first time rider

[MrGrumpy]

As you are just doing your CBT, I presume you will be looking for a 125.
If you are doing some commuting along seriously fast roads like the A3, then you will need a relatively powerful 125, to give you some chance of not being a mobile chicane (assuming the traffic isn't jammed solid in those parts). And of course headwinds will affect you greatly at speed on a 125 - easily take 10mph off your top speed.
So you need to check specs to get a scoot with as close to the max 15bhp allowed. The S-wing is a decent choice, though the Xmax has only 12bhp which is OK, but you could do with more. A lot of the cheaper 125s only have around 8bhp, which will make getting above 50 tricky. When I was toying with a 125, the Peugeot CityStar struck me as a good deal - 15bhp, decent luggage capacity, reasonably priced. The Satelis is also good, but pricier. If you are commuting in winter, something with decent weather protection is also going to be a good idea.

[luandablue]

.... but be careful, there is an earlier FES called the Pantheon

Cheeky git.

[Bluebottle]

Thought I'd get away with that while you were still in Africa

Not really
Nothing wrong with the Pantheon, just trying to avoid any confusion

[dogfood09]

Well...passed my CBT today now to go looking for a S-Wing....or maybe a X Max

[Bluebottle]

Congratulations and good luck with the search

[dogfood09]

Congratulations and good luck with the search

Thanks...had amazing fun doing it

[dogfood09]

I have decided to go for the honda s-wing and this is the one I have my eye on...what do you guys think?,is there anything I should be aware of as I've never brought a bike before? Going for the one above which is close to me for £1990

[poldark]

Well done, good choice with the SWing too.

I'm sure previous/current owners will comment soon, but I'm certainly not aware of any weaknesses or known issues so just look at general things really.

Any marks/scratches, how much tyre tread depth left, any weeping oil around front fork seals - any of which would help negotiate the price down. Also check the service booklet is suitably stamped up as required for the mileage. How long until next service, if one is imminent (or overdue) get money knocked off to cover it.

[dogfood09]

Thanks I shall look at that when I go see the bike...anyone know of a decent bike insurance company to go with...sorry this is all new for me

[Miseryguts]

Congrats on passing your CBT and your choice of scoot.
Should there have been a link to it in your last post, so we can all see it.