Sidecars on line 21

The Online Mini Magazine for Sidecar Enthusiasts

Sidecars On Line

Available Bi-Monthly

Issue 21 – February 2016

Suzuki Outfit in the Sun at the European Sidecar Rally 2015

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Contents this Issue Editorial – Falling over at Christmas, no alcohol, no bike, on foot !

A Message from Kerstin & Kevin – Sidecar world tour couple taking stock of their adventure Batteries Part 2 – The Science of Charging – Further look at battery technology from a personal perspective Oscar's Odyssey – A Tale of Wales and Our Good Friends, Dave & Christine Copping – Recollections of good times spent with very close friends Driverless Vehicles Revisited – Motorcycles ? – Do you want to travel with a robot in the driving seat ?

SideLines – Causes and Cycling – Are cyclists and motorised vehicles a good mix ?

On the Web – The good, the bad and the ugly of the internet Pinterest an Interesting Social Tool – An attractive aspect of social media from a sidecar perspective Disclaimer The information contained in this publication is for general information only. Whilst we try to keep information up to date and correct, we make no representations of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the publication, or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the publication for any purpose.

Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this publication.

Through this publication you may be able to link to websites. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.

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If you contact Anson Classic for information, or to make a purchase, please acknowledge Sidecars On Line

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Editorial Christmas came and it was over, well not precisely. It's always reported after the Yuletide festivities that there are undesirable left overs such as hefty credit card bills to be paid. Folk may have put on weight and enjoyed indulgence, whilst in complete contrast the wallet may well have become seriously underweight. For us, a less than jolly consequence of over hit finances is to be avoided, but not guaranteed.

However, Christmas Day 2015 had its own downside that took a while to diminish in terms of negative effects.

It is important to stress that no alcohol played any part in what follows, hand on wallet. Christmas Day was happily spent at our daughter's home. Food, opening presents, some silliness, a generally happy day. Come 5 pm the plan was for the elders (we two) to spend the evening with our son's family just 10 minutes drive away.

Out of the door into the winter darkness with no lighting to assist the few steps to the car. The fall over a garden feature whilst approaching the driver's door seemed in slow motion. With bags in one hand the fall ended by landing hard on the right shoulder. The slight rain, wet ground, and inability to move was a strange sensation, especially as it was so dark the the missus couldn't see me.

The daughter, her partner, and the lady wife somehow got me back into the house.

Suffice to say that an ambulance ride to Accident and Emergency for an old geyser on Christmas Day isn't on any bucket list, as weren't the various tablets, drip, and medical prodding that ensued. A 1966 motorcycle related collar bone break that healed with an overlap didn't make diagnosis easy, but it eventually was determined no breakages, but internal bruising.

Daily life routines were consequently affected for a while afterwards, in itself really no big deal, even if it took a couple of weeks to get realistic movement in the right arm and shoulder. However, and this was the serious issue, finishing some jobs on the Vmax outfit that had already been started were delayed. Unpleasant weather due to repeated UK storms, seemingly more significant since weather professionals started to give them names, kept me out of the garage. Cold can be dealt with clothing wise, but damaging gales and incessant rain was another story.

However, some different stuff in this issue. As this issue was being completed, the sad news that good friend, Doug Bingham, Mr Sidecar as he was known in the USA, has passed away as a result of cancer. Despite the distance between Yorkshire and Southern California, Doug was a dear friend. Will reflect on our friendship soon.

SidecarJohn & SidecarPat

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South Yorkshire Sidecar Club

th​ th​ Easter Egg Rally 2016. 25​ ­28​ . March

Once again, we are at Burghwallis, at the splendid “Squirrel Wood” scout camp.

The campsite is set in over 70 acres of woodland, not far from Barnsdale Bar on the A.1.

This year, as last year, a dedicated part of the site will be for camper vans/caravans. This will be of a hard standing, and much closer to the clubroom amenities. This should suit everyone.

Direction signs will be in place from Barnsdale Bar on the A1 and on the A19 just North of Doncaster All the usual amenities are there. Toilets, showers, large meeting room with central heating. plus numerous barbecue plots.

Camping fees for this year have been slightly revised. They will now be, £6.00 per person , per night children under 16 years of age will be free, on condition that they are none smokers & none alcohol drinkers The kitchen will once again be in full use, morning and evening.

Any queries, contact Liz Hague on 01226 790725 or John Askham on 0114 2490295 p.s. Come Thursday and avoid the traffic. Meeting room open.

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A Message from Kerstin and Kevin Our friends' home is in the small village of Waldebauch in Germany, east of Bonn. We first met at the European Sidecar Rally (EGT) in 2010, then after meeting again at the 2011 event, returned to their home for a few very pleasant days. Even at the first meeting Kerstin and Kevin talked about their plan to travel on a lengthy sidecar trip, which developed into being a little more than lengthy.

They set off for their world adventure in July 2013 on Liza, their BMW airhead outfit, travelled east through Europe into Asia and beyond. The route took in Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Russia, Mongolia, China, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Bali, East Timor, Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, and lately South America.

Kevin and Kerstin – World travellers fulfilling a dream

Many places, countless people, mechanical woes, and despite all these components of a fantastic adventure, time to produce a detailed account of the whole experience at; http://www.kk-chaostours.com/english/blog-english/ This has meant being able to keep up with their journey, all wonderfully enhanced by hundreds, or possibly thousands of great images.

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Kerstin, Kevin, and Liza

The most significant factor for our friends has probably been problems with their BMW. No doubt some issues were inevitable, especially considering the nature of the routes taken with predictable stresses and strains. Billiard smooth roads have been very rare. However, it cannot have been easy dealing with repetitive woes, both mechanical and electrical, more so when being brought down with an emotional bump from the clear, joyous highs of the trip.

Thankfully, problems were resolved en route, sometimes easily, and some requiring a little patience and resolve. The feeling from the ongoing account of the trip was that someone would always turn up to assist and encourage. Help from strangers must have been uplifting and no doubt appreciated by Kerstin and Kevin as their outlook is to our minds sociable, friendly, and appreciative.

In the latter part of 2015 Kerstin and Kevin didn't keep up with their regularly visited blog, which for us, it must be confessed, created some concern. I guess this concern was not just for ourselves, but shared with other friends and family in varying degrees. The last online blog posting of 25th October 2015 being the last entry in February 2016, at least as this is written in February 2016. However, a sense of relief ensued with receipt of the following email sent from Chile in December 2015, gratefully forwarded to us by mutual friends in Tasmania.

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“Dear friends, The year goes towards its end at an alarming rate of knots- it is time to sit back a few minutes, take stock and also look forward ....

Last year at this time we were with our good friends Paul and Kerry in Tasmania. We where finally able do some overdue work, on the motorcycle, the equipment and our blog with a lot of help from our friends.

From here we went up and along the east coast ofm Australia, constantly zig-zagging between the coast and the Great Dividing Range until we reached Townsville from where we aheaded inland to Alice Springs and then through the Red Centre and the middle of the country back to Sydney, from where we packed Liza in a big box and shipped her to South America. On the way we have met incredible people and after a total of 35000 km in and around Australia, we found it quite difficult to leave the country - our initial culture shock had died down and we got to understand and admire the place. Still we could not really imagine living here, but some of our best memories come from this continent, both in terms of people as well as flora and fauna.

From here we flew to New Zealand, where we spent time with Rebecca, Mark and their children, who also provided us with a car, which we drove almost 14,000 kilometers across the two islands. For the first time since being on the road we have the feeling to be in a country where we could also live. New Zealand still seems to be a place of opportunity where one can build a new life for oneself and it's full of natural beauty and pioneering spirit. While we are on one side happy to be traveling by car as this year New Zealand has an exceptionally long, cold and wet winter, but after 2½ months, we can't wait to get our bike back - we look forward to the next leg of the journey , On October 14, we arrive in a brand new world. Our vocabulary is limited to ordering two beers and rarely it is possible to get by with English. Once again we have to adjust to a completely new and different way of life.

After a 10 day wait, we are reunited with Liza and we are raring to get on the road.

Quickly, we discover that our bike has once again not particularly coped well with the shipping.There are major problems with the engine and now we have to fight with an additional difficulty, the language. Then we find that Chile and Argentina are proving to be very expensive countries and also for the first time since we are on the road we have to constantly fight with flat tires. Hunting for spare parts for motorcycle and worn equipment is really hard a problem that starts wearing down our nerves at times.

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While we try not to rush past all the beautiful places at the same time we need to travel quickly because our travel budget melts away while human and material fatigue really start to bother us. The longest stay in one place since we are on the road was in Tasmania at the beginning of 2015 and the travel speed and distances have been getting bigger in the last six months. It is increasingly clear that we are indeed on the way home, because our budget will bring us no further than South America. Nevertheless, we try to do this continent justice, the chance to come here again is small and we are not quite ready to give up.

We have mastered almost all the hurdles along the way and in addition we are proud that in spite of all obstacles such as language, repairs, most of which we actually are able to do ourselves now, we managed to see the whales in the bays of Valdez peninsula; braved the storms of Patagonia; admired the rugged beauty of Torres del Paine; the incredible Perito Moreno glacier; and we made it to the end of the world!

It has not always looked like we would get as far as we have been doing. Whatever the New Year may bring for us, we have seen and experienced more over the last 2½ years than we could have dreamed of. We thought this trip would be good, it has been ten times better!

We are incredibly grateful towards people we met along the way who showered us with help plus friendship, and we are sure we will continue to meet even more of them. We thank everyone at home who follow our journey and have encouraged us to keep going . Our families have supported us by standing by us and are caring for all our affairs back home, and without whom nothing of this would have been possible.

We are grateful for what we were able to see and do and we still have not reached our limits even with all the difficulties we had to master. Although we are sad that we cannot finish our initially planned trip we also look forward to reach our home harbour at the end of the long journey. Next Christmas we will probably be back home and then we look forward to repaying many of the special people who we met by being able to shower them with the same hospitality that we were given.

We wish you all a wonderful 2016 full of surprises, joy, health and look forward to seeing you all again Kerstin and Kevin�

Hopefully, Kerstin and Kevin will resume their blog soon, so their continuing adventure can be followed as they venture through the Americas and onward.

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As always, if you have any questions, feel free to call us or email us via our website. http://www.apexsportsinc.com If you contact Apex Sports for information, or to make a purchase, please acknowledge Sidecars On Line.

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Batteries – Part 2 The Science of Charging The new breed of batteries that have emerged over the past decade, plus the electronic wizardry now associated with motorcycling, has influenced the technology of keeping a battery healthy. No longer is it about simply attaching a mains power transformer as when 6 volt electrics increased to 12 volts and battery construction was mainly universal.

Modern battery chargers are said to be “intelligent” and cycle through electronically determined routines that assess, discharge, and then charge. What was once a simple charger featuring a switch for 6 or 12 volt charging may now be referred to as a “battery tender”, and even be very specific to certain types of batteries.

In addition, the electronic revolution calls for differing requirements, and additional demands beyond much more than the simple ignition, basic lighting, and a horn featured on what is now considered “classic” machinery. Sensors, braking, warning and safety systems, plus modern additions such as entertainment (radio, music players), intercoms, gps navigation, phones, heated clothing, and a plethora of functions associated with the Engine Control Unit (ECU). Motorcycle electrics could be considered “black magic” in the past, but now is akin to “serious sorcery”.

An old battery charger still resides somewhere in the depths of the garage. It clangs when connected to a battery and turned on. A circular ammeter and a switch to change from 6 to 12 volt are the only adornments. The variable is that the ammeter reading on the 4 amp maximum instrument falls as a battery charges, assuming the battery is capable of being charged. Not a silicon chip in sight, or within. This charger did sterling service for many years keeping batteries up to scratch, or proving that they were as dead as Monty Python's Norwegian blue parrot.

Then, along came our first Opimate “smart” battery charger in the mid 1990s. Still referred to as a charger, this was promoted as a battery analyser that could automatically adjust the charge to compensate for condition, even recover a battery that might otherwise been deemed as defunct. A significant, yet simple feature was the provision of special connection leads that meant the battery could stay on the motorcycle with no need to remove.

That first Optimate did a great job, especially it could be used on almost any battery.

Car batteries, leisure batteries, the Optimate was a universal device. In time, the product description changed somewhat and the Optimate, plus similar rivals were viewed as battery tenders, which could be connected to the motorcycle battery whilst it sat unused. Along with many others the routine was to park the outfit in the garage and automatically connect the Optimate lead.

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In due course an Optimate 3 was purchased. Maintaining the “bike in use's” battery permanently connected justified other batteries being dealt with easily by another purchase. However, and out of the blue, the original Opimate simply stopped working.

No warning, it simply failed to power up. The situation became puzzling when a few weeks later the newer Optimate 3 gave up the ghost following being connected up to the BMW outfit. Whilst not wishing to perpetuate stories about planned obsolescence, or mysterious silicon chip time bugs, it did seem rather strange that the two Optimates packed in within such a brief time.

In selecting a replacement it became clear that the market had changed from a single model being sold on the basis that any battery could be connected. Our original Optimate was purchased because it had no apparent limitations. Indeed, the originals had successfully charged various battery sizes and types be they car, motorcycle, or leisure with no issues, unless the eventual failures might suggest otherwise.

Standard acid, or gel, both 12 and 6 volt, all could be connected. Some batteries were effectively “recovered” and reused despite an old conventional battery charger failing to resurrect. For sure, money was saved by investing in th original Optimate.

One fully charged car battery remained in the garage when a starting boost might be required, say in the winter time.

After a few years of reliable, multi purpose use, it seemed that the technology had changed of “smart” battery chargers, or should this be “intelligent”, or similar terminology. What emerged was specific specifications for the size and types of batteries to be charged. No more all embracing, but focused such that latterly charger suppliers request the application by asking for the motorcycle you have in mind. The new breed means a wider range of options to cover varying needs.

So, the outcome was purchasing a new Optimate with bikes alone in mind, which of course covered the range of motorcycle battery sizes applicable to us.

Another so called “intelligent” battery charger was purchased at a budget price for other, usually car applications.

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Budget “smart” charger, ideal for car and batteries other than those on our two bikes

An issue arose later concerning the use of the new breed of chargers, I guess based upon experiences, plus information presumed gained over the years by the battery industry and users. I had previously used the older Optimates as many had done, i.e. connect the charger permanently to the motorcycles standing in the garage, the battery “tender” process. The Optimates were habitually connected all the time.

However, having had issues with the BMW expensive gel battery, essentially losing its charge despite the connection of the Optimate. The advice provided from trusted sources highlighted that the new breed of batteries were possibly negatively affected by being constantly connected. Loss of charge became a problem that justified fitting a battery isolator switch. Sadly, the battery had already suffered, so a new battery was required.

Unfortunately, at the time I felt that the battery itself was at fault, so resumed the constant connection of the Optimate. In no time there appeared to be issues, so the battery supplier was contacted for advice. It quickly became apparent, following guidance, that the new gel battery was OK, but that using the Optimate as before was not a good idea due to the way so called “smart” chargers functioned.

Experience has shown that the best routine being to connect the Optimate if the outfit had been stood for a number of weeks, then only connecting up to refresh the battery just prior to a journey. This has worked admirably and on lengthier trips when the outfit is used frequently there have been no battery issues.

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A Tale of Wales & Our Good Friends, Dave & Christine Copping Regular readers of the Odyssey may well recall my mentioning the sad demise of our good friends Dave and Chris. However, in 1984, the year of their passing, together we had probably the best holiday that we have had.

Dave and Chris joined the South Yorkshire Sidecar Club, sometime in 1982. As sometimes is the case, it took a while to get to know them properly. However, by the time of the Federation of Sidecar Clubs' annual rally in 1983 we were firm friends.

Part of the plans for our camping programme for 1984, was doing the “Red Rose” camping weekend which was to be held at a site on the A497, just outside Criccieth in North Wales. We intended to make this camping weekend a part of our annual holiday, the Red Rose camping weekend would be in the middle of our stay.

The journey from our home in Sheffield to Wales was never to be forgotten by my kids. Part of the trip was the climb from Buxton, over the “Cat & Fiddle” route to Congleton. The weather was absolutely foul. Thunder and lightning with torrential downpourings of rain accompanied us most of the way. So heavy was the rain, that we had to stop, as visibility was almost zero. At one point of the trip, I noticed the spout of our tea-pot poking out of the sliding window of the Palma, emptying rain water that was leaking through the cover.

At this point, I must state that the sidecar had earlier that year been widened. A glass fibre roof had been fashioned, but as the tea-pot proved, it needed more work.

It could have been worse, I could have been sat in the sidecar (poor joke).

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As soon as we got onto the Cheshire Plain the weather improved. Out came the sun, which was to stay sunny for the rest of our ten days in Wales.

On arriving at the camp site, needless to say being mid-week we had the field to ourselves, we pitched our tents close to the edge of the field, directly adjacent to a part of a large stream that had been dammed. The stream here was about 5 feet deep in the middle. Just right for swimming, and for me my early morning ablutions.

The shower facilities for this campsite were over the main road, and not very reliable.

We had two glorious days here, doing not much more than sunning & swimming.

Come Friday and the field started to fill. An early arrival was a workmate of mine, who also had a 750 Honda with Monza. He had the choice of all of the field, which was the size of 3 football pitches, to pitch his tent, but he had to pitch it directly in front of ours. While not exactly spoiling the view from our tents, he more than obscured it.

An amusing incident involving my friend, I will call him Rupert, so as not to embarrass him should he read this. One day a week or so, before the camping trip, he visited our home. I was out, so in conversation with my wife Ann, he said to her, “What do you think about leaving it all behind ?” This put Ann into a flat spin. “How do you mean ?”, said she, thinking that Rupert was propositioning her. “Well”, said Rupert, “When you are camping, and you want to go out and about, what do you do when you have to leave all of your camping gear behind.” Relieved by the explanation, Ann told Rupert that you just had to trust people in cases like this.

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Rupert stayed with us all the rest of our stay. Every morning, as we looked out of our tent, there he was, gently puffing away on his pipe, sitting on his camp chair with his shirt, tie, jumper and coat on. His first words every day were “I think it might rain today” Then, when we went out on a ride or walk, Rupert would manhandle his trailer into his tent. Then he would zip it all up and proceed to put a padlock through all of the zips, therefore making sure that when he left it all behind it would be there when he returned.

This kind of carry on wasn’t lost on our kids. Even now they often mention Rupert when we are reminiscing about our trip. However, despite Rupert being the butt of our joking, he was a real good workmate and friend. He was also generous to a fault.

When he decided to pack up with motorcycling, he gave me his Honda. Good bloke, or what ?

Visiting the station at LlanfairPG - the longest place name in Britain

Well, I have digressed, where was I ? Yes, the field quickly filled up and many of the regular campers were there. This being just a camping weekend, there were no organised activities. We did not mind in the least as there were lots of places to visit.

This we did. We visited many of the places on the coast, usually lounging about on the beach. Abersoch, Nefyn, Criccieth, Harlech and the Blackrock sands. We gave them all a crack.

I remember as we rode onto the Blackrock sands, a warden of some kind barred our way, telling us that no motorcycles were allowed on the beach, as they caused a mess tearing around. When I pointed out that there were more than one or two cars doing exactly that as he was telling me. No way was he to change his stance, so we just rode around him and went onto the beach, telling him to report us if he so wished. Nothing more was heard of the incident from this “jobsworth”.

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Our club group by the Menai Straits, Anglesey

Every day we rode to one of the dozens of places that are within a few miles radius of the camp. Christine, Dave’s wife always rode pillion, and she always had on her very brief shorts. The weather was that good. Also, every evening, we would have a camp fire going, where we would have roast spuds, toast and marshmallows which the kids just loved. Also, a few beers made the night perfect.

Visiting the station at Llanfair PG (for short) - Britain's longest place name

My son Steve bought himself a polystyrene surfboard. This was in use every day.

Also, Steve never noticed that of all the places that we visited, none had any amusement arcades. All of our fun was had on the beaches. Good friends, good weather, good times. You can’t ask for more.

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Later on that year, I remember travelling together down to the annual FED rally in Gloucestershire. Both sidecar rigs were as usual, carrying a family and towing a camping trailer.

Our rigs were the same as on theWelsh trip, my Honda F2 with widened Watsonian Palma, and Dave’s Honda CX 500 with Saluki.

The weather was great all weekend, and we visited the Roman Baths in Bath, and Tintern Abbey. On the wall in our home, is a photo that was taken at Symons Yat. Along with us on the pic, there is Dave & Chris.

After the FED weekend, we rode home together, only parting as we turned off the M1 at junction 34, all waving to each other as we went down the slip road. None of us realising that we would never see them again. I won’t go into the details of what happened next. If you need to know, I did go into details in volume 8 of “Sidecars on Line”.

I do remember at Dave and Chris' funeral, I speaking to Chris’ mother. She told me that the time in North Wales was Chris' best holiday experience. When I gave her copies of the photos that I had taken of the Welsh trip she was more than pleased to have this last piece of remembrance of Chris and Dave.

Members of the FED stood up to be counted by donating lots of cash to help with the support for the two children that were orphaned on that fateful day in 1984. Two sidecar clubs that were in the act of folding, gave up their entire bank accounts to the fund. Numerous other clubs also donated sizeable amounts.

Nowadays, Ann and I often reminisce about Dave and Chris, always with a smile.

Please enjoy the photos of the wonderful trip to Wales.

Oscar

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If you contact Hedingham Sidecars for information, or to make a purchase, please acknowledge Sidecars On Line 20

Driverless Vehicles Revisited - Motorcycles ?

In the last issue of “Sidelines”, the consideration was a personal assessment of the advances in so called driverless cars, or put another way, autonomous vehicles. This was backed up by well publicised news, plus more secretive endeavours by established vehicle manufacturers and entrepeneurs, of the development of so called driverless cars. The closing comment questioned the idea, or potential of an autonomous motorcycle.

Ultimately, autonomous vehicles probably have to be considered in a very different way to what might otherwise seen as “traditional”. First question has to be, who actually requires the driverless option as a form of personal transport ? At what point does driving become, or is seen as a chore instead of a pleasure ? Does pleasure actually enter into the equation on increasingly congested, and technologically controlled road systems ? Are public roads becoming increasingly unsafe to the extent that human vehicle operators cannot be trusted ?

Recent pronouncements from bureaucrats and politicians suggest that “driver error” is at play for 95% of Road Traffic Incidents (RTI, “I” having replaced “A” for Accidents). Does the “safety” of robotic control solve the problem ? Perhaps considering the current situation requires some thought about what modern automobiles and powered two wheelers are all about.

Autonomous vehicles have been extensively tested in controlled situations, i.e. not on public roads, for some years, usually in what might be seen as ideal conditions. The goal to “prove” the technology worked tending to mean that anything that might produce negative results would be eliminated, even disregarded. As time went on the accomplishments would be fed into the public domain, more so by companies keen to gain publicity and credit.

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The prime mover is probably a subsidiary of Google, they of internet search engine fame, who happen to have a few billion dollars in the bank. Not that established vehicle manufacturers haven't provided eye catching glimpses of their interpretations of autonomous vehicles. However, these manufacturers have likely been diverted, and more conscious of, taking the “green” route with electric, hybrid, and hydrogen cells, as alternatives to that nasty fossil fuel stuff.

In time, probably with the developments by Google, public roads had to enter into the evaluation cycle, not just off road test situations. California state authorities gave approval to use public highways for further evaluation, which in turn was also granted to other developers. In the very sunshine state, technical progress has apparently been rapidly made, although some changes have resulted from the state identifying issues. Collisions with other, human driven vehicles, and questions of safety have led to the California and federal authorities considering basic controls – steering, braking and acceleration should problems arise with the autonomous capabilities. This has led to further consideration of philosophical issues.

For example, should an autonomous car be operated if no one in the car can actually drive ? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the USA has very recently stated, “If no human occupant of the vehicle can actually drive the vehicle, it is more reasonable to identify the ‘driver’ as whatever (as opposed to whoever) is doing the driving.” This thinking suggests that the preference might be that humans should not be able to assume control because that is deemed to present negative safety issues. Simply put, is this supporting and condoning robot control over that of human ? Jokes about, “Haven't these people seen the Terminator movies ?”

What is at issue other than the development of the technology and the expected emergence of autonomous cars ? Are these vehicles simply personal versions of public transport, controlled by computers in every sense. No human variables, and no sense of involvement other than declaring where you wish to travel. Over 100 years of motoring pleasure, petrolhead enthusiasm, and possibly a lifelong involvement in the familiar selling points of owning, using, working on, maintaining, even constructing a particular vehicle. On the other hand, some might prefer to let the vehicle be in control, allowing occupants to spend even more time on their smartphones, tablets, computers, etc.

So, what of the motorcycle in this autonomous vehicle revolution ? Well, first of all there are the subtle differenecs that affect the operation of a powered two wheeler, not least of all being its control and dynamics. A motorcycle leans and direction determined on a level plane controlled by a rider movement and minimal handlebar movement. Control inputs and outputs of steering, brakes, and accelaration are unlike those involved with a four wheeler.

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The external triggers relayed by sensors to the “brain” of a robotic system will differ from those used in any autonomous control. Importantly, a major attraction in a powered two wheeler usually goes beyond the mere benefit of transport from point A and B. The thrill of riding and rider control is a serious motivator within the two wheel concept. Perhaps only shared with those driving the classic, exotic and unusual in the car world.

Nevertheless, robotics have entered the powered two wheel arena. News in recent times is that Yamaha have created a robotic motorcycle. MotoBot has been developed to test rider safety and support systems.

How this test vehicle is a sign of things to come is open to conjecture, but could identify developments in applications as yet to be determined.

Perhaps MotoGP is destined to be a robotic showpiece, which isn't technically unreasonable considering the fact that this and other motorsports are predominantly held on closed tracks with predictable, fixed positions, and layout. Not a personal choice, but who can say what the future holds.

Despite technical wizardry such as ABS (antilock brakes), traction control, lean angle sensors, and variable mapping within the ECU (electronic control unit) changing bike performance according to road and weather conditions, opposition remains. Such electronic controls are viewed by some as anything ranging from “interfering with rider control” to “pointless”, “costly”, and “questionable”. However, there are times when non fittment is viewed as undesirable. Early misgivings about ABS have all but disappeared, probably desirable as in some markets ABS is now required on new models of all sizes, not just elite performance machines.

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It could be that the autonomous motorcycle will not materialise, but the mood of a developing terchnology in the four wheel world suggests some computer controlled cars are not far off appearing. For a time it would have to be accepted that it would take many years before human controlled cars would be the undouted norm. So, it will evenmtually be interesting to see how road users of all descriptions will deal with the transition period. Who knows, maybe motorcycles would become the last bastion of human input and the sense of being mpoved by being moved.

Evidence of the progress of autonomous cars has highlighted that the unforseen could just become a stumbling block. Apparently, the robotic systems of sensors and cameras have improved dramatically on the predictable test roads of California. Then along came a bit of snow, or to possibly be more accurate, testing moved elsewhere.

Points that sensors and cameras require to satisfactorily assist vehicle control being covered by snow and ice has presented difficulties. Could mist and fog be another negative factor that will seriously influence progress, unless of course you live and work in Silicon Valley ?

Early in 2016 Ford Motor Company claimed they were successfully addressing the problems associated with bad weather. Like all such things in the development of a radically different technology, only time will tell how significant this will be. The bottom line might ultimately down to as yet unforseen issues rather than what we might forecast.

Self control , or What ?

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SideLines Causes and Cycling There's always a danger in becoming neurotic about political proposals that affect your particular lifestyle and outlook on life. Be it a campaigner to change planning laws, oppose the European Union, defend badgers, or oppose free access to guns, these and other causes can encourage a sense that someone is being being victimised.

Sometimes evidence shows that some of like can gain wider publicity for their causes and with it notable support even from folk who are not “members” of the group. Some causes do, rightly or wrongly, capture the broader imagination. Cycling in the UK does appear to be one such cause with repeated publicity specifically to encourage use.

Crucially in the case of cycling, this regularly involves condemning other road users for the downsides. Weaknesses, or misinformation in the pro cycling case are rarely recognised. Simply put, it is not politically correct to identify downsides to the promotion of cycling.

A clear cause for concern is the blurring the image between cycling as a form of travel, specifically commuting, and cycling as a sport/ hobby. The predominant commuting case is presented as being environmentally friendly, economic, and a solution for all the negatives about normal road use. Congestion and air pollution are the favoured evils depicted. These are seen as worthy of limiting and controlled, not in itself a bad thing. True, the commuting cyclist is not, per se, to blame for pollution and congestion. However, the attitude that accompanies the cycle “cause” can be arrogance personified when it comes to several issues.

Much of the promotion of cycling in recent years has been dominated by sporting success and major events such as the London Olympics, stages of the Tour de France, notably in Yorkshire, and follow up cycling events to Le Tour with professional road races attempting to live off the 2014 success.

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SideLines This has had the effect of raising profiles, some of it possibly positive in tourism terms, and for a time a blip in popularity beyond the serious cycling community.

Unfortunately, some of the cycling sport fraternity have somewhat let the whole thing go to their heads and assumed an even more arrogant approach in claiming public highways as their own.

Near to our home in Yorkshire there are parts of the route taken by the Tour de France in 2014, which have predictably become targets for enthusiasts to ride, some local cyclists and some from afar. Parts of the route, involving a particular climb, have been used for closed road cycle races for some years, hence the original inclusion in a Tour stage.

Amongst the regular cycle riders of the local route are members of a local cycling club, who gather on the edge of Huddersfield to ride to Holmfirth on the Tour route.

This occurs on a midweek evening during the evening commuting period on what is a busy, single carriageway road.

Witnessing the Tour de France spectacle, be it at the side of the road, or on television, riding through this part of Yorkshire on a sunny summer day would attest to the winding, relatively narrow width of the road. Indeed, local regular users are very familiar with the twists, turns, junctions, parked vehicles, frequent road works, and other features. A few might possibly appreciate the potential risks. Add to all this the dark of night, some street lighting, a distinct chance of wet roads, and lines of powered traffic – cars, trucks, buses.

The cycling club in question, which is not commuting, but on a leisure ride in group formation, maybe three wide. Some are equipped with front and rear facing lights, but not all. As far as can be ascertained there has been no serious incident involving this “peloton”, not yet. However, the chance of a serious incident looks to be just a matter of when, not if.

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SideLines These cyclists are totally dependent upon the lottery of patient drivers, nothing in the road that could cause just one to fall with devastating consequences because of the close order they ride. After all, even the racing pros crash in daylight on closed roads usually as adjacent riders come together, but sometimes due to outside influences. Wind, debris, a rampant dog, or dramatically, a pedestrian.

Whilst those commuting by pedal cycle have every right to travel on public roads, it would be expected that they ride in a manner and with an attitude that recognises there are other road users. This would seem reasonable for both harmony and self preservation. The sad truth is that many road users are either uncaring, ignorant, or arrogant, even a combination of all these. Too many UK road users are seemingly accidents waiting to happen, including cyclists. A pedal cyclist is very vulnerable, even more so, it can be argued, than someone astride a powered two wheeler.

Unfortunately, the positive, well represented view of cycling is now accepted as being paramount, so that cyclists can do no wrong, and any incident is the fault of others.

It is verging on being sacriledge to propose that something unfortunate occuring, be it injury, or something more serious, can be down to the cyclist's fault. Someone, or something is apparently to blame. Has cycling become sacrosanct ?

Finally, just to show personal views are shared by others, part of an article from a UK national newspaper's website;

“A cyclist outraged by the bad behaviour of his fellow bikers has captured their dangerous moves on camera and created a montage of the incidents which include jumping red lights, cutting up motorists and using mobile phones while pedalling.

The man, who wishes to remain anonymous for fear of backlash from other cyclists, has spent the last three weeks filming the footage in York city centre and has posted it on the internet to highlight the misdemeanors.

The most startling incident shows a cyclist going head-over-heels on a main road when he attempts to take off his jacket while on the move.�

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Martello Sidecars – 30th year Gathering* Social Meeting to mark the 30odd years since manufacture.

- in association with the ‘The West Hythe Aschmann Cologne’

All past, present & prospective owners and friends of Martello Sidecars are invited to a free social gathering* on Saturday 14th May 2016 from 10:00hrs at the campsite, The Rose and Crown Public House#, Stelling Minnis, Nr Canterbury, Kent, CT4 6AS, (7 miles south on B2068 Stone Street Rd). Tel 01227 709265.

Besides the unique collection of Martello sidecars on display, we will be issuing a free disc of the ‘Martello sidecar story’ to all Martello owners with their sidecars on display and having a run out to visit the original workshop location where your sidecar was built (inc a stop over afterwards at the WW1 Folkestone Harbour Railway Stn).

In addition, we are in the process of arranging appearances by ‘Moby Dick’ (Cliff Days sidecar) – the new ‘son’ of Moby Dick - the original Martello glamour girl - the 30oz special (the last Martello) and Adrian who helped build each sidecar at Martello Plastics.

For further info please email Steve Lancaster on steven_lancaster@yahoo.com or call 07583860591 #Overnight camping available on-site for a minimal fee of £5 per tent per night – please book and pay direct via the Rose and Crown, good food and excellent service provided with basic campsite facilities * Please note that this is not intended to be in the first instance an organised rally as such, but a social event in support of Martello owners, hopefully to gauge the ‘support, demand, type and content’ for future functions.

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The internet, otherwise known as the World Wide Web, or here in Yorkshire, “t'internet”, sometimes “t'interweb”, continues to be a major feature of everyday life. Even if you have no involement, or even desire to embrace the technology of it all, the fact is that the whole thing is having a significant effect on your life. Human existence is now, for good and ill, basically dominated by the power of the cyber space revolution.

Undoubtedly there are benefits, but sadly, as with all revolutions, there are downsides. Crucially, the downsides can be serious in there widespread effect. It's one thing to be irate about the speed of connection, “it takes ages to download a movie”, or “it affects my business”, but totally another when online abuse and threats come to the fore. Images of brutal human decapitation and threats of mass killing are less welcome as the evil underbelly of the internet. The so called “Dark Net”, poisons minds, and perpetuates human conflict.

The casual acceptance of the technical wonders of modern day living means there are now generations, who hardly, if at all, know alternatives to mobile phones, social media, and music that doesn't come in a solid, handleable form. The culture of changing a mobile/cell, i.e. smartphone annually, and paying a large monthly fee to make claimed “free calls and texts”is now well and truly embedded in the social psyche. The puzzle of watching blockbuster, widescreen, action movies on a tiny screen is a conundrum. As for conducting financial matters, ordering takeaway food deliveries, and still driving the car/truck/bus, let's not go there.

Cyber space is overwhelming, if you let it be so. However, there are still aspects that can be satisfying in a different sort of way, which brings me to what follows, that is, if you are interested, of should it be, “Pinterested” ?

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An Interesting Social Tool Personal visits to the internet usually concentrate on a few things. Emails most frequently, as this represents almost 100% of personal written communications. It is now very rare to use so called “snail” mail services. However, the convenience and speed of email does not preclude sometimes writing lengthy dialogue, be it for personal business, or contact with friends and associates around the world.

The ability to electronically dispatch images, as well as the written word is a compelling argument for electronic mail. Attaching other computer files and reference information is also part of what really is a very good deal. The benefit of quick responses cannot be underestimated, and the progress that can consequently be achieved.

Other personal uses of computer technology include purchasing online, be it for direct delivery, plus ordering for collection from a store, or from a designated collection point. The simple ploy of being sure that an item is available to collect, or being able to track an item due to be delivered is now taken for granted. Truly useful, although am not oblivious to the profound impact on traditional retailing operations.

Paying bills and being able to submit meter readings for utilities, i.e. gas and electricity are now taken for granted. Banking, whilst there is a need for care with security, helps keep an eye on income and expenditure, plus saves on visits to the bank branch.

So, what of the other “must dos” when the computer, or tablet is turned on ?

Checking world news and sport favourites is inevitable, but more than anything is keeping tuned into the world of motorcycling, including sidecars. Whilst our particular three wheel obsession (yes it is), might not take up too much of the internet's mega capacity, or necessarily compare with other people's interests, it is surprising what can be found. Internet searches for information and knowledge over a number of years led to finding what has become an established part of the routine.

The only downside to searching (Googling) for “sidecars” is that the description has been hijacked for other, unrelated things. Amongst our “brand” identifier, which was surely clear cut and understood by even non believers, is now used for a myriad of equally unrelated things. Cocktails, financial products and descriptors, small bars and restaurants, plus baby cribs. It's a mess, but not a spoiler once you get a grip.

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“Pinterest is a visual discovery tool that you can use to find ideas for all of your projects and interests”, which is what this useful website is all about. Not only does it help enhance the personal sidecar passion, it contains large quantities of material that can be entertaining, informative, and enjoyable. The material in question is imagery of all sorts, notably photographic.

It can be used as a personal storage area for images that are of personal interest, or more broadly. It can be said to identify someone's tastes and interests, even if they are perceived by others as odd, or worse. Personally, it's viewed as a storage place to return to for another look at something of interest that would otherwise have been fleeting, maybe never to be seen again. On an other level there is a sense of trying to casually spread the word about sidecars.

Pinterest is a source of some amazing stuff, but it also offers the opprtunity to create your own “Pin” boards to highlight your particular tastes.

Searching is easy as it follows a similar approach to search engines, notably Google.

Once signed up, and personal preferences identified, email notifications will point towards topics and boards that might interest.

Personal interests of motorcycles, sidecars, and anything that might loosely fall under the category “petrol head”, begin to arrive in the email inbox. These notifications suggest boards that might be simply interesting, which can be ignored, or, as is sometimes the case, followed up. Nothing wrong with broadening your outlook on a diverse world.

Eventually, personal “Pin” boards were started, initially under the titles of “SidecarJohn”, “SidecarJohn Too”, then “SidecarJohn Solos”. More recently a “SidecarJohn Technical” followed. These boards mean that images (Pins) of interest on other peoples' boards can be “pinned” (copied to) on personal boards. Some people have extensive collections of images of varying degrees of interest, some of it fascinating. You might think you've seen everything to do with your two, or three wheel passion, so be prepared to be surprised.

Inevitably, there are images of no interest, even considered poor in some respect, but as with motorcycling, as a whole, or aspects, not everything pleases everybody.

Variety, after all is the spice of life. In relation to this, a confession about the current thinking with my personal boards.

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No Urals ! Why ? Well, according to so much of what is out there in the media of any description, the only sidecar outfit in the known universe are the products from Irbit, Russia. Patently, this is far from the true story. It's not that there's any personal hatred, dislike, or some other “ism” involved, it's just that there is far more to the sidecar world, so no perceived harm in broadening the missionary sidecar approach. Besides, my Pinterest boards are mine !

Pinterest also provides an uploading possibility, which allows your own images to be uploaded for the world to see, and so further expands the total number of accessible images.

Whilst Pinterest is widely viewed as yet another aspect of social media, which normally, in FarceBook, Twattle, and several other incarnations are personally unattractive. The attraction of inane dialogue and pictures of what someone ate for lunch, massively repetitive commentary such as “look at us having a good time, aren't you jealous”, or inane online postings to somehow prove to the world you have a life, hardly appeals. As for the consequences of “posting” material that causes serious problems for the person responsible, or others, well . . . . no comment.

Pinterest provides a vehicle to keep those images gathered by others, plus part of the personal collection considered memorable, personal photos from several decades that encapsulate our major interest, plus with little effort casually informing others about sidecars. Providing information and insight of our brand of motorcycling might just stimulate a more serious, even involved interest in the world of sidecars. You never know.

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A popular feature is that images can be placed online very easily, and so provide the capacity to stimulate interest on an ongoing basis. Certainly, the experience so far is that there always fresh images never seen before, as well as others which are capable of providing positive feelings, even, can it be said, of subjects other than those where wheels and engines prevail.

If you haven't already done so, maybe it's time for you to take a look at

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