Sidecars On Line 38

The Online Mini Magazine for Sidecar Enthusiasts

Sidecars On Line

Available Bi-Monthly

Issue 38 – December 2018

Channel Tunnel August 2018 A whole compartment to ourselves Sadly, forgot the football

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Contents this Issue Editorial – 2018 draws to a close. A year of some ups and some downs Motorcycles and Model Identity - “Older School” The significant use of letters to identify motorcycles and related matters Oscar's Odyssey – Fire in the South Island – Stories from members of the New Zealand Sidecar Register Kev's Hot Oven – An interesting take on a sidecar business after going riding around the world “Whatever did MAG do for Us ?” - 4 – The never ending work of the Motorcycle Action Group to protect UK motorcycling continues Sidelines – It's a Smart, Smart, Smart, Smart World The “Smart” revolution continues apace, but is it Smart ?

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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

4

Editorial 2018 has been an interesting year. The South Yorkshire Sidecar Club, of which we are members, celebrated its 60th anniversary with an annual Easter rally that proved somewhat challenging with less than favourable weather. We hardy Yorkshire types, plus equally brave souls from around the UK, plus the irrepressible Wolfgang from northern Germany (on a 125cc Peugeot scooter !) in attendance. Whilst familiar with British weather, it still made its mark. Wet and cold constantly “on the menu”, as was mud around the tents, then the icing on the cake, excuse the pun, was the final night featuring snow ! Regardless, it still proved to be an enjoyable weekend.

SidedcarPat and I escaped this latter optional extra of snow by doing a run for home, thankfully only a few miles away. The good lady had done her best against adversity irrespective of the crutches and leg support due to a broken leg bone. Bless her cotton socks this did bring a trophy, the “Hard Luck Award”. Camping can be difficult at the best of times, but the girl did well.

Three Motorcycle Action Group rallies were attended and enjoyed, as were a couple of memorable sidecar weekends. Good weather and good company enhanced these in a year when weather could be variable. Warm most of the time, but sometimes very wet. The summer trip to Belgium and Germany a little different due to the European Sidecar Rally being cancelled. A few days staying with friends in Germany offset the disappointment.

The most significant disappointment was that our attendance helping out at the Scottish Motorcycle show in April (moved due to bad weather from the traditional March weekend) was our last. Our good friend, George Beer, organiser of the Classic show hall, had decided to step down, which effectively removed our reason to be involved. Sad for us, although we spent months wondering if he might change his mind, and resurrect his team. Never mind, move on. It was a good, positive six years.

This December issue has something of a change with Oscar's Odyssey. This time our regular contributor passes on items from the New Zealand Sidecar Register's Newsletter. Another view from another outpost of our sidecar community. Grateful that we can illustrate that our mutual approach to motorcycling is widespread.

Other items featured are the use of letters is such a big part of identifying motorcycles; Kevin and Kerstin's venture into mixing their sidecar passion with catering; serious doubts about how smart “Smart” technology really is; plus the regular report on the activities and successes of the Motorcycle Action Group.

Of course, being December, we wish all our readers and anyone else involved with motorcycles, a happy Christmas and hopefully a good New Year.

SidecarJohn & SidecarPat 5

South Yorkshire Sidecar Club Annual Easter Egg Rally 2019 19th to 22nd April Once again another rally site has had to be found.

This time on the high moors above Holmfirth.

The venue is the Crow Edge Community Centre This place is clean and welcoming. However, there are no showers. So it looks like we are to have a dirty weekend.

Directions to site From Jnc. 37 of the M1 take the A628 signposted Manchester.

At the crossroads with the A616 (Flouch) Right turn on A616 signposted Huddersfield. At Crow Edge, campsite is on the right.

Postcode HD9 7TP Signs will be out to help Food will be available Price will be a bargain, at ÂŁ7.50 per unit per night Traffic dodgers can camp on the Thursday You can guarantee a great South Yorkshire welcome.

For more information, phone John Askham:- 0114 2490295

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Motorcycles and Model Identity – “Older School” A short while ago a newspaper article identified a particular language facet of our modern existence. In particular using letter abbreviations as a means of specific identification. This article reported that the UK Ministry of Defence, the MoD, had a handbook indexing abbreviations used by British and NATO armed forces that had over 370 pages (A4). The concern was that extensive use of TLAs – three letter abbreviations – hampered clear communication with the outside world. Also, it was felt that even those involved might be confused, hardly appropriate in sensitive military situations, let alone day to day.

A significant concern was using three letters for different meanings. Fine if there's no cross reference between sections and functions, but clearly prone to potential misunderstandings. For example SPS stood for “standard positioning service”, “staff and personnel support”, and “Siemens Plessey Systems”, plus several others. Some TLAs had 16 distinct meanings.

The view expressed by politicians, practitioners, and language experts was that those on the inside would be dismayed, let alone outsiders. This personally highlighted how other aspects of our developed societies used letters to convey identity, and sometimes information. Specifically, this highlighted vehicle identification and associated elements uising letters. Some being obvious, others less so.

In the UK vehicle agencies and associated elements have long been identified by letters. The Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency is commonly known as the DVLA. Indeed, many who refer to it, whilst knowing its basic function, possibly have no idea what the letters mean. DVLA has simply become a word.

MOT refers to the annual roadworthiness examination for the vast majority of powered vehicles used in public places. MOT stands for Ministry of Transport, the UK government department when the testing regime was established in 1960. Despite several department titles over the years, upto the current Department of Transport, the testing regime is still officially known as the MOT. In fact, the noun MOT features in English dictionaries.

The evolving use of shortened versions of names and phrases is maintained in many aspects of modern life, be it official, or otherwise. Texting, messaging, or whatever its called this week, has seen the emergence of abbreviated “words” to facilitate the obsessive, addictive tribes of smartphone/ mobile/ cell users.

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Technological overload didn't create the abbreviation of language. “LOL” (is it “Lots Of Laughs” or “Lots Of Love” - answers on a postcard please) might favoured by the electronic dummy generation, but the simpler past had its own communicative options.

In early 20th century conversation,. TTFN was very English for “Ta Ta For Now”. This alternative to “goodbye” could be heard in old British black and white movies.

So, what about letters and motorcycle identification ? Letter identification is not exclusive to powered two wheelers. Cars, vans, and trucks feature letters, often with numbers, and are potentially more widespread than names. Some short notations have become common across ranges of motorcycles over many years. However, not all are necessarily abbreviations, Some may be codes, others unique marketing identifiers to differentiate from a manufacturer's other models, as well as those of other manufacturers.

Letter identifiers sit alongside actual names, especially when a name has some history. In recent times the successful, re-established Triumph motorcycle company has a precious history of well known names. Bonneville, Daytona, Speed Twin, Thunderbird, Tiger, Trophy, all originated when the original company was sitting atop world motorcycling in the early and mid 20 th century. The current company still uses these names on new derivations, plus familiar letter and number notations such as T100 and T120.

Contrast the 1951 Triumph T100 and the T100 of 2018.

Some things the same, inevitable differences, but both T100s

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Triumphs, an historical, older school manufacturer have included numbers in model designations for decades. A few relate to engine capacities, although there are many examples when the size of the motor might not be so apparent. Triumph models, from the very first around 1902, feature letters, possibly indicating specific meaning, possibly a code, something less obvious, or be simply mysterious.

Over the years, Triumph, like other manufacturers, have become creative to differentiate between their products , as well as those of their rivals. Distinctive identity is vital.

Model C Model TT Model H Model SD Model R XO 2/1 2/L1 6/1 2H 3S 3SC SE 3SE 3H 5H 6S 5T 2HC TR5 TRW

6T 3TA 5TA T100A T100SS T100S T100R TR5T TR25W T100C TR6 TR6C TR7V T140W TSS T140D T140E T140 TSX TS8-1 TR65 800 XC

TR7T TR65T T140LE T140J T140AV TR7AV TSSAV TR7VS T140ES TR6 TSX8 T150V X75 T595 955i TT600 ST GT T509 955i

Another of the “older school” manufacturers, with over 100 years of history is Harley Davidson. The “company” has used letter codes extensively over many years. Although names for model ranges do feature, and are famous in their own right, not unlike Triumph's Bonneville, Daytona, Thunderbird, et al. Electra Glide, Sportster, and latterly Bad Boy and Vee Rod, are iconic names amongst fans and those of us considered as mere other motorcycle mortals, letters play a big part of the legendary status.

The list of Harley Davidson's recent model line is extensive, and traditionally daunting for even seriously enthusiastic Milwaukee afficianados. Including earlier iconic models such as Knuckleheads, Panheads, etc. would probably fill a few pages.

With this in mind here is a believed comprehensive list of HD code and the relevant models.

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FLHR FLHRCI FLHRSI FLHS FLHT FLHTC FLHTCU FLHTCUL FLHX FLHXSE FLHTCUSE FLHTCUTG FLHTK FLHTKL FLHX FLHXS FLHXXX FLTC FLTCU FLTR FLTRSE FLTRX FLST FLSTC FLSTF FLSTN FLSTSC FLSTSE FLSTSB FXSTB FXSTC FXSTD FXSTS FXSTSB FXSTSSE FXCW FXCWC FXS FXSB FXSBSE FXBR FLDE FXFB FLFB FXBB

Road King Road King Classic Road King Custom Electra Glide Sport Electra Glide Standard Electra Glide Classic Ultra Classic Electra Glide Ultra Classic Electra Glide Low Street Glide CVO Street Glide CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide Tri-Glide Electra Glide Ultra Limited Electra Glide Ultra Limited Low Street Glide Street Glide Special Street Glide Trike Rubber Mounted Dresser Classic Rubber Mounted Dresser Classic Ultra Road Glide CVO Screamin' Eagle Road Glide Road Glide Custom Softail Heritage Softail Classic Fat Boy Softail Deluxe Springer Softail Classic CVO Softail Convertible Cross Bones Night Train Softail Custom Softail Deuce Springer Softail Bad Boy CVO Softail Springer Screamin' Eagle Softail Rocker Softail Rocker Custom Softail Blackline Softail Breakout Softail CVO Breakout Breakout Deluxe Fat Bob Fat Boy Street Bob

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FLSB FLHC FXLR FLSL FXDB FXDC FXD FXDL FXDF FXDFSE FXDS-CON FXDWG FXDX FLD FXR FXRS FXRS FXRT FXRP FXRS FXS XL XLH883 XL883 XL883C XL883L XL883N XL1200 XL1200C XL1200L XL1200N XL1200R XL1200S XL1200V XL50 VRSC VRSCAW VRSCB VRSCD VRSCDX VRSCF VRSCR XG500 XG750 FLHXXX

Sport Glide Heritage Classic Low Rider Slim Dyna Street Bob Dyna Super Glide Custom Dyna Superglide Dyna Low Rider Dyna Fat Bob CVO Fat Bob Dyna Convertible Dyna Wide Glide Dyna Super Glide Sport Dyna Switchback Superglide II Low Glide FXR Sport Convertible Sport Glide Police/Defender FXR Sport Low Rider Sportster Sportster Hugger Sportster 883 Sportster 883 Custom Sportster 883 Low Sportster 883 Iron Sportster 1200 Sportster 1200 Custom Sportster 1200 Low Sportster 1200 Nightster Sportster 1200 Roadster Sportster 1200 Sport Sportster Seventy-Two Sportster 50th Anniversary Ed. V-Rod V-Rod (240mm rear tire) V-Rod Black Finish Night Rod Night Rod Special V-Rod Muscle Street Rod Street XG500 Street XG750 Street Glide Trike

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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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Fire in the South Island Recently I had recourse to send to New Zealand some “Federation of Sidecar Clubs” regalia to a certain George Mason, who originally came from Lancashire. In return George sent me one or two copies of the “Newsletter” of the New Zealand Sidecar Register. There is only one sidecar club in New Zealand and this is it.

Much of the content is centred around the “National Rally”, which is held at Easter.

However, I will relate a tale of the “Brass Monkey Rally” This rally is held in June, which in the Antipodes is very much in the middle of Winter. Here goes.

Grahame Marshall writes :-

A trip to the June 2016 Brass Monkey, turned out to be a memorable one for us.

Five brave, or is that stupid folk set out on four trusty, or not so trusty Urals for the event. Malcolm and Doris Milne, John Beardsley, Ubeer on a two wheel drive Ural, doing a ten year around the world tour, and myself, Graeme Marshall.

We all left Christchurch on Friday morning, Malcolm and Ubeer traversing the Hakataramea Pass, John and I choosing the Myers Pass. We met up again at the Kurow motor Camp that night.

Saturday dawned fine, crisp and frosty. Great South Island motorcycling weather.

Our plans had been to traverse the Danseys Pass, but our plans were thwarted with the pass being closed on account of the quantity of snow. A real bumma.

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So, where to from here?? I suggested Thomson Gorge, a 4WD track (now there’s a clue as to what kind of track it is) between Tarras and Omakau. After fuelling up at Tarras, I led the way up the track, as all good leaders do, to the top of the first hill.There we encounted a very dirty 4x4. We had a bit of a chat around whether we were being silly carrying on, ( probably a silly question), the 4x4 driver was of the opinion that if we took it easy we should be OK.

So, give that we took this complete strangers advice, we set off. Ubeer was the first casualty, getting stuck in a big hole on the first corner, underlining the fact that 2WD drive wasn’t that flash in this kind of terrain. No harm done, we just had to lift him out, and the bike. From there it was a very wet, slippery and rutted track. So it was revs on, mud flying and hanging on, trusting and hoping that we didn’t fall into some of the large ruts made by the 4WD vehicles that use the track.

We made it to the top of the last hill where Ubeer brought it to my attention that my bike was on fire.

Actual flame and smoke. Yahoo!!

Once extinguished, luckily, I was able to freewheel to the bottom where Ubeer towed me to Omakau.

A bloke passing by asked if we were having trouble, and offered to take us to his workshop to have a look at it. He did so, but pronounced the machine dead. He then offered to take me to the rally. That’s South Island hospitality for you. I left the outfit there, and we continued on to the rally, where we had a great night.

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Returning to Omakau on the Sunday, we decided to leave the outfit, remove some of John’s gear from his outfit, so that I could get home in his chair. We spent the night at Glenavey with a friendly local, before heading off for home on Monday morning. John and I returned later to pick up the outfit. What a weekend, one to remember. If all of us hadn’t fitted knobbly tyres before setting off, none of us would have made it.

As a result of the fire, most of the loom was burnt out. This was duly fixed, as I have a good mate, Ken, who set to and rewired the bike for me.

Cheers Grahame Marshall. ************ Here’s more from the N.Z.S.R. In Praise of the Third Wheel.

At least once a year, the time comes to think of many things, or so the walrus was purported to have said.

Which, to sidecarrists means the annual pilgrimage to our much vaunted gathering of like minded souls. It does sadden one to think that there are always absences of members because of any reasons and causes, but always the worst, is sickness and ill health. Also, a quiet reflection needs to be observed for those members who are no longer with us.

As time and tide, and age, inexorably march on, so does the odd age related physical ailments tending to affect our performances, especially on the longer journeys.

The aforementioned third wheel on the ground is extremely handy when fatigue and an excruciating case of searing haemorrhoids makes long hours in the saddle a mind numbing and sometimes stomach churning experience. At least one can stand up and squirm around a little, without fear of toppling over, solo fashion.

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A properly altered and set up front end does wonders for reducing the agony of arthritic wrists and shoulders. Plus, it limits the swearing and foul language brought about by the malevolence of some standard assemblies.

So, as we stand there intrepidly looking down the highway, before embarking on another adventure, nostrils flaring, nose hair blowing in the breeze, feet placed firmly apart, legs supported by magnificent columns of varicose veins, we can rest assured that these asymmetrical machines, that contravene all basics of engineering practice will see us through Oh to be different.

Mills.

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From the same publication.

Technical Tips When answering a call of nature, in order to prevent annoying splash back, pour a goodly portion of your used engine oil down the toilet bowl. This action is guaranteed to calm troubled waters.

Are you a ham fisted shaver? Use a red towel. Hey presto, no embarrassing blood stains.

Light Flick When cars have only one light working at night, they should use the emergency indicators, or flick the headlights to warn people that a car is approaching, and not a motorcycle. This is of importance on the open road, as a car with only one headlight working is hard to register the distance away.

A no brainer really. When in doubt become a flasher. What more can one say.

George Mason gave me permission to include these snippets from the “Newsletter”, which is the journal of the “New Zealand Sidecar Register” Maybe more from this corner of the world.

Oscar

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Kev's Hot Oven Setting off on a world tour has different connotations, certainly in the world of motorcycling. The mainstream might believe it all started with two celebrity blokes, one of whom happens to be a movie actor, on GS BMWs to face the trials, tribulations, and perils of circumnavigating the planet. This was really about making a television production and presumably a few bucks. Back up crews for support and undoubted numerous contacts smoothing the way for the intrepid duo.

Of course Ewan (McGregor) and Charley (Boorman) did undoubtedly have a major impact for which BMW will be eternally grateful, and KTM probably regret. The Austrian manufacturer apparently turned down the opportunity to be exposed to a worldwide, mainstream audience. It was a watchable production, which led to further, mainstream exposure of motorcycling to the masses. “Long Way” became synonymous with the celebrity pair. Purists might have questioned the credentials of it all, but it can't be argued that there were some positives beyond the razzamataz.

Kevin and Kerstin Holford, like many before them, didn't achieve sponsorship, secure media backing, or have a 4x4 equipped back up crew. They had a dream to ride an adapted airhead BMW based, off road ready sidecar outfit on a journey around the planet from their home in the small German village of Waldaubach.

They first rode through eastern Europe and Asia, notably south east Asia and Indonesia, then on to Australia and New Zealand.

Nothing was about fleeting glimpses and a tick box mentality of, “been there, done it, got the T shirt”.

Uppermost was contact with people and cultures.

In due course Kevin and Kerstin headed for South America, their outfit on a merchant ship, the pair by air to Chile. Their journey north continued from Ushuaia at the far southern end of South America.

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The trip had more than its fair share of negatives, predominantly with bike problems, not surprising with the rigours of travelling vast distances, and often on hostile terrain. There's no autobahn option when travelling the world in such a way. Estimate suggests well in excess of 100,000 miles covered in the 3½ years. Sadly, the adventure ended prematurely. Central and North America, plus Africa didn't feature due to a combination of issues. Bike breakdowns, health problems, and financial, conspired to bring the dream to a close. However, nothing could undermine what these guys achieved. So many unbelievable experiences of things seen, cultures experienced first hand, and meeting some incredible people.

Returning home has required significant adaptation after over three years exposure to different values, traditions, and other peoples' approach to life. Experiencing food and hospitality willingly offered to themselves, complete strangers, by people who have so little, had a significant effect upon Kevin and Kerstin. The insights and knowledge gained have probably been both influential, and life changing.

So, what do you do when you return to the so called orderly life styles of a first world country such as Germany ? Just like their big adventure of circumnavigating the globe, adapt. The potential drudgery of traditional employment, coupled with someone else dictating what, how, and where you do it, was no longer appropriate for this couple. Linking the established motorcycle and sidecar passion with what had been learned in many places where they had spent time, was seen as a way forward.

The added ingredient ? Food, in particular, “Street Food” !

The result is Kev and Kerstin establishing a somewhat unique approach to food catering; “KEV'S HOT STOVE - GERMANY'S FASTEST CURRYWURST” Quoting https://www.kevsheisserofen.de, “If you are looking for a very special party event catering, then this is just the thing for you. Kev's hot oven is Germany's most original snack and not only at bikers' parties . . . .”

“Germany's first motorcycle snack • extremely mobile - whether on a meadow, a yard, grass, pavement, tar; there is room for us everywhere • Self-sufficient - the snack bar has gas-powered appliances and its own hot water supply • Quality goods from the butcher, we can offer everything that can be barbecued or fried • fast and flexible, we are quickly set up and dismantled, the customer determines the menu” 18

f

you are looking “If you are looking for very special party event catering, then this is just the thing for you.

Kev's hot oven is Germany's most original snack and not only at bikers' parties . . .

If you are looking for a very special party event catering, then this is just the thing for you.�

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Bob Spendlove Arts

Bob's Commission Paintings Bob paints a wide variety of commission pieces, including vehicles, houses, landscapes and monuments. If you're interested in having your own personalised original painting.

Contact Bob for more details go to - http://www.bobspendlovearts.co.uk/ Examples of his work;

If you contact Bob for information, please acknowledge Sidecars On Line 20

“Whatever did MAG Do for Us ?” - 4 The Motorcycle Action Group, MAG UK, continues to act on behalf of all motorcyclists, including non members, in the constant struggle to defend UK motorcycling. As ever, the following press releases do not reflect the sum total of MAG activity. In fact they only represent part.

No apologies for reporting on motorcycles being accepted as solutions for traffic congestion and air quality issues. The initial press releases identify MAG concerns over a lengthy period in respect of bureaucratic resistance to rational, objective argument. However, a terrier like, dogged mentality has proved to achieve results with positive signs of cooperation from Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London.

The following are further examples of MAG activity in recent months. Read on; 22nd October 2018 - MAG welcomes further CAZ exemptions for motorcycles On 16th October 2018 Bath & North East Somerset Council launched a six-week consultation on proposals to charge drivers of higher-emission vehicles, including cars, £9 per day to drive within Bath city centre. In the wake of MAG’s victory in Birmingham, the Bath & North East Somerset Council is proposing, from the outset, to exempt all motorcycles and mopeds from the scheme.

Commenting on the proposals, Councillor Bob Goodman, cabinet member for development and neighbourhoods, said: “Like many councils up and down the country we have to address NO2 levels which are harmful to people’s health, and we’re being told by the Government do to that in the shortest possible time.”

Councillor Mark Shelford, Cabinet member for Transport & Environment, added: “The council has looked carefully at other options, such as not charging higher emission cars, but technical analysis shows this would not be guaranteed to sufficiently reduce NO2 in the time available.”

Director of Campaigns & Political Engagement for the Motorcycle Action Group, Colin Brown, said: “We are delighted that there is a trend developing that clearly shows a growing understanding of the facts that we have promoted consistently on this issue.

Motorcycles are not part of the problem – far from it. The emissions footprint of this economical form of transport is, and always has been, far superior to that for even cleaner modern cars on a mile-for-mile basis. The Euro emissions standards for motorcycles were introduced far later than for the car industry but, despite this fact, commuting on a motorcycle is still more environmentally friendly because they don’t sit idling in queues of traffic.

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It is time that this inescapable logic is recognised in the capital. The Mayor of London and TfL need to wake up and listen to reason. It is not too late for them to get with the programme and announce their own exemption for motorcycles.”

The consultation for the Bath CAZ runs until 26th November 2018. MAG urges all riders to respond in support of the proposal to exempt motorcycles and mopeds from the Bath Clean Air Zone charges.

30th October 2018 - MAG calls for a consistent approach to bus lane access The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has published a report this week detailing the national picture on powered two wheeler (PTW) access to bus lanes. The report demonstrates an inconsistent and patchwork approach to access that inevitably leads to confusion, mistakes and, ultimately, increased risk for riders.

Motorcyclists first saw access to bus lanes being granted in the mid 1990’s following pressure from MAG and other riders’ rights groups demanding the safety benefit of being allowed access. National blanket permission, however, has never been an option due to the fact that the decision to allow or deny access is taken by local transport authorities. Startling revelations, however, show that there is inconsistency even between sections of bus lanes in single authorities, as campaigners fight for access to be granted one bus lane at a time.

In London, the Easy Rider Report produced by the Greater London Authority (GLA) Transport Committee in 2016 highlighted the need for a consistent approach across all London Boroughs stating “the failure to convince many London boroughs to [allow PTW access to bus lanes] has created confusion and inconsistency. It is time TfL finished what it started seven years ago, and secured motorcyclist access to all bus lanes.”

The MAG report highlights inconsistencies such as single routes in the West Midlands that change access rights two or three times along a single route, and situations in Wales where riders from one city – at the time not allowing access - had failed their motorcycle test in a neighbouring city that did allow access, for not using bus lanes during their test.

Author of the report, Director of Campaigns & Political Engagement, Colin Brown, sums up: “The rules of the road need to be consistent if you want users to remain safe. Can you imagine the chaos on our roads if you had to check a sign at every roundabout to see if you should go clockwise or anti-clockwise? The safety benefit for motorcyclists is not being maximised due to a lack of common sense and consistency, and it is high time that this issue is addressed. We are calling for the Department for Transport to review its guidance for local transport authorities to make PTW access to bus lanes the default position. We understand that local authorities may need to restrict access in certain unusual situations, but the need to have the same argument for access with every bus lane is, in my view, bordering on criminally insane. Riders deserve better.

Motorcycles are a legal mode of transport and as such, their riders are entitled to expect that measures be taken to improve their safety.”

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15Th November 2018 - MAG asks: Clean Air Zones - logic or tragic?

The Motorcycle Action Group claims modal shift to motorcycles reduces congestion and pollution in the UK. MAG’s guidance document clearly shows the evidence - in a manner that hasn’t been challenged by ANY audience so far. What do YOU think?

Director of Campaigns & Political Engagement, Colin Brown, said; “It is reassuring that, beyond the capital, we’re winning the logical argument to exempt motorcycles of all ages from any toxic tax charging schemes. This fight is leaving London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, increasingly isolated in his incomprehensible resolve to push through this socially regressivepolicy in the form of the proposed Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). MAG is determined to convince councils to make the promotion of modal shift to motorcycles part of their solution to improve air quality. By contrast, London’s policy is a tragic and embarrassing mistake which, unfortunately, seems to come simply from an inability to actually understand the evidence.”

“It is not rocket science,” adds Colin. “Figures available to all councils clearly show the current stock of cars produce more NO2 per mile than motorcycles have EVER produced. And the emissions gap between cars and motorcycles isn’t closing. Anyone can see that riders filtering PAST queues on motorcycles rather than sitting IN queues of cars reduces congestion - and therefore pollution. I met the Joint Air Quality Unit and Transport for London, neither of whom have arguments to disprove this simple logic. It seems the only reason they aren’t promoting motorbikes - when their obsession with bicycles is clear – is prejudice. That prevents all of society from benefiting from the potential gains of shifting from four wheels to two, whether or not the two wheeler happens to have an engine. Khan has simply got to welcome bikers as an asset and not damn us as a problem.”

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30th November 2018 - MAG meets Mayor Khan: and it’s good news The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has held a long-awaited meeting with Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. The result of the exchange gives room for optimism amongst the motorcycling community.

‘It’s been a long time coming, but it was worth the wait,’ said MAG’s London Regional Rep, Tim Fawthrop, following MAG’s visit to Mayor Khan at the Greater London Authority’s headquarters in City Hall, on 27 th November 2018. The meeting was the result of months of lobbying, and the hugely helpful intervention of Greater London Authority Assembly Member Keith Prince AM, who secured and attended the meeting.

Lembit Öpik and Colin Brown from MAG’s Political Unit were also present.

‘We covered two items,’ continues Tim. ‘One was bus lanes and the other was the threat to charge bikers in the Ultra-Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ Charge) if their motorbikes are beyond a certain age. MAG argues that this is unfair because bikes reduce congestion and pollution and make no measurable contribution to London’s emissions. I suggested that we should find a way to exempt those bikes that can be shown to have very low emissions, and the Mayor agreed to allow us to explore this further with his staff, which is a good outcome.’

The discussion on bus lanes was even more encouraging. Mr Prince, who organised the meeting, said: ‘Mr Khan agreed that motorcycles should be allowed into bus lanes.

He assured us that all the so-called Red Routes in London, which are directly under TfL’s control, would remain open to bikes. He also said he’ll work with MAG to encourage the London Boroughs to open their routes up too. I’m glad to see the Mayor honour the promise he made on this matter.’

Next, MAG will meet the relevant officers to explore the best way to progress both matters. Lembit adds ‘It’s a credit to the Mayor that the meeting was not just a boxticking exercise, but a real chance to talk about our ideas and suggestions. It leaves me optimistic about Mr Khan’s attitude towards biking now, and I’m happy to say so.’

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Motorcycling is constantly under threat. Bureaucrats have a tendency to justify their existence by imposing restrictions and legislation that undermines motorcycling activity.

Too often such moves have been made without objective evidence, or justification. The threat to motorcycling is very real.

Without coherent, organised, and experienced voices to defend, protect, and promote motorcycling, motorcyclists old and new, plus involved business interests could be denied the benefits of motorcycling.

The need to protect motorcycle riders' rights and freedom hasd never been more important.

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SideLines It's a Smart, Smart, Smart, Smart World Alfred E. Neuman smiled from the cover of the American “Mad” magazine back in the 1950s, although apparently this fictitious character had been invented sometime before.

“Mad” was about humour for adults. Following the early boyhood comics of the time, be they the cartoon “Beano” and “Dandy”, there was an age related step up to iconic titles such as the Eagle comic.

In UK terms, a first school level of Dennis the Menace, Lord Snooty, Desperate Dan, and other little kid heros, then onwards and upwards to secondary themes like Dan Dare Pilot of the Future, PC (Police Constable)49, plus factual features. The renowned technical illustrations, which appeared in the “Eagle” centre pages taught a whole generation of boys about machinery, inventions, transport, and systems. Girls had their own companion title of the “Girl” comic.

“Mad” magazine appeared on this young teenager's reading habits around the time when a post school life is being imagined. Radical, possibly slightly rebel, but it was also something that older guys read. Rights of passage and all that. “Mad” is still available via subscription. Satire is still apparent, hardly difficult in the world today.

With “Mad” in mind, it being the close of another year, inspired a focus on the current UK obsession to make our world “Smart”. It is acknowledged our little island on the eastern side of the Atlantic isn't alone in this desire to be “Smart”.

A personal interest in questioning the wisdom of digital/technical responses to problems has been the UK's so called “Smart Motorways”. Originally conceived as “Managed Motorways”, these are monitored roads with cameras, sensors, variable speed limits, and some redesign. However, some bureaucratic bright spark decided on the “Smart” title, and predictably, politicians went along with it. Suppose they thought it was trendy, modern, with it, or, as a long shot, possibly a good idea !

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SideLines The significant, most controversial amendment was the elimination of the hard shoulder, the traditionally nearside emergency lane. From the first UK motorway opened in 1958 to the present day, this key feature was adopted for vehicle breakdowns; tyre punctures; other failures; for law enforcement to detain law breakers; and a vital throughway for emergency vehicles to get to those in need of assistance.

The case for getting rid of the hard shoulder was based upon claims that congestion would be minimised by the “creation” of an additional lane, i.e. more road space for vehicles.

The Highways Agency emphasised an “extra lane” benefit, whilst losing the continuous hard shoulder was compensated by creating Emergency Refuge Areas (ERA) at intervals.

Irrespective of any possible benefits of the “extra lane”, the fact is that wherever “Smart Motorways” have been established, where traffic volumes are high, junctions and connecting roads remain the same. Metaphorically, the motorway “funnel” may be larger with four lanes instead of three, and the slip road may be increased from one to two lanes, but the “outlet” is unchanged. Resulting in chaos and then in need of another “solution” despite, for example, Highway Agency claims of “success”, just 10 days after opening one local stretch of “Smart Motorway”.

Serious concerns regarding the UK's “Smart Motorways” were expressed before the lengthy, costly construction of amendments, mostly relating to the safety aspects. Observations by citizens were sometimes supported by those with significant knowledge of the day to day practicalities, e.g. South Yorkshire Police. All to no avail.

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SideLines In December 2018, the statistical evidence of increased danger, and little, if any of the promised benefits, have led to public criticism from politicians, police, and those involved on a daily basis with the negative consequences of “Smart Motorways”. @@@@@@@@@@@@@@ There's much to be said for advances in digital technology, particularly if proved to be beneficial. Yet, as is becoming increasingly apparent, the constant race to produce the next billionaire making idea, object, or system, can be seriously flawed.

Disruption, inconvenience, and disappointment are as commonplace as benefits. When adopting new digital technology, sometimes it's worth waiting for bugs to be ironed out before joining the “must have” techno freaks. However, sometimes even this doesn't guarantee being safe from the problems that befall people on a daily basis when devices, systems, and safeguards fail.

As this is written, a drone has brought chaos to a major UK airport. Inconvenience, financial losses for business and many thousands of passengers. There is also an awareness of the serious downsides of what to some is a toy, some a valuable business tool, but others as a weapon. This is a tale that has yet develop.

What about closer to home and the “Smart” revolutions in your living space ? Smart meters are massively promoted for every UK home against a backdrop of public mistrust. This nationwide scheme's major selling point in a mass media barrage is the supposed savings to be made by watching power consumption in real time. In effect, keeping an eye on what energy is consumed supposedly results in a degree of control.

Problem is that knowing what energy is being used might initiate turning off vital equipment such as heating in cold weather. A more significant issue is the possibility of outside control and access to private homes and sensitive information.

Of great concern is the unreliability of “Smart” devices. In a broader sense, the idea of a centrally controlled “Smart Meter” might be beneficial for meter reading to determine charges, but serious savings are unlikely. After all, profit conscious energy supply companies are hardly going to be if everyone actually reduces consumption.

They will simply increase the price per unit. Less will become more.

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SideLines

We had a “Smart” heating control system installed around a year ago. A central wireless control with smart radiator valves in individual rooms. Claims of significant energy and money savings attracted. Setting temperatures in rooms, plus a smartphone app turn off heating when away from the house, suggested savings could be achieved. Online connection provides a degree of monitoring and software upgrade.

Fine tuning optimising performance and economy, all at the touch of a button.

To date the system has promised much, but recurring problems highlight there's some way to go before we start to recoup the outlay, let alone trust the system to function trouble free and actually do what it said on the tin by saving energy and therefore money. The frustrations continue, as does the regular contact with the company involved. The theory is undoubtedly “Smart”, but the practice is another matter altogether.

Be it the social adoption of “Smart” on motorways, or the home based variety such as our heating control devices, there needs to be some serious consideration about the excess speed in which “Smart” is being promoted in our society and personal lives. At present, there are truly more questions than answers.

A final thought regarding who actually runs the whole show that is 2018 going into 2019 ? Maybe it's those who control the manufacture and supply of BATTERIES !

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