Web tug june 2013 by Nigel Barton

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982 Registered

Charity Number 1107703

The Committee Chairman & Group Contact

Nigel Barton

nbarton@eamg.org.uk

Secretary/ Vice Chairman

Roger Wardley

rwardley@eamg.org.uk

Teri Olley

tolley@eamg.org.uk

John Tullett

jtullett@eamg.org.uk

Graham Simpkins

webmaster@eamg.org.uk

Laura Windram

lwindram@eamg.org.uk tug@eamg.org.uk pscott@eamg.org.uk

Treasurer & Membership Secretary Observer Co-ordinator Webmaster Magazine Editor Events Manager General

Paul Scott Jill Winn

jwinn@eamg.org.uk

Committee & Regalia Keith Boyles General Committee General Committee & Twitter Moderator

kboyles@eamg.org.uk

Anthony Greenwood

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Welcome!

Dear Members

Chairman’s Piece

Just got back from a rather pleasant bimble which involved a visit to Tollesbury marina and Paper mill lock, the sun was shining , the countryside is filling out with greenery and the leathers were on for the first time this year :) Had to get back and finish this little book in the afternoon though and sadly its looking a bit thin this month, where is everybody? Surely some of you have been out and about and could write some sort of ride report or are you all to busy tweeting and poking each other! Actually there has been that little content you could write about anything , I’ll take mechanical tips, washing instructions, directions to nice roads, cooking tips and recipes, honestly anything will do JUST SEND ME SOMETHING …. I am the editor not the author, you guys are the authors !!!!

John Tullett

Ride Report

Diary (Pull Out)

Membership Form (Pull Out)

The Rospa Test

Slow Riding

Details on Full member training

Argh glad I let that out… Be careful out there and ride safe

The deadline for the August TUG is the 26th July

Laura

What’s happening next? Log into www.eamg.org.uk, then Runs and Rides Forum And follow us on Twitter.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Well at last the weather seems to have brightened up a bit, although the temperatures are below average for this time of year at present. We have been very lucky with the weather over the last two bank holidays and I hope you have all made good use of your bikes during the lovely weather. Unfortunately for us (Laura and myself) we are sitting indoors at the PC’s Laura editing TUG and me writing a couple of ditty’s for her to use as unfortunately we have not had any content from the members for this edition other than from John Tullett ( thanks John :) ) So here we go Chairman’s rant: The committee and observers give up a lot of their free time to provide the fantastic training organisation we are all members of, they also try to make the social side of the group as interesting as possible, but remember without the members input and ideas, without the odd article for TUG the social side falls flat on its arse! With around 160 members and 6 editions of TUG a year, if we all wrote one article and our editor put two articles in each edition of TUG we would have enough material for 13 years!!! Is it much of an ask for you all too get writing? Don’t worry if your spelling or grammar is crap just look at mine its awful but so what. Just a short report on a good bit of kit you have bought, a ride out, a trip abroad anything!! On a lighter note please all join me in congratulating Alan Burke on passing his observer test recently. Well done Alan, having completed the test myself I know just how much time, effort and hard work is required to achieve the standard we at EAMG require of our observers. Jim Moore has just passed his assessment for training as an observer and I look forward to presenting him with his certificate when he passes his test.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

It is with regret that I have to announce Roger Wardley is standing down as the group secretary as of this July. Firstly may I thank you Roger on behalf of the group for all of the hard work over the years. This of course leaves us in a muddle, so if you have some spare time and could attend committee meetings on the last Thursday in the month and would like to give something back to the group then please contact either myself or Roger. I am sure Roger is willing to have a chat with anybody that would like to know what is involved before coming forward. I do have someone in mind but he is being a little shy currently and very bashful considering he is intelligent, witty and would fit in well on the committee. I was not going to mention his name because I would not want any members lobbying him or just giving him some gentle words of encouragement but BUGGER IT Mike Hamilton would be a great secretary wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t he? Safe Riding Nigel Barton

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Membership Report Dear Members, Current numbers are good considering the grey start we have had to this year but there are still some of you that haven’t renewed, come on pull your socks up the sun will come out eventually…. The Membership fees have not been increased for 2013. Membership forms are downloadable from the clubs website or are in the centre of the TUG.

Membership

Number

Full

120

Associate

Social

Life

Total

168

Fees for 2013

•

New Associate Members £55.00

•

Associate Member Renewal £45.00

•

Full Member Renewal £25.00

•

Socials Member £25.00 FMT £20.00 (For more information on Full Member Training see page 54)

•

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Member - Alan Burke Date - 17th April 2013 Test Passed - EAMG Observer Senior Observer - John Tullett Examiner - Richard Parker

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

When filling in your membership form please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to fill in the gift aid form too, it is an extremely important source of income which

Regalia is now available to order please see Jill Winn for more details

all helps towards training associates and full members :)

A lot of people can't understand how we came to have an oil shortage in this country. Well, there's a very simple answer. ~~~ Nobody bothered to check the oil. ~~~ We just didn't know we were getting low. ~~~ The reason for that is purely geographical. ~~~ Our OIL is located in the North Sea

Our DIPSTICKS are located in Westminster ! Thanks to Ian Hunter

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Responses to

The next

tug@eamg.org.uk or

deadline

get in to the forum at

for TUG is the 26th July 2013

www.eamg.org.uk Please ask for my address if you’d rather post me your article

T hi s hum bl e l i t t l e m a g a z i ne co st s qui t e a l o t t o pro du ce a nd po st , so w o ul d a l l m e m be rs ca re f ul l y co nsi de r w he t he r t he y re a l l y ne e d t o re ce i ve a co py i n t he po st . I f yo u co l l e ct T U G a t g ro up ni g ht pl e a se m a ke sure t ha t yo u ha ve t i cke d t he f o rm a t t he do o r so w e kno w yo u’ve ha d o ne . I f yo u use t he o nl i ne ve rs i o ns a g a i n pl e a se m a ke i t kno w n o n yo ur m e m be rshi p f o rm . I t ’s a l so w o rt h co nsi de ri ng g e t t i ng a f ri e nd t o co l l e ct yo ur co py f ro m g ro up ni g ht a nd pa ssi ng i t o n. A ny sa vi ng s w e ca n m a ke w i l l be a hug e he l p t o t he g ro up, t ha nk yo u.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Observer News – Congratulations to Alan Burke who recently passed his Observer test and Jim Moore who passed his initial assessment to become a Trainee Observer. Observer Seminar – A successful Observer Seminar was held on 21st April, with 17 Observers in attendance and a wide range of topics covered. Particular thanks are due to Phil Jones who organised the event, provided us with access to a superb venue and supplied the tea & biscuits. Associate Group Training (AGT) – Things are definitely looking up on the training front with 7 Associates attending the April AGT and 13 plus 1 guest in May. If you are a new Associate please try to attend the June AGT where you will be able to complete the New Associate Training Process (NATP) – comprising of a presentation followed by an introductory observed ride – which is a prerequisite to being allocated to your own 1-to-1 observer. Associate Social Rides – Richard Parker and Jill Winn organised some very popular social rides for Associates in 2012. Two more rides are presently planned for 2013 on 22nd June and 20th July. These are both Saturday afternoon rides of around 100-120 miles to start at 14:00. Full details will be posted nearer the time, so keep the dates free and check the Message Board for more information.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Slow Riding Day – Our first slow riding event will take place at the Ford Dunton Research Centre on Sunday 16th June. The Committee has agreed an increase in the attendance fee to £5 for this year, to help us cover our costs on the day. In my view this still represents very good value, especially when compared to the fees charged by other groups. If you are interested in attending please let me know, to help ensure we have sufficient numbers of Observers on the day (not least because we will also be covering the Boys Toys event at Hylands House).

Promoting EAMG – We are now booked to attend the Boys Toys event at Hylands House on 16th June and the Museum of Power’s Bikemeet on 4th August. If you are able to assist on either or both of these dates please ensure you register your interest with any Committee member. It would be great if we could get at least 6 bikes at our stand for both days to help attract visitors.

Bikesafe-London – To celebrate their 10th anniversary Bikesafe-London are reducing the cost of the Rider Skills Day courses from £45 to the 2003 rate of £25. To take advantage of this limited offer you need to book via www.bikesafelondon.co.uk or call on 08444 151 206 by 6th September. Those who register before this date will also be given the chance to enter a competition to win a BMW off-road skills course.

Should any members have any training related queries then please contact me via e-mail jtullett@eamg.org.uk or send me a PM via the Message Board.

John Tullett

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

WWW.PROSPEEDPERFORMANCE.CO.UK BURNHAM MOTORCYCLE CENTRE UNIT 5 BURNHAM BUSINESS PARK SPRINGFIELD ROAD BURNHAM ON CROUCH CM0 8TE

01621 782 742 prospeedperformance@hotmail.co.uk A NEW MOTORCYCLE SERVICE CENTRE CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT THE TOP OF THE ‘BURNHAM BENDS’. WE CARRY OUT SERVICING AND REPAIRS TO ALL TYPES OF MOTORCYCLE. OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: ALL MAKES OF TYRES SUPPLIED AND FITTED. WE SPECIALISE IN ‘RIDE IN RIDE OUT’ SINGLE SIDED, NO PROBLEM! WE USE THE INDUSTRY STANDARD ‘HAWEKA PRO BIKE II’ BALANCING SYSTEM ALSO, INNOVATIVE BALANCING BY ‘DYNA BEADS’ SUPPLIED AND FITTED SERVICING

OPENING HOURS

MONDAY-SAT 08.00—17.30 SUNDAYS

REPAIRS

10.00—15.00

LATE NIGHT THURSDAYS TO 19.30

PAINTWORK

CLOSED TUESDAYS PARTS Early drop off—late collection No problem! NUMBER PLATES (all types)

Collection and delivery available Our cafe will be opening in the spring and our location would make an ideal ‘meet up’ venue for ride outs etc. Come and enjoy a coffee and a bacon sandwich whilst we work on your bike! No parking restrictions and a large designated block paved motorcycle parking area. We are a Biker 2 Biker company and treat every bike as if it is our own

01621 782 742 prospeedperformance@hotmail.co.uk We look forward to seeing you soon!!!

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

“If you have a crash and it wasn’t your fault we can manage your claim free of charge. That means we will represent you and communicate with your insurance company, the at-fault insurance company, your repairer and, most importantly, YOU to resolve liability in your favour and manage your claim until your bike is back with you, fully repaired. In the unfortunate event that a bike is damaged, bikers may not be aware that once their insurer is notified, the insurer will arrange for their approved repairer to collect their bike. This may not be ideal for a number of reasons, that’s why Ridemaster will work with your chosen local repairer where they know you and know your bikes’ history. Call Ridemaster first and we’ll take the pain out of a bad day.”

RIDEMASTER PO BOX 859 Aylesbury Bucks. HP22 9FJ T: 0844 888 0999 F: 0844 888 4190

www.ridemaster.co.uk

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Andy Pawsey pictured here is our new associate representative, he will be the voice of the associates. So if you would like to voice an opinion, ask some questions or give us some feedback good or bad then Andy is there for you. You can always speak to an observer or committee member but we appreciate that when you are new to the group its difficult to work out who’s who, hopefully Andy will be someone you will already recognise or if not will come to soon. If you don’t see him at group night or out on a ride his email is a.pawsey@gmail.com

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

As John mentioned earlier Mays AGT was well attended as you can see by the row of bikes pictured, the most I have seen for a while, thanks to Andrew James for the snap. Jill Winnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first on scene presentation was very informative and a good reminder of how helpful the talks at AGTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are for all members. Also seeing Jill strap CPR doll Annie to the pillion seat of her tiger and take her on an observed ride was well worth the visit !

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

EAMG Members are you looking to renew your bike, car or household insurance? If so why not try Carole Nash, you maybe able to earn the group a donation. Please use the number below and quote the reference number

0800 083 4422 Quote Ref 1460

Motorcycle Courier Rapid collection and delivery of urgent packages and documents to anywhere in the UK

•

Professional, bespoke service available 24/7

•

Immediate, no obligation quote

If you can’t afford a helicopter 2b Transport is the next best thing!! www.2btransport.com ALL MAJOR CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS ACCEPTED

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

MOTORCYCLE TYRES AND TUBES RIDE IN RIDE OUT FITTED FREE

Car and Van Tyres

All Makes — All Sizes Vintage Road

Classic

Modern

OffRoad

Race

AUTOSAFE GROUP 1ST CALL TYRESAVE—BIKERS MOTORCYCLES –ASG Tel: 01621 856 888 Email: autosafegroup@btconnect.com

Autosafe Group—MOT Classes 1-2-3-4- 5-7

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Graham & Lynn Child’s Bude Trip 2013 Well at last our first weekend away on the bikes, the long winter has made the waiting for our trip seem to go on forever but eventually the morning had arrived. We loaded up the bikes and set off to meet the others at the Dartford crossing services, we were the last to arrive at the allotted meeting place to find six cheery faces waiting, Graham & Lynn, Jim & Lesley Tyler, Phillip Hawkes and Phillip Cousins (PJ). Laura filled up with fuel and after a chat we set off Graham leading and myself tail ending. There were two other members of the group meeting us in Bude, they had travelled by a longer route and had left the day before, they were doing a Jaque’s whistle stop tour of every town and place of interest between Essex and Cornwall, viewed from the hill that is just outside of all towns, pictures taken they jump on the bikes and move on with another tick in the ‘Visited’ box. A sight for sore eyes Kermit the lime green Millennium Falcon followed up by the little BMW twin ridden by Speedo Dave AKA ‘Scampi Dave’ like Batman and Robin they charge around the countryside sharing a plate of food and a coke with two straws as they go.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

As the journey was in the order of 260 miles we used the M25 and M3 to get some miles under our belt before our first stop, then the roads became more interesting. After a few comfort breaks, fuel and lunch we arrived in Bude around about five that evening. The weather had been very pleasant all of the way. The Surf Haven guest house is nicely situated within an easy walk of the town and beach and was very comfortable and great value for money. PJ was staying a couple of doors up at another guest house which was very interesting, the patron being the local faith healer offering the laying on of hands at a very reasonable cost, we never did find out if PJ partook of any ‘extra’s’ but he did arrive for breakfast at Surf Haven every morning with a lovely glowing complexion and a cheeky little grin. We were all so glad Phil Hawkes had joined us, a gentleman with some brilliant ideas on travelling light whilst motorcycling! A small plastic tube with screw top is used to keep spare bike keys and change in. A good idea but were does one put the room key when we go out for the day on the bikes? The answer is we do not know, but I will say it was a bloody safe place because it was never found! We had returned to our lodgings that evening for Phil to realise he had misplaced his room key and as an extra bit of bad luck our land lady was out for the evening, so while we were all having a shower and dressing up for the evening out on the town, poor old Phil sat

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

around in his leathers. And yes he had to spend the evening in his leathers! A very interesting time was had that evening and upon returning to our digs Graham, Jim and I spent 30 minutes or so trying to beat the security measures on Phil’s room door to no avail and the sofa in the lounge was his bed for the night and yes still in his leathers. Just by luck he heard the dog barking at around 2 in the morning and he was duly issued with another room key. More on Phil’s good ideas later. Over the weekend we visited some lovely places one that was very interesting was Boscastle, a beautiful village and a must to visit if you are ever in Cornwall. The floods that we all watched on our TV’s are depicted in the tourists centre and the footage on video is amazing. To stand in the street next to this tiny little river and to imagine this torrent of water running down the valley while you look up at the high water mark on the buildings is truly amazing and brings on a strange emotional feeling. It is some years after the flood and you would not know it had ever happened, other than a very modern footbridge crossing the river where the original had once been before being swept away by the water. The river can also be recommended for testing motorcycle boots for water tightness as demonstrated by Graham and myself. (see pics) To summarise what a great weekend with great roads, some not to PJ’s liking, mind you they where tiny with a good brazillion of grass up the middle, some very tight turns on steep hills off camber with gravel to boot not ideal for 157 BHP R1!!!! PJ is looking into doing the Paris Dakar now on the R1. All joking aside PJ you did very well I would not have wanted to ride down those little roads on your bike at least where I was sat I could see over some of the hedges. Oh back to the weekend, beautiful places visited, great food, lots of beer and of course the best of company what more can you ask for? So sadly on the Tuesday morning we all loaded up for the ride home Batman and Robin left a little before the main group as they had missed one major town on the way down… Portsmouth! Jaque said it would only take half an hour to see the sights so off they went. The rest of us took a leisurely ride home, a reciprocal course of the ride down 5 days earlier. Now this is where the natty little key / change pot comes in to play...... A planned stop for lunch we all sat in glorious sunshine eating, drinking and chatting as usual when out came the change pot it was placed in the middle of the table for all to see. By magic it must have become invisible and have not been picked up on our departure because at our fuel stop a few miles up the road Phil was without said container and had to retrace his footsteps to find the illusive little pot. Phil did catch the group up again later in the day, the Fireblade must have been given a little stick I think.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

To finish I would like to thank Graham and Lynn for organising the trip and the rest of the group for making the weekend so enjoyable I have not laughed so much in years! Phil I think a ball of string would be beneficial, you could tie everything together and put it in your pocket then tie the other end around your neck forming a tracing mechanism to your belongings, just feel around your neck and follow the string to the relevant pocket or pockets easy...... (PS Thank you for the very kind letter, it is our pleasure)

Safe Riding Nigel Barton

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

All Full Member Rides will leave Sainsburys Springfield, Chelmsford, at 9.30am Diary 2013

2013 Jan Feb

8 27

Group Night (natter night) EAMG Full Member Ride

Group Night EAMG AGM & Reveiller Rides

Associate Group Training

EAMG Full Member Ride

Mar

5 10 17 24 30

Group Night ( Race Night, guests welcome ) Associate Group Training EAMG Full Member Ride Observer Peer 2 Peer Super Sausage

April

2 7 14 27-30 28

Group Night Associate Group Training Full Member Training Reveiller Rides (Green) 4 day TBA EAMG Full Member Ride

May

5 EAMG Full Member Ride 6 Graham Childs Cornwall run details TBA 7 Group Night 12 Associate Group Training 19 Observer Peer 2 Peer 25/05-04/06 Reveiller Rides (blue) 11 day Scotland 26 Geoff Prestons day trip to France

June

2 4 9 16 16 22-25 23 30

Full Member Training Group Night Associate Group Training Slow Riding Day at Ford Dunton Boyz Toyz, Hylands House, Chelmsford Reveiller Rides (Red) 4 day TBA EAMG Full Member Ride Observer Peer 2 Peer

July

2 7 7 12-15 14 21 27-31 28

Group Night Associate Group Training Battlesbridge Classic Bike Show Bikers Retreat Wales EAMG Full Member Ride Full Member Training Reveiller Rides (Green) 5 day TBA Geoff Prestons run to the Norwich Aero Musuem

August

4 4

EAMG Full Member Ride Museum of Power Bikemeet

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

6 Group Night 11 Associate Group Training 12 Associate Social Ride 18 John & Audrey’s Boys & Girls ride Cotswolds 24/08-03/09 Reveiller Rides (Blue) 11 day TBA

September

Geoff Preston’s Beachy Head run

Group Night

Associate Group Training

13-16

Bikers Retreat Wales

Observer Peer 2 Peer

Slow Riding Day at Ford Dunton

EAMG Full Member Ride

Battlesbridge Motorbilia Day

October

1 4-8 6 13 20

Group Night Reveiller Rides (Red) 5 day TBA Associate Group Training EAMG Full Member Ride Full Member Training

November

EAMG Full Member Ride

Group Night

Associate Group Training

EAMG Full Member Training

Group Night

Associate Group Training

December

Group Nights @ 19:30, AGTs @ 9:15 am

August

Diary 2013

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

C J BARDWELL Contractors Flagstaff Farm, Green Lane, Althorne, Essex, CM3 6BQ Telephone: Office 01621 828276; Mobile 07836 277223; Fax 01621 828113 BUILDING, CIVIL ENGINEERING AND MAINTENANCE EXTENSIONS - GARAGES - LOFT CONVERSIONS BLOCKPAVING DRIVEWAYS - PATIOS ROOFING (ALL TYPES) CARPENTRY - BRICKWORK WATER MAIN AND SEWER REPAIRS AND RENEWAL FENCING - REPLACEMENT WINDOWS (upvc, hardwood, aluminium) UPVC CLADDING, FASCIAS, SOFFITS UNDERPINNING - LANDSCAPING PAINTING AND DECORATING FULLY INSURED (BUT NOT YET NEEDED) For free no-obligation quote, phone Clint on 01621 828276 (office) 07836 277223 (mobile) DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL WORK UNDERTAKEN INSURANCE WORK WELCOME

Member of The Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING PROMOTING EXCELLANCE MOTORCYCLING SINCE 1982 EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

RoSPA Advanced Motorcycle Test 1. Preparation Examiners will do their best to set you at your ease. They will expect your vehicle to appear roadworthy and the view through your helmet to be clear. Before starting you should be prepared, if asked, to carry out or describe the daily or weekly checks that you do on your vehicle. Shortly after moving off you should carry out a moving brake test if conditions permit. The examiner will consider the skills you demonstrate in the following areas: 1.1. Use of controls You will be expected to use all controls smoothly and with finesse. 1.1.1. Steering This should be smooth and controlled. The examiner will watch to ensure that you can manoeuvre at low speeds, and at higher speeds in line with safety and speed limits. 1.1.2. Clutch Your use of the clutch should show smoothness, delicacy and timing with the gear change lever. 1.1.3. Gears The way you use the gearbox will tell the examiner a lot about your ability. He or she will consider the way you make the change, your ability to match engine revolutions to road speed and how you use the gearbox when slowing to a stop. 1.1.4. Brakes Your use of the brakes will play a big part in the examinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final assessment. S/he will look for smoothness, early braking at the right place in the system, a careful balance of front and rear brakes to avoid pitching and skidding. The examiner will look for the progressiveness of the brake pressure used to bring the motorcycle smoothly to a stop. 1.1.5. Throttle The throttle mechanism is spring loaded to its closed position. You must accustom yourself to this to achieve smoothness. The examiner will want to see you displaying acceleration sense and, most important on a motorcycle, varying the power transmitted according to changes in road surfaces. 1.1.6. Rear Observations Rear observations play a big part in the system. It is important that the rider is aware of conditions to the rear as well as to the front to enable the early formulation of a riding plan. The examiner will note the timing of rear observation as you use mirror and shoul-

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

der checks. These should be made only when the act of looking away from the front is not in itself a hazard. 1.1.7. Horn The examiner will note audible warnings. The horn should be sounded only when necessary, when all other safety features have been implemented. 1.1.8. Visibility It is essential to have clean mirrors, windscreen and helmet visor. It is important that the visor is clear of scratches and heavy tints. You must also use demisting fluids and polishes to keep a clear view in the rain. 1.2. Riding Performance 1.2.1. Smoothness Moving off and stopping must be smooth and safe. You must give good shoulder checks before moving off. You should be able to control the machine at low speeds. The examiner will expect a careful balance of throttle and brakes. He or she will note which foot you put down when stopping. The thinking rider will be able either to place both feet on the ground or to balance with one foot while the other works a control. To prevent the machine from rolling when stationary one of the brakes should be kept applied where appropriate. 1.2.2. System The examiner will expect to see you demonstrate your understanding of the system as outlined in Motorcycle Roadcraft, and the correct sequence of your riding actions. He will observe your hand and foot actions for balance and the timing of your signals. To do this the examiner may not be in the position behind you that you may expect. Do not be disconcerted. S/he may be checking that your rear observations are really to seek information and not just habitual or reflex actions. Do not treat the examiner as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;following trafficâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; when considering whether or not to give a signal. The use of the system as described in Motorcycle Roadcraft is the cornerstone of advanced riding and inconsistencies in using it will affect any grade awarded. To achieve a gold or silver grade you should apply the system consistently throughout the test. A bronze grade may be typified by inconsistencies in its use. 1.2.3. Positioning The examiner will note how you position your machine for safety, stability and view on the approach to hazards both on the open road and in urban areas. S/he will also note your use of lanes. You should be able to position the machine in order to obtain the best view that is available all the time. You should also understand that at times a position for view or speed

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

will have to be sacrificed for the sake of safety. When you are riding round bends and corners, and not overtaking, you should not cross marked centre lines and you should not cut corners when entering marked junctions. RoADAR believes that to do so is potentially dangerous. Such actions may be the result of entering the hazard too fast and may confuse oncoming and following traffic. This view is supported by The Highway Code. If anything untoward happened during such a manoeuvre the rider might be seen to be at fault and might then blame RoADAR for teaching or condoning this action. If there are no centre markings then some movement over the centre of the road may be acceptable. We emphasise again that the mark of an advanced rider is always to be able to place the machine precisely where it belongs under all conditions and that it should be in the right place, travelling at the right speed and with the correct gear engaged. 1.2.4. Cornering The examiner will watch how you ride around corners and bends in both urban and rural areas. He will look at the line you take to ensure that it gives the best view and safety margins. You will need to demonstrate that you are correctly applying the principles and safety features of cornering. 1.2.5. Signals You should always remember that signals are the language of the road. You will need to consider using signals to warn other road users of your presence and intentions. They should therefore be given clearly and in good time. Arm signals should be given when appropriate to reinforce any mechanical signal. The examiner will note all these points and will also be observing your reactions to traffic signs. 1.2.6. Speed Advanced riders must be capable of controlling their machines at speeds up to the maximum speed limit where it is safe to do so. While the use of speed must at all times be safe and legal, the examiner will want to see a brisk ride with good progress being made where possible. A riding plan that relies on exceeding the speed limit to complete a manoeuvre is unacceptable. If you consistently exceed the speed limit the examiner will stop the test and you will fail. 1.2.7. Overtaking While overtaking manoeuvres are inherently dangerous they are a necessary element of the concept of good progress. However, they must be conducted safely and within the speed limit. Examiners will expect you to overtake if it is appropriate but remaining in the overtaking position for long periods may indicate that you are not looking far enough ahead or may

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

be interpreted as being aggressive. They will look for evidence that the many safety features have been applied, the main one being your ability to regain your correct position on the road before any approaching vehicles - seen or unseen - could come into conflict with you. Exceeding the speed limit in order to complete an overtake is unacceptable. 1.3. General Ability 1.3.1. Deportment Rider and machine must blend harmoniously at all times. The controls should be adjusted so as almost to become extensions of the riderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s limbs. Posture should be natural and comfortable. Lying flat on the tank or hanging off the seat when cornering should be treated as unnecessary for the road rider. Quiet efficiency is the hallmark of the good rider. Your consideration for other road users and your self discipline will reveal itself, as will your temperament, which, at least when riding, should be calm and relaxed but alert and decisive. 1.3.2. Vehicle sympathy We expect association members to respect their machines and develop motorcycle sympathy to the benefit of the current and future rider. 1.3.3. Observations One of the principal differences between the novice and the advanced rider is the huge amount which the latter sees and applies when developing a riding plan. You will be expected to actively seek information about changes in the short, medium and distant views. It is not enough merely to acknowledge a change as the examiner will wish to see evidence of observation links and how you cope with what you have seen. 1.3.4. Judging distance The examiner will note your ability to judge distance and the way you relate this to the speed of your own and other vehicle's, together with the way you link this ability with your braking and acceleration.

1.3.5. Motorways and dual carriageways Joining the motorway can be from either lane of the slip road and will depend on traffic conditions and which lane gives the best view of the motorway. You should use acceleration sense to achieve an appropriate merge speed. Speed and following distances should be appropriate for the conditions. When leaving the motorway you should be in lane 1 before the 300 yards marker and, if necessary, signalling that intention. 1.3.6. Knowledge At the end of the ride you will be asked several questions on The Highway Code, Motor-

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

cycle Roadcraft and basic motorcycle mechanics. You must be familiar with these two publications. There are a few things about how motorcycles work that every rider must know. Your motorcycle handbook should provide sufficient data for this part of the test. Know your subject well and you will not go far wrong. It is worth mentioning that through membership of RoADAR local groups you are likely to have many questions answered by the members who have already taken a test. It is unusual for a rider without some form of advanced rider training to obtain a high grade. Local group tutors can help and their advice and support is free.

1.4. Grading "Advanced driving is the ability to control the position and speed of the vehicle safely, systematically and smoothly, using road and traffic conditions to progress unobtrusively with skill and responsibility. This skill requires a positive but courteous attitude and a high standard of driving competence based on concentration, effective all round observation, anticipation, and planning. This must be coordinated with good handling skills. The vehicle should be at the right place on the road at the right time, travelling at the right speed with the correct gear engaged and can always be stopped safely on its own side of the road in the distance that can be seen to be clear.." (DSA RoADA IAM 1997). It is difficult to lay down precise specifications for the Association's three gradings, as it is very much a matter for the expertise and overall judgement of the examiner. It is important, however, to provide guidelines on how the various grades are determined to ensure consistency, understanding, and above all, confidence in the grading system. The grade decided by the examiner will not be changed although any appeal will be reviewed by the Chief Examiner, who may offer a retest or comment in writing on any points raised. Examiners operate under strict national guidelines to ensure that the Association's very high standards are maintained. The following guidelines about the requirements for each grade are intended to help you understand better the criteria applied when awarding a grade. Gold - This grade is recognised as the highest riding award available to the public. It will be awarded only to the polished systematic rider, who displays a complete understanding and appropriate application of the principles outlined in Motorcycle Roadcraft. The candidate will display a confidence and ability throughout the whole test which leads the examiner to consider that, if afforded the opportunity, the candidate has the potential with the basics already in place to do well on a police advanced course. The candidate's performance must be consistent throughout the whole of the test and so any lapses may result in a lower grade. Awards of this grade will therefore be reserved for the very best riders. Silver - This grade will be awarded to riders who are well above the average. These

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

riders will produce consistently safe and systematic rides but perhaps without the final polish, flair and smoothness of the Gold riders. They will demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the system of motorcycle control. Candidates must be able to ride up to the permitted speed limit where it is safe to do so but vary speed according to circumstances and conditions. It must be emphasised that silver is an extremely high grade and a commendable achievement. Bronze - This grade will be awarded to riders whose performance is significantly above the standard required to pass the 'L' riding test. These riders will show a basic knowledge of Motorcycle Roadcraft but lack the ability to apply the system consistently throughout the test. The ride should be entirely safe, observing traffic signs, responding correctly to hazards and should display advanced riding techniques. Candidates who fall below the minimum pass will be classified as 'fail'. Once you have passed your test, you will be required to maintain your standard of riding by taking a re-test every three years – this is free to Members. When your retest is due we will send you a reminder and booking form. You must take your retest within a reasonable time of the due date in order to keep your Membership. Possible reasons for not passing the test or for a lower grade Riders will fail if they display potentially dangerous faults, persistently infringe speed limits, commit violations of Road Traffic Law or the rules contained in The Highway Code. If the candidate fails to reach the pass standard, the examiner will offer advice on improvement and encourage further training or guidance from a local group. Occasional minor infringements with a perceived acceptable reason should not result in failure on their own, but may be a reason for a lower grade. As a general rule, the examiner will consider whether the candidate is a rider worthy of displaying the badge of an advanced rider, i.e. someone who will consistently drive according to the principles of Roadcraft. What to do if you fail? If you fail your initial test you may take a re-test between three and six months later for which you will be expected to pay a fee. The cost for a re-test is £25 for car, £35 for a motorcycle and £40 for LGV. If you wish to improve your standard we do suggest that you join a Local Group. You will then be in touch with other members who will advise and perhaps offer tuition. Examiners' decisions on test results are final.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

bacon_motorcycle@btconnect.com www.baconsmotorcycles.co.uk

Open 9am-6pm Mon to Sat

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

SUNDAY 4th AUGUST 2013 10am–5pm All motorcycles welcome: Veteran, vintage, classics, Racing, cruisers, scooters etc. (Free entry to exhibitors) CLASS TROPHIES Bike equipment and jumble stalls welcome (pitches £22)

Trials riding demonstrations, live band, beer tent, food, stalls & bouncy castle. Museum and tearoom open with working historic machinery and mini steam train rides. The bar will be open on Saturday night to stallholders & clubs camping overnight. £5 pitch fee booked in advance. Admission: Adults £6.00 Seniors £5.00 Children 0-11 free For further details contact Mick on tel. 07762 889408 Or e-mail mickhewitt39@hotmail.com

Entry forms available at www.museumofpower.org.uk

Museum of Power Hatfield Road, Langford near Maldon Essex CM9 6QA Charity no. 1087459 PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

News n Stuff…… The Dutch Nursery Garden Centre on West Street, Coggleshall which is between Braintree and Colchester on the A120 welcomes bikers to its café. They have been in touch with Nigel regarding this so it may well be worth paying them a visit for a lunch stop or end of ride coffee. Their number if you need details is 01376 561 287.

The Eamg stand will be at the Boys Toys event at Hylands House on the 16th of June, support will be most welcome as this is usually a great event to attract new members, more details of what is on are available from http://www.chelmsford.gov.uk/boystoys

E10 fuel, you may or may not have heard about it but either way it will be good to be aware of it. The BMF are debating it and you can join in and find out more via their facebook page; facebook.com/ bmf1960 or via twitter @bmf_chris. E10 fuel can cause damage to vehicles, the department of transport estimates that 8.6 million vehicles in the UK of which 750,000 are motorcycles could be affected. In brief E10 fuel has a higher level of ethanol (10% instead of the current 5%) and should be labelled at the pumps Unleaded 95 E10, you will currently have a choice of the E5 that we are used to filling up with but in the future this maybe phased out and the only E5 available maybe the more expensive super grade versions. It will be well worth checking with your bikes manufacturer if yours is compatible with E10 especially if it is a pre-2000 bike.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

As you may know I have fairly recently moved to a Honda dealer (Belle Vue in Southend) so I took the opportunity to take a couple of demo bikes out for a spin a few weeks back. The one that for me really stood out was the new CB500F, I have always been rather fond of the old CB500 and if you feel the same you will love the new version. It handles really well, the suspension is much nicer and more plush then the older bikes and the new engine is silky smooth and has plenty of punch, it really puts a smile on your face. It is over all a brilliant little bike and costs less then £5,000 on the road. The R version is your sporty option and the X version great for those that like the bigger bike feel, that one has just arrived so I can’t wait to have a go….

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Moulsham School Brian Road Chelmsford CM2 9ES

Most of us know but for those who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hopefully this map will give you an idea of where AGTs are held. Remember they are on the first Sunday of the month.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

And sometimes here

EAMG Group Nights are held here

Group Nights at Channels Golf Club are held on the first Tuesday of every month

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Slow Riding Day 16th June This years first slow riding day is coming up and for those of you that haven’t done one it would be well worth going along and having a go. You may well think “slow riding that sounds daft”, but think about it, how often since you passed your test have you practiced emergency stops or U-turns ? You may well think that your machine control skills at low speed are fine, however most people will be amazed at how much they can be improved. Held at Ford Dunton on part of the test track Slow Riding day lets you practice various manoeuvres in a safe environment with observers on hand to give helpful tips and hints. A small fee of £5 is required to cover you to take part and for refreshments.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

At some point during the session there is also a slow race which is great fun and the winner receives a prize, and if you are a bit shy its great fun to watch. Ford Dunton is very easy to find just off the A127 at Laindon (postcode SS15 6EE) and you are usually asked to meet in the lay-by which is on the road into Ford just before the gatehouse, where you will be met by an observer who will lead you to the test track. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure John Tullett will post more detail about the event nearer the time. It is important to let John know if you are going to attend as he will need to make sure enough observers are available. The site is quite open so if it is a hot sunny day (you never know it might be!) then it is advisable to bring a hat or sun cream. You will be required to wear all of your bike gear when taking part so it can get quite hot down on the track.

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Discount for EAMG Members………

Belle Vue Honda Southchurch Road, Southend on Sea SS1 2QA 01702 464 945 are offering 10% off Labour and 5% off Parts

Help me fill this page, if you know of any dealers in the Essex area that will offer discount to group members then let me know, I’ll be at group nights or you can email me lwindram@eamg.org.uk

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Volunteers Required Promoting our group at various events through out the year is a really valuable tool for introducing our group to new members, this year we need your help. If you are available to help man the stand please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be shy speak to a committee member

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Further Training Opportunities for Full Members

Have you ever wondered if your riding skill is still as good as it was when you passed your IAM or RoSPA Test? Is your RoSPA Retest fast approaching and you feel you’d like a refresher to check that bad habits have not crept into your riding? We are all only as good as the day we are actually riding our bikes. How good our riding was last year or even last month may not be as good as we think it is; complacency can be fatal. EAMG provide two Further Training Schemes for Full Members: Full Member Training (FMT) – One-day training courses available four times a year Further Training for Full Members (FTFM) – Assignment to an Observer for 1 to 1 training These courses are provided to check riding skills haven’t deteriorated, for those wishing to take a higher grade of test such as RoSPA or for those preparing for qualification as an EAMG Observer. Full Member Training Four FMT Courses take place during ‘summer time’ between March and October. Participation is entirely voluntary and those taking part do not have to join each ride. Training is for your benefit and enjoyment; it is not a mandatory requirement that you go on to take a RoSPA test. To ensure the highest possible standard, Observers undertaking this training will hold a current RoSPA Gold certificate. You will not be riding in one large group. Where possible you will be riding with an Observer and one other Full Member giving you the opportunity to have a 'rest' while your partner is being observed. Every effort will be made to match your riding experience, ability and aspirations with your partner, any miss matching being addressed at the first refreshment stop. The routes, approx. 200 miles, will cover a variety of roads and include several debriefing stops and two refreshment stops. Joining details will be sent by email or post a few days before the event. Events this year: Joining Fee £45.00

Sunday 14th April 2013

Sunday 2nd June 2013

Sunday 21st July 2013

Sunday 20th Oct 2013

Contact John Tipper, Email: jtipper@eamg.org.uk

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Further Training for Full Members You will be assigned to an Observer and rides will be arranged on a one to one basis when mutually convenient. Although not mandatory, unlike FMT, the training will be structured as preparation for a further test such as RoSPA. To apply to join this scheme: Apply to the Membership Secretary either at membership renewal or during the season. You will be asked to pay an additional Membership Fee (details below). Your Application will be passed to the Observer Co-ordinator who will assign you to the first available Observer. Where feasible, geographical location will be considered. You will be expected to pay the Observer a contribution (details below) towards fuel costs. Participation must be renewed annually.

Name: Address:

Post Code:

Tel:

Email: Riding Experience:

Aspirations:

Typical annual mileage:

Machine: FTFM - 2013

Membership Secretary

Observer Coordinator

tba

John Tullett

tba

jtullett@eamg.org.uk

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Additional Membership Fee

Contribution to Observer

ÂŁ20 pa

ÂŁ10 per ride 49

ESSEX ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS GROUP

Registered in England & Wales, Registration No. 5258261

Laura Windram, Editor University of Essex Printing Services, contact Hannah 01206 872822 for more information. Please mention EAMG when replying to advertisers - it identifies you!

Disclaimer and Copyright Notice: The articles published herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Essex Advanced Motorcyclists Group. They are the opinions of individual contributors and are published with a view that free expression promotes discussion and interest. Any spelling or grammatical errors are the responsibility of the editor and a society that pays footballers more than teachers. Inclusion of adverts is not to be construed as EAMG endorsement, although most advertisers are excellent, but seek personal recommendations.Text ÂŠ EAMG 2011. Illustrations ÂŠ EAMG 2010, except where indicated otherwise. Group material may be reproduced provided acknowledgement is given to EAMG and the original author.

http://www.eamg.org.uk Affiliated to the British Motorcyclists Federation Registered Charity Number 1107703 Essex Advanced Motorcyclists Group Ltd, Registered Office, St Laurence House, 2 Gridiron Place, Upminster, Essex, RM14 2BE

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982

Buying or Selling? phone ...

USED BIKE SPECIALIST Unit 2, Court Industrial Estate, Navigation Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 6DN

Accessories, Spares + Clothing

MOTORCYCLES BOUGHT, SOLD & EXCHANGED Always 50 machines in stock — see:

www.allenbymotorcycles.co.uk Tel: 01245 348100 Fax: 01245 348101

PROMOTING MOTORCYCLING EXCELLANCE SINCE 1982