SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
sam January 2012
The IAM Aims To Improve the Standard of Driving and Riding The Advancement of Road Safety The Administration of an Advanced Test
MAKING
SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS January 2012
progress Two go around the bend (5000 times), Page 6.
INSIDE P7 Preparing your bike for winter
P5 Winter riding tips.
Julian tries to get the hang of it. P4 Prepare yourself for winter riding.
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Registered Charity 1097558
SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
Chairman’s chat, Jan 2012 flages you. And always make sure you have your headlight on.
So 2012 is finally upon us. And it promises to be an eventful year; the Olympics, the Diamond Jubilee, the opening of the new ‘Harry Potter World’ if that’s your thing. Lots to look forward to, whatever “floats your boat” (although that phrase may be a bit inappropriate as it’s also the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic). So I want to start by wishing you a very happy and, more particularly, a safe 2012.
The art of being an advanced rider is all about risk awareness. My wife (a Health and Safety wallah) always says to me “Have you got your biker brain engaged?” before I go on a ride. She knows I will stay safe if I stay focussed - as safe as I would be walking down to the shops, or crossing a busy road anyway.
Safety has been very much in my mind over the past year. SAM has a fantastic safety record but we all know that accidents happen, even to the very best riders, sometimes with life -changing consequences. Some of you may know that I had an accident 3 years ago in France (hit by a student on a moped trying to overtake a lorry on a blind bend entering a built-up area – how many errors of judgement can you spot in that?) which smashed up the metatarsals in my foot. Just before Christmas my daughter managed almost the same damage stepping off a curb and catching her foot in a drain. As any health and safety wallah will tell you, you cannot prevent accidents you can only reduce them – and you do that by being risk -aware. As advanced bikers we know this, but it is worth repeating for the benefit of new Associates:
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Always assume that other road users may not have seen you. Be ‘fit to ride’. The effects of drink and drugs are well documented, but being too tired, or too cold can be killers too. Give drivers time to realise you are there, don’t arrive so fast you startle the driver. Always leave plenty of space between yourself and other traffic. Look well ahead to avoid needing to make sudden changes in direction for potholes etc. Be seen. Big blocks of bright colour are better than broken up or patterned clothing, which effectively camou-
Winter riding brings extra risks – bad light, greasy surfaces, potholes and debris, rain, fog, snow and ice. Many riders take to their cars when the weather is bad. Some bikes stay in the garage all winter. But as advanced riders we should remember that weather conditions can change. What started as a fine day can become a rainstorm by mid morning. So we need to be able to deal with these conditions if we intend travelling by bike at all in winter. So I would encourage all Associates to take advantage of the expert guidance of your Observers and get out there to practice these essential skills. And if you already have your green badge but haven’t yet taken advantage of our Advanced Plus or one-off check ride schemes, please make 2012 the year you make yourself and even better rider. Having got the serious message out of the way, let’s think about what else 2012 has in store for SAM. We will continue our programme of Ride-outs throughout the year; mostly on Sundays but we have been extending the choice with evening rides, midweek meets and Saturday rides for those who prefer it. We also benefitted from a fresh approach to club nights which last year included dealer evenings, hog roasts, pancakes, guest speakers and film nights. We have a lot of social activities open to us; curry evenings, long weekends away, BBQ, another track day, a foreign trip perhaps? Have you replied to the popularity poll yet? Remember, what we do is up to you. And don’t forget our fantastic prize draw to raise money for our new Display Unit; get your tickets, get involved, and be a part of this wonderful club. So here’s looking forward to a happy, fun-filled and safe 2012.
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SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
Chief Observer’s Report – Jan 2012 A mixed period for the Observer Cadre since I last wrote in Making Progress. We have had the sad news of the passing of Senior Observer Peter Joss. Pete was a long-serving member of SAM and untiring in advocating high standards in advanced motorcycle training. Richard Ferguson decided the time was right to retire from observing after 23 years observing in both Middlesex (MAM) and SAM. Typically, he finished on a high with three Associates passing this year.
And, it’s been a good year to date. We’ve conducted over 50 Check Test rides. 37 Associates have been successful in the IAM Advanced Motorcycle Test since 1st May, so we are pretty much on track to get a good number through before the 2012 AGM.
I am heartened by the enthusiasm and application many Observers bring to their role, often taking any opportunity to raise their own standards. In doing so they have even more to pass on to their Associates: Stuart Dorey, Peter Curtis and Sam Davis have all taken the IAM Special Assessment and achieved creditable results from Staff Examiner, Jon Taylor. High marks are not easily achieved and require a lot of preparation. We are fortunate in SAM to have the depth of experience among the Senior Observers to assist members with such preparation and thanks go, in particular, to Dave Bruguier in this respect. Nigel Grace and Ian Cooper both achieved “1st class” passes in the SAM Advanced Plus test. For the third year running Observers had their annual training weekend in Tiverton. This year’s was the best ever with a high attendance and a great deal of effort put into riding, training scenarios and, of course, having fun. Newer Observers got to know and ride with the others in their Cells. With three newly-qualified Senior Observers in the summer, the fourth Observer Cell, the Wallington & Ems, came into being in the east of our area. It is led by John Parvin and John Arthur. Senior Observer John Longland is stepping out of the Hamble & Meon Cell to become SAM Training Officer. This is an important role that will see him take on responsibility for delivering all theory training in 2012. Dates for these sessions will be announced in the New Year. In consequence, Senior Observer Keiron Parsons has moved across from Itchen & Test to help Mike West run Hamble & Meon. Lilian Hobbs and Colin Hitchcock continue to run Itchen & Test and Dave Bruguier and Colin Backhouse look after Lymington & Beaulieu in the west. I am grateful to them all. SAM’s success as one of the Groups with the highest quality of training in the country is down to the Cell leadership we have.
Well, winter is upon us with its blizzards, horizontal rain and cold winds that would castrate a brass monkey.
After all that’s good in the progress being made, you wouldn’t expect me to write that things couldn’t be better! However, I sometimes wonder if the concept of “Just-In -Time” as applied to the last-minute delivery of minimal supplies in manufacturing industry isn’t creeping into the worlds of education and training. I note that my eldest son – preparing for his GCSEs at school – is presented with “extracts” that will help him pass his exams in contrast to having to read complete books. Similarly, do some Associates really believe that a minimalist approach to learning the theory of advanced riding and practising the practical skills will, if all goes well on the day, get them a pass? We don’t have many Associates who do not achieve a pass at the first attempt. But the number could be even lower with a bit more application and practice. Observers put a tremendous amount of effort into their training and development. When they pass this knowledge on through observed rides, the points brought out have then got to be practised, and practised regularly. Full Members have no excuses now either. SAM offers you regular participation in Group Rides at various levels, SAM Advanced Plus and the opportunity for a Refresher Ride with a Senior Observer or very experienced Observer. These were launched at the end of the summer, yet only nine members have taken them up! I was concerned we might be inundated. We’ve a membership of around 300. Where were you? So, make a resolution for 2012, whether you are an Associate, Full Member or even an Observer. This will be my year, the year in which I take my riding to another level. Compared to last year, the winter weather is mild. Make the most of it! From all in the Observer Cadre, best wishes for the New Year!
journey from Associate to Observer. By the way; having known Julian for a few years now, but I had never realised that he was a trick cyclist, read more. The final item, is a tale of bravery, endurance, pain and suffering when taking part in foreign rallies, by yours truly.
ed sed
At this time of year the majority of motorcyclists are occasionally going to the garage to check that their precious is nicely tucked up in bed waiting for warmer times. But we members of SAM are made of sturdier stuff, or at least we should be, so to help you, this issue is full of tips regarding preparing yourself and your bike for winter riding. In addition to that and the regular material, Julian Labouchardiere records his personal
Here’s wishing you all a safe, enjoyable and adventurous 2012. And when you have had your fun send in the stories and pictures so that I can share them with the rest of the club, in your magazine. Rod.
A piece of winter cheer (courtesy of www.motorroads.com) A police officer pulled over two nuns riding on a motorcycle, and said to the rider, 'Ma'am, you're driving much too slowly, could you please drive faster?" And the nun says, 'Oh, I saw the sign with the "21" and assumed the speed limit was 21 km/h" The officer explains: 'No ma'am, the speed limit is 80. The highway number is Interstate 21." Then the police officer looked at the passenger and saw the other nun shaking like a leaf. "Excuse me sister, but what's wrong with your passenger?" "Oh, that's probably because we just got off Highway 205." Page 3
SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
Eventually the cold will find its way through all the layers you're wearing and will, eventually, begin cooling your body to dangerous levels, depending of course on how cold it actually is. Body weight, fat content, general physical condition and circulatory health all play Riding your motorcycle in is not only about preparing a part. The real trick is; your bike but also yourself for the bad weather. Bear in knowing how to recognize mind the quote by Alfred Wainwright: “There's no such when you're too cold and how long you can stay thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” outside in various temperature conditions. I'm no The following extract from: http:// motorcyclemanifesto.blogspot.com/2007/11/series-winter-riding health expert, so I would encourage you to seek out -i.html has been adapted as it regards riding in the US where proper medical advice on extremes in temperature far exceed the those of the UK. recognising and underFrostbitten fingers, ouch. standing hypothermia, Keep warm: Riding a motorcycle in the winter can be just as frost bite and the like. In short, if you feel cold, you are cold and enjoyable and fun as on a sunny, warm spring day. The key, of course, is keeping warm and dry. This is nothing new and should you should take steps to not feel cold. "cold" is relative, of be obvious to anyone who ever rode or spent time outdoors dur- course. It's likely that you will always feel some amount of chill ing the chillier times of the year. Yet so many riders barrel down in winter while riding a motorcycle. That "warm and toasty" feeling is often a myth, or hopeful wishing at best. the road in winter, wearing inadequate clothing.
Winter Riding
Prepare yourself
Wind is evil: First and foremost to keeping warm while riding is the need to decrease the amount of exposed skin. If you're the type to ride with an open face helmet with no type of face or neck protection or use fingerless "cruiser" gloves, you are dramatically decreasing your body's ability to retain heat. You are purposely introducing an artificial and extreme type of wind chill. Wind chill is defined as: the perceived temperature resulting from the effect of wind, in combination with cold air, which increases the rate of heat loss from the human body. In short, you are directly and rapidly increasing the rate at which you lose body heat. This is bad. The longer you remain in this exposed condition, the more likely you are to suffer from hypothermia, frost bite, decreased mental acuity, reduced vision and control of your extremities. The following chart helps illustrate real vs. perceived temperatures when wind is introduced at various temperatures. In conjunction with minimising exposed skin to the wind, one also needs to cut wind and airflow into your clothing and, ultimately, to your unexposed skin. Even a summer weight jacket will feel warmer - albeit slightly - if it has a wind barrier layer; preferably as its outermost layer. By decreasing the effect of wind cutting into your clothing at the outer-most layer, the inner layers of clothing are better able to keep you warm and wick off less heat from your skin.
Every person is different and when one person feels cold in particular conditions, another may still be very comfortable, and vice versa. There's no perfect formula for everyone, but the basics generally work:
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Dress in thin, lighter layers rather than one thick layer Minimize or eliminate gaps in your clothing where wind can get in Overlap where ever possible, longer shirts pulled down over the tops of pants, etc. Minimise or eliminate areas of exposed skin to the wind Take frequent breaks and when you do take breaks, try to go inside During breaks, open up your jackets to get the inner layers acclimatised to warmer air again During breaks, try to walk around and let your body circulate warmer blood to all your extremities
KEEP DRY - evaporative cooling in winter is BAD Block as much wind as possible - use a windshield or wind deflectors, ensure your gear is "wind proof" on the outer layers, use rain gear over regular clothing to help cut the wind, etc. And the next time you walk to the garage and think it’s not that cold, think again, add another layer.
Layers: not just for cakes or ogres! Layering your clothes helps provide a simple type of insulation. Air is "trapped" between the layers of clothing and is generally kept a little warmer than the adjacent, outer-facing layer. If you wear, for instance, a t-shirt, a regular long sleeved shirt, a fleece liner and a wind proof jacket, the layer of air between your body and the t-shirt will be only slightly cooler than your body, and the next layer outward will be cooler, and so on, until ultimately, the jacket itself (likely made of several layers of various materials), will be equal with the ambient temperature outside - on its outer layer while you remain warm and comfortable inside the layers. One important fact that many riders overlook is this layered approach to dressing only slows down wind chill. It cannot eliminate wind chill completely. In fact, just the opposite is true.
Fine for downtown Vientiane, not really suitable for the Yorkshire Wolds in January.
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SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
SAM Welcomes New Members Michael Carter Marvin Lockyer Andrew Thomson Shaun Turton Kevin Jones Matty Neller Phillip Rudd Anthony Sheppard Lorraine Woodthorpe Alison Tod Martyn Keith Liddy Jonathan Reed
Chris Sturgeon Norman Le Marechal Peter Sanders Alan Turner Neil Whitaker Michael Worth Peter Anthony Trevor Bradnam Stephen Lacey Andrew Charlton Philip Woolgar Peter Maxwell
Winter Riding
to the inside of your hand (resulting in cold outside from the windblast) heated gloves deliver an even heat all over.
Prepare your riding style
4. Practice your braking. With the roads slippery and/or icy it is worth remembering that this will affect your ability to stop. 5. Keep a good lookout. I know this sounds obvious but, remember that people in their cars may be cold, possibly its dark, they couldn't be bothered to de-ice properly so their only view of the road is no better than a submarine captain will have of the sea through a periscope, there are any number of factors that mean they are paying less attention. 6. Carry spare clothing. If your gloves or scarf get wet on the way somewhere it's always nice to slip on dry gloves for the return journey. Look around for options with regard to clothing i.e. you don't need 2 pairs of winter gloves, you could use inner gloves with your summer gloves (the inner gloves can be worn alone so you have warm gloves if you need them) go give you more warmth. 7. Check the weather forecast. There will be those days when riding is simply not an option. Better to know this in advance rather then when fully kitted up and half a mile from home.
Da-di-da-da, da-di-da-di.. Riding in a winter wonderland.
Riding your bike in winter need not be as scary a prospect you would expect. The following tips should help you enjoy winter riding more.
Happy riding
1. Practice your riding in winter kit. Bulky clothing may keep you warm but restrict your movement. Make sure you are happy and comfortable in the gear you are wearing and can control the bike fully. Make sure that your clothing fits well, the last thing you want is a cold breeze blowing in through gaps in the clothing. 2. Carry some wipes with you - when you are riding along the spray from cars and lorries can smear a visor quickly. Being able to give it a quick wipe without removing the helmet or your warm cloths is certainly better then having to lift the visor to get a clear view. 3. If the riding you are doing means long times on the bike or the area is very cold then consider heated clothing, this gives me warmth for less bulk. The price of heated clothing has come down significantly over the last few years to the point where it is worthwhile considering for the few months it will be used. Waistcoats or cummerbunds keep the body core warm and you get heated insoles and gloves. Whilst heated grips deliver heat
It helps if you stay off the slippery stuff
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SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
Arse aches and Drum Brakes
By Rod Griffin
out of which emerged the odd car and truck and the inevitable cows, horses and goats and their contribution to the road holding. A special treat was when I had to overtake a truck being totally blinded by the wet mud it was throwing up and mentally telling my wife how much I loved her as I accelerated past in case I should plunge over the edge having misjudged the distance to the bend. Julian and I had shared being in the lead until my battery ran flat and I no longer had lights to signal my intent. Just as well the Darmah has a kick start so getting it going after fuel stops was not too exhausting. The worst thing was trying to relieve the pain in my backside during the ride by alternating buttocks, standing on the pegs and generally moving about; bit tricky on the bends. When asked by Hugo Wilson, editor of Classic Bike, at the end of the ride how long would it be before I stopped feeling the seat (having had one himself) my reply was ‘about a week’ and one week later as I write this, I can still feel it. The ride finished at the hotel where we were staying, I was looking forward to going straight into the garage, parking up and going for a bath. But due to the large reception at the finish that idea had to be shelved. The rest of our friends were there to welcome us back which was very gratifying, especially when one of them announced that we were the first Brits back (we were only beaten by Spaniards, probably due to local knowledge). After approximately 10 hours in the saddle, Julian and I were 9th and 10th overall. A section of the map you have to follow, get it wrong once and you are lost. I was determined to complete it this year, as last year I had to drop out shortly after the first check
The ‘Route of 5000 curves’ is not for the faint hearted or the ill prepared. It is the premier run for riders who want to test themselves during the “Rally de Cantabria” organised by the Moto Club Piston in northern Spain. This year the 300 + mile route run through the hills of Cantabria venturing into the neighbouring region of Castile & Leon, through cities, towns and villages on everything from short sections of motorway to rough tracks. For some of you the thought of 300 miles may be nothing, “what’s the fuss, I can do that in a morning” I hear you say, and maybe you can, on your GS1200 and on British roads, where all but the minor bends have been straightened out. This ordeal is not called the ‘5000 curves’ for nothing and most importantly of all; your GS1200 would not qualify as the run is limited to motorbikes built before 1980.
The challenge is not a race, the check points along the way open and stay open for an amount of time calculated for riders that obey the speed limits and do not get too lost along the way. Very important that last bit, the route is not sign-posted on the road, but you are given a route map to follow. The map consists of a series of cartoons, each of which shows you the direction you should take at a junction, the overall (approximate) distance to this junction and from the last. All roundabouts are on the route map, but only those junctions which required a change of direction are depicted. Therefore taking a wrong exit may not be noticed for many miles. To make it easy for us Brits, the organisers added the distances in miles. The check points are not listed on the route map and on more than one occasion were a surprise when encountered. You must stop at the check points to record your successful completion of the previous section. So how do you navigate this route? Several people tried to plot to route onto their road maps using the route map and from the large map in the hotel foyer, but that was so imprecise that it could have taken you anywhere. The technique which worked for me was to remember the trip meter mileage at the start (I had intended to zero it but forgot) then using a little bit of mental arithmetic at each depicted junction calculate the distance to the next and remember that value, also remember which cartoon was coming up next. This Taking part was good, finishing was better. technique was developed and refined during the ride, I started off trying to subtract the starting mileage from the total dispoint, having sheared the five bolts that held on my rear drive tance to the next junction, and after several junctions realised sprocket (a factor that gained me notoriety with several particihow imprecise the conversion from km to miles had been (no pants of this year’s rally). nothing wrong with my memory), so the former method was preferred. A great deal of concentration is required to rememSo would I do it again? Of course, but not necessarily on the ber all this and ride the route, in addition it is essential that you Darmah, although the torque provided by that big engine is have a working odometer, something my team mate Julian ideal for the route, the pain and numbness in my nethers alfailed to remember. most spoiled it for me. And the reference to drum brakes in the title, yes you are right the Darmah does not have them, but the th The ride itself was held on the 7 October a wet Friday, the guy who nearly collected my tail light did; when we made an road conditions greasy and covered in all manner of debris deimpromptu pit stop. My only knowledge that he was following signed to throw you off your bike. The Darmah did skip about too closely was the squeal from his brakes and tyres; as he on the first few bends due to gravel, tar over-banding, white narrowly missed me. lines, cow dung etc, making me a little nervous when taking those first bends. In the hills we had the added thrill of hill fog, Page 6
SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
Preparing your bike for Winter riding Courtesy of: http://www.visordown.com/reader-articles/preparing-your-bike-for-winterriding/40.html
So you've decided to ride your bike through the winter. Well good on you. Despite the temperature dropping and the nights getting longer a bike can be a better form of transport. With more people switching to cars you have the ability to get to places faster than those who have switched over to using a car but you also have the satisfaction of having ridden a bike through tough conditions.
charge topped up. Remember that when riding home in the evening you will have the lights on, and possibly heated clothing plugged in, all of which means less charge for the battery.
Lube the clutch cable. During riding it is possible to get grit and water trapped in the cable. Not a problem during the summer, but that water can freeze during the winter - at best this means a stiff clutch lever, at worst a broken clutch cable. Check your brakes both front and rear. Replace pads if they are worn, and check for calliper corrosion. You may want to consider replacing the brake fluid if this has not been done for a while. Give the bike a clean. Take some time to make sure the bike is clean. During the winter you will probably need to clean your bike every 1-2 weeks to remove all the road crud, starting with a clean bike means this is easier. Seal the bike. There are a number of products that will protect the bike over the winter and ensure that damage from road crud will be minimised. Two such products are FS365 from Scotoiler or ACF50 available from most bike shops. In either case you wash the bike and then apply to the bike avoiding the brakes, discs and callipers, effectively giving your bike a shield. During the winter, after washing the bike, you need to check that the protective coat is still intact, if it isn't then simply apply more after washing the bike.
“There you go! You knew I needed a service, but would you? No! You thought you would leave it for another week‌â€? As with every endeavour a little preparation can pay dividends in the long run. If your bike is prepared for the winter then this minimises the amount you need to do on it when the evenings are cold and dark. Carry out all the following tips, or only those that you want to but rest assured that every little bit helps. All of them are designed to ensure that you have a worry free winter.
Consider getting the bike "fixed". If you have any niggling problems with the bike that you have been putting off repairing then getting them fixed now would be the best idea. Whilst being broken down during a long summer night may not be so bad, standing at the side of the road in the middle of winter is definitely not recommended. Consider replacing the tyres. Worn tyres will not give you the grip you need on slippery winter roads. If you are unsure remember that you can hold on to your current set of tyres and refit them come the summer.
Service the bike, at very least change the oil and oil filter. Once done it is one more thing you don't have to worry about. Check the anti-freeze if your bike is water cooled. If you don't have a way to check this then consider replacing the antifreeze/water mix. Check the battery and the terminals. If your battery is old then consider replacing it, cold weather causes a battery to be less efficient, so an old battery will struggle even more. Clean the battery terminals and make sure they are securely connected. To protect the battery terminal connections during the cold weather, smear a covering of Vaseline over them.
Check the tyre pressures - cold temperatures will reduce the pressure in tyres, although this may not be significant it may make a difference to the handling. During the winter you need to make sure you keep the bike clean, make sure all the lights are working and the tyre pressures have not fallen, all the mechanical preparation having been done will mean less time spent in a cold garage or stranded at the side of the road.
Check your electrics. Where the cabling is exposed examine the cabling for breaks, fraying or damage. An easy way to do this is to run a fingertip over cables, you will soon feel and breaks or fraying. Replace any section that shows damage. Make sure all the lights are working including instrument lights. I tend to make sure that I have replacement bulbs and fuses in the garage, if a bulb or fuse does blow then I can change it with the minimum of fuss - better than having to make a trip to a motorcycle dealer just to buy a bulb or get fuses when it's cold outside. Get a trickle charger. Plugging in the bike in overnight to a trickle charger is worthwhile, in order to keep the battery
Perfect in the snow, but a bit crazy on the wiggly bits.
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SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
A Bike is for Life, not Just for Christmas Extracts from the log of a Moto Guzzi owner on his journey to become an Observer for the Institute of Advanced Motorists By Julian Labouchardiere “Hi I’m Mike. So you want to be an advanced rider, then? Well I’m your observer. Stick this intercom piece in your ear - I can talk to you but you can’t talk to me and we’ll go for a spin to see where we are. I will follow you at first.” So off we rode... The intercom crackles “Julian, you’re doing great. I’m going to come past you, just follow me and watch what I’m doing.” Mike shot past, I picked up his tail, it was like watching a surfer on a crest of a wave cutting and turning the board to get the position he wants. “Try and follow a bit closer, Julian.” My head started to fill with Mike’s voice telling me what he was seeing, how far he was looking ahead and how he was processing all this information; and he still had the time to tell me all about it while riding the bike. I was impressed.
“Julian, I thought we spoke about making a bit more progress when you’re overtaking cars; getting past them and out of danger quicker.” “It won’t go any faster!” I retort. Fourth ride out... “Julian, the slow riding I showed you, you were pretty good at that. Alec who runs the slow riding courses wants to see you in action, can you sign up to do the slow riding level 1 & 2 courses.” I knew all those years getting covered in mud and cleaning the bike after trials competitions as a kid had taught me something. “Oh, and by the way Julian, you’re looking good; you should put in for your test. I will get Alec, who is also our Chief Observer, to give you a mock test.”
Now that’s what I call a figure of eight as the old Guzzi demonstrates the action of the electron at the quantum level. Second ride out... “Julian, I’m following you and you never seem to take that bike out of top gear, try changing down for the corners.” ‘Well, top gear has worked well for the last 18 years on this bike, but hey; let’s give it a go,’ I’m thinking. I hate to admit it, but the bike did seem to turn in better on the corners. “Julian, riding with only one mirror, it really limits your vision on the left side of the bike, you should think about putting another one on.”
Slow riding level one... The course goes well and ends with a little competition. To ride as slow as you can, in a straight line, over approximately 30 metres without putting your feet down. Moto Guzzi Le Mans; not really renowned for their slow riding capabilities, in fact, it gets down right bad-tempered sat in slow moving traffic. But guess what! We get the slowest time of the day beating all of the trail bike riders.
I shout back “I’m relying on my sparkling personality,” though I know he can’t hear me.
Slow riding level two... The course goes well again! And ends in another little competition: to ride a zig-zag course of 4 tight bends (not far off full lock) with straights of about 70 metres between them; fastest time wins. Yes, this is what a Moto Guzzi is made for, you need to accelerate fast and brake hard and get round the corners quickly. I look around at the other bikes, some have twice the horse power of my old bike and their brakes look impressive too. But guess what! We get the fastest time. It’s all about the advanced riding system; reading the road ahead, knowing when to brake, when to accelerate. Mike has taught me well.
Third ride out... “Julian, from behind, that rear tyre looks very narrow, are you sure you can’t get a bigger tyre to fit that old bike.”
Message from Mike... “Hi Julian, Alec was impressed with your slow riding, he wants you to help run the courses, what do you think.”
Bloody cheek!
“I’ll give it a go. “
Eighteen years with only one mirror - I remember the days when I a never had a mirror on a bike. Mind you, I can remember falling off a lot in those days too. “Julian,” I can tell through the ear piece his tone is a little sterner, ”you look blacker than a black thing out there; you need to think about putting on some reflective clothing.”
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SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
(continued from page 8)
The mock test... Alec’s keen to get out there and see what I can do, he’s also determined to get me down some windy roads with tricky bends and is very pleased when I tell him that I haven’t got a clue where I am and have never been down these roads before. But I think I’m doing ok. Then Alec overtakes and pulls over to a stop. The Chief Observer takes his crash helmet off and looks at me: “Well Julian, I can see that you know what you’re doing and can ride that bike well, but can we step the pace up a bit and get on with it. I’ll lead, keep up, then I’ll wave you past.” Alec’s riding was silky smooth with flowing overtakes. It was a joy to watch, and on taking the lead I slipped into the groove and had a great ride. “That’s better Julian, and good luck with the test.” Note to self on helping run the slow riding course: When 30 plus bikers are eagerly watching your every move as you try and demo ride round some cones and all you can think is: ‘I’m going to cock this right up,’ remember not to volunteer for anything else! The day of the test... I must be nervous because this bike does not feel very well on the ride to Winchester. I meet the examiner and we set off, I’m in front using my two mirrors to pick up his indicators for direction. I think I should have bought a better quality mirror: his head light is really bright and I can’t pick out the indicator; it’s all just a blaze of light. The nightmare begins: I’m spending too much time looking in the mirrors; I’m missing speed limit signs; my position is starting to drift come on Julian keep it together. Why did I not ride the nice practical BMW with those lovely big mirrors that is sat in the garage at home. Sometimes I could shoot myself. On the slow, very un-advanced ride home, I contemplate the fact that I have passed; I am now a member of the I.A.M, though it feels more like a scrape though than a grade A and this bike’s definitely not well. I get home as deflated as the rear tyre to 15 psi from a slow puncture. Message from Mike: “Hi Julian, been to a meeting. The club’s short of Observers and I have spoken to Alec, we think you should do it, what do you think?”
•
Lillian is very, very patient with me
I try and join in the briefings with some helpful hints and tips of my own. “Julian, I think we should go out on our own. I will play the part of the associate and make some deliberate mistakes, you try and spot them.” “Sounds good to me” Notes on observing: So I have to: ride the bike (using indicators to show a route that I also have to remember); ride close enough to pick up what the associate is doing; know when to overtake (so we can pull in somewhere safe to stop); then remember what we have just done, recall the route, and comment on where the good or bad points of the ride were. I thought men could only do one thing at a time; I may be branching out into new territory here. It takes time, but I do start to pick it up. Riding the bike for me is the easy bit, talking about it; now that’s more difficult. These observers make it look so easy. Day of the test... Lillian is going to sit back and watch while I take one of her Associates out. I’m very nervous. Surprisingly, the associate is even more nervous at the thought of being followed by two bikes, and after a few miles we stop. I take the lead and demo ride to take the pressure off him. It helps a little, but every time we set off I feel like I’m following a different rider: ‘This is a set up,’ I’m thinking! At the end of the day, the associate comments on his changing riding style and how I must think it’s a set up. It’s made him think about the test he will have to do, and how nerves can affect your ride. He agrees it’s been a good exercise to go though and we wish each other good luck. “Well Julian, you’ve done well, complete the theory tests Alec has sent you and if you pass them, you’ll be an Observer.” I thank her for the time she has spent with me. Two weeks after becoming an Observer I get an e-mail, it’s the contact details of my first associate: What did I say to myself about volunteering for things?
Observer! I’ll give it a go
I would like to thank: Mike West: Senior Observer, for turning me into an advanced rider. Alec Gore: Chief Observer, for the part he plays in such a well run club Lillian Hobbs: Senior Observer, for turning me into an Observer Giulio Cesare Carcano: For designing the Moto Guzzi ’V’ Twin engine.
Training to be an Observer... “Hi Julian, I’m Lillian, I’ll be training you up to become an Observer. If you come along while I am training an associate, you can watch the process in action.” Notes on Lillian: • Every time we meet up, Lillian is on a different motorbike. It must be a girly thing; a bit like shoes. I hope she knows the first rule of motorcycling: a bike is for life, not just for Christmas • Lillian is very patient with her Associates
•
Lillian is very patient with me
One associate wants to know how I ride without using brakes, I look puzzled, we investigate, my brake light is stuck on.
•
Lillian is very patient with me
I befriend one associate by taking the mickey out of his plastic Triumph, I mean retro looking Triumph. One hour later, he is stood arms crossed, overlooking me as I repair a dead Moto Guzzi (earth lead had snapped)
That’s typical of a woman, you just turn around to talk to her and she’s off, without a ‘by your leave’.
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SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
SAM ASSOCIATE CHARTER (Revised) Purpose This Charter sets out the basis of the relationship between Observers and Associates. Observers Observers give their time freely to Associates. They also invest considerable time, energy and personal expense in their personal training so that they can provide Associates with a “Skill for Life”. Associates In exchange for Observers’ time and commitment, a reciprocal commitment is required from Associates:
•
Regular practice between Observed rides in order to put into practice what they have been shown and to apply `The System of Motorcycle Control`.
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A commitment to study the Highway Code, How to be a Better Motorcyclist, Know Your Signs and, preferably, Roadcraft, in-between observed rides.
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A voluntary contribution towards the Observer’s motorcycle running costs, as set down by the Group and varied from time to time. This is currently £10 for rides up to 40 miles and £15 for rides in excess of 40 miles.
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To keep in contact with their Observer at reasonable intervals to arrange subsequent rides.
The Process
1.
The Observer allocated to an Associate will make contact to arrange the first observed ride.
2.
When an Observer feels that an Associate is test-ready, he/she will recommend a Check Test with a Senior Observer to verify the Associate’s progress.
3.
Any Associate who wishes a second opinion on their progress is welcome to come along to a SAM Sunday and request an observed ride with an Observer, other than their own.
4.
Some riders achieve the necessary skills with 6 runs, while others require more. Every rider is different: If, after 10 runs, the Observer or Associate feel they are unable to make further progress, the Associate may be handed back to the Chief Observer for advice or re allocation to another Observer.
5.
Associates are normally expected to pass the IAM Advanced Test within 2 years.
6.
Associates are encouraged to ride in bad weather, as this is an essential skill for life. Cancellation of an observed run due to bad weather will be a joint decision by the Observer and the Associate.
7.
If the Observer feels that insufficient progress is being achieved by an Associate over a three month period due to a lack of practice, lack of studying or the Associate not keeping in contact, the Associate will be "pooled" and await reallocation to another Observer.
8.
In the event that an Associate feels that, for whatever reason, e.g. a clash of personality, difference in style etc. he/she is not making the progress with their Observer that they had hoped for, they should firstly talk this through with their Observer and agree a plan and, if this is not satisfactory, contact the Chief Observer to request reallocation to another Observer, at the Chief Observer's discretion. ORTANT This is IMP
Ready for your Test …….
"The IAM has told all examiners that candidates’ driving licence photo cards must be valid, otherwise the test will not take place. Previously the test would have gone ahead and the candidate would have been advised to get it sorted." Page 10
SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
Events Calendar January 2012– March 2012 SAM Event
SAM Sunday(1st)
Other Events January The 10th Malvern Drive In Classic Car & Bike Autojumble, (29th)Three Counties Showground.
January Club Night (10th) February SAM Sunday (6th)
Carole Nash Motorcycle show (2nd-5th) Excel London
February Club Night(14th)
12th Classic Japanese Motorcycle Show & Jumble (5th) Donington Park 14th Newbury Classic Car & Bike Show & Jumble (5th) Newbury Race course Carole Nash Classic Motorcycle show—Bristol (18th-19th) 3rd London International Classic & Custom Bike Show (26th) Alexandra Palace WSB Phillip Island Australia (26th) March
March Club Night (13th)
Real Classic Motorcycle Show & Bikejumble (11th) South of England showground, Ardlingly Maxxis ACU British Motocross Championship Round 1 (11th) Fatcat Doncaster.
Group ride out (18th) (Details TBA)
Pioneer Run (18th) (London to Brighton Vintage Mcles) Madeira Drive Brighton
Group ride out (25th) (Details TBA)
VMCC BRITISH HISTORIC RACING (22nd) Mallory Park
The Ace Cafe London run events every weekend, see www.acecafeevents.com for further details
Key: (SAM Events) RL (Run Leader), SM(Start Meet), EA(End At), (Other events) BSB—British Super Bikes
Note: Check the web site for the latest SAM Events programme. The source for the other events are varied and include some of the links mentioned below.
Not found something of interest in the list above? There are a number of useful web sites to watch depending upon your particular interest. I have compiled the following short list: • http://www.mag-uk.org/en/eventslist • http://www.thebikerguide.co.uk/bikerrallies.html • http://sump-publishing.co.uk/classic%20bike%20events.htm • http://www.cernunnos-mcc.org/whatson • http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/RidingEvents/ • http://www.acu.org.uk/events/ If you know of an event or show that may be of interest to other members in the months January — March 2012, drop a line to editor@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk with dates, contact details and any other information that would be useful, and it will be added to the list.
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SAM SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS
January 2012
YOUR COMMITTEE Role
Member
Email Address
Chairman
Kevin White
chairman@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Club Secretary
Logan Colbeck
secretary@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Public Relations Treasurer
David Forster Sam Davis
public-relations@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk treasurer@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Chief Observer
Alec Gore
chief-observer@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Membership Secretary
Nigel Grace (temp)
membership@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
MDU Co-ordinator
Tim Bennett
mdu@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Webmaster
Rui De Castro
webmaster@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Club Night Organiser
Mark Rowe / Martin Thomas
club_night@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Associate Co-ordinator
Amanda Spur
associate-coordinator@solent-advancedmotorcyclists.co.uk
Merchandise
Ian Kennard
merchandise@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Magazine Editor
Rod Griffin
editor@solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Wearing your jacket backwards ! (More from www.motoroads.com) Two guys were roaring down the road on a motorcycle when the driver slowed up and pulled over. His leather jacket had a broken zipper, and he told his friend, "I can't drive anymore with the air hitting me in the chest like that." "Just put the jacket on backwards." His friend advised. They continued down the road but around the next bend, they lost control and wiped out. A nearby farmer came upon the accident and ran to call the police. They asked him, "Are they showing any signs of life?" "Well," the farmer explained, "the driver was until I turned his head around the right way!"
One Liners (Courtesy of www.onelinerz.net)
• • •
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I saw a woman wearing a sweat shirt with "Guess" on it...so I said "Implants?" Crowded elevators smell different to midgets.
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When in doubt, mumble. Caption Competition October 2011
•
“Due to the cost of fuel, TT goes Eco”. Entry sent in by A.Non, IoM
If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you! Better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to speak and remove all doubt. I didn't say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.
Caption Competition. Send your suggestion to editor@solent-advancedmotorcyclists.co.uk
DISCLAIMER Many of the views expressed in this SAM Newsletter are personal to the author and publication does not imply endorsement of any article, any author or any organisation. Views expressed are not necessarily in accordance with the policies or the views of the IAM or SAM. Where articles are reproduced from other publications or authors, unreserved acknowledgement is given to the source. No responsibility is accepted by the Editor or SAM for any damage to intelligence or riding abilities, howsoever caused which might result from reading this publication.
Prize (TBA) to the published response.
Advanced notice: The following edition of ‘Making Progress’ is scheduled for April 2012, please ensure all contributions are submitted by 10th March. Advice on submitting articles: send in your article in the form of a word document, plain text or in the body of the email. Images should be accompanied by a caption, i.e. file name - caption, if not I will apply my own. So get busy, write and send them in. Page 12