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The IAM Aims
MANSELL TAKES F1 Racing legend Nigel Mansell is to be the new President of the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists). Mansell passed his Advanced Driving Test last August, 19 years after scoring his first Formula One victory at Brands Hatch. As IAM President, Mansell brings a lifetime of driving experience to the IAM. “I believe driving expertise isn’t just for the race track,” said Mr Mansell. “My grandfather always told me that it is no good lying on a hospital bed saying ‘But I had the right of way’.That is why drivers can gain so much from preparing for their IAM test. “I am honoured to take the Presidency of such a well regarded organisation and I hope that in this, its 50th Anniversary Year, we can inform and educate more drivers and riders than ever before,” he said. Welcoming the appointment, IAM Chairman John Maxwell said: “I am delighted that Nigel has accepted the invitation to be our new President. He is a well respected public figure, with immense driving experience. As well as his legendary track record, Nigel has consistently campaigned for safety on the road and I know that drivers of all ages will regard him as a leading proponent of safety, both on and off the track.”
To improve the standard of driving (and riding) on the UK roads.
CAPTION COMPETITION:
THE WHEEL AT THE IAM
sam
March 2006
SOLENT ADVANCED M OTO R C Y C L I S T S
The Advancement of Road Safety. The Administration of an Advanced Test.
March 06
MAKING
progress
Answers via email to:
sam.newsletter@btinternet.com
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Diary of Events
With 31 Grand Prix wins, Nigel Mansell already has his place in the Formula One Hall of Fame. He has joined racing drivers John Surtees, the late Graham Hill, Sir Stirling Moss and motorcyclist Geoff Duke who have all passed their IAM test. The first IAM President was Lord Sempill and the most recent was HRH The Duke of Gloucester, who held the position for 32 years.
p6 Five Get Wet...
A lady biker has a heart attack and is taken to the hospital. While
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Most 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 those of the authors, and 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.
Help us make progress with a contribution towards the next issue. Pics in jpeg format please.
Newsletter email address is sam.newsletter@btinternet.com
Driving on the SubContinent
to BMW or not to BMW...
Thrills & Spills
By Dave Tilbury
or a good many years now I have been in the very fortunate position of owning two bikes - one for trail riding and one for greater distance on the road. But, like so often happens, you forget just how privileged you are and want something different. I sold the DR350 (something I regret as it was a competent, quiet and comfortable trail bike) and I gave the ZZR600 to my son, who was without a bike at the time.
F
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The ZZR had not lived up to my expectations, particularly in the comfort and handling departments. In particular, I found that journeys of an hour or more caused considerable pain to the wrists and, after a little longer, my back. So, I gave thought to what I wanted a bike to do, which was tour, with some off tarmac capability (the ZZR was not ace at this, but has seen many a lane) and provide everyday transport.
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DISCLAIMER
Design & artwork by KF:D LTD Fordingbridge, 01425 654557
on the operating table, she had a near death experience. Seeing God, she asked, “Is my time up?” God other 43 years, 2 said, “No, you have an live.” months, and 8 days to n decided to stay in ma Upon recovery, the wo facelift, liposuction, the hospital and have a she had so much and tummy tuck. Since roads to ride, she more time to live, new ll look even nicer. figured she might as we n, she was released After her last operatio riding her from the hospital. While s run into by a motorcycle home, she wa . Arriving in front of delivery truck and killed thought you said I had God, she demanded, “I w come you didn’t pull another 40+ years? Ho t freakin’ truck?” me out of the path of tha ognize you.” God replied, “I didn’t rec
INSIDE p3
Registered Charity No. 1097558
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March 2006
S A M S O L E N T A DVA N C E D M OTO R C Y C L I S T S
March 2006
Hi Each Well it’s now March and the winter is nearly behind us again, time to dust off the bike, check the tyres etc remember POWER - Petrol, Oil, Water, Electric and Rubber. Get the boots and leathers out to see if they still fit! Now check out the Diary in this Newsletter and pick some dates to join in the activities being laid on for you by SAM both serious and social. Don’t forget we have our AGM in May, the 50th Anniversary of the IAM in May, and we have the Beaulieu Show in June - so much going on and so much for you to get involved with, and all the time, in the background; the main function of the Group is quietly going on - Observed Rides by a team of dedicated and sometimes unsung workers - the Group’s Observers and Senior Observers led by the Chief Observer John Goodson. So, think about all the hours and miles that they have done in order to get you your Green Badge now see if you can put something back into the Group. On the subject of unsung heroes - I personally would like to thank our Assistant Editor, Graphics Designer and SAM Member Kim Formhalls of KF:D Ltd for her brilliant work on this Newsletter and thanks also to Claire for her help with proof reading. Also thanks go to Graeme, Kim and Colin who are currently upgrading the graphics for the MDU.
Nigel Grace Editor
Strictly Come Biking SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS CELEBRA TE THE 50th ANNIVERSARY OF THE INSTITUTE OF ADV ANCED MOTORISTS
on Sunday 7th May 2006 at
THE ROSE BOWL Function and Conference Cent re Hampshire County Cricket Ground Botley Road,West End, Southampton. SO30 3XH 50 MOTORCYCLISTS FROM HAMPSHIRE, each a member of the IAM, will ride their motorcycles in small groups through the beautiful Hampshire countryside. Joining them will be many personalities and celebrities from the world of Politics, Sport and the Media.To enhance the profile of motorcycli ng in Hampshire, local Motorcycle Dealers will be providing some VIPs with loan mach ines for the ride. VIPs will be served a Lunchtime reception buffet at 12:30 and High Tea at 4.30. in THE HAMPSHIRE SUITE and SAM members will be invited to join our guests. The Ride will commence at 2.00pm. THE SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS ARE DEDICATED TO IMPROVING RIDING SKILLS IN HAMPSHIRE Registered Charity No. 1097558. www.solent-adva nced-motorcyclists.co.uk
SAM Run - Sunday 05 February 2006 As I made myself a cup of tea this morning a little voice asked “Have I got time to get dressed and come with you?” Given the ice on the water outside I wasn’t sure if she was serious. She was! So it was that two of us arrived at the statue of King Alfred in Winchester. Mike gave the usual pre-run briefing (whilst one person took a greater interest in the kitchen shop) and we were promptly off in the direction of Romsey. Through Ampfield and right into Jermyns Lane; right again and on through Braishfield, taking the back road (Furzdown Road) to King’s Somborne. We followed the A3057 towards Andover, turning right to Wherwell on the B3420, to take in the hairpin. There’s not many like that in Hampshire. We followed the Test up to Hurstbourne Priors, where we turned onto the B3400, which we followed through to Basingstoke.
Q u a l i t y M o t o rc y c l e A c c e s s o r i e s Our objective is very simple to provide the best products at the best prices with unrivalled customer service
Now, we see some pretty odd things when riding around but to be stuck behind a car at a roundabout, where the young driver stalls the car, then slips between the seats into the back, as an older woman slides across into the driving seat was one of those little gems. I was keen to get alongside the car to see just how young the original driver was, but it was not to be. A short drive down the A339, turning left at Cabbage Patch Corner, took us to Lasham Flying Club and a coffee stop. Here, as the sun shone hot through the windows, we watched as gliders were winched into the sky.We ate cake, drank warm drinks and chatted.
A d v a n c e d M o t o rc y c l e I n s t r u c t i o n “As good as training gets”
www.GOBYBIKE.com PA G E 2
Two left the main group after coffee and the remaining six bikes returned to the A339 and rode down to Alton.We finished with a bit of the A32, as far as the West Meon Hut, where we went our separate ways. A good ride was made complete when some silly s*d in front of me made an indicator free right turn into the restricted access at Fair Oak.To my immense satisfaction I rode past the other end of that ‘short cut’ to be in front of that same car. As childish as it might be, I enjoyed that. So what were the roads like? It was a cool ride, until the sun came out.The roads were damp and initially at least, there was the risk of ice. Personally I feel I gained in confidence in the handling of the current bike, riding at a pace that I might not have attained had I been two up and alone with such surface conditions. Our thanks to Mike for a good ride.
A Member of West Sussex Advanced Motorcyclists has set up a company in Tuscany, running motorcycle tours around that region of Italy. The details are below - just check out the website: Dave Marsh, Tuscan Moto Tours, Via Roma 46, Interno 12, 54013, Fivizzano, M.S, Italia. Phone: 0039 0585 947280 - Mobile: 0039 3488 538239 E-mail: info@tuscanmototours.com
www.tuscanmototours.com
SAM Polo-shirts
Black long or shor t sleeve shirts embroidere d with the Club name - alway s available to buy at Club Nig hts. Sizes XXL to Small. Long Sleeves £18. 50 Short Sleeves £15.00
Books and Videos
The Assessment of Advanced Motorcy cling £4.50 Know your Traffic Signs £3.00 How to be an Adv anced Motorcyclis t £7.99 Motorcycle Roadc raft (Blue Book) £11.99 Mike Waites Vide o £14.99 Top Rider Video £14.99 Contact Kate Dav ies Tel
01962 840954
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DIARY OF EVENTS 06 MARCH Sun 19 SAM Social Run - Ower David Charlton Tue 21 SAM Committee Meeting Sun 26 SAM Social Run - Winchester Dave Tilbury APRIL
Sun 2 Sun 2 Sun 9 Tue 11 Sun 16 Mon 17 Tue 18 Sun 23 Sun 30
MAY
Mon 1 Sun 7
Tue 9 Sat 20 Sun 21 Tue 23
Sun 28 Sun 28 Sun 28 JUNE
Sun 4 Sat 10 Sun 11 Sun 11 Tue 13 Sun 18 Tue 20 Sat 24 Sun 25 Sun 25 Sun 25 Tue 27
BSB Oulton Park IAM 50th Year Event by SAM Strictly Come Biking Rose Bowl SAM Annual General Meeting at The Centre 2000, Hedge End Motormart Autojumble Beaulieu SAM Social Run Evening Ride - 1930 King Alfred’s Statue Winchester or Sainsbury’s Fareham SAM Social Run WSB Silverstone BSB Mallory Park SAM Training Day - The Police System of Motorcycle Control SAM “Making Progress” publication day SAM Social Run BSB Knockhill SAM Club Night SAM Social Run SAM Committee Meeting Motorcycle World - Beaulieu Motorcycle World - Beaulieu SAM Social Run BSB Snetterton Evening Ride - 1930 King Alfred’s Statue Winchester or Sainsburys Fareham
•
All Social Runs are conducted in line with the Club Guidelines Doc 10 and Doc 11
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Full details are announced on SAM Announce shortly before the run
•
Full details are also available from the Run Leader or Ian Cooper -Social Runs Co-ordinator
•
We cannot guarantee that the details of the run will not be changed before the event, but every effort will be made to adhere to them.
•
Please check if in doubt with Ian Cooper -Social Runs Co-ordinator
02380 410 690
CHAIRMAN’S
JUNE
30-3
SAM French Trip (Fri 30th - Mon 3rd Jul)
JULY
Sun 2
SAM Training Day - Advanced Cornering SAM Bar-B-Q at Hordean Woods and ride-out SAM Social Run SAM Club Night SAM Social Run MotoGP Donnington Park SAM Committee Meeting Ride to Work Day, see www.mcia.co.uk BSB Oulton Park Evening Ride - 1930 King Alfred’s Statue Winchester or Sainsburys Fareham SAM Social Run
Sat 8
SAM Social Run - Meon Hut BSB Brands Hatch SAM Social Run - Wickham Dave Barrett SAM Club Night SAM Social Run - Ower BSB Thruxton SAM Committee Meeting SAM Social Run - Meon Hut Paul Nol SAM Social Run - Winchester Darren Mansfield
Sun 9 Tue 11 Sun 16 Sun 16 Tue 18 Wed 19 Sun 23 Tue 25
Sun 30 AUG
Sun 6 Sun 6 Tue 8 Sun 13 Sun 13 Tue 15 Sun 20 Tue 22
Sun 27 Mon 28 SEPT
Sun 3 Sat 9 Sun 10 Sun 10 Tue 12 Sun 17 Tue 19 Sun 24 Sun 24
OCT
Sun 1
March 2006
SAM Training Day - Aims of Advanced Motorcycling WSB Brands Hatch (TBC) SAM Club Night SAM Social Run BSB Croft SAM Committee Meeting SAM Social Run Evening Ride - 1930 King Alfred’s Statue Winchester or Sainsburys Fareham SAM Social Run BSB Cadwell Park SAM Training Day - Making Progress Safely SAM “Making Progress” publication day SAM Social Run BSB Silverstone SAM Club Night SAM Social Run SAM Committee Meeting SAM Social Run BSB Donington Park GP
Sun 8 Sun 8 Tue 10 Sun 15 Tue 17 Sun 22 Sun 29
SAM Training Day - Observer Training SAM Social Run Brands Hatch GP SAM Club Night SAM Social Run SAM Committee Meeting SAM Social Run SAM Social Run
NOV
Sun 5 Sun 12 Tue 14 Sun 19 Tue 21 Sun 26
SAM Social Run SAM Social Run SAM Club Night SAM Social Run SAM Committee Meeting SAM Social Run
Dec
Sat 2
SAM “Making Progress” publication day Sun 3 SAM Social Run Sat 9 SAM Club Night Sun 10 SAM Social Run Tue 12 SAM Christmas Social Event Sun 17 SAM Social Run
chat
here is a feeling of spring in the air as I write this column. The daffodils are bursting up through the soil and the roads beginning to shed that winter feel and SAM is a hive of activity with the Officers and committee working away like beavers planning the events and activities for the coming season.
T
I am a `Biker` at heart and becoming Chairman was not really my intention when I joined SAM, but here I am and I must say that at first I did not think I would enjoy it very much. However, that has all now changed and I find that I am actually enjoying myself doing the job. What makes it all so much better is the splendid committee members that SAM has at this moment. I hope that they, like me, are also enjoying themselves. Our Free Assessed ride/Training Days, that will be organised by Colin Backhouse this year, will start in May and we must be prepared for the sudden increase in membership that will surely occur as these get under way. The MDU is being refurbished with new graphics and a full mechanical check over, so we are all looking forward to seeing it in use very soon. The IAM are celebrating their 50th Anniversary this May and SAM is having a big party to celebrate the event on Sunday May 7th at the Rose Bowl and every single member of SAM is invited. We have space for 240 so don’t let us down. Put it in your diaries now and send off the booking form with your cheque for afternoon tea and also the Buffet Lunch if you wish to join us for that as well. Several of the Club nights at the Fleming Arms have been full to bursting and this has prompted us to move the venue for the AGM on the 9th May to Hedge End. We are expecting at least 100 of you to attend. I could say that there will be `free beer`, but we don’t have space for 240! If you would like to become involved in running SAM and you have the skills required, why not join our busy committee, now is the time to get yourself nominated. Talking about skills, several members have approached me recently saying that they would like their riding skills re-assessed as several years have passed since their IAM Advanced Test. Of course, we do have our SAM Advanced Plus Test, but perhaps there is a gap that needs to be filled. The IAM `Skills for Life` package does not stop us from getting a bit rusty and no doubt we do need to polish up our riding shills now and again. So perhaps we could expand our Training to include full members and not just associates. Well, that’s enough writing for now, I’m going out on my bike for a nice ride.
Gerry Gooch. PA G E 3
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March 2006
Riding buddies
ANNOUNCEMENT
Is it me, or are there three main types? GAVIN
1ST TIME FRED
Met at college years ago due to mutal love of bikes, he now owns a successful company. He is very focused & driven. Never married, but has a stream of pretty girlfriends - who can only put up with him for a few weeks. Owns a big house with a dream garage of fast cars, a jetski, quads, moto-x bikes. R1 road bike is never more than 12 months old with a stack of expensive modifications. Warms up engine by taking it up to the limiter 1st thing Sunday morning, Absolutely impossible to ride with, rides flat out everywhere - except 30mph towns, but then wheelies while overtaking through on-coming traffic. His latest trick is to pull fast rolling stoppies through speed cameras.
Is a work colleague who has always ‘fancied a motorbike’ - wife is mortified Fred will die on the 1st gentle ride out (that you promised him all those weeks ago). He has spent all the money his wife was secretly saving (for a new three piece suite) on the 5 day Test course, a wicked Dianesse Leather jacket & a down payment on a brand new ER5. Fred’s cash pool has now run out & is getting by with a cheap open face, grinding goggles, yellow nylon waterproof trousers, brown office shoes with blue diamond pattern socks to complete the ensemble! He questions me seriously on either ski mittens or gardening gloves - its mid August.
No matter how psychotic he rides his bike, there are no points on licence & never crashes. MAURICE Great bloke, rides a Guzzi Le Mans at a good pace but safe, hilarious off the bike can keep people in stitches for hours, very down to earth likeable, laid back - very laid back infact hopelessly unreliable. Never ever ready, if you are lucky he will only be very late - usual scenario is to go to his flat two hours before the ride starts to: Get him out of bed find his riding gear, sort his hangover, search for bike keys, wallet & mobile only to find the Guzzi in the shed with a flat front tyre & a cylinder head off.
PA G E 4
Time for the ride & his two befreckled kids are looking worriedly at their dad “Now don’t worry kids, you’re dad & I are going for a nice short gentle ride that’s all” I say. Fred astride the ER5, starts up the engine - Fred looses his footing falls over with the familiar splintering sound of a smashed mirror, indicator & snaps the brake lever, the throttle jams wide open. Poor Fred is stuck under the bike, engine wailing & backfiring - now wife is verging on hysteria the kids start screaming.............. “ Its OK, its OK” I say killing the motor & hauling the bike off Fred who is now hopping around the garden, minus one brown shoe! The stubby brake lever points at me like an accusing finger. I just want to go home. So when you see a Johnny Nomates (me) solo rider, this is probably why.
SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING at 2000 Centre, St Johns Road, Hedge End Southampton SO30 4AF
Tuesday 9th May 2006
8.00pm
SAM SUMMER BARBECUE & RIDE Another great social event for SAM SATURDAY 8th JULY CLANFIELD WOODS HORNDEAN he venue is in natural unspoilt private woodlands owned by SAM member Alvin Wilby who says that responsibly ridden trail bikes will be welcome to explore the private paths around the 9 acre site.An air pistol shooting range will also be provided and children will enjoy the freedom of the woods that have many wild flowers, butterflies and deer.
T
This will be a double attraction event.An afternoon ride starting from Wickham Square at 1.00 and arriving at the barbecue at 3.00. Other members travelling with their families and friends may make their own way, by car if preferred, to the Barbecue that will start at 3.00. Maps and instructions will be provided. Cost will be £3.00 per person with under 16s at half price. (families and grandchildren very welcome). The menu, that will be subsidised by SAM, will offer a good gastronomic choice and include a cold drink. Please bring your own chairs, beer or wine. Send your reservation with cheque to made payable to, `Solent Advanced Motorcyclists` to,The event Administrators Phil & Trisha North, 1 Ivy Court, Purbrook,Waterlooville, Hants. PO 7 5JT or email philnorth@ntlworld.com Gerry Gooch
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COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND OTHER CONTACTS
March 2006
SURVIVAL REACTIONS -
Chairman:
Gerry Gooch
01329 832416
Vice Chairman
Colin Backhouse
02380 871642
Secretary:
Rex Brittian
01489 784398
Treasurer:
Godwin Calafato
02380 253109
Chief Observer:
John Goodson
02380 692959
Membership Secretary:
Paul Nol
02392 710929
by Andy Ibbott California Superbike School Director (Europe)
Web Master:
Kevin Parsons
01329 280902
TENSING
Events:
Mark Bowley
02380 675979
The Problem
Public Relations:
Neil Davies
079200 57686
Social Rides Co-ordinator:
Ian Cooper
02380 410690
Skills Development:
Colin Backhouse
02380 871642
Regalia:
Kate Davies
01962 840954
When we enter a situation that we are uncomfortable with, whether it be speed, place in a corner or an unpredicted hazard one of the first reactions we have is to tense up, brace or impact if you will.
Newsletter:
Nigel Grace
01425 472021
IAM Headquarters Chiswick 020 89969600
www.solent-advanced-motorcyclists.co.uk
Our biggest barrier to confident riding
This means we lose some of our control of the machine we are riding. If your arms are locked solid there is no way you will be able to take avoiding action because you have just lost the ability to steer your bike! The Solution Relax! Take stock of the situation and take control of what you need to do to avoid the hazard. The Drill
I remember when motorcycles were dangerous and sex was safe! - A Biker’s T-shirt Fifteen Grand and Fifteen Miles don’t make you a biker
When was the last time you checked to see if you were really relaxed and at ease when you rode? Some riders will tense on every single corner they ride - and hold their breath from enter to apex to exit! Check your breathing as the moment your hold your breath you will be too tense. Do this in the middle of every corner you ride until you can recognise the instant you start to stop breathing.
SHUTTING THE THROTTLE The Problem This is one of the big ones, getting into trouble in a corner and slamming the throttle shut. It is guaranteed to send your bike off line and combined with the tension that creates you are very likely to end up running wide unless you can add a steering input of some sort to correct that - and run in too tight! The Solution Keep on line by keeping the throttle rolling on through the corner, allowing the bike to remain balanced. The Drill When was the last time you actually took notice of when you started applying the throttle? The idea here is for you to think when you got it on, and how much you rolled it on before the exit. This will allow you to identify when you stop doing it and how the bike feels at that point. Closing the throttle transfers weight to the front of the bike and doesn’t allow the suspension to work correctly as it has too much to cope with. This in turn can overload the front tyre. By recognising what we are doing with the throttle we are less likely to snap it closed improperly.
Relax! Take stock of the situation and take control of what you need to do to avoid the hazard.
Forget about World Peace.....Visualize Using Your Turn Signal ! Get a new bike for your spouse it’ll be a great trade! PA G E 5
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March 2006
Café - great food and a chance to dry the visors and change the gloves for another dry pair. Then up and over the hill to Abbotsbury, Portesham, Dorchester, Blandford, Horton and Ringwood before drawing to a halt at the Little Chef for a large hot coffee and a 3rd pair of dry gloves. It was a good ride despite the foul weather and I thank all four riders for turning out. It was a good opportunity to test those biking bits and see how they faired in such weather - lots of talk about waterproof gloves and I must admit that once the water was inside my gloves there was no way that it wanted to come out !, but the two piece waterproofs I had recently purchased from Bikers Yard - brilliant. Thanks again for a good day out and thanks Eddie for Tail-ending.
Five Get Wet in Dorset by Nigel Grace unday 19th February started wet and it just did not stop raining. It was impressive to see 5 big touring bikes lined up ready for the off at Ower, and funnily enough the single Honda Pan European did not look too out of place alongside the 4 BMWs. We had a leisurely trip over Godshill to Fordingbridge before the pace got just a little warmer towards Blandford and then on to deepest Dorset. The pace remained just under “Moderate” as the constant rain was working it’s wonders by lifting all the diesel from the roads - this was not the type of conditions for anything too brisk - it was just so wet.
S
Onwards and upward traveled the five through the twists and turns from Blandford to Lydlinch on the A357, A3030 and then the A352 to Longburton for a well deserved coffee stop. (Note The Rose and Crown at Longburton is so very friendly that I will be leading another ride in the summer to have Lunch there. Well worth it - Watch for dates).
PS. I only carry spare gloves because there is only one thing worse than putting your hands back into cold, wet gloves...... and my children have grown up now so I don’t have to do that anymore......
Nigel
Still raining and it was off to the beach for lunch at the Hive Beach
CHIEF OBSERVER’S REPORT MARCH 2006 hard work that you have done over the last couple of years. But although Chris will be missed we plan to go forward and Colin Backhouse has offered to try and continue where Chris left off, I am confident that Colin will continue to see that SAM progresses in the way it has over the last few years. ere we are again with another edition of making progress, also making progress are the test passes a big increase on last years figures. At the time of writing this report on 26th February we have had a total of 44 passes since the AGM in April 2005, I hope that we can achieve 50 plus passes by the time we have our AGM this year.
H
It goes with out saying that without the input from all the observers we have we wouldn’t be in this fine position, I thank you all for your dedication and commitment in giving of your time and expertise. It is with regret that I have to report that Chris Robinson has decided to resign from being our training coordinator, thanks Chris for all your PA G E 6
This edition will be the last before our training sessions begin in May, so I hope that we can look forward to receiving as many willing new associates as we have in previous years. I will not be present for the May 7th training as my newest grandchild is being christened on this day, so for once I am under orders to put family first. I took Steve Clothier out recently for his re-qualification as senior observer, needless to say no problems on that and Steve continues in his role as S/O for another 3 years. We also have Kevin Parsons as Qualified observer and Peter Johnson as Senior due for their re-
There’s a fell ow who is an avid rid er. Actually he’s a motorcycle fa natic. He has
not missed a weekend of motorcycl e riding in ye qualifications in April. ars. Every Saturd ay and Sund ay m or ning he gets I would also like to congratulate up very early and go those who have passed their es meets his buddies for a tests since the last news letter, nice long ride . On this one m they are as follows up too 26th orning, he ge ts up early, gets February. dressed, gets his riding ge ar out of the Petra Willoughby, Graeme closet and go es out to the Smith, Sam Watts, Russell garage to pr epare to leav Parslow, Paul Middleton, Daniel e. While out ther e it started Murray, James Cole, Stephen raining a torr Hunt, Peter Friend, Martin ential downpour. Th Jenrick, David Maddock, ere was snow mixed with th Clifford Small, David e rain and th e wind is blow Woolston, Ken Kenyon & ing at 30 mph . H e comes back in David Parr. to the house and tu rns the TV to Also to let you all know I the Weather Channel. Fr have traded my faithful old om there he find s it’s going to Pan European in for a new be bad weather all day long. Blackbird, which I purchased So he puts his bi ke back into on 21st January so still in the garage an d comes back the process of running in inside. He qu ietly undresse and total enjoyment with s and slips back the bike. into bed where he cu ddles up to hi s Well that’s about it for this wife’s back, and whisper s, edition other than to “The weather out there is ensure you all ride safe. terrible.” To which she John Goodson replies, “Can you believe m y stupid husband is ou t riding his bike today?”
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to BMW or not to BMW... I looked at a Tiger, at a big KTM and at a BMW GS.The Tiger didn’t really hit the spot and the vile colours gave me the excuse to strike it from the list. The KTM was, for me, too trail oriented, and it has a one-piece seat, which I thought would be a source of contention with my wife on the back. So I had to take a look at the BMW. As I rode up to the nearest BMW dealership I pondered the expense, the height, the expense, the fact that the ZZR wasn’t too bad, really, and that the BMW would be expensive. After all, here am I pottering along at 80 - absolutely fine. I don’t need to go any faster on nice B roads like this... And so it was that I arrived at the BMW dealer in a negative mood. I showed my license, signed the waiver, threw my leg over an R1150GS and pottered off down the same road that I’d been so happy to ride on the ZZR just minutes before. Hmmm, very pleasant, thought I. Less wind than I’d expected, Wonderfully comfortable. Spot on riding position, and it does seem to overtake and pull away quite well. After all, I want the change because of riding position and comfort, and, at my age I can cope with bimbling along like this.... %*@% me!!! I’m doing 90! Forty miles later I signed the sale agreement for a second hand R1150 GS. So, what is I like? This bike gave me the most memorable day of 2005 (don’t tell my wife that). I left home early on the morning of 2nd September and rode up the A34 to the Ridgeway. Along the Ridgeway for a short distance and then, by country lanes and byways, made my way down to Inkpen. Wishing to avoid certain lanes, for obvious reasons, I discovered the village of Kintbury - a delightful and very photogenic place - a place that I will return to one day. Up to the gibbet and on to the A4 at Hungerford. The A4, or the Old Bath Road, is a classic road to ride. The history, the horse troughs and mile stones, the good surface and sight-lines, not to mention (be warned) the newly installed speed cameras - not that I needed worry.
Not long ago I was peripherally involved in a rights of way case, which pitted byway users against the Secretary of State for the Environment over a decision made by one of the Lord Chancellor’s Independent Inspectors. This case centred on an old carriageway just to the west of Hungerford and as ‘we’ had won I thought I’d take a look at the route, known as Preshute 12. I headed in that direction. Passing through Marlborough, that delightful but car
choked town in the downs, I spotted a parking space on the sunny side of the street, right out side a coffee shop, and took this as a sign from the great sky pixy to stop for a quick cake and coffee. Preshute 12 looked a tad too overgrown from about halfway down and so I turned around and headed south, over Knap Hill to the Wessex Ridgeway, down to Lark Hill and on down the byway past Stonehenge to the A303. I left tarmac again at Shipton Bellinger and did a circuit of Tidworth, dropping south to the last ‘green’ lanes of the day at Broughton. I’d covered 203 miles at speeds varying from 10 mph to, well.... to what is known euphemistically as ‘making good progress’. I was not stiff or tired. I had not dropped the bike, or even come near it. If the BMW has a fault it is that for trail riding, first gear is a bit high, especially when approaching those ‘decision time’ bits of lane - or maybe I’m just getting mentally slow.
March 2006
The only other fault, if you can call it a fault, is the lack of any impression of speed. This is fortunately compensated for in the bikes ability to go round bends.The riding position gives a commanding view of the road for overtaking and the acceleration is ‘quite acceptable’. It has proved to be a useful means of transport. With panniers attached and full of video kit, I can remove the pillion seat and strap a fair sized tripod across the back. I have received no complaints about the comfort of the pillion seat and the gentle impact of my wife’s helmet on my shoulders indicates that the ride is smooth enough for her to doze off on the M25, despite the lumpy surface. And, as if that wasn’t enough, the heated grips are now showing their worth.... Regrets? Well, other than selling the DR350, I guess I should have bought the newer 1200GS.
The Long Finger of the Law By Gerry Gooch
he 441cc BSA Victor was not going at all well.A few minutes earlier I had to resort to a bump start after running out of kicking energy and, even now, it was a rather reluctant runner, spitting back through the carb when I attempted to open the throttle. However, with a little help from the clutch I was managing to keep it alive as I made my way through the busy High Street.As the engine warmed, I even managed to get the odd “wheelie” for which the particular machine was renowned.
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I was so intent upon my test ride that I was paying little attention to my rear, so perhaps I should not have been quite so alarmed when the police motorcyclist appeared at my right elbow. The first finger of his left hand, oscillating to and fro signaled me to pull over. I knew that I was really for it this time. I began to add up all the rules I knew I was breaking: no insurance, no tax, no silencer, speedometer, horn chain guard, etc. Have you noticed the way that a policeman gets off his bike when he pulls you over? The left heel nonchalantly flicks out the side stand and in one slow movement he places his left foot on the ground, transfers his weight to it and gently swings his other leg over the seat, swiveling slightly to end up facing you. Although I had spent the best part of half an hour trying to start the BSA, now I could not stop the damned thing. The ignition had been by-passed by twisting two wires together.All I could do was stall the engine in first gear, resulting in a rather ungainly lurch towards the approaching officer of the law.
He came to a standstill just one pace from my left handlebar. I was still astride the machine, since it had no side stand. He slowly removed his glove from his right hand and raised his finger up to my chin. Until then not a word had passed between us. I had been struck dumb with severe apprehension and he was obviously biding his time.“In Zambia it is an offence to ride a motorcycle with the strap of your helmet undone.” With that he turned about, remounted his Honda 750 and zoomed off down the High Street at great speed. In the end we did manage to get the 441cc BSA to run a bit better, so together with the other two BSA`s and a Bultaco that the Zambian National Trade Fair committee had provided us with, we were able to give our two performances a day for 6 days. To this day I can’t believe my luck in not getting arrested on the spot, particularly as only two days later, one of the riders of my Motorcycle Display Team was languishing in jail for taking a photograph of Livingstone town centre oblivious that the shot included a Bank. I could tell you how I got him out, but that would be another story wouldn’t it.
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Bikes free to filter without fear Court overturns ruling on crash blame In a landmark court case last week, a motorcyclist’s victory overturned a long-standing ruling that has robbed many riders of compensation in the past. Jamie McColm, 28, from Cheltenham is the first motorcyclist in the UK to come away with a zero blame after he was knocked off his bike whilst filtering through traffic. The court case, lasting over three years, marks a major victory for British Bikers - the previous legal precedent (Powell v Moody 1966) favoured the car driver in such accidents and the biker was always deemed to be mostly at fault.
According to the Driving Standard Agency: “Its fine for motorcyclist to filter through traffic as long as they don’t breach the rules on overtaking in the Highway Code, and they ensure any filtering they do past traffic is safe” Note: There is no specific mention of filtering in the High Code, so motorcyclists must read the rules on overtaking. Sgt Brown from Durham Police agrees: All road users should read the Highway Code again. In the Rules for Motorcyclists section, rule 71 is
e arrived in Kolkata in the early hours so the roads were relatively clear. When we ventured out of our hotel in daylight, we experienced for the first time the chaos and cacophony of Indian traffic. The city roads are packed with cars, trucks, buses, auto-rickshaws, rickshaws, motorcycles, bicycles, people and cows. Out of the city, you can add camel carts, goats, monkeys and elephants to the equation.
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Drivers seem to loosely obey traffic lights but have no concept of the purpose of white lines. Even in major cities, anything goes. There was no consistent view on whether roundabouts should be taken in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction; the concept of lane discipline seemed entirely alien with cars drifting all of the time and the use of the horn is constant. After a while we started to understand the purpose of the horn; it’s usually a warning that you’re about to overtake. It means keep an eye open and don’t drift into me. Trucks and buses generally have a sign on the back saying “please hoot”. Yet in spite of the continuous use of the horn we saw no road rage at all. We were equally surprised by how few accidents there were in the cities and the skill of drivers and PA G E 8
riders at avoiding other vehicles while squeezing through impossibly small gaps. Driver skill is exercised to the limit each day at 14:00 when the flow of many one-way roads changes direction. No hazard and risk assessment, no coning-off and not even any police supervision during this risky procedure which takes place on hundreds of roads every day up and down the country. It’s quite amazing, the traffic just alters direction all on its own so that the evening rush hour can be eased a little! During our visit, we were driven from Delhi to Jaipur - a trip of some 5 hours, much of which was down a new dual carriageway with a substantial Armco barrier separating traffic in each direction. Heading South, we noticed how much heavier the North-bound traffic seemed. Those heading North made the same observation and several cars decided that it would be quicker for them to use our side of the road. By now it was dark and Mr Singh, our driver, seemed to take all of this in his stride while simultaneously avoiding cows sleeping on the tarmac, elephants and camel carts. Nighttime driving gets even more interesting due the reluctance of many drivers to use lights. Fortunately traffic does not seem
For full article see MCN 22nd February 2006 Page 2.
wanted...
Driving on the Sub-Continent I have driven in Paris, Berlin, LA, Detroit, Chicago, New York and Singapore. I have also been driven in Cairo, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Shanghai. But none of this prepared me for the roads in India this February, when we visited Kolkata (Calcutta), Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Goa and Mumbai (Bombay).
often used to argue filtering cases. It states: “When overtaking traffic queues, look for pedestrians crossing between vehicles and vehicles emerging from junctions.” The overtaking section says: Stay in lane if traffic is moving slowly. If the queue on your right is moving more slowly than you, you may pass on the left.
SAM CLUB NIGHT ORGANISER to go much faster than 85kph which certainly increases reaction times. Any quicker and I suspect it would be carnage. India is a massive construction site. With 10% GDP growth year on year, the requirement for infrastructure projects is relentless. As a consequence, there are huge numbers of trucks on the roads We saw several truck crashes - mostly involving them turning over. While the quality of maintenance is highly suspect, we were told the main cause of these crashes is driver fatigue definitely no tachographs in India. Motorcycles are probably the most common form of transport. Due to the heat nobody seems to wear what we would describe as effective protective clothing. Helmets seemed to be used in Delhi but less so in Mumbai, Kolkata and Goa. The most common bikes were 125cc of Japanese or Indian origin. I would guess that Enfields account for less than 5% of machines.
Mark Bowley, current Club Night Organiser, will be standing down at the next AGM in May 2006. We therefore require someone with flare, imagination and who is self-motivated and willing to take up this post. Our idea is to seek a replacement as soon as possible in order to give the new organiser a good handover period with instruction in the support he/she will get from the Committee and Membership. Our requirement is for a good mixture of Speakers; from Dealers and Manufacturers and a few purely social fun things. (Skittles, general get togethers etc). Once the forthcoming events programme has been worked out, the membership need to be kept informed by way of the SAM Announce system. The new organiser will of course join a dynamic Committee with lots of new challenges and an ever increasing SAM membership.
Personally, I would not entertain driving in Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur or Delhi. Mumbai seemed a little easier and Goa appeared relatively straightforward. I considered hiring an Enfield in Goa but never quite got around to it. I guess it was a combination of the heat and the IAM programming kicking in. I just could not quite bring myself to ride in shorts and sandals.
If this looks like the sort of thing you could handle please contact the undersigned and we will arrange a meeting to answer questions and give you help in making a decision.
Mike West
E-Mail rex.brittain@tiscali.co.uk
Rex W. Brittain Group Secretary SAM Tel 01489 784398
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One Last Check ..... then Relax by Nick Sanders (MCN Jan 18, 2006) Nick Sanders (www.motochallenge.com) knows a thing or two about long-distance riding, having ridden around the world several times. Here is his advice on what to check on your bike when you arrive home after a long tour. When you’ve been for an epic trip (or even a short one) it’s easy to feel that the first thing you should do after parking the bike is get inside, pat yourself on the back and start downloading your photos to send to MCN. For most people, giving their bike a once-over is far from the top of their list of priorities - but it shouldn’t be. Spending a little time when the trip is still fresh is a lot easier that coming back to your bike days later. If you wheel your bike straight into the garage there are things you’ll forget to do. It’s a good habit to stick a checklist to the garage wall before you go, and go through it when you arrive back. My top recommendation is to get to know your bike a bit better before you go. In the last mile or so before I stop I listen as best I can to how the bike sounds and also how it feels. In particular, does anything feel loose? When I get home, I park up the bike and leave the engine running for a couple of minutes. I then listen again without my helmet on and in this way I get to know the sound of my bike when it’s healthy. If at any point it stops sounding quite ‘right’, you might not know what the problem is, but you can take it for a more experienced second opinion as soon as possible. Getting back to our spot-tour checks, the first of these is the chain; to get an expert opinion on the matter I called Mark Celino, technical expert at Scottoiler. I used a Scottoiler, which lubes the chain while the bike is running, but for those who don’t he recommends spraying it with a good chain oil while still warm, as the lubricant still automatically thinned by the heat of the chain so the oil penetrates better into the rollers and links. If you do have an oiler, don’t forget to top it up regularly. As far as anti-corrosion products go, the well-known FS365 spray from Scottoiler does a great job of neutralizing salt spread on the road in winter. Salt is such a powerful agent when mixed with moisture that it can cause corrosion on exposed metal in less than 300 miles of riding. So, wash your bike down with fresh water and then spray on the product. The water content evaporates to leave behind a thin protective film. But wait until the pipes cool otherwise the oil will evaporate as well. As a word of warning, DO NOT be tempted to stop by the jet wash on the final leg of your trip; the power of the jet wash will push all that foreign grit that you’ve accumulated over the miles right back into wheel and suspension bearings. Another really important item that needs specific mention is your tyres. If the tyre has been worked at its full operational temperature for long periods of time, check for visual signs of wear, as a long trip might see you rack up the better part of a year’s mileage in one hit. Pat Keen at Cambrian Tyres explains that although the legal minimum tread depth is 1mm across three-quarters of the tyre’s width, they recommend a change at 2mm because much below that most riders will notice a distinct change of feel. Road-holding performance in the wet will deteriorate as well. Check the rims carefully and make sure that the tyre is seated well. Also, look at the side walls - if they are at all damaged anywhere, the tyres should be replaced. Lastly, look for nails. If you need to use your bike before you can get a new tyre, sort it out at night with a plug or tyre sealant. I use Punctureseal which is a decent product. Finally take a moment to do a quick check of your fluid levels. Oil and coolant will have hard time if you’ve done a long ride, so make sure they’re all topped up.
March 2006
Grumpy Old Biker ho’d have thought it - our Nige as President of the IAM. It’s an interesting appointment and presumably a further attempt to shake off the Institute’s “pipe and slippers” image as it reaches its fiftieth anniversary. I remember with great affection watching Mansell and Senna battling wheel to wheel when Formula One was still interesting to watch. I also remember Mansell receiving a six month ban in January 1998 for speeding in his turbo-charged Bentley. He was a Special Constable for the Devon and Cornwall police at the time, which presumably explains why he was dealt with so harshly.
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On balance, I think that the Mansell appointment is OK but it got me thinking again about the IAM attitude to Associates with points on their licences. Perhaps, I thought, the ivory tower has changed its policy so I gave them a call and was told that six points is the maximum permitted to start training. Funny old world, isn’t it? We can sustain a president with 9 points on his licence and appoint a new one who has been banned from driving. But we won’t allow new associates with more than 6 points to start training - the very people who, arguably, would most benefit. Heigh ho. You may recall amongst my grumblings last time that I suggested SAM was becoming older, greyer and failing to attracting younger members. Well I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw an email on SAM Announce inviting members to go line dancing or “some-such-thing” at a local village hall. As a sequel could I propose a beetle drive, coach trip to Bognor or perhaps a lecture on “advances in incontinence pants” (presumably these things have wings too)? And one more thing! A recent blast down the A272 reminded me of how fed up I get with some horsey people. I am not labelling them all, as some are good eggs. It’s the ones with double standards that really tick me off. You know the sort of thing; they expect total consideration by bikers when they are riding their beasts (quite right and proper) but as soon as they are behind the wheel with a horse box in tow things change. I understand that they must take things very smoothly for the sake of Dobbin but that does not preclude some reciprocal consideration. Pulling over once in a while to ease the congestion they have caused behind would be a good place to start. After the unseasonably cold weather of February the Grumpy Old Biker is looking forward to Spring and the opportunity to clock up some miles without losing sensation in the finger tips. As always, ride safely and keep honing those skills.
The Grumpy Old Biker. Disclaimer: Grumpy Old Biker is a periodic column written for the SAM newsletter. It is highly unlikely that the views expressed here are in any way representative of the IAM or SAM.
Remember ... use your mirrors. PA G E 9
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Gary KAWASAKI - by Griffiths FROM THIS ...............
March 2006
Thrills & Just a Few Spills This winter appears to have been a little “fun packed” for a few of our riders.
10th of morning, it was the First of all there was Gary Griffiths (see his item below), he came off a lot worse than I did (yes, t was a Saturday th John wi e was my 3rd rid yes yours truly dropped his BMW again this year and during the same month as last year - maybe on December 2005, it sing Goodson who is pas I should stay off the bike in Januarys). Thirdly there was rumor that our Hilary parted company to ver ser ob his skills as an with a Triumph 955 demonstrator fresh-out-the-box. me. that I read somewhere an to when turning up e sur ke ma e, rid observed eaky squ all is e bik ur yo y episode was not on ice, as was the , and Three Cross Motorcycles an clean, fuelled up case last year but a pair of brand new d So . nal sio fes pro g lookin Co ld Tyres - Cold Road!! Me: s BT020s fresh on the day before and with thi on e iat th John and his assoc By Hilar y Thompson only 56 wet miles on them, a very cold day when I had a ride wi jet wash an my bike. So to the cle to e and leaning over during a right hand turn out Saturday, I had som of ed went back to work at Three bike was in great ne Cross Motorcycles of the office car park. My speed very low it was, because the in August last year and was t. en tm par de ng lucky enough to and I lost the back end on the concrete TLC in the cleani land the job in sales at the Triumph Centre, for den about 100 having traveled just 20 feet. I ended up on rid I and age gar tho se of you who know me, Bike out of the road, and my back listening to the sound of 266kg of you will know just on at the top of my how much I enjoy my s wa Metres to the Juncti t tha job!! Having been , ffic tra the in BMW R1150RT making it’s steady progress ak bre a passionate about Triumphs was just waiting for for so long and having bit, EASE across the road - on it’s side - not a pleasant t, this was the hard owned four Daytonas as wel p the easy bit, pull ou dam ld co l as a few more in and es tyr ld sound that ! co of se between I couldn’t be hap on the throttle becau pier. Selling bikes however is not always as sim Then the reassuring sound of it coming to a road surface. ple or easy as it may k bac the app se ear from the punters side cau be ht rig halt against the kerb ouchhh. The damage t par t of the desk - but tha get I didn’t quite like it to the bike was light and other than a it’s always a lot of fun. front and spat me off the ake ert ov to tried the road swollen ankle and a very bruised ego I was K...my poor bike hit Unfortunately getting to hated me.... THWAC do a demo ride isn’t OK (yes, you guessed it - everyone was alw ays possible especially as I. did and so the Company has watching from the office windows....) a and dedicated “demo riders”, 00 to sort the bike, £6 how ut ever when good abo me st co Lesson learnt - don’t buy new tyres in So its but the friends ask if it is possible ow on my Left arm, for me personally to January and park around the back. broken wrist and elb w e no take them out I always try panels and paint hav and oblige. So a good part is that the couple of Saturdays ago, brig uld be on sho ine ch ma n ee ht and early in the Gr the and d ive arr morning, Jason (955i) and nth mo the Co of lin (Pan European) d en the the road at both good friends and mem the s ber wa s of SAM arrived s thi all in d I could fin to take out the Daytona 675 The funniest thing Triple and the Speed were a full I if and , tal spi ho in Triple 1050 respectively. It thought I had while was a bitterly cold day one call but bright and dry so I opted obser ver the ph to take my favourite : like bike, the demo 955i. I didn would go something ’t get very far!! Cold tyres - cold and shiny roa d, meant I met the , your “Hello Mr Smith tarm ac almost immediately, resu ng mi co lting in a hole in be Observer won’t the right elbow of my jack ed pp et and dro ’s great scrape he se cau today be marks up the right side of my leathers. g right at his bike while turnin I must say thank you to 5MPH” everyone who helped me, picked me up, dusted E me off and helped TH AT IS .....TO TH repair my pride. Jason and Colin were brilliant T from RIS W E TH OF K IC FL and fed me hot tea and dou ghnuts and I didn’t 0 to 5MPH feel my poor sore bruises until Sunday when I had to nurse my aching bod y and was feeling very sorry for myself. I guess eve n with thousands of miles of experience, advanc ed training and with all the will in the world we still have to respect all conditions and realise that these spills are JUNE 4th The Police System of M/C Control Peter Johnson often down to temporary lack of concentration, which of course we can ’t afford to have. Definitely a wake up call JULY 2nd Advanced Cornering Kevin Parsons & Chris Robinson for me! I am glad to report, thanks to my friends at work, the bike is now fully restored, I have got back on my bike AUG 6th Aims of Advanced Motorcycling Colin Backhouse and all is well. Of course I would be delighted to see anyone who would like to come to see the full range of Triumph bikes SEPT 3rd Making Progress Safely Steve Clothier and I will be happy to arrange a test ride for the m :) Tel: Three X Motorcycles 01202 810107 OCT 1st Observer Training Chris Robinson
I
BMW by Nigel Grace
TRIUMPH
M
I
SAM - Sunday Training 2006
Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday
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March 2006
Hi Each Well it’s now March and the winter is nearly behind us again, time to dust off the bike, check the tyres etc remember POWER - Petrol, Oil, Water, Electric and Rubber. Get the boots and leathers out to see if they still fit! Now check out the Diary in this Newsletter and pick some dates to join in the activities being laid on for you by SAM both serious and social. Don’t forget we have our AGM in May, the 50th Anniversary of the IAM in May, and we have the Beaulieu Show in June - so much going on and so much for you to get involved with, and all the time, in the background; the main function of the Group is quietly going on - Observed Rides by a team of dedicated and sometimes unsung workers - the Group’s Observers and Senior Observers led by the Chief Observer John Goodson. So, think about all the hours and miles that they have done in order to get you your Green Badge now see if you can put something back into the Group. On the subject of unsung heroes - I personally would like to thank our Assistant Editor, Graphics Designer and SAM Member Kim Formhalls of KF:D Ltd for her brilliant work on this Newsletter and thanks also to Claire for her help with proof reading. Also thanks go to Graeme, Kim and Colin who are currently upgrading the graphics for the MDU.
Nigel Grace Editor
Strictly Come Biking SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS CELEBRA TE THE 50th ANNIVERSARY OF THE INSTITUTE OF ADV ANCED MOTORISTS
on Sunday 7th May 2006 at
THE ROSE BOWL Function and Conference Cent re Hampshire County Cricket Ground Botley Road,West End, Southampton. SO30 3XH 50 MOTORCYCLISTS FROM HAMPSHIRE, each a member of the IAM, will ride their motorcycles in small groups through the beautiful Hampshire countryside. Joining them will be many personalities and celebrities from the world of Politics, Sport and the Media.To enhance the profile of motorcycli ng in Hampshire, local Motorcycle Dealers will be providing some VIPs with loan mach ines for the ride. VIPs will be served a Lunchtime reception buffet at 12:30 and High Tea at 4.30. in THE HAMPSHIRE SUITE and SAM members will be invited to join our guests. The Ride will commence at 2.00pm. THE SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS ARE DEDICATED TO IMPROVING RIDING SKILLS IN HAMPSHIRE Registered Charity No. 1097558. www.solent-adva nced-motorcyclists.co.uk
SAM Run - Sunday 05 February 2006 As I made myself a cup of tea this morning a little voice asked “Have I got time to get dressed and come with you?” Given the ice on the water outside I wasn’t sure if she was serious. She was! So it was that two of us arrived at the statue of King Alfred in Winchester. Mike gave the usual pre-run briefing (whilst one person took a greater interest in the kitchen shop) and we were promptly off in the direction of Romsey. Through Ampfield and right into Jermyns Lane; right again and on through Braishfield, taking the back road (Furzdown Road) to King’s Somborne. We followed the A3057 towards Andover, turning right to Wherwell on the B3420, to take in the hairpin. There’s not many like that in Hampshire. We followed the Test up to Hurstbourne Priors, where we turned onto the B3400, which we followed through to Basingstoke.
Q u a l i t y M o t o rc y c l e A c c e s s o r i e s Our objective is very simple to provide the best products at the best prices with unrivalled customer service
Now, we see some pretty odd things when riding around but to be stuck behind a car at a roundabout, where the young driver stalls the car, then slips between the seats into the back, as an older woman slides across into the driving seat was one of those little gems. I was keen to get alongside the car to see just how young the original driver was, but it was not to be. A short drive down the A339, turning left at Cabbage Patch Corner, took us to Lasham Flying Club and a coffee stop. Here, as the sun shone hot through the windows, we watched as gliders were winched into the sky.We ate cake, drank warm drinks and chatted.
A d v a n c e d M o t o rc y c l e I n s t r u c t i o n “As good as training gets”
www.GOBYBIKE.com PA G E 2
Two left the main group after coffee and the remaining six bikes returned to the A339 and rode down to Alton.We finished with a bit of the A32, as far as the West Meon Hut, where we went our separate ways. A good ride was made complete when some silly s*d in front of me made an indicator free right turn into the restricted access at Fair Oak.To my immense satisfaction I rode past the other end of that ‘short cut’ to be in front of that same car. As childish as it might be, I enjoyed that. So what were the roads like? It was a cool ride, until the sun came out.The roads were damp and initially at least, there was the risk of ice. Personally I feel I gained in confidence in the handling of the current bike, riding at a pace that I might not have attained had I been two up and alone with such surface conditions. Our thanks to Mike for a good ride.
A Member of West Sussex Advanced Motorcyclists has set up a company in Tuscany, running motorcycle tours around that region of Italy. The details are below - just check out the website: Dave Marsh, Tuscan Moto Tours, Via Roma 46, Interno 12, 54013, Fivizzano, M.S, Italia. Phone: 0039 0585 947280 - Mobile: 0039 3488 538239 E-mail: info@tuscanmototours.com
www.tuscanmototours.com
SAM Polo-shirts
Black long or shor t sleeve shirts embroidere d with the Club name - alway s available to buy at Club Nig hts. Sizes XXL to Small. Long Sleeves £18. 50 Short Sleeves £15.00
Books and Videos
The Assessment of Advanced Motorcy cling £4.50 Know your Traffic Signs £3.00 How to be an Adv anced Motorcyclis t £7.99 Motorcycle Roadc raft (Blue Book) £11.99 Mike Waites Vide o £14.99 Top Rider Video £14.99 Contact Kate Dav ies Tel
01962 840954
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S A M S O L E N T A DVA N C E D M OTO R C Y C L I S T S
The IAM Aims
MANSELL TAKES F1 Racing legend Nigel Mansell is to be the new President of the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists). Mansell passed his Advanced Driving Test last August, 19 years after scoring his first Formula One victory at Brands Hatch. As IAM President, Mansell brings a lifetime of driving experience to the IAM. “I believe driving expertise isn’t just for the race track,” said Mr Mansell. “My grandfather always told me that it is no good lying on a hospital bed saying ‘But I had the right of way’.That is why drivers can gain so much from preparing for their IAM test. “I am honoured to take the Presidency of such a well regarded organisation and I hope that in this, its 50th Anniversary Year, we can inform and educate more drivers and riders than ever before,” he said. Welcoming the appointment, IAM Chairman John Maxwell said: “I am delighted that Nigel has accepted the invitation to be our new President. He is a well respected public figure, with immense driving experience. As well as his legendary track record, Nigel has consistently campaigned for safety on the road and I know that drivers of all ages will regard him as a leading proponent of safety, both on and off the track.”
To improve the standard of driving (and riding) on the UK roads.
CAPTION COMPETITION:
THE WHEEL AT THE IAM
sam
March 2006
SOLENT ADVANCED M OTO R C Y C L I S T S
The Advancement of Road Safety. The Administration of an Advanced Test.
March 06
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With 31 Grand Prix wins, Nigel Mansell already has his place in the Formula One Hall of Fame. He has joined racing drivers John Surtees, the late Graham Hill, Sir Stirling Moss and motorcyclist Geoff Duke who have all passed their IAM test. The first IAM President was Lord Sempill and the most recent was HRH The Duke of Gloucester, who held the position for 32 years.
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A lady biker has a heart attack and is taken to the hospital. While
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Most 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 those of the authors, and 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.
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Driving on the SubContinent
to BMW or not to BMW...
Thrills & Spills
By Dave Tilbury
or a good many years now I have been in the very fortunate position of owning two bikes - one for trail riding and one for greater distance on the road. But, like so often happens, you forget just how privileged you are and want something different. I sold the DR350 (something I regret as it was a competent, quiet and comfortable trail bike) and I gave the ZZR600 to my son, who was without a bike at the time.
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The ZZR had not lived up to my expectations, particularly in the comfort and handling departments. In particular, I found that journeys of an hour or more caused considerable pain to the wrists and, after a little longer, my back. So, I gave thought to what I wanted a bike to do, which was tour, with some off tarmac capability (the ZZR was not ace at this, but has seen many a lane) and provide everyday transport.
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on the operating table, she had a near death experience. Seeing God, she asked, “Is my time up?” God other 43 years, 2 said, “No, you have an live.” months, and 8 days to n decided to stay in ma Upon recovery, the wo facelift, liposuction, the hospital and have a she had so much and tummy tuck. Since roads to ride, she more time to live, new ll look even nicer. figured she might as we n, she was released After her last operatio riding her from the hospital. While s run into by a motorcycle home, she wa . Arriving in front of delivery truck and killed thought you said I had God, she demanded, “I w come you didn’t pull another 40+ years? Ho t freakin’ truck?” me out of the path of tha ognize you.” God replied, “I didn’t rec
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