The cover photo was taken by Mike Roberts on the visit to the English Electric Motor Co, Who also did the cover picture editing and graphical work.
From Paul Spalding and shows the Honister Pass, Buttermere, Cumbria taken on his holiday with Julian Harvey and their wives. The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 2
your Committee No Calls After 21:00 Please Officers Chairman Vice Chairman Secretary Treasurer
Richard Ockelton Martin Drury Les Steggles Bryan Duncan
07872-925532 07595-277831 01359 245898 07879 654122
Committee Members Chief Observer Caring SAM Charity Co-ordinator Events Events Events Events / Young Rider Publicity Co-ordinator Publicity Chief Ride Leader Webmaster Magazine Editor
Derek Barker Brian Ellis Brian Ellis Trevor Read Steve Cook Rob Baker Zoe Lee-Amies Glyn Hill Dean Harris Dean Harris Mike Roberts Felix Oliver
01473 327555 07740 564097 07740 564097 07525 724002 07711-650183 01473 270162 07540-617768 07986 319163 07956 339112 07956 339112 01473 718915 07712 649860
Committee Support Members Membership Secretary Linda Barker Associate Co-ordinator Susan Smith Admin Support Sara Hale Buddy Co-ordinator Vicky Smith National Observers Mike Roberts 01473 718915 Karl Hale 01359 241552 AndrĂŠ Castle 07730 526674 Paul Newman 01473 620450 Paul Spalding 07879 844618 Kevin Brendish 07854 494041 Paul Ballard 07850 715063
01473 327555 01206 251946 01359 241552 01255 830352
David Rudland Richard Toll Ross Mckinlay Ruth Acworth Tony Chyc Geoff Scott
01473 401362 01473 401363 07986 838028 07783 007100 01206 231782 07983 939998
Observers Steve Gocher Glyn Hill Graham Carey John Rudland Phil Sayer
01473 430643 07986 319163 07917 474338 07740 874300 07990 565451
Julian Harvey Gary Smith Dean Harris Richard Ockelton Matthew Barker
01449 770355 07824 805263 07956 339112 07872 925532 07931 700725
I.A.M. Examiner Ian Maxwell
07974 941545
Neale McConnell
01986 798452
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 3
Contents Honister Pass Committee Secretary’s Soapbox Communication’s role Latest Associates IAM Test Passes SAM EGMM SAM Theory Evening Associate Only Ride Our Friends Electric Looking to be an Observer? SAM’s Breakfast Run Ride Co-Ordinator and leaders First Saturday Jaunt Trial Experience Editorial Advertise Here Members Information SAM Dates for you Diary Tractors Our Venue
by Paul Spalding by Les Steggles
by Les Steggles by Derek Barker by Vini Evens by Mike Roberts By Derek Baker by Sara Hale by Phil Acton by Editor by Committee by Mike Roberts by Mike Roberts
2 3 5 7 8 8 9 10 11 15 17 20 21 22 24 28 29 30 31 35 36
next Issue Closing date for copy – Friday after club night. Send via e-mail or on a USB memory stick (which will be returned) or even hand-written, not a problem. The Editor reserves the right to edit, amend or omit as he feels fit.
WEBSITE ADDRESS http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com SAM is a registered Charity ~ No. 1067800 All Official Correspondence to:
The Secretary, Les Steggles, 1 Apple Grove Wetherden, Suffolk IP14 3RB The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 4
Secretary’s Soapbox August & no doubt loose straw & cereal vehicles everywhere. (written just after Group Night in July so might be early harvest) Suffolk is the sunniest county in the UK (not the warmest but the sunniest). In-laws (should that be outlaws?) have just moved out of Toilet Town (London) back to Yorkshire & I am sure the sky up there is flatter. I know everyone goes on about Yorkshire but when you come home to Suffolk the sky does get wider & taller.. thats the trouble with converts always being more zealous. I lived for 62 years in or on the fringes of Toilet Town, so Suffolk (where my Dad’s ancestors come from) is my spiritual home. Steve Gocher - collection tin on the door at Group Nights or you can donate via BACS to my current account. (Obviously I will email my thanks from some tropical Island) Account Name L O & Mrs SM Steggles Lloyds Sort Code 30-84-58 Account Number 54090168 I will email you when I get it & email again when we have a total. We will make a presentation to him at the 2019 AGM. For the vast majority who cannot make group nights here is what happened at the July one. Extraordinary General Meeting at the July Group Night - Nominations & election of Chair & Vice Chair. We had one candidate for each post. Richard Ockelton for Chairman & Martin Drury for Vice Chairman & they were duly elected. The guest speaker was SAM Associate Steve Hart on Model Aircraft & Drones. I certainly found this fascinating & he certainly knows his stuff. Chief’s Challenge - rules of adjudication - Once you have done the Challenge you will need to find a committee member who has successfully have their entry checked by Derek the Chief Observer. Only they can then adjudicate on your photos. (Sadly I wont be doing it this year, so I cannot check you entry) GDPR IAM RoadSmart Contracts - Hopefully the email & contract made sense. Group Night Venues - I mentioned this at the June Group Night but forgot to put it in the July Magazine for the majority of members. Bryan Duncan, our The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 5
treasurer, has spent hours over the last 9 months trying to find us another Group Night Venue due to increased cost at Fynn Valley & we were inches away from going elsewhere when he managed to secure a 2 year deal at FVGC. Many thanks to Bryan & we may possibly be in the new Club House in late Summer. If we are, make sure you walk around and note the fire exits & fire assembly point. Communications Officer - Well! just when I said we don’t need anyone else on the committee other than a Chair & Vice Chair…thanks to GDPR we really do need someone who knows how to send out bulk emails to the membership using a dedicated SAM email address. IT duffers like me need not apply as apparently if you get it wrong you can have your email system blocked. If what I have just said seems a doddle & you can make most monthly committee meetings then please let Mike Roberts know as he can give you the technical specs. (These are quite smart looking varifocals with tortoiseshell frames). Also, I shouldn’t be the Group Night Host anymore so it’s safe to come back to Fynn Valley. Sadly, still no guest speaker for November Group Night Here’s a couple of my soapbox questions for you. Why don’t Street Cruiser riders nod back when passing on the road? I now fully expect a no response blank stare from them (Are they completely brain dead?) but I will continue being polite. It is like when I used to wear a tall pointed hat (no, I wasn’t a smurf) & walked past some yob & said “Good Morning/Afternoon/Evening” just to see their reactions & the look on their faces (Priceless!). I have a prime example Hog rider living at the bottom of the road. I bet he would nod if he was broken down & I was riding past. If you ride a Street Cruiser & if this stings you - then send in an article of rebuttal. Cos we always need articles (& my near neighbour is a right article.. Heh Heh). I absolutely hate what I consider frivolous speed signs. By that I mean the ‘temporary’ ones left out for months after the roadworks have finished. There were some on the A12 by Capel St Mary about a year ago & there are still some on the A11 by The Wilbrahams. The latter ones have had their frame legs bolted around the crash barriers. Me & the wife know there is nothing going on The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 6
there but always slow to 50 then 40 on this stretch of dual carriageway along with about 2 others. The locals & regulars nearly ram us & the HGVs overtake… Someone obviously thinks it is a good wheeze to slow traffic down but if the motoring public think it is not current, temporary & genuine then they look cynically at all such temporary signs. Luckily we are not being recorded as the air turns a darker shade of blue. Any answers on a postcard please & remember the watershed. In a similar vein - Suffolk 40s - yes those drivers that push in the 30 zone & cause tailbacks when the speed limit & conditions get better… When you send in your holiday stories for the magazine its these sort of people I want to read about & the twat on the mobile who nearly wiped you out in a head on. To be blunt (as a sledgehammer!) I know you had a great ride & went to great places…but I want to laugh at the midge attacks & rain getting into your rainproof clothing & giving you chapped legs. Fortunately, for both you & me this should be my last Soapbox as the new Chairperson will be filling this slot next month. Best Wishes
Les the Secretary
COMMUNICATIONS ROLE Can you help? SAM has a new Committee role that needs someone who is IT literate. With the recent legislation of GDPR and the need to communicate with members via email, SAM is looking for a member to be responsible for the sending of bulk emails to existing members. These emails are usually reminders of upcoming events, or requests for assistance at shows etc. The person would need to be familiar with MailMerge, and have use of Outlook, Word, Excel, etc. Alternative software with similar facilities could be used. If you are interested please speak to Mike Roberts or one of our other Committee members and we will discuss the role with you.
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 7
New Associate Members A warm welcome is extended to our most recent Associate members:
Donna Williams
Steve Marr Simon Foulger
If anyone else has joined us and not had a mention yet, let the Editor know and he will put your name in the next Issue
IAM Test Passes Congratulations to the members who have passed their Advanced test this month. Mark Rudland his Observers were David Rudland and Kevin Brendish Martin Whight with a first his Observer was John Rudland When you pass your advanced test please let Derek Baker or Susan Smith know.
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 8
SAM Extraordinary General Meeting Minutes 17th July 2018 This EGM was called by myself at both the June Group Night & shortly after via an email to the full membership following the resignation of Steve Gocher, the Chairman, on the 30th June 2018. SAM had previously had a resignation of the Vice Chairman, Giles Arbon, back in April 2018. Hence the need for an EGM which was held in conjunction with the July Group Night. There were 51 members and 3 guests in attendance. I welcomed all members and guests & called for nominations Richard Ockelton stood unopposed for the position of Chairman, Proposed by Trevor Read. Seconded by Bryan Duncan. Martin Drury stood unopposed for the position of Vice Chairman, Proposed by Brian Ellis. Seconded by Steve Gocher. Both were duly elected until the February 2019 AGM
Les Steggles Secretary
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 9
SAM Theory Evenings As most of you know, on the Thursday evening, directly after Group Nights, SAM holds its monthly Theory Evening. Based on an ever revolving subject list of important rider skills these nights are an informal evening of facts and lively banter all aimed at improving your ride based on the information in the Advanced Rider Course Logbook. Each session covers one of the four main topic areas; Overtaking Planning & PositioningCornering Gears & Acceleration Mainly aimed at Associates going through the course, these evenings are also a good way for full members to brush up on their theory and add their experiences and questions to the session. The great benefit of attending these sessions in the classroom means it saves time on the road, covering theory and has the added advantage of an opportunity to discuss any issues you may have generally on your Advanced Rider Course.
Derek Barker The SAM Observer August 2018
SAM Chief Observer
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 10
Associates Only Social Ride A few years back now, a SAM stalwart – Keith Gilbert - introduced and arranged rides for those Associates who were reluctant to attend the usual Social Rides. The reasons for their apprehension ranged from simply not knowing the format through to a feeling close to intimidation of riding with those of vastly more experience. Having been a Ride Co-ordinator for a while and led many an Associate Group, it became apparent that the basic principles of Group Riding were not being picked up by the majority of Associates. Or should that be flipped around to say that these basic principles were not adequately being put to the Associates. The usual Ride Briefing delivered at departure time appeared to be the only information that many had to go on and they were hoping to just pick it up as they went along. Right, put the skin and bones of these two previous paragraphs together and what do you get? Well, once I’d put these points to our Chef Ride Leader Dean Harris, the helpful reply came back - - - - ‘Put something together then and we’ll run with it. You can be Presenter and Ride Co-ordinator for the day.’ An Associates Only Social Ride was being reborn.
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 11
‘Silence is Golden’ should be my theme tune, I thought to myself. Never mind, having walked straight into the hole I’d just dug, it was obvious I had to get cracking. How many were likely to be interested and how many out of those would actually turn up. Extending on from this was the number of Ride Leaders needed to keep the exuberance of the Newbies in check. Ha ha, something I could throw straight back at Dean. He willingly agreed to take on this part of the organising, though were those teeth gritted and were they really tears rolling down his cheeks? What should I say, and about what? Listening to my monotone droning on for ages wouldn’t impart much information for very long. So I’d try and keep their listening time down to less than ten minutes. This was not going to be a training course for Group Riding but nevertheless I found there were more and more nuggets of information that I thought were important enough to put across. A brainwave! Instead of the usual Social Ride format how about a return trip? A sermon before departure, a few words while they were tucking in to their Full English then keeping them on the leash for a final chat with Q&As (and a dreaded feedback form to complete) when we got back to the departure point. I drew up a list of three different route options and submitted them for approval. ‘Whichever one you want’ came back the decisive reply. So I picked the one that started closest to home for me. Well why wouldn’t I? Many gallons of midnight oil later and I had come up with a suitable script. Too much for me to remember even if I used bullet points. No I had to subject everyone to my drawl read straight from the page. No eye contact then to engage with my audience – or catch them nodding off. A date had been selected and I was ensured that the Observers were happily twisting arms for attendees. Whoosh forward and the day was here. Naturally first to arrive, I set up my classroom on the grubby picnic table in the lorry park at Beacon Hill. Set, as it was, between two empty rubbish bins, I cleared the smelly fast food containers and bags. Steadily the Ride Leaders and Associates trickled in. I so dearly wanted to deliver some quip that would terrify the lives out of them for the Ride ahead – the Ride Leaders that is. A good time to thank Glyn Hill, Dean Harris, and Brian Ellis for their contribution. Please be very aware that any of SAMs Social Runs need the support of our dedicated Ride Leader Team. If you want to give something back to SAM or The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 12
want promotion from the Observer Corps then all you have to do is contact Sara Hale or Dean Harris (contact details in the magazine or on the website) and they’ll never let go of you again. Pick the thread up again! Grouped around the picnic table, ah yes, got it. After introducing the attendant – brilliant – Ride Leaders an explanation of the signingin procedure was given. This was followed up by the system of ‘Marking of Junctions’ theory. You know the one – where no-one takes a wrong turn or gets totally lost. Then we moved on to the Ride Briefing, the need for its delivery to satisfy insurance terms and the silent, respectful attention that everyone must give to it – each and every time. The Ride Co-ordinator will never hear a moan or a groan. All done! Now a nice, easy first leg along the A1120 with only a few junctions to the Red Poll Tearooms at Darsham. A section of the upstairs eatery had been sectioned off for us. So, without disturbing other customers a short talk was given by Brian Ellis on the work of Caring SAM, its raison d’etre, and its accessibility. To allow the Associates a chance to choke on their food I gave an expansion of the phrase ‘Ride your own Ride’. Including snips like ‘Ride within your own limits’ and ‘sacrifice position for safety’ (which can be applicable even when stationary). Eager now for some real riding with their new knowledge, the intrepid group set off for a more adventurous route back to Beacon Hill. By now bubbling with excitement the Associates were pounced upon with feedback forms and weren’t allowed to escape until they had been completed. Questions were duly answered, thanks to the continued presence of Glyn and Dean (Observers as well you know), then some general chit chat as we all wound down ready for the ride home, totally fulfilled, tired and contented. Well except for a few items that were requested to be expanded upon on the next, Winter version (???) Thanks to all who attended. Your input really has been appreciated as none of us had tried this event before. Sadly, you may not benefit from the winter one, as you will all no doubt have passed your advanced test by then! But your experience will filter down.
Vini The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 13
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 14
ARE FRIENDS ELECTRIC? After the English Electric Motor Company visited SAM for one of our Group Nights, our members were invited to their headquarters near Redgrave, Norfolk, to try out the range of electric motorcycles.
http://englishelectricmotorco.com/ The weather on the day was a continuation of the heat wave we have been having and so 10 members met at Beacon Hill Services in their best mesh jackets and summer riding gear for an un-official ride North. Trevor Read had organised the event and I had planned the route. We decided Trevor would lead, only for his BMW branded Garmin SatNag to freeze just as we were about to leave. So I took over leading duties. It was a nice ride via Pettaugh, Debenham, Eye, Stuston, Wortham and then a freshly chipped back road nearly to Redgrave. On arrival we were met by Alec and his dog. Teas, coffees, and cold drinks consumed, we were given a guided tour around the bikes and the simple controls. They are just like any other motorcycle, except there is no clutch lever or gear lever. We were told to always make sure that when stopped after a ride to ensure the kill switch was activated, as with no engine actually running, it is easy to turn the throttle and the bike will just launch itself! I won’t go through all the specifications; you can find them on the website. What you want to know is “What are they like to ride?” Well here goes ... Wow! They are a revelation. They are virtually silent (there’s a little motor noise, but most of the noise is the wind roar and tyres on the road surface) which can be deceptive. Open the throttle and there is just an almost endless wave of torque fuelled acceleration. ☺ The bikes, like many these days, have power modes. Eco, Sport, and Custom. Eco, as the name suggests, damps down the power available and also increases the amount of ‘engine braking’. This is a bit artificial as the The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 15
motor has none, unlike a conventional engine, but instead the motor turns into a generator and creates electric charge that is fed back into the battery. This is maximised in Eco mode. In Sport mode it is the complete opposite. You get full power and virtually no re-generation. Those of you who can remember riding 2strokes will know what this is like. A big surprise when you shut the throttle and the corner still continues to approach at a high rate of knots! The Custom mode allows you to create your own via a phone app. This would be my preference with full power and maximum ‘engine braking’. The acceleration has to be experienced to really appreciate how different these bikes are. There is 100% of the torque available from the START of the rev range. The rush forward is instant. To put this in perspective: compare this with the Kawasaki H2 SX I test rode in June’s magazine which had 197 bhp, the Zero SR electric bike has 69, BUT the H2 had 101 lb ft @ 9,500rpm, whereas the Zero has 108 from the moment you move the throttle (and feels like a bicycle in weight). The fact it has no traction control, is complete madness! Of course range and charging times will always be the other topic of conversation. The Zero SR which has a full sized battery can do between 150220 miles approx per charge. Charge time is less than 8 hours from a normal
power supply but there are fast charge options that will nearly fully charge in 44 minutes. For me that range would allow me to do an awful lot of my riding (observing and cafe hunting). Opinions will always be divided. Do yourself a favour and get a test ride. You won’t regret it. The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 16
Thanks again to the English Electric Motor Co for the opportunity to experience these new forms of motorcycle. PS. There are more pictures on SAM’s Facebook Gallery
https://www.facebook.com/pg/suffolkadvancedmotorcyclists/photos
Mike Roberts
We are looking for new Observers to join the team. Observers are a valuable asset to the club and give of their time freely in the interests of improving Motorcycle Road Safety. To ensure we continue with the fantastic work of the current team I am organising an assessment day, for those members who are interested in trying out for this demanding role, on Saturday 8th September 2018. Before you send that email or grab the phone and call, let me give you some of the facts. The assessment day will be long and tiring, you will be assessed by a number of our current observers throughout that time and after the festivities have ceased you will be told if you are ready or not to commence SAM observer training. The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 17
Being an Observer for SAM requires the following qualities, you need to be; Committed to improving the standard of riding for both yourself and others. Have very good communication skills and be contactable. Have a good knowledge of Roadcraft and be able to put over the concepts of it to people from all backgrounds and abilities. Be riding at least the standard of the IAM test and have enough concentration left to observe another rider. Be a fully paid up member of SAM and the IAM. Have loads of patience. Be able to give freely of your time to observe, attend regular refresher training sessions with other Observers, support organised events and share your skills onto others. So the training process; Following successful selection on Saturday 8th September 2018 assessment day, you will need to commit to attending at least three evening classroom training sessions of around 2 hours each, these will be done towards the end of the year / New Year. There will then be a number of practical assessments concentrating on your riding, communications and teaching each of which will be driven by you. You would be expected to have completed all of this by the end of Spring 2019 so that we can use your new found skills. I make no apologies, the process is tough, however there is a minimum national standard required and this has to be verified by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) where upon success you will have earned an external qualification endorsed by them. The programme is designed not only to get the right people with the right skills but also the right attitude. If I have not put you off by now and you are now even keener then give me a call on 01473327555 or book your place email Sara at karlsarahale@btinternet.com Closing date for applications will be Saturday 25th August 2018. Regards Derek Barker Chief Observer Suffolk Advanced Motorcyclists 01473 327555 07885 108445 The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 18
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 19
BREAKFAST RUN 2018 2nd September 2018 Sands Restaurant The Quay Wells next the Sea NR23 1AH Tel: 01328 710534 http://www.sandsrestaurant.co.uk/ Meet at Stowmarket Tescos, IP14 5BE in good time for 08:45 Briefing and subsequent departure. All riders must attend the Briefing. Ride Co-ordinator is Richard Ockleton. Join the A14 westbound, exiting at J47 Elmswell and taking the A1088 round Ixworth to Thetford. Over three roundabouts to become the A134. Turn right at Browns roundabout Mundford to take the A1065 to Swaffham. Fork right at the Market Cross then a staggered straight over at the traffic lights on keep on to Fakenham. Straight over at the roundabout onto the A148 for a few hundred metres then turn left onto Barsham Road, B1105 then very shortly left again – but still B1105 – onto Wells Road. On the approach to Wells the main road turns 90deg left but at the apex turn right into Mill Road, then immediately left onto Park Road. A little way down turn right onto Theatre Road and left into Stearmans Yard car park, where motorcycles are free. Walk down through the car park and turn right along the Quay. Opposite the Quay car park exit is The Sands, but as a Triathlon is being held on the day this car park is out of use. The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 20
Ride Co-ordinators and Ride Leaders Ride Leaders and Ride Coordinators are the full SAM members that facilitate SAM social rides. In order to maintain and hopefully increase the club social rides, the club needs sufficient numbers to allow our much-loved breakfast, Summer Chip and Winter Saturday Jaunts to continue. If you are interested in helping the club, and helping yourself by becoming a Ride Co-ordinator and ride Leader, please contact Sara Hale to find out more information about one or both of these roles
Ride Co-ordinator and Ride Leader
David Wood Dean Harris Richard Ockelton
Brian Ellis Vini Evans Nick Braley
Glyn Hill Robert Baker
Ride Leaders
Ken Beckinsale
Tim Wash
Martin Drury
Please check the SAM Calendar and SAM Forum on-line for last minute changes/cancellations. On the Forum you will also find the routes as text, route cards, and on Google Maps / Streetview, along with a photo of the destination, so you can familiarise yourself with the route before the day.
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 21
Saturday Jaunt 15th September 2018 Green Pastures Plant Centre & Farm Shop Mill Road, Bergh Apton, Norwich NR15 1BQ, Tel: 01508 480734 http://www.greenpasturesnursery.co.uk Meet at Beacon Hill (IP6 8LP) in good time for 13:00 Briefing and prompt subsequent departure. All riders must attend Briefing. Ride Co-ordinator: TBA Roundabout, 1st exit A140 Turn Right B1078 - Sign Posted, Coddenham Turn Right Unclass - Before hump back bridge Turn Left Unclass – Sign Posted, Hemmingstone after 1 mile Turn Right B1078 - Otley College, Turn Right B1079 - Clopton Turn Left B1078 – Sign Posted, Wickham Market Turn Left Unclass - Before Wickham Market, tight turn back on yourself, downhill; over humpback bridge Turn Right Unclass - Easton Road Turn Left B1116 - Hacheston, Fressingfield, Weybread, under A143
Parham,
Framlingham,
Dennington,
Turn Right Spirkett's Lane - Sign Posted (A143) Gt Yarmouth; past industrial estate Turn Left A143 Over Roundabout; Wortwell Turn Left Unclass - Alburgh, Hempnall, Turn Right B1527 - Woodton Turn Left B1332 - Brooke, village centre cross roads Turn Right The Street - Follow signs to Alpington Turn Right Mill Lane - On right Green Pastures Plant Centre Beware loose gravel car-park! The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 22
Social Rides Please note that it is you, the rider, who is deemed to be in control of the vehicle at all times during an Observed Run and during all other Group activities and that the Committee of Suffolk Advanced Motorcyclists cannot and do not accept any liability whatsoever for any injury to person or damage to vehicle occurring in the course of any rally or other event organised by the Group. Any member attending such an event does so entirely at his or her own risk and must maintain their own insurance to cover any said injury to person or damage to vehicle and must be riding a road legal vehicle, having valid road tax, insurance and MOT certificate (if applicable). Participants on S.A.M social rides are advised of the Events Committee’s guidelines as follows: You will be expected to provide a suitable means of carrying a map of the route If possible, have breakdown cover for your machine. Be responsible for your own safety Rides will commence promptly at the published departure time. Have a FULL tank of fuel No more than 5 in a group. Please watch our light hearted video with a serious message explaining all of the above. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRMd-dQHzWg The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 23
Trial Bike Experience I booked a day learning to ride a trials bike with my son, Jake and brother in law Lee. Lee and I went on a motocross experience several years ago and this sounded like fun but at a slower speed! The course was in Staffordshire so we decided to camp before and after at a local farm. I rode up on my old Africa Twin (the one I took to South & Central America) and met the others there. After a bbq and a few beers the night before, Lee was a little worse for wear and couldn’t face his breakfast but just managed to sign up!
The day started at 0930 with a cuppa and getting geared up. Everything was provided, helmet, shirt, trousers, boots and gloves. Trials riding is quite physical so we didn’t need any extra layers. There were 14 of us in total and quite a mixed bag. The three of us all ride on the road but some of the others ride Enduro and some only mountain bikes. The group was split in two with 7 of us who could ride a motorbike in one group. We were each given a bike and then a warm up and stretch. Trials riding, as we would find out, is all about moving your weight about so being flexible is a bonus.
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 24
Our first lesson was cornering and because our speed is very slow, we need to lean the bike and hang off the other side while steering. Road bike riders tend to naturally lean our body in and the bike out but we needed to do the opposite. After some practice and riding with one finger on brake and clutch, it was ‘follow my leader’ around the farm on an ‘easy’ course. The bikes idle is set up so its very hard to stall, making it quite easy to ride but slow control over uneven terrain was hard. We were all getting on well so we were taken on more difficult terrain, learning riding up and down steep inclines and over drop offs. After a much needed break we were on the ‘big hill’ learning slow riding downhill, riding along a camber and how to turn up and down hill! Leaning the wrong way and you were off – very slowly so no problem! Leaning the bike into the slope with body upright, opposite to what I imagined, as usual! Slow riding was enhanced by riding on a slipping clutch, a bit like riding on the back brake, to ride slower than idle. We had plenty of practice and then ‘follow my leader’ along many more obstacles back to base for a lovely hot pasta lunch. We had already ridden over some quite difficult ditches, rocky sections, heather, up onto a table top, turning and back down again – all more than I thought I could do. After lunch it was more practice but this time adjusting your weight through your feet to control the bike along a rut or ridge. A really good technique to master but difficult. Basically, a loose grip on the bars and adjusting your weight to steer the bike through the pegs. We then had one final ride to end the day. We had the option of easy or hard, so we had to take the hard, which took in a couple of real trials sections. The terrain and scenery is beautiful, which made the riding even more rewarding. Our last ride The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 25
took us along a rocky river bed, over mud, roots, large boulders, up a stone wall and beside a lake. No one had fallen in apparently, even though the path was quite close! It was a great way to end the day. We all really enjoyed it and found it very challenging but not too much. Amazingly, none of us actually crashed, if we went wrong we managed to put a foot down and keep upright. The good thing about trials is if you mess a section up its easy to paddle through the hard bit and carry on. I got the approach to one climb wrong, nearly hit a tree but was easily able to paddle my way back on line and carry on. On the other hand, complete commitment is often needed, especially on a steep climb, and correct body position to prevent a flip! After a tiring day we had a pint at the local pub and back to camp for another bbq and earlyish night. Plenty of tales to tell and highly recommended for anyone else thinking of trying something different. The only problem was the horrendous traffic getting there – glad I was on my bike! The cost for a full day (0930 – 1600) is £150 + an optional £25 insurance damage waiver. www.trials-school.co.uk
Phil Acton The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 26
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 27
Editorial Well another month has whizzed past and my poor machine hasn’t moved an inch… Club Committee meeting tomorrow so It might be lucky and go for a run. Glad it see at least one member reads the magazine. See his comments. Your "random" photo submitted by me. From June 2016, Paul Siddaway Triumph 800 under Millau suspension bridge southern France. David Wood. I see on social media that some of you have been out and about, don’t forget to send in your fascinating story’s for our dear readers. After all without the articles one might as well read the phone book, or watch Love Island….. Autumn is beginning to look good with a few fun rides and Copdocks bike show, don’t be shy, the publicity team require help with marshals Safe Riding
Felix...
Editor
Bowman’s Barn, Back Street, Gislingham, Suffolk. IP23 8JH. Tel: 07712649860 editor@suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com Thank you To all the members who have contributed to this month’s magazine. ☺ But….. what about the rest of you….
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 28
Closing date for copy Friday after club night If you’d like to help save the Group on the printing and postage costs of your monthly ‘hard copy’ of the ‘SAM Observer’ by opting to receive an email notification instead, then please give me your email details on Group Night or send me an email. I hope that you have been enjoying the reports that members who go on ride outs have written, and as you can see, it doesn’t have to be a wordy passage, so feel free to scribble a few words down, a few pictures and next month you will have another great magazine to read Don’t forget to take your cameras and a notebook to record your trip then you can write a nice article about it for your favourite magazine. I have a word template if anyone would like it, email me and I’ll send you a copy which has all the formatting re-set on it. Please remember that we use Times New Roman as the main font for the magazine at a size 16 so that when the printer converts the A4 pages down to A5 the font looks like a 12. I like pictures to be separate to your articles because I can make them bigger or small to fill the page
Advertise in our magazine Annual Advertising Rates: Advertise on the SAM website for an additional £25. Contact Felix for more details 07712649860 Sam.editor@btinternet.com £50 for ½ page
£75 for full page
Norfolk Advanced Motorcyclists 3rd Monday of the month, 19:30, at Dunston Hall, A140, Norwich, NR14 8PQ Chairman, Secretary,
The SAM Observer August 2018
Rob Chandler, Alex Mason,
01493 730409 01603 716735
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 29
MEMBER INFORMATION A lot of useful information about SAM and its activities is available on our website. Below are some key links members will find useful. CONTACTS Contact details of SAM’s Committee & Observers, complete with photographs so you can recognise everyone. http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/com http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/obs CALENDAR Our online calendar with relevant links which can also be linked to your smartphone. Contact: Mike Roberts http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/cal OBSERVER ASSOCIATE CHARTER What is expected of the Observer and Associate while preparing for the IAM motorcycle test. Contact: Derek Baker http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/chart CARING SAM Our customer service & complaints procedures. Contact: Brian Ellis http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/care DISCOUNT SCHEME Proof of identity will be required to be shown. (e.g. Current IAM/SAM membership cards). Save your membership fee, and more, by using these retailers who give a discount to SAM members. Contact: Dean Harris http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/disc ADVERTS Got something to sell? Want to see what other members are selling? See our online adverts section. Contact: Mike Roberts http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/ads SHOPS T-shirts, sweatshirts, fleeces, hats, and more are available from SAM’s two online shops. Contact: Mike Roberts http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/shop FORUM All the latest news and discussion on all things SAM and motorcycle related. Have a read, and then register to join in. Contact: Mike Roberts http://www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/forum The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 30
SAM Events for your Diary August 2018 Friday 17th ~ Saturday 18th Safe Rider Safe Rider is a joint initiative between Suffolk and Norfolk Constabularies which aims to reduce motorcycle casualties. If you can help the Publicity Team on the Saturday of this event, please contact Glyn Hill on 07986-319163 Sunday 19th Motorcycle Dexterity & Control, Sidegate Primary School, 292 Sidegate Lane, Ipswich IP4 4JD, Numbers are limited to these events to 12 per session so please book early by E-mail to karlsarahale@btinternet.com to guarantee a space. Tuesday 21st SAM Group Night. Announcements at 19:30 Bar and restaurant serving all types of food/drinks including teas and coffees. Thursday 23rd Theory Evening. Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF. Come along and learn more about Roadcraft. 19:30. This month’s topic: Cornering Sunday 26th Copdock Fun Run, 09:30 ~ 13:30 Volunteers are required to be static marshals on the route. If you can help please contact Committee Member Rob Baker. Thursday 30th Last Chip Ride 2018, Beach Fryer CB5 9PB. Meet at Beacon Hill services IP6 8LP in good time for 18:00 Briefing and subsequent departure.. All riders must attend Briefing.
September 2018 Sunday, 2nd Breakfast Run Sands Restaurant NR23 1AH Meet at Stowmarket Tesco’s IP14 5BE in good time for 08:45 Briefing and subsequent departure. All riders must attend Briefing. Wednesday 5th SAM Committee meeting 19:30. Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF Saturday 8th Observer Assessment Day A day for those wishing to train to become an Observer where their suitability will be assessed. Contact: Derek Barker Saturday 15th First Saturday Jaunt Green Pastures Plant Centre & Farm Shop NR15 1BQ Meet at Beacon Hill IP6 8LP in good time for 13:00. All riders must attend Briefing The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 31
Tuesday 18th SAM Group Night. Announcements at 19:30 followed by, Guest Speaker. Bar and restaurant serving all types of food/drinks including teas and coffees. Thursday 20th Theory Evening. Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF. Come along and learn more about Roadcraft. 19:30. This month’s topic: Gears & Acceleration Friday 21st ~ Saturday 22nd Safe Rider Safe Rider is a joint initiative between Suffolk and Norfolk Constabularies which aims to reduce motorcycle casualties. If you can help the Publicity Team on the Saturday of this event, please contact Glyn Hill on 07986-319163 Saturday 22nd Motorcycle Dexterity & Control, Sidegate Primary School, 292 Sidegate Lane, Ipswich IP4 4JD, Numbers are limited to these events to 12 per session so please book early by E-mail to karlsarahale@btinternet.com to guarantee a space.
October 2018 Sunday 7th Copdock motorcycle Show Trinity Park. If you can help with motorcycle parking or on our promotion stand, please speak to a Committee member.
Note from Editor Please check the SAM Calendar & Forum for further details and for any changes after going to press. Especially in winter months when the weather can be unpredictable
Disclaimer The articles published herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Institute of Advanced Motorists or the Suffolk Advanced Motorcyclist Group. They are the opinions of individual contributors and are published with a view that free expression promotes discussion and interests.
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 32
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 33
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 34
"Trevor Read parked his bike in just the right place for an ideal photo opportunity! " - Mike Roberts The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 35
The SAM Observer August 2018
www.suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com
Page 36