The SAM Observer February 2023

The Cover photo was taken by Mike Roberts at the Ribble Viaduct when taking part in the SAM Calendar Challenge 2021.

Please send in Pictures for our 2023 magazines covers Do not to crop them too tight. I need the full size files from their phone/camera. Only 2 files per member! My email can't cope with folders full, thanks.

Mike Roberts

Murray Dellow receiving his certificate on Januarys group night

Not The Chairman’s Chat

Well, the news was broken in the January edition of the SAM Observer and now everyone who reads the mag. knows I am on the committee. In trying to contribute to the Observer, I appreciate that of the current 278 members, I have only met about a quarter of them, so perhaps this is a good time to introduce myself, so, who am I ?

I have been obsessed with bikes for almost as long as I can remember. I can blame my brother for this: in the summer of 1967 he brought home a Francis Barnet 250, powered by a Villiers 2 stroke twin (whatever that is) it was noisy, smelly, relatively fast and instantly appealing to an impressionable boy. One illegal ride on the pillion was all it took, I was hooked, I simply had to get one, the sooner the better. Oh no! My 16th Birthday was still over 5 years off. I contented my desire to some degree by devouring any motorcycle journal or book I could lay hands on. I learned everything I could. I read accounts of some of the great racers of the time, Billy Ivy, Phil Read John Hartle, Mike Hailwood to name but a few. I dreamt of the bikes I would own, the places I would go and the things I would see. If I could just get to my 16th birthday

Into the seventies and Speedway returned to Foxhall stadium, sunny Thursday evenings found me stalking the car park just to gaze upon the objects of my desire, BSA and Triumph twins mostly, a Velocette Thruxton and a Genuine DBD 34 (BSA Goldstar) were often to be found too, their polished alloy, huge carburettors and gleaming paintwork were a delight to behold. Japanese bikes were becoming more apparent, Honda had recently released the CB750, Kawasaki their Mach III Suzuki the T500, but none could compare with the outright beauty of that Velocette!

The NSA occasionally organized events on the Martlesham airfield, these were very special, seeing all types of modified motorcycles, mostly created in the Garden shed. Bikes with super chargers, some in front of the engine, some behind. Bikes with reversed cylinder heads, Bikes with fuel injection. Bikes with wheelie bars, Bikes without, some even had 2 engines, loud bikes, some very loud bikes. Bikes running on alcohol, bikes running on petrol. Bikes----.

I occasionally cycled out to Blaxhall to watch the Motocross, anything just to be around bikes. On very special occasions I would be taken on the pillion of my brother’s bikes to watch the racing at Brands Hatch, I saw the “the Race of the South” and also the “Trans-Atlantic Trophy” (a team race between the Yanks and

the Brits run every year around Easter) It was utterly wonderful to be around Bikes, Oh how long it seemed till my 16th Birthday would arrive.

16 was looming on the Horizon when the greatest possible tragedy struck. The Tory Government, acting savagely and cruelly raised the age of riding a proper motorcycle (up-to 250cc) to 17. The Bastards, how could they possibly do this, how could they be so vindictive to just one poor boy?

17 did eventually arrive, I got that all important first Motorbike, the one that I had so desperately longed for, the first of many in fact. Looking back on what to me are my wonderful memories my love of motorbikes has endured. Indeed, since joining SAM my love of motorcycling has matured, so much so that I am now on the committee. So, who am I? I am Bob Rhodes, I am a motorcycling zealot, and I aim to promote SAM, I aim to entice lay members back to club meetings, to participate in the marvellous breakfast runs, the wonderful Saturday Jaunts and the warm summer evening chip runs.

So, finally, that’s me, and I would like to know you too, so whatever is keeping you away, what is missing from our club, please let me know, what are your requirements? What would you like to see? robertrhodes100@gmail.com All communications will be treated in strict confidence

New Associate Members

A warm welcome is extended to our most recent Associate members:

Christiaan Taylor William London Philip O’Hagan

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.

Ian Luff his Observer was Mike Roberts

When you pass your advanced test please let Paul Ballard or Geoff Scott know

SAM Theory Evenings

As most of you know, on the 4th Wednesday evening every month, 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 & Positioning Cornering 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.

Next theory night meeting will be February 22nd 2023. 19:30 ~ 22:00. Subject for the theory night is Cornering

Paul Ballard SAM Chief Observer

SAM Membership Renewal

To the few of you who have still to pay their subs, can I please remind you that subs were due on 1st January.

If you have already paid, or pay by Standing Order, please disregard this reminder.

SAM’s preferred method of payment is by Standing Order (known as STO) and it is a handy way of not having to remember!

Standing Orders are quick, easy and completely secure as YOU are in TOTAL control.

To set up a Standing Order, simply click on the following link to download and print a copy of the Standing Order Form

https://suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/renewal/

Complete the Standing Order form and send it to your bank, or if you have internet banking facilities, use the details on the form to set up a regular payment via your bank’s online services.

If payment by Standing Order is not possible, payment by bank transfer (known as BACS) is perfectly acceptable. Our details are; Suffolk Advanced Motorcyclists, Sort Code: 20-92-08, Account No: 10363650.

The cost of renewal for 2023 remains, yet again, unchanged at £22 for a Full/Associate member and £25 for joint rider/pillion membership.

If, for whatever reason, you cannot pay by either the STO or BACS options, please contact me directly and we will find another way.

Stay safe,

Bryan Duncan, SAM Treasurer duncan173@btinternet.com

01728 688864 - 07879 654122

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. Assessments will take place on Saturday 1st April 2023 (Not an April fool). 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 members of our current Observer team throughout the day. After the festivities have ceased you will be told if you have the ability to become an observer or not and that you are able to commence SAM observer training later in April.

Being an Observer for SAM requires a number of qualities; you need to be; committed to improving the standard of riding for both yourself and others; have very good communication skills and to commit time to train. You should have a good knowledge of Roadcraft and be able to put across the concepts to people from all backgrounds and abilities. Be riding to at least the IAM test standard 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 SAM organised events and share your skills with others.

The training process; Following successful selection on the Assessment day, you will need to commit to attending the three evening classroom training sessions of around 2 hours each, these will be done in the weeks shortly afterwards all being well. Then there will be a number of practical assessments which will focus on your riding, communications skills and teaching ability, each of which will be driven by you. You would be expected to have completed all of this hopefully by the end of Summer 2023 so that we can use your new found skills. Following all that, you will then be assessed by an IAM assessor who will, after successful completion promote you up to National Observer. This is a new feature this year, as the IAM are disbanding the Local Observer qualification from April 2023 in favour of National Observers which will be the benchmark for the future.

I make no apologies for the tough process, however, there is a minimum national standard required and this is 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 correct skills but also with the right attitude.

If you have not been put you off by now and you are still keen then please give Paul Ballard the Chief Observer a call on 07850 715063 or better an Email pgb284@gmail.com to book your place. Closing date for applications will be 25th March 2023.

Paul Ballard

Wanted – deputy for Communications & Website.

Do you have some IT skills you would like to put to use on behalf of the club?

You don’t need to be an expert at websites or coding, just have a reasonable level of IT knowledge – such as Word and/or Excel.

You also don’t need to join the committee or commit to hours of work every month.

What I need is someone who can managed some minor website updates, issue the occasional email to members, and respond to any related emails while I am not available due to holidays etc.

The SAM Website is based on WordPress, I use a basic online email system, along with the Event booking system – all of which are quite simple to use – I am happy to provide appropriate training to a willing volunteer, along with some detailed “crib” sheets for reference.

Most of the requirements will entail simply copying a previous version and making the necessary edits and then saving.

If you are interested in helping out with this please email me at communcations@suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com and we can arrange to meet and discuss in more detail.

Thanks

Les Smith

SAM Communications and Webmaster

Ride Leaders

Social Ride Coordinator

Trevor Read

Ride Leaders

Eric Aldridge Ken Beckinsale Kevin Bolt Chris Bond

Jeremy Duszynski Brian Ellis Vini Evans Dave Frankin

Mike Roberts Steve Hart Jon Marriott Alex Jones

Fred Sparrow Andrew Robotham Les Smith

David Wood Graham Woollard

Please check the SAM Calendar online for last minute changes/cancellations –this also includes a link to the registration page with more details..

Where are we going and how are we getting there?

Social Rides in March

BreakfastRunSunday5th

D’s Café Diner, Hatfield Peverel, CM32EG https://www.dscafediner.co.uk/

A Beacon Hill departure again and being warmer and lighter we can all be away by 09:00 if you are there in good time. We’ll trundle off to Sudbury by way of Bildeston and Little Waldingfield and then on to White Colne and Coggeshall and into Tiptree. From here it’s down to Maldon and South Woodham Ferrers then back up to Danbury and through the rather posh Little Baddow and then along Main Road in Hatfield Peverel almost going down the off-slip of the A12.

Jaunt,Saturday18th Goodies, Long Stratton, Wood Lane, IP214XU http://www.goodiesfoodhall.co.uk/

Yet another off from Beacon Hill. This time everyone getting away by 13:00. Starting the ride by turning off at the dip on the A140 to Coddenham we’ll carry on along the B1078 to Otley Bottoms and then left near the old Clopton Crown to Charsfield. Wending our way up through Hoo and Kettleborough to Framlingham we’ll then turn up to Badingham. It’s a short blast along the A1120 to Peasenhall and then up to Halesworth via Walpole. Some more twiddly roads follow as we go up through Rumburgh, Homersfield and Alburgh then across to the grand metropolis that is Bush Green. All that is left is a quick squiggle to Wood Lane and the farm shop.

Vini Evans

Advertise in our magazine

Annual Advertising Rates: Advertise on the SAM website for an additional £25. Contact Felix for more details 07712649860

editor@suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com £50 for ½ page £75 for full page Norfolk Advanced Motorcyclists

3rd Mondayofthemonth, 19:30, at The Cottage, Thunder Lane, Thorpe St Andrew. NR7 0JD

Chairman, JohnYoung, 07948538036 Secretary, PaulMilner, 07834600665

SAM Events for your Diary 2022

Please see website and magazine for updates

February 2023

Wednesday15th SAM Group Night. Announcements, AGM, 19:30~22:00 at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF Bar serving drinks, including teas and coffees.

Saturday18th Saturday Jaunt to Browns Cafe, Mundford. Depart from Beacon Hill Services. Please arrive in time for 12.30 departure latest

Wednesday22nd Theory Evening 19:00 ~ 22:00. Come along and learn more about Roadcraft. Topic: Cornering, Contact: Paul Ballard, Meet in The Board Room

March 2023

Wednesday1st SAM Committee meeting 19:00~22:00. Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5

1JF

Sunday5th Breakfast run to Mr D's Diner, Hatfield Peverel. Meet at Beacon Hill Services in time for 09.00 departure

Wednesday15th SAM Group Night. Announcements, followed by Guest speaker, TBA or see the Calendar for latest info. 19:30~22:00 at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF Bar serving drinks, including teas and coffees. Card Only

Saturday18th Saturday Jaunt to Goodies Food Hall, Long Stratton. Meet at Beacon Hill Services in time for 13.00 departure

Wednesday22nd Theory Evening 19:00 ~ 22:00. Come along and learn more about Roadcraft. Topic: Planning & Positioning, Contact: Paul Ballard, Meet in The Board Room

Sunday26th Dexterity & Control 09:00 ~ 14:00 Sidegate Primary School, Sidegate Ln, Ipswich IP4 2QT Motorcycle Dexterity & Control Days give you the opportunity to practice the art of riding a motorcycle slowly, and to learn the techniques that will help you do it

April 2023

Sunday2nd Breakfast run to Wings, North Weald Airfield, CM16 6HR Please arrive in time for departure at 09.00 latest Departs from behind B&M, IP83TT,

Wednesday5th SAM Committee meeting 19:00~22:00. Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF

Saturday15th Saturday Jaunt to Urban Jungle Cafe, Beccles. NR34 8TT Meet at Beacon Hill Services IP68LP, in time for 12.00 departure

Wednesday19th SAM Group Night. Announcements followed by Guest speaker, 19:30~22:00 at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF Bar serving drinks, including teas and coffees. CardOnly

Thursday20th Fish and Chip Run to Cod Father, Sudbury Please meet behind B&M Home Store, IP8 3TT, in time for 18:00 start.

Saturday22nd Dexterity & Control 09:00 ~ 14:00 Sidegate Primary School, Sidegate Ln, Ipswich IP4 2QT Motorcycle Dexterity & Control Days give you the opportunity to practice the art of riding a motorcycle slowly, and to learn the techniques that will help you do it

Wednesday26th Theory Evening 19:00 ~ 22:00. Come along and learn more about Roadcraft. Topic Gears & Acceleration. Available to Full Members. Meet in the Board Room. Contact: PaulBallard

Picture by Bryan Duncan

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.

https://suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/contact-us/

CALENDAR

Our online calendar with relevant links which can also be linked to your smartphone. Contact: Les Smith

https://suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/sam-calendar/

OBSERVER ASSOCIATE CHARTER

What is expected of the Observer and Associate while preparing for the IAM motorcycle test. Contact: Paul Ballard

https://suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/SAMMembers-Group-Social-Rides-Charter.pdf

CARING SAM

Our customer service & complaints procedures.

TBA

DISCOUNT SCHEME

Contact: Brian Ellis

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

https://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

TBA

SHOPS

T-shirts, sweatshirts, fleeces, hats, and more are available from SAM’s two online shops. Contact: Mike Roberts

https://suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com/sam-shops/

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

Editorial 2023

Great excitements this month, I managed to find my water leak and it turned out to be a dear little mouse had decided to have a little nibble at a pipe,

Poor little thing would have had a bit of a shock when he cut throught the rubber. Reminds me of a story I heard about some nocturnal visitors who tried to syphon off the diesel on a motorhome, only they opened the wrong filling point and put their hose into the sewage tank… They won’t be doing that in a hurry again…

Bike fixed and as the weather was fairly warm, decided to join the Saturday Jaunt, Mrs Editor thought it was still too cold at 5°c so stayed at home. Filled up with petrol and joined our group. Nice ride although we stopped a couple of times to confer with the map. Cup of coffee and nice ride home.

This coming group night is the AGM, so possibly my last magazine as editor. I would like to thank everyone who has, over the years, put in articles, put up with my wobbly spellings. So I hope that you will flood the new editor with write ups so that this important tool can continue. For some members the only contact they have with the group is through the magazine.

editor@suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com

Safe Riding

Felix.. Editor

Bowman’s Barn, Back Street, Gislingham, Suffolk. IP23 8JH. Tel: 07712649860

Thank you

To all the members who have contributed to this month’s magazine.

Note from Editor

Please check the SAM Calendar, Forum & Facebook page 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.

Any comments please email the editor.

Closing date for copy Friday 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

All members will have received a GDPR letter and form explaining that if you wish to opt out of receiving communications from SAM in emails, magazines, etc. Then complete and return the attached form as directed in the letter. Please only complete the form if you wish to opt out. Otherwise do nothing. Similarly, if you DO NOT wish to be mentioned in SAM publications, or other forms of SAM publicity as described in the letter then complete that section of the form. If you are happy to be included then you do not need to do anything.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact me. My contact details are in the magazine and contained in the letter.

EricAldridge SAM Secretary. Glendalough

Nigel and Judy Chittock were on a short break in Yorkshire with Chris & Susan Smith staying at Rosedale in June.

GTR talking to a few locals