The cover picture was taken by Mike Roberts and is of Orwell Motorcycles' new Suzuki Katana reviewed in the magazine, who also did the digital editing
Pictures from the EuroTrip Write up on page 10
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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 Publicity Co-ordinator Publicity Publicity Chief Ride Leader Webmaster Communications Magazine Editor
Derek Barker Brian Ellis Brian Ellis Rob Baker Glyn Hill Dean Harris Trevor Read Dean Harris Mike Roberts Les Smith Felix Oliver
01473 327555 07740 564097 07740 564097 07710 537844 07986 319163 07956 339112 07525 724002 07956 339112 01473 718915 07792 273334 07712 649860
Committee Support Members Membership Secretary Linda Barker Associate Co-ordinator Susan Smith Admin Support Sara Hale Buddy Co-ordinator Vicky Smith
01473 327555 07791 595048 01359 241552 01255 830352
National Observers Mike Roberts 01473 718915 Richard Toll 07855 838347 Geoff Scott 07983 939998 Paul Newman 01473 620450 Paul Ballard 07850 715063 Kevin Brendish 07854 494041
David Rudland Ross Mckinlay AndrĂŠ Castle Ruth Acworth Tony Chyc
01473 401362 07986 838028 07730 526674 07783 007100 01206 231782
Local Observers Steve Gocher Dean Harris John Rudland Phil Sayer Terry Fellowes Ian Bishop
01473 430643 07956 339112 07740 874300 07990 565451 07870 764187 07775 920661
Richard Ockelton Rob Baker Matthew Barker Glyn Hill Graham Parker
07872 925532 07710 537844 07931 700725 07986 319163 07905 468995
I.A.M. Examiner Ian Maxwell
07974 941545
Neale McConnell
07899 714136
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Contents Parking, France Committee Chairman’s Chat Latest Associates IAM Test Passes SAM Promotion dates Motorcycle Dexterity & Control A Euro trip SAM Theory Evening Video Clips A Different sort of bike Brinerion Lodge SAM’s Breakfast Run Ride Co-Ordinator and leaders Thursday Chip ride Suzuki Katana Associate Only San Vincente Our Holiday London Ride Editorial Advertise Here Members Information SAM Dates for you Diary Menin Gate Our Venue
by Eric Aldridge by Richard Ockelton
by Glyn Hill by Derek Barker by Eric Aldridge by Derek Barker by Les Smith by Les Smith by Sonnie Westley by Sara Hale by Mike Roberts by Dean Harris by Karl Grimwade by Jean & Sonnie Westley by Sam Watkins by Editor by Committee by Mike Roberts by Eric Aldridge`
2 3 5 6 6 7 8 10 16 17 18 18 20 22 23 24 27 27 28 30 32 33 34 35 39 40
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 July 2019
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Chairman's Chat A very warm welcome to the July’s edition of the SAM Observer, Hope you are all making the best of the interesting riding conditions we are currently having. Recently as a group we have been approached by SERV East Anglia, as Seventeen of their members, now have to take the Fellowship qualification. They also joined SAM as part of the process which was quite an influx of new members, as well as being associates last month. I would like to say a big thank you to the following: Linda Barker for getting all the signing up paperwork done in such a short period of time. Susan Smith in allocating these new associates into the system whilst not impact our existing associates. Then of course all of the Observer team for taking on as many associates as possible, which is no mean feat on its own. To all of them a very much appreciated BIG THANK YOU. If you have not yet registered or are considering, taking part in this year’s chief challenge it is still open. You may wish to do it as an individual as a pair, or even a small group. To enter is free; all you need to do is email karlsarahale@btinternet.com. I would like to Thank June’s guest speaker Dave Halsall, for his talk on Reiten Motorrad Suffolk BMW. July’s Guest speakers are the Crew of the East Anglia Air Ambulance, we hope to have the Helicopter displayed on site, (if not called out). We have also booked the large hall at Greshams for the event. Our editor Felix is always looking for new photographs and adventures that you may have been on recently for the magazine, thank you.
Cheers
Richard
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New Associate Members A warm welcome is extended to our most recent Associate members:
Christopher Thrower Dr Peter Hall 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.
Chris Bond his Observer was Tony Chyc Andrew Goodey with a F1rst, Observer Glyn hill Al Foreman his Observer was Richard Ockelton Malcom Hawken his Observer was Mathew Barker When you pass your advanced test please let Derek Baker or Susan Smith know. The SAM Observer July 2019
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SUFFOLK ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS PROMO DATES 2019 These are the dates your promotions team are attending this year, if you would like to help at any of these events contact Glyn Hill 07986319163. Come and join us for a day to see how we get people to sign up to SAM, it’s a good day out and great fun. I look forward to hearing from you. August 3rd August 3rd August 4th September 7th September 14th October 5th October 6th
The SAM Observer July 2019
Wheels Event Trinity Park Safe Rider Wheels Event Trinity Par Safe Rider Orwells Demo Day Safe Rider Police Headquarters Copdock Bike Show
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Motorcycle Dexterity & Control 2019 Motorcycle Dexterity & Control Days (a.k.a. Slow Riding Days) The Observer team in 2019 will again be running Motorcycle Dexterity & Control Days just for associates (plus a training event for Observers). For every motorcycle spill that makes the local papers, there are many more which never get much publicity. How many of you in your time riding have never struggled to keep your bike upright while manoeuvring in a parking area, or had to take a big dab with either foot while negotiating queues of commuter traffic? Not many (if any). Very often in these situations the rider grabs a handful of front brake, shortly followed by the resulting sound of expensive plastic and metal making contact with the ground. 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. This year the dates are: Saturday Sunday Saturday Sunday
20th July 18th August 14th September 27th October
Associates Only Associates and Full Members Associates Only Associates Only
All events start at 09:00 SHARP and the venue will be the playground of Sidegate Primary School, Sidegate Lane, Ipswich. IP4 4JD It is strongly recommended before you attend one of SAM's Dexterity days, you inform your Insurance Company that you intend to practise slow speed machine control in a school playground off road on tarmac, ask them to confirm that you will have full cover for this activity. Numbers are limited to these events to 10 per session so please book early by Email to karlsarahale@btinternet.com to guarantee a space. NB. Please bring a drink/snack with you as there are no refreshment facilities on site. The SAM Observer July 2019
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A Euro Trip for Virgins Meeting at Copdock on an overcast Saturday morning we were apprehensively sitting astride our bikes ready for the 'off'. This was the accumulation of months of extensive planning, preparation, emails, hints and tips from John Jenkins and Bryan Duncan. John originally conceived the idea that it would be a great idea to give a taste of travelling in Europe, to use the Eurotunnel and to experience group riding on the 'wrong side' of the road to both Associate and Advanced riders who had little or no experience out of the UK. The first problem John and Bryan encountered, apparently, was how to communicate that a trip was being planned. Bearing in mind, of course, that this trip was NOT a SAM sponsored ride and was, in fact, open to anybody receiving, or who had had, advanced training. Bryan placed an article written by John in the SAM magazine and along with Richard Ockelton gave a short presentation talk at Group Night. This produced interest from twenty members. John Jenkins mentioned the same at a RoSPA meeting. The result was a mixed total of twenty four bikes from Sam and RoSPA, a third of which carried pillions. In the event, two bikes had to pull out through no fault of their own, but this still left twenty two bikes and twenty nine people involved. The routes had been planned by John Jenkins allowing for various stops for fuel, coffee and lunch breaks. We were split into four groups. The groups were to be led by “experienced” riders (all were or had been Observers and/or Ride Leaders) and the majority of riders had satnavs with the preloaded routes. Unfortunately, installing the routes in the various satnavs proved to be far from easy and, when in use, highlighted the fact that Garmin and Tom-Tom didn't always choose the same route between points. This led to a little confusion, but utilising group riding best practice, following the leader always led us to the destination. As some riders elected to meet at Folkestone, the remaining Euro Virgins left Copdock in temporary groups, still led by an “experienced” rider and headed to Eurotunnel at Folkestone where everyone, eventually, gathered in the nearby service station and reformed into the pre-planned groups. We had 3 days riding planned with Saturday-Calais to Arras (121 miles), Sunday-Arras to Ypres (280miles), Monday-Ypres to Calais (105miles). Overnight hotels were pre-booked. The plan was to avoid motorways and generally use 'D' roads. This gave us the opportunity to experience a variation of road surfaces on straight and twisting The SAM Observer July 2019
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(some tricky hairpins) routes through little French and Belgian villages and towns. The panoramic views and rural settings were beautiful and we were fortunate to have dry, sunny days to travel (except a couple of showers near Ypres whilst on a motorway). The villagers were friendly and at times greeting us with a wave. The roads were extremely quiet and the pretty villages didn't seem very busy, except in the roadside cafes with locals enjoying a glass of wine in the sunshine. Several of us notice/commented how clean the towns and verges were, devoid of any litter and fly-tipping. We left the fuel station in Folkestone and arrived at the terminal. We (as instructed) had our passports and credit cards; which we had used to pre-book the train, to hand. First the boarding cards were issued on presentation of our credit card at the ticket machine. This proved unexpectedly interesting as one of the party had never used a credit card before! Then to passport control at the British border crossing; helmets/glasses off helmets/glasses on. Several pulled in for vehicle checks! Helmets/glasses off Helmets/glasses on.
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Now on to the passport control at the French border crossing; helmets/glasses off - helmets/glasses on. Finally we were allowed into the allocated lane for boarding - Phew!! We boarded the train in at one end and slowly moved along the carriages until finally parking on the side stand diagonally across the carriage. By this stage we were very pleased to remove our helmets and jackets to relax. Being unfamiliar with the bikes on trains we were very nervous when they started 'rocking'. One bike, momentarily left unattended did fall over just as the train 'lurched' again. I was in a separate carriage so I did not see it, but you could just imagine the expletives used by the bike owner to express his annoyance! This is a salutary lesson when using Eurostar – be very careful how you park your bike as they are not strapped down and do not leave it unattended unless you really have it. Once off the train we formed into our groups and set off into the countryside. There were no obvious issues with the 'right side' driving and everybody settled into formation. In my group none of us had ridden together before so there was a familiarisation process to go through, but we gelled well together. There were a few occasions when groups caught up and faster groups passed slower groups. This had been previously agreed, should the situation occur, but we generally only met at pit stops and tried to start off separately. Some varied the routes curtesy of TomTom or Garmin. There were also some detours due to road works; nothing new there. In one remote location we missed the detour sign and rode up to the barrier before we realised. However, undaunted, we wouldn't let the road closure barriers stop us as there was a perfectly good footpath alongside we could use. Observation of speed limits was paramount both to ride correctly and to avoid nasty foreign letters dropping in the letter box later. Most radar cameras were signed, but unlike the UK, these were anonymous grey boxes at floor level, although they were actually in the place that was stated. The French do not allow satnavs to pre-warn drivers of known camera locations and I had the dubious pleasure of a bell ringing in my headphones as I passed one camera as overtaking vehicles exceeding the The SAM Observer July 2019
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limit were triggering the camera. Incidentally, I read yesterday that the French sent a backlog of fines before the March Brexit deadline so in October I guess that there will be another batch winging its way. But no matter how far you travel abroad, you always meet somebody near where you live. In our case it was the street in which we parked in Arras! We arrived in Arras the first evening and settled into our hotel. During the evening meal we were able to relax and meet the rest of the groups and take in the French cuisine and refreshments. Next day after breakfast we set off set off to Ypres. Whilst never taken by the Germans during WWI, they had a damn good go at removing Ypres from the face of the earth. The rebuilding programme started around 1920 and the buildings were exact replicas of their previous self. This was a longer day in the saddle and the final 30 miles was mostly on motorway, sometimes in rain. Also on the approach to Ypres we experienced a different running 'surface' – a road that had had all of the original road surface removed, leaving only the wet sandy soil and clay that was underneath! The route passed numerous 'battle' sites, war cemeteries and memorials. We were on a deadline to reach Ypres and this was only a 'taster' trip so we have already discussed revisiting the area with an opportunity to visit the places that we passed in a blur. Arriving in Ypres we found the market square and we settled in to our hotels (this time we were not together but situated around the main square in three hotels). After freshening up we all went to the Menin Gate Memorial. This a massive memorial naming each of the British and Commonwealth 54,395 soldiers The SAM Observer July 2019
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who lost their lives in the Ypres Salient of World War 1 and whose graves are unknown. One of our group had actually lost a relative in the fighting at Ypres during the First World War and so the trip held a special significance for him. The brief, but extremely moving, 'Last Post' ceremony takes place every evening of the year at eight o’clock to commemorate the event. Bryan had carried a wreath with a sash bearing the SAM name along with the words “least we forget” all the way from England just for this occasion.
Bryan, John Jenkins and Richard Ockelton joined other wreath bearers in the wreath-laying ceremony. They placed the reef under the list of soldiers from Suffolk Regiments. Thanks go to John Sillitt for donating the sash for the wreath. After looking around the memorial we moved on to a pre-ordered meal in a local restaurant, although, as always happens, some had forgotten what they had ordered and waited to see what was left. The following day we remounted (with a few sore and tender bits) and headed for Calais. Unfortunately, the trip to the first coffee stop took a little longer than The SAM Observer July 2019
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we would have liked so three groups headed straight to Calais for lunch and didn't stop at the very impressive Todt Gun Battery site as planned – I feel another trip is in order! It was originally planned as a Saturday to Monday trip as it was assumed that these would be the quietest days of the week for the tunnel. As we headed to the terminal it became horribly apparent that we had not allowed for the fact that this was the end of the Le Mans weekend and the place was 'heaving'! In the queues to border controls some groups/riders became separated and as we waited in our 'train lane' we realised some of our group had been allocated on different trains. Worst still, in the surprisingly hot weather and incredibly long queues, two bikes had broken down, totalling refusing to start. They were rescued by terminal mechanics and helpful bikers. As a result we all arrived at Folkestone in a mixture of groups on a number of trains. It had already been agreed by our group that keeping together on the M25/A12 in rush hour would be impossible. Also some of the party headed off to another 'event'. For the rest of us, it was off home after travelling some 800 miles. I'm pleased to report that all bikes and riders returned home safely with no mishaps. Everyone I have spoken to and certainly those within our group agreed that the whole trip was a brilliant experience and something we would all like to do again. Also, if this trip was designed to get people who have not travelled abroad on two wheels before interested in expanding their horizons in this area, it certainly worked. Our thanks must go to John for arranging the trip, the routes, hotels, meals etc., etc. Also to the experienced people who led groups and kept us all safe and sound. Personally, I thank you all for the friendship, laughs, fun and enjoyment over the trip and look forward to the next one. Bring it on!
Eric Aldridge
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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 Cornering
Planning & Positioning 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 July 2019
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Do you have recent video clips from SAM Events? Calling all SAM members who use Action Camera’s on their ride outs – do you have short video clips of SAM events in 2019? We have decided that it’s time to update our SAM promotional video – starting with some mock up’s of what we are trying to achieve, before we commission a professional to create our new video. Les Smith our Communications Officer has volunteered to take the lead on the project – and is looking for video clips of the following:Observed ride in progress – follow up over coffee at the end Club Night Group meet for run Breakfast Group riding – with ride leader Coffee & Cake – Saturday Jaunt Chip Night Chiefs Challenge If you have suitable video clips please contact Les by e-mail at – communications@suffolk-advanced-motorcyclists.com – he will then send you a link to online storage for the video clips. We are also looking for some “willing” volunteers to take part in the official video shoot – which we hope will be some time this autumn – please e-mail Les if you are interested in joining the fun.
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SAM Member taking on a different sort of Biking Challenge. On 4th August this year SAM Communications Officer Les the Surrey Hills on 2 wheels – but no engine involved.
Smith is taking on
Earlier this year Les reached one of those milestone birthdays – you know, the ones that have a zero at the end of them – so on reaching the grand age of 60 decided to challenge himself to celebrate!!! – and hopefully raise some money for a good cause along the way. Les is riding the 2019 Prudential Ride London Surrey 100 (miles that is) as part of The British Lung Foundation’s (BLF) “Team Breathe” – starting at the Olympic Park in Stratford – going through London, into the Surrey Hills – climbing Leith Hill and Box Hill – before heading back into London – and down The Mall to the finish line in front of Buckingham Palace.. If any of our members would like to learn more about why Les is taking on this challenge or would like to sponsor him for a few pennies - you can read all about it on his fundraising page - https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LeslieSmith2 You can also learn more about the British Lung Foundation and the great work they do at - www.blf.org.uk
Brinerion Lodge. Sonnie Westley, Write up to follow in August Issue The SAM Observer July 2019
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BREAKFAST RUN 4th August 2019 Green Pastures Farm Shop Mill Road, Bergh Apton Norfolk, NR15 1BQ Tel: 01508 480734, http://www.greenpasturesnursery.co.uk Meet at Beacon Hill Services on the junction of the A140 and A14, IP6 8LP in good time for a 09:00 Briefing and subsequent departure. All riders must attend Briefing. Ride Co-ordinator: Rob Baker Exit the services and join the A140 to the bottom of the dip and turn right. Go through Coddenham and Ashbocking to turn right at Otley Bottoms and then left towards Wickham Market. On entering Wickham turn left down the narrow lane on the apex of the left hand bend. After the narrow bridge turn right and then left onto the B1116 through Framlingham to Dennington. At the church turn right then left. Just past the sharp left hander where a road goes off to the right to Laxfield (still with me?) turn right through Fressingfield into Harleston. Turn first right into Spirketts Lane and right again at the ‘T’ to join the A143 to the left. Just over 2 miles later turn left onto Tunbreck Road, through Alburgh towards Hempnall. Turn right on the B1527 – Bungay Road – to Woodton. Turn left on the B1332 to Brooke, turning right signposted Seething Church. Turn to the left of the pond and on to Bergh Apton. At the end of the village turn left at the ‘T’ and then first right into Mill Lane, at the end of which Green Pastures is on the right. The SAM Observer July 2019
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Ride Co-ordinators and Ride Leaders
Ride Co-ordinator and Ride Leader Chief Ride Leader Dean Harris David Wood Vini Evans Richard Ockelton
Brian Ellis Robert Baker Karl Grimwade
Glyn Hill Nick Braley
Ride Leaders Ken Beckinsale Mike Roberts Eric Aldridge Adrian Tadman
Tim Wash Trevor Read Alex Jones
Martin Drury Fred Sparrow Nigel Pye
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 July 2019
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chip ride 29th August 2019 Codfather, 37, King Street, Sudbury, CO10 2EQ Tel: 01787 882100 Meet at Morrisons Hadleigh IP7 6LB, in good time for a 18:00 Briefing and subsequent departure. All riders must attend Briefing. Ride Co-ordinator is Richard Ockelton. Leave Morrisons towards the fire station roundabout. Turn right onto Aldham Mill Hill. At the T Junction turn left on A1071. Take the next right on to the A1141 signposted Lavenham. Continue to Bildeston and immediately turn left on to B1115 (Signposted Sudbury). Continue through Chelsworth. At the T junction in Monks Eleigh turn right onto A1141 towards Lavenham. At the T junction in Lavenham turn left on to B1071. Pass the church on the right and then turn right at the junction on the bend (Bridge Street). At T junction turn left on to A134. After approx. 1 mile turn right on to A1092 (Tourist sign Long Melford). Continue through Long Melford (B1064). At the roundabout turn right (3rd exit) onto A131 (Signposted Sudbury/Long Melford. Follow the one-way system to the town centre keeping to the left of the church after the sharp right hand bend. Just past the Codfather chip shop you can park on the Market Square on the right (CO10 2EA). The SAM Observer July 2019
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SUZUKI KATANA A MODERN VERSION OF AN EIGHTIES CLASSIC Back in 1981 Suzuki released the original Katana 1100, and its radical styling stunned and divided the motorcycle world. Roll forward to 2019 and a new Katana has been released. In the modern world of angular, Transformer styled, motorcycles it doesn’t look so radical, but it is still different enough to split opinions. Me? I think it looks great, and when I saw the first teaser photos a few months ago, and saw one for real at the London Motorcycle Show, I was keen to get a test ride.
Orwell Motorcycles had posted on Facebook that they had now got a demo bike on the road, so after an Observed Ride with my SAM Associate, we finished at the showroom and I enquired about a test ride. The bike had been out that morning, but luckily for me it was free for the afternoon. After a quick cup of coffee, and completing the necessary paperwork, I was sat outside astride a very new demo machine, adjusting the mirrors, while the 1000cc engine burbled away below me. Pull in the clutch, select first with the slick gear lever and pull away. Only to my embarrassment (there are always people watching) I stalled it. And then I did the same again. Another 4 times! Initially I blamed the fact that my Triumph Explorer’s clutch bite point is almost where the lever is fully released (a constant cause of moans on the owners’ forums), whereas the Katana’s is as soon The SAM Observer July 2019
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as the lever moves away from the bar. I’ve just looked back at my review of the Suzuki GSX-S1000, which the Katana is based on, in the September 2017 edition of the SAM magazine (you can read it online), to find I did the same with that. Very strange, but I had no further problems. Out on the road the Katana is a very capable bike. The 150hp engine spins up quickly whatever gear you are in. It’s almost impossible to be in a wrong gear for a corner or overtake. The exhaust produces a nice rasping sound, but my memory says that it is not as loud as the GSX-S1000 I rode. Now one of the things that I often write about is the awful throttle actions/responses of many modern bikes. The GSX-S1000 was a guilty machine. I’m pleased to report that the Katana’s throttle action is superb. Yes, it is very light, but now when around town and when trying to ride at a constant speed, there is none of the hunting and jerking. I don’t know if this is a mechanical change to the throttle or a change in the ECU, but, hopefully, they can back port it to the GSX. The demo bike had the optional Samurai styling pack fitted. One of the items is a small fly screen above the headlamp. It doesn’t look like it would do much, but the way it is fitted leaves a tunnel between it and the instrument cover. The air travels through here, causing it rise up. It’s not tourer levels of protection, but for what is essentially a naked motorcycle, I was surprised how effective it was. One part of the new bike’s styling, that the original didn’t have, is the floating
number plate and rear light. This is the cause of some of the love/hate divide when people first see the bike. The Ducati Diavel has something similar. I quite The SAM Observer July 2019
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like it. How effective it would be on a rainy day I can’t say, as my test ride was conducted in glorious sunshine.
The bike has modern LED lighting and an easy to read display. Unlike many new bikes, this is LCD and not TFT, but I had no problems reading the main items on a bright day. There are also several levels of traction control to select from. Is there anything I’d change? Yes. I’d soften the rear suspension (NB. I don’t know if it was set as standard or not). I also found the seat very hard and sloping forward. Another bike for my fantasy garage. If I was purchasing though, it would be a hard decision between the Katana and the GSX-S1000. There’s an approximate £1000 premium, and whether you prefer the sit in riding position of the GSX or the sit on of the Katana to consider. Or would the styling win you over? Thanks again to Orwells for the test ride.
Mike Roberts
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Associate Only Ride This year an 'Associates Only' ride has been planned for Saturday 27th July 2019 meeting at Beacon hill services for a 09:30 briefing. There will be an in depth briefing on how to mark junctions and ride within a group just in case you have not done this before so please be there in good time. The ride is for breakfast and will be heading to The Red Poll cafĂŠ in Darsham, Suffolk. Groups will change for the return journey which will be via a different route. You will be escorted back to Beacon Hill for about 2pm for a coffee and feedback. This ride is to encourage both new and old associates to join in a group ride which will run at a leisurely pace. There will be no pressure to keep up and no one will be watching your riding. The route will consist of A and B roads, nothing too complicated but it will give you an opportunity to practice your skills learnt during your observed rides and the chance to meet other associates. The ride will be guided by members of the ride leader team so no need to worry about how to get there and back. You will need to book your place before the event so we can ensure we have enough ride leaders to escort you round. The deadline is Friday 19th July 2019 email Sara Hale karlsarahale@btinternet.com to confirm.
San Vincente de Barquera by Karl Grimwade, Write up to follow next month. The SAM Observer July 2019
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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
Photo of Jean and Sonnies trip to Ireland. Write up to follow in August Issue The SAM Observer July 2019
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Ride London 2019 My name is Sam and I’ve been a member of SAM since 2007. You may not have seen much of me and my Hayabusa the past couple of years as I had a serious accident on a push bike in 2017 while training for a charity event. Why was I training for a 45 mile cycle ride in 2017? Well I wanted to do something amazing to celebrate the fact I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 40 years previously. In April, a friend invited me to do a charity cycle ride in October 2017 of 45 miles. Being type 1, it is not just a question of getting fit – I do not produce my own insulin to make use of the glucose in my blood. I replace that function manually. I give insulin via my insulin pump every 3minutes and each dose lasts for 4 hours. This means my blood sugar now is the result of what happened between 15minutes ago and 4 hours ago. That means I am stuck with any decisions made even though my requirements may have changed dramatically. When that comes to long cycle rides, I need to work out insulin I need through doing and learning. And even then, it’s not guaranteed as I may catch a cold or eat something new or not be able to sleep because I’m a bit nervous about riding a long way. There are 42 identified factors impacting glucose control in type 1 diabetics so this is not simple! So what? What has that got to do with not riding your motorcycle? The SAM Observer July 2019
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Well, while training in August 2017, I came off my push bike and broke 5 bones in my face. I had surgery to pull it back together, but it took a while to get over it all. The organisers of that first ride got in touch Feb 2018 and offered me a place on the ride that October. After much deliberation, I did it and really enjoyed the training, getting fit and pushing myself to help others. This year, I am riding 100 miles during the Prudential Ride London Event on the 4th August to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF)
Isn’t that a bit self-serving? A bit but I was very lucky, although it hasn’t been trivial being diagnosed when I was 4. My parents were determined I achieved all that I could, I could look after myself and I had the best chance of growing up and leaving home. Learning to ride a push bike 3 months after diagnosis was part of that. This is my chance to say thank you to them and to the JDRF for all that they do. I’m 46 now and not only can ride 100 miles but I’ve never had any diabetic complications which can include blindness (diabetic retinopathy is the 3rd highest cause of blindness in the UK, nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy – I know people with a pump for their insulin and one for their morphine as they are in constant pain), kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy) or gastropareses (where the nerves to the stomach are so badly damaged it impacts how you digest food). JDRF sponsors research to help type 1 diabetics survive, thrive and are looking to cure type 1. Please help me help JDRF make type one type none by sponsoring me at https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SamJWatkins
Sam Watkins
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Editorial Thank you for everyone who has sent in write ups on your adventures with your bikes, it’s been brilliant thank you, Sorry also for any disappointment if your article didn’t make this copy, but fear not it’s been rolled over to next month. Summer is not here and this current weekend, 3 weeks ago was one of the best weekends this year. Of course the flip side is that the nights are now drawing in and the dreaded “C” word is looming over the horizon. Already seen posts on Facebook…. Been out a couple of times this month, few more points taken down from the Chiefs Challenge, Keep the articles coming in because it’s great to read about your adventures. As some of you can remember this magazine a few years ago won the IAM best newsletter award. We entered again this year but lost out to a car group from down south… so in the run up to next year’s competition we need to keep it nice and full with travel story’s 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….
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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 July 2019
Rob Chandler, Alex Mason,
01493 730409 01603 716735
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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 July 2019
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SAM Events for your Diary July 2019 Tuesday 16th SAM Group Night. Announcements at 19:30 followed by, Guest Speaker , and visit from the East Anglian Air Ambulance.. Greshams, 312 Tuddenham Road, Ipswich IP4 3QJ Bar serving all types of drinks including teas and coffees. Thursday 18th 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: Overtaking Saturday 20th M/C Dexterity & Control. Sidegate Primary School, 292 Sidegate Lane, Ipswich IP4 4JD. For more details see page 8 Thursday 25th Chip ride, Yates Fish & Chips, CO14 8AH Meet in car park behind B&M Home Store at Copdock, IP8 3TT in good time for 18:15 Briefing and subsequent departure All riders must attend Briefing Saturday, 27th Associate Only Ride You will need to book your place before the event so we can ensure we have enough ride leaders to escort you round. The deadline is Friday 19th July. Contact Sara Hale email: karlsarahale@btinternet.com to confirm.
August 2019 Friday 2nd ~ Saturday 3rd Safe Rider is a joint initiative between Suffolk and Norfolk Constabularies. If you can help the Publicity Team on the Saturday of this event, please contact Glyn Hill on 07986-319163 Saturday 3rd ~ Sunday 4th Wheels Trinity Park The SAM publicity team will be at this event. Times to be confirmed. If you would like to help please contact: Dean Harris or Glyn Hill. Sunday, 4th Breakfast Run, Green Pastures Farm Shop. NR15 1BQ. Meet at Beacon Hill Services on the junction of the A140 and A14 IP6 8LP in good time for a 09:00 Briefing and subsequent departure. All riders must attend Briefing. Wednesday 7th SAM Committee meeting 19:30. Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF
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Saturday, 17th Ride Leader Training If you are interested in training the day starts at 09:00 and finishing 15:30; All places need to be booked via Sara Hale. email: karlsarahale@btinternet.com Any questions regarding being a R/C or R/L ask Dean Harris Saturday 18th M/C Dexterity & Control. Sidegate Primary School, 292 Sidegate Lane, Ipswich IP4 4JD. For more details see page 8 Tuesday 20th SAM Group Night. Announcements at 19:30 followed by, Guest Speaker, Phil Paxton from sorrymate.com. Greshams, 312 Tuddenham Road, Ipswich IP4 3QJ Bar serving all types of drinks including teas and coffees. Thursday 22nd 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: Planning & Positioning Sunday, 25th Copdock Show Charity Ride, To Thorpness, we would much appreciate SAM’s support in providing static marshals. Currently it looks like we will need 19 marshals. If you can help please see Rob Barker Thursday 29th Chip ride, Codfather, CO10 2EQ Meet at Morrisons Hadleigh IP7 6LB, in good time for a 18:15 Briefing and subsequent departure All riders must attend Briefing
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.
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More pictures from the Euro trip Menin Gate
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