Open House Issue 93 by TheNABD

ISSUE 93 EDITED BY

Vic Hawkes

IN THIS

ISSUE

REGULARS An Introduction to the NABD

Chairman’s Chunk

A Rough Guide to Adaptations

NABD Affiliated Clubs

NABD Merchandise

NABD Patrons

advertising@thenabd.org.uk

NABD National Committee & Representatives

TEL

NABD Affiliated Businesses

FEATURES

You’ve Been NABD From The Inside

The Highways England Motorcycle Safety Working Group

Road Racer’s Run 2017

ADAPTATIONS

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly, & the Very Unique

Peter Burch’s K-Lever 2

End of a Long Road

Tony William’s Trike Conversion

Suzuki 1000 Trike Fitter with a Reverse Gear Kit

PUBLISHERS

Red Hen Promotions Ltd PO Box 75 Brighouse West Yorkshire HD6 3WF

TEL

01484 400666

info@redhenpromotions.com

ADVERTISING SALES 0844 415 4849

All enquiries, correspondence and so on to: The NABD Unit 20, The Bridgewater Centre Robson Avenue Urmston Manchester M41 7TE Telephone: 0844 415 4849 Email: office@thenabd.org.uk Web: www.nabd.org.uk Articles on varied relevant subjects for inclusion in Open House are always welcome from all members. Email or post your articles to the contact details above. Please enclose original photographs or digital images of good quality/size (750kb minimum) on a CD - please do not embed in word documents as we cannot use them. Also images printed on inkjet printers or using plain paper are of no use whatsoever so please don’t send them. Submissions may be edited before publishing. Please remember that articles received after copy dates CANNOT be included Copy Date for the next issue of Open House (Issue 94) is 9th September 2019.

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an introduction to...

The National Association for Bikers with a Disability The NABD was set up in April 1991 by a group of people in Manchester who believe that disabled people should have full access to the independence and freedom of motorcycling. During the past twenty years, this unique Association has developed immensely. The membership of the NABD has increased to over 7,500 individuals from all over Britain, Eire and Europe with well over 150 clubs, groups and businesses affiliating to show their support of our aims. The NABD has many diverse aspects including: FINANCIAL GRANTS To assist with the cost of special adaption work to bikes and trikes to suit the individual requirements of disabled riders. These grants range from £100 to £2,000 dependant on the type of machine and the specific needs of the disabled rider. NABD grants are also now available toward the costs of refresher training and assessments. ASSESSMENTS AND TRAINING The NABD has a number of “learner legal” machines, which are adapted to suit various disabilities. These machines are lent to disabled riders free of charge for the purposes of professional training/tests and rider assessments. The NABD also offer financial help with the cost of refresher training for riders who have become disable due to traumatic accidents or who have endured a protracted period of time off the road. INSURANCE The NABD has negotiated discount rates for members from some of the more reputable companies. Where an individual has difficulty obtaining a reasonable quotation we will attempt to negotiate a satisfactory conclusion. Bikesure Insurance (part of the Adrian Flux Group) in cooperation with the NABD operate a unique discounted insurance scheme for our members. It is our belief that; “When it comes to motorcycling, a disability should not be a handicap”.

REPRESENTATIVES The NABD has a wide network of appointed representatives throughout Britain who co-ordinate the efforts of local members and organise regular meetings and fund-raising events. AWARENESS The NABD is constantly trying to educate the organisers of motorcycle events to the fundamental needs of disabled riders. Many organisers now ask our advice on facilities for people with disabilities as a matter of course. NABD information and publicity stands attend a large number of motorcycling and disability events each year throughout the British Isles. The NABD’s quarterly magazine, Open House, which gives a broad view of the work of the association, is distributed to every NABD member and affiliate and to other supporters and interested parties. ADAPTIONS The adaptions made to motorcycles and trikes are as varied as current technology will allow. Adaptions range from simple re-siting of existing controls, to the fitting of specially designed kits or even the building of specialised vehicles where necessary to suit the particular needs of a disabled rider. Due to the detailed engineering work involved, the NABD utilises a network of professional engineers throughout Britain and Eire. EVENTS The NABD holds many events around Britain throughout the year. These NABD events range from major annual motorcycle rallies to smaller fund-raising activities. Although these events are intended primarily to raise funds, they have gained a reputation for being good value, quality entertainment. Several of the more regular events are now classed as some of the best on the motorcycle scene. FINANCE The administration of the NABD is financed entirely from the proceeds of membership fees and our own direct fund-raising efforts.

All donations made to the NABD are used solely to fund the adaption grants and other services offered to disabled riders by the Association. The NABD is a voluntary association. We only have two paid employees, a full-time office administrator and a full-time admin assistant. The gross turnover of the NABD for 2012-1013 was over £275,000.00 OTHER FUNDING The NABD are constantly seeking funding from sources like the National Lottery and the European Union. We are also seeking sponsorship from commercial interests and the motorcycle industry in particular. MEMBERSHIP NABD membership is available to anyone with a love of motorcycling irrespective of disability. Each member receives a members pack, the Open House magazine; discount prices on some items of NABD merchandise. Also and perhaps more importantly, members get the chance to help lots of people enhance their lives in a practical and constructive way. Affiliations from motorcycle clubs and businesses are also very welcome. See www.nabd.org.uk for further details, or contact the NABD office (contact details on page 1). CAMPAIGNING The NABD has several objectives concerning the rights and safety of disabled riders. This includes a current campaign for the inclusion of both motorcycles and trikes on the Government sponsored “Motability” scheme. We also work closely with MAG and BMF on many issues affecting the rights of bikers. THE FUTURE Over the years the NABD has helped thousands of people with disabilities to enjoy the independence and the freedom of motorcycling. With the continued support of the biking community the NABD will remain the world’s foremost support group for disabled bikers!

NABD Website: www.nabd.org.uk NABD Public Web Forum: www.forum.disabledbiker.co.uk NABD E-Mail: office@thenabd.org.uk The views and opinions expressed in Open House are not necessarily those of the editor or the NABD and no responsibility can be accepted for any action taken as a result of reading any of the information herein. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or part is prohibited without prior permission of NABD.

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Apologies for the delay in getting this latest issue published. Vic Hawkes has done a splendid job since taking over from me as editor of Open House but he still faces some of the same issues I had with the job, the most annoying of which is; waiting for people to submit their content. Unfortunately the person who has primarily been responsible for the delay in this issue is me, hence the apology from the outset. Open House: This is our first ‘online only’ publication of Open House so all I can do is hope it all goes smoothly (thankfully none of that falls within my bailiwick so any additional delays will not be down to me). I know that Simon Freedman (NABD Webmaster) has put a lot of time and effort into identifying and settingup the best software for publishing the Open House magazine online but that does not necessarily mean there will be no teething troubles with this first online issue. Please be patient and understanding of any delays or

hiccups. Simon is doing his best to get this new system to do what we want it to do and he will obviously be addressing issues and making improvements as further issues are published but, like most of the NABD committee members, he must also satisfy the requirements of the fulltime paid employment that allows him to do this voluntary work for the NABD. One of the issues we must address is, ‘How do we let NABD members know when an online issue has been published?’ I know that Simon has been looking at some ‘Apps’ that can be put onto smart phones that will notify members of publication and supply the link to the latest issue, but there are also many members who do not have ‘smartphones’ (myself included) and yet others who do not have regular access to the internet. We will no doubt solve these problems in the not too distant future but, for the time being, we will have to rely on circulating the notifications via the NABD website, Facebook pages and on Twitter etc.

Changes to Memberships & Renewals: For some time now we have been looking at ways to make it easier for new people to join the NABD and for existing members to renew their memberships without putting undue strain on their finances. At the NABD annual general meeting in June 2019 it was agreed that, as of October 2019, the cost of initial membership should be lowered to £24.00 and that the cost of annual membership renewal should be raised to £24.00. By equalising these costs we are then able to offer members the facility of paying their membership fees at £2.00 per month instead of having to find the whole amount all at once. Hopefully, the ease of this system will also see an increase in the number of members who renew their memberships annually as there will be a facility to ‘autorenew’. Currently, as I understand it, this £2.00 per month option is setup and readytogo via the NABD website www.nabd.org.uk (using PayPal as an intermediary) and, by 5

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the time it goes live in October, we will also have a direct debit system setup directly with the bank to offer members the choice of an annual direct debit of £24.00 or a monthly direct debit of £2.00. Existing members should receive direct notification of this new facility via the post as their membership renewals become due. You’ve Been Nabbed 28: The 2019 national rally in May proved to be something of a challenge when I was told, just two days before we were going on site to setup the event, that “Somebody has ‘accidently’ ploughed the part of the Royal Cheshire Showground where your event is to be held!” I’m still somewhat baffled as to how anybody manages to ‘accidently’ plough any field but, at the time, we did not have the luxury of time to contemplate such a surreal state of affairs. I had an emergency meeting with one of the Showground directors just one day before our setup was to begin and it was agreed that we would move to the opposite end of the showground, which meant us using a new entrance over a mile away from the one we used for the past two years and, of course, a whole new siteplan; which I had to drawup from scratch!

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Fortunately, over the past 28 years, some of us NABD committee members we have had quite a bit of practice at reacting to critical lastminute changes of plan. (As attested to by a song written in our honour by NABD Patron, Stevie Simpson; entitled “The Kings of WingingIt”). As dawn broke over my furrowed brow on the morning of Thursday May 9th, I headed for the new site with much trepidation and prepared for a hellish weekend of reacting to anything and everything going wrong. My self and our two wonderful ladies in the NABD office had spent the latter half of the previous day contacting everybody involved in the supply and settingup of the infrastructure and giving them the details of the new site. Other committee members had been down to the site putting diversion signs from the old entrance to the new one and a couple of stalwarts had volunteered to camp at the site the previous night to catch any early traders before I got there. I can’t honestly say I was looking forward to the weekend but I had obviously not taken into consideration the outstanding quality of the people who volunteer to help run and marshal NABD events. We did face many problems during the

setup of the event infrastructure, and many more once the event was open to the public, but each problem was dealt with in timely fashion and I can honestly say the event itself went wonderfully well. The feedback from those who attended the rally was overwhelmingly positive and many people expressed a preference for the new site over the old one. (Which is just as well because a ploughed field can take ten years or more to once again become fit for event use). The Showground directors and the local residents also expressed their admiration for our handling of the event and we have already booked the site again for next year (You’ve Been Nabbed 29: May 8th10th 2020). I salute each and every one of the volunteers who worked the event this year. They proved to be a very timely reminder of the outstanding quality of the people we have supporting the NABD and I was left feeling very humbled by their tireless efforts and indomitable good humour in the face of some extreme challenges. Nabdonia: After a steady fall in the number of people attending the Nabdonia rally at the Swallow Falls Hotel complex in North

Wales over recent years we had decided that this year’s event would be the last. Though many of the regular attendees really love this small but rather well formed event, it is the duty of the trustees to protect the funds of the NABD and, although Nabdonia was never going to be a significant fundraising event, we could not continue organising an event that was obviously going to make a loss.

NABD this event could offer alternatives to our other ‘camping only’ events.

It has always been part of the NABD philosophy that an event that just breaks even can still be classed as a success if it has provided a social event that has been enjoyed by NABD members and supporters.

100 people was the breakeven figure and for the first seven or eight years at Swallow Falls we had no problem surpassing that figure and onaverage the event would be four or five hundred pounds in profit. However, over the past three years the attendance has fallen to the point where the 2018 event lost just over £100.00. I would have called a halt to the event there and then but many of the regulars had already booked their rooms for 2019 and would have lost their deposits so we decided to run it one last time.

The Nabdonia rally had never been destined to be a big event like the You’ve Been Nabbed rally. It had originally been planned as a small fundraising event that could also provide a chance for many of the volunteer marshals from our larger events to get together socially where they had no duties other than to have a good time.

When I announced, at this year’s event, that this would be the last Nabdonia at Swallow falls; I was completely taken aback by the depth of feeling that ensued. Within minutes I had four separate members individually guaranteeing to personally cover any losses of future events if I would agree to keep it going.

When it moved to the Swallow Falls Hotel Complex it became an event where people had the choice of camping, youth hostel rooms, cheap bunkhouses or hotel rooms. With the increasing average age of bikers in general and the preponderance of people with disabilities within the

Not being one to disappoint NABD members when other options are available I put it to all of the 84 people in attendance that we would put the event on again next year due to the guarantees that had been given but if they really wanted it to continue beyond that, then

each of them should try to bring one more person along with them next year. This seemed to go down very well so I thought it only fair to bring it to the attention of all members. Nabdonia will survive for another year but beyond that, it will be down to whether enough members want a small friendly laidback event where loud bands and big crowds are replaced with camaraderie and more intimate entertainment. The next Nabdonia rally will be at the Swallow Falls Hotel Complex, Betwsy Coed, North Wales; July 3rd5th 2020. That’s my lot for now. Hopefully our next online issue will be published on time and by then we will nodoubt have learned many lessons from the issues raised in publishing this one. In the meantime I wish all NABD members and supporters the very best of good fortune, now I’m off into the hedgehog hospital to cleanup some mucky hutches, because not everything in life can be rocknroll…

Rick Hulse

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We have been doing our main event (You’ve Been NABD) for 28 years now and it seems to get harder each year. Last year (YBN27) our Rally Secretary, Wendy Seddon, decided it was to be her last one. Wendy had for years been organising the volunteer marshals and doing all the paperworky type things that we mere mortals just don’t understand, as well as the months in preparation and months afterwards making all the paperwork mean something. She had done an amazing job over the years, and the prospect of having to replace such a vital cog did not thrill us at all. In fact, it is amazing how many heads can stay below the parapet (mine was the lowest head of all). However, we had a prime target, sorry, volunteer, in our midst working as the NABD’s National Secretary and it didn’t take that much coercion to volunteer Tina – Err, I mean get her to volunteer – for the post. The sighs of relief could be heard up and down the country. To give everyone an insight into what goes on behind the scenes at a major event, I asked Tina to write a few words about her first (of many) You’ve Been NABD weekends. I say weekends, but for a lot of us it is almost a week long thing. Whilst our guests are (hopefully) partying and enjoying themselves, this is what Tina’s view of the weekend was...

In 2014 I joined the National Committee as Assistant Secretary. Having done some research, I was impressed with the financial management of the association and the fact that all donations are used to aide disabled bikers. I have continued to fulfil my role as National Secretary, which included researching, setting up and implementing the Gift Aid Scheme which is now seeing the association claiming 25% from the HMRC for every donation made by a qualifying donor. In the last 12 months, I have also been focusing on my additional responsibilities as Rally Secretary. This role involves ensuring there are sufficient shifts planned to cover all areas of the You’ve Been Nabbed rally; including Gate Manager, bar staff, litter picking, traffic marshals, kitchen staff and much more besides. Ensuring enough volunteers are also in place to cover the shifts is not as easy as one would have thought. There are approximately 130 volunteers required over the weekend. Then again that’s why YBN is such a bloody good rally!! Using volunteer’s skills, preferable tasks and taking people’s disabilities into account all play a part in allocating the shifts over the weekend to ensure 8

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everyone can have leisure time as well. Thankfully, I love all this type of stuff so relished in organising everything. Although it was a bit daunting to start with.

need but it does make it more interesting. Especially when the team are bribed with pizza and doughnuts. Then its last minute checks and the countdown begins.

Some stats for you to digest about voluntary YBN 28: Number of volunteers: 134

Thursday is always a busy and eventful day, with contractors arriving to set up or deliver equipment and volunteers arriving.

Number of Shifts ThuMon: 524 shifts Number of hours volunteered: 2384 hours * This doesn’t include contractors or entertainers This doesn’t include the 100’s of hours before the rally preparing the rota’s and paperwork, passes and other associated documents for Event Control. It’s unbelievable when you break it down just how many volunteered hours go into the YBN weekend from set up to break down. What does it entail then? It all starts on Wednesday. Loading Day There is a lot of equipment the association stores at the workshop, so a team is pulled together to load the truck up for the site. Loading it in order does help unloading at site. It’s a bit like a treasure hunt really trying to find what we

I’m a lists person (which drives my other half mad) but on days like this it’s great. A list of everything to be done allows me to allocate who is doing what tasks. Based on experience and knowledge I can allocate certain tasks beforehand and set up teams when volunteers arrive. Starting the set up at 7am, with the truck unloaded and tasks already allocated we were up and running. Thankfully the radios arrived early morning so we were able to have radio comms relatively early. This does help instead of having someone run around like a lunatic passing messages on or constantly phoning people. As volunteers arrive their first and most important job for the day is build their house and then report for shift. A few of the jobs for Thursday include: • Putting up road signs • Site layout boundaries • Locating traders as they arrive • Ensuring toilets and bins are located dynamically throughout the site • Set up bars and tables/ chairs

Tina Slesser, Rally Secretary

• Erect signage • Set up access controls at gate • Marshals kitchen The list goes on and on. 13 hours later, we start the marshals brief. This is an important part of the weekend. It’s when Rick Hulse (Chairman), myself and our Security Manager have the opportunity to talk through the key points of the weekend. Including important safety and security information. I was pleasantly surprised by the number of volunteers already on site. After finishing for the day and leaving only a few jobs left for Friday morning, we can all chill out have a drink and sample some of Pauline’s delightful offerings in the ‘Ken Chaplin Kitchen’. Friday is here in the blink of an eye and

6am has me adding final touches to control and setting up for the day. As the first volunteer shifts report for duty I have already had some people cancel for various reasons. Their shifts need to be covered, so the todo list starts for later in the day, with first time volunteers who need a rundown of what’s what and various other enquiries regarding shifts, tasks and so on. Having 2 controllers is great. The control tent was split into a marshal’s desk and control desk. This ensures marshals can be signed in and out more efficiently and visitors can be attended to a lot quicker. Friday also means Julie arrives with our temporary office, managing anything and everything as required. Whilst Jane does the final bits and bobs at the main office before heading over to site on Friday afternoon.

With contractors not arriving or the wrong equipment being delivered or not working are always challenges on Friday, and as always Julie has sent a well prepared list of contacts. A couple of calls or passing information over to the relevant people sorts the problems. Put it this way, I plug a socket in to the wall but how the power gets there I haven’t a clue, so our experts in the relevant fields can deal with all that stuff. It’s always a bit daunting doing something for the first time, so touching wood that all has gone well up until gates opening gives me a bit of confidence. However, once our guests arrive anything can happen. Friday was relatively calm and really enjoyable. A huge deluge of rain at peak arrival time of 5pm meant swift action was 9

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needed. The Site Manager made a quick call to the Showground Manager, 10 minutes later some tractors appear with wood chips to keep the entrance more accessible. Eventually signing off at 8pm, I thought it best to have some food and really fancied a beer. But a quick bite and I was shattered so off to bed I went. 6am Saturday soon arrives and off we go again. It was a pleasant day, seeing everyone enjoying themselves in whatever they were doing. The Comedy Show was in full swing and the bands all turning up! Saturday afternoon gives me the opportunity to go through paperwork, checking the lost and found property to match various items and hopefully returning them to their rightful owners. Checking incident reports to ensure they are completed correctly. Looking through the logs for nonurgent follow up actions 10

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and checking for any jobs that need doing. Finally checking the rota to ensure everyone has completed their shifts. It’s also a chance to start planning for the breakdown on Sunday. Allocating volunteers to tasks. As soon as I have done that, I am kicked out of Event Control. It’s my birthday on Sunday, so the team have plotted to suspend me from duty to celebrate. Plotting and scheming between them all. With the radio detached from my body for first time since Thursday I have no other option but to eat, drink and eventually get the message that I am banned from Control. Such a wonderful team. Sunday is the start of the big break down. The reverse of Thursday, only this time everyone is shattered. Working, camping and partying takes its toll. But we need to be leaving the field by midday on Monday

and it has to be the same as it was when we arrived on Thursday. A big push from all the volunteers has everything done by 3pm. Even the truck was loaded. We have such a great team of volunteers. At this point it is usually the big task to clear litter from the campsite. But our visitors are absolutely fantastic. No matter how many times the teams go out to litter pick in the Campsite over the weekend or on Sunday they come back with very little. Having been to many rallies, it’s a rare sight to see but a pleasure. As volunteers start to leave and head off home for another year, my hard work and planning pays off to make next year easier. Marshal’s patches are given to everyone along with a preprinted marshal form. Check the details and hand it back. Yippee no more filling the form out again.

Many volunteers stay on Sunday night and we are so appreciative of their support, so what better way to celebrate a successful weekend than to have a party. Pauline and her team prepare a beautiful hot and cold buffet and the association donates drinks from the bar that cannot be returned to the supplier as a thank you for their help and support. Some chances to relive some of the ‘special’ moments over the weekend and look at what can be improved (everyone has a great idea when they are pissed) and start looking forward to next year. 92 marshal forms already in the bag for next year. Superb! As Monday dawns, the volunteers leave. The last few staying to finish off loading the truck to head back to the workshop and be unloaded and a couple of small jobs to leave a green field again. Now the weekend is over, the tent all packed away and back home. All the post

rally paperwork is completed. It takes about two weeks in the evenings and next year’s register for volunteers is updated with the forms I have back.

There aren’t many vacancies left.

Let’s start all over again. My first year as Rally Secretary has brought great satisfaction, it amazes me just how dedicated, supporting and passionate people are about the NABD. It’s such individuals that make the NABD so successful and in particular this event. It also goes without saying that the committee and Julie and Jane work their backsides off for this event and like me feel so proud at what we successfully achieve over that weekend.

To volunteer to help out at the next YBN event, send Tina an email to rallysec@thenabd.org.uk or contact the office (0844 415 4849)

I am honoured to be Rally Secretary and can’t wait for next year. On a final note. Can I remind anyone wishing to volunteer to submit their forms sooner rather than later?

Tina Slesser, Rally Secretary Pictures by Jim Graves

We can all agree that Tina did an excellent job of her first YBN event. She took the bull by the horns and really worked hard to make it a successful weekend. Even with the last minute change of fields (two weeks before the event) and a plethora of other problems, the whole thing ran smoothly. Well done Tina, the NABD are grateful and proud to have you on board. Vic 11

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Over the 26years that I have been the Chairman of The National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD), I have been coopted or cajoled onto all sorts of consultative committees, advisory groups and stakeholder symposiums, looking into issues relating to motorcycling and/or disabilities. Sadly the majority of them have proven to be littlemore than talkingshops where lots of discussions and buffet lunches have produced recommendations that are then roundly ignored as whatever government department that has assembled the group go on to do exactly whatever it was they were planning to do before they setup the consultation. Just occasionally I have been involved in consultative committees or working groups that have actually made a positive difference for motorcyclists with disabilities and in some cases for motorcyclists in general but these have been few and far between so, over recent years, I have become far more reticent about accepting invitations to join these types of activities, because my time is very precious to me and I prefer to use it on more productive endeavours. Just over two years ago I was asked to join a working group that was being brought together by Highways England to look at measures to reduce the number of motorcyclists that are being killed or seriously injured on what is known as ‘The Strategic Road Network (SRN)’ in England. The SRN comprises approximately 4,300 miles of motorways and major ‘trunk’ Aroads in England (so that’s all of the motorways and most of the dual carriageways) My initial thought was, “I’ll go along to the first meeting and if it’s just another talkingshop, I’ll buggeroff and leave them to it”. At that very first meeting there were about a dozen people present and I was immediately struck by the eclectic nature of the interested parties that were represented there. I was even more impressed when we were given an assurance from the Chair of the meeting that this would not be a pointless talking shop and that Highways England had setaside a fairly substantial budget to implement improvements that we, as a group, could identify as being relevant to the safety of motorcyclists using the SRN. Delegates to this group include people

from Highways England, the Highways Engineers, the British Motorcycle Federation (BMF), the Police, The Department for Transport (DfT), Tyresafe, the Institute of Advanced Motorcycling (IAM), The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA), the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG), the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), The Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and of course, the NABD. Such wideranging involvement is in itself very unusual in these sort of consultations and I think it fair to say that it felt pleasantly different and far more promising than any of my previous experiences. Over the past two years or so we have been involved in lots of discussion, research and development on a surprisingly wide range of issues relating to the safety of motorcyclists, some of which came from a public consultation in the first few months and some that have been raised by the delegates from their particular areas of expertise. In addition to the work of this main group several delegates, including Vic Hawkes (NABD Club Liaison) and myself from the NABD, and others from MAG, and the BMF have been involved in a subgroup with the Highways Engineers to look at improvements that can be made to infrastructure of the SRN to make it safer for motorcyclists and this has included looking at such issues as, the use of non slip coatings on manhole covers, more impactfriendly road furniture, the properties of paints used to mark the roads, the repair of potholes & other road defects and motorcyclefriendly crash barriers. So, here we are two years later and we have just had a rather gratifying presentation of the results so far. I think it fair to say that every delegate present at the latest meeting felt proud of what has been achieved thus far. Such is the scope of the measures that have already been put in place that I simply do not have space in this article to list them all, let alone explain them in great detail. Perhaps the best thing to do is to include a few of the highlights here and follow them up with a more detailed explanation of specific measures in future articles? Here is just a taster of the measures this Motorcycle Safety Working Group have been involved in developing that are now

being put into practice by Highways England… In response to potholes and decaying road surfaces: Highways England have now signed a £3.3bn deal with contractors across England to respond more quickly to resurfacing. This will cut out the old lengthy bidding processes to get the work done and the deal also involves local authorities, resulting in greater collaboration and fewer potholes. In response to concerns about polished drain covers and spray patching: Design elements specific to motorcycle safety have been passed onto maintenance and repair teams for major projects and routine inspections will now take into account the requirements of motorcyclists. In response to concerns about the dangers of impacts with road furniture: When maintenance teams are replacing and renewing signs etc. they will consider motorcycle specific features like bike guards for signage. In response to concerns about younger riders not wearing protective clothing when riding: In the Autumn of 2017 Highways England launched the “Distressed” campaign which was targeted at riders aged 1723 to show them the importance of wearing the right gear when riding. It was initially launched in the south east region and has more recently been rolled out in the south west and east. As I said, these are just a few examples of new initiatives being takenup because of the work of this Motorcycle Safety Working Group; others include measures to combat diesel spills; Providing access to & promoting the uptake of enhanced riding skill courses; Providing dedicated secure motorcycle parking bays at motorway service stations; and many more measures to make the SRN a safer and more bikerfriendly road network. It should also be remembered that this is an ongoing project. These measures, and other improvements in the future, will benefit all motorcyclists throughout the UK and your rider’s rights groups, the NABD, MAG and the BMF, are right there at the heart of it all. Rick Hulse NABD Chairman

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I bought my GT750A at the age of 21 back in 1976 and have loved it ever since. The bike has taken me abroad several times, including a three week trip to Italy visiting Rome and Pompeii. Over the 41 years I have owned the bike it has slowly been extensively modified, the bike was fitted with a Dresda swinging arm in the seventies. A modified Acyber fairing was added next and has certainly kept me dry through the years. Later progressive fork springs where added, followed by S&W air shocks with a separate compressor mounted in the ex 14

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Honda Tailpiece. I decided to attempt to build a motorcycle trip computer and by the second revision the unit was monitoring coolant, oil levels and bulb filaments, as well as speed, fuel consumption, fuel remaining and a host of other features. This computer has performed faultlessly now since the early 90’s. I even tend to use its speed display mode instead of the speedo as it is higher up on the bike and you don’t have to drop your eye much from the road level to see your actual speed. With the recent onslaught of MS, I

decided to modify the bike even further to allow me to continue to enjoy it. The bike was delivered to Casarva in Peterborough in February of 2015 to have a Trike conversion carried out on it. Casarva did an excellent job on the bike, but were unable to quote for the expansion chamber exhaust modifications as it had never been done before. In the end this proved relatively easy, by cutting the pipes just after the “U” bend and inserting three small wedge shaped cylinders in the gap and rewelding the pipes together with their new alignment to the rear chassis. The Trike features

Derek Mitchel contacted us in the hope of continuing to ride his beloved Suzuki GT750A. Complications brought on by MS meant he could no longer ride a solo machine, so was hoping to convert it to a trike and adapt it for his disability. As well as the conversion to a trike, Derek needed a Kliktronic gearchanger, twin brake lever and a reverse gearbox. Derek had owned the bike for over 40 years so was very happy we were able to give him a grant towards the cost of the needed adaptions. Here is his story Vic

carbon fibre look rear mudguards and two vertical stainless pipes at the rear to take walking sticks. In addition the rear also has a mounting to accept my Luggie mobility scooter so I could get around once at a destination. In order to be able to move the Trike easily it is fitted with a reversing gearbox, mounted between engine and rear differential. Thus there are now two drive chains on the bike. With the addition of an electric gear change solenoid and a dual front and rear brake master cylinder the transformation was complete. With the aid of a good friend the bike was

collected in July 2016. Having tried the Trike out around our local streets, I felt the steering was too stiff for me to control, due to the MS affecting my upper body strength, so an increased fork rake was felt necessary. A very good friend of mine kindly offered his friends engineering expertise in making two extension tubes to allow the forks to sit further down in the yokes. I would like to thank all at the NABD for their help in allowing this conversion to be carried out. Their grant towards the cost of the Kliktronicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gear selector and dual K lever hand controls was invaluable

Yours Sincerely Derek Mitchell For further information on Casarva bike to trike conversions visit: www.casarva.co.uk or telephone 01733 234 942. This NABD grant of ÂŁ1200 was sponsored by donations from Two Hats MCC

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Peter Burch’s K-Lever 2

Dear NABD, Thank you so much for considering and awarding me the funds to purchase a KLever 2 in double quick time I opted to go for a selffit option, so I fitted it with my Father supporting me as I was confident we could safely do it between us. I applied for the grant to enable me to get back on the road and track on a conventional geared motorcycle following an accident, during which I was unfortunately ‘Tboned’ at a junction by one vehicle and subsequently run over by a second oncoming vehicle. The accident was not my fault and although I was riding a bright green Kawasaki ZX10R and speed and weather conditions were in my favour, the driver just did not see me. The collision left me with a sub amputated left arm at the elbow (90%), numerous broken bones and a collapsed lung. Unknown at the time, I also had a contusion of my spinal cord which has severed the rootlets connecting my brachial plexus and left me with a paralysed left arm. Although my arm was 16

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reattached following several operations, it is completely paralysed from the elbow to my fingers and with limited or no function from my shoulder to the elbow. In October 2015, I took part in a riding day with The Bike Experience at Donington Park. This was my first time back on a motorcycle and it reinforced to me that I still loved riding motorbikes, even with just one functioning arm. The motorcycle was an Aprilia Mana 850cc. By November I had purchased my own Aprilia and by February I was able to ride this semiautomatic motorcycle on the road safely with small modifications to the switch gear to enable to indicate etc with my right arm.

Whilst I still ride my Aprilia and very much enjoy riding it – I’ve even done one track day on it at Silverstone, my dream was to ride a conventional geared 1 down 5 up motorcycle. I decided to purchase a Kawasaki ZX9R and with the help and extremely prompt support of the NABD, I was able to install the KLever system on the bike before the weather turned. The moment I used a clutch again was an incredible feeling. It’s a very personal part

told Shimmy TV will be doing some filming around my experience. I will of course mention the NABD!

of riding a motorbike and something I hadn’t felt since the accident. When I went for my first ride down the road it was one of the best short rides I have ever completed. There were a few teething problems concerning the fitting, mostly around the free play on left lock, probably due to the fairing. We have resolved this however by installing an Accossato engine start/stop

switch replacing the standard Kawasaki starter and kill switch. This enabled us to move the K lever further along the bars, thus giving me space for the dual lever when on full left lock.

As I am sure you can see, your support really has given me my life back on two wheels. I can honestly still say I am a biker, a biker that goes out in all conditions and completes track days. Without your support I definitely will not have had this massive sense of pride, enjoyment and that buzz factor in my life that only bikers can appreciate. Thank you once again for your support; it is very much appreciated. Yours faithfully, Peter Burch

I have completed an excellent full day on track at Silverstone with No Limits Track days and in four weeks’ time I am flying out to Portimao for three days on track, again with No Limits. I won this competition on Facebook with a partnership between the Air Ambulance, Shimmy TV and No Limits and I have been

For further information on the Kliktronic Klever 2 visit: www.kliktronic.co.uk or telephone 01359 242 100. This NABD grant of £610.00 was sponsored by donations from the Classic Racing Motorcycle Club Ltd 17

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In September 1980 I was involved in a road traffic accident whilst touring Sweden on my beloved Suzuki GS 1000E. I had never so much as broken a finger before that point but knew it was fairly serious at once. I remember standing up after the impact and my right arm seemed to be hanging in an unusual manner. I had broken it in 2 places the shattered upper end of my humorous cutting through my artery. These injuries were dealt with very ably by the staff at Vastervik and Linkoping hospitals. But the most longlasting injury was a total Brachial Plexus Injury which left me with no use at all in my right arm. It seemed then that my motorcycling career was at an end so I decided to concentrate on the things I could do for fun, namely shooting and fishing. I kept an interest in bikes but apart from a few pillion rides was not actively involved. Many years later I heard about the NABD and thought maybe I could get a trike converted as I had owned a quad bike previously. Then reading copies of Open

House I became aware of people in a similar predicament riding bikes that had been adapted with help from the NABD. So now I am the proud owner of a Yamaha FJR 1300 AS which has been converted to left hand throttle and front brake with help of a grant from the NABD. I spoke to a number of companies but from word one was very impressed by the guys at Appleyard Motorcycles in Keighley, they have been very helpful and patient throughout the process and have given me a bike that is perfectly suited to me and have done this using only standard parts. Words cannot express my gratitude to both the NABD and the crew at Appleyard, especially Malcolm and Wayne. It has been a long road , but now I am looking forward to the coming year and a resumption of my motorcycling. There is a lot to catch up on and a list of places to visit that is a mile long but due to help from the NABD and Appleyards it is now

possible to get back on a bike and enjoy all that it brings. I intend going to the Hojrock festival in Sweden this July (a three day bike rally and rock festival in Vastervik) if possible. To all those who have been long standing members of the NABD I offer my heartfelt thanks, in a world ruled by financial cutbacks and austerity your subs and donations bring joy to those lucky enough to be awarded a grant. If you come across a onearmed bloke grinning like a Cheshire cat it may well be me. Once again thanks to all involved. John Jansson Davison. For further information on Colin Appleyard visit: www.colinappleyard.com This NABD grant of £750 was sponsored by donations from Oddballs MCC and Greedy Pigs MCC

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I have been riding motorbikes all my working life and I am now 65 years old. I had an accident at work a few years ago, injuring my back. On investigation I was told I had a prolapsed disc L4/5 and they would need to take a disc out. I was then told I would need a further operation later on for the removal of another disk, so movement would be very limited. I went for a second opinion and was told an operation was a waste of time as the vertebrae in my back were deteriorating and I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis and sciatica in both legs. I thought my riding days were over. I also had other major health issues which needed sorting but this was the final blow and as I do not drive a car, I became housebound and reliant on taxis. I have always fancied riding a trike but never got around to it as I was previously very comfortable on two wheels and enjoyed the freedom that a motorcycle gives you. Also funds and having to retire early due to the accident was an issue. I kept buying bike magazines and came across a magazine called ‘Trike’ which featured several disabled bikers riding trikes. I thought would investigate further, I had been a member of the NABD for a while but never thought I would need their support. I looked online for a trike within my price range, as I thought I could not afford to have a custom one made. After going to see a number of trikes I realised that many were too big and heavy or did not meet the requirements imposed by my disability. I then decided to try one of the main trike builders ‘Trike Design’ in Caerphilly, South Wales, as I had read a few articles about them and seen some trikes they had built. Also a few friends said they came highly recommended. As I live in Milton Keynes, it was not just around the corner so I persuaded my son to take me to Caerphilly, I had already been in contact with Trike Design and both Hank and Mandy were extremely friendly and helpful. Hank said he had a couple of trikes ready for sale and I was welcomed to come and see them. In the meantime, they had already advertised a couple of trikes on eBay, one of which I was very interested in. It was a Yamaha Dragstar 650, it was gettingon in age but still a good bike, so I thought it would be just right for me. It had already been 20

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converted into a trike by Trike Design so I paid a small deposit just to ensure it would be there when we arrived. The Yamaha Dragstar trike was just the right size and I though a 650 was big enough as I had not been riding for a few years. Although I did not realise how different it was to a solo bike to ride. It took quite a while to learn how to ride the trike, it had two wheels at the back so was a lot wider and also the steering was totally different to a solo bike. After a lengthy discussion with Hank and a couple of the lads I decided to buy the Yamaha 650 trike. They measured me up for the extra adaptions I needed, a stronger support for my back, extra support for my feet due to the sciatica and weaker knees and a separate step to

help me get on and off the trike. I also decided would need to improve the steering but the biggest problem was this trike did not have a reverse gear, so everything came to a fullstop. I did not think I could afford all the necessary changes, then Hank suggested that I tried the NABD to ask for a grant. I never thought I would be eligible for a grant but I decided to give it a try. I sent my application to the NABD through Trike Design. When the grant confirmation letter from the NABD arrived allocating me £1400.00, I emailed a copy of the letter over to Hank so work could start. The total cost of adaptations finally came to double the amount allocated from the NABD, so Hank from Trike Design also helped with the finance, which was very appreciated.

Trike Design delivered the trike to Milton Keynes for free. So now I am back on the road, although initially still learning to ride it by spending a lot of time in various large carparks and using the space in safety. It is strange riding a trike, realising that you have two wheels at the back; it must be like pulling a trailer behind a car for the first time. You have to remember you don’t have to place your feet down on the ground anymore because the trike won’t fall over when you stop. Perhaps the biggest shock of all is the steering. When you ride a bike it’s easy to control, as you move the bike moves with you, but a trike has to be pushed and pulled to go where you want. It was a major learning curve but very enjoyable as I did not think I would ever be riding again, and it’s all down to the NABD and

Trike Design and of course to the wife who provided much of the funding to buy the trike. Without the support from the NABD I would never had got my freedom back. Thank you.

the NABD, every biker should become members of the NABD and they should encourage others to join and clubs to affiliate, you never know when you might need their help and support; an excellent organisation. Many thanks

As a disabled person I qualified for a roadtax exemption but first had to change the tax status of the trike for disabled use at the post office, it was a bit of a hassle but worth it. Next problem was getting insurance again what a hassle, some wanted majormoney but again with the help of Trike Design I got the insurance sortedout at a fair price.

Tony Williams For further information on Trike Design Ltd and Easy Steer yokes, see: www.trikedesign.co.uk or telephone 02920 880885. Tony Williams is an exserviceman and this NABD grant of £1,400.00 was sponsored by donations from RAF Brize Norton and Sanzaru MCC.

Thank you to the Trike Design team and 21

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After a number of years following motorcycle races and admiring different people’s trikes, I bit the bullet and bought my own Suzuki trike. When I first saw her, I knew this was the trike for me, I was so proud of her. I even named her Black Bessy. Then on the 9th September 2013 I suffered a stroke. This affected my memory and has left me with a number of different problems. I became nervous of taking Black Bessy out, she felt too hard 22

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to handle and a lot of work to just go for a little road trip. Any dry day I would look out and wish I could take my trike out. However I knew I just wasn’t fit enough to pull her out. After a number of years sitting in the garage, only being started every few weeks, I decided to go and see if there was any funding or help I could get to put a reverse gear on her. While on holidays on the Isle of Mann at

the Manx grand prix, we visited Peter Murray’s bike museum and after explaining my problems to him he told me about the NABD and told me to join. When we came back home, I joined and received my membership and regular Open House magazines. Through reading all the different stories of adaptations, I was inspired to go for it and get out on the road again. In July, I went to the Roaring Meg Custom Bike Show on Derry’s walls and was

talking to Alison on her NABD stand. She told me what could be available and how to go about applying for the grant. Once I received my adaptation application pack, I contacted Alison again and Derek, her husband from Diamond Trikes. I explained my story to them. Derek then asked for me to bring my trike to his garage to have a look. After having a look he agreed to do my adaptations. I was over the moon when my grant for a reverse gear kit was approved. I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait.

We left the trike with him, being kept up to date by Alison of the progress.

My dream has come through once again. Thanks again, Kathleen Beggan.

Derek then rang and told us the job was completed. When we arrived, we saw what a brilliant job had been done. I was able to drive her home with no problems at all. Now, I am able to enjoy my faithful Black Bessy again. I cannot thank the NABD, Alison and Derek from Diamond Trikes enough.

For further information on Diamond Trikes visit: www.diamondtrikes.co.uk or telephone 02838852635 from the UK or 04838852635 from ROI. This NABD grant of ÂŁ620.00 was sponsored by donations from Belfast Custom Bike Show and N.I. Bikers & Trikers club 23

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Friday 10th June 2017. Just another day for most, however from several far flung locations across the UK including St Helens, Orrell, Flint and Cornwall, a group of (mostly) intrepid (mostly) Widows Sons gathered together at the entrance to Holyhead ferry terminal – destination Northern Ireland. The weather had been reasonably kind up to now, and as the intrepid two wheeled explorers boarded the boat their spirits were high. Apart from some rather high winds midway across, the crossing was impeccable – not a drop of Guinness was spilt. On leaving the impressive bulk of the ferry, next stop was the garage on the outskirts of Dublin docks, where the tour guides awaited, namely Derek & Tim, what could possibly go wrong with these 2 esteemed brothers at the front and back of the convey? Actually at this point, nothing, and we happily made our merry way North with an occasional pit stop for food, pop (brown lemonade?) and bodily functions which need not be gone into here. The crossing to Norn Iron was soon upon 24

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us, indeed the change was quite noticeable due to the fact that all the signs became in ‘MPH’. First scheduled stop was Tandragee and a ride around the course, which looked more like a farmer’s private driveway than a road racecourse. The start / finish was an impressively spray painted grid on the somewhat uneven tarmac, nevertheless the feeling of excitement prevailed as we formed up and gunned our engines for a tour of the track. Following an uneventful but extremely satisfying lap of the track, we headed off for our digs for the night, Diamond Memorial Hall. Once there, we unpacked and headed off inside to claim our sleeping spaces for the night. Soon followed by some flag erecting of our own; Northwest Chapter WSMBA had arrived. After consuming a splendid meal prepared by the present Mrs Winter and her merry band of helpers, RJ Woolsey gave a talk about the Tandragee 100 course together with displaying his race bike complete with a seat that was like sitting on a piece of 4 x 2 plank. The smell from the aviation fuel in the tank was quite hypnotic.

From there, the night’s events descended into the usual chaos which ensues when certain members of the NWC meet up with their Irish Brethren, needless to say much alcohol was imbibed resulting in one cling film related incident, one ambulance and one hospital visit which may or may not have been related to the aforementioned cling film / boozing. A splendid breakfast awaited us at the start of day 2, again courtesy of the female contingent, after which the day’s riding commenced. The first and unscheduled stop was in the middle of nowhere, as our esteemed guide and all round stout fellow Derek Winter got lost and had to consult with several Satellite Navigational devices. However, all was well and at the restart we progressed on to Cookstown, a lap of the circuit and a fascinating talk in The Braeside Inn given by Kenny Loughlin. His insight into the history of the race was fascinating and very informative. Once again, the track itself would not have disgraced the set of Emmerdale and was more suited to herding cattle to the milking shed, the thought of covering it at speeds in excess of 100mph was very daunting.

Calling the brethren to order after the latest round of brews, clog emptying and fags, the merry band departed for Ballymoney. Calling in at Joey Dunlop’s bar before converging in the Royal British Legion for a splendid buffet lunch, a shandy and another outstanding talk about the Northwest 200 history and course ably presented by the Clerk of the course. His depth of knowledge was amazing, as was his ability to answer the questions which abounded from the gathered brethren. The last scheduled stop of the day was the start / finish point for the Northwest 200 race. On departing for the tour of the 8 and a bit mile circuit, we were held up for some ten minutes or so by the local school open day finishing. The resultant crowds of happy kids and almost happy parents all waved as they crossed the road in front of us, including the pistol bearing bicycle riding PC. The lap was over all too soon and we bade farewell to Portrush and headed back south towards Portadown and the grandness of the Memorial Hall digs. With refreshments consumed to rid the oral cavities of the road dust, several of us

headed to the Dan Winter’s House for a look around and a brilliant history talk by Mrs Winter, Matriarch of the Clan Winter of The Diamond. On returning to HQ, a magnificent BBQ ensued, again prepared by Alison & Jill (weekend cooks, barmaids and bottle washers) and smoothed along by several libations. A raffle took place with stacks of splendid prizes. Entertainment for the evening was provided by a couple of floppy haired muppets who actually turned out to be rather good, despite being related to Alison Winter. Beds were sought at the closing of the evenings high jinx and the final reveller slipped into slumber.

well deserved coffee & biscuits. This being over all too soon, we made our way back to the boat at Dublin Port and boarded our waterborne beast ready to be ferried back home.

Sunday morning came all too soon for the previous night’s party animals, but we were soon revived by another feast of breakfast goodies, tea & coffee. Fond farewells were exchanged with the indigenous population and the weary visitors waved as they started out for Dublin Port, via the Grand Lodge of Ireland Masonic Building for a nosey around. On arrival at the hall, we were met by our own personal tour guide, Keith, a very personable and knowledgeable chap who gave us a very comprehensive tour followed by some

As with all Masonic adventures there was monies raised for charity. As Derek and Alison Winter are fervent supporters of the NABD and the Widows Sons are the Masonic Biker Association, the match was made.

As the sun set in the West, we waved goodbye from the deck of the surprisingly speedy lump of metal and amid strains of ‘Danny Boy’ and ‘see you next year’ we sadly bid farewell to the awesome Emerald Isle. A thoroughly enjoyable weekend had come to an end, but it will be repeated for sure, soon.

The total raised for the NABD from the weekend was £900. Write up by Baxi Northwest Chapter WSMBA

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A ROUGH GUIDE TO ADA This is the latest up-date of our “Rough Guide to Adaptions”. Due to the limitations of the available space in the the Open House magazine we can not go into minute detail of each and every option, but hopefully this article will give a fairly good overview of the most commonly available options for the adaption of most motorcycles and trikes to suit the needs of riders with disabilities. Where possible we have included the web-site addresses or other contact details of manufacturers. More comprehensive details are available on www.nabd.org.uk or from the NABD office: office@thenabd.org.uk Right Leg: (Amputation, reduced/restricted strength/mobility in the knee or the ankle joints): This is usually a simple matter of transferring the rear brake pedal to a handlebar-mounted lever. This can take the form of a thumb operated lever or “twin” levers. Another method of adapting the rear brake system is to utilise a mechanical linkage or hydraulic extension to transfer the brake pedal to the left-hand side of the machine. This can be sited either beside the gear pedal or directly behind it for heel operation. 1. Twin levers 2. Thumb brake 3. Crossover to the left side of the motorcycle. For any type of leg disability you may find it difficult to operate the side stand. This can usually be cured with the simple addition of a hand operated actuating lever or moving the stand to the right side of the machine.

West Twin-Hydraulic Lever Unit www.pfmbrakes.com

Left Leg: (Amputation, reduced / restricted strength / mobility in the knee or the ankle joints): The easiest method would be to use an electronic gear change system 24 26

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Kliktronic Push-Button Gearchange Kit www.kliktronic.co.uk

such as the Kliktronic push button gear-changer www.kliktronic.co.uk. This unit works by pushing two buttons on the handlebars that operate an electronic actuator connected to the gear pedal. The Kliktronic gear-changer is supplied as a complete, easy to fit kit, which can be used on all styles of motorcycle. Another method is to use a cross over linkage to the right side of the motorcycle, mounting the gear pedal either beside or in-front of the rear brake pedal. 1. Electronic push button gear-changer (to fit 1” and 7/8” bars) (“on-bar” or “under-bar” push-buttons) 2. “Crossover” to the right side of the motorcycle Right or Left Leg: For any type of leg disability you may find it difficult to operate the side stand. This can usually be cured with the simple addition of a hand operated lever/linkage or moving the stand to the opposite side of the machine. The kliktronic switches, the twin levers and the thumbrake are all available in 1” or 7/8” bar sizes. Right Arm: (Amputation, Brachial Plexus Injury, reduced strength/ mobility in hands or fingers or elbow & shoulder joints): This is usually a simple matter of transferring the throttle and front brake lever to the left handlebar. The front brake caliper can then be operated by a “twin lever” in tandem with the clutch lever (see www.klever2.com and/or www.pfmbrakes.com for twin lever kits) or by fitting a thumb operated lever below the left handlebar. See www.hudsonperformance.co.uk for thumb operated brakes. Some switchgear may require adapting to suit left hand operation.

(www.bitzforbikes.co.uk) If the disability of the rider just involves difficulty with operating a twist grip throttle (i.e. fused or stiff wrist, tendonitis etc) the only requirement may be the use of a thumb-operated throttle (as used on quads). Where it is a matter of reduced mobility or amputation of fingers or wrist problems it may be that a thumb operated brake lever will solve the problem. A further, though less common option would be to operate the front brake with a left foot pedal mounted behind the gear pedal for heel operation. 1. Left-hand throttle 2. Right-hand thumb throttle 3. Left-hand thumb brake 4. Left-hand twin levers 5. Left-heel brake Left Arm: (Amputation, Brachial Plexus Injury, reduced strength/ mobility in hands or fingers or elbow & shoulder joints): In most cases this is a simple matter of adapting the clutch operating lever and some minor modification to the switchgear on the left handlebar. There are several ways to adapt the clutch lever depending on the severity of the individual’s disability. In the case of total loss of/or loss of use of the left hand, the clutch lever must be re-sited elsewhere.

Hudson Performance 'Handlebar Mounted' Thumbrake www.hudsonperformance.co.uk

Most commonly this is a simple matter of transferring the lever to the right handle bar using “twin levers” for front brake and clutch (see www.klever2.com and/or www.pfmbrakes.com for twin lever kits) or by fitting a thumb operated lever below the right handlebar to operate the front brake and using the original front brake lever for the clutch. See www.hudsonperformance.co.uk for thumb operated brakes. In the case of reduced mobility or strength in the left hand, further

APTIONS BY RICK HULSE options would be; An hydraulic to cable conversion kit for smaller bikes makes the use of cable operated clutches much lighter. For a limited range of motorcycles, an automatic clutch such as the Rekluse Z-Clutch www.rekluse.co.uk may be available. Recently some of the major motorcycle manufacturers have produced large capacity motorcycles that are available with automatic transmission, thereby doing away with the clutch altogether. The Yamaha FJR1300AS has an automatic transmission as does the Honda DN01 the Honda CTX700 and the Honda VFR1200DCT. 1. Right hand twin levers 2. Automatic Clutch 3. Thumbrake & Clutch

Kliktronic K-Lever2 Universal Twin-Lever (for operating two cable systems) www.klever2.com

the individual rider. Where this is not possible, some second hand machines can sometimes be modified to suit the needs of a disabled rider (i.e. full hand controls, stirrups, foot-plates, seating styles, back support, automatic transmission, wheelchair carriers, etc). www.trikeshop.co.uk and/or www.trikedesign.co.uk and/or www.boomtrikes.co.uk and/or www.rewacotrikesuk.co.uk There are also “drop down” stabiliser kits www.adaptivemotorcycles.c om and www.koeltgen.de/konta kt.html for solo motorcycles on the market but as yet we have not been able to fully test their viability for road use by disabled riders.

Kliktronic K-Lever2 Universal Twin-Lever (for operating two hydraulic lines) www.klever2.com

1. Bike and sidecar 2. Trike 3. Stabilisers (for solo bikes) Reverse Gear for trikes:

Hudson Performance 'Fork Mounted' Thumbrake www.hudsonperformance.co.uk

Right or Left Arm: With all adaptions to suit riders with a hand or arm disability we strongly recommend the fitting of a high quality steering damper. When necessary a Velcro glove to handlebar grip can be used to help keep the affected hand on the handlebar & in some cases for amputees, prosthetics can be specially adapted to enable some handlebar use. However we must stress the importance of never being too firmly connected to a solo motorcycle. If you do have a spill while riding you need to be able to separate from the machine very easily rather than be dragged along by it into what could prove to be a more dangerous situation. Both the twin levers and thumb brake are available in 1” or 7/8” bar sizes.

Kliktronic K-Lever2 Universal Twin-Lever (for operating one hydraulic line & one cable system) www.klever2.com

Wheelchair Users & Balance problems: (Bilateral amputation, paraplegia, MS, reduced mobility/strength in legs, balance problems, etc): With these types of disability one obvious issue is that of stability, which usually means the addition of a “third road wheel” whether this is in the form of a bike and sidecar combo or a trike. In the case of bike and sidecar combos sometimes it is possible to utilise standard outfits when the bike has been converted to “full hand controls”. But there are also some manufacturers who manufacture specialised or adapted sidecar outfits that are specifically designed to suit independent use by wheelchair users users such as Motopodd Ltd www.motopodd.com and Unit Sidecars Ltd www.unitsidecars.co.uk In the case of trikes it is always preferable to have a trike fully manufactured specifically to suit

The vast majority of motorcycles do not feature a reversing facility. However, for many people with disabilities, a reversing facility is essential when a motorcycle has been converted to a trike. There are several methods of achieving this; perhaps the oldest method was to incorporate an electric reversing motor, but this has generally proven to be inefficient and often a serious strain on the battery. More recently, purpose built reversing differentials and in-line reversing gearboxes have emerged onto the market from the motor racing scene. Companies like Quaife Engineering Ltd www.quaife.co.uk and Elite Racing Transmissions Ltd www.eliteracing transmissions.com produce in-line reversing boxes for shaft-driven vehicles and reversing differentials for chain, belt or shaft driven vehicles. NB. This guide is not intended as an exhaustive catalogue of the adaptions available for bikes and trikes. It is meant as a brief guide featuring the most popular solutions to the most common problems faced by many riders with disabilities when considering adapting machines. There are always other options available and we at the NABD are constantly working with some highly skilled engineers to develop new alternatives and improvements to existing kits. 25 27

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100% Biker Magazine Now with added NABD support! 100% Biker is THE UK grass roots custom bike lifestyle magazine - the one aimed squarely at and for real bikers, not bottomless pocket wannabes who've watched far too much Discovery Channel. They are also more than slightly aware of the good work done by the NABD over the years getting bikers back on the road after particularly traumatic episodes in their lives. So, with that in mind, 100% Biker is offering NABD members a very special subscription deal. Take out a subscription to 100% Biker magazine at any NABD event, or by visiting www.jazzpublishing.co.uk/nabd and they will donate £5 straight back to the NABD. That means that, not only will you be guaranteed of getting the best biker magazine in the country through your door every month, but you'll also be helping your favourite charity at no extra cost to yourself - it's a win-win situation! Thanks - Dave Gamble

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR BIKERS WITH A DISABILITY Reg. Charity No. 1040907 (SC039897 in Scotland) Are you a disabled person who wants to learn to ride a motorcycle? Then join the NABD and take advantage of our unique

LEARNER LOANER SCHEME This could enable you to complete a CBT course and both modules of the practical test with the loan of a suitably adapted 125cc motorcycle for up to 3 months. (Subject to conditions). A small number of adapted bikes are available specifically for the use of disabled riders (subject to a £150.00 service charge). We will take care of delivery and collection, so you can concentrate on passing your test. NABD “Learner Loaners” are loaned to NABD members specifically for the purpose of training & tests and for no other purpose. Users must provide a copy of a fully comprehensive insurance policy and provisional license prior to delivery.

For further details, please contact: Gordon Hooper (Learner Loaners) NABD, Unit 20, The Bridgewater Centre, Robson Avenue, Urmston, Manchester, M41 7TE. Tel: 0844 415 4849

Email: office@thenabd.org.uk

Web Address: nabd.org.uk

Tel: 07761 642107 or Email: loaners@thenabd.org.uk 28

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• • • • • • • • • • • • •

AFFILIATED CLUBS

Premium Affiliation Federation of Sidecar Clubs G B MCC Greenman MCC Halfway Heroes MCC Harley Davidson Club Somerset Harley Davidson Riders of GB Moto Guzzi Club GB Rocker Box MCC Royal Enfield Owners Club Tiger MCC VRA UK Standard Affiliation 69 MCC Dover Barrel Bikers MCC Beartown Bikers Beerhounds MCC Beermonsters MCC Bikers Inc MCC Bitter & Twisted MCC Blue Knights England XIV BMW Club UK Sidecar Register Boston Motorcycle Riders Association Bridge Rats MCC Bristol & Avon Roadrunners MCC Burgess Hill & District MCC

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Burnley & District MCC CAT MCC Cerberus MCC Cernunnos MCC CMA (Bristol Branch) CMA (N.Lincs & East Yorks Branch) CMA (North Cheshire Branch) CMA (West Yorkshire Branch) Cripple Club Bath Crown Crazy Cruisers MCC Dark Squadron Defunct MCC Deva Legion HOG Doggs Bollocks MCC Dunedin HOG Eye Of RA MCC Fellowship of UK Trikers Gawsworth Jesters Get Off Your Butts MCC Golden Phoenix MCC Goldwing Owners Club of GB Harwich MCC Hedingham Sidecar Owners Club Hednesford MCC Highland Classic Motorcycle Club Hillbillies MCC Hwicce MCC International Laverda Owners Club

• Jawa CZ Owners Club Of GB & Erie • Kaos Krew MCC • Knights of Antioch MM • Knuckle Eddz MCC • Meriden TOMCC • Millennium 2000 BC • Minehoff MCC • Moddey Dhoo Mcc • Morini Riders Club • Motorbike Alliance • MT Heads MCC • National Youthbike • N.I. Bikers & Trikers Club • Norsemen MCC Sussex • North Devon British Motorcycle Owners Club • NOTAS • Oakley MCC • Oddballs MCC • Open Air Riders • Pennine Wings GMR • Pinkertons MCC • Police Motorcycle Club N.Ireland • Pyeratz MCC • Quay Vipers MCC • Riders Association of Triumph – Lincolnshire • Robbers Dogs • Rusty Sprocket MCC • Saddle Tramps Motorcycle Club

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Salutation MCC SANZARU N.F.A. Sewer Rats Silsden Shite Shags Geordieland Sillybuggeryness Rally Club Six Feet Under MCC Solent MCC Southport Cruisers Tees Riders MCC Thames Vale Vultures The A59 ers The Inner Circle The Royal British Legion Riders Branch Tribe MCC (Ayreshire) Triumph Owners (Berkshire) Unwanted MCC Van Dieman MCC Vespa Club of Britain Vintage Motor Scooter Club Virago Star Owners Club VRCC-UK West Sussex Triumph Owners Club Wild Geese MCC Witch Haven MCC Wolds Bikers Wozwolf RC York Advanced MC Zx9r.net

NABD OPEN HOUSE

ISSUE 93

NABD

MERCHANDISE

SWEATSHIRT

T SHIRT

Black with White Standard Logo and Sleeve Print Members price inc p&p £18.00 Non Mem price inc p&p £20.00 Sizes M/L/XL - XXL (add £2)

Black with White Standard Logo Members price inc p&p £11.00 Non Mem price inc p&p £13.00 Sizes M/L/XL/XXL

FLEECE

Black with Silver Celtic Logo Members price inc p&p £24.00 Non Mem price inc p&p £25.00 Sizes available: L/XL/XXL

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ISSUE 93

PADDED JACKET

Embroidered Black with Yellow Standard Logo Members price inc p&p £50.00 Non Mem price inc p&p £53.00 Sizes S/M/L/XL/XXL

HOODED SWEATSHIRT

Black with White Standard Logo Members price inc p&p £19.00 Non Mem price inc p&p £21.00 Sizes M/L/XL - XXL (add £2)

BASEBALL CAP

Embroidered Black with Yellow Razor Logo Members price inc p&p £10.00 Non Mem price inc p&p £11.00

SUPPORTERS PATCH

Embroidered Red with Black Standard Logo Price inc p&p £3.50

ENAMEL PIN BADGE

Black with Gold Standard Logo Price inc p&p £3.00

DISABLED BIKER PATCH

Embroidered Black on Yellow Price inc p&p £3.50

BLUE BADGE HOLDER

Unique design, only available sfrom the NABD Price inc p&P £38.00

You can buy NABD merchandise via the web site www.nabd.org.uk* (click on NABD Shop) or by credit/debit card payment over the telephone 0844 415 4849* or by post from: NABD, Unit 20, The Bridgewater Centre, Robson Avenue, Manchester M41 7TE Cheques should be made payable to NABD * Minimum order value of £5.00 when ordering by phone or internet. 31

NABD OPEN HOUSE

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NABD PATRONS SIR BILLY CONNOLLY CBE

Comedian and bike/trike rider

Member of the house of lords and biker (pictured here with his son Gus)

DAVID HOLDING

MARK Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SHEA

Para-Olympic gold medallist

SUZI PERRY

Superbike and supermoto presenter for the BBC (pictured here with fast bloke Eddie Irvine)

MIK SCARLET TV presenter and DJ

LORD ROTHERWICK

Herpetologist, author, TV presenter and biker

GARY HAVELOCK

Champion speedway rider

SAMMY MILLER MBE

Motorcycling legend

NABD OPEN HOUSE

ISSUE 93

NEIL HODGSON

World superbike champion

STEVIE SIMPSON

(One Bloke, One Mandolin) Biker, Troubadour, Singer/Songwriter

NABD NATIONAL COMMITTEE Chairman Vice Chairman Treasurer National Secretary Repâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Liaison PR/Information Webmaster Affiliated Clubs Liaison Learner/Loaners National Stall Manager National Stall Assistant Research Fundraising Coordinator

Rick Hulse Ian Taylor John Byrne Tina Slesser Ross Lockett / Vic Hawkes John Lysons Simon Freedman Vic Hawkes Gordon Hooper Phil Morris Alma Caviaciuti Derek Durham Ross Lockett

National non-committee administrative positions: Memberships Mark Mayo Rally Secretary Tina Slesser Arbitrator Pauline Chaplin Archivist Gren Russell Projects Co-ordinator Stuart Gregory Open House Editor

Vic Hawkes

NABD Staff Office Manager Office Admin Assistant

Julie Williams Jane Singleton

NABD REPRESENTATIVES ENGLAND Ashton Under Lyne - Tameside Kel Power 07715 350 706 kelpower.rep@thenabd.org.uk Derby Dave Jackson 07487 888622 Dorchester Ashley Tandy 07942 588 612 ashleytandy.rep@thenabd.org.uk Horncastle - Lincolnshire Steve Ayres 07843 137979 steveayres.rep@thenabd.org.uk London - E11 Steve Wilton 07917 127414 stevewilton.rep@thenabd.org.uk Loughborough - Leicestershire Grayham Johnson 07729 638886 jhnsngrhm@yahoo.co.uk Manchester Brian Wadsworth 07792 089 619 brianwadsworth.rep@thenabd.org.uk Poole - Dorset Helene Gallimore 07824772167 helenegallimore.rep@thenabd.org.uk

Somerset Andy Arnott andyarnott.rep@thenabd.org.uk Southport - Merseyside Christopher Jones 07958 189 479 christopherjones.rep@thenabd.org.uk

NORTHERN IRELAND Portadown (Co Armagh) Alison Winter 07916 142 618 alisonwinter.rep@thenabd.org.uk

St Ives - Cornwall Sean Farrell 07936 153 390 seanfarrell.rep@thenabd.org.uk

WALES

Staffordshire Sue Bocking 07970 429 949 suebocking.rep@thenabd.org.uk

Chirk - Clwyd Tev Thomas 07584 449483 tevthomas.rep@thenabd.org.uk

Uttoxeter - Staffordshire Vic Hawkes 07422 512 635 vichawkes.rep@thenabd.org.uk

Mid Glamorgan Ian Heyes iianheyes.rep@thenabd.org.uk

Warrington Eddie Hancock 07872 929 869 eddiehancock.rep@thenabd.org.uk Warminster - Wiltshire Phillip Arbon philiparbon.rep@thenabd.org.uk

SCOTLAND Edinburgh Alan Russell 01316 237 124 alanrussell.rep@thenabd.org.uk

Wellingborough - Northamptonshire Ross Lockett 07812 657 680 rosslockett.rep@thenabd.org.uk Dave Haswell 07445 346151

Sheffield - South Yorkshire Stuart Gregory 07974 150 957 stuartgregory.rep@thenabd.org.uk

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GOLD AFFILIATED BUSINESSES Belonga Mick Mick Manchester, Les Brouillons, Bethines, 86310, France Tel: 07970 371063 Email: mickmanchester@email.fr

Bucklemania Mike Gregory, 210 Wessex Court, De-Havilland Way, Stanwell, Staines-On-Thames, Middlesex. TW19 7JL Tel: 07568 703387 Email: mikebuckham0416@gmail.com

Casarva Ltd Steve Read, 16 Axis Park, Manasty Road, Orton, Southgate, Peterborough. PE2 6UP Tel: 01733 234942 Email: info@casarva.co.uk www.casarva.co.uk Trike Manufacturers, Trike Kits, Conversions and Adaptations

Datum Motorcycle Trikes Ltd Tony Clack, Unit 2A Merrivale Road, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 1DU Tel: 01837 53658 or 07590 299850 Email: datummotorcycletrikes@gmail.com www.datummct.com

Diamond Trikes Derek Winter, 38 Grange Road, Portadown, Co Armagh, BT62 4JD Tel: 028 388 52635xx www.diamondtrikes.co.uk

Mulderrigs (Solicitors) Paul Mulderrig, 72 Bank Street, Rawtenstall, BB4 8EG Tel: 0800 052 3693 www.mulderrigs.co.uk Law Society’s Personal Injury Panel. Association of Personal Injury Lawyers.

PHAB Janine Williams, Summit House, 50 Wandle Road, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 1DF Tel: 020 8667 9443 Email: info@phab.org.uk www.phab.org.uk

Principal Insurance Ltd Matt Byrne, Dalton House, Dane Road, Sale, Manchester, M33 7AR Tel: 0161 972 2597 or 0808 178 0181 Email: xinfo@principalinsurance.co.uk www.principalinsurance.co.uk

Trike Design LTD Hank, Unit 2A, Ponty Gwindy Industrial Estate, Caerphilly, CF83 3HU Tel: 02920 880885 www.trike-design.co.uk Trike Builders, Custom & Adaption Engineers

Trikes UK Ltd White Bear Marina, Park Road, Adlington, Chorley, PR7 4HZ Tel: 01257 806045 Mob: 07866549884 www.boom-trikes.co.uk Trike Builders, Custom and Adaption Engineers

Trikeshop Bev Meredith, Unit 10, Waterside Business Park, Lamby Way, Rumney, Cardiff, CF3 2ET Tel: 02920 369420 Email: info@trikeshop.co.uk www.trikeshop.co.uk Trike Manufacturers, Trike Kits, Conversions and Adaptations

SILVER AFFILIATED BUSINESSES Kliktronic LTD Bob / Keith, Unit 2, Station Road Industrial Estate, Elmswell, Suffolk, IP31 3PD Tel: 01359 242100 www.kliktronic.co.uk Electronic Gear-Changers, Push-Button Side Stands etc.

TBPI Group (Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injury Group) Neil Finney, 13 Wemeth Road, Glossop, SK13 6LZ Tel: 07976 317529 www.tbpi-group.org

NSV Caravans Ltd G. Humphries, Unit 4 Westmans Ind Est, Love Lane, Burnham On Sea. TA8 1EY Tel: 07929 767690 Email: nsvcaravans@btconnect.com www.nsvcaravans.co.uk Specialist used Motorhome dealer based in Somerset.

BRONZE AFFILIATED BUSINESSES Belfast DJ’s Don Anderson, 18 Horn Walk, Belfast, BT11 9NG Tel: 02890 289021 or 07790 296461 Email: anderson_don@hotmail.com www.nidjs.com

THE BIKER GUIDE Website for bikers Email: info@thebikerguide.co.uk www.thebikerguide.co.uk

Custom Paints Ltd Saj Khan, 3 Norfolk Bridge Court, Warren Street, Sheffiled, S4 7WT Tel: 01142 752187 Email: saj@custompaints.com www.custompaints.com

The DeJaVu Roadshow Steven Osborne, 382 Bourne Road, Spalding, Lincolnshire, PE11 3LL Tel: 01775 711874 Email: dejavuroadshow@hotmail.co.uk www.dejavuroadshow.co.uk

Fatbob Crafts Tony Fulton, 58 Roman Way, Godmanchester, Cambs. PE29 2RW Tel: 07495 901012 Email: enquiries@fatbobcrafts.co.uk www.fatbobcrafts.co.uk

Foxylady Reborn Diane Vane, Sunnyside Cottage, Metherinham Lane, Dunston, Lincolnshire, LN4 2EU Tel: 07541 502197 Email: foxylady1960@live.com www.foxyhatsncrafts.co.uk

J. Byrne Ltd 65 Old Road, Ashton Under Lyne, Lancashire, OL6 9DH Tel: 0161 344 1175 www.jbyrnelimited.co.uk

Karmenz Bike Training Karl Menzel, Billing Garden Village, The Causeway, Northampton. NN3 9EX Tel: 01604 402444 Email: karl@karmenzbiketraining.com www.karmenzbiketraining.com

Rewaco Trikes UK LTD Maria Lodge, 3 New Green Cottages, Newmans End, Matching Tye, Harlow, Essex. CM17 0QX Tel: 01279 730695 www.rewacotrikesuk.co.uk

Parkitt Performance Motorcycle Racing Neil Parkhouse, Unit 4, Ashvale Workshops, Tuxford, Nottinghamshire, NG22 0JY Tel: 07530 928314 www.parkittracing.co.uk

Smith Jones Solicitors Andrew Wilkinson, Towneley House, Kingsway, Burnley, Lancs. BB11 1BJ Tel: 08001 959590 Email: enquiries@sjlaw.co.uk

Union Leisurewear Ltd Sandra, c/o: Flexispace Business Centre, Old Hall Street, Middleton. M24 1AG Tel: 0161 877 7780

Wyrd Tony Pagan Armour & Jewellery Tony Bunch, 43 Deepdale Crescent, Cowgate, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear. NE5 3HQ Tel: 0191 286 6004 Email: fat.tonys@outlook.com

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ISSUE 93

NABD MERCHANDISE NDISE N D DIS DISE ISE IS SE NABD Official Apparel - Available NOW!

Tees £15.00 Hoods £22.00 Beanie £ 7.50

Available to order online now from

urbanteez.co.uk

n o i n u leisurewear r

thing and workwea

Premium custom clo

official supplier of outerwear to NABD

email: nabdsales@unionleisurewear.com or telephone: 0161 877 7780

Union Leisurewear is an NABD sanctioned franchise Flexi Space Business Centre, Townley Street, Middleton, Manchester M24 1AG

PROUDLY SUPPORTING

THE NABD

Here’s what our clients say...

motorcycle

accident? ...donʼt get taken for a ride!

“Service was excellent” K Boules - Sutton Coldfield

“Brilliant” V Thompson - Bacup

“Very efficient case handling” S Hooper - Bury

“Helpful explanations, good sound advice – would use you again and recommend you anytime” J Kenney - Maidstone

“Easy to understand explanations given along with great sympathy and care” A Chattle - Manchester

“Extremely satisfied by how you helped us” S Dunn - Rawtenstall

“Thank you so much for the brilliant service you provided and all the help and information you gave me throughout” J Urmston - Maidstone

. One phone call is all it takes to get a free assessment of your prospects. . Straightforward NO WIN NO FEE guarantee. . Weʼll visit you at home... no problem. . Call 0800 052 3693 . Or visit us at www.mulderrigs.co.uk

“Staff are a credit to your company – case handled superbly – fantastic, thank you” J Wood - Kent

“Came back to you again – speaks for itself” P Harlow - Waterfoot

“Nothing but praise for your efficiency” M Scholes - Burnley

“Everything was explained so easily and in good, clear detail” E Nicholson - Rossendale

experts in motorcycle claims ASSOCIATION OF PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS

A member of Law Society Personal Injury Panel. Accredited Practice

...why settle for less?

Open House Issue 93

Articles inside

Chairman's Chunk