View Full Version : IAM Through SLAM - My Blog
BoltonSte
28-05-10, 07:44 AM
What with the recent fatality, Bluepete's keep safe thread and general chatting about further training, I thought I'd document my experience of IAM training through SLAM (South Lancashire Advanced Motorists).
Obviously this is only one group, but I thought it would be useful for others to see what actually happens on these courses rather than the usual: observed rides, improvments, tests that you can read about on the websites.
Hopefully this will help someone to decide if IAM is for them or not.
I'll update this for each of the rides etc. (I may even scan and put up some of my ride reports if I can find someone with a scanner and they are not too bad;))
Ste
Don't go giving all our secrets away mind you!!
Great idea though - and well done on going for the test - It does make difference
BoltonSte
28-05-10, 09:29 AM
As usual, best laid plans an all that.
Got my gear on ready to go, delivery from ASDA turns up whilst the better half is putting the little un to bed. So, take into kitchen. Quick goodbye, then I'm off to get fuel and get to the meet. So now instead of being 15 minutes early, I'm looking at being about 10 minutes late. 1 Spirited ride later and I sneak into the meeting room (above a pub).
We do the usual AA approach; Name, what you ride, why you're here etc...
From the outset, I can see this is not a slipper and BMW outfit. The range of riders taking the course is pretty diverse, from new riders (who's Dad said he couldn't ride a bigger bike until he has done IAM) to guys who have been riding since the 70's. Even one chap in full Arlen Ness who looks about 70 (sure I've seen him at the bridge before).
We go through a bit about how the course works (initial check ride, average of 7 observed rides, couple of class room sessions and then test by Class 1 police examiners) All through this it's done in a positive manner, you will pass etc... and the course will be tailored to suit what you need (if you mainly commute, you do more town work) and working on the areas that need improvement.
We then covered the bit about membership to IAM with the skills for life, how much membership to the club is. What the club has to offer etc.
Time to meet our observers. Mine is from round the corner from me, which is nice. Goes through what I want out of the course, as I'm being honest, for me it's the following:
Being safer/improve my chances of getting home.
Ride less like I'm driving a car.
Improve my confidence (linked to above) sick of having the 'damn could have done that 10 mile an hour quicker' after a corner.
Be smoother.
Try to get rid of being uncomfortable with other riders who I don't know behind me (odd one, but there you go)
Most of which he thinks is down to confidence. Explains the way he plans the sessions; about 1.5hrs in an evening. Earpieces in (we behave) then earpieces out for some fun:D I'm begining to look forward to this.
We head down to the bikes he has a look over it, makes sure it's legit. Then offers for me to follow him back, although I got warned he's on his naughty bike (R1) Off we go. I was with him until we reached the Belmont side of Abbey village. Then that was it until near Belmont, at which point I had realised that in my haste to carry everything down to the bike and chatting I'd left something at the pub,:rolleyes: so decide to head back over.
All in all a good night and looking promising, and after the day I had yesterday, belting back and forth to Chorley (although more times than I really needed to) had me happy as a pig in stuff.
Coming up in a couple of weeks: The check ride.:help:
Ste
Bluefish
28-05-10, 06:45 PM
well done mate, will be following this with interest, considering it myself. :rolleyes:
BoltonSte
29-05-10, 08:00 AM
Cheers, you three.
Not figured how to multiquite so:
Q - Don't worry I won't give secrets away, that would involve me paying attention. although if all goes well and I'm good enough I may take it further o give something back.
BF - That's exactly what I'm hoping this thread will help people with.
Ed - Cheers, it's my first attempt at something like this so positive feedback is appreciated.
Ste
Specialone
29-05-10, 08:04 AM
Im reading this with interest...
BTW the bottom r/h side where you click quote, the one next to it is multi quote, click that for all the people you wanna quote then last one just click quote and they will all come up.
BoltonSte
08-06-10, 09:38 PM
So I had my first ride today..the idea of the check ride is for the observer to get an idea on how I ride (not training) This was done under IAM conditions so headsets so my observer (Phil) could give me directions at junctions etc.
The idea is to keep it legal (much harder than you think) otherwise ride as you normally would; position, accel, mirror use etc.
Met Phil at the local petrol station, he went through the disclaimers, checked the bike over then we had a chat about what I want to get out of it (for me, improving my chances of getting home in one piece and getting more confidence in the bike/cornering).
We rode from Bradshaw to Bolton and up through Chorley, to Middlebrook then finally stopped at the Mc D's on Chorley Old Rd. 1hr 20 in total.
The route covered, 30's, through to 60's, dual carridgeways as well as normal roads all types of junctions and he even threw in some 20's and 10's for good measure (Middlebrook shopping center)
Overall ride was good, I never knew that trying to keep to the speed limit could be so much work and tiring.
Had a good debrief where we went through why I did what I did. What needs improvement. We also chatted about other riders he's trained, what they have got out of it, why they trained. One thing that came out of it is that a lot of people do IAM who have lost confidence due to offs or have had mortality checks, so may be a quicker way for some people to get it back than just trying to do it themselves (obviously everyone is different)
As I said initially, I'm going to bare all for the Org:D, so when I get chance I'll scan my review sheet (gets done after every ride) but in brief,
Things that need work are:
Rear observations (I thought I did OK with these, just goes to show:rolleyes:)
Roundabouts - Mostly safety checks for collision points (offside mostly, tied in with above)
Stuff that's Average;
Signals
Lifesavers
Junctions/traffic lights
Planning and overtaking - Could have overtaken a car who was doing between 45 - 50 in a national, I didn't because I didn't want to crawl past at +10mph. Although if done safely (and there were opportunities) then it's not the speed you do it but how. Also went past another car in a 60, clean overtake, but there was a junction I'd missed (no car there so didn't pick it up) as I was keeping an eye on the dip in the distance to make sure there was nothing coming.
Mway/Duals
Static/moving break test.
Town work.
the idea is to get everything up to Good.
I just have to find the time to get out before next Tuesday and get some practice in.
Generally I followed the system pretty well (cheers PBx as I used to follow him a lot and I guess it rubbed off:cool:)
I realize all groups are different, and can only comment on my observer and what it was like for my induction (already covered) but this is not at all like I thought it wold be (kinda thought it'd be like learning to ride) it's all handled in a friendly manner, treated like an adult. They are there to make you safer/better riders not make you feel like you're crap so if anyone is put off by the pipe/slippers image (although Phil was riding the GS not the R1 but used to have a Rizla SV, even if it was a pointy;)) then I suggest at the very least, go round to your local group and speak to them, see what they are about and if they match what you want.
It was all fun, until I set off with my new glasses still on the pillion seat and they dropped off and broke both ******* lenses,:smt092 had them 2 weeks and have a really weak prescription that only effect me when my eyes are getting tired, so didn't click that I didn't have them on. Well miffed about that, and having to drink Mc D's coffee.
No Barn for me for a while as I'm going to be out on Tuesdays, so if you see a street being followed by a GS in the NW both with neon bibs, give us a wave.
Ste
Bluefish
08-06-10, 10:14 PM
Thought they was teaching you observations-new glasses, bummer. yeah i bet it's hard to keep to the speed limits, on most roads anyhow.
BoltonSte
08-06-10, 10:33 PM
Thought they was teaching you observations-new glasses, bummer. yeah i bet it's hard to keep to the speed limits, on most roads anyhow.
They haven't started teaching me anything yet;) at least he'd left before I did it.
If my eyesight was worse I'd have noticed, at least the frames are OK (bar a couple of scratches) so I just need new lenses.
It's amazingly tiring concentrating on your speed so much, normally it's ride what you feel and keep an eye out for cameras and the like then slow down. It's the constant checking and adjusting that is the pain.
you should get used to knowing what speed you are doing without looking at the speedo - then it will get easier and come naturally. might help riding in a lower number of gear so the revs are higher in the slower speed limits.
Good Luck :)
You'll find its not just the speed that is tiring the concentration - albeit you don't think you are doing it- tires you out. I find exactly the same when observing. there will be also a amount of pressure on you whether you realise it or not. Sounds like you got a good set up and Mcd's seem to eb constant in IAM.
yorkie_chris
09-06-10, 08:43 AM
All the speed limit bollox is what puts me off it, I don't see how it is relevant to normal riding. Even bikesafe where you're being followed by a copper lets you ride like normal.
So what of these things they mentioned do you think improvements of would prevent you from having an accident?
All the speed limit bollox is what puts me off it, I don't see how it is relevant to normal riding. Because you are learning new techniques on reading the road and observations. You don't give an apprentice the same piece work target as an experience worker. IAM is a road safety organisation helping promote safer driving (DVLA term) therefore limits must be stuck during the process as that is the law.
Even bikesafe where you're being followed by a copper lets you ride like normal. Thats because he assessing you not training you otherwise you would be told the same , stick to the limits and then they tell you all the things you should be doing - remembering that the police rider training is the same as IAM. An a lot of bike safe assesments are now being carried out by IAM observers
So what of these things they mentioned do you think improvements of would prevent you from having an accident?
Anyway you make it sound like we are old slow fuddy duddys!
All the speed limit bollox is what puts me off it, I don't see how it is relevant to normal riding. Even bikesafe where you're being followed by a copper lets you ride like normal.
So what of these things they mentioned do you think improvements of would prevent you from having an accident?
That's what I thought especially with regards to the overtake as it would have actually been safer to break the speed limit for a short time in order to complete the overtake more quickly.
I did a couple of hours advanced training and the only advice he kept giving me was to stay within the 50mph limit. I still learnt quite a bit but I am unlikley to ride that slow when on my own.
When I did the council approved training I was allowed to ride normally and learnt 10 times more, in fact it made me slow down a bit as I realised I couldn't make all the observations I needed to at the pace I was going.
BoltonSte
09-06-10, 11:08 AM
you should get used to knowing what speed you are doing without looking at the speedo - then it will get easier and come naturally. might help riding in a lower number of gear so the revs are higher in the slower speed limits.
Good Luck :)
I've beenb doing 30 in 3rd and 40 in 4th etc, find the street has a recognisable tone at that.
You'll find its not just the speed that is tiring the concentration - albeit you don't think you are doing it- tires you out. I find exactly the same when observing. there will be also a amount of pressure on you whether you realise it or not. Sounds like you got a good set up and Mcd's seem to eb constant in IAM.
I've no doubt your right, like any time when you are being critiqued you always feel some pressure.
BoltonSte
09-06-10, 11:26 AM
All the speed limit bollox is what puts me off it, I don't see how it is relevant to normal riding. Even bikesafe where you're being followed by a copper lets you ride like normal.
So what of these things they mentioned do you think improvements of would prevent you from having an accident?
Q has pretty much covered what I was going to say, if i train someone at work, I have to train them as per the manual. Let them find their own way of doing it themselves (with some off the record advice) whereas if I'm doing it myself, then there's shortcuts/techniques I'd use that aren't in there, but you need the basics before you can develop the experience to recognise when/where you can apply them.
As for improvements, it's deffinately obs, well that and planning I guess. But I feel it's better to improve these through training and a systemised approach (the training is taylored to what I need) than through doing it myself. Although I must say, my obs. were much better before I left for the States, all the hormones in the beef must have dulled my wits (it's why I have moobs anyway;))
That's what I thought especially with regards to the overtake as it would have actually been safer to break the speed limit for a short time in order to complete the overtake more quickly.
I did a couple of hours advanced training and the only advice he kept giving me was to stay within the 50mph limit. I still learnt quite a bit but I am unlikley to ride that slow when on my own.
When I did the council approved training I was allowed to ride normally and learnt 10 times more, in fact it made me slow down a bit as I realised I couldn't make all the observations I needed to at the pace I was going.
Well yes and no, I get your point (it's what I usually do) but also the point was made that I could have passed and stayed withing the speed limit, which highlights my planning/obs deficits (fair point I think)
It's partly because of comments of the ilk that you have both made and I have seen on here by others that made me do this. Then there is actually a first hand account if folk wish to read it.
Also why I think anyone who's thinking of doing this needs to find a group that suits them, I have spoken to some on here who don't ride with the group they trained with anymore as they were like the guy you had. On the other hand, my observer has said he will keep up with the flow (safer) if it's going a bit over the speed limit, then on the other end of the scale, once the headsets are off, we are no longer training and essentially mates out for a ride and have seen instant ban figures on some of the country roads stupidly marked up as 50's. The lad I used to ride with was IAM and really used the principals to keep safe but as most of us the black diagonal on a white circle means GLF.
Ste
J
BoltonSte
09-06-10, 11:30 AM
As promised, here's the first sheet, hoping that as time go's on that I can see how it improves.
http://i948.photobucket.com/albums/ad322/svste/IAM%20Training%202010/th_img001.jpg (http://s948.photobucket.com/albums/ad322/svste/IAM%20Training%202010/?action=view¤t=img001.jpg)
Ste
It's partly because of comments of the ilk that you have both made and I have seen on here by others that made me do this. Then there is actually a first hand account if folk wish to read it.
And this is exactly why I am subscribed to the thread. I am thinking about IAM as well, mainly because it's just an excuse to go for a ride.
I know about the stereotype surrounding it and know most of it is bollox which is why I am suprised your instructor is so keen for you to stick to the limits all the time. Especially when overtaking.
The main thing is that you are improving your riding however and anything that reduces the risk is a good thing.
yorkie_chris
09-06-10, 11:46 AM
Anyway you make it sound like we are old slow fuddy duddys!
He said this ride was assessment not training ;)
I didn't have to stick to the limit when overtaking, as long as came back down again.
That sheet looks pretty impressive:cool:
BoltonSte
10-06-10, 09:33 AM
It was't like a bollocking or anything, one car I did at 65, then slowed down once passed. The one I didn't fancy overtaking was partly because I was in car mode still. Although the main point was that I could have passed and still been within the limit - Hence planning.
I was told that a slightly in excess overtake would not get me a fail anyway as long as it as controlled and a safe environment to do it (no junctions, close to oncoming etc..)
But I also appreciate why I need to do the speed limits whilst training as there's enough to think about anyway and I'm not being blue light trained or anything so not technically being train to ride over and above the speed limit.
Then there's all the legal crap these days. I got flashed because my instructor let me ride above the speed limit so I'll sue them etc...
Ste
Then there's all the legal crap these days. I got flashed because my instructor let me ride above the speed limit so I'll sue them etc...
Ste
SOme will remember that the way back to the campsite after AR2006 turned into a bit of a hoon. I was TEC-ing - and I had my freebie IAM hi viz on... I got a bollocking cos someone complained to IAM HQ about me overtaking them - 'some idiot on a big red motorbike' were the words used - and they relayed it to the Group, and of course I was fairly easy to identify. I was 'bringing the IAM into disrepute' and they expected better. So be careful...
Thats a good sheet - i would be happy with that. You should see mine ( yes i still have it)
when it comes to test thhe overtake and the speed limit if the question you have to ask the examiner.
YC - love you really!
northwind
10-06-10, 05:00 PM
My experience of the IAM was this:
1) Give them money
2) Get put on a waiting list
3) Get 4 rubbish photocopied "magazines" in a year
4) After a year, get told "Oh you're getting near the front of the waiting list but your subscription is up so you need to pay us money again for another year's membership"
5) Tell them to **** off
But ymmv ;)
I was 'bringing the IAM into disrepute' and they expected better. So be careful...
Why I'll never wear an IAM badge 8)
My experience of the IAM was this:
1) Give them money
2) Get put on a waiting list
3) Get 4 rubbish photocopied "magazines" in a year
4) After a year, get told "Oh you're getting near the front of the waiting list but your subscription is up so you need to pay us money again for another year's membership"
5) Tell them to **** off
But ymmv ;)
You forgot to say that they'd put the price up the following year as well. ;)
ceeshaw
10-06-10, 08:28 PM
you should get used to knowing what speed you are doing without looking at the speedo - then it will get easier and come naturally. might help riding in a lower number of gear so the revs are higher in the slower speed limits.
Good Luck :)
+1
Resist the urge to change up (and consequently, speed up) and speed-check by sound.
My experience of the IAM was this:
1) Give them money
2) Get put on a waiting list
3) Get 4 rubbish photocopied "magazines" in a year
4) After a year, get told "Oh you're getting near the front of the waiting list but your subscription is up so you need to pay us money again for another year's membership"
5) Tell them to **** off
But ymmv ;)
That is an impressive sheet to start with, as to the above, as far as i'm aware you do not get put on a waiting list, you pay your money to IAM, they forward your name to your local group who then contact you asap with details of their group and name of assigned observer, you do training and then take test usually well within year, if theres a problem with group not fulfilling their training with you then membership can be extended.
New rules and guidelines are at present being discussed to speed up this process and avoid anything like the above happening. The fee has gone up but is able to be made in 2 payments, half when joining and rest when ready for test. For some reason IAM house don't advertise this and our group is trying to get this made obvious. As to speed limits most observers ant examiners will give a leeway when overtaking in 60s but not in 30, 40 and 50's . It's always best to ask examiner what he thinks when taking test. Mine didn't allow any margin at all but most will as long as it's not excessive and/or dangerous, but only on overtakes, usually 10% ish is allowed if at all.. It's better to be looking at the road ahead than having eyes on speedo.
Daryl.
BoltonSte
11-06-10, 09:13 AM
I did it the opposite way round to this,
1. Found IAM group (knew of them anyway)
2. Sent them an e-mail asking when the next course is likely to run, any places etc.
3. Joined IAM
4. Told the group I'd joined and that I was waiting for my pack, but gave them my IAM membership number (spoke to IAM direct to get it) and was booked on the next course.
Although what I would do at point 2, if I didn't know how the group operated (wanted to make sure they weren't pipe and slippers bregade) is ask when they are next having a meeting/social and if I could tag along to have a chat. Would give you an idea if you'd want to do training with them, if not. Repeat from 1 until you find a group you like, preferably before you fork out any readies.
Ste
Apologies svste if this is off topic as the thread is supposed to be your experiences - pls say so.
About the speed limits, as Ed says, the advice from examiners locally is that they will not be looking at their speedo as you do an overtake, only before and after. But speak to your examiner before your test! so that you know their interpretation. Just be careful how you ask - do not ask them for impunity from the law during overtakes :roll:
NB This does not apply to multi-carriageway roads. someone failed for 80 on an overtake on a motorway after receiving the advice above because they were not exposed to danger on the overtake so no need to break the speed limit.
If you have issues with speed limits (even just to get through your test - they don't tend to trouble full members) then perhaps you should consider RoSPA instead. They are primarily concerned with safety whereas IAM want you to be legal as well as safe.
My recommendation of how to join IAM is don't - find and join a local group and do it through them (we don't have any waiting list 8)).
Thanks Ed for the tip on paying half & half I'll see if my local group offers/promotes this. (any links to explain/confirm it?)
BoltonSte
11-06-10, 02:22 PM
Horrendous Stu, completely off topic;)
tbh, this is exactly what I was after, not just my experience but useful information coming through from the IAM community. The nomal problem with asking a question..is you need to know the question and who to ask, whereas I'm hoping carrying on the way that we are, will raise points and clear things up for everyone as we go through it (like I would do during my trainnig) this is a discussion forum after all.
If it looks useful at the end I may see if admin want to use it as a sticky (maybe tidied up a bit first).
My recommendation of how to join IAM is don't - find and join a local group and do it through them (we don't have any waiting list 8)).
I didn't make myself clear, I meant, contact the groups first before you do anything. In the case of our group, they have your details, but then get you to enroll through the IAM website which includes test fee and 1st years IAM membership and complete the enrollment and test forms, then send them off to the group (I guess this way keeps admin for the group easier?) Technically, they will only book you on the next course if they have the paperwork. But giving them your IAM number will suffice.
Didn't know about the 2part cost thing either.
Ste
Our group only found about it because the question was asked by someone wanting to join. when we enquired we found that it was possible, 2 payments £76 followed by 2nd payment of £68 when test ready. Total cost of £144, extra £5 is to cover admin costs. I wonder why they don't promote this and also how many groups don't realise it's possible to pay this way. I agree it's easier to join through a group and gives you chance to see if you get on. Most will also give a free assessment as well. our group doesn't run set courses, just every other sat are assessment rides and also other times if possible with nominated observer.
Daryl.
Apologies svste if this is off topic as the thread is supposed to be your experiences - pls say so.
About the speed limits, as Ed says, the advice from examiners locally is that they will not be looking at their speedo as you do an overtake, only before and after. But speak to your examiner before your test! so that you know their interpretation. Just be careful how you ask - do not ask them for impunity from the law during overtakes :roll:
NB This does not apply to multi-carriageway roads. someone failed for 80 on an overtake on a motorway after receiving the advice above because they were not exposed to danger on the overtake so no need to break the speed limit.
If you have issues with speed limits (even just to get through your test - they don't tend to trouble full members) then perhaps you should consider RoSPA instead. They are primarily concerned with safety whereas IAM want you to be legal as well as safe.
My recommendation of how to join IAM is don't - find and join a local group and do it through them (we don't have any waiting list 8)).
Thanks Ed for the tip on paying half & half I'll see if my local group offers/promotes this. (any links to explain/confirm it?)
Ask your local group, if they don't know about it tell them to phone/ e-mail IAM house and get it confirmed.
And don't call me Ed:D
Daryl
Ooops! :oops:
You mean you're not the same person ;)
I imagine they don't advertise it because not everyone is as interested in passing the test as receiving the training, so the temptation would be not to pay the second installment.
Thats maybe true but the 2nd instalment covers the fee they pay to the examiners so the IAM don't lose anything. And at least they have £76 banked.
Daryl.
BoltonSte
16-06-10, 11:29 AM
So I was out last night again.
I was actually looking forward to it this week, no nerves like last weeks ride, and I've been practicing (although in the cage) of spotting the speed/street signs (repeating them about 3 times once you pass them to get it into your head) taking note of what I'm seeing (the say what you see approach) and I'll say it appears to have worked. It's more difficult on roads I commute on daily as I know the limits (hence the game of spotting the limit and other signs, then saying them out loud) but I do seem commit much more of my journey to memory. This is prety good for me, as I can go out with mates (without any booze) and still not remember what we were talking about.
I also managed to get out and do a bit of practice on the bike, unfortunately I could only get out on Monday, did roundabouts as that was my weakest point and thought I had them sussed...more of that later.
We assumed that I had already done the town work as I'm reasonably good on hazard awareness and of what's going on around me and need more polishing that training in that respect (Phil's words not mine, I'm not trying to willy wave)
As usual we did a bit of theory about road positioning and why, along with general hazard awareness whilst on the garage forcourt (looking round what do you see? this is what I see etc) covered static and moving brake checks, then went out.
Covered similar roads to last time, Belmont, Wheelton, Chorley back round through Middlebrook. 30's 40's 50's national. Especially looking at left and right hand turns. We'd already covered when you need to do life savers (which are now called 360's for some weird reason) but the bit I picked up about road position on LHT is to be a little further out than I had initially been told by others, staying in the middle of the lane on the approach then only moving towards the left of middle before you turn. This keeps lane prescence.
The ride back I was following and got a commentary for Phil, where he was looking, what he'd spotted, when he did checks etc. This was also v. useful because it begins to put the whole sequence together whilst you can just watch. Far better than being told when to check whilst being followed.
Oh yeah, I also had a could of overtakes when the opportunity arose, one a learner in Chorley between roundabouts and one in one of the nationals, there was another who was doing slow into corners (so had to back off for the 2 sec rule) then would accel. out just enough that to go past I'd have to break the speed limit. Riding on my own I probably would, as the road was safe. But as the gaames keeping legal. Then I behaved.
Ended up at McD's again, for the debrief:
I'm still struggling with roundabouts. I thought I was doing the checks, but most are miss timed so we will have a session on this later. I was sure I was doing right shoulder checks whilst in the left hand lane, but tend to do them pre apex, which is far too early.
My speed was creeping tis time as well, although I was trying not to ride constantly checking the speedo, so this is just going to be practice. I'm going to have to get a pass during the evenings for half an hour of so of doing this I think until it becomes ingrained.
So overall getting better, it also seems to be getting easier for me as well, which is good.
It looks like this is going to be more of a polishing exercise, next week we are doing corners and bends and heading up Gisburn way which should be fun.
At present, I can see how bikesafe and Rospa may have been a better option if all I'm doing is polishing, as realistically I don't do exactly 30 etc... but I must say without experience of these then I do like the way this is being structured and being broken down into managable chunks.
You'll have to wait until next week for my review sheet as I forgot to take it with me, but at least this time my glasses didn't get buggered. I've also been convinced that I need to do the IOM as well, that on Ron Haslem Race school if I want to get on track (it is my 30th this year so I may drop some hints)
Ste
daryl - Northy's experience is with EDAM (edinburgh) who do run waiting lists as they are over hugely oversubscribed though that is way beyond acceptable. You may also find that not every group will assign a nominated observer. Glasgow North gives an associate a different observer each week we have high numbers of shift workers and this works better for us.
I'm going to ask at out group about the half and half thing - could be interesting for our new commitee.
Glad you're enjoying it though Svste - it interesting for me to see how we can make improvements to our group
and defo another supporter of the Ron Haslam I'll be heading there on the 15th July!!
BoltonSte
05-07-10, 08:04 PM
So time to resurrect this thread.
I have had to cancel the last 2 rides as I managed to pull my neck (whilst brushing my teeth:rolleyes:) which meant I couldn't do shoulder checks, however, after physio and a week off work I was able to do our cones day on Sunday.
This was done on 2 college carparks.
The day was split into a couple of sessions.
Session 1 was the slow race, 3 lanes divided by cones, whoever makes it to the end the slowest, without putting your foot down go through to the next round. I managed to win 15 quid with this one (£1 in from each of us). Then we mooched over the the other car park had a chat, some drinks then began queing up for the next bit.
Slow speed manouvers;
A course was set up for us to follow
right hand bend.
Left hand 90 deg (though 2 rows of cones)
Left hand 90 deg (out the cones)
Stop box
Right round a cone, doubling back.
Down a row of cones, double back up a row etc for 3 rows.
Figure of 8
U-turn
Into a circle.
All done on clutch and rear brake only.
1st attempt managed it all until I got to the circle and just couldn't get it.
2nd attempt stuck on circle again, went round the outside a couple of times first still couldn't get the inner sorted.
3rd time was hot bothered and tired, but had another go, just couldn't get it.
By the end my left hand was killing me and I had begun to tense up on the bike so arms/neck were a little tight.
Really down to target fixation, went to the school carpark round the corner on the way home and could do left and right hand circles without much issues at full lock (bouncing off the stops). Bu intend to practice a bit more.
Usefulness of the day;
Was good, others benefitted more than I did, although did I say I won £15;). The observers were happy to talk through slow riding techniques if anyone had any issues, mainly to do slow control with clutch/rear brake only.
I was also carried out in a very relaxed manner, there was no pressure to do the training, could stop start when you wanted, do it as many times as you wanted etc, pleanty of time to chat with other associates and refresh yourself. There was also a ride out to Devils after, however, I had to go and try helmets on so skipped that part.
Tomorrow's ride has now been cancelled as I've done my neck again :mad:coming out the house this morning, so off this week as well.
At this rate I'll be lucky to get enough sessions in to cover everything I need to.
Ste
BoltonSte
18-07-10, 08:13 AM
Well I'm back again:rolleyes:
After a few weeks off the bike we went out on Tesday, in the pi55ing rain. Headed up through Rammy to Gisburn to corners and bends, so ix of carrageway and all speed limits. This was pretty much a straight forward run up there, theough a series of left and right handers to check out road reading and positioning. Which although it seems straight forward enough, helps picking up any issues with planing etc. We didn't get to do a lot on positioning due to the weather, and I must admit it fel much slower going ron the corners than I felt capable of, but is realistically what's needed for that weather. Keeping the bike upright as possible and only accelerating properly once fully upright does keep the corner speed down a lot though.
Once we got up there everything went smooth, getting up there was a different matter however.
The main issue I got picked up on were speed (not too surprised) as I was a little liberal with the throttle (I hadn't been out for weeks and it took a while to get back into riding bang on the speed limit). Once when there were road works on the dual CW that if I'd have dropped to the indicated 30 I'd expected a car up the chuff, but as the observer put it, ******** to them, jut ride for your safety.
Apparently, the limit is a limit not a target.
Also got picked up on planning/considering, it seems I have no confidence issues in the wet, however, riding roundabouts like they are dry, may look good, but fails on the considering part. Longer stopping distances, grip etc.. So that's the next bit for me to work on.
All valid points I must say, and testament to how good the S3 feels in the wet.
Oh one more tip I picked up. Don't ride with a slipped disc, the riding was OK, but I found every bleeding bump on those roads and it wasn't pleasant, at least I now know what's wrong. Roll on Tuesday.
Ste
BoltonSte
20-07-10, 10:21 PM
And he's back again:D
After last weeks ride and my speed issues, I thought I'd best get some practice in before today, so I planned to go out on Sunday, but didn't have a chance so had to brave the rain last night. It was 5hite, although I did keep to the speed limits as I couldn't go quick in some of it it was that bad. Found out which parts of my textiles leak, and had a wonderful moment when stopped at lights and water ran down the inside of my trousers.
Anyway, back to today/ My Observer thinks I'm getting to test standard now, the plan was to ride like the test, using indicators as signals although we stayed miked up in case I ballsed up and could be shouted at there and then not waiting for the debrief.
We went through Bury, Rammy, Horwich, Chorley and ended up at Bottany Bay as I also had a meet the examiner night.
In summay I got 1 average - Planning as I didn't move out to pass a stopped bus a bit down the road and similar with roadworks, I could have moved earlier. The rest was all Good. To say I'm well chuffed is to pt it mildly. I have another ride next week, a check ride the week after (different observer just to make sure all good, then test the day after #-o)
Meet the examiner was pretty good, one guy was a little old school, you could say patronising. the examiner I'm going to have is a sering Class 1 and seems like a sound bloke, he went through what he expects of us, any concerns or questions we had and booked times.
Not a very useful post this week, but once I've done then I'll see about doing a summary of how the course went, what I learnt etc.
Ste
barwel1992
20-07-10, 11:37 PM
i had been consider doing IAM but i have to say the nazi speed limit thing would drive me mad.
what are they like about loud exhaust's and stuf like that? small plates ?
another thing, been dyslexic when been told what way to turn i tend to get left and right confused, how would that impact on things ?
my instructor for my test was also ROSPA examiner so got a bit more out of my lessons as regards to cornering and road positioning so at least i got some more training when i started
independentphoto
20-07-10, 11:59 PM
i had been consider doing IAM but i have to say the nazi speed limit thing would drive me mad.
what are they like about loud exhaust's and stuf like that?:cool: small plates ?:cool:
another thing, been dyslexic when been told what way to turn i tend to get left and right confused, how would that impact on things ?
Both myself and Quedos are serving IAM observers. I shall let others answer your questions about how we (personally) are. Perhaps PM would serve this better.;)
It's very group specific, I expect... my group certainly weren't too bothered about me rolling up on a GSXR1000 with a full system on board, although I failed my test on it (for lack of making progress).
My take on the loud exhausts/ small number plates issue is that as long as the bike has a valid mot and is insured and has no obvious dangerous defects then o'k, we are only observers to the riding and safety of the rider, as the the left and right issue no problem, you must have passed the test to ride so it shouldn't be a difficulty on rides.
Daryl.
P.s, i have a loud can on my thundercat and i,m sure other observers have also.
My take on the loud exhausts/ small number plates issue is that as long as the bike has a valid mot and is insured and has no obvious dangerous defects then o'k, we are only observers to the riding and safety of the rider, as the the left and right issue no problem, you must have passed the test to ride so it shouldn't be a difficulty on rides.
Daryl.
P.s, i have a loud can on my thundercat and i,m sure other observers have also.
+1 to all that
I wouldn't let the speed limit thing put you off until you've tried it. It's just a case of being aware of what you're doing on the bike (which is never a bad thing) and then hoefully the observer will pick a route that should be challenging to even reach the speed limit.
As to the directions Barwell, how are you at following the indicators of the bike behind you, because that's what we do - hardly anyone has radios.
barwel1992
21-07-10, 04:09 PM
ok cheers :D
and Stu im fine at following indicators on bikes behind so should be ok with that
Daryl's can is VERY loud. I know, he inflicts it on me often enough:rolleyes::lol:
BoltonSte
04-08-10, 09:05 PM
I supose I'd best chime in om this as well.
The whole Nazi speed thing keeps cropping up and frankly, is a ball ***** argment.
Think of it this way, you are being taught to ride in a 'safe' manner, there's no way your 'instructor' can start off by saying 'I'm going to teach you to be safe, but we'll break the law whilst doing so' It's amazing how much progress you can make at legal speeds. On top of this, think of it like this; you are getting instructions and are trying to learn new techniques, maybe on roads you don't know whilst concentrating on hazards more than you have ever done before, do you also want to be thinking about scamera's whilst doing it? it also helps build your concentration levels a lot.
As my observer put it, these techniques apply at 30 or 130, once your not under instruction then you can ride how you want. How heavy they are really depends on the group, I know some on here who've had bad experiences with their local groups.
Each group is different, ours wanted legal bikes, one local do you really wan to you may say they want quiet cans, the best thing to do is go and have a chat.
We used mikes, although I also had a couple of rides where indicators were used, your exainer should accomodate based on your training (if they are any good)
BoltonSte
04-08-10, 09:08 PM
Anyway, just so it could have it's own post.
I passed:cool: this evening, I'll scan it tomorrow as usual seen as I'm airing my dirty laundry. But I got 3 3's, 4 1's and the rest 2's. So not too bad.
I'll compose a post with how I found the course/what I learnt when I'm not as tired.
Ste
andrewsmith
04-08-10, 09:23 PM
My 2 cents on the IAM Nazi speed limit thing is utter tripe as has been said by independent.
I'm just starting the skills for life with NAM (Northumbria Advanced Motorcyclists) and the senior observer commented that i was consistent with my speed (but just sitting above the limits and 30 and 40's overly quick).
His mind set was that a lower average speed (say 50 in 60's) when it becomes technical gives a smoother progress. Which is true
I passed:cool: this evening
Ste
Well done:p:p:p:p
andrewsmith
04-08-10, 09:45 PM
well done mate!
His mind set was that a lower average speed (say 50 in 60's) when it becomes technical gives a smoother progress. Which is true
Is it? Surely if you apply all these techniques you shouldn't have to go slow... not wishing to be difficult here, but don't you run the risk of failing on account of not making progress? It's very irritating to be sat behind someone doing 50 in a 60, surely you do 60 in a 60 if it's safe and then slow down for sharp corners, after all isn't that what brakes are for?
Bluefish
04-08-10, 09:52 PM
well done mate, bet you're glad that's done.
andrewsmith
04-08-10, 09:54 PM
Is it? Surely if you apply all these techniques you shouldn't have to go slow... not wishing to be difficult here, but don't you run the risk of failing on account of not making progress? It's very irritating to be sat behind someone doing 50 in a 60, surely you do 60 in a 60 if it's safe and then slow down for sharp corners, after all isn't that what brakes are for?
that was when their was hazards aswell (other road users). I was doing 60 into the sharp corners and it 'bit me on the a*se'
the advice i was given look ahead more and drop the speed if you can't see the exact road direction
BoltonSte
04-08-10, 10:00 PM
Well done:p:p:p:p
Ta Ed
well done mate!
Cheers Andrew, hope you get on well with yours
well done mate, bet you're glad that's done.
Fook yeah, only managed to get 4 proper 'lessons' because of my slipped disc(s) I can now abandon the bike for a few weeks until it heals (like that is going o happen)
Although obviously, now I have passed, I am a riding God and will tut at anyone who does not ride exactly at the speed limit as there's no way you can go above that and still be safe.
Just ask Starks about the run home from the barn last night. ;)
Ste
independentphoto
04-08-10, 10:10 PM
Is it? Surely if you apply all these techniques you shouldn't have to go slow... not wishing to be difficult here, but don't you run the risk of failing on account of not making progress? It's very irritating to be sat behind someone doing 50 in a 60, surely you do 60 in a 60 if it's safe and then slow down for sharp corners, after all isn't that what brakes are for?
Nah mate, that's what your observations are for. I do agree but without being on the same road in the same conditions etc, we cannot fairly comment.
Well done on passing.
Garry
:cool:
yorkie_chris
04-08-10, 11:23 PM
His mind set was that a lower average speed (say 50 in 60's) when it becomes technical gives a smoother progress. Which is true
But slower.
IMO you want to be using brakes and power to the full. You can still do this smoothly.
You don't get 8 pistons and foot-wide brake discs for sh*ts and giggles...
very well done on passing, with good scores, :D
Daryl.
BoltonSte
06-08-10, 07:25 PM
I've never understood the obsession with speed and the IAM. The point of the course is to teach safety through awareness, not how to do the IOM at race pace. They have to teach you within the law, therefore you can't go fater than those red circles with numbers in them allow whilst under observation.
I've given my bike a good going over and I'm pretty sure that the group have not managed to sneak a restrictor in anywhere. I'm also pretty sure that I haven't had a shock collar fitted that fires if I venture over the limit. Once I'm on the road I control my right hand, and can ride at a pace I deam suitable, whilst still applying the safety techniques learnt during the course.
Ste
sloppy joe
06-08-10, 07:35 PM
Well done!
BoltonSte
06-08-10, 07:40 PM
The Test.
I was getting nerves the day before, I'd already had a meet the examiner night at the group and had a chat with Mike, my examiner and serving copper. He seamed like an OK kinda guy, but it was still a test so usual nerves applied.
Rolled up to Middlebrook at about Quarter to 7 and I've never seen the place so busy, they've also been digging up the varpark which didn't help. A few niceties, got intercommed up and off we went.
Headeed off up the A6 towards Chorley, through addlington, coppul, towards over the reservoirs over rivi to belmont, scout road and stopped at the pub on the left as you drop back down to horwich (about an hour in all) taking in all road types and limits.
I had a nervy start as expected, although once going it wasn't too bad. At one point a black Blackbird came flying past us (I'd seen a bike in and out further back) my first thought was that I'd propper buggered up and Mike had decided to call it quits (black busa) until I spotted the cans and no hi-vis. Other than that, pretty uneventful, other than missing a 60 as we turned onto a single track road (which I was only happy doing 30 on anyway, when it went to 2 lanes, and I sused it was a sixty, strated getting up to speed and there was a 30 round the bend, typical:rolleyes:) made good progress, a couple of overtakes where possible.
The debrief was OK, the only real sticking points were that he wanted me to look further back on lifesavers (nearer 180 deg), noticed that I tend to drop in towards the apex a little (but don't apex per say), could do with doing shoulder checks a little earlier and don't go out as wide as he'd like for bends (both near and offside) but nothing looked dodgey which was good.
here's the test sheet.
I'll write a complete summary of what I thought about the course (and observer) along with what I got out of it later.
Ste
BoltonSte
10-08-10, 02:36 PM
So it's taken me a while to get round to this, and I'm trying to avoid doing the garage whilst waiting to go to the doc's :rolleyes:so thought I may as well get my act together.
I'll split this up a bit to make it easier (and you can skip the bits that don't interest you) here's what I thought and how I found the course in a nutshell:
What's the IAM Skills for life for?
The purpose of the course is to improve your awareness and safety.
It will not teach you to be a faster rider per say (they won't teach you to do bend X at 80 instead of 50) but faster riding may be a useful byproduct. But it will teach you to ride less instinctively (I know I did) and think more about what's likely and could potentially happen. To turn you into a 'thinking rider' to quote my observer, and a safer rider.
What does the course entail?
You intially do a check ride, you ride as normal (or as normally as you can whilst having an observer behind you) this allows them to assess your machine control, observations etc. and identify areas where you need to improve.
You then go out for a series of rides, the number will vary based on the individual, but with SLAM about 10 are penciled in. Typically about 7 are carried out before your test (I managed 4 in the time frame we had due to a busted neck) and you organise these with your observer. The idea is that you cover all aspects of riding, so; towns, roundabouts, corners and bends. depending on the group, these may also be tailored to suit your needs (I know I missed some out as my examiner thought I didn't need them). You may use intercoms or indicators to take directions, again group specific.
You get a free book ;) How to be a Better Rider, and they teach you to follow The System which essenially divides up your processes into a sequence of steps (that you do continuously) Information, Position, Speed, Gear and Acceleration. As well as teaching you ways to improve your observation and using the system to attack certain hazards (like roundabouts) although using the course it is recommended that you stick with the htbabr book, there are other books out there that you can purchase that would also give you an insigt into this type or riding if you didn't want to do the course.
You will get taught whilst obaying road laws. Regardless of what anyones views are on speed etc. This is an official body who are training you to be a better rider as such they must operate within the rules of the road whilst doing so. Different groups will have different stances, but once you are not training/miked up/jacketed then you control your right wrist so it's up to you what you do with it. To quote my observer, the sytem works at 30 or 130. It's your choice where you apply it.
Once your observer thinks you are up to par, you get a final check ride with someone else to make sure there's nothing obviously wrong. You then get to have a test where yoou get followed by your examiner (serving or ret. cat 1 copper) in the same menner as our obs. rides. Who will then go through everything with you and decide if you are recommeded or not (don't know why they just don't use pass/fail) and give you a competency score for various skills.
Why did I do it?
Way back at the beginning, I'm pretty sure that I wrote this down. But essentially I wanted to get the following out of it:
Be safer.
Gain cornering confidence; I don't potter, nor do I think I'm Rossi, but I do have the times when I think 'I could have done that a lot faster why didn't I'
I've always had a quirk that I don't like being followed by other bikers. If in a group I'll try and be towards the back. My mate used to force me to lead. So I wanted to get this sorted.
Ideally I wanted to gain a bit of speed, mostly linked to observation.
I wanted to be trained by someone as opposed to doing it from a book. I find it's easier that's all.
I also wanted to get those rides where everything gels, where you see hazards in pleanty of time, to be the norm. Not just a good day.
What did I get out of it?
Let me try this again, just spent an hour typing and lost it all.
The safer part; I feel safer riding, mostly down to having the feeling of more time and better obs.
Cornering confidence; Something that I may have learnt through mates talking with me. But following my obs. through Abbey village to Belmont (before training) then having a chat has made me realise my cornering isn't that bad.
Being followed; it's exercise my demons, you don't have a choice when you're going on observed rides every week really.
riding where everything feels gelled; funnily enough this has happened, not been out for fun since doing this, but I must say when I have been out it's felt good, a lot of this is down to obs. and using all the info availible simpley gives you more time.
gaining speed; this is another funny one. On some roads deffinately, everything feels nice and sedate until I look down and see three figures or the shift light flashing, on other roads, I have slowed a bit as I now percive the hazards that I either wasn't aware of, or just ignored.
What else have I learnt then? well I think I have been made into a thinking biker, I used to ride on instinct, to clarify, I would ride how felt right. The earlier post about riding in the wet like it was dry for instance. Now I feel that I'm processing a lot better and using that information. My concentration levels have definately increased, even in the cage I find myself on autopilot much less. My general awareness of what's going on around me has been improved also.
How did I find the course?
Overall I enjoyed it, my observer was a bit of a tool (just to see if he' reading this) and i hate hime for having an R1 which has now been replaced by an RC8 as he blew the engine along with a GS. But seriously he made the course entertaining and was east to get along with. This is where going to meet your local group before signing up will pay dividends, if you don't like them, you won't benefit. My observer was realistic, he appreciated that I may stray over the posted on occaision and didn't take the holier than thou attitude but also that we couldn't do it dring training. The balance was just right it was like when you first learn and go out with a mate who gives you some pointers when you've stopped for a cuppa (his head won't fit in his helmet now)
The classroom session to me was boring and I didn't benifit much. However, judging by what was being asked, this is useful if you either don't have the time to discuss things with your obs.
The slow day was great fun, I won £15. But got defeated on the obstacles and I'm going to try and tag along with the next course. The obs. that were there were fantastic at helping to get you doing it and even showing us how at some points. I found meet the examiner night v. useful, although the examiner heading it grated a little as he was old school at least the guy we had we could ask questions to and was nice and approachable.
What did surprise me however was how many people didn't turn up to the extra sessions.
Overall, glad I did it and found it worthwhile and fun.
Would I recmmend it to a friend?
this is the bit you've all skipped to isn't it, be honest, you've got sick of my rambling. well would I recommend it to a friend? a definitive maybe.
I'm not convinced this will suit everyone, some would learn a lot just from reading roadcraft (another recent thread springs to mind YC) whilst others may be better suited to Rospa. Although if you have any confidence issues then a I feel a hands on approach would be useful.
So let me rephrase the question; Would I recommend further training to a friend? Without a doubt. We all often see it being recommended usually in threads like 'what's the best mods to make the bike go quicker' bt having done it then I wish I did it before. You just have to look at the folk who were on my course, from someone who's just passed to more mature gents who had been riding for near 40 years, although I've not had chance to speak to them properly. In the classroom sessions all of them had said they'd learnt a lot.
As a final note;
I do intend to take this further, I'm planning on becoming an observer then who knows. But if and I meant this as if (I wouldn't do this to you otherwise) I manage to make a half decent observer, then I will throw myself open to the forum and will be happy to carry out assessment rides with members and work with members on any issues that they have if they do not want to go all the way and sign up for courses (it's in writing now so i can't back out).
The only caveat to all this is that I've only got experience with my local group and if you are thinking of doing further training get together with your group first to see if what they offer suits your needs.
Just thought of a last, last bit. ADMIN; is it worth putting a further training sticky up for people to pt their experiences down? It may help others make up their minds and I knwo there's already a similar thread to mine in talk/issues but on Rospa.
thanks for your patience in my ramblings.
Ste
BoltonSte
10-08-10, 07:20 PM
bumpity bump...I've finally finished the writeup
Ste
MisterTommyH
12-08-10, 07:39 PM
Are there any other options for improving riding other than IAM?
I've been riding for about 6 month, and don't quite have the confidence in all the area's I want (i.e. overtaking, going round roundabouts too slow etc.)
I also find that I sit behind traffic alot and get in the way of other bikers who want to overtake (although I try to move over and let them pass).
IAM looks good, but are there other ways / courses that I can try? Did apply for a bikesafe course, but there were no places.
hahaha just tell everyone your licence number etc.etc on an open forum.
BoltonSte
12-08-10, 10:08 PM
hahaha just tell everyone your licence number etc.etc on an open forum.
Surely a bit paranoid as it's not an electronic form just a scan?
But well spotted I'd forgot it was there and as I don't know if it can be picked up I've removed it.
Ste
BoltonSte
12-08-10, 10:12 PM
Are there any other options for improving riding other than IAM?
I've been riding for about 6 month, and don't quite have the confidence in all the area's I want (i.e. overtaking, going round roundabouts too slow etc.)
I also find that I sit behind traffic alot and get in the way of other bikers who want to overtake (although I try to move over and let them pass).
IAM looks good, but are there other ways / courses that I can try? Did apply for a bikesafe course, but there were no places.
There's bikesafe like you tried, there's some stuff they run at the Ride safe back safe meets.
Another thing is just get out with someone who is experienced. You'll learn a lot if you have a mate to follow. Just make sure you ride at your pace not to keep up and watch what they do.
1. If they bugger off and leave you then they're not really helping and find someone else.
2. It's a good starting point as any and will at least make you appreciate what the bike is capable of.
Ste
andrewsmith
12-08-10, 10:31 PM
Are there any other options for improving riding other than IAM?
I've been riding for about 6 month, and don't quite have the confidence in all the area's I want (i.e. overtaking, going round roundabouts too slow etc.)
I also find that I sit behind traffic alot and get in the way of other bikers who want to overtake (although I try to move over and let them pass).
IAM looks good, but are there other ways / courses that I can try? Did apply for a bikesafe course, but there were no places.
There is also RoSPA training which will start an argument starter between the pros and cons between it an IAM
Some people also say track training gives a greater appreciation of what the bike can do, but that is all focused around closed road riding.
After that its Roadcraft which is police highways training
What Ste has said about following/ leading with a friend on a run is a good starter as it shows styles of riding.
For example I'm smooth and flowing rider, whereas my mate is on the brakes late and through the corner. Guess who's the knackered one after an hour of fast road riding
yorkie_chris
12-08-10, 10:33 PM
Some people also say track training gives a greater appreciation of what the bike can do, but that is all focused around closed road riding.
The IAM teach you about going really slowly around a car park. That's really focussed to going really slowly around a car park.
andrewsmith
12-08-10, 10:44 PM
made as a obvious comment YC and yours is aswell
The IAM teach you about going really slowly around a car park. That's really focussed to going really slowly around a car park.
I wouldn't call Mallory or Knockhill car parks (except their respective hairpins), but both have hosted IAM skills days this year.
One of the possibilities that has been missed is the DSAs enhanced rider scheme, although I don't know anyone who has been on it and where it fits between the category A test and either of the advanced tests. Mentally, I position it as similar to pass plus for cars, but I'm probably wrong ;)
andrewsmith
12-08-10, 10:58 PM
One of the possibilities that has been missed is the DSAs enhanced rider scheme, although I don't know anyone who has been on it and where it fits between the category A test and either of the advanced tests. Mentally, I position it as similar to pass plus for cars, but I'm probably wrong ;)
The enhanced rider scheme seems to be like the car pass plus in it positioning
yorkie_chris
13-08-10, 09:37 AM
I wouldn't call Mallory or Knockhill car parks (except their respective hairpins), but both have hosted IAM skills days this year.
But hardly the staple of it.
Anyway my point was about the track days being track biased... and how that makes no difference to gaining skills on the bike, you're still riding a bike around and improving your skills on it.
My idea of perfection is when you are capable of using your bike and tyres to the absolute limits of power, brakes, grip... and apply this right up to the limits of visibility.
My fault... I misread what you put as an insult to the IAM, not a comment on being overly focused. It probably shows the opposite in hindsight, as what is essentially a road-based programme admits to the usefulness of the controlled environment of a track.
I thoroughly read this thread and made my decision last week to enquire about the IAM in my area...
I was kindly invited along to my local IAM meeting to have a free ride out and see what it is all about! They were extremely nice and pleasant towards me even though I think they were a little unsure about my age (22) to start with and if I was going to be a hooligan rider or not, lol.
So after a little talk and introducing myself. They found an observer who would be with me for the day..
I won't give all the secrets away but it was great fun! and it is great to get input on someone observing my riding, as everything thinks they are a great rider at times but are you really? is what I always think...
Anyhow, don't get me wrong there is things I can improve on but overall I was told that "You should be very chuffed with that result on your first IAM Rideout". And it was actually pretty good, plus with the fact I was a little nervous as everyone is no matter what you say about having someone following me and judging me. It all turned out fine! :-)
Can't wait till next week now... :-)
Best of all of observer thought I was a confident rider and knew my machine very well! :-P
BoltonSte
28-10-11, 08:14 AM
Well a further update is required...I can't remember if this is above and can't be bothered re-reading through my posts ;) last year as I was getting ready for my test, I was told by my observer that I should look into training as an observer myself, that it would improve my riding still further as you need to plan for you and the guy you are helping. These sentiments were echo'd by my examiner at the time. So I thought, what the hell!, it doesn't cost me anything, it'll improve my riding and it lets me do something to help others whilst doing something I enjoy (I appreciate these are selfish reasons to help a charity, but there they are).
So I put myself forward to the group. This year around April I got an e-mail saying they'd be interested in having me train up.
The first thing we did was all get pulled into a preliminary meeting, which was done at the local meeting point (a pub) the morning was a case of running through what is expected of you, the course structure etc...then we got lunch and went out for check rides to make sure we were up to the grade. Again, I was having fun with my disc and was off work at the time so riding was out of the question. I did get to meet some of the others though (mmmmm hot lass in tight base layers :D, but anyway I digress).
Fast forward to July and I get an e-mail through saying we're about to start;
Similar to the skills for life course I initially did, this was a series of rides with me playing the observer and a senior observer playing associate.
This course trains you on what you need to do what the observer does with you and what you need do unto others.
After about half a dozen sessions I was in for my test, which went pretty well and I passed. I don't officially qualify until I have done 10 hours as an observer so after my first associate next year, when the courses start again in March.
So I need help with my checklist before I start;):
Pipe - got
Slippers - Got
Slight sense of superiority - need to work on.
The right to tell random folk I meet in the pub what they are doing wrong - No don't tell me!
Bike - Pan, RT, FJ need to sort (in white of course)
Stickers - Anyone know where I can get enough reflective stickers to blind other road users?
HiViz textles - Need something bright enough to burn retinas in sunshine and mildly stun in a high beam.
Beard - Never gonna happen, I shave my head face every couple of days (nothing to do with having one bit patchy and the other thinning honest).
Or I could just carry on riding my triple, being myself and helping other folk...with the occaisonal grass tracking on AR's
Ste
Slight sense of superiority - need to work on.
Replace slight with mahoosive and you're about there ;)
I was told once after an IAM bod saw me come round a traffic island and pull into the same petrol station as him "Leaning off the inside of the bike is potentially dangerous and does not belong on the road".....thanks Grandad, if I wanted your advice i'd ask for it :smt098
I'm sure you'll be one of the good ones though :)
andrewsmith
28-10-11, 10:10 AM
Replace slight with mahoosive and you're about there ;)
I was told once after an IAM bod saw me come round a traffic island and pull into the same petrol station as him "Leaning off the inside of the bike is potentially dangerous and does not belong on the road".....thanks Grandad, if I wanted your advice i'd ask for it :smt098
I'm sure you'll be one of the good ones though :)
Haha
Is it?
Definitely didn't have that one with the Instructors I had.
Anyways well done Ste!
BTW R1200GS Adventurer should solve all your problems with terrain ;)
Replace slight with mahoosive and you're about there ;)
Reading all the reports I'm guessing that might be some truth behind it but I was fortunate enough to have a great observer who happened to be a great coach as well.
I've been encouraged and told how great I was doing even if I felt I had a rubbish day. I easily accept constructive criticism form a person who's dedicating his time to observe and point out mistakes and imperfections. Why else would someone enrol into an advanced course if not for correcting mistakes and learning more.
I found that IAM has little to do with bike control or performance riding, although you kind of need them in you have to pass the IAM test. It is clearly based on observation and road safety which is a solid and essential foundation to build the skills afterwards.
I added some machine control day to learn more about what a bike can do in unusual situation, how much grip there is in an emergency break, high speed swerving and all that that don't teach at IAM. Track days also help with high speed cornering confidence so I would say they are just as important.
I remember vividly what my examiner told me the day I passed IAM. "My riding is as good as my last ride. The day you'll think that you've conquered it all, it will be the day you'll most likely have an accident." I found it really inspiring since it came from a Police motorcyclist with 27 years of experience in the service averaging 40k miles a year.
I've signed up for observer training myself and next year I'll be shooting for RoSPA gold which I know is very tough to achieve for a newbie but setting up higher targets is the only way to keep pushing yourself towards being a better and safer rider.
I highly recommend to anyone who is considering it.
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