Table of Contents
Editorial
Storm Darrah did its job this week. It put those SAM members who ventured out into four wheel transport. Well, we still have to eat and catch up on news and views in the world of motorcycling. There are times when the bike should not be the first choice for travelling. Last Saturday was one of the few days when it was not safe to ride.
The SAM Christmas Party went down very well. Lots of chatting, good food and wonderful raffle prizes. We all went home feeling we had a very good time. The next SAM Club Night will be on the 3rd February 2025. Saturday meetings, weather permitting, will continue, along with SAM members’ self-organised rides. Aren’t we glad that Christmas is mid-week and won’t interrupt the weekend riding calendar!
Government consultations on motorcycling have a poor track record. After putting education, training, licensing, bus lane access and re-defining vehicle categorisation back onto the shelf, we are now asked to contribute to the next strategic plan, ‘people first’, ‘vision’ for an ‘integrated’ transport system. It is very easy to become cynical, angry and despondent, but this may be an opportunity for motorcycling to make its voice heard, through the online public consultation, outside the meeting rooms at the Department for Transport. There is a schedule of road shows where motorcyclists can make their voices heard.
In this week’s newsletter there is another roundup of news from the world of motorcycling. IAM RoadSmart has been recognised by ‘Investors in Volunteers’ for their work in having a vision, planning, inclusion, recruitment, supporting and developing their 5,000 volunteers. They also acknowledge the role of other members who promote, publicise, coordinate, manage and support road safety efforts with local road users. 
There is plenty more to read, digest and talk about. Until next week, ride safe and happy reading.
Your success is our success!
Advanced riders are safer road users, ride longer, rider further, meet more people and enjoy a healthier, happier life!
Other meetings
Next SAM Club Night
3rd February 2025
7.30pm start for meeting at 8pm. Gives you time to catch up on what you’ve missed!
Treeton Miners Welfare Club
Arundel Street
Treeton
Rotherham S60 5PW
Next SAM Committee Meeting
30th January 2025
Details to be arranged
Online Motorcycling News
General
This past week has been filled with exciting news for motorcycle enthusiasts, from new bikes and racing updates to industry developments. As we head into the new year, we can expect even more thrilling announcements and developments in the world of motorcycling.
General news
Labour Party’s Transport Vision Lacks Any Focus on Motorcycles
Online, concerns were raised that the Labour Party’s vision for UK transport consultation doesn’t include much about motorcycling. This leaves bikers wondering about the future of two-wheeled transport under a Labour government. This criticism may be premature. Whilst the focus is mainly on areas such as road improvements, vehicle electrification and public transport, the consultation specifically asks for the views of motorcyclists. Recent consultations on bus lane access, education training and licensing in motorcycling are only parts of motorcycling’s contribution to personal transport. A ‘vision’ for ‘integrated’ transport, across England, can place motorcycling and motorcyclists as an essential component of any planned change. We have some allies in Parliament, who actually ride motorcycles. We have representatives who can direct our messages for recognition of our contribution. We now have another opportunity to shape the ‘vision’ for ‘integrated’ transport into the future. We just have to make our voices heard, by ensuring that our views are reflected by Heidi Alexander (Secretary for Transport), political advisers and civil servants in the Department for Transport. We can write, email, post videos and attend the planned ‘roadshows’. The latter would make a good ride out for local bikers!
Despite facing some challenges, recent data suggests some potential market stabilization. New bike sales in the UK showed a slight increase of 0.1% by the end of April 2024 compared to the same period last year. Yes, riders are taking advantage of discounts and still buying motorcycles. Adventure bikes, in particular, have seen a significant boost, with sales up more than 11% year-on-year by the end of April. This growth is largely attributed to the popularity of BMW’s R-series GS models. While the new model is getting a lot of attention, dealers are offering attractive deals on the older R1250GS Adventure. This presents an opportunity for buyers who prefer a bargain over the latest model.
The shift towards electric vehicles is also impacting the motorcycle industry. While specific news from the past week is limited, it’s worth noting that manufacturers are increasingly focusing on electric models. Whilst car manufacturers are restricting or closing production, the trend in electric motorcycles is likely to continue. As environmental regulations tighten and consumer interest in sustainable transportation grows, there is a real opportunity for motorcycling to fill the void.
There is good news for bikers in Bath! The council has shelved plans to impose emission-based parking charges for motorcycles. This decision came after a backlash from the biking community, who argued the charges were unfair.
There is more good news, if you’re planning a ride this Christmas, you’ll be happy to hear that petrol prices are set to drop to their lowest levels since the pandemic. The RAC’s latest Fuel Watch report shows significant savings at the pump. We all know that motorcycling can be a frugal way to travel and we love a price drop!
Market News
Infinity Motorcycles has officially taken over Bike Stop Stevenage after over 40 years of trading. This means Infinity now has 16 retail stores across the UK. It’s great news that there is consolidation in the market to help bring a sustainable future.
Used bike specialist Superbike Factory has announced the opening of a new site in Crawley, West Sussex. The new site, which was formerly home to multi-franchise dealership P&H Motorcycles, will become the sixth location for the company.
Kove Moto has announced plans to expand its lineup with a high-capacity sportsbike, as well as doubling its UK dealer network.
Ducati has given its Multistrada V2 adventure bike a stylish makeover, featuring a V4-inspired design and more power than its predecessor. This new model was showcased at the 2024 Intermot trade show in Cologne. This refreshed adventure bike boasts styling inspired by the V4 model and includes an upgraded 890cc twin-cylinder engine. Designed for versatility, the Multistrada V2 targets riders seeking a balance between performance and comfort for touring and off-road adventures.
Yamaha has refreshed its popular NMax 125 scooter and introduced a high-spec Tech Max version. This new model comes with advanced features, making it an even better option for new riders. A premium Tech Max model alongside enhancements to the base version. Known for its urban usability and affordability, these changes cater to both beginner riders and commuters. The new version features advanced technology and styling improvements, expected to attract a broader audience
Bodywork specialists Puig have given the BMW R1300GS a sporty makeover, adding new bodywork and smaller wheels. This transforms the adventure bike into a more agile and stylish ride.
CFMoto has finally unveiled its highly anticipated 675SR-R three-cylinder sportsbike, and the UK arm of the company has confirmed that the bike will be available in the UK from 2025. This exciting new model is expected to shake up the middleweight sportsbike market.
Fantic Motor launched its 2025 Caballero 500 range, now equipped with an all-new MM460 engine crafted in Bologna. These retro-inspired bikes combine modern performance with classic aesthetics, appealing to riders who value both style and substance. This move solidifies Fantic’s place in the competitive retro motorcycle market
For the more well-heeled biker there is the Krämer Motorcycles GP2-890 XX, a KTM-powered naked track bike. Priced at €50,000, this model promises cutting-edge performance for serious track enthusiasts. With its sleek design and robust engineering, it sets a new benchmark for track-specific motorcycles
Developments – where bikes just get better, or reach the end of the line
Ariel Bids Farewell to the Honda V4-Powered Ace**
Ariel Motor Company has announced the end of their Honda V4-powered Ace roadster production after 10 years. The final bike has rolled off the production line, marking the end of an era for this British manufacturer.
Events
Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show
Get ready for the Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show, happening February 14-16, 2025. This event will feature the latest models from top manufacturers, live action displays, and appearances by motorcycling celebrities. The motorcycling world is gearing up for significant events like the London Motorcycle Show and Motorcycle Live. These showcases are expected to highlight emerging trends, including electric bikes and advanced safety features, demonstrating the industry’s continued push towards innovation and sustainability
Racing
After a two year absence, Faye Ho’s FHO Racing team is making a triumphant return to the North West 200 in 2025. The team will field Peter Hickman and Davey Todd on BMW machinery in both the Superbike and Superstock classes. This exciting news was confirmed during the Macau Grand Prix in November.
Miguel Oliveira Signs with Prima Pramac Yamaha: Portuguese rider Miguel Oliveira has signed a two-year deal with the Prima Pramac Yamaha team for the 2025 and 2026 MotoGP seasons.
Ben and Tom Birchall Awarded Segrave Trophy: The Birchall brothers, who have dominated the Isle of Man TT sidecar class, have been awarded the prestigious Segrave Trophy for their outstanding achievements.
Conclusion
As we head into 2025, the motorcycling world continues to evolve. From the return of racing teams to iconic events, to the ongoing transition towards electric models, there’s plenty for motorcycle enthusiasts to keep an eye on. Whether you’re a racing fan, a tech enthusiast, or simply love the thrill of riding, the coming year promises to be an exciting one in the world of motorcycling.
With a monstrous 30-litre tank, 269 kilos of Bavarian bulk, and more gadgets than a Bond car, the new BMW R 1300 GSA isn’t exactly lacking. It’s packed with power, tech, and a devilish ability to tackle trails and twisties alike. But is this heavyweight really the king of adventure?
That question was bouncing around my head as I struggled to take in the larger-than-life realities of the new GSA. Okay, it’s not as if the last iteration was a tiddler but seeing one of these in the flesh, with its all-encompassing 30-litre fuel tank, had me asking questions about BMW’s sanity. Am I sold on the looks? Not really, but lots of people are, so I’ll park my humble opinion on the styling and move on to the next factor to hit home – the sheer weight of the thing. Read more…
Labour’s vision for UK transport appears to have little room for motorcycling, leaving a glaring policy gap that offers few certainties around the future of the two wheeled sector.
During an exclusive interview, Fabian Hamilton, Labour MP for Leeds North East told MCN: “Labour is not interested in motorcycles – or so it would seem. I think there’s a lot of ignorance built into that.
“I suspect there is nobody in the government who actually uses a motorcycle. So, I think it’s important that we educate my colleagues who are ministers as to why motorcycles are just as important as cycles, cars, and any other form of transport. Read more…
Rider Safety
Do you ride a motorcycle or know someone who does? If so, you’ll know that riding a motorcycle has some risks. In fact, statistics show that motorcyclists are much more likely to be involved in a serious or fatal accident than car drivers. This is why it’s important to take steps to reduce the risks and the Biker I.C.E. Card is one of the most effective solutions available.
The Biker I.C.E. Card is a simple, yet vital tool. It contains your contact details and essential medical information. In the event of an accident, emergency services staff can quickly access this information to help them decide on the right treatment for you. By carrying a Biker I.C.E. Card, you can ensure that emergency services staff have the information they need to take account of any ongoing health problems you have and any current treatments that you are receiving. This can make their job easier and your emergency care safer. Read more...
In the UK we really cannot avoid winter, and with the UK going through a cold snap right now, there may be some of you wondering just how you are going to get to work when there is ice and snow on the ground. If you really need to ride this winter and want to know how to ride a motorcycle in snow or ice as safely as possible, this article is for you!
You might also want to read this guide to preparing your motorcycle for winter, giving you all the information you need to keep your wheels turning smoothly when the warmer weather reappears. Read more…
Adventure & Touring
In seven weeks I’ve done 7,000 miles, most of them alone, not very impressive statistics for a truck driver. But I’m not a trucker anymore; I’m just a solo overland motorcyclist. All I’ve taken from my trucking days is an inherent sense of direction and a general contentment when being in my own company. I still have a dodgy load behind me, but it’s my baggage and I’m sure I need it all. My own company is becoming a rare thing in Kazakhstan. Every car that passes (and there are many that pass my heavily laden KLR 650) have smiling faces, waving hands and phones pointing at me. This friendliness, intrigue and the open willingness to convey a sense of humanity consistently turns into hospitality whenever I stop and take off my helmet. Read more…
History & Custom
Cult Classic: A tastefully modded 1996 Yamaha TRX850 from London
Back in the 90s, Yamaha broke from their tradition of building Deltabox-framed sportbikes to create the TRX850. Sporting a trellis frame and the parallel-twin mill from the TDM850, the Yamaha TRX850 was made to entice sportbike riders away from the Ducati 900SS. So its design was an oddball, yet charming, mash-up of East and West—and…Read more
Geoff Burton has 49 scooters arranged over two levels in his garage, and every single one of them was made in Britain.
There isn’t a Vespa or Lambretta in sight among a collection of some wonderful, some weird, and some very rare British machines.
In all, there are scooters manufactured by 14 different marques and, if you didn’t realise many of them existed, you’re not alone. Read more…
I bought my old bike back 30 years later, and I wish I never had.
A little over 30 years ago, I owned a beautiful Royal Enfield Bullet. It was my pride and joy, and a real labor of love bike. I bought it in 1990 as an incomplete, non-runner for £800 and proceeded to spend hundreds of hours and hundreds of pounds getting it back to pristine showroom condition. I skipped nothing in its restoration. I stripped, repaired and repainted the bodywork, sent bits for rechroming, replaced a whole host of parts, and even the wheels got rebuilt with new spokes.
It was a thing of beauty, and it was mine. Read more…
When you think of New Zealand, what comes to mind? Unparalleled natural beauty? Lord of the Rings? Flight of the Conchords? Burt Munro? John Britten? Well, you just might want to add Paton Machines to your list.
Taking a motorbike engine and using it to power a three-wheeler? You’ve probably seen it before. But have you ever seen an Ibishu Pigeon?
Based on the Reliant Rialto (close trucklet cousin of the much more infamous Reliant Robin), you’ll find it in a vehicle simulator game called BeamNG.drive. And now, thanks to Paton, a handbuilt version powered by a 50cc Honda Gyro tilting trike’s innards is out in the world. Read more…
Whiteknights Blood Bikes
As the challenging weather conditions continue this weekend Whiteknights have deployed the “Boy Wilson” donated car to participate in another national relay. Here we are alongside a vehicle from neighbouring group Blood Run EVS.South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership
Have a safe journey home everyone.
Cracking Stocking Filler Alert!
Essential tools to prepare for the theory and practical tests. Materials directly from the DVSA – the people who set the driving tests!
Hurry, offer ends soon!
https://www.safedrivingforlife.info/…/dvsa-learner…/
School runners, commuters, shoppers, fresh-air seekers – make your journey a safe one this evening.Every death and serious injury on the road is a preventable tragedy. Yet, on average, five people die every day on the road in the UK and 82 are seriously injured (10-year average from 2013-2022). This has to change. Help us by sticking to the rules of the road. Brake, the road safety charity
Kevin Williams
I showed this particular clip as one of my ‘Video Nasty’ series a couple of weeks ago, but I thought it was worth revisiting for 60 Second Safety. In this series, I normally talk about what steps can be taken to stop things going wrong but let’s see what happens if we ignore all the clues.
Let’s freeze the video here and assess what’s going on. The rider has committed to passing the stationary bus. There’s a ‘hazard line’ centre paint marking. It’s a residential street with buildings and driveways. Ahead a vehicle appears to be parked on the right, being passed by an oncoming car. And there could be a turning ahead on the left but it’s almost completely concealed by the bus. But check the speedo – it’s showing 33 mph! What if… a pedestrian had stepped out from behind the bus? Out of sight, out of mind. Read more…
The latest book from Kevin Williams of Survival Skills Rider Training is a book with a difference; ‘Crash Scene: Motorcycle’.
It’s a compilation of a series of essays and personal anecdotes which take an honest look at the dark side of motorcycling, the moments when things don’t go as we planned.
It may seem macabre to write a book on near-misses and crashing, but how else are we going to learn to avoid that traps that can so easily end up with us in a crumpled heap?
It’s the side of motorcycling that no-one likes to admit to, but the fact is that by looking at how, where and why other riders crash, we can learn a lot about how to avoid making those mistakes for ourselves. Read more…
intelligent aero’ and electric motorcycles; what’s not to like?
I’ve wondered for years why it is that so little attention is paid to motorcycle aerodynamics – aside from the odd machine like Suzuki’s Hayabusa which was designed with airflow around rider and bodywork as a priority, the average motorcycle is less aerodynamic than a house brick – really. And if you’re pushing a blunt instrument through the air by brute force, the result is that the tank empties rapidly. Read more…
“Which foot down?” An old, old question!
“When I did my DAS I was told that I should always stop in the Safety Position with the right foot on the rear brake and the left foot down. But I was told by an IAM observer that I should stop with the right foot down and the left foot ready to change gear. Which is correct?”
Assuming a standard left foot gear shift with the foot brake on the right, it’s a good question.
The left foot down / right foot on the rear brake ‘Safety Position’ has been taught by generations of CBT/DAS instructors, and some firmly believe anything other than left foot down is 100% wrong. My experience suggests some IAM observers are equally vehement that right foot down is the right answer. Read more…
One of the secrets of conspicuity …
…is to stand out in the crowd.
Everyone and their dog (and chickens – have you seen the hi-vis coats for chickens?) is wearing hi-vis clothing these days.
It’s not only standing out against the background that matters – hi-vis yellow isn’t particularly effective viewed against the backdrop of the green grass and the leaves on the trees.
But that’s not the only consideration – we also have to think about standing out amongst our peers! Read more…
What’s the point of a Facebook page called ‘Think Biker’ aimed at powered two wheeler users? That was the question I asked ten years ago.
At the time, I suggested it would have been better titled ‘Biker Think’. I also mentioned that “most of the comments on the various videos are simply the usual ‘stupid driver’ nonsense which simply reinforce existing prejudices and do nothing to get riders appreciating that there is usually an ‘out’ even if the other guy did make the mistake that put us in trouble.” Read more…
How to exploit a car blind spot detection system
Something I’m always looking for are new wrinkles on established ideas, as well as attempting to correct mistaken thinking. Hopefully, if you’ve been following Survival Skills generally or more specifically my Science Of Being Seen #SOBS project for any length of time, you’ll know how much of a problem the driver blind spots to the side and rear of a typical modern car are, and how often they play a part in setting up ‘sideswipe’ collisions when the collision partner – all too often a motorcycle – sits unnoticed in the driver’s blind spot.
As I keep reminding riders, the advice from safety bodies that trot out the line that “the driver should check their blind spots before changing lane”, the definition of a blind spot is an area we cannot see into.
So no matter how hard we study the mirrors or force our heads round to check directly out of the windows, those blind spots can NEVER be fully checked. Even a rigorous combination of mirror and head checks will never be 100% reliable, simply because the vehicle we haven’t seen may have moved from outside the mirror’s view and into the blind area between our checks.
Hence many new models of car are fitted with the Blind Spot Information System, which naturally has been given the ghastly acronym BLIS. Read more…
Motorcycling Organsiations
IAM RoadSmart
Has it been a while since you passed your Advanced test? 
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Advanced Rider
Whichever aspect of riding you’re looking to improve, our motorcycle coaching brings your skills up to an advanced level, helping you to control the position and speed of your bike with skill and responsibility.
Just use code “BF24” at checkout to apply 10% off.*
IAM RoadSmart announces its first Investing in Volunteers award
Britain’s leading road safety charity IAM RoadSmart has been awarded the prestigious Investing in Volunteers award.
The charity, which has around 5,000 volunteers across the country that help to deliver its driver and rider courses, received the accolade in recognition of volunteer management. Read more…
It is currently the only standard that focuses on volunteers, and is based on six quality areas:
Are you aware of the OAP framework when out riding? 
National Motorcyclists Council
The Department For Transport has set out the Government’s vision for an Integrated National Transport Strategy, built on a new ‘people-first’ approach to transport. In a speech delivered to mayors, council leaders and transport bodies in Leeds on 28 November 2024, the previous Secretary of State for Transport set out how the background to the new government strategy, emphasising that the strategy will focus on how government can support local areas to make all forms of transport work more effectively together, and will be underpinned with a clear vision for how transport across England can evolve over the next 10 years. … Read more…
FEMA
On 5 December the Portuguese parliament voted against a mandatory technical inspection for motorcycles, which was to be introduced from 1 January 2025.
Portuguese riders’ rights organisation GAM (Grupo Acção Motociclista) said: “The decision to impose a mandatory technical inspection for motorcycles in Portugal, on 1 January 2025 is definitely buried. The wait was long, but it is here: Portugal will not introduce mandatory periodical technical inspection for motorcycles. After more than 12 years of fight, to bring awareness to the reality of the facts surrounding the subject, we finally got the Portuguese government on our side: mandatory periodical technical inspection for motorcycles was repealed yesterday by the Portuguese parliamentary majority.” Read more…
The European Council has adopted a negotiating position to improve road safety by addressing driving disqualifications across the EU. The proposal requires that a member state which issues a driving licence must enforce driving disqualifications imposed by another member state for serious traffic offences, improving road safety by removing dangerous drivers across the EU.
The next step is negotiations with the European Parliament.The European Parliament earlier said driving disqualification should apply in all EU countries (click here for an article from 29 November 2023). Read more…
British Motorcyclists Federation
Transport Scotland is proposing to reduce speed limits to 50mph on single-carriageway roads, and possibly reduce the dual-carriageway and motorway limits to 60mph for all traffic. The National Speed Management Review, which contains the proposals, could be put out for consultation.
The idea behind the changes is to reduce the speed differential between different types of traffic, which Transport Scotland says would have safety benefits as well as reducing tailbacks behind slow moving trucks. So while bikes and cars would see the limit reduced from 60 to 50mph on single-carriageway roads, the limit for trucks over 7.5 tonnes would increase from 40 to 50mph. Read more…
The Government Unveils Its Vision For A National Integrated Transport Strategy in England In launching a new strategy for a future integrated transport model across England, the Government has called for ideas on how it can deliver on its vision. There is a real opportunity, as the new strategy is developed, for the Government to recognise motorcycling within its core transport policy and, importantly, to realise the significant benefits that motorcycling can deliver in terms of a hugely versatile, affordable, zero congesting and lower polluting transport solution. You can read further details regarding the Government’s announcement, including a statement from the BMF’s Political and Technical Services Director Anna Zee, by clicking on the following link to the National Motorcyclists Council’s (NMC) Press Release Read more…
New Rider Hub
What is Ridefree?
Ridefree is an award-winning enhancement to compulsory basic training (CBT), consisting of pre-course eLearning modules. Its aim is to help you prepare for your CBT and riding on the road.
How can it help me?
CBT should be an enjoyable experience. But there’s a lot to learn, and it’s normal to feel anxious about your first bike ride. The good news is that Ridefree will help you become a better and more confident rider…Read more.
Advanced Riding - Keep ALL Riders Safer!
We all enjoy meeting down at Meadowhall Retail Park, whether it be to take out an associate, go for a ride with friends or just to socialise.
As IAM and SAM members we are part of a charity that promotes road safety and it is crucial that the way we ride is in line with this aim. Public perception of how we ride is really important, as we can be part of the solution to stereotypes about motorcyclists riding dangerously and causing stress or annoyance to other motorists. We should never ride in a way that might reinforce that stereotype or cause danger to ourselves or anyone else. Every member can reflect on the impression they leave on every ride.
Group riding can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of motorcycling when it’s done responsibly. However there are also some common problems created by riding in a group:
- Allowing others to dictate your riding style: Being influenced by others in the group can lead to impulsive overtakes or riding beyond your comfort level without proper assessment of road conditions.
- Riding too fast for your experience: The fear of embarrassment or being left behind can pressure riders to exceed their capabilities, compromising safety.
- Failing to scan the road ahead: Focusing solely on the bike in front can limit your ability to anticipate hazards and react accordingly.
Remember, each time you ride in a group you are representing SAM. Enjoy yourself, be safe and leave a good impression on those you meet along the way.
CLUB MERCHANDISE
Clothing can be ordered online direct from:
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Rotherham S66 1EA
Telephone: 01709 709977
Fax: 01709 709987
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