Table of Contents
Editorial
Everyone can now start to get excited! The SAM Christmas Party planning is over. Pillion has completed the campaign of buying all the raffle prizes and the food has been booked with Julie at Treeton Miners Welfare. Buying raffle prizes is quite a serious undertaking. First there is the pre-plan planning: Where are the best bargains? Then several discussions with your Editor about what ‘combination’ of prizes might be best suited to the event? Shopping is done in several trips. Some fitted in with the weekly household shopping, others made for scouting bargains, further discussions and final purchasing! You will appreciate this is quite an undertaking on behalf of SAM Club members, Friends, wives, partners, girlfriends and live-in lovers, so BOOK YOUR PLACES NOW!
Despite the economic doom and gloom reported last week, the EICMA Show in Milan makes it clear that motorcycle manufacturers are not going to let an economic slump stop their efforts to keep us mobile. KTM might think that the 1390 Super Adventure is a great buy, in 2025, at an expected £22,495, but the rest of the market prefer something more affordable. As manufactures respond to the hard economic conditions there is now a lot more mid-range choice. Whilst there is some disquiet about the amount of distracting technology that is being put onto powered two wheel transport, technological progress has to be met with a concerted effort to ride with it. This will be down to each rider to learn how to use it and incorporate into their riding skill set. We can’t introduce a ‘SMIDSY Mark II’: ‘I was looking at the sat nav, adjusting the media player, or trying to figure out the ARAS (Advanced Rider Assistance System) warning light display. Cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure monitoring are all designed to keep us safer. Having used most of them on the the MP3 and Triumph Tiger, I know that they can be helpful at times, but also distracting when your attention is needed elsewhere. The time to understand these systems, when to use them and what the display means is BEFORE we ride.
In addition to new mid-range affordable bikes, there is a lot of innovative rider gear. Incorporating built-in air bags, temperature control and connectivity are all designed to help rider safety and comfort. There is no sign of improving the rider’s knowledge, skills and competence. It’s time that riding ability is put at the top of the development agenda by sorting out rider periodic education and training. Riding knowledge and skill sets need to be regularly updated. Being able to ride well will give a return on investment that far exceeds that offered by any new technology.
Road safety Initiatives are in the news. Highway authorities are urged to focus on improving infrastructure with clear road markings, better signage, substantial and well-maintained road surfaces. It would also help if education on sign recognition, confusing road layouts and riding skills to cope with poor road structure are included too. There is a repeated call for public awareness campaigns, aimed at other road users, about the vulnerabilities of motorcyclists. It would also help if the ‘awareness’ messages, other than the usual parroting of statistics without context, could be supported by public education by motorcyclists who actually ride a motorcycle regularly. It is only for ‘hobby riders’ that the motorcycling ‘season’ is over.
Editor & Webmaster
Kevin Williams has written his ‘Part 2’ article on how to get the best out of advanced motorcycle training. It might be helpful to share the advice with Associates before they turn up with the bike. After the welcome messages and thank goodness you are here, having a clear idea of what riders expect and what is expected of riders might be the first discussion item for both Observers and Associates. Any other rider taking any kind of training may benefit too. 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!
SAM's CHRISTMAS PARTY
Treeton Miners Welfare
Next SAM Club Night
2nd December 2024
CHRISTMAS PARTY!
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
28th November 2024
Details to be arranged
Online Motorcycling News
General
This past week has been a whirlwind of exciting news in the motorcycling world. Let’s dive into the highlights and see what’s been happening.
The Milan Motorcycle Show is in full swing, and it’s been a hotbed of new bike reveals and tech advancements. Manufacturers are showcasing their latest models for 2025, with a focus on aerodynamics and performance1. BMW’s new M1000RR and S1000RR superbikes are turning heads with their impressive aero packages designed to keep those front wheels grounded.
Ducati has pulled the covers off its new 890cc V-twin engine, which is being hailed as their lightest ever. This engine will power the updated Streetfighter V2 and Panigale V2 models, promising a thrilling ride with improved performance1.
Honda is making waves with its new electronically blown V3 motor, which could see production as soon as 2026. This mid-capacity engine is designed to future-proof their internal combustion engines, offering a glimpse into the future of motorbike technology. This innovative, electronically blown V3 engine. This groundbreaking technology could revolutionize the way we think about motorcycle engines. By using a turbocharger and electric motor, Honda aims to boost performance and efficiency while reducing emissions. This engine could power future Honda motorcycles, potentially offering a thrilling ride with eco-friendly credentials.
Aprilia has given its Tuono V4 family a significant upgrade for 2025, with a bigger engine and more power. The new tech additions make this super-naked bike even more performance-focused, perfect for those who love a bit of adrenaline.
Vespa has rolled out its new GTS 310, featuring the largest displacement and most powerful motor ever fitted to one of their scooters. This big bore boost is sure to please scooter enthusiasts looking for a bit more oomph.
BMW Motorrad revealed a new F450GS adventure bike concept at the Eicma trade show, set to bridge the gap between their single-cylinder G310 and larger adventure bikes. This lightweight adventure bike is designed to offer the best of both worlds.
The second-generation Aprilia RS660 has received more power and new tech, making it an even more exciting option for supersport enthusiasts. The Factory model also adds some extra flair to the lineup.
Aprilia has taken their Tuareg 660 adventure bike to the next level with a Rally version inspired by their works racing machines. This hardcore bike is perfect for those who love a bit of off-road adventure.
Black Friday is just around the corner, and it’s a great time to snag some deals on bikes and gear. Keep an eye out for discounts and promotions from your favorite brands.
Italian motorcycle manufacturer Bimota has released its limited-edition KB998 Rimini superbike. With a price tag of £36,600, this bike is not for the faint-hearted. Limited to just 500 units, the KB998 boasts a powerful engine and stunning design, making it a dream machine for serious motorcycle enthusiasts.
- Bimota’s Limited-Edition Superbike
Italian motorcycle manufacturer Bimota has released its limited-edition KB998 Rimini superbike. With a price tag of £36,600, this bike is not for the faint-hearted. Limited to just 500 units, the KB998 boasts a powerful engine and stunning design, making it a dream machine for serious motorcycle enthusiasts. - Motorcycle News Subscription Offers
Motorcycle News (MCN) is offering special subscription deals, including digital access and print subscriptions with access to past issues and exciting rewards. It’s a great way to stay up-to-date with all the latest bike news and reviews.
Electric motorcycles are becoming more popular, and this week, Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire One was in the spotlight. The electric cruiser, which is a high-performance alternative to traditional gas-powered bikes, is getting rave reviews for its smooth acceleration, silent ride, and futuristic features. It has a range of around 146 miles on a full charge, which makes it practical for city riding. While electric motorcycles are still a small part of the overall market, bikes like the LiveWire One are proving that electric technology can offer the same thrills as traditional motorcycles. …
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...
Riding a motorcycle isn’t just a method of getting from A to B. There’s an entire culture associated with riding, and a big part of it is the gestures and codes riders use to communicate with each other and the drivers around them. You may have seen riders give each other “the wave,” which shows bikers’ recognition of and friendship with one another, but there are several other important ways that they try to communicate with the surrounding traffic. One of these comes when a motorcycle is stopped on the side of the road with a helmet on the ground behind it. Read more…
The findings of the latest Road Safety News readers’ survey have, perhaps unsurprisingly, shown overwhelming support for the introduction of graduated driver licencing (GDL).
Of the 471 responses, 85% were in favour of GDL, with 8% against its introduction. The remaining 7% were not sure.
One respondent stated: “If such ideas are working successfully in other countries then why not in UK? Too many young people die on our roads.”
When asked what measures would improve safety for young drivers, 463 respondents answered.
Restrictions on the number of young passengers was the most selected (81%), followed by setting a minimum length of learning and hours of driving experience (71%).
Road Safety GB has long supported the idea of GDL. Read more…
Road Work Ahead: Implementing Top Safety Measures for Construction Workers
Roads are not safe places. Every year, over 135,000 people are injured in accidents on the UK’s highways. Of these, nearly 2,000 die.
If roads are already dangerous for drivers, imagine the risk faced by road construction workers. These professionals risk their lives every day to keep the arteries through which the British economy flows in good condition, often facing working conditions that are far from ideal.
In addition to physical dangers, these workers often work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, which can further increase their vulnerability.
It is because of these hazards that employers need to implement various safety measures to minimise the risks.
Brembo Brake Calipers for MotoGP
In a move to enhance rider safety, MotoGP riders will have the option to choose from two different Brembo brake caliper variants in 2025. This decision comes after extensive testing and feedback from riders. The new calipers are designed to provide improved braking performance and feel, helping riders to push the limits on the track. Read more…
Helmet Technology: Smarter Protection
This week, there was a big push in the helmet industry towards smarter safety gear. Companies like Bell Helmets and HJC are introducing new models with built-in Bluetooth systems and crash-detection technology. These smart helmets can connect to your phone for navigation, music, and even make emergency calls if you’re in a crash. As tech continues to evolve, these helmets offer more than just head protection—they might one day save your life in ways that traditional helmets can’t. Read more…
Motorcycle Airbags: A Step Closer to Standardization
Airbag technology is also being integrated into the world of motorcycle gear, and there’s good news on that front. Dainese, a well-known manufacturer of motorcycle apparel, has been testing airbag suits for several years now, and this week, the company announced that their airbag vests will soon be available for the mass market. These vests work by inflating in the event of a crash to cushion the impact on the rider’s chest, back, and neck, which are some of the most vulnerable areas in a crash.
In addition to Dainese, Alpinestars is also making strides with its Tech-Air system, which has been designed to deploy in a fraction of a second, offering protection before the rider even hits the ground. While airbag-equipped suits have been available in the racing world for some time, their availability to regular riders marks a significant step forward in making protective gear more accessible to all motorcyclists. Read more…
New Safety Regulations in Europe: Aiming for Safer Roads
In Europe, new regulations are being introduced to make motorcycles safer, particularly in urban areas. The European Union has announced that by 2027, all new motorcycles sold in the region must be equipped with advanced safety features, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and traction control as standard.
These features have been shown to reduce accidents by preventing wheel lock-up and helping the rider maintain control in difficult conditions, such as wet or slippery roads. ABS is already required on motorcycles above 125cc in Europe, but this new regulation aims to expand these requirements to smaller bikes as well, improving safety for all riders, not just those on larger machines. Read more…
Adventure & Touring
Each year, from late September into October, Ontario’s northern landscape transforms into a tapestry of vivid reds, oranges, and yellows as autumn takes over. There’s no better way to experience this splendor than from the seat of a motorcycle or, better yet, an adventure motorcycle.
You didn’t have to do much convincing to get us to pack our bags and fire up the engines for a four-day tour from Toronto to Northern Ontario. The plan is to enjoy some leaf peeping and experience some of the best paved and dirt roads Ontario offers. Our 1700-kilometer plan will sample some of the best parts of Ontario’s established moto touring loop, such as the Georgian Bay Coastal Route, Algoma’s Deer Trail Tour, Ontario’s version of the Tail Of The Dragon, as well as a few of Muskoka’s best roads.
My family and I live in Jacksonville, Florida, where midsummer heat and humidity can press down on you like a weight. Looking for a respite, we headed for the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia, some of the southernmost mountains in the 2,000-mile Appalachian chain. Where there are mountains there are usually good motorcycling roads, and North Georgia has some real gems.
With my wife, kids, and parents piled in the family hauler and my motorcycle on the trailer, the six-hour drive had all the makings of National Lampoon’s Vacation. We avoided any hijinks, but we were relieved to arrive at our favorite cabin in Cleveland, Georgia. Read more…
History & Custom
The Disciple: A Mixed-Metal Harley Bobber with EL Knucklehead Power
Anyone who’s ever picked up a wrench has probably experienced the urge to create something from scratch; something that exudes craftsmanship and attention to detail. Few of us have what it takes, and pro builders must go even further to prove their mettle. While Josh Allison’s name was already established in the custom bike world,…
History of the Honda Super Cub: How It Conquered the World With Two Wheels
With more than 100 Million sold, Honda’s world-famous Cubs—and their many spinoffs—have outsold the Beetle, Corolla, and F-150 combined.
Over the span of 65 years, Volkswagen built more than 23 million air-cooled Beetles. Since 1977, the Ford F-Series has been the best-selling pickup truck in the US, with 40 million produced. As a nameplate, Toyota’s moved more than 43 million Corollas over 11 generations.
With all due respect, those are rookie numbers. Read more…
Whiteknights Blood Bikes
South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership
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
Emphasis on PPE is post-crash treatment
Imagine you read a story about airline safety shortly before you were due to fly. Imagine that story told you that the plane was built to new safety standards and was the safest plane you could fly in. How would you feel when you were welcomed aboard and told that before taking your seat, you had to strap on the new airbag jacket, the body armour and the crash helmet you’d find waiting for you?
I’m sure you’d be appalled. I’m sure that you’d also think that the better solution to the loss of life in a plane crash is to stop the plane crashing in the first place. Read more…
Discover how your bike behaves Part 4
I’ve been meaning to finish off this mini-series for a couple of weeks but since there were topical issues best taken on the bounce, it got delayed – but it’s here now. And today I’m going to explain the difference between ‘slow’ and ‘quick’ steering, how quick or slow steering input affects the machine’s ‘rate of roll’, and how the time it takes us to achieve a lean angle that matches a corner determines the shape of the line we take through corners.
Now, I’m not going to go over counter-steering for the umpteenth time, but to remind you of the basics; push left to go left, push right to go right. Read more…
60 Second Science 19 Why modern crash helmets have aerofoils at the rear
Ask motorcycle riders what’s important to them when choosing a new helmet, and along with price, many will say fit and comfort, protection and weight.
Few will give any thought to one surprising important feature of the helmet – that’s aerodynamics.
Aerodynamics is important because the more effectively the helmet moves through the air, the less drag and turbulence it creates. Read more…
‘I don’t agree but never mind’ Part 2
Whenever I write an article, there’s always a chance that someone disagrees with me. That’s fine if it’s an opinion piece, such as my recent thoughts about the state of the motorcycle industry and whether or not it’s going down the toilet – my opinion is that it isn’t likely ‘the death of biking’ but it’s not in a particularly good shape. (There will be a little more on that in Elevenses on Sunday 10 November, as it happens, so tune in if you’re interested.)
Anyway, back to opinions. An opinion is a personal judgment, but the crucial point is that is not necessarily based on facts or proof. If I say a Harley is a better motorcycle than a Honda “in my opinion” then you are fully entitled to hold a different opinion…
Getting the most out of a training course Pt 2
Last week I started a short series on avoiding the kind of mistakes I’ve found people making when booking a course of training. As I said, I’m not going to run through all the different kinds of training, but to help you prepare before, get the most out of mid-course, then fully exploit post-training.
In part one, the mistakes I flagged up were:
- believing all training is the same – it isn’t
- not taking time to brief the trainer – if you don’t tell us what you want you may not get it
- trying to fit too much in – training takes as long as it takes and you don’t want to be rushed
- turning up tired – training’s knackering and if you turn up tired you’ll be exhausted mid-session Read more…
Motorcycling Organsiations
IAM RoadSmart
Has it been a while since you passed your Advanced test? 
- Drivers and fleet operators will benefit from access to detailed content on driving assistance features
Course was developed in partnership with the Hi-Drive project and User Education Campaign led by FIA Region I and implemented by 11 Mobility Clubs in Europe
New position to oversee commercial and operations transformation
The UK’s leading independent road safety charity IAM RoadSmart is delighted to announce the appointment of Carlota Da Veiga Pestana to the position of Business Development and Operations Director, completing its senior leadership team. Read more…
Are you aware of the OAP framework when out riding? 
National Motorcyclists Council
After the long summer Parliamentary recess, the autumn ‘term’ has started with a flurry of activity at DfT. A meeting has been held with the new Secretary of State Louise Haigh and the Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood, on day one of the new session (October 7th).
Louise Haigh called in a range of organisations to kick off discussions on developing a new Road Safety Strategy, with this aimed to be the first in several years. Several safety NGOs and transport sector groups were present, with the motorcycle sector being represented by the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC). The meeting focussed on broad themes rather than on specific details, though several ideas were put forward by the different bodies present. The NMC said to Ministers that several issues remained outstanding, such as work on motorcycle training and testing reform, bus lane access and the need to refresh the 2005 Government Motorcycle Strategy. The Secretary of State welcomed contributions from the groups present and said that detailed work on a wide range of safety issues would now commence. Read more…
FEMA
The United Nations (UN) sets the regulation that describes how your motorcycle helmet has to be produced and tested. UN regulation No. 22 applies to motorcycle helmets licensed to be sold as road-legal on European roads. The regulation establishes the ‘uniform provisions concerning the approval of protective helmets and their visors for drivers and passengers of motorcycles and mopeds’. The current version of the regulation is UN Regulation No. 22.06. Read more…
British Motorcyclists Federation
VICTORY FOR THE BMF AS BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET (BANES) COUNCIL ROW BACK ON
THEIR PROPOSAL TO INTRODUCE EMISSION-BASED PARKING CHARGES FOR MOTORBIKES
Following a coordinated campaign by the BMF, which included a joined-up campaign on the ground between BMF’s Carenza Ellery and Geoff Mills and Colin Brown from the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG), the Council has today announced that they will not now be introducing parking charges for motorbikes.
After a Public Consultation was launched by BANES Council earlier this year, the BMF submitted a comprehensive and robust response setting out our objections to the Council’s original proposals to introduce parking charges for motorcycles across the Bath & North East Somerset area (you can read the BMF’s detailed response to the Public Consultation here)
In announcing their decision, BANES Council said: “these changes reflect our policy, and also show we listen and adapt proposals in light of feedback, and do not have a one size fits all mentality when it comes to the implementation of our schemes.” 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.
Look after your bike/moped and it will look after you. Carrying out a few simple checks before each ride could save your life. Use POWDERS
Petrol
Do you have enough for your journey?
Is the reserve tap off?
Check there are no leaks
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:
138 Morthern Road, Wickersley
Rotherham S66 1EA
Telephone: 01709 709977
Fax: 01709 709987
Click the link below
