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Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 15th November 2024

SAM Weekly Newsletter – 29th November 2024

Table of Contents

Editorial

It’s the FREE SAM Christmas Party on Monday! This is an annual event for members, families and friends, to get together, catch up on news and generally enjoy the fun. Julie at Treeton Miners Welfare is again providing the feast for everyone to enjoy. I’m not sure there is anything better than good food and good company, but we’ve strong-armed Janis (editor’s wife) into getting some fabulous raffle prizes. A fantastic way to start you Christmas celebrations, so please BOOK NOW by clicking the link below!

The bus lane access saga rumbles on with a lot of  very angry copy online and in print. If the DfT (Department for Transport) is going to run a survey in future and the majority of respondents support the change, don’t expect the Department to take any notice. It now seems a futile exercise that seriously harms their reputation for listening to experts and public opinion. If you want to fully understand the issues, you actually have to ride a motorcycle and be involved in training riders. I doubt that many civil servants or government ministers have even sat on one!

To rub salt in the wound, the DfT are now considering legalising e-scooters and e-bikes. Outside of the industry there is an almost universal condemnation of their use on public roads and pavements. Their use is not resulting in the alternative transport gains that were envisaged. We already have a perfectly good solution. They are called motorcycles and require riders to show their knowledge, skill and competence in riding them. Along with protective clothing and head protection, insurance and taxation, we don’t need to look elsewhere. Electric motorcycles are developing fast and have already shown their ability to travel reasonable distances on planned routes. Swappable battery technology, already available in parts of Asia, can only help to progress their usability further.

In the rest of your newsletter this week there is a run down on news from the world of motorcycling. IAM RoadSmart are promoting Gift Vouchers. The Whiteknights continue to serve the NHS and still need riders, fund raisers and promoters to help them continue helping everyone. Did you know they also deliver medication to people’s home? Such a great service. Kevin Williams talks about handguards amongst other things. Did you know that dispatch riders used cut-down plastic bottles, fastened by the bar-end screw, to protect their hands? There’s bags of more interesting content for you to enjoy until next week. Ride safe, happy reading and see you at the Christmas Party on Monday, 2nd December 2024 at 7.30pm.

PS: Some SAM members and ex-members are having a hard time with health and other problems. We are always here to cheer you up. Take care.

Your success is our success!

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 18th October 2024 Advanced riders are safer road users, ride longer, rider further, meet more people and enjoy a healthier, happier life!

SAM's CHRISTMAS PARTY

SAM Christmas Party - Monday 2nd December 2024 @ 7.30pm
2nd December 2024
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

The motorcycle community has been let down again!

The UK Government recently announced plans to allow motorcycles to use bus lanes by default, sparking a lot of recent discussion. Here’s a breakdown of what’s going on, along with some expert opinions and the potential advantages and disadvantages of this policy. As you read on, keep in mind that the first bus lane was introduced in 1968 and motorcycles began having access in 1994. That is more than enough time to assess whether motorcycles create any kind of problem for road users. Also, segregating motorcycles from other traffic keeps us safer and removes risks to riders from high sided vehicles and cars. The exact date when motorcycle access to bus lanes started in Sheffield is difficult to determine, but there must be many decades of happy coexistence with other road users, otherwise the decision would have been reversed for reasons of safety!

What’s was the Plan?

The Department for Transport (DfT) ran a public consultation from March 17 to July 16, 2024, to gather opinions on whether motorcycles should be allowed to use bus lanes by default, similar to bicycles. The consultation received 14,327 responses, with a majority supporting the idea. In fact, 98% of individual respondents and 93% of stakeholder organisations supported the measure. When was the last time that happened in a UK Government survey? So, the Department for Transport is ignoring the clear mandate to support a policy of default access to bus lanes for motorcycles. Was the exercise simply face-saving for a decision already made? If so, it backfired and throws into doubt about the intentions of any future survey from the DfT. Another waste of time and public money.

Expert Opinions

Tony Campbell, CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), expressed disappointment with the decision, stating, “It flies in the face of clear evidence and overwhelming public support.” He emphasized that motorcycles are a sustainable transport solution and should be encouraged.

Craig Carey-Clinch, Executive Director of the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC), also voiced concerns, saying, “It is extremely concerning that the Government has ruled out a measure that could contribute notably to motorcycle safety.”

Advantages

  1. Reduced Congestion: Allowing motorcycles in bus lanes could reduce traffic congestion, as motorcycles take up less space than cars.
  2. Shorter Journey Times: Motorcyclists and other vehicles would experience shorter travel times, making their commutes more efficient.
  3. Environmental Benefits: Motorcycles produce fewer emissions compared to cars, so encouraging their use could help reduce overall CO2 emissions. Also, motorcycles are at least one-third or less than the weight, including the rider and pillion, than cars. This means far less damage to the UK fragile highway infrastructure in urban areas. In the event of a crash, they cause far less damage and their manoeuvrability enables them to avoid obstructions more easily.

Disadvantages

  1. Safety Concerns: Some experts argue that the safety benefits of allowing motorcycles in bus lanes are not clear. There are concerns about potential conflicts with buses and other vehicles. If it were possible to establish absolute proof of the benefits and risks of a motorcycle, or any other vehicle, when accessing bus lanes, it would take decades of research. Then, it may only conclude that ‘more research’ is needed! The existing 20-year Crash Map data, does not show any increased accident risk where motorcyclists are allowed to use bus lanes. Motorcycle accidents most frequently take place at junctions, on corners and during overtaking. Without any supporting data of increased risks to or from motorcyclists using bus lanes, it seems like an excuse from politicians and civil servants, when they can’t come up with a better one, for not helping to make the highways safer for motorcyclists and other road users.
  2. Implementation Costs: Local authorities would need to update traffic signs and regulations, which could be costly.

    If the issue weren’t so serious, this excuse for not implementing the policy would be laughable. Regional Highway Authorities and Local Highways Departments are changing and replacing road signs all the time. Even with constrained budgets, they are legally required to maintain and update highway signage. Not least at the political whims of politicians changing speed limits and Highway Code requirements.  

  3. Inconsistent Policies: The current patchwork approach, where local authorities decide individually, could lead to confusion and inconsistency across different areas.

    This is unsurprising as the vast majority of decision makers have NEVER RIDDEN a motorcycle. They prefer instead to believe urban myths and pander to social prejudice about motorcycles and motorcyclists.

Conclusion

The UK Government’s decision, not to allow motorcycles in bus lanes by default, is still under debate. While there are clear benefits, such as reduced congestion and environmental advantages, there are also valid concerns about safety and costs. It’s presented as a complex issue that requires careful consideration and collaboration between the government, local authorities, and motorcycling communities. However, many of the arguments, against motorcycles accessing bus lanes by default, ignores the history of the policy, experience of motorcyclists, advice from experts and the accident data sources that are currently available. If you are looking for perfect proof of absolute safety, we’ve got news for you, it’s never going to exist!

More travellers are now forsaking unreliable, or unavailable, public transport. They are ditching the gridlocked commute and taking to powered two-wheel transport, whether this is motorcycles or eBikes. Both forms of transport offer personal choice, ease of use and ready availability. Many young people are coping with increase financial hardship whilst many travellers are frustrated with a lack of suitable and affordable alternatives. Powered two-wheel transport offers a realistic and practical alternative to other means of travelling. Motorcycles are a way forward and motorcycles in bus lanes are quicker and safer for everyone.

What do you think about this policy? Do you think motorcycles should be allowed in bus lanes by default? Let me know in the pop-up form when you’ve finished reading!

Motorcycling News Roundup: November 17-24, 2024

Let’s dive into the latest happenings in the world of motorcycling over the past week.

MotoGP Championship Wrap-Up

The final round of the MotoGP 2024 season wrapped up with Jorge Martin, after a thrilling showdown with Francesco Bagnaia in Valencia, clinching his first-ever MotoGP World Championship. Martin’s impressive performance throughout the season, especially in the explosive Saturday races, secured his victory. This win has sparked debates about Ducati’s decision not to sign him, leaving fans wondering what’s next for the talented rider.

Superbike Champion Kyle Ryde

In the UK, Kyle Ryde was celebrated as Britain’s latest Superbike champion. MCN had an exclusive chat with Ryde and his family, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and hard work it takes to reach the top of UK bike racing.

Zero Motorcycles’ New Partnership

Electric motorcycle brand Zero Motorcycles announced a new partnership with Zongshen in China to produce lightweight off-road electric bikes, the XE and XB models. These bikes are designed for off-road adventures and are expected to make a splash in the electric bike market.

Honda’s Special Edition X-ADV

Honda UK revealed a special edition of their popular X-ADV adventure scooter in a striking yellow color. Priced at £12,499, this edition comes with advanced features and is aimed at adventure enthusiasts.

Kove Moto’s Expansion Plans

Kove Moto is making waves with their plans to expand their line-up, including a high-capacity sports bike. They also aim to double their UK dealer network, making their bikes more accessible to riders across the country.

Yamaha R125 Tech Update

The ever-popular Yamaha R125 sportsbike is getting a tech update for 2025. The update includes new colors and enhanced mobile connectivity from the TFT dash, making it even more appealing to young riders.

CFMoto’s 675SR-R Sportsbike

CFMoto finally unveiled their long-anticipated 675SR-R three-cylinder sportsbike, set to land in the UK from 2025. This bike promises to bring track-ready performance to the streets.

Superbike Factory’s New Site

Superbike Factory, a used bike specialist, announced the takeover of the former P&H Motorcycles site in Crawley. This new location will become their sixth site, expanding their reach and services.

Motorcycle Live Show

The annual Motorcycle Live show kicked off at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC), attracting over 90,000 visitors. The show features a wide range of bikes, gear, and accessories, making it a must-visit event for any motorcycle enthusiast.

That’s a wrap on this week’s motorcycling news! What’s your favorite story from this roundup? Let me know in the popup for when you’ve finished reading.

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 As True Heroes Racing celebrate another hugely successful year as a team, we look back on some of the highlights of the season, both on and off the track. 

This year, the team competed in the Superbike Superstock 1000 and the TriOptions Cup competitions under the guise of the British Superbike Championship series. Here we go through the top moments from the 2024 campaign.

True Heroes Racing achievements in 2024

  • Charlie White winning the British Supersport Last Chance Qualifier race at Donington Park
  • Charlie White winning the British Supersport Cup race at Snetterton

Rider Safety

It's FREE! from Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Ride safe.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... 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 When I say that I usually am referring to paying attention to everything around you so you do not get hurt.

Well even if you do that there is always the chance that someone else isn’t paying attention.

FREEDOM OF CHOICE – We all make daily decisions on what to wear when we ride. Some places make it mandatory to wear helmets and eyeglasses.

Sadly, even if you are doing that and even using more safety gear to many riders are getting injured and killed. Many times, from Blunt Force Trauma.

While discussing this is not always popular, it is something we need to do from time to time. Read more… 

Adventure & Touring

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 KTM is the latest entrant to the league of lazy shifters and introduced an automatic transmission system they call an “Automated Manual Transmission” or AMT. BMW, Honda, and Yamaha, all have their renditions of their own AMT systems, from the E-Clutch to the Y-AMT, and although they have different nomenclatures, they are more or less similar. KTM though likes to do things a little bit  differently. So, they added a park gear to their AMT. Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 CAMPING WITH YOUR BIKE: Something for 2025?

It’s a bit nippy to consider sleeping outdoors right now, but we did much of it in the late summer. Here are a few pointers if you’ve ever considered taking your bike, a tent, and some bits away. We’ve also reviewed a lot of relevant gear and accessories. Just click ‘read online’ from our home page and make sure it’s the November issue of MoreBikes you’re reading. Free, of course.

In our opinion, there are few things better than a night under canvas after a long day exploring a new place on the bike. The good news is that it’s easier than ever to ensure you’re carrying a few creature comforts that’ll make sure you stay fed, watered and well-rested. Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 Once you start living that DIY life, it’s hard to stop. 

I’m not just talking bikes; I’m talking all kinds of DIY. Because really, if you look at things the right way, and with the proper amount of curiosity, us well-seasoned DIYers can turn literally anything into our next project.

Obviously, some will be more fun to accomplish than others. But with every new project you complete, you get that special sense of satisfaction flowing throughout every cell of your body that can only come from having seen it all the way through.

History & Custom

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 Rare and Unrestored: A Barn-Fresh Ducati 750SS Selling at Mecum

A motorcycle like the 1974 Ducati 750SS simply couldn’t be manufactured and sold today, and it’s a small miracle that it even passed in the 1970s. A barely homologated version of Ducati’s Desmo L-twin road racer, the 750SS was finicky, raw and probably illegal for road use in most places with its fiberglass fuel tank,…

Whiteknights Blood Bikes

Whiteknights are proud to publish our statistics for October 2024.
Another busy month with 249 urgent call-outs and over 7800 miles covered by our fleet.
We are currently looking to replace one of our Blood Bikes which was crashed into in a car park.
Please share this posting and encourage others to make a donation to a very worthwhile cause.
Click on the link to our Just Giving page:
Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 15th November 2024

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 Whiteknights South Yorkshire team would like to thank Heretics MCC for kindly raising and donating £500 and to the Angel pub in Clown for their hospitality tonight 👏👏👏👏👏🏍️👍

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 22 November 2024 Whiteknights Yorkshire Blood Bikes have today been meeting at Calderdale Royal Hospital to announce to the public our King’s Award For Voluntay Service. Here the Chairman, Andrew Foster is joined by representatives of Pathology and the Milk Bank.

 


#bloodbikes #KAVS2024

South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership

Have a safe journey home everyone.
Give yourself the best chance of avoiding a collision: safe speed, safe vehicle, safe road behaviour, safe roads (our partners).
Mistakes happen but we can do things to minimise the risk of serious injury.
Have a great weekend. #RoadSafety
 

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

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 Critiquing other instructors is a risky business

[Based on an item in Elevenses]

When driving instructor Ashley Neal posts a YouTube video and I happen to watch, they are generally informative, often  and mostly I find that my analysis of what happened is pretty much in line with his. For example, he heavily criticised another driving instructor in a video entitled:

“The Worst Driving Instructor Attitude I’ve Ever Seen | MY REACTION!” Read more… 

He says that “this Instructor need to rethink her attitude before passing the same mindset to her students.” 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 269th November 2024 Musings on the perception of risk

It’s a funny thing is risk… it’s always there in our lives, whatever we do, to a greater or lesser extent. The odd thing is that whilst sometimes we are very aware of risk and at other times we tend to forget all about it, very often we have a skewed perception of what is actually dangerous and what isn’t. 

Take flying as an example – a lot of people are frightened of flying, but statistically it is very safe. On the other hand driving or riding on the roads is inherently much more dangerous but few of us actually feel particularly nervous about it.

Why is this? Clearly familiarity has a lot to do with it. Most people don’t fly very often, so never really get used to it. There is also the feeling that you are in someone else’s hands and out of control. Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 Four of these five ways won’t help you be seen by drivers

I was reading an article on RideApart entitled “5 Ways To Help You Get Seen By Other Road Users When You’re Riding”. Although it was written eleven months ago, it’s relevant now as we’re deep into autumn, the days are short and often gloomy. So what were the proposed methods?

1 – Wear Bright And/Or Reflective Motorcycle Gear

There’s the first problem. And / Or. Think about it. ‘Bright’ clothing is not the same as ‘reflective’. Hi-vis clothing uses the conversion of UV light to visible wave lengths to ‘glow’ in daylight – since the source of UV light is the sun, that rules it out at night. Retro-reflective kit bounces light back from a source like a headlight which works at night IF you happen to have a headlight pointed at you. Otherwise it doesn’t do anything, and it’s ineffective in daylight. Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 ‘I don’t agree but never mind’ Part 3

Last time out in this mini-series I was talking about how an opinion is a belief or attitude about something that isn’t necessarily based on any specific fact. For example, whether you prefer cats or dogs as a pet is an opinion, and I prefer cats. There’s no way to prove who’s right and who’s wrong, since each opinion is based on our own emotional responses to the different animals. 

But there are times when an opinion is based on something much more substantial, and last week I offered you the example of a a ‘judicial opinion’ which could be offered by a judge in a court case. The judge will explain how the law was interpreted, and how this interpretation could be applied it to the facts of that specific case – that’s what leads to their ‘opinion’ and their ruling on the case. Read more… 

However, there are times when it’s entirely possible for two different opinions to be formed on the same topic, and BOTH can be right. 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 28th November 2024 I’m just putting the finishing touches to my latest book; ‘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 bike and body next to each other in crumpled heaps? It’s the side of motorcycling that no-one likes to admit to, but the fact is of we take a few moment to look at how, where and why we and other riders crash, we can learn a lot about how to avoid making those mistakes for ourselves – or at least, we can avoid repeating them. Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 Bike in right gear, brain in wrong gear

Riding a motorcycle requires more than just physical skills. Riding a motorcycle demands more than just mental alertness. It demands a mindset where our aim is actually to look after ourselves and others – as I’ve said before the Hippocratic Oath “above all, do no harm” applies just as much behind the bars of our bikes as it would on the operating theatre. 

And one of the biggest ‘fails’ when it comes to navigating the roads safely is not just a lack of awareness in in anticipating and responding to potential hazards, it’s a lack of awareness of how OUR actions affect others. Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 the Strange Death of the European Motorcycle Industry?

[Based on yesterday’s in-depth item on Elevenses]

All year, I’ve been reporting the increasingly serious financial issues facing KTM – staff layoffs, R&D shifted to India and China, increased production in China, fire sales of unsold bikes, shutdowns of the production line scheduled for next year. Most recently, the news is that KTM – who claim to be Europe’s biggest motorcycle manufacturer – is seeking bridging finance and accommodations with creditors. 

So with that in mind I was reading an article by Phil West entitled ‘Motorcycle Dealer Closures – What’s Going On?’, with some interested, particularly where he says: Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 The best addition to my bike was hand guards”

I was chatting to my UK-based brother then other night and he was talking about some of the mods he’s made to his bike out in California. Originally hand guards appeared on off-road bikes and the reason was to give the rider a bit of protection from being whipped by branches and the like, and also against flying debris like stones and gravel being kicked up by another rider. They reduce the risk of injury to the hands but they save a lot of pain too – having been hit right on the joint of the middle finger by a stone chip on a newly-surfaced road, I can tell you it hurts, even at 20 mph.

They may also help with a bit of crash protection in the event of a fall, protect fingers and levers from direct impact or crushing.

But even in warm and sunny (mostly Ca. he’s found that the guards on his WR250 trail bike also protect from the weather. As he rides into the mountains, the air gets cooler with altitude and the weather can change too – as the moist sea air rises, it can rain. : Read more… 

Motorcycling Organsiations

IAM RoadSmart

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 11th October 2024 Has it been a while since you passed your Advanced test? 📆
Our Advanced Refresher course allows drivers and riders to brush up on their skills with one of our dedicated Observers, so you can ensure you’re still driving or riding at an Advanced level!
 
 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 IAM RoadSmart issues warning for strong winds and snow from Storm Bert

Richard Gladman, Chief Examiner for IAM RoadSmart, said: “Heavy snow is expected on Saturday, so people living in amber areas where warnings have been issued should consider whether their journey is really necessary; roads will be hard to navigate, and motorists could become stranded. If you really do need to head out in the snow, you can keep yourself and others safe by keeping your distance from other vehicles, accelerating gently, using low revs, and changing to higher gears as quickly as possible. Starting in second gear will help with wheel slip, and use a low gear to control your speed going downhill. Brake early and gently, and avoid harsh braking unless necessary. Take warm clothing, a blanket, a torch, and a fully charged mobile phone, and let someone at your destination know you are coming. Where possible, stay on major routes, which will have been treated.”

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 This Christmas let’s make every journey a safe one!🎁

With the excitement of the festive period around the corner,
the days are darker, the weather is colder, and the roads are
busier. We’re not only spreading joy this festive season
but also the importance of staying safe on roads.

Whether you’re driving home for Christmas, going for the
winter ride, or if you’re rushing to get those last gifts,
we’ve got you covered with present ideasadvice, hints
& tips and stories
 to help you navigate the festive season.

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 6th September 2024

Are you aware of the OAP framework when out riding? 🏍️

Incorporating Observe, Anticipate, Plan, when on the roads, can help educate and upskill riders to ensure safer journeys. Learn more 

National Motorcyclists Council

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 The Government has today announced that it will not change policy, so that universal access for motorcycles to UK bus lanes can be made the default situation. Decisions on bus lane access for motorcycles will remain at local level with local authorities.

A consultation by the Department for Transport (DfT) which was conducted between March and July this year, sought the views of the public and local authorities on granting motorcyclists default access to all bus lanes. Over 14,000 responses were received and of these, only 178 people disagreed with the statement, ‘If it is safe to do so, motorcycles should be allowed to access bus lanes by default’. Although responses from local authorities were low in number, over half who responded agreed that there are benefits in allowing motorcycles to use bus lanes and it is likely that the low response rate was due to non-responding authorities having no clear concerns about the measure. Read more… 

FEMA

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 15th November 2024 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

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 King of the Baggers – Harley-Davidson’s race series for fully-equipped touring Harleys – could be coming to Europe after the company signed an agreement with Dorna, organiser of MotoGP.
Bagger racing (somebody had to say it…) first appeared in 2020 and has been a huge success in the US as part of MotoAmerica series, with the touring bike rounds acting as support races. The sight of big twin Harleys, battling it out on track, complete with fairings and panniers, is certainly a spectacle. Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 Watsonian-Squire, the British sidecar manufacturer, unveiled a new outfit at Motorcycle Live with a very special feature – a low price of just £7,999. It’ll even be available for a limited offer at £7,499, a £500 saving. Watsonian sidecars normally cost £5-7,000, just for the chair, so this complete, ready-to-ride outfit looks like a bargain. Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 The Government has today announced that there will be no change in policy to allow universal access for motorcycles to UK bus lanes. Decisions on bus lane access for motorcycles will remain at local level with local authorities.

Paul Morgan CBE BMF’s Government Relations Executive said:

” This is a missed opportunity to significantly improve the safety of motorcyclists across the UK’s road network.

The BMF will now consider the Government’s decision in consultation with our key partner the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC), and in liaison with other motorcycling groups, to formulate a detailed response to the Government’s decision.” 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. 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 We would like as many young riders aged 16 to 24 years riding machines of 125cc or less to complete the survey asap and have a chance to win a brand new SHARP accredited motorcycle helmet of your choice.

NYRF are totally focussed on young motorcyclists, and we want to hear from you and learn all about you as a young rider.

Whether you are a leisure rider, use a bike to commute to college, uni or work, work in the GIG economy or ride out as family or friend group, we need you to complete the survey and that will really help us, help you, in the future as a rider.

We know we all get ‘survey fatigue’ from filling feedback in, but this survey covers all areas of being a motorcyclist so training, wearing PPE, how you feel about riding, what ideas might help you going forward as a rider and much more. Read more… 

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - Weekly newsletter 29th November 2024 Road Safety Week is our biggest annual road safety campaign. This year, we have put road victims at the heart of Road Safety Week. We want to raise awareness of the devastating toll of road crashes, and celebrate the work of the incredible people who support families after a road death or serious injury. Read on to find out more about how you can get involved and sign up to take part. 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.

Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists - merchandise

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Clothing can be ordered online direct from:

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Male & Female fittings
£ 15
00
  • order direct from APrint
Great Value

T-Shirt

Male & Female fittings
£ 12
00
  • order direct from APrint
Bargain

SAM
Badge

One size fits all
£ 3
00
  • Contact Membership
    Secretary

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