We have a WINNER! The featured image this week is ‘Scotland Day Two’ by Steve Harper. A superb image from a very talented SAM member. The full gallery of entries is shown below. Thank you to all those SAM members who supported the event.
It’s been one of those weeks where the motorcycling world feels both energised and under pressure — a reminder of how much this community gives, and how much it deserves in return.
Across the UK, many riders are still processing the Government’s decision to end the Plug‑in Motorcycle Grant. The figures are stark: the loss of £50 million in market value, thousands fewer electric bikes on the road by 2030, and a real risk that young riders — the very people we should be encouraging — will find their choices shrinking just when the rest of transport is opening up. It’s hard not to feel that motorcycling is being treated as an afterthought, even as it offers cleaner, cheaper, more space‑efficient mobility. When essential safety kit is taxed and training remains taxed and expensive, it’s fair to say the policy direction doesn’t match the rhetoric of fairness or inclusivity.
And yet, the industry itself continues to show resilience and ambition. Royal Enfield’s rise to third place in global brand rankings is no accident — it’s the result of years of steady, rider‑focused growth. Honda’s new Turkish factory strengthens its global footprint at a time when stability matters. New models keep coming too: Suzuki’s SV‑7GX, Harley‑Davidson’s Sprint and revived Sportster 883, KTM’s limited‑run Rally Replica, and Voge’s feature‑packed R125S for new riders. These aren’t just products, they’re signals of confidence. Whilst other global motorcycle markets are developing and expanding, the UK is becoming a laggard in two-wheeled transport.
Technology is moving quickly. Hydrogen engines claiming 60% efficiency and aftermarket suspension systems that bring high‑end control to everyday bikes show that innovation isn’t slowing down — even if policy sometimes does. Hydrogen is still at the research stage, but the technology could be be promising. We just have to find enough cheap hydrogen to service demand.
The most powerful moment, this week, came from outside the showroom. Sylvain Guintoli running the London Marathon in full leathers — raising over £141,500 for charity, an incredible achievement — is a reminder of who we are. Determined. Community‑minded. Willing to push ourselves for something bigger. The same way that our volunteer Observers do every Saturday, throughout the year, to selflessly help local motorcyclists become advanced, safer, riders.
Motorcycling has always been more than machines. It’s people, purpose and possibility. And weeks like this show why our voice matters — and why it’s worth raising.
The past week in motorcycling has delivered a mix of political tension, industry manoeuvring, new‑model momentum and a few eyebrow‑raising technological breakthroughs — all shaping the landscape riders will face through 2026 and beyond.
The most consequential political development remains the industry‑wide alarm over the UK Government’s decision to let the Plug‑in Motorcycle Grant (PiMG) expire on 5 April. Fresh analysis, commissioned by the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), warns the move could strip £50 million from the electric motorcycle market and result in 6,500 fewer zero‑emission bikes sold by 2030, equivalent to losing two and a half years of current sales. The MCIA‑led coalition — spanning manufacturers, retailers, logistics operators and safety groups — has urged ministers to avoid a “policy cliff edge”, citing previous drops of 38.6% and 39.2% in registrations after earlier cuts to support schemes. For young riders and commuters, this signals a likely slowdown in affordable electric options just as the wider transport sector accelerates its transition. By failing to help develop ‘clean technology’, current UK Government policy , stifles UK innovation. Also, by taxing essential personal protection and training It shows favouritism to other, more polluting, transport technologies. It removes transport choice, particularly for younger people and harms economic growth. All these actions directly counter their public statements on fair treatment and inclusivity for all citizens.
On the industry front, Royal Enfield continues its remarkable global rise, securing third place in Brand Finance’s latest automotive rankings — ahead of several major car manufacturers — thanks to booming international sales and expanding market reach. Meanwhile, Honda has opened a new motorcycle factory in Turkey, marking its 38th motorcycle plant worldwide, strengthening its production footprint across Europe and Asia.
New‑model activity has been relentless. Suzuki has unveiled the SV‑7GX, a crossover machine blending its Euro5+ V‑twin with TFT tech, rider aids and aggressive pricing aimed squarely at younger riders seeking modern capability without premium‑brand costs. Harley‑Davidson has confirmed two new models — the Sprint and a return‑to‑roots Sportster 883 — signalling a strategic pivot back toward heritage‑driven, accessible machines after years of mixed reception to its more experimental platforms.
In the performance and off‑road world, KTM has revealed the 2027 450 Rally Replica, limited to just over 100 units worldwide and priced above £33,000, bringing Dakar‑grade engineering directly to private customers from July 2026. At the other end of the spectrum, Voge’s new R125S has landed in European dealerships, offering traction control, a built‑in 1080p dashcam and Bluetooth LCD at a price that undercuts Japanese rivals in the 125cc segment — a compelling proposition for new licence holders.
Technology headlines this week include a breakthrough from Germany’s Otto‑von‑Guericke University, where researchers claim a hydrogen‑fuelled “loop engine” capable of over 60% efficiency, far exceeding conventional combustion benchmarks and raising fresh questions about hydrogen’s long‑term viability in motorcycles. Meanwhile, a new aftermarket gadget promises to bring electronic Öhlins suspension control to almost any bike without factory integration — a notable step in democratising high‑end chassis tech.
Community and culture also made headlines. World Endurance racer Sylvain Guintoli completed the London Marathon in full leathers, raising over £141,500 for the PASIC cancer charity — a feat blending athletic grit with motorcycling spirit. Such challenges remind riders and the public that, despite any prejudice and biases held, motorcycling is embedded in the community and has an essential role in the UK today. Perhaps UK politicians should also hear the message and act accordingly.
Overall, the week reflects a sector balancing innovation with uncertainty: political headwinds for electric mobility, strong global growth from established brands, and a steady stream of new machines aimed at both entry‑level and specialist riders.
Congratulations to Craig Mercer on passing the IAM Advanced Rider Test. The SAM Committee also thanks volunteer Observer John Foster for the training, support and guidance he provided.
Advanced riders are safer road users, ride longer, rider further, meet more people and enjoy a healthier, happier life!
Fill it in, keep it updated, when needed just hand it over to health care staff.
No delay, no sharing of data with private health companies, it’s YOURS, keep it safe!
7.30pm Treeton Miners Welfare Club
Arundel Road
Treeton
Rotherham S60 5PW
7.30pm start for meeting at 8pm. Gives you time to catch up on what you’ve missed!
SAM Committee Meeting
30th April 2026
Online Zoom Meeting
Details to be circulated
So there you are, on a narrow country lane, when the vehicle ahead goes into reverse…
What’s your first instinct? Sound the horn? Paddle backwards?
Or do you drop a rev bomb?
Well, the rev bomb didn’t work! Better luck next time… !
The MCIA’s real concern on non-compliant e-bikes
You have been living under a rock if you haven’t noticed the huge growth in the use of non-compliant electric motorcycles and illegally modified e-cycles being used on public roads minus registration, licensing, or insurance, and that their use is often connected with criminal activity – something I think most of us would be aware of without the industry mouthpiece having to tell us. Much the same applies with e-stepscooters. Read more
When Teaching Hook Becomes Resistance Trigger
Every rider coach knows the value of a good teaching hook — a sharp, memorable idea that helps makes a concept stick. “Look where you want to go” when turning. “Slow in, Cautiously round, Fast out” for setting speed into corners. My own “Settle — Squeeze — Ease” for progressive braking. One of my favourites is “Fast Riders have Slow Hands”. That’s Freddie Spencer talking about smooth control inputs. These hooks should work because they compress something that could be seem complex into something that’s graspable and usable. And in fact, when a hook aligns with a rider’s intuition, it frequently creates a moment of recognition. It can even feel like a ‘lightbulb moment’ when the switch from vague awareness to understanding is a profound change. Read more
If fuel runs short, can we reduce fuel consumption?
[We’re taking a quick break from the ‘Biker Boobytrap’ series for a topical tip.]
The latest news from the Strait of Hormuz is that they remain closed, and Trump seems in no hurry for find a solution with Iran that would unlock Iran’s hold on the strait, which has blocked passage for 20 per cent of the world’s oil and gas supplies and pushed up energy prices. Right now, the UK government is reviewing fuel rationing plans as a precaution, but no official rationing has been implemented yet and there are no shortages at filling stations. Read more
Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists – What you should know!Turn Your Brand Into a Lifesaver:
Put your advert here.
Every rider knows that the difference between a close call and a tragedy often comes down to knowledge, skill and awareness. By securing this advertising space, your business isn’t just reaching a dedicated audience—it’s actively helping to fund the Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists (SAM).
Every penny of the proceeds goes directly toward advanced rider training and safety initiatives. You’ll be helping motorcyclists learn advanced riding skills, stay upright and return home safely. It’s a rare opportunity to boost your brand’s visibility while championing a life-saving cause. Let’s make the roads safer, one mile at a time.
Partner with us today.
The SAM charity is an Associate Group of IAM RoadSmart. This means that our highly skilled and experienced volunteer Observers, are trained to deliver the nationally recognised, quality assured, advanced rider training curriculum.
IAM RoadSmart is the UK’s leading road safety charity. We are recognised and trusted by the UK Government, insurance companies and other road safety organisations. We enable and monitor IAM Groups to deliver our quality assured, nationally recognised, advanced rider and driver training. Our role is simple, yet vital – to make journeys safer for everyone who uses the road.
34SP.com supports our charity with FREE web hosting. Over many years they have consistently provided WordPress updating, advice on hosting management and technical advice. The company makes ongoing efforts to reduce the digital carbon footprint, noting that high web traffic significantly impacts emissions. To combat this, their Manchester data centre utilizes renewable energy and follows circular IT practices through hardware recycling.Beyond infrastructure, they invest in ancient woodland restoration and global climate projects via Ecologi. These efforts are independently verified by The Green Web Foundation, aiding clients’ ESG reporting. Furthermore, the company integrates social sustainability as a Living Wage employer, blending environmental conservation with ethical local business practices to provide greener hosting solutions.
YOUR registered charity can benefit from FREE web hosting too!
“Great bunch of people. Improved my riding skills to another level. Their training is very much based on keeping the rider safe” Stephen
Added to our training work we train NHS Blood Bikers, support other charities, promote motorcycling as a cost-effective, eco-friendly urban transport solution. We also provide public education on the role of motorcycling in our community. Meet us, 9am any Saturday at Meadowhall Retail Park, Attercliffe Road, Sheffield S9 2YZ. You can help us by advertising your services in our newsletter, sponsoring young riders and sharing this newsletter. Sponsors/advertisers should email: sam-editor@iam-sheffield.bike with ‘Sponsorship’ or ‘Advertiser’ in the subject line. Thank you for your support.
© 2026 Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists. All rights reserved. All content in this newsletter, including text, graphics, and images, is protected by UK copyright law. We gratefully acknowledge the copyright of original publishers and creators for any third-party materials featured. All such materials are used with implied permission, from online publicly shareable URLs, or under fair dealing rules on information, education and public interest. Any such content is used solely for our purposes to educate and inform our readers. Material from other providers is not not used for any commercial purpose. All URLs link directly to copyright holders. The correctness and truthfulness of all such content is the sole responsibility of those providers No part of this publication may be reproduced or shared without prior written consent from the respective copyright holders.Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists is a registered charity in England and Wales (No. 1089671).
Riding a motorcycle comes with risks. In an accident, motorcyclists’ injuries are likely to be more serious than those of other road users. To reduce these risks, the Biker I.C.E. (In Case of Emergency) Card is a simple but essential tool for riders. It’s easy to use and convenient to carry. It can be folded to fit in your wallet and handed to anyone who needs it, not just accident responders.
The Biker I.C.E. Card contains all necessary information. It has contact information, important health, medical and doctor’s details, a list of medications and your doctor’s contact. If you’re in an accident, emergency services can use the card to quickly understand your health and medical needs t0 provide you with the best care possible.
Just fill in your email address below. We will keep you updated of any design changes. The card is given as FREE public service that you can use and share as many times as you like. You simply add details like your NHS or travel insurance numbers, as these can help emergency responders access your healthcare records or handle costs when travelling abroad.
Sheffield Advanced Motorcyclists, well known for our quality assured advanced rider training, support the use of this card. It can be a critical safety tool. While training improves road safety, the card ensures you get the right help should things go wrong.
Download your Biker I.C.E. Card NOW, for safer rides and peace of mind!
![69e74c40d84f1[1]](https://iam-sheffield.bike/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/69e74c40d84f11-1024x700.jpg)
