It might have been wall-to-wall rain last Saturday, but some SAM members won’t let anything stop the wheels going round. Last week though there was a lot of praise, from SAM members, for the unusually mild days when they could visit the coast for a meal at one of their favourite restaurants. When your editor was learning to ride, late in the year, there wasn’t a day when I didn’t return home sodden or frozen! The challenge of learning to ride was not going to be wasted.

Our resident shopper has done a superb job in getting bags and bags of raffle prizes for the SAM Christmas Party. All now safely stored in the spare bedroom. Just a few bottles of spirits to buy and the task will be finished. 

The bad weather seems to have brought out the worst behaviour of drivers of larger vehicles. Particularly those driving SUVs. When  travelling through local flooded areas, SUVs in particular, have been  reported on social media as driving close to the car in front, being impatient about letting oncoming traffic pass before entering a flood and just plain selfish about soaking pedestrians. Drivers seem to forget this is a serious offence and video surveillance is everywhere. We’ve all got to travel in wet weather, so if you are in a big vehicle, be patient, take extra care, show respect and take account of the needs of other road users. Thank you.

Helite released a video that every rider should watch. It shows the importance or ALWAYS wearing the motorcycle gear and the additional protection offered by Air Vests. They are a common item amongst SAM members. Please share to help a friend ride safer too. Thank you.

There is a new, easily adjustable, motorcycle mirror from RAM. Seeing what is behind you is essential. We bring you more articles on rider safety. Understanding and avoiding the ‘Stop & Drop’ problem – we’ve all done it!  Why do we prefer over-simplified explanations to complex riding risks, e.g. ‘drivers don’t see motorcycles’. Understanding why we make these ‘thinking errors’ and taking another look at your thinking is a great way to improve your riding. When the weather gods stop the riding, it’s time to sort the bike. One SAM member had great fun stripping and servicing a master brake cylinder. There’s so much talent in SAM!

The wider world of motorcycling has been marked by industry innovation, political developments, and energetic marketing designed to attract a younger generation of riders. Leading manufacturers like BMW, KTM, and Yamaha have launched bikes with automatic gearboxes in 2025, aiming to make riding more accessible to beginners who may be put off by manual transmissions. This shift reflects a wider trend towards inclusivity, with Harley-Davidson also preparing affordable entry-level cruisers specifically targeted at new riders.

Politically, UK riders continue to face disappointment as the Labour government declined to introduce new support for motorcycling, delegated bus lane access to Local Authorities and refusing to encourage wider motorcycle use. In response, MAG ( Motorcycle Action Group) has stepped up efforts to campaign for licensing reform and fairer access, spotlighting issues that matter to young people seeking affordable and practical transport. If the UK Government thinks the motorcycling community will keep quiet, it is very much mistaken.

Marketing campaigns have grown more engaging, with dealerships focusing on social media flash sales and “New Year, New Ride” events. These are designed to attract younger riders with discounts, gear bundles, and digital community events—especially highlighting fuel-efficient and electric bikes. The sector is putting a bigger spotlight on environmental issues, with lobbying for increased grant support for electric motorcycles to help level the playing field for zero-emission options.

Major events, such as the EICMA show, have driven excitement by revealing new products and innovations, underlining the industry’s ongoing evolution and the global community’s enthusiasm for motorcycles. For young riders in particular, the last week has shown that the industry is innovating and adapting—making two wheels ever more appealing as a modern lifestyle and transport choice.​

Whatever you are doing this week, ride safe and happy reading; and, fill in the SAM Christmas Party Booking form – just to make sure you will get fed!!