“Back brake? Never use it…” That’s a comment I heard recently when taking an experienced rider out for an Enhanced Rider Scheme assessment, and it got me thinking. So many riders learnt to ride before the introduction of the current 2-part practical test with the separate module-1 and its focus on slow-speed riding control, that… Continue reading “Back brake? … never use it!”
Category: Riding Tips & Techniques
Winter Riding Tips
As the warmth of one of the best summers for years becomes a fading memory, and the cold, wet, windy weather we are more used to at this time of year becomes the norm, it’s time to remind ourselves of some basic Winter Riding advice. The tips below have been pulled together from many years… Continue reading Winter Riding Tips
Filtering – the “elephant in the room”
As a motorcyclist I benefit from the superior manoeuvrability of my bike and the ability to avoid being stuck in traffic for hours on end. I can perform a manoeuvre known as “filtering”, which is where I travel in between lines of queueing or slow-moving traffic. But when it comes to teaching people to ride,… Continue reading Filtering – the “elephant in the room”
A Fighter Pilot’s Guide to Surviving on the Roads
As part of our “Improve Your Road Riding Skills” level 1 course we look at the System of Motorcycle Control that is at the heart of advanced riding. The first phase of this system is concerned with Information – the taking, using and giving of information to help form a riding plan. When researching ways… Continue reading A Fighter Pilot’s Guide to Surviving on the Roads
Summer Rain, Slippery Roads
With the long period of half-decent weather bringing many more bikes out onto the roads, it’s probably time to remind riders of the dangers posed by summer rain. By danger, I’m not referring to the need to carry waterproofs, or the dangers of soggy underwear after being caught without, I’m referring to what happens to… Continue reading Summer Rain, Slippery Roads
Keep it Simple!
Recently I had a discussion with one of our trainees whilst helping him through his Compulsory Basic Training, or CBT as it’s more commonly known. We had just completed part of the 2-hour road ride and were stopped at the roadside discussing how things had been going. He told me he was finding if very… Continue reading Keep it Simple!
Pre-Flight Checks?
Imagine the following scenario. You are about to fly off on a much-needed holiday to the sun. You have boarded the plane, stowed your luggage in the overhead bin, fastened your seatbelt and started to flick through the in-flight manual looking for the list of the films that will be playing. Over the loudspeaker comes… Continue reading Pre-Flight Checks?