Birmingham Advanced Motorcyclists
Newsletter
www.b-a-m.org.uk
August 2013
Inside this issue:
BAM Bash – REGISTER NOW!
Scotland Tour Report
Full Member’s Run Report
Snetterton Race Report
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Birmingham Advanced Motorcyclists
Chairman’s Bit
What a glorious sunny July,
I hope your all enjoying the
tropical sunshine; It certainly
makes a change from riding
in the rain and snow, although
the excuses of ‘it’s too hot to
come out on the bike’ makes
me smile.
My first announcement is the
departure of Neil Murray from
the group. Neil has been an
active BAM member for many years, joining in 2005. He
was the observer training coordinator on the committee
prior to his departure. Neil is off to sunnier pastures down
south where he has found a nice little retirement home
(with a bar), I’m sure our loss is to the gain of the Plymouth
IAM group. Our very best wishes mate, thanks for all your
work with BAM.
Another busy few months at BAM behind the scenes; we
are in the final stages of preparing for our premier event,
the BAM Bash on the 15th Sept for our associates.
Associates/Observers please make sure you register for
this event asap by contacting Roy Aston; we only have
limited spaces and this year we are expecting a full house.
This is followed by the Three Ashes Competition (28th
Sept) for the IAM Region 3 groups. We are hoping for a
good result in the Three Ashes Competition with our top
associates (chosen from the BAM Bash) and full members
(chosen by the training team) to represent the club. Good
luck to all of you in the competitions.
This month the usual Saturday & Sunday Observed runs
continue, with the mid-week Wednesday Observed runs.
We have had some impressive numbers for these runs so
my thanks for your support, it proves were doing things
right at BAM and your enjoying the ride-outs and social
get-togethers.
The next full member’s run is on the 18th August, followed
by the 29th September. These runs/events are a great
chance to get out and meet other group members, so
please try to support these runs where possible.
Don’t forget to regularly check the website www.b-a-m.
org.uk and join the forum for the latest updates. We are
currently looking at the forum to improve its functionality,
but please continue to use it as a means of communication
within the group.
As always please contact me if you have any questions or
comments.
Safe Riding
Mark Weaver
Chairman
Email: [email protected]
Speakers Corner
Forthcoming Guest Speakers
August - Helite UK - www.helite-motorcycle-airbagjackets.co.uk
Should be interesting to see the safety protection systems they produce.
September - SorryMate.Com
They are going to explain the legal side of insurance and how they can help you. They also sponsor our own Colin
Norris (see race report in this issue).
October - TBA
November - IAM Surety - www.adelaideinsurance.com
Insurance explained all the way from Belfast.
December – TTC - www.ttc-uk.com
A real life look behind alcoholic drink and its effects on people.
If you have any reasonable requests or ideas for guest speakers please email our Guest Speaker Organiser, Andy
Gordon at [email protected]
The Views Expressed in Articles are not always those of BAM or the IAM Group No 3203 Registered Charity No 1057912
The Complaints, Grievance and Disciplinary Procedure can be obtained by contacting any committee member
1
2
Birmingham Advanced Motorcyclists
Editor’s Section . . .
This great weather recently
has made riding an absolute
pleasure and I’ve really
enjoyed getting out on the
club observed runs and
doing some training with
associates who are really
keen to learn advanced
techniques and achieve
recognition for their riding
skills by passing their
advanced test.
BAM Bash - if you are currently an associate or have
recently passed your advanced test I can’t encourage
you strongly enough to take part in the BAM Bash on
Sunday 15th September. It costs you absolutely nothing
to enter and you stand the chance of winning some
great prizes with the top prize worth £139!!
If you ask any previous entrants and you find that
they were all apprehensive about taking part however
they fully enjoyed the day, revelled on the competitive
element and also improved their skills at the same time
– so please don’t delay and register by contacting Roy
Aston – see opposite for more details.
Have you got a favourite road? If you have why not
drop me a line with details and we’ll publish them in
forthcoming newsletters.
Don’t forget to send me your articles in an email or
Word document to my email address below.
Adrian Court
Editor + Vice Chairman
Email: [email protected]
BAM Bash
Sunday 15th September 2013
RE DON’
GIS T D
TE ELA
Once again, the venue for this year’s
RN Y
BAM Bash will be Sutton Coldfield
OW
Fire Station. As in previous years, we will
stick with the tried and tested format of skills
!
3
challenges. Entrants will have the opportunity to
demonstrate their knowledge of Roadcraft, their slow
riding prowess, their ability to spot machine faults and
their on-road riding skills.
Last years winner – John Hanson
The competition is open to all current Associates and
anyone who was an Associate on March 1st 2013, but
who has subsequently passed their test and become a full
member.
Associates will have received a letter entering you into
the BAM Bash and you should not feel daunted by the
prospect of competing with other members, or feel that they don’t have a chance because there are better riders in
the club. The tests are set to give all entrants a fair chance and there have been a number of ‘surprise’ winners in
previous years.
The winner will receive the Steve Mann trophy and a full refund of their Skills for Life fee. We always have quite a
number of runner-up prizes so no-one goes home empty handed.
Thinking About becoming a BAM Observer?
The day will start at around 10am with a finish at about 3pm a barbecue will be laid on as well as hot and cold
drinks. Joining instructions will be sent out a little nearer the day.
September Club Night
Anyone who wants to take part or know more can get details either from their Observer or from me – just give me
a call on 07740 378 244 or drop me a mail – [email protected]
Observers – please encourage your Associates to enter and start coaching them now. There’s been a lot of
competition amongst Observers for the kudos of having coached a BB winner – Glenn Grove, Steve Beggan, Jason
Taylor and Lester Phelps have most recent bragging rights so let’s see if anyone can take top spot from them.
Want to help others to pass their advanced motorcycle
test? Think you’ve got what it takes to become a BAM
Observer?
We’re holding a “Become a BAM Observer”
session during the first half of the club night at
Tally-Ho on September 4th.
This session is open to all full and associate members
of BAM who are thinking about becoming a BAM
Observer in the future.
If anyone wants to register just drop Roy a line at the above address
Hear about the process required to qualify as an
Observer and what’s expected of you once you do.
There will be a short presentation, followed by an
open forum to discuss any questions you may have.
It’s also your chance to meet and chat with other BAM
Observers.
So if you’re thinking about putting something back into
the club, come along and see what it’s all about.
Yo You
ur co
Sk uld
Fe ills W
e B fo IN
ac r Li
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4
Scotland Tour
Scotland Tour
Saturday 6th July to Sunday 14th July
Day 1
Day 2
Fine weather greeted us for our first day, and as it
turned out, would stay with us for the whole trip.
The morning began with a leisurely breakfast after the
previous day’s lengthy journey from home to our first
stay at the Victoria Hotel, Rothesay on the isle of Bute.
Andy arrived at mine at 7am on his new “Dora, the
(Triumph) Explorer”, ready for our ride up to the
meeting point at Stafford Services.
We met up with Bob Watson on the M6 as we
approached the services, and I instantly realised
I’d over-packed when I saw the shoe-box sized bag
strapped to the back of his bike. D’oh!
Andy introduced me to everyone, including Richard
and his wife Sarah (Sarah, his daughter, spent the
remainder of the trip figuring whether she looks old or
Richard looks really young). A quick cuppa and then
it was time to hit the M6. The M6 was uneventful
barring Richard and Bob being the victims of a stealth
bombing attack from the local pigeons.
our group needed adjustment and proceeded to make
roadside alterations to the bike resulting in a potential
delay in reaching our second ferry crossing of the day
but promised ice creams when we next stopped!!!!
As usual the talk was of the previous day’s journey
from home and our first night in Scotland and the
sleeping arrangements of some of the crew and
the use of “Gaffer Tape” in some instances, but as
discretion is a middle name we will say no more.
During the consumption of the wholesome breakfasts,
it became obvious some of the group (Andy Pratt)
were beginning to let their hair down and taking on
the antics of various characters from Gerry Anderson’s
inventive mind and which would show regularly during
the period of the tour.
After sorting our hotel bills and packing, we recover
the bikes from the clothes drying area of the rear
of the hotel and make our way in glorious sunshine
towards the short ferry crossing only to find the
leading group already halfway across the loch.
As last man and with a small group, we wait patiently
for the ferry to return and regroup with the others on
the mainland at Colintraine soon to depart from the
company of the coach party admiring our bikes at the
ferry terminal.
We recommenced our journey towards Tighnabruaich
and the Argyles “Secret Valley Coast” viewing point
where we meet a couple of cyclists an compare our
relatively leisurely journeys against their demanding
planned route and their obvious discomforts due to the
high temperatures.
Quentin’s route ensured we wrapped up the M6 with
a much more interesting A713 before lunch at Ken
Bridge, where we met up with Claire and Alan. Claire
promptly announced her beaver was out of bounds
to all - this of course being the road-trip mascot
cuddly toy. After lunch we headed on to the ferry for
our final destination for the day – the Isle of Bute.
The hotel was lovely but parking for the night was a
unique experience, and could only be described as
parking in a laundrette – given the bikes were parked
up amongst the hotel’s washing.
A long but great start to a fantastic trip!
Nigel Kibble
During this short scheduled stop, one of our sharp
eyed riders decided the newly fitted chain of one of
After a decidedly spirited
ride towards Portavadie
and seeing the ferry sailing
towards the horizon, we
settled in glorious sunshine
at the Portavadie Marine
Lodge for teas, ice creams
and strawberries and cream
and to await the next ferry.
After about half an hour or so
we boarded the ferry where
Andy’s puppet antics again
resurrected themselves to the
amusement of those that had
noticed his apparent fetish
for being tied up!
Before long we had reached
our destination at Tarbert
where a two day seafood
celebration was in full flow
5
but eager to reach our final destination and to make
up for the unscheduled earlier delays, we pushed on
along the A83 along the shores of Loch Fyne taking in
the magnificent views heading steadily northwards and
departing along single track roads to reach our next
destination for our scheduled lunch stop at Crinan.
When we arrived we were rewarded with the
magnificent views and of seagoing ships and yachts
entering and leaving the canal which links Loch Fyne
with the Sound of Jura but is an amazing sight when
the vessels appear to be travelling parallel with the
local roads along its route.
After a great lunch of local produce we set off again
only to be interrupted by the sight of a ship travelling
along the canal and requiring the swing bridge to
be opened and causing a group of motorists and
ourselves to wait until its passing and allowing us
access to the single track roads (B8025) which we
were beginning to take as normal with their passing
places scattered at regular intervals allowing progress
to be made safely.
As we reached Oban the group became somewhat
disjointed and there were rumours of “Shopping” by
some of us, but with a keen eye and the second man
drop system working successfully we negotiated the
traffic and continued our journey towards Fort William
and our third ferry of the day to the Ardnamurchan
Peninsula.
We soon crossed the short distance to Corran and
began what we would learn would
be a trip of about 40 miles of
mainly deserted single track roads
decreasingly narrowing and scattered
with helpings of loose gravel.
Following the coast before rising
inland over the local terrain and
before descending to the edges of
the Fiunary Forest and returning to
the coast road we passed through
small villages and hamlets with
occasional small holiday sites located
adjacent to the beautiful beaches
alongside the road.
As we travelled it was impossible
to not appreciate the outstanding
scenery and we eventually reached
our final destination or the Kilchoan
House Hotel and our resting place for
this night.
6
Scotland Tour
We had been primed today’s route would the most
diverse we were to expect and that had certainly been
the case.
We all soon settled in for the usual refreshments’
the hotel had to offer before our evening meals of
outstandingly presented local foods and the usual
discussions regarding the location of the hotel, the
great days travel experiences and the plans for the
next days trip to Mull and Tobermory but that’s
another story.!!
Bob Hatfield
Day 3
A good nights sleep after yesterday's long day. After
last nights revelation of Richard Morris announcing "I
can hear you .." through the bathroom
wall the hotel does remind me a little of
Faulty Towers ! And the only thing that’s
worse than being heard in the bathroom
by your neighbours in the next bathroom
is Quentin Davis saying "I can see you"
through tissue paper walls, OK . . . Bates
Motel!
Another sweltering morning - I was
a little excited as I was going to see
Toberone, land of pretty houses and
chocolate. It was so hot as we waited for
the ferry across incredible blue waters
to the Isle of Mull, a place that brings
a whole new meaning to single track
roads. It was then that I was reminded
we were going to Tobermory - and there
was no chocolate!!
The smell of skin so soft was strong as we rolled
off the ferry and into the town and spontaneously
combusted under the heat. But there it was a vision –
shops. a silver smiths, pearls, more pearls and stock
up on sweeties. Oh yeah - Tobermory - shopping was
done, photos taken, pretty houses in pretty colours,
pearls bought - I'm a woman, what can I say, it had to
be done. And a famous person! But I can't remember
his name!
And off we went, more single track roads, and lots
and lots of gravel. The scenery was spectacular. I was
even more surprised when we came to Calgary Beach
with its lone white sands. Did I hear Bob Hatfield
curse when someone nicked his parking space - no
not Bob! I think this may have been when I noticed for
the first time Nigel was starting to squeak when he
Scotland Tour
walked - Tin Man - it had to be the heat! It was such
a lovely day watching the "kids" play in the sand - Bob
and Claire improvising with a bottle of water to play
catch - then off we went again.
More gravel, more single track roads, some with grass
in them too just to keep us on our toes and more
spectacular scenery. After a lovely stop in Salam at
the coffee shop we headed back to the ferry for home
and drinkies. G & T in the picturesque hotel garden,
absolutely amazing weather, and frying with the skin
so soft. But it really is working!! No Midge bites, it’s
either the skin so soft or midges are so attracted
to Nigel they are leavening us alone! We were then
joined by Mr Keepax in the late afternoon sun, where
he dropped his trousers and joined us, our group was
complete.
Our evening meal was very very good, and we were all
tucked up in bed by at least . . dark. Claire, Sarah and
I did check the tissue paper walls for hidden Quentin
spy holes before we slept!
Although this was only day 3, this really was proving
to be an amazing experience. By the end of the
week, I know it to be the best holiday I've ever had.
Organisation was superb, I know Quentin and Gill put
a lot of time into this trip, but it shows. I keep saying
words like lovely and amazing, but it was, everything
- great roads, great scenery, great company, great
hotels and weather we could have only dreamed
about, a holiday we will all be talking about for many
years to come.
Carrie Attwood
Day Four
Woke up to a misty morning after our second night
at the Ardnamurchan Hotel. We had a bit of a delay
while most of the group visited the lighthouse on
Ardnamurchan Point, the most westerly point of
mainland Britain having decided that it wouldn’t be
right to leave the area without doing so. At the same
time Bob W was staying close to the hotel but busying
himself whizzing up and down to the ferry to see if
Bob H’s bike key had been found/handed in as he
had carelessly gone and lost it on the trip over on
Sunday. The other reason for Bob W not wanting
to stray too far from the Hotel and its conveniences
was a lingering dose of Peruvian Guinea Pig Winter
Virus, a fond reminder of his exotic holiday in South
America the week before this trip. As it happens, our
tour medic was sufficiently worried about Bob W’s
condition (given his advancing years and the frequency
of his sudden unexplained absences over the previous
couple of days) to concoct a potion to address his
reduced electrolyte levels. This was subsequently
knocked off the table by Mrs. K before he got to drink
it. Mortified by her actions she decided to replace said
medication but not knowing the proportions of the
original medically based concoction made up her own.
This unfortunately contained about ten times more
salt than Claire’s original, but it seemed to do the trick
after he’d forced it down his neck.
7
seals we pay, if not we don’t pay, for the trip that is.
It has been rumoured that, in the past he has gone
out with inflatable seals to position on rocks when it is
known that there are none in the vicinity. This cannot
of course be verified as accurate. However, we do see
seals, lots of them; some basking on the rocks, some
swimming some with pups, so of course Calum goes
home with his ticket collectors satchel bulging.
Following on is our evening meal and lots of laughs in
the bar afterwards, all in all a great lads holiday so far.
Claire Richards
Day Five
Today is programmed as a trip around Skye which
another hearty full Scottish breakfast sets us up nicely
for. (The Plockton Inn is great for food.) Out to the
bikes for a prompt 10.00 start and yet again no one
was late and we were all mobile by 10.01. I can vouch
for this as we were last out of the car park and the
last man was impatiently revving his engine, to make
a point I think. Strangely this was a morning when,
although we had had wall to wall sunshine to date
and today was no exception it was a bit chilly and my
good lady began to regret not having a fleece handy.
Fortunately it didn’t last long and by the time we had
crossed the bridge onto Skye the perspiration rate was
on the way up.
We duly set of for Plockton, keyless
but also squitterless. The first 30 miles
approx of the journey being along
twisting and bending single track B
roads that Scotland does particularly
well then north on the A861, one of
those twisting and bending single
track A roads that Scotland also does
particularly well. A right turn then, on
to the A830 takes on to Fort William
and beyond, the biking bliss that is the
A82 & A87 towards Skye. After the
castle Eilean Donan, we start looking
for the right turn to Plockton, the
comforts of the Plockton Inn and the
near legendary boat trip with Calum to
see the seals.
The boat trip doesn’t disappoint. The
bar opens as the lines are cast off and a minimum
gap of 18 inches separates us from terra firma. Calum
does his “cabin staff” safety announcement and then
proceeds to explain his charging strategy: If we see
Our route was to take us through Portree and up the
coast to the Quirang Pass (a quick nod to the Old Man
of Storr for good measure) and down to Uig for lunch.
From here we took the A87 to the glorious A850 and
then A863 (biking roads don’t come much better than
8
Scotland Tour
these) to, eventually, a little goat track to the Kylerhea
to Glenelg ferry. This is another of those anachronistic
relics having a turntable mounted on the ferry so
that you ride on, 3 burly blokes spin it around, and
you ride off at the other side. On the way across we
saw a good selection of seals, pity we’d paid Callum
for a boat trip the previous evening to see what look
suspiciously like the very same seals, and we also saw
a beautiful bird which one of the ferry crew told us
was a rather rare sea eagle.
The highlight for me happened on the last leg of the
day. From the ferry another goat track takes you back
to civilisation and the A87. We stopped at a viewpoint
having a wonderful view down onto Loch Duich. Many
photos were taken and cameras put away. Then an
RAF Hercules transport plane flew up the Loch at
seeming wave top height (we were many hundreds of
feet above it on the mountain) and then banked to the
right to fly out of sight up Glen Shiel. As you would
expect nobody got a picture of that.
The other event at this viewpoint that is worthy of
note is the lack of toilet facilities. However, if you
gotta go you gotta go. One of our lady companions
decided to slip away for personal reasons. Surprise
surprise, she was accidently caught by Richard who
had unknowingly wandered off having a look around
for the same purpose himself. We never did agree who
screeched the loudest when Richard’s path crossed
hers.
After that, an uneventful ride back to Plockton for a
swift half and another great meal.
Alan Keepax
Scotland Tour
Day 6
Bright start as ever – we really could get used to this
new style Scottish weather, sunny and warm, with no
midges! The route takes us across the Bealach Na Ba
(pass of the cattle) to Applecross, a road to admire for
the scenery rather than make serious progress. Really
sharp hairpins, loose gravel, and a view to die for at
the top.
From there, work our way around the coast past
Inverewe gardens, which to our shame nobody even
glanced at. If you’re ever there on a more relaxed
holiday do drop in, they’re phenomenal.
It would also allow you to take breath before setting
out on perhaps Britain’s best stretch of road, the
A832 to Ullapool. Pause for thought in Ullapool, then
on to the close second-best road, the A835 heading
ever north beyond trees, houses or anything else to
prevent good visibility on the bends.
Finally arrive after a long, but thrilling day, to a wellearned Caledonian Best at the Tongue Hotel. Rather
a plush hotel by biker standards (maybe I’m being
unfair, and it’s just by my standards), originally built as
the Duke of Sutherland’s hunting lodge. Lovely dinner
too, slightly spoilt for Alan Boulter by the realisation
that he’d promised to buy his wife a blush-coloured
handbag, and there wasn’t a single handbag shop
in Tongue. Slightly spoilt for Andy too due to the fact
that he hadn’t noticed the speed camera on the way
into Ullapool, until it turned out that somebody had
invented it to see how the conversation went. Highlight
of the day however was definitely Claire’s pudding,
which wobbled in just the right way!
Bob Watson
Day 7
Another fine day in Scotland, woke
up in a fantastic hotel in Tongue with
bright sunshine all around, whilst having
breakfast, Bob Hatfield announced that
he mistook the sound of the local refuse
collection wagon as Bob Watson’s bike,
it must be his age!
Whilst getting ready for the off I
sniggered a little as my room mate Nigel
squeezed into wet base layers-the ones
that he washed in the bath the night
before then left in the hotel boiler room
to dry (they did not). This was the first
9
day of the whole trip where my
heated seat was not switched on
by some prankster! You know who
you are!
Bit of strange day today as we head
both North and South. North to
Dunnett head (the most Northerly
part of the mainland) where saw
Puffins nesting and launching off
the cliff edge, Carrie dished out
some Barley sugars then we headed
to John o Groats (not my favourite
place) but if you have got this far up
you might as well say that you have
been there, and whilst there enjoying
a coffee we saw what can only be
described as a Jimmy Saville looka-like unloading a tipper truck of soil - bizarre. We
took the opportunity to get some photos at the famous
sign post of John o Groats with the whole team and
Quentin’s bike in view. We now head south to our
next hotel destination of Inverary. During this journey
I saw a group of about 8 monkey bikes loaded to the
gunnels with luggage, no doubt doing a Lands end to
J O G, and I have to mention that Claire performed
a perfect overtake on a left hand bend, (she is
proud of it so it is worth a mention). A quick stop at
Drumnadrochit for a cup of tea and Carrie dished out
some Murray mints this time, then the girls started
some smutty talk of how a man’s six pack resembles
a stairway to heaven! They are just pure filth.
After leaving here we found some exceptional scenery
and some of the smoothest twistiest roads I have ever
seen toward Inverary with perfect weather conditions
and virtually no cars to be seen, well lets just say that
we enjoyed the journey. Arrived at Inverary. The hotel
was brilliant oldy worldy charm and served fantastic
food a perfect end to a perfect day.
Day 8 (9 for 2 of us)
After another long evening, awoke – where are we?
Got it, George Hotel in Inverarary, now really on the
downward step home. Last day before we ‘enjoy’ the
final home run down the motorway!!! Need now to get
used to more normal road conditions, and restrictions.
Go down for breakfast and was surprised when Claire
seemed distraught. On questioning she stated that
she was disappointed that she failed to get Quentin’s
trousers off last night. On further investigation
the truth emerged. Late the previous evening, the
outwardly innocent, Mr K flicked water at her, Claire
retaliated with a little more vigour. However Quentin
muscled in on the action and Claire got somewhat
soaked. Quentin could see Claire had revenge on her
face so he spun around and escaped with Claire in
close chase. A dive at the trousers failed and a spritely
Quentin escaped. Never knew Quentin could move
that fast.
On a personal note I would like thank Quentin for all
his hard work which made the trip so effortless and so
enjoyable with breath taking sceneries at every corner,
and a big thanks to all that went on the trip - we had
a great time and i really enjoyed all there company.
I also learned a couple of things too. 1. Avon skin
so soft (good for tackling Scottish Midgies) is also
very flammable . . . don’t ask! 2. It really makes a
mess of Dutch registered Bentley windscreens . . .
mentioning no names all we know he is called (Ogri).
After breakfast Quentin suggested perhaps we may
prefer a more sedate 150’ish mile route and not leave
until 11:00. As an alternative Lord Bob would lead
his ‘hunt pack’ on a more challenging, probably over
Duke’s Pass (+ 50 mile) route. The ‘hunt pack’, Bob,
Nigel and Andy, left at about 10:00am. The rest of
us actually managed a leisurely tour around the town
before departing at 11:00. The remaining 9 then rode
to Hunters Quay, Dunoon, and caught another ferry,
this time to Gourock. Must comment on the Quentin’s
superb timing, the ferry left as soon as we were on
board. (Good luck or timing?)
Andrew Pratt
On embarking the ferry there seemed to be confusion
10
Scotland Tour
with the double white line markings. Many were faded
on one side to give the impression of one side broken,
also in parts there were several solid one side/ broken
other side but these alternated sides almost every
25 metres. Strange but I am assured this did not
catch anyone out. It was clear that whilst the scenery
was still very scenic the road and traffic conditions
getting increasingly busy and regulated.
Unfortunately many road surfaces
were being resurfaced with chippings.
Welcome to the real world!
Lunch was at the Raven Tree,
Ardrossen. Beautiful Views over the
sea to the Isle of Arran. Leaving
we start the slow climb up to a little
village that time has almost forgotten,
Wanlochead. This is 1531 feet (468.08
m) above sea level and is Scotland's
highest village which 2 centuries ago
was a centre housing the miners and
their families, who mined and smelted
the lead ore. Here there is a famous
Museum of Lead Mining as well as
a small gauge railway. Passing the
village we turn right onto the B7040,
a rolling road with fantastic views. If you go that we
beware of the hidden T junction with the B7076.
On arrival at Moffatt we found half the town shut off,
not because we were coming but for the Moffatt Gala.
Very nicely decorated, especially for us! Managed
to use the detour and arrived at the Moffatt Hotel at
about 4pm. Within a few minutes Bob and his ‘hunt
pack’ arrived. I refer to Lord Bob’s ‘hunt pack’ but
Scotland Tour
obviously Bob had lost control. At one stage, Lord
Bob looked around only to realise the pack pair in full
pursuit in the opposite direction. The intercomed pack
pair had sniffed out a Lamborghini and decided that a
chase was on. The pack eventually reunited with Lord
Bob only after they thought that they quenched their
primeval desires and ‘made their point’.
The French couple relocated and the door shut. This
was our last meal of the trip and we all thanked
Quentin (and the stay at home Gill) for organising and
leading yet another excellent tour. After the dinner the
noise outside the hotel beckoned us. It was now dark
and a parade of white gowned people with flaming
torches was marching past the hotel. They were
parading to a green where a large bonfire was to be
lit and musical entertainment with fireworks provided.
Being of Celtic descent I suggested that traditionally
they burnt their old enemies from across the border
at this Gala, I would be safe! All retreated to the hotel
bar. In the early hours of the morning we retired,
looking forward to the next trip.
11
ways.
Just like to add a few personal comments:
I think that this was the best bike trip I've ever been
on and that's saying something. Quent and Gill spend
months organising these trips and it shows. Quent
also manages the group well without appearing to
try and keeps us all laughing with his subtle wit! The
sun shone all week (about 10 degrees C cooler than
down here though - phew!), the roads and scenery
stunning, hotels beer and grub superb and plentiful.
Everyone got on well and we did 1876 miles in 9 days.
Richard and Sarah Morris
Alan Boulter
Day 9 (Last Day Moffat to Home –)
A note from the Tour Organiser
First of all I must clear a common misconception –
although I look and act very young for my age, Sarah
is neither my wife nor my “partner”, she is in fact
my daughter. I know that this will come as a bit of
a surprise to some (Hi Andy – Sarah’s still having
therapy) but there you go!
I don't normally write anything about the tour as I
am biased. However this years trip was exceptional
due mainly to the brilliant weather, a superb bunch of
people and First Class hotels and those that weren't
were made so by the characters there.
Now, report for last day:
The Moffatt House Hotel was superb despite a gravel
drive. I hate gravel and chippings. That evening we
decided to dine in the Conservatory, despite the hotel
staff preferring us to use the bar area. This was only
after we showed them how easy it was to change
the table layout to achieve this. Some amusement
occurred when the conservatory door was flung open
causing a cold draught, much to our discomfort. On
questioning the waiter apparently
complaints had been made that
the door needed to be opened
due to the excessive noise. The
complainants were identified as
a French couple, who had their
Bentley parked in the drive. So
what, we had 9 bikes there. It was
suggested by the waiter that this
couple would only permit the door to
be closed if the noisy group was to
be silent. We did not hear any rowdy
groups. However we were silent for
about 10 seconds, in utter shock
of any potential accusations, and
demanded that since there were 12
of us and only 2 of them the majority
view must prevail.
Short version – Got up, got washed, got fed, got to
say goodbye, got on bike, got on M6, got home.
Longer Version After last nights fiery experiences (the burning of
the Moffat equivalent of the Wicker Man - torch
procession along main street by most of the local
population to light a big fire somewhere nearby) and
Uncle Bob’s flammability testing of “Skin so Soft”
– “that won’t ignite” (Me), “Course it will” (Bob) –
Whooosh – Quents’ camera melts and Bob has a
burning barnet – we need a big brekky and boy did we
get one – extra black pudding and haggis over here
please (feel as though I’ve swallowed a Space Hopper
this week (I know – looks like it as well!)).
During brekky we had a whip round for our esteemed
leader and managed to collect enough to buy him a
pint (not really – good collection and Quent intends to
spend it on two special red roses – one for him and
one for Gill – to remind him of the trip). Then it was
pack up the bikes say our tearful goodbyes and head
of once more into the sunshine and home. We met for
the last time on the M6 services at Stafford (having
avoided getting told off for speeding by the police this
year – result!) had a group hug and went our separate
We did nearly 2000 miles with no rain or clouds in the
sky without mechanical or tyre problems and no fall
outs in the group. I acknowledge Gill and I spend a lot
of hard work organising this tour but then so do other
members of the club and that is why BAM is so good.
On a personal note Gill and I would like to thank you
all for the collection and we will be purchasing some
roses in memory of the tour.
I counted them all out and I counted them all back.
Look out for the dates for Scotland 2014 they will be
coming soon.
Quentin and Gill
1st
1st
3rd
14th
15th
17th
18th
13th
15th
14th
Scottish 12th
Tour
16th
18th
17th
13th
12th
12th
14th
17th
12th
15th
11th
13th
Committee 16th
19.30
11th
Evening Run 10th Evening Run 14th
13th Evening Run 10th Committee 15th Evening Run 12th
18.30 McD
18.30 McD
18.30 Small Heath
18.30 McD
19.30
Small Heath
Small Heath
Scottish Tour
Small Heath
15th
13th Scottish 11th
16th
11th
14th
Tour
17th
22nd
19th
17th
27th
28th
30th
31st
23rd
30th
Evening Run 31st
18.30 McD
Small Heath
30th
3 Moor
Days
30th
26th
27th 3 Moor Days 31st Run 9:00 28th
Run 9:00
McD Small
McD Small Heath
Heath
Full
Run 9:00 30th Run 9:00 28th
29th
McD Small
Members
McD Small
Heath
Run
Heath
30th
29th
29th
28th
29th
31st
27th
26th
30th
29th
Run
30th Run 9:00 27th
10:00 McD
McD Small
Small Heath
Heath
Full
28th
31st
Members
Run
29th
Good Friday
28th
31st
26th
28th
27th
31st
Run 10:00 29th
McD Small
Heath
30th
Boxing Day
26th
25th
27th
30th
Xmas Day
24th
26th
29th
25th
21st
27th Evening Run 24th Evening Run 29th Evening Run 26th Evening Run 24th Evening Run 28th
18.30 McD
18.30 McD
18.30 McD
18.30 McD
18.30 McD
Small Heath
Small Heath
Small Heath
Small Heath
Small Heath
29th
25th
27th
30th
25th
28th
24th
24th
25th Run 9:00 22nd Run 9:00 20th
McD Small
McD Small
Heath
Heath
Full
Full
21st Run 9:00
23rd
26th
Members
Members
McD Small
Run
Run
Heath
22nd Summer
24th
27th
Bank
Holiday
23rd
25th
28th
27th
23rd
20th Run 9:00
McD Small
Heath
Full
Run
Run
Run
24th Slow Riding Day 21st
27th
24th
Members
10:00 McD
10:00 McD
10:00 McD
Run 9:00
Run
Small Heath
Small Heath
Small Heath
McD Small Heath
22nd Spring
25th
28th
25th
Bank
Holiday
23rd
26th
29th
26th
26th
Run 9:00 26th Run 10:00 23rd Run 10:00 21st
McD Small
McD Small
McD Small
Heath
Heath
Heath
24th
Full
Xmas 22nd
27th
25th Run 9:00 22nd
Members
Pudding Full
McD Small
Run
Members Run
Heath
23rd
25th
28th
23rd
26th
20th
22nd
25th
24th
20th
19th
23rd
22nd
19th
22nd
21st
25th
19th
23rd Committee 20th Committee 18th
19.30
19.30
20th
Committee 17th Committee 21st Committee 18th
19.30
19.30
19.30
16th
21st
18th
24th
21st
19th
16th
22nd
19th
18th
19th
23rd Committee 20th Committee 20th Committee 17th Evening Run 22nd Committee 19th
18.30 McD
19.30
19.30
19.30
19.30
Small Heath
20th
23rd
18th
21st
24th
21st
22nd
14th
Run 10:00 19th Run 10:00 16th Run 10:00 16th Run 9:00 13th
16th
19th
15th Scottish 13th Run 9:00 17th Run 9:00 14th
18th
McD Small
McD Small
McD Small
McD Small
McD Small
McD Small
Tour
Heath
Heath
Heath
Heath
Heath
Heath
Full
Run 9:00 14th
Full
Full
18th BAM Bash 15th Run 9:00 20th Run 10:00 17th Run 10:00 15th
14th Run 9:00 19th Run 9:00 16th
17th
20th Iron Persons 17th
McD Small Heath Members
McD Small
McD Small
Members
Members
McD Small
McD Small
Full
McD Small
Sutton
Run
Scottish Tour
Heath
Heath
Run
Run
Heath
Heath
Members Run
Heath
Coldfield
16th
18th
21st
16th
19th
15th
17th
20th
15th
18th
21st
18th
13th
Committee 16th
19.30
10th
12th
9th
15th
Scottish
Tour
10th
11th
13th
14th
9th
8th
7th
9th
Run 9:00 12th Run 10:00 9th Run 10:00
McD Small
McD Small
McD Small
Heath
Heath
Heath
10th
8th Absent Friends 13th
7th
11th
12th
12th
15th
9th
Run 9:00 6th
10th
McD Small Heath
Scottish Tour
9th Scottish 7th Run 9:00 11th Run 9:00
McD Small
McD Small
Tour
Heath
Heath
12th
10th Scottish 8th
Tour
8th
5th
14th
Run 9:00
McD Small
Heath
7th
9th
13th
Run 9:00
McD Small
Heath
Run 9:00 11th
McD Small Heath
Lakes Tour
12th
7th
Lakes Tour
6th
9th
8th
9th
12th
5th
8th
10th
Lakes Tour
6th
8th
11th
9th
8th
Full Members
Run
5th
9th Group Night 6th Group Night 4th
Tally Ho 20.00
Tally Ho 20.00
8th
11th
3rd
6th
2nd
3rd Run 10:00 1st
McD Small
Heath
2nd
4th
6th Run 10:00
McD Small
Heath
7th
6th
4th
Run 9:00
McD Small
Heath
2nd
5th
5th
7th
2nd
5th
3 Moor Days
1st
4th
3rd
7th
2nd
5th
Run 9:00
McD Small
Heath
10th
5th
5th
8th
Easter Mon
1st
Run 9:00 2nd
McD Small
Heath
3rd
May Day 6th
Bank Holiday
Run 9:00
McD Small
Heath
4th
1st
Dec
Group Night 6th Group Night 6th Group Night 3rd Evening Run 8th Group Night 5th Group Night 3rd Group Night 7th Group Night 4th
18.30 McD
Tally Ho 20:00
Tally Ho 20:00
Tally Ho 20.00
Tally Ho 20.00
Tally Ho 20.00
Tally Ho 20:00
Tally Ho 20:00
Small Heath
5th
8th
4th
6th
9th
4th
7th
7th
10th
4th
4th
7th
5th Run 10:00 2nd Run 10:00 2nd
McD Small
McD Small
Heath
Heath
3rd
3rd
6th
Run 10:00 13th Run 10:00 10th Run 10:00 10th
McD Small
McD Small
McD Small
Heath
Heath
Heath
11th
14th
11th
Run 10:00
McD Small
Heath
Nov
Observed Runs - Start at McDonalds, Small Heath (Summer 9.00am), (Winter 10.00am - January, February, March, November and December)
Evening Runs - Start at McDonalds, Small Heath (18.30 April-August) Full Member’s Runs Start at 9.00am
Group Nights - (1st Wed’s) 8:00pm (Tally Ho) Committee Meetings - (3rd Wed’s) 7:30pm (Tally Ho)
2013 PART ISS 4
Wed
Tue
Mon
Sun
Sat
Fri
Thu
Wed
Tue
Mon
Sun
Sat
Fri
Thu
Wed
Tue
Mon
Sun
Sat
Fri
Thu
Wed
Tue
Mon
Sun
Sat
Fri
Thu
Wed
Tue
Mon
Sun
Sat
4th
4th
Fri
Thu
Group Night 2nd
Tally Ho 20:00
2nd
1st
1st
3rd
1st
Oct
3rd
Sep
1st
Aug
2nd
Jul
3rd
Jun
Group Night 1st
Tally Ho 20.00
May
Group AGM 2nd
Tally Ho 20.00
Apr
Wed
Mar
Tue
Feb
New Year’s 1st
Day
Jan
EVENTS 2013 Birmingham Advanced Motorcyclists - Issue 4
14
Snetterton Race Report
Just 3 weeks after the hard fought Donington round
the Sorrrymate.com team of Colin Norris and Warren
Verwey were on their way to the re-scheduled
Snetterton round
The normal preparatory track day had to be called off,
Colin became a Grandad for the first time early on the
same morning and simply could not make it.
“No worries we always have the Friday test day
before racing to get dialled in to the circuit and track
conditions” said the ever enthusiastic new Grandad.
Sadly this was not to be. Yet again the Snetterton
weather was determined to have a say in proceedings.
3 sessions in the morning were damp, just drizzle,
not nearly wet enough for wets, uncomfortable on
slicks. Then at lunch it rained, properly, and after a
couple of sessions there was standing water all over
the circuit. The boys called it a day, took the bikes
through scruitineering and sorted the garage ready for
race day
Saturday morning broke, the circuit was dry and the
forecast fine. Fergus, Phil and Ben arrived to form the
pit crew and all was looking good for the day.
First out was Colin for the Moto Solo qualifying. With
so little quality time on the bike the pace was not high
but he qualified 7th with every chance of a good start
from the 2nd row
Soon afterwards was the all important Endurance
qualifying session. Warren was first to leave the
garage, a little late after mis-understanding the P.A
calling but this worked to his advantage having a
clear track at the back of the main field. Warren put
in some good laps then pitted. Fergus and his team
quickly had Colin on circuit. Feeling confident after
his earlier session he posted a good lap qualifying the
team 3rd in class, 10th overall
Colin’s Moto Solo races were fairly uneventful with a
6th and 8th places but his consistency and pace were
improving all the time, especially on the brakes as his
feel for the new EBC “HH” pads improved
Time for the main Endurance race. It’s Colin to start
with Warren holding the bike for the traditional “Le
Mans” start. Everyone gets away cleanly and the pace
at the front is frantic. Phil Seton (Power Projects)
riding Graham Gowland’s BSB supersport bike is
leading the 600 National class, followed by William
White (Triumphs over adversity) Mark Smith Halvorsen
(Macca and Edge) and Colin, all separated by less
than 2 seconds. On lap 12 William White succumbed
to the pace falling at the tight 180 degree Montreal
hairpin, leaving the other 3 leading runners to battle it
out to the first pitstop.
A great changover from Fergus and his team and
Warren is soon out and closing down on Richie
Cunningham (Power Projects). After an hour of racing
we are in second place and steadily gaining on leaders
Macca and Edge with old adversaries Peter and Marc
Dilks (Pitstop) up to third place
Snetterton Race Report
With only 30 minutes to go Colin is back out on the
fully repaired R6 (nice work guys), Pitstop have pulled
out a commanding lead and with yet another dramatic
twist Nick Edgeley (Macca and Edge) has limped back
to the garage with a blown engine on his Triumph 675
leaving Les Liney (still injured from a fall at Anglesey)
and Richard Whittey (Van Hire Racing) in a good 3rd
place.
Another great changeover and there is nothing
between the Sorrymate .com team and Macca and
Edge. After one and a half hours racing there is only 7
tenths or a second between Macca’s Triumph 675 and
Colin’s R6 with Pitstop and Power Projects battling for
3rd only a few seconds behind.
Then disaster, Colin gets tangled with a slower rider at
So it ended, a fantastic race with endless twists and
turns. Another Podium for Warren and Colin, 4 out of
4 races and a championship lead of 29 points going
into the next round in 2 week’s time at the technical
Cadwell Park circuit in Lincolnshire.
Join us
there for
what is
sure to be
a fantastic
day’s
racing
Palmers, a fast left hander in the new infield section.
Both riders fall, fortunately without injury, Colin picks
up his bike and to his great joy it starts up. He returns
to the pits with the all important transponder. Warren
is soon out but is held at the pit exit as the safety car
has been deployed while the marshals clear the circuit
of crash debris.
Warren circulates behind the Safety car for a few
laps then it’s back to full pace and after 2 hours the
Sorrymate team are in 3rd behind Power Projects and
Pitstop. More drama as Warren pushes on Phil Seton
falls from the immaculate R6 also at Palmers. The bike
is wrecked but he bravely runs back to the garage
with the transponder allowing Richie Cunningham to
continue.
Colin
Norris
15
16
BAM Members Forum
10 Top Reasons Why We Crash
The BAM Forum is exclusive to BAM Members and is a great way to keep in touch with all the latest news, events
plus you can interact with other members of the group on all matters regarding motorcycling. We currently have over
half of the BAM membership on the forum and this is growing all the time.
THERE have been plenty of studies into motorcycle crashes over the years and www.visordown.com using
the latest set of UK figures from ‘Reported Road Casualties in Great Britain; 2011 Annual Report’ compiled
the following stats with the following caveat: even here, only accidents where police attended the scene were
included, and only 86% of reported motorcycle accidents made it into the analysis, although that’s still a very high
figure.
There’s a number 1 figure that’s not included –accidents where the rider wasn’t to blame at all which applied
to 6509 riders out of the 18,156 involved, or 36%. So, of the crashes where the rider had to shoulder some
responsibility, here’s the list of factors, starting with the lowest:
On the forum you can:
• Get information and planned route details for forthcoming observed runs
• View the current years calendar for all planned runs and events
• Receive reminders for club nights, slow riding days and the BAM Bash
• Add or view photos from previous events and runs
• Post motorcycling questions or views for other members to comment on
• See the latest newsletters online
• Download over 90 great motorcycling routes (some in Garmin and TomTom formats)
• Observers can download the observed run report form
Visit: www.bamforum.co.uk and click on the
Join This Group! Button
(If you have any difficulties joining or using the forum please send an email to [email protected])
Birmingham Advanced Motorcyclists – Web Page
www.bam.org.uk
The BAM website is designed to give you a wealth of information
about the group, where we meet, observed runs and forthcoming
events. The purpose of the website is to give BAM a presence on
the internet, illustrate what motorcycling is all about and at the same
time demonstrate our ethos on motorcycling to attract prospective
members.
Instant run status communication – if the weather forecast is bad
or the run organiser judges that the circumstances will not
permit safe riding for members
a scrolling message is put on
the home page of the website to
advise cancellation or a change
to normal circumstances. So, if in
doubt check the web page!
10: Exceeding the speed limit - 5% (837 crashes in 2011)
9: Travelling too fast for the conditions - 6% (1036 crashes in 2011)
8: Sudden braking - 7% (1236 crashes in 2011)
7: Slippery road (due to weather) - 7% (1264 crashes in 2011)
6: Careless, reckless or in a hurry - 9% (1617 crashes in 2011)
5: Learner or inexperienced rider - 9% (1645 crashes in 2011)
4: Poor turn or manoeuvre - 9% (1677 crashes in 2011)
3: Failed to judge other person’s path or speed - 13% (2323 crashes in 2011)
2: Failed to look properly - 16% (2889 crashes in 2011)
1: Loss of Control - 16% (2971 crashes in 2011)
So if you know of any other motorcyclists who would benefit from advanced training to try to help
them avoid this top 10 then please bring them along to BAM
Read the full report at: http://www.visordown.com/learners/10-most-common-reasons-for-crashing/23075.
html#ixzz2ZmnaMr76
UK & European
Motorcycle Touring
Tours throughout the UK,
Ireland and Europe riding
excellent roads fully researched.
UK Day Ride-outs and Rider Assessments
For full details visit our website:
www.dragonmototours.co.uk
Or contact us via:
e-mail: [email protected]
DragonMotoTours
@DragonMotoTours
17
18
BAM Full Members’ Runs - 2013
BAM Regalia
We now have a great selection of clothing
featuring the BAM logo which can be purchased
at most club nights.
• T-shirts £10
• Polo shirts £16
• Fleece £25
• Regatta coats £45
• Caps £8
All clothing is black with the 'BAM' logo in green.
Most sizes available on the night or any special
requests to order. Any club member wishing
any special items or different colours are more
than welcome to view our suppliers website and
choose any item that is in their catalogue. As long
as I have an item number, colour, and a size I
will order it for you – visit www.swiftworkwear.co.uk
Feel free to contact me with your requirements at
[email protected]
Andy Keasey
You must be a Full Member of BAM / IAM. Bikes must be road worthy and attendees should arrive at the departure
point with a full tank of fuel. Further fuel stops will be at approximately 100 mile intervals. Each run usually involves a
full days riding with food and fuel stops designed as part of the route. The 2nd Man Drop off system will be used. Those
unfamiliar with this system should speak to the organisers on the day for a brief explanation. Where possible proposed
routes, on word and Garmin will be posted on the BAM Forum www.bamforum.co.uk
Unless otherwise stated all Full Members Runs start at 9.00am prompt from McDonalds in Small Heath.
DATE
Event
ORGANISER/S
DISTRICT
START POINT
Aug 18
Alan Keepax
TBA
Brecon Beacons
Sep 29
Adrian Court /
Col Daniels
Peak District
McD’s 9am
Oct 13
Absent Friends
Keith Maxwell
Wednesday Evening Observed Runs
TIME: 6.30pm
STARTING POINT:
McDonalds – Small Heath
DATES:
See calendar
Please arrive with a full tank of fuel
Associates – the Wednesday observed runs are a
great opportunity to do some additional runs as you
prepare for your advanced test. We try to have an
observer available for everyone however as they are
evening runs and light is at a premium we ask you to
be as prompt as possible so the runs can commence
at 6.30pm.
The Wednesday observed runs start in April and end
towards the end of August. There are either two or
three Wednesday runs per month dependant on how
the month falls (see the calendar for the dates) and at
each run there is a run organiser who will explain the
format and link you up with an observer.
Last Wednesday night run this year is 28th August
BAM Membership Subscriptions
We have facilities at Unity Trust Bank to allow BAM members the convenience to pay their annual membership
online. To pay online, please make payment to the following bank account:
Sort code: 08-60-01 Account no.: 20288352 Account name: Birmingham Advanced Motorcyclists
When making your payment please ensure to use your full name and BAM membership number as a reference.
Payments by any other method such as cheque or cash will still be accepted. However, if paying by these
methods, annual membership will increase to the following amounts as of the 5th July 2012:
- £15.00 for associate members; - £13.00 for full members.
Should you opt to pay online, annual BAM membership costs shall remain the same:
- £12.00 for associate members; - £10.00 for full members.
If you have any queries regarding the above, please contact Richard Atkinson, BAM Membership Secretary, on
07983 569161 or [email protected]
19
200
Bassetts Pole 9am 200
Leiceter/
Northamptonshire
Nov 24
Quentin Davies
Dec 22
Quentin Davies
Xmas Pud
APP MILES
BRIEFING
You must read and understand the following briefing in order to go on these runs:-
THESE RUNS ARE OPEN TO BAM FULL MEMBERS ONLY
• You must also be a fully paid up member of the I.A.M.
• A pillion passenger is acceptable.
• The Leader and Lastman shall be identified.
• Safety is No.1 Priority. Every rider is responsible for their
own actions and any consequences that those actions
may have.
• Traffic Laws must be obeyed at all times. Your
motorcycle must be road legal and roadworthy.
• System is 2nd person drop, straight ahead unless a
marker is placed. All roundabouts to have a marker
at exit where safety permits. The marker to position
themselves accordingly.
• If any rider wishes to leave the ride they must inform
the Leader or Lastman before doing so, to avoid any
confusion by the following riders.
• There will be an outward route and a return route; any
riders who wish to make their own way back may do so.
• Riders are not allowed to overtake the Leader.
• Route details showing Petrol/Rest stops to be issued
prior to start. Please arrive with a full tank of fuel.
• Any Rider who acts dangerously is to be reported to
the Leader/Organizer who will take appropriate action.
A Rider could be warned or excluded from the ride and
will be reported to the Group Committee for any further
action.
(A fuller account of the 2nd person drop can be viewed
on our Club Web Site under the Events section and it is
essential that all are familiar with it for safety).
All persons on the ride will be deemed to have read and
understood these instructions.
They will be posted on the club web site and displayed in
the club newsletter on a regular basis.
Advertising in the BAM Newsletter
We now have available in the newsletter, advertising space for club members who have their own business or
wish to advertise their services (legitimate services only). We have 1/6th of a page adverts in black and white
available at only £35 for six issues (12 months) on a first come, first served basis. We only have six adverts
available so if you are interested please drop me an email at [email protected]
Adrian Court
BAM Observed Runs
Saturdays
Sundays
Bob Watson
Graham Hay
07554 111079
Check the events calendar in the
middle pages of this magazine or
contact the organisers.
IDDLEWAY
WATERY LA
NE M
A4540
R
RY
ENT
COV
McDonald’s
A45
OAD
TRY R
CO V E N
WA
Y
DLE
LEY
MID
A4540
1.To go on any observed runs your motorbike must be
road legal and roadworthy
2.You should arrive with a full tank of fuel
3.Associates are required to pay a £10 contribution
to the observer‘s expenses for an observed run and
debrief
Birmingham City
Football Club
ELL ROAD
CATT
OAD
CO
The meeting place
is the McDonalds
Restaurant just off
the island at the end
of the Small Heath
Bypass and at the
bottom of the hill
from Birmingham
City Football Ground.
A45
109 Coventry Road, Small Heath, Birmingham, B10 0RJ
Working together to make
Motorcycling safer
KINDLY SUPPORTED BY
THE WEST MIDLANDS POLICE
SHELDON MOTORCYCLES
TAMWORTH YAMAHA
PLUS ONE CREATIVE CONSULTANCY
BRINDLEY HONDA - WOLVERHAMPTON
STREETBIKE
www.b-a-m.org.uk
Newsletter designed & printed by Plus One - 0121 707 8384
AD
RO
• You’re a full member and you
fancy going out for a couple
of hours but can’t decide
where to go to find some of
the best biking roads around
Birmingham
PLEASE NOTE
ST
RY
NT
VE
• You’ve passed your test and
need to sharpen your skills
Full members are also welcome.
ADDERLEY
T
SAN
• If you’re an observer looking to
give a bit more time and take
out a different associate
Observed runs are on alternate
Saturdays and Sundays at 9.00am
April - November and 10.00am
December - March. During the
summer there are also runs on
Wednesdays at 6.30pm, which
allows you to test your night riding
skills on the way home!!
These runs are provided to help you with your training
in addition to training runs that you may already do
with your current Observer. They enable you to get
extra practice and meet up with other associates,
Observers and Full Members.
If you’ve not been on one before why not come
and give it a try?
D
K R WAY
PAR
LEY
IGH
DES
HH
B OR
EAT
LL H
SMALL HEAT
H HIGH
WAY
• You’ve passed your IAM test
and are considering training to
be an Observer
ASSOCIATES
S MA
• You want to get as much
training in as possible before
your test
If you’ve never been before or have
just joined BAM, the runs start from
McDonald’s just off the island at
the end of the Small Heath Bypass,
at the bottom of the hill from the
Birmingham City Football Ground.
The island is allegedly feared by
some but it’s not exactly busy on a
Sunday or Saturday and there are
2 exits both of which get you into
McDonald’s car-park. If it’s wet,
snowing or cold we will probably
be found inside, otherwise we will
found loitering outside.
LEA
Mt P
• Your Observer is busy, on
holiday or too busy at work
Summer Meeting Times
Saturday - 9.00am Sunday - 9.00am
Wednesday - 6.30pm (Wednesday Runs finish on 28th August)
EY
MID
DLE
WA
Y
The routes are varied, Shrewsbury,
Ledbury, Craven Arms, Uttoxeter,
Worcester, Wellesbourne, Banbury
are just a few destinations where
we finish up at a one of the culinary
delightful venues such as Tescos,
McDonald’s, Burger King, Little
Chef or favourite biking venues
such as Harry Tuffins. We might
end up at the same place but it’s
nearly always via a different route.
Associates can get debriefed, whilst
their observers enjoy breakfast and
cups of tea.
Why should you come on the
observed runs?
Basically everyone who is a
member of BAM is welcome and
it provides a great opportunity for
all club members to get out on
our bikes.
BOR
DES
L
The runs are designed with a bit of
town work, (that’s partly why we
meet in the city centre, so we can
get that tiresome bit over and done
with!!!) followed by a mix of roads
through towns, villages and the
highways and byways around the
Midlands. Each route is designed
to challenge your rider skills whilst
hopefully bringing a smile to your
face.
The return journey is often
organised with the second man
drop off system utilised to bring
everyone back to Birmingham.
Alternatively you can make your
own way back or as often happens
we take off further afield to benefit
from the dry roads and sunny
weather!!!
21
WATERY LANE MIDDLEWAY
The BAM observed runs provide
a great opportunity for associates
to meet with group observers and
get some additional training. This
is NOT riding in a group as you will
be riding with an observer and will
meet up with everyone else at the
final destination.
Observed Run Times
BO
RD
ES
20
22
BAM Membership
Information
Group Meetings
How do I join BAM?
What do I get for my Money?
You can join BAM at any of the Group Meetings which
are held on the 1st Wednesday of every month at Tally
Ho Police Training Centre, Pershore Road, Edgbaston,
Birmingham B5 7RN.
Alternatively you can complete the IAM Skills for Life
Membership form and the BAM Membership form on the
BAM website www.b-a-m.org.uk. Click on the “How to
join” tab and follow the hyperlink to the forms, fill them in
and send them to Richard Atkinson at the address below,
along with 1 passport style photo.
Your initial payment covers the IAM test fee, 1 year’s
IAM membership, 1 year’s BAM membership, a copy
of “How to be a better rider – Advanced Motorcycling,
the Essential Guide” a copy of the Highway Code and a
framed certificate on passing the IAM test. You will also
receive a regular magazine from the IAM, a bi-monthly
newsletter from BAM, access to the BAM Forum and
many discounts from major companies.
As an Associate member you are welcome to attend our
monthly Group meetings, which feature a regular session
on Roadcraft /advanced riding plus a guest speaker.
How much does it cost?
The “Skills for Life” scheme costs £139.00.
If you are an existing member of the IAM but are a new
Motor Bike Associate you get a £30.00 discount.
Annual fees are payable on a rolling renewal basis
i.e. 12 months from your last renewal date and are
as follows:
If paying online:
BAM Associate Membership - £12.00
BAM Full Members - £10.00
Payment by any other method e.g. cash/cheque
BAM Associate Membership - £15.00
BAM Full Members - £13.00
As a member of the Group, you must also pay an annual
subscription fee of £30.00 to the IAM.
What Happens Next?
Once your application has been received and processed
you will become an Associate, (when you join your
category of membership is called Associate). You will
be issued with an ID Card and you will be contacted by
one of the Area Co-ordinators shown on the opposite
page. They will endeavour to allocate an individual
Observer (tutor) for one to one tuition, however as
we are a voluntary organisation this will be subject to
availability. As an alternative, once you have your ID
card you are entitled to attend the regular training runs
on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays that are open
to all associates of BAM. The dates and times for these
runs are detailed in the BAM Newsletter, and on the
website, www.B-A-M.org.uk. A £10 contribution per
observed run is required to be paid to your observer to
go towards their expenses.
All group meetings are on the first Wednesday of the month and will be at the Tally Ho Police Training Centre,
Pershore Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B5 7RN.
Please check out the club website www.b-a-m.org.uk for directions.
STARTING AT 8PM PROMPT
Welcome to New Members and Recent Test Passes
NEW MEMBERS
RECENT TEST PASSES
Simon Robinson
Gary Plume
Kashif Kahn
Huzaifa Malik
AssociateObserver
Stephen Hiett-Jones
Adrian Court
Nigel Kibble
Stuart Turner
Terry Barrett
Lester Phelps
Stuart Fordham
Martin Doran
Max Christmas
Julian Grubb
Eddie Underhill
Julian Grubb
Steve May Lawrence Yates
Stuart Maclachlan
Michael King
Mohammed Zaman
What do I do when I pass my test?
On passing your test you become a full member and you
can join the Full members ride outs that are organised
throughout the year. Please let the Membership Secretary
know your IAM Number and return your ID badge for an
upgrade, (or provide a new passport sized photo).
Please inform the membership secretary if your
membership details change, (address, telephone,
mobile, e-mail etc).
Membership Secretary
Richard Atkinson
PO Box 16225
Shirley
Solihull
B90 9HN
Telephone 07983 569161
E-Mail [email protected]
23
BAM Training
Area Co-ordinators
Marcus McCormick
Chief Observer
Telephone:
07970 901929
Mark Weaver (temporarily covering position)
Observer Training
& Co-ordinaton
Kevin Kinson
North-West
Area co-ordinator
Telephone: 07796 618738
Email: [email protected]
B1,2,3,18,19,20,21,42,43,66,67,
69,70,71
Marion O’Brien
North-East
Area co-ordinator
Telephone:
0121 244 7493
Email: [email protected]
B4,6,7,8,23,24,33,34,35,36,37,44,
46,72,73,74,75,76,77,78,79
Martin Doran
South-West
Area co-ordinator
Telephone:
07976 849924
B15,16,17,29,31,32,45,60,61,62,
63,64,65,68, 96,97
Suki Gosal
South-East
Area co-ordinator
Telephone:
024 765 01502
B5,9,10,11,12,13,14,25,26,7,
28,30,38,47,48,49,50,80,90,
91,92,93,94,95,98
Electronic BAM
Membership Renewals
With the current cost of a 2nd class
stamp at 36 pence and with approx.
340 members, a significant saving
on postage and materials can be
made by issuing the majority of
BAM membership annual renewal
notifications by email.
If you have not yet indicated a
preference and would like to help
BAM save costs, please send an email
to Richard Atkinson (Membership
Secretary) at [email protected]
requesting that your annual renewal
notification is sent via email. If you
still like the world of pen and paper
and we don’t hear from you then we’ll
still continue to send out your future
renewal notifications by post.
Your email address will only be used to
contact you regarding administration
purposes and to keep you up to date
with matters regarding Birmingham
Advanced Motorcyclists and in
accordance with the Data Protection
Act 1984. Your email address will not
be shared with any other third parties.
Many thanks
Richard Atkinson
IAM
IMPORTANT Membership Renewal
BAM is an affiliated group of the IAM
and all our members must be a current
member of the IAM. Your IAM membership
is renewable on an annual basis and you
will normally receive a renewal reminder in
the post. Without IAM membership, you are
not eligible to be a member of Birmingham
Advanced Motorcyclists or partake in any of
the club activities.
Therefore please ensure that you renew your
IAM membership annually and promptly.
To renew your IAM membership
please visit http://www.iam.org.
uk/renew_your_membership/
renewalofmembershippayment.html
or telephone 0845 126 8600
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