Neil, thanks for another interesting and informative video - you and Dale make a great combination by the way. I am a National Observer on both bikes and cars and have some experience of the issues you raise, but, of course I wasn't on your ride. From my view of your video (sitting in an armchair!) I'd say that firstly, you are very open to development, which is great, but that brings a tendency to be over self-critical. I think you scored yourself as D-; I'd have given have given to C or C+, including taking into taking account of the fact that there was clearly learning from the ride, and you took it all on board. 'Managing the ride' is an additional aspect that both bike Observers and Associates have to work with. Watching for signals can be a distraction, but so can crackling and disappearing sound from a radio in your ear. Even the car conversation with the associate is a mixed blessing, it is very easy to give directions and general guidance, but the moment it becomes a conversation the associate can lose concentration. A ride shouldn't be a 'navigation exercise'. I sometimes ignore a missed turn and re-route slightly to avoid 'stressing' the associate but an aspect of Observing is to be very confident about where you are going, and what the hazards the route ahead is likely to throw up. I'm also happy to take a break and allow an associate to relax and refocus after a signal error or confusion. I'm pretty certain that Geoff, your Chief Observer, knows a lot about the pro's and con's of signal direction v radios. One thing is certain, in my view, if you dwell on a mistake, your mind is not on the road ahead, forget and move on; but, of course, that is easier said than done! Keep working on the riding, and keep enjoying it. If you are ever near Shuttleworth again I'm only about 4 miles away and a coffee and/or a ride with you would be great.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

I'll look forward to the coffee and chat John, consider it a date! I really appreciate it when Nat Observers like yourself, Chris and Mike chip in to the debate. This is one of the reasons why B2TB was started, to engage a more xpert level of advice as well as leveraging other bikers' experience, and so enriching / accelerating everyone's learning. I'm a professional trainer. I've trained over 20,000 people at all levels across many businesses. One of the absolute fundamentals to effective learning is, as far as you can, to put your 'student' in a place where they feel safe, relaxed and unstressed. You mention Chairman Geoff, and he is exceptional at this. On this ride (and again I emphasise no fault of the observer) you can see how the pressure began to mount on me over the first 25 mins - one missed signal makes the next more likely, so it compounds. I'm pretty strong-minded but as a 'back to biker' it really began to affect me, as you can see. More importantly, I don't think in any way it reflects a real situation, it is artificial and would never be repeated in the future. Thus, it elevates exam technique over best practice. I realise it can help to practice mirror work, but surely there are other, safer ways the observer/examiner can assess this? Clive Evans' comment below came as a surprise to me, so it seems the IAM examiners are beginning to use the tech as well. I really hope this becomes the norm. I've had one experience of radio (see IAM#7). As you say, a two-edged sword - you can hear the observer breathing for example, but on balance IMHO I feel this is far superior to the alternative system for direction.

Neil - I'm back on a bike after a 47 year break and greatly enjoy your videos. Excellent commentary and editing make them instructive and I can learn a lot from them

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Tony and welcome. That's music to my ears. Not only do you get to see me make loads of mistakes, but you'll also benefit from our resident experts (ex-Police, IAM, ROSPA and 'School of Life'!). I wish you well. Presume you've signed up for some form of advanced training?

Nice ride.... making progress or not being unnessessarily delayed is my toughest challenge.. great post ... great inspiration... safe riding..

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Neil, yes it seems to be a balance of progress v safety doesn't it? Glad it's helping, ride safe yourself too!

I’ve just passed my IAM test. I totally agree with your comment about the rear wards indicator observation. I understand that it improves the use of mirrors but I found that it distracted me from forward ‘high beam’ views and also in urban areas where there are multiple possible junctions to turn off. It does get easier with practice though. Stick with it and good luck.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Steve Tamsett that's interesting Steve, thanks for your comment and welcome to the channel. I've had some IAM rides where I got it perfect, but not here. I've learned to anticipate where they might turn, problem is sometimes either you just can't see or you really need to be looking forwards.

Neil, Always good to observe an associate going through the process of becoming an advanced rider. I have been following your journey. I would like to point out your comments between 25:30 and 26:00 regarding the left hand corner you were taking with the split screens and your subtitles saying that you had taken the corner "better" the second time around as regards to view. As you can see it is the same corner with different hazards to deal with. On the left video, a clean view with no oncoming traffic, on the right, 2 oncoming cars which you had to sacrifice position for safety (SSV). I think you positioned yourself in the right place for both situations. Some hazards are never the same twice and I think you did a good job in both situations. If you have to position yourself for safety then consider other aspects of your riding (say ability to stop within the distance to be clear in front of you, on the basis there is a centreline maked on the road, or half that if no centreline marked). IPSCA is a framework to follow for negotiating hazards but is not descriptive and the idea is to apply it based on the information you have. In both situations I think you did well. Regarding following signals; Going on an observed ride is not all about following directions. You are not assessed on that, so if things go wrong for whatever reason, don't let that upset your ride. Just regroup and move on. Your observer will have been trained to deal with these situations and has no bearing on your riding. Enjoy the journey. IAM Observer from New Zealand.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Steve, great to hear from you and thanks for the antipodean perspective. The split screen makes an interesting case study doesn't it? As you say, one road, but two different sets of circumstances. Thanks for your advice about following signals. Funnily enough, no-one has yet made that specific point to me, and I'd got the impression it was somehow down to me and my failure to observe properly.

@stevemccormick8432

6 жыл бұрын

Neil, you my want to ask your personal mentors about missing signals. My comments are based on what we do in NZ. Most of the time we strive to have bluetooth comms during training rides where possible to be able to verbally instruct the associate as to which way to go. Works really well when the Observer is in front doing a demo and wants to talk to the associate about what they are doing and why, or demo'ing commentary to give the associate an idea of what they are seeing and how they apply IPSCA. Your situation may be different. Always good to ask though!

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Steve McCormick the discussion is underway Steve. It's certainly sparked a debate!

Another great video Neil. Thanks. I can clearly see your progress on positioning and observations and your thinking and planning. Well done. I have to agree that the rear signals are hard work. I often do the same. I have lessons also with a ex-police motorcyclist who’s a Rospa and IAM examiner and we use Bluetooth and it’s a wonderful bit of kit. You get directions in time and the best benefit is that you get instant feedback and also advice before things happen too. Cheers Richard

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Richard Sherwin that's interesting Richard. I'm with you on this and think it's high time IAM sorted it. This wasn't one of my better rides, but sometimes we can learn more from a bad day than when everything goes well. Best wishes with your learning too!

@richardsherwin3259

6 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike Thanks

@seaflyfisher

6 жыл бұрын

I hope Neil doesn't mind me butting in here Richard - interesting comment that we talked about yesterday when we met up in Wiltshire - I think for me personally comms would work as long as it was only for directions "turn left at the next junction" but I wouldn't want commentary or any sort of feedback during the ride - I've seen film of "advanced instruction" on here where the observer continually told the student what bends were coming up and what to do which defeats the object a bit and I would find it very distracting having someone yapping in my ear - horses for courses I guess but for me - the observer should be doing just that and assess your riding later when you stop to debrief - I don't have a sat nav on my bike and I've used a post it note sized bit of paper with road numbers and place names on which also works well - stay safe - Dale

@richardsherwin3259

6 жыл бұрын

seaflyfisher Very good points. Yes it has to be used sparingly and for training and not a chatty ride out with mates etc.

Hi Neil it’s all coming on well m8 just try to relax and enjoy the riding not easy I know when you are being observed but that’s why we ride a motorcycle in the first place. I’ve just got back from 2507 miles door to door in France down to the Alps and the Pyrenees and the only thing to spoil a great trip with some super roads, stunning scenery and next to no traffic was the usual hassle on the M25 and the M1 coming home. Keep up the good work Neil it will happen don’t rush it!

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Gary, glad you had a good trip. Wondered where you'd been. Encouragement from someone with your background is highly valued. Must be honest my head felt like a box of frogs on the day! Your tip about the 'double whammy' of using the same system in the car has been very fruitful BTW - I now practice my biking skills on 4 wheels too.

Thanks another great video. Ok you wouldn't of passed the test on this ride but the fact that you were only too aware of what you had done wrong speaks volumes to me. It seems all of the observers are nice fella's and as long as they give you positive feedback alongside some negative then I think they are doing a great job. Only today I was looking at a record of an observed run I had back in 1988 and whilst it wasn't too bad there was enough criticism to make me aware of my failings and although I never ever took the test they are addressed every ride I do. The sad thing is that the observer was killed on his bike and it just shows me that none of us can ever be complacent when it comes to riding our bikes.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Ted and welcome to B2TB. You make a serious point, and I agree that we probably learn more from sessions like this than when it all goes smoothly. As you say the observers give us their time and experience to improve our ride and I'm very grateful for that.

Don't beat yourself up Neil, even though it wasn't your finest hour there was still a load of good stuff in there and you're picking many of your mistakes yourself now which is good news. I personally think the way some groups rely on the rear obs to determine the route hampers associates and your ride was a good example of that. It also shows one of the shortfalls of not having a dedicated observer- I would suggest if you had then he would of picked up that you were riding below your usual standard early on and stopped you for a debrief so you could then concentrate on the rest of your ride. The group I'm a member of distribute their routes with a calendar so the associates have chance to brief themselves of the route before the ride out that week. The route is also confirmed by the observer before you set off with any changes so the associate knows where he's going and if he/she isn't sure the observer still indicates the turns anyway. For me this allowed me to concentrate more on trying to improve my skills rather than having to look for directions which also relies on the observer giving that signal in good time and being in a position for me to see it. As has been said below already the observer should be picking up your head movements to show when you're doing your rear obs anyway, IMO the idea that they're using it to check your rear obs to me is a bit of an excuse for not having something better in place. As always thanks for sharing and keep up the good work.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

adrianbarrie13 Makes eminent sense to me Adrian. The group does post the destination but not the route. I see what you mean about having the same observer too. I believe the system needs revisiting. I live in a world of business process engineering and its not beyond the wit of man to resolve it. Id happily run a free workshop for IAM at its group level to thrash this out.

I agree 100% with you about having to watch your mirrors for the observer's turn signals. Very distracting and nerve-wracking. Actually, you would never have had to add the auxiliary mirrors if this archaic system wasn't in place as I think the mirrors on the RT are great, I love my Sena Bluetooth devices on both my helmets. I rode with a friend down on the Blue Ridge mountains this May and the Sena worked flawlessly. (just don't chew gum or suck hard candy while you're connected) This video was a great mix of road conditions and obstacles. You encountered just about every challenge one would normally see on a ride. I've watched it twice. Also, for practice when I'm not on the bike, I drive my pickup truck the exact same way I ride the bike, so I'm mentally practicing handling different challenges whenever I'm on the road......even to the extent of mentally putting one foot down whenever I stop. For us here in the U.S., putting the left foot down works best. High side of the road in on the left and right foot able to control rear brake., The two times I've dropped my bike was coming to a stop, grabbing the front brake while coming downhill and uphill making a left or right turn. I learned quickly with this big bike to keep my head up and use the back brake for stopping in these situations. Luckly, I have the engine crash bars installed. Only damage was to my ego and fortunately, I'm physically able to lift the bike up again. Ride on and thanks for the great video

@Back2TheBike

5 жыл бұрын

Larry Venezia glad it's helping Larry. That's a great tip about driving the car the same way. Must be interesting for those following to see you open the door to put your foot out though when you stop.;-)

Give yourself an A+. A great bit of ride . Big well done . again same nice roads to ride on. You where under pressure on that ride. Two hour of pressure. How long is the test it's self in time. I hope you have radio for it. Look forward to the next video. Well done again.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Cheers James, maybe OK for effort, but not one of my best performances if I'm honest!

I have days where bike controls me instead of me being in control and I have to reboot and think about what I’m doing and take command

I made my previous comment mid way through the video, before you explained that no comms are used in the test procedure. It does make me glad however, that was not the case when I underwent training and testing last month. On both rides the instructor and I had 2 way communication. During the test we only had to make one brief stop for the instructor to mark the score sheet. Directions came directly into my ear.

@Back2TheBike

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Ian, I like the idea of limited radio comms, although I find it can be distracting if there's too much chat. If you've seen my earlier films you'll know I hate the 'follow from in front' idea of checking the observer's indicators when crossing busy junctions!

@ianallso2541

5 жыл бұрын

@@Back2TheBike I have been working my way through your videos, enjoying the feedback and comparing with my own training. For reference I only learned to ride 18 months ago and purchased my first motorcycle 2 months later, a GW250. I have riden about 22,000km on this and approximately 12,000km on a PCX150 during that time. Having passed my restricted test last month I now have to wait until next November to get my full license, until then I am restricted to a maximum of 650cc bikes that meet LAMS guidelines. I'm trying to improve my skills and knowledge while I decide what type of motorcycle I want to progress to, at this time I'm leaning towards sports tourer of duel purpose bikes.

That was a challenging ride Neil so don't feel too bad about it. I'm guessing that when the rearward observation for turns was implemented there was a lot less traffic about meaning you had more time to keep watching the mirrors. It's tough I know, but when something goes awry forget it and move on. Easier said than done though. On the white line stuff, it surprises me that straying slightly over when it is safe and improves the view is a mistake? Okay, different if it is a solid line, but this was dashed. Just let it flow mate, you feel when it is right and that feeling embraces a lot of what would previously have been conscious thought. That frees brain space to think ahead. Muscle memory I guess. Anyway, well done; you coped well with the hazards and it was a good safe ride. Look forward to the next edition!

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Kevin B cheers Kevin. Endured it, didn't enjoy it, but a valuable learning experience all the same. Wouldn't want it like that every week though! It's time the IAM addressed this archaic system, sooner rather than later. Anyway, been out for a practice ride today which went well. As always, Dales given me blow by blow feedback of my Wilts ride, this then forms the agenda for my practice. Today it's been zippier RABs, lifesavers, getting into an o/t position without overtaking. We're getting together in Hampshire next week for some more filming.

@kevinb2773

6 жыл бұрын

Enjoy Hampshire - I'm just north of Southampton so know it well. Wales next week though!

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Don't forget your passport. Check this out too before you go, might be useful. www.llapgoch.org.uk/

It was interesting to see you follow the convoy of bikes with me wondering if your optimum position (around say gentle bends) was modified/compromised by the need to maintain a staggered position as the followed bike moved around somewhat. As you say, a tough session and it reminded me of my Mod2 albeit with the benefit of a radio link. Interestingly, they had recently replaced the push to talk system at Leicester and replaced it with an always on one and where I could here the examiner's heavy breathing. Very distracting. As you left the pub I could almost hear you screaming a Braveheart FREEDOM!

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Kevin Viney you know me too well Kevin! The biker at the back seemed very nervous with inconsistent positioning. Had he been on his own I'd have overtaken him, but am not sufficiently competent yet to get past a long and mixed line of bikes and cars. I was also conscious we weren't far from the pub, so judged the risk really wasn't worth the time it would save.

I agree about the use of comms - in this day and age, anything which stops any doubt has to be a good thing, and, since it gives you more opportunity to mainbeam obs, has to be safer. After all, on the Mod 2, you're in one-way radio contact with the examiner. This whole indicator thing is old fashioned and has inherent dangers anyway. What, for instance, happens when the observer is giving you a signal, which you miss, but other traffic sees? Nope - comms all the way...

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Welcome to the channel David - totally concur with your point. I'd like to think a few years from now this will have moved on. Many of the arguments I've heard here centre around 'that's the way we've always done it so why should you be any different?' A cry heard throughout history from those who resisted change.

I couldn't agree more about the archaic requirement for checking mirrors for observers signals being overdue for review. It's frustrating to downright dangerous. It should be Radio comms or satnav routes.

@Back2TheBike

4 жыл бұрын

Or a bit of all three? In certain conditions it was impossible to read, but it did train me to have a good look at what was going on behind me.

Just began watching this series. Where about in the uk are these, some beautiful roads/ scenery & that Racehorse Pub looks a cracker 👍🏼

@Back2TheBike

Жыл бұрын

Southeast of Northampton.

@jamiecarter8459

Жыл бұрын

@@Back2TheBike that Racehorse Pub looks really nice

Agreed - comms should now be fully utilised with advanced riding. The observer / examiner can assess rear observations with head movements of the rider which the trainee should accentuate during training to inform the observer it is actually being done.There is no doubt it is distracting for the trainee to follow signals and I feel it really adds little or no benefit to the training experience. I do feel you are still being hampered by using too high a gear in town work ( 20-30mph limits). Have you tried 1st and predominantly 2nd for 20-30mph; 3rd for 40-50 mph limits; 4th for 50-60mph and 'in the main' 5th and 6th for open/straight A class roads,dual carriage ways and motorways.I found this scale very beneficial ( I ride a 2018 RT) and you learn / know instinctively you are travelling at the right speed from the feedback the engine gives you without looking at the speedo too often. Personally positioning for and "linking series of bends" in town which are open and low speed is less important and I tend to use less of the road in most cases except the really tight / blind ones you highlighted in your video where you really need to hug the near side kerbs to maximise your safety bubble. It is good to start challenging yourself with more varied runs with multiple hazards - simulated test runs if you like and which are unfamiliar to you> this will really keep you looking / planning ahead and your observations turned up to maximum !

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Gordon, yes I'm with you on the head movement thing - the examiner is looking for that. I have tried what you say about gears (see my early films) but have to say now the bike feels far more relaxed and still has oodles of flexibility from the torquey twin. You make a good point about getting onto some unfamiliar roads too, and I'm starting to do that. Thanks!

Hi, really enjoying the videos, but I totally agree, trying to follow the indicators of a bike behind while pulling out of a junction is hard work, the should be using headsets, do these guys still have black and white TV's

@Back2TheBike

5 жыл бұрын

2 Wheel Adventures That's the IAM policy so has to be followed by the observers. I can see some logic to it but think it needs to be reviewed!

Good days, bad days we all have them Neil. I’m fortunate that my observer has a Sena 10 which links with mine. I listen he speaks, the only time I talk on it is to confirm a direction if I did not hear it properly. I still look in the mirrors 👍.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Edward, that's honest. I was out on Sunday, a much better ride working on some stuff Dale suggested. Felt really pleased with myself until I stalled at the lights ... Anyway, Dale and I are meeting up again this week in Hampshire/Wiltshire for some more filming. Should be good!

@edwardleniston1076

6 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike Great weather here at the moment , enjoy your ride.

Neil, a long comment but here goes: Don't beat yourself up about missing the occasional Observer's indicator. It happens. Keep calm, turn round safely, ride past them, and put it to the back of your head and concentrate on the ride ahead. I know you said in another video comment you wouldn't blame the Observer, nor will I, but I would make a couple of observations ;) for any that may be reading here and for general discussion. Indicators should be used for directions **only** not stopping. This makes it easy for the Associate: See an approaching junction, mirror check. In the video the Observer tried to stop Neil in a layby directly after a right turn. That is never going to end happily/tidily. I can see how this way of working would mess up an Associate's riding if they are continually having to check to see if the Observer wants to stop. The stopping process is separate and should have been covered in the pre-ride briefing. There's a few options: 1. Overtake (no indicator!) and lead the Associate to a safe stopping place. This is not always possible (safely/legaly) with an Associate who is 'on it'. 2. Give a couple of hoots to be let past, and then do 1. above. 3. Have a pre-arrranged stopping place (if the Associate knows the area). 4. Pull up alongside at a junction, or in stationary traffic, and tell the Associate where to stop. Neil, when you did miss the signal and had to do a 180 in the mouth of the road, that is the the time for a full on shoulder check! At the start of the video there was talk of using the 2nd lane, but when you did, you were immediately undertaken by a yellow car. Just jumping into another lane because it is free needs to be assessed along with the surroundng traffic and what will happen. If you are not at a suitable speed given the vehicles behind, is it a good move? However I don't think that was the point being made, instead I think the Observer was taking control to change lane and lead you through a complex junction where indicator use would have been difficult. Finally, you comment a couple of times in the video about crossing the centre line being a test fail. I'd say "It depends". It is not as black/white as the statement made makes it. Was there some caveats from the Observer when giving you this feedback? Can you overtake? Can you straight line (bends/RABs)? Another interesting and informative video. We can see the progress ;) your are making.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Mike Roberts Your input much appreciated Mike, as always! I thought I had cracked the directions via indicator thing, the last few rides went quite well. Here the problem was 4 missed in quick succession, and once you've missed one, they tend to multiply! I note your procedure, and agree that would be helpful. The 2nd and 3rd misses were where I couldn't discern between a pull in, or a turn. The 4th was blocked by my top box as I banked slightly, but maybe should have spotted it. Having missed 4 so quickly it does affect your ride,as you start to get slightly paranoid, then maybe spend more time looking rear wards than you should. The lane change comment actually referred to the clip shown in the last 5 mins or so, where you can see the observer passing me in lane 2 at the lights. Where you see the yellow car you're correct he is leading me through the roundabout. I think the 'crossing the White line' comment was addressed at when I make a hash of the left hand junction, and when i was positioning for view in a village. Thanks for kind comment about progress Mike. This session was a battle for me, but I know from experience this is how to learn.

@andrewbloomer306

6 жыл бұрын

I agreed with what Mike says especially about when your Observer wants you to pull over - I nearly always pass my associates and then pull in where it's safe to do so, and never on the open road (ie look for laybys, car parks, pubs etc..). I'm surprised that no one picked you up on your overtake - you overtook on the approach to a junction and when you passed the jaguary you were actually passing the junction on the LHS - IAM is all about road safety first and foremost, and as such we follow the guidelines, amongst other publications, og the Highway Code which clearly states you SHOULDN'T overtake on the approach to a junction full stop. It doesn't mention that it's OK to to do when it's a "quiet junction" and this is certainly an automatic test failure. Overall though, your journey continues and it wasn't a bad ride by any means, so instead of labouring over the negatives concentrate on the positives, of which there were plenty. Keep it up and you won't be far off soon.....

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Andrew Bloomer Hi Andrew, so that's five 'test fails' then. Just when I was starting to feel better ;-) I'm off to join the Foreign Legion ...

@andrewbloomer306

6 жыл бұрын

There you go again - focussing on the negatives rather than the positives. Now's the time to make your mistakes rather than on test..... You'll be fine - you're doing well

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Andrew Bloomer Thanks for your encouragement Andrew. Learning is a rollercoaster isnt it, but as a wise man said its the bumps we climb on.

Hi Neil, sorry for being late to the party again, busy times what with the paid work, family, routine group management and now I have the task of training a dozen bike cops to National Observer standard so that we can get BikeSafe up and running in Greater Manchester. First thing is that I'll join the chorus and say don't be too hard on yourself, if you know what went wrong it's an opportunity to be better next time. The time to worry is when you are oblivious to the errors. As for the signals Vs radio's for directions, I've been on the receiving end of good and bad examples of both. When good both are not noteworthy, when bad both are frustrating. In the video the issues seemed to start and persisted because signals were being used to get you to stop. In my group we only use signals for route directions, if we want the associate to stop we overtake and lead them in. This avoids the confusion, especially if the stopping point is close to a junction as in your case. Maybe suggest this on your next run. I've not had the time to read all the other comments so please forgive me if I'm repeating the advice. If you were my Associate I would be saying that currently your biggest barrier to improvement is in your machine control, especially at low speeds. You exhibit an inability to make tight turns that makes you cut the apex on rights (the black Range Rover) or turn early and run wide on the left. You also ran to the far left of the carriageway when turning right out of the blind T junction. If you can master turning the bike tight at slow speeds all of these issues will disappear and it will pay dividends as the speed increases. There are plenty of videos on YT demonstrating the correct technique (try Fast Eddies Motorcycle Fun - How to U-Turn a Motorcycle) but the basics are, set a steady throttle, feather the clutch and keep your head up and looking in the direction you want to go (so not at the tarmac three feet in front of your tyre). You can slow things down and add a little more control by gently squeezing the rear brake but I would save that as part 2 after you have mastered controlling you speed with the clutch alone. To make a tight turn you will need to lean the bike underneath you (again little by little), keep your body upright or even leaned a little to the outside of the turn to balance the lean of the bike. Hope this helps, keep it up Chris

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Chris, nice to hear from you again - missed your input actually. Looks like your a busy man. I'm doing BikeSafe myself in August here in Northants and will film it. I'm curious about how the day actually compares with IAM. I'm probably putting the cart before the horse but it will be great to meet some police bikers, a rare sight indeed in my county. I've never seen one here since I started back in November amazingly. Take your point on observes, and like you say I'll mention this next time. For me though, disciplined use of radio has to be the way forward. The principle objection seems to be 'that's the way it's always been'. You're spot-on with the slow control thing, and I know it's a weakness. Thanks so much for the guidance. Like everything else I tend to over complicate things. I've been trying to do it all and use the rear brake, so probably running before I can walk.

@MotorSportsFan46

6 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike as a trainer I'm sure that you know that broad brush is fine for things that the student doesn't find too challenging but the best way to make progress when the student is struggling is to simplify the skill into its constituent parts. It may be worth finding a space where you can ride in straight lines for some distance maintaining a constant throttle (say around 2k rpm) and just modulate the clutch to vary your speed. At times coming almost to a halt and then smoothly feed in a little clutch to start moving again. Once you have a grip on finessing the clutch try pushing the bars one side and then the other (contrary to some beliefs counter steering works at low speed) to start riding some lazy "S" curves. Build the pressure on on the bars to tighten the turns so that you are doing a slalom. Pay attention to how the bike leans one way and then the other even at low speed, be aware of how this influences the radius of the turns. Now switch to doing circles, large diameter at first. Pick a fixed point as your centre of rotation and keep your eyes on it. Still keeping the fixed throttle try varying your speed with the clutch while maintaining the same lean angle (less speed will tighten the turns). Now maintaining a constant speed apply a little pressure to the inside bar (again the radius will tighten). Now try the same but in the opposite direction. Practicing these drills where you adjust one variable at a time will develop the feel and confidence that you currently lack. It's not something that you can fix in ten minutes it requires hours but you have already demonstrated your willingness to learn so I'm certain that you can crack it. I wish I could get my hands on you for a day (in the nicest possible sense).

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Chris Kelly really appreciate your detailed plan Chris.particularly during a World Cup quarter final too. I will definitely take this away and work on it. Deconstruction of the skill into its components is really helpful. I've watched many of these videos that show you how to do the slow turns, but you're describing it here in a new, clearer way. I might even make a video ... You clearly love your chosen discipline and are prepared to promote it. More power to you sir and thanks once again.

@MotorSportsFan46

6 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike I look forward to the video 😉

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

OK. Started work on this. Found a venue, codified your 'procedure'. Watched the video you recommended (but don't fancy dropping my bike 7 more times :-0. Lots of reps on the way. 10,000x and I've cracked it ('Talent Code' Daniel Coyle).

I did my IAM 10yrs ago and from what I understood back then. The observer using his indicators to direct you is to get you into the habit of checking your mirrors when approaching a junction as junctions are considered to be hazards. If someone was to pull out in front of you, it's I important to know what's behind and how far when deciding what action to take in order to avoid being rear ended

@Back2TheBike

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Tony. Yes, I get that, but felt in certain circumstances it simply doesnt work. Particularly when passing through a complex or busy junction when eyes should really be assessing upcoming hazards, or bright/shiny days when you just can't make out the signal in your mirrors. I train people in risk management and feel the benefit doesnt always exceed the distraction from what's ahead. Having said that I'm better at using my mirrors now 😎

Very interesting, having passed my IAM test recently (a first) I 100% agree with you about the archaic use of rear signals. I had many moments on my training like yours where confusion about directions would interfere with the ride. You are misinformed about that is how the test must be conducted. My extremely experienced and qualified examiner used Bluetooth headsets for my test, when I mentioned this he replied, " the technology is there, why not use it"? As a result he could really put me through my paces with regards the route we took on the test and especially in town work where there was many many twists and turns! As you ride with Northampton IAM and use many roads not too far from me you might well end up being tested by the same chap, good luck!

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Wow, that's good news Clive! Makes much more sense doesn't it? Congrats on your 1st BTW, and you just made me feel much better. Thanks for putting me straight on this. Now, what was your test route ......... ;-) ha!

@davidthomas6681

6 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike can take you round the test route i had some time if that's any help 😉

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for that David. You're local then?

@davidthomas6681

6 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike i am indeed, live near Overstone/Moulton Park so the Obelisk is about 10 min ride away

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

David Thomas thanks David. Maybe when the brotherhood tell me I'm nearly ready?

I can't believe that with the technology available all the instructors are not using comms systems.

What software do you use to edit your videos for KZread?

@seaflyfisher

6 жыл бұрын

I was going to ask him that too Mike - I use Corel Video Studio Pro which is pretty good but always interested to see other packages are about

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Mike Roberts Hi Mike, I use PowerDirector 15. Doesn't work with Benellis though, so you'll be fine. Seriously, it's quite intuitive, doesn't crash, and there are loads of 'how to's' on KZread. I'm probably slightly more skilful on the software than I am on the bike. I've just as bad at both :-0

@seaflyfisher

6 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike - I had a problem with the Corel VSP when it crashed - I couldn't do anything with it and tried to remove and reinstall it - even though it says it's uninstalled it leaves spurious little files that interfere with the fresh install - Corel had to send me a file to remove it but the whole thing took ages and was very frustrating - their customer service was awful - got it sorted though and I do like the programme - I tried a Sony editor too but didn't really get on with it so easily - I like the time lapse features on Corel - makes it perfect for filming stuff like BMWs B-)

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

seaflyfisher PowerDirector is even better. It allows you to speed things up which was useful when Im editing your Benelli ...

Nothing wrong with crossing the broken white line to better your view, if safe to do so?

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Mr Anderson in fairness I think it was where there was no need for it, so probably a fair criticism. I guess we cross them all the time when we have to, for example when I'm in Kimbolton with parked cars either side.

@MaxHeadRush

6 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike check out advancrdbiker around the snake pass

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Mr Anderson thanks, will do!

@motorvelo

5 жыл бұрын

IAM states that you should never cross a white line to seek a better view. However you can to straight line a series of bends where you already have a view. If you need to cross a white line for better view then what happens if that ether view places you in conflict with a approaching vehicle. On UK roads at UK speed limits your side of the road gives you sufficient view to allow you to stop safely on your side of the road.

Nice ride again, great video Surprised at your lane change at 1.00. At that point there was no need to move to the right lane, as you weren't overtaking anyone or turning right. Your action caused the yellow SEAT to undertake you, as clearly he was moving faster than you were. As a car driving instructor I can tell you that sadly a lot of pupils fail their dvsa driving test for that, under lane discipline. As I keen lifelong motorcyclist I've taken a lot of positives from these videos, apart from this obsession with progress and taking the shortest queue. This will often lead to you being harassed from behind by motorists disobeying speed limits. As happens with my learners if they wander to the right hand lane on seeing a busy left hand lane.

With no voice communication for directions relying on indicator signals only I’d miss lots on my Kawasaki SX as the rear view isn’t great tbh.

@Back2TheBike

5 жыл бұрын

Charles Taylor Hi Charles. The same on my RT when it's wet, that's why I fitted the additional mirrors. So many threats come from behind, if you can't track then assess them (entering/exiting speed limits, junctions, roundabouts, motorways, dual carriageways etc) your placing yourself at risk. Worth a thought?

@charlestaylor4447

5 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike. I agree with you, great videos I’m really enjoying them and learning from them, as they say everyday is a learning day.

You certainly had a tough ride there Neil I especially winced on the "madly" laid out roundabout when the 4x4 sped round the wrong way right across your lane .Very poor and inconsiderate driving on their part, just an accident looking for a place to happen.The other bikes were certainly a distraction and you have to not fall into the trap of following their style of riding i.e. lazy cornering but ride how your training dictates. Driving from the back does seems very archaic but I guess its to enforce the use of mirrors which can at times as you have found, overload your input whilst concentrating. That said the session helps you in the long run, because now you have faced these tougher situations and taken the feedback onboard you can work to resolve it to play out better next time.After all if it was that easy to ride safely we would all be superb riders and not just think we are.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Yes, I can think of at least 10 'critical incidents' (as trainers call them) from this ride. You make a good point about 'train hard - game easy' as they say in sport too, about the mirrors, and I get that. It's not so much the overload though (as that improves with practice), but I genuinely feel in some situations it's just not possible to see or interpret the signal, and I think it's frustrating for associate and observer. Again, no reflection on the observer, but it seems like threading a needle with boxing gloves on when there is tech available that would solve it.

@Arachnoid_of_the_underverse

6 жыл бұрын

Yes just to add Id suggest if they wanted to say stop at a lay by rather than turn it should include an additional hand signal to differentiate the two. Im assuming but you would have to ask the observers, that they check to see if they are visible in your side mirrors before they indicate and then try to stay in your sightline long enough for your checks to pick it up.

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

Agree, but in this situation I was up to speed as I passed the lay-by. Might have helped me differentiate what followed though! As you know Andi, I need all the help I can get ;-)

@Arachnoid_of_the_underverse

6 жыл бұрын

Now now there were at least two other worse drivers in the video LOL :D

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

That's a comfort - very funny ;-)

A couple of times I'd have used the horn to warn of my presence. However, video seen is rarely as exactly seen by rider so unless observer commented on it, guess it was not needed. Re being guided by indicators from behind: I support the method. On the approach to any haqzard, first thing you do is a mirror check, right? Junction ahead, check mirror see observer's signal. Oh ... the junction wasn't signed and was hidden around a bend? Well, bend is a hazard, did you not check your mirrors on approach? This is why I support the current system 'cos it gets one into the habit of automatically checking mirrors on the approach to all junctions (and all hazards) which serves us well. After all, if you have to suddenly and unexpectedly take avoiding action, and have to either swerve or slam on the anchors wouldn't it be useful to know what is behind you? Which reminds me ... has opposite or reverse steering been mentioned yet? I ask, 'cos 'tis useful for a v. quick change of direction at speed. One thing made me smile. Having sorted out maintaining a crown position all the way round a left hander, you now have a li'l niggle keeping close to the kerb on a tight, blind, right hander. (Horn would have been useful there, just in case) Mebbe lower speed? While making good progress is required, 'tis secondary to safety. And you know what? No need to get flustered, these things, don't (apart from your safety) matter! You are being observed, not tested! Well, of course they matter but when you get it wrong just laugh, shrug, and carry on. What is important is that *you recognised you got it wrong* , lesson learned! I see Observed Ride #9 is up. Just realised the date of this one was June? You've probably taken the test by now?

I must say that’s clunky gearbox you have.

Could see you got pissed of after the signal misses and started to get out of rhythm, prefer comm rather than looking fir signals

@Back2TheBike

6 жыл бұрын

mario tsourou yes, I didn't help myself much. Maybe need more mirrors!?

@maz2496

6 жыл бұрын

Back2TheBike I’m doing my Iam to, personally think should be concentrating on riding rather than thinking of signals all the time, comm system problem solved and come where observer. Just talks

The reason for getting directions from an observers indicators is to make you look in your mirrors before every hazard. A radio would take away this important skill.

@Back2TheBike

3 жыл бұрын

I agree to a point, but in certain circumstances, say crossing a busy multi-exit roundabout or with full sun in your 6 position, it increases risk.