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| These are a few of the common questions asked and our attempt to answer them. If you don’t see your question here or just want more information, please feel free to contact any of the Committee Members, who will be happy to help. |
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Who are FAM and what do you do?
OK, I want to improve my riding. What now? I'm not yet convinced. How can FAM help? I'm already an Advanced Rider and new to the area. What can FAM do for me? |
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Who are FAM and what do you do? We are a group of motorcycle enthusiasts affiliated to both the Institute of Advance Motorists and the British Motorcycle Federation. We are a non-profit making registered charity (No. 1101739) whose primary aim is to promote road safety and motorcycle awareness. The way we achieve this is by preparing associate members by increasing their skill levels and riding enjoyment with the ultimate aim of passing the Advanced Motorcycle Test. Our members are of all ages, come from all walks of life and ride all types of bikes, from Honda to Harley! We meet on the second Monday of each month at 7:30pm at the Chequers Public House in Wimbotsham near to Downham Market. During the ‘summer’ months we have group rides on these evenings as well as weekends, just check the What’s On page.
In a nutshell, Advanced Riders are more aware of their surroundings on the road giving them the ability to anticipate and react to situations as they occur. This is achieved through correct road positioning by using the natural agility of your motorcycle to maintain the best view of the road ahead. As a result, the Advanced Rider makes ‘quiet, efficient progress’, getting from A to B quickly, enjoyably and most importantly safely. To get you to this standard you will be assigned an ‘observer’. All of our observers have taken the Advanced Test and will prepare you, over a period of time, until you are ready for a ‘check ride’ with a ‘Senior Observer’, who will assess your riding and advise you whether you are ready for your test.
The test lasts for about 90 minutes and covers around 30-40 miles on roads of all types where available. The examiner will hold a Police Advanced Riding Certificate (either serving or ex Police Class 1 rider). The test gives a thorough work out of riding ability on roads that vary from quiet country lanes to busy town centres, giving the candidate a chance to ‘show off’ their new skills. This allows the candidate to give brisk, smooth riding at legal speed limits on the open road. During the test, among other things, you will be expected to: Be safe, positive and relaxed Use observation and planning to anticipate hazards Ride in a smooth, progressive and flowing way
To take your test you have to sign up to the IAM’s ‘Skills for Life’ Package which currently costs £85, or £75 if you are under 26. For this, you get a copy of ‘How to be an Advanced Motorcyclist’, your first year’s membership of the IAM and Fenland Advanced Motorcyclists and your Test when you are ready.
'How to be an Advanced Motorcyclist’ gives you all of the information required to help you pass your test, however it is recommended that you invest in a copy of ‘Motorcycle Roadcraft’ which costs around £12 and is the Police riders “bible”. It is also a good idea to ensure you have the latest copy of the Highway Code – you’ll be surprised how much you’ve forgotten! As all of our observers are volunteers and giving up their own time, all we ask is that you give a contribution to their expenses after each observed ride.
You get to meet like minded people who, first and foremost, enjoy riding bikes. We have a good social side including pub meets, Seasonal functions and plenty of ride outs, and we are always interested in new ideas for events. As well as being a smoother, quicker and safer rider, it could even save you a bit of money as most insurance companies recognise these extra skills and may offer discounts to your premium!
OK, I want to improve my riding. What now? You can buy a ‘Skills for Life’ package now or contact our Membership Secretary or any other committee member and we will get you onto the next available course.
I’m not yet convinced. How can FAM help? The best way is to come along to the Chequers Public House on the second Monday of any month (please see 'What’s on' first) by 7:30pm and make yourself known to a committee member and we can arrange an assessment ride, which will give you a better idea of what we are about.
I’m already an Advanced Rider and new to the area. What can FAM do for me? Just turn up and make yourself known to a committee member or contact the Membership Secretary for more details. We have a good social calendar with regular ride outs; just check the ‘What’s on’ page. We are always looking for more observers, so if you feel that you can help please contact us.
But I don't want to pass a test to join a club! In that case just turn up and make yourself known to a committee member or contact the Membership Secretary for more details. We have a good social calendar with regular ride outs; just check the ‘What’s on’ page. You can come along on a couple of rides and decide whether you want to join as a 'Friend' member. All you'll have to pay is the normal annual membership fee.
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