tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post1508558268195933189..comments2024-03-28T20:30:35.448+13:00Comments on Confessions of an Ageing Motorcyclist: Raising my riding skills - some reflectionsGeoff Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-63217345865476933762011-11-28T14:34:13.194+13:002011-11-28T14:34:13.194+13:00Dar:
Way to go!! I rode in jeans a lot until 20-o...Dar:<br />Way to go!! I rode in jeans a lot until 20-odd years ago and cringe when I think about it. Good for you in terms of ATGATT and training. God training allows you to control situations which could have intimidated you and put you at more risk. Looking forward to hearing how you get on.Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-13923648463561993362011-11-28T14:10:49.955+13:002011-11-28T14:10:49.955+13:00Geoff
In my class of 10 - 6 were females. I have...Geoff<br /><br />In my class of 10 - 6 were females. I have been riding pillion for 28 years on my hubs bike,. In January I decided to purchase a 50cc scooter, I wiped out on the test drive, got back up & rode. I was voraciously reading everything I could because I was untrained. I discovered early on that ATTGAT is only way to ride. After putting around on my wee scooter I knew I needed to take a motorcycle course and learn to ride properly and safely and this is where I am today a happy motoing diva.Dar https://www.blogger.com/profile/14690180541358767168noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-21062662196209481172011-11-26T19:36:56.921+13:002011-11-26T19:36:56.921+13:00Hi Dar - thank you very much for dropping by!
I m...Hi Dar - thank you very much for dropping by!<br /><br />I must say that I'm extremely impressed with your attitude given that you say you're new to motorcycling. That's a rare trait, certainly in New Zealand but maybe elsewhere too. Long may you continue as learning NEVER stops. I just looked up your profile as I'd seen you post on some of my Canadian friend's blogs and note that you're female which explains a lot! In all honesty, one major problem which seems to inhibit training is a guy's testosterone which is a real shame. We should hang our heads...<br /><br />Very best wishes for your on-going training,<br /><br />GeoffGeoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-81828258221779499582011-11-26T19:20:59.310+13:002011-11-26T19:20:59.310+13:00Geoff - very interesting post on your journey. I ...Geoff - very interesting post on your journey. I am new motorcyclist and enrolled in a Novice course and a traffic course in October. It wasn't as extensive as what you have completed, but it has given me basic knowledge and skill set that has me safely out on the road. I am committed to learning and realize I have a long way to go yet motorcycle wise. I think as motorcyclists it is our responsibility to ourselves and loved ones to continue learning and upgrading. I don't kid myself about the dangers in traffic and know all too well what can happen as I work in the medical field. I routinely go out and practice my skills in a parkinglot because I want to be the best I can be when I am out in traffic. I just recently went to a winter/wet weather riding workshop and learned a lot. I think next year I am going to take an advanced riders course to hone my skills even further. Along with skills I have learned the importance of good gear and riding ATTGAT - even an a short jaunt. I think it is very admirable what you are doing and wonderful that you are going to be an observer/examiner - this is what motorcycling needs people who are committed to the betterment of riding through good sound skills and aren't afraid to admit that they need to refresh. You don't get many second chances when you are sharing your space with cars.Dar https://www.blogger.com/profile/14690180541358767168noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-60338979392754085992011-11-24T17:55:57.141+13:002011-11-24T17:55:57.141+13:00Roger:
Thanks mate, knew you'd understand comp...Roger:<br />Thanks mate, knew you'd understand completely. Yep, the IAM "system" takes away all the disparities and even when you want to show a bit less restraint, the system is still there to govern how you ride.<br /><br />Your comments about humility have really got to the core of the matter - bloody well said. That's really at the heart of why I felt relief rather than making a big deal from it. <br /><br />Catch ya Sunday!Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-23216386124539330622011-11-24T17:44:33.711+13:002011-11-24T17:44:33.711+13:00I know a very late reply on my behalf. I really w...I know a very late reply on my behalf. I really wasnt sure what to say. Every thing you have talked about and your journey I relate to, as you well know. You were certainly a more advanced rider than I was when we started this journey, <br /><br />You have an amazing gift of putting things down so well in writte format. <br /><br />One of the things I have enjoyed most about IAM is the feeling of riding to a system, and feeling confident and more in control of what i am doing. ONce upon a time I would of been nervous riding with you and all your years on a bike. Not so now, because we are both riding to the same system. <br /><br />I was always amazed that by showing restraint , I seem to ride smoother and am far more relaxed, yet more alert. I am enjoyng my riding more than ever. Hopefully, one day soon, I may be able to wright a post like this. <br /><br />For me to, humility has paid a big part in my training, I have never been afraid to accept correction and have been open to learning. This is the first part of becoming a good rider. Interesting the first chapter in "Handcraft" talks about this very topic.<br /><br />Well done mate.Rogerhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12048736059922578612noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-48195395771546407742011-11-24T06:49:40.556+13:002011-11-24T06:49:40.556+13:00Right you are Lori - coming your way when I've...Right you are Lori - coming your way when I've had breakfast and a shave!Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-21001593236187989972011-11-24T05:39:12.976+13:002011-11-24T05:39:12.976+13:00King or Queen Mother gets to examine the Examiners...King or Queen Mother gets to examine the Examiners. ;)<br /><br />YES! I would love to see the manual. I'm hoping Santa brings a couple of the previously recommended books this year, as well. ;)BeemerGirlhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15239761274177026636noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-31839469329886360652011-11-23T22:45:59.925+13:002011-11-23T22:45:59.925+13:00Thank you Kari - just got to get into the right he...Thank you Kari - just got to get into the right headspace for the next bit of the journey now!Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-5775492685457092012011-11-23T21:23:58.999+13:002011-11-23T21:23:58.999+13:00Nice recap of your journey down this path, and you...Nice recap of your journey down this path, and your thoughts about it all. Congratulations on your success, and kudos on the desire to give back. That's awesome!Bluekathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13485258388887249275noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-74174315227742283032011-11-23T10:10:26.159+13:002011-11-23T10:10:26.159+13:00Anthony - thanks so much mate, it's been quite...Anthony - thanks so much mate, it's been quite a journey and the next stage is going to be far from easy either.<br /><br />Oh ha de ha!!! The road has been too demanding to get any fancy notions and even if I did, the Examiners would be quick to kick it out of me :-). I do get a hi-viz jacket with the IAM insignia on though which I'll be extremely proud to wear.<br /><br />As well as your coffee, don't forget the rest of your medication, hehe! That's disgustingly early mate, preparing to fleece some poor client with outrageous professional charges? ;-)<br /><br />You have a fantastic week too!Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-90843061989087780472011-11-23T09:57:20.850+13:002011-11-23T09:57:20.850+13:00Awesome news Geoff....so happy for your acheivemen...Awesome news Geoff....so happy for your acheivement. Well done.<br /><br />Do you get to put the letters IAM after your name to look important now? Or perhaps you could add it before your name with a dot after the "I".... and your official title will now be: <br /><br />I.Am Geoff James: Motorcyclist<br /><br />I've been at work since 6:30 and haven't had enough coffee yet.... :) Have an awesome week mate.Anthonyhttp://anthonyparker1.wordpress.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-62970154439149090482011-11-22T16:15:56.439+13:002011-11-22T16:15:56.439+13:00Lori:
With any luck, I'll be "Trainee Obs...Lori:<br />With any luck, I'll be "Trainee Observing" Roger or myother mate Andy on Sunday and putting them on edge :-).<br /><br />And an excellent question it is too! The Observers have to re-qualify every 2 years, tested by the Examiners or Chief Examiner. I don't know who re-tests the latter group simply because I haven't asked. If you ever wanted to look at the revised admin manual I'm putting together with the Chief Examiner on testing criteria and processes, just ask!Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-27926567595246979792011-11-22T15:45:30.643+13:002011-11-22T15:45:30.643+13:00If we had IAM training here I would be all over it...If we had IAM training here I would be all over it. I like the format. So...congratulations on seeing it through and eventually having a little fun.<br /><br />But one question: who keeps the skills of the Observers up-to-date? ;) As an Observer, do you have to periodically be "observed" to verify you are maintaining your skills?BeemerGirlhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15239761274177026636noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-42793206532230575582011-11-21T17:38:13.360+13:002011-11-21T17:38:13.360+13:00Thanks very much Jon! There's an ex-UK IAM in...Thanks very much Jon! There's an ex-UK IAM instructor (pretty sure he is) who emigrated to WA a couple of years ago (Bob Pinder by name), I think he's still in the business over there. I love the on-going nature of IAM - means you can't slack off!<br /><br />Planning to visit WA next April for the first time to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. Margaret River right through to Broome. Done most of the East Coast and looking forward to heading west.<br /><br />Safe riding and thanks for dropping in!Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-76592689755911440872011-11-21T17:16:01.756+13:002011-11-21T17:16:01.756+13:00Interesting post Geoff. It might just be enough to...Interesting post Geoff. It might just be enough to get me off my bum and start to see what is available over here (W.A.) I've done a couple of 1 day courses, but, good though they may be - always leave me feeling somewhat...deficient.<br />Basic motor skills are all well and good, but, judgement seems to be something which is sorely lacking in most riders - incl. the missus, who has been riding since she was 14!<br />Good to see you've cleared the first major hurdle.JonLhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04101897631145411071noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-6304262565430857222011-11-21T08:47:11.381+13:002011-11-21T08:47:11.381+13:00Knikos, hehe!
You've hit the nail on the head...Knikos, hehe!<br /><br />You've hit the nail on the head! A Ducati which passed us during the test over a blind crest made me grind my teeth. The average rider might be better than the average car driver, but there's still an awful lot of room for improvement!<br /><br />David!!!<br />Thanks so much for dropping in! I think being a catalyst and inspiring people to want to do better is the ultimate use of your knowledge and experience. Guess that I'm fortunate that being retired, I have time to put something back into a pastime which is a passion. I agree with getting more out of it - never stop learning.Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-47224419104837576632011-11-21T08:39:22.265+13:002011-11-21T08:39:22.265+13:00Dylan:
Thanks so much for all your encouragement, ...Dylan:<br />Thanks so much for all your encouragement, especially when I hit the inevitable low points! Really looking forward to the next stage.<br /><br />I'm going to take my time choosing a comms system as both that I've used so far have had some issues, albeit relatively minor.<br /><br />Sonja:<br />That's really kind and thanks so much. Knowing what I do now, there's been a fair element of the last 40 years experience being 1 year repeated 40 times. This year has been massive and it's hopefully going to get even better!Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-37987710193695613352011-11-21T07:05:25.780+13:002011-11-21T07:05:25.780+13:00Thanks so much Trobairitz, it's very much appr...Thanks so much Trobairitz, it's very much appreciated. Up to now, the focus has been on riding consistently enough to pass, but writing this particular post has been a good emotional release by thinking about some of the things which helped me to raise my standards. I guess Troubadour is experiencing exactly the same things on his journey.<br /><br />Thanks again!Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-56136141664128505012011-11-21T06:57:01.321+13:002011-11-21T06:57:01.321+13:00Geoff,
THanks for the kind words. I guess I am s...Geoff, <br /><br />THanks for the kind words. I guess I am sort of a catylist--or perhaps a co-conspiritor in getting motorcyclists to gain knowledge and skill.<br /><br />But I applaud your move to position yourself to help other riders. If you haven't discovered this so far, you will soon realize that the more you try to give yourself away, the more you gain personally. Or, to put this another way, "the teacher always gains more than the student."<br /><br />David L. HoughAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-32933743105515492002011-11-21T06:16:25.152+13:002011-11-21T06:16:25.152+13:00I know I've said it before, but I'll say i...I know I've said it before, but I'll say it again: Congratulations on your successful completion of the IAM membership test last Friday. Your commitment is commendable.<br /><br />I think this paragraph you wrote sums it all up perfectly and what we should all strive for: "I don’t ride anywhere nearly as fast as pre-IAM days. The biggest thrill comes from riding well, not breaking speed limits by a large margin. On the few occasions nowadays when riding fast for a bit of fun, the IAM skills are always there to make good judgement calls about how fast and where you do it."<br /><br />That paragraph more than any of the others in this post stand out to me. Well said Geoff, well said.Trobairitzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03453398807198746434noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-76968426687510722842011-11-21T05:56:19.652+13:002011-11-21T05:56:19.652+13:00Geoff
I like your study in contemplation aka admi...Geoff<br /><br />I like your study in contemplation aka admiring the fantatsic view!<br /><br />Whilst you mention that this training makes you aware of the poor level of skill of the average road user, this is particularly true of seeing other bikers behaving stupidly! I witnessed some guy on the M6 recently undertaking traffic across all three lanes like a slalom show. Of course he was wearing a hi viz jacket but I did not notice a green badge on his fairing!<br /><br />All the best from Cheshire, NKnut from Nikossfordhttp://nikoscosmos.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-83768681238926079532011-11-21T05:22:47.538+13:002011-11-21T05:22:47.538+13:00Geoff, that first picture is certainly header-wort...Geoff, that first picture is certainly header-worthy. <br />I do admire your decision to begin and pull through with the IAM training. Others would have said, with so many years of practical experience nothing needs to be learned.<br />What you have done is inspiring for the motorcycle community.SonjaMhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12389245948579828531noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-27591343005915340102011-11-21T04:12:58.343+13:002011-11-21T04:12:58.343+13:00That is indeed an excellent and well thought out p...That is indeed an excellent and well thought out post Geoff and thank you for sharing it with us. Feed back is so so important to the Observer, (as you are soon to find out)it is the only way he/she can evaluate their own continuous improvement. I have no doubts whatsoever that the IAM have just gained a valuable advanced motorcycling trainee Observer. I also look forward to your choice (Kiwi style)of Communications systems.......Commentry/Demonstration rides here we come.......Dylanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10767788297417482616noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4341114511830074977.post-16533377687496900512011-11-20T21:51:45.956+13:002011-11-20T21:51:45.956+13:00Jules:
Many thanks mate! A way to go yet!Jules:<br />Many thanks mate! A way to go yet!Geoff Jameshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05041523109817248619noreply@blogger.com