York Advanced Motorcyclists

Frequently Asked Questions

Here we will provide answers to some of the commonly asked questions.  If you have any questions you would like to see answered on this page, please email webmaster@yamonline.org.uk

• What is the Disclaimer and when should it be given?

• What is IDEALISM?

• What does POWDER stand for?

• What is the System of Motorcycle Control?

• What happens once I’ve passed my Advanced Test?

• Who will train me to pass my Advanced Test?

• I’ve noticed there are different categories of Observers, what is the difference?

• What do I do in the event of an accident whilst on an observed ride?

What is the Disclaimer and when should it be given?

Any Observer in this club taking out an associate as part of the introductory briefing will always give the disclaimer as this is part of the Motorcycle Observer’s Introductory Drill commonly known as IDEALISM.  The disclaimer is:

I understand that I am deemed to be in control of my own vehicle at all times, and neither the group known as York Advanced Motorcyclists or my observer are responsible for my actions. My Vehicle is also in a roadworthy condition, is properly insured and complies with all the appropriate legal requirements. I also understand that it is my responsibility to ensure that I have a current driving licence for the vehicle I am riding. I will comply with all the appropriate laws and regulations governing my vehicle and the rules of the Highway Code.

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What is IDEALISM?

IDEALISM is the mnemonic used to assist Observers to remember the Motorcycle Observer’s Introductory Drill. Its full meaning is:

I...ntroduction

D...eclaration (Disclaimer)

E...xplanation

A...head only (Awareness)

L...ook for

I...n for test

S...ystem

M...achine

More detail can be found in the Motorcycle Observer Qualification - A Guide p12.  Please note that the Motorcycle Observer Training Manual p32 suggests A for Awareness and D is for Disclaimer.  The club will accept either version.

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What does POWDER stand for?

Before you start your journey you should ensure that your machine is roadworthy and carry out a number of checks.  A useful aid to remember the key points to check is the mnemonic POWDER.  This stands for:

P...etrol

O...il

W...ater

D ... amage/drive chain/destination

E...lectrics

R...ubber

More detail can be found in HTBABR p23 and Roadcraft p172.

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What is the System of Motorcycle Control?

The system promotes careful observation, early anticipation and planning, and a systematic use of the controls to achieve maximum machine stability. It is a systematic way of dealing with an unpredictable environment. It is central to Motorcycle Roadcraft, drawing together all other riding skills in a coordinated response to road and traffic conditions. It gives you the time to select the best position, speed and gear to negotiate the hazards safely and efficiently.  A useful aid to remember the System of Motorcycle Control is the mnemonic IPSGA.  This stands for:

I...nformation

P...osition

S...peed

G...ear

A...cceleration

More detail can be found in HTBABR p26 and Roadcraft p27.

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What happens once I’ve passed my Advanced Test?

First of all congratulations! If you are a member of York Advanced Motorcyclists, when you have passed your test, you will be moved into Team 5 initially, whereby you can further develop your skills and gain experience of riding with a group of people who have all passed their Advanced Test.

Now that you have passed your IAM Advanced Test, there are a number of options open to you:

• Become a "Qualified Observer"

• Take the IAM Driving/Riding Assessment

• Take the IAM Special Assessment

If you are interested in becoming a Qualified Observer, you should mention this to one of the Senior Observers who will give you more details on what is required and speak to the Chairman of the Training Committee on your behalf.
 

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Who will train me to pass my Advanced Test?

Your observed rides to pass the Advanced Test will be conducted by York Advanced Motorcyclists Observers who have not only taken and passed the Advanced Test themselves, but have consequently improved their own riding to an even higher standard and have been trained as Observers, to effectively pass on that knowledge to others.

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I’ve noticed there are different categories of Observers, what is the difference?

Basically the difference is the level of training they have received and the assessments they have completed. The four categories are: Senior Observer, Qualified Observer, Group Observer and Trainee Observer. For further details see Motorcycle Observers Training Manual p25 onwards.
 

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What do I do in the event of an accident whilst on an observed ride?

Actions to be considered in the event of an accident:

1. Take control. Make safe, prevent further injury or damage.  Do not put yourself or others in danger.
2. Get help. Call 999 if necessary.

3. Save life. Give first aid if appropriate.  Remember your ABC – Airway, Breathing and Circulation.

4. Take details. Witnesses, other vehicles and police officer(s) dealing.  If you have a camera, take photos when all casualties have been dealt with.

5. If the injured party is a YAM member and is taken in an ambulance, find out which hospital they are being taken to and be prepared to go with them if possible.

6. Inform the injured party’s partner without causing undue alarm.  If police have attended, liaise with dealing officer as they may wish to relay this news.

7. Arrange for bike recovery or secure on site.

8. Inform team leader (senior observer) as soon as possible.

9. Inform the Group Secretary within 2 days of incident.
 

For more information on accident scene management to go http://www.bikesafe.co.uk/bikesafe/firstaid/scene.html

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