IAM Advanced Rider Training - Observed Ride #1

I've come back to motorcycling after a 37 year break.
My ambition was to be able to ride a powerful bike to the same standard as a Class 1 Police Rider. Whilst I may never hit that goal, I want to be safe, have fun and squeeze the maximum potential from my R1200RT.
Here's a taste of my first observed ride with the UK Institute of Advanced Motorists on their IAM RoadSmart 'Advanced Rider' Scheme. My instructor was kind enough to allow me to film his input, and you'll definitely learn from him.
Note: these videos are neither sponsored nor approved by IAM, and WON'T REPLACE a structured motorcycling course. I'd like to encourage those of you who haven't done so to sign up to the equivalent where you are. If my experience is anything to go on, you won't be disappointed.
Ride Safe.
Useful Links:
IAM RoadSmart www.iamroadsma...
#IAMRoadSmart #IAMAdvancedRider

[@oldfartuk]

I admire your self riding honestly .. it's a very good trait to have ..even if you "seasoned rider" ..as self assessment from time to time is very important to keep your skills sharp .another good way is to watch your own riding videos to understand what you doing right or wrong ..that's what i do

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks. The tip I was given by an ex pro rider was the best way to stay sharp is to self commentate. What can I see? What am I going to do about it? I try to do at least 15 mins a ride even if not filming.

[@stephh9944]

My sister passed her advanced test a couple of years back, and I've returned to riding after about 12 years' break, and she inspired me to book in for a taster session today. In about 30 mins, I need to tog up and get out there. What amazes me is how much of the road that advanced riders use and how natural they look. Thanks for posting this! Wish me luck!

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Steph and welcome to B2TB. This film is one of 12 in the IAM boxed set, my complete journey. It took me just under a year. I'd also recommend you sign up to the Seaflyfisher channel and look at his masterclass series. Best instruction on YT IMHO. I dont believe in luck, just prayer and hard work. Keep us posted with your progress and ride safe! BtW if you can get to Motorcycle Live at the NEC the IAM usually do a fantastic deal on membership inc your exam fee.

[@stephh9944]

@@Back2TheBike thank you for the recommendation! I'm back. It went well, some good stuff and some improvements to be made, but I'm pleased. Thanks for the tip about the Bike Show! Happy riding :)

[@davidfarrar1038]

Excellent video, as a rider returning to bikes after a 20 odd year break I see a lot of the things you do, that I have had to keep reminding myself to do. ie relax on the bike, release the death grip on the bars, match the gear to the road speed/conditions. Good luck in your quest.

[@Back2TheBike]

David Farrar Hi David and welcome. I'm still,doing the death grip thing, but at least now with conscious incompetence! One small step ... Ride safe yourself!

[@TheDervMan]

Ive been so looking forward to this video and it didn’t disappoint, absolutely fascinating stuff. Thanks for sharing. 👍🏻

[@Back2TheBike]

Yes, it was an enlightening experience! Glad you enjoyed it dervman ;-)

[@highlandriders9696]

Cheers for posting. I have just started my IAM training for being a Blood Biker and will be watching this series for sure between outings.

[@Back2TheBike]

Hope it comes in useful!

[@highlandriders9696]

@@Back2TheBike Am sure it will. I am very much a learner by doing or watching rather than purely reading.

[@bexhillbiker]

Good for you mate, very rewarding for both the volunteers and the patients while saving the NHS too. It’s what we do!

[@highlandriders9696]

@@bexhillbiker Thanks pal

[@anilrampersad]

Thank you so much for sharing this video. Very informative and helpful. I just passed my MOD2 last week, I’m now thinking to do the advanced course.

[@Back2TheBike]

Well done. Yes, definitely do the advanced training. You'll ride safer, faster and make some new friends too. It's the cheapest, most effective mod you can make to your bike.

[@Tonestravels]

Great video. I got my advanced assessment on Friday. Very helpful.

[@Back2TheBike]

Hope it goes well ...

[@SteffanHarries]

Thanks so much for these videos. I'm a new rider and looking to get onto some advanced riding courses in the future and these videos are only making me want get on them more.

[@Back2TheBike]

Steffan Harries Hi Steffan and welcome to B2TB. I'm glad they're helping you. My mentor is SeaFlyFisher, an ex pro who has helped me greatly. Check out his Masterclass series too. The best on YT IMHO.

[@ed11800578]

Great training video! Providing the instructor with a microphone would further enhance the audio track and the resulting benefit (from the perspective of my 66 yr. old ears.) Please "keep 'em comin' and "Thank you" again.

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks. That's something I'll have to ask about. I'll see what I can do. It will be a couple of weeks or so between this series as I need time to practice before I get the next input.

[@johnfoster7428]

Very helpful video. I was nervous about attending advanced rider training but is reassuring. After watching this I went out for a ride, conscious of the observations and changed my riding position. The small incidental comments resonated and it was a more relaxed ride, exactly as you described.

[@Back2TheBike]

Good stuff John. Now get yourself down to IAM for a free check ride 😃

[@retsillacm101]

Thanks for sharing. I have signed up for this course, which I start in just a few days. Looking forward to it!

[@Back2TheBike]

Philip McAllister Well done that man. You'll be faster, safer and enjoy your riding better.

[@johnfitzgerald4274]

Thank you. Very, very interesting and informative.I would definitely recommend the IAM course.

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi John, thanks for your feedback. Check out the Seaflyfisher Masterclass series. Best on on YT IMHO.

[@Glasshousebc]

Thoroughly enjoying this series matey. Love the ambition noted in your description , class 1 police motorcyclist... ditto. That’s my aim... smooooooth 🤙

[@Back2TheBike]

Glasshousebc great stuff. A long way to go before that is achieved ...

[@jackdaknife]

What a help. I get tired after riding a couple hours. I realise now that I look like some dickhead on a track with my stance. Definitely going to relax more in the future.

[@dominictwist657]

Excellent videos. Got my advanced observed ride booked in a couple of weeks so all the points you raise are very useful. Definitely going to try out the relaxed, shoulders down position next time I’m out as I have a tendency to overgrip resulting in getting tired quickly. Keep up the good work and thank you.

[@rangerover.1971]

Very informative and interesting. As an 'associate' IAM member who is about to begin my observed rides, this is invaluable. Thank you for taking the time to record and post this.

[@Back2TheBike]

I wish this had been available when I started! Make sure you watch the full IAM boxed set and subscribe ;-)

[@bexhillbiker]

Great video. As an imi observer myself, Mark proved to be the perfect ambassador for the IAM. Good luck with the rest of it, I see a F1RST on its way to you come test day

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks ! I took the test about 18 months ago and somehow managed to blag a first. An interesting journey, warts and all, and seems to be helping students, observers, and acting as a recruiting sergeant for IAM too!

[@bexhillbiker]

Back2TheBike I do like it when I’m right!!

[@anthonyhalifax1027]

A bike with an unseated rider carries on because of the gyroscopic effect!

[@Back2TheBike]

Indeed. Theres no doubt my RT rides better without me on it.

[@anthonyhalifax1027]

@@Back2TheBike Until it runs out of momentum, then not so good 🤔😆

[@Capricorn1967]

Excellent video!

[@bluechalk2941]

Very useful, appreciated.

[@bonsaigardenwithmarksander968]

Brilliant videos thank you. Just passed my test and now riding a BMW 1150 RT and loving it. 😀I’m hoping to do my advanced riding

[@Back2TheBike]

Glad they're helping. Follow Seaflyfisher Masterclass series too!

[@CODK-nb6mw]

Flapping you're elbows is good advice, Show's you are relaxed as you speed up going through bends its always a good way to check you are not tensioning up.

[@Back2TheBike]

My problem was further up. I tried flapping, but couldn't until I got the shoulders and elbows right. Tried it today and it does transform the ride. The bike feels so much more agile now. With the balls of my feet on the pegs I feel like a downhill skier. Certainly haven't mastered this yet, much more practice needed.

[@tc5290]

I rode a scrambler as a teen ( a few goes of my brothers), but shit, this guy is good. I’m learning loads hahaha. Thanks for sharing!!!

[@thesmithsmaf]

Great advise from Mark

[@jamesjoyce3005]

Excellent video! Arms position helped me today. Usually after an hour my shoulder aches but not now. Only passed my bike test last year not sure about advanced riding just yet

[@Back2TheBike]

That's good news James. I've still not quite cracked the habit yet, I tend to start off well but relapse! Takes time to unlearn bad habits.

[@bharatc.sampat6406]

Thanks for sharing. Excellent. All those memories come back during training.

[@Back2TheBike]

Glad youre enjoying it. Plenty more to see in the IAM boxed set Bharat.

[@dannytighe2660]

Excellent video

[@haplessfrenchie]

Just signed up to do iam training; really useful video to see what to expect. Sadly, Covid means we can’t stop for tea :(

[@Back2TheBike]

Good stuff. Tea and bacon butty is essential though 😎

[@gdscheiwe01]

Excellent video. Lots of good info. Looking forward to more. Peace!

[@samthesung]

Brilliant video - I've just found your channel and have started watching your videos from the beginning. So informative, I've learnt a lot from the debrief and this video that I will put into practice!

[@Back2TheBike]

Glad they're helping!

[@Bazza47]

Excellent explination from Mark on the correct riding position. Another useful video, thanks.

[@Back2TheBike]

That was a 5 hour session! A huge amount of feedback that totally transformed the way I sit on the bike.

[@Bazza47]

Back2TheBike 5 hours. That shows just how much the Observers are prepared to put in and they do it for free too. My rides were usually about 2 and a half hours in total each week with a break half way for a debrief and feedback on the whole session at the end.

[@ontwowheels7291]

I met Mark on a radio training course for Observers, Northampton Advanced group put it on, I found Mark to be a very clever, intense looking but funny guy! Glad you are enjoying your training! If you ever visit south wales gimme a shout, I'll show you some of our best local roads! Phil - Local Observer with South Wales Advanced Motorcyclists ;)

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks for the offer Phil. I was aware Northants IAM did the radio training. What surprised me was when Mark told me my bottom of the range Scala Rider QZ could transmit and receive, making this comms ride possible.

[@ontwowheels7291]

I've moved on to bluetooth as well now, we use some very reasonably priced sets called V6 and V4 they seem to connect to everything else I have come across! The Audio is good on your vids, if you havent done so yet that would make for a good video, a walk around your equipment ;) And if you have done so already send me the link! I use a no pro sj4000 which I have adapted to take a lapel mic, I throw that in my helmet and it pics me up and anything I get back from the associate, good for feedback and self analysis of their ride, I often let them 'hang themselves' before I get started on what was good or bad ;)

[@Back2TheBike]

I can do that. I learned the basics from a Missenden Flyer video which covers the same ground. I just use a Drift Ghost S with a cheap eBay plug-in mike stuffed into a helmet cheek pad.

[@colvilletitus1020]

I am learning so much from these observes rides. My wife and I are learning to ride and we are being informed of so many tips to use to enhance our riding.

[@Back2TheBike]

Good stuff. Check out the Seaflyfisher masterclass series too. Best on YT.

[@KGowans]

Ennjoyed that. I am about to start the training :)

[@Back2TheBike]

Great stuff. Keep us posted!

[@barriegammidge9122]

Just read the IAM Advanced Motorcyclist Book and looking into doing the test, very useful video.

[@Back2TheBike]

Must be honest I hardly looked at the book Barrie, but found the observed ride outs really helpful. You can get a free observe at any IAM group to give you a taster.

[@richardgiles2484]

Really good video and picked up some good tips 👍

[@Back2TheBike]

Glad you found it helpful Richard. This was very early days in my B2TB journey, very rusty! Still learning ...

[@richardgiles2484]

@@Back2TheBike bit like riding then 🤣 I've been riding more than 45years and I learn something every time I go out. I'm off to Scotland next week and Germany at the end of August 🤞 and one thing I always do before a long trip is watch a few youtube videos showing bike accidents which is always a good wake up call for me on what can happen 🤣 I've always ridden with the attitude everyone is out to kill me and not to trust anyone or assume anything 👍

[@maxjenicscw]

Thanks for this....helped a lot 👍

[@Back2TheBike]

Brilliant. Make sure you binge watch Seaflyfisher Masterclass too ;-)

[@alabotogu6752]

Excellent feedback. I am a newbie and took away the comment on relaxed hand position and balls of feet on the pegs. Thanks

[@Back2TheBike]

Good stuff. Makes a dramatic difference to the handling and lets the bike steer itself.

[@DanielJLopes]

20 minutes of training, and Mark didnt notice you guys are driving on the wrong side of the road! J/K very nice video, well made, fantastic content and nicely edited. I might have to re-view it later, as on long rides, I always had a strugle with my right hand never being relaxed (even with a throttle rocker), maybe I also have my elbows too high!

[@Back2TheBike]

Daniel Lopes Haha very funny Daniel. It's time we sent in the redcoats again to sort out you troublesome Yankees ;-) good to hear from you.

[@reeceporter8344]

Great video and insight into a first observed IAM ride. I'm hoping to get out and meet my local IAM group (Leicestershire) this Saturday. I notice I also have my elbows up too high. I have also recently tried riding with balls of my feet on the pegs... can't believe how much it changed the feel of the bike! Look forward to future videos.

[@Back2TheBike]

You and me both Reece, although it's a tough habit to break! Glad you're enjoying the channel, and thanks for watching.

[@roadglide]

Considering either the new R1250RT or GSA. Both are gorgeous bikes. Great job here.

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks RG. My money's on the RT ;-)

[@mac243877]

Hoping to start mine at end of April, I’m in same boat gap of 14 years from last bike and now 63 yrs. wife thinks I’m mad... she doesn’t understand

[@Back2TheBike]

Welcome back to two wheels. Your better half will notice though how you come home refreshed, reinvigorated and with a big smile of your face ! Take look at the Seaflyfisher Masterclass series, 1-31.

[@richardnicholson3912]

Re the overtake question answer would be only if you safely pass in the distance you can see to be clear and without exceeding the speed limit to get past. If you need to get to 70 or 80 to pass then it a no

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Richard, agreed, although every police rider I've spoken to said as long as you don't flout it and only exceed briefly and safely they don't have a problem. If you go through a camera though you're nicked !

[@AC-id6rf]

Great vid and the training from these organisations is invaluable. IAM and ROSPA both suffer a little by being unrealistic and officious in their application of the Highway Code. Impeding traffic to the extent where you have a queue of cars behind you is more dangerous for the bike rider than the car drivers. When one or more frustrated car driver attempt to overtake you sitting behind that red car you will have made yourself a target and introduced an unnecessary risk for no good purpose other than to ride to an artificial standard. You will be better off making a safe overtake and leaving the possible problem behind you. You will notice that on the motorway, police will drive much slower than the speed limit in order to allow an unambiguous overtake. The other example is at traffic lights where a rider will break the Highway Code by filtering to the front and stopping in the box reserved for cyclists. Stopping in the cyclist reserved space is illegal but safer than filtering and stopping alongside or in the gap between cars. The balance of their training is very good.

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks. Now get yourself over to SeaFlyFisher Masterclass to see how it should be done ;-)

[@AC-id6rf]

Back2TheBike cheers! Watched the first masterclass. A great rider. He did not wait behind his red car : ) I guess that’s my main point IAM examine you on a set of rules that even they don’t follow. Because in the real world this rider breaks the Highway Code by speeding to make an overtake.

[@neilw4881]

Well presented video, thanks👍

[@rogeringle2618]

excellent and in my area...Wollaston down the road from me ive leant a few things now live in Portugal mostly dry roads. uk motorcycling wet roads not nice...well done you passed...makes me want to take the test..

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Roger. We're now trying to get going again post covid. Hope all's well with you.

[@rogeringle2618]

hi..yes all well thanks...I took my bike test about 12years ago..with karmenzbike training they rented a space in Wollaston bike showroom go into july2009 karls blog.ps I was the oldest biker there good fun..ps all rides are cancelled over here

[@AndrewFosterSheff69]

You should already be riding (in effect) no hands, there should be no pressure other than the lightest of touches to steer, so keep your hands around the grip (OBVS), but let go / relax, it's not like a push bike, where you use the handlebars for leverage. As for feet, it's good to know that all my MTB experience has translated exactly, I often wondered about being on the balls of my feet (that just felt right) as you have to move to change gear and rear brake, then move back again, not made any easier in the wet when the soles stick. But hey, I'll keep watching this space for further advice, especially re emergency braking :-)

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Andrew, this is #1 of a boxed set of 12 plus the exam. You'll see my highs and lows, learning and modifying my views all the time. I'm a Heb 12.11 man ;-)

[@richardd9976]

Enjoyed this video and learned a lot. I'm also a returning biker (a 40 year gap) and have an ambition to reach the IAM standard.

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Richard. Interesting. The 40 year gap is something I can identify with! My advice is to take it step by step. Definitely get yourself signed up with IAM or ROSPA, and I'd consider asking someone you know and trust to mentor you. I strongly recommend the SeaFlyFisher channel on YT, his MasterClass series is the best I've seen. Stay in touch, feel free to ask your questions to our resident 'panel' too.

[@richardd9976]

@@Back2TheBike Thanks for the reply - and the pointer towards seaflyfisher. I just watched his first masterclass video, and I like his presentation style so will watch more of those asap. I will be joining my local IAM for their next course in April. Hopefully between now and then, I'll get some miles to practice - as it is great fun.

[@detectoruser]

@@richardd9976 Hi Richard, looks like we are maybe around the same vintage, plus preparing for taking in lots of information, despite having ridden Triumphs since 1965. Brilliant videos, I am also a trainer and I appreciate the no-nonsense humble approach! Bloody cold, wet and windy right now here in Lincolnshire, waiting for a drier spell ..Liam

[@richardd9976]

@@detectoruser Interesting to return to my comment of a year ago. Since making that remark, I'm happy to report that I've been through the IAM training (and fortunately I passed), as well as a blood-bike assessment. I am now riding regularly for my local blood bike group and also undertaking the training as a local observer for my IAM group. Enjoying every minute of it all, although I agree about the weather.

[@MartinDBaker]

Brilliant! I too have an RT (2014 LE), & done IAM observed sessions with both Mark & Dave! Hoping to complete mine late Spring 2019. The view looks strangely familiar! Interested in what camera you have; looks a very good one..

[@Back2TheBike]

Martin Baker Hi Martin, nice to hear from you. Yep, good blokes but Mark has a wicked sense of humour ;-) My cameras a Drift Ghost and is reviewed on my channel if you're interested with a link to Amazon. Say hello next time I'm at IAM.

[@reasonsvoice8554]

Best way I've heard it put for how to grip is you should be able to wiggle your fingers as if your playing piano even mid corner I live near the motorcycle museum and looking into passing my iam next year I think I'm a daily rider on a fireblade been riding 20 years so may aswell do it Just will need to learn to chill and watch speed

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Paul. I reckon its the best upgrade you can make to a bike and youll enjoy it even more.

[@FoxtrotOscar999]

Can't hear the debrief bit!

[@smiley50ish]

Just had a weekend of similar lessons here in wales bike safe and enhanced driving ( Dragon ride ) one was observed one was with voice assistance from instructor . past test in december really learnt a lot thinking of going for the IAM training or rospa love your honest opinions of your riding

[@Back2TheBike]

Good stuff. Either will be of great benefit...

[@smiley50ish]

@@Back2TheBike Starting the IAM advance courses tommorrow so going over your videos again

[@Back2TheBike]

@@smiley50ish Good man. It's a really interesting challenge and will test you, but well worth persevering. Let me know how you get on!

[@mars0030]

Having watched a few of your vids as you settle back into biking, I'm itching to comment on your choice of gears once the bike's up to speed. I'm not a trainer so it's not my place to try to give riding advice, but might be worth asking your trainer to view some of your vlogs for an educated opinion. Must be an exciting time for you! I've been riding a long time and still get so much out of it. Fantastic hobby.

[@Back2TheBike]

Ian M go for it! Weve had quite a debate on the RT Forum and opinions seem to differ. a. rev it up. b. relax the engine. c. a bit of both. Im guilty as charged sometimes forget to change up. your thoughts?

[@mars0030]

I've not seen the forum, but I imagine there are apparently sound reasons and arguements put by different people, maybe for some specific reason relating to the BMW, so I certainly wouldn't criticise, but hence my initial reluctance to come across as yet another expert. I have two bikes, one 700cc twin and the other a 1300cc four, so they are very different animals, but once i've done accelerating and settled on a suitable travelling speed, there seems a natural 'most suitable' gear to be in. At 30mph it might be 3rd or 4th, and 70mph its probably 6th, but of course there are endless factors to influence that. I suppose what I'm saying is that on a straight, half empty motorway when the bike will comfortably sustain top gear, and still have some accel/decel flexibility if needed, why woud I choose to hold on to fourth, or even fifth? Similar logic on any road really. So unless I need stronger 'acceleration sense' and flexibility to speed up and down with more urgency, I'd settle at the highest gear that the bike will comfortably sustain without labouring the engine. These are big torquey motors and will still pull away readily. There is no massive difference between riding a bike and driving a car in terms of gear selection. Would you cruise on a motorway at 70mph in 4th in the car? I suspect you'd go to whatever is the highest gear, and change if neccesary to meet changing circumstances. Who's right? who's wrong? who knows? But after studying Roadcraft, getting your feel back for biking, and having the AIM coaching, I'm sure you'll adopt what's best for you and your bike. Bet you wish you'd never asked!

[@Back2TheBike]

I think you've summed up a very sensible approach there Ian. Seems to be a trade off between traction/engine braking v calming v relaxing the engine, and experience tells you what to do. I'm learning there's more to the 'G' in IPSGA than first appears!

[@CaudilloSilovik]

I notice your instructor has chosen the perfect visibility option for his personal gear. :-) Not to be taken too seriously, please. It is all a matter of taste and options, after all, and nothing substitutes for driving skills, attitude, and experience.

[@Back2TheBike]

Ha, very funny. But can he be seen like me from space? ;-)

[@ThePalmatron]

Really interesting....Thanks!

[@Back2TheBike]

You're welcome. 8 more to go ... ;-) Check out the SeaFlyFisher Masterclass series too - the best on KZbin IMHO.

[@ThePalmatron]

Thanks for the tip off about SeaFlyFisher....Great!!

[@davidking5950]

You have a good instructor there. ..

[@Back2TheBike]

They were all good David, each one bringing their own perspective to the training.

[@tomtilley3162]

another great video it made me think about my riding.elbow's high so yes i'm learning bit's and i'll try it and see how i go?

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks Tom. I'm out today to practice it. It's amazing how it also lightens your grip too.

[@Spuggy0453]

Thanks for putting this up. Interesting and informative. As a matter of interest, I presume you don't have to ride $35,000 worth of bike... but it must help!

[@Back2TheBike]

No need for a posh bike as long as it meets the minimum performance criteria for advanced tuition.

[@Daniel1205Boyd]

Great Video 😊

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks Dan!

[@wallaceshackleton1889]

Intersting video. It would have been better for you to have talked back to yourself what the trainer was doing instead of going over things that you have learned. Not matter what I thnk about the IAM as an organiastion, their bike training course was the best money that I have ever spent on a motorbike. I would recommend it to anyone.

[@Back2TheBike]

This was very early days on the road back to the bike Wallace. Stay with it and you'll see I eventually discover the (now ingrained) habit of self-commentary ;-)

[@robertmoore3806]

When you was about to over take the push bikes, what about the life saver over the right shoulder.All part of advice motorcycle.

[@MrJnr786]

Hi mate just passed my DAS training and mod 1 and 2 I am looking into advanced training I only have a 125 currently but hopefully once affordable get a 650

[@Back2TheBike]

Congratulations! Get into IAM asap, but meanwhile check out my IAM boxed set to get you started.

[@MrJnr786]

@@Back2TheBike I will do bro but I need a 650 to do iam I was told

[@johnblount4159]

Southam to Banbury Road always get stuck behind a 45mph car. Frustrating indeed!

[@RodWebb]

I'm sure it's a good video but unfortunately I can't hear the debriefing ☹️

[@Back2TheBike]

Its faint but if you crank the sound up its audible.

[@tbonemc2118]

Your trainer is right about your foot position but you'll have to train yourself because it isn't natural. On a sportier bike having the balls of your foot on the pegs also increases your leg bend or if you like you're squatting more and for extended periods it's much less comfortable. Modern foot pegs being what they are over extended periods, you'll wish the soles of your riding boots were rigid enough to stop the pressure soreness and go away. Riding with your elbows down also requires a lot of practice because as a species we much prefer supporting our upper body with our arms which is easier to do with locked arms. The finger tip control is very satisfying but the real revelation will be the feedback you gain from the front end through your hands. No longer will you be wondering how much grip you have because you'll be able to feel everything the front tyre is doing. When cornering you'll be able to actually feel it losing it's grip if your going too fast. I like the exercise for those who haven't felt their bike yet to pick a bend you can ride at a moderate speed with some paint marking mid bend like a turning arrow and then ride the bend making sure to ride over the paint. What they feel as they cross the paint is a momentary reduction of grip. The softer your grip the more you'll feel. I'm going to qualify my second comment by saying the most dangerous thing by far most riders do or don't do is have their suspension tuned specifically for them closely followed by not understanding motorbike tyre technology. Every rider will eventually hear a story about someone out riding with their mates even on similar bikes and crash for no apparent reason. Your suspension has only one job which is keeping the wheels on the road and it's imperative you have it tuned to do that. Even new bikes. Poorly tuned suspension gives the rider about the same level of control as turning the handle bars while your bike is on the centre stand. If you buy cheap tyres that will last a long time then you may not live long enough to wear them out.

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks for your advice. Very timely actually as I've just traded the RT for a Monster R, specifically because I want to improve my cornering on a lighter, more agile machine. I'm 2 years on in my learning from this, but still have much to work on.

[@amplify3735]

like the quote re Moses

[@Back2TheBike]

Ha! I look forward to meeting him one day in glory.

[@happytrucker1000]

Nice ride and feed back, sadly mic didn't pick up what the instructor was saying, but interesting video 👍

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks Carl. He wasn't on mic (which was in my helmet) , but was kind enough to allow me to video it. If you turn up the volume a bit you can hear him though.

[@happytrucker1000]

Back2TheBike what area are you riding in?

[@Back2TheBike]

Banbury

[@tc5290]

Would it be fair to say the reason for the tense hands and high arms is anxiety?

[@Back2TheBike]

It was. Not anymore though!

[@Omsracer1]

Just bought myself a 2013 R1200RT and wanted to know where you got the panel protection bars I can see in this video, thanks Pete

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Pete. They came with the bike along with a few other goodies. Krauser, well worth it as I've already dropped it at less than walking pace twice now practising slow speed stuff. They do a great job, as I've proved!

[@DJKav]

Did you get an ex-police spec RT (R1200RT-P)?

[@exsoldier2012]

nice video i have problem with grip just started riding bike month ago and after few minutes on the bike my hands are numb its not comfortable for me

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Marcin. Imagine you were holding an egg lightly. Its the same principle as a golf club. A tighter grip means less control. Id also strongly advise you view the SeaFlyFisher channel. His first 9 Masterclass vids define the 'how not to get killed' basics and really helped me.

[@exsoldier2012]

@@Back2TheBike thank you

[@elegantinfusions]

Ive not been on a bike since 1991, looking to get back on next year, with regards to the left foot, does that mean you move the foot every time to change gear ?

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Paul. Yes, the left foot nudges the gear lever up or down to select a gear. The clutch is the left hand lever on the handlebar.

[@cpuuk]

Wait till you do an off-road course, where they tell you todo the opposite with regards to feet and arms position ;-)

[@Back2TheBike]

Ha, yes! I learned that watching Guy Martin's Great Escape ;-)

[@gonnahavemesomefun]

Fascinating video, great delivery, loved the way you overlayed the observation then we get to see what you did. Welcome to 2019 btw :) ...did I spot something the instructor didn't? ... you were creeping over the double whites, with your wing mirror - I always thought no part of the vehicle could cross the white line. Perhaps camera angle shows it differently to how it was irl.

[@Back2TheBike]

Thx. There are 12 more in the IAM boxed set to watch too.

[@longwaytowork]

Have you had your test yet, how long was the process and how many observed rides did you need??? Great vid btw!!!

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi. My first observe was January 2017 and I took the exam at the end of October. Check out the full boxed set of IAM Observes under 'playlists'.

[@mikethoes2258]

It is hard to ride a boat as a motorcycle lol, Ride safe my motorcyclist friend.

[@Back2TheBike]

My long lost cousin, bearing a strange family resemblance! Will do, and you ...

[@mikethoes2258]

Haha didn't even notice that, The weather here in The Netherlands is a bit too cold for my comfort, So i will stay nice, warm (and safe) in the car.

[@gestoandlane]

5:00 overtake red car? Absolutely. Floor it haha. #Gesto ...yes yes I have issues clearly lol

[@aprofromuk]

on the foot peg position, there are some counter views as well, esp from troy corser, but it might be a track only suggestion. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZoW0qGdjer6rfqM

[@sigmase11]

I notice you are late with your gear changes and was doing 75 mph whilst still in 4th gear. You rarely get out of 3 rd gear on the B roads, is this correct as the revs are certainly up for this time of year where the road surface is cold and wet a lot of the time.

[@Back2TheBike]

Good question. The answer is I don't know! I was working on the assumption that 3rd gives me the right balance of traction and engine braking. I think the '4th' was when I was accelerating up a steepish hill. I take your point though about the damp conditions. I do have a tendency to stay in too low a gear and am working on this. Thanks for the feedback :-)

[@sigmase11]

On my 2015 Rt there is an arrow that indicates when to change gear when the revs are up to a certain level, just wondering if you have this feature? Have a look to the right of the gear indicator when you accelerate.

[@Back2TheBike]

Thanks, I'll have a look.

[@rcraven1013]

About 5.00 you are frustrated by following a car doing less than the 50 mph limit from 44 to 47/8 mph. and sometimes the limit of 50. The distance that you were giving at times was closer than 150 ft and the stopping distance recommended in the H.C. is 175 ft. So you did well in giving that distance and of not overtaking. Any overtake of vehicles doing maybe 52 mph or above would generally require one to exceed the speed limit for that 50 mph. road. I did notice your speeds on your way to the first meeting and on either 50 or 60 mph. roads you were doing in the upper 30's to low 40,s but on the assessment ride you were riding faster about or just over the limit. Why was that?

[@rcraven1013]

At 6.50 ish. I saw that you were passing telegraph poles. They are a good measurement of safe distances at say 50 to 60 mph on a country road. I say that because they are generally positioned some 60 metres apart. That means in old monies about 180 ft plus 10 ft being some 190 ft apart in total So one can certainly come to a stop in that distance whilst doing 50 mph. and also almost do the same at 60 mph [Full stopping distance of 240ft. in the H.C. and only 60 meters [ 190 ft ] with the DVSA] If one is closer than that distance to the vehicle in front at 50 or 60 mph. ie not a full telegraph pole then one is actually tailgating and one should pull back to those distances to keep oneself safe should the vehicle in front come to a sudden and unexpected halt. .

[@Back2TheBike]

Why? No idea. Very early days after 37yrs off the bike. Suggest you dont over analyse and get signed up to IAM.

[@rcraven1013]

@@Back2TheBike Was in police serviced for over 20 years and trained by them. Sometimes analysing RTAs etc. Without such analysis safety would never improve. Its necessary to look at minor details, things that would normally be overlooked as well as the obvious in order eventually to ride with any degree of safety. Happy riding and keep safe. Love the video. but remember your video is being watched by many other riders and they can be influenced by what they see and may understand. or misunderstand . For both good and for bad traits. Personally seeing things from two perspectives, of both inside and outside of the police service I don't believe that we as civilians end up riding like a police officer. Especially ones engaged in normal road patrol duties. There is too much emphasis on riding to speed limits and the making of progress. The training is incomplete when it come to overtakes, bends and inappropriate speeds all of which are the major causes of many an off on our country roads.

[@Back2TheBike]

@@rcraven1013 this was the first of around a dozen IAM rides. Warts and all, nothing hidden, so viewers can hopefully be encouraged by the progression, frustration, learning and eventual exam pass. As I make clear on the final video, after passing I still didn't feel advanced and it took me a year to internalise the method then another to polish that. I'm curious, which police motorcycle courses did you do?

[@rcraven1013]

@@Back2TheBike Back in the 70's In order to be a police rider one has to first take an ordinary, standard driving course which lasted for 2 weeks in those days. Then subsequently take a further traffic course to be a traffic officer as one would call it nowadays. Then in order to be a class one or two driver undertake a similar course for riding motorcycles. Many many years ago I was rfetired from ythe poioce serives after 20 odd years due to an c accidnertI have de ririg my motorcyclse and on duty one dark evening in the rain when a car pulled out in frontg of me. I suffered leg injuries wjhich eventually led me to be medically retired and that was way back in the 80's

[@leepearson4400]

do you think advance riding will help person who struggling to lean on corners on motorbike ?

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi Lee, absolutely. This was a problem I had and am still working on. The IAM guys have a lot of experience and will definitely help you to get the most from your bike. You'll see as you progress through my IAM boxed set that this is something I get helped with.

[@leepearson4400]

@@Back2TheBike i nearly got rid of my bike due to bullying cause can't lean it as good as other people can. so trying get more training

[@Back2TheBike]

@@leepearson4400 Best way to shut them up is to solve the problem Lee. Get down to your local IAM ;-)

[@davejones542]

not overtaking a car doing 45 on a 60mile road with plenty of passing places does not seem advanced.. it seems to be failing to be making normal progress.

[@Back2TheBike]

Agreed. The clue why is in the title.

[@RP-pn2jo]

Really annoying I can’t read the tips that flash up It needs a black block background. Why would you use such light colours,yellow and white against a light background?! Would love to hear the instructors feedback and tips on a separate video where we can properly hear him and see his examples of foot placements etc. He gave excellent feedback that everyone could benefit from,it is frustrating with all the traffic noise etc and I don’t like your helmet position as it doesn’t give the best view as a learner in my opinion. I would have it central on helmet chin or on bars etc.

[@Back2TheBike]

Did you get out of bed the wrong side this morning? If you think you can do better, go ahead.

[@TheJohnnyCombat]

I’m an advanced rider and an advanced driver. It worries me that you can chat about a whole host of subjects whilst your travelling along at speed. You even caused me concern that you were doing it whilst on an observed ride with the IAM. If however, you had been giving a commentary ride I would said that would have been better for your concentration, advanced warning and personal safety of you and others. You would find riding to The System more enjoyable and easier. Please, don’t think I’m judging your riding, I would not do that. Please forget about chatting about anything and everything. Save it for the cafe stop during the ride. I really hope you pass your IAM test. Post a video with a commentary ride!! Shiny side up!! JC.

[@Back2TheBike]

Hi John, here you go ;-) kzbin.info/aero/PLqMZwg-rWtpFm9xM1FAPNM1X3zlW9cf3F

[@gray100]

Watching this shows me trainers only teach you to pass your test and not how to ride to a high standard.

[@Back2TheBike]

Why don’t you demo your high standard for our education? No? Thought not.

[@gray100]

@Back2TheBike don't be a fool mate, just cos I have a difference of opinion. I don't have a cam any more for 1. Currently have a broken back from a car crash...I was a rear seat passenger before you start..

[@gray100]

Besides, if I wasn't right you wouldn't be making the mistakes you make and learning from someone else.

[@gray100]

Are you going to deny you are only trained to a standard of teaching people to pass their test? Because that's exactly what it looks like. If you were advanced, you wouldn't need the amount of training you clearly do. That's all I'm saying. So my 1st comment stands.

[@gray100]

Some people get so touchy when faced with the truth. Sad.

[@livernut875]

You need to be using all your gears, holding 3rd gear makes your engine rev more than it needs to be and it’s costing you a fortune in gas... ??

[@Back2TheBike]

You're spot on with that advice. Only took me a year to get that sorted! Check out the later vids in the IAM boxed set and you'll note a small piece of plastic tape on my tachometer to remind me to change up.

[@bryangreen9672]

Bike cops puts helmet on ground,,,,,,,puts helmet on and has to stop after 3 mins to remove ant out of his ear 😂

[@Back2TheBike]

Reminds me of an old joke about an earwig and a milk bottle 🐵

[@2Niels]

Nice video - was enjoying it until Mark said 'chillax'... ;)

[@Back2TheBike]

He's a cool dude. Knows his stuff though and a gifted trainer.

[@garrywilson8982]

Watching these so called advanced riders , a bmw and a hi viz does not men you can ride a bike ,

[@geoffcallicott2060]

Just in no way sure it’s worth the money to learn what we already know

[@Back2TheBike]

A friend of mine is a police instructor. He never stops learning, despite many years on two wheels. IAM is a great system for us lesser mortals to access a decent standard of riding I reckon. 😀

[@geoffcallicott2060]

Back2TheBike - if you can’t ride safely- then 1/2 days of being told look over your right shoulder don’t make one bit of difference and is not worth the money

[@tinkertime7165]

geoff callicott. Troll comments.

[@geoffcallicott2060]

Tinkertime - evidence that comment

[@mycommerceUSA]

He had me up until position of feet on the pegs. Balls of feet on the pegs is fine for track riding but is poor instruction and flat-out dangerous for street riding. Why? Your feet are not anywhere near the brake or gear shifter and, in an emergency, you waste valuable milliseconds reaching out for those levers. I see guys all the time with their entire legs moving back and forwards as they fish for the levers and then fish back again for the peg. As ridiculous as it is dangerous. Also, tips of toes on the pegs is a really small contact patch which can disappear quickly and easily if you hit a bump or a pothole. The peg should nestle in the heel insteps of your boots. It just requires a small sideways movement to reach the lever from there, but your foot remains firmly planted on the peg and the controls remain closest to you.

[@Back2TheBike]

I suspect part of this is what you feel comfortable with Jason, and we need to adapt to the road situation.

[@tinkertime7165]

Jason, I don’t agree. I have always ridden with peg against the heel. In this position the toes are normally below the rear brake pedal. I’m trying the ball of the foot method.

[@keithogden1770]

TERRIBLE audio!!

[@Back2TheBike]

Try this images.app.goo.gl/VW3esFc6jTBcPNEQA