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LEARNING ES CURV training Blue Riband

CONTENTS

g pLUS | CLothiN

SpeCiaL!

A | Latest | Vietnam | WIM www.brit

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lists.co. motorcyc

uk

gn News

Lobby & Campai

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Lobby News Round Up

There’s a new Road Safety Strategy on the way

Cover Picture: Blue Riband National Lead Instructor, Ian Speight (rear bike). (Photo: Terry Rawcliffe)

FEATURES Mark Williams

MOTORCYCLE RIDER IS PUBLISHED BY THE BRITISH MOTORCYCLISTS FEDERATION (ENTERPRISES) LIMITED

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Motorcycle Rider Editor | Ian Kerr MBE Production Editor | Peter Henshaw Designer | Louise Hillier - design@bmf.co.uk

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The Quality Story

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Impact Protection

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The Mix

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Book Reviews

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Travel: Vietnam

All BMF correspondence to: Helen Hancock Administrator BMF, PO Box 9036, Enderby Leicester, LE19 9BE Tel: 01162 795112 Mob: 07918 903 500 Email: admin@bmf.co.uk COPYRIGHT: All material published in motorcycle rider is the copyright of the BMF. Use may be freely made of it without permission on condition that any material used is credited “reproduced by permission of motorcycle rider, the BMF magazine”.

The views of any contribution contained in motorcycle rider are not necessarily those of the editorial team or of the BMF. Chair | Jim Freeman Finance Director | Howard Anderson Member Services Director | Peter Laidlaw Political and Technical Services Director | Anna Zee National and One-Make Club Forum Chair |Stephen Davenport Administrator | Helen Hancock

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Mark gives an alternative view on what we wear Ian Kerr on why it’s worth paying more for top-notch kit Body armour has come a long way, and D3O leads the pack Three BMF initiatives: Blue Riband, Motorcycle Mindset and the ABR Festival One man’s life in racing, plus a speedway history Exploring SE Asia by Kawasaki traillie

The Toolman: Phil Joseph

A motorcycle lift which doesn’t need mains power – that’ll be Sealey

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See page 20 32

WIMA: 76 Years & Counting

WIMA – representing women motorcyclists around the world

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RESOURCES Bike & Brew

Don’t be complacent – heated kit can still be a boon in chilly Spring

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Bikesure

Meet the Members

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The Legal Column

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Down Your Way

Hot Topic: Heated clothing

Ruby and Mick – daughter and father, both BMF volunteer marshals

Bike & Brew 2026 is gearing up – visit cafes and support fellow bikers Some good A2 bikes to buy Protective clothing – the law BMF contacts in your area

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From the Chair

"Please join us as an individual member if you aren't already!

Just point your phone at the QR code to go to the right spot on our website!"

Dear Fellow Rider reader, This is a packed edition of Rider, with a full selection of stories.

Ian, our relatively new Ed, is a very experienced motorcycle writer with a keen nose for interesting tales. This issue has a theme on clothing, particularly safety clothing or PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as many now refer to it, and the BMF has been lucky enough to recruit Paul Varnsverry, who has had a similarly extensive career to Ian’s in the field of clothing standards and regulations, recently focused on enforcement of the laws about labelling and retailers.

I’m not any kind of expert in this field, but the BMF has some expert knowledge on hand.

My personal takeaway is simple: beware of online sellers who are selling kit at bargain prices on eBay and similar platforms. If they have no physical presence in the UK, like a retail shop, is there anything to stop them simply disappearing in a puff of smoke? Many have been found to be ‘off shore’ in a real sense. They might post you a pair of gloves, for example, from an address in the UK, but if anyone checks them out, they might just be on the first flight to wherever.

On a more technical level, did you know that there’s more than one way to test the abrasion resistance of fabric? What I’m saying is that similar looking test results from seemingly reputable testing facilities aren’t necessarily comparable. The BMF is interested in the safety of motorcyclists, including our members, naturally.

Keen eyed readers may have seen the recent Pothole Partnership feedback, with numerous reports from you, the ordinary rider on the street, who responded fantastically when we asked for your reallife experiences. Some of the pictures of potholes and

bikes were gut wrenching, and even the most blithely uninterested politician couldn’t fail to be unmoved. The ‘reach’ of National Pothole Day was astonishing, and the BMF received congratulations from as far away as Cyprus, with the CMRC (Cyprus Motorcycle Rights Club) asking if it could run a companion event next year.

CMRC is a full member of FEMA, the Federation of European Motorcycle Organisations.

As we head into Spring, a slightly surreal experience as I write, it might not be very cold, but the rain seems to be ever present, I’ll share my usual pre-season thoughts. If you’ve been avoiding the nasty season, keeping your bike as wrapped as possible and your kit in the warm, now’s the time to spare a thought for both.

Check that bike over. Are the tyres, brakes and transmission sound or do they need a good clean and some judicious replacements? Those tyres that you were teetering around on last Autumn, squared off and just legal, might be a nasty shock when ridden on in a few weeks time (I’m writing in early February). I’d also say that a chain that’s done 20k miles and those brakes that seemed so good last August might want a good going over as well. We all know that declining performance and ‘feel’ tend to creep up unnoticed. A general service, filters and fluids, never go amiss either.

That’s the bike, how about the kit? A new visor perhaps? That pair of trousers that used to be 100% waterproof but now leave an embarrassing damp patch after a couple of hours serious rain – is it time to replace them or apply some waterproofing magic potion? Back in the day, for those who still liked wax cotton, reproofing every spring was a thing, however disgusting and dubiously effective a process it might have been.

Whatever way you roll, stay safe, ride safe.

USEFUL CONTACTS

Jim Freeman, BMF Chair Peter Laidlaw, Director of Member Services Howard Anderson, Finance Director Anna Zee, Political & Technical Services Director Paul Morgan CBE, Government Relations Exec Helen Hancock, Admin & Anything!

Net Hopkinson , Membership Secretary Max Holliday, Media and Community Liaison

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jim.freeman@bmf.co.uk peter.laidlaw@bmf.co.uk howand@hotmail.com anna.zee@bmf.co.uk paul.morgan@bmf.co.uk admin@bmf.co.uk membership@bmf.co.uk max@bmf.co.uk

07918 903 499 07918 903 500 0116 2795 112 07368 559 430

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Bike & Brew: Riding for Wellbeing

Bike & Brew – run by the MARK charity – is gearing up for this year

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ast year’s Bike & Brew Passport Event (the first of its kind) showed that motorcycling is more than just a pastime – it’s a community. From May to October, riders took part in a unique challenge that combined café culture, stunning routes and grassroots charity support, culminating at the Owl’s Nest Tea Room Diner in Llandovery. With 3300 passports sold and £33,000 raised for community charities, the impact has been extraordinary.

Paul Sims, Chairperson and founder of Make Your MARK said: “We set out to strengthen the communities by encouraging and promoting Motorbiker Acts of Random Kindness (MARK) and nailed it in our first year! It was an amazing privilege to receive the trust and support of the cafés and our volunteers to put on such a unique event that has created unprecedented levels of wellbeing and togetherness within the motorbike community.”

Release the Clutch. Quiet the Noise.

Make Your MARK.

What the Riders Said

Riders at the event best captured the spirit. Kevin managed to visit all 90 cafes, “met some great bikers, travelled challenging roads and green lanes…can’t wait for the next one.” Heidi said Bike & Brew had given her, “focus, purpose, motivation, happiness, confidence and Above right: Bike & Brew brings people together

memories I will never forget,” while Sheryl summed it up: “What an event this has been, fuelled by enthusiasm (coffee & cake) and rooted in community spirit…Roll on next year.”

MARK in Action

Motorbiker Acts of Random Kindness are at the heart of the charity’s mission, as Paul explained: “I don’t think I want to highlight any particular single act of kindness as there have been so many. This is more about creating a unified movement focused on kindness and a greater awareness of those around us and how we might better support each other.”

The Passport became a catalyst for conversations, transforming strangers into riding buddies as solitary riders joined forces in pursuit of the next stamp. The NHS five steps to wellbeing – mindfulness, connection, learning, being active and giving back – were all achieved through the Bike & Brew Passport.

Through MARK, the charity has offered confidential spaces at biker cafés, delivered free mental health first aid and safeguarding training, installed defibrillators at biker-friendly venues and built a growing network of wellbeing hubs across the UK.

Help Wanted

Paul Sims added that MARK is looking for new recruits: “We would love you to join our enthusiastic team of ambassadors who are helping us become the fastest growing mental wellbeing charity in the motorbike community. Whether you want to help Bike and Brew this year, be part of our Social Biker Group and help develop our wellbeing hubs, or you just want to ride with us, drop us a message or an email and we will get back to you".

2025 Bike & Brew Winners Peter from Swansea – Kawasaki Z900 RS SE + Litelok’s Ultimate City Bundle Nigel from Crewe – Royal Enfield 450 Guerrilla + Litelok’s Supreme Lock it and Leave it Bundle Gareth from Llangunnor – Litelok’s Supreme Touring Bundle

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Bike & Brew 2026 This year’s Bike & Brew starts on 1st April, giving riders an earlier start to explore, with 250 venues already confirmed – it will be bigger, better and even more impactful.

Paul Sims, Chairperson: 07984 345326 Facebook: facebook.com/ makeyourmark

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News

Springing Into Action

Craig Carey-Clinch MCIPR (NMC), Paul Morgan (BMF) and Anna Zee (BMF) on signs of hope in Spring ‘26.

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n the Autumn 2025 issue of Motorcycle Rider we set out our hope that in 2026 we would finally see some concrete progress in respect of the Government delivering on motorcycling priorities. Although more recent political events continue to distract ministers from their immediate wider delivery ambitions, the year did begin on a very positive note with the Government finally announcing its Road Safety Strategy, the first in over a decade, which sets a target of reducing by 65% the number of people killed or seriously injured on roads across Great Britain by 2035, using a 2022-2024 baseline.

The strategy announcement kick-started a series of consultations, which will run until May, on proposed law changes and enhancements to outdated road safety guidance that will inform future road safety measures to be implemented across the UK. The 60-page strategy is split into four themes, including drivers, collision research, the physical roads and enforcement.

Training & Testing

In what represents a significant lobbying win for the NMC, the BMF and other motorcycling partners, the Government has announced a specific consultation on potential major reforms to moped and motorcycle training, testing and licensing.

These proposals focus on reforming the current motorcycle training and testing regimes to improve road safety for motorcyclists, modernise current training, and reduce the number of ‘permanent learner’ riders who repeatedly renew their Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) without progressing to a full licence. A key question that is being asked is whether riders should be able to upgrade to higher motorcycle licence categories through training rather than through repetitive and costly DVSA practical testing.

The BMF and NMC have welcomed the consultation, which follows many years of lobbying and campaigning, but want to see much greater ambition in terms of the proposed review, with a wider focus on the measures required to significantly improve motorcycle safety, while making the licensing regime simpler to understand and more straightforward to access.

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Recognise Motorcycling

If the Government is serious about its declared ambition to reduce deaths and serious injuries, then it must develop a multi-pronged road safety strategy for motorcycling that fully addresses the disproportionate risks faced by motorcyclists, who represent just 1% of motor traffic but continue to account for 21% of road deaths. That will require not only reform of the current training, testing and licensing regime, which is clearly no longer fit for purpose, but a fundamental shift in the Government’s overall approach to motorcycling, including a move away from its current stance of ‘policy exclusion,’ whereby motorcycling is viewed as a safety problem to be solved rather than a transport opportunity that needs to be encouraged and supported. Such a shift in policy will be needed if the Government is also to meet its wider ambitions on increased mobility, reduced congestion and air quality improvements whilst achieving its stated missions regarding growth, net zero, and increased opportunity.

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Left & below: Motorcycling needs to be recognised as an essential transport mode – we are part of the traffic, after all

That will require Ministers to take a radical look at future transport policy and planning, rather than simply tinkering around the edges, to properly fix what the Prime Minister has previously described as a “broken” transport system. Motorcycling must be fully recognised as an essential and sustainable transport mode that needs to be fully supported as a key part of the Government’s future transport strategy.

Don’t Get Excited

Under the proposed ‘Safe System’ approach to motorcycling, the future Integrated National Transport Strategy (currently due to be published this Spring) will also need to focus on the behaviour and actions of other road users, alongside improved road design and infrastructure, and a proper share of the current investment ‘pie’ which currently mainly goes to other forms of active travel such as walking and cycling.

We are obviously pleased with the proposed reforms of the CBT process, including the introduction of a theory and hazard perception test, and the emphasis within the consultation proposals on introducing a structured progressive training regime for riders to improve their skills and move up through the various licensing categories to a full licence.

If implemented, the proposals would deliver significant

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improvement compared to the current costly and repetitive training, testing and licensing regime that has served to deter motorcyclists from moving up to a full licence and in many cases even from taking up motorcycling in the first place. However, we remain cautious about getting excited too quickly, given that the proposals lack ambition in a number of other areas.

Positive First Meeting

With regard to other road safety areas, we continue to question the illogical rejection by the DfT in 2024 to allow motorcycles to use bus lanes by default. This should have been included in the road safety strategy as it would have provided an instant safety and access benefit for motorcyclists across the UK’s towns and cities.

The statement by Ministers that they had “no policy to encourage greater use of motorcycles,” was seen at the time as a further slap in the face, displaying what appeared to be an anti-motorcycling agenda by the Government, particularly in the context of wider transport and planning policy, with an apparent disregard for the real potential for motorcycles to reduce congestion and emissions and provide an accessible and sustainable future transport solution.

Looking ahead, the licensing reform consultation, plus other consultations announced under the Road Safety Strategy, are the first stages of a new process that has come in response to a lot of hard work by the motorcycling sector to get Ministers to take motorcycling seriously and address safety concerns.

As part of ensuring maximum impact, the NMC is liaising closely with the MCIA and the NMDA (the dealers’ association) to see where we can tie together a decisive lobby and joint work on the areas of licensing reform where we share the same position (most of it). Plus working on developing the more technical aspects of training delivery with our partners in the training industry, notably Phoenix Motorcycle Training.

An initial meeting of the motorcycle lobby with DfT, National Highways and DVSA officials held during January to discuss the new Road Safety Strategy was positive with a clear shared ambition to significantly improve motorcycle safety. But we also hope that the Government will seize the opportunity for wider reform, including in its planning and future Integrated National Transport policies, and take the decision to actively recognise and Motorcycle R I D E R

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News support motorcycling as a cleaner, greener, more affordable and sustainable future transport option.

Watch This Space

In launching the new Road Safety Strategy, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has said: “Our vision is clear: to ensure that people can travel safely on our roads however they choose. This strategy is not just a document; it is a call to action for government.” We now call for the Government to put these positive words into effect and put in place motorcycle-inclusive improvements that will not only improve safety but assist the Government to deliver on its wider transport and growth agenda.

As we go to press, the BMF and NMC plus external partners have been invited to a meeting with Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood, to discuss the licensing reform consultation. This will take place during March and promises to be a crucial moment in the overall lobby on this vital issue – watch this space for a report on this session!

So, as a winter of storms both meteorologically and in wider politics gives way to Spring, it’s great that motorcycling public affairs has finally sprung into life after what seemed to be a hiatus in 2025. However, this new activity, though called for and welcome, presents several challenges to BMF and NMC lobbying – challenges which we will meet in a positive way as we continue to seek the best deal for motorcyclists in the UK.

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Working Together for Motorcycling

You may have heard me say that “we do all the really boring stuff, so you don’t have to," and it’s true! Behind the scenes, Paul, Craig and I are currently working through the many consultations linked to the Government’s Road Safety Strategy.

Every detail matters, and the BMF will be submitting responses across the board, even where the headlines aren’t exciting, because that’s how we properly protect motorcyclists’ interests.

But safeguarding motorcycling isn’t only about national policy. Many of the issues that affect us most are motorcycle parking, access to bus lanes, potholes and road layouts all of which are decided locally. Councils and highways authorities are far more responsive when they hear directly from residents. A well-placed email or conversation with your local councillor can make a real difference.

MPs are also being encouraged to prioritise constituency matters. That makes your voice, as a constituent, more important than ever. When members raise motorcycling concerns directly, it strengthens the case we are making nationally.

This is where you can help.

If you’re willing to occasionally contact your councillor or MP, or support a local issue, please let us know. You don’t need to be an expert — we’ll provide briefings and guidance whenever needed.

The BMF is strongest when national representation is backed by active local members. Together, we are far more influential than any of us alone.

Your ride, Your rights, Your BMF. Anna Zee BMF Political & Technical Services Director

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Unreliable Sauce / Mark Williams

UNSUITED AND BOOTED MARK WILLIAMS doesn’t spend a fortune on bike kit – here’s why

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hese days motorbicyclists garner attention amongst their peers as much for what they ride in as what they ride on and yes, I myself am frequently struck by the raiment worn at the clan gatherings I attend at shows and indeed at biker caffs. But not what I’m wearing, which is a motley selection of garb varying from the eighty-quid leather jacket bought as an unexpected 70th birthday present in Paris, to a frayed UFO fabric jacket from the last of my noughties trail-riding days to a padded bomber jacket dating back to the 1970s purloined from Stiff Records (embroidered with ‘THE SECOND BEST ANSWER IS NO’) and invariably a 12 year-old pair of Kevlar reinforced (and ill-fitting) blue jeans.

True, any combination of the above are for spirited bimbling around Welsh country lanes on my VT500 Ascot or 100+ mile A-roads journeys on my K75S to the coast or eastwards and beyond. Equally true was that until the bottom fell out of generous freelance rates on pre-Covid Bike magazine, for test launches (often in foreign climes) I squeezed into my umpteen year-old two-piece Frank Thomas leathers or a slightly newer, allegedly waterproof Oxford Montreal reinforced fabric two-piece. And as I was fortunate enough to still be working as a proper bike hack with a recognisable byline, I got these last two outfits at trade prices. As I don’t now do anything like the mileages I did when they were new, I see no reason to replace them with their current equivalents. Which is probably just as well because I’m now a humble-ish pensioner…

But then I’ve always been rather parsimonious in the clothing department, preferring to spend what money I have on hardware, not software. Back in my pre- Bike magazine days that meant an ex-army anorak and then a red(!) TT Leathers waxed suit (a poorman’s Barbour which quickly showed the dirt) and an equally eyewatering yellow(!!) leather jacket from the same outfit. Reinforced jeans didn’t exist then but the nurse in the hospital where I was taken with badly bruised legs after a one-armed driver drove into me on my Yam XS-2 told me that my tight Wrangler jeans saved me from worse injuries because they enabled me to slide across the tarmac.

I was also a fan of ex-Dutch Army heavy suede boots bought in Amsterdam at the recommendation of my best biker pal who’d ridden to Afghanistan and back in his – comfortable, waterproofish and frankly rather sexy…or so I told myself. We also wore ex- Dutch Navy grey leather gloves which I still have and remain summertime wear over five decades later.

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

But I can’t say the same for the succession of Premier helmets I bought until manufacturers’ largesse (OK, bribery) donated me AGVs and Simpsons which then appeared in the pages of Bike and WhichBike? That said, I bought an HJC IS-19 cheap at a classic bike show ten years ago which with a new-ish visor and laundered padding still serves me well… And bike show trade stands have provided me with two pairs of no-brand armoured, long-cuffed riding gloves, both now almost worn out, which will be replaced at a classic bike show in April and almost certainly for less than half the price of the sprauncey knuckle-dusters I see promoted in what’s left of the motorcycle press. And my road riding boots are from the bargain basement BikeIt brand – sturdy, nicely padded and fitting, strongly soled and dubbined every year to keep them supple and somewhat waterproof – thirty quid at the Stafford showground.

See, when you add up the cost of a top-tier fabric riding suit (circa £500-600), helmet (£600-800), bootees (£240-320), gloves (£150-170) and padded jeans (£160-180), you’d be spending well over a grand and a half… and that’s even before you quite literally get into leatherwear. And more than I paid for my 1995 Beemer! OK, should I stuff myself into a tree or get T-boned by a dozy ‘didn’t-see-you- mate’ driver I might come off better if I’d dished out that sort of cash on my clobber, but then if safety is your main concern, you probably aren’t a biker…but you might be an unwitting fashionista!

The opinions expressed in this column are those of the writer, not the BMF as a whole.

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Quality Street IAN KERR spent a day at Bikerheadz, learning why spending extra on quality kit pays dividends

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xactly a year ago in Motorcycle Rider we ran a feature written by Paul Varnsverry, who (it is no exaggeration to say) is probably the world’s expert on motorcycle clothing standards. In a very detailed article, Paul reported on the vast amount of purportedly certified motorcycle clothing that is anything but, allegedly offered on the internet by rogue traders, often at bargain prices. This sub-standard kit has been found to either fail to meet the standards, or is claiming to meet them by using other standards that do not apply to the particular product. For example, gloves tested to just one characteristic of the extensive panel of tests for industrial safety gloves, not for motorcycling.

So Paul is an active campaigner against fraud that could ultimately result in somebody ending up with life changing injuries, believing they had the best protection. He continues the fight online and with his weekly column in MCN, educating buyers as what to look for when purchasing riding gear.

Now it goes without saying that the people making and selling these garments are cutting corners in the name of profit. To obtain the correct certification obviously costs money and time and the need to obtain and fit proper impact absorption again increases costs. Online selling does not involve shops and staff, yet the list of cost cutting goes on as the profit margin goes up.

Education is obviously key in all of this, given the vast array of clothing and helmets on the market, the majority of which thankfully does meet the relevant standards. Having said that, there’s an equally vast array of price points, and you might wonder 8

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Spend more to keep warm, dry and comfortable

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Upmarket kit such as Rukka and Bowtex costs more, but could prove cheaper in the long run

why some garments cost more than others when they all appear to meet the same standards. To find out why, I sat in at a product briefing at the Hampshire base of Bikerheadz which was formed in 1976 and handles several of the premium products.

The company has a very impressive showroom at the front a massive warehouse, but it’s aimed at dealers rather than the public, so that they can physically see all the product ranges and try on garments. Some items of clothing have been sectioned and displayed to show the internal structures and how the garment is made. It’s here you begin to see where the cost comes into things as there is no skimping anywhere, which I will come onto in due course.

For them, it is not just about meeting the standards, but exceeding them to give riders a safe comfortable and protective item that will last more than one season and actually does what it says on the label.

Spend More to Save

These product briefings for dealers are very comprehensive, with technical experts from each of the brands flown in from all over Europe, to brief the sales reps so they could train staff at the dealerships. Once again for them it’s important to ensure the end user gets the right equipment to meet their riding needs, not just a sales receipt!

A cynic once told me (cynically) that every BMW GS rider wears a uniform: Schuberth Helmet, a Rukka suit and gloves, along with Daytona boots. Many do, but so do the police riders! The reasons are simple, these premium products work keeping the rider warm, dry and comfortable, which allows them to concentrate on the road - and they last! There is no better recommendation than www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

the fact that all professional riders swear by Rukka, as do most journalists – you do not need a BMW GS or a police uniform to benefit from its high levels of comfort and protection!

I remember an industry expert pointing out to me once that these premium products continued to deliver well past their warranty, and if you bought cheaper items you would eventually end up spending more money over a five-year period if you were a high mileage rider and had to keep replacing other lesser/ cheaper kit.

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Any colour as long as it’s black?

Not any more from Rukka

I must confess, I have been a long-term user of Rukka, ever since they came into the UK from Finland with the Barry Sheene ‘plasticised’ suits of the mid-1970s. These days the brand is best known for its textile jackets and trousers, and tellingly, they only use Gore-Tex as the waterproof breathable layer. They in turn have to pay a premium for that, but it works and whilst I have tested other brands, every time I set off on a long journey in bad weather I have always reverted to my Rukka – it’s a similar story with my Daytona boots.

What I didn’t know – and along with others, learnt on the day – was that after washing the garments you should warm them with a hairdryer on the outside to re-invigorate the water repellency and open up the pores in the Gore-Tex. But then that’s the benefit of having a technical representative from the factory present!

Although still primarily in black colour schemes with various reflective flashes here and there Rukka does have alternative styles for winter and summer riding as well as for those who really are adventure riders. Utilising unique-to-Rukka designs of D3O armour to retain the breathability they are known for, all suits benefit from extensive technical input all aimed at keeping you warm and dry.

And on the former, they now do a whole range of products for layering up underneath along with a base layer body temperature garment to provide the complete package to deal with all seasons.

be argued Daytona do not offer the greatest choice in styles, but these boots do exactly what they were intended to do, and last – my previous pair gave 10 years of excellent service. What was interesting were the new models in the Falco boot range. Virtually all were short ankle-length boots or shoe types because apparently these are now the best-selling styles!

Another revelation was the Belgian Bowtex range of lightweight clothing made from Dyneema that looks and feels more like an undergarment. Apparently very popular in Europe and selling like hot- cakes due to their thermo-conductive qualities as well as their light weight.

Boots & Gloves

Moving onto the German made Daytona boot range what can you say that has not been said before? The two-piece race boot has repeatedly been tested in race conditions and saved riders’ pain and suffering while the road boots keep riders’ feet dry. It could 10

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They meet all the highest abrasion resistance standards (AAA) and have pockets in some of the range for impact absorbing armour. (It’s worth noting that AAA garments must feature fitted shoulder, elbow and hip and knee protectors – if pockets are present, but protectors are not fitted, AAA cannot be claimed).

Another presentation came from the technical representative from ‘Five’ gloves, a French firm which only makes gloves. Again, you always learn, because although I have been using Five gloves for some time, I didn’t realise just how special they are, with D3O being incorporated into various vulnerable places and each knuckle protector mirroring those on your hands.

The Five rep also explained synthetic leather, which is a vegan material. In the case of Five, it replaces natural suede leather which is mainly used in the palm of the glove for its elasticity, resistance and comfort.

Apparently, we will be seeing more synthetic leather in various items as the cost of natural leather continues to rise.

Hulvarssons may be a few notches down on Rukka, but the Swedish brand is just as technical and wellmade and has launched one of the few AAA classified suits designed to be extremely comfortable. Again, these are high quality products with a slightly more diverse product range which includes leather jackets and riding jeans.

Noise Cancelling Helmets

Scorpion Exo is a relatively new helmet brand, having been introduced to the UK 25 years ago, joining the vast numbers of even longer established makes. Based in Strasbourg Scorpion continues to push its way to the top of the sales war with exciting colour schemes and more importantly technical innovation, often copied by other lesser brands. Certainly, the Scorpion range seems

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Five gloves hail from France, using D3O protection and synthetic leather

to cover every style of helmet you could possible want, all to the current 22.06 standard.

Last but no means least is Schuberth helmets, recognised to be the quietest on the market. However, if you don’t want peace and tranquillity they have now teamed up with Cardo to give you ANC (Active Noise Cancelling) in a new C5 ANC helmet. This heralds a new chapter in helmet technology that delivers industry leading clarity which enhances the ride.

Bascially it’s hi-fi quality sound without taking away your ability to hear those all-important road noises which may save your life.

It was a real revelation to find out that the carbon fibre Schuberths are all hand-made, which goes a long way to explaining the price! When you actually look at all options available to ensure a perfect fit you quickly see where the cost is and why this really a premium product.

So it was a very informative day at Bikerheadz, and the main thing I took away is that the company has invested heavily, continues to do so and really does want to give the motorcyclist safe products to enhance their wellbeing whilst riding. Although not the cheapest on the market, I can now see why that’s the case, but then quality never is. One thing is for sure – if you invest in any of this kit, you will not be buying new clothing every year, and looked at over time, it actually works out cheaper than you might think!

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Impact Protection

Don’t try this at home kids...but it really does work

IAN KERR on how impact protection has developed, with a closer look at the current market leader – D3O

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epending on your age you may well have started riding in the days when the only ‘specialised’ motorcycle clothing available was from two main firms who supplied waxed cotton jackets and trousers – Belstaff and Barbour. There was also the rubberised waterproof suit, (Black Prince) but in the main riders were using the old DR macs that covered the legs down to the ankles.

In those post-war days, speeds were relatively low and the protection provided by the wax cotton outfits was not too bad in terms of abrasion should you end up parting company with your mount. As time progressed the leather jacket started to become the norm with thick denim jeans and knee length leather boots.

Some of the jackets featured thin foam padding on the shoulders and elbows, but it was more for fashion than any form of impact absorption.

Early Armour

As elsewhere in the motorcycle world, things have progressed.

Like the bikes themselves, clothing has improved and standards have been introduced to ensure that as far as is possible a rider can get the best possible chance of surviving not only a slide, but also impacts to the body when hitting the ground (slightly reducing the injuries caused by the impacts with objects such as other vehicles) with minimal effect to their person.

Paul Varnsverry has been a major player working tirelessly to improve safety and setting standards over the past 30-plus years and recently we were reminiscing about the various safety products and clothing.

We can both remember the continuing advances and the various firms that have come and gone as things have progressed in the protective clothing sector – in particular impact absorbing items inserted into the garments, as well as things like back protectors.

Initially many of these items featured an outer of hard plastic and did little to actually absorb any forces, the outer being hard plastic with a thin layer of dense foam behind, albeit having

D3O armour is slim but protective

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www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Above: Two MTC ambassadors, Lee Johnson and Tom Booth Amos, amusing themselves with D3O in its goo form Above right: No, they haven’t created gold, but the material is an amazing thing Below right: Latest impact protectors can be moulded into whatever shape you want

some effect on reducing injury, but not a lot! But, because these initial products were solid items even when pre-formed for the various parts of the body such as shoulders and elbows, they were uncomfortable as they had no flexibility, and in some cases caused sweating at the joints as there were was no breathability incorporated into the design.

Higher Standards

Nowadays of course modern materials and greater understanding have addressed these matters and now items are made to be both breathable and flexible and are secured in the garments in such as way they can do the job intended – that of reducing the forces transmitted to a rider’s body. More importantly, thanks to Paul and others there are now standards to ensure they work when needed rather than just being a ‘fashion’ item.

It was interesting when investigating why some motorcycle clothing costs more than others, that I found part of the high costs relates to the impact absorbing material/items fitted to ensure it meets the relevant standards.

In most cases, the garment or glove manufacturers do not actually make the inserts themselves, but buy in from specialised suppliers which allows, in some cases, the products to gain a higher rating.

Without going into the minutiae of the standards, you should look for the A rating of the garment, as Paul pointed out in his comprehensive standards article last year (MCR105).

AAA is the highest classification and although initially intended to specify leather garments, including suits for racing, there has www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

been a steady growth in the number of textile garments, including riding jeans, that have achieved this level. AA is the intermediate classification, where the majority of textile garments for touring and regular use can be found, while A is suitable only for commuting and light use at very low urban speed, where impact protection has a higher priority than abrasion protection. The actual ‘armour’ itself can be in one of two levels, with the latter providing up to 50% more absorption than level one.

British Market Leader

In the past few years one firm in particular has revolutionised the motorcycle impact absorbing market and virtually all the high-end brands now use their product. And it’s nice to report that the firm in question is British! Not only that, but D30 has recently been awarded the exclusive trademark for its signature bold orange

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colour which is now trademarked for use in protective clothing.

(Good job a certain phone company is no longer in existence to confuse things!)

So apart from its colour what makes the D30 product so special? According to the official designation from the company, “it is made from a blend of polymers and dilatant materials, which exhibit shear-thickening behaviour.”

In its natural state it is soft and flexible and is like a sticky goo, but when processed into a foam it hardens on impact, providing protection against shocks and vibrations. It is characterised as a nonNewtonian fluid and was developed in 1999 by two British scientists based in London and first used in the motorcycle world in 2009.

For the more technical amongst you it is a long chain polymer composite whose molecules remain pliable in general wear until subjected to a sudden impact and in so doing absorbing the energy and dissipating it across a larger area.

Personally speaking, it features in most of my riding gear and I cannot fault its lightweight, breathability and flexibility. As to its effectiveness in a crash I will defer to lab reports as that is not within my specified remit!

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Above right: Magic mushroom – this is what happens when the goo expands Above: Testing a D3O protected boot insert Below: Helmet goes under the hammer, all part of the testing process

Above: CAD is part of the design process Above right: Almost anything can feature D3O, including handlebar grips Below: New items start out as paper sketches

The Future’s Bright

The company suppies not only to the motorcycle market but also the military, the consumer electronics industry to protect delicate items and to sportswear and shoe companies. The almost liquidlike material is made into sheets either solid or ventilated which are then shaped to form the various items of protection.

(Some shops get a block of it in its ‘liquid’ form to demonstrate

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

its properties and you can see how it works as a pen or similar will push it, but hit it with a hammer and it becomes solid!)

The company is continuing to develop new products and use input from real world testing from riders to improve comfort as much as possible, especially on garments that riders will wear on and off the machine, without compromising the ability to protect.

Thanks to the recent trademarking of the orange colour it means that when inspecting any product that has protection inserts, a quick look inside will determine that it is fitted with items made from the market leader. If not it is available as standalone product so you can retro-fit to existing clothing if you want to upgrade to a high performance British product! To take part of the ‘other’ firm’s advertising slogan, ‘the future is bright!’

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Mix

The

Latest news of BMF initiatives: Blue Riband, Motorcycle Mindset and the ABR Festival

Above: Ian is a volunteer with the FireBike team, amongst other things Blue Riband: I’ve been a Motorcycle Examiner for RoSPA since 2013, and Meet the Trainer – Ian Speight a DVSA ERS trainer since 2020, when I also became involved

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am currently the National Lead for the Blue Riband Advanced Rider Award, having taken over the role in late 2023. I have to oversee the course process, recruit new Assessors and promote the award through social media, the press and my own training.

I’ve been passionate about bikes all my life, from my first moped at 16 to my current BMW 1250GS Adventure, and in between I’ve owned over 70 bikes and ridden hundreds of thousands of miles.

I have been giving guidance on advanced riding since 1999, when I became involved with BikeSafe as a police motorcyclist (was with Humberside police for nearly 30 years, obtaining Class 1 qualifications for both cars and bikes). Now I work as a civilian examiner and trainer, representing the Blue Riband, RoSPA, IAM Roadsmart, and the Enhanced Rider Scheme.

Having retired in 2016, I decided to put all the skills I’d learnt establishing Ian Speight Advanced Rider Training.

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with the BMF’s Blue Riband Rider Award, and recently became a volunteer rider with North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service FireBike team. In between times I also worked as a tour leader for Motorrad Tours. I now live just outside of York with my wife Kim, who is a keen pillion and we have covered thousands of miles together in the UK and Europe.

My work as a post-test trainer and examiner brings me into contact with people from all walks of life, with the common denominator being, they're all passionate bikers, who either want to maintain their current standard or are trying to improve upon it.

I'm proud to have been appointed as the National Lead for the BMF Blue Riband Rider Award.

Learn More (Ian Speight): www.ianspeight-training.co.uk Learn More (Blue Riband): www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk/bmfblue-riband-rider-award

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

New BMF Partnership: Motorcycle Mindset challenges, and is keen to hear ideas from members about what would help the most. She’ll also be offering 15% off group and 1:1 coaching services (sold direct via her website) exclusively to BMF members.

This partnership strengthens our commitment to helping motorcyclists enjoy riding for life - at every age and every stage. We’re delighted to welcome Claire to the BMF community and to add this important new layer of support for our members.

Learn more at www.motorcyclemindset.co.uk Follow: @mindsetmasterywithclaire on Instagram and Facebook Learn more: www.motorcyclemindset.co.uk Follow: @mindsetmasterywithclaire on Instagram and Facebook If you have any questions for Claire that you'd like her to answer in her BMF social media posts and magazine column, please send them to claire@bmf.co.uk www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk/ about-us/partners Above: Claire is uniquely qualified to advise on a motorcycle mindset

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he BMF is pleased to announce a new partnership focused on the human side of riding.

We’ve teamed up with Claire Jones, founder of YourOneLife Motorcycle Mindset Coaching. Claire is an award-winning life coach who specialises in motorcycle mindset and confidence.

Claire is not a riding instructor and doesn’t teach technical skills. Instead, she helps riders develop the psychological and emotional tools that underpin safe, confident and enjoyable motorcycling, and enable riders to make the most of their training.

Mindset is a vital human factor in riding. It influences posture, hazard perception, decision-making, emotional regulation and the ability to assess and manage risk, especially under pressure. Whether you're just starting o u t , coming back after a break, rebuilding after an incident or accident, or simply want to ride with more calm and clarity, mindset is key.

Claire delivers her work through social media, group workshops, and 1:1 coaching. She’s passionate about improving rider safety, wellbeing and enjoyment, and brings a unique skillset developed from working in high-pressure sectors like the NHS, fire service and prison system.

Claire will be providing regular articles, webinars, and a Q&Astyle column to support BMF members through common mindset www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

STOP PRESS – New Book Launch ‘Remember You’re a Rider’ by Claire Jones is now live on Amazon.

Riding a bike isn’t just about clutch control and passing tests. It’s about managing fear, pressure, identity and the emotional reality of learning or rebuilding confidence on a motorcycle. This book explores what happens on the inside, bridging the gap between technical training and the lived psychological experience of becoming a rider.

‘Remember You’re a Rider’ helps riders understand why confidence wobbles happen, how the nervous system affects riding, and what can actually help. With forewords by Jim Sanderson and Dr Jayne Wilson Link to purchase https://amzn.eu/d/iKciUTM Pics courtesy of: https://shiraleeswan.co.uk/

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BMF Takes on ABR Festival 2026

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ome events sit at the very heart of the UK motorcycling calendar and the ABR Festival is undoubtedly one of them.

So we’re delighted to announce that 2026 marks the first ever attendance by the BMF, and we will be there for the whole weekend.

Running from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th June (with optional Super Thursday access from 25th), the festival takes place at the magnificent Ragley Hall in Warwickshire. Set across acres of Capability Brown-designed parkland, rolling countryside and landscaped gardens, it’s a truly spectacular backdrop for what has become one of the biggest and most respected motorcycle gatherings in the country.

With around 20,000 riders expected this year, the ABR Festival will deliver three days packed with riding, learning, socialising and entertainment. Major manufacturers will be once again offering on-road demo rides through the Warwickshire countryside and with more than 30 miles of dedicated off-road trails, guided rides and skills sessions, there really is no shortage of ways to get involved. For those looking to start the day right, biker yoga led by Kate, who is also one of our BMF Ambassadors, provides the perfect warm-up before climbing back onto the saddle and if you're after something a little different, paddle boarding or kayaking on the estates lake offers the perfect chance to unwind between rides.

The speaker stages offer a welcome opportunity to sit back and absorb inspiring travel stories, hard-earned riding experiences and practical top tips from respected voices within the motorcycling world. It’s all part of what makes ABR more than just a festival – it’s a community.

As evening falls, the atmosphere lifts another notch as live bands headline the main stage, DJs bring energy to the dance tent, the Magic Teapot hosts more laid-back acoustic sessions, and the ever-popular silent disco keeps riders on their feet long after dark. Then add in ABR’s well-known ‘posh loos’ and hot showers plus quality camping and glamping options, it’s easy to see why so many riders return year after year.

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We Want to Meet You!

Come and say hello at our BMF gazebo, whether it’s to rave about your festival experience, raise an issue with motorcycling in your area or talk about getting more involved as a local representative or member – our team, including political lobbyist Paul Morgan CBE, are eager to chat.

Curious about how the BMF supports riders and campaigns at a national level?

Want to explore membership (single, joint or club affiliate)?

Or think there’s a business collaboration we’d be great for?

This is the place to start that conversation!

How to Book

Don’t miss out! Tickets are selling fast and are likely to sell out before the weekend starts. Get yours from the official ABR Festival page below.

We can’t wait to see you, share some stories and make our first BMF ABR Festival a summer highlight to remember. www.abrfestival.com/tickets/

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Book Reviews

By IAN KERR

Dancing Down the Pit Lane

The latest high quality hardback publication from Wideline Books may have an unusual title, but it is about a very unusual man – Stuart Hicken.

Stuart started off like many as a racer himself in the early ‘60s when the likes of Mick Grant were starting out. While he may not have progressed to a works team like Grant, he was no slouch and competed in the Isle of Man and ironically in later life ended up running teams at the TT with top riders like Michael Dunlop in his squad.

Originally working as motorcycle mechanic, Stuart ends up running his own shop, gets involved with the world of motocross and becomes a suspension expert working with White Power.

Still building engines for racing, he then moves into the world of team management, eventually running his own Team Hawk.

As a team boss he helps some of the best known UK riders in BSB and also ends up as Marketing Manager for Mallory Park before actually ‘owning’ the track after it was headed for just a name in the history books.

There is so much to tell in his impressive career that the 278 well-illustrated pages are not really sufficient and you get the impression that the quality book could have been double the size.

Contained in the eleven chapters are honest appraisals of some of the riders Stuart has worked with and members of the motorcycle industry he has come into contact with over some 60-odd years and at times no punches are pulled in his opinions which, to my mind makes it stand out!

You also get to know the costs of running teams and how they have to pay to race. Dealing with rider demands, working out how to keep everyone working to get results, burning midnight oil...all in a battle against manufacturers teams with big budgets. Stuart tells it like it is and for me that makes this book a real insight into the world of racing that we only see from afar.

When most people of a certain age will be winding down, it appears Stuart Hicken has, as he has always done, still got the throttle fully open thanks to his love and commitment to motorcycle sport and in particular racing. Highly recommended and worth every penny of £32. www.wideline.co.uk www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Stamford Bridge Speedway

The latest softbound book from London League Publications is another in their speedway range. The sport began in the UK in February 1928 and quickly became firm a favourite with massive crowds, bigger than many of today’s healthy football spectator numbers.

Venues quickly appeared all over the country with a large number appearing in the capital city with Stamford Bridge, the home of Chelsea Football Club since 1905, being the first major stadium to stage speedway in 1928. In that first historic season, the meetings were mainly individual races for a variety of trophies, some races were handicaps; others were match races with just two riders.

But in 1929, the introduction of team racing and leagues transformed the new sport. Stamford Bridge built a strong team, including Wal Phillips and Gus Kuhn, some of the top British motorcyclists from different forms of motor sport at that time who became top performers on the shale as well.

The team itself did well and many of the riders also took individual honours. All looked set for a promising future until 1932, when the promoters had major financial problems and speedway never returned to Stamford Bridge.

Well known speedway historians Jim Henry and Keith Corns have done their usual thorough documentation of the full five years of speedway at ‘The Bridge’. The 152 pages include profiles of all the riders who rode for the team, with some period images along with a comprehensive records section and in many ways an insight into life during that period.

Although aimed at speedway enthusiasts, it is still an entertaining read and well worth the £14.95 cover price. Available from good bookshops or direct from the publisher. www.llpshop.co.uk Motorcycle R I D E R

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Vietnam

Adventure

IAN KERR took a magical history tour by bike, seeing more than the obvious

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it at any port waiting for a ferry to or from Europe, and look at the rear of the queuing motorhomes – most seem to have adopted the sticker ‘Adventure before Dementia.’ And most of bikes (I’m generalising of course) wouldn’t be a good candidates for completing an I-Spy book of motorcycle marques, because most will be BMWs, and most of those GSs! Travel worldwide is big business now and while package holidays to Spain and Greece were the name of the game during the 1970s and ‘80s many people now want to explore further than a hotel swimming pool. Many countries now recognise this and embrace 20

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tourism, as in many cases this contributes greatly to their own economy.

From a motorcycle perspective, magazines and the web are full of stories about those who sell up and ride round the world on various, sometimes unsuitable, machines. Many riders make You Tube reports as they go and/or write books about their adventures when they return, hoping to knock John Grisham off the top spot in WH Smiths or Waterstones.

As a result of this almost seismic change in how people want to use their bikes, look at how the manufacturers have responded.

Adventure style machines have taken over from sports bikes, not only because of an ageing demographic of riders with aches and pains, but because people now want to travel before it’s too

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Right: Roadside café stop Far right: Period bridge complete with suitable flags Below right: Villages were... quiet

late. Not just bikes either – motorcycle clothing has adapted to meet the demand, with one-piece leathers almost a thing of the past. Sat navs have helped a lot, along with translating apps on mobile phones, as has the ease of crossing the Channel into Europe. But what if you want travel further afield and you cannot just disappear for months/years at a time due to work or family commitments, not to mention finances?

Motorcycle touring ‘holidays’ are now offered in abundance all around the world with either guided or self-guided trips that often include the hire of bikes, depending on location, especially those in long haul destinations. Look at our own bike shows in the UK – the number of exhibitors offering these trips is on the increase, but how do you know how good or bad they are?

I’ve been fortunate over the years to travel all around the world, at times using tour companies, and some trips have been better than others.

But I seem to have successfully managed to avoid the cost-cutting, basic, uninsured, shoestring outfits that friends and colleagues have encountered, normally as result of going for the cheapest option, or not researching thoroughly beforehand!

RAMS also offers tours in other far-flung destinations such as Tibet and Nepal, but the thing that I really like is that all come with guides, riding mechanics at the rear of the group, a luggage back-up truck and more importantly a riding paramedic. Nobody wants to think that they may come off, but even the slowest fall can result in a broken bone, and it’s nice to know there is someone to deal with it, especially if you are in the most remote parts of a country where help is hours away and you cannot speak the language!

Usually with such trips, although the booking and arrangements have been made in the UK, it is locals who actually conduct the tour. But this time (a first for me) Dave Lee, a paramedic who runs the company with his charming wife Leah, was actually at the

All Bases Covered

I had been to Vietnam several times before, but never on two wheels, and having heard many good things about such trips I was keen to try one for myself. RAMS Adventures, a UK-based company, was offering just what I was after, one that combined motorcycling with a chance to explore off the beaten track and get immersed in the diversity of the culture and Vietnam’s history.

Although other companies offer trips in the region, RAMS does an off-road trip, staying in the north. I was interested in seeing some of the history relating to the Vietnam War, which was almost continually in the news when I was growing up in the 1950s and ‘60s. www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

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Above and right: Abandoned US military hardware, and memorials, are evocative of the terrible war Below right: Another reason why Kawasaki traillies are standard issue

airport to meet me and ran the entire 14-day tour from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in the south, albeit with local help.

Good Education

The route we took followed the coastline, using mainly small roads that are sometimes not in the best of health, hence the use of Kawasaki 250cc and 230cc trail bikes, the smaller machines being better suited to those short on inside leg measurements.

Although all of our small group had arrived prior to the start of the tour and enjoyed a convivial meal getting to know each other beforehand, the first day of the actual tour was spent exploring Hanoi with visits to B52 bomber remains, (shot down during the war), the Hanoi Hilton (prison) and lunch at Train Street where the train literally passes inches from your restaurant table.

Afterwards, there was plenty of time to visit the factory outlet stalls to get cheap clothing and luggage bearing well-known brand names.

Travelling around on foot or by bus, you get a full-on impression of the traffic, the vast majority of which is on two wheels, whether it’s goods or people being transported. It’s also clear that the combined weight of passengers and goods exceeds anything the bike manufacturers intended, but the little bikes all seem to take it. If you have ridden in Rome or India, the two-wheel traffic in Hanoi is more frantic than either, but you soon get used to it!

We spent our second night on a train taking us down to collect the bikes where the roads weren’t so congested and the riding adventure really began. We started heading south straightaway, sometimes on tarmac roads, but also on hard packed trails and just occasionally, mud tracks. It was here too that we picked up our local guide and mechanic, along with back-up crew.

Stops were mainly taken in between visits to locations and 22

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landmarks featured in the news at the time. For instance, we visited the Khe Sanh airbase, with deserted planes and tanks still in situ, and crossed the Demilitarised Zone before following what has become known as the Ho Chi Minh trail, though as we found out, confusingly this does not exist as just one route.

Other stops included Hamburger Hill and the Vinh Moc tunnels, where a whole village lived underground to avoid the American bombing raids – not a trip for anyone suffering from claustrophobia! Very sobering was the village of Son My where the infamous massacre took place, commonly known as the My Lai massacre in the west despite the locations being 5km apart, but all the stops were very educational about the war without any PR spin being made.

A look around the Imperial Vity of Hue, which was once the capital, showed us the rich heritage of Vietnam, which has seen the influence of several other cultures such as the French, some of which can still be seen in the architecture.

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Above: Waiting for a ferry – you’re never far from water Right: Food isn’t a problem Below: Any bike problems were soon dealt with

All-In Package

Lunch was normally taken at small restaurants serving up local fare in great quantities (piling on the physical pounds) and evenings were spent in very diverse accommodation ranging from five-star hotels to tented huts on the banks of the largest freshwater lake in Vietnam.

If you watched the Top Gear special on Vietnam a few years ago, you’ll be pleased to know the day off from actually riding was taken in Hoi An. Here you can have a suit made or buy a ten-gallon hat (just like Richard Hammond) and get to ride up the famous twisty Ha Van pass, which almost converted Clarkson onto two wheels.

One thing is for sure, by the end of the trip in the bustling modern city of the former Saigon you will have seen the real Vietnam, outside of the usual tourist destinations of the major cities.

All the normal costs like fuel, food and lodging are part of the package so it is only beer (other beverages are available as the BBC would say...) and any gifts you may want to buy that require day to day cash. The exchange rate makes you a millionaire in the local currency several times over, but the airfare is down to you!

Having done many of these organised tours, I have to say that Dave and Leah provide a real five-star experience and treat you as friends rather than clients. It was quite a contrast with a rival trip I noticed, conducted on cheap Chinese Harley copies, with no real back-up and sticking to main roads – it was also quite short.

Like many of my riding compatriots, I’m now looking at some of RAMS other trips which I am sure will be equally five-star. www.rams-adventures.co.uk

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

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Meet Phil of Sealey

You may not have heard of Phil Joseph, but you will know Sealey Tools – we interview the man behind the workshop name Space Saving

MR: Tell us about your role at Sealey Tools – what does a Product Manager do?

Phil: My job is to research, develop and refine our motorcycle tool range. I spend a lot of time talking to other riders, mechanics and dealers to understand what works and what doesn’t. Because I ride myself, I know the frustrations of using tools that aren’t quite right – so I make sure our products are practical, durable and designed with real-world use in mind. My experience also allows me to alter existing designs of equipment and tools to adapt to changing motorcycle designs, or to design Sealey’s own products.

One example I’m really proud of is our space-saving motorcycle lifts. A lot of riders don’t have huge garages, so we developed lifts that are strong and stable but fold away neatly when not in use. It’s a game-changer for anyone working in a tight space – for example, the MCL500 single post lift and the MC550 that can be stood against a wall when not in use.

Satisfied customer – part of Phil’s job is meeting the buying public

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hen you buy a tool, you want to know it’s designed and sourced by someone who understands your world. At Sealey Tools, that person is Phil – a lifelong motorcyclist and the Product Manager responsible for their motorcycle tool and lifting equipment ranges. Motorcycle Rider sat down with Phil to learn more about his passion for bikes and how it shapes the tools riders rely on.

Motorcycle Rider: Phil, let’s start with the basics – who are you?

Phil: I’m Phil, Product Manager for motorcycle tools at Sealey Tools. I’ve been with the company for 19 years, and my role is all about making sure we provide the right tools for motorcyclists – tools that make maintenance and repairs easier, safer and more enjoyable.

MR: What’s your motorcycle background?

Phil: I’ve been riding from a young age because my dad raced Greeves Silverstone 250s at Crystal Palace in the 1960s, so motorcycles have always been a big part of my life. My first bike was a BSA 125 Bantam and I’ve continued riding throughout my life and now have several bikes, including a Honda Fury, NS125R Rothmans Race replica, a 1968 Honda CD175A in period Honda race livery, and even a VW trike.

I love everything about riding – the freedom, the engineering, and the community. My passion and experience really helps me understand what riders need when it comes to tools.

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www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Put those bin bags away – storage solutions for kit keep it neat and well aired

Opposite page below: Sealey’s latest lift is battery powered, useable in a shed without mains power Above: Lifts can be used with paddock stands Right: A neat addition to any garage wall

MR: Why is it important for riders to know that the person behind the tools is a motorcyclist?

Phil: It makes a big difference. When you’re passionate about something, you notice the details others might miss. I know what it’s like to be halfway through a job and realise you need a tool that’s suitable and easy to use. That’s why I push for designs that solve real problems that riders face. At Sealey, we’re not just selling tools, we test all tools and equipment rigorously to ensure they are fit for purpose – we’re helping riders enjoy their bikes without the stress of poor equipment.

MR: What’s your favourite tool in the Sealey motorcycle range?

Phil: That’s a tough one, but I’d have to say the MC550 is one of my top designs. I developed that lift to fill a gap that I’d identified in the home enthusiasts’ market, where space is limited but you still want a reliable, safe, full-length hydraulic motorcycle lift. This lift has just undergone a lengthy redesign so the 2026 version will be even more usable with optional additional extensions to enable using paddock stands but can still be stored in the corner of a garage, stood vertical.

This new design will be available from April or early May. Another design that is exclusive to Sealey is the MC454E, the world’s first 12v, full size electro-hydraulic motorcycle lift that can be powered by a standard 12-volt bike or car battery. This allows the www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

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user to have access to all the benefits of a push-button electric lift even if there is no 230v mains available. This means it can be used in garage in a block away from the house or in a shed with no power at the end of the garden.

Storage Solutions

MR: Apart from tools and machine maintenance products you have some other useful products for the riders themselves that you have developed. Tells us about those.

Phil: This has developed rapidly for Sealey, from launching the MS080 single helmet rack and jacket hanger and the MS081 double helmet version a while ago, we’ve added a range of hooks and hangers, and these include a version that has a helmet drying fan (MS0812D), which is great for both hot days when your head gets hot and the helmet gets damp from sweat...or being the UK, when you get soaked in a rainstorm! Circulating cool air through the helmet dries it out while reducing the risk of bacterial growth.

Based on this, I went on to add a helmet bag/rucksack (MS0816) that included the cooling design, but it can be powered by a small powerbank, so you can carry your lid with you, and it can dry out in the bag. The race teams also needed a version that could be used in the pits between races, se we launched the MS0815, a PU foam base that the helmet sits on with the same cooling feature, but it has the addition of an adapter to dry the gloves between races.

As riders we tend to have several options for riding gear (or I do at least) from full waterproof textile outfits, leather jackets, summer gear and even race type suits, so we’ve added two freestanding storage racks. The single-sided unit (MS081FS) has space for up to four crash helmets and space for boots and jackets and trousers.

Left: Helmet wall storage with built-in fan Below right: Phil is the public face of Sealey

The MS081FS2 a double-sided design that will take up to eight helmets, plus gloves and four sets of boots. I designed the MS081FS2, and it’s modular shelving, in as much as the shelves are movable to accommodate hanging a full set of one-piece leathers, two helmets and two sets of boots on one side and then six helmets, jackets and two pairs of boots on the other.

MR: Any advice for riders looking to maintain their bikes at home?

Phil: Invest in good tools. It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but quality tools save time, prevent damage and make the job safer. Start with the basics – a decent socket set, spanner set, JIS screwdrivers, torque wrench and paddock stand – and build up from there. And of course, check out Sealey’s motorcycle range; we’ve got everything from everyday essentials to specialist tools for more advanced work, plus the full range of helmet and motorcycle clothing storage solutions, padlocks and chains and ground anchors.

We even do covers for bike and trike along with shelters and temporary garages.

MR: Finally, what’s your favourite thing about working at Sealey?

Phil: Honestly, it’s seeing riders use our tools and knowing they make a difference.

Whether it’s a home mechanic or a professional workshop, I love it that our products help keep bikes on the road and riders happy.

Where to Find Sealey

Sealey offers one of the most comprehensive ranges of motorcycle tools in the UK, designed by riders for riders. From torque wrenches to spacesaving lifts, you’ll find everything you need to keep your bike in top condition.

Explore the full range at www.sealey. co.uk or ask your local dealer for Sealey motorcycle tools.

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Motorcycle R I D E R

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

FIVE OF THE BEST A2 MOTORCYCLES ON THE MARKET

Advertising Feature

A2 motorcycles are not just for those who are new to biking, or for those who are just waiting until they can get their full cat A licence.

They’re fun machines that are incredibly beneficial for a number of reasons. You might be looking for a bike that’s easy to manoeuvre, perfect for a commute or one that’s more fuel efficient.

We know what you’re thinking, but is it A2 licence compliant? It certainly is if you get a dealer to fit an A2 licence restrictor kit to make it accessible to new riders, which can then be easily reversed once you get a full licence.

HONDA CBR500R

2025 SUZUKI DR-Z4SM

The first bike on our list is the Honda CBR500R. With its twin-cylinder engine this iconic sports bike from the 1990s still allows riders to have a ‘big’ bike to ride, even if you only have an A2 licence. It’s one of the very few sports-style options available to you and comes just with a terrific 47bhp.

An easy-to-ride supermoto with a 398cc engine and increased low-down torque, the DR-Z4SM offers comfort and fun. It’s agile but reliable, and many reviewers state that a ride on this was like revisiting their youth.

This timeless-styled bike is perhaps the most elegant looking bike on this list. The strong blend of torque and a 900cc Bonneville twin engine, the Street Scrambler oozes character.

With its wide handlebars, high-level twin exhausts and upright riding position, it offers modern reliability while remaining traditional to its scrambler roots.

Updated to become Euro5+ compliant, this wonderful machine

by Yamaha has a triple headlight setup to suit the street style aesthetic perfectly for the MT range.

Performance-wise it has a two-cylinder 321cc engine with strong braking, but also comes with low-down torque to make the riding position slightly forward-facing for your stance.

Here, the biking experts at Bikesure have put together a list of five of the best A2 licence bikes you can buy today.

TRIUMPH STREET SCRAMBLER

YAMAHA MT-03

It also boasts 17-inch spoked aluminium rims, wrapped with sticky Dunlop Sportmax Q5A tyres, plus impressive upgrades from its predecessors, like ride-by-wire and the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S).

KAWASAKI NINJA 400 The Kawasaki Ninja is one of the most popular A2 licence sports bikes.

The 399cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine is around 33.4kW, meaning it fits perfectly within the 35kW A2 limit without the need of a restrictor kit.

It combines aggressive Ninja styling with sharp performance that is perfect for everyday activities and rides.

INSURANCE FOR YOUR A2 LICENCE BIKE No matter which motorcycle you own, you will, of course, need to get it insured. That’s where Bikesure can help.

As a specialist motorcycle insurance broker, we compare insurance premiums from dozens of providers to find you the right deal based on your needs.

Give us a call on 0800 503 3275 for a free no-obligation quote.

Get a quote today, call 0800 503 3275 BMF Insurance is administered by Bikesure Insurance Services which is a trading name of Adrian Flux Insurance Services. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

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Hot

Topic

H

eated clothing has been around for 100 years, but recent technology has seen its use by motorcyclists increase dramatically. Dan Sager asked the people behind KEIS developed in the UK and now one of the best-selling brands of heated kit on the market - about its past, present and future.

Doctor Sidney Russel may not be a familiar name to most motorcyclists, but we have him to thank for heated clothing, because in 1912 he patented an electrically heated pad to keep tuberculosis patients warm. This technology developed into heated blankets in the 1920s, spurred on by the introduction of a thermostatic control, invented by George Crowley.

Things took off, literally, during the Second World War, when the technology was adapted to create electrically heated suits for 28

Motorcycle R I D E R

Spring is here, but it could still be chilly enough for heated clothing - DAN SAGER is your guide

Above: Ride all year round?

Heated clothing could be a good idea Left: No wonder he’s cheerful – just got off the bike and still toasty

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

flight crews in various air forces, including the RAF. The only thing preventing its use on motorcycles was the 6-volt batteries and basic charging systems commonly in use, which didn’t produce sufficient power to generate warmth. It wasn’t until the 1970s and the introduction of 12-volt starter batteries that heated motorcycle clothing began to appear.

Things leapt forwards in the 21st century, when light and compact lithium batteries were developed that could be used to power heated clothing, without needing to draw power from the motorcycle battery. Today most major bike gear brands offer this in their ranges and you can find items to keep you warm from top to toe while on the move.

Need for Heat

Traditionally, human beings have relied on insulation to keep them warm when outdoors, wrapping up in layers of clothing to trap their body heat. However, when a cold wind blows, it eventually displaces the warmth, and quickly cools the wearer. When riding a motorcycle, the effect of wind chill is increased dramatically an ambient temperature of 10°C drops to 4°C when travelling at 50mph. That’s the temperature inside your fridge!

Apart from the discomfort of being cold, safety comes into the equation. Your body is designed to maintain a stable internal temperature of around 37°C. It only needs to drop by a couple of degrees for hypothermia to kick in.

“Hypothermia is a dangerous drop in body temperature below 35°C. It's a medical emergency that needs to be treated in hospital”. (Source: NHS website) Symptoms include shivering, tiredness or confusion, any one of which would make it difficult to control a motorcycle. In fact, the NHS recommends that you do not drive if you think you have hypothermia. Heated clothing delivers instant, controllable warmth when you need it, just like the heater in a car, helping keep your core body temperature at the optimum level.

Above: Small, lightweight batteries offer warmth without excess wiring right: All togged up and ready for the worst of UK weather (but you’ll have to change that visor)

Hot Wires

Traditionally, heated clothing relied on the same technology as electric blankets, using thin wires sewn into the garment to conduct heat. While this method works in theory, it is poorly suited for the rigors of active use. Unlike an electric blanket laid flat on a bed, motorcycle clothing is wrapped around the wearer and in constant movement. This continuous flexing causes wires to shift and touch, leading to short circuits that can burn the wearer or cause the garment to fail entirely. Over time, the physical stress of bending also causes these metal wires to snap, resulting in a total loss of power.

Modern advances have moved beyond these limitations.

Manufacturers like KEIS now utilise Micro Carbon Heating Technology, which replaces fragile wires with panels of woven, heat-conducting carbon fibres. These are inherently flexible, so they are not prone to the fatigue or breakage caused by movement. An added bonus is that they are resistant to moisture and distribute heat much more consistently across the garment, providing a safer and more reliable experience, without the risk of hot spots or circuit failure. www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Standard Issue

By law, personal protective equipment (including motorcycle helmets, clothing, boots and gloves) must be tested and approved to the relevant CE safety standards. That’s good news for consumers, because we can buy these items confident that they will do what it says on the tin.

Heated motorcycle gloves must be certified to EN 13594:2015, which is the standard for protective motorcycle gloves. The only exception is for heated inner gloves, designed to be worn under regular motorcycle gloves. When buying online, beware of anything advertised as heated gloves suitable for motorcycling from brands you don’t recognise, especially at low prices. Check that they carry the appropriate CE mark for motorcycle gloves, rather than something else, (like gardening gloves!).

Knowing that the gloves will protect you in the event of an accident is reassuring, but how do you know if they’ll keep you warm? You’ll need to figure that out for yourself, by checking which areas are heated. Fingers, in particular, are exposed to wind Motorcycle R I D E R

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shirts or pants, which can push the element into the user and burn them, even if wearing an under layer. *Do choose a size that fits snugly, without being tight. Heated panels pressed tightly against body parts can create painful hot spots. *Don’t turn the heat up to maximum, just because it makes you feel all warm and cosy. Heated clothing is designed to stop you getting cold, rather than making you hot.

The Future Looks Appy

Multi-layers, good insulation and keep out draughts...

blast and are very sensitive. To maximise warmth, KEIS weave the Micro Carbon Fibre element around the outside of each finger.

Heated clothing is generally designed to be worn under motorcycle jackets, trousers and boots, so it falls outside the Personal Protective Equipment directive and doesn’t need to be CE-marked.

As a starting point, when deciding what to buy, look for items made by a reputable motorcycle-specific brand and backed by a warranty.

Next, ask the following three key questions: 1. Will it fit comfortably under my riding jacket, trousers or boots and be flexible enough to allow freedom of movement on the bike?

2. Are the heating panels located in spots that are likely to be most exposed?

3. How will I power it? Should I take power directly from the motorcycle battery, a 12V socket or does it come with its own power pack?

Do’s and Don’ts

Staying warm not only makes motorcycling in cold conditions safer and more enjoyable, but also extends your riding season.

Before you take the plunge, KEIS have a few tips to set you in the right track: *Don’t wear heated clothing against bare skin (apart from gloves and socks). The heat can cause you to sweat and that moisture could scald you, in certain circumstances. *Do wear heated clothing over a thin base layer, so the warmth is close to your body, without touching the skin. *Don’t wear heated clothing under stretch-fit body armour 30

Motorcycle R I D E R

Smart technology has revolutionised our daily lives in the 21st century. Thanks to the latest apps it’s now possible to control your central heating, dishwasher and doorbell from your smartphone.

Heated clothing brands, including KEIS, are developing hardware that can be incorporated into the control buttons on their garments, so that it will be possible to set heat levels from a smartphone. Apart from making it easier to manage while riding a bike, it also means you can set different heat levels for the various items of clothing you wear - gloves on medium, vest on low, etc.

There are already a couple of brands offering apps for selected products in their ranges and you can expect to see this technology becoming more widely available throughout 2026. www.keisapparel.com

Power to the People

Before the advent of light and compact lithium batteries, heated clothing had to be powered directly from the motorcycle’s starter battery, and this is still the best option.

While the engine is running, power is always available, for as long as required. You can also run as many garments as you like, within reason, and KEIS design their jackets, vests and bodywarmers with additional plugs, so you can ‘daisy-chain’ gloves, trousers or socks from them. The only drawback is the inconvenience of being attached to the bike by a cable.

Alternatively, you could plug into a 12V power outlet on your motorcycle, if it has one, although its output might be limited, (often 5-10 amps), which could restrict the number of garments you can run. Power draw is relatively modest - a KEIS heated vest draws just 1.4 amps, half as much as an LED spotlight, and a pair of heated gloves use around 3 amps.

If you’re only wearing one item of heated clothing, such as a bodywarmer or gloves, then a battery power pack is more convenient and allows you to use the heated kit for other pastimes, (fishing, hiking, winter sports, etc). The only issue to consider is run time. For example, KEIS 3000 mAh glove batteries (one per glove) deliver reliable warmth for up to 6-8 hours on a low setting or 3-4 hours on medium, depending on conditions. That’s probably sufficient for most winter rides, unless you’re touring in a cold climate, spending hours in the saddle each day.

A few brands, including KEIS, produce Dual Power heated clothing, which can be run either from the motorcycle battery or a power pack.

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Meet the Members: Ruby & Mick

M

otorcycling in Britain has always been more than just a pastime – more a way of life, community and a family tradition. In this special feature for Motorcycle Rider, we bring together stories from recent BMF events, highlighting the inspiring journey of Ruby and her father Mick, alongside the wider Federation’s commitment to family, volunteering and the joy of two wheels.

Born To It

At just 18 years old, Ruby represents the next generation of riders and volunteers. She’s been immersed in bikes since birth, attending her first rally at six weeks old and growing up surrounded by the sound, look and lifestyle of motorcycles. She’s passed her CBT, now rides a Sym Jet 125 but wants to progress to her dream machine, a Yamaha R6.

She’s already worked as a volunteer marshal, following in the footsteps of her father Mick and discovering the confidence and camaraderie that comes with being part of the BMF’s pink-vested team.

Mick too, grew up around bikes, and attending his first rally at Peterborough at 16, riding there on his Honda SS50. Over the years, he became deeply embedded in the UK motorcycle scene, attending hundreds of rallies and volunteering as a BMF marshal. He and Ruby’s mum volunteered together until family commitments paused their involvement, but Mick later rediscovered the BMF, rejoined the team, and invited Ruby to volunteer alongside him. For Mick, marshalling is about more than logistics, it’s about community, responsibility and the joy of shared experiences.

Rewards of Marshalling

Ruby was interviewed by Kate Harrington (former TT racer, now BMF Ambassador) at Motorcycle Live, introducing her as one of the BMF’s youngest volunteer marshals and highlighting Ruby’s generational journey alongside Mick.

She was struck by the sheer scale of the event, reconnecting with familiar faces and chatting with riders. Yet while Ruby dreams of racing one day, she acknowledges her own limits and focuses on learning, volunteering and enjoying the wider motorcycle lifestyle.

Her first marshalling experience was transformative. She recalls the joy of seeing how happy everyone was, bonding with people who www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Left: BMF volunteer marshals get together to help at events – Right: Immersed in bikes and the BMF since birth, Ruby’s now a regular volunteer marshal

shared her interests – volunteering has given her confidence and a sense of belonging.

In 2025 Ruby and Mick officially marshalled together at the BMF Connected weekend at Mallory Park, as well as at the Dambusters Rally – she described Connected as a highlight in meeting new people and making friends. “When you marshal,” says Mick, “you’re making a commitment to work,” adding that the reward is from fellow riders: “People shaking your hand as they pack up and leave, saying ‘thanks for playing your part’ in giving them a good weekend.”

For Mick, volunteering with Ruby is also about quality time.

“We spend a lot of time together and we’re buddies, not just father and daughter.” In fact, he believes volunteering can be hugely valuable for young people. His advice to parents is simple: “Let them tag along for a few events, see what it’s about, and if they show interest, encourage them.”

Looking Ahead

Ruby and Mick are already committed to marshalling throughout the 2026 season, and their story is a powerful reminder of what the BMF stands for: community, support and futureproofing motorcycling in the UK. With the right encouragement, good training and strong organisations behind them, the next generation of riders and volunteers isn’t just coming through, they’re already here!

The Federation’s work in highlighting family stories, encouraging youth involvement and celebrating the camaraderie of rallies, events & bike meets ensures that motorcycling remains vibrant, inclusive and sustainable. Ruby and Mick embody this mission, proving that motorcycling is not only about machines but also about people, relationships and shared experiences.

This feature is part of the BMF’s ongoing commitment to celebrate the stories that make motorcycling in Britain unique — stories of family, friendship and the future.

Call to Action

Inspired to join the BMF as a member or volunteer marshal and be part of the ride? Email: admin@bmf.co.uk

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©Trui Hanoulle

WIMA

The History of a club The Women’s International Motorcycle Association is an unusual club in a number of respects; it’s for women, it’s genuinely international and it’s got a long history.

It’s also blessed with members who could produce a history ‘from 1950 to the present day’ in English with a huge number of photos reaching back to the start.

T

he amount of research is daunting, a project of half a decade, involving multilingual documentation and coordination. The brain child of the BMF’s former Communications Director, Sheonagh Ravensdale as Editor with many assistants, including the Co-Editor Åsa Öhqvist, Louise Hillier as Designer, who also designs this magazine, with 2025 updates by Caroline Lunnon who waded through archives of material.

As befits a club that has a long history there have been previous attempts at recording events and people via newsletters and more, including a history written by Frances Popley in 1980, which delved into the charismatic, inspirational Founder and First International President Louise Scherbyn, and Theresa Wallach, First International Vice-President. Like any club there have been 32

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mixed fortunes over the years, in 1968 Frances Popley recorded 107 members worldwide with the majority in the anglophone countries – UK, USA and Australia/New Zealand – with 39 from Germany and ‘the rest of Europe’. How things have changed!

In 2024 there were 3,841 members from 38 countries, far

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Right: Sheonagh Ravensdale, key member of WIMA and one of the powers behind this book

too many to list here. Many smaller national branches have a handful of members, often featuring a resourceful single person who provides the club dynamic. Some seeming anomalies, for example, who would have guessed that Lichtenstein would have 18 members – at a guess that would represent a significant

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

proportion of the national riders? Or the post-Soviet bloc countries, whose pre-1990 presence was negligible but now number half a dozen national clubs, including Ukraine.

What does WIMA do? As an international club for women, every third Sunday in May is WIMA day, when national clubs promote the message, ‘Women riders are everywhere and we’re here to stay! Our aim is to break stereotypes, promote gender equality and showcase the skills and passion of women motorcyclists. The day is a celebration of diversity, resilience, and the unifying power of motorcycling.’ A message which probably resonates strongly in more traditional societies.

Then there are the rallies. The national branches hold their annual events, but every year a national club holds the International Rally, moving from country to country annually – last year’s was in Germany. The UK last hosted in 2019; we ran a report in Rider.

The Jubilee history delves into every Rally report, every national organization including defunct clubs. Whatever aspect that one could be interested in is covered in this comprehensive history, which this reviewer considers the best advertisement for a motorcycle membership organization ever written. It reflects the enthusiasm and commitment of the authors and the whole community that is WIMA. Possibly the best part is that it’s freely available, unless another print run is decided on, here: www.wimagb.co.uk/wima-diamond-jubilee-book/

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THE LEGAL COLUMN

Accident compensation can be affected by the kit we wear - MARY LOMAS (Fletchers Solicitors) explains

S

• • • •

o what is the law around protective kit for bikers? Under UK law you must wear a helmet that meets safety standards when riding a motorcycle on the road. The Standards are: British Standard BS 6658:1985 and carry the BSI Kitemark UNECE Regulation 22.05 UNECE Regulation 22.06 A European Economic Area member standard offering at least the same safety and protection as BS 6658:1985, and carry a mark equivalent to the BSI Kitemark.

Visors and Goggles must also meet safety standards.

The SHARP helmet safety scheme lists approved helmets and how much protection they offer – you can view these online (www.sharp.dft.gov.uk).

In a civil claim for personal injury, if you ride without a helmet or if your helmet is incorrectly fitted or has not been fastened correctly then you could be found to be contributory negligent in a compensation claim. This could have the effect of reducing your levels of compensation received. More importantly, a badly fitting or incorrectly fastened helmet could mean that you sustain more serious injury.

Must I Wear PPE?

In terms of protective clothing there is no law in the UK about wearing PPE but the government guidelines state that specialised motorcycle gear is highly recommended and that it could save your life.

Does lack of protective clothing mean that you will be found contributory negligent in a civil claim? The court considers two tests in determining whether there will be contributory negligence. One is the ‘moral blameworthiness’ of the respective parties, and the other is ‘causative potency’ of the parties’ actions.

There would need to be evidence that if the claimant had done something different the injury would not have been as bad or happened at all. So, for example if a rider was wearing shorts and flip flops and was hit by a car, sustaining serious leg injury including degloving, then evidence might be brought to show that if he had been wearing the proper kit he would not have sustained the degloving injury. In that instance it is likely that there would be some reduction in the damages received.

What if the Kit Fails?

Let’s also think about the scenario where you believe that you are wearing protective kit but it fails or a defect causes worse injuries.

In that situation you might have a claim under the Consumer Protection Act 1987. In these cases, it must be proved that the clothing or helmet failed to meet expected safety standards, that it caused injury, and that you had been using it correctly.

What to Do

If you are involved in an incident make sure you take pictures of any items that you were wearing, in particular any damage to the items, as you will be able to claim for like for like replacements.

If you believe equipment was faulty you need to keep hold of the gear, take pictures, try and find proof of purchase and report the incident to the retailer and to the manufacturer.

The most important thing to remember is that your kit could save your life, so it is worth investing in the best you can and take good care of it. As a motorcyclist, you are classed as a vulnerable road user when on your bike – your protective kit is one way to give yourself greater protection on the roads, in case the worst happens.

www.fletcherssolicitors.co.uk

www.fletcherssolicitors.co.uk BMF Legal Line: 01625 506697 34

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www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

Club Profile

Salisbury Motorcycle & Light Car Club

T

Join the Club

www.salisburymotorcycle andlightcarclub.co.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/salisburymotorcycle andlightcarclub/ Become a BMF affiliated club: www.britishmotorcyclists. co.uk/clubs

he BMF is pleased to welcome Salisbury Motorcycle & Light Car Club as an affiliated club, further strengthening our growing network of local clubs that support riders and motorcycling communities across the UK. Clubs are at the heart of what the BMF stands for. They connect riders at grassroots level, organise events, keep local motorcycling traditions alive and create spaces where like-minded enthusiasts can meet, ride and share experience.

By affiliating with the BMF, Salisbury Motorcycle & Light Car Club becomes part of a national voice that works to protect and promote motorcycling for the benefit of all riders.

Based in the south west, the club has built a reputation for well-organised runs and trials that make the most of the outstanding roads across Wiltshire and Dorset. For 2026, the club has chosen DocBike as its Charity of the Year and will host a programme of public fundraising events open to both members and non-members.

2026 Public Charity Events • Five Valleys Charity Motorcycle Run – Sunday 26th April • Horses & Henges Solstice Motorcycle Run – Sunday 21st June • Lightweight Motorcycle Run (up to 350cc) – Sunday 19th July • Arbuthnot Long Distance Trial – Sunday 6th September • Roy Webb’s Mavro Charity Motorcycle Run – Sunday 27th September These events reflect the club’s strong commitment to supporting charitable causes while bringing riders together to enjoy some of the finest motorcycling routes in the region.

The BMF welcomes Salisbury Motorcycle & Light Car Club and looks forward to supporting their activities throughout 2026 and beyond.

Promote your Club!

Want your club to be profiled on these pages?

Email us: editor@bmf.co.uk

BMF INSURANCE

Up to nt iscou 10% d BMF for ers memb

FOR BMF MEMBERS It’s time to get a great deal on your motorcycle cover with BMF Insurance, underwritten by Bikesure, the broker that likes to do insurance a little differently.

BMF Insurance is designed with riders like you in mind.

We know bikes and we know bikers and we have the expertise to provide a competitive insurance quote that is truly reflective of your insurance needs.

We want you on the road as much as you want you on the road, so we’ll do all we can to get you a deal with better cover at a better price.

But the best thing of all, your policy will be underwritten by Bikesure who have been leading the field in the motorcycle insurance business for more than 30 years.

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Get a quote today, call 0800 587 2955 BMF Insurance is administered by Bikesure Insurance Services who are a trading name of Adrian Flux Insurance Services. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

www.britishmotorcyclists.co.uk

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Down YOUR WAY ALL THE BMF CONTACTS YOU NEED SCOTLAND – REGION 1

Regional Chair - Tom Duncan 01506 842131, 07887 835321 tom@tomduncan.co.uk AYRSHIRE - Pauline Speirs 01560 321791, fastrakscotland@aol.com GLASGOW - Nick Elliott 01416 379305 drnickelliott@gmail.com NORTH EAST– REGION 2

HALIFAX - Alex Parsons-Hulse 07702 229 311 bmfregion2rep@bmf.co.uk BINGLEY - John Lancaster 01274 560174, john-lancaster@sky.com Tyne and Wear- Michael Mangan manganelectricalservices@gmail.com MIDLANDS – REGION 3

COVENTRY AND WEST MIDLANDS John Nelson jsnlsn@btinternet.com DERBYSHIRE - John Hutchinson 07876 756 356 hutchpeaks@btinternet.com WARWICKSHIRE - Mark Lunt 07767 870117 mark.a.lunt@gmail.com NOTTINGHAMSHIRE Jerry Hough, 07825 997969 jerry.hough@mail.com HEREFORD AND WORCESTER Frank Whittaker, 01531 635843 frankwhittaker62@gmail.com LINCOLNSHIRE - Mitch Elliott 07982 802 588 elliott.mitch@gmail.com STAFFORDSHIRE - Jeffrey Brook 07401 070 934 jeffbrook89@outlook.com EAST ENGLAND – REGION 4

CAMBRIDGESHIRE - Tim Flinders, 01223 212721 LONDON– REGION 5

Anna Zee, anna.zee@bmf.co.uk South London Charles Deakin 07951 978 283 deakie57@live.co.uk SOUTH EAST – REGION 6

HAMPSHIRE - Ian Hammond 07989 531121 iphamonda@googlemail.com OXFORDSHIRE - Hugh Jaeger 01865 554814, 07762 093310 hugh_jaeger@hotmail.com SURREY - Michael Gray hello@graymic.co.uk West Sussex - Mark O’Dwyer 07824 554 927 markodwyer67@gmail.com 36

Motorcycle R I D E R

SOUTH WEST – REGION 7

BRISTOL - Alan Maynard 07305 544 884 excalibur08@blueyonder.co.uk CORNWALL - Tiffany Coates 07805 078062 tiffanycoates@hotmail.com DEVON - James Maynard 07791 412 957 maynard23@live.co.uk WEST WILTSHIRE - Les Simper 07789 354371 leslie.simper@btinternet.com WALES – REGION 8

Central Wales - Phil Harries 07968 168486 dpharries1@aol.com SOUTH WALES - Steve Preston 07906 167 357 bmfsteve@bmf.co.uk North Wales Tina Walker tinaalena@hotmail.co.uk NORTH WEST – REGION 9

Regional Chair - Dave Barton 07971 519004 bmf_r9@notrab.co.uk CHESHIRE - Jim Bradburn 01606 836782 jimbradburn@hotmail.co.uk EAST LANCASHIRE - Peter Laidlaw 07939 260524 peter.laidlaw@bmf.co.uk Mick Gibbons 07940 816492 mick.gibbonsindarwen@gmail.com Steven Bartley, 01254 278187 ste.bartley@googlemail.com Merseyside - Dave Flooks 07764 788637 daveflooks@yahoo.com WEST LANCASHIRE - Dave Barton 07971 519004 bmf_r9@notrab.co.uk NORTHERN IRELAND- REGION 10

Regional Chair - Howard Anderson 07918 903497 howand@hotmail.co.uk CO. ANTRIM - David Gillespie (club liaison) 02893 350495, 07882 525777 gwocni@hotmail.com

Numbered Regions COUNCILLORS

R1 - Kona Macphee, 07747 651 877 kona@cloverleaf.scot R2 - Michael Mangan manganelectricalservices@gmail.com R3 - Mitch Elliott, 07982 802 588 elliott.mitch@gmail.com John Nelson jsnlsn@btinternet.com Mike Fairhead mjf.phone@gmail.com R5 - Juergen Buechner buechner.bmf@gmail.com Tim Ahern timothy_ahern@msn.com Jim Freeman, jim.freeman@bmf.co.uk Greg Apostolidis gregory.apostolidis@hotmail.com R6 -Michael Gallafent michaelgallafent@yahoo.co.uk Ian Hammond iphamonda@googlemail.com Gregory Apostilidis gregory.apostilidis@hotmail.com Alex Chalmers apchalmers@googlemail.com Hugh Jaeger hugh_jaeger@hotmail.com Steve Thomas stephanthomas1963@icloud.com Scott Edy scott.edy83@gmail.com R9 - Dave Barton bmf_r9@notrab.co.uk David Flooks daveflooks@yahoo.com R10 - David Gillespie, 07882 525 777 gwocni@hotmail.com

NATIONAL AND ONE-MAKE CLUBS FORUM (NaOMC)

Chair - Stephen Davenport stephendavenport98@me.com Secretary - John Gardner 01695 622792 john.gardner119@gmail.com NaOMC Councillors

Norman Powers - Loch Lomond pollard1942@gmail.com Laurence Mee - TOMCC membership@tomcc.org Tim Kirker - VOC tim.kirker@zen.co.uk Jacqueline Bickerstaff - VOC jacqueline.bickerstaff@btinternet.com John Nicholas DOC bmfrep@docgb.net Tim Kirker - Vincent HRD tim.kirker@zen.co.uk John Gardner - TOMCC john.gardner119@gmail.com John Nicholas - Ducati bmfrep@docgb.net Pete Wilson - BSA Bantam secretary@bsabantamclub.org.uk Paul Rouse paul.rouse2022@outlook.com Steve Corner steve.corner@nortonownersclub.org

MORE BMF REPS NEEDED! If your county is not listed and you would like to be a BMF rep, we would love to hear from you - please email admin@bmf.co.uk WRONG NUMBER?If these aren’t the right contact details, let us know at admin@bmf.co.uk and we’ll put it right.

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