FAQs

All training is done on a one-to-one basis with an assigned observer. Runs typically last an hour and a half, and will cover a wide variety of road types from small country back lanes through sweeping A roads to motorways. At intervals, you will stop and your observer will advise on any improvements that can be made to your riding.

In addition, CAM run a series of classroom sessions giving theoretical knowledge to back up the practical advice, and occasional machine control days where you can hone skills such as braking, countersteering and slow speed manouvering away from the road.

How to read the road; how to anticipate and deal with hazards; how to avoid other peoples’ mistakes; a smooth, efficient, fast riding style; how ‘the system’ of machine control can help you; better mechanical sympathy; better machine control; accident avoidance; hundreds of other tips and techniques for better riding.

You can train with us and take the test on any bike provided it is roadworthy and able to sustain 70mph.

Currently, no. Remember that we train by observing rather than instructing. Your observer will watch you riding for a while, then stop you and give advice and suggestions, rather than give instructions.

No. Your observer (or assessor) will describe a route before you set off, but it doesn’t matter if you don’t follow it, you’re not being tested on your memory! Your observer will help by indicating well in advance, so if you are using your mirrors you will know where to go.
On group runs, the drop-off system is usually used, so it’s almost impossible to take a wrong turn.

During observed runs, your observer will expect you to keep strictly to signposted 30 and 40mph limits, especially in built up areas. What matters though is that your speed is approriate for the conditions. In national speed limits you should constantly adapt your speed in accordance with the hazards around you, and exercise your own discretion.

During the test, yes, the assessor will expect you to demonstrate that you know what the speed limit is, and ride up to it accurately if safe to do so. It is worth checking your bike’s speedo using a GPS unit or similar well before the test, as bike speedos can over-read by 10% or more, and you may be able to go faster than you think.

Yes. The Police Bikesafe courses are just a quick introduction to advanced rider training, and there is a limit to how much they can teach you in a weekend. CAM is perfectly placed to help you take that training further.

While experience is always a good thing, bear in mind that the riding system we teach has been developed by many expert riders and instructors over several decades. No individual rider could reasonably be expected to work out all the hundreds of advanced riding tips and tricks for themselves — there is always more to learn.

You may if you wish, but it might be beneficial to get a few months experience under your belt first. You need to be able to handle your machine confidently and easily to allow you to concentrate on other matters such as anticipating hazards, road positioning etc.

Yes. It’s important to be able to ride safely in all conditions, so with the possible exceptions of ice, snow or gales you should get out there and practice! As they say, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing.

It depends entirely on how much practice you do, and how quickly you learn, but remember that the test is not easy. 6-10 observed runs and 8-10 months is typical, but there is no upper or lower limit. Our observers will continue to help you as long as you need them.

Under the IAM’s Roadsmart program, a one-off payment of £215 includes a year’s membership of CAM, a year’s membership of the IAM, a copy of the Advanced Rider Course logbook and the Test fee. Our Observers, who are all unpaid volunteers, will provide you with as much training time as you want or need for just a few pounds petrol money per run

No. We appreciate it’s quite a commitment: if you’re in doubt then head across to our Contact Us page and request a Taster Ride with one of our Senior Observers instead. Most riders enjoy the experience, but if it’s not for you then you won’t have lost anything

Yes, most companies will give a reduction in your premium if you pass the advanced test. This varies between companies and you should ask them what they offer when renewal time comes around.

Riders who reach test standard also have far fewer accidents than average, which translates to much more significant insurance savings!

Your observer is the best person to judge this. When they think your riding has reached at least test standard, they will advise you to apply for the test, and will usually arrange for you to take a mock test with another observer for practice.

The test takes a format very similar to observed runs. The assessor will direct you on a variety of roads, and follow closely behind you. They may ask you do to a few slow-speed manoeuvres (U-turns etc.) and may ask you a few questions about Roadcraft and the Highway Code at the end of the test. It takes around one to one and a half hours. At the end of the test, the assessor will tell you if you have passed, and also give you detailed constructive feedback on your run. Pass or fail, you should listen to the debrief!

No big deal! Anyone can have a bad run, especially if you suffer from nerves on the day. Simply continue training and reapply when you are ready. Don’t give up!

Although our main aim is to help you train for and pass your advanced test, your involvement with the club need not end there. Full members are encouraged to stay active in CAM, join social rides and events and also lead rideouts. If you want to give something back there are lots of ways to help the club which is run entirely by volunteers, or take the next step and become a trainee observer.