(30-12-13, 12:14 PM)Fuzzy link Wrote: I did an IAM course a few years ago and it helped a lot. I've become a far better rider since. I ride 2up regularly and I do so in complete confidence in my abilities and the pillion's safety. The advanced course/rides will help in themselves but they also let you learn and improve after you've finished them.
I think it's £60 odd for membership and then factor in another £60 or so for the rides/course before taking the test.
Just a small correction: Skill for Life is now £139 however this includes your IAM Membership, your Test Fee and you get a year's worth of RAC cover thrown in for free too.
You'll generally pay £10 or £15 for each Observed Ride to cover the Observer's petrol cost (they're volunteers, so don't get paid) and you'll need to join the local Group as well, but once you pass you'll be able to get a discount on your insurance.
You also get to go on Group Rides, attend Club Nights and similar events, depending on what your local Group Does.
You can find your nearest Group here.
Quote:Most of the observers/instructors I met fit the pipe and slippers stereotype but lots of them rode professionally and will be very good riders. When I first started, I was shocked by how fast they all were too.
When the Advanced Technique starts to click, you find that riding becomes a lot easier because you're looking further ahead, positioning better and have more control eg I've seen an Observer on a Pan keeping up with an Associate on a Blade through the twisties and making it look easy!
[Edited to add in the link that I missed out above!]