Training for Advanced Rider Qualification

HOW WE DO IT

The method we teach is based on the Police system of motorcycle control, designed to make you a better and safer rider and is used by all the emergency services to train their riders. Known as IPSGA, the system is made up of four phases – position, speed, gear & acceleration, all driven by observation and awareness of hazards: that’s the “i” for information.

This may not be rocket science, but it is a rigorous and well proven system. The short video below illustrates and describes the system in more detail.

The teaching will require some study, not only of the highway code, but also some of the excellent books on motorcycle roadcraft.

Once registered with IAM you will receive a copy of the Advanced Rider Course Logbook. You will also receive a welcome pack from DAM which will tell you everything you need to know about our club. When you have completed and returned your registration documents one of our Observer/Instructors will be assigned to you and your training can begin.

Bring your logbook to your first meeting with your Observer. He or she will be your personal tutor and one-to-one guide to get you test ready. They will talk about and demonstrate safe riding techniques and observe your riding. Each session will last 2-3 hours. Using the same scoring as the IAM Roadsmart test, your Observer will give you constructive feedback and identify areas to work on. Scores and comments will be included on one of the observed run sheets included in your Advanced Rider Course (ARC) logbook. Ahead of your next observed run you should work on what you have learnt and make sure you are familiar with the theory of riding from the books and handouts.

After an average of 6 observed runs, dependent on your initial experience and time spent practicing advanced skills, an independent senior Observer from the club will take you out to assess if you are test ready.  

In addition to the Observed rides, there are regular workshops and other training events. 

You’ll then go for your IAM Roadsmart test. Your examiner is usually an ex or serving Class One Police rider who will be looking for you to demonstrate a safe, systematic, smooth and progressive ride with restraint where necessary for your own and other road user’s safety. In our club, most riders pass the Advanced test first time, but if you don’t, we’re here to support you with further training.