I’ve been an IAM Roadsmart bike examiner since last year and it’s worth noting that the IAM approach was overhauled in 2016. There is a clear standard now & every candidate should get the same test.
It’s not a police test so to expect the standard of a police rider who has probably had 200 hours of full time training + regular refreshers would be unrealistic.
The examiner has limited discretion on speeding, so if you take a clear decision to overtake a car & you’re over the limit, that’s a fail.
A safe & legal thinking ride, with reasonable progress and without surprising anyone else on the road should see a pass.
Sorry,
The IAM is not a national standard, if you straightline or off-side in Englandshire as long as it is done safely it isn't an issue (common misconception for examiners doc by Peter Rogers) however do it in Scotlandville it is a fail.
Why because Tulliallan doesn't do it therefore all Police Scotland trained don't do it, whether it is safe or not.
Example, 3 mini roundabouts in a row which can be straightlined without crossing white line, perfect vision and no other road user's, do you treat each one separately and ride around it circular fashion or link them, to the furthest point you can see, and straighten them out.
To me the first option isn't advanced riding, the second is. BUT if you do first one you could fail, as it isn't showing forward planning where as if you do second one in Scotland you WILL fail.
It is inconsistencies like this that make organisations look stupid to outsider's.
Another small point is this, my speedo may say 59mph where yours say 62mph, which is correct ?
If, I was behind someone doing 59mph in a nsl it'd be following position; Depending on how they're driving, all over the road, chatting to mate, putting on make up or driving up the arse of the lorry in front of them, then I'll be at least double the following distance, safer for me.
There are occasions where pulling over and getting a gap is the best and safest option, there is no emergency to attend so why risk your life ?
What I can see
What I cannot see
What I can reasonably expect to develop.
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