Chris, Nathan & Instructor Paul take a break in Fanny’s Rest Stop during their Mod 1 practice in Newport today.

A well deserved break. From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074

Braking in the wet or on slippery surfaces requires a delicate touch. On a wet road the braking effort should be more 50 – 50 With even pressure on both brakes. On slippery surfaces, ice, snow or riding through a river like the rider below, avoid the front brake unless the bike is upright travelling in a straight line and then only use the lightest pressure. When slow manoeuvring it is better to avoid the front brake all together and just use a light dragging pressure on the rear brake. This will help to stabilise the bike and you are less likely to lose the front end.

Remember the brakes are not ‘on – off’ switches but require smooth progressive application.

Ride safely on these icy mornings. From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074

Adam & Nick at the end of the day on Saturday after some practice on the 600s before their Mod 1 tests to come…… so long as the snow stays away! From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074

It’s come to light recently that some riders don’t know the correct method for applying their brakes. Research has shown that around 20% of riders never use their front brake.

Yet the front brake is the most efficient stopping brake. On our CBT we give a demonstration showing the difference between the effectiveness of the individual brakes.

The brakes should never be snatched on but applied smoothly and progressively (not aggressively). It is recommended that the front brake is applied immediately before the rear. Both brakes together but the front just before the rear, with more pressure applied to the front than the rear. The front brake should only be used when upright travelling in a straight line.

So remember brake in plenty of time and vary the brake pressure according to the road surface and weather conditions.

For more detailed advice take a look at Roadcraft – The Police Riders Handbook, or give us a call. From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074

Bike Gear is back on sale in Aldi this weekend. We are pleased to be included in their ‘Special Buys’ leaflet and on their Website. The leaflet is out now. Check out their kit in store from Sunday. “These boots are made for riding”…. From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074

Is this why we have SMIDSYs. Sorry Mate, I Didn’t See You.

It’s not always because car drivers don’t look for bikes, but the human eye will pick up the largest object first. This is why its important for bikers be use your mirrors and be aware of what is behind you and what may be catching the eye of other motorists before they see you.

So if you see a car about to pull out from a side road into your path, check your mirrors and be prepared. From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074

If your bike gear is a bit worn out and you want to get ready for the Spring Biking Season then Aldi have a range of bike gear, clothing and accessories that will be on sale from the 10th of March. Boots, socks, bike covers and more.

Spring is in the air so spring into Aldi. From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074

Both completed their CBT today. Mia on her own Varedero and Dave on our YBR. Mia rides Stallions so showed great natural balance. Dave is a professional Poker player and has nerves of steel! Both showing good skills throughout the day and remembering the importance of the mirror and lifesaver checks. They don’t call them lifesavers for nothing!

Well Done to them both. A great day. From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074

The start dates for the next four day Advanced Motorcycle Course are 20th & 21st of April. This is Four Days spread over a timescale to suit you and you get the opportunity to take the RoSPA Advanced Test at the end.

We have a 100% pass rate for candidates who take this course and then choose to take the test, many passes are up to the highest, Gold standard.

For full details go to www.1stclassriderblog.co.uk From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074

Which is a Monthly all about Motorcycles! The March issue is out now. Get your copy Free from us here at 1st Class Rider. Full of news and reviews, competitions and more. This month you can enter to win a Roadhawk Camera System and the new A2 Licence group is explained.

Get yours now. From: http://www.facebook.com/pages/p/195837770466074