Passed IAM today!
Discussion
MC Bodge said:
In what way were you pushed beyond your ability? I'd have thought that making excessive progress (beyond the limits of observation) would be more of a problem.
I don't think we were going beyond the limits of observation - there were good cross views - but a little quicker than I'd have the confidence to drive on my own.MC Bodge said:
Making an effort to consistently come off the brakes more smoothly and progressively made a big difference to the smoothness of my riding and driving.
Coming off brakes smoothly is something I thought I'd made automatic, but as the pace came up cracks appeared, as is normally the case.MC Bodge said:
Synchromesh said:
Passed motorbike theory today.
I should hope so too!Motorbiking improved my driving significantly.
Just had my driving license taken away...so that the DVLA can add the motorcycle category to it!
It's been a bit of an ordeal though. I had postpone my original booking after hospitalising myself and being told not to drive for two weeks, during which time my course was originally scheduled. I later took a few days training, then went for my Mod 1, which I failed. This was purely due to, "being too wobbly" on the U-turn. Although I'd agree it wasn't the smoothest turn, I still made it without resorting to putting a foot down so it seemed a little harsh and more like a minor fault, but that's the Mod 1 test for you! I would however, be the first to admit that my low speed bike handling is my weakest area. So I booked a retest, which was then cancelled when we arrived at the test centre, as the examiners had gone on strike. So I booked another retest which was cancelled due to "risk of ice", despite the fact the centre were still running car tests and even bike Mod 2 tests on that day. I was then back in Bristol for a few days over Christmas so booked my own Mod 1 there, and hired a 125 for the day to do it on, and this time I passed. Then today I took the Mod 2 passed (my first attempt). A few minors though; one for leaving an indicator on for a little longer than necessary, and a few for positioning - apparently I went a bit wide on left turns and my general positioning wasn't perfect. Surprised with the latter as I was was aiming to position for view, safety and stability as in a car but perhaps I was too 'extreme' in this on the rural sections.
Now I've passed, due to my age I'll be restricted to a 33bhp machine for 2 years, after which my license will automatically be 'upgraded' to allow me to ride any bike. I don't think I'll be getting a bike straight away though - riding in wet weather is just miserable (cue abuse for not being a 'hardcore' biker) - but if funds permit I'll think about one in the summer. The main motivation for doing it now was to get it done before the 19th Jan, after which I'd have had to retake my tests after two years to get an unrestricted license - a bit of a faff.
One other thing; I thought I'd enjoy the 'rustic charm' and almost agricultural simplicity of a 125cc machine. In reality they're plain soulless, absent of any joy or sense of fun. Perhaps it was just that I was on a knackered one with a slipping clutch, but not having the oomph to top 60mph was frustrating to say the least.
It's been a bit of an ordeal though. I had postpone my original booking after hospitalising myself and being told not to drive for two weeks, during which time my course was originally scheduled. I later took a few days training, then went for my Mod 1, which I failed. This was purely due to, "being too wobbly" on the U-turn. Although I'd agree it wasn't the smoothest turn, I still made it without resorting to putting a foot down so it seemed a little harsh and more like a minor fault, but that's the Mod 1 test for you! I would however, be the first to admit that my low speed bike handling is my weakest area. So I booked a retest, which was then cancelled when we arrived at the test centre, as the examiners had gone on strike. So I booked another retest which was cancelled due to "risk of ice", despite the fact the centre were still running car tests and even bike Mod 2 tests on that day. I was then back in Bristol for a few days over Christmas so booked my own Mod 1 there, and hired a 125 for the day to do it on, and this time I passed. Then today I took the Mod 2 passed (my first attempt). A few minors though; one for leaving an indicator on for a little longer than necessary, and a few for positioning - apparently I went a bit wide on left turns and my general positioning wasn't perfect. Surprised with the latter as I was was aiming to position for view, safety and stability as in a car but perhaps I was too 'extreme' in this on the rural sections.
Now I've passed, due to my age I'll be restricted to a 33bhp machine for 2 years, after which my license will automatically be 'upgraded' to allow me to ride any bike. I don't think I'll be getting a bike straight away though - riding in wet weather is just miserable (cue abuse for not being a 'hardcore' biker) - but if funds permit I'll think about one in the summer. The main motivation for doing it now was to get it done before the 19th Jan, after which I'd have had to retake my tests after two years to get an unrestricted license - a bit of a faff.
One other thing; I thought I'd enjoy the 'rustic charm' and almost agricultural simplicity of a 125cc machine. In reality they're plain soulless, absent of any joy or sense of fun. Perhaps it was just that I was on a knackered one with a slipping clutch, but not having the oomph to top 60mph was frustrating to say the least.
MagicalTrevor said:
HGV or Bus next? 
I was think along the lines of a Tank license...;)carinaman said:
Impressive, I took two attempts at part 1 on a two stroke in midwinter. It was when the examiner was on the kerb for part 2.
So being an advanced car driver you're on top of mirror use and life savers?
Have a great 2013 and stay safe.
Thanks. I think my obs were ok.So being an advanced car driver you're on top of mirror use and life savers?
Have a great 2013 and stay safe.
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