SOLENT ADVANCED MOTORCYCLISTS

DOCUMENT NO: 021AG,   ISSUE NO. 06.   ISSUE DATE: 23.03.11

SAM ASSOCIATE CHARTER

Purpose 

This Charter sets out the basis of the relationship between Observers and Associates.

Observers

Observers give their time freely to Associates. They also invest considerable time, energy and personal expense in their personal training so that they can provide Associates with a “Skill for Life”.

Associates

In exchange for Observers’ time and commitment, a reciprocal commitment is required from Associates:

• Regular practice between Observed rides in order to put into practice what they have been shown and to apply `The System of Motorcycle Control`.
• A commitment to study the Highway Code, How to be a Better Motorcyclist, Know Your Signs and, preferably, Roadcraft, in-between observed rides.
• A voluntary contribution towards the Observer’s motorcycle running costs, as set down by the Group and varied from time to time. This is currently £10 for rides up to 40 miles and £15 for rides in excess of 40 miles.
• To keep in contact with their Observer at reasonable intervals to arrange subsequent rides.

1. The Observer allocated to an Associate will make contact to arrange the first observed ride.
2. When an Observer feels that an Associate is test-ready, he/she will recommend a Check Test with a Senior Observer to verify the Associate’s progress.
3. Any Associate who wishes a second opinion on their progress is welcome to come along to a SAM Sunday and request an observed ride with an Observer, other than their own.
4. Some riders achieve the necessary skills with 6 runs, while others require more. Every rider is different: If, after 10 runs, the Observer or Associate feel they are unable to make further progress, the Associate may be handed back to the Chief Observer for advice or re allocation to another Observer.
5. Associates are normally expected to pass the IAM Advanced Test within 2 years.
6. Associates are encouraged to ride in bad weather, as this is an essential skill for life. Cancellation of an observed run due to bad weather will be a joint decision by the Observer and the Associate.
7. If the Observer feels that insufficient progress is being achieved by an Associate over a three month period due to a lack of practice, lack of studying or the Associate not keeping in contact, the Associate will be "pooled" and await reallocation to another Observer.
8. In the event that an Associate feels that, for whatever reason, e.g. a clash of personality, difference in style etc. he/she is not making the progress with their Observer that they had hoped for, they should firstly talk this through with their Observer and agree a plan and, if this is not satisfactory, contact the Chief Observer to request reallocation to another Observer, at the Chief Observer's discretion.