DORSET MOTORCYCLE ENTHUSIASTS CLUB NEWS PAGE
The views and comments contained within this site are not necessarily the views of
the D.M.E.C. its Committee or its members and publication does not imply endorsement by any of these parties
MAY 2005
www.dmec.cjb.net
New Members
Please all welcome Jack Redman to the club. Jack hopes to be able to attend a
meeting shortly.
Rumours are still rife that the oldest member (well he has been caught claiming
as much) will be returning to the club. Still, maybe this was just a figment of my
imagination.
ENTHUSIASTS HEADLINES
Off to Dunster
Arriving at the Little Chef at 1015, I was asked where we were going. I asked if
anyone had any ideas. Dunster was mentioned so off we went at 1030. I thought
it was a good run but the oldest member of the club who is NOT a member had
to moan about the mirror system. He likes his drop-off system, however the one
time we used the drop-off system on this trip HE rode straight by and
disappeared for 20 minutes along with 4 other bikes!. Honda won the turn out two
Pans two Birds one CBR600 Triumph came second, should be used to that! For
once Pete at the back was near the front. This way up may need a new mirror for
his pan (sorry had to mention). The run was fun and we stopped at the top of
town for tea at five and then made our own way home. If you did not come, you
missed a good trip (well most of us think so) if you have any ideas for next month
then please say or even lead the trip.
Anonymous
ENTHUSIASTS 'CUNNING PLANS'
For Sunday 5th June 2005 the club run is currently planned to find Arundel
Castle. Route proposed is A31, M27, and A27 to arrive at the Castle. Following
a
rest stop return will be via Petworth A272, Romsey A3090 then the option of
M27, A31 or the A35 to Christchurch.
Spellchecker
Beaulieu Motorcycle World is 18th to 19th June this year. I understand that Bob
Gray, Len Sands and Colin Sheppard are plotting to ensure a Club Stand is run
at the event.
Please discuss any support you can offer with one of the above!
Calstock Bike Show and Regatta is 15th - 16th - 17th July
Week End Tickets £15 and includes entry to all Bands / Camping
This event was supported by club members last year.
Ace bob and Jeff have been rumoured to be considering a club run to this event?
GROUP RIDING WITH THE DMEC
As promised here is the Clubs group riding rules.
I’m sure the debate will always be present between the Mirror and Drop Off
systems so just make sure you have the run leaders explanation before the off!
I’m also just as sure that both work only as well as the group sticks to the rules!
(Wish my mirrors worked beyond my elbows on the Rs)
DMEC Riding Rules (Mirror System)
The objective of a Marshalled group run is to get a group of motorcycles and their
riders from point A to point B, safely, in a in a smooth and efficient manner. It is
to the benefit of all participants to be honest in the assessment of their own
capabilities, they should not under any circumstances feel pressurised to
“compete” with more experienced riders.
The people forming the group fall into four categories these are itemised together
with a summary of their respective roles within the group.
1.The Run Leader,
2.Newcomers/Beginners/Slower Machines,
3.Marshals,
4.Back Marker
1. The Run Leader
The Run Leader, leads the run. Before setting off it is the Run Leaders
responsibility to; -
1a. Elect and identify to the rest of the group, a Back Marker. This is someone
who will ride at the back of the group for the duration of the run.
1b. Identify any people in the group who are new to group riding, not
experienced or confident with marshalling junctions, ride a machine that is not
with ease, capable of cruising at the national speed limit. These people will
also be identified to the rest of the group.
1c. When on the move the Run Leader will ride at a speed that allows the
slowest bikes and newcomers to keep up. Where there are no slow bikes or
newcomers the Run Leader will make sure that there are at least four bikes
from the group who are close enough to become effective Marshals should
the need arise.
1d. The run is not a race, it is for every ones enjoyment. The Run Leader will
not exceed the speed limits. If necessary the Run Leader will ride at a slower
pace. Remember that a rider at the rear of the group will have to ride
faster than those at the front, just to keep up. If the Run Leader should
find that he/she has lost the group he/she should stop and return to the last
junction.
2. Newcomers/Beginners/Slower Machines
It is not expected that anyone falling within this category will Marshal junctions
until they are comfortable with the role. Therefore they will ride directly behind
the Run Leader, and maintain their position for the duration of the run.
3. Marshals
Marshals are considered to be anyone who is confident and comfortable with
identifying to the rest of the group, the direction taken by the Run Leader.
3a. A Marshal will stop at the near side kerb of the road, where he/she can be
clearly seen, and point the direction from any junction exit taken by the run
leader, be it on a roundabout, crossroad or T-junction. In doing this you must
not place yourself in any danger.
3b. The Marshal will wait at the junction until the Back Marker goes by. The
Marshal should then safely move out in to the road and when safe, overtake
the Back Marker taking up position at the back of the group of the riders who
are marshalling in turn. If the back marker takes a while to appear, remain at
your post. He/she will appear.
4. The Back Marker
The Back Marker will remain at the back of the group for the duration of the
run.
4a. The Back Marker will report to the Run Leader (usually during a break) if
he/she feels that the run pace needs adjusting.
4b. The Back Marker will ensure that the group does not lose any member
and that all Marshals are “collected up” as the run progresses.
Preparation
Please arrive in good time for the start of the run.
Please ensure that your machine is fuelled up and that the machine is set up for
the run.
Common Sense
If you ride with your lights on make sure the switch is set to the dip position.
If you leave the group because you do not wish to continue the run, then tell the
Back Marker before going.
Some junctions can be quite complex and may need more than one Marshal, if
there is any ambiguity about the exit, Marshal it. No one will complain if you do.
A note to the Run Leader
As this document states, the run is not a race, neither is it an endurance test.
Make as many stops along the way as you see fit, after all, it is your run. I am
sure that all taking part will appreciate your considerations towards them. For
best attendance, advertise your run in the newsletter, stating departure and
estimated return time, and approximate mileage.
Club Members Training
Whilst it is not compulsory, the club recommends that members consider
partaking in further training in motorcycle competency.
Road Traffic Incident
In the event of a road traffic accident and/or fire, it is the individual’s responsibility
to contact the relevant emergency service.
Rev. A. February 2003.
MARCH 2005
New Members
Please welcome John and Lyn Head to the club. The RAC routeplanner has
calculated that John and Lyn live 11.2 miles from the Sandford.
ENTHUSIASTS HEADLINES
The cheque for £1518 plus other belated funds and a generously filled collection
tub from the pub was presented to a representative of the Dorset and Somerset
Air Ambulance during the Meeting on Monday 21st February by Ken.
Both Ken and Bob would again like to thank the clubs supporters from local
motorbike businesess who support the raffle.
The 6th of March mothers day run was lead by Dave the Crane.
It gives me great pleasure note the following manufacturers scores
Triumph .........5
Honda ........2
Yamaha.........1
BMW..............1
Dave's Honda also needed a push!...photos on the photo page !!!!
With two trumpets two up, Dave was also on best behavour.
The cold (but sunny) weather did its best to freeze spirits, with the group reduced
to seven by Exmouth.
After a spot of lunch with one lunch going missing, seagulls or John? and an ice
cream stroll along the seafront, six returned to tea at Dorcester.
Len has asked me to include details of this letter from the Chief Marshall of
National rally
National Rally - Wimbourne Control
"The National Rally has a policy which moves the Final Control, normally every
two years, so that the Rally itself takes on a different formation. This gives the
riders (and the control teams) more variety and ensures that the event does not
become stale. The final control this year has been moved southwards and will be
at Rugby and as you will appreciate this alters the need for some controls and
includes a requirement for some new ones.
Due to the above we have moved out of some areas and into other ones,
Unfortunately, this means for this year at least we will not require a Wimborne
control".
With Lens details now held on file, the letter ends "Your help in the past has
been very much appreciated. Without the benefit of people like your team it
would not be possible to stage the Rally at all"
ENTHUSIASTS 'CUNNING PLANS'
For Sunday 3rd April 2005 the club run will join Fat Armadillo's Charity
Motorcycle ride.
The ride meets @ 10:00am Pavillion Car Park, Weymouth Seafront for a 10:30
departure.
The ride will be through the Dorset and Somerset countryside and about 70 miles
returning to Weymouth and re-assembling at the Jubilee Clock, Weymouth
Esplanade.
A £5.00 donation per bike is expected with all proceeds to the Dorset Search and
Rescue (DORSAR).
Suggest anyone wishing to join could also meet up prior at the usual Little Chef
@ 8:45am for a 9:00am departure to Weymouth, someone will hopefully bring a
map!
JAN 2005
Hi All
Happy new year just to let you all know that the D.M.E.C. have now moved we are now meeting at
The Sandford pub which is at Sandford on the A351 between the Bakers Arms roundabout and Wareham
our next club night is on Monday 21st FEB when We will be handing over the cheque from the Mistletoe Run
to the Air Ambulance at about 9pm so why not come down and see us at our new venue????
We have lots of other things going on and are starting to plan this years trips away for more info see our website
If you are up for going to a Bike Rally some of us are off to one in April so why not join us details are here
22 - 24th April 2005 Ridgeway MCC's 10th George to the Dragon Rally at a site near Oxford Prebook only 10.00UKpounds,
limit 200 badge included in ticket price Level site with indoor facilities, including disabled provision.
Catering by 'Munchies' Cars/vans for disabled only, by prior arrangement cheques/POs made payable to: Ridgeway MCC,
33 Shepherds Close, Hurley, Maidenhead, Berks., SL6 5LY 07900 858884 dangerram@yahoo.co.uk
www.ridgewaymcc.org.uk
for more info talk to Bob Thorpe
January 2005
By Steve Hawkins
Happy New Year to all our readers.
I have accepted the challange of Editor for this month having
attempted to write a letter over Christmas and only succeeding
in posting to eighteen (18) lucky members reminding then that Membership
is now due. So I am sorry for repeating myself to those lucky eighteen,
but subscriptions are due for renewal in January.
Membership costs have been frozen at:-
£8 for Single Membership
£10 for Family Membership
New Members
Please all welcome Paul Brown to the club, Paul currently owns a
Bantem 125, Yamaha 650, Kawasaki 650, Yamaha FZR600 and a Yamaha TT350.
I hope we will see Paul shortly at a Pub meeting or run out.
ENTHUSIASTS HEADLINES
The Mistletoe run raisied xxx for the Dorset and Somerset
Air Amburlance. Bob (Ace) sends his thanks to all supporters
of this event. The event was supported by over 150 bikes and the weather.
The 2nd of January run was lead by Dave the Crane, ten bikes
in all I think, the four Honda's won the most numerous bike game.
The sun was low and bright, salt lay over the roads but the only complaint
voiced was at Fort Nelson when the Power Keg Cafe refused to provide Chips
before 12:00 am.
Pete (I am at the Back) was bitter over this and refused to give anyone a bite of his chip butty
at a tea drinking session held later at Avon Forest Park.
ENTHUSIASTS 'CUNNING PLANS'
Rumour is spreading that the Febuary Sunday run will be to the Fleet Air Arm musuem at Yeovil.
A source close to the 'the Crane' has also leaked that Pete (I am at the back) will take the lead when
the group is on the A303, just before Yeovil.
NEXT CLUB NIGHT IS MONDAY 17th January 2005 at 'The Sandford' Public house
DMEC Committee
Chairman ------- Ken Briggs
Secretary ------- Colin Clark
Treasurer ------- Steve Dangerfield
Membership Secretary ---- Steve Hawkins
Floor Memeber and Raffle Specialist---- Bob Gray
Floor Member ------ Pete Munden
Floor Member ------ Phil Luke
Bob (Ace) has agreed to continue with his valued support of the Club by contiuing as Web Master,
managing the Clubs Web Site.
Please do give the floor members all your grumps, It is their role in life as part of the Commitee.
If you have any articles, tips or advice you feel the need to share then please email Steve
at
stephen.hawkins21@ntlworld.com