Meet the Examiner

In December, we welcomed Alex Hathaway back for our Members’ Evening. Alex tests more of our members than any of the examiners in our area and anyone who has taken the test with him will already know him as an extremely experienced and knowledgeable rider.  He also clearly thoroughly enjoys riding himself and understands why we all ride.

Alex had asked for questions in advance, so was very well prepared for his session.  All in all, it was another great session with some interesting perspectives both from him and members of the audience.  I’m sure that everyone took something different from the questions, but for me there were some key responses to questions we may have all pondered:

• You should never rely on the speed registered on your SatNav speed, as this is generated by GPS and is therefore always slightly out.  Your bike’s speed has been calibrated by the manufacturer and while you may feel that it reads under, it’s more accurate than any other measurement.

• Filtering is OK on a test.  However, you’re unlikely to fail if you don’t do it, but you will fail if you do it badly.

• Riders should show calm competence in their riding to pass.  If they are fully in control and taking in information, nothing should be hurried or miscalculated.

• Mirror checks should not just be a quick flick of the eyes to the mirror, but you should move your head to look for longer than a nano second.  Not only does this ensure you are actually looking and taking in information, but it also widens your view.

• Staggered crossroads, for example on the Fosse Way, are staggered for a reason, which is to make drivers stop and look before pulling out.  Straightlining is therefore not advised as it possibly means you’re in a hurry.

There were interesting answers to many other questions and of course, in every situation, the answer depends on the circumstances.