Initially, when you enrol for the Advanced Rider course you will join IAM RoadSmart and Northamptonshire Advanced Motorcyclists as an Associate Member – training towards advanced motorcycling certification.

NAM meets every Sunday and rides out to one of several regular destinations (approximately 80 mile round-trip). You can choose each week whether to join a social ride or have an observed (training) ride.

On an observed ride, you will be accompanied by one of our highly skilled Observers – usually one-to-one – who will analyse your riding and guide your development. About halfway through, they will pull you over to the roadside, outline how they feel your ride is progressing and explain what you will work on during the remainder of the ride. On reaching your destination, your Observer will sit you down (cuppa and bacon sandwich time) and give you a thorough debrief on the ride overall. They will give you an honest, balanced appraisal of your ride – highlighting what you have done well and areas for improvement – and will suggest a plan for further development.

Once we feel your skills – information processing, positioning, speed selection and control, correct use of gears, and acceleration – have reached advanced standard, we will recommend that you apply for your advanced test. On successful completion of your test, you will leave the realms of the Associate and become a full member of NAM/IAM RoadSmart.

So, what does it cost?
The IAM RoadSmart Advanced Rider Course package is a one-off payment of £175.00 and contains everything required to prepare for and pass the advanced riding test and become a full member of IAM RoadSmart. Included is 12 months membership of both IAM RoadSmart and NAM, the Advanced Rider Course Handbook, a copy of the Highway Code, all the training you need, and the advanced test fee.

• Please note: A contribution towards Observer costs is much appreciated and we currently suggest £10 per observed run *

…and how long does it take?
Obviously, it depends on your experience, ability, and level of commitment but typically we see riders attaining test standard after about 8 – 12 observed rides. The aim of the advanced training is to make you feel safer and more confident and, as such, we tailor our training programme to suit you…

How do I get involved?
To request a confirmed free taster session (a ‘look-see’) before committing to join, email associates@nammc.org.uk and include your contact details and a short summary of your riding experience. You can also just come down to The Obelisk Centre, 400 Obelisk Rise, Northampton NN2 8UE at 09:00 on any Sunday morning, with a roadworthy bike, a full tank of petrol and suitable biking gear. We will do our best to accommodate you but cannot guarantee a ride if you haven’t pre-booked.

Alternatively, if you’ve already decided that the Advanced Rider Course is for you, you can sign up online via the IAM Road Smart website.

What if I am already a Full Member of IAM RoadSmart?

If you have already qualified as an IAM RoadSmart Advanced Rider and just want to join NAM, please email sec@nammc.org.uk.