Saturday 4th July saw 18 PECAM members, visitors from neighbouring IAM groups and a few prospective new members descend on our regular first Saturday of the month slow speed and Gymkhana session at our Westpoint training facility in Peterborough.
It’s easy to think advanced riding is all about sweeping bends and brisk progress, but some of the most valuable skills are learnt at little more than walking pace. Car parks, U-turns, filtering, awkward junctions and tight manoeuvres all demand smooth control and confidence. That’s exactly what our slow speed sessions are designed to develop.
Throughout the morning riders tackled a range of exercises including slaloms, circles, figure eights and ever-tightening turns. With plenty of coaching, encouragement (and the occasional wobble!), everyone worked on refining clutch control, throttle balance, rear brake use and, most importantly, keeping their eyes up and looking where they wanted to go. The transformation in confidence over just a couple of hours was clear to see.
Then it was time to raise the fun factor with Motorcycle Gymkhana. Originating in Japan, Gymkhana combines precision, balance and quick thinking as riders weave through cone courses that become increasingly challenging. Don’t let the stopwatch fool you though – this isn’t about speed. It’s about smoothness, accuracy and machine control. The faster times simply come naturally as the techniques improve.
Whether you’re an Associate preparing for your Advanced Rider assessment or an experienced member wanting to sharpen your skills, these sessions offer a safe, friendly environment to practise techniques that pay dividends every time you head out on the road.
The accompanying video features Bob A on PECAM’s permanently loaned Honda CB650, David L on our permanently loaned Suzuki Bandit 600, and guest rider Mark B on his Yamaha MT-07 putting the cones through their paces. Looking good, gentlemen!
Hopefully we’ll see even more riders next month. If you’ve never had a go at slow speed or Gymkhana before, come along—you might be surprised just how addictive it becomes!