In this article, which applies to both car drivers and motorcycle riders, I will discuss: Corner Force Slip Angles The Rolling Cone Effect Lateral Force Shear Stress in the Contact Patch Dynamic Stability for a motorcycle in a bend Negative and Positive Slip Forces Drifting It is hoped that both Observers and Associates obtain a better […]
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Feb
The test is the culmination of your training, it is your opportunity to show how good you are and justify your observer’s faith in you. A little bit of nerves can be a good thing. Stay focused and try to enjoy it. The perfect driver has not yet been discovered but how close are you? […]
Mobile communication and GPS is becoming more commonplace in cars, this hand-out offers advice for using this technology to complement your driving. It is not exhaustive but touches on the following areas: Satellite Navigation; Mobile Phones and the Internet. Click for more
This hand-out offers advice for driving during inclement weather. With each season comes a range of conditions all of which need to be managed safely. Click for more
Night driving presents unique challenges drivers, the limit of vision is dictated by the performance of your headlamps, your windscreen and your eyesight. This handout covers legislation and some practicalities regarding driving at night. Click for more
In-car technology which was once only fitted to luxury or high-end vehicles is now becoming more commonplace. This hand-out offers advice for using this technology to complement your driving. It is not exhaustive but touches on the following areas: auto gearboxes; ABS (Anti-lock Brakes); auto headlamps; cruise control; ESP (Electronic Stability Programming). Click for more
This handout describes how to conduct a pre-drive check, how to go through a systematic cockpit drill and then the start up procedure to be used prior to driving off. (CWCAM Pre-Drive Checks are featured in a separate Blog). Click for more
Does changing down on approach to a bend reduces the risk of understeer? A moving conventional vehicle experiences Engine Braking Force, which always opposes motion (I.E. it tries to slow the car!) On steering into a bend, the car begins to accelerate ‘Centripetally’, that is it accelerates towards the centre of the bend. (Centripetal literally […]
New diesel cars now face higher first-year taxes. This is the latest in a number blows from the authorities against the fuel in recent years, which have left many believing diesel is now running on fumes. With cities across Europe considering bans on older models, the UK Government proposing charging zones for ageing diesel cars […]
Breathalysers must be able to be fitted into all new cars from 2022 following a landmark decision by the European Council. The technology, that could prevent drink-drivers from starting their engines, was approved in March but has only just been rubber-stamped by European officials last week. The UK’s position is yet to be confirmed, but […]