Wakefield MAG January 2012 Newsletter

Dear Wakefield MAG member,

I hope everyone had a brilliant Christmas and has a fantastic New Year. In addition to getting some Christmas pressies that you really wanted, hopefully you also got some that you gladly want to give away !!!! WHY ? ....... because the Wakefield MAG Post Christmas Auction is rapidly approaching (See below for details).

CONTENTS

1) Wakefield & District MAG 10th Annual General Meeting
2) Post Christmas Auction
3) 10th Birthday Party
4) Wakefield Hospice 10K Race Marshalling
5) 2012 Rally Dates
6) Manchester Motorcycle Show
7) Europe Developments
8) Bikes in London's Bus Lanes
9) MAG (UK) AGC
10) Forthcoming Events (for January and beyond)

1) Wakefield & District MAG 10th Annual General Meeting

Our 10th branch AGM will be held in the Grey Horse, on Wednesday 11th January, starting at the earlier time of 8:00pm (prompt). All members are invited to attend this special meeting, so please try to attend if you can. At this meeting there will be a review of the year, elections for the branch committee and the prize giving for our branch heroes. As this meeting is effectively a MAG political meeting, it carries with it a whopping 75 branch points for everyone who attends (a normal branch meeting only carries 5 points). As all the points are tallied at year end and go towards the branch heroes presentation, points really do mean prizes !!!! What better boost to your branch heroes tally for the new year !!!

The Annual Wakefield MAG mailshot was posted to all eligible Members, i.e. current or recently expired MAG members with a WF postcode, in early December to formally place notice for the meeting. Nearly 100 letters were posted. Additionally, our meeting regulars were hand delivered their copies, whilst others who don't actually reside in the Wakefield District were also emailed their mailshot letters. If you want an email copy of the mailshot letter, drop me an email and I'll send a copy onto you.

The previous AGM minutes are posted here and will be available at the AGM itself. Again, if you want your own copy, please let me know and I'll send one on.

The deadline for motions to be considered for the AGM is Wednesday 4th January 2012. All motions will need a proposer and seconder (who are members), and will be voted on at the AGM itself.

Hope to see you at the AGM, and don't forget your membership card to vote !!!

2) Post Christmas Auction

Our 8th Post Christmas Auction will be held on Wednesday 25th January 2012, at 20:00, at the Grey Horse, Kirkgate, and if previous years events are anything to go by, an event not to be missed.

The idea is that you bring along all your unwanted Christmas presents, together with other stuff you no longer want, or have the room for, donate them to the branch, and we auction them off to the highest bidder.

Proceeds from the auction will again be split with 2/3 to the MAG Fighting Fund and 1/3 to a charitable cause(s). The 2011 auction raised £340 for the MAG fighting fund, with £170 for charity. That was pretty staggering, especially as the bidding on a lot of items started at 50p. Of course, we want to beat that for 2012.

We know times are hard at the moment, but that's all the more reason to come down to the auction, grab a top bargain, and save yourselves considerable amounts of money. We already have had lots of stuff donated, including quality one piece leathers (a reserve price will apply to these due to their value), several helmets, computer printer, monitor, lots of unwanted Christmas presents, books, DVD's, camping gear and lots more (and we still have nearly another month to collect even more auction donations !!!!).

The Wakefield MAG auctions are always hugely entertaining and there are always some real quality items donated, and hence, some real bargains to be had.

Already, we have lots of people keen to attend. Be there early to guarantee a seat, with viewing from 07:00 onwards, and the auction itself starting at 08:00 prompt (and don't forget to bring your unwanted Christmas pressies !!!).

All welcome and I hope to see you there.

3) 10th Birthday Party

The 9th of January 2012 is Wakefield MAG's 10th Birthday !!!!! We have certainly come a long way since that inaugural meeting at the White Hart. We still have a good number of regular meeting attendees who were at those first fledgling meetings ten years ago (so we must be doing something right !!!).

To celebrate this most momentous occasion, we are having a 10th Birthday Party on Saturday 14th January, in the Grey Horse, Kirkgate, Wakefield. Come along and help us celebrate (Rock Disco, Karaoke (for those brave / drunk enough), Buffet (bring some nibbles to share !!!), Good Company and lashings of Ginger Beer !!!). 7:30pm onwards.

All Wakefield MAG members and friends most welcome. Hope to see you there !!!!

4) Wakefield Hospice 10K Race Marshalling

Following our successful marshalling efforts over a good many consecutive years, Wakefield Hospice have again asked if we will help marshal their 10K race, which is to be held on Sunday 15th April 2012. The Wakefield Hospice 10K is a big fixture in the running calendar, attracting seriously good runners, as well as being a major fund raiser for the Wakefield Hospice (the 2011 10K race raised around £30,000 and attracted well over a thousand runners).

Our role, is as mobile race marshals, looking after those competitors at the tail end of the race. The roads will only be closed for an hour maximum, and although the bulk of runners will be finished whilst the road is still closed, a good number of runners (walkers !!!) will still be on the course, hence the requirement for mobile marshals (that's us !!) to ensure their safety, once the road is re-opened to traffic.

It is great to be able to support our local charity in a non-monetary way, and in a way which is so very useful to them.

We will be asking for volunteer marshals in the next month or so, so if you would like to help, do let me know.

5) 2012 Rally Dates

As some of you will need to book holiday, or whatever it is you need to do to make time for the best bike only rallies in the UK, here are the dates of the main Yorkshire MAG events for 2012:

The great news for all, particularly in these times of austerity, is that the rally ticket prices for 2012 are fixed at last years levels !!!!! In fact, the last MAP rally ticket price increase was way back in 2007.

Ticket prices for the 2012 Yorkshire MAG rallies are thus:

These ticket prices represent absolutely astounding value for money !!!

We will be getting our branch ticket allocation for sale at our meetings within the next few weeks. Starting this year, sale or return tickets will be on offer to MAG branches nationally, not just those in Yorkshire. This means that the Yorkshire Pudding Rally WILL sell out even quicker than in other years. We say it every year, but, if you want tickets to this most excellent rally, get them sooner rather than later as they WILL sell out much quicker this year.

We'll let you know when we get our tickets, and in the meantime, give me a shout if you want some reserving (at last years prices !!!).

6) Manchester Motorcycle Show

Wakefield MAG are having a trip to the 2012 Manchester Motorcycle Show on Saturday 14th January. The show is being held at the Manchester Central Exhibition Centre, Petersfield , Manchester, M2 3GX. Eight major manufacturers will be at the show, displaying their latest bikes including Honda, Ducati, Triumph, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Victory, Suzuki, Harley Davidson and MV Agusta. In addition to all the major manufacturers, is a line up of well known riders as well as an extensive retail village (incl. The NW MAG stand), stunt show and static bike show. Tickets are £10 in advance (+ £1 transaction fee, per order, not per ticket) or £15 on the day. Advanced ticket sale closes at 12pm on Thursday 12th January.

More details at: http://manchestermotorcycleshow.co.uk/

We are planning to go by train, so if you fancy going, meet us at Dewsbury railway station for the 09:06 train to Manchester Piccadilly, arriving at 09:49. At Piccadilly we will take the Metrolink (in the Altrincham or Eccles direction) and alight at St Peter's Square, which is within a 5-minute walk of Manchester Central.

Return trains are every half hour, so no problems getting back for our 10th Birthday Party that evening !!!!

7) Europe Developments

The European Parliament's Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) voted in Brussels on 5th December on its report on the proposed regulation and on a raft of tabled amendments. About 35 IMCO members voted around 100 times on compromises, single amendments and blocs of amendments. We still haven't got the breakdown of the voting, to see which amendments were accepted, but in the meantime, here are some of the key developments:

In the view of IMCO, as from 2016 motorcycles will have to become cleaner and manufacturers must fit ABS, even for light motorcycles. As from 2014, measures to prevent power-train modifications (which are still to be developed) must be applied and users shall present their bikes for inspection when carrying out 'substantial' modifications. The text is a little ambiguous, so for the UK there may be little change from the current MoT for certain changes.

The December vote can be seen as a reference and recommendation for the final vote of the European Parliament, which is expected to be held in early 2012 (probably March). We hope it is put back a little further, so that there is more time to organise a Euro wide demo. As soon as there is more information, we'll let you know.

Before the vote was carried, IMCO chairman Malcolm Harbour made reference to an impact assessment which started on November 23rd, dealing with time-lines, emission limits, ABS and anti-tampering measures, and whose outcome is expected to influence Parliament's final vote. This is why we still need to talk to all our MEPs as the process is changing all the time and those research results aren't in yet.

Remember that the challenge to the Commission about the way the proposal was drafted in the first place, is still to be answered, which is yet another angle of attack we are pursuing through the Ombudsman's office.

With regard to power-train modifications [Article 18] IMCO adopted a compromise in line with the European Commission's logic and propounded by Wim van de Camp's office, with 'delegated acts' laying down measures for manufacturers to prevent subsequent modifications by the user that may have adverse effects on safety or the environment.

Additionally IMCO added a new article 18a which requires that users seek inspection and approval 'by the competent authorities' in case of substantial power-train modifications. It may well be that the 'competent authority' in the UK will mean the MoT. A modification is deemed to be substantial when it renders the original type approval obsolete, or, when it harms safety or the environment. Interesting terminology and until we see what 'delegated acts' include, it is hard to comment.

Aline Delhaye, General Secretary of FEMA says: “This regulation contains many good parts FEMA is in line with, like durability requirements and improved access to repair and maintenance information for the user. But if the current text of article 18 is finally adopted, it will mean that all the usual changes motorcyclists make for riding comfort, fuel efficiency, or simply to suit their riding style, will be illegal or will have to be checked and approved. This has not been a problem so far and there is no reason why it should become a problem tomorrow. FEMA will certainly keep on working on this regulation.”

It is incredibly disappointing that the vote still went ahead in spite of the fact that there is an Impact Assessment ongoing, having only commenced on 23rd November, into certain aspects of the proposed regulation. However, we expect nothing less of the EU !!!

The fight is on-going however and we will update you with what you can do to oppose this, as soon as MAG Central and/or FEMA develop the full plan of attack ..... Watch this space !! In the meantime, do write a nice letter to your MEP expressing your concern at the total waste of time, money and resource being poured into a solution to a problem which doesn't exist !!!

8) Bikes in London's Bus Lanes

The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG (UK) is delighted that Motorcycles and Scooters (PTWs) will now be allowed to use most bus lanes throughout London's strategic 'Red Route' road network that is run by Transport for London (TfL).

“The decision to make Powered Two Wheeler access to most of TfL's bus lanes a permanent measure is a triumph of evidence-led policy development”, says Dr Leon Mannings, MAG's Transport Policy Advisor, who has been closely involved with developments in TfL trials of the Motorbikes in Bus Lanes concept since 2004.

What is especially significant about the decision is that it reflects recognition of both the safety and environmental advantages of enabling PTWs to access bus lanes.

MAG is also pleased to see that this decision by TfL is a big step forwards in increasing recognition of the vital role that motorcycle and scooter use can play in cutting many congestion related problems, and that allowing bikes into bus lanes delivers net safety benefits for vulnerable road users on both motorised and pedal-propelled machines.

After nearly eight years of investigation into safety concerns about motorbikes in bus lanes, TfL and the Mayor have rightly concluded that it makes great sense for all concerned with road safety while enhancing the efficiency of urban road use.

Dr Mannings adds, “Transport for London and the Mayor deserve great praise and respect for the diligence and depth of TfL's investigations into the pros and cons of allowing scooter and motorcycle riders to use bus lanes, alongside other single-track vehicle users on pedal bikes.”

A Jolly Good Result !!!

9) MAG (UK) AGC

The MAG (UK) Annual General Conference will be held on Saturday 14th April, and will be hosted by Wycombe MAG in the Thames Valley Region. For those who want to make a full weekend of it, the 'event' starts from midday on Friday where campers can set up their tents (for free) at Chiltern Park Aerodrome. In the evening there will be live bands performing in the Hanger with a bar, hot food and stalls available. On Saturday the Conference will be open for all MAG members to attend and a free lunch will be provided. It's a chance to meet and debate with the people who run our organization, from the Board of Directors to the National Committee members. On Saturday evening, an invitation to unwind after a day of debate as Wycombe MAG bring you their unmissable, one night biker party 'The Dirty Donkey'. £5 entry and the proceeds from the weekend will be split between the MAG fighting fund and the Thames Valley & Chiltern Air Ambulance charity.

Location: Chiltern Park Aerodrome. Ipsden. Wallingford. OX10 6AS

10) Forthcoming Events (for January and beyond)

Wednesday 4th January - 1st branch meeting of 2012 !!!

The 1st branch meeting of 2012 and also the deadline for motions to be considered for our AGM the following week.

Wednesday 11th January - Wakefield MAG Annual General Meeting

As Detailed Above. 7:30pm for a prompt 8:00pm start at the Grey Horse, Kirkgate, Wakefield

Saturday 14th January - Manchester Motorcycle Show

As Detailed Above.

Saturday 14th January - Wakefield MAG 10th Birthday Party

As Detailed Above. Come along and celebrate this most momentous occasion !!!

Sunday 22nd January - MAP Meeting

The next MAP meeting will be held at the Breighton Ferry Pub, Breighton, Nr Selby, North Yorks, YO86DH, starting at 13:00 prompt. Magic Action Promotions (MAP), is the events arm of Yorkshire MAG, which hosts the ITV, FYP & YPR bike rallies, which contribute so enormously to the MAG fighting fund. Every MAG member is more than welcome to attend the meeting and see how the MAP events are run, its more the merrier and MAP welcome you taking more of an interest or active role. 13:00 start at Breighton Ferry, Nr Selby.

Wednesday 25th January - Wakefield MAG 8th Post Christmas Auction

As Detailed Above

February 2011 - Leeds MAG Fred Hill Memorial Run

At this stage, it is not known whether there will be a Leeds MAG organised Fred Hill Run in February. Although traditionally, Fred Hill memorial runs are held in February, to commemorate Fred's untimely death in Pentonville Prison (on 10th February 1984), the runs are very subject to the weather, and in the last 2 years the runs had to be cancelled at the last minute due to ice and snow.

Watch this space for further updates on the February Fred Hill Run. There is always the option to potentially hold the Fred Hill memorial run in early June (as we did in 2011), to coincide with the anniversary of the Helmet law being passed (on 1st June 1973), when at least the risk of ice and snow will have passed.

That's all for this month, hope 2012 turns out to be a great biking year, and I hope to see you all soon.

Ride Safe
Steve Travis
Chairman
Wakefield MAG
0772 078 4734

Wakefield MAG meet at the Grey Horse, Kirkgate, Wakefield at 8:30pm every Wednesday. New (and Old) faces are always welcome.