IAM - Opinion from people who haven't done it

[Dabz]

I met the Chairman of the IAM this morning and mentioned WB, and specifically how IAM and advanced training in general is becoming more popular with bikers.

He asked what reason do those of us who haven't done IAM give for having not done it - price, dislike of tests, availability of groups etc and I said I'd ask you lot

so...if you haven't done IAM, why not?

My personal reason to kick start things is that I don't like the idea of a 45 min test where I'm given the route beforehand..my memory of routes is crap so I'd be concentrating more on where I'm going than how I'm riding for that 45 mins

[Splash]

I haven't done IAM or looked into it further because I am under the impression that ROSPA is better as they test you continually (3 yearly re-tests) unlike IAM where it's just one test and you're done? I may be wrong.

Also I believe ROSPA is the equivalent of the Level 3 Police Riding test and derives from their handbook?

That just makes me, if I do it, want to head for ROSPA against IAM on those factors alone.

[Swanny]

I've always wanted to take my IAM test in a car but haven't gotten around to it yet. Only been planning it for 31 years

Like Splash says if I was going to do it on a bike I'd go for ROSPA

[Snowy]

I don't have any particular reason why I haven't done it apart from laziness. Since I have Scottish blood in me I am keen to make a financial saving where I can but the discount on insurance which for an old foggy such as myself is minimal anyway is not a motivational factor.

I also can't plan ahead more than 7 days at a time so the thought of actually having to do that with a third party for an observed ride fills me with dread.

I would summise though that as with many other things I should have done by my age, I simply have not got round to doing it. I mean, I have only had 33 years to try it so there's still time to sit on the fence a while longer yet

Finally, I hate tests...with a vengance. If I can avoid doing one I will.

[Wes]

Time is the main factor, ive done a couple of bikesafe days and it definitely improved my riding technique. I would consider the IAM, but i always tend to think it would be a bit fierce.

[Swanny]

My main reason for doing it would be to ride the blood bikes and I think you need ROSPA for that.

[Splash]

My main reason for doing it would be to ride the blood bikes and I think you need ROSPA for that.

+1!

[Jacde]

I would like to do some form of advanced training, but I personally think my general lack of riding experience is putting me off going to either Bikesafe, IAM or ROSPA.
Daft I know as I'll most probably benefit hugely and have any bad habits that might be forming nipped in the bud!

[Mitch9128]

I can't be wearing hi-viz, but i do like having a holier than thou attitude.

[Dabz]

Great feedback so far, thanks guys and gals.