East Kent Advanced Motorcyclists
The East Kent Advanced Motorcyclists (EKAM) is a UK-based nonprofit organisation and registered charity (No. 1055176) dedicated to promoting advanced motorcycle riding standards and road safety. Affiliated with IAM RoadSmart (Group No. 2206), EKAM provides training programs to help motorcyclists achieve the Institute of Advanced Motorists’ advanced riding certification[^1^][^3^].

History

EKAM originated as part of the Kent Advanced Motorcyclists Group (KAMG), established in 1979/1980 to improve riding standards and machine control under IAM guidelines. By 1988, an East Kent section was formed to serve riders in that region, and it became independent as EKAM in March 1992[^4^]. The organisation attained charitable status in May 1996, with its mission focusing on public benefit through enhanced road safety and rider education[^4^].

Activities

EKAM offers free riding assessments conducted by IAM-qualified observers, followed by structured training to prepare candidates for the IAM RoadSmart Advanced Rider Course[^1^]. The organisation also provides subsidised training for riders under 30, targeting a demographic statistically at higher risk of accidents[^1^].

As a charity, EKAM reinvests resources into promoting advanced riding techniques, observer training, and community outreach. It operates under the IAM RoadSmart framework, emphasising collision avoidance and hazard perception[^3^][^5^].

Structure

The club recruits and trains volunteer observers to mentor associates through the advanced riding syllabus. Members participate in regular social rides, skill workshops, and annual events, fostering a community-focused approach to rider development[^4^][^5^].

Recognition

EKAM maintains an annual cycle for advanced test certifications, celebrating members who achieve first-time passes, such as Paul Arnold and Jack Winslade in early 2025[^1^].

[^1^]: Free assessments, under-30 subsidies, and recent test passes.
[^3^]: Training aligned with IAM RoadSmart standards.
[^4^]: Historical origins and charitable mission.
[^5^]: Community and skill-building activities.

[1] https://www.ekam.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/1055176/full-print [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regId=1055176&subId=0 [4] https://www.ekam.org.uk/index.php/the-club/a-brief-history [5] https://www.myrouteapp.com/en/social/group/534