Category: Other

1. Ben launches suicide prevention campaign with new online support and training

   Posted on 12:00pm Tuesday 12th Sep 2023

   Ben, the automotive industry charity, has today launched a month-long campaign around suicide prevention, to raise awareness about this difficult topic and highlight that Ben is there for those struggling. As part of the campaign, new support and resources are now available on Ben’s website, as well as new online training.

   The charity has created a new section of its website dedicated to suicide prevention with information, advice and guidance for individuals at risk of suicide, for those worried about someone and also for employers.

   NEW suicide prevention support available at: www.ben.org.uk/suicideprevention  

   • Content and resources on the topic of suicide prevention
   • Downloadable resources and leaflets for individuals and employers
   • Contact details so people know where to turn to for further support
   • Information about relevant training and services for employers to support their employees
   • New real life story about Tracey, who lost her husband to suicide.

   According to ONS, in 2021, there were 6,567 deaths by suicide registered in the UK, with males aged between 45-49 as having the highest suicide rate in England and Wales1. A total of 126 people die by suicide in the UK every week, with around 74% of those being male2. 

   The automotive industry is male dominated (80% male, versus 20% female3) so there is potentially a greater risk and vulnerability to suicide than in other industries. Men often feel under pressure to not show signs of weakness and feel embarrassed to talk about their issues, so are less likely to seek help when struggling with their mental health. Sometimes, pride is a factor and men may think they can handle their problems on their own, or they worry about being a burden to others. Men are also more likely to respond to stress with risky behaviour such as abusing alcohol which increases the risk of suicide by up to eight times.

   Sadly, Ben has seen an increase in calls to its helpline for support around suicide over recent years. In 2022, Ben supported 303 individuals who disclosed they were experiencing suicidal ideation or intent. Around 7 employers each year call on the charity’s Urgent Response Service after an employee has taken their own life. 

   Employers have a role to play in reducing the stigma around male mental health and to provide relevant support to prevent suicide. From findings in Ben’s survey report 2023, 1 in 3 automotive workers reported having had issues managing their mental health, compared with 1 in 6 of the general UK working population.

   Relevant training and services
   In addition to providing support for individuals, Ben also works with automotive industry employers to provide the following training and services: 

   • NEW online Suicide Awareness and Prevention training
   • Suicide First Aid through Understanding Suicide Intervention (SFAUSI) course
   • Mental Health First Aid course which qualifies participants as Mental Health First Aiders
   • Managing Mental Health in the Workplace training 
   • Urgent response service which offers support for employers with critical incidents that affect employees, including support for suicide.

   Here is a recent testimonial about Ben’s new Suicide Awareness and Prevention training:
   
   “The suicide awareness course from Ben was a great source of knowledge on a sensitive subject for both those with no experience of dealing with these issues to those with prior training. It gave practical advice of the tools and support that can be utilised in these difficult situations.” - Nicola Fairley, Arnold Clark

   For more information on Ben’s training and services, email [email protected].  

   Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben, said: “Research and statistics should give us cause for concern in our industry, coupled with the fact we currently have more people than ever requesting support. This is why it’s crucial to raise awareness about loss of life through suicide, as it’s a difficult topic to broach. We want everyone in our industry to know that Ben is there for them and urge people to get in touch for support if they’re struggling or in crisis.

   “If you work, or have worked, in the automotive industry please get in touch now if you don't feel you can cope or if you’re at breaking point. You can contact our free and confidential helpline.”

   Ben is here for those who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry and their family dependents. Don't struggle alone, contact our helpline: 08081 311 333 or use our webchat at www.ben.org.uk. You can also access Ben’s out of hours text support line by texting BEN to 85258. 

    

   

2. H&H Classics auction Hurricane X-75 Prototype to National Motorcycle Museum

   Posted on 12:00pm Tuesday 29th Aug 2023

   • H&H Classics brokers the sale of the Hurricane X-75 'works prototype'.
   • Verified by the BSA Club as the authentic works’ prototype and sold to the National Motorcycle Museum for £27,000.
   • This historical motorcycle, once a long-time passion project for John Simmonds, now takes its rightful place among other significant vehicles in the museum.

   H&H Classics most recent classic motorcycle auction has resulted in the legendary Hurricane X-75 'works prototype' finding a new prestigious home at the National Motorcycle Museum. After being offered for sale at the iconic venue, the bike, which was sold by H&H Classics for a fantastic £27,000, is now being showcased as a key highlight of the museum’s exhibit.

   James Hewing, museum director at the National Motorcycle Museum, said, “In our quest to source the best vehicles for our collection, it's important that we partner with an auction house that consistently offers high-quality lots and impeccable service. H&H Classics has an enviable and longstanding reputation in the industry, and our recent acquisition of the Hurricane X-75 through them is a testament to that. The dedication and expertise of their team is unparalleled."

   This specific 1971 model stands apart as the only road worthy ‘BSA Vetter Rocket 3’. The BSA Owners’ Club Dating Certificate backs its authenticity, with evidence suggesting only two prototypes were ever handcrafted. A handwritten note by Mr A. G. Cave, the BSA Works Manager at Small Heath, and a feature in Classic Bike magazine, further corroborate its storied past and the dedicated endeavour of John Simmonds in preserving this piece of British motorcycling history.

   The iconic machine utilising a 750cc engine, is a product of Craig Vetter's visionary design. It is verified by the BSA Club as the genuine works’ prototype. The bike, under the dedicated stewardship of John Simmonds since 1982, had woven itself into the fabric of his life, becoming more than just a vehicle. With the sad passing of John Simmonds, the bike was seeking a new chapter, and what better home than a museum dedicated to protecting the legacy of iconic motorcycles.

   Craig Vetter’s design would ultimately define a new class of motorcycle: the cruiser. Vetter was commissioned to reimagine the BSA A75, and thus, the 'works prototype' was born. However, the journey from inception to realisation was fraught with hurdles and by 1973, the X-75 was phased out due to its inability to meet American noise standards.

   Interested visitors can explore this magnificent addition at the National Motorcycle Museum. For more details on this and other exhibits, please visit the National Motorcycle Museum.

   Meanwhile, those looking to add a classic scooter or motorcycle to their own collection can register to bid at H&H’s next motorcycle auction which takes place on 15 November at the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull by visiting www.handh.co.uk.

3. The Triumph Factory Visitor Experience

   Posted on 12:00pm Monday 28th Aug 2023

   Explore our free exhibition at Hinckley and learn about Triumph's history as an iconic British Brand, from the very first prototype to our 1 millionth motorcycle. You'll be able to read all about our racing story, get up-close to well-known movie bikes and much more.

   Why not complete your visit with a Factory Tour where you'll be guided by one of our knowledgable Brand Ambassadors around the Home of Triumph, for an insight into the design, manufacturing and production processes that take our motorcycles from concept to creation.

   Book a tour

4. RED BULL RING – RACE

   Posted on 12:00pm Monday 21st Aug 2023

   APRILIA LIMITS THE DAMAGE IN AUSTRIA

   ON A TRACK THAT IS DIFFICULT TO DIGEST FOR THE ITALIAN PROJECT, ALEIX AND MAVERICK TAKE HOME IMPORTANT POINTS

   It promised to be a demanding weekend for Aprilia with the contribution of a track that is historically unfavourable, and the Sunday race at least partially confirmed this trend. There were signs of improvement, thanks to the hard work in the garage and in developing the new RS-GP. Maverick’s second place in qualifying, his frenzied pace in the Sprint Race, and the shrewd race for both riders today.

   Maverick built his race lap after lap, maintaining a good pace and arriving at the point of threatening for fifth. Once again today, a less-than-perfect start proved to be fatal, thrusting him into the first-corner chaos where he lost some positions (blamelessly this time as well). Under the chequered flag, the Spaniard finished sixth.

   Aleix is satisfied, praising the set-up improvements on his Aprilia in his overall assessment of the weekend, as well as his teammate’s performance. In the race, he had to manage wear on the rear tyre, particularly stressed in Austria, and he was unable to do better than ninth.

   ALEIX
   "It was an extremely demanding race physically. It was very hot and at the beginning I pushed as hard as I could to try and stay with the leading group. Then my performance dropped because I began to feel a drop in the rear tyre and I also had to manage fuel consumption. In any case, I’m fairly satisfied. Throughout the weekend, our performance improved and at the end of the day, I wasn’t too far behind Maverick, who rode at an extremely high level here. We knew that this track doesn’t suit our bike and particularly my riding style, but we took home some good points in the end. We’ll keep working, as always, to improve."

   MAVERICK
   "The start today was better than in the Sprint Race, but it wasn’t enough to maintain my position on the grid and I consequently lost more ground in the melee on the first corner. I squeezed the maximum from the bike for the entire race, making up ground and overtaking several times, but then I couldn’t close the gap behind the riders battling for the podium any further, which was already more than 2 seconds at that point. Right now, our priority is to improve the start. We have the potential to battle at the top and some circuits that are more favourable to us are coming up, so we need to be ready to seize every opportunity."

   LORENZO
   "I started rather cautiously in order to save my tyre and be able to make up ground in the second half of the race. Unfortunately, while I was keeping up with the group battling for points, I also had to manage fuel consumption, which limited my performance a bit. In any case, we were able to move forward with our scheduled testing programme and that is the most important thing."

    

    

5. E-bike Accidents: A Comprehensive Guide to Prevention and Safety

   Posted on 10:00am Tuesday 15th Aug 2023

   There's no denying that electric bikes, or e-bikes as they are commonly known, have significantly transformed our commuting experience in the most exciting way possible.  

   Electric bikes represent the future of transportation with all their advantages – convenience, impressive efficiency, and an unforgettable riding experience.

   However, with the popularity of e-bikes, the spike in electric bike-related accidents has become a significant concern.

   As a sobering reminder of this issue, let's take a moment to recall the recent unfortunate incidents on Manhattan Bridge. These reminders ring the alarm bells for the pressing need to prioritize the safe operation of electric bikes.

   In light of these events, this blog post aims to spread awareness about e-bike safety and provide a comprehensive guide to prevent accidents, thus ensuring a safer and more enjoyable ride for electric bicycle enthusiasts across the globe.

   Understanding E-bike Accidents

   To effectively prevent e-bike accidents, we must understand their nature, causes, and associated risks. To achieve this goal, it's crucial that we gain a complete understanding of their nature, causes, and risks associated with them.

   Let's dive into the specifics.

   Statistics

   The statistics about e-bike accidents over the years present a startling scenario. A report by the National Safety Council revealed that there had been a significant increase in e-bike-related accidents over the past few years.

   To put it in perspective, let's consider the numbers from 2021 alone - e-bike accidents resulted in over 15,000 injuries and nearly 300 fatalities in the United States. Such figures call for the immediate implementation of effective prevention strategies.

   Prevention Strategies for E-bike Accidents & Safety Tips

   Preventing e-bike accidents requires training, safety equipment, defensive riding techniques, understanding traffic rules, and road condition awareness. Let's delve into each of these aspects in more detail.

   Rider Training

   Proper training and rider education form the foundation of safe e-bike usage. It's about knowing how to ride a bike and understanding how your specific e-bike operates its capabilities, and its limitations.

   For instance, e-bikes can reach higher speeds than traditional bicycles, and understanding how to handle these speeds is crucial. Maintaining control over an e-bike requires knowledge of how to ride safely, negotiate turns efficiently and use its braking system effectively to avoid sudden stops that could cause accidents.

   Rider training can also involve performing a pre-ride inspection to ensure your e-bike is in good working condition. Checking tire pressure, checking brake function, and ensuring lights and signals work are among the steps needed for successful vehicle operation.

   Safety Equipment

   The importance of using essential safety gear cannot be overstated. Helmets, visibility accessories, and protective clothing are all vital in ensuring rider safety. A well-fitted helmet, for instance, can reduce the risk of head injuries by up to 70%.

   Consider the following safety gear:

   • Helmet: A helmet is your first defense in protecting your head in case of falls or collisions. Make sure it's well-fitted and meets safety standards.

   • Visibility Accessories: Lights and reflective clothing ensure other road users can see you, especially in poor light or weather conditions. These accessories could include front and rear lights, reflective vests, or reflective stickers on your e-bike.

   • Protective Clothing: Protective clothing, such as gloves and knee pads, can protect against scrapes and injuries in case of a fall. In colder weather, wearing layers is essential to stay warm and maintain your focus on the road.

   Defensive Riding Techniques

   Defensive riding involves anticipating hazards and maintaining situational awareness. Signal your turns, don't weave between lanes of traffic, and avoid sudden stops or changes of direction. It's about being proactive rather than reactive, anticipating potential hazards before they become a problem.

   For example, always be aware of your surroundings and watch for hazards such as potholes, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Maintain a safe distance from other road users and always signal your intentions to others.

   Understanding Traffic Rules

   E-bike riders must understand and respect traffic regulations. To do this responsibly means stopping at red lights and stop signs, and sharing the road responsibly with other vehicles and pedestrians.

   It's not just about knowing the rules but understanding why they exist and their role in keeping everyone safe.

   For instance, traffic laws are designed to regulate traffic flow and prevent accidents. By following these laws, you ensure your safety and contribute to the overall safety of the road.

   Road Condition Awareness

   Assessing and adapting to various road conditions is another critical aspect of safe e-bike riding. For instance, wet or icy conditions can significantly increase the risk of accidents and require additional caution. Understand how different conditions affect your e-bike's performance and adjust your riding style accordingly.

   For example, wet roads can make it harder for your e-bike's tires to grip the road, increasing the risk of skidding. In such conditions, reduce your speed and avoid sharp turns. Similarly, icy or snowy conditions can make it harder to see and navigate, requiring additional caution and slower speeds.

   These prevention strategies can significantly reduce the risk of e-bike accidents and ensure a safer riding experience.

   Promoting a Safety Culture for E-bike Riders

   Creating a safety culture among e-bike riders is a collective effort that requires the participation of everyone involved. It's about individual riders taking precautions and the broader community working together to promote safety and prevent accidents.

   Public Awareness

   Increasing public awareness about the risks and responsibilities involved in e-bike riding is a crucial first step. Understanding the inherent risks associated with electric bicycles (e-bikes), such as speed and maneuverability, is essential, along with following safety regulations.

   Community Engagement

   Engaging with local communities, organizations, and authorities can significantly promote e-bike safety. Participate in safety workshops, advocate for improved infrastructure, or share safety tips within your local community.

   Collaboration with Local Authorities

   Working with local authorities can lead to significant improvements in infrastructure, enhanced bike lane safety, and more vigorous law enforcement. Advocating for more bike lanes, improved signage, or stricter enforcement of traffic laws are all practical tools for improving cycling infrastructure.

   Collaboration with local authorities can include:

   • Advocating for the creation of more dedicated bike lanes and safer intersections.

   • Lobbying for better signage to alert drivers to the presence of e-bikes.

   • Working with law enforcement ensures traffic laws are enforced, and reckless riders are held accountable.

   Dealing with E-bike Accidents and Emergencies

   Despite our best efforts, accidents can still happen. Knowing how to handle emergencies and what to do in the aftermath of an accident.

   Emergency Preparedness

   Preparing for emergencies involves:

   • Having basic first-aid knowledge.

   • Knowing who to contact in an emergency.

   • Understanding how to report an accident.

   Learn basic first aid techniques, keep emergency contact numbers handy, and understand the procedures for reporting an accident to authorities and your insurance provider.

   Post-Accident Support

   After an accident, seeking medical assistance, fulfilling legal requirements, and understanding the steps for making insurance claims are essential.

   Steps to take after an accident:

   • Seeking immediate medical assistance, even if you think you're not seriously injured.

   • Reporting the accident to the authorities.

   • Documenting the accident scene with photos and gathering contact information from witnesses.

   • Keeping all medical records and receipts related to the accident.

   • Contact your insurance company to start the claims process.

   Himiway Electric Bikes: A Safe and Reliable Option

   When it comes to choosing an electric bike (e-bike), safety and reliability should be at the top of your priority list. Himiway Electric Bikes is a leading brand that offers high-quality e-bikes designed with safety in mind.

   Safety Features

   Himiway Electric Bikes come equipped with a range of safety features to ensure a secure riding experience. These features include:

   Sturdy Construction: Himiway bikes are built with durable frames and components, providing stability and enhanced safety.

   Powerful Brakes: The e-bikes are equipped with reliable hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes, ensuring quick and precise stopping power when needed.

   Integrated Lights: Safety is paramount, especially during low-light conditions. Himiway bikes feature integrated front and rear lights, improving visibility and increasing rider safety.

   Wide Tires: The e-bikes are equipped with wide tires that provide better traction and stability, reducing the risk of accidents caused by slipping or skidding.

   Suspension System: Many Himiway models have front suspension forks and rear suspension, absorbing shocks and providing a smoother ride even on rough terrains, enhancing rider comfort and safety.

   Reliability and Performance

   In addition to safety, Himiway Electric Bikes offer exceptional reliability and performance. Here are some key features that make Himiway bikes stand out:

   Long Battery Life: Himiway e-bikes come with high-capacity batteries that provide long riding ranges. The batteries are designed to last and can withstand various terrains and weather conditions.

   Powerful Motors: Himiway bikes are equipped with robust motors that offer ample power and torque. This ensures consistent performance, even when tackling steep hills or challenging terrains.

   Quality Components: Himiway sources components from reputable manufacturers, ensuring the bikes are made to last. From the drivetrain to the handlebars, every component undergoes rigorous testing and quality control.

   Customizable Riding Modes: Himiway e-bikes often feature multiple riding modes, allowing riders to choose their preferred level of assistance. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride or a bit of a workout, Himiway bikes can accommodate your preferences.

   Conclusion

   Preventing e-bike accidents and promoting rider safety is a shared responsibility. By adopting the strategies provided in this guide, staying updated on safety practices, and contributing to a safer e-bike community, we can all play a part in reducing e-bike accidents. Remember, safety isn't just about protecting yourself—it's about creating a safer environment for everyone on the road.

   

    

    

    

   article supplied 
   from [email protected]  - perveen akhter
   
   Asif Naeem -  [email protected]