Have you ever wondered why cars are the way they are? There are of course lots of different types of cars, with various engine types and seating configurations, front- or rear-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive and a huge range of optional equipment. Ignore all that stuff for the moment; I’m talking about the fundamentals of car design.

We’ve got yet another week of sunny blue skies across the country. With this week set to reach 30 degrees, Richard Gladman, IAM RoadSmart head of driving and riding standards, has put together some riding advice to keep you safe this summer.

Recently I attended the annual Tyre Safety Month Briefing in Coventry hosted by the UK charity TyreSafe, featuring guest speakers raising awareness about tyre safety. It provided a great opportunity for all who attended to learn more about correct car care and maintenance, essential for our safety in any vehicle.

Whether it’s summer or winter, there are some key items you’ll need in your vehicle all year around to help you stay safe on the road. Richard Gladman, IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, writes about the eight essentials that you should always keep in your vehicle.

I had the great pleasure of attending the Ladies Motorcycle Skills Day, with a special appearance by bike racer Maria Costello, at Thruxton Race Circuit last week. As well as getting some photo and video footage, it was a great way to chat to members and non-members - and browse the variety of stunning bikes - and talk to them about why they’re here and see first-hand the great work IAM RoadSmart does.