Meet the Associate: Javed Ahmed

This is a new feature aimed at celebrating our Associates, the new blood within LAM and the Members and Observers of the future.

Could you introduce yourself?

I’m Javed Ahmed. I work as a Marine Support Engineer, mainly with communications between vessels. I live in Crayford with my wife and two children.
Which bike are you riding? I’ve had a Kawasaki Z900 for a few months now. I bought it during lockdown so didn’t get a chance to have a test ride, but I’m very pleased with it.

So what brought you to LAM?

I see it as a follow on from the Enhanced Rider Scheme which I took in June 19. Huw Pritchard recommended that I follow on with IAM training so I joined in September this year. I haven’t had bikes for very long and I want to stay safe and improve my riding.

Have you had any mishaps?

Not really, I had a close call with a pedestrian who ran out into the road with a shopping trolley, but managed to stop in time.
What do you think of it so far? I’ve only had two ORs, but they we’re fantastic. I really enjoyed receiving the feedback and I feel it’s made a massive improvement to my riding.

I don’t suppose you’ve been able to participate in any LAM events

– residentials etc – since lockdown, but would you if you could?

In principle yes, but I’d have to plan it carefully given work and family commitments.

What sort of riding do you do mainly?

I bought a bike for commuting into the City, but since lockdown I’ve been working from home mainly. When I go for a ride I’d head towards Ide Hill or Ryka’s, sometimes down to the coast.

How do you keep your bike in good condition?

It’s still pretty new but I do a POWDERS check before every ride and also put it on the stand for a general check over every so often. It has a good coating of APF50 for the winter. I’m fortunate to have a garage to keep it in, where the bike sits inside a steel box, which has foiled one attempted theft.

What’s your favourite snack when you’re out for a ride?

Coffee and a cheese toastie. I’d particularly recommend the Deer Park Café in Eridge.

What do your family and friends think about you riding?

My wife wasn’t too keen at first but doing the Advanced Rider Training helps to reassure her that I’m safe. I get ‘cool uncle’ points from my nephews. My parents don’t actually know yet that I have a bike and I don’t think they’d be very pleased, but obviously they’ll find out sooner or later.

Do you now, or have you ever had a beard?

Yes, I grew it in March. It tends to get pushed back by my helmet.

Do you have any suggestions for the future of LAM?

I see LAM as being very well-run and hopefully this will continue. The website and forum are really good. If and when things get back to normal I’d like to see more AOR's, perhaps some midweek to suit people who work at weekends.

Thanks Javed. Great to meet you and hopefully we’ll do so in person once the regular meetings resume.