I'm currently training for the test. Membership was £149 for the first year, which covers IAM and the regional motorbike group fee, but also the cost of the actual test. Most of the first year's fee goes toward the police qualified examiner for your test, and is a one off charge (assuming you pass the test in a maximum of two years, i think). After the first year, it's only around £60 a year if I remember correctly. Prospective members can attend one of the monthly meets free of charge, where they will be assigned an observer and go out for a ride for, say, a couple of hours or so. At the end, you will be given a friendly assessment of your riding. After that you will probably have a good idea as to whether it's for you. I reckon it's excellent value. The observers are volunteers, and highly trained. I've learned stacks in the 3 months I've been a member. As well as regular observed runs, where you get a full report on your progress after each one, there's excellent social rides and other events. They also run additional courses, some free, others for a modest charge, such as riding with a pillion, advanced braking, look lean and roll etc. There's also organized trips to Wales, France etc. which you can sign up for.