Last week I received an interesting letter from Pro-Scot, regarding my training...
With one thing and another, I haven't been out on my bike much lately. After failing my test for the second time in September, I was a bit down hearted and really annoyed with Pro-Scot.
When I booked my training, I booked myself on the fully guaranteed course. This should have meant I received free training from Pro-Scot until I passed. Well, other than the 2 hours (minus instructor's lunch break - yes on my time!), I had had no formal training in 6 weeks. No ideal.
Following the fail, I headed back to the Pro-Scot's HQ, to get booked in for another test and hand in their high-viz vest. At that point I discussed my concerns, in particular the lack of training between tests. Basically, the person in charge of booking the motorbike lessons at Pro-Scot fobbed me off. His bottom line was the DSA set the tests and he can't book additional test. While I accepted that, I couldn't accept the lack of training in between tests.
At the time, he either couldn't or wouldn't book another test for me. Another trainee who had failed earlier that day couldn't get booked in either. I was told the office person would "call me".
I waited 3 weeks. The next available test slot was going to in December - almost 3 months since my last test. I had already pretty much given up on my training through Pro-Scot by this time and although I had a long conversation with the office person about the service I felt I had paid for, as opposed to the one I had received. Consequently, I said I would have to think about it.
I had a long chat with my OH and decided to get the miles under my belt and go for my test again in the New Year.
Then, I didn't hear anything from Pro-Scot until a letter arrived, asking for the test fee, as I was booked on a test on 5th December. This was the first I had heard of it. I was tempted to just ignore the letter, but my OH phoned Pro-Scot on my behalf.
After his long discussion with the office manager, it turned out the person dealing with the motorbike bookings wasn't dealing with the bookings properly. 2 examples she gave were the longest I should have waited for a re-sit was 2 weeks. Prior to the motorbike office person starting at Pro-Scot, at least 2 test slots per day were kept open for re-sits. He wasn't doing that. Also, he wasn't telling people about bookings or changes to them. Strangely enough, he's no longer with them.
The up shot of this is I am getting a full days training in mid January and Pro-Scot are paying for my test. Better get practicing...
Wednesday 5 December 2007
Tuesday 18 September 2007
Black Hands
Last month my OH and I decided it was about time we visited his sister and her fiance in Crewe. She moved there at the beginning of March and, short of an overnighter a couple of weeks later, we hadn't visited since. As her fiance works weekends and night shifts, the best weekend for them were either of the last two weekends. As we were both free this weekend just gone, it was decided to go then.
My OH wanted to take the Pan, as there's no point having a tourer and not touring. I was happy enough with that, as I wouldn't have any driving to do. As much as I enjoy driving, I hate motorway driving. Seeing as Crewe is 280 miles away, motorway driving is necessary. My only concern was I might fall asleep with nothing to do...
Our plan was to head into work and do a 3 hour day (which is the smallest permissible day - we have very flexi-time) and ride down from Edinburgh. We packed our bags the night before and got up sharp to get the bike packed and ourselves kitted up. The journey into work was painless enough as the roads are quiet at the time we left and familiar.
After our "day" at work we headed out of Edinburgh on the A701 towards Biggar. This is a lovely road - fairly quiet, a little twisty to let my OH play and the quickest way towards the southwest of Scotland from Edinburgh. We stopped at Biggar for lunch, where we discovered a church-run community centre which does good cheap soup, filled rolls etc. Duly refreshed, we headed south, towards the M74.
The remainder of the journey was mainly motorway, apart from about 10 miles between the end of the M74 (at the Scottish/English border) and the start of the M6. After about an hour of riding, my OH felt my helmet hitting his back...3 times. This is when he realised I had fallen asleep. As yo =u can imagine, falling asleep on the back of a motorbike is dangerous. He squeezed my leg to get my attention. That woke me up and I adjusted my position to stay awake. We pulled up at the next set of services to stretch our legs and for my OH to have a rest.
Our last stop was at Lancaster services - just for a stretch of legs and comfort stop. As this is (usually) an hourish from Crewe, my OH phoned his sister to let her know where we were and our eta. Unfortunately, we weren't aware of the broken down lorry blocking 1 carriageway of the motorway. This resulted in the final stage taking closer to 2 hours and my OH having to filter for most of that. At least we had that option on the bike.
On the Saturday evening, my OH took his sister's fiance for a run on the bike. He used to have a bike before he met my sister-in-law, but bought a car so when she visited he could take her places. He has been thinking about getting another bike and really liked the Pan, so might be a convert. It's a much better bike for couples than the sporty bikes he used to own.
As we had a long journey ahead of us on the Sunday, we headed off just before lunch. It was a bit windy, but (at that point) dry. Then we hit Cumbria and the heavens opened. Although we wear fabric gear, it's not totally waterproof - not much is at 60mph with driving rain. To make matters worse, we hadn't packed our waterproof gloves. Mine are fairly new and they got so wet the dye ran out of them and dyed my hands black....lovely.
My OH wanted to take the Pan, as there's no point having a tourer and not touring. I was happy enough with that, as I wouldn't have any driving to do. As much as I enjoy driving, I hate motorway driving. Seeing as Crewe is 280 miles away, motorway driving is necessary. My only concern was I might fall asleep with nothing to do...
Our plan was to head into work and do a 3 hour day (which is the smallest permissible day - we have very flexi-time) and ride down from Edinburgh. We packed our bags the night before and got up sharp to get the bike packed and ourselves kitted up. The journey into work was painless enough as the roads are quiet at the time we left and familiar.
After our "day" at work we headed out of Edinburgh on the A701 towards Biggar. This is a lovely road - fairly quiet, a little twisty to let my OH play and the quickest way towards the southwest of Scotland from Edinburgh. We stopped at Biggar for lunch, where we discovered a church-run community centre which does good cheap soup, filled rolls etc. Duly refreshed, we headed south, towards the M74.
The remainder of the journey was mainly motorway, apart from about 10 miles between the end of the M74 (at the Scottish/English border) and the start of the M6. After about an hour of riding, my OH felt my helmet hitting his back...3 times. This is when he realised I had fallen asleep. As yo =u can imagine, falling asleep on the back of a motorbike is dangerous. He squeezed my leg to get my attention. That woke me up and I adjusted my position to stay awake. We pulled up at the next set of services to stretch our legs and for my OH to have a rest.
Our last stop was at Lancaster services - just for a stretch of legs and comfort stop. As this is (usually) an hourish from Crewe, my OH phoned his sister to let her know where we were and our eta. Unfortunately, we weren't aware of the broken down lorry blocking 1 carriageway of the motorway. This resulted in the final stage taking closer to 2 hours and my OH having to filter for most of that. At least we had that option on the bike.
On the Saturday evening, my OH took his sister's fiance for a run on the bike. He used to have a bike before he met my sister-in-law, but bought a car so when she visited he could take her places. He has been thinking about getting another bike and really liked the Pan, so might be a convert. It's a much better bike for couples than the sporty bikes he used to own.
As we had a long journey ahead of us on the Sunday, we headed off just before lunch. It was a bit windy, but (at that point) dry. Then we hit Cumbria and the heavens opened. Although we wear fabric gear, it's not totally waterproof - not much is at 60mph with driving rain. To make matters worse, we hadn't packed our waterproof gloves. Mine are fairly new and they got so wet the dye ran out of them and dyed my hands black....lovely.
My lovely black hands.
Once we were was wet as we could get without jumping straight into a swimming pool, the rain stopped. I love British weather!
The journey, I must admit, was not the most pleasant experience I have every had, but it hasn't put me off. We won't forget our waterproof gloves again and will be investing in all-in-one waterproof riding suits. They're not attractive, but I'd rather be dry. It was very cold being wet. At least we got there and home safely and gave bike a good run. I wonder where we'll head next?
Thursday 30 August 2007
Curtain poles!
On Monday, as my OH and I got home from work, I overheard 1 of the local children saying to one of their friends "that's a really cool house; they have 2 motorbikes". Looks like our coolness factor has increased since my latest acquisition!
Since then, I as my OH had promised his Mum he'd fit a curtain pole the next time he was round, I used that as an opertunity to go for a practice run on my bike. As we were getting kitted up and the bikes unlocked a wee girl from up the road was really interested and was asking lots of questions:
"Why are you taking both bikes?" - because I'm a learning and wanted my OH to follow and keep an eye out for me.
"Why has that bike [mine] got a red L on a white bit of card?" - they are my L plates and I have to show them to let other road users know I'm just learning.
"Do you let her on your bike?" [to my OH] - yes, she rides on the back seat….etc, etc.
It was quite cute and, besides we would be hypocrites not to encourage her curiosity as it really annoys us when adults knock children down for being interesting and asking questions in general.
When we were ready to go, she insisted on watching. My OH made sure she was clear of our gates (so she wouldn't suddenly roll forward on her bicycle). I started to roll forward on the drive, but as we have a drop before the road, I was a little apprehensive riding my bike straight onto the road, as opposed to rolling it forward without any engine power. My OH told me to just roll it, if I felt more comfortable that way.
Once I had my bike on the road, I waited a moment for my OH to get saddled up again and started off. I was a little wobbly at first. I need to work on making sure my moving off is nice and positive. This is much safer as it makes the bike more stable. My OH also commented I was a little hesitant, though did agree when I said a little hesitation won't get you killed.
As it's 8 miles to my mother-in-laws on country roads, I took it easy on the bends, but was really impressed with myself getting the bike up to 55mph on the straights. That felt very similar to the sensation I had when I was learning to drive, My instructor would gently encourage my to speed up. I was convinced I was nailing it, but when I looked at the speedo, I'd barely got above 40mph…how things change!
My OH fitted the curtain pole and we headed for home. On balance, given I hadn’t ridden a bike for 3 weeks (apart from when I picked it up) and it's a new machine, I don’t think my ride was too bad. I will admit I need to practice, especially moving off, stopping and the dreaded u-turn!
Since then, I as my OH had promised his Mum he'd fit a curtain pole the next time he was round, I used that as an opertunity to go for a practice run on my bike. As we were getting kitted up and the bikes unlocked a wee girl from up the road was really interested and was asking lots of questions:
"Why are you taking both bikes?" - because I'm a learning and wanted my OH to follow and keep an eye out for me.
"Why has that bike [mine] got a red L on a white bit of card?" - they are my L plates and I have to show them to let other road users know I'm just learning.
"Do you let her on your bike?" [to my OH] - yes, she rides on the back seat….etc, etc.
It was quite cute and, besides we would be hypocrites not to encourage her curiosity as it really annoys us when adults knock children down for being interesting and asking questions in general.
When we were ready to go, she insisted on watching. My OH made sure she was clear of our gates (so she wouldn't suddenly roll forward on her bicycle). I started to roll forward on the drive, but as we have a drop before the road, I was a little apprehensive riding my bike straight onto the road, as opposed to rolling it forward without any engine power. My OH told me to just roll it, if I felt more comfortable that way.
Once I had my bike on the road, I waited a moment for my OH to get saddled up again and started off. I was a little wobbly at first. I need to work on making sure my moving off is nice and positive. This is much safer as it makes the bike more stable. My OH also commented I was a little hesitant, though did agree when I said a little hesitation won't get you killed.
As it's 8 miles to my mother-in-laws on country roads, I took it easy on the bends, but was really impressed with myself getting the bike up to 55mph on the straights. That felt very similar to the sensation I had when I was learning to drive, My instructor would gently encourage my to speed up. I was convinced I was nailing it, but when I looked at the speedo, I'd barely got above 40mph…how things change!
My OH fitted the curtain pole and we headed for home. On balance, given I hadn’t ridden a bike for 3 weeks (apart from when I picked it up) and it's a new machine, I don’t think my ride was too bad. I will admit I need to practice, especially moving off, stopping and the dreaded u-turn!
Monday 27 August 2007
Finally....
Yesterday, I finally picked up my bike. It was sitting ready for me and after a few formalities, I was ready to roll. That was fun…
The dealer is situated on a busy road, with a blind bend and Y-junction in 1 direction. Add to that the 2 other bikers, other than my OH, waiting on me to go (they were being very considerate, as they didn't want to spook the learner) and this being the first time riding the new bike. I had a bit of a wobble when I first moved off, with my OH riding behind me. He was sitting wide (bikers should ride slightly left of centre - he was slightly right) to keep an eye on me and offer a little protection.
I got home safely and my OH took it for a spin. That looked ridiculous as his knees were practically round his ears! When he came back he adjusted the clutch lever for me, which will make it easier for me moving off an slow riding (basically, anywhere that clutch control is necessary). It's not a fault with the dealer; clutch levers can be adjusted much like brake levers on bicycles.
Now I have the bike, I need to get practice in, so I pass my test this time round. I didn't do any more practice yesterday as I was really tired from my previous day's exploits. If the weather's fair tonight, I shall take it for a spin. My OH is talking of heading to his mothers to fit a curtain pole. Not very exciting, I know, but at least it's a reason to go somewhere. I remember when I was learning to drive. My uncle would take me for practice between lessons, but I didn't like just practicing; we had to have a reason for the journey. Now I have my bike, I shall be posting more frequently my progress.
The dealer is situated on a busy road, with a blind bend and Y-junction in 1 direction. Add to that the 2 other bikers, other than my OH, waiting on me to go (they were being very considerate, as they didn't want to spook the learner) and this being the first time riding the new bike. I had a bit of a wobble when I first moved off, with my OH riding behind me. He was sitting wide (bikers should ride slightly left of centre - he was slightly right) to keep an eye on me and offer a little protection.
I got home safely and my OH took it for a spin. That looked ridiculous as his knees were practically round his ears! When he came back he adjusted the clutch lever for me, which will make it easier for me moving off an slow riding (basically, anywhere that clutch control is necessary). It's not a fault with the dealer; clutch levers can be adjusted much like brake levers on bicycles.
Now I have the bike, I need to get practice in, so I pass my test this time round. I didn't do any more practice yesterday as I was really tired from my previous day's exploits. If the weather's fair tonight, I shall take it for a spin. My OH is talking of heading to his mothers to fit a curtain pole. Not very exciting, I know, but at least it's a reason to go somewhere. I remember when I was learning to drive. My uncle would take me for practice between lessons, but I didn't like just practicing; we had to have a reason for the journey. Now I have my bike, I shall be posting more frequently my progress.
Wednesday 22 August 2007
Still waiting
Before I can pick up my new bike, the DVLA have to register it. For that, they needed a copy of my insurance certificate for the bike. That’s where the problems started...
As the insurance claim for my car is still ongoing, I had to wait ‘till the Monday after ordering my bike to phone the car insurance provider to find out what status of claim would be recorded against me. This was to allow me to correctly declare the claims I have had (one) in the last 3 years. So far, I’m 2 says since ordering my bike.
I then phoned round the brokers for a quote and bought a policy I was happy with. The broker told me it would be 3-5 working days until my insurance documents got to me. I thought to myself, knowing my luck, it’ll take the full 5 days. Add to that a postal strike...great. To save a bit of time, I asked for them to send a cover note to the dealer. I carefully spelled out the address very carefully, but the person I was speaking to wasn’t the fizziest can in fridge. The dealer didn’t get it. Also, the insurance documents took the full 5 days.
Last Tuesday, I dropped the insurance certificate off at the dealer. He stated the DVLA says it takes 3-5 working days to process the documentation, though in his experience the local office will process it there and then. Well, I called the dealer today as it’s more than 5 working days since they took the documentation to the DVLA local office. As you may have guessed, they still haven’t received the documentation from the DVLA. I love the civil service, don’t you? The person I spoke to \t the dealer also stated they were now chasing the DVLA. Hopefully I’ll get a phone call tomorrow telling me it’s ready.
I can’t even get annoyed with the dealer, as the delay has been cause by things totally outwith their control. Besides, my bike is sitting waiting for me, the dealer just needs the paperwork.
Monday 6 August 2007
His 'n Hers
If there's one thing I don't understand, it's why couples on bikes (usually married couples on tourers) feel the need to wear matching kit. Now, if they have got a stunning bargain on 2 jackets, say, good on them. But what I'm talking about is much scarier than that.
You don't need my to tell you that men and women are built differently. There was a time (not that long ago) when almost all rider gear was "unisex" - let's face it, that means mens wear. Fortunately, the manufacturers have realised they were missing out on a potentially lucrative market and it is relatively easy to buy ladies specific kit (there's even 1 accessory company I am aware of that only sell ladies wear).
So, I found it strange when my OH and I went on our first Pan Clan run. There were 9 bikes, 3 of which were couples (including my OH and I). Of the 3 couples, only my OH and I didn't have matching kit. This was from the helmets to the boots. Jackets, I can live with as there isn't much that is different between a ladies and gents bike jacket, but trousers are a different matter. Men don't have hips and generally have longer legs. I didn't have to look too closely to see that the trousers on the ladies weren't an ideal fit, as they had to compromise waist size over hip size and they appeared a tad long.
And, what scared my more than that was matching helmets, which co-ordinated not only with the rider and pillion, but with the colour of the bike! Besides, I have found that helmets are very like shoes. Some are a small fit; some large. Even a smaller size of the same helmet may not be a comfortable fit for another person. Therefore, I find it surprising that those couples could get 2 matching helmets that fitted each other comfortably. My OH and I certinatly can't, but he has a choice of 1 helmet, as only 1 manufacturer does one large enough for him.
I hear you saying "but, surely if they got a bargain, what's it to do with you". Well, the kit they had wasn't the type that generally features in reduced to clear bins. And, it's my blog, therefore my opinion.
In case you were wondering, my OH and I have very different kit. I have a red helmet and he has a black one; I have a blue, ladies specific, jacket and his is grey. Our trousers are by the same company, but I did get a ladies specific pair. Besides, they were in the reduced to cleat section as the place we bought them was closing down.
You don't need my to tell you that men and women are built differently. There was a time (not that long ago) when almost all rider gear was "unisex" - let's face it, that means mens wear. Fortunately, the manufacturers have realised they were missing out on a potentially lucrative market and it is relatively easy to buy ladies specific kit (there's even 1 accessory company I am aware of that only sell ladies wear).
So, I found it strange when my OH and I went on our first Pan Clan run. There were 9 bikes, 3 of which were couples (including my OH and I). Of the 3 couples, only my OH and I didn't have matching kit. This was from the helmets to the boots. Jackets, I can live with as there isn't much that is different between a ladies and gents bike jacket, but trousers are a different matter. Men don't have hips and generally have longer legs. I didn't have to look too closely to see that the trousers on the ladies weren't an ideal fit, as they had to compromise waist size over hip size and they appeared a tad long.
And, what scared my more than that was matching helmets, which co-ordinated not only with the rider and pillion, but with the colour of the bike! Besides, I have found that helmets are very like shoes. Some are a small fit; some large. Even a smaller size of the same helmet may not be a comfortable fit for another person. Therefore, I find it surprising that those couples could get 2 matching helmets that fitted each other comfortably. My OH and I certinatly can't, but he has a choice of 1 helmet, as only 1 manufacturer does one large enough for him.
I hear you saying "but, surely if they got a bargain, what's it to do with you". Well, the kit they had wasn't the type that generally features in reduced to clear bins. And, it's my blog, therefore my opinion.
In case you were wondering, my OH and I have very different kit. I have a red helmet and he has a black one; I have a blue, ladies specific, jacket and his is grey. Our trousers are by the same company, but I did get a ladies specific pair. Besides, they were in the reduced to cleat section as the place we bought them was closing down.
Saturday 4 August 2007
Bike Shopping
Prior to doing my CBT, my OH and I had spent a lot of time getting my sister-in-law's Suzuki GS125 back on the road. She had bought it brand new 6 years previously, as her instructor recommended getting a learner legal bike to practice on before sitting her test. Unfortunately, she failed her test and lost the motivation to get her licence. Consequently, the GS sat in her parents' back garden for 6 years, accumulating 90 miles (yes, that is not a typo) on the clock, about 10 of which were through pushing it around the garden.
Once my OH finally fixed the problem and got the GS MOT'd and insured, it was back on the road. He then did a deal the his sister that he would take the bike on for a year, put some mileage on it, and we would either keep it and pay her market value for the bike, or sell the bike and give her the money.
Just before I did my CBT, my OH took me out to the airfield I've mentioned un earlier posts. This was to let me have a litte bit of an idea of what I was letting myself into. Once I did my CBT, the plan was to use the GS to build up my confidence before taking formal lessons. Unfortunately, although the GS is a learner legal machine, it's not ideal for a novice. The mirrors are tiny and the clutch leaver is very stiff (which wasn't helped by it being bent, when my sister-in-law dropped it). Consequently, I haven't really used it.
Despite these issues, now I have had lessons, you might think those would be tolerable, until I pass and can get pretty much any bike I like, so long as the BHP is less than 33, or the machine is restricted to that. However, the GS has what my OH describes as the 3 second side stand. Turn your back on the bike, when you've parked it on the side stand and 3 seconds later hear the sickening crunch of the bike falling over. Thus, I cannot use the side stand to help with getting on and off. Not exactly what could be described as idea for practicing.
So, the search for a bike began. I set my criteria:
1. Maximum £2000 budget.
2. Reasonably well know make - therefore I would be better placed to sell for a decent price and obtain parts.
3. Cheap to insure.
4. Traditional style - trail style bikes are too tall; sports style (why, it's a 125!) and cruisers push your feet forward, which I'm not too happy with, given my inexperience.
As I mention in my "First Lesson" post, the Honda GS125, although a very good bike, does not have a side stand, so was out of the running. I had considered a van van, as having had most of my lessons on it, I was happy enough riding it. That was until I read the Motorcycle News (MCN) review. It stated the van van does not have a light in the instrument panel - err, so that makes it day time use only. What's the point in that?
I then had a look at the main manufacturers' websites and it didn't look promising. Only Honda had a traditional style bike, namely the GS. All the others had either sporty style or cruiser...
Last weekend, while I had been having lessons, my OH took himself off to various dealers to see "in the fresh" what the market has to offer. In his travels, he came across the Suzuki EN125. On the face of it, it appeared to be an evolution of the GS, but it had a proper side stand. We had a look around the net and, although it was not on Suzuki's UK website, there seemed to be a reasonable amount of not Suzuki dealers selling them. Also, a fair amount of training schools use them, which, given the abuse they'll get in that environment, is a good advert.
Yesterday, we paid a visit to Scott Murray Motorcycles in Dunfermline, so I could have a look myself. I was very impressed with the look of the bike. It turns out it is an official Suzuki bike, but it's a parallel import, though it has DSA type approval, therefore it's totally UK raod legal. It would appear Suzuki don't import them directly, as the EN would effectively compete with their other 125s, which is a bit daft, from a business point of view.
Jon Murray of Scott Murray Motorcycles couldn't have been more helpful. He explained the deal with the bike, as described in the above paragraph. My OH and I had a really good look over the machine and it looked very good quality. It's all genuine Suzuki parts, made in Japan.
So, lets go back to my criteria:
1. Maximum £2000 budget - check
2. Reasonably well know make - therefore I would be better placed to sell for a decent price and obtain parts - check.
3. Cheap to insure. - check
4. Traditional style - trail style bikes are too tall; sports style (why, it's a 125!) and cruisers push your feet forward, which I'm not too happy with, given my inexperience. - check.
Jon Murray even got me sitting on it and I felt really comfortable on it. Now, this bike is brand new and usually I have the opinion of buy second hand and let someone else pay the depreciation for you. However, I would be toiling to get a second hand Japanese bike that met my criteria for less than £2000, unless it had been thrashed into the ground. It seemed the perfect bike for me.
So my OH and I could have a "discussion", we went to Scott Murray Motorcycle's accessories shop. Firstly, this allowed me to look for top boxes, as I wanted a little storage, even if only for my lid. Secondly, we could have a chat about the EN without Jon Murray listening. I thought I was idea and so did my OH. I also found a top box that fitted my lid.
We went back through to see Jon Murray and I bought the bike. There are even going to fit the top box for me, which saves a little hassle. Cool. All I need to do now is arrange insurance and get the cover note to Scott Murray for road tax purposes. The main thing that will slow things down is the DVLA getting the registration papers out to Scott Murray.
So, I'm now looking forward to getting my new wheels. I had a choice of red or blue. As red is my favourite colour and the rest of the fleet is red, guess what colour I chose?!
Now, all we have to do it extend the driveway, fit a ground anchor and get rid of the GS. That shouldn't be too much hassle, so long as it doesn't rain for the next week. I don't really want to dig turf and soil in the wet - would you?
Once my OH finally fixed the problem and got the GS MOT'd and insured, it was back on the road. He then did a deal the his sister that he would take the bike on for a year, put some mileage on it, and we would either keep it and pay her market value for the bike, or sell the bike and give her the money.
Just before I did my CBT, my OH took me out to the airfield I've mentioned un earlier posts. This was to let me have a litte bit of an idea of what I was letting myself into. Once I did my CBT, the plan was to use the GS to build up my confidence before taking formal lessons. Unfortunately, although the GS is a learner legal machine, it's not ideal for a novice. The mirrors are tiny and the clutch leaver is very stiff (which wasn't helped by it being bent, when my sister-in-law dropped it). Consequently, I haven't really used it.
Despite these issues, now I have had lessons, you might think those would be tolerable, until I pass and can get pretty much any bike I like, so long as the BHP is less than 33, or the machine is restricted to that. However, the GS has what my OH describes as the 3 second side stand. Turn your back on the bike, when you've parked it on the side stand and 3 seconds later hear the sickening crunch of the bike falling over. Thus, I cannot use the side stand to help with getting on and off. Not exactly what could be described as idea for practicing.
So, the search for a bike began. I set my criteria:
1. Maximum £2000 budget.
2. Reasonably well know make - therefore I would be better placed to sell for a decent price and obtain parts.
3. Cheap to insure.
4. Traditional style - trail style bikes are too tall; sports style (why, it's a 125!) and cruisers push your feet forward, which I'm not too happy with, given my inexperience.
As I mention in my "First Lesson" post, the Honda GS125, although a very good bike, does not have a side stand, so was out of the running. I had considered a van van, as having had most of my lessons on it, I was happy enough riding it. That was until I read the Motorcycle News (MCN) review. It stated the van van does not have a light in the instrument panel - err, so that makes it day time use only. What's the point in that?
I then had a look at the main manufacturers' websites and it didn't look promising. Only Honda had a traditional style bike, namely the GS. All the others had either sporty style or cruiser...
Last weekend, while I had been having lessons, my OH took himself off to various dealers to see "in the fresh" what the market has to offer. In his travels, he came across the Suzuki EN125. On the face of it, it appeared to be an evolution of the GS, but it had a proper side stand. We had a look around the net and, although it was not on Suzuki's UK website, there seemed to be a reasonable amount of not Suzuki dealers selling them. Also, a fair amount of training schools use them, which, given the abuse they'll get in that environment, is a good advert.
Yesterday, we paid a visit to Scott Murray Motorcycles in Dunfermline, so I could have a look myself. I was very impressed with the look of the bike. It turns out it is an official Suzuki bike, but it's a parallel import, though it has DSA type approval, therefore it's totally UK raod legal. It would appear Suzuki don't import them directly, as the EN would effectively compete with their other 125s, which is a bit daft, from a business point of view.
Jon Murray of Scott Murray Motorcycles couldn't have been more helpful. He explained the deal with the bike, as described in the above paragraph. My OH and I had a really good look over the machine and it looked very good quality. It's all genuine Suzuki parts, made in Japan.
So, lets go back to my criteria:
1. Maximum £2000 budget - check
2. Reasonably well know make - therefore I would be better placed to sell for a decent price and obtain parts - check.
3. Cheap to insure. - check
4. Traditional style - trail style bikes are too tall; sports style (why, it's a 125!) and cruisers push your feet forward, which I'm not too happy with, given my inexperience. - check.
Jon Murray even got me sitting on it and I felt really comfortable on it. Now, this bike is brand new and usually I have the opinion of buy second hand and let someone else pay the depreciation for you. However, I would be toiling to get a second hand Japanese bike that met my criteria for less than £2000, unless it had been thrashed into the ground. It seemed the perfect bike for me.
So my OH and I could have a "discussion", we went to Scott Murray Motorcycle's accessories shop. Firstly, this allowed me to look for top boxes, as I wanted a little storage, even if only for my lid. Secondly, we could have a chat about the EN without Jon Murray listening. I thought I was idea and so did my OH. I also found a top box that fitted my lid.
We went back through to see Jon Murray and I bought the bike. There are even going to fit the top box for me, which saves a little hassle. Cool. All I need to do now is arrange insurance and get the cover note to Scott Murray for road tax purposes. The main thing that will slow things down is the DVLA getting the registration papers out to Scott Murray.
So, I'm now looking forward to getting my new wheels. I had a choice of red or blue. As red is my favourite colour and the rest of the fleet is red, guess what colour I chose?!
Now, all we have to do it extend the driveway, fit a ground anchor and get rid of the GS. That shouldn't be too much hassle, so long as it doesn't rain for the next week. I don't really want to dig turf and soil in the wet - would you?
Friday 3 August 2007
Bike Intercom
Anyone who knows my OH and I knows we can talk the legs of the hind of a donkey once we get going. This, for obvious reasons, isn't possible on a motorbike, so the search for rider to pillion communications began.
In the past my OH had bought an Oxford rider to pillion coms set. Oxford are a manufacture of bike accessories. This he managed to kill within 1/2 mile, despite the fact that it was not actually connected to the bike - it had its own, independent, power.
So, the search for something a bit more reliable began. We discovered there are 2 main manufactures of bike coms available in the UK - Autocom and Starcom. Both have sets which start from a power unit and headphones for the rider to, for example, listen to music. They then can be upgraded to allow the rider to pillion to talk up to bike to bike coms. The main difference was the price. For the rider to pillion option, Autocom are about £100 more expensive.
Just to make sure, my OH had a good look on-line at bike forums etc, to check Starcom seemed reliable. From that research, other bikers seemed to love Starcom. So, as you may have guessed, we plumped for Starcom.
My OH spent time setting the unit up. This involved positioning the headphones and mikes in our helmets, sewing the cables out of the way and setting the levels. Setting the levels was the most fiddly. He made the major adjustments in the house, using a 12v supply, but we had to go for a proving run, as road and wind noise make a considerable difference to the way the system works. Following this proving run, there were a couple of stops necessary to make small adjustments, but once those were made, the system appeared to work really well.
The following day, we were on a Pan Clan run to Lindisfarne. About an hour into the run, I heard a small crackle and shortly afterwards, my OH said something and was much louder than he had been earlier. About a mile (if that) afterwards, a terrible very loud screach came from the unit. We were on a roundabout and it was all my OH could do to prevent the bike going off the road. It was very painful and even I could barely think. I wasn't having to drive. We pulled over and unplugged from the unit; carrying on our merry(ish) way.
The following day, my OH contacted Starcom direct. They asked if he'd send the unit direct to them, as they don't get many returned with the full background. About a week later, we received the "new" unit. The had replaced the motherboard (to which everything is attached), so all we got back was the box the originally came in. We think Starcom did that as my OH had put velcro on the underside, to attach the unit to the bike. Given how well Starcom deal with the problem, we just put the issue down to experience.
Unfortunately, we had to set the levels again, but everything seemed to be going okay, until today. We were leaving work and I was having difficulty plugging into the unit. My OH noticed 1 of the connector pins were bent. Although this was a bit of a pain, he wasn't too worried, as he could unbend the pin or get a new connector cable, as it is a standard fitment.
When we got home, my OH realised that the pin was bent as a bit of plastic from the main unit had broken off into the connector. Consequently, we now aren't was impressed with Starcom as we once were. Although we will give the benefit of the doubt on 1 occasion, we won't twice for the same product. So, it's back to the shop the unit will be going, for a refund. Looks like we will be getting Autocom after all. Now, I'm thinking that this proves that you do get what you pay for.
In the past my OH had bought an Oxford rider to pillion coms set. Oxford are a manufacture of bike accessories. This he managed to kill within 1/2 mile, despite the fact that it was not actually connected to the bike - it had its own, independent, power.
So, the search for something a bit more reliable began. We discovered there are 2 main manufactures of bike coms available in the UK - Autocom and Starcom. Both have sets which start from a power unit and headphones for the rider to, for example, listen to music. They then can be upgraded to allow the rider to pillion to talk up to bike to bike coms. The main difference was the price. For the rider to pillion option, Autocom are about £100 more expensive.
Just to make sure, my OH had a good look on-line at bike forums etc, to check Starcom seemed reliable. From that research, other bikers seemed to love Starcom. So, as you may have guessed, we plumped for Starcom.
My OH spent time setting the unit up. This involved positioning the headphones and mikes in our helmets, sewing the cables out of the way and setting the levels. Setting the levels was the most fiddly. He made the major adjustments in the house, using a 12v supply, but we had to go for a proving run, as road and wind noise make a considerable difference to the way the system works. Following this proving run, there were a couple of stops necessary to make small adjustments, but once those were made, the system appeared to work really well.
The following day, we were on a Pan Clan run to Lindisfarne. About an hour into the run, I heard a small crackle and shortly afterwards, my OH said something and was much louder than he had been earlier. About a mile (if that) afterwards, a terrible very loud screach came from the unit. We were on a roundabout and it was all my OH could do to prevent the bike going off the road. It was very painful and even I could barely think. I wasn't having to drive. We pulled over and unplugged from the unit; carrying on our merry(ish) way.
The following day, my OH contacted Starcom direct. They asked if he'd send the unit direct to them, as they don't get many returned with the full background. About a week later, we received the "new" unit. The had replaced the motherboard (to which everything is attached), so all we got back was the box the originally came in. We think Starcom did that as my OH had put velcro on the underside, to attach the unit to the bike. Given how well Starcom deal with the problem, we just put the issue down to experience.
Unfortunately, we had to set the levels again, but everything seemed to be going okay, until today. We were leaving work and I was having difficulty plugging into the unit. My OH noticed 1 of the connector pins were bent. Although this was a bit of a pain, he wasn't too worried, as he could unbend the pin or get a new connector cable, as it is a standard fitment.
When we got home, my OH realised that the pin was bent as a bit of plastic from the main unit had broken off into the connector. Consequently, we now aren't was impressed with Starcom as we once were. Although we will give the benefit of the doubt on 1 occasion, we won't twice for the same product. So, it's back to the shop the unit will be going, for a refund. Looks like we will be getting Autocom after all. Now, I'm thinking that this proves that you do get what you pay for.
Tuesday 31 July 2007
Failed
Things didn't start off well this morning. I was asked to be at Pro-Scot at 9:30 for a pre-test session. I, as you can imagine was a little nervous, partly as I wasn't sure I was ready for my test. I arrived at Pro-Scot at just before 9:30, giving myself time to have a comfort stop before heading off. The instructor didn't turn up to get me 'till 9:45, giving me loads of time to think of all the things that could go wrong.
My test was at 11:41 (yes, 41). I went out with the trainee who's test was immediately before mine. Her run was a mock test and mine a bit more practice. Just before the time of her test, we headed to the DSA test centre. Waiting there was another trainee who had just failed his test. He was sitting his test on the 500, so had to wait on the instructor to take him back to Pro-Scot. Learners can only ride 125s alone. Otherwise, you have to be supervised by a DSA approved instructor.
So, we headed to Pro-Scot to take him back and I nearly pulled out in front of a car. There was no way he was doing 30, but that spooked me. I then did my mock test. As I knew, my u-turns still needed work, so my instructor worked with me on them until just before my test. Although I can understand the logic of concentrating on the problem area, that can lead to complacency in other areas.
We arrived at the test centre with only about 3 minutes to spare. Now, I will admit I am not the world's best time keeper, but for important appointments, I like to be at least 10 minutes early, to give me time to settle. Okay, I thought, I can handle this. But, the trainee before had also failed, which shouldn't have stressed me out, but did. Also, during my run, 1 of my L plates had fallen off. My instructor then had to take on of the L plates from the other trainees bike to put on mine. This was cutting things way too fine...not good for the nerves.
Well, the preliminaries of the test went okay. The examiner checked all my documents were in order (licence, theory test and CBT certificates). He then issued me with the radio he would use to give instructions. He was really good, as he was taking great effort to put me at my ease.
To start the test, I was asked to read a number plate, to check my eyesight. That was okay. Then I was asked 2 "show me, tell me" questions, about maintenance of the bike. I think I gave almost text book answers. Then it was into our respective bikes, a quick check of the radio, to ensure it was working and I could hear properly.
Once we were moving, I suddenly felt much more relaxed. I think that's where it all started to go wrong. We headed to a residential estate in Kirkcaldy. I knew from lessons that in the estate I would have to perform my u-turn and emergency stop. Being a residential area, there were lots of parked cars. I had just headed around a junction and there was a parked car in front of me. I started to move out to pass the car and noticed too late the car heading towards me, who had right of way. I didn't have an accident, but I knew at that point that I had failed.
It all went pear shaped form then on. The u-turn was okay until 80% round. However, as I knew I was now going through the motions of the test, I didn't care, so put my foot down. Things just went downhill from there. I had been having balance issues on my earlier lessons, but I had found it.
I lost it again during the test....I also started weird indicating - like, way did I suddenly start indicating right when going straight on at a mini roundabout? I never did that on any of my lessons and would never do that in the car. I suppose I just really couldn't see the point of finishing the test and really didn't care any more. It wouldn't have been so bad if what I had done was not an absolute definite fail, but when you know and the examiner knows that you know that you have failed, what is the point of carrying on?
Anyway, when we got back to the test centre, the examiner told me that I had failed (shock!) and asked on if I wanted him to tell me why. I explained I thought it was not giving way to oncoming traffic and my u-turn. He agreed and brought up the indicator and balance issues. No real surprises.
As I was sitting my test on the 125, I was legally entitled to ride unsupervised. I headed back to Pro-Scot and the office staff thought I was winding them up, as the instructor hadn't followed me, until I pointed out I was on the 125. I'm now booked for a re-test on...11th September - yes, 6 weeks away.
I'm going to see what additional training Pro-Scot are going to give me. If it's as long as this morning's session (1.5 hours), that's way too long to go without being on a bike. I'll have to find out about that and take them to task if that is the case.
Whatever happens, I need to get a 125 of my own to get the mileage under my belt and practice my u-turns, so when I re-sit I don't ride like a learner and pass. My OH is looking forward to going bike shopping. As far as he is concerned, any excuse is better than none.
My test was at 11:41 (yes, 41). I went out with the trainee who's test was immediately before mine. Her run was a mock test and mine a bit more practice. Just before the time of her test, we headed to the DSA test centre. Waiting there was another trainee who had just failed his test. He was sitting his test on the 500, so had to wait on the instructor to take him back to Pro-Scot. Learners can only ride 125s alone. Otherwise, you have to be supervised by a DSA approved instructor.
So, we headed to Pro-Scot to take him back and I nearly pulled out in front of a car. There was no way he was doing 30, but that spooked me. I then did my mock test. As I knew, my u-turns still needed work, so my instructor worked with me on them until just before my test. Although I can understand the logic of concentrating on the problem area, that can lead to complacency in other areas.
We arrived at the test centre with only about 3 minutes to spare. Now, I will admit I am not the world's best time keeper, but for important appointments, I like to be at least 10 minutes early, to give me time to settle. Okay, I thought, I can handle this. But, the trainee before had also failed, which shouldn't have stressed me out, but did. Also, during my run, 1 of my L plates had fallen off. My instructor then had to take on of the L plates from the other trainees bike to put on mine. This was cutting things way too fine...not good for the nerves.
Well, the preliminaries of the test went okay. The examiner checked all my documents were in order (licence, theory test and CBT certificates). He then issued me with the radio he would use to give instructions. He was really good, as he was taking great effort to put me at my ease.
To start the test, I was asked to read a number plate, to check my eyesight. That was okay. Then I was asked 2 "show me, tell me" questions, about maintenance of the bike. I think I gave almost text book answers. Then it was into our respective bikes, a quick check of the radio, to ensure it was working and I could hear properly.
Once we were moving, I suddenly felt much more relaxed. I think that's where it all started to go wrong. We headed to a residential estate in Kirkcaldy. I knew from lessons that in the estate I would have to perform my u-turn and emergency stop. Being a residential area, there were lots of parked cars. I had just headed around a junction and there was a parked car in front of me. I started to move out to pass the car and noticed too late the car heading towards me, who had right of way. I didn't have an accident, but I knew at that point that I had failed.
It all went pear shaped form then on. The u-turn was okay until 80% round. However, as I knew I was now going through the motions of the test, I didn't care, so put my foot down. Things just went downhill from there. I had been having balance issues on my earlier lessons, but I had found it.
I lost it again during the test....I also started weird indicating - like, way did I suddenly start indicating right when going straight on at a mini roundabout? I never did that on any of my lessons and would never do that in the car. I suppose I just really couldn't see the point of finishing the test and really didn't care any more. It wouldn't have been so bad if what I had done was not an absolute definite fail, but when you know and the examiner knows that you know that you have failed, what is the point of carrying on?
Anyway, when we got back to the test centre, the examiner told me that I had failed (shock!) and asked on if I wanted him to tell me why. I explained I thought it was not giving way to oncoming traffic and my u-turn. He agreed and brought up the indicator and balance issues. No real surprises.
As I was sitting my test on the 125, I was legally entitled to ride unsupervised. I headed back to Pro-Scot and the office staff thought I was winding them up, as the instructor hadn't followed me, until I pointed out I was on the 125. I'm now booked for a re-test on...11th September - yes, 6 weeks away.
I'm going to see what additional training Pro-Scot are going to give me. If it's as long as this morning's session (1.5 hours), that's way too long to go without being on a bike. I'll have to find out about that and take them to task if that is the case.
Whatever happens, I need to get a 125 of my own to get the mileage under my belt and practice my u-turns, so when I re-sit I don't ride like a learner and pass. My OH is looking forward to going bike shopping. As far as he is concerned, any excuse is better than none.
Monday 30 July 2007
The weekend
Over the weekend, I had 2 more sessions of lessons. I could definitely see my confidence improve as I got used to the van van and the motorbike controls. I was pleased I had made the decision to sit my test on the 125 as the more I looked at the Honda CB500, the more I thought I don't have the confidence to ride a bike that big at the moment. At the end of the day, I'd much rather pass my test on a 125, even with the restriction, than scare myself witless on the 500 and totally bottle it.
During the weekend's sessions, although there were some problems, they were getting significantly better. I think, as the control of the bike was becoming more automatic, I was then able to better concentrate on road craft and actually riding the machine.
Anyways, my test is tomorrow. Now, the main thing I have a concern with is the u-turn. This is the one thing that most people fail on. Okay, so it demonstrates good machine control at slow speed, but once you've passed your test, you need never do one again. Mmh, let's see. I need to point the bike in the opposite direction. Do I toil performing a u-turn, while riding the bike and keeping both feet on the pegs, or paddle it round...I wonder. It strikes me the later method is safer. My OH said just adopt the "it's now or never" attitude. It worked for him on his test.
All going well, I shall be a very happy chappy tomorrow. Watch this space to see how I got on.
During the weekend's sessions, although there were some problems, they were getting significantly better. I think, as the control of the bike was becoming more automatic, I was then able to better concentrate on road craft and actually riding the machine.
Anyways, my test is tomorrow. Now, the main thing I have a concern with is the u-turn. This is the one thing that most people fail on. Okay, so it demonstrates good machine control at slow speed, but once you've passed your test, you need never do one again. Mmh, let's see. I need to point the bike in the opposite direction. Do I toil performing a u-turn, while riding the bike and keeping both feet on the pegs, or paddle it round...I wonder. It strikes me the later method is safer. My OH said just adopt the "it's now or never" attitude. It worked for him on his test.
All going well, I shall be a very happy chappy tomorrow. Watch this space to see how I got on.
Thursday 26 July 2007
Second Lesson
Today's lesson went much better than Tuesdays. I was put on a Suzuki Van Van (officially known as a RV125, by Suzuki) for this lesson. Okay, so it's ORANGE - definitely not cool. Me thinks, as the van van is a type of trail bike, Suzuki are trying to make it look like a KTM...THE name in trail bikes. All KTM's are ORANGE.
Anyway, never mind the colour. As soon as I sat on the van van I felt much more comfortable. I think it having a side stand, so I could get on and off the bike with it deployed, made a difference, as I wasn't constantly thinking "Am I going to get on/off of this without dropping it?". As long as the side stand is deployed, it will hold the bike. No more worries on that part.
I felt so much more in control than Tuesday. Today I felt I was riding the bike, not the other way around. That said, I am still having a couple of issues, which are more about confidence than anything else (that is a quote from my instructor).
At the end of my lesson, my instructor discussed my progress with me. He was pleased with the difference in my riding. However, he still recommended that I take my test on the 125 and be restricted to bikes with a 33 BHP for 2 years. Although on Tuesday I thought about pushing for doing my test on the 500, I now think that would be the worst thing I could do for my confidence. I now see that I can ride a bike, but I think I would be struggling to fully control a 500. Even if I did pass my test on a 500 - which I doubt I would manage - I think if I had a wee incident (i.e. a car pulling out in front of me) it would knock my confidence so much that I wouldn't want to ride a bike again. Which would totally defeat the purpose of getting my licence. So, I'll now have another 8 hours of lessons on the van van and my test on 31st July.
Now, when I pass my test, I'll want to get a bike, strangely enough! If I had been sitting my test on the Honda CB500, I was planning on getting a similar type of bike for my first bike. It's cheap to insure, will take a reasonable amount of abuse (that's why it's used my bike training schools), but will go some when you want to play. Now that I'm sitting my test on a 125, I will not be able to get a CB500 for 2 years.
As anyone under 21 can only sit their test on effectively a 125, there are restrict or kits that are available for many bikes, that will restrict the BHP of the bike to a maximum of 33BHP. Personally, I don't see the point of that. The engine of the bike to be restricted has been desgined to give a particular BHP for a reason, so restricting the BHP is going to have some kind of affect on the bike, over and above power. Besides, there are bikes on the market that have a bit more welly than the van van or CG125 (the CG has 14BHP), but are still less than 33BHP. Now all I'll have to do is find those bikes then find one I like, am comfortable with and is within budget. So, watch this space for how things go on my next couple of lessons.
Anyway, never mind the colour. As soon as I sat on the van van I felt much more comfortable. I think it having a side stand, so I could get on and off the bike with it deployed, made a difference, as I wasn't constantly thinking "Am I going to get on/off of this without dropping it?". As long as the side stand is deployed, it will hold the bike. No more worries on that part.
I felt so much more in control than Tuesday. Today I felt I was riding the bike, not the other way around. That said, I am still having a couple of issues, which are more about confidence than anything else (that is a quote from my instructor).
At the end of my lesson, my instructor discussed my progress with me. He was pleased with the difference in my riding. However, he still recommended that I take my test on the 125 and be restricted to bikes with a 33 BHP for 2 years. Although on Tuesday I thought about pushing for doing my test on the 500, I now think that would be the worst thing I could do for my confidence. I now see that I can ride a bike, but I think I would be struggling to fully control a 500. Even if I did pass my test on a 500 - which I doubt I would manage - I think if I had a wee incident (i.e. a car pulling out in front of me) it would knock my confidence so much that I wouldn't want to ride a bike again. Which would totally defeat the purpose of getting my licence. So, I'll now have another 8 hours of lessons on the van van and my test on 31st July.
Now, when I pass my test, I'll want to get a bike, strangely enough! If I had been sitting my test on the Honda CB500, I was planning on getting a similar type of bike for my first bike. It's cheap to insure, will take a reasonable amount of abuse (that's why it's used my bike training schools), but will go some when you want to play. Now that I'm sitting my test on a 125, I will not be able to get a CB500 for 2 years.
As anyone under 21 can only sit their test on effectively a 125, there are restrict or kits that are available for many bikes, that will restrict the BHP of the bike to a maximum of 33BHP. Personally, I don't see the point of that. The engine of the bike to be restricted has been desgined to give a particular BHP for a reason, so restricting the BHP is going to have some kind of affect on the bike, over and above power. Besides, there are bikes on the market that have a bit more welly than the van van or CG125 (the CG has 14BHP), but are still less than 33BHP. Now all I'll have to do is find those bikes then find one I like, am comfortable with and is within budget. So, watch this space for how things go on my next couple of lessons.
Tuesday 24 July 2007
First Lesson
This morning I had my first formal lesson since completing my CBT last year. Consequently, I took a while longer to get used to the bike Pro-Scot use. They use Honda CB125s (pictured) for the initial part of the training program. If you drive a car, you'll be aware that different cars (even of the same engine size) perform differently. This was the case with the Honda 125.
I needed a bit longer in the yard, getting used to the controls etc. While out on the road, I felt I was getting better, as it's a more natural environment. However, I was having issues with clutch control in particular. Clutch control is even more important for slow speed control on a motorbike that a car.
I must admit, I was finding it a bit odd using the clutch for slow speed control in second gear. Perhaps it's just me, but I thing if you're needing to take a corner using clutch control, perhaps a lower gear would give more control. So, I'm going to have to work on that.
The other thing that was annoying me was, as I was lacking confidence, the instructor was "concentrating" on me. Okay, I'll admit I wasn't perfect, by any stretch of the imagination, but I could see the other 3 trainees in front of me making some of the same mistakes and not getting away with it. In case you were wondering, all the trainees are issued with radio receivers and the trainer has a transmitter. As all the trainees are on the same frequency, we can all hear the instructions, comments etc the trainer is giving us.
When I was booking the training, I could have signed up for two eight hour days of training. I know, especially after my CBT, that I can get very tired concentration for that long. Also, when I get tired, I make mistakes, which makes me frustrated, so I make more mistakes and get into a vicious circle. So, I booked my training in 4 1/2 day sessions. This was questioned by my instructor, but when I explained the situation, he though it had been the office staff being sexist, rather than my request. It turns out some of the office staff don't think women can handle a full day in the saddle. I'm sure there are plenty men who think they can, but it is stretching their ability.
Anyway, at the end of the morning session, although I had noticed improvement, I also felt myself plateauing. I've seen this happening whenever I'm learning something new. Start off rubbish, get a little better, take a break, try again and the improvement is dramatic, but plateaus again. Hopefully that happens again on my next lesson.
I've now been advised that I may not be able to make the transition to the Honda CB500. If I don't take my test on a bike that big, I will be restricted to a bike of 33BHP or less for 2 years. Although that wouldn't be the end of the world, I'd really rather do my test on the 500. My plan now is to see how my lesson on Thursday goes. That will be on the 125 again. If is goes well and the instructor thinks I can make the transition to the 500, all well and good. If not, I'll see about getting extra instruction and delaying the date of my test, which is supposed to be 31st July. The course if fully guaranteed, so Pro-Scot have an obligation to train me until I pass. Personally, I think if I'm toiling on the 125, it may well be too soon going for my test next week.
We shall see. I shall update the blog after my next lesson session on Thursday, so watch this space to see how I get on.
I needed a bit longer in the yard, getting used to the controls etc. While out on the road, I felt I was getting better, as it's a more natural environment. However, I was having issues with clutch control in particular. Clutch control is even more important for slow speed control on a motorbike that a car.
I must admit, I was finding it a bit odd using the clutch for slow speed control in second gear. Perhaps it's just me, but I thing if you're needing to take a corner using clutch control, perhaps a lower gear would give more control. So, I'm going to have to work on that.
The other thing that was annoying me was, as I was lacking confidence, the instructor was "concentrating" on me. Okay, I'll admit I wasn't perfect, by any stretch of the imagination, but I could see the other 3 trainees in front of me making some of the same mistakes and not getting away with it. In case you were wondering, all the trainees are issued with radio receivers and the trainer has a transmitter. As all the trainees are on the same frequency, we can all hear the instructions, comments etc the trainer is giving us.
When I was booking the training, I could have signed up for two eight hour days of training. I know, especially after my CBT, that I can get very tired concentration for that long. Also, when I get tired, I make mistakes, which makes me frustrated, so I make more mistakes and get into a vicious circle. So, I booked my training in 4 1/2 day sessions. This was questioned by my instructor, but when I explained the situation, he though it had been the office staff being sexist, rather than my request. It turns out some of the office staff don't think women can handle a full day in the saddle. I'm sure there are plenty men who think they can, but it is stretching their ability.
Anyway, at the end of the morning session, although I had noticed improvement, I also felt myself plateauing. I've seen this happening whenever I'm learning something new. Start off rubbish, get a little better, take a break, try again and the improvement is dramatic, but plateaus again. Hopefully that happens again on my next lesson.
I've now been advised that I may not be able to make the transition to the Honda CB500. If I don't take my test on a bike that big, I will be restricted to a bike of 33BHP or less for 2 years. Although that wouldn't be the end of the world, I'd really rather do my test on the 500. My plan now is to see how my lesson on Thursday goes. That will be on the 125 again. If is goes well and the instructor thinks I can make the transition to the 500, all well and good. If not, I'll see about getting extra instruction and delaying the date of my test, which is supposed to be 31st July. The course if fully guaranteed, so Pro-Scot have an obligation to train me until I pass. Personally, I think if I'm toiling on the 125, it may well be too soon going for my test next week.
We shall see. I shall update the blog after my next lesson session on Thursday, so watch this space to see how I get on.
Tuesday 17 July 2007
The Pan Clan
When my OH still owned the ST1100, he came across the website for the Pan Clan, which it the Pan European (ST1100 and ST1300) owners club. Now, while looking at their website photos, frankly, it looked like if we were to join, we'd be socialising with people old enough to be our parents. This may not be a bad thing; experience, knowledge etc. My main doubt about joining was the riders (who would mainly, if not exclusively, be male - the Pan is a big bike), would spend time talking bike, while the pillions talked cooking and about their grandchildren.
Consequently, we hadn't joined when we owned the 1100. However, joining was brought up again when we got the 1300. I still had my doubts...Now I am about to digress, but there is a point to this.
A couple of years ago, our church acquired a projector. This is used during the service to show the words to songs, pictures, notices and basically anything the minister wants displayed during the service. It's also used by other organisations using the church for presentations etc. My OH, along with another member of the congregation, runs the projector.
About 2 weeks after we bought the 1300, the church was to be used for the local Scout district's centenary service. As it was my OH's turn to run the projector for the morning service, he was running the projector for the Scout service. He had taken the bike so I didn't have to hang around in Kirkcaldy until after the Scout service. Besides, a motorbike parked outside a Church of Scotland kirk does make a statement.
I'm getting to the point, honest...
The Scouter in charge of organising the logistics of the service is a Pan Clan member and got talking to my OH. I used to be a scouter, so know the guy, but have known him for a long time. He's a good guy, so we thought if he was a member, they might not be that bad a bunch after all.
We decided to go along to one of the club's monthly meetings, to see what the rest of the group were like. They couldn't have been more welcoming, though I think they're like the black pudding industry - always on the lookout for fresh blood!
After the meeting, we decided to join. We've now been on 3 runs. All different, but a good bit of socialising and a great way to see the country.
Consequently, we hadn't joined when we owned the 1100. However, joining was brought up again when we got the 1300. I still had my doubts...Now I am about to digress, but there is a point to this.
A couple of years ago, our church acquired a projector. This is used during the service to show the words to songs, pictures, notices and basically anything the minister wants displayed during the service. It's also used by other organisations using the church for presentations etc. My OH, along with another member of the congregation, runs the projector.
About 2 weeks after we bought the 1300, the church was to be used for the local Scout district's centenary service. As it was my OH's turn to run the projector for the morning service, he was running the projector for the Scout service. He had taken the bike so I didn't have to hang around in Kirkcaldy until after the Scout service. Besides, a motorbike parked outside a Church of Scotland kirk does make a statement.
I'm getting to the point, honest...
The Scouter in charge of organising the logistics of the service is a Pan Clan member and got talking to my OH. I used to be a scouter, so know the guy, but have known him for a long time. He's a good guy, so we thought if he was a member, they might not be that bad a bunch after all.
We decided to go along to one of the club's monthly meetings, to see what the rest of the group were like. They couldn't have been more welcoming, though I think they're like the black pudding industry - always on the lookout for fresh blood!
After the meeting, we decided to join. We've now been on 3 runs. All different, but a good bit of socialising and a great way to see the country.
Monday 16 July 2007
Passed
Well, my theory test, at least...
I got 35/35 for the question part and 55/75 for the hazard perception part of the test, which is, apparently, a high score.
The test was at 8:30 and I had to be at the test centre for 15 minutes before the test started. I thought it would be about a 15 minute drive, so I left the house at 7:50 and got to the test centre just as the news was starting, so I went in once the news had finished. I then had my documents checked, had locked my bag away and read the test centre rules, I was able to begin the test.
This differed from the last time I'd sat a theory test. As it was paper based, and sat in a traditional classroom setting, the test could not begin until all the participants were there. As the new test is computer based and the questions and video clips given to each participant are randomly selected from the database, I didn't have to wait on everyone else or the test start time. Thus, I started the test at 8:20 and was home by about ten past nine, with my pass certificate.
That's not bad going, as there is a practice session before the multiple choice section, to ensure you know what the format is and how to operate the equipment, which should take 15 minutes. There's 40 minutes allocated to sit that part of the test; then a sample video clip, for the hazard perception part, to take you through the way to highlight a potential and developing hazard. This takes about 5 minutes and there is then an option for a 3 minute break (I pushed the wrong button and landed up having to see the sample clip again - doh). Then there's the hazard perception itself; with 14 clips that are 1 minute long. Then, there's the option to answer some new theory test questions and watch a new hazard perception video clip, for possible use with future participants. Finally, there's a "customer satisfaction" questionnaire. I think you can do the sums and see I was quick.
To be fair, at least the DSA can't be criticised for not giving enough time.
So, now it will be on with the new part of getting my bike licence - lessons. They start on the 24th July and my test (yes, for real) is on the 31st. Fingers' crossed, I'll have a bike licence in just over a fortnight...just a wee bit scary, but really quite cool.
I got 35/35 for the question part and 55/75 for the hazard perception part of the test, which is, apparently, a high score.
The test was at 8:30 and I had to be at the test centre for 15 minutes before the test started. I thought it would be about a 15 minute drive, so I left the house at 7:50 and got to the test centre just as the news was starting, so I went in once the news had finished. I then had my documents checked, had locked my bag away and read the test centre rules, I was able to begin the test.
This differed from the last time I'd sat a theory test. As it was paper based, and sat in a traditional classroom setting, the test could not begin until all the participants were there. As the new test is computer based and the questions and video clips given to each participant are randomly selected from the database, I didn't have to wait on everyone else or the test start time. Thus, I started the test at 8:20 and was home by about ten past nine, with my pass certificate.
That's not bad going, as there is a practice session before the multiple choice section, to ensure you know what the format is and how to operate the equipment, which should take 15 minutes. There's 40 minutes allocated to sit that part of the test; then a sample video clip, for the hazard perception part, to take you through the way to highlight a potential and developing hazard. This takes about 5 minutes and there is then an option for a 3 minute break (I pushed the wrong button and landed up having to see the sample clip again - doh). Then there's the hazard perception itself; with 14 clips that are 1 minute long. Then, there's the option to answer some new theory test questions and watch a new hazard perception video clip, for possible use with future participants. Finally, there's a "customer satisfaction" questionnaire. I think you can do the sums and see I was quick.
To be fair, at least the DSA can't be criticised for not giving enough time.
So, now it will be on with the new part of getting my bike licence - lessons. They start on the 24th July and my test (yes, for real) is on the 31st. Fingers' crossed, I'll have a bike licence in just over a fortnight...just a wee bit scary, but really quite cool.
Friday 13 July 2007
Theory Test
Early tomorrow morning, (by early I mean 8:30) I will be sitting the theory test for a motorbike. When I sat my car test, I had to sit a theory test. At the time, it consisted of 40 questions, based on the Highway Code, of which you had to get 35 correct to pass. It was done on paper and took just less than 2 weeks to get the results. I only got 1 wrong. Also, there was only 1 test for everyone, bar HGV and PCV learners and if you already had a licence for another type of vehicle, you didn't have to sit one.
Anyway, now the theory now has different categories, depending on the type of vehicle. So, for example, if you have a moped licence and want to get a car licence, there is another test to sit. However, if you wanted to learn to ride a motorbike, you don't need to re-sit.
The theory test now consists of 2 parts. The first part is more or less like the test I sat, but there are only 35 questions, of which 30 must be answered correctly to pass that part of the test. The DSA have also introduced a hazard perception test. This consists of 13 (I think) video clips played, which have, at some point, as developing hazard. During the course of the clip you click on a mouse when you see a potential developing hazard (e.g. pedestrians, cars at junctions, traffic lights etc) and click again when a hazard changes (e.g. a car indicating to pull out does). In order to pass this element of the theory test, a 59% rate is required. Again, see the DSA website for more info.
On Tuesday night I went to my motorbike training school for a hazard perception class, which went okay and made how the whole process of the theory test runs a lot more clear. For extra practice, I have also sat a mock test from a DVD the motorbike training school. Although the quality of that was quite poor (it's not made by the DSA) I still managed to pass. Also, I have re-read the Highway code and sat some mock tests for question part of the test online. So, fingers crossed, all being well, tomorrow I'll have got that part of the road to getting my motorbike licence out of the way.
Fortunately, as the test is now carried out on PCs, I will find out once I've sat the test whether or not I've passed, so no waiting. Watch this space to see how I got on.
Anyway, now the theory now has different categories, depending on the type of vehicle. So, for example, if you have a moped licence and want to get a car licence, there is another test to sit. However, if you wanted to learn to ride a motorbike, you don't need to re-sit.
The theory test now consists of 2 parts. The first part is more or less like the test I sat, but there are only 35 questions, of which 30 must be answered correctly to pass that part of the test. The DSA have also introduced a hazard perception test. This consists of 13 (I think) video clips played, which have, at some point, as developing hazard. During the course of the clip you click on a mouse when you see a potential developing hazard (e.g. pedestrians, cars at junctions, traffic lights etc) and click again when a hazard changes (e.g. a car indicating to pull out does). In order to pass this element of the theory test, a 59% rate is required. Again, see the DSA website for more info.
On Tuesday night I went to my motorbike training school for a hazard perception class, which went okay and made how the whole process of the theory test runs a lot more clear. For extra practice, I have also sat a mock test from a DVD the motorbike training school. Although the quality of that was quite poor (it's not made by the DSA) I still managed to pass. Also, I have re-read the Highway code and sat some mock tests for question part of the test online. So, fingers crossed, all being well, tomorrow I'll have got that part of the road to getting my motorbike licence out of the way.
Fortunately, as the test is now carried out on PCs, I will find out once I've sat the test whether or not I've passed, so no waiting. Watch this space to see how I got on.
Monday 9 July 2007
In other news...
For the next few days, my OH and I will be commuting on the bike as some total idiot of a car driver decided to pull out in front of us. We were driving along a straight road with unrestricted visibility for at least 3/4 mile in each direction. As we were coming in line with an entrance to a pub car park, a guy in an MPV decided not to look and pull out in front of us. Then, when my OH got out of the car to "discuss" matters with the other driver, he had the indignity to ask "Why don't you swerve out of my way?"....err, like you shouldn't have pulled out and my OH (who, as you may have gathered was driving at the time) didn't have time to react. Needless to say, he can wave goodbye to his no-claims discount.
Fortunately, but my OH and I were fine. The car took the impact on the nearside wing, bumper and headlight. At least the car's fixable or replaceable; people aren't. I'm only glad we weren't on the bike, as we would have become road fodder and may have still been in hospital. So please, guys, look properly before pulling out at a junction.
Fortunately, but my OH and I were fine. The car took the impact on the nearside wing, bumper and headlight. At least the car's fixable or replaceable; people aren't. I'm only glad we weren't on the bike, as we would have become road fodder and may have still been in hospital. So please, guys, look properly before pulling out at a junction.
Failed Bombings
Firstly, it's great news to see that Alan Johnstone was released last Wednesday. My OH and I heard when we were stopped for lunch in Fort Augustus. Finally, some good news, especially after the attempted bombings in London and Glasgow.
Talking of the bombings, apparently people the police have "talked to"/arrested in connection with them are medically trained. I would have thought that with a little bit of a science background, they would be able to get a bomb to explode. However, I have a theory about that. These attempted bombings were carried out by Muslim extremists, who wrongly believe they are doing it in the name of God. Now, as far as I am concerned, God gave us freewill to allow us to direct our actions for good or bad purposes. Hence, there has been 9/11, the Madrid bombings and 7/7, not to forget the 21/7 failed attempts, amongst others. Now, although God gave us freewill, I think he's got totally angry with his name, and word, (both in the Bible and Koran) being used in vain, so he stopped the bombs going off, either directly or by making the bombers get the detonation wrong.
Talking of the bombings, apparently people the police have "talked to"/arrested in connection with them are medically trained. I would have thought that with a little bit of a science background, they would be able to get a bomb to explode. However, I have a theory about that. These attempted bombings were carried out by Muslim extremists, who wrongly believe they are doing it in the name of God. Now, as far as I am concerned, God gave us freewill to allow us to direct our actions for good or bad purposes. Hence, there has been 9/11, the Madrid bombings and 7/7, not to forget the 21/7 failed attempts, amongst others. Now, although God gave us freewill, I think he's got totally angry with his name, and word, (both in the Bible and Koran) being used in vain, so he stopped the bombs going off, either directly or by making the bombers get the detonation wrong.
Wednesday 27 June 2007
Free Alan Johnstone
A new link on this blog is calling for the BBC reporter Alan Johnstone to be freed. I, I know with many other people, am appalled how a friend of the Palestinians is being treated. It is almost 3 months since he was taken. While in Palestine, he was the only embedded reported, so could tell the Palestinians' side for the Israel/Palestine. By clicking on the link, you can read more about the campaign, his plight and sign a petition to call for his freedom.
My thoughts and prayers go towards his safe release. I also remember his friends and family in what must be a living hell.
My thoughts and prayers go towards his safe release. I also remember his friends and family in what must be a living hell.
Thursday 21 June 2007
Pillion Seat Part II
My OH and I finally decided to start looking for a ST1300 just before Easter. We knew our budget, condition and extras we'd prefer. Ideally the bike would have ABS and heated front grips. (These are the rubberised bits around the handlebars). Ideally, it would be red, but when buying second hand, colour is often a secondary consideration. We tend never to buy vehicles less than 3 years old as we like someone else to pay the majority of the depreciation.
The first dealership, on the first day of looking had exactly what we wanted:
Within budget;
with ABS and heated grips
and, best of all,
it is red.
Proper, fire engine red!!!
Having done a few hundred miles as a pillion on the 1100, I had discovered it got quite tiring on the back with no support. Also, once we put our lids on the pannier that come standard with the bike, there was no room for jackets if we didn't want to trail them about. So we decided to get a top box to go with the bike too.
My OH also fitted heated grips to the pillion grab rails for me. I've only had to put them on a couple of times (given the time of year), but they make a huge difference...they will come in very handy in the colder months, especially as my OH is planning a New Year's day run with the owners' club!
Over the couple of months we've owned the ST1300, we have done significantly more mileage than the entire period of ownership of the 1100. It's even been used a few times commuting to Edinburgh. For a big bike it filters quite well. I must admit, though, filtering (although I'm at the back) was terrifying the first time I experienced it. Firstly, because when passing buses, lorries etc, they seem closer, due to their size. Secondly, there are car drivers who object to the idea of another vehicle making better progress than they are, so they will attempt to block the bike's progress. On the other hand, there is another type of car driver who will more across to let bikes through. To them, thank you.
This weekend we were planning on going to Boat of Garten (near Aviemore) to see the Ospreys and their chicks. Unfortunately, all 3 chicks have died. Personally, I don't see the adult birds sticking around much longer, when they don't have a reason to stay. Also, the weather forecast isn't looking too promising. Although I accept I will get wet at some point on the bike, I don't see the point at getting soaking on the bike when I have a perfectly good car...we shall see what the weekend brings.
The first dealership, on the first day of looking had exactly what we wanted:
Within budget;
with ABS and heated grips
and, best of all,
it is red.
Proper, fire engine red!!!
Having done a few hundred miles as a pillion on the 1100, I had discovered it got quite tiring on the back with no support. Also, once we put our lids on the pannier that come standard with the bike, there was no room for jackets if we didn't want to trail them about. So we decided to get a top box to go with the bike too.
My OH also fitted heated grips to the pillion grab rails for me. I've only had to put them on a couple of times (given the time of year), but they make a huge difference...they will come in very handy in the colder months, especially as my OH is planning a New Year's day run with the owners' club!
Over the couple of months we've owned the ST1300, we have done significantly more mileage than the entire period of ownership of the 1100. It's even been used a few times commuting to Edinburgh. For a big bike it filters quite well. I must admit, though, filtering (although I'm at the back) was terrifying the first time I experienced it. Firstly, because when passing buses, lorries etc, they seem closer, due to their size. Secondly, there are car drivers who object to the idea of another vehicle making better progress than they are, so they will attempt to block the bike's progress. On the other hand, there is another type of car driver who will more across to let bikes through. To them, thank you.
This weekend we were planning on going to Boat of Garten (near Aviemore) to see the Ospreys and their chicks. Unfortunately, all 3 chicks have died. Personally, I don't see the adult birds sticking around much longer, when they don't have a reason to stay. Also, the weather forecast isn't looking too promising. Although I accept I will get wet at some point on the bike, I don't see the point at getting soaking on the bike when I have a perfectly good car...we shall see what the weekend brings.
Sunday 17 June 2007
Airfield Again
This afternoon, I headed for the local disused airfield again on my 125. My OH commented that I'd improved markedly since last week. I must say I felt much more in control of the bike than I've ever felt - which is great.
Now, the problem with the bike is it is 9 years old with 330 miles on the clock. Most of that mileage has been put on the bike in the last month or 2. As I said in an earlier entry, I acquired the bike from my sister-in-law. She bought it brand new, with the intention of learning to ride. For a variety of reasons, that didn't happen, so for 8 years the bike sat in my OH's parent's back garden, accumulating about 10 miles being pushed around. (They don't have a big garden!). My OH and his Dad spend a lot of time trying to get the engine to fire after so long. Although the engine turned, it wouldn't fire and eventually my OH replaced the carburetor. It fired first time once this was replaced.
As I wanted to learn, and the bike is learner legal, my OH and I came to an agreement that we would use the bike for a year, to get some miles on it. At the end of the year, either I would keep it, giving my sister-in-law full market value for it or, we would sell it and give her the profit. When I first was on the bike, being a newbe, I didn't really know how a bike should handle. My OH over the last year has spent a fair time adjusting various things to improve the bike.
Unfortunately, although this has helped, there are a few things about the bike that I'm not too happy with. Consequently, I've lost confidence in it. However, as I'm now feeling comfortable enough to sign up for proper lessons. I had a discussion with my OH and he thinks we should keep it until I have started lessons, to keep my hand in, and get a better bike I'm happy with at that point. We'll sell the current bike and give my sister-in-law the profits.
So, watch this space for my trails during lessons!!!
Now, the problem with the bike is it is 9 years old with 330 miles on the clock. Most of that mileage has been put on the bike in the last month or 2. As I said in an earlier entry, I acquired the bike from my sister-in-law. She bought it brand new, with the intention of learning to ride. For a variety of reasons, that didn't happen, so for 8 years the bike sat in my OH's parent's back garden, accumulating about 10 miles being pushed around. (They don't have a big garden!). My OH and his Dad spend a lot of time trying to get the engine to fire after so long. Although the engine turned, it wouldn't fire and eventually my OH replaced the carburetor. It fired first time once this was replaced.
As I wanted to learn, and the bike is learner legal, my OH and I came to an agreement that we would use the bike for a year, to get some miles on it. At the end of the year, either I would keep it, giving my sister-in-law full market value for it or, we would sell it and give her the profit. When I first was on the bike, being a newbe, I didn't really know how a bike should handle. My OH over the last year has spent a fair time adjusting various things to improve the bike.
Unfortunately, although this has helped, there are a few things about the bike that I'm not too happy with. Consequently, I've lost confidence in it. However, as I'm now feeling comfortable enough to sign up for proper lessons. I had a discussion with my OH and he thinks we should keep it until I have started lessons, to keep my hand in, and get a better bike I'm happy with at that point. We'll sell the current bike and give my sister-in-law the profits.
So, watch this space for my trails during lessons!!!
Thursday 14 June 2007
The Pillion Seat Part 1
When I first met my husband, he owned a Suzuki Bandit 600. He did take me out on it once, but I was glad I wasn't on it very long - lets just say the pillion seat has got significantly less padding than my backside requires.
About a couple of years ago, my husband decided we needed a more coupley bike. Besides, he wanted a bike that was a bit more a mile muncher than a sportster. Finally, he decided a Honda Pan European (ST1100) would fit the bill:
There's plently storage space;
it can go some when required;
it has a shaft drive - so no more chains to oil, clean and replace
and it has reasonably seats.
To name a few advantages.
So, after a couple of months looking, he finally found an L reg ST1100, which required a little (or so we thought) TLC. The exhaust needed replaced and the fairing was a bit tired, but nothing that a few hours with some T-cut and colour matched wax would sort. After a bit of discussion, which went along the lines of:
My husband: "So, what do you think?"
Me: "Well, I'm not going to be driving it and I don't know much about motorbike engines"
My husband: "You know enough about car ones - it's still an engine. Will you come with me on it? There's no point me getting it if your not going to come out on it with me"
Me: "I have no kit"
My husband: "Er...you can get some"
Me: "Seems a reasonable bike; do you think I'd be able to get a red lid?" (NB a lid is biker speak for a helment)
My husband: No words, but an interesting expression!
So, he said goodbye to the Bandit and hello to the Pan. And the task of restoring it to its former glory began...
Unfortunately, it needed a little more than TLC. After about 2 months, the centre stand broke when my husband was parking it. The way it broke, part of the remainder on the bike was rubbing on the (now new) exhaust, so the bike was, in effect, off the road. This was also the end of October, we don't have a garage and in order to get the remainder of the stand off, my husband had to lie under the bike with a hacksaw...as you can imagine, he didn't do it in a hurry.
Consequently, we didn't use the 1100 Pan very much, as my husband had lost faith in it. Apparently, the condition of the centre stand is a good indication of the condition of the swing arm.
As regards getting me kitted out - I did get my red helmet...
I also got trousers, gloves and a jacket. All of which with so much padding I couldn't bend properly when I got the kit.
About a couple of years ago, my husband decided we needed a more coupley bike. Besides, he wanted a bike that was a bit more a mile muncher than a sportster. Finally, he decided a Honda Pan European (ST1100) would fit the bill:
There's plently storage space;
it can go some when required;
it has a shaft drive - so no more chains to oil, clean and replace
and it has reasonably seats.
To name a few advantages.
So, after a couple of months looking, he finally found an L reg ST1100, which required a little (or so we thought) TLC. The exhaust needed replaced and the fairing was a bit tired, but nothing that a few hours with some T-cut and colour matched wax would sort. After a bit of discussion, which went along the lines of:
My husband: "So, what do you think?"
Me: "Well, I'm not going to be driving it and I don't know much about motorbike engines"
My husband: "You know enough about car ones - it's still an engine. Will you come with me on it? There's no point me getting it if your not going to come out on it with me"
Me: "I have no kit"
My husband: "Er...you can get some"
Me: "Seems a reasonable bike; do you think I'd be able to get a red lid?" (NB a lid is biker speak for a helment)
My husband: No words, but an interesting expression!
So, he said goodbye to the Bandit and hello to the Pan. And the task of restoring it to its former glory began...
Unfortunately, it needed a little more than TLC. After about 2 months, the centre stand broke when my husband was parking it. The way it broke, part of the remainder on the bike was rubbing on the (now new) exhaust, so the bike was, in effect, off the road. This was also the end of October, we don't have a garage and in order to get the remainder of the stand off, my husband had to lie under the bike with a hacksaw...as you can imagine, he didn't do it in a hurry.
Consequently, we didn't use the 1100 Pan very much, as my husband had lost faith in it. Apparently, the condition of the centre stand is a good indication of the condition of the swing arm.
As regards getting me kitted out - I did get my red helmet...
I also got trousers, gloves and a jacket. All of which with so much padding I couldn't bend properly when I got the kit.
Wednesday 13 June 2007
Back in the Saddle
The aim of this blog is to take you through my trails and tribulations for being a trainee biker.
Last year, I did my Compulsory Bike Training. For those of you not in the know, all new motorcyle trainees must complete this. It is a day (or in my case a 1 and a half days) course that teaches the basics of bike control. You have to complete the training before you can ride a motorbike on the road, with L plates and it is only valid for 2 years. It is known by its initials as CBT. See http://www.dsa.gov.uk/ for more info.
For a variety of reasons, mainly fitting a new kitchen at the time, I never got round to getting any practice on the Suzuki GS125 I'd aquired from my sister-in-law. So, last night I finally got back in the saddle. My husband took the bike to a local off-road bit of tarmac and I walked round to meet him. As I hadn't been in the rider's seat for over a year, both he and I were concerned that I'd have to go back to basics. Surprisingly, it went pretty well.
I remembered how to take the bike off its stand;
I remembered where the controls were and how to use them;
I remembered to check my mirrors
and even remembered how to change gear and stop.
However, I didn't remember how to dismount. When I tried to get off the bike, I mananged to lose my balance and let the bike fall on top of me. The way it landed, most the the weight was pressing on my ankle. Fortunately, my husband was there to extract me. Not much harm done - a little bruising to both ankle and pride (probably pride more).
Once I was up again and my husband had established I was okay, he thought I'd better climb back on. Apparently, it's a bit like a horse when you fall off. Well, I got back on and he started talking me through how to get off -
Husband: "Stand up"
Me: "I am standing up"
Husband: "Oh"
Now, I'm about 5'3", with short legs, even for my height. My husband is about a foot taller than me...
It reminded us of the Two Ronnies, when in a sketch, Ronnie Corbet (who is about 5' tall) would be asked to stand up, then the person asking would realise he was! But, I digress...
I did manage to dismount successfully the second time. I was well impressed how the training from last years CBT had stayed with me. I also noticed, I seemed to be more comfortable on the bike, but that's probably down to being on my husband's Honda Pan European more often. The story of the view from the pillion seat will follow shortly.
Last year, I did my Compulsory Bike Training. For those of you not in the know, all new motorcyle trainees must complete this. It is a day (or in my case a 1 and a half days) course that teaches the basics of bike control. You have to complete the training before you can ride a motorbike on the road, with L plates and it is only valid for 2 years. It is known by its initials as CBT. See http://www.dsa.gov.uk/ for more info.
For a variety of reasons, mainly fitting a new kitchen at the time, I never got round to getting any practice on the Suzuki GS125 I'd aquired from my sister-in-law. So, last night I finally got back in the saddle. My husband took the bike to a local off-road bit of tarmac and I walked round to meet him. As I hadn't been in the rider's seat for over a year, both he and I were concerned that I'd have to go back to basics. Surprisingly, it went pretty well.
I remembered how to take the bike off its stand;
I remembered where the controls were and how to use them;
I remembered to check my mirrors
and even remembered how to change gear and stop.
However, I didn't remember how to dismount. When I tried to get off the bike, I mananged to lose my balance and let the bike fall on top of me. The way it landed, most the the weight was pressing on my ankle. Fortunately, my husband was there to extract me. Not much harm done - a little bruising to both ankle and pride (probably pride more).
Once I was up again and my husband had established I was okay, he thought I'd better climb back on. Apparently, it's a bit like a horse when you fall off. Well, I got back on and he started talking me through how to get off -
Husband: "Stand up"
Me: "I am standing up"
Husband: "Oh"
Now, I'm about 5'3", with short legs, even for my height. My husband is about a foot taller than me...
It reminded us of the Two Ronnies, when in a sketch, Ronnie Corbet (who is about 5' tall) would be asked to stand up, then the person asking would realise he was! But, I digress...
I did manage to dismount successfully the second time. I was well impressed how the training from last years CBT had stayed with me. I also noticed, I seemed to be more comfortable on the bike, but that's probably down to being on my husband's Honda Pan European more often. The story of the view from the pillion seat will follow shortly.
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