Well this is really embarrassing but here goes. In 2013 I decided to get back into biking after a 38 year gap. I'd just had an abdomen operation and wasn't allowed to even drive a car for some time. I bought a 1995 Honda CBR600F off Ebay and the seller rode it to my house. My last bike had been a Suzuki T250 Hustler, about 90mph ? This beastie was supposed to do 155 mph. I was a bit worried. Come September 2013, wounds healed, it was time. Out came the bike, gear donned, wife having kittens by the litter load, off I went. First trip round the block I was passed by two cyclists (beware cracked ribs). Next few trips I visited a new industrial estate near Rochdale. It had new roads, roundabouts and was deserted. BIG problem. The bike wouldn't go round bends. Kept going wide. Wasn't how I remembered bends, they were natural. I couldn't understand it. Then one day I looked at the front wheel, the tyre looked a little deflated. Silly boy, never done a basic life saving check. 18 psi would you believe in the front ? It certainly went round bends better after that day ! So my tips:- Always do the basic checks, you might have a slow puncture. Check the tread also, I found a m4 cap head bolt embedded in the rear tyre of my Suzuki Bandit once. If you can find an industrial estate that is deserted at week end, it could be a good place to practice.
I was told BLT each time you ride. Brakes, lights, tyres. Then regular SOCS checks. Steering, oil, chain, suspension.
Thanks for that. I think like you i'll be biking alone for a while to find my feet at my own pace with no pressure. Will try to choose quiet times to start with . Your bike looks great in the pic. My Bonnie should be tame in comparison.
andypandy - I live in Cornwall, so at this time of year should be able to find a few nice quiet roads away from traffic. Will have to get used to bends and hills quickly though as we have our fair share down here
Fantastic! You will enjoy it - where else can you chase a police bike along a dual carriageway and not get into trouble!
