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Guest Posts
A Collection of interesting contributions from various bikers! If you've got something to add, we're all ears! Contact us via ren@bikesandtravels.com
Distant Memories
Ian Douglas heads a long ways back down memory lane, sharing a few flashbacks that seem oddly familiar. Hard times and/or halcyon days.
Old Boy Blues
Ian Douglas is considering his motorcycling options as encroaching age makes itself felt. Too old? Not yet, but maybe a reconsideration of the bikes he owns and what to do with them.
Time Out
To plan or not to plan, that is the question. Whether 'tis nobler to venture out and see what happens, or to make a little effort before departure. Ian Douglas ponders planning.
Motorcycle Positives
Philosophical as ever Ian Douglas views motorcycling as a good thing for our physical and mental health - subject to a few important caveats.
Ere Dad, I Got It Wrong Again Dad
A brief note from the one and only Bogger. It would appear he has a self control issue when it comes to impulsive purchases of the powered 2 wheeler variety.
Spooky
Ian gets all metaphysical regarding his purchase of a new-to-him motorcycle. Was it fate, or are we actually steering our own mental ships? He never mentions the bike he's purchased though...
Alas Woe Is Me
With a spring in his step and a grin on his face Bogger sets forth for a weekend of fun and frolics with friends. It's just a blummin' good job his friends are incredibly useful and well stocked.
Time For A Change
It seems Ian Douglas has dealt with the Lockdown Blues by brutalising his wallet. Buying (and selling) a motorcycle is far more than a logical, sensible and economic decision. It's emotional.
My Love Of Cubs
Once upon a time motorcycles were an actual means of transport for yoofs, not just a plaything for middle aged folk. Rev. Mick reveals his misspent youth and how this lead to becoming a Cub fan.
Health Benefits
Ian Douglas is musing over both the risks and benefits of motorcycling on a rider's health. Pros and cons, but he wouldn't like to be without his bike.
See More
Reader's Comments
Tony said :-
OK having checked with Ren here are a couple of links that people might like to check out. The wonders of 125cc touring!!
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=866531
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=921846
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Thanks
Advrider is a true goldmine ,.. generally ;-)
www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=866531...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
And the other link:
www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=921846...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
And the other link:
www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=921846...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Came across this link when digging info pon de Keeway TX 125
Don't understand a word they say, as it's in Spanish, about a TX-trip to Africa
But nice pics, and a cool trip for sure, I hear good things about both TX and RKS
In spain, and possible also UK, the TX is available with endure wheels, I wonder
if there is some way getting a pair send to DK, for a fair price, we only got the
motard-version here
www.moto125.cc/f125cc/reportajes/tematico/item/595-aventura-keeway-tx...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Cheers Tony! And Henrik, yes I was looking at the TX yesterday. We have it in both motard and trail style. Hmmmm, tempting.
But when you see these lads in the links having fun and adventures on their almost cruiser type bikes it really doesn't matter what you ride, just get out there!
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Yeah, so far I did only try to sit/stand on the two machines, did feel comfortable on the TX, while I could flip the RKS from side to side, between my my knee's almost :-) (when standing up) might be the Innova one more year, did miss out on the KLE, and busy now with house-renovation, and wedding later this summer. Lot's of small tracks for my MTB also in the forest, it's about using what is available as you point out,.. we prepare also to redraw, full or partly, in a few years, finances getting trimmed + consolidated, most important is time
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Henrik. I reckon the RKS is perhaps too small for yourself. The TX would be the better bike overall. The engine and I'm guessing many other components are the same between the TX and the RKS anyhow.
So you're sorting out your soon to be marital home! It's all a part of life's adventure, hope it all comes together for you both.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Thanks Ren, for the good wishes, adventure for sure, now ready for roof-work :-)
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
And let's not forget this is a MC-blog ,.. so here is the Innova loaded with timber a weekend where the car was not there :-)
As for the TX ,.. yes ,.. guess I should do a test-drive soonest possible
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Innova with timber pic
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Wow! When you said house build I thought you meant a bit of paint, put a shelf up and so on, not a proper rebuild!
That Innova is actually a truck isn't it.
Fab pix, cheers.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
New mono-shock RKS
http://www.keeway.com/detail/RKS
www.keeway.com/detail/RKS...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Oooh that's rather nice. Trouble is we don't get the 200 or the 250 here in the uk. Sharon would love this if they brought it here.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Sharon said :-
Ohhh if only it was available in the UK. I would buy it. Ren is right about me for once :-) I love it.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Actually I like the old model better ,..
Most of all I can't stand this fish-tale exhaust :-(
A question to the old model is if it is possible to rise it a bit, for
larger people feeling just a bit less in a toy-store :-) like f.eks:
1. Adjust/modify the suspension upwords, both front and rear, evt a "riser"
2. Re-position the foot-rest, (mod), for a more opright sit-position
3. Rising the seat very little, evt with spacers
4. Modify the seat making it higher
5. Make a seat-pillow for longer trips, (evt fastened with Velcro),..
6. Choosing tires with higher profile at first change
Yes, yes,.. a bit sick,.. just some brainstorm a late evening
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Henrik - the RKS is a small bike. Of course you can alter it to make it suitable for the bigger rider but is it worth it? Just spend a few more pennies and get the TX which you've mentioned and is already a larger bike.
I think you just like to play with things don't you.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Play with things ,.. I have to answer with both yes and no :-)
TX's not just a few pennies over RKS, (and they just rised the TX prices).
RKS is now 10.000 DKK that's 1.000 GBP
TX is now 14.000 DKK that's 1.400 GBP
Earlyer mentioned problem with the wheel's is also not solved, it's only
available in DK as Super Motard, what I wanted was the Enduro-version, I
can see that it's away from the UK distributers list also, only available
in spain still, (and btw removed from the new Keeway site also).
I have been in Contact with the Danish import today, and they won't help.
Other concerns; weight, tank-capacity & long term parts-supply versus RKS
Anyway not in a hurry either, usually I bye my MC's with a few miles on the clock anyway, they just started to sell them, so in fall maybe. A modified RKS would be, in case, an additional small-trip bike, to supply an KLE 500.
BTW. was visiting the local Suzuki dealer today, the fine new Adress 110 had
arrived, and looked very nice, a good alternative to Honda Innova I guess,..
And also there was a VERY good looking new Inazuma-model, but unfortunately
much more expensive than the basic version
http://www.suzuki-mc.dk/mc/gw250fl5.aspx
www.suzuki-mc.dk/mc/gw250fl5.aspx...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Henrik - it is frustrating when the company no longer supply the model you're after...grrr! Honda no longer have the inimitable C90 on their books and they don't want to bring in the funky looking Cross Cub. Oh my I'd love them to bring that machine to the UK!
The Suzuki is a great bike, the only downside is the weight. As for the price yeah it's more expensive than the unfaired base model but it's still a good price.
www.visordown.com/motorcycle-news-new-bikes/new-honda-cub/24076.html...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Wow, that cross-cub is funky indeed, and very interesting !!!
While likely thought as kinda pizza/delivery/currier-bike I
can see an potential interesting basic for a little travel-
bike with some unique luggage-solutions, in front as well,..
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Evt import it later if it's available in another EU country, (maybe other as well), that should be possible whitin the rules, with no options for the system to sabotage your plans, other than perhaps a smaller tax that becomes even smaller by age, lot of traffic from germany to denmark like this
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Looking around the internet I can't find anyone who's selling these in Europe so far. There's talk of some guy actually starting an import business but that seems a long way off yet. Damn you Honda!
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Hyosung, how are they ? and how about availability and prices on spareparts ?
Looks nice for the price, f.eks. a 250 much cheaper than Inazuma
www.hyosung.dk/modeller/8001039.htm...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Henrik. Can't say as I know much about the Hyosung - except that somehow, someway, they seem to be connected to Suzuki...?
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Yes, a certain connection to Suzuki back in the days, no
longer so
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Possible will look at a 2008 Hyosung XRX 125 next sunday, will be half price compared to Keeway TX, around 15 kg less, a little more HP, and real enduro wheels. It shoult be close to suzuki rd 125
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Looks smart Henrik. Do you know if the engine is based on the Suzuki GN engine like most of the Chinese bikes?
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
It's cut with the same knife, somehow, but as usual there is diffrencies, to the degree that I don't thing one single part will be directly compatible !!
My Haynes "Chinese 125 Motorcycles" list it as a "applicable" model in the
long list over models being covered in the book, that being true or not :-)
I think that DR 125 should be the basis, but maybe its the same as GN 125 ?
One difference I see is that Hyosung uses a little oil-cooler, and I don't think that GN 125 does, (Hyosung uses oil-cooler on their 250 v-twins also)
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Oh it all gets very complicated! Sharon's Keeway is ALMOST the same as the Pulse engines for example but we know they are not actually the same. I've had another look at the Keeway TX...tempting.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
The TX is very heavy unfortunately, even in chineese context, kills the fun
About clones, we got this "Generic Worx 125" in DK, identical to the Keeway RKS, the price is around 1600 GBP where the RKS is onlu around 1000 GBP.
But then again, the cheap RKS is also the one with complete set of spareparts at stock locally always LOL :-) guess it takes a IQ below 70 to jump on the Generic-version, unbelievable, but true,..
npmotor.dk/shop/index.php?cPath=30_204...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
You could eventually check out some TX-alternatives, like said the XTX is around 15 kg less, (and I intend to reduce that further in case I get it),
been looking carefully after documentation and parts also, its actually possible to dig up a real genuine Repair Manual/Handbook for the Hyosungs, something I have never seen on the Keeway's or other Chineese brands, maybe becourse it simply doesn't exist ;-) you see the actual XTX in question here, it will be around 750 GBP, and around 100 GBP in insurance pr year,
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Typo: "XTX" should have been "XRX" sorry
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Got it, on the wet-weight I stand a bit corrected, the 2008 XRX is 128 kg, where the TX is 147 !!!! so the span is actually 19 Kg and not 15 Kg. Then comes a moderate reduction where XRX is more fit for modifications I guess.
Sum: 737 GBP ,. plates and insurance fixed ,. one key missing but a blank
one from ebay, korea, is hitting me in two weeks, to be cut out nearby,..
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Woohoo! New bike! I shall of course be expecting a full and comprehensive review in my email a month or so after your first ride. And updates.
Glad to hear you've finally sorted it all out. Are there any trips planned?
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
No exact plans, wedding in two mounths you know,
and ongoing house-project where we need to finish the roof the sooner the better, the little enduro bike is for our house in the Swedish woods obviously, small joy-rides on the narrow tracks foremost I guess, but small over-night trips a little further away in the woods are possible as well in a radius of around 100 km from our base, last year I got one of those extreme light tents + madras, nice way to explore the nearby nature a little deeper I guess, I will see if I can write something as soon as it makes sense, and time alows :-)
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Better not say to much, as there would be nothing to write about later ;-) but the bike feel's well in its new home, done first 60 km, 30 km with
pillon, and just got home from 30 km solo dirt-track race in the woods, all distance with a slightly hanging front-brake, (that's slowly getting better), average consumption 31,4 km/l under these conditions, lot's of things to say, almost all positive so far, but I will keep it to myself LOL,
perfect weekend, what a toy,..
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Glad you're enjoying the bike Henrik. Now look after it, I might want a go if I sort oit a trip to your place. Now stop making me jealous.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Glad you're enjoying the bike Henrik. Now look after it, I might want a go if I sort oit a trip to your place. Now stop making me jealous.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Ren, you just drop by ;-) a litte question, this "flex-thing" you used to repair your exhaust, what was the exact name to feed google ? and how would you describe the weight compared to normal stainless front-pibe material ? (for evt. later KLE 500 mod)
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Henrik. Got the tube of ebay - using the search "Flexible stainless steel exhaust", follow the link. As for weight, I have no idea at all. I'm sure it won't make ANY difference on your KLE 500 :)
www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1311.R1.TR2.TRC0.A0.H...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Thanks, weight matters, in case you want to use several feets to double-feed a fancy solution like this KTM ;-) KLE standard system is extremely heavy, so on a old bike project, where the system is often renewed anyway, why not shot two flyes on one shot. (just research).
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
One rear indicator is broken on the XRX, so I am already doing tale-mods, so first weight reduction soon a reality, and getting rid of the old bulp-based light and indicators, and maybe half a kilo of plastic
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Henrik - I think you just like to tinker with your bikes when you should be getting on with the work of finishing your house!
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
You are absolutely right, if not for one little thing, an old wodden house will never be finished :-) anyway, another great day in the woods, on the new XRX, finding tracks in the wilderness, enjoying our nature, see pic
Then I found this little article about a student from from South Korea traveling 25000 km on hes little RX125SM, similar to mine, just motard wheels,... another positive 125ccm travel-story hereby shared
eng.krmotors.com/customer/?Page=sub02...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Link to the article is tricking me, but its article nr 9 under news, it appears its just a jpeg clued to another url, I try to attach the jpeg also
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Cheers Henrik. That's an excellent article and it is good to read that not all overlanders are filled with confidence, bravado and heroism. This guy just did what he could and got out there and did it. Inspiring.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ben said :-
Henrik,
Re:-
Henrik said :-
Came across this link when digging info pon de Keeway TX 125
www.moto125.cc/f125cc/reportajes/tematico/item/595-aventura-keeway-tx ...
If you right click on the article, you should be able to translate it
Regards
Ben
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Another impressing KLE-project :-)
Notice the nose melded on the nose from an old Piaggio NRG
From KLE 500 FB-group more on link:
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Link again
www.trailaventura.pt/viewtopic.php?f=83&t=21382...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Ooooof! Sweet bike. Looking at the pictures from the link I wonder how much he spent? There's a lot of work gone into that machine. I wonder if you'll do the same for yours Henrik?
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Nah, not going this far, and also even though its a masterpiece its so far on the styling and finish he rules. I got limited time, skills, and funds, and focus this winter only on getting it ready for next year, right now work with luggage systems and auxiliary tanks, tank-capacity versus consumption is terrible, (160-200 km only). On the longer run comes work with engine, exhaust, weight, plus suspension. Styling will be last. Right now practice welding every tuesday, some nice people help me get startet at their place, damm, it takes a lot of practice, but slowly improves :-)
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Welding is something I would like to master. I can make bird poop or chewing gum but the 2 pieces of metal are not actually joined...
I understand Henrik. You're a busy chap with a lot going on and a lot more plans beside. I personally even if I had the time and the money would not be able to produce high quality work like that bike. I'm a bodger, a fixer-upper and a hack. I'm no good at pretty and nice or finesse.
To be honest I'd rather be riding than spending an age making something look pretty. to each his own though, I know a lot of bikers love crafting and creating, perhaps even more so than riding. I'f I'd created a beautiful motorcycle I'd be scared to ride it in case I smashed it up.
Think you need to work on a steady hand to smooth out those welds :)
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Peet said :-
A nice very hot sunny Saterday on my Honda Flush WH125-6. 387 kilometers.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Peet. You're as bad as Henrik for posting up pictures to make me all jealous! That is one long straight and empty road right there. Where is it?
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Peet said :-
Hi Ren
It is between Prieska and Britstown, Northern Cape, South Africa.
Here is a link on google maps that indicate the trip route that I did on Saterday.
You will find between Prieska and Britstown on Prieska's side two thirds of the distance (almost 90 kilometers or 56 miles) only makes about one small bent if you look at the map.
Kind regards
Peet
https://www.google.co.za/maps/dir/22+Alida+St,+De+Aar,+7000/Prieska/22+Alida+St,+De+Aar,+7000/@-30.1663436,22.8100502,9z/am=t/data=!3m1!4b1!4m20!4m19!1m5!1m1!1s0x1e83fb9bc72058cf:0x3da03312487a674d!2m2!1d24.0091134!2d-30.6515526!1m5!1m1!1s0x1e82ac28aa8a6237:0x80d9645a44af8a02!2m2!1d22.739048!2d-29.7069446!1m5!1m1!1s0x1e83fb9bc72058cf:0x3da03312487a674d!2m2!1d24.0091134!2d-30.6515526!3e0
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
I forget how big Africa is, just looking at that map your big trip is just a short hop inside Africa. The sense of scale is all lost when you live on an Island like the UK. 2 questions, is it always dry and are there plenty of fuel stations for the dinky tank in the Flush?
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Peet said :-
Hi Ren
The Northern Cape is almost like semi desert so yes most of the time it is quite dry. The average rainfall is in the region of 200mm per year with temperatures ranging from -17 to 50 degrees celcius. When it rains it is usely heavy showers.
On a normal day I can do 120 miles on a tank of 3 liters putting all places within the boarders of South Africa within reach without running out of fuel. On Saterday I filled up in Prieska on my way back and drove 116.25 miles to get home and then the tank took 2.23 liters of fuel to be filled.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Peet said :-
Some long ago traveling with my X Honda anf look a-like, Chinese Vuka XL 110, to some remote border crossing village on the border of South Africa and Namibia, Onseepkans.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hey Peet. I do love a dusty long gravel track. There's a road like that near here on the way to Southport. Ours is about 2 miles long, that looks like it could go on forever. As it's cold, wet and thoroughly miserable here right now your picture makes me wish I was somewhere warm, dry and dusty. I bet you're wishing you were somewhere cooler?
Next time include a picture of yourself, it'd be great to put a face to the name.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Just wanted to share this little laugh, (see link)
Maybe an idea to adopt for the two of you, pepping up BAT a little :-)
(as far as I remember you had something to do with music, looooong ago?)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4OnXR708cQ...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
HENRIK!! What are you trying to do - traumatise us? That was funny but it was also awful. And believe me if we let Sharon sing on a video people would be running away in their thousands.
Cheers for that Henrik, you made me laugh.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Peet said :-
Here I am with my wife, 4 daughters, 1 son, 2 son inlaws and one grandaughter, hope this help.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Peet said :-
That gravel road with the yellow bike is 65 miles, I once did a 65 mile gravel road trip with my Honda in the snow and rain and mud and hope this is not what you have to experience in the UK for it was not at all what I'm used to.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
65 miles...of gravel...Sheez, England is so small... I never thought you'd get snow though, are you high up?
As for you and the family it's great to put a face to the name and to see your clan. You've gotten your hands full there! Thanks Peet.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
LOL ,.. funny and awfull indeed :-)
Sharon and Zanger Rinus ,.. a study in bad taste
"Met Sharon in een luchtballon"
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfKRlxAduwA...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Deborah was her actual name it seems ,.. and not Sharon ,.. or Romana
Interview ,... for a moment I thought they were actors ,... seems not :-)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pt_vXBOoY9U...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
When removing a spark-plug from a very deep and almost "hidden" position, how do you best make sure that no dirt will fall down into the cylinder ?
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ian Soady said :-
The only way I know of is to use an airline to blow any loose stuff away before starting the job. Not perfect though.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
I don't own a compressor or airline. Usually I clean around with a toothbrush and paraffin then hose the area down as hard as I can. Then of course you have to leave it to dry for a while...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ian Soady said :-
You can always pop along to your local tyre emporium. You'll never get right down beside a tight fitting plug cap with a toothbrush. Apart from which the paraffin makes your teeth go a funny colour.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Oh very funny Ian...please...no more. I can't take any more.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Thanks Ian/Ren !!!
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Peet said :-
Hi Ren
Here is the highest pass I had to cross so far and where it snow almost every year, about 120 miles from where I stay but a totally different scenery.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Almost 6,000 feet! Bet that makes your ears pop. It looks lovely...now go up in winter when it's covered in snow. Excellent shot Pete.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Peet said :-
Me and my granddaughter taking an 80 kilometer drive on my daughters Airblade.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Peet. Is it always sunny in South Africa? And who was driving, you or your granddaughter?
16/12/2015 16:07:44 UTC
Peet said :-
Hi Ren
Not always sunny but mostly sunny.
Though she was sitting infront I was still doing the driving!
Here is a photo taken just the following day of our little town while hiking with my granddaughter, it shows just how sunny it gets, not a cloud in site.
20/12/2015 15:07:01 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
It's hard to imagine such a lovely day in this grey and wet weather we're enduring here in the UK right now. That said this Sunday was clear and bright if a little windy.
Merry Christmas Peet!
22/12/2015 10:30:26 UTC
Peet said :-
What is the highest miles that someone has put on a 125cc or smaller bike, step-thru or scooter that anyone know off? I've seen a video of a Peugeot Speedfight 100cc that is on 100 000 miles and the owner is aiming for 160 000 miles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6toyW7nFm4g
05/01/2016 08:36:30 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Here's me getting all smug about 48,000 miles on the CBF 125 and some dude in Germany has put double that onto a goddam French scooter! I am an amateur I tell ya.
I think this might become a post on the blog somewhere Peet - "Show Us Ya Miles".
05/01/2016 09:26:23 UTC
Peet said :-
Hi Ren
That sounds like a great idea and I recken it will inspire many or atleast me to put some high mileage on a small engine!!!
06/01/2016 04:00:55 UTC
Peet said :-
Hi Ren
I only managed to do 13 000 miles in 4 years but that little Peugeot inspired me not only to play catch-up but to see if I can't pass his aim of 125 000 miles. On 48 000 miles you are, just like the Peugeot and its owner, a legend in my eyes and I wonder if there is maybe someone that has done more on a 125cc or smaller.
06/01/2016 08:02:52 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Legend! In my own time too huh? Hardly, I'm just too tight to use a car that's all. Do remember it is not actually a competition nor does riding big miles make you a big man. There's no point doing it if you ain't enjoying it. The guy on the Peugeot seems t be having fun though.
06/01/2016 14:54:38 UTC
Peet said :-
Hi Ren
Yes very true.
I truly enjoy riding my little step-thru but to be honest if I only use it to get from A to B I would struggle to do more than 600 miles per year. Then also if it was only about adding miles I would rather get something that can cover some miles for where I live a proper bike can easily cover 250 miles in two hours and to drive flat out the whole time with my 125cc also just to have the trip counter ticking over faster will not give me an average of 173 miles to the gallon and will still only amount to about 100 miles in two hours.
So I would like to see my bike and I do some serious high mileage while still breaking economy records for it gives me great pleasure doing it and looking at it financially it gives a poor man the privilege of seeing the world on a very limited budget. So I work, pay the bills and then hunt down the miles as often as I can but looking at my mileage it is obvious either the income is too low or the bills too high or the opportunities not nearly as many as I would like them to be, but I often find myself scheming how to put more miles on my 125cc and 600 000 miles often comes to mind while scheming. Then maybe if I rode more and schemed less my little 125cc would be able to show its potential and capabilities even more and transport me to more interesting and beautiful places.
So I'm a high mileage, low budget, economy type of person seeing very little need to use 1.2 ton of machinery to move 0.1 ton of flesh but if it was only about things making sense I could just stay home and be satisfied with the adventure to be had from watching Discovery channel, so there must be some value to be harvested while crawling along on a 125cc and this is a very difficult thing to explain and can only be fully understood by those doing it. A 125cc possess the power to take away many a lame excuse for having one's own adventure. So every time I'm blessed with the opportunity to take a drive I'm having an adventure while gathering some memories for when I can drive no more.
07/01/2016 08:57:37 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hey Peet. We're singing from the same song sheet you and I. Yes...yes if I were a rich man I'd have a big fancy super touring off road thing but I'm too lazy to be rich. I prefer enjoying my days not working too hard and being a mean miser with my pennies.
There is also a satisfaction to be had by racking up the miles on a small bike. There's more of a challenge in taking a sub 200cc machine to far off places as it can be too easy on a big bike. To go a long way on a plane is easy, to go a long way on foot is an achievement.
I've added a big miles page. I hope that inspires you to get out there and see more of your country. I keep on hearing just how beautiful the place is.
08/01/2016 10:53:18 UTC
Henrik said :-
Harley never appealed to me at all, all though I love their engines,..
Now I came across this Carducci Dual-Sport ,.. WHAT a beauty !!!
If I was ever to have a over-veighty socalled "duak-sports" this should be the one
http://carduccidualsport.com/content/14-sc3-adventure
www.youtube.com/watch?v=98WZFvAvN0g...
24/01/2016 10:28:54 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Wow! A harley engined BIG trailie, now there's a thing. I once came across an "adventure" 883 in the flesh which was a standard bike with jacked suspension and knobbly tyres, that's all. The owner was totally mad and claimed off road it was "acceptable".
It seems a shame this bike isn't in production. I reckon they's sell even if they cost over £20,000, because the top line production BMW's are close to that now. Good find Henrik.
25/01/2016 12:00:47 UTC
Ian Soady said :-
The Buell Ulysses was an attempt in that direction although I don't think it had a huge following.
25/01/2016 13:59:34 UTC
Peet said :-
Came across this delightfull talk from a wonderfull english lady on small bike travel and truly enjoyed it a lot. I guess you guys have heard about her and her adventures but I share anyways.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=QucYuQx7jnA...
25/01/2016 19:41:58 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Another trailie Harley, although the Buell looks a little less serious than the Carducci. I bet they are both phenomenally expensive though. Cheers Ian.
Peet - that's an inspiring video and despite her claims she's a far braver lady than I. I'm connected to Lois via facebook and she is something of a character and legend in her own way. I am still at the stage she was when she first set out, over prepared and scared of letting go. I wonder if I could ever grow like she has.
26/01/2016 07:28:24 UTC
Henrik said :-
Every now and then a African Twin project pops up, not the same, but same corner, and nice bike also !!!
26/01/2016 08:24:12 UTC
Ian Soady said :-
Coincidentally, I had a small pile of motorcycle travel books at Xmas and Lois's tale of a trip through the Americas on a Serow was one. I found it absolutely excellent - like Ted Simon, she really conveyed the feeling of what it was like and how she felt rather than the gung-ho attitudes of some other travellers.
Another book I really enjoyed was One Man Caravan by Robert Fulton - a trip on a Douglas to India in the early 30s. One I wasn't impressed by was India: The Shimmering Dream by Max Reisch.
I suspect the difference was partly that the latter was the story of a trip by 2 people rather than one on their own and perhaps because of that there was much less connection with local people. As the author was an Austrian and the book was written in the late 30s there was also more than a whiff of attitudes which I found distasteful.
26/01/2016 10:10:14 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi guys. It seems this page has become a "general comments" page. I never thought folks would just want to chat casually - it's great! So I've created a "Chit-Chat" page which can be accessed from the links on the top left. This will allow me to develop code that will hopefully be more suitable in the future.
Thanks peeps
www.bikesandtravels.com/chit-chat.aspx...
26/01/2016 16:14:24 UTC
Henrik said :-
Ren, I imidiately had to think about you, (for some reason), maybe an idea, DIY, MacGyver style,...
Unfortunately I have not yet the story behind the pic ,.. but anyway ,.. not far from a standard BMW :-)
25/08/2017 08:18:29 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
That's probably a bit much even for me Henrik! I do have some curious plans but whether or not they come to fruition is another thing.
25/08/2017 09:37:22 UTC
Henrik said :-
So many fake-tigers around ,.. this one seems to be real
www.advpulse.com/adv-bikes/triumph-tiger-tramontana/...
24/09/2017 12:14:50 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
You fancy doing a bit of desert rallying Henrik? That thing looks damn tall I don't think my feet would touch the floor.
25/09/2017 06:33:30 UTC
Henrik said :-
Nahh, no deserts for me,... just nice to see a tiger that is somehow a real tiger
25/09/2017 11:37:15 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
It looks very impressive, but then it's hardly standard spec any more. Perhaps I should fully rally prep my CBF125, that could be funny.
25/09/2017 14:56:05 UTC
Problemchild said :-
Hi all, I live in South Africa on a small town named Cradock. I came across this post after searching stuff for the Honda flush wh125-6. Cam anyone tell me if there has been anyone who customised one of these bikes yet ? I'm busy with one changing it to a chopper based on ghost rider's pinhead and easy rider captain America chopper
22/11/2018 13:03:46 UTC
bikersindia said :-
How Have Motorbike Feature Designs Changed Over The Years?
Just visualize for a moment. .....
Thanks BikersIndia. Your site looks interesting and worthwhile but if you wish to post links on Bikes And Travels contact ren@bikesandtravels.com
03/02/2019 19:46:12 UTC
Rev. Mick! said :-
Henrik,
Cub/Innova in Namibia? I've always ways wanted to climb Spitzkopt. Fly into Windhoek hire a Cub? Then off. Would that work?
02/07/2021 00:21:00 UTC
said :-
10/05/2024 04:11:48 UTC
Rev. Mick! said :-
There’s That Space Inside a Helmet.
I was reading an article recently, it must be said following a somewhat obscure rabbit hole journey.
This article was about “Rawdogging”, (No tittering in the cheap seats. Fnar Fnar!).
The Rawdogging idea is that you sit on a very long flight or other transport journey and have no artificial sensory input. That means no phone, no music, no movies, no reading, you sit in your seat and let the journey unfold in front of you. The tenet of the article was that to do so was a test of endurance, to undergo such suffering. Like a Guantanamo Bay resident with the bag on the head.
As a man who likes to ride motorcycles on long journeys I realised that one of the things that engages me about these journeys is that lack of artificial stimuli. Even the distraction of external chatter is drowned out by the constant almost white noise combination of passing air and engine noise. The later influenced somewhat by mechanics of bike and quality of maintainance.
So as motorcyclists we spend long periods of time in that space inside the helmet.
I find for me this one of the aspects of long motorcycle journeys that I look forward to. The long periods of no thoughts what so ever just what is occurring in the journey.
I notice now that you can buy sound systems for inside your helmet, even on some big American tourers a screen for the back seat passenger, screens on dashboards with GPS mapping is becoming more common.
As I’ve mentioned in my own adventures I have been known to put a single ear Bud in for Molly Google to whisper me in on my approach.
However I would not be drawn to full entertainment systems as my journeys would lose part of their unique joys.
I have a good friend and fellow rider who suffers from some mental health problems. He was relating how when the black dog is prowling around extended periods in the saddle is a great relief to him. To move thoughtlessly with only the ritual of control of the bike on the road. This stops him slipping into negative thought patterns. This would suggest to me, for some a therapeutic effect.
It is only in a relatively short period of the overall time of human existence the possibility of constant engagement and entertainment has existed. There is much research currently which shows that human attention span is falling and this may be due to constant artificial stimulation.
Could it be that the quiet space with in our helmets has become a dojo of peaceful contemplation.
07/08/2024 14:16:31 UTC
Ian Soady¹ said :-
Interesting, it's what I have recently heard called mindfulness. I'd always dismissed that as a bit of new age tosh but read an article saying that any activity that demands total concentration - and I'd include riding a bike in that - can improve mental health as it draws your attention away from whatever may be bothering you.
I feel the same when in the garage trying to sort out a knotty carburation problem (it's ignition of course) or using the lathe to make a tricky component.
07/08/2024 15:31:18 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
Now I never ride with music or other such interruption. I don't drive a car that often and when I do I now find I can't have the radio on, it's too distracting. However...
When you're riding is your mind totally, entirely, and completely focused on the act or motorcycling? Yes I need to be alert and awake to the dangers of the roads but save for the complex city streets I have time to ponder what's for tea, to admire that snazzy new car, to notice how the seasons change, or how that house is falling into disrepair.
For myself the "Zen" like moment is the fact I'm doing something (riding) while doing nothing (sitting fairly still on a metal and rubber and plastic wobbly machine). For myself it's the space to think without being able to get too deep into those thoughts as the bike and the road requires my attention too. For myself it's the movement, much like a baby in a rocking chair there's something soothing and calming about the way a bike swings from left to right as well as shakes across the road surface.
08/08/2024 08:19:45 UTC
Rev. Mick! said :-
That integrated absorption when riding a motorcycle. There is no thought of “I will now change into 3rd” or “I will shift my body weight 24% forward and to the right”. You just do that which is needed as it is needed.
Thoughts of tea, snazzy cars, lovely looking fellow humans, sex, drugs and Rock and Roll do seem to come unbidden into that space. They also fade away if you pay them no focus. Sort of like clouds they drift by with no real substance.
There is a return to the constant in the moment reality of the you bike moving.
This is seems to me strikingly similar to Buddhist meditation descriptions especially Zen.
Maybe our “Rawdogging” (I know all my “Viz” comic humour is straining at the leash) is a positive. Rather than an unreasonable hardship to be avoided as soon as technology allows. With in helmet music, in visor displays, calls while riding, sat nav mapping screens, passenger intercoms and movies for the pillion. We should be recognising the benefits that space is giving us and try and preserve and enhance it as a good.
08/08/2024 09:20:34 UTC
Rev. Mick! said :-
That integrated absorption when riding a motorcycle. There is no thought of “I will now change into 3rd” or “I will shift my body weight 24% forward and to the right”. You just do that which is needed as it is needed.
Thoughts of tea, snazzy cars, lovely looking fellow humans, sex, drugs and Rock and Roll do seem to come unbidden into that space. They also fade away if you pay them no focus. Sort of like clouds they drift by with no real substance.
There is a return to the constant in the moment reality of the you bike moving.
This is seems to me strikingly similar to Buddhist meditation descriptions especially Zen.
Maybe our “Rawdogging” (I know all my “Viz” comic humour is straining at the leash) is a positive. Rather than an unreasonable hardship to be avoided as soon as technology allows. With in helmet music, in visor displays, calls while riding, sat nav mapping screens, passenger intercoms and movies for the pillion. We should be recognising the benefits that space is giving us and try and preserve and enhance it as a good.
08/08/2024 09:24:43 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
Firstly, the thought of tea, never, never, fades away. I came over a bit Paisley then, Never, Never!
Secondly, when did we become the last outpost of Buddha Weekly, yes it's a thing. Isn't everything.
I'll put the kettle on.
Upt.
Ed, that piccie was actually two, then Google asked "would you like us to merge images"? To which I replied, "go on then me o'd mucka".
https://buddhaweekly.com/buddha-weekly/#google_vignette...
08/08/2024 11:50:00 UTC
Rev. Mick! said :-
I can’t find the motorcycle section in Buddha Weekly.
We should start one.
09/08/2024 00:39:50 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
No indeed Mick, it seems to be an unforgivable omission. Especially when a motorcyclist saw the face of Jesus in a tub of margarine. He was heard to utter "I can't believe it's not Buddha."
I'm here all week, drum roll, symbols.
I know, I know.
Pffffffftttttt.
Do you think we've achieved thread creep yet. Meh.
09/08/2024 13:00:16 UTC
Rev. Mick! said :-
I shall on deities in spreads in my helmet space as I Rawdog (is it a verb?) along.
The white noise volume mah have to increase as I have bought a stainless steel exhaust for the Innova. Not for any increase in per dormancy rather to avoid rust. I live so close to the Atlantic Ocean that everything rusts very quickly. Local welder visiting this weekend to see if he can cut and reeled to make it low level rather than high level, to allow of panniers. So I expect a more throaty roar.
I have also just bought a pair of cast alloy Honda Wave wheels on eBay. They apparently are a direct fit. These have now ended up at my sisters in Bath. The quotes from couriers to deliver to the West of Ireland are far far in excess of the air fare to visit her in person. Not sure how to go.
Wonder if I just got them to Dublin might be cheaper to collect there.
Do any of our community have any ideas or experience?
10/08/2024 08:55:38 UTC
Rev. Mick! said :-
Should have read that before pressing submit a few errors there hope you get the gist.
Have also re-joined The C90Club.co.uk a venerable institution which caters for my slightly niche proclivities.
Also have been in contact with a guy in Ghana on small bike touring in Ghana, Benin and Togo. Now that does look like it would be a real off the map trip.
10/08/2024 09:04:31 UTC
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