First Bike - possibly Transalp

[digitalcaptive]

Filipa it might be worth you taking a drive over to Midland superbikes at Market Harborough they have hundreds of bikes and you'll be able to sit on a few and get a feel for them

[Yeti]

......Midland superbikes at Market Harborough they have hundreds of bikes ......

Wow, it's on the same page of the map as Corby and he has bikes left??? must have good security?!

I spent many a sunny day sat in my crane watching the oiks tear around the parks on nicked bikes, no helmets, on the pavements, and the most I saw was 3-up! charming little darlings. I never saw them on mine though!! wish I had they would be dangling from the end of the jib with zip ties and gaffa tape!

[digitalcaptive]

Corby and he has bikes left???

He's got three really "friendly" if you know what I mean, Rottweillers

The key in Corby is keep moving, the thieves are so lazy the can't be bothered to chase you

[trophydave]

Filipa,I am just up the A46 from Leicester.You are welcome to come and have a look at my 600 Alp if you want.I cannot make my mind up if I want to sell it or not but you could try it for size.

[RodYork]

I would be tempted to pick a Honda CB500 for a year after passing your test Philipa (positive talking)- When you drop your bike- you don't want all the expense of plastics etc- the CB500 parts are quite inexpensive, low insurance and not too heavy. It's wise to make your mistakes on a banger & then upgrade to a bike you would really like. If the Transalp of your dreams has protection (Crash bars & panniers)- then job sorted!

Good luck with the CBT & save some ££ for quality clothing & a helmet. Before the season starts (May>Oct) is a great time to get gear cheaper- (let ebay be your friend..but not for the helmet)!.Do keep us updated.

[Filipa]

Hi guys,

So...it's been a while but only now managed to do my CBT. I went for it this morning. I haven´t failed, but I haven't passed either. They have told me that I need an extra 3h to iron out a few things.

But I must say, it is awesome to drive a motorbike...and a bit scary!!!
I'm trying to book the 3h next saturday.

So, does anyone have a realistic idea of how long it could take from saturday until having the full direct access license?

And I'm also not sure if I should stick to a 125 or if I should go for a bigger one. Some people tell me I'd be fine with a 125 to drive 32miles return to work everyday. Others tell me I'll get fed up really quickly...

I went to Market Harborough's superbikes store a while back to sit down in a transalp and they seem pretty comfortable..also heavy...

I was just wondering if anyone has a few pointers. I've had a search alert from Ebay for about a month now so i've been checking the transalp bikes going through there. let's hope i can get a good one for around £1500.
Also if you know anywhere else to look, ideas are welcome.

Cheers and have a great weekend,
Flips

[Filipa]

Hey Trophy Dave....

Sorry, I've only just seen your reply.
Are you still selling? It would be grand to come and have a look and even talk to someone about bikes.
I'm based in Leicester.
Not sure if I can send you an e-mail from here but let me know

[Sharribee]

Filipa it will depend on how you are feellng as to how quickly you pass your full test. I did my direct access one month then did some lessons and the following year did 7 direct access lessons before I sat my test. Failed that one (and the next) in total I guess it took me about 3 months from starting the direct access with about 12 lessons.

A 125 would be OK, I travel 30 miles each way to work and to be honest I wouldn't fancy it on a 125 but most of my route is motorway and main roads.

I found the bigger bikes easier to ride than the 125's as well, they appeared better ballanced with better brakes, stearing etc etc

Once you've done your CBT go for a taster on a bigger bike to see how you feel with your instructor

[Filipa]

Hey RodYork,

again, only saw your reply now...
Cheers for your message...So a Honda CB500 hey?
I guess I could look into it

...updates on my previous post
Thank you

[Filipa]

Hey Sharribee

Cheers for your feedback. Yes, the instructor today said the same thing. That a bigger bike would be easier to ride. To be fair, I have a feeling I would prefer it.

3 months!!! really?? gosh, I've been way too optimistic.
I thought to have the theory this month, direct access early next month and get cracking...

i better re-structure my plan then

Thank you