tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78669708851357113952024-03-13T12:16:54.945+00:00Caroline Ash on BikesCaroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.comBlogger9125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7866970885135711395.post-37658767867898281022015-01-21T21:16:00.001+00:002015-01-21T21:16:11.626+00:00I can't believe it, it is January again. Weather is appalling. I am lying in bed, 4 on the morning and the rain is lashing at my bedroom window trying to get in! The wind is making the house come alive and keeping me awake. Definitely not weather for riding bikes. Shame, it such a long time ago I had a go. Yesterday I saw a lone biker on the M40 as I was coming back from Oxford Uni after dropping off my daughter. My eyes followed him with envy. I know, I know, he was probable envying me in my car, but his bike was a Triumph tourer, and his back was big, and it just looked so appealing to just hop on and go for a ride.<br />
I loved being a pillion, and I miss it with all my heart. It is such a shame those days are over. I miss them. But from now on I know I have to ride myself.<br />
<br />
Well, that's not all that bad! Plenty of bikes have been offered to me to ride.<br />
The day after coming back from Germany having looked at Kevin's crashed bike, I felt so low, but also defiant. I was determined not to let all the miserableness of it all stop me from riding and enjoying bikes!<br />
<br />
I had been given tickets for the November mototrcycle show at the NEC, so the following morning after returning rom Munich, I drove (shock, horror) to the show. Going to a bike show in a car was not even an option in the past: bike show meant Bikes from morning till evening. But times have changed and I went with my daughter and friend.<br />
<br />
The traffic was as horrendous as the day before. It had taken me 6 hours to get home to Stratford upon Avon from Gatwick, up the M25 and M40. It seemed we just picked up the jam where I had left it the previous evening. I think my friend and daughter were relieved when we got there, being fed up with my sighing and commenting! Sooo frustrating though, I felt I was wasting valuable time.<br />
<br />
The first stand after the barrier was CCM. A huge Teepee housed various CCM's, wooden benches and barrels dotted round the outside. I could see the CCM Adventure; the bike I should have ridden last year. This is one of the bikes which I am going to test when the weather improves. I love the bike, it's look, the image. Also the bike is not as tall as the Yamaha TTR250, which caused me some grieve. Riding the Yamaha was fine, but the minute you needed to stop or pull away, I found I felt not in full control of the bike. The CCM I believe would give me the same as the Yamaha, but more. It will allow me to be confident at stopping and starting and keeping the bike under control of road. Well, that is what I hope I will find out when I finally have a go. Would be a very cool bike to own, I think.<br />
<br />
After CCM, i had to take my daughter to Ducati to get a good supply of chocolade for her! She loves Ducati too, just like her mum. Good choice. The day was good to me. At the end of the day I had blagged a few bikes for the next season. I left feeling pleased I knew I could have a go at riding bikes in 2015, but so sad too. I miss Kevin so much. I wish so much he could see that the industry are willing to support me in this way, but even more I had been more confident to have tried it when he was alive.<br />
<br />
It is morning now, and the rain and wind are still not letting up. Time to wake up the sleepy daughter and ready to take her to school. And then I can do some dreaming up of good features to write about the next seasons bikes. Not bad.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Caroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7866970885135711395.post-17143366633793089802014-06-03T23:36:00.000+01:002014-06-05T08:23:05.714+01:00Monday 30th May 2014 Riding my Yamaha TT250R Off Road <div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifOlLamCAyaagx8aWvZBFkJ6VpIIaTANId3xmbnptSVjhnBUWd3VyfKPkO5H48Ea56-T3i59dn9uDlyxxhefx3K-VjTOWLBI_meKa-YqaFWZf0mMgFXLL6wZdPyGwf9cyd3S0K9HAvybn3/s1600/IMG_0653blog+copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifOlLamCAyaagx8aWvZBFkJ6VpIIaTANId3xmbnptSVjhnBUWd3VyfKPkO5H48Ea56-T3i59dn9uDlyxxhefx3K-VjTOWLBI_meKa-YqaFWZf0mMgFXLL6wZdPyGwf9cyd3S0K9HAvybn3/s1600/IMG_0653blog+copy.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy as a pig in mud</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whilst writing this, I am
nursing my left thigh, by having a bag of peas dangling from my belt of my
trousers onto my leg. I have a very sore leg, but today’s riding was worth it.
The peas are doing a good job cooling down a huge bruise, which many motocross racers
would be impressed with. I am almost proud of it! Nobody learned to walk
without falling over and hurting themselves, I certainly will not learn what I
can do on the bike, off road, if I don’t push myself, which will result in some
falls. I can then think about what I did wrong and learn and hopefully keep the
bike upright when I am in a tricky situation next time. I’d been observing the
riders yesterday, manoeuvring the bikes through some tricky situations on the
track, and I knew that I would like to copy that. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Jonathan, a friend of mine,
came round on his bike, and we set off to a farm with a track, not far from
where I live. I have never been there before, but Jonathan had been in the
past, messing around with friends on dirt bikes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgelNKr0vNi7kJRzMEIVjPenl57ZhT0oriKbmJsn3q-XtRFXvWZkG8U0MzDrXPQp8OPiWw_47DQsfP98dOMo6t9wHNfsEFx5GFVDxcEVo0HIXEC_9DWOgtHJql_rShPku0q3Y0ll8QC_ewQ/s1600/IMG_0616+blogcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgelNKr0vNi7kJRzMEIVjPenl57ZhT0oriKbmJsn3q-XtRFXvWZkG8U0MzDrXPQp8OPiWw_47DQsfP98dOMo6t9wHNfsEFx5GFVDxcEVo0HIXEC_9DWOgtHJql_rShPku0q3Y0ll8QC_ewQ/s1600/IMG_0616+blogcopy.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Changing into Jonathan's jacket using his inappropriate bike as clothes horse</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We had to stop for some fuel on
route. I rode up and pushed the side stand out and let the bike rest on it, whilst
Jonathan filled up his tank and paid. In the mean time, I was thinking how I
could ride off in a minute. I realised I was stuck on the bike, not sure how to
right the bike again. The bike is very tall, and now the ground was very far
away. I could swing my legs and my feet would not reach the ground. Up to now,
I had been finding it difficult to get on and off the bike, and now I had it on
the side stand, astride it, and I didn’t know what to do. When Jonathan came back,
I told him of my silly predicament. He helped me get off, and then we took the
bikes over to the corner of the petrol station and I spend some time swinging
my leg over. I felt a bit funny doing it, but this problem had to be solved
once and for all. I now know how to do it. I have to push the handle bars full
lock towards me, keep the front brake on, drop the bike towards me and swing my
leg in the air, and over the bike, and I am on. Simple. Once you know how to do
it. Getting off I just had to move my butt of the seat and stand on the ground
and get my other leg back to join the other. Pew. I hope I can do it each time.
The Ducati Monster 696 is definitely easier to mount.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdO-jaLp9sWeoY2qXSt5pnQyN58iRup16zmd5FXjNK1xyiVh3TXUbRSiM8pG8DQ20R3aP9yxg5YfPmS8acrUGxLhPyeYQSmw7piLQe9L21BBdqDaViu0MG7U22ppqqUo64sQsq0IUhSXyC/s1600/IMG_0644+blogcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdO-jaLp9sWeoY2qXSt5pnQyN58iRup16zmd5FXjNK1xyiVh3TXUbRSiM8pG8DQ20R3aP9yxg5YfPmS8acrUGxLhPyeYQSmw7piLQe9L21BBdqDaViu0MG7U22ppqqUo64sQsq0IUhSXyC/s1600/IMG_0644+blogcopy.JPG" height="168" style="color: #0000ee; text-align: center;" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We rode on to the farm. The
riding was less stressful now then previous rides as I now have one mirror to
keep and eye on the traffic behind me. Jonathan had brought over two, but the thread
of the right hand mirror was damaged so it could not be screwed on. I think
having one left one mirror is luxury. Poor Jonathan shook his head when fitting
it. A dirt bike with mirrors!! Shocking, just not done. I must say it does look
a bit strange, but I feel happier knowing if somebody want to drive into me I
will know before impact which idiot it is. Not that it matters by that stage, I
suppose. I have no indicators so this mirror is going to be treasured like not
mirror has.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnCwZJ2mYNPNTFYP9TKeUvjQnX1GHUzUfttgA8M40IfdIVdme-NwB1SuUP9lA5n9ucK2FAKS4g6z4E6ppHYnrB-gp89UUM5_SPDWjFJjqP1m3fR17Bu-kjPkdyo36ulboN0YiFKM79E4V/s1600/IMG_0665+blogcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnCwZJ2mYNPNTFYP9TKeUvjQnX1GHUzUfttgA8M40IfdIVdme-NwB1SuUP9lA5n9ucK2FAKS4g6z4E6ppHYnrB-gp89UUM5_SPDWjFJjqP1m3fR17Bu-kjPkdyo36ulboN0YiFKM79E4V/s1600/IMG_0665+blogcopy.JPG" height="354" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who's that coming over the hill? Is it a Monster? No a Yamaha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Jonathan spoke to the owner
of the farm and we then moved to a large area of what looks like wasteland.
Round the sides of the open space there were manmade hills of various heights
and steepness. Jonathan rode around on his bike looking for the track he and
his mates used. I, in the meantime, tried to follow him, and got stuck on the
first hill and had to step off and let the bike roll back down. Not a good
start. I then kept to the middle, flatter part and started to get the hang of
it. When I felt happier riding on muddy ground, I eyed up some of the hills and
decided to go for it. I didn’t have a clue what I would find behind the hills,
but it didn’t occur to check it out first. I thought I deal with what I find.
Well, I found deep rutted puddles and then straightaway the next hill. No time
to change your mind, but you just have to get up the next hill and see what
happens then. It all went well. Jonathan came to me and he hopped on the front
and was going to show me the track. Now two up on a dirt bike is a laugh, you
get bounced around and not easy to stay on. At one stage, we cornered and found
a huge puddle and no way round it. We took an impromptu short cut over very
bumpy ground. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHX3vIJDY79IEbA6FH7jdQJPl67eTgX0ljPe3IOhpwn1IpxzN_TOZY62dV4NafQzrlWUgFT7WKWQCUXqpKfwLLvxbaAjuzMMvSG6cl_27rlcFti0wTSidv_Rqp_YVzz5mTC1qG4HnjTDJW/s1600/IMG_0668blog+copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHX3vIJDY79IEbA6FH7jdQJPl67eTgX0ljPe3IOhpwn1IpxzN_TOZY62dV4NafQzrlWUgFT7WKWQCUXqpKfwLLvxbaAjuzMMvSG6cl_27rlcFti0wTSidv_Rqp_YVzz5mTC1qG4HnjTDJW/s1600/IMG_0668blog+copy.JPG" height="261" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Back in the middle I took the bike and I had a go down the track.
There was a particular muddy narrow path with the verges knee high and thick
oozing mud. I edged through it and came back to the middle and then decided as
I could do it, to do it again, but this time not so slowly but try it at a
higher speed. I had almost slipped and slithered through this very difficult
part again of the track when the bike or the path, (but definitely not me)
changed the position of the bike. I had no time to stick my leg out and the
bike and I ended up on its side. I now have a bruise with a capital letter on
my left thigh. The mud had reached every part of the bike and grass was hanging
on the handlebars. I picked up the bike and then got on and finish this path. I
wasn’t ready to stop trying. I rode along to the next lot of deep puddles.
Again I went down, but this time my leg was pinned under the bike and I
couldn’t lift it up. Jonathan pulled at the bike and I used my free leg to push
the bike upright. It was funny to be in such a stupid place: Narrow path filled
with soft oozing clay up to your ankles. Quite a laugh. We could hardly stand
up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1GuNQaOSgmHyx3xsQNLincUWJUO5w7ZLp-QZFKq_EndC1BkfyiYEi-_BWoRWvj5vkX7FGAKMqrAj_N08rqY6l2Rthf7Kz1EGhSuT-NSUsouKtu1SpEgY83zfiT2fXToL5YUlR8lmpy1pP/s1600/IMG_0684+blogcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1GuNQaOSgmHyx3xsQNLincUWJUO5w7ZLp-QZFKq_EndC1BkfyiYEi-_BWoRWvj5vkX7FGAKMqrAj_N08rqY6l2Rthf7Kz1EGhSuT-NSUsouKtu1SpEgY83zfiT2fXToL5YUlR8lmpy1pP/s1600/IMG_0684+blogcopy.JPG" height="255" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can do it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw1Qq_vhrfTEU4nrhPTPBR47NIjUIwp0KVzqNs6cxsU8I8FJaBAP_rKQ1de_uwUfKUoIi4wE6ieE37TRRqxoUZ4hN72eB4yxWwSM3RdXMexuawzDB5YgyP4wHmvHQEo6h-F2uVPw-lHeDO/s1600/IMG_0637+blogcopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw1Qq_vhrfTEU4nrhPTPBR47NIjUIwp0KVzqNs6cxsU8I8FJaBAP_rKQ1de_uwUfKUoIi4wE6ieE37TRRqxoUZ4hN72eB4yxWwSM3RdXMexuawzDB5YgyP4wHmvHQEo6h-F2uVPw-lHeDO/s1600/IMG_0637+blogcopy.JPG" height="400" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pure fun</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The next hour or so Jonathan
gave instruction and I practiced. It was such fun. It felt brilliant to try
something what I was just told I could try and then it worked. I fell of one
more time when I tried to climb a hill and the bike went a different way I
wanted to go and I ended up almost head first into a mount of clay. The bike
handlebars ended up feeling bent. Jonathan rode the bike and sorted it out with
a good kick. Who needs tools.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When we left the bike looked
like it had been used for what it had been designed for. Mud was flying of the
bike in all directions as we hit the main road. My mirror was useless as it
been well covered in mud and pointing the wrong way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A good day. Next time I must put the right clothes on. I have lovely Alpinenstars enduro jacket and pants and proper boots too. Why I forgot to put them on is a mystery. Thank you Jonathan for lending me your jacket and helmet.</span></div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-xY4XSF7ciU4%2FU47REGdnCWI%2FAAAAAAAAAK4%2FeX6sQNSBKww%2Fs1600%2FIMG_0644%2Bblogcopy.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdO-jaLp9sWeoY2qXSt5pnQyN58iRup16zmd5FXjNK1xyiVh3TXUbRSiM8pG8DQ20R3aP9yxg5YfPmS8acrUGxLhPyeYQSmw7piLQe9L21BBdqDaViu0MG7U22ppqqUo64sQsq0IUhSXyC/s1600/IMG_0644+blogcopy.JPG" -->Caroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7866970885135711395.post-91898461259737836672014-06-03T15:42:00.001+01:002014-06-05T08:24:33.208+01:00Sunday 29th May 2014 Watching motocross<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I wasn’t going to stay long,
but as life changes sometimes unexpectantly, so did this day. My plan was to see a friend and his son racing for the morning and then go to drive to
Peterborough to see friend to talk bikes, and girly talk too of course.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sAJekxZkEhVWfl3P93c83ZFC3-MK48MWG0MSvb2BL0fc6a8ouo0I9tyJGavUiaBiKxrokss4ebxWm1Fue9C1wFNaU9tQ9jpVly0q2-JdDJmdSs0iiR2Tgx1pB7Im89AQ9BaPw8E4IXbG/s1600/IMAG0862+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sAJekxZkEhVWfl3P93c83ZFC3-MK48MWG0MSvb2BL0fc6a8ouo0I9tyJGavUiaBiKxrokss4ebxWm1Fue9C1wFNaU9tQ9jpVly0q2-JdDJmdSs0iiR2Tgx1pB7Im89AQ9BaPw8E4IXbG/s1600/IMAG0862+copy.jpg" height="147" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">On setting off, I send a quick text to her to
see if it was still ok to meet up, and yes, everything was fine. Then a few
miles down the road, my mobile rang and she said her son had become ill and was
taken to hospital. All change; I thought I might as well spend the whole day watching
motocross. Unfortunately I wasn’t dressed for muddy fields at all, and looking
at my feet, I saw my pretty lace shoes. Sigh, more ruined shoes. This is not
the first time I killed of some shoes. Oh well, this would be a good reason to
buy some new ones…. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Normally, my car is filled
with gardening tools and wellies, but on leaving I had taken them out. So, no wellies
to change into. It would have looked silly anyway; shorts and wellies! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLXyzZdpqWG5cdqY_0-Zwft_XsCBcoYtZu-4R8HmGxOLq9PUt0REp6DDuXeakbkQfQG6MlL7tBcL-SEGS8j1dwz4vd4WhmLHrYNKKvdQJkl9b3lG-9W2EZS8C00qTLC-SGeEA3Evs6xNX/s1600/IMAG0871motocross+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLXyzZdpqWG5cdqY_0-Zwft_XsCBcoYtZu-4R8HmGxOLq9PUt0REp6DDuXeakbkQfQG6MlL7tBcL-SEGS8j1dwz4vd4WhmLHrYNKKvdQJkl9b3lG-9W2EZS8C00qTLC-SGeEA3Evs6xNX/s1600/IMAG0871motocross+copy.jpg" height="189" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I drove through some gorgeous
Northamptonshire countryside. In the past I used to live in Kettering, and
then, I didn’t have a very high opinion of the countryside there, but this
part of the county is very different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The weather was good and I felt all the bikes were out today for a good ride, enjoying the
day. I felt very jealous! Driving a gutless car on windy roads doesn’t do
anything for me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I didn’t see any signposting to the event, but
this didn’t matter, as getting nearer, the motocross stood out as a beacon at
the top of the hill on the opposite side of the valley. The sun lit up the
trailers and cars as if the spotlights had been turned on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXTryaj7AyZIeeHBqZYk7Ug-O6hHTmOlr8BoVYtm2xdo7H439NkXk-zzsvRFzfEgxIBfsb5zwzvXwqsivOb9wjZ5yR-0xN6-B9HkKpFbXFZBFRvUTknWhpHI3HuznVAdH3MEkvSxEsyTk/s1600/IMAG0884motocross+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXTryaj7AyZIeeHBqZYk7Ug-O6hHTmOlr8BoVYtm2xdo7H439NkXk-zzsvRFzfEgxIBfsb5zwzvXwqsivOb9wjZ5yR-0xN6-B9HkKpFbXFZBFRvUTknWhpHI3HuznVAdH3MEkvSxEsyTk/s1600/IMAG0884motocross+copy.jpg" height="203" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">On arrival and turning into
the field, I took one look of the steep hill ahead, which lead to the track,
and thought it would be best to leave my car at the bottom, and walk up. The engine
under the bonnet is the size of Flintstone's car. It would be stupid to expect
miracles. Shame I wasn’t on the Yamaha TT250R. It would have been a good place
to practice.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It had been raining on previous
days, but the ground was not too bad. During the day it you could see the
ground drying out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UnlGY-tvPQc58iCPc3Rxnajr0uUlYTnpXvlzE_FMOXDgY7kz_reE5WIfykkIc4uTznBlLHU_rumZNo_3rrFvW-_UvYYDqDce_BpD65IFAKuW9tODGStbDgGHpGk5tpJiTeGioL4HeiIT/s1600/IMAG0895mike+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UnlGY-tvPQc58iCPc3Rxnajr0uUlYTnpXvlzE_FMOXDgY7kz_reE5WIfykkIc4uTznBlLHU_rumZNo_3rrFvW-_UvYYDqDce_BpD65IFAKuW9tODGStbDgGHpGk5tpJiTeGioL4HeiIT/s1600/IMAG0895mike+copy.jpg" height="252" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad to the rescue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I thoroughly enjoyed watching
the little children racing round. They are so capable of doing something quite
challenging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If a child crashed,
fathers would come running to their rescue, picking them up, starting the
engine again, and plonking them back on and giving them encouragement. Most
adorable. The children I meant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgce1hyphenhyphenmnHzUDs0NzfEfrHTktkOCs93qaLfrcZo249jC77JAmjxwjKWyF9x7-UU3ci6mslGLuZkArSqKMfZRDZKnEbShh3B5dHHbprO_YdFiPv1PwqJ7FSd51neK7BdmXcnZApTLpqL34u8/s1600/20140601_151309james.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgce1hyphenhyphenmnHzUDs0NzfEfrHTktkOCs93qaLfrcZo249jC77JAmjxwjKWyF9x7-UU3ci6mslGLuZkArSqKMfZRDZKnEbShh3B5dHHbprO_YdFiPv1PwqJ7FSd51neK7BdmXcnZApTLpqL34u8/s1600/20140601_151309james.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In one race, thirty odd
children aged roughly between eight and thirteen showed what a pickle they can
get into. When the bar came down at the start of the race, some racers opened
the throttle too fast and ended up doing some spectacular wheelies, ending up on
the ground. Racers who were late of the start line, had nowhere to go and it quickly
became a heap of bikes and children, like an ants nest. Fathers and marshals
untangled the lot and send them on their way. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFTAVAfIwSJreCBeb-iCsn43M8RNQMTxEH_dcvr2tASfU3t1YZ_Ppoecl8f8aHNr1iRW6mWKuq0BvU1R5_AN0CiypYJI9anKm0FZzFhh8f8bbOdfC7PpZAmE4h4lH5309qo0XLX-6EN4OE/s1600/IMAG0891james2motocross+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFTAVAfIwSJreCBeb-iCsn43M8RNQMTxEH_dcvr2tASfU3t1YZ_Ppoecl8f8aHNr1iRW6mWKuq0BvU1R5_AN0CiypYJI9anKm0FZzFhh8f8bbOdfC7PpZAmE4h4lH5309qo0XLX-6EN4OE/s1600/IMAG0891james2motocross+copy.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I was planning to have a
go at some off roading the following day on my Yamaha, I kept looking
at how the racers were positioning themselves in different situations. I
noticed that sometimes they would be sitting very forward and at other times
further back. I worked it out, if you need grip at the front, you would slide
forward, and the back can move around, as it likes. I am going to practice this
tomorrow. I thought it is better not try the jumping yet, even though the
riders made it look so easy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I watched and photographed the races from
different places, walking up and down this hill. I kicked myself for not having taken my canon camera with me, so I had to use my telephone instead.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Lost no calories unfortunately
as there was a good burger and chips place, so all lost calories where replenished
in no time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I left feeling I had a good
day and was looking forward to tomorrow when I would have a go myself.</span><span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I like to thank Mike and James for letting me photograph them. I also like to thank Mark for allowing to use his pictures from his phone.</span></div>
Caroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7866970885135711395.post-30568846156889316782014-05-30T00:58:00.001+01:002014-05-30T01:03:58.487+01:00Steph Jeavons and Lois Pryce <div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">Steph
Jeavons and Lois Pryce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">I have just
finished reading Steph Jeavons blog. <a href="http://www.stephmoto-adventurebikeblog.com/"><span style="font-family: Times;">http://www.stephmoto-adventurebikeblog.com/</span></a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to follow her from day one but was
not able to do so, but now I am up to date with her adventures. I have known
she was going off to travel round the world. I wanted to meet her at the Excel
Motorcycle Show in London last February, to wish her the best with her imminent
departure and have a chat, but there was not enough time to do so. Now I have
seen her website I am impressed how she has achieved her goal.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her blog is full of information about the preparation,
which I feel is the stage I am at. By reading her blog you get a good feel for
what she is experiencing; from the countries she travelling through, the people
she meets, to the difficulties she encounters. Her trip is a very long one, (as
the world is rather large planet) so I am looking forward to many more months
of reading. I have signed myself up for regular updates, so I can read them as
they become live. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"><br /></span>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">On
her blog she has a list of good inspirational books to read and I have found
some of these books in Kevin’s office. The first book I read about people
travelling the world, or part of the world, was, Lois on the loose. <a href="http://www.loisontheloose.com/">www.loisontheloose.com</a> I was given
this book to read by my dear friend Jonathan. When I talked to him about my
plan to do a big trip on my own, the next time he came to see me, he gave me the
book of Lois to read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was fascinated
to read that she, one day decided, she didn’t feel like working in an office
anymore and then took off, to discover the world and most likely found herself.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">My
life has been completely ‘demolished’ a year ago, and my future wiped out. In
this book I was reading that it is possible as a girl to go and discover the
worId alone. A seed was sown in my head, which now occupies my thoughts every
day. When I finished the book I decided that that is what I must do. Lois is my
inspiration. I can see now, I can perhaps achieve the same. I do hope so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Caroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7866970885135711395.post-38372136602002421402014-02-15T21:52:00.000+00:002014-05-28T22:30:17.521+01:00Excel Motorcycle Show 2014<em><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pictures by Ingrid Ash</span></em><br />
<img alt="Caroline on the California Superbike School Ducati" data-mce-src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_california_superbike_school_at_excel_motorcycle_show.JPG" data-mce-style="margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px; float: left;" src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_california_superbike_school_at_excel_motorcycle_show.JPG" height="160" style="border: 0px; cursor: default; float: left; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" width="98" /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Arriving at the Excel Motorcycle show by car did not feel right. My excuse was that the weather was atrocious with very strong winds and therefor coming by car did seem the better option.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Oh, and I haven’t got a bike, so it wasn’t a realistic option anyway. The car park was heaving with cars, but not a bike in sight; a bit worrying. I was wondering if I had come to the right place.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Walking up to the ticket control, I handed over my ticket. I was as excited as a child let loose in a sweet shop. It was most disappointing to have my ticket returned and refused entry. I have travelled two and a half hours and I cannot go in? What sort of cruel trick is this? The man pointed at the sign which read clearly in bold letters that this was the entrance to the diving and watersport show. Ah…I had not spotted that. That felt a bit silly, say the least. I make a mental note to get my eyes checked next week.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Finally, I get past the correct ticket control and I feel I am back in a very familiar world. Bikes everywhere and lots of people who have the same passion. Heaven. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<img alt="Caroline on a CCM GP450" data-mce-src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_ccm_gp450.JPG" data-mce-style="float: right; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_ccm_gp450.JPG" height="160" style="border: 0px; cursor: default; float: right; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" width="240" /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I head off to CCM. On their stand there are two,new, very clean looking 450’s. I think they need to be worked off road a bit, to show them what they should be used for. Maybe the public doesn’t want to get dirty on bikes? The first 450 I try out feel lovely and high up. I think it is a similar height as the Yamaha TT R250 I rode recently. I am told that I will be riding the lowered version as I swap bikes. This one has been seriously lowered as I can put both feet securely on the ground. It almost feels a little to low. When I get of the bike and compare the clearance under the bike, I can't see there is any, or much difference between the bikes. So the height difference is taken off the seat and under it. This is fantastic as shorties, like myself, can ride the bike feeling they can but there feet down and reach the ground and have the advantage of the same ground clearance as lofties, like Kevin. That is surely the best of both worlds. Can’t wait to try it out. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My next stop is with Mark and Lizzy of the Spyder, Club, having a chat with them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">During the day I meet up with staff of Honda, KTM, Triumph and Ducati. I get reintroduced to Badger from California Superbike School and get my first lesson on how to sit properly on a bike. You have to start somewhere!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<img alt="Mmmm lunch - hotdog!" data-mce-src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_hotdog_at_excel_motorcycle_show.JPG" data-mce-style="margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px; float: left;" src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_hotdog_at_excel_motorcycle_show.JPG" height="114" style="border: 0px; cursor: default; float: left; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" width="140" /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">At lunchtime I observe the crowds, whilst eating the most expensive hotdog I have ever eaten. I notice the same thing as I observed at the last show at the NEC. It is plain to see that there is a serious lack of young people at the show. I am wondering what is going to look like in say about 10 years time. Maybe manufacturers need to start thinking of designing bikes for the elderly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Where are the youngsters? What is putting youngster of riding bikes, I wonder. Can’t be the constant rain, or their mother’s disapproving attitude? Or are boys not boys anymore?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Is it that the government is killing of motorcycling on the roads? I do know that taking your test nowadays is not the same as when I took mine, 20 odd years ago. Getting a licence is costly, and there are a huge amount of hoops to jump through, before the government, will allow you near the roads. Then you need to get insurance, which is crippling too, and a bike and riding kit. I think it is such a shame to think that youngsters have so many obstacles put in their way to experience something that I took for granted. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<img alt="Caroline with Kevin's Dave Taylor Lifetime Achievement Award" data-mce-src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_dave_taylor_award_for_kevin.JPG" data-mce-style="margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px; float: right;" src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_dave_taylor_award_for_kevin.JPG" height="160" style="border: 0px; cursor: default; float: right; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" width="122" /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the afternoon I meet up with Phil West from MCN at the MCN stand. I am very proud to say Kevin had been awarded a Dave Taylor Lifetime Achievement Award, and I was here to collect it on Kevin’s behalf. Phil hands it to me and I get offered a plastic bag with it, to keep safe when taking home. There were no trumpets, speeches or applause. Just as arranged, just as Kevin would have liked it. I will have a drink to this, tonight. Thank you all, staff of MCN, for awarding Kevin with this prestigious award. He would have very much appreciated this, and then he would have said something about this which I cannot possible write here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I go round the stands and show it off. I am so proud.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I finish of the day with a beer and a smile on my face, having had a good day, and a long drive home.</span>Caroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7866970885135711395.post-51804157532296880252014-02-09T20:13:00.000+00:002014-05-26T20:19:08.650+01:00Sunday 9th February 2014<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I woke up with the realisation I had forgotten to buy Saturday's Daily Telegraph. How do I get hold of one now? I want to read the motoring section. I jump into the car and pick it up from one of my clients I work for.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There, for the first time, is an article about me written by Erin Baker, the Daily Telegraph's motoring correspondent! I am so excited. I wish Kevin could see this. I hope he can. He would be so proud of what I am trying to do, I am sure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I have a strong desire to keep Kevin's life going. He was such a great man, I do not want his work and his passion for motorcycles to stop for him or for myself. I feel I still have a connection with him by riding bikes. I can not have him back, but I am hoping to ease my pain by doing the things which we loved to do, such as riding motorcycles. I now know I do not have to say goodbye to that as well. I have to create my future myself now. I would like to do the things Kevin and I had planned, hoping it will help me to come to terms with losing Kevin and our future together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">All this is way out of my comfort zone. For years I have been very happy being pillion with Kevin, and had little desire to ride myself. Kevin was an excellent rider, full of confidence, without taking stupid risks. He knew his limitations and worked to improve himself. But, having lost my rider, I have to move forward on the seat of the bike and take control myself.</span></div>
Caroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7866970885135711395.post-83556557233212839672014-01-20T21:26:00.000+00:002014-05-26T17:18:27.331+01:00My day on the Yamaha TT250R<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Not a usual Monday today. This was a Monday to look forward to, an excellent tone setter for the week. Jonathan, a good friend of mine, was coming round with a trailer and bike to pick me up for my first off road riding session.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was not ready of course, as I could not decide what to wear. Typical girl, I know. What does one wear for off roading, which one happens to have lying about in the garage? I tried Kevin's off road helmet, but I could turn my head round in it, so no good. I settled for Jonathan's helmet and his, for me, oversized jacket, which he kindly lent me. My Triumph over trousers would have to do. How much padding would I need? Hopefully there is enough in them. Secretly, I hope I will not get them dirty, as they are so lovely. Boots are next. I only have one pair, which have started to crack, but will hopefully survive today. Gloves are more of a problem. I have one Triumph glove left as I dropped the other near the Grand Canyon, riding Route 66 with Kevin two years ago. After a rummage through Kevin's gloves, which were quite obviously too large, I decide to use the snug fitting gloves signed and donated by Bradley Smith for the Kevin Ash Fund. They fitted me perfectly. I must have man-sized hands. Shocking. Does anybody want to buy some gloves worn and signed by Bradley Smith, and now me?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The weather had changed from rain every day, and every minute, to frost and glorious sunshine. I would stay dry today but it would be frosty and slippery - great! I was filled with anticipation of what was to come as we drove to the Cotswolds, towing a trailer with the Yamaha TT R250 securely strapped down.</span><br />
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<img alt="Caroline" data-mce-src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0225b.JPG" data-mce-style="float: left; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0225b.JPG" height="264" style="border: 0px; float: left; margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px;" width="320" /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Arriving at the woods, I took in the enormity of the task ahead. The first hill was almost vertical and fear gripped my heart. I can't do this, can I? I hopped on the back and I received some one to one tuition. Jonathan explained how to tackle different situations and I felt it all it all made perfect sense. One of the things he mentioned was to let the bike do what it wants to do and go with it. Now, as I was born on a bicycle in the Netherlands, I know what it feels like to let a bike do what it wants underneath you. That is what he must have meant, I decided, which turns out to be correct.</span><br />
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<a href="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0196b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Caroline" border="0" data-mce-src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0196b.JPG" data-mce-style="margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px; float: left;" src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0196b.JPG" height="320" style="border: 0px;" width="209" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As I didn't feel I was ready to throw myself off the nearest vertical dip, and I had spotted a gravel pit nearby, I opted to have my first introduction to the bike there. Getting on it was my first challenge. I am not the tallest girl around, I needed to quickly get used to being on tiptoes with one foot and my other sticking up into the heavens - different sort of fun. I rode off and spent time getting used to the different riding position and trying out different manoeuvres. The bike was surprisingly easy to ride. It felt very light and agile as the weight is down low. I felt at ease in no time and started really enjoying myself. As I went round, still receiving instructions from Jonathan, I could feel what this bike would do. It was very forgiving, I could almost stall it but I could easily recover.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The gear change was smooth and the lever is in the right place. I have ridden a Honda CBR 500 and the gear leaver was not it the right position to start off with, and it made you conscious of changing gear, which is not something you want to do as you are about to overtake. It should be done almost unconsciously, so you can concentrate on riding. The clutch and front brake leavers are often positioned too far from the handlebars for me, and are a challenge to use, even though I know now I have man sized hands. But these were within my grasp. A bonus!</span><br />
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<a href="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0192b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Caroline" border="0" data-mce-src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0192b.jpg" data-mce-style="margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px; float: right;" src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0192b.jpg" height="320" style="border: 0px;" width="214" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I liked the height and the seat/handlebar position, I felt immediately in control of the bike and the seat is just the right width.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I tried tightening my turns, adjusting to the different riding position from riding on road to off-road. As I increased my speed, my confidence increased too. I now felt ready to take on the woods. I climbed back on and an initial route was chosen. I did not want have to make last minute decisions which way round a tree I should go, knowing very well I would end up becoming a reluctant tree hugger. I wanted to concentrate on riding. I was ready to go for it. I gripped the handlebars, swore quietly to myself, opened the throttle and set off down the first slippery dip. On my return, Jonathan said he was surprised to overhear me swear - oops. I explained to him “I do that when I have to do something I have not done before and it is a bit scary”. Not something to worry too much about.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I tried to treat the bike somewhat as a mountain bicycle. There was of course the added pleasure of being able to open the throttle riding up the steep hills instead of having to peddle like mad. I think I would like to add a little engine on my mountain bike.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was surprised how quickly I had forgotten how to ride a motorbike and wobbled round like a first time learner. Been one now twice. I got very cross with myself and told myself I could carry on like that, or improve. If Jonathan had been nearby he could then have overheard me talk loudly to myself all the instruction he had given me. It did help chastising myself a bit, and subsequently my riding and my confidence improved. After a well-earned biscuit and apple for lunch, Jonathan took a turn and I watched and learned what I could try and do to improve.</span><br />
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<a href="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0207b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Caroline" border="0" data-mce-src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0207b.JPG" data-mce-style="margin-left: 5px; margin-right: 5px; float: left;" src="http://shop.ashonbikes.com/Content/Images/uploaded/IMG_0207b.JPG" height="195" style="border: 0px;" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I did fall off once at the end of the session, and I have a bruise to prove it. That was a fantastic day learning something, which I now want to get better at and do lots more of.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Thank you Jonathan for lending me your bike, your helmet and jacket, your time and being my excellent teacher and photographer.</span>Caroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7866970885135711395.post-9643755159592272892014-01-17T20:56:00.000+00:002014-05-26T17:30:12.002+01:00Offer to ride the CCM Adventure GP450<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpfTQn3xKmWZIDFkpNtBIRYIDmCifkej38eQeffh39y6milPkzEllMFNJLb8mcfKy_Vv3GaTGZJZKkTOA2GWDsSzd8CQ26AcLfSPX4hg7pOJGto5j1uxcZi8Wi8TPAy4xUWhZ6JKzfIws0/s1600/CCM-GP450-Adventure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpfTQn3xKmWZIDFkpNtBIRYIDmCifkej38eQeffh39y6milPkzEllMFNJLb8mcfKy_Vv3GaTGZJZKkTOA2GWDsSzd8CQ26AcLfSPX4hg7pOJGto5j1uxcZi8Wi8TPAy4xUWhZ6JKzfIws0/s1600/CCM-GP450-Adventure.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I received the best phone call earlier, definitely most exciting of the year so far. Hopefully this will be the first of many in 2014! Mark from the Spyder Club told me that CCM would like me to ride the new, gorgeous looking CCM GP 450 Adventure. What an offer! I was so excited.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I did my research and read some of the reviews, and by the looks of things it's going to be a fantastic bike to ride. Better get some practice in before I go. I've never ridden a bike off-road before and I've got butterflies of nervousness, but I'm determined to have a go! It can't be that scary, I've thrown myself down a mountain for fun whilst skiing, this should be a similar experience! Once I get used to it I'll be able to sit back (figuratively), relax and enjoy myself. Note to self, must repeat this as a pep-talk on the day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm going to make a phone call now. I know just the person who might like to get some practice in himself...</span></div>
Caroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7866970885135711395.post-72364250137551277132014-01-03T15:00:00.000+00:002014-05-26T17:32:52.705+01:00My New Year resolutions<div style="background-color: white; color: #5c5b5b;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I have made my New Year's resolutions for the first time in 10 years! I never thought it was something I wanted to do again, but this year has been different. Resolutions are the way forward for me. I've had these ideas in my mind for some time, but on New Years Eve I spoke my newly created resolutions out loud, which made it more real to me. So all I need to do it make it happen.</span><br />
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<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I have been without riding pillion for a year now. It has been a tough year. It is not until you lose being with bikes you realise how much bikes are part of your life, part of you, the way you tick. It has been very difficult to accept that this is the way it was going to be from now on.</span><br />
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<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I have one good attribute which has helped me in many situations in the past, which is that I can be determined and will not give up easily, which means I have every hope of succeeding! I have received the best incentive to make this work; an invitation to ride 'The Dragon' together with a friend in Atlanta. That is such a fantastic motivation! I could not believe it when I received it, I was on a real high! Now, I have heard of this unbelievable route but I decided to have a closer look at it and did some research. The first words that caught my eye was "Hell Roads". Not very encouraging for a biker who has not ridden a bike for twenty years. Twenty years? A shockingly long time. The article continued to say that The Dragon Tail section of US 129 interstate starts in North Carolina, and ends 11 miles later in Tennessee with a staggering 318 hairpin corners. How do they all fit in? I researched some pictures too. A lovely sports cars taking some hairpin corners in beautiful surroundings, worryingly large grizzly bears standing on the road, and a pick up truck next to a sheer, unprotected drop rescuing a gleaming Ducati. That last image will be engraved on my mind for a while.</span><br />
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<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Some of the warnings about this route are a bit alarming too. "Do not rides on any of the road markings" as they are incredible slippery. Or "be aware of large lorries taking up the whole width of the road" helpfully depicted in a worrying image alongside. I make a mental note not to go too fast, as smacking into a lorry, or end up cuddling a grizzly bear are things that I could do without.</span><br />
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<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I show the invitation to my girls. Their immediate reaction is that it is such a good opportunity! "Mum you should definitely do that" followed by gasps of horror once I shared my research with them. Oh well, it can't be <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">that</em> bad surely? It has made me even more determined to have a go at this road, I must ride 'The Dragon' myself.</span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">First things first - I need a bike. </span></div>
Caroline Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06378299670353836832noreply@blogger.com0