Various adventures
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Various adventures
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Tuesday, 28 April 2015
Friday, 3 October 2014
Carlisle with the UK Bike Section
Not sure if I should be on this site as the Group has been renamed, just known now as the Scottish Motorcycle Touring group.
I was down in Carlisle a couple of weeks ago to join up with memebers of the UK section, hasd a supwerb day out around the Lakes and mountains, the Hardknott Pass being particularly hard with a couple of near mishaps.
Nice to see the group again, good that they were prepared to make the long run North, which saved us going too far South.
I was down in Carlisle a couple of weeks ago to join up with memebers of the UK section, hasd a supwerb day out around the Lakes and mountains, the Hardknott Pass being particularly hard with a couple of near mishaps.
Saturday, 26 July 2014
Still ticking along.
Been a bit of a time since this blog was updated. No doubt now that Mr McInally has reappeared after his wonderful tour of the land of Oz, things might brighten up. Uncle Dougz has been afloat in his boat, following the route of the puffer Parra Handy through the Crinan Canal, flying the Jolly Roger, and no doubt sending letters home in his empties.
Steed of steel has been clocking up the miles, down to Border Bikes at Duns to see Andy Mimms and have a coffee and a blether- home via Greenlaw, Soutra Isle, a nice run, no hurry no fuss.
Garmin are organising a replacement Sat Nav for the one which I lost in Wales, probaly a sheep wandering about with it round its neck. Damaged helmet repaired under warranty by BMW and even had to replace a broken microphone on my Autocom, but with no one to talk to an nowhere to go does not really matter at the moment.
Charity cycle run on 10th August with 2000 plus cycles taking part through the Borders so we may well be involved there. Day before (9th) we have thirty four IPA members from Rochdale comeing to see us at the Mercat Grill before they go to the tattoo.
Steed of steel has been clocking up the miles, down to Border Bikes at Duns to see Andy Mimms and have a coffee and a blether- home via Greenlaw, Soutra Isle, a nice run, no hurry no fuss.
Garmin are organising a replacement Sat Nav for the one which I lost in Wales, probaly a sheep wandering about with it round its neck. Damaged helmet repaired under warranty by BMW and even had to replace a broken microphone on my Autocom, but with no one to talk to an nowhere to go does not really matter at the moment.
Charity cycle run on 10th August with 2000 plus cycles taking part through the Borders so we may well be involved there. Day before (9th) we have thirty four IPA members from Rochdale comeing to see us at the Mercat Grill before they go to the tattoo.
Wednesday, 16 July 2014
From one minor hiccup to another
A sort of an update after my mishaps in Wales.
New seat arrived within eighteen hours of notifing the supplier.- super , slick service
My helmet is about to be fixed by BMW who have sent a whole front piece as a replacement - just going to take somebody a while to strip the helmet down and sort it. In the meantime I snapped the flip top face panel down and chopped off the microphone from my Autocom headset - at least I know I can get in touch with the supplier as they have already fixed my PTT switch which jammed after two days use.
However, Garmin UK are a different ball game - lots of adverts all over the place, in garages, petrol stations, etc, but I have rung them several times, fifteen minutes on a premium rate line - who is the silly works here - typical, ring a sales line and get an immediate response, call a customer services manager - different game. Many thanks to Steve Bolton, his wife and daughter who drove the road last weekend looking for the lost Garmin.
I would have hoped that if someone found it and it was working that the Garmin computer would have been able to identify it if they tried to plug it in !! Bit like Sky TV.
Dougz popped up on the screen this week looking for chums to go for a ride out, but I have been otherwise occupied. But there is another rally planned for Carlisle which looks interesting.
New seat arrived within eighteen hours of notifing the supplier.- super , slick service
My helmet is about to be fixed by BMW who have sent a whole front piece as a replacement - just going to take somebody a while to strip the helmet down and sort it. In the meantime I snapped the flip top face panel down and chopped off the microphone from my Autocom headset - at least I know I can get in touch with the supplier as they have already fixed my PTT switch which jammed after two days use.
However, Garmin UK are a different ball game - lots of adverts all over the place, in garages, petrol stations, etc, but I have rung them several times, fifteen minutes on a premium rate line - who is the silly works here - typical, ring a sales line and get an immediate response, call a customer services manager - different game. Many thanks to Steve Bolton, his wife and daughter who drove the road last weekend looking for the lost Garmin.
I would have hoped that if someone found it and it was working that the Garmin computer would have been able to identify it if they tried to plug it in !! Bit like Sky TV.
Dougz popped up on the screen this week looking for chums to go for a ride out, but I have been otherwise occupied. But there is another rally planned for Carlisle which looks interesting.
Saturday, 12 July 2014
IPA British Rally to Welsh Wales
An IPA motor cycle section weekend in Wales
Winding the clock back to last weekend and I found a few photos of my trip to Wrexham with the IPA British Motorcycle section.
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Here we are heading off on Saturday morning from the Premier Inn, Town Centre , Wrexham,
then it was off into the wilds of Welsh Wales . We did stop, as I reported earlier, at the Ponderossa on top of the Horseshoe Pass , where I spotted this unusual replical of a Ural Combination.
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then it was off into the wilds of Welsh Wales . We did stop, as I reported earlier, at the Ponderossa on top of the Horseshoe Pass , where I spotted this unusual replical of a Ural Combination.
The car park was very busy, although the Police did tell us that there were a lot less than usual,
Really strange how we had no problems with our bikes in Europe, leaving them unattended, not a problem, yet in Edinburgh we had three knicked by the local yobs. In Italy Mr McIinally and the guys took the micky out of me when I was seated in the shade. Here we had our own security man who made it his business to keep an eye on the bikes , cheers Mr Foulton.
Sunday, 6 July 2014
IPA Ride out 5th July 2014
The Steed of Steel has a collapse.
Another lovely morning here in Wrexham, so looks like another ride out into the Welsh countryside.
Yesterday,(Sat) we left in a convoy, fifteen bikes, and our leader took us out into the wilds, we had about one mile on a dual carriageway and the remainder on everything from single track roads to the A5 - long sweeping bends, tight corners, through the mountains of Capel Curig,past the National Moutaineering Centre at Plas y Brennan, the white water centre; mountain railways, copper mines, and some beautiful lakes and reservoirs. Stopped at Lyn Brenig reservoir and visitor centre, then in the picturesque village of Beddgelen for lunch.
Only a few miles back on the road when disaster struck, my Garmin Sat Nav popped off the mounting on a really potholed piece of road, and I did not realise what had happened for a few minutes, stopped had words with my following bike who had seen it but could not stop me due to the roads. I went back and had a look but no trace ,it could have been anywhere and is likely to be in bits. I had wisely marked up the route on a new road atlas so I knew where I was and how to get home, old style. So set off, taking my time, admiring the views and at one point thought I had intercepted the group who were running a figure of eight route - so sat at Betws-y-Coed for half an hour. No luck so set off along the A5 towards Wrexham.
Had a "senior moment" and thought I was heading in the wrong direction - despite having the sun on my back !! (heading east) so pulled in to recheck the map - and like a friend of mine did recently, lost my footing and the Steed of Steel hit the deck (gently) no damage other than pride. However I did have to flag down a passing motorcyclist who helped get it up again. Thereafter a slow run, even saw the steam train on the Llangollen Railway . End of the day made it back to the hotel about 25 minutes before the main group.
Headed out as a group for a meal - not a good choice "Frankie and Bennies" where we had three different tables - place being busy our meal was eighty minutes in arriving and steak was "chuck" so it was not eaten.
Wrexham town centre was bouncing with activity, lots of scantily clad young ladies , semi drunk, police and bouncers at all the pubs. We spoke to three Police who said that come midnight it would be wild with fights and drunks. Bit too old for that so home to bed.
Yesterday,(Sat) we left in a convoy, fifteen bikes, and our leader took us out into the wilds, we had about one mile on a dual carriageway and the remainder on everything from single track roads to the A5 - long sweeping bends, tight corners, through the mountains of Capel Curig,past the National Moutaineering Centre at Plas y Brennan, the white water centre; mountain railways, copper mines, and some beautiful lakes and reservoirs. Stopped at Lyn Brenig reservoir and visitor centre, then in the picturesque village of Beddgelen for lunch.
Only a few miles back on the road when disaster struck, my Garmin Sat Nav popped off the mounting on a really potholed piece of road, and I did not realise what had happened for a few minutes, stopped had words with my following bike who had seen it but could not stop me due to the roads. I went back and had a look but no trace ,it could have been anywhere and is likely to be in bits. I had wisely marked up the route on a new road atlas so I knew where I was and how to get home, old style. So set off, taking my time, admiring the views and at one point thought I had intercepted the group who were running a figure of eight route - so sat at Betws-y-Coed for half an hour. No luck so set off along the A5 towards Wrexham.
Had a "senior moment" and thought I was heading in the wrong direction - despite having the sun on my back !! (heading east) so pulled in to recheck the map - and like a friend of mine did recently, lost my footing and the Steed of Steel hit the deck (gently) no damage other than pride. However I did have to flag down a passing motorcyclist who helped get it up again. Thereafter a slow run, even saw the steam train on the Llangollen Railway . End of the day made it back to the hotel about 25 minutes before the main group.
Headed out as a group for a meal - not a good choice "Frankie and Bennies" where we had three different tables - place being busy our meal was eighty minutes in arriving and steak was "chuck" so it was not eaten.
Wrexham town centre was bouncing with activity, lots of scantily clad young ladies , semi drunk, police and bouncers at all the pubs. We spoke to three Police who said that come midnight it would be wild with fights and drunks. Bit too old for that so home to bed.
Wednesday, 2 July 2014
Just another days news
Panda monium in Edinburgh
Turned out to be an exciting day !!! maybe - there is a saying about not being able to get blood from a stone - today was my turn, and the plebotomist really struggled in her attempts, two arms, three holes and maybe not enough for the necessary tests.
But, later in the day I ended up at Edinburgh zoo and managed to drop in to see the two Panda Bears, who thankfully were neither hiding nor asleep - wonderfull to see them out and about climbing around their pens and then it was tea time - happy days.
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But, later in the day I ended up at Edinburgh zoo and managed to drop in to see the two Panda Bears, who thankfully were neither hiding nor asleep - wonderfull to see them out and about climbing around their pens and then it was tea time - happy days.
Several changes in the zoo layout, new pool for the penguins, and the meercats have been moved into a new area near the entrance.
Cheered me up to watch the wee chappies for a while. Anyway, off to Ayr again early morning, need to waken the Steed of Steel.
Continuing and confusing saga of Scottish IPA hospitality
IPA get their dates confused (maybe)
Slightly duller morning with the threat of a shower late, which makes a change from the last few days, but it is a bit more comfortable on the motor cycle. Certainly not dull the past couple of days at the World Cup, listened to the USA game last night on the radio, nail biting to the end, and at Wimbledon, the young Australian Nick Kyrgios beating Rafael Nadal has caused a real stir, so Andy Murray and Co, of the top seeds had better pull their socks up.
Down at the Mercat Grill last night for an IPOA dinner when our guests were Russ Baker and his family over from Ontario, and as a great coincidence they turned out to be friends of Ray Massicotte who we met at the Hackenberg battery, near Metz on 13th June. Super meal, Scottish theme so do not think we have our dates confused when you see the haggis appearing. Two goes at the haggis last night, haggis cigars ( not the smoking kind) and haggis, neeps and tatties as a main.
Down at the Mercat Grill last night for an IPOA dinner when our guests were Russ Baker and his family over from Ontario, and as a great coincidence they turned out to be friends of Ray Massicotte who we met at the Hackenberg battery, near Metz on 13th June. Super meal, Scottish theme so do not think we have our dates confused when you see the haggis appearing. Two goes at the haggis last night, haggis cigars ( not the smoking kind) and haggis, neeps and tatties as a main.
Must comment on the motorcycle theme, I see that Harley Davidson have produced an electric motorcycle, ( might need a hellish long extension cable) named the "Livewire", top speed 90 mph with enough power to do 100 miles between charges ( then need three hours to charge) rather than fill the tank - sign of the times.
At least I can get 200 miles before the Steed needs to top up and my botty have a rest, so that will be at lest one stop on our way to Wrexham on Friday.
Mr McInally now in upside down land - no sign of him dipping in the ocean yet.
Thursday, 26 June 2014
Who needs to travel when we have such a lovely country.
What a beautiful morning when I arose, and with the sun in the sky I changed my mind about the plans for the day, no point in trailing about when the sun was up. Managed a bit of gardening, completed a few tasks, but as it clouded oveer I had a change of heart and decided that the call of the open road was too much. So off I headed on the "Steed of Steel", flask and rolls, and the magic chair of course. Not really anything planned but I headed off into East Lothian, through Tranent, Gifford, and headed off over the moors to the Whiteadder Reservoir. Bloody massive wind farm up on the moors, such a disgrace, and probably only about six miles, line of sight from the Torness nuclear power station - talk about an overkill - cheers Mr Salmond. Reservoir looked very welcoming
it was really odd to see a long line of ducks swimming back and forth.
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it was really odd to see a long line of ducks swimming back and forth.
On to Duns where I dropped in to see Andy Mimms at Border Bikes who was pleased to hear that apart from the bulb dropping off the hooter, the bike had run smoothly through Europe. Had my rolls and coffee and set off - decided to avoid the A1 so took to the back roads, through Abbey St Batham and over to Oldhamstocks, then took the wrong road !! ended up driving through a ford on a stream, then on a steep hill had to dismount and open a gate to proceed. At one stage I thought I was going to have to do an about turn, but ended up through Innerwick and Spott. I spotted a watering fountain at the side of the road obviously used in the past by drovers, horse drawn carts , etc.
Now, here I am in the middle of nowhere, sitting on the bike taking the photo when, of all things, a Police patrol car passed, giving me an odd look, but to see the Polis afloat in such an out of the way place came as a surprise.
Onwards, up and down, narrow roads, etc, and eventually I was rewarded with some stunning views out over the Firth of Forth to the Isle of May and also the Bass Rock
I have to say it was a super run out, peace and quiet, interesting roads, bends, hills, dips, and plenty sheep to avoid. Nice to be able to avoid the main A1 as I meandered towards Haddington, through Garvald, Nungate, and then from the market town, back to the Mercat Grill, Whitecraig along the old A1, probably out for four hours and covered some ninety miles.
Home to Penicuik, two dozen unscrambled eggs in the pannier - thank goodness - in time for a bit of tennis ( raining in London - tough luck) and then some footie.
Off on yet another training course in the morning - which I could see far enough, but needs must (and also the Law) .
Friday, 20 June 2014
Dreaming, maybe not
Was I ever away in Europe, seems like an eternity already, and now , so much happening any memories as so distant to be lost. Any benefit gained has all but been wiped out, such is life.
Couple of days ago I was talking to my friend Suburu man and discovered that he, his two sons and his cousin had taken four cars and instead of spending a long weekend on a racing track in England had done a ten day tour of Europe "running" a number of the well known mountain passes, including the Stelvio, which they drove over the day before we did, thoroughly enjoying the experience.
Fifteen days in the saddle took their toll physically and I am now having to return to my exercising regime and keeping a diary to please the cardio rehab people. Even managed my first swim for several weeks yesterday. One consolation is that I will not offend folks by refusing the meals put in front of me, but on the other hand the new menu at the Mercat Grill is very nice.
World Cup woes for the men from England, so much for highly paid prima donna's doing their bit, and Mrs Rooney has surely not had the chance to unpack her eighteen suitcases - if the FA have any sense they will ship the squad home as soon as they get their third game over with, unless of course the palyers agree to pay their own costs.
Had a nice run down to Ayr today on the "Steed of Steel", which was raring to go, having had a new lease of life. I took lots of back roads, and also the deserted old A74 from Abington to Douglas, so peaceful and less hassle with no traffic. Weather was lovely so when I finished the job I was able to return via Mauchline, Muirkirk, etc, and even saw the crowds out waiting for the Commonwealth baton to pass through Robbie Burn's country.
I even tried my luck for a cuppa at a friend's house in Mauchline, they either knew I was coming and were hiding or were at work - my loss, their lucky day.
Wimbledon starts next week and Andy Murray will be back in action, so obviously need to wish him luck, and with his current form, he will need it.
Lots on tomorrow, great excitement - Macmerry Gala day !!! so I am digging out my body armour, or perhaps the Peebles Beltane festival, where one of IPA visitors from the USA will be attending.
Couple of days ago I was talking to my friend Suburu man and discovered that he, his two sons and his cousin had taken four cars and instead of spending a long weekend on a racing track in England had done a ten day tour of Europe "running" a number of the well known mountain passes, including the Stelvio, which they drove over the day before we did, thoroughly enjoying the experience.
Fifteen days in the saddle took their toll physically and I am now having to return to my exercising regime and keeping a diary to please the cardio rehab people. Even managed my first swim for several weeks yesterday. One consolation is that I will not offend folks by refusing the meals put in front of me, but on the other hand the new menu at the Mercat Grill is very nice.
World Cup woes for the men from England, so much for highly paid prima donna's doing their bit, and Mrs Rooney has surely not had the chance to unpack her eighteen suitcases - if the FA have any sense they will ship the squad home as soon as they get their third game over with, unless of course the palyers agree to pay their own costs.
Had a nice run down to Ayr today on the "Steed of Steel", which was raring to go, having had a new lease of life. I took lots of back roads, and also the deserted old A74 from Abington to Douglas, so peaceful and less hassle with no traffic. Weather was lovely so when I finished the job I was able to return via Mauchline, Muirkirk, etc, and even saw the crowds out waiting for the Commonwealth baton to pass through Robbie Burn's country.
I even tried my luck for a cuppa at a friend's house in Mauchline, they either knew I was coming and were hiding or were at work - my loss, their lucky day.
Wimbledon starts next week and Andy Murray will be back in action, so obviously need to wish him luck, and with his current form, he will need it.
Lots on tomorrow, great excitement - Macmerry Gala day !!! so I am digging out my body armour, or perhaps the Peebles Beltane festival, where one of IPA visitors from the USA will be attending.
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