Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Training

I did a one day training session today. It was really useful. First I practiced slow movement of the bike and relearnt the correct use of clutch, throttle and brakes to control speed and turns at junctions and bends. Then went out for a ride around Bournemouth in radio contact with my trainer. Then practiced a few things I had trouble with during the ride. And spent a lot of time chatting about all things to do with motorcycling. Picked up a lot of useful tips. All on a one to one basis. The day cost £135. It was worth every penny.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

About Chinese bikes

Reading things like this on the internet is disconcerting:

"The Chinese copies are made on a budget. Although they look just as good when new and parked in a showroom, from my experience they are made from cheaper, low quality, metal, paint, zinc plating, chrome, plastic, etc. IMO, avoid"


"The Chinese clones are very good. Expect to scrap them when they get to about 18 months old though! I spoke to a guy at the MOT place and he said every Chinese bike that came for it's first MOT (3 years old) was a failure and the cost to put it back on the road made it a write off. Every single one!"


Reading stuff like this prompts two reactions. The first is to get another bike as quickly as possible. The second is to resolve to keep the bike for three years and be able to report it got through the MOT. I do have a very large shed I could keep it when I get another bike which I may well do in the next few months.

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Speed

The Lifan easily reaches 45-50 mph. I wouldn't even want to push it much faster. As someone who has driven cars for nearly 50 years, averaging a speeding offence about every four years - the last thing I need is a powerful motorcycle!

Stll taking things easily. It's now run smoothly for 750 kilometres.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Monday, June 13, 2011

MPG!

My first 380 miles have been done at 124mpg! I get 33mpg from my Lexus and 44mpg from a Honda Jazz. On sunny days, it's no contest.