What an emotional roller coaster. I felt a bit emotional when you said goodbye to Ben. I’m glad he got home safe and it will have added to his experience. Love to you both.
So so sorry to see this. I can see how truly gutted you are just in your voice and eyes. Such a shock and even more disappointed in insurance company's who are so bloody quick to take your money but to actually help you out when you need them is appalling. Hope you and your lad are home safe and ince set bsck up will hopefully see you both bscjnon 2 wheels x
Absolutely disgusting, I really feel your pain. Special trip too, doing it with your son. Hopefully you get everything sorted out with your insurance and you get back biking soon. Be positive, don’t let these individuals spoil what you enjoy. I’ll keep everything crossed for you, just leaves me completely numb, why anyone could bring so much pain and stress . Take care, best wishes. Remember Full Comp Insurance - No Better Or No Worse when it comes to settlement!
Damn ! watched the 2 episodes. what a terrible way to start your yourney... thmx for sharing. a lot to be learned for us motor travellers... Hope you get compensated for the loss of the bmw...wish you all the luck...
Such a shock and a difficult circumstance to deal with, you did well. I hope that your Son arrived home safely. Some of this video filming had a bit of “Million Dollar Bogan” about it 😉
Steve my heart went out to you on that journey to CDG. Naffed off and with a heavy bag in motorcycle clothes etc. nightmare. Hopefully you’re both home now in one piece. Best wishes. 👍
Fine sentiment from your partner. You never know what life throws at you. These events will make a big chapter in your book of life. In the years to come you will dine out on this story.
Hope you are ok after this traumatising trip . Such a shame it happened to you both . There will be other journeys keep your chin up . I think you handled it so bravely.
A hard watch if I’m honest Steve !! Not something I enjoyed, I know how I’d feel if it happened to me. You home safe and sound , and Your son made it too. Till next time … let’s av it 👍 Mark
So heart wrenching to watch Steve, your pain was felt by all that watched I’m sure. Have seen a couple of your updates since and things aren’t so black at the moment (rain clouds above a Bonnie excepted tho) onwards and upwards, and has already been mentioned, thankfully both you and your lad are all ok! Stay safe.
Hi Steve, I'm so sorry to see your video of your bike being stolen, I am heading to Spain with my son in two weeks for the first time and I can feel your pain and disappointment. I do though have a 2015 GSA 1200 TE for sale. I've owned it since new and enjoyed my touring on it but changed for a new bike , too much to tell you on you tube, it is immaculate and has extras and available immediately. If you are interested please reply and perhaps we can connect I can give you all the details.
This is awful for you to go through I hope insurance isn't ridiculous to you, seeing you worry about your son riding alone is heartfelt, my dad used to ride and worries about me riding. Hope this donation helps at least a bit, I'll be triple locking my bike after watching this, wish we didnt have to though. Best wishes
Absolutely gutted for you, Steve. Firstly, I hope Ben made it home safe and sound. Hopefully, you'll be mobile again really soon, and you can put this sorry episode behind you, and we can all enjoy the 2 wheel dreamer on the bike again.... Keep us all posted....❤
Thoughts are with you and your son. Well done negotiating Charles de Gaulle, nightmare airport. Keep positive, dreadful situation but there are many more adventures in front of you and a keen audience waiting to share them with you.
They say Things always happen for a reason Steve, im sure it will present itself later why this has happened, proper gutted for you, insurance company will you still stick with them as they were glad to take the money but not help, you and your boy ride safe mate
It never rains Steve, that journey home looked tough bet you were glad to see your bed that night. Good luck for the future and l9ok forward to seeing more videos.
Hi Steve, This vlog was definitely an emotional journey especially for you, but for us as well. A Motorbike is not just a bike it is part of you and has supported you on your journeys in the past. i can fully understand you not wanting it back and all the other costs associated with someone taking it. A tracker is a must at least that gives you some hope of retrieving your precious bike back and as you said if you are out of sight of your bike you lock it. i hope you get yourself sorted with another bike soon and get chance to at least salvage some time with your son going forward. i am sure i speak for everyone, but we are behind you going forward. Take care my friend.
What a horrible, sinking feeling in the pit of one's stomach. I can relate, having had my car stolen. I feel so bad for you; but I know you'll bounce back.
Steve, I have seen a lot of videos on social media of GSs/GSAs being wheelied by teenagers in shorts and flipflops (presumably somewhere in south America??) so there is clearly an epidemic of GS thefts in particular. (The videos also feature Honda Africa Twins). I feel your pain dude. Such a shame this theft spoiled your father & son trip / holiday. I have been bike touring on GSs/GSAs for years and used to park pretty much anywhere, but this summer, I only used 'secure parking' underneath / inside hotels for this very reason. I don't even own a lock - but I am going to get one now. Watching your video there, I found myself saying " take the bike jacket off and drink some water"! That looked arduous with the bag / heat etc! Here's hoping that you are able to get another bike soon - one way or another and indeed to get some father / son time away on bikes before the summer season is over. Best of luck with the insurance claim, sourcing another bike and the channel. All the best.
Steve, been watching and subscribed to your channel for a while now, I started the videos from oldest first so only just seen this one. My heart goes out to you it really does. A bike is like a part of you, non bikers won't understand, but I do. I hope you get a new bike soon and can get back to what you love doing. As for Bennett's ( who I am currently insured with) I will definitely not be renewing with them next year, bloody disgraceful how you've been treated.
Hi Dave, you are completely right… with each passing mile a bike does indeed become a part of you; it’s one of the things that makes losing a bike so horrible… It took a month, with a pretty major blip mid-way, but the claim is now settled and in two weeks I will be posting a new bike reveal video. Just a matter of building up all those memories again! Thanks for watching and for your subscription, I really appreciate it 😊
Good to see a video of how you were able to deal with the bad way your trip ended. Its a reminder that touring is great but when something goes wrong, you can be stuck in a very bad situation. I used to like travelling by plane and trains around Europe but having done a couple of bike trips I would find it hard to go back to travelling that way. Dragging luggage around, racing to catch a train or get to airport check in is a real pain when compared to just loading up your bike and going where ever whenever you want to. I`ll be very wary about where I park my bike from now on when I am travelling.
Came across video by chance. The video was so good I felt I lived it too. The emotion of the theft the carry of luggage to train I felt your pain. So glad you are safe and sorted. You handled the situation in true British fashion. Keep calm and carry on.
So sorry to hear about your bike. I saw the first episode on my last day in France on my 6 month old R1250RT and it stung me into thinking about adding additional security. I ordered a Monimoto tracker and fitted it the day I got back deep in the bowls of the RT where hopefully it won't be found. At least I would have an idea where it is if its stolen - how I would get it back is another question. If nothing else your story will make others think along similar lines. Good luck I have enjoyed your videos
Hi Steve. Cant deny that I feel even more for you now after watching your trip to the airport. Hope your lad arrived home safe and well. I know that motorcycle insurance is not cheap (unless you are ancient like I am plus living out in the boonies) however there is only one good thing that comes out of this nightmare and that is everyone needs to pay a little extra for their insurance and have your no claims discount guaranteed. This is especially true if you are young or live in a busy city. I totally accept that people have budgets but PLEASE can everyone pay that little bit extra and so you keep your NCD. Best Tim. PS I live in Argyll and Bute and the roads are fantastic BUT dont camp due to the midges!!
NCD would mean F all I'm afraid. A total loss due to theft ramps up premiums more than an accident causing a right off. It is an insurers biggest risk in the UK and Europe for insuring motorcycles as they know the police don't give a Sht. So max no claims would not make much difference. The worst part of it is even if they do not pay a penny for whatever reason it still stays on the insurance data base as a total loss claim in your name for 5 years !!! which is a scandal.
The reason I mentioned paying a slight increase in guaranteeing you NCB is that Steve said that he did not have this and his premium would go up. He would also have his NCB reduced hence costing him even more when insuring a replacement bike as from memory when you have a total loss your policy is ended.
Sorry for your loss of bike,what a nightmare for feel for you. Me and my son do trips into Europe but I can’t imagine how bad you boys must feel. Just a thing we do is get camping or air b&bs in remoter locations rather than urban areas
I'm so sorry to hear this, Steve. What a sickening thing to happen while you start out on your adventure. I arrived home today from a four-day ride with my son through France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. I can imagine how I would have felt if I faced that experience as I went out to find my bike gone. I hope you get a new one soon though, and it doesn't put you off adventuring.
Terrible start and end to your trip with Ben, but at least no one was hurt and you got home safe but very stressed. A life lesson for you both, when we go on a bike trip some stay with the bikes while the others book in and sort bags and rooms until the bikes are locked and secured preferably with secureparking. Hopefully your insurance will cover the loss and you can get a newer GS with a tracker and a monster chain and lock.
A very difficult one to watch Steve, but as your partner says you and Ben are safe, and that's the main thing. Fingers crossed all works out. I hope the next episode has some good news.
I’m a month late and I know you have now got a new bike but I just wanted to say how very sorry that you had to go through that. I felt sick watching the other episode when you discovered it had been stolen, and I cried watching this one as it was clear how upset you were. I hope your son managed ok on his own. I don’t suppose it helps nor matters but there was a white van in the car park where your accommodation was, on the footage of that episode. Ok maybe a coincidence but too obvious and how did they know. You’ll probably not get the answers and need to move on from this, but I will now never leave my bike not chained, locked etc. when going on trips. Moving forwards, happy times to you both on future bike trips 🫶🏼
Thank you so much, it was a tough time but thankfully neither of us were hurt and Ben made his way home without any problems. Managing to salvage our trip with a borrowed bike and a blast around Scotland was such a help too. Yes, I now have a replacement bike which I am starting to create memories with and moving forward my motorcycling life is one of chains, disc locks and trackers. Safe travels 😁
I am so so sorry to hear, such a shame. I hope your son arrived home safely and you both do the trip again. These trips with father and son are so important ❤
Thank you, yes, Ben got home safely and we managed to salvage a closer to home trip courtesy of a borrowed bike (this week’s episode) and we are planning to visit the Black Forest together when we next get a chance… 😊
I hate flying and would have got the Euro Star once in Paris Hope you got home OK I still have a second BMW GS backup bike for my blood Running and you are welcome to borrow it for a few weeks while you sort out a permanent new bike its fitted with a tracker
Hi Steve. I'm really sorry for your loss and ruined holiday, but often out of these awful experiences comes something better! I know you had a really bad headache and I feel that would have been because you were really dehydrated. It's so important to drink lots of water, especially when travelling, and coffee, sugar and wheat will really dehydrate you further, even though they give you a temporary lift! I hope you don't mind me mentioning! I hope your son gets more than a disc lock for his bike, and that you managed a bit of a holiday together. All the best for the future and thanks for the videos. 🤗
Losing your bike is bad enough. But all part of the adventure. I once broke down in a company van in Helsinki, engine so no quick fix. Getting back to Warwickshire was an adventure.
Feel gutted for you Steve, Firstly hope Ben gets home safely. My last few tours have been sort of failures but nothing as bad as yours. Just hope you get something sorted without costing to much. Liked and subbed.
I think that I would have taken the train straight to Calais then crossed as a foot passenger. Much easier than messing around with flights and airports. I’m looking forward to hearing how this all pans out and hope to see you back on two wheels soon.
Hi steve so sorry about this as i know how much ben was looking forward to this trip when i see him. He used to work with me and is a great lad , hope you can get the insurance sorted and get a new bike to carry on your two's adventures.
You are so right about not wanting it back, unless it cam back 24 hours later it just wouldn't feel right. It's very personal. Insurance is never satisfying even if logically fair, the miles you put on, and the regular maintenance can't be replaced. Buying someone else's high mileage bike isn't the same. Plus accessories aren't usually covered.
Sorry to hear about your theft, we had two motorcycles stolen in France, Lyon in June, outside best western hotel, the security barrier was left open all night and the cctv was switched off at midnight, the manager was useless, didn't want to know, the police didn't want to come out to investigate the crime, luckily we had apple air tags on them, and managed to track them 32 miles away to a real rough area in city, blocks of flats, full of migrants, we found them in a stairway behind some doors, damage to steering locks and body work, but managed to get them out and carry on with our journey without any problems, we rang the police when we found the bikes, they said it's not safe for English there, leave the bikes and go, what😢very common in France motorcycle theft, they put the bikes on skates then straight in a van.
I feel for you. I know from experience that the theft is an emotional feeling plus a period of disbelief. I had a car stolen outside my flat many years ago and kept thinking irrationally maybe I had parked it somewhere else. I thought you handled the situation very well - I would have been ranting and raving.
Each year on my European bike adventures I really fear two main things, punctures (tubed tyres) and actual bike theft, it’s always on my mind and has stopped me visiting some locations where leaving the bike isn’t particularly safe to do so. I do wonder if your bike was more attractive to the thieves as it had the luggage boxes on it??? Also the thought crossed my mind that the thieves could be linked to the accommodation you were staying at and therefore being aware of your arrival, I personally avoid lock box entry as prefer to meet the owner, and have only once used street parking with the accommodation as always choose those with onsite parking. Hindsight is a wonderful thing and I know my comments are of no use to you now. It’s a sad world we live in where scumbags seem to want to destroy our dreams and hard earned pleasures. Good luck in obtaining a new bike and hopefully you and your son can enjoy the open road soon.
I really feel for you. Wife and I both have a GS each and we spent three months this winter riding to Tenerife. We have trackers and multiple locks and theft was always a worry but we both agreed we would have done exactly what you did and left the bike while we unpacked and we have done many times. Only using the security when we park the bikes up at the end of the day. Seriously bad luck
I bet all your subscribers (including me) could afford to send a couple of pounds - crowd fund and hey presto you will have another bike - just a suggestion
Many of us already have in the hope that it softens the impact of what has happened. What a horrible experience. I hope the thieves get some payback for what they have done!
Gutted for you guys, uk immigrant to France for five years I leave my bike everywhere, but I live 5 mins from Mont st Michel I wouldn’t leave it unchained / unsecured in say Rennes centre or Caen centre but here in my bit of France theft is very very rare thank goodness, toured Europe every year twice a year for nearly 26years all over Europe only ever been anxious when forced to stop in city centres the the chain lock etc comes out and I always ask for a ground floor room and park the bike outside the window. Sorry my adopted country has let you down, best of luck. …. Pete🇫🇷
I truly feel for you. It's never nice taking public transport, let alone in these circumstances. I really hope you can get another bike and have a ride with your son
Hi Steve. Society fails to appreciate the implications of crime on itself. You are one of many that day to have been subject to the actions of a lowlife and I'm sorry that you had to go through it. Vehicle theft doesn't attract the penalty it warrants. If we were tougher on the bad of society, the quality of life for the good would improve. Anyway, hope things are on the up. Move on and stay positive. As someone once said, " let's av it." 👍
Absolutely feeling sick for you. I can imagine how any of us would feel, that awful feeling in the pit of your stomach. Not only the loss of your bike but for your first trip away with your son ruined so callously just rubs salt in the wound. These thieving lowlife give no thought to the hassles they cause. It’s not just the loss of your property which you’ve worked hard to pay for etc but, as you point out, the uninsured losses, the additional costs to you going forward and all of that alongside the emotional distress which is clear in your film… my heart goes out to you 😢 I do hope the insurance company plays ball and doesn’t start getting silly over the bike not being locked etc as clearly they would have taken it regardless, straight into the back of their van 🤬
I'm sure the insurance company will have to change their decision once they learn French. You obviously got back to the UK ok ( unless you are editing this Noraly style) Be careful what you say as others have said insurance companies will use it against you . Good luck with your progress .
Damn, that really sucks- sorry to hear this 😕 When I'm travelling it's always 2x locks and the alarm, even in secure parking. Forget the fate idea, it's just bad luck. Time to pick out the next bike 😉
Painful to watch... especially when your were talking about missing out on the road trip with your lad. I'm not sure I "liked" this video, but its getting a thumbs up anyway! All the very best, G
I feel frustrated and angry that some low down ....... could ruin a very important holiday. I hope you can start your adventure soon. To prevent this from being done to my motorcycle, I have 1 alarm attached to my cover, 1 alarm that I put On the front wheel to lock it plus a kill switch wired to the battery. This shuts of all power going to the engine hidden in a secret place. Very cheap and easy to install I hope you are back on the road soon.
In respect of LV, insurance is a contract of the utmost good faith. If it is not specifically excluded, it is deemed to be included. Further their licence to trade requires them to treat customers fairly. I know you have lots to deal with, advise them you will make a formal complaint. Also, never let your helmet go in an aircraft hold, compensation is based upon weight, a £1,000 helmet = £32 ! Some airlines refuse to allow it as hand luggage as it doesn't fit within the dimensions. Answer is to wear it on top of your head, it's now a hat. Good luck.
Absolute gutter mate I feel your pain I had my GS1250 Adv stolen from outside the hotel in Central Reims a couple of months ago . The police said it was becoming common. My bike was chained to three other bikes with the steering lock on . I hope you get another one sorted soon 👍
As an aside, if the insurance company pay out quickly , and then your bike is found, technically it belongs to the insurance company so is their problem to repatriate or pay storage charges.
Oh gosh, my heart goes out to you. What an awful thing to happen. 😢 This is an sickening thing to happen whilst you and your son are on a touring trip together. I really hope you get your bike back or get those scumbags who did this to you! Heart breaking 😢I do hope you get your bike back or found. Fingers crossed for you brother!
Makes me very wary of where I'll park in future, not sure how much use locks are, easily cut with a cordless angle grinder. I'd imagine rural areas should be much safer. Also makes me think an older less valuable bike as well as being easier to repair and less complex stuff to go wrong is also less attractive to thieves.
What an emotional roller coaster. I felt a bit emotional when you said goodbye to Ben. I’m glad he got home safe and it will have added to his experience.
Love to you both.
Thank you, that is so kind 🙏
Hi Steve how you have kept so calm is beyond me , hope you are feeling better and hope you get a bike soon
Good luck!
That’s so kind ❤
Thank you so much 🙏
Fair play to you Steve for filming this. Nightmare pal, nightmare. All the best going forward....
So so sorry to see this. I can see how truly gutted you are just in your voice and eyes. Such a shock and even more disappointed in insurance company's who are so bloody quick to take your money but to actually help you out when you need them is appalling. Hope you and your lad are home safe and ince set bsck up will hopefully see you both bscjnon 2 wheels x
I hear you, travel is no fun anymore on planes, trains, ect. I am 78 & still happy on my motorcycle.
Well done Steve for filming, I’m sure many of us would have binned it , and just got home.
Keeping everything crossed, you both get home ok and get sorted .Get insurance sorted and another set of wheels 🤞
Absolutely disgusting, I really feel your pain. Special trip too, doing it with your son. Hopefully you get everything sorted out with your insurance and you get back biking soon. Be positive, don’t let these individuals spoil what you enjoy.
I’ll keep everything crossed for you, just leaves me completely numb, why anyone could bring so much pain and stress . Take care, best wishes. Remember Full Comp Insurance - No Better Or No Worse when it comes to settlement!
Damn ! watched the 2 episodes. what a terrible way to start your yourney... thmx for sharing. a lot to be learned for us motor travellers... Hope you get compensated for the loss of the bmw...wish you all the luck...
Such a shock and a difficult circumstance to deal with, you did well. I hope that your Son arrived home safely.
Some of this video filming had a bit of “Million Dollar Bogan” about it 😉
Steve my heart went out to you on that journey to CDG. Naffed off and with a heavy bag in motorcycle clothes etc. nightmare. Hopefully you’re both home now in one piece. Best wishes. 👍
Hope Ben got home safely and that insurance company shouldn’t use any excuse not to pay up !
Gutted for you. You seem close to tears, it's horrible but no one is physically hurt and you will bounce back from this. 👍
So sorry to view this, I hope it all gets sorted for you.
Fine sentiment from your partner. You never know what life throws at you. These events will make a big chapter in your book of life. In the years to come you will dine out on this story.
Hope you are ok after this traumatising trip . Such a shame it happened to you both . There will be other journeys keep your chin up . I think you handled it so bravely.
A hard watch if I’m honest Steve !!
Not something I enjoyed, I know how I’d feel if it happened to me.
You home safe and sound , and Your son made it too.
Till next time … let’s av it 👍
Mark
So heart wrenching to watch Steve, your pain was felt by all that watched I’m sure. Have seen a couple of your updates since and things aren’t so black at the moment (rain clouds above a Bonnie excepted tho) onwards and upwards, and has already been mentioned, thankfully both you and your lad are all ok! Stay safe.
Thank you, yes, onwards and upwards 😊
Hi Steve, I'm so sorry to see your video of your bike being stolen, I am heading to Spain with my son in two weeks for the first time and I can feel your pain and disappointment.
I do though have a 2015 GSA 1200 TE for sale.
I've owned it since new and enjoyed my touring on it but changed for a new bike , too much to tell you on you tube, it is immaculate and has extras and available immediately.
If you are interested please reply and perhaps we can connect I can give you all the details.
This is awful for you to go through I hope insurance isn't ridiculous to you, seeing you worry about your son riding alone is heartfelt, my dad used to ride and worries about me riding.
Hope this donation helps at least a bit, I'll be triple locking my bike after watching this, wish we didnt have to though.
Best wishes
Thank you, this is so, so kind 🙏
You’ve faced worse on your travels, your inner strength and resolve will get you through
Gutted for you Steve, I’d feel the same way ……… hope you and your son manage to salvage a ride together 👍
So sorry for you, and you are brave enough to film your trip back, I really hope for you that you will get a bike to ride with your son.
Absolutely gutted for you, Steve. Firstly, I hope Ben made it home safe and sound. Hopefully, you'll be mobile again really soon, and you can put this sorry episode behind you, and we can all enjoy the 2 wheel dreamer on the bike again....
Keep us all posted....❤
Thoughts are with you and your son. Well done negotiating Charles de Gaulle, nightmare airport. Keep positive, dreadful situation but there are many more adventures in front of you and a keen audience waiting to share them with you.
They say Things always happen for a reason Steve, im sure it will present itself later why this has happened, proper gutted for you, insurance company will you still stick with them as they were glad to take the money but not help, you and your boy ride safe mate
I am so sorry for you, all the best. Good luck with sourcing a bike.
It never rains Steve, that journey home looked tough bet you were glad to see your bed that night. Good luck for the future and l9ok forward to seeing more videos.
Good luck for the future new bike....Thanks for the informative videos,stay shiny side up mate...!!!
Thanks Paul, that is so kind 🙏
@TwoWheeledDreamer very welcome...just sorry to see the news of the bike
Hi Steve, This vlog was definitely an emotional journey especially for you, but for us as well. A Motorbike is not just a bike it is part of you and has supported you on your journeys in the past. i can fully understand you not wanting it back and all the other costs associated with someone taking it. A tracker is a must at least that gives you some hope of retrieving your precious bike back and as you said if you are out of sight of your bike you lock it.
i hope you get yourself sorted with another bike soon and get chance to at least salvage some time with your son going forward. i am sure i speak for everyone, but we are behind you going forward. Take care my friend.
Once a bike has been stolen it’s tainted , Also the chances are it’s been abused , ragged & wheelied . No way would I want any stolen vehicle back .
What a horrible, sinking feeling in the pit of one's stomach. I can relate, having had my car stolen. I feel so bad for you; but I know you'll bounce back.
Steve, I have seen a lot of videos on social media of GSs/GSAs being wheelied by teenagers in shorts and flipflops (presumably somewhere in south America??) so there is clearly an epidemic of GS thefts in particular. (The videos also feature Honda Africa Twins). I feel your pain dude. Such a shame this theft spoiled your father & son trip / holiday. I have been bike touring on GSs/GSAs for years and used to park pretty much anywhere, but this summer, I only used 'secure parking' underneath / inside hotels for this very reason. I don't even own a lock - but I am going to get one now. Watching your video there, I found myself saying " take the bike jacket off and drink some water"! That looked arduous with the bag / heat etc! Here's hoping that you are able to get another bike soon - one way or another and indeed to get some father / son time away on bikes before the summer season is over. Best of luck with the insurance claim, sourcing another bike and the channel. All the best.
This was another tough one to watch Steve. Really feel for you and Ben. Fingers crossed LV do the honourable thing.
Steve, been watching and subscribed to your channel for a while now, I started the videos from oldest first so only just seen this one. My heart goes out to you it really does. A bike is like a part of you, non bikers won't understand, but I do. I hope you get a new bike soon and can get back to what you love doing. As for Bennett's ( who I am currently insured with) I will definitely not be renewing with them next year, bloody disgraceful how you've been treated.
Hi Dave, you are completely right… with each passing mile a bike does indeed become a part of you; it’s one of the things that makes losing a bike so horrible… It took a month, with a pretty major blip mid-way, but the claim is now settled and in two weeks I will be posting a new bike reveal video. Just a matter of building up all those memories again! Thanks for watching and for your subscription, I really appreciate it 😊
@@TwoWheeledDreamer oooooh can't wait to see what you got. Well done my man ride safe
Good to see a video of how you were able to deal with the bad way your trip ended. Its a reminder that touring is great but when something goes wrong, you can be stuck in a very bad situation.
I used to like travelling by plane and trains around Europe but having done a couple of bike trips I would find it hard to go back to travelling that way. Dragging luggage around, racing to catch a train or get to airport check in is a real pain when compared to just loading up your bike and going where ever whenever you want to.
I`ll be very wary about where I park my bike from now on when I am travelling.
Gutted for you both. Hope you and Ben get the chance to ride together again very soon. Very best wishes
Thanks
That’s so kind ❤
Thank you so much🙏
Came across video by chance. The video was so good I felt I lived it too. The emotion of the theft the carry of luggage to train I felt your pain. So glad you are safe and sorted. You handled the situation in true British fashion. Keep calm and carry on.
Thank you Colin, I appreciate your kind words 😊
So sorry to hear about your bike. I saw the first episode on my last day in France on my 6 month old R1250RT and it stung me into thinking about adding additional security. I ordered a Monimoto tracker and fitted it the day I got back deep in the bowls of the RT where hopefully it won't be found. At least I would have an idea where it is if its stolen - how I would get it back is another question. If nothing else your story will make others think along similar lines. Good luck I have enjoyed your videos
I feel absolutely gutted for you man, I hope all turns out ok as it can be, take care of yourself and good luck
Hi Steve. Cant deny that I feel even more for you now after watching your trip to the airport. Hope your lad arrived home safe and well. I know that motorcycle insurance is not cheap (unless you are ancient like I am plus living out in the boonies) however there is only one good thing that comes out of this nightmare and that is everyone needs to pay a little extra for their insurance and have your no claims discount guaranteed. This is especially true if you are young or live in a busy city. I totally accept that people have budgets but PLEASE can everyone pay that little bit extra and so you keep your NCD. Best Tim. PS I live in Argyll and Bute and the roads are fantastic BUT dont camp due to the midges!!
NCD would mean F all I'm afraid. A total loss due to theft ramps up premiums more than an accident causing a right off. It is an insurers biggest risk in the UK and Europe for insuring motorcycles as they know the police don't give a Sht. So max no claims would not make much difference. The worst part of it is even if they do not pay a penny for whatever reason it still stays on the insurance data base as a total loss claim in your name for 5 years !!! which is a scandal.
The reason I mentioned paying a slight increase in guaranteeing you NCB is that Steve said that he did not have this and his premium would go up. He would also have his NCB reduced hence costing him even more when insuring a replacement bike as from memory when you have a total loss your policy is ended.
Sorry for your loss of bike,what a nightmare for feel for you. Me and my son do trips into Europe but I can’t imagine how bad you boys must feel. Just a thing we do is get camping or air b&bs in remoter locations rather than urban areas
I'm so sorry to hear this, Steve. What a sickening thing to happen while you start out on your adventure. I arrived home today from a four-day ride with my son through France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. I can imagine how I would have felt if I faced that experience as I went out to find my bike gone. I hope you get a new one soon though, and it doesn't put you off adventuring.
Video of a broken man right there! I can hear it in your voice! Chin up mate
Terrible start and end to your trip with Ben, but at least no one was hurt and you got home safe but very stressed. A life lesson for you both, when we go on a bike trip some stay with the bikes while the others book in and sort bags and rooms until the bikes are locked and secured preferably with secureparking. Hopefully your insurance will cover the loss and you can get a newer GS with a tracker and a monster chain and lock.
Gutted for you Steve chin up keep the great vids🙏
A very difficult one to watch Steve, but as your partner says you and Ben are safe, and that's the main thing. Fingers crossed all works out. I hope the next episode has some good news.
I’m a month late and I know you have now got a new bike but I just wanted to say how very sorry that you had to go through that. I felt sick watching the other episode when you discovered it had been stolen, and I cried watching this one as it was clear how upset you were. I hope your son managed ok on his own. I don’t suppose it helps nor matters but there was a white van in the car park where your accommodation was, on the footage of that episode. Ok maybe a coincidence but too obvious and how did they know. You’ll probably not get the answers and need to move on from this, but I will now never leave my bike not chained, locked etc. when going on trips. Moving forwards, happy times to you both on future bike trips 🫶🏼
Thank you so much, it was a tough time but thankfully neither of us were hurt and Ben made his way home without any problems. Managing to salvage our trip with a borrowed bike and a blast around Scotland was such a help too. Yes, I now have a replacement bike which I am starting to create memories with and moving forward my motorcycling life is one of chains, disc locks and trackers. Safe travels 😁
Tracker or AirTag would be a wise move and also a liteloc or good quality lock and as you said lock them together.
I am so so sorry to hear, such a shame.
I hope your son arrived home safely and you both do the trip again. These trips with father and son are so important ❤
Thank you, yes, Ben got home safely and we managed to salvage a closer to home trip courtesy of a borrowed bike (this week’s episode) and we are planning to visit the Black Forest together when we next get a chance… 😊
I hate flying and would have got the Euro Star once in Paris
Hope you got home OK
I still have a second BMW GS backup bike for my blood Running and you are welcome to borrow it for a few weeks while you sort out a permanent new bike its fitted with a tracker
Nice touch mate ❤
That’s so kind.
Thank you, that is so kind. Luckily my partner has lent me her old Bonneville, thank you once again 🙏
@TwoWheeledDreamer glad you are sorted and look forward to more of your adventures I'm out Blood Running tomorrow
Stay safe John
Hi Steve.
I'm really sorry for your loss and ruined holiday, but often out of these awful experiences comes something better!
I know you had a really bad headache and I feel that would have been because you were really dehydrated.
It's so important to drink lots of water, especially when travelling, and coffee, sugar and wheat will really dehydrate you further, even though they give you a temporary lift!
I hope you don't mind me mentioning!
I hope your son gets more than a disc lock for his bike, and that you managed a bit of a holiday together.
All the best for the future and thanks for the videos. 🤗
Gillian; I tell him all the time 😂
What a nightmare. And I fully agree with other subscribers to pay all a bit of money and help you getting a new bike.
proper gutted for you!! and to carry on filming must be heartbreaking. hope everything gets sorted out
Losing your bike is bad enough. But all part of the adventure. I once broke down in a company van in Helsinki, engine so no quick fix. Getting back to Warwickshire was an adventure.
Feel gutted for you Steve, Firstly hope Ben gets home safely. My last few tours have been sort of failures but nothing as bad as yours. Just hope you get something sorted without costing to much.
Liked and subbed.
Sending you positive vibes dude, so sad what happened, hope to see you back on two wheels very soon.
Absolutely gutted for you mate but you're in one piece good luck for the future !
I think that I would have taken the train straight to Calais then crossed as a foot passenger. Much easier than messing around with flights and airports. I’m looking forward to hearing how this all pans out and hope to see you back on two wheels soon.
That was too expensive for Steve I am afraid David.
I’m so sorry for your loss I too would be devastated, I won’t let my bike out of my sight which is why I camp
Hi steve so sorry about this as i know how much ben was looking forward to this trip when i see him. He used to work with me and is a great lad , hope you can get the insurance sorted and get a new bike to carry on your two's adventures.
Hey buddy, sorry to see this. Please keep us updated on how it all pans out, insurance and payouts and all sorts.
You are so right about not wanting it back, unless it cam back 24 hours later it just wouldn't feel right. It's very personal. Insurance is never satisfying even if logically fair, the miles you put on, and the regular maintenance can't be replaced. Buying someone else's high mileage bike isn't the same. Plus accessories aren't usually covered.
I really feel for you.
Sorry to hear about your theft, we had two motorcycles stolen in France, Lyon in June, outside best western hotel, the security barrier was left open all night and the cctv was switched off at midnight, the manager was useless, didn't want to know, the police didn't want to come out to investigate the crime, luckily we had apple air tags on them, and managed to track them 32 miles away to a real rough area in city, blocks of flats, full of migrants, we found them in a stairway behind some doors, damage to steering locks and body work, but managed to get them out and carry on with our journey without any problems, we rang the police when we found the bikes, they said it's not safe for English there, leave the bikes and go, what😢very common in France motorcycle theft, they put the bikes on skates then straight in a van.
😄 Mine is a chinese whoflung dung when it was stolen. The thieves had no "Taste" 😄
Had it 17 years now, past MOT again this month.👍
Oh man, what a bad luck. Wishing you all the best!
Steve I’m so sorry mate you can see the devastation in you. what scumbags putting you through that I hope all gets sorted buddy 👍🏻👍🏻
Good luck mate
A solicitors letter should kick-start a positive outcome.
LV insurance needs to apologise and get a move on.
I feel for you. I know from experience that the theft is an emotional feeling plus a period of disbelief. I had a car stolen outside my flat many years ago and kept thinking irrationally maybe I had parked it somewhere else. I thought you handled the situation very well - I would have been ranting and raving.
Thank you Ian 🙏
Each year on my European bike adventures I really fear two main things, punctures (tubed tyres) and actual bike theft, it’s always on my mind and has stopped me visiting some locations where leaving the bike isn’t particularly safe to do so. I do wonder if your bike was more attractive to the thieves as it had the luggage boxes on it??? Also the thought crossed my mind that the thieves could be linked to the accommodation you were staying at and therefore being aware of your arrival, I personally avoid lock box entry as prefer to meet the owner, and have only once used street parking with the accommodation as always choose those with onsite parking. Hindsight is a wonderful thing and I know my comments are of no use to you now. It’s a sad world we live in where scumbags seem to want to destroy our dreams and hard earned pleasures. Good luck in obtaining a new bike and hopefully you and your son can enjoy the open road soon.
Absolutely gutted for you.
Hope everything gets sorted for you.
I really feel for you. Wife and I both have a GS each and we spent three months this winter riding to Tenerife. We have trackers and multiple locks and theft was always a worry but we both agreed we would have done exactly what you did and left the bike while we unpacked and we have done many times. Only using the security when we park the bikes up at the end of the day. Seriously bad luck
I bet all your subscribers (including me) could afford to send a couple of pounds - crowd fund and hey presto you will have another bike - just a suggestion
I agree 👍
Great idea.
Many of us already have in the hope that it softens the impact of what has happened. What a horrible experience. I hope the thieves get some payback for what they have done!
@@NK-dl2ncdoubtful 🙄
100% I’m here from the GS uk page! Someone suggested it on there!
Gutted for you guys, uk immigrant to France for five years I leave my bike everywhere, but I live 5 mins from Mont st Michel I wouldn’t leave it unchained / unsecured in say Rennes centre or Caen centre but here in my bit of France theft is very very rare thank goodness, toured Europe every year twice a year for nearly 26years all over Europe only ever been anxious when forced to stop in city centres the the chain lock etc comes out and I always ask for a ground floor room and park the bike outside the window. Sorry my adopted country has let you down, best of luck. …. Pete🇫🇷
I truly feel for you. It's never nice taking public transport, let alone in these circumstances. I really hope you can get another bike and have a ride with your son
Hope BMW come through for you & the insurance company play ball. If your in Scotland riding give us a shout x
Hi Steve.
Society fails to appreciate the implications of crime on itself. You are one of many that day to have been subject to the actions of a lowlife and I'm sorry that you had to go through it. Vehicle theft doesn't attract the penalty it warrants. If we were tougher on the bad of society, the quality of life for the good would improve.
Anyway, hope things are on the up. Move on and stay positive.
As someone once said, " let's av it." 👍
Sorry to hear this,i am sure you'll bounce back,all the best.
Unreal! All the best man!
Thank you Bob
Absolutely feeling sick for you. I can imagine how any of us would feel, that awful feeling in the pit of your stomach. Not only the loss of your bike but for your first trip away with your son ruined so callously just rubs salt in the wound. These thieving lowlife give no thought to the hassles they cause. It’s not just the loss of your property which you’ve worked hard to pay for etc but, as you point out, the uninsured losses, the additional costs to you going forward and all of that alongside the emotional distress which is clear in your film… my heart goes out to you 😢 I do hope the insurance company plays ball and doesn’t start getting silly over the bike not being locked etc as clearly they would have taken it regardless, straight into the back of their van 🤬
I hear you, buddy. Am feeling your pain.
Hope you get home, okay?
When the dust settles it will be alright in the end and if it's not alright. Then it's not the end. Wish you well .
I'm sure the insurance company will have to change their decision once they learn French. You obviously got back to the UK ok ( unless you are editing this Noraly style) Be careful what you say as others have said insurance companies will use it against you . Good luck with your progress .
Painful to watch still Steve my thoughts are with you my friend 🙏🙏
Damn, that really sucks- sorry to hear this 😕 When I'm travelling it's always 2x locks and the alarm, even in secure parking. Forget the fate idea, it's just bad luck. Time to pick out the next bike 😉
Painful to watch... especially when your were talking about missing out on the road trip with your lad. I'm not sure I "liked" this video, but its getting a thumbs up anyway! All the very best, G
You was set up mate
I feel frustrated and angry that some low down ....... could ruin a very important holiday. I hope you can start your adventure soon.
To prevent this from being done to my motorcycle, I have 1 alarm attached to my cover, 1 alarm that I put
On the front wheel to lock it plus a kill switch wired to the battery. This shuts of all power going to the engine hidden in a secret place. Very cheap and easy to install
I hope you are back on the road soon.
I hope you get something sorted soon. I am just down the road from Northampton in Bedford
Had to laugh when you mentioned humanity in Starbucks of all places
In respect of LV, insurance is a contract of the utmost good faith. If it is not specifically excluded, it is deemed to be included. Further their licence to trade requires them to treat customers fairly.
I know you have lots to deal with, advise them you will make a formal complaint.
Also, never let your helmet go in an aircraft hold, compensation is based upon weight, a £1,000 helmet = £32 ! Some airlines refuse to allow it as hand luggage as it doesn't fit within the dimensions. Answer is to wear it on top of your head, it's now a hat.
Good luck.
Absolute gutter mate I feel your pain I had my GS1250 Adv stolen from outside the hotel in Central Reims a couple of months ago .
The police said it was becoming common. My bike was chained to three other bikes with the steering lock on . I hope you get another one sorted soon 👍
Sorry sorry to hear you went through all of this too….
As an aside, if the insurance company pay out quickly , and then your bike is found, technically it belongs to the insurance company so is their problem to repatriate or pay storage charges.
Oh gosh, my heart goes out to you. What an awful thing to happen. 😢 This is an sickening thing to happen whilst you and your son are on a touring trip together. I really hope you get your bike back or get those scumbags who did this to you! Heart breaking 😢I do hope you get your bike back or found. Fingers crossed for you brother!
Gutted for you, words can't express what happened !!!
Makes me very wary of where I'll park in future, not sure how much use locks are, easily cut with a cordless angle grinder.
I'd imagine rural areas should be much safer. Also makes me think an older less valuable bike as well as being easier to repair and less complex stuff to go wrong is also less attractive to thieves.
Gutted for ya m8.
I had a bike stolen it was locked up with a alarm. ( bastards) that was 17 years ago . Ever since then ive had trackers on my bikes