Facing My Fears: Unexpected Pros and Cons of My First Long Ride After CBT
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- Опубліковано 5 лют 2025
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8 weeks after passing my CBT on a 125cc motorbike, I realised that I was in a comfort zone and I had to push my way out of it. I came up with a plan to do a long ride and visit a biker cafe whilst weighing up the pros and cons of being a new rider.
Visit our sister channel all about our motorhome adventures @stchristopherofatlantis
...Give a man a fish and he'll eat for a day... Give a man a motorcycle and he'll eat fish and chips 90 miles away. Ya going great there fella, and most importantly, you have the right attitude
Love this saying 😂😂😂😂
Being present and in the moment is why we love biking. No matter what is going on in your life the moment you get on the bike it’s an escape. Better than any therapy
👍👍
Bluetooth in you helmet, phone in your pocket, not as distracting as looking at your bars. You're lucky to have a wife who is enthusiastic about your biking journey. My last 3 bikes have all had to be black so she doesn't know I've changed them! Good luck with your journey.
This is hilarious 😂😂😂😂👍👍
My dream bike was a ZZR1100. My wife made me get shut after a trip round Denmark,Sweden and Norway because there wasn't enough comfort room for her derriere with the top box and panniers on.
Ended up swapping for an XL1000 which she got on the back of exactly twice!
Tbf the XL was nice but still...
If you're on a bike, whether that be a scooter, 125cc, or 1200cc bikers dont care. Its just great to see people out riding no matter what they ride or their skill level. Great community ❤
Agreed, brilliant community, loving it 👍
Same as others. Phone in pocket, Bluetooth and either google maps or calimoto on phone. Works a treat. Been riding since I was 16 and approaching 60 now and find your channel so refreshing. It’s great to watch your progress and hope it encourages others guys/girls to get biking. Maybe a help to keep a decent amount of steady throttle on and just drag your rear brake when doing your cones. Don’t try to speed up or slow using throttle-clutch and rear brake with steady throttle. Never feel as if your bike’s not big enough or feel nervous with other bikers with your L plate. We love to see new guys. Love the channel!
Thanks for watching 👍👍👍👍
@@mikehughes1965 100% right! You should never worry about what others think... And anyone who tries to make you feel small by having L plates isn't a real biker. Real bikers know what it takes and encourage your efforts! Keep up the great work
Great video Andy, loved listening to the pros and cons. Like you I run my own business and it has basically taken over my life 24 hours a day, this is my main reason for taking my CBT, I need a new interest and of course it will be a brilliant way to get around the Isle of Man. Loved listening to how it allows you to escape. Great stuff.
Thanks for watching 👍
Hi Andy . Blue tooth intercom on side of ya helmet then link up to google maps from your phone . It will talk you the way without having to keep looking at your phone . Reva & Relics great stop and coffee shop . Gary’s lovely and friendly . Julie 4 ft 11 😊 a good quote we always use is
When you’re in your car it feels like watching a movie !
On the bike your in the movie 🎥!!😊 next time you ride over let us know we would meet you both and have a coffee with ya ! 😊
Hi Julie. We will let you know
Sounds good 👍👍👍👍
5:42 yep, not going into gear when stationary is a common thing. No need to panic, and don't try to force it in, just let the clutch out to the bite (not all the way out in case you aren't in neutral) and then pull it back in and you should be able to change gear. You might need to do this several times if going through multiple gears (like if you came to a stop while still in 3rd or 4th). Ideally, change down before you stop, but as a newish rider, or in an emergency, prioritise getting it stopped in time over getting the right gear.
I use this too. The partial bite of the clutch seems to be enough. Partial clutch bite to move the stuck gearbox enough so you can pull the clutch all the way back again and move the foot selector.
@@neilp1885 I find sometimes I need to roll the bike slightly to find a gear. It doesn't happen as often on more expensive bikes but it still happens.
I learnt on a Triumph Tiger 800, and that still did it. Think its just a downside of the sequential gearboxes
Just do it. I love that. I'm 43 and wanted to do it for years but never motivated myself enough, now done CBT and theory in the past 2 weeks and now booked onto my DAS in December. I loved my CBT, it gave me exactly what I thought I would feel, only giving me more motivation to get the DAS done. Great channel, keep up the good work!
Thanks for watching
Let me know how you get on
I've went from big bikes .. 1000cc 1200cc etc to small 125cc great fun .
👍👍
65 years old been riding since 16,every journey is fun and different, a lifelong love affair with motorcycles.For skills try an off-road experience, greatly improves feel , balance,letting the bike slide around without panicking and tensing up, there are some off road experience days advertised all over.worth a try
Hi 👋
As someone who has raced Motocross since 11yrs old. And I Still ride to this day at 48yrs old (just don’t race as much now as it’s all more for fun and fitness nowadays) I agree having an off road adventure experience day be it MX or Enduro with some coaching would play dividends in you bike control and confidence overall.
It really is a different ball game off road, especially on an mx track. When you get back on the road it will feel easy and just constant grip as opposed to no grip off road. There is a lot of differences that don’t cross over between road and off road with things like counter steering etc.
But there is a reason most top road racers all started off riding and racing mx before switching over to big money road racing. A lot of the top boys still do ride a bit of mx for their training and fitness regiment.
I’ve also seen plenty of track road racers give off road a go and quickly realise how much different and difficult it is & they have had their egos brought back to earth with a bang very quickly.
Plenty of places offer taster/trail days. And I can’t stress how much any road biker be it seasoned or a beginner if they have no previous off road experience would benefit from an off road experience day. They would gain so much whilst having a fab day out.
Invest in some decent helmet communication system which are transferable as long as you’re riding so not a bad investment. Bluetooth to your phone in your pocket. No distractions. Sorted. 👍🏻
Just noticed you have a load of messages giving the same advice. Enjoying watching your progress mate, I passed my test in 2006 rode for years then give it up (wife pressures 😊) and just returned to riding last year. Be great to see your misses get into it as well. Have enjoyed your van channel and just watching the “Jammy Gits” channel progress from van life to motorcycles, great content so maybe food for thought for you’s 👍🏻
Sounds good 👍👍👍
Go old school, buy a map book and when you get lost you can find your way home, after all we live on an Island. Great to watch.
👍👍
Once you’ve passed your test and bought the bike of your dreams then biking will become an addiction. My favourite days are trips to the east coast with my wife on the back. ( I’m 55 and passed 2 years ago)
Sounds fantastic 👍👍
There's plenty of options for mounting phones on handlebars, look at the cycling world and choose something suitable. If your helmet doesn't have bluetooth, it can be added quite cheaply. This will give you voice directions, music from your phone and all the other possibilities with use of your phone. Set the satnav vehicle to cycle, not car.
Hi. How are you?
This is good advice and I’m liking the idea of Bluetooth helmet! Have a great week 👍😁
Mastering slow-speed maneuvers is the real measure of a skilled rider and I swear I have to relearn these slow skills every year. Love your attitude and humility. Great video reminding even master riders how vital slow-speed skills are and to practice them often. :)
Hi. Thanks for this and for watching 👍
I’m 56 and doing my theory on Wednesday and my CBT on Thursday. I’ve discovered your channel just at the right time. Thank you.
Best of luck, let me know how you get on.
Good Luck!! i just completed my CBT today you're gonna smash it!!
@@bikerofatlantis got the theory done yesterday and CBT done today, mentally exhausted by really enjoyed it.
@@RiaRei_ got the the theory test done yesterday and CBT done today. Mentally exhausted but loving it. Well done on getting yours.
Others have said, bikes don’t like changing gears at a standstill. Ideally you need to drop to first before stopping.
Best idealistic practice is to slow down to a point a few meters from your stop, rev match into first and use your friction zone to move the last few meters, much like your slow speed practice. This way you always have control over your powerplant.
But honestly most people just drop it into first just before stoping and putting their foot down. Coasting into the stop with the clutch in.
Car and bike clutches are different and you need to unlearn a lifetime of habits from your car driving.
Hi, Thanks for watching 👍👍👍👍
I agree gearing up is a ball ache! A tip: get yourself some gear that makes you more visible on the road mate, ride safe!
Hi, thanks for watching 👋
Love these. Finally found a guy like me. Middle aged and started to ride. So many questions for you. Keep it going mate these videos are keeping me motivated while others say I’m stupid
Not stupid at all. Happy Learning 👍👍
Evening 😊 try a Beeline . The Silver Fox Travels love's them and is selling his old one give him a shout if only for information he's a Yorkshire lad as well 👍
Hi. Will look this up
Thank you for watching 👍
You will just have to do a Jason Bourne and glance at a map as you go. He can do it even when he is getting chased by the Cops. 😂. You are doing great Andy. 👍
This is funny 😂😂😂😂🏍️
Try using a slight weave in your lane when cars present from the side roads, some call it presenting yourself, hopefully makes the car see the movement.
Also try get comfortable doing it in the wet.
Rather than looking the car driver in they eye, look at their tyres, specifically rims if they have a pattern that will let you know if it's moving.
So many things to learn, we are all still learning......
Enjoy the journey as well as the ride.
Hi Thank you for this advice and for watching 👍
Ridden in snow, hail, thunderstorms, wind and sunshine.
I've had a blast regardless what the weather. Yes different conditions mean I have to tackle them differently and I defo did not enjoy getting blown across 3 lanes of a motorway in gale force winds or defrosting my hands on the engine at the end of a ride but I still enjoyed the journey.
I am lucky and live in Wales so a 10 minute jaunt gives me access to endless country roads and that's the natural habitat of a biker 😊 but you have the right idea, grab a copy of MCN, Ride or Bike magazine and they often have UK ride suggestions for you too. Got some cracking loops together thanks to reading that.
I have satnav a Garmin Zumo 390LM but I use that mainly for destination riding, or if im on tour.
I fit it always, but rarely set the destination unless I've played the "Left or Right" game a bit too much and completely lost myself so need a way home.
The other thing that's a must is a bluetooth headset, getting sat nav instructions in your ear is much easier that trying to read a satnav.
I still think you should just get yourself booked on a few days mod1 training. They'll get you doing those slow manoeuvres super quick and easy and if you go to a decent place they'll undoubtedly take you out on the roads. Giving you a little tour of places they like to go to beef up your destination library. If its a confidence thing you're already showing yourself to be a better rider than I recall being when I did mine 20+ years ago 😂 and I was nowhere near the worst on my DAS.
It'll also give you experience of a larger bike and I found it much much easier to complete tight turns on one, rather than a 125, I'm a big lad, I like my pies and a 125 was like balancing on a pin head for me, doing my test on the larger bike was much easier.
Yesss!!! Just caught your most recent video! That's it mate get that mod 1 training under your belt.
Hi. I’m on it 👍👍😂😂😂
I was given some great advice that I've followed for years. Some people say..if you see a car at a junction "Look them in the eye" BUT ..I was told, instead of looking at the driver..look at the vehicles wheel, if that wheel so much as twitches....well, you get the idea. Because if you're looking at the driver it can be a few seconds before you 'compute' that they're moving and those extra seconds can be a life saver. But...each to their own, do what works for you. It's happened to me many times since I was 17, I'm 60 now, so must be doing something right. Lol. Enjoying your videos mate, love the way you and your good lady do the 'talks' to camera, good set up. Best wishes. 'Some Ol' Dude' 👍🙂
Hi Some Ol dude 😂
Great advice, thank you for passing it on
👍👍👍👍
@@bikerofatlantis You're very welcome mate. See you out on the road someday. Best wishes, 'Some Ol' Dude'.(Have sub'd 👍)
Riding a bike gets your mind at peace.. it's called throttle therapy and as for riding a 125 we all started there ,I'm 63 been riding since I was 12 and still absolutely love it, you're doing great kid, ride safe ,but ride 👍🏼🏍️
Thank you for watching 👍
When you stop in third or forth and have to get back into first quick..let clutch in and out a little, between gears. Gives the gears a chance to catch up.
Thanks for this 👍👍
Great stuff 👍👍
Hi. Thanks for watching and this advice
@@bikerofatlantis what's the jacket your wearing?
Hi ya you two, really enjoying your vlogs you do make me laugh. Mind you I thought you were Paddy McGuinness for the first two episodes!!
😂😂😂😂😂😂
My 2024 XMax 300 has bluetooth/app support to show sat-nav on the built in dash screen. It's a bit janky, and because of that I wouldn't use it for local trips, but if I were making a longer trek, I could use it. They make full on handle bar mount sat-nav units, and Carpitude car-play devices that integrate with smart phone sat-nav, but you are not wrong that anything you mount on your handle bars can be lifted by someone with the right tools.
Sounds good 👍
Hiya, I'm Camel, I've been riding for many years in the UK, yes the roads are currently a shitshow, puddles may be deep potholes, take care. You're doing great with your skills and knowledge. May I suggest that you try to let go of the clutch lever when manouvering. I think that will help you steer smoothly. Keep your arms relaxed..like control cables not iron rods. I'm disabled with a lot of pain so I only ride light bikes now, but yes, it's a form of dissociative meditation. My mind has to put all that to one side and focus on everything else but myself . All this and it's a good form of transport too. Cheers mate
Hi camel, thanks for watching
Take it easy 👍
Hi enjoyed your vlog again. Pot holes are not good for any mode of transport, you’ll experience it with your car and motor home too. Each council don’t seem to want anybody driving, but they are not willing to provide good bus or train services. They want people to work but don’t make it easy to get there. Just love Claire’s reaction to the biker cafe, you should get Dora and Pablo biker gear and take them too.🐶🐶🏍🏍👍 As usual stay safe. Jan and Will x
Hi Jan and Will. The cafe was great, we can’t wait to go to another 👍👍
Have a sunny weekend ☀️
If you can't select 1st, release clutch slightly in 2nd until it begins to bite then try 1st again. Get into habit of changing down to first before you stop so you're immediately ready to go.
Thanks for this 👍
Hi Andy. Its going good mate. Youre right, the biggest pain is the getting dressed up bit and taking them all off afterwards but its gotta be done, for the weather and for your own protection should the worst happen.
I use a quadlock with my phone for sat nav if its needed, its very good but not cheap. At least you can move it to your next bike. Great to see the ppo turning into a proper biker chick.
You can clearly see your confidence growing and I lnow the biking community dont look down their noses at anyone, on anything, a bikes a bike. Ride safe mate👍
Hi. How are you. Thanks for watching 👍
I've been following your progress since the start of your journey and you've been doing well mate, we all started the same way and you will build up experience every day, I like the way your wife supports you in presenting your videos and the encouragement she gives, keep going as you are and that dream of a big boys bike will become reality .....👍👏
Thank you
Well done on your “big ride out”. Bikers are a brotherhood. You’re now a biker,welcome to the brotherhood. You will always be welcome where bikers go. ✊👏👏
It’s fantastic, loving it 👍👍
If you feel the bike isn't quite in gear slowly release the clutch to engage the gear, usually 1st or attempting to find neutral 😅
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Revs n relics is a great place, I'm not far from there and head over when I can, top guys and some lovely bikes, have a look online for Rotherham Riders, we won't dislike you for being from Barnsley, they do regular rides and include 125cc friendly rides headed up by competent riders on bigger bikes but they'll take it very steady, I think the next out of comfort zone thing should be a group ride.
😂😂😂😂 sounds good to me
Sat Nav: My 1000SX came with a handlebar phone mount that'll just grip my phone. It's not damped but I'm on a Kawasaki so not necessary. On the phone I just use Google Maps, it'll give me a 3D view, warn of speed cameras, etc. The phone then connects to a Schuberth helmet with the built in bluetooth so I can hear the "In 200 yards, turn left", etc. The phone is mounted behind the screen so I'm not too fussed about rain unless it's torrential.
Hi. Thanks for watching and this advice
Absolutely love my quadlock, it is a bit pricey but that paired with Bluetooth speakers is brilliant. Ive had a RAM mount but it just doesn't compare to quadlocks ease of use. Got it on a stem ball mount so I can just remove the unit in dodgy areas, takes 2 seconds 👍 As for rain, in light rain at speed phone barely gets touched plus they're plenty water resistant these days.
NIce one, I've just got one and I'm going for a ride later so I'm looking forward to seeing how I get on.
Whilst you are still growing with confidence, I would probably use a map and plan those rides. Once you feel more confident, then buy a quad lock bike mount and use your phone with the calimoto app. You get a free version, which is ok to start with. This negates leaving an expensive sat nav on your phone.
👍👍
Doing good Andrew and glad to see you’ve got the biker awareness.
I’ve got sat nav set up on Africa twin but I just put phone on a good phone holder near the screen. I’ve only ever used it for last few miles to destination as most people know basically where they’re going until last bit.
Called in at your cone training ground last Sunday to see if you two were there for a quick chat.
Love Claires enthusiasm with being a bikers wife, haha, 👍
Keep up the good work mate,
Steve, over the hill
Hi Steve, How you doing?
Shame we missed, we are typically out in the motorhome on Sundays. Did you spot Andy’s skid mark 😂😂😂😂
Revs and relics is a good caf, I went there when I passed my cbt many years ago, a lot of the lads there (and ladies) will be able to help with a lot of your early riding niggled.
In terms of a satnav, cheap easy solution is the old Bluetooth helmet and Google maps speaking solution.
Hi 👋 Thanks for watching
Quad lock 100%. If you have a iPhone you don’t need a rain cover. 2 seconds to put phone on and off. My husband and I both have them on our bikes. We have used them for 3 years. Also think about getting a packtalk edge , it will talk to you in your helmet giving you directions when using your maps on your phone.
Hi. Thank you for watching 👍
Quad lock is expensive but the quality is very good. If you are thinking of one I'd wait till black friday, they usually do 30% discount.
Sounds a good idea 👍
Not every driver is out to get you but since you have no way of knowing which one is out to get you, you have to ride like they all are. Don't be afraid to flash your high-beam quickly when coming up on a car in an intersection. Also consider tapping the rear brake a couple times to flash your brake lights before you actually start stopping.
Hi. Thanks for watching and this is all great advice 👍👍
Nothing like watching a helmet on a bike well done 👏 ❤
👍☀️☀️
If gearbox 'jams' just bring the clutch back out to the biting point and it should go straight in. My 125 used to do this sometimes.
Thanks 👍
Yeah it's just the gearbox cog teeth hitting each other instead of meshing nicely. You can also roll the bike forwards or backwards a bit to achieve the same thing. Just need to rotate one of the cogs a bit 👍🏻
Riding has been the biggest help to my mental health since medication. Honestly cannot begin to describe how it works but It's probably akin to meditation. Except your not clearing your mind of everything, it's more like part of your brain is so busy doing this enjoyable task that the other parts of your mind rest, if that makes sense?
Anyone else get what I mean? I find I come back relaxed from a ride out even if I was anxious and down before hand.
Yes 100%
Over ten years ago I picked up a Garmin 350 LM and have used it on many bikes, you could maybe pick one up second hand on fleabay. People do complain that it can be a little slow at times, yet I have found it to be fine and well worth the money, although it was about £350.
When stopped and you can not shift gear either move the bike a little forward or backward and you will be able to change gear.
Riding a bike is the best mental health I have ever come across and I love commuting for exactly this reason.
Agreed. Love it
Beeline app paid for let’s you have audio navigation via headphone and then you won’t need to pay for the £100+ device on the handlebars. It doesn’t reroute you if you go the wrong way which is a negative but then again it doesn’t reroute you while you’re underway like google maps does which is a positive!
I passed my licence, collected my 1980 800cc bike and rode it 100 miles home. I still believe that that long journey straight away is what has made me the comfortable rider I am today. I’ve seen your earlier videos and I’ve got the same hi-top riding boots you had - you’ll never catch your laces so don’t worry!
Hi. Thanks for watching 👍👍
Squires near Sherburn in Elmet is a great bikers cafe. Famous for their pasties & coffee. Everyone walks around all the parked bikes & chit-chats. Really busy in the summer
@mrporkster1617 I went on Thursday afternoon and it was great 👍 plenty of bikes and bikers and lovely grub yum. I'll be back again soon even though it's turning winter 🏍💨💨💨💨💨💨
Claire’s making some plans for a visit soon 👍👍👍👍
Hi steve
@bikerofatlantis Great stuff I think you'll like it 👍
@@bikerofatlantis Hi Andy & Claire 👋🤚👋🤚
Never had the need for a sat nav I no most places I look at Google maps before I go somewhere iam not sure of and as for going to biker cafes we were all learners once and we still learn every time out on the bike your doing all right ride safe
👍👍
Doing great! As a rule, the bike will always go where you are looking (not sure how it works, some kind of mystic woo woo), so when you are doing your manoeuvres, make a conscious effort to look where you want to go (turn your head), and not at where you don't want to go - hedges, over the tops of cones etc.
Thank you, I’m really trying my best to do this but it’s so easy to look at where I don’t want to go 😂
New rider here - I also balked at the cost of the Quad Lock but I bit the bullet and think it’s 100% worth it. The lock is really secure, and you buy the setup once you can take it on whatever bike you have in the future. I bought the lock, vibration dampener and charger (not wireless). It’s slick set up and means not having one more device to worry about I can just use my phone.
Hello fellow new biker! Thanks for watching and this advice
Welcome to the biking community here in the UK, biker cafes are all over the place, Revs and Relics is a local place close to us in Barnsley, If you wanted to go up to Squires on the bike its possible to get there without motorways, and the motorist hub is also close by.
As for the sat nav we have bought a waterproof case from J&S in Doncaster, cost about £15 and clamps to the bars easily and simply clips on and off, used it for the past 2 years with my Samsung phone without problems, so just a suggested option.
Enjoy the bike and enjoy the freedom.
Hi. Thanks for warnings and for this advice
Another fantastic video really enjoying your journey 👍 keep up the great work and keep riding safe 😀😀👍👍
Hi, thanks for watching 👍👍
Mate quality done my cbt in March 23 passed test in Nov 23 got a trk 502 luv it 57 now wish I'd done 30 years ago
Sounds great. Happy travels
Quad lock on my Harley, Google maps and phones waterproof so I've never used a poncho cover. Bluetooth connected to my headset. I've covered hundreds of miles with this set up and it works fine 👍
Sounds a good set up
Quad lock are great loads of options pricey yes but can swap it between bikes etc, link that to a cardo or such and it’s in the lid. Just remember we all started on a small bike and it’s a right of passage! Skills get learnt on the smaller bikes, look at videos of 400’s smashing sports bikes on tracks it’s the skill of the rider not the twist of the wrist. Your doing fantastic keep it up
Thanks for this and for watching
6:14 maybe the clutch needs adjusting, make sure you pull the clutch lever right in. If you pull up (stop) in too high a gear you might need to roll back n forward to assist the gear change. You're doing very well for only been riding that 8 weeks.👍😎👌
Thank you
I've mounted a carpuride w702 to my handlebars. It gives you full android auto to control music see your maps whatever. Love it. Or ram mount an old phone to it. That works great too.
Hi Thank you for watching 👍
Old phone with google maps downloaded or a specitic satnav app doesnt even need wifi or a sim as long the gps works. Top job, nice one
Hi. Thanks for this 👍
@@bikerofatlantis No worries ! I meant to say you dont need data not wifi. Doh.
That was a very scenic ride. I live in the US and often wonder why our roads are so shit considering they're constantly working on them every year.
Same as here then! 👍
Thanks for watching
Love you videos, I am a non biker wife Claire and I love to encourage my hubby, he biked a few years and had to stop but I encouraged him to get another one this year at 61 years young. We have watched some of your van life videos too, you are both such a lovely and genuine couple.
Sorry to say but you are known as "The man from Atlantis" 🤣as I always forget the name of your channel.
Hello Kim biker wife. Claire here
Great to hear from you. Andy loved the bike and it’s great to see him enjoy it
Hope you guys are well and thanks for watching 👍👍👍
If you can’t find 1st move your bike forward and backwards a smidge. That sometimes cracks it. Moman H2 works a treat for me and cheaper than others (Amazon).
Thanks 👍👍
As said i also have a cardo helmet coms, you can bluetooth your phone to it and have voice commands..👍
Thanks for watching
Fab vlog as usual 🤩 biker cafés are fab aren't they?! I like, Claire go via car too 😅 been to a truckstop one today.....love it!
Keep going you're doing brilliantly and most of all keep having fun 😊 x
Hi Wendy. Claire here. Meet you at the cafe 😂😂👍👍
@@bikerofatlantis Perfect! Sounds like we've got the best deal 🤣😂🤣
For satnav, I use an in helmet intercom (midland BTR1). Before I kept my phone in my pocket and just turned Waze on. Let the voice guide me.
Bought myself a 2024 Kawasaki Z900 about 2 weeks ago and have put an optiline mount on it, that also has wireless charging, now I use Waze for my commute, and Kruviger if I want to generate curvy round trips for the motorbike.
Generally, hearing the navigation has been enough to get where I need to go. With the infrequent misunderstanding and taking the wrong exit, but that only happened once or twice.
Now with the phone on the handle bar, it's nice that I can confirm what I hear by looking down. Just make sure that your phone/case is water tight. Rain on 100kmh will get in if it's just water resistant.
Hi. This sounds great
Thank you for watching 👍
Your doing great. There is nothing wrong with 125cc bikes, people have them with bigger bikes.
For my GPS I use an old phone and download google maps to use offline, works great and no cost, use any old phone holder.
Hi. Thanks for this 👍👍👍
Beeline Moto 2, twists on and off, doesn't spoil the look of the bike. Con: use Google maps which isn't as good as dedicated satnav. On my other bike I use Garmin zumo xt, but that's used for green lanes and the Tet UK.
Sounds good 👍
Little tip for getting into first gear, if you know you're going to stop, click down into 1st just before you stop, I don't know the mechanics of it but 125s go into 1st better when they're moving.
Either that or leave it in second and rev the bollocks off it to go.
Bigger bikes go into 1st a lot easier.
😂😂😂👍
Hey we all had to start somewhere. Back in the day, 1978, I passed my test on a 250. I know times have changed and the bike test is ALOT harder now. Doesn't matter what size bike you have, you are riding and that counts for me
Hi. Thanks for watching and this advice
If I need nav same as others google maps phone in pocket I not a fan of loads of screens n stuff. Glad your enjoying it Ride Safe 🫡🫡👍✊
Thanks for watching 👍
I use the beeline, got the first generation one and it's fantastic. You can plan a route on the app really easily or just stick a destination in and select "fun" and get a great route.
It's really non distracting because all you get is how far to the next turn and which way.
New version looks top busy and only has 9 hour battery life. I took mine to Wales last month and it lasted 4 long riding days on one charge.
Hi. This sounds good. Will take a look
Thank you 👍👍
Route card . Done the night before .
List the roads to turn onto , & just watch for them. Tape it to the tank or in a water proof display bag with clear cover .
Hi and thanks for this 👍👍
You’re doing brilliant. I’m 64 and been riding since I was 17. You are doing and thinking about all the right things. Claire is a great support to you which really helps. Tomtom Rider satnav is very good but not cheap. Love your vids, keep ‘em coming 😎
Hi. Thanks for watching and your comment 👍👍
You don’t need a poncho for the phone mate, most phones are waterproof nowdays, I’ve had my iPhone on a quad lock, on my 125 and now on my 650, through all types of weather and it’s still working absolutely fine 👍
Hi. Thanks for watching and this advice
I’ve been riding for 50 years and don’t have any inclination to go to a biker cafe. Just get out into the wilderness and plan a route. Look at the MCN routes or buy a bikers guide to UK. Good luck!
Oh and I’m sure any reasonable person won’t bother about your bike. Mine are Morini Corsaro 1200 for road, Honda CRF 450L for off road and a Mobylette 50 for running round on. Size doesn’t matter (or maybe it does to Claire 😉😉). Just enjoy it!
Good selection of bikes! Thanks for watching
I have Beeline Moto 1. Its Ok but limited but the Moto11 looks a great improvement which I will buy at some time. The Beeline Moto satnav unit is detachable and waterproof and simple to use. I recommend it
Thanks 👍👍
Quadlock, great quality and allows you to see your phone easily and clearly. You can also see what corners are like when you're in an area you don't know. You took an interesting route to get to Revs (which is in Rotherham not Doncaster BTW), it's that close to where we live we often leave the bikes in the garage and walk for a breakfast. Always a warm welcome and food banter. If you'd gone the week before I have been in having breakfast around lunchtime. As far as bike cafes go it's very relaxed, at a couple in the area you feel like everyone is watching as you arrive and leave and even as an old biker it's not the nicest feeling.
Hi. Oh you can walk to it, that’s good 👍 our breakfast was lovely. Janet the lady serving made us howl with laughter
Have a great week
@bikerofatlantis Janet is always good fun, glad you enjoyed it we love the place
I have a genuine quadlock case but the Chinese knock off mount which was about 6 quid works perfectly.
😂😂👍
Quad locks are great but pricey
Temu/Ali/Wish "Quad" locks are good and cheap for a year before the cheap plastic snaps
The quad lock vibration dampener is very good at what it does however if you ever go into London be mindful, the vibrator is stuck on but can be aggressively ripped off with your phone.
Quad Lock have a few varieties for phone cases or lock adhesives which you stick on a clean flat back of the phone case which I'm currently using.
I love watching your videos my guy, it's transparent and enjoyable, i hope you continue to enjoy riding just as much as we all have
Hi. Thanks for warning and delighted you enjoy. Thanks for the advice here 👍
Tom tom rider 410 for me, connects to the Bluetooth in my helmet and chunners away while im riding and i can use it in the car when we are touring, easy to put on and remove and chuck in your pocket. I once went 300 miles for bread and milk 😂 the beauty of motorcycle freedom ❤
😂😂😂😂
I’m a similar age to you, and have also just started riding three weeks ago. I got the bike for commuting but have fallen head over heels in love with the sense of freedom and focus. My commute is quite long - 45 miles each way, including a fast dual carriageway section but I only have to do it three days a week. I was a bit worried because so many people warned me I’d hate it in the bad weather, and in the dark and slashing rain at 60mph trying to not make a nuisance of myself around cars moving much faster its nerve wracking, but honestly even that is weirdly brilliant. I have noticed I occasionally get funny looks from some passengers which I think might be being a woman, and an older one to boot, on a bike. Nothing has ever given me the same sense of being fully present in the moment as being on the bike. I plan to spend the next six months learning and developing riding skills then take the test for a full license. I’d like to tour around Europe but will definitely need something a bit bigger. “Just do it” is brilliant advice I whole heartedly agree with.
Hi. Keep safe on your journey
We want to tour around Europe too, let me know how you get on 👍👍👍 Thanks for watching
@@bikerofatlantis Will do! All the best with your continuing motorbike adventures, and thank you for your thoughtful inspiring videos!
Chinese bike, finding first gear sometimes difficult. Mines the same occasionally Lexmoto. Try doing a running list of roads, put in a waterproof clear pocket, strapped to your arm, saves spending hard earned cash.
Hi. Thanks for watching and this advice
You can ride at the speed limits in the wet on modern tyres. So if you're wearing waterproof gear you'll be happy.
👍👍
You're on your way! My take from this video, When you realized and spoke of the freedom (perfectly). The "freedom" is EXACTLY what you spoke of, Freedom from the phone, Freedom from the computer, Freedom from the office, Freedom from the intrusive every day thoughts of life. You then went on to say you have to concentrate on the riding...... THAT IS YOUR FREEDOM ! Claire mentioned " I love being a biker's wife" and to you I ask, Have you noticed a change in him after a ride? My wife can see when it's time to go ride, she will tell me to go ride because she knows the person I will be when I get home, the attitude I will have when I get home. She knows all my stress and worry is gone even if for a couple hours. She knows I'm truly at peace on that motorcycle. Your man is finding that peace with each mile/Km he rides.
A destination? A Nav Unit? Nope, Your destination is HOME SAFE, Your NAV unit is whatever route you take and as many miles as it takes to "clear your head" and GET HOME SAFE. (re read above if you're confused) Stay Safe, Stay Dry and Love Often You Two.
Hi. This is a fantastic message and I’ve enjoyed reading it.
Loving the freedom and headspace
Have a great weekend and thank you for watching 👍👍👍
My advice for folks wanting to start riding Motorbikes is just, get back on your Mountain Bike to see if you can still ride a bike, as well as looking at the condition of the road ahead you have to watch out for traffic.Go to a Dealership and just look at them, ask if you can sit on ones you might by. Talk to other Bikers ,maybe there's already one in your family, ask Andy here 👍
Watch loads of vids about 125 reviews, and lessons. I would buy a road worthy bike for about £800-£1500 and ride it everywhere.
Good advice 👍
I never used a SatNav when I was riding, just looked on-line for the roads I wanted to use, and used the road signs. Got lost all the time, didn't reach where I was going loads of times. Did it matter? Nope, still had a great ride 🤣 Not sure what I'd do these days. Probably the same. No destination in mind, just a direction to travel 🤣 I used the Sun and time of day to tell me when I was going N, S, E or W, and that was good enough 🤣
This is great, thanks for watching
I'm convinced that 99.99% of all cases of depression in this country would be cured if doctors prescribed one year of freedom on a motorcycle. Like you I take the long route home plenty of times to free my soul after a day in the office, but never so it in a car.
👍👍👍👍 I love it
I think your bike is the dogs b******s… that would be a keeper for me .. 125 xx is plenty for the uk roads these days … as for motorways .. I’d not bother .. I think the bike is a beauty… o had a Honda 100 in the 80s.. and 60 mph on that was plenty .. as an old Yorkshire guy , yer the roads up there are so bad compared to the rest of the uk in my mind .. why is that , am not sure .. drive safe .. and what business do you run !!!! .. I think you two are the best and most entertaining couple I watch … you bath make me smile 🎉xx
Good job mate. Looking forward to seeing you on a real motorbike.
Watch this space
When I first started riding I used to mark my route out in a road atlas and plan stop off points to get the map out and get my bearings!
I did a 6 hr ride on A roads to get from just outside of Liverpool to Bishop Auckland in the North East…I was a fantastic adventure
This sounds brilliant and the kind of adventure I would like to try 👍👍
I use good fitted AirPods with my phone in my pocket or backpack. Listening to directions, when you’re learning is way more useful & safer. Always look ahead & do your checks, not at a sat nav screen. Following instructions from AirPods (or an equivalent) will set you up for when you’re being instructed doing your DAS & mod 2 test.
Hi. Thanks for watching and this advice
Hello Andrew I'm back after all. Now you are settling into it and enjoying it you can see why bikers ride. It's the nearest you can get to flying without actually leaving the ground. Lots of camaraderie and you've experienced the joys of a biker cafe.
Love the latest vlog and I have a couple of comments. Sorting out gears is a common problem, it happens to all of us, having a gear indicator on a bike helps a lot but if you don't have one it's just a question of being patient and finding the gear you want, usually firstof course.
Loved the cafe
Have you thought about getting some dirt bike lessons. They’re brilliant for learning control in adverse conditions and building confidence plus it’s great fun on someone else’s bike. Claire could have a go too.
I’ll look into this 👍
SP connect do a motorcycle bundle you can customise. I got mine all black so doesn’t stand out like the blue tab on Quadlock if visibility when it’s parked is a concern. But the main thing is the customisable bundle to vary how much you are willing to spend. I went to London and was so glad to have visible navigation for lane changing etc round central London. I’m a late 30s guy just starting on a 125cc. I felt self conscious at first but the community is so open all welcoming in the UK. Don’t be shy, you be you. Love the videos, keep up the great work and ride safe 🙌🏽🙏🏽
Thanks for this
Great channel , love the & Motorhome travel blogs as well, keep it up , biking in the in the winter will bring it’s own challenges and be safe.
Thanks for watching 👍👍👍
Very nice progress. That 1st gear search on red light made me chuckle... Classic that!
For Sat-Nav - I don't think you get distracted, unless you suffer from in it a car - same thing. Personally, I got QuadLock - hard-wired to the bike, so wireless charge and damping on the go. And for the navigation itself, I bought lifetime licence from MyRouteApp ecosystem. So that includes web-based route planning tool, and a phone app "navigator" to guide me on previously planned trips. For simple A to B I switch back to google maps. Expensive? Yes, Worth it? Also yes. Plus you take this with you to the next bike, so in theory, buy once cry once.
The round Be-Moto satnav - I never owned it, so bear that in mind, however it still runs satnav on your phone, which over time can get battery depleted in your pocket. What you are buying is a funny little display to show you what the phone is doing. On top of that, it's just an arrow that helps you junction to junction, but I like to know more while riding, so I prefer full display with everything on it.
Hi. Thanks for watching 👍👍