Cycling North After Winter

[Bucketeer]

Waterproofment stuff.

 

Waterproof trousers and jacket in the bag in the pannier along with rubber gloves and brandy.

 

 

And for the feet I have some BFO wellies that I picked up in an Accrington charity shop the other day and also some Smurf hats/shoe covers for my trainers.

 

[chaseracer]

He's in Yorkshire, they're still 50 years away from the 70's.

 

I've been to Harrogate too.

[Six-cylinder]

On the other hand Mr 6 cyl gain a volvo estate on the fleet!

 

Mrs6C has a Volvo 740 GLE, currently stationary in Wales with suspected fuel pump failure.

[Guest Hooli]

The obvious* answer is to buy a spare as they appear to breakdown.

[Bucketeer]

Two sleeping bags.

 

 

Tubes and repair kits.

 

 

Assorted bike tools, water filterer, etc.

 

[Luxxo Waftybarger]

What are you riding? My old FZ was not the most comfortable thing to comute on in slower traffic, once moving at speed it was fine.

I'm no medic and just ride a bicycle but I got a pair of Chiba Bioxcel mitts because they claim to be designed to cure the Ulnar problem. There is probably something more motorbike specific out there. Main issue is the amount of weight on your hands, try a more upright position? Not sure if that's possible on a motorbike. Vibration doesn't help so try lower tyre pressure. Small changes make a big difference.

 

This looks like a good haul of stuff. If you need to replace a chainring they are very cheap on eBay just a few quid. A whole new crankset is less than £20 if it's old 7-8 speed.

[Stanky]

Jerome Russell hair bleach is the best bleach. will turn literally anything blonde. I used to use it to dye my mohawk back in the good old days when I still had hair. I Recommend it to anyone who'll listen.

[mat_the_cat]

I have the same water filter, and haven't died yet. Recommended.

 

Hope you have a great trip, and look forwards to reading all about it!

[RobT]

Is that all the brandy you're taking? Those spare inner tubes are crying out to be filled...

[Bucketeer]

I've heard they sell brandy abroad too Rob, so I think I'll be fine.

 

I've given up packing and sorting stuff for today. I'm close but it's a bit of a squeeze fitting everything in, and I was starting to get a bit stressed.

[Six-cylinder]

Best wishes for your travels from me and Mrs6C.

 

I guess it is going to go something like this..........

[Sheefag]

Just a thought, have you got an EHIC card?

 

https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/apply-for-a-free-ehic-european-health-insurance-card/

[catsinthewelder]

They come through really quickly if you apply online and are free.

[Cavcraft]

Good luck, Al. We’re all routing for you, M8. Have fun, stay safe and post some words and pictures of your adventures along the way.

[loserone]

free.

 

And if you pay £50 then start getting letters reminding you to renew, then sorry, but you've fallen for a legal con.

[Bucketeer]

Just a thought, have you got an EHIC card?

 

https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/apply-for-a-free-ehic-european-health-insurance-card/

I've got an out of date one, does that count?

[richardmorris]

I've got an out of date one, does that count?

 

no. renew online and It should be ok, even if you don't have the physical card.

[DVee8]

Good luck,enjoy the trip and send us a postcard.

[chodweaver]

More than a little jealous - nothing I like better than the prospect of a big journey, and this will be an adventure too! Plus, I believe that the smart money is staying in Europe...

 

Good luck, send pics.

[Bucketeer]

I finally managed to get everything packed. Just.

I've stuffed the tent, sleeping mat and Camelbak down my pants and now I think I'm good* to go.

 

 

Trailer is full.

 

 

The last bit of lucky tat has been affixed to the bicycle.

 

 

I took the bike (minus the trailer) for a quick run up and down the road and the middle chainring seems to be fixed now/for now.

 

 

There were a couple of things I couldn't fit in the trailer or on the bike.

 

 

I have managed to take every item I have been donated though.

Many, many thanks again everyone. Hopefully I can do you proud with loads of spots and words and all that shizzle.

 

My lift to the ferry is due within the hour, although due to the 02 network having a meltdown we are not currently able to contact each other, so hopefully they can use the force to find where I am.

 

Also, more good news is that the weather in Rotterdam for when I arrive is looking absolutely lovely.

 

[NorthernMonkey]

Just be safe, mate...we’ve lost enough from here this year and I need a pacesetter for next years racing

[wuvvum]

Safe travels chief.

[oldcars]

All the best with the travels, stay safe, and i look forward to reading the journey.

[castros_bro]

Turn right at Rotterjam the weather is better.

 

[binhoker668]

Bon Voyage Mon Ami!  Have a cracker trip - keep us updated....

[richardmorris]

Safe journey. Have fun.

[DeeJay]

Enjoy yourself and stay safe.

(Well jealous).

[Broadsword]

Good luck!!

[Bucketeer]

 

I guess it is going to go something like this..........

 

I've only just spotted all the detail in the picture. Utterly brilliant! You truly have got this Photoshop lark sorted.

 

[Bucketeer]

An hour or so away from Harwich. Just stopped for a quick summat to eat and a leak or three. I sat at a random table and look what was on the wall. Pure serendipitousness.