Suzuki V-Strom (VStrom) Owners Club DL250, DL650, DL1000 & DL1050
Other Stuff => The Blue Oyster bar => Topic started by: geoffbandit on September 27, 2023, 20:48:38
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Powder coated sump guard brackets quite pleased as this was first attempt went on to coat the panels of old generator
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Went to work, called up at Argos and M&S, came home, sandwich and a snooze, watched Pointless, took a shower, waiting for my pizza to cook through, opened a second Spitfire.
Living the dream, eh?
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Pushed out the shop 15 bikes
MoT'd 5 bikes
Fitted several pairs of tyres and tubes
Fitted a chain and sprocket kit
Fixed some leaking forks
One oil change
Fixed two punctures
One set of brake pads
Many phone calls
And just two cups of tea .. :groan:
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Got up, had a shit, then a shower & downstairs for breakfast, (porridge!! :icon_exclaim:) then off to the allotment for a bit of pre-winter digging.
Two hours of that & went to the daughters to take her dog for a walk & a shit.
Home for some food, Sweetcorn I'd picked at the allotment earlier, then back to the allotment for more digging.
Back home & booked the car in for 4 new tyres! (how much!! ###), a quick change then out to visit a couple of the grandkids for a few hours.
Retuning home sorted some tea, beans on toast, then caught up with some correspondence.
Just sat down for the first bottle of Proper Job.
I don't know where I found the time when I was working. :whistle:
And you think you're living the dream Rusty? :whistle:
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Yesterday was frantic, absolutely frantic.
Breakfast listening to The Archers, an hour and twenty minutes dog walk, wash dogs feet. Vacuum downstairs carpets, deep clean downstairs carpets, clean out carpet cleaner. Dinner consisting of treacle on toast, start "Annika" second series, another dog walk of thirty minutes, afternoon nap (approx one hour), cup of coffee whilst watching second episode of "Annika". Watch episode's three and four, tea time consisting of macaroni cheese followed by chocolate concrete with chocolate custard, watch episode five of "Annika", evening dog walk of forty five minutes, watch final episode of "Annika".
Shower.
Bed.
Like you Mick, I don't know how I ever found time to work with such a hectic schedule. :icon_no:
Edit I may have found time to read this thread https://www.v-strom.co.uk/smf/index.php?topic=28845.0;topicseen
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This is more like a proper bikers forum. Now, was it actually treacle, or the more common and slightly less interesting golden syrup?
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@TL
Though basically a factually correct itinerary you've posted not sure it portrays the true picture.
What about the tag, not being allowed more than a mile from home and having to check in with the probation service every two hours...
Just sayin :stirpot: lol
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At my age I have no idea what I did yesterday but if the police come round I'll deny everything.
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@Rusty, your pedantry does you credit. Yes, indeed it was Golden Syrup and today it was blackcurrant conserve (not mere jam).
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Today I was up & out the blocks nice & early and off to work. I got the email I was hoping for and one of our medium sized grid battery sites (49.9MW/99.8MWh) has finally sold ! That means a very pleasant £1,200,000.00 in the company bank account and a hefty 5 figure bonus for me - straight into the pension, zero tax. Happy. Off to Majorca for a weeks wine holiday on Sunday too - happy days :thumb:
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I spent most of today reading Mick's reply.
It was long wasn't it?
I don't know where he finds the time.
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Nice one, 2112. Enjoy Majawker.
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Covid-19 jab today followed by a 2 hours of standing traffic on the A12 North due to a busted HGV in lane 2 adjacent to the Witham on ramp. So that created a three lanes into one puzzle that was just too much for Essex drivers who have to bash into each other and bring everything to a halt. ###
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@Martin, notice the time it was posted! The first proper sit down of the day. :thumb:
Life's tough when you're retired! :stirpot: lol
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I went for a ride along a little of the Devon coast. What a great day and I'm going to ride all day tomorrow too. :thumb: :auto-dirtbike:
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Replaced the thin chipboard shelves in a shelving unit that is supposed to support 265kg per shelf, didn't take long for my 30kg engines to start bowing them so I bought an 8x4 sheet of 19mm ply and made some new ones.
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Wow, that's an outstanding collection of Villiers singles you have there.
I've fully rebuilt a couple of MK10s over the past few years and I've got an old Barford in the garage awaiting some love, great fun to tinker on.
What's the big green one on the top shelf, that's not a MK40 is it?
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The big green one and the one to it's left are both Mk.20 'V' engines, during wartime production Villiers "de-branded" their engines and simply had "The V Engine" cast into the base. I had a Mk.40 for a couple of years then sold to someone for their autotruck restoration. Current count is about 15 Villiers engines of various types :)
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Here's the 2 I've actually finished, the green one is now back on it's Mayfield tractor. My Dad has a small collection of Landmasters and other garden machines, some even run :lala:
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Today I've packed my bags ready to head off to Majorca for a weeks wine holiday. Been on loads of these and they are good fun, not as much wine as you would think but quality over quantity. The weather looks great, so see you all in a week :thumb:
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Today has mostly consisted of a gym session, fixed a toilet, fixed some taps, repealed a bath and tiled a bathroom floor. Also called my normal tyre place and booked the strom in for some new tyres next week
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@Rixington43 I prefer restoring engines rather than showing them so they generally get to a show or two before I move them on.
My most recent was a 1944 Wolesley WD2, before and after pics.
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Can anyone help TLPower? He needs a new lawn mower engine. Again.
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Yesterday......I drove over to Newark to meet a few other
like minded people idiots to sit on the river bank from 10.00 'till 22.00 in the pouring rain.
We met at a cafe for breakfast where I made a school boy error & ordered a small one!! ### It was very nice though.
I did catch a few fish so a grand day out without the bike. :thumb:
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Grandkids rugby tournament in Paignton….👍
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Rixington43 and Robotstar5
If you are interested I have a Villers engine machine I found when I was cleaning out my dads shed (see pics ) it is a Tarpen Flex and if either of you would like it you can have it for free.
Collection from Chelmsford Essex.
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@Asmith61, thanks for the offer, but Essex is a bit far to travel for a small Villiers engine.
Tarpen were well known for small generators, the flex drive set-up is a bit rarer.
For info: your engine is one of the Villiers Lightweight range (512 or 515) I picked a bare engine up for a tenner a couple of years ago.
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Can anyone help TLPower? He needs a new lawn mower engine. Again.
Thank you Rusty, how kind.
A cautionary tale to all of you who have full size horse sculptures in your gardens. Do not ever cut the lawn too close to the structures that secure said horses to the ground. If you are unlucky enough to hit one with a Mountfield petrol mower it will stop the engine very suddenly with sufficient force to bend the crankshaft.
The sensible ones amongst us would take this as some kind of salutary lesson and avoid the four legged bastards at all costs when cutting the lawn with your new mower.
Last Friday afternoon with the sun beaming, the birds singing and everything being well with the world I decided it was time for the weekly lawn mowing duties.
( I say lawn based on the fact that I put "stripes" in with a roller, mowing the lawn without stripes is merely cutting the grass. I digress.)
The front lawn (see above, stripes) was completed without incident, the rear lawn was started upon with me pushing the envelope of skill and sanity by cutting closer and closer to the equine twats.
The resulting collision stopped the engine dead (again), as an added bonus it deposited a significant amount of engine oil from it's bowels it an attempt to show me it was really hurt. Of course I decided to try and re-start the poor thing which to it's credit it did though now rather noisily and with a cloud of smoke a dreadnought would be proud of when "making smoke to escape".
Suspecting another bent crank I retreated to my lair, the Thunderbastard was replaced by the mortally wounded Briggs&Stratton lawnmower on the bike lift which now served as an operating table. Tipping the mower over and turning over the engine showed a blade giving an excellent impression of a long playing record that had spent too much time too close to a radiator. It also managed to pump the remainder of it's oily life blood out of it's various orifices.
Grim.
Undaunted I decided that it might just be wounded and not dead. I fashioned a dial gauge on the top of the crank and turned the engine, that appeared straight, the blade end definitely wasn't, but what if the aluminum blade mounting/rear drive boss was bent instead? All could be well?
I set to removing the boss https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/314028637129?hash=item491d90bbc9:g:-u4AAOSw first with a gentle tap, then heavier encouragement and finally my 4 pounder with chisel. The first few blows resulted in nothing more than a few bits of casting making their bids for freedom. Unperturbed I moved the chisel to a new spot and swung a hefty blow.
Unfortunately my aim was poor, instead of steel I hit the base of my thumb.
The pain was immediate and sufficient to pass straight to my bollocks and toes. My latex safety gloves provided a laughable amount of protection. I tentatively removed the glove to be greeted with a tennis ball sized swelling, fearing the worst I sent a pictorial message to Mrs Power who was out delivering grandson number one back to his parents. I mentioned I may need to visit A&E.
As the minutes passed I reasoned that the thumb still moved as did the rest of the digits. Other than the pulsating agony I decided that I could forego a visit. By the time Mrs Power arrived home the swelling had begun to subside with the aid of a cold compress.
Back to the mower.
A quick search on FB marketplace for a replacement engine threw up a likely candidate 45 minutes away. It had been for sale for 20 weeks, I feared the worst but messaged the seller, he replied immediately and a deal was struck for me to collect on Saturday morning. I gave him £10.00 and I was the proud owner of another B&S 450.
It was in a oil tight condition, he assured me it was a runner when he removed it...
I removed the dead engine, I attempted turn the new engine over on the bench to be greeted with it being a little tight. I removed the spark, plug and a large amount of oil spewed out, this did allow the engine to turn over freely. In an effort to clear the rest of the oil out I left it with the engine draining out of the spark plug hole.
I nonchalantly began fitting it into the mower, I even put some music on I was so confident all would be well.
I was wrong.
With everything refitted I attempted a start, this resulted in the pull cord being snatched out of my hand and the engine failing to turn a full revolution, I took the plug out again and it was covered in oil, it would spin over perfectly with the plug out suggesting the presence of oil still in the cylinder.
I removed the head and was treated to a dollop of oil stuck in the combustion chamber. It was teatime so in I went.
Today at just after eleven I started the de-coking process and general fettling, the older engine had a better looking plug cap so I swapped over the magneto, I drained the remaining oil and filled with new. Primed the carb and it started first pull with plenty of smoke which cleared eventually. I finished the remainder of the lawn from last Friday but kept away from the horses. And the bruising is slowly subsiding thank you for asking.
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I've made a point of avoiding anything equine ( except meat ) since 1981 when my then girlfriend made me sit on the horse she owned. Too far off the ground, no proper acceleration device, same with brakes and steering, worst of all a large brain. The brute knew who was boss immediately. It wasn't me.
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Robotstar5 thank you for the info on my engine.
And I quite agree about the distance to travel🤣
I used to have a Wolesley WD2 some 30 years ago I used to show it along with a lister water pump at the local village shows, the last stationary engine I had was a Petter M
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What an excellent read Mr Power.
I was entertained.
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I was just going to say, I have a spare B&S engine just sat here, then noticed you'd got a replacement.
I believe the Briggs and Stratton engines, at least, need the blade to be on when starting, mine ripped the starter out of my hand when I tried to test start it sans blade.
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Thank you TL Power.
Excellent read, I felt your pain but I still laughed.
Loudly.
You should have known better, horses are only good for eating.
Now put that mower away until Spring.
Upt.
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Visited West Bay and Bill.👍
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Tuesday - I went fishing and caught five bream and four carp
Friday I went fishing again and caught nine carp and tench
Today I got on the Stone and went to Great Yarmouth for a coffee at the American Diner
Tomorrow I am going fishing again.
When I have time to attend to the garden I don't.
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Got back from a weeks wine tasting in Majorca, all bottles brought back are intact. Happy, 28c every day and some cracking winery visits. If you are ever thinking about visiting a vineyard while in Majorca check out Mortix up in the Traumantana's, spectacular views and stunning wines at surprisingly sensible prices. I'm like a bronzed god, sadly it's Buddah...
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I like to say that my body used to be temple.
Now it's a carpet warehouse.
In other news instead of riding, I stayed at home and cut the laurel hedge AGAIN. I cut this years growth at the beginning of September and usually that does it for the year, the warm spell apparently told the laurel it was OK to start growing again.
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Nice job :thumb:
I've got a Castlewellian Gold hedge to tackle if we get some decent weather. If not it can wait until next year...
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Possibly the last bit of tent action of the year... though no actual sleeping in the tent.
I've had a Vango Spirit 200+ for 12 years and earlier this year I set it up to check over and loads of the seam tape was pealing off so I bought some seam sealer but the weather has either been too hot or too wet when I've had opportunity to do it.
I was a little unsure about how well it would seal around the half secured tape so I did the outside stiching too.
Now just have to wait for it to dry.
Pitty it's work in the morning or else I'd be in it given the weather.
All ready for next year's bike camping.
This tent has a decent little porch so good if the wether is less than ideal, but still a very small pack size.
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Talking about tents, has anyone tried treating the Oxford Aquatex covers with tent spray? (The stuff that's meant to condition / waterproof / UV protect tents)
I'm going to be on my 3rd cover in 3 and a bit years, they just seem to go really thin, lose the shine, and start tearing, especially on parts that are really exposed to the sun / kept taut. For instance the material round the elastic on the wheels is really strong still, but the section above the seat is dry, crinkly and will tear if you look at it wrong.
Once I bite the bullet (the covers appear to have gone up in price...) I will treat the new one with the spray every so often and see if it lasts longer!
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Tested positive for Covid!! ###
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Oh no Mick there is a lot of it about again, has deb tested positive too ?
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Bugger, get well soon Mick.
On the other hand I've had some great news today, my recent ECG has shown normal heart function, no sign of any damaged tissue and a volumetric flow efficiency of 65% (normal is about 55%) so better than new! Very happy & relieved in equal measures.
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Covid cases are on the up, make sure you're up to date with jabs if you're eligible!
Coming back from a camping weekend (see my earlier post today in 'camping'), putting away the gear, I did the 600 arse-sitting hours service on the foldaway camping chairs. A few washers for screws starting to pull through the fabric, some gluing down of frayed bits and tears, lube on pivot points and silicone spray on sliding bits and a nice sit down after. Not to be attempted by anyone with OCD tendencies... (Don't forget to make a note in the service history). lol
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I had a 4th or 5th covid jab on Saturday along with a flue and phumonia vaccine, I didn't know there was a phumonia vaccine. I never had covid until after my first vaccine and then I didn't know I had it until I did a routine test, as we did back then. It's all very strange, I blame it on the Russians :roll:
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Oh no Mick there is a lot of it about again, has deb tested positive too ?
Yes, she tested positive Thursday.....it was only a matter of time! :GRR:
Thanks 2112. Great news for you that!!
We're due our boosters but can't get an appointment to get them! :angry-banghead:
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Great news 2112,
Really crappy news Mick. I suggest some back copies of Bike magazine and a bottle of Jura Rye Cask.
Upt.
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Great news 2112 👍
And Mick ain’t that about right :icon_batterup:
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I tested positive last wednesday. One of the blokes in the office who like a pint in a few of the ruff pubs in swansea brought it in to share.
Most of the office have either been off or working from home after testing positive.
Hope you get through it without too much issue.
I was coughing all night Thursday and was in no fit state to work on friday.
A few scalding hot baths over the weekend seem to have put me right.
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Talking about tents, has anyone tried treating the Oxford Aquatex covers with tent spray? (The stuff that's meant to condition / waterproof / UV protect tents)
I'm going to be on my 3rd cover in 3 and a bit years, they just seem to go really thin, lose the shine, and start tearing, especially on parts that are really exposed to the sun / kept taut. For instance the material round the elastic on the wheels is really strong still, but the section above the seat is dry, crinkly and will tear if you look at it wrong.
Once I bite the bullet (the covers appear to have gone up in price...) I will treat the new one with the spray every so often and see if it lasts longer!
We use Fabsil waterproofer on all our boat canopies, works well for all year protection.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Grangers-Fabsil-Gold-1-lt/dp/B002UG8IQK/ref=asc_df_B002UG8IQK/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=218086732501&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2949937500614828117&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1006957&hvtargid=pla-421699537163&th=1
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Cheers Nathan. Yeah it's the coughing that's getting to me. Three days of it now. :angry-banghead:
Glad you're over the worst of it.
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Hope you and Debs feel better soon Mick.
I went to a meeting in Liverpool today only to be met by someone who'd travelled there who was full of cold/covid. No idea why they came as they said they felt awful and we were in a tiny room for 6hrs... Suppose you might as well spread it about these days :shrug:
Great news 2112 :happydance:
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Ref the waterproofing...
I've used Fabsil, it was nasty stuff and to be honest I was never impressed with the level of waterproofing.
I've used Nikiwax waterproofer for years, I stick my bike gear in on a cold wash, then put it through another rinse cycle and pour in 100ml of Nikiwax in the draw and wash it down with an extra litre of water.
Water/rain just beads up on the outside for quite a while after even when riding everyday.
That reminds me, it's bee a while since I washed and re-proofed my gear.
The problems with material degradation and being prone to tearing is due to UV damage... keep it out of the sun, but that's kind of dificult if the bike lives outside.
I had a cover over my bike when it was parked against the house on the south facing side... the side facing the wall was dark black, the side facing the sun was pale grey and crispy after about a year.
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Ref the waterproofing...
I've used Fabsil, it was nasty stuff and to be honest I was never impressed with the level of waterproofing.
I've used Nikiwax waterproofer for years, I stick my bike gear in on a cold wash, then put it through another rinse cycle and pour in 100ml of Nikiwax in the draw and wash it down with an extra litre of water.
Water/rain just beads up on the outside for quite a while after even when riding everyday.
That reminds me, it's bee a while since I washed and re-proofed my gear.
The problems with material degradation and being prone to tearing is due to UV damage... keep it out of the sun, but that's kind of dificult if the bike lives outside.
I had a cover over my bike when it was parked against the house on the south facing side... the side facing the wall was dark black, the side facing the sun was pale grey and crispy after about a year.
No I wouldn't use Fabsil on clothing either,but sprayed onto a clean,dry cover and allowed to dry works well.
We often have new boats (ours and other builders)moored together outside all year,and the Fabsil treated canopies last longer.
Use an old spray bottle of kitchen/bathroom cleaner........free bottle.
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Thanks for the waterproofing suggestions, I'll have a gander and see what I can sort for the new cover!
Also Mick, get well soon. I had it two weeks ago, started as a mild cold and then day 4 onwards I was almost confined to the bathroom as it must have decided to take residence in my bowels. I felt fine except for the obvious inconvenience...
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@Barbel Mick
Sorry to hear you've both been got again.
Had it again myself just a few weeks ago
Just as it cleared up got a text to book a flu and Covid booster lol
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Thanks gents, a lot better today. Just hope I'll be negative for Friday so I can go to the pub with the lads. :obscene-drinkingchug: :)
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I went fishing at "the secret lake". Unfortunately I am not allowed to say more.
Maybe it was the last, sunny, warm, dry day of the year.
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No government restrictions saying you can't go to the pub Friday Mick, positive or not! :grin: Up to your own morals now!
I was going to book my flu/covid jab (at increased risk supposedly...), I might just have the flu one since I've had the real thing again! My one and only time of having real flu I was bedbound for over a week, never again.
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Yes, I am aware that there are no government restrictions if you have, or believe you may have, Covid. However, I wouldn't want to pass this onto anyone if I can avoid it. Being retired (did I ever mention I'm retired) l don't really need to go out (to a public place) for 6/7 days so can see no point in doing so.
I do also have a very good reason for not visiting the pub with my mates if I think I'm still contagious & that is because one of them has been on Chemotherapy treatment for his cancer for a while now & his immune system isn't great.
He might have less time to enjoy a pint in the future than me so happy to give him the opportunity. :thumb:
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I'm glad you seem to have more morals than some in the community Mick! Order some beers in and enjoy them at home 👍
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My emergency supply arrived today. :thumb:
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Order more - quickly!
BBC News - Climate change could make beer taste worse
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-67078674
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I'm on it!! lol
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Today we had a 4 1/2 hour power cut and then I took the Tigger (once I could get the garage door open) for it's first ever MOT, which it passed with flying colours.
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Power cut? The man who makes electricity and keeps it behind his house?
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I know, I know, we didn't bother with the Tesla Gateway (the Gateway allows you to run in 'island' mode and power the house from the batteries when an LOM (loss of mains) event occurs) as it means allocating a percentage of the battery which can never be used, except in LOM events. This means, say 20%, of the battery is always held back 'just in case' and I really need to use all of the energy stored. If I had power cuts more often I probably would have gone with this feature, but I'm fairly close to the Primary Substation (Bedlington Reservoir 66/20kV) so it's pretty reliable. Apart from yesterday when a tree decided to fall onto the OHL and bring down one of the conductors. Inconsiderate wooden twat...
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2112, your insights into the world of solar and battery are very interesting. For anyone considering going for a solar setup, impartial advice and information - such as your g98 /g99 are a mine of information. By and large, most of us consumers only get to hear what the sales team want us to hear. The systems are so new to us we just don't know enough about them, or where to look, to make an informed decision. I've no doubt there are more than a few companies hawking unsuitable/ inferior systems at over inflated prices. Same with the heat pump bandwagon.
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:text-goodpost:
Sadly, you are spot on. There are a LOT of companies out there who sell people an incorrect or not fully suitable product just because it's what they're used to or what they stock. It's a big investment, so it has to be right. I've met a (now) customer of ours who was badly mis-sold a heat pump of the wrong size. It basically ran flat out 24/7 just to make the house luke warm... The electricity bills were horrendous too because the poor little heat pump (nothing wrong with the heat pump, if it had been a 1 bedroom flat it was trying to heat and not a 3 bed semi...) was working at it's maximum output constatntly. We managed to force the company to come back and fit the correct size heat pump at no cost to the customer under threat of legal action/loss of contract with Daikin.
It's a minefield out there and a lot of companies just want to make a sale. Solar Thermal (where the hot water is pre-heated to save energy) is another frequently badly specified type of system. We've seen them way too small, so a negligible decrease in energy useage, to oversized where you can get dangerously high tempretuures in the system. Almost always because people can't use a calculator or can't be bothered to...
If anyone is considering a renewable energy sytem (PV, solar thermal, battery, heat pump etc) please feel free to get in touch with me to review any proposition you may have or just to give some impatial information :thumb:
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New brake pads, new fork stanchions and fork oil replaced. Thanks kwackboy :)
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Washed the V-Strom and the kids' bikes. Then spent some time tidying the garage as its too cluttered. Used to be quite spacious until various push bikes and kids' go-karts invaded, now I'm forever dodging stuff. May need to invest in a bigger garage :shy:
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A couple of months ago I purchased a petrol hedge trimmer/grass strimmer. It was a cheap one from Screwfix (Titan). I didn't want to pay a lot for one as I haven't got much use for it. :)
Got it home & put some E5 petrol (two stroke mix) into it. Tickled it, pulled the cord & it fired up first pull. A few weeks later I went round to my mums & cut her hedge with it, it worked fine for 3/4 hours. Filled the tank at least 4/5 times with the same petrol.
A few weeks later I took the grass strimmer part to the allotment to strim the paths, it worked OK for about 30 minutes then it started to cut out on full revs, I had to release the trigger until the revs steadied then start again for a couple of minutes, this kept happening.
A couple of days later I wanted to use it again, it refused to start, nothing!
I took it back to Screwfix who exchanged it for me, same make, different model.
For a number of reasons I didn't try the new one until yesterday. Put the petrol in it (from the same can I had used before), tickled it & pulled the cord & kept pulling the cord, nothing, not a sign of life.
Of course, I thought what am I doing wrong, surely two units, both new, can't have the same fault. I checked for a spark & that the cut off switch was operating correctly. The plug was sparking & it was wet so was getting fuel into the cylinder.
Today I went to the petrol station & got some fresh fuel, mixed a container of two stroke, emptied the old fuel out as best as I could. Filled the tank with the new stuff, tickled it, pulled the cord & it fired up first time!! :icon_exclaim:
Does anyone want half a gallon of suspect petrol? :)
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I've had the axact same issue with a Tutan multi-tool at the missus' place.
Each time I use it, I have to remove the mixture screw and degunk the recess before re-fitting and then resetting the mixture.
It's so annoying that I bought some beefy electric trimmers instead and she promptly borrowed them and cut through the cord :)
Normally I object to replacing petrol with electric but I'm *just* young enough that I bloody hate 2 stroke (sound, smell and histrionics).
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Bloody hedge trimmer, the trimmer itself is about 20 years old and it's had just as many cords and repairs because almost every time it gets used the cord gets cut through.
He rides a bike too...
Plan for today is to fit the old man's new chain and sprockets, and then my bike will get XCPd since I didn't have chance before today, and it's a bit warmer!
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I'll keep an eye on that Rixington, thanks.
But that doesn't explain why the brand new one wouldn't start on the 'old' petrol but fired up straight away on the 'new' stuff. :shrug:
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I know they're bloody expensive........but, Honda make great petrol garden tools.
On the advice of a mate we bought a Honda powered mower and Honda Strimmer/Brush Cutter/Hedge trimmer about 10 years ago when the new larger plot became a part of my life. They just work, changed the plugs once and oil changed every Autumn.
Money well spent in the end.
The mate said if we bought owt else we'd regret it.
They are always run with Super Unleaded and Honda Pro Fuel Stabiliser. They're very economical too.
Upt.
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I too have a Titan brush cutter. I left it over last winter with an E10 2stroke mix in the tank and in the carb. I came to use it this year and guess what?
It started first pull and continued to go even with yonks old E10 that had also seen use as paintbrush cleaner. I did wind out the screw as it used to bog at high revs. This year I've winterised it by emptying the tank and running it until the carb was empty. I also treated it and the lawnmower to E5.
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Were you lucky or was I unlucky? :GRR:
I might use mine a few more times before it gets put away for winter but I think I'll drain it before I do.
Upt North, if I was going to use it on a more regular basis I'd be happy to spend my hard earned on something better. :thumb:
When this one is running it does work well though.
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I've had issues with my ancient Lawnflyte (Kawasaki heavy industries) 2 stroke stimmer for quite a while.
Well it was about 30 years old so bought one of the Titan multi tools. 35cc compared to 25cc on the old one.
Ran great with some old E5 petrol I had premixed ages ago... when I refilled with E10 premix the thing was a bugger to start, took ages to warm up and bogged down all the time unless there was a bit of choke on, which was awkward seeing at it has an auto disengage on the choke.
Did a bit of research and it's a common issue... turns out when the jets get a little film of oil and old petrol on them they close up the openeing and you need to back out the main mixture screw.
E10 being the bastard that it is make the situation worse as it has a lower volatility and is harder to ignite than E5.
I found it still bogged going from idle so I backed out the idle screw and it runs perfectly again.
If you ring their customer services, jump through the hoops they will send you the mixture screw tool FOC... but I just used a recent little needle nose pliers :fix:
Also it says in the manual, not that any of us read it that you should not store it with fuel in it for any length of time... I use it maybe once a month in summer... so I let it co-ol down and drain the tank back into the premix bottle.
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Thanks for that Nathan, something to keep in mind.
I think I'll drain mine & as TLP does, run it until the carb' is dry. :thumb:
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You might also consider running some carb cleaner through it and maybe putting petrol preserver in the tank that you empty the machine into to save it from going stale in storage.
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It's E5 Brocket so should be OK??? :shrug: but for a few £'s I suppose it covers my Donkey! lol I knew it was going to change the word but it does add humour to an otherwise boring post. :)
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lol
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Today, I signed up for the next level of my Cardiac Rehabilitation in the form of a 6 month intensive gym training regime. Doing nothing is not an option, and I have enjoyed the relatively gentle sessions so far. This is a step up but needs must and doing very little got me to where I was... Wish me luck!
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Good luck, if you're enjoying it then that's the big battle won already.
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Enjoying and gym don't belong in the same sentence.
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Keep going Mr12. A lot of the satisfaction of activity you get afterwards, thinking "I did it". And the benefits last far longer. :thumb:
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I Went into :shock:
My bike needs an annual service :fix:
I don't want to ride it in foul weather so how much to have it picked and delivered?
£99
And while I'm thinking about that he says "each way".
:icon_exclaim: ### ### ### ### ###
"Don't bother I'll ride it in."
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Cleaned a bit of shite out of the garage, loaded it into the car & took it to the tip.
The tip just happens to be opposite Powerslide Motorcycles (Derby) and I'd heard they had the 800RE in store so nipped across the road to have a look.
We had a bit of a look around but couldn't see it, then a chap came along & asked if we needed help. When we said we were looking for the new 800RE he said, "You've just walked past it!"
He lead us back outside & stopped at a large cardboard box. When he removed the cardboard this was inside. It will be assembled this afternoon & ready in the showroom tomorrow. It will be the demonstrator.
We'll go & sit on it next week just to check the height & riding position etc. but we've decided not to test ride it just yet until we can see it & ride it fitted with luggage so we know how comfortable it is. We sat on the 1050 last year, complete with Suzuki metal panniers & there was less room than on our 650, I'm not expecting anything different with this model!
3rd photo is just for fat rat. :whistle:
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It'll need a new front wheel though before you can sit on it :shock:
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It looks green in the pictures. The BMW1300GS cost's extra in green, maybe green in the new hip colour for motorbikes, unless the Suzuki is just a trick of the light? :thumb:
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It is green. :thumb:
Metallic Matt Steel Green. Didn't like it.
They also do a blue & black in this model.
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Mick, thanks for piccies, nice beak.
It's difficult ain't it? Trying one with luggage etc. I spent what seemed like months last winter agonising over panniers that would hold at least a bacon sandwich and allow Er'Indoors to still sit on it.
Shad 35's were the answer. But until they're on it's a guessing game.
Upt.
The colour, meh.
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I pulled the bikes out of the garage, picked up the movable junk and ran the vacuum cleaner over the carpet. I moved the bike lift to the middle and put the XJ600 on it ready for a winter fettle. I put the Moto Guzzis on each side and then decided to take three bags of garage rubbish to the dump. Oh! Oooooh! no... Can't do that nowadays as we have to book an appointment a 'fifteen minute slot'.And get a bookig number. On arrival at the dump you have to prove who you are by producing a named addressed document ( not easy when you go paperless) and then produce the booking number. Such a faff. I suppose that's why the headgerows and lanes are getting full of rubbish and litter. Never mind it fulfills the councils target of reducing waste going for landfill.
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Plus the " we don't take this, that, those any more" signs when you do get there. Where exactly do councils think stuff will end up if we can't take it to the tip? Saying that we know a chap who disposed of an entire Reliant Robin bit by bit in his wheelie bin. Before the Bin Polizei with their VERBOTEN stickers were quite so keen.
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My step father was a dustman for a long while ,pre wheelie bins,hard graft.
Back then they used to get xmas tips off of "customers" ,a tidy sum in the week leading up.
I have kept this up and catch the binmen and slip a tenner into the pot for a beer.
It paid off when we moved to wheelie bins.
I now have TWO black bins to fill with cut up fridges/tellies which get taken without question.
Good lads.
Ho Hum
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Up here in the far north east of Essex we have large plastic wheelie bins but everything has to be put in plastic bags in the wheelie bin so the refuse consultants or whatever they are called nowadays have a good idea if anything verboten :angry-tappingfoot: is being smuggled through on the fortnightly collections.
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Brockett ,
I guess you are using the wrong palm grease.
My lot ,as long as the lid is closed and nothing inside is moving........it's gone :thumb:
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Today, I took a picture of our Paperbark Maple which every year has a spectacular finale to the season with a dazzling display of colour. It's been a few years since it's been this vivid -
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After changing the ceiling down lights I am happy that our kitchen refurbishment is finished*. Pics below
* still needs the extractor fan motor replacing, it still works but it's noisy, it's taking forever to turn up...
And yes, that's the Simpsons on the TV and yes we have a rose gold bin - which is battery operated and flips up automatically when you wave your hand near it. Or your arse walking past...
5M x 5m (with a little bit 45 degree door in one corner) for scale/reference.
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I cleaned out some of the gutters at work in preparation for tomorrow's predicted deluge. I was struck by how green the lawn is looking after the first season of using robo mowers. The constant mulching of clippings has done a great job of keeping it fed..
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Wow 2112 that is a lovely kitchen 👍
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Thank you very much. It's been a bit of a slog with various trades people having 'calendar issues'... Utility room next & then the shower room and then the office. Ho hum, always something to do.
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I don’t know how you found time to work 5 days 🤣🤣
Good luck with the 3 planned jobs sounds like you are going to be very busy 👍
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Cheers, it will be a busy run in to Christmas, that's for sure.
Today, we're packing our bags and heading off to Malta for a week :sunny:
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Today, I've cut the grass for the last time this year. It was hard work as the ground is saturated, particularly the rear garden, but it's probably the last chance I'll get to do it before the weather gets too bad.
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Today I joined our local Remembrance day Parade.
"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them".
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Amen
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The generator "shed" roof at the stables was falling apart after 10 years so to reduce the earache from 'er indoors I made a new one.
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You really are a superstar, she must love you lots. I would have had her get out and do it herself. :icon_no: :grin:
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Went for a night cycle ride down a country lane to test out a Hope R4+ light I was given last year. It produces a measured 1500 lumen apparently. Was very bright compared to my previous 800 lumen light.
This was supposed to be used for some night trail riding at Sherwood Pines but have never got round to it yet...
Some of my friends have a set up of the R4 mounted to their helmets, and an R8 (3000 lumens) on their bikes :sunny: :shock:
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I have a cateye volt 1200 I use for cycling in the dark ( most times this time of year) and it was a revelation after years of non LED .I saw the light as it were.
Last time I used it not to go to work was down Weavers Way,a disused railway line at about 11 at night.Saw no one for an hour(middle of nowhere) then came across a lady pushing her dog in a pushchair!!! WTF
Ho Hum.
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Took the Moto Guzzi V7 Special ( actually it took me) to Colchester Kawasaki for it's Annual Service. As it has only covered 1000 miles since last service it just needed an oil and filter change and general inspection of specific parts. All the people there are very nice and the cafe upstairs is very good. I'll not tell you what it cost me in case some of you have a heart attack. Some few months ago I tried to "adjust" the footrest bracket so the gear lever could be repositioned to accommodate my boot - long story but suffice to say don't trust a pensioner with a grinder .... it's still perfectly safe and not even slightly unsightly but in case I sell the bike I feel it should be "as standard" condition. I ordered a replacement. £112 and I was expecting it to be a whole lot more. It was mostly dry roads for the journey home and I was so happy to be out on a bike again. Back in the garage now for the winter lay-up parked next to it's twin sister V7 Stone. The XJ600n is exited at being hoicked up the riding list although I sall not be telling it that it is now my winter rat bike. Shuuuuuush not a word eh!
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Today, I have just returned from a wine tasting weekend at Riverdale Hall Hotel, Bellingham (https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/). This is a cracking hotel with amazing quality food and super friendly & helpful staff. The wines we had were very diverse from a 2022 to Malvasia to a 49 year old châteauneuf du pap ! It was a cracking weekend and it's a great place to stay and explore Northumberland.
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Oh, how the other half live. :thumb:
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Today, I bought a Samsung 55" led TV for the back sitting room. The 50" plasma item that was there is starting to show it's age a bit so, out with the old, in with the new. More importantly, all our tV's will have the same style of remote control, so much easier to navigate.
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I do believe Samsung is the way to go for a television, my friend swears by them, we have a 50” LG but when that gives up our next one will be a Samsung
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Been using Samsung for many years, their picture quality and ease of use is, in my opinion, far better than most.
Our phones are also Samsung and even our washing machine... :grin:
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Apparently LG make most of the "screens" for many other TV manufacturers. But I, too, am a Samsung fan.
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A Samsung fan eh! no one needs a fan in the winter.
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Fan-tastic ..!!
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:GRR: :icon_batterup:
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lol
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We had a dentist appointment on the other side of town today then, on the way to order the meat for Christmas we called into Powerslide, Derby to have another look at the 800RE.
When we called there a few weeks ago it was still in the crate, today I could sit on it.
I gave her one job to do & she misses my head off. Deliberate? Probably!! :roll:
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Christmas meat is one thing ,but did you get the sprouts on. :whistle:
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Nigel, the sprouts are still growing down at the allotment, waiting for a bit of frost to sweeten them up. :icon_wink:
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Well now I am torn, do I wish for sweet sprouts or salt free roads?.......I'm going to have to bow to the inevitable I reckon and go for the sprouts.
Ho Hum
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4 hour return journey to Surrey and met a very nice Italian gentleman with a blue Vespa PX200.
(Well you did ask... :grin:)
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Went to MCL. Test rode an 800RE. Overall a nice bike, seemed a bit smaller than my 650 when sat on it (fuel tank is a slightly different design to the 650s), felt a bit more nimble. Seat height was an advantage too (apparently just due to the wheels on it, the DE is only higher seat height due to the different wheels). The dash was nice too, clear, colour coded, didn't play with any of the riding modes / abs / traction (although set the traction off once playing with the quick shifter - not to my taste, very harsh, apparently there is a learning curve!).
However, low down torque seems to be reduced compared to my trusty 650, and the engine / exhaust note was a bit disappointing... I'll stick with my trusty steed for the time being!
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BM, it appears the front looks low, like the clocks are where you'd expect them on a sportbike. The seat looks good, especially the pillion perch.
Them sprouts need to be on soon, they'll never be sulphurous and black unless you crack on with them.
PBU, interesting you prefer your 650, nice write up, especially the points on the engine.
Upt.
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Upt North, yes the display did appear to be a little lower than the 650 & there was a bigger space between the bars & the screen but didn't seem too bad. The bars are lower & narrower too. (I do have risers on the 650 though)
Regarding the seat, as we only sat on it today it's difficult to say but the first thing Deb noticed was that the pillion pegs seemed higher & her knees were more bent than on the 650. (knackered ligaments in her left knee can cause her problems after a few hours riding)
It is lower, by a fraction, than the 650, but I don't know where the rear pre-load was set, it could have been wound right off?
We're waiting for the luggage to arrive before having a road test, as we do ride a lot of miles with it fitted & we need to know how it sits on the bike. Although the rider can 'cope', the pillion has to be comfortable.
I'll be watching out for after market stuff to fit as well just in case it gives more room.
I reckon it'll be spring before we take it out now anyway so plenty of time to think about it. :thumb:
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This is a true story and only the language has been left out to protect delicate ears. The day started badly when I saw the lavatory seat cover was cracked. Better get that changed as Grandson is coming over for the weekend. Went to local DIY shop and bought a new soft closing seat. While fitting the seat I saw a drip from the base of the cistern. Oh! what... it's leaking. Apply WD 40 to stopcock and spend 30 minutes freeing it enough to shut off the water. Operate the flush and use a sponge to empty the cistern. Removed the top, and undo the bolts to remove the cistern. Nah! the cistern fixing bolts are rusty and swollen with crud. So they broke rather than undo. Use hacksaw and then use a number of drills increasing in size until the bolts are removed. Go 35 miles find a Wickes and buy a cistern fixing kit, a cistern to pan seal, a combined bottom feed inlet and level float and a flushing valve/ actuator. Go another 25 miles to collect grandson. and then drive 55 miles home via the evening nightmare also known as the A12 roadworks. Get home and put 2 pizzas in the oven. Help grandson to unpack. Eat pizzas. Settle grandson in the lounge to set up his playstation while I spend the next hour or so assembling the cistern and installing it with the kit I bought. Trial a number of flushes and check for leaks. All good so far.
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Phew,
You got a full quota of "movement" there. :thumb:
Ho Hum
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Today, we had the first 'proper' snow of winter with a pleasant 2" covering of the stuff. It motivated me to take a couple of pictures of the pristine snow -
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Dropped into Robinsons foundry Canterbury fir their 55yr Suzuki anniversary.
Found a 800RE outside as we went to leave. I can get on the RE and not the DE.
Bar position felt good, very similar to Tracer 9.
Felt similar in length to a Glee, a little lower and seemed easier to move about.
Shall have to test ride next year...I.e. when it's warmer...
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Following on from our very recent kitchen refurbishment it's the turn of the utility room (or plant room as it should be called due to the number of inverters etc). Tim the kitchen fitter is finished, so it's over to us for painting (featuring a LOT of masking off), the continuation of the kitchen floor to go down and a new back door to be fitted. Then it's new downlights and extractor fan as the mrs like to dry clothes in there on an 'old school' airer. No rest for the wicked and I even put the Christmas lights up today too -
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I managed to get a picture of the new front door that was fitted yesterday now it's stopped bucketing down. It's a bit wider than normal and centralised (we had two standard size doors previously, one opening, one fixed). It lets loads of extra light into the hallway. It's got a swanky high security lock fitted, after jumping through a vast number of security 'hoops' I managed to order another two keys at a rather hefty £23 each. They also turned up with a new back door too, but they measured it wrong and it was 10cm out. A rather expensive mistake for them oops...
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Dark Strom.
Either your 8' tall, or that 800 is tiny?
Upt.
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Booked bikers campsite for next August bank holiday... 23rd to 26th - Bank holiday on the Monday? :lala:
Hopefully I've booked a pod for 2 people for 3 nights... but with past experience of being called a buffoon I could very well have booked the whole site... it'll be a very quiet weekend then lol
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Blimey Diver, that's some impressive forward planning! Good work!
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Up north, the tank and front end are a good 200mm lower than on the 650 I would say.
If you look at MB's photo it's the same. :thumb:
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Put the optimate on until green - green, all good.
And took a picture.
Pffffffftttttt.
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That sky looks well moody Upt North great picture 👍
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Today was the weekly meet of The Friday Night Club (FNC), 8 lads who have known each other for the best part of 60 years!
Usually it's a few beers early doors, but today was the Christmas party, which involved pork pie, sausage rolls, pickled onions & a few extra beers ........ well, it is 'nearly' Christmas. :obscene-drinkingchug: :thumb:
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Time spent with friends is never wasted.
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A bit of a personal acheivement for myself & the Mrs today - we paid the mortgage off! It's been 25 years in the making but it's done & dusted. We took a massive gamble some 15 years ago and borrowed a chunk of money against the house to set up the wife's share in her Pharmacy business. She's now retired and we've chipped away at the extra burden until today. Mortage free feels great, it could only be better if it was my 58th birthday tomorrow - oh hang on, it is :happydance:
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Finished the first part of our decorating, next week it all starts again ready for new carpets .. :crazy:
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Today is my birthday, a 'young' 58. Pick of the presents is a copy of Geddy Lee's autobiography 'My effin' life' which I will be reading throughout the year (I'm not a fast or particular reader, I just pick up books up as & when I feel like it). Oh, and lots of wine...
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Many happy returns. :obscene-drinkingchug:
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:dl_angryfire: 2112
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Cheers folks, much appreciated. I've just got back from a couple of quiet drinks (followed by several rowdy ones..) with friends and a curry at the Manzil at Morpeth.
All in all, a top day :lala:
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Belated happy birthday 2112 👍
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Cheers mate :obscene-drinkingchug:
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Today I dragged the Mrs out for a rather bracing walk. We've done 3 miles and it's a bit blustery so we've got rosy red cheeks. Time for a well deserved cuppa & biscuit I think.
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Sat around for an hour or two this morning then cooked & ate the first breakfast of the year.
Fixed the waste bin in the kitchen. It's been faulty for months but you can't rush these things.....turned out to be a 5 minute job. :icon_wink:
Now sitting down again ready to watch Derby progress in their push for promotion! :thumb:
Photo to prove it did happen. :grin:
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First Rate! Where's the black puddin!
And as for you 2112, pull your trousers up whilst you're walkin.
Pffffffftttttt.
Upt.
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I bet it's under the eggs with a haggis slice?
I've just gone real hungry.
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Pigs in blankets bolognese for tea.......again.
Ho Hum.
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Upt North, a school boy error I'm afraid, none in the house, not even in the freezer!
I've let you down, I've let the forum down but most of all I've let myself down! :roll:
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Mick, just like my school report....."you must try harder".
:welcome2:
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Am not at all jealous Mick :icon_drool5:
I accidentally went for a 32 mile cycle ride which had 2,280 ft of elevation. Turns out the route I thought of doing whilst out was further than I thought. Maybe I need to play with the cycle computer's satnav/route planning features for the next one.
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2280 ft wow.
I live in Norfolk and am lucky to see 200 ft on Strava when cycling.
Ho Hum
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I can only dream of flat roads. I have a 200ft climb in the first two miles from my house - it's always a brutal start to any cycle ride.
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I could hardly sleep last night worrying about Upt North worrying about my lack of Black Pudding so I thought I'd better do something about it.
There was still none in the house, so if I had to go out to get some I thought I'd treat Deb, the daughter & grandson to a bite to eat. We went to a café not far up the road & I although I didn't want to, honestly :whistle:, I ended up ordering a breakfast ..... complete with Black Pudding. :thumb:
That's two in two days this year already!! Only 364 more to go! lol
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Blimey ... Good job you've got upgraded suspension on your vstrom .. :stirpot:
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That's more like it Mick'ster.
Even a biccie with your cuppa.
Although, and I know I'm being picky, there's a bit of a gap between that egg and hash brown that would have looked better with a wee haggis slice in it. Although, and in due recognition to your location in the south ( lol ) , you may be forgiven such an oversight. I'm looking forward to your diet advice later in the year.
Upt and much happierer.
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No problem, I'm always here to help.
Regarding the Haggis, we're off to Scotland later this year so I'm hoping to include a slice or two with my breakfasts when there. I do like a bit of Haggis, but 'while in England' & all that. :grin:
PS We're not in The South, Derby is The Midlands but your forgiveness is accepted. :thumb:
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Derby ! in the North ???? I'll have to check the guide.
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Thank you Brockett for that wonderful map. I identify as an old man sliding down a hill in a bathtub.
I actually carried out the act when I was 13 or 14, two chums and I liberated a galvanised tub from Whitley Hall Cricket Club and carried it a couple of miles to the top of Jawbone Hill (not made up, real name) on the outskirts of Grenoside. Using physics we decided that Richard Denton (tallest) should sit at the front, me next and Andrew Maurer at the rear. Using gravity and the friction reducing snow we set off, at first it was perhaps just above walking pace as the hill became steeper the pace became much faster. Luckily a gorse bush stopped us hitting the drystone wall at the side of the road that comes up from Foxhill.
Satisfied with our adventure we left the bath where it had come to rest and went home.
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Due to circumstances beyond my control, a planned wine week at Lake Garda has been moved to suit the hotel. This has buggered up my ferries (North Shields - Ijmuden & return), so after a lot of holding on the phone I finally managed to get the dates changed. However, the rooms I had booked have more than doubled, so I've downgraded to shitty little indoor cabins and have still had to pay an extra £105!!!!
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Well that don’t seem right mate ? Especially having to pay more money ?
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2112 did you book a flexi fare or not?
I've been in one of the little shitty outside cabins before. Blummin cramped for two with bike kit. We've got the bigguns booked for this Autumn's ride.
You may ( not wanting to judge ) have to go on a diet before the trip, just to be able to turn round in the bog, I think I had to walk in backards.
Upt.
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Sadly, no flexi fare and I do remeber being in the bowels of the ship on deck 2 once and I had to reverse in for a dump. Some piggin noisy Germans on that trip too, pissed up and singing & telling Stan Boardman jokes on their way to bed at 03:00. They were less keen on singing when I banged on their doors at 08:00 mind...
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On the bright side I've booked a night at this place, worth it for the novelty factor alone - https://hausfueck.de/
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Today I became a septuagenarian! So what better way to celebrate than with a full English! :)
Yesterday we had planned to go out on the bike but last night the gritter was out so today the bike remained in the garage & we went to a local cafe in the car. Only a regular breakfast today so there was a bit of room for some birthday cake. :grin:
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It puts my two bananas to shame, or the other way around possibly? Happy birthday and congratulations on reaching a significant milestone in life :thumb: May you have many happy
breakfasts birthdays to come
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I've just sat at my desk in work and now I'm looking for the number for the local cafe.
:dl_angryfire:
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Belated birthday greetings from me Mick. You are a inspiration to us all. :clap:
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Congratulations Mick.
Not much of a present but made your grass a bit greener
:)
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Hiccy burpy :text-bravo:
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I'm in Southern Spain at the moment and have just got back from a walk with the dog. I rushed to the yapping dog who was jumping and spinning with joy as he had found a new friend, it was a snake. It was about 18" long, slender and brown in colour. I think it was probably harmless but it was coiled ready to defend. I don't know how many times I have told the dog to keep away from anything that hisses'. A cat scratched his nose last week.
Anyway, that has been the most exiting thing to happen today. Happy day's. :thumb:
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Appy berfday Mick .. :text-bravo:
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Happy Belated birthday Mick 🍰🍻🎂
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:dl_angryfire: Mick. That was another tasty looking breakfast. You should treat yourself again tomorrow.
Doc, you definitely need to remind the dog that snakes are bad for him.
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Belated birthday wishes Mick.
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Submitted tax return. Not long left if you have to submit one too!
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:text-goodpost:
The Mrs got hers sent off today :thumb:
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I went to visit my mate in his workshop, he is rebuilding a damaged AC cobra (kit) that he has bought and making a lovely job of it I may add.
He is also working on a damaged Jaguar XK8 that he also bought.
I am having trouble posting pictures but I will try to post a few 🤞
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I don’t know what’s going on but it would not let me post the pictures.
But I managed to post them on GB bikers.
Help please Martin or Andy ?
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That'll be the 4 wheel filter kicking in, not allowing car pics on a bike site.
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lol lol
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As part of the recovery process from my heart attack last year, I signed up for the NHS sponsored Cardiac Rehabilitation sessions in the gym. I've completed the first stage and I'm now well into stage 2. However, I'm managing these rather well so (under guidance) I've been to the gym today for session number 3 this week. It was a bit of an effort to get myself going but once I got there I fully enjoyed it and I should reap the benfits at my next class on Tuesday. Doing nothing is not really an option any more, so needs must - but it's going well & I'm felling great.
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Today we left the bike in the garage (again) & loaded the car with camera, long lens, binoculars & some warm clothing.
We had heard that Waxwings were 'showing' on the Monsal Trail at Hassop Station, so, as we'd not seen one in our ten years experience of bird watching, off we went.
The Waxwing isn't a rare bird in this country by any means but they don't always show in great numbers around these parts. It seems that the berries are in short supply in Eastern Europe & they've come over in numbers this year.
We're not 'twitchers' & don't usually chase after a bird (the photo of the crowd show you why ..... we don't like people :grin:) but because these were fairly close, it was a nice day & there was nothing in the diary we thought we might as well.
After viewing the Waxwings (& the Redwings & Fieldfares) we departed the very busy Hassop Station car park (haven't these people got jobs to go to?) & made our way to The Yonderman for a bite to eat. I managed to avoid buying a breakfast, just, & satisfied my hunger with a pulled pork with barbecue sauce cob & a bowl of chips. :icon_drool5:
Just as a biking interest, there were two GS's at Hassop, the two bikes pictured at The Yonderman & we spotted three bikes parked up at Monyash as we drove passed on the way home.
A few photos .............
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Waxwings are on Look North now, Mick.
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Thanks for the heads up Mick :thumb:
Some particularly hard weather in Denmark and Sweden recently I believe.
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Fantastic pictures Mick thanks for sharing :text-goodpost:
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With my wife, went to a solicitor and spent time devising a will. That'll be a weight off her mind and some relief for my ears.
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A few years ago it was on local TV news that twitchers were watching Fieldfares somewhere in Devon. I went for a walk with the dog and passed a field full of them and not a twitcher in sight. I think watching the few they showed on telly was their mistake, not that I'm very interested in birds other than birds of prey. :thumb:
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I had a run into Newcastle today (£2 on the bus each way, bargain) and picked up a present for my mates birthday and dropped my watch off for a much needed service. It's not been holding it's power reserve very well and it is overdue by a few months.
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I've been having a good look around the house and garden today before todays storm hits. I've sorted one loose finishing plate on the roof edging and secured a few garden items. Time to batten down the hatches...
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Same here ..
Although we're pretty sheltered here some of our garden bits have ended up elsewhere in previous storms. :smirk:
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Yes same here..
We have also been battening down the hatches.
Although we have a few ridge tiles where the mortar has come loose that are due to be done soon, hopefully they will be OK 🤞
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Presently 70.1 mph from the SSW apparently.
I think I need another Scotch, it could be a long night above the 55th parallel.
Pffffffftttttt.
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Today I've had the ladder out to fix a bit of storm damage, luckily it's a bungalow so not a big deal. I've lost a few bits of roof trim (no idea what it's technical name is) but found the pieces in next doors garden. A bit of 'RAF' engineering (large screw & repair washer) and they are securely fastned back on the roof. A more visually attractive repair will be carried out in calmer weather...
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Those tile cappings are a PITA. Lots of roofers nail them on for quickness but they should be screwed on the top edge and then the next one locks in before being screwed again. I think you have to start from the bottom and work your way up to the top.
You're welcome.
Upt.
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Yes, sadly, there is a good days work (in better weather) to put them right permanently. Not a screw in sight either, only a few 2" nails...
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Ooo ventilated soffits....
Spent a pleasant (!) couple of days installing the circular vent jobbies, in an attempt to improve ventilation in the roof space.
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I suspected as much 2112. And those ventilated roof spaces are very noisy on a windy night. Ours is a similar construction and was also roofed by someone who couldn't give a monkeys.
As an aside I've just spent a very unpleasant morning removing last year's wasps nests from the loft.
I do hope they pick someone else's roof this year. Pffffffftttttt.
Upt.
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I have spent the past few weeks collecting those 'Dry Verge' end caps off my lawn and returning them to the surrounding properties who all have them installed, well temporarily anyway :)
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When we had a full new roof (#yorkshirebattlecry) we had dry verges fitted. The roofers said dry verge systems should only be used with new, longer, battens which protrude far enough to fix the plastics properly. As ours were. Maybe some of the quick fix replacement stuff isn't securely held. Ours haven't budged an inch. Our neighbour got a cheaper roofer, he comes back 2 or three times a year to fix it.
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My neighbour knocked on the door to say our shed roof is in his garden...
I need to go round tomorrow to get it back as didn't have time today before it went dark.
Oddly looks like it was only nailed on with four screws on each side so surprised it stayed on for the last decade but on the plus side, my refelting held so the roof came off in one go (shame I need to cut it in half to get it back)
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Unless the wind blew all the contents away too, you don't need a shed.
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lol
The shed contents are blocking the Strom in the garage so I have an incentive to sort the roof out. Good excuse to tidy the shed though as it's been needing doing for a while.
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" looks like it was only nailed on with four screws "
There's your problem.
Next time, screw it on with four nails. :smirk:
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Something's wrong here, you say it's stayed there for a decade but gives the impression of brand spanking new wood as if it was only put up at the weekend? Is it treated/protected? Are the walls bolted down with long enough nails?
I suspect the roof pitch was 9°. lol
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Retrieved the shed roof from the neighbour's garden. Ended up cutting through the roof felt at the ridge to separate it in two and pass it under the fence panels.
I'll be hammering the screws in with a saw on Saturday :grin: (or using longer nails and more of them to secure it down).
The walls seem fairly secure - as much as a shed can be*
It is treated and gets repainted every couple of years. You can see it needs repainting at the bottom so will be done this summer. Might change the colour this time as it's a bit orange (supposed to be Oak leaf or something like that).
Think the roof pitch is low, just like the garage one. I might tackle making the shed larger at some point by changing the sides so could make the roof better then.
*This reminds me of an article Road.cc had with a retired 'professional-bicycle-thief' he said he used to do handstands against sheds and push the roof off with his legs. Would steal the bikes and put the roof back on so owners wouldn't realise. ###
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A length of batten screwed to the underneath of the roof then to the shed walls will stop it moving in the future.
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The wind blew my wheelie bin over :shrug:
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Today, I have booked my 'retirement holiday' for January 2025; it's a a 30 day epic trip to New Zealand ! The holiday is broken up with a 2 night stay in Singapore on the way out and an additional 2 nights on the way back in Dubai. A link to it is below -
https://www.distantjourneys.co.uk/new-zealand-tours/very-best-new-zealand-tour/
Any tips or hints for those of you who have been to New Zealand are most welcome.
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Wow - insanely jealous! No need for me to "hope" that you enjoy -you will. :thumb:
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Cheers mate, it's a once in a lifetime trip so we intend to make the most of it. That said, the Mrs fancies a 44 day trip around Australia the year after...
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Such a shame to go and miss most of a British Winter....
Take a million pics!
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Wow 2112 that sounds an amazing 😀 something to really look look forward to. :text-goodpost:
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I'm giddy with excitement and it's still 11 1/2 months away ! I'm debating if I should get a better camera, but nothing too big ? We have a Panasonic Lumix which takes very good (but not spectacular) pictures, but it's over 10 years old. I certainly don't want the bulk of a DSLR or even a bridge camera, even through both will (should) give better results. Any photographers out there that could recommend a good quality compact camera ?
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All the camera you will probably ever need, the viewfinder is a game changer.
Upt.
https://www.sony.co.uk/electronics/cyber-shot-compact-cameras/dsc-hx90
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:text-goodpost:
That looks exactly what I'm looking for :thumb:
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I've got a similar but earlier model (HX80?) , I think it's a bit like saying it's a Honda (Sony) , they just work. Also a great size to keep with you on the bike.
Mine is probably around three years old now.
Upt.
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I've got an old Lumix TZ10, which while still takes good qualiy pictures, has a few issues. The main issue is when you zoom the lens you can't one-zoom/retract the lens unless you switch it off. I guess it must be at least 15 years old so I've had my use out of it!
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I also have an earlier HX60. Great little pocket camera, great features and good lens for a pocket camera.
At 20.4mp it will take a far better image than any of the 200pm phone cameras due to the lens.
It had an outing today for my 4yr old's birthday party.
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Finished putting the roof back on the shed. Did the majority yesterday but removed the original nails 'holding' it on at each corner and replaced them with 11 pan roofing screws all fastened to the frame front and back.
The roof re-felt is a temporary job using felt I had in the shed pending full replacement when the weather is better.
Also popped the Strom's battery on charge in readiness for an outing this week - it'll be the first one of 2024 :shock:
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So, I'm making a nice filter coffee and I look out of the window and see this foxy lady taking shelter under our hedge at the bottom of the garden. She's been in the garden before but seems very relaxed & at home. Sorry about the picture quality but it's through double glazing.
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I hope you are going to adopt the fox and feed her dog food and meat scraps. :thumb:
Unless you have a cat! ###
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She's been coming in to the garden for a few years now and seems happy here. Not keen on feeding as it attracts other 4 legged rodents...
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I have the odd fox that sun bathes and a badger or two, but the beasts that worry me are the deer. Its a very small garden and so walking out of the back door and finding a huge stag a little taller than me with a full set of ariels on top is not something I want to repeat. Hedgehogs shagging sound like grisley bears and even telling them to "shut it" doesn't always distract them. Not many song birds though too many magpies and sea gulls nicking the eggs and scoffing the chicks. Some years there are lots of slow worms and other years there are newts or toads but never in the same years and strangely there are no lakes or garden ponds in the area.
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Today I went to my mum's 100th birthday 'gathering'. I say gathering rather than party as mum, 'didn't want a fuss', so it was just a quiet get together with her five children, two nieces over from Ireland & then grandkids & great grandkids making short visits throughout the day.
:dl_angryfire: Mum. XXX
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:occasion-balloons:
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:clap: :clap:
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Congratulations to your Mum. She doesn't look 100 :thumb:
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:dl_angryfire: :occasion-balloons: :occasion-balloons: :occasion-balloons:
Happy birthday to your mum. Hope she had a fantastic day!
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That is some milestone, congratulations to Your mum :thumb:
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Today, our shower room refurbishment started in earnest. However, it didn't take long before some 'issues' raised their heads... Three rotten joists, rotten wall studs & flooring beyond use. A few plumbing issues were spotted too, such as an upwards sloping waste pipe and some poor pipe routing. It's a mess and it'll cost a bit to fix but, hay ho - it is what it is. It's even affected what is our home office which was to get a makeover later on this year. It looks like it will be quite a bit sooner now as the fitted wardrobe was dismantled by hammer. Pictures of the carnage below -
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Crikey! Good luck :dl_hyperhysteria:
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I blummin hate plumbin.
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Happy belated birthday micks mum wow 100 that is some milestone.
And 2112 we had very similar just before Christmas at a rental house we have.
Had to replace all the floor joists, bearers & flooring. Big job good luck 🤞
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Cheers, thankfully I'm not doing it
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I left my car for two and a half months and when I got home the fob wasn't recognised by the car and I was instructed to put the fob on top of the on off button then press start. That worked so I then drove to a moto factors and bought a new battery. It made no difference.
Today I visited the local (Exeter) Nissan dealer where I was told the car would need a diagnostic check £156. I had to agree so signed the form for them to proceed while I had a free coffee. ten minutes later the receptionist came and told me I had put the battery in upside down, she had fixed it and the car was now okay.
I felt stupid and embarrassed but saved £156. Wow! An honest garage, I have so much respect for the garage. :lala: :bow-blue:
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"free coffee" lol better than a £156 coffee. At least they were honest enough not to bullshit you and keep it.
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Doctor, did you use a quality new button cell? I bought 'em cheap off Ebay and the minute they drop to 2.99V it's game over. I change them in our Nissan Leaf fob it feels like several times a year! When the pack of a squillion is finally empty I'm going to not be so cheap from then on.
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Not Glyn Hopkins then??
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I agree with the batteries. I've put every other brand than the manufacturers dealers use in my key, and all of them go back to "Key 1 has a low battery" within a couple of months. The key works well past that though up to a year or more.
They must just be tuned to use one kind of battery and everything else won't do!
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I rather think that the batteries supplied with a vehicle are somewhat "special". Even when you buy what looks identicle it doesn't seem to last as long. The opposite of my experience with tyres - new bike tyres seem to fall off a cliff much quicker than an apparent replica replacement. The first Bridgestone front tyre on my Kawasaki 1000 SX was shot in 2700 miles and the replacement went to over 5000 :shrug:
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In answer to the question about which batteries I chose. My car is 2014 and I bought it one year old from Nissan, it was one of their staffs company car. I haven't had to change the batteries in the fob's since but I have changed the vehicle battery.
The replacement fob batteries I bought from a moto factors , two for £1:50, cheap. I will know what to do next time they expire and if it happens in less than a year then they will be replaced with Nissan batteries. I can't fault the Exeter Nissan dealer, they are superb and even wash my car for free every Saturday for as long as I own it. :bow-blue:
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Brockett “I rather think that the batteries supplied with a vehicle are somewhat "special".
On a slightly different slant about battery longevity,I have had my current car since 2012,and the key fob has never had a new battery,I have never tried the spare key so not sure if that would work,plus I replaced the original battery on my L2 bike before going on holiday 18 months ago,” just in case” when it was 10 plus years old.I checked the old battery that was still in the garage a few weeks ago and it still had 12.6 volts in it.So the original Japanese make batteries are really good bits of kit.
Note:before anyone asks I checked the date stamp on the original and it was made in 2011.
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@Brockett your comment regarding the lack of life from tyres fitted to new bikes rang a bell. :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tv97i_-V7hA
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I like his videos or is it blogs? Anyway, thank you for posting that one, it is particularly good and explains what I always thought but didn't quite know how to say it. :thumb: :text-goodpost:
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Another day in the garage working on the XJ600.
Seat off, tank off, airbox off. Throttle disconnected, battery positive disconnected. TPS disconnected and carbs removed to workbench. Floats removed and float level tabs adjusted so that all are the same as I can get them. Re-assemble and replace carbs and TPS and balance carbs 2 with 3 then 3 with 4 and ten 2 with 1. Refit everything else and fire up again. Yep that sounds much better. Remove sump plug drain and change engine oil. Only has 600 miles of use but I feel the need to check it for petrol contamination since I suspect the carbs were flooding into the bores. No sign of that but at least that little voice of doubt won't run around inside my helmet next time I go out. Filter was not changed. Centre stand removed for corrosion removal and repaint. Rear chain adjusted and tyres brought up to pressure. But then it was getting too late for test ride due to failing light. The job shown above was started at 1030 and finished at 1645. Everything is awkward to get at and even more difficult to put back in place. However, as I bought it to play with, it is serving me well. I gave both Moto Guzzis a wipe over and used a pastry brush dipped on AFC50 to dab as required, connected the optimates and then covered them up again. My sons now unloved Honda 125 Varadero sits a little falorrnly (and in the bloody way) since he passed his test and committed all his love to a 600 Fazer. So I may have to spent a few months making the little Honda looking presentable for someone to buy. ( Scabby water pump housings are not just a V-Strom thing)
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Today I've picked up a bug or virus which is making me very ill. I was throwing up earlier but it has now worked itself downwards. The phrase 'thinner than water' applies...
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Had to have a half day at work so I could go meet our granddaughter Rosie ... born today ... :lala:
.
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Congratulations :thumb:
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Kwackboy congratulations 👍
2112 hope you feel better soon.
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Congratulations to one and all kwackboy.
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2112 - Oooh! that's not good I do hope you feel better very soon
Kwackboy - Congratulations Grandchildren are great .... (and I thought I had a busy day)
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Congratulations Kwackboy :thumb:
I'm up for a liquified 'poo' every 20 mins at the moment, not nice.
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Took the V-stom for its MoT it sailed through without fault.
I'm sure that the engine is even better now, with 50'000 + miles on the clock than it was 20.000 miles ago!
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I've managed to eat something today (porridge, no milk or sugar, just water), my first meal since some ill-fated toast on Friday came through me like a train. Not sure what I've had but it's not been pleasant. I'm still not 100% but I'm able to move more than three steps away from the porcelain...
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.....and even that's too much detail! :shock:
Get well soon.
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FFS, 2112! Every time I click on this thread, I'm eating!! lol
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Hell, it sounds like you could hit the porcelain from three steps away. Get well soon, roast dinner by next Sunday :thumb:
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So, it turns out that my botty woes have been caused by a little bug called gastroenteritis, probably picked up in filthy Manchester if the timeline is to be believed ? Things are well on the mend now, but I'm still far from 100% fit. I've just jumped on the scales and I've lost 7kg since the last time I got weighed ! That's just over 15lb in pre-decimal money, no wonder I feel knackered...
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Regretably fewer people wash their hands after using a toilet these days. People seem to be forget how simple hygiene works. As the world population grows and the cost of travel falls more and more viruses will spread and of course the uncontrolled and often inadequte use of anti-biotics will be catastrophic for many communities. Most of us did not live in a time when a scratch from a rusty nail could be fatal. Our grandparents did, as will our grandchildren. COVID 19 was just a taster of what is to come.
P.S. sounds like you're on the mend 2112. Good show - I hope you are fully recovered very soon.
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Feeling for you 2112, I've had it and I don't want it again. Although I could do with losing some pre-decimal weight.
Brockett, I fear you are wise.
Upt.
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Brocket, you are right about people not washing their hands after using the toilet. I visit public loos a lot because I can't stop peeing. It shocks me that even after number two's some chaps don't wash. I hate touching the handle of the door when leaving. Dirty bas****s.
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Cheers chaps, appreciated. I'm nearly back on to solid food now too. Whoop.
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Foot operated shithouse door opener.
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he'll never reach that from his place
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I'd never reach it with my stumpy legs.
@2112, it's good to hear you on the mend. A 7kg loss, that's a decent amount. Where exactly in Manchester did you visit?
Asking for a friend obviously.
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TLPower, are your legs so short they don't even reach the floor?
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Not when he's sat on that monster he rides! :grin:
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Hope you're referring to his KTM ... :icon_wink: :stirpot:
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@2112, it's good to hear you on the mend. A 7kg loss, that's a decent amount. Where exactly in Manchester did you visit?
Stockport. I always struggle with germs when I visit the midlands...
When I used to work for Balfour Beattie I was based out of Bamber Bridge near Preston. I always got a good bite when I mentioned that I'd come down from the North to work in the midlands. Every time.
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As the board title says I dread to think what 2112's conclusive post will say....... let alone the emoji "This thread is worthless without pics". :shock:
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I think I'm pretty much back to my normal (note, not normal, but normal for me...) now and everything is working as it should do. Pleased to see the back of it to be honest and sick of having a ringpiece like a dragons nostril. On the bright side I've just dipped under 18 stone for the first time in several years. I'm off to Milton Keynes for two nights next week as I'm doing a lecture on Wednesday. What's the worst that could happen ?
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Glad you're feeling better. Fingers crossed you don't go through that again.
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It's an effective diet, but difficult to recommend...
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"dragon's nostril" lol lol lol
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Have ordered some new brake discs and pads for the Strom as the discs were measuring 4.53mm on one side. Still above spec, but only just.
Was going to order from Sportsbikeshop but Demon Tweaks were £100 cheaper (25% off the discs at the moment). SBS' website says they'll price match but only one of each item, so only one disc :shrug:
Hopefully these discs will last another 60,000 miles
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Today I've had to tackle my first bit of gardening this year. We have a few Potentilla (Fruticosa Bella Lindsey, in case you were wondering) bushes which need a good hard cut back every 3-4 years. This was one of those years. I'm probably only 2 to 3 weeks away from the first cut of the grass too. And so the annual battle to keep nature in some sort of control begins...
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I opoened the back door and looked at the garden which has not been touched for five years. I went back inside and closed the door. Mild winters don't knock back the weeds like they used to do.
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Agreed, too mild to knock anything back. Bring back the good old days of proper frosts, several feet of snow & the whole country grinding to a halt.
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Tonight I've moved the computer into the dining room and converted it to wireless with a USB adapter. It's running a bit slow, but acceptable. This allows me to crack on and rip what's left of the office/bedroom 5 out and get it ready for a major refurbishment. Never ending the amount of work going on here! I'm incentivised to get it done quickly as the better weather is on the horizon...
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I had a run into Newcastle today to pick up my watch from the jewlers. It's been back to Breitling for a major service, full refurbishment polish, replacement glass & two damaged links replaced in the bracelet. The watch looks & feels like new again, absolutely stunning! I cannot believe how well they've got the scratches out of the case & bracelet. Note to self, do not wear your watch while doing DIY, gardening or in the garage...
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Very nice, I don't usually like Breitling because they are often over cluttered but I do like that. I have a watch the same colour. :thumb:
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Cheers, like yourself I like a simple dial (as I often tease the wife...) and I can do without all the other distractions. It had some quite serious 'battle damage' and has come back like new, so pleased.
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Can I ask roughly what that cost you 2112 (watch service)? You can tell me where to go of course......
I have a Tissot and daren't wear it other than for weddings and funerals. :whistle:
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It went back to the mothership (Breitling UK) as it was badly scuffed and I knew it needed some link repairs and the glass replacing. All in with the major service (includes pressure test), polish & repairs it came to £670. Generally, you will be looking at around £120-£180 for a standard service (without pressure test for waterproofness) excluding any parts. The Mrs has a Hamilton which is well overdue a service and we have been quoted locally as £140.
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Wow! OK, the watch is worth it but not your bank account...... A once in a lifetime repair one would assume? :icon_wink:
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UK Vstrom (February 25th)to save money,order one disc and then after it arrives,order another,that way you will get your discount on both items.👍
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Took the bike out to see if my repair to the ABS power supply has worked,and it did ☺️ (The ABS light would not go off)
Thanks to the forum member that posted a couple of weeks ago that he had found a bad connection,sorry I can’t remember your name.There are two cables in parallel coming from the battery positive terminal,the heaviest cable goes to the starter solenoid and the other goes directly to the ABS 25A fuse,this cable has a push on connector in the middle of it,I released the securing plastic clip and inside was a verdigris mess,I cleaned it all off and tried the connector,there was virtually no friction between the two terminals,hence a very bad connection,gave the female connection a squeeze with a pair of pliers,smeared anti-corrosive terminal grease inside and reconnected.
Biggest job was getting both of the rear fairing pieces off and back on.The light goes off quicker now than it ever has done.Good result to a niggling and theoretically very expensive job.
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A once in a lifetime repair one would assume? :icon_wink:
I hope so, I'll be taking better care of it from now on...
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Good shout about ordering the parts a day apart Ian, but it seemed too much of a faff at the time.
I bet if I'd gone into the local SBS shop they'd have price matched the whole order (even if ordering them separately) but didn't have time to get there.
Good fix on the ABS light too. I've not had issues (yet) but will be remembering this post. (I do wonder if having a rear hugger has helped with this??)
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Today we've loaded the car up and are off to Harrogate for a mid-week break and some wine tasting. We have a visit at Dunesford Vinyard booked and then a tasting at a boutique wine shop in Harrogate. Happy days :obscene-drinkingchug:
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This morning I sanded down the majority of my forks with a view to respraying as they're a mess. I then utterly failed to remove the rear to bolts from the mudguard. The square washers are just spinning in their wells and I can't get them off. Currently considering just masking it all off and trying to spray the forks in situ. Bloody thread lock............
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I think you will find they are rusted in rather than threadlocked,don’t forget your bike is about 11years old this year.I had a few problems with my L2 when I stripped the forks out to fit fork gaiters,and ended up drilling the thread out of the square nuts,then soldering new nuts onto the square nuts and then you can get a spanner onto them next time they are removed.Plus I used a copperslip type anti-seize grease on them when re-assembling.
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I had a short ride out north of Newbury. I was given as a present maybe 15 years ago a ring-binder of “AA 1001 Country Walks” and it has sat on the shelf until last year when I thought I’d make a start. Now up to 117, so 884 to go, but if I do 100 a year I’ll finish in 2032???
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Just my luck, I picked up a 24 hr bug and have been on the pot passing fizzy gravy for most of yesterday! After a very hot/cold/hot night I seem to have sweated it out of my system. Not having much luck with these things at the moment...
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You could use a "ring binder" yourself, by the sound of it.
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Yesterday I bought a £1 scratch card. Today I saw that I have won! :lala: :sunny: £2. :roll:
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Finished a little project today, a coffee table, made out of old scaffold boards left over from another bigger decking project. I don't like waste ... :icon_wink:
Not quite finished yet , it needs a final sanding, white washing and varnishing.
.
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Looks good, nicely chamfered ahd sculpted near the joints. I assume it's glued too? :thumb:
Edit: I play with my router a lot for similar jobs. You have one or a bench set up?
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Cheers ...
I've got a couple of routers, I'm not skilled enough to do it any other way... :grin:
Yes , it's glued with wooded dowels, I've been learning joinery and quit like the idea of making items without the screws or nails.
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Nicely done Kwackboy,
Money to be made at that game,some of the stuff on ebay goes for silly money( some of our joiners make good on the side cash there :whistle:), if you decide to cut back on bike fixing :thumb:
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Today, I took my car for it's third annual service and it's first MOT. I am pleased to say it passed with no advisories (as it should do) and all is well. All for a very reasonable £130 and an extra years 'free' breakdown cover with the AA thrown in. Happy :)
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Deb & myself have been over on the East coast (Suffolk) for a few days & knowing one of our members lives not too far away, we arranged to meet for breakfast today.
Cracking little cafe & an equally cracking little breakfast. ☺️
Cheers Brocket, great to see you & your mates for a catch up.
Steve & Pep seem like old mates now. 🙂
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So very nice to see you both again.
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Easter holidays means a few days looking after the grandkids, or is it them looking after me? :whistle:
Yesterday, after Oxygen, a Trampoline & play centre, we made a visit to Great Northern Classics. https://www.greatnorthernclassics.co.uk/ A new venture just opened in Derby. I thought it was a museum but it's more of a workshop for classis vehicles. There were half a dozen or so cars & a few motorcycles on display though.
Today, after Ten Pin Bowling we made a visit to The Museum of Making in Derby. That was excellent & a couple more motorcycles spotted. We couldn't stay long enough to 'do' the whole thing as we had to have one of the kids home for Gymnastics.
A good couple of days, the grandkids enjoyed the trampolining & bowling & grandad enjoyed the motorcycles. :thumb:
The last three photos are from the Museum of Making. The exhibition is to do with the City of Derby.
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For some reason I was unable to download any photos on the original post, not even one. :shrug:
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This is odd?
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.
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.
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Got there with the photos in the end but I'm not sure what happened. The first 3 times trying it just kept saying failed. Tried reducing the photos & putting fewer in each post, still no good. Then when I do manage to get some up in separate posts, those that wouldn't show in the first post suddenly appear. :crazy:
Maybe it was me after two days with the grandkids!! lol
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I have had problems over the bank holiday too,using my usual file size ,and when they were accepted ,taking forever to up load.I opened the site in another window ,hit home to refresh ,and the photo post immediately uploaded on the first window ????
don't know?
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I've had a busy day around the house & garden today. Firstly I removed all the carpet tiles that were in my back passage (!) and took them to the tip. Some came up easily, others needed to be chiseled carefully from the floor. We have painters in for three/four days decorating starting on Monday and then the flooring people are in the following Monday and it's LVT throughout the front & rear passages. Then it was a burst of energy outside as I cut the grass for the first time this year. Knackered, so it's a well deserved glass of wine (or two) tonight.
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I was asked to do a Drone flight at Dover castle. early this morning before for it was open to the public as they have some major leaks in the roofs. The wind was really strong with gusts of 30 mph. I put the Drone up just to see if I could do this for them. But I had to abandon the flight as the wind was fighting the Drone to much and I was worried I was going to loose it.
I will be going back to do the flight when it’s less windy.
On the way back I noticed a sign for Samphire Hoe so turned off to take a look it turns out that Samphire Hoe was created from the Channel Tunnel spoils and has added 89 acres to this part of Kent.
You have to wait at a set of Traffic lights to access the site then go through a Tunnel. There are 2 car parks (50p for half an hour ) there seem to be nice walks including along the sea wall. There are toilets and a education centre we were only there for a short time and took a few pictures.
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A few more pictures
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Great pictures :thumb:
It looks an interesting spot & good use of what must have been thousands and thousands of tons of rock, rubble & sand.
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Pity the Government didn't arrange for the rock and sand to be dumped on the east coast where erosion is taking away land and people homes.
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Too far away from London for the politicians to care, sadly...
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Tyres checked and inflated, bike checked, bit of a run tomorrow. And just in time, I appear to have a cold coming on, fantastic timing!
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Might not be a cold,the pollen count is high now.Affects me a lot,with cold like symptoms,sniffing,tickly throat,it’s tree pollen.
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I never suffered with hay fever until I was 70 and then I was knocked flat for a while until I associated my symptoms with me pruning and hedging some Leylandii (Bloody things) The pollen from those is dreadful.
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You know what, you might be right. Sneezing has started now although it doesn't change for time of day. Hopefully it is just a bad year of hayfever for me.
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Back in 2018 I went to the GP due my eyes becoming very light sensitive. Any sunlight was blinding and painful and my eyes were streaming. I was referred to hospital specialist and because I could not see I had to take a cab each way. Three appointments later I was told there was no reason for the symptoms. I had to stay home all day and only go out when it was overcast. I could not drive at night being unable to see when headlights approached. In mid August out for a brief ride on a cloudy day, a friend said his eyes were stinging because he had not taken his hay fever medication. CLANG yes a loud bell rang. Next day I went to Morrisons and bought a packet of one a day allergy remedy.
After three days my eyesight was back to normal for the first time in five months. I told the GP but as expected I was not believed. Every year since then I have to stock up with a few boxes of meds and over the years I need to take them less and less.
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Results are in, it wasn't hayfever, bloody man flu. First time I've been outside in a few days yesterday!
I had some weird and wacky dreams... including multiple dreams about eating a massive portion of fish and chips complete with salt and vinegar. Considering I still can't taste anything, maybe that's just my brain wishing.
Also managed to offer up the cool cover crazyhorse sent over, looks like it'll fit a goodun!
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Fitted pannier rails to the bike. Getting ready (very early) for European trip in August
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Went to sportsbikeshop in Harlow...
Spent too much money ..!! :bawl:
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Went in the garage and started The B up for the first time since October. First prod and it sung... :lala:
Just as it got up to one bar on the temp gauge a biblical storm arrived... ###
Pffffffftttttt.
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Went to sportsbikeshop in Harlow...
Spent too much money ..!! :bawl:
Kwackboy I haven’t been yet but I must go. I have been buying stuff online for years but now there is one so close I will go and have a look round.
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A friend of mine runs it, it's a nice shop with plenty to choose from.
It's about 30miles from me but as the weather was nice I thought I'd have a little run up there for a mooch ..
My wallet was a bit lighter after I left . :bawl:
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Not very exciting, but I managed to get some weedkiller sprinkled around the garden. It's getting choked with all manner of naughty vegeatation, some of which I've not seen before but is growing and spreading quite vigorously.
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Very French 2112, use the toilet next time, you won't worry the neighbours........ lol
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Have you seen the price of Roundup these days? Every little helps...
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I have taken to using a homebrew cocktail of white vinegar, salt and laundry liquid. It keeps the weeds down without poisoning the local cats and dogs. it does have to be oversprayed every week and it doesn't kill the roots. It is quite effective when sprayed on the huge blackberry thing invading my garden. It stopped the development of the berries and prevented the wasp and bee problems of previous years.
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I have tried this method, but found the lingering smell of vinegar a bit too unpleasant. Does knock weeds down quick though.
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Today, it was time to get the suitcases out and get packing for a week in Menorca (Cala en Bosch). Never been to Menorca before (been to Majorca & Ibiza loads) but it looks very pleasant. The hotel looks nice and gets great reviews and we've even upgraded to a suite. I can hardly wait for the alarm to go off at 03:45 tomorrow morning mind...
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Hope you have a great holiday 👍
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Cheers, looking forward to it :thumb:
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Went for a ride to Durdle Dor, without the benefit of intercom as wife’s intercom faulty. Stop 30 minutes after leaving when wife shouts she has lost her phone. Ride back to Durdle Dor to look for it, thinking it fell out in car park when she put her jacket on. Ring phone to find it was in her “other” inside pocket she didn’t know existed, all the time. Get intercom unit to replace faulty one only to find problem was a poor battery connection. Send unit back for refund (thanks helmet City).
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Dare I say that you may need to consider more than one faulty item....... :shrug:
Don't know if they all come with lifetime refund though. :whistle:
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Not today but yesterday. I went for a pre med before being operated on next month. One of the many tests was to squeeze on a device that measured the strength of my hands. I was asked which was my predominant hand, my right and then the device clearly showed that my left hand is much stronger than my right.
I was a bit puzzled at the time but realised later that I pull the brake on my bike with my right hand, and pull the clutch (and hold it) with the left (obviously). I wonder if all motorcyclists would be the same in having a stronger left hand?
I remember reading or hearing somewhere that barmaids have one boob bigger than the other (if only slightly) because of repeatedly pulling pints with their predominant hand. Anyway, just an observation and useless peace of information. :thumb:
I wonder what I could do to exercise my right hand more to equal things up. :roll:
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An old British single with a kickstarter is a great way to get lopsided muscles.....
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Swap the clutch & front brake over, doc. That'll even it out. Then lend your bike to a mate.
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@Dr 46,
I had a physical / dexterity assessment before starting at Rolls Royce in '12, part of which included a strength test... asked which was my dominant hand I replied "right" as I'm right handed, which was tested first then the left hand which turned out to be stronger over a greater duration. Seeing the puzzled look on my face the Dr said "that in most cases the less dominant hand is stronger because it does all the holding, steadying etc". Also most people are also likely to have less dexterity / flexibility in their non-dominant hand due to the aforementioned... opinions vary of course.
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An old boy I used to work with ,now long retired, was VERY right handed.
40 plus years of rubbing down boats by hand only using his right was noticeable in his huge right bicep :icon_wink:
His party trick was getting you to stand on the blade of a shovel,then he would pick it up, you with it !!!!!
Ho Hum
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I'm completely ambidextrous. I can do bugger all with both hands.
I'll get me coat.....
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Are these a THING!
I hope so as I've just bought em.
HSS CO drill bits. Bought......well.....why wouldn't you buy a new tool.....because they're supposed to be super tough. I will put them in a VERY safe place so I can't find em when I need em.
That's a plan then, pffffffftttttt.
:grin:
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Ahhh well now.............that depends.
Does the C stand for Cobalt or Chineseium.
Heller bits are not bad, so probably the former.
They do last longer , but at a price, especially for hard metals but can be brittle, best in a pillar drill or go easy.
We do get them at work ,but only when a rep comes in with them on offer.
For us it is cheaper to get HSS 'cos then when you drop one off the boat ,either in the water (gone) or onto the concrete ,Cobalts don't like that, it is less of a loss.
But ....yes a thing.
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Today, I returned from a weeks holiday in Menorca looking like a bronze god (sadly, Buddha) to a very wet & miserable Newcastle airport. Unusually, there was a LOT of customs prescence with customs officers and police all over the place. We got straight through mind, must look respectable or something...
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Been tinkering with my Honda, getting back to a respectable commutable condition after a crash last month.
Many thanks to the ever adaptive cable tie... :icon_wink:
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And don't forget duct tape, if you haven't fixed it with duct tape, it just means you haven't used enough :lala:
Ho Hum
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When I was in the army (a lifetime ago) I realised that if the enemy had found a chemical to destroy duct tape and bungees they could wipe out the British army. :thumb:
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Today I started by cleaning and sorting the utility room, all the fishing gear and tools and bike gear are all nicely organised :shrug:
I then set about doing a service and steering wheel squib change on SWMBO's Quashqui.
Service was all good apart from all the bodywork pop clips that hold the under-tray on all fell to pieces.
Luckily Nissan fitted a couple a of pointless in fill panels in the engine bay, yes infill panels, not covering anything, just to neaten up the engine bay :shock: - well they were pinned in place with the same 8mm pop clips I needed for the under tray :fix:
Ordered a bag of 50 from Amazon, as I'm likely to need more next service and there should be 6 holding the under tray not 4 anyway.
The Squib change didn't go so well, got the airbag off the wheel, all controls and panels off.
You need to swap the steering wheel position sensor over to the new squib on the aftermarket ones, but the Nissan one is over £250 but the parts place have supplied the wrong one and the sensor tabs don't line up :angry-banghead:
All back together with the original squib and I'm going to console myself with a calzone from the local pizza place :happydance:
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Took the kids cycling around Sherwood Pines. Just as we joined the A1 from the A64 a blue 63 plate Glee went past Followed the rider until the A1/M1 splits whereupon the Glee picked up the pace.
Good to have a day with the kids though a small part missed the Glee especially at the traffic jam on the A1 where they're doing never ending bridge repairs.
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I have succesfully completed the 6 month, second stage cardiac rehabilitation programme and move on to stage 3 on Monday. This is the last step and runs in perpetuity, as long as I want to keep fit basically. I'ts during the day this time, but work have been superb and I can just just move my schedule around it. We also have a cracking shower at work so I can get freshened up when I get back. Looking forward to it, but I know it will be a bit more strenuous than the last sessions. Still, no point slacking off now.
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Last week I was reversing my car and clipped the edge of the wing mirror damaging the LED indicator in it. Ordered a used one off eBay and it arrived today.
Using my skills of working with plastic clip things on my debeak project I got the swap done fairly quickly and all good. But jings the wires! There is a motor to fold the thing, a puddle light, a motor to adjust the mirror, the indicator LED thingy, wires to the heated mirror and finally some sort of thermostat thingy with wires also on the mirror glass.
And yes strictly speaking it is a door mirror not a wing mirror.
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I'm glad you sorted that out at the end, I had 'it's a door mirror ' in my head all the way through, you were in for a right tongue lashing otherwise! :icon_wink:
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you were in for a right tongue lashing otherwise! :icon_wink:
Dodged a bullet there then :grin:
I also discovered the thermostat thingy I referred to is in fact an auto-dimming feature. The glass alone is about £300 to £350!! I'm glad I didn't know that before I took it out, I'd have been a bundle of nerves.
A heated only glass is a £40, so if I ever need a new glass guess what I'll be doing!
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Today it was my first 'stage 3' cardiac rehab' session, which is a bit of a step up from stage 2. I was happy how I did, but it's definitely more intense! Also, my new Spada Splash textile gloves arrived from Sportsbike shop today. They are very light, breathable and comfy from the off. Very happy with tham and at £14.99 you just can't get robbed. Cracking summer gloves.
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The second day of the Battle of the Brambles. I might have mentioned before the huge patch of brambles invading my property from adjacent land. Yesterday I set to and cleared some and today some more. If I can work my way up the banking I can get it all cleared in another five or six days subject to dry weather. A local landscape company quoted £3000 to clear the land. That's why, despite my extreme decrepitude I am having a go at it.
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Busy day today, strimmed & then cut the grass, trimmed some shrubbery with the hedge cutter and then dropped the bevel box oil in my tigger. It's not actually a service item except for the first 600 mile service. As it's over 3 years old I thought a bit of fresh oil would be nice. Hardly worth the bother as what came out was as clean as a whistle. Some Motul fully synthetic 75/90w hypoid oil has gone back in.
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As it was a nice dry warm day I had round three of the battle of the brambles, and now I am truly nackered. Some tendrils were 12 feet long and still tried to fight me when I poked one end in the shredder. As it was being chewed away it whipped round and slashed me like a spikey triffid.
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1, triffids hell yeah one for gen z
2, you know that clearing brambles is a feck sight easier in winter when they die back ?
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Could not let them run wild until next winter as they were already more than halfway accross the garage roof. In any case these Brambles are some alien variety that laughs at frost and bathes in snow. This how it was in early April.
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Yesterday morning, I gave the old girl a bit of soapy love. First chance after the trip to Wales last weekend. In the afternoon I & a few mates went, by bus, to a local village that was doing a beer & cider festival. A lovely 'few' pints sitting in the sunshine, putting the world to rights & enjoying life.
Today, we did a 100 mile round trip to watch one of the grandkids play in his teams football cup final. Unfortunately they lost 4-3 but very enjoyable non the less.
Coming back mid afternoon a sudden urge for bacon overcame me so we detoured to a local(ish) café ( Rascal's, Foston, Derbys') where we consoled ourselves with a bacon cob & a sausage cob plus coffee.
Rascal's is a nice little place, serving decent food at a decent price, not far from the A50 if you're going East or West. :thumb:
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First chance to clean the bike? A week later? Busy, no doubt.
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No time to scratch my arse Martyn. It's difficult to find spare time when you're retired!
Did I mention I'm retired? :grin:
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It took me 3 days to go and get all my gear out of my panniers after the Wales trip.... the bike is still filthy!
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Starting on mine now. Did the screen when I got home to stop the bugs etching it, now it's a chain & sprockets clean, wash the bike, adjust & oil chain.
2112, still got that gear oil?
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Yes, but it'll need wringing out from the bits of blue roll in the bin...
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Today, it's bags packed for a wine 'weekend' in Wooler. A visit to Ad Gefrin (whiskey distillery - https://adgefrin.co.uk/) tomorrow and then Chillingham Castle (https://chillingham-castle.com/) which is alledgedly Britains most haunted castle, on Tuesday. I don't know if it's Britains most haunted castle but It's certainly one of the draughtier ones, having stayed there a few years ago for a wedding, in February. All the visits will be accompanied by fine wines. These are usually good fun and Suzanne who organises them really knows her wines. Sadly, it's a very early start on Wednesday as I'm doing a lecture all day...
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Had a new windcreen fitted to Doblo. It has been so bad for so long that I Keep looking at it and checking that there is actually a windscreen there.
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I got home from the hospital yesterday afternoon after an operation on 13th May. Today I had to inject myself. I was a medic for 3/4 years so have injected many people many times but nothing prepared me for sticking a needle into myself.
It was all over in a flash and I didn't feel a thing but the build up was so distressing that I forgot to mention those few words just before going in "You may feel a small prick". There are twenty more to give before it's over so I may get it right soon.. :thumb:
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I imagine it take a good deal of inner strength to perform a self injection. Although these days they tend to say "just a little scratch". I hope all goes well for you.
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Thank you Brockett. Indeed they do say "Little scratch" nowadays but little prick is funnier and when I was giving hundreds of injections to soldiers for days on end it brought forward some hilarious comments that would lighten up the day. :smirk: :thumb:
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yes but even so whenever I have an injection I imagine they will say "just a little prick" and it makes me chuckle. And we all need a chuckle now and then.
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Went up the allotment yesterday to plant our well nursed from seed runner beans , all planted wigwam style with new canes , looked the dogs nuts , been up today with the dogs for a walk ……no runner beans ! , about 0.5 mm stalk left poking out the soil , I am sure I saw a wabbit giving me the finger in the next field , going to get a ferret ….
Friday I had my 3 monthly hormone injection , previous nurse required just dropping my jeans to a point where a small part of my arse cheek being visible , needle inserted , job done . Friday’s nurse was a woman mountain around 18 stone with arms like Popeye , she requested to drop my jeans to my knees before the jab ! , full arse exposure ! , reckon she fancied me ………
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Lots of slugs about in these 'damp' conditions? Don't like doing it, because it's not good for the Hedgehog population, but we put slug pellets down around ours when we put them in Thursday, I'll let you know if it worked tomorrow. :)
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It's been a DIY day today, assembled 2 x wardrobes and a set of drawers. Another two sets of drawers to go tomorrow - deep joy.
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OWDBLOKE, just back from the allotment & the Runner Beans are still there. :thumb:
The other good method for getting rid of slugs, & better for the Hedgehogs, is beer.
Get some drip tray or remains after a barrel change from your local, cut the bottom off 1l plastic pop bottles (about 3" - 4" deep), bury in the ground, almost to the rim & put an 1" or so beer in there. The slugs love a drop of beer & go in for it but unfortunately can't swim.
It's a bit messy cleaning them out but at least you'll have Runner Beans, cabbage & Brussels. :grin:
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It is a shame someone hasn't got round to renting hedgehogs.
Imagine someone coming to the allotment with some kind of mobile roost for the spiky buggers with half a dozen in.
Plops it down and opens the door , that night.......slug carnage....... in the morning he comes back, closes the door on the roost full of well fed hedgies.
Bit like mole catchers of old.
Hmmm.........Kickstarter funding anyone?
Ho Hum
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Hmm, no still not clear enough.
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Last try,
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The end,
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Planted out my leeks today, between showers. My bean poles are up but will plant out the beans next weekend probably, with a protective ring of slug pellets. Found one of the little baskets in the greenhouse this morning, heading for the bean plants - it's dead now of course.
Had some peeling edges in the wallpaper I put up 20 years ago so while rain stopped weeding this afternoon I had a go with a tube of repair adhesive. Fingers crossed it holds. Although if it does I will have to paint both back bedrooms as the curly edges were my excuse not to :whistle:
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As my France trip is only 3 weeks away, I thought I had better add the luggage 😁
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Nice one Mick , cheers, yea always concerned re: Hedgehogs , the missus said there was a plant sale today locally so off we jollied and returned with runner bean plants so planted today with slug pellets scattered , we put netting around the canes to deter any hog activity , fingers crossed , really sunny day so took the bike out for a run , 20 minutes later it pi..ed down ….. nice….
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You can buy sheep wool pellets which apparently slugs don't like crossing and it's hedgehog friendly.
I did a 32 mile mountain bike ride today. Mainly flat but was on an old heavy bike so got a good workout.
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I appear to have bought a new toy to sit alongside the tigger. It's a Victory Crossroads of 2010 vintage, displacing 1731cc and making only 97hp (but 152nm of torque). Summer use only -
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Very nice 2112 👍 it will sit nice beside your Tigger and You have plenty of room in your man cave 👍
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Alternative view -
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Renewed my bikes insurance with Bikesure although because I don't have a strom I don't get the forum discount. Does anybody?
Weirdly
V7 Special £350
V7 Stone £12.50
XJ600n £12.50
With the admin fee £402
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Today I took the love of my life (Deb came too :)) to Powerslide in Derby where I left her for a couple of hours to go & test ride the 800RE.
What a lovely bike. Obviously has more power & lots more torque than the 650, the ergonomics are excellent, for me anyway, at 5' 10" & 29" inside leg. With my thick soled boots both feet firmly touching down. I might try bar risers though. Plus what seemed like a very comfortable seat too. Brakes & suspension (Nitron fitted to the 650) were better too.
The weight isn't much different but the 800 feels much lighter to handle, not sure why but it just does.
It took me a while to get used to the quickshifter, even after 2 hours on the bike I was still not quite there. (1st time I've rode a bike with one) Before I rode it I would have been happy not to have it & have a centre stand instead but I'm sure, once used to it, I'll be glad it has it. Besides, I got a very good deal on the centre stand. :icon_wink:
I've (we've as Deb had a lot of say too) had it fully kitted out ready for touring.
The only three things we could find a problem with were ....
1. The screen is bloody awful, the buffeting above 50mph up to motorway speeds was shocking, far worse than my 650 ever was before the Airflow was fitted. Wind noise wasn't too bad though.
2. The rear pillion pegs are sitting a little higher than on the 650 & Deb's legs are more bent, not bad but might be an issue.
3. There's not as much room on the seat for the two of us as the 650. The demo bike didn't have a back box so it'll be interesting to see what it's like when we get it, complete with back box.
Anyway, deposit paid & should be ready in a couple of weeks, giving us a few days to get 500 miles on it before our trip to Scotland at the end of the month.
Gone for the Sparkle black (the same as out 650) with aluminium panniers & back box.
A couple of photos to prove it happened. :)
PS, not much room under the seat but should get a bigpie fuse box under there. :thumb:
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Nice one Mick (and deb) ... :)
Although I've not riden one yet , I've sat on a few and they felt small compared to the 650 however, I do like them better with the 21inch front wheel.
Enjoy ... :thumb:
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It is going to be nice to hear from another rider going from the 650 directly to the 800 RE.
I am probably going to do the same when second hand / demo bikes get on the market, by then a rear shock upgrade
hopefully becomes available for my fat arse.
The vibes obviously were not an issue for you, I "noticed " them , but after a 650 everything vibes, and after 10 mins forgot about them.
Enjoy. :thumb:
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Very nice, enjoy :thumb:
Regarding the quickshifter, I used to think they were nothing more than a waste of time on an adventure bike. But, after a long day it's a godsend and makes getting to your destination/home a pleasure not a chore. You'll get used to it soon enough. I find just ever so slightly easing off the throttle (less than you would with a 'normal' gear change) helps keep things smooth. Use the clutch around town too, they can get a bit jerky at low speeds.
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Today I bought an open face helmet to go with my recent Victory Crossroads purchase. It's a Roeg Jettison and is very light & remarkably comfortable. I can see me wearing it on the tiger on very warm days. Finished, of course, in matt black. It has a little peak/visor too which is fitted and sets it off a treat.
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After having to ride for 1 hour on the M6 last Sunday, noticed that my Caberg helmet was rattling around my head like a pea in a tin can. :shock: Decided to investigate and took the helmet apart. Well that came as a shock as most of the foam lining had gone at the front. :icon_no: Replacement came today so spent 2 hours trying to fit it back in with my comms set up. Pain of a job, but fits like a glove, ride out Saturday to test the helmet. :auto-dirtbike:
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Nigel, to be honest I didn't feel any vibes at any speed, I thought my 650 was vibe free (maybe got used to it) but the 800 (demo bike) was smooth .... other than the buffeting.
Let's wait & see what the purchased one will be like. :shrug:
2112, I'm sure the quickshifter will be something to enjoy. It didn't take long to realise that slow speeds needed the clutch, my main problem was what I'll put down to muscle memory, letting off the throttle when going up & trying to blip the throttle going down! :)
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How to wear a pisspot ,fag hanging out the gob an all.
The eyes.......1000 yard stare if ever I saw one.
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Is that Bill Ivy?
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Crump,
I'm afraid I don't know who it is . It is a sleeve cover from a Maruja release.
https://youtu.be/Lh-FQrYdZlY
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Not Bill Ivy
I looks like Jago P Struthers who was leading the 200 mile race by two minutes when he stopped to ask the crowd for a light. He would have lost the race to up and coming rider Milburn Chadwick had he not stopped for over a minute to refill his pipe.
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Trip with Mum and sis round the Spanish Galleon Andalucia.
Mum was as usual into every nook and cranny having a fine time.
I had my boatbuilders head on and kept asking questions to the very helpful staff.
Recommended if it is coming to a port near you.
A few random pics.
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Where was that Nigel s?
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She is currently at South Quay in Great Yarmouth.
Here is her itinerary,
https://tallshipsnetwork.com/vessels/galeon-andalucia/
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Sat on a bridge watching the bikes go up the M6. Must have been several thousands going to Barrow, Si King was at the front riding in memory of his best mate Dave.
Has been all over the news raising money for cancer research. Well done to everyone who took part.
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Got the new all-in-one PC fully set up and I'm using it now. It's an impressive bit of kit and very fast compared to the old one. The new home office has come out well too, which were both happy about.
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Ikea's finest Malm gets everywhere.
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Indeed, Malm wardrobes in the corner too...
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Good stuff but you encorage spider corners, I see...... Missus OK with that too? :icon_wink:
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.
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Good stuff but you encorage spider corners, I see...... Missus OK with that too? :icon_wink:
We have a cleaner...
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2112 - Re the new helmet. What are these "warm days" you spoke of. Remind me please.
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I may have jumped the gun a bit with that statement. It appears to be as wet as an otters pocket at the moment, maybe it'll come in handy when I'm overseas ?
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As of the 10th of june the local 14 day forecast showed rain every day except one Thursday 13th. Last night the Central heating, which is set at 18 degrees, came on for the first time since the 5th of May. The Jet stream is turning the weather into a stream of yellow. Hats off to everyone who has a daily commute on a motorcycle.
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The rain is definitely warmer at the moment mind. A lady from work is getting married on Saturday, It's not looking too clever on the weather front for her and her future hubby sadly...
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About 100 miles on the bike today, first time on the road since new fork oil (7.5W) and increasing the air gap by 10mm.I have done this on my two previous Vstroms and it makes a very noticeable difference to the ride quality on the front.The bike has only done 5000 mls.now but it is 10 yrs.old and the old oil was quite thick and
”metallicy” looking(if that is a correct word ?) plus it was way lower than Suzuki specify by about 50mm,plus one of the springs was in upside down,so I am suspecting that the assembly person at Suzuki cocked up when they built the forks.Quite cool this morning over the Snake but it has been a nice day to be out.
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Today saw a lot of internet searching to book just over a weeks holiday in Scotland. The prices for accommodation have gone through the roof and I categorically refuse to pay £180 for a Travelodge! So after a lot of searching we are staying at Glenrothes for a night, Ballater for 3 nights (afternoon tea at Balmoral Castle on our wedding anniversary, like you do), Aviemore for two nights, a night in Oban and then a night in Peebles on the way home. Should be a good trip and I've designed it around EV charging too.
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2112, check out the tea room inside the old Ballater station, plus the carriage and Royal waiting room. Very plush.
I do like Peebles. Especially the chocolate cafe.
Enjoy.
Upt.
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Yes, the tea room is very nice indeed. I've had quite a few trips to Ballater over the years and it's a nice place to stay. It's got a cracking Indian restaurant too :thumb:
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I haven't done much today, I was awake most of last night with indigestion but I did take a ride to the supermarket between showers. I parked as close as I could to the entrance of Lidle. When I came out with my shopping there was a lady sitting 3ft away from my bike and had a baby girl in a pushchair. I asked the lady would she please move away while I start my bike because it's loud and would frighten the baby.
I was told that the little girl loved bikes so don't worry. Sure enough, when I started the bike the little one sat up and watched with big smile. I revved a couple of times and she loved it. I wonder if one day she will be a biker? :thumb:
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Today saw a mad-dash to get the grass cut before it rained. It just about worked and I got wet for the last little bit of the back lawn. Happy & relieved in equal measures.
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Gave my scooter a wash ... it took 5mins .. :GRR:
Now what ... :dl_hyperhysteria:
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See if you can shoehorn on that spare FJR tyre on the scooter ?
Expanding foam sounds good?
Just for shits and giggles :shrug:
Ho Hum
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Picked up the new to me scooter yesterday.
Today I started by striping the panels off and sprayed ACF50 on everything.
Some of the panels had the normal screws replaced by long wood screws :icon_batterup:
Replaced with proper screws and a few exposed ones were replaced with stainless bolt and locknut.
Tidied up the little screen mounts as my OCD was going mental this the haphazard setup/alignment.
Also took the exhaust baffle out and bodged a fix to make it slightly quieter.... it certainly is writing very large cheques the bike can't cash. lol
Gave the brakes a once over.
Next came a good scrub, something I think it hadn't had in a long time judging by the mess under the seat.
Took it for a spin, 20 miles and discovered the speedo is a bit optimistic, 50mph is more like 40mph.
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I've been stripping the engine out of an old 1989 Honda GB250 today after finding lots of metal bits in the oil and a jammed up transmission... clutch and everything else seems fine. Can you bloody believe it but the exhaust nuts/studs came clean out, didn't even have to swear at them.
That normally means something else is going to become a problem, like finding bloody parts!
Self tappers for side cover screws? Even I wouldn't stoop that low!
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"50mph is more like 40mph."
Still double the limit for Wales, then. lol
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Yeah, but we're cutting down the speed cameras at a fast rate 🤣🤣🤣
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:thumb: keep up the good work!
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I finally rode my late father's Honda Cub which I have been restoring for about 3 years. 1974 vintage but it had sat in a garden for about 30 years. Economically it was well past saving, but it was the first bike I ever went on as pillion, probably aged 7 or 8. I was quite keen on getting it going for Father's day. Still some fettling to do, but she's back together and looking good. Semi auto box is interesting, and the chain is catching somewhere, so I've only done a few hundred meters, but that was the best ride ever. Rest in peace Dad.
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:text-goodpost:
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Pics of the Cub please!?
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P.D.
Your dad would be proud of you.
Well done fella.
And yes.....where are the damn pictures.
Upt.
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Escaped death - took the new scooter on the motorway in rush-hour traffic into Swansea. :shock:
I got overtaken by everyone including Biker-Plod who I thought was going to pull me (small scooter on the motorway maybe a learner), I think he was just pissing himself laughing and waiting to have to sweep me up off the road. lol
I had to follow plod all the way to work and forgo the advantages of filtering on a bike - the roads policing team are based across the road from my office. :shrug:
Think I'll go home via the local roads - should still be quicker than stuck in traffic in the car. :auto-dirtbike:
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Nothing wrong with filtering in traffic, on my advanced riding test (many years ago) my policeman examiner congratulated me on leaving him behind in very heavy traffic. He told me, if you can't make safe progress on a motorbike you are not an advanced rider.
I filtered passed a police car in Exeter a couple of days ago. :thumb:
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I totally agree, but the filtering required at a few junctions would likely get me a talking to.
I did filter behind the bike fuzz, but stayed behind him when he stopped, where if were any other biker, I would have passed them.
1250RT's don't go through small gaps.
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Today we took advantage of the sunny weather and went to visit Cragside Hall at Rothbury. It's most famous for being the first domestic residence to be lit by electricity and it had it's own hydro system. It also briefly featured in one of the recent Jurassic Park movies too. It's a grand old place and it has a lovely 6 mile drive through woodland as well.
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Rothbury is a lovely place - had a couple of holidays up there and visited Cragside while we were there last time. Lord Armstrong made a fair bit from arms manufacture but was quite the visionary when if came to things like tinkering with hydro and electrickery.
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Just because my pals have given up riding I am not missing a sunny warm day but where is there for Billy no Mates to go? Shuttleworth and a tea at the cafe. 194 mile round trip. Well it's a start.
The MV F4 is not mine :bawl: I went on the Stone.
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Tried to add Cub pic, I'm getting a message that the file has failed security checks. Any ideas?
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Seems I can add a short video clip though, see attached or in the videoclips section. The noise was the chain alignment.
https://www.v-strom.co.uk/smf/index.php?topic=43397.0
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Pannier Down,
That is a fine piece of work sir :thumb:
As to pics try resizing them first, to below 1mb,ish....... though what the cut off size is ..not sure?
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Tonight I took the big Victory out for a little trundle around South East Northumberland. In all honesty, it's not really much use as a motorbike however, I have a massive grin on my face from the sheer theatre of riding such a daft bike. Madness, but fun :grin:
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I know how you feel 2112,
I rode my uncles XS650 hardtail chop after rebuilding the engine for him.
It had no brakes to speak of, was a pig in town or over bumps , and would NOT go round a corner for love nor money.
But still... same as you ....HUGE grin.... :shrug:
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The Yamaha XV1700 Roadstar Silverado was the same. A bike even bigger than it's name. It was a ride from Hawes to Horton via Ribblehead that made me get rid and buy the glee.
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Today I received a text with the Registration number of my/our new 800 RE so I rang my existing insurance company to get it insured. I got a quote a couple of weeks ago & once they put the new reg in it jumped the price by £200 (They had made a mistake with the original quote, I had no registration number then & they left the reg for the 11 year old 650 in. :smirk:
My existing company & myself parted company as friends & there will be no charge to cancel the old policy, it has 5 weeks left on it but no refund either.
A quick phone call & I got sorted with a price the same as the original quote. :) £332 inc breakdown cover. A bit lot more than the 650 but the RE is worth a bit lot more.
Now awaiting a call to say it's ready for pick up. :dance:
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Today I did ride an bus. It was good.
£4 return from Keswick to Windermere on the A591.
Cheaper than driving there & paying for parking.
And I could have a pint.
So I did.
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Rather than watching what I'm led to believe was a lack-lustre England performance, I went to the (almost completely deserted) leisure centre and played badminton for two hours solid. I am now officially knackered! A cheeky glass of wine is on the cards though...
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Yesterday really, but I've been too busy to fit a post in until now.
Took the old 650 to the local dealer & left it there in PX for a new bike.
Sad to see it go, but after almost 11 years there was a little itch that needed scratching. :icon_wink:
Took home the 800RE & can't wait to see if it's anywhere near as good as the 650 ..... at the moment the signs are positive. :thumb:
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Got to change your avatar too Mick!
Green with envy here......... :icon_drool5:
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I had a fairly hefty 4 hours in the garden today, trimming shrubs & hedges. Top tip for you gardeners - don't trim Pyracanthas (fire thorn) with shorts on... I look like I've been mauled by Lions. I took the big Victory out for a 50 mile bimble and returned home with a big, stupid grin on my face. Happy.
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lol lol
Glad you are enjoying the Victory and the big stupid grin says it all :thumb:
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Got to change your avatar too Mick!
As soon as I get a good one, hopefully this week in Scotland? :thumb:
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Out on the V7 Special to the V7 Facebook Group summer meet-up at the Shuttleworth Museum Cafe. A great turn out considering the showery weather in the morning with over 30 bikes. 220 mile round trip for me and having given the bike a high legal speed run as I got home the engine felt a little less tight. Still only 2700 miles on the dash, so some way to go before the magic 10,000 target to consider the bike fully run in. I stopped for a quick snap at the Water Tower on the way home.
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Mick, is that your old Glee I see on ebay by Poweslide of Derby?
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No biking, but finally filling a skip with the remains of the sheds I patraily took down a while back.
And general garden/ shed clear out.
Picture of the half time break.
And a final one when we put my father in law's kayak on the skip for a laugh (he keeps it in our big shed)
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I love destroying stuff nearly as much as building stuff :thumb:
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I had a busy day in the garden with some pruning, trimming, planting & mowing! After that it was time to freshen up and take the 'batmobile' out for a spin. I ended up at Alnwick for a couple of pictures at the Castle & Tower. Now it's cider o'clock in the garden :thumb:
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Pottergate Tower & Alnwick Castle -
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It won't let me post two pictures ? Odd. Resized and everything?
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I tend to add one and post it, then modify the post and add another - that's how I had to do my post above.
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Sometimes if I am having problems I will open another tab, load the site and the first then uploads... :shrug:
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Mick, is that your old Glee I see on ebay by Poweslide of Derby?
Yes it is & it'll a great buy for anyone who's looking for one. 😉
It'll be interesting to see what it goes for. :grin:
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Well I had a try/bid on it Mick, but it went over my budget in the end (additional £250 delivery to Kent). :thumb:
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Checked the car over & started packing for an 8 day holiday in Scotland. Tea at Balmoral on our wedding anniversary should be the highlight.
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Today and yesterday, I watched what I think are polecats at the bottom of the garden. They were playing in a large mound of cut grass, I counted four. At about 1900 hrs last night one of them skirmished around the edge of open ground and returned with a rat. It or another left following the same path some 15 minutes later and came back with a rabbit almost as big as itself.
I pulled myself away from the football as much as I could to continue watching and they stayed active until about 2145 when I made a cup of tea and went to watch again only to see nothing. I found a site online to report my sighting and did. Today I received a short email from a lady asking had I photographed or filmed what I saw, I replied that I hadn't as I was watching through binoculars from 75 yards away. I then received a reply saying "Thank you, I just thought I would ask".
When I told my landlord what I had seen (he is a retired farmer) he told me that they would not have been polecat but stoats. Now I have spent a lot of time on the internet today looking at pictures and watching films and also reading about polecats and where they are expected to be seen in the UK. Devon is not a place where you would expect to see them and I think that is why the lady who replied to my report of the sighting was so very brief in her answer.
Even though I may be wrong and they could be stoats I am still 99% certain they are polecats, they look like polecats, act like polecats so I believe they are. They don't have the same colouring as stoats and stoats don't have a mask.
I have been watching them again tonight but as it wasn't so warm and sunny they were not so active. One thing I did notice though, although they look almost adult size they are still immature. One of them was watching two large woodpigeon walking close to where he was but in open ground 15 yards away. He was in a crack between some large boulders with just his masked face showing. Right in front of him was a rabbit standing with his back to him. A perfect easy meal but what did he do, he broke cover and chased the pigeon's so caught nothing.
I wish I had a camera with a long lens so I could photograph them but at least I have had the pleasure of seeing them and probably will tomorrow too. :thumb:
Ramble over. Goodnight :)
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Got back home after a cracking mini tour of Scotland. We did a gentle loop around the lower half of Scotland with a night in Glenrothes, 3 x nights in Ballater, 2 x nights in Aviemore, a night in Oban & the last night in Peebles. We avoided 99% of the rain and didn't get bitten once by the dreaded midgies! Afternoon tea at Balmoral on our wedding anniversary was one of the highlights of the trip.
The downside was that the EV charging network is mostly broken, app's don't work or in such demand that there were often queues. Luckily, the car we took has a near 300 mile range, otherwise we would have been forced to wait at a few places. All in all a great holiday.
Pic 1, Balmoral Castle, Pic 2, Inverness, Pic 3, The Kelpies & Pic 4 the view from Cairngorm back to Aviemore, note the rain heading our way - but missing!
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A few pictures with the drone from this afternoon in Appledore Kent.
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A couple more
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Spent the most of the day in the attic replacing TV coax cables Our nearest mobile mast which is also a relay TV transmitter, since it's been updated to 5G we've had interference on the bedroom TV's. Can't complain all the cables and loft arial were here when we bought the house 36 years ago. Bit of a pain running cables down beside the internal downpipes, but it shouldn't need doing again for a long time.
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I don't know Appledore in Kent but round here in the 70s the Appledore was known as a big time hippy area with all the free love you could find ...........
So I am told........ :icon_wink:
There and Meeting Hill ........for those that were there in the moment.......good times :happydance:
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The zips on my Daytona boots are very stiff and I remembered the leaflet in the box mentioning some branded zip lubricant. One Google search later I was laughing hysterically at the price and noticed it was PTFE-based. Took boots to the garage, fished out a Screwfix can of PTFE spray, and with a mini brush and a few squirts aimed into a small pot, I now have smooth running zips. :dance:
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I'm in the good books with the Mrs because I've booked a long weekend in Glasgow for us at the end of August. Train up, nice hotel, a couple of nice meals out and a bit of shopping. It doesn't take that much to keep her happy really...
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.
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I have been asked to fly my drone at a heritage site As they have a very leaky roof in the Museum area, and would like some overhead pictures to see if any problems could be spotted. Having looked at the pictures I have spotted some possible problems of where the water might be getting in. The problem they have is as it is a English heritage site any repair must be done using age related materials.
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I suppose a couple of layers of fibreglass is right out then? :grin:
Though the first patent was 1880, and the Chinese (of course ) had been using it in jewellery for 100s of years , so.... :shrug:
Ho Hum
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Nice reason to fly a drone and put a positive tick in the box for them.
I hate these people who sit on committees set up to tell everyone else how to live.
They would rather the building fell into ruin than see the roof fixed and the roof can't be seen anyway, hence the need for a drone.
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"Having looked at the pictures I have spotted some possible problems of where the water might be getting in."
I think you might have understated that! lol
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today I stripped the carbs on the XJ and gave the starter jets a squirt or cleaner. Getting ready for bike night at Old Buckenham and seeing it start to rain and after checking see it's going to rain for and hour or so. Just enough to cancel that trip. Same last Friday when rain cancelled my trip to Billingford. I think the weather is trying to keep me away from 'bike nights'.
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At least it is not like some thrown up modern houses.What looks like brick built is actually a wood frame with bricks as cladding, when water gets in those when the roof goes..........
I wonder if the people buying them even realise.
Mild rant over.
Ho Hum
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nigel s wouldn’t that be great if they could use a couple of layers of fibreglass that would do a good job 👍
Brockett Yes I think you are right about the heritage committee, not only a huge cost to them but I should imagine a nightmare to find the materials !!
As you say the roof cannot be seen ? In one of the pictures where there is a crack in the ridge tile a few tiles along there seems to be one that has been replaced at some time but does not match very well.
Joe Rocket lol yes I did rather didn’t I lol hopefully these pictures and the video will know help them to get something done about it ? The chap who asked me to help them out with the use of my drone was saying where the roof has been leaking for so long some of the roof trusses are rotten !!
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I received the dreaded 'car insurance renewal' email today. The jokers wanted £680 ! A quick comparison of meerkats showed that insurance at a far more reasonable £330 was available (includes business use, fully comprehensive) - from my current insurer! I thought that was supposed to have been banned ? The get out would be that it was part of their 'summer sale', yeah right.
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Today saw myself & our HR manager interview (via video call) 11 candidates for 2 x apprentice electrical engineer positions. We were pleasantly surprised at the quality of the candidates and it made for very some tough descisions. After a LOT of discussion, debate, arguments & counter-arguments we finally reduced the original 11 down to 5. These lucky 5 will be invited into our office for a face to face interview with a couple of technical tests thrown in at some point next week. To be honest, any of the 5 would probably be OK, but we need to make sure we get people who will be the right 'fit' for our company. A golden opportunity & a new career in renewable energy awaits two fortunate yoofs.
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It is a growing industry, good to see the investment in people and training :thumb:
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Today Deb & myself went to Matlock Bath. Not on the bike but on the train. We took the daughter & grandson for a few hours in the amusement arcades (why are they called that? It doesn't amuse me wasting my money on those machines :old:) fish & chips & ice cream.
Nice day out.
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Myself and the wife had her nieces stay for a couple of days. So we took them to the zoo, we had a very good day.
Sorry about the quality of the pictures as most were taken through glass. The chimpanzee had a little baby clinging to her.
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You made a proper monkey's Donkey job of the last photo .. :icon_wink: lol
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I love that filter :lala:
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lol I know not the best shot but it was the only one where you can see the baby’s little hands holding on lol
I also have one of 1 following the other with its fingers where the sun don’t shine lol but decided not to add that one :icon_no:
The ones with the orangutans didn’t come out very well because of the glass but I might stick them on.
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More from the Zoo yesterday. The first pictures of the Orangutans ( my wife’s niece age 6) ah look at them playing they look like they are having fun 🫣
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Had a cracking ride this morning. Had to drop off a birthday card to my sister in law in Hythe, carried on the coast road through Sandgate on to Folkestone, then back through Sandgate, Hythe, stopping for petrol and a bottle of water while filling up I could here the gunfire from the MOD at Hythe marshes. Then on to Dymchurch through Romney marsh, then NewRomney on to Old Romney where I stopped for a look round at the 12TH Century church ST CLEMENTS
Then on to Appledore through to Rye, then on to the A2070 to Brenzett where I turned off to go through Ham street to ST MARYS church Orlestone.
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It was a gruelling 5 hours in the garden for me. Cutting the grass, pruning, trimming, strimming & tidying. I am absolutely shattered as it's been a bit warm in Northumberland today. I'm in the good books with the Mrs mind :thumb:
Also due to the sunny weather I've taken full advantage of my massive solar array and I've taken my car from 17% to 100% for free, my kind of motoring.
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2112,
I am curious, my gasgas ebike costs about 20p to recharge from 20% to full (though as recommended I only go to 100% if I am going to use it that day),it has a 630wh/36v battery.
When you are just using the mains and not the solar panels (which is the way forward :thumb:) how much would a recharge on the car cost, and do you happen to know how big the battery/s are?
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OK, so my car an MG 5 EV has a 54kWh battery with a useable capacity of 52kWh (2kWh is kept in reserve to ensure the battery stays 'live' and holds a serviceable charge level). My main Zappi charger can operate at a maximum of 7.4kW meaning a charge rate of around 7.4kW per hour (I say 'around' as the battery sometimes has to ease up on charge to regulate it's tempreture). So from 10% capacity to 90% capacity would take around 41.6kWh or approximately 6 hours. The last 15% of my battery takes a while to charge due to the chemistry (it's the older Lithium Ion type, newer Lithium Iron Phosphate or LiFePo4 cells charge a lot faster in the last few percent). It's not the size of the charger that makes it faster, the battery has to draw the electrical energy into the cells which is a chemical reaction.
Over the winter we charge overnight in the garage on a 'granny charger' rated at 2.2kW. This works well when you keep the battery above 35% empty as you end up with about 85%/90% charge in the morning after plugging it in overnight. Cost wise it's whatever this weeks electricity price is with a reduction between 00:30 and 04:30 (Octopus agile), currently 26.2p per kWh or 11.2p off peak. Based on 15 hours typical charge (providing around 33kWh) it would cost 4 x 11.2p (off peak) = 44.8p + 11 x 26.2p (peak rate) = £2.88.2 or a total of £3,33.00. This would get me around 120 miles (excluding what was already in the battery). Cheap motoring.
For added difficuly & complexity we also have 2 x Tesla Powerwalls (a total of 27kWh) to run the house on surplus solar power and a 14kW air source heat pump to drain them very quickly !
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Ta for that, very comprehensive. :thumb:
That last 10/15 % of the charge, my little battery does similar to that.Something to do with equalizing the cells in the battery. :shrug: All new to me.
Apparently it should be done every now and again on those multicell types (apologies if I have the terminology wrong ).At least on ebikes failure to do it is the number one reason for battery failure. One cell goes down and the battery needs repairs ( which surprisingly can be done) ...I hope not to go there.
I tend to think of it as maybe changing the oil on a normal engine.It is a different sort of maintenance that's all, something I am having to learn about.
We are at the planning stage of building a fully electric boat for next year, so very interesting, thanks again.
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Most welcome & good luck with the boat project which sounds very interesting.
The larger the battery the more complex the BMS (battery management system) tends to be. Inevitably & to keep costs down, smaller batteries are often left to their own devices and are capable of bieng overcharged and consequently exploding. Some of the BMS on grid scale batteries can isolate individual cells, monitoring them 50 times a second for tempreture, state of charge & dialectric stability. Impressive stuff and one of the many reasons why they cost so much! For reference a 50MW/100MWh (a 2 hour operating sytem) BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) is about £22,000,000.00 to build.... There is a 400MW/2,400MWh BESS getting built at Chickerell in Dorset by Statera which will cost around £300,000,000.00 !!!
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Damn 2112 , that is serious money.
We will NOT be spending that :grin:
We have built electric before, but only lead acid, not ideal and bloody hard to package in a boat due to the weight/size.
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It might be worth considering buying a complete EV. They are dropping in price and that way you get the motor, drivetrain, battery & BMS and all the wiring. It all works together and just needs to be 'boatified'. An accident damaged one could be an option too. Just a thought and you'd have what was left to sell off to reduce costs further.
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That is not a bad call actually.And what with even a small marine deisel (not counting drives/props/custom fuel tanks) being £15,000 in a river boat, going up to the £30,000 PLUS each for the twin engines in the offshore models starts to make sense :grin: (our offshore with twin Volvo/pentas is quite fuel efficient ONLY..... using a gallon a mile at 30 knots :dl_hyperhysteria:)
A lot of smaller boat engines are " marineised " car/lorry engines.I remember our chief engineer proudly showing us the engine in his BMW 2.0l diesel car was basicaly the same as the new one we fitted in a river boat a few years ago. Certification/ insurance is a problem though with a prototype approach.Plus our customers are ,shall we say, mostly... " of an age " and may not go for something unproven. :icon_wink:
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I guess the installation is unproven but the technology is. Charging may be an issue depending on the type of connectors available at moorings ?
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The devil is indeed in the details.
Losing power and drifting into the regular shipping lane while crossing the North Sea is NO fun....Been there :icon_no:
Thankfully we were sailing then ,when I worked for a Yacht builder and so we were able to manage till we got power back.
Those ferries are huge and very fast when seen from even an 80 foot boat, let alone our little 40 footers. :grin:
Ho Hum
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Today was a bit full-on at work interviewing in-person 5 x yoofs for our Electrical Engineering apprentice positions. We had 4 really good candidates (one exceptional) and one who really didn't come across very well (despite doing really well in a video interview). It was a difficult descision but the interviewers (myself, our Electrical Engineer & Principle Electrical Engineer) all unanimously agreed on two candidates and one standby candidate, in case one of them backs out. Very impressed with the quality, presentation & reasearch they had all put into the industry and our company. You see a lot of negative press out there regarding the youth of today and how they are spoiled, lazy & unambitious. Trust me, there is some cracking young talent out there hungry to work in the renewable energy industry.
P.S. I just realised it was 43 years ago on Monday that I started my apprenticeship with the N.E.E.B. (now Northern Powergrid). It seems like a lifetime ago and just like yesterday simultaneously.
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nothing travels faster than the speed of time
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Been to work this morning changing a load of radiator valves only to be disturbed by the gardener. She’d strimmed though the oil supply line right by the tank with one of the metal brush cutting blades.
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Been to London….. on the train.😁
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Today I: waved cheerio to The Mokey (our daughter) who stayed with us over the weekend. Took Bullseye out for a post-service spin and had a very enjoyable two hours around Hertfordshire/Bucks/Oxon. Brought my onions into the shed to dry out a bit more before storing in nets - good crop this year. Dug up half my main crop spuds - not as good as I'd hoped, size wise, considering how much rain we had during the growing season. Picked another large batch of runner beans, which Lady Poppy has blanched ready for the freezer once they have cooled. I also raised the dozen pumpkins that are growing like mad off the ground with handfuls of straw to help the ripen evenly.
Now relaxing with a whisky on the patio. Been a nice day.
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Trev, our potato crop has been bloody awful this year.
We lost our 1st lot of runner beans to slugs (so many this year with it so wet) the second lot are coming on OK but nowhere near ready. (if they're young & smallish we don't blanch our runner beans, just cut 'em up & chuck 'em in the freezer. :)
We had a decent crop of broad beans. we don't blanch those either. :shrug:
Onions, the same as you, not too bad.
The pumpkins haven't got fruit on them yet, we were quite late deciding to put some in. We live in hope the grandkids will have something to carve in a couple of months? :shrug:
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Spent 7 hours cutting up fire wood for the wood burner for the winter.
We had 2 saws going myself on the table saw and the wife using the chop saw.
And Yesterday we went to the harbour arm in Folkestone to play adventure golf. While we were parking. there were these cars they were taking part in what seemed to be the called Pothole Rodeo.
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Don't start talking about slugs Mick... Wretched things took out my entire crop of carrots, beetroot, lettuce and parsnips this year. Damn things!
What on earth is The Pothole Rodeo?
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Sir Trev
I had to Google it lol to find out have a look my friend 👍
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Yesterday, it was a bit full on hence why it's taken until today to typre this bit. It started at work following up from a site visit in the Sheffield area on Wednesday to survey a possible 50MW/200MWh battery site. A veritable frenzy of paperwork, contracts, NDA's to sort out, legals to chase up etc. That brought lunchtime, crikey where did that morning go? Then for the two lucky Electrical Apprentices we had chosen I sent out their individual offer packs, again after legals, HR etc have had a pick through them for irrors and speeling mistaks. Thankfully, both replied and said 'yes', so I reckon both will be having a pretty good bank holiday weekend. After that I had an hour of badminton with my work colleagues and then headed straight over to Morpeth leisure centre for another two hours of competitive badminton there. I could hardly get out of bed today...
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2112, you do know there's always tomorrow, don't you?
Pffffffftttttt, kids today.
Regarding vegetables boys.
For potatoes try Nicola, they're an early but you can leave them in through the summer, blight and pest resistant and they've given a great crop, still are.
For lettuce try CanCan, again very good with the pests and despite having a slug problem for the first time in a dozen years they've stood up well. It's a great crispy and tasty lettuce.
Upt.
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CanCan noted for a lettuce trial here at Trev Towers next year. Might just dig up the last of my Desiree crop this evening seeing as we had a damp start to the day which will have softened the soil a bit.
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Today saw a run up to Ian Bell's with my mate on his BMW K1200GT for it's MOT. It's done exactly 4 miles since it's last MOT. My mate asked 'has it got any advisories'? The reply was 'f'***ing ride it more'! Fair enough I guess and it encouraged him to have a run up to Rothbury with me on the Batmobile. Pics of both bikes below -
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It's now a little over a year since I built this "scaffold board" decking in my garden so today I treated it to some love.
A full wash and blow dry followed by an all over P80 grit rub down, another sweep and finally a full weather treatment decking protection.
Job done for another year ... :icon_wink:
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Stain your what???
https://youtu.be/On6WF-_OjHI?si=POnatugfG3jcg1UO
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kwackboy. That's looking great but too nice to walk on! :thumb:
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here's a useful add from our antipodean cousins across the ditch in Kiwiland
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6c4Nupnup0
DIY tips from perfeshnulls are always handy!
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Today it's bags packed and off to Morpeth railway station for a long weekend in Glasgow. We have a nice hotel booked and some great dinner reservations for all three nights, nice :thumb:
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We had a cracking weekend in Glasgow and we even had good weather too, only catching afew spots on Sunday night & monday morning on the way to the station. Nice enough hotel (Sandman Signature) and a very nice, spacious room. We had some cracking food & drink and I can heartily recommend the Chakoo Bombay Cafe on St Vincent Street and Roya on Elmbank Street. The 'spoons at Sauchiehall Street (The Henglers Circus) was very nice and we had our brekkie there every day as our hotel brekkie was a rather p155 taking £18.95... We even got to the transport museum which is well worth a visit. Belting weekend :thumb:
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Glad you had a good time. I too have used the Chakoo Bombay Cafe on St Vincent Street. The pilot on the plane from Plymouth (when they had an airport) to Glasgow recommended it. They were just closing when we arrived but there was still plenty of food and we were invited in. They then made fresh food and brought it to the table. First class treatment and first class food. Yummy. :thumb:
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Rode the bike to work again today ( actually rode it 4 out of 5 days this week)
After work called in to see my friend who has just finished building this rather lovely AC cobra kit car.
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OHH NICE,
A neighbour two doors down had a mate with a Shelby Cobra.
When he started it up my windows would vibrate and he would be doing 60 odd by the time he went past mine :grin:.
Proper noise.
A few years ago I made some Corvette bodies(they are fiberglass) for Corvette Kingdom here in Norfolk, interesting work.
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That's a nice bit of kit mind. Looks incredibly well put together, unlike the shonky ones with 1600cc Capri engines...
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A quick run out to Darley Moor race circuit near Ashbourne for a late breakfast at the Chequered Flag cafe. Once again, Pete's Honda CB900 cafe racer was the star attraction. (Thinking about getting some signed photos made up for the next trip).
No motorbike racing this week. Club racing championship next weekend. Spectator tickets remarkably cheap so may go if weather still OK.
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Today saw me install a few Blink security cameras about the place along with a video doorbell. We've never been tageted but our neighbour was a few years ago, so with the darker nights on their way a bit of an additional detterent was required. Very easy to install & set up and with an alledged 2 year battery life it will be no drama to keep on top of them. I've realised I have a few 'blind spots' so I've ordered another two cameras, one of which will go in the garage. It can be subscription free, but at only £80 a year for up to 10 cameras it seems a no-brainer to store my data in the cloud. Happy thus far and it's a bit more peace of mind. It should also let us see what wildlife is kicking about in the garden too.
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We've got blink cameras and a doorbell, they're very good.
We don't pay any subscription because all recorded footage is uploaded to our phones via the app for which, we can keep or delete when needed.
The batteries have to be AA Lithium an thier life span depends on how active the camera is, the clip length and camera sensitivity.
Our main front door camera and doorbell camera which are the most active often last over a year.
We have 3 battery, a door bell and two hard wired cameras and over all, for the last 3 years, we are very pleased.
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Took my other Suzuki...The Mighty Alto...for its annual service and MOT.
Passed straight through ( 3 in a row now :lala:).......but then it had only done 1651 miles since the last MOT.
Ho Hum
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I rushed to Lidl on the 12th of this month to buy an air fryer that was on offer at £14.99. It's a 4L single draw but perfect for one. I used it this morning for the first time to cook some chicken breasts and it was really good and quick.
Negative thing though, it had a metal plate that sits at the bottom and is removable for washing. I washed it and the draw pan in a sink full of soapy water, pulled the plug and rinsed then noticed that two of the little rubber bits on the edge of the bottom tray had come off and only one was in the sink? So, back to Lidl today to complain. Wish me luck :thumb:
The instructions state Never use metal objects in the pan (obviously) as it would scratch the none stick coating but without the rubber bits it will get scratched.
I would recommend an air fryer to anybody though, they are as significant as the microwave was years ago and air fryers have been around for many years in big commercial kitchens and well tested but only just come to the many. :thumb:
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Kwackboy
Message for kwackboy. I have noticed too many times that young lads on 125 bikes neglect their chain and probably tyre pressures.
My thought is if your garage advertised free chain adjustment and lube plus tyres pumped to correct pressure for 125 bikes only, you may put yourself on the map for many potential customers when they need work done, give each of them a card for their wallet or sticker for their bike with your number on it and your made..... Maybe?
It may be popular but you could specify a day and time of the week and maybe make the offer for a limited time say a week or month.
Just an idea and I don't mean to intrude but it is an idea that I had to share and it would make a lot of young lads safer too. :thumb:
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That's a great idea which is why we do this already.
Not many youngsters in London with geared bikes, it's mainly scooters now but the principle is the same.
Infact anybody who pulls up needing a tyre pressure check and a chain adjustment gets a quick free 5 mins of our time, customers appreciate it .. :thumb:
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Picked up some merino leggings in Aldi for a discounted £4.99 :happydance:
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Thank you for that, I'm going to Lidl to get some today, mine have already worn out and I need new. :thumb:
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Reference an earlier post about my new air fryer. If you have bought one take care of the Trivet, that's what they call the metal tray at the bottom of the pan. The little silicone feet come off in the wash and will disappear down the plug hole, two of mine did. I have contacted Daewoo, the manufacturer and requested new ones as the Lidl store manager told me politely to deal with it myself and he couldn't help. :thumb:
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Moaned about cyclists and people on the phone while driving, Also collected my Enfield's front wheel from the bike shop. I find that old age has reduced my strength such that I can't mount a tyre the old fashioned way any more. :old: £39 including a new innertube. Back wheel next.
Also paid a visit to my mum who is 101 but has now lost her mobility. My sister said she takes no notice of the female social and health workers who visit, but perks up and gets all smiley when a young male doctor shows up. mums eh! what can you do?
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Nice one Mrs Brockett senior :clap: :clap:
I discovered one of the Strom's spotlights has failed so I'll need to do a bit of :fix:
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Paid my respects to the first fatalities of Operation Market Garden.
Although they died when their glider crashed near Paulton, Somerset. They are buried in the cemetery at Weston-super-Mare.
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A couple more photographs
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Today was the day my HD went in to the main dealers. to have the warranty work done to fix the discharge problem. Which involved replacing both the LH and the RH handle bar controls.
And this is a known problem with the Nightster model.
While they were doing the work, myself and the wife went upstairs to the clothing department where some very nice HD Attire was purchased.
So for the first time for 2 months I haven’t put the HD on trickle charge. ( let’s see if this fixes the problem ??)
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:eusa-doh:
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I had a ride on a 1950's Norman 250cc sportster today, which was manufactured in Ashford. My first time on an old British bike and great fun.
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Found my V-Strom on Google Maps Street View parked up in Liverpool. Photo taken 2yrs ago. Must have been one of the first trips I'd made on the bike post pandemic too.
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That's a find :thumb:.......what does "solo " refer to?
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A parking bay for solo motorcycles only. A term that goes back to when there were many more sidecars about which should be parked in a car bay.
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Or, the bay next to it is marked KURYAKIN and it's U.N.C.L.E. HQ
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Uk_Vstrom650,
After reading Micks post............Is there anything you need to tell us...or is it best we don't know :grin:
Ho Hum
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lol
It says solo motorcycles
It was interesting to see the pictures of the bay on Google going back through the years. It used to have loads of spaces and was full of loads of bikes starting back in 2014 and again in 2016. It then starts going down hill in 2020, 2022 and today in 2024 the space is mainly full of industrial bins for the local business and full of rubbish too.
I did follow a Google camera van through Sheffield last year but not seen the bike since.
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Since riding home Saturday from the HD dealership after having the warranty work done. to hopefully fix the discharge problem.
I can confirm I did not attach the trickle charger, and the weather has not been motorcycling weather so have been taking the car to work.
The bike has not been running since Saturday so I tried to start it tonight and I am pleased to say it started straight away 😃 which is encouraging 🫣
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Today saw me hand in my official letter of retirement. I'm on a 3 month notice period and with Christmas and the like I've chosen January the 8th as my last day at work. Feels good, but tempered with a little sadness as things are going well. However, you need to know when to quit and while you're ahead is always a good time.
As a 'farewell to work' treat we've got a month in New Zealand booked :lala:
Also my last day at work for two and a half weeks as it's off to the Ijmuden ferry on Sunday and a little trip to Lake Garda, via the Grossglockner pass.
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Congrats on the upcoming retirement.
I realise you are a pro, but how's the " time bombs" coming...Kippers under the floorboards of your old place is the minimum come New Years :grin:
Ho Hum
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My mate went on two weeks leave from the Fire Brigade to discover someone had left a deceased Pheasant in his locker. The smell and the maggot infestation were horrific. It was all part of the 'banter' and revenge was sweet when he 'planted' water cress in the offenders car while he was on holiday. He returned to a flourishing salad as an interior...
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Today saw me hand in my official letter of retirement. I'm on a 3 month notice period and with Christmas and the like I've chosen January the 8th as my last day at work.
From January 9th you'll find out what hard work is!! :grin: lol
Good luck & enjoy. :thumb:
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Cheers Mick, most appreciated :thumb:
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I got my last minuet check list from DFDS today - my next European adventure is getting close :dance:
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Today, despite being a bit too wet, I managed to get the grass cut. It's certainly slowing down, but there's at least one more cut left yet I suspect. I think I got the last cut finished off in November last year?
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I dropped the wife at the train station this morning, she was going to London with the girls.
Which left me free to go for a ride 😁 So I headed to Newmarket Harley Davidson. Taking a mixture of A & B roads. Took a few pictures while riding firstly the plaque in Dicks wood (Quendon near Stansted ) then this one for Joe rocket ( he used to live here ) and this lovely windmill at Wicken.
Arrived at Newmarket Harley Davidson it is a great dealership lots of people there today being a nice sunny day helped, had a good look around and spoke to loads of people sat on one of the customers bike a 114 Breakout felt really comfortable ( nice and low like mine ) I was there for a couple of hours taking advantage of the free coffee machine.
I then carried on riding around the fens ending up in Chatteris, I thought I’d start heading back towards home. It was a brilliant days riding I got home at 17.45 after covering 176 miles.
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More pictures
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Thanks for the photo Asmith61. Funnily enough I was there at the beginning of September, some friends lent us their empty house for a few days whilst we visited friends and beered down at the Crown and Thistle. Nice Thai food too. I guess you've been here too for HD's and other great works of Art....
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Hi Joe Rocket yes I rode to Krazy Horse after work in early may.
I got there 10 mins before they closed had a quick walk around and a quick chat, I was told we have a BBQ the last Thursday of the month in the summer with a live band and we get up to 2000 people sometimes 😱
I was surprised yesterday riding through Great chesterfield how many new houses they have already built and are building the other side of the rode, it has really changed the outlook.
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Yes, awful! They reckon the gap between Great and Little Chesterford will get filled up. There's also a big development at Hinxton just across the way from Stump Cross, a Campus for the Genome Labs. Plus another vast housing development proposed on the West side of Great Chesterford on the other side of the Walden Road. To think I brought my family up there in a quiet little country village over thirty years ago........... :shock:
I remeber when no-one wanted to live alongside a Railway Line (Liverpool Street line at Chesterford, as you know). Now it's trendy and extremely expensive.
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Sorry Joe rocket I just saw I spelt Great chesterford wrong 🫣
There was something on at Audley End yesterday when I passed by all the grass at the front was full of cars. The little lay by just out of your old village is still handy for a wee break 🤣🤣
I know they are building everywhere here in the UK 😠
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Oil checked, tyres checked, full of fuel, luggage packed, Passport & other paperwork in order - ready for todays crossing from North Shields to Ijmuden! Then it's off to Weibersbrunn (past Frankfiurt), Innsbruck and then Lake Garda for a weeks wine tasting at the delightful Hotel Bellevue (https://www.hotelbellevuegardone.com/en/).
On the way back it's Memmengen & Leverkusen then back on the ferry. It looks like my Oxford laminated textiles whill be tested! Catch up with you all when I get back :thumb:
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Safe travels and fingers crossed on the weather :auto-dirtbike:
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Yes safe travels and enjoy the Roads and the wine 👍
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Enjoy, be safe and I hope the weather stays nice for you, your Oxford laminated textiles should keep you dry though. I was looking at them a couple of days ago. They look like high quality but should be for the price. :roll: :thumb:
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Back from Italy safe & sound. I covered some 1,650 miles and averaged 50.1mpg which is pretty good as the tigger was well loaded. On my return I promptly part exchanged it for a Honda 750 Transalp! Some pics of the trip below -
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The Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry seems much improved 2112.
We were very impressed with the staff, food and cabin. The deck staff were quick to deliver us straps for the bike too.
The hot coffee and warm pastries were in the cabin waiting for us at both ends.
Like I say impressive.
Upt.
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Yes, both ships seem to have been refurbished since my last crossing.
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Went for a quick ride today only to Chelmsford. to see my brother in his Dementia home. While there I was talking to my sister in law about getting power of Attorney, as it’s been over 2 years now that he has been in the home and the financial side of things are getting dire for her now.
We understand that his signature is needed on all correspondence but that is not possible at all !!
Sadly he know longer knows who we are ☹️
On a brighter note the HD has been left 3 weeks and it started straight away, so it looks like the discharge problem has been solved.
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The like is for the battery. I am sorry to read that your brother is suffering. I assume you have seen a solicitor regarding power of attorney.
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Brockett thank you 👍
And to be honest I thought she had all this in place already !!
my brother and I are the trustees of my late father’s will. And obviously because of his illness he can no longer take the roll.
My father passed away in 2006 and everything was sorted, but it turns out he still had a few shares left over, and there was a very small amount cheque arrived, as it was in both our names it cannot be cashed.
I rang and explained the situation and was told we cannot do anything without your brothers signature. I explained this would not be possible at all.
So I was told that you need ask your sister in law if she has got power of attorney. Hence the conversation!!
I will have to speak to her and arrange to go and see a solicitor.
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Power of Attorney are a must IMHO. I wouldn't have thought that until 3 years ago when I did them for my parents.
Not long after I did so my dad became quite ill & was unable to make his own decisions, regarding his finances or health. My dad died within 18 months & it was quite an easy thing to sort his, & mums, finances.
Mum has become housebound & not able to look after herself for a couple of years now & 2 of my sisters take it in turns to give her 24 hour care.
The Power of Attorney had been registered with the doctors & it allows my sisters to make any decisions they see fit regarding her health & also her finances.
All 5 of us are registered but can make decisions individually if required.
Last year Deb & myself did our own.
You can do them yourself, it's just a matter of being careful when filling the forms in & getting the signatures. (It's a legal document, so has to be correct!)
I would advise anyone to make one before you need it. If you get to the stage of needing it, it'll be too late!
In your case Albie I think it will be necessary to see a solicitor to make sure it's done correctly. :thumb:
Hopefully you will be able to sort it all without too much problem. :thumb:
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Thank you Mick
That is great advice. As already said I will speak to my sister in law regarding everything, I feel she has buried her head in the sand !! All this with my brother happened very quickly and came as a shock to us all.
It really all started with him forgetting a lot of things and asking the same thing over and over again etc.
he was ( like me) a chronic Diabetic and had knocked his toe some how and didn’t say anything, his wife noticed blood in his sock while doing the washing so sent him to the doctors, where they sent him to the hospital he had gangrene in the toe and spoke to his wife about having to amputate his Toe. His wife said I rather you didn’t and his reaction was if you want to save your husband we have to do this. Which his wife agreed to but by the time they came to do the operation the gangrene had spread up his leg and they had to Amputate just below the knee.
Then the dementia really set in. Since the day he went to the hospital to check his toe he has never returned home.
So his life and that of his family changed dramatically.
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Sorry to hear that Asmith61 - sounds awful. Hope you get Power of Attorney sorted and best wishes to you and your family.
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UK _Vstrom650 thank you 🙏🏻
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Might not help you, but this week's moneysavingexpert's email had a link to a podcast Martin Lewis did on this topic. I haven't listened, so not sure if it covers your situation but might be worth a listen?
https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/site/listen-to--the-martin-lewis-podcast-/?utm_source=MSE_Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=15-Oct-24-40d00bca27d461d8078-670eb7f4f9291518293c4ae25cb61091&source=CRM-MSETIP-40d00bca27d461d8078&utm_campaign=nt-oneliners-one&utm_content=19
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Uk_Vstrom650
Thank you for this.
I have watched it very informative and I think it will help a lot.
I have forwarded it to my sister in law 👍👍
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Today, after picking up the Transalp, I've been having my pre-retirement pension review. My head is spinning with crystalised assets, non-crystalised assets, tax free sums, annuities etc. The bottom line is I can retire as planned on January the 8th next year. Due to the clever use of various pension pots I can avoid paying any tax (legally) which makes a big difference. Very happy with the outcome :thumb:
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Well done.
Like many, I hope to retire one day, should I live that long. My sense of wealth comes from those around me.
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I can heartily recommend the use of an INDEPENDENT financial advisor. The diferrence between a well managed, active pension and a 'bank offering' is vast. Make your money work hard for you, not the other way around :thumb:
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I can only agree with the above. I went through an experienced financial company for advice as well as a state pension 'Interview' on how to use my pension pot and what came into my retirement income in various stages afterwards. Bear in mind though that any new investments or placements proposed by said 'advisor' will include his share. I'm not saying don't open up future avenues for yourself, just that advice will cost money.
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Today, I got a rather frantic telephone call from my mate's missus saying the elctricity was off at the house and kept tripping. Predictably, he's on his way to Canada for his brothers 60th birthday bash, so I'm on 'call' for electrical woes. It didn't take me too long to identify & isolate the issue, the circuit to the shed at the bottom of the garden is the culprit, probably due to the torrential rain we've had here over night. A permanent repair will need further investigations and good weather. Nothing spoiling in the shed so I've just left it off for now. A quick win and back to watch more WSB on the telly.
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Today I have mostly been sitting in a comfy chair watching the relentless rain come down. Did manage to get outside in a couple of the brief gaps to lift a few leeks from the veg patch, which Lady Poppy is currently prepping for the freezer. Was hoping to get out for a ride to unwind after a frantic few days travelling with work but the rain and a (rather pathetic) sniffle means that option is a no-go.
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More grandkids football for us this morning. Having three grandkids means we have to alternate our Saturdays & Sundays each week to go & watch them play. This morning it was the granddaughter in the under 9's. The team played well & won 4 - 0.
This afternoon it was the son (granddaughters dad) playing in the over 40's vets. Usually a good & steady player but today he let himself down, his team down & his parents down! lol
He plays centre half & about 20 minutes into the game got caught by a through ball & was about 2 seconds slow in the tackle causing him to receive only his 2nd yellow in 30 + years playing.
10 minutes later his attempt to pass back to his keeper was light & their forward ran onto it & scored.
5 minutes after that a high ball is crossed into the box & it's his ball, so the shout goes up "Barnsies", gets his head to it well & it's a cracker ... into his own goal!!
He did do better in the second half but the damage was done. They lost 8 - 2.
Deb was straight onto WhatsApp to tell the grandson about his dad. The grandson got man of the match in his game yesterday. :haha:
The 2nd grandson lost both his matches, yesterday & today but played well. We will see him play next week.
We saw very little of the forecasted rain though & it's been a very enjoyable weekend. :thumb:
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Love hearing reports from the world of grass roots football. Big respect to the refs and the army of volunteers who keep youth football going.
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Quite right Stromgeeza. Without those that, organise the leagues, manage, train the teams, do the books, ref, run the line, etc, etc. there would be no football for the kids, or any grassroots teams.
This is the same for all sports for kids I presume. One of the grandsons plays cricket & basketball & the organisation for those is the same, as is the gymnastics for the granddaughter.
Hats off to those who do volunteer for all grassroots sports. :clap: :clap: :clap:
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While praising the volunteers who make youth sports happen, a big shout out also to those who volunteer at Parkrun, so juniors and not-so-juniors can walk, jog or run their 5k each Saturday. :thumb:
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Took this for a test ride, quite different :thumb:
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Today saw a trip to the doctors for my Covid and Flu jabs. One in each arm, I'm now ready for winter, apparently.
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Our turn tomorrow, can't wait :whistle:
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Today I booked my flights and bus transfer to Spain for Christmas with friends. I then spoke to my Sister and arranged a week visiting her and my Brother early next month. Then I washed and ACF50'd my bike. It's 5pm now but I'm going to take it for a ride and get it dirty again :roll:. It's that time of the year when the roads are so dirty.
I feel good and the next couple of months are something to look forward to. :lala: :thumb:
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Sounds like you've got yourself a plan :thumb:
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Got up too bloody early on a Saturday to go to museum live at the National Motorcycle Museum, looking forward to hearing that Nemesis fire up though.
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A few shots and clips from NMM today.
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.
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Flying Millyard fire up.
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Norton Nemesis fire up.
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Honda RC174 running.
This was by far the loudest, and probably most valuable, bike of the day.
10 in the world and the owner said it needs a new crank every 400 miles at a cost of £30k. His pockets were deeper (and probably emptier) than mine.
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Wow Rixington43 sounds like a fantastic day a beautiful array of bikes👍
It has been a lot of years since I have been NMM (a long time before the terrible fire) I was lucky enough to be invited to the TT riders dinner a few years running, and was also allowed to wander around the museum.
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Today I have been wearing my new lid around the house while pretending to work from home. Much to Lady Poppy's amusement. Happy to report it fits great but my first ride out with it will have to wait until the weekend. At least I will now look like a proper ADV Dad with a peaked helmet...
If any of you are in the market for a Schuberth E2 in Defender White they are currently 35% off at Sportsbikeshop.
https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_prod/743483
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Not today, yesterday, nipped into hospital for a full knee replacement :old:
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Good luck with the recovery :thumb:
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My dad had his done a couple of months ago, best of luck with the rehab and I hope your freezer is well stocked with frozen peas ;)
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Good luck FR on your recovery :thumb: It's all about the physio now, the more effort you put in the quicker & easier the recovery will be. I pushed the wife hard when she had her knee done and it paid dividends as it's been trouble free and exceeded the hospitals expectations.
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Good luck Andy & as has already been said, keep up with the physio! :thumb:
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Here's wishing you have a swift and complete recovery and you that progress from this :icon_crutch: to this :dance: and this :auto-dirtbike: soon.
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Will follow your progress FR, as I had a full replacement back in July
Good luck with your recovery
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As others have said here’s hoping for a swift & complete recovery FR
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Recover in plenty of time for the customary West Wales camping weekender knees up!
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Thanks for the good wishes folks :thumb:
I'm glad it's finally done. I may need some help with creating a back story for the scar. I already use my fictional time spent in the underwater knife fighting platoon to explain other scars. I am thinking along the lines of a freak shark attack on the M4.
Suggestions appreciated.
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An interesting Christmas gift for someone, Andy?
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:shock:
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Good luck with your recovery and keep us updated with how it goes. 😊
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Ouch - sounds horrid. Hope you're back up an running (sorry) quickly.
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Maybe if anyone clocks the scar and asks,
Use that 1000 yard stare over their shoulder and say "sorry, can't talk about that one" ... then walk away muttering about Tibetan Monks. :grin:
Or ,
It's alright ,the ostrich wasn't hurt.
Or ,
" ask Joe " with a pointed look at Joe ( insert name of bloke standing next to you)......" he still owes me" .
Or ,
You came across a suicide pact involving super glue / cheese wire / tall buildings....mostly worked out OK in the end.
That last one will need some work. :grin:
Ho Hum
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Today is Remembrance Sunday so I attended the local Remembrance Day Parade. A great turn out as usual & lovely to see lots of younger ones out showing respect to the fallen.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.
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Today I caught this little 'intruder' on one of my Blink cameras -
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Today saw the last grass cut of the year :dance:
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You say that..I am still seeing midges :crazy:
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Not so much today, but over the last few weeks.
Serviced my car - Oil, oil & air filter.
I think the Renault mechanic was taking the pi$$ when he fitted the oil filter- OK they did advise me that he the front disk and drop links would fail the MOT, and I said I'll sort the issues ad bring it back for MOT - which was a lie as it went to my local MOT station after I'd done the work.
I just needed the stamp in the book for the PCP (which we have since paid off) - I say this as the oil filter would not come of with both hands around it - my chain type grips didn't have enough space to work so I had to get the self adjusting tool from Halfords - £15 - and had to take the scooter as I'd drained the oil and used an engine flush.
I had to use the 3ft breaker bar and and quite a bit of force to remove the bloody filter. In fact I split the filter in places - I'm surprised the prick at Renault didn't use lock tight on it! :violence-smack:
Then I've had a tow bar fitted to my Sandero and bought myself an Erde trailer - 2nd hand, but in OK nick, but the tyres were perished. Cheaper to buy a new pair of complete wheels than to change the tyres on the slightly rusty rims. :shrug:
I've also changed the wheel bearings while I was there - quite a battle as one had rusted to the spindle.
I've also been busy fixing my in-laws car- they came round for food last week and conveniently broke down outside when they went to leave.
The aux belt had come off - no water pump, power steering, air on or alternator - messing around with the lights on for 10 mins before they came back in had also drained the battery to the point of a no start. lol
Next day in the light of day could see there were no issues with the belt, or the rollers, or tensioner. :shrug:
Quite a bit had to come off to allow access, but I got a spanner on the tensioner and got the belt back on, charged the battery in the house on my big charger and she started fine later on. No issues since with the belt - strange how it just came off :shrug:
Four days later I get a call from them saying there is a warning light on the dash- and they’ve been driving it like that for 2 days, but the MOT is booked for the following day :violence-smack:
Turns out it was just the reversing bulb has blown... on closer inspection I can se why - there is a small pool of water in the rear light cluster, just over the level of the reversing bulb... inside is all rusted - bit of ACF50 and a new bulb and all is well again. :fix:
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Following my knee replacement, I am on a cocktail of pain meds, however, I am finding the self administered, herbal pain management solution, quite effective.
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I never had you pegged as a stoner, but doctor’s orders...
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Definitely not a Stoner. There have been a couple of times throughout my life where this stuff is useful. This is definitely one of them.
Edibles are soooo convenient
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A work colleague had a knee replacement. I visited him in hospital. When you hear the words Knee replacement it doesn't always sink in exactly what that means and how it is done. He was only too eager to show us that he had staples down his leg from mid thigh to below the knee. Made me feel quite feint. Six months later he had his prostate removed but I didn't visit.
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I've watched a knee replacement on tv. Real operating theatre, not dramatised. The very industrial drilling, hammering and chiselling made me feel queasy. Not surprising there's a lot of pain and discomfort, if you'd had similar in a bike smash it'd be classed as major trauma. Good luck with the recovery, Andy.
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My Mrs has a titanium knee joint which (apparently) could be changed like a track rod end if required. Nice to know, but I'd probably let a surgeon do it...
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It was the swelling and fluid retention that my Dad suffered with more than anything. Hopefully you've already been told this by the NHS but try and sit/sleep with your foot above your arse so fluid can drain from below the knee. My Dad was great the day or two after his op but swelling in his calf got so bad they rushed him in thinking it was DVT, turned out he'd been over using a cold compression cuff whilst sat normally and it had hindered fluid drainage.
Best of luck with it, he's already far better than before the op and he's 79.
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Plenty of time to rewatch meatball surgery series M*A*S*H again. Hope the recovery is speedy.
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The very industrial drilling, hammering and chiselling made me feel queasy.
What I wasn't prepared for, was being awake and witnessing that! It was very surreal.
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I'd have wanted good headphones and a blindfold.
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First ride since my knee replacement back in July 😁
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54142005659_78b500dfb1_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2qukW1c)First ride for 4 months (https://flic.kr/p/2qukW1c) by tonkie93 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tonkie93/), on Flickr
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When I had my hernia repaired,some years ago now,I watched the surgeon do it,there was a theatre light above the operating table covered in mirrors.The surgeon was only interested in talking about his upcoming holiday in America,he never stopped asking questions about it after I told him I had spent a few weeks there the previous year.
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When my mum was a midwife in England, she attended a caesarian birth where mum was wide awake, drinking tea and unanaesthetised. All pain control was done by hypnosis.
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It's quite amazing what can be achieved with hypnosis. My late father-in-law was initially a Dentist but (back in the 60's) some patients were allergic to all options for pain relief. He sought out some options and trained in Hypnotherapy and wrote several books & travelled the world giving lectures on the subject. He made a horrific video of him self-hypnotising and having a wisdon tooth removed - all without aneasthetic. He did a filling for me once and before I knew I was being hypnotised the tooth was filled! No pain relief, a lot of drilling and I was as right as rain. I use some of his minor techniques while at the dentist and can 'zone out' while any unpleasantry goes on. He had a lot of success helping people to give up smoking and permanently cured one of our friends of her phobia of flying.
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I've fitted the liner to my motorbike trousers, fished out the heated jacket wire from under the seat and added the heated insoles to my boots in readiness for a trip to Liverpool on Friday.
I also finally packed away the summer riding kit - don't think I'll be needing that for the rest of the year...
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Yes, it's thick with salt on the roads here now. Winter has officially started.
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Chanced upon Ski week at Lidl https://www.lidl.co.uk/c/ski-essentials/a10058278 (https://www.lidl.co.uk/c/ski-essentials/a10058278)
Came home with thermy leggings and the two tops plus socks.
Lots of stock at the shop at Wymondham, Norfolk.
There's a £5 off £25 voucher doing the rounds if you've got the lidl app (well there was for me).
I'm 6 foot and probably about 14 and a half-ish stone and the large sizes fit nicely.
Apologies for pic.
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Yep.. spotted my first gritter today...damn :smirk:
Funny... I don,t remember your ears being THAT big pstm :grin:
Ho Hum
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I popped into the hospital today, walking under my own steam, just thirteen days after a full knee replacement :dance:
Then was amazed to learn that there were thirty eight staples in the incision to come out :shy: I was a brave boy but there was no mention of a lollipop or a star sticker :shrug:
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Make sure they got them all.
I was stapled up after a hernia op, and they were removed at my GP clinic. A year later I was half way through an mri scan when the operator had to stop it due to metal in my abdomen.
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there was no mention of a lollipop or a star sticker :shrug:
NHS cuts? :)
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Should have called Jen, she likes taking staples out. :crazy:
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Today, it's bags packed and were heading off to Bellingham for a wine weekend with the wine club we go to. We have the whole hotel to our wine group and there will be several tastings throughout the weekend as well as wines paired with each course of our evening meals. It's a great weekend and is always massively oversubscribed. Looking at the weather we may get smnowed in and have to stay another night... Or even two :obscene-drinkingchug:
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This morning I fitted a Keis heated clothing harness to my forklift at work, body was lovely and warm with my Keis 501 under my hi viz jacket 👍
Just really feel the cold since being put on blood thinners !!!!
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Nice :thumb:
Warm is good .
Ho Hum
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Drove home from Castleford this morning (staff meeting there yesterday, with dinner after) and almost emptied the entire washer fluid reservoir over the four hour trip trying to keep my screen clear enough to see through. The roads were dry on the way up, which is lucky, as I would have probably run out on the way back today if it had been as bad both ways. Good job I filled the bottle up before I set off too.
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I was at the small, one man motorbike garage this morning to have a new front tyre fitted. The roads were very wet and dirty with fallen leaves covering the road.
Well we all know how slippery new tyres are even on a hot dry day but today is cold, blue sky and showers. My bottom was clenched all the way home. I was waiting for the rain to stop and the roads dry out so as I could run the tyre in but drinking a cup of tea while watching the latest shower tells me that it's not going to happen.
Anyway, maybe the situation is good because sadly I have house work that shouldn't be ignored so now I have the rest of the day to deal with it. What a boring afternoon it's going to be................. Bo*****s! I'm going for a ride, how long can 60/70 miles take even with slippy conditions. :auto-dirtbike: :thumb:
At least most of the grit has washed away after the deep snow we had day's ago. :)
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After a few complaints from the Mrs that the bathroom was 'too dark to see' I've changed the 5w warm white LED GU10 downlighter bulbs to 7w 'natural' white (about 4,000 kelvin) LED items. Definitely a bit brighter and the crisper white light makes things much clearer & better defined. The bulbs that came out had a 60 degree beam angle and the ones that have gone in have a 38 degree beam angle, still plenty of coverage (we have 8 in a box pattern of three rows, the 9th would have been where a cupboard is) however. Most importantly the bread knife is happy with them...
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Did someone say LED! ###
We've got a bathroom fitting with G9's in. Their lifespan is anything from 30 mins to 30 days. The bulbs are obviously enclosed because it is a bathroom specific fitting.
I've used Crompton bulbs before and I am now trying Sylvania, I'm limited in choice because of wattage and warmth.
The Sylvanias went in Sautuday, changed the first one Sunday has it had already started flickering. ###
Anybody remember the good old 40 or 60 wattage bayonet bulbs, opal or clear, life was so simple. Just like me.
Upt.
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We've got two G9 fitting lamps, both running fine with LEd's installed. It might be worth checking to see if you have a poor neutral connection, that will eat bulbs as they will run well over rated current. Just a thought.
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I'll check it out me duck, but I'm pretty sure they should be good. I spose I could check the junction box in the attic too.
Ta.
Upt.
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Yep, definitely something wrong with how your LEDs have been connected up. It's so rare I need to swap one of mine out I don't bother getting spares to keep 'in stock'. I wouldn't need one for what feels like years on end. Unlike ye olden days of halogen, filament, and tallow candles...
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When I used to work on fault restoration (for what is now Northern Powergrid) about 80% of the LV faults we used to get would be neutral related.
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Bloody Sparkies :lala:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/T6e0KvvFl4k?feature=share
Ho Hum
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I started life as an Electrician. I obviously missed out on the big money contracts :smirk:
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Not today but yesterday. I went out for a ride to run in my front tyre on wet, dirty leaf covered roads. :crazy:. I had just left the village and took a long right where in the summer I would often touch something down on the road but with a lot less lean my front started to slide.
The front slid out slowly and with a slow closing of the throttle and a bit of luck I managed to get upright again. The slide was probably over in 2 seconds but it seemed to last half an hour. So I proceeded at a more cautious speed and decided to use a little of the A30 on my way home as it was a dark night.
I did call into Exeter while out to have a quick walk around the Christmas market, wonderful. It filled my heart with joy until I half filled a small paper bag on a pick and mix and was charged £11 for sweets. The seller was a pretty young Asian girl who was probably earning a pittance and didn't deserve a rant so I paid.
The ride out of Exeter was horrendous as usual with bumper to bumper traffic and a lot of drivers making it impossible, dangerous or just not worth filtering though I did where I could. Anyway, I enjoyed my ride and probably did less than 100 miles, I didn't even use the heated grips as it was quite warm when on the move. :thumb:
My tyre hasn't lost it's chicken strips....... Yet.
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I filled three fuel cans with 16 litres of E5 and topped up all four bikes. I attached an optimate to each battery and put their covers back on them. I sat and looked at them for a while and wondered when we would go out again. If it's dry on Sunday morning and when I say dry I mean the roads are dry and not dripping with salty water. I dumped the unused fuel into the car and then released the caps on the plastic cans in the hope that the winter chills don't cause the cans to split as a it can (no pun intended) when the air in a sealed can contracts. On the bright side I filled two carrier bags with garage rubbish to take to the tip and kept alive the denial that what I really need is a skip.
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Not today but yesterday.
I picked up my biker mate Jim who is 82 and stills owns a Hayabusa ( but due to ill health he has not been able to ride it for 2 years).
We went to a small village close to Eastbourne in East Sussex to visit our other biker mate Dennis, who is also in poor health 🙁 he has had a triple bypass and also a stroke !!
It was hard to see my too mates looking so poorly and so old 🙁
But having said that we still had a good laugh about old times on and off of the bikes 🤣 Both of them also have early signs of Dementia 🙁 so some of the conversations were challenging 🤣
We went to the local pub for lunch.
we all had the same oven roasted seabass which came with roasted Mediterranean vegetables, hasselback potatoes, caper & lemon butter :crazy:
Not my normal grub !! But to be honest it was delicious 😋
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Looks nice :thumb:
It's hard to watch friends fading away, you get to the point you don't want to see them because everytime is so sad... But, they'll not be here forever, so hat's off to you for making an effort.
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Just finished clearing the garage to make room for the CBR.
Three full wheelie bins ( yes I have 3, they made a mistake and left too many when we moved to wheelie bins years ago and I never got round to telling them :whistle:)
Left the bench, moved some shelving and should be good now. An angle grinder with a cutting disc took care of the pile of old tyres , just a trip to the recycling tip to drop off the gallons of old oil now :GRR:
The main problem was actually the gasgas, it has some wide arsed handlebars and is chained to a security loop at the wall. I am thinking the CBR will go under the bars though :shrug:
Ho Hum
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Worse problems to have I guess :shrug:
I've installed our external Christmas lights to the specification & satisfaction of Mrs 2112 & changed a couple of dusk to dawn bulbs that were starting to flicker occaisionally. It's been about 4/5 years since I last changed them so I can't complain really. I've gone for a 'natural white' colour rather than warm white this time. I'll pop up a picture of the lights when it gets dark.
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This years Christmas lights, minimalist but it's enough. They'll be the same next year too if I manage to take them down without destroying them... Crisp new dusk to dawn bulbs in the picture too.
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Here is our Christmas light effort.
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Very festive, seasons greetineg :lala:
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Not quite a 'done' more of an 'about to' and that's go to the first Christmas party of the 2024 festive season. It's one of many, tonights being the work outing in Newcastle. This will be followed over the coming weeks with a Wine club party, Badminton club party, Gym group party and a ex-electricity company party. Not to mention Christmas day, crikey, it's a good job I've got some loose fitting trousers...
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I did an hour and a half round trip to the hospital yesterday for Physio. He had me walk around the room, measured the bend angle of my knee, said I was doing amazingly well and sent me on my way (no lollipop). All in all, a four minute session :GRR:
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Had a days holiday owing so took it today ( got to take all holiday before Christmas) so came down to our caravan in Kent, we went to Hastings parked in a disabled parking bay on the seafront. Went off to play crazy golf, went in to the amusements and had lovely fish & chips ( 2x fish & chips mushy peas a coke and coffee £40 :icon_exclaim: )
Got back to the car and I had a parking ticket I had forgotten to put my disabled badge up :dl_smiley_banghead: :dl_smiley_banghead:
So £70 parking fine or £35 if I pay within 14 days ###
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DOHH :grin:
Ho Hum
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Look on the bright side Smudger, at least you had chish and fips.
Upt.
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Got to be worth appealing that ticket, especially if a council run car park...
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I have been on their website and there is a page where you can challenge the ticket. So I will have a look on there 👍
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@ASmith61... the wind must have blown the badge off the dash when you closed and locked the door :whistle: :whistle: :whistle: worked for the FIL :grin:
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Thank you for your replies 👍
What I did in the end was pay the 50% fine £35.00.
And I also emailed East Sussex county council parking. explaining that I do have a disability blue badge and it was my mistake for forgetting to display the badge.
You never know it might make a difference??
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I'd be surprised if they do anything now you've paid the charge. For future info, the ' half price' offer is normally still there following an unsuccessful first appeal. At least the money you put into the council's pot will do more good than if it went to scumbag parking companies like parking eye...
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Today was 'secret santa' at work. We've had it early this year as one or two people are off to far flung places next week (India, Australia & Brazil) so it was the last chance to get everyone together. The theme this year was something you made yourself, no just buying a prezzie off the shelf. I got a set of four 3D printed coasters, which are great and are in use already. My prezzie was some home-made Sloe Gin, made with (some) of my own Sloe's. I always have a good amount of Sloe's on our Blackthorn bushes but the piggin' Blackbirds are much better at picking them than me!
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Today saw an early start and a drive up to Glasgow with one of my work colleagues to buy a 2018 S Class Mercedes Benz. He was very impressed with it and a deal was done. It behaved flawlessly on the way home and he's very happy with it. Not the usual sort of car a 25 year old drives and surprisingly cheap to insure too.
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Not today but yesterday I ended up working until 6pm and then spent about £500 on concert tickets for Guns n roses and iron maiden next year
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I hope that £500 got you 20 tickets :grin:, but prices these days, probably not, welcome to the jungle eh.... at those prices I would run to the hills.. :icon_wink:
Ho Hum
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I'd be surprised if they do anything now you've paid the charge. For future info, the ' half price' offer is normally still there following an unsuccessful first appeal. At least the money you put into the council's pot will do more good than if it went to scumbag parking companies like parking eye...
Just received the council’s reply.
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Asmith that's a shame since their own policy says "Likely cancel".
* If it is the first time the badge is not displayed or displayed incorrectly.
https://www.eastsussex.gov.uk/parking/guides-and-reports/guides/parking-pcn-cancellation-guide#Blue%20Badge%20Holders
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Saturday, met up with Mum and Dad for a meal. My Son (22) took us in his new car (2018 Lexus Ct). He got the taste from sitting in the front of his Grandads RX model he was given when he retired at 74 last year. Played the game of Dad can you take a quick look at our car as its playing up and then flashed the hazards with the remote. A happy expletive later he said is that yours, with a further happy expletive when I said it was his Grandsons. Got a photo of them both and cars for prosperity. A truly great day. :thumb:
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Today saw me heading off to work for the penultimate time ! Retirement is only one sleep away...
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Best thing about being retired is ...... just about everything.
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Coming in 3,2,1 "I don't know how I had time to go to work".
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Yep I retired early 4 years ago, it's bloody brilliant, as others have hinted, I don't seem to have any more free time but I'm loving it, just got my first state pension payment this week.
Down side is I'm skint all the time but Hello hoe.
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Brockett, when you're right, you're right.
Almost 13 years retired, no regrets, but still way off my OAP.
:lala:
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And just like that - I'm retired !
I had a very nice send off at work and got some lovely messages and presents, particularly the single malt variety. From now on the alarm clock is only for appointments and flights ! Happy to have been able to retire early as I'd had enough really. Looking forward to the next chapter of my life, which happens to be a months trip to New Zealand in mid January. Happy :grin:
To be fair, the likeness is stunning !
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"" To be fair, the likeness is stunning""
How the hell do you squeeze yourself onto that little bike :whistle: :whistle: :whistle:
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Congratulations 2112,
I am not one for the hard stuff, but I am tipping my Pale ale to you now :thumb:.
Ho Hum
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Yes congratulations 212
Hope both you and your good lady enjoy your retirements 👍
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Cheers folks, enjoying a celebratory bottle of fizz tonight :text-woo:
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:text-woo: :occasion-balloons: :obscene-drinkingchug:
Enjoy 2112.
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Today, I sold one of the last bits from my Tiger 1200, a set of handlebar spacers. Just one fairing screen to go and it's all cleared out.
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I got proper cold doing one of those jobs that can wait until the riding season is over.
Firstly I remembered I hadn't checked the torques on the FNS of the Hyundai following the farmer hedge cutting induced tyre change!
:violence-smack:
Then onto the number plates on Er'Indoors SEAT. I'd noticed the now almost 12 year old screws were badly corroded and didn't wish to buy new plates when they fell off due to idleness/neglect. My sore arms will recover, everything was easier on old motors, or is that just me?
It's just me isn't it.
:fix:
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Not just you it's a lot of us too. Although those plastic numberplate screws can strip their threads and then the nuts just twist and don't undo. I could hardly believe the trouble one caused me. I had to drill it and cut it off. A lot of modern stuff has single use fixings and don't lend themselves to easy removal.
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I think I'm settling into this retirement lark quite well. I was up at the crack of 10:00, presented with a bacon butty and a cup of freshly ground coffee and allowed to take in the days news. A spot of lunch, some friends coming over and a few minor chores. I can definitely get used to this way of life...
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My pal Steven underwent a hip replacement this morning. Midday he sent me a text saying he is back in bed and feeling fine. Bloody hell! the thought of it puts me a dark place. I'll shall have spend more time thinking just how lucky I have been. Well give a day or two and I'll soon be back in the M.O.G. thread.
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A tickly throat & a few sneezes last night, to wake up this morning feeling like I'd got a cold.
Deb's mum (101 yrs of age!) was supposed to be coming for dinner on Sunday, so I did a COVID test. Yep, I'm positive! :roll:
Still, there's always the bright side to it ........ "If you have a positive COVID-19 test result, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for 5 days after the day you took your test. :grin:
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Hope you feel better better soon Mick, and best wishes to Deb's mum!!!
Today I finished work for the Christmas holidays and took the kids to a pantomime (oh no I didn't, oh yes I did!). This year's was Beauty and the Beast in Harrogate - recommend to anyone in the area :thumb:
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Tickly cough my arse Mick.
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20210705-how-children-are-spoofing-covid-19-tests-with-soft-drinks
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Get well soon Mick. This is no time to be unwell when there's wet glasses that need to be held
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Thanks Jonathan, I'll put that in the memory microwave for a later date, might come in handy. :icon_wink:
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Cheers Dave, I'm on the Guinness & brandy chasers as I type. :obscene-drinkingchug:
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I collected my Grandson so he can stay with me for a week or so.
Now I have lost my TV and my chair next to the radiator and most of the food I bought to last until mid January.
But it will be worth it.
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Take care of yourself Mick.
Didn't get round to having the flu jab a few weeks ago when my GP was messaging me with availability.
As the media started reporting the rising hospital admissions I was proper getting my head pecked to get it done.
Local chemists was doing walk in so off I go.
Offers me Covid at the same time, (both arms sore :GRR: )
reluctantly say yes.
Glad I did now...
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Thanks Neil. I had the COVID & Flu in the same arm, at the same time, no point in having two hurting. :grin:
It's only when you mention you've got it to a few friends that you realise how much of it is out there ..... but nobody mentions it now. :GRR:
After a bad day yesterday I woke up this morning feeling a lot better.
I think I've found the cure, a good fry up, Guinness & Brandy. :whistle:
In truth, I don't think this variant is that bad? We can only hope it's getting weaker? :thumb:
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I caught this variant last year,not as bad as the first time I caught it at Christmas 2020,I was REALLY ill,it was Christmas week,and the docs.wouldn’t answer the phone,I called the NHS helpline and they were mega helpful and booked me into the local hospital who thought I might have had a dose of pneumonia and gave me a course of antibiotics,I honestly thought I wasn’t going to make it I felt so ill(this was a couple of weeks before Covid was official).I was starting to pick up as it was about 5 days after the worst day.This second dose has left me with a few not too clever after effects,loss of taste,loss of smell( mostly),it’s very strange,If I pass a lady wearing a nice perfume I can smell it,but straight after the first sniff….nothing.I can be very sleepy,I can be out on the bike,or shopping/ driving and nothing happens but as soon as I sit down and relax I want to doze off.I think the sense of smell might just be starting to come back……( fingers crossed 🤞)
I had my fu jab some weeks ago and the RSV jab 2 weeks ago,no after effects with either,not even a sore arm.
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My son has it for the fourth time and this is the worst it has been :violence-smack:. I've never caught it. :lala: My mate Steven had his hip replacement last Saturday and was up walking with a frame that same afternoon. :icon_crutch: My other mate who gave up and sold his bikes in the summer has secretly bought a Triumph Bobber :auto-dirtbike: (Yeah I know it takes all sorts) As of yesterday his wife is content that he'll never buy another bike so we have nominated Steven to tell her. She wouldn't kick a man on crutches would she? Anyway, we three are looking forwards to some more motorbike fun in 2025.
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Today, I've loaned my car out for 12 weeks to my mate Andrea who doesn't have a car after hers had to be scrapped following a dismal MOT failure. Her partner and my very good mate Alec is terminally ill with PSP and they need to get around to visit friends & family while they can. He also has a plethora of medical appointments across the North East in early January. They've just won an appeal to get a Motability car (after several months of fighting...) but it'll take a few weeks to turn up. He's going downhill fast and it's hard to watch him just fade away to be honest, but I know I'll regret not going to see him more if I don't. Progressive Supranuclear Palsy is a vile disease but thankfully very rare. No cure or effective treatment yet either. At least they've had a good Christmas.
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Progressive neurological condition are blummin horrible. I've seen a few and I don't like them. The last one took an old school pal at around 58 years.
Well done fella and make sure you see him as much as possible when you're able. It'll mean a lot to him and from experience it will later mean a lot to you.
My o'd mum used to say, "what you give you get back tenfold". I think she was right.
Upt.
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Re my post above. Steven has caught Covid. He hasn't seen anyone and can't go out so how did that happen? It's that bloody miasma again.
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There's been no football matches, or training, for my two grandsons for the last week so I took one of them (the other was at a birthday party) for a bit of training.
After an hour of putting him through some hard work his grandad was knackered :whistle: so I got him home to have a shower & change.
Deb & myself then took him for a breakfast. Our favourite, local café, was closed so we went to the reserve & I was pleasantly surprised with the fried breakfast. It has improved :)
The grandson still won't eat black pudding or tomatoes (tinned of course) & he's "gone off" beans :shrug: but along with the football training, I'm working on his fried breakfast eating too. :icon_wink:
When we got home we played a few games (nana & grandad lost most of them :shy:) then earlier this evening I took him to the local pub for a few hours, it was a mate's daughters 18th & a few of his friends would be there.
A diet coke for the boy & a few beers for grandad.
A grand day was had by all. :thumb:
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That sounds like pretty much a perfect day Barbel.
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After fitting a quickshifter to my Transalp (see traitors corner for pic etc) it was time to take a look at the dishwasher which stopped working on Boxing Day. After a bit of mooching around I discovered that the filter was blocked as it had become detached (Bosch rubbish...). After a bit of swearing, brute force and prayers it eventually came loose, allowing the filthy water to drain away. I took it out, cleaned it, reassembled it (with a bit of wire to stop it splitting apart again) and the dishwasher is now back to full operation. Happy.
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Today I opened a selection of presents, apparently as a reward for getting a year older. After 59 of them it's still a crap time of year for a birthday!
P.S. I used to have a mean aunty who always got me a single Christmas AND birthday present...
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She might have just been frugal.
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Nah, she was as tight as a submarines hatch !
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Not driven the Doblo for two weeks so I hooked up the battery charger for 6 hours.
While that was going on, I removed the light, fancy, but ridiculously loud stainless exhaust pipe from the Enfield 500 and refitted the quiet, but ridiculously heavy OE pipe. I used the kick starter (like a real biker) to get the engine running to test for leaks. It does a happy dance and goes "bom, bom, bom, bom". I did think about going for a ride but after two seconds realised it is too cold for me.
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Those Enfield exhausts are ridiculously heavy aren't they.
Pity there isn't much choice of aftermarket ones, apart from generic ones that are too loud/pour quality and then Hitchcock's that are still stupid heavy.
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The header pipe is like a bent scaffold pole. The end can carries the cat and that is one fat moggie to be sure. I will have to look around for a mute to shove into the stainless header.
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Black Widow do an in-pipe mute if I'm not mistaken, might be worth a look.
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Not today but yesterday.
My rear camera on my car had failed. (Hyundai Santa Fe) I had bought a replacement well before Christmas. Originally I was going to get my mechanic I use for service etc to fit it.
But after watching a video how to fit it on you tube ( the person on the video made it look quite easy)
So I thought I would do it myself, saying to my wife it should only take about an hour !!
So after having the you tube video to hand to watch which way to start etc.
First thing was to undo the 4 Phillips screws and the 6mm bolts that hold the back panel inside the rear tailgate 👍 so far so good, back to the video to see how to get the back panel off. Easier said than done 🤣 it is held in with those little plastic clips that are so easy to break :icon_batterup:
Getting started was the hard part I was using a plastic pri bar set I had bought ( which looked like it was made of butter) so I found some plastic tile packing bits 👍 I managed to make a start in one corner and trying my hardest not to break any of the clips. I finally got the back panel off with only breaking one clip :dance:
My wife came out with a coffee and asked how’s it going after a few choice words from me she went back in doors.
Back to the video to see what was next…
Take out both rear lights lots of 10mm nuts to find and undo 👍
Then take off the back panel on the outside of the tailgate which has the Hyundai badge and is the whole length of the tailgate, lots more 10mm nuts to find and undo, and Also 6 white plastic clips that you can see with a head torch on but cannot get to (especially with my sausage fingers ) a lot of head scratching and swearing it was time to go and get the wife to see if her smaller fingers could help.
I needed the tailgate to be fully up so I could see what I was doing and unfortunately the wife is quite a bit shorter than me could not reach🤣
In a normal situation these clips needed squeezing between forefinger & thumb to release. But as you can imagine the inside of a tailgate is a mass of metal work wires and tiny spaces.
My wife suggested put it all back together and contact the mechanic.
Well I had come this far and was not going to give up now !!!!
So a call was made to my good friend Andy who promptly came to help, I showed him the problem and his words were them clips are bastards they normally break as the get fatigued :crazy:
He has a very good engineering bray and made up a hook type thingy from some bits he found in my garage and managed to pull against one side of the clips while pushing with a small screwdriver and released every one while I had the plastic tile things outside with some pressure, and he did this without breaking any of the clips.
So the camera was know in view 2 screws and undo the power clip, new one plugged in and tried now working find 👍
Putting it all back together took no time at all. If it wasn’t for Andy I would have still been doing it lol
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Hi
Was given a ignition coil for my 1966 Honda C95, but had to make some brackets to get it to fit cleanly, as it was from a Honda CD175, but it works and I am getting a dual spark.
I am now a Positive Euphoria Bunny!
Cheers
Crazyhorse
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Fitted a massive topbox to my tiny scooter.
When the weather improves I want to use the scoot to commute a bit more, but the 30ltr box it came with won't fit my works laptop, and I don't really want to risk it in my backpack in the rain - I do live in Wales after all.
I've used waterproof liners in my backpack, but it's another thing to faff with when we're all trying to pack up and run out the door at 5pm, plus the laptop weights a fair bit. :auto-dirtbike:
M&P had their Teck7 boxes on offer when I popped in with my daughter on Monday- £24.95 for the 51ltr - sure that will be big enough lol
I'd looked at waterproof roll top bags, the Lextek ones are around £25 but the straps are a bit flimsy and the tidy brands start at £40, so a new topbox was a bit of a bargain. It's sturdy enough, I'm not going load that much.
I fitted it quickly in my lunch break, simple enough with the usual universal base plate, I'll grab a quick picture tomorrow to show the size.
People will think I'm delivering Pizza!
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Did someone say pizza!
:ty:
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Today we were hoping to get out on the bike for an early in the year ride. The weather forecast showed lots of sunshine but below freezing temperatures. Made a late call yesterday evening to call it off. No point in risking it on icy roads (no gritters out around here last night) if you don't have to.
So, I took the two grandsons football training this morning for an hour then Deb & myself took them out for a bite to eat. We visited four cafes before finding the fifth one open! (you'd think TLPower was with us! :whistle:)
Not only do I give the grandsons a good grounding in the art of football but I am also giving them a good grounding for the Full English breakfast. Unfortunately neither likes Black Pudding & one doesn't like beans. :shrug: I'm working on them though. :grin:
Another grand day out. :thumb:
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Today, I got my MG EV5 back from the dealers after it refused to start last night. A call to the AA saw me recovered to the local MG dealer in Ashington. Turns out the 12v battery which keeps the 'brain' alive had died, making the car entirely unresponsive as everything is electric. Sadly, that part is no longer covered under the 7 year warranty (onlt 12 months for the 12v battery) so £163 later the car was fixed and back to full working order. Not the best start to 2025...
On a brighter note, our luggage tags for our forthcoming trip to New Zealand have arrived !
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Not today but yesterday. I'm always late....
A walk up the Breamish Valley with Er'Indoors.
Coffee and Cake were consumed.
Pffffffftttttt.
Upt.
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Looks bracing Up't. I decided it was high time to get rid of Christmas and took the decorations down for another year.
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Pizza Delivery
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Not enough chrome bars, badges or mirrors......... :hd:
lol
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The exhaust looks funky mind :thumb:
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I'll bet that the exhaust touches the ground. :roll: :thumb:
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The top box looks fine 👍
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Stood on the scales .......... mistake. :shock:
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DON'T LOOK DOWN
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The scales are NOT your firnd this time of year, just saying....
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I went to Spain for two weeks over Christmas and broke my foot while there. The Spanish hospital was first class, they x/rayed and identified the fracture as 5th Tarsal left foot. They put it in plaster then wheeled me to my friends car and waved bye bye after telling me to report to the hospital on my return to England.
I visited my GP hoping that he would tell me there is no need to visit the A&E but he phoned the A&E department and was told to send me there ASAP for a plaster. I had to cut the first one off when I arrived back in England because it was wet, loose and hurting away from the fracture.
The Dr in A&E took another two X/rays and confirmed the fracture but said there was no treatment required, no plaster or plastic boot?
Today I put my normal walking boots on which offer some support and went out to my bike for the first time. It started first touch of the button and I was so tempted to ride it but the thought of having to put my left foot down (usually right) and dropping the bike because of the pain put me off but one day very soon I will have to mount the beast and ignore my conscience. :auto-dirtbike: :thumb:
Bit late but Happy New Year to all.
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Saw this brave soul riding along when I was out on a walk this evening. Hope they got back OK - was bad enough walking.
It's been many years since I took a motorbike out in conditions like this. May have been my Fazer in 2010. I remember coming to a stop at a junction on sheet ice and a group of school kids started pointing at me shouting "he's going to fall off" lol
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......and did you? 30 - odd years and and old z650 since I played that silly game. I don't miss the “thrill” of riding in snow and ice.
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A 10 mile commute (no public transport) on a solo in all weathers and a mostly rural route. Before Gortex, Tinsulate, or full face helmets, freezing fingers, feet and face or soaking wet and going too fast because I was always almost late. The good old days weren't that good at all.
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Worst winter in my memory was 1963/4,I rode to work on my Bantam with wellies on so I could put my feet down in the slush,no trolley buses were running and the diesel bus engines were all clogged up with wax.This was before we had “winter diesel” .Passed my driving test a year later and bought a car.
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@Rusty, no I didn't but I did have to park at the bottom of my drive and use a spade to break up the ice before I could get the bike to the garage.
Think that was the year I thought about buying a quad bike for winter commuting but the missus said I was an idiot :shrug: (never bought one)
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Worst winter in my memory was 1963/4,I rode to work on my Bantam
This should read the winter of 1962/3.👍
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This is my worst winter.
https://youtu.be/RPcdXb3jpMM?si=6WW8U8EBCsyELgbu
Hope it works.
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A true story.
One unusually wintry early morning in Cambridgeshire I dolled up in best warm winter gear and boots to ride to work on my trusty Suzuki GT550. The road looked like UK_Vstrom650's photo but I knew how to ride gently in the unpressed snow at the edge of the road so sucessfully made it to the village crossroads, wanting to turn right. Unfortunately the road surface here was packed snow topped with glassy ice. Cars were sliding in different directions and drivers unacustomed to the conditions insisted on wheel spinning on the spot with no forward momentum whatsoever.
I dismounted my bike having been told that the traffic was backed up as the local bus couldn't manage to mount the hill to my right, just past the bus stop. At this point I decided to retreat, push my bike to the edge of the road and go home and return to catch the bus even if I'd be even later into work.
So in a standing position with hands on the handlebars I pushed gently. The bike didn't move but my feet did...backwards. In a moment I had to lay the bike over before my feet sped up and I found my helmet against the ice. I gingerly recovered, put my feet under the seat and tank and lifted the bike back up. No problem there so I went for push number two. Ooops, same effect, once more losing any traction on the ice and the bike was on it's side again. At this point no-one is getting out of their vehicles to help as it's far too slippery. I got the bike up again and you can guess, the third effort has exactly the same outcome.
I am obviously embarassed now but determined to surmount the problem. I took a far more upright posture and got the wheels moving at last and with a bit of momentum and very short steps I got the bike turned round and back into soft unpacked snow. So home I went without too much delay to change into general citizen gear and return to catch the next bus out of the village.
A little bit later I'm at the bus stop with another traveller and chatting to him about the chaos such bad weather brings to road users. "Yes," he said "you should have been here earlier. Some mad idiot tried to get to Cambridge on his motorbike from the crossroads back there, dropped his bike three times before he gave it up as a bad job!" :roll: :haha: :crazy:
:whistle: :shy:
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Today was/is my birthday so Deb & myself picked up my mate and visited a local café for a coffee & a bite to eat. No Full English today as we were having dinner tonight when one of the grandkids was coming round straight from school.
After that we had a run up the road to the Superbike Factory at Donington Park for another coffee & a bit of bike porn. Nobody was looking to buy anything just something to do on a cold winters day.
My mate has had some medical issues for a few years & has stopped riding. I was round at his house 3/4 weeks ago when he announced he'd found his heated gloves, a few years old, but only worn once before he had his first stroke & they've been in the cupboard since then, about 6 years. I offered him £50 for them but he said he wasn't selling them.
Today he gave them to me as a birthday present! (plus a few bottles of beer) I obviously said no (not to the beer) & offered to pay him the initial offer I'd made, but he was adamant.
Can't wait for the temperature to go up a few degrees & the salt to get washed away then I'll be able to get out & try them. :thumb:
A few photos to prove it happened.
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Happy birthday Mick 🎂🍻
That was very nice of him hope they get lots of use.
Great pictures 👍
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Thank you & yes it was.
Regarding the usage....I don't!! lol
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I dug my heated waistcoat out a couple of days ago. I haven't used it in years. I then remembered it has a Euro (I think) type plugs on it so I found one of the more usual type plugs in my toolbox. It needs to be soldered and my soldering iron is miles away in my lockup so ordered a new one that screws together.
The last time I used the vest it was -4 when I wore it over a T shirt and under my bike jacket to ride from Plymouth to London for the motorcycle show. It got so hot it burnt my shoulder. Anyway, when the new plug arrives I will ware it again but be more careful what I wear under it this time. I hope it stays cold enough to try it, just for a few day's though.
I remember many years ago my Son told me that he couldn't get to work because the busses couldn't get through the snow. I asked if he really wanted to go to work or take the day off and when he chose work, I took him on my BMW R65LS. I did get some strange looks as I rode past streets of stuck cars. Those were the days. I loved it and was proud of myself and my Son and ready for a hot cup of tea when I got home. :thumb:
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Mick - Many happy returns of the day.
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Thanks Dave. :thumb:
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Happy Birthday for yesterday Mick.
Will be good to hear how you get on with the heated gloves as I may buy some...
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Thank you. I'll report back asap. :thumb:
I do hear good reports about having heated gloves over heated grips & I have been contemplating which to go for since I got this bike, now I don't have to. :)
I thought the heated grips (Oxford) on the 650 were great though.
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Booked the tunnel for 20th of May. Something to look forward to and to force me to at least loosely plan something. Vosges and black forest I think :happydance:
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You won't like it MilozFolly!
Over the past few years I've had the toil of driving across France to visit one son in Strasbourg and one daughter near Friebourg. My cross France route on quiet country roads means I have to put up with a Hotel stop along the way. Through the Voges and Alsace has horrible climbs up winding roads where you can't see off one side and on the other little towns and villages below across valleys....totally disorientating! Colmar is crammed with folk (not in May) because of it's beautiful buildings and river. Strasbourg worse with 'bateaux mouches' to boot. You'll have to avoid trams in both cities and worse, Friebourg has open gutters in the streets! The Black Forest, well let me tell you that cake is enormous and almost impossible to eat in one sitting. Flammekuche, just a very thin pizza and you'll get fed up with susages too. Can you fit snow chains to your bike tyres? Awful prospect if you ask me. :shock:
To be honest it's a fabulous area to explore, great roads (outside of school holidays), food is great and fuel cheaper in Germany too. Oh, did I mention my daughter was a tour guide for Strasbourg, Colmar, Friebourg, Basel and the Black Forest?
Get planning and enjoy! :thumb:
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Oooh Colmar bookmarked. Looks stunning.
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It's very nice, full of character and brim full of cracking restaurants & bars. Well worth a visit :thumb:
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Today, we got a text to say our New Zealand currency had arrived and was available for collection. It's remarkably cheerful & colourful and makes our notes look positively dull in comparison. Currently about 2:1 conversion factor (we got 2.13 NZ to £1 at Ramsdens). I'm starting to get excited now as we're flying on Friday.
I also received a £70 bottle of wine ( 2018 Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir) from an unknown person? Very kind indeed, but no sender details?
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M.F.
We had an overnight in Freudenstadt this year, nice enough place and well situated for your travels I would have thought if you're passing through or stopping.
Upt.
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Just bought some replacement cheek pads ont'line for Er'Indoors helmet of safety.
Saw that Bargain Biker Brands are closing due to ill health. We've used them before and they seem to have some decent offers at the moment.
Just in case you've got some wonga burning a hole in your sky rocket.
Funny NZ money not accepted.
Upt.
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Thanks Upt. I'll be passing straight by there on the b500 so will add it to the list. I'm bound to be either hungry or thirsty or both :text-goodpost:
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All packed up and ready to head off to New Zealand tomorrow ! We have 2 nights in Singapore on the way there and then 2 nights in Dubai on the way back to break up the flights a bit. Looking forward to it but I'll be happier when I'm actually there... We're doing both North & South Islands with trips to the Franz Joseph Glacier, Hobbiton and a couple of vineyards as some of the highlights along the way. Back in a months time...
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Not jealous at all lol
Hope you both have a great time enjoy you have earned it :thumb:
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Loaded the car up and sodded off on the first ski trip of the year.
2 days driving to get out of the way then slidey fun times and wine.
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Hmmmm....... Raclette and Tartiflette washed down with a crisp Savoie white!
Enjoy. :icon_crutch:
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Today I went out to fit a headlight protector on my bike as I noticed a couple of very small stone marks last time I washed it and realised that a few quid spent now could save a big hit to my wallet in the future.
I haven't ridden since early December last year because of a holiday with friends where I broke my foot. I thought I should ride slow because I would be a bit rusty but guess what, I felt like it was the end off summer after many thousand miles of regular riding. I loved it and found that my motorbike boots offered the same protection as the boot given to me by the hospital.
Will I be going out again for a longer ride tomorrow? You bet! :auto-dirtbike: :thumb:
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After a crap few days in Lanzarote that resulted in a doctor's call out I ended the week at the local Honda dealer with an order for a new CB1000 Hornet SP.
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Today was the first day I've been out & tried them.
The first thing to say is at 6° & the gloves set on medium my whole hands were warm enough, not hot, but never got cold either. (I didn't try the high setting as I'd have had to stop to do it :)) Even the thumb, which I found still got cold with heated grips, was warm enough.
I ran them from a 'large' Keis battery that I stuck into the inside pocket of my jacket. But what a bloody faff trying to keep each leg of the 'y' lead from the battery/controller down the sleeves of the outer jacket when putting it on. If I needed to use them every day (commuting?) then I'd have to sort some sort of fixing for the leads inside the sleeves, or, I'd use heated grips & some bar muffs? But for once/twice a week use, I suppose it's not too bad.
Overall, heated gloves are excellent for keeping the whole hand warm (hot if you wanted) & you could swap from bike to bike by just re-fitting the feed wire, or have the wiring on multiple bikes if required.
A few minutes extra required to get dressed but is that too much to stay comfortable.
Today at 6° with the heated jacket on low & the heated gloves on medium I never felt cold at all.
I'll keep wearing them, but just need to figure out how to run & hold the feed wires in the sleeves ........ open to suggestions from regular users. :thumb:
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Disclaimer; This is not my bike and the friend who owns it had a nasty fall down some fire escape stairs so hasn't been able to ride, or really walk, since it last went out. Last ridden Nov 29th on very salty roads. This weekends tinker was resurrecting a Gladius which had seized solid. Side stand wouldn't retract, all 3 brakes were bound on and there was an unlocated oil leak when running.
3hrs with the cleaning products, tiny wire brushes etc and we had her back to life. All brake pistons pushed back OK, pads came up useable with aggressive wire brushing and somehow, by an act of witchcraft, the chain only had one slightly stiff link which was the joining one. It was a very new chain so only really surface corrosion on side plates, no blown x-rings fortunately.
The oil leak was diagnosed as the salt corrosion having eaten a pin prick hole in the oil filter housing so, since it needed a service anyway, a free recovery.
Apart from all the curry and wine they now owe me for labour rates 🤣
* Being a Suzuki, it did however start first push and run like a sewing machine.
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Good job, Rix!
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Yes great job 👍
From the first few pictures it looked more like a barn find.
:text-goodpost:
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Looks like it's been dragged out of the ocean! I couldn't have imagined that it would clean up so well. Propper job. :thumb:
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:bow-blue: top job Mr Rixington. :bow-blue:
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Good save. Proper crusty, that was.
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That is bloody scary and maybe shows what happens when the bike is not rinsed after a salty ride.
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Yesterday but time ran out to post ... :)
Yesterday all started well, a lazy morning then an hour walking the daughters dog. After dinner (lunch for you posh sorts) we went to see my mum. It was her 101st birthday! Unfortunately she is confined to bed now & didn't want her photo taken like that, so I've posted one of her at her 100th last year.
Later on we went to pick one of the grandkids up to take him to a sports shop to try some running shoes on. I promised him some before I knew how much they were! :groan: On the way back home, in rush hour, we were moving slowly in traffic, I put my indicator on to take a left turn, a chap travelling in the opposite direction & waiting to turn right, saw the opportunity to get across in front of me. No problem with that, but he didn't see the chap crossing the road. He took him out, hitting him with his offside wing.
Obviously Deb & myself stopped to assist. The chap wasn't too badly hurt, possible broken ankle & other bruising, but we think he was lucky.
An ambulance & police were called. The police arrived in 20 minutes, the ambulance took an hour!
Later that night we got a call from Care Link (monitoring alarm for the elderly) to say Deb's mum (also 101 years old) had made a call. We got there about 22.00 to find her on the floor & covered in blood. She'd fallen & ripped the skin from a wrist & and elbow.
Again, the ambulance was called, this time we were told, because it wasn't a 'life threatening' situation, it could be anything from 2 to 6 hours before one arrived. I left Deb there around 23.30, Deb got home at 05.30!
At present, Deb is with her mum who is still in A&E, over 8 hours after being taken there. ###
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I hope all turns out well for you and yours Mick. The NHS is wonderful but having problems at the moment , a shame.
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Yes Mick as nigel s said ….all the best to you and yours. Having both mums 101 years young is amazing fingers crossed for them both 🙏🏻
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Yes Mick, 101 not out is a great achievement. My mum was a few months short of 102 when she passed in September. Best regards to all.
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Happy Birthday to your mum Mick, and hope Deb's mum is on the mend and home by now.
Fingers crossed for the pedestrian too. Expect a call from a solicitor to act as witness for them.
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Yesterday but,
Got a call from one of our subby electricians , who is crew , asking if I knew anyone that could have a look at our local independent ( not RNLI ) at Sea Palling, lifeboat that had hit something.
Not worked on an in service lifeboat before so said yes I will have a look.
Very interesting to have a poke around the station, if a pain to access, the boat was still on the trailer and had to crawl under to find the hole, not too bad, repaired it to spec so it could be recertified for use , all good .
Don't get that everyday :grin:
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No riding today, been " upcycling "... whatever the Feck that is supposed to mean :shrug: ...some engine beds for my Mothers garden to make planters.
The new boat engines are delivered on pallets with large timber mounts and if you are REAL determined and get big time angry with the one time , air gun shot in ridged nails can rescue some decent timber.
I beat the living feck out of maybe ten of them and rescued enough to make four planters.
Honestly.........it is easier just to buy the wood ...........but they were there so.................
Ho Hum
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Next door are away on two week's hols and pinged us to say their mail order bedding plants were apparently out for delivery (a month earlier than promised) and could we bring them in. They arrived on Thursday and I unpacked them. I've never seen such small plugs, about 1x1 cm, and by yesterday they were growing into each other so badly I went our for some more suitable plug trays and potted them all on. All 240 of them... As its so stupidly early for non-hardy plants like these I cannot leave them in my unheated greenhouse, so all six seed trays have pretty much taken over the whole of the kitchen and utility room windowsills. Next door are back in another week so we're stuck with them until then.
At least it was nice and warm in the sunshine as I got stuck into the job in the greenhouse yesterday afternoon. By 5pm though the temperature was dropping like a stone!
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Got home this morning after spending the weekend at Center Parcs with the mrs, 2 daughters, step son and 3 granddaughters. Was back at work this afternoon for a rest lol.
Had an emergency call out to a boiler break down, only to find they had run out of oil :angry-banghead:
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Today, I received my first pension payment ! I rather foolishly forgot to set it up before we went to New Zealand for a month, so the bank account has been starting to drain a bit. The Mrs has hers underway so all is peachy at the moment :thumb:
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Today, after a bit of a tidy up in the garage, I moved the 'granny charger' to suit the EV9's rear charge port. Very happy with the neat installation and it works spot on. Unfortunately, my Makita 18v battery drill of 15 years died during the process. A whiff of burning and that was it, no more :bawl:
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That install almost looks like you used to do something similar for a living at one time :shy:
Ho Hum
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That is way too tidy. Stop setting the bar so high - the rest of us have no chance of getting even close!
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Sorry lol
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As the DVLA have been really quick getting our log book back to us (under a week), it was time to fit our personalised numberplates to the EV9. It's so easy to do online and you transfer the plate instantly. I was inspired by the Kia UK EV9 press car with the plate EV09 WOW and found a suitable plate with EV09 and our surname (with the vowels removed). Remarkably inexpensive too, which is nice. No issues with the insurance company who changed the details over free of charge, result!
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I went out to do some chores today and then went for a nice ride then called into my local Suzuki dealer's caffe for a cup of tea just before it closed. While there I decided to ask for a quote for checking the valves (V-Strom 1000 2012) and adjusting if necessary. I also said I would like them to change the plugs and air filter while the tank is off. I would provide the iridium spark plugs and filter.
To be honest I had no intention of having the work done there but wanted the ridicules high quote first before shopping around. I nearly fell over when I was quoted £456 total and that includes any shims it may need. So, the bikes booked in for the 2 April though I'll drop it off just before they close the day before so it's stone cold when they do the job.
I'm shocked, £456 is a lot of money but I was expecting it to be a minimum of £600 at a main dealer. I'll change the oil and filter sometime in the next few days and all will be well. I'm a happy chap. :lala: :thumb:
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Yesterday I sold my V-Strom 1000 - to Superbike Factory who offered me more than I thought I could get selling it privately or part ex, it was a pretty slick experience and when they came to collect, there was no haggling over the price as, as the bloke said, the condition was as described. I only lost £700 on that bike in a little over 3 years of ownership, not bad depreciation.
So today, I've ordered a Triumph Tiger Sport 800, should have it in 7-10 days.
Still waiting to hear when the Hornet 1000 SP that I ordered will be available.
The CFMoto 450MT that I have on order will be cancelled as I can't see that being here until June at the earliest given the KTM distribution issues (haven't been paying their shipping and customs fees).
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Good information about the sale.
Ta me duck.
Upt.
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Today, saw me book a holiday to Colmar, France in July. We've been before, but only for a few hours each time, it'll be nice to have the time to explore it properly. The only fly in the ointment is flying from Edinburgh, not the handy 20 minuets that Newcastle Airport is for us. A train from Morpeth is the best option for us, when the tickets get released.
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2112, for a fee (a very big fee) I could ask my daughter to go back to Tourist Guide for the area. She worked for a company organising visits for Rhine cruises to Colmar, Strasbourg, Friebourg, and Basle. Oh, the Black Forest too. She still lives there and my son in Strasbourg too, our visits to the region are always special, it was Christmas in Strasbourg last year.
Covid killed it all off for her unfortunately.
Enjoy Colmar but I think July will be very busy...... Haut Koenigsbourg Castle is a must too.
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Yes, it's a cracking place. The Mrs is eyeing it up for Christmas this year as it happens :thumb:
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Today, it's been a case of packing our bags and heading off to see friends in Norfolk area. Then it's off to Beverley, Hull for a few days with the wine group and then heading home. This retirement lark is non-stop mind !!!
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lol lol enjoy Mr & Mrs 2112 👍
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Only just watched the blummin Toon beat a load of scousers.
:happydance:
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Not many "scousers" in that team.
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First bit of gardening of the year today. Have had a good cutback of various bushes and apple trees - am hoping it's just in time for this year although think it should have been done a few weeks ago. Never mind. Got the shredder out and made some chippings for the bushes too.
Also had an empty of the loft, the wife has decided to sell all her motorcycle gear as it's been in storage for years and she says she has no interest in going on the bike. All the kit is hardly used so shame to sell, but no point keeping it. Might pop it in the For Sale section in a few days - in case anyone is interested ahead of it going on Facebook market place etc.
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Hello
Went slightly mad and purchased a Yoshimura RS12 slip on exhaust for my 800RE, and fitted it this afternoon (nice and easy).
Sounds very interesting if a little on the noisy side, but as it does not have so much depth (physically) as the standard unit, it looks as though my adjustments of the rear drive chain will not give me so much back pain leaning down to look at the RHS swinging arm adjustment marks.
Also less strain on my poor old knees as well...Happy days!!!
Crazyhorse
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I was riding a very familiar B road today and caught up with a BMW 4x4 police car on blues and two's chasing a VW Golf. They were hitting 80mph, the golf showed no sign of stopping and the chase went on for about four miles before a Volvo 4x4 came up behind me, he came from a junction off the A30.
I slowed and let him pass and then followed the three of them and was wondering whether I should pass them all and slow the Golf to a stop but then thought better of it because he could have rammed me. Suddenly the golf pulled in and stopped, the Volvo stayed in the middle of the road with a sign in the back window lit up saying "Do not pass". I hung back and watched then the Golf was off again and the chase began again, it was great fun because when cars moved over and stopped to let the police through I followed too.
After about 10 miles the Golf and the cop cars stopped and did a U turn, it was then that I noticed that the driver of the Golf, front seat passenger and one in the back were wearing Hi Viz jackets and realised this and I would say that it was a lucky one too. :thumb:
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I have reread the above post and realised that somehow I have, while editing the original text after previewing messed it up and lost some of the post too. :roll:. I'm too tired to out it right now so it's going to have to stay as is. I may amend it tomorrow. I am sober too. :roll: :thumb:
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lol It was all a dream, just like Bobby Ewing in Dallas. lol
They do it round here all the time, they do love a game of cops an' robbers. They usually finish at a McDonalds have a chat then go again.
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The story of my ride yesterday, continued.
I realised that what I had been chasing was not a real pursuit but an exercise and that one of those police cars could have dropped out of the chase at any time and booked me for speeding which I didn't expect they would do if it was for real. I think I was lucky.
Further into the ride I caught up with another BMW 4x4, I followed knowing that there was a safe overtake coming up (I do know the road well) but noticed four oblong, white coloured things on the back window. Guessing that this was a police car too I stayed and followed until the T junction at the end of this long road (it was the main road before the A30 and follows it). When we came to the T road the BM was turning right so I came down the inside to turn left, sure enough the driver and passenger were in HI Viz and this was a cop car too. I'm glad I didn't pass because I would have had to speed again to do so. Another bit of luck.
Anyway, enough of that now. I'm going to shower and take a ride across Dartmoor to Plymouth buy something then return home so a couple of hours nice ride again today before having to take my friend somewhere in my car, Yuk! I hate driving. :groan: :thumb:
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TLPower. I was a firefighter for 30 odd years and used to go out training often in a Landrover Discovery. I always felt ridiculous turning off the blues and two's then driving at or below the speed limit before pulling in for a debrief and a swap of drivers. Other drivers must have thought it was ridiculous too if they hadn't realised we were only training. :thumb:
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Booked the Varadero's wheels in for a tyre change in the local place.
Used them for the car stuff a few times, but they'll do bike MOT's a service/tyres, but don't have all the tools and stands so take your loose wheels in... Just need to remember how I jacked the bike up with the centre stand to take both wheels off now.
Take wheels off Sunday, drop in Monday on the school run and pic up later or Tuesday after the school run and fit back on later on Tuesday.
I'll also need to find my supply of wheel weights, as they also can't do the balancing, but cheaper and more convenient than any other place fairly local.
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Well I've had a day off from riding, I needed to wash my bedding. While the washing machine did it's thing (two loads) I decided to clean the cooker and deep clean the kitchen. When I'd finished my back was aching so much I had to take pain killers but I felt good for what I had achieved.
I washed my hands and arms then went into the kitchen to make a well earned cup of tea and guess what, the kitchen looks just the same as before I started. What a waste of time! :roll: :thumb:
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After lunch I cut a hole in the Bosch Dryer as per the Youtube video to make way for an inspection flap ( soon the arrive from Ebay) . There is no easy way to remove the build up of choking fluff from the condenser or the heat exchanger. I did strip it down a few years ago and I am not feeling the need to get up to my armpits in that again. The hole I cut allowed some slight access to the condenser. I used a pump up garden sprayer to inject some warm water, then some detergent and after an hour a number (at least 10) of extended squirts from the sprayer into the fins of the condenser. Three hours later and the water is at last pumping out a little clear. It started out looking like a sewage spill without the pong. A full strip and clean takes about four hours. Labour charges mean it is just not cost effective and it why most machines at this stage get junked and replaced with new ones. Bosch and the others must be rubbing their hands since the Govt. wants to ban the sale of the all other types.
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Today, the penny dropped and I remembered to cancel my car insurance for a car I've not owned for over a month now! No drama and I'm getting a cheque for £75 in the post, which is nice. The crafty buggers are taking £45 as a cancellation fee though or it would have been £120... ###
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### indeed 2112 they are robbing bastards :icon_batterup:
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Glad you cancelled it though as you can end up liable if an insurance claim is made on an old vehicle if the insurance is still active.
Today, I filled the garage with several boxes that got delivered for some building work we have going on. Sadly it'll make it tricky to get the Strom or any bicycles out of there for a week or so :icon_no:
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Preparing for a three night away trip. Packed, the top box which was weighed at 7kg and a small stuffer bag was duly stuffed with the overweight from the top box, and all secured and ready to go in the morning. Watched a video explaining how the Cardo should be set up. Now it is able to complete the tasks I want. Yes it was me, sitting with my helmet on and speed dialling my mate just say "testing testing 123". he was, as you can imagine, so thrilled. Now I have to sit and wait for tomorrow like a kid on Christmas eve. You'd think at 77 I wouldn't get so exited about a bike ride.
Do you think I should unpack everything to check that I haven't forgotten something. :roll:
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Don't forget to charge the Cardo after all the testing. And make sure you've a way to charge it when you're ‘there’, wherever there turns out to be.
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Today, as it was such a glorious day up here in Northumberland, it was time for the first strim & grass cut of the year front & back. I had to give the mower a quick clean down & sharpen before I started, but it cut well for the first one of the year,. Loads of hedging, shrubs & trees to cut back too... Later.
Note the lack of a Kia EV9 on the drive, it's back with Kia for a recall and some software updates - and to get the scratch the Mrs put in it repaired. In the meantime we have a rather compact Kia EV3 as a courtesy car. It's OK but feels like a toy compared to the EV9!
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Went for an MOT, it passed :happydance:.
Now more water out of the waterpump weep pipe either :lala:.
The gearing is so much better with the changes made :thumb:.
All good :obscene-drinkingchug:.
The testers place is reassuringly shabby.
Upt.
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Snap 2112 I cut mine when I got home from work :thumb:
After trying to fit a dip beam bulb to my car, I had to give up hands are to big to get in the silly little whole they give you to work in :icon_batterup:
Even with the coolant header tank removed :violence-smack:
Oh and I taxed the bike as well
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Great minds etc...
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It's that time of blummin year innit?
Upt and mowey.
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We'll have to start posting pictures of our lawn mowers next :grin:
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lol lol
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bike tax was £121.00 …. Wow that’s gone up :crazy:
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Yes, sadly 'Aprils fools day' has brought some significant rises in tax, energy and water rate rises. I wonder who are the fools ?
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Yesterday afternoon I took my bike into the main dealer to have the valves checked and adjusted, I wanted the engine to be stone cold when they do the job.
I also supplied and air filter and new iridium plugs and asked that the mechanic check the plugs and if they are iridium already fitted leave them and give me back the new plugs. I read online that iridium was fitted as standard to the 2014 V-Strom 1000.
10am this morning I received a phone call from the dealer telling me that the mechanic found a slight amount of knottiness in the steering when turning lock to lock. He said it would cost £460inc VAT to replace the bearing and I would have to wait a week while they order them then fit. Strange price because that's the same as I am being charged for the valve check and adjust if necessary.
I told them to leave the bearing because I want my bike back so as to enjoy the nice weather, I'm already missing it today. I have never paid £920 all in one hit for work on my car including bearings, discs and pads. I'm sure I can find a garage to do the bearings cheaper on my bike.
Can anybody recommend a high quality bearing as I don't want to fit the same OEM one that only lasted 15,000 miles with no off road and a high quality bearing will probably cost less, though I would rather pay more if I have to for something that will last longer.
Good news is I won £400 on my premium bonds today. Money in, money out. That's life. :dl_hyperhysteria: :icon_wink: :thumb:
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That seems a bit of a crazy number for a headset bearing, even the OEM ones (which are good quality KOYO bearings) are only about £40 or £50 for the pair and it isn't what I'd call a huge job to replace them. At 15k I would want to check they didn't just need a clean and re-grease before I committed that kind of cheddar to a replacement. My OEMs lasted to 31k, although they were badgered when I removed them.
As for a replacement yourself, the factory fit ones are a good brand but they are ball bearings which will tend to make a notch at steering straight ahead, especially if they run dry.
I fitted these to mine, not super easy to get the races into the frame and getting the old race off the fork steerer was a sod.
https://huntersmotorcycles.co.uk/product/tapered-roller-steering-bearings-and-seals-kit-ab-22-1003-383
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I agree Plan A would be a clean and regrease. I haven't done this on my 650, but I have removed the fairing and forks and would reckon 2-3 hrs to do it.
Dealer prices are not cheap, but £460 ? :icon_no:
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I'm a fan of taper roller bearings and have fitted a few sets over the years. Some people say they can cause slight weaving, but I've never had any issues.
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Further to my last reference valve check. £456 inclusive, head gasket and 8 cylinder head cover washers replaced. The mechanic confirmed that the original factory fitted plugs are iridium so he checked them and put them back in and gave me back the new ones that I supplied.
He replaced the air filter with the new one I provided. I was told that the valves were within tolerance so he checked all fluids and gave the bike a general health check and put it back together. realistically the only thing done was to clean the plugs and replace the air filter so I expected absolutely no change to it's ride but, in 1st and 2nd gear at slow speed it definitely runs smoother, it's not just my imagination. I don't understand?
So was it money well spent? I think so even though that is a lot of money and I won't be able to eat for a month or two, I now have peace of mind and the bike is definitely running better, I even put the clock forward 1 hr when I got it back.
Rixington43, thank you for the link. My bike is 2014 and is not listed in the link but I'm sure the same company will be able to provide the right ones. Are these bearings the best I can buy or does anybody know of even better ones? Thank you for your answers in advance. :thumb:
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2014 is listed, their list is super confusing so there are 3 or 4 sections of DL1000.
I think All Balls are reckoned to be pretty decent but a taper roller will last far longer than a standard ball race either way. Otherwise you'll need to know the bearing size and then hunt the usual premium brands like Koyo, Skf, fag etc.
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Thank you again Rixington43, I'm going to order them now and if just a clean and re grease is all that is required then I'll keep them until they are needed. Nothing lasts forever. :thumb:
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No worries Doc, happy hunting.
If you don't have one already then I'd recommend adding this to your garage.
Makes the job much easier;
https://gbmotorcycleproducts.com/Suzuki-DL1000-v-strom-2002-2014-steering-stem-nut-socket/
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For reference, this was the state of mine at 31k.
Top was as smooth as a babies bottom, bottom on the other hand was considerably rougher than the bench of a careless welder 🤣.
I reckon it took half a day to do the switch out from start to finish having never done the job before. Our ratio is about 2 brews per hour as well 😜.
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On my 2014 model I'm still in the original head bearings at 46k miles. I clean and grease every few years.
Also in my opinion there's no need to replace the rocker cover gaskets and washers at 15k, I've had mine off twice now and till on the original 's and will go one more time before replacement.
I've taken to replacing the centre cylinder spark plugs every valve check as there a pig to get to do while I'm in there I might as well but the side plugs I replace every other check as if the bikes runs funny I can change them in minutes.
I think you should looking for another mechanic Doc!
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Doc if it's not too late & you've already ordered them then I've had this information on record for a while now. :thumb:
Steering head (DL650 & DL1000 all years):
Size: 30x55x17mm - 2 needed
Suzuki #: 09267-30010
Common #: None
Seal #: 51644-12C00 - 2 needed
The OEM steering ball bearings may be replaced by tapered roller bearings no. 32006 (2 pcs.), if you wish to go this way.
You will pay a bit more than Rixingtons suggestion if you go with a 'named' make like KOYO, SKF or Timken but they will last. :icon_wink:
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My new internal sun visor arrived for my HJC 90s helmet. It took longer to unpack than it did to fit! An absolute doddle to remove & install, simply pull it out of the retaining clip at each end then click it back in place - simples :thumb:
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As it was such a nice day (for early April and Northumberland) the Mrs decided we needed to go to Alnwick Gardens (https://www.alnwickgarden.com/). It's been a while since we've been so it was a great idea. We had a nice potter around the gardens and they have changed a lot since our last visit. Loads of new water features, extra paths and it's just a nice, relaxing place to visit at any time of the year. The added bonus this time was we saw Lady Jane Percy, the Duchess of Northumberland who was the driving force behind the gardens redevelopment. It was nice to see her taking an active role and still keeping an eye on things.
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Alnwick Gardens, Got to love it.
As for er ladyship, she was probably after a piece of rough. She could have saved some time and just visited me!
:shrug:
Don't know if you are aware fella but there is a new cafe worth checking out at Bamburgh, "The Walled Garden". It's at the top of the grass triangle on the right near to the "Grace Darling Museum".
Upt.
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I've not been yet, but I have heard of it as the Sister-in-law stayed up in Bamburgh a couple of weeks ago. That's another cafe to go into the memory banks :thumb:
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Today, it was up at the crack of 09:00, a quick brekkie, bags packed and then heading West for a few days in the beautiful Portpatrick. The joys of bien retired - chase the sun when you can !
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Been tidying my garage, I've got quite a bit of timber and steel that I've acquired over the last 50 years that 'will come in' seeing some of it hasn't moved for the last 30 years, decided it needed thinning out.....it's really hard, like selling one of your children. I've been brutal though and got rid of a fair bit.
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As night follows day next week you'll be saying a piece of metal such n such a size is just what I need .......
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@cooltshirt..... I've no doubt about it.
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I went to visit my brother today. Some might know He is in a dementia ward in a home.
I was on my own today as my sister in law and niece usuals meet me there, but it is my nieces birthday today so they had other plans.
So I could spend quality time with him. Not that he knows who I am anymore 🙁 it is so sad to see him like this as he was always so active always a keen fisherman and a walker.
He lost the bottom half of his leg through gangrene which started from a small cut on his toe !! Bought on from badly controlled diabetes.
While feeding my brother today a new man in the home came up to me and asked excuse me do you know where my wife is ? I replied sit down here next to me and spoke to him and got to know him a little bit he was so thankful that someone had taken the time to talk to him, I felt so sad that he was going round to most people asking the same question.
The staff in the home are absolutely amazing and work tirelessly to look after everyone in the home.
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Not today but last Tuesday. I was riding M25 onto the M3 south and wondering why the car in front was crwling along in the middle lane. I rode past and accelerated to 65ish when I saw the tall yellow camera post and just beyond it a large and clear national speed limit sign. Yes - looks like I was speeding by about 15MPH. I have no recollection of any speed limit sign so I'll have to wait for a nasty letter to find out. On the bright side, nobody died or was even injured. :dl_smiley_banghead:
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Don't know that bit of road. May have been an avearge speed camera...in which case you might be OK ? :shrug:
Also, FYI, they recently updated the cameras on a timed stretch near me with those little yellow front facing cameras.... :grin: Which don't catch bikes. Though if your speeding is regular or over the top I am sure they would identify you further down the road, assuming they can be bothered.
You can bet this is one area that is NOT subject to cuts in the workforce though :GRR:
Ho hum
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Today I got back from a fabulous break in the beautiful Portpatrick. The view from our hotel room over the vilage was quite spectacular. You could see the Isle of Man and Ireland from our bedroom !
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Stunning views glad you both had a great break :thumb:
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It was a cracker and most importantly the Mrs loved it!
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I had a very entertaining afternoon with the grandkids. We went to the pictures, I was corrected on that, apparently it's the cinema now & they don't play the National Anthem at the end any more either. Who knew? :shrug:
We went to watch 'A Minecraft Movie'.
I didn't know what to expect & still not sure what I watched, but I was entertained!
There is a certain amount of audience 'participation', just a bit of shouting out & some clapping. You needed to know where & when, apparently my participation/laughing was all in the wrong places? Little bits of Tom & Jerry & Looney Tunes, Wile E. Coyote type of stuff, which amused me .... but only me! ☺️
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Not today but last night I had a nice ride across Dartmoor to Plymouth where I saw Cinderella, a ballet. It was brilliant and amusing too. There was a live orchestra and I'm sure the musicians are very talented but I didn't like what they were playing very much. Still, the reason I went was to watch and enjoy but listening and enjoying would have been a bonus too.
I love ballet and have been lucky enough to watch in Moscow and St Petersburg. I look forward to visiting another soon.
The ride home was uneventful but I used the A38/30 because it was cold and I wasn't wearing my warmest kit and also the wildlife on the moor doesn't wear dayglow and I was in a rush to get home. :thumb:
Today consisted of washing bedding and housework before an apointment at the hospital then going for a ride for a couple of hours on the bike. I'll ride again tomorrow, the last day of forecasted sunshine then wash the bike when I get home. Mmmm, I love retirement. :) :auto-dirtbike:
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I’m up north, in Lincolnshire (north to me anyway) looking after the four Grandkids.
Left Somerset on Monday, picked up two in Devon, and then drove up to Lincolnshire.
Took them to the Kinema in the Woods, Woodall Spa yesterday to watch Dogman. Great place to watch a film…. I was also corrected when I call it the pictures.🤷♂️ Only about 20 seats in the room.
Another few hours in the park and a BBQ today, before heading back south tomorrow….. 350 miles by the time I’ve dropped two back in Devon and driven up to North Somerset. Traffic on a Saturday during the Easter holidays?😱
I love getting them all together, but how do I cut down on food costs?.…. they’re bottomless pits.😂
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This week, I have been mostly considering avoirdupois. In that I am getting thicker in the middle. So much so that to get a jacket to go around my belly I end up with an empty chest. 'Yes' I know it's just subsidence since what was once my chest has sunk into my waistband and 'no', underpinning is not the solution. At the end of my second week of reducing carbs I woke up this morning dreaming of a nice slice of bread and jam. The thought has lingered all day so far. My grandson is staying over and he is scoffing biscuits, sandwiches pasta, pizza, chips, crisps etc. and I have to do the cooking and then pass it to him as I eat half potions of porridge made with oatmilk and sugarless other than a sprinkle of bluberries. Lunch is oftem scrambled eggs and mushrooms and a late meal of microwaved white fish with cabbage and carrots. Meanwhile I have to make and watch him eat beefburgers. My old mechanical scales might be unreliable Showed I had lost half a kilo so I bought a fancy digital job. When I stood on them they showed I was 1.5kg more than I was when I started the diet. Everytime I get on them they show a different weight within 2kg either side of 110kg. Must be something wrong with them as even the heartiest dump won't weigh 3kg.
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When I’m with the Grandkids I just eat what they have….. but in far less quantity.
4 skinny kids but a rounded Grandad.🙁
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Dave, I've given up trying to lose weight, or not gain any more, it's just about impossible!
I think our problem is we're not tall enough for our weight.
I think it will be easier to figure out how to & then increase the vertical distance between the plantar aspect & the vertex. :grin:
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Today it was shopping for a new broom (car...) for the mother-in-law! After a fairly painless search she quickly settled on a top of the range 4x4 Nissan Juke. It has everything she wants (heated leather seats, switchable four wheel drive, sunroof, cruise control etc, etc) and came in well under her budget. She's even got a decent P/X for her old car. All in all she's happy, the wife's happy and I'm in the good books for a change!
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On the brightside I called my House builings and contents insurer and had a moan about their renewal email. They said I paid £419 last year and so the £440 they want this year is not too much of an increase, I told the nice lady "I paid £370 last year" she checked it up and found someone in their car division had slapped an additional charge on my account in February but it was not shown why. I told her that "no charge was demanded in February and I don't insure my car with you"..... After a while she came back and said she couldn't see what was going on and offered me a deal at £377. I agreed, but also told her that in the 9 years since I first insured with them the price had risen 400% and yet my state pension has only gone up 60% and now I'm down to one slice of bread every two days (sob.....) I didn't mention the diet.
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Didn't you tell her about the dripping you have on the bread Dave?
Or would that have meant you're far better off than you were making out? :icon_wink:
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I had a very hefty day in the garden today, cut the grass front & rear, trimmed the wife's overgrown bush, trimmed a couple of branches off the fir tree at the corner of the drive which has increased the useable drive space by about 3 square meters! I then found a couple of large decorative stones which I moved to another bed. I can't remember them being that heavy when I put them there in the first place some 25 years ago. I'm cream crackered now...
P.S. The two fir trees you can see in the pictures were once living christmas trees in pots. We planted them out after christmas and both have thrived. There was a third one, but I tripped over it while cutting the grass and it snapped...
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You trimmed the wife's overgrown bush? That was surely worth a photo!
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lol lol
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Thank you - I'm here all week!
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2112, you "cut the grass?" lol
You ran over the moss and merely bothered the grass mate. :smirk:
Scarify the bleeder :)
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Noooo, the moss grows slower than grass, looks like grass from a distance and holds more carbon than grass. It's an Ecolawn and the future !
Actually, we did scarify it one year and got 24 black bags of moss out of the lawn. It looked terrible all year...
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An update on the "scales of injustice" issue. Problem solved. I read the instructions which said I must tap the scales and wait for them to show "0". After I did this the scales showed a consistent reading indicating a loss of 3 kg. I'm sure that's correct and now only another 20 kg to go to achieve the status of overweight.
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Platelet donation number 628. 🧛♂️😁
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Today, for the first time this year, we've hit our solar PV maxium output. We have a large 14.9kWp system, spread over three orientations (South, sadly the smallest array, East & West) and through three inverters (5kW East, 5kW West & 2kW South). Due to the angle of the roof we can only hit 11.5kW maximum, which has happened today. It's the earliest in the year we've done this since 2019 according to my Tesla app'.
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It's sure been a better year than 2024 so(lar) far.
Generated more than I used in March for the first time since installation.
Still getting my arse handed to me by my Dad and brother though, South facing arrays are cheating in my opinion 😉.
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It's the luck of the housing draw sadly. I did ask a feller who worked for a large house builder (Bellways) if they took into account the orientation of roofs when designing a new estate. The answer was, rather predictably, no - they just mazimise the use of the land they have.
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I spent the best part of 12hrs painting two newly plastered rooms whilst watching lovely motorcycling weather through the window :bawl:
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Yesterday, after a pretty demanding morning, I announced that I was going for a couple of hours ride and that I'd do some mowing when I returned.
Nope, I was "persuaded" that I should ride once I'd mown. Needless to say, it got later and later, and colder and colder. By the time I'd finished, it was far too late. Woke up to rain this morning 😭
A little perspective...
We have a small farm where we keep and breed horses. We work seven days per week, a large part of my work is looking after the farm. During the spring, it takes two whole days to mow the garden grass areas, sounds posh, it's not, and it's not fun when the ride on mower constantly breaks and I have to do it by hand. I'd love a small property, and a bike ride.
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Why not get a trial bike and play in the garden? It might be fun and something you can fit in more often. :thumb: :auto-dirtbike:
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We have a farm quad, and trust me, that's crossed my mind 😂
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Not a lot of people uninvolved in livestock farming realise the pressure of being there to tend to animals 24/7/365.
I used to farm mixed pigs/cattle /sheep and even the weekends when you did your morning rounds you knew you would have to be back later to check , so couldn't be off doing something.
Having said all that.....30 years now since I gave it up...still miss it .. :crazy:
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Yes, I can't see myself getting a "proper" job.
I'm looking forward to the summer when the spring growth slows, and I have a little more time to get out. Currently trying for 3 hours per week on the bike, which doesn't sound a lot, but it's always a real pleasure.
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Today, I decided to give my bike kit a bit of love as it was all looking a bit scruffy. The Oxford Mondial Textile's have been through the washing machine with a bit of Nikwax, boots dubbined, gloves treated with leather food and the lid given a good old clean. All looking good if a little bit damp at the moment. That should see me through to the first use of salt on the roads now.
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Took the Enfield out for a run to Manningtree and a visit to the tea wagon. Three or four power rangers with sportsbikes and a chilly wind off the Stour made for a less than social refreshment. I went home and got the 660 out. I did the same journey through the lanes and back and that was it for the day.
Before I took it out I polished the tank which was looking a bit poorly after getting rubbed with by jacket on the ride home Saturday, I stuck some lines of masking tape on it as a makeshift pad until a proper one is available from the dealer. Down to 107kg today. :smirk:
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Wow, 107kg impressive. I've just slipped into the 'error' threshold of the home scales... Tendonitis is the reason, I'm severely limited in what I can do (apart from eating) so the kg's have piled on. Left leg, about 3" above the achilies at the ankle, absolute agony! To make matters worse the bike triggers it with all the gear changing, bollocks. A new gym has opened locally so I'll pop in for a chat and check out the set up next week. Or buy a Goldwing DCT...
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Brockett,
Masking tape glue is not UV proof, the glue goes funny if left too long and is then a bugger to remove....3 layers of it ,at least , helps. The bottom layer is then deep enough not to be affected too much. :fix:
2112,
Have you thought about Chair Yoga ? :shrug:
https://plan.yoga-go.io/onboarding?branch-name=chair&link-id=go4chr&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&campaign_id=20483413677&adgroup_id=155629133191&ad_id=671179590149&utm_term=chair+yoga&matchtype=e&timer_reset=true&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAABucASoSJhj1CN05u8oLQI8BecGvn&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2ZfABhDBARIsAHFTxGxAdWlQ7H9mXbgreExOK2RJ9ikZ3RGpjiwJ0allShdFcLPlvuF7PHQaAgAdEALw_wcB
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I have to be honest and say no, never even heard of it? I'm back at the Doc's later on this week to see the Physioterrorist and we'll see what she says. It's been on and off for the last three years, and when it's 'on' it's crippling. The stretching excercises I've been given simply don't work and just aggravate the problem!
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I had a covid jab.
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A few days ago I rode into Exeter city centre, later on my way out of the city in very heavy traffic the driver of a big black 4x4 did something causing me to shake my head. Further down the road I was stopped at a traffic light turning right when this same 4x4 came down my inside and stopped.
The driver had his window down and shouted aggressively "Why were you shaking your head at me?" I would have liked to tell him but I couldn't remember. He shouted the same again but I couldn't remember so I told him, I shouted back "I can't remember, it's gone and I'm getting on with my ride, still, If you don't know already there is no point in me trying to educate you, your just a bad driver". The lights changed and I rode away.
It was only when I got home and thought about it that I remembered him on my inside but slightly behind as two lanes filtered into one. I stayed on the outside because once the traffic has zipped together I can then filter down the outside and pass about ten cars. 4X4 driver drove along side and tried to push me out so as I had to drop back and go behind him but all I had to do to rectify his stupidity was to filter (just before I would normally) down the outside then pass the cars ahead.
The point is, if I had been in my car my blood may have boiled a little and I may have got as angry as him but I wasn't, I just filtered through the traffic and was away from him. At the lights I turned right and after the very short confrontation I was soon rounding the big roundabout three times having fun, the memory of what had happened had completely gone. I had to sit down later with a cup of tea and think hard to remember.
This is one of the big positives of riding my bike, I don't usually have to worry about stupid, bad drivers for longer than it takes to ride around them, then they are history and forgotten already, my smile has come back and I'm happy again. :auto-dirtbike: :thumb:
Don't I go on and on :roll: :thumb:
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Yes.
:dl_ninite:
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Today, we popped out to our local garden centre to buy a new 'haircut' for Ed the head. As usual, we got a bit carried away and ended up spending over £200 on plants... Some of which can been seen out of our side window (used to be a nasty aluminium sliding door). We put the plants there as delivery drivers would often knock on the window, thinking it was a door. Looks like it's due a powerwash this year too.
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Yesterday: I took the Enfield 500 for a trot around and was a little surprised to see a car with an orange EU type front number plate turning a bend towards me on my side of the road. I stopped PDQ and just in time, the driver managed to swerve onto the correct side of the road. I think she was about to dish out some abuse when she realised that in UK the we drive on the left. If I had been on the Triumph I would have been travelling a good bit faster and things might have been very different.
Anyhow I popped into Orwell motorcycles in Ipswich and had a look at the Enfield Guerilla. I was offered a test ride and was very very impressed with it. So much so that we did a deal that will be a great replacement for the Classic 500.
And - the postman has just delivered a parcel from Pyramid for the Triumph.
105.8kg this morning
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Going well on the weight loss :thumb:
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Congratulations on the new bike Brockett, when do you collect it?
Is that a very heavy screen, hugger, or ready made pillion from Pyramid?
Maybe a bike lift?
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New bike will be delayed up to a fortnight due to a shortage of mechanics. The exact opposit of the Triumph dealership who had the bikes in the shop all prepared and ready to go that day! I went home, got the keys and documents, got insured and went back to shop and swapped bikes. The parcel is an infill that fits between the teeny tiny hugger and the sillyflap on the semi-detached number plate and a front extender. Pictures will follow when fitting is done.
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Fitted today in a falorn hope that the bike will not get as mucky.
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Today, myself & the Mrs have had a solid day in the garden trimming, tidying & planting. Sadly, it's been one of those days where you can hardly see where we've been but we've done a lot of work. I've taken a very invasive, evergreen climbing Hydrangea off the North side of my garage where it was becoming a pest. Those things are lively and you can nearly watch it grow, despite not getting any direct sunlight. Very achey now...
Tidy mudguard extension, the factory one is certainly on the short side.
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We spent the morning emptying the garden shed, sorting out anything to go to the skips and then putting everything else back tidily. that's now the shed, the loft and the garage all sorted.....for now, till we acuire another load of crap to be sorted in the future.
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A shed tidy is on the cards for next week. I have a set of racking that didn't fit in the garage to go into the shed, should tidy things up a bit.
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My garage is my shed, it just is.
I started today with a tidy garage but with a new intergrated dishwashing machine waiting to go in.
I no longer have the dishwasher in the garage but the garage looks like a North Korean missile exploded in there.
Pffffffftttttt.
I'll tidy it tomorrow.
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My next bike
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Is it just my screen ..or is the front wheel a different colour to the back....
Don't see that often............I think I like it :thumb:
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Nice Brockett :thumb: I think you are Right nigel s if you look closely the frame is two tone the light blue merge in to the black/ dark blue and if you look the top rim of the rear wheel is the light blue. I think I like it too :thumb:
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Great looking machine Brockett.
Looks like a lot of fun.
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I have put my spelling hat on and found another "R" so it's Guerrilla. I have always struggled with spelling. My disordered brain ... If I was a superhero I would be Captain Chaos. The opposite of the OCD that mean other people like orderly lines and neat rows. I have great difficulty remembering sequences or linear processes. I can just about manage the alphabet but sometimes have to start five letters back. Darts is a good game as I can look at a board devoid of sequence and still know where everything is.
Diet day 21
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Going well Brockett :thumb:
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I must say I'm very impressed Brockett and thank you so much for the tip-off regarding your new bike purchases.
As you always spend a small fortune at Pyramid Plastics with every new bike, I bought shares and made a bundle. :thumb:
Congratulations. :text-bravo:
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:text-goodpost: lol lol lol
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You are, as always, very welcome.
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TL making money out of a pyramid scheme? Grifter.
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Took two of the Grandkids to the Helicopter Museum (Weston-super-Mare) today.
Various military enactment clubs were there….. great day.👍
But still bikes involved…
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Today, it was an early start in the garden with a bout of weedkilling, then it was time to strim & cut the grass front and rear, trim some shrubs and then water the pot plants. Phew. While this was going on the car's been plugged in taking advantage of all this solar energy, another 160 miles of 'free' motoring has gone into the battery today. Nice.
P.S. if you've seen the news regarding the massive power outage in Portugal & Spain, my 'educated guess' is frequency drift leading to a cascade failure. The Spanish have never been good at sticking to 50hz and seem more paranoid in keeping the voltage in check. This is OK until you get a sudden increase or decrease in supply when at which point frequency can deteriorate rapidly. As soon as you get to 48.5hz (or 51.5hz) things start to happen automatically to 'protect' the network, at 47.5hz (or 52.5hz) circuit breakers start to open which can mean blackouts for some. This then cascades through the network causing frequency variations (both up and down) and more blackouts. We studied the Spanish grid for a client a few years ago, it's not as healthy as it should be an needs a LOT more battery storage to cope with events like this.
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Yes well... I am trying to lose a few pounds but golly a trip to the opticians and whooooosh! away went 400 of em.
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Only £400? Gone for a monocle, then?
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On Saturday, I dragged our little trailer out of the back of the garage (had to move Jen's bike, which she saw for the first time since last September and proves I haven't sold it lol )
We're away camping this weekend and we wanted Jen to have a bit of practice driving with the trailer just incase, mainly reversing it as she's never towed anything before. Neither had I until we bought it last autumn but I've used it a few times for tip runs and checking everything was OK after I'd replaced wheel bearings and general tidy up and grease what needs it ect.
She did manage to reverse bay park it after a couple of attempts, my daughter found it hilarious watching us be teacher and student, with things like "turn it the opposite way to start your turn" "now reverse the angle" "stop, don't drive into your own trailer" lol
It was a nice turn about as she likes to say she taught me to drive as I only passed my car test in 2020 and here I am showing her how to reverse a trailer. (In fact an old squady taught me to drive in a mk2 Land Rover while towing a boat when I 15, but we won't talk about that)
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The smaller the trailer, the more difficult it is to reverse. I learned trailer skills from having a jet-ski, all I could ever see for direction were the handlebars.
Now I tow a 16ft flatbed trailer 3-4 times per week.
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Scrapped it.
"To receive the full value, the vehicle must be complete and undamaged".
So matey slings a chain through the open doors, and once on, rests the bloody great Palfinger crane on it 🙄
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I can confirm a small trailer is worse than a large one for the reasons given . Up to a point. I used to have to reverse a 40 foot low loader with 11 high ( 12 sometimes if the route allowed and we didn't mind taking down the odd cable after a long hot day... got to keep 2112s mates in work :shock: ) square bales on it. This is with a bogey , so TWO pivots :dl_hyperhysteria: Sometimes the tractor would be NEXT to the trailer .
And sometimes some Dickwad in their lovely clean 4x4 ( not proper country folk..arghhh :icon_wink: ) would rock up down a single track expecting me to reverse up.
F and off was the usual reply. :grin:....get orf my laaaand ....etc :whistle:
Ho hum
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lol lol lol
I used to love a nice summer nights fault. It wasn't so much fun in January however...
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Today I am mostly doing the laundry and hoping my backside soon recovers from yestreday's 180 miles on a 660 Tridents seat over suffolk roads. :roll:
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Our little trailer is an Erde 122 with a hard top - I can see the hard top through the back window, and a soon as I get a tidy angle on to reverse I can see it nicely in the mirror and get a nice view to judge the car to trailer angle and adjust on the fly.
I find a bit of weight in the trailer make a difference, she had it empty and I had my stock of old oil bottles and old enduro tyres in there a couple of weeks back to practice - if plod had stopped me they would have thought I was going for a bit of fly tipping! lol
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Today, while busy gardening, I appear to have torn a muscle in the back of my right thigh. It made a horrible noise when I did it and it's as painful as you would imagine. Not happy...
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Ouch! Sympathy. :thumb:
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Cheers :thumb:
Sitting is OK, lying down is OK, standing is OK but transitioning between these is agony!
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I've been at my Daughter in laws looking after her dog while she has gone to Gretna Green to get married. I expect them home soon so I started to pack my suitcase in the bedroom. I stopped for a while to have a brew and when I went back the dog, a Sharpe called Dave, had brought most of his toys from his box in the lounge and put them next to my case lol lol lol. He's a clever dog but never done that before. I think he wants to come with me. :thumb:
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2112 Sorry you're in pain. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
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Cheers, most appreciated :thumb:
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Strewth 2112 hope you're in riding condition soon.
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Yesterday, I enjoyed murdering a large patch of very dense thistle whilst mowing.
I know they'll be back, but either way it's satisfying.
The last bit left to mow.
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2112, I think I just heard you yelp.
Or was it the Docs dog?
SD, you know they're all gods plants don't you?
Upt.
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Ouch 2112 hope you back on your feet soon 🤞
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So on the way to work this morning, I done my good deed for the day, there were some Geese in the middle of the road with there goslings, I put my hazards on to protect them and flashed the oncoming traffic to make them aware, I got out then noticed that one of the goslings was stuck in a drain, I managed to retrieve the poor little thing from the drain and carried it over to its waiting parents and siblings. I had thumbs up from the waiting vehicles.
Then followed the geese slowly with my hazards on until they reached a gateway to a field once I knew they were safe I carried on my journey to work, I was feeling pretty happy with myself :lala:
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Pictures
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Good work ASmith61, something to feel good about, and it didn't cost a penny.
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Brilliant :text-bravo:
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Thank goodness....Thunderbirds rescue!
:thumb:
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The photo of the Geese in the road reminded me of a trip to York, 9 years ago, when we saw these using a Pelican crossing.
I'm not kidding when I say they stood on the side of the road until the lights changed & the traffic stopped before they crossed the road! :icon_exclaim:
For those that know York, that's The Clifford Tower to the right.
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What have you done today? - part paid (a whole £10 to set up the bank transfer) for the Honda Hornet 1000 SP that I'm due to pick up next Thursday - yee haa!
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Is it a black one? :grin:
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Green, surely?
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Nah, got to be a yeller one -
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I think the SP version is only available in matt black.
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The photo of the Geese in the road reminded me of a trip to York, 9 years ago, when we saw these using a Pelican crossing.
I'm not kidding when I say they stood on the side of the road until the lights changed & the traffic stopped before they crossed the road! :icon_exclaim:
For those that know York, that's The Clifford Tower to the right.
Barbel Mick That is brilliant I would have loved to seen that :thumb:
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Yesterday 13:30 I ruptured my left Achilles Tendon by using the wrong foot to lift the bike on the centre stand.
Don't worry, the bike is fine.
Absolutely outstanding care from Bassetlaw Hospital, I arrived at 14:00 and I was home before 16:30.
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Last year I broke my foot while in Spain, it didn't take long to mend but I think tendon's take longer. Be patient and take it easy on it and do as the medics say would be my advice. Get well soon, the best bike season is just starting. :thumb:
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Mr.Power sir.
Bugger.
Blummin buggering bugger.
It's going to be a long summer.
Upt.
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TLP - that is most unfortunate. I hope you make the best possible recovery very soon.
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Damn TLP, sorry to hear that - get well soon.
P.S. your secret is now out that you use white nail varnish on Your toes...
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:lala: it's such a relief being "out".
Much worse things happen to others, I am in a very fortunate position not to have to worry about work and stuff.
It's a bugger, but realistically that's all.
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Hope it heals soon TL Power......
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We've just taken delivery of a double case (24 bottles) of wine from Naked Wines! We had a few vouchers, credits and a refund so the whole lot cost under £100 to the door - bargain :dance:
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Hmm. I could be in Northumberland in a couple of hours :auto-dirtbike: :grin:
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lol lol lol :obscene-drinkingchug:
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If there's one thing I'm not short of it's a little whine.
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Yesterday 13:30 I ruptured my left Achilles Tendon by using the wrong foot to lift the bike on the centre stand.
Don't worry, the bike is fine.
Absolutely outstanding care from Bassetlaw Hospital, I arrived at 14:00 and I was home before 16:30.
Oh no TLP hope you heal soon mate all the best, as you say you don’t need to worry about work :thumb:
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Damn hope you're up and "running" again quickly!!
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Er, bugger.
Best of luck for a speedy recovery, injuries suck double in summer.
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They do indeed. Especially when you've just performed a cunning conversion to the ThunderBastard and it needs proper road testing.
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Today, we got the Kia EV9 back from bodywork repairs following the Mrs scratching it in a car park I explicitly told her not to go into as she would definitely scratch the car... It's awful when you are often right, isn't it? So, Lookers Kia in Newcastle said they's help us out, then they decided they wouldn't. Twats. It's been a delay but it's fixed at last. £480.00 later and it's as good as new....
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While loading a lorry this afternoon, my phone fell out of my shorts pocket and I run over the fucker with the forklift :violence-smack:
Smashed to pieces :icon_batterup:
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I don't know whether we shouldn't trust you with mobile phones or fork lifts? :roll: :thumb:
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lol the wife agrees with you !!
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After 9 years of mowing rocks, boulders, bricks, cables, rope, empty paint tins, and various other hidden "gems" around our farm, I finally decided that there can't possibly be any more hidden surprises left by the previous farm owner, and I've changed the three abused and battered blades on my tractor mower. The old ones came off surprisingly easily once I'd put my Parkside 1/2" impact wrench on the bolts.
Apart from getting a better mulch when cutting, it'll actually save a little in tractor diesel because the mower won't get so bogged down.
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I went for a ride today on the clean, dry roads, only 177 miles but in the most beautiful place on earth. I went to Exmoor, the Doone Valley, Lynton, Lynmouth and lots of places in between.
I have a hospital appointment at 14:00 tomorrow so a short ride in the morning then another one late afternoon, wonderful. I'm contemplating a ride to Wales at the weekend with an overnight stop in a B&B. Retirement is better than I expected :thumb:
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+1 for retirement :thumb:
I'm getting into the 'up at the crack of 10:00' lark, a bit of work in the garden, water some plants, a bit of lunch, maybe a run in the car or out on the bike etc, etc. It's definitely better than going to work !
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MOT today on my car. passed with flying colours with no Advisory’s 👍
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Rescued a poorly hedgehog from the garden. Poor thing was struggling and just flopped down not moving. Walked to the nearest vet 5 mins from my house but they said although they're supposed to take it in, they wouldn't be able to look after it and sent me to the next vets which was another 15mins walk. These were happy to take it. Fingers crossed it makes a recovery.
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Good on you sir. Lets hope the poor thing makes a full recovery 🤞🤞
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Hate to say it but it's been too dry and there's not enough slug and worm activity near the surface so hedghogs are starving. If that's not bad enough kind people try to feed them with bread and milk and being extremely laxtose intollerant they often die. Where I live the clear skies have given us warmer days but much colder nights the night time temperatures are colder by an average of 2 degrees.
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Correct Brocket. If you do have Hedgehogs come into your garden, just feed cat food & water. (you can buy Hedgehog food from pet stores but it's more expensive!)
I put it into a box I made with a Hedgehog sized opening so cats/foxes can't get access to the food.
Don't feed too much, you don't want them getting reliant on 'easy' food.
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How ironic can you be with one head?
"Don't feed too much, you don't want them getting reliant on 'easy' food."
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Collected my new wheels.
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Can you get a Givi Airflow for that? Screen looks rubbish.
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A bit more work in the garden and a fern & hoster section beside the garage. Doesn't look much but it's been a surprising amount of work.
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My hogs love the birds peanuts. Mental for em.
Three of the spiny buggers last night.
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Just got back from seeing Peter Kay at the O2 London (Christmas present from the wife) absolutely brilliant show we laughed until we cried :thumb:
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Shabby today following an afternoon out in the toon celebrating my mates birthday. It was absolutely heaving as it was sunny & Kylie was on at the arena.
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My son came to mine to have an oil change on his 02 600 Fazer. There's no space at his place and it's not a pavement job. What a pain though. The sump plug is masked by the frame tube so there's no room for a torque wrench fit enough for 43 NM and the Filter is hiding behind the header pipes. Fortunately I have a suitable filter wrench but it only just clamped on. Then when the filter came undone the wrench decided it would rather stay on the filter and of course the headers fence the filter in a cell until the filter wrench can be gently tapped off it. Made for easy servicing Nah! the bloody opposite.
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We ordered some box canvases (canvi ?) to be made up from pictures we took in New Zealand earlier this year. They arrived today and went straight up on the walls. Very happy with the results -
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The one furthest away in the picture needs to be lifted 1/8" on the right. :). Very nice pictures and better to put your own art and memories on the wall than someone else's. :thumb:
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Cheers, I ordered four but pictures of the other two won't upload onto this site? Odd.
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Today, I've been to pick my Euro's up for a forthcoming holiday in Madeira. After shopping around and as usual, Ramsdens offered the best price for £500 Sterling to Euro. We were going to go for a week but the second week was only £350 for the two of us, making a fortnight a no-brainer. Getting excited :sunny:
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Bags packed, giddy with excitement now :sunny:
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Wishing you a great time 2112
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Cheers :thumb:
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Hope you have a great holiday Mr & Mrs 2112
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Thank you very much :thumb:
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See you all in two weeks time :dance:
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Enjoy. :dance:
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Today Deb & myself caught a bus to another village a few miles up the road as there was a Transport Festival happening. Although a look at the cars & bikes would be part of the visit, the main attraction was that the Lancaster was going to fly over.
We got there in plenty of time to have a wander round & see the vehicles before the Lancaster was due. Once the time came we found a nice spot, away from the trees & buildings, with plenty of sky visible, to stand and await the arrival.
After about 20 minutes we got the word that the weather was too bad & the flight cancelled. :groan:
It was quite breezy & a few heavy showers so not surprised.
There were far too many folk wandering around the cars to get a decent photo or two but did manage some of a few bikes that were there.
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Had a trip to South London
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That Black Prince looks nice Mick.First time I saw one of those in the flesh was in about 1960 at Johnny Brittain’s bike shop in Bloxwich,Staffs.I used to visit every Saturday and help in the shop/garage/make tea/sweep up for the staff.I knew Johnny well as I worked for his dad Vic Brittain,a famous pre-war Norton works trials rider in his garage in Walsall,Staffs.
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@Brockett - come on, it ain't that bad doing an oil change on a Fazer 600 although I had plenty of practice having owned one for 10 years.
@Barbel Mick - was this the Rolleston on Dove Festival of Transport?
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Ian, yes it was in a good condition & it sounded lovely as it road past us when we were leaving. A bit ugly for me though. :)
Russ, yes it was mate. Not many bikes there to be honest, but quite a few nice cars, especially for a small village organised 'do'.
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Barbel Mick. Some nice AJS's in that picture. I know the Vincent is iconic but the black AJS in the picture looks very much the same as the bike my Dad taught me to ride on when I was a little boy and the bike seemed huge, that is the one I would most like to have a ride on. :thumb:
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Mick, a few from Derby Triumph owners (TOMCC) were there on a ride out
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Russ, might have been their bikes in the 4th photo? :)
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Doc, yes, all in nice condition ...... but the same can't be said for the road when they left. :whistle:
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That's why old bikes don't rust :lala:
Ho Hum
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So, 2112 is away, how about that party then?
lol
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Not so quick you rascal, I'm back and looking like a bronzed god !
We had a lovelly time in Madeira and were very taken by the place, good food, excellent wines, great tempretures and very friendly people who all spoke excellent English. It's the first time we've been anywhere for a fortnight and not wanted to come home by day 10 or 11 (with the exception of NZ). We even had a day trip to the little island of Porto Santo, which was stunning and didn't feel like part of Europe. They seem to have a festival every week and it's just a great place to go and visit.
Pic 1 - view from hotel balcony
Pic 2 - the 9kM beach at Porto Santo
Pic3 - there is a museum of electricity in Funchal that I had to go to - great fun!
Pic 4 - the round Hotel Pestana Villa Lido
Pic 5- how to store wine - from the ceiling!
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Picked up a set of load bars for my Erde trailer and fitted them with the roof box on the top.
If we're really struggling for space I can add the roof bag I bought ages ago to the top of the car.
I bought the trailer to fit in the larger tent, then the mrs bought a camping wardrobe, double camp chair, huge Inflatable chair for the little one, a massive double sleeping bag and packs for 3 weeks when were away for 5 nights.
We're away next weekend, but watch this space because I'm likely buying another large roof box by the time our August trip away comes and it'll live on the roof of my car. :crazy:
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Out on the Guerrilla this morning for the first time in four weeks. I went to Lings Ipswich aka Suffolk Triumph to swap the V7 ignition key for the one I accidently included in the sale of the V7 Special a few weeks ago. I also collected the tank pad that was not available until recently They even had it stored with my Reg number on it. That's customer care.
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Sometimes things happen which when I am telling the story even I find it hard to believe. But here goes anyway.
As previously posted, last week Tuesday 10th June I went to Glossop. I went with Steve and we visited his brother. We stayed in a Travelodge for a couple of nights and on the Wednesday 11th June his brother guided us to the Snake pass and a good trek around some of the dried up sections of a huge reservior but is was all good. We started the day with a visit to the Tesco Fuel station where at 10:20 I used the pay-pump-facility for 15.85 litres of E10 for £19.97. The screen at the pump showed no receipts could be printed and so, just to keep my fuel, costs for my records I took a photo of the screen. Tedious details but bear with me. Monday morning 16th June I got on the phone to Hitchcocks and ordered a rack and topbox for the Guerrilla and wow! they were delivered next morning (thank you Mr Postman). I took a peek at my online bank account and noticed that the payment for the fuel take last week had not been debited from my account. I looked again this morning and still not taken. I asked Steve who had Steve bought fuel at the same time in the next pump and he said that his account was debited the next day.
Is my bank being really slow?
Has the Pay-at-Pump transaction failed and I am now wanted by the police for a "drive off" offence
I tried calling Tesco via the number shown on Google maps for the Tesco fuel station at Glossop. Unfortunately their AI phone service hasno option for I'd like to talk to a real person about a non payment problem :icon_no: :icon_no: :icon_no:
I Googled tesco head office and phoned again and got the same AI . Artificial yes Intelligent No
I tried a customer service number and opted for ' I'd like to visit a store' and after only five minutes of waiting I got through to a real person. :happydance: I told him the story and he put me through to someone in the Glossop store. I explained again. After a reasonable wait the nice lady came back and said they had no incidents or petrol thefts and there accounts for that day were in balance. They suggested I phone my bank which I did. Nationwide have joined the AI revolution and I was asked to confirm my identity by entering the number which had, just then, been sent to me by text but without showing me a screen on which "enter the number" or anything else. I said the number but the AI was not content and I had to wait another ten minutes for real person to get on the line and ask me 20 questions before they would discuss my account. I was told there was no amount of £19.97 outstanding payment. However there is a failed transaction at 10.19 on the 11th of £19.97. However, that would not show on my account because it it something that didn't happen!
I ploughed my way back through the insanity of Tesco's AI customer lines and spoke to 'Elizabeth'. I explained the whole story. She spoke to her supervisor 'Sean' and she said I should forget about it. The £19.97 is a small amount. There is no means by which I could pay Tesco via their department. Even If I drove back to Glossop I could not pay a non existent bill. She did give me a reference number for the call
20 minutes later 'Spencer' phoned from Tesco in Glossop to reassure me that their system did not show me or anyone elase that day as a non payer. I should not worry about it as it's something in their system that was at fault.
But I do worry because I am :old: a bit :crazy: and a bit :icon_crutch:
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This morning I installed the rack and put the topbox on. Last week I installed a "Loobman" and gave it a test run and so far it hasn't thrown itself into the rear sprocket. Probably just a matter of time. It was originally on the 390 KTM. I have another in prep that was once on a K9 ( was that 2016 when we all went to that dire campsite near "Red Post" .
I know you'd all prefer to see the K9 again....
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Your honesty is an example to us all ........ in a similar situation I would have tried to sort it out as well. But I would have given up long before you did.
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Brockett - send me the £19.97 mate and I'll take care of it for you. That guilt could eat you up.
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Tonight I fitted a Blink, 5 camera system & doorbell for my terminally ill mate. He's starting to get very unstable on his feet (he can barely walk a yard these days) and his voice is failing very quickly. His partner likes the idea of being able to check on her phone if he's OK while she's at work. And she can answer the doorbell too. They are starting to get little bits of help from the NHS, but it's slow and a bit sporadic. A riser armchair is due to arrive this week which will be a big help. It's hard to watch him just fade away and very disappointingly, a lot of his other mates & family have stopped coming to visit him. Sad...
Here's a picture of us in much better times, Alec is on the left and we've just won the Wansbeck Pool League Doubles knock out championship and I've won the singles championship with Alec coming runner up. Happy & hairy days.
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It's sad that friends and family drop away, I guess it is hard for them too and easier to cry from afar rather than break down in front of him.
When I was sixteen I and the family visited my Uncle John at home. He had been brought home from the hospital so as to die there rather than hospital.
I seemed to be the only one who didn't know this at the time. My beloved uncle lay on his bed in the parlour where I last held his hand and spoke to him, I then went to the kitchen to be alone and get my thoughts because I was confused. My dad came into the kitchen where I asked "When is Uncle John going to get better?" and was told that he wasn't and had been brought home to die, soon.
To this day I regret it but I went outside alone and broke down, it really did break my heart and I didn't stop crying for ages. When I did stop I couldn't go back in the parlour and say goodbye, I was week. One thing I do know is that my Uncle knew I loved him but I'm so sorry I let him down at the end.
He and my Dad also gave me a love of motorbikes from a very young age, the way I road scared my Dad but my Uncle told Dad that I was going to be the next Agostini.
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I very much doubt your uncle thought that you let him down. If you had stood next to him until the end he would not have lasted any longer. When my time comes I'll not want anyone else there. I feel that I will need to be able to concentrate on my thoughts and not be distracted by someone being close.
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Strange it is that today marks 29 years since my very best friend passed away. For his last few months I used to go to his house on my way to work and make him a breakfast. It was always two eggs on two toast and two cups of tea "freshly drawn water" he would call out. He had dementia due to having multiple conditions caused by AIDS. He was a good fisherman and a keen motorcyclist and he was tough as nails. He was 49. He was taken to Hospital and died three days later. He never once complained but the day before his last my son and I visited him and he turned to my son and struggling to speak, told him to take great care so you don't get this ............. condition.
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MilozFolly very generous offer but if I pass my guilt to you I would feel more guilty about that.
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Ref the Glossop fuel incident Brockett.
Couldn't see any grainy CCTV wanted posters of you had been put up this morning when I was filling the car.
Think you might have got away with it.
Wish I'd asked which pump you used now, might have got lucky myself :grin:
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The brother of my riding pal Steve lives in Glossop and that is why we were there (visiting) . Steve relayed the story to his brother and he said it happened to him. Some while ago he filled up his Jeep thing with diesel via a Pay-At-Pump at that same fuel station and he wasn't charged. He also went to them a few days later and they said their internet failed and the transaction did not complete. But not to worry about it - "have it on us".
:shrug:
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Trident 660 - A nice 112 mile run around the block to Billingford for Friday Bike night at the Horseshoes pub. Sitting outside with a very tasty cheeseburger and chips with a large coffee all for £9. Some nice bikes and a good natter. On the way home I stopped to take a snap of the bike by the water tower when a civi' low loader came past with a huge tank ( you know tracks and big a gun). I hadn't got the phone going so I missed it. Never mind, here's the 660 at the water tower at 8.30pm. I like to have my bikes in the picture with the water tower but that bush is geting in the way now.
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That 660 looks like great fun!
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No it isn't.
The seat is too slim and slopes at the front.
Spend all my time forcing my legs to push me back up to a normal position. That is not made easy by the footrests being a little too far back
The Gear lever is too close to the footrest and finding 1st gear can be tricky. Daytona boots are size 10. Push the pedal down as far as I can and it refused to select the gear. Although it's not in gear I have to reselect neutral and then try for first again. No way to make friends when at Traffic lights.
30 minutes into a ride and the seat hurts, not just uncomfortable I mean painful. Another 30 minutes and I get pains in the legs and after another 30 minutes I have to stop and get off, sometimes in agony, with cramp in the thighs. (they take it in turns).
The handle bars are a little too low and are killing my shoulders. If I go for a seat mod it will be higher and I'll need another 40/50 mm risers to get the bars back in range. I have 800 miles on it and I am planning to trade it back to Triumph for something rideable.
The Guerrilla is a better ride.
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Jeeeeeeez, well, if nothing else, it looks fun.......
That's a real shame, and I fully sympathise, my ZZR induced shoulder pains are why I bought a V-Strom.
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Today, the Mrs and myself had tickets for Blagdon Hall's open day in aid of St Oswalds Hospice. It's very rarely open to the public these days and they own a LOT of land in the area (Northumberlandia is on their land and was created as part of a massive Banks open cast development, now filled in - https://www.northumberlandia.com/). As a teenager I used to frequent the estate a fair bit, as my friend Alan lived at the Old Dairy and we would fly around some of the tracks on motocross bikes & the like. Sadly, despite making a fortune from opencast mining at three locations, the grounds have been allowed to slip somewhat from their glory days. It was still nice to walk around the place, but I remember when all the grass looked like a putting green and there was never a weed in sight. Even the fishing lake was choked up with weeds. Some classic cars and scooters on display as well as a very noisey drum ensemble. The Mrs enjoyed herself which was the main thing and we missed the rain too.
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Visited Guzzi Day at the Haynes museum.
(https://I.ibb.co/JFR2VQBJ/FB-IMG-1750598431831.jpg) (https://ibb.co/BKVjbNzM)
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Nice, not many Mille GT's left in the UK :thumb:
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That Ford Cortina is in my opinion one of the prettiest cars ever made and the one I drove age 16 was a 2Lt XL estate (If I remember correctly) went like stink and was very comfortable. :thumb:
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My dad very briefly had a Cortina Mk3 2.0 GXL in bright green. I loved that car but it was a bit too thirsty for my dad and he did a deal to get his old Hilman Imp back!
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My second car was a mark 3 Cortina 2000 GT in red, twin head lights and high backed bucket seats, what a great car. The main problem was the prop shafts weren't up to much (or maybe it was my young enthusiastic driving) went through 3 of them in the time I owned the car. :lala:
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This morning I had my second meeting with an Orthopedic Consultant. It would seem that my ruptured Achilles Tendon is healing nicely, the Simmonds-Thomson test showed a significant imporovement.
I should have just another five weeks in the Vacoped Boot. :lala:
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Today, it's bags packed and off to Morpeth Station to catch the rickety little train to Carlisle. We're having a night away as it's the lead in to our wedding anniversary on Saturday (the Mrs likes a week's fuss...). Fifteen happy years this year, in case you were wondering, but we'll have been married for twenty eight...
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So, as seems to be the norm for retired folks, we visited a little garden just outside Morpeth today. It's a place called 'Bide-a-Wee' and it's at Stanton (https://www.bideawee.co.uk/) and it's a little gem of a place. It's set in an old quarry with footpaths darting off in all directions, some very well hidden. There is a little unmanned tea room with cake & biscuits operating entirely on honesty - a rare thing these days. It has it's own nursery with a vast range of plants, all very well priced. Worth a look if you are passing as it's only 15 minuets off the A1.
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Beautiful place, wonder what type of quarry it was?
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Sandstone :thumb:
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Thursday.
My first solo "big dog walk" since May11th. I walked just under a mile and a half, I'm still in the Vacoped boot but without the extreme locked plantar flexion position. To say I was well chuffed would be a huge understatement.
I have another seven days in the boot 24hrs (I still have to sleep in it) and then I am allowed a normal shoe around the house. Two weeks after that I'm boot free and should be OK to drive (left tendon both cars manual). I then need to build up my left lower leg and ankle as the atrophy is quite alarming. I should be back on two wheels later in the year. :auto-dirtbike:
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Nice to hear you're on the mend :thumb:
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Today I installed a TV aerial for my cousin. Predictably, the original chimney bracket fell to pieces so I had to fit a new one of those too. Then I noticed the coaxial cable had rubbed through in several places, so that got replaced in it's entirety. After a whole lot more work than we set out to do, he now has a cracking picture and digital TV for the first time if over 5 years. Mind, I used to think nothing of working on a two storey house off a Henwalk, it's a lot harder than I remember it was... Pass the Ralgex love.
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Today I received clutch and brake levers from Mzungu of this site, a very nice man to deal with and I could not have been happier with the deal.
So, It took me half an hour to fit them including getting the tools out and putting them away. It would have taken less time if not for my stupidity, I was struggling to remove the mounting pin on the brake because the cables were in the way. I paused and looked closely and saw there was only a allen key bolt to loosen to swivel the cables out of the way :roll:, removed the pin and soon after the job was done.
Obviously I had to go for a ride to test and adjust them, lovely day and great ride. The clutch lever needed a small adjustment 2 min and now they are perfect thanks again Mzungu. :thumb:
I would recommend adjustable, folding levers to everyone now I have tried them, they look better and fit better. I'm out all day tomorrow to give them a longer test. :)
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Today, we got the big Kia back after it went in for a bit of warranty work (LHS mirror actuator fault, known issue) and a recall (update the BMS software on the 800V drive battery). Having A/C is one thing, having chilled seats in this heat is quite something else :thumb:
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Today I found out why my Central Heating RCD was tripping out. A blummin leakin zone valve innit. Pffffffftttttt.
Upt.
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Better to find out about central heating issues in the summer rather than January...
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So today it was time to address the gatepost (the one the gate hangs from) as it's been creeping forward, causing the gate to catch on the driveway. I've adjusted the gate several times but noticed the post was leaning over slightly. My cunning plan was to attach a stainless steel wire to an eye bolt drilled through the post, on to a turnbuckle and then attach the turnbuckle to a fibre sling around a large Copper Beech tree. We'd used the technique in the past for temporary repairs on the Electricity network so I knew it would work on a smaller scale. Using my former Overhead Linesman skills all was going well, with the Mrs roped in to monitor the spirit level. Sadly, just as we were approaching vertical a very loud 'crack' rang out - hadn't the piggin' post snapped just bellow ground level. Bugger, all that time and effort wasted ! So the search begins for a fencing contractor who can install a new 8" x 8" x 8' post.
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Dig the old post out, drop new post in with a bag or to of post concrete, nail a couple or three bits of 2x1" wood to keep it strait then pour water into the concrete. The wife could do it while you go for a ride, it's only an 8' post. Easy.
You will probably save a fortune too, a bunch of carnations only cost a couple of quid in Lidl. :thumb:
Your welcome. :smirk:
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I did 45 x 8 and 9 foot posts in 2020. I figured what with the Pandemic it'd pass the time.
It did too.
Upt.
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Dug my garlic up today. Good crop of about 60 bulbs. The garage smells blummin lovely.
Planted the late Luz de Otono beans and some spring onions.
It was a little warm!
Upt.
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Illuminating, you could say.......... lol
I'll get my coat. :roll:
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Cases packed & it's off to Colmar for a week :thumb:
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Everything sorted and family SUV fully serviced and ready for 3.5 weeks EU trip. Notts, to South of Spain, to Lisbon, back through the Picos, and home again.
Sun, and beaches.
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Said Goodbye to my brother today.
After being in a Dementia/Alzheimers home for the last 3 years, he is finally not suffering any more.
Even though the home did their best for him, it was very hard to see him like that. We gave him a good send off today with lots of his family and friends there to celebrate his life and share our memories.
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Tough day mate.
RIP Ray. Now at peace.
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That's sad to read, RIP Ray.
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Sorry for your loss Smithy.
I share your view that there's no pain for him now which is a real blessing, your own pain will hopefully be replaced with sweet loving memories.
R.I.P. Ray and Gods speed.
Upt.
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Sorry to hear that .
Hard I know , but try to keep your head up .
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Sorry to hear that Smithy. Thought to you and your family at this time.
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Sorry to hear that Smithy, as you know, the pain never goes away but it gets easier. The fond memories will never go away either but they just get better.
I call them "Heaven moments" when I think of lost love ones and smile especially when I share that smile. :thumb:
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Sincere condolences to you Mr S.
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Sorry to hear that you have lost your brother.
Such cruel illnesses.
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Very sad news, always tough to take, but he's in a better place now and no longer suffering. Rest in peace.
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Gardening Induced Riding Deficiency Syndrome set in. Yes I've got a bad case of the GIRDS. So far today, the harvest includes apples, rhubarb, beetroot, spring onions, epicure and French beans. There's more to follow.
Pffffffftttttt.
Upt and pickin.
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Huh...You learn something new every day..I thought epicure was a Victorian disease :shrug:
Ho Hum
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Victorian disease? No, it's when you get your feet pampered.....
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Well, it's been a struggle but we successfully got home from our week in Colmar. Today's 02:45 alarm was a struggle, as was enduring the rather wayward driving of our taxi driver on the way to the airport. He gave the impression it was a gale force wind but there was none, very odd and it's the first time I've ever felt motion sickness in a car? The misery continued when Sleasy Jet held us to ransome for £100 to take both bags home with, despite us having paid for two bags in both directions. A sharp phone call on Monday to sort that one out will follow. We arrived on time in Edinburgh, jumped on the tram and immediately attracted the local quaterwit who was pissed as a fart at eight o'clock in the morning - deep joy. He got off at the same stop as us too, wanker. On to the trains, none seemed to stop at Morpeth, which is unusual because loads do. However, today for some reason none of the LNER trains were stopping so we had to get a Lumo train. Now these are fine but trying to get a coffee was impossible as the restaurant car only opens after Newcastle. Anyhow, we got to Morpeth, taxi booked and we waited and waited and... No taxi. Gave them a ring and 'it'll be with you in 5 mins'. OK, no problem, 15 minuets late is not the end of the world. 10 minuets later the taxi driver rings and says she'll be about 30 to 40 minuets as she's in Hexham! Getting a bit pissed off now so we stomped into Morpeth town centre to get a local taxi home.
However, Colmar is a beautiful town and we had day trips to Mulhouse & Strasbourg which is even more stunning. Pic's of Colmar below -
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Pictures from the motor museum at Mulhouse, which is massive by the way and well worth a visit -
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And last but not least some pictures from Strasbourg -
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Beautiful pictures 2112 looked liked you had a lovely holiday.
Shame you had such a problem once you got back to this country :crazy:
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Sadly, when you travel abroad you realise just how crap it is here!
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We went to Jimmys Farm & Wildlife Park in Ipswich today.
It is in huge surroundings so lots and lots of walking (which really gave my knee a good workout) we had a very good day here and here are a few pictures of some of the Animals.
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More Animals
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Sorry about the quality of these pictures, they were taken on my phone.
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Really hard to get pictures of the brown bears as they were hiding in the woods lol
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I rode to and visited Dartmoor zoo yesterday, it was nowhere near as good. It was hot and most of the animals were sleeping in the shade somewhere out of sight, I don't blame them, the entry ticket is valid for a year so I'll go back in the winter. :) :thumb:
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We've been watching Jimmy's Zoo on the telly, it's on the 'to do' list :thumb:
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Thanks fellas, nice piccies.
I've ridden through those areas 2112 but never stopped, I will next time.
That isn't all the bears do in the woods either.
Thanks again.
Upt.
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I'm not sure how much 'fun' it would be to ride through Mulhouse & Strasbourg to get to the interesting parts ? It was quite busy with traffic and they have tram rails to dodge for added difficulty. We saw a gaggle of british bikes parked up in Colmar one day -
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Depending on their 'group' relationship they could be a fleet, convoy, gang, parade or pack, apparently. :shrug:
Any other suggestions?
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I guess they could even be a chapter but maybe wrong type of bike. I would expect a parking ticket if I parked like that in a foreign country but then there is a car parked right across the pavement further up the road. :thumb:
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I remember trying to find a free parking space in Pisa, I found a space next to a scooter but signs seemed to suggest you'd be strung up if you dared to park.
I asked a young lady carrying a helmet if parking was allowed.
Er reply, "It's Italy, it's a moto, of course".
The Europeans seem very relaxed where you park up on the "moto".
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Went into the garden to do a bit of light weeding and tidying.. .. .ended up digging out a massive shrub (no idea what, that's the wife's dept.) Butvit took bloody ages, root system spiderlike but thick down to the 'centre of the earth'
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They say a week is a long time in politics, well it turns out it's a long time in regular life too. My mate Alec, who I've mentioned on here before, had deteriorated significantly while we were away in France. His long term partner did not want to spoil our holiday, so we only found out what the full story was today. Basically, he was admitted to hospital late on Friday night (last week) with breathing difficulties & chest pains. He has had a full weeks course of intraveinous antibiotics which havent worked and the infection is still present. Due to his condition (Progresive Supranuclear Palsey) the consultant has decided to withdraw active treatmnet and he is now receiving end of life care at Wansbeck Hospital. We've been in today and I was shocked to see how much he's deteriorated, but he's still in this tired old shell of a body. It's hard, but I'll be back in to visit tomorrow - if he's still with us. His chest is really wheezy and he's obviously struggling to breathe. He's on some fairly hefty pain relief and some type of sedative to keep him calm. He's aware of people but just looks absolutely shattered. Just had to get this out there...
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Damn 2112 , a lot of bad news just recently, hope you and Asmith are coping well .
A few years ago I went through a bad 18 months when I went to a funeral every few months it seemed .
Not all old folk, some I grew up with. Hard , but you do get through it...
All the best.
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Cheers mate, I didn't want to drag the chirpy vibe of the forum down, I just needed to get it out there to make ME feel a bit better. Gloomy news for a sleepy Sunday. I'm just remembering the happy times we shared together.
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Yesterday - spur of the moment decision, Took my Grandson to Brands Hatch to watch BSB. The Brockett sun was hiding and there was good shower just before the main race. However the track dried and we had an umbrella each and stayed dry. He said it was the "best day out ever". So the Brockett hyperbole genes are secure !
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You're doing the right thing 2112.
It's not always easy to do the right thing but it's always right.
I hope you see him some more. Poor bugger.
Upt.
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2112 so sorry to to hear this. yes I remember you speaking of Alec before.
as others have said you are doing the right thing. Keep your visiting up and keep thinking of all the good times you have shared with your friend.
My thoughts are with you :thumb:
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Cheers mate, I was in yesterday and he's really struggling to breathe. They've discovered he's over producing a type of mucus found in the lungs (I was told what it was but it fell out of my mind before I'd even left the ward...) which is now starting to thicken. They've given him a twice daily injection which helps to break it up, but he can't really cough due to muscle wastage. So his lungs have a permanent 'sludge' in the bottom of them. I'll be back in again later on today as he seems to really perk up when he gets visitors.
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I've just got back from today's visit, they've changed his med's and upped his sedative portion. He's very sleepy (hardly surprising given the drugs he's on) but the change has helped him breathe a bit more easily. He looked very relaxed today and he kept up with the conversation quite well, before he drifted off for a snooze. His partner is an emotional wreck, but she's keeping going remarkably well considering.
Oh, as soon as I got home I attacked 2 x wasps nests with nest killing powder. The foam spray I tried earlier seemed to work OK but after a week or so they came back. The powder is (alledgedly) much better, although I seem to be wearing quite a lot of it...
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Today I've been around the house resetting clocks, resetting the plug in circuit breakers and putting the candles away after last nights 2 hour power cut. We had a bit of a 'disco' at one point with the power going on and off for about 5 minuets. All back on now but it affected 1,200 homes. My one of my former colleagues informs me it was a cable fault at the Primary Substation at Bedlington.
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It never got this far 2112, infact I can report we've had gas, water, internet and electricity for over two weeks now......it won't last......Storm Floris approach'eth.
Pffffffftttttt.
On the waspy front I can report the soapy peppermint oil mix did its job, they've buggered off to my plum trees.
Pffffffftttttt.
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Look after your plums !
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Not today but yesterday. We had my wife’s Nieces stay for a couple of Nights.
( 7 & 9 ) so we had to find things to Entertain/ wear them out lol
So we took them to Wingham Wildlife Park we had a really nice day ( but in fact we did not succeed in wearing them out girls out lol but myself and the wife were Knackered :dl_smiley_banghead: )
Here’s some pics
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More pics
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Having a long weekend. Been out for about 1.5hrs 2 mornings in a row on the scrambler.
A goodbye service on the Ninja, as well as removing a couple of bits :thumb:
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Today, we went up to Wooler and visited Ad Gefrin (the whisky distillery) for the Gaderung. It was an interesting event and our friends from Norfolk enjoyed it a lot. Great weather too.
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Took off for a weeks camping with the family.
Eveything and the kitchen sink packed.
Next year we need a bigger car, or another roof box for the car.
We were supposed to be on a boat stip to Skomer island but due to the winds and swell the all of today's trips were cancelled.
So we went shopping in st davids, spen a fortune on new toys for the 5yr old.
A quick walk down to the beach, couple of sandcastles and a paddle in the sea and wood fired pizza to be cooked from the onsite food hut.
Now cooking some welshcakes by the tent.
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The welsh cake mix ready to cook
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It's been a busy day so far, Victory booked in for it's MOT re-test on Friday and I've hung another picture we had made from our trip to NZ this year. I've put up in my back passage this morning... It's the biggest so far at 1000mm x 750mm and the image is still nice and clear. It's a place called the Bay of Islands taken from the beach at Russel.
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We also caught this on our camera's at 01:30 in the morning -
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2112 that is a great video and so clear 👍
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Got up the 2nd day running at Center Parcs, Woburn.
We got here Monday & haven't stopped since. Deb treated our kids (& partners) & the grandkids to a few days here to celebrate her 70th birthday.
It's great to see them having fun & really enjoying all the activities, but it's bloody hard work for us two old 'uns walking up & down & round & round to & from the activities.
Just two more days & we can get home for a well deserved rest! :)
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I envy you, what a wonderful, exhausting time you must have had. Bringing the generations together to make memories, that's what life is all about. :thumb:
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As our wharehouses are on a farm. Very quiet at work at the moment so I took the opportunity to catch some pictures (and a video but I cannot post a video 🤣) with my Drone of the Harvest.
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John Deere ( I think, in the pic )...just like their american cousins ..Harleys ..they have HUGE levers and pedals, even for tractors. My second favourite tractor .
After Massey Ferguson...of course... :grin:
Ho Hum
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These were taken 800 yards away so the drone was well out of my sight😂
So this afternoon or tomorrow they will be combining in the field right next to us so I will get better pictures as I will be able to see 😂 just got make sure iam clear of power lines etc.
And yes nigel s the tractor is a John deer & the combine is a Lexon
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Put a bit of Redex into my 20ish year old mower (which has has zero maintenance in that time) and blimey it was off - pulling me around the large weed patch I call a lawn with a new lease of life! Might consider some actual maintenance on it.... next year.
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It's amazing the abuse lawn mowers take and just keep on going. My mate used to work at a repair shop for lawn mowers, chainsaws etc. They once had a Briggs & Stratton mower come in with zero engine oil, not a single drop - and it was still running. It defied the laws of physics and with some fresh oil & petrol ran as sweet as a nut!
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Classic american aren't they Briggs, tolerances in feet and inches and all they need to run is more and more petrol.
The one on my Dad's ride on mower has a knackered overflow shut off on the carb and it ended up filling the entire sump with petrol, ran fine until it back blew a shed load of fire out of the oil filler. Fresh oil, yet more petrol, off she goes. Bit quieter with oil in mind :)
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I hated Briggs & Stratton engined kit when working at a tool hire firm. Always refusing to start or run properly. Whereas the Honda engined stuff - well, Honda. Never a moment's bother.
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I have been fighting the brambles in the garden. Well over 10 feet tall and harbouring a long held malice towards humanity. They stab and scratch at every opportunity. Very satisfying to poke them into the Spear and Jackson cruncher and reduce the spiteful invaders into mush for the garden waste bin. After a few hours I estimate that there is only another 95% of the garden to go. :groan:
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+1 Honda gardening kit.
The brush cutter is a great piece of kit and the mower just keeps mowin.
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When I cleared some brambles I found an old oil drum that is a little weather worn.
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Today, I am recovering from yesterday - a stag do in York. My mate Billy's son Chris is getting married in October so we were invited along as the 'old fart' contingent. Poor Christopher was well catered for by his best man and was obliged to wear a full Sunderland football strip (the unbearable shame) complete with football boots, goalkeepers gloves and a rugby scrum cap. We had a good day out but by about 4PM it had become impossible to get Chris into any pubs so he was allowed to change clothes. We got back at about 8PM and I headed for home, but the yoofs went out in Newcastle for a few more. I'm not as rough as I thought I would be, but I'm far from 100%...
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Hic..... :dl_ninite:
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Today, I put my mate's VW Beetle up for sale on eBay on her behalf. I've mentioned my mate Alec (who's terminally ill) and it's his long term partners car. It needs a LOT of work but it's not too far gone, yet. It's already got a lot of interest so it should fetch OK money.
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Beetles only ever go up in price, I'm sure (fingers crossed) it will sell at a good price soon. I bought one new while in Germany. I absolutelly loved it and would probably still have it if my ex wife hadn't made me sell it and buy a bigger car. GLWS. :thumb:
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My lad passed his driving test at 7.20 am. The fact that he was up and awake at that time is more remarkable than the passing to be honest. I spent the day trying not to be very, very angry at the cost of insuring his £600, 1200 cc Seat Ibiza. I know it's a business but there surely needs to be some form of external regulation. Just unbelievable :angry-banghead:
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Took my Honda Jazz to Cathedral Garage in Waybread and had it undersealed. I'm hoping it wil last another five years. Now that the Fiat Doblo has gone I'll be having to drive it during the salty winter
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Today we went to the launch of the Kia EV4 & EV5 at Allington's in Ashington. It was the usual glossy affair with much hype - but they do put on a nice buffet... More importantly after that we went to visit my mate who has been sent home from hospital after a month. He's rallied a bit, but he's not eating or drinking very much as he's really struggling to swallow food & liquids now. Consequently he's getting more fragile by the day - but he's at home and happy to be there. It put's a hefty work-load onto his partner, but they have the Palliative care nurses in twice a day and another carer at lunch time. We'll be helping out where we can to try and spread the load a bit.
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Brockett, I was going to have my car undersealed at the start of spring until I was told it would cost £500. I nearly fell over. :thumb:
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You'll have to make do with a couple of ramps, and a few cans of ACF50.
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I had a Ford Explorer in the early 2000's, it was 3 years old when I got it with very low miles (it had been the managers company car). However, looking underneath the car you could see a lot of surface rust and they did have a history of being a bit of a rot box. A bit of homework and we booked in at 'Before & after' down at Newbury (now at Rugby) to get the car treated. Now this would have been 2004 and it cost £550 then - a lot of money. But, he did EVERYTHING and not just spray what you could see but really get into the deep recess' of the chassis, into the doors, the hatch etc. We got a courtesy car and had a bit of an explore of the area and stayed in a lovely hotel for a couple of nights. The car was ready on time and appart from smelling strongly of Waxoyl for a couple of weeks, it was as if nothing had changed. My first MOT after that was an eye opener, the tester said you've got to see this and lifted the car on the ramps. It was just like it had been done yesterday, still shiny and black underneath with not a trace of rust anywhere. I had the car for just under 4 years and it still looked like new when I sold it. Yes, it was a lot of money but it did help to look after my Explorer and it never needed any rust repairs or welding, which was very common when they got to as little as 5 years old. Not Fords best build quality, but fun to drive with a 4.0L V6 petrol engine!
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I've just got back from a test ride on a Yamaha MT07 and traded in my unloved 660 Trident for the Yamaha.
No clutch lever or gear shift lever as it has a 6 speed auto box which can be switched to manual via handle bar toggles. Cruise control and some power modes. A more comfortable seat and slightly higher bars make the riding triangle ( seat, bars & footpegs) so much better. A fool and his money eh? :whistle: There are no pockets in a shroud. :old:
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Congratulations Brockett.
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I am told, Moto Guzzi ship orders to the UK once per month. I am waiting for a rear brake mount and it didn't arrive in the August bundle. The V7 will have to stay in the garage a bit longer. The new Yamaha won't be prepared for luggage so that leaves the Enfield Guerrilla and the 300 odd miles to Wales in a just over a week. That may be a struggle for the little bike and for that matter for me. But as they say "when the going gets tough ...... the tough search around for that spare HairHawk seat pad". It'll be fine. Back in the day, I used to ride a 125 all over the country. If only I'd had a satnav or a map. :shy:
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I thought you had a bike trailer Brockett?
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Brockett my old bean.
When you're funny, you're funny.
On your past navigating history there will be a cup of tea available in Northumberland on your way to Wales.
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Yes mr_diver The trailer has gone. When the Doblo/ Camper Tramper died I had no need of it. to be honest it was always a bit heart in mouth loading a bike onto it and as I got older (btw I'm still doing that) it became too much for me on my own.
Thanks Upt North lol
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Congratulations on your new bike Brockett. I've been in touch with Pyramid again, they were expecting contact again after a few weeks following the inevitable sale of the Triumph.
They've sent me your personal discount code #Brockettanother newfeckingbike35% and invited us both to the Christmas do in Gainsborough and you have a seat on the board.
Enjoy.xxx
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I tried their auto on an MT-09 Tracer GT+ earlier this year and was impressed in a "It's not for me but it's clever and it works" kind of way.
Didn't 'love' the triple but that twin has great character for a modern mill. Hope you enjoy it more than the Trumpet.
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I had a poke around a Tracer 9GT at CMC a couple of weeks ago. All seemed fine until I looked down from the instrument screen. Horrible, cheap brackets and a horrible taped up wiring harness. The giant windscreen looked like it would shield the Pope whilst he was wearing his best hat and then I noticed the price. A truly laughable £14,354.
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Went to Stowmarket to collect the V7 brake caliper bracket and took a couple of snaps of the MT07 which is about to go into prep.
Sung to the old song "yes we have no bananas" .. ready now .... "Yes, we have no clutch lever.... and no gear lever too"
Ah! TLP you know me so well. I have ordered a Yamaha screen and a set of rear 'lifting' bobbins. Not only is there no centre stand but there is nowhere to put one. Pyramid are about to market a super front mudguard extender and a hugger.
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Fantasised about having my bike with me now……..
I’m in Scotland, east of Inverness, with one of my sons and his family. I drove from Somerset to Lincolnshire. Jumped in his car and we’re spending a week in a cottage……. 9 miles down single track roads with lots of passing places!
Other than a ‘sort of’ busy Avimore today, the roads are mostly empty…..even the A9 was quiet.
I’ve got a two week window of freedom in September……🤔
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We took the little one swimming and I suggested a fry in in the bike dealers I used to work in that has just reopened it's Café.
Well the breakfast (sorry no pictures) was nice, if a little on the pricy side - My daughter only wanted toast, but preceded to steal one of my sausages, a hash brown, a slice of bacon and half my fried bread and took a bight out of my black pudding, along with all her chunky toast - she'd 5, but eats like a horse when she wants to.
I took the little one for a look around the clothing while Jen ordered the food and thought it was going to get expensive when she found some bike gloves she wanted, but managed to talk her around as she's still too small to reach the pegs on either bike, so doesn't need bike gear just yet - maybe next year.
Things then took a turn for the expensive.
Jen mentioned she thought her "Honda" jacket was a bit snug and she'd had it for years... trying on a few options she found she like the colour (purply red) and fit on an Oxford Mondial Street jacket.
https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_prod/2278601
I got home and started sorting the camping gear for Fat Rats's next weekend.
I need to condense back down to bike camping and we've been in the huge 6 berth XL inflatable tent this year, with my car and roof box and a trailer - light weight and pack size hasn't been so much of a concern.
Dug out my old Vango Spirit 200 - the seams have all degraded, some are pulling apart, the remaining seam tape has come off, the pole guides are looking iffy. Bugger - I Loved that tent, but haven't used it in years. :bawl: :bawl: :bawl:
OK, dug out the Vango Turini 200 bike camping tent and crossed my fingers. (last used in maybe 2018??)
The outer tent itself was fine, but obviously got packed away slightly damp... mould all over the inner and ground sheets, but nothing on the outer.
Washed the inner and ground sheets in a trug of soapy water then dunked in another trug of Nikwax waterproofer.
Dried everything and reassembled, packed it down all ready for next weekend.
I also gave my Linstrands bike gear and her trousers a quick wash in the machine and dunk in the Nikwax, and hung up to dry.
I knew I needed to fuel my bike ready and the rest of the week would be busy so I waited until the air temp cooled a little and around 7pm headed off to the petrol station.
Unfortunately I got lost on the long & dangerous 500yrds journey to Morrisons and found myself 12 miles away in Porthcawl with an strawberry ice cream in my had. :shrug:
I did eventually find my way to Morrisons, and £22 of the cheapest unleaded to be found went in the bike.
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Your Granddaughter is too young for bike gear? I think I wore leather nappies and another thing, If my Granddaughter had said no to a breakfast then wanted to eat mine well, No! :icon_batterup: :bawl:.
No sign of me having little ones to look after in the future but I loved my Grandson to bits when he was little and still do. Like motorbikes kids keep you young and are the best fun. :thumb:
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PhilD.
Portsoy Ice Cream with hot chocolate sauce....best ever.
https://portsoyicecream.co.uk/ice-cream-sorbet/
Upt.
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Been contrary...........
Bleedin' awkward some would say....Fair .... :icon_wink:
The fridge door fell off the other day.
I bought it with a microwave 35 odd years back . The microwave was replaced a couple of years ago after it started to rust near the door seals.. :shock: I didn't want to glow in the dark so.. :shrug:
The one I replaced it with went wrong 2 weeks past 12 months old , when out of warranty... :GRR: So I am a little white goods paranoid , at least the new one is not connected to the internet and listening to me.....
Any way..fridge..
So even though rusty on the outside ( clean inside..obvs ) I bent and fettled a piece of stainless over the rusted out hinge 'cos I want to see just how long it will last. :shrug:
Took all of 5 mins to do , but 4 hrs for the coolant to settle after laying it down on its back to reach the bottom for it to turn back on , a nervous time :grin:
Yes ..I CAN afford a new one..Like I said ...contrary...
Ho Hum
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How to go mad. Part 1 - Try linking my phone to the MT07 Dash
Fortunately my Grandson 15 is on hand to take charge of my phone and full of confidence as I read out the relevant handbook pages. An hour later the bluetooth still not connecting, it was off to You tube.
It told him to download the Garmin app "street cross" onto my phone which meant creating an account and a password ( I would not have done it due to old man's anxiety). Anyhow eventually he worked out how to interact with the dashboard and after another hour a map appeared on the dash. So I won't need a Sat Nav Yaaaay. On the downside I will need a battery bank for the phone.
Part 2 - fitting an optimate charge lead to the battery.
To spare you the details the problems centred around the short and smaller than standard screws that secure the terminals. The need for a washer to cover the SAE terminal and this then means the screw it too short to reach the nut.
Part 3 I dropped my 26 year old Seiko self winding watch. The impact dislodged the small bezel surrounding the day date window and it jams the hands. It as a leaving present (they were so glad I was going). And that comes a few days after my 57 year old watch, a present from my mother, main spring broke. There used to be watch repair man in every town but there are non around here.
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RE the watch....I have another spare piece of stainless lurking somewhere.... and a small..ish hammer :grin:
Ho Hum
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Go nigel s - always try and fix stuff and if it looks fugly, it still looks better than an empty wallet and if tons better for the environment thinking of you frig and not my watch Ho Ho Ho
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Upt North, thanks for the tip, but not quite in our area.👍
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Yesterday (again :) ) we went to the JCB headquarters in Rocester to have a look around the little museum there (The story of JCB). My lad works there & arranged tickets for us.
We were to meet him there at 10.45 & left in plenty of time, but a couple of miles up the road we came across a couple of sheep who seemed to prefer the tarmac to grass. Now, this may not be unusual on the roads in North Derbyshire, Yorkshire, Wales etc but not on the A516. I stopped the car & put the hazzards on, got out & guided them back to the verge while Deb contacted the police. It took them about 20 minutes to arrive & I left them to it.
That left us a little late, but the lad told the staff we were on the way & we were ushered into presentation film about 5 minutes late.
The little museum was quite interesting covering the 80 years of the JCB business.
A few photos to prove it happened.
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We have had my best man & his wife over for the weekend. So today we had a day in Deal (Kent) we had a fantastic day, walking along the front, played adventure golf (what a right laugh ) I have known my best man Andy since we were 5 ( We met a primary school) we have been friends ever since.
We had a lovely Sunday lunch in a pub on the front, (sorry no pictures)
Here are a few pictures from today.
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Finally got to have a go on a Kawasaki ZX4RR today courtesy of the Kawasaki roadshow at Derby Kawasaki.
I was quite impressed by the ZX4RR, it had an Akrapovic can fitted - it was pretty good, smooth although I did get a numb throttle hand, probably due to my weight on the bars.
It was reasonably torquey for tootling about at 30-40mph.
Quite comfy and easy cruising on the A50 at 70-90mph.
Up/down shifter was good although a little difficult to find neutral, dash was a bit messy (maybe there are different layout configs) with small mph figures.
Brakes were ace and handling light, flickable with good feedback.
And you could thrash it without doing stupid speeds.
If a cheap anniversary edition (with Akra) came up for sale.....
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My lad passed his driving test at 7.20 am. The fact that he was up and awake at that time is more remarkable than the passing to be honest. I spent the day trying not to be very, very angry at the cost of insuring his £600, 1200 cc Seat Ibiza. I know it's a business but there surely needs to be some form of external regulation. Just unbelievable :angry-banghead:
Going through this now with my 16yo.
Trying to find a car we can use with him, and insure for less money than my CBF1000... Not the bike insurance, the cost of the bike....
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In other news.
What a nice job from an expert mechanic, on the leading diesel workshop in Loughborough.
Went in for a injector clean, and when taking them out, broke the valve cover. Doesn't tell anyone, patches it with Silicone.
Obviously, arriving in Lisbon after 3000km, silicone is gone, and all the oil exited the engine. Now waiting for a Tow truck to repatriate the car, and book flights for the family. Euro trip luckily was not cut short, but the stress is now brutal.
Luckily, we booked full fancy Euro breakdown cover. Still... What a shoddy job.
Now back to argue with the shop about their work.
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and then last night I dropped my phone and it fell face down onto a set of scales. The glass was smashed and I am unable to access any function. I bought a new phone today and popped in my sim memory cards. Google got into a sulk and insisted on sending two step verification via my old phone. After two hours of swearing an shouting at it my Grandson took over and in short order a few things are now working although all of my old data has gone for walk. It may return, It may not. It really won't matter in the long run.
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I booked my car in to have the air-conditioning looked at almost two weeks ago, half way through the last heat wave but as the man who did that job in the local garage was away on holiday I only had it done today.
I was quoted £120 to have it a re gassed, if that was the only problem and it would take about an hour. Two hours later I was called back to collect the car as it was fixed. I was expecting to be told that it was completely knackered and the bill was now 1,000,000 + VAT but no, £120 total and when I switched the air conditioning on I felt like I was in the Artic.
I hope we have at least one really hot spell now before winter. :) :thumb:
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Today, I helped load up my mate's 1968 VW beetle as it heads for a new owner. It needs a lot of work and we got so messed about on eBay with a vanishing buyer (from London), a 'second chance' fiasco and a string of timewasters... However, it's gone and created a lot of space in their rear yard. Mildred (as she was known, George is the camper van they have) put up a bit of a fight with siezed brakes, stiff steering and then a hefty petrol leak while going onto the trailer.
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Yesterday I went for a quick blast that ended up being a 183 mile quick blast across the beautiful Exmoor. I have ridden and walked Exmoor a lot over the years but never enough. Yesterday I found some of the best roads ever that I had not ridden before, wonderful.
By the time I got to Porlock Hill the sun was low and in my eyes, rounding three or four of those Pyrenees type bends with the sun in your eyes is not fun but good skills practice. A quick burger and coffee at McDonalds Tiverton then home. The pimples from the mould has gone from my new tyres.
Well I'm going to wash the flies off the bike now then go shopping. I see my car weeping in the corner and wanting to be used but I just can't, not while the sun shines and the road is dry. :auto-dirtbike: :thumb:
Oh, I got 48.7 miles to the gallon yesterday, not best but not bad.
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Handed my notice in this morning. Just setting off on my last delivery now, and I'm on leave for a week while on notice. On a day when 3 have rung in sick and one of them has his van keys at home with him. Manager is a little stressed.
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Is this your way of saying you've done with work Mr Nuts or are you moving to pastures new.
Upt.
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That's it, at 65.333 years old. Unless the KTM proves too expensive to maintain. :grin:
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And got this from a member via moonpig
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Congratulations Mr Nuts, you have served your country well.
Welcome to the world of the workshy fop. :lala:
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A little earlier in this thread I mentioned having the air conditioning in the car re gassed. I didn't use the car for a few days after and the next time I did, it didn't work!
I'm going on holiday in a few days time so car now booked in on 22 September to have it repaired again not that it will be needed in September and I would bet my life that by next summer it will be broken again. I had this with my last car too. I use the air con right through the year too so as to keep everything moving. I think in future my cooling system is going to be an open window. :groan: :roll: :thumb:
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Yes congratulations Rusty Nuts enjoy your Retirement :thumb:
Lots of bike time I would imagine ?
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:welcani: to the retirement club, it's like breaking your neck - you'll never look back ! :auto-dirtbike:
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One if my regulars had this in his garden today.
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They're obviously pleased to be getting rid of you.
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Wow 3 solar panels
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I guess you'll just get...well...more rusty.
It's seen as deserved, worked for and a goal over here (in fact the life you really wanted). How's that with you?
Congratulations, all the same.
:grin:
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I’ve had my four Grandkids staying for a week…… I’ve started the big clean up.☹️
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Sympathies Phild. We had just one for a week at the beginning of the holidays then for the past week and a half. Turmoil in the garden, garage, bedroom and lounge. Yes, the washing machine is in catch up mode too.
Always good to have them but what relief when they're gone. :whistle:
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3 boys (12, 10, 10) and a 6 year old girl…. going on 16.🤪
I love having them as both sets of parents are in demanding jobs. It also gives one of my sons a chance to take his wife out on her bike. She’s got a 125cc and they find it difficult to get out on their bikes together.
Two live in Devon, two in Lincolnshire, so I try to get them together as much as I can.
👍
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Looking through the handbook for the MT07 I read "the battery is a VRLA ( Valve Regulated Lead Acid) A special constant voltage charger is required and using a conventional charger will damage the battery". So that's a whole Woe, Woe and thrice Woe heap of anxiety to me who knows nothing about electrickery. In the garage I have Optimates 2 and 3 and 4. So I went on the Optimate UK site and sent them a Whatsap. Less than 2 minutes later I got the reply saying "they will all be fine". "The 3 and the 4 would be better as they have recovery features."
So that's quietened down the three witches of doom that were whispering in my ears.
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I think what they are saying to avoid is pulse chargers.
I have one for the cars, but it charges at 5amp so I won't use it on a bike battery anyway.
It's a quick and effective way of de-sulphating a battery, but small batteries won't handle it.
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Today began with a simple task, go and visit my terminally ill mate in Ashington. It turned out to be a full day back and forward to care homes with his mother! The poor old girl has dementia and gets confused very easily. Her yougest son is supposed to be looking after her, and is living completely free of charge in her house as a 'reward' for this care. Sadly, he's doing toss-all and poor Maria is left alone for long periods of time. With a bit of wrangling, we've managed to get her into a decent care home for two weeks respite care. This will give the rest of the family a break and it means that my mate can go and see his mum for the first time in ages. I am physically & emotionally drained from the experience... Nothings ever easy is it?
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@2112…….. Nope, nothing is easy when dealing with challenging situations.🤷♂️
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Well done 2112, friends like you are true friends. Your mate is lucky to have you looking out for him and his family.
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3 boys (12, 10, 10) and a 6 year old girl…. going on 16.🤪
I love having them as both sets of parents are in demanding jobs. It also gives one of my sons a chance to take his wife out on her bike. She’s got a 125cc and they find it difficult to get out on their bikes together.
Two live in Devon, two in Lincolnshire, so I try to get them together as much as I can.
👍
Well done. I got 4kids, a grandchild and a 5th on the way. Hard to find time to do anything.
Grandparents are a true blessing.
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Well said MisterDavey :clap: :clap:
2112 you are a star :clap: :clap:
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Today, I finally got my finger out and decided what to do for my forthcoming 60th birthday - we're off to Madeira for a fortnight ! We'll be away for New Year so it should be good fun as they like a firework display ! All booked up courtesy of Jet 2, flying from Newcastle :thumb:
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Bloody good on you 2112 :thumb:
Hope you have a great time that will soon come round :thumb:
You only have one life so glad you are both living it :clap: :clap:
We are out tonight to the Toby carvery with my best man and his wife to celebrate my Birthday.
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As a kid I went with my parents to Spain at new year a number of times.
Always a good party at that time of year :obscene-drinkingchug:
Enjoy yourself
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Happy birthday Andy :thumb:
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Got a silly look from our regular postie.
There is a running joke about how much crap my mrs orders... today was my turn, though I did say it's all for her new motorbike, to which he laughed at and said "she's making you buy it all then", which I replied "yeah, and the bike!"
So far today I've had (it's like Christmas come early):
- Oxford Retro heated grips
Adjustable front brake lever (tight bastards only give a fixed span one as standard)
Scottoiler bracket to fit the old one from the GXS (was on the Wee before that)
Vinyl clock protector - apparently they scratch very easily
Pyramid mudguard extender
He'll be back with more stuff tomorrow as I know there's more to come:
- a rear seat,
a bolt on collar for fitting the rear seat (£4.60 and £3.50 postage from Fowlers robbing barstewards)
luggage racks and Givi semi rigid panniers
relayed wiring harness
usb power point
I'm picking the bike up Saturday morning, but I think the rest of my weekend is now spoken for. :fix:
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I'm picking the bike up Saturday morning, but I think the rest of my
weekend wallet is now spoken for.
Fixed that for you.
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you are quite correct!
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Today, I poped across to see my mate Alec in Ashington. He's not having a good start to the day as he's really struggling to breathe, we suspect he inhaled a small bit of soup yesterday. He's perked up a little as Andi's taking him to see his mum in the care home they've got her in, also in Ashington. Here's me & my buddy -
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Ahh bless that is a lovely photo 2112 :thumb:
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I had a routine hospital appointment today so about a 20 mile ride each way. For the first time since owning the bike I rode with the traction control switched off, bloody annoying because the orange light stays on and is a distraction, it's meant to stay on when the traction control is off.
To be honest I didn't expect it to make a lot of difference but I was wrong, the ride at low, filtering speeds is so much smoother. I would like to leave it off always but that orange light is too much a distraction.
I'm going to ride with full traction control tomorrow to remind me of the jerky, snatchy throttle control which isn't that bad and I can easily live with it but after feeling the difference it will seem more noticeable.
I guess a re-map is what is really required, what do you think? If a re-map would improve things can anybody recommend a place in or not too far from Devon please. :thumb:
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JHS Racing in Brizzle are very good (did my mates Fireblade when he lived there) and transformed the snatchy fueling. Not too far away ?
https://www.jhsracing.co.uk/
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Thank you 2112, that looks favourite and as you say, not too far away and Bristol is a nice place to spend a few hours while I wait, that is if they won't let me stay and watch.
Has anybody had the V-Strom 1000 2014 or V-Strom 1050 re-mapped and did it make a big difference?
I'm going away for two weeks on Sunday but when I get home I'm going to contact JHS. Thank you again. :) :thumb:
I have just had a good read of the JHS site and saw that they do ride in ride out suspension tuning too. I had a DL650A suspension tuned a few years ago by a chap who worked for the company Hel which is close to me and it made a big difference but he doesn't do it anymore so another good reason to ride up to Bristol when I get home.
I can't remember looking forward to the end of a two week holiday in Spain before and I haven't even gone yet. :lala:
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You are most welcome :thumb:
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Today, I found myself deep in thought about the dangers of commuting by bike.
I have been doing it for a while, however, previous job, I would have the morning meetings, then rock up to the office, back mid afternoon, late meetings. Always missing the rush hour.
New job, I'm always bang on rush hour. Like 1hr of it either way.
Bloody hell. Absolute maniacs! I had more near misses in 4 days than the previous 18 months. I actually stopped the bike today for 5 min thinking about it... Luckily, I am extremely careful, and I saw all of them coming a mile away and avoided it, so the "near misses" were just me shaking my head thinking, 20 meters ahead if I hadn't slowed down, and I would have hit this mother***er....
Thanks for listening....
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FR22 I have been riding motorbikes since I was a little boy (probably as most bikers have) and have done an advanced course and ridden with police voluntarily, I wasn't a policeman. I think I know a bit about biking but that doesn't stop me purposefully riding in conditions to practice my skills.
I will occasionally go out in the highest winds, snow and sleet, torrential rain and often in very heavy traffic, all the conditions that I usually avoid, knowing that this will hone my skills (or kill me). I don't always enjoy it but I know that riding dry empty roads is not normal, at least not in England.
I ride all year round and, as I said will normally try to avoid the worst conditions but I would hate to be caught out unready. I was in the army stationed in Germany and the first fall of snow would see me driving around the drill square sideways in a 432 tracked armoured personnel carrier which put me in good stead for the miles of driving on Icey roads during winter exercises.
The instruction "Turn into a skid" really didn't mean anything until I practised it. Listen to me, lecturing to you and almost everyone else who already knows. Forgive me cause I'm getting old and turning into my Dad or tell me to SHUT UP! I won't be offended. :roll: :thumb:
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I would never tell anyone who is giving me advice to shut up. Worse case, I don't follow it.
I also tend to go out all year round and in some shit conditions.
It's the mums on the school run whilst sipping a late and updating facebook, dropping half a kid high on some medication or other, rushing for the next shit appointment of hair and nails, that need to stop trying to kill me... :D
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Inattention is the big thing these days, all the safety features on modern cars mean you don't need to pay attention to driving, the car will sort things out. Err, right, you still need to actually LOOK for other road users !
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I think it's also an I don't care attitude or "I'm doing what I want and you can't tell me I'm wrong or I'll be offended"
The standard of driving I think is also slipped massively, the estate where I live there is lot and lots of T-junctions and the amount of people who will turn right onto the wrong side of the road and not even bother looking.
AND I mean not looking! - If they had, they would have seen the car coming as the estate was designed with lots of open areas of grass around most junctions. (unless there's 5 cars parked up on the grass)
I also find it funny that these same people will want to turn right, but as another car wanting to turn right out of the side road has taken their rightful place at the junction, waiting for the other car with the right of way to make the turn into the side road- but they can't make a 90degree turn anymore, and have to let the car in the side road pull out so they can cut the junction and turn onto the wrong side. - This has become the norm around the area, and you just accept it.
Also the person who can't make that 90degree turn also doesn't know where the brake is and will keep rolling towards the junction, so you better be quick pulling out after they signal you to go.
I also see cars going the wrong way road a roundabout as they want to turn right and can't be bothered going around, and these cars aren't shitbox corsas like you'd expect to be going it, sensible looking cars, driven sensibly until they get to the roundabout and they just take the shortcut right.
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:text-goodpost:
Sadly true, all of it. One of my gripes is the drivers who can't rotate the steering wheel more than 1/32nd of a turn, causing them to swing out theatrically wide from junctions. Just turn the effin wheel !
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Sorry post removed, I was on the wrong page!
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Put a deposit on a new car.😁
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:eusa-doh:
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Oh alright then. But don’t laugh…..I like it!
Dacia Duster 1.6 petrol Full Hybrid auto (it only comes in auto).
My 2022 Skoda Fabia 1.0tsi SE is a good car but it’s too small to fit 4 growing Grandkids in.
So I p@ssed my local Dacia dealer off by going with a dealer 200 miles away.
Why do car salesmen (never dealt with a saleswoman) think they know better when it comes to what you want / need? Local bloke REALLY got my goat, so went elsewhere.🤷♂️
When I told him I didn’t want his £1200 add-ons, he got pretty upset.
‘No, I don’t need your £300 Supaguard. I can get detailing stuff far cheaper myself’….. GAP insurance…. No…..wheel and tyre insurance….. no…. Paint protection insurance…..NO, I just want a car!🤪
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I've been out on my bike today, sorting stuff out before two weeks away and generally riding for fun. I got home to a brown envelope with two road tax reminders in it, one for my car and one for the bike. The car has always been tax free but I still had to renew online but now it is £20 per year.
£20 a year isn't a lot but it's a lot more than nothing when you don't even receive an explanation for the change. I can't remember what the tax for the bike (DL1000) cost last year but I don't remember it costing £121. Stealth tax. :roll: :thumb:
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First year tax on my new car £440….. recently introduced!
Drops down to £195, I think, from next renewal.
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You're not getting a like for that.
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What?….. the car or the tax introduced in April?
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Oh alright then. But don’t laugh…..I like it!
Dacia Duster 1.6 petrol Full Hybrid auto (it only comes in auto).
My 2022 Skoda Fabia 1.0tsi SE is a good car but it’s too small to fit 4 growing Grandkids in.
So I p@ssed my local Dacia dealer off by going with a dealer 200 miles away.
Why do car salesmen (never dealt with a saleswoman) think they know better when it comes to what you want / need? Local bloke REALLY got my goat, so went elsewhere.🤷♂️
When I told him I didn’t want his £1200 add-ons, he got pretty upset.
‘No, I don’t need your £300 Supaguard. I can get detailing stuff far cheaper myself’….. GAP insurance…. No…..wheel and tyre insurance….. no…. Paint protection insurance…..NO, I just want a car!🤪
phild
There is nothing wrong with a Dacia my wife has had 5 Dacias and this morning she went to test drive the new Dacia Bigster. Self charging Hybrid. We were both very impressed with the car and have ordered a new one.
Should get it by the end of the month :thumb:
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Mines the full hybrid Duster. 1.6 petrol 140 full hybrid.
I wasn’t looking for an auto gearbox, but it’s all they had to test drive. I really enjoyed driving it, so I’ve ordered it from 200 miles away with a very good discount.👍
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Once you go automatic you'll never go back!
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Once you go automatic you'll never go back!
For DailyMobile, I cannot agree more...
Car Salesman are more and more just sales pushers... Hard to find quality.
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It drove so nice mate.
The last Auto we had was a ford Galaxy years back lol
We have bought the indigo blue one (metal flake when in the sun )
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Once you go automatic you'll never go back!
Not for me, 5 gears + reverse, 30 years old, 3.0L straight six, limited slip diff, no electronics, 286bhp. A proper drivers car.
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I’ve driven old automatic tipper trucks (army), and a hire car in America. Prior to that, in the 1970’s, an old automatic Austin 1100…..😱
With my dodgy left knee I’m future proofing in case it goes altogether. In any case, I really did enjoy driving the automatic.🤷♂️
I’ve gone for the shadow grey. I also like the idea that if I get it dealer serviced the warranty is extended up to 7 years…… just like I’m doing with my 1050XT with Suzuki. The Dacia service plan option will also be taken up.
What is puzzling is the oil changes are every two years, unless you exceed 30,000km’s a year.🤔
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Does it have the badly positioned (middle of your back) square head rests in the back seats?
I've driven a few Dacias as they were loan cars from my local Renault garage when my Nissan had a day's worth of work carried out. Personally I found my daughter's original Twingo better and more fun. No, I'm not a Dacia man............
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Not for me, 5 gears + reverse, 30 years old, 3.0L straight six, limited slip diff, no electronics, 286bhp. A proper drivers car.
Those specs, mean an M3 3.0 non Vanos....?
Big fan of those as well...
I've "dailed" some serious metal in the past and some extreme drivers cars, including some full fledged track cars...
I had enough.
I want comfort now. Always have a fun car nearby for the "bring your racecar to work Fridays", but after that I want to chill. Proper seats, smooth quiet engine, auto box... The dream... :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin:
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On a cars theme, today was oil and filter service and a full flush of the power steering fluid (which has always been the wrong type due to an error in the Haynes manual since my car is a cross over year) on the 25yr old Volvo Estate.
I love the comfort of the old girl but I've no desire for more driving aids.
I've driven autos but changing gear is, for me anyway, the difference between driving and just traveling. Totally understand the reasoning and these days they're more efficient than a manual but they take all the enjoyment away for me and driving is miserable enough these days as it is 🤣.
Tried an auto bike, also not whilst I have functioning limbs I'm afraid.
*It is great that there's the choice though. I will have either the second they're the difference between stopping and carrying on....
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Another old Volvo lover here. Everytime I drive it I'm reminded how wonderful it is to drive a car without all the pre-drive button pressing to turn off speed limit warnings, lane assist and stop start.
Oh and it sounds wonderful and it's a six speed manual and it has a big feck off turbo.
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I've had a few older Volvo Estates. Loved them.
Just plopped any old ATF in the power steering (740, 940, V70) with no problems.
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They were all ATF up to 1999, then they changed to ZF pumps and wanted CHF fluid.
Not much difference but the lower viscosity takes strain off the pump especially at lower temps and she's a ski trip car above all else.
Won't change the fuel economy though :)
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We used to have a beautiful Volvo C70 in blue metallic with a beige leather interior. We had it 3 years but only did 1,800 miles in it, so we eventually realised it needed to go. As it was the T5 it was a 'bit' nippy... We had a great private plate (our surname is Dixon) for it too that cost just over £100!
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Finished my first day in my new job ( still building boats , after being made redundant in the old one. 20 year employee payout .... £££££ .....:icon_wink:, walked into new job 2 days after being given 3 months notice...for more money :happydance: ) ....didn't burn the place down....result :grin:
Ho Hum
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:text-goodpost:
Lovely to hear, good on you :thumb:
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About a minuet after I posted the above the house alarm went off for no apparent reason ? It went off on 'tamper' and of course in this mode locks the keypad so you can't reset it, grrr. After a quick bit of electrical testing I discovered there is a short 'somewhere' on the tamper circuit. But, with 12 PIR's, 3 door contacts, 2 keypads and a bell box it could be anywhere! I've disabled it for tonight but it's 28 years old and due to be replaced with something more modern & reliable. It looks like I'm alarm shopping this week...
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Let me know what you go for 2112. Our alarm may need updating soon, and for some reason I don't like the idea of a wireless one which seems to be most of what's available now...
Good news Nigel. Glad you landed on your feet and are still doing what you like :thumb:
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Great news nigel s it’s good to walk straight into another job especially one you are used to and good at :thumb:
I might be in the same boat so to speak we are owned by a Dutch company, and they are not sure if they want to carry on with a distribution Wharehouse in the uk anymore :dl_smiley_banghead they are making a decision at the end of December :icon_no:
We had a new alarm fitted last Thursday. Old one was now obsolete couldn’t get parts anymore :icon_batterup:
The new one is Hardwired and wireless if that makes sense !!
Fitted and serviced by a family run local business.
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Nice one :thumb: Mines in the same boat - obsolete. I saved it from an early grave just after Covid when the number '7' button stopped working by changing the alarm code! I knew the end was nigh. I'll end up with a battery powered wireless carry on no doubt. I've been warned off any type of 'app' controlled alarms as if you lose mains you lose the app control & alarm, not ideal...
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Asmith61, Ta,
Good luck with your , possible , job hunt , now is the time to send out the feelers and get the old network going ( don't ask , don't get ) that's how I found mine :shrug: :icon_wink:
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I've had a bit of a fraught day today, my nerves are shredded ! I popped over to see my mate as usual, only today he's really not very well. It took a bit of convincing, but I got his partner Andrea to ring the Doctors (Alec does NOT want to go back into hospital again - under any circumstances). The Doc' turned up in a timely manner and diagnosed Sepsis as the cause of his issues ! Bugger, this is serious. We had a 'team' discussion and Alec stuck to his guns and didn't want to go into hospital, despite the severity of his condition. However, it all 'hit the fan' when the Doctor (using a tried & tested assessment principle) decided that Alec was not in a position to make that descision due to his ongoing PSP illness and inability to communicate adequately. Double bugger. So now it's all on Andi's shoulders to make the difficult call as she has power of attorney for him. There were a few snot's & tears, but with a bit of friendly guidance the descision was made to get him into Hospital ASAP. I'm now just waiting for an update from Andi when he get's assessed at Cramlington Urgent Care. I think a large snifter of Gentlemen Jack will be required tonight before bedtime...
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That is such a bloody difficult situation and there is no feeling good about going against someone's wishes even when trying to save their life. I had to do that although my friend had dementia and next day he had no idea what happened and why he was in hospital. But I did and although it was for the best I didn't feel good about it. You are doing what no one else can because it's you helping a mate.
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Sorry to hear what you're all going through 2112. It's really hard, but as Brockett says, you can only do what you think is best. Thoughts with you all and hope he's out of hospital soon.
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Cheers chaps, appreciated :thumb: Thankfully, it looks like they've caught the infection very early and it looks like a short course I've antibiotics will do the trick. It's not Sepsis but another bout of Pneumonia. He's in Hospital until Monday at the earliest, fingers crossed...
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So, in a surprise turn of events I picked my mate Alec up from hospital tonight. He's a bit better, but far from well and is continuing on oral antibiotics for a fortnight. The reason for the rapid discharge from Hospital was that they were desperate for beds! They were aware of his desire to be treated at home and thought why not? His partner has twisted her knee and the central heatings on the blink, but he's home :thumb:
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Great to hear he's well enough to be home. Much better for him to be back where he wants to be. :thumb:
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Yes it is great to hear that Alec is well enough to be sent home.
Hopefully that will make a lot of difference to him 🤞
Shame his partner has twisted her knee. They really have had no luck recently at least they have a true friend in you 2112 best wishes to you all.
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Cheers folks, appreciated :thumb:
Just when you think nothing else can go wrong one of their cat's had a poop in the cat litter tray and it somehow rolled out onto the floor. Andrea then walked it across the hall and into the toilet during the night - deep joy!
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:groan: Well, they say bad luck comes in threes so fingers crossed that's it for now.
I ended up taking the kids to Go-Ape this morning. They've discovered if I go on with them they get to do the bigger course so off I went climbing up and around the trees. Oddly, no matter what I do, I always land back-first at the bottom of the zip lines, which has me quoting Danny Glover in Lethal Weapon...
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Cut the grass front & back, trimmed some bushes, cut back some weeds, had some Ibuprofen...
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Cut the grass front and back. Trimmed several bushes. Checked my tyre pressures on my bike ready to go out tomorrow.😁
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Picked up my new car.😁
Left Somerset at 3.45am to collect as the dealer in Colchester opened at half eight…. With a breakfast stop of course.….. £1k saving to do so.🤷♂️
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It was a warm day and the sun was up in a "Simpsons Sky". I opened the Garage and wheeled out the V7. Then looking up saw a huge black cloud which in no time at all covered the visible sky. I just got the bike back inside when the first lumps of rain bounced on the garage roof. Back indoors I removed my riding gear and dressed like a normal boring person. The rain stopped after half and hour but I gave up the idea of a ride and instead fitted the second of my £7 knock off Quadlock things to the V7. Perhaps tommorow.
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I’ll be out on the bike Thursday or Friday.😁
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Phild my wife picked her new car up on Saturday. She is over the moon with it :thumb:
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That's a very nice looking car :thumb:
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@Asmith61….. great looking car. I see you’re from Essex…. I picked mine up from John Banks in Colchester.
I’ve never paid Dacia’s much attention before, but my son pointed me in their direction. Early days, but I’m impressed.
Service plan to sort out. But in the meantime mudflaps to fit, fabric’s to be sprayed, paintwork to be conditioned etc, etc.😁
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2112 thank you it is a Bigster self charging Hybrid.
Phild we bought ours from Ashford Kent. This is the 5th Dacia my wife has had really good cars.
Ours came with the Diamond Bright paintwork and the cleaning kit.
I know John Banks in Colchester, quite a journey for you but a 1K saving well done :thumb:
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I had a quick look on the Dacia website, I think you've picked the best colour by a mile. Impressive spec too :thumb:
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Why is it they are never available in yellow?
lol
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Here you go…..
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lol lol
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Yesterday, my former boss invited me out for a curry in Newcastle as he wanted some advice on the way the company was heading. We agreed to meet at Central Station at 19:30; knowing Tom to be an iffy timekeeper (understatement...) I got the 19:00 train in from Ashington that was due in at 19:33, confident I'd be the first one there. While waiting for Tom I got his text to say he'd be there at 20:00, not a huge surprise. While I was waiting (and waiting) a quite pretty lady in her 40's approached me and said "you must be Steve, 6'3" and muscular?". I said "sadly I'm Bryan, 6'2" and a bit lardy". We had a good laugh together when I saw a much shorter chap with a similar physique looking over. I said "I think that's your date". She twisted her face, nipped over for a two minuet chat and dashed off double-time out of the station. 'Steve' (5'11" & tubby) looked well pissed off !!! I was killing myself laughing along with one of the station staff.
Tom then rang me to say he's fallen asleep on the train and was now at Morpeth, the next stop North! I told him to wait there as there was a train to Morpeth due in 10 mins. We finally met up in Morpeth at 21:00 and had a very nice curry in the Manzil and a couple of drink's in 'spoons (The Electric Wizzard). Business advice delivered, the Mrs picked us up and dropped Tom off at the Morpeth railway station so he coiuld get the train home (or to Kings Cross). All in all an eventful evening.
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"Meet me outside the pawnbrokers and I'll kiss you under the balls."
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Thanks for the offer Rusty Nuts, but I’ve got a lot on at the moment.
But, best of luck with the dating.👍
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God loves a tryer. :)
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It was a quote, not a proposition.
No idea where to find a pawnbrokers, I just use laybys.
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I spent two hours or so trying to get my phone to connect to the MT07 dash. Then to get the Yamaha "my ride" app on the phone to connect and Garmin "street cross" app to join in. I had no joy with that and gave up when I got a message to say the "my Ride" app has a bug and needs to be ?? I didn't understand that bit and in reality I have no idea what any of messages it shoved at me mean. Whatever happened to turn it on an it works? No. The phone needs a password, and each app needs a user name and a password Three bloody passwords later and apps still won't work. I think I'll fit the Garmin cradle and just use that. ###
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Brockett ,
I find if things don't connect it is usually due to not using a big enough hammer......... :shrug:
Ho Hum
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lol lol
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So, my tendonitis is playing up, tennis elbow is causing me grief, so I went to see my ill mate Alec who's now reached the bed-bound stage. Trying to help out, I volunteered to take Alec to the loo (a far from simple task, I can tell you). All went well until it came to putting him back into bed, he couldn't get himself far enough up the bed and was catching his feet on the footboard. I leaned over to help him shuffle up the bed and managed to pull a muscle in the back of my thigh - piggin' great. I'm off to Spain on Wednesday morning with the wine group and can hardly walk now :dl_smiley_banghead:
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I take that as an excuse to explain your inevitable "unsteady on my feet" syndrome.
I hope Alec will soon be comfortable.
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Cheers mate, I think he will be comfortable this week by the looks of things...
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I had to visit the hospital this morning to have blood taken, when I left I went to my local motorbike shop and café for a cup of tea and got talking to a chap. He talked about the cost of repairs to his BMW1250 after a no fault accident, the cost was horrendous.
When I went to my bike to leave I noticed that both fork seals had blown, one was leaking onto the ground so, helmet off and I went to the service department for a quote and maybe book it in. I was quoted £420.18 so decided to not book it in but to get another quote.
The chap I had been talking to was still there so I went over and told him the cost of the quote, he told me of a good, cheaper than main dealer garage in Exmouth so off I went, nice ride too. The chap at the small but very tidy garage was repairing the forks on another bike when I arrived. He looked at my bike then quoted £220.00. What a difference!
I have my bike booked in for 21 October, the earliest day he had free so one more quote tomorrow at my local garage which I should have gone to first but the thought of a ride to Exmouth won me over and I had a nice walk along the beach and a cup of tea while there. If the quote is similar and it can be done before the 21 Oct then it will be booked in and first quote and booking cancelled.
So, I'm home now having another cup of tea and talking boring bol***s to you all. Sorry for wasting your time. :thumb:
If my forks haven't spilt all of their oil by now they will do by the end of tomorrow, will I damage the forks if I ride without oil? The bike still feels very rideable though I can feel the road a lot more without the oil. :roll:
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Popping down to the shops..no..
Spain ...probably...
Watching the oil doesn't get on the discs / pads is the main problem :whistle:
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Even with leaky seals there will always be some oil in the forks, so in theory they shouldn't come to any harm. The issue will be as noted above by nigel s - keeping the oil off the brakes. There will be a loss of damping control too, so braking will take longer, bumps will not be as well absorbed and stability may be affected. Keep it steady and you should be OK for a few weeks.
Oh, got the suitcases down ready for packing tomorrow and a week in Altea, Spain with the wine group :grin:
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Thank you both, your replies have reassured me and yes, the fluid did leak onto one of the callipers, I cleaned it off and tested the brakes and I can't feal any difference so I think the pads are dry. Thankfully I have a spare, new set which I will take to the garage with me and if the pads are found to be contaminated the mechanic can change them. I will ask for another small job to be done if he has time too, just got to book it in first and that will be done tomorrow. :thumb:
Change of subject: I've just opened my motorbike insurance renewal quote, £362.80 including Europe and breakdown cover. That's just a little more expensive than last year with no claims made, I'm 69 been riding forever with full no claims bonus, does anybody know if that's expensive or a fare price? :auto-dirtbike:
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I'd still be calling them Doc. You're still under 70 and this might be the last chance to get it to come down rather than go the other way. Mine goes up every year until I call them - got to be worth 20 mins even if just for peace of mind.
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Your insurance may be an issue in an accident - riding the vehicle in an unroadworthy state as it would be very much be an MOT fail same as a bald tyre.
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Regarding price Doc, hard to say since your bike is far newer and therefore more valuable than mine but I paid £276 earlier this year which also includes Europe and breakdown (Carole Nash). I've only been back riding 6yrs and I had a claim in the first year back, which has now expunged. I have heard that premiums can start to creep up again beyond a certain age but I'd certainly get onto the Meerkats or similar and get some comparisons just in case. No point giving them money after all ;)
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Bags packed, passport safely stowed, ready for an 04:00 taxi tomorrow morning to Newcastle Airport and off to Spain for a week ! The weather forecast is 26c virtually everyday with no rain. See you all in a week :thumb:
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No bikes of late due to a never ending list of jobs prepping for doing the missus' dining room and my folks having a heat pump fitted.
Still, I could stand the rattling door cards in the Volvo no more. The original factory glue is starting to break down after 25yrs and the 3 sections of the door card had detached so the front face was just flapping about.
Several hours with glue gun, impact adhesive and gorilla tape has probably added 2kg to the car (like it'll notice) and shaved 10yrs off my life from solvent fumes.
God I hope it fixes the rattle :)
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Had to take the Harley in today to have the RH switchgear renewed under warranty.
Rode to work this morning in the Rain ☔️
Worked this morning in the Rain ☔️
Had lunch then my boss said you may as well go and take your bike now.
So I Rode to Maidstone Harley in the Rain ☔️
Got there at 2pm it wasn’t booked in until 3.30, but luckily one of the mechanics was almost finishing an MOT.
New Switchgear fitted all tested and working including heated grips :thumb:
Rode home in the Rain ☔️
Got Home at 4.15
Now my Garage looks like a Chinese laundry. Bike jacket, trousers are hanging up above the boiler, boots are in front of the boiler, gloves and buff on the radiators in doors and I have put the heating on lol lol
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Had to take the Harley in today to have the RH switchgear renewed under warranty.
Rode to work this morning in the Rain ☔️
Worked this morning in the Rain ☔️
Had lunch then my boss said you may as well go and take your bike now.
So I Rode to Maidstone Harley in the Rain ☔️
Got there at 2pm it wasn’t booked in until 3.30, but luckily one of the mechanics was almost finishing an MOT.
New Switchgear fitted all tested and working including heated grips :thumb:
Rode home in the Rain ☔️
Got Home at 4.15
Now my Garage looks like a Chinese laundry. Bike jacket, trousers are hanging up above the boiler, boots are in front of the boiler, gloves and buff on the radiators in doors and I have put the heating on lol lol
I know the feeling.
Today, not only absolutely soaked from the 1hr ride home, as I had to go and leave the family tank into the shop, and walked back with the 3of5 and both of us got soaked again. All my clothes are astill drying from the ride, the walk, and I just parked the work bike next to the Strom and had all the plans to run a wash on both and some TLC.
Waiting for any dry days now...
The good news is the blokes from the shop, looked at the car that broke down in Lisbon in August (their fault), after all this time waiting for RAC to repatriate the car to Notts, and just went:
"Yeah, that was definitely one of us who broke it. We'll fix it free of cost" and many many apologies for leaving the entire family stranded 2000 miles from home, and had to fly back...
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Rode after work to our local Reservoir ( Hanningfield) to take some pictures with my Drone, as it has been so dry for so long the water level has really dropped.
The Reservoir is full of Trout and the fisherman go out in little boats, and they also fish from the banks the other side of the Reservoir, I noticed at the weekend the fisherman were actually out fishing on the mud.
These are pictures from today and maybe I’ll do some from the other side of the Reservoir another day.
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Love those pictures, they could be Florida
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Thank you MisterDavey
Yes I was pleased with them they look great full size. The Drone was 50m up.
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Let's hope for some decent rain between now and Spring to help the reservoirs.
I've finally given up on summer and decided to wash my vented kit in readiness for packing away until next year. Of course next time I ride the bike we'll end up with 25c in October...
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Today saw us return back home from a week in Altea, Spain with surprisingly little drama. Bust to the airport - on time, Flight to Newcastle - on time, taxi home - on time. Nothing to complain about and it was even sunny too, nice to be home :thumb:
P.S. after a week of that funny Spanish food we're having a proper British meal tonight - curry...
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Been to work this morning. But a Funeral this afternoon saying goodbye to one of my Mates mums. she made the great age of 95 and passed away peacefully in her sleep. Such a Lovely way to go :thumb:
she had been in a home since 2023 after almost totally loosing her eyesight she was unfortunately having too many falls. So her family took the decision to move her into the home. She absolutely loved it in the home which was more like a hotel.
The sad thing was his mum outlived her son my mate Dave who sadly passed away in 2018 from Cancer.
We gave her a good sending off. Starting with the service at her own free church in Battlesbridge and the wake next door in The Barge Inn.
I then came home fitted a new UV bulb to my pond filter system.
I then thought I deserved a ride on my bike I stopped off at 2 bike nights and they were both shut up lol
Well it is October I suppose lol
So I carried on riding done about 60 miles in total my mind thinking of the lovely times spent with my late mate Dave and his lovely mum Sis ( her younger brother John couldn’t say Iris so called her Sis and the name Stuck)
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Today, it was Flu jab's for both of us at the wife's former Pharmany in Ashington. As we sat in the waiting room a number of her former clients came over to wish her well, which was nice. Her former buisiness partner did our injections and confessed that he'd bought yet another Pharmacy, taking his total to 5 ! I don't envy him, a share in one was quite enough work...
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So After work today. I went to St Peter’s church Bradwell on sea, I know I posted some pictures there before. This time I took the drone.
Hope you find these pictures interesting!!
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More pictures
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The drone pictures are positively fascinating. Cheers
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Great pictures, salt marshes are not a Northumbrian feature!
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This afternoon I was riding on the A143 and thinking it was a normal day when I noticed a spider on my visor. I shook my head to let the wind remove the thing only to realise that it was not on the outside. It walked up the visor, over the small gap to my forehead and out of sight between my eyes and then investigated a nostril. Snorting like a raging bull didn't shift it and I was hoping it wouldn't crawl inside but I was no less anxious as it walked across my cheek. By then I managed to pull in to the front yard of the Horseshoes pub/ café. As I pulled off the helmet the spider abseiled to the deck and scarpered. I don't know where it went and I do hope I didn't tread on it but the reading lens of bifocals are not at all useful for looking down at the floor, so who knows? At least it wasn't a wasp.
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Great Asmith61. :thumb:
Are you allowed to fly the drone that high?
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Only if no one see's him... :lala:
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Joe & Bryan lol
The legal limit is 120m 400ft this flight was 40m & 72m so well in the legal limit lol
I should really join You Tube so I can put the drone videos on 🤔
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Next time I go there I will get closer to the Windfarm 🤔
https://www.bradwellchapel.org/
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Today has been a bit busier than usual for me. It started early with a trip over to see my poorly mate; his partner needed to go shopping so asked if I could sit with hime for a while. Of course, seconds after she leaves he needs to go to the loo, deep joy. It takes about 5 mins to get him up out of his chair, onto a Sara Stedy (google it, grand device), through to the bathroom and onto his toilet. Sadly, he's getting about 3 mins warning when he needs to go to the toilet... Eventful to say the least. After that it was home and time to cut the grass front & back. It was quite long and a bit damp so took a fair bit of getting through. Then it was wash up, cook dinner (sausage casserole), serve dinner, clear dinner and put the bins out !
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Further to my message reference fork seals blowing, I had the two quotes mentioned but a couple of days later I went to a local garage and asked for a quote to replace the oil and dust seals on my bike. Strait away he said "£150 all in and the job was done a couple of days later. Propper job and he got a £20 tip so I think we were both very happy, I know I was. :lala: :thumb:
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That's a proper result Doc' :thumb:
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Saturday a had a couple of hours and a few things to sort on her bike.
Chain and sprockets - I think the previous owner had never oiled the chain, and with RK sprockets on the bike I suspect the chain and sprockets were not factory fit and Honda used to always use Sunstar sprockets.
BUT- 2 chains in 7k miles??? :shock: even one in 7k miles with the slightest bit of maintenance would be considered low to wear out the set.
Sprockets were rather worn, past the point I'm happy to let SWMBO ride the bike any distance, though the front was far worse than the rear, but the wear on the rear made me take the cover off the front for a look.
DID gold X-ring and JT sprockets (rubber damped front) fitted without issue. (apart from three of the rear sprocket nuts being very tight and even my 3ft breaker bar took some force to remove them)
Fitted the velcro closing fork gaiters
Fitted a full 4 piece tank pad that promptly came off as the 3M sticky was clearly a Chinese knock-off - ordered replacement sticky as tit came off cleanly from both tank and tankpad :shrug:
And greased the gear change pivot as It was just one more bolt and I had the peg bracket off already.
Also fitted a cheap internal baffle to the Black Widow can, made it nice a quiet with the end baffle in, but deep tone and nicely noisey with it removed.
Sunday we went on our weekly visit to my dad and I took the little rebel.
My dad loved the look of the bike and the seat height, but he said it's still a little heavy for him lol
I think I need to get a Monokey universal plate for it and use the old V47 topbox - the little 32ltr box struggles to take my Kappa flip-lid and a disc lock.
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Today one of the big bosses came over from Holland.
To officially tell us that they have decided to close our warehouse in the UK
So basically we are being made redundant at the end of March 2026.
At 64 it is not an ideal situation. Originally my Retirement was 65 but now it’s 67 !!
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That's a kick in the plums and no mistake ! On the bright side you've got a decent amount of time to decide what to do ? Good luck in whatever direction you take :thumb:
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That's crap Asmith. Hope things work out for you
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Asmith61,
Good forklift drivers are always in demand , good luck :thumb:
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I would suggest getting an Independent Financial Advisor to have a look at you circumstances. I was very surprised when I had my 'numbers crunched' by ours and could retire at 58. You may be pleasantly surprised :thumb:
P.S. they must be fully independent to be worth a light...
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Hope it works out well for you ASmith61
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Thank you all very much :thumb:
2112 I will get a independent financial advisor cheers for that :thumb:
nigel s I went to this job ( 17 years ago ) with a forklift licence, and we have had forklift refresher tests every few years, (last one was last December ) but I believe It was an internal one? Not sure if it counts for a new job ? But I will check it out :thumb:
It is a kick in the plumbs as the company has been going for 60 years ( it is still going to be operating abroad ) just not in the UK !!!!
3 more years would have done me :icon_batterup:
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Today, I took my poorly mate over to the Northumbria Wheelchair Centre in Seaton Delaval to get fitted up for a new wheelchair. He's withered away so much that he's literally flopping about in the one he's got at the moment. The wheelchair specialist we saw was very keen, on the ball and had actually read Alec's notes, a rare treat! She grasped the urgency and measured him up for a 'custom' chair (they actually just adjust a standard chair to fit your dimensions) and a special cushion to help prop him up a bit. It should be with him by the end of the week with a bit of luck although I may have to pop over & pick it up. Even more surprising was the offer of a motorised wheelchair as well, that was totally unexpected. This will be a 'pusher operated' rather than a 'patient operated' type, but it will mean he can get out the house a bit locally - if we can keep him warm enough. He complained about being cold on the way there despite the heated seat on high and the heating on 25c! I guess he's just getting tempreture sensitive?
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Today we received the last of our RHI (Renewable Heat Incentive) payments. I can't believe it's been 7 years since we had our air source heat pump installed, where does the time go ? It's been 100% reliable over that period with an annual service around April time. We opted for the optional heat metering package too, which netted an additional payment above the standard rate. Over that period we've achieved a heatpump CoP (Coefficient of Performance) of 2.45, so for every kW of electricity we've used we've generated 2.45kW of heat. That's OK but smaller heatpumps are even more efficient, we have the largest single phase heat pump you can get (15kW thermal output) to meet the heating load of our bungalow. Very happy with the results and the house has always been pleasantly warm every winter.