Hi. My name is Andrew also. I am 67,and passed my motorcycle test 6 months ago. I’ve had a lot of negative comments about me having a midlife crises too!. Riding a 1050 triumph, the experience at my age is amazing. I intend to travel all over Europe once I’ve gained enough experience. Greetings from 🇬🇧.
I’ve returned to riding after 43 years of not riding, had a nasty crash when 19, a drunk driver destroyed my bike and almost me….anyway fast forward from age 19 to age 62, now, I bought a Honda NC750DCT last year…yes I am a fair weather rider…I have all my gear….I love riding, just for fun these days….as for a mid life crisis…hehe it would have been if I had not bought my bike….I tend to have a crisis every bloody year, so what’s new.,.,I’ll buy my toys and enjoy them….as you should as well, have fun, ride safe….and just potter around ….life is for living….and any bike you buy, is the very best bike there is…cheers..
First time I sat on a motorcycle I was 59 years old. I have not got off it since, 72 now and have rode over about three quarters of North America. No plans on stopping till I physically cannot. Best decision I ever made.
Excellent tale. I'm just back on a bike after 45 years. I'm 68 now, had my w800 two and a half years now; still learning . I'm a better rider now than when I was young- thanks to TH-cam 👌🏽
Hey Andy, I'm Dave. 41 years old. Riding 7 years now and got a big bike. Just remember mate it isn't about what you ride its about the journey and the way it makes you feel. Never too old to learn to ride. Be safe out there brother and happy riding. 🙂
Brilliant! You're seriously doing very well for so few miles under your belt. The slow work looks very promising. I turn 70 in a few days and ride 100-150 miles daily in the mountains, canyons, etc. My wife asked me why I ride every day there's no ice on the road and I said, "It's the only thing in my life that brings me joy every time without fail". We older men, especially, need to have direct access to as much joy regularly as humanly possible.
@@SoupDragon63 It stung but, as an attorney, she knew she'd heard the truth and that there was no way for her to counter that without seeming self-centered and petty. I, in turn, have always allowed her to do whatever she wants whenever she wants and have encouraged her to do so. (She fought me buying a motorcycle for 20 years. I now have four) It's always a compromise. Women do tend to attempt to keep their men having fun doing anything that doesn't include them...a power thing. But, when we as men empower them to have a life outside of us it can defuse that to a survivalable level.
I passed DAS at age 56, 2 years ago, and have enjoyed my 11,000 mile motorcycling journey immensely! Well done for getting started, maintain the bubble around you, observe the road ahead and manage your speed. 🙏👍
Welcome to biking, I'm 68 and have been riding since 1972, it's good to see someone taking it up. Just get out as much as you can and enjoy. I'm not a big cruiser fan, but that's a good looking bike with a nice exhaust note.
What I took from this video was your enthusiasm for riding, once you’ve got a few miles under your belt it’ll all become second nature. Just assume you’re invisible to everyone in a car and ride accordingly and you’ll be good. It’s always great to see people getting into motorcycles, it’s a great community and you’ll love it. Stay safe and see you on the road 🏍️
Welcome to the world of bikes. My biggest bit of advice is to build your skills and go at your own pace. Bigger bikes will come and with them is more fun but also higher risk. Take care bud and ride safe
One absolute golden rule……always, always do your life saver look…..when pulling away from lights, from a standstill, do your life saver after your mirror signal manoeuvres, then just before turning right, another lifesaver over your right shoulder….turning left , I do a quick over left shoulder look before turning….it’s so important to look far ahead and around you…..Lifesaver….think that all the time…..cheers
Congratulations Andrew and as someone else has already said "welcome to the world of motor homing and motorcycling." I've been riding continuously now for 36 years and I'm the wrong side of 75 as is my wife who still rides pillion on our Moto Guzzi V85 TT. Slow riding is the most difficult part of motorcycling, the way to do it is to set your engine speed (revs) a bit more than a fast tick over if you're on an incline you'll need a few more revs and keep the revs constant, then control your speed with the clutch and the rear (foot) brake. Keep your four fingers and thumb round the throttle and away from the front brake lever. A good way to practice is to have someone walking at the side of you and ask them to keep changing their pace between a slow and a very fast walk then you stay with them using just the clutch and the rear brake, you may have done it this way on your CBT. Claire could do this but don't run over her, she's very precious! Biking is fabulous and we're a complete biker family, one son in law is a bike cop (highly skilled) the other is a blood biker and bike vlogger (uneasy rider) and my 21 year old grandson passed his Mod 2 only yesterday (5/9/24) My daughter (married to the bike cop) has had her own bikes but has now hung up her gear. Both sons in law and my grandson are heading to Spain and the mountains at the end of the month. For the first time I'm not going with them, their skills have surpassed mine, it's a age thing! Enjoy biking and stay safe.
Hi, This info is invaluable so thankyou very much Great idea to get Claire to help with that practice, will do that! Loving the Biker family, this is great to read. Ultimate goal will be to bike around Europe... you never know, watch this space Thank you and happy Friday
Thanks alot...I'm also a 53 years new bicker..I bought SCR 950 Yamaha 2017 days ago ...slow speed was difficult to me when I turned back the road..your comments open my mind for the rear breaks...thank you so much..people like me who's reading the comments will appreciate your knowledge and experience..😊 wish a happy riding 🌴💐🇸🇦
I bought my first motorbike at age 19. I am now about to turn 56 and I am without a motorbike, but if I could afford one, I'd be riding a Royal Enfield Continental GT650. Ride safely!
Really enjoyed this! I jumped on a bike at 52 years after a 30 year break and absolutely love it. I don’t have to ride cos I’m lucky to have a car too. I got a little 400 and did a bit of messing about locally. If you get a chance to ride on dirt or gravel - do it! It will help your skills so much. When you can feel the bike sliding around you learn very quickly how to smooth the controls, adjust your weight and move the bars to compensate so that when this happens on the road you are much better prepared. Now riding a BMW R9T which was incredible value 2nd hand and is literally a teen dream that I had completely accepted would never be reality. Mid-life adventures not crises. ✌🏼
Well done for taking up biking and welcome to the family! Cracking first bike, I had a keeway k-light 125 for 2 years before and it's been perfect, I'm sure this will serve you well. The training and experience I got on the 125 helped me a lot preparing for the full license, so I applaud your choice of being humble and starting from a small bike
Well done. Don't let any of us Americans give you a hard time about the "smaller" bike. That is a perfect sized bike to learn with and I like the looks. Take your time and have fun.
What a great beginner bike! I wish they sold them here in the USA. Americans have a size complex. Many freeways have a minimum size of 150cc which puts us out of step with the rest of the world. We also don’t have levels. A motorcycle endorsement earned on a 125 is valid on a 1900cc Harley. Crazy! When I started it was on a 70, then a 90 followed by a 175 then a 250. My first “real” street bike was a 650 twin. In the US it is not uncommon for a first bike to be an 883 or 1200 Sportster. You are doing the right way. Keep up the good work!
@@BlueRidgeRider It's NOT a beginner bike. It's nimble and good for commuting and exploring the narrow winding roads in the UK while sipping at the fuel. Small bikes are good to learn on, but small bikes are not only for beginners. The more experience you get the more you appreciate the small bikes. If you need to go 200 km/h on the Autobahn it is different, but big bikes with more than 47 HP are not necessary in the UK and in the USA.
@@fuglbirdyou misunderstood. My bikes range from a 150 to a 1250, total of six currently. A cool V-Twin 125 is the perfect bike for a beginner. I would never label a bike as beginner “only”. Just as an ADV can be a good highway touring bike. In fact 93% of all BMW GSs never get dirt on their tires. Slap a windshield and bags on a cruiser and it becomes a touring bike. I just rode my 30 horsepower 450 on a 3500 mile round trip. Was it the best bike for the journey? Of course not. Here in the US we have some 80 mph freeways that everyone does 90 mph. While 47 hp can go that fast, 100+ is more suited.
Refreshing video by a proper nice bloke/couple. Realist and genuine way of thinking. It’s easy to lose your head with bikes and some bikers out there. You my friend, will live a lot longer on bikes with your grounded outlook on your journey.
Age 46 thought one day I wouldn’t mind learning to ride a bike, booked my cbt got a 125cc, done 6000 miles over a 10 months. Went for the assessment day (1 hour) because I had done so much practice only needed one day out training did mod 1 and mod 2 the next day. When out and got a tiger 900 rally pro. 8000 miles done Never looked back the best thing I’ve ever done.
As a fellow recent eBike (legal) rider I do understand that keeping up with traffic is such a large part of the safety thing when on the road. I always feel the need for a bit of extra speed so the other traffic don't cut me off on roundabouts etc. I'm striving for a Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650.
Well done Andy from another camper vaner / biker ...... My advice when on the bike would be, treat everyone on the road as an idiot. This mindset will give you a fighting chance of survival. 👍
Congrats on starting your biking journey, and a great video too. At 50 I got a 125 scooter during lockdown to commute, and then onto a manual CBR125. I rode this for a year to get used to the gears and the busy London roads, once passed my full licence I went for a Triumph speed twin 900, as I too like the retro look and I love it. Not so much commuting now but weekend ride outs. Enjoy the freedom, so pleased I did it.
Forget what other people say just get out and enjoy your self. Remember ride like every other bugger on the road is out to kill you. Concentrate on your surroundings and the feelings the bike imparts to you. Have fun!
Don’t let anyone tell you that you need a bigger bike. Just think for yourself and buy what you need and can use. Went from a 650 to a 1000 cc ADV after I got my license at 53. But that kind of power I don’t need so I now have a 200 cc Aprilia scooter to take the missus for sightseeing and visit historic villages. For my ‘hooligan’ feeling I also have a 457 cc Aprilia RS 457 which is fast enough to not loose my license in first gear.
@@lostinspace013 depends why and where you use the bike. On motorways a 125cc can be dangerously underpowered. If you drvie in town or rural roads a 125 cc is fine.
@@dutchdryfly In town ? Agree. But anywhere outside the town - nope. And of course you won't limit yourself to driving only in the city. You'll go outside the city at least once in a while. And you'll always have to overtake something. Trucks are mainly outside the city.
It was an unexpected dream come true when my wife told me that for my 60th birthday, I could buy me a motorcycle. Enjoyed how my son already passed all his tests and bought a Yamaha 700. So, at the age of 60, having the license for 40 years, I bought myself an Versys 650. Enjoyed every km on it.
At age 55 I also just started riding on a Versy 650 (2008) about a month ago. I don't have anything to compare it with, but she looks brand new, had only 9k miles on her, and was only $3,000. She handles everything from dirt roads to highways. I love her. What a great bike.
Hi Andy, Just came across a video of yours and am still watching them! Really enjoying your biking adventure mate.I recently gained my full licence aged 56. Bought myself a Yamaha XJ600N and loving it. Still have a Yamaha XSR125 and a 125 cruiser, a Sinnis Hoodlum. I have subscribed to your channel and am looking forward to following your biking adventure.
Superb Andrew! We are so looking forward to your biking journey. Both of us have done the same and can relate to you learning on the hoof! Glad you bought a brand new bike cos most second hand 125s are shite 😂😂 and really can't wait for the next episode and just a little tip....slip the clutch more when going slowly, it won't hurt it like a car clutch because it lives in oil. Finally loving the V twin engine, I am a big fan of them. All the best Andy & Lyn.
Love how enthusiastic your Mrs is. Loved the commentary. I have my cbt but my wife needs convincing yet. I want to do the same as you and get a 125, then do the DA course next.
Enjoy👏 Passed my Motorcycle Test in 1968, now age 73 & sadly no bike in the garage nowadays, just have two cars and our Autotrail Motorhome, did surprise the wife 3 years ago when I bought a Honda 125 to carry on back of Motorhome but she went beserk & made me sell it straight away😂 Off down touring in Spain for 3 months in 10 days so it’s just my eBike on the back rack
Just seen your visor problem in rain ect. The cure is to clean it all with Vingar white or brown no matters. tiny drop of fairy liquid clean cotton cloth to dry. stops the steaming up. Just like all windows and mirrors too.
When I turn 50 and had the midlife crisis I bought a convertible BMW, loved every minute of driving it ❤ and you can't fall off of it!! 😂 enjoy your biking and stay safe
Enjoy your journey Andrew. Do things because you want or need to do them within the bounds of the law and your own ability. 40, 60 or a 1000 people will tell you what bike is best but always buy for you. I ride on road and off road and forty years later still learn. Again enjoy the ride and look after Claire its good to see she is interested too.
Hi, Karel here from Czechia! I did my licence last year when I was 40. Than I directly headed to Harley Davidson store and bought my first bike - Sportster 883R 😁. Some says that this is a little Harley, but when I ask about their very first bike, I hear only silence 😆. Honesly I love this bike so much that I'm leaving my car at home from middle of February. Do you know what is interresting about people like us? We have no prejudices and we don't care about a lot of things. Someone who grew up in a motorcycle family and has been riding since they were 21 will tell you that you can never have an automatic, ABS, chain or belt, open helmet or turn signal levers on each side of the handlebars... For those of us who got our motorcycle licenses later, WE DON'T CARE! 😎
Welcome to the club Andrew :) Hone your road craft on the puddle jumper then get your DAS done next summer. A whole new world opens up for you when your unrestricted. There's a Triumph Tiger out their with your name on it. You're giving me Tiger vibes. My only tips are as follows: Remember that your not Carl Fogarty so resist the temptation to spank her (the bike that is) until you master the basics. Road markings and manhole covers are not your friend. Avoid them where possible. Do your braking BEFORE you enter bends. Practice counter steering. It was never taught to me when I done my full licence and it's a skill you will require on a more powerful bike. Lastly but very importantly, DO NOT scrimp on your lid. Buy the best helmet you can possibly afford. You can't put a price on the auld noggin! I see so many young'uns running about with plastic AliExpress go faster helmets and it puts the fear of god into me. Stay safe mate :)
Welcome to a very exclusive club. Hopefully you're a quick learner, I think the most important thing to learn is watch out for fuel spillage on the roads and especially at garage forecourts, you can see it immediately with it's rainbow colours, if you see this ride around it. Manhole and drain covers on bends are especially ones to avoid and watch out for the idiots who will see you coming but still pull out regardless. Also when filtering through traffic, do it with caution as this new generation of car drivers don't like the fact bikes can filter so they will lessen the gap between their vehicle and the one next to them. I would also tell you to ride taking the centre position in your lane to discourage cars over taking when you're doing the speed limit. Enjoy your first bike and make sure you can be seen, if all your gear and your bike is black your gonna have a problem and the other road users love the I didn't see you excuse, so wear a reflective shoulder to waist high vis strap and arm bands day and night times especially. As a 65 year old I've been riding since I was 19 and never had an accident, and the reason is simple, don't take risks and don't get involved in Street cred mentality. Good luck. Stay safe.
Hi Andy welcome to motorcycling. My advice is spend a year or so on the 125 and learn the craft and the bike test will be a breeze. Get on a car park and practice practice the main thing Enjoy yourself. All the best Keith
64, west of Seattle, and in July I got a beautiful Pearl Green ‘22 CB500X with 1800 miles on craigslist, two states away for a fair price. And spent the last two months up and down the West Coast camping, vagabonding, hosteling, and using Bunk-a-Biker - it was *amazing* and can’t wait for next summer :-) I just got back a week ago. This is after about 40 years of not riding. I used to ride to high school on a ‘76 CB350. I researched the hell out of what I wanted, and decided to go bigger. I will not lie, the first few days were pretty iffy, and I felt and looked like a newborn Bambi. I didn’t really lose my skills partly, I think, because my head has always somewhat been in motorcycling, and I’ve been mountain biking the last few decades. But I’m not sure I can recommend going immediately up to a midsize bike as a wise move. My motorcycle license endorsement never lapsed, so I wasn’t required to take any training. Again, maybe not ideal for everyone. The bike is a smaller midsize ADV, and weighs 440 pounds stock. It has full Rally Raid and Motech crash protection, and I got soft panniers and bags from Nelson Rigg and Motech. I haven’t dropped it yet, but my slow speed skills have left me a bit terrified at times, especially in the first few weeks. I do not have a speed demon in my soul, I take everything slowly, I remember that I am invisible. I also ordered a stealth muffler from FUEL (U.K.), an awesome small 🇬🇧 company. I definitely recommend this bike for long touring with some off-road to anyone. It does everything pretty well, it’s perfect for me. Good deals are around, because people (esp. retirees) buy bikes like these in droves and often then decide they don’t want them. I was super-careful and bought from a solid seller. As I said, I researched the hell out of this whole process, and it served me well. I hope this helps someone with their 🏍️ quest. May you have as much fun and success as I’ve had thus far.
If you like it, then it's OK. It's a great commuter. Get it weatherproofed right away because it'll dissolve during the winter. Leather is porous... you'll need waterproofs. Never skimp on a helmet - if you've got a £50 head, get a £50 helmet. Controls will come in time. Spend at least a year on your 125, it's a good investment in the future. People have gone round the world on a 90cc bike. I went from Manchester to Croatia on a 250 Vespa. 🤣 More than anything, ride your own ride. Don't be tempted to go faster than you are capable of, same goes for buying high capacity bikes. Other than that...enjoy! Oh, join a local club that's 125 friendly. It's always nice to ride with pals.
Welcome, Kevin has it about right . A can of ACF 50, a bike cover and a good noisy chain and locks if you ever decide to leave it on your drive! And nothing beats practice . Good luck enjoy 🏍️
My follow-up to watching your other videos. I wondered about the "CBT" course you talk about. I looked it up and comparing it to what's in America, we take a written 'permit' test and practice on any size bike our own for up to a year. Then during that year take a non-mandatory MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course to acquire a certificate for the license. Or, we just go to a vehicle licensing department and cold test.
Hey mate, different bikes are horses for courses, I still nod at any biker. My last bike was an RF900R in 2010 and 2 years ago I bought a GSX1250 and at 70, I'm loving it. Keep practicing and enjoy your rides more and more.
I never knew there is a twin cylinder 125cc bike on the UK market! I did my Direct Access at 35 and now ride my Honda NC750X DCT all through the year 🤘 Great for Commuting and travelling all round the UK in the summer months! My favourite multi purpose motorcycle! I wish you luck on your journey to full access 🤘
You are doing it right. This took me back to when I was a boy, the first time on a bike and learning the ropes. You will get there and from hereon those bikes are going to become bigger. Mark my words... Have fun and enjoy!
Good on you mate. I got my licence a few years ago in my mid 40s. One of the best things I’ve ever done. Started on a Suzuki TU250x. Loved that bike. Now on an XSR700 and loving it even more. Enjoy.
Welcome to two wheels, I know your going to love it. You're never too old to start riding, and you are at an age when you know your vulnerabilities, which is a great start to staying safe on the road. It's also an ideal size to put on the back of the motorhome, which will improve your overall touring experience. Cheers.
I started riding with my father on the pillion seat when I was 5, I then rode my first motorcycle at 12 and I’m now 37. Keep going, he cautions and you’ll have a load of fun ;-)
Hi Andrew, I did my CBT last year aged 50. I bought a keeway K light which was good. .This year in April I did my full license and now have a triumph speed master. My bike journey is a bit the same as yours. Definitely a good idea to get experience on the road. Enjoy!
Definately recommend going down the 125 route, I've made some mistakes that on something bigger would have been a crash. Im 44 and bought the same bike I'm hoping your loving it.
Nice bike and never too old to join the amazing world of motorcycles and the sense of freedom. I would have taken the direct access route and gone straight for the bigger bike. You’ve very soon gonna out grow that 125.
Good for you, a whole new adventures is about to open up for you 👍👍. I've been away from motorcycling for many years and recently just retired. I decided to return to motorcycling, and 5 weeks ago, I bought a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 twin. OMG I love it...... A modern classic which has plenty of power for me, rides lovely, looks excellent, and wherever I go, it turns heads. Good luck on your new journey of fun......❤
Well done! I've got my CBT booked later this month so I'll be watching you for tips. I'm 52 and feel like I'm too old but I don't care I want to give it a go so bring it on! Good luck and stay safe.
Brilliant .... Live your dreams and enjoy no matter what you ride you'll have a lot of willy waivers tell you sport's bike do get that get this just remember its your dream's enjoy .....brilliant looking forward to seeing more content 👍🙏
That’s a good looking 125. I did the direct access when I was late twenties, I’m 58 now. If you’re fairly confident on the bike you’ll nail the direct access, because of the experience you have on the road from driving cars. Ride defensively and expect everyone to pull out on you! I’ve been riding all year round for over 30 years and I still have a lot to learn. I’d also recommend an advanced riding course when you pass your test. Good luck 👍
I'm building a 42 year old dt175, it should look like the benelli thing when I'm done, no license yet, ridin heaps as a country boy tho. I kinda just want a really light motard bike. These vids inspire me to just do it
That is a nice bike Andy and you made the right decision in not doing a direct access because i did the DA and because I had a CBT I was thrown on to a 500CC Honda and I s..t myself with the power difference and it made me nervous. Take your time and get used to the bike you have and take lessons when you feel happy to step up. The best way to learn to ride slow is to ask Clare to get you some stabilisers and you've cracked it, lol.
Great vid mate! No you’re never too old to start riding. I’m 71 been riding since I was 16 and love my Harley even if I’m a ‘fair weather rider’ lol keep it up and enjoy every moment as I’m sure you will!
It'll be good to follow your journey, I can re-live mine! My mate convinced me to hire an Enfield an travel around the foothills of the Himalayas when I was around 36. A couple of years later I was flying over the Alps and could just make out the ribbons of grey running through the mountains and decided I was going to ride them. Took my direct access soon after and bought a Honda Shadow 750, and took the missus around the Alps. I've been on quite a few more trips since then. I'm 55 years old now. Got rid of my motorbike 6 years ago to buy a campervan. I had a love/hate relationship with bikes, as I'm a shorter rider and found bikes a little too big and heavy to be comfortable. Then a couple of months ago I was browsing out of curiosity and found the Honda Rebel 500. A bike made for me. Gonna get one next Spring and go on more trips. Good luck!
I did the exact same thing! I was E-biking to work and it lite a flame. Last year at 47 years old I did the A licence and Have a Vstrom and a VFR800F - love it. Your bike looks lovely.
Forward controls are great for the first 25 miles. The seat looks comfy but in that 25 miles your tailbone starts to complain but you can’t adjust your seating position while riding. That’s why mid controls will win comfort seating because you can put your weight on the pegs to shift your mass around which you can’t do with forward controls.
I passed the course here in California earlier this year and got my license. Getting a bike really soon at 47 . 🏍️ I’ve been riding with my Dad for decades.
Massive respect buddy. I am 63 but 5 years ago a did my cbt and loved it as my husband of 40 years has ridden bikes all his life,I wanted to experience it for myself. I rode a Yamaha 125 for two years after being a pillion for years but I after a few bad experiences with car drivers,I decided to go back to being a pillion on my husband’s bike. I sincerely hope you continue with your dream and ride safe. I absolutely love going away on our bike. We have a trailer which we take on the back of our motorhome. Love it. 👏👏👍✊.
I learned to ride last year at 56 years. I got a 200 cc KTM. Cruiser ergonomics don't work for me. That little V-twin is interesting and sounds pretty nice! Give no mind to what others think of your bike. Ride it lots, keep your head in the experience to stay safe, and enjoy!
Hi Andy, brilliant so glad for you, I have been riding motorcycles since I was 16 and iam 70 next birthday, gone from Honda 90 to 1300 Yamaha with other bikes in between and now got a royal Enfield 350 hunter and a 350 bullet, my wife used to tour all over Europe on the back of me but now no longer able so I just ride solo, you take it steady and as already stated treat other road users as numptys and they have not seen you, so glad for you, I have just started vlogging so a learning curve for me there, looking forward to viewing your progress best of luck Ted Morecambe bay lad alias Bay Bimbler
That bike looks so grand. Congrats. I'm about to start learning in my 40s, and yeah it is a bit of a crisis for me, as I've quite lost the spark to be in this world at times. If riding can help you feel more alive before it's all said and done then good on you.
Not at all. I was aged 57 when I got my full A licence. Regret not having done it years ago. Still hoping I might ride through Northern Spain and into Portugal. Life is only limited by your imagination.
I did more or less the same thing. I am 47, and just got an M1 in the states, after having ridden pedal bikes, and then class 2 ebikes, and then a class 3 ebike. As the ebike rules are different in the states, the class 3 ebike is a 30mph bike, so going from that to a motorcycle scooter was not all that different. I ended up with an electric 125cc equivilent (because I really really wanted an electric for my shorter neighborhood jaunts), and a Yamaha XMax 300, which has a bit more punch on demand, as well as range/cargo space. I am loving the bikes. I did go with scooters instead of "motorcycles", as I didn't care about learning to manage a clutch, and wanted something that was more like the twist and go ebikes I was already riding on. It helps that I live in California and we don't really experience much in the way of "weather", so pretty much can bike year round here. Enjoy the journey, mate. :)
@@bikerofatlantis hah, it is “frigid” here if it gets down to 41F (5C). My problem this last week has been that it has been over 100F (38C) in OCTOBER, which makes the protective gear a bit unpleasant to wear the other way. We will get some rain over the “winter” months, but it’s also not uncommon to have 75F (24C) and sunny in January here. You are definitely going to win on riding in poor weather conditions. Lol.
Congrats on the new ride! That is one of the nicest looking 125s I've seen, great choice! I totally get the feeling of the initial expenditure being a bit steep, but trust me, it gets easier from here. Once you've got the basics covered, you can replace bits of gear over time instead of having to fork out for a full set all at once. Enjoy the journey and ride safe!
Hi. I’ve been riding since I was 16, I’m now 48 and loved every day of it. Welcome to the world of 2 wheels. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have and still continue to do so. Take care out there.
A refreshing video watching you start out as a new "mature" rider. Excellent to hear your wife commenting while you rode. I haven't heard that done before. Your bike looks very cool and it's a 125, wow.
Nice first bike, looks lovely too 👍🏼. I’ve had a few bikes over last 20 yrs now on a lovely cruiser - Kawasaki VN 900 custom 👌 I would recommend you find a Bikesafe course, normally run by the Police, teaches you to ride safely, and swiftly
I've got my full licence but a friend of mine picked up his R licence here in Oz at the age of 72 and he's loving it, wants to get a Bobber now 🙂 Go for it 👍
I do like how this bike tells you what gear you’re in. The keeway superlite doesn’t, so it can be difficult to remember what gear you’re in, or whether it has changed
Hi mate. Good to see you enjoying the bike. Im from Barnsley. Passed my test last year. The slow stuff was the hard part for me. If you fancy a ride out sometime feel free to join us.
I will be 55 this month. Started riding three years ago. Had a few close calls and almost quit. But once its in your DNA hard to step away. Be safe and keep your head on a swivel. Check those intersections. Have fun.
Love it. Just starting my own CBT process and similar age. Been asking my self the same questions and trying to keep my wife happy, but always wanted to do it. I'll watch your prgress with great intersest! Good luck!!
After not riding a bike for over 30 years I got the urge to ride again and had rusty rider training and after a while I brought a triumph 660 sport and recently test rode the triumph rocket 3 after owning my bike for a year at the age of 61. Absolutely love it and is great for mental health. Enjoying your progress you are doing well.Stay safe 😊
@@bikerofatlantis its nice to see you starting from scratch, it's going to be a journey I think many will follow. You don't come across cocky & know it all.. purchase wisely, something's you grow out of quickly. The most underrated bike is the Vstrom 1050 I think..
43 here and about to do my Direct Access from little experience (apart from helping a mate build an old 2 stroke when i was 16). Wife thinks I'm mad but I'm sure she'll jump on soon for a few adventures. Looking at a Versys. My long term aim is to go through Europe down to Sicily and get the ferry over to Malta. I have a long term friend there who is a biker and the plan is to go riding with her. I'm just a little excited!
Keep the bike videos coming along side your St Chris videos 😊 Me and my partner (in our late 30s) both completed our DAS earlier this year over a week, neither of us had ridden before and it’s the best thing we have done. I went for an Indian Scout Bobber, and my partner got an Indian Scout Sixty. We both found motorcycle lessons uk youtube really helpful when it came to general riding advice and passing our MOD1 and 2. Ride safe 👊
Well done you Andy. I started at age 57 in 2023. Got my 125cc CBT a year and 10 days ago. Had a Yamaha MT125 that I used to practice manoeuvres on. So I think you're doing the right thing by starting small and gaining confidence. As an incentive I bought a Vulcan 650 S last December. I had to do another CBT for big bikes, and the official tests while it languished in my garage waiting on me. If you like the cruiser style, I wholeheartedly recommend a Vulcan when you're ready. It'll be a lot cheaper than a Harley or an Indian. And it's no slouch. I adore mine. ...Ride safe now.
I did the same when I was 39. Always wanted to have a bike and thought, now or never. I passed it all in a 6 week period. My first bike was a Harley 883. I love the classic looking bikes. 5 years on, I've just upgraded to a Triump Bobber. You'll love it.
Started riding around 4 years ago at the age of 46. One of the best things I've ever done. Also had a Keeway (although a more naked sports style one) while I was moving from CBT to full access and never had any problems with it
Congratulations 👍👍👍 Every journey starts somewhere. I started on a 650 VStrom went to a Triumph Trophy SE, now I own the triumph Trophy, triumph Bonnie T120, Aprilia Mana and an Indian Chieftain which is a tank 😎😎 happy riding and like many will tell you ride at your comfort level not someone else’s. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
I'm going through almost the exact same process right now, did my CBT about a month ago and have my Mod 1 tomorrow. Like you I found slow speed riding really challenging and still make the occasional mistake, especially when coming to a stop when my brain can't decide which foot to put down or I grab the front brake to hard. I hired a 125 from a local motobike hire place and have put in around 200 miles on it since my CBT, I have to say its been invaluable to learn the muscle memory for all the things you need to think about as it seems so overwhelming at first. When doing my Mod 1 training the one thing I found is that the larger bike (MT07) was weirdly a lot easier to get to grips with than the 125, the lower centre of gravity really helps with balance. I also watched all the videos on @MotoEcosse channel which have been absolutely invaluable. Best of luck on your journey, have fun and ride safe!
I got my license a few months before turning 52. I started on a Honda CBR300R. 7 months later go my dream bike, a Triumph Street Triple 765R. I turned 59 a few months ago and have added a Harley Sport Glide and the in February, a Triumph Tiger 850 Sport. It’s addictive. Happy riding
Hi, I'm 47 and am just coming to the end of my first year of riding. I've done 15k miles in 4 countries with many commuter miles in and out of London. My first bike is a Tiger 900 GT Pro. I went straight into a 7 day Direct Access course at Royston BMW. To this day I've still not ridden a 125 and never had to use L plates. No regrests :-) You do need deep pockets to go the route I did, training, gear, the bike and insurance all hits you in one go. My advice is don't skimp on cheeper stuff because you will only end up having to rebuy later anyway. I also recommend joining a local bike club as it opens you up to opportunities that you might otherwise not have access to and you get to meet new people.
Hi. My name is Andrew also. I am 67,and passed my motorcycle test 6 months ago. I’ve had a lot of negative comments about me having a midlife crises too!. Riding a 1050 triumph, the experience at my age is amazing. I intend to travel all over Europe once I’ve gained enough experience. Greetings from 🇬🇧.
Hello Andrew. That’s an awesome bike!
The idea biking around Europe is a great one. Keep in touch with how you get on 👍
Well done, take no notice of the negative mules. Ride safe, have dun, your never to old
My father started riding in his 70s. It’s keeping him young and he loves it. Only wishes he started years earlier!
I’ve returned to riding after 43 years of not riding, had a nasty crash when 19, a drunk driver destroyed my bike and almost me….anyway fast forward from age 19 to age 62, now, I bought a Honda NC750DCT last year…yes I am a fair weather rider…I have all my gear….I love riding, just for fun these days….as for a mid life crisis…hehe it would have been if I had not bought my bike….I tend to have a crisis every bloody year, so what’s new.,.,I’ll buy my toys and enjoy them….as you should as well, have fun, ride safe….and just potter around ….life is for living….and any bike you buy, is the very best bike there is…cheers..
@andrewparfrement8583 67, Mid life ? have you got good genes lol.
First time I sat on a motorcycle I was 59 years old. I have not got off it since, 72 now and have rode over about three quarters of North America. No plans on stopping till I physically cannot. Best decision I ever made.
Love this 👍👍 Thanks for watching
Excellent tale.
I'm just back on a bike after 45 years. I'm 68 now, had my w800 two and a half years now; still learning . I'm a better rider now than when I was young- thanks to TH-cam 👌🏽
@@frenchenstein I love the w800. So retro.
I bought my first motorcycle at 56 and don't regret it a bit. Learning new skills and enjoying new things is very much needed as we grow old.
Love to read this. I agree 👍
Hey Andy, I'm Dave. 41 years old. Riding 7 years now and got a big bike. Just remember mate it isn't about what you ride its about the journey and the way it makes you feel. Never too old to learn to ride. Be safe out there brother and happy riding. 🙂
Hi Dave, thanks for watching 👍👍
Loving the journey and agree 100%
Keep safe.
Brilliant! You're seriously doing very well for so few miles under your belt. The slow work looks very promising. I turn 70 in a few days and ride 100-150 miles daily in the mountains, canyons, etc. My wife asked me why I ride every day there's no ice on the road and I said, "It's the only thing in my life that brings me joy every time without fail". We older men, especially, need to have direct access to as much joy regularly as humanly possible.
Love this.
I am getting to grips with the bike more and can start to understand how you feel
@@bikerofatlantis Stick with it.
Truth
@@SoupDragon63 It stung but, as an attorney, she knew she'd heard the truth and that there was no way for her to counter that without seeming self-centered and petty. I, in turn, have always allowed her to do whatever she wants whenever she wants and have encouraged her to do so. (She fought me buying a motorcycle for 20 years. I now have four) It's always a compromise. Women do tend to attempt to keep their men having fun doing anything that doesn't include them...a power thing. But, when we as men empower them to have a life outside of us it can defuse that to a survivalable level.
Hi Andy beautiful looking motorcycle.Riding bikes is freedom ,it’s like flying.
Agreed, love it
I passed DAS at age 56, 2 years ago, and have enjoyed my 11,000 mile motorcycling journey immensely!
Well done for getting started, maintain the bubble around you, observe the road ahead and manage your speed.
🙏👍
Hi. Great advice. Loving the bike
Andrew welcome to the club if you ride with other riders don't let them pull you out of comfort zone enjoy the ride and ride safe
Hi this is good advice, thankyou
Wise words👍
Ride your ride not their,s
If you ride with other riders Don't let them pull you out of comfort zone 🥇👏🏻🤔 this golden advice..I appreciate it too.. Thank you David 🙂🇸🇦👍🏻🌴
Welcome to biking, I'm 68 and have been riding since 1972, it's good to see someone taking it up. Just get out as much as you can and enjoy. I'm not a big cruiser fan, but that's a good looking bike with a nice exhaust note.
Thankyou! 🏍️
What I took from this video was your enthusiasm for riding, once you’ve got a few miles under your belt it’ll all become second nature. Just assume you’re invisible to everyone in a car and ride accordingly and you’ll be good.
It’s always great to see people getting into motorcycles, it’s a great community and you’ll love it.
Stay safe and see you on the road 🏍️
Met some awesome bikers, enjoying it 👍
Welcome to the world of bikes. My biggest bit of advice is to build your skills and go at your own pace. Bigger bikes will come and with them is more fun but also higher risk. Take care bud and ride safe
Hi. Thanks for watching 👍
One absolute golden rule……always, always do your life saver look…..when pulling away from lights, from a standstill, do your life saver after your mirror signal manoeuvres, then just before turning right, another lifesaver over your right shoulder….turning left , I do a quick over left shoulder look before turning….it’s so important to look far ahead and around you…..Lifesaver….think that all the time…..cheers
Hi. Thanks for watching and thanks for this
First motorcycle when I was 60, took a full week course before getting my motorcycle. 13 years later still riding and still enjoying it.
Love it. Thanks for watching 👍
❤This is brilliant....A genuine fella (my age) Humble and doing things in a sensible manner, no showing off or trying to run before he can walk.
Hi. Thanks for this and for watching 👍
Congratulations Andrew and as someone else has already said "welcome to the world of motor homing and motorcycling."
I've been riding continuously now for 36 years and I'm the wrong side of 75 as is my wife who still rides pillion on our Moto Guzzi
V85 TT.
Slow riding is the most difficult part of motorcycling, the way to do it is to set your engine speed (revs) a bit more than a fast tick over if you're on an incline you'll need a few more revs and keep the revs constant, then control your speed with the clutch and the rear (foot) brake. Keep your four fingers and thumb round the throttle and away from the front brake lever. A good way to practice is to have someone walking at the side of you and ask them to keep changing their pace between a slow and a very fast walk then you stay with them using just the clutch and the rear brake, you may have done it this way on your CBT. Claire could do this but don't run over her, she's very precious!
Biking is fabulous and we're a complete biker family, one son in law is a bike cop (highly skilled) the other is a blood biker and bike vlogger (uneasy rider) and my 21 year old grandson passed his Mod 2 only yesterday (5/9/24) My daughter (married to the bike cop) has had her own bikes but has now hung up her gear. Both sons in law and my grandson are heading to Spain and the mountains at the end of the month. For the first time I'm not going with them, their skills have surpassed mine, it's a age thing!
Enjoy biking and stay safe.
Hi, This info is invaluable so thankyou very much
Great idea to get Claire to help with that practice, will do that!
Loving the Biker family, this is great to read. Ultimate goal will be to bike around Europe... you never know, watch this space
Thank you and happy Friday
Welcome to motorcycles. 😊
Thanks alot...I'm also a 53 years new bicker..I bought SCR 950 Yamaha 2017 days ago ...slow speed was difficult to me when I turned back the road..your comments open my mind for the rear breaks...thank you so much..people like me who's reading the comments will appreciate your knowledge and experience..😊 wish a happy riding 🌴💐🇸🇦
@@abdulazizsaleh8650 Thank you for your comments, glad you found the advice helpful.
I bought my first motorbike at age 19. I am now about to turn 56 and I am without a motorbike, but if I could afford one, I'd be riding a Royal Enfield Continental GT650. Ride safely!
Those royal endfields are beautiful 👍
“Have you overtook anyone yet?”.
“No, it’s not that type of bike”
Love it 😊
Love it 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Love the comment “Clair is very precious to me” 👌👍🏻
❤️❤️❤️☺️
not sure if your allowed a pillion on a cbt license, might want to check that out, especially with your insurance
Really enjoyed this! I jumped on a bike at 52 years after a 30 year break and absolutely love it. I don’t have to ride cos I’m lucky to have a car too. I got a little 400 and did a bit of messing about locally. If you get a chance to ride on dirt or gravel - do it! It will help your skills so much. When you can feel the bike sliding around you learn very quickly how to smooth the controls, adjust your weight and move the bars to compensate so that when this happens on the road you are much better prepared. Now riding a BMW R9T which was incredible value 2nd hand and is literally a teen dream that I had completely accepted would never be reality. Mid-life adventures not crises. ✌🏼
This sounds fab, thanks for watching and sharing
Yes please would love to see the whole journey. It was really nice to hear Clare is special to you, not a lot would admit that, ride safe
Hi thanks for watching 👍👍👍
Well done for taking up biking and welcome to the family!
Cracking first bike, I had a keeway k-light 125 for 2 years before and it's been perfect, I'm sure this will serve you well.
The training and experience I got on the 125 helped me a lot preparing for the full license, so I applaud your choice of being humble and starting from a small bike
Hi, I want to build up my confidence and loving this bike. The biker community is great
Well done. Don't let any of us Americans give you a hard time about the "smaller" bike. That is a perfect sized bike to learn with and I like the looks. Take your time and have fun.
Hi, Thankyou
What a great beginner bike! I wish they sold them here in the USA. Americans have a size complex. Many freeways have a minimum size of 150cc which puts us out of step with the rest of the world. We also don’t have levels. A motorcycle endorsement earned on a 125 is valid on a 1900cc Harley. Crazy! When I started it was on a 70, then a 90 followed by a 175 then a 250. My first “real” street bike was a 650 twin. In the US it is not uncommon for a first bike to be an 883 or 1200 Sportster. You are doing the right way. Keep up the good work!
@@BlueRidgeRider It's NOT a beginner bike. It's nimble and good for commuting and exploring the narrow winding roads in the UK while sipping at the fuel. Small bikes are good to learn on, but small bikes are not only for beginners. The more experience you get the more you appreciate the small bikes. If you need to go 200 km/h on the Autobahn it is different, but big bikes with more than 47 HP are not necessary in the UK and in the USA.
@@fuglbirdyou misunderstood. My bikes range from a 150 to a 1250, total of six currently. A cool V-Twin 125 is the perfect bike for a beginner. I would never label a bike as beginner “only”. Just as an ADV can be a good highway touring bike. In fact 93% of all BMW GSs never get dirt on their tires. Slap a windshield and bags on a cruiser and it becomes a touring bike. I just rode my 30 horsepower 450 on a 3500 mile round trip. Was it the best bike for the journey? Of course not. Here in the US we have some 80 mph freeways that everyone does 90 mph. While 47 hp can go that fast, 100+ is more suited.
Fantastic. Never too late. Been motorcycling since 16 and nearly 50 myself. Love the idea that others are still joining the club. We need more!
👍👍👍👍🏍️👍
Refreshing video by a proper nice bloke/couple. Realist and genuine way of thinking. It’s easy to lose your head with bikes and some bikers out there. You my friend, will live a lot longer on bikes with your grounded outlook on your journey.
Hi Kevin, Thanks for watching. Loving the bike life
Age 46 thought one day I wouldn’t mind learning to ride a bike, booked my cbt got a 125cc, done 6000 miles over a 10 months. Went for the assessment day (1 hour) because I had done so much practice only needed one day out training did mod 1 and mod 2 the next day.
When out and got a tiger 900 rally pro. 8000 miles done
Never looked back the best thing I’ve ever done.
Hi, This is great to read, Happy biking
As a fellow recent eBike (legal) rider I do understand that keeping up with traffic is such a large part of the safety thing when on the road. I always feel the need for a bit of extra speed so the other traffic don't cut me off on roundabouts etc.
I'm striving for a Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650.
Now that royal Enfield sounds fabulous
Well done Andy from another camper vaner / biker ...... My advice when on the bike would be, treat everyone on the road as an idiot. This mindset will give you a fighting chance of survival. 👍
I think that is probably the most sensible! Thanks for watching
good point...
Congrats on starting your biking journey, and a great video too. At 50 I got a 125 scooter during lockdown to commute, and then onto a manual CBR125. I rode this for a year to get used to the gears and the busy London roads, once passed my full licence I went for a Triumph speed twin 900, as I too like the retro look and I love it. Not so much commuting now but weekend ride outs. Enjoy the freedom, so pleased I did it.
Sounds great! Thanks for watching 👍
Forget what other people say just get out and enjoy your self. Remember ride like every other bugger on the road is out to kill you. Concentrate on your surroundings and the feelings the bike imparts to you. Have fun!
Hi. Thank you for watching 👍🏍️
Good for you man you'll love it. I bought my first bike 12 years ago when i was 53 and I'm still loving it. Age of just a number. 🏍️
Agree! Happy biking
Don’t let anyone tell you that you need a bigger bike. Just think for yourself and buy what you need and can use. Went from a 650 to a 1000 cc ADV after I got my license at 53. But that kind of power I don’t need so I now have a 200 cc Aprilia scooter to take the missus for sightseeing and visit historic villages. For my ‘hooligan’ feeling I also have a 457 cc Aprilia RS 457 which is fast enough to not loose my license in first gear.
Site seeing with the Mrs sounds great. You have the best of both worlds!!! 🏍️
Yep, he need a bigger bike. 125cc are dangerous. To weak IS dangerous. I'm being serious.
@@lostinspace013 depends why and where you use the bike. On motorways a 125cc can be dangerously underpowered. If you drvie in town or rural roads a 125 cc is fine.
@@dutchdryfly In town ? Agree. But anywhere outside the town - nope. And of course you won't limit yourself to driving only in the city. You'll go outside the city at least once in a while. And you'll always have to overtake something. Trucks are mainly outside the city.
I’m 49 and just passed my cbt 2 weeks ago, never had much interest been a pillion for 8 years. Partner bought my a sym 125 adx I love it, good fun
Sounds fab. Great to hear this. Happy biking
It was an unexpected dream come true when my wife told me that for my 60th birthday, I could buy me a motorcycle. Enjoyed how my son already passed all his tests and bought a Yamaha 700. So, at the age of 60, having the license for 40 years, I bought myself an Versys 650. Enjoyed every km on it.
Hi, This is sounds awesome. Happy to read that you are enjoying
At age 55 I also just started riding on a Versy 650 (2008) about a month ago. I don't have anything to compare it with, but she looks brand new, had only 9k miles on her, and was only $3,000. She handles everything from dirt roads to highways. I love her. What a great bike.
Hi Andy, Just came across a video of yours and am still watching them! Really enjoying your biking adventure mate.I recently gained my full licence aged 56. Bought myself a Yamaha XJ600N and loving it. Still have a Yamaha XSR125 and a 125 cruiser, a Sinnis Hoodlum. I have subscribed to your channel and am looking forward to following your biking adventure.
Hi. Thanks for subscribing and glad you found us 👍 Nice bike!!! 🏍️
Superb Andrew! We are so looking forward to your biking journey. Both of us have done the same and can relate to you learning on the hoof! Glad you bought a brand new bike cos most second hand 125s are shite 😂😂 and really can't wait for the next episode and just a little tip....slip the clutch more when going slowly, it won't hurt it like a car clutch because it lives in oil. Finally loving the V twin engine, I am a big fan of them. All the best Andy & Lyn.
Hi, This is a superb tip, thankyou
Keep them coming!
See you on the road
Love how enthusiastic your Mrs is. Loved the commentary.
I have my cbt but my wife needs convincing yet. I want to do the same as you and get a 125, then do the DA course next.
Hi. My advice. Life is too short
Do the CBT and get the 125 👍👍👍
Keep in touch
Enjoy👏
Passed my Motorcycle Test in 1968, now age 73 & sadly no bike in the garage nowadays, just have two cars and our Autotrail Motorhome, did surprise the wife 3 years ago when I bought a Honda 125 to carry on back of Motorhome but she went beserk & made me sell it straight away😂
Off down touring in Spain for 3 months in 10 days so it’s just my eBike on the back rack
Hi. A seasoned biker!
We hope to see you and your autotrail out on the road 🚐👍
Thanks for watching
Just seen your visor problem in rain ect. The cure is to clean it all with Vingar white or brown no matters. tiny drop of fairy liquid clean cotton cloth to dry. stops the steaming up. Just like all windows and mirrors too.
This is great, Thankyou 👍👍
When I turn 50 and had the midlife crisis I bought a convertible BMW, loved every minute of driving it ❤ and you can't fall off of it!! 😂 enjoy your biking and stay safe
Hi 😂 thanks for watching
Enjoy your journey Andrew. Do things because you want or need to do them within the bounds of the law and your own ability. 40, 60 or a 1000 people will tell you what bike is best but always buy for you. I ride on road and off road and forty years later still learn. Again enjoy the ride and look after Claire its good to see she is interested too.
Hi. Thankyou for this 👍👍
Hi, Karel here from Czechia! I did my licence last year when I was 40. Than I directly headed to Harley Davidson store and bought my first bike - Sportster 883R 😁. Some says that this is a little Harley, but when I ask about their very first bike, I hear only silence 😆. Honesly I love this bike so much that I'm leaving my car at home from middle of February.
Do you know what is interresting about people like us? We have no prejudices and we don't care about a lot of things. Someone who grew up in a motorcycle family and has been riding since they were 21 will tell you that you can never have an automatic, ABS, chain or belt, open helmet or turn signal levers on each side of the handlebars... For those of us who got our motorcycle licenses later, WE DON'T CARE! 😎
Hi. Czechnia!! Wow!! Welcome to this channel. Your bike is fantastic 👍👍 thanks for watching
I wish you nice wide open roads 🤗
Oooh love this. Thank you
Welcome to the club Andrew :) Hone your road craft on the puddle jumper then get your DAS done next summer. A whole new world opens up for you when your unrestricted. There's a Triumph Tiger out their with your name on it. You're giving me Tiger vibes. My only tips are as follows:
Remember that your not Carl Fogarty so resist the temptation to spank her (the bike that is) until you master the basics.
Road markings and manhole covers are not your friend. Avoid them where possible.
Do your braking BEFORE you enter bends.
Practice counter steering. It was never taught to me when I done my full licence and it's a skill you will require on a more powerful bike.
Lastly but very importantly, DO NOT scrimp on your lid. Buy the best helmet you can possibly afford. You can't put a price on the auld noggin! I see so many young'uns running about with plastic AliExpress go faster helmets and it puts the fear of god into me.
Stay safe mate :)
Hi, thanks for taking the time to send me this info. Thank you very much.
Welcome to a very exclusive club. Hopefully you're a quick learner, I think the most important thing to learn is watch out for fuel spillage on the roads and especially at garage forecourts, you can see it immediately with it's rainbow colours, if you see this ride around it. Manhole and drain covers on bends are especially ones to avoid and watch out for the idiots who will see you coming but still pull out regardless.
Also when filtering through traffic, do it with caution as this new generation of car drivers don't like the fact bikes can filter so they will lessen the gap between their vehicle and the one next to them. I would also tell you to ride taking the centre position in your lane to discourage cars over taking when you're doing the speed limit. Enjoy your first bike and make sure you can be seen, if all your gear and your bike is black your gonna have a problem and the other road users love the I didn't see you excuse, so wear a reflective shoulder to waist high vis strap and arm bands day and night times especially. As a 65 year old I've been riding since I was 19 and never had an accident, and the reason is simple, don't take risks and don't get involved in Street cred mentality. Good luck. Stay safe.
Hi Andy welcome to motorcycling. My advice is spend a year or so on the 125 and learn the craft and the bike test will be a breeze. Get on a car park and practice practice the main thing Enjoy yourself.
All the best Keith
64, west of Seattle, and in July I got a beautiful Pearl Green ‘22 CB500X with 1800 miles on craigslist, two states away for a fair price. And spent the last two months up and down the West Coast camping, vagabonding, hosteling, and using Bunk-a-Biker - it was *amazing* and can’t wait for next summer :-) I just got back a week ago.
This is after about 40 years of not riding. I used to ride to high school on a ‘76 CB350. I researched the hell out of what I wanted, and decided to go bigger. I will not lie, the first few days were pretty iffy, and I felt and looked like a newborn Bambi.
I didn’t really lose my skills partly, I think, because my head has always somewhat been in motorcycling, and I’ve been mountain biking the last few decades. But I’m not sure I can recommend going immediately up to a midsize bike as a wise move.
My motorcycle license endorsement never lapsed, so I wasn’t required to take any training. Again, maybe not ideal for everyone.
The bike is a smaller midsize ADV, and weighs 440 pounds stock. It has full Rally Raid and Motech crash protection, and I got soft panniers and bags from Nelson Rigg and Motech. I haven’t dropped it yet, but my slow speed skills have left me a bit terrified at times, especially in the first few weeks. I do not have a speed demon in my soul, I take everything slowly, I remember that I am invisible.
I also ordered a stealth muffler from FUEL (U.K.), an awesome small 🇬🇧 company.
I definitely recommend this bike for long touring with some off-road to anyone. It does everything pretty well, it’s perfect for me. Good deals are around, because people (esp. retirees) buy bikes like these in droves and often then decide they don’t want them. I was super-careful and bought from a solid seller. As I said, I researched the hell out of this whole process, and it served me well. I hope this helps someone with their 🏍️ quest. May you have as much fun and success as I’ve had thus far.
Seattle!!! Wow. Welcome to the channel and happy you found us.
Love this story, I’m loving biking 👍👍
If you like it, then it's OK. It's a great commuter. Get it weatherproofed right away because it'll dissolve during the winter. Leather is porous... you'll need waterproofs. Never skimp on a helmet - if you've got a £50 head, get a £50 helmet. Controls will come in time. Spend at least a year on your 125, it's a good investment in the future. People have gone round the world on a 90cc bike. I went from Manchester to Croatia on a 250 Vespa. 🤣 More than anything, ride your own ride. Don't be tempted to go faster than you are capable of, same goes for buying high capacity bikes. Other than that...enjoy! Oh, join a local club that's 125 friendly. It's always nice to ride with pals.
Hi 👋 we love Croatia so would love to drive there
Welcome, Kevin has it about right . A can of ACF 50, a bike cover and a good noisy chain and locks if you ever decide to leave it on your drive! And nothing beats practice . Good luck enjoy 🏍️
My follow-up to watching your other videos. I wondered about the "CBT" course you talk about. I looked it up and comparing it to what's in America, we take a written 'permit' test and practice on any size bike our own for up to a year. Then during that year take a non-mandatory MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) course to acquire a certificate for the license. Or, we just go to a vehicle licensing department and cold test.
Hi. Thanks for this and interesting to know 👍👍
Hey mate, different bikes are horses for courses, I still nod at any biker. My last bike was an RF900R in 2010 and 2 years ago I bought a GSX1250 and at 70, I'm loving it. Keep practicing and enjoy your rides more and more.
Thanks for this 👍👍
I never knew there is a twin cylinder 125cc bike on the UK market! I did my Direct Access at 35 and now ride my Honda NC750X DCT all through the year 🤘 Great for Commuting and travelling all round the UK in the summer months! My favourite multi purpose motorcycle! I wish you luck on your journey to full access 🤘
Thank you 👍👍
You are doing it right. This took me back to when I was a boy, the first time on a bike and learning the ropes. You will get there and from hereon those bikes are going to become bigger. Mark my words... Have fun and enjoy!
Thanks for this encouragement
Good on you mate. I got my licence a few years ago in my mid 40s. One of the best things I’ve ever done. Started on a Suzuki TU250x. Loved that bike. Now on an XSR700 and loving it even more. Enjoy.
Hi. Thanks for watching. Great bikes!
Welcome to two wheels, I know your going to love it. You're never too old to start riding, and you are at an age when you know your vulnerabilities, which is a great start to staying safe on the road. It's also an ideal size to put on the back of the motorhome, which will improve your overall touring experience. Cheers.
Thankyou! Have a great day
I started riding with my father on the pillion seat when I was 5, I then rode my first motorcycle at 12 and I’m now 37. Keep going, he cautions and you’ll have a load of fun ;-)
Thankyou. This is a great story 👍
Hi Andrew, I did my CBT last year aged 50. I bought a keeway K light which was good. .This year in April I did my full license and now have a triumph speed master. My bike journey is a bit the same as yours. Definitely a good idea to get experience on the road. Enjoy!
Love this, happy biking
Definately recommend going down the 125 route, I've made some mistakes that on something bigger would have been a crash. Im 44 and bought the same bike I'm hoping your loving it.
Hi. Loving the 125, it’s awesome
Nice bike and never too old to join the amazing world of motorcycles and the sense of freedom. I would have taken the direct access route and gone straight for the bigger bike. You’ve very soon gonna out grow that 125.
Thinking of sorting my DA before Christmas 👍👍
Completed my CBT @55yrs. Bought a 125. Had that for 6 months , then DAS. Passed everything 1st time and haven't looked back😊 njoy your biking 😊😊
Sounds fab. Thanks for watching 👍
Good for you, a whole new adventures is about to open up for you 👍👍. I've been away from motorcycling for many years and recently just retired. I decided to return to motorcycling, and 5 weeks ago, I bought a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 twin. OMG I love it...... A modern classic which has plenty of power for me, rides lovely, looks excellent, and wherever I go, it turns heads. Good luck on your new journey of fun......❤
Love those Royal Enfield bikes
Thanks for watching and safe riding 👍👍👍
Well done! I've got my CBT booked later this month so I'll be watching you for tips. I'm 52 and feel like I'm too old but I don't care I want to give it a go so bring it on! Good luck and stay safe.
You will love it. Keep in touch and enjoy
Not too old! Lol. It's all in the mind...and as long as you stay healthy, there will be many days of riding ahead for you.
Brilliant .... Live your dreams and enjoy no matter what you ride you'll have a lot of willy waivers tell you sport's bike do get that get this just remember its your dream's enjoy .....brilliant looking forward to seeing more content 👍🙏
Hi, thanks for watching 👍
That’s a good looking 125. I did the direct access when I was late twenties, I’m 58 now. If you’re fairly confident on the bike you’ll nail the direct access, because of the experience you have on the road from driving cars.
Ride defensively and expect everyone to pull out on you! I’ve been riding all year round for over 30 years and I still have a lot to learn.
I’d also recommend an advanced riding course when you pass your test. Good luck 👍
Thanks for this advice 👍
Will be doing an advanced training, think I’ll enjoy learning
I'm building a 42 year old dt175, it should look like the benelli thing when I'm done, no license yet, ridin heaps as a country boy tho. I kinda just want a really light motard bike. These vids inspire me to just do it
Hi. Your bike sounds fabulous!et us know how you get on
That is a nice bike Andy and you made the right decision in not doing a direct access because i did the DA and because I had a CBT I was thrown on to a 500CC Honda and I s..t myself with the power difference and it made me nervous. Take your time and get used to the bike you have and take lessons when you feel happy to step up. The best way to learn to ride slow is to ask Clare to get you some stabilisers and you've cracked it, lol.
😂😂😂😂😂 💩💨
Great vid mate! No you’re never too old to start riding. I’m 71 been riding since I was 16 and love my Harley even if I’m a ‘fair weather rider’ lol keep it up and enjoy every moment as I’m sure you will!
Thanks for watching 👍👍☀️
It'll be good to follow your journey, I can re-live mine! My mate convinced me to hire an Enfield an travel around the foothills of the Himalayas when I was around 36. A couple of years later I was flying over the Alps and could just make out the ribbons of grey running through the mountains and decided I was going to ride them. Took my direct access soon after and bought a Honda Shadow 750, and took the missus around the Alps. I've been on quite a few more trips since then. I'm 55 years old now. Got rid of my motorbike 6 years ago to buy a campervan. I had a love/hate relationship with bikes, as I'm a shorter rider and found bikes a little too big and heavy to be comfortable. Then a couple of months ago I was browsing out of curiosity and found the Honda Rebel 500. A bike made for me. Gonna get one next Spring and go on more trips.
Good luck!
The Honda sounds fab.
Thanks for watching and happy camping and biking!
@@bikerofatlantis Cheers!
I did the exact same thing! I was E-biking to work and it lite a flame. Last year at 47 years old I did the A licence and Have a Vstrom and a VFR800F - love it. Your bike looks lovely.
Safe travels
Forward controls are great for the first 25 miles. The seat looks comfy but in that 25 miles your tailbone starts to complain but you can’t adjust your seating position while riding. That’s why mid controls will win comfort seating because you can put your weight on the pegs to shift your mass around which you can’t do with forward controls.
Hi. Thanks for this. I like comfort!
I passed the course here in California earlier this year and got my license. Getting a bike really soon at 47 . 🏍️ I’ve been riding with my Dad for decades.
California! Wow. Hi, thanks for watching
Massive respect buddy. I am 63 but 5 years ago a did my cbt and loved it as my husband of 40 years has ridden bikes all his life,I wanted to experience it for myself. I rode a Yamaha 125 for two years after being a pillion for years but I after a few bad experiences with car drivers,I decided to go back to being a pillion on my husband’s bike. I sincerely hope you continue with your dream and ride safe. I absolutely love going away on our bike. We have a trailer which we take on the back of our motorhome. Love it. 👏👏👍✊.
Hi Dianne, we are thinking of getting a trailer too, great way for us to go away and do both. Safe travels
I learned to ride last year at 56 years. I got a 200 cc KTM. Cruiser ergonomics don't work for me. That little V-twin is interesting and sounds pretty nice! Give no mind to what others think of your bike. Ride it lots, keep your head in the experience to stay safe, and enjoy!
I’m loving it, thanks for watching
That is one really cool looking bike Andy, it looks menacing! Enjoy the learning curve.
Thank you 🤩
Hi Andy, brilliant so glad for you, I have been riding motorcycles since I was 16 and iam 70 next birthday, gone from Honda 90 to 1300 Yamaha with other bikes in between and now got a royal Enfield 350 hunter and a 350 bullet, my wife used to tour all over Europe on the back of me but now no longer able so I just ride solo, you take it steady and as already stated treat other road users as numptys and they have not seen you, so glad for you, I have just started vlogging so a learning curve for me there, looking forward to viewing your progress best of luck Ted Morecambe bay lad alias Bay Bimbler
Hi. Love the Royal Enfield.
Thanks so much for watching 👍 sending best wishes
That bike looks so grand. Congrats. I'm about to start learning in my 40s, and yeah it is a bit of a crisis for me, as I've quite lost the spark to be in this world at times. If riding can help you feel more alive before it's all said and done then good on you.
Thanks for watching and hey get on that bike and enjoy yourself. I’m loving the fresh air. Safe travels 👍👍👍
Not at all. I was aged 57 when I got my full A licence. Regret not having done it years ago. Still hoping I might ride through Northern Spain and into Portugal. Life is only limited by your imagination.
Do it! Let me know how you get on
I did more or less the same thing. I am 47, and just got an M1 in the states, after having ridden pedal bikes, and then class 2 ebikes, and then a class 3 ebike. As the ebike rules are different in the states, the class 3 ebike is a 30mph bike, so going from that to a motorcycle scooter was not all that different. I ended up with an electric 125cc equivilent (because I really really wanted an electric for my shorter neighborhood jaunts), and a Yamaha XMax 300, which has a bit more punch on demand, as well as range/cargo space. I am loving the bikes. I did go with scooters instead of "motorcycles", as I didn't care about learning to manage a clutch, and wanted something that was more like the twist and go ebikes I was already riding on. It helps that I live in California and we don't really experience much in the way of "weather", so pretty much can bike year round here. Enjoy the journey, mate. :)
It’s absolutely amazing to us that you are in California and we are over here in England.
Bet you don’t bet many cold and icy journeys 😂😂
@@bikerofatlantis hah, it is “frigid” here if it gets down to 41F (5C). My problem this last week has been that it has been over 100F (38C) in OCTOBER, which makes the protective gear a bit unpleasant to wear the other way. We will get some rain over the “winter” months, but it’s also not uncommon to have 75F (24C) and sunny in January here. You are definitely going to win on riding in poor weather conditions. Lol.
Congrats on the new ride! That is one of the nicest looking 125s I've seen, great choice! I totally get the feeling of the initial expenditure being a bit steep, but trust me, it gets easier from here. Once you've got the basics covered, you can replace bits of gear over time instead of having to fork out for a full set all at once. Enjoy the journey and ride safe!
It’s a cracking 125 and really enjoying driving it 👍👍👍
Hi. I’ve been riding since I was 16, I’m now 48 and loved every day of it. Welcome to the world of 2 wheels. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have and still continue to do so. Take care out there.
This is great, I’m loving it
Welcome to bike life - you enjoy it and don’t worry about what everyone else rides! And yes, you look cool 😎 Ride safe x
Hi, Loving the bike!
A refreshing video watching you start out as a new "mature" rider. Excellent to hear your wife commenting while you rode. I haven't heard that done before. Your bike looks very cool and it's a 125, wow.
Thank you 👍👍
Heyyyy
I'm loving allll of your vlogs! this new channel is great 🎉
I'm a lady biker of 35 years n look forward to this new adventure of yours 🏍️🏍️
Hi 👋 happy to read this 👍
Claire here. Love that you are a Biker ❤️❤️🏍️🏍️👍👍
Enjoy the freedom of two wheels ❤ please be safe you pair 🎉
Nice first bike, looks lovely too 👍🏼. I’ve had a few bikes over last 20 yrs now on a lovely cruiser - Kawasaki VN 900 custom 👌
I would recommend you find a Bikesafe course, normally run by the Police, teaches you to ride safely, and swiftly
Hi, Thanks for this, it is something I have considered.
I've got my full licence but a friend of mine picked up his R licence here in Oz at the age of 72 and he's loving it, wants to get a Bobber now 🙂
Go for it 👍
Love Bobbers! Thanks for watching 👍
I do like how this bike tells you what gear you’re in. The keeway superlite doesn’t, so it can be difficult to remember what gear you’re in, or whether it has changed
This 125 is a great bike 🤣👍
Hi mate. Good to see you enjoying the bike. Im from Barnsley. Passed my test last year. The slow stuff was the hard part for me. If you fancy a ride out sometime feel free to join us.
Sounds great Steve 👍
I will be 55 this month. Started riding three years ago. Had a few close calls and almost quit. But once its in your DNA hard to step away. Be safe and keep your head on a swivel. Check those intersections. Have fun.
Thankyou for watching 👍
Love it. Just starting my own CBT process and similar age. Been asking my self the same questions and trying to keep my wife happy, but always wanted to do it. I'll watch your prgress with great intersest! Good luck!!
Hi, thanks for watching 👍👍
After not riding a bike for over 30 years I got the urge to ride again and had rusty rider training and after a while I brought a triumph 660 sport and recently test rode the triumph rocket 3 after owning my bike for a year at the age of 61. Absolutely love it and is great for mental health. Enjoying your progress you are doing well.Stay safe 😊
Hi 👋 I’m loving the bike and thanks for watching 👍
@@bikerofatlantis , get that Rocket 3 , recommend the GT
What a very enjoyable set of videos. A very refreshing look at someone's motorcycle journey ❤
Glad you enjoyed it!
@@bikerofatlantis its nice to see you starting from scratch, it's going to be a journey I think many will follow. You don't come across cocky & know it all.. purchase wisely, something's you grow out of quickly. The most underrated bike is the Vstrom 1050 I think..
Good on you for getting on two wheels. Ive been riding since 1970 and i never looked back. Enjoy and stay safe dude ...
Hi. Thanks for watching. Safe biking
43 here and about to do my Direct Access from little experience (apart from helping a mate build an old 2 stroke when i was 16). Wife thinks I'm mad but I'm sure she'll jump on soon for a few adventures. Looking at a Versys. My long term aim is to go through Europe down to Sicily and get the ferry over to Malta. I have a long term friend there who is a biker and the plan is to go riding with her. I'm just a little excited!
Hi. Thanks for watching
Wow what a journey, absolutely fantastic. Enjoy the drive to Sicily 👍👍👍👍
Congrats! One of the best decisions you’ll make. Ride safe!
Loving it already….
Keep the bike videos coming along side your St Chris videos 😊
Me and my partner (in our late 30s) both completed our DAS earlier this year over a week, neither of us had ridden before and it’s the best thing we have done.
I went for an Indian Scout Bobber, and my partner got an Indian Scout Sixty.
We both found motorcycle lessons uk youtube really helpful when it came to general riding advice and passing our MOD1 and 2.
Ride safe 👊
OMG Indian Scout bikes!!! Love it
Hope to see you on the road 👍
Well done you Andy. I started at age 57 in 2023. Got my 125cc CBT a year and 10 days ago. Had a Yamaha MT125 that I used to practice manoeuvres on. So I think you're doing the right thing by starting small and gaining confidence. As an incentive I bought a Vulcan 650 S last December. I had to do another CBT for big bikes, and the official tests while it languished in my garage waiting on me. If you like the cruiser style, I wholeheartedly recommend a Vulcan when you're ready. It'll be a lot cheaper than a Harley or an Indian. And it's no slouch. I adore mine. ...Ride safe now.
Thanks for this 👍thanks for watching
I did the same when I was 39. Always wanted to have a bike and thought, now or never. I passed it all in a 6 week period. My first bike was a Harley 883. I love the classic looking bikes. 5 years on, I've just upgraded to a Triump Bobber. You'll love it.
Lovely bike 👍
Started riding around 4 years ago at the age of 46. One of the best things I've ever done. Also had a Keeway (although a more naked sports style one) while I was moving from CBT to full access and never had any problems with it
Hi. Thanks for watching
Loving the Keeway, plan to practice on it and get out and about
congratulations, riding a motorcycle is the best human therapy, ride safe
Yes! Agree!
Congratulations 👍👍👍 Every journey starts somewhere. I started on a 650 VStrom went to a Triumph Trophy SE, now I own the triumph Trophy, triumph Bonnie T120, Aprilia Mana and an Indian Chieftain which is a tank 😎😎 happy riding and like many will tell you ride at your comfort level not someone else’s. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
I heard one bike is never enough 😂🏍️
I'm going through almost the exact same process right now, did my CBT about a month ago and have my Mod 1 tomorrow. Like you I found slow speed riding really challenging and still make the occasional mistake, especially when coming to a stop when my brain can't decide which foot to put down or I grab the front brake to hard. I hired a 125 from a local motobike hire place and have put in around 200 miles on it since my CBT, I have to say its been invaluable to learn the muscle memory for all the things you need to think about as it seems so overwhelming at first. When doing my Mod 1 training the one thing I found is that the larger bike (MT07) was weirdly a lot easier to get to grips with than the 125, the lower centre of gravity really helps with balance. I also watched all the videos on @MotoEcosse channel which have been absolutely invaluable. Best of luck on your journey, have fun and ride safe!
Hi. It’s about the muscle memory for me too! Will take a look at that site, thanks for the recommendation. Good luck 👍👍
In exactly the same position as you, just done CBT on 6th lesson is DAS. Great to watch your journey unfold. Keep the content coming
Hi. Enjoy your training 👍
I got my license a few months before turning 52. I started on a Honda CBR300R. 7 months later go my dream bike, a Triumph Street Triple 765R. I turned 59 a few months ago and have added a Harley Sport Glide and the in February, a Triumph Tiger 850 Sport. It’s addictive. Happy riding
Thank for watching. Cracking bikes. I am told that one bike isn’t enough 👍🏍️
Hi, I'm 47 and am just coming to the end of my first year of riding. I've done 15k miles in 4 countries with many commuter miles in and out of London. My first bike is a Tiger 900 GT Pro. I went straight into a 7 day Direct Access course at Royston BMW. To this day I've still not ridden a 125 and never had to use L plates. No regrests :-) You do need deep pockets to go the route I did, training, gear, the bike and insurance all hits you in one go. My advice is don't skimp on cheeper stuff because you will only end up having to rebuy later anyway. I also recommend joining a local bike club as it opens you up to opportunities that you might otherwise not have access to and you get to meet new people.
Hi. This is a great story, sounds fab. Thanks for this 👍👍