Hi. I'm Fank. Love your Channel. I've been riding for 3 years and loving every minute. You will love riding the bigger bike. I found it so much more stable. I look forward to following your journey to your A license. Rooting for you. Ride safe.😊😊
@@lukeorlando4814 I've just got back from another 5 hours ride with a couple of coffee shop stops, I just can not get enough of it, XL1000 and KLZ1000, I have to admit I don't use any of my 125's now, they are Keeway, Baimo and XL 125's
I'm really loving the conversational format of these videos. It's very refreshing and calming. it almost feels like we're joining you on your journey and learning with you! A huge contrast to other motorbike channels where the riders are experienced and tell you that "this is what you need to do" and "this is what you're doing wrong". Of course, they're right, but sometimes it's nice to see the early parts of someone's riding journey too instead of expecting everyone to be perfect from the get-go. It's giving me the confidence to retake my CBT - I could not complete my first CBT so my confidence took a huge knock and got sick of anything motorbike related until I stumbled onto this channel. Thank you
I’m really enjoying watching your motorcycling journey & your wife is lovely: the way she listens to you & chips in, very cute! Watching you on the bike I have one serious observation. You are riding in ‘stealth mode.’ The bike is black, your clothing is black & even your helmet is black. You blend into the background perfectly, the exact opposite of what you should be aiming for. Drivers will not see you coming & sooner or later you will get pulled out on, I’m speaking from experience. Please change that lid for a brighter colour & if you can’t get a more colourful jacket think about wearing some form of reflective, hi-vis tabard or vest. If your bike hasn’t got a DRL then make sure you ride with your lights on, dipped beam, even in the daytime. Being seen is imperative to keeping you safe. Keep up the videos, I look forward to each new one as your experience grows.
Hi, i passed my test in August and ive been looking for videos like yours. Not many out there showing a true story of how they are finding it. I unfortunately am not getting on my bike as much as you as i have a work van, so only weekend rides are possible. Everything you have experienced is exactly the same as me. Down to the gear we bought, being the same and the same issues with the gear. Loving the videos bud. Ride safe
I've just got my CBT at 50 years old. Never driven a car before - the only experience I have of roads and traffic is as a cyclist. So it's all very new and nerve-racking to me. But you're right, once you've done the one day course, you're on your own! I'm lucky that I have a few mates that are all bikers and have had a lot of good advice. But nothing prepares you for being on the road by yourself. I've a lot to learn and the only way to do it is keep going out on my bike. Considering doing my full license next year if I feel confident and ready. Great channel and it's good to see someone else of a similar age who's new to bikes as myself 👍
@@daveanderson70 That's good advice. I'm doing similar to yourself at the moment with short journeys around back roads and places that aren't too busy. Becoming familiar with my bike is my first goal, and then venture further afield. Take care 👍
Don’t worry about the big bike, as has been said in previous comments they’re easier than 125s. I did my CBT on July 14th this year and passed my mod2 test on September 5th at 55 after not being on a bike for over 30 years, it’s not as hard as you think. I’m sure you enjoy your journey to your full A license as I did, best of luck and I look forward to watching your progress.
Ok whilst I am enjoying your content, I cannot help but think that as a learner your focus should 100% be on the riding and not trying to vlog or create content at the same time. I just worry for you safety. Just get used to riding a bit more then get the the camera out. I only passed my direct access test around 6 years ago. It took ages for me to get the muscle memory and I still don't consider myself a good or experienced rider. I'm only now starting to put a camera on my bike. My confidence came after my test when I just decided to ride my first long distance ride to the Giants Causeway. I had to just tackle riding through a city (Liverpool) and do the motorway. After that ride, everything seemed to click into place and I became one with the bike. Stay safe pal. Not pissing on your chips, just saying stay safe and don't put pressure to vlog... Just learn the bike first. ❤
@@bikerofatlantis yes I enjoy your episodes. I'm in Yorkshire too. I started making some videos but they are crap. I like your style. My Mrs would run a mile before getting in front of the camera to help me out making a video. 🤣
Go for it buddy, after 30 years I got back on a bike a year last August and passed my full test in May this year, I have loved the whole experience and as I nudge my way towards retirement, it will definitely make life so much more interesting. Unfortunately, I can't tempted my wife to get on the back or to give it a go herself as yet.
Ah "the fear"... yeah I get "the fear" anytime I put on my kit. It goes away a few seconds after getting on the bike. I used to get it the hours before getting my kit on. Confidence came with time. Old biker adage is that you start out biking with a big bag of luck and an empty bag of experience, and you have to make sure to fill up your bag of experience before your bag of luck is emptied and as it does - you will be more prepared, you will feel more confident and you'll forget all your fears. Getting a bit of apprehension doing something new or getting on the bike is completely natural, and at least for me, it's never gone away. I love that your wife is onboard for this journey! Even as a pillion, she'll have some skills to learn, riding a bike with a pillion she needs to be in tune with you. Lean when you lean, etc. It'll feel super weird for her initially, but hopefully, she'll get into it. For what its worth, as a rider, I made a terrible pillion, hated the position, hated not having control over the lean angle 😂 I dont think that's unusual either so if she doesnt like it, it must only mean one thing :) she needs a bike too!!! 😂
I found your channel purely by happenstance, very down to earth and interesting content. You and your Mrs, see to have a really admirable chemistry with each other. Looking forward to see you progress along in your biking journey, and for your wife to start hers. Safe riding to you both.
Don't worry about the size of the engine. Just relax and enjoy the experience. I promise that the longer you ride the more you will enjoy it. Keep the shiny side up and keep smiling 😁
From the states all it takes is a passed written test and a passed drive test. That's it. From that you can ride WHATEVER you can afford. There are safety classes that allow you to skip the drive test but you still have to take and pass a written test. New driver here in California. Only a helmet is needed. I ride a 1300 Yamaha cruiser. I'm a bigger guy so I needed size and umpf. Riding for just over a month and loving it. Keep up your videos! I share your struggles and love your victories, truelly. Respect the throttle and actively scan EVERTRHING! Be safe and God bless.
Hi, Thanks for watching over in California and your comment. Great to hear you are enjoying it as much as me. Ride safely and keep me updated with how you get on
As people keep saying, quite rightly so, a bigger engine is far more stable and much easier to control at all speeds, just enjoy it, wish you all the success in the world (ps ya passed my old house near black monk)
Another good video my friend. Keep up the good work. You’ll be absolutely fine on any size bike. Your only as gonna go as fast as you choose to go. If anything, you will only notice it’s bigger when you’re moving it around manually. I tend to hold my front brake and not the rear at traffic lights while waiting. But a lot of bigger bikes have hill assist now too. In London, that’s normal for mopeds going the wrong way down streets.
I did DAS back in 1998. No hazard perception test back then. But I went on to do driver instructor training (for cars) and had to do it then. I got some software to practise on the PC at home and I was failing every time. I checked with my instructor and he told me that I was seeing the hazard too soon! So wait until the hazard develops then hit the button!
Love you videos. You never stop learning on a bike, there is always something new. Like driving, you build up muscle memory. A lot of what you do becomes secondary nature. Along with a lot of bad & good habits. Checking your mirrors while riding is good, checking your mirrors while stationary is even better. To car/ lorry drivers, you're just a dot.
Keep going you're doing fine and as most folk have said here riding a more powerful motorcycle is far easier than you'd think.....get out of trouble easier with just a quick turn of the throttle Good on the Mrs for taking up the two wheels too Stay safe chief Lev
Got my CBT on 14th Nov, my theory on 15th Nov. Im hoping to pass my full A License before the end of Feb for a holiday trip. Somewhere in between that I'll be buying a bike and getting some practice in on winter roads; big fingers crossed
Good luck with your theory hope you passed. As a 24 year old I’ve decided I’m going to learn to ride a bike. Will look to booking my cbt when I can and then start with a 125. Don’t want to rush it, you need to respect these machines. It’s nice to see new riders of all ages getting into it. Looking forward to your future videos.
Just go fir the bigger bike dude. I drove for 28 years and got my CBT. The jump from 125 to 650 was a bit of a shock but you pick it up really easy. Your road sense will get you through it no problem. Get it done 👍🏻
Hi There Been watching your adventures starting out on a bike and loving it. One more soul saved Lol. I started biking and did a direct access and bought a honda hornet 600 (lovely fun bike) that was in and around 2005 then sold it it a few years later due to change of circumstances. Recently, I got back into riding again, and bought a Triumph T120 bonneville black. So so nice and s gorgeous bike, but very different from to an inline 4. You will be fine on a 600, as everyone else has said the bike will be more stable. Good luck
I passed my bike test back in 1986 and messed about on smaller bikes for a few years, then gave it all up. I recently retired and had that midlife crisis moment and decided I wanted to get back on a bike. I bought a modern classic, Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 twin and despite taking time to regain my slow speed balance, which by the way is fairly good now, I'm loving the biking experience ❤
Good point on the CBT, as an ex instructor in Barnsley, I was always aware on how little the younger students knew about the highway code, even had one guy not stop at a give way, and almost ran into a bus. He didn't realise priority had changed and didn't THINK it matters, just like the guy on the scooter on the one way street, had you been in a car or van it might have been a different story.
My wife had a Honda Shadow 125 briefly. She didn’t take to it, too cold! Plus she had family issues at the time and couldn’t ride it enough to become confident. The one thing she did notice is all the fellas staring when she got off the bike and took her helmet off. I think she quite enjoyed that part! Good luck to you (both?) for the future.
In America as far as I know thier is no size limit for beginners. Here in Kentucky where I live you have to take a written test to get the motorcycle learners permit. You ride with no passengers daylight hours only for a certain amount of time then you take the riders test later to get your full license. I myself took a motorcycle safety course after I got my permit and that let me wave the actual riders test. I highly recommend the riders safety course to everyone.
Really enjoying your channel. I learnt to ride 27 years ago, and I’ve just got back onto a bike after a 20’year break. I was really surprised at how nervous I was and it took me a good 6 months to start feeling comfortable again. As a 53 year old, I’m probably more risk averse / risk conscious than I was. Probably no bad thing.
Great to see you moving up and progressing. I'm doing the same thing, and I'm 49, but I'm doing it in Portugal. I passed my bike theory and hazard perception test back in 2010 in the UK, but then a change in circumstances led me to moving to Hong Kong for ten years, and now Portugal. One thing here is that we can still ride a 125 indefinitely without L plates on our car licences. I'll keep watching your updates, mate.
Did my full licence and cbt from November last year had bikes up to 250 cc in the 80’s ,passed it all in march this year first time .never bothered with 125 cc bikes as I’d had one years ago .been on 600 cc bike since early this year ,much better than 125 cc ,also been driving a car for years .i did the police bike safe course a few weeks ago for about 60 quid ,its all good training and well worth the money ,don’t rush the mod 1 and mod 2 ,set goals for spring next year to get it passed .Being on the bigger bikes is a totally different experience ,feels better and safer .125cc bikes are ok but you feel vulnerable and not really part of the traffic ,bigger bikes are much better as you feel you command your space on the road .Good luck with your full licence ,it’ really is is the best way to go if you enjoy 2 wheels .
Did my cbt 21 years ago and not looked back Training is fine but the main issues we have is some people don’t care about road rules so going the wrong way doesn’t bother them. Your doing great and good luck with mod 1
Glad you are cracking on with the full licence, as others have said, you'll feel so much better on a bigger bike and no need to feel intimidated by it,. With the hazard perception test, back when i did it you can click more than once, think a max of 5-8 clicks and you can be stupidly marked down for spotting the hazard to early (make it make sense) people think you get one click per hazard clip, just check to make sure that is still the case. I could see you both on a touring bike travelling around Europe one day and its great Claire is so supportive and interested in bikes.
I’m just getting back on two wheels after a long 10 year break, and love your videos as it helps me remember all the learning I did first time, just brought a 899cc ninja… got to admit, I’ve missed having a bike!
Hey, I started doing my DAS same week you published your first vlog. I’ve now done two rides on 650cc bike having done 8 on a 125cc under instruction. Am also same age as you. As everyone says a bigger bike is so much more confidence inspiring as everything is easier, more power and better handling. Don’t feel as exposed in traffic as much.
Having passed my A test a couple of years ago, I can tell you that there isn’t much to worry about. Increase in engine size is better as you will feel more stable and as a bigger guy it will just be a better fit. With regards to Mod1 you really have to focus. Most people fail due to silly mistakes. I failed my first attempt because I was meant to do an emergency stop and just did a controlled stop!!! Someone suggested to talk myself out loud around it and it seemed to work. Your biggest enemy is nerves. So get a good breakfast and breathe. Mod2 is a doddle. Just ride safely and treat the examiner as a sat nav in your ear. Remember that they aren’t trying to fail you. They want to see that you are safe. Good luck with the journey. Life on two wheels is the absolute best.
It’s not often I get hooked on a channel, really enjoying this and I admire your attitude to biking and allowing yourself to feedback from all - this approach I’m certain will keep you safe and sound. Once you’re on the 650cc Kawasaki, you should actually find it easier to ride, especially all the slow speed stuff. More torque on the back wheel during slow speed manoeuvres massively helps to keep the bike upright. Embrace it, and honestly the only advice or warning as you swap machines is that they go and stop a lot faster - mainly your introduction couple of hours will sort this observation. Theory test, check the tube as there’s some very helpful videos on when to press the button as you spot a potential and actual hazard, there’s actually a hack to it and not very clear otherwise. MOD 1 - I can tell from previous videos that you’ll have zero issues, just think of it as an elaborate CBT, and a great opportunity to understand your machine. I suffered a “false neutral” so stalled (my only minor) so don’t trust the neutral light, as you’ll stop loads to speak with the examiner - comes under machine control. MOD 2 - Whilst it’s easy to forget the saying “ride your own ride” when you have what looks like a Police bike behind you, but it’s fantastic advice. This test along with the MOD 1 is only a check of understanding/training, you’ve done enough to get there so you ARE at this stage capable. The examiner mainly wishes to see a safe ride from you. Just forget he’s there, don’t hold back for him, just ride. If you turn left or at least committed to when he said right , still turn left - thats not a fail or even a fault, but then panicking last second changing from left to right and making a mess of it causing other road users/pedestrians to change speed/direction would then make it a fault. And don’t forget MOD 2 many say is easier than the MOD 1. Your methodical and open approach I’m certain will see you fly through this, and enjoy as when I did my DAS at the age of 41 was the best thing I’ve ever done (considering I have a flying licence too!). I’ll look forward to seeing you around this neck of the woods (Essex) as I’m certain you’ll be everywhere once you have the licence. What’s really crucial (to my mind) is to continue your training and Police Bike Safe and Fire Bike are amazing, and for next to no cost. In a heartbeat you’ll really focus on advanced road positioning and I fully believe everyone should do this, and more. What a mega journey mate, welcome to the amazing world of motorcycling ❤
Hi. Absolutely delighted to read this guidance, thank you very much for taking the time to share. I am really interested in training so will definitely look to this Thankyou again 👍
there's a lot to learn... even after 30 years of having a full car drivers licence. there's things specific to riding a Motorcycle that just aren't a consideration in a car. & 10 months after first trying out 2 wheels and an engine on the road. there's still a lot to learn. Today it was 100's of Kilometres of gravel to learn on (and great photo's) Learning from experimentation is my thing, but watching and talking to experienced guys, and then putting to practice what they teach is invaluable!
Im hoping it might be the same app that was already recommended to you by your instructor guy. The 4 in 1 DVSA app is absolutely amazing. Ive yet to do my CBT but have just passed my theory as i thought itd be the easier of the 2. i passed first time. Barring some wording differences the 700 or so questions on the app are the same as on the actual test so it was invaluable. It also has hazard perception mocks and clips on the app aswell. All of it completely free. Good luck on your DAS course. ill be trying my CBT soon and im nervous af.
Great video, you have definitely got the bug. Don't worry about a bigger bike, you will be fine and you will love it. Yes, the bikes are heavier and more powerful, but they are much more stable. You will do great, enjoy it, you are a safe rider. As for the scooter up the one-way street i bet he was a delivery driver. Watch then buggers they have no morals. I would like to say they are not all like that.
Hiya. I learned to ride when I was 12. It was on 125 off road bikes. We call them dirt bikes. I would recommend taking an off road training course as well. It give a different feel and augments your skills for handling the unexpected. I enjoy both your channels and think you two are a hoot!
I did my CBT with an 18 yr old (I was 46 at the time) with no experience as well. He did not pass. The CBT does depend on your instructor. Some will see it as easy money and pass you quickly on a bare minimum while others will use the whole day and teach you a little beyond what is required to keep you alive. I didn't use the CBT as such going straight onto the full 1 weeks course. It's worth doing if even you stick to the smaller bike for now. As for your question - I don't think it's right to only ever have to do a CBT every 2 years staying a permanent learner seems crazy.
I was really on the fence about doing my CBT and came across this channel. Convinced me to go for it! I love the content, no showing off just really honest experiences from the view of a beginner rider, great video as always
Hiya Andy and Claire - great vid as always and its great to see you progressing. There are also many other youtubers that give great advice - i found "DanDanTheFireman" a really good informative and thought provoking chanel as he teaches you how to be prepared- he also does accident analysis so we all learn. When you go to Squires there's also "The Motorist" that's just a mile or two down the road that's also worth a visit. Enjoy your visit to Squires and I hope it's not dead. I went last Thursday afternoon and there was plenty there 👍
Hello, nice to follow your progress, as we've started somewhat at the same time, and age. Looks like you've had much more opportunities to ride than I have, but I'm happy with what I've been able to ride and learn. Progressing slowly, striving to keep on the safe side. We're so much slower having even fairly small strains and bruises to heal than the younger ones, we can't afford those injuries. Smiled at your comment on the need to get the bike in for service... that's the benefit (and curse, in a way) of having a new bike. Myself, I've declared the end of the riding season (the bike did do its part in this, by slightly seizing the front brake), and yesterday pulled apart the front brake caliper - it was in quite a yucky condition, so high time for service. So I'm starting the other side of my learning path, to actually learn to maintain the bike by myself, and planning to enjoy that part as well. Today to continue by cleaning up the disassembled parts, but after that will need to leave it for a while, until the ordered spare/maintenance kit arrives.
When I did my license back in 2000 I did direct access. I am a big chap and couldn’t get on a 125 so finished my CBT on a 500. Then by the end of the week I did my test. Sadly the bike broke down and didn’t finish the test. So a week later passed. Been riding ever since. I did advanced test in 2010 with the IAM. In 2019 I became an observer for the IAM and now I’m chef observer. I passed my National observer a year ago. So in 24 years I’ve done a lot. Every time I’m out you always see something silly or dangerous. No matter what you do that feeling of ( there out to kill me) is there at the back of your mind. It’s there to keep you alive. I enjoy riding and if I can help someone to enjoy there ride more I’m happy.
Took my CBT around twenty years ago with no previous experience, followed by five two hour lessons on a 500cc bike using the direct access route a couple of weeks later. Rode for a few years but came back to it this year after a ten year break. Everything came back to me pretty quickly but I discovered a few things, primarily that I enjoy riding alone. Take your time. It is one of the most enjoyable skills I’ve learned.
I’m a new rider and CBT is definitely not enough in my opinion. One day is just not enough to then be getting on the road and riding a vehicle. I considered an intensive course but glad I didn’t and did my DAS instead. Again, 4 days intensive is not enough - in one hour you can ride a motorbike, but those 3 months of training teach you the important stuff like checks, position etc For the theory test I used the Motorcycle Theory Test UK app and it was superb. Very accurate to the actual test. Good luck going on getting your full licence! Can I ask what mic you’re using for narration? DJI Mic 2 or similar?
Great video, I passed my theory test today and am now looking to do mod 1 next year. Just to be safe you might want to take a couple of weeks to revise the theory 😅
Go for that A license, I passed mine in December 23, and wow what an experience, worth all the work , and it feels great when you pass it! Go for that CBT you can do it! Love your channel 😁👍 Sue
I took my first cbt at 48. I originally only wanted a 125 to commute the 5 miles into work. At the time, the instructor suggested I go for my A licence but I wasn't confident enough. So long story short, I ended up taking my cbt 3 times before finally passing at 54. I have been loving riding around in my Honda Rebel 500 every since. I just wish I'd taken my full test sooner. You're doing the right thing. Strike while the iron is hot.
I passed my full bike in the 80s and tbh it was less intenseive than the current cbt. If you got short legs like me right foot down cause its nearer the crown of the road. Top vid, nice one!
Try riding in London. All the couriers ride round in cbts mostly without any regards of any rules. Throw in a sprinkling of cyclists (electric or otherwise) who seem to think road rules don’t apply (and are not insured), electric scooters that can be on the road, bikelanes or pavement (whatever they like) and pedestrians stepping into the road without looking. Then add in minicabs, black cabs, busses and white vans on top of ‘regular’ drivers. When I just had my cbt and just passed my full license I didn’t like to filter, but you soon learn it actually is essential to keep you safe by getting out of traffic. And I haven’t even mentioned bike jackings! In regards to riding a 600cc more than likely you’ll find it almost easier than your 125. The added weight also gives more stability at low speed. Good luck!
Did my training and test on an mt 07 , the feeling of coming out onto the public road for the first time was absolutely amazing! The stability and compliance of the bike was a game changer. Literally changed my life. Can’t wait to see your reaction to it all
Ey up Took my bike test in late 1968 and passed first time. Anybody my age will recall there weren’t many, if any, places to take bike lessons. When I thought I was ready I applied for my test. I can’t remember how you did that back then, the internet hadn’t been invented. It could have been at the post office or through the post I don’t recall, anyone remember? Back then we swapped monthly magazines with riding tips and taught each other while out riding. But mostly we learnt by experience which is far better than watching videos. I later went on to enroll in an Advance Riders course when I was 26/27 years old Good luck, every days a learning day
In Pennsylvania you take the written test and receive a permit. With a permit you can only ride along side a licensed rider but you can choose any bike. Once you have a permit and are ready you can take your skills test for your license. If you are like me and have nobody to ride with there is a Free 3 day course you can take and at the end of the course is a skills test. If you pass you get your license. I think it’s the same in most of the US. 50 years old studying for the permit test at the moment. Enjoying the videos and listening to your learning experience. 👍…also, I’m thinking I might purchase the Indian Scout Bobber…anybody have thoughts on this bike?
Good luck with the next stage of your adventure, you’ll be fine. As others have said a bigger bike is far more responsive and therefore easier to ride in most situations. The biggest bonus for you getting a full licence is that you live in an area with some of the best biking roads in the whole country but a 125cc isn’t enough to cope with the steeper inclines as you get out near the dales and moors. Keep safe
Very exciting, I elft it until my CBT runs out, not much wiggle room left, I should have done it sooner. Anyway today was my last lesson, MOD 1 on Tuesday MOD 2 on Thursday - here is hoping. Either way, I do feel a lot more of an acomplished rider than I did four lessons ago, you will definitly benefit from the Theory exam as well, you will drive differently afterwards as well. Good luck and looking forward to watching your DAS journey and also for Mrs BoA on her CBT journey!
Best of luck to you like many others have already said you will be surprised once you get your head around the weight of a bigger bike you will find it is a lot more stable and easy to control at low speed than a 125 your head is already in the right place knowing you need to learn and practice to be able to ride as safely as you can on the road is half the battle.Again best of luck and welcome to what is an absolutely enormous biker family
I follow your other channel as i have a motorhome, love this channel as your doing exactly what i did last year, i was 57 then, did my CBT, theory & training (8x 3hr lessons) passed MOD 1 & 2 in 2 ½ months, now riding a 650cc bike which i tow on the back of the motorhome on a low, side mounting trailer, even the wife & little dog (in backpack) go on the bike. You'll find the bigger bike a lot easier & smoother to ride than the 125cc, i used to play back in my head what the instructor had been telling me during training and put these in to practice when out on my 125cc, looking forward to seeing you progress to you A licence.
I did my mod 1 and 2 last December for me that experience in bad and cold weather is something I appreciate now. The day of my mod 2 it was day after boxing day it was like a torrential rainfall!! Totally thought I had failed. But I'd done enough I believe the weather and dealing with it helped. Good luck mate. I came out of it with so many more skills and more confidence on the road.
I passed my A license in 1977 in the days when all you had to do was ride up and down the street a couple of times then answer three highway code questions. I'm 65 now and hadn't been on a bike for 35 years until I decided to start again last month. After advice from the salespeople at West Coast Triumph in Glasgow I bought a Triumph Speed 400. I'm loving the bike and it's been a perfect restart bike for me and all the old skills are coming back, but omg the first week was scary. Next year I'm planning to trade up to a 1200cc Bonneville T120. I'm loving your video's Andrew, good luck with your journey.
Like you I'm back to riding again after 30 years (passed in 1991) I gave up after a drunk driver sent me over the bonnet. Was terrified for the 1st week, even getting petrol in a can because I didn't wanna ride through town traffic, now loving my 650 and have the "bug" again. Balance at slow speed was my worry! I just wish I started again in the spring rather than late summer.
Don’t be worrying Andy. From CBT to MOD2, I only every rode the riding school bike. So only went on a bike for lessons. Passed all my modules 1st time. You have the benefit of using your bike all the time to gain more experience. So, I’m sure you will fly through. It doesn’t matter which leg you have down, there’s no right or wrong, although you might need your foot brake for Hill starts. Good luck 👍
You are partly right, but once you've come to a standstill and know it's going to be some time until you can move again, select neutral and your right foot back on the rear brake. Or if you know it won't be long before you move off you can hold in the clutch but with your foot on the rear brake. If some idiot runs into the back of you without your foot on the rear brake, which only means your back wheel roles up over their bonnet and launches you into whatever. So remember LEFT foot down because if I'm out and I see your right foot I'm gonna ride along side you and stamp real hard on your foot. 😂 Ride safe. One Love. 😊
Love the honesty of your footage.. i did the 600cc training and did test and the wing mirror kept turning loose 😂 failed mod 1 cos i put foot down on figure of 8 then failed mod 2 on hesitation on lane at a roundabout .. i think nerves got the better of me .. the instructor was and ex police who was not forgiving! Needless to say i pushed on and passed the mod 1&2.. enjoy your journey and I look forward to watching 🙌
Passed my A licence last year so this is going to be fun to watch! I'm also looking forward to seeing Claire learning to ride, good luck to both of you. As others have said the class A bike you'll learn on is most noticeably heavier than your 125 and obviously much faster, but the extra power only happens when you make it so just get used to moving your wrist less! The bigger bike is also easier to balance and control slowly as just a slight letting out of the clutch will stand it back up and it's less likely to stall. My instructor said to me the day I started on the Suzuki SV650 "you're going to hate your 125 after today". He was right...
What an incredible progress you are making - just cannot wait seeing you on a 600cc. As for CBT, one day ride is sufficient to learn the basics of motorcycling.
Hello Andy. You were talking about using some weatherproofing on your motircycle. I'm not sure where you mentioned it, though. I found this ACF-50 A10013 Motorcycle and Automotive All Metal Anti-Corrosion Spray 369ml. I have never used it, but plenty of people say it's good. I will be trying it out this year on my new bike 🏍
i chose the rebel 1100 as my first bike. here in the states, you can pass the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's road test, where you ride for about 14-16 hours, pass their test, then you can go to the DMV and pass the written test, and there's your motorcycle license. and we don't have CC restrictions. I'm glad I started with 1100, I never felt 'stunted' with a smaller bike. Love the content, and I swear when you speak you sound like Ricky Gervais. lol. Cheers!
That’s great Andy that you feel confident enough to move to the next step iam sure you will do just fine with it mate the one thing you have more than the younger learners is years of road sense which will keep you in good shape for it..goodluck Andy onward to victory 👍🏻
I passed my motorcycle test back in 1999, but only got my first bike when I was 52. Fortunately, I’ve been driving cars and HGVs for many years, so the Highway Code wasn’t really an issue. When I decided to get a bike I purchased a 300cc. I also decided to book up extra lessons (refresher course) with a qualified instructor to spend 2 days with. That did me the “world of good”. As everyone else has said, do not fear the 600cc. They really are easier to handle. You mentioned a Kawasaki. Could it be the Z650…if so, it’s a great bike to ride as “ a first big bike”. I think you’ll love it. 😊 Good luck on your motorcycle journey.. 😊😊
Look forward to your journey. it will be really interesting to watch and give me an insight into what my hubby did to pass his test (11 years ago) Oh wow Claire, I really admire you for even saying you would get on a bike. The only horse power I had was the four legged sort.
Hey up you two, CLAIRE!!! It’s supposed to be a family show!! “You can have me on the back then” tone it down please!! Haha! Feel for you big lad with all this you have to go through to get your licence. I passed my test in 1979, applied for a provisional, bought a 250cc to learn on, applied for my test on my 17th birthday, the 1st day I was allowed on the road, passed it 3 months later! Test was 15mins long, told to ride round street a few times, asked me 5 questions on highway code and that was it, next day went down to dealer and ordered a new 750cc! Still alive today! Good old days! You’re doing good Andrew. I always put right foot down when stopped, you can hold it on front brake with a couple of fingers and this leaves your left foot to drop into neutral whilst stood then when lights change your foot is already on the peg ready to shift into 1st with no hesitation. Keep up the good work, Steve, over the hill 👍
I did my CBT in June 2022 and rode a 125 for 3 months, did 3000 miles in that time, enjoyed so much that by mid September had done my direct access and never looked back. Ridden 25,000 miles since then and now its my main hobby. Went on to undertake the IAM training and that transformed my riding. Go for it, hope you enjoy the journey as much as i have.
Hi, don't worry about it. I went from never riding, to cbt and passing my full in 11 days. I hated my cbt due to how light the clutch and everything was on the 125, really struggled, but as soon as I got onto the Z650 for mod1 and 2, I loved it, its so much more stable. slow speed stuff is so much easier as I could feel the clutch more, I loved it.
Hi Andy - I used to ride bikes in the late 60's/ early 70's in all weathers on a full motor bike licence which is still valid today. I wore a one-piece light blue outfit for visibility. You are more vulnerable riding a black bike and all black outfit in today's busy traffic. Just a day-glow over-jacket could make you more visible to idiots who are likely to pull out of a sideroad and catch you out. Stay safe!
Honestly, I found that the 125 bikes were a lot harder to ride than my first bike which was a Bandit 600. I wouldn’t worry about that transition at all. I now ride a Triumph Speed Triple 1050R, and recently had a ride of a friends 125 and It was so much trickier. Throttle is jerky, bike is unstable, getting blown about….. trust me, you’ll love it when you get onto a bigger bike.
Cracking video as usual mate. You are by far doing the right thing. You should be preparing more, you should be aware of your behaviour on your road. And you are! These delivery drivers often just share a bike. They don't even have the CBT. As I mentioned in previous comments, I've been riding in a CBT for 4 years. Passed my mod 1, got my mod 2 booked next week. When I passed my CBT I sat there watching bike accident videos on TH-cam lol. It made me far more aware.
@@bikerofatlantis cheers mate will do. Will be over the moon if I pass. I mean I failed my CBT twice originally, and my mod 1 failed once, so I'm open to failing again hahaha. Either way, fail = rebook. Think of your mod 1 first time as a practice run.
I passed my CBT a year ago on a scooter, wanted to get used to riding without the worry about gears! Last month went back and did a practice on a geared bike, started off on a 125 then went straight on a 600. Felt amazing on the 600cc So like you I need to get my theory done and get my A licence.
You’re easily ready for the DAS. A 600 is the sweet spot in my opinion too. Still small enough for fun and large enough to handle traffic and major roads. You’ll love it. The theory and Highway Code learning is a continual process though. I still have my copy now and need to refer to it regularly for advanced riding and it shows you how much other road users forget or don’t know. Safe riding.
The bigger bikes make everything easier. I think 125cc have a harder time and some of the 125 people are well practiced rider's as they use the bike every day experience is the best teacher
Really enjoying the videos of your journey. In my late 40'a now, did my CBT in May, theory test passed and planning on tacking the direct access next year. Always wanted a bike, but something always got in the way, so decided it was now or never. My kids both lesrningbto drive, bot failed the theory test. How hard could it be? I failed a couple of practice ones online, figured my car driving experience would see me though and while it helps, using one of the apps to study/practice really helped ans I passed the real thing first time. Keep up the good work.
Great to hear your planning ahead for the bigger test ! Little tip regarding practicing the Hazard perception. Check the app you’re using because some if not all tell you when you clicked … a lot of experience drivers such as yourself find that they clicking to early because of when your seeing the developing / hazard. So try this … When you first see it count 1or 2 seconds before clicking and see if that helps you . I also did my Theory on an app and hammered it for a month ! You know most of it from driving it’s just a tweak in any updates regarding the high way code . Your right on the CBT should be more than a days course and should prob include passing the theory test before attending the CBT . I rode for 2 yrs on my CBT because of Covid ! But that time in really did help for more practice and knowledge / experience … I’m sure you will do fine and doing well now . Best of luck for going forward. . Can’t wait for Claire to learn too😊 it’s good to be a pillion but when you’re doing it yourself it’s a whole new ball game . And wow ! 😊 Julie 4 ft 11 😊
That's great news, excited for you big man! I've struggled a lot with learning how to ride, but it was worth every ounce of sweat and every penny every time I fire up my big bike. I hope you'll stay with us cruiser riders for your next bike! And good luck to your wife as well, a new rider is born, that's always epic
Hi guys, another informative vlog with your biking journey! Glad you are going for further training and heading for your A2 licence, and we think Claire could have your 125 😁 you will love the bigger bike and we look forward to which bike you choose 🤔 as for that chap going the wrong way, he could just have made a mistake? I have personally been the wrong way down a one-way bus only lane.....in France 🙄🙄 2-up on BMW 1100 ... We've all done it. Stay safe Andy & Lyn.
So pleased for you that your enjoying it so much , and fully encourage you to continue your training , every days a school day , never had to do the theory tests , can be tricky as there are sometimes sneaky unclear choices and answers , not very productive for helping people get better when they decieve you ! all the very best
Enjoying your journey - keep it up. Lots to pick up from this vid… 1. CBT is definitely not enough training if you do it and then think you are trained to ride on the road. You’ve done things the right way in the sense you have continued to practice with a view to taking your A licence test - I get the feeling a lot of people don’t! (particularly those who need a small cc motorbike/moped for a delivery job). 2. You’ll love the 600 and you’ll get to grips with it in minutes I suspect. Everything is easier and I think you’ll notice the difference with slow speed control. It won’t be a sports bike, likely an er-6 (if they still make them) which is the middle ground between a sports bike and a cruiser (like yours). Again you’ll find everything easier because it’s designed as a starter (big) bike. 3. I’m a similar age to you but did my bike test 20 odd years ago (so didn’t have to fanny around with mod1 and 2 😂). Did have to do the theory - practice! Otherwise it’ll catch you out. Be careful with hazard perception - because you’re an experienced driver you will find you spot the hazard earlier than the window they specify, I nearly failed mine because of this! The practical training has a lot of advanced riding in it, far more than in your car training as there is a lot of pride in the biking community in the quality of our road use. You don’t just use a bike for practicality so most people who ride want to be as good at as they can. Good luck - you’ll be fine 😊
Hi. I'm Fank. Love your Channel. I've been riding for 3 years and loving every minute. You will love riding the bigger bike. I found it so much more stable. I look forward to following your journey to your A license. Rooting for you. Ride safe.😊😊
Hi Frank. Thank you for messaging!
We send you our best biker wishes
Keep safe and well 👍👍👍
We're really enjoying your journey. Best of luck with your test Andy. Fingers crossed.
Don’t worry about riding a 600 it’s much easier than a 125 and feels so much more stable , you will love it 👍
Thanks for this 👍
@@bikerofatlantis i agree
600 cc heavy so more stable
600 doesn’t want to bog down like a 125 and first gear has a lot more leg. Makes it feel a more comfortable getting through that low speed regime.
@@lukeorlando4814 I've just got back from another 5 hours ride with a couple of coffee shop stops, I just can not get enough of it, XL1000 and KLZ1000,
I have to admit I don't use any of my 125's now, they are Keeway, Baimo and XL 125's
I'm really loving the conversational format of these videos. It's very refreshing and calming. it almost feels like we're joining you on your journey and learning with you! A huge contrast to other motorbike channels where the riders are experienced and tell you that "this is what you need to do" and "this is what you're doing wrong". Of course, they're right, but sometimes it's nice to see the early parts of someone's riding journey too instead of expecting everyone to be perfect from the get-go. It's giving me the confidence to retake my CBT - I could not complete my first CBT so my confidence took a huge knock and got sick of anything motorbike related until I stumbled onto this channel. Thank you
Retake!!! Let me know how you get on 👍👍👍
I’m really enjoying watching your motorcycling journey & your wife is lovely: the way she listens to you & chips in, very cute! Watching you on the bike I have one serious observation. You are riding in ‘stealth mode.’ The bike is black, your clothing is black & even your helmet is black. You blend into the background perfectly, the exact opposite of what you should be aiming for. Drivers will not see you coming & sooner or later you will get pulled out on, I’m speaking from experience. Please change that lid for a brighter colour & if you can’t get a more colourful jacket think about wearing some form of reflective, hi-vis tabard or vest. If your bike hasn’t got a DRL then make sure you ride with your lights on, dipped beam, even in the daytime. Being seen is imperative to keeping you safe. Keep up the videos, I look forward to each new one as your experience grows.
Thank you very much for watching and your guidance 👍👍
Hi, i passed my test in August and ive been looking for videos like yours. Not many out there showing a true story of how they are finding it. I unfortunately am not getting on my bike as much as you as i have a work van, so only weekend rides are possible. Everything you have experienced is exactly the same as me. Down to the gear we bought, being the same and the same issues with the gear. Loving the videos bud. Ride safe
Hi. Glad it was helpful! How you finding it!
Happy travels
I've just got my CBT at 50 years old. Never driven a car before - the only experience I have of roads and traffic is as a cyclist. So it's all very new and nerve-racking to me. But you're right, once you've done the one day course, you're on your own! I'm lucky that I have a few mates that are all bikers and have had a lot of good advice. But nothing prepares you for being on the road by yourself. I've a lot to learn and the only way to do it is keep going out on my bike. Considering doing my full license next year if I feel confident and ready. Great channel and it's good to see someone else of a similar age who's new to bikes as myself 👍
Hi. Thanks for watching and your comment. Let me know how you get on
@bikerofatlantis Will do. Best of luck with yours and cheers 🙌
I am a similar age and found going on the same roads over and over again helped a lot, then slowly introducing new roads to create mini adventures.
@@daveanderson70 That's good advice. I'm doing similar to yourself at the moment with short journeys around back roads and places that aren't too busy. Becoming familiar with my bike is my first goal, and then venture further afield. Take care 👍
Don’t worry about the big bike, as has been said in previous comments they’re easier than 125s. I did my CBT on July 14th this year and passed my mod2 test on September 5th at 55 after not being on a bike for over 30 years, it’s not as hard as you think. I’m sure you enjoy your journey to your full A license as I did, best of luck and I look forward to watching your progress.
Ok whilst I am enjoying your content, I cannot help but think that as a learner your focus should 100% be on the riding and not trying to vlog or create content at the same time. I just worry for you safety. Just get used to riding a bit more then get the the camera out. I only passed my direct access test around 6 years ago. It took ages for me to get the muscle memory and I still don't consider myself a good or experienced rider. I'm only now starting to put a camera on my bike. My confidence came after my test when I just decided to ride my first long distance ride to the Giants Causeway. I had to just tackle riding through a city (Liverpool) and do the motorway. After that ride, everything seemed to click into place and I became one with the bike. Stay safe pal. Not pissing on your chips, just saying stay safe and don't put pressure to vlog... Just learn the bike first. ❤
Hello. Thanks for watching 👍👍👍
@@bikerofatlantis yes I enjoy your episodes. I'm in Yorkshire too. I started making some videos but they are crap. I like your style. My Mrs would run a mile before getting in front of the camera to help me out making a video. 🤣
Go for it buddy, after 30 years I got back on a bike a year last August and passed my full test in May this year, I have loved the whole experience and as I nudge my way towards retirement, it will definitely make life so much more interesting. Unfortunately, I can't tempted my wife to get on the back or to give it a go herself as yet.
Hi. Great to hear that you are back in the bike 👍 Happy and safe travels
WooHoo!!!... Go for it big guy!! You will not regret it. Not one bit. And Claire. I am sooo hoping to see you getting your CBT also. Best wishes...
Thanks for your message 👍👍👍
Love the content I am a biker 45 years doing so and also a long time caravaner.
Sounds awesome
Ah "the fear"... yeah I get "the fear" anytime I put on my kit. It goes away a few seconds after getting on the bike. I used to get it the hours before getting my kit on. Confidence came with time.
Old biker adage is that you start out biking with a big bag of luck and an empty bag of experience, and you have to make sure to fill up your bag of experience before your bag of luck is emptied and as it does - you will be more prepared, you will feel more confident and you'll forget all your fears.
Getting a bit of apprehension doing something new or getting on the bike is completely natural, and at least for me, it's never gone away.
I love that your wife is onboard for this journey! Even as a pillion, she'll have some skills to learn, riding a bike with a pillion she needs to be in tune with you. Lean when you lean, etc. It'll feel super weird for her initially, but hopefully, she'll get into it.
For what its worth, as a rider, I made a terrible pillion, hated the position, hated not having control over the lean angle 😂 I dont think that's unusual either so if she doesnt like it, it must only mean one thing :) she needs a bike too!!! 😂
@@lmaoroflcopter A great post.
I found your channel purely by happenstance, very down to earth and interesting content. You and your Mrs, see to have a really admirable chemistry with each other. Looking forward to see you progress along in your biking journey, and for your wife to start hers. Safe riding to you both.
Hello. We are glad you found our channel 👍👍👍👍 Thankyou for watching
Don't worry about the size of the engine. Just relax and enjoy the experience. I promise that the longer you ride the more you will enjoy it. Keep the shiny side up and keep smiling 😁
Hi, Thanks for watching 👍👍👍👍
From the states all it takes is a passed written test and a passed drive test. That's it. From that you can ride WHATEVER you can afford. There are safety classes that allow you to skip the drive test but you still have to take and pass a written test. New driver here in California. Only a helmet is needed. I ride a 1300 Yamaha cruiser. I'm a bigger guy so I needed size and umpf. Riding for just over a month and loving it. Keep up your videos! I share your struggles and love your victories, truelly. Respect the throttle and actively scan EVERTRHING! Be safe and God bless.
Hi, Thanks for watching over in California and your comment. Great to hear you are enjoying it as much as me. Ride safely and keep me updated with how you get on
I look forward to seeing the journey through the modern day test. Wishing you great success.
Safe riding brother
Thankyou for watching 👍👍👍 safe travels
As people keep saying, quite rightly so, a bigger engine is far more stable and much easier to control at all speeds, just enjoy it, wish you all the success in the world (ps ya passed my old house near black monk)
Yes the Black Monk pub!
Thankyou for watching 👍
Another good video my friend. Keep up the good work. You’ll be absolutely fine on any size bike. Your only as gonna go as fast as you choose to go. If anything, you will only notice it’s bigger when you’re moving it around manually. I tend to hold my front brake and not the rear at traffic lights while waiting. But a lot of bigger bikes have hill assist now too. In London, that’s normal for mopeds going the wrong way down streets.
Thanks for watching
I did DAS back in 1998. No hazard perception test back then. But I went on to do driver instructor training (for cars) and had to do it then. I got some software to practise on the PC at home and I was failing every time. I checked with my instructor and he told me that I was seeing the hazard too soon! So wait until the hazard develops then hit the button!
Hi. Thanks for watching and this guidance 👍👍👍
Love you videos. You never stop learning on a bike, there is always something new. Like driving, you build up muscle memory. A lot of what you do becomes secondary nature. Along with a lot of bad & good habits. Checking your mirrors while riding is good, checking your mirrors while stationary is even better. To car/ lorry drivers, you're just a dot.
Hi. Thanks for watching and this advice 👍
Keep going you're doing fine and as most folk have said here riding a more powerful motorcycle is far easier than you'd think.....get out of trouble easier with just a quick turn of the throttle
Good on the Mrs for taking up the two wheels too
Stay safe chief
Lev
Hi Lev, Thanks for watching 👍
I'll have to keep an eye out for you on the roads of Barnsley!
Yes yes!!!!
Looking forward to seeing your progress, well done 😊
Thank you
Got my CBT on 14th Nov, my theory on 15th Nov. Im hoping to pass my full A License before the end of Feb for a holiday trip. Somewhere in between that I'll be buying a bike and getting some practice in on winter roads; big fingers crossed
Good luck let me know how how you get on 👍👍
So glad to here your going for your Das , you will love it Andy can’t wait to see it 👏👏👏👍
Watch this space 😂😂😂😂
Good luck with your theory hope you passed. As a 24 year old I’ve decided I’m going to learn to ride a bike. Will look to booking my cbt when I can and then start with a 125. Don’t want to rush it, you need to respect these machines. It’s nice to see new riders of all ages getting into it. Looking forward to your future videos.
Hi. Thanks for watching and good luck on your bike journey. Let me know how you get on
Just go fir the bigger bike dude. I drove for 28 years and got my CBT. The jump from 125 to 650 was a bit of a shock but you pick it up really easy. Your road sense will get you through it no problem. Get it done 👍🏻
👍👍
Hi There
Been watching your adventures starting out on a bike and loving it. One more soul saved Lol.
I started biking and did a direct access and bought a honda hornet 600 (lovely fun bike) that was in and around 2005 then sold it it a few years later due to change of circumstances.
Recently, I got back into riding again, and bought a Triumph T120 bonneville black.
So so nice and s gorgeous bike, but very different from to an inline 4.
You will be fine on a 600, as everyone else has said the bike will be more stable.
Good luck
Ooosh a Bonneville. Nice! Happy and safe travels
I passed my bike test back in 1986 and messed about on smaller bikes for a few years, then gave it all up. I recently retired and had that midlife crisis moment and decided I wanted to get back on a bike. I bought a modern classic, Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 twin and despite taking time to regain my slow speed balance, which by the way is fairly good now, I'm loving the biking experience ❤
Royal Enfield, what a gorgeous bike 👍
Good luck pal im sure you will nail it, Squires cafe ❤ ride safe Gaz
👍👍
As others have said, I found the bigger 600 so much easier to ride than the smaller 125. Looking forward to the videos, ride safe 😎👍
👍👍👍
Good point on the CBT, as an ex instructor in Barnsley, I was always aware on how little the younger students knew about the highway code, even had one guy not stop at a give way, and almost ran into a bus.
He didn't realise priority had changed and didn't THINK it matters, just like the guy on the scooter on the one way street, had you been in a car or van it might have been a different story.
Hello in Barnsley! Thanks for watching 👍👍👍
My wife had a Honda Shadow 125 briefly. She didn’t take to it, too cold! Plus she had family issues at the time and couldn’t ride it enough to become confident. The one thing she did notice is all the fellas staring when she got off the bike and took her helmet off. I think she quite enjoyed that part! Good luck to you (both?) for the future.
😂😂👍👍
In America as far as I know thier is no size limit for beginners. Here in Kentucky where I live you have to take a written test to get the motorcycle learners permit. You ride with no passengers daylight hours only for a certain amount of time then you take the riders test later to get your full license. I myself took a motorcycle safety course after I got my permit and that let me wave the actual riders test. I highly recommend the riders safety course to everyone.
Hi thanks for watching and sharing
Happy riding 👍
Really enjoying your channel. I learnt to ride 27 years ago, and I’ve just got back onto a bike after a 20’year break. I was really surprised at how nervous I was and it took me a good 6 months to start feeling comfortable again. As a 53 year old, I’m probably more risk averse / risk conscious than I was. Probably no bad thing.
Great to read this. Happy and safe travels to you 👍👍👍
Great to see you moving up and progressing. I'm doing the same thing, and I'm 49, but I'm doing it in Portugal. I passed my bike theory and hazard perception test back in 2010 in the UK, but then a change in circumstances led me to moving to Hong Kong for ten years, and now Portugal. One thing here is that we can still ride a 125 indefinitely without L plates on our car licences. I'll keep watching your updates, mate.
Hi. You’ve been to some interesting places. Thanks for watching 👍👍
Did my full licence and cbt from November last year had bikes up to 250 cc in the 80’s ,passed it all in march this year first time .never bothered with 125 cc bikes as I’d had one years ago .been on 600 cc bike since early this year ,much better than 125 cc ,also been driving a car for years .i did the police bike safe course a few weeks ago for about 60 quid ,its all good training and well worth the money ,don’t rush the mod 1 and mod 2 ,set goals for spring next year to get it passed .Being on the bigger bikes is a totally different experience ,feels better and safer .125cc bikes are ok but you feel vulnerable and not really part of the traffic ,bigger bikes are much better as you feel you command your space on the road .Good luck with your full licence ,it’ really is is the best way to go if you enjoy 2 wheels .
Hi, Thanks for watching 👍👍👍👍
Did my cbt 21 years ago and not looked back
Training is fine but the main issues we have is some people don’t care about road rules so going the wrong way doesn’t bother them.
Your doing great and good luck with mod 1
Thankyou 👍
Glad you are cracking on with the full licence, as others have said, you'll feel so much better on a bigger bike and no need to feel intimidated by it,. With the hazard perception test, back when i did it you can click more than once, think a max of 5-8 clicks and you can be stupidly marked down for spotting the hazard to early (make it make sense) people think you get one click per hazard clip, just check to make sure that is still the case. I could see you both on a touring bike travelling around Europe one day and its great Claire is so supportive and interested in bikes.
Hi. Thanks for watching and your comment 👍
I’m just getting back on two wheels after a long 10 year break, and love your videos as it helps me remember all the learning I did first time, just brought a 899cc ninja… got to admit, I’ve missed having a bike!
Happy riding
Hey, I started doing my DAS same week you published your first vlog. I’ve now done two rides on 650cc bike having done 8 on a 125cc under instruction. Am also same age as you. As everyone says a bigger bike is so much more confidence inspiring as everything is easier, more power and better handling. Don’t feel as exposed in traffic as much.
This is great news! Let me know how you get on 👍👍👍
Having passed my A test a couple of years ago, I can tell you that there isn’t much to worry about. Increase in engine size is better as you will feel more stable and as a bigger guy it will just be a better fit. With regards to Mod1 you really have to focus. Most people fail due to silly mistakes. I failed my first attempt because I was meant to do an emergency stop and just did a controlled stop!!! Someone suggested to talk myself out loud around it and it seemed to work. Your biggest enemy is nerves. So get a good breakfast and breathe. Mod2 is a doddle. Just ride safely and treat the examiner as a sat nav in your ear. Remember that they aren’t trying to fail you. They want to see that you are safe. Good luck with the journey. Life on two wheels is the absolute best.
Hi Thanks for watching and your advice here. Happy travels 👍👍
This looks interesting. Subbed. I passed my bike test in 83 on a Honda 250 Dream. Really easy 😀
Hi. Thanks for watching and subscribing 👍👍
It’s not often I get hooked on a channel, really enjoying this and I admire your attitude to biking and allowing yourself to feedback from all - this approach I’m certain will keep you safe and sound.
Once you’re on the 650cc Kawasaki, you should actually find it easier to ride, especially all the slow speed stuff. More torque on the back wheel during slow speed manoeuvres massively helps to keep the bike upright.
Embrace it, and honestly the only advice or warning as you swap machines is that they go and stop a lot faster - mainly your introduction couple of hours will sort this observation.
Theory test, check the tube as there’s some very helpful videos on when to press the button as you spot a potential and actual hazard, there’s actually a hack to it and not very clear otherwise.
MOD 1 - I can tell from previous videos that you’ll have zero issues, just think of it as an elaborate CBT, and a great opportunity to understand your machine. I suffered a “false neutral” so stalled (my only minor) so don’t trust the neutral light, as you’ll stop loads to speak with the examiner - comes under machine control.
MOD 2 - Whilst it’s easy to forget the saying “ride your own ride” when you have what looks like a Police bike behind you, but it’s fantastic advice. This test along with the MOD 1 is only a check of understanding/training, you’ve done enough to get there so you ARE at this stage capable. The examiner mainly wishes to see a safe ride from you. Just forget he’s there, don’t hold back for him, just ride. If you turn left or at least committed to when he said right , still turn left - thats not a fail or even a fault, but then panicking last second changing from left to right and making a mess of it causing other road users/pedestrians to change speed/direction would then make it a fault. And don’t forget MOD 2 many say is easier than the MOD 1.
Your methodical and open approach I’m certain will see you fly through this, and enjoy as when I did my DAS at the age of 41 was the best thing I’ve ever done (considering I have a flying licence too!).
I’ll look forward to seeing you around this neck of the woods (Essex) as I’m certain you’ll be everywhere once you have the licence.
What’s really crucial (to my mind) is to continue your training and Police Bike Safe and Fire Bike are amazing, and for next to no cost. In a heartbeat you’ll really focus on advanced road positioning and I fully believe everyone should do this, and more.
What a mega journey mate, welcome to the amazing world of motorcycling ❤
Hi. Absolutely delighted to read this guidance, thank you very much for taking the time to share. I am really interested in training so will definitely look to this
Thankyou again 👍
there's a lot to learn... even after 30 years of having a full car drivers licence. there's things specific to riding a Motorcycle that just aren't a consideration in a car. & 10 months after first trying out 2 wheels and an engine on the road. there's still a lot to learn. Today it was 100's of Kilometres of gravel to learn on (and great photo's) Learning from experimentation is my thing, but watching and talking to experienced guys, and then putting to practice what they teach is invaluable!
Hi 👋 Thanks
Im hoping it might be the same app that was already recommended to you by your instructor guy. The 4 in 1 DVSA app is absolutely amazing. Ive yet to do my CBT but have just passed my theory as i thought itd be the easier of the 2. i passed first time. Barring some wording differences the 700 or so questions on the app are the same as on the actual test so it was invaluable. It also has hazard perception mocks and clips on the app aswell. All of it completely free. Good luck on your DAS course. ill be trying my CBT soon and im nervous af.
Good luck on the CBT
Let me know how you get on 👍👍👍
Great video, you have definitely got the bug. Don't worry about a bigger bike, you will be fine and you will love it. Yes, the bikes are heavier and more powerful, but they are much more stable. You will do great, enjoy it, you are a safe rider. As for the scooter up the one-way street i bet he was a delivery driver. Watch then buggers they have no morals. I would like to say they are not all like that.
Hi. Thanks for this and for watching
Hiya. I learned to ride when I was 12. It was on 125 off road bikes. We call them dirt bikes. I would recommend taking an off road training course as well. It give a different feel and augments your skills for handling the unexpected. I enjoy both your channels and think you two are a hoot!
Thanks you for watching 👍👍👍
I did my CBT with an 18 yr old (I was 46 at the time) with no experience as well. He did not pass. The CBT does depend on your instructor. Some will see it as easy money and pass you quickly on a bare minimum while others will use the whole day and teach you a little beyond what is required to keep you alive. I didn't use the CBT as such going straight onto the full 1 weeks course. It's worth doing if even you stick to the smaller bike for now. As for your question - I don't think it's right to only ever have to do a CBT every 2 years staying a permanent learner seems crazy.
Hi. This is similar to me on the CBT with a younger rider. Safe travels
I was really on the fence about doing my CBT and came across this channel. Convinced me to go for it! I love the content, no showing off just really honest experiences from the view of a beginner rider, great video as always
When are you booked in!!
@bikerofatlantis got it booked for the 20th November, just hoping it doesn't rain!!
Hiya Andy and Claire - great vid as always and its great to see you progressing. There are also many other youtubers that give great advice - i found "DanDanTheFireman" a really good informative and thought provoking chanel as he teaches you how to be prepared- he also does accident analysis so we all learn.
When you go to Squires there's also "The Motorist" that's just a mile or two down the road that's also worth a visit.
Enjoy your visit to Squires and I hope it's not dead. I went last Thursday afternoon and there was plenty there 👍
Hi. How are you? We are very much looking forward to a visit! Thanks for watching. Have a great evening 👍👍
Hello, nice to follow your progress, as we've started somewhat at the same time, and age.
Looks like you've had much more opportunities to ride than I have, but I'm happy with what I've been able to ride and learn. Progressing slowly, striving to keep on the safe side. We're so much slower having even fairly small strains and bruises to heal than the younger ones, we can't afford those injuries.
Smiled at your comment on the need to get the bike in for service... that's the benefit (and curse, in a way) of having a new bike. Myself, I've declared the end of the riding season (the bike did do its part in this, by slightly seizing the front brake), and yesterday pulled apart the front brake caliper - it was in quite a yucky condition, so high time for service. So I'm starting the other side of my learning path, to actually learn to maintain the bike by myself, and planning to enjoy that part as well. Today to continue by cleaning up the disassembled parts, but after that will need to leave it for a while, until the ordered spare/maintenance kit arrives.
Hi. Thanks for watching and your comment 👍
When I did my license back in 2000 I did direct access. I am a big chap and couldn’t get on a 125 so finished my CBT on a 500. Then by the end of the week I did my test. Sadly the bike broke down and didn’t finish the test. So a week later passed. Been riding ever since. I did advanced test in 2010 with the IAM. In 2019 I became an observer for the IAM and now I’m chef observer. I passed my National observer a year ago. So in 24 years I’ve done a lot. Every time I’m out you always see something silly or dangerous. No matter what you do that feeling of ( there out to kill me) is there at the back of your mind. It’s there to keep you alive. I enjoy riding and if I can help someone to enjoy there ride more I’m happy.
Hi. Bad luck that it broke down! This is great to read 👍👍👍Thankyou
Took my CBT around twenty years ago with no previous experience, followed by five two hour lessons on a 500cc bike using the direct access route a couple of weeks later. Rode for a few years but came back to it this year after a ten year break. Everything came back to me pretty quickly but I discovered a few things, primarily that I enjoy riding alone. Take your time. It is one of the most enjoyable skills I’ve learned.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 👍
Have a wonderful day everyone. Ride safe!
I’m a new rider and CBT is definitely not enough in my opinion. One day is just not enough to then be getting on the road and riding a vehicle. I considered an intensive course but glad I didn’t and did my DAS instead. Again, 4 days intensive is not enough - in one hour you can ride a motorbike, but those 3 months of training teach you the important stuff like checks, position etc
For the theory test I used the Motorcycle Theory Test UK app and it was superb. Very accurate to the actual test.
Good luck going on getting your full licence!
Can I ask what mic you’re using for narration? DJI Mic 2 or similar?
The first ride on the 600 will feel like a rocket haha! It will be the first time when you truly “ get it” !
👍👍👍 thanks for watching
Great video, I passed my theory test today and am now looking to do mod 1 next year. Just to be safe you might want to take a couple of weeks to revise the theory 😅
Good luck with your mod1
@@bikerofatlantis and your test. Can't wait to see how your journey from here goes :)
Go for that A license, I passed mine in December 23, and wow what an experience, worth all the work , and it feels great when you pass it!
Go for that CBT you can do it! Love your channel 😁👍
Sue
Hi Sue. Watch this space 👍👍👍👍
I took my first cbt at 48. I originally only wanted a 125 to commute the 5 miles into work. At the time, the instructor suggested I go for my A licence but I wasn't confident enough. So long story short, I ended up taking my cbt 3 times before finally passing at 54. I have been loving riding around in my Honda Rebel 500 every since. I just wish I'd taken my full test sooner. You're doing the right thing. Strike while the iron is hot.
Great bike got one love it
Hi. Good advice 👍
I passed my full bike in the 80s and tbh it was less intenseive than the current cbt. If you got short legs like me right foot down cause its nearer the crown of the road. Top vid, nice one!
Hi. Thanks for watching 👍👍👍
Try riding in London. All the couriers ride round in cbts mostly without any regards of any rules. Throw in a sprinkling of cyclists (electric or otherwise) who seem to think road rules don’t apply (and are not insured), electric scooters that can be on the road, bikelanes or pavement (whatever they like) and pedestrians stepping into the road without looking. Then add in minicabs, black cabs, busses and white vans on top of ‘regular’ drivers. When I just had my cbt and just passed my full license I didn’t like to filter, but you soon learn it actually is essential to keep you safe by getting out of traffic. And I haven’t even mentioned bike jackings!
In regards to riding a 600cc more than likely you’ll find it almost easier than your 125. The added weight also gives more stability at low speed. Good luck!
Hi. Thanks for watching and your comment 👍
Did my training and test on an mt 07 , the feeling of coming out onto the public road for the first time was absolutely amazing! The stability and compliance of the bike was a game changer. Literally changed my life. Can’t wait to see your reaction to it all
👍👍
Ey up
Took my bike test in late 1968 and passed first time. Anybody my age will recall there weren’t many, if any, places to take bike lessons. When I thought I was ready I applied for my test. I can’t remember how you did that back then, the internet hadn’t been invented. It could have been at the post office or through the post I don’t recall, anyone remember?
Back then we swapped monthly magazines with riding tips and taught each other while out riding. But mostly we learnt by experience which is far better than watching videos. I later went on to enroll in an Advance Riders course when I was 26/27 years old
Good luck, every days a learning day
Hi. Thanks for taking the time to share this, great story! Have a great weekend 👍👍👍👍
You will love the bigger bike Andy..... All the best on your full license,, you will do it nae bother 👍👍👍, have a great weekend guy's 🍻🍻
Thankyou x
In Pennsylvania you take the written test and receive a permit. With a permit you can only ride along side a licensed rider but you can choose any bike. Once you have a permit and are ready you can take your skills test for your license. If you are like me and have nobody to ride with there is a Free 3 day course you can take and at the end of the course is a skills test. If you pass you get your license. I think it’s the same in most of the US. 50 years old studying for the permit test at the moment. Enjoying the videos and listening to your learning experience. 👍…also, I’m thinking I might purchase the Indian Scout Bobber…anybody have thoughts on this bike?
Hi. Enjoying reading how other states manage the licences. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 👍
Good luck with the next stage of your adventure, you’ll be fine. As others have said a bigger bike is far more responsive and therefore easier to ride in most situations. The biggest bonus for you getting a full licence is that you live in an area with some of the best biking roads in the whole country but a 125cc isn’t enough to cope with the steeper inclines as you get out near the dales and moors. Keep safe
Thanks for watching 👍
Very exciting, I elft it until my CBT runs out, not much wiggle room left, I should have done it sooner. Anyway today was my last lesson, MOD 1 on Tuesday MOD 2 on Thursday - here is hoping. Either way, I do feel a lot more of an acomplished rider than I did four lessons ago, you will definitly benefit from the Theory exam as well, you will drive differently afterwards as well. Good luck and looking forward to watching your DAS journey and also for Mrs BoA on her CBT journey!
Good look with your test, let me know how you get on 👍👍
Best of luck to you like many others have already said you will be surprised once you get your head around the weight of a bigger bike you will find it is a lot more stable and easy to control at low speed than a 125 your head is already in the right place knowing you need to learn and practice to be able to ride as safely as you can on the road is half the battle.Again best of luck and welcome to what is an absolutely enormous biker family
A great biker family it is as well 👍👍👍
I follow your other channel as i have a motorhome, love this channel as your doing exactly what i did last year, i was 57 then, did my CBT, theory & training (8x 3hr lessons) passed MOD 1 & 2 in 2 ½ months, now riding a 650cc bike which i tow on the back of the motorhome on a low, side mounting trailer, even the wife & little dog (in backpack) go on the bike. You'll find the bigger bike a lot easier & smoother to ride than the 125cc, i used to play back in my head what the instructor had been telling me during training and put these in to practice when out on my 125cc, looking forward to seeing you progress to you A licence.
Hi. Thanks for supporting and watching our channels 👍👍 happy and safe travels to you
passed my test Monday, cant wait to upgrade to a bigger bike, they just feel more solid.
Congrats. Happy riding 👍👍
They sure are. Well done on passing your test. Go easy though.
I did my mod 1 and 2 last December for me that experience in bad and cold weather is something I appreciate now. The day of my mod 2 it was day after boxing day it was like a torrential rainfall!! Totally thought I had failed. But I'd done enough I believe the weather and dealing with it helped. Good luck mate. I came out of it with so many more skills and more confidence on the road.
Hi. Good to hear you passed! Thanks for watching 👍👍
I passed my A license in 1977 in the days when all you had to do was ride up and down the street a couple of times then answer three highway code questions. I'm 65 now and hadn't been on a bike for 35 years until I decided to start again last month. After advice from the salespeople at West Coast Triumph in Glasgow I bought a Triumph Speed 400. I'm loving the bike and it's been a perfect restart bike for me and all the old skills are coming back, but omg the first week was scary. Next year I'm planning to trade up to a 1200cc Bonneville T120. I'm loving your video's Andrew, good luck with your journey.
Like you I'm back to riding again after 30 years (passed in 1991) I gave up after a drunk driver sent me over the bonnet. Was terrified for the 1st week, even getting petrol in a can because I didn't wanna ride through town traffic, now loving my 650 and have the "bug" again. Balance at slow speed was my worry! I just wish I started again in the spring rather than late summer.
This is fabulous 👍👍 love that you are back on a bike. Keep safe, happy travels and sleep in touch 👍👍👍👍
Don’t be worrying Andy. From CBT to MOD2, I only every rode the riding school bike. So only went on a bike for lessons. Passed all my modules 1st time. You have the benefit of using your bike all the time to gain more experience. So, I’m sure you will fly through. It doesn’t matter which leg you have down, there’s no right or wrong, although you might need your foot brake for Hill starts. Good luck 👍
Thanks for this 👍 happy travels
Right leg is down so the left foot can operate the gear leaver.
👍👍
You are partly right, but once you've come to a standstill and know it's going to be some time until you can move again, select neutral and your right foot back on the rear brake. Or if you know it won't be long before you move off you can hold in the clutch but with your foot on the rear brake. If some idiot runs into the back of you without your foot on the rear brake, which only means your back wheel roles up over their bonnet and launches you into whatever. So remember LEFT foot down because if I'm out and I see your right foot I'm gonna ride along side you and stamp real hard on your foot. 😂
Ride safe. One Love. 😊
Love the honesty of your footage.. i did the 600cc training and did test and the wing mirror kept turning loose 😂 failed mod 1 cos i put foot down on figure of 8 then failed mod 2 on hesitation on lane at a roundabout .. i think nerves got the better of me .. the instructor was and ex police who was not forgiving! Needless to say i pushed on and passed the mod 1&2.. enjoy your journey and I look forward to watching 🙌
Congrats on the pass!! Thanks for watching and your comment 👍
Passed my A licence last year so this is going to be fun to watch! I'm also looking forward to seeing Claire learning to ride, good luck to both of you. As others have said the class A bike you'll learn on is most noticeably heavier than your 125 and obviously much faster, but the extra power only happens when you make it so just get used to moving your wrist less! The bigger bike is also easier to balance and control slowly as just a slight letting out of the clutch will stand it back up and it's less likely to stall.
My instructor said to me the day I started on the Suzuki SV650 "you're going to hate your 125 after today". He was right...
😂😂 thanks for this. Happy riding 👍
What an incredible progress you are making - just cannot wait seeing you on a 600cc. As for CBT, one day ride is sufficient to learn the basics of motorcycling.
Hi. Thanks for watching. Safe travels
Hello Andy. You were talking about using some weatherproofing on your motircycle. I'm not sure where you mentioned it, though. I found this ACF-50 A10013 Motorcycle and Automotive All Metal Anti-Corrosion Spray 369ml. I have never used it, but plenty of people say it's good. I will be trying it out this year on my new bike 🏍
Hi. Thanks for this tip and for watching
@bikerofatlantis cheers 🍻
i chose the rebel 1100 as my first bike. here in the states, you can pass the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's road test, where you ride for about 14-16 hours, pass their test, then you can go to the DMV and pass the written test, and there's your motorcycle license. and we don't have CC restrictions. I'm glad I started with 1100, I never felt 'stunted' with a smaller bike.
Love the content, and I swear when you speak you sound like Ricky Gervais. lol. Cheers!
Hi. Great bike 👍 Happy travels
I’ve been told that before 😂😂😂😂
That’s great Andy that you feel confident enough to move to the next step iam sure you will do just fine with it mate the one thing you have more than the younger learners is years of road sense which will keep you in good shape for it..goodluck Andy onward to victory 👍🏻
Thanks 🤩
I passed my motorcycle test back in 1999, but only got my first bike when I was 52. Fortunately, I’ve been driving cars and HGVs for many years, so the Highway Code wasn’t really an issue. When I decided to get a bike I purchased a 300cc. I also decided to book up extra lessons (refresher course) with a qualified instructor to spend 2 days with. That did me the “world of good”.
As everyone else has said, do not fear the 600cc. They really are easier to handle. You mentioned a Kawasaki. Could it be the Z650…if so, it’s a great bike to ride as “ a first big bike”. I think you’ll love it. 😊
Good luck on your motorcycle journey.. 😊😊
Thanks for watching and the assurance 👍
Look forward to your journey. it will be really interesting to watch and give me an insight into what my hubby did to pass his test (11 years ago) Oh wow Claire, I really admire you for even saying you would get on a bike. The only horse power I had was the four legged sort.
Hi 👋 thanks for watching 👍👍👍
Hey up you two, CLAIRE!!! It’s supposed to be a family show!! “You can have me on the back then” tone it down please!!
Haha!
Feel for you big lad with all this you have to go through to get your licence.
I passed my test in 1979, applied for a provisional, bought a 250cc to learn on, applied for my test on my 17th birthday, the 1st day I was allowed on the road, passed it 3 months later! Test was 15mins long, told to ride round street a few times, asked me 5 questions on highway code and that was it, next day went down to dealer and ordered a new 750cc! Still alive today! Good old days!
You’re doing good Andrew.
I always put right foot down when stopped, you can hold it on front brake with a couple of fingers and this leaves your left foot to drop into neutral whilst stood then when lights change your foot is already on the peg ready to shift into 1st with no hesitation.
Keep up the good work,
Steve, over the hill 👍
Hi. Claire here 🤷♀️ 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Thanks for watching and we love to read your comment. Keep safe
I did my CBT in June 2022 and rode a 125 for 3 months, did 3000 miles in that time, enjoyed so much that by mid September had done my direct access and never looked back.
Ridden 25,000 miles since then and now its my main hobby. Went on to undertake the IAM training and that transformed my riding.
Go for it, hope you enjoy the journey as much as i have.
Sounds great. Happy travels
Hi, don't worry about it. I went from never riding, to cbt and passing my full in 11 days. I hated my cbt due to how light the clutch and everything was on the 125, really struggled, but as soon as I got onto the Z650 for mod1 and 2, I loved it, its so much more stable. slow speed stuff is so much easier as I could feel the clutch more, I loved it.
Hi. Sounds great 👍
you'll be fine mate, bigger engines are easier to control at low speed than small 125's from my experience
Hi, thanks for watching
Hi Andy - I used to ride bikes in the late 60's/ early 70's in all weathers on a full motor bike licence which is still valid today. I wore a one-piece light blue outfit for visibility. You are more vulnerable riding a black bike and all black outfit in today's busy traffic. Just a day-glow over-jacket could make you more visible to idiots who are likely to pull out of a sideroad and catch you out. Stay safe!
Hi. Claire bought me a high vis vest for my birthday. Im a lucky boy 😂😂😂
If you can get round Stairfoot roundabout, you're 90% of the way there 👍
👍👍😂
Honestly, I found that the 125 bikes were a lot harder to ride than my first bike which was a Bandit 600. I wouldn’t worry about that transition at all. I now ride a Triumph Speed Triple 1050R, and recently had a ride of a friends 125 and It was so much trickier. Throttle is jerky, bike is unstable, getting blown about….. trust me, you’ll love it when you get onto a bigger bike.
I have been looking at Triumphs 👍👍
@@bikerofatlantisas a fellow 50 year old who has recently passed my test I can highly recommend both the speed 400 or trident as a first bigger bike 👍
Cracking video as usual mate. You are by far doing the right thing. You should be preparing more, you should be aware of your behaviour on your road. And you are! These delivery drivers often just share a bike. They don't even have the CBT. As I mentioned in previous comments, I've been riding in a CBT for 4 years. Passed my mod 1, got my mod 2 booked next week.
When I passed my CBT I sat there watching bike accident videos on TH-cam lol. It made me far more aware.
Good luck next week. Let me know how you get on
@@bikerofatlantis cheers mate will do. Will be over the moon if I pass. I mean I failed my CBT twice originally, and my mod 1 failed once, so I'm open to failing again hahaha. Either way, fail = rebook. Think of your mod 1 first time as a practice run.
I passed my CBT a year ago on a scooter, wanted to get used to riding without the worry about gears!
Last month went back and did a practice on a geared bike, started off on a 125 then went straight on a 600. Felt amazing on the 600cc So like you I need to get my theory done and get my A licence.
Sounds great. Thanks for watching 👍
You’re easily ready for the DAS. A 600 is the sweet spot in my opinion too. Still small enough for fun and large enough to handle traffic and major roads. You’ll love it. The theory and Highway Code learning is a continual process though. I still have my copy now and need to refer to it regularly for advanced riding and it shows you how much other road users forget or don’t know. Safe riding.
Safe riding back at you! Thanks for watching 👍
The bigger bikes make everything easier. I think 125cc have a harder time and some of the 125 people are well practiced rider's as they use the bike every day experience is the best teacher
Good advice 👍
Really enjoying the videos of your journey.
In my late 40'a now, did my CBT in May, theory test passed and planning on tacking the direct access next year. Always wanted a bike, but something always got in the way, so decided it was now or never.
My kids both lesrningbto drive, bot failed the theory test. How hard could it be? I failed a couple of practice ones online, figured my car driving experience would see me though and while it helps, using one of the apps to study/practice really helped ans I passed the real thing first time.
Keep up the good work.
Hi. Happy riding. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 👍
Great to hear your planning ahead for the bigger test ! Little tip regarding practicing the Hazard perception. Check the app you’re using because some if not all tell you when you clicked … a lot of experience drivers such as yourself find that they clicking to early because of when your seeing the developing / hazard. So try this …
When you first see it count 1or 2 seconds before clicking and see if that helps you . I also did my Theory on an app and hammered it for a month ! You know most of it from driving it’s just a tweak in any updates regarding the high way code . Your right on the CBT should be more than a days course and should prob include passing the theory test before attending the CBT . I rode for 2 yrs on my CBT because of Covid ! But that time in really did help for more practice and knowledge / experience … I’m sure you will do fine and doing well now . Best of luck for going forward. .
Can’t wait for Claire to learn too😊 it’s good to be a pillion but when you’re doing it yourself it’s a whole new ball game . And wow ! 😊
Julie 4 ft 11 😊
Hi Julie. Love the tips here, Thankyou 👍
That's great news, excited for you big man!
I've struggled a lot with learning how to ride, but it was worth every ounce of sweat and every penny every time I fire up my big bike.
I hope you'll stay with us cruiser riders for your next bike!
And good luck to your wife as well, a new rider is born, that's always epic
I do like Cruisers…. !!
Thanks for watching 👍
@@bikerofatlantis if you ever come up to Scotland I'll let you try my old, grumpy VN800 then 😎
Hi guys, another informative vlog with your biking journey! Glad you are going for further training and heading for your A2 licence, and we think Claire could have your 125 😁 you will love the bigger bike and we look forward to which bike you choose 🤔 as for that chap going the wrong way, he could just have made a mistake? I have personally been the wrong way down a one-way bus only lane.....in France 🙄🙄 2-up on BMW 1100 ... We've all done it. Stay safe Andy & Lyn.
Thankyou 👍👍👍👍❤️
So pleased for you that your enjoying it so much , and fully encourage you to continue your training , every days a school day , never had to do the theory tests , can be tricky as there are sometimes sneaky unclear choices and answers , not very productive for helping people get better when they decieve you ! all the very best
Hi. Thanks for watching 👍👍
oh i would love to see clare's take on learning the CBT
Eeeek!
@@bikerofatlantis do it, do it, do it
Enjoying your journey - keep it up. Lots to pick up from this vid…
1. CBT is definitely not enough training if you do it and then think you are trained to ride on the road. You’ve done things the right way in the sense you have continued to practice with a view to taking your A licence test - I get the feeling a lot of people don’t! (particularly those who need a small cc motorbike/moped for a delivery job).
2. You’ll love the 600 and you’ll get to grips with it in minutes I suspect. Everything is easier and I think you’ll notice the difference with slow speed control. It won’t be a sports bike, likely an er-6 (if they still make them) which is the middle ground between a sports bike and a cruiser (like yours). Again you’ll find everything easier because it’s designed as a starter (big) bike.
3. I’m a similar age to you but did my bike test 20 odd years ago (so didn’t have to fanny around with mod1 and 2 😂). Did have to do the theory - practice! Otherwise it’ll catch you out. Be careful with hazard perception - because you’re an experienced driver you will find you spot the hazard earlier than the window they specify, I nearly failed mine because of this!
The practical training has a lot of advanced riding in it, far more than in your car training as there is a lot of pride in the biking community in the quality of our road use. You don’t just use a bike for practicality so most people who ride want to be as good at as they can.
Good luck - you’ll be fine 😊
Hello. Thank you for taking the time to comment and provide such guidance and help. Have a great evening 👍👍👍👍