CB500X - Solo Norway trip Part 39 - Home again
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 เม.ย. 2024
- This is Part 35 of my trip completing my 7 week journey and reaching home again. Having had a great day walking round Bruges the previous day I set off to Calais, via Dunkirk. I crossed into France somewhere along the way, but again, didn't notice where or when and arrived in Dunkirk. I had hoped to walk some of the beaches, but the parking areas I came across didn't inspire me with confidence to leave all the gear alone for too long. So I had a very quick walkabout before hearing off to Calais for the train back to Folkestone, UK. I arrived at the terminal very early and was allocated an earlier train, welcomed back to the by the unending roadworks that are the UK motorways, arriving home a couple of hours later that evening.
The whole journey took me through the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden and into Norway right the way up to Nordkapp, the furthest point you can travel by motorcycle or car in mainland Europe and then back through Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, Belgium and France over a 7 week period late May - mid July 2023
I am back in the UK now, but please do add your comments and I'll get back to you.
Choice of background music? I use the library provided by my editing software Cyberlink PowerDirector which is meant to copyright approved, but it is being challenged by the copyright owner, so my choice of music, which was always a bit limited is even more so now. Ho hum!
Hoping you can "Like" the video, as this does help the channel.
MANY THANKS to everyone who has watched, liked, commented, subscribed!!!!
All my best wishes, thanks again for watching
Nick
CB500X 2022 model
Hepco & Becker Tank bars
Rally Raid CB500X 2019-on Engine Guard-RRP 747
SW Motech Footrest Kit
R&G Kickstand Shoe-RRP 474
Outback Motortek Pannier rack and Rear rack (including exhaust heat shield)
Metzeler Tourance Next tyres
SW-Motech dry bag (60 litres)
Lomo dry bag motorcycle waterproof panniers -soft
Oxford tank bag (need to use rain cover in heavy rain)
Garmin Zumo XT GPS device
Rally Raid Billet Multi-Mount for 12mm (1/2") Crossbar - part number RRP 643
GoPro Hero 10 (helmet mounted)
Adhesive universal helmet mount for GoPro
Purple Panda microphone (helmet mounted)
Sonicake wireless microphone (walking about)
Insta360 X3
DJI mini 3 Drone
Vango Tryfan 300 (3 person tent)
Sea to Summit Camp Plus Self Inflating Camping Mat
Trekology air bag (topping up mat inflation)
SLAAPLEKKER 800 Goose down mummy sleeping bag
Eurohike sleeping bag liner
Trekology Aluft pillow
Cyberlink PowerDirector 365 - video editing
RST textile jacket
RST textile trousers (slight seepage in crutch area in heavy rain)
TCX Airtech 3 Gore-tex boots
Nolan 80 helmet
Thanks for taking me along Nick. I’ve watched all your videos from day 1. I have the same bike as you, and have been to quite a few of the places you’ve visited too. I travel with both you and Itchyboots!
Travel insurance costs are holding me back at the moment, but I hope to resume foreign bike travel again sometime soon. Thanks again Nick....
Many thanks for tagging along with me! The world is full of wonderful places isn't it! I hope you resolve the travel insurance issue soon
Nick
Many thanks for sharing your adventures with us. It helps brighten gloomy days and take our minds off things !
Happy to hear that! Many thanks
Nick
Thanks for taking us Nick -- enjoyed it a lot but I bet you enjoyed it even more.
You bet! Many thanks Stephen
Nick
Thank you so much for a very informative and beautiful trip. And of course welcome Home… ❤️
Thank you too! 😃
Nick
Thank you for the wonderful series. Was the highlight of my Saturday mornings. We are going September to Norway so is also very helpful, we have not been since the late 90's. Simon and Simona
Many thanks and have a great trip, I'm sure you'll see many changes since your last visit
Nick
A lovely series of videos showing some wonderful parts of the world. Your calm and quiet manner make it easy and relaxing to watch.👍
Many thanks for taking the time to comment
Nick
Excellent series of videos. Thank you very much for posting. Loved every one of them.
Great to hear! Many thanks
Nick
👍 thank you , I'll miss my Saturday morning video , I've thoroughly enjoyed the series .
Many thanks James, giving you back 20 mins every weekend now 😊
Nick
Thanks Nick, an epic trip and memories for life. Look forward to following your next adventure ! 🙂✌🏻
Yes indeed, some super memories. Next trip... not sure yet. Many thanks
Nick
A big thank you Nick for taking us along with you on your wonderful journey.The pace of the journey, Editing and narrating are a credit to you I'm sure you will have inspired some of your followers to go on a journey be it large or small ,well done.
Many thanks Ian, very much appreciated. I think the message is, do it if you have the opportunity while you can
Nick
Welcome back and many thanks for taking all of us with you. Had been an amazing trip ❤
Thanks, much appreciated
Nick
Nick, enjoyed all your videos from Day 1. Helped me through our Canadian winter, where my Rebel 1100T is resting in the garage. Thanks for sharing!
Many thanks and I hope you can get out on the Rebel soon!
Nick
J'ai regardé toutes tes vidéos et j'ai adoré. Quel magnifique voyage. Merci Nick de m'avoir fait voyager avec toi
Un grand merci d'avoir voyagé avec moi !
Nick
Thank you for the ride! It was a joy from beginning to end.
Many thanks Tom
Nick
Welcome back to good old Blighty 🇬🇧 I enjoyed every episode 👍🏻
Many thanks, much appreciated
Nick
What a great trip! 7 weeks well spent and I enjoyed the series very much. Thank you Nick for taking us along! Cheers.👍
Glad you enjoyed it and I've appreciated your comments along the way
Nick
You are always in my head when I watch videos on expensive adventure bikes. My 32 year old son has travelled on his cb500x all over Europe covering about 50000 miles. What impresses me even more is your age. To listen to all these late middle age men justify their need for huge expensive machines makes me laugh. Inspired by my so and at the age of 64 I bought a cb500x and have loved it. Riding all thru the uk winter with no heated grips or hand guards or heated clothing. I have cycled all my life and to me this bike feels like luxury. Only down side is lack of leg room for my 6’2” frame. I love the simplicity and the fuel economy and the brilliant city handling and small country lane riding.
Hi Adrian, many thanks for sharing. Yep, the CB500x is a great all rounder as long as you're sticking to speed limits, and as you say, nimble enough in the lanes.
Nice to hear your son's experience too, 50k miles.. quite a few!!!!!
Also, glad you can fit at 6'2, raising the saddle isn't the same.option on a motorcycle as you have on the pedal variety!
Nick
Great ending to a great adventure Nick. I don’t know what I’ll do on Saturday mornings now that the series has ended 😅. Thanks for taking us along on the journey. Hope you have a nice riding season this summer. Looking forward to seeing your next adventure. Cheers for now. Regards, Jim
Hi @JimCWoodard, I've really appreciated you tagging along and your observations and comments. Take care
Nick
Thanks so much for your efforts in not only documenting your journey, but entertaining us along the way! I've spent the Canadian winter outfitting my 2022 CB500X to motocamp, and with the snow gone (for now) it's almost time to take off! Thanks again, you've been an inspiration.
Many thanks for your comments along the way. I'm glad to hear the snow has gone and I hope you have a great trip!!!
Nick
Thanks Nick. I've been with you for both your big rides and you have totally inspired me!
Thanks Martin, I'm glad you survived the trip with me! 😀
Nick
watched everyone. took me on a lovely trip. watched all of your last trip as well. thanks for taking me along..
Thanks for your comment and for tagging along
Nick
Hi Nick, thanks for sharing that lovely trip with us. A great adventure. I am the Irish guy that met you in Germany about 2 years ago ,the morning you melted your lomo panniers. I was on my own 7 week roundabout rural trip to Greece and back. Regards
Hey Denis, sorry for calling you the "Irish guy" 😨, but glad you recognised who I meant 😊 I believe you escaped a nasty storm the day before, I'd take the hole on the pannier any day!
Thanks for watching
Nick
Many thanks for the videos and for sharing your knowladge with us.
You are welcome, many thanks for the comment
Nick
Thanks, I’ve just finished this series. I toured Norway in 2018 going up to Lofoten islands & back 5250 miles in three weeks. That’s all the time I could get off work, but loved it.
Beautiful isn't it?! I'm lucky to have the time now to just bimble along, but we both probably have great memories of our trips all the same
Nick
thank you for taking the trouble to film and to edit this trip, There has been something about it that I can't put my finger on that has been really engaging and enjoyable
Many thanks for your kind words, they are much appreciated
Nick
Nick, what am going to do with my Saturday mornings…it’s been a ritual watching you on this adventure. Great series and thanks for taking the time and effort to allow us to ride along with you. Ride safe..stay well.
Many thanks! I've re-lived the trip every Saturday too, thanks for tagging along
Nick
Excellent trip watched the whole series, thanks for sharing your adventure
Many thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it
Nick
Thanks Nick for taking us on ur 7 weeks of travels, brilliant watch, ur amazing 😊
Glad you enjoyed it, many thanks
Nick
Welcome home Nick, Thoroughly enjoyed all your videos, your presentation is excellent, easy going and soft spoken, unlike some who's commentary can be annoying, your content was first class as was the photography, I ride a 2002 Goldwing 1800, and to be honest, i don't think i could have managed half of where you went. enjoy your time back home with your wife, and I look forward to your next adventure, stay safe.
Many thanks for your kind words and encouragement!
Nick
Great series Nick ... Where next ?
Many thanks... and I'm not sure 😉
Nick
Many thanks for sharing this trip of a lifetime Nick.
Looking forward to seeing you on the The Wild Atlantic Way sometime!
Fingers crossed on me getting there! Many thanks
Nick
Thanks Nick, I enjoyed your trip, showing what life is like up the Far North. Ride Safe, thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it James
All the best
Nick
I’ve enjoyed this series. Do more!
Many thanks. Still planning what is next 😊
Nick
Really enjoyed final return home video. Helped me envision what I might do someday. Thanks so much George
Many thanks George, hope you enjoy the trip when the time is right
Nick
Hey Nick, well done. Thanks for the marvellos vids of your trip.
Thanks for the kind words and glad you enjoyed them
Nick
I've really enjoyed coming along with you on this trip. A lovely collection of videos that I know I'll watch again at some point. Thank you for sharing an epic adventure and presenting it so professionally. I'm looking forward to your next adventure.
Glad you arrived back safely. All the best 🙂
Many thanks Gary, I really appreciate your comments
Nick
On these final videos of your trips a breakdown showing camping costs, and total costs would be really helpful for those of us planning to do the same so we have a rough idea of budget. Spending many an hour watching each of you videos and really appreciate the effort you have made. Am picking up my brand new cb500x hopefully next week after passing mod 2(hopefully)
Still working out the best way to achieve this. I should have something shortly even if it's just a further reply to this comment.
Nick
This has been a brilliant series Nick thank you very much for all the work. Will be awesome for you to look back on in years to come too I imagine. Loved it.
Many thanks for your thoughts, and yes, hopefully more accessible than the old cine films I have up in the loft!
Nick
Thanks for all your work in putting this together. Some lovely locations and amusing encounters (esp the military convoy!) you’re also a refreshing change from social media “personalities”! You let the scenery speak for itself. I’ve never had enough time off to do a proper tour but you’ve inspired me to get Norway in next year. No camping as I’m too soft but lots of very useful information throughout the 39 episodes.
I look forward to your next series. Ride safe!
Many thanks for the comment and your observations, it really is appreciated!
Nick
Thanks Nick! I’ll miss your videos which I watch on Saturdays. Best to you and hope to see you on future trips!
Many thanks Peter, I appreciate the thought
Nick
Thanks Nick. I have really enjoyed each and every episode. Great work! I’ll be looking forward to the next one. Cheers.
Great to hear. Many thanks
Nick
This has been wonderful to follow. Than you very much.
Thankyou for following along!
Nick
Love the series just like I loved your previous adventures! Thanks so much for these videos. Every episode was really enjoyable to watch :)
Glad you enjoyed them and many thanks for watching them!
Nick
Brilliant 7 weeks Nick. I really looked forward to watching each post. Can’t wait till your next adventure. 🏍️👍
Thanks Jim, I appreciate the comment !
Nick
Just wonderful. Great unique series. Look forward to the next journey.
Hi John, many thanks
Nick
Watched from day one Nick. Really enjoyed them all. Certainly inspired me to do my 12 country, 9000 mile trip. 👏👏
Great to hear! Many thanks, enjoy your trip sounds epic!
Nick
A brilliant adventure and very well done, loved every episode. Thanks for the journey Nick.
Many thanks Sven!
Nick
Great viewing nick, I loved every minute. Thanks.
Thanks Mike, much appreciated
Nick
Oh my god! I can't believe it is over. I feel bereft. Thank you so much for the time and effort you have put into sharing this trip with us. I will genuinely miss my weekly episode. So, where to this year, huh!? Until then I will go back and watch the previous trip. See you out on the road. Stay safe.
Hi Jonathan, many thanks for joining me. No plans yet though
Nick
I’ve followed you all the way and on your last journey and enjoyed and learnt, really enjoyed as you just bumble along and as you say, you don’t have to please anyone but yourself.
My first venture out touring is fast approaching and can’t wait.
So thanks Nik and looking forward to any of upcoming journeys you might have
Many thanks for keeping me company virtually! Have a great trip when it arrives, if touring alone, just travel at a comfortable pace for the time available. If touring in a group, avoid the temptation to ride beyond your comfort level, just know where you need to meet up. I don't mean to patronise but...
Nick
Great trip Nick - love your videos and can’t wait for more
Many thanks for travelling along with me, not sure of.my plans yet. Ride safe
Nick
Great series Nick,really enjoyed it particularly the Norwegian scenery which was awesome.Ride safe.Richard (Bristol 500cbx 2017)
Hi @richardfews2113, been great having you along and yes, I think Norway was my favourite too, reminded me of Cheddar Gorge 😉
Nick
Really enjoyed this trip mate. Welcome home.
You have a very understanding family, I flew to Germany for some training for 3 days and my wife hated me being away. I am 54 and have a 30 year old son.
Anyway great following you in this excellent trip, great camera work.
Until next time and bye for now.
Many thanks, and yes I do, still building up credits for future trips 😀
Nick
been a great series ...looking forward to your next adventure
Thanks Lawrence, not sure what's next myself yet
Nick
Thanks for sharing, enjoyed every episode. Well done 👍
Glad you enjoyed them. Many thanks
Nick
Thanks Nick - not sure what i'm going to watch now this has ended!! Great work capturing another fantastic adventure. 2 weeks today and i'll be on my first trip - NC500 just to see what im capable of in my 50's and we'll take it form there :) Thanks for the inspiration, for taking it enjoyably slowly and for sharing. Have a good one and hope you find somethong else worth doing soon (once the credit card is paid off!)
Many thanks Miles, enjoy the NC500 and I hope the weather is favourable for you!
Nick
Hi Nick watched the lot brilliantly captured. It’s all about the journey for sure. Can’t wait for your next adventures.Have same bike as yourself take you any where it will.
Hi Paul, many thanks! Yep, great bike, simple, reliable, frugal and nimble enough for my needs
Nick
EPIC trip, my fav was Norway since I love mountains and waterfalls :)
Thanks for making these vids
rsm8
Hi @bigjoe4020, many thanks for your comments along the way, and I tend to agree ref favourite bits
Nick
Congratulations Nick! Happy to see you back home in good health and happiness. I followed all your videos and you did it in great manner. Now enjoy your deserved home commodity! p.s. make your helmet mic. lauder for better hearing...cheers mate
Many thanks!! And yes, I REALLY need to sort out the mic!
Nick
See you soon for the next I Hope, Nick !
Many thanks!
Nick
Loved following along. An amazing trip and I expect you’ve come away with some amazing memories. Atb Dave
Hi Dave, many thanks and yes lots of great memories!
Nick
Great series of videos. I enjoyed them, some good inspiration for my upcoming trip. I’ve managed to book just short of 3 months off work. Lot of similar things planned however I may head further south. One thing I have learnt is power adapter for Norway and no matter where you go coffee, pastries and juice & cola are readily available.
Wow, that sounds great. Have fun and don't forget the peg for those times you may need a printed ticket for boarding ferries 😊
Nick
Great series Nick, it’s given me itchy feet!
There is a powder for that 🙂
Many thanks
Nick
Enjoyed traveling with
Many thanks
Nick
👍👍👍👍
Many thanks!
Nick
Hi Nick. I have enjoyed your previous trips and this one just as much. The laid back easy approach to travel that you have is just great. Looking forward to the next one, where is it likely to be? That bike has been brilliant and just goes to show that you don't need a 1250cc.
Many thanks Mike for your comments and for joining me virtually on my trips. For me, the 500cc is ample and the low fuel consumption helps too.Not sure of my plans... yet
Nick
Epic trip and really nice videos!
Thank you!!!
Nick
Very interesting videos !!!
Glad you think so! Many thanks
Nick
Well the never ending story has ended... What on earth will I do on Saturday nights now?! 🤦♂️😳! More seriously though, thanks Nick. It's been a mammoth effort to film and edit the trip.
I'm sure you can find a use for 20 mins on a Saturday night! 😊 Many thanks for the comment, much appreciated!
Nick
Great series where are we going next.
Thanks for the comment and question... where next... nothing planned... yet
Nick
Really enjoyed all your videos Nick. You've inspired me to start planning an ambitious trip. What is your next adventure?
Hi David, many thanks... no plans yet though
Nick
Such a wonderful trip and enjoyed coming along on the weekly episodes. Your journey has given me plenty food for thought for my next trip so many thanks for that. What was the best memorable/part of the trip? There is now a big hole on Saturday morning when I am having my coffee!!!!
Many thanks for tagging along and all your comments. Too many favourites really, but I think Stavanger and Gerainger stick most in my mind.
Enjoy your trip!
Nick
@@bikingtravels So looking forward to the trip and hopefully will capture some cracking video. Also be good to see where you head off to in the summer for another fantastic adventure.
Those towns in Belgium could easily be UK apart from driving on the other side.
Possibly less pot holes in the Belgian towns 😀
Nick
Many thanx for the videos of your trip. I've enjoyed every episode and looked forward to each and everyone of them. Although you list all of your gear is there one item that you would definitely recommend to buy and one that you would not?
PS. The bike is a star as well.
Many thanks for the comments and question. I used everything I took with me at least once apart from some of the tools for very basic for simple fixes and maintenance) but figure better safe than sorry!
I love my tent for its internal space, but it is bulky when packed away, so it is a balancing act. If you're going to do a lot of camping, I highly recommend a 3 man tent, if it is just a week or so, then maybe a smaller tent would do to reduce bulk, but then we get back to "Does bulk matter?". Personally for me... I'd use the 3 man at all times.
My self inflating sleeping mat was comfortable (still needed to top it up), but due to it being self inflating it packed down to a massive size. I'd go for the same rating mat but one you inflate, most easily with one of those small usb recharge pumps.
Tough questions!!!!!
Nick
@@bikingtravels Great reply thanx Nick. When you were riding thru your home town I thought I know that place! I see it on TMF's channel quite often. Have you ever crossed paths with the man?
@@simonchilli2088 We live in the same area but never crossed paths
Nick
A very enjoyable series, Nick. It seems extraordinary that it has been nearly a year since you started it. What thoughts have you had as to the next big solo journey, when time and domestic goodwill permits?
Many thanks, and I'm still working on those credits with the wife 😉, so no plans yet
Nick
Nice rrrrrrrrrride.
👍 Thanks,
Nick
I Nick, and now the next trip?
Hmmmmm, I am not sure
Nick
How did the bike behave? a 500 i wanna buy a 500 too NX so do you recomand that one? i am 64 years so i want some simple and light!
i am from Norway!
Thanks for the question, the bike behaved very well and was suited to the roads I chose to ride. I did not ride many gravel roads and I know there are many in Norway so I cannot really comment on how well the suspension coped. It did well on those that I did ride along.
The CB500x was ideal for my trip, I have not ridden the NX but assume it is much the same as the CB with different styling and dashboard. I'm sure it will be a great bike too.
If you've watched my videos you will know I ride quite leisurely, if that would suit you then I can recommend the CB / NX as a good choice.
Good luck with your final decision and enjoy those beautiful roads in Norway.
Nick
i enjoyed Norway only because been up to NORDKAPP myself but other countries in comparison were a bit flat and boring and for goodness sake please SPEAK UP stop mumbling
Next time!!!! 😀
Nick