I am extremely late and very much new to the world of motorcycles. In fact I had never actually even sat on one until I was a grand old age of forty five years old!
Getting Into it
To get started I took my CBT Back in April 2024. I survived that and got my certificate with no problem. Then I bought a little Lexmoto LXS125 in the May of the same year. My first big outing came when I managed to take the LXR on a solo camping trip from the Wirral over to Anglesey. All A and B roads, no motorways of course.
My Lexmoto took me off camping with ease
Even Ridden Abroad!
Later after a month or so, in December 2024 I hired a Reiju Century 125. A sort of modern take on the ‘Cafe Racer’ theme. This was over in Fuerteventura. I went for a week for little holiday after I passed my theory test.
Cool Rieju 125 Century
Seeing everyone’s bikes on Facebook groups, such as Bikers-Cafe for example, is great. All the different makes and styles I am learning. Luckily I think my back is still good for a couple of years yet on my sporty LXR. My day will come for when I need a ‘sit-up’ type of bike
Pondering
I will and get some good ideas for my first 400cc big bike once I have secured my A licence. I am on the lookout for some tips and any will be gratefully received.
TT is a Target
One big biking ambition is get on the ferry over for the Isle of Man TT races in May. Seeing them on TV is impressive, but be there for real would be great.
Grabbing a Butty
Another new experience for me came when I found my first bike cafe in January this year ‘The Old Stores’ in Penyffordd, North Wales.
Interesting Artifacts at ‘The Old Stores’ in Penyffordd
The main thing I am learning is how mostly really welcoming bikers are. Everyone I meet is a pleasure to talk to. Bear in mind I don’t know anyone else with a bike in my life. Not once have I ever felt patronised. In fact I’ve always been given great advice and a friendly smile. Feels like a new life just started for me.
Words and Pictures: Gabriel Scott
Editor: Tony Donnelly