Year of the New Biker

 

I'm not sure what this is the Chinese year of, but certainly for me at least, its the year of the New Biker!

Shortly after the Highest pub trip with new rider, and hip biker chick Sarah, another three of my friends passed their tests!  Maybe its something in the water, maybe its a midlife crisis, maybe they've realised biking is the ultimate expression freedom.  Whatever the case, i'm just pleased they've joined me on the journey.    

Here's a quick salute to each and the rides we have embarked upon.  

First up, and potentially the winner of coolest bike (and name), is 'Phil me Titties'.  Phil, below, on his 1200cc Indian, complete with wheelie suitcase bolted to the mudguard and pipes so loud they set car alarms off! 

We travelled with Big Will, on his Harley Fatbob, for two days through Lincoln and North Yorkshire to Scarborough and Flamborough head.   Great times my friend - welcome to the brotherhood!

Next up is ASBO Dave.  Middle aged and mild mannered Dave thought 'sod it', and purchased a CRF250L fitted with big bore kit and illegal pipe for scaring old ladies.   You can hear him coming for miles, but at least he wont run into any wild life as it all ran away on his approach.

We travelled with ASBO, Sarah and Big Bro Carl on a 100m loop through the Yorkshire Moors for our group ride.  Great times my friend - welcome to the brotherhood!

...and there he is, the little happy fellow eating a well deserved ice cream! (was there a wasp in the ice cream or has he forgotten how to smile?)

Last, but not least, of the New Biker fraternity is Big Brother Carl.   Carl featured in these pages some weeks ago on his first rodeo to Wales.  He finally stopped shaking enough to go and pass his test and after riding ASBO Dave's CRF, he bought one too!   After his trial by fire in Wales little gets in his way.  

Here he is, pleased as punch, free of the 125 and cool as a cumber posing in his safari adventure suit.  Well done big bro- welcome to the brotherhood!

Honourable mentions go to Enduro Tony and my old travelling partner Jason.  We just completed a 100m loop of the Peak District.  Enduro Tony, true to previous form, was too fast to keep up with.  We were left behind to help the walkers out of the bushes they jumped into to avoid Enduro Tony's thunderous passing!

Jason, below, flattered by the helmet pressing his cheeks together like the cute little chip monk he is. 

Looks who's been practicing mechanics.... 

... and falling off!  

...falling off!  

I wonder what Sarah has planned??

Finally, a couple of shots from Whitby on a trip I just completed with my daughter on the Africa Twin. Love that girl.  

..shes the one at the end in white pulling an odd face in front of my niece...erm.. also pulling an odd face!