Hi,

I took my CBT in January this year after my "Get on Free" attempt. I then did my CBT plus in April this year. I was to attempt to carry out my direct access at some point this year, well after a number of family events, I never got round to do it. I decided to buy a 125cc bike so I could gain some experience on. What I didn't want was a pimple of a bike screaming down the road wherever I went. I looked at a number of touring type bikes ranging from Yamaha, Susuki etc, this in mind and being slightly older than most, I didn't fancy a 'sports type' with my son giving me the street cred advice we plumbed for a Honda Varadero. What a brilliant bike. The range through the gears is a little revvy, but the top end is very good. The bike is very comfortable particulary when your reasonably tall. Both my sons who have Honda 600 RR's and I go out together regularly, although they are both very experienced and with no fear, I still manage to keep up. It's given me a new lease, and I manage to ride out at least every other day.

Cheers all, keep safe

HarveyT