Adventure Bike Rider - Forum

Subject: Motoal's and Gairloch - by: Redmurty

Sun, 19 May 2013 04:55:23 +0000

right I'm off, hopefully stopping off at Al's for a brew then onto Gairloch. 531 miles to do today. cheers Spud

Subject: Re: Bulgaria 2014 - by: dubber68

Sat, 18 May 2013 23:25:54 +0000

Yes' yes and yes again. Firm up some dates so I can get them booked now.

Subject: Re: Bulgaria 2014 - by: dave j

Sat, 18 May 2013 22:21:28 +0000

Sounds good!

Subject: Re: Bulgaria 2014 - by: Heff

Sat, 18 May 2013 22:17:35 +0000

This might be a ' Could Do' for me if the dates suit

Tent for me though if I go

Subject: Re: Mondo Mongolia? - by: utaka

Sat, 18 May 2013 22:06:20 +0000

This guy was on something like a Sertao or funduro from what I could make out, I see you can if you wish use bigger than 125cc for the Mongol rally.

Subject: Re: Bulgaria 2014 - by: Lone-Tiger

Sat, 18 May 2013 21:53:01 +0000

Sounds like a bit of a "real" adventure...even just riding there would be an adventure in itself! Don't know a lot about the country has anyone been before??

Cheers

Brendan

Subject: Bulgaria 2014 - by: markoh

Sat, 18 May 2013 21:43:47 +0000

I like it. Second half of August preferred.

Subject: Re: Bulgaria 2014 - by: Bonniebird

Sat, 18 May 2013 21:16:16 +0000

Sounds a great idea

Subject: Re: Bulgaria 2014 - by: James691

Sat, 18 May 2013 20:10:20 +0000

Sounds like a FANTASTIC idea!

I think it would be great fun just getting there!

Subject: Re: Mondo Mongolia? - by: James691

Sat, 18 May 2013 20:07:56 +0000

Not heard of that one!

There is the Mongol Rally - that has to be 125cc or under.

Mongol rally

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: Ali in Austria

Sat, 18 May 2013 19:38:59 +0000

GB wrote:

Ali, I will add your coordinates into my Montana and if we are anywhere close we'll pop in

Sent via tapatalk instead of doing something useful.

We've been up the Großglockner today. Lovely sunny day but blowing a hooley at the top and a tad on the chilly side.

Subject: Bulgaria 2014 - by: Bushman_uk

Sat, 18 May 2013 18:57:30 +0000

This was Martins (strimstrum) idea but i stole it and shall take the credit if its a winner
This is the idea sometime in August we arrange an ABR meeting in Bulgaria at the motto camp motosapiens.org . We have spoken to the owners of the camp and they are all for it. On site is camping facilities with showers and toilets and there are five rooms with two single beds in each.
each day we intend to be able to take you to some of the great sights and roads that Bulgaria has to offer and to return to the camp each night for a quick shower and a nice cold beer. We also intend for the off roaders to arrange some fairly easy off road tracks ( GS suitable)through the country side.
For those who find this a little daunting i am willing to lead a group from the UK into Bulgaria maybe a three day ride..
Anyhow thats the idea your thoughts ideas and suggestions please

Subject: Re: Moroccan bike registration-documentation - by: Tim Cullis

Sat, 18 May 2013 17:26:04 +0000

Ah well, I think part of the challenge is meant to be finding out how to do it.

I can just see the British Embassy dropping all it's got on to help you...

Subject: Re: a place to stay near lucerne - by: viince

Sat, 18 May 2013 16:14:01 +0000

cheers al thought about that but swmbo didn't like the idea

Subject: Re: a place to stay near lucerne - by: moto al

Sat, 18 May 2013 16:09:44 +0000

hi vince,.have tried the youth hostel. i stayed there years back and had no probs parked the bike at the youth hostel.cheers al

Subject: Re: a place to stay near lucerne - by: viince

Sat, 18 May 2013 15:59:31 +0000

650ginge wrote:

Sorry no help on the accommodation. Switzerland is worth every penny I will ask some friends that live in Stans and post back.

thanks for that

best I can find so far is an ibis @ £86.00
still looking

Subject: Mondo Mongolia? - by: utaka

Sat, 18 May 2013 14:17:32 +0000

I met a guy the other day en route to Dover who was loaded for a foreign trip, over a cup of coffee he was telling me that he was heading for Russia, the Stans and Mongolia, evidently 4 riders are converging from different parts of Europe and calling the trip 'Mondo Mongolia', anyone on the road know anything about this trip? I would have liked to find out a bit more but the guy was in a rush to catch a ferry.

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: MDsoco

Sat, 18 May 2013 14:12:58 +0000

Pyrennes.
look in bottom left and spot the VW camper. gives an idea of size.

Subject: Re: Moroccan bike registration-documentation - by: scruffy

Sat, 18 May 2013 13:32:26 +0000

Thanks Mark,

When I was in Marakech many of the mopeds riding around had no registration plates! I wondered if there registration was necessary?

The challenge is for three of us to fly out to Morocco purchase a moped and ride them home: first one back: least cost etc.

We plan to buy new! and should be able to get a green card to cover the insurance. I think I may have to contact the British embassy in Morocco to get a clear picture of what to do

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: James691

Sat, 18 May 2013 11:42:06 +0000

To stop this going off topic -

A ban - as I hope I have explained the reasons - is done on a temporary basis and not for life or removed from the website. I think that would be rather harsh!

Anyone can have a 'bad day' but if it carries on then most of the time the forum members will deal with it - when it is directed at a member of Staff and looks to lead to another topic being locked then I will do something about it so that the information can carry on. Also to let members and visitors know that a level of behaviour is expected on ABR beyond school yard squabbles. Perhaps the reason that ABR is so popular and has such a good time meeting up.

It is VERY rare that a ban happens on ABR and even more rare to have a life ban.

If anyone has a burning issue with the ban then please email me at the office as further posts will be deleted if they are asking about the ban. -

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Appreciate that posts on the thread will detract from the discussion and information that is of use to riders all over the world. This is the reason that posts not about the topic and asking about the ban will be deleted.

Subject: Re: 2013 North West 200 camping advice please - by: MikeC

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:12:54 +0000

www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/northern-ireland/22580394

It`s a bit wet!

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: James691

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:07:01 +0000

Britfrog.

I will answer your post later.

This is yet another time you seem unable to be civil - I don't appreciate the rude and sarcastic behaviour and I doubt others do either.

Perhaps you are under stress or vexed too easily at the moment. I have removed you from the forum until the 3rd June but you have access to the site still. It is my hope that you will be able to return to the forum as information and community sharing is important.

I asked where you got the information so it could be verified for the help of others and you have produced nothing but a sarcastic vent.

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: Gedge

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:02:26 +0000

AndyB wrote:

Anyway,as long as kids make motions to suggest I should pull a wheelie for them it's rude not to oblige and it's a victimless crime so doesn't count

all well and good except when they are riding alongside you on a shonky moped one wheel , one handed while inviting you to do the same...you just know you arent going to win that competition....

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: britfrog

Sat, 18 May 2013 09:33:33 +0000

so you are taking the heresay of the daily telegraph over someone that lives here and has been importing bike clothing and selling to bike shops for 6 years, with hundreds of bike manager connections.

You will go places.

I see that some of your other sources of info are politicians, I suppose unlike you all the uk politicians know what is going on in the UK? since when have politicians had any idea of what is going on around them other than their wallets

I advise you to stick to the important laws which you have printed correctly and leave the rest to us and common sense

No filtering ! you really should get out sometime and read foreign news

you should try the peripherique of Paris on a friday afternoon and see if any bikes dont filter, or any day for that matter

Subject: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: GB

Sat, 18 May 2013 08:44:10 +0000

Ali, I will add your coordinates into my Montana and if we are anywhere close we'll pop in

Sent via tapatalk instead of doing something useful.

Subject: Re: a place to stay near lucerne - by: 650ginge

Sat, 18 May 2013 08:34:27 +0000

Not compared to the uk it ain't. Broke after my long weekend there. Despite having tv chefs to beat the band the food is awful.

Sorry no help on the accommodation. Switzerland is worth every penny I will ask some friends that live in Stans and post back.

Subject: poland to veitnam - by: moto al

Sat, 18 May 2013 08:24:15 +0000

lother baltrusch and world traveler andreas hulsmann on a trip from poland to veitnam.

Subject: Re: Moroccan bike registration-documentation - by: MarkN

Sat, 18 May 2013 08:16:53 +0000

You'll need proof of ownership or official proof that you have the owners permission to take the bike out of the country of origin.

You will also need proof that it is roadworthy and meets EU levels. And you will need at least 3rd party insurance.

Subject: Re: 2013 North West 200 camping advice please - by: richardsracingmad

Sat, 18 May 2013 08:01:42 +0000

I'm not absolutely sure, but I don't think its on Sky ...but the BBC linky above works well. Of course, there are Highlight TV programmes to come as well...

Looks like it is a wet days racing....(according to the NW200 facebook site it is going ahead with a full days racing.) link here for you too ! www.northwest200.org/north-west-200-facebook.aspx

Racing due to start at 11am

Subject: Re: 2013 North West 200 camping advice please - by: Will

Sat, 18 May 2013 07:55:59 +0000

Is there sky channel you can watch on just looked on 953 bbc ni and nothing on there ????????

Subject: Re: 2013 North West 200 camping advice please - by: richardsracingmad

Sat, 18 May 2013 07:16:46 +0000

here's the link if you want to watch the NW 200.....it's (hopefully-weather permitting) broadcast live from 10am to 6 pm today

www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/northern-ireland/

Subject: Moroccan bike registration-documentation - by: scruffy

Fri, 17 May 2013 21:50:16 +0000

I want to ride a moped back to the uk from Marakech.
Does any one know what docs I need get into the EU from Morocco?
What about insurance?

Subject: Re: Scotland end of the month - by: Roadcaptain

Fri, 17 May 2013 20:22:45 +0000

so MOT on monday then heading up from Devon on the 28th, blast up the east coast then across the top and bimble down the west coast doing the tourist bits, wild camping anyone else around and up for some wild camping

Subject: Re: CROATIA - by: Harty

Fri, 17 May 2013 18:50:15 +0000

This a brief report I did last year

www.adventurebikerider.com/forum/25-ride...-in-the-balkans.html

devongtrf.activeboard.com/t49451264/ride...ell-are-the-balkans/

Send me a pm with you email addresses, if you want the file with all the details and route

Subject: Re: CROATIA - by: Kelvyn

Fri, 17 May 2013 18:16:22 +0000

Heading down to Mostar in June, would appreciate any info/routes you have on Croatia, will be 6 of us on big trailies

Subject: Re: CROATIA - by: diggermanbob

Fri, 17 May 2013 18:08:53 +0000

Riding BMW 1150gsa but any info would be great thanks

Subject: Re: CROATIA - by: Harty

Fri, 17 May 2013 16:59:06 +0000

Did Croatia 'off-road' last year. What bike you riding, as I have a good route depending on your bike, plus a list of decent campsites

Subject: Re: Germany - by: moto al

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:17:51 +0000

Black Forrest ,great area . would recomend staufen im breisgau .great small town plenty of zimmers.and some great wee pubs.cheers al

Subject: Re: Germany - by: kwakbiker

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:07:30 +0000

sliders guesthouse about 14km away from the nurburgring

Subject: well worth a visit - by: moto al

Fri, 17 May 2013 09:42:17 +0000

coupes moto legende 1st 2nd june 2013 a bril w/end

Subject: Re: Picos De Europe "Hotel Torrecerredo" - by: devonuk

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:31:58 +0000

gteps wrote:

I have to say that so far this has been one of the best trips I have undertaken, the scenery is stunning, the roads are fantastic and the hotel in which we have based ourselves for exploring the Picos De Europe has been top class

I've looked at taking a trip across from Plymouth in Sept. or Oct. this year and I was surprised how expensive it was. Over £400 for the Mrs and I plus bike!!!

Subject: CROATIA - by: diggermanbob

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:35:26 +0000

Hi Anyone on here riding from UK to Croatia in sept flexible on dates probably hotels and maybe camping for about 7days coastal and inland Bob

Subject: Re: Picos De Europe "Hotel Torrecerredo" - by: The Spanish Biker

Fri, 17 May 2013 05:38:28 +0000

sidestand wrote:

Cheers Simon,

Wes looking at the weather reports the other night - gives Font Romeu & Andorra with over 2ft of snowfall on Saturday !!

Hope it melts quick, as we're only in Cosgaya 1 night, then off to stop at Jaca for a night, then the N260 up under Andorra & on over the Cerdagne to stop the weekend at Tautavel on the French side.
Then off to Millau, Provence & Alps
Got to be home by 31st, as off to IOM on 1st June to catch the first weekend

You're telling me about the weather - its brass monkeys here, genuinely wintry weather

But they're saying it'll be warmer next week

I'm expecting HISS rally-goers to arrive over the weekend from all directions, but most crossing the Bonaigua from France. Call in to the camping at La Pobla for tea and sympathy, it's on your route!

PM sent!

Simon

Subject: Re: This looks like an advenure in the making - by: adventureriderharry

Thu, 16 May 2013 21:29:31 +0000

Something like that

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: moto al

Thu, 16 May 2013 21:01:00 +0000

les9509 wrote:

Don't take this the wrong way, but, if it happened here we would be YEARS getting it fixed and even then the council would try to jetpatch it! Seriously! Post-Tsunami in Japan, they had ALL the roads fixed properly within a month! Why we overtaxed Brits don't have a revolution,I do not know.
Hope that the suspicion that there may be a car under that lot is misplaced and that no one is hurt. Les

hiya ure spot on on the a82 we have temeorary trraffic light,s been there frigin 30 yrs. a no kiddin,cheers al

Subject: Re: Picos De Europe "Hotel Torrecerredo" - by: sidestand

Thu, 16 May 2013 20:39:08 +0000

Subject: Re: Picos De Europe "Hotel Torrecerredo" - by: davsato

Thu, 16 May 2013 20:37:33 +0000

"pots & pans" (potes-panes) is one of the best roads ive ever been on, its a shame it doesnt go on longer. the road up to Fuente De is good too. shouldve told you that a while ago, sorry mate

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: les9509

Thu, 16 May 2013 20:03:56 +0000

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: Ali in Austria

Thu, 16 May 2013 19:38:24 +0000

Up and down a bit at the moment. Some nights down to zero and others almost double figures but we are at 1200m. The wind has blown up a few times which is unusual here.

Subject: Re: Picos De Europe "Hotel Torrecerredo" - by: The Spanish Biker

Thu, 16 May 2013 19:23:13 +0000

sidestand wrote:

Looks like lots of snow in the mountains at the moment

Yup, lots and lots of snow falling over the weekend on top of the stuff that's still there - in the Pyrenees the most since records began!

And, tomorrow, Friday, serious warnings of severe local hail storms over almost all of the Peninsula!

What happened to spring then?

Meanwhile, you're making me jealous, I've no chance of getting up there this year - love the Picos!

Regs

Simon

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: James691

Thu, 16 May 2013 19:12:31 +0000

Just an update -

Still no word on the group riding from MAG - understandably it can take a while.

Filtering.

I've spoken to the FFMC and they had no information to hand to confirm or deny about the filter 3 laws at the time but have my contact details.

I've spoken to the Gendarmerie and the French Tourist Board - also another chat with the French Embassy. None of them had a definitive answer on filtering at the first stage on contact - this is normal from a PR point of view as no one wants to be quoted with the wrong information.

I've spoken to some of the Riders of Blue Knights France - all French Officers - and they are looking into what the actual legislation is.

IMPORTANT The information is not that important!!! It is just me looking for actual proof of where, what and how on a point to remove doubt.

Above and beyond the information -

Plain old fashioned sensible and courteous riding will see you touring the country of France and everywhere else with a smile on your face and adventure in your heart.

So if you are looking to put on a meet in France, Spain or Mongolia then please do - we will all look for information on the meet and that country and I am sure that everyone will do their utmost to encourage courteous and friendly travel.

It furthers our knowledge of the world, increases our understanding of people and promotes what I believe is the best way to travel the world we share.

Ride on.

Subject: Re: Picos De Europe "Hotel Torrecerredo" - by: gteps

Thu, 16 May 2013 19:00:16 +0000

Hi sidestand,
Jim and Pilar are still there, very nice people
The AS114 from Panes is a cracking road, great views and some lovely sweeping bends along the river

Hope you get some good weather, we were lucky and apart from day we arrived at Bilboa for the ride to the hotel and the run back this morning it stayed dry and fairly warm, when we left a small group of bikers had just arrived at Jim and Pilars and the weather had turned rather wet

As for the mountains there had been some fresh snow Wednesday !

Hope you have a great trip, wish I was staying on for a bit longer but work calls.

All the best

gteps

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: GB

Thu, 16 May 2013 18:58:03 +0000

Cheers Ali, what are the night time temperatures, we are camping south of Innsbruck.

Subject: Re: Picos De Europe "Hotel Torrecerredo" - by: sidestand

Thu, 16 May 2013 18:46:50 +0000

Stopped at the Hotel Torrecerrado before - very nice & friendly place
Are Jim & Pilar still running it ?

And Arenas de Cabrales is a nice place for a meal & some of that 'electric cider'

The road up to it by the river is an absolute cracker isn't it ?

Back over that way in 6 sleeps - but staying in Cosgaya this time, on the road from Potes to Fuente De

Looks like lots of snow in the mountains at the moment

Subject: Re: a place to stay near lucerne - by: sidestand

Thu, 16 May 2013 18:40:53 +0000

Everywhere in Switzerland is too expensive !

Subject: Re: Germany - by: bowser

Thu, 16 May 2013 18:31:46 +0000

I havent tried this one but its been recommended to me, www.german-rhineland.com, I am looking at trying it myself.

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: Ali in Austria

Thu, 16 May 2013 18:10:46 +0000

It's been very nice here this week with lots of blue skies and hot in the sun but some of Austria has been a bit on the wet side. Next week is currently a mixture of sunny days and then some days with showers but that will change one way or the other before then. That's mountains for you.

I've been watching the weather radar map the last few days and the heavy rain that has been moving across central Europe just goes around us. The sun shines on the righteous

A mate has ridden across from Bastogne to Heidelberg today on his way down to us and he says it poured down all day. He should be OK tomorrow though.

Subject: a place to stay near lucerne - by: viince

Thu, 16 May 2013 17:15:44 +0000

looking for a place to stay near or in Lucerne for our return in june
not too expensive
bed and breakfast
and biker friendly

Subject: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: GB

Thu, 16 May 2013 17:05:48 +0000

What's the weather like there now Ali? We leave a week Saturday for a whirlwind weeks riding.

Sent via tapatalk instead of doing something useful.

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: viince

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:57:48 +0000

Ali in Austria wrote:

Loop round via our place

don't drink all the beer before we get there

Subject: Re: Picos De Europe "Hotel Torrecerredo" - by: gteps

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:46:17 +0000

Well all good things have to come to an end and we are now on our way home from Bilboa to Portsmouth
Our trip to the Picos De Europe has been fantastic and we were lucky enough to have good weather for almost all of our time there
A big "Thank You" to all those that provided help and advice on locations and routes to ride, stunning roads like the CA1 to Treviso and I tried a little light off roading on the trail from Sortes to Espinama.
Now sitting on the ferry home planning the next trip away

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: Ali in Austria

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:43:49 +0000

You can find us here. Sat Nav Coordinates are on the right near the top

Pension Haus Maria

Subject: On road riding in France - by: ross dean

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:23:13 +0000

I am in France now and have been since 1st May - just keep to the speed limits and enjoy the ride. No need for reflective jackets, breathalyser thingys or big tool kits

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Subject: Re: andreas hulsman world rider - by: moto al

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:20:48 +0000

dancanovas wrote:

i love looking at hulsmann's pics. if I can bring myself to pay 7 quid for delivery (touratech again) i might buy the Kurs Ost book.

yip spot on re tt.. i think they take the urine.???? cheers al

Subject: Re: andreas hulsman world rider - by: dancanovas

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:02:40 +0000

i love looking at hulsmann's pics. if I can bring myself to pay 7 quid for delivery (touratech again) i might buy the Kurs Ost book.

Subject: andreas hulsman world rider - by: moto al

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:24:36 +0000

some of his bril pics

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: GB

Thu, 16 May 2013 13:58:29 +0000

Ali in Austria wrote:

Loop round via our place

Coordinates please

Sent via tapatalk instead of doing something useful.

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: Ali in Austria

Thu, 16 May 2013 13:49:25 +0000

Loop round via our place

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: GB

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:06:02 +0000

On the Daily Mail website it says its the Felbertauernstrasse by Matrei, put that into Google maps and it does come up the 108. We were down to on that road a week sunday or monday if the Grossglockner is open on a return loop back towards Innesbruck, need another plan me thinks.

Subject: Re: Round The World -TeapotOne - by: Lone-Tiger

Thu, 16 May 2013 10:31:54 +0000

Big respect to Bruce that he's attempting the trip again...I'm sure he'll have learnt a few things and got his head in the right place this time

Good luck to him

Subject: Re: Round The World -TeapotOne - by: stormfield

Thu, 16 May 2013 08:40:03 +0000

Met him briefly at the Ace last year. Nice chap. Was wondering how the trip was going, cheers for the reminder.

Subject: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: GB

Thu, 16 May 2013 08:17:49 +0000

Cheers Al, I will see how that effects the route.

Sent via tapatalk instead of doing something useful.

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: moto al

Thu, 16 May 2013 08:06:24 +0000

GB wrote:

I am that way next week if it is the 108, do you know for sure where it is?

hi bud .its the main road connecting much of austria,s tyrol province with the city of salzburg to the east .emergency crews fear a car maybe trapped under the rubble,it happend at 1.30 am .so there was little traffic on the road. cheers al

Subject: Re: Round The World -TeapotOne - by: corbine

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:51:57 +0000

Teapot Ones Video Links - i shall bump the thread as the journey unfolds
www.teapotone.com/site/vids/

Subject: Re: Round The World -TeapotOne - by: corbine

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:21:08 +0000

Episode 3 - Road to Hell- North Africa- Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania and...

Subject: Re: Round The World -TeapotOne - by: corbine

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:19:22 +0000

Episode 2 - Europe- First 3 weeks

Subject: Re: Round The World -TeapotOne - by: corbine

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:17:47 +0000

Episode One-From Dream To Reality - The Preparation and Planning...

Subject: Round The World -TeapotOne - by: corbine

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:16:25 +0000

Youtube Video links - Website etc - time to give Bruce his own thread me thinks and see how his trip unfolds - for those that have not seen the first 3 episodes he had to stop the first around the world attempt, had issues with ........ Border, as Mali was kicking off....
www.teapotone.com/site/

Subject: Re: This looks like an advenure in the making - by: corbine

Wed, 15 May 2013 20:42:50 +0000

you mean you were watching chelski?

Subject: Re: This looks like an advenure in the making - by: adventureriderharry

Wed, 15 May 2013 20:39:05 +0000

Thanks david and tonibe63 very sorry guys had a super long day at work today will try my best to do the ridereport tomoro

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: AndyB

Wed, 15 May 2013 20:13:42 +0000

I tend to 'take a view' on the traffic laws when I'm riding abroad and totally disregard the ones that I think are crap and fly as close as I can to the rest of them.

This means trying to sneak under the radar and not attract attention by speeding in built up areas or wherever there's heavy traffic but I won't be rushing out to put reflective material on my crash helmet, I'll filter (slowly) in stationary traffic and I certainly won't be notifying anyone about my plans when riding in a large group.

I put more miles on my bikes over the water than I do at home and if I pick up a fine for something then it's just an occupational hazard and I'm not going to cry about it

One thing I won't be doing is upsetting the locals by acting the goat in towns or off road because I might want to sit outside a bar later that day and I don't want anyone getting on my case because I messed them around a few hours earlier.

Anyway,as long as kids make motions to suggest I should pull a wheelie for them it's rude not to oblige and it's a victimless crime so doesn't count

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: GB

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:43:20 +0000

I am that way next week if it is the 108, do you know for sure where it is?

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: Bernard Smith

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:36:51 +0000

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: ZX Raziel

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:23:35 +0000

I hope noone was injured , it looks like few months worth of work

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: Throttled

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:16:41 +0000

I was thinking I bet you they get that repaired quicker than the Rest!

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: James691

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:03:26 +0000

Hi Britfrog

It would not be pulling me up at all, the information is from the sources outlined, if you have more up to date information and can let us know where that information can be verified then it would be of enormous help!

This is no offence to you and I hope none is taken! But living in France means very little to me on laws or advice. I'm sure you know you're stuff but I don't know you or your back ground. By that I mean my mate Steve lives in the UK and just that fact alone would not sway me on his traffic law knowledge of the UK while he stacks shelves in Asda without him giving me a way to verify the information.

So if Steve then tells me I can find it in Sec 84 of the Highway code or on the BMF site - if you see what I mean.

I checked with the FFMC (Federation Francaise des Motards en Colere) as of March 2013 they are still on the lobby to have this law about filtering removed. It could be up in error but as Europe is 1 hour ahead the office is closed now but I can check in the morning. If you can confirm this and where it came from I can update the post.

MAG and other agencies such as Euro Tunnel are also checking for updates from the Press Office for us.

I've looked about and an article in The Connexion dated Dec 2012 said it may be changed.

There, it seems, is not a law about filtering but rather breaking 3 other laws about overtaking and distance to a vehicle while you filter.

Filtering is not expressly banned under any law but riding between lines of vehicles means bikers are committing three offences: Not keeping a proper distance on the road, passing on the right and changing lanes for no reason. The first two are classed as fourth-degree offences and offenders face losing three points from their licence and a €135 fine for each, and changing lanes can mean a €35 fine.

Connexion Article

I had a look on Legifrance for the Code de la Route and could find nothing to confirm or deny - if it is not illegal then logic dictates that it would not be there to be found!

But the above article leads me to think that the actual offense may never have been there and warrants further investigation on what these conditions are.

While stacks of us ride around Europe polite and controlled some do like to know clean cut where they stand when out on the road.

You mention that it is permitted in slow traffic and the article mentions 20kmph and under certain other conditions.

The Telegraph had it as illegal as of July 2012.

The UKfrancebikers.com as of the March 2013 are still advertising their link to the FFMC

If you’re based in France and want to take part in the fight against the Government’s continued policy to ban motorcyclists from filtering through traffic, then contact the Fédération Française des Motards en Colère (FFMC – French Federation of Angry Bikers).

90,000 bikers took to the road in protest to french laws in an article dated March 2012 but I cannot find anywhere that states that they won.

If you can shed some light on this then please do.

As soon as the FFMC, MAG and others get back to me I will update what they have said and where the info can be obtained.

Thanks for pointing that one out - I love having a good puzzle to chase

Subject: Re: Motorcycle friendly accommodation - by: Paul_C

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:03:12 +0000

Toured for 30 years in the UK and from Slovenia over to Spain. Not encountered a bike unfriendly place yet. Just look out for a decent place and don't worry about it.

Subject: Re: Campsites near Caernarfon - by: Brenhden

Wed, 15 May 2013 18:51:47 +0000

MarkR wrote:

I don't camp locally very often but this is a nice one and I've had a fire there in the past: snowdoninn.co.uk/camping_site.html

This looks ace I was looking here

www.campinginllanberis.com/www.campingin...is.coms/info.php?p=8

But your one has a pub in it!

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: davsato

Wed, 15 May 2013 18:41:18 +0000

the french are pretty laid back, tbh so are we here i think but they are more as you see some right old shonkers on the road and nobody bats an eyelid. if you infuriate the law by being an utter knob they will throw the book at you and rightly so imo. but i dont think any self respecting pilote de motard will be rushing out to measure their non existent helmet stickers. its like "illegal" number plates here, how many do you see about? if they were constantly being stopped they would soon disappear. youre lucky to even see a cop in rural france, remember its a big place with not many folks in it.

my attitude is "never say never" but be prepared. i comply with all rules except the helmet stickers, im not doing that but i will have a bit of SOLAS in my luggage to show them and plead ignorance. if you say "merde, politicians merde" often enough they tend to agree.
but whats the risks? pretty tiny. in 8/9 trips over ive never had more than my passport checked.

Subject: Re: now thats .a landslide?????? - by: Oop North John

Wed, 15 May 2013 18:38:04 +0000

Makes the Rest & be Thankful slides look a little silly

Subject: Re: Campsites near Caernarfon - by: MarkR

Wed, 15 May 2013 17:40:52 +0000

Brenhden wrote:

Hi Everyone,

I am off on my first proper adventure this weekend to ride some mountain roads and collect photos of Bike with Castle and ABR scrabble...

I wanted to stay in my old favorite campsite near Betws-y-Coed but its closed for a wedding so I am now looking for a site near Caernarfon where I can have a fire and if possible has some inside space for drying stuff if my new lightweight tent lets me down.

Does anyone recommend anywhere?

Cheers
Bren

I don't camp locally very often but this is a nice one and I've had a fire there in the past: snowdoninn.co.uk/camping_site.html

Subject: Re: Interesting Global Weather Forecast Site - by: outrunner

Wed, 15 May 2013 17:37:11 +0000

I have used YR.NO for a while now and find it very good.

Andy.

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: britfrog

Wed, 15 May 2013 17:24:47 +0000

there is one mistake and that is filtering is permitted in slow traffic, they tried to make it law and the bikers stopped the traffic in Paris and caused a 300km traffic jam on the motorway so the government gave up on that one.
In fact now that I read more there are quite a lot of small errors but I wont pull you up on them as the article that you have produced is of more value to all here.

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: James691

Wed, 15 May 2013 17:02:20 +0000

Hi Special

I know and I have been across the pond more times than I can count - granted I struggled to count past 20 without extra toes or fingers - and never had a problem with anyone.

It is a wonderful world out there and many have been much further than I and not had a problem. This was just a 'what is the score?' thread for anyone that is overly concerned about going over the water if they want a print off.

I have found the people in France to be just as warm as the people in Indonesia. Of course that should not be a shock as people are just people no matter where we go and that is one of the great things about travel for me.

I love diversity but at the same time I love to celebrate unity. I will do everything that I can to encourage people to ride, here and abroad. If that means that people want some info on French or Spanish law and a lack of knowing puts them off then I am happy to go and find the people that know.

If you told someone they had to know the entire highway code before riding in the UK and if you did not then you will be pounced on then you could understand the fear mongering. Riding abroad you should take a little time to see what specific laws may be out there as fore warned is fore armed for the sake of a sticker or changing a satnav setting BUT that should never put you off going and of course you should bring back lots of pictures to post on ABR

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: MR X

Wed, 15 May 2013 16:52:09 +0000

I think you will find that this applies

R 431-1 Annexe 22 05 is the code de la route law which is 'en vigeur' in France, and concerns all helmets sold and used by Motorcyclists on French territory. It confirms that all helmets must be homologated, and in France that means that reflective stickers must be included. Code de la route regulations and laws concern everyone who uses France's roads without exception, so that means R431-1 22 05 applies to everyone which includes any foreign visiting Motorcyclist.

But unlike the UK the gendarmes don't enforce many of the rules .

Subject: Re: On road riding in France - by: special one

Wed, 15 May 2013 16:41:36 +0000

James, we all apreciate your efforts but imo a lot of this legislation is designed to put fear in to our heads, not by you i must add.

Ive been to France 3 times now, ive filtered past a police car because at the time i didnt know it was illegal, ive virtually broke every rule above and been fine and i could name you ten plus people who've been more times than me without incident.

Ive been ragging it along a set of twistys then a police car has appeared between me and my mate following, he followed me for about 5 miles then blasted past me lol

Just go to france, do the important stuff then just enjoy the ride.

Btw, what happens with reflective stickers if you have a white lid?

Subject: On road riding in France - by: James691

Wed, 15 May 2013 16:05:45 +0000

On Road Riding in France.

I had a look into this and I’ve never been a ‘yes’ man, I’ve always been a ‘why and where?’ man when it come to legal stuff.

“I’ve stopped you because you’re not allowed to do what you just did.”

“Can you tell me why please?”

“Because it is against the law Sir and it is dangerous / discourteous etc”

“I see, where is the legislation on that please?”

“Under Section X of the XXX XXXX Act Sir.”

“I see, I do apologise I was unaware of this, is there a penalty?”

To carry on from another topic and save any confusion I have collected some information on the legal requirements for road riding in France. This is the most up to date information I could find but you should always check around for information and anything you are unsure on then please ask and we can all try and find the answer.

Two new French laws introduced during 2012 have subsequently been either abolished or postponed indefinitely.

Breathalysers

1 March 2012 - the French government confirmed that from 1 July 2012 drivers of all motor vehicles and motorcycles (excluding mopeds) must carry a breathalyser. The regulation will be enforced from 1 November 2012 and anyone stopped after that date who fails to produce a breathalyser when requested will receive an on the spot fine of €11.

October 2012 - the French government announced that the implementation of the sanction for drivers not carrying a breathalyser – a fine of €11 – has been postponed from 1 November 2012 to 1 March 2013.

January 2013 - the French government announced that the implementation of the sanction for drivers not carrying a breathalyser – a fine of €11 – has been postponed indefinitely.

So theoretically you are still required to carry a self-test breathalyser when driving in France but there is no current legislation demanding a fine for non-compliance.
The original official announcement stated that one unused, certified breathalyser must be produced showing the French certification mark NF. Carrying two single-use breathalysers will ensure that if one is used or damaged, you will still have a spare to produce. The breathalyser produced has to be in date - single-use breathalysers normally have a validity of twelve months.

Reflective clothing for motorcyclists

January 2012 - the French government announced that from 1 January 2013 all drivers and passengers of a motorcycle over 125cc or a motor tricycle over 15 KW/h must wear reflective clothing when riding their vehicles and in the event of an emergency stop/breakdown.

January 2013 - the French government announced that the law that made reflective equipment compulsory for motorcycle riders and passengers in France from 1 January has been abolished.

The requirement was to have been that clothing must have a minimum reflective surface of 150cm2 (approx 23in2) in total, either in one piece or in several pieces, and must be worn between the neck and waist.

Satnav and speed camera alerts

Since 3 January 2012 French laws have prohibited drivers from carrying any device capable of detecting speed cameras. This includes products or devices able to warn or inform of the location of speed cameras e.g. satnav or gps systems capable of showing speed camera sites as Points of Interest.

The law is primarily aimed at speed camera detectors and sat-navs. It is unlikely that the French police will turn their attention to atlases but there is no guarantee this would be the case.

As well as the ban on warning devices, the French government is installing around 400 new, unsigned, fixed speed cameras as well as taking down signs indicating the location of existing camera sites.

If you have a satnav capable of displaying French camera locations in France then you must at least disable camera alerts. Contact the manufacturer for advice too as a software or database update is likely to be available that will remove camera data for France from the device.

If you have a satnav system built into your bike then contact the vehicle manufacturer in the first instance.

Information from the Automobile Association.

Now more verified information on riding in France on the roads.

Driving licence: Minimum age at which a UK licence holder may drive a temporarily imported car 18, motorcycle (up to 80cc) 16, motorcycle (over 80cc) 18.

Motor Insurance: Third-party compulsory

Filtering: filtering through slow-moving or stationary traffic is illegal in France.

Fuel: Unleaded petrol (95 & 98 octane), diesel (Gazole) and LPG available. No leaded petrol (lead replacement petrol 'Super carburant' available or lead substitute additive). Petrol in a can is permitted but forbidden by ferry operators.

SP95-E10 (Sans Plomb 95 Octane, Ethanol 10% = Lead Free 95 Octane containing 10% of Ethanol) is now being sold throughout France. This fuel is not suitable for use in all cars and you should check compatibility with your vehicle manufacturer before using it. If in doubt use the standard SP95 or SP98 Octane unleaded fuel which continues to be available alongside the new fuel.

Credit cards accepted at most filling stations; check with your card issuer for usage in France & Monaco before travel. There are many automatic petrol pumps operated by credit/debit card however, cards issued in the UK are not always accepted by these pumps.

Speed limits: Speed limits are fixed according to the place, the vehicle and the weather. Standard legal limits which may be varied by signs, for private vehicles without trailers. In built-up areas 31 mph (50 km/h), outside built-up areas 55 mph (90 km/h), but 68 mph (110 km/h) on urban motorways and dual carriageways separated by a central reservation and 80 mph (130 km/h) on motorways.

Lower speed limits of 49 mph (80 km/h) outside built-up areas, 62 mph (100 km/h) on dual carriageways and 68 mph (110 km/h) on motorways apply in wet weather and to visiting motorists who have held a driving licence for less than three years. Additionally, speed limits are reduced on stretches of motorways in built up areas. Minimum speed limit on motorways 49mph (80km/h).

Note: Holders of EU driving licenses exceeding the speed limit by more than 40 km/h will have their licenses confiscated on the spot by the police.

Headlights: Use of dipped headlights during the day compulsory. The wearing of crash helmets is compulsory for both driver and passenger of any two-wheel motorised vehicle.

Drinking and riding: If the level of alcohol in the bloodstream is 0.05 per cent or more (0.02% for bus/coach drivers), severe penalties include fine, imprisonment and / or confiscation of the driving licence and / or vehicle.

Saliva drug tests will be used to detect drivers under the influence of drugs – severe penalties as above.

Reflective material on helmets: UNECE Regulation 22 permits contracting parties (countries) to require helmets to be fitted with reflective material visible from the front, rear, left and right and lays down the specification with which the material and its location must comply. All helmets worn in France must meet the reflective material requirements of Regulation 22 - a sticker of minimum surface area 18 cm2 must be visible from the front, rear, left and right and within each sticker it must be possible to mark either a circle of 40 mm diameter or, a rectangle at least 12.5 cm2 in surface area and at least 20 mm in width. Helmets worn in the UK must comply either with BS6658 or with UNECE Regulation 22. Helmets approved to Regulation 22 may be supplied with suitable stickers for application by the owner.

Touring Tips

It is recommended that visitors equip their vehicle with a set of replacement bulbs. .
In built-up areas give way to traffic coming from the right “priorité a droite”.
At signed roundabouts bearing the words "Vous n'avez pas la priorité" or "Cédez le passage" traffic on the roundabout has priority; where no such sign exists traffic entering the roundabout has priority.

Overtaking stationary trams is prohibited when passengers are boarding / alighting. .
When overtaking a bicycle, drivers must leave a distance of at least 1 m in built-up areas and 1.50 m outside built-up areas between their vehicle and the bicycle. In built up areas the use of the horn is prohibited except in cases of immediate danger.

Apparatus with a screen which can distract a driver (such as television, video, DVD equipment for you Goldwing Riders!) should be positioned in places where the driver is unable to see them.

It is prohibited to touch or program any device unless parked in a safe place.
It is absolutely prohibited to carry, transport or use radar detectors. Failure to comply with this regulation involves a fine of up to 1500 Euros and the vehicle and/or device may be confiscated.

Riding in groups – I’ve not heard of the 12 or more and reflective clothing law or informing the Police of the start and end of the ride location nor the larger group having a flashing car. I have seen that this is required for protests and organised parades of motorcycles.

I’m not a fan of the word ‘supposed’ when it comes to law – it either is or is not a legal requirement that can be enforced that is of concern to me. If I am ‘supposed’ then it infers that I don’t really have to and so in most cases I won’t.

You’re not supposed to wear a helmet in the UK, you must wear a helmet in the UK.

I’ve been in touch with the AA, The French Embassy, The French Tourist Board, The French Police, Motorcycle Action Group UK (MAG) and French motorcycle tour operators – none of them had heard of this law either for touring groups.

MAG is now looking into the legislation of group riders and will email me when they have more verified information on the legislation of group riding during tours of France.
Here are a couple of links from Brittany Ferris that include downloadable and printable guides to touring in France and kitting your motorcycle in France, I hope they are of use.

Guide to Touring in France

Guide to preparing your bike for France

MAG is checking on the reflective stickers for the helmet section and will let me as soon as they can.

Sources -

The AA
The French Embassy London
FCO
The British Embassy Paris
Motorcycle Action Group UK
Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club France I
Brittany Ferries

Cheers

James

Subject: Re: Riding on and off road in France - by: James691

Wed, 15 May 2013 15:49:27 +0000

britfrog wrote:

they may well have the right, to close down a thread all that will happen is that it will be continued on other threads here and so that makes it a pointless exercise and all it does is upset people. you have put the cart before the horse, with no people on this site it wont exist

It will continue on another thread as was the instruction in the closing post from Em and the reason the thread was locked to stop the topic becoming 'lost'. Rather than a pointless exercise it is one of the reasons that information is easier to find on a forum.

A title of 'I went to Morocco' that then went off to talking about the riding laws of the Ukraine would be unknown to anyone looking at the forum titles, where as 'Riding on and off road in the Ukraine' allows members to find pertinent information quickly. Nothing upsets people more than a clumsy mess other than people just being rude of course but they don't tend to be on ABR for very long.

Perhaps that is one of the reasons that ABR is the busiest motorcycle magazine website in the UK with over 500,000 unique visitors every month. With no people here then it would serve no purpose at all. The community tends to get most upset when people are uncivil and impolite as I think most of us would.

Thanks for posting the information on French Trails.

Subject: Re: Riding on and off road in France - by: Tramp

Wed, 15 May 2013 15:45:40 +0000

here you go folks

www.codever.fr/

Bon chance avec au Moto

Subject: Re: Riding on and off road in France - by: Tramp

Wed, 15 May 2013 15:31:48 +0000

Well Phil..in the uk you would of coarse checked with the relevant person at the local council to see if any ttemp tro's have been put in place...

But as this thread is all about Bon France you could join and contacct the French equivilant of the Trf...who are just as friendly..Chasf is the man on that one...its all in French of coarse..lol

Its always upto the individual weather they use or ride a borrowed gpx flle...as ever use commonsence and respect and all will be well..if it looks dodgy it probably is...

In France all national parks are no go area's for trail bikes...it pays to learn a bit of the language so you can read and understand signs...

Then again its easy to follow someone and they cop for it with the gendarm...lol...if in dowt call ina t the local police station with a map and ask...they are really helpfull..