Welcome to the forum Andy Either of the BMWs you mention would be a good first-big-bike choice, though you'll probably find the F650GS Twin a little easier to get on with height-wise. V-Strom, Transalp and Versys are all great bikes too. Big singles like the KTM or Yams 660Z can be an acquired taste...

Aw… go on then, if I must

Could I have no.22 again please James.

Its a shame how it's gone – Blacks in Plymouth was the place I went to buy all my climbing gear 20yrs ago. It was staffed by enthusiastic experts who knew what kit worked in the local area 'cause they climbed there too. Popped into my local one before christmas looking for gifts for my brother and w...

I've had a lot of success with Multimat products – they seem to be a little cheaper than equivalent Thermarests but I've not had any issue with quality or durability over the past few years and they've been put to the test on multi-day treks, mountain biking trips, motorcycle touring and even with a...

There are websites that offer garmin-compatible free mapping – it might be worth a look to see if there's anything more up to date (i believe much of it is based on openstreetmap which is a open-source public-domain global mapping venture)

For me 2011 will be remembered for the ABR rally trip. Seeing both Dartmoor and Rannoch Moor within days of each other, and visiting parts of this fair isle that I've never set foot on has been a real highlight – bettered only by the overwhelming generosity and goodwill of the the many members of th...

I am compelled to unleash my steed and ride swift unto battle – for the gauntlet has been cast to the earth and be I Page or Knight in the making I am duty-bound to accept thy challenge fair Sir. Won't be doing it all in one trip this time though as I already have a long trip planned for 2012. Hats ...

May your stockings be filled with bike trinkets galore, may you rush down the stairs to the presents in store. But mind how you tread when you open the door, the tree will likely be all over the floor. For cats are not animals who easily bore, whilst you rest in your bed and fidget and snore. I hope...

I know what you mean about Glen Trool – the fact that it was one of the few places that it didn't rain might have helped, but the views from Bruce's Stone were simply stunning. It was the first time I'd been to Dumfries and Galloway. It certainly won't be the last.

Well done matey – welcome to the club.

Which destination / area was your favourite?