Archive for January, 2009

John and Lynne’s 25th Anni

A watering hole in the Chapeltown area of Sheffield on the evening of Saturday the 10th of January 2009 was the venue of Lynne and Johns family gathering to celebrate their 25th year of harmony, not a wedding anniversary because they are not…..or so we all thought! Lynnes daughter did a brilliant job of letting people know from far and wide, she had come all the way from the IOM with hubbi for a scan ( she is expecting a baby ) She sorted the invites gave directions etc at the same time as getting scanned, an immaculate conception if ever I saw one, well done that girl!  A healthy ten of the “Appy Wanderers” snook in early and hogged a dark corner and waited.  Lynne and John were suitably shocked at the large turn out of friends and family from far and wide and of course her biker family..us! We thought we had done them good and proper with the secret gathering  until they announced that they had got married that very morning!!! A great cheer went up, a few jaws dropped, some just didnt belive their ears. But I know this much ,all their friends and family will be smiling by now at the memory of the announcemet and you guys out there who know this couple will also be smiling as you read this wont you? A small gift was given to the happy couple by Barry on behalf of the Wanderers, it was a model of a purple trike on a plinth with brass name plate. However, this was a complete trike I’ll have you know and not the real Mcoy that has bits missing and is laced with gaffa tape The night was a nice if not noisy affair and went on late into the night. Not quite a bike riding story but close to our hearts all the same wouldnt you agree? Have a nice life you two. Just delete that Gilberston name from your membership now girl!! :)

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John and Lynne

Rocky.

European Touring 101

What you should carry on your Goldwing

  • First-aid kit
  • Tool and bulb kit
  • Warning triangle (one per group)
  • Reflective vest (for France and Spain)
    Note: this must be worn if on a hard-shoulder
    ie. breakdown, birdwatching or otherwise…

Essential Documents

  • Driving licence (international if held)
  • Motor insurance (showing European cover)
  • Vehicle registration document, MOT if required
    Note: all the above documents MUST not be photocopies. Always take a copy of your documents before you set off and leave these copies at home
  • The old E111 NHS Medical Card has been superceded the new EHIC card and can be obtained from your friendly Post Office or go online to… https://www.ehic.org.uk/Internet/home.do

Other useful items

  • European breakdown cover
  • Medical insurance and travel insurance
  • Maps or GPS
  • Phrase books
  • Credit/debit card PIN numbers
  • Euros in cash and travellers cheques

Prepare your bike

  • A service before you set off, ask for your brake pads to be checked
  • Check your tyres. You must have at least 2mm when leaving Germany
  • Ultra seal your tyres
  • Take your spare key (don’t carry it in the bike)
  • If your ‘wing is less than 2 years old, carry your service book (for any warranty problems)

Final details

  • Carry contact details of your next of kin
  • Let someone know if you or your passenger have any medical conditions
  • Let someone know if you have any special dietary requirements (so hotels can be informed)
  • Driving licence (international if held)
  • Motor insurance (showing European cover)
  • Vehicle registration document, MOT if required
    Note: all the above documents MUST not be photocopies. Always take a copy of your documents before you set off and leave these copies at home
  • E111 NHS Medical Card

Driving regulations and customs are often different on the continent so follow the advice in this helpful leaflet to help steer clear of trouble: Driving Abroad in Europe