Jimmi_929RR

I can't really comment on the Mod1 / Mod2 because it was just one test when i did mine. The only thing i'll say is don't write off the instructor's advice / lessons as being as waste of time or not needed because you can pick up some useful info off them. You also pick up bad habits when you ride by yourself (e.g. no instructor) so it might take an extra day to practice doing it right (e.g. to test standard). I remember i was in a rush to do mine and i failed 1st time and was devastated - probably one of the worst feelings i've experienced. Good luck for when you do it though

[Assuming the battery is flat] - the bike might have been stored for a long period without using a battery tender. This type of battery doesn't like to be fully discharged and they won't hold a full charge again. EDIT: after reading your above post it sounds more intermittant, so i'm wondering if there's a loose connection? Check the battery terminals aren't corroded and are attached/secured properly.

I don't know for sure, but i think they are pretty much standard jeans (heavy weight mind) with the kevlar as a lining so theoretically yes (it's the kevlar that will protect you afterall). The only downside i can think of is that the stitching will probably be re-inforced and heavy duty and will you be able to copy that with a needle & thread? However, my sewing experience: I sewed a press-stud on a jacket pocket once so i'm probably talking rubbish Edit: ^ beaten to it!

I also watch it if it's on but i missed the MotoGP yesterday because i was out riding and forgot to switch the cable box on at the wall (had it set on record). Am i mortified? Sadly not really. I watch the highlights of the BSB/WSB too, but it's not the same as the live races and again i'm not that bothered if i miss it. My fave is the TT / NW200 etc which i do mind if i miss. Unfortunately, we don't get coverage of the other races so that's done for this year. I've never done a track day, so i find it difficult to relate to most of the short circuit stuff, whereas with the TT etc (although i obviously don't ride like they do) i feel i can because it's on public roads and i can admire them going 200mph on roads i'd be scared doing 40mph on.

Bad news mate. As you say, when you're nervous and been building yourself up for it, last thing you need is incompetance on the school's part.

Are you about 6ft wide or something?! I think the latest theory is the air brake one. I would say it's more of an MX cross-over thing though, either to get more weight on the front or set up for the corner or even just a habit thing. Never looks right on a sports bike though IMO.

I've never seen replacement straps. How would it attach to the helmet and more importantly, could you be sure it'd stay attached if you crashed? I know where you're coming from though; i had the seat belt type on another helmet and that kept coming loose too. I've got the ratchet type on my AGV and it's easy to use but i'm not sure how secure it is. Prefer the DD and bar types myself i think.

and also a decent cover you can stick over the top to hide it

Congrats on passing!

Great pics, that road in the 2nd one looks fantastic fun!

I always slow right down and move over as far as possible. But horses really annoy me if i'm being honest. They don't pay road tax, they're a danger to themselves and other road users, they drop sh*t all over the road (especially the lines i seem to take through turns) and their riders wear seductively tight trousers and carry whips (causing unnecessary distraction). As i say, regardless of my views, i always give them space and go slow etc (don't want to see anyone get hurt) but inside my helmet i'm cursing.

I've got an RST Fusion 1-piece which i paid £290 for (last year's 'model' so reduced) a couple of months ago. It's got the armour & back protector in etc. They aren't as practical as 2-piece admittedly but having had both types, i would say (strangely) the 1-piece seems to fit better. You can also take the top part off and have it folded down the back (like a mechanic's overalls if you will) for sitting about in.

having sampled Lidl's budget version of McCain's frozen oven chips, i have a funny feeling their helmets are going to be just as awful.

That looks a similar design to the one on my DRZ which also refused to lock (but it was sticking) although that was on the other side. Try spraying some WD-40 on the key/in the lock, wait a few mins for it to penetrate (chuckle, chuckle) and try again, just in case it's that. I'd be surprised if you had to turn the bars to the right to lock it though, most of them are to the left to lock.

It is a great idea, but, i wear reactive lenses in my glasses and they don't go dark enough for my liking (not like proper sunglasses) so i'm guessing a visor would be the same. They also go dark outside even if it's say overcast and not sunny, so you look like you're blind. They're also pretty expensive so i hate to think how much a visor would cost to do.

Bike @ 18 (rode from 17). Car @ 23.

my respect to you Sir! I can remember aching after doing the 10 mile trip to work on my 125 - how you coped with 37 times that i just don't know, i'd have given up at Bristol i reckon! Impressive

I've always had Sidi's and loved the older ones, but i bought a pair of the new vertibra's and i didn't like them. I feel they've gone a bit "intergalactic space warrior" with all the fancy lines and buttons but worse than that they seem to bend your leg forward which i don't like at all (so much so i've switched to Alpinestars now). The Rain Evos are excellent, best wet weather boot i've ever worn.

I've said this before - from my experience, as long as you are buying a known brand from a reputable company then you shouldn't have a problem. My last 3 helmets were bought online (demon tweeks x2 and the sports bike shop) and they came in a padded box with extra padding in the outer box. I've never ordered from gw, but it doesn't surprise me that someone that sends the wrong model also fails to use any protective packaging - must've been work experience day or something And also as i've said before, if it doesn't fit, you just return it for another size or different brand etc. Most places do free returns if you exchange too. Obviously it's more hassle like that, but the price reflects it.

Have you had a look on fleabay? Some people are funny about wearing 2nd hand clothing so you can pick up some used stuff pretty cheap off there, especially if you're not bothered about brand names etc. As others have said, buy a new helmet though.

They didn't have this speed trap thing when i did my test so i can't comment! But the school i went to used cg125s so i can't see why yours wouldn't hit the speed. Unless.......you're not about 50 stone or something are you?!

Well you're not going to notice that scuff when you're riding so sounds like you've indeed got a bargain there!

It's been a few years since i did mine but from memory, the examiner checked the bike over (number plate, tyres - must be road legal, tax) and mine asked me to ride with my lights on (which i do anyway). Obviously, you don't want it to be falling to pieces or running out of oil or petrol so make sure those are full before you take the test. Also check all lights work etc. Also, don't forget an MOT doesn't necessarily mean that the bike is roadworthy. Good luck with your test.

They look like the newer version of the Rain Evo. Yes they are excellent (although i've got the older 'model'), very comfortable and keep the rain out. I paid about £80 for mine 8 yrs ago; i think they are between £120 and £150 now.

^ I think the instructor can make or break it. I did mine about 11 years ago and i'd never ridden a bike before and never been on the road (never driven a car either). The car park bit is really easy, you'll pick it up in no time. The bit out on the road was scarier but again, my instructor was pretty good and patient which helped me through it (i was stupidly nervous). And dare i say it, being a girl, you'll probably get even more attention and help than i did so it's really nothing to worry about! My only tip is to make sure you have some cash with you for a drink / sarnie at lunch time. I forgot and spent the whole afternoon hungry and thirsty