Spokey Dokey

Thanks for the advice. Got me some crash bars, a rain cover and a heathy new wariness of Birmingham.

I’ve just passed the Mod 2 and getting a Suzuki 650 Vstrom XT from Santa. Planning to use the bike for a bit of everything - commuting, touring and minor off roading. Ive got excited and already got cheap ish panniers and top box from eBay but going to get other accessories in dribs and drabs. I’d like heated grips, security locks and a rain cover, but not sure if I should get crash bars/ bobbins etc. Any suggestions of basic newbie essentials and where to get it fairly cheap?

As per the Soundgarden fan”s comment, there’s tests available, but it’s the riding school places that are like gold dust - Seems that way in the South West at least. Portsmouth may be a bit far for me but Worth a think. Ta.

I’ve just passed my mod 1. Does anyone know of any realistic way of getting a day or two”s training and doing the mod 2 in the next two or three weeks? I’ve got it booked for January, but for a few reasons it’s a massive nuisance if I don’t get it sorted a fair bit sooner. In South Wales but prepared to travel to get it sorted. All riding schools I’ve spoken to - quite a few - are booked up.