Well hello there!

[Nicko]

Hi,

 

my name is Nik, I live in Portsmouth and I am a 57 year old ex long distance Lorry driver of some 25 years or so.  I have been driving professionally for most of my working life, but have now had to stop due to arthritis.

I am a wannabe bike rider, mainly for practical reasons.  Parking in Portsmouth is a nightmare, even with resididential parking permits, and getting on and off a bike is easier for me that getting in and out of a car.

[Simon Davey]

Welcome to the forum Nik. 

There are a few on here that are clued up on the process of acquiring a bike licence these days. 

 

 

[Fiddlesticks]

Hi, welcome

[Bender]

Welcome  

[muldoon74]

4 hours ago, Nicko said:

Hi,

 

my name is Nik, I live in Portsmouth and I am a 57 year old ex long distance Lorry driver of some 25 years or so.  I have been driving professionally for most of my working life, but have now had to stop due to arthritis.

I am a wannabe bike rider, mainly for practical reasons.  Parking in Portsmouth is a nightmare, even with resididential parking permits, and getting on and off a bike is easier for me that getting in and out of a car.

Do CBT, hazard perception and theory (lasts 2 years)..

 

Buy a Honda CB125F, fit a top box and buy good chain, locks etc. Commute in and out to hearts content. 

 

Love my CB125F. Bought it new in September last year, although couldn't ride until October due to Storm Babet (I think).. Put 1800 miles on it since. 

 

I'm 49, just under 6ft, can totally flat foot it no problem. 

 

IMO, best starter bike you can get. 

[muldoon74]

Oh and welcome!  

[Gerontious]

Depends where your arthritis is most acute, but it could be that a step-thru and/or automatic might suit you best. Though this might not become obvious until you take that first step.

[Nick the wanderer]

Hi, welcome.

yeah I wondered about arthritis and a bike, but if you can do it, do it!

I too used to drive a bit, stayed in the truckstop there a few times whilst down that way, lovely place.