Didn't take a test ride and then almost crashed

[DustCloud]

About a month ago I became proud new owner of a GS1200 without having taken a test ride; in fact I haven't ridden a motorbike for 27 years, and that was a Yamaha DT 125. Anyway, while I was waiting for the bike to be delivered, I had some sweaty nightmares about if I could even do a hill start on the thing, and surely it was far too big for somebody with my experience?

On the big day I anxiously pulled away from the garage and rode down a busy street and was amazed at how easy the bike was to handle. I was really getting into the groove when I indicated to turn right. As I tried to cancel the light with the bizarre BMW indicator arrangement by twisting my hand down, I pulled on the throttle and almost slammed into a car in front of me.

I've ridden over 2000km now and it just gets better and better. I live in the eastern part of Switzerland and the roads are twisty and hilly. Of course you've got to be very careful at the beginning but I haven't regretted it for a moment. Riding a GS1200 is truly a beautiful experience.

 

[Twotter]

What size boots are you and can I have them when/if you pile in?

 

[Pip_UK]

Experience is the harshest teacher - she gives the test first and the lesson afterwards.

Hope you've got those controls dialled now Dustcloud

And welcome to the site and the wonderful & unusual world of GS

 

[ChrisK]

Enjoy Dustcloud, your in the right place to get the most out of the GS. I have just returned from a week playing in the mountains around Grindelwald and Interlaken great fun and weather was good to.

 

[rsstler]

Welcome to the site and I hope you enjoy the new ride. If you haven't ridden for a while I would recommend some "refresher" bike training. It's quite common here, the police here even do a course called BikeSafe which I think is free. It's not just handling the bike but things like hazard perception too and will do wonders for your confident.

I'm sure there are other who will disagree, thats just my view...

 

[g.s.john]

What size boots are you and can I have them when/if you pile in?

Charming sod i get first dibs on his wallet

 

[Twotter]

Charming sod i get first dibs on his wallet

That's the spirit

I wonder if he's got an Aerostitch???