Only dented pride

T’was nice weather on Sunday, Fazerman had a ride planned for us so he led for a change and I was happy to follow. We explored roads west of London this time and headed out on the A30 to Basingstoke, then meandered towards Reading, before heading back to Newlands Corner for a quick cuppa prior to heading for our respective homes.

Along the way Fazerman led me on mystery tours off the main route, through places we didn’t know existed and probably couldn’t find again.

I managed to drop my bike during one of our many ‘u’ turns. Or should I say, ‘lowered’ it gently when I realised that I wasn’t able to hold her up. I got my leg out of the way and used it as a support to ease the speed of the ‘drop’ but just couldn’t get her vertical in time with full lock on. No point in going into details but my pride was the main part damaged, with a scratched rear indicator and front brake lever the only visible reminders.

I learnt that:
· I must always ‘straighten up’ before stopping, instead of only 99% of the time.
· ‘Lowering’ gently is the preferred option in these circumstances.
· Absolutely no fuel leaked out and she started again without a fuss.
· There is a way to avoid scratches or damage to the actual paintwork.
· I cannot lift the bike up on my own. (255kg/562lbs so hardly surprising really).
. Dented pride is all that comes to those that fall in slow motion.