Credit Crunch Biking Pt 2

The old CBR1000F has now done its first busy month-1100 miles without problem. (See photo after a week!) It revs to the red line and goes up and down sweetly through the box.

• Read credit crunch biking pt 1

The chain has been adjusted and that’s it (apart from a thorough weekly end to end check of course). My daily commute comprises bumpy back roads, challenging B roads, a bit of smooth swoopy dual carriageway and some ‘surfaced farm tracks’ so it’s a good test of any bike.

The suspension is compliant enough for the bumps yet firm enough to enjoy the twisty’s and there is more than enough grip for my needs. Brakes are surprisingly good, the front and rear being connected only by my brain which is nice after the Pan. Wind blast hits the top of my chest which gives some relief to the slightly over burdened wrists and there in almost no buffeting.

The seat is more comfy than the Pan, pegs of course a little higher but now second nature. It seems to be doing about 42 mpg and uses no oil. Its one weekend blast took me to The Ponderosa Cafe above Llangollen (great place) most enjoyably and it even got a little attention in the car park!

MCN this week says ‘Most car drivers would give their right arms for 170mph for £9,000’. How about as fast as you could ever need for £900… So, zero running costs-tick; commute with no drama-tick; enjoyable weekend blast-tick. The next challenge is a two up run, and my better half is VERY particular…..