Driving France
Discussion
One other special moment yesterday,,,,,
I pulled up at a roadside cafe,,,just for a tinkle,,,
There was 14 German guys all on KTM's, Bmw's
All really nice bikes,,,,
The cafe was closed so I went off into the bushes!!!
Came back and all of them are talking in German,, surrounding the bike,, even touching it,,,
Loving it they were,,,they all spoke excellent English, I asked one of them why the cafe was closed,
Because were in France and they don't like to work on Mondays,,,we both burst out in laughter at the wonderful French,,,
We all shook hands and I bid them fair well as they re embarked,,
It's the little things and the endless joy of being at one with complete strangers,,,,
The funny bit was I was sat having lunch at Castellane when they rolled into town,,
They went round the roundabout about 6 times trying to find their way,, I'd been there ages and they didn't quite get how!
f
king fast I said,, well in sign language as I pretended to have the throttle wide open,,,,more smiles and pats on the back.
I bought a ring at the Market off a very agreeable Greek,,,,, he too demanded I start the engine just so he could hear it again,,
I just smile and let them have their moment of what looks like pure pleasure at the sound of this bike.
I can't imagine how many friends I'd make if driving the Tvr,,,,
Oh I saw a chap and his wife in a Morgan,, V8 and he was clearly as wide eyed as me,,,we shared a wave and he blasted off into the distance,,,I removed my helmet and could hear the engine for ages, that was special for me.
I pulled up at a roadside cafe,,,just for a tinkle,,,
There was 14 German guys all on KTM's, Bmw's
All really nice bikes,,,,
The cafe was closed so I went off into the bushes!!!
Came back and all of them are talking in German,, surrounding the bike,, even touching it,,,
Loving it they were,,,they all spoke excellent English, I asked one of them why the cafe was closed,
Because were in France and they don't like to work on Mondays,,,we both burst out in laughter at the wonderful French,,,
We all shook hands and I bid them fair well as they re embarked,,
It's the little things and the endless joy of being at one with complete strangers,,,,
The funny bit was I was sat having lunch at Castellane when they rolled into town,,
They went round the roundabout about 6 times trying to find their way,, I'd been there ages and they didn't quite get how!
f
king fast I said,, well in sign language as I pretended to have the throttle wide open,,,,more smiles and pats on the back.I bought a ring at the Market off a very agreeable Greek,,,,, he too demanded I start the engine just so he could hear it again,,
I just smile and let them have their moment of what looks like pure pleasure at the sound of this bike.
I can't imagine how many friends I'd make if driving the Tvr,,,,
Oh I saw a chap and his wife in a Morgan,, V8 and he was clearly as wide eyed as me,,,we shared a wave and he blasted off into the distance,,,I removed my helmet and could hear the engine for ages, that was special for me.
Never say never Alan, Peter.
6 weeks ago I didn't own a bike,, not even a licence,,,,3 weeks ago I didn't think I'd be doing this either!
Alan get a job you lazy
See the French don't count age as anything,,,,old and young alike they just ride anyway.
Some of the Germans yesterday were well into their 60's,,, kids all of them.
I didn't have to ride like a bat out of hell yesterday, it would have been just as enjoyable,,,
I really can't explain why I did that,, I admit I told my son before leaving,, if I have a terrible crash, don't ever feel sad,, it's just what I do and who I am and it's what makes me happy,,,,
He knows me like few others and I always tell him to be brave in life and follow his dreams,,,
He's very proud of my way as I am of his.
I have no intention of dying yet,, it's why my brain took over and I was like a passenger on that bike,,
The sense of peace with the world was behond anything I've felt for a long time.
I'm bored at the beach so I'm off back to the camping park to fettle,,,,,
I might even tell her (the bike ) I love you hahahahah.
Please laugh as I'm just having the crac of all crac's here.
As Peter says in 7 days I'll have to head back home,,, not looking forward to it much,,
Back to dick head Tossers and miserable people.
We've bloody ruined our country !
Anyway I don't want to feel the weight of English air yet so ill just keep the blood in my vains flowing like the crystal clear water around me,,,free as a bird.
Lastly,,,it's not about biking,, it's about the bike your on that matters the most,
Would you enjoy driving a people Carrier around here,,,, not flaming likely!
You all bought Tvr's,,,,, get my drift!
Emotion, passion,,,, real man love for our machinery
Even the women get it here,, smile at me etc,,,
You wouldn't get that at home very often.
It seems to take ages to load up on my phone so reading your replies takes hours just about.
If anyone's made a comment and I've missed it please bare with me.
Many happy miles to go, Al.
6 weeks ago I didn't own a bike,, not even a licence,,,,3 weeks ago I didn't think I'd be doing this either!
Alan get a job you lazy
See the French don't count age as anything,,,,old and young alike they just ride anyway.
Some of the Germans yesterday were well into their 60's,,, kids all of them.
I didn't have to ride like a bat out of hell yesterday, it would have been just as enjoyable,,,
I really can't explain why I did that,, I admit I told my son before leaving,, if I have a terrible crash, don't ever feel sad,, it's just what I do and who I am and it's what makes me happy,,,,
He knows me like few others and I always tell him to be brave in life and follow his dreams,,,
He's very proud of my way as I am of his.
I have no intention of dying yet,, it's why my brain took over and I was like a passenger on that bike,,
The sense of peace with the world was behond anything I've felt for a long time.
I'm bored at the beach so I'm off back to the camping park to fettle,,,,,
I might even tell her (the bike ) I love you hahahahah.
Please laugh as I'm just having the crac of all crac's here.
As Peter says in 7 days I'll have to head back home,,, not looking forward to it much,,
Back to dick head Tossers and miserable people.
We've bloody ruined our country !
Anyway I don't want to feel the weight of English air yet so ill just keep the blood in my vains flowing like the crystal clear water around me,,,free as a bird.
Lastly,,,it's not about biking,, it's about the bike your on that matters the most,
Would you enjoy driving a people Carrier around here,,,, not flaming likely!
You all bought Tvr's,,,,, get my drift!
Emotion, passion,,,, real man love for our machinery
Even the women get it here,, smile at me etc,,,
You wouldn't get that at home very often.
It seems to take ages to load up on my phone so reading your replies takes hours just about.
If anyone's made a comment and I've missed it please bare with me.
Many happy miles to go, Al.
The tyres,, that's ok isn't it???
I've got at least 8mm before I'm riding on the slick part of the tyre.
I watched two locals the other day on bikes with massive tyres,, that's what I call leaning around turns,,
To those who know,, would you say I'm getting to far over,,, I honestly don't feel like I am but I also know it's easy to slap the ground on a bike so what do you hard core riders think!
Actually I don't need to know,, my instincts are saying Enough's enough.
I've been in constant contact with Shaun from Circuit based Training who helped me pass my test, he's given me great riding advice and I feel comfortable about what I'm upto, you always do till it goes wrong I suppose,
Fired the little beast up and warmed the engine , still tight and like new, sweet as a nut and no Cam noises etc.
Well chuffed because if it was likely to break yesterday was the day for it to happen, your shutting off so much and for such a long time trying to stop I was wondering how the bores would take the lack of fuel but she's not bothered a Jot.
I'm a bit upset I've stretched the chain,,only because I constantly lock the back wheel up downshifting,,,it's got so much compression if I don't get the revs perfect as I release the clutch I hear a split second of rear tyre squeal,,,it's an exciting sound but I was well aware it would put the chain under pressure,,,
I'll do better from now on,,,, right who's got a 24mm spanner I can borrow,,,,I'll have a chat with the camps maintenance boys
The front tyre seems a bit more alarming !
I've got at least 8mm before I'm riding on the slick part of the tyre.
I watched two locals the other day on bikes with massive tyres,, that's what I call leaning around turns,,
To those who know,, would you say I'm getting to far over,,, I honestly don't feel like I am but I also know it's easy to slap the ground on a bike so what do you hard core riders think!
Actually I don't need to know,, my instincts are saying Enough's enough.
I've been in constant contact with Shaun from Circuit based Training who helped me pass my test, he's given me great riding advice and I feel comfortable about what I'm upto, you always do till it goes wrong I suppose,
Fired the little beast up and warmed the engine , still tight and like new, sweet as a nut and no Cam noises etc.
Well chuffed because if it was likely to break yesterday was the day for it to happen, your shutting off so much and for such a long time trying to stop I was wondering how the bores would take the lack of fuel but she's not bothered a Jot.
I'm a bit upset I've stretched the chain,,only because I constantly lock the back wheel up downshifting,,,it's got so much compression if I don't get the revs perfect as I release the clutch I hear a split second of rear tyre squeal,,,it's an exciting sound but I was well aware it would put the chain under pressure,,,
I'll do better from now on,,,, right who's got a 24mm spanner I can borrow,,,,I'll have a chat with the camps maintenance boys
The front tyre seems a bit more alarming !
Hi Paul (oldred V8S) I love the look of your car mate 
Yesterday was a mundane usual sort of holiday day,
Went to the beach and had crepes with banana and chocolate, squeezed orange juice whilst sitting on a stool at the bar on the beach, bought some clothes, walked around Port Grimaud looking for some presents for the family,,,
Hired a boat and pottered around the harbour looking at the really lovely boats and lovely little homes with people reading newspapers, sharing a beer together or drinking coffee,,,
Compared to The Gorge Du Verdun it was all rather dull,,,,
Sat and watched old boys playing boulle,,, can't spell English let alone French???
I've eaten something that didn't agree with me the other day so last night I went to the local mcDonalds,,,,, madness I know but hey!
Unbelievable,, im sitting outside drinking a coffee,,,a vehicle pulls up abruptly,,,this looks dodgy I thought,,,, the guy had stopped the traffic behind him,, he jumps out, runs around his car,,,my bikes right behind were he's stopped,,,,,, I panic and grab my helmet and start to rush over,,,, if he's thinking of nicking my bike he'll be unconscious in about a second,,,,,,
Got about 20 yards away and panic subsides,,,,
He's only taking about 10 pics of the bike, I stop in my tracks, he hasn't seen me so I now feeling rather embarrassed just go back, sit down and carry on drinking,,,two local lads laugh at me and him,,,,the traffic is now building up behind him,, horn goes off,, he walks back to his car,, sorry small van,, looks at the impatient drivers behind, uses a hand motion as if to say ps off,, jumps in and he's off,,,, I'm in the south of France there's thousands of lovely bikes,, more super cars than you could point a stick at,,,
What is it about this bike,,,,there all fooled into thinking it's Vintage (French accent) or something.
You can't make this stuff up,,,
I'd done nothing much all day so last night about 10pm I cruise over to St Trpoez,, park up,,,,out the way!
Had a nice walk around the tiny narrow streets window shopping and enjoying all the happy people chit chatting away as they enjoy their meals and wine,, sat on a rock drinking a coffee,,,the sea breeze cooling my skin,,,it's all very aggreable is the south of France.
It was spitting with rain as I returned,,,only a few miles but all my bravado had dis appeared,,,I'm back to being frightened to death of these shiny roads that look slick when it's dry let alone with fresh rain on them.
It was evident to me now as I tip toed around corners trying to keep the bike dead upright,,
I was riding like a jerk the day before,, the lean angles,, you just get so into it,,,
I'm not sure if I'll ever ride like that again, my bikes to nice for that lark!
Put the cover on the bike when I got back and sure enough it rained a little in the night, I see wet Tarmac around me,, fear sets in,, I'm worrying about coming home now! Everything changes with the dreaded rain,, you can tell even the locals faces drop,,, just like home!!!!
Now the bikes a liability,,,,here's where the Tvr comes back into play,,,, I'd come here in the car but you'd have to choose somewhere quiet to stay as you can't move on the coast road in a car around the built up areas?
I have no clue as to what to do today,,,might get pissed with the French guy staying next door to me,,,,Pascal, nice guy but a raging alki as far as I can make out but just like all the others he's in love with my motorbike and always tries to offer me a beer, maybe I should stop insulting him and join him. He's quite a character,, he drinks for breakfast,, lunch and dinner,,
In fact I could clearly smell alcohol on his breath the other morning as he's putting his diving equipment into his car,,,,
You just have to love the French,,,Sod proto call they do as they like as often as they like,,,wonderful people really,,,keep hold of their beloved traditions and I for one appreciate it so much.
I'm mindfull of coming here as a kid,,, so much they hang onto,,,their mopeds, their love of food I could go on all day.
Alun
Yesterday was a mundane usual sort of holiday day,
Went to the beach and had crepes with banana and chocolate, squeezed orange juice whilst sitting on a stool at the bar on the beach, bought some clothes, walked around Port Grimaud looking for some presents for the family,,,
Hired a boat and pottered around the harbour looking at the really lovely boats and lovely little homes with people reading newspapers, sharing a beer together or drinking coffee,,,
Compared to The Gorge Du Verdun it was all rather dull,,,,
Sat and watched old boys playing boulle,,, can't spell English let alone French???
I've eaten something that didn't agree with me the other day so last night I went to the local mcDonalds,,,,, madness I know but hey!
Unbelievable,, im sitting outside drinking a coffee,,,a vehicle pulls up abruptly,,,this looks dodgy I thought,,,, the guy had stopped the traffic behind him,, he jumps out, runs around his car,,,my bikes right behind were he's stopped,,,,,, I panic and grab my helmet and start to rush over,,,, if he's thinking of nicking my bike he'll be unconscious in about a second,,,,,,
Got about 20 yards away and panic subsides,,,,
He's only taking about 10 pics of the bike, I stop in my tracks, he hasn't seen me so I now feeling rather embarrassed just go back, sit down and carry on drinking,,,two local lads laugh at me and him,,,,the traffic is now building up behind him,, horn goes off,, he walks back to his car,, sorry small van,, looks at the impatient drivers behind, uses a hand motion as if to say p
s off,, jumps in and he's off,,,, I'm in the south of France there's thousands of lovely bikes,, more super cars than you could point a stick at,,,What is it about this bike,,,,there all fooled into thinking it's Vintage (French accent) or something.
You can't make this stuff up,,,
I'd done nothing much all day so last night about 10pm I cruise over to St Trpoez,, park up,,,,out the way!
Had a nice walk around the tiny narrow streets window shopping and enjoying all the happy people chit chatting away as they enjoy their meals and wine,, sat on a rock drinking a coffee,,,the sea breeze cooling my skin,,,it's all very aggreable is the south of France.
It was spitting with rain as I returned,,,only a few miles but all my bravado had dis appeared,,,I'm back to being frightened to death of these shiny roads that look slick when it's dry let alone with fresh rain on them.
It was evident to me now as I tip toed around corners trying to keep the bike dead upright,,
I was riding like a jerk the day before,, the lean angles,, you just get so into it,,,
I'm not sure if I'll ever ride like that again, my bikes to nice for that lark!
Put the cover on the bike when I got back and sure enough it rained a little in the night, I see wet Tarmac around me,, fear sets in,, I'm worrying about coming home now! Everything changes with the dreaded rain,, you can tell even the locals faces drop,,, just like home!!!!
Now the bikes a liability,,,,here's where the Tvr comes back into play,,,, I'd come here in the car but you'd have to choose somewhere quiet to stay as you can't move on the coast road in a car around the built up areas?
I have no clue as to what to do today,,,might get pissed with the French guy staying next door to me,,,,Pascal, nice guy but a raging alki as far as I can make out but just like all the others he's in love with my motorbike and always tries to offer me a beer, maybe I should stop insulting him and join him. He's quite a character,, he drinks for breakfast,, lunch and dinner,,
In fact I could clearly smell alcohol on his breath the other morning as he's putting his diving equipment into his car,,,,
You just have to love the French,,,Sod proto call they do as they like as often as they like,,,wonderful people really,,,keep hold of their beloved traditions and I for one appreciate it so much.
I'm mindfull of coming here as a kid,,, so much they hang onto,,,their mopeds, their love of food I could go on all day.
Alun
Fly me to the moon
And let me live amongst the stars
Let me see what life is like
On Jupiter and Mars
In other words please be true
In other words say you love me
Nat King Cole does a wonderful version of that song
I love it and that's how I've come to feel about my little English motorbike,
200M (Graham) mentioned the persuaders the other day,,,I can't quite remember the music to it but I understand where he was coming from.
Another one by the greatest Elvis
Like a river flows,gently to the sea
Darling so it goes, something's were meant to beeeeee
Take my hand, take my whole life too
For I can't help falling in love with you
For I can't help falling in love with you.
I've loved some wonderful women,,
Even a French girl for four years, this place just breaks you down until you can feel real emotion again, I like it
Were to stiff at home, we need to find out inner being more and let it flow,,,
I'm very emotional today,,,missing my family I think!
It could also be the dark clouds that remind me of home,,
The cleaning lady thinks I have a wonderful voice,,,(singing in the shower)
She's young and beautiful and I reckon she wants me,,,,
I'm not here for female company I have my hands full of romance for France and my bike.
Maybe I'm sad because I'm missing the Tvr,
Not sad just exasperated !
I'll come here with the car one day and drive the wheels off it,
Deep breaths as I'm really struggling to cope.
Ok over to the camps restaurant for strong coffee,, man up.
It won't take long, the people here are so upbeat,
I know most of you chaps are up and about getting ready to fight for another days work,
Just take a moment and dream of you,your girl maybe and your fantastic sportscar and one day do what I've been doing.
The memories will stay with you for life
Al
And let me live amongst the stars
Let me see what life is like
On Jupiter and Mars
In other words please be true
In other words say you love me
Nat King Cole does a wonderful version of that song
I love it and that's how I've come to feel about my little English motorbike,
200M (Graham) mentioned the persuaders the other day,,,I can't quite remember the music to it but I understand where he was coming from.
Another one by the greatest Elvis
Like a river flows,gently to the sea
Darling so it goes, something's were meant to beeeeee
Take my hand, take my whole life too
For I can't help falling in love with you
For I can't help falling in love with you.
I've loved some wonderful women,,
Even a French girl for four years, this place just breaks you down until you can feel real emotion again, I like it
Were to stiff at home, we need to find out inner being more and let it flow,,,
I'm very emotional today,,,missing my family I think!
It could also be the dark clouds that remind me of home,,
The cleaning lady thinks I have a wonderful voice,,,(singing in the shower)
She's young and beautiful and I reckon she wants me,,,,
I'm not here for female company I have my hands full of romance for France and my bike.
Maybe I'm sad because I'm missing the Tvr,
Not sad just exasperated !
I'll come here with the car one day and drive the wheels off it,
Deep breaths as I'm really struggling to cope.
Ok over to the camps restaurant for strong coffee,, man up.
It won't take long, the people here are so upbeat,
I know most of you chaps are up and about getting ready to fight for another days work,
Just take a moment and dream of you,your girl maybe and your fantastic sportscar and one day do what I've been doing.
The memories will stay with you for life
Al
Edited by ClassiChimi on Wednesday 16th September 21:23
Peter I think your a great dad and have a lovely family. I think you've worked hard to achieve this and I admire you tremendously mate.
Your kids will never leave home,, it's just to good
Be very proud of yourself, your wife and kids.
Keep supporting them cos we'll be crocked one day and you'll want them close.
I saw the pic of your boys bike,, jee I'd be worried for my boys on bikes like that but your a brave man and you've passed it on to your children
The best of health to you and all who care and work so hard.
So I go over and have breakfast with the guys and galls from the campsite,,,
So perspective,,,the big guy with a beard says I look sad, bloody eck,,
I shrug my shoulders and just say missing loved ones,,
The next thing I've got 3 blokes and a beautiful girl surrounding me and kissing me.
I feel better straight away, have a lovely conversation about French life and tradition,
See the guy with the tash and hat on, I asked for a spanner off him yesterday, came back and wanted to adjust my chain,,
So Iet him,,,,,I've made a friend for life so it seems
There's another lady about my age who I've fallen in love with but she hadn't arrived when I took the picture,, god she's got legs that go on until heaven itself
I'm writing all this because it helps me remember all these little moments of joy,
Writing on here has helped me to not be lonely,,,
I've been thinking about you Tvr boys,,, your all very special people and never forget it lads,,,
Tvr's are just cars,,,,meeting Peter Anthony Richard Daz, Alex Graham and many others
I'm often a bit of a loner but I couldn't have done what I've done to my car if you chaps didn't exist,
Anthony for instance,,,about a thousand leagues above me but treats me with respect and generosity,,,
What a bunch of great people I've met
May you all get what your after in life and I for one wish you all the best of luck.
Alun
Your kids will never leave home,, it's just to good
Be very proud of yourself, your wife and kids.
Keep supporting them cos we'll be crocked one day and you'll want them close.
I saw the pic of your boys bike,, jee I'd be worried for my boys on bikes like that but your a brave man and you've passed it on to your children
The best of health to you and all who care and work so hard.
So I go over and have breakfast with the guys and galls from the campsite,,,
So perspective,,,the big guy with a beard says I look sad, bloody eck,,
I shrug my shoulders and just say missing loved ones,,
The next thing I've got 3 blokes and a beautiful girl surrounding me and kissing me.
I feel better straight away, have a lovely conversation about French life and tradition,
See the guy with the tash and hat on, I asked for a spanner off him yesterday, came back and wanted to adjust my chain,,
So Iet him,,,,,I've made a friend for life so it seems
There's another lady about my age who I've fallen in love with but she hadn't arrived when I took the picture,, god she's got legs that go on until heaven itself
I'm writing all this because it helps me remember all these little moments of joy,
Writing on here has helped me to not be lonely,,,
I've been thinking about you Tvr boys,,, your all very special people and never forget it lads,,,
Tvr's are just cars,,,,meeting Peter Anthony Richard Daz, Alex Graham and many others
I'm often a bit of a loner but I couldn't have done what I've done to my car if you chaps didn't exist,
Anthony for instance,,,about a thousand leagues above me but treats me with respect and generosity,,,
What a bunch of great people I've met
May you all get what your after in life and I for one wish you all the best of luck.
Alun
Oldred_V8S said:
Thanks Alun, maybe one day I will get the chance to show it to you.
I have to Thankyou,, I'm sure if we met it would be like meeting up with a long lost brother,, You've made my holiday very special as it's your words that gave me the confidence to strike out.
I Thankyou from the bottom of my heart.
Right enough of all this emotional stuff,,, I've had three strong coffees a load of cuddles and I'm charged up again.
I so want to go for a ride but the cover is staying on the bike today.
I'll update when I have something worth saying
Al
All this within a few hundred yards of the campsite.
Two steering wheels,,,for when you wanna go one way and the missus wants to go another
The nudist beach,,,hahah it's not really
Dramatic sky and my little hotel/ chalet
Paradise
Theres a cockerel that wakes me everyday at about 5.30am,,,
I found it,,, it's only the old mans who has the aged Solex bike I mentioned
I like the darn thing,,,
See the tennis courts,,,I'm in the buildings just below them, 50 yards away.
You can hear the boats rigging at night in the breeze. It's called Paradise Marina,,bit rough and ready but nice all the same
It all looks rather dull in this light but it's all rather splendid.
Alun
Two steering wheels,,,for when you wanna go one way and the missus wants to go another
The nudist beach,,,hahah it's not really
Dramatic sky and my little hotel/ chalet
Paradise
Theres a cockerel that wakes me everyday at about 5.30am,,,
I found it,,, it's only the old mans who has the aged Solex bike I mentioned
I like the darn thing,,,
See the tennis courts,,,I'm in the buildings just below them, 50 yards away.
You can hear the boats rigging at night in the breeze. It's called Paradise Marina,,bit rough and ready but nice all the same
It all looks rather dull in this light but it's all rather splendid.
Alun
I Didn't even get out the campsite today without another meeting of minds,
Stephan and his lovely wife,,,German,
I keep seeing this little red 2CV parked, I even took a good look at it the other day,,
Tidy car I thought,
So today I'm taking the cover off the bike and contemplating a ride,,,it's cloudy but doesn't rain much during the day so thought,,,I'm British surely I can watch for the puddles, anyway
This chap comes upto me and starts saying what a nice bike,,
We then spend a good hour chatting away,, turns out it's his 2CV they've driven it down through Italy and are sort of on there way back home, stopped to see St Tropez etc,,
A 2CV all that way,, who's the nutter now!
He's rebuilt it from the ground up and was very proud of it,,,
He owned Alfa's for years but got fed up with fighting off the rust
There off tomorrow and asked me to join them this evening for a glass of wine, I gladly accepted,, trouble is he says he's been having fuel starvation problems,, might not make it back tonight he said in a very matter of fact way,, very German I thought
Here's a pic of him and his lovely wife, I can't remember her name doh!
We've exchanged details and I will call him if he doesn't show this evening just to check their safe.
So after that I thought I'd go for a local ride,, shorts on as it's still very warm and off I go towards La Croix Valmer,,
Found yet another beach and had a coffee.
As I'm walking out I see a bar with Conga drums on a small stage,,,I played drums for years, couldn't resist so walked in and asked the lady owner if I could make some noise,,
Yes she says,,, just her and a few chaps sitting at the bar,,,
I start tapping the things,, she likes it so puts some funkie disco music on,,,
That's it I'm off with the fairies ripping it up,,,
Asked if she could take my picture,,, so then I asked if she could do one on my phone.
Now you know what an ugly blighter I am
Bell Bullet helmet,,,that and my leathers,,,,I do look the part I'll have you know.
Stephan and his lovely wife,,,German,
I keep seeing this little red 2CV parked, I even took a good look at it the other day,,
Tidy car I thought,
So today I'm taking the cover off the bike and contemplating a ride,,,it's cloudy but doesn't rain much during the day so thought,,,I'm British surely I can watch for the puddles, anyway
This chap comes upto me and starts saying what a nice bike,,
We then spend a good hour chatting away,, turns out it's his 2CV they've driven it down through Italy and are sort of on there way back home, stopped to see St Tropez etc,,
A 2CV all that way,, who's the nutter now!
He's rebuilt it from the ground up and was very proud of it,,,
He owned Alfa's for years but got fed up with fighting off the rust
There off tomorrow and asked me to join them this evening for a glass of wine, I gladly accepted,, trouble is he says he's been having fuel starvation problems,, might not make it back tonight he said in a very matter of fact way,, very German I thought
Here's a pic of him and his lovely wife, I can't remember her name doh!
We've exchanged details and I will call him if he doesn't show this evening just to check their safe.
So after that I thought I'd go for a local ride,, shorts on as it's still very warm and off I go towards La Croix Valmer,,
Found yet another beach and had a coffee.
As I'm walking out I see a bar with Conga drums on a small stage,,,I played drums for years, couldn't resist so walked in and asked the lady owner if I could make some noise,,
Yes she says,,, just her and a few chaps sitting at the bar,,,
I start tapping the things,, she likes it so puts some funkie disco music on,,,
That's it I'm off with the fairies ripping it up,,,
Asked if she could take my picture,,, so then I asked if she could do one on my phone.
Now you know what an ugly blighter I am
Bell Bullet helmet,,,that and my leathers,,,,I do look the part I'll have you know.
It's not all good,,,
I've been getting eaten by a mosquito in my room,,,
Yesterday I tore the room apart, everything outside and went a hunting,,,,
Found you you little ,,,,,,, fat as fk, my blood,,, it's a splatted Mosquito now
I might moan about home sometimes but at least we only have flies!
Ttfn
I've been getting eaten by a mosquito in my room,,,
Yesterday I tore the room apart, everything outside and went a hunting,,,,
Found you you little ,,,,,,, fat as f
k, my blood,,, it's a splatted Mosquito now I might moan about home sometimes but at least we only have flies!
Ttfn
No worries Richard, I'll ring you as I have a special deal with my provider
Phew, Stephan made it back,, Sabine his wife is pouring the wine as I speak,,,,
Impeccable English and we have many things in common,,,he's learning about Pistonheads, he's always trying to get spare parts for his little car,,,,remind you of something!
Rode bikes for years and we've been comparing scars
He loves old British cars and thinks my Triumph is outstanding, Sabine says he was talking about it all last night,, he'd heard me leave earlier in the evening and was enthused.
It's getting boring I'm sure but these comments are on an hourly basis almost!
Anyway I'm far to busy to waste time on here
Alun
Phew, Stephan made it back,, Sabine his wife is pouring the wine as I speak,,,,
Impeccable English and we have many things in common,,,he's learning about Pistonheads, he's always trying to get spare parts for his little car,,,,remind you of something!
Rode bikes for years and we've been comparing scars
He loves old British cars and thinks my Triumph is outstanding, Sabine says he was talking about it all last night,, he'd heard me leave earlier in the evening and was enthused.
It's getting boring I'm sure but these comments are on an hourly basis almost!
Anyway I'm far to busy to waste time on here
Alun
Yes Graham, I remembered you said that's where your parents are and I think I took the same mountain road you've just mentioned! Lovely on the way out,,,,came back the same way about 6.45pm,,, getting darker and the clouds were decending on top of me,,, had a bit of a panic on really,,,very low visability etc,,, great views but I couldn't stop (photo) as I seriously thought I'd be staying the night up there 
I did Criox Valmer last week also, bit more protection from the wind,,some days it's getting quite strong when on the beach etc. it's actually quite a relief because it's still very warm as I'm sure you know.
Graham your better than having Judith Chalmers on bourd
My friendly Cockeral has woke me again? It's a lovely sound to be honest,,,, feels like I'm in the countryside and also reminds me of Wales as a child,, farming and all that
I did Criox Valmer last week also, bit more protection from the wind,,some days it's getting quite strong when on the beach etc. it's actually quite a relief because it's still very warm as I'm sure you know.
Graham your better than having Judith Chalmers on bourd
My friendly Cockeral has woke me again? It's a lovely sound to be honest,,,, feels like I'm in the countryside and also reminds me of Wales as a child,, farming and all that
Newport,,,surprised you got out alive
Last night was the most enjoyable so far,,
Stephan and Verone (Sabine where did that come from??)
A lovely gentle couple with a passion for life and a we'll get there sometime type mentality.
We shared breakfast this morning also and it was like meeting old friends.
I've just waved them off as they head on to Monaco for another days driving,,,
Stephan was overwhelmed at the pics of the Tvr,, he's never seen one let alone see what I've been doing to it ,,
Sometimes people like these two help me realise why I'm in love with our cars and how much respect it affords you.
We were all sad to say goodbye and I'll call him when I get home,,he wants to know I'm safe. I have mates who care less!
We shared many moments of laughter at English car engineering etc.
he owns a few old Mercs,, W155 and others that I can't recall, wine!!
Here's the last picture I took just before heading off.
Last night was the most enjoyable so far,,
Stephan and Verone (Sabine where did that come from??)
A lovely gentle couple with a passion for life and a we'll get there sometime type mentality.
We shared breakfast this morning also and it was like meeting old friends.
I've just waved them off as they head on to Monaco for another days driving,,,
Stephan was overwhelmed at the pics of the Tvr,, he's never seen one let alone see what I've been doing to it ,,
Sometimes people like these two help me realise why I'm in love with our cars and how much respect it affords you.
We were all sad to say goodbye and I'll call him when I get home,,he wants to know I'm safe. I have mates who care less!
We shared many moments of laughter at English car engineering etc.
he owns a few old Mercs,, W155 and others that I can't recall, wine!!
Here's the last picture I took just before heading off.
Anybody wanna hear about my latest crazy day!
Well I'm gonna tell you anyway
Clouds thinning today but still dark over the hills,,,I enjoy the many beaches of Croix Valmer so pottered over on the bike this afternoon,,
Saw this nice Honda and parked up,,,same helmet as mine locked to the bike,, so I went into the beach cafe and sort of flashed my helmet,,,carefull,,, around and sure enough a guy nods,,,
Young chap with his girlfriend,,Manu and Rebecca,,,invite me to join them for a beer,,
Ten minutes talking about bikes and then he tells me he's a musician in a band in Paris,,,,,drummers just left the band,,,
Crickey I was a drummer once I say,, so we then spend a few hours talking music etcetc.
The band are in Brittany recording in October,,,with a drum machine
Nah that's no good I tell him so he invites me to come over and record with them????!!!!
At my age I say,, don't be foolish,,,I'm a Brit,,, deep respect for our music all over the world etc
I can't promise I say but we exchange phone numbers and I said I'd look his band up on YouTube and see if I can play to his sound?
I won't play gigs but I can record anyday,,,,
I haven't looked as yet but I may well go over and help them out..
How cool is that,,,
His gran lives in Grimaud,,,I've not been there yet so I'll have a listen to his music and if I like it I'll go over to his tonight for dinner,,, 10.30pm that's dinner time?!!!
Oh to be young
I'll forget about it by the time I'm home but if I commit I'll do it.
Mad mad holiday this is turning out to be,,,
Al
Anyone into music,,, I like Nat King Cole but check out these crazy mothers. ,,
BIRDY HUNT on YouTube
I like them,, a bit like some stuff I did about 30 years ago,,
I'm going to dinner with Manu,,,if you look he's one of the keyboard players with big hair,,
The singers a nutter but that's nothing new!
I can play to that in my sleep, I've been thinking of selling all my fabulous drums so if he wants me too I'm I'm going to record with the band,, a last harah sort of thing.
You only live once.
Probably won't happen but it's a fun idea if nothing else.
Al
BIRDY HUNT on YouTube
I like them,, a bit like some stuff I did about 30 years ago,,
I'm going to dinner with Manu,,,if you look he's one of the keyboard players with big hair,,
The singers a nutter but that's nothing new!
I can play to that in my sleep, I've been thinking of selling all my fabulous drums so if he wants me too I'm I'm going to record with the band,, a last harah sort of thing.
You only live once.
Probably won't happen but it's a fun idea if nothing else.
Al
I'm pleased I'm making someone laugh as I'm laughing my gonads off at this barmy holiday.
Ok I'm wearing a crisp white T shirt and jeans, a few African Joolz I picked up for my kids,
Joolz ,, old bits of wood by the looks of it
And I'm looking goooood baby,,
I'm just about to rip off over to Grimaud village on the loud bike to see a guy with big hair, thinks he's JK or someone,, it's good to stay young I reckon.
Unfortunay his girl friend,, though Italian looks like Shreck, weird massive jaw,, hey I'm being cruel she's lovely
I look like a crash victim so who am I to speak,,
It's odd as yesterday I posted pathetic song lyrics and bongo,d, is it fate or just another silly moment of madness on an already mad holiday,,
One serious note,, well not really but I rode my bike at no more than 3000 revs today and I adored it, I've been wondering if I have a bolt loose,,,,,,,,,in my brain because I rode that bike with some insanity at the Gorge,, and I've been upset about it since.
Maybe it's Carma as I put my heart and soul into that ride, never ever again will I try that stuff,,,,,
I nearly st the bed that night,, waking up in a cold sweat,,
Ok let's go and have some fun,,,, actually it's because I can't order the food very well!
I asked for Steak tartar for lunch the other day,, thought it was like beef pie,,,,
This beautiful waitress comes over and puts down what looked like uncooked,,,,, human brains,, honest it was raw,
I left it for a moment and I'm sure the fker moved it was so red and alive looking.
I ate it but boy I wasn't sure if they were in the kitchen laughing at me.
It was actually quite nice but raw food and blood,, I heaved every mouthful.
Thanks for the encouragement you bleeders,,
Yeah I'll still say hi when I'm on a massive boat and can't find a relay for the Maserati,,,,,
I do have a real good laugh on here so I hope someone enjoys my effort.
Alun
Ok I'm wearing a crisp white T shirt and jeans, a few African Joolz I picked up for my kids,
Joolz ,, old bits of wood by the looks of it
And I'm looking goooood baby,,
I'm just about to rip off over to Grimaud village on the loud bike to see a guy with big hair, thinks he's JK or someone,, it's good to stay young I reckon.
Unfortunay his girl friend,, though Italian looks like Shreck, weird massive jaw,, hey I'm being cruel she's lovely
I look like a crash victim so who am I to speak,,
It's odd as yesterday I posted pathetic song lyrics and bongo,d, is it fate or just another silly moment of madness on an already mad holiday,,
One serious note,, well not really but I rode my bike at no more than 3000 revs today and I adored it, I've been wondering if I have a bolt loose,,,,,,,,,in my brain because I rode that bike with some insanity at the Gorge,, and I've been upset about it since.
Maybe it's Carma as I put my heart and soul into that ride, never ever again will I try that stuff,,,,,
I nearly s
t the bed that night,, waking up in a cold sweat,, Ok let's go and have some fun,,,, actually it's because I can't order the food very well!
I asked for Steak tartar for lunch the other day,, thought it was like beef pie,,,,
This beautiful waitress comes over and puts down what looked like uncooked,,,,, human brains,, honest it was raw,
I left it for a moment and I'm sure the f
ker moved it was so red and alive looking. I ate it but boy I wasn't sure if they were in the kitchen laughing at me.
It was actually quite nice but raw food and blood,, I heaved every mouthful.
Thanks for the encouragement you bleeders,,
Yeah I'll still say hi when I'm on a massive boat and can't find a relay for the Maserati,,,,,
I do have a real good laugh on here so I hope someone enjoys my effort. Alun
Just woke up,,,, hungover,,,! Why do I swear so much on these threads,,my working class roots maybe! Sorry.
What can I say,,,Grimaud village/town,,,wonderful old place, with a couple of bars and a very special restaurant with a joyfull owner and food that explodes with taste in your mouth,, Manu has a cousin who's a master woodworker,,we got on very well,,, 8 of us had a fun filled time,,
The girls,,,oh the girls, you know these provocative French do romance and love like few others,,
Beautiful olive skin and eyes that shine like diamonds wearing classy dresses and all of them stunners,,,
It's all kissing and touching eachother including me,,treated me like a king, wonderful manners, seducing me with their eyes and beautiful smiles,,, these people all in their late twenties living the dream, they know how lucky they are,,
I acted like I didn't notice which just makes them do it more,,,I'm not stupid you know
French girls are so full of love and passion it was a joy to be around them,,
Legs like silk, slim beautiful bodies and perfect vital statistics,,, I'm a drummer,,,,it always has women seeing something in me that don't actually exist but I play on it anyway,,,
I'm a gentleman and I pride myself on it,, they loved my English accent,, find me cute for trying to speak French,,,nothing untoward but I was warmed and showed them all great love and respect in return,,,
What an evening,, warm and the clouds had disappeared so the stars were out, it's a Cirtain type of light and just lends itself to all this romancing,,,I'm in love after that night,, not sure with what, just beautiful people treating me with that youthful joy of life,, invigorating.
So I was careful as to what I was drinking(bike ride home) and then Manu tells me he wants a beer in the local Irish bar,,,2 mind from my campsite so we ride back to the port,,his girlfriend on the back of his Honda, I really enjoyed that steady ride back together,,
I park up at the campsite and we spend the next few hours drinking beer and discussing his music project.
I'll help him,,, dead end st but hey I like drumming, and this is what memories are made of.
I'm close to being to old to drum now so a week or so in Brittany getting drunk and playing music,,,if you could you would,,,I payed my due's leaning the drums over decades,, it's a skill I never use anymore so to help out a very intelligent lad who's also successful in his own profession seems like a good idea to me. I said cruel words about his girlfriend which was very unfair,, she has jet black hair and very beautiful really,,
Half naked and I'd marry her,,, lovely lovely girl,, bells bella bella,,
We talked about Vallentino Rossi,,,her eyes lighting up and as with all people allover the world,,she loves him like family,,,we shared cuddles and lovely cheak kisses over him,, hahah.
Manu thinking I'm English kept ordering me pints of Blond,,,the beer here is like the water,,pure,,,
I drank with him and now I've woke up to a perfect sunny day, I'm regretting it!
I'd contacted my eldest some who is also 28 years old and a fine musician himself,,asked him to check out the music before I went over and he said go for it dad,,,that's why I went,,, he's a great boy and he's doing great things with his life so if he supports me I could knock a brick wall down with my fists to get what's needed.
So what do I do today,, eat bread, water and enjoy the
warmth that's flowing from my body,,,let alone the warm sun on my back.
Wish you were here,,,,
One other moment we enjoyed last night,,,his friend wanted a pic of me and Manu with out helmets on together,,,, standing toe to toe like two boxers,,,it was very amusing,,,I asked him to send me the pic but he was drunk so I just hope he remembers.
Finally,,, I forgot to mention arriving on my bike,, the French all adored it,, men walking out the bar just to look at it,,,Manu's friends took me as a like minded brother from the moment I got there. This Triumph is a special bike.
What can I say,,,Grimaud village/town,,,wonderful old place, with a couple of bars and a very special restaurant with a joyfull owner and food that explodes with taste in your mouth,, Manu has a cousin who's a master woodworker,,we got on very well,,, 8 of us had a fun filled time,,
The girls,,,oh the girls, you know these provocative French do romance and love like few others,,
Beautiful olive skin and eyes that shine like diamonds wearing classy dresses and all of them stunners,,,
It's all kissing and touching eachother including me,,treated me like a king, wonderful manners, seducing me with their eyes and beautiful smiles,,, these people all in their late twenties living the dream, they know how lucky they are,,
I acted like I didn't notice which just makes them do it more,,,I'm not stupid you know
French girls are so full of love and passion it was a joy to be around them,,
Legs like silk, slim beautiful bodies and perfect vital statistics,,, I'm a drummer,,,,it always has women seeing something in me that don't actually exist but I play on it anyway,,,
I'm a gentleman and I pride myself on it,, they loved my English accent,, find me cute for trying to speak French,,,nothing untoward but I was warmed and showed them all great love and respect in return,,,
What an evening,, warm and the clouds had disappeared so the stars were out, it's a Cirtain type of light and just lends itself to all this romancing,,,I'm in love after that night,, not sure with what, just beautiful people treating me with that youthful joy of life,, invigorating.
So I was careful as to what I was drinking(bike ride home) and then Manu tells me he wants a beer in the local Irish bar,,,2 mind from my campsite so we ride back to the port,,his girlfriend on the back of his Honda, I really enjoyed that steady ride back together,,
I park up at the campsite and we spend the next few hours drinking beer and discussing his music project.
I'll help him,,, dead end st but hey I like drumming, and this is what memories are made of.
I'm close to being to old to drum now so a week or so in Brittany getting drunk and playing music,,,if you could you would,,,I payed my due's leaning the drums over decades,, it's a skill I never use anymore so to help out a very intelligent lad who's also successful in his own profession seems like a good idea to me. I said cruel words about his girlfriend which was very unfair,, she has jet black hair and very beautiful really,,
Half naked and I'd marry her,,, lovely lovely girl,, bells bella bella,,
We talked about Vallentino Rossi,,,her eyes lighting up and as with all people allover the world,,she loves him like family,,,we shared cuddles and lovely cheak kisses over him,, hahah.
Manu thinking I'm English kept ordering me pints of Blond,,,the beer here is like the water,,pure,,,
I drank with him and now I've woke up to a perfect sunny day, I'm regretting it!
I'd contacted my eldest some who is also 28 years old and a fine musician himself,,asked him to check out the music before I went over and he said go for it dad,,,that's why I went,,, he's a great boy and he's doing great things with his life so if he supports me I could knock a brick wall down with my fists to get what's needed.
So what do I do today,, eat bread, water and enjoy the
warmth that's flowing from my body,,,let alone the warm sun on my back.
Wish you were here,,,,
One other moment we enjoyed last night,,,his friend wanted a pic of me and Manu with out helmets on together,,,, standing toe to toe like two boxers,,,it was very amusing,,,I asked him to send me the pic but he was drunk so I just hope he remembers.
Finally,,, I forgot to mention arriving on my bike,, the French all adored it,, men walking out the bar just to look at it,,,Manu's friends took me as a like minded brother from the moment I got there. This Triumph is a special bike.
Just an idea of what it's like to wake up to a sunny day,,,look at the deep blue,,
That alone was worth the trip here.
I want to ride today but my heads pounding, son of a gun!
I need coffee,,,, lots of coffee.
67fox,,,thanks for your words of encouragement,,,it takes hours to load up so I hope I havnt missed someone's comments, if I have I appologise.
I'm looking forward to getting home so I can read this thread,,,I just hope I won't be to embarrassed ?!?
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