Valheru Rides!

For various reasons it looks like my use of motorcycles is set to change around about 2026, with some usage increases within the next few months. Ignoring work patterns we’re focusing on the core issue here: I will soon be able to ride on an actual road from my residence to my place of work, not the cratered single carriageway that looks like it might have been a recent battlefield in Eastern Europe, a dual-carriageway.

It sounds a bit like a ‘Python’ sketch to be honest, but there will be a road, made of tarmac, that takes cars, in Norfolk.

Why then?

My Meteor is absolutely perfect for what it needs to do for the next few years, though after that he sadly might need an upgrade. I really don’t want to part with him and had considered the performance cam and delimiter options for the purpose of making him a little more sprightly when chugging down the dual carriageway at 70. At 65-70 he’s not the most economical beast at about 260-270km from the 10L main tank.

Still not too shabby, though combined with a potential for increased usage that 3100 mile service window is going to start repeatedly popping up. After the outlay for the cam/throttle upgrades I’d be essentially part way there on another bike and it would never be as effective during the commute slog, especially when you have Angry Dave in his BMW tailgating you.

What would I need?

In my slightly anally retentive way I seem to have narrowed down the criteria for the potential upgrade with the following requirements:

• Speed, I need to sit at 65-70 all day without nom noming away. For one off trips (like the lakes) the drop in fuel efficiency was nothing horrific. Sitting on more of the A1M on the way home was noticeable, but not horrible. The drop on my monthly commutes could really start adding up.
• Preferably a nice analogue dash, but some information is needed!
• Tripper, I’ve really warmed to it in the fact it’s a less obtrusive sat nav and does everything I need it for.
• Service gaps need to be no less than 4500 miles (why have I used miles and not km? Because it’s how they measure them at the dealer)
• It needs to look nice, no ugly plastic bug eyed fronts for me.
• Comfortable, I’m not just talking about the seat here! Ergonomics are important too!
• Future luggage options.
• Not with spoked wheels.
• Available in blue, it’s the best colour!

So with all that in mind, the hunt has officially begun. I know we’re talking 2-3 years ahead but it always pays to be prepared in advance. Watch this space!