James was home and his stolen-recovered-refurb'd CB500 was in need of a run out so I woke him and told the Missus we were off in search of cycle parts for a bicycle project of mine. I'm certain that her idea of a downtime activity wouldn't be riding 100 miles and meeting up with some mates for breakfast but as a by product of a trip to see a single gear specialist it was perfectly acceptable!
On arrival at Alton's Station Cafe the gathering was small but perfectly formed, consisting of me, James, Chief Keith and PhilMel (X9OC and MSRC) and our very own Muppet, Dave Weller.
For a bunch of folk tat met up through enthusiasm for Maxi Scooters none of us were riding them this time. Keith was on his Jawa 350, Phil on his MZ301 and Dave turned up on his VanVan.
The chat was excellent as usual as was the breakfast (thanks for the extra fried bread, Dave!) The sound (and smell) as Keith and Phil fired up their Commie stinkwheels was marvellous!
It rained all the way back. We were a tad damp when we got back here. 50 miles in the rain in leathers was a good test. James was wet through under his jacket. I was convinced that my leathers hadn't leaked...till I took them of and realised that the Aldi base layer top and leggings were masking the fact that I was soaked too!
Anyway despite the lack of Maxis this was a collection of machines fit to grace any cafe and all of which I'd like to own. I'm not so sure that having even a quick ride on Dave's VanVan was a great idea. I'm having to physically resist checking ebay now! James was notably impressed with the VanVan too and particularly with the ring ding Iron Curtain two strokes.
Just so we weren't lying about our intentions we did drop into 1st gear cycles on the way back along with the Ducati dealership just up the road from the Station Cafe where James picked up a limited edition Rossi Ducati cap.
