Preparations

7/Dec/14 

Glasgow, miles 0

I  am 34 year old, and took me some time to pass my motorbike licence - 15 years since first started. Now I am getting ready to start my biggest adventure I was dreaming for long time. 

Time was necessary to complete whole list - when, how and where I'm going to. This moment is nervous and looking like most of ticks been mark. Time and money plays big role in my preparation but there is much more behind it. First, was an inspiration which came after reading book Mondo Enduro by Austin Vince which I got from my good Scottish friend Scott. Secondly I need motorbike - my choice was Yamaha XT 600E, the lightest six hundred I could find. Low mileage cause she was only 5200 miles old. From that moment I had transportation (not for long time - my lady was stolen and recovered - thanks for Glasgow Police). Than was time of preparation for her, I have striped electrics and paint her nicely. Motorbike has set of critical spares as well small set of tools, both together in separate tool box-very heavy. She got big Acerbic tank - 23 litres and big luggage too.

Paul's handcrafted panniers

Total luggage space is 258.75 litres. This is two huge aluminium panniers made by Paul, are my main storage. I have to weld some support for them too. They are nicely painted by Andrew - zebra patterns are symmetrical in both sides. I also have kind of cover with bag between two luggage made for size from Krawiectwo Ewa tailor from my home town Olsztyn. Apart that I'm taking small - junior size guitar and some basic photo and video equipment. Clothes and kitchen is smallest part of my packing. There is some ordinary camping gadgets as well. Around 70 kg of weight in total. 

Ride on - Glasgow - thank you for your support

Zebra is almost ready 

Andrew -  he made zebra patern 

My garage - tent - on the back garden

Today was first day of sleet (snow) in Glasgow but I hoping to get to Newcastle ferry before real cold will come. Than supposedly Amsterdam and travel down to south of France. I still need fix my travel computer and visit Ride On - motorcycle garage to get my clutch replaced. There is big number of small things to get before travel but main are International Driving Permit, and some money solution - travelling checks etc. I will tell you more of  preparations next time. So see you!