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Route Planning Where to go, when, what are the interesting places to see
Photo by Andy Miller, UK, Taking a rest, Jokulsarlon, Iceland

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Andy Miller, UK,
Taking a rest,
Jokulsarlon, Iceland



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  • 1 Post By Endurodude

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  #1  
Old 26 May 2014
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West Yorkshire to Barcelona

I'm planning to go to Barcelona to see my son who lives there, I've never ridden abroad, which way is the best option thro' France or ferry to Santader, this is shorter riding distance but quite expensive, any thoughts would be great fully recieved
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  #2  
Old 26 May 2014
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First of all, ! Riding abroad scared me at first, but I wouldn't want to be without it now! FAR better than UK riding!

In answer to your question, it depends on how long you've got. The ferry south is potentially quicker, and there's a fair bit of lovely countryside (mountains, Andorra, etc) once there. On the other hand, I enjoyed riding all the way there through France. There are some lovely parts of France through which you could meander, if time allowed.

If you have no pressing commitments (work or the like), I'd sit with a map and see where your mind wanders!

Ps, hope you're coming to HUBB UK - loads of inspiration!
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  #3  
Old 26 May 2014
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Easy ride it all

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bonny865 View Post
I'm planning to go to Barcelona to see my son who lives there, I've never ridden abroad, which way is the best option thro' France or ferry to Santader, this is shorter riding distance but quite expensive, any thoughts would be great fully recieved
Basically if you want to ride your bike abroad - ride all the way!

Riding through France is a piece of cake and very enjoyable. As long as you have the time available of course. For a first timer "abroad" it's a great place to start. Just don't make the mistake of going on all motorways, fine to eat up some miles but is no fun at all. Back roads are great and you really can relax.

Jump on a Dover- Calais ferry and you will probably meet up with other bikers. Don't be afraid to tell them you are a first timer, they will probably invite you to ride with them for a bit. I met a guy once who was very hot and bothered on the ferry, it was his first time. I told him to follow me when we got off. After an hour he was happy.

Pick a route and join the dots with your bikes tank range between the dots. Hotel or camping is easy to find in most areas. Its a nice ride to hit the south of France and follow the coast road to Barcelona.

It all really depends on your time available as to how long you take to get there. And of course your wheels 125 or 1200cc?

In my view the worst bit will be the first bit from home to Dover, once in Calais, find your way out and relax and enjoy!
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Learning my craft for the big stuff, it won't be long now and it's not that far anyway
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Old 26 May 2014
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Thank for the info, I will bear all this in mind and start planning
Vive la France
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