 |
11 Nov 2006
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Uk
Posts: 10
|
|
|
Europe, 6 Months
Hi
I'm looking for someone for company, saftey reasons for a trip found Europe starting feb ish 07. France, spain, portugal, italy, austria, slovakia, romaina, poland, czech republic, germany, but i'm flexable to better ideas!
I'm 21, first big trip and pretty skint, planning to sleep in forests and live on boiled potatoes. Riding a Honda XR250R (for fuel economy) and plan to get some easy offroading in (never tried before). More interested in history, scenery and adventure than blasting down autoroutes.
If your interested or just have some advice please get in touch 
__________________
Oh no, its on fire again?
|
11 Nov 2006
|
|
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: N.Yorkshire
Posts: 336
|
|
|
euro feb 07
Can't do the jolly with you but can offer a few words of advice!
Carefull in the czech woods near the german borders, there are a lot of armed police, I was at gunpoint feb last year, they are worried about armed/dangerous eastern europeans trying to get into gemany on the many hidden footpaths. They were ok after a while, but It was quite tense initially. the local czech hunters tend to be armed as well!
It also gets cold, like -25c cold. they also dont like fires in the woods either. I was obviously being carefull, so got to keep it going.
The German roads are usually fine, even in winter, but go east from there, Ice is common. all the cars have chains and snow tyres in winter.
__________________
Harley Davidsons,
The most effective way of turning petrol into noise without the side-effect of horsepower
|
11 Nov 2006
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Lincolnshire UK
Posts: 49
|
|
|
good luck, i write this from spain 1 month into my 6 month trip from the UK Two tips, get as much money together as you can as life camping rough will be VERY VERY hard, it is nice to get a bed and a shower now and again esp. if the weather is bad. Set a daily budget and stick to it, treat yourself when you have made a saving by rough camping. You will need to eat well to avoid exhaustion and illness. Hope your prep goes well and above all enjoy !! Greg
|
11 Nov 2006
|
|
Gold Member
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: UK
Posts: 12
|
|
|
Hey
I think I am available at about Feb/Mar time in Europe. I too am 21 and also an absolute novice, and like to travel as light as possible and as pikey as possible! Perfect.
Where exactly are you coming from?
I'm on a slightly bigger bike, a DRZ 400, but I too like to bimble along, I've grown out of the fast as you can go sportsbike malarky.
Joel
|
11 Nov 2006
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: Whangarei, NZ
Posts: 2,214
|
|
|
Boy, you must be tough. I wouldn't consider camping WITH hot showers before April/May at the earliest. If you see a truck stop on a highway you may be able to get a hot shower. Dto. for indoor pools.
I'd leave a couple of months later, that gets you into October at the end which is OK in the South. Note that free camping is illegal in some countries, notably Germany. Given the German mentality, make sure you either stay well out of sight, or, better still, try asking a farmer for permission. It will not normally be refused and you are safe then.
Have fun !
|
12 Nov 2006
|
|
Gold Member
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: UK
Posts: 12
|
|
|
Nope
Not tough, just stupid! Any fool can be unfomfortable. And you don't get any more foolish than me. Though with a decent bag and bivy , Western Europe is rarely too cold to sleep, and that's warm enough in my eyes! it's just the damn wind and rain that can make it miserable. I have no knowledge of Eastern Europe, but I'm thinking that's going to be a bit chilly even for a block like me!
Joel
|
12 Nov 2006
|
 |
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: London
Posts: 124
|
|
|
Had a two week trip through Europe a couple of months ago and would be interested in going for another ride sometime soon. Most campsites are rubbish and/or closed that time of year, so camping sauvage may be a wise option anyway. I'm a little older (27), but nearly as inexperienced so I'm up for it. Give me ideas of dates and destinations and I can give you a firmer reply.
Unfortunately, I have a job, so could only do part of the trip.
Ditto on the Autoroutes. The worst day of my trip was the afternoon I got stuck on the new Autoroute from Rouen to Le Mans. Won't be doing that again.
__________________
"On that? You're nuts!" - My cousin's boyfriend
Current Bikes - Kawasaki KLE500 '05 (May 06)
Previous Bikes - Hyosung GF125 (Oct 05 to May 06)
|
13 Nov 2006
|
|
Gold Member
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: UK
Posts: 12
|
|
|
Me too
I am also slaving for the wage, so can't go for that long, but I have saved up all my years holiday (which gets handily renewed in April) so can manage at the very least a month.
Where exactly are you in England?
Joel
|
13 Nov 2006
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Uk
Posts: 10
|
|
Great! Thanks very much everyone for the advice, I had no idea this post would be so productive! Has anyone done 'free camping' on a nightly basis? is it hard to find places? How dodgy is it safety wise?
I'm pretty poor and a vegan so a lot of clothing and bags are off limit (down, leather some glues, companies etc) any suggestions on staying warm?
Hi muvafuka, I'm not sure yet, i just printed of a map of europe, i'll try and figure out some dates and post them up.
Hi Joel Its good to know there are others as daft as me around!
Im currently sleeping on a friends floor in wales, wheres you?
Thanks again,
Ben
p.s. if people only want to meet up for bits of the trip thats ok.
__________________
Oh no, its on fire again?
|
13 Nov 2006
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Uk
Posts: 10
|
|
|
That was a bit vague, I'm near Brecon in wales. I keep forgetting wales is a whole country, its just so damn small...
__________________
Oh no, its on fire again?
|
13 Nov 2006
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: London
Posts: 1
|
|
|
This is exacctly what I'm planning to do, but your going a bit early for me - I plan to set off when It's a bit warmer ie about April / May.
Burdy - I've got a DRZ400SM, what model is yours ? only had it a few weeks but it's great fun, and after a few modifications I'm sure it'll be a good tourer.
|
13 Nov 2006
|
|
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: N.Yorkshire
Posts: 336
|
|
|
camping
Winter campers tend to be given a bit more leeway when it comes to overnighting aldente... So long as you aren't starting large fires to keep warm and leaving rubbish, you will probably even get offers of accomodation en-route if it is seriously cold. The winter biking fraternity has a lot of camerarderie.
The best tactic is to wait until late afternoon, spot a good overnight bivvy, then go somewhere like a cafe for a couple of hours, warm up, use the facilities (subtly) have a mug of coffee then back to the bivvy spot for a nights kip with an early getaway. Always worked for me.
__________________
Harley Davidsons,
The most effective way of turning petrol into noise without the side-effect of horsepower
|
13 Nov 2006
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: N.Yorks UK
Posts: 79
|
|
|
Free camping can be had if you head onto the Peage in France and stay at a service station/rest area, many are truck stops, so are open all night with coffee machines, sell warm food and have hot showers.
Fine if you don't mind artics trundling past all night!
Have a good trip.
Phil
__________________
650 Transalp
|
14 Nov 2006
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,598
|
|
Quote:
|
Originally Posted by shandydrinker
Free camping can be had if you head onto the Peage in France and stay at a service station/rest area, many are truck stops, so are open all night with coffee machines, sell warm food and have hot showers.
Fine if you don't mind artics trundling past all night!
Have a good trip.
Phil
|
You can also do this at the many 'aires' or laybyes on major non peage routes.
it is better to be at the back where it is more secluded and out of the way.
a tip. examing carefully (with a torch if necessary ) where you are to pitch your tent as many people let their dogs out at these rest stops  I would suggest you do not light any fires and stick to gaz or fuel for cooking.
|
15 Nov 2006
|
|
Gold Member
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: UK
Posts: 12
|
|
|
evening
Quote:
|
Hi Joel Its good to know there are others as daft as me around!
|
That's one thing you can always rely on on a board like this!
I've 'free camped' in this country a fair bit, but have no knowledge of Europe mainland. On own, I think camping can be a bit dodgy, I haven't always felt safe, but in a group or even just a pair, I'm sure safety is upped tenfold.
As for sleeping bags, I'm no vegan, so not sure how they stand, but Snugpak have always worked for me. They're not the cheapest, but small and warm. Failing that, a British Army issue bag and bivvy is warm as fook, just a bit big.
I'm working near Lincoln at the moment, but it changes quite regularly, I am pretty much of no fixed abode - which makes it so much easier to leave. 
Quote:
|
Burdy - I've got a DRZ400SM, what model is yours ? only had it a few weeks but it's great fun, and after a few modifications I'm sure it'll be a good tourer.
|
I'm riding an 'S,' I've only had it for 2000 miles (after p/xing my old sports bike) but I'm enjoying it. I can ride it below 100 mph and have fun - a revelation! Good for my license and my life expectancy. Just wish the tank was not so damn bone! I cant't justify £350 for an Aquiline when that money could be a month spent living in India.
Quote:
|
The best tactic is to wait until late afternoon, spot a good overnight bivvy, then go somewhere like a cafe for a couple of hours, warm up, use the facilities
|
Glad I'm not the only one to do this. Makes me feel like a total pikey - but makes so much sense!
Joel
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|
helps answer the question - Why Go? Inspirational stories by veteran travellers Greg Frazier (5 times RTW), Peter and Kay Forwood (193 countries), Tiffany Coates (Mongolia Mayhem) and Rene Cormier (University of Gravel Roads).
Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers!
break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Show your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Motorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
Linear Mode
