I've recently returned to motorcycling (2007 Yamaha XT 600 E) after a long break and have used the HU resources in researching various topics that have come to mind. I thought that as a regular visitor it was about time I joined up!

Now aged 55 I retired as a director of a rail civil engineering company in 2006, I moved to the small village of Nogueirinha in Central Portugal from the UK about four years ago. I've been busy renovating our 'Quinta' (farm) since then and am finally having a little free time to enjoy my hobbies.

I've a background in enduro and trials from what now seems an age ago and decided on the XT 600 as it's an established model that's relatively simple to maintain. I've had this bike about a month now and am pleased with it, the electric start is particularly welcome as I survey the scars on my shins from kicking over my old XT 500 in the 1980's! I live in a forested area with many tracks to explore, I'd have preferred a lighter 200 - 250cc bike but the 600 came along at the right price. I also have an old (2000) Yamaha YFS 200 Blaster quad that's road legal and ideal for the forest roads too.

I've joined the local motorcycle club (Moto Clube Oliveira do Hospital) and am planning a bit of local touring with them this summer as well as attending a few events they're organising.

We host travelers on the 'Workaway' system and also accommodate people looking for property in the area affording English speaking opportunities in this exclusively Portuguese speaking area.

Well that's a little about me, I'm looking forward to continued companionship from Horizons Unlimited members in the future and hope to be able to contribute where possible.

Hi and welcome,

I'm in the SW coast and have also recently returned to motorcycling on...you've guessed it...a 2003 XT600E!

Maybe our XT's will cross paths one of these days!

Cheers,
RN