Need transport, as catching trains all month has killed me, I am so pissed off at the sh*t infrastructure in place in this country for public transport, trains in particular... they have dedicated roadways, they are timetabled to prevent traffic jams, makes you wonder why the hell they are always delayed.
Two options... Motorbike... Car.
Car - All weather, warm, carrying capacity, passengers, comfort.
Bike - Cheap to insure, cheap to run, carry one passenger, fast through heavy traffic, faster to get full licence.
So... this is my thread of greatness that will chronicle my rise to two wheel motorised goodness.
Shopping List.
- Helmet: Nitro (http://www.jsaccessories.co.uk/hermes/shop/item?itemId=1998)
- Jacket: Maxi (http://www.jsaccessories.co.uk/hermes/shop/item?itemId=2565)
- Trousers: Maxi (http://www.jsaccessories.co.uk/hermes/shop/item?itemId=2568)
- Gloves: IXS (http://www.jsaccessories.co.uk/hermes/shop/item?itemId=2152)
Question is... what bike to aim for? I have decided to just do an intensive DAS course. Was thinking something like a Bandit 400... to buy after I do the course. Enough poke to ride to nottingham/london/reading/leatherhead and back to bristol, and also to go over the bridge to Cardiff :)
Opinions?
Bike Route, Progress so far:
Edited:
As the latest posts suggest, I am now also persuing the car route. Progress so far:
Car Theory Test: Passed 19/10/07
First Lesson: 19/10/07 - Left hand turns, T Junctions, Roundabouts (2hr)
Second Lesson: 27/10/07 - Right hand turns (1hr)
Third Lesson: 08/12/07 - Recap + Drive + 5th gear and 60mph, roundabouts + merging traffic + Clutch Control(2hr)
Have you got any biking expereance? If not then a bandits a bit mental.
Other than pottering around on a 125 for a month or so on an industrial estate, and riding a bicycle on roads from A to country lanes, for the last 2 years... no. :)
Been in contact with several riding schools, and they all seem to think a 5 or 6 day course should be fine.
Go for a Vespa 150 super
http://www.vespaclassics.com/scooterssold.htm
If you really want a Motorbike then Id suggest an Eliminator (http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/detail.aspx?id=218&content=introduction) this is based on very litle knowledge of motorcycles, but it does look good and maybe get a bigger bike in a year when youve had a bit more experience of riding? (I personally dont want you killing yourself)
Bike Licence + Reliant 3-wheeler = Win
Quote from: mr_rollIf you really want a Motorbike then Id suggest an Eliminator this is based on very litle knowledge of motorcycles, but it does look good and maybe get a bigger bike in a year when youve had a bit more experience of riding? (I personally dont want you killing yourself)
lol... kawasaki eliminator... sort of my style, except a 125 looking like that will sound pathetic, and thus laughed at.
Also...riding several hundred miles at 60mph would suck arse. I want something I can get on, take on the motorway, have enough push to get out of trouble (overtaking for example), and cruise happily at 70mph, without me needing to cuddle the fuel tank, and stretch the throttle cable :D lol
Quote from: EggtasticoBike Licence + Reliant 3-wheeler = Win
Could be a serious option if I needed a car at some point. Wonder if you could hire such wonderful contraptions :D
Rant:
IMO the direct access is completely daft, and stupidly dangerous. There is no WAY anyone, and that includes the most talented road racers, can get straight on a litre-class superbike and be safe on the road. I actually cannot believe that this option exists outside of somewhere like india or pakistan.
A personal friend of mine went over to england to do a DAS course when I got my first big bike - because he couldnt wait to learn on the road on a 125 and be restricted for 2 years. Hes dead now - killed himself on a corner that a little more roadcraft learnt on something smaller would have saved his life. Someting like 6 days and he was on a Bimota.
It should be compulsory until you have done something like at least 10,000 road miles to own nothing bigger than a 125.
After this the cuurent 33hp limit should be inccreased to 50-75hp, since 125s can meet and exceed 33.
Sorry for the hijack!
Yeah Id be scared to get on anything above a 125cc motorbike, until I had a bit of experience, Ive done motocross and was sooooo much fun but was dangerous and damaged the Kawasaki twice in the same place on the track.
, although I was a COMPLETE novice then. I think it was a 250cc bike, not to sure which one though.
Personally Id love something that looks like this: http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/detail.aspx?id=210
Quote from: MarkRant:
IMO the direct access is completely daft, and stupidly dangerous. There is no WAY anyone, and that includes the most talented road racers, can get straight on a litre-class superbike and be safe on the road. I actually cannot believe that this option exists outside of somewhere like india or pakistan.
A personal friend of mine went over to england to do a DAS course when I got my first big bike - because he couldnt wait to learn on the road on a 125 and be restricted for 2 years. Hes dead now - killed himself on a corner that a little more roadcraft learnt on something smaller would have saved his life. Someting like 6 days and he was on a Bimota.
It should be compulsory until you have done something like at least 10,000 road miles to own nothing bigger than a 125.
After this the cuurent 33hp limit should be inccreased to 50-75hp, since 125s can meet and exceed 33.
Sorry for the hijack!
Fair comment but I am not going to get on a litre superbike. I will accept honest suggestions for motorbikes, Just having a friend now recommending an ER-5.
My primary criteria for a bike is that I must be able to commute back and forth to wales with relative confidence on motorways.
A 125 is out because of this, a 250... im a heavy bloke, and if I want to overtake someone I want to have excess power there to do so if I need it, a 250... doesnt offer that.
Secondary Criteria... The bike has to be forgiving, I dont want to feel as if I sneeze, Ill end up on the tarmac, with my bike cartwheeling down the road. I dont necessarily want 0-60 in "wtf" speeds, I want something that works, is comfortable, doesnt try and kill me if I twitch.
Just thought of a third criteria. Id like something that I could go on a ride with others on... like a cruise around the brecon beacons.
Have you ever ridden a quick 125? Im over 17 st and theyre still quick - borderline fast. But they are unreliable. Just have a bit more of an issue with speeds over 80mph!! lol
Good example (For acceleration sake) is a 125 crosser.
250s are **FAST** - 2-stroke 250s are faster than modern superbike 600s in some cases - the acceleration is absolutely wicked. If you ever watch bike racing the RS250 (NOT Aprilia - a proper honda race bike) would absolutely piss all over a 600 4-stroke. They can have more power than a 600, and are about half the weight.
500 2-strokes are unbelievably fast - quicker than anything you can buy nowadays, and the old 750s were so fast they are frightening. I have the pleasure to own an early KR750 and it is faster than my ZX-10 in acceleration, and more than likely in top speed with the right gearing. I think theyre geared for 200mph though.
The best 2 stroke size once you have your test is a 350 - but 2-strokes dont get bought any more as the EU hates them :( I still love them - theres nothing like the sound of a proper 250 or 350 2-stroke with a good exhaust. I have a couple of RD 350s - one is bored to 380 with wiseco pistons, boyeson reeds, one tooth extra on back sprocket, and better keihn carbs - it flies. My brother has an RD500 V-4 which is awesome, but we also have an RG500 (Square 4) in bits that probably will be faster once its not in bits!
Anyway - back OT - an ER is a bland but easy to maintain and run commuter, choice would be a trail bike though, something like an XT
- theyre good fun and still plenty fast
IMO a tail bike would be a pig to do long journeys on. They are great for round town as a fast and fun alternative but they dont like to cruise at above 60mph (in my experience).
I suggested the ER5 because its a good starter, it isnt fast but should be comfortable on the motorway. Its about the least inoffensive bike that I can think of (while still having any style at all). They ride smoothly, need little maintenence and handle as youd expect it to. It shouldnt get you into any trouble.
After a quick google, the 1997 ER-5 has a top speed of 115mph so it should be comfortable at 70-80mph. linky (http://www.bikez.com/motorcycles/kawasaki_er-5_1997.php)
EDIT: More googling ...
Quote from: some guy on the internet about the 2001 model50BHP standard, can do 0-60 near 5.3 seconds, cruising speed is comfortable at 85-90mph. It will apparently go faster than this but it doesn´t go very quickly past the 70 mark.
Source
after riding one a few times, VFR 400? I found it to be a nice ride, the 400 Bandits arent too shabby, but if you end up with no fairing they are nightmare at speed.
Bike idea is silly, all my mates who have bikes are now stowing them away for winter, wet weather ahead means your chances of coming out of a road accident in one piece are reduced.
My brother had the same idea as you about a year ago, about a month after he did his crash course test he plowed into a car, he is still at home, still using crutches.
He broke his leg, ankle, foot in multiple places, has metal holding his leg together, broke his ribs and shoulder, and hit his head so hard he was in Intensive care for 2 weeks, they even had to drill into his skull to reduce pressure and swelling on his brain, and doctors said his chances were slim.
Scrap the bike idea, and get a car, at least it wont be you who has to worry about walking away from an accident.
ps.
http://www.thesmartcar.com/
cheap insurance, £35 tax and your doing wonders for the environment :)
Beaker - Final thing I want... something without a position that involves making love to the bike itself. Sports bikes just dont do it for me.
Naked cruisers, traditionals, and things yes... tourers, yes... sports :\ nahh not really.
Mark If you can show me a naked 250, that can happily cruise on motorways at 70 allowing me say 85 for overtaking... then Id go with it, but race bikes, trials, and so on.. just dont appeal to me.
Im not someone whos going to throw a bike around a track, I may do it one day but its not a big urge, and im not someone who wants to hit 100mph and keep on going, I just want a bike that will get me around in reasonable comfort and provide enough grunt for me to ride with others on rallys and cruises, without requiring earplugs, and be comfortable enough for a trip from Bristol to Nottingham, or down to Exeter or Plymouth.
bikes are just an expensive, seasonal hobby. its not cheap to learn either.
you can learn to drive in less than 6 months, even in 1day if you do a crash course.
QuoteIm not someone whos going to throw a bike around a track, I may do it one day but its not a big urge, and im not someone who wants to hit 100mph and keep on going, I just want a bike that will get me around in reasonable comfort and provide enough grunt for me to ride with others on rallys and cruises,
Believe it or not my brother was doing 30 mph, its just the car that did the damage
Quote from: BaconBike idea is silly, all my mates who have bikes are now stowing them away for winter, wet weather ahead means your chances of coming out of a road accident in one piece are reduced.
My brother had the same idea as you about a year ago, about a month after he did his crash course test he plowed into a car, he is still at home, still using crutches.
He broke his leg, ankle, foot in multiple places, has metal holding his leg together, broke his ribs and shoulder, and hit his head so hard he was in Intensive care for 2 weeks, they even had to drill into his skull to reduce pressure and swelling on his brain, and doctors said his chances were slim.
Scrap the bike idea, and get a car, at least it wont be you who has to worry about walking away from an accident.
Id rather learn to ride in the winter, and be a cautious biker, than learn in the summer, gain bad habits, and let my own confidence ruin me.
Quote from: BaconQuoteIm not someone whos going to throw a bike around a track, I may do it one day but its not a big urge, and im not someone who wants to hit 100mph and keep on going, I just want a bike that will get me around in reasonable comfort and provide enough grunt for me to ride with others on rallys and cruises,
Believe it or not my brother was doing 30 mph, its just the car that did the damage
Ive already had an off at 30mph on a pushbike. It was painful as hell yes... but im just as likely in a city to have a nasty accident on a pushbike in the winter, with next to no protective clothing on, than have an accident at similar speeds with full protective clothing.
I am now looking at decent boots to go with the kit I listed on the main page. Its looking like Ill be wrapped up in more kevlar than a swat team.
Quote from: DEViANCEbikes are just an expensive, seasonal hobby. its not cheap to learn either.
you can learn to drive in less than 6 months, even in 1day if you do a crash course.
£650 to learn for 6 days including test fees.
A car insurance wise is insanely expensive in comparison to a motorcycle.
400cc bandit = £498 fully comp.
1.3 KA = £1498 fully comp with £250 voluntary excess.
Tax lots cheaper, fuel... lots cheaper... depending on the bike, maintenance can also be a lot cheaper.
I am not a fair weather cyclist, I wouldnt be a fair weather motorcyclist. Itd be my main transport so seasonal doesnt come into it.
Ive made my mind up with regards to what I want, all im after is feedback on the choices within that. So... recommend me kit, sellers, shops, bikes, anything along those lines, but lets not turn this into a "dont get a bike get a car" thread.
Quote from: Baconps.
http://www.thesmartcar.com/
cheap insurance, £35 tax and your doing wonders for the environment :)
Company im now working for is using those godawful things as company cars. Hopefully once they get outside of London and the South East they will use something decent!
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/824594/urban_freestyle_trial/ < what about one of these sir ?
because yes that suits the name...
Traditional, cruiser, sports tourer, tourer so well, and is in fact no way a trials bike. Which Ive already said I am not interested in. :roll:
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/DriverLicensing/WhatCanYouDriveAndYourObligations/DG_4022547
Quote from: mr_rollhttp://www.metacafe.com/watch/824594/urban_freestyle_trial/ < what about one of these sir ?
That is awsome! Never seen urban trail riding before. Did have a got on a trial bike once but as with bicycles, couldnt do a thing!
I love motorbikes, Im getting one when Im 40, definitely, something like this one; http://www.scootersandmotorcycles.co.uk/AdvertView.aspx?AdvertID=2011
/I had a look through that page and cant see many 400cc things at all. The bandit thing is your best bet.
Quote from: sexytwIMO a tail bike would be a pig to do long journeys on. They are great for round town as a fast and fun alternative but they dont like to cruise at above 60mph (in my experience).
I suggested the ER5 because its a good starter, it isnt fast but should be comfortable on the motorway. Its about the least inoffensive bike that I can think of (while still having any style at all). They ride smoothly, need little maintenence and handle as youd expect it to. It shouldnt get you into any trouble.
After a quick google, the 1997 ER-5 has a top speed of 115mph so it should be comfortable at 70-80mph. linky
EDIT: More googling ...
Quote from: some guy on the internet about the 2001 model50BHP standard, can do 0-60 near 5.3 seconds, cruising speed is comfortable at 85-90mph. It will apparently go faster than this but it doesn´t go very quickly past the 70 mark.
Source
Youve been riding the wrong bikes.
XTs, Varaderos etc are among the most comfortable bikes for long journeys, and they also happen to be good on other terrains. An XT660 feels indestructible. Thats important for something that is going to get beat about
An ER5 is an absolutely horrible machine on the motorway and horrid above 60mph, due to the complete lack of rider protection. Good in town, sh*te out on the open road like the unfaired CB500 and the like. Theyre also pretty badly built, very low in the seat department, and absolutely gutless - totally useless for wind in your face motorway riding. Torquey trail bikes (Once again Im a big fan of the XT660) with a small fairing are the king of the motorways.
A VFR400 was suggested above - useless for long journeys. Cramped, suspension is too soft at the back and there isnt much adjustment in it. The handlebars are also raked too steeply for comfort.
Well its your choice, most seasoned riders are tucking their bikes away for winter and get the scoobies out ;)
True
And PS
I think some of you guys are picking me up wrong
A TRIAL bike is the likes of a gasgas - used for going up the sides of transits
A TRAIL bike is the likes of a honda dominator, an africa twin or a yamaha XT660
Both look like arse, and not comfortable at all for long distances.
The whole upright look of the bike makes it seem as if Id be wobbling all the time. Much much prefer comfy er. :) As for lacking fairing wouldnt an add on screen provide some protection?
My dad had all that wet weather crap on his bike. He still came home every night freezing cold and soaking wet in the winter, bless him, until one day he got his neck nearly broke when some idiot didnt look when pulling out.
Edit: not trying to put you off or nothing. I totally think people should do what they want and not take opinion as anything more than it is.
Quote from: M3ta7h3adBoth look like arse, and not comfortable at all for long distances.
The whole upright look of the bike makes it seem as if Id be wobbling all the time. Much much prefer comfy er. :) As for lacking fairing wouldnt an add on screen provide some protection?
The whole upright thing is the *Only way* you can be comfortable on long journeys.
A car would provide much better protection!
ah no... I like "upright" but not towering. :)
Yes its dangerous, but I dont have the money to run, maintain, park, fuel, or learn to drive a car.
Quote from: M3ta7h3adah no... I like "upright" but not towering. :)
Yes its dangerous, but I dont have the money to run, maintain, park, fuel, or learn to drive a car.
Public transport is a safe bet :yarr:
uh, oh or a Quad bike!
Surely you mean an ATV ? :D
Quote from: MarkSurely you mean an ATV ? :D
No i meant a bus... :shock: :D
lol lads, atv... no, quad... no... trials, trails... no.
Come on, there have been some sensible suggestions here.
ER-5
CB500
Any suggestions that are even moderately around what I want?
I just dislike the look of off-road type bikes, im not going to go off-road, and im not going to race so not particularly fussed on sports bikes.
Would consider a sports tourer with a nice upright position, and stuff like pan-europeans and stuff... thats what im into as a bike shape.
What about gear? Helmets? is the one I linked good enough?, Leathers vs synthetics?, Back protector needed?
A tourer/sports tourer is NOT a first bike. They are extremely heavy and require a whole different style of riding to anything else.
Yamaha TDM or a Fazer - I prefer the TDM due to the torquey motor - still a trail style bike but getting closer in poise to sports tourer.
(http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/graphics/2002/02/28/emfyam2.jpg)
Thats a damn nice looking bike, but that looks incredibly fancy for a first bike.
At least an ER-5 looks like it can take a knock or two. :S How much would one expect to pay for a TDM... :|
http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/bikes/bike.jsp?b=f650gs
(http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/images/bikes/f650gs/bike_photo_gallery_photos/1.jpg)
nah too trialy.
Also careful lads... thats looking like its a 650cc. From reading a gazillion forum posts around the world now, I understand about 500cc is a "nice first das bike".
GPZ500S
(http://website.lineone.net/~dave.emerson/BLACKGPZ.JPG)
500CC
V-Twin
Good All-Rounder
Essentially, A Faired ER5
Buell Blast
(http://www.caferace.com/buellblast.jpg)
Im looking for another ZXR400R For next summer.
im liking the "faired er-5", but wary of dropping it. The buell Blast looks aggressive, and cool, but also looks expensive. :)
Infinity Motorcycles and busters accessories for clothing/stuff.
As for bikes; Ive got a CBR125 atm and I am taking DAS lessons instead of an intensive course.
I can honestly say that I am happy Ive gone for individual 1 hour (1on1) lessons rather than an intensive 2on1 4 day course. The main reason being that the instructor is teaching me to ride and not just how to pass the test. He anticipates me needing ~10 lessons before a test, which will cost me about £350.
I have no plans to go on the motorway on my 125. Its fairly nippy and gets to 75-80 with no problems BUT even on dual carriageways when a car/van/lorry over takes the bike wobbles like a git because it is so light :s
I need to use the motorway really, so no real option other than to get on a big but gentle bike.
What are your bike plans after your DAS? How much did the 125 set you back?
The GPZ is a popular learner bike, so they are dropped quite regularly.
Benefit being that you can pick up parts cheap, that and the engine/gearbox are absolutly Bombproof.
Kawasaki...The Honda of the Bike world.
(Yes I know Honda make bikes but...Yawn)
Theres a blast on Biketrader, sub £2k that needs a new indicator.
In Cheshire.
Quote from: soopahflyThe GPZ is a popular learner bike, so they are dropped quite regularly.
Benefit being that you can pick up parts cheap, that and the engine/gearbox are absolutly Bombproof.
Kawasaki...The Honda of the Bike world.
(Yes I know Honda make bikes but...Yawn)
Arent hondas renowned for being amazing on bombproof engines.
I read somewhere about a CB500S doing 150,000km without needing a thing changed on it.
The likes of the Fazer and Yams are in an absolute different class to the GPZ - the GPZ is like the hyundai cars - dirt cheap and reasonably competent. Would be good as a commuter I guess but I couldnt bring myself to ride one. Id go for a Fazer at least.
Most bikes are reliable if looked after properly, however the bikes that I have found taking the biggest beating with the greatest of ease are small yams and kwaks - my KR1-S was indestructible.
You can almost guarantee that if a bike seems a good bit cheaper than others that its shafted - make sure and inspect the side casings for any repairs - best case scenario get the clutch cover off and check for any play in the main bearings. Check for new grips, suspiciously shiny clutch and brake levers, forks that are bent, repairs in the exhaust, worn mounts, pointy sprokets - if they feel sharp and pointy - theyre shafted. make sure the chain isnt slack OR adjusted all the way out - its on its last legs if it is. Get it off the ground and make sure there is no excessive swingarm/rear susp play. Check for hidden oil leaks fom the forks - freshly wiped looking. There are so many ways people will try and shaft you over on a bike, and they will try.
6/10 mint bikes are polished sh*t. If you lived over here Id go and look at them with you for peace of mind, but unfortunately I dont!
Was thinking of buying new maybe... or at least from a dealer rather than privately. May pay a premium but prefer to have a warranty of some kind. I dont really know what you mean by swingarm play (I know what a swingarm is... but wouldnt know whats excessive play), side casings? that would be the sides of the engine? or what? where abouts are those on a bike?
Handy tips youve got clearly, but im more of a layman than a mechanic, any chance you can explain a little more? :)
apologies - the side casings are indeed the sides of the engine - these often crack when the bike has slid into a kerb for example and can leak badly if not repaired properly, but lets face it, you dont really want a machine thats been slid into a kerb!!
Maybe one like mine (well mine is changed a bit and has a HD fork)
only 25 hp :)
(http://www.bsa.dk/All/30114_9.jpg)
That is a pretty bike.
Quote from: M3ta7h3adI need to use the motorway really, so no real option other than to get on a big but gentle bike.
What are your bike plans after your DAS? How much did the 125 set you back?
If I decide to take a DAS test and pass Ill sell the 125 and get a 500. The place I am learning at have said that they will probably do me a deal on the 500cc I will be using for the lessons/test.
I paid £1600 for a 9 month old sub 2k miles 125. It was private sale and the seller was talked down from wanting £2k for it :)
thats a damn good deal so even still within warranty. Damn. Nice one. Done many miles on it so far?
Yeah it had 15 months warranty left when I bought it :)
Ive put about 250-300 miles on it since picking it up. The length of my ride are increasing so I suspect that the mileage will ramp up soon :)
Ahh damn.
Right been hit with a bombshell, by the 29th January I have to be driving or riding.
My mum has offered me their car free of charge, providing I pay for the tax, mot, insurance and get it on the road... its mine.
So I guess its driving. Will also be doing my CBT at the beginning of next month (just in case I dont pass).
The Car: a 1.3ltr Lada Samara SX (1997) its done less than 8,000 miles since it was bought (1998, from new) and has been kept garaged every night, is moved every week to get the wheelie bin in and out :D
Few problems with it:
LHS Wing mirror is held on with a wing and a prayer, got taken out in a garage mishap, how much would I be looking at to replace? and is it a diy job?, its a manual control wingmirror... knob comes into the cabin see.
Rear View Mirror has been reattached about 3 times, but keeps falling off, parents are using these stick back pad things, anything better out there for reattaching rear view mirrors to the glass windscreen?
Other things:
There must be an electrical fault somewhere, a fuse blows randomly, and takes out the washer motors, pumps, and the heater fan. Ive no idea how to find it, or what on earth is causing it, would a "full service" find it? or would I have to book it in for something special?
No Radio... would ideally like to fit one... are all car radios equal? and how hard is it to fit an antenna to a car that does not have one?
Car Alarm + Immobiliser. This isnt the greatest car by no means, but it will be my sole means of transport to work, ideally dont want it stolen, again self fit? or do I have to get others to fit to qualify for insurance?
Seat belts. The retracting spring or whatever is in the drivers side seatbelt has well.. its so weak the only way it recoils stuff in is if you actually push it gently into the rollup thing. It locks... oh god it locks even on a gentle slope, so much you cant move, so its not a dangerous thing I dont think, just a case of it doesnt tidy itself away anymore. Is it a DIY job to replace a seatbelt thing? are seatbelts a universal thing?
Window winders... its manual, the passenger one is broken, would probably want to try and get it converted to electric windows, and also install some central locking. Would both tasks be a DIY job? or easier to ask a garage for a quote?
without sounding like a knob... for the things you asked "can I diy it".... the answer is not if you have to ask :(
wing mirrors are bloody expensive :(
rear view mirror... are they proper sticky pads ? go to a garage and get a proper one, clean up the screen and the mirror contact point with some petrol or something like that, then warm the windscreen up (turn the heater on till its warm) then stick it back on... that should hold it.
random fuse blowing... you need to find the fuse and see how big it is, then replace it with a bigger one ! (the next one up, they go in 5amp intervals).... and see if that fixes it, fingers crossed it does !
radio is plug in and play as long as all the right contacts are already there..... otherwise get a radio from somewhere that will fit it for cheap at the same time ! (if theres any bare wires etc.. in there then that could be why the fuse is blowing!)
car alarm... get one at the same time as the radio and get them to fit that too !
seat belt... just ignore it... its not worth the hastle/cost of getting it fixed
window winders.... electric windows will probably set you back at least £200 just for the parts then maybe another £80 for fitting.... either ignore it... or get the bits on ebay and find a mate who knows how to sort it !
tbh, for the car that it is, you don;t want to spend much on it, (even if it is in brand new condition) because itll just be money down the drain (guess all cars are like this tbh)
so just use it as a run around for the next few years then when you;re all sorted get something new :-)
Dont just whack a bigger fuse in! its a bodge and a fire hazard.
if it passes mot, leave it alone, if its dangerous, fix it. at the end of the day its a lada. it wont get stolen even if you leave the doors open and the keys in the ignition.
Its your first car and your probaby going to think your michael schumacer when you pass your test and bin it like deviance.
Quote from: M3ta7h3adAhh damn.
Right been hit with a bombshell, by the 29th January I have to be driving or riding.
My mum has offered me their car free of charge, providing I pay for the tax, mot, insurance and get it on the road... its mine.
So I guess its driving. Will also be doing my CBT at the beginning of next month (just in case I dont pass).
The Car: a 1.3ltr Lada Samara SX (1997) its done less than 8,000 miles since it was bought (1998, from new) and has been kept garaged every night, is moved every week to get the wheelie bin in and out :D
Few problems with it:
LHS Wing mirror is held on with a wing and a prayer, got taken out in a garage mishap, how much would I be looking at to replace? and is it a diy job?, its a manual control wingmirror... knob comes into the cabin see.
This should be an easy fix Id have thought, just get another one from a scrappy and replace.
QuoteRear View Mirror has been reattached about 3 times, but keeps falling off, parents are using these stick back pad things, anything better out there for reattaching rear view mirrors to the glass windscreen?
Why not give Auto Windscreens a call? or some glass repairer as theyll know what to stick rear view mirrors on with, as I dont know :)
QuoteOther things:
There must be an electrical fault somewhere, a fuse blows randomly, and takes out the washer motors, pumps, and the heater fan. Ive no idea how to find it, or what on earth is causing it, would a "full service" find it? or would I have to book it in for something special?
Only thing I can think of is there a short some where, this could be a big problem, however check all the earthing points of the car
QuoteNo Radio... would ideally like to fit one... are all car radios equal? and how hard is it to fit an antenna to a car that does not have one?
Erm, did the car come with a radio as standard? if so look and see if they have "ISO Connectors" Which should look like these:
http://www.elisenet.plus.com/images/TweeterPods/ConnectorLug.jpgIf its just a bunch of wires, you will have to work out which wire goes where.
QuoteCar Alarm + Immobiliser. This isnt the greatest car by no means, but it will be my sole means of transport to work, ideally dont want it stolen, again self fit? or do I have to get others to fit to qualify for insurance?
I think youd have to spend some £££ on getting a local alarm fitter to fit a car alarm for your insurers to be happy.
QuoteSeat belts. The retracting spring or whatever is in the drivers side seatbelt has well.. its so weak the only way it recoils stuff in is if you actually push it gently into the rollup thing. It locks... oh god it locks even on a gentle slope, so much you cant move, so its not a dangerous thing I dont think, just a case of it doesnt tidy itself away anymore. Is it a DIY job to replace a seatbelt thing? are seatbelts a universal thing?
Id visit a scrappy for this part, ring them up and see if theyll take it out of the car themselves but they will charge you more, compared you not taking it out
QuoteWindow winders... its manual, the passenger one is broken, would probably want to try and get it converted to electric windows, and also install some central locking. Would both tasks be a DIY job? or easier to ask a garage for a quote?
Hmmm, I think you can get DIY kits (although unsure about Ladas), but depends how adventurous / bored you are.
Quote from: soopahflyDont just whack a bigger fuse in! its a bodge and a fire hazard.
yeah.... but for all we know the fuse that is in is too small !
if theres a good chunk of stuff running from it theres a good changce its just overloading it and needs a bit more power ! (wipers, heather fan, back demistor all take a fair bit of power!)
http://www.electricwindowsdirect.co.uk/products.asp
£233 for electric windows
Quote from: soopahflyif it passes mot, leave it alone, if its dangerous, fix it. at the end of the day its a lada. it wont get stolen even if you leave the doors open and the keys in the ignition.
Its your first car and your probaby going to think your michael schumacer when you pass your test and bin it like deviance.
Itll pass MOT no problem providing I sort out the rear view mirror.
Michael Schumaker... with a 0-60 of 22 seconds, and my mentality of "I dont want to die" im sure itll be fine.
Nope... no radio as standard, has a Din slot but this has a big plastic thing in it, currently serving as a holder of stuffs. :D
Quote from: M3ta7h3adQuote from: EggtasticoBike Licence + Reliant 3-wheeler = Win
Could be a serious option if I needed a car at some point. Wonder if you could hire such wonderful contraptions :D
Emergency staff call them plastic pigs, about as stable as a drunk going over niagra falls on a tightrope...
I survived one crash in a van version, never going in one again. I wasnt driving.
e/of
Quote from: M3ta7h3adQuote from: soopahflyif it passes mot, leave it alone, if its dangerous, fix it. at the end of the day its a lada. it wont get stolen even if you leave the doors open and the keys in the ignition.
Its your first car and your probaby going to think your michael schumacer when you pass your test and bin it like deviance.
Itll pass MOT no problem providing I sort out the rear view mirror.
Try using some super glue rather than a new pad. yoohoo or similar is also worth trying. Clean the area of screen where it sticks very carefully first with a suitable solvent.
Get yourself a proper manual too so you can do repairs to spec.
sperglue cracks your windscreen !!!
if you get a proper pad from a garage and clean it up like i said above then itll stick it on good and solid !
as for the radio... pull out the plastic thing thats in the hole and have a look inside... see if theres a connector there ready to plug into a radio.... maybe take a photo and stick it on here and we can help you out :)
get a car alarm off ebay - no joke - theyre like £30, they work and have some good features.
piss easy to wire, same difficulty as radio.
fuse may be blowing due to a dead short in one of the electrical items you mentioned, or at worst in the loom somewhere where it hasnt been protected and has rubbed through - a famous poor build quality issue on these cars, komrade.
Quote from: M3ta7h3adNope... no radio as standard, has a Din slot but this has a big plastic thing in it, currently serving as a holder of stuffs. :D
This maybe a stupid question but, does it have speakers?
lol no speakers. :D Literally has a hole, and nowt, no antenna, speakers or anything :D
Quote from: Markget a car alarm off ebay - no joke - theyre like £30, they work and have some good features.
piss easy to wire, same difficulty as radio.
fuse may be blowing due to a dead short in one of the electrical items you mentioned, or at worst in the loom somewhere where it hasnt been protected and has rubbed through - a famous poor build quality issue on these cars, komrade.
You reckon? Thing is the only haynes manual I can find online for it is for up to 1991 models. Dont know if its worth getting that one and following the instructions in it. Seems haynes never made one for 97 models.
for the stereo all you need is a +12v either permanant or ignition switched or both. then a wire to some bare metal on the chassis (-0v) and then your wires to the speakers, you just wire those up to some iso plugs and you can have any stereo then.
if your lucky when you take the blanking plate from the DIN in the car all the cables will be behind it, maybe even on ISO connectors all ready.
I imagine for most alarms all you will need is a 12v feed, either from the stereo, cig lighter or straight from the batt. and a 0v,
Righty... this ball seems to be moving.
Theory Test booked: 19th October, 9:15am in brissle :D
Bricking it already and I only booked it a few minutes ago. Passed the online demo ones with 47 and 49 questions correct so not that worried about the theory test, more worried about the hazard perception but have a cd-rom to help with that at home :)
:
Woo... and first driving lesson tomorrow: 2 hour lesson @ 7:30pm :D
Thats somewhat gay... Driving lesson has been put back to Friday now. :(
Quote from: M3ta7h3adThats somewhat gay... Driving lesson has been put back to Friday now. :(
no a good start, tell who ever is teaching you that it better not happen often, there is plenty of competition about.
Quote from: DEViANCEQuote from: M3ta7h3adThats somewhat gay... Driving lesson has been put back to Friday now. :(
no a good start, tell who ever is teaching you that it better not happen often, there is plenty of competition about.
In fairness I called them up and pushed them for the earliest day they could have me, the woman on the phone said there was a slot this evening but there was a student that the instructor was with who may take it.
I booked it provisionally, and they called back 30 minutes later apologising but saying that the man had booked it already before the instructor checked her voicemails on her phone.
Not too bad.
lol the theory test is shockingly easy.
49/50 (44 is pass) questions, and the question I got wrong I know what I did wrong, and meant to correct it but hit end exam instead of review flagged DOH!
and Hazard Perception...
58/75 (44 is pass) which considering on one of the clips it docked me 5 points because it classed my clicking as cheating... is bloody good.
Screw weeks of preparation, one just needs 2 practice exams (the ones the DSA provide are fine), and 4 run throughs of a hazard perception test in order to get used to what on earth they want you to look for, and if you dont pass, then you must be retarded, because to be perfectly frank... that was a piece of piss.
About the most difficult question of mine was: What is a cover note for? A. Insurance, B. MOT, C. Tax, D. Registration.
Its scary how little you really need the highway code providing you have common sense.
There should be a basic practical exam
Change a Tyre
Check & Change a Fuse
Check Oil & Water - Top if required
etc
I estimate, with all the women that would keep off the road, wed more than double the middle lane capacity
That should be done, they take the time to open a bonnet up at a practical test, I think they should make you do those things... be quite good to do it :)
You should look elsewhere for lessons if its that hard to get a lesson.
I went for my "lets see where you are" instruction hour & was told I dont really need any lessons :mrgreen:
Still failed 3 times though :shock:
Wasnt that hard. its happening tonight. Just when I booked it she was fully booked, and the guy she was with at the time got the slot before she checked her voicemail.
I was told from the start that it depends if she gets her messages before someone books it. :) Starts in just over an hour :D quite excited :D lol. Hoping that Ill do alright.
cant remember what I needed for my HGV class2 licence to pass... it was a bit harder than the car one (theres a LOT more possible questions) but most are still common sence....
as for the hazard perception... youre right, a few run throughs and its easy !.... for us geeks !
when I was doing my class 2 stuff there were a LOT of lorry drivers who had been driving for years but were crying like little girls because they couldent pass the hazard perception one :o (you have to re-test every X years to be a lorry driver)
some people will spot hazards before they even show obvious signs of becoming one, its a blanket test
Okay first lesson... I think from the feedback (unless she was bullsh*tting me :D lol) that I absolutely rocked the planet on that.
Did:
- Cockpit stuffs... mirrors and whatnot.
- Starting offs
- Pulling overs
- Changing gears (to 3rd... was going to do 4th but did something else after)
- Left hand turns
- Left hand turns emerging into traffic (T Junction)
- Roundabouts (the thing we did instead of just changing up to 4th).
Bad Points: I crossed my arms a bit, I hit a phase of stalling about 5 times in a row at the same point.
Good Points: Everything was pretty much automatic after being shown it once, I positioned my car correctly at junctions for the turn, mirrors - signal - manouvre of my own accord, automatically checked the mirrors pretty much every 10 seconds or so just to check for things going on, dealt with twats who would overtake me just cause I have an L plate on the roof, apparantly showed more skill in driving than some students shes been trying to teach for around 10 hours.
Gear changes were always smooth, starting out had the stalling issue for about 10 minutes but got over that, stopping at the white line again... automatic, even when in 3rd and increasing speed, made sure I kept it at 30mph :) without being yelled at. :D
Ahh I think im addicted.
Next Lesson: Saturday 27th October - Right hand turns & something else.
that sounds pretty good for a first lesson !
my first instructor was way too slow, he took forever telling me things I already knew (like how breaks, clutch etc.. work)
ditched him after he fell asleep during a lesson with his foot on the break with me driving along :s
if youve done that much on a first lesson then you should fly through !
It depends on your rate of learning and quality of instructor. To me that sounds like a solid first lesson. Any less and Id be looking for instruction elsewhere, so good job.
I predict Richard will be elbowing Lewis out of the McLaren in 6 months time. But they may need a bigger car :mrgreen:
is this the longest thread ever in c&b
lol and itll get longer :D
lol @ Greg :D does my bum look big in this?
I think the content of the lesson is about right, but it was the stuff she was saying about how smooth gear changes were, and how Id mastered the lifting of the brake a little just before I stopped so I didnt judder, and the road positioning.. well thats the stuff thats made my ego a little bigger :D lol
http://paultan.org/archives/2005/07/21/a-lotus-lada/
(http://static.paultan.org/lotuslada_feat_lead2.jpg)
(http://static.paultan.org/lotuslada_feat_lead3.jpg)
a good teacher will encourage and give confidence.
lol mines not a riva thankfully :) thats just a shoebox on wheels, but I remember seeing that lotus lada before :) still not going to win any races, but iirc had decent handling :)
Lesson 2 done with. (1hr)
Right hand turns mastered, and more roundabout fun! :D
Next lesson involves driving to and from the area she teaches me :) yay. :D
Crikey. I barely got through cockpit checks and moving off on my first lesson. Thats some cramming. Though he did decide to go somewhere on the other side of town for some reason. I never heard from him again and swiftly changed instructors, though strangely still under the AA.
Quote from: CypherCrikey. I barely got through cockpit checks and moving off on my first lesson. Thats some cramming. Though he did decide to go somewhere on the other side of town for some reason. I never heard from him again and swiftly changed instructors, though strangely still under the AA.
im getting the feeling that I have a natural knack for it. Just from comments shes made.
Asked me if Ive driven before, or driven on private land. I have no problems with road positioning in fact confidence in double side parked traffic she says is one of my strong points, I can easily judge the size of the car in relation to the gaps, stopping and changing gear is natural, and im the only student that she has that she doesnt have to remind to look at the mirrors all the time.
Said it was refreshing to teach someone who is so easy to teach.
Has recommended 2 hour lessons as she thinks she can get me through this faster that way, and I had no problems absorbing what she did the first 2 hour lesson I had. I think me practicing turns (I do have a problem with the whole no crossing hands thing.. :D so I sat down with a plate in my hand the night before, and turned it by doing the whole passing it through the hands) last week and mentioning it when she said Id really improved in that area, upped her estimations of me somewhat.
Maybe shes bigging me up to keep me on, but im happy with her, and from hearing from friends and their progression... Im happy with the progress im making (ahead of the curve), so really ive no reason to believe that the above isnt all true.
Did another 2 hour lesson today.
Awesome fun.
Did the following:
Major Roundabouts (the evil bastard ones with traffic lights on the roundabout itself, and yellow box junctions).
National Speed Limit (5th gear is fun :))
Town Centre (Clutch control is a bitch!)
And some recap at the beginning of the lesson as the last lesson I had was 5 weeks ago.
Righty...
For the last 2 and a half weeks Ive had a lesson every weekday except wednesdays.
Now completed all manouvers, driving all sorts of nonsense. Been complemented on being generally awesome on everything :) and today will be the day I pop the question "Can I book my test now?" :D Woot.
Need to do a couple lessons and a car test when I get home but I dont want one. Driving a car now makes me angry and Im so happy on a bike even when its sh*t weather :)
Going to need a car for when I get a enduro bike becuase I wont be able to ride it long distance to comps / trails.
Good luck with the final lessons and soon test :)
Looking in this thread I had 6 hours back at the tail end of last year.
then nothing.
Now 10 hours over the last 2 and a half weeks. Reckon that at least qualifies for a 13hr thing so far ;) :D lol wonder if I can do it sub 20.
Woo! Test booked.
19th September. Disappointed as well Driving instructor believes I am ready. Told me to keep looking for tests he said hed like a week just to practice some test routes but other than that Ive picked it up really well.
f**k, taken you long enough chap
Only had 16 hrs of lessons in total. Just left it since January.
Quote from: M3ta7h3adOnly had 16 hrs of lessons in total. Just left it since January.
in that case.. I cant say much. It took me 5 years on & off :oD
Brought forward :) 29th August :D
Holy crap its on friday!
My first driving test attempt was just plain crap, got a crap test route and then found out after i failed the test that the route i did apparently was not a real test route! Great.. i failed the first time on a big roundabout because i drove over the lane line (so she said but i dont think i really did as iv never did that before) and also to top it off i was too late to get into the centre lane to go straight ahead at the roundabout so i was forced to go left and i indicated left and applogised to the examier to correct the problem, again they should of only have me a minor for that at the most but she gave me a major for it probably just to top it off that i failed - 2 majors & 3 minors. Second attempt went much better had a brilliant examiner and the first thing he asked me was what do i do for a living, so really for most of the test we just talked about IT & IT Jobs LOL i could tell he was purely bored as he just sat back and looked like he was going to fall asleep and all in all i was only on the road for 25 mins lol (typical driving test on the road lasts 40 mins most) and at the end he just got the test cert out filled it in and got out of the car lol passed with 5 minors.
Lastly dont believe all that bollocks that some people say about they can only pass people who take there test in the morning & they can only pass a certain ammount of people, both just a myth. anyway good luck M3ta!
Liam
lol thanks liam..
aww crap about the morning thing cause I was banking on that :D lol. My test... 9:30am.
Im hoping I land up in a traffic jam for 38 minutes... the other 2 minutes spent driving out of the test centre into the traffic jam, and driving back into the test centre from the traffic jam.
Nice and easy :D
Quote from: M3ta7h3adlol thanks liam..
aww crap about the morning thing cause I was banking on that :D lol. My test... 9:30am.
Im hoping I land up in a traffic jam for 38 minutes... the other 2 minutes spent driving out of the test centre into the traffic jam, and driving back into the test centre from the traffic jam.
Nice and easy :D
Good luck M3ta7h3ad. My better half has just whizzed through her test, said it was a piece of piss and if she can manage it anyone can! -)
Good luck Rich.
Nailed it! :)
3 Minors. Steering, Gears, Use of Speed.
Grats mate!
Congrats Rich - now you can learn to hate friggin cyclists as much as I do lol!! :rofl: :cheers:
well done mate. best, and worst, thing ever! you can go anywhere, anytime and youll never have any money ever again.
Quote from: DEViANCEwell done mate. best, and worst, thing ever! you can go anywhere, anytime and youll never have any money ever again.
Amen to that.
Well done Rich! Impressive first time with 3 minors :)
bank manager monday & carcraft tuesday eh?
Quote from: RivkidCongrats Rich - now you can learn to hate friggin cyclists as much as I do lol!! :rofl: :cheers:
Nah, its the weekend bikers that are the worst.
Congrats man, now you need a 1.2 Clio, with 17" alloys and a huge exhaust! -)
Quote from: M3ta7h3ad3 Minors. Steering, Gears, Use of Speed.
You approached a 3rd gear corner in 5th and then broke the steering rack trying to get enough lock on to get round it? :mutley:
Actual LOL :lol:
Quote from: Eggtasticobank manager monday & carcraft tuesday eh?
lol not quite.
Company Car insurance forms Monday, Hopefully in a month Ill be driving a nice new 1.6 Ford Focus Style.
lol @ the errors.
Steering = reversing around a corner, I didnt read the road correctly and ended up following the contours of the kerb instead of just going wide and swinging around.
Gears = Came up to a roundabout and forgot Id just put it into first, realised it was clear and put my foot down to go... 7,000 rpm 10mph.
Speed = Country lane... missed the first National Speed limit sign, asked the examiner to confirm the speedlimit and he refused around corner I saw the second sign and sped up to compensate. No cars held up just didnt realise the speed was now 60mph out of a 20mph zone.