Building a café racer called „Uschi“
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- LastMohawk
- Billet Alum. Member
- Posts: 237
- Joined: Fri Jun 07, 2013 7:57 am
- Location: Eifel, Germany
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Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Hi there,
it continues with the GL. After years of looking for a rearset - Raask in Sweden had one on the market at the time - I finally got a step further. I just wrote to Mr. Raask in Sweden. A very nice and helpful person. He immediately said that he still had one sentence left on the shelf. Then he wrote me that he still had some spare parts, but no more mounting plates. But he drew me two stencils on cardboard and promised to write me the papers for the German registration. But first I should mill the panels according to his specifications and send him a picture of them. So that he can be sure that they are as he designed them. That is service that is seldom experienced.
In the meantime I got the aluminum plates back from my mechanic. Then I sent the pictures of the built-in state to Mr. Raask in Sweden. He gave the nod and I should send him the mounting plates and he'll put his logo on them and add the documents for the German approval.
Together with Mr. Raask, I will assemble and sell a few more footrest systems.
Here the left side with the HD-Sportster exhaust, which is also held by the mounting plates.
The shift linkage fits great and the transmission can be shifted properly, as far as it is possible when stationary.
The right side with the brake lever is also clean.
Of course, a first seat sample should not be missing. Actually a very comfortable sitting on the wing
And last but not least, when you lean back with a cup of coffee after the work is done and examine what has been achieved again.
I bought the mufflers from a Harley driver who had them dismantled directly on the new vehicle and who had treated herself to fancy accessory pots. So I got hold of two brand new mufflers for 90 euros (100 US $).
so it goes on
greetings Harald
it continues with the GL. After years of looking for a rearset - Raask in Sweden had one on the market at the time - I finally got a step further. I just wrote to Mr. Raask in Sweden. A very nice and helpful person. He immediately said that he still had one sentence left on the shelf. Then he wrote me that he still had some spare parts, but no more mounting plates. But he drew me two stencils on cardboard and promised to write me the papers for the German registration. But first I should mill the panels according to his specifications and send him a picture of them. So that he can be sure that they are as he designed them. That is service that is seldom experienced.
In the meantime I got the aluminum plates back from my mechanic. Then I sent the pictures of the built-in state to Mr. Raask in Sweden. He gave the nod and I should send him the mounting plates and he'll put his logo on them and add the documents for the German approval.
Together with Mr. Raask, I will assemble and sell a few more footrest systems.
Here the left side with the HD-Sportster exhaust, which is also held by the mounting plates.
The shift linkage fits great and the transmission can be shifted properly, as far as it is possible when stationary.
The right side with the brake lever is also clean.
Of course, a first seat sample should not be missing. Actually a very comfortable sitting on the wing
And last but not least, when you lean back with a cup of coffee after the work is done and examine what has been achieved again.
I bought the mufflers from a Harley driver who had them dismantled directly on the new vehicle and who had treated herself to fancy accessory pots. So I got hold of two brand new mufflers for 90 euros (100 US $).
so it goes on
greetings Harald
- desertrefugee
- SUPER BIKER!!!!
- Posts: 3947
- Joined: Fri Nov 11, 2011 9:33 pm
- Location: Chandler, AZ, USA
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Those are nicely crafted! They fit the motorcycle well. At one time, I had entertained trying to put together a set for my 78 and I gave it up. I am not a metal craftsman and parts like those are difficult to find (and expensive if you do). Again, very nice.
- Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass. It's about learning to ride in the rain.
-
- Zinc Member
- Posts: 38
- Joined: Thu Oct 03, 2019 8:47 pm
- Location: NW, Pennsylvania
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
I'm digging the rear sets, nice job. They look great.
- ericheath
- Honored Life Member
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- Joined: Wed Jul 29, 2009 11:20 am
- Location: Winnipeg, Manituba
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Looks comfortable, nice.
Whatever I suggest here should be given ample time for a moderator to delicately correct. I apologize in advance.
77 WING, 1200 engine with 77 heads, cams, gl1100 foot pegs, Magna V65 front end, 764A carbs, [-gone Suzuki M109 monoshock--, replaced with gl1100 shocks] gl 1200 swing arm, gl1500 final drive, wheel and rear brakes Valkyrie seat, Meanstreak tank, Sportster pipes, Power Arc ignition off crank.
77 Wing. black
83 Wing, in pieces
"Continuing education is important even if the subject matter is fairly useless (as in this case)."---Greg Foresi
77 WING, 1200 engine with 77 heads, cams, gl1100 foot pegs, Magna V65 front end, 764A carbs, [-gone Suzuki M109 monoshock--, replaced with gl1100 shocks] gl 1200 swing arm, gl1500 final drive, wheel and rear brakes Valkyrie seat, Meanstreak tank, Sportster pipes, Power Arc ignition off crank.
77 Wing. black
83 Wing, in pieces
"Continuing education is important even if the subject matter is fairly useless (as in this case)."---Greg Foresi
-
- Lead Member
- Posts: 6
- Joined: Sun Oct 24, 2021 11:58 pm
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Beautiful build! By the way, on the throttle, does yours have 2 cables, or just 1 that goes to the carbs? And can we get a close up of the handlebar controls on that side? My '87 has the 2 cable setup and I want to swap controls, but notice that the cables have a fitting that screws into the bottom of the kill/start switch housing
- LastMohawk
- Billet Alum. Member
- Posts: 237
- Joined: Fri Jun 07, 2013 7:57 am
- Location: Eifel, Germany
- Contact:
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Thanks for watching and the responds.
@BigBCC there is only one cable on the throttle. I will pic up some pics of the handlebar controls for you.
I will post the pictures next week, cause Uschi is more than an hour away from here.
I'm IT-specialist working for a software house. My office is at home. I'm not sure if you have heard about the Flood disaster this Juli here in Germany... a little River called Ahr . Much rain created a spring tide in the small river Ahr. Many houses were washed away in many villages along the river and 150 people were killed. Since I live on the mountain, I was spared. Only my internet connection has been destroyed and I can no longer work at home since then. I can only use my house as a weekend house.
But there are many people who were hit much worse, I don't want to complain.
Well, I can take the pictures on Saturday.
greeting Harald
@BigBCC there is only one cable on the throttle. I will pic up some pics of the handlebar controls for you.
I will post the pictures next week, cause Uschi is more than an hour away from here.
I'm IT-specialist working for a software house. My office is at home. I'm not sure if you have heard about the Flood disaster this Juli here in Germany... a little River called Ahr . Much rain created a spring tide in the small river Ahr. Many houses were washed away in many villages along the river and 150 people were killed. Since I live on the mountain, I was spared. Only my internet connection has been destroyed and I can no longer work at home since then. I can only use my house as a weekend house.
But there are many people who were hit much worse, I don't want to complain.
Well, I can take the pictures on Saturday.
greeting Harald
- LastMohawk
- Billet Alum. Member
- Posts: 237
- Joined: Fri Jun 07, 2013 7:57 am
- Location: Eifel, Germany
- Contact:
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Hello everyone,
Since my Uschi is progressing very slowly with the conversion,
I finally managed to finish my travel report for my second trip to Scotland in summer 2022. I didn't go to Scotland with my Goldwing. After all, it's an old boxer from 1977 my BMW R100RS.
The report is getting a little longer and I'm trying to create a section for each day.
Please excuse my bad English, I translated some texts with Google.
I hope you like my travelogue.
Part 1
causion sheeps are crossing or with the BMW R100RS to the British Isles
We wanted to drive once around the land of the Scots, the route should go clockwise. We actually wanted to start this journey 3 years ago. So we booked the ferry and the B&B's and were happy. I was finally able to show my friend Birgit the country that fascinated me so much on my last trip in 2016. Here the link: The last promise or with the Cafe Racer through the Highlands
But then Corona thwarted our plans twice. We had to cancel everything twice and the ferry company recognized the crossing already paid for as a credit.
We finally got a confirmation at the end of 2021 and we were able to plan the trip. Unfortunately, many private B&Bs no longer opened and we therefore had to switch to a number of hotels.
Actually, we wanted to travel with Uschi - a Honda GL1000 that mutated into a cafe racer. But it was not finished and the BMW Caferacer is not suitable for this trip for two. Without further ado we bought a Yamaha FJ 1200 called Horton. But we quickly realized that our ass hurt after 220 miles of tours. Even a specially purchased sheepskin from an Icelandic gray-haired sheep did not bring any noticeable improvement. So the idea germinated that an old BMW RS would be the right vehicle. I know my way around and if the worst comes to the worst, I know where to look. Shortly after Christmas 2021 we were able to get hold of a 1977 BMW R 100 RS with spoked wheels. This machine was then made technically fit, with a GPS mileage speedometer, USB converter, navigation system and digital tachograph as a route recorder and two new tires, made ready for travel. 3100 miles were targeted. Since we had already ridden the tires 630 miles before the start of the trip, I was hoping that the Continental tires would hold up. The roads in the Highlands are very rough and they like to eat rubber.
Actually, I thought that I could play it safe with navigating and bought two navigation systems on e-bay with explicit maps including Great Britain. As it turned out later, it was lucky that I also put the tom-tom navigation routes in an extra WhatsApp group. Arriving in England, both sat navs stop working because the map material was not incl. Great Britain.
It should start on June 27, 2022. Everyone has a saddelbag for themselves and the rain jackets, travel documents and drinks as well as our purses found their place in the tank bag. My toothbrush and soap were in the right side pocket of the tank bag, that was enough.
We had considered taking a new pair of underwear, new socks and a fresh T-shirt with us for every 3 days. That should be enough and when we went to the pub in the evening, we got new clothes just for that purpose. In addition to the leather jeans, each of us both had a pair of trousers in the saddlebag. Since Birgit had to carry a lot of diabetic stuff with her, I gave her some space in my saddlebag for it. Well Birgit still had a small backpack with us, in which we could stow some groceries that we bought on the way.
Here we go
Monday morning 8 a.m everything packed and on time it starts to drizzle very lightly... but it doesn't matter. Scotland here we come.
Quickly took a selfie in the yard for everyone who stayed at home and then jumped on it... km reading at the descent 81000 km (50331 miles) straight ahead.
We drove through Germany to the Dutch border on the A61 motorway. It's no fun cruising through the Lower Rhine if you want to make a route. The motorway is ideal for driving straight through to Venlo/Netherlands. Shortly before the border we filled up the fuel barrel again, because German fuel is currently about 40 to 50 cents (0.4 - 0.5 US$) per liter cheaper than in the neighboring country. Soon we were standing on the ferry across the river Maas. The BMW RS (we still don't have a name for the bike) could already feel what it's like when water sloshes under the wheels. But she coped with it with flying colors.
At Heesch/Netherlands we treated ourselves to a burger. Strengthened it would then continue. At some point the rain started and we decided to spend the last stretch before Amsterdam to IJmuiden on the autobahn. Driving in the rain on national roads in the Netherlands is no fun. Once there, the RS got fresh fuel again, as we thought that it would be even more expensive in England. But it should be a fallacy, is about the same price.
A shower to say goodbye
When we got to the ferry port and were standing in line, it started to rain heavily. Great, just before the protective steel belly we got soaked again.
We wanted to sail across the North Sea with it. But first the passport control. Since October 2021 you need a passport to get to the island. Nobody had spoken of Corvid. Somehow that was no longer an issue, with the exception of a few mask wearers.
It was very tight when we had to lash down the bikes ourselves. At least there were new lashing straps on the side walls. Thanks to the pannier rack and crash bar, the BMW was quickly braced and was thus able to withstand heavy seas. Around us only younger motorcycles like BMW GS1250 and Triumph Tiger. There were no old motorcycles like our RS. Only pitying looks from the drivers of the younger motorcycles, well, they just don't know any better, we said to ourselves.
We quickly found our cabin. I had booked a sea view room. Unfortunately the windows could not be opened. Tight but doable for one night. We left promptly at 5 p.m. After the muggy weather on the vehicle deck, we just wanted to get out into the fresh air. The rain gave way to the sun and so we could watch the departure on deck.
At a bar we treated ourselves to an ice tea and a diet coke... we refrained from eating. Over €30 (US$32) per person, we don't spend that much on food at home either. We still had something to eat in the cabin. The breakfast was delicious and more than sufficient. Who knows what we'll get in England. The day said goodbye on the English Channel with a glorious sunset. Time to visit the bunk and gather strength for tomorrow.
Also the morning sun shining over the North Sea promises a glorious day in Northern England and the Scottish Lowlands. The sea was as smooth as the water in the bathtub at home. You felt almost no swell. Now off to breakfast and packed our bags again. Then we were allowed to go to the motorbike and loosen the lines. At some point the ferry opened its mouth and the RS was allowed to drive left around the first roundabout. Worked amazingly well.
And that was our route on day 1 to the ferry
next Part 2 and the first day in Great Britain
hope you enjoy my diary and you can see the pictures
Harald
Since my Uschi is progressing very slowly with the conversion,
I finally managed to finish my travel report for my second trip to Scotland in summer 2022. I didn't go to Scotland with my Goldwing. After all, it's an old boxer from 1977 my BMW R100RS.
The report is getting a little longer and I'm trying to create a section for each day.
Please excuse my bad English, I translated some texts with Google.
I hope you like my travelogue.
Part 1
causion sheeps are crossing or with the BMW R100RS to the British Isles
We wanted to drive once around the land of the Scots, the route should go clockwise. We actually wanted to start this journey 3 years ago. So we booked the ferry and the B&B's and were happy. I was finally able to show my friend Birgit the country that fascinated me so much on my last trip in 2016. Here the link: The last promise or with the Cafe Racer through the Highlands
But then Corona thwarted our plans twice. We had to cancel everything twice and the ferry company recognized the crossing already paid for as a credit.
We finally got a confirmation at the end of 2021 and we were able to plan the trip. Unfortunately, many private B&Bs no longer opened and we therefore had to switch to a number of hotels.
Actually, we wanted to travel with Uschi - a Honda GL1000 that mutated into a cafe racer. But it was not finished and the BMW Caferacer is not suitable for this trip for two. Without further ado we bought a Yamaha FJ 1200 called Horton. But we quickly realized that our ass hurt after 220 miles of tours. Even a specially purchased sheepskin from an Icelandic gray-haired sheep did not bring any noticeable improvement. So the idea germinated that an old BMW RS would be the right vehicle. I know my way around and if the worst comes to the worst, I know where to look. Shortly after Christmas 2021 we were able to get hold of a 1977 BMW R 100 RS with spoked wheels. This machine was then made technically fit, with a GPS mileage speedometer, USB converter, navigation system and digital tachograph as a route recorder and two new tires, made ready for travel. 3100 miles were targeted. Since we had already ridden the tires 630 miles before the start of the trip, I was hoping that the Continental tires would hold up. The roads in the Highlands are very rough and they like to eat rubber.
Actually, I thought that I could play it safe with navigating and bought two navigation systems on e-bay with explicit maps including Great Britain. As it turned out later, it was lucky that I also put the tom-tom navigation routes in an extra WhatsApp group. Arriving in England, both sat navs stop working because the map material was not incl. Great Britain.
It should start on June 27, 2022. Everyone has a saddelbag for themselves and the rain jackets, travel documents and drinks as well as our purses found their place in the tank bag. My toothbrush and soap were in the right side pocket of the tank bag, that was enough.
We had considered taking a new pair of underwear, new socks and a fresh T-shirt with us for every 3 days. That should be enough and when we went to the pub in the evening, we got new clothes just for that purpose. In addition to the leather jeans, each of us both had a pair of trousers in the saddlebag. Since Birgit had to carry a lot of diabetic stuff with her, I gave her some space in my saddlebag for it. Well Birgit still had a small backpack with us, in which we could stow some groceries that we bought on the way.
Here we go
Monday morning 8 a.m everything packed and on time it starts to drizzle very lightly... but it doesn't matter. Scotland here we come.
Quickly took a selfie in the yard for everyone who stayed at home and then jumped on it... km reading at the descent 81000 km (50331 miles) straight ahead.
We drove through Germany to the Dutch border on the A61 motorway. It's no fun cruising through the Lower Rhine if you want to make a route. The motorway is ideal for driving straight through to Venlo/Netherlands. Shortly before the border we filled up the fuel barrel again, because German fuel is currently about 40 to 50 cents (0.4 - 0.5 US$) per liter cheaper than in the neighboring country. Soon we were standing on the ferry across the river Maas. The BMW RS (we still don't have a name for the bike) could already feel what it's like when water sloshes under the wheels. But she coped with it with flying colors.
At Heesch/Netherlands we treated ourselves to a burger. Strengthened it would then continue. At some point the rain started and we decided to spend the last stretch before Amsterdam to IJmuiden on the autobahn. Driving in the rain on national roads in the Netherlands is no fun. Once there, the RS got fresh fuel again, as we thought that it would be even more expensive in England. But it should be a fallacy, is about the same price.
A shower to say goodbye
When we got to the ferry port and were standing in line, it started to rain heavily. Great, just before the protective steel belly we got soaked again.
We wanted to sail across the North Sea with it. But first the passport control. Since October 2021 you need a passport to get to the island. Nobody had spoken of Corvid. Somehow that was no longer an issue, with the exception of a few mask wearers.
It was very tight when we had to lash down the bikes ourselves. At least there were new lashing straps on the side walls. Thanks to the pannier rack and crash bar, the BMW was quickly braced and was thus able to withstand heavy seas. Around us only younger motorcycles like BMW GS1250 and Triumph Tiger. There were no old motorcycles like our RS. Only pitying looks from the drivers of the younger motorcycles, well, they just don't know any better, we said to ourselves.
We quickly found our cabin. I had booked a sea view room. Unfortunately the windows could not be opened. Tight but doable for one night. We left promptly at 5 p.m. After the muggy weather on the vehicle deck, we just wanted to get out into the fresh air. The rain gave way to the sun and so we could watch the departure on deck.
At a bar we treated ourselves to an ice tea and a diet coke... we refrained from eating. Over €30 (US$32) per person, we don't spend that much on food at home either. We still had something to eat in the cabin. The breakfast was delicious and more than sufficient. Who knows what we'll get in England. The day said goodbye on the English Channel with a glorious sunset. Time to visit the bunk and gather strength for tomorrow.
Also the morning sun shining over the North Sea promises a glorious day in Northern England and the Scottish Lowlands. The sea was as smooth as the water in the bathtub at home. You felt almost no swell. Now off to breakfast and packed our bags again. Then we were allowed to go to the motorbike and loosen the lines. At some point the ferry opened its mouth and the RS was allowed to drive left around the first roundabout. Worked amazingly well.
And that was our route on day 1 to the ferry
next Part 2 and the first day in Great Britain
hope you enjoy my diary and you can see the pictures
Harald
- LastMohawk
- Billet Alum. Member
- Posts: 237
- Joined: Fri Jun 07, 2013 7:57 am
- Location: Eifel, Germany
- Contact:
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
2nd day
Suddenly without navigation
Only the Tom-Tom navigation device I mentioned at the beginning refused to work. Contrary to the seller's statement that the UK is on the cards (Europe 42 countries Tom-Tom calls that), only Central Europe was found on one and only South Europe on the other. What a letdown. Well, I have to blame myself, I didn't check it at home when I copied the routes and the B&B addresses. At least I had saved the routes again using Google Maps and sent Birgit via WhatsApp. Unfortunately, Google Maps cannot navigate with its own routes. Good advice was expensive now. Luckily I found an LTE network in Newcastle and we hoped that Birgit's daughter Anna would have the time and leisure to find us a solution on the PC. She then also found a way to convert the Google routes online into a common GPX format. So I loaded two navigation apps onto my cell phone and checked what works better. Then downloaded the maps of England and Scotland so that we could navigate without an internet connection.
But as already established in 2016, navigating with a mobile phone – without a holder – only with a tank bag sucks. When it rains, the cover of the tank bag fogs up and you can no longer read the sat nav... when it's sunny, the cell phone simply gets too hot. And every now and then the transparent cover of the backpack thinks it wants to play with the cell phone and then the navigation system has ended.
After half an hour we were able to find an ATM and let our first £ notes out. We also bought some food and drink for the trip across the British Isles.
Hilly landscapes and through the middle of the quarry
In the north of England we found small roads that led us through a hilly landscape, always heading north to the border with Scotland. We came through cute villages and drove over small old bridges. It was really fun to drive here. From time to time we passed a construction site. But these were set up in such a way that we never had to take a detour.
Halfway on the way to the Scottish border, the navigation system said I had to turn right. Well, it's also a good place to dispose of the Diet Coke. It was a small road with good asphalt. Two or three construction trucks passed us as we stood on the side of the road. So we decided to follow the road. Suddenly a quarry and gravel works appeared in front of us. It was impressive to see what they dug out of the ground. When the road made a left turn, we suddenly found ourselves in front of the entrance to the quarry... the road surface changed from asphalt to gravel to hard-packed ground... luckily it was dry. The navigation system still said we had to go through there. So past the excavators and administration buildings. After a right turn, I should then take a small path down to the left. Well why not. Well, when we arrived at the bottom, we saw the road to the next village. Only in between was a closed barrier, with no possibility to drive past it with a motorcycle.
Birgit got off the motorbike and discovered a security camera. She kindly waved into the lens and someone opened the barrier. We said thank you and drove on to the next village.
As the trip progressed, we kept asking ourselves: "Is there another quarry coming up?" well, the quarry was child's play in contrast to one or the other situation that was to follow.
In the further course we enjoyed the landscape in northern England and we hoped to get closer to our intermediate destination, the border with Scotland.
The road meandered along the river Tyne until it was well developed at the Kielter Water Sea and invited to a somewhat faster pace.
Scotland at last
Passing Kershop Castle we saw the long awaited sign at Deadwater. Finally we have reached the country we wanted to visit and explore. The sign is the Welcome Sign, of the Scottish Bordes District.
Anyway, a short rest and a sip from the bottle with the view of rolling grassy hills with small streets winding around the hills.
Unfortunately, the sun left us and the sky became fresh and cloudy.
We continued to the town of Hawick and treated the RS to some fresh fuel from the Gulf column. In town we found a nice cafe that promised hot dogs and coffee. Well Birgit took a coke because she doesn't drink coffee.
When we came out of the cafe, a man was standing by the motorcycle and was looking at it with interest. We then got talking and he wanted to know how old the BMW is and how long we've been in his country. We had these conversations very often. People like the old motorcycles, but apparently not many riders dare to go on tour with the old irons anymore. Pity.
Then back in the saddle and out of the hustle and bustle of the small town... we would have loved to ride towards the sun, unfortunately it started to drizzle, which quickly turned to rain.
In Mofat we headed for the gas station to leave the coffee and coke there and of course to get dry under the protection of the gas station roof.
Since we had booked our hotel on an island, we still had to catch our booked ferry… but it was still quite a few miles to Glasgow before we got there. Since it was raining heavily anyway, we quickly drove the RS over the A74 and A76. Both highway-like roads. Luckily, the RS doesn't tend to aquaplan and the Contis grip well in the wet. So hurry towards the ferry.
Sometimes you have to be lucky
It got exciting as we arrived 10 minutes behind the latest check-in at the ferry terminal in Ardrossan. But the very friendly girl at the counter just said: "No problem, the ship is not yet in port". She waved us through and asked us to drive all the way to the front
A nice man tied up the RS on the ferry and we were able to eat on deck. The crossing to Arran takes about 90 minutes.
Finally on the island. Arrived on Arran we drove directly to our hotel. It was right on the coast and we had a wonderful view of the Atlantic. The fish was very tasty and the waiter smiled when Birgit poured diet coke into her lager beer. It was always amusing how people looked at each other in amazement as they ordered a half pint of lager in a pint glass and then a can of Diet Coke.
And that was our route today from the North Sea in the east to the Atlantic in the west. ... We were very happy and full in bed and Birgit was happy, the landlord speaks German.
3rd day
Always by the water. Wednesday on the Isle of Arran.. the view out the window promises it will be dry for at least a while. Entry in the travel diary:
The weather is getting nicer today...
After we had filled up, a tour around the Isle of Arran was announced. A dream of a road that meandered around the island like a roller coaster. we can recommend them unreservedly... including the hotel. The Corrie Hotel.
In fact, the coast road was without a doubt one of the top ten we drove in Scotland. It may also be due to the fact that we were allowed to circle the island today in bright sunshine.
Again and again we had to stop and enjoy the landscape and the view. We found a lot of old cemeteries with old partly ruined churches in them. Like here right on the coast road.
And another example of an old abandoned church.
Since we were on an island, we had to leave it by ship again... so we continued to Lochranza to catch the ferry to Cloanaig there. Promptly she was already up and away and we had time for a sandwich. There was a small sandwich station next to the ferry terminal. Just stupid if you don't read the menu properly and have to eat warm sweet potatoes on bread. At least it satisfies hunger.
Luckily there are protective bars. On the ferry we had to find out again that the first series of the RS had a side stand that was much too long. When dismounting to pay, the BMW overturned on its right side. But nothing happened and we quickly had them back on the main stand. But in the days that followed, we paid close attention to whether it stayed on the side stand or tended to tip over.
continued with the ferry from the island. Always further north to drive on these narrow endless forest roads again. We then crossed over in Tabbert to make our way to Loch Lommond.
A warm welcome. The landscape becomes wilder and the mountains higher. The weather was great and it started raining just 10 miles from the finish. But then it stopped again when we turned onto the farm. The welcome at Shandon Farm was very warm and we chatted about my stay 6 years ago.
Jane, the farmer's wife, was happy that the visit finally worked out. She was also happy that I had someone by my side again and said I looked happy again. How right she is. After we had stowed our luggage in the room, we decided to eat our evening meal at the lake. We bought something to eat and drink in the small Spar supermarket and then drove to the shore.
A new tower. We found the place where I had built the tower with Sabine's picture six years ago without any problems. Also some of the stones I had used were still there. We even found the top stone on which I had stuck her picture. The lake (sorry in Scotland the lake is called Loch) has only taken the picture itself. So we rebuilt the tower in glorious sunshine.
We think Sabine was so happy that she sent us the warm rays of sunshine from above after the downpour over the last 10 miles. It felt so good to feel the warmth on the black leather.
And so we set about rebuilding the tower. So her picture can look over this wonderful lake again. She had always dreamed of standing on the banks of Loch Lomond..
At home I had practiced on my harmonica to play the Runrig song Loch Lomond for her. Luckily the other bathers were far away and didn't have to endure my interpretation.
Afterwards we enjoyed our sandwiches and our cola and also treated ourselves to something sweet. It's good to know that we managed to get Sabine's picture looking out over the water again and that we can now discover the beautiful country for ourselves.
After reviewing the day, we fell into our beds tired but happy and looked forward to a night on this beautiful and quiet farm.
And that was the route we took. It was at least 220 miles
Suddenly without navigation
Only the Tom-Tom navigation device I mentioned at the beginning refused to work. Contrary to the seller's statement that the UK is on the cards (Europe 42 countries Tom-Tom calls that), only Central Europe was found on one and only South Europe on the other. What a letdown. Well, I have to blame myself, I didn't check it at home when I copied the routes and the B&B addresses. At least I had saved the routes again using Google Maps and sent Birgit via WhatsApp. Unfortunately, Google Maps cannot navigate with its own routes. Good advice was expensive now. Luckily I found an LTE network in Newcastle and we hoped that Birgit's daughter Anna would have the time and leisure to find us a solution on the PC. She then also found a way to convert the Google routes online into a common GPX format. So I loaded two navigation apps onto my cell phone and checked what works better. Then downloaded the maps of England and Scotland so that we could navigate without an internet connection.
But as already established in 2016, navigating with a mobile phone – without a holder – only with a tank bag sucks. When it rains, the cover of the tank bag fogs up and you can no longer read the sat nav... when it's sunny, the cell phone simply gets too hot. And every now and then the transparent cover of the backpack thinks it wants to play with the cell phone and then the navigation system has ended.
After half an hour we were able to find an ATM and let our first £ notes out. We also bought some food and drink for the trip across the British Isles.
Hilly landscapes and through the middle of the quarry
In the north of England we found small roads that led us through a hilly landscape, always heading north to the border with Scotland. We came through cute villages and drove over small old bridges. It was really fun to drive here. From time to time we passed a construction site. But these were set up in such a way that we never had to take a detour.
Halfway on the way to the Scottish border, the navigation system said I had to turn right. Well, it's also a good place to dispose of the Diet Coke. It was a small road with good asphalt. Two or three construction trucks passed us as we stood on the side of the road. So we decided to follow the road. Suddenly a quarry and gravel works appeared in front of us. It was impressive to see what they dug out of the ground. When the road made a left turn, we suddenly found ourselves in front of the entrance to the quarry... the road surface changed from asphalt to gravel to hard-packed ground... luckily it was dry. The navigation system still said we had to go through there. So past the excavators and administration buildings. After a right turn, I should then take a small path down to the left. Well why not. Well, when we arrived at the bottom, we saw the road to the next village. Only in between was a closed barrier, with no possibility to drive past it with a motorcycle.
Birgit got off the motorbike and discovered a security camera. She kindly waved into the lens and someone opened the barrier. We said thank you and drove on to the next village.
As the trip progressed, we kept asking ourselves: "Is there another quarry coming up?" well, the quarry was child's play in contrast to one or the other situation that was to follow.
In the further course we enjoyed the landscape in northern England and we hoped to get closer to our intermediate destination, the border with Scotland.
The road meandered along the river Tyne until it was well developed at the Kielter Water Sea and invited to a somewhat faster pace.
Scotland at last
Passing Kershop Castle we saw the long awaited sign at Deadwater. Finally we have reached the country we wanted to visit and explore. The sign is the Welcome Sign, of the Scottish Bordes District.
Anyway, a short rest and a sip from the bottle with the view of rolling grassy hills with small streets winding around the hills.
Unfortunately, the sun left us and the sky became fresh and cloudy.
We continued to the town of Hawick and treated the RS to some fresh fuel from the Gulf column. In town we found a nice cafe that promised hot dogs and coffee. Well Birgit took a coke because she doesn't drink coffee.
When we came out of the cafe, a man was standing by the motorcycle and was looking at it with interest. We then got talking and he wanted to know how old the BMW is and how long we've been in his country. We had these conversations very often. People like the old motorcycles, but apparently not many riders dare to go on tour with the old irons anymore. Pity.
Then back in the saddle and out of the hustle and bustle of the small town... we would have loved to ride towards the sun, unfortunately it started to drizzle, which quickly turned to rain.
In Mofat we headed for the gas station to leave the coffee and coke there and of course to get dry under the protection of the gas station roof.
Since we had booked our hotel on an island, we still had to catch our booked ferry… but it was still quite a few miles to Glasgow before we got there. Since it was raining heavily anyway, we quickly drove the RS over the A74 and A76. Both highway-like roads. Luckily, the RS doesn't tend to aquaplan and the Contis grip well in the wet. So hurry towards the ferry.
Sometimes you have to be lucky
It got exciting as we arrived 10 minutes behind the latest check-in at the ferry terminal in Ardrossan. But the very friendly girl at the counter just said: "No problem, the ship is not yet in port". She waved us through and asked us to drive all the way to the front
A nice man tied up the RS on the ferry and we were able to eat on deck. The crossing to Arran takes about 90 minutes.
Finally on the island. Arrived on Arran we drove directly to our hotel. It was right on the coast and we had a wonderful view of the Atlantic. The fish was very tasty and the waiter smiled when Birgit poured diet coke into her lager beer. It was always amusing how people looked at each other in amazement as they ordered a half pint of lager in a pint glass and then a can of Diet Coke.
And that was our route today from the North Sea in the east to the Atlantic in the west. ... We were very happy and full in bed and Birgit was happy, the landlord speaks German.
3rd day
Always by the water. Wednesday on the Isle of Arran.. the view out the window promises it will be dry for at least a while. Entry in the travel diary:
The weather is getting nicer today...
After we had filled up, a tour around the Isle of Arran was announced. A dream of a road that meandered around the island like a roller coaster. we can recommend them unreservedly... including the hotel. The Corrie Hotel.
In fact, the coast road was without a doubt one of the top ten we drove in Scotland. It may also be due to the fact that we were allowed to circle the island today in bright sunshine.
Again and again we had to stop and enjoy the landscape and the view. We found a lot of old cemeteries with old partly ruined churches in them. Like here right on the coast road.
And another example of an old abandoned church.
Since we were on an island, we had to leave it by ship again... so we continued to Lochranza to catch the ferry to Cloanaig there. Promptly she was already up and away and we had time for a sandwich. There was a small sandwich station next to the ferry terminal. Just stupid if you don't read the menu properly and have to eat warm sweet potatoes on bread. At least it satisfies hunger.
Luckily there are protective bars. On the ferry we had to find out again that the first series of the RS had a side stand that was much too long. When dismounting to pay, the BMW overturned on its right side. But nothing happened and we quickly had them back on the main stand. But in the days that followed, we paid close attention to whether it stayed on the side stand or tended to tip over.
continued with the ferry from the island. Always further north to drive on these narrow endless forest roads again. We then crossed over in Tabbert to make our way to Loch Lommond.
A warm welcome. The landscape becomes wilder and the mountains higher. The weather was great and it started raining just 10 miles from the finish. But then it stopped again when we turned onto the farm. The welcome at Shandon Farm was very warm and we chatted about my stay 6 years ago.
Jane, the farmer's wife, was happy that the visit finally worked out. She was also happy that I had someone by my side again and said I looked happy again. How right she is. After we had stowed our luggage in the room, we decided to eat our evening meal at the lake. We bought something to eat and drink in the small Spar supermarket and then drove to the shore.
A new tower. We found the place where I had built the tower with Sabine's picture six years ago without any problems. Also some of the stones I had used were still there. We even found the top stone on which I had stuck her picture. The lake (sorry in Scotland the lake is called Loch) has only taken the picture itself. So we rebuilt the tower in glorious sunshine.
We think Sabine was so happy that she sent us the warm rays of sunshine from above after the downpour over the last 10 miles. It felt so good to feel the warmth on the black leather.
And so we set about rebuilding the tower. So her picture can look over this wonderful lake again. She had always dreamed of standing on the banks of Loch Lomond..
At home I had practiced on my harmonica to play the Runrig song Loch Lomond for her. Luckily the other bathers were far away and didn't have to endure my interpretation.
Afterwards we enjoyed our sandwiches and our cola and also treated ourselves to something sweet. It's good to know that we managed to get Sabine's picture looking out over the water again and that we can now discover the beautiful country for ourselves.
After reviewing the day, we fell into our beds tired but happy and looked forward to a night on this beautiful and quiet farm.
And that was the route we took. It was at least 220 miles
- LastMohawk
- Billet Alum. Member
- Posts: 237
- Joined: Fri Jun 07, 2013 7:57 am
- Location: Eifel, Germany
- Contact:
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
4th day
Thursday... Some sneezing this morning. It's heading towards the Isle of Skye and that's the plan.
Lots of forest and gravel roads
First we're off Loch Lomond into a reforestation project... you can buy a square inch of Scotland and the money goes straight into the forest. They have created a 7 to 10 mile trail where you can drive through the forest and see 3 lakes. You can camp wild there.. here are pictures of the path... it was just gravel.
Passing Loch Lubnaig we continued to Tyndrum to the Green Welly Stop, the most famous biker meeting place in Scotland. It started to drizzle and we treated the BMW to fresh fuel and we both had something to eat and drink. The RS also received a Green Wally stop sticker.
The Highlands are getting closer
When a gray wall came towards us from the north, we saddled our RS again and didn't suspect anything good. But whatever, we had to move on. After about 2 miles the downpour came, but it couldn't stop us. Shortly before the Glencoe Mountain Resort it got dry again and we made good progress. Then Birgit held her breath as we entered the first gorge in the Highlands. The Altnafeadh showed itself from its most beautiful side and to the right and left the mountains towered high above us.
These impressions could kill us at first. After the passage we crossed Loch Leven and let the RS roll along to Fort Williams.
Enchanted Muggle Moments …
After Fort Williams we turned left for the ferry to the Isle of Skye. The road meandered along Loch Eil until we stood in Glenfinnan's car park and could take a look at the famous viaduct. Unfortunately, the train is already over and so the empty bridge remains.
Since we still had the ferry check-in date on our backs, we let the RS run towards Mallaig again.
At some point Birgit nudged me and yelled: "over there on the right, the Hoghwarts Express". In fact, right next to us, the famous Jacobite Steam Train locomotive steamed toward our common destination.
As the RS moved north easily, we arrived at Mallaig ahead of the train. Straight to the ferry and check-in. I idiot had unfortunately the ferry tickets for 2021 and we were in the right place, but at the wrong time. The friendly gentleman with the clipboard asked me to go to the counter and there I was able to buy one of the coveted tickets for a crossing. In the end we only had an hour's stay.
While I was booking the crossing, Birgit watched the steam train pull into the station behind us. This is only 2 houses away from the ferry port. So we put the RS on hold and off to the train station.
Unfortunately no Gryffindors got off the train. So we had plenty of time to take photos.
On the way back to the ferry we had ice cream and a Scottish musician played the melody of the film Last of the Mohicans on his bagpipes. One of my favorite songs.
Then finally on the ferry to the Isle of Skye, to Armadale and from there to our destination of Saucy Mary Lodge in Keyleakin.
Ferry to the Isle of Skye.. On the ferry and on Skye blue skies and 24 degrees Celcius and a blue Atlantic. On the Isle of Skye then the most wonderful weather and blue sea.
Arrived at the hostel, we got a nice room with a private bathroom where we first took a shower. We were able to store Birgit's insulin in the communal fridge. After we had reserved a table in the pub, we stretched our feet and explored the small town on the coast. Birgit collected sea shells and snail shells.
In the pub there was a delicious cider and a delicious beer. We also liked the food very much. We can recommend this pub.
Let's take a look at the route we covered today. It was a varied and exciting trip that gave us so many impressions.
next the 5th day an day one on the Isle of Skye
I hope you are not bored of the story
to be continued
Harald
Thursday... Some sneezing this morning. It's heading towards the Isle of Skye and that's the plan.
Lots of forest and gravel roads
First we're off Loch Lomond into a reforestation project... you can buy a square inch of Scotland and the money goes straight into the forest. They have created a 7 to 10 mile trail where you can drive through the forest and see 3 lakes. You can camp wild there.. here are pictures of the path... it was just gravel.
Passing Loch Lubnaig we continued to Tyndrum to the Green Welly Stop, the most famous biker meeting place in Scotland. It started to drizzle and we treated the BMW to fresh fuel and we both had something to eat and drink. The RS also received a Green Wally stop sticker.
The Highlands are getting closer
When a gray wall came towards us from the north, we saddled our RS again and didn't suspect anything good. But whatever, we had to move on. After about 2 miles the downpour came, but it couldn't stop us. Shortly before the Glencoe Mountain Resort it got dry again and we made good progress. Then Birgit held her breath as we entered the first gorge in the Highlands. The Altnafeadh showed itself from its most beautiful side and to the right and left the mountains towered high above us.
These impressions could kill us at first. After the passage we crossed Loch Leven and let the RS roll along to Fort Williams.
Enchanted Muggle Moments …
After Fort Williams we turned left for the ferry to the Isle of Skye. The road meandered along Loch Eil until we stood in Glenfinnan's car park and could take a look at the famous viaduct. Unfortunately, the train is already over and so the empty bridge remains.
Since we still had the ferry check-in date on our backs, we let the RS run towards Mallaig again.
At some point Birgit nudged me and yelled: "over there on the right, the Hoghwarts Express". In fact, right next to us, the famous Jacobite Steam Train locomotive steamed toward our common destination.
As the RS moved north easily, we arrived at Mallaig ahead of the train. Straight to the ferry and check-in. I idiot had unfortunately the ferry tickets for 2021 and we were in the right place, but at the wrong time. The friendly gentleman with the clipboard asked me to go to the counter and there I was able to buy one of the coveted tickets for a crossing. In the end we only had an hour's stay.
While I was booking the crossing, Birgit watched the steam train pull into the station behind us. This is only 2 houses away from the ferry port. So we put the RS on hold and off to the train station.
Unfortunately no Gryffindors got off the train. So we had plenty of time to take photos.
On the way back to the ferry we had ice cream and a Scottish musician played the melody of the film Last of the Mohicans on his bagpipes. One of my favorite songs.
Then finally on the ferry to the Isle of Skye, to Armadale and from there to our destination of Saucy Mary Lodge in Keyleakin.
Ferry to the Isle of Skye.. On the ferry and on Skye blue skies and 24 degrees Celcius and a blue Atlantic. On the Isle of Skye then the most wonderful weather and blue sea.
Arrived at the hostel, we got a nice room with a private bathroom where we first took a shower. We were able to store Birgit's insulin in the communal fridge. After we had reserved a table in the pub, we stretched our feet and explored the small town on the coast. Birgit collected sea shells and snail shells.
In the pub there was a delicious cider and a delicious beer. We also liked the food very much. We can recommend this pub.
Let's take a look at the route we covered today. It was a varied and exciting trip that gave us so many impressions.
next the 5th day an day one on the Isle of Skye
I hope you are not bored of the story
to be continued
Harald
- CYBORG
- Moderator
- Posts: 24684
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2008 12:52 pm
- Location: Muskegon mich
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Love the pictures. Makes me want to go
1978 custom GL1000
1977 custom with 1200 engine
1985 gl1200
1977 custom with 1200 engine
1985 gl1200
- Rat
- Photo Gallery Admin
- Posts: 15656
- Joined: Fri Oct 21, 2005 9:59 pm
- My Album: https://www.ngwclub.com/gallery/v/wingmans/rat/
- RIP: cookie, KyPM, Roady
- Location: Toronto .... Canada
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Wonderful … thanks for taking us along …
Gord
Gord
"I'd rather Ride than Shine"
‘14 KLR650 ... not a rat ... yet
‘84 GL1200i ‘R2B6' (Rat to Be 6, the last, adopted by twowings)
My Original 'RAT' was a hybrid '82 CB900/1100F
‘14 KLR650 ... not a rat ... yet
‘84 GL1200i ‘R2B6' (Rat to Be 6, the last, adopted by twowings)
My Original 'RAT' was a hybrid '82 CB900/1100F
- Fred Camper
- Vice President
- Posts: 7071
- Joined: Wed Aug 12, 2009 9:38 pm
- My Album: http://www.ngwclub.com/gallery/v/wingmans/Jeff+Bozeman/
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- Contact:
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Wow, almost feel like I was there, but my wallet says I did not go. Love all the detail. Wow!!
Proud member of the NGW Cartel (Rochester MI)
1977 GL1000 BADDOG (April 2012 BOTM)
1976 LTD - '993 LTD...and so it begins'
You should remember that it's peace of mind you're after and not just fixing the machine. R.Pirsig
1977 GL1000 BADDOG (April 2012 BOTM)
1976 LTD - '993 LTD...and so it begins'
You should remember that it's peace of mind you're after and not just fixing the machine. R.Pirsig
- Chainman
- Titanium Member
- Posts: 314
- Joined: Thu Nov 07, 2019 10:25 am
- Location: Oak Island NC USA
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Thank you for sharing your story and gorgeous photos
1975 GL1000
- Whiskerfish
- President
- Posts: 37474
- Joined: Thu Feb 16, 2006 9:34 pm
- My Album: http://www.ngwclub.com/gallery/v/wingmans/whiskerfish/
- Location: Norfolk Va
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Just fantastic!! Thanks I am enjoying it very much!
"Agreement is not a requirement for Respect" CDR Michael Smith USN (Ret) 2017
"The book is wrong, this whole Conclusion is Fallacious" River Tam
"Yea I do dance awkwardly, and I am having more fun than you" Taylor Swift
2008 GL1800 IIIA "TH3DOG"
1984 GL1200 Standard
1975/6/7/8/9 Arthur Fulmer Dressed Road bike
1975 Naked Noisy and Nasty in town bike
Psst. oh and by the way CHANGE YOUR BELTS!!!!
"The book is wrong, this whole Conclusion is Fallacious" River Tam
"Yea I do dance awkwardly, and I am having more fun than you" Taylor Swift
2008 GL1800 IIIA "TH3DOG"
1984 GL1200 Standard
1975/6/7/8/9 Arthur Fulmer Dressed Road bike
1975 Naked Noisy and Nasty in town bike
Psst. oh and by the way CHANGE YOUR BELTS!!!!
- Rednaxs60
- Gold Member
- Posts: 1006
- Joined: Mon Nov 30, 2015 11:14 pm
- Location: Victoria, BC, Canada
Re: Building a café racer called „Uschi“
Great trip, jealous. This fellow took his 1000 on an Iron Butt ride in 2017, worked well, no maintenance/break down issues. Very reliable bikes:
"When writing the Story of your life, don't let anyone else hold the pen."
Ernest
1985 GL1200 Limited Edition
2014 Can-Am Spyder RT LE
2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan
1995 GL1500 SE CDN Edition (sold)
2012 Suzuki DL1000 VStrom (sold)
Ontario 1985 GL1200 Limited Edition (sold)
2008 GL1800 (sold)
Ernest
1985 GL1200 Limited Edition
2014 Can-Am Spyder RT LE
2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan
1995 GL1500 SE CDN Edition (sold)
2012 Suzuki DL1000 VStrom (sold)
Ontario 1985 GL1200 Limited Edition (sold)
2008 GL1800 (sold)
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