Those who have viewed the video at the end of the previous blog may have noticed that Trixie (the name I've chosen for my trike) has a system which enables the machine to remain upright whilst stationary without the rider's feet touching the ground. It's activated by a switch on the handlebar and can be engaged whilst coming to a complete stop. However, using it could cause a new rider to lose attention and there is a danger of losing balance - and, if that happens before the feet reach the ground, the machine could fall over.
Sadly, that's what happened during my first attempt to establish a relationship with Trixie and, since she's quite a large lady (399cc) and - dare I say it? - quite broad in the beam (see video) I was lucky to get away with little more than bruised ribs, a few scratches, and a dented ego.
Clearly, a re-think was necessary and my motorcycling neighbour (who has access to a nice level piece of land) found some gardening stakes and a couple of old traffic cones to set up a pretty impressive lay-out for a CBT training course.......
In addition to recommending practice - and conscious, perhaps - that it was over half-a-century since I last rode a motorcycle, he suggested I should become re-acquainted with two wheels by starting off with a slightly smaller machine than Trixie - and, to that end, he offered me a little 50cc scooter he uses to get around the grounds he looks after.
It's shown below (click to enlarge) together with another photo demonstrating the fact that I don't visit a barber as often as I used to before retiring. Having said that, I have to say that the sensation of wind blowing through what hair remains is quite pleasant.
After a couple of days practicing on the Peugot, I hope to progress towards being re-introduced to Trixie - confident in the knowledge that, should I lose my balance again, a lawn should be far more forgiving that a tarmacadam surface.
