Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

is there a list anywhere of stuff that is required or recommended, maybe we should make a sticky thread about it as i could do with knowing.

Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

:smt048 cheers

Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

Awwww, thanks guys, this has all been really useful! I'm not a good traveller, but so want to go to Ypes so am going for it.
Already have the number plate done, Mr Lou bought a new CBF a couple of weeks ago so I made sure his plate had GB on, and ordered one for me at the same time which the shop did for free!

I'm going to have a look at the other links now.

Much appreciated.
Lou

Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

Does your bike use oil? - take some.

Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

You could also drop a PM to Tim in Belgium an Org member.

Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

You going to wipers to visit the battlefields?My Grandad was a survivor of that and him talking about it made a big impression on me as a youngster.

Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

Is that near Ypres? :smt102

Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

Just to confirm a couple of things already covered...

Post Office travel insurance does cover bike touring, no size limit. I use an annual policy with them.
You must carry original docs (inc. paper part of licence), a very good idea to also carry copies separately and also keep copies at home.
Must carry spare specs if you wear them.
Hi-vis is a very good idea in case of breakdown.
You don't need to mask off headlight dip, but can if you wish.
DON'T run out of fuel.
ALWAYS have a reasonable amount of cash with you.
Debit cards are usually cheaper for getting cash at ATMs, there are cards with no charges, check your bank if you're that bothered (personally I take a decent amount of cash and just use ATMs if absolutely necessary).
Credit cards aren't viewed the same as in UK in many other countries (Germany esp), I've had probs getting fuel in Germany with "rejected" cards, I think it's just the cost they don't want, hence carry cash.
STOP signs mean stop, not just slow down a BIT.
On-the-spot fines are used, as others advise. Stick to speed limits in towns.
Think twice when leaving petrol stations, that's the most common time to forget to ride on the RIGHT.

Despite all the caveats, it's actually a much nicer experience than riding in many parts of the UK.
Eating out at lunchtime is usually considerably cheaper than in the evening. Fixed menus are usually best value.
Belgian drivers have a reputation for being homicidal maniacs, I couldn't possibly comment.
Don't plan on covering too many miles (km) per day, use smaller roads for enjoyment.
Take it easy and enjoy the experience.

Re: Advice Needed-Taking bike Abroad
 

I'm glad the post office cover bikes now...they didn't when I went over the pond :-(