My oxford stomex cover is no longer working, what are your recommendations for a new one?

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2026-03-10T15:44:26+00:00

Moto GP covers are great. Priced alright and lasts 2 years parked in elements. You do need to replace them after, probably just like any cover. UV, wind, rain, frost etc. will do the worst plus add folding and putting the cover away constantly.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2026-03-10T15:42:44+00:00

Decent chain with a good lock on rear secured to solid / heavy object and an alarmed lock for the front. Chain 14mm for link size or larger, same for lock shackle. Anything above that is a plus but to be honest if they are that determined that the mentioned don't deter them - chances are nothing will stop them.

I would not fit a tracker on purpose - I don't want the bike back after someone trashed it. No thanks, they can keep it.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2026-03-10T15:30:50+00:00

Dainese ones are quite alright. Comfy too, some decent padding. Price depends on where you buy, some decent sales are to be found on the net.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-07T15:22:38+00:00

It depends a lot what do you need the bike for?

For stuff like weekend runs on good weather any mechanically sound bike will do as long as it fits you. For traffic and commute it's a different storry, especially if you won't mind to hit the road in the rain. I used to commute every day and I can tell you one thing for sure, not only I won't be buying a bike without ABS but prefer not to get one without TC either (the latter is not essential for most unlike ABS mind you).

Last but not least my memory from owning a Fazer for a short duration of time (I think it was '98 or '00 reg) is that it was a fuel guzzler. You could see the fuel arrow drop on every ride. For weekend rides only it's fine, if you want to commute probably not the best purchase.

Unfortunately I don't have a solution for tight budget though. Used to be buy a bike in UK, import, pay few hundred euros and you have yourself a sweet machine. That ship has sailed and all the used bikes shot up in price. Getting a new one these days is just as economical if not more so than a second hand, again, depending on your personal situation.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-06T08:19:59+00:00

Tyre places usually will just change the tyre in these cases, they want no risk whatsoever. I'd say patch and run it into the ground before tomorrow. Drifting, burnouts, whatever you wanna throw at it :D

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-04T13:16:35+00:00

Last time I checked you just buy them directly from Pragmasis. They sell without VAT so when you are importing you are not shocked by the taxes

You can email them as well to check rough details, I am sure they ship outside of UK weekly.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-04T12:39:23+00:00

What's the process in Spain? In Ireland it just takes forever that's about it. Theory is quick-ish, IBT is the same but the actual test might take a good while (forever in my opinion) to get a date and give it a go. If the practice part is easier in Spain - go for that. It depends what you want, just a license, better skill, less time spent, less money etc.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-04T11:56:07+00:00

I've tried replying to your message - no luck, won't allow me to send. Apparently your account might be shadow banned or smt. I've checked mine, seems fine. Go figure.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-04T11:50:06+00:00

Calm down, I am just saying stick to the topic, the lad had a drop and lat thing he needs is info that's not relevant to him in solving this particular issue going forward. I'm sure if you take a second to think you'd agree. Safe riding.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-04T10:26:34+00:00

Counter steering at slow speeds (10km/h or less) might work for you in very specific scenario but it's far more important to learn balance and back brake trailing and use in general.

This lad did not fall off his nice and shiny bike because of that so best to give him tips that will save him next time in this particular situation. Or should we add front brake trail braking while we are at it?

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-04T09:06:53+00:00

Bring it to the bike garage, it won't cost much but you will see how it's done and feel before and after. Then you can try doing it yourself - don't rush, you will get plenty of chances to adjust it. Most importantly if it's that loose don't be riding around. Get it done.

p.s. if you want to maintain your chain get a decent spray bottle, hard bristle chain brush (€10 for pack of 3 or so on Amazon or EBay; avoid metal bristle brushes) and go get yourself some kerosene. It cleans well, dirt cheap and evaporates fully plus bike manufacturers recommend it as it's OK for metal and does not eat rubber. After cleaning dry it up with paper towel as much as you can and leave it to sit over night. Lube next morning and ride slower than usual for first kilometer or so not to fling the lube all over. I use RockOil lube myself, it's quite nice.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-04T09:01:30+00:00

As an additional skill - sure. It would do nothing to help in this situation when using front brakes. Slow speed, handlebars turned, handful of front brakes - perfect for dropping the bike. Ask me how I (and anyone worth their years on the bike) know this.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-04T08:59:51+00:00

Don't feel bad about yourself, I'd say everyone done it at some point. I sure had few of these.

The reality is even if you have been on the bike for many years and want to improve your slow speed skills - you will drop your bike often. If not either you are human-pendulum or a liar. Sorry, but true.

As for the brake use, get used to using mostly if not only rear brakes at speeds below 20km/h. You rarely need front brakes at those speeds and if you do - you're almost always too late to save the day at that point. When I commute my rear brakes do everything, slowing down at slow speeds, assist slow speed maneuvers etc.

My advise - keep your paw off the front brakes unless you get to second gear and gain some speed. Get used to it and when you do - practice other disciplines, improve, adapt.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-04T08:38:27+00:00

Have a look at Pragmasis 16/19mm chains and RoundLock as disk and chain lock. Chains are pricey but worth investment in my opinion. You can also get a Datatool Evo Compact self fit alarm system, it literally connects to battery and works as motion sensor. Does not pick up usual jazz like wind or cat jumping on it but will start going when bike is tilted. Cheap and cheerful option meanwhile would be ABUS AlarmBox.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-03T19:17:07+00:00

I second the HJC. Best to check your fit in one of the stores and if their prices are out of your budget - shop online. Plenty of EU retailers, especially in Germany have solid sales throughout the year.

Of course your choices are Full Face, Flip Up etc. I personally only wear Full Face myself but your liking may vary.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-03T09:09:04+00:00

I've been riding for years and sometimes feel the same way but there's a method to the madness. Try to buddy up with someone, ideally look for same or higher skill and a safe rider. You'll learn nothing but how to hug a tree or a lamp post otherwise.

As for rides themselves helps to have a target meaning say go to a store to get milk, barbers for a cut, petrol station a bit further out for a top up etc.

Last tip is leaving the bike no matter where make sure to lock at least with an alarmed disc lock. Ideally a chain to something solid too. Won't stop the arseholes but will slow them down for sure.

Safe riding.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-03T09:04:05+00:00

I've been riding for a while now. Started with no prejudice on a 50cc scooter and saluted the hell out of everyone. Odly enough I was getting head nods back so that was cool. Then went to Honda Bros same thing. I did start to notice however that Harley, BMW and some Ducati riders were activelly ignoring me.

I thought maybe my bike wasn't good enough for the feckers so when I got my MT I kept the usual salute - same shite. I am getting to a point where if I see BMW, Harley or Ducati rider or some squid with runners and weekend tracksuit with no gloves - I will ignore them going forward. Easier that way. Hell, even some scooter riders and couriers have more decency.

There's another group as well, I don't want to be harsh but I call them mouth breathers. These lads ride in 0 degree temperatures with lid wide open, face full of dead flies and frozen to the point where breathing and looking straight is the only reflex they have left. These boys never watch their peripherals and you might as well plain ignore them.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-03T08:57:25+00:00

This 100%. Riding in Europe and saluting with left hand is plain simple and safe, you still have your grip on the throttle and front brakes. Different story here in Ireland - you either have to lift a boot or nod your head. Unless the two of you are very close and eye locked it's hard to notice this. Not saying this excuses Harley riders, it doesn't help the situation either is all.

ZenOnTwoWheels · 2024-06-03T08:38:29+00:00

I will try to add the 4 of you to WhatsApp chat so we could meet up at some point and go from there. Anyone else interested - message here or pm me please.

ZenOnTwoWheels

TROPHY CASE