Some mornings you wake up, look out the window and think, “Nah… not today.” You roll over, pull the duvet back up and convince yourself the bike will still be there tomorrow.
Well, today wasn’t one of those mornings.
The sun was shining, the bike had a full tank of fuel (which, these days, is almost worth taking a photo of), and it was time to meet the usual bunch of reprobates at Dobbies Garden Centre in Stirling for another club run.
Seven members turned up, along with a surprise new member whose name I have completely forgotten already. My memory isn’t what it used to be—but then again, neither are my knees, hips or back. Anyway, a big welcome from all of us. By the next run I’ll either remember your name… or I’ll just call you “pal” like every other Scottish bloke does.
Our route took us through Faslane and on to Dunoon, stopping for lunch at Blairmore Café. The weather was absolutely glorious—proper biking weather. Mind you, when the temperature reached 23°C, it felt less like riding a motorbike and more like sitting in a fan oven wearing a crash helmet.
While enjoying lunch we watched the magnificent Waverley paddle steamer glide into the pier to collect several coach loads of passengers. A beautiful sight… although I’m fairly sure a couple of us were more interested in whether there was any cake left.
Alan kept us entertained with stories about his hearing aids. Or should I say his selective hearing. It’s amazing how he can’t hear his wife asking him to empty the bins, yet he can hear someone quietly whisper “Who’s paying for the tea?” from three tables away.
There was also an unconfirmed report that someone stalled their bike during the day. Naturally, being a supportive and caring motorcycle club, we all agreed not to embarrass the individual by mentioning their name.
Instead, we’ll simply let paranoia do the rest.
Grant has finally announced that he’d like to start organising putting up some bike runs. He’s only been talking about it for several months, so we’ve decided to strike while the iron’s hot. Now that it’s officially in writing, there’ll be no excuses. The pressure is on, Grant.
The roads were absolutely fantastic. Long sweeping bends, stunning scenery and hardly any traffic. It was one of those rides where you forget about everything else and remember exactly why you bought a motorbike in the first place… despite repeatedly telling yourself you weren’t buying another one.
That’s the magic of biking. For a few hours the worries of everyday life disappear. No bills, no chores, no politics—just good roads, good friends and the occasional debate over who’s got the best route planned.
Of course, most of us are officially retired these days, but the moment that helmet goes on we’re all twenty-five again.
Unfortunately, the feeling lasts only until we stop for fuel and try to swing a leg back off the bike without making noises that sound like an old wardrobe being dragged across a wooden floor.
The beauty of our club isn’t just the bikes—it’s the laughs. No one escapes a bit of friendly banter, everyone’s fair game, and somehow every ride produces another story that gets funnier every time it’s told… especially if the person involved isn’t there to defend themselves.
Finally, a huge thank you to Ian McIntosh for organising yet another cracking day out. Great roads, brilliant weather, fantastic company and plenty of laughs. What more could you ask for?
Well… maybe a few degrees cooler, cheaper petrol and a club where nobody ever remembers if they left their indicators on.
Roll on the next adventure. Just remember to bring your bike, your sense of humour… and if you’re the one who stalled it, don’t worry—we’ve almost stopped talking about it.
Run date 08.07.25
David Syme
Great report and what sound like a fantastic run, sorry I missed it. I’d already promised an old mate of mine that I’d go out with him and his mates. Reading the report we had the very same experience, riding bikes with not a care in the world, and the same friendly banter.
You definitely had fantastic weather exploring, what I think is one of the best parts of Scotland. Roll on the next one while this weather lasts and getting the chance to wear mesh gear in Scotland.
Cheers Ian
As you have now stopped talking about me i enjoyed the run and the roads. Missed out on free Waverly cruise.Lunch stop was scenic staff friendly and quick service.
Hi. I’m the mystery member. Chris Lambert’s the name, motorcycling the game! Great run and good company. Weather was superb after the crappy weather so far this year. Sorry, can’t make the run next week as we’re off to Northumberland to celebrate the 49th Anniversary. Thanks Ian for the run and the welcome. Cheers!
Hi Chris ,we look forward to welcoming you on your next club outing
A very entertaining run report David. The icing on the cake of a fun day out that’s more than just about the riding. Thank you for picking up scribe duties (again!).
Thank you too to our compadres on the day – Chris, Alex, Grant, Marcus (our TEC on the day – many thanks), Brian and Alan ‘staller’ Graham (very unfair of you to bring that up David) – hope you all enjoyed our run.
Look forward to the next one GRANT! 😉
…. and to Chris ‘there can be only one’ Lambert, many congratulations on your anniversary! Enjoy your break in Northumberland celebrating.
(Please excuse my Highlander reference Chris, couldn’t help myself 😄).
Very much enjoyed reading your entertaining report David. If you’re ever in need of a literary agent, happy to point you in the right direction. It looks like you had a great time. Lucky you guys, Ian’s runs never disappoint and I am sorry I missed the company and all the fun. Never mind, I am sure there will be more opportunities to join in, particularly if this summery weather holds.
A warm welcome to you Chris.
Thanks Ali 👍🏻