tour reports » Germany 2023

Each year we plan a ride over to the continent to visit a friend of mine. He joins on rides out on his trusty Suzuki. Sadly he is suffering from a neurological condition which is affecting his mobility. In an attempt to keep riding he has sold his Suzy and bought a Honda scooter. This means he does not have to use his feet as much, as this is where the illness is at its worse.
I have just booked the ferry from Hull to Rotterdam for mid May.
Cost, this year, for two adults sharing a cabin with buffet meals both ways is £499.80. Slightly up on last year but not by much.
The Hull ferry is not the cheapest crossing but suits our circumstances and location, plus you arrive early and fresh for the ride into Germany.
We've done this for quite a few years now, hopefully my friend Dave can enjoy his scooter for few more years to come.

Alan

He has opted for the Honda Forza 350, new at 6900Euros. Availability seems to be an issue at the moment, as with most things.
I read and watched some reviews, all gave it the thumbs up.


Alan

A few years ago my family and I were on a holiday through Italy (Aussies and in a BMW). We were travelling approx 120kph and were overtaken by a scooter! Changed my impressions.

Having recently returned from our annual trip to Germany, I thought I might share a few observations I made on route.
Petrol is very expensive on the motorways, ranging from 1.94 to 2.20 euros for E5 Super. E10 is 10c cheaper.
We always fill up on this side, the range of the RS means we are well clear of any city and ferry traffic before needing fuel which is about 1.64 to 1.74 in the town.
Diesel is a lot cheaper than petrol over there if you're travelling by other means.
The roads are excellent, as usual, with good surface everywhere.
Speed cameras seem to be coming more prolific in small towns and villages. These have lenses facing both ways. Interestingly, on returning back at Rotterdam we were asked for our registration numbers at immigration. Some buttons were pressed and we were allowed through. I wondered if it was to see if we had been snapped on our journey. I have heard that this is the practice at the French ports with hefty fines before you can proceed.
Solar panels are everywhere, roofs, factories and fields. Any available surface seems to be covered by them. Not so many windmills once you've left the port.
We had a overnight stop in Munster and a trip to the Mohne dam which I have been to before as an air cadet of 16. The newly repaired patch is not visible now as is was then (1970).
The RS performed faultlessly, as did my companions GS and we stayed dry for our 6 days, if not cool at times.
We hope to return next year if my friends health is up to it. His scooter performed well and is great for urban traffic. Might have to get one for local use....

Alan