Again, thanks all - much appreciate advice, thoughts.
So update for those who might be interested:
- I'm not underestimating the level of challenge for my son (or me!) to get his test/ride abroad/camp etc but to some degree, that's a large part of this - to make it a challenge, clear purpose, point of focus, something to feel proud of. His words, not mine. That said, I've biked a lot and in Europe, have a metal shoulder courtesy of an accident, so familiar with the risk which does weigh on me a bit. But I tend to think Europe minor roads, warm weather, dry roads might be a better intro.
- Son has passed CBT Part 1 comfortably. Currently doing figure of 8's in a car park on my old Bandit 600 and he looks good, so aiming for the Part 2 as soon as he's got plenty of practise under his belt
- Tent has been put up in the garden and seems waterproof so far!
- Route plan is now to take 5 weeks to get to Barcelona to meet Mrs A/other son via Germany, top of Italy, bit of France and then Barca. Ambitious or OK?
- Plan to navigate by map (forcing him to plan ahead each day, take control of the route) and then I'll navigate en route via map and a bit of Smartphone (CoPilot app looks good), riding in 45-60min stints on minor roads. I'm keen he stays involved in the route and using a paper map feels a more involved approach?
Any recommendations to good maps to use, and/or Smartphone apps to navigate? The cost of proper motorbike sat navs is horrendous! Looking to plan the route a bit more now.
Comments very welcome!
Take a Haynes manual (am I showing my age) and make sure you can mend a puncture.
As above, riding in France is safer / easier than here / Ireland.
