Lowered suspension, extremely low profile tyres and huge Brembo brakes are not uncommon sights on these beasts, so given the rarity of our big bikes, they proved to be something of a curiosity among the locals. When our friend Men (pronounced Min) tried my CB500, he nearly toppled over as his flip-flops slipped on the sandy floor of the parking area. The look of horror as he came close to dropping the heavy machine did not quickly fade and he handed it back with the air of a man who had learned a nasty lesson.
There is a tragic side to this aspect of Thai culture, when we European bikers first start riding, we often go out and buy the kit that will keep us safe in the event of a fall, such as a helmet, gloves and boots. In Thailand things are very different, despite a legal requirement for riders to wear a helmet, almost all Thais ride without one, while often dressed in shorts and open toed sandals.
As Europeans graphically exposed to the horrors of a bike accident, our imagination works way too fast when we see their lack of proper riding gear.
The next morning bathed in bright warm sunshine we loaded the bikes and after saying good bye to our friends, we hit the road, heading for Phuket, Bike Week and a whole other adventure.
Links.
Jayne's website
http://jaynehecate.yolasite.com/
Jayne's Blog
http://jayne-hecate-writer.tumblr.com/
Khao Sok valley Lodge on Trip Advisor
http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g297917-d2013491-Reviews-Khao_Sok_Valley_Lodge-Surat_Thani_Surat_Thani_Province.html