loss of confidence

Don't worry Lou, a warm sunny day, some nice roads and you'll be loving it again. 8-)

I think most of us get a few nerves at some point, I certainly do, but a few minutes on the bike and it's gone.

The only way to stop it is to get out on the bike.

I'd pick a nice day (not easy I know) when the sun is shining (even harder) and the roads are dry and go off for a little ride somewhere just to enjoy it. Once you start enjoying it the nerves will go.

I know off roading is a great way to build up skills I grew up on a farm and road a little bike on the farm before I went out on the roads which was great fun and invaluable but not sure off roading now is going to be of huge benefit unless you want to try it. Unless you are quite physically strong its bloody hard work and still hurts when you come off. I love riding my bike on the road but wouldn't fancy off road riding now. Too cold, too wet and I aint strong enough.

Another thought have you ever considered having a go at advanced training - thats a great confidence builder. If you get a good observer they will know how you feel and work with you to help you overcome any worries you have helping you enjoy riding again.

Good luck :)

when my eldest had his accident and was paralysed I sold my road bike very tidy, very low mileage zephyr 750, wont find another like it , 10 months later looking forward to getting some better weather but have slowed down

mmmmmmmm not entirely sure what exactly you mean LoU .... I get the 'waht yer saying' but what actually ain't brimming you wiv confidence ?

I hate winter roads and the lack of 'grip' which adds to the fun in a field or wood but has no role 'helping' on the road whatsoever.

how often do ya get yer leg over sweetness :D :D :-?

ehhhh ??...........what ? ;D

Try little & often. H&C meets. You'll get it back ;)

I don't know why anyone would ride in this ****e.
Everyone has good days and bad days but you need to realise that lack of confidence is just as bad as over confidence.

Sit down and think about what part of riding is worrying you eg left turns, right turns, high speeds, town riding etc then work on it
Mine was hitting a lampost at 85mph. I'm still not comfortable with the idea mind ;D

Twist of the wrist is a great book to help understand how your brain can help or hinder you riding.

Good luck

Yep, must admit after i lowsided the blade it did take the wind out of the old sails, but tbh winter riding is a completely different experience, and can make you a better rider for it, maybe if its a better day, the next WB ride could be something to go for, you will be fine Lou, im sure :)

As above stick with it, it will all come back.

Went to Bristol yesterday via the A46. In all that wind it was frankly a tad worrying so bottled-out of using the motorway. Even so coming back was like dinghy sailing & definitely had to lean-in to the wind on the corners. Suspect if I had more experience I would have had the sense to take the car.

Lou I know exactly what you mean. Believe in yourself, you can do it - any time you want you can just do it. I know you can and I know when you are ready you will be out there again, just believe. :-*

BB