
I'd imagined we might have to meet at some dodgy biker's caff so was pleasantly surprised when he suggested meeting at the Devonshire Arms to enjoy afternoon tea there afterwards. The tour sounded good already! There was much merriment as I climbed into the full biker gear that Jason provides for all their guests. It felt like this was going to be a real adventure, clothed in cosy leathers, with a robust helmet fitted with a two-way microphone so I could hear Jason's commentary and ask questions.
Jason had chosen a route which combined well-known, must-sees with off-the-beaten tracks that I'd forgotten about. He gave a lively commentary which was entertaining but not contrived and he didn't feel the need to natter on needlessly so there were also plenty of quiet moments when we could enjoy the beautiful scenery.
It was quite a cold day but I felt insulated and cosy inside the warm clothes, and yet could still enjoy the wind on my skin. It's quite a peculiar experience, sort of inside and yet outside. Car journeys mean you can move quite quickly but feel a bit separate from the world outside. The trike was very comfortable. and I loved the sense of being closer to the countryside. You essentially have a 360 degree view of the Dales and Jason will stop at any point if you want to take photos.
Yorkshire Trike Tours are really suited to anyone of any age. You don't have to sit astride a bike or battle with the elements - it's more like being in an open-topped car but with full insulation thanks to the water-proof and warm clothes they provide. They've recently bought a second trike and each one carries just two people (in addition to the driver) so I expect to see lots of brides and grooms arriving at their weddings in a whole new style! Or maybe you know someone celebrating a Big Birthday whold for a motorbike but would welcome a whizz round the Dales on a trike? See Yorkshire Trike Tours for more details