For many years now I've wanted to ride an old Brit single on the Rhyader to Aberystwyth back road along the Vale of Rheidol. I've done it on modern bikes but never a classic.

It's a whole, full day from my place to Aberystwyth, even on the V Strom when you stop for a cuppa, loo and lunch.

It feels like a journey that I'll never make on my Ajay - and tbh the speeds on some of the roads to get there wouldn't really suit it. It is very happy at 40 but above 50 you do start to tire of noise and vibes after a bit.

I'm left wondering whether classics really are for local plodding and that's it or whether a three day trip taking in a lot of back roads on the Ajay is worth it. I'm inclined to think not - the V Strom is an utter joy on any longer trip and has the full luggage, fairing, heated grips, brakes etc and is very relaxing/easy to ride.

So... does anyone on here still use a 50s single to tour in Britain and, if so, got any suggestions about keeping safe and keeping going?! I'm quite confident in the reliability of the bike; it's the extended riding on roads that have faster traffic that bothers me - I don't find it enjoyable.