Introduction, Hello from Ireland.

[CE04_IRL]

Hi folks, just joined the forum. Thanks for having me.

I am new to bikes and have owned a CE04 since March 2024. (On turning 50, a new project). My intention was to learn to ride and I’m happy to say I have successfully mastered the art, without any mishaps.

I live in the Republic of Ireland, and it is my understanding that CE04s are quite rare. I suppose my first question is there any Irish CE04 riders here?

I love the bike and I’ve taken to the whole motorcycle ‘thing’ even though I have no past history of bikes and it is not in the family either. I will put up a few pics and a few questions in due course. Regards, CE04_IRL.

 

[Kiss4u]

Hello and welcome here!

Welcome too to the biker family.

I hope you enjoy your new CE04.

See you soon on the forum

 

[KeithQ]

Welcome aboard. Presumably there is something in Ireland like our Motorcycle Safety Foundation courses here in the States. Highly recommended if available, especially to those new to bikes.

How is the CE04? Fun to ride hopefully!

Keith Quigley
from Texas
2020 C650GT

 

[CE04_IRL]

Welcome aboard. Presumably there is something in Ireland like our Motorcycle Safety Foundation courses here in the States. Highly recommended if available, especially to those new to bikes.

How is the CE04? Fun to ride hopefully!

Keith Quigley
from Texas
2020 C650GT

Hi Keith

There is indeed, it's called IBT (Initial Basic Training). You won't be legally allowed to ride on the public roads without completing the course. You can also 'progress' through more advanced training to allow you to ride more powerful machines. It is also age dependant. Basically it prevents young lads or lasses riding powerful machines. Also it means you only need to do a driving test once, not every time you upgrade to a more powerful bike, if that's your thing.

The CE04 is great. I can't really compare it any other bike, because I haven't ridden any other bike. For my purposes, it is perfect. 10km to work and 10km back. (12 miles round trip). Occasional trip to beach, occasional ride in the country side. (Quigley is a name common in Co Wexford, SE of Ireland, where I'm based).
Brendan.

 

[KeithQ]

Hey Brendan. I thought there might be a few Quigleys in Wexford. And my paternal Grandmother was a Cavanaugh. So definitely some Irish roots I think! Glad to know about the training. I always suggest that to folks I meet who ask about riding. Been through a few different motorcycles myself. First one was a 400cc twin Yamaha which I nearly dropped directly in front of the dealership as I was trying to shift out of 1st gear. Quite embarrassing. Love my 'new' C650GT though. Sold my far heavier FJR1300 finally. Getting slightly too old I suppose to push an 800 pound bike around the garage. Stay safe and have fun!

KJQ