Most 600 original rear shocks are knackered after 20K miles, but then they tend to go soft rather than hard (oo-er) and bounce around or sag. Perhaps it's seizing. What's it like just sitting on it and bouncing up and down ?

Genuine or not, how on earth can a couple of cables cost £150 !

Should be just VAT. No Customs Duty until the value reaches £135. So 20% VAT on £46.99 is £9.40. The rest is their rip off handling charges.

I've posted on this subject before, about shipping agents/couriers charging import duty/VAT + a handling charge where it isn't due. How much was the value shown on the import declaration?
If they were £15 or less, no import duty of VAT is due.
If they are a gift, the value is £36
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/notice-143-a-guide-for-international-post-users/notice-143-a-guide-for-international-post-users
TNT tried to charge me for some cheap levers from Hong Kong. They got short shift from me and withdrew their claim 

It's because so much stolen stuff was being taken to scrappys. Railway cable etc. You just need to prove who you are, and they don't pay out in cash any more. Makes it all traceable. Good move, methinks.

I found DB a lot better on a Foxeye. Had it on for about 8 years now. Takes the wind away from chest and neck. Motorways are now a doddle. I'm 5 ft 11. I guess it depends on your height and riding position.

Ah, it's raining now...... Looks like a bike fettling day 

Saffron Walden weather map is still showing the same. Awful about 10:00 am then easing up. I presume this is off then. Will check thread first thing in the morning in case anybody changes their mind.

Just a thought everybody. Clocks go forward tonight, so early start tomorrow

You are still meant to get a paper reminder (V11) in the post. I would imagine not getting one isn't an excuse though.
"To drive or keep a vehicle on the road you will still need to get vehicle tax and DVLA will still send you a V11 or V85/1 renewal reminder when your vehicle tax is due to expire. This applies to all types of vehicles including those that are exempt from payment of vehicle tax or have a nil rate of Vehicle Excise Duty (VED)."
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vehicle-tax-changes

Pilot Road 3s, Pilot Road 3s, Pilot Road 3s 
Don't think they do the Pilot Road 4s in the 110/70ZR17 size for the 600

we (dazza, me, Midden and Grandma) would poss need to leave earlier then, it's an hour from Nell's to Saffron, might be best if people just get to Saffron, if we have too many stops waiting for people we may never get there..............

Yep that makes sense. I could catch you up the other side of the tunnel etc, but then we'd stop for tea and a bite and never get there. So will meet at Saffron