Cleaned the worst of the winter crud off - 2 hours and many cuts later (tie wraps etc; they always getcha! I wonder if a blood sacrifice means it'll now be possessed?
) it's not looking bad. A few more minor scuffs and scratches than when I bought it in June last year, but the ACF does appear to have kept things pretty good on the whole. Found a couple of stiff links on the chain, but the chap who does any work needed to it is looking into prices for a new kit - gen. fr. sprocket, black Renthal rr., and a DID X-Ring chain will be going on soon.
Then had a short blast incorporating a section of the Charlbury TT, and a nice, fast, sweeping stretch of the A44. All seems to be in good condition, not too much farm muck about. Got trounced by a Porsche on some of the tighter sections - judging by the way he committed to the corners I reckon he knew the roads much better than I did. I backed off a bit, as I need more time to become familiar with it all before I can really cut loose. Must learn this circuit better!
He was a very good driver actually, always slowing to the limit or below through the little villages and hamlets, and keeping a good distance from any cars we briefly got stuck behind, signalling his turns and all the rest - how often do you find a fast driver who's also safe like that? Great fun.