You know my views mate and they are pretty much echoed by everyone on here. Bikes are replaceable...you aren't! I know its early days yet, and most of the upset and pain comes from the whole inconvienence of the everything. And kicking yourself for it happening and how it could have been avoided.
I am sure you will reflect back on it, and wonder what you could have done differently. But I'll be honest....no matter what you would have changed, done differently or not done there are other things that could have happened which would of made it a whole lot worse. Bigger tree, oncoming cars, injury to you etc etc. To walk away, with nothing more than a dented pride and a little headache is enough of a gift as you could ever want from a bike accident.
I've done most of my riding with you over the past 12 months and can say its been a pleasure to see how you ride on the road, and i have to say it that I've seen you ride faster around similar if not sharper bends. However, every now and again something spooks us. It happens to riders and car drivers alike. It could be a new bend or one we've ridden/driven for years but something says "your going to fast or your not gonna make it". Instinct kicks in and you grab a handfull of front break. I've done, as I sure most of the crew on this site have done before. The bikes sits up and you carry straight on.....thats exactly what happened. Simple. The good thing to take from this is that you can explain why it happened and learn from it. Be fortunate that you get the opportunity to move on from it.
It wasn't particularly pleasant to watch being right behind you, and trying to stop quickly, get off the bike and get to you proved an art I am yet to master in the welsh undergrowth. But seeing you get up was a great sight. However, next time try and be a bit more graceful when you fall off
No points for the landing, you feet weren't together and you didn't extend you arms
Whatever you decide to do mate, i'll be behind you whatever. Tomorrow is another day and each day that passes you'll find the right option for you. I think, brush yourself off...strip the bike...get the insurance check and buy an brand new 04 model from a dealer and start again. Get back on the horse that bolted and head for Bala.
Can I just say to how much this site added to last night....Chris, Dave, Andy, Jason and myself all met through this site and become firm friends. Last night was a testament to that friendship when Chris crashed. Hats off Dave, Andy and J....but Dave next time...hurry the fuck up!
If you need owt Chris, give us a shout!