PORTUGAL: UNFINISHED BUSINESS

What a change. The last three tours had begun in driving wind and rain, but the sun is shining as I ride to Portsmouth and meet the rest of the group – we have all known each other for many years and toured together for most of them.

Four years ago, we did a lap of Spain and promised ourselves we would come back for Portugal. The country, it seemed, was a hidden motorcyclists’ paradise. Empty roads with smooth surfaces in the main, through every type of terrain. Great hotels, food and wine, and all very reasonably priced. In other words, we had unfinished business.

I usually ride on my own in this group. They all ride litre-plus bikes of varying types, and quite rightly want to stretch their legs and enjoy them. All are considerably more