Scotland by BMW R1200GS Part 3 - Shiel Bridge to Ullapool on the North Coast 500

[@philr80rt]

In 6 months time you'll look back on this and only remember the good bits and none of the pain . I still remember this road 20 years latter .Really enjoying these videos. keep up the great work.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Philip Murphy Thanks Philip, I already am!

[@ImLeuff]

Wouldn't be as fun a journey without challenging parts :) Great video, loving this series, thanks for filming it and uploading

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very true - cheers Leuff...

[@joemaracic8636]

Absolutely the best narration I have seen on the net. Single Minded Tour. This is the way of the perfect ride. I ride the month of October, here in the states, and I surely enjoyed the way you expressed my own thoughts as I ride alone. Wet and tired, shoulder aches, cold. Food and a beer, a hotel and a warm bed.. So good for the soul. This is why we ride. I am 70 now, and traded my '17 GS for the R1200R, set up with bags and a good windscreen. Even my GS top case fits. Much lower, so it is easier to navigate tough roads when fully loaded. Well done. Excellent! Four Stars.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Joe, so pleased you enjoyed it (don't forget the other episodes!) and that we concur.....all the best - TMF

[@richardchidwick5439]

Bedridden by a virus - perfect opportunity to scan your back catalogue for the best bits. Fabulous touring videos, that keep adding routes to my list. Great job, much appreciated Mr Flyer.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Richard - hope you're better soon....

[@bobfisheruk]

Great Video, Thanks for that, I was on that ride with you, and I am not Wet, Cold or Tired. Look forward to the next Video

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You chose the right way to go!! Cheers - TMF

[@stephenbrooks2861]

Glad you enjoyed my country. I'm a recovery driver here in the Highlands based at Lochcarron. The Bealach N Ba is a major part of my work here. Try it with a trailer hitched on and loaded with a Lamborghini and two very worried owners 🤣 I took good care of them and there vehicle . Enjoying your videos immensely, keep them coming sir. Thank you.

[@russellsleaper5105]

This is a smashing series, Mr. Flyer. Not sure if I'm more surprised by watching someone else riding for 90 minutes (Parts 1, 2 and 3), or by being so thoroughly entertained. Brilliant, unpretentious, fascinating journey on a bike I'm interested in and scenery that makes me homesick!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow thank you Russell - that is great to hear!

[@jaydmhearne]

Stunning!...I feel like I need a beer as well after watching that

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...it certainly went down well (as did the local fish and chips!)...

[@philhiggins4922]

Superb again Mr Flyer. I've cycled up bealach na ba from both sides. They way you came up was the first way I tried. Slow and steady. Till the stretch before the hair pins. It was so steep I had to get off and walk. When I got up to the hairpins in could cycle again. A couple of Iguys passed me in a car shouting Go Go. Not knowing I had been trembling, pushing my bicycle just minutes earlier. Cycling up from Applecross is steeper for more often. From applecross to Sheildaig is awesome. Superb video sir. I'll post video of guys cycling along your route that I found a couple of years ago.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thnaks Phil - and I agree, the next leg the scenery gets better and better!

[@garycampbell7891]

The beauty combined with the challenge and pain came across perfectly. "Arse end of nowhere " really made me smile. Exactly one year ago this weekend I lost a difference of opinion with a campervan on this route. The remoteness is highlighted by the fact it was two hours before a doctor, ambulance and then helicopter got to the scene. So for everyone planning this trip please be aware that help when required is a long way away. And no phone signal! Cheers.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Gary Campbell Oh dear Gary - sorry to hear that, hope the outcome is OK? ....and yes it is a true wilderness up there...

[@garycampbell7891]

Outcome was fine thanks. All the GS needed was a new Vario top box lid. I had 8 broken ribs burst spleen and collapsed lung but all well now. Holidaymakers are understandably amazed by the scenery and can forget to look for bikes when pulling out of passing places......

[@martybartfast]

A great accomplishment. Thanks for bringing us along for the ride.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for joining me!

[@johnfountain8588]

This is a great series thanks for taking me

[@JohnJay1745]

Spectacular video! The best yet in this series. There's nothing like arriving at a hotel wet and tired after a long challenging day on a motorcycle.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes, believe me the beer and fish and chip supper was sweet!! The scenery gets better from here on in!

[@nickfry7705]

Excellent, re-lived the Balach na ba we did last week watching this thanks. Just come back from doing the NC500 from Derby on my KTM 690 Duke, whoever said you cant tour one one. Absolutely brilliant trip and should be on everyones bucket list. We've had brilliant weather, swam in lochs and the sea (bit chilly mind). You looked as though you were having to ride too much to be able to enjoy things on the way around. We deliberately split the NC500 into much smaller chunks of between 90 and 120 miles a day to give us time to explore our stopovers. The jewel in the crown was stopping at Applecross, absolutely beautiful, good pub, fish and chip van and a youth hostel. What more could you ask.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one Nick - you watching my current Western Isles tour? ...even better than the NC500 in my opinion....

[@maz2496]

Fantastic , bring on next Friday and thanks for the advice you gave me as I'll be up there soon!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Enjoy!

[@interceptorm5]

Brilliant places. I can tell you that scenery is on par with the places down under here in New Zealand. That area reminds me so much on Tongariro region down here. Similar distance from the sea level, similar alpine flora. This planet is beautiful, no matter where you go. Have a good night's rest, we are eagerly awaiting your next leg of the journey. Thanks for wonderful videos.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Interceptorm5 - and yes I agree, some gorgeous places on this planet of ours, turns out it's not as crowded as some say!

[@stanstevens6289]

Mr Flyer, you have balls of steel going up that pass on a fully laden GS!! Reminds me of the little roads in Corfu that have similar hair pins which were hairy enough on a hired 660 XT with no baggage but myself. It's like an uphill U-turn... hats off to you Sir !!

[@petercunningham5694]

My friend and I did the pass on a pair of Honda C90's last June, high wind, rain and mist. Very scary but brilliant fun!

[@thomasgeser8486]

great video i did the Applecross pass 6 years ago by car. in my memories it wasn t so beautiful. maybe it s because i was driving a car. looking forward to the next episode cheers Tom

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Could be Tom - cheers - TMF

[@greenwooddigger]

Done both AC and the Hardknott pass. AC is much more demanding, those hairpins are tight and challenging! Really enjoying the series and making me very excited for my forth coming Scottish tour!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+The Scouse Bandit Mmm getting mixed messages on this one TSB, most people seem to think Hardknott is the more tricky??

[@michielvanderwerff]

Absolutely marvelous!! Did this route last year (actually more than the NC500: started in Dover, then through High Weald, South Downs, Quantock Hills, Bath, Monmouth, Brecon Beacons, Snowdonia, The Lake District - with the Wrynose and Hardknott Pass, Stirling, then the route as described...) ended up in Hull to take the ferry back to the Netherlands via Kielder, North Pennines, Yorkshire Dales.. Altogether breathtaking experience. Looking forward to your next posting!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow, now that was a UK tour! Thanks for watching - TMF

[@metallimacca1]

Great road trip. I’ve cycled many of those roads including the Bealach many times - it’s a real lung & leg buster. Looking forward to conquering it on my motorbike now! 👍

[@Desmo904]

I well remember riding from Ullapool up to Durness to see Smoo Cave (well worth it!) and we rode to John O'Groats and then decided to head down to Inverness. The rain got biblical towards Inverness and by the time we got to a 'camp site' we paid to get in late at night but opted to not even then go in as it would have been horrendous camping in sodden ground and bad rain! We ended up going all the way from Inverness to Edinburgh starting off at 10pm! Madness, and I don't recommend it. Given good weather, the NC500 is awesome. Done it a few times in cars and on bike. I knew exactly what you were feeling like in the video a few times! Great series and currently re-living it all at home here where I live now in Seattle in 2020. (Originally from Edinburgh) Great videos Andy!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Brilliant! Glad they’re bringing back memories for you!

[@marcr660907]

Wow, great ride, great views too, looking forward to the next episode. That road with the tight passing sections looked very unnerving, well navigated TMF. 😅

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Marc...

[@antonoat]

Doors locked, feet up, bottle of Directors Superior Ale, lets go to Scottishland.............LOL Cheers TMF, loving this series. Tony

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great stuff - cheers Tony!

[@BritishBoy1971]

It's good to check out places out of season, but when the weather is still ok. I did pretty much the same route in a Transit van 9 years ago, over 10 days (sleeping at the side of the road every other night, staying at camp sites the other nights and having a good shower in the morning). That was in September. It was great, no traffic jams and it was a relaxing drive. Seeing your videos will inspire many others to do the same. Thanks for sharing your experience TMF. :-)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You're welcome, thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF

[@1001013]

Thanks TMF, initially I gave this vid a miss, but it was a mistake. You did a great job and your honest comments showed how hard a ride can be. I'm planning to do the same trip solo (southern England to Cape Wrath etc) in the first week of April (2019), so it will be tough. Thanks again.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Enjoy Chris and thanks for watching!

[@leedavies839]

Fantastic. Last year myself and some freinds did the NC500. Nottingham to Dumfries overnight, onto Glen Coe overnight, onto kyle of tongue over night. Then had a big day to John o groats back to Nottingham. Riding an RT.. love it keep up the good work with the great videos.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Lee, sounds like my kind of trip!

[@jimmyjoe119]

Great video TMF....... i could smell the clutch on those hairpins:-)...... looking forward to the next episode.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...it wasn't the clutch you could smell ;0)

[@ritchsuk1840]

What an epic set of roads! Surely some great memories and fab pictures to be had :) those hairpin bends looked scary I had my heart in my mouth too watching you navigate those! Hats off to you sir.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you

[@deanchild9848]

omg what a ride, I got to try that out at some point....note to bucket list....steep climb road in Scotland....thanks for sharing looking forward to next bit.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Dean Child Got to be done Dean, it was fabulous...

[@johnoneill7962]

Did the same trip 2 years ago over a 3 day period at the height of summer and although I loved the experience I found it challenging and heavy going because of the excessive daily mileage. Unfortunately I got caught on the 2nd sharp bend to the left on Beealach na bar with a large motorhome coming down the we hill in the opposite direction, after a bit of a struggle I eventually managed to get through and make it to the top. That’s one biking challenge also ticked off my list of must do... Your comments about ‘Cacking yourself’ made me laugh because it brought back similar thoughts in my own mind. Class stuff!! Thanks again great video and commentary.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you for watching John - glad you liked it!

[@08060044A]

Brilliant video, really enjoying this series. Good days biking, it's all about the adventure!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Angus - great to have you along!

[@roadrash7030]

Yet another great video, great scenery and the usual British weather. When I retired a couple of years ago I decided to stop no later than 4pm every day and it made touring a lot better as I actually got to see the places where I stayed. Cheers for making a great video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Road Rash - when I retired last October I decided to pack as much as I can into the rest of my life :0)

[@roadrash7030]

Rock-on Tommy.........

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Now you are showing your age! ;0)

[@jamiek9907]

Well done ...driven and rode the Apple pass oh what fun done the trip the opposite way to self and what a cracking ride and drive it is. A tip about the passes in the lakes make your bike as lite as possible...and if there is any sign of moisture at ground level think 3 times before going up hill I had to abandon 1 trip up there with wether, the bends are tighter than Apple cross with steeper cambers. But if you want a wing man let me know as it fun up there.....lol

[@gibboian]

We did this ride a couple of years ago late one evening fully loaded and it was raining. When we got to the the hairpins it was thick fog! As we slowly rode over the top we were overtaken by a transit van with a trailer full of sheep!! Its a great ride - I've also ridden it in the sunshine when it was blast. You did well.

[@2muchgear750]

Thanks for taking us along mate.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for joining me, gave me someone to talk to!

[@coverttwenty]

Great journey. Once again, loved the photo. I've done some steep hairpins in South Africa and Australia and watching your video already had my shoulder blades tensing up. A loaded bike changes things when combined with some serious gradient. Looking forward to the next leg.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Tell me about it!

[@paultaylor6766]

Really enjoying the footage and commentary.....need to see Part 4

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Stay tuned - uploads tomorrow (Friday)

[@martinowl]

An awesome ride, great vid too. Lots of advice & tips for anyone who is planning to do the same route.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Martin..

[@Boodieman72]

TMF, I think the only word I can think of that describes this video... Breathtaking.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you very much :0)

[@djl6825]

That's a serious day on the bike........I cycled up BnB a few years ago and felt EXACTLY the same way when I got to the top!! Looking forward to the next installment.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers - and thanks for watching!

[@petermyles3669]

Found it! Fantastic. Relived it. Did it first about 5 years ago on a transalp that I took up in a van and explored the area and did it again 2 years ago on a fully laden pan european. First class again.

[@stuart7722]

Hats off to you sir on your journey. I find it highly irritating and ignorant of car drivers not to give way to motorcycles. Glad you made it home in one piece.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I think they assume because we have a small footprint we are more manoeuvrable than they are....they seem to forget we have to balance these heavy machines!

[@danlikesred3989]

What a beautiful route! Thanks for uploading.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you for watching :0)

[@stevenlennon4802]

Just started watching your channel,I'm absolutely loving it!!! Your reviews are very informative. And from watching this series of films I'm giving serious consideration to getting a bike licence..the roads look so much better on a bike than they did in my car!!..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Go for it Steven, you’ll enhance your life as a result!

[@shaunmcleod73]

Was looking forward to this all week great film looking forward to next weeks

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Shaun, glad you're enjoying my efforts - I can see I'm going to have to do more of these road trip type series....

[@TraneFrancks]

This is one of the best riding vids I've ever seen. That single-track was crazy. Well done!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you very much...

[@guitarman63]

Brilliant! Stunning scenery looked rather challenging in parts. Thanks again.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you liked it Dave, thanks for watching - TMF

[@jimwms1able]

I live at 8400 feet in the mountains. That road looked a lot like the road going up to my house. It looked like it was quite beautiful road. It does take a while to get used to the tight switch backs (especially with gravel). Temperatures do tend to drop as you go up in elevation and if not prepared it can be quite uncomfortable. The good news is that you were on tarmac and did not have big rocks to contend with. Frankly, I thought you did a great job! You have some really great adventures. Keep them coming.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Jim - where do you live then?

[@waltbarbour207]

Great video, brought back memories of my last trip in Scotland. I travelled from Edinburgh up to Applecross via Bealach na Bà and as my Hotel was in Skye I had the pleasure of going back down again and have to say the views were even better on the return trip, helped by some glorious sunshine.

[@rento1973]

Aye, it fair catches you out, in terms of hours in the saddle! Like me you probably found the quickest roads of the route from Ullapool towards J'o'G. Can wait to see the big GS stretch her legs in next Fridays instalment! Fantastic coverage Sir!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you :0)

[@jockknox3400]

Awesome!!! I'm heading down through Ullapool tomorrow from strathy on the north coast. I was a broken man yesterday traveling from fort William to strathy via Thurso, the weather was brutal couldn't see 20 meters in front of me. My visor was soaked both sides and my specs got it to 😟 I got to the b&b and the owners could not believe the state I was in. Dint help I was hungover too lol. Keep the vlds coming I'm loving them.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow, sounds like you copped it bad - hope the weather improves for you bud.....

[@1330Sutchy]

Having done the Hardknott pass via both car and motorbike I can say it is extremely tricky if you need to pass another vehicle with a gradient of up to 30% in places! Not quite as high however but equally stunning, another pass I would highly advise in the Lake District is the Honnister pass which also has a very interesting mining history if you care to stop at the visit centre at it's summit! Anyway, fantastic video once again and keep up the good work!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Daniel Sutch Thanks Dan - I have done Honister which was beautiful, looking forward to Hardknott....

[@fastfrankee]

Well done that man! Hardnott pass makes Applecross look like a walk in the park, much steeper and more narrow with off camber switch backs that want to throw you back down the hill. Don't let me worry you though hahaha.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hmmm, I am worried now, Hardknott is my next adventure out with the GS...maybe I should take the CRF instead!

[@fastfrankee]

just ride your GS like you would ride your CRF in challenging places and stand up when your doing those switch backs so you can counter balance the weight much easier than sitting down. Tip, First gear all the way!!! 2nd gear will throw you away!

[@rdc3397]

Thanks MF, I watch all of your vids; best on YT. As FF says, Hardknott is err harder than B na B; and his advice about gear use and counter balancing the bike are both good for riding Hardknott safely. Hardknott has washboard tarmac on many of the hairpins too, just to make it a bit more interesting! Ride it east to west, as it's less steep and forward visibility is better for planning. You'll likely find lots of other road users, inc cyclists, on Hardknott, unlike your B na B experience.

[@allaboutkalergi5012]

My Dad took a little Austin A35 up the Hardknott Pass in the late 60s, with the family, albeit in 1st gear. Don't worry you'll be fine.

[@Nick_R_]

I did Hardnott in an MG Metro many many years ago, just. I recall an unnamed road up to a little bleak B&B being harder and scarier, but all on a scale of hard and scary...

[@neilpinkett]

What a ride..fantastic video! Epic ride...your commentary is perfect.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you enjoyed it Neil!

[@philiplindley7384]

That brought back many memories for me. I did that route +, in 1985 on my work bike Kwacker 550GT (despatch rider). Did about 2,000 miles over a fortnight for my summer hols from Loch Lomond to Perth. Brilliant place, loved the North coast, stayed in youth hostels all the way round. I'm 63 now so I'll probably only see it again on a coach trip??!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching and for stopping by! All the best - TMF

[@russellhale7694]

After Ullapool the real fun roads begin! - The pass of the Cattle is something else, I remember at the top (where the masts are) you can see straight over the Isle Of Skye - Brilliant!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Tell me about tit!

[@djpingu78]

Russell Hale I won't talk about tit but I agree some great roads north of Ullapool, such as the road to Achmelvich Beach

[@PWoodliffe]

Hi MissendedFlyer, Been a while since I commented but done alot of Scotland with my Parents in a made motorhome when I was younger and have done all what your doing now. Went to that Castle Eilean Donan Castle and sat on a cannon that I was not supposed to. Didn't see the big sign!!! What a lovely part of the country and hope you enjoy every minute of it! I'm hoping to do a run to Scotland to walk Ben Nevis again! Keep posting the great vids and ride safe!!! Try the ferry frmo Glenelg to Skye!!! Scary!!!! I went on the old boat in a Ford Transit where you drive on to the platform and they swing you over the loch onto the boat!!! Near Brown trousers time there!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good stuff Philip - I will be back to do Skye for sure.....

[@Mr_Ghoul]

Great vid as always!!! Some of the passes here in Colorado can be tricky like that but they go up over 10k feet!! can't wait for the next upload, cheers brother!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

..yes well I guess it also depends at what altitude you start at...I'm guessing you're some way above sea level to begin with? Glad you liked my video and thanks very much for the kind words - much appreciated...TMF

[@Mr_Ghoul]

Yes definitely we start at 5k feet in Denver but you climb over 5k feet in a bit over 50 miles so it's pretty startling!! Keep smashing those miles buddy, it's brilliant!!

[@tristramgordon8252]

Did that route kast September 2016, I just loved the road up to Durness from Ullapool

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes that for me was my favourite bit of the whole ride, simply stunning (see next episode!)....

[@FreedomRTW]

Great ride, reminds me of the old days when I used to potter around the roads in the north of Scotland but on a bicycle and rough camping, not a spot on the stylish BMW and comfy hotel bed you have, but credit where it's due, that was a tough route you undertook. Kudos to you mate. Haven't been back to the old country to ride (bicycles or motorbikes) in over 25 years. Your video really does it justice though. Looking forward to the next installment 😊 and thank for sharing this. Live to ride, ride to live.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you sir for the very kind words...so why haven't you been back??

[@FreedomRTW]

Been too busy exploring the roads in Central America on an FJ1200 (15 years) and now in Spain on a classic 1988 Honda CBR 600F (10 years). I've just ordered the BMW GS R1200 Adventure from Germany so should be here in a couple of months. You just might have inspired me to take a wee trip back home and do the 767 on it!😉. BTW, if you ever find yourself down this way (near Madrid), give us a shout. We've got a lovely wee farm just outside the capital - door's always open.

[@rossbrewster7128]

That looked like a right slog! Looking forward to the next leg.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Ross Brewster It was a slog but a challenge and fun too :0) thanks for watching - TMF

[@sidpop123]

Nice video. I did this last week on my Africa Twin DCT with no paniers, just a big tail bag. It was an absolute dream. Hairpins and single track roads are no problem at all with DCT. With a bit of practice you can get to the passing place at just the right moment to nip round the car (or motorcaravan) without having to slow down much.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I do like DCT I must admit - would have been good on this route for sure....

[@daveeccles7957]

This was the best yet of your Scotland tour my arse cheeks were clenching on those hairpins, looking forward to the next stage. keep it up TMF.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

The scenery just gets better too!

[@colkelly423]

Brilliant mate. Someone should have told you to build a night stop at the Applecross Inn or the campsite there. 270 miles in the saddle on that road is a killer, especially on your own. Really enjoying the video and great to see you're finally up in God's Country. All the best, Col, Kirkintilloch.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Col - it was a tiring day but one of the best I've ever had on my bike....I say one of the best as the next day and the one after that were just as good! Thanks for watching - TMF

[@mag998]

Fantastic series of videos, I have a whole new reason to look forward to Fridays now..! :) Thanks TMF and let me know if you ever come by Colorado, we'll go riding some of the passes here..! :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Would love to! Thanks....

[@kevintaylor9330]

Epic road and views. Scotland looks so beautiful. You did fine on the corners. No point being a hero and dropping the bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That was my main objective!

[@nigelpstreet]

Excellent series, really conveys the challenge of the ride.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

What you mean I made a right pigs ear and it looked hard you mean? ;0)

[@nigelpstreet]

Something like that ;-)

[@M4BoarBiker]

I'm really enjoying this series, I used the same route back in 2012. You passed the hotel I stayed at 23.29 (The Aultguish Inn).... I also had half a shandy at the Arch along with the Dutch BMW riders group. Great times, can't wait till August when I'll be there again. A spiffing good video TMF, thanks.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you

[@buddysinsight9834]

I did the Hardknot pass on a 125cc and like you say on this one it was not easy. Excellent vid. I have a new low seat GSA triple Black just waiting for panniers to be fitted and PDI checked. I can't wait. I need a lot of practice before I tackle a road like that. 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Buddy's Insight Ooh nice...good choice!

[@hudsonquay]

I drove this route in my motorhome in winter. My Mrs was trying to convince me to take the alternate route when she read that sign. I'll never forget the decent in to Applecross as it was snowing but sunny with several rainbows in the distance. By the way there's a little lay-by on the steep hairpin near the top you could've stopped at to get a picture of the road behind you. I think that policeman made you more anxious that you needed to be!

[@Giannhsss13]

Great video and a great place to be ! Waiting for the next parts !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you - stay tuned for the next few Fridays!

[@fjrboy]

Really enjoyed that video!...I went up around to John o Groats on my GS 2 years ago with the wife from South Wales. We were in Fort William and ready to go up to Applecross but the weather turned and became very wet and foggy so we aborted that part of the tour. So thanks for the video showing me what we missed....would have been interesting 2 up in the fog !!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I think you made the right choice, there's always another time!

[@peterlewis968]

Love the video, it's an area I have toured on a GSA many times. Just think you needed to build in a little more time to fully appreciate the area you are travelling. The weather can be very changeable up there, I remember abandoning a tour due to bad conditions!! Looking forward to the next part.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Stay tuned Peter!

[@sirrideabit651]

Really enjoyed that, hard going but well worth the awesome scenery, looking forward to the next episode.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it was well worth the slog.....thanks for watching - TMF

[@lindablanche8252]

Loved the video felt like i was sitting on the bike views were fantastic as was the commentary really enjoyed thanks very much.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Brilliant, glad you liked it Linda - thanks....

[@markullyett]

Some of my family live on the oposite bank of Loch Broom in a croft. Beautiful place. Ullapool can be bleak in the winter but it's a picture postcard in summer. Great video 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Mark

[@stanleyjohnstone2867]

Fair day in the saddle. Ullapool to John 'O Groats isn't so bad. Great video and a great advert for biking in Scotland.

[@stanleyjohnstone2867]

Just an interesting fact. It's not the highest tarmaced road in the UK. That honour belongs to the road to the Radar Station at Wanlockhead in Dumfries and Galloway.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Stanley -I think I said most incline-ous, not the highest ;0)

[@stenewton5175]

Lovin this vid. All familiar until bealach na ba so looking forward to the next upload. Great scenes well narrated. Cheers, keep it up 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching!

[@Nick_R_]

Awesome video. So cool that you weren't afraid to show us your very natural fears. Who needs Ewan and Charlie when we have TMF?!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Nick Rijke Hehe, very kind of you sir!

[@wynjones1033]

I've really enjoyed this trip so far, can't wait for the next. Not far from Brecon myself so I have this planned. Ride safe.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Wyn - stay tuned!

[@sharpbends]

Wow, best part so far ! Great effort & endurance particularly over that narrow & tricky pass, looked like a good place for a mini Pikes Peak time trial challenge ;-) Loved the riding through remote countryside, such a difference to what we normally see of busy UK roads.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it was a fabulous ride - the next day it was even better I reckon...stay tuned!

[@zorrozorro42]

A long time ago in another life I lived in Poolewe and worked as a coal man in the winter. Applecross was once a fortnight. You should try the Pass in a 12-ton lorry in the snow at night. Next time do it in the Summer though. It'll still be raining of course but it should at least be warmer. Can't wait for the next video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Rather you than me Gordon!

[@tucker9162]

Worth the wait. Good riding, great video - roll on pt4

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Tucker - next Friday will be here in a flash!

[@paulwil19]

Just bought a big GS Brecon Beacons outside my front door need a challenge like this. Nice one. Don't leave it to long for part 4..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes the Brecon Beacons are lovely - I have a video on that if you look in my trips n tours playlist....you'll love the GS out there. Next episode due next Friday...thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF

[@rrmerlin4961]

"Girls blouse" indeed, yah big jessy 😜 been up AC several times in a car and a bike, the route from AC to Ullapool is my favourite on a bike and I'll be doing it again (opposite direction) on me crf250 Rally.

[@seanfrank4158]

That was absolutely incredible. I would love the opportunity to ride those roads.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it's an amazing part of the world - where are you based then Sean?

[@davidshipkiss]

great work TMF, looks like a serious challenge - I'd highly recommend the BMW heat up vest, works perfectly with your GS, packs down to a tiny size, very light weight but warms you right through on those long, rainy cold rides which always seem more punishing at the end of a long day. Looking forward to part 4!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I must check out some heated riding gear - cheers David...

[@thejestersshoes1406]

Great vid, did same route on much lighter Tiger 800 last year and loved it - doing NC500 again in July with a mate - can't wait!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fingers crossed for the weather!

[@MarkATaylor]

This series is a classic Andy, and this particular episode is epic. I’m watching it all again having done a chunk of this last summer. Although I gave Bealach na Ba a wide berth 2 up fully loaded on my Tiger 1200 XRT, all that weight up top. Mind you, I’ve just bought a new GS so maybe this year 🤔

[@swartgevaar5794]

Epic ride. I did the same route a few weeks after you did on my R1200RT. Fortunately the weather was a lot better for me - no rain and temperature mostly in the mid to high teens. Like you, I did underestimate the amount of time it took to do, what in "normal" circumstances, would be relatively modest daily milage. The next time I do the North Coast 500 I think that I'll spread it over more days and take the time to enjoy it more. Again like yourself I did find that the last 50 miles or so of the day was an exercise in endurance rather then enjoyment! Funny how a few weeks later the "bad" bits seem to be fading from memory and the "good" bits are sticking! ;)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it is strange how that happens! Very jealous of the weather up there since I got back, it's been rubbish down here ever since and gorgeous up there!!

[@glennfryer1539]

That was a good long hard slog of a day, single track roads are a nightmare, especially on those tight bends as you can get allot of gravel on the turns, great to get to your hotel in one piece... definitely the bike for the job !!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Certainly was Glenn, I bonded with the GS those few days...brilliant machine for this sort of game....

[@DarrenJMHughes]

What a wait for this video. Thank for the next instalment. Not being a motorcyclist, I can't fully imagine what it is like to drive on those roads with a laden bike. What you said earlier about trying Hard knott and wrynose pass - do it. It has steeper hairpin bends 1 in 2 to 1 in 3 as you climb more quickly compared to what you drove on. Also try "Struggle" out of Ambleside - the last bit is interesting as there are a few hairpin switch backs. Please don't let what I have said put you off. The Lake District is a beautiful place - I have been going nye on 33 years (I'm 32). Await the nest video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Darren, I've done the lake district many times...looking forward to going back soon. Thanks for watching - stay tuned for the next episode next Friday! All the best - TMF

[@duncanblanchard334]

Great video, i can tell you that Hardknott on a big bike is not easy, but on my tracer 700 is a blast, but you'd manage ok, just don't go in high summer because the tourists are hopeless drivers. I met a bloke with a caravan heading for hardknott the last time i went over..............unbelievable, told him to turn around asap. Scotland looks great, but as you say it takes ages to cover the ground. Have to say the gearbox onyour beemer sounds rough, or it was maybe your teeth grinding going over the pass. Made me smile watching you go round the hairpin bends, just like me absolutley bricking it.......lovely. Can't wait for next installment.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Duncan - Hardknott is next on my agenda...stay tuned for that one ;0)

[@MrJpb2000]

That looked hard going...what a challenge 👊😎👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+MrJpb2000 It was indeed - fun though!

[@michaeloco]

Most awesome series of vids. Truly stunning part of the uk. Great job. Makes me want to visit Scotland even more.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Go for it, you'll love it!

[@micksmith1984]

Another great video, loved it. Looking forward to the next.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Mick - all the best - TMF

[@micmo1977]

Nicely timed 3rd part as I was planning to do that route next weekend but I'm now rethinking how much ground to cover each day! Great, honest video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Michael, the issue is where else can you stop! There's not a lot up there I can tell you...but yes, do err on the cautious is my advice (with regard to mileages).

[@kevinwhite2380]

WOW. What a wonderful ride & scenery :-) The single track to Applecross looks both exhillerating & scary at the same time. It's on my bucket list :-) I love your discussion about hoping to get back onto a major road - That small lane WAS the major road!!! I spent my early informative years growing up in the countryside, so I LOVE those small twisty lanes on a GSA (My Advance Rider observer was amazed at how easy I made lanes look, whilst others seemed quite scared !!). I do understand how long these rides can take - I found in the Alps that my average speed was about 25mph!! And I was not hanging around :-) You can see why there are motorcycle deaths on these beautiful roads - Bikers getting knackered, tired, cold, wet, looking at the scenery AND then trying to keep their average speed at 60mph whilst getting to their destination mhich is still 2-- miles away :( On a finat note- You were amazing riding up the Applecross Pass & giving us some absolutely stunning video footage. Keep up your EXCELLENT work. Now i'm off to watch some more of your videos....

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for all the kind words of encouragement Kevin - you've got some catching up to do!

[@chalkphil]

You earned your supper after that ride! I'm really enjoying these videos from Scotland, and despite the challenging aspect, I think I could well do this route in early autumn (on my FZ1). Keep the videos coming!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes you should go for it, it is an amazing ride, best I've ever done I reckon....