Hey, thanks for the replies.
I live in Whitefield, Manchester, so local to you. I tried to get on the Manchester TRF group website previously, but the links don't work, so it's nice to make contact.
I picked the bike up Friday, and had an enjoyable hour or so on Saturday exploring the hills North of Heywood and Rochdale. I even stumbled across a road that turned into a gravel track for half a mile up to a reservoir, so had my first experience of standing up on a bike off tarmac. Great fun, but very weird!
Made me realise I have so much to learn, how best to stand and put my weight, how to use the back brake whilst stood up! (freaked me out - my ankle didnt want to bend), I didn't even attempt to change gear!
So I think I might need some tuition before I come on any rides. Have any of you any experience of these guys?
http://www.overlandertrailtours.co.uk/onetwoone.htm Re the bike, I'm not fussed about it getting marked. I mean I dont want to beat the cr*p out of it, but I'm realistic enough to know I'll never get off the road if I'm worried about some scrapes.