Driving to Amsterdam, from the Midlands

Louis101993 · Renault 5 Driver Joined: 08 Sep 2009 Karma :

So I've decided at the ripe age of 19, I want to make my first journey onto international roads, but I've got a few questions to clear up first.

I've reading around various different places and a few things have caught my attention:-

A GB sticker clearly displayed on the back of your car - unless your car has 'Euro-plates' (number-plates that show a circle of 12 stars on a blue background) - Does this apply to motorcycle, I know it states car, but I'd rather be safe than sorry.

It's illegal to carry any radar detection equipment, whether or not it's switched on - Does my SatNav comes under "Radar detection" seeing as though it has fixed speed camera detection?

Are there any other things I need to be weary of?

The route I plan on taking is down to Folkestone, take the Channel Tunnel to Calais, then drive north from there through Belgium into Netherlands, around a 450 mile trip there.

I plan on taking a 2 man tent (2s up on the bike), and staying at a camp site in Amsterdam I've stopped at before.

On the way back I plan on taking the less riding more sitting around option, the Ferry from the Hook of Holland to Harwich which is around 250 miles, but a massive 8 hours ferry journey!

The whole trip, including the Ferry, the Eurostar, Petrol money and Camping for 2 nights would be roughly £190.

I plan on going from the 6-9th of July, nothing is set in stone as of yet, just speculation on the most efficient way.

Any tips, hints tricks or advise anybody has for me, I'm more than willing to listen.

Thanks, Louis
____________________
A2 License Acquired 18/05/2011
Daelim E5 '08 ->Honda CG '99 -> Kawasaki ZXR 400 RR '96 -> Suzuki SV650 '00 (Naked) -> Yamaha Fazer '99

Dilyan · World Chat Champion Joined: 18 Nov 2010 Karma :

Louis101993 · Renault 5 Driver Joined: 08 Sep 2009 Karma :

stinkwheel · Bovine Proctologist Joined: 12 Jul 2004 Karma :

The Dutch have a similar attitude to motorcycles as they do about everything else. In other words, chill out, relax, have a good time.

Since you've been before, I don't need to tell you that trying to go actually into Amsterdam itself on any form of vehicle from a bicycle upwards would be a silly thing to do in terms of your long term survival.
____________________
“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.

Louis101993 · Renault 5 Driver Joined: 08 Sep 2009 Karma :

G · The Voice of Reason Joined: 02 Feb 2002 Karma :

I took the Harwich to Hook van Holland ferry over before - Friday night, so makes sense to maximise use of useful time as you get a bed for the night and ready to go in the morning.

Louis101993 · Renault 5 Driver Joined: 08 Sep 2009 Karma :

doggone · World Chat Champion Joined: 20 May 2004 Karma :

G · The Voice of Reason Joined: 02 Feb 2002 Karma :

Oh yes; meant to say; didn't have any problems and parked near the central station too. But may be a bit more experienced than the OP in riding around busy cities etc.

Louis101993 · Renault 5 Driver Joined: 08 Sep 2009 Karma :

Couple more questions -

A GB sticker clearly displayed on the back of your car - unless your car has 'Euro-plates' (number-plates that show a circle of 12 stars on a blue background)

I assume this also applies to motorcycles, how should I go about this?

Also -

A warning triangle and reflective jacket for use if you break down or have to pull over to change a wheel or deal with any other problems.

Does this apply to motorbikes, would it be best if I just wore a hi-vis while riding?

Cheers
____________________
A2 License Acquired 18/05/2011
Daelim E5 '08 ->Honda CG '99 -> Kawasaki ZXR 400 RR '96 -> Suzuki SV650 '00 (Naked) -> Yamaha Fazer '99