Transalp

 Sold the Honda CB1300S recently and downsized to a Honda 650 Transalp (as mentioned in a previous posting) which came with a very useful Givi topbox and a couple of Givi 'Keyless' panniers. As the name implies, the panniers are opened not with a key but by entering a three digit code into the locking mechanism. This system works fine providing you know the code. However, the previous owner didn't know the code and, consequently, had never used the panniers so they look almost new, but new panniers are a fat lot of good if they can't be opened.

Checked the internet for info regarding opening said panniers when the code isn't known. A couple of people had struck lucky when slowly going through some of the ten thousand possible number permutations, while others had given up and contacted Givi to fit new locks. But then I spotted a good tip from someone who may have been a bank robber or a native of Liverpool, or both. His advice was to point torchlight into the tiny space between the three numbered wheels, then gently turn each wheel and, with the aid of a magnifying glass, look for a slight notch in the wheel's spindle. When that notch was spotted, that wheel should be in the right position. Then do the same with the other two wheels and the lock should open. Then write down the code in a safe place.

Tried this devious ploy without success. Probably because I didn't have a magnifying glass. Was about to open the damned panniers with the aid of an axe when I ran out of time and had to whizz off to Limoges airport to pick up Georgie. Arrived back home and explained the problem and possible solution to her. Five minutes later she'd opened both panniers, thus confirming she has microscopic vision as well as nimble fingers and loads of patience. Needless to say, I have none of those things.

Took a photo of the bike yesterday evening after I'd given it a bit of a clean and checked the tyre pressures in readiness for today's run to Guéret to register myself as the new owner. Left the panniers in the garage when I took the shots, which is probably where they'll stay until Georgie and I do a big trip somewhere. Anyways, have just returned from Guéret and the bike went well. It may be a comparative tiddler but it's a perfect tool for whizzing around the local roads. Dead chuffed.