Most young drivers looking for their first small car aren’t going to be awash with money, but that doesn’t mean you have to drive a rusty mid-70’s deathtrap (like new drivers in the mid-80’s had to). It’s much easier these days to find a ten-year old car that’s affordable, reliable and not as embarrassing as the mobile scrapheaps the previous generation had to put up with. Cars have got better, generally speaking; more economical to run, safer and more reliable. And there’s more good news; long-running models like the Golf and the Clio mean that there’s something to suit every pocket, if you’re prepared (or forced by financial necessity) to go for something a little older.
Monthly Archives: September 2014
18
Sep 14
Car Events Autumn 2014
So, you’ve passed your test, you’ve got your first car, it’s legal and roadworthy and you’re itching to get out on the road and show the little beauty off. But where are you going to go? How about one of the UK’s numerous and highly varied car events? You’ll meet like-minded, friendly folk (usually), pick up tips and see some amazing vehicles. This is just a brief selection of some of the country’s many shows and gatherings for autumn 2014. Warning: attending events like these can be habit-forming.
18
Sep 14
What To Pack For Your First Long Motorcycle Trip
At some point shortly after you pass your bike test, the idea of riding off for anything from a long weekend to several months will start to seem like a good idea. And it is. The longer you have to think about it, however, the more likely you are to fall into the classic trap; over-packing. If your trip is a few months away, and you have a bit of spare cash, you may well find yourself poring over catalogues and various websites, ogling the fantastic range of shiny things designed to make you entirely self-sufficient while on the road.
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11
Sep 14
How To Choose Your First Sat Nav
No navigation system is completely foolproof. Maps can be held upside down, sat navs instruct people to drive into rivers, and guiding yourself home using the stars doesn’t work very well during the daytime. However, if your sense of direction is less than perfect, a sat nav is probably the best system that humanity has come up with at the moment (rivers aside). They have the additional benefit of being an entertaining toy, if that’s the kind of thing that gets you excited. So how do they work, what do you need to look for when choosing one, and how cheaply can you pick up a decent one? Let’s find out…
04
Sep 14
Choosing a Car Stereo for New Drivers
So, you’ve passed your test, and you’ve bought your first car. It’s not new. In fact it’s been around the block a few times, but it works, it’s legal and you love it. There’s just one small problem; there’s a rectangular void where the stereo’s supposed to be. This need not be a huge problem. A decent new one need not break the bank, particularly if the speakers are still in the car. It’s a good idea to get the best one you can afford; you can upgrade the speakers at a later date if necessary. Here’s a look at the basics of choosing a car stereo, and three options under £100.