GBS Run out

GBS organise a factory run out a couple of times a year.

This April the route was Oakham to The British Motor Museum at Gaydon - an approx 85 mile cross country meandering route along quiet lanes and roads with a Pub stop at the Bulls Head for Orange Juice and Lemonade refreshment.

Slightly too far away from home to be fun in one day, so I drove up on the Saturday evening and stayed in a B&B local to the start. Missed the worst of the weather on the way up - local pub, The Crown in Uppingham, had a live band to sup cider to. I would have ordered food - but no chance making myself heard over the music! The chippy was a better option...

Frosty start - the overnight rain forming ice on the tonneau...
Chipped it off then moved the car to a sunny spot to warm up while I fuelled myself on a proper  cooked English breakfast.

The nature of a run out is more relaxed than a track day, focusing on the drive - yes, but not really an ounce of competition or pressure - just enjoying being out in the car, enough room on the road for everyone to spread out, and a couple of pauses to chat.

Meet up at a local garage, sunny now - still crisp but bright and dry.

I really enjoy just messing about in this little car!

Bandit country...

Concentrating hard turning into the Pub stop

...and the obligatory slow downs to share the road - this rider has a couple of spare horses presumably in case of a flat or other technical issue, same reason I carry a spare wheel on the Zero...

The final stop for lunch and a wander around the museum, GN13 drove well - new cooling system was fine and these run outs are as quick as I ever drive the car so a good test. I also managed to get a little sun burned into the bargain!

Inside a couple of original examples by Mr 'Lotus' Chapman from which all Sevens are descended:

Cooling changes tested - check

Test the new 360º camera - check

Great driving with like minded people - check

Productive day all round!

360º Video

A taster of the run in 360º view. Watch in Chrome or mobile Youtube app to be able to change viewpoint... 360º video link here and another mid run here

More to follow including standard flat footage when I'm in the editing mood.