At the weekend I thought I would take the Plus 4 for its first long run since I got it in May. I know, I know, I know, all summer and only short trips, but still more mileage than the previous owners 4 years put together.

We decided to take it to north Norfolk and more, for a proper shakedown and put some 300 miles on it. Must say am very impressed with it, the ride is far less harsh than I ever expected, excellent consumption, and driving through the heaviest downpour I have seen for many a month, we only had 1 tiny dribble!

However as part of the shakedown I decided to try a bit of hardish breaking on a long clear road while still damp and managed to lock the rear wheels (nearside more than offside). All very controlled but welcome to a world without ABS. I also noticed that the inside of the exhaust, whilst not sooty, was not as grey as I was expecting. It's a 2007 Duratec.

Looking forward to its next run come rain or shine