Sorry to hear it Robin. I’ve had a similar incident, (but near miss), myself. Because I was bolt upright I managed to stay on, which was more good luck than judgement TBH. All I could do to lesson the blow was stand on the pegs like a racing jockey and cringe at what was to come.
Even so, it’s left a dink in my front wheel rim which, so I am told, would be unwise to try and knock back out on an alloy wheel. Fortunately, it doesn’t affect either the balance, handling or tyre pressure but it
is noticeable, especially when spun on the paddock stand.
It would cost too much to buy a new wheel, so I imagine, and I didn’t think I could pursue the Council because I had no witnesses or picture etc. So, rightly or wrongly, I didn’t think I would get anywhere with a claim.
One thing it reminded me of, however, is to try and follow any vehicle in their wheel line. It’s unavoidable to always do this and it also doesn't always give you the best road line of sight ahead. But, especially on a motorway, there have been times when I have suddenly happened upon a pothole which the driver in front has avoided by straddling it; wheels either side. So of course if I’m directly behind him and following in the middle, any pothole can appear as if from nowhere; especially unavoidable when two-up.
Not teaching my gran to suck eggs of course; I’m just relaying my experiences. I’m off to the south of France in a couple of weeks and I know you’re well travelled, so any tips or updates are welcome. I think I need two breathalysers, a hi-viz jacket, spare bulbs and an inch of tread on both wheels or something...
Hope your leg heals well and quickly. I, er, don’t have all the gear. Since I’ve put on weight my leather trousers don’t fit and I can’t afford a new pair just yet. I could forgo the trip and buy some but I haven’t had a good hol for years and I want to do it before another near-stroke ends what little pleasure I have left in my life. I want to go over the Millau bridge and I’m told the roads under and around there are something to behold.
Tone