Zapping though the pine forests around Le Castellet on Mont Sainte Baume on an early start from Marseille for a croissant and coffee under the plantane trees near the picturesque boulangerie in Méounes-lès-Montrieux. Spring water from the village's ancient source tasted excellent too.
On to St-Maximin-la-Ste-Baume where's there's a useful pressure wash station. Bike now sparkling, on to the Provençal market at Aups. Another boulangerie at Aiguines for a picnic lunch overlooking the Lac de Sainte-Croix, along with the picturesque chateau amongst its vines and lavender. And suddenly on the tourist trail.
Loosing the tourists after Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and back to Greoux-les-Bains; roads now clear of traffic but finding the wind.
Back to Marseille via Aix-en-Provence.
A satisfying and sporty ride on fine roads, mostly clear of traffic; this is what sportsbikes do well: "point and shoot", so to speak. The early start helps avoid the traffic but there's the low angle sun in the eyes.