Adventure bike training?

[OV Lander]

So, if you'd reached a point where you thought "Jeez, it would be a good idea to get some formal Adventure Bike training!" where would you go?

I'm thinking of doing so technical training to improve my base skills, and so far, for big adventure bikes, the only options I've found are 2-day courses in Ozzie:
- BMW
- Outback Adventure Tours

Can anybody recommend anything closer to home? Say, in NZ somewhere?

Cheers

[Taz]

Haven't heard of any courses but the best way to up skill might be to buy a cheap trail bike and hit the trails? I had done a lot of off road riding and racing before I got old and started the adv riding thing.

[Padmei]

I know what you mean. If you haven't grown up doing mx or riding on a farm there are a lot of skills that are harder to pick up. If you can try to get hold of the DVD Dual Sport Riding Techniques. It has good drills to try to practise (I ahem am borrowing Jatz' copy at the mo).

I went to a mx training day with Team Green & Mike Cotter to gain some tips which was good but not really relavent to sliding around gravel roads.

There sure is a market (although small) for some small group tuition.

[cooneyr]

Calling Mr Warewolf. Where did we get to with Greg Power making a visit to NN?

[gunnyrob]

Get hold of Chris Birch, an enduro rider based in Auckland who also does rider training. It cost $150 for 3 hours one on one, was bloody excellent, and a damn side cheaper than the BMW courses in Oz. My riding through the gentle Annie last weekend on the big beemer was much more enjoyable and quicker as a result.

http://www.birchy.co.nz/

[marks]

So, if you'd reached a point where you thought "Jeez, it would be a good idea to get some formal Adventure Bike training!" where would you go?

I'm thinking of doing so technical training to improve my base skills, and so far, for big adventure bikes, the only options I've found are 2-day courses in Ozzie:
- BMW
- Outback Adventure Tours

Can anybody recommend anything closer to home? Say, in NZ somewhere?

Cheers

the Goldwing was not made to opposite lock around gravel corners.....


Haven't heard of any courses but the best way to up skill might be to buy a cheap trail bike and hit the trails? I had done a lot of off road riding and racing before I got old and started the adv riding thing.

falling off trail bikes has certainly made me better at falling off the klr.

[Taz]

falling off trail bikes has certainly made me better at falling off the klr.

You're trying too hard :lol: Relax.

[dino3310]

Get hold of Chris Birch, an enduro rider based in Auckland who also does rider training. It cost $150 for 3 hours one on one, was bloody excellent, and a damn side cheaper than the BMW courses in Oz. My riding through the gentle Annie last weekend on the big beemer was much more enjoyable and quicker as a result.

http://www.birchy.co.nz/

yeah thats the one, i think it was Iain who did a training session with him last summer.

[warewolf]

Calling Mr Warewolf. Where did we get to with Greg Power making a visit to NN?He agreed to it, I didn't follow up because I haven't had the wherewithal to participate. Funnily enough I've been thinking about that again recently.

Greg runs "trail" coaching which is doable on adventure bikes. I've done his courses on a Honda NX650 Dominator, DR200, DR-Z250... heck my wife was even seen pulling wheelies on one course! :Punk:

Since Greg runs adventure tours he understands the genre. Some of the MX-focussed trainers may not. I would expect if you talk to any of the trail/XC/enduro coaches (eg Birchy, but there's lots of them, you could even approach Nick Reader @ Epic Events, Taupo) you could be accommodated on their courses. Maybe not 100% depending on terrain technicality, but you'd still learn heaps. AFAIK there is no dedicated adventure/big bike training in NZ.

PS Anthrax is on the money. You'll learn a lot faster on a smaller, lighter less expensive trail bike. Most of the better adventure riders have spent years and years throwing trail bikes into the scrub, but now they are less competitive and just tour about on bigger bikes with aplomb.

Get a bunch o' riders together, tell an enduro coach you want a 'big bike' course run...

[gav24]

Hi OVlander, and others.
I'm based in Waikanae and could offer my services for a few riding tips.
Experience riding bikes for last 25 years is...
Junior and senior MX, Cross country and enduro at national level in UK,
Roadracing up to national level in UK, and also a race instructor on the Ron Haslam, Honda, Suzuki and 100% Bikes road race schools.
Moved to NZ in 2006.
2008 NZ vintage MX champion 125cc
School Teacher for last 8 years as well:argh:
Now a part time VMX-er and Adventure rider due to new family and the titanium plates and screws that hold my leg together these days:Oops:

If you need any references on my riding ability pm Junkman Joe, or Paladin as I've been on a few rides with these guys recently.

So if you want a bit of low key, informal training, or something more focussed, then pm me, and we can discuss it further, otherwise see you out on the trail sometime:scooter::scooter:

[Padmei]

I would be keen on some small group tuition if others in Nelson are keen & you want to come over for a weekend trip.

Otherwise maybe we could maybe factor it in to our Nth Island invasion to have 1/2 a day training on the Saturday then go for a longer ride after that & Sunday??

I watched the Dual sporting techniques dvd again tonite & once again relearnt things that I'd forgotten from the 1st time I'd watched it.

As someone posted earlier it would be great to get a smaller bike & blast around learning as you go, however I've found to have instruction earlier on can save a lot of frustration & eliminate bad habits. Also what you percieve you're doing & what you're actually doing are two different things.

There's no school like the school of hard knocks but I'd prefer to be taught from someone who has graduated from there

[JATZ]

I would be keen on some small group tuition if others in Nelson are keen & you want to come over for a weekend trip.

Otherwise maybe we could maybe factor it in to our Nth Island invasion to have 1/2 a day training on the Saturday then go for a longer ride after that & Sunday??

I watched the Dual sporting techniques dvd again tonite & once again relearnt things that I'd forgotten from the 1st time I'd watched it.

Either option sounds like a bloody good idea, after Big is back together would be good.
BTW have you checked out the suspension set up extra on the DVD, explains it very simply and how to achieve a proper setup

[Padmei]

Gonzo doesn't like me touching his suspension :no:

[NordieBoy]

Gonzo doesn't like me touching his suspension :no:

Wear latex gloves and warm your hands up first.

[gav24]

Seems that the training idea is popular. Thanks for the pm.s people.
I'm thinking that I could run a low key day on either the 10/11 th October.

Start up at the Pram entrance to the Mangakutukutuku's and make use of the flat paddock there to demo and practice a few new skills/techniques, then head up and over the crossing to the karapoti entrace. The track has a bit of everything (hopefully it will be reasonably dry!) and going that way gets gradually more challenging I think.

Focus will be for off road novices and near novices. Looking at basic stuff like braking, body positioning, gaining confidence and riding safely. We'll stop at each new obstacle and discuss the best techniques to use. So best not come if you like to keep riding all day!

As for numbers, cost etc. I'm pretty relaxed about both. This is the first "event" So how about a truly democratic system where all welcome and you pay me based on how much you feel you have learned during the day. If I've spent heaps of time with you on a 1-to-1 and you feel you learned heaps then obviously you may wish to pay me more than if you cruised along bored at the back, and felt you already knew about everything I said or demo'ed. Maybe a price guide of $0 to $100?

If you are one of those who have been thinking about some 1-to-1 private tuition, why not come along on this first day, have a chat, and then decide if I'm the man for the job in the future.

Lastly I'll be on my DR650 on road/trail 70/30 tyres (trail wings) so will be big bike friendly.

I'll keep an eye on this thread, and the weather and keep things updated, like final date, times, meet up location etc.

Hope this gets things started...

[Woody2]

Seems that the training idea is popular. Thanks for the pm.s people.
I'm thinking that I could run a low key day on either the 10/11 th October.

Start up at the Pram entrance to the Mangakutukutuku's and make use of the flat paddock there to demo and practice a few new skills/techniques, then head up and over the crossing to the karapoti entrace. The track has a bit of everything (hopefully it will be reasonably dry!) and going that way gets gradually more challenging I think.

Focus will be for off road novices and near novices. Looking at basic stuff like braking, body positioning, gaining confidence and riding safely. We'll stop at each new obstacle and discuss the best techniques to use. So best not come if you like to keep riding all day!

As for numbers, cost etc. I'm pretty relaxed about both. This is the first "event" So how about a truly democratic system where all welcome and you pay me based on how much you feel you have learned during the day. If I've spent heaps of time with you on a 1-to-1 and you feel you learned heaps then obviously you may wish to pay me more than if you cruised along bored at the back, and felt you already knew about everything I said or demo'ed. Maybe a price guide of $0 to $100?

If you are one of those who have been thinking about some 1-to-1 private tuition, why not come along on this first day, have a chat, and then decide if I'm the man for the job in the future.

Lastly I'll be on my DR650 on road/trail 70/30 tyres (trail wings) so will be big bike friendly.

I'll keep an eye on this thread, and the weather and keep things updated, like final date, times, meet up location etc.

Hope this gets things started...

Thanks Gav, sounds like a plan, I'm pretty sure I'm in but will confirm closer to the time, cheers Daryl.

[Aslan]

Seems that the training idea is popular. Thanks for the pm.s people.
I'm thinking that I could run a low key day on either the 10/11 th October.

Start up at the Pram entrance to the Mangakutukutuku's and make use of the flat paddock there to demo and practice a few new skills/techniques, then head up and over the crossing to the karapoti entrace. The track has a bit of everything (hopefully it will be reasonably dry!) and going that way gets gradually more challenging I think.

Focus will be for off road novices and near novices. Looking at basic stuff like braking, body positioning, gaining confidence and riding safely. We'll stop at each new obstacle and discuss the best techniques to use. So best not come if you like to keep riding all day!

As for numbers, cost etc. I'm pretty relaxed about both. This is the first "event" So how about a truly democratic system where all welcome and you pay me based on how much you feel you have learned during the day. If I've spent heaps of time with you on a 1-to-1 and you feel you learned heaps then obviously you may wish to pay me more than if you cruised along bored at the back, and felt you already knew about everything I said or demo'ed. Maybe a price guide of $0 to $100?

If you are one of those who have been thinking about some 1-to-1 private tuition, why not come along on this first day, have a chat, and then decide if I'm the man for the job in the future.

Lastly I'll be on my DR650 on road/trail 70/30 tyres (trail wings) so will be big bike friendly.

I'll keep an eye on this thread, and the weather and keep things updated, like final date, times, meet up location etc.

Hope this gets things started...

Subject to other commitments I'm interested please Gav - cheers Aslan

[Moki]

Definitely interested. I'll be there.

Hey Gav, may be a good idea to set up one of those event type polls that people can add their name to. Probably get a good handle on numbers leading up to the date. I'm sure there will be a few people wanting to come out.

[young1]

I am from the other side of the coin so to speak. I have a enduro / MX / trail ride back ground so I am happy riding off road. Where I am let down is on the road, I don't know what an apex is (so how can I hit in when riding around the corner), how should I be cornering, where do I brake etc.

So where do I go to get some road riding skills?

[NordieBoy]

I am from the other side of the coin so to speak. I have a enduro / MX / trail ride back ground so I am happy riding off road. Where I am let down is on the road, I don't know what an apex is (so how can I hit in when riding around the corner), how should I be cornering, where do I brake etc.

So where do I go to get some road riding skills?

An apex is a type of small shrub.

[gav24]

Thanks Moki, good idea, I've set it up now as an event.
The day is Saturday the 10th October.
Unfortunatley cant make it on Sunday due to other commitments.
If weather is poo, or enough interest, could run the following weekend instead / as well.

If your a definate, please add your name to the list on the event page so I have some ideas on numbers.

Thanks all:2thumbsup

[OV Lander]

:2thumbsup Thanks Gav - I'm in! :2thumbsup

[Padmei]

I won't be able to make that date but hopefully we may be able to hook up later for another session.

[bart]

Good on you Gav. I think a bit of offroad training is a great idea for people to gain some confidence. :2thumbsup:2thumbsup

I'd be keen to try an intermediate course if it takes off. I'd also like to learn more about bike set-up (suspension etc.)

I've been toying with the idea of organising an 'Adventure' trail ride (plated bikes only). I've access to a couple of thousand acres of farm land we could have a play around on. This would be just a low key, fun day, bashing around some paddocks on big bikes. Problem is, it's miles from anywhere, so would have to be an overnighter for most people. Some training could be included perhaps.

[gav24]

Sounds good Bart:banana:

Ever seen that film "field of dreams"?

Not a great film but a great sentiment " If you build it - they will come"

Go for it:2thumbsup:2thumbsup

Be good to see how this first "event" goes first though, and get some feedback from those who come along.

[Woodman]

bartman that sounds like fun.

give me a loooong lead time and I could incorporate with a visit to Ma and Pa in Napier.

maybe

[clint640]

An apex is a type of small shrub.

Yup, & you should brake when you see God. ;)

[CRM]

There's a guy up North (Mike Bennett) who's excellent for training. He runs an outfit called 'The Farm' (http://www.thefarm.co.nz/frameset_home.htm)on the road to Russell - an hour or so north of Whangarei. Has 1000 acres of farm/bush/tracks that's a great playground and he does offroad training (he's an enduro ace).

I went out for ride around the place when I was staying there and although it wasn't a paid lesson he taught me a lot of great helpful technique - real good guy. Maybe we could organise something similar to the Waikanae thing for us northern folks?

[johannvr]

There's a guy up North (Mike Bennett) who's excellent for training. He runs an outfit called 'The Farm' (http://www.thefarm.co.nz/frameset_home.htm)on the road to Russell - an hour or so north of Whangarei. Has 1000 acres of farm/bush/tracks that's a great playground and he does offroad training (he's an enduro ace).

I went out for ride around the place when I was staying there and although it wasn't a paid lesson he taught me a lot of great helpful technique - real good guy. Maybe we could organise something similar to the Waikanae thing for us northern folks?

I could be keen on that ... assuming that us just sorta south of the Brynderwyns are honorary northern folks?

[CRM]

I could be keen on that ... assuming that us just sorta south of the Brynderwyns are honorary northern folks?

Oh yeah... anyone would be welcome. Maybe could fit it in with a bit of Northland trip (say a day at The Farm, then up over the ferry to Paihia, up to the cape, down 90 mile beach, Waipoua Forest etc over a couple of days)?

[johannvr]

Now you're talkin something that sounds good! Been threatening to do the North on the bike for too long - just needed a bit of a push, and this sounds like IT :banana:

[warewolf]

Yup, & you should brake when you see God. ;)God? I don't brake until I see Elvis!!! :buggerd:

[That looks like fun]

I am from the other side of the coin so to speak. I have a enduro / MX / trail ride back ground so I am happy riding off road. Where I am let down is on the road, I don't know what an apex is (so how can I hit in when riding around the corner), how should I be cornering, where do I brake etc.

So where do I go to get some road riding skills?

Check these Guys out Mike, they run some good (road riding) training days
http://www.hamiltonmcc.org.nz/
The wife and I went to one and even she learnt something :buggerd:
I been trying to learn her some stuff for years :dodge:
By the way Nordie was pulling ya leg about an Apex being a small shrub, its more like a tree :lol:

[gav24]

Hi all,
I've been away from the forum for a few days, and its good to see a few of you have added your name to the list on the calendar for the Pram/Kapiti/Mungatukutuku event.
The event should be good day, and the 'Mungy's' can always teach everyone a thing or two:laugh: A whole buch of everything in them there hills!:shit:
Looking forward to it though, as it will be my next time out on my bike other than commuting due to other commitments.

[Lambo]

Hey Gav,

Sounds like a great day, will have to confirm start of week but I'm 90% in. Just to check will it be all off road or a mix of off road and on road? Just so I know what rims/tyres to chuck on.
Also what time were you thinking of kicking off?

Cheers

[gav24]

Hi,
Riding will be all off road to start with then at the other end of the track its a tarseal road for about 20+kms back to the start on the pram side of the karapoti crossing if thats where you have parked a trailer. Other option may be to head in as far as you want to then head back the way we've come.

Weather looks like it'll be a bit slippery on the infamous clay of the Mungy's and that stuff doesnt care what tyres you've got on:whocares:

As a guide I'll have a 50/50 Vee rubber 'trail-wolf' (? - cheapest I could get!) on the rear and a pretty worn 70/30 road based Bridgestone 'trailwing' on the front. Probably be better the other way round, ie more grip on the front, but ho-hum...
Base your tyre choices on that especially if your riding to pram any distance...

As for a start time? probably around 10 I guess... open to offers but 10 seems the ideal mix of a lie-in and time for a longish ride!:wari:

See you next Saturday...

[Woody2]

Hi all,
I've been away from the forum for a few days, and its good to see a few of you have added your name to the list on the calendar for the Pram/Kapiti/Mungatukutuku event.
The event should be good day, and the 'Mungy's' can always teach everyone a thing or two:laugh: A whole buch of everything in them there hills!:shit:
Looking forward to it though, as it will be my next time out on my bike other than commuting due to other commitments.


Hi Gav,
Unfortunately with Family staying and a major project on the go I can't make this weekend, I will definitely be a starter for next time or happy to pm ya Gav at a later date. Have a great time guys Cheers Woody.

[DaveGS]

Hey Gav,

I've been after something like this for a while... will see what the weather is like.

I'm keen on the GS, only have trail attacks on.

Dave

[WuZards-Eugene]

Hey Gav

Sounds like an awesome idea. I shall endeavour to be there and join in on the fun and help out if needed. The more the merry. Ive been through the Mangatuk and akatarawa's before, had an absolute blast.

Which track will you be taking to karapoti??

[OV Lander]

Gav - Are you putting any weather parameters on the day?

Forecasts are for moderate rain Friday night, drizzle Saturday morning drying out by midday....

...or is it Rain, Hail or snow - we go!

[gav24]

Yep weather isnt looking brilliant, but last time i went through there was snow on the top of the pram track! Made it through on worn out trail wings with no dramas:2thumbsup
Anyway, If the forcast is right and its a bit showery and clearing through the day, then I reckon we still meet up at 10.00 for a 10.15 start.
We can spend some time on the gravel road, then the paddock if not too slippery, By then it will be fantastically sunny and hot :whistle: so we can head out for the crossing via perhams, then the pram track to karapoti road. The clay will be slippery as hell (regardless of tyres) in places but I'll try and train you how to deal with it!
So definately still on at the moment - but obviously keep checking this forum, and the weather:2thumbsup

[gav24]

----LATEST UPDATE----

For those planning on joining me for the training this saturday, Sorry but I've had to postpone it due to the weather. Just headed up this arvo for a quick look and its not exactly ideal for a novice training day:weep:

Looks like the river crossings will be pretty deep by saturday and as for the extent of the infamous wet clay...:(
Even the normally easy grassy paddock is getting a bit swamp like, with 2 more days rain forecast it could be a bit....interesting!

Also just looked at the metservice website and there are some pretty severe storms and snow heading for the tops:(

Will look to run the same day again in about a month.:2thumbsup

Thanks for the great support though guys,:2thumbsup hopefully the weather will improve...
Foiled again!

[OV Lander]

Drat, drat and double drat!

Was really looking forward to it - still, if we push it out a couple of weeks I should have the new crash bars fabricated - which should help to keep the damage costs down!!

Say when, and we'll be there!

[NordieBoy]

Drat, drat and double drat!

Was really looking forward to it - still, if we push it out a couple of weeks I should have the new crash bars fabricated - which should help to keep the damage costs down!!

Say when, and we'll be there!

Then don't take the Goldwing.

[marks]

----LATEST UPDATE----

For those planning on joining me for the training this saturday, Sorry but I've had to postpone it due to the weather. Just headed up this arvo for a quick look and its not exactly ideal for a novice training day:weep:

Looks like the river crossings will be pretty deep by saturday and as for the extent of the infamous wet clay...:(
Even the normally easy grassy paddock is getting a bit swamp like, with 2 more days rain forecast it could be a bit....interesting!

Also just looked at the metservice website and there are some pretty severe storms and snow heading for the tops:(

Will look to run the same day again in about a month.:2thumbsup

Thanks for the great support though guys,:2thumbsup hopefully the weather will improve...
Foiled again!

Odlins Rd might be a better alternative as its much less affected by rain.

[gav24]

Yep, considered that but for training/coaching its not the greatest.
Too narrow and twisty to watch the riders, and no spots to practice stuff.:Pokey::(

I would rather wait until the Mungy's is more accessible so we can use the open paddock area and have a bit more room on the trail.

That would make the day more useful for those who take part:niceone:

[OV Lander]

Of course, we all know that you are supposed to have a Trail Riding Permit for the Mungatuk's, right?

Free from the Regional Council ranger on 04 526 5343.

[gav24]

...errrr......right!:niceone:

better get on it ASAP!

(been going up there for a few years, and dont know anyone else with one:nono: Think that they are used more to monitor the use of the tracks etc more than a permission thing, but could be completely wrong?)

[RideZilla]

Awesome!

I'm keen to join the rescheduled event other commitments permitting. I'm on an F800GS with the standard Anakees.

How do you get to the Pram end of the Mungy's?

Cheer
Dean(o)

[gav24]

Hi ridezilla!
Just head up SH 1 then take the first right after the Sth entrance to Queen Elizabeth park (the old McKays crossing) This is Waterfall road and gravel :clap: When you pop out the end onto tarseal take the next right up Mangakutukutku road. Keep going over the hill til you reach a 4x4 quad place.
Ta-daaah! Let the fun begin!
Or an easier (and more boring) way is to get to the lights in Pram, turn right and keep following your nose til you get to Mangakutuku road from the other direction.
Looking at this weather and my next few house moving commitments, looks like it will be a few weeks at least til we can try again:(

[OV Lander]

Just keepin' the pressure on Gav, and letting you know we're all still keen!

[gav24]

Yep, I know guys:sweatdrop

I'm a bit tied up over the next few weekends as I'm finishing our new house ready to move in on the weekend of the 14/15 November. Amazing how many last minute jobs I need to get done:crazy:

So I will post up when my next free day comes up, and will try to give at least a weeks notice (but that will then act as a rain magnet I'm sure:argh:)

But then again, depending on my work rate this Saturday, this Sunday could be a goer... I'll keep you all posted:scooter::scooter:

[Oscar]

So, if you'd reached a point where you thought "Jeez, it would be a good idea to get some formal Adventure Bike training!" where would you go?

I'm thinking of doing so technical training to improve my base skills, and so far, for big adventure bikes, the only options I've found are 2-day courses in Ozzie:
- BMW
- Outback Adventure Tours

Can anybody recommend anything closer to home? Say, in NZ somewhere?

Cheers

I realise that this may be an expensive option, but it's probably cheaper in the long run (as opposed to dropping/breaking large Adv bikes).

Buy yourself a small (cheap) trail bike and go trail riding.

Roaring around a grassy paddock on an XR100 for an afternoon will teach you more about bike control than any amount of training on your big bike.

[rogerh]

Buy yourself a small (cheap) trail bike and go trail riding.

Roaring around a grassy paddock on an XR100 for an afternoon will teach you more about bike control than any amount of training on your big bike.

+1

Or even better go dirt bike riding with guys who are better than you. You would be amazed what you can learn by watching then doing (and falling off a few times)

[gav24]

All true comments,
But I do think that quite a few riders would like to get a few practical tips and techniques to make their Adv riding more confident and safer - not necessarily be able to hold a powerslide on wet grass for 50 meters, or some other advanced techniques

Its no fun riding with guys who are racing ahead of you, leaving you to tackle stuff with no great confidence in your abilities or whether you should sit/stand/brake/accelerate/lean forward/backwards etc.

But yes the best way to learn to ride well is to ride, ride, ride and probably crash, crash, crash a bit on the way as well! This is much cheaper on a trail bike:crazy:

[dino3310]

All true comments,

Its no fun riding with guys who are racing ahead of you, leaving you to tackle stuff with no great confidence in your abilities or whether you should sit/stand/brake/accelerate/lean forward/backwards etc.

:crazy:

shite most guys race ahead of me, dont worry me cause i'll just go as fast as i wana. i'll never try to keep up as there abillities are well ahead of my own, plus i know there waiting up a head at the next intersection. i just listen to there advice and do the odd quiet ride by myself and try different techniques, one thing ive learned with the BIG is she handles a LOT different than the last 2 bikes ive owned (DR650-DR500). so yeah practice and time are important to getting the skill factor up there.
one of the great things about the experienced guys we ride with on KB is the time they give us nanas,:2thumbsup i would say ive learned more from riding with them in the last year than i have riding by myself in the last 24years(on the metal/gravel). that DVD posted earlier in this thread ive found of most value, shows all the basic techniques required for what NZ roads have to offer.Just need to get some more ride time in now
http://www.dualsportriding.com/

[gav24]

Just need to get some more ride time in now


Yep you got that last bit right:2thumbsup
But the older I get, that time gets harder and harder to come by:weep:
So I make sure my 15km commute has a bit of gravel in (think that must be what the cycle route is really for...:whistle:)

I'm afraid that even though the weather is looking great for this weekend, the mud slide that is my new drive way, and bare, paint and gibstop covered boards that are my new floor have had to take priority:weep: again:argh:

See you all out on the trails - one day:2thumbsup:2thumbsup

[pampa]

Hi Gav, have you considered to use the beach? There is plenty of space there :shifty:

http://proyecto-magoo.com.ar/pablo/Pictures/Ktm-300exc-25.10.2009/dsc07280.jpg-1024x768.jpg

Cheers,
Pampa


Yep you got that last bit right:2thumbsup
But the older I get, that time gets harder and harder to come by:weep:
So I make sure my 15km commute has a bit of gravel in (think that must be what the cycle route is really for...:whistle:)

I'm afraid that even though the weather is looking great for this weekend, the mud slide that is my new drive way, and bare, paint and gibstop covered boards that are my new floor have had to take priority:weep: again:argh:

See you all out on the trails - one day:2thumbsup:2thumbsup

[gav24]

Cant bro!
New local bylaw on the kapiti coast means that from the 1st of September ALL bikes are banned from the beaches. Not just unregistered MX bikes but ALL 2-wheelers. And cars are still allowed! even 4 and 3 wheelers with no rego apparently as well!:gob::blink:
Got to love those small minded, knee-jerk reactionist local councillors!!! - NOT!
:angry::angry:

[Pedrostt500]

Though Does it have to be a Kapiti beach?, if its a good day Ocean Beach down at lake Ferry,
I would be keen to tag along, as I need to brush up on some unused skills, though the next 2 weekends are out for me, but would happily tag along at a latter date.

[NordieBoy]

Cant bro!
New local bylaw on the kapiti coast means that from the 1st of September ALL bikes are banned from the beaches. Not just unregistered MX bikes but ALL 2-wheelers. And cars are still allowed! even 4 and 3 wheelers with no rego apparently as well!:gob::blink:
Got to love those small minded, knee-jerk reactionist local councillors!!! - NOT!
:angry::angry:

Hmmm... Can they do that?

I'd have thought they could ban vehicles from a beach but not a specific type of vehicle.

Especially if said vehicles are road reg'd.

[warewolf]

Yes, pretty sure they can.

AFAIK it falls in to the same category as say, banning vehicles over a particular weight on a bridge. When it comes to by-laws, they can pretty much do as they please.

[gav24]

Hmmm... Can they do that?

I'd have thought they could ban vehicles from a beach but not a specific type of vehicle.

Especially if said vehicles are road reg'd.

Yes they can, we were warned by a MAF guy riding an unregistered quad with no helmet etc, who had to catch us up to tell us:blink:

We were both on fully registered ADV bikes, cruising along the deserted beach at about 40 k's:scooter::scooter:

Ahh, the irony:bash::bash::blink:

[NordieBoy]

Yes they can, we were warned by a MAF guy riding an unregistered quad with no helmet etc, who had to catch us up to tell us:blink:

We were both on fully registered ADV bikes, cruising along the deserted beach at about 40 k's:scooter::scooter:

Ahh, the irony:bash::bash::blink:

Dob him in.

No helmet, no reg, no wof on a public road.

[Howie]

Hmmm... Can they do that?

I'd have thought they could ban vehicles from a beach but not a specific type of vehicle.

Especially if said vehicles are road reg'd.
Unfortunately as Warewolf points out, Councils can pretty much Pass any bylaw they want, after the required consultation period. A link to the Kapti one is on this page I won't put a direct link in as it is a 5.7 MB pdf file. http://www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/Forms-Documents/Bylaws/ It specifically bans all two wheeled Motorcycles right down to even scooters, and kids bikes. I note it also bans Hovercraft.

I think we are going to see more and more of these sort of rules around the country against minority interest groups. In the Wellington region there are getting fewer places where you can go camping and not have to pay a fee of some kind. The Kiwi way of life is slowly changing.

Nordie, Nelson actually seems to be a really great area in NZ if you have an interest in outdoor activities as access to areas still seems to readily available, but it is probably slowly changing as well.


Dob him in.

No helmet, no reg, no wof on a public road.

unfortunatly no mention at all of Quads in the bylaw

Sorry about continuing an off topic post Gav,

The idea of a training ride is a great idea by the way, and if I am free when one gets off the ground I’ll probably come along.

Cheers

Paul

[gav24]

I note it also bans Hovercraft.



Damn those pesky hovercraft:lol::lol:

Only place I ever saw one of those anyway was 'trademe' Still better ban them I spose:Pokey:
Off topic:- For a few hours entertainment do a search for "home built" on trademe... :lol::weep::lol::weep::lol:

[junkmanjoe]

yip up at castlepoint,,there is a ban of unregistered bikes on the beach..

[gav24]

Right I've managed to check through my busy calender and this is the only free weekend between now and February 2010 :eek:

28th and 29th November.

Either date is good for me and the long awaited training day.:soon:
Venue will be the good old Mungakutukutuku's starting at the Paraparaumu end and heading through to the Akataruas / Karapoti entrance.

Hope the weather will be kind (thats just jinxed it:doh:)

Post back here with a preferred date, Saturday or Sunday. I'll then aim to put the preferred day up on the Kiwibiker calender early next week. Same format as the last one. Big bike friendly, laid back training focussed on confidence and safety - NOT speed! Cost is only what you feel you got out of it. True democracy!

(I'll have no internet access til next Monday from now, as I'm about to unplug this to move house...try to check it sometime at work though)

[warewolf]

yip up at castlepoint,,there is a ban of unregistered bikes on the beach..I thought that was a national road rule? Beaches are considered public 'roads' so all road rules apply: vehicle & driver must be licensed, helmets, etc etc.

[OV Lander]

Cheers Gav...

28th Works for me, 29th also works if required.

Looking forward to it!

[RideZilla]

Bugger! Not available that weekend. Maybe next time.

Cheers
Dean

[gav24]

Still no internet at home yet:( So this is a quick update from work.
But looks a bit quiet for this weekend?
Sunday would be the best for me, but pretty flexible. I'll keep an eye on the weather and put a final day up mid week.
For any new readers of this thread: Sunday 29th Nov (but may be Sat), 9.30 meet for 9.45 start, Novice adventure riding training, low key and focus on confidence and safe riding, Big bike (and useless tyre!) friendly.
Starting from Pram entrance to Mangakutukutukus, then riding through to Akatarawa via pram and karapoti tracks.
Payment is on a "as much as you feel it was worth scale" True democracy!!

[OV Lander]

Who's coming along this weekend?

[Woody2]

Who's coming along this weekend?

I have to put in my apologies for this weekend, but will be keen at a later date, unfortunately pretty busy up until Christmas,
Cheers.

[gav24]

Took a quick ride through last night to check the tracks before sunday.
Much of the 1st half has now been graded, and the path up to Orange hut has been improved a bit as well - last time I couldnt make it due to rain and the infamous Mungy clay!
This means that the surface is quite loose in places - but many of the ruts have gone. Should be great if it stays reasonably dry:rockon:, deep and claggy if the forecast rains appear on Saturday:bye:
Keep an eye on this thread if you are planning/thinking about coming along. I'll post a final confirmation/cancellation on saturday night or sunday morning.
Should be good fun if the weather holds out...
:scooter::scooter::scooter:

[gav24]

What was I saying about the weather holding out:no:
Should have kept my gob shut!:shutup:

Anyway, the forecast for tomorrow is bright sun:sunny: so lets just do this thing:wari::Punk:

So any of you that want to come along for some training/instruction its 9.30am meet for a 9.45 start at the entrance to the Mungakutukutuku on the Paraparaumu side. If you've not been before, look for valley road then Mangakutukutuku road on google maps, when you get to the gravel, keep going down the hill til you reach the carpark for 4x4 adventure. We'll meet there ready for the first river crossing... hope this rain stops!:soon:

[gav24]

Opened my mouth again, about the sun...
Still raining...
Still riding though - lets get muddy!:clap:

...might improve in the next 2 hours....:rolleyes:

[gav24]

Hey, cool ride today OV Lander!:scooter:
Maybe a little bit too much 'adventure' for a "novice" day after all that rain yesterday and last night.:Oops:
But they are called "adventure bikes";)
Still, the sun came out and the NZ back country really turned it on - again!
Anyway, hope you enjoyed the ride and your skills definately improved during the day. :yes:
Now you need to get on some of the Wellington/Wairarapa area ride outs and put those new skills into practice, or put that practice into new skills!
Hope to see you out on the trails again:rockon:

[OV Lander]

Indeed - a great slide, sorry, I mean ride!

So my biggest fears were slippery descents, especially when approaching corners, and boy did we practice those!

The new custom crash bars certainly proved to be worth their weight in gold, and my techniques for picking the bike up also improved as the day progressed!

Seriously though, the biggest thing I learnt was that the uncertain and skittery feeling of the bike is actually normal, and that the things I have been doing to 'hang on' are (largely!) correct. Knowing this helped me gain more confidence as the day progressed. At least now I know that more practice will help me reinforce the right things, rather than worry that I might be doing it all wrong!

The most rewarding part of the day?
Suddenly realising that I was already, and painlessly, down the main hill of greasy wet clay that gave me the shits last time I was out that way!

Thanks Gavin - I had a great ride and took away a lot from the day.

Cheers.

[gav24]

Yeah, wasnt going to mention the crash bar testing:Oops:
...or that long river crossing:sweatdrop

Glad you enjoyed it and learnt a bit too, its good to get this sort of feedback which makes me pleased to do these days.

I'll probably run another now in mid February, thats the next time I can see a gap in my busy schedule :crazy::wacko::crazy:

Maybe it'll be a bit drier then....
...not now I've just typed that:pinch:

[gav24]

BTW - if any of you BMW650 dakar, funduro etc riders out there need some seriously good and $$$$$ saving crash bars, I'd PM OVLander and see where he got his from.
Unobtrusive, strong, crash tested (both sides just to be sure;)) and bloody awesome!!!!

[OV Lander]

I have had a couple of questions about the bars. To go back to the beginning I really was not impressed with the amount of protection the SWmotech bars looked like they would provide, certainly not for the pricing anyway. So, I looked into having some custom bars made up.

I got in touch with local engineers Kapiti Precision Engineering (Paraparaumu), turns out they are both bikers and are/have been into the adventure space with Transalps and Buells currently - it meant they understood what I was talking about as I sketched up ideas and chewed the cud with them.

Long story short: for just under $500 they:
- straightened and reinforced my Jesse Panniers racks
- built some rear bars that mount onto the Jesse rack
- designed and built the engine bars

I reckon they saved me over $500 of damage this weekend - so good value in my opinion. If you wanted the engine bars only, I reckon they could do it for somewhere around $250-300?

Anyway, pics are attached (mark on L/H bar was the key touch point that saved the rest of the bike last weekend).

Interested in your thoughts.