Clarence Reserve open weekends

[cooneyr]

The Clarence Reserve near Kaikoura is being opened to public vehicle access for selected weekends this year (and last) as a trial. The remaining weekends are the 5 February to 7 February 2010, 5 March to 7 March 2010, and 2 April to 4 April 2010. Links about the reserve and open weekends are here (http://search.doc.govt.nz/cs.html?charset=iso-8859-1&url=http%3A//www.doc.govt.nz/upload/documents/parks-and-recreation/places-to-visit/nelson-marlborough/clarence-reserve-conservation-area.pdf&qt=kahutara+clarance&col=internet&n=3&la=en) and here (http://search.doc.govt.nz/cs.html?charset=iso-8859-1&url=http%3A//www.doc.govt.nz/upload/documents/parks-and-recreation/places-to-visit/nelson-marlborough/fact-sheet179-clarence-reserve.pdf&qt=kahutara+clarance&col=internet&n=10&la=en).

Subject to me getting permission I'm keen to go for a looksee proably in Feb. I'll be taking the 950 and riding up and back in a day from Chch. It will be an early start at 7am sharp so we are there around 9am with 8ish hours of ride time till we have to be out again (5pm) then home about 7pm. Anybody interested?

Cheers R

[mattsdakar]

Super keen, have often poured over our maps of the area which looks fantastic
Assuming I'm not rostered to work I'll be a starter, I'll bring the maps!

[CrazyFrog]

Yep, I'm keen too, I've got that weekend off so am amping for some ride time after missing the DB10.
So long as it's not raining...

[cooneyr]

Super keen, have often poured over our maps of the area which looks fantastic
Assuming I'm not rostered to work I'll be a starter, I'll bring the maps!

Umm formed tracks only is the instructions and I'm guessing the registration to get access thing will kinda make going of pieste a bit risky. Have a look at the first link and correlat that to your maps.


..So long as it's not raining...

I'd never have guessed - sig and all ;)

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

I'd be keen for Feb.

[cynna]

im keen for whenever so will keep an eye on the thread

[Racing Dave]

Umm formed tracks only is the instructions and I'm guessing the registration to get access thing will kinda make going of pieste a bit risky.

I went with a group of nine varied bikes on the December open weekend, and had a stunning ride. The story and photos should be in the Feb Kiwi Rider (due out next week).

The tracks are all good, and suitable for big (or biggish) bikes, but only if it's dry. The clay there is of the very sticky low-mudguard jamming type. Once over the Seaward Kaikoura Range there is a long section of many river crossings, but on a formed track in the river bed.

Once near the Clarence River you can ride up or down stream, till the tracks run out. There's a total of 75 km of tracks, which because of the layout need to be ridden in both directions, thus 150 km of fun. Our group took 7 hours, with many stops - the scenery is hugely varied and worth admiring.

No access fee, but vehicle/riders are registered in and out, to keep a track of those who might go missing. Several modern huts to stay in (fee applies), or freedom camping is allowed.

Definitely worth while, probably the best one-day ride going.

Cheers,
Dave B

[Taz]

So long as it's not raining...

Girl .

[CrazyFrog]

Us Nelson girls forget how to ride rain down here, with all our sunshine hours and all, we don't have webbed feet like you fella's up norf. :2guns:
Snow, yes, rain no. :bleh:
To be honest, it would be around 12 hours return trip from here, I just can't be arsed riding the plank seat DRZ in the rain if it's miserable weather. Keen as otherwise, and might stay in Kaikoura to give the monkey butt some respite.

[cooneyr]

Seeing as there is a few upper Sth Islanders that might come along maybe we should aim to meet in Kaikoura at the BP ready to leave at 9am. The start of the track is 25km back south from Kaikoura on the Inland Rd. Means we Chch riders can gas up in Kaikoura rather than Culverden or Wairau.

Cheers R

[Howie]

Subject to me getting permission I'm keen to go for a looksee proably in Feb. I'll be taking the 950 and riding up and back in a day from Chch. It will be an early start at 7am sharp so we are there around 9am with 8ish hours of ride time till we have to be out again (5pm) then home about 7pm. Anybody interested?

Cheers R

Which Day are you planning on going in the Saturday, or Sunday? I could be interested in coming down for a ride in there.



The tracks are all good, and suitable for big (or biggish) bikes, but only if it's dry. The clay there is of the very sticky low-mudguard jamming type. Once over the Seaward Kaikoura Range there is a long section of many river crossings, but on a formed track in the river bed.


How steep is the climb up to Blind saddle from the inland Kaikoura Road? Does it compare to the Porika, or New Creek to denniston tracks at all?

[cooneyr]

Which Day are you planning on going in the Saturday, or Sunday? I could be interested in coming down for a ride in there.....

Haven't decided yet. Prob Saturday - how does that work for you/Nelson riders?

Cheers R

[Howie]

Haven't decided yet. Prob Saturday - how does that work for you/Nelson riders?

Cheers R

Either Day is probably fine with me, as I'll take a day off work, one side or the other to get down and back, probably via the Molesworth/Rainbow roads. So I just need to know at least a week in front.

Cheers

Paul

[marks]

Either Day is probably fine with me, as I'll take a day off work, one side or the other to get down and back, probably via the Molesworth/Rainbow roads. So I just need to know at least a week in front.

Cheers

Paul

Are you organizing a ride for us Welly lads Howie????

[bart]

Are you organizing a ride for us Welly lads Howie????

I feel another 'invasion' coming on.

[marks]

I feel another 'invasion' coming on.

Friday - 8-9am ferry - molesworth - hamner
saturday - hamner - clarence river - hamner
sunday - hamner - rainbow - nelson - mungatapu - ferry -home or preferably
sunday - hamner - rainbow - porika - breaburn - maruria saddle - reefton
monday - reefton - braeburn - porika - nelson - mungatapu - home

problem is how do you go to Reefton without doing big river etc....

gee Howie has some good ideas..... :yes:

[.chris]

I feel another 'invasion' coming on.

The invasion has already begun :P

I would be keen to have a look around the clarence, will have to be the march dates, which I may combine with my return to the north.

[junkmanjoe]

going by the doc information on this track, they could close it at any time, with short or no notice..

JMJ

[Howie]

Are you organizing a ride for us Welly lads Howie????

Well I guess if more than one of us is interested we can team up for a ride down.


I feel another 'invasion' coming on.

Well it certainly looks like more than one of us!!


Friday - 8-9am ferry - molesworth - hamner
saturday - hamner - clarence river - hamner
sunday - hamner - rainbow - nelson - mungatapu - ferry -home or preferably
sunday - hamner - rainbow - porika - breaburn - maruria saddle - reefton
monday - reefton - braeburn - porika - nelson - mungatapu - home

Or if your going to extend it a day, you could stay an extra day in Hamner, and do Lake Sumner, if we can organise a permit. I believe they only allow 10 vehicles a day through the locked gate on any given day?




going by the doc information on this track, they could close it at any time, with short or no notice..

JMJ

Thats the chance you have to take I guess, and have a back up plan if the weather is crap.

[Pampera]

I feel another 'invasion' coming on.

Have already mentioned it to Mark! Great (and not so great) minds think alike. February would be out for me as I have a ride organised (and Whangamomona Hotel booked) to Pukekohe Classic Festival. March doable, albeit less convenient (finishing the Big Sky ride in Queenstown at the start of that week) and April is Easter - doable but would then be instead of Warbirds Over Wanaka.
Keen to see if we can put something together and catch the South Islander's sleeping on the barricades this time.
Still, times cannot suit everybody but hopefully we can swing something that works for all.

Michael

Michael

[cooneyr]

...Or if your going to extend it a day, you could stay an extra day in Hamner, and do Lake Sumner, if we can organise a permit. I believe they only allow 10 vehicles a day through the locked gate on any given day?

Thats the chance you have to take I guess, and have a back up plan if the weather is crap.

Umm the gate has/had no padlock and you can/could ride around it with help or if you were good. You should ask anyway but likely that its not a big deal. If the weather is bad on either coast it is likely that the weather in Lake Sumner will be bad. It cops it form all directions as open valley to the east and yet it is on the western side of the divide.

Cheers R

[marks]

Or if your going to extend it a day, you could stay an extra day in Hamner, and do Lake Sumner, if we can organise a permit. I believe they only allow 10 vehicles a day through the locked gate on any given day?

sounds good to me :yes:

I've stayed in Hanmer here (http://www.hanmerspringsaccommodation.co.nz/) serveral times and they are well proced with plenty of cabins etc

[ducatijim]

How steep is the climb up to Blind saddle from the inland Kaikoura Road? Does it compare to the Porika, or New Creek to denniston tracks at all?

????? and if youre there RD, the many river xings you mention - I am guessing shingle base? Bigish bikes?- does that mean a bunny like me aboard a 990a 'could'/should do it?

Or, should I just stay at home?

[cooneyr]

I'm keen to hear RD's take on the climb up Driving Spur to Blind Saddle too but I've had a look at the Topo's in the mean time. Steepest bit I could see on the Clarance Res track is just comming onto the end of Driving Spur (east of Blind Saddle) and it is 1 in 5.3. By comparison the Rotoroa end of the Porika is 1 in 3.7. If the surfacing on the Clarance Res track is any thing like the Porika (which i suspect it is not) then the 9x0's should be fine. Still with all this talk of sticky dirt I might be finding myself a knoblie rather than the E07 for the rear tyre.

With all this talk of another SI Invasion I hope there is more SIers put there hand up cause I'm not keen on being personally invaded by these pig islanders! Geddoff ya mongral :baby:

Cheers R

[Transalper]

I'd vote for a Saturday. February is fine.
I is gona go small.

[junkmanjoe]

With all this talk of another SI Invasion I hope there is more SIers put there hand up cause I'm not knee on being personally invaded by these pig islanders! Geddoff ya mongral :baby:

Cheers R

W T F..:argue:..Them riding words,,,,:headbang:

JMJ

[otsa]

New to this site and keen to tag along on a trip through the Clarence

[cooneyr]

Well it seems like everybody is comming along so why not join the party:niceone: The more to keep the Norf islanders under control the better LOL

Cheers R

[JATZ]

I may have to tag along on this one, depends when it is though, the next 2 weeks are gunna give my pocket money a bit of a hiding

[bart]

OK, I'm half serious about this....but March would probably suit me beterera. What are you other Norfeys thinking?

May be hard to get cheap rates on Waitangi Weekend also.

[cooneyr]

OK, I'm half serious about this....but March would probably suit me beterera. What are you other Norfeys thinking?

May be hard to get cheap rates on Waitangi Weekend also.

Waitangi weekend is only a two day weekend this year so doubt it will make much difference to the ferry fares.

Cheers R

[Howie]

I'm keen to hear RD's take on the climb up Driving Spur to Blind Saddle too but I've had a look at the Topo's in the mean time. Steepest bit I could see on the Clarance Res track is just comming onto the end of Driving Spur (east of Blind Saddle) and it is 1 in 5.3. By comparison the Rotoroa end of the Porika is 1 in 3.7. If the surfacing on the Clarance Res track is any thing like the Porika (which i suspect it is not) then the 9x0's should be fine. Still with all this talk of sticky dirt I might be finding myself a knoblie rather than the E07 for the rear tyre.

Cheers R

Well I have been up the Porika from Rotoroa, but not down it yet, and it is the steep downhills that give me the shits, need to pratice them.


sounds good to me :yes:

I've stayed in Hanmer here (http://www.hanmerspringsaccommodation.co.nz/) serveral times and they are well proced with plenty of cabins etc

That looks quite a good place to stay with options for most budgets Mark, it gets my vote.


OK, I'm half serious about this....but March would probably suit me beterera. What are you other Norfeys thinking?

Well i'm sort of serious too, not sure about feb, I need to check return to school dates for my Daughter, but could probably get that covered somehow anyway.



New to this site and keen to tag along on a trip through the Clarence

Welcome to the site Otsa.

[andy mac]

Hey I'm also interested in joining a NI invasion of Clarence, but not until Easter. Adding another 2 days will give plenty of time to also do the Reefrton area - Big River, Napoleon Hill, Denniston :yes:

[Underground]

MMM I'll see if I have any cash left for a knobbly after the DB ,
Gotta keep the SI numbers up !

[Racing Dave]

How steep is the climb up to Blind saddle from the inland Kaikoura Road? Does it compare to the Porika, or New Creek to denniston tracks at all?

Sorry about the delay in replying, but I've been in Blenheim on the Yamaha Safari.

Steepness of Blind Saddle? Doable on any bike (inc 990). On the Tenere I rode it was mainly 2nd gear, first around the tighter bends - not because of the slope but to be able to safely keep left in case of oncoming. The track is narrow, but again no narrower than any similar (Lake Sumner along the shore). Nothing like Porika, smoother than Denniston. Really, the whole track is such a delight, it would be a shame not to go.

The river crossings are all firm based and none of the stones have any slime. When we went the depth was no greater than a footpeg, although there is the odd boulder strategically placed to catch you out if you leap before you look. Less tricky than Okuku River in Lees Valley. The normal precautions apply.

Cheers,
Dave B

[ducatijim]

I'm keen to hear RD's take on the climb up Driving Spur to Blind Saddle too

Cheers R


Sorry I had to be the one to ask.....

[ducatijim]

Sorry about the delay in replying, but I've been in Blenheim on the Yamaha Safari.

Steepness of Blind Saddle? Doable on any bike (inc 990). On the Tenere I rode it was mainly 2nd gear, first around the tighter bends - not because of the slope but to be able to safely keep left in case of oncoming. The track is narrow, but again no narrower than any similar (Lake Sumner along the shore). Nothing like Porika, smoother than Denniston. Really, the whole track is such a delight, it would be a shame not to go.

The river crossings are all firm based and none of the stones have any slime. When we went the depth was no greater than a footpeg, although there is the odd boulder strategically placed to catch you out if you leap before you look. Less tricky than Okuku River in Lees Valley. The normal precautions apply.

Cheers,
Dave B

Thanks Dave, great info!

[Howie]

Sorry about the delay in replying, but I've been in Blenheim on the Yamaha Safari.

Steepness of Blind Saddle? Doable on any bike (inc 990). On the Tenere I rode it was mainly 2nd gear, first around the tighter bends - not because of the slope but to be able to safely keep left in case of oncoming. The track is narrow, but again no narrower than any similar (Lake Sumner along the shore). Nothing like Porika, smoother than Denniston. Really, the whole track is such a delight, it would be a shame not to go.

The river crossings are all firm based and none of the stones have any slime. When we went the depth was no greater than a footpeg, although there is the odd boulder strategically placed to catch you out if you leap before you look. Less tricky than Okuku River in Lees Valley. The normal precautions apply.

Cheers,
Dave B

Thanks for the reply Racing Dave, sounds like it is a really worthwhile place to visit. Hope the Yamaha safari went well.

Cheers

Paul

[Pampera]

Hey I'm also interested in joining a NI invasion of Clarence, but not until Easter. Adding another 2 days will give plenty of time to also do the Reefrton area - Big River, Napoleon Hill, Denniston :yes:

I too am tending towards Easter as the date for planning - BART, Mark? .

Suggest when we next get together we could have a planning session? Certainly better than doing it on line where the South Islander's can plan their defence. Doing it off line will mean they have to squander all their resources mounting standing patrols and are in no condition to repulse us when we land at a time and place of our chosing......

Michael

[cooneyr]

I too am tending towards Easter as the date for planning - BART, Mark? .

Suggest when we next get together we could have a planning session? Certainly better than doing it on line where the South Islander's can plan their defence. Doing it off line will mean they have to squander all their resources mounting standing patrols and are in no condition to repulse us when we land at a time and place of our chosing......

Michael

You dont need to plan in secret to repulse us :msn-wink: We'll let you know what the track is like.

Cheers R

[bart]

I too am tending towards Easter as the date for planning - BART, Mark? .


Sorry but Easter's no good for me. Family coming out from England. Missus would have me hanging by the dangly things.

March suits best, but could do Feb at a pinch.

[Howie]

Easter is out for me as well, planning a trip to the western isle then. If the Wgtn/north island riders want to plan a large muti day south island ride, why doesn't someone start a thread about one.

At the moment I am still hoping to get organised enough to head down and join Cooneyr's ride as I am really keen to have a look around here while DOC have access open. It well probably be my only trip south before the Winter due to other commitments.

[junkmanjoe]

yep my trip south is next weekend,,
other than that, it be north island trips,
getting in the south while i can,,,
wish the dusty was next weekend....bugger..
oh well, make my own mini tar baby tour.. of the mighty south....from sea to mountain...back to sea..

JMJ

[bart]

If the Wgtn/north island riders want to plan a large muti day south island ride, why doesn't someone start a thread about one.



You may have missed the point Howie. As per the first post in the thread, we have 3 opportunities to go and have a look at this reserve.

Feb 5-7 (waitangi weekend)
Mar 5-7
Apr 2-4 (Easter)

We are at this stage trying to figure out when would suit us Northerners to have a look. We would coincide this with another 'invasion'. :banana:

[Howie]

You may have missed the point Howie. As per the first post in the thread, we have 3 opportunities to go and have a look at this reserve.

Feb 5-7 (waitangi weekend)
Mar 5-7
Apr 2-4 (Easter)

We are at this stage trying to figure out when would suit us Northerners to have a look. We would coincide this with another 'invasion'. :banana:

Cheers Bart, somehow the April dates had slipped my mind. Must be old age creeping up on me.

[bart]

Cheers Bart, somehow the April dates had slipped my mind. Must be old age creeping up on me.

No worries Howie. Us young buggers make the odd slip up too. :shutup:

Anyway, this looks like an excellent chance to see a part of the country that most don't get to see. I'll be making an effort to get there whatever the date (don't tell the missus).

[Crim]

Again, another newbie to the site (and to a KLR) used to live in Kaikoura, Clarence reserve is an awesome place so keen as mustard, in the process of trying to talk a couple of mates into it as we speak (DR Big and old Transalp) - keen for the Feb dates - will keep an eye on the thread and maybe hook up either at the gate or in Kaikoura

[junkmanjoe]

OOOHHH jatz mate, another big in the nabour hood....

JMJ

[Padmei]

Jeez how long does it take for you northislanders to pick out what frocks you're gonna wear each morning?

[Box'a'bits]

Do you REALLY want to see us go 'Emporers New Clothes' style?

No on second thoughts, don't answer that (I already know the answer...)

[Crim]

I have just seen your article in the KiwiRider, Racing Dave, looks awesome - all it has done has made me more keen (if that was possible) - my two mates are both worried that their bikes are too big, could this be done on an old Transalp and a Dr Big?

[Racing Dave]

...my two mates are both worried that their bikes are too big, could this be done on an old Transalp and a Dr Big?

Absolutely, with one very important proviso. As I mentioned in the Kiwi Rider article, in the wet these tracks would be just awful. The clay is so sticky it'll clog your tyres and any low mudguard.

However, there were (literally) only three patches of mud like the one in the photo in KR, they are only about 10 metres long, and the weather's been dryer since we went. The rest of the tracks were hard and un-rutted. It's a fabvulous place to spend a day.

[marks]

so....

which lower NI riders would be interested in heading down for the Feb one (apart from Howie)?

I don't think I can do the other dates

[cooneyr]

I have just seen your article in the KiwiRider, Racing Dave, looks awesome - all it has done has made me more keen (if that was possible) - my two mates are both worried that their bikes are too big, could this be done on an old Transalp and a Dr Big?

I'll be taking a KTM 950 S so you'll have big bike company. I'm sure the trailie boys will leave us behind but who cares ;)

Cheers R

[bart]

so....

which lower NI riders would be interested in heading down for the Feb one (apart from Howie)?

I don't think I can do the other dates

I'm innnnnnnnnnnnn

[cooneyr]

Righty O seems there is enough keen people we be doing this on the 6th of Feb leaving Kaikoura at 9am. For those that are going to ride up from Chch in the morning I'd suggest we need to leave the Peg (pub just before the motorway) at 6.30am. It is roughly a 2 hour trip to Kaikoura and we need a bit of time to fuel up when there.

Cheers R

[andy mac]

so....

which lower NI riders would be interested in heading down for the Feb one (apart from Howie)?

I don't think I can do the other dates


I'm innnnnnnnnnnnn

:yes: Me too.
I have to be in Wgtn on Sunday so after the ride would go thru to Picton to catch the Saturday 10pm ferry. But I can get leave the week before.

[Pampera]

so....

which lower NI riders would be interested in heading down for the Feb one (apart from Howie)?

I don't think I can do the other dates

Sorry - as advised elesewhere - I am out for this date. Have a ride with friends (as opposed to you lot!) to and from the Classic Festival at Pukekohe that weekend - via a night at the Whangamomona Hotel. Might try for the March weekend.
Enjoy.
Michael

[Padmei]

Ooowwww twist that knife while it's between the shoulderblades why don'tcha Michael

[The Pink Panther]

The Panther is keen . dame now have to remove the 17" rims and go back to dirts for a weekend have a track day on the 14th , will talk to the old boyz am shore a super 10 and a fat africa twin may wana pull a wheelie or
too with the other fat bikes . whats the km between gas stations when we go in ? if i have to carry 5L of fuel then so be it , i gather that makes me a fat bike? come on Skinny Birdman the KTM is strong now.

[Crim]

G'day - nearest fuel in Kaikoura - 25ks from entrance - 150 ks of tracks (max) in the reserve - if you need to maybe take a can in, fill up at sign in and leave it with the DOC staff (I am sure with a chocolate fish or two they may oblige) for use on way out, if needed.

[Fluffy Cat]

I'am keen will check if I have that weekend off...what date is it?.
This could be cool as I haven't crashed there yet.

I can now read 6th Feb...right?.

[Howie]

so....

which lower NI riders would be interested in heading down for the Feb one (apart from Howie)?

I don't think I can do the other dates

Well i'm still hoping to make it down for the feb dates


I'm innnnnnnnnnnnn


:yes: Me too.
I have to be in Wgtn on Sunday so after the ride would go thru to Picton to catch the Saturday 10pm ferry. But I can get leave the week before.


Friday - 8-9am ferry - molesworth - hamner
saturday - hamner - clarence river - hamner
sunday - hamner - rainbow - nelson - mungatapu - ferry -home or preferably


is this what you are planning on doing Mark? although it sounds like the Maungatapu is still closed!



I've stayed in Hanmer here (http://www.hanmerspringsaccommodation.co.nz/) serveral times and they are well proced with plenty of cabins etc

Is this your planned accomodation, as it looks fairly good, and seems to have something to suit most budgets. Plus we can have a soak in the hot pools after a days riding if we're not to worn out.


What are your guy's thoughts? and are any other North Island people planning on going down?

[helglen]

hi, yes im keen for the ride :)

[cooneyr]

hi, yes im keen for the ride :)

No worries. Assuming your going to bring your 450 you might want to get to the start of the track a bit earlier and get geared up i.e. 9am as we are leaving Kaikoura (we will be about 20 mins behind you). Check out the links in the first page for a map of where we leave from. Also a google map here (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=-42.416297,173.630161&daddr=Inland+Kaikoura+Rd&geocode=%3BFS5Bef0dFY9XCg&hl=en&mra=mi&mrsp=0,1&sz=14&sll=-42.402608,173.620462&sspn=0.049499,0.131922&ie=UTF8&ll=-42.384289,173.584328&spn=0.099028,0.263844&z=13).

Cheers R

[cynna]

baby sitter all sorted, bike still in one piece after the dusty so im all set for the 6th - just have to wake up in time

[bart]

OK northerners. What's the go. Anyone got any idea about ferry times, accomodation etc.

I need to book my leave from work.

[XF650]

I can't make the Feb dates so will be looking at March / April options, if anyone else is interested.

[Howie]

OK northerners. What's the go. Anyone got any idea about ferry times, accomodation etc.

I need to book my leave from work.

Tend to agree Bart that it's time we sorted out what we are doing, as like you I need to sort out my leave soon. Andy indicated above that he has to head home straight after the Clarence ride, so if we are going to extend the ride by a day or two does before hand suit the North islanders? or are we just going to go for a down and back ride? I would be quite happy to head south on the wed, or thur, and home on the sunday. What we do with the extra day/s I don't really mind as I haven't ridden many of the Adv routes in the south island.

Iideas for extra days that I have are any of the rides around reefton, or maybe a day in Canterbury, as plenty to do there as well. I would like to do at least the molesworth, or rainbow, or both if they can be fitted in.

Cheers

Paul

[marks]

sorry to dick all you NI guys around.

Its now highly likely that I won't be able to make the Feb date and probably won't make the March or April dates either. SHMBO wants to go on a south island holiday in March (in a car :no:) and that will most likely use up all my spare dosh.....

[bart]

sorry to dick all you NI guys around.

Its now highly likely that I won't be able to make the Feb date and probably won't make the March or April dates either. SHMBO wants to go on a south island holiday in March (in a car :no:) and that will most likely use up all my spare dosh.....

Poor bugger. You could always take the bike on a trailer.

[Padmei]

Poor bugger. You could always take the bike on a trailer.

Mate I bet that would go down like meat in a mosk. :lol:

Marks if you're passing thru Nelson on your trip you are welcome to borrow Gonzo for an outing if you get withdrawals.

[andy mac]

It looks just like Howie, Bart & me? Bad luck Marks & Straun. My suggestions for our itineary would be –
Tuesday – travel down on 9pm Bluebridge, travel time 3 hours 15 min, overnight in Picton. Or Bart can stay at my place & we catch 8am Wed ferry.
Wednesday – Picton, Queen Charlotte Dr, Maungatapu track, Nelson, St Arnauld, Porika, Braeburn, Murchison
Thursday – Murchison, New Creek/Denniston return, Reefton, Big River, Napoleon hill, Reefton
Friday – Reefton, Lewis Pass, Hanmer, Rainbow return, Hanmer
Saturday – Hanmer, Kaikoura, Clarence, Hanmer. I’m booked on the 10.30 ferry.
Sunday – Hanmer, Molesworth, catch 2pm or 2.25, 6.05, 7, 10.25 ferry.
What do you think?

[Padmei]

I would be a bit careful planning anything around rivers such as the Mackley etc due to the heavy rain we've been having. Unless you're bringing a compressor & a few truck size tubes of course (BTW do truck tyres still have tubes nowadays???)

[Howie]

sorry to dick all you NI guys around.

Its now highly likely that I won't be able to make the Feb date and probably won't make the March or April dates either. SHMBO wants to go on a south island holiday in March (in a car :no:) and that will most likely use up all my spare dosh.....

No worries Mark, I did the cage trip round the top of the south island in October last year, with my significant other, and a couple of teenagers. It was worth doing.


It looks just like Howie, Bart & me? Bad luck Marks & Straun. My suggestions for our itineary would be –
Tuesday – travel down on 9pm Bluebridge, travel time 3 hours 15 min, overnight in Picton. Or Bart can stay at my place & we catch 8am Wed ferry.
Wednesday – Picton, Queen Charlotte Dr, Maungatapu track, Nelson, St Arnauld, Porika, Braeburn, Murchison
Thursday – Murchison, New Creek/Denniston return, Reefton, Big River, Napoleon hill, Reefton
Friday – Reefton, Lewis Pass, Hanmer, Rainbow return, Hanmer
Saturday – Hanmer, Kaikoura, Clarence, Hanmer. I’m booked on the 10.30 ferry.
Sunday – Hanmer, Molesworth, catch 2pm or 2.25, 6.05, 7, 10.25 ferry.
What do you think?

I wasn't thinking of having Wednesday off, but can probably organise my leave and child care around that if necessary. I would however go south via the inter islander as I get a discount fare on it, but could arrange to meet somewhere in the south island, if the bluebridge suits your plans/cost better.
For Napoleans hill, and denniston we would have to ring about access before we head down, so would need to decide before then. I would also like to ride over the Maruia saddle road as I haven't been there yet.

However I am willing to wander off and do my own thing on less technical roads/tracks while you and Bart tackle the really challenging ones.


I would be a bit careful planning anything around rivers such as the Mackley etc due to the heavy rain we've been having. Unless you're bringing a compressor & a few truck size tubes of course (BTW do truck tyres still have tubes nowadays???)

I did the Denniston New creek ride 2 years ago, and we got through the Mackley River with ease, but it was probably a drier summer. What other interesting rides are there that don't involve large/deep river crossings. What is the road/track from Denniston to Mt Rochfort like, and isn't there another Plateau further up the coast towards Karamea that you can get up to as well?

[ducatijim]

[QUOTE=Padmei;1129621054]Mate I bet that would go down like meat in a mosk. QUOTE]

Its Mosque Paddy!

And, I think you'll find its more like a 'pork chop in a synagogue', as theyre all meat eaters but strictly no pig!!:Police:

[ducatijim]

So we; me, Drbandit and Muzza will have company on the 6th then?

[bart]

Recent landscaping has come in WAY over budget, so my 'fun' fund has shrunk considerably. Who would have thought building a new deck would cost that much.:shit: Should have left the back section looking like a paddock.

I'll try to get sorted for the March or April runs (but I don't like my chances).

[Pampera]

I'll try to get sorted for the March or April runs (but I don't like my chances).

Bart,
I am trying to scheme something up for either the March or April (Easter) weekeend openings. If it is the March one it will be a focussed "in and out" exercise with no annual leave or side excursions taken. Down on Friday evening ferry. Ride on Saturday or Sunday and home Sunday afternoon. Picton Friday night and Kaikoura Saturday night. Otherwise will have to wait and hope this opening to vehicles exercise is repeated by DOC next "summer" (assuming there is a summer at the end of 2010).
Michael

[joshkies]

Count me in i have to see the pom ride again cos that is well worth seeing lol. so will see you all at the peg at 6.30am on the 6th feb.

[thepom]

I,ve almost healed so I ll be ready to break something new again.Took the ankle killer givi rack off and have fitted some progressive front fork springs( not that they are going to help me stay on) and cynna is coming too( always helps me pick up the bike )....should be good fun....

[Howie]

Right the new tryes are on, fork oil changed, new wheel bearings in the front wheel, Air filter cleaned, oil about to be changed, and new brake pads ordered. Probably on the ferry Thursday morning.

Where abouts in Kaikoura well the Chch folk be Fueling up?

What routes are those from the Nelson area planning on taking?

cheers

Paul

[Padmei]

What day are we riding Sat or Sun?

[NordieBoy]

Sat I think.

[Transalper]

Yep, info I have is leaving Kaikoura at 9am Saturday... don't know which garage from.
I'll probably be driving my Van in aiming to be at the entrance to the reserve by 9am and unloading the CRF, priming the camera etc.

[Padmei]

Ok & what knd of riding is it generally? Dusty forestry roads or Big river type stuff or mud or combo?

[NordieBoy]

I'm going with the popular tyre combination of a road rear and bald knobbly front.

Although I can get a brand new(ish) MT21 rear for $100 - Only done 1 beach race on the front of a GSXR.

[Fluffy Cat]

Was that the one on Rabbit Island?...if so it was funny. Whats the riding like on this one???

[Transalper]

Ok & what knd of riding is it generally? Dusty forestry roads or Big river type stuff or mud or combo?

Most of us have never been there so makes it a bit hard to answer.
If you look back through the posts, I think Dave posted something on the topic of terrain earlier.

[Racing Dave]

Ok & what knd of riding is it generally? Dusty forestry roads or Big river type stuff or mud or combo?

If it's dry, the vast majority is hard clay track, without significant potholes or ruts. Rideable on any bike, and I recommend proper knobblies.

At the very downstream end of the track that follows the Clarence River, there is some steepness and ruts where dickheads have driven 4WDs in the rain.

On the upstream track, 3 or so short mud holes, although they may be dry by now. Some pugging by cattle.

On the main track, once over the Seaward Kaikouras, 6 km of river bed, on a formed track but with many river crossings, some bouldery. Look first!

If it's wet, a road tyre or bald knobby will have you in tears - the clay is sticky and slippery.

None of the riding is fast, but the scenery is magnificent.

Cheers,
Dave B

[Underground]

I'm going with the popular tyre combination of a road rear and bald knobbly front.
Didnt know I was that popular , Lucky the conditions look like they're going to be hard and fast .

[thepom]

I can feel the tears forming already but I now have progressive springs AND a front sprocket one tooth down on normal and had good fun on the waimak today....

[helenoftroy]

Would love to be doing this but fingers & thumbs still numb....

Least my mighty DR will be there....Skinny Birdman at the helm!!:scooter:

[Skinny_Birdman]

Would love to be doing this but fingers & thumbs still numb....

Least my mighty DR will be there....Skinny Birdman at the helm!!:scooter:

As per PM, you are a legend HoT. We are thinking we will stay in Chev on Friday and Saturday nights, and shoot over the Hundalees on Saturday AM. Mrs B. will be bring the Tranny, and we will most definitely be pootling along at the back. If we (Mrs B. and I) get down to where the tracks fork (about 2km SE of the Herring/Seymour - Clarence confluence) I will be well chuffed.

We did the tenure review survey of Muzzle Station back in '06 and drove in as far as Ravine Hut (on the other side of the Clarence) in 4WDs. We got a puncture on the way over Blind Spur, there are lots of nice pointy rocks so make sure you bring tyre changing kit! We also had to clear a couple of slips, the geology over there is pretty unstable. As RD said a couple of pages ago, if it's raining, it's game over. I think it was where the track drops down into the bed of the Herring/Seymour that the first really slippery part started. It rained as we were leaving, and we were about ready to fit chains as there was just no traction. Thankfully the rain stopped after about 1/2 an hour, and the tracks dried out sufficiently to allow safe travel after about 3 more hours. We were a bit worried, because we were down to the last of our food - the stuff that you don't eat unless you have too!

It should be awesome.

[NordieBoy]

So I may have to do a tyre change then :(

Got a new MT21 front waiting for the CCA and 1/4 of an MT21 rear...

Don't like the rear but the carcass would be ideal for sharp rocks.

[Padmei]

Hmmm yeah
I may have to be weather dependant too as my 606 front is looking a bit rohooted & the 09 rear isn't nice in the wet.

[Woodman]

Depending on brownie point status i may (may) be a starter for this. will have to be a one dayer from here though. Looooong day that.

[Fluffy Cat]

So what route are we going to use to get there?. If it's rough I will have to use the BRP. Sore butt for meeeee!!!!.:shit:

[NordieBoy]

Safest/quickest 1 day route would be seal all the way

[Underground]

will have to be a one dayer from here though. Looooong day that.

You wont be alone with that , It'll take me best part of 4 hours to get there from here ......Crikey I'll have to make a start at 5am !!

[Fluffy Cat]

You think the Michi AC10 will make it???. We are safe now....what happened?????.

[NordieBoy]

We are safe now....what happened?????.

The council found there's some stones in the Maungatapu.

[The Pink Panther]

wont make it replacing rings and valves on the ktm , you guys leaving the peg at 6.30 for there is 3 guys that will head up with but are not on KB forum .i gather one of the guys on a ktm will meet up at salt water creek.

[cooneyr]

.....Where abouts in Kaikoura well the Chch folk be Fueling up?...

I figure we meet at the BP garrage in Kaikoura. Most obvious one.


What day are we riding Sat or Sun?

Saturday.


wont make it replacing rings and valves on the ktm , you guys leaving the peg at 6.30 for there is 3 guys that will head up with but are not on KB forum .i gather one of the guys on a ktm will meet up at salt water creek.

Gidday P. I'll keep an eye out for them. I'm guessing the XTZ750 rider is the one who joined us when we went into Lake Sumner a while back?

Cheers R

[Underground]

Has anyone checked on the 'openness' of the Clarence road re fire risk ?
When we talked to the Molesworth ranger last time we were through there they were getting concerned, but that was prior to the rain we had a couple of weeks back.

[cooneyr]

Has anyone checked on the 'openness' of the Clarence road re fire risk ?
When we talked to the Molesworth ranger last time we were through there they were getting concerned, but that was prior to the rain we had a couple of weeks back.

Just rang DOC South Marlborough. Lady had not heard anything about it not opening. Proceed as planed and I'll ring them again on Thursday to double check. If anybody has any other more local contacts it might be worth a call.

Cheers R

[Howie]

I figure we meet at the BP garrage in Kaikoura. Most obvious one.
Cheers R

Cheers for that, all going well Andy Mac and myself well be waiting there, from about 8.30.


Just rang DOC South Marlborough. Lady had not heard anything about it not opening. Proceed as planed and I'll ring them again on Thursday to double check. If anybody has any other more local contacts it might be worth a call.

Cheers R

Can I pm my cell number to someone, as we are leaving Wgtn early Thur morning, and could they let us know by text if it's not going to open?

[cooneyr]

.....Can I pm my cell number to someone, as we are leaving Wgtn early Thur morning, and could they let us know by text if it's not going to open?

Check your PM's.

Cheers R

[Woodman]

Ok I am out of this one, may have to see if one of the other weekends is available.

Fcuk

[Fluffy Cat]

Sorry to hear that Woodman, Nordie are you still going?. Or are there rocks over there as well?.

[NordieBoy]

Still going so far. Saturday forecast for Kaikoura is showers.

[Fluffy Cat]

Now that is suckomoto........

[cooneyr]

Still going so far. Saturday forecast for Kaikoura is showers.

Don't know where you get your forcasts from but both Metvuw and Metservice have Sat as a rain free day. Looking good for remainder of week too so hopefully not to slippery for us big pig riders.

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Was "fine with chance of afternoon showers" on Metservice this morning.

[Fluffy Cat]

Hey guys would my 990adv be able to do this on the standard pirelli tyres?. Or is that a nono.

[Box'a'bits]

Hey guys would my 990adv be able to do this on the standard pirelli tyres?. Or is that a nono.

Sure....

Can someone please make sure they record this?

[Fluffy Cat]

Cool, cheers for that. If me tyre for the xr turns up I could take that. If it doesn't then I can use the orange crush....hehe decisions, decisions. Hmmm,,,, mahnn!!! this could take days or even months to decide......AAAAAHHHHH. Red bike or orange bike, orange bike or red bike:oi-grr::crazy::eek5::wacko:

[JATZ]

So what time you Nelson fullahs thinkin of heading off ?
Me and The Boy are thinkin of heading away about 4 on saturday:gob:

[Padmei]

So what time you Nelson fullahs thinkin of heading off ?
Me and The Boy are thinkin of heading away about 4 on saturday:gob:

I may stay at the inlaws in blenheim on Fri nite - just to shorten the morning ride. Could you toot as you go past the driveway so I can put the coffe cup in the sink & saunter out to the bike....

[NordieBoy]

Sure....

Can someone please make sure they record this?

All sorted <img src=http://photostorage.nelson.geek.nz/smiley/video.gif>

[NordieBoy]

Jenni & I am going to cruise over on Fri and park up somewhere in the camper.

So Padmei, where do I drop by for coffee again?

[JATZ]

I may stay at the inlaws in blenheim on Fri nite - just to shorten the morning ride. Could you toot as you go past the driveway so I can put the coffe cup in the sink & saunter out to the bike....

Horn not working, prolly best if I come in and grab a cup of that coffee. Just to make sure it's fit to drink :D

[Fluffy Cat]

So anyone riding from Nelson?, would be good to ride down with someone....How long does it take to get there?.
Looks like the tyre is on the way should be here Thurs, XR650r crashtastic bike could be good.

[NordieBoy]

250km to Kaikoura.
2:45hr at the speed limits.

We can meet up in Blenheim by the sounds of it.

130km from Blenheim to Kaikoura (1:45)

Kaikoura at 9am = 7:15am start from Blenheim or 6:15am start from Nelson (at legal speed limits) not counting refuelling times...

[andy mac]

The bike is loaded & I'm just about out the door to meet Howie at the ferry. We are going thru the Rainbow to Hanmer Springs. On Friday - Lake Sumner & exploring north to Kaikoura. CU there. :scooter: :scooter:

[Wibbitty]

I am interested in joining a ride to the Clarence Reserve if anyone is goin this wknd

[NordieBoy]

I am interested in joining a ride to the Clarence Reserve if anyone is goin this wknd

We're meeting at the petrol station in Kaikoura at 9am on Saturday.
Not sure when the guys are leaving ChChCh but it'll be in this thread somewhere.

[cooneyr]

I am interested in joining a ride to the Clarence Reserve if anyone is goin this wknd

We are leaving the Peg pub at 6.30 and then leaving the Kaikoura BP at 9. Should be at the reserve turn off at 9.15ish.

Cheers R

[Lugzy23]

Right ive had a chance to read the thread. See the guys leaving Chch at the peg on Saturday morning 0630

[Crim]

Two of us ('05 KLR and a middle age Dr Big) going up to Kaikoura tomorrow from ChCh see you at the Kaikoura BP or at the reserve on Saturday

[The Pink Panther]

The skinny birdman has convinced me to go, top end rebuild will have to wait another weekend. helglen and me may stop at cheviot for gas if it's open CHCH to Kaikoura 188 km my highway gearing range should make
230 km but helglen range will be less , we may leave Peg earlier to allow for inflight refueling , have yet to work where my jerry can will go. Super Ten Dave should make it and maybe a fat Africa twin see yah at the peg.

[The Pink Panther]

The skinny birdman has convinced me to go, top end rebuild will have to wait another weekend. helglen and me may stop at cheviot for gas if it's open CHCH to Kaikoura 188 km my highway gearing range should make
230 km but helglen range will be less , we may leave Peg earlier to allow for inflight refueling , have yet to work where my jerry can will go. Super Ten Dave should make it and maybe a fat Africa twin see yah at the peg.

[Fluffy Cat]

Where do you want to meet in Blenheim as ugg not been there much as its the other side of the world. XR is looking good no tyre yet, but its ready for a good crashing....

[Underground]

Looks like me and you Fluffy Cat (and posibly some jatz'es) my bike is in town and I'm thinking of leaving bout 5 and caning it through to maybe Kekerengu and having one of them nice breakfasts .
Then a leasurely cruise into Kaikoura for gas ??

[Fluffy Cat]

Works for me, where do you want to meet? even better if I have heard of the place...The xr has bunks so I am going to be in the back snoozing with the bike on auto cruise.

[JATZ]

Me and the boy are gunna take off tomorrow after work..ish, find a spot on the beach somewhere for the night.

[Underground]

Works for me, where do you want to meet? even better if I have heard of the place...The xr has bunks so I am going to be in the back snoozing with the bike on auto cruise.
If the xr has bunks then the africa has a stateroom ,I'll be carving my way through the morning in luxury.
Mobil collingwood 5am

[junkmanjoe]

Me and the boy are gunna take off tomorrow after work..ish, find a spot on the beach somewhere for the night.

would you like me to guide you to the beach in the dark mate............................
let me know if there is glowing stuff in the sand there, like the west coast..

JMJ

[Fluffy Cat]

Have PM'ed you my numbers, will see ya at the Nelson, Collingwood St, Mobil Petrol Station....thats if it hasn't moved overnight.

[NordieBoy]

I'm now leaving from Nelson Sat morning.

Collingwood St Mobil 5am...

[Fluffy Cat]

Cool....just need me tyre, fingers crossed.

[JATZ]

would you like me to guide you to the beach in the dark mate............................
let me know if there is glowing stuff in the sand there, like the west coast..

JMJ

Nah she's right pal, there's a nice wee stand of pine trees just south of Kaikoura we may head for, saves taking a tent.
I'll check out the sand for ya and report back

[JATZ]

I'm now leaving from Nelson Sat morning.

Collingwood St Mobil 5am...

Oh Noooooo, what happened ? couldnt you untie the van from the carport :dodge:

[NordieBoy]

Oh Noooooo, what happened ? couldnt you untie the van from the carport :dodge:

The carport is meant to look like that. Leaning in to the sea breeze.

Jenni is cruising over Sat and we're spending the night over there.

[cooneyr]

I've rung DOC again this morning and all is good to go.

See you all somewhere on the trail.

Cheers R

[Eddieb]

I hope you lot are taking lots of photo's, some of us sad bastards who can't get out need to live vicariously through others.

[rogerh]

I hope you lot are taking lots of photo's, some of us sad bastards who can't get out need to live vicariously through others.

+1. Sad but true.

[Padmei]

Well I think I'm out of tommorrows ride.

I finally this afternoon found what the intermittent noise was from the rear end. It was 5 or so rollers absent from the chain!!! Any way got myself a new chain & fitted it. Couldn't for the life of me get the outside link on & the clip so put just the clip on thinking the link must be redundant. Well anyway bikes down the end of the driveway, master link is somewhere in the flaxes & I'm tired of working on it for the week.

Have a good one guys.
sob sob...

[cynna]

damn bike just came fell off its sidestand and bent my brake lever - i lowered my levers to make it easier to ride standing up but never got round to dropping my barkbusters..... doh

didnt break just bent a bit (fits my hand better now!!) so will still be able to make the ride

[Fluffy Cat]

Hehe, tyre arrived and have now fitted it. With this tyre I will conquer the world. Nothing will stand in my way....I feel a crash coming on. See ya at 05:00 hours.

[bart]

Hehe, tyre arrived and have now fitted it. With this tyre I will conquer the world. Nothing will stand in my way....I feel a crash coming on. See ya at 05:00 hours.

Go hard guys. Wish I was there. :weep::weep::weep:

[Padmei]

Well Jatz & the boy called in with a few spare links. We finally got one to fit only to find the chain was twisted. Never mind.
I sent them off to get Maccas in Blenheim & they're camping in a grass verge somewhere.

Good fellas the adv lot.

[Ally67]

Well Jatz & the boy called in with a few spare links. We finally got one to fit only to find the chain was twisted. Never mind.
I sent them off to get Maccas in Blenheim & they're camping in a grass verge somewhere.

Good fellas the adv lot.

Bummer well theres always next month.
Jatz and The Boy stopped at Kekerengu for some shuteye about 1am.
I bet The Boy was up at sparrows fart ready to go.
Hope they have a good days ride and The Boy stays in the saddle more than on the DB :yes:

[Padmei]

Bummer well theres always next month.
Jatz and The Boy stopped at Kekerengu for some shuteye about 1am.
I bet The Boy was up at sparrows fart ready to go.
Hope they have a good days ride and The Boy stays in the saddle more than on the DB :yes:

Yep the boy was itching to go. Good to see dad & boy sharing a bike trip.

I reckon they'll just be heading in there now or ordering another coffee so Jatz can have another durrie ( maybe an open face helmet for his birthday would be the go)

[Ally67]

Yep the boy was itching to go. Good to see dad & boy sharing a bike trip.

I reckon they'll just be heading in there now or ordering another coffee so Jatz can have another durrie ( maybe an open face helmet for his birthday would be the go)

Jatz txt me from Subway (so I will hear how bad the coffee was when they get back:crazy: )
A helmit like yours then he's got the best of both.He'll have to start smoken tailies though.
Buts that won't slow him down.Best he sticks to rollies then I have time to catch up :yes:

The Boy was packed and ready to go when we got home from work (something you don't see everyday a teenager thats ready before you are :clap:)

[Transalper]

We got very hot and dusty and there were a whole lot more of those fantastic views.
Very tired now, too tired to type anymore today.

[Underground]

Very tired now,

Im still awake (just)
Just arrived home, somehow managed to ride for the best part of 17 hours yet only covered 690km (now thats a nice sounding number)
Had an awesome day

[NordieBoy]

totally buggered. too tired to try and post from this cellphone...

[Underground]

well heres a little taster for you
Crim's mate on DrBig (Sorry forgot your name) ,and andymac styling it up on a couple of the crossings
nordieboy entering the gnarlier one (getting wet was very desirable considering how hot it was)
and the scenic shot ...well we went down there somewhere :woohoo:

194541194540194539194538

[JATZ]

:woohoo: Absolutly shattered, what a day.
I'll post some more tomorrow when I can see out of my right eye and am a little more conscious :yes:
"Maungatap closed"..... Hah, I laugh in the face of closed :devil2:

[helenoftroy]

Those shots look fantastic!

Great you guys had a good day.....bring on the photos

I hear Daniella(Mrs Birdman) had a great day & hope I get to ride with her soon:woohoo:

A handfull of us did the Leader Rd thru to Kaikoura on the road bikes today...hot enough on the coast must have been a scorcher where you guys were!!:sunny:

[thepom]

It was cooking in there,I am now over my fear of river crossing.s and only had a small mishap with the bike falling off the stand and a close call with the gnarly crossing in the the previous post. It was,nt the water that was the problem just the steep and rocky entry and exit point.

Good to see john and son who looks like he has lots of skill and of course to cynna who I,m sure will post aforementioned incident....

It was good to finish with a beer at robbies with josh and mate and then for an easy ride back to chch...for such a short distance ride it gives you a real good workout....l

[Fluffy Cat]

Mahnn!...That was a whole heap of fun. What a great bunch. Very cool ride, have a load of photo's, just need to make them smaller?.

[Fluffy Cat]

Some photos. Have more on 't' way.

[Fluffy Cat]

Hehe more. Ahhh..what a day. Need rubber.....mounts for the handlebars.

[Fluffy Cat]

Hope I haven't doubled up any.

[Woodman]

looked like absolutely no fun at all. Glad i stayed at home now.


Whens the next one?

[buggsubique]

well heres a little taster for you



Phew, glad I didn't go - it looks shit...... nope that doesn't make me feel any better. Very very jealous. Great pics!

[Padmei]

Yeah trailering my bike to the shop was heaps more fun.

[Transalper]

Short note from my GPS Track log, it shows I did about 105km from the carpark spending 6 hours 14 minutes in there.

[Underground]

194587194586194584194583194582

Bikes all looked nice an clean for a start , about 21 of them I think .
I'm still getting gobs of congealed dust out of my eyes ,but odly enough most of the photos are of bikes splashing through nice clean water

[junkmanjoe]

Great trip guys. looks like a stunning place..
cooneyr how the ktm go, no trouble.

dave and i stopped at the same PB for fuel when we were down there..

JMJ

[Fluffy Cat]

Good to see you survived Undertheviceofcoffeyground. Nice pics dude.

[umopom]

Another great day - thanks coonyer for suggesting/organising - and good to meet up with you guys again.
Cheers
JC

[Underground]

194606


Good to see you survived Undertheviceofcoffeyground. Nice pics dude.

No worries mate. Heres one just for you :laugh:

[JATZ]

In no particular order

[JATZ]

Couple more

[veny]

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=194539&d=1265449628
Boulders and the paparazzi :crazy:

Nice photo's!
:)

[Skinny_Birdman]

Nice pics guys! Our camera got a bath in Herring/Seymour and is now kaput, so no piccies for us:pinch:. We had an awesome day, and got as far as Goose Flat. Mrs B. even got in a swim in the Clarence at the Seymour Hut - it was a mite too chilly for me, though I did ford it on foot at one point. Thanks to all the kindly folk who texted to ask if we made it out, I guess we were the last out at around 4:15 (left Goose Flat at 2:10 - not bad for a novice rider on a big fat Transalp, I reckon). Thanks to R for letting us know about the open weekends! And a huge thanks to HoT for lending us the DR - it rocked.

Cheers
A

[Crim]

Great day - thanks for the suggestion Ryan and organisation (and sweeping behind after Steve's bike got a little "dodgy") Cheers, Crim

[cynna]

didnt want to get stuck in there after the gate was locked so only ended up doing the longer loop. will have to head back in there next time to do the shorter track

[cynna]

i got stuck in a rut near the end of the track then kenny had a little sidestand incident which can be seen in the previous post

[NordieBoy]

My photos...
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<p>Your browser does not support iframes.</p>
</iframe>

[cooneyr]

.....cooneyr how the ktm go, no trouble.....

Just one little issue - I boiled the rear brake so didn't have it for 2/3 of the ride. Combination of the steep hills, lack of air flow (didn't get our of first much), hot day and catalytic converters. New fluid went in at Kaikoura and then rode home with no worries. Had one little "rest" but nothing major. Pretty happy overall but no doubt a 250 would have been easier.

Pics to come.

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

With videos...
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[cooneyr]

Sorted - Click the image to view a slide show.

<a href="http://s171.photobucket.com/albums/u295/cooneyr/Clarence%20Reserve/?albumview=slideshow" target="_blank"><img src="http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u295/cooneyr/Clarence%20Reserve/DSC00769s.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

Cheers R

[Transalper]

Doesn't work for me, but when I click the View All button I get a new Photo Bucket Window which does work.

[The Pink Panther]

Cheers all for the great ride , thanks conneyr
will post the video i got when i climbed a ridge looking down on bluff dump caught a few riders coming up, nothing great but you get a bit of perspective.

[thepom]

So pink panther ,it was you on top of the hill
.We thought you had run out of fuel and it was,nt till we were moving off that josh spotted you on top of the hill,damn I knew I should have taken a picture of you cos you looked tiny!
shit that climb must have been murder in that heat.
We waved at you so I hope you seen us......

[NordieBoy]

Clarence altitude profile...
195306

[thepom]

great pictures NordieBoy ,sorry I never got to meet you as I picked up a top tip about using a piece of wood for jacking up the bike for oiling the chain or changing a rear tire. Got any tips as to how to lift up the front end?....

[Fluffy Cat]

So, after looking at Google Earth. Is it possible to cross the Clarence head over that range to the Molesworth, eh, eh. Or just not for ADV bikes?.

[Woodman]

Got any tips as to how to lift up the front end?....

Drop the clutch in first gear and pull back on the handlebars.

[cooneyr]

So, after looking at Google Earth. Is it possible to cross the Clarence head over that range to the Molesworth, eh, eh. Or just not for ADV bikes?.

Interesting idea. Can get about 10 km down stream from Acheron Cobb Cottage and then it looks like it might get a bit rough for 10km, then 3km of track, then rough again for 4km then tracks all the way to the coast except have to cross near where we were playing in the shallow water (could possibly get lift with farmer).

Cheers R

[Fluffy Cat]

Starting to sound like a plan....could be a big ADV ride. Would need a mid-flight re-fuel at some stage.

[NordieBoy]

Got any tips as to how to lift up the front end?....

Lay it on it's side...

[Woodman]

Is there a track? It would be cool if there wasn't a track.

[Howie]

Here's a few action shots, as most of the scenery ones I took are fairly similar to those already posted.

[Howie]

And a few more of Crim.

195332195333195334

I enjoyed getting over there, but wasn't feeling the best, and think I must have been suffering a bit of de-hydration, as I drank the 2 1/2 lires of water I had with me, and about another three during the evening back in Kaikoura. The third reasonably warm day of riding in a row caught up with me.

[thepom]

Like this...http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=194728&d=1265518592

[andy mac]

Hey, that was a excellent ride guys & I really enjoyed it (except for the dust)

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Pretty happy overall but no doubt a 250 would have been easier.

I left Stoney Flat first to avoid eating dust & could hear the KDX175 behind me. That encouraged me to fang it hard & it was great fun until I wiped out in a downhill rut. Which was probably a good thing as soonafter we met some oncoming 4WDs.
I then did the 20km track to Palmer Hut. It was climbed over one hill & down to the Willows historic hut, across a dry riverbed then up & over another hill to Palmer hut. Meet the horse trekkers who were on a 3 week trip - those horses have a great fuel range.
Was out at the gate at 4:40 where Howie was patiently waiting since I had the motel key.

[NordieBoy]

Or Aussie KLR style...
195375

[andy mac]

1 Nordieboy
2 Cooneyr
3 Zigzag ascent to Bushy Saddle
4 Howie
5 Willows historic hut
6 Jatz big country

[NordieBoy]

Damn :(

Because of this ride I missed seeing the Killacycle run an 8s pass at the Mot drags.


Oh well. It would have been too hot standing around in the sun all day anyway.

[andy mac]

7 View south from Palmer hut
8 View north from Palmer hut
9 View north from Blind Saddle

[andy mac]

Damn :(

Because of this ride I missed seeing the Killacycle run an 8s pass at the Mot drags.


Oh well. It would have been too hot standing around in the sun all day anyway.

I was chatting to a dragster at the ferry terminal. He ran 8.6secs at 160mph on a worked a Hayabusa. Sorry too slow, you are eliminated!

[NordieBoy]

I was chatting to a dragster at the ferry terminal. He ran 8.6secs at 160mph on a worked a Hayabusa. Sorry too slow, you are eliminated!

A funny car there ran a 6.66s exhibition pass.

[Transalper]

A good coverage of the ride in all the short vids and pictures.
Excellent to see.

As for myself, well a new connected mic is a must before the coming CCA.
I burned about 5 hours on Sunday and all my free time last night until 1AM aligning and attaching the externally recorded audio to the video so it's finally ready to start trimming... along with the half done Capital Coast and Dusty Butt and all the rest of the older projects.

[Underground]

Just a couple more , Jatz looking out for the boy and fluffy cat not falling off in the water .

195410195409


Hey, that was a excellent ride guys & I really enjoyed it (except for the dust)

Good to see you made it back to the 'little island' Andy , with the bike in one piece this time too.

[The Pink Panther]

i was filming you guys coming up the road. i heard it go all quiet when you got to me bike i filmed a bike tooting at me when you carried on pass me bike lol . it was a bit off a mission to get up three times i thought i had got
to the top, it was a little windy up there which kept me cool it took 20-30 min but it was worth it .
the photo is what the fence looked like all the way up... well what was left of it!

[The Pink Panther]

the video i took plus my 1300 km Xmas adventure where i went up the Hopkins Valley. If any one is keen to head up the Hopkins let me known or the Dobson . Snow melt was gona make the cross tricky i was by myself river splits down stream,
and 500 m up is where the Huxley river meets so the flow was high ?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbL8jeB9-DY

[The Pink Panther]

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[Piglit]

Woo Hoo! What a great weekend, really enjoyed the ride down and riding in the dark was a great experience!
Staying on the beach was great, and the nice early morning ride along the coastline was stunning.
The ride itself was great. A wonderful experience, and that last 6kms to (rock flat.. stoney flat... whatever it was called...) was great and a bit challenging at times but fun all the same :)
Thanks to Ryan for organising the weekend, it was alot of fun for myself :)

[mattsdakar]

Okay for those (like me) who couldn't make this trip and for those that want to do it again, I'm starting a new thread for Saturday 6March

[cynna]

anyone else going this weekend?

[Padmei]

Is it raining over there? If so don't even think about it (unless of course you have very good knobblies& like theodd deep water crossing )

[NordieBoy]

The north branch is the worse for steep clay stuff.

[cromagnon]

Has the slip been cleared on the north branch?

[cynna]

havent checked the weather yet but just rang doc and the open weekend is still on and the slip on the north side has been cleared....

if the weather is ok im leaving chch early to meet thepom in kaikoura at 9am

[waynzz7]

Okay for those (like me) who couldn't make this trip and for those that want to do it again, I'm starting a new thread for Saturday 6March

Myself and a friend will be keen for the march date..Looks like an awesome fun ride :yes:, keep us posted closer to the date..

[cynna]

Myself and a friend will be keen for the march date..Looks like an awesome fun ride :yes:, keep us posted closer to the date..

...that was march 2010 - my fault for dragging up an old thread

the 2011 dates are "7 January to 9 January 2011; 28 January to 30 January 2011; 25 February to 27 February 2011, road and weather conditions permitting."

[1KTM]

...that was march 2010 - my fault for dragging up an old thread

the 2011 dates are "7 January to 9 January 2011; 28 January to 30 January 2011; 25 February to 27 February 2011, road and weather conditions permitting."

could you please tell me how to get into the clarence river entrance is it the inland kaikoura road because the band of brothers adventure tours are coming down there in february do we have to ring doc? is the 25feb and the 27 feb the only times i can go into the reserve.

[Crim]

could you please tell me how to get into the clarence river entrance is it the inland kaikoura road because the band of brothers adventure tours are coming down there in february do we have to ring doc? is the 25feb and the 27 feb the only times i can go into the reserve.

yes it is only open on specific weekends see
http://www.doc.govt.nz/about-doc/news/media-releases/4wd-weekends-coming-up-in-clarence-reserve/
and a bit of a surf round here will give you the info you need - about 20ks along the inland road (north side) but maps on the doc site as well - awesome place

[NordieBoy]

There's a DOC guy parked up at the entrance with a sign-in book etc. Can't miss him.

Ask him if his truck battery is charged :innocent:

[thepom]

Me and cynna just got back........awesome..... truly awesome...pics to follow soon...

[cynna]

just about had the place to ourselves apart from a few 4wds and umopom and his mates

tracks in great condition, slip has been cleared, sun was shining - just wish it wasnt a 2 hour ride there and back. next time will have to make it an overnighter

[Padmei]

Cool place aye Cynna. Good pics.

[Fluffy Cat]

Great pics, wish I could go:yes:.

Nordi are you going up the munga again tomorrow?.
If you are I would like to tag along if my eye has healed up enough that is. Eye versus stick.....stick won. I was wearing safety goggles to. Sometimes the shit is just going to happen.......:facepalm:

[ADVGD]

Is anyone planning to do the 25th February to 27th February 2011 dates?

[Buddha#81]

just about had the place to ourselves apart from a few 4wds and umopom and his mates

tracks in great condition, slip has been cleared, sun was shining - just wish it wasnt a 2 hour ride there and back. next time will have to make it an overnighter

Fook Col someone keep ruining your photo's by parking a stunning bike in shot!

[Crim]

Is anyone planning to do the 25th February to 27th February 2011 dates?

Still working on it with the boss - but would be keen to have another look in there - I am sure you'll get some company no problems!

[alane]

Is anyone planning to do the 25th February to 27th February 2011 dates?

YEP! Couple of us Norf IS. guys ,doin it on the way back from the D.B.:yes:
(Might take a 4wd van in too!!:woohoo:

[cynna]

YEP! Couple of us Norf IS. guys ,doin it on the way back from the D.B.:yes:
(Might take a 4wd van in too!!:woohoo:

they are supposed to check to see if you have chains for your 4wd but im not sure if they do but bring them if you have got some


Is anyone planning to do the 25th February to 27th February 2011 dates?

i could be persuaded - hows your bike going? is the gearbox all sorted now?

[alane]

[QUOTE=cynna;1129952007]they are supposed to check to see if you have chains for your 4wd but im not sure if they do but bring them if you have got some


:yes:YEP! I have------&--------:yes:YEP! I will.

[TangoCharlie]

Went through there on Sunday. Road is great, climb up and down to Blind Saddle is a bit of a test of nerve if you you travel at speed as the penalty for getting it wrong is significant!

DOC were great and very low key. Scenery is outstanding.
River levels was very low so no issues....

[Crim]

Is anyone planning to do the 25th February to 27th February 2011 dates?

Looking like a mate and I might be keen for a ride up first thing Sat - stay in overnight have a decent look round and then a ride back Sunday - will keep in touch

[The Pink Panther]

The Old boyz on there 640s and myself on the burg are going in on Feb and staying at the Palmer hut we checked it out last yr Things too Take in... Beer, Fishing Rod, More beer, and some bread.

[1KTM]

The Old boyz on there 640s and myself on the burg are going in on Feb and staying at the Palmer hut we checked it out last yr Things too Take in... Beer, Fishing Rod, More beer, and some bread.

Im doing it on 25 of feb be 4 of us

[cynna]

anyone going this weekend? i might head along on saturday if can find a baby sitter and get a chance to go over my bike

we be taking it nice and easy and checking out the scenery

[thepom]

Sadly Im on holiday on the 21st of feb till 28th so will give it a miss as must stay with her indoors!:msn-wink:

Cynna...just asked her indoors if I can go sat and she said yes so might be up for it after all.....or we can do the malings and edwards pass track s as we have been to clarence before and the journey time is a little bit shorter.....

[Padmei]

we be taking it nice and easy and checking out the scenery

Mwahahahahahaha

[Underground]

anyone going this weekend? i might head along on saturday if can find a baby sitter and get a chance to go over my bike

we be taking it nice and easy and checking out the scenery

Me ! Possibly 2up as my pillion is missing the bike after not doing the DB with me this time .
May actually find accomodation in Kaikoura so we dont have to do the 4 hours or so home afterwards .

[cynna]

looks like im out - found a couple more things on the xr that need fixing from the dusty butt

waiting for some engine bars on the tenere - havent had a good run in staying upright so dont want to tempt fate....

[Buddha#81]

looks like im out - found a couple more things on the xr that need fixing from the dusty butt....

need anything.......PM me, I'm not using the xr for some time, so grab what ya want!

[thepom]

Shit ...can I have a go?.....looks easier to start!.:bleh:

[Underground]

We're still going in ,looks like it may be damp Fri night so will head to Kaikoura for Sat nite and go in on Sunday

[XF650]

If I can sort my shit in time I'm looking to trailer up the DT Sat night, tag with Jeff Sunday & trailer back Sunday night.
Got space on the trailer if any other Cantabrians are keen.

[chainsawbike]

I'm keen if you are willing to put up with a probably under-equipped newb (to day trips) on a klx250

[XF650]

I'm keen if you are willing to put up with a probably under-equipped newb (to day trips) on a klx250

Sent ya a PM

[Padmei]

I'm keen if you are willing to put up with a probably under-equipped newb (to day trips) on a klx250

Nah don't worry he's used to looking after experienced over prepared riding Gods. He caters for everyone.



BTW where's my fricking GS - you told me 2 days Struan:baby::lol: