Otaki Gorge, Grundys, Thompsons, Manakau ridge run [Archive]

stormtrooper

28th December 2010, 13:21

Anyone keen on a ride before or just after new year through Grundys and Tompson Track?
Not really for begainers and will be limited in numbers as i dont really want to take a big pack of bikes in.
There is some really fun off road riding in there and a bush lunch will be on the cards.
Start will be at Waikanae and up the otaki gauge road with an exit at north Manakau road, the ride will take the best part of the day.
For those interested could have a BBQ at the end of the ride in Waikanae and tenting space avaible for people that want to stay over and maybe do Odlins and pram track the next day.

STORMTROOPER

MXNUT

28th December 2010, 16:01

stormtrooper

28th December 2010, 16:09

Hey mate yep keen to do after new year, depending on how many want to do the ride i will post up a start date.

stormtrooper

30th December 2010, 07:22

Added some pics of Grundys track when i last went in there.

Fryin Finn

30th December 2010, 08:19

I'd be quite keen to come along and meet some others. Have a couple of mates who might be keen too.
Did Odlins Road on the 27th a bit wet and a good challenge in places but fun.

dino3310

30th December 2010, 10:42

Added some pics of Grundys track when i last went in there.

:drool: nice:yes:

stormtrooper

30th December 2010, 11:57

I'd be quite keen to come along and meet some others. Have a couple of mates who might be keen too.
Did Odlins Road on the 27th a bit wet and a good challenge in places but fun.

:drool: nice:yes:

Heya Fryin Finn, sure will be leaving from Waikanae so the bikes will have to road legal, keep an eye on the thread and i will post up a start date, i am thinking sunday the 2nd or monday the 3rd.
Let me know the numbers
Cheers
STORMTROOPER

Dino mate when are you comming down for a blast and afew beers:drinkup:

STORMTROOPER

dino3310

30th December 2010, 12:07

was gonna seak down sometime next month bro but shit happened http://www.facebook.com/update_security_info.php?wizard=1#!/photo.php?fbid=479408193882&set=a.479408188882.258181.671868882&notif_t=photo_comment

stormtrooper

30th December 2010, 12:17

MXNUT

30th December 2010, 12:37

dino3310

30th December 2010, 13:02

Stop making feeble excuses Dino and HTFU.:violin::violin::violin:

im feeling the need for a man hug :hug:

junkmanjoe

30th December 2010, 16:23

hi there where would be your meeting point.

this track no worse than odlins or a bit tamer..

JMJ

stormtrooper

30th December 2010, 22:43

hi there where would be your meeting point.

this track no worse than odlins or a bit tamer..

JMJ

Hey Joe, meeting point will be the coffee cart main road waikanae SH1
The grundys track is a bit tamer than odlins and the tompsons track gets tricky in places and turns to riding on rock half way up which is the hard part manly due to the bouncing around on the bike but it opens up at the top and there is a cracker lookout, comming down the other side is slow and steady then opens out to a milled pine forest with very easy riding down to the exit point at North Manaku road.

Nothing you cant handle Joe

STORMTROOPER

junkmanjoe

31st December 2010, 07:58

okies. we see what day you come up with.

Fryin Finn

31st December 2010, 08:51

I'll be sure to keep an eye on this thread Let us know date and time for meet. I have a road legal DR650 and my mates are on XT600's. One of them has confirmed his interest and I've yet to get in touch with the other. He hasnt ridden his XT off road yet but has done plenty of Enduro's etc.

junkmanjoe

31st December 2010, 10:11

He hasn't ridden his XT off road yet .

maybe best to bring my camera................:shit:....:facepalm:...:shut up:

JMJ

stormtrooper

31st December 2010, 14:05

junkmanjoe

31st December 2010, 14:43

lets go lets go but hopefully not sunday.....sea diving sunday...

MXNUT

31st December 2010, 15:31

I am hanging out for another blast, so sunday is good for me.:scooter:

dino3310

31st December 2010, 17:51

lets go lets go but hopefully not sunday.....sea diving sunday...

more of those undersized rappa crays aye

junkmanjoe

31st December 2010, 18:00

more of those undersized rappa crays aye

how many would you like.....:innocent:

buggsubique

31st December 2010, 19:25

could be keen. watching with interest.

dino3310

31st December 2010, 19:29

how many would you like.....:innocent:

couple my lunch would be nice, chuck some ice in the panniers and drop em of:yes:

stormtrooper

1st January 2011, 09:07

OK the plan is to meet at the coffee cart in Waikanae SH1 at 9.30am Monday the
3rd of Jan
Let me know if you can make it cheers

STORMTROOPER

Fryin Finn

1st January 2011, 09:22

I'm good Sunday or Monday - Brent can't make it - he's in Auckland and I'll need to tell Bully once a meet time is fixed. Tow ropes are allways a good idea.
I think I rode Thompsons track on a Horowhenua trail ride back in 04 it was a very wet day. But not sure about having done the other tracks.
Lets get this thing on the road - or off it.

Fryin Finn

1st January 2011, 09:23

9:30 Monday - got it.

junkmanjoe

1st January 2011, 09:47

Rodger that..09:30 coffee cart.... one or two sugars....
lets get ready to rumble....:scooter:

JMJ

Waihou Thumper

1st January 2011, 10:24

Too early for me, would have to come down tomorrow......:shit:

MXNUT

1st January 2011, 15:55

OK the plan is to meet at the coffee cart in Waikanae SH1 at 9.30am Monday the
3rd of Jan
Let me know if you can make it cheers

STORMTROOPER

Right, see you then.

Where is the ride going to finish ( what area ), and do you have a rough idea of the time.

I may look at heading North straight afterwards.

Waihou Thumper

1st January 2011, 16:03

I will be there if Joe gets back to me....I plan on riding down tomorrow, doing some exporing, camping out on the wild back lawn of Joe's and riding with you guys next day.....Weather looks Very promising....:)

Waihou Thumper

1st January 2011, 16:08

OK the plan is to meet at the coffee cart in Waikanae SH1 at 9.30am Monday the
3rd of Jan
Let me know if you can make it cheers

STORMTROOPER

Yep....Me and Joe will be starters aye Joe?
JOE?, yes?....:)

stormtrooper

1st January 2011, 16:47

Right, see you then.

Where is the ride going to finish ( what area ), and do you have a rough idea of the time.

I may look at heading North straight afterwards.

Heya ride will finish up at North Manakau road and back onto SH1 south of Levin, time maybe 4pm, this is depending on how well we get through it. There is an option for riders that want to do the pram track and odlins to camp over in Waikanae and do the second leg on Tuesday the 4th of Jan

junkmanjoe

1st January 2011, 16:56

dose it take most of the day to ride through..

Waihou Thumper

1st January 2011, 16:58

dose it take most of the day to ride through..

Shouldn't think so...BUT, we got a DR with us and a Tenere, so who knows...:)

Waihou Thumper

1st January 2011, 17:00

Was there special access required or are the roads/tracks available for all? Just wondering for the future...:yes:

stormtrooper

1st January 2011, 17:08

ok sounds like its all happening, the plan is for the ride to take the best part of the day and at the end if people want to they can stop off in Waikanae for a BBQ and afew cold ones, theres plenty of room to sleepover for those that want to do the second leg the next day just PM me and let me know.

Hey Joe you might have to bring some of those crays over for the BBQ mate

STORMTROOPER

Waihou Thumper

1st January 2011, 17:12

junkmanjoe

1st January 2011, 17:17

[QUOTE=stormtrooper;1129944570]ok sounds like its all happening, the plan is for the ride to take the best part of the day and at the end if people want to they can stop off in Waikanae for a BBQ and afew cold ones, theres plenty of room to sleepover for those that want to do the second leg the next day just PM me and let me know.

Hey Joe you might have to bring some of those crays over for the BBQ mate

STORMTROOPER[/QUOTE

sorry there all spoken for.....im guessing we are entering the otaki forks to start the ride..

stormtrooper

1st January 2011, 18:33

Yep Otaki forks to start the off road section, this entree, exit point was discovered last time i was in there and it will take us to the Grundys Track which i have only maped out 80% so still some new bits to explore:woohoo:

STORMTROOPER

buggsubique

2nd January 2011, 15:24

Anyone want to ride over from the Hutt through the Pram Track to Why Cannae as a warm up? Meet at Rimutaka Caltex 8.15 am if you want to join the caravan of courage.

stormtrooper

2nd January 2011, 15:58

Hey Buggs you comming over for the ride tomorrow? sure had a blast last time, this one could brake a few more mirrors so be prepared.

buggsubique

2nd January 2011, 16:24

Yeah mate, will be there....need a break from working around the house! Have new mirror at the ready and have been mucking around with acetone for repairing my plastics... Front rim is bit rotten so hopefully it will hold out till new one arrives. See you at the coffee cart.

MXNUT

2nd January 2011, 16:43

Anyone want to ride over from the Hutt through the Pram Track to Why Cannae as a warm up? Meet at Rimutaka Caltex 8.15 am if you want to join the caravan of courage.

Hey Buggs i am in Papakowhai at the moment and that route sounds much more interesting than SH 1.
Will see you at caltex in the morning.

buggsubique

2nd January 2011, 16:52

Hey Buggs i am in Papakowhai at the moment and that route sounds much more interesting than SH 1.
Will see you at caltex in the morning.

Sweet Bro, see you there!

stormtrooper

2nd January 2011, 19:41

OK talked to the local farmer and hes given the thumbs up:yes:

junkmanjoe

2nd January 2011, 19:45

Hi guys, Mark here on Joe's comp...
We will both see you all there in the morning, I will have a flat white and Joe will have a Latte....Cheers...:) 0930 sharpish....

stormtrooper

2nd January 2011, 19:52

Hi guys, Mark here on Joe's comp...
We will both see you all there in the morning, I will have a flat white and Joe will have a Latte....Cheers...:) 0930 sharpish....

Yep see you there.

OK this is the list attending.

NZKTM
Fryin Finn
Mxnut
Junkmanjoe
Buggs
Gloves
Stormtrooper

stormtrooper

2nd January 2011, 19:59

Might be a good place for a bite to eat tomorrow:yes:

junkmanjoe

2nd January 2011, 20:03

there is 2 others coming from the rapa as well,

JMJ

dino3310

3rd January 2011, 10:02

Yep see you there.

OK this is the list attending.

NZKTM
Fryin Finn
Mxnut
Junkmanjoe
Buggs
Gloves
Stormtrooper

i'l be there in spirit :laugh:

buggsubique

3rd January 2011, 17:26

Holy fucken shit that was awesome. I just walked in the door after listening to the Dazed & Confused soundtrack over the Akatarawa rd...buzzing from that and to top it all off, my wife tells me to put my feet up and she brings me dinner and a cold beer!!:woohoo: She Rocks!!

Shane, primo ride mate. One of the best I have done. Hard, but rewarding. and hard. No time for latte's, so that was a bonus. I'm fucken knackered. Look forward to seeing pics.
:drinkup:

stormtrooper

3rd January 2011, 17:32

Home safe and sound, great to catch up with the people that came on the ride i think there was 11 in the end and all managed to keep there bikes in tacked after a very testing ride through some of the best off road tracks i have been on for some time.
A big cheers to the guys that made the ride a real fun day out it was magic.

STORMTROOPER

Pics to come

junkmanjoe

3rd January 2011, 21:30

there is a story behind this massive boulder...........
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_nRRVy1LvPzw/TSGJVuE6gZI/AAAAAAAAANw/qsuigSju0og/s512/IMG_0497.JPG

buggsubique

3rd January 2011, 22:03

there is a story behind this massive boulder...........
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_nRRVy1LvPzw/TSGJVuE6gZI/AAAAAAAAANw/qsuigSju0og/s512/IMG_0497.JPG

And make no mistake...it was a MASSIVE boulder!

junkmanjoe

3rd January 2011, 22:05

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_nRRVy1LvPzw/TSGJOGAtVGI/AAAAAAAAANs/_wN6FAzkehs/s512/IMG_0496.JPG

JMJ

Waihou Thumper

4th January 2011, 06:16

T'was a magic day and the pictures and videos do not lie...
I waited for everyone until about 1600. I saw the bridge down and then saw a pth for you fellas to the left, between the blocks. So, some of you might have got your feet wet....
I carried on home, made it back about 2130, so it was a long road home for me. I really enjoyed the day out, the track was 'technical'....:)
I did get some great footage, mainly of the Tenere laying horizontal, so I will post that up soon.
Thanks for the help fellas....:)
I got back to the farm, saw a couple of beauties on horses, I may have been dreaming by that stage but...
I talked to them and they gave me details on how to exit the track. I ended up at locked gates at the quarry, so went through a nice deep creek which was walked gingerly across. :shit:
I made it out okay but had to touch base with the landowner as his wife said to say hello. Turns out their son races bikes and will be a Paeroa street races, he is presently racing overseas.
All n all, a frikking fantastic ride...:woohoo: For 95% of it I was loving it, for the other 5% of it, the Tenere could have just stayed there and rotted along with the old boiler...:) (Naa. Just joking...) Thanks Shane for an awesome day and great company lads, thanks Joe for the cot and a really nice chicken pasta for dinner after my long ride down through those back roads......:)
There sure were some 'Tui' moments on both days for me........Cheers!

227777 A well earned Break!
227778 A well earned break also...:)
227779 Repairs to the Brake after the little tumble.....
227780 A well earned re-group....
227781Mark looking a little worse for wear....More photos and video to come guys.

stormtrooper

4th January 2011, 08:47

Hey Mark glad to see you got out and home alright, bugger you missed us at the other end.
It was fun riding with you mate, cheers for posting some of the days action.

STORMTROOPER

dino3310

4th January 2011, 10:43

. :shit:
227781Mark looking a little worse for wear....More photos and video to come guys.

geeze mate your fading away, you gotta start eatin some pies(works for me) :lol:

Waihou Thumper

4th January 2011, 11:02

geeze mate your fading away, you gotta start eatin some pies(works for me) :lol:

Thanks mate. I find if you ride 700-800Km days mate, you don't get the time to eat or drink pisss, therefore it is a good weight loss ptogramme...
AND yesterday I must have lost a lot.....weight from sweat..:) F..K, it was hard on the ole girl....loaded up. :) and boy...you will see by the vids mate...
Doing these now.

Waihou Thumper

4th January 2011, 13:56

The first video....This was taken with my little AEE camera pegged to my back pack chest strap. The quality isn't the best but I have more coming.....Enjoy....:)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IF1cCJgpcSg

stormtrooper

4th January 2011, 15:01

Here is a couple of pics, one of buggs and the other of mark going through a big mud puddle about 20mins into the ride.

Waihou Thumper

4th January 2011, 15:04

There is more......:)
AND still more to come guys......

http://vimeo.com/18411639

Waihou Thumper

4th January 2011, 15:07

Here is a couple of pics, one of buggs and the other of mark going through a big mud puddle about 20mins into the ride.

was it really that deep? :) Great shots........Makes me look like a rider afteralll.....(maybe.....)

stormtrooper

4th January 2011, 15:44

some more on Grundys Track

Waihou Thumper

4th January 2011, 15:47

Judging by the photos and the video, it looks like a doddle....:)

stormtrooper

4th January 2011, 17:07

Sleeping on the job, i dont know how you can do it Joe:gob:
Great riding with you mate

junkmanjoe

4th January 2011, 19:18

ride by feel................feeling the ferns smacking me in the face.

gloves

4th January 2011, 20:15

After a day of recovery that was one hell of a blast with group of top blokes :woohoo:

stormtrooper

5th January 2011, 07:08

Near the top of tompsons track, had just been through some really ruff bits of track and lost the xt600 down there somewhere :shit:

We got him back:woohoo:

Fryin Finn

5th January 2011, 08:53

Great ride guys - The DR lapped it up but cleaning it I noticed a ding in the rear wheel (more air in tyre next time please) I only fell off once but I'll never admit to it. Heres some pics reduced in size as I only have dial up at the moment.

dino3310

5th January 2011, 10:44

off topic...but... that screen on the XT is that one of those universal bolt to the handle bars?

gav24

5th January 2011, 11:20

stormtrooper

5th January 2011, 12:56

Good on you Shane - taking the boys out to the ride we explored a few months back. Linking them all up was always on the cards, and Farmer Dave continues to be a great bloke, for access.
Stuck here in the UK still for another 2 weeks, with no bike, or even close to warm enough to go riding anyway, or even any tracks left to ride. NZ is F$*king Awesome, and I cant wait to get back.

Shane, did you take em up to the end of the track at the top of the hill! Or down to Grundy's Hut to show them the view?

Hi Gav, hope things are going well over there, yep stoped at the hut for lunch, check out the vid NZKTM took abit of a battle for some of them to get back up.
Also went to the lookout up that steep hill climb which claimed afew more bikes, but most made it up, keep an eye on the thread theres still more pics and vids to come.
Also found some more tracks to map out, so it will be all go when you get back.

STORMTROOPER

Geronimo

5th January 2011, 15:28

Near the top of tompsons track, had just been through some really ruff bits of track and lost the xt600 down there somewhere :shit:

We got him back:woohoo:

After a few days, my bruises are now starting to show. For an old codger that was a pretty full on ride. At times when riding over a snotty piece I felt I was walking on water and later to be literally lying in water with my bike on me. Thanks for those that helped lift the bike up when needed. A great memorable ride. Cool group of guys. Keep the pics comming.
For the guy that asked about the windscreen, it is a universal Givi type that fits most things.
Cheers.
Gerald.

buggsubique

5th January 2011, 19:24

After a few days, my bruises are now starting to show. For an old codger that was a pretty full on ride. At times when riding over a snotty piece I felt I was walking on water and later to be literally lying in water with my bike on me. Thanks for those that helped lift the bike up when needed. A great memorable ride. Cool group of guys. Keep the pics comming.
For the guy that asked about the windscreen, it is a universal Givi type that fits most things.
Cheers.
Gerald.

Mate, your riding was legendary! Certainly wasn't "old codger" riding you were coming up with! Good stuff and good to meet you.

stormtrooper

5th January 2011, 19:39

Mate, your riding was legendary! Certainly wasn't "old codger" riding you were coming up with! Good stuff and good to meet you.

Yes i can second that, you seemed to glide along with ease like a true pro:yes:

STORMTROOPER

dino3310

5th January 2011, 20:31

For the guy that asked about the windscreen, it is a universal Givi type that fits most things.
Cheers.
Gerald.

cheers Gerald,
it looks good, might look at one for the XR.

Fryin Finn

6th January 2011, 05:57

Heres a few more pics. Coming down the last gnarly part reminded me of the Devils Staircase - makes me think its dooable on the DR but the Rock Garden is a tyre shredder.

buggsubique

6th January 2011, 08:11

Heres a few more pics. Coming down the last gnarly part reminded me of the Devils Staircase - makes me think its dooable on the DR but the Rock Garden is a tyre shredder.

That first pic of the last bit to the summit was it for me - I just couldn't be rooted...haha. It was back to the intersection for a laydown and food for this cat :violin:

gav24

6th January 2011, 08:49

Did anyone 'clean' that section in the first pic on the way up?
It was a bugger when Shane and I first explored this track last year, off camber, always wet, rocky, covered in tree roots. Definately a place where you need a bit of a push from a few friends, hardest section on the track I reckon.
Respect to anyone who had the momentum, skill and luck to make it up that section un-aided!
I hope a few of you guys are up for a re-run when I return to NZ in a few weeks... All this is making me very green and jealous:violin::sick::violin:

stormtrooper

6th January 2011, 11:20

That first pic of the last bit to the summit was it for me - I just couldn't be rooted...haha. It was back to the intersection for a laydown and food for this cat :violin:

Did anyone 'clean' that section in the first pic on the way up?
It was a bugger when Shane and I first explored this track last year, off camber, always wet, rocky, covered in tree roots. Definately a place where you need a bit of a push from a few friends, hardest section on the track I reckon.
Respect to anyone who had the momentum, skill and luck to make it up that section un-aided!
I hope a few of you guys are up for a re-run when I return to NZ in a few weeks... All this is making me very green and jealous:violin::sick::violin:

Yep made it up the first time with you Gav and made it up again on the last ride, its a tricky area and you have to get the right line first time no second chances on this bit.
Its worth it getting up there the views are awsome:yes:

stormtrooper

6th January 2011, 11:24

Heres a few more pics. Coming down the last gnarly part reminded me of the Devils Staircase - makes me think its dooable on the DR but the Rock Garden is a tyre shredder.

Cracker photo of you comming down the hill Buggs, its alot steeper than it looks in the photo

stormtrooper

7th January 2011, 08:41

Heres one getting wipped by the toitoi

buggsubique

7th January 2011, 09:15

Hes one getting wiped by the toitoi

What's with the smoke? Was there a 'massive boulder':shit: stuck in that swingarm too?

junkmanjoe

7th January 2011, 09:51

What's with the smoke? Was there a 'massive boulder':shit: stuck in that swingarm too?

:eek::laugh::killingme:2thumbsup

took two guys to pick it up was so big...............

Oh yea you forgot to tell us about this at the start of the day........................

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_nRRVy1LvPzw/TSGLJCrd70I/AAAAAAAAAOc/o1bmi2ty1hA/s912/IMG_0516.JPG
this chap to the right of the pic... sorry forgot your name.. but you deserve a crate of the good stuff. your efforts and not giving up,, some of it was just nasty..
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_nRRVy1LvPzw/TSGJjL_rQaI/AAAAAAAAAN0/0JhV4zrbqfs/s912/IMG_0506.JPG
good on ya mate...

JMJ

junkmanjoe

7th January 2011, 10:03

buggs mate... man of steel..:apumpin:
for you to drag the big twin around in there...
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_nRRVy1LvPzw/TSGIZUSQYeI/AAAAAAAAANc/zZ6SqFexYY4/s912/IMG_0492.JPG

a true credit to your off road riding skills...:not:

JMJ

Fryin Finn

7th January 2011, 12:22

buggsubique

7th January 2011, 12:56

buggs mate... man of steel..:apumpin:
for you to drag the big twin around in there...

a true credit to your off road riding skills...:not:

JMJ

Thanks mate, it's a love hate relationship :love:. We take turns at dragging each other around....sometimes she wins and ends up on top.

Waihou Thumper

7th January 2011, 13:02

Thanks mate, it's a love hate relationship :love:. We take turns at dragging each other around....sometimes she wins and ends up on top.

Was impressive mate, I agree.....I sucked like a bag of rotten spuds....:)
Despite which, loved the day, loved the couple of days getting there and back actually...:)

junkmanjoe

7th January 2011, 13:07

Was impressive mate, I agree.....I sucked like a bag of rotten spuds....:)

you didnt suck..just wrong bike for the terrain....

was a technical challenging track from the get go...

JMJ

dino3310

7th January 2011, 14:55

you didnt suck..just wrong bike for the terrain....

was a technical challenging track from the get go...

JMJ

you should all buy XRs :laugh:

Waihou Thumper

7th January 2011, 14:56

Two intrepid riders with a pedigree as long as Pharlaps.....decided to head on a little hill climb...:facepalm:
It was steep, loose and stepp...(Oh, I said that already)....The thing is, it hada tight, real tight left turn. Hit it and then button on and hang on......Both riders did it very well and kudo's to Matt and Shane...:) Nice entertainment boys...:woohoo:
The proof is below....enjoy!

http://vimeo.com/18519560

Waihou Thumper

7th January 2011, 15:03

you should all buy XRs :laugh:

One nearly shit itself...BUT, proven bikes they are, kept going and going....:)

stormtrooper

7th January 2011, 16:56

What's with the smoke? Was there a 'massive boulder':shit: stuck in that swingarm too?

Just caught him after a puddle, so i think thats steam your looking at

STORMTROOPER

Geronimo

8th January 2011, 06:23

:eek::laugh::killingme:2thumbsup

took two guys to pick it up was so big...............

Oh yea you forgot to tell us about this at the start of the day........................

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_nRRVy1LvPzw/TSGLJCrd70I/AAAAAAAAAOc/o1bmi2ty1hA/s912/IMG_0516.JPG
this chap to the right of the pic... sorry forgot your name.. but you deserve a crate of the good stuff. your efforts and not giving up,, some of it was just nasty..
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_nRRVy1LvPzw/TSGJjL_rQaI/AAAAAAAAAN0/0JhV4zrbqfs/s912/IMG_0506.JPG
good on ya mate...

JMJ
Hey Joe,
Thanks for your encouraging remarks and help. It's always interesting how various moments / incidents just pop into your brain days later. The obvious shit bit for me was walking my bike down that heavily rutted track after the lookout. Christ only knows how Buggs rode down it. He's a legend. Earlier on, just after Mark left us, a challenging little stretch I cleaned and enjoyed was a 3 metre wide rocky creek crossing followed immediately with a 10 metre uphill rutted rocky climb followed by a left turn. It was all go. Mind you, it always feels great getting through a snotty bit in one piece. Keep cool till after school.
Cheers Joe,
Gerald.

stormtrooper

9th January 2011, 20:53

Found one of Tony going hard:woohoo:

junkmanjoe

9th January 2011, 21:08

wouldn't mind going back in there with dirt bikes one weekend..that be fun.

JMJ.

Hugo Nougo

10th January 2011, 20:39

Just wanted to say thanks for a great day, the xr was damaged but not out, had a loose bolt bouncing around the motor. I will post the vids I took just as soon as I work this site out.

junkmanjoe

10th January 2011, 20:51

are good one was wondering how i was going to find this photo...
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=228545&d=1294648370

JMJ

dino3310

10th January 2011, 21:39

very clever

stormtrooper

11th January 2011, 21:17

Just wanted to say thanks for a great day, the xr was damaged but not out, had a loose bolt bouncing around the motor. I will post the vids I took just as soon as I work this site out.

Bloody amazing you found us mate, after all the hassel with your mate and the flat tyre getting up there and mapping out the ground for the tyre tracks to see where we went, you must have true american indian skills :niceone:

Would like to go on another mission impossible with the XR battle truck.

STORMTROOPER

stormtrooper

11th January 2011, 21:24

wouldn't mind going back in there with dirt bikes one weekend..that be fun.

JMJ.

Hey Joe mate the ktm seemed to run sweet in there, a good workout:apumpin:

Like to go back in there soon and explore some more

STORMTROOPER

Hugo Nougo

11th January 2011, 22:11

Would like to go on another mission impossible with the XR battle truck.Always keen to ride with like-minded people, xr nearly fixed unfortunately I broke the top off my right fibia a couple of days after this ride, she who must be obeyed has banned dirt bikes for a couple of weeks. Look forward to future rides.

MXNUT

13th January 2011, 19:16

Just wanted to say thanks for a great day, the xr was damaged but not out, had a loose bolt bouncing around the motor. I will post the vids I took just as soon as I work this site out.

Hey Hugo nougo, glad you managed to catch up with the rest of the guys and get some riding in. My tyre was flat again by the time i got to Otaki so calling it quits for me was the right choice.
Thanks for all your help in trying to keep me mobile.:niceone::niceone:

Bloody amazing you found us mate, after all the hassel with your mate and the flat tyre.................
STORMTROOPER

The great thing was we were not mates i had only met him that morning.
Amazing what another KBer will do to help out a fellow biker.

It has taken me 2 weeks to get over being so pissed off about missing this ride after seing the photo's and ride report.

I am back down that way at the end of march for the Pukemanu ride so would be really keen to try a re-run then if those dates worked out :blank:

dino3310

13th January 2011, 21:09

1 The great thing was we were not mates i had only met him that morning.
Amazing what another KBer will do to help out a fellow biker.

2 It has taken me 2 weeks to get over being so pissed off about missing this ride after seing the photo's and ride report.
:

1. Fockin aye:2thumbsup well done Hugo
2.:eek::bleh::bleh:

stormtrooper

13th January 2011, 21:50

Hey Hugo nougo, glad you managed to catch up with the rest of the guys and get some riding in. My tyre was flat again by the time i got to Otaki so calling it quits for me was the right choice.
Thanks for all your help in trying to keep me mobile.:niceone::niceone:

The great thing was we were not mates i had only met him that morning.
Amazing what another KBer will do to help out a fellow biker.

It has taken me 2 weeks to get over being so pissed off about missing this ride after seing the photo's and ride report.

I am back down that way at the end of march for the Pukemanu ride so would be really keen to try a re-run then if those dates worked out :blank:

Hey bummer you missed this one, was looking forward to meeting you mate.
looks like a re-run is on the cards with a bit of exploring on some of the side tracks as well.

STORMTROOPER

dino3310

13th January 2011, 21:52

Hey bummer you missed this one, was looking forward to meeting you mate.
looks like a re-run is on the cards with a bit of exploring on some of the side tracks as well.

STORMTROOPER

gee you gotta short memory bro......... KCR ring a bell

stormtrooper

13th January 2011, 22:10

gee you gotta short memory bro......... KCR ring a bell

Hmmm......wait no wait a minute yes i have met mxnut along long time ago
My memory is shot, the KCR wow that was fun would like to get up that way again.

STORMTROOPER

dino3310

13th January 2011, 22:22

Hmmm......wait no wait a minute yes i have met mxnut along long time ago
My memory is shot, the KCR wow that was fun would like to get up that way again.

STORMTROOPER

yeah im hanging out for the next one, the last one was the first trip on the XR so would be good to get back and ride it a little better, + i always get drunk on the KC ride:drinkup:

stormtrooper

13th January 2011, 22:25

yeah im hanging out for the next one, the last one was the first trip on the XR so would be good to get back and ride it a little better, + i always get drunk on the KC ride:drinkup:

yeha whens it happening:drinkup:

STORMTROOPER

dino3310

13th January 2011, 22:27

will have to ask Camp mother:msn-wink:

junkmanjoe

13th January 2011, 22:32

whens the TTTT ride up again..

JMJ

dino3310

14th January 2011, 09:48

whens the TTTT ride up again..

JMJ

228769 .

MXNUT

14th January 2011, 19:56

will have to ask Camp mother:msn-wink:

Yep we be doing it again in April, date to be decided soon, so watch this space :Police:

dino3310

15th January 2011, 12:51

Yep we be doing it again in April, date to be decided soon, so watch this space :Police:

im in, 4 months of physio and i'll be ready :scooter::drinkup::wings:

stormtrooper

18th January 2011, 18:14

Yep we be doing it again in April, date to be decided soon, so watch this space :Police:

Might have to buy a new rear tyre for this one

stormtrooper

14th October 2011, 10:20

Well its time again for some offroad action in the Grundys and Thompsons track.
Ride starts at Waikanae and ends at South Manaku road, this will be a day ride and those who came on the ride last time will know what they are in for.
Its not for beginers and the Thompson part of the track can be tricky in the best of conditions, but its awsome and has some amazing views at the top.
I am only going to be taking in a small group like last time, 10 to 12 riders max.
So those that are interested let me know soon and i will get a list posted up, not sure of the date yet will wait and see what people think.

STORMTROOPER

buggsubique

14th October 2011, 10:31

that was the hardest ride i have done on the africa. Not sure im up for it again...was awesome tho!

stormtrooper

14th October 2011, 10:38

that was the hardest ride i have done on the africa. Not sure im up for it again...was awesome tho!

Mate you made it look easy

andy mac

14th October 2011, 10:39

I'm keen for the challenge.

bart

14th October 2011, 16:48

It might be an overnighter for me, but I'll take the bait.... :corn:

MXNUT

14th October 2011, 16:55

It would definately be an overnighter for me but since i missed out on making the start of the last one, I would be keen to have another go.:sick:

Long as the dates line up :soon:

stormtrooper

14th October 2011, 18:32

Hey, happy to have some stay over plenty of room if you want to pich a tent and for the lucky few you get to stay inside. As far as when is a good time to do the ride, let me know.
So far looks like Andy Mac, Bart and MXNUT are keen starters

pampa

14th October 2011, 21:40

marks

15th October 2011, 17:40

sounds like I might need to chuck the kenda trackmaster back on

count me in - as long as its not the last weekend of this month

stormtrooper

16th October 2011, 16:14

I'm keen and may go but depends on when and most importantly whether I can get a pass :facepalm:

sounds like I might need to chuck the kenda trackmaster back on

count me in - as long as its not the last weekend of this month

Look forward to catching up with you guys, yes Marks i think that Kenda will be a good idea, wont be at the end of this month as i am busy but looking towards November, December.

STORMTROOPER

stormtrooper

27th October 2011, 14:34

Ok guys have talked to the famer and its thumps up.
List so far
Andy Mac
Bart
Mxnut
Mark
Pampa
Blue Klr
Stormtrooper

Have worked out the dates and looks like there are some options
Nov 26-27 or Dec 17-18

STORMTROOPER

Hugo Nougo

29th October 2011, 19:17

Great ride last time (once I caught up) put me down as a starter.
http://youtu.be/GRiDmDUbETk

stormtrooper

31st October 2011, 08:49

Great ride last time (once I caught up) put me down as a starter.
http://youtu.be/GRiDmDUbETk

Great look forward to catching up with you, hey cool vid man.

STROMTROOPER

andy mac

1st November 2011, 09:34

Hey Hugo, really enjoyed your vid especially the Screaming Blue Messiahs soundtrack. Best concert I had ever been to, mumble, mumble 25 years ago :shit:

Fryin Finn

3rd November 2011, 15:12

I really enjoyed the ride last time but got a broken wrist at the moment and don't expect to be back on a bike much b4 Xmas - got a couple of mates who would be interested too.

stormtrooper

6th November 2011, 21:46

I really enjoyed the ride last time but got a broken wrist at the moment and don't expect to be back on a bike much b4 Xmas - got a couple of mates who would be interested too.

Hey mate hope the wrist is on the mend, looking at going in before xmas but i would always be up for another round in the new year

STORMTROOPER

stormtrooper

14th December 2011, 18:41

Ok now that the WAR rides out of the way its time to get this ride back on track.

I have moved the ride to after xmas and looking at Jan 5-6-7 around about, for the riders that have said that they were keen on the earlier date please let me know if this suits.
Thinking that we could incorparate Odlins, Mangatoks, Grundys, Tompsons over two days.

STORMTROOPER

Fryin Finn

29th December 2011, 10:03

stormtrooper

29th December 2011, 14:26

This thread seems to have gone quiet - Is the ride still on? My wrist is still weak as a masterbator with OOS but I have been back riding the DR last week and I'm gonna give my trials bike a go this weekend - after it stops raining (not raining yet though) So if the wrist feels up to it then so will I.
Would have loved to have done the WAR seeing the pics.

Hi there, yes still going in at the start of Jan round the 5th to the 8th will have to pick a good day.
for those that are still keen post up on the thread.

STORMTROOPER

andy mac

30th December 2011, 11:07

Shane, I'm still keen for a 1 dayer.

manakau.KTM

31st December 2011, 15:11

You can count me in on this. If we are exiting from Nth Manakau Rd, I may be able to organise some tea and scones at my place

stormtrooper

1st January 2012, 10:32

Shane, I'm still keen for a 1 dayer.

Yes one dayer, looks like this friday or saturday

You can count me in on this. If we are exiting from Nth Manakau Rd, I may be able to organise some tea and scones at my place
Hi mate we will be exiting from Nth Manakau Rd, so we might have to take you up on the offer.

Ok this is how its looking so far, there are only a small group of us going this time, looks to be around 6, all will need WATER AND FOOD to last the day, bike setup with a full tank of gas and i recommend nobbles, anything less will just spin and make the trip alot harder.
There is a hut in there that we can stop at for lunch and some new trails that need to be explored, there are some fun bits in there and some hardout bits as well so be prepared.

Start time will be 9am Waikanae coffee cart
I will confirm the date very soon it will be one of 6,7,8th Jan

STORMTROOPER

gav24

2nd January 2012, 19:53

Cool, might be in for this one. Just waiting on a date to confirm / organise / beg permissions!
Have you been and spoke to th efarmer about that extra track at the bottom of Thomsons track?

stormtrooper

3rd January 2012, 08:50

bart

3rd January 2012, 20:05

Ok i am keen to go in on Friday the 6th of Jan, weather is looking good.
If this does not work out for people we can make it saturday the 7th.

So until i here otherwise its Friday 6th meet up at the coffee cart in Waikanae at 9am

STORMTROOPER

Sorry guys, but I'm unlikely to make this ride. My exhaust is still held on with hose clamps, my back tyre is rooted (well.... more rooted than usual), the dishwasher just pissed it's water all over the kitchen floor and my DIY plumbing skills didn't fix it (so more bills), and I'm broke after being on holiday and it's a looong time until payday. :(

254392 254393

gav24

3rd January 2012, 20:11

Sweet, Friday is the only day I can make it out of the 2 so I'm in.
I do have to confess to a rooted rear tyre like Bart as well...
See you at 9 on friday Shane, for a real adventure!

andy mac

3rd January 2012, 21:01

OK Friday it is.
Mark_s promises to be discreet in ADV camouflage.
Is there also room for a KLX650?

Bart "nice puncture patch on the dishwasher hose, dude"

bart

3rd January 2012, 21:36

Bart "nice puncture patch on the dishwasher hose, dude"

It didn't work, but I'm not finished with it yet....:msn-wink:

stormtrooper

3rd January 2012, 21:44

Sorry guys, but I'm unlikely to make this ride. My exhaust is still held on with hose clamps, my back tyre is rooted (well.... more rooted than usual), the dishwasher just pissed it's water all over the kitchen floor and my DIY plumbing skills didn't fix it (so more bills), and I'm broke after being on holiday and it's a looong time until payday. :(

254392 254393

We will get you down here one day.
Catch you up on the next one Bart

Sweet, Friday is the only day I can make it out of the 2 so I'm in.
I do have to confess to a rooted rear tyre like Bart as well...
See you at 9 on friday Shane, for a real adventure!

See you there Gav

OK Friday it is.
Mark_s promises to be discreet in ADV camouflage.
Is there also room for a KLX650?

Bart "nice puncture patch on the dishwasher hose, dude"

Hi Andy Mac, see you Mark s and the klx650 on friday

pete376403

3rd January 2012, 21:49

stormtrooper

3rd January 2012, 21:59

I'd like to come and play, how serious do the tyres have to be? I've got moderately worn Shinko 705s on both ends, and a couple of knobblys in the shed, but would rather not change change them if I dont have to.

Edit: just saw post 138 - seems to answer the question.

Hi there Pete,
you are welcome to come along, as for the tyres depends how confident you are on your bike, knobblys are going to make it alot easyer, i would change them over.

STORMTROOPER

Pikey

4th January 2012, 07:22

Off fly fishing on Friday so will miss out :(

Fryin Finn

4th January 2012, 07:56

I'm gonna have to pike out on this one. I was hopefull but my wrist still not up to it - don't want to tempt fate - too much.

manakau.KTM

4th January 2012, 13:06

Sounds great. See you on Friday

gav24

4th January 2012, 19:11

I'd like to come and play, how serious do the tyres have to be? I've got moderately worn Shinko 705s on both ends, and a couple of knobblys in the shed, but would rather not change change them if I dont have to.

Edit: just saw post 138 - seems to answer the question.

there are only a couple of pinch points on this ride - from memory! I'm gonna be running an almost bald Michelin t63, so I'll push you if you push me...

Should be good fun, and always an adventure when Shane's in charge! Cant wait.

stormtrooper

5th January 2012, 19:43

there are only a couple of pinch points on this ride - from memory! I'm gonna be running an almost bald Michelin t63, so I'll push you if you push me...

Should be good fun, and always an adventure when Shane's in charge! Cant wait.

Going bald doesnt sound like much fun!

STORMTROOPER

pete376403

5th January 2012, 19:55

Knobblies fitted, also gone 1 tooth smaller on the front sprocket. Even registered the thing. Anyone bringing a tyre pump? I've got spare tubes (front and rear). And a large roll of duct tape.

manakau.KTM

5th January 2012, 20:02

I'll have some tyre levers and in case the vegetation gets a little close, I'll also pack a pruning saw

gav24

5th January 2012, 20:10

New knobblies, pruning saws - Gonna be one hell of a ride!
My prep has been ..er...taking off the mirrors! - oh yeah, and the pannier racks!
Wondering how deep those puddles are gonna be this time!
See you all in the morning.

stormtrooper

5th January 2012, 20:11

Ok for those attending the ride, i have been around today to get the thumbs up from the farmer and to let him know a group of us will be going in tomorrow, also checked the entry point at otaki and its all good.

STORMTROOPER

stormtrooper

5th January 2012, 20:26

Knobblies fitted, also gone 1 tooth smaller on the front sprocket. Even registered the thing. Anyone bringing a tyre pump? I've got spare tubes (front and rear). And a large roll of duct tape.

Nice one Pete look forward to catching up with you tomorrow

STORMTROOPER

pete376403

6th January 2012, 19:20

Thing I learned today.

KLRs are very top heavy with a full tank of gas.

I'm getting old.

Most people can ride my KLR better than me.

Stormtrooper knows some nice, and some not so nice tracks

Locked gates are not necessarily impassable.

I'm really bloody old.

When people say "leave your bike and walk down there" it's pretty good advice.

And despite the bruises and assorted lumps that were not there this morning, I did have a (mostly) great time today.

Thanks to all for waiting.

Box'a'bits

6th January 2012, 19:28

Thanks Pete. I was waiting to hear how it went.

I'm reasonably comfortable I didn't try to take Gus in there then. Good that you all got out okay..

stormtrooper

6th January 2012, 21:24

Well that ride had the fun factor, there were lots of moments in there where you just had to battle through it, hang on and hopefuly stay on or crash and burn, and there were afew of those.
The track was very overgrown with sliperly moss on the rocks and bloodly branches waiting to smack you in the face and body, it was tuff in there but we made it to the end and the rewards were like being in heaven.

A big thanks to all that came out for the ride it shaped up to be a ripper.
Pics to come

STORMTROOPER

Yoth

6th January 2012, 21:35

Thanks guys, great intro to kiwi riding!! Looking forward to the next one...

stormtrooper

6th January 2012, 21:48

Getting ready to go, and Yoth heading up the first up hill section

gav24

7th January 2012, 10:54

Nice one everyone!
The rewards of finishing a ride like that make it all worth while... Especially the fantastic hospitality at the end. Thanks again Manakau ktm (Wayne? sorry I'm shit at remembering names).
I didnt take any photos, mostly cos I'm crap with a camera and enjoy looking at everyone elses.
Dont think any bike or rider made it through unscathed yesterday! My list is pretty short, cut neck, bruised ribs from those bloody branches, bent gear lever, bent bar clamp mounting bolt, and a repair needed (again) to the indicators. Plenty of new scratches an scrapes to the helmet and plastics as well, "badges of honour" men, "Badges of Honour"!
Think we should send an invoice to the farmer/DoC/whoever for clearing his track so well - bloody trees, bloody mountain bikers! - No bloody problem!
Nice one Shane, although I think that route into Gundy's from Otaki maybe slightly suspect on the legal front...Hmmm! All good in the end though, noone arrested, or shot!

andy mac

7th January 2012, 11:02

Well today my body is telling me that Mt Thompson is a frigging bouncy climb, and top respect to you guys on the 600+ cc bikes for getting your heavy metal up and down the mountain!

andy mac

7th January 2012, 11:19

and more pics

gav24

7th January 2012, 12:21

You know how with photos from rides you usually get some of the worst/best bits after 200, 300, 400 + kms of riding?
Well this ride was all like the pics you see, and theres worse to come in other pics I bet. Not every 10km or so, but ALL like this.
I think my Odo showed about 60kms total from Waikanae to Manakau. And that included the road stuff to Otaki swingbridge on the forks road, and the road from the last of the forestry to Wayne's.
How long did those 60kms take?
8hrs by my watch... Fark! thats 7.5km per hour average - including the 100+km/h road sections.
Thats what I call an adventure ride!
I'm off to the garage now to start the repairs and cleaning...

dino3310

7th January 2012, 12:44

Nice one Shane looks like another good one, one day i'll get my fat arse down there for one of your rides, the photos always get the blood pumping.

manakau.KTM

7th January 2012, 13:09

It was certainly a great ride yesterday, not uneventful. I took a few photos with my cell phone but most of them are pretty average compared to what has been posted.

I have to add that Sarah has iced the second chocolate cake and we have already cut into it.

stormtrooper

7th January 2012, 14:17

Nice one Shane looks like another good one, one day i'll get my fat arse down there for one of your rides, the photos always get the blood pumping.

Hey Dino you are missing out mate, you gotter get down here for the next one.

Some more pics of the ride, this is the first section heading towards Gundys Hut

stormtrooper

8th January 2012, 12:00

More pics stopping at the hut for lunch and meeting up with a bear grills dude with home made shoes and bow and arrows, he was out there on a killing spree:shit:

blb198

9th January 2012, 14:27

hi there looks like an awesome ride are all those tracks linked somehow and has anyone got a map on how to get into them or some directions would be awesome

Mungatoke Mad

9th January 2012, 15:56

hi there looks like an awesome ride are all those tracks linked somehow and has anyone got a map on how to get into them or some directions would be awesomeIts Private Land it pays 2 get the Cockeys Permission first ;); & there in the same area but not connected unless you count the tar seal bits:oi-grr:

blb198

9th January 2012, 18:48

Its Private Land it pays 2 get the Cockeys Permission first ;); & there in the same area but not connected unless you count the tar seal bits:oi-grr:

ok sweet as does anyone know the cockeys ph number or do you just rock on up to his door and ask and by the way we live in upper hutt and do alot of riding around the akas via karapoti so if anyone is going in give us a yell and well see if we can make it

stormtrooper

9th January 2012, 20:07

More pics this is of tompsons track about half way up, lucky we had some small saws with us or it would have been turn around time. Cheers guys for bringing the tools we really needed.

andy mac

11th January 2012, 22:57

pete376403

11th January 2012, 23:17

So pleased to see I wasn't the only one...

stormtrooper

12th January 2012, 00:12

Well i was waiting for that to pop up, sorry about the language there people, just one of those instant reactions when your bike smashes against a rock face:shit:

stormtrooper

12th January 2012, 00:49

More pics of tompsons track near the top

andy mac

12th January 2012, 11:31

And another one bites the dust ...

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/diw6kmeC644?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

stormtrooper

12th January 2012, 12:29

Hey Andy Mac you forgot to mention someone else already had two goes at getting the stock standard klr up there.
Its got to be fun when you get to drop two KLRS in one day:eek:

pete376403

12th January 2012, 22:07

Go on, rub it in... was my KLR that spent almost as much time on its side as on two wheels.

Night Falcon

13th January 2012, 13:24

Go on, rub it in... was my KLR that spent almost as much time on its side as on two wheels.

A KLR on its side is nothing to be ashamed of, they're quite at home lying down....some say they even handle better after a bit of biff :devil2:

stormtrooper

5th September 2012, 09:35

Great ride last time (once I caught up) put me down as a starter.
http://youtu.be/GRiDmDUbETk

Well its getting closer to that time again, see whos keen this time round.

andy mac

5th September 2012, 10:23

Well its getting closer to that time again, see whos keen this time round.

Hi Shane I'm keen. What's your timing as it's probably very wet & greasy now?

MXNUT

5th September 2012, 16:16

Well its getting closer to that time again, see whos keen this time round.

Would really like to make it down for this one, :yes: depending on date etc..... :cold:

manakau.KTM

9th September 2012, 16:40

Hi Shane

I'm keen. I'll keep an eye on the thread. Last time I think it was strawberry season so it must have been a bit drier up there.

Cheers

Wayne

Hugo Nougo

9th September 2012, 18:54

Always keen for a ride, count me in.

stormtrooper

12th September 2012, 09:52

Hi Shane I'm keen. What's your timing as it's probably very wet & greasy now?
No vids of me droping the bike this time, and i might let you come along:laugh:

Would really like to make it down for this one, :yes: depending on date etc..... :cold:
Mate this time you better be here, its a long way to come for the ride so might be able to make 2days out of it and ride some more local tracks

Hi Shane

I'm keen. I'll keep an eye on the thread. Last time I think it was strawberry season so it must have been a bit drier up there.

Cheers

Wayne
Hi Wayne, i am sure there were big fat strawberrys on the choclate cake we ate at yours after the ride, will be good to catch up again

Always keen for a ride, count me in.
Look forward to catching up with you Hugo

Yep i think its going to be wet and slippery in there at the mo, thinking of going in start of November.
Thompson track, after last time i would say VERY EXTREME:shit:but hey thats what makes it fun.