Northern Gravel Adventure Riding Club

[suzieq]

Hi Gravel Road Riding anyone::::
anyone out there wanting to learn some new skills or just improve on what you already know and looking to meet other bikers keen on doing more of this kind of riding:::
I have started a club which has just been posted on the Kiwi Rider website We will have some demos and a mix of exp people who have done a lot of this kind of riding who will assist any who wish to gain some skills Our first ride will be getting to know you and we will build from there So this ride is out to South head and a shortish piece and on the way back will be the back of Riverhead Forest and a loop around So next month we will build on this And each month from there we will do more
Plans in the future will be more and more and further affield also So if you are keen pm me for further info or just come along and meeet some like minded people who enjoy this form of riding 9:30 Starbucks Westage Shopping Centre 22nd May Sunday
As this is a new venture we want this to be a success Amazing how many people I have met who want to do this kind of riding

[young1]

What an excellent idea, it will sure help those riders who avoid the gravel roads and hence miss out on seeing some great parts of NZ. Now where can I find someone who can show me how to corner properly on the tar seal!

[Eddieb]

On a similiar note I've recently created a Facebook page to try and promote Adventure Riding in NZ to a wider audience, there's still more riders in NZ that aren't on KB that there are on it so I thought I'd try and cast the net wider.

Check it out at http://www.facebook.com/AdventureRidingNZ and feel free to contribute.

[unstuck]

On a similiar note I've recently created a Facebook page to try and promote Adventure Riding in NZ to a wider audience, there's still more riders in NZ that aren't on KB that there are on it so I thought I'd try and cast the net wider.

Check it out at http://www.facebook.com/AdventureRidingNZ and feel free to contribute.

Good job.:first:

[Oscar]

On a similiar note I've recently created a Facebook page to try and promote Adventure Riding in NZ to a wider audience, there's still more riders in NZ that aren't on KB that there are on it so I thought I'd try and cast the net wider.

Check it out at http://www.facebook.com/AdventureRidingNZ and feel free to contribute.


Dead Horse Flogging/ What about the NZ page on AdvRider?

[Eddieb]

Dead Horse Flogging/ What about the NZ page on AdvRider?

Same deal, There's even less NZ people on ADVrider than there are on KB.

[unstuck]

Same deal, There's even less NZ people on ADVrider than there are on KB.

Does seem a bit quiet over there.:yes:

[Taz]

Went there a few months back - there were tumble weeds.....

[Taz]

Good on ya SuzieQ. Maybe I can join you's fullas and fullesses on a ride some time. Not only for those new to Adv riding is it?

[Expert]

So did anyone go? I've just read this thread so that's my excuse.

[888]

When is the next meeting? I'm keen to ride on from Otorohanga and join in. The mighty TTR250 is up for it!

[Crisis management]

Guys, if you look at the original poster you will see she has a total of seven posts on KB, not exactly a regular here, if you are interested in finding out more I suggest you PM her directly.
If you want to go on adventure rides look at what's on in this forum, Expert, if you're free this saturday join us for a ride around the Kaipara area, 888 have a look at the MMMM ride in 3 or 4 weeks time.

[ducatijim]

Went there a few months back - there were tumble weeds.....

And so it should be......

Why, oh why, would( should) NZ adventure riders need/want to post on an international site when we have a dedicated, local noticeboard? No-one from the usa gives a monkeys about the next 'Nelson Rideouts' I would suspect?

So ya bloody mates have been banned here?, tell them I said grow up.:(

Its a bit like retailers; if you don't support local, maybe 1 day they will be gone........

[Night Falcon]

And so it should be......

Why, oh why, would( should) NZ adventure riders need/want to post on an international site when we have a dedicated, local noticeboard? No-one from the usa gives a monkeys about the next 'Nelson Rideouts' I would suspect?

So ya bloody mates have been banned here?, tell them I said grow up.:(

Its a bit like retailers; if you don't support local, maybe 1 day they will be gone........

I'm have nothing to say... on the grounds that I may incriminate myself :dodge:

[marks]

And so it should be......

Why, oh why, would( should) NZ adventure riders need/want to post on an international site when we have a dedicated, local noticeboard? No-one from the usa gives a monkeys about the next 'Nelson Rideouts' I would suspect?

So ya bloody mates have been banned here?, tell them I said grow up.:(

Its a bit like retailers; if you don't support local, maybe 1 day they will be gone........

in a mood for a little trolling are we?

[Oscar]

And so it should be......

Why, oh why, would( should) NZ adventure riders need/want to post on an international site when we have a dedicated, local noticeboard? No-one from the usa gives a monkeys about the next 'Nelson Rideouts' I would suspect?

So ya bloody mates have been banned here?, tell them I said grow up.:(

Its a bit like retailers; if you don't support local, maybe 1 day they will be gone........

Some of us have friends overseas we go riding with.
Some of us make friends...

[warewolf]

Some of us have friends overseas we go riding with.
Some of us make friends...Yeah, pretty much all the visiting adv'ers have hooked up through advrider, not kiddiebiker.

Sometimes it's nice not to have such a parochial viewpoint.

[suzieq]

Good on ya SuzieQ. Maybe I can join you's fullas and fullesses on a ride some time. Not only for those new to Adv riding is it?

hello there crikey i do take time to get to do things Join us 31st July some good stuff full day and exp riders attending come and seeeeee

we have quite a few more exp adv riders than myself and some of our lady riders that come along enduro riders along also but we are a mix of allllll abilities And it is also about being out there and in touch with it all thts mud and allll all that have come along to date have really enjoyed themselves we are doing allll the gravellllll belly roads we can find out sh16 and puhoi wayz and then out to Topuni so will be a full day out riding those gravel roads Meeting up again sun 31st 9:30 westgate shop centre to head off at 10am Also great to meet like minded people that enjoy this sort of riding Come along and give us a go......Next month Aug we are out to Waipu Gorge and exploring out those parts Sept we are off out Waitomo/Port Waikato/Raglan coastline and later will have access to south head forestry roads once deer and duck hunting season is finished Oct 16th meet up Thames pub and we will do coro wayz pm me for more details Fletcher Bay/Stoney Bay/ sun 309 road Coroglen-Tapu etc etc

Hope to catch you up sun any queries mail me Sue

[george formby]

If anyting happens to be planned for my neck of the woods please PM me!
Be nice to have help picking my bike up..:scooter: and we could go & see the Kauris.

[Bliksem]

If you want to go on adventure rides look at what's on in this forum, Expert, if you're free this saturday join us for a ride around the Kaipara area,

Can I play as well? Promise I will be good...

[Bass]

I think the date on his post means you are a bit late - well behaved or not.

(Was a good weekend too, I hear.)

[Eddieb]

The current issue of Motorcycle Trader Magazine contains a full page write up on the formation of the Auckland Gravel Riders Club.

[warewolf]

we have quite a few more exp adv riders than myself and some of our lady riders that come along enduro riders along also but we are a mix of allllll abilities And it is also about being out there and in touch with it all thts mud and allll all that have come along to date have really enjoyed themselves we are going allll the gravellllll belly roads we can find out sh16 and puhoi wayz and then out to Topuni so will be a full day out riding those gravel roads Meeting up again this sun 9:30 westgate shop centre to head off at 10am Also great to meet like minded people that enjoy this sort of riding Come along and give us a go......Next month Aug we are out to Waipu Gorge and exploring out those parts Sept we are off out Waitomo and later will have access to south head forestry roads once deer and duck hunting season is finishedIf I can get in before Hitcher :) the dots are supposed to be scattered all through the text, not all bunched up together.

[Shewolf]

I went on ride 2 and it was great - wet and muddy just as we like it. Some fast boys to try and catch and a slower pace for those that want it.

See you Sunday where I hope to not drop the DR :facepalm:

[Eddieb]

I went on ride 2 and it was great - wet and muddy just as we like it. Some fast boys to try and catch and a slower pace for those that want it.

See you Sunday where I hope to not drop the DR :facepalm:

ooooo, I didn't notice you had a DR now too.

[Shewolf]

yes but it's taken me a week to read the threads instead of working <_<

too quiet, I need to find this arrester thingy....I liked the sound of the boys coming from miles back on MMMMM :woohoo:


ooooo, I didn't notice you had a DR now too.

[Shewolf]

Great ride last weekend - wee ride report here (http://kiwiridermagazine.blogspot.com/2011/08/ax-does-adventure.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/6%20Aug%202011/DSCN1396.jpg

3 of us went for a return visit in the area today - interesting the things you spot on the side of the road....
http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/6%20Aug%202011/DSCN1411.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/6%20Aug%202011/DSCN1410.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/6%20Aug%202011/DSCN1412.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/6%20Aug%202011/DSCN1413.jpg

Locals look dodgy
http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/6%20Aug%202011/DSCN1408.jpg

Former Hobbit residence?
http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/6%20Aug%202011/DSCN1414.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/6%20Aug%202011/DSCN1402.jpg

Next ride 21st August - Waipu gravel bash.

[Shewolf]

21ST AUG Meet Up 9:30 Westgate Waipu & Waipu Forestry Tour
11TH SEP 9:30 BP Autobahn Bombay Port Waikato & Surrounds
24th SEP 9:30 BP Autobahn Bombay Gravel 101 Training
15/16OCT 10am Kopu Bridge Servo Coro Explore Weekend

[suzieq]

Can I play as well? Promise I will be good...

ha ha ha you good ok then ha ha c u at Desert Storm

[Oscar]

This might be a bit of you:

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=712992

Nov 12th. Big bike & pillion friendly.

Last time we a did a training day, too.

[Shewolf]

Next ride on 11 Sept to Port Waikato, leaving BP Bombay (NOT BP Papakura).

Meet 9.30 to leave promptly at 10.

Heading for Nikau Caves via Klondyke Rd for lunch and fuel for those require it let me know. They will stock it especially for you if asked. Gravel roads for the most part. Should be great day, will have JG as leader and a tail end charlie. See you there!

Limestone Downs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMfgyz7svB0

[Taz]

Are you going through Tuakau on the way?

[Shewolf]

yep, we're going via Mill Road I believe.

[Motu]

Is Nikau Cafe the final destination,or are you planning on going further?

[Shewolf]

After Nikau I think the plan is to head up through Limestone Downs and back through Klondyke again.

[Steelie]

Theres plenty more gravel without going back the same way.
Like to tag along if I may.

[Taz]

Yes plenty more. :yes:

[Motu]

No,I think the gravel stops at the Nikau Caves - then it turns to seal and heads back to SH22. I'll stand at the SH22 intersection to make sure none of them get lost.

[nic]

I am hoping to make this one.

I'll aim to get up north on Friday night.

[Taz]

No,I think the gravel stops at the Nikau Caves - then it turns to seal and heads back to SH22. I'll stand at the SH22 intersection to make sure none of them get lost.

OK rephrase. Plenty of route options without backtracking along the Limestone Downs and klondike roads. All very awesome too.

[Crisis management]

I seem to have a few hours to spare tomorrow so will see if I can get there...... typically the weather is doing it's best to ruin my reputation but it will keep the dust down!






Just so I do get a dry ride in I'm heading north to annoy the occupants of Puhoi and Helensville for the afternoon.

[Bliksem]

Keeping an eye on the weather as well, hard to say at the moment...:sunny:

[Shewolf]

be good to see you there Iain, get some orange action chucking it round some corners


I seem to have a few hours to spare tomorrow so will see if I can get there......

[Waihou Thumper]

so where is the best place to rendezvous for Waikato riders? Do you have a good loop rather than re-tracing?....seems Andy suggested? Are you coming mate? I am keen to tag along if this is okay...:)

[Shewolf]

Hi - I think the loop is down to Klondyke and back towards Onewhero then metal roads between there down to Nikau then return via Limestone Downs - back through Klondyke if anyone wants to.

Not 100% sure, if you PM your cell I can have the RIC let you know meet up point.

[cave weta]

If I can get in before Hitcher :) the dots are supposed to be scattered all through the text, not all bunched up together.

Well Ive just met SuzieQ in person. That lady is a bundle of energy. She got no time for fullstops.
and the Nikau Caves Ride? Wet -but worth it!

[Shewolf]

Well that was a wet one...but great to see 19 or so bikes turn out anyway. Thanks all!

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1542.jpg

Yummy DR sound

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6j_xmS6gvg

[.chris]

Well that was a wet one...but great to see 19 or so bikes turn out anyway. Thanks all!

Nice work going out yesterday, you all must be lots more dedicated than me.
I heard that Iian was coming and woke up to the sound of rain, so I stayed in bed.

[Shewolf]

Not a KTM in sight - do they melt??? :innocent:

Lovely crop of DR's ....:shutup: even AX's big bro a Dommie in go-fast red :woohoo:

[suzieq]

Well Ive just met SuzieQ in person. That lady is a bundle of energy. She got no time for fullstops.
and the Nikau Caves Ride? Wet -but worth it!

"Nice to have you along for the ride at the weekend" Sorry will try to insert some fullstops somewhere along the way (promise) - Hows this then?. My first full stop. Oh crikey this is becoming quite addictive. OMG. Will be good to catch you up over the upcoming Coro Explore weekend. COLOR="paleturquoise"]Good luck for your FREE dirt biking day this weekend. Should be a good one. :rockon:

[Shewolf]

:scooter:Thursday 15th Sept - Closer to the Edge TT Movie Albany Cinema
Format:Albany 6pm foodcourt, for...food. 6.50pm movie session. (Discount for club members 10 or more)



:scooter:Saturday 24th Sept - Gravel riding mentoring
Hosted by yours truly (and some proper riders).

This morning session is designed for those very new to gravel and wanting to upskill in areas like: standing and gear changing, off-camber corners, picking up bikes, turning in weird spots plus anything else we can think of.

Format:
Meet Bombay BP 9.30am and head to Tuakau for some stationary drills and then some easy exercises on a quiet stretch of gravel.

Afternoon: if any are interested we head for some nice gravel in the area.



:scooter:October 15/16th - Overnight Coromandel Explore
Gravel Scratchers and Roadie Route offered so any with road bikes will do a scenic route and meet up Whitianga Saturday night.

Format:
Meet Kopu Mobil service station Saturday am, ride til you drop (hopefully at Whitianga Mercury Bay), dinner at Cossie Club.



:scooter:5-6th November - Rangitaiki Berm ‘n’ Trail Ride

Social trail weekend at Rangitaiki for those wanting to upskill and chuck your bike round some forest. Not quite ready for Trailblazer? We're having an easy 'Trailwarmer' for any riders wanting to build skills off-road.

Bikes should have knobbly tyres. For those with NON ROAD REGISTERED trail bikes, trailers can be parked at The Sandpit located down Napier/Taupo highway.

Format:
Friday Night: Overnight Taupo Top 10 ph (07) 378 6860, Rangitaiki Lodge ph (07) 384 2800 or Rangitaiki Tavern ph (07) 384 2803. Meet up for dinner and lie-telling

Saturday am: Meet 9:30am at the Pumice Pit (map to come) for hour and 1/2 skill base training for newer people. (We will require experienced bods to assist as mentors please).

Novice riders will be paired up with an experienced rider who will offer skills and tips on various aspects of off-roading. We will use the Pumice Pit as a training ground

11am – Ride the berms up the Napier Taupo Highway thru to Rangitaiki Pub

Lunch: Rangitaiki pub approx 1pm

Saturday pm:
Experienced riders will have guided forestry loops with Jim D and a TEC - as there are many wash outs thru there we will ride as a group and look out for each other.
Novice riders will remain at Rangitaiki pub area and do shorter loops around and about the pub (are you sure Sue? We may be found telling lies at the bar!)

Saturday Night: Dinner back at Taupo end somewhere *updated
Meet up for dinner (by this time we'll be lied-out and may have to make up some new ones)

* All riding levels are catered for - please stick with the group as we don't want bods heading off for their own reccie ride, the washouts should not be underestimated!

[Night Falcon]

:scooter:Thursday 15th Sept - Closer to the Edge TT Movie Albany Cinema
Format:Albany 6pm foodcourt, for...food. 6.50pm movie session. (Discount for club members 10 or more)



:scooter:Saturday 24th Sept - Gravel riding mentoring
Hosted by yours truly (and some proper riders).

This morning session is designed for those very new to gravel and wanting to upskill in areas like: standing and gear changing, off-camber corners, picking up bikes, turning in weird spots plus anything else we can think of.

Format:
Meet Bombay BP 9.30am and head to Tuakau for some stationary drills and then some easy exercises on a quiet stretch of gravel.

Afternoon: if any are interested we head for some nice gravel in the area.



:scooter:October 15/16th - Overnight Coromandel Explore
Gravel Scratchers and Roadie Route offered so any with road bikes will do a scenic route and meet up Whitianga Saturday night.

Format:
Meet Kopu Mobil service station Saturday am, ride til you drop (hopefully at Whitianga Mercury Bay), dinner at Cossie Club.



:scooter:5-6th November - Rangitaiki Berm ‘n’ Trail Ride

Social trail weekend at Rangitaiki for those wanting to upskill and chuck your bike round some forest. Not quite ready for Trailblazer? We're having an easy 'Trailwarmer' for any riders wanting to build skills off-road.

Bikes should have knobbly tyres. For those with NON ROAD REGISTERED trail bikes, trailers can be parked at The Sandpit located down Napier/Taupo highway.

Format:
Friday Night: Overnight Taupo Top 10 ph (07) 378 6860, Rangitaiki Lodge ph (07) 384 2800 or Rangitaiki Tavern ph (07) 384 2803. Meet up for dinner and lie-telling

Saturday am: Meet 9:30am at the Pumice Pit (map to come) for hour and 1/2 skill base training for newer people. (We will require experienced bods to assist as mentors please).

Novice riders will be paired up with an experienced rider who will offer skills and tips on various aspects of off-roading. We will use the Pumice Pit as a training ground

11am – Ride the berms up the Napier Taupo Highway thru to Rangitaiki Pub

Lunch: Rangitaiki pub approx 1pm

Saturday pm:
Experienced riders will have guided forestry loops with Jim D and a TEC - as there are many wash outs thru there we will ride as a group and look out for each other.
Novice riders will remain at Rangitaiki pub area and do shorter loops around and about the pub (are you sure Sue? We may be found telling lies at the bar!)

Saturday Night: Dinner at Rangitaiki pub
Meet up for dinner (by this time we'll be lied-out and may have to make up some new ones)

* All riding levels are catered for - please stick with the group as we don't want bods heading off for their own reccie ride, the washouts should not be underestimated!

November Ranitaiki excursion is in my back yard....should be perfect for the 690....do you know if its 950 freindly?

[Crisis management]

I heard that Iian was coming and woke up to the sound of rain, so I stayed in bed.

Me too, I awoke to the thunderous applause of the heavens and thought "I can spend the day wet or go and watch TT3D".

The movie was great. :woohoo:



Another time...... my requests: 6 hours of gravel and three stops to talk and tell lies.

Edit:
November 5th is the Kaipara 200 run by Vege and his mates at Kiwi Rider, an occassion not to be missed. I suggest you reschedule the Rangiteiki ride and do this instead!

[suzieq]

Me too, I awoke to the thunderous applause of the heavens and thought "I can spend the day wet or go and watch TT3D".

The movie was great. :woohoo:



Another time...... my requests: 6 hours of gravel and three stops to talk and tell lies.

Edit:
November 5th is the Kaipara 200 run by Vege and his mates at Kiwi Rider, an occassion not to be missed. I suggest you reschedule the Rangiteiki ride and do this instead!

It was the 5th KIWI RIDER HAVE RESCHEDULED THEIR KAIPARA 200 TO THE FOLLOWING WEEKEND

[Crisis management]

It was the 5th KIWI RIDER HAVE RESCHEDULED THEIR KAIPARA 200 TO THE FOLLOWING WEEKEND

Thank you that came through very clearly.... KR haven't changed the date on the web yet, I will keep an eye on it tho.

[suzieq]

Well Ive just met SuzieQ in person. That lady is a bundle of energy. She got no time for fullstops.
and the Nikau Caves Ride? Wet -but worth it!

246697

Suzieq busy schooling up two of our boys. They engrossed in it alll. Phew could see the smoke circling the caps of. Nice to catch you up El and ???. Sorry, toooo busy organising the boys. Ha ha looks like I guessed the secret name of ?????? Yes, you know who you are and now so do I. Good to catch up with you second ride now.

[Waihou Thumper]

Thank you that came through very clearly.... KR haven't changed the date on the web yet, I will keep an eye on it tho.

Yep, thought so too, but it is the following weekend, saw it somewhere....the 5th is my birfday, so I thought it would be a good way to celebrate :) Alas, I will have to see if there is something else? Oh, wait, there is...:)

[Eddieb]

Thank you that came through very clearly.... KR haven't changed the date on the web yet, I will keep an eye on it tho.

They updated the date on their facebook page a few weeks ago.

https://www.facebook.com/KiwiRiderMagazine

[Shewolf]

Rangitaiki will be a goodun, depending how many times I fall off determine whether I go fall off also at Kaipara :shit:

[Shewolf]

sure - big, small, bring em all


November Ranitaiki excursion is in my back yard....should be perfect for the 690....do you know if its 950 freindly?

[offrd]

November Ranitaiki excursion is in my back yard....should be perfect for the 690....do you know if its 950 freindly?

Anything is 950 friendly! :woohoo: Good ridin out there!

[suzieq]

Yep, thought so too, but it is the following weekend, saw it somewhere....the 5th is my birfday, so I thought it would be a good way to celebrate :) Alas, I will have to see if there is something else? Oh, wait, there is...:)

I Know of two KTM's that will be in attendance. Bring on team orange.

[Shewolf]

Team Orange :innocent:


I Know of two KTM's that will be in attendance. Bring on team orange.

246715

[clint640]

:5-6th November - Rangitaiki Berm ‘n’ Trail Ride

Social trail weekend at Rangitaiki for those wanting to upskill and chuck your bike round some forest. Not quite ready for Trailblazer? We're having an easy 'Trailwarmer' for any riders wanting to build skills off-road.
!

We will be camping at Minginui on the above weekend so if anyone wants to ride over on the MMMMM route & join us on the Saturday night they are welcome. You'll need some dirt skillz to make it around the washout & a GPS to find the way. PM me for details.

Cheers
Clint

[suzieq]

Thank you that came through very clearly.... KR haven't changed the date on the web yet, I will keep an eye on it tho.


Hi, I know Linda at K Rider office really well. I will get her to alter the K Rider website. All sorted.

[socialites]

246697

Suzieq busy schooling up two of our boys. They engrossed in it alll. Phew could see the smoke circling the caps of. Nice to catch you up El and Mark.

Not good with names Suzieq?...who is Mark???....hahahahaha

[suzieq]

We will be camping at Minginui this weekend so if anyone wants to ride over on the MMMMM route & join us on the Saturday night they are welcome. You'll need some dirt skillz to make it around the washout & a GPS to find the way. PM me for details.

Cheers
Clint

Hi Clint, would have been awsome but the dates for some of us up here no good, Adventure Ride course this weekend at Wgainaro, and then BlackFern Advent Ride run by Mt Maunganui Shop on also; but plse keep us posted on your next Social ride - would love to do more of this, and a few more of us also would be there. Is always awsome to be able to mix it up with you exp people. Thanks.

[suzieq]

Team Orange :innocent:



246715

I can see someone is having loads fun with this one - Running in the twinnies, and yes the orange theme - one intelligent wee lass we have here I can see. Who let that SHEWOLF out of her lair????

[suzieq]

Not good with names Suzieq?...who is Mark???....hahahahaha

Perhaps you reminded me of someone I was chatting to just prior to schooling up you two boys on the outside decks? At least I got our Al right - You really just don't forget that man. We go back a couple of rides now Al and I. Loads of laughs and a very memorable character. Team KTM Oh Dear? Gosh I guess I just 'Don't Know' do I - apologies given for this slight errrrr on my part.

[clint640]

Hi Clint, would have been awsome but the dates for some of us up here no good, Adventure Ride course this weekend at Wgainaro, and then BlackFern Advent Ride run by Mt Maunganui Shop on also; but plse keep us posted on your next Social ride - would love to do more of this, and a few more of us also would be there. Is always awsome to be able to mix it up with you exp people. Thanks.

Sorry, What I meant was we will be camping at Minginui on the weekend of your Rangitaiki ride, 5-6 Nov. So if anyone wants to ride over & join us after the trail riding session (via the Waipunga & Kaingaroa on the MMMMM cool team route) I can send the GPS track.

Cheers
Clint

[Shewolf]

oooo Kaiangaroa, yes please for GPS track, PM you my email addy. I'm sure it won't take too much arm twisting to go for a look see....


Sorry, What I meant was we will be camping at Minginui on the weekend of your Rangitaiki ride, 5-6 Nov. So if anyone wants to ride over & join us after the trail riding session (via the Waipunga & Kaingaroa on the MMMMM cool team route) I can send the GPS track.

Cheers
Clint

[offrd]

Its a good ride that forest section to minganui!! :scooter:

[suzieq]

Its a good ride that forest section to minganui!! :scooter:

Yes, it so looks like we will be heading out there for a visit in the avo

[Shewolf]

I asked these guys for a discount and a place to park the trail bikes. They got roomy front lawn, nice big walk in shower rooms to clean the gear. :innocent:

http://www1.hilton.com/ts/en_US/hotels/content/AKLLTHI/media/images/photo_gallery/AKLLTHI_Hilton_Lake_Taupo_gallery_welcome.jpg



They haven't got back to me :weep:

[Night Falcon]

Anything is 950 friendly! :woohoo: Good ridin out there! the bikes can handle anything...the pilot's getting a bit long in the tooth though :shutup:


I Know of two KTM's that will be in attendance. Bring on team orange.

+2 makes 4 unless 1 was in your 2 thats 3 but whose counting :blink: team orange will be rockin rollin :woohoo:

[suzieq]

the bikes can handle anything...the pilot's getting a bit long in the tooth though :shutup:



+2 makes 4 unless 1 was in your 2 thats 3 but whose counting :blink: team orange will be rockin rollin :woohoo:

This is very early mng arithmetic One OJ from out West, no maybe two, a third if repairs done in time, plus you, so thumbs up - Maybe 4 team OJ

[Taz]

My KTM isn't orange.....

[fridayflash]

hi all, been speaking to xrjohnny about this weeknd at rangitaiki
were keen to head up from napier...its part of our trailriding backyard:scooter:
and a great place to get in a variety of trails
at the moment were thinking trailering up xr200's for trail laughs
and putting around with whomever might need some guidance
and also bringing (on the back of the ute towing the trailer)
xr650r's for a bit of a blast over to minginui etc

sounds like a great idea allround suzieq!!!

[Shewolf]

Stag Park Diner are offering a Dinner, Bed and Breakfast deal per person for $80.00 per night. (07) 378 6403 151 Napier Taupo Highway State Highway 5, Taupo. Open 24 hours.

This might be a good dinner option for those staying Taupo-side fri or sat nights.

[NordieBoy]

My KTM isn't orange.....
Grey import?





:facepalm::shutup:

[suzieq]

hi all, been speaking to xrjohnny about this weeknd at rangitaiki
were keen to head up from napier...its part of our trailriding backyard:scooter:
and a great place to get in a variety of trails
at the moment were thinking trailering up xr200's for trail laughs
and putting around with whomever might need some guidance
and also bringing (on the back of the ute towing the trailer)
xr650r's for a bit of a blast over to minginui etc

sounds like a great idea allround suzieq!!!

Thanks - you are so on to it; We play at Rangitaiki often, as we spend a lot of time down Taupo with Bermbusters,Desert Storms etc etc Trail laughs it most definately will be. But hey its all part of the fun isn't it? Those 200's will be well received. I found an awsome pumice pit; this will be where we meet up in the mng not far from Taupo side of Nap/Taupo highway. Details of meet-up point posted shortly. I will also have trailer park-up at Pumice Pit as I need to bring up the KTM for the start-up. The grass berm run up to Rangitaki pub will be our next stop, and this will be a good warm up for all. Promises a good variety of riding skills here. After our guided loops high up into those big hills in the avo: Jim is planning on taking the gang out to revisit Clint's Cold MMMMM loop aka over the stream crossing due to the wash out. Clint and Rosie camping out those wayz and some may wish to go join them to say hi. Can pm Clint for details. Jim is riding his 450EXC for this one (yes, the Orange machine) so will take any as far as the road. So options to continue on and visit Clint and Rosie, or to return back again. This will be a goodie, and we should look to use this playground as much as we all can; before they look to put in the dreaded fencing aka no good.

[fridayflash]

i inspected that huge washout on pohokura road the morning of mmmmm day1
what a monster!! im keen to get back for a better look before its repaired
it looked like it could house a two-storey block of flats!!
looks like MAJOR run-off down the waipunga valley has caused it

[Hmmm]

24th SEP[/B] 9:30 BP Autobahn Bombay Gravel 101 Training
[B]

Do you have a little more detail about this please.

[Shewolf]

Hi - this is a skills-based morning for those new to riding on gravel. We'll be going to an area just out of Tuakau initially to do some theory and stationary drills, this will include rider position, standing while riding, weighting the bike, braking techniques with examples and other things that are useful.

We'll then head to Murray Road to do some practice drills with experienced riders leading small groups. There's nothing too tricky in the exercises, and it certainly won't cover everything there is to adventure riding, but it's a starting point we'll be building on each month.

We will be practicing these techniques till about midday when we'll head to Port Waikato for lunch for those interested.

In the afternoon we'll head down Limestone Downs to some easy gravel to put into practice some of the techniques you've done in the morning.

This is designed for big or small adventure bikes, but I reiterate - it's for new-to-gravel riders.

Do you have a little more detail about this please.

[Baldyman]

It was great to meet all you good people this morning. I had fun and picked up a few tips.

I look forward to riding with you all again in the near future.

Thank you for taking the time to share some wisdom.

[suzieq]

It was great to meet all you good people this morning. I had fun and picked up a few tips.

I look forward to riding with you all again in the near future.

Thank you for taking the time to share some wisdom.

Tuakau and Port Waikato surely dished us up some mud today. 15 bikes turned out this mng to take in a heap of wisdom which was offered up from our very own 'Wolfie'. Thanks for the most awsome commentary today. Top team effort to all that turned out. Concept '101' surely running hottttt.

[Shewolf]

We were blessed with a lovely day and 15 bikes meeting us at the BP Bombay station. We headed to Les Batkin reserve which had a good area for us to do some demos of braking and turns, have a chat about body position on the bike and then head down a short section of gravel under Tuakau bridge to put this into practice.

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1581.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1588.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1595.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1596.jpg

Everyone did really well with trying out standing while riding, keep up the practice!

We had a bit of a play in a 4WD area - good on you guys for getting amongst it.

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1604.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1610.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1617.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1624.jpg

We did a few demos of turning a bike on the sidestand and picking up a bike.

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1632.jpg

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz334/UlyssesNZ/DSCN1637.jpg

A good mornings effort, thanks to Jim and Rex for their able assistance! Some headed off after the morning and a few of us did a gentle run down Limestone Downs to Nikau Caves cafe for lunch followed by a quicker run back and still keen we ended the day by a blast over Klondyke Road. More photos over on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.204871062911880.54290.157663480965972#!/media/set/?set=a.204871062911880.54290.157663480965972&type=1).

Hope to see you all at another ride soon

[Andy Williams]

When is the next ride??

[Shewolf]

Overnight Coro Explore - Jim D is ride leader

PLAN: Meet 9:30am Kopu - 10am depart
(go over Kopu Bridge,turn left,at t junction... straight ahead is Mobil Service Station) - Please arrive in plenty of time with full tank and empty bladder.

Gravel Route
Depart up Coleville Coastline, will do Tapu-Coroglen, 309 Road along with Castle Rock Rd and stream crossing, lunch at Coro town then Fletcher Bay/Stoney Bay - back down and into Whitianga for overnight stay Mercury Bay. Accom could be Mercurt Bay Motorcamp 10% discount on offer by mention of Gravel Riders Crew or Harbourside Holiday Park or Whitianga Hotel.

Road Route
Depart with Gravel Crew 10am, but a leisurely scenic and sealed route meeting Coro Township for lunch. Some wish to do Driving Creek Railway in the afternoon, you will need to let us know if you wish to ride the traintrip 2pm in the afternoon; by booking only otherwise no seat place. PM me, or leave a note on our Facebook page if you want to book for this.

Some wish to visit Waiau Waterworks this will be a 2.7km very easy gravel road out to there.

Saturday night and Sunday we have a few treats in store - see our Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.137745332937253.24434.100001053625657&type=1#!/pages/Akd-Gravel-Adventure-Riders-Club/157663480965972?sk=info) page (click INFO) for more details.

[DR Girl]

Well done re your training & your enthusiasm.:woohoo:
What a great group you have! Thanks Sue for the updates & emails.
XRJohnny,fridayflash, another mate & myself did the last Suzuki Trail Blazer on the other side of Taupo a couple weekends back which was great. A few sore shoulder, forearm & thigh muscles the next day :violin: but all good. Not sure if I can join you weekend of Rangitaiki Riding. Let you know closer to the time.

[suzieq]

Well done re your training & your enthusiasm.:woohoo:
What a great group you have! Thanks Sue for the updates & emails.
XRJohnny,fridayflash, another mate & myself did the last Suzuki Trail Blazer on the other side of Taupo a couple weekends back which was great. A few sore shoulder, forearm & thigh muscles the next day :violin: but all good. Not sure if I can join you weekend of Rangitaiki Riding. Let you know closer to the time.

Hey, good to chat again, will of course keep you psted, along with SheWolfnz, she has been updating the K Biker for us - is going back a whiles now since the MMMMM weekend. Let us know if you can make the Coro Explore Weekend 15th/16th October, failing that catch you up maybe Rangitaiki.

[Crisis management]

[COLOR="magenta"]Overnight Coro Explore - Jim D is ride leader

PLAN: Meet 9:30am Kopu - 10am depart
(go over Kopu Bridge,turn left,at t junction... straight ahead is Mobil Service Station) - Please arrive in plenty of time with full tank and empty bladder.


Am I allowed to just do the day??? :sunny:

Assuming I am, if anyone is interested in meeting howickish at 8.00am I will be following the Thames coast down.... Twilight road, Clevedon, Kawakawa, Orere Point, Miranda.
Depending on light and time, probably come back up the same way after the rest head for Whitianga, if there's time a quick flick back over 309 & Coroglen / Tapu road.

[Shewolf]

sure thing, I like that run - am meeting up with some other howick bods too...where ta meet up?


if anyone is interested in meeting howickish at 8.00am I will be following the Thames coast down.... Twilight road, Clevedon, Kawakawa, Orere Point, Miranda.

[Crisis management]

sure thing, I like that run - am meeting up with some other howick bods too...where ta meet up?

If you are organising with others, let me know what you decide and I will be there, alternatively, outside the pub in Howick main street is an easy location to find.

[suzieq]

If you are organising with others, let me know what you decide and I will be there, alternatively, outside the pub in Howick main street is an easy location to find.


http://bmwor.org.nz/forum/index.php/topic,2425.0.html
SAT MNG PLAN: Tapu-Coroglen, then 309 Road, play at CastleRock Road, coool the bikes off with shortish stream crossings. Then head back round to Coro Township for lunch. Short lunch planned for both crews only at bakery. Gravel crew head up to the top and will do BOTH top end bays Fletcher / Stoney etc will come back down via more gravel along the coastline route and into Whitianga.

For those only wishing to do a Sat or even a Sunday excursion all good. Also if you just wish to do half day gravel and join us up on the train ride 2pm on sat, make the time and come join us. You will not need to take in any scenic shots along the Coastline as the train takes you high up into those hills, and atop the balcony you will get alllll of the scenic Coleville
Coastline shots that you could ever wish for. It will all be on tap. Please contact me if you wish to join us on the train ride. Can pm me. I only have 14 seats booked and so far am close to reaching 11 in number now as at 03rd October.

ROADIES WELCOME: We head off up coastline and via 309 road you will need to do 2.7kms easy gravel road and we visit Waiau Waterworx. Back out the same direction and into
Coro Township to meet up with our roadies for lunch Coro Township. Short lunch break and then onto Driving Creek Railway at 2pm. Attending the train ride, please bring $20.00 note with you as we will get discount when we pay as one lump sum. No eftpost transactions for this please.

NOTE: Many roadies wished to come along for this weekend, and on the something for everyone theme, all more than welcome to participate in what we have planned. Will be nice to catch up with those we do not get to meet up with nearly often enough.

Hereby, UPDATED DETAILS, take a peek. There will be small minor changes as we get closer to our event. BOTH Gravel Crews and Road Crews will meet Coro Township for lunch before we split up again and head off for the afternoon. We meet up again at our accomm Merc Bay Whitianga.

Some accomm options could be: Merc Bay Motorcamp receive 10% discount on mention of Gravel Riders crew - Harbourside Holiday Park and also could be Whitianga Hotel - arrange with your friends and share accomm costs. Any looking to share post on this site. I am sure people would be more than happy to share accomm. Evening dinner is planned at Merc Bay Club 7pm. Light entertainment is also on tap here.

SUNDAY: WE exit Merc Bay first thing approx 8am and head out to Tairua. Tairua planned breakfast stop, plenty parking shop side thru main town at this time of the mng. We exit Tairua no later than 9:30am and head over to Waihi for our mystery/bike/cave tour. WE converge on Waihi approx time 11am to go visit our friend Stu from OVER THE TOP ADVENTURES. From here your choice to go do the mystery one hour bike ride thru dark cave and into abandonned goldmine. Nobbs please for this one. Both big and small bikes will get thru. Assistance will be provided, so you owe it yourself to give this one a go. Please bring your cams. Moments like these do not come along that often. Thanks so much Stu for this offer up for us. Lets see what mayhem we can bring to Waihi.

This weekend has been planned around the SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE theme, come one, come all, all skill levels and most certainly all makes and models of bikes welcome, as is This Club's policy. We look to cater for each and for all.


http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=237318756318779#!/event.php?eid=141761322575710

Details above as listed under events on facebook


Over and out for now Suezieq

[Shewolf]

looking forward to the caves, the creepy crawlies, the camera recording more horizontal moments! perhaps someone elses this time :shutup:

[socialites]

If you are organising with others, let me know what you decide and I will be there, alternatively, outside the pub in Howick main street is an easy location to find.

I might catch you at the pub at 8 in howick, depending on which way Al is planning to go down.

[Shewolf]

pub main st Howick - is this the Barrel Inn or the Prospect?

[Crisis management]

I might catch you at the pub at 8 in howick, depending on which way Al is planning to go down.

I'll chase Al along then, he's just down the road from me.


pub main st Howick - is this the Barrel Inn or the Prospect?

I only know of the Prospect but whatever works best for you..... Chowick main street isn't exactly long so we can hardly get lost that early in the day!

[Bass]

Keep me posted and I'll join you somewhere around Clevedon

[Shewolf]

the Prospect it is - wet fine or indifferent - 8am:scooter:

[Crisis management]

Keep me posted and I'll join you somewhere around Clevedon

Be good to see you again Neil, sometime between 8.15 and 8.30 at the Clevedon Kawakawa road, coincidently just outside the Clevedon pub (why do all my meeting places end up being pubs?).


the Prospect it is - wet fine or indifferent - 8am:scooter:

That's 8.00am ready to depart I assume, not 8.00am we are almost there but need a toilet and gas stop?


I'll shut up now. :shutup:

[Shewolf]

Anyone North-side we'll be leaving Westgate Shell 7.30am for Howick. So arrive 7ish if you want a gobble at McD's prior.

Faffing at Westage and Howick entirely possible - means we get to go faster on those nice curvey bits towards Thames :devil2:

[Waihou Thumper]

That's 8.00am ready to depart I assume, not 8.00am we are almost there but need a toilet and gas stop?


I'll shut up now. :shutup:

haha, we there at 0800, then we have to dismount say hello, take some photos and have a coffee...better make that 0730...leave at 0800 :)

[socialites]

[QUOTE=Crisis management;1130168362]I'll chase Al along then, he's just down the road from me.



Nah, I spoke to Al, as as you know, when he has made his mind up to go one way,(and in this case its Papakura then onto SH2) it does not change, so I guess I will see you at the Mobil station at 9.30 in Kopu.

[Shewolf]

I've paid for tent site there but staying elsewhere now if anyone wants a freebie I'll PM you details.

SOLD - to the lowest bidder

[Bass]

(why do all my meeting places end up being pubs?).


No idea but i like your style.
Must drag you out for a "Round the Hunuas - do all the dams" trip. Not a huge amount of gravel but an entertaining ride and some truly magic views. Even the odd airstrip or two in the most unlikely places.
Would be bloody marvellous if we had a key to some of the gates.

[Motu]

The gates never used to be locked,and now because of some arseholes we can't ride to the top of the dams anymore.

247994247995

[Bass]

I have a couple of photos like that too Paul, but it wasn't those gates I was referring to - it was the next set that let you out into the Hunuas proper. They are walking and mountain bike tracks now but many are still vehicle tracks if you only had a key. There are several gates into the Hunuas too, from what are otherwise blind roads all around the range.
However I suspect that I'm not telling you anything that you don't already know.

[Crisis management]

Must drag you out for a "Round the Hunuas - do all the dams" trip. Not a huge amount of gravel but an entertaining ride and some truly magic views. Even the odd airstrip or two in the most unlikely places.
Would be bloody marvellous if we had a key to some of the gates.

Sounds like a good idea, I'm always frustrated scooting past there on the coast road when I can see there has to be lots of far more interesting roads to play on. Let me know when you want to go for a wander.

Good photos Paul!

[Motu]

They are walking and mountain bike tracks now but many are still vehicle tracks if you only had a key.

The day I took this photo there was a Landrover out of shot to the left,there was a couple of guys with guns who said they were going pig hunting. I know about the tracks,I used to ride them in the '70's....but guys with guns makes me nervous.

248016

[Team Buffoon]

Anyone heading down for the weekend from Devonport or Takapuna and want to do some formation flying to Howick?

[Shewolf]

theres a few of us meeting at Westgate to head over at 7-7.30 so we can pick ya up on the way thru if there's a pullover area - Market Road-ish area is roomy. We'll be the one's looking like we're going on an RTW. :innocent:

[.chris]

I have been trying to make it to one of your events since you started, but you seem to have a un-canny ability to have all your rides/events when I am busy.

But it appears my sunday has opened up so I was wondering if it would be ok if I met up with the ride in Waihi on sunday AM?

[Shewolf]

sure thing we are going to be at Stu's at 10.30 Sundayoverthetopadventures.co.nz (http://www.overthetopadventures.co.nz/)

[Team Buffoon]

Shewolf do you mean Market Road as in off ramp for Remuera and Greenlane? What time do you reckon you will be there? If I miss you I will catch up with you all at Howick.

Accommodation: I am planning on Staying at the Whitianga Hotel rather than camping. They appear to have multi bed rooms available on their website. Anyone interested in sharing or do you have a room already booked with spare beds. Promise I dont smell and only snore quietly, you can throw boots at me if I lie!

[Shewolf]

Market Rd yeah - there's a bit of room on the shoulder there, we'll be coming through at 7.30am I reckon, shouldn't be too much traffic to zip in with us - otherwise yep, see you at Howick

[offrd]

No idea but i like your style.
Must drag you out for a "Round the Hunuas - do all the dams" trip. Not a huge amount of gravel but an entertaining ride and some truly magic views. Even the odd airstrip or two in the most unlikely places.
Would be bloody marvellous if we had a key to some of the gates.

That sounds like a good ride!

[pete-blen]

That sounds like a good ride!

Gate keys at mite 10..:innocent::facepalm:

[offrd]

Gate keys at mite 10..:innocent::facepalm:

Blue tongue dragon works better, Oxy acetylene!

Opened a few gates that way in the past, and weleded them closed after i passed!
Good service truck!

[suzieq]

Market Rd yeah - there's a bit of room on the shoulder there, we'll be coming through at 7.30am I reckon, shouldn't be too much traffic to zip in with us - otherwise yep, see you at Howick

Looks like there will be a big group of us riding from out West now Should be a grreat weekend

[Crisis management]

Looks like there will be a big group of us riding from out West now Should be a grreat weekend

Great!
Just a gentle reminder, we need 1 1/2 hours from Howick to Kopu so leaving Howick at 8.00am would be really good.... hint, hint.

[.chris]

I plan to meet you guys in Waihi at about 10:30am on sunday.

Looking forward to it.

[cave weta]

I plan to meet you guys in Waihi at about 10:30am on sunday.

Looking forward to it.

Do you know where?
Over The Top Adventures on the main road in from Whangamata.
sign outside on Right Hand Side before the 50km signs.

[.chris]

Do you know where?
Over The Top Adventures on the main road in from Whangamata.
sign outside on Right Hand Side before the 50km signs.

Yeah I kinda knew (my google-foo is strong). And figured a few dozen adv bikes rolling into town will be easy enough to spot. :corn:

[Cary]

Prospect
Will meet you there at 8, only going part way.

[Shewolf]

Yep well be at Howick by 8am picking up strays along the way - well...buffoons anyway :banana:

[Steelie]

Im a late commit to a Saturday ride only.:scooter: Might get to Clevedon, if not it will be Maranda or Kopu.

[Team Buffoon]

Only my mates call me Buffoon and I have not even met you yet! See you at Howick no knowing who you will pick up lounging next to the motorway! Nee Naa Good morning Sir do you know this is a no stopping zone, may I see your licence...etc etc

[Crisis management]

Well, that was fun, lots of people, well organised and an interesting route, how can you complain about that? Good to catch up with a lot of KBers all trying very hard to behave themselves and not leave a bad impression (mostly succeeding).

Special award goes to Fritz? for finding the only 1.5 metre deep hole in the entire Coromandel Ranges to stuff his AT into, with incredible precision he managed to get it so all that was visible was the rear wheel. It was great to see the help he received in extracting it and then straightening and making it work again (forks were a wee bit sad looking...)

Special mentions go to Gary (GLG) for the worlds weirdest tool kit, Al (Don't know) for expertise in zip ties and actually having a towing strap we could use, Eddie (EddieB) for having a usefull tool kit, Paul for not losing too many parts, Rhonda (shewolf) for putting up with our jokes and hopefully getting some pics and Garth for removing a large part of a fence single handedly.

I departed with the injured AT towards Auckland at this point so have no idea how the rest of the day went but I'm sure it was great... it's really weird riding behind a bike that has the front wheel pointing in a very different direction to the rear, great determination by Fritz riding it back!

So, highly recomended entertainment!

[Waihou Thumper]

Bloody hell, that must have been some huge hole! I caught up to the bike on my way home, he turned off at Kopu and headed to AKL....It looked like it was travelling okay.
Here is a little snippet of the beginning of the day....Eddie had a few teething issues with the DR650. It was fixed in a few minutes and what a spectacular day....
This was near Kaihere, just short of Ngatea, we headed on a bit of a scenic route to the rendezvous....



http://vimeo.com/30606893

[Waihou Thumper]

Still, furthermore, a little of what we did....


http://vimeo.com/30610884

[Waihou Thumper]

A car and a motorbike have collided in the Waikato.

The accident happened at about three o'clock this afternoon on State Highway 27 at the Paeroa-Tahuna Road intersection.

The motorcyclist has been taken to hospital with serious injuries.


Oh shit......Too close to home to think that someone might be hurt from the ride this weekend? Any news anyone? :shit:

[Waihou Thumper]

From Castle Rock, near Coromandel....


http://vimeo.com/30612719

[.chris]

First the ride was all..
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-qkzXLbaOZLs/TppbJeZp-nI/AAAAAAAAKg0/GKLiWZa_dtA/s640/IMG_5744.jpg

Then......
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BjtIOuPiK_U/TppbekUGbwI/AAAAAAAAKhg/37Dg13x853E/s640/IMG_5823.jpg

More photos here. (https://picasaweb.google.com/110463954319256360507/WaihiMineTunnelRide#)

[nic]

Thanks for a great weekend guys and girls.

Always great to ride around the coromandel and I thoroughly enjoyed the muddy struggle to the goldmine and back.

great to meet lots of new faces too

[Squiggles]

Eddie had a few teething issues with the DR650.

Details? :corn:

[Shewolf]

great weekend guys and girls - thanks to all for making it and especially the encouragement getting through those mere 150 metres today to the Gold Mines.

Carnage and mayhem clips to come...:Punk:

248645248646248648248644248647

[Eddieb]

Details? :corn:

The joys of doing an Adventure Ride on a new bike build without having had a chance to test ride it first and iron out all the bugs.

So in no particular order:
A brand new 90 degree fuel filter that didn't seem to be flowing properly, combined with a very minor leak from one of the hose clamps onto the filter. Remedied on the way to the start line by ripping off the entire fuel line and replacing it with the fuel line from my old DR that I had fortunately had a bit of last minute foresight before leaving Wellington and had scavenged off the old bike and thrown into my topbox.

Incorrect air/fuel setups meant the bike ran fine at very low revs, and at full throttle, but couldn't pull the skim of the top of a cold porridge anywhere in between. It couldn't climb any hill and keep speed up and wouldn't run smoothly. This combined with the fuel filter meant at one stage the bike would barely do over 70km/h.
Basically the bike was getting too much air for the carb setup. I'd had to refit the stock carb with stock jetting after finding leaks in my FCR when I went to install it. This was mostly remedied by a roll of insulation tape from the gas station in Coromandel and some cardboard from the Whitianga Hotel, which were used to tape up 75% of the airbox opening on Saturday evening. Not perfect but good enough to carry on with.

And the best one:
An adjuster nut coming loose on the accelerator tension adjuster on the carb, sliding down the accelerator cable and jamming the cable at full throttle, seconds before peeling into a 90 degree 50km/h corner.
Remedied by slapping the builder about the head for slackness and making sure the nut is done up DAMN tight.

[Eddieb]

Sorry CW, it has to be done ;)

This is the face of a man selfishlessly assisting bikes over a slimey clay hump and being roosted in the face in return by a DR650. I knew I'd capture something with that rear facing camera.

248696

[Shewolf]

classic

248696

this never happened

<iframe
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sF7jeiYQ_w/iframe>

[rhino_343]

Gday blokes, my mate Sean and I will be in NZ for two weeks of riding from the 24th oCt to 7th Nov... you fellas have any rides planned in this period of time that we could tag along on? We'd behave I promise!:innocent::shutup::blink::facepalm:

[Shewolf]

Getting up the hill, some sort of good luck dance ritual that really helped.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVzu5h_7IXU

[Shewolf]

sure thing, we have a learners+Hardouts Adventure weekend 3-4th November at Rangitaiki (just out of Taupo) visit our Facebook Info page (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Akd-Gravel-Adventure-Riders-Club/157663480965972#!/pages/Akd-Gravel-Adventure-Riders-Club/157663480965972?sk=info) for details.

If youse fullas ride as well as you play rugby you'll fit right in :innocent:


Gday blokes, my mate Sean and I will be in NZ for two weeks of riding from the 24th oCt to 7th Nov... you fellas have any rides planned in this period of time that we could tag along on? We'd behave I promise!:innocent::shutup::blink::facepalm:

[Shewolf]

Into the tunnel and girly squeals of delight. Girly squeals of fear come later.


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

[.chris]

Was drunk after the rugby so decied to mash this together while I was re-hydrating.

<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/30619749?title=0&amp;byline=0&amp;portrait=0" width="800" height="450" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen allowFullScreen></iframe>

[Shewolf]

:facepalm:


Was drunk after the rugby so decied to mash this together while I was re-hydrating.

<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/30619749?title=0&amp;byline=0&amp;portrait=0" width="800" height="450" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen allowFullScreen></iframe>

[Shewolf]

Africa Twin gets frisky
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZyzyUmtw2Bk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Getting up the hill, some sort of good luck dance ritual that really helped.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/DVzu5h_7IXU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Into the tunnel and girly squeals of delight. Girly squeals of fear come later.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/huZabY_ziRs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Robert on the Dommie
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dOxUBO9Yc30" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Nic giving it some
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/66yRUwQzwmg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Garth showing how it's done
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9K12oMQT4kU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Eddie's bike well dirty now
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/GecuT4xICS8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Ians magic moment
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/J5U4Eh7N87A" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Bugger, we've got to go back again-!
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8Ffbenc2Xus" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Night Falcon]

Classic media reporting team...that mud looked sticky! :corn:

[Shewolf]

My turn...gulp
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/nN_s63d9isc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


this didn't happen
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/2sF7jeiYQ_w" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[uksteve]

looked like a great ride.
Glad i went home...........................not much fun with no electric starter. Imagine trying to kick start the bike with the kickstarter on the left side and me barely able to get a toe to the ground haha.

[ADVGD]

Great vids guys and girls :niceone:

[pete-blen]

Africa Twin gets frisky
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZyzyUmtw2Bk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Getting up the hill, some sort of good luck dance ritual that really helped.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/DVzu5h_7IXU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Into the tunnel and girly squeals of delight. Girly squeals of fear come later.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/huZabY_ziRs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Robert on the Dommie
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dOxUBO9Yc30" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Nic giving it some
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/66yRUwQzwmg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Garth showing how it's done
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9K12oMQT4kU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Eddie's bike well dirty now
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/GecuT4xICS8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Ians magic moment
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/J5U4Eh7N87A" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Bugger, we've got to go back again-!
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8Ffbenc2Xus" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Auckland gravel riding club....
NOW knowen as...
Auckland mud riding club

[rhino_343]

sure thing, we have a learners+Hardouts Adventure weekend 3-4th November at Rangitaiki (just out of Taupo) visit our Facebook Info page (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Akd-Gravel-Adventure-Riders-Club/157663480965972#!/pages/Akd-Gravel-Adventure-Riders-Club/157663480965972?sk=info) for details.

If youse fullas ride as well as you play rugby you'll fit right in :innocent:

Sounds like a good plan... be cutting it fine for us though as we fly out on the 7th of November in the morning from Aukland. Would of been good to catch up with Clint as part of this though. Will see how we go! Thanks for the offer though.. and I will leave the rugby comment well alone...

[Bass]

Now why is it, that whenever I make a dick of myself, there is someone around with a camera to record it for posterity.
Maybe it's because I do it so often, that some of it is bound to get recorded.

[Eddieb]

I've put a gallery of pics up here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.279022855452783.68857.195801783774891&type=1

[Eddieb]

and some video

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Akv9m6FUlFk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Rosie]

Sounds like a good plan... be cutting it fine for us though as we fly out on the 7th of November in the morning from Aukland. Would of been good to catch up with Clint as part of this though. Will see how we go! Thanks for the offer though.. and I will leave the rugby comment well alone...

That weekend is Clint's birthday campout at Minginui, in the same general area the Rangitaiki ride - I think some people may be popping across from Rangitaiki to pay us a visit. Clint posted up a bit about it earlier in the thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/137911-Auckland-Gravel-Adventure-Riding-Club?p=1130152238#post1130152238).

[Shewolf]

this could easily turn into Clints Birthday Roast :shifty:

[clint640]

That weekend is Clint's birthday campout at Minginui, in the same general area the Rangitaiki ride - I think some people may be popping across from Rangitaiki to pay us a visit. Clint posted up a bit about it earlier in the thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/137911-Auckland-Gravel-Adventure-Riding-Club?p=1130152238#post1130152238).

Yup, & Rhino, it is about a 4hr ride back to Auckland from Minginui so you guys could easily stay the night there with us & get back to the big smoke ok on Sunday 6th with time to take a few scenic diversions on the way.

Cheers
Clint

[Shewolf]

Crikey I've barely recovered from last weekend...here's the next one...

05th/06th Nov - Rangitaiki Warm Trail Excursion
Learner training plus hardout's trail afternoon

Friday: I'll be heading down after lunch towards Taupo so if any want to meet up Bombay BP lets say 1pm. I'm sure we can find some gravel on the way. :sunny:

Friday accom and evening entertainment: Arrange your own and TBA
* see earlier posts regarding some accom options and phone numbers.

Saturday:
Meet up in the pumice pit first thing Sat morning. (Actual time and location to be advised - probably a convoy from Taupo will be arranged.)
After short training stint, we will do a grass berm run out to Rangitaiki pub.

LUNCH at Rangitaki pub

PM: shorter loops for our novice folk, or more exp and those looking for more will head out high into the hills further up.

Another option available after will be to head out via MMMMM Cold loop over the stream crossing (due to wash outs) and go visit Clint and Rosie. Please pm Clint640 if you wish to take this option and camp there Sat night. Jim will escort those out there and then will head back.

Sat night: Dinner at Stag Diner (open 24 hrs for those Dakar-types lost in the forest :shutup:)

[Waihou Thumper]

I put a little video together:)


http://vimeo.com/30864258

[Shewolf]

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

[Shewolf]

This is a small and big bike friendly ride. There will be a lot of off-road riding in mixed conditions, therefore knobs are recommended. See below for details:


Road legal bikes only
Knobs recommended (or at least a knob on the front wheel)
Morning plan: 8:45 meet at Mobil Taupo (at the turnoff to Napier/Taupo highway)
Ride to Pumice Pit, Off-road training and grass berm ride (approx 75km)
Lunch: Rangitaiki Pub
Afternoon plan:
Learners: Potter around easy tracks at Rangitaiki
Advanced: Forest loops (24km) and ride to Minginui then back (120 km)
Rangitaiki - Taupo 60km
Total day mileage 280km
A trailer will be available to take fuel and gear out to Rangitaiki. Bring a named fuel can if you have less than 280km capacity and want to refuel at Rangitaiki.
Evening plan: dinner Rangitaiki or Stag Park Diner Taupo (determined on day)


Short clip of some of the berms we'll be riding up

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26n2oCBp63M

[Night Falcon]

looking forward to meeting some more hard (and soft) core kiwi bikers ! I will becoming from Napier so will probably meet somewhere near the pummice pit....for some fun time....if someone can tell me where it is and approx time of arrival?

The berms have some cool riding but there are some things you need to be mindful of:
1. the long grasssy strips are way cool for some "air" time when ya hit the bumps...but only when the grass is low! I had a rear top box disintergrate once after some unexpected whoops at 100klm :facepalm:

2. There are some cool clay forestry tracks to explore that run parrallel to the highway but becareful on the blind corners as the foresty lads dig the odd "bike swallowing" holes in places....slow and steady and theres no worries!:yes:

[suzieq]

Sorry CW, it has to be done ;)

This is the face of a man selfishlessly assisting bikes over a slimey clay hump and being roosted in the face in return by a DR650. I knew I'd capture something with that rear facing camera.

248696


Moira you love the man, so you must love alllll of the faces that go with the man Nice one Ed

[Eddieb]

Saturday from the Coromandel Explore ride

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/iOizKBv6Al8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Sunday footage from the mudfest near Waihi with Cave Weta of Over The Top Adventures.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9kxCy10EhN4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Night Falcon]

nice work Eddie...cool vids.

[offrd]

Anyone in Auckland or south heading down to the ride 4/5/6th on friday? Could group ride and terrorize the traffic

I will be heading down Friday, basing out of taupo for the weekend.


:scooter:

[Shewolf]

yep, will get away about 1pm I think, hoping to find some gravel on the way - know of any?:corn:


Anyone in Auckland or south heading down to the ride 4/5/6th on friday? Could group ride and terrorize the traffic

I will be heading down Friday, basing out of taupo for the weekend.


:scooter:

[pete-blen]

Great vids...
Looks like another good ride on the :scooter:
Hope the crash & burn jocky on the AT faired all right:Oops:

[offrd]

yep, will get away about 1pm I think, hoping to find some gravel on the way - know of any?:corn:

Cool, time should be good! Umm i dont really know much of the area and roads up this way for gravel.....:facepalm:

[Shewolf]

North of Rangitaiki there is a gravel carpark on the corner of SH5 and Clarance Rd, I think it's on the left by memory - we'll be there by 9.30am if you get there before us we won't be too far away :sunny:


looking forward to meeting some more hard (and soft) core kiwi bikers ! I will becoming from Napier so will probably meet somewhere near the pummice pit....for some fun time....if someone can tell me where it is and approx time of arrival?

[offrd]

North of Rangitaiki there is a gravel carpark on the corner of SH5 and Clarance Rd, I think it's on the left by memory - we'll be there by 9.30am if you get there before us we won't be too far away :sunny:

Is that a bush road? cant find that on google maps?

[Shewolf]

yep my google-phoo failed me, this is what it looks like anyway '54

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26n2oCBp63M

[offrd]

Taharua Road i would say, you heading towards taupo during that vid?

[offrd]

Might work....

<iframe width="562" height="314" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.co.nz/?ie=UTF8&amp;t=h&amp;vpsrc=0&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-38.844303,176.287506&amp;panoid=VGqJAx6ngGR4lYMfP2StAw &amp;cbp=13,82.13,,0,0&amp;ll=-38.845747,176.288456&amp;spn=0.002624,0.00603&amp;z=17&amp;sou rce=embed&amp;output=svembed"></iframe><br /><small><a href="http://maps.google.co.nz/?ie=UTF8&amp;t=h&amp;vpsrc=0&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-38.844303,176.287506&amp;panoid=VGqJAx6ngGR4lYMfP2StAw &amp;cbp=13,82.13,,0,0&amp;ll=-38.845747,176.288456&amp;spn=0.002624,0.00603&amp;z=17&amp;sou rce=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a></small>

[Shewolf]

yeah sorry, passing on info from Sue who actually knows where we're going! Will get someone to head down early to the spot so you won't miss us :sunny:

[Eddieb]

Part 2 of the Sunday goldmine ride on the Coromandel Explore trip.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/MLsfhiXOFmg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Shewolf]

yep thats the one, junction of Taharua and Clements Rd...not Clarence.


Might work....

[offrd]

yep thats the one, junction of Taharua and Clements Rd...not Clarence.

SH5 Napier Taupo and Taharua Rd is the gravel area.


Taharua and Clements Rd is about 10km down Taharua road...

[Eddieb]

And part 3 of the Sunday goldmine ride on the Coromandel Explore trip. This is the trip back down, including back over the hump and through the tunnel again.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/d-zGvMAjGao" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[suzieq]

And part 3 of the Sunday goldmine ride on the Coromandel Explore trip. This is the trip back down, including back over the hump and through the tunnel again.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/d-zGvMAjGao" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


"RANGITAIKI MEET UP POINT AND TIME" 05TH NOVEMBER WEEKEND

Meet up point for those coming from NAPIER end of Nap/Taupo highway will be Taharua Road on the coner in the gravel pit, turn off the main highway and wait in the gravel pit at the beginning of the road. Your meet up time with us leaving from Taupo end will be 9:30am. DO NOT exit down the road, we will join you at 9:30am. I will have a trailer available at the service station in the mng to cart any extra fuel and supplies out to Rangitaiki pub. Plse allow for a max of 280kms over our day. No fuel stops between here and Whirinaki forestry camp. So plse use this fuel stop in the mng to top up those bikes, and bring along plenty of fluids also.

Meet up for those coming from TAUPO, will be Mobil Service Station 9 am on the corner of Lake Terrace which is the bottom end of Nap/Taupo highway, we will ride a mix of seal and pumice berms on the way UP the highway. Taharua road is on the RIGHT for those of us coming up this way. We will allllll meet in the gravel pit meet up time of 9:30am.

249764

[suzieq]

"RANGITAIKI MEET UP POINT AND TIME" 05TH NOVEMBER WEEKEND

Meet up point for those coming from NAPIER end of Nap/Taupo highway will be Taharua Road on the coner in the gravel pit, turn off the main highway and wait in the gravel pit at the beginning of the road. Your meet up time with us leaving from Taupo end will be 9:30am. DO NOT exit down the road, we will join you at 9:30am. I will have a trailer available at the service station in the mng to cart any extra fuel and supplies out to Rangitaiki pub. Plse allow for a max of 280kms over our day. No fuel stops between here and Whirinaki forestry camp. So plse use this fuel stop in the mng to top up those bikes, and bring along plenty of fluids also.

Meet up for those coming from TAUPO, will be Mobil Service Station 9 am on the corner of Lake Terrace which is the bottom end of Nap/Taupo highway, we will ride a mix of seal and pumice berms on the way UP the highway. Taharua road is on the RIGHT for those of us coming up this way. We will allllll meet in the gravel pit meet up time of 9:30am.

249764

For more details on the programme for our Rangitaiki Trail Ride at the weekend, please view the updated details on our facebook page, we have many pix showing the terrain you will be riding over. There are pics of the easy pumice berms to begin with, thru to the wash-outs that will need to be negotiated thru aka (Team Effort) on our Gravel Road Ride out to Whirinaki Forest Camp. Will be good to say a big hi to Duncan at The Buggers Bar at lunch break. Birthday celebrations are also on at Whirinaki............. more on that you will need come join and make your way over to Whirinaki to see what this is all about????
2498212498222498232498242498252498260 [url]

http://www.facebook.com/suzette.denham#!/pages/Akd-Gravel-Adventure-Riders-Club/157663480965972

On our facebook page, on the left hand side, click on INFO and it will bring you up with the more updated programme details for this ride.

[Night Falcon]

Sorry, but have to pike on this adventure :crybaby: Went for a test ride on the 690 to see how my knee/foot was holding up after the last op, only to find its not there yet :weep:...ok for easy sitting down stuff but cant hack standing or rough (the good) stuff. I'm a bit gutted as was REALLY looking forward to this ride! :brick:

Will look forward to the ride report and photos....my lot at the moment :doctor: ....but I'll be back by golly :angry2: ....as wise man once said..."you can chop off a strong mans legs...but that will never de-feet him"

[suzieq]

Sorry, but have to pike on this adventure :crybaby: Went for a test ride on the 690 to see how my knee/foot was holding up after the last op, only to find its not there yet :weep:...ok for easy sitting down stuff but cant hack standing or rough (the good) stuff. I'm a bit gutted as was REALLY looking forward to this ride! :brick:

Will look forward to the ride report and photos....my lot at the moment :doctor: ....but I'll be back by golly :angry2: ....as wise man once said..."you can chop off a strong mans legs...but that will never de-feet him"

oh well I guess we don't get to meet you this time round, but we will be back again, This time round you need to do the right thing, look out for those feets of course ....................you only get one set. Plenty of good times coming up. Worth the wait. Let the good times roll. Catch you up another outing. Suzieq over and out, for just now..............(there's those fullstops again) LOL

[DR Girl]

Have a great weekend Suziq & team. :bye: Being so close, would love to join you for the day but tied up helping at our daughter's dance dress rehersal & off to Welly Sunday. Oldest has to depart & clean gear out of his hostel.

[Shewolf]

Have a great weekend Suziq & team. :bye: Being so close, would love to join you for the day but tied up helping at our daughter's dance dress rehersal & off to Welly Sunday. Oldest has to depart & clean gear out of his hostel.

catch you on another ride!

We bumped into xrjohnny at Rangitaiki and Kiwipete at Whirinaki campsite, sorry to have missed you Rosie and birthday boy - expect you're having a goodun judging by the amount of people and beer there! :drinknsin:

We had a fantastic play around and through the forests, those grassy berms look so innocuous from the road, it's a different story when you're riding through them :clap:

Great fun, some minor 'moments' of which are captured for our viewing pleasure :rolleyes:

Here a few of the pics - mostly frame grabs...

250071250072250073250074250075

[Shewolf]

a few more pics

250079250078250080250076250077

[offrd]

Indeed a great ride!

Am somewhat sore this morning, that will learn me for not turning off gravity... Good thing DR is strong!

They do say what goes up must come down! :doh:

Must pack and head home soon!

[Shewolf]

my wrists are a bit munted - that was more fun than a bouncy castle :eek:

[suzieq]

Indeed a great ride!

Am somewhat sore this morning, that will learn me for not turning off gravity... Good thing DR is strong!

They do say what goes up must come down! :doh:

Must pack and head home soon!

Nice to catch you up at the weekend, :niceone: Jim and I will catch you up next time we are down Taupo for another fun day out in the Rangitaiki area; we will keep in touch. Also, will let you know when Jim and I will do that fishing trip in the Kaiangaroa, must make the time to do this shortly, exciting, I have my fishing line all ready, and I even found a fly:msn-wink:. Will look forwards to catch up on our Sun mng also 04th Dec for our shortish South Head beach run. Lots to look forwards to.[R RATED][/R RATED]

[suzieq]

Have a great weekend Suziq & team. :bye: Being so close, would love to join you for the day but tied up helping at our daughter's dance dress rehersal & off to Welly Sunday. Oldest has to depart & clean gear out of his hostel.

Hi, the team had a fun day out, will keep in touch and let you know when Jim and I are down Taupo area next, you might like to join us on a fishing trip we are planning over Xmas/Jan in the Kaiangaroa forestry, I have a couple of spare flys I found just waiting to be attached to our lines:msn-wink: Catch you up soon.

[Night Falcon]

nice photos suzie looks like you had some fun.

[offrd]

Good trip back to Aux, Few showers!

Still sore! Hmmmm LOL

Cant wait to see videos of the ride!

[Shewolf]

yep, highlights are just finishing encoding - hey what brand are those bendy mirrors do you know? They look pretty effective for mishaps - do they vibrate any when riding?


Good trip back to Aux, Few showers!

Still sore! Hmmmm LOL

Cant wait to see videos of the ride!

[offrd]

yep, highlights are just finishing encoding - hey what brand are those bendy mirrors do you know? They look pretty effective for mishaps - do they vibrate any when riding?

The bendy mirrors are great for mishaps, they are however totally useless as mirrors, no more vibration than normal, but they flop over at the slightest breeze! Im going to have a look and see if they tighten up in any way under the rubber cover, if not i have a friend Mr Rubbish Binnie that they will be removed and thrown at!

Stupid floppy mirrors.......... Grrrrrr:msn-wink:

[Shewolf]

a few clips from yesterdays ride. Bike fell over onto helmet and camera - scratched the housing so naff qual, hopefully it will buff out!


http://youtu.be/uR9UHU2aFZ0

[offrd]

Awesome vid! :niceone:

[NordieBoy]

a few clips from yesterdays ride. Bike fell over onto helmet and camera - scratched the housing so naff qual, hopefully it will buff out!

Good stuff.

I like slow technical stuff, I don't get yelled at for being too slow :scooter:

[suzieq]

Good stuff.

I like slow technical stuff, I don't get yelled at for being too slow :scooter:


:clap:Yes, my sentiments exactly...........

[Rosie]

We bumped into xrjohnny at Rangitaiki and Kiwipete at Whirinaki campsite, sorry to have missed you Rosie and birthday boy - expect you're having a goodun judging by the amount of people and beer there! :drinknsin:

Yeah, it was a shame we missed you guys. It was a really good weekend, Saturday's 4WDing yielded some tracks that would be suitable for an adventure-trail overnighter :niceone:

[suzieq]

http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd396/suzieq1250/382162_224851300913856_157663480965972_629226_1197 562491_n.jpg

Meet BP Bombay Sat mng November 19th 9am sharp plse - We will ride many kms of gravel roads over our day; our destination being Waitomo for our planned overnight stay. Options can be to ride part day if you wish and then head back.

First mng stop Nikau Caves, refreshment stop. Second stop TE UKU 1PM where we will meet up with our mystery sponsors.:2thumbsup First refuel stop will be Raglan and you will need 200kms in tht tank. Bring along a small fuel can if you cannot make the first 200km to the fuel stop. Out and along many kms of scenic coastline and our planned overnight destination Waitomo. Those living out South could also look to join in TE UKU at our 1PM STOP. Lunch plan :apint: is for Raglan approx time 2PM meet up. Well deserved stop here. (If you are joining part way thru the day plse make a note of the times for these stops and possible meet up points. We will regroup at the Raglan Servo and depart from here as a group again, plse report back to Raglan servo at the allotted time as we will depart on from here on time. We have full day ride planned and need to keep roughly to our times.

Options can be to ride as little or as many kms of gravel roads over your day. Plse let ride leader know at each of our planned stops what your plans are. End of day destination for those continuing on out South will be Waitomo. Your ride, your choice.

Accommodation options could be:
http://www.cavesmotorinn.co.nz/location.htm
or
http://www.waitomo.com/accommodation-options.aspx

All welcome, at this stage we also have a small number in attendance that will be along on the Road Bikes. So looking to ride the roadie route to accompany mates at the stops during the day or for evening come along.

Further queries can f b us and under the INFO panel on the left hand side click on this link and further details can be found there.
http://www.facebook.com/suzette.denham#!/pages/Akd-Gravel-Adventure-Riders-Club/157663480965972

[Shewolf]

http://youtu.be/bXRoeLXGLTA

[Shewolf]

found this from Waihi Over the top Adventures day. :laugh:


http://youtu.be/GDUNLuj17Us

[suzieq]

looked like a great ride.
Glad i went home...........................not much fun with no electric starter. Imagine trying to kick start the bike with the kickstarter on the left side and me barely able to get a toe to the ground haha.

Parked up on the highway, we were wondering where you were, not like the OJ machine to NOT be behind us, hope the bike is running well now for this weekend :niceone:

[suzieq]

http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd396/suzieq1250/382162_224851300913856_157663480965972_629226_1197 562491_n.jpg

Meet BP Bombay Sat mng November 19th 9am sharp plse - We will ride many kms of gravel roads over our day; our destination being Waitomo for our planned overnight stay. Options can be to ride part day if you wish and then head back.

First mng stop Nikau Caves, refreshment stop. Second stop TE UKU 1PM where we will meet up with our mystery sponsors.:2thumbsup First refuel stop will be Raglan and you will need 200kms in tht tank. Bring along a small fuel can if you cannot make the first 200km to the fuel stop. Out and along many kms of scenic coastline and our planned overnight destination Waitomo. Those living out South could also look to join in TE UKU at our 1PM STOP. Lunch plan :apint: is for Raglan approx time 2PM meet up. Well deserved stop here. (If you are joining part way thru the day plse make a note of the times for these stops and possible meet up points. We will regroup at the Raglan Servo and depart from here as a group again, plse report back to Raglan servo at the allotted time as we will depart on from here on time. We have full day ride planned and need to keep roughly to our times.

Options can be to ride as little or as many kms of gravel roads over your day. Plse let ride leader know at each of our planned stops what your plans are. End of day destination for those continuing on out South will be Waitomo. Your ride, your choice.

Accommodation options could be:
http://www.cavesmotorinn.co.nz/location.htm
or
http://www.waitomo.com/accommodation-options.aspx

All welcome, at this stage we also have a small number in attendance that will be along on the Road Bikes. So looking to ride the roadie route to accompany mates at the stops during the day or for evening come along.

Further queries can f b us and under the INFO panel on the left hand side click on this link and further details can be found there.
http://www.facebook.com/suzette.denham#!/pages/Akd-Gravel-Adventure-Riders-Club/157663480965972


Wow What An Awsome Weekend We All Had

Nice Vid Clip Made For Us Akd Gravel Adventure Riders Club wishes to thanks Stu from Over The Top Adventures For Making This For Us
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePG7xnFP92U&feature=youtu.be

"More Pics to Hand and another viewing to be enjoyed"
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=277336238978161


Thanks to all who attended our ride
"Awsome weather, awsome places to go, people to meet and many many things to seee"

[Baldyman]

Great ride.

Thanks to all.

Great pics and video.

See you on the next one.

[suzieq]

Great ride.

Thanks to all.

Great pics and video.

See you on the next one.

Nice to catch YOU up again Great YOU enjoyed your ride also (suzieq):niceone:

[suzieq]

http://youtu.be/bXRoeLXGLTA

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=269467796431672

[george formby]

[QUOTE=Shewolf;1130189860]a few clips from yesterdays ride. Bike fell over onto helmet and camera - scratched the housing so naff qual, hopefully it will buff out!


Ditto. Copped a few branches last time I was out on Krusty. I've buffed & buffed to no avail too. Looks like ewes is all having fun.

[suzieq]

FEB 18TH/19TH - BAYLYS BEACH/POUTU POINT



Ride commences Sat mng 18th Feb from Dargaville based area

You may choose to be at Dargaville on the Fri night for early mng Sat start, or you may ride and be present at start time on Sat mng.

PLANNED ACCOMMODATION:
http://www.kauricoasttop10.co.nz/kauri-coast-dargaville.html
Cabins and tent sites available for this weekend

Ride commences Sat mng with gravel roads/forestry road and also beach run.

PLANNED BBQ COOKIE-UP ON SAT NIGHT:
All attending this ride to bring shared food for BBQ cook up dinner sat night and also beverages you require also. Could be sausages/meat selection and also salad,bread, sauce etc. any food items for a SHARED cook up on our sat night. Breakfast on Sun mng can also be a cook up in the camp kitchens, we will need bacon, eggs, bread, marg, sauce etc for brekkie cook up also before we hit the road on our Sun.

- Pillions and partners most welcome, we have these in attendance and family members most welcome.

- Support vehicles on hand at the meet up point of our ride to take food supplies and B Y O supplies over to the accomm.
Plse name all supplies.
- Options available for scenic viewing available for those attending also on YOUR saturday. You will have company so please
come along.
- Road riders also welcome. We have a ride leader to take you out and about on the saturday and view attractions over your
day also.

On the sun, any who wish we have a scenic place of interest to go visit before we all depart for home. This place offers another light play area for the mng also. For those "camera' snappy" you will NOT want to miss this place.
As with our rides to date, we will look to have two ride routes happening.

Any who wish to ride on the sand, and are unsure of "HOW TO", we willl get "ALLL BIKES" onto the sand for the start of the beach run. So if you wish to give this a go, you willl be looked after by experienced riders who will show you "How It Is Done" and will assist. This will be a team effort for allll.

Tyre Choice: If intending to tackle the "BEACH RUN" yes TKC80's a good choice. Any further tyre choices for YOUR individual bikes plse contact Ian at Cycle Treads and plse mention Gravel Riders Club. If just riding the gravel road and forestry road section dual purpose tyres perfect. Plse fuel up bikes to full capacity at Dargaville prior to the commencement of this ride.

Ride Fee applies for this ride
$5 club members and $20 non club members

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: I have just spoken to the manageress of this TOP 10 Holiday Park. I have 30 beds available for this ride. The arrangement to hand is the pricing of the units to sleep 30 people will be added and this total divided by the number of people in attendance. So if you wish to have first pick at the arrangements, plse contact Kauri Coast Top 10 Holiday Park to register your interest. Mention Gravel Riders Weekend. Email is preferred method for YOUR accommodation. Email kauricoast.top10@xtra.co.nz and ATTN: HEATHER (camp manageress) Those booking early will get their preference on sleeping arrangements. WE are looking to utilise alll 30 beds to get a standard rate across the board for alll. So if you know others, make your bookings together to ulitilse all beds in each unit. We will alll pay the same accomm amount across the board, so if 30 beds are filled then same rate applies and will be discounted also. Will work out good for us alll.
Accomm will be first in first served. Tent sites are also available for any wishing to camp overnight either on the Fri or The Sat.

[suzieq]

Wow since May of this year, our club has come ahead well.

The start of the New Year is nearly upon us and we will make a name change for our club.

AKD GRAVEL ADVENTURE RIDERS CLUB will become NORTHERN GRAVEL ADVENTURE RIDERS CLUB as of the end of this week.


If you are interested in our rides and what we have up and coming for the 2012 - 2013 year, look up what we have pencilled in
We use facebook as our club page, and I have made two pages, one is our CLUB MEM page and this is our closed and secret posting group available for all club members to post into. Non members will not see what is posted inside this page. Interested in joining us, send a frend request and I will add you to this group. WE will become an official club as at the end of Jan 2012. All members will be sent a club member application form to fill in and post back to me. Club membership will run for 12 months thru to the end of Jan 2013.

High on the list for our new official membership club will be obtaining a forestry permit. We will purchase one as soon as funds allow. They don't come cheap. We will then look to host our very own adventure rides in various forests around the country. WE also have a number of weekend away rides planned for the 2012 year. Some unique to us and will also be hosted by me personally. We have a number of highly experienced road and enduro/adventure riders amongst our members and as such we will also look to hold our very own gravel road riding training. WE are planning on holding these every three months in varying locations. Interest has also been high for new ride leaders. We will look to have a number of one day rides both out South and out West. We will rotate our ride areas also along with our new ride leaders.

To keep your link open if you use facebook click on the http:// link at the top of your facebook page when your club page is open. Click copy and then click on the STAR to the top right of your screen. Click ADD to ADD this link to your favourites. It will be on tap and available to you at any time without the need to key it in constantly.

Sue D happy riding over the coming Xmas and New Year season.

[Team Buffoon]

And if we do not have nor want a Facebook page how do we join and/or find out wotzon? Is there another option?

[suzieq]

Sorry we use facebook. As club secretary I am taking membership requests and I do also mail people each month
with what is happening also.

Our facebook page is our window to the outside world.

You can contact club secretary: steelmaiden1250@hotmail.com for a membership form and to register your interest, I will add you
to my club membership mailing list on return email from you. You can also pm me here on K Biker site.

Sorry for the confusion. Yes f book can be a pain also to maintain. Email is direct link to alll as well as, along with pm here on the Kiwi Biker site. We re now having sponsors etc wishing us to use facebook and to work in with them also. So we do need a page; Websites are also expensive. Later when we get further with our new club we may be able to have a club website. But in the meantime plse either pm me or email me and I will add you to our mem list. The membership forms will be posted out after Xmas and New Yeal hols. You can fill these out and mail them back to me. We now have a new treasurer also who will handle our accounts for us. So that is fantastic news. Thanks for your interest. This club is going to be a success for alll of us. Membership cards will also be mailed by return to you also.

Sue
New name end of this week NORTHERN GRAVEL ADVENTURE RIDERS CLUB

[suzieq]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=OT3olgpdaGQ

Chris just makes it allll look so easy

From Dakar/ The Roof of Africa - Chris is seen here riding the KTM950 big adventure bike through the Mohaka region of the North Island

Excellent viewing

[suzieq]

UPCOMING CHRIS BIRCH RIDE THIS SUNDAY THE 18TH

Yes our members will be attending the Birchie ride on this Sunday the 18th

Team orange will be in attendance

CHRIS IS BACK and we are ON.....................Coming to a small township of Waimauku this Sunday the 18th - VENUE: 148 Waikuku Valley Road, TIME: 9am, Come and ride.............. Chris presents to us 'Playtime In The Valley' Chris will lead an organised ride and two routes will be running. Snacks provided for you, and expect to end your day 3 - 4pm. Wanting to 'mix it up' with our champ, lets help support Chris Birch with a small donation, no matter how big or small and lets get Chris on hiis way to DAKAR. Chris leaves N.Z. again very soon in a couple of weeks only, so come meet and great him.

[NordieBoy]

Chris just makes it allll look so easy
I'm getting better at watching vids now, I only had anxiety attacks on a couple of corners.

[suzieq]

The Big 950cc Team OJ does it alll so wellll I can't wait to see Chris in action at the weekend I mean if I see him in action, I may be missing in action, or taken out more like it. I think I would only be viewing the mud splats from those back wheels. He is a force to be reckoned with, and we will be following his progress on a daily basis over the upcoming DAKAR season. It is all so very exciting. I mean I can't remember a Xmas ever being THIS exciting. So very much to look forwards to. He is an amazing athlete and just a general alll rounder all rolled in together. I forgot to also say he is one hell of a nice guy. Does it get any better LOL :laugh:

[suzieq]

I'm getting better at watching vids now, I only had anxiety attacks on a couple of corners.
Get those viewing specs of yours on, I feel many more vids coming YOUR ways. (Since you are enjoying it alll so much, well why stop when I am having so much fun:laugh:)???? I will ATTEMPT to give you a much needed rest over the xmas hol season, but be prepared for m o r e afterwards. I know you will be disappointed if i DID NOT keep up the extremely good work :laugh:

More.............. hmmmmmmm what can I post up next to keep you amused??????????

[suzieq]

Get those viewing specs of yours on, I feel many more vids coming YOUR ways. (Since you are enjoying it alll so much, well why stop when I am having so much fun:laugh:)???? I will ATTEMPT to give you a much needed rest over the xmas hol season, but be prepared for m o r e afterwards. I know you will be disappointed if i DID NOT keep up the extremely good work :laugh:

More.............. hmmmmmmm what can I post up next to keep you amused??????????

Wait, sorry I am back, I simply could not help myself I am now running on overload syndrome.......... watch for more epic VIDS up and coming, we have a new 950cc ADVENT KTM joining in our ranks for the new season. Phew where this man DOES not go on this bike, will make for excellent viewing, if you ARE ALLLL VERY good I just may be tempted to post up a pic for you to view hmmm maybe next week, I will title this ]WHO DOES SUZIEQ MEET ON THE SIDE OF THAT ROAD[/SIZE]????? you know I am now building up quite a selection under this caption title.......... Will I keep you intrigued until next weeek????....... some arm twisting needed here and I may be swayed to post a tempter before next weeeeeeeeek:laugh:

[suzieq]

And if we do not have nor want a Facebook page how do we join and/or find out wotzon? Is there another option?

DON'T WORRY I WILL SOON FIX THAT, SUZIEQ IS COMING THRU FOR YOU...... I WILL NOW SPEND MY TIME CORRECTING THIS ALERGIC REACTION FOR YOU, AND i will now spend qualtiy time right here for you all as welllll as. This is the site where the fun never stops, well nor do I basically:laugh: I will endeavour to keep you updated and (hopefully AMUSED right here on prime time viewing also, WATCH THIS SPACE:laugh:

[suzieq]

WANT IT??????? SAND/BEACH/FORESTRY/GRAVEL

ACCOMM = Book yours now,,,,,,, 15 beds gone so far, and Xmas not even upon us yet........ so promises to be a goodie

http://bmwor.org.nz/forum/index.php/topic,2544.0.html

I Hope you guys can coook it as well as you can ride it All very good to flick that gravel and soft stuff over the day, but
you also need to help serve it up at the end of the day. :laugh: Communal bbq on tap and yes, B Y O is on with the liquid stuff
at the end of the day also.

So get YOUR beds booked now........... bring your bollie and a few slabs of the protein variety and come meet and great us

Vehicle in atendance to take supplies out to accom. It is looking like another goodie.

[NordieBoy]

Step away from the amphetamines...

[suzieq]

TEAM KTM in attendance Watch this...............


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJINk6_-GB4

[suzieq]

Step away from the amphetamines...


Thanks, I knew there was something amiss, but couldn't quite put tabs on it:laugh:

[suzieq]

FRIDAY the 16th DECEMBER 2011 we will make our official change of name for our club


AKD GRAVEL ADVENTURE RIDERS CLUB will become known as NORTHERN GRAVEL ADVENTURE RIDERS CLUB

[suzieq]

New promotion being launched at the moment in support for Chris Birch and his upcoming "DAKAR"

KTM has come to the party and has donated a brand new, 2012 300EXC to auction off during the course of the Rally. Together with ilabb, Fox, Sandpit Motorbike Park, Red Bull and Hyde, we have a fabtastic package available for one lucky rider!

http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd396/suzieq1250/DarbiandthenewKTMshop003.jpg




http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd396/suzieq1250/DarbiandthenewKTMshop002.jpg

I visited the new CycleSpot Euro store to collect parts for our KTM450EXC bike which we have been stripping down to make ready for the Dusty Butt coming up in Jan 2012 and spotted this demo in the corner of the shop. Nice touch I thought. Having a brand new KTM dealer over the shore really handy for us that live out West.:first:

This new store is also holding a BMW MOTORRAD TEST RIDE day both sat and sun this weekend. Bookings are being taken from 9am.
They also have a most awsome selection of KTM bikes to be viewed also. WE are very plsed to have new KTM dealer so close.

http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd396/suzieq1250/DarbiandthenewKTMshop005.jpg

[suzieq]

It was an excellent turnout and an excellent ride.

Meeting up at 9am at the local family Waikoukou Valley Farm Chris took everyone on quite an entertaining ride. The ride covered much varying terrain. Exiting the Waikoukou Valley Farm short gravel roading section winding its way out and along the Ararimu Valley. This road borders the RiverHead Forestry. Ther berms along the edges of this forestry offer up a great selection of 4 x 4 rutted clay tracks. Prior to the ride on the Sun, it had been raining consistanly for nearly an entire week. Nice....... wet clay provides for some very interesting tracks. Buxtons Farm a nice choice, and this offered up an exp route also for those looking for that extra. Out along the back-country roads made for blasting it along Muriwai beach. A highlight for many, this was a nice add-on. The lake was the exit and this show-cased more interesting times.

[suzieq]

First episode in our series of short vid cam clips..............




http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3 D87ksHwppej4&h=IAQGkD4HuAQHfHxATaiemSHYJ9W1crdlhCkXtLfz7s2f7_g


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87ksHwppej4

[suzieq]

Episode Part #2

Berming it around the RiverHead Forestry boundaries and The Gravel Road Rde along Ararimu Valley Road
- heading towards the next Farm Block




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mpgn62oFNjE&feature=plcp&context=C38f8afcUDOEgsToPDskKN4a_xgour823C6X-wNn5O

[suzieq]

Footage in Chris Rides the 950cc Advent Bike and has fun on the sands


http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v496/jeb441/video/?action=view&current=donut2.mp4

[suzieq]

Next Episode featuring Buxton's Farm will be streamed online here t o m o r r o w...............


Regards Sue D

More pix and more episodes coming up

[suzieq]

I felt guilty that I had also NOTTTT provided you ALLL with some still pix...........but please offset this with your sounds turned up LOUDDDDD

This is my interpretation of Chirs's ride to everyone yes THUNDERSTRUCK and having some funnnnnn:lol:





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUy-UHTXs0Q&feature=youtu.be

[suzieq]

EPISODE TAKE #5


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUfdhadngGw&feature=plcp&context=C38f8afcUDOEgsToPDskKN4a_xgour823C6X-wNn5O

[suzieq]

WELL HERE WE HAVE IT Have we saved the best for last?????????????


No, we have more later............





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

[suzieq]

:done:New pics in from Doug for us all to enjoy


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62C5sXHpTu0&feature=plcp&context=C3e78b3dUDOEgsToPDskKN4a_xgour823C6X-wNn5O

[suzieq]

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chrisbirch.co.nz%2Fconten t%2Fargentina-here-i-come&h=TAQEKsCSP


http://www.chrisbirch.co.nz/content/argentina-here-i-come

[suzieq]

A nice day exploring the entrance way to the Tukino Ski Fields. Excellent day. Something we will do again.

http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd396/suzieq1250/DSC00184.jpg

http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd396/suzieq1250/OutandAboutXmas2011018.jpg


http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd396/suzieq1250/DSC00218.jpg


http://i1217.photobucket.com/albums/dd396/suzieq1250/DSC00191-1.jpg

[NordieBoy]

Nice pics (while they last)...

[offrd]

Yeah very nice pix!:woohoo:

[Waihou Thumper]

Resize them pictures, FAST!! :facepalm:

[suzieq]

Nice pics (while they last)...


Thanks I have more but am on limited inet whilst we are on holidays

I have more looking from the top of Tukino down back into Waiouru


Will post more online tomorrow

Was an excellent day exploring Tukino ::mobile:

[suzieq]

Resize them pictures, FAST!! :facepalm:

Thanks will get onto it later this afternoon


Sue D I have more of Ngaruhoe etc and they are great

[offrd]

You need to re-size them to under 100kb or put them in as attachments not embedded or they will be removed.....

The moderators are at war....:facepalm:

[@ndy]

Hi all !
Just bought my first adventure bike (DR 650 '90) and loving it !
I come from small engine, sport type bikes tho so I'll be keen to learn from riders with more experience and meet for rides.
Do you think my bike (older thumper, kind of heavy and slow but solid) would be suitable for the type of riding you guys do?
About me... I can ride but like to take it slow (on the road) and enjoy the NZ scenery, not much of a racer :laugh:

Cheers,
Andy.

[suzieq]

Hi all !
Just bought my first adventure bike (DR 650 '90) and loving it !
I come from small engine, sport type bikes tho so I'll be keen to learn from riders with more experience and meet for rides.
Do you think my bike (older thumper, kind of heavy and slow but solid) would be suitable for the type of riding you guys do?
About me... I can ride but like to take it slow (on the road) and enjoy the NZ scenery, not much of a racer :laugh:

Cheers,
Andy.


Hi Andy I am also new to adventure riding and yes we have very fast along for our rides but then we also have the NEW people like myself (keeping it polite) NEW excellent term but we will be upskilling as we go along We all had to start someplace So welcome onboard the freedom express Riding amongst the rocks as my Reporoa friends terms it SIMPLY DIVINE I will have a new calendar of rides which will also be posted under the Calendar section here on K Biker site also. Our new club we will look to provide something a little different for the upcoming New Year. Always and forever on the hunt for interesting places to explore. I have a BIG bike at home but this holidays my husband is taking time out to teach me some skills over varying terrain. All new to me. Riding a flat gravel road is quite different to scaling it on narrow tracks thru big rocks with traction on the downhill sections. This was a first for me, I found it easy to get up the hilll Gas To The Max but going down again was tough. The bike skidded the whole way down, but great, I made it. (Basically the bike was PARKED UP on the side on BIG ROCK downhill by JIM) and i was made to ride it or should i say skidddd it down the hill. The small XT perfect for me to be learning these skills. Your DR will be valuable - you will have legs on the open road sections to get to these interesting places and good choice for varying terrain also.

[suzieq]

Hi all !
Just bought my first adventure bike (DR 650 '90) and loving it !
I come from small engine, sport type bikes tho so I'll be keen to learn from riders with more experience and meet for rides.
Do you think my bike (older thumper, kind of heavy and slow but solid) would be suitable for the type of riding you guys do?
About me... I can ride but like to take it slow (on the road) and enjoy the NZ scenery, not much of a racer :laugh:

Cheers,
Andy.

(DR PERFECT) for being "OUT AMONGST THE ROCKS" FAVOURITE QUOTE FROM MY REPOROA FARMING FRIEND

[Shewolf]

good on ya, it can scare the stuffing out of you alright - keep at it


Riding a flat gravel road is quite different to scaling it on narrow tracks thru big rocks with traction on the downhill sections. This was a first for me, I found it easy to get up the hilll Gas To The Max but going down again was tough. The bike skidded the whole way down, but great, I made it.

[suzieq]

Thanks

Jim parked the XT up as I ws unsure I could do it AN iminent OFFF seemed to be the ONLY way down for me but I was made to ride it DOWN Jim told me to bring a CAN DO ATTITUDE WITH ME on this ride, so decided I HAD BEEN TOLD. It is always hard when someone who has many skills attempts to impart those skills to a new person, The trail that takes you up the Tukino ski field is hard packed pumice one moment and then turns to thick and deeep stuff the next minute. I was trying to put the gas on so to head out of the track in some form of decent time, but hit soft thick pumice and nearly ended up over the side of the track when i hit that at speed. Was tough. But then put the gas on again and it made it easier for the small bike to plough thru it. They also have big thick rock chunks embedded into the hard packed surface. Tough on tyres also. Going up one small part was strewn with the big rolling round stones hard going, Jim was actually surprised how far up I had made it??? Did not even stop to think about the downhill process. I could have ridden my big bike over 90% of this ride. Just a few more skills have been added to my 'skill bag' and to say I will do it alll again. Simply awsome, always looking for the next challenge. This was my first stream crossing also. I was also made to do this several times to make the most of the opportunity. Another lot of skills to learn. Following the LINE of the bike in front, yes I knew about that one, standing on the foot pegs was easier, but have been told can end up IN THE STREAM just as easy. Was excellent. We will be riding the wash outs from the MMMMM ride also next couple days and also 42nd traverse. I have more pics to post up of Tukino and looking down from the top. Have to make the most of the very kind XT250 whilst here on holidays. Then to transfer my new skills back to BIG bike. May be looking at the new SERTAO in the next couple months. With that 21" front wheel to cut thru it and also more suited for me (LEGS NEEDED) on open road sections. We travelled many km's of open roading to get to our ride and the XT actually only managed 180kms. Yes I was riding as fast as the boys (thats all I will say on that one) so she ran out and i had a car tooo close behind me so had to pulll off the highway to flick the RESERVE switch. Just made it back to Turangi to gas her up again. Those big hills on open road sections take it out of the small bike.