RRRR 2012 (24-25 March)

[bart]

RRRR 2012 (Round Ruahine Range Ride), 24-25 March

Date = March 24th and 25th NOTE NEW DATE

Start = Woodville 9am. :yawn:

Saturday = Ride the Makairo track, Towai, Bart Farm (depending on weather), Little Manuhara, Akitio, Herbertville, and follow the coast north. Will add as many 'interesting' sections as time allows.

Stay = TBC

Sunday = Gentle Annie (possibly a few side tracks), Taihape, south following close to the range, Takapari, Ashhurst, whatever.

Saturday will be semi-technical with huge variety. Sunday will be fast and flowing.

Distance = 700km ish

If we get good weather, there will be spectacular views. Bring a camera.

This will be a leisurely ride with many stops. 50% winding seal, 45% gravel, 5% difficult track, oh....and a wee bit of sand.

Plenty of options for the not so adventurous. :second:

Good fuel range will be required (200km +)

I'll sort out the calendar thingy soon.

Who's in? :scooter:

[marks]

sounds boring

not remotely interested ....

[bart]

sounds boring

not remotely interested ....

I forgot to mention, not for Generic Soft Cocks. :laugh:

[.chris]

I forgot to mention, not for Generic Soft Cocks. :laugh:

I am an entirely unique kind of softie, so I am keen.

[Eddieb]

I'll be a maybe.

[Box'a'bits]

Better than even chance I'll make it <_<

[bart]

I thought I'd give you guys plenty of notice this year.

Will work out accomodation once I get a rough idea of numbers.

[young1]

I thought I'd give you guys plenty of notice this year.

Will work out accomodation once I get a rough idea of numbers.

Big bikeable and pillions?

[nic]

I'm very keen on this one.

[gloves]

Count me in.

[GPS MAN]

Unless I "drop dead":violin: I'm in...

Depending on how many overnight? We could stay at my place again:yes:

[Night Falcon]

should have paid off the replacment mirror i broke on the last RRRR by then so count me in for "action packed Saturday" again :facepalm:

[Aslan]

subject to domestic calendar - read wider whanau commitments - I'd like to do this ride Bart - cheers for organising - S

[Shewolf]

One can never have enough dirty weekends :innocent:

[stormtrooper]

Hey Bart, count me in :2guns:

[bart]

Just found I may have to change dates. I may have a work conference on that weekend. Great timing eh, I find out the day after I post up the ride. Typical Bart organisation. :facepalm:

[bart]

Big bikeable and pillions?

The Makairo will be the only awkward bit. About 8km of fairly tight quad track. There's a surprising amount of traction, but big drops over the side if you get it all wrong.

There's a very nice road that loops around to the end of the track, so if concerned, this may be an option.

The rest of the ride should be OK for anyone half confident on gravel.

[gav24]

yup!
Dependant on new date, I'm in this time. Sorry to miss last years and glad to ride the gentle annie 'on gravel' the year before.
What was the name / location of the campsite with hot springs we never got to that time? The river wasnt THAT deep!
I'd like to head up there again over the summer and actually stay there this time.

[Steelie]

:yes: Possible starter.

[bart]

What was the name / location of the campsite with hot springs we never got to that time? The river wasnt THAT deep!
I'd like to head up there again over the summer and actually stay there this time.

I'd be keen on that. There's a few spots around there that I'd like to explore further. There might be a few too many softy's on the RRRR to do the hard core camping thing (eh Mark). :shifty:

[marks]

Big bikeable and pillions?

not for that fat arsed orange thing you ride - the panniers are wider than the track in the Makiro

and its a loooong way down if you get it wrong (unless you are a tree hugger like Struan)


There might be a few too many softy's on the RRRR to do the hard core camping thing (eh Mark). :shifty:

I'm deeply offended :shit:

I'm quite happy camping - as long as its indoors with a lecky blanket and flush toilet ..




oh and a nice hot shower




and a microwave





:love:

[Howie]

yup!
Dependant on new date, I'm in this time. Sorry to miss last years and glad to ride the gentle annie 'on gravel' the year before.
What was the name / location of the campsite with hot springs we never got to that time? The river wasnt THAT deep!
I'd like to head up there again over the summer and actually stay there this time.


The name you are after is the Mangatutu hot springs. I didn't make it along to the RRRR where some decided against crossing the river, But did cross there with bart earlier in the year. A good site for Hot springs in NZ is This one (http://www.nzhotpools.co.nz/regions/hawkes_bay) It also mentions one over Edwards pass off the Rainbow road.

[young1]

The first RRRR, we climbed up a cool track on the Western side of the Ruahines, at the top we had views out East. What was that track called?

[Box'a'bits]

The first RRRR, we climbed up a cool track on the Western side of the Ruahines, at the top we had views out East. What was that track called?
Takapari Rd. :Punk:

[Pampera]

[QUOTE=bart;
I'll sort out the calendar thingy soon.

Who's in? :scooter:[/QUOTE]

I too would probably be a starter, this date or your new date nearby.
Many thanks,
Michael

[bart]

The first RRRR, we climbed up a cool track on the Western side of the Ruahines, at the top we had views out East. What was that track called?

This place?

248973


We may have a look up there depending on time and weather on the Sunday.

[bart]

I too would probably be a starter, this date or your new date nearby.
Many thanks,
Michael

Ok, choice of 25/26 Feb or 24/25 Mar. I'm thinking the last date, as accomodation may be a shit late Feb because of the Mission concert.

[Pikey]

I'm keen :yes:

[young1]

Ok, choice of 25/26 Feb or 24/25 Mar. I'm thinking the last date, as accomodation may be a shit late Feb because of the Mission concert.

I forgot about the Mission Concert, if it is the Rod Stewart one that is where I will be.

March sounds good :-)

[socialites]

Ok, choice of 25/26 Feb or 24/25 Mar. I'm thinking the last date, as accomodation may be a *sh* late Feb because of the Mission concert.

I will be in for the March dates.

[Night Falcon]

I'm still keen for whatever dates so long as It dosn't clash with anual gardening to get brownie points for more riding time weekend:shifty:

[clint640]

Ok, choice of 25/26 Feb or 24/25 Mar. I'm thinking the last date, as accomodation may be a shit late Feb because of the Mission concert.

Late Mar would be good! Was thinking we would miss out as we will likely still be in the Sth Island 10-11/3. There's lotsa tracks on this ride I haven't done so real keen to get down for it.

Cheers
Clint

[bart]

Bump......

I'd better get this thing sorted. More details to come.

Weekend 24th-25th March confirmed.

[Beem02]

Weekend 24th-25th March confirmed.
Count me in - also keen for camping if that ends up being the plan.

[GPS MAN]

Put me down...maybe you should have a "sign-up" page?

Also, I will get to talking/begging about those tracks I told you about up this way..

:niceone:

[Rosie]

Bump......

I'd better get this thing sorted. More details to come.

Weekend 24th-25th March confirmed.

We will be there :niceone:

[socialites]

[QUOTE=bart;1130177303]RRRR 2012 (Round Ruahine Range Ride), 24-25 March

Date = March 24th and 25th NOTE NEW DATE

Such a pity its on the same weekend of the annual "OFF LIMITS Dirt Bike ride, TUSSOCK BUSTER" , as I would have loved to attend this one.

[socialites]

I will be in for the March dates.

Damn TUSSOCK BUSTER dates have just been released, and would you know it, it clashes...story of my life..

[nic]

Count me in - also keen for camping if that ends up being the plan.

I'll be there too :) - and will make every effort to avoid camping, if that ends up being the plan.

[manakau.KTM]

Count me in as well

[.chris]

I am keen, I plan to take the week before off work and head down and enjoy some of what the lower north island has to offer.

Camping, yes definitely.

[Aslan]

watching with interest Bart - keen subject to collar bone recovery (also can't afford to bust me again straight away since I fly out to Aust to visit my wife the following week) - cheers S

[MXNUT]

Damn TUSSOCK BUSTER dates have just been released, and would you know it, it clashes...story of my life..

Yep same problem for me. Tussock Buster is sooooo good that it is a must do ride, but i really wanted to do this ride also.

Will make the decision which way to go in a few weeks

[Howie]

I too am watching with interest, but suspect I won't quite be ready, will only be a couple of weeks out of the cast on my leg.

[pomgolian]

Sounds like a good plan count me in

Paul

[bart]

Awesome

Calendar thing here. Please sign up so I have a rough idea of numbers.
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=2975&day=2012-3-24

Because of heaps of interest, we'll stay in Napier at the Westshore. They have plenty of cabins available (food and a pub across the road).

Westshore Holiday Park Napier (0800 937 874 or 06 835 9456)
http://www.westshoreholidaypark.co.nz/

Hard barstards are welcome to go through to the hot springs and camp, but add an extra hour to the Saturday ride.

[Night Falcon]

Drat....I'm taking my bride on vacation to puket that weekend for her birthday. Bart is it possible to post up some directions/route? Would like to do it the previous weekend, I can clear a track for yous fullas :shifty:

[bart]

Drat....I'm taking my bride on vacation to puket that weekend for her birthday. Bart is it possible to post up some directions/route? Would like to do it the previous weekend, I can clear a track for yous fullas :shifty:

Do you mean Phuket? I didn't think that was a place to take the missus. That's a bit like taking the bank manager to Los Vegas....

I haven't sorted the route exactly yet. Some may be over private property. Feel free to check out the Makairo for us though. Take a pruning saw and a shovel just in case. :niceone:

[pomgolian]

Hi Bart keen to stay at the hot springs camping as Napier is just down the road from home and the ride to the hot springs is cool, subject to time of finishing the 1st day, weather, time of start day 2 and if any other hard nuts willing ? Chris, Rosie & Clint promise to bring some food this time rather than stupidly relying on my poor fishing skills.

Paul

[Steelie]

Westshore Holiday Park looks just right for me. Can camp if I have to, but the less shit I have to bring the better.

Looking forward to it.

Anthony

[GPS MAN]

Hey Bart - Got access from one of the farmers...cool ride though his farm...should enjoy it! :niceone: Waiting to hear back from the other...

Will keep you posted...

[Rosie]

Hi Bart keen to stay at the hot springs camping as Napier is just down the road from home and the ride to the hot springs is cool, subject to time of finishing the 1st day, weather, time of start day 2 and if any other hard nuts willing ? Chris, Rosie & Clint promise to bring some food this time rather than stupidly relying on my poor fishing skills.

Paul

I'll talk to Clint, but I imagine we'll be sociable and stay in Napier :beer:
However, I do have the beginnings of a plan for a ride to Mangatutu hot springs in April - maybe the weekend after easter.

[Woodman]

Hmmmm, may work on this one myself as i haven't been up to see the folks in Taradale for a couple of years so could work in quite well..

Will keep you in the loop.

Do we need knobblys? am over knobblys:weird:

[bart]

Hey Bart - Got access from one of the farmers...cool ride though his farm...should enjoy it! :niceone: Waiting to hear back from the other...

Will keep you posted...

Good stuff.


Hmmmm, may work on this one myself as i haven't been up to see the folks in Taradale for a couple of years so could work in quite well..

Will keep you in the loop.

Do we need knobblys? am over knobblys:weird:

Be nice to have a few mainlanders along.

We have been known to run a 'bald tyre challenge'. Traction shouldn't be too much of a problem. The Makairo can be interesting in the wet, but it's rock base, so not too bad.

[Hillbilly110]

Me n' Rangi might be in....tussock buster is a draw as well so will decide soon.

[Hillbilly110]

Yep same problem for me. Tussock Buster is sooooo good that it is a must do ride, but i really wanted to do this ride also.

Will make the decision which way to go in a few weeks

Hey Mark, Have you got any bikes that'll go long enough to do either?

[gloves]

Hi Bart.
Am in .Hows the new house and Baby?

[GPS MAN]

Well, another farmer has given his permission to ride his place...just waiting on one more:yes:

[fridayflash]

ill come along bart..be good to see this makairo etc etc
may only do the 1st day as home is napier and your 2nd day will basically
be a reversal of our last ride
but ill see how i go

will attempt to drag paulo along too
ankle appears fully heeled (naff pun eh)

[bart]

Hi Bart.
Am in .Hows the new house and Baby?

Keeping me broke, and um....keeping me broke and tired


Well, another farmer has given his permission to ride his place...just waiting on one more:yes:

Awesome. At this rate I won't have to organise anything.


ill come along bart..be good to see this makairo etc etc
may only do the 1st day as home is napier and your 2nd day will basically
be a reversal of our last ride
but ill see how i go

will attempt to drag paulo along too
ankle appears fully heeled (naff pun eh)

Good stuff. Are you bringing the DR, or are you going to cheat with that XR.

[fridayflash]

i think ill bring the dr and give it a good dose hehe
if paul comes he can ride the red sixfiddy
at two bucks and fifteens cents (or whateva we pay now)
per litre ill be glad to ride the more frugal of the two

will chat to El presidente (tw) lol and xrjohnny
and see if theyre keen!

[MXNUT]

Hey Mark, Have you got any bikes that'll go long enough to do either?

Ouch, that hurts :spanking:

Nothing wrong with the Husky, havent killed that one yet.

Just the Zuki`s that keep on dying.

[GPS MAN]

Hey Mark - has the 630 arrived??? Would like to see some pics:blah:

[MXNUT]

Hey Mark - has the 630 arrived??? Would like to see some pics:blah:

Waiting ... waiting ...waiting :angry: :angry: :angry:











Could be any f..king year now

[Hillbilly110]

If you bought a new zuke and nursed it you might last till the Husky arrives!:sick:

[GPS MAN]

Hey Bart. >>>>Got permission from the last farmer:sweatdrop...looks like we are all go on this end...:Punk:

I'll ride it sometime over the next couple of days and let you know the mileage..:yes:

[Night Falcon]

I'm free for an explore tomorra if ya looking for an accomplis ?

[Bams]

Thinking of doing this ride do you think if it is dryish around the time would "adventure road like" tires be up to it the tracks that have been mentioned ( I don,t really want to change tires yet)

[bart]

Hey Bart. >>>>Got permission from the last farmer:sweatdrop...looks like we are all go on this end...:Punk:

I'll ride it sometime over the next couple of days and let you know the mileage..:yes:

Too much dude. i'd better start working on some other bits....:shutup:


Thinking of doing this ride do you think if it is dryish around the time would "adventure road like" tires be up to it the tracks that have been mentioned ( I don,t really want to change tires yet)

Shit tyres will be fine. It just depends how often you want to stay upright....:innocent:





just kidding. I'm planning on wearing something pretty close to slick.

[GPS MAN]

That could be a go...I'll see how the day goes and let you know.......that would be meeting at my house in Otane..fyi...:yes:

Wade

[Night Falcon]

That could be a go...I'll see how the day goes and let you know.......that would be meeting at my house in Otane..fyi...:yes:

Wade

no worries i'm in havelock so not far I'll pm me mobile if ya wanna send a txt

[Night Falcon]

Cool ride Wade thanks for the tour :sunny:

Photos:
1 the 530, sweet
2 The veiws
3 the D2 mortuary
4 more veiws
5 tom foolery
6 views just before the steep grassy decent

[GPS MAN]

Hey Marty...enjoyed the ride and company...should make a Great addition to the RRRR;)

[bart]

Awesome. I can't wait to see those Cat D2's. My old man's got a real old one. I couldn't believe when we fired it up a few years ago. It'd been sitting for 25 years, and cranked up on the deisel in the tank. Apparently those old pre-war engines could run on just about anything.

[Night Falcon]

Awesome. I can't wait to see those Cat D2's. My old man's got a real old one. I couldn't believe when we fired it up a few years ago. It'd been sitting for 25 years, and cranked up on the deisel in the tank. Apparently those old pre-war engines could run on just about anything.

They are cool alright, they must have seen some action in their day :corn:

[fridayflash]

cool old cats eh

has anybody seen the old bulldozers down ngawi way? ive been meaning to go down there
for a browse

[tri boy]

Waiting ... waiting ...waiting :angry: :angry: :angry:


Couldn'tresist popping in to have a look at your new beastie today.

DROOOOOL
Slobber
Throb
:drool::drool::drool::love::love::love::blah:

[dino3310]

It sounded wicked too mate

[GPS MAN]

Pics! Pics!:(

[bart]

Right, talking with the GPS MAN yesterday, and reasonable tyres might be the go. No bald tyre challenge this year. Anything with a bit of nob should be fine, but if running trailwings etc, you may have to skip the interesting bits.

GPS MAN has sorted out some real interesting stuff for Saturday afternoon. Thanks man. This should be good. :niceone:

[.chris]

Right, talking with the GPS MAN yesterday, and reasonable tyres might be the go. No bald tyre challenge this year. Anything with a bit of nob should be fine, but if running trailwings etc, you may have to skip the interesting bits.

GPS MAN has sorted out some real interesting stuff for Saturday afternoon. Thanks man. This should be good. :niceone:


Is a pretty well worn E-07 going to be ok? I sure hope so....

[bart]

Is a pretty well worn E-07 going to be ok? I sure hope so....

You'll be right. Just roady type tyres and grass (especially when wet) don't mix. There may be a couple of steep ups and downs.

[nic]

6 views just before the steep grassy decent


You'll be right. Just roady type tyres and grass (especially when wet) don't mix. There may be a couple of steep ups and downs.


Okay - "steep" has cropped up twice now :sweatdrop...... but that wont put me off .

I will stick with my T63's - as there is still some life left in them.....but what oil should I run? :scratch:

looking forward to this ride :)

[Woodman]

The stars haven't aligned wth my ducks in a row so i won't be there:brick: Sounds like a good ride too.:weep:

[bart]

The stars haven't aligned wth my ducks in a row so i won't be there:brick: Sounds like a good ride too.:weep:

That's a shame Wooders. This is shaping up to be a good one.

[Woodman]

That's a shame Wooders. This is shaping up to be a good one.

Not helping.

[BMWST?]

cool old cats eh

has anybody seen the old bulldozers down ngawi way? ive been meaning to go down there
for a browse

on the beach you mean?Its cool watchin them launch and retreive the fishing boats

[bart]

Access sorted for Akitio station. :woohoo:

[GSers]

Guys whats the weather been like on the East Coast? I want to come on the ride but havn't got a knobly on the back at the moment.
GSers

[bart]

Guys whats the weather been like on the East Coast? I want to come on the ride but havn't got a knobly on the back at the moment.
GSers

We've had a hell of a lot more rain than sun. What summer?

You'll be right. Any difficult sections are easily bypassed, but you should be able to do 90% of the Saturday and all of Sunday. The only issues will be the Makairo (which I've been through on road tyres in the wet), Bart farm (any hint of rain and we'll miss this anyway), and whatever surprise GPSMAN has for us late Sat afternoon.

The Akitio station track is better then most gravel roads (a little care may be needed through the forestry section if wet), but gives awesome views along the coast, and means we don't have to go miles inland to loop around to Herbertville.

[DR Girl]

Hi Bart, may be able to join you for Sat, the ride sounds great. Thoroughly enjoyed it last year.:wari:
I'm mean't to be at a girlie weekend at the beach, but I'm sure they will manage without me & maybe save me a glass of wine or two.:laugh:
How many do you have going so far ?

[bart]

Hi Bart, may be able to join you for Sat, the ride sounds great. Thoroughly enjoyed it last year.:wari:
I'm mean't to be at a girlie weekend at the beach, but I'm sure they will manage without me & maybe save me a glass of wine or two.:laugh:
How many do you have going so far ?

Well it won't be very girly, but we will see some beach. Calendar has 11 so far, plus a few others stringing along, we should have almost 20. Some excelent 'extra' bits this year.

Anyone booked a cabin yet?

[Howie]

I'm out for this ride now, Just went for my first ride since getting the cast off my leg, and although not too bad, don't think I'm up to riding for two days yet. Have fun everyone.

[bart]

I've sorta got access to another station, but this will be dependant on the weather this week. The track can be nasty if wet, so it'll be a last minute call.

Everything else seems to be falling into place. :woohoo::woohoo:

[Night Falcon]

I've sorta got access to another station, but this will be dependant on the weather this week. The track can be nasty if wet, so it'll be a last minute call.

Everything else seems to be falling into place. :woohoo::woohoo:

Am slacked off to miss this ride, its gonna be a cracker, still I'll have 2weeks in poooket to get over it :blip: I'll be taking my lappie so will be looking forward to a good Ride report and accompanying photo shoot to pass the time away :yes:

[Steelie]

Im out. Looks to be a good ride. Hope the weather is kind to access those tricky bits.....

[Waihou Thumper]

I am in Bart, looks like I will travel down friday evening, stay somewhere in the van and then be ready for the Saturday morning ride...
I would ride down, however, too far to make it either Fri or sat morning....Getting up at 3am ain't much fun :) A quiet spot somewhere off the main drag, park up the pimp mobile and get a good nights sleep.

[bart]

I am in Bart, looks like I will travel down friday evening, stay somewhere in the van and then be ready for the Saturday morning ride...
I would ride down, however, too far to make it either Fri or sat morning....Getting up at 3am ain't much fun :) A quiet spot somewhere off the main drag, park up the pimp mobile and get a good nights sleep.

I'll PM my details. I'm sure you can crash here in Dannevegas.

Weather's going to be interesting. I reackon we'll sneak through without getting too wet. :whistle:

[GPS MAN]

Things look pretty good for the Sat ride!

260218

[Tug Boat]

Hi Bart
I will have one extra rider and only be doing the Saturday ride . We are going to do Napier to Palmy tomorrow via Gentle Annie .
What are the good gravel roads to look out for in that direction for our Friday ride.

[clint640]

We're still on track to make the ride, been bikeless for a few weeks so looking forward to some riding.:woohoo: We are booked in at the camp tomorrow & Sat nights, will ride down to the start Sat morning. Whereabouts in the metropolis of Woodville are we meeting up?

Cheers
Clint

[DR Girl]

Am slacked off to miss this ride, its gonna be a cracker, still I'll have 2weeks in poooket to get over it :blip: I'll be taking my lappie so will be looking forward to a good Ride report and accompanying photo shoot to pass the time away :yes:

Have a good one Marty :bye:
Relax :zzzz:, enjoy :drinkup: & have fun :woohoo:

[Waihou Thumper]

Things look pretty good for the Sat ride!

260218


actually it looks ratshit now....:gob:BUT Sunday is looking pretty good....:)

260224

[bart]

My home internet is down, so I'll be out of touch tonight. Naughty me doing this from work. I can be contacted on 027 xxx xxxx.


Hi Bart
I will have one extra rider and only be doing the Saturday ride . We are going to do Napier to Palmy tomorrow via Gentle Annie .
What are the good gravel roads to look out for in that direction for our Friday ride.


Keep close to the range. Good gravel there. Have a poke around up Takapari Road. That's awesome when the weathers nice. It's off Pohangina East road. Follow the farm tracks up into the bush.


We're still on track to make the ride, been bikeless for a few weeks so looking forward to some riding.:woohoo: We are booked in at the camp tomorrow & Sat nights, will ride down to the start Sat morning. Whereabouts in the metropolis of Woodville are we meeting up?

Cheers
Clint

There's a heap of us leaving from my place about 8-30am. I'll PM the details.

Otherwise, Caltex Woodville 9am, or the start of the Makairo track at 9-30am. Please be gassed up and ready to go.

[GPS MAN]

260228

Sunday morning doesn't look too sporty:eek5:

[Box'a'bits]

Just called Westshore. Doesn't sound like we've had a rush on cabins.

Does anyone want to bunk in with me? 2 bed cabin is $58/night, so $29/night. Send me a PM. No over-achievers in the snoring dept please

[Waihou Thumper]

Just called Westshore. Doesn't sound like we've had a rush on cabins.

Does anyone want to bunk in with me? 2 bed cabin is $58/night, so $29/night. Send me a PM. No over-achievers in the snoring dept please


Yep, that will be fine with me...Was taking a tent but for the extra $10, can leave it at home. Ok, Steve?
Cheers....

[Box'a'bits]

Yep, that will be fine with me...Was taking a tent but for the extra $10, can leave it at home. Ok, Steve?
Cheers....

Sounds good to me. :yes:

[bart]

OK, turns out I've got internet. Just the home phone is out.

Me and a mate have booked a 3 man cabin and have a spare bed if anyone interested. I don't snore....much....:shutup:....well....not when I'm awake....

[.chris]

OK, turns out I've got internet. Just the home phone is out.

Me and a mate have booked a 3 man cabin and have a spare bed if anyone interested. I don't snore....much....:shutup:....well....not when I'm awake....

Can I grab that bed please?
Pretty sure I have had enough tenting in the rain.

[bart]

Can I grab that bed please?
Pretty sure I have had enough tenting in the rain.

No problem dude

[GPS MAN]

260246


Might I suggest a late start on Sunday?:brick:

[bart]

260246


Might I suggest a late start on Sunday?:brick:

It'll be fine. Doesn't pink mean 1 mm of rain every 6 hours. I'm sure we can handle that. Should fine up as the day goes on.

[Night Falcon]

everyone knows it never rains in the bay so you'll be fine...still jealous I'm not goin :cry:

[Waihou Thumper]

Van is all packed, ready to roll at 3am in the morning....Had a busy driving day, so will have a beer or two and then get up at sparrows....:yawn:I got to use this van, it is a beauty! Was cheap and have carpeted the inside. Is is the ADV van, tow wagon for brake downs.....etc.
260279 260280 260281
Carpeted inside, door handles anchored in the floor for the bikes Best thing about this old ambulance is it is a passenger vehicle, seats and wheelchair hoist.....Can't you see them? Cheap rego, approx $285 per year....Of course they all go back when I take it for a WOF :)

[clint640]

We are currently inspectiing the accomodation. Not a bad choice, fridges in the cabins to keep the beer cold & a pub directly across the road, plus it's 10deg warmer than Nelson :rockon: See y'all in the mornin.

Cheers
Clint

[nic]

What an excellent weekend! - Thanks Bart :hug: and Wade :hug:

Great mix of terrain, some amazing views and, as always, excellent company.

After Taihape .chris led us through to Waioru via some nice gravel, then I headed home via Taupo racetrack to catch a couple of races.

:)

[GSers]

What can I say, home sore and knackered what a great weekend. Thanks to all who helped with the organising and Bart / GPS MAN great ride. Thanks to those who helped pick me up :facepalm: and stop me falling off the side of Makiro Track. :shit: Looking forward to the next one. Great to catch up with all the old faces and to meet the new ones. GSers

[GPS MAN]

Great weekend....Great People and a Great Ride:yes:

Looking forward to many, many more!

[Waipukbiker]

Just there for the Saturday but had an awesome day with an awesome bunch of people, Thanks Bart and Wade for the work you put in to set this weekend up. Thanks DRGirl for picking up after me after my carrier and bin decided to part company from my lil ole kwaka:facepalm: And also thanks guys for the cable ties and for carrying my fuel container to Waipawa, sorry cant remember your names.

Cheers
Ross

[.chris]

Great ride, I feel a little bad I did not make a complete round the ranges, but got close enough.

Got home about 10:30pm, so made for a pretty even 14hrs on the bike.

Had a slight problem with a tire about 6pm, took a while to sort out when I realised I had no pump (doh!). But some locals had a lovely compressor to save the day.

[bart]

Cheers guys (and girls), I'm glad everyone enjoyed it. There didn't appear to be too much drama....other than a couple of people going missing....:facepalm:

I've got a heap of photos to sort through. It might take a couple of days, so please keep checking back.

I had a blast and I'm already working on the route for next year. :shutup:

Cheers,
Bart

[DR Girl]

What a great Saturday was. :woohoo: Thank you again Bart for an awesome, well organised ride.:Punk: Thanks Wade. :Punk:
Loved the varied terrain & the views from the track on Akitio & Tautane Station.
Tautane was a great surprise for me & somewhere I've always wanted to visit. Frank Herrick & his wife were the last family members to live in the original homestead on Tautane Station before it burnt down. They moved to Havelock Nth to retire in the 30's ? right to the house we live in now. We have on our property a rough sawn whare (that we use as a sleep out) that Frank brought with him from 'Tautane'.
So nice to see familiar faces & meet some new ones. Great riding with you Rosie & Nic. Got to say Gerrard. . . Makairo Track again with that huge beast of a bike of yours. A brill effort.:Punk::Punk::Punk:
Thanks pomolian for following behind me in that thick fog when you noticed I had no rear end lighting at all !!! I have removed tail end bracket with LEDs & have left it with our electrician, hoping wrenched wire/wires in that section not the main body. :cry:

[Waihou Thumper]

I too had a great time! Lots of photos to sort through and will post as soon as I can. What can you say? Saturday had it all, falls, water, mud and great scenery :)
Akitio was the highlight for me, always wanted to ride through both stations.
Bart, your beer is a bloody legend mate. I am glad I left when I did.
Thanks all for organising this and..... Wade, your skills on the KLR are legendary! :yes: BUT on the KTM 530, bloody good...:)

[Box'a'bits]

The weather for this ride wasn’t looking too flash.

Up at 6.00am to leave by 7.00am. Unfortunately when I bravely peered out the window, it was already raining. The Metservice real-time data indicated it was raining at Paraparaumu & Palmerston North. Fortunately it appeared dry in Masterton, but it meant I needed to ride the Rimutakas (what a chore)…but that way is also slightly longer time wise.

By Pahiatua it was obvious I was late (it was already 9.00am), but I figured I had enough gas, & I thought I’d meet the guys coming towards me if they left on time. That wasn’t to be. Got to the Woodville meeting place to be told 5or 6 bikes left 5 or so minutes ago.

Okay the other meet point was the Makairo track itself. Should I ride thru or go around & meet them on the other side. What to do.

Gerard was waiting at the Mangatainoka turnoff on his R1100GS hybrid (I think he’d been looking at the rally cars that were using the compound for scrutineering for a Whariti Rd hill climb). Together we set off towards Makairo, noting no sign of bike passing in then gravel roads. Then, not far from Makairo, lot of sign. Okay, guess they came in a different way.

Bart & five of six others were waiting at the entrance. He noted more riders were expected from Dannevegas.

The group (when it finally assembled) consisted of: Me - Box’a’bits (R100GS); Bart (DR650); Waihou Thumper (Husky 610); DR Girl (Dr200); Nic (XT225); Chris (KTM 690); Hugh (DR650); GPS Man (KLR650); GSers (R1100GS); Clint 640 (KTM 640); Rosie (WR250R); Waipukbiker (KL250); Pomgolian; and a couple of others who I didn’t really get an opportunity to catch up with.

Makairo Track is a disused road, which has reverted into single track. It runs through bush, & up along a ridge line, to an open summit, and then a descent into a quarry. It is infrequently maintained, & is now mainly used by hunters & mountain bike clubs. I don’t think that you could get a 4WD through it now, given its overgrown nature & steep drop offs on the right side of the track.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2msqVeRejiQ/T3AVDAw0CSI/AAAAAAAALGM/CcOvvnKY2-c/s640/DSCF2154.JPG https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lW09ZM_O30U/T3AVEPXuNJI/AAAAAAAALGQ/Y8B3lOOFrXw/s800/DSCF2155.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PZf6AmQJ8h4/T3AVFCmvyWI/AAAAAAAALGY/nCWpHTo87MA/s800/DSCF2156.JPG

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M97GvSuzlzo/T3AVGQudKiI/AAAAAAAALGk/XVWFk18SCkk/s800/DSCF2157.JPG

I grabbed a handful of stinging nettle at one point when I jumped off to help Nic. She graciously allowed me to photograph the moment. Gerard cross rutted fairly early on, with inevitable consequences. Later he dropped a wheel off one bank, which we needed to lift back up. Gus beached both jugs on the downhill section in one of the ruts. It definitely proved a workout, & I was fairly tired by the end of the track.

Bart took the group over Towai Range, & down to Little Manuhara Rd, another disused road, now likely used as a stock route. This starts promisingly with hard packed limestone, but deteriorates as it climbs into Macrocarpa trees (ruts & roots) & a bit of slick mud. It was my turn to cross rut in there – I landed hard on my back & was later surprised my camera (carried in my camelback) survived the impact.

Lunch stop at Pongoroa, at the general store. I overheard several comments surprised at how few kms we had traveled compared to the felt work rate.

After replenishing reserves, we headed down Coast Rd to Akitio. Bart had organized access across Akitio Station & also across another Station whose name escapes me. This was generally wide well formed tracks, paralleling the ocean. There was one stream ford there, which had obviously seen some water thru it. The ford was concrete, but the stream had been up on one bank, creating a silty bog. No real issues once you were on the ford though, & no one took advantage of the number of cameras pointed at them to fall off.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hsjAwvzrp0I/T3AVIqhRd4I/AAAAAAAALG0/SEPCvq9oBdQ/s800/DSCF2159.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eQWtAUnh3s4/T3AVJ334k8I/AAAAAAAALG4/PFwuVnQPg08/s800/DSCF2160.JPG

At the Tautane Station we had a moment with a station horse, who decided to play race the bikes. Clint attempted to overtake on the grass, only to find a culvert. Whilst he made the jump over that, he dumped the bike turning back onto the track.

Bart decided that discretion was the better part of valor when the horse decided to run straight at him to get thru a gateway. I hope there wasn’t any issues with the station when they discovered their horse a few miles (and paddocks) away.

About then we discovered 2 of our party were missing. Wade went back for them, but they had disappeared. It seems that when we made a right turn to go to Akitio station, they went straight ahead. I guess the lesson is to make sure tail end Charlie is fully aware of the route. Fortunately we caught Nic again at the Porangahau Hotel (she was probably just thirsty). Hugh eventually turned up after dark at Napier, having done a bigger tour than he’d anticipated....

Bart had been concerned about a climb out of the Tautane Station. This had been pugged fairly recently, but dry, & was fun with reasonably good suspension.

Having left the station we moved on to Blackhead, & rode the beach over the slip (which now had a track across it) to Pourerere. We were much later than expected, but fortunately the tide hadn’t come up too far. I really enjoyed this section on Gus.

Followed Pourerere Rd back to Waipawa for gas, riding straight into the weather front which had been traveling along the hills. Still only light rain. At Waipawa a few decided to exit for Home. The balance went inland to Range Rd, then Argyll Rd, only to the turned back at Rauakwa Rd when we came across an accident (fatality). Back Te Onepu Rd to SH2, to Westshore Holiday Park, Napier to overnight.

[Box'a'bits]

Up earlyish Sunday to do some maintenance on Gus. Beautiful day.

Left Clint & Rosie at the camp – they decided to leg it home.

The return leg consisted of me, Bart, Wade, Chris, Waihou Thumper, Nic, & GSer.

Breakfast at Meadowdale New World, just so that Bart could dump his gear on his mum.

Over the Gentle Annie, all sealed now, but riding into wind & light drizzle. It got quite cool up there to. My riding there wasn’t the best then – just didn’t have my head I the right space. We didn't do the Comet Hut side loop - too wet.

Turned off at Matawhero Station. Brilliant, flowing, open & damp gravel road (no dust).

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0xAsJlaOQRQ/T3AVMHFtl0I/AAAAAAAALHM/xpZAA0q-DgA/s800/DSCF2162.JPG

Lunch at Taihape at the Soul Food Café. Try their Steak Burger. Yummmy...

We lost Nic & Chris there, as they went North.

Then Toe Toe Rd at the bottom of the Mangaweka Deviation, Kawhatau Valley Rd, Auputa Rd, & through to Apiti, where we sat in the pub to wait for a rain cell to move across. We cleared out before 90 odd police & search & rescue people descended on us. By mutual consent, we decided to forgo Takapari Rd. It would have been miserable up there. Makoura Rd, Pohangina Rd West & on to Ashurst where the group fragmented again.

GSer & I went around the back of Palmerston North, Then I headed for Wellington. Home 5.00 ish.

Cool weekend Bart. Thanks for organizing it.

950kms over the weekend

Took the day off today to recover.

[bart]

Cheers for doing the write up man. Saved me a big job.

Oh, and I dumped the gear on the Mother 'Inlaw', who has kindly washed my stinky socks. :2thumbsup

[Aslan]

looks like you all had a great time - sorry to miss it - nice write up and pics Box a Bits :)

[Waipukbiker]

Firstly thanks for the great write up and the neat pics.

On a sad note now, the fatality on Raukawa rd was a fellow biker. He was David Fair, a member of the Hawkes Bay Classic Motorcycle club. Apparently it was a head on with a vehicle. Our thoughts are with his family.

[Tug Boat]

Thanks Bart & Wade (GPS man)
Awesome ride the varied terrain was a good mix for a lot of fun.
Makairo Track was well worth the sweat and entertainment.
Akito Station section fantastic.
Good write up Box a bits.
What road names did that nice clay/pine needle track go between just be fore Pongaroa ?

Cheers Tug Boat ( xt660r )

[Box'a'bits]

What road names did that nice clay/pine needle track go between just be fore Pongaroa ?
Little Manuhara Rd, off Manuhara Rd.

[DR Girl]

Firstly thanks for the great write up and the neat pics.

On a sad note now, the fatality on Raukawa rd was a fellow biker. He was David Fair, a member of the Hawkes Bay Classic Motorcycle club. Apparently it was a head on with a vehicle. Our thoughts are with his family.

Yes, to read about it in Monday's paper was very sobering & so terribly sad.
Could have been any one of us.
His family must be devastated.

[bart]

On the way to the Makairo

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[bart]

more.............

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[bart]

In the Makairo

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[bart]

More.....

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[pomgolian]

Thanks Bart for organising everthing, the beach section was cool, shame i missed Sunday (home duties), it was a long week after wet windy Cape Paliser with Chris earlier in the week, hope he had Monday off !!!

Paul

[bart]

more.....

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[bart]

more....

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[bart]

A few portrates

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[bart]

Yep, and more...

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[GPS MAN]

Great Pics:yes:

[.chris]

Great pics as usual bart, can I please grab some full res copies of the ones with me in em (which are easily the best photos ever :confused:)

[bart]

Akitio....

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[DR Girl]

Yep :woohoo::Punk::wings: Them sure are great pics Bart. Thanks.

[bart]

Plenty more to come

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[bart]

...................

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[.chris]

A couple of photos worthy of a upload that I did not include in my ADVR ride report (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?p=18302332#post18302332)


https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9wbgKMKmu-o/T2--C11Z2PI/AAAAAAAALX4/v4hjIng7cPA/s640/IMG_7896.JPG (https://picasaweb.google.com/data/media/api/user/110463954319256360507/albumid/5723930022014828945/photoid/5724002607431276786)
Bart taking Photos up the Makiro Track.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gTV9Oy62DiI/T3GLcYDpHZI/AAAAAAAALa0/m46UP_B-WRY/s640/IMG_7934.JPG (https://picasaweb.google.com/data/media/api/user/110463954319256360507/albumid/5723930022014828945/photoid/5724509920974937490)
DRGirl doing her DR200 proud.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XPZOfqhat40/T3GLqrV6JFI/AAAAAAAALa4/j2vqpSQhTbA/s640/IMG_7921.JPG (https://picasaweb.google.com/data/media/api/user/110463954319256360507/albumid/5723930022014828945/photoid/5724510166669993042)
Mark crossing.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vBN0oB0wJik/T3GM_l3ZZcI/AAAAAAAALa8/C8H3fLTmYNk/s640/IMG_7889.JPG (https://picasaweb.google.com/data/media/api/user/110463954319256360507/albumid/5723930022014828945/photoid/5724511625488721346)
Rosie on the Maikaro track.

[Waihou Thumper]

Nice photos guys, Chris, Bart....I am uploading mine as I type, there will be a few there but a bit disappointing with the outcome. Mind you, I was too busy riding, picking the bike up, looking at scenery etc to be a photographer....:) Stunning weekend!

[bart]

Beach.....

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[bart]

Beach.....

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[Waihou Thumper]

Some photographs I took of last weekends ride.....

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[Waihou Thumper]

More...

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[Waihou Thumper]

More...

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[bart]

Sunday...

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[bart]

Almost the last of them

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[bart]

The survivors

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Thanks everyone for coming along. Awesome weekend.

I'm already planning the route for next year. It may be a bit more inland, but if it pans out, will be even more spectacular.

Large versions of these photos (and many more) will be available over the next day or so. Follow the link in my signature. Go to RRRR 2012. Or click link below.

https://skydrive.live.com/redir.aspx?cid=41f768dbf8a6f0ce&resid=41F768DBF8A6F0CE!1437&parid=root

Right click the photo and go 'view original' to get 1600 x 1067 version.

Cheers,
Bart

[GPS MAN]

Great Pics again, Bart!

You really missed your calling:facepalm:

[GSers]

Great photos guys. Thanks for sharing. GSers

[Rosie]

We've finally got around to sorting out our photos from Saturdays ride...

[Rosie]

Part two...

[Rosie]

And part three...

[GPS MAN]

Great Pics ~ Rosie;)

[Rosie]

Great Pics ~ Rosie;)

Thanks. Most of them are Clint's, but I'm sure he won't mind if I take the credit for them :innocent:

[DR Girl]

Take the credit girl, they are good photos ! :yes: