Auckland: L's Angels Ride to the Naki (Feb 9/10) 2013 [Archive] - Page 2

bluninja

6th February 2013, 07:21

GPS us to the Belt Rd Camp then you can leave. :shifty:
Na should be all good, its by the beach somewhere eh?:laugh:
Te Kuiti for Lunch?

GPS? yeah you need that to find your way round New Plymouth it's so big :) Just don't listen to me for directions...I get lost on my way to the toilet at night. Just head down to the seafront as you come into New Plymouth (Molesworth Street) follow all the way through the centre of NP (becomes St Aubyns) and out. There's a bright red building the junction before Belt road and Haren Dekeb (or something like that) car sales on the left as you need to turn right into Belt road.....actually GPS is probably better...will send you through the one way past Mach 1 Yamaha and New Plymouth Motorcycles.

Maha

6th February 2013, 07:29

GPS? yeah you need that to find your way round New Plymouth it's so big :) Just don't listen to me for directions...I get lost on my way to the toilet at night. Just head down to the seafront as you come into New Plymouth (Molesworth Street) follow all the way through the centre of NP (becomes St Aubyns) and out. There's a bright red building the junction before Belt road and Haren Dekeb (or something like that) car sales on the left as you need to turn right into Belt road.....actually GPS is probably better...will send you through the one way past Mach 1 Yamaha and New Plymouth Motorcycles.

The one way system concerned me :laugh:
Will be sweet as. GPS has lead us astray in the past so would rather not rely on such technology. Probably not so bad for town use though.
Local knowledge is more usefull.

bluninja

6th February 2013, 07:51

The one way system concerned me :laugh:
Will be sweet as. GPS has lead us astray in the past so would rather not rely on such technology. Probably not so bad for town use though.
Local knowledge is more usefull.

I was just thinking of getting a group of bikes through with the least number of course changes and give ways....so a right turn at Elliot Street, left turn atMolesworth...straight along through various traffic lights until right turn for Belt Road. From where you are staying it's just a short trip to Paritutu Rock if anyone wants to give their body a workout to prepare for the pizza fest and have a great viewpoint.

Gremlin

6th February 2013, 09:28

GPS us to the Belt Rd Camp then you can leave. :shifty:
...
Te Kuiti for Lunch?
Depends when I leave, as to when I catch up... not sure when I'm leaving just yet, but the aim would certainly be to catch up before New Plymouth :laugh:

GPS has lead us astray in the past so would rather not rely on such technology.
woteva <_<

haydes55

6th February 2013, 19:00

Maha

6th February 2013, 19:15

Mongolian

6th February 2013, 19:42

Phreak

6th February 2013, 19:55

Sorry for only just adding my input to this fine thread, I've been keeping my eye on it on and off for a wee while now...

I feel I have to share some valuable info I learnt from my track day a couple of months ago concerning "scrubbing in tires"... A very very VERY experienced instructor told me it's not such a big issue anymore with the new tires, and the way they're manufactured. Basically all you need to do is go for a ride on new treads, be aware they'll be a little slippery at first, but once they have heat in them they'll be fine. To ensure you're getting good heat into them, accelerate as per normal then brake softly (but with enough pressure to slow down), on a straight section of road, repeat this a few times to build up the heat in the tires (I found it easy enough to alternate front then rear brake each time). Once you have heated the tires up to a good temp you can safely say they are scrubbed.

The reason for people believing you need to very gradually scrub in new tires is that the manufacturers used to use a silicon sealant between the rubber of the tire and the mould that the tire was formed in, hence when tires were put on bikes this sealant needed to be worn off in a safe manner before full paced riding could be undertaken. Nowadays, tires are manufactured without the need for the silicon sealant, but with only a very fine "glaze" that wears off once the tires are heated up.

I hope that makes sense, it's pretty much word for word what I was told at the last A.R.T. day at Hampton Downs.

Feel free to correct me if you think I'm wrong though!

:)

How to scrub in new tires (http://www.ehow.com/how_5799918_scrub-new-motorcycle-tires.html) - ehow article I just found, explains it a little better than I did...

nzspokes

6th February 2013, 20:17

Sorry for only just adding my input to this fine thread, I've been keeping my eye on it on and off for a wee while now...

I feel I have to share some valuable info I learnt from my track day a couple of months ago concerning "scrubbing in tires"... A very very VERY experienced instructor told me it's not such a big issue anymore with the new tires, and the way they're manufactured. Basically all you need to do is go for a ride on new treads, be aware they'll be a little slippery at first, but once they have heat in them they'll be fine. To ensure you're getting good heat into them, accelerate as per normal then brake softly (but with enough pressure to slow down), on a straight section of road, repeat this a few times to build up the heat in the tires (I found it easy enough to alternate front then rear brake each time). Once you have heated the tires up to a good temp you can safely say they are scrubbed.

The reason for people believing you need to very gradually scrub in new tires is that the manufacturers used to use a silicon sealant between the rubber of the tire and the mould that the tire was formed in, hence when tires were put on bikes this sealant needed to be worn off in a safe manner before full paced riding could be undertaken. Nowadays, tires are manufactured without the need for the silicon sealant, but with only a very fine "glaze" that wears off once the tires are heated up.

I hope that makes sense, it's pretty much word for word what I was told at the last A.R.T. day at Hampton Downs.

Feel free to correct me if you think I'm wrong though!

:)

Next time you go to Drury tyres, ask how many customers have not made it across the road after fitting new tyres...........

Even though they remind you at least twice and theres a big sign saying to be careful.

frogfeaturesFZR

6th February 2013, 20:17

Yip, thats it pretty much, couple of heat cycles and your new tyres are good to go. After that just don't try to be Rossi before you get them a bit warmed up.

frogfeaturesFZR

6th February 2013, 20:18

Next time you go to Drury tyres, ask how many customers have not made it across the road after fitting new tyres...........

Even though they remind you at least twice and theres a big sign saying to be careful.

Cycletreads are the same.

haydes55

6th February 2013, 21:19

Yada yada yada

Cheers for that.

I've just been sweating it that I'll have to scrub it in over a few slow rides before it would be safe to take on a long trip. :sweatdrop

Obviously I'm more worried than need be.

Also this trip has just gotten better for me!

Made a deal on Trademe, swapping my bike for a BMW F650 in New Plymouth and riding that back (if we are both happy with each other bikes etc.).

Fun ride on awesome roads.:ride:
Hanging out with the gang. :Punk:
New toy. :bye: :woohoo: (If he's REAL nice he would let me keep both? :laugh:)
Do all the fun roads again on a comfier bike the next day. :scooter:

(I offered to chuck the new tire on as a deal sweetner :msn-wink:)

Gremlin

7th February 2013, 01:19

For those more experienced than myself with new tires. I've never had a new tire on a bike before. Should I get it put on friday and spend the arvo scrubbing it in or wait til i get back from the ride? The wear on my current tire is just the middle of the tire down to the bottom of the tread. The sides have tonnes of tread left.
It's not so much long or short rides, it's getting rid of the first layer on the tyre. It also depends what the tyre is. Being a dual purpose bike, if you're putting knobblies or the like on, I've found they perform better on the road once they've been run through gravel.

Otherwise, for road tyres, the first few km are the most important and it gets easier from there. Be gentle on the throttle and progressively lean the bike more and more. You'll see the wear on the tyre start to appear as you scrub the shiny surface off and then once you've got rid of it, you're good to go.

Worst experience for me was either running in new tyres for my boss on his Blackbird (1100cc) in the pouring rain - even the mechanic wouldn't take it for the post-service run around the block, or new knobblies on my 250kg GSA... first corner with the bike squirming sideways wasn't pleasant...

Maha

7th February 2013, 10:09

Scrubbing in tyres is not a science, its common sense. :mellow:

More importantly, Te Kuiti has promised us Sunshine and 27 degs for Saturday. :sunny:

bluninja

7th February 2013, 10:54

Scrubbing in tyres is not a science, its common sense. :mellow:

More importantly, Te Kuiti has promised us Sunshine and 27 degs for Saturday. :sunny:

I guess I'll have to go home-Whangamomona-Uhura-Te Kuiti for lunch then :yes: and back to NP the other way with you nice peeps.

Maha

7th February 2013, 11:48

I guess I'll have to go home-Whangamomona-Uhura-Te Kuiti for lunch then :yes: and back to NP the other way with you nice peeps.

Oh very nice, I have yet to do the Forgotten H/Way...was thinking a three dayer (Auckland-Taupo/Taupo-NP/NP-Auckland) taking in SH 43 on day two...at some stage.
But not with 20 bike though...maybe 6-8 would be suffice.

nadroj

7th February 2013, 11:48

bluninja

7th February 2013, 13:05

We went thru from Stratford to Taumaranui yesterday on day 3 of the motorcycle tour for the masters games. The road is in mint condition to the Taumaranui turnoff but sand in places from the turnoff to Taumaranui if you go that way for fuel.

Thanks for the heads up, but I get 450-500 kms on a tank, so as long as I fill up when I leave home I should be good for the whole trip (but I'll fill up in Te Kuiti).

JafaSaffer

7th February 2013, 14:08

My bike only gets 160km on a tank and does not go in the sand... hope there is plenty of fuel stops...

Maha

7th February 2013, 19:15

CC Rider is coming down for the day, tomorrow afternoon we are going bike shopping, no, not for any one of us, a friend from parts northern has bought a Striple and will be riding it to the Naki on its first ride out.

JafaSaffer

7th February 2013, 19:39

My bike is getting dropped of tomorrow night. FINALLY!!! :woohoo:

Fitting some new "shiny bling" bits then good to roll.:scooter:

Maha

7th February 2013, 19:50

My bike is getting dropped of tomorrow night. FINALLY!!! :woohoo:

Fitting some new "shiny bling" bits then good to roll.:scooter:

Oh mint!...excellent news, nothing like an 11th hour come through.

haydes55

7th February 2013, 21:16

Oh mint!...excellent news, nothing like an 11th hour come through.

Speaking of which.... The tire's getting fitted 9am Saturday morning. Good thing I have a head start on all you guys up north :sunny:

Tarp's and sleeping bag packed (just got to borrow some pegs from works marquee).

VaagVerhaal

7th February 2013, 21:38

Oh mint!...excellent news, nothing like an 11th hour come through.

Great news indeed, heard today my parts arrived also just waiting for the call now to bring it in so they can put it all on.

Anyone bringing his/her laptop with by any chance, if so does it have an sd-card slot?

bosslady

8th February 2013, 06:24

Great news indeed, heard today my parts arrived also just waiting for the call now to bring it in so they can put it all on.

Anyone bringing his/her laptop with by any chance, if so does it have an sd-card slot?

What for? I have a tablet?

Maha

8th February 2013, 06:40

What for? I have a tablet?

Panadol? :shifty:

nathanwhite

8th February 2013, 06:43

What for? I have a tablet?

If I had to hazard a guess, I'd say its to unload the footage from his GoPro.

Grant`

8th February 2013, 06:51

If I had to hazard a guess, I'd say its to unload the footage from his GoPro.

Always so sensible doogle!

bosslady

8th February 2013, 07:18

Panadol? :shifty:

Hardy har har ;)

If I had to hazard a guess, I'd say its to unload the footage from his GoPro.

I guess it all connects with usb and that so no... can't help... no usb on my tablet sorry...

nathanwhite

8th February 2013, 07:21

Always so sensible doogle!

Your looking at the guy who snapped off his own suspension mount due to being a dipstick and not putting the washers in right.

FJRider

8th February 2013, 07:23

If I had to hazard a guess, I'd say its to unload the footage from his GoPro.

Often on such rides ... the GoPro only shows (to great effect) your own fuck-ups ...

What happens on the ride ... should stay on the ride.

Photos/vids of the evening entertainment however ... <_<

VaagVerhaal

8th February 2013, 09:02

Hardy har har ;)

I guess it all connects with usb and that so no... can't help... no usb on my tablet sorry...

No its 32GB sdcard's but if you have a tablet I doubt it'll have space to store that much data... no worries it'll just have to do full is full.

arcane12

8th February 2013, 09:35

Speaking of which.... The tire's getting fitted 9am Saturday morning. Good thing I have a head start on all you guys up north :sunny:

Tarp's and sleeping bag packed (just got to borrow some pegs from works marquee).

Are we meeting up tomorrow somewhere? Dinsdale Caltex? Or just at Pirongia?

bluninja

8th February 2013, 10:06

Anyone bringing his/her laptop with by any chance, if so does it have an sd-card slot?

I can pop a laptop down after the ride to NP and transfer from SD card to sommat else if needed. I intend to put the bike to bed and come back for a beer or two before being driven home later.

bluninja

8th February 2013, 10:08

Bike is now at KSS having a fine tune of the Ohlins rear after a few weeks checking it out. Robert says it will be ready before he closes.....better be :)

haydes55

8th February 2013, 10:39

Are we meeting up tomorrow somewhere? Dinsdale Caltex? Or just at Pirongia?

Dinsdale caltex sounds good. What time do you reckon we should be leaving?

VaagVerhaal

8th February 2013, 15:36

I can pop a laptop down after the ride to NP and transfer from SD card to sommat else if needed. I intend to put the bike to bed and come back for a beer or two before being driven home later.

Thanks for the offer, after giving it some more thought I'll stick with just the cam and an SD card for each day should hopefully be enough and if not then not.

Anyone interested in copying it for themselves is no problem ofcourse!

@Maha you happen to have exact locations in mind for the stops in : Ngaruawahia, Pirongia & Awakino?

arcane12

8th February 2013, 17:08

Dinsdale caltex sounds good. What time do you reckon we should be leaving?

I would say leave Caltex at 11am? Meet there 15 minutes beforehand?

haydes55

8th February 2013, 17:12

I would say leave Caltex at 11am? Meet there 15 minutes beforehand?

Done deal :woohoo:

Maha

8th February 2013, 17:15

Thanks for the offer, after giving it some more thought I'll stick with just the cam and an SD card for each day should hopefully be enough and if not then not.

Anyone interested in copying it for themselves is no problem ofcourse!

@Maha you happen to have exact locations in mind for the stops in : Ngaruawahia, Pirongia & Awakino?

Ngaruawahia stop is by the BP/Pirongia is the Village Cafe? and Awakino?...well there is only a pub there so I am guessing the pub..:confused:

Guestimated times are on the first post.

Right, time for a beer, just finished drooling over the new Striple R in the garage.

bosslady

8th February 2013, 18:20

one more sleep... ;)

VaagVerhaal

8th February 2013, 18:56

Ngaruawahia stop is by the BP/Pirongia is the Village Cafe? and Awakino?...well there is only a pub there so I am guessing the pub..:confused:

Guestimated times are on the first post.

Right, time for a beer, just finished drooling over the new Striple R in the garage.

:drinknsin found the 1st one, if I don't end up on some deserted metal road like last time I'll just see the rest tomorrow when we get there then :)

bluninja

8th February 2013, 19:35

Right, time for a beer, just finished drooling over the new Striple R in the garage.

Hope you don't forget and slip on the drool in the morning; I'm not jealous :yes:

Bike back from KSS....seen the dyno for rebound and compression damping...the blue lines look so much nicer than the black ones. The rear is nicely softened over high speed bumps now on the short test ride home. Tomorrow will be a much better test. Bring it on.:Punk:

Grashopper

8th February 2013, 20:10

nzspokes

8th February 2013, 20:19

Have fun you lot! :scooter:

Ride safe.

haydes55

8th February 2013, 20:29

Soo, I'll see all of you guys tomorrow in Te Kuiti. I'm the one in orange, looking like I have no friends. :wavey:

(Will attach myself to the first big group of riders I see. If I'm lucky they will head to the 'Naki :yes:)

Anyway, does anyone know if there is a petrol station in Te Kuiti?

There's several stations. You could go to the BP on the turnoff at the end of Carroll St. I would suspect I would stop there as well. Otherwise there's a Z station on your way into town if you're coming from the north.

Oops I see you're coming from Taupo? The BP will be easiest for you then. Only 4 pumps there I think, If 20 of us want refuelling I think some might need to go to the Z.

bosslady

8th February 2013, 20:33

There's several stations. You could go to the BP on the turnoff at the end of Carroll St. I would suspect I would stop there as well. Otherwise there's a Z station on your way into town if you're coming from the north.

Oops I see you're coming from Taupo? The BP will be easiest for you then. Only 4 pumps there I think, If 20 of us want refuelling I think some might need to go to the Z.

I bet there's no caltex there?

who hasn't started packing yet? me..

haydes55

8th February 2013, 20:35

I bet there's no caltex there?

who hasn't started packing yet? me..

From memory no, I mainly go through Te Kuiti so don't often go down the main street, but I think there's no other stations there.

I have the tarp and sleeping bag packed, just need undies socks etc and I'm ready.

Can one of you ladies bring your straightners and blow drier for me? Mine wont fit in my bag.

:shifty: :corn:

arcane12

8th February 2013, 20:41

Well. Apparently I cant see straight and my saturday booking was for friday. Just got the call to say, hey, when are you turning up?

Doomed. Was all packed too. Sigh. Anyone got room in the inn?

bosslady

8th February 2013, 20:41

From memory no, I mainly go through Te Kuiti so don't often go down the main street, but I think there's no other stations there.

I have the tarp and sleeping bag packed, just need undies socks etc and I'm ready.

Can one of you ladies bring your straightners and blow drier for me? Mine wont fit in my bag.

:shifty: :corn:

bring your own b1tch!

damnit I don't wanna pay for fuel oh well lol

JafaSaffer

8th February 2013, 20:47

I finally finished thread locking and duck taping my scooter together... so if it makes it to BP with out falling apart all should be fine..:confused:

Grashopper

8th February 2013, 20:47

Can one of you ladies bring your straightners and blow drier for me? Mine wont fit in my bag.

:shifty: :corn:

You need an iron too? :D

haydes55

8th February 2013, 20:51

You need an iron too? :D

and can you fill it with water before you pack it? Thanks :msn-wink:

Grashopper

8th February 2013, 20:52

damnit I don't wanna pay for fuel oh well lol

Looks like there might be a Caltex in Otorohanga, about 15 km north of Te Kuiti. That's at least what Google maps says.

bosslady

8th February 2013, 20:53

You need an iron too? :D

to whack him upside the head with?

bosslady

8th February 2013, 20:54

Looks like there might be a Caltex in Otorohanga, about 15 km north of Te Kuiti. That's at least what Google maps says.

I'm coming with a group can't really hold them up just for me...

insomnia01

8th February 2013, 20:58

Looks like there might be a Caltex in Otorohanga, about 15 km north of Te Kuiti. That's at least what Google maps says.

there's one in pirongia also :yes:

haydes55

8th February 2013, 21:01

I'm coming with a group can't really hold them up just for me...

The ride is at your own pace. While there is leaders and TEC if you want to stop off for gas you can (just don't take your sweet time :laugh:) then just carry on. As long as you know where the next meeting point is, they aren't far apart so it shouldn't be an issue. I'm sure someone more familiar with the route might stop with you as well if you ask nicely. You will ride right past the Caltex through Otorohanga and there's plenty of pumps there so it shouldn't be a detour anyway.

Grashopper

8th February 2013, 21:03

to whack him upside the head with?

Nah, I would not do that. :innocent:

I will bring the ironing board for that. ;)

bosslady

8th February 2013, 21:04

The ride is at your own pace. While there is leaders and TEC if you want to stop off for gas you can (just don't take your sweet time :laugh:) then just carry on. As long as you know where the next meeting point is, they aren't far apart so it shouldn't be an issue. I'm sure someone more familiar with the route might stop with you as well if you ask nicely. You will ride right past the Caltex through Otorohanga and there's plenty of pumps there so it shouldn't be a detour anyway.

will see how we go, I'm just being cheap ;) figure if I don't have to pay then I shouldn't lol

bosslady

8th February 2013, 21:05

Nah, I would not do that. :innocent:

I will bring the ironing board for that. ;)

I look forward to taking pics of a Ginny with an ironing board

haydes55

8th February 2013, 21:06

will see how we go, I'm just being cheap ;) figure if I don't have to pay then I shouldn't lol

You have a gas card? Wonder if work would be kind enough to let me borrow the vans gas card. Works at any gas station :bleh:

Grashopper

8th February 2013, 21:09

Well. Apparently I cant see straight and my saturday booking was for friday. Just got the call to say, hey, when are you turning up?

Doomed. Was all packed too. Sigh. Anyone got room in the inn?

Oh no, that's annoying for you. I think I read somewhere here that some people are staying in other places around the camp ground. Maybe have a look at that.

bosslady

8th February 2013, 21:10

You have a gas card? Wonder if work would be kind enough to let me borrow the vans gas card. Works at any gas station :bleh:

correct ;)

arcane12

8th February 2013, 21:11

Oh no, that's annoying for you. I think I read somewhere here that some people are staying in other places around the camp ground. Maybe have a look at that.

I have noted down a few backpackers in the general region. I guess I'll have to lay off the sauce, so I can ride to where ever I can get a room/bunk.

Grashopper

8th February 2013, 21:14

I look forward to taking pics of a Ginny with an ironing board

It will be like a tiny, very slow plane. just on the ground. :yes:

Maha

8th February 2013, 22:27

bosslady

8th February 2013, 22:28

maha

I was trying to see what time we'd be meeting at pou but I can't find when you wanted to meet there?

bosslady

8th February 2013, 22:39

Maha

9th February 2013, 05:23

anyway must be time for bed..

I will be there at 8:45am unless I see otherwise before I leave home. I do have my mobile which is in my contact page if you need to contact me. Hope everyone sleeps well. See you tomorrow!

p.s. don't forget your pizza money or I'll hunt you down for it ;)

Text sent..we are leaving here at 8am...so 8.30 onwards..
Two are out walking, three still in bed.....I had hungry pains to attend to :laugh:

AND YES...$10 FOR PIZZA...........I had better get to an atm <_<

Mom

9th February 2013, 05:53

who hasn't started packing yet? me..

Me! Best I get my shit together eh? Mind you all I need is some clean knickers and a toothbrush :lol: Oh and wine :)

Two are out walking, <_<

I'm baaack! What a glorious morning. Just need my second coffee and I will be set for the day.

nathanwhite

9th February 2013, 06:04

CC Rider is a real good pillion and she'll will be looking to bike swap tomorrow if anyone can offer up a seat...:scooter:

I volunteer as tribute. Besides if the bike doesn't break with two people on, then I'm all good.

insomnia01

9th February 2013, 07:02

although you lot are possibly on route to meeting point, beaut day down here in the Waikato will be an awesome day for a ride enjoy to the max :Punk::Punk: I feel a quick burn down awakino gorge coming on.......

JafaSaffer

9th February 2013, 14:53

Hope you all had a awesome ride down. Discovered my front brakes were not up to scratch as I left to meet you all this morning, so tried to get it sorted but ran out of time. :facepalm: Next Time.

bluninja

10th February 2013, 06:39

Well a really nice time yesterday, both before meeting up and, after.

I rode Inglewood-Whangamomona-Uhura-Te Kuiti and that was a bit of a mission...
there's roadworks from the bottom of Tahora saddle to the top with new seal, new gravel about 1 km onto the gravel past Whanga, very deep big chunky metal just past Uhura for 1km, and some more on SH4 towards Te Kuiti.

Lovely day for a ride...really nice bunch of people...and if Mom has spotted knickers on today you know she hasn't changed them :woohoo:

Have a great trip home guys and gals.

bosslady

10th February 2013, 06:41

Thanks bluninja and thank your Mrs for the beer run!!

Gremlin

10th February 2013, 12:17

Left a bit later than planned, around 1245-1300 from Auckland so put the Holiday Park in as a destination, with most of a tank of gas left and ran down, following the route the others were taking. With an ETA of 1700 and Maha planning to arrive at 1630, it was doubtful I would find them before the park, but I put my best foot forward and ran down without stops. Traffic was reasonably good, and even better, the cops seemed otherwise occupied. Lots of patchy roadworks on SH3 was annoying, and a hell of a lot of tar bleed in sections, in some places it was hard to find a decent line.

Mt Messenger was at least in great condition, so lots of fun over there. No-one was at the Awakino Pub, the last place they would stop I think. Arriving at the park at 1645, no-one at the front, so I went hunting and couldn't find the bikes. :confused: Rather puzzled I went back to the front to see them all arriving. :laugh: Not quite sure how, but with a deficit of almost 3 hours I managed to beat them there :wings: Perhaps I didn't stop as much (read, I didn't).

Caught up with them, CC rider had a bed sorted by one of the guys at his parent's place in Pukekohe (very kind of you) and since dinner was booked for 1930, too late for us (had to be at Pukekohe around 2300) we left at 1910 (albeit I left without my hat :facepalm:). Filled in New Plymouth, CC didn't need to eat (hell if I know who has good vegetarian options) so we got on the road to put some of the distance behind us. The sunset was stunning and the weather really good, and with a smooth run through to Te Kuiti (barring a few morons trying to use my side of the road as well), arriving at 2115, I'd lopped a few minutes off the ETA. We took a break, CC put her silk jammies on as I think she was feeling a bit cold. I threw liners into my gear, clear visor and winter gloves, all ready for the night run to Pukie. Nice thing about summer night riding is "cold" is 14-15 degrees, so actually really pleasant, just feels cold compared to the day temps of 24-28 degrees. A guy on a Triumph Trident stopped for gas, heading to Hampton Downs for the classic festival.

Another smooth run through to Pukie, arriving bang on the ETA all the way from Te Kuiti of 2320. I think CC was getting tired towards the end as I could feel her nudge into my back then shuffle backwards, several times over :laugh:

Found her bed for the night, turned Jessica towards home, and even did the back road to Drury, which is now hot mix all the way through, complete with lighting. How times change. Really odd riding a country road with lighting (I did get asked once how I could ride in the country at night with no street lights :confused:) but also trippy, as the faster you went, the faster the lighting whizzed by. Felt like a computer game :ride:

Home just after midnight, some 730km clocked up and the bike close to service interval.

Oblivion

10th February 2013, 13:45

Sounds like everyone had a blast. :yes:

arcane12

10th February 2013, 14:05

Found her bed for the night, turned Jessica towards home, and even did the back road to Drury, which is now hot mix all the way through, complete with lighting. How times change. Really odd riding a country road with lighting (I did get asked once how I could ride in the country at night with no street lights :confused:) but also trippy, as the faster you went, the faster the lighting whizzed by. Felt like a computer game :ride:

Having seen the lighting array on the front of your bike, I don't wonder!

-----

Thank you very much Maha for organising this ride, and herding us bunch of cats around! :) Thanks also to the helpers like Mom as TEC, and Bosslady for organising the eats! It was great to meet you all, a great bunch of people, and I hope to meet you out there again soon. And finally I'd like to thank all the little poeple who made this possible.

Now to get that tyre sorted... :shit:

bosslady

10th February 2013, 16:05

Yup was great to meet you all, I had an absolute blast! apart from the achey butt there were no negatives about the whole trip I don't reckon, except perhaps Mom flashing me her knickers today in the cafe... :P

FJRider

10th February 2013, 16:07

pritch

10th February 2013, 16:11

Congratulations to the riders who completed their first tour. Now y'all can spend the coming crappy winter evenings planning your first South Island trip next summer. :yes:

FJRider

10th February 2013, 16:17

Congratulations to the riders who completed their first tour. Now y'all can spend the coming crappy winter evenings planning your first South Island trip next summer. :yes:

Sorry ... we have decided to close all three of our very bad roads for the next summer to expedite repairs. Sorry for the inconvenience.

See you all in the summer of 2015 ... maybe ...

Glowerss

10th February 2013, 16:29

Thanks Maha and Mom for organizing the trip and keeping everyone on target! I had a huge blast this weekend. Met a lot of really cool people. My ass feels like its spent the weekend in a Turkish Prison, but it was well worth it.:Punk:

nathanwhite

10th February 2013, 16:32

Home now, all safe and sound. I'll get around to having a look at the (minimal) photos tonight maybe. Then do some research on suspension spring rates......

Maha

10th February 2013, 16:49

Congratulations to the riders who completed their first tour. Now y'all can spend the coming crappy winter evenings planning your first South Island trip next summer. :yes:

Good to see ya today Pritch, thanks for coming and having a coffee at Big Jims, already talk a bit about another ride...

Home now, all safe and sound. I'll get around to having a look at the (minimal) photos tonight maybe. Then do some research on suspension spring rates......

Can't wait for the pics, have a feeling Kevin may have a few stored away as well..
My arse is sore!

830 kms for us.

haydes55

10th February 2013, 16:55

Good trip (as always :sunny:).

Just under 600km for me. From brand new tire with chicken strips the size of Africa to today having very small chicken strips, fair to say that tire's scrubbed in :woohoo:

Camping went well. My bike is half road bike, half dirt bike, half tent. Do the math on that!

http://s17.postimage.org/49f5n5x9n/New_Plymouth_079.jpg (http://postimage.org/image/49f5n5x9n/) http://s17.postimage.org/uvrmc51gr/New_Plymouth_080.jpg (http://postimage.org/image/uvrmc51gr/) http://s17.postimage.org/9amjoj4q3/New_Plymouth_081.jpg (http://postimage.org/image/9amjoj4q3/)

I might of tried to cuddle the bike a few times..... Oil on my sleeping bag :laugh:
http://s17.postimage.org/okmevq08b/New_Plymouth_082.jpg (http://postimage.org/image/okmevq08b/)

Thanks to whoever left me a flower on my bed/tarp.

Mt Messenger is definitely on the to do again list.

Grant`

10th February 2013, 16:55

I have a route in mind Mark will discuss heh.

Maha

10th February 2013, 16:57

The new Street Triple R is run in, bought new on friday and has just over 1100kms on it...

bosslady

10th February 2013, 16:58

Total km's for the weekend .. ???

Were they the spotted one's again ... ????

I actually don't know how many ks I did :(

No, they were floral ones, very Purdy.

Maha

10th February 2013, 17:07

I actually don't know how many ks I did :(

No, they were floral ones, very Purdy.

I told you that we swap...:confused:

bluninja

10th February 2013, 17:13

I told you that we swap...:confused:
That would explain the way you walk :)

bluninja

10th February 2013, 17:18

Well I feel a wimp only doing 450 kms yesterday.....but it was more fun and more challenging than just breezing down main roads munching the k's. I reckon that the k's through Awakhino and over Mount Messenger should count double or treble for the newer riders.

Grashopper

10th February 2013, 17:23

It was 650 km for me. Great trip, great fun and great people. Thanks again everyone.

Mom

10th February 2013, 17:30

...and if Mom has spotted knickers on today you know she hasn't changed them :woohoo:

:laugh: Be quiet in the cheap seat bulimia. I reckon I looked better than a drop dead, friggen gorgeous thing last night when I went back and put my long johns and socks back on and wore them with my jandels and bike jacket :yes: It is all about how you carry it off you see! Thanks so much for coming along to guide us through the one way system and rounding up a straggler for us. Big hug to Mrs Bulimia for doing a bunch of dehydated bikers a big favour and providing the transport to get "supplies"

except perhaps Mom flashing me her knickers today in the cafe... :P

:rofl: I needed indepandant evidence that I had infact swapped with Maha :innocent:

I reckon that the k's through Awakhino and over Mount Messenger should count double or treble for the newer riders.

Man, I tell you, they really impressed me with how they rode. It was hard to remember that bosslady has only been riding 2 months and (Oh Oh brain fade) Connie for 3. Go the might Ginny!

Bum is nowhere as sore as after 12 kms on a push bike so no complaints from me about that. Bit tired, but all reaction times functioning well. Went down the road to get some milk etc in the car. Some dip shit, wanker ran a stop sign and about took me out. Lucky for me I have lovely ABS, he locked up in a big way. Also lucky for me is I am not backward in coming forward. I read him his pedigree, and punctuated it with a few hand signals for good measure :innocent:

I have put a couple of chicken breasts in the BBQ (stuffed with Brie, covered with garlic butter and some bacon) to bake, and am going to go out and sit in the cool air.

Thanks to everyone that made this weekend so cool.

More later.

:love: Mom

Maha

10th February 2013, 17:54

Yet another glorious ride. The weather could not have been better.
Big thanks to everyone who came along, makes it all worth the while when the company kept is as good as the ride itself. Base camp was perfect and the pizza numbers were spot on.
Really impressed with the newer riders, you guys did yourself proud.
Hayden mate? Classic, sleeping under the stars like that. :zzzz:
Doogle has come a very long way with his riding, had Cas as a pillion for most of the ride, her wee bum couldn’t hack the Yamaha for much more than an hour. She is an excellent rear driver which helps.
Thanks to Simon and Kevin for their local knowledge yesterday, your help in getting everyone to their night quarters was much appreciated. :yes:
The food stops were perfect, even got some shit from the lady’s behind the counter at Pirongia Village Café’..they made me buy a bit of caramel slice before I left.
A Big Jims breakfast is something will happen again, great place and very quick service, just like Boscos in Te Kuiti.
Mt Messenger was an absolute delight to day
MIA was JafaSaffer…bike would just not play the game in the end, keep an eye for more ride mate, you’ll catch one sooner or later.
All those bikes and all those K’s covered with not one incident, I applaud you all for that.
Gremlin to the rescue once again, left Auckland 2 hours after we did, arriving before we did and leaving for Auckland a couple of hours later with CC Rider…
Best on road moment? Irene getting the Holeshot over Doogle at the lights in NP…without doubt! :laugh:

Thanks Guys
Mark

nerrrd

10th February 2013, 17:56

Same here, had a great trip and thanks to everyone for making it possible. Quite tired now, though.

Got home, was taking off my gear and noticed a bump under my shirt, what's that? Ouch, it's a @$&/!#+% bee! So stung by a wasp while en route on Saturday, and a bee today. At least the bee had the decency to wait till I got home...might have to rethink the whole hivis thing :facepalm:.

bosslady

10th February 2013, 17:58

Thanks Mark and Anne I really appreciate you guys letting me come on the trip :)

I thought it was hilarious that people recognised me, I mean my bike, and knew who I was straight away, lol!

bosslady

10th February 2013, 18:03

Maha

10th February 2013, 18:05

Thanks Mark and Anne I really appreciate you guys letting me come on the trip :)

I thought it was hilarious that people recognised me, I mean my bike and knew who I was straight away, lol!

You proved you could manage it the other weekend, for someone who has been riding for only a couple of months, doing as ride like this on a GN is something to smile about, both you and Grasshopper.

haydes55

10th February 2013, 18:10

haydes55

10th February 2013, 18:11

nerrrd

10th February 2013, 18:13

They think you're a purrrdy juicy flower obviously!

Hope you've got those beers chilling in the fridge!

Yup, about to have a well-travelled and highly shook-up Heinecken. Now where's that bottle opener (errr, do I even have a bottle opener??)

You proved you could manage it the other weekend, for someone who has been riding for only a couple of months, doing as ride like this on a GN is something to smile about, both you and Grasshopper.

Hear, hear!:yes:

bosslady

10th February 2013, 18:15

I noticed the L-plate with a nice curve missing from the bottom :laugh:

yea that's from my lard ass and my bike going in reverse burnt a hole in my plate!

FJRider

10th February 2013, 18:31

I actually don't know how many ks I did :(

No, they were floral ones, very Purdy.

My map book tells me it would be over 730 km's ... not a bad ride.

First up best dressed in Mom's house it seems.

VaagVerhaal

10th February 2013, 18:40

Big thanks to Maha and Mom and everyone else who helped organising this ride.

Really nice route to drive and a lot of fun the rest of the time also, thanks everyone!

Maha

10th February 2013, 18:44

Big thanks to Maha and Mom and everyone else who helped organising this ride.

Really nice route to drive and a lot of fun the rest of the time also, thanks everyone!

Yeah sleeping in bathroom must have been the hightlight Mike?....:confused:

newhere

10th February 2013, 18:49

Boots

10th February 2013, 18:51

Best on road moment? Irene getting the Holeshot over Doogle at the lights in NP…without doubt! :laugh:

What else ya gonna do when someone revs their engine beside you? :whistle:
(Doug was 2 up though.)

Got home, was taking off my gear and noticed a bump under my shirt, what's that? Ouch, it's a @$&/!#+% bee! So stung by a wasp while en route on Saturday, and a bee today. At least the bee had the decency to wait till I got home...might have to rethink the whole hivis thing :facepalm:.

Stung twice on one ride; what a bugger!

Had a fantastic weekend - great roads, great weather and great company! I haven't had a blow out like that for a long time.
Thanks everyone and congrates to the new riders, you did really well.
The bum's recovered already (the advantage of living in Tuakau) although the legs are a bit stiff.

Just got called for dinner. See y'all next time
I

VaagVerhaal

10th February 2013, 18:57

Yeah sleeping in bathroom must have been the hightlight Mike?....:confused:

Yeah well euhm... what can I say about that without getting newhere's reputation in danger ;)

Mom

10th February 2013, 19:04

Thanks Mark and Anne I really appreciate you guys letting me come on the trip :)

I thought it was hilarious that people recognised me, I mean my bike, and knew who I was straight away, lol!

I think they recognised the number of threads you have started, and wanted to come meet the nutter themselves :love:

You really impressed me this weekend! Your riding for such a short time on two wheels, and given the bike you ride, outstanding!

bluninja

10th February 2013, 19:05

Fucking aye!!! Whangamomona Whangamomona Whangamomona Whangamomona Whangamomona Whangamomona :laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh:

So nice to meet you guys <_<

Some of us get confused between real life and Star Trek....apparently I went through Ohura.....Uhura may be a bit old for me:shit:

It seems the effects of the KGB black have worn off for you :laugh:

bosslady

10th February 2013, 19:12

I think they recognised the number of threads you have started, and wanted to come meet the nutter themselves :love:

You really impressed me this weekend! Your riding for such a short time on two wheels, and given the bike you ride, outstanding!

Yea I noticed that haha. Wanted to see who the prolific poster of absolute crap was! I don't know who Kevin is on here? he took a pic of me and said NOW WHO'S THE BOSS. lols.

I think my bike did so well, I'm very proud of Ginny. I still think I will be happy with her for at least awhile yet, :love:

newhere

10th February 2013, 19:16

Yeah well euhm... what can I say about that without getting newhere's reputation in danger ;)

lolol OH DEAR :shifty:

newhere

10th February 2013, 19:18

newhere

10th February 2013, 19:21

Some of us get confused between real life and Star Trek....apparently I went through Ohura.....Uhura may be a bit old for me:shit:

It seems the effects of the KGB black have worn off for you :laugh:

:laugh::laugh::laugh: hehe, god damn, I just love that word - whanganamamangnamaaaaa:facepalm: I really loved meeting you and the MRS, give her a hug, she is a gem :sunny:

newhere

10th February 2013, 19:27

1040kms for me this weekend. :sweatdrop:sweatdrop:sweatdrop Good effort I feel, possibly a few tickets on route to my place today :Police:

bosslady

10th February 2013, 19:29

I reckon, you "onnie" girls were rocking the ginnys :yes:

thanks! was great meeting you, sorry I didn't get to say toodleooo.

Mongolian

10th February 2013, 19:35

newhere

10th February 2013, 19:35

278268278269278270

The cutest toilet block anyone could lay eyes on. :woohoo:

nathanwhite

10th February 2013, 19:40

What else ya gonna do when someone revs their engine beside you? :whistle:
(Doug was 2 up though.)

I

Doogle didn't think you were going to actually do that. Bit of a :blink: moment when you did.

Race you again anytime though, 2up or not. :D

newhere

10th February 2013, 19:42

had an awesome ride with you all this weekend, crashed as soon as I got home.

Definitely gonna have to look at some changes to my ninja if im to do that more often i think.

Was awesome meeting you all, and definitely looking forward to doing more rides with you all.

It was so cool to meet you :sunny:

ps: sometime running is good for more than just your fitness :msn-wink::laugh: as per my tack full (or less) demonstration this arvo :laugh::laugh::laugh::wings:

newhere

10th February 2013, 19:46

thanks! was great meeting you, sorry I didn't get to say toodleooo.

Next time :woohoo:

nadroj

10th February 2013, 19:56

Yea I noticed that haha. Wanted to see who the prolific poster of absolute crap was! I don't know who Kevin is on here? he took a pic of me and said NOW WHO'S THE BOSS. lols.

I think my bike did so well, I'm very proud of Ginny. I still think I will be happy with her for at least awhile yet, :love:

..... and you got your own back by deleting 'that' picture when playing with my zoom!

bosslady

10th February 2013, 19:56

Next time :woohoo:

fo shizzle mah nizzle

Maha

10th February 2013, 19:58

A photo....or two.

bosslady

10th February 2013, 19:58

..... and you got your own back by deleting 'that' picture when playing with my zoom!

ohhhh this is you?

nah I dunno how to do that, twas doogle!

nadroj

10th February 2013, 20:01

ohhhh this is you?

nah I dunno how to do that, twas doogle!

Tui!!!!!!!!!!!!

Maha

10th February 2013, 20:22

Our morning walk....

haydes55

10th February 2013, 20:43

A photo....or two.

I look cute when I'm sleeping. :love:

Anyone else have their photo taken whilst asleep? Or would that be creepy? :laugh:

bosslady

10th February 2013, 20:46

I look cute when I'm sleeping. :love:

Anyone else have their photo taken whilst asleep? Or would that be creepy? :laugh:

would depend what I'm wearing, or not...

haydes55

10th February 2013, 20:54

would depend what I'm wearing, or not...

Onesies with hearts, dugh!

newhere

10th February 2013, 20:56

I look cute when I'm sleeping. :love:

Aaaawwwww yup, I hear you got flowers to..............:laugh:

haydes55

10th February 2013, 20:56

Aaaawwwww yup, I hear you got flowers to..............:laugh:

From a secret admirer no doubt. :woohoo:

newhere

10th February 2013, 20:59

From a secret admirer no doubt. :woohoo:

Eeeeenneeee meeeeannnnieeee mineeeey I can't take credit for them, I was gonna haunt you not leave you pressies :laugh:

haydes55

10th February 2013, 21:01

Eeeeenneeee meeeeannnnieeee mineeeey I can't take credit for them, I was gonna haunt you not leave you pressies :laugh:

I didn't get haunted at night. But the paparazzi got me in the morning :2guns:

bosslady

10th February 2013, 21:04

Onesies with hearts, dugh!

close. I was wearing pink jammies with hearts and lil elephants

newhere

10th February 2013, 21:04

I didn't get haunted at night. But the paparazzi got me in the morning :2guns:

I know! I got distracted :shifty: Lucky Mark was on form to capture your angelic self on camera!!!!

FJRider

10th February 2013, 21:38

close. I was wearing pink jammies with hearts and lil elephants

Not found any with Dinosaur's on yet ... huh ... ??? :innocent:

FJRider

10th February 2013, 21:40

From a secret admirer no doubt. :woohoo:

Or ... somebody trying to distract a bee ...

newhere

10th February 2013, 21:57

Or ... somebody trying to distract a bee ...

With their neck...and chesty bits .... :shit: :laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh::bleh::bleh::bleh::msn-wink:

nerrrd

11th February 2013, 06:42

Or ... somebody trying to distract a bee ...

Wish I'd thought of that...:yes:.

I am not a flower! Stupid insects!

With their neck...and chesty bits .... :shit: :laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh::bleh::bleh::bleh::msn-wink:

The bee got me in the gut, so plenty of padding to cushion the blow. And then it died, which was kind-of sad for the bee (and the NZ agricultural industry.)

bluninja

11th February 2013, 09:42

:laugh::laugh::laugh: hehe, god damn, I just love that word - whanganamamangnamaaaaa:facepalm: I really loved meeting you and the MRS, give her a hug, she is a gem :sunny:

Any excuse to give the mrs a hug :) Washed my bike yesterday....won't start today :(

Thong on Mom Oh My!!

Maha

11th February 2013, 13:48

After having organised 35 group rides, I still find myself learning a thing or two when each is (and sometimes during) is completed.
I neglected, or perhaps forgot, to make mention a couple of things, one in general and one more specific to the newer riders.
The pleasing thing is, the 100% all home safe, and at times, shattered...record is still in tack, and thats all done to the respect shown by eveyone to everyone on the ride.

Shearing the lead roles on day two was good to see, it's a bloody tough job out in front for that length of time eh Stephen?
Wouldn't have minded if someone could take my job for a stint of two.....:shifty:
Something to look at next time maybe?

I have two more rides in mind before the Cape ride in Nov...will see how things pan out.

bosslady

11th February 2013, 14:21

I neglected, or perhaps forgot, to make mention a couple of things, one in general and one more specific to the newer riders.

What was that?

Grant`

11th February 2013, 14:31

What was that?
He shares undies with mom!

Maha

11th February 2013, 14:32

What was that?

Normally at the ride brief, I have a certain few things that always get said for the nubeez primarily, I ommitted one about what to do when a car is riding your arse.
I also didn't go over the ride brief again when others joined in down the way...

I have cut back on what is said at the ride brief because, to much info doesn't get taken in.
But like I said, always learning, which helps when putting together other rides.
There are always one or two 'holy crap' moments on every group ride, that unavoidable...but are pointed out to me after the fact...which again, helps a great deal.

Normal Brief...(bold is what I forgot)

*: Each Group Leader will control the group speed (80-100)
:There Will Be No Passing Within Each Group
:The Use Of Mirrors is Paramount in a Group Ride Situation, Please use Them…Always
:Watch Your Following Distances With The Bike In Front, That Person is Your Friend.
:Please try and stay within 5-6 bike lengths with the bike in front of you.
:Staggered Formation Where Possible (no single file on the straight bits)
:If a car is bothering you in any way, indicate left and slow (where it’s safe to do so) and wave them passed.
:But ultimately, have a way cool time.

*The speed of group one is up to the leader of that group.

Maha

11th February 2013, 14:33

He shares undies with mom!

Damn I am so out of bling today, have tried on several occassions but........anyway, do some work!

Grant`

11th February 2013, 14:38

Damn I am so out of bling today, have tried on several occassions but........anyway, do some work!
Lol do some work yourself! Took me an hour to do tahuna/ohinewai road through morrinsville to Cambridge wasnt a bad effort i thought.

bosslady

11th February 2013, 14:39

He shares undies with mom!

Stop procrastinating and get back to work you lazy fecker.

Normally at the ride brief, I have a certain few things that always get said for the nubeez primarily, I ommitted one about what to do when a car is riding your arse.
I also didn't go over the ride brief again when others joined in down the way...

I have cut back on what is said at the ride brief because, to much info doesn't get taken in.
But like I said, always learning, which helps when putting together other rides.
There are always one or two 'holy crap' moments on every group ride, that unavoidable...but are pointed out to me after the fact...which again, helps a great deal.

Are there like the top 5 (or ten.. or whatever) things that you always say? Is it worth having on a little a5 or smaller print out? I could do some up for you the next time you do an L's angels to pass out to everyone, I dunno.. worth a think in the future perhaps.

Maha

11th February 2013, 14:44

Stop procrastinating and get back to work you lazy fecker.

Are there like the top 5 (or ten.. or whatever) things that you always say? Is it worth having on a little a5 or smaller print out? I could do some up for you the next time you do an L's angels to pass out to everyone, I dunno.. worth a think in the future perhaps.

I am always more organised and do have a four or five page print out of whats happening...for my own record really (phone numbers/fuel stops/food stops/distances etc) didn't happen this time. :no:

bosslady

11th February 2013, 14:51

I am always more organised and do have a four or five page print out of whats happening...for my own record really (phone numbers/fuel stops/food stops/distances etc) didn't happen this time. :no:

All good, let me know if you need any help with stuff next time.

haydes55

11th February 2013, 15:11

I am always more organised and have a four or five page print out of whats happening...for my own record really (phone numbers/fuel stops/food stops/distances etc) didn't happen this time. :no:

If that ride was considered unorganised then your standards are very high. 100% home safe and 100% had a fun weekend. I think I've been on enough rides with you lot that i would be comfortable to take the job of tec for either group. For the next ride I want to go up to auckland the night before and start at the very start.

bluninja

11th February 2013, 15:39

Normally at the ride brief, I have a certain few things that always get said for the nubeez primarily, I ommitted one about what to do when a car is riding your arse.
I also didn't go over the ride brief again when others joined in down the way...

I have cut back on what is said at the ride brief because, to much info doesn't get taken in.
But like I said, always learning, which helps when putting together other rides.
There are always one or two 'holy crap' moments on every group ride, that unavoidable...but are pointed out to me after the fact...which again, helps a great deal.

Normal Brief...(bold is what I forgot)

*: Each Group Leader will control the group speed (80-100)
:There Will Be No Passing Within Each Group
:The Use Of Mirrors is Paramount in a Group Ride Situation, Please use Them…Always
:Watch Your Following Distances With The Bike In Front, That Person is Your Friend.
:Please try and stay within 5-6 bike lengths with the bike in front of you.
:Staggered Formation Where Possible (no single file on the straight bits)
:If a car is bothering you in any way, indicate left and slow (where it’s safe to do so) and wave them passed.
:But ultimately, have a way cool time.

*The speed of group one is up to the leader of that group.

I read the briefing at the start of this thread....it's nice to have someone who cares enough to go through them again so everyone is on the same page. Joining at Te Kuiti I asked you where you wanted me (OOer! didn't realise you and Mom shared undies at the time :shutup:) and you said just go with the first group they are all experienced riders. As it was my first ride with you I was a good boy (unlike some) and didn't overtake within my group :laugh: You did a fantastic job, and it would be great to meet up for a ride again sometime.

Maha

11th February 2013, 15:57

If that ride was considered unorganised then your standards are very high. 100% home safe and 100% had a fun weekend. I think I've been on enough rides with you lot that i would be comfortable to take the job of tec for either group. For the next ride I want to go up to auckland the night before and start at the very start.

Always a welcome sight Hayden, third ride for you now.

I read the briefing at the start of this thread....it's nice to have someone who cares enough to go through them again so everyone is on the same page. Joining at Te Kuiti I asked you where you wanted me (OOer! didn't realise you and Mom shared undies at the time :shutup:) and you said just go with the first group they are all experienced riders. As it was my first ride with you I was a good boy (unlike some) and didn't overtake within my group :laugh: You did a fantastic job, and it would be great to meet up for a ride again sometime.

The only reason for the 'no overtaking within a group thing' is to stop the 'sit back and then carve everyone up' scenario from happening.
Group one is for those who perfer to get out there and make the most of it, much like the slower riders.
Good to have you along Simon, looking at April for the next.

Grashopper

11th February 2013, 16:43

:If a car is bothering you in any way, indicate left and slow (where it’s safe to do so) and wave them passed.

Ooops, yeah that would be me. Wasn't sure what to do about that. When I'm on my own I just let them pass, but within the group he would have just gone and bothered the next rider and I was a bit worried to be cut off from the others.

Next time I'll now better. Did you say April? :)

Maha

11th February 2013, 16:48

Mom

11th February 2013, 17:22

Ooops, yeah that would be me. Wasn't sure what to do about that. When I'm on my own I just let them pass, but within the group he would have just gone and bothered the next rider and I was a bit worried to be cut off from the others.

Next time I'll now better. Did you say April? :)

Yeah, it was a bit of a shame that you did not get that bit of info :pinch: I dont mind taking heat from cars, but sometimes it is just better to let them go, specially if they can get past all/most of the group, slowing right down, indicating left and pulling over just makes it that much easier for them to go away out of youe need to be concerned about list.

insomnia01

11th February 2013, 17:22

Yip, April, looking to head your way ...Turangi via Taumarunui...Whakamaru/Cambridge/Nodrogton etc...just a thought.

let us know if myself or LOR in the Waikato can be of any assistance regarding road routes etc,etc :yes: plenty of riders here willing to share this paradise with like minded individuals :shutup::shutup::bash:

FJRider

11th February 2013, 17:46

... but within the group he would have just gone and bothered the next rider and I was a bit worried to be cut off from the others.

Next time I'll now better. Did you say April? :)

First priority on a ride is your own safety. But don't worry about being "Cut off from the others" as they will still be in sight (or not far out of sight). They know you are behind them still ... and there is little you can do from behind that car to protect the other riders. Best just to drop back a bit and not get involved in any incident. The others wont be more than a minute or so ahead. If you know where the next stop point is ... there should be no problems with the others getting ahead.

Bunching up can even put more riders into an incident. Spread out and let the road hog pass with ease. Less stress all round.

bosslady

11th February 2013, 18:30

Yip, April, looking to head your way ...Turangi via Taumarunui...Whakamaru/Cambridge/Nodrogton etc...just a thought.

I'd be in with a grin if this were a ride I'd be allowed on :)

Grant`

11th February 2013, 18:47

I'd be in with a grin if this were a ride I'd be allowed on :)
Remind me to stay away from mighty muff for i fear its power!

bosslady

11th February 2013, 18:57

Remind me to stay away from mighty muff for i fear its power!

Nobody complained about my muff. They were quite impressed about it actually. Most people are.

Grant`

11th February 2013, 19:23

Nobody complained about my muff. They were quite impressed about it actually. Most people are.

Oh very impressed i just fear its awesome power lol

Mom

11th February 2013, 19:27

I'd be in with a grin if this were a ride I'd be allowed on :)

I never saw yours, though I thought I might be in with a grin after I showed you mine, you looked like showing me yours, but no, just a teaser :laugh:

Muffs aside, look at longer shorts and you will be fine. NO sweaty calves to worry about :lol:

How was CFO today, I hope he ate humble pie :yes:

bosslady

11th February 2013, 19:32

I never saw yours, though I thought I might be in with a grin after I showed you mine, you looked like showing me yours, but no, just a teaser :laugh:

Muffs aside, look at longer shorts and you will be fine. NO sweaty calves to worry about :lol:

How was CFO today, I hope he ate humble pie :yes:

I didn't see him today he works in a different building. But he did ring and try to prank me, something about he'd like to report a speeding motorcyclist on a gn250, but I have caller ID so it was a no go and also complete rubbish no one would ever believe that ;)

bosslady

11th February 2013, 19:33

Oh very impressed i just fear its awesome power lol

Sorry, I'm confused, we're talking about my bike, right?

Mom

11th February 2013, 19:41

I didn't see him today he works in a different building. But he did ring and try to prank me, something about he'd like to report a speeding motorcyclist on a gn250, but I have caller ID so it was a no go and also complete rubbish no one would ever believe that ;)

Mr Silly :lol:

Though your speed???????? Scarey shit on a Ginny!

bosslady

11th February 2013, 19:44

Mr Silly :lol:

Though your speed???????? Scarey shit on a Ginny!

what you mean?

Grant`

11th February 2013, 19:45

what you mean?

Well with no muff you must almost be on par with the power of a lawnmower, if not must sound like one at least. ;-)

newhere

11th February 2013, 19:46

So dear doogle, where are your pic's? :woohoo:

bosslady

11th February 2013, 19:49

Well with no muff you must almost be on par with the power of a lawnmower, if not must sound like one at least. ;-)

Jealousy is not becoming of you..

So dear doogle, where are your pic's? :woohoo:

Nooo no no don't encourage him!

newhere

11th February 2013, 19:53

Nooo no no don't encourage him!

Yes yes :laugh::laugh::laugh:

Mom

11th February 2013, 20:01

Nooo no no don't encourage him!

My mate Doogle always posts only the best pics of me :spanking:

I have no doubt he is saving up my most wonderful moments for greater impact :yes:

Either that or he is busy :confused:

newhere

11th February 2013, 20:02

My mate Doogle always posts only the best pics of me :spanking:

I have no doubt he is saving up my most wonderful moments for greater impact :yes:

Either that or he is busy :confused:

Spotty knickers and all :laugh:

swbarnett

11th February 2013, 20:03

Shearing the lead roles on day two was good to see, it's a bloody tough job out in front for that length of time eh Stephen?
Yeah, bloody near impossible finding the TEC in the mrrors. (yes, I do know what my mrs looks like). Just a bunch of indistinguishable lights when the group gets spread out.

On Sunday I mostly wanted to stick with Irene. Was a bloody good burn though... Had a blast.

Wouldn't have minded if someone could take my job for a stint of two.....:shifty:
Something to look at next time maybe?
Maybe next time assign a set of leaders and TECs for each day if we have enough sufficiently expericnced riders.

I have two more rides in mind before the Cape ride in Nov...will see how things pan out.
Not sure if we'll make the April one. Irene will be submitting around then. Maybe a good blow out if it's after...

newhere

11th February 2013, 20:09

Dang, I must share rep around first.... :msn-wink: (BWHAHAHAHAHAHAAA by the way...I liked it - so appropriate...)

newhere

11th February 2013, 20:19

...Maybe next time assign a set of leaders and TECs for each day if we have enough sufficiently expericnced riders...

The FEC/TEC's probably could switch each stop, this was my first trip with no jobby, I just wanted to pootle along and enjoy the scenery which I did and LOVED it was so pretty, the water was just stunning. I reckon mixing it up is a good plan so win win win :sunny:

nerrrd

11th February 2013, 21:06

Coming in a bit late on this but I didn't miss having much in the way of formal instructions because Maha and Mom did such a great job of leading (and following?) by example in our group - definitely earned some time off imho. Everyone was really friendly and had a great attitude I thought and that carried over to the riding as well.

Only thing I wasn't sure about was when I lost sight of riders behind me, I felt like I should drop back enough to keep the riders in front still in sight and wait for the others to catch up, not sure if that was the done thing or not.

Oh and thanks Mom for suggesting I get my jacket at dinner (should have thought of that myself, really) and helping me when the cups fell on the floor at the water cooler at breakfast (and the farewell hug) and bosslady for organising the pizza and sharing the beer and Mongolian for actually opening the beer etc etc ...

VaagVerhaal

11th February 2013, 21:17

I didn't see him today he works in a different building. But he did ring and try to prank me, something about he'd like to report a speeding motorcyclist on a gn250, but I have caller ID so it was a no go and also complete rubbish no one would ever believe that ;)

I better not post video proof of it then? :p

Mr Silly :lol:

Though your speed???????? Scarey shit on a Ginny!

That's exactly what I thought following her after the last stop :)

bosslady

11th February 2013, 21:53

I better not post video proof of it then? :p

That's exactly what I thought following her after the last stop :)

I genuinely am confuzzled. No idea what you crazies are talking about!! lies, filthy lies!

Gremlin

12th February 2013, 00:55

... and also complete rubbish no one would ever believe that ;)
Mate of mine has a speeding ticket (plus photo proof of being pulled over etc) on his GN250... Toto is very special :laugh:

bosslady

12th February 2013, 06:24

Mate of mine has a speeding ticket (plus photo proof of being pulled over etc) on his GN250... Toto is very special :laugh:

My bike can't go over 100kmh, I swear ;)

nerrrd

12th February 2013, 06:50

I'd say once you get a bike with a bit more oompfh you won't be in the slow group for long - not dissing the GN btw (my bike is basically a larger capacity, over-engineered GN after all).

Also the Captain Slow in me just wants to point out that confidence is good, it's also good to temper it with caution...not that I'm an authority on that.

nathanwhite

12th February 2013, 07:06

So dear doogle, where are your pic's? :woohoo:

Nooo no no don't encourage him!

My mate Doogle always posts only the best pics of me :spanking:

I have no doubt he is saving up my most wonderful moments for greater impact :yes:

Either that or he is busy :confused:

Generated a bit of interest it seems. When I got around to sorting them out yesterday, they decided to be an obsolute pain and refused to come off my camera.

Serves me right for getting clever with Linux, but there you have it. I'm going to filter through them today sometime and they should be up tonight

bosslady

12th February 2013, 07:32

Boots

12th February 2013, 08:23

I was a good boy (unlike some) and didn't overtake within my group :laugh: You did a fantastic job, and it would be great to meet up for a ride again sometime.

I'll admit it, I overtook. :o I got bored being TEC and took off up Mt Messenger (the group seemed to have broken up anyway).
I've learned that being TEC all day isn't good for me. Next time Steve and I could swap roles at lunch time - I think we would both enjoy it more that way.
I'd be happy to spell you leading the learners Maha.

Irene

bluninja

12th February 2013, 10:17

arcane12

12th February 2013, 12:30

Yeah, it was a bit of a shame that you did not get that bit of info :pinch: I dont mind taking heat from cars, but sometimes it is just better to let them go, specially if they can get past all/most of the group, slowing right down, indicating left and pulling over just makes it that much easier for them to go away out of youe need to be concerned about list.

First up I'll say I read the brief, but forgot the stagger file. oops!

That car (with the dealer plates) annoyed me, he was being a bit of an idiot, but even with my close call I was not super worried. He obviously only really wanted to pass on the passing lane, but couldn't be bothered to slow down at the end of it. Lazy driving. As a snap decision I felt it was safer to power ahead (I was about a meter in front) rather than try and find the room before the corner to let him pass. Maybe on a GN I might have done it different?

Next passing lane he was gone, though only to bug the next person in line, unfortunately. The other traffic didn't make passing conditions easy.

I hope I did well with the other rules, though most are common sense really. I am not sure on my personal opinion on staggered formation, it has it's ups and downs (lefts and rights?) and for the ride we were doing was a good fit. Again great work all, and I might cartch ya in April?

Maha

12th February 2013, 12:56

I'll admit it, I overtook. :o I got bored being TEC and took off up Mt Messenger (the group seemed to have broken up anyway).
I've learned that being TEC all day isn't good for me. Next time Steve and I could swap roles at lunch time - I think we would both enjoy it more that way.
I'd be happy to spell you leading the learners Maha.

Irene

Yeah its a tough job (as I said before) and its all day. In front, forever looking in the mirrors....''ok I can see three bikes, wheres the rest''?...slow it up for a km or two...''theres one more...and I think thats the rest''?
I was mentally shagged when I got home, but its like that after all the away group rides.

Was good the see Ash take over after breakfast for you guys.
Will have a look at RIC/TEC thing next time, normally I ask who wants to and get 6-7 saying they can help.
Yet another thing I ommitted this ride...:confused:
It's still a huge amount of pleasure though.

bosslady

12th February 2013, 15:47

I am not sure on my personal opinion on staggered formation, it has it's ups and downs (lefts and rights?) and for the ride we were doing was a good fit. Again great work all, and I might cartch ya in April?

Staggered is just for the straights. Around corners, everyone follows generally the same lines. My concern with you not being in a staggered formation was that it made it difficult for me who was behind you, if I had to stop suddenly I would go straight up your butt (and I'm pretty sure you don't like it up the butt! :lol:) Staggered formation gives people, especially a newb like me, more time to stop/react. Not a criticism, guess it just made me feel safer, staggered.

Anyway if I'm wrong please correct me Maha or the like..

bluninja

12th February 2013, 15:58

bosslady

12th February 2013, 16:09

and to provide a better view then the rider in fronts butt :confused:

Depends on the rider though, dunnit? :spanking:

Maha

12th February 2013, 16:20

nathanwhite

12th February 2013, 16:23

Pitiful few this time around. Still waiting to see some of the footage taken though.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/58553393@N02/sets/72157632743999585/

Usage is free but must include attribution yadda yadda

Maha

12th February 2013, 16:32

I love that one of Anne and Boss...:yes:
All of the learner group this time?
Thought you took some night time pics?

bluninja

12th February 2013, 16:49

Nice pictures. Goodness knows what Boss was holding in each hand......:sweatdrop or she has a strange shape to her bars

haydes55

12th February 2013, 16:53

I love that one of Anne and Boss...:yes:
All of the learner group this time?

That's my favourite one haha should be her avatar I reckon.

What were they talking about? Rossi? Skids? :laugh:

Maha

12th February 2013, 16:54

That's my favourite one haha should be her avatar I reckon.

What were they talking about? Rossi? Skids? :laugh:

Turkey strangling I think?
Great pics of the two Ginnys....note the size difference in packs? :confused:

bosslady

12th February 2013, 17:36

There is now irrefutable proof that I AM in fact a RETARD :lol:

nathanwhite

12th February 2013, 19:04

I love that one of Anne and Boss...:yes:
All of the learner group this time?
Thought you took some night time pics?

Nope. Your not remembering Kawhia?

That's my favourite one haha should be her avatar I reckon.

What were they talking about? Rossi? Skids? :laugh:

Describing the fearsome power of the GN I believe

There is now irrefutable proof that I AM in fact a RETARD :lol:

You are smiling there. I cut out all of the derp faces you pulled

nerrrd

12th February 2013, 19:21

There is now irrefutable proof that I AM in fact a RETARD :lol:

Definitely got the coolest visor, though :Punk:.

And I'm definitely the yellowest...

bosslady

12th February 2013, 19:32

Definitely got the coolest visor, though :Punk:.

And I'm definitely the yellowest...

yea quite happy with my tinted visor... THE BOSS!!

FJRider

12th February 2013, 19:32

Staggered formation on the straights allows the group to remain more compact whilst providing enough distance to react and stop. Through the bends I found I took quite different lines to a lot of other people both, because that's what I do, and to provide a better view then the rider in fronts butt :confused:

Only if the rider in front of you doesn't brake and swerve into your line. So then you either run into them ... or whatever it was THEY were trying to avoid.

The only thing safer than a two second gap ... is a three second gap.

Boots

12th February 2013, 22:41

Cool Photos as usual!

Boots

12th February 2013, 22:44

And what a nice overtake it was too :)

Thank you (the cheque's in the mail ;))

bluninja

13th February 2013, 06:56

Only if the rider in front of you doesn't brake and swerve into your line. So then you either run into them ... or whatever it was THEY were trying to avoid.

The only thing safer than a two second gap ... is a three second gap.

I appreciate where you are coming from...and, outside of group rides, give myself the gap I think is right.

However in a staggered formation you don't have to only see the road to the rider directly in front. I ride to have a view of the free space directly ahead to the bike in front, AND the space in front of the rider to my right or left in the zigzag. I then will see hazards, roadkill etc in their path and can plan what I do based on what I see of the whole road ahead.

I see this no differently than riding down an overtaking lane or 4 lane highway. Any vehicle can suddenly swerve (particulalry cars and trucks) around a hazard you can't see within your stopping zone. With bikes on normal width roads there is normally room for you to go past in "your" zigzag lane even if another bike swerves across.

Only a fool breaks the 2 second rule. In rain, snow and fog only an absolute fool breaks the 4 second rule.

Good easy to remember guidelines, and the rules should be adhered to within the zigzag imho.

FJRider

13th February 2013, 07:09

I see this no differently than riding down an overtaking lane or 4 lane highway. Any vehicle can suddenly swerve (particulalry cars and trucks) around a hazard you can't see within your stopping zone. With bikes on normal width roads there is normally room for you to go past in "your" zigzag lane even if another bike swerves across.

Only a fool breaks the 2 second rule. In rain, snow and fog only an absolute fool breaks the 4 second rule.

Good easy to remember guidelines, and the rules should be adhered to within the zigzag imho.

Remember ... sheep don't stay in their own lane. Never expect to see all things on/in/on the side of the road in front of the rider AHEAD of you. Your eyesight is not that good.

Grant`

13th February 2013, 07:14

Remember ... sheep don't stay in their own lane. Never expect to see all things on/in/on the side of the road in front of the rider AHEAD of you. Your eyesight is not that good.

Simple everybody on the road is a fucking muppet and treat them accordingly.. Bike, car, truck doesn't really matter...

bosslady

13th February 2013, 07:21

Yup.

You gotta watch out for them there sheep.

http://img2.moonbuggy.org/imgstore/crazy-sheep.jpg

arcane12

13th February 2013, 08:01

Staggered is just for the straights. Around corners, everyone follows generally the same lines. My concern with you not being in a staggered formation was that it made it difficult for me who was behind you, if I had to stop suddenly I would go straight up your butt (and I'm pretty sure you don't like it up the butt! :lol:) Staggered formation gives people, especially a newb like me, more time to stop/react. Not a criticism, guess it just made me feel safer, staggered.

Anyway if I'm wrong please correct me Maha or the like..

Yeah, I understand staggered - as I said I forgot! Just trying to say sorry. (I may have noticed one person who didn't do staggered 1/2 the time (not bosslady) but I digress) And I was trying to not to start the debate (which has been covered extensively before) up again. :Oops:

Staggered formation is good for groups as it allows the group to ride closer, and not get split up. As Blueninja mentioned you can also see in front of the rider in front of you, and be better able to react to anything coming at them. If you have reduced the gap to one second (two seconds from the bike immediately in front of you) you have almost no reaction time to anything strange the rider one second away does, and you have also limited your options as you can't swerve in one direction as easily to avoid things.

There are pros and cons. I am in two minds over if it's a good thing. It was chosen for this ride and worked well. 'nuff said.

Cornering technique is something else hotly debated. I am always open to modifying my riding style to make it better and safer. It was pointed out to me that I was taking a bit much of an inside line (which is something I am aware I need to work on) however I think taking a wide outside line on a left corner is also unsafe. It leaves you in the head-on danger zone for too much of the corner. If a car cuts the corner you are doomed. I understand that taking a tight inside line is no good if the corner tightens on you as you don't have to room to maneuver. (we were going slow enough that that wasn't an issue, but if we were going faster it might have been) I started using the middle (between the car tracks) on the lefts, and felt that was the best of both worlds. I also began to take rights wider, which actually felt better (long sweeping rights have always been my bane).

bluninja

13th February 2013, 08:14

Remember ... sheep don't stay in their own lane. Never expect to see all things on/in/on the side of the road in front of the rider AHEAD of you. Your eyesight is not that good.

Sheep? Bah! It's the Spanish inquisition I worry about :cool:

and for your information my eyesight is that good....I can see through truck and trailer units and round sharp bends :eek:

bosslady

13th February 2013, 08:22

Cornering technique is something else hotly debated. I am always open to modifying my riding style to make it better and safer. It was pointed out to me that I was taking a bit much of an inside line (which is something I am aware I need to work on) however I think taking a wide outside line on a left corner is also unsafe. It leaves you in the head-on danger zone for too much of the corner. If a car cuts the corner you are doomed. I understand that taking a tight inside line is no good if the corner tightens on you as you don't have to room to maneuver. (we were going slow enough that that wasn't an issue, but if we were going faster it might have been) I started using the middle (between the car tracks) on the lefts, and felt that was the best of both worlds. I also began to take rights wider, which actually felt better (long sweeping rights have always been my bane).

What I've bolded - wtf does that mean? Clearly it wasn't me that said that, cause I don't know what that is :laugh:

As for me, I am sure my lines, or whatever are prob f*cked, hard to know if they are or not though because how would I know if I am doing it wrong when I don't know what I'm doing in the first place, haha. I probably need to go out with my mentor and get that sorted a bit better.

The only thing I noticed apart from the staggered thing was when I was following directly behind you at some corners you probably braked a bit hard, because it was hard to see around the corner to know how sharp it was, I think. I was never going to hit you, because of my following distance, but I probably might have if I wasn't paying attention and noticed that was happening. But.. wth am I to say anything really, few months ago I didn't even know how to turn on a bike hahahhaha

Very pretty bike though arcane, was super jealous when we stopped wherever that was at Awakino Gorge, dunno about where you have to keep your feet at the front though, do you find that wierd?

nerrrd

13th February 2013, 08:41

Sheep? Bah! It's the Spanish inquisition I worry about :cool:

I got that! :lol:

arcane12

13th February 2013, 09:01

What I've bolded - wtf does that mean? Clearly it wasn't me that said that, cause I don't know what that is :laugh:

As for me, I am sure my lines, or whatever are prob f*cked, hard to know if they are or not though because how would I know if I am doing it wrong when I don't know what I'm doing in the first place, haha. I probably need to go out with my mentor and get that sorted a bit better.

The only thing I noticed apart from the staggered thing was when I was following directly behind you at some corners you probably braked a bit hard, because it was hard to see around the corner to know how sharp it was, I think. I was never going to hit you, because of my following distance, but I probably might have if I wasn't paying attention and noticed that was happening. But.. wth am I to say anything really, few months ago I didn't even know how to turn on a bike hahahhaha

Very pretty bike though arcane, was super jealous when we stopped wherever that was at Awakino Gorge, dunno about where you have to keep your feet at the front though, do you find that wierd?

inside line - (racing line) being tight to the inside of the corner, reduces the lean required, but limits options if the corner changes. On the way back I was taking it easy over the mountain as I was worried about that rear tyre. It's booked in for Saturday, though maybe I should take a picture to make all those finger wavers frown at me!

I mostly did my corners at the same speed as the person infront of me, though I have been experimenting with a little extra break pre-corner so I can use more gas through/coming out of the corner without running up the next guys ass ;)

bosslady

13th February 2013, 09:19

I mostly did my corners at the same speed as the person infront of me, though I have been experimenting with a little extra break pre-corner so I can use more gas through/coming out of the corner without running up the next guys ass ;)

I seem to use my engine braking a fair bit/changing down a gear, depending on how sharp the corner is... my brakes are so shit house I'm not scared to use them if/when I have to but hate to rely on them to slow me down esp on a sharp corner cause they're so SHIT. I wonder how much better the brakes are on other bikes I hear my bike not so great.

arcane12

13th February 2013, 09:37

bluninja

13th February 2013, 09:43

I seem to use my engine braking a fair bit/changing down a gear, depending on how sharp the corner is... my brakes are so shit house I'm not scared to use them if/when I have to but hate to rely on them to slow me down esp on a sharp corner cause they're so SHIT. I wonder how much better the brakes are on other bikes I hear my bike not so great.

So do you go all the way down to first for an emergency stop? :lol:

When I was a learner I was told egines are much more expensive to replace than brake pads. Use brakes to slow you down and select the right gear to drive on with.

Remember "Slow in Fast out"? Finish braking before the corner...if you are too slow you just get to accelerate faster on the way out...if you are too fast and the corner tightens then you will develop tight buttocks and start wearing brown undies.

Gremlin

13th February 2013, 10:18

Cornering technique is something else hotly debated. I am always open to modifying my riding style to make it better and safer. It was pointed out to me that I was taking a bit much of an inside line (which is something I am aware I need to work on) however I think taking a wide outside line on a left corner is also unsafe. It leaves you in the head-on danger zone for too much of the corner. If a car cuts the corner you are doomed. I understand that taking a tight inside line is no good if the corner tightens on you as you don't have to room to maneuver. (we were going slow enough that that wasn't an issue, but if we were going faster it might have been) I started using the middle (between the car tracks) on the lefts, and felt that was the best of both worlds. I also began to take rights wider, which actually felt better (long sweeping rights have always been my bane).
In advanced riding, positioning is a corner stone. Going into a right hander you are on the left side of the lane, and vice versa for a left hander.

While in left handers it puts you closer to the centre line (and corner cutters), you are increasing your visibility around the corner, and also oncoming vehicles will see you sooner. Now, this might not stop the corner cutter (but it gets a lot changing their line quick smart) but it also gives you options and time. It's very easy to dive into the corner from the outside position when you see an oncoming car, giving yourself more room. The corner is only apexed (if it's apexed) once the exit is sited.

As for reasoning the middle is better, the point is moot. In the middle there is a higher chance of moss and debris, while in the wheel tracks it could be worn. I've even had it where the centre was more worn than the wheel tracks, as they had been scraped to get rid of the bleed. Naturally, the single most important thing is safety, so your position could be dictated by the road surface.

It's not something I would get newbies doing right away, as they need to get bike handling down first... but there you go.

Maha

13th February 2013, 13:49

inside line - (racing line) being tight to the inside of the corner, reduces the lean required, but limits options if the corner changes. On the way back I was taking it easy over the mountain as I was worried about that rear tyre. It's booked in for Saturday, though maybe I should take a picture to make all those finger wavers frown at me!

I mostly did my corners at the same speed as the person infront of me, though I have been experimenting with a little extra break pre-corner so I can use more gas through/coming out of the corner without running up the next guys ass ;)

Thing with that is... entering a corner to soon will ensure that your exit line will be to wide, as you progress and get quicker, this will become apparent.
Its a habit that should be looked at early on and probably corrected. One of the best riders I have ever followed is MSTRS from Napier.
But you're right, the speeds we were doing at the weekend, it didn't matter.
Look at the quicker group...that whole slow slow quick quick slow foxtrot riding, and we were cruising at a constant speed arriving a few minutes after them...:lol:

How we ride is very much a personal thing, if we all rode the same way, there would be bugger all to talk about.
Overall, myself (and everyone else it would seem) was very happy with everyone else on the ride.
The few 'Ride Rules' I have are there for the safety reasons, if anything (god forbid) was to go pear shaped, the finger would get pointed me as the ride organiser.
We are not mentors, nor do we set out to ''mentor'' riders. However, there is enough experience (within the group normally) to offer some good and stern advice.

Grashopper

13th February 2013, 14:47

Thing with that is... entering a corner to soon will ensure that your exit line will be to wide

Thank you for that explanation Mark. That explains how I ended up on the bobbly bits in a corner at the Taupo track.

Look at the quicker group...that whole slow slow quick quick slow foxtrot riding, and we were cruising at a constant speed arriving a few minutes after them...:lol:

It helped that we organised a lorry to slow them down as they arrived at the fun bits :msn-wink:

nadroj

13th February 2013, 16:21

However, there is enough experience (within the group normally) to offer some good and stern advice.

Mom gave me some advice........

Maha

13th February 2013, 16:36

Mom gave me some advice........

........and, did you take it?...:cool:

nadroj

13th February 2013, 16:45

........and, did you take it?...:cool:

Very personally!

FJRider

13th February 2013, 17:08

Sheep? Bah! It's the Spanish inquisition I worry about :cool:

and for your information my eyesight is that good....I can see through truck and trailer units and round sharp bends :eek:

The staggered formation is good with experienced riders ... and with groups of motorcycles well capable of sitting on or above the speed limit. (on most roads) And keeping the same lines on the road.

On bikes less capable (and riders less experienced) ... speeds below the speed limit .... it's not so great. At some stage ... other vehicles will want past (with varying degrees of urgency). A group of bikes staggered along the road at less than the normal flow of traffic becomes an effective moving road block (in official terms, this is impeding the normal flow of traffic and liable for a ticket).

Other motorists that want to travel faster than the group ... will sometimes pass one or two riders (or more), before waiting until it is clear enough to pass (or not ... and pass anyway). And usually tailgating the one they want past. With some ... patience is not "evident". About one in five will show signs of "anger" ... and about one in five of those "angry" ones ... will be downright dangerous.

And no matter how good your eyesight is ... it wont save you from them.

Sticking hard and fast to instructions to keep the staggered formation ... with a two second spacing (or less) at 95 km/hr (or less) means road rage is not only possible ... it's inevitable. I bet some of the group has experienced it already. And probably claiming ... "It wasn't my fault" ...

FJRider

13th February 2013, 17:40

I seem to use my engine braking a fair bit/changing down a gear, depending on how sharp the corner is... my brakes are so shit house I'm not scared to use them if/when I have to but hate to rely on them to slow me down esp on a sharp corner cause they're so SHIT. I wonder how much better the brakes are on other bikes I hear my bike not so great.

There is no real reason why you shouldn't use engine braking. With just coming off the throttle means less wear on the brake pads and effective slowing. And it wont hurt the engine. And less chance of locking up the wheels if it is still in gear (almost like ABS) .... even under emergency braking using front and rear brakes. Leave it IN gear until you are almost stopped .... then clutch in until just before you do stop ... If stopping IS needed. It IS effective and well worth practicing. Then you can click down to neutral,(or as you are still rolling) or 1st, 2nd, or 3rd gear if your speed allows) if you want to (can ???) continue.

The more times you use the brakes ... the more fuel you waste. And the more often you replace the pads. (Check out the price of a set)

bluninja

13th February 2013, 17:43

The staggered formation is good with experienced riders ... and with groups of motorcycles well capable of sitting on or above the speed limit. (on most roads) And keeping the same lines on the road.

On bikes less capable (and riders less experienced) ... speeds below the speed limit .... it's not so great. At some stage ... other vehicles will want past (with varying degrees of urgency). A group of bikes staggered along the road at less than the normal flow of traffic becomes an effective moving road block (in official terms, this is impeding the normal flow of traffic and liable for a ticket).

Other motorists that want to travel faster than the group ... will sometimes pass one or two riders (or more), before waiting until it is clear enough to pass (or not ... and pass anyway). And usually tailgating the one they want past. With some ... patience is not "evident". About one in five will show signs of "anger" ... and about one in five of those "angry" ones ... will be downright dangerous.

And no matter how good your eyesight is ... it wont save you from them.

Sticking hard and fast to instructions to keep the staggered formation ... with a two second spacing (or less) at 95 km/hr (or less) means road rage is not only possible ... it's inevitable. I bet some of the group has experienced it already. And probably claiming ... "It wasn't my fault" ...

I'm now not sure what point you are trying to make.
First it was "don't do staggered, keep the 2 second rule" now it's "sticking to a zigzag with a 2 second rule is dangerous cos it pisses other road users off when you are doing 95 kmh or less". The ride states that people should be capable of riding at open road speeds...no 95 kmh limit...you made that up.

As for eyesight saving me from angry drivers, presumably behind me...here's a clue...I use my eyes to look in the MIRRORS. I observe their closing speed and how close to me (or other road users behind me) they get and plan how I will deal with them when they move from potential hazard to hazard.

Do you want me to send you a short ruler to measure your dick length ?

Maha

13th February 2013, 17:48

*: Each Group Leader will control the group speed (80-100)
:There Will Be No Passing Within Each Group
:The Use Of Mirrors is Paramount in a Group Ride Situation, Please use Them…Always
:Watch Your Following Distances With The Bike In Front, That Person is Your Friend.
:Please try and stay within 5-6 bike lengths with the bike in front of you.
:Staggered Formation Where Possible (no single file on the straight bits)
:If a car is bothering you in any way, indicate left and slow (where it’s safe to do so) and wave them passed.
:But ultimately, have a way cool time.

*The speed of group one is up to the leader of that group.

The staggered formation is good with experienced riders ... and with groups of motorcycles well capable of sitting on or above the speed limit. (on most roads) And keeping the same lines on the road.

On bikes less capable (and riders less experienced) ... speeds below the speed limit .... it's not so great. At some stage ... other vehicles will want past (with varying degrees of urgency). A group of bikes staggered along the road at less than the normal flow of traffic becomes an effective moving road block (in official terms, this is impeding the normal flow of traffic and liable for a ticket).

Other motorists that want to travel faster than the group ... will sometimes pass one or two riders (or more), before waiting until it is clear enough to pass (or not ... and pass anyway). And usually tailgating the one they want past. With some ... patience is not "evident". About one in five will show signs of "anger" ... and about one in five of those "angry" ones ... will be downright dangerous.

And no matter how good your eyesight is ... it wont save you from them.

Sticking hard and fast to instructions to keep the staggered formation ... with a two second spacing (or less) at 95 km/hr (or less) means road rage is not only possible ... it's inevitable. I bet some of the group has experienced it already. And probably claiming ... "It wasn't my fault" ...

Did ya miss the part on what to do when that situation arises Trev?
Even when a slower rider is on thier own, and a car can't pass, the ''one in five that will show signs of anger'' will still do so...IE: I do when I am trapped behind a campervan while driving the car.
I have to actually see the 'slow and wave them pass' happen (maybe it has, I dont know) and the other point on ''mirror use'' assists in this matter. All I can do is spell it out and hope it gets taken on board and implimented were needed.

FJRider

13th February 2013, 17:58

I'm now not sure what point you are trying to make.
First it was "don't do staggered, keep the 2 second rule" now it's "sticking to a zigzag with a 2 second rule is dangerous cos it pisses other road users off when you are doing 95 kmh or less". The ride states that people should be capable of riding at open road speeds...no 95 kmh limit...you made that up.

Aside from the fact I never said there was a 95 km LIMIT ... I stated it was often the limited ability (of some) to keep at 100 km/hr. As I said in an earlier post ... the only thing safer than a two second gap is a three second gap. Riding staggered limits lines through corners. (or they slow more in the corners)

As for eyesight saving me from angry drivers, presumably behind me...here's a clue...I use my eyes to look in the MIRRORS. I observe their closing speed and how close to me (or other road users behind me) they get and plan how I will deal with them when they move from potential hazard to hazard.

Your eys wont tell you always what they're going to do next.

Do you want me to send you a short ruler to measure your dick length ?

It will need to be bigger than YOUR two inch one ...

Mom

13th February 2013, 18:05

The staggered formation is good with experienced riders ... and with groups of motorcycles well capable of sitting on or above the speed limit. (on most roads) And keeping the same lines on the road.

...

Really, you should probably come on one of these rides Trev. You are so off base with these comments it is not funny. We dont ride at 60kph. The expectation is highway speed and frankly I was sometimes at WAY faster than that at the back. Sitting at the back it is really cool to see all the bikes well spaced out (2,3,4 sec rules apply) in a really nice staggered formation. Come a right hander, every one moves left at there own pace and at a line that suits and around they go. Back into the nice staggered formation on the straight bits, reverse this for the left handers. Seems to work for us. Your input may frankly confuse some of our really new riders.

FJRider

13th February 2013, 18:06

Did ya miss the part on what to do when that situation arises Trev?

It just worries me than some that are less experienced, are keen to follow the instructions ... and forget ... or don't understand the other options. (and exceptions)

There's been plenty of threads on/about people having issues about tailgating motorists wanting past ... and not. (for whatever reason)

Grant`

13th February 2013, 18:25

It just worries me than some that are less experienced, are keen to follow the instructions ... and forget ... or don't understand the other options. (and exceptions)

There's been plenty of threads on/about people having issues about tailgating motorists wanting past ... and not. (for whatever reason)

Problem is you tell them nothing they dont know, you tell them to much they can forget or get it wrong...

So give them the basics so everyone on the same page and then let them ride there bikes and use there own brains to decide how to handle everything else .. i know some people struggle with thinking for themselves.. But unless you ride the bike for them you just have to trust that they can look after themselves and use there own judgement.

bluninja

13th February 2013, 18:29

Sticking hard and fast to instructions to keep the staggered formation ... with a two second spacing (or less) at 95 km/hr (or less) means road rage is not only possible ... it's inevitable. I bet some of the group has experienced it already. And probably claiming ... "It wasn't my fault" ...

Here ya go...only a few posts ago, but you seem to have trouble remembering things you've posted. Implicit within the context of this thread is that there is a 95 kmh (or less) speed on the groups. And had you remembered some of what was posted, you would have seen that some people had issues with cars wishing to overtake, and were given advice and clarification.

Sadly you can't just cram experience into peoples heads, all you can do is hope that people like Maha and Mom are around to help gain the right sort of experience in a supportive environment.

As for 2 inches....I prefer 50.8mm myself...sounds so much bigger.....that would make it 160mm girth :niceone:

Maha

13th February 2013, 18:40

Problem is you tell them nothing they dont know, you tell them to much they can forget or get it wrong...

So give them the basics so everyone on the same page and then let them ride there bikes and use there own brains to decide how to handle everything else .. i know some people struggle with thinking for themselves.. But unless you ride the bike for them you just have to trust that they can look after themselves and use there own judgement.

Exactly right Grant.
I once put together a ride on the Auckland motorway system, there were about 350 bikes, all in staggered formation and all without incident.
Larger group rides use that method, and it works just as well, if not better, with a small group.
The slower group at the weekend had 6-7 bikes?..the other 13-14 bikes were out in front somewhere riding however they wanted to.

bosslady

13th February 2013, 18:56

for the record... I don't think I had trouble keeping up at all and I wasn't even trying so hard so as to stress myself out... I felt safe.

arcane12

13th February 2013, 19:15

Hey everyone, look at this!

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sME1GbPNX8E/Td-4Rnbo28I/AAAAAAAAAOU/zEEfvZ4lsLg/s1600/distractions.jpg

newhere

13th February 2013, 21:54

Im disappointed to see this kind of drama in the L's Angel's threads. Everyone is their own free person some chose to come on these awesome rides and others dont. Either way to me it makes sense to have some rules to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone who does attend.

Many many many people, including myself love, respect and trust Maha and Mom, so I think it would be more appropriate to discuss any issues or confusion felt with THEM directly so to limit the potential for any misunderstandings and avoid this type of MASSIVE TEACUP STORM. :crazy:

cc rider

14th February 2013, 00:39

Ok a few beers and a few wines, six of us here and some are talking about a 6am walk in the morning! :confused:
CC Rider is a real good pillion and she'll will be looking to bike swap tomorrow if anyone can offer up a seat...:scooter:Was great fun to share laughs & gud food together. Great way to get to know a few in the crew.
Mark thanks for first leg... or cheek of the ride. :cool:

I volunteer as tribute. Besides if the bike doesn't break with two people on, then I'm all good.A generous offering... with slight alterior motive :msn-wink:
Really enjoyed the company.
A very smooth, safe ride. Am impressed with your level of road craft Doogle.

Home now, all safe and sound. Then do some research on suspension spring rates......Factor in weight of pillion. Check for any rear end vibration too :lol:

cc rider

14th February 2013, 01:18

Good trip (as always :sunny:).Thankyou again Hayden to you & your folks for the bed for the night. Your folks are so :cool: Say Hi to lil sister for me.

... We took a break, CC put her silk jammies on as I think she was feeling a bit cold. I threw liners into my gear, clear visor and winter gloves, all ready for the night run to Pukie. A guy on a Triumph Trident stopped for gas, heading to Hampton Downs for the classic festival.

I think CC was getting tired towards the end as I could feel her nudge into my back then shuffle backwards, several times over :laugh:

Found her bed for the night, turned Jessica towards home...

Home just after midnight, some 730km clocked up and the bike close to service interval.Thank you so much Gremlin for getting me to Pukie & my bed for the night. It was a great ride up the coastline as the sun set. Long day so was definitely time for jammies... silk is perfect for warmth. :niceone:
Those goats & flock of birds were a bit of a surprise :laugh:
Spotted another Trident (same model too) at Hampton. Awesome

If I'd had a blankie, I'd have curled up on the back seat. Jessica is a grand girl haha

See you at Paeroa

Was grouse to meet so many more KBers & friends of friends. I had such a Fab day.
Mark & Anne... big :love:

insomnia01

14th February 2013, 07:01

bosslady

14th February 2013, 07:04

this WILL be an interesting thread to keep an eye on Trev !! :niceone: I hear what's been said & would been keen to ride with this grp to see for myself how things pan out, it seems in a way the newbies have alot to say/suggest without enough time in the saddle for my liking, NEK MINIT :( experiance & time will tell...... PS Any newbies done a ULYSSES RIDE ? check it out

Doesn't make what we have to say any less true/worth hearing. Besides, who determines how much is enough saddle time before you're allowed to express your opinions or thoughts? I'm pretty careful not to say too much for that reason though, don't want people thinking I'm an over confident know-it-all. Cause I'm not... confident that is... or a know it all (wow, did a woman just say that?) :lol:

nathanwhite

14th February 2013, 07:12

Hey everyone, look at this!

Relevant:

http://www.demotivationalposters.org/image/demotivational-poster/small/0902/accidents-accidents-hot-motorcycle-demotivational-poster-1234374170.jpg

nathanwhite

14th February 2013, 07:15

A generous offering... with slight alterior motive :msn-wink:
Really enjoyed the company.
A very smooth, safe ride. Am impressed with your level of road craft Doogle.
Factor in weight of pillion. Check for any rear end vibration too :lol:

Thank you for being a great test subject. :niceone: It was a plesant ride for me, passed quite quickly.

Also where's all the footage you took?

bosslady

14th February 2013, 07:32

Also where's all the footage you took?

I second that!!

Katman

14th February 2013, 07:42

PS Any newbies done a ULYSSES RIDE ? check it out

I wouldn't go painting Ulysses rides as any sort of glowing example.

I've heard of plenty of stupidity on them.

Grant`

14th February 2013, 08:14

this WILL be an interesting thread to keep an eye on Trev !! :niceone: I hear what's been said & would been keen to ride with this grp to see for myself how things pan out, it seems in a way the newbies have alot to say/suggest without enough time in the saddle for my liking, NEK MINIT :( experiance & time will tell...... PS Any newbies done a ULYSSES RIDE ? check it out

In all fairness some of the ulysses riders are the worst fucking riders i have ever seen, possibly it is some of the people they attract on their rides.

oops i see katman bet me to it.

bluninja

14th February 2013, 08:53

I went on a Ulysses ride....once.....seeing the guy in front misjudge the corner and fly up a dirtpath doing an emergency stop isn't a good memory. The L's angels were controlled and skillful in comparison to some of the riders I saw that day 11 years ago.

insomnia01

14th February 2013, 09:14

I wouldn't go painting Ulysses rides as any sort of glowing example.

I've heard of plenty of stupidity on them.

I Dont recall using them as a GLOWING EXAMPLE just asking the question

In all fairness some of the ulysses riders are the worst fucking riders i have ever seen, possibly it is some of the people they attract on their rides.

oops i see katman bet me to it.

Same again Grant, just asking the Question, plenty of other grps that bring the same sort of people

I went on a Ulysses ride....once.....seeing the guy in front misjudge the corner and fly up a dirtpath doing an emergency stop isn't a good memory. The L's angels were controlled and skillful in comparison to some of the riders I saw that day 11 years ago.

11years ago :eek: 1 would hope things have changed

Seems this topic has struck a nerve with some, DONT f*&*K WITH THE L'S ANGELS :headbang::headbang: where's the mormon few when you need a laugh