06/02/14 - 09/02/14 (4 days, 3 nights) Waikato/ BOP/ Hawke's Bay/ Gisborne

[bosslady]

Nerrrd and I are planning a wee road trip that will start on Thursday 6th February (Waitangi Day) in Auckland and end in Auckland on Sunday 9th February. You know how the saying goes, the more the merrier! So, if anyone is interested in riding some or all of it, or just whatever really, let us know! Note however that the roads leading into and out of Lake Waikaremoana (Days 2 & 3) are gravel. We don't have a heap of experience in gravel so we'll be taking it slow, but please don't come on this part of the trip if you're already sh#*ting bricks at the mere thought of it! We'll be taking it relatively easy and neither of us are exactly speed demons so while there won't be too much pressure you should be good enough to keep up with us snails going the speed limit etc.

We're planning on camping for the first 2 nights and perhaps renting a cabin for the third. We've put together a rough itinerary so far (see below) though there's still a bit to be confirmed. The time guidelines are exactly that, guidelines, so don't take them as gospel etc. Have posted a map from google below, hopefully it's showing up!

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<small>View Larger Map (https://maps.google.co.nz/maps?f=d&source=embed&saddr=Autobahn+Cafe+Papakura,+State+Highway+1,+Pap akura,+Auckland&daddr=-37.2381887,174.9590455+to:raglan+to:-38.1836685,175.1947874+to:-38.286599,175.3769907+to:mangakino+to:Rotorua+Ther mal+Holiday+Park,+Rotorua,+Bay+Of+Plenty+to:Murupa ra,+Bay+Of+Plenty+to:Lake+Waikaremoana+Motorcamp,+ Urewera+National+Park,+Hawke's+Bay+to:Gisborne+to: Matawai,+Gisborne+to:Ohiwa+Beach+Holiday+Park,+Ohi wa+Harbour+Road,+Kutarere,+Bay+Of+Plenty+to:-37.9675157,177.0168746+to:Katikati,+Bay+Of+Plenty+ to:Waikino+Station+Cafe,+Waikino,+Waikato+to:Autob ahn+Cafe+Papakura,+State+Highway+1,+Papakura+2113&geocode=FSUWyv0d5lxtCiFaWd5V_dO0_ymtwE-651INbTFaWd5V_dO0_w%3BFVTKx_0dxaltCinPggUB31RtbTEZ qOLk_B75Ag%3BFUIyv_0d8lRsCiltiPYZoSoTbTFQ_KJDYe8AB Q%3BFQxduf0do0JxCik3bdB01MBsbTFQ1poGYe8AEw%3BFfnKt _0dXgp0Cil51EeelJNsbTFggpsGYe8AEw%3BFSeLtv0dlhp6Ci m3Ihp5RnlsbTHA3aJDYe8ABQ%3BFRyquf0d80WBCiHjd9gbzEY QhimpMBKfTydsbTHjd9gbzEYQhg%3BFZMptf0dqT6ICimzlM6p m89ubTEA6KJDYe8ABQ%3BFROqsP0dWyyPCiHclqpspZAZMilHY CceT89obTHclqpspZAZMg%3BFUIPsv0dcVWcCimXrLBBnMBlbT EHmaJDYe8ABQ%3BFci2tv0dM_qUCim7wc6gOlpvbTFQ4qJDYe8 ABQ%3BFTdRvP0dV0WPCiG9Xr9nJ6UEZCn7S8JvygtvbTG9Xr9n J6UEZA%3BFWWpvP0dKhCNCiknRkpSCgdvbTHB0PEGYe8AEw%3B FdYAw_0di1J8Cik13RTytuptbTGQ06JDYe8ABQ%3BFcQcxf0dg y16CiGPBi0ikjjgKSktHbzQEpBtbTGPBi0ikjjgKQ%3BFSUWyv 0d5lxtCiFaWd5V_dO0_ymtwE-651INbTFaWd5V_dO0_w&aq=2&oq=lake+waikaremoana&sll=-38.022131,176.445923&sspn=3.600138,5.778809&hl=en&mra=ls&via=1,3,4,12&ie=UTF8&t=m&dirflg=d&ll=-38.02075,176.444717&spn=1.896518,3.145844)</small>


Day 1 (06/02/14)
Meet @ Papakura Autobahn @ 9am FUEL
Leave @ approx. 9:30am
Stop @ Raglan @ approx. 11:30am for FUEL/LUNCH (123 km's, 2 hrs)
Leave @ approx. 1pm
Stop @ Mangakino @ approx. 4pm for FUEL (311 km's, 4.5 hrs)
Stop @ Rotorua @ approx. 5pm for FUEL/DINNER/SLEEP (382km's, 5.5 hrs)
**TBC** Accommodation: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park (Camping @ $26 per night)

Day 2 (07/02/14)
Leave Rotorua @ 10:30am FUEL/BREAKFAST/BUY LUNCH(?)
Stop @ Murupara @ approx. 11:15am for FUEL (62km's, 45 mins)
Stop somewhere (?) along the way to eat LUNCH
Stop @ Lake Waikaremoana @ approx. 3pm for FUEL/DINNER/SLEEP (163 km's, 3.5 hrs)
Accommodation: Waikaremoana Holiday Park ( Camping @ $15 a night)

Day 3 (08/02/14)
Leave Lake Waikaremoana @ 10am FUEL/BREAKFAST
Stop @ Gisborne @ approx. 12:30pm for FUEL/LUNCH (144 km's, 2.5 hrs)
Leave @ approx. 2pm
Stop @ Matawai @ approx. 3pm for FUEL (215 km's, 3 hrs, 15 mins)
**TBC** Stop @ Ohiwa Beach @ approx. 4:30pm for FUEL/DINNER/SLEEP (301 km's, 4 hrs, 25 mins)
**TBC** Accommodation: Ohiwa Beach Holiday Park (Standard Cabin @ $65 for 2 adults)

Day 4 (09/02/14)
**TBC** Leave Ohiwa Beach @ approx. 9:30am
**TBC** Stop @ Katikati @ approx. 12pm for FUEL (164 km's, 2hrs, 20 mins)
Stop @ Waikino Station Cafe @ approx. 12:20pm for LUNCH (207 km's, 2 hrs, 45 mins)
Leave @ approx 1:30pm
Stop @ Papakura Autobahn @ approx. 2:45pm FUEL/GOODBYE!!! (303 km's, 4 hrs)


Like I said, the more the merrier we'd love for one or even a few people to come along :2thumbsup

[insomnia01]

Cool Loop !!! no doubt you'll have fun :banana:

[bosslady]

Cool Loop !!! no doubt you'll have fun :banana:
Here's hoping! Looking forward to finally making it to Lake Waikaremoana.

[skippa1]

The road in and out of Waikaremoana isn't just any old gravel road......you know that don't you? It's a prick of a road even in a modern 4x4 and goes on forever.

[nerrrd]

The road in and out of Waikaremoana isn't just any old gravel road......you know that don't you? It's a prick of a road even in a modern 4x4 and goes on forever.

Yeah we've heard but sometimes it's hard to know just how bad it is from reading about it; basically that's why we've allowed a whole day more or less to get to the lake from Rotorua.

Thanks for the heads up. :niceone:

[Gremlin]

The road in and out of Waikaremoana isn't just any old gravel road......you know that don't you? It's a prick of a road even in a modern 4x4 and goes on forever.
:scratch: I was last there mid 2012, I thought it was a great road (obviously don't make it your first gravel road). Went from Taupo in the morning, down SH5 through the forest (name escapes me) and on to Matawai by evening. Found it a little slippery where the surface wasn't much more than smooth mud, mainly at the Waikaremoana end but otherwise, it's a great ride.

Enjoy

[skippa1]

:scratch: I was last there mid 2012, I thought it was a great road (obviously don't make it your first gravel road). Went from Taupo in the morning, down SH5 through the forest (name escapes me) and on to Matawai by evening. Found it a little slippery where the surface wasn't much more than smooth mud, mainly at the Waikaremoana end but otherwise, it's a great ride.

Enjoy

I travel that road quite a bit when deer stalking. It is long, tedious, gets rutted pretty often and you have to look out for everything from horses and pigs to locals driving shirt heap cars too fast once you leave Murupara. Nice scenery. Entirely their call but I wouldn't choose it at Bossladys level of experience.

just sayin

[skippa1]

I travel that road quite a bit when deer stalking. It is long, tedious, gets rutted pretty often and you have to look out for everything from horses and pigs to locals driving shirt heap cars too fast once you leave Murupara. Nice scenery. Entirely their call but I wouldn't choose it at Bossladys level of experience.

just sayin

Actually cancel that shit I just said. Go for it. Life is for living. I have taken my nana dress off now...

[bluninja]

Yeah we've heard but sometimes it's hard to know just how bad it is from reading about it; basically that's why we've allowed a whole day more or less to get to the lake from Rotorua.

Thanks for the heads up. :niceone:

Just noticed you've changed your bike......did the 90 mile beach ride really get you hooked on off road stuff?

[leathel]

I will join you for the first bit ..... If my parts arrive in time, My new Shocks failed and dropped there oil so have replacements coming.

I will have to see where and when I need to be for the next ride I am on to see when I split off :)

[nerrrd]

Just noticed you've changed your bike......did the 90 mile beach ride really get you hooked on off road stuff?

Bike was more of an xmas present to myself, been keeping quiet cos I'm a bit embarrassed at the extravagance of it all frankly :o ...Having said that it's lighter, got a bigger tank, a chain and pretend adventure tyres, so probably more suited to off road than the Beemer. But really it's basically another commuter.

And yeah I loved every bit of the 90 mile beach run so I'm keen for more!

[bluninja]

Just looked up a pic of the bike...looks nice. Enjoy it and don't be embarrassed that you've bought a Honda :bleh:

[bosslady]

I travel that road quite a bit when deer stalking. It is long, tedious, gets rutted pretty often and you have to look out for everything from horses and pigs to locals driving shirt heap cars too fast once you leave Murupara. Nice scenery. Entirely their call but I wouldn't choose it at Bossladys level of experience.

just sayin

What is my level of experience?

And anyway, as Nerrrd said, that's precisely why we have allowed a whole day to get there, so as to not feel too pressured about it.

[BigAl]

Just make sure you've got that back brake adjusted;)

[skippa1]

What is my level of experience?

And anyway, as Nerrrd said, that's precisely why we have allowed a whole day to get there, so as to not feel too pressured about it.

You are new to bikes....you haven't been riding that long and only got your current bike recently

[bosslady]

You are new to bikes....you haven't been riding that long and only got your current bike recently
Is five months ago still recent?

[skippa1]

Is five months ago still recent?

Yes

10char

[skippa1]

Is five months ago still recent?

In fact on the 23rd of September ( three and a half months ago) you posted,

I still consider myself a newbie and anyway was wondering if anyone else, also a newbie, has recently upgraded to a bigger / better bike. What did you move from and to? Why did you choose that bike and how long did it take you to get used to it, or how are you finding it? And how long did you have your first bike?

[bosslady]

Good story. Are you finished? At the end of the day I'm going to do whatever I want irrespective of what others think. THE END.

[Katman]

Entirely their call but I wouldn't choose it at Bossladys level of experience.


Seriously man, that even out-patronises my most patronising comment ever.

[skippa1]

Seriously man, that even out-patronises my most patronising comment ever.

Can I use that in my signature?

[nerrrd]

....and only got your current bike recently

Me too! Actually I'll only have a month on mine...uh oh I'd better follow you :crazy:.

[bluninja]

Me too! Actually I'll only have a month on mine...uh oh I'd better follow you :crazy:.

You only want to look at her bum without being obvious :bleh: I still have some red rag and tape if you want to mount your camera to video your ride :rolleyes: Have lots of fun, I'm sure you will.

[nerrrd]

You only want to look at her bum without being obvious :bleh: I still have some red rag and tape if you want to mount your camera to video your ride :rolleyes: Have lots of fun, I'm sure you will.

Disappointingly I think her rack will be in the way...luggage rack that is :innocent:. BL's got a GoPro so she can film my bum if she likes (although I reckon your set up is better ;) ).

[Monkfish]

I reckon the comment regarding Bosslady's experience is absolutely unfounded and based on generalizations and assumptions.

Hell I've only been riding a year, previous experience of absolutely zero, and according to assumptions made on newbie riders I should not undertake that Road also.

But people don't know that I have a driveway approx 850 mtrs long entirely off road. A mixture of loose gravel, dirt and slag. it has substantial rise and fall and comes complete with a tight, off camber, 90deg bend.
I ride about 1.6ks of off-road stuff every day on my LS650, (cruiser) and can take my drive with the arse out at around 40-50 ks an hour. Granted that is because I know it so well, However I definitely feel comfortable on any dirt road.
this means that I have more off road experience on my little cruiser than many do on their adventure tourers.

Point being. One cant make claims that, one is not qualified to make on the skill set of another rider.

[insomnia01]

I recall reading BossLady's blogs from when her & Grasshopper ? toured on their Gn's, she has ( i'm sure ) gained some experiance of touring & as long as she & her riding partner put in some time studying the ride they will be ok. Hell I know who some chaps that have years of riding experiance that have come to grief on less troubling roads..... give the chick the :niceone: for giving it a go, GO BOSSLADY!!!! :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

[skippa1]

I reckon the comment regarding Bosslady's experience is absolutely unfounded and based on generalizations and assumptions.

Hell I've only been riding a year, previous experience of absolutely zero, and according to assumptions made on newbie riders I should not undertake that Road also.

But people don't know that I have a driveway approx 850 mtrs long entirely off road. A mixture of loose gravel, dirt and slag. it has substantial rise and fall and comes complete with a tight, off camber, 90deg bend.
I ride about 1.6ks of off-road stuff every day on my LS650, (cruiser) and can take my drive with the arse out at around 40-50 ks an hour. Granted that is because I know it so well, However I definitely feel comfortable on any dirt road.
this means that I have more off road experience on my little cruiser than many do on their adventure tourers.

Point being. One cant make claims that, one is not qualified to make on the skill set of another rider.

What a load of shit. No assumptions, no generalisations. Fact. she said it.....quote " I still consider myself a newbie"

[Madness]

What a load of shit. No assumptions, no generalisations. Fact. she said it.....quote " I still consider myself a newbie"

So she should stay at home & look out to her bike in the garage from the kitchen window? Fuck off.

Have a blast BL. I'd be more worried about the natives than a bit of gravel.

[skippa1]

Also a load of shit, if you read my previous comment, I said,

Actually cancel that shit I just said. Go for it. Life is for living. I have taken my nana dress off now...


So she should stay at home & look out to her bike in the garage from the kitchen window? Fuck off.

Have a blast BL. I'd be more worried about the natives than a bit of gravel.

Read the whole thing

[Madness]

Also a load of shit, if you read my previous comment, I said,




Read the whole thing

I did read the whole thing. It seemed to me that you were simply back-peddling after you realised that nobody else was going to jump on your patronising chauvinistic bandwagon. And to think just the other day I was contemplating taking you off ignore :lol:

I stand by my previous statement. Fuck off.

[skippa1]

I did read the whole thing. It seemed to me that you were simply back-peddling after you realised that nobody else was going to jump on your patronising chauvinistic bandwagon. And to think just the other day I was contemplating taking you off ignore :lol:

I stand by my previous statement. Fuck off.

I back peddled before anyone commented, in fact a few minutes after my original comment. Put me on ignore, I don't want queer cunts like you anywhere near me anyway

[Madness]

I back peddled before anyone commented, in fact a few minutes after my original comment. Put me on ignore, I don't want queer cunts like you anywhere near me anyway

You've been on ignore for months, all by your lonesome. Cock.

[skippa1]

You've been on ignore for months, all by your lonesome. Cock.

Well it must be broken....loser

[nerrrd]

So, just to restate the original idea for this thread...here's Bosslady's post again:

Nerrrd and I are planning a wee road trip that will start on Thursday 6th February (Waitangi Day) in Auckland and end in Auckland on Sunday 9th February. You know how the saying goes, the more the merrier! So, if anyone is interested in riding some or all of it, or just whatever really, let us know! Note however that the roads leading into and out of Lake Waikaremoana (Days 2 & 3) are gravel. We don't have a heap of experience in gravel so we'll be taking it slow, but please don't come on this part of the trip if you're already sh#*ting bricks at the mere thought of it! We'll be taking it relatively easy and neither of us are exactly speed demons so while there won't be too much pressure you should be good enough to keep up with us snails going the speed limit etc.

We're planning on camping for the first 2 nights and perhaps renting a cabin for the third. We've put together a rough itinerary so far (see below) though there's still a bit to be confirmed. The time guidelines are exactly that, guidelines, so don't take them as gospel etc. Have posted a map from google below, hopefully it's showing up!

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Day 1 (06/02/14)
Meet @ Papakura Autobahn @ 9am FUEL
Leave @ approx. 9:30am
Stop @ Raglan @ approx. 11:30am for FUEL/LUNCH (123 km's, 2 hrs)
Leave @ approx. 1pm
Stop @ Mangakino @ approx. 4pm for FUEL (311 km's, 4.5 hrs)
Stop @ Rotorua @ approx. 5pm for FUEL/DINNER/SLEEP (382km's, 5.5 hrs)
**TBC** Accommodation: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park (Camping @ $26 per night)

Day 2 (07/02/14)
Leave Rotorua @ 10:30am FUEL/BREAKFAST/BUY LUNCH(?)
Stop @ Murupara @ approx. 11:15am for FUEL (62km's, 45 mins)
Stop somewhere (?) along the way to eat LUNCH
Stop @ Lake Waikaremoana @ approx. 3pm for FUEL/DINNER/SLEEP (163 km's, 3.5 hrs)
Accommodation: Waikaremoana Holiday Park ( Camping @ $15 a night)

Day 3 (08/02/14)
Leave Lake Waikaremoana @ 10am FUEL/BREAKFAST
Stop @ Gisborne @ approx. 12:30pm for FUEL/LUNCH (144 km's, 2.5 hrs)
Leave @ approx. 2pm
Stop @ Matawai @ approx. 3pm for FUEL (215 km's, 3 hrs, 15 mins)
**TBC** Stop @ Ohiwa Beach @ approx. 4:30pm for FUEL/DINNER/SLEEP (301 km's, 4 hrs, 25 mins)
**TBC** Accommodation: Ohiwa Beach Holiday Park (Standard Cabin @ $65 for 2 adults)

Day 4 (09/02/14)
**TBC** Leave Ohiwa Beach @ approx. 9:30am
**TBC** Stop @ Katikati @ approx. 12pm for FUEL (164 km's, 2hrs, 20 mins)
Stop @ Waikino Station Cafe @ approx. 12:20pm for LUNCH (207 km's, 2 hrs, 45 mins)
Leave @ approx 1:30pm
Stop @ Papakura Autobahn @ approx. 2:45pm FUEL/GOODBYE!!! (303 km's, 4 hrs)


Like I said, the more the merrier we'd love for one or even a few people to come along :2thumbsup

[leathel]

Obviously this ride is too much for those experienced riders :P

[bosslady]

It seems trouble follows even if I'm not around, lol. I am sure skippa means well although I don't think it was a particularly fair or helpful comment especially when drudging up posts from months ago, totally uneccessary. And anyway how am I meant to get experience by not going out and doing things! Doesn't really make sense does it. But how about we just get back on track, this isn't about my experience or lack thereof :-)

[Grashopper]

First things first, congrats to the new bike Rodney. Are you happy with it so far? Does it handle much different to your beamer?

Love the idea of touring with you guys, but haven't done any gravel on the Spada yet, so probably not. if I still had the GN I wouldn't worry as much, lol. Maybe I'll meet up with you somewhere for a bit.

[nerrrd]

First things first, congrats to the new bike Rodney. Are you happy with it so far? Does it handle much different to your beamer?

Yeah really happy, where the f650 plodded along this one's more like an eager puppy that wants to play all the time. Feels lighter even though it's not by much, suspension feels a bit harder but the seat is much more comfy, actually sitting more upright on this but my legs do feel slightly more cramped. Engine is silky smooth by comparison, gears click more often than they clunk. Tyres are 95 % road / 5% off road but so far haven't noticed any lack of grip on the road and the whole set up felt really good on the gravel I did yesterday (shame about the rider)...I could go on ;).

[angle]

I might be able to join you for the non-gravel bits.

[The Reibz]

Stop @ Mangakino @ approx. 4pm for FUEL (311 km's, 4.5 hrs)
Stop @ Murupara @ approx. 11:15am for FUEL (62km's, 45 mins)


Two of the central north islands biggest shitholes. Add Te Kuiti to that list and your in business.
Last time I was in both those places I barely made it out alive.

Have a safe trip

[nerrrd]

I might be able to join you for the non-gravel bits.

That'd be cool.


Two of the central north islands biggest shitholes. Add Te Kuiti to that list and your in business.
Last time I was in both those places I barely made it out alive.

Have a safe trip

So long as they'll take money for gas and let us be on our way hopefully we'll be OK.

[Grashopper]

Two of the central north islands biggest shitholes. Add Te Kuiti to that list and your in business.
Hey, don't diss Te Kuiti. Bosco's cafe has great Nachos. :yes:

[The Reibz]

Did a trip down that statehighway a couple of weeks back when going from Waitomo to Taupo. Stoped at every shithole imaginable because I had 9 chaps getting on the beers in the back of the van. Te Kuiti has a good liquor store. I would stop at the caves on the way down if I was you, good way to burn off a couple of hours going black water rafting.

Theres alot of roadworks on Statehighway 30 at the moment and most of the guys working the stop go signs are from the local prison out on work experience, so stop nad have a yarn to them. Dont try and give them a codys like I did, supervisors be watching. Probably add another 30 mins just to get through. It is a nice peice of road.

Muru-spartans are a different breed. Nice straight through there where off the clock speeds are asking to be reached

[unstuck]

Sounds like a cool adventure to me, have fun. Thats the sort of trip that will give you heaps of different experiences, both on and off the bike.:2thumbsup

[arcane12]

Damn was hoping to meet up, but just checked the roster and i am on call that week. I don't think work would take kindly to me not being able to hear my cellphone. Though our travel policy states that mobile phones should be switched off while travelling...

[Mongolian]

Looks like a good ride, Sadly won't make it at this stage (not sure I have the correct bike anyways)
But might see If i can organise to meet up somewhere along the way.

Looking at your route I would recommend going back to auckland back through Rotorua rather than Tauranga, going through the Rotoma's then through the Mamaku's after Rotorua is so much more fun than driving down the long straight roads through to Tauranga.

[nerrrd]

Damn was hoping to meet up, but just checked the roster and i am on call that week. I don't think work would take kindly to me not being able to hear my cellphone. Though our travel policy states that mobile phones should be switched off while travelling...

Bummer Doug would have been great to catch up. People get away with things on technicalities all the time, don't they??


Looks like a good ride, Sadly won't make it at this stage (not sure I have the correct bike anyways)
But might see If i can organise to meet up somewhere along the way.

Looking at your route I would recommend going back to auckland back through Rotorua rather than Tauranga, going through the Rotoma's then through the Mamaku's after Rotorua is so much more fun than driving down the long straight roads through to Tauranga.

Yeah the gravel is a bit of a deal-breaker, hopefully that's the only thing it breaks for us :lol:. Thanks for the suggestion re the last day Jason, we'll see how we're feeling - a nice easy straight run home might just be what the doctor ordered by that stage :innocent:.

[bosslady]

Look what arrived yesterday in time for the trip!
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=292445&d=1389746203

[bosslady]

Bumpity bump bump

[strandedinnz]

I'll be coming along as well!

Boss at home has given me permission :-) I'll get in contact ...

[nerrrd]

Another motard! Right on! You guys will wait for me on my pretend adventure/commuter bike, won't you...sniff.

[Grashopper]

Thinking of meeting you guys for lunch in Raglan, ride back to Rotorua with you and then home. Will depend on if I have to work that day.

[strandedinnz]

Another motard! Right on! You guys will wait for me on my pretend adventure/commuter bike, won't you...sniff.

Don't worry, you'll outrun us on the straights and we'll be stopping for fuel three times as often as you :)

[bosslady]

Don't worry, you'll outrun us on the straights and we'll be stopping for fuel three times as often as you :)
Haha aint that the truth! How many ks do you get on your main? Do you know how many teeth on your front and rear sprockets too?

[strandedinnz]

Haha aint that the truth! How many ks do you get on your main? Do you know how many teeth on your front and rear sprockets too?

I usually get 175 to 185km on main (8 litres) that leaves me with 2 left in reserve. I've changed the gearing on mine, running 15/39 (stock is 15/41) .. it was a bit too tight to go 16 on the front.

[bosslady]

I usually get 175 to 185km on main (8 litres) that leaves me with 2 left in reserve. I've changed the gearing on mine, running 15/39 (stock is 15/41) .. it was a bit too tight to go 16 on the front.
Thats funny. I was 16/39 before and getting 150kms if I wasn't being nice to the bike or 170km+ on open road before hitting reserve but changed to 15/39 on Friday cause I felt like she was a little too high geared.

[nerrrd]

Thinking of meeting you guys for lunch in Raglan, ride back to Rotorua with you and then home. Will depend on if I have to work that day.

Cool! We can wave to each other...'cept we'll both be going in the same direction...hopefully.

[Grashopper]

Cool! We can wave to each other...'cept we'll both be going in the same direction...hopefully.

LOL I can wave when I first see you and when I take off again :laugh:

[strandedinnz]

Thats funny. I was 16/39 before and getting 150kms if I wasn't being nice to the bike or 170km+ on open road before hitting reserve but changed to 15/39 on Friday cause I felt like she was a little too high geared.

Maybe I'm not being mean enough to the bike ? :-) I'll try harder!

[angle]

My plan is to start with you guys, but than detach before the gravel roads at Point 'E' and continue to Gisborne via the coastal road. The next day I will ride west to meet you guys again at Frasertown and then carry on with you from that point onwards.

[bosslady]

Maybe I'm not being mean enough to the bike ? :-) I'll try harder!
I'm seriously not liking that gearing, it feels like it's "stressed" (ish) going motorway speeds!

[insomnia01]

Thinking of meeting you guys for lunch in Raglan, ride back to Rotorua with you and then home. Will depend on if I have to work that day.

I'm hoping to do this leg also & then onto Taupo....

[nerrrd]

My plan is to start with you guys, but than detach before the gravel roads at Point 'E' and continue to Gisborne via the coastal road. The next day I will ride west to meet you guys again at Frasertown and then carry on with you from that point onwards.

Great, we were thinking of keeping a similar route in reserve in case there's a monsoon or some other reason we can't get through to the lake - so we would head for Gisborne via the Napier-Taupo highway and stay there overnight, then on to Ohiwa the next day possibly around the cape.


Thinking of meeting you guys for lunch in Raglan, ride back to Rotorua with you and then home. Will depend on if I have to work that day.


I'm hoping to do this leg also & then onto Taupo....

We should probably figure out where to have lunch in Raglan then - any suggestions gratefully received :).

[leathel]

I'm seriously not liking that gearing, it feels like it's "stressed" (ish) going motorway speeds!



yeah it will be pulling more revs and have a few more vibes.... but the engine will handle it if you can as you should here mine get a thrashing on dirt...

The lower gearing might suit the gravel and heavier load for your trip if you can put up with it.

[insomnia01]

We should probably figure out where to have lunch in Raglan then - any suggestions gratefully received :).

anywhere on the main road has plenty of food choices, weather dependant queue's would be the issue if its fine :sunny: particularly at the pub....

[bosslady]

yeah it will be pulling more revs and have a few more vibes.... but the engine will handle it if you can as you should here mine get a thrashing on dirt...

The lower gearing might suit the gravel and heavier load for your trip if you can put up with it.
Nah I hate it so much i'm changing back to 16/39 lol

[MrItalian]

I recall reading BossLady's blogs from when her & Grasshopper ? toured on their Gn's, she has ( i'm sure ) gained some experiance of touring & as long as she & her riding partner put in some time studying the ride they will be ok. Hell I know who some chaps that have years of riding experiance that have come to grief on less troubling roads..... give the chick the :niceone: for giving it a go, GO BOSSLADY!!!! :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

+1, safe trip guys and do upload few pics of your journey.

[G4L4XY]

SH2 from Opotiki to Gizzy looks supurb! Turns out I'm not working on most of those days (except the last) however the RR doesn't like offroad touring. Maybe I join for the smexy piece of road, sure looks fun!

[nerrrd]

SH2 from Opotiki to Gizzy looks supurb! Turns out I'm not working on most of those days (except the last) however the RR doesn't like offroad touring. Maybe I join for the smexy piece of road, sure looks fun!

Just wanted to point out that we'll be going from Gisborne to Opotiki (or Ohiwa in particular) on Saturday afternoon (not the other way 'round), but you probably already knew that aye; it's a great piece of road, one of the 'top 50 motorcycle rides in the land of the long white cloud' according to the Twisted Throttle book I got free from work. Coincidentally, several of the other roads we're intending to take get a mention in that book...:whistle:

[insomnia01]

Coincidentally, several of the other roads we're intending to take get a mention in that book...:whistle:

Tiniroto Road is one of my favourite pieces of road in that neck of the woods :shifty: the Waioeka gorge wouldn't be to far behind it :Punk:

[Gremlin]

Tiniroto Road is one of my favourite pieces of road in that neck of the woods :shifty:
Bit of a mess at the moment - heaps of roadworks all over the place, went through on Tuesday.

[nerrrd]

Bit of a mess at the moment - heaps of roadworks all over the place, went through on Tuesday.

Thanks for the update, could maybe take the coast road instead?

As far as accommodation in Rotorua is concerned, we were looking to stay here http://rotoruathermal.co.nz with tent sites from $26. Unfortunately they're having trouble with the pump for their hot pool so it may not be operating next week.

Found this place as an alternative, quite a bit more expensive though ($42) http://cosycottage.co.nz but also with hot pools.

[insomnia01]

Thanks for the update, could maybe take the coast road instead?

either way the km's & timeframe are similar

[insomnia01]

all going well as mentioned earlier, If I catch up with you lot @ Raglan I'm happy to lead out to Mangakino/Rotorua :whistle: know these roads reasonable well :msn-wink:

[nerrrd]

all going well as mentioned earlier, If I catch up with you lot @ Raglan I'm happy to lead out to Mangakino/Rotorua :whistle: know these roads reasonable well :msn-wink:

You'd be welcome, my navigation skills aren't all that great (mostly Google-based in fact) plus I'll be going at a leisurely pace.

[nerrrd]

Also been in touch with the camping ground at Lake Waikaremoana, they've got room and can book us in on the day provided we get there before 7pm (which is when the office closes on a Friday). Asked them about the state of the road and they said it's fine, they've had a few bikes through lately no problems.

The cabin at Ohiwa Holiday Park is booked, 3 people pencilled in at this stage (myself, bosslady and strandedinnz). Will take two more subject to the approval of the other occupants of course, and if they're prepared to get friendly in a double bed. Or there's camping there too if that's preferred. Cabin price may go up with extras (it was $80 for two, it's $100 for three etc).

Forecast not looking too flash at this stage :( but probably still too far out to say for sure.

[angle]

The cabin at Ohiwa Holiday Park is booked, 3 people pencilled in at this stage (myself, bosslady and strandedinnz). Will take two more subject to the approval of the other occupants of course, and if they're prepared to get friendly in a double bed. Or there's camping there too if that's preferred. Cabin price may go up with extras (it was $80 for two, it's $100 for three etc).


I've tried to book a cabin at Ohiwa for Friday and Saturday, but everything is taken... Can you please put me in on that list of occupants? Also, since you already have a booking, can they the extend it to Friday as well?

[Maha]

Is aim this time, to complete the trip, the whole trip and nothing but the trip?

[nerrrd]

I've tried to book a cabin at Ohiwa for Friday and Saturday, but everything is taken... Can you please put me in on that list of occupants? Also, since you already have a booking, can they the extend it to Friday as well?

No luck extending the booking to Friday, but they have one standard cabin left ($65) for the Friday night so you should be able to get that if you're quick, we can add you to our cabin on Saturday night no problem for an extra $20.


Is aim this time, to complete the trip, the whole trip and nothing but the trip?

That is the aim, I'm quietly confident we'll hit it this time :) .

[Gremlin]

Forecast not looking too flash at this stage :( but probably still too far out to say for sure.
Sorry, think I've used up all the good weather. Can't remember such an awesome week of riding for some time! :ride:

[nerrrd]

Sorry, think I've used up all the good weather. Can't remember such an awesome week of riding for some time! :ride:

Don't blame yourself (bastard! :lol:). Looks like it might be improving slighty, fingers crossed :sunny:.

[Maha]

Don't blame yourself (bastard! :lol:). Looks like it might be improving slighty, fingers crossed :sunny:.

Saturday 7am http://www.metvuw.com/forecast/forecast1.php?type=rain&region=nzni&tim=102 clearing to the east 12 hours later, don't worry if your bikes get dirty on that metal road, they will clean up soon enough once back on the tar seal.

[angle]

The cabin at Ohiwa Holiday Park is booked, 3 people pencilled in at this stage (myself, bosslady and strandedinnz). Will take two more subject to the approval of the other occupants of course, and if they're prepared to get friendly in a double bed. Or there's camping there too if that's preferred. Cabin price may go up with extras (it was $80 for two, it's $100 for three etc).

So for the last night we are staying in Opotiki not Gisborne?

[nerrrd]

Saturday 7am http://www.metvuw.com/forecast/forecast1.php?type=rain&region=nzni&tim=102 clearing to the east 12 hours later, don't worry if your bikes get dirty on that metal road, they will clean up soon enough once back on the tar seal.

Yeah not so much the dirtiness as the slipperiness that's going to be my concern.


So for the last night we are staying in Opotiki not Gisborne?

Plan was always Thursday night Rotorua, Friday night Lake Waikaremoana, Saturday night Ohiwa. (If for some reason we couldn't get to the lake we were considering Gisborne as an alternative for the Friday night.) See post #1.

[Maha]

Yeah not so much the dirtiness as the slipperiness that's going to be my concern.



..as they say Rodney, ride to the conditions. We have time up our sleeves until we start our new job on the 24th, looking to get away on the bikes, probably next week sometime for a couple of days.

[angle]

Plan was always Thursday night Rotorua, Friday night Lake Waikaremoana, Saturday night Ohiwa. (If for some reason we couldn't get to the lake we were considering Gisborne as an alternative for the Friday night.) See post #1.

Cheers, got it sorted. Have you made the 'D' on where in Rotorua we are going to stay?

[insomnia01]

where are you calling into for lunch in Raglan? any idea on general direction you guys will be taking from Raglan to Rotorua?

[nerrrd]

..as they as Rodney, ride to the conditions. We have time up our sleeves until we start our new job on the 24th, looking to get away on the bikes, probably next week sometime for a couple of days.

Thanks Mark good advice, hope you guys get away for a good one :).


Cheers, got it sorted. Have you made the 'D' on where in Rotorua we are going to stay?


where are you calling into for lunch in Raglan? any idea on general direction you guys will be taking from Raglan to Rotorua?

Bit busy this arvo, I'll try and sort some details out tonite.

[BigAl]

where are you calling into for lunch in Raglan? any idea on general direction you guys will be taking from Raglan to Rotorua?

I would guess East. :-)

[insomnia01]

I would guess East. :-)

was wondering whether they are coming back as far as Whatawhata or turning off at either Fergusson Rd/Waitetuna Valley Rd or Te pahu Rd :whistle: I was thinking of taking them through Te pahu Rd - Kihikihi - Owairaka valley - Waipapa Rd & on to Whakamaru, they can carry on to Rotorua from here as I'm off to Taupo :drinkup:

[leathel]

was wondering whether they are coming back as far as Whatawhata or turning off at either Fergusson Rd/Waitetuna Valley Rd or Te pahu Rd :whistle: I was thinking of taking them through Te pahu Rd - Kihikihi - Owairaka valley - Waipapa Rd & on to Whakamaru, they can carry on to Rotorua from here as I'm off to Taupo :drinkup:

KihiKihi...mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm Viands bakery.... yummy pies, but lunch was in Raglin.... maybe a spiced plum, port and apple pie for desert :P

or a cronut

[Grashopper]

Hehe, yep, would be good to know where to find you guys in Raglan. :-)

[nerrrd]

Okay, knew some kind of organisation would have to happen eventually (doh my Achilles heel.)

About Raglan, don't actually know it much so I don't really know where to have lunch. (Last time I was there with Mongolian and Jaffasaffer I thing we had lunch at Orca Restaurant down the end of the main drag, seemed OK but pricey) Not much of a cafe-goer myself.

I was thinking we could meet up outside the Harbour View Hotel which is next to the supermarket (I think) and take it from there. We're expecting to get there around midday.

[nerrrd]

was wondering whether they are coming back as far as Whatawhata or turning off at either Fergusson Rd/Waitetuna Valley Rd or Te pahu Rd :whistle: I was thinking of taking them through Te pahu Rd - Kihikihi - Owairaka valley - Waipapa Rd & on to Whakamaru, they can carry on to Rotorua from here as I'm off to Taupo :drinkup:

Hey the only route I had looked at was the one in my twisting throttle book - according to the map in that it's:

Otorohanga - Rangitea Rd - Lurman Rd - Paewhenua Rd - Maihiihi Rd - Mangatutu Rd - Wharepuhunga Rd - Ngaroma Rd - Wairehi Rd - Waipapa Rd - Mangakino.

Really grateful for any local knowledge you could provide.

[leathel]

Hey the only route I had looked at was the one in my twisting throttle book - according to the map in that it's:

Otorohanga - Rangitea Rd - Lurman Rd - Paewhenua Rd - Maihiihi Rd - Mangatutu Rd - Wharepuhunga Rd - Ngaroma Rd - Wairehi Rd - Waipapa Rd - Mangakino.

Really grateful for any local knowledge you could provide.

your original route looks fine, as done the one mentioned above. I have traveled most of the one above... most roads mid island have a good outlook :)

Raglin meal wise Marlin cafe down by the wharf has a nice outlook, not supper cheap but nice meals and service

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd316/leathel-one/2013-02-09151136.jpg (http://s222.photobucket.com/user/leathel-one/media/2013-02-09151136.jpg.html)

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd316/leathel-one/2013-02-09151149.jpg (http://s222.photobucket.com/user/leathel-one/media/2013-02-09151149.jpg.html)

there is a cafe just up from fire / ambo station that looked ok, not been in it just had a brotherhood ride to the station.

must be others but can be sorted at the meet point anyway :)

[insomnia01]

Hey the only route I had looked at was the one in my twisting throttle book - according to the map in that it's:

Otorohanga - Rangitea Rd - Lurman Rd - Paewhenua Rd - Maihiihi Rd - Mangatutu Rd - Wharepuhunga Rd - Ngaroma Rd - Wairehi Rd - Waipapa Rd - Mangakino.

Really grateful for any local knowledge you could provide.

nothing wrong with them roads avg twisty\flowing rural roads what time are you due in roto vagas? My suggested route is open flowing road stuff :shutup: did you & Bosslady organise extra fuel containers?? I wont be able to meet for lunch but thought of meeting up somewhere along the line... possible meet at either petrol station in Raglan Last one on left as you leave ( BP ?? )) or GAS in whatawhata

[leathel]

Raglan - Mangakino the original way with gas stop at Otorahanga ? Not sure I will make it two up on the 1100, uses a tad more gas (Rose will join me) I should get there but that leg is close to 190K


the other way is 145K's and nice roads still, some the same roads

https://maps.google.co.nz/maps?saddr=Raglan&daddr=Te+Pahu+Road,+Te+Pahu+to:Kihikihi,+Waikato+t o:Owairaka+Valley+Road,+Parawera+to:Waipapa+Rd,+Ma ngakino+to:Whakamaru,+Waikato&hl=en&sll=-37.801406,174.871794&sspn=0.616334,0.883026&geocode=FUIyv_0d8lRsCiltiPYZoSoTbTFQ_KJDYe8ABQ%3BF bUovf0dd7ZwCinRNOljYidtbTE23fLTFrbfYA%3BFVmYu_0d1o 1zCikXcHZYX-9sbTFA1aJDYe8ABQ%3BFXePuv0dfaV1Cin7V9nMBvFsbTEzDLK VhIDksg%3BFcvCtv0dZih5Cinjb_jS7WBsbTGkum5lput2Pg%3 BFfe1tf0ddZd6Cikb818a8XBsbTGQ8qJDYe8ABQ&oq=+Whakamaru&t=h&mra=ls&z=9


I think I will throw in a 5ltr to be sure and it will be fine either way.... Not staying in Rotorua heading back for work Friday...too much on, may leave at Mangakino yet will see how Rose is feeling on the back.

Do you have a lead rider from Papakura - Raglan? Ive done that trip a few times in the last year.

now better get back to work to get the jobs sorted so I can do the run I have sorted Saturday to Napier :)

[Maha]

Raglan - Mangakino the original way with gas stop at Otorahanga ?



Te Awamutu to Mangakino is a blinder ride for sure, very scenic/twisty with the odd straight bit thrown in :niceone:

[insomnia01]

Bugger me!!!! big change of plans for me :mad: seems pillion got dates wrong heading to taupo :brick: NOWWWW!!!:angry2::angry2: enjoy your loop which ever way you go :cry:

[nerrrd]

did you & Bosslady organise extra fuel containers??

Bosslady's awesome rack ;) has a fuel container built in; I also found a length of tube in the drawer which I'm going to put under the seat just in case siphoning is required - my bike's a bit of a camel compared to the motards. Not keen on a mouthful of petrol tho, so might be "user sucks" lol.


Do you have a lead rider from Papakura - Raglan? Ive done that trip a few times in the last year.

Really happy for you to lead at any stage! The thought of me leading put's me in mind of a quote from Obi Wan Kenobi: "who's the bigger fool, the fool or the fool that follows him?"


Te Awamutu to Mangakino is a blinder ride for sure, very scenic/twisty with the odd straight bit thrown in :niceone:

Thanks for all the suggestions from everyone.


Bugger me!!!! big change of plans for me :mad: seems pillion got dates wrong heading to taupo :brick: NOWWWW!!!:angry2::angry2: enjoy your loop which ever way you go :cry:

Bugger's right! Hope you have a good ride.

[leathel]

Really happy for you to lead at any stage! The thought of me leading put's me in mind of a quote from Obi Wan Kenobi: "who's the bigger fool, the fool or the fool that follows him?"




I don't have the GPS mounted on the 1100 so don't know the Otorahanga to Mangakino section, I have not done that way..

[Grashopper]

Okay, knew some kind of organisation would have to happen eventually (doh my Achilles heel.)

About Raglan, don't actually know it much so I don't really know where to have lunch. (Last time I was there with Mongolian and Jaffasaffer I thing we had lunch at Orca Restaurant down the end of the main drag, seemed OK but pricey) Not much of a cafe-goer myself.

I was thinking we could meet up outside the Harbour View Hotel which is next to the supermarket (I think) and take it from there. We're expecting to get there around midday.

Cool, that will work. Got Bosslady's number anyway. Will plan to be in Raglan around 11:30. Looking forward to see you guys there. Weather looks great now. Yay.:sunny:

[arcane12]

+1 on Marlin cafe. Man I am tempted to head out. I am sure I can work it out, laptop on my back, headphone in (to hear calls, so I can stop). It will work I tell you!

[nerrrd]

I don't have the GPS mounted on the 1100 so don't know the Otorahanga to Mangakino section, I have not done that way..

No worries, I'll sort something. Just hope nobody minds how slow I'll be going.


Cool, that will work. Got Bosslady's number anyway. Will plan to be in Raglan around 11:30. Looking forward to see you guys there. Weather looks great now. Yay.:sunny:

Yeah quite pleased with the way the weather is going, see you there!


+1 on Marlin cafe. Man I am tempted to head out. I am sure I can work it out, laptop on my back, headphone in (to hear calls, so I can stop). It will work I tell you!

That's two votes then, that view's not bad either. Yeah that sounds like some Xtreme IT-ing, what could go wrong? (seriously though might not be good to be distracted / looking for somewhere to stop on the open road...)

[bosslady]

Just starting to pack now! !!

[Grashopper]

Have a safe ride tomorrow folks. See you guys in Raglan :)

[bosslady]

Almost packed now just gotta put some fuel in the can and figure out how to strap everything to the bike

[nerrrd]

So we're off, weather fine but sticky. Geronimo!

[Grashopper]

Home now. A bit sore, but happy. Was a great day riding out to Raglan, meeting up with the others, had some delicious lunch at Marlin Cafe and then we took of all together. I sure get why the LoR people always go to Raglan. Really nice road there.

Next stop Otorohanga and then we took some nice backroads that were partly gravel and partly really great surface and somehow after quite a bit of riding ended up on Waipapa Rd...... Ok, I looked it up, I think somehow we ended up on Tauraroa Valley Rd that suddenly turned into a gravel road and then we turned of into Hoddle Rd which also was gravel. Very scenic though. Pics will follow.

I split up with the others just before Mangakino and left for Taupo, while there were off to Rotovegas.

This was a fun day. Awesome ride with great people. We should do this more often. :yes:

[arcane12]

This was a fun day. Awesome ride with great people. We should do this more often. :yes:


Great outing. Sorry I couldn't tag along for longer than the quick jaunt to raglan, but I guess I knew what I was signing up for with the on call work! I still have a tan to explain tomorrow which should be fun! Didn't get a call until 6 so i could have risked it.

I am keen for more day outings around, and there are plenty of excellent places around that would make little cruises.

It was great to see 8 bikes there - I didn't expect so many people out to support these crazed adventure bikers! I also enjoyed getting to see Rodney's new pride and joy! Good work!

[leathel]

back home now... A few K's clocked up today, would have been nice to stay in Rotorua but work in the morning so an extra 200K's and I am home :)

I actually enjoyed the gravel stint, Nice country

Nice day out with a good crew

:)

[nerrrd]

Thanks guys for the great company, it was a bit roundabout but we got there in the end.

Especially thanks to David for leading the way. Bosslady took the lead to Rotorua and got us there by 6:30. I'm knackered but pleased with day one.

Bike's really dirty and a little scarred but so far has been great. Hope the weather holds for day two...

[bosslady]

I travel that road quite a bit when deer stalking. It is long, tedious, gets rutted pretty often and you have to look out for everything from horses and pigs to locals driving shirt heap cars too fast once you leave Murupara. Nice scenery. Entirely their call but I wouldn't choose it at Bossladys level of experience.

just sayin

It wasn't anywhere near as awful as people described, didn't come anywhere near dropping my bike.

Not beyond my level of experience at all.

Just sayin.

[strandedinnz]

Extra points for doing the road on Contisport Attack2 tires .... To top you next person must use slicks ;)

[skippa1]

It wasn't anywhere near as awful as people described, didn't come anywhere near dropping my bike.


Not beyond my level of experience at all.


Just sayin.

Isnt this what I said ...........


Actually cancel that shit I just said. Go for it. Life is for living. I have taken my nana dress off now...

Glad you're enjoying the trip......now let it go

[bosslady]

Isnt this what I said ...........



Glad you're enjoying the trip......now let it go

Haha sorry but you can't take back what you said!

Anyway, you're not the only one who said how awful it was.

[skippa1]

Haha sorry but you can't take back what you said!

Anyway, you're not the only one who said how awful it was.

Let it go

10 char

[Maha]

Let it go

10 char

For some, it is impossible to let go of a negative... in a positive way at least.

[skippa1]

For some, it is impossible to let go of a negative... in a positive way at least.
Oh dear, how sad, never mind

[bosslady]

Honestly, rack off. If I want to pass comment when someone tells me that I can't do something/it's beyond my level of experience, I bloody well will, have we ever even ridden together before skippa1? Not as far as I know, and if we have, it sure as hell wasn't recently. If I want to say something about what you said, I will, and you can bugger off if you think you have the right to TELL me to let anything go. So basically what I'm saying is nyah nyah nyah I did it, suck it.

Now... LET IT GO

[skippa1]

Honestly, rack off. If I want to pass comment when someone tells me that I can't do something/it's beyond my level of experience, I bloody well will, have we ever even ridden together before skippa1? Not as far as I know, and if we have, it sure as hell wasn't recently. If I want to say something about what you said, I will, and you can bugger off if you think you have the right to TELL me to let anything go. So basically what I'm saying is nyah nyah nyah I did it, suck it.

Now... LET IT GO

I wasn't talking to you. Keep your nose out of it

[bosslady]

Hoping to post up some photos and maybe a video. Bit gutted I chose not to video until we'd hit what virtually was just dirt, didn't video where it was predominantly gravel and didn't video when I started getting a bit more confident and was picking up the pace, bum. Means I missed bulls eyeing us up, cows walking across the road, wild horses walking around and of course, crap loads of shit (pun intended) all over the road in the worst possible places, right? Strandedinnz was a star for leading us into the lake, im very grateful.

Thought I'd video the second day instead thinking it would be fine weather EH wrong. Was raining most of the night/early morning. Definitely picked the best time of year going by the comments of others, no "fresh" gravel, that I could tell anyway but meant where there was no gravel there was dirt, which when mixed with rain turns into... really slimy road! I definitely had the most inappropriate tyres, sport road tyres and slippery roads no go togetha! Still very surprised I didn't drop my bike though if I'm to be quite honest.

Hands down Day 2 into Lake Waikaremoana was the best ride ive ever done. Day 1, good but so so tiring. Day 3, nearly shit my pants with the lack of visibility in the hills on the way to Gisborne. And today of course, the means to an end! Glad we didnt plan a big one today.

Cheers leathel for leading virtually all of Day 1, will get those bungees back to you at some point! nerrrd for being one hellova organised mofo, seriously, strandedinnz for leading into the lake and your constant positivity, its nice to be around! And of course angle, seriously the stuff that came out of your mouth was unbelievably funny, even if incredibly innappropriate/ insensitive. I really think we had a good group! And ill say it again, i sincerely apologise for screaming in my sleep, now lets never speak of it again ;-)

[FJRider]

On rides such as this one ... the one thing that helps immeasurably on roads such as you those ... is experience .. !!! :shifty:




The good news is ... now ... you have it ... :laugh:

[angle]

And of course angle, seriously the stuff that came out of your mouth was unbelievably funny, even if incredibly innappropriate/ insensitive.
I'd just like to point out to the wider community that the "stuff that came out" was speech. There was no dodginess of any kind, shape or form.

P.S. It was a good adventure ride with gravel, mud, tar, rain, fog, wind and "burnouts" on the sand. All with a distinct shortage of blankets.

[bosslady]

I'd just like to point out to the wider community that the "stuff that came out" was speech. There was no dodginess of any kind, shape or form.

P.S. It was a good adventure ride with gravel, mud, tar, rain, fog, wind and "burnouts" on the sand. All with a distinct shortage of blankets.
Of course, glad you clarified, lol.

[DanielM8]

Hoping to post up some photos and maybe a video. Bit gutted I chose not to video until we'd hit what virtually was just dirt, didn't video where it was predominantly gravel and didn't video when I started getting a bit more confident and was picking up the pace, bum. Means I missed bulls eyeing us up, cows walking across the road, wild horses walking around and of course, crap loads of shit (pun intended) all over the road in the worst possible places, right? Strandedinnz was a star for leading us into the lake, im very grateful.

Thought I'd video the second day instead thinking it would be fine weather EH wrong. Was raining most of the night/early morning. Definitely picked the best time of year going by the comments of others, no "fresh" gravel, that I could tell anyway but meant where there was no gravel there was dirt, which when mixed with rain turns into... really slimy road! I definitely had the most inappropriate tyres, sport road tyres and slippery roads no go togetha! Still very surprised I didn't drop my bike though if I'm to be quite honest.

Hands down Day 2 into Lake Waikaremoana was the best ride ive ever done. Day 1, good but so so tiring. Day 3, nearly shit my pants with the lack of visibility in the hills on the way to Gisborne. And today of course, the means to an end! Glad we didnt plan a big one today.

Cheers leathel for leading virtually all of Day 1, will get those bungees back to you at some point! nerrrd for being one hellova organised mofo, seriously, strandedinnz for leading into the lake and your constant positivity, its nice to be around! And of course angle, seriously the stuff that came out of your mouth was unbelievably funny, even if incredibly innappropriate/ insensitive. I really think we had a good group! And ill say it again, i sincerely apologise for screaming in my sleep, now lets never speak of it again ;-)

Sounds like a real adventure. Glad you guys had fun! And very brave of you to ride in those conditions!!

[FJRider]

... All with a distinct shortage of blankets.

When there is a shortage of blankets ... you must learn to share ... :msn-wink:

[insomnia01]

Good on you lot for taking on the beast & "HAVING FUN " :2thumbsup

[nerrrd]

Just a quick note 'cos I was too tired last night and too busy doing stuff...

Big thanks to strandedinnz for his confident leadership on the gravel, I think that made a big difference. Also big thanks to everyone else who volunteered to lead at different times especially leathal and angle, I hardly had to do anything. Big apologies to angle for sending him off in the wrong direction, feel like I should pay for the petrol used. And thanks for everyone's sense of humour, great company the whole way thru.

It's been great watching Bosslady's riding improving, she was leaving me for dust in the dry gravel (literally), but damn that wet clay not much gravel shit is slippery - quickly learned the value of not looking at the edge of the road when I almost went off the edge of the road.

V happy with my new bike, took it all in it's stride despite the best efforts of its owner to drop it/leave the engine kill switch on/drown it in chain lube (rear tyre also) and/or sand. Looking a bit more lived on now.

We stuck to the route more or less, got lost at one point, found our way out, got covered in mud, soaked in rain and mist and made it home in one piece. Might upload some pics later.

[bosslady]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=butfOfShwwk
Tail end of the ride into Lake Waikaremoana. We'd just come off gravel and then a dirt road, virtually, with some gravel chucked over it here and there is what's shown in this vid. It must have been raining at some point that day as it wasn't entirely dry and eventually it did start raining but that's not shown in this vid! Also wasn't so sure how the attacks would hold up either so being pretty cautious.

[nerrrd]

Here are some pics so it did happen.

Waikaremoana lake; campground at Waikaremoana; on the road into Waikaremoana; camping on weird heated ground at Rotorua (hot but strangely soothing); early morning beach panorama at Ohiwa; dirty bike (think the rain had washed some of it off by this stage).

[strandedinnz]

When there is a shortage of blankets ... you must learn to share ... :msn-wink:

Have you seen him ? He's like 8 feet tall! Anything we shared would only cover up to his knees!

Besides he needed to toughen up anyway ;-)