Backpacking NZ on a bike - Genius or a terrible idea?

[Micheken]

I'm arriving in Auckland (from Canada) next week on a 2-year visa. I've noticed that there's a massive campervan subculture over there, and I'm certainly planning to do a lot of touring, hiking, camping, etc, but the idea of doing it with a van doesn't really excite me.

Obviously there are plenty of reasons that a van is more practical than a motorcycle for this kind of travel, but I'm wondering if you think I can get away with doing it on a bike. If so, would a dual purpose be the best option? Maybe a KLR? Vans are tempting because for 4,000 I can get something that's fully equipped, even with a bed. A good bike equipped with good storage seems like it will run me more like 8,000.

I also don't want to be spending my time doing oil changes at campsites, so I'd need something with low maintenance needs. Maybe a touring bike would be just fine? I really don't want to be limited to the paved roads, though. Anyone done a tour of NZ this way? Any advice, or warnings?

Sorry for sounding whiny and indecisive, but that's kinda how I feel right now, and my flight is fast approaching...

Cheers - Ryan

[george formby]

Touring the country by bike will make the traveling a damn sight more fun than creeping along in a clapped out Toyota Hiace holding up the locals. Dual purpose bikes like KLR's, DR.s, GS's etc are perfect and give access to a lot of routes which would be a pain or inaccessible in a van. A bike will gain you entry into the NZ two wheel sub culture, too.
If your confident in your setting up and touring abilities I would say go for it, just don't shit in the bushes.

[Maha]

Touring the country by bike will make the traveling a damn sight more fun than creeping along in a clapped out Toyota Hiace holding up the locals. Dual purpose bikes like KLR's, DR.s, GS's etc are perfect and give access to a lot of routes which would be a pain or inaccessible in a van. A bike will gain you entry into the NZ two wheel sub culture, too.
If your confident in your setting up and touring abilities I would say go for it, just don't shit in the bushes.

:laugh: My first thought was ''Just don't take a dump at the base of a Kauri''.

At minimum buy one of these...http://www.grip-lock.com/home-en/

[george formby]

:laugh: My first thought was ''Just don't take a dump at the base of a Kauri''.

At minimum buy one of these...http://www.grip-lock.com/home-en/

Camouflaged toilet paper would make it harder to spot where the Freedom Dumpers have spent the night. It would have it's drawbacks, though.

Security, low on my list of bike issues but a very valid point. I should get out more.

[george formby]

I'm sure a KB poster spoke of hiding their bike in the bushes and heading off up mountains in a thread. Imagine finding a KLR dumped in the thicket, that would be a huge, steaming pile!


I don't really mean that, just wanted to squeeze it out before someone else pinched the opportunity. Sorry KLR fans.

[Maha]

I'm sure a KB poster spoke of hiding their bike in the bushes and heading off up mountains in a thread. Imagine finding a KLR dumped in the thicket, that would be a huge, steaming pile!


I don't really mean that, just wanted to squeeze it out before someone else pinched the opportunity. Sorry KLR fans.
On the steaming pile, I Hayabusa once rode over a shirt at rest stop and it was full of human shit/arse wipe. Clogged up the rear sprocket/chain well and good with only a swiss army knife to cut it free....:sick:

PS: Wasn't mine.

[george formby]

On the steaming pile, I Hayabusa once rode over a shirt at rest stop and it was full of human shit/arse wipe. Clogged up the rear sprocket/chain well and good with only a swiss army knife to cut it free....:sick:

PS: Wasn't mine.

Rest assured I never suspected you crapping in your clothes.

[haydes55]

If you're looking at spending $8000 on hiring a bike, I'd look at buying a second hand bike on trademe.co.nz then sell it when you leave. You could buy a near new dr650 or klr650, bring your own or buy some luggage for it.

[Maha]

Something like this Dakar would be the go http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-1069018306.htm

Even if gets dumped for $4-5K at the end of the stay you've only lost around $3K not $8k on hiring.

[GrayWolf]

backpacking in comfort????
absolutely you can. :cool::cool:


last year {2 weeks} march this year {3 weeks} touring the south island by 'bike'. Use tripadvisor, bookme, trivago etc. Tripadvisor frequently has feedback and pictures taken by patrons uploaded with the feedback. The days of 'squalid, crappy worn out and tired facilities is fast being replaced, by many which have almost 'hotel comfort' rooms and facilities.
Trust me, the two trips were with my ex, who is a 'serious princes' :rolleyes: over clean, comfortable rooms, and she booked all our accommodation and at bloody good prices.
You can use those sites to find places once you have decided your route, and she looked in every day to see if better deals came up.. {you can cancel many places up to a couple of days notice} Often $200 rooms will appear for 50% on 'specials'.

as an example, two 'backpackers' we have used in the north recently
Anndion Lodge in Wanganui

http://www.anndionlodge.co.nz/
The owners are/were both motorcyclists and this place even has 'out of sight' storage for bikes.

https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/Hotel_Review-g255370-d645121-Reviews-Anndion_Lodge_Apartments_Function_Centre-Whanganui_Manawatu_Wanganui_Region_North_Islan.htm l

and Parkside Lodge Napier {also very bike friendly}

http://parksidelodge.co.nz/
https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/Hotel_Review-g255109-d3444039-Reviews-Parkside_Lodge-Napier_Hawke_s_Bay_Region_North_Island.html


this is one in Dunedin we used {south island} on both trips. {$90nz for the 'deluxe' rooms}
http://www.ontopbackpackers.co.nz/
https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/Hotel_Review-g255119-d1021780-Reviews-On_Top_Backpackers-Dunedin_Otago_Region_South_Island.html

hope this gives you some help for finding 'decent accommodation'.

[Mike.Gayner]

This country is very travelable on a motorcycle.

[jasonu]

This country is very travelable on a motorcycle.

Unless it is raining which happens most of the time.

[Mike.Gayner]

Unless it is raining which happens most of the time.

You don't ride in the rain? Jesus, you really are a precious little princess.

[Micheken]

That Dakar looks damn sweet...

Is theft really that big of a problem there? Here in Canada people laugh at me when I put my lock on the front rotor.

Sorry for the confusion...I was speaking of buying a bike rather than renting one. I may end up there for up to 2 years, so the price to rent gets way out of hand after a month or two.

And yes I can't tell you how sad I feel when I picture myself driving some shitty van with 2XX,XXX kilometers on it, picking up vagabonds along my way...

Would a cheaper sport/touring bike be a bad idea? Looks like I can find a decent 500cc bike for under $5,000. Something like this Bandit: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/180900-Bandit (I just sold my Bandit here in Canada - I had the exact same model). Obviously that would limit where I can go (and kick me out of the offroad club)...

[Maha]

That Dakar looks damn sweet...

Is theft really that big of a problem there? Here in Canada people laugh at me when I put my lock on the front rotor.

Sorry for the confusion...I was speaking of buying a bike rather than renting one. I may end up there for up to 2 years, so the price to rent gets way out of hand after a month or two.

And yes I can't tell you how sad I feel when I picture myself driving some shitty van with 2XX,XXX kilometers on it, picking up vagabonds along my way...

Would a cheaper sport/touring bike be a bad idea? Looks like I can find a decent 500cc bike for under $5,000. Something like this Bandit: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/180900-Bandit (I just sold my Bandit here in Canada - I had the exact same model). Obviously that would limit where I can go (and kick me out of the offroad club)...

There will always be members willing to offer up a bed/hot shower and decent feed when you need one, don't be too shy to ask.
Theft is not that bigger problem here, but it always pays to lock up and unattended bike over night.

[Akzle]

And yes I can't tell you how sad I feel when I picture myself driving some shitty van with 2XX,XXX kilometers on it, picking up vagabonds along my way...



:laugh::laugh:

onlys 200.




mate, down here we don't consider them run in until 350, by 500 thou you know if it's worth keeping or not :lol:

[Moi]

... Would a cheaper sport/touring bike be a bad idea? Looks like I can find a decent 500cc bike for under $5,000. Something like this Bandit: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/180900-Bandit (I just sold my Bandit here in Canada - I had the exact same model). Obviously that would limit where I can go (and kick me out of the offroad club)...

If you go for that one, insist on 2 years unconditional warranty and road-side assistance... :innocent:

[Gremlin]

Using a vehicle does give you more options, what if you want to mtb bike as well, or something else requiring gear. Securing gear while tramping (obviously doesn't stop people breaking in), or you have to drop the gear at accommodation. Day on day of miserable rain, it is easier in a vehicle.

Budget accommodation options: http://www.bbh.co.nz/

You definitely want to get off the sealed roads, that's where you'll see the best bits. Motorcycles are far more enjoyable for that.

[EJK]

BBH is a pain in the bum when it comes to booking. Try YHA.co.nz.

Your backpacking bike travel sounds awesome! Hope you have fun in NZ!

[Micheken]

Thanks - I'll keep those hostel sites ready for when I'm sick of the rain...

[Micheken]

Any thoughts on this little guy? http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=1124685311 He only wants $3,350 at this point.

I know it's small, but after my SV1000 and Bandit 1200 I wouldn't mind something nice and light. I imagine it's cheaper on gas and insurance, can do the same offroad as the BMW, has almost no mileage on it, etc. Or maybe I'm missing something, and there's a reason it's been for sale for quite a while now?

Cheers

[Madness]

Any thoughts on this little guy? http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=1124685311 He only wants $3,350 at this point.

I know it's small, but after my SV1000 and Bandit 1200 I wouldn't mind something nice and light. I imagine it's cheaper on gas and insurance, can do the same offroad as the BMW, has almost no mileage on it, etc. Or maybe I'm missing something, and there's a reason it's been for sale for quite a while now?

Cheers

It needs another ~200cc if you're going touring, you'll have a queue of caravans up your date the whole time.

[Micheken]

It needs another ~200cc if you're going touring, you'll have a queue of caravans up your date the whole time.

So true...although I really wish it wasn't. Alright I'll stop being a cheapskate and look at 400+ bikes.

[Micheken]

This is probably more like it: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-1150885041.htm
2010 DR650

[clint640]

This is probably more like it: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-1150885041.htm
2010 DR650

Yep, those are super common here & a great pick for traveling NZ. If it's a good runner I'd jump on that one. The DR's are good cos they are relatively light for a 650, so easier & more fun on rough roads. You do have more expensive rego (vehicle tax) at 600cc+ but there just aren't many good bikes in the 400-600 range available. Definitely get something with racks already fitted like that one, NZ stocks of specialist accessories are often minimal & stuff has to be ordered from overseas.

For going hiking the trick is to stay at a nearby paid campground on the way to/from the walk & ask if you can leave your gear with them. There aren't too many trailheads in NZ where I would worry about leaving my unladen bike to head off on a day walk. I would lock it to something though. A nice long cable that can go through all your riding gear is good. Most of the popular multi day walks have shuttles from the nearby towns so if you are heading for the hills for a few days leaving the bike at the campground or accommodation is usually no problem. Some shuttle companies also have secure parking.

Having some offroad capability means you'll be able to find lots of cool wild campsites but leave no trace. Pack a trowel & bury your shit.

Come visit when you are in Rotorua. If we are home there's always a beer & some tent space here for moto travelers.

Cheers
Clint

[Micheken]

Yep, those are super common here & a great pick for traveling NZ. If it's a good runner I'd jump on that one. The DR's are good cos they are relatively light for a 650, so easier & more fun on rough roads. You do have more expensive rego (vehicle tax) at 600cc+ but there just aren't many good bikes in the 400-600 range available. Definitely get something with racks already fitted like that one, NZ stocks of specialist accessories are often minimal & stuff has to be ordered from overseas.

For going hiking the trick is to stay at a nearby paid campground on the way to/from the walk & ask if you can leave your gear with them. There aren't too many trailheads in NZ where I would worry about leaving my unladen bike to head off on a day walk. I would lock it to something though. A nice long cable that can go through all your riding gear is good. Most of the popular multi day walks have shuttles from the nearby towns so if you are heading for the hills for a few days leaving the bike at the campground or accommodation is usually no problem. Some shuttle companies also have secure parking.

Having some offroad capability means you'll be able to find lots of cool wild campsites but leave no trace. Pack a trowel & bury your shit.

Come visit when you are in Rotorua. If we are home there's always a beer & some tent space here for moto travelers.

Cheers
Clint

Thanks for all that great advice, Clint! I just nabbed that DR650 - picking it up the day I arrive. I feel like I just got really lucky. I'll need to pick up a rear box and some side cases, but after that I'm all set!

I should be passing through Rotorua in October or November - I'll make a note to message you again a bit down the road!

Cheers,
Ryan

[clint640]

Good stuff - Have fun!

You probably don't need to be told to check out the brake pads, chain, sprockets, wheel bearings etc... but pay particular attention to the sprocket carrier bearing - they are often the first thing that wears out on a DR650. That bike was in Tauranga right? I'm not too far from there & I've got a reasonably well set up workshop so get in touch if you need a space to do some wrenching.

Cheers
Clint

[Big Dog]

Looks like good buying!

Sent from Tapatalk. DYAC

[george formby]

Looks like good buying!

Sent from Tapatalk. DYAC

Concur. OP, if your oop north (Bay of Islands) I have a socket set and a lawn but I'm not very good at handling either of them.

[Micheken]

Good stuff - Have fun!

You probably don't need to be told to check out the brake pads, chain, sprockets, wheel bearings etc... but pay particular attention to the sprocket carrier bearing - they are often the first thing that wears out on a DR650. That bike was in Tauranga right? I'm not too far from there & I've got a reasonably well set up workshop so get in touch if you need a space to do some wrenching.

Cheers
Clint

Funny you say that - just a few months ago I replaced the pads, chain and rear bearings on my Bandit, so I'll definitely know what to look out for. Thanks

[jafagsx250]

Camper mate is a pretty good app for traveling around new Zealand. I have used it a couple of times and haven't had issues.

Sent from my GT-I9506 using Tapatalk

[Micheken]

Camper mate is a pretty good app for traveling around new Zealand. I have used it a couple of times and haven't had issues.

Yep - I've already got that loaded with the offline maps - pretty sweet! Problem seems to be finding free campsites - without a self contained van it's quite limited. I inquired about whether or not it's cheaper for me since I'm on a motorcycle, and the prices are the exact same when compared to a non self-contained van. It would be cool to have some offroad sites mapped out somehow - the ones you can only get to with a dual purpose, quad, etc...

Cheers

[clint640]

Yep - I've already got that loaded with the offline maps - pretty sweet! Problem seems to be finding free campsites - without a self contained van it's quite limited. I inquired about whether or not it's cheaper for me since I'm on a motorcycle, and the prices are the exact same when compared to a non self-contained van. It would be cool to have some offroad sites mapped out somehow - the ones you can only get to with a dual purpose, quad, etc...

Cheers

On a lot of offroad routes through public land, especially in the South Island, you can pretty much camp where you want unless there's a sign telling you not to. Leave no trace, due to ongoing problems with freedom campers leaving rubbish & shit all over NZ there are more no camping signs going up all the time. The free campsites with tarmac road access & close to tourist areas are usually pretty crowded over the summer & best avoided anyway.

It looks like http://www.remotemoto.com is down for maintenance or something right now but check back in a few days & get signed up to that. Josh has virtually all the good South Is offroad routes, campsites, vehicle accessible huts, etc etc listed on there.

Cheers
Clint

[neels]

Plenty of places to camp if all you need is a toilet and water supply, you can always stop in to a full facility campground every few days to clean yourself and your gear.

http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/things-to-do/camping/

If you come up with a rough schedule of where you'll be and when, it should be no problem finding a bed and/or a garage.

[Micheken]

That's great news - I wasn't sure how much tourism had affected the south island so far. I really don't want to be a shitty tourist - only tracks left behind will be those of my DR650!

Cheers,
Ryan

[Mike.Gayner]

Most tourists are decent and respectful. A noisy handful of locals make an awful lot of noise about a very small minority of disrepectful visitors.

[george formby]

Most tourists are decent and respectful. A noisy handful of locals make an awful lot of noise about a very small minority of disrepectful visitors.

Having spent a lot of time with tourists, I would have to say the fuckwit quotient is equal between the two. People are people. Same for noisy minorities world wide.

I must admit that Canadians stand out as being very cool tourists. I have liked all those I have met. Keep up the good work!

[RainMan303]

I'm kind of a map nut (past career), so for me there is an essential "don't leave home without it" app: Topo GPS NZ. It is the only app I have ever paid money for ($8, I think). It covers all of NZ 1:50,000 topographic maps, and it is very accurate and up to date. If you're not familiar with topo maps, I highly recommend learning how to take advantage of them. The best feature of the app is it allows offline maps - huge help when you're off the grid, which on a DR in NZ will happen often :)

If you're unfamiliar with topo, navigate over to topomap.co.nz and play around. Arguably the best feature for our types is that it is highly accurate showing gravel vs. tarmac, which is something you don't get out of Google maps.

I myself have been here about 1.5 yrs and put on about 6,000 km on the North Island and about 4,500 km on the South (I hold a full time job and here with a family, so my riding is limited) - there is no other place like NZ to ride, and everybody is super friendly as evidenced on KB.

Enjoy your time here!

[Micheken]

Canadians have an issue when travelling - we're mistaken for Americans. Not that Americans are bad - but certain countries like France, Cuba, etc have beefs with Americans and sometimes take that out on tourists. That's why I sewed a Canadian flag onto my backpack. Apparently that's not a big deal over here, but elsewhere it is since we're immediately judged whether or not we are nice people. I once drove in to a small town in Cuba and made sure to be waving a Canadian flag. Everyone was waving and whistling, but otherwise it might have gone another way.

But yeah Canadians can be really friendly - especially outside of the big cities. I'm from Victoria (on an island west of Vancouver) and the people there are ridiculously nice. When I moved there and got lost wandering around, people could tell and they would stop and tell me to get in so they could give me a lift home. So far, I feel like that would (and probably will) happen here too!


I'm kind of a map nut (past career), so for me there is an essential "don't leave home without it" app: Topo GPS NZ.

That app looks great. I was already using the MAPS.ME app which uses OpenStreetMap maps as a source (http://maps.me/en/home). I believe Topo GPS NZ uses the same source maps as well. They're amazingly detailed and anyone can contribute to them. I'll probably but that app, though, since it looks even better than mine. Actually, I also brought a Garmin GPS (a cheapo one that I'll waterproof using this trick: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2UvIoL78Cg), but it's always nice to have options - especially when you're out of network range and need some directions!

I'll be in the Auckland area (or an hour or two outside of it) for the next month or so in case anyone wants to show me the ropes of offroad riding - this is my first dual purpose...

Cheers,
Ryan

[Micheken]

I'm all set. Thanks for the advice everyone!

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/2877164/kiwibiker.JPG

[george formby]

No you're not. Where's the sheepskin?

[Moi]

The man's from west of the Rockies which explains why there are no snowshoes strapped to the bike... :laugh:

Enjoy your riding and exploring...

[george formby]

The man's from west of the Rockies which explains why there are no snowshoes strapped to the bike... :laugh:

Enjoy your riding and exploring...

Quite a steed for the task. Not sure why there is an old fashioned land line phone on the bars. Be hard to get your fingers in the little holes with gloves on.

[RainMan303]

Actually, I also brought a Garmin GPS (a cheapo one that I'll waterproof using this trick: [...] but it's always nice to have options - especially when you're out of network range and need some directions!


I have a similar Garmin that I got as a gift. Must say while it does have some limited entertainment value (e.g., current GPS speed, speed camera warning, current posted speed limit), I stopped relying on it for navigation for various reasons when adventure touring (still works well for general travel with family). Once it even took me to a locked gate near Taupo after about 30-40 km on gravel and running on fumes. I could walk over to State Highway 5 on the other side, but was not able to get my KTM 990 to the other side - apparently I was on the _inside_ of a restricted area. It was pretty funny when I came across some security guards - lol.

[Tazz]

Do it.
You will meet plenty of people who will lend you tools, beds, workshop space etc for maintenance when required mate. NZ is a pretty friendly place.

[Shadowjack]

Quite a steed for the task. Not sure why there is an old fashioned land line phone on the bars. Be hard to get your fingers in the little holes with gloves on.

I can answer this one!! - it's an up-to-date original design feature from when the bike was originally designed. And, yes... however, by the time the rotary dial has activated the call, the reason for the call has usually been resolved.

[Big Dog]

https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Ekiwibiker%2Eco%2E nz%2Fforums%2Fshowthread%2Ephp%3Fp%3D1130998127&share_tid=170480&share_fid=15868&share_type=t&share_pid=1130998127
RemoteMoto.com - The New Zealand Diaries

Sent from Tapatalk. DYAC

[Micheken]

Sheepskin...blame the kiwi who sold it to me? Also blame the airport customs...all visitors receive a free sheep upon arrival, right?Sargent seat is pretty comfortable.

The orange telephone cord is my personal "don't let the lock destroy your caliper" reminder...very high tech.

Staying near Whatipu tonight...sweet ride out there so far!

Cheers
Ryan

[jafagsx250]

Since you have a dirt bike I recommend you go to lake ototoa. Dirt and Sandy roads and a nice lake at the end from what I've heard. Kai iwi lakes is nice too.

Sent from my GT-I9506 using Tapatalk

[Micheken]

Since you have a dirt bike I recommend you go to lake ototoa. Dirt and Sandy roads and a nice lake at the end from what I've heard. Kai iwi lakes is nice too.

Thanks I'll give those a shot. I'm staying in Muriwai for a few weeks so I'll head out to those places on the weekends...cheers

[sidecar bob]

Canadians have an issue when travelling - we're mistaken for Americans.

Kiwis travelling in America get mistaken for Australians, that's not great either, as they can't play rugby.
Recently when in LA, a local asked us where we were from, when we said New Zealand the guy said, "oh, yeah, Melbourne, we know"

[jafagsx250]

Thanks I'll give those a shot. I'm staying in Muriwai for a few weeks so I'll head out to those places on the weekends...cheers

Post some photos of your trip. It's always nice to see parts of the country I've never seen before.

[neels]

You've picked a great time to come, weather at the moment is awesome.

If you find yourself heading through christchurch and need a bed and/or a reasonably well equipped garage give me a shout.

[Micheken]

http://onlytammy.ca/Pictures/FullSizeRender.jpg

http://onlytammy.ca/Pictures/FullSizeRender_1.jpg

http://onlytammy.ca/Pictures/FullSizeRender_2.jpg

http://onlytammy.ca/Pictures/FullSizeRender_3.jpg

http://onlytammy.ca/Pictures/IMG_0165.JPG

http://onlytammy.ca/Pictures/IMG_0168.JPG

http://onlytammy.ca/Pictures/IMG_0257.JPG

[Big Dog]

Bastard.

Here's me stuck in an office.

Awesome pics.

Sent from Tapatalk. DYAC

[Jeff Sichoe]

wow this is one of the first threads i've read on kiwibiker where someone actually comes through and does what they say they are gonna do!

nice one

[Micheken]

wow this is one of the first threads i've read on kiwibiker where someone actually comes through and does what they say they are gonna do!

Shit - so all those offers of tools and places to stay aren't legit? Suppose that's why I bought that tent!

[neels]

Shit - so all those offers of tools and places to stay aren't legit? Suppose that's why I bought that tent!
I think he means that you actually turned up here to go for a ride.....

[Jeff Sichoe]

yup :)


10char

[Micheken]

How could I not? Best place to ride on earth...

[BMWGSER]

Using a vehicle does give you more options, what if you want to mtb bike as well, or something else requiring gear. Securing gear while tramping (obviously doesn't stop people breaking in), or you have to drop the gear at accommodation. Day on day of miserable rain, it is easier in a vehicle.

Budget accommodation options: http://www.bbh.co.nz/

You definitely want to get off the sealed roads, that's where you'll see the best bits. Motorcycles are far more enjoyable for that.

Can't You strap Your push bike on the back Gremlin? Thought that's what the custom rack with running boards was for.

[jjc839]

If you're in Taranaki, and you should be at some point to ride the forgotten world highway, I'm a canuck in new plymouth. Welcome to a hot shower here anytime. I'll even ride with ya for a day on your way out.

Jeff

Sent from my SM-J200Y using Tapatalk

[MrMarko]

If you find yourself up here you're welcome to take a couch eh.

[Micheken]

Thanks for the offers everyone - I'll definitely start taking you guys up on those soon!

[Micheken]

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/2877164/Kiwibiker%20posted%20pics/Oct24/IMG_0344.JPG

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/2877164/Kiwibiker%20posted%20pics/Oct24/IMG_0501.JPG

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/2877164/Kiwibiker%20posted%20pics/Oct24/IMG_0725.JPG

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/2877164/Kiwibiker%20posted%20pics/Oct24/IMG_0776.JPG

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/2877164/Kiwibiker%20posted%20pics/Oct24/IMG_0907.JPG

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/2877164/Kiwibiker%20posted%20pics/Oct24/IMG_0928.JPG

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/2877164/Kiwibiker%20posted%20pics/Oct24/IMG_0979.JPG

For the love of god...wave back!

[jafagsx250]

I wouldn't bother waving to Harley Davidson owners lol.

Sent from my GT-I9506 using Tapatalk

[Micheken]

I wouldn't bother waving to Harley Davidson owners lol.

Yep - same thing in Canada...

[russd7]

I wouldn't bother waving to Harley Davidson owners lol.

Sent from my GT-I9506 using Tapatalk

why not?
its like waving to someone pushing a wheel barrow, real funny when they wave back.

actually, i wave to all, i Don't care what bike they are on and most wave back or give the ole head nod

[Tazz]

I'm all set. Thanks for the advice everyone!

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.co

Waka yeah!

[EJK]

You need to be on a super sports/ superbike to get waves! Oh, don't forget matching color leather suits :bleh:

Nice photos! I'm bookmarking this thread.

[Micheken]

You need to be on a super sports/ superbike to get waves!

Valid argument - my bike looks like a bunch of random pieces of metal welded together. Ugh...makes me miss my SV1000...

[jafagsx250]

why not?
its like waving to someone pushing a wheel barrow, real funny when they wave back.

actually, i wave to all, i Don't care what bike they are on and most wave back or give the ole head nod

Because they never wave back when I wave. I usually do it anyway.