Tt2000 2017

[PistonBlown]

Well the checkpoints have been announced.

Formats changed a bit this year so one start point (Christchurch) and two finish points (Dunedin or Picton). Looks like the checkpoints are in 4 clusters this year in a kind of compass points layout.

Finish times been opened up so there is not the midday deadline on the Sunday. Kind of a shame that one as I had been planning this year on my personal challenge to be a minimum 3,200km's within the 48 hour deadline. However I'm sure I'll find it challenging enough:-)

There's the usual four mystery checkouts this year and they look as fiendish as last year. Recognise one (Mystery 2) and another looks familiar but two others have got me stumped at the moment. Too early to start swapping hints yet though:-)

http://www.tt2000.org/

[veldthui]

Well the checkpoints have been announced.

Formats changed a bit this year so one start point (Christchurch) and two finish points (Dunedin or Picton). Looks like the checkpoints are in 4 clusters this year in a kind of compass points layout.

Finish times been opened up so there is not the midday deadline on the Sunday. Kind of a shame that one as I had been planning this year on my personal challenge to be a minimum 3,200km's within the 48 hour deadline. However I'm sure I'll find it challenging enough:-)

There's the usual four mystery checkouts this year and they look as fiendish as last year. Recognise one (Mystery 2) and another looks familiar but two others have got me stumped at the moment. Too early to start swapping hints yet though:-)

http://www.tt2000.org/

You will need at least 1 mystery location to get enough points if doing the upper 3 clusters. If not you will be 3,000 short. I found #4 pretty easy but it was way down south so no good to me. The pier looks very familiar though I bet it will be down south as well when I find it.

[wpoll]

You will need at least 1 mystery location to get enough points if doing the upper 3 clusters. If not you will be 3,000 short. I found #4 pretty easy but it was way down south so no good to me. The pier looks very familiar though I bet it will be down south as well when I find it.

We're not THAT mean! :msn-wink:

The Mystery Checkpoints are evenly spread around the island. That's all I'm saying. :shutup:

The idea is to make this ride fun - not impossible. And it is fun. I know, because I've just done most of it! :niceone:

[PistonBlown]

We're not THAT mean! :msn-wink:

The Mystery Checkpoints are evenly spread around the island. That's all I'm saying. :shutup:

The idea is to make this ride fun - not impossible. And it is fun. I know, because I've just done most of it! :niceone:

You're making it harder for me this year though - after the 2015 TT when I put a stone though my belt which cost me $750 to replace I decided no more gravel roads. This year for 11 of the check points involve riding at least a bit of gravel.

So if I avoid all the gravel ones I've worked out I'll do about 4000km and only getting 53,500 points!

Better find some more of the mystery check points, of course the only one I recognize....has got gravel.

[wpoll]

After the 2016 TT event, a few riders commented the event was too easy. An equal number commented it was too hard. Some wanted more mystery checkpoints, some wanted less. A few riders wanted to avoid gravel but some looked for routes that provided more gravel sections.

So in the tried and true tradition of event organisers the world over, we have tried to give everyone a little of what they wanted and in the end we'll probably end up pleasing no one. :weird:

I think Mike was pretty good at getting the balance right. I've certainly spent a good long while trying to match the planning skills of the master throttle twister but at the end of the day, I'm just glad we have kept the event alive.

On the checkpoints with only short gravel sections to the actual photo site, near enough is going to be good enough... :scooter:

And I never imagined a Spyder would attempt One One!

[PistonBlown]

Don't worry I've given up my "no gravel plan" and will just try and be careful, part of the fun is having a different challenge each year.

Perhaps I need to make up a fully enclosed belt guard similar to the guards Honda C90's used to have:-)

Must admit I'm quite envious of the adventure bikes this time because they'll have a lot of nice little routes to take.

....funny enough One One is on my possible list but beginning to think that may be a bad idea:-)

[veldthui]

You will need at least 1 mystery location to get enough points if doing the upper 3 clusters. If not you will be 3,000 short. I found #4 pretty easy but it was way down south so no good to me. The pier looks very familiar though I bet it will be down south as well when I find it.

Well I will be buggered. Found #3 (the pier) along my path so have a 1,000 points to spare now with hitting everything in the upper 3 clusters. Saturday will be a long day. Thought the pier looked familiar but it was not where I thought it was and took many hours searching with google maps.:lol:

Pretty sure I have #2 as well now. Was rather easy to find given most rail lines are shut down in the South Island. Just #1 left to find but guessing that is in the Southern half.

[whatastoner]

So the pier would be in the Northern group. It does look familiar, will have to ask my Marlborough Sounds riding buddy to have a look see. The one that's teasing me is Number 4.

[veldthui]

So the pier would be in the Northern group. It does look familiar, will have to ask my Marlborough Sounds riding buddy to have a look see. The one that's teasing me is Number 4.

Yes there does not appear to be any google images of it but I missed it 12 times at work before I got it.

[FJRider]

Yes there does not appear to be any google images of it but I missed it 12 times at work before I got it.

It IS there, 250 meters north Heading towards Picton from Tanglewoods bed and breakfast. First corner even ...

[PistonBlown]

Ok, as we seem to already at the giving hints stage...I'll start off being slightly obscure.

Mystery 2:
- It's not in the east cluster, but equally not in the west.
- The colour of the bridge is important
- You can't see it on Google street view but it is in one of those Google 'photo spheres'.

[Emptywallet]

I love this event - last year was our first. We did the minimum, and photographed all our checkpoints in daylight.
This year is ... a bit different. I can see how much planning has gone in though - well done.

I've got all four Mysteries sorted now, and can use of three of them.
Made a quick plan, heading west and south, and it looks do-able, just. A long 2nd day though (aren't they always).
The gravel sections add another dimension, especially with a pillion, but they're mostly short sections.
Actually the Sunday is going to be quite full on for us as well, with the checkpoints well spread.
Still deciding which bike to use ...

[eldog]

What's doing the TT2000 like?
whats involved in getting prepared?

thinking about rider related answers

going to see if I can figure out the course even if I am unable to do it (time)
looks like fun.:niceone:

[PistonBlown]

What's doing the TT2000 like?
whats involved in getting prepared?

thinking about rider related answers

going to see if I can figure out the course even if I am unable to do it (time)
looks like fun.:niceone:

What's doing TT2000 like?
The TT2000 is the most fun you can have on a bike (or trike) in a weekend.
Its for people who have a motorbike to ride it and are happiest in that perfect state of oneness with bike, road and landscape.
It's spending, surprisingly enjoyable, hours of planning and tweaking the route, stops etc (not to mention tracking down the mystery checkpoints).
The formats loose enough that, though there's the set checkpoints and targets, you can also have your own.
You often ride solo but at many of the checkpoints you meet other riders and chat, or wave as you see others riding the other way. An unusual fraternity.

What's involved in getting prepared?
Route planning is the obvious one, including stops - for me petrol stops are a big issue because my tank is stupidly small for this sort of work.
Doing practice rides with checkpoints is a must. Make sure some of these are with unfamiliar roads.
It's surprising how much time you loose at checkpoints if your not careful and it really adds up, think formula 1 pit team:-)
Also the practice rides give you a chance to find out what works and what doesn't e.g. I modified my tank bag to make changing notes much easier.
Obviously your bike needs to be in good working order.

My only warning is - once you've done one you'll be addicted.

[PistonBlown]

Ok...

All 4 mystery checkpoints worked out. The one I struggled with turned out to be somewhere I'd ridden past numerous times.

I've even go a very rough route worked out.

My personal challenges for this year will be...

Get a higher score than last year
Do more km's than last year
Visit all 4 mystery checkpoints
Do One One (this challenge is your fault Wayne:-))

[wpoll]

Do One One (this challenge is your fault Wayne:-))


Guilty as charged, your honour...

Gotta warn you that One One is pretty rough (when I was there in May - it might change by Feb. 2017), with a short section about 1km from the end that had rocks about the size of baseballs all over it - like a sort of rough river bed. What I would call a "technical section". :ride:

It's perfect negotiable on any road bike (it wouldn't be on the list if it wasn't) but add another 5-10mins to your schedule! :msn-wink:

[wpoll]

BTW, any veterans of the 2015 event will think that the 2017 gravel sections are mild compared to 2015s Aspiring, Mt. Algidus and Klondyke checkpoints. :facepalm:

Boy, was I cursing the rally master late on Saturday night, in the dusk, from the middle of a farmer's paddock where the road to Klondyke (or so I thought) had just faded out existance. By the time I got accosted by the cocky's wife and explained my way off the property, found the correct road and stumbled my way up Klondyke Terrace (without falling in the canal - just) and found the gate, it was full dark. And then I had to turn around and do it again, in reverse.

I made up some new names for rally masters that night.. not nice ones either! :angry:

I was about an hour behind on my schedule after that and stopped one CP early that night. Good thing too, as I had barely gotten my tent up at the Mt. Somers campground and the heavens opened... The TT gods were smiling on me, although I didn't feel it was so at the time. I was so dejected at being behind (and the fact that it was raining) that I considered ditching Mt. Algidus the next morning and just heading for the finish. But I did it and I'm so glad, as the Mt. Algidus CP was the highlight of the day. :Punk:

[STJim]

Have been sitting here very carefully looking at a proposed route. I am lucky I had the assistance of Jantar who is here with us at present. Finally got number 4 this afternoon. It's no use to me but it is to him. The other 3 weren't to difficult.

[whatastoner]

Malcolm's gonna join us this time? Been running through some potential routes for the eastern section to avoid city traffic times and shortest distance obviously.

North Island 1600km October 8th. Great event with like minded riders. Give it a go.

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[GrayWolf]

And I never imagined a Spyder would attempt One One!


HEY !! :pinch: After doing the 1000 miler on an MT-01, there's something to be said about taking 'weird/different' on trips... And have done 5 weeks touring down south in the last 2yrs {by spyder}.. be warned, there is an 'urge' building to do the 1000 on a spyder.....

:innocent::innocent::innocent::innocent:

[Gremlin]

... be warned, there is an 'urge' building to do the 1000 on a spyder.....
Has it got a good gas range? ;):innocent:

[GrayWolf]

Has it got a good gas range? ;):innocent:

:moon: yes it does, just over 300k to a tankful ridden 'steady',,, you just HAD to bring that up huh? :o

[whatastoner]

I think he may be suggesting there is is a long stretch between fuel stops on this year's NI1600.
Or he likes winding you up...

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[GrayWolf]

I think he may be suggesting there is is a long stretch between fuel stops on this year's NI1600.
Or he likes winding you up...

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lol no, it was the 'joke' of that 1000miler, I was the rider with the 'tiny one' they had to make an 'adjustment for'.... 15ltrs on a 1700cc V twin {stage 2}, was lucky to get 200km before 'fuel light' if ridden like a 'nana'.

[whatastoner]

I remember now.

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[PistonBlown]

:moon: yes it does, just over 300k to a tankful ridden 'steady',,, you just HAD to bring that up huh? :o

How is that possible on an RS?? I'm looking for a petrol station at 220 and in a panic at 240:-) Mind you I've never really learnt this 'steady' thing you speak of:-)


I think he may be suggesting there is is a long stretch between fuel stops on this year's NI1600.
Or he likes winding you up...

Your right that is a bit of an issue this year in places. However having learnt my lesson last year in Greymouth when the only 24 hour petrol station was out of action - I'll have two 5litre petrol cans in each pannier and another 10 litre one in the frunk (front storage on a Spyder). Basically I'll be a 3 wheeled fuel bouser:-)

[PistonBlown]

Malcolm's gonna join us this time? Been running through some potential routes for the eastern section to avoid city traffic times and shortest distance obviously.
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I'm planning on skipping Godley Head just because I can't face riding through Christchurch, do enough of that as it is and it would just wind me up at the start. Particularly as I don't have the option of lane splitting.

[whatastoner]

Yeah the Godley Head one is a pain especially due to the road closures.

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[PistonBlown]

Yeah the Godley Head one is a pain especially due to the road closures.

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Just to warn out of towners who may not know what we're referring to:

Sumner Road between Lyttleton and Godley Head Park has been closed since the shakes - a lot of GPS systems don't know this so will try and send you that way (including Basecamp). According to Highways the road will not be open until 31 March 2018. Main Road out to Sumner also tends to have a lot of roadworks/contra flows on it. So there's a good reason why that one is a 4000 pointer:-)

[Gremlin]

Your right that is a bit of an issue this year in places. However having learnt my lesson last year in Greymouth when the only 24 hour petrol station was out of action - I'll have two 5litre petrol cans in each pannier and another 10 litre one in the frunk (front storage on a Spyder). Basically I'll be a 3 wheeled fuel bouser:-)
And to think I got hassled for having a 18L auxiliary tank on the back seat. :crazy: Everyone said they'd see the cloud if I went off the road.

Night time availability of gas is always one of the biggest tests when trying to ride big distance, be it 24hr 1000 miles, or doing night work for TT (especially with the distances in the South Island at night, with no gas - especially when your European bike doesn't want the cheap stuff).

I eliminated the problem by having the GSA with 36-38L. I budget 600km when moving at pace (has a bit spare), but being economical I can go beyond 700km (variance also increases with increased range). One TT (whatastoner will remember that), leaving Chch I rode through the night, taking in Danseys and Hakataramea, fueling in Ranfurly (a pump was available 24hrs) in the early hours, and that carried me through to Invercargill in the morning.

[GrayWolf]

How is that possible on an RS?? I'm looking for a petrol station at 220 and in a panic at 240:-) Mind you I've never really learnt this 'steady' thing you speak of:-)

yes I am looking for fuel around 260-270 and the just over 300 is 'just that'....EMPTY!
Possibly also as mine is the later model, the tuning is different from the earlier ones...... only 100bhp and torque much lower down the rev range, and I think 'more of it'.. I suspect it's the 'old' RT ignition curve, or very close to it.

I've not ridden the 'S' full tilt for a tankful, to see the consumption level.

[PistonBlown]

yes I am looking for fuel around 260-270 and the just over 300 is 'just that'....EMPTY!
Possibly also as mine is the later model, the tuning is different from the earlier ones...... only 100bhp and torque much lower down the rev range, and I think 'more of it'.. I suspect it's the 'old' RT ignition curve, or very close to it.

I've not ridden the 'S' full tilt for a tankful, to see the consumption level.

Yep the earlier ones like mine are rev happy and drink petrol like it's the 6 o'clock swill.

Probably not helped by me removing the airbox and fitting a JT filter instead - but the induction roar makes it worth it:-)

Gremlin - If I'm able to go back to 2 wheels again one day I think I'll have to get an adventure bike with a massive Paris-Dakar style petrol tank like that - just for the joy of not having to stop at every sodding petrol station.

[Gremlin]

Gremlin - If I'm able to go back to 2 wheels again one day I think I'll have to get an adventure bike with a massive Paris-Dakar style petrol tank like that - just for the joy of not having to stop at every sodding petrol station.
I remember my previous KTM, as much fun as it was, and I could go a little over 200km to a tank (220-240km ish), I do remember that every time I was filling, I was thinking about where the next stop was :oi-grr: The beauty of the BMW, is that for a typical/normal day, it won't be over 600km. I can fill in the morning, then head wherever I want with no services, and know I'll usually still have gas at the end of the day. So for adventure riding, I don't need to come back out, get gas, go back in, etc.

Doing Auckland to Picton on a tank is pretty neat too :innocent:

[Stretch Butler]

HEY !! :pinch: After doing the 1000 miler on an MT-01, there's something to be said about taking 'weird/different' on trips..And have done 5 weeks touring down south in the last 2yrs {by spyder}.. be warned, there is an 'urge' building to do the 1000 on a spyder.....

:innocent::innocent::innocent::innocent:
GIdday fella, yeah thousand miler was a awesome experience, empty oh one, maybe not the best choice, but collectively we got around with each others help, enjoyed the experience, look forward to catching up maybe next month. 😊

[PistonBlown]

...be warned, there is an 'urge' building to do the 1000 on a spyder...

Hey just noticed this, I hope your not planning to steal my claim to fame of being the first Spyder to do the NI1600;-)

[GrayWolf]

GIdday fella, yeah thousand miler was a awesome experience, empty oh one, maybe not the best choice, but collectively we got around with each others help, enjoyed the experience, look forward to catching up maybe next month. 😊

Hey Stretch, well the MT is 'long gone'... the CB would make it 'too easy' can get about 350 from a tank {maybe not at the speeds we were doing in the early stages though} {GREMLIN you are banned from reading that!!!}


Hey just noticed this, I hope your not planning to steal my claim to fame of being the first Spyder to do the NI1600;-)

if it's this year? your safe..... already got a weekender arranged the weekend before.... Riding to Stratford then Stratford/Tauramanui to Napier, overnight, then back to Welly with another Spyder (RTs) and a couple of bikes.
Cant get BOTH weekends off from work sadly. :angry2: but will look at the C1000 for time off.

[outdoorguy]

The TT2000 will surely be different this year - the 4 points will make it hard to collect a massive number
Struggling with the mystery checkpoint of the building with the red roof .... Check point 1 any ideas ?

Plenty of time to plan , was hoping to get the clean sweep next year ( the 2017 will be my second one)

Anyone ride 650's or 690's around Canterbury ? I passed a guy at Lake Lindon last week on his own but was pushed for time so did not stop

Cheers all

[whatastoner]

Yep. It's going to be all but impossible to get all Checkpoints this year. Just getting all the points around Christchurch will take five plus hours. Then add the commute to Gore, there's just not enough hours in the day.
If you enjoy riding on the peninsula, you've passed the red roof many times. That may have been Cynna on kiwibiker you saw up lake lyndon. XT660Z.
Our TT2000 strategy is to ride until late on the Friday. A good nights sleep, well six hours maybe. Start at 6am on Saturday and go right through to Sunday's finish with a catnap at the first sign of real fatigue on Sat night. Each to their own but it works for us

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[outdoorguy]

Yep. It's going to be all but impossible to get all Checkpoints this year. Just getting all the points around Christchurch will take five plus hours. Then add the commute to Gore, there's just not enough hours in the day.
If you enjoy riding on the peninsula, you've passed the red roof many times. That may have been Cynna on kiwibiker you saw up lake lyndon. XT660Z.
Our TT2000 strategy is to ride until late on the Friday. A good nights sleep, well six hours maybe. Start at 6am on Saturday and go right through to Sunday's finish with a catnap at the first sign of real fatigue on Sat night. Each to their own but it works for us

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LOL I know but... I can't recall it might have to corner slower on my left handers aye


If the advernture rider I saw up lyndon way is looking for a riding buddy - sing out KTM 690R

[whatastoner]

My xr650r will be running in a few weeks. I'll be in touch.

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[PistonBlown]

Concur on the checkpoints this year. I did have a vague idea about doing them all this time before they got published but that's just not possible for me, particularly as I want to stick to the 48 hours limit.

With my original draft I was thinking of going anti-clockwise, finishing in Dunedin but I've now had a rethink and decided to go clockwise instead finishing in Picton. This is mainly so I can do the Haast Pass road in daylight as I don't get a chance to ride that one very often.

Red roof one - Possibly you're more likely to be checking your speedo than your cornering speeds at that point:-)

PS this was the one I got stuck on, then kicked myself when I realized where it was.

[NiggleC]

i got mystery checkpoints 1,2,3 within a few seconds of looking at them but 4 has me stumped. Even showed it to all the swede munchers at work and they didn't, know either. Like Piston Blown I'm thinking about the run up Haast Pass on Saturday. I have only ridden it twice. 1986 when parts were a dirt road and 2008 on the mini returns ride.

[outdoorguy]

Found the last one now - thanks you to you know who :-) Can't reply to private message as not been here long enough

[outdoorguy]

#4
Search/think Southland house made of bottles

[FJRider]

Can't reply to private message as not been here long enough

More to do with your post count .. not "time served". Keep posting ...

[outdoorguy]

Okay - thanks will do

[PistonBlown]

Slightly unrelated to the TT2000 but as you're all knowledgeable about finding your way to checkpoints...

Doing my first NI 1600 in 3 weeks. I know my way around the SI very well - lost my day 2 notes at last years TT and still found all the checkpoints:-). However I've only ridden in the NI twice, so I've now finally got myself a GPS system which I've been trying to master. It's a Garmin unit and I use Basecamp for the route planning and worked out how to do multiple checkpoint routes.

I have found it's not great at alerting me on the screen that I'm at a check point and soon just starts directing me to the next one. Seems it would be very easy to miss a checkpoint just by riding past it.

Anyone know how to get it to make more of a fuss at checkpoints? Or is it just easier to just plan each checkpoint run as a separate trip?

Just to mention that I'm also a bit deaf, so often don't hear it, hence why I rely on the screen.

[Gremlin]

I remember in the past that many GPS units were limited in memory and capacity, so setting a route to each checkpoint was the only option. This is certainly an option and also means you don't have the whole route in one hit if you have issues with it.

You can also set each checkpoint as a Waypoint, but if you've missed that sort of prompt in the past, then yeah, reaching the end of the route might be better :D

When plotting the route, start with start and finish, then insert a point half way, on the correct road (say an intersection), to "nudge" the route where you want it. Keep inserting extra points until the GPS has no option but to use the roads required. For the most part, the distance is calculated on using the most efficient route, so you're mostly unlikely to do better (sometimes there are gravel shortcuts, but you'll pay in time instead). This is quicker than scrolling through the whole route dropping points on the map.

Also, based on previous riders, if you're on an actual gravel road for any extended period, you're probably not in the right place ... aiming this slightly at a GS that did Waikaremoana (around 100km of gravel) because they missed a turn on one NI1600 :lol:

[outdoorguy]

I think one of the best reasons to have individual start to point A then point A to point B etc singularly is a couple of times in the NI roads ares closed , detours in marketed and the unit does not seem to get confused in these instances.
I use a Garmin Map62 I think it is , no sound just visual in front of me , perhaps it's time for an upgrade but between the Garmin units , the open source ability re maps and Basecamp it all works


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[wpoll]

I never put routes into my Garmin - only waypoints. I let the Garmin auto-route on the day. I've found the routing in BaseCamp and the routing in the GPS differs enough to make it problematic, even when using the same map set in each environment.

For the TT event, I figure out my route and which checkpoints I'm going to visit, then I duplicate it all in BaseCamp. I then rename each checkpoint based on the order I'm going to travel to them - 001 for the first checkpoint, 002 for the next and so on.

One the day, at the start of the TT, I call up waypoint (checkpoint) 001 and hit GoTo. At that checkpoint, after I've taken the photo, I select 002 and hit GoTo. Rinse and repeat... :brick:

The advantage of this is you only ever see the time/distance to the next checkpoint - it's easier to ride 2,000kms in small chunks and you never see "1731kms to go" on your GPS!! :crazy:

Also, you can take detours on the way to any checkpoint and the GPS won't have a meltdown (as it would if it was following a set route) - it'll just re-route to the next checkpoint from wherever you happen to be.

I've found this method works well on a simple GPS like mine (a Garmin 60CSx with NZ opengps maps). ;)

[Gremlin]

The advantage of this is you only ever see the time/distance to the next checkpoint - it's easier to ride 2,000kms in small chunks and you never see "1731kms to go" on your GPS!! :crazy:
I can confirm the Zumo 660 did not like a 24hr+ route at all... :laugh: It crashed several times (reboot did the trick) and got happier once it got under 24 hrs.

[PistonBlown]

Thanks for the feed back on the GPS stuff.

You've confirmed my suspicions about the multi-checkpoint routes and that I'm best sticking with routes to single checkpoints rather than trying to do the whole thing.

Good idea about adding a number to the front of the points to force the order. Makes a lot of sense, particularly when trying to remember the order of unfamiliar places at 4am.

I've been playing with basecamp and the GPS quite a bit over the last few weeks and you're right wpoll out of the box when you copy a route from Basecamp to the GPS it often changes it. I found the only way to get it to stick to a route was to:

Use Gremlin's approach of adding extra waypoints to force the route - I found you can set them to no alert in basecamp which means when they are copied to the Garmin they don't show up but they continue to force the route.
The map version needs to be exactly the same on both (this really messed me up for a while)
In basecamp settings untick 'Strip shaping points from routes on transfer to device'
Fiddle with the average speed settings to even them out more for the three highway settings


Of course I've been testing this on roads I know, the real test will be in the NI - but as someone said in a previous TT thread, if you hit the coast you know it's time to turn around:-)

[SkinnylaVeal]

Ok...

All 4 mystery checkpoints worked out. The one I struggled with turned out to be somewhere I'd ridden past numerous times.

I've even go a very rough route worked out.

My personal challenges for this year will be...

Get a higher score than last year
Do more km's than last year
Visit all 4 mystery checkpoints
Do One One (this challenge is your fault Wayne:-))


I have the same challenges. I was in the top 10 last year, want to improve on that. Seems if you do most of Banks Peninsular you're going to chew up a lot of time. For those with small tanks I've compiled this list of 24 hour petrol stations: http://www.thinman.co.nz/24-hour-petrol-stations/

Might help you all with the planning.

See you next year!
Skinny

[PistonBlown]

I have the same challenges. I was in the top 10 last year, want to improve on that. Seems if you do most of Banks Peninsular you're going to chew up a lot of time. For those with small tanks I've compiled this list of 24 hour petrol stations: http://www.thinman.co.nz/24-hour-petrol-stations/

Might help you all with the planning.

See you next year!
Skinny

Thanks for the link to your petrol stations map I'll be making use of that for my planning. Though as you can see from the attachment I will have a greater range this year:-)

Don't mind Banks as there's some nice twisties to ride to get into the swing of things. It's Godley Head that's my bugbear, I keep adding it in and removing it again. Just hate the idea of starting the TT2000 riding through ruddy Christchurch roadworks. I suspect I'll not make my mind up until 5 minutes before we set off.

[NiggleC]

Godley (on and off my list) should be slow but steady going as long as you are out of there before the Sumner area school pickup - 2.30ish. I keep thinking that there is a gate that shuts the place up for the night but its 7-8 years since i've been up there so will investigate further.

[NiggleC]

ok i tried the Yaldhurst Hotel to Godley Head thing yesterday. 46 minutes to cover the 36k's. It'll be worse during the week. There is a gate locked at 8pm but it's right at the checkpoint.

[whatastoner]

That sounds about right. You could spend four or five hours scooping up CP's around Christchurch and still have thousands of kms to go.

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[wpoll]

That sounds about right. You could spend four or five hours scooping up CP's around Christchurch and still have thousands of kms to go.

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Tell me about it.... :msn-wink:

[SkinnylaVeal]

Night time availability of gas is always one of the biggest tests when trying to ride big distance, be it 24hr 1000 miles, or doing night work for TT (especially with the distances in the South Island at night, with no gas - especially when your European bike doesn't want the cheap stuff).

Problem solved for gas availability - I put together a Google Map of all 24 hour petrol stations in NZ: http://www.thinman.co.nz/24-hour-petrol-stations/

[SkinnylaVeal]

Thanks for the link to your petrol stations map I'll be making use of that for my planning. Though as you can see from the attachment I will have a greater range this year:-)

Don't mind Banks as there's some nice twisties to ride to get into the swing of things. It's Godley Head that's my bugbear, I keep adding it in and removing it again. Just hate the idea of starting the TT2000 riding through ruddy Christchurch roadworks. I suspect I'll not make my mind up until 5 minutes before we set off.
Yeah, I was going to do everything on Banks Peninsular but now thinking that I'll leave out Pigeon Bay unless I ride over gravel to Port Levy then Diamond Harbour/Governors Bay. I used to live in Chch and did a lot of riding around those roads, but having local knowledge post earthquakes is a real advantage over my knowledge.

To avoid afternoon traffic that suggests doing Godley Head first as someone suggested. I'll take that advice.

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[wpoll]

The Port Levy Pigeon Bay Road is brilliant! But maybe not one to tackle in the middle of the TT2000.

Or is it? The time saved on such a shortcut could be huge... :msn-wink:

[PistonBlown]

The Port Levy Pigeon Bay Road is brilliant! But maybe not one to tackle in the middle of the TT2000.

Or is it? The time saved on such a shortcut could be huge... :msn-wink:

You're right that is a lovely road and well worth riding just for the experience if you've not ridden it before (and got a suitable bike, which in theory counts me out again...but...:-)). But you need to be very careful on some sections - quite a few blind bends with nowhere to go if something suddenly appears the other way. Fortunately locals tend to treat it with respect but the odd tourist less so.

[PistonBlown]

Yeah, I was going to do everything on Banks Peninsular but now thinking that I'll leave out Pigeon Bay unless I ride over gravel to Port Levy then Diamond Harbour/Governors Bay. I used to live in Chch and did a lot of riding around those roads, but having local knowledge post earthquakes is a real advantage over my knowledge.

To avoid afternoon traffic that suggests doing Godley Head first as someone suggested. I'll take that advice.

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Local knowledge doesn't really help in Christchurch - it's like one of those kids sliding puzzles where every night someone mixes up all the pieces so the next day you never know which roads will be open, closed or at a standstill:-)

[insomnia01]

mystery CP 2 has me buggered certainly looks familliar :wacko: any hints etc is appreciated :grouphug: #1 & #3 I have #4 is not in my direction

[insomnia01]

mystery CP 2 has me buggered certainly looks familliar :wacko: any hints etc is appreciated :grouphug: #1 & #3 I have #4 is not in my direction

I think I found it - M.... Whi.. Brid.. o.. ..73 ??? anyone able to confirm???

[PistonBlown]

I think I found it - M.... Whi.. Brid.. o.. ..73 ??? anyone able to confirm???

That's the bunny:-)

[NiggleC]

Affirmative

[insomnia01]

That's the bunny:-)


Affirmative

thanks guys

[Captain.Carefree]

Got a north and south route sorted; probably heading S as I like the Southland roads but I'll watch what the weather is doing closer to the date. This'll be my 7th and I'm sticking to tradition and working on doing my route choices in 48 hours because for me that's what the TT has been all about. The extra 12 hours makes it very easy to do, but for those who've never done one, it's the ideal opportunity to have a go at planning and executing the ride. 48 hours is going to be a challenge because the three clusters of points are so spread out. Oh well, roll on February.

[veldthui]

I can confirm the Zumo 660 did not like a 24hr+ route at all... :laugh: It crashed several times (reboot did the trick) and got happier once it got under 24 hrs.

I split my tracks down to each day so had three tracks. My BMW NAV V (which is a Garmin in disguse) took them nicely

[Gremlin]

I split my tracks down to each day so had three tracks. My BMW NAV V (which is a Garmin in disguse) took them nicely
That was a single ride... 25.5hrs and 1850km, Friday night to Saturday night :D

[JMemonic]

Those of you who have planned a route up the East coast from start to Picton, that will take forever to get repaired if Christchurch roads are anything to go by. But this should go without saying.

[whatastoner]

I would imagine the majority of us would be heading west over Arthur's after picking off a few on the peninsula. We're heading south afterwards and then up the west to finish picton. Lucky choice I'd say.

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[PistonBlown]

I had looked at going up the east coast anti-clockwise ending up in Dunedin or going clockwise and ending up in Picton. In the end I decided on clockwise which is just as well.

Strangely enough when I was riding back from Picton after the NI1600 last month I slowed right down along the Kaikoura stretch as I was just enjoying looking at the scenery, sea etc. Normally I'm more focused on the road. Even stopped for a bit just to take it in. Pleased I did now.

[veldthui]

Those of you who have planned a route up the East coast from start to Picton, that will take forever to get repaired if Christchurch roads are anything to go by. But this should go without saying.

My issue will be getting from Picton to Christchurch to start. I arrive at 6am and expected 5 hour ride to Christchurch for the start. May have to look at alternative now. The rest of my ride should be okay.

[whatastoner]

Lets face it. SH1 south of Kaikoura is going to be shut for months. The road to Blenheim will be open so perhaps go inland Renwick to St Arnaud and down through Lewis. You may have to take an earlier ferry or hoof it. Racing down to the start is not the best way to begin the event though.

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[veldthui]

Lets face it. SH1 south of Kaikoura is going to be shut for months. The road to Blenheim will be open so perhaps go inland Renwick to St Arnaud and down through Lewis. You may have to take an earlier ferry or hoof it. Racing down to the start is not the best way to begin the event though.



Yeah. I just looked via google maps and it says it is the option. 457km so about 5.5 hour ride. Dont really want the early ferry as I booked the sleeper on the Bluebridge. I only have about a 6 hour ride for Friday at the start of the TT so the distance itself does not bother me having just completed the NI1600 and the 1KC. Just need to ensure I get there in time for the start.

[whatastoner]

I'm sure the starting time window could be extended. Say 12 to 2pm.

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[whatastoner]

In fact I always thought the start window was quite long. Need to look up previous TT's

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[wpoll]

I'm sure the starting time window could be extended. Say 12 to 2pm.

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True that...

You can start anytime you like, within reason (or until we finish our pie'n'pint at the Yaldy and bugger off!) and clock your journey time from that start time.

No penalty! :niceone:

[whatastoner]

There you are. Straight from the horses mouth.

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[banditrider]

Diamond Harbour to Pigeon Bay via Port Levy Road? Yes, there's gravel but 40km difference - will it save me time or is the gravel fairly slow in there?

[sir.taz]

Diamond Harbour to Pigeon Bay via Port Levy Road? Yes, there's gravel but 40km difference - will it save me time or is the gravel fairly slow in there?
I want to know the answer to this as well

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[wpoll]

Diamond Harbour to Pigeon Bay via Port Levy Road? Yes, there's gravel but 40km difference - will it save me time or is the gravel fairly slow in there?

I rode this road last May and it was pretty good. But I was on a Dakar, not a Bandit. There's a lot of sections that are bare clay and it would be a 'mare in the wet. In the dry you should be OK but it'll be slow, and there are many blind corners, so you need to keep a sharp eye on the road ahead.

So? What to do? :-)

[sir.taz]

I rode this road last May and it was pretty good. But I was on a Dakar, not a Bandit. There's a lot of sections that are bare clay and it would be a 'mare in the wet. In the dry you should be OK but it'll be slow, and there are many blind corners, so you need to keep a sharp eye on the road ahead.

So? What to do? :-)
Cheers for that

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[banditrider]

So? What to do? :-)

Exactly...the gravel doesn't worry me - I'm after a time saving...

[FJRider]

Yeah. I just looked via google maps and it says it is the option. 457km so about 5.5 hour ride. Dont really want the early ferry as I booked the sleeper on the Bluebridge. I only have about a 6 hour ride for Friday at the start of the TT so the distance itself does not bother me having just completed the NI1600 and the 1KC. Just need to ensure I get there in time for the start.

Word out at the moment is the road to Kaikoura from the north will be open in a week to ten days.

[whatastoner]

I was over the pigeon bay road today. The gravel on the port levy end is a little slippy for a few k's then gets much easier. Single track so be cautious of locals and tourists. Met one car on a blind corner. Thank god for ABS. The next stretch of gravel I encountered today was at the Taumutu CP. Recently graded so was thick as. Hideous.

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[PistonBlown]

I've ridden that road a couple of times on my Spyder and it was fine despite it not being its natural habitat. I'll be going that way this time if its dry - as wpoll suggested its a different story in the wet, particularly the steep downhill bit with the clay. As whatastoner and wpoll said take it careful with the blind corners, locals tend to be relatively careful but tourists less so.

[PistonBlown]

I was over the pigeon bay road today. The gravel on the port levy end is a little slippy for a few k's then gets much easier. Single track so be cautious of locals and tourists. Met one car on a blind corner. Thank god for ABS. The next stretch of gravel I encountered today was at the Taumutu CP. Recently graded so was thick as. Hideous.

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Thanks for the tip on the Taumutu, will be careful on that one. Not been able to do any rides to checkout CPs and routes this time like I normally would so just hoping I'm not going to have too many surprises. Haven't even had a chance to practice riding while drinking a milkshake:-)

[NiggleC]

I went out to Taumutu last friday (13th). Gravel was not nice but neither were the 3 large dogs at the checkpoint trying to take chunks out of my boots. Amazing how quick the owners appeared when i turned around and started chasing them......the dogs that is.

[whatastoner]

I'm going to alter my approach to the cp to reduce the gravel. And carry some sausages.

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[PistonBlown]

Been doing my tank bag cards for the checkpoint photos and feel really sorry for the checkers this year with my route - I'm hitting Taramakau, Crooked, Haupiri, Tobins Bridge, Otututu, Wai-iti and Pigeon Valley one after another on the same night. Going to be hard separating one night time photo of a bridge from another:-S

[whatastoner]

Which night will this be? Saturday?

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[whatastoner]

Doh. Of course it's Saturday night.
Likewise. Will be around Murchison around 3am I think

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[sir.taz]

Doh. Of course it's Saturday night.
Likewise. Will be around Murchison around 3am I think

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I'm hitting most of those on Friday night /Saturday morning before heading south

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[whatastoner]

We may pass somewhere down Southland way on Saturday lunchtime. Our route goes south friday.

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[sir.taz]

We may pass somewhere down Southland way on Saturday lunchtime. Our route goes south friday.

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Lol we usually pass each other at some point

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[whatastoner]

Yep. Usually. Will keep an eye open. I'm on a new bike this year. The new Africa Twin.

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[sir.taz]

Yep. Usually. Will keep an eye open. I'm on a new bike this year. The new Africa Twin.

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Lol must have been a year for it, I'm on a new bandit ;) looking forward to seeing you at the start and checking out your new bike, I was very nearly tempted by the Africa

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[whatastoner]

See you there.

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[PistonBlown]

Doh. Of course it's Saturday night.
Likewise. Will be around Murchison around 3am I think

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whatastoner - Yep that's right it will be Saturday night as I'm doing a similar route to you going clockwise around. Probably be hitting that area a bit earlier though as I've ended up altering my route a bit and cutting some checkpoints from my original plan. I've not had any chance to do test runs of the route or checkpoints as I've been unable to ride for 3 months, as a result I've decided to take it a bit easier.

Skinny - A big thanks for your 24 hour petrol map, saved me heaps of time when planning my route not having to try and find the info for each one.

sir.tas - His new Africa Twin is a lovely bike and I was a bit jealous when I saw it if truth be told - but let's not let on:-)

[sir.taz]

I have set up a android database for those that wish to have the data on their phone, you can't send the data to TTHQ like you can with my iPhone app, and it is a bit more complicated to set up initially but for those who wish to use it I have attached the instructions here (hopefully it works as I'm on my phone)

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[Captain.Carefree]

I went out to Taumutu last friday (13th). Gravel was not nice but neither were the 3 large dogs at the checkpoint trying to take chunks out of my boots. Amazing how quick the owners appeared when i turned around and started chasing them......the dogs that is.

Yep, have done the same just to see where it is and the 'Busa's front end was not very happy getting there.
Didn't see the dogs though. Suggest thems what gets there first feed them sausages laced with laxative.
Anyway the excitement is building. Route sorted. Cards done. Taking it easy this year, just doing the absolute minimum for a change as I'm away to sea Monday morning and need a clear head.

[PistonBlown]

Finally got to ride some of the checkpoints this weekend.

For Tuamutu I found it easiest approach via Leeston Tuamutu Road rather than Lower Lake Road as this meant only a short stretch of gravel. Also one side of the road from that direction is relatively gravel free. No dogs to report on my visit:-)

Photo of bridge at Halwell Canal was taken from the west side of the bridge. I couldn't work out why it looked different to the photo at first until the penny dropped:-) Wayne - I'm guessing it's not a problem if the photos taken on the wrong (east) side?

[wpoll]

Finally got to ride some of the checkpoints this weekend.

For Tuamutu I found it easiest approach via Leeston Tuamutu Road rather than Lower Lake Road as this meant only a short stretch of gravel. Also one side of the road from that direction is relatively gravel free. No dogs to report on my visit:-)

Photo of bridge at Halwell Canal was taken from the west side of the bridge. I couldn't work out why it looked different to the photo at first until the penny dropped:-) Wayne - I'm guessing it's not a problem if the photos taken on the wrong (east) side?

As long as the photo is identifiable as the correct location, it'll get the tick. Last year a bunch of riders where on the wrong bank of the Clutha River at the Clutha Ferry CP but we weren't going to take points off them for that small error. Even though the whole point of that CP was to force riders to figure a route that took them down the south bank of the Clutha - I guess it was too subtle!

Most CPs aren't that sneaky - and any view will do. :scooter:

[whatastoner]

Should have docked them points in this case. Cp was definately west bank.
I'm having a hard time memorizing the cp photos this year. I've installed Shannon's android app which will help if there's mobile coverage. Otherwise a paper backup it is.
Not long now peeps, time for one more night ride.

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[whatastoner]

Just putting it out there. Any one fancy a night ride Saturday? Perhaps CHCH Darfield Inland route to Geraldine and back. Would be good to get one in before TT time.

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[PistonBlown]

Wayne - Halswell one looks very similar from either direction anyway:-)

Whatastoner - I think it's because there's a number of similar looking bridges this time which makes it hard to remember. I had the same issue when I organised a smaller version of the TT for Spyder riders. To get people onto the good roads I ended up with several bridges as checkpoints as they were the only suitable landmarks. Going to be using the GPS this year rather than written notes but have still printed the photo's of each checkpoint just so I can confirm I'm at the right place. Re Sat night - I'm on call this weekend but I'll check tomorrow if anyone is willing to swap, that's if you don't mind being joined by a 3 wheeler:-)

[whatastoner]

Let us know Jos either way.

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[banditrider]

Caught the tail end of the news this morning (better watch tonight) and heard a whisper of some road closures around Chch. Is this due to the fires or something else? Any idea if it will be an issue next week?

[wpoll]

Caught the tail end of the news this morning (better watch tonight) and heard a whisper of some road closures around Chch. Is this due to the fires or something else? Any idea if it will be an issue next week?

We are watching AA Roadwatch daily and haven't seen any show stoppers.

Yet. :brick:

[whatastoner]

Summit road is closed due to the fire, shouldn't effect the TT route if it's shut for several weeks. Between the top of Dyers Pass to Gebbies Pass is the affected area.

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[banditrider]

Cool, sounds good. Not super familiar with the area so trusting the GPS (well, maybe not completely) and have got my routes loaded and accommodation booked...keen to not have to make too many drastic changes...

Some points around out there too...

[wpoll]

Cool, sounds good. Not super familiar with the area so trusting the GPS (well, maybe not completely) and have got my routes loaded and accommodation booked...keen to not have to make too many drastic changes...

Some points around out there too...

Note that many GPS maps aren't updated with the (many) road closures around Banks, especially around the Summit Road area. The current fire just adds to the confusion. Getting to Godley Heads is not as straight forward as you might think... :bleh:

[banditrider]

Note that many GPS maps aren't updated with the (many) road closures around Banks, especially around the Summit Road area. The current fire just adds to the confusion. Getting to Godley Heads is not as straight forward as you might think... :bleh:

On Adv bike ;)

[wpoll]

On Adv bike ;)

Perfect place for an ADV bike...

http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/2073830.jpg

[PistonBlown]

This may be of help. Shows a count of the road works/closures in an area and as you zoom in gives you more detail on each one.
http://www.tfc.govt.nz/current-conditions/roadworks/

When I rode around a couple of weeks ago...

The routes from the start point to Godley Head are pretty clear, if you follow your GPS it should get you there without any issues. There is a traffic light/single lane section on the last bit of Evans Pass Road which takes forever to change but otherwise ok - other than cyclists that ignore the lights and come flying down the hill towards you:-)

Sumner Road from Godley Head to Lyttleton is closed. My GPS thinks it's open.

Summit Road is closed in several places. My GPS did seem to know about this one...or thinks it's a stupid route:-)

So to get from Godley Heads to Governors Bay you have to head back towards Christchurch and take the tunnel to Lyttleton, or if you prefer something more interesting Dyers Pass Rd.

If you go via the tunnel then your GPS will probably take you via Bridle Path Road. This is closed just past the junction with Martindales, however if you head down Martindales you can get around the closure either on Station/Rollin or Port Hills Road.

[banditrider]

This may be of help. Shows a count of the road works/closures in an area and as you zoom in gives you more detail on each one.
http://www.tfc.govt.nz/current-conditions/roadworks/

When I rode around a couple of weeks ago...

The routes from the start point to Godley Head are pretty clear, if you follow your GPS it should get you there without any issues. There is a traffic light/single lane section on the last bit of Evans Pass Road which takes forever to change but otherwise ok - other than cyclists that ignore the lights and come flying down the hill towards you:-)

Sumner Road from Godley Head to Lyttleton is closed. My GPS thinks it's open.

Summit Road is closed in several places. My GPS did seem to know about this one...or thinks it's a stupid route:-)

So to get from Godley Heads to Governors Bay you have to head back towards Christchurch and take the tunnel to Lyttleton, or if you prefer something more interesting Dyers Pass Rd.

If you go via the tunnel then your GPS will probably take you via Bridle Path Road. This is closed just past the junction with Martindales, however if you head down Martindales you can get around the closure either on Station/Rollin or Port Hills Road.

Thanks, that's great info. Will have a good look this weekend...

[Gremlin]

If there are any road closures that are lengthy (ie, not a few days), feel free to submit to NZ Open GPS. New maps are usually released weekly.

Just remember to notify when they open as well :msn-wink:

[PistonBlown]

If there are any road closures that are lengthy (ie, not a few days), feel free to submit to NZ Open GPS. New maps are usually released weekly.

Just remember to notify when they open as well :msn-wink:

I had a bit of trouble with NZ Open GPS when I was planning my route so had switched back to the standard Garmin map but I'll download the latest and see if it has the closure on Sumner Road. That one's been closed since the Feb 2011 earthquake and not due open until 31 March 2018 so if it's not on the latest I'll submit the details.

[PistonBlown]

This is the current info on road closures etc and cordons in the port hills due to the fires:

http://ecan.maps.arcgis.com/apps/PublicInformation/index.html?appid=889c41662fbe4bbf97dcc9c8f27105bb

As you can see Dyers Pass road is closed.

The Governors Bay checkpoint is still accessible via Governors Bay Road but it's currently within the restricted area.

Restricted Area - "Civil Defence is recommending no recreational activities, such as camping, cycling or picnics, take place within the yellow line on this map until further notice. It is important for non-residents to stay away from the marked area to allow access for emergency services who are working in this area."

[whatastoner]

Cordons are being lifted all the time. I got home yesterday afternoon thankfully. By next Friday it should be fine around to Diamond Harbour and beyond, but i would be using the tunnel instead of Dyers Pass Road.

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[wpoll]

:psst: It's coming.... :soon:

Tick, tick, tick...

[banditrider]

:psst: It's coming.... :soon:

Tick, tick, tick...

Tease......

[whatastoner]

Hell yeah.

[wpoll]

...aaand, the updated web site is up! :done:

http://www.tt2000.org/

[whatastoner]

That's quite a spread. It's gonna have to be a choice of which island. Good job. Will have a good look tonight.

[PistonBlown]

I'll always go for the South when given that choice:-)

My question this year is...two wheels or three

Nice touch basing it on the book.

[Ghost Lemur]

Looks like a heap of fun. Should have needed in my 43 by then too. Hmmmm a dastardly plan is forming.

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[veldthui]

Locked and loaded and ready to go. Route all planned out just fuel stops and rest stops to plan out.

[whatastoner]

For the Sth island, the decision is clockwise or anti clockwise.

[STJim]

I fairly certain that I am in this year. The North Island looked the most straight forward. if I set it up correctly I can stay at home in Hamilton each night. I think I will go north from Ashhurst via Gisborne and then to the far north and back on the Saturday leaving a cut straight down the middle on Sunday morning back to Ashhurst. :wacko:

[whatastoner]

Or you can do an anti clockwise run around the Sth Island Jim.

[Euro2018]

I fairly certain that I am in this year. The North Island looked the most straight forward. if I set it up correctly I can stay at home in Hamilton each night. I think I will go north from Ashhurst via Gisborne and then to the far north and back on the Saturday leaving a cut straight down the middle on Sunday morning back to Ashhurst. :wacko:

I drew out a plan in Furkot trip planner. I pick up 50,000 points, but only 1935km so I might need to lap Ashhurst Inn in the barely 40 mins I have spare between arriving back in Ashhurst at 3:20pm and the 4pm cut off.
You can pick holes in my plan here : https://trips.furkot.com/ts/6AXwp3

I can see that I need to be starting off earlier in the morning and work on lifting my average speed. I've used a 67km/h for this plan. I can see I'll need to improve that and my riding talent to make this work.

Haven't signed up to this yet. But I have registered for the 1KC (1000km in a single day) which happens in November. If I can manage a 1KC without karking out, then I might manage the TT.

[STJim]

Or you can do an anti clockwise run around the Sth Island Jim.

Yeah Nah I'll stay North

[STJim]

Euro2018
I see you are based in Hamilton. Why don't you join me for a coffee on Saturday morning to discuss routes. I am basically leaving all the 2000 pointers alone unless they are right on my route. I will only be collecting 2 of those possibly 3.

[Euro2018]

Euro2018
I see you are based in Hamilton. Why don't you join me for a coffee on Saturday morning to discuss routes. I am basically leaving all the 2000 pointers alone unless they are right on my route. I will only be collecting 2 of those possibly 3.

Sent you a PM.

Is there anyone else here from Hamilton entering either the 1KC or TT2000 who wants to meet up ?

[whatastoner]

To get some training and meet like minded riders, consider the NI1600 or 800km in October.
Distanceriders.org

[whatastoner]

Distanceriders.org.nz

[PistonBlown]

For the Sth island, the decision is clockwise or anti clockwise.

Well I was automatically thinking clockwise but saw your post, had a look, and anti-clockwise actually works better for the sleep stops.

That way also gives me a bit more flexibility to skip checkpoints to make up time if SH1 past Kaikoura is slow. It's supposed to reopen end of 2017 but I'm guessing there will still be a lot of road works in Feb.

Decided to stick to 3 wheels this time just because I've had my seat reupholstered on the Spyder. The foam gave up the ghost on the last TT and never recovered. Had it redone complete with a gel insert so I'll not need to stand on the pegs so much this time:-)

Now I wonder if it's possible to get a Spyder to one of the ADV checkpoints....;-)

[whatastoner]

Jos. Borland Road 10000 point will not be a problem.

[insomnia01]

Sent you a PM.

Is there anyone else here from Hamilton entering either the 1KC or TT2000 who wants to meet up ?

I'm in for the 1KC but the TT i'll be at a conference so no go :(

[PistonBlown]

Jos. Borland Road 10000 point will not be a problem.

I was even thinking of all three South Island ADV ones. After all my trike has belt drive, bottoms out on speedbumps, has racing tires and the back wheel spins on any loose surface. How hard could it be?;-)

I was thinking of trying out Rainbow one weekend just out of curiosity as it's just up the road - not too far get it back when I break something.

[wpoll]

I'm SO glad I know you are joking, Jos. It's enough to give a rallymaster sleepless nights...!!! :eek5:

Just for the record (and it's all my own opinion, of course)...

North Island ADV:

Chapter 10: Lake Waikaremoana. This one isn’t too bad, more like Taumutu than One One but it’s a good distance from the seal; 13km of gravel from the south end or 44km of gravel from the north end. Then you have to go back, so double those distances. Or ride right through and travel a total of 57kms on gravel. This is about the same as an earlier TT checkpoint, Mt Aspiring (at Raspberry Flat). Rideable on a street bike with care.

South Island ADV:

Chapter 29: Rainbow Road. Another mild ride although it can be tricky if recently gravelled. 8km via Jacks Pass (rougher) or 13kms via Jollies Pass (longer). Rideable on a street bike with care.

Chapter 42: Skippers Canyon. Only 2.4km of gravel but OH BOY! It’s a steep drop off and very narrow. Can be rutted and has a few blind corners. Street bike not recommended!! :eek5:

Chapter 48: Von Mavora. 34kms or 36kms (depending on where you leave the seal) of well-groomed gravel, although the last couple of kms can be a bit muddy if wet. Rideable on a street bike with care.

Chapter 49: Borland Road. This one is 28km in and of course then 28km back out - so 56km. This is a true ADV ride. A street bike in here would be a serious mistake…. :eek5:

You have been warned. Or challenged... :bye:

[PistonBlown]

Just as well you mentioned Skippers Canyon as I hadn't noticed the ADV on that one and had it on my route. Definitely off my list now.

Funny enough One One wasn't really a problem for me as it was flat. With Taumutu the gravel was too deep one way but fine the other so I just went in the same way in as I went out. I even managed the dirt road shortcut to Pigeon Bay. The one where I struggled was Papatotara. There was a steep slope with bands across it at one point and my Spyder really struggled there. The back wheel keep spinning and moving sideways, Only way I managed to get up was by sliding back onto the pillion seat to put more weight over the back wheel. Just as well I have long arms.

[wpoll]

Thanks to veldthui the 2018 TT2000 Score Sheet is now automated - tick the checkpoints you want to visit and it'll add up the points for you.

Brilliant. Get the updated score sheet here...

http://www.tt2000.org/rally-resources.html

[lmfbs]

I've signed up, but not sure yet whether I want to stick to the North Island or catch the ferry partway through. I do love taking my vehicle on a vehicle, so the boat is always a fun time.

I'm pretty tempted to head up to 90 mile beach too. I love the roads in Northland, and don't get up there often enough, so any excuse.

Is anyone else from Wellington doing the ride? I'm doing it with 2 others, and I'd be keen for a beer/planning session, even if we don't ride together.

[wpoll]

Just an FYI for anyone considering the full length of the Molesworth.. it's closed by a washout - until?

http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/marlborough/places/molesworth-station/

*edit* DOC now say road may be fixed by mid-December.....

[wpoll]

Just an FYI for anyone considering the full length of the Molesworth.. it's closed by a washout - until?

http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/marlborough/places/molesworth-station/

*edit* DOC now say road may be fixed by mid-December.....

Good to see that Acheron Road is open (until it closes for the season on April 8th).

And take note - if you haven't yet registered for the 2018 TT2000 event and are planning to do so, you have less than 10 days left! Get off that fence and get on over to http://www.tt2000.org :msn-wink:

[PistonBlown]

Chapter 42: Skippers Canyon
You know you said it was narrow? How narrow is narrow i.e. is 2 wheel narrow or 3 wheel narrow...

After all managed One One last year, though a couple of non-essential parts did vibrate off along the way.

[wpoll]

Chapter 42: Skippers Canyon
You know you said it was narrow? How narrow is narrow i.e. is 2 wheel narrow or 3 wheel narrow...

After all managed One One last year, though a couple of non-essential parts did vibrate off along the way.

Skippers is pretty narrow but you'll fit. Turning around at the checkpoint might be fun though. :-)

Have a look at this video - from the start to about 45 seconds. The checkpoint is at the outside of the left-hand bend at 45 seconds in. It looks out over the rock formation known as Lighthouse Rock.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YdgOJdwW2E&t=3s

After taking your photo (or before), you'll have to do a three point turn and head back out.

There is a bit of commercial traffic going into the canyon in the early mornings, and it comes back out later in the morning. Of course, tourists can be expected at any time! :msn-wink:

[whatastoner]

Skippers is pretty narrow but you'll fit. Turning around at the checkpoint might be fun though. :-)

Have a look at this video - from the start to about 45 seconds. The checkpoint is at the outside of the left-hand bend at 45 seconds in. It looks out over the rock formation known as Lighthouse Rock.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YdgOJdwW2E&t=3s

After taking your photo (or before), you'll have to do a three point turn and head back out.

There is a bit of commercial traffic going into the canyon in the early mornings, and it comes back out later in the morning. Of course, tourists can be expected at any time! :msn-wink:Looks like plenty of room there Jos.

[whatastoner]

Looks like plenty of room there Jos.When do you expect to be down that way?
I think I'll be Arrowtown Saturday afternoon.

[sidecar bob]

Skippers is pretty narrow but you'll fit. Turning around at the checkpoint might be fun though. :-)

Have a look at this video - from the start to about 45 seconds. The checkpoint is at the outside of the left-hand bend at 45 seconds in. It looks out over the rock formation known as Lighthouse Rock.


After taking your photo (or before), you'll have to do a three point turn and head back out.

There is a bit of commercial traffic going into the canyon in the early mornings, and it comes back out later in the morning. Of course, tourists can be expected at any time! :msn-wink:

My wife had to ride a 1953 Matchless road sidecar outfit down there repeatedly with a small child in the sidecar as a double for a movie.
Looking at that I'm amazed nobody died.

[sir.taz]

I was in there last week. It's slow going but doable, the checkpoint has a turning spot and space to come off the road, it's tight but definitely achievable.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180123/965fd3d4148b888b7e7a43be0a77ecc0.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180123/150c87a7ce7a20c5592a6f8f9d3ebcb4.jpg

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[whatastoner]

Is that a new fairing on the bike?

[sir.taz]

Is that a new fairing on the bike?Nope got a new bike August 2016, much the same as the last one except for the extra fairing.

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[whatastoner]

Ok. I was remembering the last one. You all bike fit for the TT? I was down your way a couple of weeks ago. Moa Flat Road through to Mataura and over to the Cp in Owaka.

[sir.taz]

Yeah spent the break checking out the checkpoints, just had the bike serviced, get the Burt Munroe done and then new Tyres on the girl and she will be ready to go!

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[banditrider]

Looks like there'll be plenty of room for me to turn my whale around. Should be hitting it early evening on Saturday...

[whatastoner]

Banditrider, are you taking in Glenorchy afterwards?

[banditrider]

Before. Should be at Skippers at 18:01 if my plan goes to plan...

[whatastoner]

I'll look out for you.

[banditrider]

Sweet, there's a few points going around in that area - bound to bump into one another :niceone:

[PistonBlown]

Having seen the video I've got to ride that one as it looks gorgeous.

If there's not room to turn around I'll just stick it in reverse gear for the 3km back to civilisation;-)


When do you expect to be down that way?
I think I'll be Arrowtown Saturday afternoon.

According to Basecamp I'll be hitting it Saturday at 3:24pm.

I little bird told me your planning to do the Molesworth track this time? Wish I could join you for that part this year as I've never ridden that. However even I realise that I would be a pushing my chances a bit far doing that with my bike.

[whatastoner]

Yes that's right. It's slower than the SH1 but doesn't mean having to double back. So if you're heading north, it'll be interesting to see who gets to Blenheim refuel first.

[PistonBlown]

I'm skipping Rainbow Road even though the bike wouldn't have any trouble. It adds too much time to the first day as I want to do that section of SH1 this year.

Checkpoints are less important than interesting roads from my point of view. I've already ridden up to the Rainbow Road checkpoint so don't need to do it as part of the TT2000. But am curious to see what SH1 looks like now.

I had initially had the idea of doing 3200km this time as I was close last year. But looking at it I'll only manage that if a) SH1 is better than I think it is b) It doesn't rain on the West Coast. Suspect I'll end up chopping my route a bit and do around 3000km as I still want to get to the finish around midday.

[whatastoner]

The last minute entries have pushed the total to an event record?
Great to see the continuing enthusiasm.
Long live the TT2000.

[wpoll]

The last minute entries have pushed the total to an event record?
Great to see the continuing enthusiasm.
Long live the TT2000.

They have! :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

The previous record was in 2010 with 146 riders registering, although barely 100 actually showed up for the start.

As of right now we have 147 registered and payed up riders. :Punk::Punk::Punk:

Mike would have been proud of you all... :first:

[sir.taz]

They have! :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

The previous record was in 2010 with 146 riders registering, although barely 100 actually showed up for the start.

As of right now we have 147 registered and payed up riders. :Punk::Punk::Punk:

Mike would have been proud of you all... :first:Wow

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[FJRider]

Yeah spent the break checking out the checkpoints, just had the bike serviced, get the Burt Munroe done and then new Tyres on the girl and she will be ready to go!

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That part of the road has a hard packed base (solid rock) but the surface is a lightly packed dusty gravel. The gradient can be deceiving ... so watch out trying to brake going down hill or the front end will slide out. Too many horses uphill will get a similar result.

The worst bit is from Coronet Peak road to the saddle at the top of Long Slip gully (Where that vid started)

I've been into The Branches Station in a 4WD double cab at night ... it's not that bad.

[PistonBlown]

They have! :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

The previous record was in 2010 with 146 riders registering, although barely 100 actually showed up for the start.

As of right now we have 147 registered and payed up riders. :Punk::Punk::Punk:

Mike would have been proud of you all... :first:

Ruddy Fantastic and hopefully the best ever turn out on the day to make it really special.

Some more unusual bikes this time as well with a couple of Royal Enfields, some more 300cc bikes (though looks like Thomas isn't able to do it this year) and even four Harleys.

[PistonBlown]

...and just noticed there's another Spyder this year.

Not long now, bikes serviced, fitted new rear tyre and brake pads, route (kind-of) planned...getting excited:-)

[banditrider]

North Island TT riders: If people are using Hunterville-Fordell to get to the Turakina Valley checkpoint there is a bit of mess in places from slip clean-ups and where the trucks have dragged metal across the road. Also some decent roadworks: https://youtu.be/Vn4_jYhJflk. Might be fun in the dark...
Also some roadwords with traffic lights on Vinegar Hill.

[whatastoner]

North Island TT riders: If people are using Hunterville-Fordell to get to the Turakina Valley checkpoint there is a bit of mess in places from slip clean-ups and where the trucks have dragged metal across the road. Also some decent roadworks: https://youtu.be/Vn4_jYhJflk. Might be fun in the dark...
Also some roadwords with traffic lights on Vinegar Hill.Here's hoping the storms heading our way are short lived and long gone by Thursday for all riders commuting to the starting lines.
The South Island looks good for Friday and Saturday with a front chasing north from Dunedin on Sunday morning. Fingers crossed.
My main concern are more road closures on the west coast. That would really screw our route.

[sir.taz]

Here's hoping the storms heading our way are short lived and long gone by Thursday for all riders commuting to the starting lines.
The South Island looks good for Friday and Saturday with a front chasing north from Dunedin on Sunday morning. Fingers crossed.
My main concern are more road closures on the west coast. That would really screw our route.Yeah I'm thinking the same, might be a late night Thursday replanning the route if the roads are impacted.

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[banditrider]

I hope it sorts itself out on Tuesday - crossing the straits on Wednesday...

[sir.taz]

I hope it sorts itself out on Tuesday - crossing the straits on Wednesday...That could be a stressful crossing, hoping the bike stays upright on the journey!

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[banditrider]

That could be a stressful crossing, hoping the bike stays upright on the journey!

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Yeah, not looking forward to it if the sea is going crazy. :sick:

Might pack an extra tie-down or 6...

[wpoll]

... might be a late night Thursday replanning the route if the roads are impacted.

Count on this being the case... :facepalm:

[sir.taz]

Count on this being the case... :facepalm:That's the fun of it!

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[PistonBlown]

Count on this being the case... :facepalm:

Yep dropping all the Marlborough region checkpoints from my route. SH1 Kaikoura is closed again + the roads up there are going to be chancy.

"Chapter 31 - Kaikoura Coast" isn't currently reachable due to SH1 closure.

Shame as I was really looking forward to doing that stretch of SH1 for the first time since the shake.

Expect there will be a few changes while riding as well.

Speechlys Bridge on SH79 near Geraldine is munted. According to NZTA SH1 and SH8 are the alternate route to use, though on a map looks like local roads bypass it.

[wpoll]

... SH1 Kaikoura is closed again + the roads up there are going to be chancy.

"Chapter 31 - Kaikoura Coast" isn't currently reachable due to SH1 closure.

Shame as I was really looking forward to doing that stretch of SH1 for the first time since the shake.

Expect there will be a few changes while riding as well.

Speechlys Bridge on SH79 near Geraldine is munted. According to NZTA SH1 and SH8 are the alternate route.

OK - have been in contact with folk who know and while SH1 Kaikoura is currently closed, it'll be open on Saturday (one lane in places). This makes Chapter 31 accessible again - at least on Saturday and Sunday. :clap:

[sir.taz]

My current workspace as I alternate between writing my principal report and monitor the road conditions against my planned route.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180221/4a7ad5f2aa0059aa928e51ee0264c1e2.jpg

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[PistonBlown]

OK - have been in contact with folk who know and while SH1 Kaikoura is currently closed, it'll be open on Saturday (one lane in places). This makes Chapter 31 accessible again - at least on Saturday and Sunday. :clap:

I was planning to use it Friday:-) Still all part of the fun.

[PistonBlown]

My current workspace as I alternate between writing my principal report and monitor the road conditions against my planned route.

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Snap:-)
335406

[sir.taz]

Snap:-)
335406Lol

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[wpoll]

OK - have been in contact with folk who know and while SH1 Kaikoura is currently closed, it'll be open on Saturday (one lane in places). This makes Chapter 31 accessible again - at least on Saturday and Sunday. :clap:

So Downer etc. have had a closer look at the SH1 slips around Kaikoura and have deemed the damage to be worse than first thought. The road is now closed until next week... So no Chapter 31 Checkpoint. :no:

[anoeldcx]

So Downer etc. have had a closer look at the SH1 slips around Kaikoura and have deemed the damage to be worse than first thought. The road is now closed until next week... So no Chapter 31 Checkpoint. :no:

Locals are commuting from Conway Flat to Cheviot so 31 is accessible from the south apparently. Am going to check it out later today so will post an update. We are planning on grabbing that one tomorrow before heading inland.

[anoeldcx]

Locals are commuting from Conway Flat to Cheviot so 31 is accessible from the south apparently. Am going to check it out later today so will post an update. We are planning on grabbing that one tomorrow before heading inland.

Have been out to the road closure at the Leader Road turn-off tonight and discovered that they are only allowing residents through to Claverley and Conway Flat. I spoke with the man in charge and explained the event and the fact that we had a checkpoint there and that any bikes would be in and out again, but unfortunately couldn't convince him to give us permission. So sorry, but checkpoint 31 is definitely a no-go. Back to the old drawing board :brick:
Not really what we want the night before aye!

[PistonBlown]

Have been out to the road closure at the Leader Road turn-off tonight and discovered that they are only allowing residents through to Claverley and Conway Flat. I spoke with the man in charge and explained the event and the fact that we had a checkpoint there and that any bikes would be in and out again, but unfortunately couldn't convince him to give us permission. So sorry, but checkpoint 31 is definitely a no-go. Back to the old drawing board :brick:
Not really what we want the night before aye!

Thanks for checking it out for us.

Do you think a photo with the bloke at the barrier count for 31;-)

From the photos you can see how much they've got to clear. Surprised they even think Monday night considering how unstable its likely to be:
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/101660936/state-highway-1-north-and-south-of-kaikura-closed-until-at-least-monday-night

I suspect there's going to hold up's in various places so have decided this is going to be my "smell the roses" TT2000. Going to take it easy, dropped a bunch of checkpoints and cut around 600km from my route.

[sir.taz]

TT riders who are using the iPhone app to record their checkpoints for submission, if you are starting and finishing at the same location, your final photo will replace your original photo with your initial odometer reading. The workaround for this is to use the other start finish location and add your photo to that before submitting.

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[banditrider]

Can we go yet?

[whatastoner]

Not just yet Bandit.
I'm sure Wayne will have a solution for the Conway Flat Cp.

[banditrider]

Great run for me :yes:. Did a few extra mms due to GPS issues but never mind, the gravel was nice...

Who else can't wait for next year's ride?

[wpoll]

Great run for me :yes:. Did a few extra mms due to GPS issues but never mind, the gravel was nice...

Who else can't wait for next year's ride?

Working on the 2019 event while I wait for the last 2018 rider to come in.... :rolleyes:

[biggo]

Ready and waiting ☺☺☺

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[PistonBlown]

Working on the 2019 event while I wait for the last 2018 rider to come in.... :rolleyes:

That's dedication. Thanks for all your hard work, very much appreciated.

[whatastoner]

Yes. Excellent rally. We reached all our cp's, should have paid more attention at the briefing and researched the bridge closure. Made an already tight deadline even closer. Thought the detour would be at the bridge.

[release_the_bees]

Out of interest, how many points did you have to get in the 48 hour period?

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[banditrider]

Out of interest, how many points did you have to get in the 48 hour period?

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50,000. Different values points on offer depending on how tricky they are to get. I plan for more in case I miss one or choose to slip one.

Aimed for 59,000 this year and got 59,000 :)

[release_the_bees]

Thanks for that. The Tt2000 looks really interesting. I might actually give it a go next time.

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[whatastoner]

You should. Solo or with buddies. Preferably of similar riding style and stamina.

[release_the_bees]

You should. Solo or with buddies. Preferably of similar riding style and stamina.I'd definitely be looking to do it solo. Partly, because I don't know any other motorcyclists who'd be likely to want to join me on this type of ride, but mainly so I could plan my own route and go at my own pace, which I think is essential - even if I didn't end up completing it on my first go, at least I'd have a basemark to beat in the future. That said, there are definitely plus points from learning off of an experienced participant.

Having never participated, obviously, I don't know what I don't yet know regarding the mental and physical toughness of the event. That said, I think that the toughest part for me, wouldn't so much be the distance itself - I've done a fair few post-1000 km rides before (although, admittedly, not two of them back-to-back). I think that my biggest challenge would actually be trying to get a good night's sleep the night before the event due to the excitement. I'm sure that it's a whole lot tougher if you're already tired before you start!

It's definitely something that I should add to my bucket list though.



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[release_the_bees]

I do have one other basic question - are the start and end location always at the same location or do they change each year?

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[whatastoner]

Start points have changed over the years. Dunedin, Blenheim and Nelson. Finish points have been Picton, but usually Christchurch.
Nth Island TT2000 option is not always run.

[PistonBlown]

I'd definitely be looking to do it solo. Partly, because I don't know any other motorcyclists who'd be likely to want to join me on this type of ride, but mainly so I could plan my own route and go at my own pace, which I think is essential - even if I didn't end up completing it on my first go, at least I'd have a basemark to beat in the future. That said, there are definitely plus points from learning off of an experienced participant.

Having never participated, obviously, I don't know what I don't yet know regarding the mental and physical toughness of the event. That said, I think that the toughest part for me, wouldn't so much be the distance itself - I've done a fair few post-1000 km rides before (although, admittedly, not two of them back-to-back). I think that my biggest challenge would actually be trying to get a good night's sleep the night before the event due to the excitement. I'm sure that it's a whole lot tougher if you're already tired before you start!

It's definitely something that I should add to my bucket list though.



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The start time is midday on a Friday, finishing midday on Sunday. Because of this you've only really got one full-on day of riding on Saturday and means you get two decent rests between rides rather than having to do two 1000km days back to back.

You've hit the nail on the head when you mention about planning your own route and choosing your own pace. That's what's so great about the TT2000. But you can be in the remotest spot, having not seen another rider for hours, yet at the checkpoint you nearly always meet someone. There's a shared experience and comradeship, even if its just a big wave as you pass.

The other side is that it will get you to bits of NZ you've never seen before, twisty fun roads you've never traveled, and views that are fresh.

See you at the start;-)

[Mr Triple]

Think I may have to give this ago this year. Haven't done one since 2013 and need to put some is on my bike lol