Wellington: Wellington Newbie Ride 29 Jan 06 [Archive]

Uncle B

27th December 2005, 08:09

This is a chance for newer riders in the area to get togeather and head out on an organised ride.
THIS IS NOT A RACE...This is most important as we don't want anybody crashing cause it will be a fun day out.
Go at your own pace, there will be people who will wait for you.
Make sure your bike is road legal ie: warrant, rego, chain oiled and adjusted, tyres the correct pressure......

The plan is to gather at various meeting points with the main gathering at Caltex Rimutaka Upper Hutt for the trip over the Rimutakas to Featherston and on to Martinborough.
Townies: Meet at the caltex truck stop Hutt road Kaiwharawhara 9:45am for 10:00am depature.
Hutt riders: Car park at the bottom of Maungaraki Hill Road 10:20am for 10:35am departure.
All others meet at Caltex Rimutaka 11:00am for 11:20am departure.

LETS MAKE THIS A GREAT DAY

Also looking for experienced riders to help out with back markers and to share riding tips and any questions the newbies might ask.
PM me if you can help.

phoenixgtr

27th December 2005, 10:35

Sounds cool. I might just be there

skelstar

27th December 2005, 12:59

I encourage anyone whos only gone over the takas a couple of times (even) to come along on this ride. Make sure you ask questions of the senior...whoops sorry Jim2...I mean 'more experienced' riders.:niceone:
Ill be there.

Darkman

27th December 2005, 13:31

skelstar

27th December 2005, 15:35

[QUOTE=skelstar]I encourage anyone whos only gone over the takas a couple of times (even) to come along on this ride. Make sure you ask questions of the senior..

Mmmmmm, sound like it will be fun. I will be there, have loads of questions too. Like "how the fark do you overcome the fear of falling?" Maybe I should get a good set of leathers?
Dude...I reckon your riding/confidence has come a long way since our first ride eh? That was a shit (weather) day though eh? And first taka ride since my accident.

James Deuce

27th December 2005, 16:06

Harr harr, Mr Skelstar.

I won't be able to make this one as I am working AND on call.

Darn it.

Have fun people.

madboy

27th December 2005, 16:06

Darkman - don't overthink it. Too many people over analyse riding. I've been guilty of that myself. Just go out, have fun.

skelstar

27th December 2005, 16:08

I reckon you gotta workout what you have control over and ride within those limits. Rationalise the 'problem'...but dont overthink it like MB said.

sels1

28th December 2005, 20:42

Also looking for experienced riders to help out with back markers and to share riding tips and any questions the newbies might ask.
PM me if you can help.

pm me a couple of days beforehand (too far away to remember....!)

Dafe

28th December 2005, 20:47

I reckon you gotta workout what you have control over and ride within those limits. Rationalise the 'problem'...but dont overthink it like MB said.

Nobody does more analysis than GP riders. Then again, they do need to know their limits! Casual riders still need to do some analysis, if they want to improve their riding skill.

Bruce, Can I go tailend Charlie.......
That way if I get bored.... Nobody will see me behaving!

RATSHIT! I just noticed it was 29 January, not tomorrow - 29 December. I hope nobody turns up tomorrow!:eek:

Str8 Jacket

28th December 2005, 21:03

Bummer, i'll be up North... On the plus side I am riding my own bike up, so i'll be getting heaps of riding in anyways!

Darkman

28th December 2005, 22:19

Nobody does more analysis than GP riders. Then again, they do need to know their limits! Casual riders still need to do some analysis, if they want to improve their riding skill.

Bruce, Can I go tailend Charlie.......
That way if I get bored.... Nobody will see me behaving!

RATSHIT! I just noticed it was 29 January, not tomorrow - 29 December. I hope nobody turns up tomorrow!:eek:

I just noticed today too. Just in time, cause was planning on going..ha ha

Charlie

29th December 2005, 13:59

RATSHIT! I just noticed it was 29 January, not tomorrow - 29 December. I hope nobody turns up tomorrow!:eek:
Cool - thought it was today and I'm stuck at work! :bye:
So 29 JAN - I'll be there! Done the tuckers all of two times now! :second:
Looking forward to it!

madboy

29th December 2005, 14:49

Str8 Jacket

29th December 2005, 14:54

Bruce, I can offer tips on correct attachment of numberplate, high-speed lanesplitting, tax evasion and picking the best route home/hiding place. Do you think the newbies will be able to take that all in on one day?

Look here Madboy, Uncle Bruce said "Its not a race" so there will be o need for your kid of tips this time, ok?...:msn-wink:

madboy

29th December 2005, 15:05

Look here Madboy, Uncle Bruce said "Its not a race" so there will be o need for your kid of tips this time, ok?...:msn-wink:Who's racing? Bike goes first, multiple cages follow. Where's the idea coming from that it's racing?

Sparky Bills

29th December 2005, 15:52

Ill come.:shifty:

Thats my new years res...
GO FOR MORE RIDES!!

hsvboy06

30th December 2005, 18:39

Yep - I'll be in for that if I can (you never know what spanner the wifey might throw in the works, it being Sunday 'n' all).

VasalineWarrior

30th December 2005, 23:32

Bruce, I can offer tips on correct attachment of numberplate, high-speed lanesplitting, tax evasion and picking the best route home/hiding place.
Does that mean there will be more demonstrations next thursday by yourself as to how not to ride past cops?

Ms Piggy

31st December 2005, 08:55

I'm keen. See ya'll there :)

Wasp

1st January 2006, 17:01

Im in, see you all there!!

madboy

1st January 2006, 17:09

Does that mean there will be more demonstrations next thursday by yourself as to how not to ride past cops?I'm always very careful when I ride past the fuzz... carefully scanning side roads, carefully scanning oncoming traffic, carefully calculating my fuel mileage... :scooter:

Colapop

1st January 2006, 17:57

I'm always very careful when I ride past the fuzz... carefully scanning side roads, carefully scanning oncoming traffic, carefully calculating my fuel mileage... :scooter:
...carefully calculating just how far up his nose you can get without pissing them off too much?

madboy

1st January 2006, 21:58

...carefully calculating just how far up his nose you can get without pissing them off too much?or how far north of the speed of light you can get before they u-turn.

phoenixgtr

4th January 2006, 22:23

It seems very likely that I will be there. I could definately learn a thing or two

Wasp

10th January 2006, 23:46

It seems very likely that I will be there. I could definately learn a thing or two

cool,havnt seen you in ages!

phoenixgtr

13th January 2006, 11:35

Yeah, I know. Been down south on holiday. I'm back and ready to roll, with a new rear tyre and few other bits I bought while I was away. Looking forward to another ride with you guys

Uncle B

23rd January 2006, 21:48

*Bump*.......just a reminder

magicfairy

24th January 2006, 07:48

phoenixgtr

24th January 2006, 08:10

I'll be there, as long as the weather aint miserable. Looking forward to it

Str8 Jacket

24th January 2006, 09:16

Sorry Uncle B not gonna make it. Riding back to Wellys form Kerikeri on Friday and moving Sat and seeing as I have to go back to work on Monday I want to spend Sunday resting and doing SFA! I hope that you guy's have a great ride though!

sels1

24th January 2006, 09:37

*Bump*.......just a reminder

Looking good at this stage:cool:

Uncle B

24th January 2006, 14:38

Sounds just right for me. I'm a newbie, only been over the Takas only a couple of times on my Savage, with my very patient partner leading the way on his busa. I don't think it's much fun for him, having all the sports bikes race past while he guides me along at safe speeds. Count me in.
This will be a nice cruise at a pace that you'll not be left behind.
I think I may have seen a Busa being followed by a cruiser a few times over the hill....looking forward to you joining in.

Ms Piggy

24th January 2006, 14:55

Poos & wees! :pinch: I can't make it now. I have a High Tea at 2pm as part of a Hens Party and since I'm 1 of the Bridesmaids I can't miss it.

Thanks for organising it though Uncle B & have a great ride y'all.

bladez

24th January 2006, 15:11

sounds like a good day out try and make it if bike lets me. good to see rides like that

magicfairy

24th January 2006, 15:25

This will be a nice cruise at a pace that you'll not be left behind.
I think I may have seen a Busa being followed by a cruiser a few times over the hill....looking forward to you joining in.

If it was a black Busa with a rider all in black doing is best to look like Ghostrider , followed by a small white Cruiser that was us. I was getting bored being pillion so took the plunge and replaced my scooter with a bigger bike a few months ago. Being only 5ft tall I didn't have many options.
It has been a real learning curve, as I ride like a Nana.

My partner (BusaJim) is happier having me safely tucked up behind him pillion, going fast, instead of sticking to speed limit and growing white hairs trying to keep an eye on me in rear vision mirror and worrying about me. Having said that, I thoroughly enjoyed our trip over the hill yesterday. So this ride should be just right.

yungatart

24th January 2006, 15:35

Get him to ride behind you. That way you set the pace that you are comfortable with and he can give you advice because he can see what you are doing. Enjoy your newbe ride down there, and ask heaps of questions. Some of those guys are really experienced riders and are more than happy to help. It does you good to ride with people that you aren't emotionally involved with too- they are more objective and you are more receptive to hearing them. Have fun out there!

magicfairy

24th January 2006, 16:02

Actually he is very very good, and sets the pace at my level. If I start coming up behind him he knows to pick it up a bit. If I drop behind he slows down for me. I like having him in front for now, as watching his lines and seeing the speed he approaches the corners on the Tukas helped me know what I should be doing. That may change, and when I am more confident he'll probably take off into the distance and Ill meet him at the next fuel stop (He rides FAST !) We sort of have a deal, for each slow ride he does with me, he goes out once or twice on his own and does his thing.

During the week I commute without him.
I have a friend whose partner always follows her and she has found that
1 It is an endless stream of criticism when they stop...
2 She actually said she learned a lot following better riders, watching them take the corners

James Deuce

24th January 2006, 16:04

Do you park outside POD sometimes magicfairy?

Wasp

24th January 2006, 17:46

2 She actually said she learned a lot following better riders, watching them take the corners

yea, the only problem is if you can catch the better riders then you dont need to learn lol :rolleyes:

magicfairy

24th January 2006, 17:49

Do you park outside POD sometimes magicfairy?
POD ? I park in Hunter St. Most days.

sels1

24th January 2006, 18:48

I want to spend Sunday resting and doing SFA!

Nah, you'll get bored - come riding!

Sparky Bills

24th January 2006, 19:23

I may join yas for a bit. I still have my helmet camera to get working.
May have a new piece of kit to show off too!:headbang:
But that will only be for the lucky few:cool:

Either way, I think Johnboy will be coming down this weekend, so ill have to take him out there to teach him a thing or too.

(much like Bruce did to us on Monday:Oops: )

knee_scraper

25th January 2006, 21:06

I'd really like to go so i'll beg for a day off work.

How many usually go?

It'd be great if I could have a senior assess my cornering. I wish I knew why I tend to like left handers more than right handers, its beginning to frustrate me. When ever I come to a left my head turns into the corner well but on the right I always have to correct myself. I guess i'll grow out of it.

So hopefully i'll be there.

James Deuce

25th January 2006, 21:56

It'd be great if I could have a senior assess my cornering. I wish I knew why I tend to like left handers more than right handers, its beginning to frustrate me.

That one is more simple than you would ever guess.

When you lean to the right you are leaning toward the opposing traffic flow.

I used to have the same problem. Fear of my torso being ripped off by a truck. Look further through the corner so that your hindbrain doesn't scream at you that there might be something coming the other way.

I only fixed that one when I hit a racetrack that was just about all right hand corners (Manfield) and discovered that I wasn't having the same problems there as I was on the road.

See you on Sunday.

Wasp

25th January 2006, 22:18

lol i have the same problem but i find its just because i naturally countersteer less than on a left hander.

can't say its the faer of on comming traffic for me, I used to hoon down the hill with my bike on my side of the road and my head on the other side. Dad advised me that this wasn't the smartest.

might be there, hopefully i can get some work done on the bike soon.

EDIT: welcome to KB by the way knee_scraper, see ya round!

phoenixgtr

26th January 2006, 08:01

Yeah, I prefer left handers too. They just feel more comfortable. I find it easier to lean. You might have a point there Jim2.

Welcome knee_scraper. Hope to see you on Sunday

hsvboy06

26th January 2006, 08:15

phoenixgtr

26th January 2006, 11:47

I'm looking forward to riding with another FXR. I'll be able to see if it's partly my fault that its so slow ;)

madboy

26th January 2006, 11:57

Starting time on an FXR from Kapiti? About 8am should do it ;)

sels1

26th January 2006, 15:34

Is anyone else going on this ride from Kapiti? Do you want to meet somewhere in Kapiti and then ride (at FXR speed) as a group over Paekak' Hill, Haywards and up to Caltex Rimutaka? Could someone who's done this wee trip before suggest a start time to get there by 11am?

Yeah I'm prolly going. It takes about half n hour but better add some time on for gettin yr FXR up the hill :) What say we (and anyone else interested) meet at the Prm Mobil Station (south end one) at 10am

hsvboy06

26th January 2006, 15:47

...meet at the Prm Mobil Station (south end one) at 10am
That sounds like a plan. Thanks.

Sparky Bills

27th January 2006, 07:54

That sounds like a plan. Thanks.

Ill give you guys a 1/2 hour headstart:whistle:

roogazza

27th January 2006, 13:55

Ill give you guys a 1/2 hour headstart:whistle:

Why do that ? they're just going to have to wait a 1/2 hour at the other end !!!!!!!!! G.

Slingshot

27th January 2006, 14:32

Jim...are you going to be the senior that assess the corning skills?

James Deuce

27th January 2006, 14:37

I'm certainly senior.

Are about to say that's a bad idea because I suck? :)

Sparky Bills

27th January 2006, 14:38

Why do that ? they're just going to have to wait a 1/2 hour at the other end !!!!!!!!! G.

SMART ASS!

Slingshot

27th January 2006, 15:03

Are about to say that's a bad idea because I suck? :)

Not at all...I was more trying to imply that you were old :whistle:

Wasp

27th January 2006, 17:52

well so long as someone assess, I feel my lines on unfamiliar roads just put simply suck...

James Deuce

27th January 2006, 18:05

Not at all...I was more trying to imply that you were old :whistle:

That's alright then. That's just a statement of fact.

Wasp - I've heaps of ideas about coping with unfamiliar roads if you want some help.

phoenixgtr

27th January 2006, 20:33

Damn it!! F#%king tyre!!

So I walk out to my bike after work today and "hello" my new rear tyre is flat. Yay :angry2: After gently riding it to the nearest petrol station and pumping it up I made it home.

After some intense scientific research (soapy water) I deduced that the leak was coming out the valve :(

Why would the valve suddenly decide to spring a leak? Especially 2 days before this ride, when I've got no money!!

I will not let this stop me damn it!! Just gotta get it fixed tomorrow, somehow.

Because I only just got this tyre fitted a couple of weeks ago do you think the shop would help me out?

Uncle B

27th January 2006, 20:48

Ring around, explain your situation and hopefully a nice friendly bike shop will be able to help you out.

madboy

27th January 2006, 20:52

As in where the valve meets the wheel, or leaking out the end of the valve itself? One is really easy, the other might require some nice words to the bike shop. Either way neither is a problem.

phoenixgtr

27th January 2006, 20:54

Out the end MB. Is that better than round the edge?

madboy

27th January 2006, 20:57

Sounds like the valve is loose. You know that valves unscrew (with the right $2 tool) and the middle comes out? So they can come loose or someone might just not like you or your bike and loosened it for you. I'm pretty sure I've got the valve tool on my mountain bike. Will have a look in a minute cos it might just be a case of tightening that up and you're away.

phoenixgtr

27th January 2006, 21:00

Cheers mate.

madboy

27th January 2006, 21:03

Found it. Was in the 2nd place I looked, which is always a good sign ;) Whereabouts in Wgtn do you live? I'm in the Hutt, you could drop by at some stage and we could try (if you're not too far away) otherwise I could come for a ticki-tour at some point tomorrow.

phoenixgtr

27th January 2006, 21:08

Im in Newtown. I could prob meet you somewhere if you want cause its not going down quickly, but if you're heading into town tomorrow you can drop by. Only thing is I want to try it early incase thats not the prob

madboy

27th January 2006, 21:12

I wouldn't have a chance to get anywhere near there until probably the afternoon. I've got a GN to sort out for someone else in the morning! I suggest pumping it up and dawdling down to WMCC (or preferably whichever dealer did the tyre) and asking them really nicely if they could just give the valve a tighten. Will take them longer to find that tool than do the job, so it won't cost a cent.

I see your point, cos if it ain't that, then it's gonna take time... and I've yet to find a bike workshop that's open late night Saturday ;)

If you strike out, I'll PM you my cell in case.

phoenixgtr

27th January 2006, 21:14

Cheers. Thanks for the help anyway. I'll try WMCC in the morning. You coming on Sun?

madboy

27th January 2006, 21:15

Hopefully... it's a toss up between that and work at the moment. And I'm on salary, so the ride is winning.

phoenixgtr

27th January 2006, 21:23

I know which one I would pick. Might see you there then

Moxy

27th January 2006, 21:39

haha was looking forward to this ride also.

Unfortunately, with good intentions, I gave my new (to me) '99 zx-6r a wash with the old low pressure garden hose, and degreaser - the same method I used on my FXR for ~3 years.

Now the 6r is only running on 3!? and bunny hops whenever I hit the powerband. Couldn't get a workshop booking until Feb 10! In the meantime I'll switch out the plugs, see if that solves it. :(

cowpoos

27th January 2006, 22:38

dovers down in the rapa this weekend and he is thinking about coming along to offer some advice to the newbies... :rofl:

SPman

28th January 2006, 01:16

Well - seeing as how I'll be down there - if I remember, I'll make an appearance as well - as long as the wind is under 50 knots!

phoenixgtr

28th January 2006, 10:06

Well I got my valve tightened. It was a full 2 turns loose so hopefully that was the only prob. Got it done at Sawyers tho cause WMC was hopeless, they wouldn't even look at it without charging me. Just gonna check the pressure in an hour or so to make sure its not still going down at all. Cheers for the advice Madboy

merv

28th January 2006, 10:21

Damn what's happened to WMCC since Trashy left?

merv

28th January 2006, 16:08

All going well I'll see you on this run armed with my camera as usual. Probably come on Mrs merv's bike seeing this is meant to be a Newbie ride.

Sparky Bills

28th January 2006, 16:29

Ill see you all there.
Ill be availible to give a couple lessons.. I cost $650 a day. (thats cheap enough isnt it?) HAHA,

Looks like the weathers gonna be outstanding like it is today!
Looking forward to it.

phoenixgtr

28th January 2006, 17:09

Oh yeah. Can't wait. My leaks fixed. Just went 4 a quicky round the bays and she feels soooo good. Felt like I could push her so much further. See you all there :D

Slingshot

29th January 2006, 08:04

The weather's a bit poos so I'm gonna flag it today.

merv

29th January 2006, 08:16

Don't be a woos its all going to lift, its only fog and we are aiming for a 27 deg high today if you believe the forecast.

We'll be there.

Wasp

29th January 2006, 08:20

forecasts are shit, im not comming.

Fatjim

29th January 2006, 08:26

Wellington
Fog and moring drizzle. 27 degress

Masterton
Mainly fine. Hot with light winds. 28 degrees

Whats crap about that?

sels1

29th January 2006, 08:30

Its brilliant here in Kapiti, I've just been for a swim at the beach.
Checked the forecast - Waiararapi heading for 28 deg high. Ignore morning mist / drizzle - this will soon clear as the day heats up. Dont be put off folks, its going to be a good day!

Wasp

29th January 2006, 08:57

its fucking blowing a gale.

The_Dover

29th January 2006, 09:07

Get on yer scooters you soft cocks!

Kendog

29th January 2006, 13:25

Hi all, I'm home for anyone who may have wondered if I'd got off my bike somewhere and couldn't get back on! (haha):whistle: . Had a great ride with you all, and really enjoyed meeting you all, (well those I met!), decided not to carry on over the hill, and had a cruisey ride home over the Haywards etc :mellow: . Hope all went well with the rest of the ride and look forward to meeting up for another ride soon. Special 'thank you' to magicfairy for letting me follow her :spudwave: and hubby BusaJim for sitting his huge bike next to me while I got on!:thud: Hehe, what a girly blouse I am!:innocent:
Cheers guys, take it easy!
Mrs Kendog.

magicfairy

29th January 2006, 16:13

Special 'thank you' to magicfairy for letting me follow her :spudwave: and hubby BusaJim for sitting his huge bike next to me while I got on!:thud:
Mrs Kendog.

No problem - it was really nice to meet you. Would be nice to to go out for a "girls" ride sometime. BusaJim is itching to get back out with the fast riders, so I am looking for someone to ride at my pace. And its so nice to meet some other ladies riding for a change...
It was a great day out - big thanks to the organisers:2thumbsup

Wasp

29th January 2006, 16:25

Yea great ride guys.

about half an hour ago i was in the carpark riding a CBR600 and it had soooooooooooooooooo much more power, over revved at starting then again at take off lol, soo much fun, thanks guys!

Kendog

29th January 2006, 17:47

No problem - it was really nice to meet you. Would be nice to to go out for a "girls" ride sometime. BusaJim is itching to get back out with the fast riders, so I am looking for someone to ride at my pace. And its so nice to meet some other ladies riding for a change...
It was a great day out - big thanks to the organisers:2thumbsup

Sounds good, pm me sometime. My hubby would be keen to go for a 'big boys ride' with your hubby sometime too!!:ride:

RantyDave

29th January 2006, 18:32

What an astouding day out. Good company, good riding, good weather.

Big props to organisers, grownups or whoever for showing up and keeping the pace down to a level suitable for us noobs. I got to see some real good riding too - Jim flopping his busa gently down the back end of the 'takas was a work of art.

Again, cheers guys :)

Dave

Dafe

29th January 2006, 18:55

Uncle B does it again! Well done Bruce on a successful days ride.
So when is the next one?

phoenixgtr

29th January 2006, 19:32

Twas great. Looking forward to the next 1. I had so much fun even tho I was having problems with my bike.

Wasp, you got to ride a CBR600? Damn, wheres my luck? See you all later

Uncle B

29th January 2006, 21:00

The ride seemed to be a success so if there was enough interest maybe we could look at making this a once a month ride?
I'm happy to organise/lead/tag along if it's a go.

magicfairy

30th January 2006, 07:25

I'm keen. Can't speak for BusaJim, I think he may want to play with the big boys next time...

phoenixgtr

30th January 2006, 07:59

I'm definately keen for a once a month ride

sels1

30th January 2006, 11:26

The ride seemed to be a success so if there was enough interest maybe we could look at making this a once a month ride?
I'm happy to organise/lead/tag along if it's a go.

Likewise. Even have some ideas about varying the route.

madboy

30th January 2006, 11:38

Can we do the east-west drag strip next time? Mrs Madboy was very disappointed I was good all day.

Str8 Jacket

30th January 2006, 11:49

Yeah once a month would be awesome, id definately be keen to come along to them. I had the best ride ive had for a long time and was able to relax and think about my riding without having to "keep up" with anyone.

hsvboy06

30th January 2006, 12:13

Firstly, a BIG thanks to Uncle B for organising this ride - personally I would say it was the best ride I've ever been on (bar one minor point) because I actually got to ride with other people - I always had bikes in front and behind - brilliant - a real "group" ride at last!
I'd definitely be keen to make this a once per month ride - something easy to remember like the 1st Sunday of every month would be good (although that's TSS's ride day, which some might care about).

The minor bad point...? I had my first coming together with the hard black stuff. Coming down the 'takas on the way back I found out that turning into a corner just doesn't work when you're riding over an oil slick.
Damage report: To me - a minor graze on my arm (I've definitely had worse from other "safer" sports); to my gear - a couple of holes in my pants (I wanted to buy new ones anyway), a hole in my glove, and a scuffed boot; to my bike - rear brake lever bent (no way I can bend it back - soon to be replaced), the chrome pipe shield (what is this for anyway? I thought the bike didn't look all that bad when it was off altogher) is scraped badly, one bar end is toast (easily replaced), and some very minor scratches on the fairing (but I mostly polished those out). The worst part is that I'm intending to sell this bike in a few weeks and I wasn't wanting to spend money on it at this stage of the game (and I was wanting to say "mint condition; never dropped" but I can't do that now, I suppose). The good news is that I didn't wait until I had a shiney new bike before trying this new experience.

A BIG thanks to all those that stopped (I think everyone behind me did) and helped me get going again. I probably wouldn't have known what to do if I'd been on my own, and this is another reason why a group ride like this is awesome.

For a brief moment I did think that this was perhaps a sign that I shouldn't be riding a motorcycle because it is too dangerous and I *will* fall off (I had started to think I was being careful enough to never fall off). But no, I'm determined to keep going, provided I can learn something from this incident. So, what can I learn? What did I do wrong? I don't think I was going too fast or taking stupid lines or anything. My back tyre is pretty bald, but I believe it was the front one that slipped out, and it looks like new. Are the FXR's skinny tyres part of the problem - would a bigger bike have slipped in the same way? Or is it simply that I should have seen the diesel on the road, realised it was slippery, and gone around it? To be honest, I don't think I had any idea that it was there until I was standing on the roadside looking back up the hill. I guess I was too busy concentrating on other things, like not hitting the car in front of me. As a newbie, I more than likely need more experience so that "seeing" and reacting to these hazards becomes instinctive. I'd like to hear your thoughts, and particularly from those that actually saw it happen. Thanks.

James Deuce

30th January 2006, 12:21

Or is it simply that I should have seen the diesel on the road, realised it was slippery, and gone around it? ........... I guess I was too busy concentrating on other things, like not hitting the car in front of me.

These two things are the key. I've only had one single vehicle accident, it was on the Rimutakas, and I fell off on diesel avoiding a minor slip.

The second point about following the vehicle is a big one. Always ride your own ride, don't use the vehicle in front as a guide or marker. Possible if you weren't so close you may have spotted the diesel slick, but then I'd be inclined to chalk it up to one of those things.

Good attitude.

Str8 Jacket

30th January 2006, 12:26

hsvboy06 - Having had a couple of accidents myself I know how easy it is to start thinking about what happened over and over but as hard as it is sometimes it best not to think too much about it. The oil patch that you hit was huuge and what happened to you could have happened to any one of us. Its good to hear that your still ok and big ups to you for riding back home after it you must have been a bit shaken up?!
I think its a lesson to all of us that its really important to check out the road conditions etc, when a few of us were stopped at Caltex on the way home we talked with a few other riders and none of them noticed the oil either, so in a lot of ways they were lucky (maybe?). At the end of the day you are sweet the bike is pretty much ok and you still want to keep riding so things can only get better. Sure you'll be a but more cautious when your riding for a bit longer but is that really a bad thing!

James Deuce

30th January 2006, 12:29

....Sure you'll be a but more cautious when your riding for a bit longer but is that really a bad thing!

He isn't a girl, so it isn't an option for him. Go hard or go home.

J/k

Str8 Jacket

30th January 2006, 12:32

He isn't a girl, so it isn't an option for him. Go hard or go home.

J/k

lol, hear that hsvboy06?

gee im glad im a "girl" :shake:

Slingshot

30th January 2006, 12:55

I didn't see the off but I did see the diesel. I was probably heading down the hill 10ish minutes before your group started the decent.

We were going at a reasonable pace and I remembered thinking "shit, diesel" as we rode over it...I got lucky though cause the rubber held the road and on we went.

It sounds like you got lucky too. If it was corner that I'm thinking about...it would have been a right hander, so at least you would have slid away from the on-coming traffic. You managed to get up and ride away which in my book is always a sign of good luck!

***Edit..didn't know my right from my left***

hsvboy06

30th January 2006, 13:18

Having driven a cage for more than 20 years (without a single accident, I might add) I think I have some pretty good "on road" instincts. However, in a cage you don't really have to worry about the road surface, so as a newbie biker I think I need to add that to the list of things that need to be programmed into my subconcious.

I don't want to over analyse the whole thing, but I also don't want to forget it and take the "I was unlucky - it'll never happen again" attitude, because then it probably will!

Wasp

30th January 2006, 14:31

Wasp, you got to ride a CBR600? Damn, wheres my luck? See you all later

heh well you coulda followed me instead of turning right at that roundabout, i even looked for you for a bit after that, then spotted the bike when i was comming outta countdown.

ive spent all day today at work staring out the window wishing i could be out there riding it in this great weather.

phoenixgtr

30th January 2006, 14:40

Sorry. I dont know my way round the hutt. Only go there on the odd occasion.

You looked for me? I made it to queensgate.

So whos bike was it?

madboy

30th January 2006, 15:06

Sorry to hear about the bin, HSV. Still, every one you walk away from is a good one.

I was stopped on the way down the takas talking to a guy on a K5 20th annv Gixxer 750 that lost the front end. But I guess he got it going by the time you guys came past. Ironically, he (a very experienced rider) and I couldn't for the life of us figure out how he lost it on that corner (a right hander). None of us could see anything on the road surface (aside from Suzuki colours). Luckily it was mostly cosmetic so rideable, but it'll hurt the bank balance. He was fine.

Then two corners further down the hill I saw the diesel spill start, on the right handers. We just kept way the hell away from it, except one corner where it was headbutt truck or sample the diesel. We won vs the diesel. I'm suspecting that perhaps the unlucky Gixxer dude managed to get the first of the spill, where it was just enough to slick the surface without being enough to actually see.

MidnightMike

30th January 2006, 15:16

Sorry for the hijack but would anyone here be able to testride a bike for me?
PM me for details. Thanks :spudwave:

merv

30th January 2006, 17:29

hsv as you know I was heading off down the hill with you and Sels1, and Sels1 was behind you and me behind him. My line of sight was ahead and around that right-hander when down went a bike to the left of where I was looking. My immediate thought was sels1 had bit it but then when I focus on the bike I saw it was your bike skidding along the ground and the scraping sound was quite distinctive, not a sound you hear often - luckily.

The way your bike went down was a pure lowside - steering turned quite sharp by the time it hit the deck and it just skidded off to the outside of the curve. Sels1 somehow managed to miss you on the road and I was able to pull up behind you and the bike.

So what happened? No question you were caught by the slippery surface, but as for advice I can only think of a few things:

Had you changed down enough gears for the corner? Rightly or wrongly on the bikes I am always down into the gear I will power out of the corner in before I completely enter the corner. This helps with better control using the throttle if you do skid at all.

How hard did you grab the front brake given you were following a car - the guy who was nice enough to come and see if you were OK? This is back to the gear comment, because more use of gears is less need for brake. When you started to lose the front end did you feel it, or was it just too quick? Otherwise you've got to get off that brake instantly, apply a bit more back brake to slow it down and flick the handlebars and the bike itself against the slide - a bit like opposite lock in a car. Easy for me to say, I have had years on dirt bikes used to slippery surfaces and on bikes with big front wheels and wide handlebars that are easily flickable. Those are things you can only learn through practice and experience - so don't give up, and count yourself lucky it was a right hand turn and you weren't at risk from opposing traffic.

It was good riding with you and I do hope you haven't been put off. See you again.

Wasp

30th January 2006, 17:32

cowpoos

30th January 2006, 18:10

I was stopped on the way down the takas talking to a guy on a K5 20th annv Gixxer 750 that lost the front end. But I guess he got it going by the time you guys came past. Ironically, he (a very experienced rider) and I couldn't for the life of us figure out how he lost it on that corner (a right hander).

and before someone asks...it wasn't me...

the strange thing is though is I had big problems with my front end on my bike till spunky balls [martin] and I had a play at manfield... it would tuck serverly when you power on exciting a corner...an odd trait to come strait from a new/factory set up bike....Hmmm...

SPman

30th January 2006, 18:28

I headed back over about 1.45 but saw no diesel.....musta been spilled after that.

phoenixgtr

30th January 2006, 18:28

lol, i spent 5 minutes hooning around qgate carpark, got some air off the ramps and all ya know :P

can't remember the guys name, he didnt have his license and neither did his brother, bike wasnt rego'd or wof'd. he's gonna come join us as soon as he gets his sprocket and chain fixed.

i still dont understand where this oil spill was, i never saw or slid across anything....

I'm surprised you didn't see my bike parked up. Oh well. You going on TRTNR? You still gotta get your cam chain replaced don't you? Don't know if I'll be going this week. The missus is starting to complain that I spend all my time and money on my bike. (which is true)

phoenixgtr

30th January 2006, 18:35

Went to Motomart tonight and got my leak fixed. Turns out I had 2 holes in the tube. Its really weird cause theres obviously no mark on the tyre, so I hadn't hit anything. May have happened when they fitted the tyre, don't know. So it's balanced and it's full of air. Shes never felt better to ride, ever. It's never felt easier to lean her over. Had a great blat back from the hutt

madboy

30th January 2006, 18:40

Yeah, poos, this one was on the entry to the corner judging by the marks. Just as he turned in really. Identical to your bike too, except this one has additional marks of manhood now.

And he was no where near as sexy as you.

cowpoos

30th January 2006, 19:30

And he was no where near as sexy as you.

that goes without saying...you didn't need to post it... everyone knows how hot I am.....

Uncle B

31st January 2006, 20:50

Looks like these rides are the go with the amount of requests for a regular Newbie ride.
Been thinking that mid month would be better as not to clash with other first of the month rides.
If there are no objections to this, shall we make the next Newbie ride on the 12 Feb? Then every mid month after that.

Shadows

31st January 2006, 22:51

On that diesel spill, I wasn't on the ride as we had visitors from o'seas but we did go for a drive up there for a coffee and a view. Yes, I know, another frikken car on the hill! Saw a trail of diesel around most of the right handers coming back down. It stood out like dogs balls to me but I'm tuned into that kind of thing after a couple of incidents a while ago when I was still 10 feet tall and bullet proof.
Another thing I noticed was on one of the right handers halfway down to the foothills on the Hutt side a nice big black skid mark heading straight off the corner. Looked like a bike's tyre, whoever it was must have tried unlocking the wheel as the line became dotted towards the end. Didn't look like if would have helped much though.
Was that anybody here?

magicfairy

1st February 2006, 06:53

Excellent and Thank you. I'll be there.

Str8 Jacket

1st February 2006, 07:27

12 Feb? Sure thing Uncle B I'll be there!

hsvboy06

1st February 2006, 08:04

...next Newbie ride on the 12 Feb? Then every mid month after that.
That gets my vote. Thanks Uncle B.

hsvboy06

1st February 2006, 08:10

On that diesel spill...It stood out like dogs balls to me but I'm tuned into that kind of thing...
That's the "vision" that a newbie like me lacks - it didn't even show on my radar. Hopefully next time it will!

...a nice big black skid mark... whoever it was must have tried unlocking the wheel as the line became dotted towards the end.
I don't think that was me, as I'm pretty sure I didn't touch the brakes. The memories are a bit vague, but I think I was going at a good speed to take the corner, and just lost it when I leaned in. Ho hum.

phoenixgtr

1st February 2006, 09:08

Sounds awesome Uncle B. The 12 of Feb is all good. Just in time for my BDay. I'll definately be there :D

Charlie

1st February 2006, 12:54

Missed the ride but sounded great! Still a newbe and keen to do some more group rides!

madboy

1st February 2006, 13:00

Another thing I noticed was on one of the right handers halfway down to the foothills on the Hutt side a nice big black skid mark heading straight off the corner. Looked like a bike's tyre, whoever it was must have tried unlocking the wheel as the line became dotted towards the end. Didn't look like if would have helped much though.
Was that anybody here?Refer to my post earlier. It was a chap on a gixxer 750, not a KB member. Nice guy, nice bike. Walked away.

sels1

1st February 2006, 15:06

Sels1 somehow managed to miss you on the road

Wasnt too difficult...2 second rule and all that. (and the Tiger is more nimble than it looks!) HSV wasnt going very fast through that corner but was just leaning over (on quite narrow tyres on those bikes) when he hit the diesel and his front end went south. its a reminder to all of us to study the road surface more intently......

Trudes

22nd March 2007, 10:28

Ok peoples, is anyone interested in rehashing Uncle B's Newbie ride??
Who's keen to come along?
Who would like to put their hand up to be a mentor/helper/leader/TEC?

Remember this is a slow paced ride for newer riders or people who are not overly confident to go out for a ride with other newer peeps and some very experienced wisely type people to encourage and give tips etc.
So come on people, lets do this......:scooter:

James Deuce

22nd March 2007, 10:32

I'll help, if you need it.

Madness

22nd March 2007, 10:33

Who would like to put their hand up to be a mentor/helper/leader/TEC?

Not so sure I'm Mentor material, would be happy to help out though. Maybe TEC or even out front, doesn't matter really.

Easter is coming up soon.

Matt

22nd March 2007, 10:38

Keen to come along, be at the back (what does TEC stand for??)/help where I can!

How about 1st or 8th April?

Matt

Madness

22nd March 2007, 10:48

Tail End Clarence

Trudes

22nd March 2007, 10:51

Thanks for the offers Jim and Maximusdemeritus (I hope I spelt that right, it's quite a handful!), that's the spirit and yay!! That's one keen rider! Yeah, prefered dates would be good too. Easter would be good I reakon, but a lot of people have other committments then, so how about everyone who's interested also state a good date for them too!

Just a side thought, what would everyone think of doing a KB whip round to go towards getting a plaque for Uncle B (if people are interested I can do some research into the cost etc) as Crasherfromwayback suggested here:

Just an idea Guys and Gals.....a few years ago now, a good friend of mine passed away in nasty circumstances. We (his close friends) contacted our local Council and had them build and install a memorial seat complete with plaque, on the side of Mt Vic here in Wellington.

We go up there from time to time and have a drink to his memory.

It's not expensive, and it's a great way to remember a lost friend.

I can see his seat from the lounge in my apartment, and it gets used all the time. It gives me a great feeling to know that most people that sit there, will read the plaque and wonder who this guy was!

Would anyone be keen to sort out such a seat for the KB'ers missing in action?

I know who to contact now.....so it wouldn't take long to sort?

Pete

Wasp

22nd March 2007, 10:54

Im in for the Plaque and newbie ride.

I was going to organise the newbie ride myself ages ago but that all went down hill after my bin in october - happy to help out where I can

Trudes

22nd March 2007, 11:16

Just been talking to Hutt City Council and they can put a remembrance seat with a plaque or engraved back on it in Avalon Park (Duck/Elephant Pond) or anywhere we like (as can WCC with the Botanical gardens or Mt Vic etc, but I thought the duck pond would be a nice sight!) for $500 for the seat and concrete etc and we'd have to pay extra for the plaque or engraving or if we had a very talented engraver in our ranks, they could do it and engrave whatever we want on it!
Otherwise if we decided that was too expensive? we can always get a brick to go in the Garden of Remembrance, which is about $60 I think.
What do people think? Any other ideas? Should I get stuffed and :shutup: ?

James Deuce

22nd March 2007, 11:28

The seat is a brilliant idea!

Trudes

22nd March 2007, 11:34

Well I thought so too Jim, sounds a lot of $$ but divided between 25, 40, 50 people, then not really, especially if someone engraves the seat back for free for us, in which case we can put whatever we like on it! The lady I was talking to is sending me a plan for the Avalon Park upgrade, and we would basically get to choose where we want the seat to go.:yes:

Oh My God, I just thought, wonder if we could put a seat at the top of the hill?

Wasp

22nd March 2007, 11:47

I like the idea of Avalon park (besides the ducks will crap on it), when is this upgrade going to take place? (first ive heard of it) can we get it near the carpark where we meet? (will the carpark move?)

if 50 people put in $10 each its no problem at all

Crasherfromwayback

22nd March 2007, 11:58

Thanks for the offers Jim and Maximusdemeritus (I hope I spelt that right, it's quite a handful!), that's the spirit and yay!! That's one keen rider! Yeah, prefered dates would be good too. Easter would be good I reakon, but a lot of people have other committments then, so how about everyone who's interested also state a good date for them too!

Just a side thought, what would everyone think of doing a KB whip round to go towards getting a plaque for Uncle B (if people are interested I can do some research into the cost etc) as Crasherfromwayback suggested here:

I've spoken to LB's family regarding the 'seat' idea, and I think they're pretty keen to get something happening, they've simply got too much on their plate right now.

Maybe if someone that know's U B's partner personally was to contact her we could look at doing either a combined seat, or two.

Like I say, the one we had the council build for Grant is fantastic and in a great place. If anyone would like to see it to get some inspiration, let me know, I'll tell you how to get there!

They're not expensive, and I reckon a great place to meet/hang out!

Pete