Auckland: AWNMR - Auckland Wednesday Night Mentor Ride ('07) [Archive]

Disco Dan

28th January 2007, 21:57

What - Newbie training/confidence session
When - Wednesdays
Where - Meet at shell westgate then directed to a practice area nearby
Why - A chance for new riders and learners to get practical advice on your riding and learn new skills from site mentors.
Time - 6.30pm (Departing 7pm)

Directed at new riders looking for confidence and training -
all are welcome to attend and learn

Start with a briefing from KB Mentor followed by a short practice session in the "training area" Then a slow paced ride to put your newly learned skills to work in the "real" world.
This will NOT be a normal group ride its going to be 1 on 1 with your mentor to a maximum of 3 bikes in a group.

A stop in the middle to ask questions and recieve feedback on your riding.

Finishing at Miss Q's in Westgate for a drink/food and debriefing from mentor.

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Next Meeting - Wednesday 31st

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Please ask if you would like an escort to the venue and I will organise something for you

Just a note here folks
We are a bunch of reasonably experienced riders who are happy to pass on our riding experience in an informal way
It will NEVER replace training from Qualified instructors like the Ride Safe course or the 1 on 1 training people like TRICIA1000 are able to give you --- Frosty

PLEASE FOLKS THIS IS NOT A GENERAL OPEN RIDE -IF YOU WANNA SHOW OFF YOUR MONO SKILLS DO IT ANOTHER NIGHT

*** NEWBIES AND MENTORS PLEASE SIGN UP HERE *** (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=1132&day=2007-1-31&)

Disco Dan

28th January 2007, 22:06

Started new thread by popular demand!

This week we are all 'practical' and those that feel upto it have the oppurtunity for a short slow ride:

OK - This wednesday the mentors and I have decided to have a slow easy ride. Its going to be nice and slow, with no pressure at all too go out of your comfort zone. We will meet at westgate, shell as usual and i will brief you all on our route and group riding techniques.

- You need to make sure you have enough fuel in your bike.
- Make sure your tyre pressures are correct (if you need help just ask one of us).
- And that at 7pm you are ready to leave (so get there at 6.30pm so you can be ready)

Also if you are 'very new' or feel you cannot do this ride, I will also set up the cones in the carpark and have a couple of mentors with those people to go through the basics.

Again I ask that you sign up on the calender entry (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=1132&day=2007-1-31&) so I can organise enough mentors to cover everyone, and please dont hesitate to PM me if you would like a mentor escort you to westgate.

(note the calender entry 'sign up' is for EVERYONE - mentors and newbies, and regardless of wether your doing the ride or staying in the car park)

slinky

28th January 2007, 22:17

should be there

white belt

29th January 2007, 07:33

Having to work, so won't be able to make it. Sounds like I'll be missing a good one.:bye:

Have fun.

Disco Dan

29th January 2007, 19:16

Just a note that you need to sign up before wednesday, as it seems the "I will be attending this event" disapears on wednesday.

Plus you all wouldnt want to miss out on seeing me fall off, and impale myself on those little plastic road cones ;) hehe

deathstar

29th January 2007, 19:19

oohh can i be a mentor please pretty pretty please? i swear i won't crash well not until tomorrow

Big Dog

29th January 2007, 22:23

Definately a noob this week.....
If any of you have friends who want to learn how to ride this would be a good night to bring them along to pillion with a mentor, or if you want to be a pillion your self.

My pillion seat will be empty. Post here if you want to be pillioned or if you want to bring someone to try it.
First in first served.

Big Dog

29th January 2007, 22:26

Oh if there are more pillions than seats I may go for several shorter rides to accomodate.

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 10:07

Cheers big dog, remeber its a slow ride though especially if you have a newb on the back ;)

Chisanga

30th January 2007, 11:51

Hopefully I will have time this week to cruise out and say hello to you guys. I'll try and make the effort :)

The Stranger

30th January 2007, 11:56

So still planning on heading out to Huia?

Did the ride on Sunday and it is a good route. Quite a variety of hazards and it is going to force people to consider their braking and cornering. There is a bit of variety in the types of corners - long sweepers and tight twisties. None of it is a problem given a sane pace, but it will give plenty of opportunity for observers to pick up on
a variety of things.

Only problem I see is that it will take an hours travel time to get there and an hour to get back with a group, not allowing for stops.
Could consider a couple of things if this is a problem. Starting earlier, starting a bit closer say at Bruce Mclaren rd or the bottom of Don Buck rd. or not going all the way out to Huia - say stop at the dam instead.

Karma

30th January 2007, 12:04

I'd be up for either an earlier start or change of location.

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 13:07

Only problem I see is that it will take an hours travel time to get there and an hour to get back with a group, not allowing for stops.
Could consider a couple of things if this is a problem. Starting earlier, starting a bit closer say at Bruce Mclaren rd or the bottom of Don Buck rd. or not going all the way out to Huia - say stop at the dam instead.

hmm, may be good to stop at the dam - some people work during the day? Would also be good to get to the pub and talk about the ride with your mentor? (my 2c)

Blondini

30th January 2007, 19:32

Blondini

30th January 2007, 19:35

PM for tea or coffee.Or just have some faith.Dislocated..let me know If you want me to sort it:yes: :done: :love:And we can all admire the views for a while...While we still can..my 2c

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 19:46

I adapt easily ,I think CaN is onto a good idea ..meeting location changed for this week to nearer(Perhaps and it is just a suggestion..pyes pa car park?, )and to the dam?which one..I assume the nearest one ...so we will have to pass it to turn safely with a group.I think this is a good idea . Remember we are learning still please.I know I want to be able to at least keep up but there are others more nervous...little bites:yes: I can arrange a drink at the dam just have to ask nice.

Cheers for your feedback Julie, my concern is changing the meeting points will lead to a higher rate of organisational errors... prefer to keep things as simple as possible.

If CaN's estimate of one hour for the ride is correct we are looking at least 9:30 - 10 pm arrival back at westgate... For some this may be too long a ride. As this is the first 'ride', I suggest keeping it short...

I may be way off base though, so keep the feedback flowing...

Chisanga

30th January 2007, 19:52

we are looking at least 9:30 - 10 pm arrival back at westgate.

This doesn't give those on an L-Plate (or restricted) much time to get home before the (ridiculous) curfew... especially those who live in East Aucks :)

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 19:54

This doesn't give those on an L-Plate (or restricted) much time to get home before the (ridiculous) curfew... especially those who live in East Aucks :)

thats right :yes: another reason to keep it pretty short.

Chisanga

30th January 2007, 19:56

I would prefer that we are finished and back at Westgate by 9pm at the latest so I don't need to rush home. Assuming I can make it there at all that is :)

Blondini

30th January 2007, 20:13

Cheers for your feedback Julie, my concern is changing the meeting points will lead to a higher rate of organisational errors... prefer to keep things as simple as possible.

If CaN's estimate of one hour for the ride is correct we are looking at least 9:30 - 10 pm arrival back at westgate... For some this may be too long a ride. As this is the first 'ride', I suggest keeping it short...

I may be way off base though, so keep the feedback flowing...

Yes very true I was taught by one of the better teachers that said the K.I.S.S .method,works best..Keep It Simple Stupid...complications only lead to more complications and before you know it......:shutup: But I can still arrange mobile Coffee:shutup: :yes:Why rush back from a beautiful setting?

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 20:21

I would prefer that we are finished and back at Westgate by 9pm at the latest so I don't need to rush home. Assuming I can make it there at all that is :)

Yes, that is a good time to aim for, as we need to accomodate those that have families/work/curfews etc

Yes very true I was taught by one of the better teachers that said the K.I.S.S .method,works best..Keep It Simple Stupid...complications only lead to more complications and before you know it......:shutup: But I can still arrange mobile Coffee:shutup: :yes:

:yes: :yes: Well said.

As there is two groups this week -

one doing the short ride
one staying at westgate to practice

...both groups need to finish at the same time and move across to the pub for a debriefing.

The westgate groups timing is alot easier to fiddle with, but the ride needs careful thought and planning to ensure we dont set the new riders up for failure. It needs to be a good experience in order to promote further confidence and ensure the next stages of their learning can proceed.

(sheesh sound like a teacher already :innocent:)

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 20:27

CaN - Im handing over the leadership of the riding group to you tomorrow evening!

Riding group: Meeting at Shell Westgate 6:30 PM - follow CaN on ride and back to the pub in westgate by 9 PM. This includes stops.

Westgate group: Meeting at Shell Westgate 6:30 PM - follow me to the practice area for braking and avoidance practice. Meeting at pub at 8:30 - 9 PM.

Blondini - I gather your part of the riding group tomorrow? If you would like to organise refreshements during your ride you are of course most welcome too.

Blondini

30th January 2007, 20:30

Whatever suits.I will be there,God willing.:love:

Blondini

30th January 2007, 20:33

Blondini - I gather your part of the riding group tomorrow? If you would like to organise refreshements during your ride you are of course most welcome too.[/QUOTE]Only If requested,only trying to be helpful:yes:

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 20:44

oh, just read your posts! was PM'ing you! hehe

slinky

30th January 2007, 20:47

sorry cant make it this week

Blondini

30th January 2007, 20:55

sorry cant make it this week

AWwWWwwwww

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 21:00

sorry cant make it this week

*waits for dam good blimin excuse* :wait: hehe

Chisanga

30th January 2007, 21:04

*waits for dam good blimin excuse* :wait: hehe

Go on Teacher Dan ... make him do lines :p

Blondini

30th January 2007, 22:39

I heard FROSTY was back so best he be there to keep us all in check and give us a full update:yes: :woohoo: :jerry: :2thumbsup :wavey: :grouphug:

Karma

30th January 2007, 22:41

I may be there, may not, got a real early (4am) start tomorrow, so I should really be asleep about now :S

Well if I'm not there... erm... well... not sure anyone would notice :(

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 22:52

I may be there, may not, got a real early (4am) start tomorrow, so I should really be asleep about now :S

Well if I'm not there... erm... well... not sure anyone would notice :(

aww weasel, i would notice! Hope you can make it dude!

and if not... your on detention ;)

Big Dog

30th January 2007, 23:09

A fun little short ride is the bethels run. About an hour return from westgate goodly sized carpark if a refreshment stop is in order just BYO hot or cold beverages.
Newer riders or those without knowledge of this road will take about an hour and a half return. What a place to see for your self how much extra visibility you have in corners if you pick a good line and how bad it can be if you pick the wrong line.
Nothing two scary but lots of blind corners.

Disco Dan

30th January 2007, 23:14

slinky

31st January 2007, 07:50

my excuse? im going wakeboarding after work.....
need to go'n show my mates up, i can now do a 180!!

Lteejay

31st January 2007, 09:33

So whats it to be - Out to the Dam or Bethels. As I dont know the roads at all, I am happy with any run as long as it doesn't go too late. They both sound like good rides :scooter:

Disco Dan

31st January 2007, 09:41

So whats it to be - Out to the Dam or Bethels. As I dont know the roads at all, I am happy with any run as long as it doesn't go too late. They both sound like good rides :scooter:

both good rides, the dam ride is alot more twisty and thus more 'challenging' but bethels has a couple of tricky corners too. Both would be good if taken at the correct speed!

Will 'nut things out' with the mentors and let you all know final route at wetgate. Either way you will be back by 9pm in westgate.

Morcs

31st January 2007, 12:36

Ill be there as usual. :scooter:

Disco Dan

31st January 2007, 12:46

Just picked up my new rear tyre this morning!! I asked mt eden very nicely if they would scrub my tyre in for me "newbike/never done it before" but they just took my money and pointed me to the door.. which was a shame. Slid around all over the show getting home :( ...biggest chicken strips I have ever seen on it at the moment :(

what should i be doing? ive never had the same bike long enough to ever need a new tyre before! hehe

Karma

31st January 2007, 12:55

Disco Dan

31st January 2007, 12:56

Oh FFS!!

hehe you were quick ;) ...its fun winding you up ;) :innocent: :innocent: :innocent:

The Stranger

31st January 2007, 13:00

what should i be doing? ive never had the same bike long enough to ever need a new tyre before! hehe

A big burnout is by far and away the best way break in a new tyre, but ensure you stop just before the canvas - Oh and don't forget to post the video.

Disco Dan

31st January 2007, 15:47

Riding group: Meeting at Shell Westgate 6:30 PM - follow CaN on ride and back to the pub in westgate by 9 PM. This includes stops.

Westgate group: Meeting at Shell Westgate 6:30 PM - follow me to the practice area for braking and avoidance practice. Meeting at pub at 8:30 - 9 PM.

See you all at westgate folks!

Jonny Rotten

31st January 2007, 16:09

i might come but i have to be home by 8:30 for that stupid lost program

vagrant

31st January 2007, 16:30

I'm in too.
Managed to turn up and work days today with out anybody complaining (or perhaps they just never noticed), so I have the night free. Yippee.
Gona try a toofer and do it tomorrow for the thursday ride as well.

Got my camera mount from the metal shop yesterday, all lovely and polished stainless, so tonight will be its roadtest. Hope it works as well as it looks. (insert "Bling" smiley here)

Ixion

31st January 2007, 16:34

I shall not be there . Werk.

Karma

31st January 2007, 16:37

I shall not be there . Werk.

No need to be rude...

Lteejay

31st January 2007, 16:48

Can't make it today, something has come up and have to be elsewhere. Hope everyone enjoys the ride.

irishlad

31st January 2007, 21:37

Karma

31st January 2007, 21:47

No worries mate, I was the guy on the gixxer thou.

Good ride by all, good to see that there's some skills coming into play and the feedback is relevant and stuff everyone should know.

Jacko2

31st January 2007, 21:52

Another good one, thanks Dan.
Nice Bike.

vagrant

31st January 2007, 22:18

An interesting wee ride tonight, I have never been down that area before, so I will have to head back for an explore I think.:scooter:
Saw some good skills being demonstrated, but also some pretty dodgy lines.

Remember, on tight roads like that, with random driveways, dog walkers and cyclists, not to mention cars:eek5: , the trick is to give your self maximum space between you and a possible threat. Start out wide on the approach to the corner so you can see as far round it as practible, but avoid making the centerline or the road edge your apex, a couple of feet inside those margins will give you a little more time and distance to deal with the unexpected.

The camera I had mounted on the bike tonight collected some good footage of our L platers. Now all I have to do is work out how to edit it down in size and Tube it:confused:
That can wait till tomorrow worktime I think.

Night all

Ps, anyone know how to fix mediaplayer, I seem to have killed it on this machine:doh:

The Stranger

31st January 2007, 22:21

Many thanks for a great session. Found it very enjoyable and useful. Many thanks to Noel, Frosty, man down under, crash & the others who watched me ride and offered some advice.
See you all next wednesday. Kevin
:Punk:

That's a pleasure.
Was great to see progress despite organisation not going as smoothly as I had hoped. I shall try and improve it next time.

I followed a couple of the noob bikes down onto Swanson rd and part way along Don Buck rd (one of the red Hyosungs) and you guys were doing bloody awesome - not sure who it was, but hey if it was you, well done. Damn, I'm a useless bastard when it comes to names and faces - sorry.

vagrant

31st January 2007, 22:22

Just noticed I got promoted tonight. I am now a "scooter boy":clap:

Big Dog

31st January 2007, 22:52

God that was sh%$! :sick:

Worst riding I have ever seen at one of these.

It was me.

Just one of those days I guess.

Sorry to all those that had to witness such atrocities, I guess I am just plain uncomfortable being followed after a few near off's with 250's trying to be heroes coming up the inside. Oh well good practice, I guess need to regain that group confidence somehow.

Disco Dan

1st February 2007, 01:42

:whistle: :whistle: :whistle: :whistle: :whistle:

tide

1st February 2007, 07:42

Damn, I'm a useless bastard when it comes to names and faces - sorry.

No worries mate comes with age :dodge: :dodge: :dodge:

Seriously thanks for the all the advice You, Frosty, Vagrant and all the other Mentors give, I know for myself it is works... :Punk:

Tide...

Karma

1st February 2007, 07:46

One thing I'd like to suggest would be to pay attention to staggered riding when heading to / from the twisty bits, this will allow the group to keep together nice and tight and ensure we don't get any cars trying to barge in.

This page here (http://www.neworleanshog.com/groupriding/part2.htm), has a good explaination of what staggered riding is.

Also needs to be noted that those at the front of the pack, at least in urban areas, should be keeping to a legal speed.

The Stranger

1st February 2007, 08:31

Just noticed I got promoted tonight. I am now a "scooter boy":clap:

Yeah, I noticed your riding getting better, so had a word with Frosty and we decided you deserved a promotion.

Well done.

The Stranger

1st February 2007, 08:35

No worries mate comes with age :dodge: :dodge: :dodge:

Yes, unfortunately in my case it was about age 16 when I developed a severe short term memory problem.

Morcs

1st February 2007, 08:52

:LOL: @the pic of deathstar!

Get that other pic up Dan... bit of controversy would be good :dodge:

Karma

1st February 2007, 08:54

:LOL: @the pic of deathstar!

Get that other pic up Dan... bit of controversy would be good :dodge:

Oh... titty pics?

Disco Dan

1st February 2007, 14:38

More pics from Kittyhawk:

some nice photography skills going on there ;) *poses*

...Deathstar... click here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=52430&d=1170269458) ;)

vagrant

1st February 2007, 16:58

Yeah, I noticed your riding getting better, so had a word with Frosty and we decided you deserved a promotion.

Well done.

Yes, unfortunately in my case it was about age 16 when I developed a severe short term memory problem.

So I guess I should consider it lucky that you remembered who I was!

Blondini

1st February 2007, 20:06

Another great night..THANKS to the mentors :yes: Thanks Vagrant for making my night with your words of encouragement,I really appreciated that so much.:love: I get a little nervous being followed ,I find I am more relaxed with just myself and no group,I really wanted to follow christines lines but alas I have a long way to go to keep up with her just yet:yes: Thanks again all.:Punk:

Mom

1st February 2007, 20:14

No worries mate comes with age :dodge: :dodge: :dodge:

Tide...

Age?????? hmmmmmm nice dodging BTW......LOL

irishlad

1st February 2007, 21:23

Hopefully up loaded some pics from theory evening.

Blondini

1st February 2007, 21:37

[QUOTE=vagrant;918600

The camera I had mounted on the bike tonight collected some good footage of our L platers. Now all I have to do is work out how to edit it down in size and Tube it:confused:

:soon: :laugh: :wait: :wait: :wait: :scratch: ::corn: :spudwave:

The Stranger

2nd February 2007, 09:37

Was great to see progress despite organisation not going as smoothly as I had hoped. I shall try and improve it next time.

Ok, re my comments above, I am looking for a guinea pig or 2 to experiment on to see what works best for the future.

If there are any noobs would like some one on one time in the waitaks with me this Sunday (the 4th) please pm me.