DB1k 08 - aka Dusty Butt 08 [Archive]

cooneyr

29th October 2007, 22:54

Another attempt has been planed for the Dusty Butt 1000kms in 24 hours adventure ride. This time we are doing it on the 5th of January 2008.

The route will be the same as last years i.e. roughly Nelson, Mangatapu, Molesworth, Rainbow, Porika, Breaburn, Murchison, Maruia Saddle, Springs Junction, Palmer Road, return to start of Porika, Tapawera, Mt Arthur, Thope, Wakefield, Nelson. See 2007 attempt thread for maps and roll charts. We may update the roll charts but will let you know later if we do i.e. dont go printing off roll charts just yet. Maps are here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=937468&postcount=58), here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=937475&postcount=59), here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=937480&postcount=60) and here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=938284&postcount=63) . Old roll charts (that may be updated yet) are here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=957320&postcount=100) and here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=957399&postcount=101).

Please dont take any notice of the details of the posts associated with each of these links as they are all for the 2007 attempt.

This year it is pretty much going to be each person for themselves in terms of organising others to ride with, safety, fuel, and food. We are providing the route details and will hopefully see you on the track. Staying as a big group last year was fun for the people involved but didn't contribute to the aim of the day. I would suggest if you plan on giving it ago, that make your own arrangements such as finding another rider who is keen to pair up with you for the day. Feel free to use this thread to make contact with other riders whom you could group up with.

Our little group for the day consists of Warewolf, Plug, Transalper and myself. We will be going for a not overly high average speed but will be keeping the number and length of stops to a minimum.

I will provide my contact cell phone for contact if the shit really hits the fan but it generally wont be much use till the day after i.e. bike recovery, as reception is pretty poor along most of the route.

Cheers Ryan

Update 20/12/07 - Revised

Seems the Molesworth is going to open after all. See this post 217 (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=1349148&postcount=217). The post 217 (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=1349148&postcount=217) also outlines some error fixes for the original route final roll chart (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=1315943&postcount=130).

I've left the Route B maps up here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=1348460&postcount=216) but I'm not going to put up the roll chart unless absolutely necessary.

warewolf

30th October 2007, 05:42

Good stuff!

Another thing to note vs 2007: for 2008 is that it will be run while the Rainbow road is open to the public therefore we won't have to arrange to pass the gate key.

NordieBoy

30th October 2007, 07:35

Skinny_Birdman

30th October 2007, 11:51

I may be a possible starter for a 2 day hit at the thing, Nordie. I don't think I could stand 1000km of gravel in one day... My plans for this time are still fluid tho...

cooneyr

30th October 2007, 12:32

Sounds good :D

How many would be in for a Dusty Butt 1000 - Daylighter?
Run in parallel starting at the same place/time but overnighting at St Arnaud and doing the 2nd half in daylight on the 6th?

Gives people who try the 24hr run a chance to finish if they have problems on the first day and may get more riders along as well as effectivly tail-end-charlie'ing the 24hr ride.

Either way, I'm in :woohoo:

Good idea Nordie. There were a few who were keen to do a two dayer last time so hopefully you'll get some takers. You could even do it as two days ex nelson if can be bothered carrying gear. Only about 150kms more.

Cheers R

Cheers R

PLUG

30th October 2007, 13:58

First light start ???

Zukin

30th October 2007, 14:06

It sounds good
I might even try it on the 250 :shit:

But then again, it is peak season on the ferry so it maybe too expensive to do the South Island twice in one month

Cheers Scott

cooneyr

30th October 2007, 14:10

First light start ???

Sunrise is at 0600 and sun set at 2100 roughly on 6th Jan, but there is probably another 30 mins light either way so start at 0530 again? Should have about 16 hours light that way which is about the longest we will get.

I'm playing with extra lights (30mm Halogen down lights that I had on my Mountain bike). Probably way to week to be any good but will cost me nothing.

Cheers R

cooneyr

30th October 2007, 14:11

It sounds good
I might even try it on the 250 :shit:

But then again, it is peak season on the ferry so it maybe too expensive to do the South Island twice in one month

Cheers Scott

Find a friendly trucky? Would be cool to have a few of you norf islanders down this way.

Cheers R

Zukin

30th October 2007, 14:18

Find a friendly trucky? Would be cool to have a few of you norf islanders down this way.

Cheers R

Or just bring the 650 and leave it down there for the SI passes ride :niceone:

Transalper

30th October 2007, 14:25

Sunrise is at 0600 and sun set at 2100 roughly on 6th Jan, but there is probably another 30 mins light either way so start at 0530 again?
Id say no latter than 5:30 kick off and make it prompt this time (was more like 5:45am when I recorded departure last time).
I'll have been in Nelson for almost a whole day and a half before so I'll have no excuses for being late or not getting a good early nights sleep prior to the big day this time.

cooneyr

30th October 2007, 14:25

Or just bring the 650 and leave it down there for the SI passes ride :niceone:

Be more suitable for the ride and I'm sure I can find a home for it in the garage or somebody else will have space.

Cheers R

Zukin

30th October 2007, 14:31

Be more suitable for the ride and I'm sure I can find a home for it in the garage or somebody else will have space.

Cheers R

Yes it would be, except I think it would struggle on Mangatapu and Porika?? It doesnt really do steep :mellow:

Then again its only a bike :)

cooneyr

30th October 2007, 14:38

Yes it would be, except I think it would struggle on Mangatapu and Porika?? It doesnt really do steep :mellow:

Then again its only a bike :)

Rubbish you'll piss bowl the Mangatapu and Porika on it. Busa Jim went up the Mangatapu two up last attempt on his GS and I know that Vstrom, Tiger, and Trannies have been over there on the last SI Passes ride. Plug has been over it on his F650 Dakar plenty as well. The Porika is a little rougher and not much steeper. Technique will be far more relevant that the DR250 vs the F650.

Cheers R

Transalper

30th October 2007, 15:36

I may well do a run up or over the Mangatapu the afternoon before just to get my head in the game too. It takes me about an hour from the centre of Nelson (the info centre where it all starts) to the Peloris Bridge on an average daylight run with enough safety margin in my speed to avoid any possibility of striking traffic such as 4x4s or mountain bikers on narrow blind areas.

Alpha Solo

30th October 2007, 15:54

I'm free then so count me in, sounds like a job for the GS!

:crazy:

far queue

30th October 2007, 17:14

How many would be in for a Dusty Butt 1000 - Daylighter?
Run in parallel starting at the same place/time but overnighting at St Arnaud and doing the 2nd half in daylight on the 6th?I'm keen on a 2 day version. But I wont be able to confirm until closer to the time due to xmas arrangements with kids etc being unknown at this point.

I may well do a run up or over the Mangatapu the afternoon before just to get my head in the game too.I'll do a run over it this weekend :devil2:

Lugzy23

30th October 2007, 17:24

Recomended tyre question? Knobbly or will dual purpose be ok

NordieBoy

30th October 2007, 18:18

Recomended tyre question? Knobbly or will dual purpose be ok

Really any tyre would be fine if you're comfortable on them in the gravel.

NordieBoy

30th October 2007, 18:19

It sounds good
I might even try it on the 250 :shit:

But then again, it is peak season on the ferry so it maybe too expensive to do the South Island twice in one month

The Port Nelson Street Races are on the 2nd...
Dusty on the 5th...

Transalper

30th October 2007, 18:25

Recomended tyre question? Knobbly or will dual purpose be ok
Nordie and I have both done the Mangatapu on balding rear tyres (Nordie had a smooth E07, I had an old Trailwing).
So long as its not real slippery from real big rains, dual purpose will be fine although knobs will indeed make it easier. Was a little area of wetness up there last couple of times over but we were fine.
The Porika track is similar from memory to the Mangatapu but all else is pretty well groomed.
I'm now running newish E07 herring bone pattern tyres at the moment and have had no issues with the parts of the course we've been remapping and timing recently. However I have a new rear E09 knob waiting up there for the day to get a bit more power down and will have a half worn e07 on front.
I'll have around 19 to 21psi in both ends when we go.

Balrog

30th October 2007, 19:19

I'm in

Just finished booking the ferry tickets.
We'll be arriving on the 3rd, looking forward to it.

Won't be doing it two up this time :)

cooneyr

30th October 2007, 19:52

Really any tyre would be fine if you're comfortable on them in the gravel.

What he said. Lots and lots of gravel, about the same amount of seal, a little bit of dirt, a tiny bit of solid rock and a tiny bit of concrete.

The Port Nelson Street Races are on the 2nd...
Dusty on the 5th...

Thats the plan, may be a run over the Mangatapu in or somewhere in between. Just make sure you recover from the sun burn and dehydration in between times.

Cheers R

Transalper

30th October 2007, 20:04

I'm in

Just finished booking the ferry tickets.
We'll be arriving on the 3rd, looking forward to it.

Won't be doing it two up this time :)Prey tell.... Thursday 3rd Jan 2008 - Boat to Picton 10:35am sailing???

magicfairy

30th October 2007, 20:52

Prey tell.... Thursday 3rd Jan 2008 - Boat to Picton 10:35am sailing???

Oops.
Bluebridge at lunchtime...in too much of a hurry to book online, we forgot about you guys.
Quite like the Bluebridge, they treat bikers better, are cheaper at that time of the year AND they let you book 2 bikes and 2 riders on one booking, Interislander you have to faff around doing 2 bookings, one for each bike/rider.

See ya soon

warewolf

30th October 2007, 21:06

Maungatapu is pretty chopped up at the moment, really whooped out in lotsa places. I came back that way a couple of weeks ago, Pelorus to Nelson, with MT90 A/T tyres and a little luggage. Bottomed out the 640 several times. I started most of the downhills idling in 1st due to the clay whoops, went bush a couple of times to get a half-decent line to the side. It's probably still doable in the rain on road tyres, for all that (uphill from Nelson, that is - Pelorus side is all rock).

Transalper

30th October 2007, 21:07

Oops.
Bluebridge at lunchtime...in too much of a hurry to book online, we forgot about you guys.
Quite like the Bluebridge, they treat bikers better, are cheaper at that time of the year AND they let you book 2 bikes and 2 riders on one booking, Interislander you have to faff around doing 2 bookings, one for each bike/rider.

See ya soon
Is ok, will see ya when we visit. Blueridge weren't taking bookings for that time when we arranged our trip, but yep, looks like we might have saved $30 each with them. Not worth changing the plan now. Will bear them in mind next time.

marks

30th October 2007, 21:52

However I have a new rear E09 knob waiting up there for the day to get a bit more power down and will have a half worn e07 on front.
I'll have around 19 to 21psi in both ends when we go.

If you have the e07 on the front when you have the e09 on the back I would be interested in how you find it on gravel.

I have a theory (based on my massive experience of 12 months on 2 wheels :rolleyes:) that a grunty back tire can overpower a modest front tire and cause more front end washouts. My xt660 certainly seemed to do that with an e09 on the back.

The back tire (dunlop 9..something) on my 450 is half rooted at 900k so I will try an e09 on that as I had great mileage out of the e09 on the 660.

Transalper

30th October 2007, 22:42

Isn't the answer to a front wheel washout in shingle to give it more gas.

On the Transalp I ran E07 front with E09 rear and it was great, really settled down the back in shingle where as with two e07s the rear would spin all over the place. Never had any problems with front wheel washouts with that set up on the Transalp. I guess in some circumstances it could happen like in real muddy conditions. May be that's a topic for another thread and someone more knowledgeable than me will tell us all a lesson. Until then I am happy with my choice but may stick my D606 rear on with the E07 front for a bit and push it to test your theory and see what happens.

Didn't your XT have a small fat 19 inch front, there were a couple of years in which i owned a bike with one of those fat 19inch fronts which indicated to me that fat 19inch fronts are prone to washing out more in gravel anyway regardless of tyre choices

warewolf

31st October 2007, 06:49

It's common on road bikes to fit a stickier front than rear, for better cornering feel but longer rear tyre life. The effect of doing this is to make the bike high-side prone... 'cos the rear is gonna let go first. :doctor:

Adventuring, people often run a chunkier front than rear, particularly on the bigger tyre-chewing bikes, for the same reasons as the roadies. BUT this combination makes the bike low-side prone (on the seal) which is a good thing - at least, better than high-side prone. Dirt bikes are designed to be ridden with the rear spinning up,:devil2: but do need a good front.

On my recent trip I used MT90 A/T fr & rr. They're nearly road tyres, I've usually got a semi-knobby on the front at least. I really noticed the bike not steering in the dirt:eek5:, but got used to it and really enjoyed the balanced feel of the bike - both ends slid uniformly:niceone:. I would be very interested to try a matched set of something aggressive.

mattsdakar

31st October 2007, 06:51

Hey guys,
I can make it this year, will probably ride up from Christchurch the day before (04Jan) if anyone wants to join me

Rgds Matt

cooneyr

31st October 2007, 07:17

Hey guys,
I can make it this year, will probably ride up from Christchurch the day before (04Jan) if anyone wants to join me

Rgds Matt

Make sure you get up there nice and early. To many of us were wasted last year from driving/riding up the day before.

Cheers R

Transalper

31st October 2007, 08:27

magicfairy

31st October 2007, 10:13

Zukin

31st October 2007, 10:26

magicfairy

31st October 2007, 10:59

So are you taking the car over, or just staying in Nelson while Jim is busting out his moves on the gravel :2thumbsup

I am taking my own bike (suzuki cruiser) so I have my own transport. I may even do a "not so Dusty Butt" on the day, and meet up with you guys at strategic points like Hamner, St Arnaud.

We are staying in Nelson until the 11th so will probably do a few rides together - or Ill leave my bike in Nelson and go with Jim and check out some nice Sth Island spots accessible only by gravel road - the Sounds, Golden Bay. We plan to take camping gear and have a bit of an Adventure holiday. But the 1000k is a bit too much of an Adventure for a pillion.

Transalper

31st October 2007, 11:00

I am jealous I won't be coming with you, but Ill be there in spirit, and hopefully around to wave you off, welcome you back (and hopefully not visit anyone in hospital)

Roll on Jan 5.
Once we have sussed out another time estimate you could use that to come wave at us again and again at various points along the way such as St Anaud and Murchison.

Oh I see you already thought of that.
It'll be real easy to be waiting at various places on the seal when we go through after dirt sections.
For example Nelson to Peloris is about 40 minutes by seal (i think thats what Nordie said) or 1 hour by dirt (thats what I say).

marks

31st October 2007, 11:56

Isn't the answer to a front wheel washout in shingle to give it more gas.

more gas on the 660 just increased the speed at which I became intimate with the scenery...

Didn't your XT have a small fat 19 inch front, there were a couple of years in which i owned a bike with one of those fat 19inch fronts which indicated to me that fat 19inch fronts are prone to washing out more in gravel anyway regardless of tyre choices

I would have loved a fat 19" wheel instead of the fat 17" motard wheel the 660 had...

mattsdakar

31st October 2007, 12:00

Toooo right. Riding the Rainbow up after work Friday, going to bed about 1:15am because I was disorganized enough to still be messing with stuff, then getting up at 4:45am to get breky and plug together the helmet camera in time to head to the meet as close to 5am as I could manage that round meant I went on the DB with only about 3.5 hours sleep. No wonder I wasn't up to it any more by 11pm on the big day.

Have a few days off prior so will probably cruise up thru the Rainbow leaving early Friday morning, won't be in a hurry want the bike in one piece for the main event!
Hopefully this time (without Alfs punctures) the goal can be achieved

NordieBoy

31st October 2007, 12:08

Alf had the first puncture but that only cost 30mins or so, BusaJim's sidewall tear was the time consuming one.

Also to note only TKC80's punctured.
Also also to note only BMW's had TKC80's that punctured.

:D

cooneyr

31st October 2007, 12:18

Hopefully this year at some of you will make it. .:woohoo:
A lot of lessons learned last time

BusaJim :love: will be going solo and hopefully a lot faster since he has been practicing all year with it in mind.

Not waiting for the key, being well rested and every man for themselves will greatly increase chances of success.

I think this is going to become the "NZ Dakar" for last years riders. Attempt it every year until success. And then some.

I am jealous I won't be coming with you, but Ill be there in spirit, and hopefully around to wave you off, welcome you back (and hopefully not visit anyone in hospital)

Roll on Jan 5.

You got the NZ Dakar/attempt each year till we get it correct. Just going to be a learning experience along the way. I think managing riding time vs group time, sleep (beforehand) and food (during) are the big issues from last year.

Would be cool to meet you along the way and I agree that we don't want anybody visiting hospital (though your visit was much appreciated).

Have a few days off prior so will probably cruise up thru the Rainbow leaving early Friday morning, won't be in a hurry want the bike in one piece for the main event!
Hopefully this time (without Alfs punctures) the goal can be achieved

Come up for the port races on the 2nd if you have time. Between Alf and BusaJims punctures we lost almost 3 hours if I remember correct.

This actually raises a very good point. If you get a puncture make sure you have enough stuff to fix it yourself and can do it yourself. Depending on how things go with the group your are in, you may be left on your own to do so and get yourself home (safely). Kinda harsh and hopefully it wont become a reality but it may. I think if anything major happens then the required number of people will have to stay back or pull out i.e. no leaving anybody by themselves if they cant get home or to safety/accommodation for the night.

Cheers R

Krusti

31st October 2007, 12:19

Have posted this before but for those interested. MNZ has a group booking deal with Interislander. Ring 0800 number and quote group booking code.:2thumbsup

Just thought you guys may like to know.

Have booked over the ph and paid at check in also.

http://www.mnz.co.nz/news2.aspx?SectionID=29&ArticleID=1274

Zukin

31st October 2007, 16:59

I am keen as mustard to have a crack at this :niceone:

Anyone keen to team up? I ride at a slow to medium pace, but can ride for a while without breaks :rolleyes:

Cheers Scott

Balrog

31st October 2007, 22:31

I am keen as mustard to have a crack at this :niceone:

Anyone keen to team up? I ride at a slow to medium pace, but can ride for a while without breaks :rolleyes:

Cheers Scott

Hey Scott
Great you're coming along :)

Not sure how quick I'm going to be on the day.
Was planning on just going as fast as I comfortably can
and see what pans out.

Would be happy to ride with you, but feel free to
zoom off if you find the pace to slow.
Its a long ride :sweatdrop

Jim

Zukin

31st October 2007, 22:43

Hey Scott
Great you're coming along :)

Not sure how quick I'm going to be on the day.
Was planning on just going as fast as I comfortably can
and see what pans out.

Would be happy to ride with you, but feel free to
zoom off if you find the pace to slow.
Its a long ride :sweatdrop

Jim

Hi Jim

No I think it maybe the other way round, you might ride a little quicker than I :niceone:

But then again if we start together we finish together, the only time I see some distance is at the gates, and in the dust :cool:
I would be delighted to ride with you for as long as we can :niceone:

Cheers Scott

Balrog

4th November 2007, 09:07

I've been doing a bit of reading on the ADVrider site.

Found this article by Neduro who produced the excellent DVD
dual sport riding techniques http://www.dualsportriding.com/

He's preparing to do the Baja 1000 ( which is a small event trying to copy the challenge of the dusty butt :) )
This snippet is about his riding strategy. He's making the point about
how consistency in riding pace produces better results in the end than a
few hot sections.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5556287&postcount=152

Although the dusty butt isn't a race, it does share a similar challenge of getting through a lot of terrain in one hit.

Just thought it was a bit of interesting reading to get the juices flowing for Jan.

:scooter:

NordieBoy

4th November 2007, 10:37

The cool one on AdvRider is AirbornAndy who is doing the Baja on a DR650 :D

warewolf

4th November 2007, 11:32

This snippet is about his riding strategy. He's making the point about how consistency in riding pace produces better results in the end than a few hot sections.Good reading indeed. He's really saying don't drop time by over-cooking it somewhere. Greg Power offers the same advice for enduros: don't plunge into a tricky spot ill-prepared and get stuck, hang back and have a good look then do it right first go.

I would like to mention that the DB08 sounds a little like "every man for himself". It's not, hence the suggestion to at least pair up, but rather we aren't going to travel in the one big group like last time.

On the Rusty Nuts run the Grand Challenge, which actually has a 24 time limit (we don't) it is made very clear that anyone stopping to help a fellow rider will have stoppage time factored back in. Plenty of people stop to help, few have to claim the stoppage time.

All along I've said that stoppage time will hurt your Dusty Butt... :spanking:

Transalper

4th November 2007, 22:55

Anyone planning to do this ride should make sure their bike is up to the job too.
For example on the Grand Challenge I believe they have a scrutinizing of all bikes before letting them ride which could well be more vigorous than a normal WOF. They want the bikes to have enough tyre life, brake pad material, wheel and steering bearings, and I guess chain and sprockets where applicable to be able to do the ride twice over.
I've just been reading a thread on a North Island 1000km ride where a rider had to burn time buying and fitting a new tyre mid ride and a second guy had to pull out and trailer to the end 730km in for the same reason. That will kill your chances of finishing the DB1000 if you can even source a suitable tyre mid ride, after Blenheim we don't exactly go through any towns with motorcycle shops in them.
Then on the Ulysses 1000km ride just been on Saturday one of the sports bikes in our group had a similar issue getting home with his steel belting showing itself as in the photo :spanking:
The rest of the bike was great but in my opnion he seriously under estimated how much life was in the tyre before the start.

I would have thought it a silly thing to have to point out, but these two examples made me think it was worth brining up in hope that you take an extra look at your bikes to make sure they are up to the day.

cooneyr

5th November 2007, 06:40

........I would like to mention that the DB08 sounds a little like "every man for himself". It's not, hence the suggestion to at least pair up, but rather we aren't going to travel in the one big group like last time.

On the Rusty Nuts run the Grand Challenge, which actually has a 24 time limit (we don't) it is made very clear that anyone stopping to help a fellow rider will have stoppage time factored back in. Plenty of people stop to help, few have to claim the stoppage time.

All along I've said that stoppage time will hurt your Dusty Butt... :spanking:

Thanks for reinforcing that WW. I didn't articulate that very well. No big group for "getting it done reasons" but cause of the remoteness and lack of support (or potentially long time to get help) you would be foolish to try the DB on your own. There is no cellphone coverage except at the town/fuel stops. Time wise you will have cellphone coverage for about 2 hours of the potential 18+ hours traveling.

An example of the time things take is when I had my crash back at easter 07. We were about 30kms from the Nelson end of the Rainbow i.e. about 120kms from Nelson and it took 3 hours between when I was found (found not crashed) and when the chopper arrived. With a bit of experience we could have got that down to just over two but that is still well outside the "golden hour". I was found within 10 mins so if you are by yourself it aint good!!!!!!

I also agree about the bike prep. I used up about 50% of the tread on a new rear tyre in 700kms on the last attempt.

Cheers R

cooneyr

6th November 2007, 20:06

See this thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=60437). We can still do the DB but if you at all care about the country then do not get cross any of the creeks between Hanmer Springs and Island Saddle. There are bridge options for all of the creek crossings. Some of them are upstream of the fords by 100 metres or so. This is to try and prevent didymo from being taken over to the Wairau catchment.

Not good.

Cheers R

cooneyr

12th November 2007, 06:38

Did some route checking on Sat. Went Chch to Flora Saddle (Mt Arthur Car Park) and back. Only 950kms in 15ish hours (lots of seal though). I recon closer to 20 hours for the ride at a similar pace. Got a few revisions to the roll charts to sort out.

Lets hope the Sherry River Road is passable by January, cause there was no way round this pile up.

Cheers R

mattsdakar

12th November 2007, 19:35

Would that be young Carl in the background?

cooneyr

12th November 2007, 19:40

Would that be young Carl in the background?

Yep TA was the new roll chart test bunny. New layout for the roll charts this year. Kinda hard to test the roll charts when you know the route so well.

Cheers R

Zukin

14th November 2007, 19:30

Hi R

How are the plans coming along for this?
I need to book my leave in for it :)

Where is everyone else staying in Nelson?
Do we have a friendly pub/lodge where everyone is staying on Friday night, I doubt we will need Sat Night as we will (hopefully) still be riding :clap:

Cheers Scott

Transalper

14th November 2007, 20:59

By all means book your leave, surprised you haven't already.
Personally I'm staying with friends in Nelson.

Zukin

14th November 2007, 21:28

As for the route, is that staying the same? With just a few alterations to the Roll sheers?

Are you going to do Porika in the dark this time, comments in the last DB was that you may not?
I am just thinking of adding some extra lights

Cheers

Transalper

14th November 2007, 21:49

The route is the same, we are just tiding up some of the instructions to minimize people getting lost and cooneyr is doing the whole lot including tweaks with some route sheet/road book software instead of manually.
We have found that some actual real life signposted road names do not correspond with the names on the maps used to draw the original route sheets so we are trying to write the actual signposted names where we can, and some of the distances are further out than others.
We'd like to think we get over the Porika both directions before dark sets in but by Mt Arthur it'd be dark..
What ever happens you can expect to ride some of the route in the dark, you'd have to go at crazy speeds to get back to nelson in daylight. (in my opinion)

Zukin

14th November 2007, 22:06

cooneyr

15th November 2007, 07:44

Sorry guys I've been otherwise occupied over the last couple of nights so haven't been on KB. Like TA said no change to route just improvements to the roll charts to make them more consistent with the real world rather than maps. Study the maps really well though, cause to make the roll charts "complete" would require probably twice as big a roll chart (wouldn't fit in the holder). You need to have an understanding of the intent of the route before hand and just use the roll charts for the major turns.

It is defiantly going to happen on the 5/1/08 so sort your leave etc etc if your keen. As for accommodation my inlaws are from NN so I be staying there. I think most of the rest of us know somebody to stay with up there as well. Cant help much on the pub/accom sorry.

We will defiantly get one way over the Porika in the light (assuming no punctures) but no so sure about the other direction. As for extra lights the Porika wont be that much of a problem as it is a relatively slow track (didn't do much above 50 last Sat). The high speed gravel roads are where extra light is good cause you cant see the corners very well i.e. no edge marker posts etc. If your going to do extra lights I'd go for long dist spots rather than floods.

I might go and check the Sherry River road is open i.e. no trees down etc before the day so if your down early enough i.e. 3rd or 4th, I'll take you round the bit that will almost certainly be done in the dark.

Cheers R

NordieBoy

15th November 2007, 16:36

I'll take you round the bit that will almost certainly be done in the dark.

Unless they're with me on the 2-dayer, then it'll be nice bright sunshine :D

Transalper

15th November 2007, 16:56

Unless they're with me on the 2-dayer, then it'll be nice bright sunshine :DAre you working on a plan of your own then? Care to share?

NordieBoy

15th November 2007, 17:38

There's been some interest in a 2-day version for those afraid of the dark.
I'd mentioned I'd be up for it and have had some PM's to the same effect.

My idea is to start from Nelson at the same time and stop off at St Arnaud (probably around 7pm - There's a pub there :D) and off again at 6-7am or so the next day.

Anyone that has problems on the main run will be able to drop back and join us if for any reason (mechanical/physical) they can't finish it off in one go.
Also the confidence that at least for the first half there'll be people coming through only a couple of hours later if they get into trouble.

Also means that if a 2-dayer feels good/better than they thought they have the option of just continuing on for the 2nd half.

If the 2-dayers all pike out before the event then I'll do the full version but would feel much better on my first time through the Porika/Maruia/Braeburn/Dry Weather road etc in light (and I want to get more photos).

Zukin

15th November 2007, 18:14

There's been some interest in a 2-day version for those afraid of the dark.
I'd mentioned I'd be up for it and have had some PM's to the same effect.

My idea is to start from Nelson at the same time and stop off at St Arnaud (probably around 7pm - There's a pub there :D) and off again at 6-7am or so the next day.

Anyone that has problems on the main run will be able to drop back and join us if for any reason (mechanical/physical) they can't finish it off in one go.
Also the confidence that at least for the first half there'll be people coming through only a couple of hours later if they get into trouble.

Also means that if a 2-dayer feels good/better than they thought they have the option of just continuing on for the 2nd half.

A great idea :2thumbsup

If the 2-dayers all pike out before the event then I'll do the full version but would feel much better on my first time through the Porika/Maruia/Braeburn/Dry Weather road etc in light (and I want to get more photos).

This is why I am a bit cagey on Porika, brings back too many bad memories :weep:
But then again, it might be just what I need :blink:

Porika is an easy track, that I would have no problems on, just that memory!

I had been over there hundreds of times, but I caught out just once :mad:
Lots of broken bits on me, and it wasn't even my fault :mad:

A story for later :2thumbsup

far queue

15th November 2007, 21:03

There's been some interest in a 2-day version for those afraid of the dark.
I'd mentioned I'd be up for it and have had some PM's to the same effect.I'm still keen on the 2 day, but hadn't seen any further mention of it so thought there was no other interest. Not scared of the dark, but would rather spread it over 2 days for more enjoyment.

My idea is to start from Nelson at the same time and stop off at St Arnaud (probably around 7pm - There's a pub there :D) and off again at 6-7am or so the next day.Sounds good.

Transalper

15th November 2007, 22:56

I'll be riding home by Sunday afternoon, got work on Monday.

cooneyr

16th November 2007, 06:19

......This is why I am a bit cagey on Porika, brings back too many bad memories :weep:
But then again, it might be just what I need :blink:

Porika is an easy track, that I would have no problems on, just that memory!

I had been over there hundreds of times, but I caught out just once :mad:
Lots of broken bits on me, and it wasn't even my fault :mad:

A story for later :2thumbsup

Heres me foolishly thinking you had not done it before ASSUME = ASS of U and Me. Doh!

Cheers R

Zukin

16th November 2007, 07:14

Heres me foolishly thinking you had not done it before ASSUME = ASS of U and Me. Doh!

Cheers R

:laugh:
Its ok, for a Northerner I have been through that part of the world a lot :)
There are a few new places that I haven't been (Taylors Pass and around Nelson) but rest I know very well :2thumbsup

Cheers Scott

upshift

16th November 2007, 09:17

I'm still keen on the 2 day, but hadn't seen any further mention of it so thought there was no other interest. Not scared of the dark, but would rather spread it over 2 days for more enjoyment.

Sounds good.

Hi all, I have been lurking on this thread for a while now so time to speak up.
Yep, very keen on the two day version, all new territory to me which I'm keen as to find out about.

warewolf

16th November 2007, 09:46

Where is everyone else staying in Nelson?
Do we have a friendly pub/lodge where everyone is staying on Friday night, I doubt we will need Sat Night as we will (hopefully) still be riding :clap:My plans are not 100% firm at this stage, but I have room for a few bods and bikes to stay at our place. Another option would be to put the word out to other KBers in Nelson who could billet fellow riders. Shouldn't need to resort to commercial accommodation! :niceone:

magicfairy

16th November 2007, 10:35

Another option would be to put the word out to other KBers in Nelson who could billet fellow riders. Shouldn't need to resort to commercial accommodation! :niceone:

Good idea! BusaJim and I are staying with friends in Nelson, so can't help out there sorry. When I lived there, Nelsons population doubled between Christmas and New Year. So if you need to book something, get in quick.

NordieBoy

16th November 2007, 11:55

Friday night we would have a double bed, a single and a couple of mattresses available.
As well as tools, compressor and large carport.
Less than 2km from the start too.

Just need to find out about accomodation in St Arnaud Sat night.

Zukin

16th November 2007, 16:09

Ok I have got leave off work :niceone:

And booked the ferry across :niceone:
I come over on the 3rd and back on the 7th

Now I just have to get the bike into order, and then iron out any bugs with it

See ya then

Scott

magicfairy

16th November 2007, 16:16

Which ferry? We are on midday Bluebridge.
Back on 11th

Ok I have got leave off work :niceone:

And booked the ferry across :niceone:
I come over on the 3rd and back on the 7th

Scott

Zukin

16th November 2007, 16:19

Which ferry? We are on midday Bluebridge.
Back on 11th

Bugger:confused:

I am on the Interislander, 10.30am sailing
I will wait on the other side :bleh:

magicfairy

16th November 2007, 16:28

Transalper is on your one. He is heading back to SI after a holiday in NI that day.

Transalper

16th November 2007, 16:47

Transalper is on your one. ....
Yeeha, and we'll actually be with other friends in Hastings or Waimarama Beach on New Years eve.

Zukin

16th November 2007, 17:18

Yeeha, and we'll actually be with other friends in Hastings or Waimarama Beach on New Years eve.

Haha

Are you on the bike or in your car?
Make sure you bring your sunscreen, I will order the weather for ya :clap:

Transalper

16th November 2007, 18:15

J and I will be on our bikes. My daughter lives in Hastings, we're spending a few earlier nights in Rotorua too.

Zukin

16th November 2007, 18:18

Well if you feel like a blast through some of H Bay's finest gravel roads, let me know :yes:

When are you heading down to Welly to catch the Ferry? I may leave on Tuesday afternoon and get as far as Masterton, and stay the night there
Not sure yet

Cheers

Transalper

16th November 2007, 18:44

I'll pm ya to continue this conversation.

Zukin

16th November 2007, 19:53

Hi all

Is the Shell at the South End of town the only fuel stop in Hanmer now?

cooneyr

16th November 2007, 19:57

Hi all

Is the Shell at the South End of town the only fuel stop in Hanmer now?

Caltex and yes.

Cheers R

Zukin

16th November 2007, 20:00

Thanks for that, after all the years going through there I always thought it was a Shell :lol:

There used to be a Caltex in the middle of town a few years back

Cheers

Aslan

16th November 2007, 21:22

hi all - just looked at this thread after Zukin aka Scott posted on BMWOR. I'd be interested in doing the two day version - have done Rainbow, Molesworth several times and the Maruia Saddle once. Would be apprehensive about the dirt sections on the eleven fiddy GS which is what I would use - I'm not as confident or competent as BusaJim. Need some encouragement from others. Will firm up plans in the next little while and decide one way or another. :scooter:

warewolf

16th November 2007, 21:22

There used to be a Caltex in the middle of town a few years backMobil and yes.

:laugh:

Balrog

16th November 2007, 21:22

Bugger:confused:

I am on the Interislander, 10.30am sailing
I will wait on the other side :bleh:

Sounds good :) pm sent

warewolf

16th November 2007, 21:27

Would be apprehensive about the dirt sections on the eleven fiddy GS which is what I would use - I'm not as confident or competent as BusaJim. Need some encouragement from others. The roughest bits are the Maungatapu and Porika Tracks, which are 4wd tracks not gravel roads. Both of those take longer than going around the long way on the tar, so you could quite comfortably bypass them without getting too far away from the group - particularly doing it as the 2-day.

Maungatapu is a lot more chopped out at the moment than it was 12 months ago.

But you'd probably do both in the dry in the daylight quite OK.

Aslan

16th November 2007, 21:34

The roughest bits are the Maungatapu and Porika Tracks, which are 4wd tracks not gravel roads. Both of those take longer than going around the long way on the tar, so you could quite comfortably bypass them without getting too far away from the group - particularly doing it as the 2-day.

Maungatapu is a lot more chopped out at the moment than it was 12 months ago.

But you'd probably do both in the dry in the daylight quite OK.

Cheers for that Colin - certainly tempted - Rainbow and Molesworth are my default options - so I could easily be tempted to tackle this. Would plan on running TCK80's and decide on Maungatapu and Porika Tracks based on weather nearer the time. Stephen O aka Aslan

Zukin

16th November 2007, 22:02

Cheers for that Colin - certainly tempted - Rainbow and Molesworth are my default options - so I could easily be tempted to tackle this. Would plan on running TCK80's and decide on Maungatapu and Porika Tracks based on weather nearer the time. Stephen O aka Aslan

Hi S

Sound good, I will be on the GS too with TCK80's, I might lower the gearing a bit, as you know they aren't the lowest gearing :pinch:
If the weather is bad, I will bypass these sections too, but only as a last resort

We used to class Porika as an all weather track, but with some loose rocks on the Hairpin corners it can catch the unweary rider out, (as I found out the hard way)

It would be good to have you along :)

Zukin

17th November 2007, 09:20

Mobil and yes.

:laugh:
:crazy:

I am sure it was a Caltex (opposite the Scenic Circle Hotel), because I did a few tours for farmers through Rainbow/Molesworth, and they gave me a Fuelcard that I could use at BP or Caltex (maybe if it was a Mobil they accepted it) :blink:

marks

17th November 2007, 12:09

Will firm up plans in the next little while and decide one way or another. :scooter:

if an old bugger decides to go does an old bugger want some company?

Aslan

17th November 2007, 12:47

if an old bugger decides to go does an old bugger want some company?

hi Mark - would be great to have your company - PM yr phone number and maybe we chat and see whether we can agree travel dates that would work for us both - prior to realising this rdie was on a had thoughts of riding the 'dunstan trails'.

All - anyone else reading this keen to go on down to Central Otago after this ride?

Cheers Aslan

Zukin

17th November 2007, 12:57

hi Mark - would be great to have your company - PM yr phone number and maybe we chat and see whether we can agree travel dates that would work for us both - prior to realising this rdie was on a had thoughts of riding the 'dunstan trails'.

All - anyone else reading this keen to go on down to Central Otago after this ride?

Cheers Aslan

I maybe tempted

Make the most of those trails as I believe there will be a wind farm down that way soon, so that will kill it

Cheers Scott

warewolf

17th November 2007, 19:38

I am sure it was a Caltexarrr, you may well be right, I've written it down as a Mobil but sometimes that's from memory as the company name on the gst receipt doesn't necessarily say the name of the oil company franchise.

marks

19th November 2007, 07:25

Perhaps I missed this info...

What is the maximum distance between fuel stops?

young1

19th November 2007, 07:42

Aslan

19th November 2007, 07:42

Sounds good :D

How many would be in for a Dusty Butt 1000 - Daylighter?
Run in parallel starting at the same place/time but overnighting at St Arnaud and doing the 2nd half in daylight on the 6th?

Gives people who try the 24hr run a chance to finish if they have problems on the first day and may get more riders along as well as effectivly tail-end-charlie'ing the 24hr ride.

Either way, I'm in :woohoo:

Hi Nordie Boy and others watching this thread - I'm planning to do this ride - the two day that is. I'm apprehensive about my 1150 and breaking me on the gnarlier 4WD tracks - sooooooo if I can sort out the luggage and fuel carrying challenges of my little DR350 this is prolly the machine I'll bring. cheers Aslan - look fwd to meeting the Southern Men and riding with North Island pals again. :scooter:

cooneyr

19th November 2007, 07:43

Perhaps I missed this info...

What is the maximum distance between fuel stops?

Max is about 236km and min is about 176kms. The 236 is Blenhiem to Hanmer through the Molesworth with the Black Birch side trip. My calc sheet is the last attachment here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=938284&postcount=63) (cant put it up twice). I need to update it with new ride times (some fairly big changes to times) and make very minor adjustments to distances from checking we have done but it is rough enough. Overall travel time I would now put at about 20 hours at around 100kph on seal, reasonable speeds on gravel/gravel and alternately 5 mins or 15 mins every hour i.e. 10 mins average.

Cheers R

cooneyr

19th November 2007, 07:47

Hi Nordie Boy and others watching this thread - I'm planning to do this ride - the two day that is. I'm apprehensive about my 1150 and breaking me on the gnarlier 4WD tracks - sooooooo if I can sort out the luggage and fuel carrying challenges of my little DR350 this is prolly the machine I'll bring. cheers Aslan - look fwd to meeting the Southern Men and riding with North Island pals again. :scooter:

You probably know that BusaJim did it on his 1150 last year (he came back down to finish it off at easter as well). He didnt have any issues I know of but may be worth getting in touch with him. The only sections that I could see of any real concern are the Mangatapu, Black Birch (BusaJim's puncture) and Porika. Info on fuel range required in post just put up.

Cheers R

cooneyr

19th November 2007, 08:03

Can those who are interested in the DB1k 08 please sign up to the calender events. The thread is getting a little trick to figure out who is doing what so this is meant to be a clearer way of keeping track. Even if you are non committal at this stage put your name up and see if there is somebody you can/want to ride with. Please remove your name around Xmas if you decide you non longer wish to give it ago.

There is two separate calender events, one for the 1 day event and one for the 2 day event. Both can be found here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&c=6&day=2008-1-5) - choose the right one (or is that two) :D

Cheers R

Balrog

19th November 2007, 12:23

...- sooooooo if I can sort out the luggage and fuel carrying challenges of my little DR350 this is prolly the machine I'll bring. ...

You probably know that BusaJim did it on his 1150 last year (he came back down to finish it off at easter as well). He didnt have any issues I know of but may be worth getting in touch with him. The only sections that I could see of any real concern are the Mangatapu, Black Birch (BusaJim's puncture) and Porika. Info on fuel range required in post just put up.

Cheers R

Hey Aslan, great to hear you're coming along :)

For me the trickest part of the ride was the Nelson side of the Mangatapu.
If you get a good run up you're fine, if you stop on the steep bits it can be hard to get the
big GS moving again, as you tend to spin the rear up and dig a hole.

I found the Porika steep, but not as difficult as getting up the Mangatapu
as it wasn't as bumpy ( or dark ).

If you're happy taking the GS up the Pram track ( both ways ) then you should be ok.

Cheers Jim

P.S confession
I have fallen off both times going over the Mangatapu.
1st time was going up with Marie on the back, lost traction going up and bounced off course, then bounced off bike.
2nd time was just a silly mistake. I couldn't work out which side of the bridge I wanted to fall off ( again with Marie on the back ).
( BTW Marie won't pillion over the Mangatapu with me any more :( )

cooneyr

19th November 2007, 12:35

....2nd time was just a silly mistake. I couldn't work out which side of the bridge I wanted to fall off ( again with Marie on the back ).
( BTW Marie won't pillion over the Mangatapu with me any more :( )

Dont blame her :crazy: the drop of the bridge would not have been fun!

Cheers R

marks

19th November 2007, 13:35

Max is about 236km and min is about 176kms.
Cheers R

Thanks for that - I'll have to carry a fair bit of extra to get 236km but its doable...

Zukin

19th November 2007, 13:49

Hi Nordie Boy and others watching this thread - I'm planning to do this ride - the two day that is. I'm apprehensive about my 1150 and breaking me on the gnarlier 4WD tracks - sooooooo if I can sort out the luggage and fuel carrying challenges of my little DR350 this is prolly the machine I'll bring. cheers Aslan - look fwd to meeting the Southern Men and riding with North Island pals again. :scooter:

Hi Aslan

My recommendation would be take the GS, the reason is that the gnarlier 4wd tracks you refer too can be bypassed easily enough :niceone:
The majority of the roads are ok

This is what I plan to do if weather (or me) isn't up to it on my GS.
I went and found some "interesting tracks" on the weekend, and my GS struggled (I think it was the rider and not the machine :bleh:, but I am thinking of dropping the front sprocket a size, as it seems to want to stall on the steeper stuff)
Its not worth the risk to either man or machine at the end of the day :oi-grr:

So I will see how it goes on the day
Cheers Scott

Balrog

19th November 2007, 13:58

Dont blame her :crazy: the drop of the bridge would not have been fun!

Cheers R

lol

No not blaming Marie, definitely pilot error both times

:)

Aslan

19th November 2007, 14:07

Hi Aslan

My recommendation would be take the GS, the reason is that the gnarlier 4wd tracks you refer too can be bypassed easily enough :niceone:
The majority of the roads are ok

This is what I plan to do if weather (or me) isn't up to it on my GS.
I went and found some "interesting tracks" on the weekend, and my GS struggled (I think it was the rider and not the machine :bleh:, but I am thinking of dropping the front sprocket a size, as it seems to want to stall on the steeper stuff)
Its not worth the risk to either man or machine at the end of the day :oi-grr:

So I will see how it goes on the day
Cheers Scott

Cheers for your comments Scott and BusaJim also - Jim - your comment about confident to ride the big GS across the Pram in both directions is a really helpful gauge. I've ridden only the Upper Hutt to Paraparaumu direction on the 1150 and both ways when I had a Dakar. For this ride I'll prolly skip the gnarly bits in the event I decide to bring the GS - as we know I'm not as fearless or competent as BusaJim plus at 60 I give him twenty years! :scooter:

cooneyr

19th November 2007, 14:13

........ but I am thinking of dropping the front sprocket a size, as it seems to want to stall on the steeper stuff)........

I'm pretty sure Plug has done this - 16 to 15 from memory??? Might be worth it for the DB just so you feel more in control.

Cheers R

Aslan

19th November 2007, 14:13

Steve what dates are you talking about?

Mike and others watching this thread - Mike in the event I go across earlier it would prolly be after 28/12 and I'd plan to return across the Strait on 6 or 7/1/08

My interest in going further South would be in doing the trails around Alexandra - I think CooneyR has indicated elsewhere on this site that the 'dunstan trail' is a favourite of his. Apologies in advance Ryan if I've got the name of the trail wrong.

Anyway I was envisgaing using the big GS if I/we go further South before the Dusty Butt 08.

Cheers S

Zukin

19th November 2007, 14:43

I'm pretty sure Plug has done this - 16 to 15 from memory??? Might be worth it for the DB just so you feel more in control.

Cheers R

You'd be right on the sizing, very good memory :laugh:
Bling to you
I am impressed

Transalper

19th November 2007, 14:52

Only bits of the DB I consider knarly would be some of the Mangatapu, not so bad now I have my head around it, I prefer going over it from the Nelson side.
Also the Porika. I have my issues with that one more so climbing from the Lake Rotoroa side and find it worse than the Mangatapu. Once again that may be because I've gotten to know the Mangatapu a little better now. Funny that I prefer to climb the difficult bits of the Mangatapu and descend the difficult bits of the Porika.

Lugzy23

19th November 2007, 16:33

NordieBoy

19th November 2007, 16:59

You'd be right on the sizing, very good memory :laugh:
Bling to you
I am impressed

It's just his own sprocket sizings he's a bit hazy on :D

Transalper

19th November 2007, 17:51

Hey transalper, how would the more difficult parts of the DB compare to the likes of top of worsleys, have you got anything to compare it against for me. Ive never been over the Magatapu, even though i lived in Marlborough for the greater proportion of my life, ta

Not like Worsleys Rd. or vaguely like the last 100m at the top in places. Have to think about that a bit more but think we'd be looking at more like a pylon road around Hanmer way or somethink. Some bits remind me a little bit of that photo of H.O.Ts BMWR100 being picked up (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=1301991&postcount=126) mid corner in the CCC ride, but then ones imagination can run away on one a bit from time to time, there might be too many loose stones in that photo.. Next trip over I'll probably find it hard to see why I had problems before.
On the porika last trip i just caught a few bigger stones/rocks on a couple of uphill hairpins and the front bounced up taking me off my intended line and unbalanced me for a moment or two. Rider error. The bike was taking me instead of me taking the bike on that bend. Didn't help that I still had my usual road pressures in my tyres where I would normally drop to about 20 to 21 in the front which really helps tone down those rocky deflections.
Actually I have unedited video of both climbs.. Mangatapu Nelson side and Porika lake side.

Lugzy, I seen you ride, there's nothing to concern you and your KLR there any worse than it concerns me. I find them two areas hardish work but not bad enough to have second thoughts on the DR, heck I'd be ok on the Transalp.

cooneyr

19th November 2007, 18:59

Lugzy23

19th November 2007, 19:47

Yeah thanks for the info guys, I hope its not like to pylon track im thinking of transalper cause even the TF battles to get up that. Were you speaking of the actual Jollies Pass road?

Transalper

19th November 2007, 19:51

no, just a generalisation, no particular one. Maybe a mix of all of them. Nothing like that track we got stuck on on the way to the snow.

Skinny_Birdman

23rd November 2007, 14:10

Yeah thanks for the info guys, I hope its not like to pylon track im thinking of transalper cause even the TF battles to get up that. Were you speaking of the actual Jollies Pass road?

The TT STORMED up it though, eh? :beer: Are you keen for the main event or would you be interested in the two dayer that Nordie and I are doing?

cooneyr

23rd November 2007, 14:32

The TT STORMED up it though, eh? :beer: Are you keen for the main event or would you be interested in the two dayer that Nordie and I are doing?

I knew the calender (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2008-1-5&c=0) would come in handy. Lugzys up for the 2 dayer.

Cheers R

Zukin

23rd November 2007, 14:48

Well I am slowly getting the ole GS up to spec to handle the 1000km of gravel in just 6 weeks time :eek:

I have just fitted some new footpegs, for those of you that know the factory ones are crap, and you cant stand on them for long, and when its rough or wet and slippery, once often looses their footing off the damn thing :pinch:
Here is a link (http://www.pivotpegz.net/) to the ones I got, they are expensive but not that I have used them both on the road and offroad (down the river) they are very good :niceone:
So much better to stand on and also better when riding on the road

I have also got a 15 tooth sprocket to change the gearing a little, I hope this helps on the steeping ascents and descents :niceone:

I am just getting some light mounts made to fit my aux lights, so we can see in the dark.

In a few weeks, we start changing all the fluids
Brake, coolant, oil, forks etc and I am having the shims checked as its just done over 40k
Then the new tyres go on as close to Jan 1 as possible :niceone:

How is your preperations coming along

The other thing is I hope its not as hot then, as it is here now, 27- 30 deg :pinch:

cooneyr

23rd November 2007, 15:08

.........The other thing is I hope its not as hot then, as it is here now, 27- 30 deg :pinch:

You gotta be joking - we went through the Molesworth on the 11th march this year and some guy had a thermo in his car that was reading 40ish degrees at about 2pm. The Molesworth and Rainbow friggen roast at between Jan and April. :wacko: There is no way I could go through there during summer with a jacket less breathable than a Dririder Rallycross.

......How is your preperations coming along.......

Oil change done, new rear wheel bearings, new chain and sprockets, IMS 18l fuel tank, checked rear suspension pivot bearings, new fork seals going in next week. Just have to chuck a new set of tyres on when i get to NN (hopefully the current ones will last that long). Bit of that for longer term than the DB obviously :D

Cheers R

Lugzy23

23rd November 2007, 16:05

Na im going to do the two day event. Birdman I will catch up with you at some stage about doing the ride together if thats ok with you- are you going on your TT?

NordieBoy

24th November 2007, 22:10

Nooooooooo!!!!!11!!!!one

They're straightening out the Dovedale side of Jacobs Ladder!

<img src=http://www.photostorage.nelson.geek.nz/sports/motorsport/mybikes/Trips/slides/20071124-150852-000002.jpg>

cooneyr

25th November 2007, 09:15

Nooooooooo!!!!!11!!!!one

They're straightening out the Dovedale side of Jacobs Ladder!

Doesn't look like it is going to be dead straight. Looks like they are just cutting the corners back a bit. Quite likely they are doing it so logging trucks can get through easier and the area may be logged in the near future (from memory the forest is mature enough) so keep the eyes open when going through from now on.

Will never be the same but could be worse.

Cheers R

NordieBoy

25th November 2007, 11:14

Yep, they're 2-laneing it a bit.
Worse?
For us?

cooneyr

25th November 2007, 20:27

Yep, they're 2-laneing it a bit.
Worse?
For us?

Dead straight seal is worse!

Cheers R

Skinny_Birdman

26th November 2007, 07:31

Na im going to do the two day event. Birdman I will catch up with you at some stage about doing the ride together if thats ok with you- are you going on your TT?

Hoho surely you jest!! Naw, I'll take the Transalp I think. (Transalper's old one, which I bought a couple of months ago). Took the TT on the CCC loop last weekend, I think I'd be a shoe-in for deep vein thrombosis after a ride up to Nelson on the thing.:spanking:

Lugzy23

26th November 2007, 16:19

Ive seen those lovely pink hemorroid cushions around, you would look the shiz riding round with those.

Skinny_Birdman

27th November 2007, 07:22

Ive seen those lovely pink hemorroid cushions around, you would look the shiz riding round with those.

You've seen my cushion then :doh:.... It played a starring role in the Ulysses 1000km run a few weeks ago.

cooneyr

28th November 2007, 08:33

The updated and reviewed roll charts for the route are attached as a PDF file. If you don't have adobe reader to open and print this file get it from here (http://www.adobe.com/products/reader/). Try opening the file first though as most will have adobe reader on their computers.

Print the file double sided or print half the pages then put the pages back in the printer the other way round (need to figure out what way round they were originally first!). This is because I can only create the PDF with one column per page and it is a wast of paper to print one column per page when two will fit.

Lastly - we are think that a meal for all DB participants on the evening of Friday the 4th would be a good idea. At this stage the restaurant is Lambrettas in Nelson. if you have any other good suggestions then let me know. If you are keen please put your name on calender event that can be found here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2008-1-4&c=0).

Cheers R

NordieBoy

28th November 2007, 08:36

cooneyr

28th November 2007, 08:41

For those wanting to take a GPS along I've created a GPX route file of the DB track and will correlate the waypoint names with the rollchart box numbers when R puts the final version through.

The only bit that's got me stumped is the actual entrance to the Porika Track as I've never seen it in real life and it's a bit ambiguous on Google Earth...

Final version of roll chart up ^.

I'll send you an email with the kmz files for either end of the Porika if GE is high res.

Cheers R

NordieBoy

28th November 2007, 08:44

Doh!

Shouldn't you be at work R?

cooneyr

28th November 2007, 08:47

Doh!

Shouldn't you be at work R?

:shutup: you.

The IT guy is a KBer as well hehehe

Suppose to be writing a tender document for a contract. Better get on with it as has to be done today :whistle:

Cheers R

NordieBoy

28th November 2007, 09:09

:shutup: you.

The IT guy is a KBer as well hehehe

Suppose to be writing a tender document for a contract. Better get on with it as has to be done today :whistle:

Cheers R

I'd better head out for a ride now too.
I mean, fix some computers.

:spanking:

Zukin

28th November 2007, 16:52

The only bit that's got me stumped is the actual entrance to the Porika Track as I've never seen it in real life and it's a bit ambiguous on Google Earth...

Here ya go
Is this what you were looking for?? :2thumbsup

If you want them as a .gpx file then send me an email and I will reply with the attachment
I cant attach it to KB sorry

Cheers

warewolf

28th November 2007, 17:15

The only bit that's got me stumped is the actual entrance to the Porika Track as I've never seen it in real life and it's a bit ambiguous on Google Earth...Eastern end? This is it. You get very little warning it is there, a fork up to the right. To the left is another fork that takes you down to a ford, the road uses a bridge.

Dunno what the 'Porika Road' on Google Earth is all about?? Wonder if the paper/actual roads have been moving around?

cooneyr

28th November 2007, 17:21

Eastern end? This is it. You get very little warning it is there, a fork up to the right. To the left is another fork that takes you down to a ford, the road uses a bridge.

Dunno what the 'Porika Road' on Google Earth is all about?? Wonder if the paper/actual roads have been moving around?

Its not that hard to find. If you are looking for an intersection (using the kms on the roll chart) it is pretty obvious.

I agree about the GE centre lines. Both the Howard and the Porika centre lines are in rather strange places.

Cheers R

warewolf

28th November 2007, 17:49

Its not that hard to find. If you are looking for an intersection (using the kms on the roll chart) it is pretty obvious.Didn't say it was hard to find, said you get little warning... never tried it with the roll chart! :laugh: Sight lines lead you around the curve to the left, by the time you spot the detail to the right it's a little too late to stop. At least, that's the way it's always been for me, even though I've been looking for it, I think because I get distracted by the track to the ford on the left before I look to the right.

alfonz

28th November 2007, 23:01

i have been up it before and missed it as i miss lots of things but at night and if you are getting tired as i was its easy to do :Oops:

NordieBoy

29th November 2007, 06:52

I think because I get distracted by the track to the ford on the left before I look to the right.

There you go again, always thinking about washing your bike :shutup:

NordieBoy

29th November 2007, 06:54

I've done the GPX of the DB route.
If anyone wants a copy to have a play with/check accuracy, I can post it up.
Can also put up a KMZ version for the GE'ers amongst us.

cooneyr

29th November 2007, 07:09

There you go again, always thinking about washing your bike :shutup:

:rofl:

I've done the GPX of the DB route.
If anyone wants a copy to have a play with/check accuracy, I can post it up.
Can also put up a KMZ version for the GE'ers amongst us.

Is that a polite way of asking for somebody to check it? Put the KMZ file up and I'll have a look at it if you want.

Cheers R

NordieBoy

29th November 2007, 08:16

Damn things too big to attach (8kb)

Get it HERE (http://www.photostorage.nelson.geek.nz/files/db1k 2008.kmz).

cooneyr

29th November 2007, 10:56

Damn things too big to attach (8kb)

Get it HERE (http://www.photostorage.nelson.geek.nz/files/db1k 2008.kmz).

Looks pretty good. You probably have the email about the location of the southern most point on the Palmer Road by now.

Kinda interesting comparing the the crow flies direction with the actual direction for some of the legs. I dont have a gps and wont be using the data but is it worth putting some intermediate points in (with no reference to the roll chart). Would stop things like the next way point being south east from Plerous when you need to travel east north east. Your call.

Cheers R

NordieBoy

29th November 2007, 15:31

The GPS warns you when a corner (waypoint pair) or checkpoint (waypoint single) is coming up.
You ignore it in the meantime.

JATZ

29th November 2007, 20:09

For those wanting to take a GPS along I've created a GPX route file of the DB track and will correlate the waypoint names with the rollchart box numbers when R puts the final version through.

The only bit that's got me stumped is the actual entrance to the Porika Track as I've never seen it in real life and it's a bit ambiguous on Google Earth...
Easy to find it Nordie, past the lake, past the houses, over a small hump, through a small creek and up the hill, or hang a left into howard vly coming from st arnaud and go right before the ford. I think thats how it goes, might have to check it out this w/end

cooneyr

29th November 2007, 20:15

Easy to find it Nordie, past the lake, past the houses, over a small hump, through a small creek and up the hill, or hang a left into howard vly coming from st arnaud and go right before the ford. I think thats how it goes, might have to check it out this w/end

Feel free to got check it out :D but we have it pretty we ll sorted. Nordie was just trying to figure out the coordinates for the ends of the track as he is putting together a GPS track of the DB route.

Cheers R

JATZ

29th November 2007, 20:23

Feel free to got check it out :D but we have it pretty we ll sorted. Nordie was just trying to figure out the coordinates for the ends of the track as he is putting together a GPS track of the DB route.

Cheers R
I'm told the porika's got a bit rough by a guy who does a bit of gold panning up there, mind you he drives an old ambulance, did the maungatapu about a month ago and it's got a bit lumpy up the top

NordieBoy

29th November 2007, 21:38

Some guys from Nelson did the Porika last Saturday and it seemed fine.
Some of the claybits on the Maungatapu are a bit dug up by the 4x4's but no biggies.

cooneyr

29th November 2007, 21:44

I'm told the porika's got a bit rough by a guy who does a bit of gold panning up there, mind you he drives an old ambulance, did the maungatapu about a month ago and it's got a bit lumpy up the top

Depends on your perspective :D We went through a about three Saturdays ago and it was in fairly "normal" condition for bikes. Couple of branches down that would get in the way of vehicles but nothing major.

Cheers R

Balrog

30th November 2007, 09:52

cooneyr

30th November 2007, 10:18

I took the GS with all the panniers on over the Mangatapu yesterday.
It did seem a bit rougher than it was at the beginning of the year.
Didn't crash this time, but did end up stalling going up one of the steepest bits,
luckily I was almost at the top and was able to get going again.

For the Wellington guys, I'd say the track is harder than the west side of the param track now,
There's more ruts you have to ride over while going up the steep bits.
Requires you to be committed and just go for it.

I think I'll be doing a run over it the day before, so I can try and work out the
best lines for when its all dark

Jim.

Maybe we should have a run over the Mangatapu before the meal on the 4th? We could meet at the DB start point (car park) around 3 do a run to the pass and back, then head back to Lambretta's for the meal (or head home for a sleep if you are that way inclined).

Not many people have put their name on the calender event (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2008-1-4&c=0) for the meal yet.

Cheers R

Transalper

30th November 2007, 12:17

If we depart at 5:30am again it will be 3/4 light on the Mangatapu this time.

magicfairy

30th November 2007, 13:08

[Not many people have put their name on the Cheers R[/QUOTE]

Can I come to the dinner ?
I dont plan to do the DB but am planning to meet up at a couple of strategic spots, e.g. St Arnaud, Hamner Murchison (depending on the logistics) on my road bike to give encouragment, maybe take some movies / pics of you guys arriving at those stages.
A not so Dusty Butt ride.
Also I could act as a messenger, passing on info to the guys coming behind if needed. And a bit of first Aid, handing out pain killers, antihistamines.
Marie

cooneyr

30th November 2007, 13:15

Can I come to the dinner ?
I dont plan to do the DB but am planning to meet up at a couple of strategic spots, e.g. St Arnaud, Hamner Murchison (depending on the logistics) on my road bike to give encouragment, maybe take some movies / pics of you guys arriving at those stages.
A not so Dusty Butt ride.
Also I could act as a messenger, passing on info to the guys coming behind if needed. And a bit of first Aid, handing out pain killers, antihistamines.
Marie

Dont be sill, you don't even need to ask, of course can come. Would have wondered whats up if you weren't there! Partners/supporters are most welcome.

Cheers R

MyGSXF

30th November 2007, 13:23

Hey.. when are you lot looking on getting to Nelson??? :wait: I am looking to do new years at my place again.. :drinknsin had a ball last year!!! :whistle: & of course the Nelson street Racing in on, on the 2nd Jan too!!! :banana:

NordieBoy

2nd December 2007, 18:06

Checked out the Baton Ford with a look to replacing all the seal between Taparewa and West Bank Mot River with gravel and it is possible but I'd only try in daylight and have a couple of helpers per bike.

The rocks make it impossible to ride across and the current is quite strong.
It's only knee deep untill you get to the far bank where it is deeper.
Access isn't a problem as there's proper tracks down to it from each side.

cooneyr

2nd December 2007, 20:35

Lastly - we are think that a meal for all DB participants on the evening of Friday the 4th would be a good idea. At this stage the restaurant is Lambrettas in Nelson. if you have any other good suggestions then let me know. If you are keen please put your name on calender event that can be found here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2008-1-4&c=0).

Cheers R

Meal Update -
Been talking to Warewolf who has kindly offered to host a BBQ at his place for the meal on the 4th Jan. It is BYO everything except for cutlery and plates etc. Send Warewolf a PM to get his address. See you all there around 5:30pm.

Checked out the Baton Ford with a look to replacing all the seal between Taparewa and West Bank Mot River with gravel and it is possible but I'd only try in daylight and have a couple of helpers per bike.

The rocks make it impossible to ride across and the current is quite strong.
It's only knee deep untill you get to the far bank where it is deeper.
Access isn't a problem as there's proper tracks down to it from each side.

Sounds like it might be a bit much for the 1 dayers. If you want to take the 2 dayers through thats your call. Looks like it might be a wee bit tough for attempting at 2am. Thanks for checking it out, maybe you could include it in the "Tasman Dust Buster".

Cheers R

JATZ

3rd December 2007, 19:55

Just out of curiosity, what sort of speeds should I be averaging, say, through the molesworth/rainbow to get to st arnaud by the end of the day, if I was doing the 2 day ride,

cooneyr

3rd December 2007, 20:48

Just out of curiosity, what sort of speeds should I be averaging, say, through the molesworth/rainbow to get to st arnaud by the end of the day, if I was doing the 2 day ride,

Well the speed limit is 50 kph through the Molesworth and Rainbow sooooooo.

This is a kinda hard to answer - you can look at it two ways. It is about 550kms from Nelson to St Arnaud so if you average 50kph over the day you need 10.5 hours total. The other way to look at it is can you keep up with the others when on the good gravel i.e. 100ish on straights? Doing it by yourself is not recommended - see the posts at the beginning of the thread.

Maybe you should organise to go for a ride with Nordieboy or one of the others so you get a feel for how fast we ride? If you are comfortable on gravel then it probably not an issue.

Cheers R

JATZ

3rd December 2007, 20:59

cooneyr

3rd December 2007, 21:03

NordieBoy

4th December 2007, 07:34

Just wondering as I went through the dry weather rd and over the porika on sunday and only managed about 40km/h average, however I'll ditch the road tyres before Jan. As you said Porika wasn't to bad, still managed to come home minus a mirror due to lack of traction :-)

I just cruise on gravel and will be stopping for photos regularly.

If you're confidant enough to get through the Maungatapu and Porika tracks then the rest won't be an issue.

I only learned to ride gravel properly(ish) a month after the Dusty this year.

A nice loop from Mot would be Rosedale Hill, Jacobs Ladder, Baton Valley return, Sunday Creek, Jacobs Ladder, Rosedale Hill and back to Mot. Maybe with Mt Arthur thrown in for good measure.

cooneyr

4th December 2007, 09:19

I've had a request for an outline of the whole route one map so here you go. Not perfect but you get the idea.

Cheers R

XF650

4th December 2007, 10:03

I've had a request for an outline of the whole route one map so here you go. Not perfect but you get the idea.

Cheers R

Thanks Ryan
That map certainly puts the ride into perpective
Can't wait.....

JATZ

4th December 2007, 12:16

I just cruise on gravel and will be stopping for photos regularly.

If you're confidant enough to get through the Maungatapu and Porika tracks then the rest won't be an issue.

I only learned to ride gravel properly(ish) a month after the Dusty this year.

A nice loop from Mot would be Rosedale Hill, Jacobs Ladder, Baton Valley return, Sunday Creek, Jacobs Ladder, Rosedale Hill and back to Mot. Maybe with Mt Arthur thrown in for good measure.
I'll give those ones a go between now and Jan, got about 4 w/ends to get some practice in + canaans only a quick blast away after work.

cooneyr

4th December 2007, 13:08

Just been to sort stickers for the 08 DB1k. The lady in reception like the name for the ride so much she had a sticker from 07 on her filing cabinet (was the only one on it) :D

I'll let you know costs when I get a firm quote.

Cheers R

Balrog

4th December 2007, 16:10

I've had a request for an outline of the whole route one map so here you go. Not perfect but you get the idea.

Cheers R

We doing just the one lap then?

:rofl:

cooneyr

4th December 2007, 18:36

Stickers will be $5 each. Same design as last year (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=946087&postcount=83) with a couple of change i.e. year and colours. Any extra after costs will be donated to the site. I'll have these available at the start of the ride on the 5th.

While on the subject of money - remember that it costs $10 to get through the Rainbow. This is payable at the old homestead about 60km north of Hanmer where you will be asked to fill out a disclaimer form.

Cheers R

PLUG

11th December 2007, 22:39

hope we get some rain in the high country soon ... fire risk is way up & DOC don't like that ... a few years ago Molesworth was never opened for the whole summer ... :no:

magicfairy

12th December 2007, 05:46

hope we get some rain in the high country soon ... fire risk is way up & DOC don't like that ... a few years ago Molesworth was never opened for the whole summer ... :no:

On the stuff website this morning
http://www.stuff.co.nz/4320424a10.html

"The Department of Conservation (DOC) is considering not opening the tourist drive through Molesworth Station this summer because of a high fire risk."

Time to be doing rain dances and praying to the motorcycle gods - failing that - Plan B?

PLUG

12th December 2007, 07:05

failing that - Plan B?

... bolt cutters :rolleyes:

magicfairy

12th December 2007, 07:29

... bolt cutters :rolleyes:

:laugh: So B is for Bolt cutters

cooneyr

12th December 2007, 08:02

Just had a really quick think about a Plan B - Blenheim, Altimarlock (the BusaJim puncture mountain in the north of the Awatere), back to Blenheim, down the Wairau to the northern end of the Rainbow, south through the rainbow to Hanmer and then carry on with original route i.e. north though the rainbow etc etc.

This would make the ride about 100km longer and bring in another 100kms of seal. We could turn around on top of island saddle and maintain the original ride length but drop 100kms of gravel for seal. I want to check the gravel quotient with these routes though, because the aim is for over 50% gravel. Fuel stops work out with this route.

Bugger aye, but thats life.

Cheers R

warewolf

12th December 2007, 09:03

cooneyr

12th December 2007, 09:17

That's probably the best call. If that route is required, then we can shorten the out-and-back loop south of Murch down to Palmers(?) Rd by the same number. Net change to tar/gravel would be minimal.

btw it's raining here in Sunny Nelson™ at the moment, but we'll need quite a bit to make much difference - this will just add fuel to the fire, pardon the pun.

Yep that works too. If we go right through to Hanmer and back then we can probably drop the leg from the intersection of Maruia Saddle Road and SH6 to Springs (Newcombes (down the Palmer Road)) and back. It is about 110kms of which about 50kms is seal.

I think I would prefer to go right through the Rainbow both ways and drop the section south of Maruia Saddle.

Its raining here in Chch too but I suspect we will need a week of rain before things improve though. Was over in Blenheim on last Sat and things are extremely dry.

Cheers R

warewolf

12th December 2007, 09:36

Plug, AFAIK the access to the Flora carpark (Mt Arthur) doesn't close for fire risk. It is an alpine area so doesn't suffer the same conditions as the Molesworth. It gets pretty dry down on the lowlands near the Motueka River, but there's plenty of watercourses and farms so it won't be closed off.

Lugzy23

12th December 2007, 16:53

cooneyr

12th December 2007, 18:05

I realise it could be alot of extra hassle and mean wet boots, but there used to be a crossing opposite the Branch river tailrace accross the Wairau. This could mean we could avoid alot of the seal up the Wairau Valley and ride most of the Northbank road. I have no idea what sort of condition it is in and would depend on river flow at the time. Just offering it as a possible alternative, thoughts on this????

Keen to find out more about this. I've had a look on Google Earth and there are faint tracks across the river and a couple of wide spots that might be a goer. How deep was it when you last did it i.e. ankle, mid calf, knee, waste? Hopefully the rivers will be really low when we on the 5th (reason the molesworth is closed!). Also are the stones are just typical riverbed (i.e. waimak) size? Do we need to get permission to get back onto the highway on the north side?

Also noticed that there is a track running from the end of North Bank Road to the Wash Bridge where the highway crosses back to the north bank. Do you know anything about this/have a contact in the area who might? Plug - what about your Branch contact from Easter Last year?

PM me everything you know :psst: :stoogie:

Cheers R

NordieBoy

12th December 2007, 19:00

Hmmm...
Hey ZeRax this sounds like your riding area.
Any ideas?

mattsdakar

12th December 2007, 19:30

I appreciate most of you are heading up to Nelson early for the street races, but some of us poor sacks have to work so I can only travel north on the 3rd or 4th.
Is there anyone else going up from Christchurch on these days, I'm not that keen on riding up on my tod so would appreciate the company

Cheers Matt

RedKLR650

13th December 2007, 20:16

hope we get some rain in the high country soon ... fire risk is way up & DOC don't like that ... a few years ago Molesworth was never opened for the whole summer ... :no:

Hi all, this won't affect the DB, but down here, the Haka valley and McKenzie is now under total fire ban for the same reason.....

Stu :scooter:

zeRax

13th December 2007, 21:22

hey, could go scout out more of northbank road this weekend, when i go trailriding up northbank i usually go on this other turn off before it goes down so far.

that is if i can see by then, bunch of rust was in my eye out of nowhere, thought it was chemicals, rust scratched my eye up, which would be ok-ish, but ive only really had the one good eye, so everything is blurry at the moment :\,

have some cream i gotta keep putting on it

cooneyr

14th December 2007, 07:10

warewolf

14th December 2007, 12:06

This could mean we could avoid alot of the seal up the Wairau Valley and ride most of the Northbank road. I have no idea what sort of condition it is in and would depend on river flow at the time.I've often looked at it on the map, and discussed it with outdoorsy friends who go tramping & climbing in that area... a big no go is what I tend to hear, in terms of riding all the way through. Heaps of fords that get worse and worse and are seriously dodgy for even well-equipped and experienced 4wders.

But I would like to see just how much we can do!

cooneyr

14th December 2007, 12:27

I've often looked at it on the map, and discussed it with outdoorsy friends who go tramping & climbing in that area... a big no go is what I tend to hear, in terms of riding all the way through. Heaps of fords that get worse and worse and are seriously dodgy for even well-equipped and experienced 4wders.

But I would like to see just how much we can do!

I know maps are one thing and reality another but it would seem that there are a few bridges (as well as fords) on the way to Glengyle and Partriach Stations from SH6 along the North Bank Road. Councils very rarely tend to install bridges on the way to remote places like this and then leave whole road (bridges, fords and road itself) to turn to crap i.e. I would expect Northbank Road to be better than the Porika. From Glengyle and Partriach Stations to the potential Wairau crossing is about 7km with about four or five fords which look like they "should" be easier than crossing the Wairau.

Of course I could have completely missed your point and you are referring to the Wairau Crossing itself????

Definatly keen to investigate this but we should defiantly not commit the DB route to this without checking it out first.

Cheers R

Lugzy23

14th December 2007, 16:50

Last time we were up that way the track up right to the the Goulter River was absoulutely sweet. However it is the route accross the Wairau that I dont know about. The that continues up past the Goulter and comes out by the Wash Bridge is a dead cert to be off limits due to fire risk in the pines. Ill take the TF up and if she ends up floating off down the river we will know it is a no go for the bigger bikes.

JATZ

14th December 2007, 17:48

Sorry about the picture, not the sort of thing you should be seeing on a bike site, but this gives you an idea of the depth of the ford accross the wairau and what the bottoms like There's another couple of small creek type crossings before this one with slightly bigger rocks.

The Lake Challice track is not far past the end of the Onamalutu loop which would add about another 54 k's to the trip if the Molesworth is shut.

cooneyr

15th December 2007, 08:02

Last time we were up that way the track up right to the the Goulter River was absoulutely sweet........

Thanks for that - sounding positive so far.

Sorry about the picture, not the sort of thing you should be seeing on a bike site, but this gives you an idea of the depth of the ford accross the wairau and what the bottoms like There's another couple of small creek type crossings before this one with slightly bigger rocks.

The Lake Challice track is not far past the end of the Onamalutu loop which would add about another 54 k's to the trip if the Molesworth is shut.

That pic is pretty telling. Water is probably not much deeper than about 15/16 inches given the look of the tyres on the truck. The height of the wave upstream is pretty small so would assume that the current is not very fast. Lastly the stones are pretty small and there is enough sand to keep everything stable. I know what assume equals but if that is the worst crossing then this route is looking like a goer (if we need it!).

We defiantly don't need any more distance i.e. Lake Chalice. We were just after a Plan B if the Molesworth is closed that doesn't involve the just riding the State Highway 63 seal up the Wairau Valley.

Cheers guys.
R

NordieBoy

15th December 2007, 10:46

Lastly the stones are pretty small and there is enough sand to keep everything stable.

But thin tyres + gravelly riverbed = digging in.

I'm up for testing it - Who's coming with me :D

JATZ

15th December 2007, 11:39

Keen for a look nordie, when are you thinking of going, I think I'm booked up tomorrow,can let you know later

NordieBoy

15th December 2007, 11:41

Not this weekend.
Classic MX tomorrow over in Taparewa.

When are you up this way Mr CooneyR?

Transalper

15th December 2007, 15:04

Here's a summery of our first attempt..
Our version of the Dusty Butt 1000km in 24 hours mostly shingle roads all hilly and winding. This is the summery of our first attempt on the 10th more... March 2007 which didn't exactly go as planned. We had two flat tyres and had to share a key for two gates in the Rainbow. That on top of BusaJim taking a passenger on the BMW and the fact most of us didn't get a decent sleep the night before because we had been riding to the start which was in Nelson slowed us to the point of not being able to finish within the 24hours.
The part in this video is the 5:30am start, over the Maungatapu, through some forestry zigzagging our way to Blenheim, then up the Black Birch range to the top of Mt Altimarloch and back, (two flat tyres already) through the Molesworth in to Hanmer, through the Rainbow Station to St Arnaud where some called it a day. The rest went over the Porika and Braeburn tracks to Murchison where there was another flat tyre and my headlight was only working on high beam. At 11:40pm the rest of us called it there and rode another hour and a half back to Nelson.

There be another video in a few weeks of the rest of the route done on other days, and a 2008 version after we have another crack at the whole thing on the 5th January 2008.

<div><embed src="http://www.livevideo.com/flvplayer/embed/FBC19A626EA24E0F82537DD472555D7B" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" WIDTH="445" HEIGHT="369" wmode="transparent"></embed><br/><a href="http://www.livevideo.com/video/embedLink/FBC19A626EA24E0F82537DD472555D7B/463297/dusty-attempt-1-full-vers.aspx">Dusty **** Attempt 1 full version</a></div>

Transalper

15th December 2007, 15:10

Here's the same video at Youtube, for me YT loads faster than the LV one above but the picture isn't as nice.

<object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/A1n9w7Oy_uQ&rel=1"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/A1n9w7Oy_uQ&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>

Balrog

15th December 2007, 17:38

Thanks for putting that up Transalper, its bloody great. :niceone:

I'm so looking forward to this ride :banana:

NordieBoy

15th December 2007, 17:39

Here's a summery of our first attempt..

Cool music :D

cooneyr

15th December 2007, 20:20

Not this weekend.
Classic MX tomorrow over in Taparewa.

When are you up this way Mr CooneyR?

Will be up on the 29th via either the Molesworth or the Rainbow and then down the Wairau to check the Northbank Road out. Yet to be decided which way based on what's going to happen with the Molesworth. Will be in Hanmer Boxing day on so will talk to the DOC peeps and will let you fullas know.

Cheers R

cooneyr

15th December 2007, 21:10

Just watched ya Vid Transalper. Bloody good job - I think I captures the trip really well.

Didnt know about Plugs DR hard seat comment. LOL.

Cheers R

Zukin

16th December 2007, 13:27

Hi all

I have someone else that maybe interested in the 2 day DB

Where are you staying in St Arnaud, motor camp or hotel?
He is staying in NZ from overseas and doesn't have a route sheet holder, will you be riding as a group?

Cheers Scott

NordieBoy

16th December 2007, 18:51

JATZ

16th December 2007, 19:54

For anyone doing the 2 dayer the missus will be bringing our accomodation up to St Arnaud on the saturday, there's space for any gear people don't wan't to carry on the whole trip

Skinny_Birdman

17th December 2007, 07:48

Definatly keen to investigate this but we should defiantly not commit the DB route to this without checking it out first.

Cheers R

You should definitely learn to spell definitely :innocent:

For anyone doing the 2 dayer the missus will be bringing our accomodation up to St Arnaud on the saturday, there's space for any gear people don't wan't to carry on the whole trip

I'd be keen to avail myself of this, because James and I'll likely be camping in the DOC camping ground.

Cheers
A

cooneyr

17th December 2007, 08:13

You should definitely learn to spell definitely :innocent:

Cheers
A

:shutup: I'm an engineer and everybody knows we cant spell, have crap grammar and donut know how to write reports and yet somehow that is how we make money :wacko:;)

Cheers R

NordieBoy

17th December 2007, 09:15

Will be up on the 29th via either the Molesworth or the Rainbow
Not via the Molesworth by the look of it :(

Molesworth road not opening due to fire danger

Date: 14 December 2007

The Acheron Road through Molesworth Station will not open to the public as scheduled on 28 December due to the high fire risk in the area. The road will remain closed until further notice.

DOC South Marlborough Area Manager Dave Hayes said it was unlikely enough rain would fall to enable the road to be opened as planned at the end of the month or in the near future.

“It would take substantial rainfall over some time to ease the fire danger to a level where the Acheron Road could be opened and with current weather patterns that is not looking likely."

cooneyr

17th December 2007, 09:25

Not via the Molesworth by the look of it :(

Bugger but Plan B investigations are well under way. Check out this thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=63141)for the Wairau Northbank Road investigation ride on the 29th Dec

Cheers R

cooneyr

17th December 2007, 12:58

Got the stickers back. $5 each as I said earlier. Any profits go to the KB site. Got 28 stickers.

Oh yea - how not to park when going through Maruia Saddle. Found these dorks when we went through couple weekends back. Just managed to get them out with the Vitara. If they'd gone about another 0.5m they would have fallen about 20m down the bank.

Cheers R

Alpha Solo

18th December 2007, 11:20

Great videos Transalper!

Might bring my head torch just in case of a light failure...

cooneyr

18th December 2007, 11:52

I've had some people requesting that I put a sticker aside for them. It is nice to know that people are keen on a sticker (given the financial risk is mine) but I'm not going to put stickers aside for people. It will be first in first served on the morning of the 5th. At this stage I know of just less than 20 people having put their hand up to do the DB and I have 28 stickers, so there should be plenty to go around.

If anybody is late starting and there are any stickers left then I will arrange for them to be sent out. If we run short and there is enough demand I will arrange a second batch.

Sorry to have to be ranty but I think this is the fairest way and means we don't waste stickers on no shows.

Cheers R

cooneyr

18th December 2007, 11:54

Great videos Transalper!

Might bring my head torch just in case of a light failure...

Probably want a head torch just so you can read the roll chart in the dark. Either that or you need to back light your roll chart holder.

Cheers R

Transalper

19th December 2007, 11:27

The Maungatapu in the daylight this time...it's 10 minutes following Nordieby end of October 2007.
The Youtube version is ready...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w852ZlE_gTY
w852ZlE_gTY

the LiveVideo (http://www.livevideo.com/transalpernz) version is in the next post..

Transalper

19th December 2007, 11:39

Ahh LV online... here (http://www.livevideo.com/video/25A0EC9A3140425190352FD48B1D9EB6/nelson-to-pelorus-it-s-the-mau.aspx)
.

NordieBoy

19th December 2007, 13:28

Yee Hah!

:D

Good fun day out.

Lugzy23

19th December 2007, 15:52

Thanks for putting that up TA. Good to see it like that so we know what we are in for. Doesnt look too bad, of course it will be alot more difficult in the dark. Cheers

Transalper

19th December 2007, 16:18

Don't think it will be totally dark when we go this time. The sun will be rising ealier in January than it did in the original March run. Of course twilight conditions don't always help.

edit..hmm sunrise in Nelson was 5:50am today, maybe it will be fairly dark still.

cooneyr

20th December 2007, 08:06

Been working on new maps and roll chart for Route B. Can only hope with the rain that is going though that maybe just maybe the Molesworth might open but not holding my breath.

I need to double check the roll chart (hope to have sorted tomorrow) for Route B but here is the overall route maps. The detailed maps haven't changed except we have dropped the Palmer Road (Spring Junction south) refer to the links in the first post (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=1269559&postcount=1) of this thread.

Cheers R

cooneyr

20th December 2007, 15:20

Somebodies been doing a rain dance or two or maybe it was just that I decided to spend last night redoing all the maps and roll chart. Whatever the case the Molesworth is going to open on the 28th as planned now :Punk: Article on the stuff site so I rang DOC to confirm and it defiantly is opening. I've been watching the forecasts for another ride we are doing (Lees Valley) and I think that the Molesworth will get more rain yet.

Acheron Road through historic Molesworth Station in the southern Marlborough high country will open to the public next week.

But Department of Conservation (DOC) south Marlborough area manager Dave Hayes said today how long the road remained open depended on whether the fire risk became high.
ADVERTISEMENT

Molesworth is a recreation reserve managed by DOC. Travelling the road is free, but fees are charged for overnight stays in camping areas.

DOC usually opens the stunningly scenic high country road from December to April, but it can close without warning due to weather conditions and people are advised to check before making a trip.

The 59km trip between Hanmer Springs and Blenheim takes about six hours on the narrow unsealed road and motorists are urged to take extreme care to avoid starting fires.

DOC hadn't intended opening the road this year because of a high fire risk in the area, but Mr Hayes said long range weather forecasts now indicated it could be opened at least until the middle of next month.

"But we can't be certain what the weather will do and how it will affect the fire risk," he said today. "If the fire risk gets high again, we may have to close the road."

The road will open on December 28.

Guess this means I had better let you know about the error I found in the original roll chart last night. Details are
Cell 78 should have a part distance of 18.9km, not 20.1 as is currently. Total is 18.9km not 20.1 as currently
Cell 79 should have a part distance of 14.1km, not 14.9 as is currently. Total is 33.0km not 35.0 as currently
Cell 80 should have a part distance of 2.4km, not 2.7 as is currently. Total is 35.4km not 37.7 as currently

Suggest you just hand write the corrections on your roll chart.

Cheers R

P.S. Stuff need to do some logic checks - 59kms in 6 hours thats 9.8kms/hr. A person can just about walk that fast!

Zukin

20th December 2007, 15:46

:2thumbsup:2thumbsup
:clap:

I think we were all doing a rain dance.
If they had the same rainfall as we did in Hawkes Bay, then we should be good to go

Alpha Solo

20th December 2007, 17:11

Bring on the rain - help's keep the dust down!

Zukin

20th December 2007, 17:40

Bring on the rain - help's keep the dust down!

I trust you are taking the Beemer:clap:

NordieBoy

20th December 2007, 18:18

I've been watching the forecasts for another ride we are doing (Lees Valley) and I think that the Molesworth will get more rain yet.

Tonights "Leader" says it's not going to open as hoped on the 28th.

Fingers crossed.

warewolf

20th December 2007, 20:40

Tonights "Leader" says it's not going to open as hoped on the 28th.The lead time on "The Leader" leads me to believe it's misleading. :yes:

warewolf

20th December 2007, 20:44

Yay! Plan B would be nice but Plan A works for me, too.

P.S. Stuff need to do some logic checks - 59kms in 6 hours thats 9.8kms/hr.Tupographical error there, um could be geographical?! In the 4wd with my parents we took about 6 hours for that run, we were in no hurry at all.

Transalper

20th December 2007, 21:18

You could make it take 6 hours, but I'd think that was Blenheim to Hanmer and that's a few more than 59km.

cooneyr

20th December 2007, 21:31

I rang DOC South Marlborough at about 4 this afternoon and the Molesworth is definitely opening. Suspect the papers are a bit out of date - got to love the net aye.

It was the logic of the distance vs time that Stuff needed to think about. About 6 hours in a vehicle is about right but the 59km ummm na.

We're still going ahead with the ride down the Wairau on the 29th (thread here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=63141)) to check out Route B if anybody wants to join in.

Cheers R

Alpha Solo

21st December 2007, 06:50

I trust you are taking the Beemer:clap:

Nah, I'm gonna keep it mint and trade it in for a GS 800 when they get released!

So coming up on the DRZ 400.

Alpha Solo

21st December 2007, 06:59

Made a few calls and it looks like a lot of the BB's etc are already booked :doh:

Does anyone locally have a spare floor I can sleep on? I will be bringing my own sleeping bag etc and snore like a machine (advanced warning)

warewolf

21st December 2007, 08:02

Does anyone locally have a spare floor I can sleep on? I will be bringing my own sleeping bag etc and snore like a machine (advanced warning)Do you mean at Nelson on the 4th-6th? (You haven't enrolled in the calendar for the event :spanking:) You're welcome to stay with us, might put you in the garage though so we all get a good night's sleep! We still have a fold-out bed in the lounge and plenty of floor space if anyone else needs a bed.

warewolf

21st December 2007, 08:06

For those doing the 1-dayer, if you have time and haven't had enough of two wheels by Sunday, the Nelson classic & vintage club have their show on the DB weekend. Well worth a look, thoroughly recommended. I've put the details in the calendar.

Alpha Solo

21st December 2007, 15:05

Thanks for the offer Colin - I will take you up on it,

it's only my wife who moans about my snoring, but you guys will be oblivious to it compared to exhaust pipe noise!

Where is this calender? Please put me on it!!!

:yes::yes::yes:

cooneyr

21st December 2007, 15:20

The calendar for the actual ride is on this page (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2008-1-5&c=0).

The calendar for the BBQ the night before is on this page (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2008-1-4&c=0).

If any of you other lurkers (I've been watching and I know who you are!) want to join in please put your name on the page and get in touch.

For the 1 dayers
Remember all that you really should organise or contact a group to ride with. This is not the sort of ride to do alone and not all of the 1 dayers will be staying in one group. There will be at least two 1 dayer groups maybe three.

Cheers R

Alpha Solo

21st December 2007, 15:48

I got 'with the program' :doh:

I might drop back to the two dayer list (still haven't ridden the DRZ for more than a couple of hours) depends how sore the butt is after the ride up from Chch.

:o

Zukin

21st December 2007, 16:14

Only 14 days and 6 hours to go :clap:

Can you tell I am looking forward to this :blink:

Zukin

21st December 2007, 16:21

Well the bike is all ready to go :clap:

New tyres fitted today, new WOF and Rego
The lights are all fitted and ready to go.

The only thing that isnt ready is me :2thumbsup

All I can say is bring it on :clap:

mattsdakar

21st December 2007, 17:11

Page A4 of todays Christchurch Press reports:

"DOC has confirmed, due to this weeks rain easing fire risk Acheron Road will be opening to the public on December 28"

Game on!!!!

mattsdakar

21st December 2007, 17:19

[QUOTE=peachvw;1350747]I got 'with the program' :doh:

I might drop back to the two dayer list (still haven't ridden the DRZ for more than a couple of hours) depends how sore the butt is after the ride up from Chch.

Happy to do periodic swapsies on the the way up with you like, I think we would both agree the Dakar's seat will be more comfortable than the DRZ

Rgds Matt

NordieBoy

21st December 2007, 17:41

I'd be keen to avail myself of this, because James and I'll likely be camping in the DOC camping ground.

Kerr Bay or West Bay?

Better make sure we're all at the same one as it looks like it'll be little tent time as I havn't been able to get hold of the house I was after.

The campground/s are $10 per person.
Anyone of the 2-dayers already booked or should I get an area set aside for us?

JATZ

21st December 2007, 18:21

Offer is still open if anyone wants camping gear taken to St Arnaud, the missus can pick it up on the saturday morn before kick off. Kerr bay suits me Nordie, think it would be best to book a space as it's pretty busy up there that time of the year.

New tyres Nordie, must be catchy as the beemer got a new set today too

Zukin

21st December 2007, 18:52

Kerr Bay or West Bay?

Better make sure we're all at the same one as it looks like it'll be little tent time as I havn't been able to get hold of the house I was after.

The campground/s are $10 per person.
Anyone of the 2-dayers already booked or should I get an area set aside for us?

Hi
Can you confirm the details of where you will be camping so I can let Christian know (A french rider I had to stay here for a few days), he has all the camping gear.
Also will he need a route sheet holder etc or will the 2 day riders be travelling in a group?

Cheers Scott

NordieBoy

21st December 2007, 19:32

I'll call and try and get a possie for 7-8 people in Kerr Bay then.
The 2-day is going to be a bit more cruisey so 1 or 2 groups would be cool.
I've got 4 UHF radios to scatter amongst the group as a few of the areas will be out of cell coverage and range-wise there shouldn't be more than a Km or 2 covering the groups.

Zukin

21st December 2007, 22:26

I am bored but in training for DB1K :confused:

I was up at 4.30am worked all day and am waiting up to acclimatise my body :laugh:

cooneyr

22nd December 2007, 08:59

I am bored but in training for DB1K :confused:

I was up at 4.30am worked all day and am waiting up to acclimatise my body :laugh:

Bout an hour or two short I recon. :yawn: Also hope you were walking/jogging/running all day?

Looking forward to cracking this ride. :Punk:

Cheers R

PLUG

22nd December 2007, 09:08

Looking forward to cracking this ride. :Punk:

Cheers R

... you bet ya ... dusty is goin down

Zukin

22nd December 2007, 09:35

Bout an hour or two short I recon. :yawn: Also hope you were walking/jogging/running all day?

Looking forward to cracking this ride. :Punk:

Cheers R

Ummm

mentally I am prepared, but physically :laugh: :laugh:

zeRax

22nd December 2007, 11:32

well im posting atm cause tyre changing is driving me nuts, my first attempt at changing an mx tyre, and prompty it enraged me, so i logged in here to look at that video again where that fucking bastard fuck makes it look so easy, i hate him right now :P

NordieBoy

22nd December 2007, 12:52

well im posting atm cause tyre changing is driving me nuts, my first attempt at changing an mx tyre, and prompty it enraged me

Not Mich S12's were they?

zeRax

22nd December 2007, 13:01

nah, havent even looked, some cheap old chinese things on shit old rims off my xr200 parts bike, @#$%#$%#$%

Transalper

22nd December 2007, 13:11

what bit's making you sware... if it's hard to do then you have to step back and have another look at what you're doing, if you're doing a bit where you're using tyre leavers then chances are the opposite side of the tyre isn't down in the rim well properly.
Now days I find the bead break the hardest bit, after that I take the tyre off on both sides so the rim falls down inside the tyre and it's easy to just pull the rim out of the tyre then.
Mounting the new tyre I've started putting the tube in the tyre with a few psi in it (well just a bit of air, not really any actual pressure), sticking the valve through its hole then mounting the whole thing as a unit.
Anything in paticular you want to ask while we're here?