2008 Grand Challenge

[banditrider]

Finally sent my entry in today. So who else is in? :scooter:

[Hitcher]

Sadly this year, not the Hitchers. We will be excessively impoverished and annual leave poor after our USA excursion. I am suffering withdrawal symptoms just thinking about it.

[banditrider]

Sadly this year, not the Hitchers. We will be excessively impoverished and annual leave poor after our USA excursion. I am suffering withdrawal symptoms just thinking about it.

Bugger eh? Not really - I think I could happily miss one for a trip like yours. I'm sure you'll have a blast - seeya next year.

[Nagash]

I'll have to send in my application pretty soon.. Never been on one before, but I reckon it'll be wicked fun.

Just a question.. how strict are they on what bike you enter with? Cause I may well have sold the 250 and moved on before the grand challenge..

[KoroJ]

Sadly this year, not the Hitchers. We will be excessively impoverished and annual leave poor after our USA excursion. I am suffering withdrawal symptoms just thinking about it.

You don't need annual leave, just ride up Saturday morning and home Sunday night!!! Alright, if you feel that's too much, you can come up Friday night and as for impoverished.......do it on a 50!!!



(No correspondence will be entered into and outbursts of morale will not be tolerated)

[Hitcher]

Just a question.. how strict are they on what bike you enter with? Cause I may well have sold the 250 and moved on before the grand challenge..

You can ride whatever you like, provided it is road legal and passes the scrutineers' eagle eyes. The inspection standard applied before the start is that the bike should be able to pass a WOF at the completion of the event. The scrutinising Rusties are thorough and exacting.

[Pumba]

Have to have a sporting calander confirmed at the end of the month and as long as ther are no clashes I will defently be doing my first GC this year:wari:

[Qkchk]

Have to have a sporting calander confirmed at the end of the month and as long as ther are no clashes I will defently be doing my first GC this year:wari:

Could make that 3 of us as first timers............

[Hitcher]

Warning. It is hard to stop at just one GC. I am already experiencing withdrawal symptoms for this year's one.

[banditrider]

Warning. It is hard to stop at just one GC. I am already experiencing withdrawal symptoms for this year's one.

Yep, I had a break for a few years but am back with a vengeance - no stopping until I get my mug!

[TerminalAddict]

I'm gonna skip it this year I think .. might join the southern cross instead

[P38]

I'm also Planning on bustin my Grand Challenge Cherry this year.

Hoping to complete the Southern Cross in April 09 too

[xgnr]

Got the letter today as it happens for my second bout of madness. (why do we do these things to ourselves?)

Group 3 departing at 3.06pm....

Need to round up the usual miscreants .... Puddy and Zapf... will be in touch.:stupid:

Cheers

Stu

[banditrider]

Group 4, 3:09:headbang:

[Pumba]

Doesnt look I will be making it now, looks like an event on my sporting calander is going to clash:bash:

Still a small chance though

[Holy Roller]

Looks like again this year I will be unable to make it as i have just had to use up my leave fitting out our new shop that has just opened in Whakatane. certainly made a few brownie points with the mrs. Next year has already been marked on the calendar, so hers hopeing.

[KoroJ]

Looks like again this year I will be unable to make it as i have just had to use up my leave fitting out our new shop that has just opened in Whakatane. certainly made a few brownie points with the mrs. Next year has already been marked on the calendar, so hers hopeing.

That's a pity Gordon. Now I'll have to find another guide......again!!

[Nasty]

That's a pity Gordon. Now I'll have to find another guide......again!!

Here I was thinking your bike was fitted out with EVERYTHING Koro ;)

[KoroJ]

Here I was thinking your bike was fitted out with EVERYTHING Koro ;)

No Blingy Bit additions to my bike. Stock standard it is. But....like the other Captani Kirk from the other 'Enterprize'......it's the 'Mad Cow' that worries me!! Never know where I might end up!

[wickle]

Could make that 3 of us as first timers............
And couple more from down this way!

[Taz]

I will be there again as will Cary. Look for the R1100GS and Triumph Tiger.....
See you all there.
Andy.

[Meanie]

Four points this year, Sothern Cross ealy next year and then the GC later next year, thats the plan anyway

[trevf]

im having another go this year-last one for me was 2004-im in the 3-09 group-ill be on the red hornet

[banditrider]

GC later next year, thats the plan anyway

Gonna remember you said that...

[Meanie]

Gonna remember you said that...

I am counting on it

[banditrider]

I am counting on it

Good - will send ya an entry...

[Lee Rusty]

I'll have to send in my application pretty soon.. Never been on one before, but I reckon it'll be wicked fun.

Just a question.. how strict are they on what bike you enter with? Cause I may well have sold the 250 and moved on before the grand challenge..

no problems if you enter on one bike then change it - just send us an email to let us know - we will change your startewr card info and away you go.

[RiderInBlack]

Yep, I had a break for a few years but am back with a vengeance - no stopping until I get my mug!Back in too. Money has been tight and I had to retire "Roxanne", but am going ta give "Zena" "her" first taste of the the GC this year. See ya dudes there.

[Lee Rusty]

for the first time on a GN250
and also there is a 400 cc MP3

Great to see riders trying new bikes, and it has taken so long for an attempt by a GN on the Grand Challenge - some of the older riders will remember I used a GN for a SCRR a few years back









Back in too. Money has been tight and I had to retire "Roxanne", but am going ta give "Zena" "her" first taste of the the GC this year. See ya dudes there.

[banditrider]

Go the GN!

[ntst8]

Another first timer, and another in the 3:09 group.
Also one of a group of 5 bikes planning on the Southern Cross next year.

[Blackbird]

Another first timer, and another in the 3:09 group.
Also one of a group of 5 bikes planning on the Southern Cross next year.

Enjoy! You'll find plenty of ride reports on both events if you do a search.

[RiderInBlack]

Got My Starting Orders:
No. 64
Group 7
Start Time: 3:18pm

Sorted my lights. 2 pair of driving lamps to sort "Zena's" poor "eye's". Getting a local upholster ta put some high density foam in "her" seat ta sort the "GC butt whipping" and then it will be only me I will need ta make sure is fit enough.

[Cary]

I will be there again as will Cary. Look for the R1100GS and Triumph Tiger.....
See you all there.
Andy.

I got plenty of luggage space on the Tiger Andy so nothing stopping you taking the Duke :ride:

[Taz]

I got plenty of luggage space on the Tiger Andy so nothing stopping you taking the Duke :ride:

Want to be able to walk afterwards and the bmw's got a nice big tank and heated grips and spotlights and.... and.... and.....

[bryce]

sent in my entry not got it back yet,it will be my 5th time ,mist last year ,a good one to miss from what i here,dune it twice on the old rf twice on the tl so james and i decided to try the gn;s ,my sister sold her one so if we do,nt find anther one i,ll do it on my own ,moose might be entred on his bonnie but don,t think he,ll wait for me,what,s with all the lights i,ll be no a standed gn 6 volt lights ,do,s any one no if you are able to have petrol in a pack as the tl and gn only do 200 k,s a tank and i be able to wast time back tracking for fills like on the tl,see you all in nov (fingers crossed)it mite be me lee mentioned earlier.

[RiderInBlack]

Have strapped a jeri-can ta the bike seat before for the GC. Will be taking one again this year too:msn-wink:

[bryce]

I got my entry back this morning.:laugh:
And i will be seeing u in Oct not Nov.

[puddy]

GC 2008. Oct 18/19. Barbender and I are going, plus two others not on KB. Group 5, 3.12pm. Who else on here is going?

[banditrider]

Me and quite a few others - another thread here: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=75788

[RiderInBlack]

Me and quite a few others - another thread here: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=75788
Looks like he got "Merged", LOL.
Cool another group of KB'ers ahead of me ta Hunt down:blip:

[puddy]

Looks like he got "Merged", LOL.
Cool another group of KB'ers ahead of me ta Hunt down:blip:
Yeah I got 'merged', but I don't feel dirty!

[puddy]

Could make that 3 of us as first timers............
Are the Qks going this year?

[BOGAR]

EDIT * Still thinking about doing it but because i have no friends :bye: dose any one mind keeping an eye out for me and giving a few pointer if i do go??? *
Have decided not to go. i dont think i can be organised in time and i dont think i could do the distance required. but good luck to all the crazy people who do it.

[Cary]

GC 2008. Oct 18/19. Barbender and I are going, plus two others not on KB. Group 5, 3.12pm. Who else on here is going?

Same group same time, see you then :Punk:

[Hitcher]

Still thinking about doing it but because i have no friends. dose any one mind keeping an eye out for me and giving a few pointer if i do go???

The GC riders are a big friendly family. Don't be afraid to ask questions during the scrutineering and pick the brains of the Rustys and others. There's always a bunch of newbies there every year. During the ride, just tag along with somebody or a group who ride at a pace and in a manner you're comfortable with. It's not a race and there's no need to speed. The trick is managing your stops. A rolling average of 70kmh will see you home in 24 hours. Most people who don't complete in the required time have either had a mechanical failure or got hopelessly lost.

[Zapf]

wow. just found this thread. I was still sitting on the fence, seeing how many ppl are coming getting keen on coming along again now.

[RiderInBlack]

wow. just found this thread. I was still sitting on the fence, seeing how many ppl are coming getting keen on coming along again now.Be keen ta see ya there Zapf. Been too long since we last roded together.

[xgnr]

wow. just found this thread. I was still sitting on the fence, seeing how many ppl are coming getting keen on coming along again now.

Mate

Heading down on Friday. Have booked Friday and Monday off.

cheers

Stu

[Lee Rusty]

Still thinking about doing it but because i have no friends :bye: dose any one mind keeping an eye out for me and giving a few pointer if i do go???

every one will look out for you - everyone remembers their first GC and will help make yours fun.

[puddy]

wow. just found this thread. I was still sitting on the fence, seeing how many ppl are coming getting keen on coming along again now.
Go on! You know you want to! And Stu says he's going to murder you:2guns: this time! Go the K BIKE!:Punk:

[Qkkid]

Are the Qks going this year?

Bloody keen on doing it but think we will be too busy with students....we have got more BHS tests than you can shake a stick at!

[Zapf]

And Stu says he's going to murder you:2guns: this time! Go the K BIKE!:Punk:

Oh? :P just because he can't keep up last time :wari:

[Lee Rusty]

Closing entries on 10th Oct for this year nearly full now and late entries may well be turned away.

LR

[Zapf]

Closing entries on 10th Oct for this year nearly full now and late entries may well be turned away.

LR

If possible can you hold a place for me Lee? I will be able to confirm my attendence come Monday. Thanks.

[Beemer]

Mmn, let's see, Andy has done all of them to date, do you think he'll be lining up again this year? Do bears do the proverbial in the woods?!!!

Rather him than me, I think I'd be hard pressed to complete half the distance safely, especially on a seat as uncomfortable as the Goose's so I'll leave it to him to fly the flag. He really enjoys it and looks forward to catching up with all the other riders each year.

[Hitcher]

In addition to having no leave due and no money, the FJR now isn't due back in the country until November. Sigh.

[insomnia01]

Hi there all KB'ers,

Just interested in seeing how many of us are doing the Rusty's grand challenge again this year:Punk:

[rasty]

Yep!...................

[xgnr]

Hi there all KB'ers,

Just interested in seeing how many of us are doing the Rusty's grand challenge again this year:Punk:

Maybe do a Poll with response seen so we can all see who intends to torture themselves for 20 odd hours?

There are a couple threads out there in kiwibiker land that you could go laboriously thru I guess (if bored) then post a list for us :laugh:

Cheers

Stu

[xgnr]

Oh? :P just because he can't keep up last time :wari:

I refuse to be intimidated into flashy displays of sub 21 hours...

Just keep a cold beer ready for Nigel and me to enjoy after our cruise ok?

Looking forward to it in some strange (sick) way.

Cheers

stu

[xgnr]

oh and Paturoa has volunteered his car and trailer to follow me around (bastard)

[EJK]

What was the smallest bike that has done this before? ZZR250?

[Forest]

What was the smallest bike that has done this before? ZZR250?

It has been completed by a 50cc bike. I think it was an old RG50.

[MarkH]

It has been completed by a 50cc bike. I think it was an old RG50.

That's pretty damned impressive!

[Kickaha]

It has been completed by a 50cc bike. I think it was an old RG50.

In 1992 when I did it the first time it was completed by "Pink" on a NSR80

[Forest]

That's pretty damned impressive!

The some rider went on to complete the Southern Cross rally using the same bike.

Bloody impressive.

[insomnia01]

I'll have to send in my application pretty soon.. Never been on one before, but I reckon it'll be wicked fun.

Just a question.. how strict are they on what bike you enter with? Cause I may well have sold the 250 and moved on before the grand challenge..

Grp 2 this year :woohoo:

[kasper]

question where does the GC run from and too and any advise?

[Zapf]

question where does the GC run from and too and any advise?

Its from Turangi, but you don't get to find out where you are going till the night before.


Also, both me and Gremlin have our entry forms in the post. :woohoo:

[Wiki Drifter]

question what's the longest distance between fuel stops on the CC? Are there 24hr petrol stations along the route? My steed isn't exactly fuel efficient :pinch:

[banditrider]

Its from Turangi, but you don't get to find out where you are going till the night before.



question what's the longest distance between fuel stops on the CC? Are there 24hr petrol stations along the route? My steed isn't exactly fuel efficient :pinch:

See above quote - you never know until all is revealed. But the checkpoints are generally at gas stations (and they're open for business) and the route instructions also normally have 24hr gas stations listed on them.

[Hitcher]

question what's the longest distance between fuel stops on the CC? Are there 24hr petrol stations along the route? My steed isn't exactly fuel efficient

It's a 1,680km event. There are usually five checkpoints. If they were equally spaced (which they never are) that's an average leg length of about 267km. And checkpoints are always at 24-hour gas stations. The hardest GC's we ever did were when Mrs H was riding Marauders and we'd have to plan for gas stops at about every 180-200km. Two years ago the first stage was a long one, but most riders stopped at New Plymouth and gassed up there en route to Hawera. The route plan will tell you the distance between checkpoints, and you'll be able to work out where else to stop based on your bike's range and the wear rate of your piles.

[RiderInBlack]

Planning ya fuel stops (Especially the over night ones) is part of what I enjoy about the GC. I take a 5L Jeri-Can with me just encase I get it wrong. Came in handly on one GC as the first leg had more twisties in it (used more fuel) with a check point in the middle of no where (so not Petrol Pumps). So I used the stop ta put the Jeri-can fuel in the bike (wasn't going ta loss time doing that as we had had to stop anyway for the check point). Gained time doing that as it saved a fuel stop later in the ride (which saves around 10mins).

[banditrider]

Planning ya fuel stops (Especially the over night ones) is part of what I enjoy about the GC.

Exactly, good fun poring over maps before you leave and working it all out. Nice if you can try to work the checkpoints out around your range but sometimes it's a no-goer and you have to do one early and synchronize with the checkpoints if possible.

[RiderInBlack]

I try ta work from the Over-Night 24hr stops back ether way as those are the more critial ones.

[Wiki Drifter]

There are usually five checkpoints. If they were equally spaced (which they never are) that's an average leg length of about 267km.

oookay... looks like I'm going to be hauling a big jerry can. Posted my entry form today, hope its not too late. I've done +700km/day before but nothing close close to 1,600. This is going to be interesting :mellow:

[banditrider]

oookay... looks like I'm going to be hauling a big jerry can. Posted my entry form today, hope its not too late. I've done +700km/day before but nothing close close to 1,600. This is going to be interesting :mellow:

It's always interesting. Like someone said above - mental toughness is the order of the day. After all it's only just over twice your previous best...

The secret is take to small bites out of the 1,600km (It's only about 2hrs to checkpoint 2, then it's only 3 hrs to checkpoint 3 etc) and keep ya eye off ya odo.

[RiderInBlack]

Riding the Distance is one thing, but as important is to be used to riding at night and early pre-dawn as well as dealing with the Weather. Lee will have ya out there even in heavy rain (part of the "fun"). You should also be used ta riding fresh metal as ya never know how much Road Works is going ta be out there (plus ya might get stuck down the wrong road:stupid: done that before lol).

[Zapf]

oookay... looks like I'm going to be hauling a big jerry can. Posted my entry form today, hope its not too late. I've done +700km/day before but nothing close close to 1,600. This is going to be interesting :mellow:

What do you ride? what is your tank range? Upgrade your head lights... have you got heated grips? Have you got good tires for the wet?

And as RIB said below, you may benfit from some pratice rides in the dark. Say head out for a 5 hour ride in the dark and make sure your gear will do the job.


Riding the Distance is one thing, but as important is to be used to riding at night and early pre-dawn as well as dealing with the Weather. Lee will have ya out there even in heavy rain (part of the "fun"). You should also be used ta riding fresh metal as ya never know how much Road Works is going ta be out there (plus ya might get stuck down the wrong road:stupid: done that before lol).

Fresh metal....errrrr... (never) :P hate that shit

[puddy]

Riding the Distance is one thing, but as important is to be used to riding at night and early pre-dawn as well as dealing with the Weather. Lee will have ya out there even in heavy rain (part of the "fun"). You should also be used ta riding fresh metal as ya never know how much Road Works is going ta be out there (plus ya might get stuck down the wrong road:stupid: done that before lol).
Yeah, I'm pretty sure that that was your fault!:yes: You saw the Tui Brewery and just had to turn off there! I was only trying to catch up with you to tell you that you were going the wrong way.

[Mystic13]

I've decided to join you lot this year. 35, group 4, 3.09pm, whatever that means.

My plan is simple, start at the beginning, finish at the end, do it within 24 hours and have a lot of fun.

Outside of that, like most first timers I probably have a lot of questions that I'll figure over the next week or two. Time to create a little checklist and work my way down it. I'm planning to camp there Friday and no plan for Sunday.

And then of course, all going well the Southern Cross sounds like fun.

So what are the essential to bring other than the obvious?

[RiderInBlack]

Yeah, I'm pretty sure that that was your fault!:yes: You saw the Tui Brewery and just had to turn off there! I was only trying to catch up with you to tell you that you were going the wrong way.LOL, ya didn't sound so sure when Ya caught up, But the metal raod was a bit of a giveaway. Was good riding with ya and hope ta see ya again this year.

[banditrider]

I've decided to join you lot this year. 35, group 4, 3.09pm, whatever that means.

My plan is simple, start at the beginning, finish at the end, do it within 24 hours and have a lot of fun.

Outside of that, like most first timers I probably have a lot of questions that I'll figure over the next week or two. Time to create a little checklist and work my way down it. I'm planning to camp there Friday and no plan for Sunday.

And then of course, all going well the Southern Cross sounds like fun.

So what are the essential to bring other than the obvious?

Goodonya - it's a lot of fun.

I don't take a huge amount of stuff with me (after all it's only 24hrs and ya don't need ya PJ's) just things like the following: map, torch, puncture repair kit, wet weathers, extra warm clothes, drink, snacks, panadol, phone and that's about it. As long as your bikes in good nick then no worries eh?

Oh, and a sense of humour - (especially helpful if the weather turns to custard like last year).

[Hitcher]

And money, to buy petrol, food and beverages.

[puddy]

And duct tape! I can patch up me and my bike with a roll of duct tape! And cable ties!

[RiderInBlack]

And duct tape! I can patch up me and my bike with a roll of duct tape! And cable ties!Especial after hitting straying animals late at night.
Don't forget ta take ya mobile with ya with the Rusty Number loaded on it and have it charged. If for ANY reason ya have ta pull out of the GC at ANY stage, They need ta know ASAP. 1600km of road is a lot of road ta cover looking for a missing biker who has gone home ta cuddle his partner.

[Taz]

Oh and the GPS makes navigation so much easier. Programmed the entire route in last year.;)

[puddy]

Especial after hitting straying animals late at night.
Don't forget ta take ya mobile with ya with the Rusty Number loaded on it and have it charged. If for ANY reason ya have ta pull out of the GC at ANY stage, They need ta know ASAP. 1600km of road is a lot of road ta cover looking for a missing biker who has gone home ta cuddle his partner.
I'm pretty sure that the dog in question will stray no more! If I had known that he had done that much damage to my bike :crybaby:I would have run over/through him a few more times:angry2:, and made a seat cover out of him!

[kasper]

I just worked out that if I completd this challenge I would do about 2700km in 48 hours due to work with most of this on a 4 hour sleep on friday morning.

[RiderInBlack]

Yep. Have Friday off. Down ta the Camping grounds Friday 800km away from home. Rest up (I'm not to wired up for the run) until the start 3:18pm Sat. Should fin in heaps of time on Sun all going well 1600km later. Bed and up Mon ta ride back ta Whangarei 800km away. Now if ya think that is doing it hard, I'd tell ya that is the lazy way. Know a Whangarei rider that would do that all over the Weekend.
On the Rusty Nuts Tiki Tour (Must have another go at that) Day one was 800. Day two was 1000km. Day three was 1000km but had ta pull out due too a cold (Bugger it). Some did 1400km day three with 1000km to do day four and another 1000km five:gob: Only four made the most of the run (I think that is right but ask Lee Rusty for the low down on that one).
Hey Lee, would like another stab at the Tiki tour one day. I know it was a one off, but I'd love ta having another go at knocking that bugger off. Plan ta do it one day even if The Rusties don't run it again. Is definitely a life goal of mine. In the two year plan.

[bryce]

work out a plan of fuel stops to suit your range,it can be quicker to ride in to a check ,check in and move on to a quieter station for gas i will be taking
a 5 litre can this year but other years i,ve had to back track for gas .it like a big game of leap frog .you meet different people at different stops .and there are bikes at just about every station you pass, if you ride with a mate with less range work your stops out together to keep stops to a minimum ,also meal stops ,one year i rode with three ,planned tea at 7 ,as we rode out off the check before james said we stop at 9pm. at the next stop moose disrobed as james did a quick fill , i thought he had told moose ,so lost 15-20 mins.

[puddy]

Yep. Have Friday off. Down ta the Camping grounds Friday 800km away from home. Rest up (I'm not to wired up for the run) until the start 3:18pm Sat. Should fin in heaps of time on Sun all going well 1600km later. Bed and up Mon ta ride back ta Whangarei 800km away.

See, it is you that gets us lost! For me, Turangi to Akld is about 330kms, and Whangarei is another 180ish kms. That 800 you speak of must include a Tiki Tour or TWO!:bash: Say no to Dougs! (sorry DRUGS!):yes::yes::yes:

[puddy]

People ya don't see at the GC....
DMNTD-even the bloke with the girly name is having a go this year!
jafar-take the blue pill!
boomer-go on!
beyond-you'd be a fu*%ing LEGEND!
mormon stunt crew-a lot of posts...how 'bout some riding!
Quasi-you have to if carver does!
idleidolidyll-don't be.............idle.........idol..........!!!
Anybody I've missed?

[Zapf]

People ya don't see at the GC....
DMNTD-even the bloke with the girly name is having a go this year!
jafar-take the blue pill!
boomer-go on!
beyond-you'd be a fu*%ing LEGEND!
mormon stunt crew-a lot of posts...how 'bout some riding!
Quasi-you have to if carver does!
idleidolidyll-don't be.............idle.........idol..........!!!
Anybody I've missed?

Na... those peeps arn't hard enough to do it. your normal fine weather biker will just get lost at night. :chase:

[Hitcher]

your normal fine weather biker will just get lost at night.

Particularly when it's pissing down and gusting to over 130kmh. That's what makes it special. And that coffee at 5:00am more enjoyable, when you're wet and frozen...

[Taz]

Particularly when it's pissing down and gusting to over 130kmh. That's what makes it special. And that coffee at 5:00am more enjoyable, when you're wet and frozen...

Damn right. And roadworks at 3am on SH22 and watching the dawn slowly creep in...... And finishing the ride and being unable to sleep :)

[Hitcher]

And finishing the ride and being unable to sleep

Now that is one problem I have never had.

[mangell6]

A 600km practice ride yesterday in the gusts over to Waipukarau via Wimbledon and back to Hunterville and then SH1 home.
The breeze was a good bit of practice and the rain at the end was acceptable as well.

[RiderInBlack]

See, it is you that gets us lost! For me, Turangi to Akld is about 330kms, and Whangarei is another 180ish kms. That 800 you speak of must include a Tiki Tour or TWO!:bash: Say no to Dougs! (sorry DRUGS!):yes::yes::yes:
Ooops. Just retracted the route I used last time. 584.5km (not Miles:stupid:) one way. Hunter Rd, Parakao, Whangarei to Turangi via SH30. No worries, I get there. Ya sure ya don't want ta follow me this year Puddy:laugh:

[puddy]

Ooops. Just retracted the route I used last time. 584.5km (not Miles:stupid:) one way. Hunter Rd, Parakao, Whangarei to Turangi via SH30. No worries, I get there. Ya sure ya don't want ta follow me this year Puddy:laugh:

Yeah OK, as long as I can rig up that 40 litre Safari tank!:buggerd:

[RiderInBlack]

Will be heading down The Fri Before the GC. Will be in AK early enough ta get last min bike stuff in Takapunga before heading down ta Taurangi Via SH30. Anyone want ta Join me on the way?

[Wiki Drifter]

does anybody know a number I can call to confirm if my entry form has been received? I sent it on Oct 1st but no reply yet :mellow: given that the cut off is 2 days away I really don't want to miss out.

[Zapf]

Will be heading down The Fri Before the GC. Will be in AK early enough ta get last min bike stuff in Takapunga before heading down ta Taurangi Via SH30. Anyone want ta Join me on the way?

What time Friday?

We are planning to leave Auckland around 4pm Friday.

[xgnr]

does anybody know a number I can call to confirm if my entry form has been received? I sent it on Oct 1st but no reply yet :mellow: given that the cut off is 2 days away I really don't want to miss out.

Try to PM "Lee Rusty"

[xgnr]

Looks like I am riding down by myself from Auckland on the Friday:cry:

Plan on heading away soon after midday on Friday.

PM me if you want to tag along.

Cheers

Stu

[RiderInBlack]

What time Friday?

We are planning to leave Auckland around 4pm Friday.
4pm sounds awesome. Where ya joining up?

[banditrider]

I'll (with at least 1 of our group of 4) heading up sometime on Friday afternoon. Planning to stop by the camping ground to get scrutineered before parking up at our motel.

[puddy]

I'll (with at least 1 of our group of 4) heading up sometime on Friday afternoon. Planning to stop by the camping ground to get scrutineered before parking up at our motel.
Motel? Take the blue pill!(is it a nice motel? Spa? vacancies?)

[Lee Rusty]

I just worked out that if I completd this challenge I would do about 2700km in 48 hours due to work with most of this on a 4 hour sleep on friday morning.

Give me a name other than the sign in name used here - I have no entry from anyone called Wiki

Ring me in the evening 09 4165866 or use the email address I PMed you for a quicker reply

Lee

[Gremlin]

Also, both me and Gremlin have our entry forms in the post. :woohoo:
Yeh, this bugger twisted my arm into doing it (someone tell me why?). Always wanted to, so thought, hell, why not.

The fun began straight away. Less than 3 weeks out from the GC, I trade the zx10 on the new bike, and have been frantically trying to fit all the accessories and gear, run it in and and get it serviced. Looks like its going according to plan, with the service scheduled for Wednesday, with last of the bits going on as well, then we leave Friday afternoon. Parts coming from afar as Slovenia and Austria :rolleyes:

Otherwise, its the backup bike, but lets hope not.

Oh, Zapf and I are group 8, 3:21pm

[insomnia01]

Just out of interest ..... of those that are attending the GC this year & have completed past events, do you have any goals for this years event??

[KoroJ]

Just out of interest ..... of those that are attending the GC this year & have completed past events, do you have any goals for this years event??

The goal is to finish within 24 hours.

After the frenetic pace and minimal stops required to do the extension (2100Kms) last year, I think 21 hours sounds like a nice target. Trouble is, once you hit the road and it feels sweet, who wants to average 76kph.

The other unknown which prevents one from setting a target is the devious, dastardly, downright sadistic and peverse nature of the Rustys who revel in setting the most obscure routes through the worst weather conditions one could wish for.

As I said.....24 hours and enjoy the pain!

[Zapf]

The goal is to finish within 24 hours.

The other unknown which prevents one from setting a target is the devious, dastardly, downright sadistic and peverse nature of the Rustys who revel in setting the most obscure routes through the worst weather conditions one could wish for.

As I said.....24 hours and enjoy the pain!

yea not knowing the route kind of stops one setting much goals. But to finish in 24 hours is a must. I don't recall having a warm / dry GC yet.

[Zapf]

BTW is anyone doing pratice rides from Auckland either this Friday / Sat?

[Hitcher]

yea not knowing the route kind of stops one setting much goals. But to finish in 24 hours is a must. I don't recall having a warm / dry GC yet.

Three years ago was perfect (the Fields Track one). No wind, full moon up at night. God in his heaven. Just magic!

[insomnia01]

yea not knowing the route kind of stops one setting much goals. But to finish in 24 hours is a must. I don't recall having a warm / dry GC yet.

I'm aware of the route changing every year & not knowing where we are going is part of the reason we are there to begin with, what I was wanting to know is do you set any goals based on your particular performance from the prevoius years event that you wish to better this time around?

Personally I endeavour to better my previous time ( even with the route changing )

[insomnia01]

I'm aware of the route changing every year & not knowing where we are going is part of the reason we are there to begin with, what I was wanting to know is do you set any goals based on your particular performance from the prevoius years event that you wish to better this time around?

Personally I endeavour to better my previous time ( even with the route changing )

last years event was a cracker & my time was looking very sub 20's, but looking over coopers beach with a full moon nigh in the sky was awesome!!!

[banditrider]

Motel? Take the blue pill!(is it a nice motel? Spa? vacancies?)

http://www.creel.co.nz/


Just out of interest ..... of those that are attending the GC this year & have completed past events, do you have any goals for this years event??


The goal is to finish within 24 hours.


What he said!

[Wiki Drifter]

Thanks Rusty, got the letter today. Will be heading out in group 9. :cool:

[Gibbo13p]

That Rusty nuts website has blown its arse....when's this grand challenge again?

[KoroJ]

last years event was a cracker & my time was looking very sub 20's, but looking over coopers beach with a full moon nigh in the sky was awesome!!!

I don't recall any moon, just downpours, gales, squalls and slip-slidy roads, struggling to get off the bike, getting badges, awesome feed and epic tales.

[RiderInBlack]

Just out of interest ..... of those that are attending the GC this year & have completed past events, do you have any goals for this years event??
Yep:

Not getting lost.
Getting back in one piece.
And enjoy the ride:Punk:

[Gremlin]

That Rusty nuts website has blown its arse....when's this grand challenge again?
next weekend :mellow:

guess I will win a prize for newest bike (do we get prizes? :shifty:)... thursday before GC it will be 2 weeks old. Feels like I have had it muuuuch longer

[Zapf]

Anyone want to join me for a run tonight?

Something like

AK -> Tauranga -> Roto -> Ham -> AK

PM me or txt me 029 241 0185

[Gibbo13p]

next weekend :mellow:

guess I will win a prize for newest bike (do we get prizes? :shifty:)... thursday before GC it will be 2 weeks old. Feels like I have had it muuuuch longer


Get my new oldish CBR1000 tomorrow sort of same boat but not lol

cheers don't think I'll make it this year

[puddy]

I'm aware of the route changing every year & not knowing where we are going is part of the reason we are there to begin with, what I was wanting to know is do you set any goals based on your particular performance from the prevoius years event that you wish to better this time around?

Personally I endeavour to better my previous time ( even with the route changing )
Planning to get to the start,do it in 24 hours, then planning to get home safely! Actually, having trouble getting to the start line.
Seems like every time I plan to do a faster one, it's even slower, and when i think I'll just cruise, I end up going faster! Who knows......

[puddy]

I don't recall any moon, just downpours, gales, squalls and slip-slidy roads, struggling to get off the bike, getting badges, awesome feed and epic tales.
That's all I remember.

[Hitcher]

I need a volunteer to TXT me the route this Friday evening. I am already suffering withdrawal symptoms...

[Taz]

I remember cruising at 180 on the straights south of dargaville :)

[Highlander]

I need a volunteer to TXT me the route this Friday evening. I am already suffering withdrawal symptoms...

If someone does, can you flick it to me or post it in here?

Will be thinking of you guys spending the WHOLE weekend riding while I'm office bound. :angry2:

[RiderInBlack]

I remember the 19th GC as being an awesome Night run with the Full Moon. Did good time overnight on that one. Looks like it will be another Full Moon run this Weekend. Will be down ta the weather. Then again it's not a real GC without the rain:oi-grr::dodge:

[banditrider]

I remember the 19th GC as being an awesome Night run with the Full Moon. Did good time overnight on that one. Looks like it will be another Full Moon run this Weekend. Will be down ta the weather. Then again it's not a real GC without the rain:oi-grr::dodge:

If it's a night like tonight (well where I am anyway) then it'll be awesome! 3 more days at work...

[Lee Rusty]

I don't recall any moon, just downpours, gales, squalls and slip-slidy roads, struggling to get off the bike, getting badges, awesome feed and epic tales.

but you would have to go hard to beat a bloke a few years back that brought his new sling shot on the friday nite and ran it in on sat on the GC

or the 3 or 4 riders who have brought new bikes on the SCRR to finish the run because there start out bikes died on the way.

Thats dedication.

[Highlander]

Or Shafty who convinced Oamaru Honda to lend him a bike out of their shop so he could get to Bluff to finish the Southern Cross while they rebuilt the radiator from his ST1300. They only charged him for the repair, not the Bike Hire.

[puddy]

I need a volunteer to TXT me the route this Friday evening. I am already suffering withdrawal symptoms...
A PM is on the way!

[xgnr]

I put this spreadsheet with a graph together last year to see if you are above or below the line depending on the Time or the distance run.

Print it out and put it on your tank bag.

Handy when the brain is a bit numb and you want to check on how you are going for 1609km in 24 Hours.

Of course some of us might be using GPS's :laugh:

Not my original idea I might add.:not:

Cheers

Stu

[insomnia01]

I put this spreadsheet with a graph together last year to see if you are above or below the line depending on the Time or the distance run.

Print it out and put it on your tank bag.

Handy when the brain is a bit numb and you want to check on how you are going for 1609km in 24 Hours.

Of course some of us might be using GPS's :laugh:

Not my original idea I might add.:not:

Cheers

Stu


I've used this format on similar events & they are a huge help at about the half way point when the mind tends to be abit slow on it, just had a quick look at the Met service long range weather forecast & it's looking like we may have a clean run :Punk::clap:

[Lee Rusty]

I've used this format on similar events & they are a huge help at about the half way point when the mind tends to be abit slow on it, just had a quick look at the Met service long range weather forecast & it's looking like we may have a clean run :Punk::clap:

Showers are forcast for most ares of the NI for Sat and Sun

Pack your wets - the rain I ordered will come to pass - but probably not torrents of the stuff

LR

[Taz]

A little rain never hurt anyone...... Just ask Noah :lol:

[puddy]

the Met service long range weather forecast & it's looking like we may have a clean run :Punk::clap:
CRAP! Don't jinx it!:girlfight:

[RiderInBlack]

OK, last Post for me before the GC. Will be away from the PC until Monday. Those Leaving AK tomorrow at 4pm, could ya text me the meeting point in AK on 027 4534020. If I get no text, I will assume that it was Papa Autobahn @ 4pm sharp, and will fuel there. If ya not there before 4pm, I will assume that I am waiting for noone and head off.
Looking forward ta ride with all ya nutters. See ya there.

Doug (The Rider In Black).

PS: Those used ta seeing me on "Roxanne" (the Honda CBR1000FL), I am now on "Zena" (The Suzuki GSX1400K7 with a black "Bra" & "G-string"). http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/picture.php?albumid=567&pictureid=5320

[insomnia01]

Showers are forcast for most ares of the NI for Sat and Sun

Pack your wets - the rain I ordered will come to pass - but probably not torrents of the stuff

LR

Showers don't compare to what we had to put up with last year heading through Akld/Northland, heres hoping that the winds don't pickp like last year

[Hitcher]

The forecast for the North Island this weekend looks pretty darned good. Mutter, mumble...

[DougieNZ]

I'm not going this year either Hitcher... talk about withdrawl syptoms.

But last year with the Southern Cross, GC, SI 1000km Ride and Chatto Creek 1000 Miler I had a good year!

Good luck to all you guys and gals going this weekend!

[Lee Rusty]

see you guys and girls in Turangi

RideSafe all

LR

[Blackbird]

Best wishes all:Punk: If the route includes Coro Peninsula and anyone strikes trouble, I have a trailer, food and warm bed!

[banditrider]

Showers don't compare to what we had to put up with last year heading through Akld/Northland, heres hoping that the winds don't pickp like last year

You got that right! Looks like we might get some weather tomorrow on the way up but she might be coming right on Saturday. Can't wait, leaving Palmy about 1:30ish. Quiet ride up, scrutineering and then taking it easy before the off is the order of the day.

[Taz]

See you all tomorrow or saturday......

[RiderInBlack]

Well congrats ta those that made it. There was 28 that pull out on the GC. A lot of them regulars. I was one of them. Will give ya the details later when I have time. The short of it was it was a good hard ride and 1200km in I got to tied and running late. Pulle cause I didn't want ta be a truck ornament.

Thanks again ta the Rusties for one hell of a ride.

[scorpious]

whats the 2008 grand challenge? Someone put it in the upcoming events.

:wari:sounds like fun. how do I join?

[xgnr]

whats the 2008 grand challenge? Someone put it in the upcoming events.

:wari:sounds like fun. how do I join?

Here is the website for the Rusty Nuts. Check out the link to future rides.

http://www.rustynuts.co.nz

Cheers

Stu

[Hitcher]

whats the 2008 grand challenge? Someone put it in the upcoming events.

sounds like fun. how do I join?

You've missed this year's. Next year's will be the weekend before Labour Weekend, starting from Turangi on the Saturday afternoon.

[scorpious]

Here is the website for the Rusty Nuts. Check out the link to future rides.

http://www.rustynuts.co.nz

Cheers

Stu

cheers.......

[xgnr]

Got home at about 2 and have spent the last 2 hours trying to (successfully) get my top-box open (long story... how do loose items get tangled around locking devices by themselves??)

Anyways, as RIB posted it was a bloody hard ride with much more time pressure than last year. The route was tortuous with a couple of nasty tracks to add to the "challenge".

Weather was marginal but coulda been worse. Some reported sleet on the Desert Rd (it was 1degree when I went through but I suspect the fast ones hit the yukky stuff) :cold:

When I checked my run rate it was marginal all the way with little room for any contingency for getting lost (which was very easy to do) repairing flat tyres or relaxed stops.

Glad to have done it and will try to put a ride report together soon after :zzzz::-)

p.s. nice to meet a number of KB members :2thumbsup

Stu

[Taz]

another excellent GC. Cary, I and shane left at 3:12 and finished at 10:58am with 4 hours to spare. A bit more tight stuff this year but only took us a little longer. The key is to keep a good pace and keep your stops to the absolute minimum. Awesome ride home today.
Andy.

[Taz]

p.s. nice to meet a number of KB members :2thumbsup

Stu

Nice to meet you too Stu. Was a good ride.

[banditrider]

Well congrats ta those that made it. There was 28 that pull out on the GC. A lot of them regulars. I was one of them. Will give ya the details later when I have time. The short of it was it was a good hard ride and 1200km in I got to tied and running late. Pulle cause I didn't want ta be a truck ornament.

Thanks again ta the Rusties for one hell of a ride.

Top marks for not becoming a hood ornament - pulling out was on my mind a couple of times for basically same reason. I was feeling decidedly crook at times but came right after a rest stop at daybreak. No sense in crashing out cause you're knackered.

It was a challenge this year...

[xgnr]

Goldwings don't carry spare tyres... much to my surprise :laugh:

This puncture was caused by a piece of bone. Go figure.

Best news was that the GW had a pump as an accessory... and it was in daylight and fine weather.

[insomnia01]

Top marks for not becoming a hood ornament - pulling out was on my mind a couple of times for basically same reason. I was feeling decidedly crook at times but came right after a rest stop at daybreak. No sense in crashing out cause you're knackered.

It was a challenge this year...

the nightshift from waipukurau to masterton caught a few people out I hear & then to contend with drunken youths on the streets of masterton was heavy..:nono: I found heaven at the Wild bean cafe in Taihape I forget how many " SHOTS " I asked the lady to put in my coffee but it did the trick alright:apint::headbang::shit:

[mangell6]

Goldwings don't carry spare tyres... much to my surprise :laugh:

This puncture was caused by a piece of bone. Go figure.

Best news was that the GW had a pump as an accessory... and it was in daylight and fine weather.

So that explains why someone was on the ground looking at the back of the bike when we rode past.

-- RIB --

I wonder if it was the pie you ate at Waioru that caused you to get sleepy, you looked reasonably awake when you left us.

Was great fun and a definite challange.

For those entrepid people ther is always the Southern Cross ride in March 09 . . . . .

[banditrider]

For those entrepid people ther is always the Southern Cross ride in March 09 . . . . .

See you there...

[bryce]

i had heaps of fun,was 2hr 5m ahead by masterton 4 hr + by roto vages.before the gn gave up,it took me just over 4 hr to get it running and made it back with 10 min to spear .desert road was fine when i went through at 3 till my lights had to go out or the motor would die ,it took me 8-10 ks before i remembered i had a torch .would have fin in 19 .5 hr .7th bike on the road.broke down 7:05 waited till 9 ,4 the next bike to till same one i was out.a big thanks to tom 4 helping me get going and loaning a stranger his new battery charger its in the mail.and thanks to the rusty that helped find the rear brake light switch as it got rid of the problem .thanks to all the bikes that let me through from te kuiti to nationl park and sorry to the two that just about didn,t .thank the rusty crew a realy cool ride ,loved the bit around waitomo,and i didn,t no i had ridin 52 10 or 20 times but never north to south a totally dif road i had no idear where the hair pins where,

[bryce]

i had heaps of fun,was 2hr 5m ahead by masterton 4 hr + by roto vages.before the gn gave up,it took me just over 4 hr to get it running and made it back with 10 min to spear .desert road was fine when i went through at 3 till my lights had to go out or the motor would die ,it took me 8-10 ks before i remembered i had a torch .would have fin in 19 .5 hr .7th bike on the road.broke down 7:05 waited till 9 ,4 the next bike to till same one i was out.a big thanks to tom 4 helping me get going and loaning a stranger his new battery charger its in the mail.and thanks to the rusty that helped find the rear brake light switch as it got rid of the problem .thanks to all the bikes that let me through from te kuiti to nationl park and sorry to the two that just about didn,t .thank the rusty crew a realy cool ride ,loved the bit around waitomo,and i didn,t no i had ridin 52 10 or 20 times but never north to south a totally dif road i had no idear where the hair pins where,

[Forest]

Goldwings don't carry spare tyres... much to my surprise :laugh:

This puncture was caused by a piece of bone. Go figure.

Best news was that the GW had a pump as an accessory... and it was in daylight and fine weather.

I got there just as the GW rider was pumping up his tyre.

Someone gave him a tyre plug. So he repaired the flat on the side of the road, pumped it up, and continued onward.

[Forest]

i had heaps of fun,was 2hr 5m ahead by masterton 4 hr + by roto vages.before the gn gave up,it took me just over 4 hr to get it running and made it back with 10 min to spear .desert road was fine when i went through at 3 till my lights had to go out or the motor would die ,it took me 8-10 ks before i remembered i had a torch .would have fin in 19 .5 hr .7th bike on the road.broke down 7:05 waited till 9 ,4 the next bike to till same one i was out.a big thanks to tom 4 helping me get going and loaning a stranger his new battery charger its in the mail.and thanks to the rusty that helped find the rear brake light switch as it got rid of the problem .thanks to all the bikes that let me through from te kuiti to nationl park and sorry to the two that just about didn,t .thank the rusty crew a realy cool ride ,loved the bit around waitomo,and i didn,t no i had ridin 52 10 or 20 times but never north to south a totally dif road i had no idear where the hair pins where,

You are a legend! :first:

I was bloody impressed that you managed to get the GN back to Turangi given the challenges you faced.

[xgnr]

I got there just as the GW rider was pumping up his tyre.

Someone gave him a tyre plug. So he repaired the flat on the side of the road, pumped it up, and continued onward.

Yeah me and a guy on a Honda ST1300 had a wee training session together with him on how to plug a tyre with miscellaneous parts from half used kits. He had his own but it was weird US thing.

THEN the fun began with working out how to fix the puncture (repair by committee is always interesting)
Worked ok, when we headed away the pump was going with no leaks and he had 20PSI and rising.

Does anyone know if he made it on time?

Cheers

Stu

[Cary]

Although I finished in good time I found Andy's pace a little hot at times and eased back on occasion. Didn't have any close calls or anything and enjoyed all the ride.

Andy did most of the navigation and when we dropped back(GS's wern't made to go that fast in the cold,wet,dark Andy:clap:) The navagiation Shane and I did wasn't the best!

Good ride and looking forward to the next (with GPS!)

[xgnr]

Cant be arsed with more details just yet but gives you an idea of the tangled web