North Auckland Street Skills - NASS

[Big Dog]

Hi Phil, I haven't got a clue. Sorry to sound like a girl, but how do you tell?

Get a spray bottle with some soapy dishwater in it. For 500mls you want two teaspoons.

Go to the servo.

Fill up with air.

Go for 10 minute ride to get the tires warm and maximise the pressure ( or you can just put 5 -10lbs too much in.
Spray your dishwater liberally all over the tyre.
if it bubbles there is your leak.
IF it has not after a few minutes yeided a bubble roll forward and do the other half of the tyre.

Don't forget to test all of you spoke and rim seals, on the opposite half of the tyre.

If all else fails go to the tyre repairer. They can find and patch the smallest holes.

IF you find a nail or other obstruction and you decide to remove it your self, DON"T.
IF you still want to remove your nail or other obstruction yourself (because your a biker damn it!) do so out side your repairer with some spray handy to test the new seal. Reality is if you had a slow leak and you removed the obstruction you now have a fast leak. But at least you are already at the repair shop so you don't have to pay for a tow or someone to come out.

[Beth Stewart]

Thanks for that information. I have got a tube in my tyre. It was quite obvious when I had a good look and knew what to look for, thanks Hovel. I can't see any nails or anything so I am going to check my preasure at home, cold, and then see just how much preasure I am loosing over a week. I will also do the soapy water thing and see if there is anything showing up with that. It is my front wheel and it does have spokes where the back one is solid and it doesn't loose preasure. I will let you know how I get on. Thanks again.

[p.dath]

...you could try some pressure sensing valve caps.

http://tirepressurealert.com/

http://www.pressurezone.co.nz/


Now that is a great idea! I'm tempted myself.

[TOTO]

yea, and it doesn't look gay at all

[shah]

http://tirepressurealert.com/

http://www.pressurezone.co.nz/

actually Cycletreads sell them too, Beth.

i get mine from Accu-Pressure in the USA. have used them on my motorcycles, car and trailer in the past 2 years.

they work fine and are great value for money, but they're not 100% foolproof.

i've had two faulty ones. luckily i noticed the flat before leaving home (pre-ride check!):yes:. no problem, just pump up and replace the safety caps. not so nice though if the flat occurs when you're kilometres away from home or the nearest garage.

[retro asian]

Warning, incredibly shameless marketing plug follows:

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Just arrived in today, we have stock of the very cool waterproof casing.

The casing has a generic tripod mount on the bottom, and it comes with two new mounting accessories.

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I'll have a case on me tonight, ask me if you'd like to check it out in person.

Cheers,
James

[Clean_up]

looks like a nice night tonight, see you all at westgate at 6:30 :)
bringing the mrs as pillion also tonight :)

[Clean_up]

What an awesome night. The weather was PERFECT!!! Shame it wasn't a bigger turn out.
One of the local motorcycle Police Officers came down and gave us some REALLY good tips, had a big chat to us about cornering etc, it was REALLY good value tonight.
The very kind officer also said that he and his colleagues would try to make it down more regularly :woohoo:
Hope to see more of you next week, rain, hail or shine!

[Sharry]

It was a nice fine night, a bit chilly on the way home.... but I have the blanky turned on now :yes:

Sure was a shame that so many missed out on a very good night with a local bike cop sharing his wealth of information on cornering and riding in general :woohoo:
See ya all next week for more enlightened fun

[hanham]

Fellow red street triple owner, trying to buy the carbon fibre tank pad but the one holeshot has looks completely different to the one you have on your bike & also to picture on the triumph website. Any chance you could tell the part number from your receipt. Ta.

[emerald]

ZA9720104 Thanks to everyone on Thursday who went along on the ride. I really enjoyed it and learnt so much. Andrew.

[hctseng]

God I miss riding with you guys so much !!! will be joining the group from next week, with my camera of course XD

[p.dath]

The weather is very bad, and the MET department has issued a severe storm warning and a high wind warning for tonight.

I think in the interests of safety we should consider cancelling tonight ...

Your thoughts.

[p.dath]

Just checked the MET web site.

Currently Auckland is experiencing wind from the south west at 46 km/h, gusting to 63 km/h. Being hit on a 250cc bike side on with wind gusts up to 63 km/h will be challenging.

[Honor3]

Do you reckon people will still meet for a theory night?

[p.dath]

Do you reckon people will still meet for a theory night?

I'd consider going myself, but I'm not sure how many learners (who are restricted to 70km/h) would want to ride out to a theory night in wind gusts of 63 km/h.

[Honor3]

I meant to meet by car as I heard that sometimes theres a theory night when the weather is too bad.

[thehovel]

There is a rummour going around that an official officer(on a bike) is going to turn up. Riders that are unsure of how to handle wind most of the short ride is tucked down in the valleys and the wind will drop at sun set (I Hope) but you make the choice whether to ride or not. ALWAYS RIDE IN YOUR COMFORT ZONE some times it pays to extend it a little. Sport bikes with large fairings will be more affected, A knee sticking out on the windward side of the bike does wonders to stabilises the bike.....Regards Richard PS NASS is on EVERY Wednessday

[p.dath]

Ok, I'll be there. I'm sick of being inside anyway.

[TOTO]

I'm gonna be there too :wings:

[GOONR]

Just checked the MET web site.

Currently Auckland is experiencing wind from the south west at 46 km/h, gusting to 63 km/h. Being hit on a 250cc bike side on with wind gusts up to 63 km/h will be challenging.

HAHA, I went over the bridge on my 250 this morning, it was erm, interesting. Still have to ride home but it's calmed down a hellava lot now.

[TOTO]

Epic night. Some little taste of the fun that police get to enjoy every now and then :killingme

Looking forward to these guys joining us again

[Beth Stewart]

Epic night. Some little taste of the fun that police get to enjoy every now and then :killingme

Looking forward to these guys joining us again

Hi everyone, I heard you gutsy ones were out there last night and have a lot of respect for you riding out in that. Hope to be joining you all again soon. Daylight savings starts this weekend.Thanks for your advice about my tyres have checked for nails etc and all clear. Will look into those valve preasure things. Have been working more days lately and with the weather my Sporty has been having a rest. Also flew down to Chch last weekend to see the quake damage. Best wishes to all in Chch still dealing with aftershocks and cleanup.

[p.dath]

With the Police potentially offering to help NASS we need to have a think about what we would like the Police to do for us. I am quite keen to get training assistance from the Police. From my perspective it means we get access to some highly trained very experienced motorcycle riders, and in particular, Heath used to be a motorcycle instructor. From the Police perspective they get to do some PR and present a human face to the "force", and chances are, by investing time and resources in training new riders now they wont be investing time and resources investigating new rider accidents.

Heath (hope that is how he spells his name) has put forward that he feels training works better if you have a car park session first followed by a ride - which is the complete opposite of how we do it now.

I do quite like having a ride first. It relaxes me, puts me in a good mood, and it allows us to pick up the people who start in West Auckland as well. But that is my personal opinion. What do others think? There is nothing preventing us finishing with a ride either (althouh I personally think if we did this it should be a short ride).

The next thing to consider is the duration of the session. We need to make sure we finish well in time so that those on a restricted licence can be home by 10pm. Also part of NASS (for me at least) is the social time after the session which is currently held at Bar Africa, and you need to consider the closing time of the kitchen. Typically this was used to discuss things further, but the Police said they can't enter a bar in there uniforms on this basis.

I quite like the current 7:30 to 8:30 car park session my self. So personally I'd like to stick to a single hour of training.

Perhaps we could do 45 minutes of car park and 15 minutes of post car park ride instead of just 60 minutes in the car park? The Albany mega centre itself is comprised of a big loop with many round abouts. Perhaps even just a ride around the mega-centre loop would suffice. Although only 50km/h roading there are still plenty of opportunities for gentle counter-steering (remember this is for learners), breaking, cornering, obersarvational awareness, changing gears, etc.


It would be great for everyone interested to express there desires, and I'll pass on the URL to this forum so the Police can take a read as well.

[MarkH]

With the Police potentially offering to help NASS we need to have a think about what we would like the Police to do for us. I am quite keen to get training assistance from the Police. From my perspective it means we get access to some highly trained very experienced motorcycle riders, and in particular, Heath used to be a motorcycle instructor.

Wow! That is really cool, I might have to start coming along a bit more often. Especially with daylight savings starting this weekend and the weather should be getting better soon as well.

To do the car park first and then the ride second would be possible I suppose, but everyone would have to meet in Albany to do the carpark part and then ride to umm, somewhere after that, then Bar Africa wouldn't work out well. I kinda think the current way works out well with all the guys 'n' gals that are keen on a ride meeting at one location and then riding to where the car park is for the practice of the skills.

Is something like this an option:
7:00pm - leave Shell for the ride for those keen (others can turn up in Albany at 7:30 as always)
7:30pm - car park skills in Albany
8:30pm - after skills ride (ride from Albany in a loop back to Albany)
9:00pm - Bar Africa (for those not having to rush home before 10:00pm

This would mean 2 rides on the night - I'm not seeing a downside here.

[BoristheBiter]

Wow! That is really cool, I might have to start coming along a bit more often. Especially with daylight savings starting this weekend and the weather should be getting better soon as well.

To do the car park first and then the ride second would be possible I suppose, but everyone would have to meet in Albany to do the carpark part and then ride to umm, somewhere after that, then Bar Africa wouldn't work out well. I kinda think the current way works out well with all the guys 'n' gals that are keen on a ride meeting at one location and then riding to where the car park is for the practice of the skills.

Is something like this an option:
7:00pm - leave Shell for the ride for those keen (others can turn up in Albany at 7:30 as always)
7:30pm - car park skills in Albany
8:30pm - after skills ride (ride from Albany in a loop back to Albany)
9:00pm - Bar Africa (for those not having to rush home before 10:00pm

This would mean 2 rides on the night - I'm not seeing a downside here.

why go to bar Africa?
There are plenty of bars/cafe's/resturants in that area, or in most areas.

[Neon]

Might as well throw some other ideas in the mix too, reasoned debate welcomed naturally.

1. Starting time. I don't know about the rest of you but I've always felt starting a half hour earlier wouldn't hurt. People who come from town who finish at 5.30pm should still be able to make it comfortably to Westgate, and failing that could go direct to jail..er..Albany. That said, travel anywhere at that time is a bitch.

2. Ride start / end. The major problem with this is that it severely compromises the amount of time for carpark drills in the middle, particularly once everyone is rounded up. I appreciate that the rides are of value, but to be honest I have always felt I learned a LOT more from the carpark sessions than the rides (mainly due to lack of a dedicated instructor who is watching your every move). This was true even when I first started riding.

3. Location. Is there a compelling reason why meeting at Westgate in the first instance is better than meeting at say, a gas station at Albany? This would dramatically increase the amount of time available for carpark activities (people could even get started on warm ups immediately), and is just as good as Westgate as a starting point for longer rides (at the end of the evening for example).

I don't know. Even writing this I realise there are good arguments both ways, just thought it was worth discussing.

:chase:

[p.dath]

why go to bar Africa?
There are plenty of bars/cafe's/resturants in that area, or in most areas.

I don't think there are many open at 9pm though. I think any bar would be out because the Police don't want potential pictures of them being leaked to the press of holding meetings in bars - even if attending an official sanctioned function. It just looks bad.
Put it this way, if there was some major negative press that would be the end of it.

[p.dath]

1. Starting time. I don't know about the rest of you but I've always felt starting a half hour earlier wouldn't hurt. People who come from town who finish at 5.30pm should still be able to make it comfortably to Westgate, and failing that could go direct to jail..er..Albany. That said, travel anywhere at that time is a bitch.

I think quite a few learners use cars for their day to day travel. So it means if you finish at 5:30pm you drive home. Takes you a good 30 minutes at that time of the day. Then you get changed, and jump on your bike and hea dout to Westgate. Now it's 6:30pm.

Plus in summer it really is a beautifull ride. But having said that, you are right, and we should re-examine all the options.

I think the NASS nights are fun, and I would hate to see al the fun squeezed out of it. :)


2. Ride start / end. The major problem with this is that it severely compromises the amount of time for carpark drills in the middle, particularly once everyone is rounded up. I appreciate that the rides are of value, but to be honest I have always felt I learned a LOT more from the carpark sessions than the rides (mainly due to lack of a dedicated instructor who is watching your every move). This was true even when I first started riding.

We probably can't start using the car park any earlier than we are. We need to businesses to close and the car park to empty out before we can safely use it.


3. Location. Is there a compelling reason why meeting at Westgate in the first instance is better than meeting at say, a gas station at Albany? This would dramatically increase the amount of time available for carpark activities (people could even get started on warm ups immediately), and is just as good as Westgate as a starting point for longer rides (at the end of the evening for example).

We could always just meet at the car park - but like I say, I'm not sure we can start using the car park any earlier. We will only continue to have an understanding to use it while we don't drive customers away from the businesses.
Richard may be able to clarify this further, but we need to be carefull not to push the line too hard with the car park owners. I'd rather err on the side of caution on this one. Loosing the car park would be a blow.

When we can start to use the car park may be a pivotable factor. If we can't start using the car park earlier then we might as well have a ride beforehand for those that can turn up early enough.


I don't know. Even writing this I realise there are good arguments both ways, just thought it was worth discussing.

100% agree.

[Neon]

I think quite a few learners use cars for their day to day travel. So it means if you finish at 5:30pm you drive home. Takes you a good 30 minutes at that time of the day. Then you get changed, and jump on your bike and hea dout to Westgate. Now it's 6:30pm.

Fair point.


Plus in summer it really is a beautifull ride. But having said that, you are right, and we should re-examine all the options.

I think the NASS nights are fun, and I would hate to see al the fun squeezed out of it. :)

True that. It's quite an effort for some people to get there for the ride though with other committments - I suggest that there is some scope to make the whole thing a little more efficient from a gathering / briefing / riding perspective.


When we can start to use the car park may be a pivotable factor.

We have on occasion met up at the car park at 7pm to do cone drills, there are very few people around at this time. That said if it were a regular thing we would obviously need to obtain the appropriate clearances.

Now is certainly the time to talk about this stuff. It's learner season and there are bound to be loads of people thinking about coming along to NASS.

I'm keen to do some pre-NASS rides from Westgate before the meet up on a Wednesday night if people were keen. Can be learner friendly. I finish work quite early (like 4-4.30pm) so it could be a 4.30 or 5pm meet up at Westgate. PM me if you're interested. :scooter:

[BoristheBiter]

I don't think there are many open at 9pm though. I think any bar would be out because the Police don't want potential pictures of them being leaked to the press of holding meetings in bars - even if attending an official sanctioned function. It just looks bad.
Put it this way, if there was some major negative press that would be the end of it.

There are plenty on the other side of the mall 3 i think, 2 down in Albany village (3 if you include the dodgy pub) and the Albany tavern just past the bridge.
3 at the other end of William Pickkering so there are quite a few to choose from.
I was not meaning change but if it takes 30 min to all get there maybe somewhere closer so more learning time.
As for the police in uniform it is very frowned upon, they even can't sit in a cafe to have lunch.

[p.dath]

There are plenty on the other side of the mall 3 i think, 2 down in Albany village (3 if you include the dodgy pub) and the Albany tavern just past the bridge.
3 at the other end of William Pickkering so there are quite a few to choose from.
I was not meaning change but if it takes 30 min to all get there maybe somewhere closer so more learning time.
As for the police in uniform it is very frowned upon, they even can't sit in a cafe to have lunch.

Oh I see, I got the wrong end of the stick. It is a 5 minute ride from the car park to Bar Africa. It is quiet road, with some gentle twisting corners at the start (perfect for learners at the end of the night).

I was thinking it would be nice to have a venue the Police could join us at. Sometimes when it is pissing with rain it is just nicer to have an indoor practical session.

[MarkH]

I think quite a few learners use cars for their day to day travel.

What, commute by car? That's crazy - they should definitely hone their skills and NASS then and switch to the 10x better commuting vehicles (bikes). Commuting by car pissed me off so much that after a year of having both vehicles to choose from I sold the car because it just wasn't being used.

[p.dath]

What, commute by car? That's crazy - they should definitely hone their skills and NASS then and switch to the 10x better commuting vehicles (bikes). Commuting by car pissed me off so much that after a year of having both vehicles to choose from I sold the car because it just wasn't being used.

I'd like to return to commutting by motorbike, but alas I have four children to drop off and pick up from 3 different schools most days now. Some days I spend up to 3 hours doing this essential service in the car.

Sigh.

[MarkH]

why go to bar Africa?
There are plenty of bars/cafe's/resturants in that area, or in most areas.

My suggested schedule works fine with whatever bar/café/restaurant you wish to substitute - the name of bar was so totally not the point of my post and I only used Bar Africa in that list because it is the current after NASS haunt.

Obviously the police in uniform would not head there and those who want to head off home before 10pm would often skip the ride to the bar. If there were enough guys keen on the idea of heading to BK or whatever so the police could join in on the after NASS discussion group then obviously it could be changed to that.

Another idea could be to have a group leave Shell Westgate at 6:45pm in good weather for a longer ride and a 2nd group leave at 7pm for a shorter ride. I only mention this because there have been grumblings in this thread in the past about riders turning up at Albany at 7:30pm to find no one there. In the Summer time a longer ride is often nice so a 45min ride could be done by those who can start 15min earlier without cutting into the 1 hour car park session or leaving those at the car park wondering where everyone is.

[thehovel]

Starting earlier.........been tried didn't work
2 Having the ride at the end ..............Riding in the dark for an extra 6 months ....I don't think so
3 At the moment one bike cop is happy to ASSIST us......Great we'll see if he is as keen next winter
4 NASS is not broken don't fix it to death

Since no one else has been turning up each week for the last 5years (except holidays or sick) I think I should have the last word. It isn't in stone ,(hard mud maybe) I have an open mind,We won't be rushed in to any thing.

Regards Richard

[TOTO]

I think Richard has a point. you don't go changing all things at once. You may tweak something and see if it works better or worse, re-assess etc. Change too dramatic to the structure and it will get too confusing and people simply wont be bothered coming over.

another thing is, that the police guys, haven't yet seen most of the stuff we do, and now going onto a day light savings and hopefully bettwer weather, they can see some of the excersises and suggest impovements etc. At the end of the day it is our night, and it is up to us to make it as interesting as possible as well as helpful. You all know that if it turned into theory only nights, with strict sceddule, it will feel too much like school/work/marriage (call it what you like). I think if the structure of the NASS nights stayed more "fluidy" (is that a word ?) then we can sort of work around what people feel like it is of interest to them and interests catered for better.

2c

[emerald]

Last night was my 3rd ride with the NASS group. Each week has been a new learning experience. The police teaching has been good. Looking forward to the on the bike learning skills part again. Great people and the snacks and a drink finish off an enjoyable evening.

[zealchick]

I really like how NASS is structured from what i gather its been great fo a long time :-)
But just a suggestion, if people think it would be more beneficial to do a carpark session first then maybe the car park behind Westgate. Its pretty well empty by 6. any who just my 2 cents worth :-)

[MarkH]

I think Richard's point about doing the ride after the car park = riding after dark, should not be ignored. Yes, there may be benefits to doing some exercises first and then going for a ride - and on a Saturday or Sunday skills training thingy this might be a good idea. But on a Wednesday night it probably does make a lot of sense to do the ride first while the light is there and then do the car park exercises after that.

[p.dath]

I've had some feedback from the Police. I have paraphrased the responses here.

The Police want to re-assure everyone they don't want to hi-jack or take over NASS. They just want to assist.

They have expressed a desire to do more practical exercises, as opposed to standing and talking like last time. I'm sure everyone likes this idea better.

They have expressed that while "on duty" they need to be actively working to ensure the safety of the public. So that means spending anytime at a pub/cafe is out.

[p.dath]

Taking on board what everyone has said (especially Richard), I think the desire is to keep the current schedule as is.

There are restrictions on when people can get there, when we can use the car park, when people have to be home by, and a general "vibe" and social element that has formed over the years to produce the current sucessfull working formula (sucessfull in that people regulalrly turn up).

[MarkW]

Interesting discussions.....

NASS needs to be fun and flexible to work well as the vastly different skills levels and attendance abilities of those who come along would make a structured program very very difficult.

The existing structure has evolved over time and is always going to be a compromise. I know that both Richard and I almost always ask if there is anything that participants would like covered that night and if so we endeavoured to cover the requests. No requests is plan b and not a problem.

Longer rides are great fun and can be good experience but can be daunting for a brand new rider and some who come have less than a weeks riding experience. But then some of you have been coming for more than two years and the short ride can be boring. In tribute to all of the long time attenders invariably you come for the ride, no matter how slow or sedate it may be, help with route marking and give encouragement to the newer riders.

Extra instructors in any shape or form are always welcome and it is always a pleasure to see the police along. The Police must get sick and tired of seeing some of the silly things that happen on the road and to come along to an informal gathering of people who are there to improve their own riding skills must also encourage the Police that not everyone is an idiot out there.

From an instructors point of view regular attendance at NASS is a commitment and Richard's has been huge. Rain, hail, wind or nice and fine if he can possibly make it he does. Enthusiasm, dedication and the ability to make progress with all riders whilst keeping the event fun is no small task.

Celebrate the variances and enjoy the differences - after all if we were all the same life would be very booring!


Regards to you all

Mark W

[zealchick]

Yay the sun is shining :-) and we have more daylight! see you all tonight :-)

[Morcs]

Im not being critical of what you guys do ( i was involved with AWNMR when it started years ago), but id say you guys need to do less theory, more riding riding.
You can learn more from a difficult 30 minute ride at a reasonable pace than weeks of carpark stuff... gotta put the theory stuff into practice on the road.

[p.dath]

Im not being critical of what you guys do ( i was involved with AWNMR when it started years ago), but id say you guys need to do less theory, more riding riding.
You can learn more from a difficult 30 minute ride at a reasonable pace than weeks of carpark stuff... gotta put the theory stuff into practice on the road.

The session begins with a 30 minute ride.

[Morcs]

The session begins with a 30 minute ride.

The pattern in the old days used to be, noobs would do quite a few of the training nights, when their confidence was up a bit, they'd step up to the ATNR. Obviously the ATNR has died a quiet death so thats not the case anymore.

What im getting at, is being in a ride with lots of people much faster than you teaches you a lot - not only do you get to see lines etc.. (which arent all good) but you actually learn to ride your own ride - be it by trying to keep up with others beyong your comfort zone, and learning by screwing up, or learning the restraint not to do exactly that.

[zealchick]

Awesome ride tonight!! loving the extra daylight!!
Next weeks long range is looking exceptionally good!! see you all next week :-)

[GSXR Trace]

so after having been riding this afternoon, i went to fill up at westgate before heading home, and there was a group of bikers still there! so thought it would be rude not to go say hi before heading home for assignment... well 3.5 hours later i finally got home... its gonna be a late night to finish assignment that is due tomorrow! but good ride boys! good to catch up! i really am glad to have tagged along... just gonna regret the lack of sleep tomorrow! haha

[Sharry]

Thanks for giving up your study time to spend with us tonight :yes: glad you enjoyed the ride. It twas nice to see you again.

[BoristheBiter]

The pattern in the old days used to be, noobs would do quite a few of the training nights, when their confidence was up a bit, they'd step up to the ATNR. Obviously the ATNR has died a quiet death so thats not the case anymore.

What im getting at, is being in a ride with lots of people much faster than you teaches you a lot - not only do you get to see lines etc.. (which arent all good) but you actually learn to ride your own ride - be it by trying to keep up with others beyong your comfort zone, and learning by screwing up, or learning the restraint not to do exactly that.

It's all fine and dandy to ride with faster riders, but unless they want to help you get better they just dissapear into the distance.

I also think you are wrong as like a few others have no problem going fast but need all the help in the world when going slow.

Other than the failure to keep to the time schedue, which only matters if your the only one at Albany, the frame work of the night seems to please most people.

If you want longer, faster rides there are plenty to choose from. well at least two.

[TOTO]

was great to catch up Trace :wings:

[Ntoxcated]

Obviously the ATNR has died a quiet death ...

Now that we are back in DST I think it will pick up again. Although, the weather doesn't look particularly flash for this evening. Might just be straight to the pub again :innocent:

[GSXR Trace]

haha yep was good to see ya all and catch up... but definitely a little sleep deprived today, but assignment was complete before i went to bed!

Hopefully will see you all out on rides soon (as long as we get more weather like yesterday.. what the hell happened to the sun today?)

[Clean_up]

Hey everyone, just got back from a really nice ride out to Piha, and had coffee at the Piha Cafe....really nice atmosphere :woohoo:. Was thinking maybe we could get a few of us together who could be keen for a ride out there on Saturday morning for brunch then a cruise back:scooter:? what do people think? Weather permitting:sunny: of course, Scenic drive can be a bit perilous at the best of times :wacko:.

[retro asian]

Cool to see NASS Team racing is going strong.

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[zealchick]

Cool to see NASS Team racing is going strong.

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Looking good guys and gals :-) Cheers for taking such great pictures:niceone:
Was an awesome day:woohoo::woohoo:

[p.dath]

Great pictures RA.

[new_kid]

Hey everyone, just got back from a really nice ride out to Piha, and had coffee at the Piha Cafe....really nice atmosphere :woohoo:. Was thinking maybe we could get a few of us together who could be keen for a ride out there on Saturday morning for brunch then a cruise back:scooter:? what do people think? Weather permitting:sunny: of course, Scenic drive can be a bit perilous at the best of times :wacko:.

Great idea, Count me in :yes:

[Clean_up]

Great idea, Count me in :yes:

You dont have much choice :love::msn-wink:

[R-Soul]

Hey everyone, just got back from a really nice ride out to Piha, and had coffee at the Piha Cafe....really nice atmosphere :woohoo:. Was thinking maybe we could get a few of us together who could be keen for a ride out there on Saturday morning for brunch then a cruise back:scooter:? what do people think? Weather permitting:sunny: of course, Scenic drive can be a bit perilous at the best of times :wacko:.

Sounds awesome- I am dying fro a ride, but not sure if I can get some time aout of teh house. Our new R-jnr is keeping me and wifey up nights, and wifey gets crabby when I mention any form of escape...

[Sharry]

Great idea, count me in for this one :banana: post it in the crew will ya.

Tats, you be so funny, like you could get out of it if ya tried to:lol:

[zealchick]

I just went went for a blast up old north rd ( any excuse to practice what i learnt on sunday :msn-wink: Its been re sealed :shit: so a bit slow at the begginning....until just after first round a bout just a heads up for the ride tomorrow night :) see you guys there

[Clean_up]

Great idea, count me in for this one :banana: post it in the crew will ya.

Tats, you be so funny, like you could get out of it if ya tried to:lol:

Already have ;)

[R-Soul]

I just went went for a blast up old north rd ( any excuse to practice what i learnt on sunday :msn-wink: Its been re sealed :shit: so a bit slow at the begginning....until just after first round a bout just a heads up for the ride tomorrow night :) see you guys there

So what have you been practising?

[zealchick]

So what have you been practising?

keeping my head up, looking forward and around the corners....as apposed to watching the road and inching around the corners lol
and trying to be a bit more consistent with my lines :-) had a really good ride :yes:

[Honor3]

Bringing another newbie tonight just got Learners last Tues and running bike in. :facepalm:Hoping to get to Westgate on time after work. :blink:

[imw-hornet]

Yea , looking good for tonight , let hope that there will be a good turn out again , i will also be bringing someone tonight :)

[sl8er4lyf]

would one class it as OTT to wear a 1pc to NASS? :scooter:

[rickstv]

would one class it as OTT to wear a 1pc to NASS? :scooter:

As Long as it's not a bathing suit. LOL
Rick.

[zealchick]

As Long as it's not a bathing suit. LOL
Rick.

only 2 piece bathing suits allowed??

[retro asian]

would one class it as OTT to wear a 1pc to NASS? :scooter:

It's been done before....mankini photos somewhere inside this thread .... :facepalm:

[ffirman]

Won't see you guys and gals tonight, but hope to catch up with some of you on Sat for the ride to Piha for Brunch.

I don't know yet if a time has been arranged to meet at Shell Westgate, but I would suggest 9-9:30 am on Sat.. Maybe leaving the Shell around 9:30 ish to have brunch around 10-10:30 arrive at the cafe.

Have a good time tonight, will be thinking of you all, as I watch the kids go, round and round and round and round and round.. on ice skates tonight.. :yes: We are all off to the iceskating ring tonight, so if I go out on the ice, I bet I will break something.. :facepalm:..

Enjoy tonight, and see you all next week.

Fran

[new_kid]

You dont have much choice :love::msn-wink:

Ehmmmm, you right, I'm your pillion :love:
Will be awesome ride out to Piha, hope the weather is good :sunny:

[new_kid]

Great idea, count me in for this one :banana: post it in the crew will ya.

Tats, you be so funny, like you could get out of it if ya tried to:lol:

He he, i think you are right Sharry :scratch:

[Beth Stewart]

Ha ha enjoying your banter! Had to do the pony club thing last night as it was the first one for the season. Can't wait to get together with you guys again. Maybe next week.

[R-Soul]

keeping my head up, looking forward and around the corners....as apposed to watching the road and inching around the corners lol
and trying to be a bit more consistent with my lines :-) had a really good ride :yes:

Nice!
10 char

[Sharry]

Yea , looking good for tonight , let hope that there will be a good turn out again , i will also be bringing someone tonight :)

LOL, dude you'r always looking good:cool:
You do ride a Honda after all :2thumbsup

And that was a cool little someone that you brought with you:yes:

[Clean_up]

Hey everyone, just got back from a really nice ride out to Piha, and had coffee at the Piha Cafe....really nice atmosphere :woohoo:. Was thinking maybe we could get a few of us together who could be keen for a ride out there on Saturday morning for brunch then a cruise back:scooter:? what do people think? Weather permitting:sunny: of course, Scenic drive can be a bit perilous at the best of times :wacko:.

Weather is looking promising.....come on people...this will be an awesome ride, and the cafe is really good, nice NICE food :corn::) not at all :sick: so lets go....
meet up at shell westgate at 9, leaving at 9:30.

[Devil]

One day i'll bother to introduce myself... one day.

Until then i'm the guy that turns up randomly every few months on the rather large BMW GS Adventure.

[R-Soul]

I was thwarted by grumpy wife (who had little sleep teh night before with new R- jnr).

aaaaah welll next time...

[p.dath]

Before I forget about it; I loved ridge road last week - but I made an error on one corner that I thought I would share with everyone, as new riders in particular may not have thought about it.

On one of the right hand turns I had leaned over enough that part of my body was protruding into the other lane. My bike was always on the left hand side of the road.

The danger was that if a car had come around the corner I could have been cleaned up.

It is not sufficient to have your bike on the correct side of the road - you have to have the entire package, including the rider, on the correct side of the road.

[rickstv]

Before I forget about it; I loved ridge road last week - but I made an error on one corner that I thought I would share with everyone, as new riders in particular may not have thought about it.

On one of the right hand turns I had leaned over enough that part of my body was protruding into the other lane. My bike was always on the left hand side of the road.

The danger was that if a car had come around the corner I could have been cleaned up.

It is not sufficient to have your bike on the correct side of the road - you have to have the entire package, including the rider, on the correct side of the road.

You weren't the only one. I was watching other riders on Ridge road that night too and their heads were over the center line on right handers too.

We should bring this up on Wednesday night.

Rick.

[TOTO]

should be a good day for it today.

[Ntoxcated]

should be a good day for it today.

To practice wet weather riding? It's not exactly persisting down here in Albany, but quite wet nonetheless :cold:

[BoristheBiter]

To practice wet weather riding? It's not exactly persisting down here in Albany, but quite wet nonetheless :cold:

It is persisting down here in Onehunga.

[p.dath]

I was thinking about something we could try doing on the ride before the car park session.

For more experienced riders, the NASS ride can be rather easy and so there isn't much need to bother with cornering lines. I find a good exercise to do is to pick two points on a corner, where you are going to start the corner from, and the apex point of the corner your tyre will touch.
Then you start applying cornering lines again, which is great for new riders to copy.

Here is an exercise for new riders. Experienced riders get used to looking at corners and adapting without even thinking about it. You need to develop these same techniques, so tonight as you approach every corner see if you can identify any of the below attributes of a corner. Don't worry about responding just yet - just see if you can start identifying what you are seeing.

Is the corner rising (aka up hill), falling, or flat?
Does the corner have negative or positive camber (or even flat)?
Does the corner have a constant radius, gets tighter, or does it open up?
Is there anything on the surface of the corner? e,g. Gravel on the outside, a pot hole, a shiny patch of seal, etc.



The trick to cornering is planning what you are going to do. And before you can effectively plan a corner you have to be able to "read it".

[p.dath]

Last night someone was talking about a competition run by TelstraClear to win a motorcycle. Daily prizes. Something like that.

Kind find it. Did I remember the details correctly?

[BoristheBiter]

Last night someone was talking about a competition run by TelstraClear to win a motorcycle. Daily prizes. Something like that.

Kind find it. Did I remember the details correctly?

http://www.jointhejourney.co.nz/mark.cfm

Is that the one??

[p.dath]

http://www.jointhejourney.co.nz/mark.cfm

Is that the one??

Yes - but it looks like you have to see the actual adverts to enter. Plus the hard questions looks really hard!

[RUSS]

http://www.tsoshop.co.uk/gempdf/TSO_Motorcycle_Roadcraft_Contents_Introduction.pdf

Well, the whole thing is better. I'll try to get a copy, loan it to Phil, who can plagerise it.

[hanham]

I ordered it off Amazon $24 NZ, will take a couple of weeks to get here (economy mail). CHeers

[Clean_up]

I ordered it off Amazon $24 NZ, will take a couple of weeks to get here (economy mail). CHeers

Hanham, did you ever type up the cards the police officer gave you? If so could you send them to me please?

[hanham]

Hi,

For those who want a copy of the Constable's notes, please send me your email address. Cheers.

[hanham]

Just to clarify, you have to send me an actual email address. I cant reply to your Kiwibiker messages & attach a word document. There is only an option to insert a link or attach image/video file. If someone can suggest a better way, I am open to suggestions.
Cheers

[p.dath]

Just to clarify, you have to send me an actual email address. I cant reply to your Kiwibiker messages & attach a word document. There is only an option to insert a link or attach image/video file. If someone can suggest a better way, I am open to suggestions.
Cheers

Why don't you just turn it into a PDF and attach it to a thread?

[Attis]

Hi just found this. Nicely filmed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkwGd9m2oX4

[p.dath]

Hi just found this. Nicely filmed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkwGd9m2oX4

Very impressive skills, but lets just say that the bike used wouldn't be very good as a road bike.

[Clean_up]

Auckland Rain Radar as at 5pm tonight, looks like we're in for an alright evening...see you all at shell soon :)

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=221740

[Ironclaw]

Why don't you copy paste the txt into this thread?

[p.dath]

I got a response today from Superintendent John Kelly for my formal request for motorbike highway patrol officers to help out at NASS.

He asked four questions (paraphrased).

1. Is the training area closed off. I'll say no, but that the car park is quiet at that time of the day, and that everyone already has at least a learners licence, and encountering the occasional vehicle adds an additional dynamic to the exercise.

2. Are driver licences checked, and are the conditions being adhered to . I'll say no, and that a lot of participants have only just got their licence and a 250cc or below bike. How would everyone feel if I offered to allow random licence checks? I don't think doing licence checks all the time is a good idea as it would take a lot of time. Alternatively, we could get people to fill out their drivers licence details on Richard's form when they come along for the first time.

3. Are there checks to make sure all motorcycles are safe and have a WOF. I'll say no, but that we do maintenance exercises and discuss machine related items on rainy days. We would discourage anyone from using a motorcycle that we felt put themselves or someone else at obvious risk.

4. Are there standards for safe clothing? I'll say there are no formal rules, but we try to lead by example and set safe attitudes, and those experienced riders always dress appropriately.

Superintendent John Kelly's concern seems to be (reading between the lines) is that if they officially support us they are effectively endorcing the training using the Police name, and the Police can be seen to be supporting illegal riders, etc.


Anyone care to share there thoughts before I write the reply?

[TOTO]

Your superintendent doenst care. its all a publisity stunt for him. the guys that care and want to help are his employees and nothing depends of them. your superintendant is just another cager, but with uniform.

[p.dath]

Your superintendent doenst care. its all a publisity stunt for him. the guys that care and want to help are his employees and nothing depends of them. your superintendant is just another cager, but with uniform.

I can only guarantee you one thing - if you don't ask you wont get anything.

Any what kind of publicity does he get for doing nothing? Yawn. Tired old argument that one Toto; and one without any substance.

And yes, his employees do want to help. But their superior is not keen on the idea, and John Kelly is that persons boss - the strategic road policing manager. I'm asking for help at a different place in the food chain.

[RUSS]

[QUOTE=TOTO;1129892955]its all a publisity stunt for him.

No publicity if he doesn't OK this. Like it or not he's the man to ya or na.

Nothing to stop the odd cop popping along as a social thing from time to time when shifts permit.

[R-Soul]

I got a response today from Superintendent John Kelly for my formal request for motorbike highway patrol officers to help out at NASS.

He asked four questions (paraphrased).

1. Is the training area closed off. I'll say no, but that the car park is quiet at that time of the day, and that everyone already has at least a learners licence, and encountering the occasional vehicle adds an additional dynamic to the exercise.

2. Are driver licences checked, and are the conditions being adhered to . I'll say no, and that a lot of participants have only just got their licence and a 250cc or below bike. How would everyone feel if I offered to allow random licence checks? I don't think doing licence checks all the time is a good idea as it would take a lot of time. Alternatively, we could get people to fill out their drivers licence details on Richard's form when they come along for the first time.

3. Are there checks to make sure all motorcycles are safe and have a WOF. I'll say no, but that we do maintenance exercises and discuss machine related items on rainy days. We would discourage anyone from using a motorcycle that we felt put themselves or someone else at obvious risk.

4. Are there standards for safe clothing? I'll say there are no formal rules, but we try to lead by example and set safe attitudes, and those experienced riders always dress appropriately.

Superintendent John Kelly's concern seems to be (reading between the lines) is that if they officially support us they are effectively endorcing the training using the Police name, and the Police can be seen to be supporting illegal riders, etc.


Anyone care to share there thoughts before I write the reply?

Reading between the lines, it seems that they will be throwing as much red tape at it as possible until it just does not seem worthwhile to us anymore. Maybe because they dont feel like helping, and feel like they have better things to do.

If the letter sounded like: "That sounds like a great idea and we will be there! but we must just make sure things are done legally." - that would sound like it MIGHT happen. The lack of enthusiasm sounds like the opposite.

[BoristheBiter]

I can only guarantee you one thing - if you don't ask you wont get anything.

Any what kind of publicity does he get for doing nothing? Yawn. Tired old argument that one Toto; and one without any substance.

And yes, his employees do want to help. But their superior is not keen on the idea, and John Kelly is that persons boss - the strategic road policing manager. I'm asking for help at a different place in the food chain.

Be very careful of what you tell him about what/when things are done.
Just look at what happened to the running club at Owera, it was stopped becuse they needed cones and traffic control wardens just to cross the Owera bridge.

Remember it is held in a public car park and normal rules apply, whether it is busy or not.

[MarkH]

I can only guarantee you one thing - if you don't ask you wont get anything.

I have to agree, it was worth asking to see what sort of response you would get - there wasn't any harm in trying.

But yeah, the result seems to be as TOTO eloquently put it:

Your superintendent doenst care. its all a publisity stunt for him. the guys that care and want to help are his employees and nothing depends of them. your superintendant is just another cager, but with uniform.

I think that the super-intendant only cares about shopping for flak pants, not road safety. His reply was basically "how well would my arse be covered if we did this, I don't want any flak hitting me if there is a problem". It did NOT strike me as "I'm dead keen to help riders be safer, lets get a couple of technicalities nailed down then we will see what we can do to help"

[thehovel]

You got more responce than I got from ACC.:whocares:

"Your doing a great job ,we are thinking of you":shutup:

Ulysses are running in to definition issues also. :shit::shit::facepalm: Regards Richard

[p.dath]

I had a meeting with Superintendent John Kelly today. He was kind enough to take me to a local cafe, and shouted me a cup of coffee while we discussed the request I made.
He took quite a few notes in his notebook during the course of the meeting.

There didn't seem to be any fundamental issues do with with NASS or how it is run. He seemed generally positive about the good work that NASS does, and I believe he can see the value that it provides.

I believe his primary concern was not with committing Police resources to help, but the potential fall out and damage to the Police brand in the event that an accident should happen, or if something "untoward" happened.

I attempted to assert that the Police would only be involved to assist, and not to run NASS, and that riders were personally responsible for themselves. I also reminded him of the positive PR that may result.

He said he will consult with his colleagues, and come back to me with an answer.

My impression is that there is a 60% chance he'll say yes.

[rickstv]

Maybe the police input could be confined to theory only. That way they can't be held responsible for someone dropping their bike and getting hurt. (If that is what they are worried about)

Nice night tonight by the looks, should be a good turnout.:woohoo: See you all there.

Rick

[JK12]

hope to see u guys later.

[p.dath]

I have had a response back from John Kelly at the Police now.

John has said the Police can participate in the car park session if:

The first time someone attends a check is done to verify they are licenced, and hold a licence suitable for the bike they are riding.
The first time someone attends a check is done to verify the bike has a warrant and is registered. There is also the implication that bikes should be continually maintained to WOF standard and licenced and be of a safe standard.
Riders wear safe clothing, meaning that at a minimum they comply with the legal requirements (aka, wear a motorcycle helmet). Without even asking John, I know he would like if riders were encouraged to wear reasonably protective gear as well (jacket, boots, gloves, etc).


If everyone feels this is ok, then I can let John know to give the go ahead.

Personally, I find the conditions acceptable, and it will provide access to very experienced mentors.

[BoristheBiter]

I have had a response back from John Kelly at the Police now.

John has said the Police can participate in the car park session if:

The first time someone attends a check is done to verify they are licenced, and hold a licence suitable for the bike they are riding.
The first time someone attends a check is done to verify the bike has a warrant and is registered. There is also the implication that bikes should be continually maintained to WOF standard and licenced and be of a safe standard.
Riders wear safe clothing, meaning that at a minimum they comply with the legal requirements (aka, wear a motorcycle helmet). Without even asking John, I know he would like if riders were encouraged to wear reasonably protective gear as well (jacket, boots, gloves, etc).


If everyone feels this is ok, then I can let John know to give the go ahead.

Personally, I find the conditions acceptable, and it will provide access to very experienced mentors.

Didn't we allready have that??

[p.dath]

Didn't we allready have that??

Richard always turns up. But we don't have any other very experienced riders that turn up all the time.

This will give us another very experienced mentor that will turn up every time that are on shift.

Plus it is good to have the viewpoint of more people. While experienced riders will often know all the tricks, sometimes they might overlook something that seems simple to them while someone else will present it with their view. Or sometimes learners will respond better to one mentor than another.

[BoristheBiter]

Richard always turns up. But we don't have any other very experienced riders that turn up all the time.

This will give us another very experienced mentor that will turn up every time that are on shift.

Plus it is good to have the viewpoint of more people. While experienced riders will often know all the tricks, sometimes they might overlook something that seems simple to them while someone else will present it with their view. Or sometimes learners will respond better to one mentor than another.

fair enough, please carry on.

[Sharry]

That sounds very reasonable to me, it will be a good way of encouraging new riders to gear up properly.
The more different view points there are the better, your right with the fact that if some looks over it someone else may rememeber it.

[TOTO]

sounds reasonable to me

[zealchick]

sounds great. i think the standard of safety gear worn by all riders is pretty good and it is certainly encouraged already. As is safety of bikes. So correct me if i am wrong but really all that will change is that it wil be made a little more official? Input from different aspects is always beneficial, what i find is 3 people can tell you the same information but 1 will explain it in a way that makes sense to me lol

[p.dath]

sounds great. i think the standard of safety gear worn by all riders is pretty good and it is certainly encouraged already. As is safety of bikes. So correct me if i am wrong but really all that will change is that it wil be made a little more official? Input from different aspects is always beneficial, what i find is 3 people can tell you the same information but 1 will explain it in a way that makes sense to me lol

The main changes form my perspective, is we'll need to ask new riders if they have a licence, and have the correct licence for the class of bike they ride. And that we should also do a random look at each others bikes and make sure they are registered with a warrant - and safe.

And from the Police side of things, an officer will "officially" be rostered on to help, which means they can attend regularly.

[Big Dog]

I am all for the above propositions.

[R-Soul]

I am all for it. If there is official involvement around the safety angle, the missus would be more inclined to take over bathtime/feeding/book reading duties for a night while I make myself safer...

[Brown Bear]

Do the North Auckland street skills still meet,if so is it still the same place as mentioned away back on page one.I would definitely be interested to learn as much as i can if fellow riders with experience are still teaching.

Cheers Matt

[LankyBastard]

Do the North Auckland street skills still meet,if so is it still the same place as mentioned away back on page one.I would definitely be interested to learn as much as i can if fellow riders with experience are still teaching.

Cheers Matt

Yep we still meet at Shell Westgate at 6.30pm, see you there tonight!

[DMNTD]

Input from different aspects is always beneficial, what i find is 3 people can tell you the same information but 1 will explain it in a way that makes sense to me lol

...and that right there is the difference between a good 'mentor' and an experienced rider

[The Everlasting]

I might head down,if the motorway isn't too clogged with traffic.

[TOTO]

Awesome turnout Chaps. Great to see all of you enjoying yourselves and having fun :)

Catch ya'll next week :ride:

[Sharry]

Yup was a great turnout, good to see more newbies :yes:

Exelent new big ride TOTO was nice to do the old road we havnt been on since last summer plus a new one :2thumbsup:

[The Everlasting]

I mean't to head out to the pub,but turns out I followed the wrong people..oops.

But it was a good ride!

[Brown Bear]

Thanks for the time and effort last night teaching us.Enjoyed it will be there next week.

Matt

[lizard007]

Thanks for the great new, longish ride. Good to see a great turn out, and some new people. Catch you all next week :wings::ride:

[lizard007]

Please read, As this will affect all motorcyclists. http://nz.news.yahoo.com/a/-/top-stories/8303248/police-campaign-to-target-motorcyclists/

[The Everlasting]

Oh bugger,were getting picked on again!

I saw 2 bikers behind me getting pulled over on the motorway,on my way home from Nass,no idea why, they werent speeding or anything.

Seems they no longer need a reason to pull you over.

[DMNTD]

Oh bugger,were getting picked on again!

I saw 2 bikers behind me getting pulled over on the motorway,on my way home from Nass,no idea why, they werent speeding or anything.

Seems they no longer need a reason to pull you over.
'They've' never required a 'reason' to pull us or any other road user over TBH.
Keep ya power dry and she's all good :yes:

[Rych]

'They've' never required a 'reason' to pull us or any other road user over TBH.
Keep ya power dry and she's all good :yes:[/B]
It's not that police don't need a reason, they do but a very very basic reason under the land transport act. ie to insurance WOF/REG up to date, to check vehicle is up to WOF standard, to confirm driver/rider is on correct licence for vehicle etc...

I think this is good, it's only for a month and nice to know our saftey as a rider is important. :yes:

[zealchick]

Please read, As this will affect all motorcyclists. http://nz.news.yahoo.com/a/-/top-stories/8303248/police-campaign-to-target-motorcyclists/

If it improves rider safety i am all for it :yes::yes:

[TOTO]

been through 3 police checkpoints in the last 2 days. No one gave me any trouble at all. I have no problem with them trying to tell us that "we should be safe riding our bikes" :ride:

[Big Dog]

been through 3 police checkpoints in the last 2 days. No one gave me any trouble at all. I have no problem with them trying to tell us that "we should be safe riding our bikes" :ride:

In the last ten years of riding I have been stopped 3 times for breathalising at checkpoints, 2 times for warrant and reg checkpoints and once for speeding. Having said that I have been told many times that the North Shore Police are more proactive.

[p.dath]

I had another meeting with Superintendent John Kelly this morning, and clarified the expected role of the Police (I used the term "knowledge transfer" - the Police will be used to transfer knowledge to the new riders).
From here John said he will write up a very simple agreement (that riders must have a licence, rego, warrant, safe bike, etc), which I'll accept on behalf of the group, and everything will be underway.

He also offered to get Katrina from ACC in contact to see if ACC can provide us with any assistance. I accepted his offer. Once again, no harm in asking for help. I'm not sure who Katrina is at the moment, but I shall start a dialogue with her.

[MarkH]

He also offered to get Katrina from ACC in contact to see if ACC can provide us with any assistance. I accepted his offer. Once again, no harm in asking for help. I'm not sure who Katrina is at the moment, but I shall start a dialogue with her.

Remember the 1st rule of internet forums - if she's hot we'll be needing pictures.

[The Everlasting]

For some reason they had closed the north western motorway,so I had to take a huge detour!!

Was rather annoying,not sure why it was closed.....


Oh and a big thanks to the mentors and fellow riders for a great ride,it was good to get to know some of you..:)

[Brown Bear]

Another very worthwhile night again.Thanks to all, for there time i learnt alot.Now back to my quiet carpark to put into practice what i was shown.If you are new to riding as i am go along to the wednesday night Nass well worth it.

Matt

[p.dath]

I have had had a formal response (attached) from the Superintendent John Kelly from the Police saying he will grant permission for the Police to attend based on the prior conditions.

I intend to write a letter of acceptance unless I hear any last minute screams.

[R-Soul]

I have had had a formal response (attached) from the Superintendent John Kelly from the Police saying he will grant permission for the Police to attend based on the prior conditions.

I intend to write a letter of acceptance unless I hear any last minute screams.

Why no cops on the group ride? surely they could advise on riding lines and speeds etc?
It is a good place for them to poick up on potantial problems.
Also, more cops would volunteer for training if they could go on the ride...

[p.dath]

Why no cops on the group ride? surely they could advise on riding lines and speeds etc?
It is a good place for them to poick up on potantial problems.
Also, more cops would volunteer for training if they could go on the ride...

Well, there is several things to consider:

Having a Police officer follow a learner on the ride the entire way may make them concentrate on their speedo too much, rather than their riding as a whole.
It may make new riders feel nervous.
Every minute the Police are spending help us is a minute they are not spending on more typical Policing. The Police want the maximum bang for the dollars being invested in the police resource.
There is a lot of potential for negative PR towards the Police should an accident occur on a ride they are participating in.

[Sharry]

Thanks Phil,
What you have been saying in regards to conversations with the police makes sense and seems totaly acceptable.
Thanks for all your work in this.

[Brown Bear]

Damn will have to miss the NASS tonight.My bike has got a rattle somewhere at the top of the motor.Have booked it in for Friday,don't want to ride it to much until then.Next week hopefully.

Matt

[Neon]

Anyone interested in a pre-NASS pootle - I will be departing from Shell Westgate at 5pm, returning to meet up with the NASS crew at 6.30pm. All welcome, can be learner friendly pace if needed :scooter:

[JK12]

Anyone interested in a pre-NASS pootle - I will be departing from Shell Westgate at 5pm, returning to meet up with the NASS crew at 6.30pm. All welcome, can be learner friendly pace if needed :scooter:

too late now otherwise I wouldn't mind a 5pm pootle :scooter:

[BMCruiser]

Good work Phil,

I always find the bike cops friendly when I come across them on the road. They always seems to acknowledge me with a nod or wave. I think it would be good to see them along at NASS when they can make it. After-all they are bikers too

[Sammy12]

Can someone please post the video of the vespa... pretty please :innocent:

[TOTO]

Can someone please post the video of the vespa... pretty please :innocent:

ere you go

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIV3B0eFW30

[KiWiP]

:scooter: Vespa is Italian for wasp

'Cos it stings like fuck when you fall off :wings:

[p.dath]

FYI, I have now formally written to the Police saying that NASS accept the conditions and the offer of assistance.

[Devil]

Good work dude.

[ffirman]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljeCRN1HJGQ

The double up on the Vespa didn't come out, :facepalm:, so I guess it never happened, and is only now etched in to the deep recesses of our minds..

[Honor3]

Hi Guys

Is anyone going out to the Toy Run, maybe we can go as a small group together?
I'm from West Ak.

[Badger8]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljeCRN1HJGQ

The double up on the Vespa didn't come out, :facepalm:, so I guess it never happened, and is only now etched in to the deep recesses of our minds..

Hey man, that's just how us honda riders roll :buggerd:

Did anyone else get it on tape? i'm interested to see how bad it looked :lol:

[TOTO]

only the mankini was missing :sweatdrop

[R-Soul]

Hi Guys

Is anyone going out to the Toy Run, maybe we can go as a small group together?
I'm from West Ak.

When is it? it doesn't say anything on the BRONZ website?

EDIT: Ah Hell, Its just been - DAMMIT!!

[thehovel]

Hi Folks, Wednesday 8th will be the last offical NASS for this year. Starting up again on Jan the 19th 2011. Regards Richard

[Clean_up]

OMG!
I so have to come along! Will pop up after work and hopefully make it there in time to catch you all. Finishing in New Lynn at HOPEFULLY 6:30

[p.dath]

To give Richard a hand I put in a formal request to the minister of ACC to find out the procedure to apply for funding from ACC from the new ring fenced motorcycle pool.

I finally got the official response today. It is attached. Short story, norhing is happening before March.

[Clean_up]

To give Richard a hand I put in a formal request to the minister of ACC to find out the procedure to apply for funding from ACC from the new ring fenced motorcycle pool.

I finally got the official response today. It is attached. Short story, norhing is happening before March.

Whats the "ring fenced ACC motorcycle pool"?

[Nagash]

I'll see you guys tonight for the last one then.

[Neon]

Should be a good show then by the sounds of it. See you all there. :scooter:

[p.dath]

Whats the "ring fenced ACC motorcycle pool"?

When you pay your ACC fees $30 is put into a "ring fenced" fund that can only be used for "motorcycle safety". The tricky bit is, no one has been able to get any of these funds.

So I took a different tack. Instead of asking for funding, I asked the minister of ACC what the procedure was to be able to apply to get access to the funding.

And the short answer is, the procedure doesn't exist yet, which is why no one has been able to get funding, and that sometime around March the process is expected to be put in place.

[retro asian]

Hi Folks, Wednesday 8th will be the last offical NASS for this year. Starting up again on Jan the 19th 2011. Regards Richard

Damn, can't make it... wish you guys all a Merry Xmas and happy new year.
We should definitely organise a long ride or two over the holidays!!!

[The Everlasting]

Dumbass of the week goes to me!!


I mistakenly turned into the riverhead/coatesville highway,but turned around as soon as I realised the rest weren't following,but I couldn't find the others again,so had to go home..:(

[p.dath]

Dumbass of the week goes to me!!


I mistakenly turned into the riverhead/coatesville highway,but turned around as soon as I realised the rest weren't following,but I couldn't find the others again,so had to go home..:(

It's Friday, so yes, you win. Were there no other riders in front of you?

[The Everlasting]

It's Friday, so yes, you win. Were there no other riders in front of you?


Nope there werent,so I just turned in there because we normally do.

[thehovel]

Nope there werent,so I just turned in there because we normally do.

I DONT DO A BRIEFING BECAUSE I LIKE TO HEAR MY OWN VOICE. YOU SHOUD LISTEN THEN YOU WOULD HAVE KNOWN where we was going:chase: and where THE PUB:drinkup::drinkup::drinknsin:drinknsin was. Yes bumbie:stupid: of the week. Regards Richard

[zealchick]

Is anyone keen for a ride tomorrow night? maybe head off about 6.30? could do a slightly different ride and have dinner in Orewa or any suggestions??

[hanham]

I am keen for a ride, will see you there.

[Neon]

Unfortunately I can't make it, hope you all have a nice evening, looks like the weather should hold out for you. :scooter:

[LankyBastard]

Sounds good, Becca and I will see you there for sure.

[Honor3]

I'm keen I thought we were going to Hallertau after?

[The Everlasting]

So is it 6:30 at shell westgate?

[LankyBastard]

So is it 6:30 at shell westgate?

Yep sure is!

[Sharry]

I can be there at 6.30. I have someone turning up for two mins between now and 6 so will leave strait after that if you can wait for me.

EDIT: All done will be there at about 6.20

[thehovel]

Well the rain should stop about the 12th of Jan 2011 for the first NASS meeting. Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year to all who came to meets during 2010. Bestest Regards Richard

[Sharry]

Many thanks Richard for your dedicated support all year :drinknsin

Merry Xmas to everyone :grouphug:

[The Everlasting]

Many thanks Richard for your dedicated support all year :drinknsin




+1 on that!

Passed my 6R easily!

[p.dath]

Well the rain should stop about the 12th of Jan 2011 for the first NASS meeting. Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year to all who came to meets during 2010. Bestest Regards Richard

You previously said we were going to start again on the 19th. 12th works better for me ...

[thehovel]

You previously said we were going to start again on the 19th. 12th works better for me ...

Got Lonely

[Nagash]

Hey Lads,

I know I haven't been in bloody ages but I just wanted to say a quick thankyou to all the mentors who run this thing, you saved my bacon today.

Got a new bike a couple weeks back and it was Nass that taught me to take it straight to a carpark and practice your emergency braking, cornering and the extents of your tire grip in general.

Going through town today down a one way 5 lane street, car on far right me on far left. Car cuts right across all 5 lanes to get to a car park right infront of me. I slam on the picks, even in this bloody rain managed to keep it a controlled stop, not a single slide from the back at all.

Still impacted into the rear wheel of the car but I had slowed down enough that I managed to keep the bike upright, so there was absolutely no damage to my bike what so ever and just a bit of whiplash in my left arm when the handlebars made a major twist.

So thankyou guys, even after it's been almost 2 years I think since I've been, your advice has still helped me out, and you lot thought I was locking up the rear wheel and sliding around the car park on purpose haha.

Merry Christmas y'all, and ride safe. I'll try and join you for the first one next year.

[Sharry]

Hey Josh, good on ya for keeping up the practice... it does pay off eh. Thank goodness you reacted quickly, that could have been a lot worse for you. What are you riding now?

[Nagash]

I got myself a Honda Magna VF750.

Beautiful blue thing and it's bloody big for a 750. Seems to get me round well enough.

Was shitting myself when the thought crossed my mind that I may of damaged it *already*. Took a good year or so of hard saving since my last bike got knicked to buy it.

I'm not gonna reveal what happened with the driver after I recovered from the shock.. Bastard.

[Sharry]

Luffly bike Josh, and whatever you "did" to the driver I am sure he was begging for it :yes:

[p.dath]

I'm slowly making progress with ACC (Katrina.vanderWende@acc.co.nz). It looks like Katrina and the local Road Safety Co-ordinator will be coming along for a visit in February (I invited them along).



Hi Phil

Yes happy to come along to a session sometime, perhaps early February?
If we set a date when we're all back on board I can arrange some packs and info to bring along to give out to the group. The local council Road Safety Coordinator will most likely come also.

We get our local budgets on an annual basis, it is all very specific and related to KPIs such as x number of campaigns, x number of events supported, x number of people trained etc etc, and usually very tight, the current year is all committed. Next round will be July 2011. I can talk to you when I come along to the group what the plans are for the remainder of this financial year. We have a few events coming up in February which we can also promote to your group.

I'll touch base end of January to sort out a date.

Have a lovely xmas and new year.

Kind regards

[zealchick]

Hard to imagine right now...but the weather is meant to be nice tomorrow, is anyone around and fancy a wee ride? I'll be free from about 5.30 ish onwards:scooter:

[The Everlasting]

Yeah forecast is sunny,I could be keen for a ride.

[Clean_up]

Yeah forecast is sunny,I could be keen for a ride.

+1, depending on what im up to with the family :)

[zealchick]

Ok so if i show up about 5.40 ish will there be anyone there?

[musicman]

I'm keen for one last ride for 2010! Maybe up SH16 to Wellsford and back?

[musicman]

Nobody? Well I'll be at Shell Westgate around 6pm I guess, keen for SH16, hopefully there'll be people to join me!

[zealchick]

yep i'll be there
wellsford sounds good to me

[musicman]

So where was everyone?! Last Wednesday night of the year, great weather, and zealchick was the only one that showed! :oi-grr:

[Sharry]

Sorry dude, I would have made it exept for being totaly wiped out from my wonderful weekend marshelling at the Taupo races this weekend.
I now have to reserve energy to ride down to Hastings after work on Friday :woohoo:

[TOTO]

had to work cuzzy bro - keeping auckland bikers moving sometimes requires extra effort

[The Everlasting]

Sorry man,had to work later than usual,so couldn't make it...

[Sly_guy]

I don't log on here often enough these days!!! I could have done with a good ride, if only I'd checked ! :)

[thehovel]

Well it would seem that my opinion of the court bailiff work ethic is a little wrong:facepalm::facepalm::facepalm:. It will be 19th of March be for I am permitted to drive, ride again:innocent:. If you can’t do the time don’t do the crime. Any way NIWA are predicting a WET summer. Season’s Greetings to Every-one Richard:bye::bye:

[Clean_up]

Well it would seem that my opinion of the court bailiff work ethic is a little wrong:facepalm::facepalm::facepalm:. It will be 19th of March be for I am permitted to drive, ride again:innocent:. If you can’t do the time don’t do the crime. Any way NIWA are predicting a WET summer. Season’s Greetings to Every-one Richard:bye::bye:

AWWW mean ol nasty court type peoples :( heres hoping for your sake that we do have a wet summer :yes: and a dry autumn :woohoo:

[zealchick]

Well it would seem that my opinion of the court bailiff work ethic is a little wrong:facepalm::facepalm::facepalm:. It will be 19th of March be for I am permitted to drive, ride again:innocent:. If you can’t do the time don’t do the crime. Any way NIWA are predicting a WET summer. Season’s Greetings to Every-one Richard:bye::bye:

:facepalm: bugger one of the unlucky ones huh:shit:

you will be missed..... roll on march

[Toaster]

Any way NIWA are predicting a WET summer. Season’s Greetings to Every-one Richard:bye::bye:

Well its 35 degrees in Kaukapakapa at the moment. We could do with a drop or two of the wet stuff.... way too hot to wear any clothes on the bike today.

[Toaster]

When's the next ride night anyway?

[BoristheBiter]

Well its 35 degrees in Kaukapakapa at the moment. We could do with a drop or two of the wet stuff.... way too hot to wear any clothes on the bike today.

That picture is not one i want in my head thanks.

[p.dath]

When's the next ride night anyway?

Wednesday January 19th.

[Toaster]

That picture is not one i want in my head thanks.

Not as bad as doing the cold kiwi naked and finding ones bits have frozen to the fuel tank.

[BoristheBiter]

Not as bad as doing the cold kiwi naked and finding ones bits have frozen to the fuel tank.

The reason for two things being invented.

Plastic gas tanks and clothes. remember ATGATT.

[p.dath]

I understand AMCC have some spaces left in ART group 1, which would be perfect for anyone in NASS with say 6 months of riding time or more.

ART is Advanced Rider Training, and is on January 16th. I highly recommend it.
http://www.amcc.org.nz/advanced

[cheesemethod]

Informal NASS on Wednesday the 12th anybody? Same start time and place, long ride and then Bar Africa?

[TOTO]

Informal NASS on Wednesday the 12th anybody? Same start time and place, long ride and then Bar Africa?

yeap. i'm up for a long ride ;)

bring clear visors :weird:

[Clean_up]

Sounds like a good plan ;) I'll fill the tank and bring ma clear visor ;) meeting shell at 630?

[TOTO]

Sounds like a good plan ;) I'll fill the tank and bring ma clear visor ;) meeting shell at 630?

unless we can meet at 6 and leave at 6:30 which will give us more time for riding :sherlock:

what say you ?

[zealchick]

unless we can meet at 6 and leave at 6:30 which will give us more time for riding :sherlock:

what say you ?

I can be there at 6! sounds good to me:woohoo:

[LankyBastard]

6 it shall be!!!

[Haymaker]

I might join for once. Waste the rest of my front tyre before fitting a new one after work on Thursday hopefully. Then get rid of the massive chicken strips from commuting at my first track day at on Saturday :)

[LankyBastard]

I might join for once. Waste the rest of my front tyre before fitting a new one after work on Thursday hopefully. Then get rid of the massive chicken strips from commuting at my first track day at on Saturday :)

Sounds good, my first track day as well, should be great! See you Wed

[rickstv]

Count me in for 6pm. Sun should still be shining,:niceone:
Rick.

[TOTO]

sweet as , 6pm at shell westgate, 6:30 take off. Bring your clear visors :weird:

[retro asian]

Long ride...cool. See you guys tonight :eek:

[wanpo]

Keen; Just want to confirm;

6pm @ Shell Westgate (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?q=-36.821304,174.6087&num=1&t=h&sll=-41.244772,172.617188&sspn=17.430211,24.345703&ie=UTF8&ll=-36.821292,174.608631&spn=0.003208,0.004823&z=18)

[The Everlasting]

Damm,I'm shifting house,so can't go..:( Nice weather too!

[English Kiwi]

I'm keen...anyone else on a Learners going tonight?

[Haymaker]

So I got to Shell about 6min too late. Went on my own wee ride. Hope you all had a good one. Hopefully i'll be right on my ride down to Manfield and back this weekend. Bring on track day :)

[wanpo]

Epic ride; Had fun.

1xdog
1xrabbit
2xpossum
2xcat
1xhuman female

[TOTO]

Epic ride; Had fun.

1xdog
1xrabbit
2xpossum
2xcat
1xhuman female

2 x rabbit
2x possum
1 x human female actually looked like a zombie
amso many x hot babes

[imw-hornet]

2 x rabbit
2x possum
1 x human female actually looked like a zombie
amso many x hot babes

Great Ride chaps ,,, was long over due
Just inconnection with the stats ,,,,, corrections below
3x Possum (alive and well)
1x Possum (alive but had tail and leg ridden over ,,,,,, sorry:()
1x Zombie human female (was looking for friends BTW )
too many hotties while trying to eat pizza :)

Thanks again Tod :niceone:

[retro asian]

1 x human female actually looked like a zombie


A pretty hot / slutty zombie hitchhiker... :blank:

[wanpo]

Zombies? *goes shotgun shopping*

[OutForADuck]

ART Day tomorrow you going or what!!!

We still have some places in the newbies group... perfect place for you guys to gain a level of instruction and confidence par none.

Come on down and have a go, if you have never been on a track before or have been scared off by your last venture THIS IS THE PLACE TO BE. Its friendly, safe and well run. You'll get really great tutition, the chance to get your bike sorted out, lunch and smiles that will last for a long time.

Group one guys usually start the day slower than a road pace, but by the end of the day are riding around like pro's and comments like these are so common we are starting to think we are perhaps doing a good job.

“Really enjoyed my first ever track day @ Puke on Sat! The instructors were fantastic - what a positive bunch of guys! totally encouraging especially to a new boy feeling very nervous and out of his depth.

Felt totally different at the end of the day and now looking forward to April 18! The weather and organisation was exceptional so thank you all.”

***

“We had a ball at the art day. I never thought ART could be so much fun”

***

"Just thought I’d write a short thank you, learning has never been so enjoyable.

After only 3 years on the road, learning from instructors with so much experience made attending the novice course a must for all new riders.

I have already been applying techniques such as breaking, cornering, smoothness, throttle control to the road and it has improved my abilities after a single session, which is testament to the great instructors you have.

Looking forward to attending further courses, would like it to rain next time though as I need to build up confidence and learn techniques for winter riding."

[p.dath]

I'll be along tomorrow. Because group 2 is full, I'll probably be joining group 1. If anyone else is heading along from NASS (or even the shore) your welcome to ride out with me.

You can find out more about the day at these locations:
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/wiki/AMCC_Advanced_Rider_Training

http://www.amcc.org.nz/advanced

[TOTO]

I'll see you guys at the track :niceone:

[Toaster]

I'll see you guys at the track :niceone:

It was a good day - incredibly hot weather and a heck of a lot of quick riders to watch and bikes to look at.

[LankyBastard]

Got to say my first ART day was nothing short of awesome!!! Loving my semi melted tires...

On the usual note, we all keen for a normal departure time tonight?

[Neon]

Yep I'll be there.

:scooter:

[rickstv]

Sunshine, woohoo, yup i will most likely be there.....ah...what time ,6 or 6.30pm?
Rick.

[English Kiwi]

Yep i'll be there! :)

[LankyBastard]

We'll go for 6.30, so as many people as possible can join.

[Neon]

Should be back to the normal time this evening I imagine - 6.30pm meet up for 7pm departure to Albany.

[LankyBastard]

Yep I'll be there.

:scooter:

Was it a fuelling issue?

[Neon]

Was it a fuelling issue?

Aye it was. Feckin' connector to the fuel pump wasn't clipped up properly where it passes through the support bulkhead. So the extra vibration and wind at warp speed must have shaken it loose. :angry2:

[English Kiwi]

On the plus, at least it's now fixed!

What's the route going to be tonight guys?

[LankyBastard]

Aye it was. Feckin' connector to the fuel pump wasn't clipped up properly where it passes through the support bulkhead. So the extra vibration and wind at warp speed must have shaken it loose. :angry2:

Glad it was an easy fix, bring on the next ART day!

[offrd]

Well a good nass! great to see some new as green riders! good on you guys! KEEP COMING!!!

One comment from the group ride that i am very disappointed about.....

Rider crosses centreline passing on a blind corner, to get where? One rider ahead....

Then the attitude thinking it was funny at the group briefing after....

Shameless....

This is NO place to set examples like this of this kind of riding.

Sorry about my grump, we may all remember seeing recently a light truck that was hit by a motorbike on the news, two dead.... Rider and driver of truck.
I have a motor bike in my yard that hit a car, one dead rider, and one NOT at fault car driver who's life, is now changed forever.......

Have you ever seen a rider pop out from under a truck, dead.

I have.

You never know what's around the blind corner, don't roll the dice!

Lets keep it real out there guys!

See you next Wednesday.
:Police:

[TOTO]

Good Constructive advice that we can all learn from. Thank you.

[OutForADuck]

Sorry I couldn't make it out this time around guys... will be there next week for sure.

Just a thougth guys.... a car/bike traveling at 100kph covers nearly 30Mtrs a second.... two closing together close nearly 60Mtrs a second, the human brain takes a second to react giving you another 60Mtrs or 120Mtrs with only a second to do something that will save you from a 200KPH head on!!!!!!!

This is why they are fatal.... and beleive me you can't do much in a second.

Cross onto the oncoming lane only when you can see clear road for a safe pass.

[Go Jo Go]

Hi y'all,

Hoping to join you guys for the NASS tomorrow night. Are you meeting at the Shell at the end of SH16, or in Albany tomorrow night?

Cheers,

Jo

[TOTO]

Hi y'all,

Hoping to join you guys for the NASS tomorrow night. Are you meeting at the Shell at the end of SH16, or in Albany tomorrow night?

Cheers,

Jo

Shell westgate meet up at 6:30pm , and leaving at 7:00 pm. Usually arriving in the Albany carpark at about 7:30pm.

Most people show up at the Shell petrol station and get some riding in before the carpark. Others opt for straight meet at the carpark if they are running late or can not be bothered to get to the gas station (sometimes miss on some good riding tho).