DB1k 2010 ideas thread

[cooneyr]

Seems people out there are already thinking about the DB1k and how to improve or otherwise modify. I'm cautious that there has been much time and though put into developing the route and the roll chart but in saying this times have changed since the concept was first developed back in early 2007.

This thread is therefore a place for any wacky or sane ideas to be proposed so they can be investigated and disucssed. Appropriate topics include the time of year, start times, group management, the route, fuel stops, land access, the roll chart, and the GPS route. Also please let me know what you didnt like about the route and if possible propose solutions/alternatives.

I will collate all the ideas, provide links to the part of the thread where the idea started being discussed if necessary and I'll also provide the final word in this, the first, post.

Note I'm the one who has to prepare the roll chart etc for this ride and I've been involved from the start so I'm reserving the final decision on an idea. This is in the interest of reaching conclusions than being a dictator.

Cheers R

Ideas/Issues List

Time of year
Murcheson to Springs and back leg
Small Bore Challange (SBC)
St Arnaud/Murcheson Base
Reefton Buller loop
DB2k
Yamaha Marlborough Sounds Safari is to be based in Blenheim on 9, 10, 11 Jan 2010
Port nelson street races tie in.
Central/North Otago Route
Move around 3 or so routes
Rainbow rage MTB thing is early March usually
Start and finish in your own location


Edit - seems the links to posts idea wasnt well through through so I'll not bother with the links. Use the thread search function above.

[buggsubique]

Murch to springs was a long way but i thought it was a good leg actually - the far reaches for a little dirtbike like I was on!

[cooneyr]

That said there are three items that I want input into.

1 What time of year should the run occur? Logic says near the summer soulstice i.e. as near as is practical to the 21st of December. Problem is that this is the busiest time of year for many of us with christmas, family, etc etc. To date we have oppted for just after the new year but this is often in the middle of others holidays. Also this is a time of year when expenses are high. One point for holding the run at this time of year is that the Molesworth is almost always open where as later i.e. later in Jan, Waitangi Weekend etc there is a much higher chance of the Molesworth being closed.

2 The run from Murcheson to Spings and back again is very much a tagged on leg to make up the kms and it is both ways on the same road. I'd much prefer to not have people riding both directions on the same peice of road for safety reason. It is a nice run down to Springs and it would be all good if we were able to go over the Rahu to Reefton, then back north via Ikamatua and the Buller. Problem being that it is all sealed so our % of gravel drops significantly and will be below the desired 50%. Does anybody have any ideas on how to improve this section of the ride?

3 DB1k SBC (Small Bore Challenge). I recon this would be a worthwhile addition to the ride seeing as we are getting regular finishers for the 1day run now. Idea would be 125cc or less road legal bikes. Typically looking at CT110's, XL125, DR125 etc though if you dont mind carrying lots of juce, TC125, DT125 etc two stroke would be OK. Bucket type bikes would probably work as well as most have narrow 19inch wheels that suitable tyres could easily be sourced for. As this is not a race age is irrelivent but in the sprit of the ride the older and the smaller the better. I suspect this would become a how far can you go in 24 hours ride rather than can you complete the whole 1000kms. This will be a lot more challanging physically and mentally than the DB1k 1 day run and we will have to work out a safety plan i.e. what you do if you reach the 24 hours and are not home due to tiredness, breakdown, not enough time etc. Is anybody interested in this idea?

Cheers R

[Underground]

I think that the route was fine ,and that murch ,springs leg is great ,the Maruia saddle is such a nice ride in both directions ,also that leg gives a chance to cover some k's and lax back a bit as theres nothing too gnarley on it .

[buggsubique]

I know zeRax said he was keen for hte small bore. Myself...I couldn't think of anything worse! Long way on a little bike = hell on 2 wheels... each to their own!

If I do it on the @ this year it will be comfy as hell compared to a buzzy dirtbike.:scooter:

[cooneyr]

...One I would be real keen for is the Molesworth 500 or something - a early / late winter snow mission...likely wouldn't be permitted, but it would be a challenge for sure.

Oi :Offtopic: already but interesting none the less. Snow is obviously really unpredictable in terms of when you will find it on the ground and also if it has been well tracked and compacted by vehicles it is an absolute bitch to ride on. We've had some really good snow rides on fresh snow (banks peninsular snow ride) but we have had some really really hard work rides as well (check out the hanmer snow ride thread).

Cheers R

[Racing Dave]

Hi Ryan,

Good on you for thinking of the next ride so already - I'll be there, and probably on the actual date, this time. I'm a huge fan of little bikes being ridden long distances, and am planning for my entry to be on a 125, no matter if there's an 'official' class for tiddlers, or not.

I'll give your other topics some thought, and reply again, soon.

Cheers,
Dave B

[jezzaNZ]

Ryan, what about going on to Reefton and a couple of loops there ie. big river etc and then back via the Buller Gorge? There must be some interesting stuff up that way and then there is no need to double back on trails that have already been ridden.

Another fantastic idea would be to base it out of say St Anaud or Much?

Also DB2K............

What do ya fink?

Jez

[JATZ]

Mrs Jatz and i were discussing the DB yesterday (even went and re-read the thread on ADV rider).
Wondering if the CT could do it ? Already sorted some "ralley" twin head lights and an extra fuel tank for it.Road legal could be a problem.
Daughter might even be keen next time round if she can get her act together
Not too fussed when it is, and the route seems o.k.to me

[Racing Dave]

The Yamaha Marlborough Sounds Safari is to be based in Blenheim on 9, 10, 11 Jan 2010, so it would be best (for me, and others) not to conflict with that weekend.

[MXNUT]

Same time of year suits me as i was planning to go to the port nelson street races as well as the Dusty in 2010

2 day option would suit me best as having never ridden down that way it would be nice to be able to take the time to enjoy the ride and the scenery.

As for the route, i will leave that in your capable hands ( by all accounts you have done an excellent job so far ) but really wanted to do Molesworth :dodge:

[zeRax]

small bore ftw! ;D done of on a 250, then a 400, , looking out for anything the right price.


if i do the dusty again, it would be small bore challenge,, id really like to do it on the smallest cc and complete, anyone else done it on a 250 ;D? gotta get those cc's down!, im only a small chappo after all, must be an advantage!

[junkmanjoe]

Hello i also will be attending this event, as a newbie.

the two day option is my thoughts, as it will be all new ground, and my eyes will be busy, looking at all the loverly stuff and the road ahead...
as for the course, you have set it out 3-4 times before, so im sure you know whats what.
i have around 500km fuel range so the route is anything go's, bring it on.
eather at the end of this event, or before depending on your date for start, a hand full off us a heading off on our sth island tour, for a look around your fantasic island...:niceone:

cheers. JMJ

[Peril]

If all goes to plan,I should be there on a 200 2 stroke :shit: And hopefully I make the event this time!

[cooneyr]

Ryan, what about going on to Reefton and a couple of loops there ie. big river etc and then back via the Buller Gorge? There must be some interesting stuff up that way and then there is no need to double back on trails that have already been ridden.

Another fantastic idea would be to base it out of say St Anaud or Much?

Also DB2K...............

DB2k would be damn hard work. Not sure there is enough reasonable pace gravel in NZ. Maybe in the states where they have really long straight roads. There is a Dusty Butt 1000 mile ride they do over there somewhere. Back via the Buller has a really bad effect on the gravel kms as said above. I'll have another looksee at this but I'm not hopeful. Not sure about the alternative starting point, need to think about this a bit more.


The Yamaha Marlborough Sounds Safari is to be based in Blenheim on 9, 10, 11 Jan 2010, so it would be best (for me, and others) not to conflict with that weekend.

Thanks for the heads up Dave. I know that this year there was at least one who did both the DB1k and Yammy Safari.


.... id really like to do it on the smallest cc and complete, anyone else done it on a 250 ;D? gotta get those cc's down!, im only a small chappo after all, must be an advantage!

Your the person with the smallest cc bike completed run so far but you do have a little bit of an advantage - esp compared to me!!.


If all goes to plan,I should be there on a 200 2 stroke :shit: And hopefully I make the event this time!

Saw your bike at DAS the other day. A 200 smoker doesn't count for the SBC by the way :bleh:

Those who mention the two day run can take it as a given that there will be a two day ride.

Cheers R

[cooneyr]

Another idea mooted at the end of the 2008 run was to have a Central/North Otago based ride. I had a look on the maps back then and recon that a route with more than 50% gravel/dirt would be possible ranging from the Nevis in the south to Mackenzies Pass in the north. Would people prefer to go south and base themselves in say Alex, or Ranfurly or Otematata or thereabouts? Is it time to shift it south or do we stick with the northern SI route?

Cheers R

[JATZ]

Another idea mooted at the end of the 2008 run was to have a Central/North Otago based ride. I had a look on the maps back then and recon that a route with more than 50% gravel/dirt would be possible ranging from the Nevis in the south to Mackenzies Pass in the north. Would people prefer to go south and base themselves in say Alex, or Ranfurly or Otematata or thereabouts? Is it time to shift it south or do we stick with the northern SI route?

Cheers R

"I don't care where so long as I'm there ha ha ha chuckle"--T. Shadbolt, Invergigle mayor

[NordieBoy]

We've had it up here for the last 3 years. Time for some new trails?

[Paladin]

2010 will be my first DB, but I don't see why moving it around should be a problem, maybe rotation of routes over 3 years over northern, central and southern routes.

[BMWST?]

be aware too that the rainbow rage MTB thing is early March ussually.St arnaud will be chocka friday night,and hamner will be busy sat night,not to mention there will be mountain bikes strung from one end of rainbow to the other on staurday

[jezzaNZ]

Another idea mooted at the end of the 2008 run was to have a Central/North Otago based ride. I had a look on the maps back then and recon that a route with more than 50% gravel/dirt would be possible ranging from the Nevis in the south to Mackenzies Pass in the north. Would people prefer to go south and base themselves in say Alex, or Ranfurly or Otematata or thereabouts? Is it time to shift it south or do we stick with the northern SI route?

Cheers R

Sounds like a plan, that way I would get to deal to my unfinished business with the Nevis and Dunstan!!!! Just a thought, base it in Twizel and take the following rought - Twizel - across Tekapo river to Halden Arm - Black Forrest Rd - Danseys - Ranfurly - Dunstan Trail - Lake Onslow - Roxburgh - Nevis - Queenstown (late lunch) - something in between - Tarras - Thompsons - St Bathans - Omarama Saddle - Twizel.

Probably need a little more gravel in between tracks listed above especially from Garston. Would make for a big exciting day with plenty of water crossings and Omarama Saddle in the dark.......yeh baby!

Just my 2 cents worth. Jez

[cooneyr]

....rainbow rage MTB thing...

Thanks for the reminder but I'm aware of that one having done it twice. Motorpeddly is much more fun and less painful!


Sounds like a plan, that way I would get to deal to my unfinished business with the Nevis and Dunstan!!!! Just a thought, base it in Twizel and take the following rought - Twizel - across Tekapo river to Halden Arm - Black Forrest Rd - Danseys - Ranfurly - Dunstan Trail - Lake Onslow - Roxburgh - Nevis - Queenstown (late lunch) - something in between - Tarras - Thompsons - St Bathans - Omarama Saddle - Twizel.

Probably need a little more gravel in between tracks listed above especially from Garston. Would make for a big exciting day with plenty of water crossings and Omarama Saddle in the dark.......yeh baby!

Just my 2 cents worth. Jez

Haha love the bit highlighted above. The something in between bit is the bain of the DB1k route. Gravel roads are becomming to few and far between for us adv riders. I've got an initial route planned from my mucking around this time last year that is something along those lines. I'll try and find it tonight but I think from memory that travelling 1000km without adding in silly track backs and wandering loops is the challange. Also it needs to be more than just blasting along long gravel roads i.e. Haldon/Haka etc, we need some fun stuff like the Old woman range, Carricktown, Omarama Saddle etc. I recon the challange of the Mangatapu, Altimarlock, Porika, Maruia Saddle, and Mt Arthur are what make the DB better and more interesting that the 1000 mile DB the yanks do.

One of the key things we need to think about time of passing through various tracks/properties and also the availability of fuel. I'd much prefer not to have to arrange special permission for track access and arrange fuel dumps if at all possible.

Keep the ideas and feedback comming. The more input I get the more I can tailor it to what people want to do :niceone: The best bit is that I will have to go and ride the route to put together the roll chart and check that it is all doable ;)

Cheers R

[buggsubique]

What about staggered start locations? I know it wouldn't be as social, but if you had a small handful of riders from each region you could start in your own location, or the nearest part of the route and do your own lap, returning to your own location.

It would be a different ride for everyone (Porika in the dark?) and as such we'd get a range of ride reports.

For example, I thought about starting from home here in Blenheim and finishing here also. Saves the trip and accomm in Nelson.

I expect this idea to get mixed opinions.

[cooneyr]

What about staggered start locations? I know it wouldn't be as social, but if you had a small handful of riders from each region you could start in your own location, or the nearest part of the route and do your own lap, returning to your own location.

It would be a different ride for everyone (Porika in the dark?) and as such we'd get a range of ride reports.

For example, I thought about starting from home here in Blenheim and finishing here also. Saves the trip and accomm in Nelson.

I expect this idea to get mixed opinions.

Besides the social aspect there is one problem with this being the hours when you can go through various routes. The Molesworth and Rainbow are prime examples in that you cannot get through the gates before 7pm or after 7pm. This is a key reason why we cannot simply run the DB1k route backwards without some tinkering such as starting in Murcheson or thereabouts. Also if people start where they want and have this timing issue we then potentiall have people travelling the "wrong" way which becomes a safety issue.

Cheers R

[junkmanjoe]

just a tought.
but is it possable to do a coast to coast.....:no:
do i hear you :laugh::laugh:

sorry for being a northener.....

hmmm that gives me an idea.........

[jezzaNZ]

Thanks for the reminder but I'm aware of that one having done it twice. Motorpeddly is much more fun and less painful!



Also it needs to be more than just blasting along long gravel roads i.e. Haldon/Haka etc, we need some fun stuff like the Old woman range, Carricktown, Omarama Saddle etc.
Cheers R

I totally agree Ryan, ridding Danseys, Haka etc can get pretty boring after 2 or 3 times and something a little more technical would be preferable. Keeping in mind that the 160 odd km's through Molesworth and rainbow of the 09 Dusty was at a fast pace, consideration will be needed in how nuch time is need to tackle the more technical parts. For example Thompsans track would not be as fast as the Breaburn etc.

Another thought is the the more north the HQ is the better for those of us traveling down from the north......just saying thats all.

[Crisis management]

Another thought is the the more north the HQ is the better for those of us traveling down from the north......just saying thats all.

I agree with this, I'm hoping to do the DB next summer but it's touch & go at present and if it goes further south it really wouldnt be worth it for me. Actually, why not move it to central north island then it's even easier for me!



Ok, Ok, I'll shut up now.....

[warewolf]

Rainbow Rage (http://www.rainbowrage.co.nz/) is 20 March 2010.

There's also the Waiau School trailride (http://www.theride.co.nz/) 27-28 March 2010. Won't impact the DB route, but it's something a few of us dirtier advers should go to.

Keep the ideas coming, think of this as brainstorming, don't hold back. :laugh:

[Transalper]

...this timing issue we then potentially have people travelling the "wrong" way which becomes a safety issue.

Cheers RIs this any different to this years run with us trying to pick the best lines to cross the deep rain ruts etc while climbing up Mt Altimarlock when half a dozen others were trying to use the same lines to get back down the mountain?

[jezzaNZ]

You got it TA, the golden rule for organised trail rides is never ride in the opposite direction....ever. I seem to remember almost hitting Matt or Ian on the Maruia Saddle as they was coming back over on their way back to Nelson.

If possible have one single loop with no duplication of route....now there is a challange Ryan......

[Transalper]

You still can't stop other public traffic though, so the risk is still there, worse if you are rushing. Off seal it's all single lane width - two way roading, but that mountain with limited choices was an ass clincher as some of those big bikes were bearing down at me.

[jezzaNZ]

Totaly agree as they are all 2 way public roads but given we were the only users on a lot of them, I think the I would greatly reduce the odds of an accident.

Unfortunatly you are always going to heve a wide range of riding abilities and speeds on such events and it is up to the person who is passing to respect the other slower riders and not to roost the poor buggers.........:Pokey:

Hey at the end of the day I am not that fussed where or how we ride this event as long as we all have a great experience and can drink lots of beer afterwards and talk shit........Jez

[zeRax]

oh no!, if im to do it on a small cc bike id much rather it be the same track we know so far , EEP

[Racing Dave]

Keep left
Ride to the conditions
Pay attention

All basic stuff...

[cooneyr]

....coast to coast...

There use to be a 4x4 coast to coast event but not sure if that is still running. Not really that challenging though as it would have to involve lots of seal. Our hills and valleys significantly limit route choices.


I totally agree Ryan, ridding Danseys, Haka etc can get pretty boring after 2 or 3 times and something a little more technical would be preferable. Keeping in mind that the 160 odd km's through Molesworth and rainbow of the 09 Dusty was at a fast pace, consideration will be needed in how nuch time is need to tackle the more technical parts. For example Thompsans track would not be as fast as the Breaburn etc.

Another thought is the the more north the HQ is the better for those of us traveling down from the north......just saying thats all.

When I put together the last route I spent a bit of time estimated the travel times for each section depending on bendyness, surface etc and then included times for stops. I estimated 20 hours which is the average time for the first year but it seems to have come down a little!!


I agree with this, I'm hoping to do the DB next summer but it's touch & go at present and if it goes further south it really wouldnt be worth it for me....

Point taken but the best way to solve this may be to have two or three routes and move around them. We have used the northern route for three years now.


...Keep the ideas coming, think of this as brainstorming, don't hold back. :laugh:

You've got the idea. Thanks for the info on the RR and the trail ride.


...If possible have one single loop with no duplication of route....now there is a challange Ryan......

I've had a bit of a look at a otago route and think this may be possible. Still working on developing the route and understanding the seal vs gravel proportion, fuel distances etc.


You still can't stop other public traffic though, so the risk is still there, worse if you are rushing. Off seal it's all single lane width - two way roading, but that mountain with limited choices was an ass clincher as some of those big bikes were bearing down at me.

I agree that we all need to still take care when doing the ride but not having a route that involves both directions on the same road/track has got to be a good thing.

Cheers R

[Woodman]

Keep left
Ride to the conditions
Pay attention

All basic stuff...

What he said

[MXNUT]

I agree with this, I'm hoping to do the DB next summer but it's touch & go at present and if it goes further south it really wouldnt be worth it for me.

Same would apply to me i think, Central or Otago is just too far south.

[NordieBoy]

What he said

Watch out for trees.

[Padmei]

Same would apply to me i think, Central or Otago is just too far south.

same here. xmas in Nelson with the family this year. I may have to leave Otago ride for another time...

[Racing Dave]

In a word, variety. The more technical sections (Mangatapu, Black Birch, Porika x 2, even the corrugated Flora Saddle, and on a big bike they felt quite technical indeed), were well separated by the easier and more open sections, where heart and breathing returned to normal, and average speed improved. At various times I'd ridden the whole course, but never at one shot, so the chance to make a long day out of the route was most enjoyable, and certainly tiring, but in a good way.

If a more southern route is decided, I think it's important to keep the same principle of a mixed bag of difficult and straight forward sections. I would oppose, however, the suggestion that Big River be included, as it's just too narrow, rough, and most of all blind, to risk the two-way traffic. Of course a single full loop would be desirable and preferred, but in the real world we can only ride what is available, and 1000 km is a very long way when you're trying to keep the sealed portion to a minimum, yet not have any there-and-back additions.

Likewise, it's going to be impossible to pick a date and route that will suit all interested riders, so no doubt in due course, and taking into account all the suggestions given, you'll have to make a plan and it'll either work for each person, or not. That's why I went early for this year's DB1k, I couldn't get leave from work to ride on the day chosen. But no big deal, apart from the camaraderie missed, I still had a great day out.

Hopefully for 2010 I can get time off, but if not...the same again, I'll ride it when I can.

Cheers,
Dave B

[cooneyr]

In a word, variety. The more technical sections (Mangatapu, Black Birch, Porika x 2, even the corrugated Flora Saddle, and on a big bike they felt quite technical indeed), were well separated by the easier and more open sections, where heart and breathing returned to normal, and average speed improved. At various times I'd ridden the whole course, but never at one shot, so the chance to make a long day out of the route was most enjoyable, and certainly tiring, but in a good way.

If a more southern route is decided, I think it's important to keep the same principle of a mixed bag of difficult and straight forward sections. I would oppose, however, the suggestion that Big River be included, as it's just too narrow, rough, and most of all blind, to risk the two-way traffic. Of course a single full loop would be desirable and preferred, but in the real world we can only ride what is available, and 1000 km is a very long way when you're trying to keep the sealed portion to a minimum, yet not have any there-and-back additions.

Likewise, it's going to be impossible to pick a date and route that will suit all interested riders, so no doubt in due course, and taking into account all the suggestions given, you'll have to make a plan and it'll either work for each person, or not. That's why I went early for this year's DB1k, I couldn't get leave from work to ride on the day chosen. But no big deal, apart from the camaraderie missed, I still had a great day out.

Hopefully for 2010 I can get time off, but if not...the same again, I'll ride it when I can.

Cheers,
Dave B

Well said Dave re mixed bag and date. Big river wont be included any time soon - as you said too tight and blind as well as all the seal to get there.

I'm still pottering withing a Otago route just so I have an idea up my sleave. I agree that the ride needs to be a mix of challanges and easy going and so far this is looking good. I'm also trying to include a couple of scenic spots and some nice flowing gravel roads. I'm still thinking though fuel stop spacings, and the starting point so that we are not waking up the locals at either end of the day as we roar past. So far the route has only a little bit of overlap (will be a either end of the day) but no back tracking (in and out) :niceone:

We respect to location I'm inclined to head to Otago as we have used the Marlbrough/Tasman route for three years now and I'm inclined to offer those who have had ago at the DB a new route in preferance to staying in the same place for those who haven't done the DB yet. In saying this the most diplomatic way to decide this would be to run a poll. If I am happy that the Otago route is a good one then I'll start a poll - watch this space. If I can't come up with a good Otago routem, I'll think further about how we can reverse the Marlbrough/Tasman route so there is some difference to the route and still work in with the opening hours for the Rainbow and Molesworth

Cheers R

[Racing Dave]

Here are my thoughts on routes that might make up a southern version. Obviously far longer than necessary, but shows that the sealed part can easily be brought down below one third of the distance, there are plenty of choices (including several not mentioned in this route, eg Lake Onslow, the eastern half of the Old Dunstan Trail, roads around Lake Mahinerangi), and that the more difficult parts can be ridden in daylight.

Just suggestions for Ryan, who no doubt has already considered most if not all of them. I'm purely joining them up to see what might work.

Start and finish in Methven, cumulative distances estimated only, with the course as follows:

Methven to Glenfalloch Station, via Double Hill Run Road, 70 km (20 km sealed).

Glenfalloch to Lake Heron Station, via private 4WD track (usually $10 fee to pay), 95 km (20 sealed).

Lake Heron to Mount Somers township, via Hakatere and Ashburton Gorge Road, 145 km (45 km sealed).

Mt Somers to Geraldine via mix of roads, 220 km (75 km sealed).

Geraldine to Cave via The Brothers (4WD track, paper road) 300 km (105 km sealed)

Cave to Cattle Creek, via Albury, Mackenzie Pass, and Hakataramea Pass 390 km (125 km sealed).

Cattle Creek to Kurow, via Menzies Road and 4WD track (paper road), through Pentland Hills and Meyers Pass, down the east side of the Haka River 460 km (130 km sealed).

Kurow to Naseby via Duntroon and Danseys Pass 550 km (170 km sealed).

Naseby to Alexandra via Ranfurly, Paerau, Old Dunstan Trail, Poolburn, Moa Creek, Galloway 650 km (180 km sealed).

Alexandra to Nevis Crossing via Earnscleugh and pylon track (paper road) 700 km (200 km sealed)

Nevis Crossing return, to Garston via Nevis road (two-way traffic, but open terrain) 800 km (200 km sealed)

Nevis Crossing to Cromwell via Carrick Walking Track (4WD, but vehicle status unclear) 830 km (210 km sealed)

Cromwell to St Bathans via Thompsons Gorge and mix of roads 900 km (250 km sealed)

St Bathans to Omarama, via Omarama Saddle (4WD track, paper road but public access easement) 965 km (270 km sealed)

Omarama to Burkes Pass via Otematata, Black Forest Station (private, good with permission, usually $5 fee to pay) 1090 km (300 km sealed)

Burkes Pass to Methven, via mix of roads through Ashwick Flat, Middle Valley, Kakahu, Geraldine, Carew, Lismore, and Ashburton Forks 1250 km (340 km sealed)

[junkmanjoe]

mate hope its not turning in to a DB10K ride.
i might need a bigger fuel tank...

[cooneyr]

Here are my thoughts on routes that might make up a southern version.

Thanks for the suggestions Dave. I've incorperated many of the more southern sections (Fairlie south) and other southern tracks/roads and was thinking of a more southern starting point. Given the comments on here there would be an advantage to having a more northerly starting point though.

Cheers R

[BMWST?]

Sounds like a plan, that way I would get to deal to my unfinished business with the Nevis and Dunstan!!!! Just a thought, base it in Twizel and take the following rought - Twizel - across Tekapo river to Halden Arm - Black Forrest Rd - Danseys - Ranfurly - Dunstan Trail - Lake Onslow - Roxburgh - Nevis - Queenstown (late lunch) - something in between - Tarras - Thompsons - St Bathans - Omarama Saddle - Twizel.

Probably need a little more gravel in between tracks listed above especially from Garston. Would make for a big exciting day with plenty of water crossings and Omarama Saddle in the dark.......yeh baby!

Just my 2 cents worth. Jez

something in between = crown range and maybe up to the top of cardrona,or other ski feild roads...but that would introduce the risk of bikes going both ways

[jezzaNZ]

eah thought about Crown range but it is all seal but interesting, other option might be Skippers as a detour? Jez

[cooneyr]

As Jezza said the Crown Range is now completely sealed otherwise it would have been perfect. Still a fun road but not gravel.

Skifield are possibly not so bad but skippers is from the perspective of two way traffic/bikes. Any of these routes would be in and out and I recon that keeping heading forward i.e. no back tracking, helps your keep your head in the right place (mentally) when doing a 1000kms ride.

I've got two good starting routes, being Daves and mine/Jezza's ideas, to investigate for the time being. Keep the thinking hats on though!

Cheers R

[warewolf]

I recon that keeping heading forward i.e. no back tracking, helps your keep your head in the right place (mentally) when doing a 1000kms ride. Couple of years ago the Rusty Nuts did a 1000 miler route like a starfish: out and back to the basecamp 4 or 5 times, returning along the outbound route. It is known that stopping at home for a restful kip is a showstopper, too hard to get back on the bike again. This route mind-fucked LOTS of people, including the experienced. This effect was expected, and was avoided then done because ppl thought the event was getting too easy.

[cooneyr]

Couple of years ago the Rusty Nuts did a 1000 miler route like a starfish: out and back to the basecamp 4 or 5 times, returning along the outbound route. It is known that stopping at home for a restful kip is a showstopper, too hard to get back on the bike again. This route mind-fucked LOTS of people, including the experienced. This effect was expected, and was avoided then done because ppl thought the event was getting too easy.

Interesting comment WW. Seems I'm not the only one who notices this. This is one of the reasons I don't like the Murch/Springs/Murch leg.

Cheers R

[Underground]

dont get hung up on this in out on the same road thing ,I'm always riding the same route -French Pass to nelson via Maungatapu or Wangamoas and roads are completely different in the opposite direction .
I never think 'oh no ! now I have to ride home on the same road again'
I found the double leg on the last DB to be a good chance (and the only chance ) to orient ourselves with the front runners - ie who's still going ,and how far ahead of us are they ?
I must admit it was most gratifing to catch a bunch of them recovering the GS at the top of the Porika , after having met them in the opposite direction so long ago (slow and steady wins the race)

[Padmei]

I agree with UG. The there & back parts were great. a good ride is often even better when you get to see it form the other way. Porika was intersting to ride both ways & the braeburn & Maruia was fantastic.

We on the 2 day slowed down on the way back thru Maruia to take in the scenery that we missed focussing on getting thru there quickly the 1st time.

The only thing I'm working out is how to arrive at the accomodation at the lake earlier than 9pm for nachos. I'd personally like more chill out time at the end of the day - however that's my prob to find a solution to.

All in all I think the DB rules!

One thing that I'm unsure to bring up is that many motoing Nelsonians I've talked to after the DB have never heard about it & would have been keen to do it (I know that is the usual response after hearing about an event with out having to deal with the logistics & planning of actually doing it)

My long winded point is, do you want to advertise it more or keep it reasonably quiet within the KB community. I can see the pros & cons of both sides but interested in your veiws Ryan

Mmmmm nachos....

[NordieBoy]

I must admit it was most gratifing to catch a bunch of them recovering the GS at the top of the Porika

And I didn't even get any photos :(

[NordieBoy]

The only thing I'm working out is how to arrive at the accomodation at the lake earlier than 9pm for nachos. I'd personally like more chill out time at the end of the day - however that's my prob to find a solution to.

Easy. No accidents or punctures or drownings or rain allowed.

[Transalper]

...
The only thing I'm working out is how to arrive at the accomodation at the lake earlier than 9pm for nachos. I'd personally like more chill out time at the end of the day - however that's my prob to find a solution to......
I heard there was a lot of long coffee breaks on the two dayer, more and longer than in previous years.
Fact is the two dayer is still a biggish ride for each day and you still have to push on a bit to get to the destinations at a reasonable hour.
Having seen how late you all passed us broken down ones in the middle of the rainbow we were saying to ourselves wow you guys are going to be late arriving at the lake knowing how far you still had to go and realising what kind of overall pace you must have been doing to pass us then.

I'll be in to the two day events from now on. If things are going too slow I'll break away with you to make up a bit of time.
Punctures and drownings don't help, but they are all part of it and you just have to treat them as rest stops and make the rest of your stops a bit shorter or push on a bit to compensate.

[cooneyr]

dont get hung up on this in out on the same road thing ....
.... I found the double leg on the last DB to be a good chance (and the only chance ) to orient ourselves with the front runners - ie who's still going ,and how far ahead of us are they ?....

I'm not "hung up" on removing the there and back completely but we need to be careful about which tracks are there and back. I'm not particularly happy about the two way route via the Mariua saddle because of the limited visibility but because of the low speeds it not too much of an issue. A two way route with high speeds and not sufficient sight distance is not a good idea. I'm probably over engineering this a little but better to think about it than not I recon.

Your right though it is a good way of figuring out how far ahead those up front are.


....All in all I think the DB rules!...

Thanks for the comment. It's good to hear that it's worth the effort.


...My long winded point is, do you want to advertise it more or keep it reasonably quiet within the KB community. I can see the pros & cons of both sides but interested in your veiws Ryan

The DB1k started as a small bunch of KB'ers and has slowly grown over the past three years. First year was a failure (in that we didn't finish but it was a good learning experiance), second year all finished which proved it could be done then a whole heap more gave it ago last year. I think now the concept is proved and I expect that the numbers will grow. I'm not planning on promoting the ride cause there is no money to do this and if numbers get too large things like the pre ride BBQ and accommodation become an issue. If people hear about it by word of mouth etc they are more than welcome to come along. There was about 3 or 4 non KB'er that came along this year.

Re the money thing if people were to start paying an entry fee I could promote the ride, have organised catering etc but I'd also have more liability issues i.e. I'd have to obtain insurance. It seems to me that the way it is now there are just a bunch of mates going for a ride not expecting anything in terms of first aid support, safety issues resolved (though signage or otherwise), support if a bike brakes down etc so I perceive (rightly or wrongly) there to be no liability issues for me. Also the "on your own"ness of it all makes it much more of a challenge I recon. It also makes riders more inclined to make sure they and their bike are up to the task rather than thinking "she'll be right".

What are others thoughts on entry fees, promoting the ride, liability (have I interpreted the situation right?) entry numbers etc. Be aware that if this becomes too much hassle re insurances, promoting etc I'm not that inclined to spend the time as it would involve significantly more time than it currently does.

Thanks for bring this stuff up cause it is exactly what I'd like feedback on.

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Smaller/shorter breaks would make it at least an hour earlier at the end of the day.

It could quite easily go the way of the 1-dayer with a couple of groups of similar speed riders.


I heard there was a lot of long coffee breaks on the two dayer, more and longer than in previous years.
Fact is the two dayer is still a biggish ride for each day and you still have to push on a bit to get to the destinations at a reasonable hour.
Having seen how late you all passed us broken down ones in the middle of the rainbow we were saying to ourselves wow you guys are going to be late arriving at the lake knowing how far you still had to go and realising what kind of overall pace you must have been doing to pass us then.

I'll be in to the two day events from now on. If things are going too slow I'll break away with you to make up a bit of time.
Punctures and drownings don't help, but they are all part of it and you just have to treat them as rest stops and make the rest of your stops a bit shorter or push on a bit to compensate.

[junkmanjoe]

for my self, ex Rakaia farm worker. ( bankside station)

for me, most of the top of south island is, and will be new country to me.
so i wish to take in as much secenry and watch the road as well.
i can set a good pace if i have to, but if i feel i have to rush to get to the other end, other than set a tidy pace, it will become unenjoyable.
im happy to pay an entry fee, we pay for coast access up here, from $10-15 per head, thats ok, because its land not avalable to joe blogs..

ive heard all the stories about this ride.
and very keen to ride it my self.

so keep up the good work.
im looking forward to the day.

[BMWST?]

I say make it much more complex Ryan.Then someone may be able to take a certain bike for a test ride!

[Padmei]

Smaller/shorter breaks would make it at least an hour earlier at the end of the day.

It could quite easily go the way of the 1-dayer with a couple of groups of similar speed riders.

I personally don't think I would like to ride any faster on the 2 day as I thought we had a good brisk safe pace whilst moving. We did stop a lot early on the ride tho - maybe leave at 5am?.
I will prob drop out after coming back from Maruia on day2 but not sure what to drop on day1... onamalutu?...

[buggsubique]

I heard there was a lot of long coffee breaks on the two dayer, more and longer than in previous years.
Fact is the two dayer is still a biggish ride for each day and you still have to push on a bit to get to the destinations at a reasonable hour.
Having seen how late you all passed us broken down ones in the middle of the rainbow we were saying to ourselves wow you guys are going to be late arriving at the lake knowing how far you still had to go and realising what kind of overall pace you must have been doing to pass us then.

I'll be in to the two day events from now on. If things are going too slow I'll break away with you to make up a bit of time.
Punctures and drownings don't help, but they are all part of it and you just have to treat them as rest stops and make the rest of your stops a bit shorter or push on a bit to compensate.

Agreed. Best thing to do is set your own ETA's and expected / planned breaks. Planning. Then adjust during the ride as needed to keep close to the intended plan.

[buggsubique]

What are others thoughts on entry fees, promoting the ride, liability (have I interpreted the situation right?) entry numbers etc. Be aware that if this becomes too much hassle re insurances, promoting etc I'm not that inclined to spend the time as it would involve significantly more time than it currently does.

Thanks for bring this stuff up cause it is exactly what I'd like feedback on.

Cheers R

I reckon keep it "underground". in the end i guess it is inevitable it will gain mass, but an "organised" ride like this would just be carnage wouldn't it? 50 - 100 bikes going through molesworth, descending on gas stations, crossing porika / maruia etc. I guess I don't see any real merit in it being promoted is my point. Ryan has given us something good here that we can indulge in, why share it!?:girlfight:

[junkmanjoe]

may be put a cap on number off bike, say 30-35.

i put a cap on my last coast ride at 15 bikes.

was a easy group to keep an eye on, as it was private land.

all were behaved...

just a thought.

[warewolf]

Interesting comment WW. Seems I'm not the only one who notices this. This is one of the reasons I don't like the Murch/Springs/Murch leg.It was more the back-to-base-and-out-for-more that was the issue, not the re-tracing your wheel tracks.

I'm not fussed by the repeat. I agree with the others that liked to see where other people were, and that the roads were different going the other way. My reluctance to put riders on a two-way route is balanced by the fact that we are on public roads not closed-course conditions. Thoughts and discussion is the way to go.

On Black Birch today, I was thinking that it should be advertised as 'single bike lane, be prepared to stop and give way at any time' because although you can get a car up there, in many places you wouldn't really want to be using one of the wheel tracks. It's really eroded out big time. It's okay if you're happy riding in foot-deep ruts and over foot-high rocks, otherwise you are going to use the right-hand wheel track at times.


The suggestions about the 2-day timing were all about reducing chin-wagging stops, not riding faster. Chat at the end of the day over a beer, rather than en-route.

[Woodman]

Ryan , do you know anything about this Doughboy road?
possible route to stop a doubleback on the dusty, I haven't done it but was flicking through my tasman rural address book and spotted it.
followed it on google maps and it seems to disapear for a while.
You probarbly already know of it but fyi anyway.
Worth an explore one day.

[cooneyr]

Ryan , do you know anything about this Doughboy road?
possible route to stop a doubleback on the dusty, I haven't done it but was flicking through my tasman rural address book and spotted it.
followed it on google maps and it seems to disapear for a while.
You probarbly already know of it but fyi anyway.
Worth an explore one day.

Wasn't aware of it possibly linking right through but had seen the Murch end and thought where does that go. On the list to be investigated further :niceone:

Cheers R

[helenoftroy]

All in all I think the DB rules!

Mmmmm nachos....
It was an awesome adventure for me!!loved it:msn-wink:
Food tasted extra good that night:msn-wink:

Easy. No accidents or punctures or drownings or rain allowed.
:doh:I didnt like the drowning much either!


ive heard all the stories about this ride.
and very keen to ride it my self.

so keep up the good work.
im looking forward to the day.

Lifes for living......hope I get to do it again too(with some female company maybe??)

[Padmei]

Well well well if it isn't the little river princess herself popping her head up:love:

How have ya been & been getting the DR out much? Hopefully next year Mrs Jatz' Ten will be running & Mygsx will have a bike to ride to prop up the female numbers.

I'm gonna keep a spare pair of dry boots in the truck next time- my toes have only just started to unwrinkle:shutup:

[cooneyr]

I've put together two Otago routes for the DB1k. The first one I wasn't too excited about. The second one I like quite a lot. The prefered route is around about 1100kms and about 840km of gravel (to be confirmed with a ride over). This is about 76% gravel/dirt as opposed to the 53% (550kms) for the current route.

It doesn't have any Mangatapu, Porika, Mt Arthur type challenges but it does have a lot more creek crossings, more rutted and possibly muddy if wet tracks, Omarama saddle and some really nice flowing gravel roads.

Starting/finishing point would be Fairlie where there is a reasonable range of accommodation options and it is reasonably central for all to get too i.e. within a days ride from anywhere in the SI.

Using a similar process as last time to calc travel times I recon about 19.5 hours including 6 fuel stops for smaller fuel tanked bikes (max range needed 180kms) or 18.5 hours with four stops for larger fuel tanked bikes (max range of 340kms).

Looking good for a two day ride as well as heaps to see along the way.

Cheers R

[helenoftroy]

Well well well if it isn't the little river princess herself popping her head up:love:

How have ya been & been getting the DR out much? Hopefully next year Mrs Jatz' Ten will be running & Mygsx will have a bike to ride to prop up the female numbers.

I'm gonna keep a spare pair of dry boots in the truck next time- my toes have only just started to unwrinkle:shutup:

The river Princess will do her utmost not to repeat the dunking:Oops:but maybe she should provide thigh high waders for the burly rescuer just in case?:innocent:

Trusty DR is going just fine,tho slightly sidelined with a new toy,a bucket racer!!:wari:

Cooneyr...all sounds very exciting!

[Paladin]

Well well well if it isn't the little river princess herself popping her head up:love:

How have ya been & been getting the DR out much? Hopefully next year Mrs Jatz' Ten will be running & Mygsx will have a bike to ride to prop up the female numbers.

I'm gonna keep a spare pair of dry boots in the truck next time- my toes have only just started to unwrinkle:shutup:

We''ll have to see if us norverners can encourage some NI female additions too; surely we can get Rosie to come at least! :niceone:

[NordieBoy]

Trusty DR is going just fine,tho slightly sidelined with a new toy,a bucket racer!!:wari:

Too big for the small bike challenge :D

[buggsubique]

Looking good for a two day ride as well as heaps to see along the way.

Cheers R

I reckon at that I'd be considering the 2 dayer - take it all in, lower risk, enjoy the riding a little more. 1000km in one day was awesome, glad to have done it, but slightly longer ride, slightly more gravel, might as well make the most of it. Does sound good though!

[cooneyr]

Lot of water to go under the bridge between now and then but I'm quite keen on doing the two day ride pillioning my wife. I've done most of the tracks in the last few years and it should be pretty easy to do this. If our circumstances change then I'll be looking at doing it on a 125.

Either way the scenery is so different (compared to the Northern SI route) and spectacular plus there is heaps of historic mining places along the Otago route. Things like mine shafts you can have a look in, at least two quartz stampers, one of which still has its water wheel. The only complete stamper/water wheel I've found that is still at its orignal site. Both stampers are off the route slightly and need walking too. A further water wheel that can be seen from the track. The highest altitude church in the country, lots and lots of stone mining huts/houses, and other mine sites with tailings etc. Also we would go past some stone fence posts which are really unique and there is quite a few dams (Benmore being the largest) and associated power generation/transmission gear that we would pass.

There is a plaque in the church that reads something like this - "At a service to be held at this church the minister arived hours late and the congregation had reconvened to the nearest public bar. By the time the minister started the sermon the congregation had had a bit to drink and so called for an encore" - or something like that. Very unique place.

Seems I dont need much more convincing to do the Otago route this year - do you??? What is the general feeling (not much point in running a poll this far out, I'll do it later in the year)

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Seems I dont need much more convincing to do the Otago route this year - do you??? What is the general feeling (not much point in running a poll this far out, I'll do it later in the year)

I'd say go Otago for the "official" DB1k10.

But for those who can't make it, an "unoffical" 2-day running of the "old" course would be quite easy to organise :scooter:

[Transalper]

I'm keener to go south.
Reckon we should do South. Forget the poll. The Northern info is still there if others who want to go that way want to organise themselves to go North without us.

[jim.cox]

I'm keen

But will have to find a suitable bike

[cooneyr]

Good call Nordie and TA. Others who want to do the Northern route could do so as the info is out there (here (http://www.advroutes.org.nz/DB1k.html)) and we can simply make the Otago the "official" DB1k 10 route. Any other thoughts on this approach?


I'm keen

But will have to find a suitable bike

I'm sure the duck with its narrow tyres would make it. Might look a little shabby at the end though. Oh and you had better make sure the electrics are well waterproofed :bleh:

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Good call Nordie and TA. Others who want to do the Northern route could do so as the info is out there (here (http://www.advroutes.org.nz/DB1k.html)) and we can simply make the Otago the "official" DB1k 10 route. Any other thoughts on this approach?

I want to do it on my own bike, in comfort this time :spanking:

At the moment I'm up for both DB's.

[junkmanjoe]

sign me up where ever it is, north or south.

[NordieBoy]

sign me up where ever it is, north or south.

Quite possibly North and South.

[Woodman]

I am keen on both, 2 db's are always better than one.

[junkmanjoe]

is it a 5 day ride now, with one day in between to travel to next event..... think i might need more time off work...........sweet...:2thumbsup:2thumbsup

[BMWST?]

sounds absolutely awesome Ryan.In fact it sounds like it would be a good two day ride to see and investigate some of the places you mention seperate from the db1k!

[jim.cox]

I'm sure the duck with its narrow tyres would make it. Might look a little shabby at the end though. Oh and you had better make sure the electrics are well waterproofed



Believe me, I am considering using the old girl.

Her tall narrow tyres and long wheelbase ensure she's good on gravel. I've had her in to Skippers ok.

But I think the plush (not) marzocchis and luxury italian oak upholstery would mean a buised rather than dusty butt.

Are you considering the Nevis road? 'cos there a couple of crossings on that which would be too deep for me

[MXNUT]

Quite possibly North and South.

Sounds like we might be spoilt for choice.

I think that i may only be able to do the north option this time as the south option would require too much travel for me.

[zeRax]

so RYAN is the DB1k 2010 going to be down south yonder? done NO riding down there, is it going to be more longer gravel sections high speed stuff?


cause, i think i have found me a postie bike...... :P hope im not going to be the only chump on 125cc or less, fook !

failing that i might just do it on the klx again, the CT110 is going to be an awesome bike for my missus to learn on, woohoo excited, HEY MATT you wouldnt believe it, tammy on two wheels EEEP hehe

[cooneyr]

so RYAN is the DB1k 2010 going to be down south yonder? done NO riding down there, is it going to be more longer gravel sections high speed stuff?


cause, i think i have found me a postie bike...... :P hope im not going to be the only chump on 125cc or less, fook !

failing that i might just do it on the klx again, the CT110 is going to be an awesome bike for my missus to learn on, woohoo excited, HEY MATT you wouldnt believe it, tammy on two wheels EEEP hehe

Looking likely the Otago route will be the "official" route. The seems to be a bit of interest in an Otago route and the northern route. Bro and I are still keeping an eye out for a 125 or less so hopefully there will be more than one. A postie has to be the bike to do it on :niceone:

Around August I'll work on surveying the route (what a pain that will be :D) to put the roll chart together and will make more noise about it then.

Cheers R

[zeRax]

Ok cool, just paid for a shiney 2003 CT110, doesnt have Hi Lo but from an article i read i dont think i will need it, failing that theres always transplants :) WOOOHOO

[Peril]

Looking likely the Otago route will be the "official" route. The seems to be a bit of interest in an Otago route and the northern route. Bro and I are still keeping an eye out for a 125 or less so hopefully there will be more than one. A postie has to be the bike to do it on :niceone:

Cheers R

Have you still got that Chaly? That'd be a hoot,although very slow.The 70cc version would be a bit more bareable or is that the one you've got already?
This has got me thinking now :D

[cooneyr]

Have you still got that Chaly? That'd be a hoot,although very slow.The 70cc version would be a bit more bareable or is that the one you've got already?
This has got me thinking now :D

Yep still got the chaly in bits in the shed. It is a 50 (has to be reg as a motorbike though) which is pathetic but I'd love to stick a 125 in it. Problem is it then needs low volume certification to wof/register it. Last estimate was about $1k to get it on the road in reasonable shape with a 125. Would be cool little adv/commuting bike. Might need to strengthen the foot peg bar though - tends to bend a bit with 110kgs on it:whistle:

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Ok cool, just paid for a shiney 2003 CT110, doesnt have Hi Lo but from an article i read i dont think i will need it, failing that theres always transplants :) WOOOHOO

Officially you only need low beam...

[NordieBoy]

Yep still got the chaly in bits in the shed. It is a 50 (has to be reg as a motorbike though) which is pathetic but I'd love to stick a 125 in it.

Actually if you loosen up the throttle cables so it can't go past 50 odd kph then they can be registered as a moped.

It's just not much fun on the beach with all the power now available though.

You could also strap it onto the back of the XTZ so you couldn't be called a trailer faggot :D

[zeRax]

Officially you only need low beam...


No no no, doesnt have the 8 speeds- Hi low 4 speed box, just the postie 4 speed box, but i dont think That will be a problem, first gear will be low enough !, specially for me and the missus eep,

not hi low headlight :P, although because its a 2003 it has 12vdc, so i will be having my HID spotlight on it :) wicked sick mental etc ;D, hey Fran, do u still have that big XR tank? i could borrow it for the dusty perhaps ;]?

[NordieBoy]

hey Fran, do u still have that big XR tank? i could borrow it for the dusty perhaps ;]?

That may well be bodged on to my 125...

I don't have a 125 yet but maybe I could restrict the 250's carb by 50%.

[zeRax]

no no thats illegal and doesnt count :P, just like the nice nice XL125s on trademe that looks mint bored to 145cc, i was so tempted, but id feel so guilty !!! :( couldnt do it, postie all the way

[buggsubique]

think I'll be going tail end charlie and strappin yer little scooters to me engine bars when yis break down, knees ache beyond the help of voltaren and yer will t'ride fell out yer rear end 200 km's ago...:Punk:

[Peril]

Trade me seems to be a bit light on road legal sub 125cc bikes that are cheap enough to not care about destroying.
Who is the one asking Q's about that Kawasaki farm bike?

[NordieBoy]

think I'll be going tail end charlie and strappin yer little scooters to me engine bars when yis break down, knees ache beyond the help of voltaren and yer will t'ride fell out yer rear end 200 km's ago...:Punk:

Dunno. Jatz'zzz 125 has got a very comfortable seat.

[cooneyr]

Trade me seems to be a bit light on road legal sub 125cc bikes that are cheap enough to not care about destroying.
Who is the one asking Q's about that Kawasaki farm bike?

I agree. Got an automatic search set up that emails me new listings and all I get is scooters. Not really going to cut the mustard on a adv route with lots of water crossings etc.

Cheers R

[warewolf]

Carry it across, hold it above your head

[cooneyr]

Carry it across, hold it above your head

I could but I'd get wet booties then :bleh:

[Skinny_Birdman]

I watched the Top Gear 'Vietnam special' the other night, and now I am sort of keen for the lo-cc challenge. I reckon a nice legal AG100 would do the job.... We had a legal one at a farm I used to work on, I wonder how many others get/continue to be registered. Thankfully my own big bore AG175 is safely in Dunedin with my sister now, or I'd be frantically removing the '175' decals off the side panels.... Will there be enough postie bikes and GN/SR 125s to go round, I wonder? They do seem scarce, at the budget I am thinking of.

[NordieBoy]

CG125 - That's the beastie to look for.

[Racing Dave]

By lucky chance, I just happen to have one of those in my garage...

[cooneyr]

More ideas needed. Has anybody got any good ideas for accommodation for the two day riders in the area around Lake Onslow, Lake Poolburn, Alexandra? We could just stay at motels or camping grounds but that really isn't in the spirit of the DB1k to date.

Access to a one big or a couple of smaller bachs (or is it crib down that way) at Lake Onslow or Lake Poolburn would be more fitting. Shearer's quarters would also be an option.

Cheers R

[zeRax]

hey ryan~~~, do you have a route planned out on google maps or anything? just wondering how many hills there are hehe

[cooneyr]

Plan for tonight - have a bit of a read of KB, have tea and then work on a web page for the Otago route as per the current one (http://www.advroutes.org.nz/DB1k.html) on my web site. Not planning on doing topomaps for it just yet though.

I started on this in the weekend but am having to remember how to think like a HTML geek again. Hopefully have this completed tonight all going well.

A more direct answer is that there will be one Mangatapu esk hill and a few Jacks Pass esk hills. Nothing to serious for the CT but none of the SBC bikes will be fast up them.

Cheers R

[timg]

Ya finished yet??

[timg]

Huh? :wait: :wait: :wait:

[NordieBoy]

Comeon...
It's been 2 hours already...
We can't hang around all night...

[zeRax]

we dont pay you to sit around drinking and eating!, should have finished 2 hours ago !

hehe,

cheers heaps ryan, you are the man

[cooneyr]

Well at 1030 I finished the page but I've not stuck it up cause I need a little time to make sure it will work and I've remembered to update all the links etc. Biggest PITA was connecting all the little bits in the first route file to form one long route as needed for the website.

Cant do it at work any more, literally - employer is way to draconian with web access i.e. cant access my FTP site, so will have to be tonight.

Nothing like a bit of anticipation aye :msn-wink:

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Anitci.........pation.








Thank you Frank N Furter.

[cooneyr]

Anitci.........pation.

Thank you Frank N Furter.

Wondered if anybody would make that connection LOL.

I should be at home at 4.30 today will hopefully have the page up by 5. Is this enough detail for you lot - ya bloody slave drivers!

Cheers R

[BMWST?]

Wondered if anybody would make that connection LOL.

I should be at home at 4.30 today will hopefully have the page up by 5. Is this enough detail for you lot - ya bloody slave drivers!

Cheers R

when is the scopeing /checking/recce ride ?

[cooneyr]

when is the scopeing /checking/recce ride ?

Plan at this stage is for some time in Aug/Oct to do the scoping ride. Ride will be two up with my wife on the back as note taker for the roll chart and auto gate opener. Will probably take 3 or 4 longish days at the slow pace we will be able to achieve. Plan is to scope some possible alternatives and some overnight places for the 2 day riders at the same time.

I'll post more details closer to the time if anybody is interested but it will not be a normal ride with lots of stopped time.

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Will probably take 3 or 4 longish days at the slow pace we will be able to achieve.

Slower than SBC speed?

[cooneyr]

Slower than SBC speed?

Yep probably. On the SBC you wont have to stop and write down KM's, instructions and draw diagrams at every important intersection and obstacle! I also doubt that we'll be much faster between the points two up with 3 nights worth of gear.

Cheers R

[cooneyr]

Right you basdages - new front end page here (http://www.advroutes.org.nz/) and DB1k Southern South Island (http://www.advroutes.org.nz/DB1kSSI.html) here. Topomaps to come but a google map with the route over laid is currently on the DB1k SSI page.

Ideas are still welcome but I'm pretty happy with this route.

Cheers R

[XF650]

Fantastic route Ryan.
Any ideas on dates yet?

[NordieBoy]

Yep probably. On the SBC you wont have to stop and write down KM's, instructions and draw diagrams at every important intersection and obstacle! I also doubt that we'll be much faster between the points two up with 3 nights worth of gear.

Cheers R

Stop?
I thought you were going to have a co-pilot.

[cooneyr]

Fantastic route Ryan.
Any ideas on dates yet?

Daylight hours are still pretty critical to the event so late December early January is the ideal time. I'm keen on after New Years for family reasons so the 3rd/4th or 9th/10th work for me. Bit to early to fix a date just yet I think but I'll run a poll in a few months.

Cheers R

[BMWST?]

Plan at this stage is for some time in Aug/Oct to do the scoping ride. Ride will be two up with my wife on the back as note taker for the roll chart and auto gate opener. Will probably take 3 or 4 longish days at the slow pace we will be able to achieve. Plan is to scope some possible alternatives and some overnight places for the 2 day riders at the same time.

I'll post more details closer to the time if anybody is interested but it will not be a normal ride with lots of stopped time.

Cheers R
I would be keen to have a look/help out.

[cooneyr]

For those that are interested, have another look at the DB1k Southern South Island Page (http://www.advroutes.org.nz/db1kssi.html). I've been working on some Points Of Interest (POI) that the two day riders might like to stop and have a look at. I've got plans for 16 more POI's (total of 20 POI's) - the one dayers wont have time to see many if any! Sorry about some of the photos, they are all from my personal collection, including some of the photos from our 2002 or 2003 4wd trips in a ex-military 109v8 soft top long wheel base Landy.

If the page, specifically the POI, aren't working properly please let me know

Cheers R

[buggsubique]

Daylight hours are still pretty critical to the event so late December early January is the ideal time. I'm keen on after New Years for family reasons so the 3rd/4th or 9th/10th work for me. Bit to early to fix a date just yet I think but I'll run a poll in a few months.

Cheers R

I think the Yammie safari is on here in Marlb 9-10Jan for those not awesome enough to live here...

[cooneyr]

I think the Yammie safari is on here in Marlb 9-10Jan for those not awesome enough to live here...

Thanks for reminding me of that. No point in running both on the same weekend.

Cheers R

[cooneyr]

Plans are starting to form. This is a heads up and not a definate but my bro and I are currently thinking of Labour weekend for the DB1k roll chart prep run. This gives us our Canterbury Show weekend as backup.

Latest plan is to put together a roll chart using maps on the computer and just ammend it where necessary on the ride. Hopefuly this will keep speeds up during the ride and minimise stopped time.

Both my bro and I are likely to be two up with our partners and I intend on getting more photos and GPS waypoints of the Points of Interest i.e. having a look around. This will be a farily relaxed, see the secenery trip. I'm expecting that we might head to Fairlie on the Friday afternoon and will start the ride on the Sat morning with the intention of doing about 350km a day for three days and then running back up the blacktop to Chch on the Monday evening. Intermediate stops will probably be at Lawrence and Cromwell.

Cheers R

[Jantar]

More ideas needed. Has anybody got any good ideas for accommodation for the two day riders in the area around Lake Onslow, Lake Poolburn, Alexandra? We could just stay at motels or camping grounds but that really isn't in the spirit of the DB1k to date.

Access to a one big or a couple of smaller bachs (or is it crib down that way) at Lake Onslow or Lake Poolburn would be more fitting. Shearer's quarters would also be an option.

Cheers R
Plenty of room for camping at our place in Alexandra, but I might have a contact for the use of a woolshed at Poolburn. Its one we have used on the Cavalcade a couple of times.

[cooneyr]

Plenty of room for camping at our place in Alexandra, but I might have a contact for the use of a woolshed at Poolburn. Its one we have used on the Cavalcade a couple of times.

Thanks for the offer and info. I'll be checking out the options over the labour weekend prerun so might have to try and catch up with you then.

Cheers R