Db1k 10 sbc

[El scooto]

Dusty Butt 1000km Small Bore Challenge

Alright you lot! Who's in for the long haul (literally)

Been looking a potential stead's for a wee while now and have recently found a suitable one.
1973 Yamaha LT2 100cc smoker.

Pick it up tomorrow so will post pics then.

Show us your baby adventure bikes!

Cheers
John

[Peril]

Well,it's got a nice horn (found the trademe ad) ;)

[buggsubique]

Where's the poll with statements like:
1. uhuh, no way, not now not ever,
2. I'm crazy but I'm not that crazy,
3. You lot are mad,
4. see you at the finish line...in a few days time!

[El scooto]

Well,it's got a nice horn (found the trademe ad) ;)

Yep it's probably the most laughable bit of it! Not that the whole thing isn't. Feel's like a motorised mountain bike after the ten.

Hmmm a poll....

cheers

[cooneyr]

LOL - this is gonna be awesome. :clap:

Got my wife and brother-in-law interested as well. Will be another few months before wifey and I buy bikes but keeping an eye out in the mean time.

The magic number is 41.7kph - as in average travel speed including stopped time. If you just take into account moving time it is 45kph if you allow 22 of travelling i.e. 2 hours of stopped time.

Cheers R

[timmehpwr]

*laughs at zerax's little bike that is sitting in my garage*

[zeRax]

oh, just realised u posted, haha, cant wait to ride the beast this weekend ;D

ct110 of pure lack of power and over achievagenessessesss ;D

[cooneyr]

oh, just realised u posted, haha, cant wait to ride the beast this weekend ;D

ct110 of pure lack of power and over achievagenessessesss ;D

You and John should go for a spin somewhere this weekend.

Cheers R

[CrazyFrog]

What's the CC limit for the smallbore challenge? I reckon an AG100 wud be the dogs bollocks, bulletproof, comfy seat, racks for fuel, pet sheep, etc, etc:yes:

[XF650]

"What's the CC limit for the smallbore challenge?"

230cc I hope

[cooneyr]

Up to 125cc is the limit. The DT230 would be way to easy :D Remember it has to be road reg as well so no MX 125 bikes i.e. CR125, KX125 will not count. Besides they would probably pop before 1000kms is up anyway.

Trail bikes such as Yammy LT2 100, kawa G4tr 100, TS125, TC125, XL125, XLR125, farm bikes CT110, CT125, TF125, AG100, buckets (commuter bikes), A100, B120, YB125, CB125, AX125, NXR125, scooters + many many others. There are heaps to choose from and they can all pretty much be purchased for less than $4k new (if you can still by them new). All of them will be close to max crusing speed at around 80-90 kph.

We should have a prize giving with prizes for the oldest, furthest SBC entrant travelled (on the bike that is), coolest bike, physically smallest bike, smallest CC bike, most inappropriate bike (i.e. bucket/commuter bike or scooter vs an appropriate bike being a XLR125 or similar), best roadside repair i.e. slapping in new piston and rings part way through the ride on a flogged out old smoker.

My brother in law suggested another twist to the whole thing but I think it might be pushing things a little - no more than $1000 total including trip costs such as fuel. Can you tell he is a little cashed strapped at the moment and is looking at old bikes LOL.

I recon we have just boosted the value of old 100-125cc bikes by 10% with this event.

This can be as crazy and fun as you lot make it. I know of two who definatly have bikes so far and I suspect there will be atleast three more. Spread the word!

Cheers R

[babysteps]

scooters

I'm seriously considering taking the Chrome of The Vespa for this, exceptions for a 200cc Italian?

[Skinny_Birdman]

I'm so keen for this! I even checked out the postie bike at Pit Lane, but $1500 is over my budget ($1000 self imposed) and apparently it's not even registered. Booo! I agree that an AG would be the business, but not too many of them get registered, or remain registered after all the indicators and mirrors have been knocked off, I guess.

[NordieBoy]

A GN125 or CG125 would be the beasties for this ride...

[El scooto]

Picked up the wee girl last nite. Rode her home along the southern motorway and got up to about 55mph. Goes preeetty bloody well for the size of it! got a couple of things to fix up. Base gasket, tail light and new tyres before I try anything to serious. 18in fronts aren't easy to find. All I've got so far is a Bridgestone TW12.
:woohoo:

Cheer

[warewolf]

For 18" fronts, look at 18" rears that would work OK reversed.

[warewolf]

btw I'm gutted I won't have the funds to participate in the SBC. :crybaby::crybaby:

[cooneyr]

For 18" fronts, look at 18" rears that would work OK reversed.

If we can find one narrow enough. The front is currently a 2.75-18. Not many rears this narrow. The TW12 looks reasonable for gravel, rocky and dry terrain.

Cheers R

[zeRax]

mint bike dude, nice and old too, if u are keen to go for a ride before u start tearing it down, me and timmehpwr are probably going for a lil ride on saturday, i think timehpwr was talking about somewhere not far from riccaton (sp?)

sure we could meet up and lol @ the small bikes pm if keen

[marks]

"What's the CC limit for the smallbore challenge?"

230cc I hope

just use your 'cough cough' DT125

[cooneyr]

just use your 'cough cough' DT125

:nono::nono: DT230 is way to easy. Almost all of the bikes I've been looking at will be struggling to do much over 100 so a bike that will do 160 is definatly not playing the game :wacko:

Here is one for the ultra keen. Honda CL50. (tardme linky (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-215999935.htm)). Top speed of 80kph!

Cheers R

[marks]

Here is one for the ultra keen. Honda CL50. (tardme linky (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-215999935.htm)). Top speed of 80kph!

Cheers R

that is awesome
wonder what he wants?

[Skinny_Birdman]

wonder what he wants?

Probably a faster bike.....

[warewolf]

Here is one for the ultra keen. Honda CL50. (tardme linky (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-215999935.htm)). Top speed of 80kph!Now that is truly in the spirit of things :clap:

It would be quite a challenge, as top cruising speed would be somewhat below the 80km/h max. Even the CT110 postie challenge bikes can crack what, 125km/h? but really couldn't be pushed above 90km/h for cruising.

[zeRax]

really? i thought id be pushing 80kmph on my postie ct110, find out tomorrow probably :P, anything extra sounds awesome ;D

[Racing Dave]

Anyone dreaming that a CT110 will crack 125 km/h has clearly never ridden one. On our 4-day off-road Stirling Point to the Picton Ferry trip a couple of years ago, we found that 65 km/h is a comfortable cruising speed, and by 80 you're screaming their tits off - even then, not a happening thing uphill or into a head wind.

It'll be really brave to ride one in the DB 1k 10, as I think it's average speed will be the bare minimum to complete the course in 24 hours.

Therefore, of course, it should be done.

Not by me - my CG125 is still looking good.

[El scooto]

Hey Yall!

Went for another wee blat around town today hehe!

Rang canty rides to price a new base gasket... $10

Anyway here's a piccy.

Cheers

PS Def keen for a wee ride on sat. PM you tonight zerax

[marks]

Anyone dreaming that a CT110 will crack 125 km/h has clearly never ridden one.

my 1970 CT90 would do 65mph


down Ngauranga Gorge with me in full racing crouch
sounded like it was going to explode - but never did.

this was 34 years ago.....:crybaby:


Hey Yall!

Went for another wee blat around town today hehe!


that's one sweet looking bike

[NordieBoy]

Hey Yall!

Went for another wee blat around town today hehe!

That is a minter!

[warewolf]

Anyone dreaming that a CT110 will crack 125 km/h has clearly never ridden one.I'll take your word for it, haven't been near one for ages. They sound slower than the CT90s I rode on farms when I was at school, umm, in the mid-eighties. Pretty sure we were seeing 90+ on those without topping them out.

[Skinny_Birdman]

my 1970 CT90 would do 65mph


down Ngauranga Gorge with me in full racing crouch
sounded like it was going to explode - but never did.

this was 34 years ago.....:crybaby:



Well they do say that the older you are, the faster you were..... I'll get me coat.:dodge:

[El scooto]

You've got to love these wee bikes.

Picked up a new battery today for the old girl, $23! Parts are so cheap!

Have to go for a good test ride in the weekend and test it's prowes.

Cheer

[Peril]

Wonder if you'll be in such a good mood when it melts a piston in the middle of nowhere Otago in the dark ;)
I shouldn't be too mean,least you've started and finished a DB1K:whistle:

[NordieBoy]

Wonder if you'll be in such a good mood when it melts a piston in the middle of nowhere Otago in the dark ;)
I shouldn't be too mean,least you've started and finished a DB1K:whistle:

Finished?

:whistle:

[cooneyr]

Finished?

:whistle:

He didn't even make it half way!

I recon he should carry a spare piston, rings and a hone and simply change it all at the half way point. Its a smoker so wont take too long right :D

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

He didn't even make it half way!

I recon he should carry a spare piston, rings and a hone and simply change it all at the half way point. Its a smoker so wont take too long right :D

Cheers R

Bumbag with a spare engine :D

[Paladin]

my 1970 CT90 would do 65mph


down Ngauranga Gorge with me in full racing crouch
sounded like it was going to explode - but never did.

this was 34 years ago.....:crybaby:




that's one sweet looking bike


Haha! Reminds me of my first ever bike when I was 16. A Suzuki SP50 two stroke - rode it to school and back everyday 15miles each way flat out at 65mph - screamed its little heart out but never failed me! Of course I did have to regularly change the rings and this was before mopeds became restricted to 30mph or whatever the stupid law was in the UK, aaah the good old days when road bike lookin mopeds did 65mph!!!!! Ok yeah I'm gettin old, so old I'm nostalgic about a 50cc moped that did 65mph, but it was fun at the time!!! ROFL!!!

;)

[El scooto]

Ok so never finished one, but it was my first attempt and it was spoiled by an 8c O ring! Someone had put the wrong size one in there. Not too worried about finishing but having fun along the way. With these bikes there probably will be alot of these times.

Spare engine in a bum bag? Well it's not out of the question!

Cheer

[marks]

Well they do say that the older you are, the faster you were..... I'll get me coat.:dodge:

it wouldn't surprise me if the speedo was way out so who knows how fast or slow I was going

at full tit the worn leading link suspension would allow the front wheel to flop around so it was still pretty exciting.

plus it would slip to a false neutral between the high and low ratios whenever it felt like it and the footpeg mounting hoes in the bottom of the engine kept stripping out causing the footpegs to drop down.

what a piece of shit
but as a 16yr old it was magic

[Skinny_Birdman]

Your thoughts on this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-216467432.htm) little bad boy, gentlemen?

[NordieBoy]

Your thoughts on this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-216467432.htm) little bad boy, gentlemen?

It'll chug away anywhere.

[cooneyr]

Your thoughts on this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-216467432.htm) little bad boy, gentlemen?

Am contemplating something like this if I can't find something a little more adv styled. Check up on tyres case something with a little more tread than some circumferential ribs would be nice to have.

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

Am contemplating something like this if I can't find something a little more adv styled. Check up on tyres case something with a little more tread than some circumferential ribs would be nice to have.

Cheers R

Ribbed? Ewwwww. I'll just make me own knobblies, a kind of reverse Burt Munro.:yes:

[Skinny_Birdman]

The info to hand suggests something like 18" x 2.5" front and rear. Any advances/anyone know of any adv tyres of sufficiently teeny dimensions?

[cooneyr]

The info to hand suggests something like 18" x 2.5" front and rear. Any advances/anyone know of any adv tyres of sufficiently teeny dimensions?

A Bridgestone TW12 comes in a 3-18. Looks like a reasonable tyre for a mid summer DB1k. Alternative is to get the neighbours bread knife out :msn-wink:

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

Well, I'll go round and check it out tonight but I think I'll hold out for something slightly less commutery. In the meantime, this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Dirt-bikes/auction-216750520.htm) would do nicely for some southern big-spender (it's official, my budget to get a bike to the start line is now $1000 due to wifely edict, so it's way over my limit). I am suspicious that this trader may wish to do more than sell a bike though. "...we can discuss the details over the fone and can also exchange pics." :no:

[zeRax]

that bikes been on there for quite awhile, i talked to the guy about it too,


CT110's are pretty damn awesome, i took it to work this morning and back, took long way home, flying through water no problems, being so light and low to ground is definately cool in some respects, shes fairly hard at speeds and i wasnt ready for a pot hole in deeper grass and got a hell of a shock as i nearly bounced over bars @ 70 odd kmph,

speed wise indicated sat on 77-80kmph this morning at 6;40am


this after noon it could sit on 86 even 90 at one point ( indicated, but traffic looked about right )

so all in all, shes pretty darn awesome, me mrs has already started going up driveway and back, and even rode it home with me on the back from my parents place, scary stuff ;D wooo

[Skinny_Birdman]

Well, I took the mighty A100 for a spin, and have the following comments:
Motor: A bit tired, it would do an indicated 85 flat out, not sure how long that would last before heat seizure.
Gears: Weird. All down. Takes erm, a bit of getting used to. rin-nin-nin-nin-nin over-rev!:Oops:
Brakes: Like most drum brakes, requires Nostradamus-like levels of prediction when you want to stop. Rear significantly stronger than front. Clairvoyants apply here.
Tyres: 18x3.00 rear, so could get a knobbly for it, front is an 18x2.5, but I think maybe a TF 125 front-end would possibly fit on there with some effort....
Comfort: What comfort? Seat is shot, and the kick start lever digs into your right calf.
Handling: Quite good fun, as long as you are not approaching an intersection or running over bumps any larger than a pea.
Suspension: Front is surprisingly OK, although a bit short of damping. Rear consists of a Bic ballpoint pen spring and a cardboard replica shock absorber on each side. Bottomed out on the kerb crossing at about 15km/h, even under my insubstantial 63kg bulk. God knows what it would be like with fuel and tools on the back over some real bumps. :eek:That is the real killer for me, along with the exhaust exiting in a dangerously exposed position under the motor. Maybe I'm too picky, but I'll leave this one. If I get desperate I'll buy something like this, but for the moment I am not a beggar, so can be a chooser. NEXT!

[BMWST?]

125kph.....no way.I had a CL175 honda and it was in nice nick.Me and my mate on his 200 two stroke yamaha road bike could do those sorta speeds...just.I recall doing a stint at about 10000 rpm in top along the hutt motorway at about 80 mph indicated

[Peril]

Well, I took the mighty A100 for a spin, and have the following comments:
Motor: A bit tired, it would do an indicated 85 flat out, not sure how long that would last before heat seizure.
Gears: Weird. All down. Takes erm, a bit of getting used to. rin-nin-nin-nin-nin over-rev!:Oops:
Brakes: Like most drum brakes, requires Nostradamus-like levels of prediction when you want to stop. Rear significantly stronger than front. Clairvoyants apply here.
Tyres: 18x3.00 rear, so could get a knobbly for it, front is an 18x2.5, but I think maybe a TF 125 front-end would possibly fit on there with some effort....
Comfort: What comfort? Seat is shot, and the kick start lever digs into your right calf.
Handling: Quite good fun, as long as you are not approaching an intersection or running over bumps any larger than a pea.
Suspension: Front is surprisingly OK, although a bit short of damping. Rear consists of a Bic ballpoint pen spring and a cardboard replica shock absorber on each side. Bottomed out on the kerb crossing at about 15km/h, even under my insubstantial 63kg bulk. God knows what it would be like with fuel and tools on the back over some real bumps. :eek:That is the real killer for me, along with the exhaust exiting in a dangerously exposed position under the motor. Maybe I'm too picky, but I'll leave this one. If I get desperate I'll buy something like this, but for the moment I am not a beggar, so can be a chooser. NEXT!


Back in highschool,when I turned 15,I had an XL100s.Couple of other guys had a Honda H100s and the other a Suzuki AX100 (I think).Some lunchtimes we'd head off down Shands Road or Waterloo Road for a drag race....Those two little two strokes left the XL for dead.I think I was flat out at 95km/h with them doing probably 120 easy,lucky no teacher ever found out!
Only down side I can see to using a road bike for this would be the lack of suspension.Front could be tweaked maybe with more/thicker oil.
I'm still tempted to do this,but I think pushing a little bike over 1000kms in 24 hours will be destined for meltdown,unless maybe it was a well loved 4 stroke.
Or is the challenge over the two day ride also?

[Lugzy23]

Well, I took the mighty A100 for a spin, and have the following comments:
Motor: A bit tired, it would do an indicated 85 flat out, not sure how long that would last before heat seizure.
Gears: Weird. All down. Takes erm, a bit of getting used to. rin-nin-nin-nin-nin over-rev!:Oops:
Brakes: Like most drum brakes, requires Nostradamus-like levels of prediction when you want to stop. Rear significantly stronger than front. Clairvoyants apply here.
Tyres: 18x3.00 rear, so could get a knobbly for it, front is an 18x2.5, but I think maybe a TF 125 front-end would possibly fit on there with some effort....
Comfort: What comfort? Seat is shot, and the kick start lever digs into your right calf.
Handling: Quite good fun, as long as you are not approaching an intersection or running over bumps any larger than a pea.
Suspension: Front is surprisingly OK, although a bit short of damping. Rear consists of a Bic ballpoint pen spring and a cardboard replica shock absorber on each side. Bottomed out on the kerb crossing at about 15km/h, even under my insubstantial 63kg bulk. God knows what it would be like with fuel and tools on the back over some real bumps. :eek:That is the real killer for me, along with the exhaust exiting in a dangerously exposed position under the motor. Maybe I'm too picky, but I'll leave this one. If I get desperate I'll buy something like this, but for the moment I am not a beggar, so can be a chooser. NEXT!


Flag that, just get a TF125 from somewhere, I havent got one for bits for you sorry birdman. Ive got my eye on an MT50, will let you know

[cooneyr]

....Or is the challenge over the two day ride also?

I strongly suspect it will be see how long it takes to get to the two day riders overnighting location and make a call from there. Much more than 12 hours to do the first 500kms and there isn't much point in pushing on. I'm thinking that a support vehicle for the SBC riders with overnight gear, extra fuel, etc would be a good idea.

Hmm better investigate two dayer overnighting options.

Cheers R

[Underground]

I hate to be the first to say this , but you're watering it down to the extent that someone has to mention the ....3 day option :whistle:

[zeRax]

im all about doing sbc in 1 day !

[NordieBoy]

I hate to be the first to say this , but you're watering it down to the extent that someone has to mention the ....3 day option :whistle:

That's where you turn around and backtrack all the way to the start :woohoo:

[Skinny_Birdman]

Flag that, just get a TF125 from somewhere, I havent got one for bits for you sorry birdman. Ive got my eye on an MT50, will let you know

So you're potentially in? Mint! A TF would be perfect(especially the racy 6 speed 'box), but I have never seen a road legal one.

[Lugzy23]

They sell TF's brand new with all the road gear you need, ive still got the rear light and indicators off mine, I took to obtain maximum horsepower. I have seen legal AG 100's floating round. They are propably just registered as farm vehicle though- not sposed to be driven 40 km from a specific point I think.

[XF650]

You might struggle to get current TF125 & AG100 road legal - was told today that their brakes & light lenses etc are not DOT. Plus it can be a hassle to get Suzuki & Yamaha to supply the necessary documentation on these models.
I guess you could upgrade the necessary parts but it might be easier to try to find the older models that can be complied?

[Lugzy23]

Brought this yesterday, its a 1976 TC 125. Got a high/low splitter lever on the side of the flywheel case, dont know how effective it is yet. Its been set up for the road or meant for the road at some stage cause its got rev counter, speedo, and turn signals on it. All set to break down on me in the middle of nowhere

[Skinny_Birdman]

Awesome, and thanks for your kind PM offer. That thing looks 'good' and the splitter sounds useful. Can you make it legal though? My latest plan is to sell my elderly KDX200 and add whatever I get for it to the consolidated SBC fund. I daresay you aren't still interested in the KDX Lugzy, with your proliferation of small smokewheels? Anyone else want to sponsor me by buying a KDX?

[Lugzy23]

Awesome, and thanks for your kind PM offer. That thing looks 'good' and the splitter sounds useful. Can you make it legal though? My latest plan is to sell my elderly KDX200 and add whatever I get for it to the consolidated SBC fund. I daresay you aren't still interested in the KDX Lugzy, with your proliferation of small smokewheels? Anyone else want to sponsor me by buying a KDX?

If you have got it in town I might have a look at it.

[cooneyr]

Brought this yesterday, its a 1976 TC 125. Got a high/low splitter lever on the side of the flywheel case, dont know how effective it is yet. Its been set up for the road or meant for the road at some stage cause its got rev counter, speedo, and turn signals on it. All set to break down on me in the middle of nowhere

Very nice, perfect type of bike to do it on. Keen to hear what you think of the twin ratio set up. By the way as it is pre 1978 you dont even have to have signals!

Give it a good once over, stick a spare set of barrel gaskets and rings in your tool kit and short of a major catastrophe you'll be sweet -hopefully! :msn-wink:

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

If you have got it in town I might have a look at it.

I'll try to get it back to Chch in the next couple of weeks, either way.

[Racing Dave]

Sheesh - don't get too hung up on Rego and WoF. How many cops are there likely to be? My guess - a round number (ie zero). Turn up, ride, go home smiling.

[cooneyr]

RD you are probably right. Especially when you see the current route data on the DB1k SSI (Southern South Island) page here (http://www.advroutes.org.nz/DB1kSSI.html). 1073km of which 837km is gravel. You ever seen a cop car on a gravel road??? :msn-wink:

Cheers R

[XF650]

I'v seen plenty of cops on the 22% that is seal.

[Underground]

We saw one on westbank road last DB :eek5: Looked like he was setting up to catch speeders so you SBC guys should be pretty safe.

[junkmanjoe]

WOW that look like a wicked route.
is it still avalible for a 2 day option, or just 24hrs.
dose it get quite high the roads, up in the mountains.
sorry about the dumb questions...

JMJ

[cooneyr]

I'v seen plenty of cops on the 22% that is seal.


We saw one on westbank road last DB :eek5: Looked like he was setting up to catch speeders so you SBC guys should be pretty safe.

Where are the grumpy old men in the world aye :girlfight: :whistle: Actually just remembered one of the many unofficial "rules" - all bikes must be road reg. I was thinking this was a good way of keeping the CR/KX/YZ125's out of the event.


WOW that look like a wicked route.
is it still avalible for a 2 day option, or just 24hrs.
dose it get quite high the roads, up in the mountains.
sorry about the dumb questions...

JMJ

There will definitely be a 2 day ride. Part of the scoping ride will be to find a place for the two day riders to lay up. Quite a bit of the route is around 1000m and there are about 5 distinguishable climbs - Danseys Pass, Dunstan Saddle (twice), the saddle just east of Garston, Omarama Saddle and Monteys Saddle. None of these saddles/passes are not much above 1000m.

Cheers R

[junkmanjoe]

would it be to mad to tent it....:eek5:...maybe not...:crazy:

[cooneyr]

would it be to mad to tent it....:eek5:...maybe not...:crazy:

If the run is in early Jan (the preferable option) then tenting is definitely a viable option. I'm not sure if you have appreciated that this ride is typically done where there is as much light as possible i.e. not the middle of winter. Have a look for the 2007 and 2008, 2009 threads for the DB1k ride. Also have a look at the DB1k 2010 ideas thread (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=96095) for more info on the ride. This thread is all about the Small Bore Challenge (SBC) part of the ride but not all are that crazy :crazy: and many will be doing this ride on the "normal" adv bikes.

Central Otago gets pretty damn hot in summer but in early Jan the weather can still be a little unstable. I'll be looking for shearers quarters etc so that you don't have to carry any more than a sleeping bag if you don't want too. It is entirely up to you where you want to stay but there there will likely be a an accommodation location sorted somewhere around the 500kms mark for the two day riders.

Cheers R

[El scooto]

Brought this yesterday, its a 1976 TC 125. Got a high/low splitter lever on the side of the flywheel case, dont know how effective it is yet. Its been set up for the road or meant for the road at some stage cause its got rev counter, speedo, and turn signals on it. All set to break down on me in the middle of nowhere

Nice one mate!
You'll have to get it sorted so we can go practice and terrorise the roads (and scare the local pet population!)

Got the TW12 3.00x18 tyre for the front of my wee one on Fri. Haven't tested it out yet as I want to sort out the leaking base gasket first.

Cheer

[Racing Dave]

Actually just remembered one of the many unofficial "rules" - all bikes must be road reg. I was thinking this was a good way of keeping the CR/KX/YZ125's out of the event.

Don't misunderstand me - there's a world of difference between a TS125 without indicators and an MX bike. I'd hate to see any of those entered.

All I'm saying is that if you've got a nearly suitable (or WoF-able) bike, then consider riding the event anyway. 125's humming along quietly don't attract much attention. Ridden discreetly, no-one would notice if they didn't strictly comply with the law, but all should comply with the spirit of the event (as deemed by Ryan), and competition bikes do not.

Without decent lights, tyres, and brakes it'd be a struggle to complete the ride safely, anyway, and I think that (completion safely) is very important.

[NordieBoy]

Ridden discreetly, no-one would notice if they didn't strictly comply with the law, but all should comply with the spirit of the event (as deemed by Ryan), and competition bikes do not.

Would a 125cc MX bike have a snowballs chance of finishing at all?


1000km is a fair few seasons racing...
They'd be due for a piston/rings several times. Oil changes at every smoko break.

I think it's even more in the spirit.
If you could get one reg'd...

[JATZ]

Would a 125cc MX bike have a snowballs chance of finishing at all?


1000km is a fair few seasons racing...
They'd be due for a piston/rings several times. Oil changes at every smoko break.

I think it's even more in the spirit.
If you could get one reg'd...

Could you see the mighty CT making it through Blenhiem with out drawing attention to it self Nordie ? I could chuck some more chook netting in the muffler to try quieten it down a bit

[Underground]

The CT is the stealth bomber of sbc motorcycles , It would get straight through under the radar ,no worries jatz

[JATZ]

The CT is the stealth bomber of sbc motorcycles , It would get straight through under the radar ,no worries jatz

Better get my A into G and STG then and decide what I'm doin then. Is the SBC run over the old course or the southern course ?

[NordieBoy]

Could you see the mighty CT making it through Blenhiem with out drawing attention to it self Nordie ? I could chuck some more chook netting in the muffler to try quieten it down a bit

I've got a 2" race core SuperTrapp that'd work nicely.

Quiet as a quiet thing...

No really :whistle:


Yes Sir it is a DR750. Says so on the sidecover. Would I lie to you? :whistle:

[NordieBoy]

Is the SBC run over the old course or the southern course ?

New course.

But...
We'll have to run the old course as a 2-dayer sometime for those who never got the chance to do it and if the littlies have proven themselves and got little gold stars on their hands well... Be a shame not to include them too :D

[JATZ]

New course.

But...
We'll have to run the old course as a 2-dayer sometime for those who never got the chance to do it and if the littlies have proven themselves and got little gold stars on their hands well... Be a shame not to include them too :D

Right. Big and Tenere combo it is then.
The gas to trailer the CT there and back would be worth more than the bike

[babysteps]

There will definitely be a 2 day ride. Part of the scoping ride will be to find a place for the two day riders to lay up. Quite a bit of the route is around 1000m and there are about 5 distinguishable climbs - Danseys Pass, Dunstan Saddle (twice), the saddle just east of Garston, Omarama Saddle and Monteys Saddle. None of these saddles/passes are not much above 1000m.
Cheers R

There is a Backpackers and a Fishing Lodge at Garston (http://www.jasons.com/New-Zealand/Garston/accommodation/), that's about 1/2 way.......

[cooneyr]

There is a Backpackers and a Fishing Lodge at Garston (http://www.jasons.com/New-Zealand/Garston/accommodation/), that's about 1/2 way.......

Umm Garston is about the 700km mark. Bit to far I think. Somewhere between Millers Flat and Alex would be the best place.

Cheers R

[Racing Dave]

For all you keen (and I use this word on purpose) contenders who'll be riding small-engined road bikes in the SBC and whose machines of choice have 18-inch wheels, I was in Pit Lane (Cycletreads) in Chch a couple of days ago and they'll supply (and fit to wheels brought in) 2.75 x 18 Duro knobblies for $89 each.

If you're not familiar with that highly respected brand I'm not surprised, but they're produced in Taiwan, a country with many bikes suitable for taking on the DB1k challenge.

[cooneyr]

Thanks for the info RD.

I've found the perfect bike for those that are feeling a little challanged by this event. Tardeme (http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.aspx?id=218498364)

http://images.trademe.co.nz/photoserver/60/93786860_full.jpg

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Passenger pegs!

:woohoo:

[Skinny_Birdman]

If you have got it in town I might have a look at it.
Bringing KDX back tonight. Text me when you want to have a look at it.

[El scooto]

Did a bit of work on 'Dorris' (her new name)in the weekend. Put in a new base gasket(since it didn't have one) and head gasket. Doesn't bleed oil anymore, success! New bridgestone TW12 on the front and claimed some plastic sheet from a mates work to make a rally screen.
Also managed to bend the handle bars trying to do wheelies :doh: so new ones needed.
Other than a couple of alterations and tuning it's time for some test runs:niceone:

Cheer

[babysteps]

I was down at Street and Sport in Chch today looking at stuff, next door at the tyre shop there is a CT110 for sale if anyone is looking for a steed for this event. From memory it was 1200 ono.......

[Skinny_Birdman]

Did a bit of work on 'Dorris' (her new name)in the weekend. Put in a new base gasket(since it didn't have one) and head gasket. Doesn't bleed oil anymore, success! New bridgestone TW12 on the front and claimed some plastic sheet from a mates work to make a rally screen.
Also managed to bend the handle bars trying to do wheelies :doh: so new ones needed.
Other than a couple of alterations and tuning it's time for some test runs:niceone:

Cheer
What kind of pikey assembles a motor without any base gasket? I would have at least filled the void with RTV. If you want some bars and you want to keep the budget down, I have the stock bars off the TT which you can have for cheap. PM me if interested.


I was down at Street and Sport in Chch today looking at stuff, next door at the tyre shop there is a CT110 for sale if anyone is looking for a steed for this event. From memory it was 1200 ono.......

Was $1500, but alas no reg or WOF as per earlier posts....

Missed out on a fixed price offer on a GP100 in Rottenrua which would have been ideal. Sod it! A few interesting ones on Tardme at the moment though... like this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=219456392).

Cheers A

[El scooto]

[QUOTE=Skinny_Birdman;1129223208]What kind of pikey assembles a motor without any base gasket? I would have at least filled the void with RTV. If you want some bars and you want to keep the budget down, I have the stock bars off the TT which you can have for cheap. PM me if interested.



Hey,
there was a little goop on it but not much. Didn't do much in the way of sealing it!
Have PM'd you about the bars.

Cheer

[El scooto]

Wee Dorris has not been running quite right since I picked her up, so I've done a bit of research into carby setting. Had a look today and found the needle clip has been put down on notch making it run rich.

Soooo I put it up to the centre notch (factory setting) and HEY PRESTO!!

The wee girl goes like a smoker should. She can now loft the front with ease (rider on the other hand not so good at it!) and spins her wee tyre.

Dorris is alive again!!!

Cheer

[Skinny_Birdman]

The wee girl goes like a smoker should. She can now loft the front with ease (rider on the other hand not so good at it!) and spins her wee tyre.

Dorris is alive again!!!

Cheer
Ba ding ding ding ding!!
Having sold my own lowly smoker to Lugzy last weekend:laugh:, I just test rode this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=220711545) awesome little chap. Needs new chain and sprockets, and fueling is a bit fluffy, but it needs nothing, and is otherwise perfect for someone (with deeper pockets than me, it turns out - offered him $1400: DENIED) or someones more petite better half (it is pretty tiny). I'm looking at you, Cooney Major :yes:.
Cheers A

[cooneyr]

....I'm looking at you, Cooney Major :yes:.
...

I have been informed that said motorised bi wheeled machine must have electrical starting assistance and must not make ring ding ding noises. :doh:

The XLR is probably not a bad choice but no lectric leg and the price seems a little (very) steep. There was a similar KM machine with Reg and WOF for $950 ex cromwell not long ago.

Cheers R

[Transalper]

I thought some of them were electric start and with kick backup... or am I thinking of the new NXR125

[timg]

Early NXR's were kick. The Newer ones were available as NXR125KS and NXR125ES ES = Electric start. I had a KS and it was the easiest starting kick start I've ever used. First kick every time.

[warewolf]

I have been informed that said motorised bi wheeled machine must have electrical starting assistance and must not make ring ding ding noises. :doh:You haven't lived until you've ridden a ring ding machine with enthusiasm... :devil2: :blip: :2thumbsup

[NordieBoy]

You haven't lived until you've ridden a ring ding machine with enthusiasm... :devil2: :blip: :2thumbsup

As opposed to riding a ring ding machine scared shitless.

A TS400 racebike comes to mind...

[cooneyr]

Early NXR's were kick. The Newer ones were available as NXR125KS and NXR125ES ES = Electric start. I had a KS and it was the easiest starting kick start I've ever used. First kick every time.

Thanks for that. I though that might be the case.


You haven't lived until you've ridden a ring ding machine with enthusiasm... :devil2: :blip: :2thumbsup

This is for SWMBO not myself. I had an RMX250 for a while but it had been mucked with an RM FMF pipe and the throttle was a switch - no cruising around on it. Wish I had something similar now as an of road toy but one that would cruse on the straights. An 300 exc would be good for opening the eyes occasionally!

Cheers R

[cooneyr]

Anybody feel like they need some inspiration - have a look at these crazy Nordic guys - guessing Swedish of Finish (finished)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZrqSrwAyLk&feature=related

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

Yes, it was kick start only. The guy said he bought it for his son, but his son had trouble kicking it over. The son must be quite young, cos I could have damn near started it with my hand.... Yes, I think that the price is a bit steep, but as others have said, it doesn't go ring-a-ding-ding. It might by the end of 1100km with one of us riding it though.....

[marks]

Anybody feel like they need some inspiration - have a look at these crazy Nordic guys - guessing Swedish of Finish (finished)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZrqSrwAyLk&feature=related

Cheers R

if you were going to ride through stuff like that I'd be in - that looked like fun

[warewolf]

Anybody feel like they need some inspiration - have a look at these crazy Nordic guys - guessing Swedish of Finish (finished)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZrqSrwAyLk&feature=relatedTop stuff! :Punk:

[El scooto]

Cool vid!

I can feel some serious 'Dorris' testing coming on

Cheer

[Skinny_Birdman]

Well, I've got mine now :woohoo:!!!!! I talked the guy down to $1550 for the XLR, more than I had intended on spending, but a bike that hopefully I won't manage to destroy inside the 1000km, and in the meantime I can initiate D in the horrors of Waimak single track. Awright!!!! :wari: Bring on January, or whenever.
It needs a chain and sprockets, so if anyone has a spare bicycle chain....

[Racing Dave]

Good on you, Birdman, a four-stroke bike of any kind is the way to go, and Hondas top the list.

My prediction (from the safety of 6 months till the ride!) is that no two-stroke under 125cc will finish ahead of any same capacity four-stroke.

If current plans come together, I'll be testing my CG for range next Saturday.

PS to Ryan - any thoughts on settling on a date yet?

[NordieBoy]

My prediction (from the safety of 6 months till the ride!) is that no two-stroke under 125cc will finish ahead of any same capacity four-stroke.

Thinking of an A100 to go up against your CG :D

[cooneyr]

Good on you, Birdman, a four-stroke bike of any kind is the way to go, and Hondas top the list.

My prediction (from the safety of 6 months till the ride!) is that no two-stroke under 125cc will finish ahead of any same capacity four-stroke.

If current plans come together, I'll be testing my CG for range next Saturday.

PS to Ryan - any thoughts on settling on a date yet?

2010 is a bit stink for dates as the weekend after new years is the 2/3rd and I'm guessing many will still be recovering from new years/wont have time to make Fairlie. One day run will probably have to be the 9th with the BBQ or similar on the 8th.

Cheers R

:doh: just checked and I see the Yammy Safari is on that weekend. So it will have to be the 16th 17th Jan.

[Transalper]

I'll back at work by the 11th so I have issue with any two dayer plan after that.. unless, when is Waitangi day next year?? ... a Saturday. So what does that do for extending the weekend, or do we miss out this time?

[Skinny_Birdman]

I'll back at work by the 11th so I have issue with any two dayer plan after that.. unless, when is Waitangi day next year?? ... a Saturday. So what does that do for extending the weekend, or do we miss out this time?

16/17 Jan is good for me, the further away from new years the better. In fact, I can work around pretty well any dates you care to name, given sufficient notice.

How many confirmed starters do we have for the SBC now? I make it Scooto, Zeerax, Racing Dave, and SB, with Lugzy a pretty shaky possible, if his 'ahem!' TC turns out not to be a basket case and if his missus forgives him for buying my KDX:devil2:.

Cheers A

[Skinny_Birdman]

Good on you, Birdman, a four-stroke bike of any kind is the way to go, and Hondas top the list.

My prediction (from the safety of 6 months till the ride!) is that no two-stroke under 125cc will finish ahead of any same capacity four-stroke.

If current plans come together, I'll be testing my CG for range next Saturday.

PS to Ryan - any thoughts on settling on a date yet?

... and I'll drink to that :beer:. Taking an offroad style four stroke doesn't quite seem to be in the spirit of the event (ie (tempting fate for a moment) it's unlikely, no, less likely to shit itself and leave me standing in the middle of nowhere), but maybe I can induce a rod-throwing incident to liven things up. If not, the XLR might be like an overcrowded lifeboat, or one of those pictures you see of 5 Vietnamese or Thai people on a single small bike, by the end of the trip.

[cooneyr]

I'll back at work by the 11th so I have issue with any two dayer plan after that.. unless, when is Waitangi day next year?? ... a Saturday. So what does that do for extending the weekend, or do we miss out this time?

We miss out. Like ANZAC day if Waitangi day falls on the weekend we dont get the day off work. People will either have to take a day or two off work or if in Canty we will have to get down there friday arvo and head home Sunday some time.

Cheers R

[Transalper]

...or if in Canty we will have to get down there friday arvo and head home Sunday some time...
Well then I guess date isn't so important for me then after all.

[cooneyr]

Couple of options for the SBC. This one (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Dual-purpose/auction-223054142.htm) would make a good stable mate for XF650 or Marks DT 230's, a DT 125R. Looks pretty damn tidy too, reg and wof but they are after $2k. Been adventure ridden/dual sported not hard out trail ridden it would seem

An here (http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.aspx?id=223192621) is an older version no WOF or REG but with a nice big carrier for all the extra petrol you'll need to carry.

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

Picked up the XLR last night. Everything works, but it sure is comically slow. D disappeared away down the road on the Transalp (which is not the world's fastest accelerator), and I was thrashing the bejesus out of the poor thing trying to catch up. Tops out around 95-100km/h, lying on the tank. Possibly there is a bit more in it, with a new chain and the fueling isn't perfect. With the gearing that's on it, 85km/h is a reasonable on road cruising speed. So that's what I'm up against.

Cheers
A

[cooneyr]

.....Tops out around 95-100km/h, lying on the tank. Possibly there is a bit more in it, with a new chain and the fueling isn't perfect. With the gearing that's on it, 85km/h is a reasonable on road cruising speed. ....

Sounds perfect :2thumbsup Thats the sort of speed range I had in mind after Scooto mentioned this crasy idea.

You all know that this is Scooto's crasy idea don't you? Any complains, gripes, grumbles or groans will be handled by him. Dont come running to me when your bikes break down 1/2 way through the Dunstan Track in the pissing rain. By the way he is meaner, grumpier and stronger than I :dodge:

Cheers R

[zeRax]

no worries dudes ;D im still going to rockn roll on the ct110, i just wish the dusty was up here for another year, specially tackling 1000kms, would have been good to do it on known track,


ah well, CT110 gogogo, about 80-85 tops, on the flat !, :P and nearly no suspension, thats the one gripe i have, is suspension, i hit a divit in grass and nearly went over the bars :X

[twotyred]

ah well, CT110 gogogo, about 80-85 tops, on the flat !, :P and nearly no suspension, thats the one gripe i have, is suspension, i hit a divit in grass and nearly went over the bars :X

heres some mods this one has:CT125 front end/forks, XL500 rear shocks, Moto front guard, nobby tyres.:2thumbsup

[cooneyr]

no worries dudes ;D im still going to rockn roll on the ct110, i just wish the dusty was up here for another year, specially tackling 1000kms, would have been good to do it on known track,


ah well, CT110 gogogo, about 80-85 tops, on the flat !, :P and nearly no suspension, thats the one gripe i have, is suspension, i hit a divit in grass and nearly went over the bars :X

I don't think knowing the track will make much difference given the speeds you will be doing LOL. I recon the southern route will be pretty cool cause lots more gravel and much more varied scenery.

Re the suspension, Racing Dave mentioned something cheap/free mods to the forks of a CT110 when I was talking to him. Maybe drop him a PM?


heres some mods this one has:CT125 front end/forks, XL500 rear shocks, Moto front guard, nobby tyres.:2thumbsup

That looks seriously cool/crazy/waste of money :2thumbsup

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

The XLR doesn't have a great deal of suspension travel either, to be honest. There's no pre-load adjustment and (not surprisingly) no ride height adjustment, so my butt is gonna be pretty close to the trail - and the bump stop on the shock. How is the lighting on the CT? I guess we'll be traversing a fair bit in the dark....

[Racing Dave]

Hi zeRax,

If you'd like see what I did to Blue Wing's Postie Bikes for our Bluff to Picton off-road trip, send me a PM with your email address, and I'll give you the details + photo. Improved the front end from "practically unrideable" to "actually OK", particularly considering the cruising speed. Price - as Ryan said, almost free.

Cheers,
Dave B

[JATZ]

Hi zeRax,

If you'd like see what I did to Blue Wing's Postie Bikes for our Bluff to Picton off-road trip, send me a PM with your email address, and I'll give you the details + photo. Improved the front end from "practically unrideable" to "actually OK", particularly considering the cruising speed. Price - as Ryan said, almost free.

Cheers,
Dave B

Would the mods be suitable for a CT125 ? I was just down in the shed putting new seals and oil in mine, but if there's something to make them better I wouldn't mind trying it.
CT alternator is ummmmm........ahhhhhhhhhh..........not worth a pinch of shit

[Skinny_Birdman]

If any of the bits of the CT are common with Honda three wheelers of the mid '80's , and you need any bits, let us know. I have a mate who has a runner slowly decaying in his front yard (I know, not real specific on model, but all I know about three wheelers is that they are a hospital pass. Anyway, the motor looks very XR 250 and it's shaft drive). All the motor/drivetrain bits should be OK, except the magneto, which is rooted.

[zeRax]

its entirely possible that im going to disconnect the main headlight and run my 35w HID spotlight and ballast on the bike, not sure what output is, but ill check current bulb someday soon !

made sure i got a modern ish 12volt ct110 so i could do things like power gps etc :X, ( I HOPE ?!?! )

if anyone does know the alternator output that would be candy info

[Padmei]

Heres something for someone

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-223416628.htm

[Racing Dave]

Hi Jatz,

The principles of the 110 mods could apply, but the 125 doesn't (quite) suffer from the same inherent problems (barely any travel, hopelessly soft springs, no damping) that the Postie Bike does.

My mod improves all those aspects, but there's only so much that damper rod type forks can be made better.

For the 125, I'd stick with the standard springs (good on you for fitting new seals) but maybe just have a slightly higher oil level, so bottoming over Otago's many rocks is resisted just a little more.

Cheers,
Dave B

[CrazyFrog]

Has anyone test ridden, or will be riding a Honda NXR125 on the SBC? They seem well set up for a 125, with half decent suspension, seat doesn't look too bad, and they come standard with a rear rack for fuel, gear etc.
Basic specs follows:
12.5KW, 5-Speed, kick start, 19" front wheel, 17" rear wheel, drum brakes front and rear, Fuel capacity 12 litres, Weight 112 kg
There been some well priced ones on Tardme lately, for a lot less than $1500.
Here's a review from last year from one NZ owner:
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=48636

Comments anyone?

[cooneyr]

We are not jumping in just yet for various reason but one of these is on the cards for my wife if she ends up doing the SBC. Good (low) seat height, seem to be reliable etc. Modern CT110 - nothing special but just keeps plodding???

I'm still keen to do it on something old, cheap and unreliable cause the crazy idea needs just a little more crazyness I recon :wacko: :D

Cheers R

[bigfish]

Is there an AT3 still alive on this planet? I did 30000k on my last one between 1974 and 1977-only 3 pistons. Would love another one.

[cooneyr]

Is there an AT3 still alive on this planet? I did 30000k on my last one between 1974 and 1977-only 3 pistons. Would love another one.

After riding and playing with El Scooto's LT2 I recon an AT3 would be pretty damn cool for the DB1k. If you find one let me know ;)

Cheers R

[JATZ]

Hi Jatz,

The principles of the 110 mods could apply, but the 125 doesn't (quite) suffer from the same inherent problems (barely any travel, hopelessly soft springs, no damping) that the Postie Bike does.

My mod improves all those aspects, but there's only so much that damper rod type forks can be made better.

For the 125, I'd stick with the standard springs (good on you for fitting new seals) but maybe just have a slightly higher oil level, so bottoming over Otago's many rocks is resisted just a little more.

Cheers,
Dave B

They still feel pretty crappy but should be better. I tipped about a tablespoon of milky looking stuff out of one and about 3 tablespoons of watery grease out of another.
Now for the foot-pegs

[NordieBoy]

Hi Jatz,

The principles of the 110 mods could apply, but the 125 doesn't (quite) suffer from the same inherent problems (barely any travel, hopelessly soft springs, no damping) that the Postie Bike does.

You've described the front of Jatz'zzz'zz CT very well.

[El scooto]

Sounds perfect :2thumbsup Thats the sort of speed range I had in mind after Scooto mentioned this crasy idea.

You all know that this is Scooto's crasy idea don't you? Any complains, gripes, grumbles or groans will be handled by him. Dont come running to me when your bikes break down 1/2 way through the Dunstan Track in the pissing rain. By the way he is meaner, grumpier and stronger than I :dodge:

Cheers R

Cheers bro!!

Just thought the standard dusty butt was all to easy to accomplish (having never finished one myself!) so I thought we needed to up the stakes and make a real challenge out of it.

The progress on turning Dorris into a mini tenere is coming along. Put on a duro front tyre. Got all the bits to put my rally screen on now. Anyone got an oversize tank for an LT2?

Cheer

[JATZ]

I stuck em on because they were there,and I could, not because of the SBC :innocent:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qrdvShrjdzA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qrdvShrjdzA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>



its entirely possible that im going to disconnect the main headlight and run my 35w HID spotlight and ballast on the bike, not sure what output is, but ill check current bulb someday soon !

made sure i got a modern ish 12volt ct110 so i could do things like power gps etc :X, ( I HOPE ?!?! )

if anyone does know the alternator output that would be candy info

Here ya go zerax, poted this elsewhere but thought you might want to see it. headlights from a gsxr on the CT, they seem to run o.k. I'll make a bracket and mount them proply and give them a test run.
Just about wet myself when the bike fired up and they worked

[cooneyr]

...The progress on turning Dorris into a mini tenere is coming along. Put on a duro front tyre. Got all the bits to put my rally screen on now. Anyone got an oversize tank for an LT2?

Just a note about the Duro tyres - they are DOT legal. At least the one that El just put on the front is. Here is a link (http://www.duro.com.tw/en/prodetail.php?id=258&query_string=kind%3D2%26series%3D22%26query_string %3Dkind%253D2%2526query_string%253D) with sizes and a picture of the tyres. The rubber compound seems nicely soft enough to get good grip on seal/hardpack and the tread pattern is pretty aggressive for a tyre of that size.

I followed El round town for a short ride later yesterday and that little 100cc smoker fair hauls and goes around corners damn well! I want one LOL.


Here ya go zerax, poted this elsewhere but thought you might want to see it. headlights from a gsxr on the CT, they seem to run o.k. I'll make a bracket and mount them proply and give them a test run.
Just about wet myself when the bike fired up and they worked

Man if you get that excited about the "Lil Baja" you should definitely get the bike down here ;)

Cheers R

[El scooto]

Just fitted up Dorris's rally screen this afternoon. Doesn't she look pretty!!

Here she is next to her younger brother

Chur

[cooneyr]

Just fitted up Dorris's rally screen this afternoon. Doesn't she look pretty!!

Here she is next to her younger brother

Chur

Damn that thing looks tiny next to the XTZ!

[twotyred]

This (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-225419708.htm) might be just the ticket for someone down South looking for a suitable little 'un

ride as is or buff it up some...

[JATZ]

Project anyone ?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Classic-vintage/auction-225679527.htm

[Skinny_Birdman]

Don't know if it's a bit premature to be thinking about this aspect of the SBC, but I was talking to my brother in law in the weekend about the need for a sweep vehicle. He is a serious 4WD nut as well as sort of a biker (has bikes, but would rather go 4WDing - strange chap), and he said it shouldn't be too much trouble to find someone amongst his buddies (or possibly him) to act as a sweep, to carry fuel, tools, spare pistons and to tow a trailer to pick up any two smokers that happen to expire unexpectedly, and their hapless riders. We had a sweep on the 2 day Dusty Butt last year (Nordie's brothers and the doughty Toyota Smurf) and it was excellent back up for the rider who was unfortunate enough to loose his sump plug and spread his oil liberally along the road. To my mind, more to the point with our wee bikes is not carrying fuel and the possibility of getting stranded when the bikes cry enough.

Anyway, should I look into this, or does someone else already have someone in mind? The way I see it we should probably be stumping up their gas money and possibly their accommodation in Fairlie (so it might not be cheap....)?? Also, are we any closer to fixing a date? Again, possibly premature, but we are going to have to figure it out sooner or later. Your thoughts, gentlemen?

Cheers
A

[NordieBoy]

A sweep would be most usefull especially for the SBC.

On the 2-dayer it's brilliant as you don't have to carry your tent/sleeping bag etc over the whole 1000km and as the 2-day is more suited to the cruisier riders and not-so-confidant adventurers, carrying all that extra gear on the back can make it far less enjoyable.

An SBC/1 dayer can always drop back to the 2-day if they have too many problems/monkey butt etc. and still continue and finish the ride.

Most of the 2-day bikes are capable of carrying a 125 on the rear rack for at least a short time :D

[XF650]

There's approx 20 fords in the Nevis & depending on the day, some can be deepish. So yes, a sweep trailer could be quite handy for the wee bikes in that area alone.

[cooneyr]

I agree completely guys that we need a sweep to carry fuel, oil, parts, gear, broken down bikes etc. My wife and I talked about the possibility of her driving our Vitara with a trailer which she is happy to do and the Vitara would handle it fine. I really dont think it will matter who does this but it is good to know we have options.

I also think that the SBC guys should put enough gear in the sweep so that if they get to the 2 dayers overnight point say 16+hrs into it they can call it quits and do the run over two days.

Re dates there will not be a date that suits all so I will run a poll with options shortly to find out what date suites the majority. As previously mentioned this year is a bit awkward for dates.

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

Sweet as. Just let me know if we need to exercise the option.

Cheers
A

[El scooto]

Hey,

Went for a little blat with Alex this morning. We discovered a couple of things. Cruise speeds are about the same, Alex's bike is reliable and has decent suspension. Dorris on the other hand dosen't like her chain so keeps trying to get rid of it and my suspension is designed for a 10 yr old person. Not so shit hot with a fatty on board.

Oh yeah and the second time she threw her chain it broke the side cover and also now the clutch is way out of adjustment (not working).

So good times !!! Getting a feel for what the DB SBC is going to possible be like. Lot's of time on the side of the road.


Cheers
John

[Skinny_Birdman]

Yes, any hope that the SBC would be an uneventful pootle can now, I suspect, be safely put to bed. It must be said that we were flogging the bikes through terrain a bit more challenging than what the Dusty Butt is likely to throw at us, but even so... Today's final score: 40km travelled, 2 thrown chains, one damaged engine sidecover (where the chain bit it), one broken indicator on the Brazilian (Honda Amazonia XLR) and play called off after less than two hours. The XLR also demonstarted a startling tendency for the front brakes to seize in the off position (fucked cable sleeve is the culprit) and slips into neutral at the most inopportune moments. Overall: :rofl:
These bikes really are comically slow. I got blown away at the lights by a Ford Laser stationwagon on the way out, and my bike seems to out-accelerate the LT 2 (or at least I flog it more mercilessly). As Scoot says, 80-85 is a comfy cruising speed, when the bikes are functioning. Bring on the next test - when yer bike's ready Scoot! :rockon:

[Skinny_Birdman]

Alex's bike... has decent suspension.

These things are decidedly relative. I bottomed it out more than once, on pretty tame bumps, and you couldn't call me a fatty...... When adjusting the chain I can compress the rear suspension past the straight-line point with one hand.

[cooneyr]

Getting me a SBC bike shortly. Repo deal through a shop in NN! Only done 5000kms. Hope to get my hands on it in a couple of weekends. Plan on sticking on so knobblies and getting it muddy :wari:

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Now thats the perfect SBC bike.

[Willdat?]

I was looking at a 4 year old NXR125 a few months back, but decided it would be cheating!

[cooneyr]

Now thats the perfect SBC bike.

Well see - it will have to haul around 130kgs of rider and gear. Not sure it was ever intended for that. Should be a fun play bike in the mean time.


I was looking at a 4 year old NXR125 a few months back, but decided it would be cheating!

The old thing was driven by the need for cheep bikes and making it a challange. El Scooto managed to find a really tidy old smoker and we have not seen anything like it since. Besides this whole idea is his so if it is going to be a challange, it should be a challange for him - crazy bloody idea ;)

You dont have to have an old bike, its just that there are very few options for a modern road reg 125. The NXR125 is about the only "trailish" modern 125 that is road regable. There are way more 70's and 80's options. I would have got something older but this was cheep (repo deal) and it should be OK for my wife to get into riding a bit more.

Just get whatever you can aford that you think will be up to the task given your level of skill at keeping it going. There is more kudos for riding an older bike or a smoker and heaps of kudos for riding and old smoker :laugh: :Punk:

Cheers R

[Willdat?]

With my level of riding/fixing experience my DR250 will be challenging enough...and by the time it's rebuilt an NXR125 would have been cheaper! :gob:

Will be back on the road in a week apparently....

[Racing Dave]

...is just a CG125 with proper suspension, five gears, and electric start. I predict more than one in the SBC.

[Skinny_Birdman]

Nice one R. I was at my mate's farm during the week (to get some welding done on my TT-R amongst other things) and he happened to mention that he had the bones of an XL200 in one of his many sheds. It had already been extensively 'spares recovered' and I have now relieved it of 1 rear sprocket stud, and the rear rack (SCORE!!!!!) both of which fit the 125. The bikes seem quite similar, so if you need parts, let me know. BTW, I hope for your sake it doesn't need a chain and sproks......

[El scooto]

Nice one R. I was at my mate's farm during the week (to get some welding done on my TT-R amongst other things) and he happened to mention that he had the bones of an XL200 in one of his many sheds. It had already been extensively 'spares recovered' and I have now relieved it of 1 rear sprocket stud, and the rear rack (SCORE!!!!!) both of which fit the 125. The bikes seem quite similar, so if you need parts, let me know. BTW, I hope for your sake it doesn't need a chain and sproks......

Any sightings of some ag100 bikes about? Pretty sure I coud do with another engine up my sleeve. Me thinks a smoker is not the brightest idea for the DBSMC. To late now though.

We'll have to organise some more long distance rides some time soon to start figuring out range and the like (seeing if we could possibly pull this off!!)

Chur

[El scooto]

Also, CooneyR has mentioned stickers for the DB challenge, I thinking of making another to compliment it for the SBC challenge people. Nahe no price or anything yet, probably onle a couple of mullars.

Chur

[cooneyr]

Nice one R. I was at my mate's farm during the week (to get some welding done on my TT-R amongst other things) and he happened to mention that he had the bones of an XL200 in one of his many sheds. It had already been extensively 'spares recovered' and I have now relieved it of 1 rear sprocket stud, and the rear rack (SCORE!!!!!) both of which fit the 125. The bikes seem quite similar, so if you need parts, let me know. BTW, I hope for your sake it doesn't need a chain and sproks......

Thanks for the info. BTW I have a Mig in the shed and am happy to help with anything not too serrious. Speaking of which I'm keen to have alook at the trail rack at some stage cause I'll have to be making my own. Whats up re the chain and sprockets? "Shouldn't" need them, its only done 5000kms


Also, CooneyR has mentioned stickers for the DB challenge, I thinking of making another to compliment it for the SBC challenge people. Nahe no price or anything yet, probably onle a couple of mullars.

Chur

Go for it bro. You design something up and I'll arrange printing. Easy enough to get the guys I use to print them as well as the ride ones.

Cheers R

[cooneyr]

A possible bike for the SBC. Tardeme (http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.aspx?id=234744042). DF125 looks like it's got all the goods to road reg it including an old plate. Its located in Timaru.

http://images.trademe.co.nz/photoserver/39/100628139_full.jpg

Cheers R

[Jantar]

Good on you, Birdman, a four-stroke bike of any kind is the way to go, and Hondas top the list.

My prediction (from the safety of 6 months till the ride!) is that no two-stroke under 125cc will finish ahead of any same capacity four-stroke.

If current plans come together, I'll be testing my CG for range next Saturday.

PS to Ryan - any thoughts on settling on a date yet?

I've been reading this thread with interest, having already committed to the time off work. I had planned on using my DL1000, but now with that challenge being issued I shall try and find a TC, TF or TS at a reasonable price and prove the old two smokers can still do it. What's more I shall take up the challenge issued earlier in the thread and the bike, fuel and everything else will be under $1000. :scooter:

[Waihou Thumper]

I've been reading this thread with interest, having already committed to the time off work. I had planned on using my DL1000, but now with that challenge being issued I shall try and find a TC, TF or TS at a reasonable price and prove the old two smokers can still do it. What's more I shall take up the challenge issued earlier in the thread and the bike, fuel and everything else will be under $1000. :scooter:

That is a big ask. I read this thread last night and was very interested. I got onto the web and searched, not the adventure bikes I usually go for but the clunkers under $1500.:scooter:
I was impressed but at the end of the day, I got to get there, ride and then get back, so it does make for an interesting challenge...
Maybe this year I will ride the KTM and next year, buy one of the smaller bikes off someone....
I still think it would be awesome on a small bike, imagine the scenery, it would not whizz by, it would just sort of flow at a nice slideshow sort of pace...:yes:

[Jantar]

That is a big ask. I read this thread last night and was very interested. I got onto the web and searched, not the adventure bikes I usually go for but the clunkers under $1500.:scooter:
I was impressed but at the end of the day, I got to get there, ride and then get back, so it does make for an interesting challenge...
Maybe this year I will ride the KTM and next year, buy one of the smaller bikes off someone....
I still think it would be awesome on a small bike, imagine the scenery, it would not whizz by, it would just sort of flow at a nice slideshow sort of pace...:yes:

I've looked through tardme and there are one or two that may be suitable. There is the DF125 (even if it is a 4 stroke), but also a TS125 in Dunedin that looks like it could be made legal without too much trouble. And there are a couple of TF125s also if they have been or can be made legal that could be suitable. I'll be in Dunedin this weekend and if the TS hasn't sold before then I'll have a look at it.

[zeRax]

man, i reckon the sbc would be nailed on a bike like this
i imagine a bike like this could do 110kmph two up.

pretty awesome, hot DAMN i want it!




yea NZKTM, its a long way to go from here, so i really wanna finish it without probs, that would be great

[Skinny_Birdman]

Any sightings of some ag100 bikes about? Pretty sure I coud do with another engine up my sleeve. Me thinks a smoker is not the brightest idea for the DBSMC. To late now though.
Had a quick shufti, but all the bits of mine have disappeared, and I couldn't find the other one. My mate is under strict instructions to capture and secure any AG he might find roaming the property, and to contact me immediately.

We'll have to organise some more long distance rides some time soon to start figuring out range and the like (seeing if we could possibly pull this off!!)
Yes, and I'll need a brake cable. Will order it today.

Thanks for the info. BTW I have a Mig in the shed and am happy to help with anything not too serrious. Speaking of which I'm keen to have alook at the trail rack at some stage cause I'll have to be making my own.
Make that two, pretty please? The bloody thing doesn't quite fit. The mounts are perfect but it doesn't clear the plastics. I'll bring it round one arvo and we can see if we can hack it about to fit. (The welding on the TT was the headlight - new one=$270, but Don very kindly sold me an XJ 750 one for $30. We cut the XJ mounts of and migged on the TT ones. Apart from a few black spots on the top of the reflector it's sweet as). Good of you to offer your welding services! You may regret this....

Whats up re the chain and sprockets? "Shouldn't" need them, its only done 5000kms
What's up is that the standard rear sprocket, which has five studs rivetted into it, isn't available as an A/M part (ie a JT sprocket). Instead, you have to buy the sprocket, then some studs to bolt into it. These come in packs of four, at $36 each. Hence my delight at recovering a fifth.

Good to see we have a few more potential punters!

[cooneyr]

I've been reading this thread with interest, having already committed to the time off work. I had planned on using my DL1000, but now with that challenge being issued I shall try and find a TC, TF or TS at a reasonable price and prove the old two smokers can still do it. What's more I shall take up the challenge issued earlier in the thread and the bike, fuel and everything else will be under $1000. :scooter:

Hmmm 1000cc or $1000 :laugh:. If nothing else this is going to be a barrel of laughs. Well maybe untill about 20 hours in when the vision will start to blur with tiredness and everthing will seem a little sureal. Next morning though - the glory will be ours :Punk: On a more serious note, good luck with the bike hunting!


man, i reckon the sbc would be nailed on a bike like this
i imagine a bike like this could do 110kmph two up.


Ya bloody cheat - you already own it. New rule just for all the modern bike riders i.e. YOU. Your not allowed to go any faster than El Scooto on his 74 100cc LT2 smoker LOL. From what I hear the LT2 just about had more legs than the XLR125's. For how long is another question though.


....Make that two, pretty please? The bloody thing doesn't quite fit. The mounts are perfect but it doesn't clear the plastics. I'll bring it round one arvo and we can see if we can hack it about to fit..... Good of you to offer your welding services! You may regret this....

What's up is that the standard rear sprocket, which has five studs rivetted into it, isn't available as an A/M part (ie a JT sprocket). Instead, you have to buy the sprocket, then some studs to bolt into it. These come in packs of four, at $36 each. Hence my delight at recovering a fifth.

Good to see we have a few more potential punters!

No worries on the rear rack. I'm sure we can "modify", read hack, it into submission. No worries on the welding - you might need to invest in an angle grinder to make it look pretty though LOL (just kidding I've got one of those too :D). Welding and griding bits is all part of the fun. Thanks for the info on the sprockets.

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

New rule just for all the modern bike riders i.e. YOU. Your not allowed to go any faster than El Scooto on his 74 100cc LT2 smoker LOL. From what I hear the LT2 just about had more legs than the XLR125's. For how long is another question though.


Haw!! Does that mean we have to stop when it throws a leg out of bed? I would say performance is about even - if we don't get out and ride them again soon, both bikes will keep getting faster and faster in our minds, eh :msn-wink:?

[cooneyr]

More lil beasts on Tardme.

Another Suzuki DF125 (http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.aspx?id=236345160)
http://images.trademe.co.nz/photoserver/58/101295758_full.jpg

A Honda SL100 (http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.aspx?id=236344178)
http://images.trademe.co.nz/photoserver/0/100692100_full.jpg

A Kawasaki KV100 (http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.aspx?id=236267881) (G4TR ag version) dual ratio!
http://images.trademe.co.nz/photoserver/34/101257334_full.jpg

El Scooto and I are off on a fuel range and reliability testing run this morning. Should be interesting given my XLR125's clutch is about die (slipping). Cool we bike given my spin around the block last night.

Cheers R

[JATZ]

Honda SL100 (http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.aspx?id=236344178)
Cheers R

That one should be on the wall of coolness :headbang:

[Eddieb]

That is pretty cool, and far too tidy for you heathens to get your hands on and mutilate for the SBC.

[Jantar]

OK, I've made a start. Picked up a 1978 TS125 yesrterday for $300. It has a flat front tyre, the headlight is being held on by a single bolt, and it doesn't start. The wiring is a mess, but it looks like everything (lights indicators etc) is there.

My estimate is $100 to get it going, and a further $200 - $300 to make it road worthy. So I'm on target to doing the entire sbc for less than $1000.

[cooneyr]

Yesterdays spin was a laugh. 200kms of seal, geravel and tracks, all as fast as the poor wee bikes would go. Flat out was 80kph (well as fast as we wanted to thrash them anyway). I'm pertty knackered from yanking the front end up over puddles, rocks etc so we didn't have to slow down. The XLR125's used between 3.5-4.5L/100km's so they should be good for 200kms per tank. El's Yammy LT2 100cc smoker used about 6-7l/100km - he'll be carrying plenty of extra fuel (tank will only do about 100km) but not on the factory rack cause that broke with 5l onboard over the rough stuff. Appart from the rack other problems included indicators vibrating to bits front axle nut comming lose and having to be taped on! All in all pretty minor given the thrashing they took. My clutch held up OK but definatly needs replacement as does the oil in forks and shocks (if possible on both El's and my bike).

In the tight windy sections we left mother duck (Transalper on his DR650) behind but then I dont think he was trying quite as hard as us :laugh:

Bring it on!

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

I had a few late braking moments during the day, and appear to have toasted my front shoes (brake shoes that is, although I was dragging my boots on the ground too, as they are more effective than either brakes). I am afraid to pull them apart, because I promised myself no more parts before the main event. I think I will do any further training rides on the TT, which is moderately more robust but shares a similar comfort level.

Cheers
A

[cooneyr]

Pic's of the ride, Mother Duck and the ducklings. Ohh and a cow with a view.

Cheers R

[cooneyr]

Just so it is clear to all, we are going to whole hog with the SBC challange i.e. a one day run. I've had a comment from somebody that though we were going to do a two day run.

I'd strongly suggest that we all take basic sleeping gear etc in the support vehicle so that we can call it quits if somebody has had enough. Hope you are all up for 24+ hours of riding. Being awake and physically exerting yourself for 24 hours can do screwy things to your head.

Cheers R

[zeRax]

clear as bells, 1 day flying on the 125 ^_^,


may us 2 strokers go without seizure and plugs no foul,
thankyou!

[Skinny_Birdman]

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/buyinprivate_2063_753639150

Bring it on.

[JATZ]

Bring it on.

Washed down with a RedBull/V cocktail :yes:

[cooneyr]

Washed down with a RedBull/V cocktail :yes:

Nuh uh never again. I don't drink coffee but I swigged a V or similar one evening when I was driving from Queenstown back to Te Anau at 1am one morning after leaving Te Anau for Milford at 5.45am the previous morning i.e. Te Anau, Milford work 12 hours, to Queenstown (via Te Anau) and back to Te Anau. I was seeing all sorts of shit (possums, sheep, cows, rabbits etc) running across the road, corners we jumping out at me from no where. Screw that!!!

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

may us 2 strokers go without seizure and plugs no foul,
thankyou!

Thought you had a 4 stroke?

Or have 2 strokes fallen off it already?

[zeRax]

let me know when next nelson ride out is and what ya's are doing and i may introduce you to killer death xtreme machine

[Skinny_Birdman]

Thought you had a 4 stroke?

Or have 2 strokes fallen off it already?

Or perhaps it burns so much oil he can't tell anymore.:rofl: I'm looking forward to seeing the mighty postie in action.

[cooneyr]

....killer death xtreme machine


Or perhaps it burns so much oil he can't tell anymore.:rofl: I'm looking forward to seeing the mighty postie in action.

Hint for ya - see zerax's quote above. It is suppose to burn oil i.e. it aint a postie any more!

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

It's not GREEN is it?

[zeRax]

anythings possible! :) need a new tyre, 3 road legal bikes in garage atm, all trail worthy :X one little red one still :P

[cooneyr]

Well since my wife is officially up the duff we now need a SBC chase vehicle driver. Skinny Birdman you mentioned your brother a while ago - is that still an option? If not does anybody else know a driver - could probably use our LWB Vitara?

Cheers R

[zeRax]

??? how far north is the duff, whens she back?






Grats dude :P!!



Well since my wife is officially up the duff we now need a SBC chase vehicle driver. Skinny Birdman you mentioned your brother a while ago - is that still an option? If not does anybody else know a driver - could probably use our LWB Vitara?

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

WSkinny Birdman you mentioned your brother a while ago - is that still an option? If not does anybody else know a driver - could probably use our LWB Vitara?



Will talk to my bro-in-law, if not him then one of his 4wd club buddies would no doubt be up for it. What do we reckon about paying for sweep's fuel/accommodation?

Cheers
A

[cooneyr]

Will talk to my bro-in-law, if not him then one of his 4wd club buddies would no doubt be up for it. What do we reckon about paying for sweep's fuel/accommodation?

Cheers
A

That would cost more than all of our fuel cost combined! Still if needs must and all that and I really think we should. 1200kms at about 10l/100km = 120l plus probably 60l (180 total) getting to and from Chch. $1.10l for diesel or $1.70l for petrol is about $200 for diesel or about $300 for petrol. Accomidation is about $100 for Fri and Sat nights. $300 or $400 total

There is about 6 of us so cost per person would be between $50 and $65 each. Thats not cheep - what say you all? Zerax, Racing Dave, Skinny Birdman, El Scooto, Jantar can you let us know what you all think.

Other option is we all take a good ammount of warm clothes (poly pro and fleece or similar), a survival blanket, a wallet and make sure we all have enough fuel for 200km and just go hard. If we need to stop we find a sheltered spot/hay shed/farm/pub/motel etc and call it quits there. If a bike breaks down we ditch it, go two up to nearest accomidation and drop rider there. Next day we mount a bike and rider recovery mission from a car and trailer previously parked in Omarama or similar (mid course). The XLR125's are pillion capable.

This is not ideal (depending on your perspective) but I dont see any real risk to riders wellbeing just a little bit of discomfort (sleeping rough for a night) and besides this whole thing will be uncomfortable! This is effectively what the other one day riders will have to do as they dont have a support vehicle. If we work in a team/s then I believe we can pull this off though as with the support vehicle idea some may not finish.

Cheers R

[Transalper]

Shit I'll cart my own gear. Oh... SBC... never mind.

Two dayers will probably be coming up behind you each morning.
You leave.... we leave.... we may pass you if your in trouble then stop at overnight place.... you pass us back or pull further ahead while we sleep... in the morning we set off again and may or may not see you again depending upon your breakdowns.

[Racing Dave]

Hi all, I'm a big fan of self-sufficiency, and will take responsibility for my own problems, if any.

Honda + careful prep + bit of luck = trouble-free run

As an aside, congratulations, Ryan.

[Skinny_Birdman]

Firstly, I'd just like to say:

The XLR125's are pillion capable.

:rofl:

And secondly, the biggest issue would be fuel, particularly for Scoot, Zerax (apparently), and anyone else foolish enough to be bringing a stink wheel. And ditto those comments on reliability. I really hadn't considered carrying everything, and I'd rather spend the $60, but I'll go with the majority (obviously). And if anyone has a small topbox for sale, I'm interested as of now.

[El scooto]

I'd be comfortable with minimal or no support vehicle; and i'm one of the most likely to need one! If we take enough fuel for each leg and warm clothes and wallet, shouldn't be a huge problem. Add's to the challenge.

Some good preperation will definately minimise problems.

A couple more fuel/reliability run's may not hurt to get a good handle on things. Mainly DB style orientated.

Chur

[zeRax]

i dont mind looking after myself. kinda like to think ill be alright actually !

i dont know anything about route or such thou. i gotta sort my gps out and get my arse into gear , other wise itll be right here and ill be like uh oh!

only thing i would be concerned of, is if something did go boom by chance, and bike being lost in the wilderness, i dont mind sleeping next to it or such if i had too.

but getting bike back to base or such, thats what id be concerned about ?

will trailer bike to whereever,

also whats the run down on some accom near start and end?, id trailer from blenheim, anyone else going down with a trailer? can someone give me the lowdown on what ppl are doing for accomodation


ive been trolling through enough threads D:

[cooneyr]

....only thing i would be concerned of, is if something did go boom by chance, and bike being lost in the wilderness, i dont mind sleeping next to it or such if i had too

but getting bike back to base or such, thats what id be concerned about ?....

I wouldnt be too worried about the bike disappearing - aint much out there! We will be trailering bikes down and can use the vitara and trailer to go bike recovering on the Sunday.

Cheers R

[cooneyr]

Another possible bike on Tardme CT125 (http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.aspx?id=238521895). Needs reg and indicators but sounds tidy otherwise.

http://images.trademe.co.nz/photoserver/83/104243083_full.jpg

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

We will be trailering bikes down and can use the vitara and trailer to go bike recovering on the Sunday.


Is there room on your trailer for my wee XLR, ex Christchurch? I promise I won't take up much room, and otherwise I'll have to ride down :shit:.

[cooneyr]

Is there room on your trailer for my wee XLR, ex Christchurch? I promise I won't take up much room, and otherwise I'll have to ride down :shit:.

I'm sure we can squeze them on. That will probably make 5 in the car though.

Cheers R

[JATZ]

Another possible bike on Tardme CT125 (http://www.trademe.co.nz/a.aspx?id=238521895). Needs reg and indicators but sounds tidy otherwise.

Cheers R

Mines for sale if there's someone mad enough to ride it

[Skinny_Birdman]

I'm sure we can squeze them on. That will probably make 5 in the car though.

Cheers R

Awesome! If I can convince D to do the two dayer, I can pillion down on the back of the Tranny, saving a space in the car. I just can't quite fit the XLR in the top box.

[cooneyr]

Another one on Tardme - XLR125 (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Dual-purpose/auction-234995471.htm). Not road reg but looks real tidy. $1500 and 3k km.

http://images.trademe.co.nz/photoserver/31/100738231_full.jpg

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

Just like yours has 5k km :devil2:. Now 30k km, that's an honest reading... Seriously, while it's obviously tidier than ours, $1500 is an awful lot for a bike you're still gonna have to get to the south island, and get road reg. And that chain looks a bit, um, rusty - always a good look with roller chains!


Another one on Tardme - XLR125 (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Dual-purpose/auction-234995471.htm). Not road reg but looks real tidy. $1500 and 3k km.

[Skinny_Birdman]

Had the front wheel off the XLR in the weekend to inspect the brakes, following the Lees Valley race I mean ride. Shoes are fine, drum is really shiny ie glazed. Ah well, nothing 1000km of adventure riding won't fix.

[cooneyr]

Just like yours has 5k km :devil2:. Now 30k km, that's an honest reading... Seriously, while it's obviously tidier than ours, $1500 is an awful lot for a bike you're still gonna have to get to the south island, and get road reg. And that chain looks a bit, um, rusty - always a good look with roller chains!

I replaced the clutch over the weekend and mine has definitely done more than 5k kms. The ammount of crap in the centrifugal oil filter suggest its had a pretty hard life and well in excess of those kms.


Had the front wheel off the XLR in the weekend to inspect the brakes, following the Lees Valley race I mean ride. Shoes are fine, drum is really shiny ie glazed. Ah well, nothing 1000km of adventure riding won't fix.

That would explain the grabbing. Bit of rough sand paper? I was hoping to do some work on the tail racks this weekend but TA has distracted me with the Canty Rides BP ride on Saturday and I want to spend some time with the "oven" on Sunday. One weekend I'll get onto this!

Cheers R

[El scooto]

Hey, decided I would change the rear tyre on Dorris the other day. After 5mins of driving the axle out I thought to myself 'this ain't gunna be good'. Bearings - rooted! Brake glazed and bit's of rust and crap everywhere. BUGGER!

So got new bearings and seals $18 - sweet!
Checked the spokes, one's a little loose. No problem I have a tool for this kind of thing. Result - broken!

Ahh good times!!!!

[Skinny_Birdman]

Checked the spokes, one's a little loose. No problem I have a tool for this kind of thing. Result - broken!


Perhaps you spoke too soon.... Have now located a teeny topbox to go on the XLR, and CooneyR has promised to examine my rack this weekend (Phwoar) with a view to bodging it onto the XLR.

[Skinny_Birdman]

Oh, and we just booked our tickets for our Xmas trip to Germany. We'll be back on about the 13th of Jan, so 3 days for the buns to recover from the flight before the big day. Uh oh.......

[Willdat?]

I was almost convinced to do the sbc on a modified version of my Shanyang, but maybe next year. The plan is to build a 50 cc adventure bike registered as a moped, possibly based on a 125 2 stroke frame etc.

If anyone has something suitable let me know...

[El scooto]

Picked up another couple of old girls for 'Dorris' as parts bikes. A 74 ag100 and a later model year unknown. So......

Dorris is going to have a bigger tank, proper air box, replaced rear wheel, front and back syspension of the later model one and more racks than your average spring lamb! Will be awhile before she's road worthy again but it's totally worth it

Not much of the original but she'll be a adventure beast at the end:niceone:

[Skinny_Birdman]

Not much of the original but she'll be a adventure beast at the end:niceone:

No, she'll be a farm bike:devil2:. Have you got the spring-loaded rack that goes over the headlight? I always found that useful on mine.

CooneyR has very kindly chopped my XL 200 rack to bits with the surgical precision of his angle grinder. It has emerged phoenix-like as a perfectly fitted and braced XLR 125 rack. Cheers buddy!

[El scooto]

OK fine yes it will be a farm bike. Yep will put the front rack on as well, It can hold tools or tubes or something. The tank is 11L which is a good amount larger than the 7L original.

A little sad that it will be loosing most of the original pretty bits, but it will be functional for the task. The air box will provide a proper filter and hopefully stop it getting drowned so easy, but it will mean I have to premix the fuel as it goes in the same place as the oil tank.

[Skinny_Birdman]

A little sad that it will be loosing most of the original pretty bits, but it will be functional for the task. The air box will provide a proper filter and hopefully stop it getting drowned so easy, but it will mean I have to premix the fuel as it goes in the same place as the oil tank.

You can always return it to it's former glory afterward, and at least you won't scratch the sh** out of the pretty purple tank. Doesn't the AG oil tank fit around the AG airbox?

[El scooto]

Haven't quite figured out where it goes yet. To late now as the oil pump was removed by Ryan yesterday. She's looking good now with some slightly better syspension.
Deliberately keeping all of the shiny bits so they can be put on again later.

[cooneyr]

I just put the second tank of gas in my XLR125. Was wondering when it was finally going to run out. Took 8l for 270kms i.e. 3l/100km :woohoo: This was 50/50 urban/rural riding so may be a bit higher consumption for all rural riding.

You smoker fellas might be faster but I'll only have to stop 1/2 as many times (or less if your bikes die) :bleh:

Cheers R

[Crisis management]

Great write up in Kiwirider this month by Racing Dave....stand by for more entrants!



I think RD is planning on cheating, he's got a new bike for this and should be made to walk at least half the route. :innocent:

[cooneyr]

Great write up in Kiwirider this month by Racing Dave....stand by for more entrants!



I think RD is planning on cheating, he's got a new bike for this and should be made to walk at least half the route. :innocent:

Guessing I'd better go buy a copy on the way home tonight! Whats the new bike?

Cheers R

[Crisis management]

Honda NXR125ES, apparently a commuter / ag bike which he is frantically modding...bash plate, bar risers etc. :crazy:

Clearly almost a works bike and I suspect actually sponsored by Blue Wing Honda. Obviously time for some rules to be "refined". :innocent:

Good write up (2 pages even) with the credit to yourself well expressed, you should pat yourself on the back Ryan.

[El scooto]

Honda NXR125ES, apparently a commuter / ag bike which he is frantically modding...bash plate, bar risers etc. :crazy:

Clearly almost a works bike and I suspect actually sponsored by Blue Wing Honda. Obviously time for some rules to be "refined". :innocent:

He's not technecally breaking any rules, BUT it certainly takes some of the spirit out of it. Yes he will probably finish, no I prossibly will not, but will certainly be a challenge trying to get there. Most of the SBC bikes have been $1500 or under, granted the NXR dosen't cost much more brand new.

Where's the challenge if you know your gunna finish!

Maybe I'm just jealous. Hey YAMAHA, I could do with a sponser :clap:

Cheers

[Racing Dave]

Bought and paid for, as all the modifications have been, by me.

As it happens, I was down in Otago a week or two ago (biking the Rail Trail) and took the 'CG125 Adventure Special' along to see how it would cope with parts of the course (with Racing Maree pillioning). Low gearing was helpful, as the NXR is not a ball of fire. The decision to not use road-bike suspension is the right way to go, as the terrain will be very unforgiving on anything weak or elderly, and I don't just mean the riders.

A sub-sub-category for the Dusty Butt of two-up under 125cc would be a significant challenge, but Maree has declined that possibility!

[Skinny_Birdman]

A sub-sub-category for the Dusty Butt of two-up under 125cc would be a significant challenge, but Maree has declined that possibility!
My better half is still reluctant to give the two dayer a go on the Transalp, let alone getting squished onto the back of a 125 with me for the one dayer.

So the NXR is on stock gearing? I have gone quite a bit taller than stock (14:53 from memory, though I could be wrong), and last time I spoke to CooneyR he was talking about going even taller. It makes hill climbing a bit sluggish, but means that we won't be reving the t**s off the bikes on the long straights through the Haka etc. I'll be interested to see the 'Adventure Special' NXR.

[NordieBoy]

Hell. Noone has done the 2-dayer 2-up yet. Let alone the 1-dayer.

Balrog and MagicFairy tried on the 1st DB but exiting the Rainbow Jim got a bee sting beside his eye and had to give up.

[Racing Dave]

The NXR125 comes standard with 17/54 gearing, which is far too high for anything but downhill/tailwind riding. Even on the flat, response is sluggish.

I’ve gone to a 15T sprocket on the front, so now it’s buzzing at 80 km/h, but at least first gear is properly useable off-road, and the gaps between the gears have closed up to the extent that it’ll pull subsequent gears after each change, when riding uphill.

Two-up, Maree and I climbed the pylon track out of Clyde, towards Bannockburn, which is seriously steep on a little bike, and pretty rough with rocks and ruts, using a mix of 1st and 2nd – mainly first! We both had to lean forward to stop the front lifting. Good fun!

[cooneyr]

Finally managed to find a copy of the Mag at Auckland Airport on Sunday evening. Cool write up RD. Only thing is you make us sound like a bunch of complete nutters. Guess that's probably not too far from the truth though!


He's not technecally breaking any rules, BUT it certainly takes some of the spirit out of it. Yes he will probably finish, no I prossibly will not, but will certainly be a challenge trying to get there. Most of the SBC bikes have been $1500 or under, granted the NXR dosen't cost much more brand new.

Where's the challenge if you know your gunna finish!

Maybe I'm just jealous. Hey YAMAHA, I could do with a sponser :clap:

whaa whaa - just stap the spare engine on that massive tail rack you now have and you'll be right :lol:


....the terrain will be very unforgiving on anything weak or elderly, and I don't just mean the riders....

There is an irony worth watching. RD (an older gent) on a young buck of a bike and El (a young buck) on a older gent of a bike. Combined age of bike and rider is probably about the same.


...I’ve gone to a 15T sprocket on the front, so now it’s buzzing at 80 km/h, but at least first gear is properly useable off-road, and the gaps between the gears have closed up to the extent that it’ll pull subsequent gears after each change, when riding uphill.

I'm now running 15/53 instead of 13/53. Poor thing was fair humming at 80 with an absolute max of 90. Didn't really like doing even 80 cause it sounded like it was going to pop. Not been on the open road since the 15CS change but hoping that it is a little more relaxed at 80. Its much nicer to ride around town with the 15. I reckon it was under geared with the 13CS.

Cheers R

[Transalper]

It won't be the slipping clutch that stops you on hills now, it'll be the gearing instead. Better do another test ride. Worsleys Rd is close.

[cooneyr]

It won't be the slipping clutch that stops you on hills now, it'll be the gearing instead. Better do another test ride. Worsleys Rd is close.

I've replaced the clutch so no slipping any more. By the way I have the castelated nut removal tool for the centrifugal oil filter and it used to be used to remove the clutch on the older XL125S's. People are welcome to borrow it.

I went up Worselys with the 13CS and found that it would pull first easily and it was a bit rough for 2nd in most places. It would be good to do this and also do some high speed uphill runs as well cause I suspect that is where the biggest difference will be.

When El finishes his mods to the LT2 and gets it running again we will definitely be doing another run. Maybe a "race pace" run for a couple of hundred kms around Banks Peninsular.

Cheers R

[Peril]

I'm now running 15/53 instead of 13/53. Poor thing was fair humming at 80 with an absolute max of 90. Didn't really like doing even 80 cause it sounded like it was going to pop. Not been on the open road since the 15CS change but hoping that it is a little more relaxed at 80. Its much nicer to ride around town with the 15. I reckon it was under geared with the 13CS.

Cheers R

Hmm that's interesting on the gearing there Ryan.
I had an XL100s as my first (road legal) bike.It would pull 90km/h and I'm pretty sure that was at redline.As far as I know,it had stock sized sprockets,but I could be wrong as we're talking 16 years ago here :pinch:

[El scooto]

When El finishes his mods to the LT2 and gets it running again we will definitely be doing another run. Maybe a "race pace" run for a couple of hundred kms around Banks Peninsular.

Cheers R

Yeah the old girl is going through a fair amount of surgery at the mo. Not a whole lot left of the pretty bits, but a few more practical bits. I've changed my gearing as well. Gone up from a 14T front to 15T with a 51T rear. Should be able to stretch the old limbs a bit more, whilst still being able to climb a hill. Fingers crossed!!

Once we get back from the pre run I'll get her sorted.

Cheers

[cooneyr]

Hmm that's interesting on the gearing there Ryan.
I had an XL100s as my first (road legal) bike.It would pull 90km/h and I'm pretty sure that was at redline.As far as I know,it had stock sized sprockets,but I could be wrong as we're talking 16 years ago here :pinch:

Stock gearing is 17 51 as far as I can figure. That would give about 110 - if you ever got there! I reckon my XLR has been used as an off road play bike hence the 13 53 gearing.

Cheers R

[Racing Dave]

There is an irony worth watching. RD (an older gent) on a young buck of a bike and El (a young buck) on a older gent of a bike. Combined age of bike and rider is probably about the same.





Indeed .

[cooneyr]

Indeed

Hey I was trying to be polite :whistle: I could have called you and old basted! :dodge:

I realised afterwards that the combined age of El and his bike is probably closer to 65 so that statement is probably a bit harsh.

Cheers R

[Racing Dave]

...but all will be revealed in January.

Cheers.

[Skinny_Birdman]

Hey I was trying to be polite :whistle: I could have called you and old basted! :dodge:

I realised afterwards that the combined age of El and his bike is probably closer to 65 so that statement is probably a bit harsh.


...but all will be revealed in January.

Cheers.

So you're really a 16 year old schoolgirl? Wow, it's normally the other way around....

[Skinny_Birdman]

Have been thinking and talking about the ride over the weekend, and I just want to clarify: When a bike throws a terminal spaz on the day, in the absence of a sweep vehicle, are we a) All going to stand around and wring our hands until 24 hours is up, b) All going to ride off into the sunset and leave a lonely looking rider standing in a cloud of dust and a pool of oil, c) Going to abandon the bike and take rider on pillion to next town, where we leave him to the tender mercies of the toothless banjo-plucking locals, or d) something else? I guess that the idea is to keep the group together on the day, so it is as well to discuss this in advance.

[Willdat?]

I was almost convinced to do the sbc on a modified version of my Shanyang, but maybe next year. The plan is to build a 50 cc adventure bike registered as a moped, possibly based on a 125 2 stroke frame etc.

If anyone has something suitable let me know...

Well I basically bought this bike without needing to build one, a 2003 Suzuki SMX 50, currently undergoing reliability trials, but if all goes well I should be there 2011 as we've got our first baby due Jan 2010!

[cooneyr]

Have been thinking and talking about the ride over the weekend, and I just want to clarify: When a bike throws a terminal spaz on the day, in the absence of a sweep vehicle, are we a) All going to stand around and wring our hands until 24 hours is up, b) All going to ride off into the sunset and leave a lonely looking rider standing in a cloud of dust and a pool of oil, c) Going to abandon the bike and take rider on pillion to next town, where we leave him to the tender mercies of the toothless banjo-plucking locals, or d) something else? I guess that the idea is to keep the group together on the day, so it is as well to discuss this in advance.

Option C. Or if possible/pratical we will tow the bike to the nearest farmers shed/ then proceed with option C. Also my wife and El's fiancee will be hanging around in the general area with a vitara and a trailer so if we tow the bike/pillion the rider to the nearest road end they could come and pick the person up.

Also El and I were talking over the weekend and we are seriously contemplating starting the run after the BBQ on the Friday night (around 8pm so a couple of hours of light to get into the swing of things). This way we should be in about Lawrence at morning and have the rest of the day's worth of light to let loose. Means the night section is being done when you are freshest i.e. least stuffed and then you have light to help out when your are most stuffed. From experiance with 24 hour orienteering events the sun comming up and things warming up is a great boost to moral. This is similar to the Grand Challange (and other thousand milers) apparoach I believe. Only issue is fuel but I'll look into options.

Cheers R

[cooneyr]

Is anybody other than El and I interested in the idea of starting late on the Friday night rather than early on the Sat morning? Fuel is still a major issue.

If you do a Sat morning start fuel will not be a problem except for Omarama closing at 8pm (dont think people will get there by then) but Otematata 29km away has 24hr fuel. Means the longest leg is 200kms (previous fuel stop is Cromwell which has an BP open till 12pm. Cromwell is at about the 750km mark so if you do a 40kph overall average and you leave at 5pm you should be there just on 12.

Cheers
Ryan

[zeRax]

starting at night could be a goer,

i think im gonna run my hid spotlight on my head :P, providing i dont get 22000 volts or whatever shoot into my neck, i think it'd be the tits for being able to see where im going o_O

[Transalper]

That might work well so long as you have clear air ahead.
It will make things like really bad fog if you're in dust... if the wee bikes can make dust :shifty:

[richyrich]

Well see - it will have to haul around 130kgs of rider and gear. Not sure it was ever intended for that. Should be a fun play bike in the mean time.



The old thing was driven by the need for cheep bikes and making it a challange. El Scooto managed to find a really tidy old smoker and we have not seen anything like it since. Besides this whole idea is his so if it is going to be a challange, it should be a challange for him - crazy bloody idea ;)

You dont have to have an old bike, its just that there are very few options for a modern road reg 125. The NXR125 is about the only "trailish" modern 125 that is road regable. There are way more 70's and 80's options. I would have got something older but this was cheep (repo deal) and it should be OK for my wife to get into riding a bit more.

Just get whatever you can aford that you think will be up to the task given your level of skill at keeping it going. There is more kudos for riding an older bike or a smoker and heaps of kudos for riding and old smoker :laugh: :Punk:

Cheers R
you can buy a new ktm exc125 that is road legal,now that would be cheating.

[cooneyr]

That might work well so long as you have clear air ahead.
It will make things like really bad fog if you're in dust... if the wee bikes can make dust :shifty:

:finger:


you can buy a new ktm exc125 that is road legal,now that would be cheating.

Yep that might be cheating just a little!

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

So where are the fuel issues if we start at night? I think I'd rather start at night. Do we need to place some caches?

[cooneyr]

So where are the fuel issues if we start at night? I think I'd rather start at night. Do we need to place some caches?

Issue is Kurow/Ranfurly/Lawrence. We will be going past these places between about 10pm and 6 to 8 am and they are all closed at this time with no 24hr fuel. Thinking of putting a cache of fuel down on the northern side of Danseys Pass which is about 1/2 way to Lawrence. Roughly 200km from the start and 200km from Lawrence. I've got a couple of options to consider for Lawrence but still working on this.

Cheers R

[Skinny_Birdman]

A bit quiet 'round here, innit?
Well I'm off to Deutschland for Christmas with the outlaws on Monday, but I'm all set to go with bike now (unbelievably) warranted (will wait until the last minute to rego) and with bark busters, pack rack and topbox fitted. I had to crop the levers quite a bit to fit the bark busters, which I thought might be a WOF issue, but apparently not.
I hope to find some kind of sheepskin thing to cover my gel seat cushion (long haul flight two days before - can you say DVT?), and if I get a chance this weekend I'll give the poor little thing an oil change, which I haven't done thus far.
So how is everyone else's prep going? I see we have gained another entrant in richyrich? Anyone been out pushing the envelope?

[Toureg]

***I hope to find some kind of sheepskin thing to cover my gel seat cushion (long haul flight two days before - can you say DVT?), and if I get a chance this weekend I'll give the poor little thing an oil change, which I haven't done thus far.***

Cheapest sheepskins are at the warehouse in the Pet bedding section. Nicely trimmed to an oval big enough for a tandem seat, and wide too. various pile lengths and only $19.99. Most of them dont have any sewn seams in them either.

[Skinny_Birdman]

***I hope to find some kind of sheepskin thing to cover my gel seat cushion (long haul flight two days before - can you say DVT?), and if I get a chance this weekend I'll give the poor little thing an oil change, which I haven't done thus far.***

Cheapest sheepskins are at the warehouse in the Pet bedding section. Nicely trimmed to an oval big enough for a tandem seat, and wide too. various pile lengths and only $19.99. Most of them dont have any sewn seams in them either.

Ta for that Toureg. I actually ended up getting a sheepskin cushion thing from a souvenir shop yesterday for about $25. It has a zip-pocket in the back, which my gel cushion fits into.

Catch you all in Jan - Merry Christmas SB challengers!

Cheers
A

[El scooto]

Umm yeah, things are a bit quiet!! Dorris's existance is on the rocks at the moment. She's had a bit of a transformation with some later model ag syspension, tank and seat. She dosen't like me any more and is running like shit. Going to try get her sorted before the big day. At this stage not looking hopefull. Wouldn't make it more than 100km's at the moment :(

[Racing Dave]

You know this is what you want...

[thepom]

bloody tidy little bike there fella....

[NordieBoy]

bloody tidy little bike there fella....

Should'a seen it when he first got it.
Rusted out piece of crap that looked like the Mongrel Mob had been using it as a firelighter.

:scooter:

[El scooto]

What's the happs fella's! How's everyones prep going?
Have had a bit of a play with Dorris, so hopefully I'l be a starter. Have been a bit slack over the silly period but next week when the hang over passes I'll be into it. Fingers crossed I'll be on the starting line.

Cheers

[cooneyr]

Seems I need to grease rear sus linkage bearings. Fingers crossed they are not trashed - not really hopeful though. Also got tyre changes to do. Hmmm shouldn't have just pulled the gib of the walls in the bedroom - between bikes, renovating and work its going to be a busy couple of weeks leading up to the dusty.

Cheers R

[TuckerBag]

Well, I bought an '04 NXR125 off Trademe from Gisborne for $900 back in November (the 10th) with the aim of riding it down to do the DB1k 2010 SBC.
I did the DB1k 2 dayer last year on my XT400 but crashed at Ryan's corner cracking a rib and had to pull out from day 2.
I have been setting it all up and checking it over to get familiar with it and also to get it reliable etc.
New chain and sprockets, geared to do about 90 kmph cruising and 100 kmph tailwind screaming. (13 tooth front 49 tooth rear). New swingarm/rear shock bearings, new front fork fliud, regrease steering head bearings, weld up pack rack, replace cardboard air filter with 2 dish washing sponges (pink) :-) Added indicators to make it street legal.
I could go on..., and on...

I have been keeping it quiet as I have been really busy with work and there has always been a big question mark over whether I will be able to make it or not.
Well it is now crunch time and I have to make the call.
I can't make it due to clients needing work done urgently. F*!##@*#&#!!

I did cover some of the course when I took my XT down for the Burt Munroe Challenge. I enjoyed that immensely. See my blog (http://xt400adventureriding.blogspot.com/2009/12/bmc-day3-fairlie-to-invercargil.html)

Oh well, I guess I will just have to make sure I am there for next year.
Have a good ride guys. I am expecting a few SBC riders to embarrass some of the "others"

Cheers, (from a quite disappointed) Tuckerbag.

P.S. To be COMPLETELY honest, I am slightly relieved not to be attending as the thought of doing approx 4500km on an NXR125 over 6 days is, in some ways, not really all that appealing.
The NXR does have quite a comfortable seat though, compared to the XT anyway.

[NordieBoy]

Good to hear from you.

Excellent purchase :D

But sad news :(