Sh 43

**Vagabond** · 1st January 2007, 09:51

Hey guys I was bored the other day and was having a look through my map and came across SH43, marked on the map as the 'Heritage Trail' and I think it's also known as the 'Forgotten Highway' correct me if I'm wrong.

SH43 runs between Taumarunui and Stratford.

Now I know that the middle section has a bit of metal but wanted to know if anyone has been down it lately and what sort of condition it's actually in?
Bearing in mind I will be doing it on my Z1000

No dates planned as yet but when I next find myself with a bit of freedom I'm keen to try it out!

Your thoughts suggestions welcomed!

**Firefight** · 1st January 2007, 10:00

Did this road in Novemeber in a vehicle slightly bigger than the road was designed for, (got there, but only just) great drive lots of cool scenery, would be good on a bike if you were not in too much of a hurry, and the weather was okay.. pm me if you need more info.

F/F

edit, heres a link thingy that may be of interst

http://www.forest-lodge.co.nz/Forgotten_Highway.htm

**Vagabond** · 1st January 2007, 10:14

Hey that was a cool linky thingy, which way would you recommend going? ie from Stratford up or Taumarunui down, bearing in mind if on the dirt I prefer riding uphill!

P.S. I learnt not to be in a hurry whilst touring unless the road is really twisty then I can't help myself but to have a little fun!

Cheers mate!

**Firefight** · 1st January 2007, 10:22

Originally Posted by Vagabond

Hey that was a cool linky thingy, which way would you recommend going? ie from Stratford up or Taumarunui down, bearing in mind if on the dirt I prefer riding uphill!

P.S. I learnt not to be in a hurry whilst touring unless the road is really twisty then I can't help myself but to have a little fun!

Cheers mate!

Ive only done it Stratford to Taumarunui, most of the metal road in the gorge bit was flat as I recall, just make sure you got plenty of petrol before you head off, can,t recall there being many petrol stations in the middle bit.

Like I said some great views, just watch out for stock truck & trailers, and the odd 5 axle b train..

F/F

**trumpy** · 1st January 2007, 10:23

Sensei and Nadroj know this road pretty well. Check with them.
On my list to do as well in the next couple of weeks if this crappy weather will just give up and go away!

**Vagabond** · 1st January 2007, 10:28

Maybe we can try and organise a group ride some time?

Now that would be cool!

**pritch** · 2nd January 2007, 06:51

I haven't been over the Tangarakau section for a few months but it's no problem unless the grader has just been through. It is only 10K or so long.

Watch the tunnel, people have come unstuck in there, I don't think the floor is sealed. The rest of the road is God's own biking road.

On top of the Tahora saddle (the one before Whangamomona if you're heading south) is the Kaeto Cafe. Great views if the weather is kind, it's owned by a biking couple and it's a good place to stop.

**Vagabond** · 2nd January 2007, 07:33

Thanks for that mate, makes me want to drop everything right now and head on down!

**trumpy** · 2nd January 2007, 19:49

The weather forecast for the next few days is mint. Was thinking of doing this road either Friday or Saturday, if anyone else is interested I'd be happy for company.

**Sensei** · 2nd January 2007, 20:38

Saturday would be good for me if ya need the guided tour .

**Vagabond** · 2nd January 2007, 21:00

Originally Posted by trumpy

The weather forecast for the next few days is mint. Was thinking of doing this road either Friday or Saturday, if anyone else is interested I'd be happy for company.

I'm back at work tomorrow till Friday so Saturday would be good depending on how work goes, will be more in the know after tomorrow!

Let me know if Saturday suits?