Work.
Work :coffeescreen: through this shite!
The local garage for MOT and just a plane flew through yippeeeeeeeeeee!!!
Work and Home on the teapot (I effin hate this bike)
Yep got mine out at last smooth ride up and down the coast road and a bit of dual carriageway to open her up a bit ops Cold through :onya:
:hat:
With all the snow about - the GS is relegated to the warming up the garage!
WE were hoping for a ride down the Baja to Cabo in the Spring but that doesn't look like it will happen.
This was last year to Crater Lake - it was another sub zero bash! Lots of ice - no one went down!!! Heated gear cranked
:cheers:
Stan
We attended DGR on Gold Coast today very well attended as Brisbane postponed till next Sunday as they couldn't get a Police escort today. DOH 🙄
More pics from last Sunday 👍
Ride with mates from the Ulysses Group, 320klms from home to Pickering Brook, on towards Toodjay and back around to Bakers Hill .. started raining on the last 20k
I was lucky to draw the raffle ticket to draw for the Joker .. only 3 cards left and I drew a 6 🙄😩😩 only 2 cards left now to win $660
Quote from: Globalrider on Sunday, 12 February 2017, 02:48 AM:hat:
With all the snow about - the GS is relegated to the warming up the garage!
WE were hoping for a ride down the Baja to Cabo in the Spring but that doesn't look like it will happen.
This was last year to Crater Lake - it was another sub zero bash! Lots of ice - no one went down!!! Heated gear cranked
:cheers:
Stan
That looks to cold for this bloke 🥶
@GSXKING Had a look on maps at your location, reminds me of South Africa. Must be a lovely place to live/ ride. Me fed up of apartment buildings in Lisbon, where I live. Always wanted to travel to Australia, never done it. And I´m in the airline industry. Guess I´ll go there some time, and take the GSX :) .
Jeykey, you should visit. I live same area as GSX, one day until Winter, today rode with still Summer jacket & gloves. Perfect👍
Somewhere in the countryside.
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Quote from: grog on Wednesday, 29 May 2024, 06:17 PMJeykey, you should visit. I live same area as GSX, one day until Winter, today rode with still Summer jacket & gloves. Perfect👍
Here I get all year round riding. Me personally I just don´t do rain. I rather prefer cold weather, even for riding. Went up north in Norway to have a run (marathon), lovely cold!
Winter appears to have set in here in West Australia ... rain, hail and gusting wind. Not my kind of weather for riding. Waiting on delivery of the new HP filter and FI inline filter to turn up. My plan is to fit the new HP filter and see how that goes, I'll modify the original with the bypass hole and have that and the inline filter ready for 'next' time. Oh and I have a scratched decal to attend to. I like my bikes mint 😁
Went to cassington bike night yesterday (mon), it was heaving , I arrived at 6,30pm and the marshals were struggling to find parking spaces for the bikes that were arriving and this was the overflow bike park (re.giant sports field). As for the village centre you could barely move. I did see other 14's there , a black on a 55 plate parked near the pub. Also three leaving with a XJR1300. Any body on here??.
Still getting out twice a week here north of Wgton NZ. Days have been 9 or 10 and night temps down to 1 or 2 .
At 120 kph its chilly but my rides are just 160kms return (just a nice amount for this oldish fella!)
Wearing long johns under my full ex race suit (which has shrunk a bit around the middle !! lol ).
Up for a new knee so getting some riding in before the Op !!!!!
Good onya Roo. Yep it's starting to get cool now. Had a couple of rides of a similar duration, 160k round trip to see Dad. Not very bike fit now. Nice when it's warm.
Quote from: Roo on Wednesday, 03 July 2024, 10:10 AMStill getting out twice a week here north of Wgton NZ. Days have been 9 or 10 and night temps down to 1 or 2[/color] .
At 120 kph its chilly but my rides are just 160kms return (just a nice amount for this oldish fella!)
Wearing long johns under my full ex race suit (which has shrunk a bit around the middle !! lol ).
Up for a new knee so getting some riding in before the Op !!!!!
Those temps are not far away from our summer this year, had a week or so of nice warm temps but back to cool, damp & windy now, the liner only came out of my jacket a month ago be time to put it back in soon I recon :facepalm:
We went to Boonah and back Saturday morning very crisp & cool 🥶 by our standards. 13 deg to start 20 by midday.
Asahhh winter riding 🥸
Yesterday we rode to Esk via Coominya and Atkinson dam. Breakfast at Nash Gallery which was nice, it has new owners and they're still finding their feet. However the food was good and plentiful.
This weekend is our annual Christmas in July ride to Tenterfield Bowls Club.
Over Mt. Lindsay highway to Kyogle, Casino on to the Bruxner Highway and our destination for 🥩🥩🍺🍺🍺🎅🧑�🎄🎄🎄
Chilly by our standards 🥶🥶🥶
Sunday we ride to Warwick for Jumpers & Jazz festival (look it up).
Hopefully the wind will be kinder today.
Tenterfield to Warwick for jumpers and jazz watched our friend Desley do a set with the Stingrays, a very tight band 👍🙏
Checked out the crochet coverings on trees, cars etc.
Warmer today I think 15 degrees 🥶
Back home now a balmy 22 degrees and ready for an early night 😴😴
Went to Calne Bike meet yesterday, sun was out and so were about 6000 other bikes, place was packed with just about every bike you could imagine. I did stumble on the daftest bike there and one of the best, even found a katana bodied 1400. I counted about 10 or so other 1400's there as well, anyone form here?
Admin, can you remove one of the duplicate pictures, I don't know how to.
6000 bikes is impressive 👍
We would only experience that number of bikes at MotoGP or possibly WSBK @ Phillip Island.
They have an impressive website for Calne and it looks like a nice town, not far from London 🧐
I took the tractor to Whitby. It's a great little town & it was steampunk weekend so some great outfits to see too. Not that I took many pics considering I walked around for about 4 hours.
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Least you captured a couple of pints! :onya:
Quote from: KiwiCol on Monday, 29 July 2024, 07:45 PMLeast you captured a couple of pints! :onya:
Rude not too as it was over 22c & sunny.
Cold to some I know, but hot enough for me.
Nice hat 🎩 :hat:
Incredible scenery very green 👍🍺🍺🍺 I hope you had one for all your mates on here 🙏
I only had a few as riding mate.
It's my rally hat but it goes to gigs & stuff like that too.
@mickj .just watched a video of the bike meet at Calne on sat , is that your bike at 6mins,33 . Video by a bloke called Euan Bentley.
Do you have a link to the vid?
At the weekend had a run from perth(scotland) over to Applecross via fort William on friday then Applecross to ullapool on Saturday, back from ullapool to perth on Sunday
Just over 500miles for the weekend bikes behaved well (my mates gsx1400 did eat its back tyres so heading home was slower lol)
The part from fort William (over night stop at Applecross) to ullapool was 225 miles and I did on 1 tank of super E5 petrol (and the bar was flashing but not the pump so could have gotten maybe 240 miles) :cheers:
Sounds a great ride, damn good roads there.
Why not fuel up at Applecross though? last time I went there was a petrol station by the junction from the pass.
@mickj sorry no, I don't have a link to the video I just saw it on YT.
Quote from: Hooli on Tuesday, 30 July 2024, 07:27 PMSounds a great ride, damn good roads there.
Why not fuel up at Applecross though? last time I went there was a petrol station by the junction from the pass.
Didn't need fuel at Applecross was only 1 bar down by there are Fort William .
We could have stopped at several petrol stations but it did really well and we weren't going bonkers but also weren't hanging about.
I think I could have got 245miles on saturday 🤔
Quote from: seth on Wednesday, 31 July 2024, 06:14 AMQuote from: Hooli on Tuesday, 30 July 2024, 07:27 PMSounds a great ride, damn good roads there.
Why not fuel up at Applecross though? last time I went there was a petrol station by the junction from the pass.
Didn't need fuel at Applecross was only 1 bar down by there are Fort William .
We could have stopped at several petrol stations but it did really well and we weren't going bonkers but also weren't hanging about.
I think I could have got 245miles on saturday 🤔
I seem to get 200-220 before the first bar flashes these days, I must be riding too slow in my old age :lol:
Got out for my usual fang from Horowhenua to Pahiatua and return 160kms. Bloody cold and the knee was shit !
So that's it till I'm bionic (Knee replacement in under two weeks yay !!).
Quote from: Roo on Tuesday, 06 August 2024, 12:46 PMGot out for my usual fang from Horowhenua to Pahiatua and return 160kms. Bloody cold and the knee was shit !
So that's it till I'm bionic (Knee replacement in under two weeks yay !!).
Hope the Op goes well for ya Roo & you have a speedy recovery. Might be a while before you can mount the beast again though, or ride a bike . . . :happy1: :cheers: :onya:
Good Luck Roo. They say those implants feel the cold. I feel the cold without one.
Ooooer @KiwiCol that's very Benny Hill of you 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Quote from: Roo on Tuesday, 06 August 2024, 12:46 PMGot out for my usual fang from Horowhenua to Pahiatua and return 160kms. Bloody cold and the knee was shit !
So that's it till I'm bionic (Knee replacement in under two weeks yay !!).
Good luck with the op Roo
All the best Matey.
D.D.
Took the bride for a day out on the scooter. She reckons it's been nearly 18 months since we went for a decent ride. When I knew I had blood pump issues I didn't take her with me. Went to Ohope, lovely golden sand beach. White Island was having a good belch, it's an active volcano about 30kms off the coast. Great day out, sunny but cool. Nice to be out on the bike again.
We did 430kms round trip MtCotton to Woodenbong pub (new owner keen for more business from the motorcycle fraternity) highly recommended by us, via Queen Mary Falls Boonah etc.
Incredible weather great company and enhanced our pothole avoidance techniques.
Round trip from Brisbane to Warwick. Just a transport run (meeting a friend) not a proper ride on proper roads so - boring.
One way trip ought to be around 2 hours but on the way there I was delayed 40 minutes due to (the tail end of) a road closure following an accident. (was closed 2.5 hours all up) and on the way back by 30 minutes due to roadworks. :( So about 5 hours of highway miles - boring.
Went out for a leisurely ride out to Abergavenny on Saturday, temps were getting a bit low for all summer gear but I had a good ride. At the bus station I saw this. Owner did all the work apart from paint.
That's... unpleasant to my eye.
Looks like they ordered every anodised bit of crap they could find on ebay & threw it in a heap. What was it before they ruined it?
Not today but Saturday,tried to blag a ride on an Indian FTR1200 but alas no . This caught my eye though even though I can't afford. Being on tick looked tempting but as my dad would say "if you ain't got brass in pocket you can't afford it ".
Having trouble posting a photo
Got it!!!
Quote from: Hooli on Monday, 19 August 2024, 11:30 PMLooks like they ordered every anodised bit of crap they could find on ebay & threw it in a heap. What was it before they ruined it?
I think a Suzuki TL1000, maybe and S, maybe an R. Whatever, it's not to my taste.
Lot of wasted money on that TL. Not much i like about it.
Quote from: Tally on Tuesday, 20 August 2024, 02:16 AMNot today but Saturday,tried to blag a ride on an Indian FTR1200 but alas no . This caught my eye though even though I can't afford. Being on tick looked tempting but as my dad would say "if you ain't got brass in pocket you can't afford it ".
I do quite like the look of them, with a few tweaks. I see a black one about with proper knobblies & a rat look to it. Cool as & sounds great.
Yatala to Canungra for breakfast at Cafe Metz then over Beechmont to Numinbah and back via Clagiraba and the M1.
Awesome weather for end of winter 27 degrees most of the day and clear blue cloudless skies.
MtCotton to Aspley, then to The Edge Cafe @ Montville which as always is excellent.
Back home via Maleny, Stanley river road to Woodford over MtMee to Dayboro for a cooling ale on 30+ degrees. Last day of winter 🙀
A few weeks ago I put the bike into the garage and thought thats gunna be it for a while.
I was down for a knee replacement, but that hasn't happened as yet. The Surgeon cancelled the day before the Op when I saw him as I had a messy wound on my left arm ! He looked and said nah too risky for infection !!!!!!
Been pumping in the antibiotics, but it's taking a while. I see him in another week so here's hoping ?
So sprayed the chain and did tyre pressures, I'll try and get a fang in this week. Summer is coming !!!!!
Quote from: Sebastionbear on Tuesday, 20 August 2024, 01:52 PMQuote from: Hooli on Monday, 19 August 2024, 11:30 PMLooks like they ordered every anodised bit of crap they could find on ebay & threw it in a heap. What was it before they ruined it?
I think a Suzuki TL1000, maybe and S, maybe an R. Whatever, it's not to my taste.
It's an S.
Just a little trip to Buryhill, not many bikes, considered going further but weather wasn't great. Got asked if I wanted to sell the bike though :grin:
Did 620kms over the weekend with 6 other fellas. Left Tauranga in the rain heading towards Raglan.To Rangiriri for lunch. Off to Thames then Tairua, refreshment stop at the Coroglen pub before getting to Whitianga for the night. Weather improved on Sunday as we headed to Whangamata, through to Waihi for gas then off to Paeroa, turn left to Te Aroha. Along the Old Te Aroha Road then left over the Kaimai Ranges and home.
Good ride with a great bunch of guys, roads were pretty slippery on Saturday. Good meals and a bunch of laughs at Rangiriri and Whitianga. It's always nice riding on the Coromandel Peninsula. Not much traffic and good roads allowed for a more spirited pace. Home by 1.30 Sunday arvo. Happy camper !!
The bike just ticked over 100 thousand kms so perhaps it's time to check the valve clearances. She ran like a dream. Used my AirHawk cushion so ones posterior was much more comfortable.
My first decent ride since January was most enjoyable. 65 tomorrow so I've technically retired. Looking forward to a bit more time on the bike :boogie2:
View from the Whitianga motel room looking out over Mercury Bay. Whitianga estuary for breakfast.
Well done Col, sounds a great ride. Happy 65th for tomorrow mate. :cheers:
Gits, I just rode to work on wet roads.
Today just bumpy backroads up the range from home.Blackall Range pic has Glasshouse Mtns in background.Enjoyable day👍
Chittering Brook with a few mates to check out the vintage and British bikes. Brunch and coffee on every Thursday
Scotty's Garage/The Barn in Flagstone https://thebarnandscottysgarage.com.au/
Bobbie and I split the BIG breakfast it was enough for both of us. The damper inspired scones with Ginger marmalade were tdf. 😋
From Goodna we headed out via Gatton. Then rode the Devils Spine (Silver Pinch Rd.) Murphys Creek, Hampton, Esk and home roughly 500ks. Quite cool weather most of the day around 20 deg C.
Looks a BIG breaky alright. :drool:
Nah! Medium at best :whistling: :whistling:
I've hardly ridden bikes anywhere for a while, just been bored of them. But Friday I was dragged out by Nic, she's the lass using my Hornet so off we went on the back roads to Seaways cafe. Part way there I realised we'd arrive as it shut so stopped at a pub I've kept going past & saying I should drop in, it's good so I'll go back again.
A nice pint of Theakson's Old Peculiar in a proper glass tankard was consumed too,
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Blue sky day Hooli :onya:
We rode into West End yesterday not a big ride however parking is at a premium so bike parking much easier. We had another Greek/Cypriot feast at Kafenio highly recommend and you must have Souvla (double thickness lamb chops slow cooked over charcoal) we preordered on Thursday to reserve 4 portions (2 chops each). There were 4 of us we all had Souvla and I ordered seafood mezze platter to share.
Anyone in Brisbane and surrounds who like this style of food in an authentic style and atmosphere should definitely visit 🥇🥇🥇
Got chopped n channeled Tuesday morning. Out and home Wednesday 11am !!!
Model patient,told to back off the exercises a bit !!!!! hahahaha
Hope to be riding in a month and on the rideon even sooner ???
Sorry ,new right knee Op ....... should have mentioned that. xxxxxx
Glad to hear it all went so smoothly mate! Go easy on it initially as they've said, give it a chance to heal then you can hopefully have some more years on the bike, (& yer mower! :happy1: )
:cheers:
Well done Roo.Rest up, then back into it👍
Quote from: Roo on Thursday, 03 October 2024, 08:42 AMModel patient,told to back
My not yet fully awake brain made "Model patient,told to be back. We would really like to do some more cutting. Always a pleasure to have you here". :laugh:
I rode to the pub with two of my bikes last night...
Met up with Nic who's fostering my Hornet to ride to the bike night/pub quiz. Our team won the quiz too, so was a good night all in all.
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Haven't used the 14 much recently. Spent a bit of time in hospital and when I do ride I'm using the three 1340's most days. The 14 needs a few jobs doing, but I'll keep it for now, it's in the to-do queue with a few others. I do give it a wipe over and start it up so it's not completely abandoned.
Good luck with your recovery Roo :onya:
On Saturday I went to Auckland for the NZ Motorcycle Show. About a two and a half hour ride from Tauranga. Good turnout and some great bikes.
Great to see some old faces from my early motorcycling days. Plenty of blingy Harleys in there. Some guys are pretty clever when it comes to customizing, some of the painting was amazing. However as i have always said "if it don't go, chrome it !!"
I left the show in torrential rain for a rather damp ride home. My wet weather gear is excellent but my hands and feet were soaked within five minutes. The trip over the Kaimai's was unpleasant. Pitch black with a fogged visor and glasses. I tucked in behind a car with good bright tail lights.
The bride had the fire roaring when I got home.... very nice.
For me the star of any motorcycle show.
Hadn't been out for weeks so whatever the forecast we went 40 miles to Greggs for a bacon roll- country roads there and back - farmers busy getting in produce so roads were muddy but enjoyed the ride :)
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Nice to see a clean bike for a change :lol:
Quote from: Hooli on Wednesday, 09 October 2024, 04:18 AMNice to see a clean bike for a change :lol:
guess I shouldn't have shortened the rear fender :bugga:
Quote from: Notty on Wednesday, 09 October 2024, 06:10 AMQuote from: Hooli on Wednesday, 09 October 2024, 04:18 AMNice to see a clean bike for a change :lol:
guess I shouldn't have shortened the rear fender :bugga:
I wish the previous owner on my 14 hadn't for the same reason.
Sunday took the Bavarian Mistress for a 300km loop with BMWMCCWA to Vic Park, then to Gidgegannup via a roundabout looping run through Kalamunda, St Helena, Sawyers Valley, Mundaring Weir, coffee at Gidgegannup then home.
Felt bad for the 1400, so took her to work on Monday and home the long way. Runs sweet since replacing stps and tps.
Quote from: Notty on Wednesday, 09 October 2024, 03:31 AMHadn't been out for weeks so whatever the forecast we went 40 miles to Greggs for a bacon roll- country roads there and back - farmers busy getting in produce so roads were muddy but enjoyed the ride :)
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@Notty is your number plate personalised ?
Or you've applied a sticker ?
Maybe consider a fender extender 🤔🥸
My BMW has an adjustable rear one.
Quote from: GSXKING on Wednesday, 09 October 2024, 02:45 PMQuote from: Notty on Wednesday, 09 October 2024, 03:31 AMHadn't been out for weeks so whatever the forecast we went 40 miles to Greggs for a bacon roll- country roads there and back - farmers busy getting in produce so roads were muddy but enjoyed the ride :)
@Notty is your number plate personalised ?
Or you've applied a sticker ?
custom ordered on Ebay - police around here only interested in size :)
@gsking
Notty.Think here not allowed to change/add anything on number plate.Thats because the mongrels would miss out on revenue from personalised plate. Ive no need to so not caring.
Technically we can't add Welsh flags, or custom words at the base either. But if it's the right size & font then no-one seems to care as the cameras will pick it up for their donut fund.
After tank off, filter clean few days back, tank of BP98, up the mountain to test, tiny little bumpy roads, gotta be careful, not really 14 roads but i had fun.Revving so nicely, just open throttle and a rocket emerges👍
a 160 mile (260kms) round trip to Leominster for a coffee, scenic country routes again. bike dirtier than last weekend .
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Haha I know a biker lass in Leominster, she went to Wales for lunch. Keeps the numbers right each side of the border :happy1:
I've had the B-King 17 years this week.
Still can't get my head around that I bought it home 17 years ago!!
Couldn't leave it sat in the shed on its birthday, so...
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It's still a heap of fun. I couldn't have one as an only bike, but it's a toy than never fails to make me smile and a bike I've never found a replacement for.
Day 5 of my long-long weekend. Took the Gen-2 out.
It's still a bit of a mystery, the 08-12 early Gen-2's do have the best power to weight, bigger better motor than the Gen-1 and a fraction lighter than the later Gen-2 / 3 (no ABS), but this one gos surprisingly well.
I've owned several Busa's and ridden a lot more, but this one go's better than it should. Everything is stock except a pair of cans and a dyno mapped PC111, no sign of any other mods or being flashed, but it pulls noticeably harder than my Gen-1, Gen-3 or B-King. It's been loved, but ridden spiritedly, and only has 35k on the clock but still feels suspiciously fast. I've even checked the gearing!
Not complaining.
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Good lookin Busa that one.Jacarandas out here also. My 14 with Yoshi can has more grunt than with stock can or either of two others i have.Must be something in their design.
Quote from: grog on Tuesday, 29 October 2024, 02:09 PMGood lookin Busa that one.Jacarandas out here also. My 14 with Yoshi can has more grunt than with stock can or either of two others i have.Must be something in their design.
Thanks. It's still similar in some ways to a 14, bigger motor than the early Busa's, but no ABS or modern tech like the later ones.
I do have plans for it but I'm in no hurry. I was thinking about buying some Gen-2 / B-King cams for my Gen-3, but...... if I buy this Gen-2 some Yoshi cams I can swap its factory cams into the Gen-3 (Gen-3 got softer cams, shorter airbox stacks, triple cats etc to get Euro-5) ............ so I get two bikes with better cams for the price of one.
Jacaranas do look good. Goombungee shuts the town down Saturday for their "Jacaranda Festival", roads closed, food, music etc.
Nice pics Tony. Our Jacarandas have only just lost their leaves. Last thing in the garden to do so. They do look spectacular when in bloom.
Col, when do they flower your area?
Just down to ceasefire cafe Yapton with a friend on a 1985 yamaha xt600 super tenere and then up to whiteways arundelfor a hot chocolate.
Two observations, ear plugs, soooo much nicer to ride with, pairs delete, wow much nicer bike to ride, much smoother .
a wee 3 hour journey run up over the cairngorm mountains for chips Perth to Braemar up and down the A93 (one of the best short runs in middle Scotland)
It was even dry and sunny most now the day (the futher north the better the weather got) and it was 10-15°c too.
:cheers:
Nice day out on the 14 with six other bikes around North Wales, a mix of A & B roads (almost green laning at one point) from a steady pace to some fairly spirited riding, a great day and the good old 14 performed faultlessly. Oh and the weather was great, dry all day around 12-15 degrees for most of it but dropped cold after 3pm, some dirty roads here and there so bessie is ready for a bath again
Quote from: seth on Sunday, 03 November 2024, 06:07 AMa wee 3 hour journey run up over the cairngorm mountains for chips Perth to Braemar up and down the A93 (one of the best short runs in middle Scotland)
It was even dry and sunny most now the day (the futher north the better the weather got) and it was 10-15°c too.
:cheers:
Quote from: seth on Sunday, 03 November 2024, 06:07 AMa wee 3 hour journey run up over the cairngorm mountains for chips Perth to Braemar up and down the A93 (one of the best short runs in middle Scotland)
It was even dry and sunny most now the day (the futher north the better the weather got) and it was 10-15°c too.
:cheers:
Is that the roller coaster run up or down the Spittle of Glenshee? if so I love that road both on bikes or in cars.
Quote from: Hooli on Monday, 04 November 2024, 03:53 AMQuote from: seth on Sunday, 03 November 2024, 06:07 AMa wee 3 hour journey run up over the cairngorm mountains for chips Perth to Braemar up and down the A93 (one of the best short runs in middle Scotland)
It was even dry and sunny most now the day (the futher north the better the weather got) and it was 10-15°c too.
:cheers:
Quote from: seth on Sunday, 03 November 2024, 06:07 AMa wee 3 hour journey run up over the cairngorm mountains for chips Perth to Braemar up and down the A93 (one of the best short runs in middle Scotland)
It was even dry and sunny most now the day (the futher north the better the weather got) and it was 10-15°c too.
:cheers:
Is that the roller coaster run up or down the Spittle of Glenshee? if so I love that road both on bikes or in cars.
Yes that's the exact road is so much fun 😁
Went out on my Ducati yesterday for a ride into Wales for a coffee and back. not many other bikes out as it was a cold dull day but I enjoyed it. Hoping to get news this week on my 14.
Ride most weekends, Sunday was a 400k round trip for a pub meal .. ride was good pub meal wasn't. Chips cold & burger fell apart 🥴
Ooops wrong map to my previous post. Can't see a way to edit.
As an FYI;
After about 20 - 30 minutes (I think from memory) you can't edit your posts, only Admin can get into them.
Mick, sack that pub, money back i hope.
Quote from: grog on Thursday, 07 November 2024, 05:16 PMMick, sack that pub, money back i hope.
No, lesson learnt though.
Quote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 07 November 2024, 12:48 PMOoops wrong map to my previous post. Can't see a way to edit.
that's a great run Mick, I've done similar but in reverse, then up the old coast road thru mandurah then home. I'm up for catching up on the next run, my K3 needs a run
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Friday, 08 November 2024, 09:37 AMQuote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 07 November 2024, 12:48 PMOoops wrong map to my previous post. Can't see a way to edit.
that's a great run Mick, I've done similar but in reverse, then up the old coast road thru mandurah then home. I'm up for catching up on the next run, my K3 needs a run
I ride with the Warnbro Wanderers Ulysses Group, we meet up for coffee at Pengo's Cafe every Wednesday at 9am 👍
Just a wee 150mile run today from Perth over to Gilmerton (on the Crieff road) then up the sma glen (yes it's spelt like that) to Aberfeldy then over to Kenmore.
Stopped off at the new Scottish crannog centre (the old one burnt down a couple of years ago and was the other side of the loch) had a toastie,very good tomato soup and a coffee.
Then the North side of lochtay to Killin to see the falls of drochart,
Then back down to Lochearnhead and back along the A85 to perth .
All but the first 20miles were dry (the first bit was damp but no rain) and it was actually quite warm.
A good day out for ne and my mate on our gsx1400's.
Have they built their new Crannog yet? I went a few weeks before the last one burnt down (no related your honour) and even then they were talking about the land on the other side of the loch & how they'd build more there.
I read that after the fire they've deliberately left the old one to collapse & rot away naturally. Being as a lot of ones found appear to have burnt down they are using it as an exercise to understand the decay & collapse after such an event.
Quote from: MickyJB on Friday, 08 November 2024, 10:09 AMQuote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Friday, 08 November 2024, 09:37 AMQuote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 07 November 2024, 12:48 PMOoops wrong map to my previous post. Can't see a way to edit.
that's a great run Mick, I've done similar but in reverse, then up the old coast road thru mandurah then home. I'm up for catching up on the next run, my K3 needs a run
I ride with the Warnbro Wanderers Ulysses Group, we meet up for coffee at Pengo's Cafe every Wednesday at 9am 👍
sounds great, just don't have luxury of free time during the week Mick, still working...
I think I can vaguely remember what werk was . . . :whistling: :stir: can do without it! eh Grog!
Sure can, ive adapted well in a few months👍
Thanks....I think...
It takes a while Eric, one hand its great, other hand means youre friggin old :facepalm:
Why does every second Tuesday take so long to come round Col ?
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Monday, 11 November 2024, 02:05 PMQuote from: MickyJB on Friday, 08 November 2024, 10:09 AMQuote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Friday, 08 November 2024, 09:37 AMQuote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 07 November 2024, 12:48 PMOoops wrong map to my previous post. Can't see a way to edit.
that's a great run Mick, I've done similar but in reverse, then up the old coast road thru mandurah then home. I'm up for catching up on the next run, my K3 needs a run
I ride with the Warnbro Wanderers Ulysses Group, we meet up for coffee at Pengo's Cafe every Wednesday at 9am 👍
sounds great, just don't have luxury of free time during the week Mick, still working...
Group rides are Saturday to a cafe and Sunday is an all day ride. Bunch of old farts like myself ...
Plenty of options then. So between work and BMW club ride on Sunday, I can basically avoid being home all week if I so choose...
Today just riding home, Road Transport Compliance setting up, they go through every tiny detail, not easy to get on with. I was last one past before they started. No baffle in Tri Oval & my mirror glass area not quite big enough wouldve cost a few bucks and time to get re checked.Chance i take as im not changing it. Anyway, my lucky day👏
Dodged a bullet there mate
Quote from: grog on Monday, 25 November 2024, 03:19 PMToday just riding home, Road Transport Compliance setting up, they go through every tiny detail, not easy to get on with. I was last one past before they started. No baffle in Tri Oval & my mirror glass area not quite big enough wouldve cost a few bucks and time to get re checked.Chance i take as im not changing it. Anyway, my lucky day👏
A while back they were being a bit of an arse and even ticketing bikes with quiet (legal db) pipes were getting tickets, I think the tickets were for not being correctly marked or not having a matching frame tag for the pipes. I spoke the Staintune and they sent me a frame tag with the new db reading and the registration stamped onto it.
This was a while back up hot spots like Mt Glorious when they were ticketing for short rear guards and rego holders etc, so not sure if they still do it.
Weather was great for a ride last Sunday though it did start to warm up in the arvo .. 34 / 36 C apparently. Morning Cafe at Pickering Brook and Lunch at the PO Cafe Jarrahdale.
Rest Day Monday and today Tuesday it was off to Jarrahdale General Store Cafe for more chit chat with a group of like minded riders. Very cruisey ride to and back which makes a change, stopped and got a few pics of my Suzi.
Last pic is one I took a while back for Google reviews.
Nice one Mick, great rides up that way. The glw and I were out on the bike on Sunday down to Mandurah, Dawesville and a quick tour of the estuary road then back up old coast road, lunch at Sharkies in Mandurah Dolphin Quay before the run home. It was warm for sure.
Another Thursday and the weather is perfect !! So it's off to Pickering Brook / Perth WA. Approximately 90 bikes today, most are vintage / British / and a mix of classic oldies.
Great day riding with Mates.
Had a great day out yesterday. Wife and I went up to Coromandel town hoping to see the Pohutukawa trees in bloom along the coast road from Thames to Coromandel. We must have been a bit early. Anyway we had a lovely lunch and got to see the Coromandel Santa Parade. The kids loved the lolly scramble !! Got home at 7pm after a 370km round trip. Excellent day.
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Lolly scramble.
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Hey Grog the Jacaranda's are in bloom now....except our one at home, were still waiting.
All over now Col.Poinciana time & Buckinghamia Celsissima, also known as Ivory Curl Tree & Roly Poly Satinash.
320isk km round trip ride around Perth districts and surrounds, ended up at Miami Bakehouse, had a very decent hone made steak, bacon and cheese pie abd great coffee. Was a bit warm, 34deg on the way home. Will be getting a new summer mesh jacket and gloves this week, cutrent gloves are tearing at the thumb and forefinger, jacket is still great, just too hot for a summer ride (full leather).
Took the Gen-2 out and tried to do the exact route I did yesterday on the Gen-3. A close as I could back to back comparison.
Although they share the same frame and swingarm, are both 1340's, both wearing new S22's there's quite a few differences and they certainly aren't the same.
(https://i.ibb.co/5GwyX9n/IMG-0762.jpg) (https://ibb.co/k5vfVy9)
(https://i.ibb.co/MRNvkh8/IMG-0765.jpg) (https://ibb.co/YtjCBWD)
First longish ride on the bike today, 310kms from the Manawatū to Tokoroa. 27C, sunny but pretty windy. Snow on Mt Ruapehu, but Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro were clear.
Spending tomorrow in Tokoroa, then home on Sunday...anticipate some delay, as 16,000 competitors and supporters are in Taupo for an Ironman World Championship event.
The bike was great, but you'll not be surprised by that, and the wind blast definitely helps keep the speed down.
Are they actual places or Kiwi swear words😂 Well done Mate, you wont get sick of it, maybe the wind blast but thats how a naked bike is. :cheers:
Nah, He's making those words up. :rofl2: Never heard of those places before, are they places or machinery? Bit like a lot of your Aussie place names Grog, look real different unless ya grow up with them. I mite of dun meselph. :happy1: :onya:
Quote from: KiwiCol on Friday, 13 December 2024, 05:18 PMBit like a lot of your Aussie place names
(https://i.ibb.co/zsGgfhz/IMG-4841.jpg) (https://ibb.co/y0WCsnr)
(https://i.ibb.co/5XZs9mZ/IMG-0010.png) (https://ibb.co/35KSs2K)
Quote from: Pommeroy on Friday, 13 December 2024, 03:22 PMFirst longish ride on the bike today, 310kms from the Manawatū to Tokoroa. 27C, sunny but pretty windy. Snow on Mt Ruapehu, but Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro were clear.
Spending tomorrow in Tokoroa, then home on Sunday...anticipate some delay, as 16,000 competitors and supporters are in Taupo for an Ironman World Championship event.
The bike was great, but you'll not be surprised by that, and the wind blast definitely helps keep the speed down.
The wind blast also takes a fair bit of weight off your wrists so also making the ride more comfy. I'm finding when I get off my RT on to the GSX I feel like I'm riding my old GSXR in the leaning forward stakes.
Home to Bindoon Bakehouse heading up on the Great Northern Highway, then onto Moora, cutting across at Coorow through to Warradarge, Green head then Jurien Bay. Bit of a lunch stop then hone via the Indian ocean drive hugging the coast,going through Cervantes, Lancelin,Wedge island and then through the city and back home. 730km ride round trip.
Screenshot_20241215_081357_Maps.jpg
Rode back to the Manawatū today from Tokoroa, in stunning sunshine. Bonus was being able to avoid the part of Taupo in which the triathlon was taking place, so no delays at all!!! :boogie:
A good day to be alive :)
Good on ya mate! :onya: :clapping:
Big ride Eric, Pommeroy a great get to know bonding😂No chance here, if it stops raining it just buckets down.
Hey Pommeroy any chance you're going to the Whanganui Boxing Day Street Races.
Mapleton this morning and breakfast @ The Edge Cafe
No flooding on the back roads but lots of debris close to the road in some areas. Did Peachester range at pace (Bobbie stayed home today) then Bald Knob, amazing views.
Service and food there is exemplary 🏆
This arvo xmas eve, i thought light traffic. I was right. Only did a little 80k loop but is great fun. Steep ups and downs, back roads with 20 to 80 kph signed corners, some bumpy and off camber,need to be watchful.Lots of gear changing, lots of braking, lots of throttle turning. Great ride, sure makes the old arms/hands earn their keep👍Bike thanked me, it loved it, no fat old girl at all.😂😂
Hi Kiwifruit, sorry only just seen your post re the Whanganui Boxing Day street races...I usually go, but unfortunately I can't make it this year. In the UK I rarely missed the Boxing Day fun at Mallory Park, where I'd consume my body weight in baked spuds and hot chocolate.
Quote from: Pommeroy on Tuesday, 24 December 2024, 06:33 PMIn the UK I rarely missed the Boxing Day fun at Mallory Park,
The Plumb Pudding Races.
I wonder if anyone runs in both the car and the bike races ?
I'd be surprised if there wasn't someone who does. Made me smile that the grid order for race 1 is based on how quickly event applications are received, and race 2 is a reverse grid based on race 1 results...makes for entertaining racing!! :clapping:
Left Tauranga headed for Cambridge to see Dad. Then on through Otorohanga to Te Kuiti, Stopped for gas and coffee in Taumarunui parked next to a BMW K1600GT... Big bike. From there to National Park then over the Parapara's to Whanganui. Hey Col someone must have stolen the H, Mt Ruapehu is in the background. 400kms, great weather good roads no road works...... happy deal. Look forward to the racing tomorrow.
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Well done Col👍Dont understand the H missing?? Nice can on your bike😂
Wanganui had its spelling changed to Whanganui, Maori spelling.
As you know grog that carbon fibre look is just vinyl wrap. It's been on there years. Amazed me how long it's lasting.
It's raining this morning so that will make the days racing interesting. The mate I'm with is producing the live stream footage. Has five tv cameras, a bunch of on boards and a high speed drone so should get some great coverage. That is if water don't get where electronics don't like it.
Remember we used to watch Wanganui races live on TV? That must have been the 80's ?
Haven't been there myself since 2000 ! fack 24 yrs ???!!!!!!!!!
Did my first road race there in 1971 ....... in the rain !!!!!
This was 1978 , the pic made the front page of the Wanganui Chronicle hahaha File too big to post the full pic.
I looked up the livestream it's $60 for the day through Facebook I'm thinking 🤔
Enjoy the races Col and we'll await your report here ✅
Quote from: Roo on Thursday, 26 December 2024, 04:38 AMRemember we used to watch Wanganui races live on TV? That must have been the 80's ?
Haven't been there myself since 2000 ! fack 24 yrs ???!!!!!!!!!
Did my first road race there in 1971 ....... in the rain !!!!!
This was 1978 , the pic made the front page of the Wanganui Chronicle hahaha File too big to post the full pic.
From my scrapbook and reduced in size, took forever lol .
J woodley left and yours truly to the right...
Was talking with the guys last night and they were of the opinion that $60 was a bit steep. Mate supplied the footage to be streamed not the streaming itself. He is contracted to make three one hour shows for TV3. You guys know more about how this works but once it's aired it should be available on the net from 'Three Now'.
The practice was wet with constant rain changing to fine by lunchtime for the racing proper. Was amazed at their speed in the rain. Davy Todd rode 4 classes. I think Peter Hickman rode 2. Those guys are just fast. They battled with the locals for a couple of wins but a local fella Mich Rees won the feature Robert Holden Memorial race with Todd second and Mitch Rees' father Tony taking 3rd. Hicky ran wide or was run wide and finished 4th or 5th. Good racing in F3 with some youngsters battling hard. Another friend had his MV run 2nd all day in F2. Was a good day, perhaps the crowd was a bit light due to the early rain but I believe the organizers were happy with the turnout.
Lots of spectators, like myself rode down.
Plenty of grey hair under the lids of the riders on some very nice sports bikes. Had a good ride home, a bit wet through National Park but rode the latter half of the trip in warm and sunny conditions. Heavy traffic into Tauranga. Pleased I was on a bike.
Fabulous couple of days away catching up and reminiscing with old mates. Getting away on the bike is always a good time. The camaraderie between the motorcyclists you meet on the road, at the gas stations or staying in the motels is quiet unique. As always it's nice to get home..... safe but tired.
Richie Dibben leads Davy Todd in one of the Supermotard races.
I do apologize for my lack of photography skills.
Another of your new cousins Col.
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Whanganui Cemetery Circuit at 7am
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Interesting reading the headstones some date back into the early to mid 1800's. Early by NZ standards.
The green ones are more recent
Might be mid winter up here in the frozen north (of Scotland) but me and a mate (not on his 14 but just a Honda)
Had a wee ride up to the local ski centre (the lecht on the A93) it was even fairly warm 9°c and mostly dry roads a great day out 🫣😎
Cafe Metz in Canungra via Mt. Tamborine and the Goat track.
First class café with great coffee, excellent food and service at a very reasonable price 🥇🥇🥇
Hottest day of the year so far (it is summer here DOH) very warm on the bike. Home now in the a/c having a bourbon to rehydrate :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: any excuse I reckon 🙀🙀🙀
:hat:
Which Bourbon? JD or Jimmy Black? I like both, Jimmy Black would be a preference if I had to choose one, got a 1L sitting in the booze cabinet as we speak. :cheers:
Froudy liked a Bourbon, haven't seen him for a while now, probably cos he sold his bike.
Wild Turkey 101 special batch oak barrel, got it duty free on return to Brisbane 🙏
Quote from: GSXKING on Saturday, 28 December 2024, 01:02 PM:hat:
36!! That's just being greedy! You're taking all the global warming for yourselves, what about sharing a few degrees with Seth . . . :happy1:
Quote from: GSXKING on Saturday, 28 December 2024, 01:05 PMWild Turkey 101 special batch oak barrel, got it duty free on return to Brisbane 🙏
I've had that one before too, about 50% alcohol from memory, it catches ya out as it's so easy to get through.
They were wrong about 36 degrees. Now 38 on my verandah, too hot for a ride. Also inside in a/c, 4 o'clock is Landsborough Lager time, made right here by me👍
Quote from: grog on Saturday, 28 December 2024, 01:36 PMThey were wrong about 36 degrees. Now 38 on my verandah, too hot for a ride. Also inside in a/c, 4 o'clock is Landsborough Lager time, made right here by me👍
Another warm one here.
I went to do my 5k / 3.1 mile timed Park Run with the local group this morning. Got about 2/3rd of the way and started to struggle, more importantly my dog wasn't doing great, so we backed off and cruised the last bit. Slow time but for the best.
Last time I looked it was 36.5 degrees C here.
(https://i.ibb.co/WBJnHWX/IMG-0966.jpg) (https://imgbb.com/)
Careful ya don't run yourself into the ground Tony.
After days of rain, and a run of further wet days from tomorrow, I rode this morning from Palmy to Mangaweka via the Manawatū Scenic Route. Had breakfast at a nice caff, then rode home via Vinegar Hill.
A morning of twisties, and having returned the bike to its stock suspension settings to get a baseline, it was less than enjoyable...have set it now to Kev's settings in the MCN article - I'm working from tomorrow until Thurs, so no testing before then.
Spent the arvo gardening (well, loading then unloading a trailer of soil, then checking my bees), followed by a cold one (Drop Bear alcohol free stout...can't tolerate alcohol following a big concussion 18 months ago).
Good café Pommeroy, stopped there a couple of times this year. Love the Macrocapa timber smell there.
Got soaked this afternoon on the commute home from work ⛈️
Looks slightly moist there.
Should have stayed at work :imrgreen:
BTW, very nice pic of your face.
Thanks @Andre :cheers:
The weather literally came out of nowhere.
I was on one side of our shed, warmed bike up, turned the corner and BAM. I hightailed it to the underpass and put my new Nelson Rigg two piece rain suit on which works very well. However the weather cleared quickly and it soon felt like riding in a sauna 🥵🥵🥵
Got home toweled off and sunk a few cold beers 🍻
Quote from: GSXKING on Saturday, 04 January 2025, 04:25 PMThanks @Andre :cheers:
The weather literally came out of nowhere.
I was on one side of our shed, warmed bike up, turned the corner and BAM. I hightailed it to the underpass and put my new Nelson Rigg two piece rain suit on which works very well. However the weather cleared quickly and it soon felt like riding in a sauna 🥵🥵🥵
Got home toweled off and sunk a few cold beers 🍻
you are so brave Chris :rofl2:
Thanks @Notty coming from you I'll take that as a compliment 🙏🙏
Went to the monthly breakfast with our local Coffee and Cars Club. A few are into bikes but the majority bring cars and trucks. Really nice bunch, very open minded to any vehicle. A couple of us have Busa's, there everything from a Mini to a Ferrari, regular old Aussie and Yank cars etc.
(https://i.ibb.co/1JXdmKt/IMG-1064.jpg) (https://ibb.co/gFWPRwL)
Managed a pretty lazy 220km shakedown run for the 1400 with the wife on her Scrambler. The return leg was a little more spirited after nothing fell off on the way there.
IMG_3412.jpeg
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 05 January 2025, 12:48 PMManaged a pretty lazy 220km shakedown run for the 1400 with the wife on her Scrambler. The return leg was a little more spirited after nothing fell off on the way there.
IMG_3412.jpeg
I almost went there for breakfast yesterday.
It's a regular spot for me.
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Sunday, 05 January 2025, 02:50 PMI almost went there for breakfast yesterday.
It's a regular spot for me.
We rolled into town a bit before 8. Quietest I've seen it in some time
Glad all good Mate. Were certainly lucky to have all those unreal tracks out that way, so many choices.Even better retired, weekdays only.😀
Just a 140k local today. Raiding ATM as getting tree cut down Wednesday. You think bike parts are expensive, tree removal is just mind blowing cost.They work tough, do a great job, very dangerous,leave bugger all mess.Cash is very efficient for them and me.
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 05 January 2025, 03:48 PMQuote from: Tony Nitrous on Sunday, 05 January 2025, 02:50 PMI almost went there for breakfast yesterday.
It's a regular spot for me.
We rolled into town a bit before 8. Quietest I've seen it in some time
I normally ride in via Yarraman and do the Cooyar Range, or down from Crows Nest now it's bitumen all the way.
I do like the twistys climbing up from Moore on the Kilcoy / Esk side but I'm a bit paranoid as we've had cops there a couple of times.
It was my regular breakfast run after Garry closed McCoys but there's a nice little cafe in Hayden I've started using too, along with the floating Cafe at Grantham.
Quote from: grog on Sunday, 05 January 2025, 05:55 PMJust a 140k local today. Raiding ATM as getting tree cut down Wednesday. You think bike parts are expensive, tree removal is just mind blowing cost.They work tough, do a great job, very dangerous,leave bugger all mess.Cash is very efficient for them and me.
Eff the efficiency. I'll go for the fun. Had lots of fun cutting down (from the top) a huge cherry tree (a crime) for a neighbor. His mom (a friend) asked me as she feared (that is what moms do) for his safety. I stopped at the roots. He had them taken out in no time by professionals with some impressive equipment. Cost him 300€. Other neighbor's kids are professional landscapers. They charge 90€ an hour (that is cheap compared to 120-140€/hour a bike shop charges for their services). I did it for free. That is what good neighbors and friends do. The kid should have taken the root out himself. Would have been good conditioning for his mind and body.
Looking forward to cut a plum tree (it's dead) in my garden this year. This time I'll keep some of the wood for my new hobby. Wish I had done this with the cherry.
I love trees. I love putting the axe (yes axe, damn the chain saws) to a tree. Chopped down a grove of almond trees (on my sister finca in Spain). Was sad when no more left to cut down. Made good firewood (sawed by hand of course). Today I would save some for the hobby.
After all you said Andre, tree gone is all i care about, multiple chainsaws, mulched and gone. 👍
Todays run was out to Fox River market & back. Then some maintenance on the GSX's.
I can't update this thread with any destination, interesting or otherwise as I woke up to 3" of snow on the floor. Due more tonight, but it's raining now & due to rain tomorrow so I'm sure it won't last long.
Snow must be on special around the planet at present, had snow on the Desert Road yesterday. (Central North Island)
Not common for this time of year.
I like cutting trees down too, we have chainsaw and a chipper. Anything that won't fit in the chipper is used for firewood. I find it quite therapeutic.
I used to use a chainsaw & chop saw for getting logs to length & then spilt them all by hand with an axe for the log burners at my old place. I enjoyed it too, a very satisfying thing to do.
As for all the snow, it's actually imaginary as Al Gore told us we'd never see it this century...
Quote from: grog on Sunday, 05 January 2025, 08:44 PMAfter all you said Andre, tree gone is all i care about, multiple chainsaws, mulched and gone. 👍
Didn't expect any different. :cheers:
Make that into a mobile all terrain AI-controlled unit. Maybe someone is working on it or has one already. Then order its service via smart phone (or the implants in your head). It will come to your property (of course checking your extensive online profile first to ensure all is legit) and certainly will do a perfect job. :coffeescreen:
This old fool is in the process of ordering another axe.
Not totally technology averse though as I am putting a CNC-Router together. lol
A lovely Sunday ride with my local Ulyssess group, Suzi went superbly, the new brake pads make a huge difference in braking.
Due to the incessant rain we've had in the past two weeks, I've hardly gotten out on the bike. Hence this firewood and chainsaw related post to add to those above...
I have four chainsaws...a big one (79cc), a medium one, a battery powered arborist one, and a battery powered one on an extending pole (it's fabulous) - we have a lot of trees at our place!! Like Kiwifruit, we have a chipper and if it can't go through that, it ends up as firewood.
I still do some splitting by hand, as it's fun and good for my back, but due to the amount of wood we knew we'd get from our place we bought a petrol splitter four years ago...it's paid for itself with the service it's given us and mates.
If you, like me, really like firewood, I highly recommend the following book by Lars Matting - "Norwegian Wood - Chopping, Stacking and Drying Wood the Scandinavian Way". It's a great read, with heaps of practical tips.
Quote from: MickyJB on Monday, 06 January 2025, 10:46 AMA lovely Sunday ride with my local Ulyssess group, Suzi went superbly, the new brake pads make a huge difference in braking.
What were the pads you put in? EBC HH? I just put a set of those onto the Blue n she sure stops quicker, well, it feels like it does anyway.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Monday, 06 January 2025, 02:24 PMQuote from: MickyJB on Monday, 06 January 2025, 10:46 AMA lovely Sunday ride with my local Ulyssess group, Suzi went superbly, the new brake pads make a huge difference in braking.
What were the pads you put in? EBC HH? I just put a set of those onto the Blue n she sure stops quicker, well, it feels like it does anyway.
Yes on the front and Ferodo HH on the rear.
Funny the best brake pads I've got are genuine original ones. A mate gave them to me almost new after swapping them for EBC, so rude not to use them.
I don't like EBC, they rattle & crap in the wet in my experience. Oddly they worked great in the Sprint I had though.
Ferodo front and rear from a donor/sponsor 😎 the grip really firmly without any harshness.
I also have aftermarket petal discs from S3 Performance and Hel braided lines in race style i.e. one line to each front calliper.
No complaints wet or dry.
Quote from: Hooli on Monday, 06 January 2025, 07:24 PMFunny the best brake pads I've got are genuine original ones. A mate gave them to me almost new after swapping them for EBC, so rude not to use them.
I don't like EBC, they rattle & crap in the wet in my experience. Oddly they worked great in the Sprint I had though.
Riding in the wet would be rare for me, if it rains during a ride fair enough but I wouldn't bother setting out in the rain.
Years ago everyone raved how good EBC were. I bought for both ends.Worst ive come across. Threw both lots in the bin. Rear pads wrecked rotor. Think on bike maybe 200k f&r. New rear rotor, DB pads, calipers ovehauled, as good as it gets. Dont understand how mine were terrible and you blokeslove them😵�💫
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 05 January 2025, 12:48 PMManaged a pretty lazy 220km shakedown run for the 1400 with the wife on her Scrambler. The return leg was a little more spirited after nothing fell off on the way there.
IMG_3412.jpeg
love how good the 1402 looks compared to a bike 20 years younger. Suzuki really got their design right in 2001 for this bike. Just love 'em.
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Monday, 06 January 2025, 11:10 PMlove how good the 1402 looks compared to a bike 20 years younger. Suzuki really got their design right in 2001 for this bike. Just love 'em.
If the assumption that women like pretty things were correct, the wifey would ride the 14!
Those Scramblers are the only decent looking Duke too. Everything else they've ever made is gopping & normally sounds like it's broken. Must have been an outside designer that did them.
Hooli had to google gopping, never heard it before, learn something everyday👍. Again i disagree but thats life😎
Took the R3GT out as far as Seddonville today, just too many caravans & campers on the road to enjoy the rest of the road to Karamea.
Wpt to Seddonville.JPG
Think that Rocket will become favourite, 14s will fade away, just my thoughts, i sometimes think time for a change.
The 14 has waaaay better luggage capacity than the R3GT & goes further on a tank of fuel. (cos it holds more, the rocket is actually more economical for the same speed - NZ highway speed 104k's on the speedo)
Having said that, I'm tinkering with the idea of some longer distance trips on the R3. I've done many long rides on the 14's & yes they handle that beautifully, I'd have to be minimalist with clothes, no taking the laptop like I usually do.
I fixed the front brakes on it yesterday & did those daytime running lights on it today, so it's still getting attention, but not much road time TBH. Raining tomorrow, so neither will be going out, unless it clears, then ok, I'll take the Blue out for a play. :onya:
Quote from: Andre on Tuesday, 07 January 2025, 01:02 AMIf the assumption that women like pretty things were correct, the wifey would ride the 14!
Not a chance! She does have her own Suzuki though - a fully kitted out DR650 adv bike. High comp piston, big valve head, pumper carb, suspension upgrades both ends etc.
I may need to stop getting carried away with bike fiddling...
Quote from: Hooli on Tuesday, 07 January 2025, 01:12 AMThose Scramblers are the only decent looking Duke too. Everything else they've ever made is gopping & normally sounds like it's broken. Must have been an outside designer that did them.
It's a fun little bike to ride for sure and does make a nice noise with the Akro system on it. The suspension was quite poor out of the box but with that sorted it's a different bike.
There are many Ducati's I find more attractive than this but she likes it and that's all that matters.
Yesterday it was the Blue's turn for a local circuit, it was a warm sunny day at home, so it's a go. Set off & began to head out of town, noticed some heavy grey clouds about the hills, hope I don't get rained on I was thinking, but the sun was on my back & a warm breeze, so all good.
I get the Greymouth turn off & begin heading south, the grey clouds have moved a bit, might get a few spits. I ride on & cars are approaching with wipers on, there's the odd spot hitting my visor but nothing of consequence. Little bit further & it's raining proper now, quite hard in fact. I'm getting wet real fast. I keep on, hoping to ride out of it, nope, aint gonna be that way.
Ahead I can see what looks like heavy mist, wasn't mist, it was an absolute down pour with hail in the mix as well. I carry on for only about a minute or so in this down pour. But I'm now properly soaked right through to my underwear and socks, yep the water was running down the inside of my boots. It was running off the helmet down my neck & onto my back. It was so heavy I could barely see & slowed right down. It also managed to get inside the helmet as well. It was like a bloody fire hose was on me.
Bugger this, so I took the only side road avail, which thankfully took me away from the wet. 2 minutes later I was back in sun shine! Rode back home via the Cape route, sun still out when I got back home, although the grey cloud was approaching. Strip everything off & put on some dry clothes. All my riding gear is spread out around the place to air & dry out.
Just then a mate who's over visiting from Christchurch txt & said he was at the bar, so that was me sorted for the rest of the afternoon.
The Blue didn't get much of a run, but it did get a wash! The front brakes are now the best I've ever felt them with 'overhauled' discs and new HH pads.
Sounds like one of those character building rides Col. Lucky you were on your Blue Beast :hat: it's certainly a test of your ability. No traction control or ABS, fairdinkum seat of the pant's riding 😳
Were you wearing wet weather gear ? Did you take it with you ?
My mantra is carry it with you and it won't rain in most cases.
I don't mind riding home in the wet as you're heading to a warm shower anyway.
No wet weather gear, no I didn't take it with me, (my wet weather gear suit has shrunk from lack of use!)
Fecken strange thing is I took the R3GT out for a wee spin this avo and it bloody started to rain again! Talk about bloody bad luck!
More days to come, so will get there eventually.
483k Suzi went superbly though I'd admit it's not the ideal longer distance ride for me being a naked.
Was that one tank of fuel or two ?
Looks like a nice outing ✅
Is there any elevation changes or all relatively flat in that region ?
Pics of your bike at the stops perhaps 🤔
Just an hour each way for me today with a walk around Tenbury Wells in the middle.
This was the ride that got aborted due to flooding late last year. It was a dry bright day today, but the roads were damp and dirty as you will see from the state of the GSX after such a short run.
Still, the sun stayed out for my photos and with the thermometer nudging double digits these days can't be missed at this time of year in the UK.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/rynglieder/albums/72177720323208169/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/rynglieder/albums/72177720323208169/)
Really enjoyed it though, I think it had been a month since I last braved a ride out.
123K / 76 miles round trip to get my morning coffee.
30 degrees C on the way out, 33 C on the way home.
(https://i.ibb.co/Ytb96dc/IMG-1173.jpg) (https://ibb.co/khMnpD4)
Quote from: GSXKING on Tuesday, 14 January 2025, 06:24 PMWas that one tank of fuel or two ?
Looks like a nice outing ✅
Is there any elevation changes or all relatively flat in that region ?
Pics of your bike at the stops perhaps 🤔
Full before we left and topped up again during the ride and refueled again when I got home. Max altitude is only 343 metres so relatively flat country.
Thursday I ride to Pickering Brook, it's a small place up in the hills of Perth WA. It's the day the Vintage & British bikes get together for coffee and chat. I rode my XJR1300 today. The GSX in a photo belongs to another fella,
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Thursday, 16 January 2025, 11:54 AM123K / 76 miles round trip to get my morning coffee.
30 degrees C on the way out, 33 C on the way home.
(https://i.ibb.co/Ytb96dc/IMG-1173.jpg) (https://ibb.co/khMnpD4)
How are you finding the comfort on longer and shorter rides ? Are you having to look up with your neck ?
Quote from: Rynglieder on Thursday, 16 January 2025, 05:33 AMJust an hour each way for me today with a walk around Tenbury Wells in the middle.
This was the ride that got aborted due to flooding late last year. It was a dry bright day today, but the roads were damp and dirty as you will see from the state of the GSX after such a short run.
Still, the sun stayed out for my photos and with the thermometer nudging double digits these days can't be missed at this time of year in the UK.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/rynglieder/albums/72177720323208169/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/rynglieder/albums/72177720323208169/)
Really enjoyed it though, I think it had been a month since I last braved a ride out.
Very pretty countryside .. I was amazed and impressed with all the lovely old towns in country England when we visited in 2014
Quote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 16 January 2025, 05:40 PMQuote from: Tony Nitrous on Thursday, 16 January 2025, 11:54 AM123K / 76 miles round trip to get my morning coffee.
30 degrees C on the way out, 33 C on the way home.
How are you finding the comfort on longer and shorter rides ? Are you having to look up with your neck ?
No dramas. I've had various Busa's and GSXR's continually for over 20+ years. The Gen-3 has better positioned bars than my Gen-1 and Gen-2, and the proper cruise control makes a huge difference.
I bought it knowing there were various options to raise bars, lower pegs, change seats etc but I'm happy enough as it is.
I have a couple of long interstate rides planned, I've used the 14 or B-King in the past but I'll see how the Gen-3 go's.
I'm 62 this year, a list of health issues like a medical dictionary. I'm in denial that there might be a day I can't ride the bikes I love. That might be the day I sell up and buy a fun car, hopefully not soon!
QuoteI'm 62 this year, a list of health issues like a medical dictionary. I'm in denial that there might be a day I can't ride the bikes I love. That might be the day I sell up and buy a fun car, hopefully not soon!
Sounds like me but I'll be 72 in a few months. Every visit to a Dr produces a new name for an ailment 😂😂 Riding keeps me sane don't care about the pain.
Quote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 16 January 2025, 10:59 PMQuoteI'm 62 this year, a list of health issues like a medical dictionary. I'm in denial that there might be a day I can't ride the bikes I love. That might be the day I sell up and buy a fun car, hopefully not soon!
Sounds like me but I'll be 72 in a few months. Every visit to a Dr produces a new name for an ailment 😂😂 Riding keeps me sane don't care about the pain.
Lol yep me too. 75 yrs old ! Getting out there today , here in NZ Wgton the weather is perfect for my usual fang to Pahiatua for the round trip of 160kms . Cigars n coffee clear the head. Its gunna be great...xxxxxxxxx
Quote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 16 January 2025, 10:59 PMQuoteI'm 62 this year, a list of health issues like a medical dictionary. I'm in denial that there might be a day I can't ride the bikes I love. That might be the day I sell up and buy a fun car, hopefully not soon!
Sounds like me but I'll be 72 in a few months. Every visit to a Dr produces a new name for an ailment 😂😂 Riding keeps me sane don't care about the pain.
I've looked at other options. I have a naked upright Busa and a B-King, the H2 SX SE was in some ways a nicer riding position but wasn't for me. I did try a Z-H2 but it was too much like the SX.
There is a lighter, upright naked bike I've had in mind for a while but unless I have a serious clean out, or cull my pension, then it's out of my budget at the moment.
There are some very neat and subtle mods available for the Busa's bars, seat, pegs etc but I'll hold off for now.
Over the years my health, finances and taste in bikes has changed a few times, so I accept my next bike isn't set in stone. I would like something special before I step down though.
205 K's (127 miles) for a coffee and bacon and egg roll this morning.
(https://i.ibb.co/7QRvznL/IMG-1181.jpg) (https://ibb.co/42YWf83)
(https://i.ibb.co/dQSjk4Y/IMG-1182.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9qJcyH5)
Despite the Gen-3 and Gen-2 sharing the same frame and swingarm, having the same size engine, and being on the same theme, there's a lot of differences between a stock Gen-3 and a slightly modded Gen-2 and they are surprisingly different to ride. To me they offer something different to each other and are both good bikes in different ways.
On the 26th January it will be one year since my quad bypass heart op. I've been back playing tennis for three months, spent three weeks mainly in my tent biking around the South Island. Went to Whanganui for the street races.
Like others I'm making the most of the time I have being able to enjoy riding the bike. On my last visit to the chemist I came away with a frigging carrier bag full of meds for my smorgasbord of ailments !!
Today I took the bride out to Rotorua and Lake Tarawera as part of getting her bike fit for out trip to the South Island. Only did 190km but that was a comfortable ride. Was nice to go somewhere we haven't been before.
Booked on the ferry 5th March. I did say we could take the caravan but she said she wanted to go on the bike. Who am I to argue.... :smitten: :boogie:
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Friday, 17 January 2025, 12:57 PM205 K's (127 miles)
(https://i.ibb.co/7QRvznL/IMG-1181.jpg) (https://ibb.co/42YWf83)
^ Floating Cafe ^
It's at a place called Grantham, for folk outside of Australia it's a place mentioned in this vid.
2011, 33 dead and an area hit bigger than France and Germany combined.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmAmx84LXMU
Quote from: Kiwifruit on Friday, 17 January 2025, 02:17 PMOn the 26th January it will be one year since my quad bypass heart op. I've been back playing tennis for three months, spent three weeks mainly in my tent biking around the South Island. Went to Whanganui for the street races.
Like others I'm making the most of the time I have being able to enjoy riding the bike. On my last visit to the chemist I came away with a frigging carrier bag full of meds for my smorgasbord of ailments !!
Today I took the bride out to Rotorua and Lake Tarawera as part of getting her bike fit for out trip to the South Island. Only did 190km but that was a comfortable ride. Was nice to go somewhere we haven't been before.
Booked on the ferry 5th March. I did say we could take the caravan but she said she wanted to go on the bike. Who am I to argue.... :smitten: :boogie:
Will Westport be in the itinery Col? you know there's a bed available mate . . . (and laundry :happy1:)
Hard to watch that video Tony, even all these years later.Were exactly in that weather pattern at moment, lots of rain and a low off the coast. Always a bit scary this time of year. My house on a hill and on one metre stumps,way i planned for rain events.
Quote from: grog on Friday, 17 January 2025, 04:08 PMHard to watch that video Tony, even all these years later.Were exactly in that weather pattern at moment, lots of rain and a low off the coast. Always a bit scary this time of year. My house on a hill and on one metre stumps,way i planned for rain events.
Same. We built high up on a hill and still brought in 250+ cubes of fill to raise the slab rather than cut into the hillside. It was a serious consideration for the build.
I hadn't watched the vid in a while. Certainly had a lump in the throat and grit in my eye when I did.
I would think so Col. However I'm not setting the itinerary this time. Will certainly keep you posted.
I managed a quick 278K's (172 mile) coffee run this morning.
(https://i.ibb.co/Wg5M3Ww/IMG-1223.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MMSthD4)
(https://i.ibb.co/zbC2hKS/IMG-1224.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ctR8czN)
(https://i.ibb.co/5vt2dxm/IMG-1222.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6bVN2Jz)
Just an hour & 20 min run for me, Westport to Fox River & back. Some great corners in there though.
4th good ride in the last 8 days.
A bit hot but out of town and up to speed it's fine.
1 or 2 spots of rain but nothing of note.
Another good day to be out on a bike.
Mostly fast twisty back roads with a couple of stops so I didn't really miss the Gen-3's cruise control and nicer bars on this ride.
(https://i.ibb.co/cyZSk0M/IMG-1256.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NFJdt5Q)
(https://i.ibb.co/jM0VfRc/IMG-1257.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HzwN4dW)
(https://i.ibb.co/cN062Kc/IMG-1258.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mHk9hrC)
@Tony Nitrous hypothetically speaking, how fast is "up to speed"? :popcorn:
Quote from: KiwiCol on Thursday, 23 January 2025, 05:06 PM@Tony Nitrous hypothetically speaking, how fast is "up to speed"? :popcorn:
:P :rofl2: :rofl2: the speed limit officer 👮�♂️
No riding, 3 days of super hot. Still 38c at moment and sun about to set. So hot has killed all my tomatoes and capsicum plants😡Cooler tomorrow, a SthEast change coming, breeze off ocean rather than land as its been.Just looked at UK temp, 10 degrees, sure a contrast.I prefer mine.
We've got storm unpronounceable too. So drafty and gusty with light rain & surprisingly warm. It's a bit* worse in Ireland though, apparently they recorded 100mph winds in Galway.
Friday morning set off at 9am, headed over the Kaimai Range on via Putararu and Tokoroa to Taupo for lunch. Parked the bike under a shady tree. We enjoyed a tasty meal at a lake front cafe. Went for a walk around the town and along to the marina. You and Mrs Barmy will remember that area Dave. Lots of tourists about. Parasailing, getting towed behind a boat was very popular today. Jeez they go high then they slow down and dip them in the water. Looked like fun. The floatplane scenic flights were busy too.
Our return journey home took us through Rotorua and Ngongotaha. Just under 300kms for the day so the wifes bottom side should be starting to get bike fit. Home safe and sound. A great day out.
Which bike Col ? Pictures ?
I worked in the heat today 🥵🥵🥵🍺🍺🍺
The ride home on the GSX felt like being slowly cooked 🍳🍳🍳
7pm at night feels like 34 degrees Celsius
:happy1: Wrong Col Chris . . .
Ooops it's because you both look so similar lol 😂
Saturday ride to Byford Bakery, the weather has been rather warm where we live and today there was a shower of rain overnight which made things a tad more humid than I like.
Bit warm, but I had to go into the city anyway so taking a bike and a breakfast detour was too tempting.
(https://i.ibb.co/h1JRF9Py/IMG-1314.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FqLb43SK)
(My Mrs hates personal plates! :whistling:)
(https://i.ibb.co/mC4YG9Hx/IMG-1315.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ccQp16Nm)
(https://i.ibb.co/zWxgJhdh/IMG-1316.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8nswcDkD)
(https://i.ibb.co/DfmrKy3N/IMG-1317.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tpnLCtyS)
(https://i.ibb.co/YFwjk0DT/IMG-1318.jpg) (https://ibb.co/S4GvnfQ7)
36.8 when I looked at midday ... it was a warm Thursday ride, :furious: :devil:
Quote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 30 January 2025, 04:24 PM36.8 when I looked at midday ... it was a warm Thursday ride, :furious: :devil:
Highest I saw here today was 32.7 after I got home.
It felt warm in bike gear earlier but it wasn't hot enough to spoil the fun.
Quote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 30 January 2025, 04:24 PM36.8 when I looked at midday ... it was a warm Thursday ride, :furious: :devil:
38 deg at home, sure i saw 41 on the gauge in Perth cbd. 25% RH but still too hot to ride
Not today but tomorrow morning doing a Mt.Glorious run meeting @ BP The Gap at 6:30 for 7am departure we'll go to the T and back to the cafe. Everyone welcome 👍
Weather prediction for the next week 🤞🤞 for fair weather Saturday
Quote from: GSXKING on Friday, 31 January 2025, 09:25 AMNot today but tomorrow morning doing a Mt.Glorious run meeting @ BP The Gap at 6:30 for 7am departure we'll go to the T and back to the cafe. Everyone welcome 👍
Sorry, I'm washing my hair.
Still very much winter here and it takes a bright sunny day to get me motivated.
Yesterday looked good though and I was struggling to remember having been anywhere on the GTR since my return from Europe. The GSX and Z have had short runs over the last couple of months so it was surely the turn of the big blue 'un.
I had really good run out on my default "don't know where I want to go" route and then extended it to Hopton Castle to walk a lap of the ruins. From there I had an uncontrollable urge to visit Leintwardine and then before I'd got stuck into the ride home I was distracted by an historic priory gatehouse and church at Bromfield.
As nice day out and although nothing came from the sky the roads had been wet from field run-off in places, so a further hour had to be spent waving the hosepipe and sponge at it when I got home.
Always a joy to be out on a bike though, cleaning is the price you pay.
Photos in the usual place:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/rynglieder/albums/72177720323524039/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/rynglieder/albums/72177720323524039/)
6 bikes and 7 riders turned up this morning. We pulled up at MtG Cafe at 7:30 & a rough guesstimate possibly 100 bikes parked there and literally no spaces to utilise. So we decided to head to Fernvale for breakfast. I haven't ridden MtG a lot recently and will be avoiding it in future. The reason is all previous speed limits which made it a reasonable ride have been reduced a further 20kmh. So making what was a pleasantly challenging ride basically a license losing prospect in many areas. There was no Police presence today however many riders complained about blitzes being conducted and roadworthy issues being investigated if they didn't ping you for speeding. It's all about revenue raising in Queensland and the Police are complicit in these actions by being compelled to write a particular amount of tickets per day to finance their patrols basically.
We witnessed some very fast guys testing their skill level without concern as they were obviously fully in control of their bikes. The sound of a big bore bike nearing the rev limiter is exhilarating to say the least.
Fernvale was not busy when we arrived but an hour later it was getting very busy. There's a few roads in and out but one main road.
Some headed back over the mountains. We headed straight back home to Mt. Cotton through a handful of quite intense showers.
A wet week forecast here it is the wet season.
I'm planning on heading to Kenilworth next weekend if you're interested in joining us pm me 🙏
480k ride to Boddington then Beverley then home .. warm but tolerable unless stopped waiting on road works.
Quote from: GSXKING on Saturday, 01 February 2025, 01:14 PM6 bikes and 7 riders turned up this morning. We pulled up at MtG Cafe at 7:30 & a rough guesstimate possibly 100 bikes parked there and literally no spaces to utilise. So we decided to head to Fernvale for breakfast. I haven't ridden MtG a lot recently and will be avoiding it in future. The reason is all previous speed limits which made it a reasonable ride have been reduced a further 20kmh. So making what was a pleasantly challenging ride basically a license losing prospect in many areas. There was no Police presence today however many riders complained about blitzes being conducted and roadworthy issues being investigated if they didn't ping you for speeding. It's all about revenue raising in Queensland and the Police are complicit in these actions by being compelled to write a particular amount of tickets per day to finance their patrols basically.
We witnessed some very fast guys testing their skill level without concern as they were obviously fully in control of their bikes. The sound of a big bore bike nearing the rev limiter is exhilarating to say the least.
Fernvale was not busy when we arrived but an hour later it was getting very busy. There's a few roads in and out but one main road.
Some headed back over the mountains. We headed straight back home to Mt. Cotton through a handful of quite intense showers.
A wet week forecast here it is the wet season.
I'm planning on heading to Kenilworth next weekend if you're interested in joining us pm me 🙏
I haven't been over Glorious in years and doubt I will if it's gotten even worse.
I should be without adult supervision at home this weekend so will let you know if I feel the urge to head for Kenilworth.
I stopped doing Nebo, Glorious, Mee a few years back.
Lower speed limits, cops looking for victims, vehicle inspections, too many folk having dramas, even locals causing problems.
Now I only use them as a way to get somewhere in a legal vehicle on weekdays. They aren't a place I go to enjoy bikes.
I haven't been over Glorious in years and doubt I will if it's gotten even worse.
I should be without adult supervision at home this weekend so will let you know if I feel the urge to head for Kenilworth.
I will also be without rear seat supervision Saturday.
So should be a fairly spirited ride obviously within the speed limit orifacer 😵�💫
PM me if you want for contact details 🙏
Take Grog & Vlad on the ride . . .
Might be a plan Col.Nice little ride from here apart from never ending roadworks, i mean years n years.
It's an open invite Col.
I can't make them ride.
Believe me I've tried 🤯🤯
Only 179k's (111 miles) but a nice little local cruise, 25 degrees C, dry roads, little traffic.
(https://i.ibb.co/sd6Csq5V/IMG-1394.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5gnksLYR)
(https://i.ibb.co/hFK01kGh/IMG-1395.jpg) (https://ibb.co/k2hZ6pLk)
(https://i.ibb.co/tT0WhBVP/IMG-1393.jpg) (https://ibb.co/pBH9P2Yr)
(https://i.ibb.co/MD4jP45t/IMG-1398.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ccHp2HXZ)
I've had the Gen-3 for almost 3 years. Still love it.
I judge my bikes partly on if it was stolen or written off today, what would I buy tomorrow. The Gen-3 is one of the few bikes that I'd buy another straight away without hesitation. It's almost everything I want in a bike and I haven't found an alternative that has better.
Some days I do ride it and think wouldn't it be great with a pipe, Gen-2 cams, short stacks etc.... then another day I think just leave it alone, it doesn't need to be messed with and you don't need another project.
Rode to Kenilworth this morning and had breakfast at Nanna McGins we had an awesome ride. The food and service was very good also.
We had a beer at The Mapleton hotel and a game of pool.
Headed south on a 480km loop to a hotrod 1/8th mile dirt drag strip event today. I forgot to take pictures of anything at all :doh: but I did manage a few passenger runs with a mate in his 680hp 10sec 1/4 mile Holden Premier.
Quiet country roads so the 1400 spent most of the day with the speedo needle beyond vertical.
Quote from: lurch on Saturday, 08 February 2025, 05:27 PMHeaded south on a 480km loop to a hotrod 1/8th mile dirt drag strip event today. I forgot to take pictures of anything at all :doh: but I did manage a few passenger runs with a mate in his 680hp 10sec 1/4 mile Holden Premier. :onya:
Quiet country roads so the 1400 spent most of the day with the speedo needle beyond vertical.
No Pictures 🤔 Better go back and do it all again .. This time take pictures 😂
Just a 148k loop today and it wasn't on the Suzi .. my XJR has been sulking in the shed so I took it for a spin .. and I took some pictures 😂😂
400k ride on Sunday, perfect weather for it.
Micky, cartoon is good👍I had keys to Mates CanAm,maybe 3 yrs, he never used it, i never did either🤷Just dont interest me.
Trikes, only for those with no sense of balance.
I've no idea why they turn up at bike places, as soon as it's got 3 wheels & 1 isn't a side car, then it's a CAR.
Quite a lot of the trike riders I see have no leg movement and have their wheelchair or crutches attached to the back of the trike.
Quote from: grog on Monday, 10 February 2025, 04:30 PMMicky, cartoon is good👍I had keys to Mates CanAm,maybe 3 yrs, he never used it, i never did either🤷Just dont interest me.
They don't interest me at all, I know a few guys with the Spydors and Honda Goldwing Trikes. If I required that amount of balance I'd buy a Cool Hot Rod.
If I developed a balance problem, I'd get a side-car. Or, more likely, quit.
Quote from: Mick_J on Monday, 10 February 2025, 08:32 PMQuite a lot of the trike riders I see have no leg movement and have their wheelchair or crutches attached to the back of the trike.
I'm sure they enjoy their silly 3 wheeled cars, but they aren't bikes.
Can't remember brand/model (think Yamaha), but there is only one thingy with three wheels (besides side-car-bike) that you can register here as a bike and you have to have a bike license. All others are ride only driveable with a car driver license. Makes them cars (or thingies) in my book.
Quote from: Andre on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 07:34 AMCan't remember brand/model (think Yamaha), but there is only one thingy with three wheels (besides side-car-bike) that you can register here as a bike and you have to have a bike license. All others are ride only driveable with a car driver license. Makes them cars (or thingies) in my book.
I know the one you mean, it's a scooter. I think it comes with a choice of two widths at the front, so you can buy the car or bike version.
There is a three wheel bike thing too but that's too ugly to even think about.
If you really must have one of these things, I think this is the only acceptable choice. However, you may need to flog a kidney and part of your liver to get one...Campagna Motors T-Rex 14RR.
Yamaha Niken and it takes a lot of commitment at tip in 😳
Piaggio MP3 450cc pull up at lights flick switch locks front suspension in place, no need for foot down. Popular with ladies wearing high heels inner city types.
High heels on a bike?? Have they not heard
of ATGATT? I don't, but def no fecken high heels, ~ well, not when Nottys about . . .
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 12:18 PMHigh heels on a bike?? Have they not heard
of ATGATT? I don't, but def no fecken high heels, ~ well, not when Nottys about . . .
A highlight of a trip to Rome is sitting outside cāfes drinking coffee, watching the repeating 'Traffic Light GP' involving hoards of scooters ridden by beautiful people in stunning, designer street wear.
In Naples, there's an utter disregard for any road rules that somehow does not result in piles of bikers every few steps. It's an unfathomable thing of madness and beauty, that reminded me of murmurations of starlings.
In Vietnam particularly Saigon (Ho Chi Min) city hosts 9 million scooters, there is zero road rage even in peak hours. Pedestrians are given free rein to cross fairly much anywhere you please.
We saw only one accident and she was stationary falling sideways as she missed the ground with her foot. I offered to help pick it up and she was quite indignant.
My cousin pillioned me on his 450 scooter which was terrifying and exhilarating at the same time. I'm about four times the size of the average Vietnamese so they were quite surprised to be overtaken by us 😳😳
After just riding from Hanoi to Ho Chi Min city couldn't agree more it feels like organised chaos but there was no road rage and the system works for them, limited signs, people using their own brain it was very refreshing. The things they accomplish with a scooter is mind boggling from towing a trailer with a fully grown cow in it (no way it could have stopped in reasonable time) to accessing a muddy hilltop in the jungle that I thought lucky my XR300 Honda was able to get to, the resilance of these people is staggering.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 12:18 PMHigh heels on a bike?? Have they not heard
of ATGATT? I don't, but def no fecken high heels, ~ well, not when Nottys about . . .
I got a pair of used cans (cause the po of my 14 had "cleaned them completely out), bought with 1k km on them. Had some tiny sratches on it. Seller said they came from the wife's high heels.
Quote from: GSXKING on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 11:12 AMYamaha Niken and it takes a lot of commitment at tip in 😳
That's the one I was thinking about. Just looked in a review and they classified it as a sports tourer. :rofl2:
Quote from: Horse on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 06:34 PMAfter just riding from Hanoi to Ho Chi Min city couldn't agree more it feels like organised chaos but there was no road rage and the system works for them, limited signs, people using their own brain it was very refreshing. The things they accomplish with a scooter is mind boggling from towing a trailer with a fully grown cow in it (no way it could have stopped in reasonable time) to accessing a muddy hilltop in the jungle that I thought lucky my XR300 Honda was able to get to, the resilance of these people is staggering.
I wish all our migrants here were from Vietnam. Very disciplined, hard working. And they certainly appear to know how to use their brains. Make good role models imo for our entire population.
Quote from: Andre on Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 07:12 AMQuote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 12:18 PMHigh heels on a bike?? Have they not heard
of ATGATT? I don't, but def no fecken high heels, ~ well, not when Nottys about . . .
I got a pair of used cans (cause the po of my 14 had "cleaned them completely out), bought with 1k km on them. Had some tiny sratches on it. Seller said they came from the wife's high heels.
Did he say who was wearing the heels though? :confused1: :whistling:
Quote from: Hooli on Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 07:54 AMQuote from: Andre on Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 07:12 AMQuote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 12:18 PMHigh heels on a bike?? Have they not heard
of ATGATT? I don't, but def no fecken high heels, ~ well, not when Nottys about . . .
I got a pair of used cans (cause the po of my 14 had "cleaned them completely out), bought with 1k km on them. Had some tiny sratches on it. Seller said they came from the wife's high heels.
Did he say who was wearing the heels though? :confused1: :whistling:
Nope. But they were located in the pillion area. Maybe his wife was steering the bike... ??? Nowadays everything is possible.
Rear Sets?
Out and about today, super hot n humid. Had my route worked out, 1/2 way had a look at sky. Thought hmm, looks stormy. Headed for home, rode into shed with about four drops of rain on me, 2 mins later down it came. Not often im that lucky👍
Went out early for a gentle 150kms ride around country roads, taking in breakfast at a nice café in Marton in the Manawatū.
One of those days with little traffic, no-one trying to wipe me out, and riding the bike felt effortless...joyous :clapping:
Late report.... we've been going riding on Fridays as the weekend clowns are nice to avoid.
From home in Tauranga we headed east to Whakatane. Stopped in at a bike shop there and got my boots. Then over the hill to Ohope for lunch. Carried on further east to Ohiwa where we checked out a nice little campground for future reference. Headed towards home through Taneatua then Edgecombe and back out to the coast along the Matata straight before getting on the expressway and home. 277kms for the day, great weather, not too hot not too cold.... just right !!
New tyres this week for our trip to the South Island so
looking forward to those :cheers:
Sounds great Col 👍
Any pics ? Did the cheese tag along ?
Can of worms time 😳😳
What tyres are you choosing for the big trip ?
I'm picking Mitchy Road 6's. & Yes, it says Mrs KF went along, keep up Chris . . .
Quote from: KiwiCol on Sunday, 16 February 2025, 05:07 PMI'm picking Mitchy Road 6's. & Yes, it says Mrs KF went along, keep up Chris . . .
I see only references to "we" and "our"...I thought that, quite understandably, reflected the closeness of the relationship between a man and his bike :smitten:
Sorry no piccys Chris.
Yes Col 3rd set.
It was a threesome Roy :smitten:
Did a local breakfast run this morning. Down the hill, North, back up. Only 245K's (152 miles) but it was a nice morning.
I did have my reoccurring ache in my right arm, but I tried to exercise it by sitting outside a bakery and lifting a custard slice.
Much as I love the blue Gen-2 I do prefer the Gen-3 once I'm over 100 miles in.
(https://i.ibb.co/3YmRYMm5/IMG-1511.jpg) (https://ibb.co/93HZ3VHm)
(https://i.ibb.co/qYmJ6cg8/IMG-1510.jpg) (https://ibb.co/YBf0g1dS)
(https://i.ibb.co/LzLYzcsk/IMG-1509.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8DWNDfQK)
Perseverance looks fairly full 😳
Quote from: GSXKING on Monday, 17 February 2025, 03:03 PMPerseverance looks fairly full 😳
Yeah, it actually overflowed not long back.
Lake Cressbrook below it is similar.
There were plans to clear an area above Perserverance for a new reservoir to do a pumped hydro system. They did all the numbers and had public meetings etc but it's been very quiet for over a year now.
Early run this morning. Out past Jondaryan, around Acland, then North through Brymaroo.
Some of the roads were a bit rougher than ideal, but all fast open sections, everyone seemed happy to be at well over the posted speeds!
(https://i.ibb.co/bjt70nc6/IMG-1530.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ZR9NjCqf)
EE Canberra, proper aircraft that.
Nice to see some blue skies in your phtos guys, I could do with some antipodean weather here at the moment, it seems to have been relentlessly cold and gloomy for weeks now.
I did grab the chance of some hazy sunshine yesterday afternoon though for a short run on the Z1000.
My ride took in a visit to the Engine House museum on the Severn Valley Railway at Highley, but I'd chosen the wrong day. As it it schools half-term week the place was full of noisy kids. I suppose I could have hung around to meet Paddington Bear or watch the magic show, but on reflection I decided to revisit on a quieter day.
It was 6 degrees at best so I was glad to get back to my central heating after a couple of hours. Quick stop by the river at Bridgnorth and back home. Not much of a ride at around 40 miles, but still good to be out.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/rynglieder/albums/72177720323950274/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/rynglieder/albums/72177720323950274/)
Highley & Bridgnorth.jpg
Didn't ride anywhere on the 1400 unfortunately but I did get back to my first (riding) love. The wife's DR650 was in need of a decent run and an oil change so I "borrowed" it for the day and went solo looking for new trails in some forestry I ride regularly. The lantana and grass was well over my head in some places. I had to hop off and man handle the DR a few times and found myself giggling like a schoolgirl :facepalm:
I've got a Victorian high country ride coming up in a few weeks on my 701 so there'll be a lot more offroad riding happening until then.
22/02/2025 Beeston castle, c.135 miles
220 Beeston Castle run.jpg
Another bright day was forecast with temperatures just into double figures, so it was time to pull the GSX out to stretch its legs.
The destination was to be Beeston Castle in Cheshire, about 65 miles northwest of home. My outward trip was of my own choice, largely using the familiar A41 to get up into Cheshire and included a coffee stop at the Raven Café at Prees heath. I was by no means the only bike out, a decent day made it feel that everyone who owns a bike had plucked it from the garage, I don't think I have ever seen so many on the road in February.
Beyond Whitchurch were roads I less often travelled and it is always good to be on new ground. The bike was pulled up on the castle's car park and I slogged up the hill for a mooch around. The castle itself is not that spectacular, but the views from the top make the climb worthwhile. I could just about pick out the radio telescope dish of Jodrell Bank beyond the Cheshire Plains, but I was left guessing about what a lot of the other hill ranges around me were.
220A.JPG
220B.JPG
220c.JPG
I courageously let the Zumo chose the way home, it did find me a few country roads that were virgin territory, but it rather uncharitably brought me back toward home via Telford's dreary dual carriageways. Serves me right for not plotting the route myself I suppose.
A quick cup of tea was snatched at my sister's house near Dudley before finishing the day off. It had mostly been under blue skies but there were a couple of minor showers and the flooded lanes near the castle mean that the GSX is going to need a bath in short order.
Great pics Pete. Pleased to see pay to park and orange cones are not exclusive to NZ.
380K's / 236 miles.
A bit warm at 33 C but still nice.
(https://i.ibb.co/mFbC23yX/IMG-1570.jpg) (https://ibb.co/93c9174V)
(https://i.ibb.co/TBnZhfMX/IMG-1571.jpg) (https://ibb.co/27LwK932)
Maybe 2 more rides and it'll be another pair of new tyres and a main service.
Quote from: Kiwifruit on Monday, 24 February 2025, 08:08 AMGreat pics Pete. Pleased to see pay to park and orange cones are not exclusive to NZ.
Being an English Heritage member means I get to park for free on their sites if I display a windscreen sticker, however that is firmly adhered to the Jaguar.
I had a word with them at the reception desk and in hushed tones was told not to worry about it. I would speculate the parking charge is not actually enforced and anyone who sticks three quid in the machine is a bit of a bonus for them.
286k (177 mile) loop heading East and back to get a bacon and egg roll.
Saw 36 degrees C (97F) heading back.
Funny day, nice at home, cloudy and windy further East, hot and calm inbetween. Cyclone might bring us some rain. Wife has been told that no one is required to go the the city this week due to storm warnings.
(https://i.ibb.co/DD870cKX/IMG-1624.jpg) (https://ibb.co/GvtVzYPw)
(https://i.ibb.co/bMrPcqmM/IMG-1623.jpg) (https://ibb.co/21jyGmh1)
I went down on 14 to visit a mate in Kent over the weekend & she wanted to go visit her old haunts, so we ended up here to eat & watch the idiots doing stunts on the road outside.
FB_IMG_1741425969320.jpg
It's improved a lot since I last went, the food wasn't bad now, it was terrible 15 years ago when I went last. Then rode around the centre of town, to other places & two weekend trips to Hastings & Rye. I've not sorted or stolen the pics yet so this one is all you're getting for now.
Damn ULEZ charge is a joke though, cost £12.50 just to enter London due to the age of that bike. At least bikes are exempt from the congestion charge so far.
@ Hooli. We are lucky down here they haven't hit us with that little tax yet.
That's why I've not been for about 15 years, I only went this time as she offered to pay the charge.
We rode to Woodford over Mt.Mee for breakfast at Jallas. Lots of debris after our cyclone last weekend. However it was quite manageable. The route home was via Kilcoy, Somerset Dam (which is quite full) and Pine Mountain.
8 of us had a lovely day out 29deg C middle of March. :cheers:
Rode through the Adelaide Hills the other day, mid Autumn but still very warm. The old girl still runs like a new bike.
& she still looks great too Coopz. :onya:
Quote from: Coopz on Thursday, 27 March 2025, 08:01 AMRode through the Adelaide Hills the other day, mid Autumn but still very warm. The old girl still runs like a new bike.
I remember test riding a blue, when I got back I asked if they had anything faster. So they wheeled out my blue and white beast 😈😈😈😎
Shame the black ones had all been snapped up Chris
They hadn't finished building the black ones yet back then....
Quote from: Kiwifruit on Thursday, 27 March 2025, 05:44 PMShame the black ones had all been snapped up Chris
No need for racism mate 😳😳😳
Aw I had a black K5, biggest dust magnet ever..
That's cause they're so slow the dust can keep up :stir:
Was never any dust on my K7.
No dust in Ireland as its too wet
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Friday, 28 March 2025, 06:50 AMNo dust in Ireland as its too wet
My K7 is in Oz only got a K5 here it's only half black the rest is red like a Ferrari.
Any water in it, like LeClerc's Ferrari?
Rode out to Mangaweka this morning via the Inland Scenic Route. Cool to begin with, but warmed up in the sunshine.
A typical rural NZ ride...vehicle-wise, saw only three farm utes in the 80kms to the café, but came across a cow, a sheep and a lost-looking heading dog at various points. Regarding the dog, I pulled up at a nearby house to enquire if it was theirs and paused at the shut farm gate with a "Beware of the dog sign"...while weighing up going in or not, the bike alerted the homeowner who came out, behind a large Rottweiler who was displeased to see me. Definitely a case of discretion being the best part of valour.
Then continued down the road, to come across a flock of wax eyes on each side of the road...up they flew, with one smacking me in the chest. I think I came out of it better than it did.
Came across several lengthy sections, including 25km/h downhill bends, of fresh, deep unconsolidated gravel...no signs to alert as to what was coming. A squirrelly 14 is not my idea of fun!
Arrived at cafe for brekkie...very nice, as it always is. Then down SH1 towards Palmerston North. All good until a truck and trailer unit coming towards me was overtaken by a dozen blokes on Harleys, forcing me to the left of my lane...f*****s!! The manner of their riding, type of bikes and clothing strongly suggested they were gang members...much harder to spot them since the Govt made it a crime to wear gang insignia in public.
Enjoyable time afterwards, going along Vinegar Hill with still little traffic...suspect the clocks going back meant the Kiwis were having a lie in.
Got home without any further adventures.
175kms trip, long enough to put a grin on my face, and short enough for me to get jobs done at home after. Winner winner, chicken dinner.
Did you stop at Dukes Roadhouse ? Nice there always smells of Macrocarpa.
Good riding country but plenty of that loose gravel to watch out for.
Excellent write up Roy. 👍🙏
No pics Roy ?
Whiteways yesterday, turbo gsx in car park, didn't get to speak to him though
Usual Sunday trip to Chepstow for coffee and bacon roll - 90 mile round trip - a very enjoyable slow ride today as our normal pacesetter was busy - not much over 50mph ( ok sad old gits I know !! ) :)
Yes, Duke's Roadhouse. Will give Awastone a go next time.
I'm terrible at taking photos, but will make an effort next time.
Don't have to be going quick to enjoy the ride Notty. Bacon roll and coffee :drool:
I Agree with Col above, whilst spirited riding can be such a buzz, a more sedate pace with stops for pic's & food etc can be very enjoyable and stress free - not concerned should plod be coming round the next corner.
Good on ya Notty for being out there & doing it. :cheers: :onya:
Quote from: Notty on Monday, 07 April 2025, 01:54 AMUsual Sunday trip to Chepstow for coffee and bacon roll - 90 mile round trip - a very enjoyable slow ride today as our normal pacesetter was busy - not much over 50mph ( ok sad old gits I know !! ) :)
How are the new brakes ?
Quote from: GSXKING on Monday, 07 April 2025, 06:25 AMQuote from: Notty on Monday, 07 April 2025, 01:54 AMUsual Sunday trip to Chepstow for coffee and bacon roll - 90 mile round trip - a very enjoyable slow ride today as our normal pacesetter was busy - not much over 50mph ( ok sad old gits I know !! ) :)
How are the new brakes ?
awesome to be honest Chris - I never complained about the 6 pot except for the corrosion and continuous maintenance - very happy :)
@GSXKING
Quote from: Notty on Monday, 07 April 2025, 01:54 AMUsual Sunday trip to Chepstow for coffee and bacon roll - 90 mile round trip - a very enjoyable slow ride today as our normal pacesetter was busy - not much over 50mph ( ok sad old gits I know !! ) :)
Not sad gits at all...I get my jollies from riding as smoothly as I can, and enjoying acceleration (rather than speed) when I feel like it.
I prefer to ride alone and let others be daft.
I just ride, today was perfect day, prob didnt get over 120,sometimes i like a quick run, not always. Bike feels so diff with bars back a bit. Its like im in the middle now, seems easier to turn, anyway im enjoying.👍
Been a few biker deaths this past week or so in Sussex, one guy I believe in his late 70s had a heart attack whilst riding and hit a telegraph pole, the other guy was hit head on by an Amazon van pulling a stupid overtake. Neither involved speed but plenty of accidents do, I tend to bimble with the odd bout of hard acceleration.
300km round trip, MtCotton to Boonah for breakfast with 2 other hardy/brave souls, some wet some dry and lots of Damp patches in between. Tried a new cafe called Revival. It turns out the owner was the original guy at Flavours. Both food and coffee were exemplary as was the service.
Came back via Amberley and MtG the roads were quite treacherous and a high level of concentration was required. I experienced a massive downpour 10kms from home and was very happy with my new wet weather gear.
120km early morning ride to Pahiatua and back. 6C when I set off, but once sun rose it soon took the edge off.
This was my first ride along the Pahiatua Track (name of the road) which I'd describe as a lovely, winding, undulating rode through pretty scenery...sorry, no pics as I didn't really see see somewhere to stop and take any decent ones. I think Roo knows this road well, so he may have a suggestion.
We have a friend staying for the weekend, so I snuck out early before the rest of the household woke. I'd checked online for cafes, and its website said that the Thyme 2 Ryes cafe was open...disappointingly, it was not. I got a very average pie and coffee from a small bakery/cafe in the township.
There was little traffic and only very small areas of bike-unfriendly road works...and no wandering livestock, pets or deer this weekend was a bonus.
I toyed with coming home via the Saddle Road (similar to the Track in many ways), but local drivers spank along it like knobs. Can't wait for the new Manawatū-Tararua Highway to open later this year, after which traffic on the Saddle Road will lessen significantly and it will become another nice local route.
After tomorrow I'm off for almost two weeks, so weather permitting I'll venture further afield on the days that aren't public holidays. Tempted by the Forgotten Highway and a visit to the Republic of Whangamōmona.
Did a usual run for me, Home to Fox River & back via Cape Foulwind & Carters Beach. A bit of everything in this run from open straights to 25kph hairpins.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Sunday, 13 April 2025, 09:47 AMDid a usual run for me, Home to Fox River & back via Cape Foulwind & Carters Beach. A bit of everything in this run from open straights to 25kph hairpins.
Have had several good evenings at the Star tavern, and also stayed a few times at a PSA property in Carters Beach. Seriously toyed with buying a bach at Carters, but decided not to because of how fast the sea is eating away at the land.
A 630kms round trip yesterday with the specific purpose of riding the Forgotten Highway, a 150km route connecting Stratford in Taranaki to Taumarunui in the King Country.
Left home at 08:30 in sunny, but coolish weather (11C) - decided to put the liner in my leather jacket, for which I'd be very thankful in the last couple of hours of the day (when the temp was 7C).
Left home around 08:30 and filled the tank in Fielding, before heading to Stratford via Whanganui. Although the ride to Stratford was largely on State Highway 3, the light traffic meant that I could properly take in the scenery and made me again realise how easy it is to take it for granted NZ's scenery (compared to Leicestershire, where I hail from) - as it was cool, the air was particularly clear and allowed Mount Taranaki (2,518m) to show itself in its full glory for a large part of this section of the ride.
Stratford is a rural service centre approximately 220kms from home, named after the playwright, and with many of its streets named after some of his best-known characters. I had originally planned to stop for a coffee and to top up the tank, but Stratford is a rural service centre and the allure of the Forgotten Highway was such that I decided to just grab the fuel and get to Whangamōmona for lunch.
What I'm about to describe does not do justice to the Forgotten Highway. If you ever get the chance to ride it, I implore you to do so. This remote and secluded route (which is now thankfully fully sealed) follows ancient Māori tracks and farm routes over several mountain saddles. From the top of the first saddle, Strathmore, I could see the four local mountains - Taranaki, Tongariro (1,978m), Ngauruhoe (2,291m, aka Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings), and Ruapehu (2,797m). Here's a photo of Mount Taranaki from this saddle.
(https://gsx1400owners.org/forum/gallery/1/1123-3313-IMG1150.jpeg)
The next saddle is Pohokura, after which you reach Whangamōmona, a tiny, remote place, where the hotel is the only place on this Highway where you can get food and drink all year round. When I arrived, there were vehicles everywhere (a combination of 4x4s and bikes) and I needed to park up a little way from the hotel - it's the red roofed building in the background.
(https://gsx1400owners.org/forum/gallery/1/1125-6652-IMG1157.jpeg)
The development of Whangamōmona halted when 51 local mend died in WW1 - that number would have been a catastrophic loss to such a small rural community. In a couple of hours time, my wife and I will be attending a local ANZAC commemoration to remember those kiwis and Aussies who served and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations - we live in a very small, rural community which lost a staggering number of men in WW1 and WW11.
Following a coffee and burger/fries, I pushed on to Tahora, the last saddle. This overlooks mountains, railway tunnels and three Māori Pa (the site of defensive hill forts).
After a little way, I arrived at the 180m long Moki tunnel, built in the 1930s and known by locals as the Hobbit's Hole...it's not easy/safe to grab a photo of the tunnel, so here's one I found on the net...
https://www.dangerousroads.org/cache/images/900x/d/forgottenworldhighway0-80e89d15.avif
After negotiating the tunnel, it was a spectacular ride through the Tangarakau Gorge to Taumaranui - this is very tight in places, with lots of one-lane bridges, and I suspect that several of those driving hired camper vans will need a change of underwear at the end of their day's drive.
Taumaranui is at the end of the Forgotten Highway ride and after a fuel top up, I rode home via Ohakune, Waiouru, Taihape, Hunterville and Fielding. There was some shocking sunstroke on the first leg, leading to me pulling over and waiting for the sun to disappear behind the hills - while this addressed the sunstrike, the temp plummeted and the last hour or so of the ride was done in darkness. Before this, the views of the mountains on the central plateau were fantastic.
A biking day to remember.
Looks a great day Pommeroy, a good long loop ride for sure. I put the route on google maps for folk to see.
Roys Loop.JPG
If I get the Rocket up north next summer I'll have a crack at that Forgotten Highway.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Friday, 25 April 2025, 07:15 AMLooks a great day Pommeroy, a good long loop ride for sure. I put the route on google maps for folk to see.
Roys Loop.JPG
Thanks Col...I don't know how to do that.
Sent ya an email Rob. ya do now . . ..
An excellent ride report Roy. Have you been taking notes from Stan ?
The verdant Green reminds me of Ireland.
Sunstroke means something completely different here lol. 😂😂
Lucky you chose your liner that morning.
Quote from: GSXKING on Friday, 25 April 2025, 02:59 PMAn excellent ride report Roy. Have you been taking notes from Stan ?
The verdant Green reminds me of Ireland.
Sunstroke means something completely different here lol. 😂😂
Lucky you chose your liner that morning.
Ha ha...fat-finger typing, it should read sun strike!
We call it sunburn here in OZ
Amazing you blokes trips, places names, mountains with height, time for piccys, time for food,amount of fuel used, daily temp. I just have a ride, occasional piccy.
I had a day and a half to get out of dodge (Sydney) over Easter and had a blast on some roads I haven't been out on for too long.
Despite the ever present 'double demerits' threat over the long weekend had a blast and the bike was running like a dream.
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That's a very sweet looking Black Daaef. :onya: :cheers:
Looks like an interesting ride
😳
I've been on most of those roads by car a long time ago and always wondered what they'd be like to ride. Now we know.
Your bike is in absolutely cherry condition mate. Big bike and big rider 👍👍
We rode to Toowoomba today to Cafe Valletta (one of my favourites) I highly recommend it. Under cool but cloudless skies we departed Ampol Goodna and headed straight there at 8am as I'd booked a table for 9:30. It pays to book on the weekends and next week is Mother's Day, they're fully booked Saturday and Sunday and only doing high teas $69/person, 3 sittings for both days.
We came home via MaMa creek and Gatton (Heavy Horse Festival ie Clydesdales) spectacular beasts.
Had a drink at The Lockyer Hotel in Forest Hill. Fully renovated and more like an upmarket pub in Brisbane 🤫 two drinks $22 in Brisbane probably $35 so a fair bit cheaper.
Then Bobbie and I called in to see my Mum at MtGravatt for a cuppa and watch Rabbitohs get walloped by Newcastle Knights 🥳🥳🥳
We then rode home at dusk in the midst of a massive downpour ☔️☔️☔️🏍�🏍�🏍�😳😳😳 arriving looking like wet shags 😂😂
All in all a good day with mates, lots of banter, great food and another journey full of adventure.
Everything trying to dry out from last night's deluge ☔️☔️☔️🙄🙄
Took the GT for a run up to Mokihinui, we were away for 4 days doing a roady in the Merc, so it's been sat for about a week, good to be out again in some fine weather.
Nice day today. Weve been rained on for months. Did a backroads run around this arvo.Wet has carved up the roads, bumpy, pot holes, corrugations. Trees down, just mud run off so must stay on tar.These little roads are usually a bit demanding in good times, today a full mental/physical workout. Totally enjoyed.
Just a quick 160k / 100 mile local loop on the Gen-3, had to grab the Ute and head off to do some jobs.
It's still 1000k's off a main service and the tyres are sort of OK, rear has a plug, front is half worn, but I may just book it in. Get a service done early and a pair of S23's in a taller 55 rear.
I have been looking at pipes, cams, stacks and a tune, a proven derestrict package, but I need some retaining walls and concreting done, so I might wait and see how salty that bill is first !
Today we rode to Sandstone Point for lunch with two of my longest known friends we met in 1979.
The trip was via Clear Mountain, Mt. Mee and Wamuran. Roughly 290kms door to door.
The ride home was in dusk light so D'Aguilar, Mt. Mee Dayboro and the city.
Through Crows Nest, Cooyar, Maidenwell, near miss with a wild dog / dingo so had to stop at The Bunya Mountains for a vanilla slice to help with the trauma... 😁. Didn't have enough fuel to make it back to Crows Nest, so on to Kingaroy. Several laps of the town trying to find a blue tree (I didn't) Nanango, Yarraman, Blackbutt, another near miss (with a Wallaby this time) Crows Nest again and head home.
Nice warm day considering it's Winter next week.
Only 286K / 177 miles, but still fun.
The Maidenwell to Bunya Mt as well as the Blackbutt to Crows Nest roads are both now bitumen all the way, both previously had gravel sections. Both have some really good fun sections, but both have some single lane shared bitumen with dirt shoulders in places.
(https://i.ibb.co/TBz6mtqs/IMG-2307.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6R6zgFJk)
(https://i.ibb.co/9mh0mjLn/IMG-2308.jpg) (https://ibb.co/rK3hKJSk)
(https://i.ibb.co/hFrc0pC4/IMG-2310.jpg) (https://ibb.co/gZQdYs6f)
(https://i.ibb.co/Kx3C7rXz/IMG-2309.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HTkmYHVp)
That's a big skip to dump a B-King in.
Quote from: Hooli on Monday, 26 May 2025, 09:40 PMThat's a big skip to dump a B-King in.
It's one of those rural Aussie jokes...it's a normal skip with this in it...
YCMENO Limited Edition Simulation Motorcycle 1:12 for Suzuki B-King Racing Classic Alloy Motorcycle Model Collection Display Decoration Figurine Souvenir
https://a.co/d/6SvqE9l
Sarah's unplugged at Maleny by all the back roads today including Bellthorpe range. It's a road that tests all your skills.
I had the very big breakfast and won't be eating for the foreseeable future 🙀🙀.
Been doing plenty of runs to Cambridge of late as dad's been in need of some assistance and support. Not easy watching your 91yo parent struggle.
It's been a good unwind to have an 80km ride home. Motorcycling has many therapeutic benefits :cheers:
Zoom-Zoom ! Not bad for a weekday in Winter.
Cool but not cold, dry and sunny.
Bike was stomping along, feels pretty strong, even compared to my B-King, Gen-3 or lighter Gen-1.
I'd guess it's probably the most powerful of the bunch.
About as much tech and rider aids as a GSX1400 but with 180hp.
(https://i.ibb.co/JFq64Tyf/IMG-2607.jpg) (https://ibb.co/rf38ShcC)
(https://i.ibb.co/Z1fCqfgg/IMG-2608.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FqhtRhYY)
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Looks good too Tony. A Gen II 'Busa is what I'd like in my shed
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Friday, 27 June 2025, 12:39 PMLooks good too Tony. A Gen II 'Busa is what I'd like in my shed
Gen-2 is the most powerful of the 3 models.
Early Gen-2's are a fraction lighter without all the ABS gubbins. Later Gen-2 did come with Brembo's though. Longest production run of the 3, lots of improvements over the Gen-1's without the complexity, cost and emmision spec of the Gen-3.
I originally bought this one for the drags, but it's a lot of fun for the road. Gen-3 is a better tourer or long ride bike but the Gen-2 is still very entertaining.
I thought it would be a poor version in the shadow of the Gen-3 but it's different enough to be its own bike.
(https://i.ibb.co/tpq1ykcf/IMG-2512.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VYgkXrDy)
Down to one car now, room in one side of shed. Amazing not to have to slide bike past car, reckon today was first time ever have ridden not reversed out. Noticed today and recently the biker nod or wave seems to have returned, been absent here a long time. Of course not from Hardly/Indian riders.
Quote from: grog on Saturday, 28 June 2025, 02:59 PMDown to one car now, room in one side of shed. Amazing not to have to slide bike past car, reckon today was first time ever have ridden not reversed out. Noticed today and recently the biker nod or wave seems to have returned, been absent here a long time. Of course not from Hardly/Indian riders.
The nod/wave is common over here, but often the adventure bike riders don't bother.
I find the same up here Rob.
Quote from: grog on Saturday, 28 June 2025, 02:59 PMOf course not from Hardly/Indian riders.
We're too busy trying to hold on with all the vibes!
And there was me thinking must be coz your tassles get all tangled in ya aerials and flags :facepalm:
You're only jealous we look so good in arseless chaps :lol:
Bit cool, but dry and sunny. Very little traffic.
A fun few hours, 2 coffees and 1 breakfast.
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Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Friday, 04 July 2025, 01:41 PMBit cool, but dry and sunny. Very little traffic.
A fun few hours, 2 coffees and 1 breakfast.
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I applaud the work of the charity now associated with these trees... https://bluetreeproject.com.au/blue-tree-story/
There are now blue trees on every continent except Antarctica (no trees there).
Thanks for taking that photo Tony.
We have a suicide rate double our road toll here in New Zealand.
So much is spent on reducing road fatalities, suicide prevention not so much.
Good cause.
Quote from: Pommeroy on Friday, 04 July 2025, 02:31 PMI applaud the work of the charity now associated with these trees... https://bluetreeproject.com.au/blue-tree-story/
There are now blue trees on every continent except Antarctica (no trees there).
Thanks for taking that photo Tony.
I'm getting into the habit of stopping when I see one. When I share the pics a few folk have asked "what / why" and I'm happy to promote it.
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Jalla's Cafe @ Woodford.
Seven of us left BP The Gap @ 8am a chilly 🥶 9 degrees. Over Mt.Mee to Woodford for fabulous breakfast and coffee.
Home via Kilcoy, Somerset Dam and the back of Mt.Glorious 20 degrees by then, beautiful clear blue winter skies.
Home to Mt.Cotton by 2pm for a hot cuppa ☕️☕️
I know that crew, good to see you all again.
:cheers:
Took my BMW horns for a ride with their relatives in the Bay of Plenty BMW Owners Club. Covered nearly 400kms today through the South Waikato area. Te Kuiti, Otorohanga, Bennydale, Putararu most roads what many of you blokes call B roads. Heavy frost this morning so rugged up warm, throw in some fog along with damp shaded roads made for moments of excitement.
Those big GS's sure can get along modern suspension making them seem to just float along the road. I got to watch them all day as they were getting along a bit quicker than I'm used to and at times comfortable with.
Good blokes that enjoy their bikes all with interesting stories to share when we stopped for lunch or coffee.
Great day was had by all. Now it's off to the boozer to watch the All Blacks give it to France (the Rainbow Warrior bombers !!)
After weeks of wet, or frost/ice, or work related obstacles, and finishing some outside jobs today, the bike Gods aligned and I managed to get a ride in. Only 40kms, but a ride nonetheless.
Didn't really enjoy it, due to lichen on the road in shady areas and tractor-dropped mud all over the shop. Really need a few dry days, rather than one, I suspect.
Quote from: Pommeroy on Sunday, 20 July 2025, 02:50 PMAfter weeks of wet, or frost/ice, or work related obstacles, and finishing some outside jobs today, the bike Gods aligned and I managed to get a ride in. Only 40kms, but a ride nonetheless.
Didn't really enjoy it, due to lichen on the road in shady areas and tractor-dropped mud all over the shop. Really need a few dry days, rather than one, I suspect.
Road conditions the same in Waikato yesterday Rob. Plenty of manure on the road at farmers cattle crossings.
Brisbane to Armidale in cool but clear weather via Kyogle Grafton and Gibraltar Range 10 degrees now and dropping.
Well done Chris. Armidale very cold, i slept there one time -6 degrees. Highest city in Oz. Great steaks but overpriced.
We rode to Tenterfield Saturday in pouring rain and 7deg c 🥶🥶🏍�🏍�💦💦
Bowls club was warm and welcoming new Chinese restaurant is truly old school, big serves and tasty fresh food.
Karaoke was very entertaining 😂😂😂
We got robbed in the rugby 🏉 🙄🙄😈😈.
Riding back to Brisbane today probably on the highway to avoid all the rain run off on the scenic roads, we're 1km above sea level in Tenterfield.
7° Luxury !!
Back home now to a balmy 20deg C.
Travelled on some back roads via Legume skirting around Warwick, spectacular views from Cunninghams Gap, Boonah for lunch then home.
Three days of riding 1051kms door to door.
Not today but yesterday, went to the annual Calne bike meet. Must have been 5000 bikes there, just one shower at about 11 o'clock then it was quite warm. Calne is a small town but it was rammed with people of all ages and persuasions, shit loads of kids and dogs. Saw a few 14's, anyone from here?
Just had a search Mick, they expected 10 thou bikes. Thats hard for an Aussie to imagine. We get 300 on a Xmas run and think its huge.
Could well have been well over 5000 bikes, they come and go all day long so the total could well be 10k. I think it's the biggest free bike meet in the UK, possibly the biggest in Europe.
Cassington bike night might have you there mick-j, is held on last Monday in June. Tiny little village in Oxfordshire, this year an estimated 7000 bikes ,10,000 visitors. The place was rammed.
So glad we did Christmas in July last weekend. They're forecasting snow flurries in the ranges we rode through and places we stayed. ❄️❄️❄️☃️☃️☃️
https://www.weatherarmidale.com/guyrasnow.htm
Snow in Guyra today ☃️☃️☃️❄️❄️❄️
https://www.weatherzone.com.au/news/heavy-snow-blankets-nsw-northern-tablelands/1890774
More recent 🙄🙄
Hope it's not too cold for the crocs....
Great day out on the scoota. Cloudless day 8° so headed off with the bride to do our Te Aroha loop.
Left home about 10am, over the Kaimai Range, along the Old Te Aroha Road to you guessed it Te Aroha. From there to Paeroa for lunch at The Refinery (old gold bullion refinery built in 1914) a busy café with good food and coffee. Had look through a couple of antique shops and around some back streets, people here are moving out from the central cities to some of the older rural towns, good buying to be had along with bigger sections.
Heading home we went through the Karangahake Gorge, plenty of water about, I should have stopped and taken a photo... but I didnt. Through Katikati past Omokoroa and home 195kms later by 3.00pm.
Lit the fire looks like it could be 0° tonight. Quite a few bikes out enjoying the fine weather. Great way to spend Sunday.
:cheers:
Sounds awesome Col not sure we'd cope with that temperature though ❄️❄️❄️☃️☃️☃️🙏
:wife: Wifey gets cold hands and I never stop hearing about how it's ok for me with my poncy heated handlebars !!
Probably time to get her some heated gloves.... to go with her poncy heated vest !!
Then she'll have cold arms. Get her a poncy heated jacket & she'll find her hands aren't as cold.
Bobbie swears by her Macna battery powered heated gloves.
She claims she doesn't get cold whilst sitting behind me on the arms or body. :cheers: I'm a bit of a windjammer for her 👀
Fair point Hooli. She does have a heated sweatshirt but says it's bulky under her jacket. I'm not brave enough to mention that maybe her jacket shrunk ??
Thanks for the link Chris I think they would be a great idea. I like that Macna gear, same as her jacket....that shrunk !
I just know I've found since I've got a poncy heated jacket that my hands stay warmer cause my arms aren't cold.
I just don't ride in the cold, easy fix . . .
I just live where it doesn't get cold, easy fix
What a beautiful day!
Warm, dry, empty roads and the bike's going great.
Early retirement isn't too bad !
Not bad for a weekday in Winter.
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Winter !!!
Nice roads BTW.
D.D.
Over lots of the south downs, many of them single track slightly gravely, some A roads and many caravans, no speed above 50 mph as following a friend running in his Triumph 660 adventure
Making regular visits to Cambridge to see Dad. Today I got off State Highway 1 taking a back road along Lake Karapiro into the back of Cambridge. It's 3kms longer, the scenery is great the road is winding and the surface first class.
Happy ride :boogie:
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That looks pretty fair for winter.
No ride for me this week, a friend has called me to shelve our plan - it's just too hot at the moment and there's no point in putting up with the discomfort if it can wait.
The GSX is at the front of the garage, awaiting its turn.
Cafe Valletta in Toowoomba via MaMa creek and the Devils Spine (so much nicer riding up) 😈
Started off at 12 deg C warmed up to 23 deg, clearest blue sky welcome to winter in South East Queensland 👍👍❤️❤️
Good on ya Chris, you're always out & about. :onya: :cheers:
Lovely Winters day,we went up into the clouds.Totally enjoy my backyard😎
Very tidy unit Grog, credit to ya.
Thanks Col, i like to look after her. Gets harder as things get done. Next few plans, polished clutch cover, polished fork legs. Id like polished swing arm and peg hangers, will happen. I also want a black tail piece & black tank. Then can swap between colours, fast and slow, no idea which is which.If black is faster must be worth getting.
Nowhere ...... and not until next year - Back surgery is working out as predicted and Sturgeon has banned me from riding for 6 months! Grrrrr.
Ah well! ....next year will be an event! I can't even work on my bikes and MGs, bending over is a no go! I'm vicariously riding with you guys!
Quote from: Globalrider on Saturday, 23 August 2025, 07:11 AMNowhere ...... and not until next year - Back surgery is working out as predicted and Sturgeon has banned me from riding for 6 months! Grrrrr.
Ah well! ....next year will be an event! I can't even work on my bikes and MGs, bending over is a no go! I'm vicariously riding with you guys!
All the best with the recovery. Keep looking forward to riding that bike in 2026!
We rode to Kenilworth today for brunch at McGinns had a great turnout 😁😁
Quote from: Globalrider on Saturday, 23 August 2025, 07:11 AMNowhere ...... and not until next year - Back surgery is working out as predicted and Sturgeon has banned me from riding for 6 months! Grrrrr.
Ah well! ....next year will be an event! I can't even work on my bikes and MGs, bending over is a no go! I'm vicariously riding with you guys!
Any back surgeries are difficult however if there is pain relief it's a bonus. I've met several people who've had successful spinal fusions with a small lack of flexibility but do need to be cautious when engaging with spinal movements.
Good luck with your recovery 🙏🙏🙏
Vicariously riding ? That's a new one 🧐🧐
Went out for a hour's ride this afternoon around the local area. Must be something in the water, or sunshine and 16C has made folk daft, but I encountered a greater number of blind, stupid drivers than usual.
On two occasions oncoming cars overtook recumbent bicycles and forced me to the left of my lane...riding a large white bike with headlight on, and wearing a white helmet and yellow hi viz vest, made me invisible.
Despite the road morons, it felt fantastic to be riding in the sunshine after weeks of grim weather :boogie2:
I did a 2½ hour run on the Rocket, just around the local environs, down past Charleston towards Fox river then did a U turn (traffic was ruining it) & headed to Mokihinui & Karamea way. Went up the hill a bit, took a couple of snaps & headed back to Seddonville, pub was closed so came back home. Nice round trip, think it was about 180 odd k's. Gave her a bit of a run into the 200's on the way back, huge grin factor. It's just sooo easy to do.
Half way up the hill heading towards Karamea
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Seddonville Pub
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The run on Google Maps:
Todays run.JPG
Pub shut on a Sunday ? Sacrilege 🤣
Quote from: GSXKING on Sunday, 24 August 2025, 06:09 PMPub shut on a Sunday ? Sacrilege 🤣
Wouldn't happen in Straya :sinbin:
Quote from: GSXKING on Sunday, 24 August 2025, 06:09 PMPub shut on a Sunday ? Sacrilege 🤣
I know of a pub only open Sun-Thurs!
They got fed up with a rambler's pub crawl, it's a few miles over the moors to the next pub) so don't open anymore :lol:
I must get up there one day when off work as it looks great.
I had a 5 day weekend, so trundled off on the tractor to see Hadrian's Wall as I've never actually bothered before. Came back a day early as camping on cold nights is for the young, but walked a couple of mile of the wall & saw two Roman camps.
I'll put some pics up later when I've got around to shrinking them.
My uncle Sean was a history lecturer at Manchester Uni so he and I have spent time on the Roman walls and mini coliseum there. I'd like to see Hadrians wall. There are gates in Athens called Hadrians I'd guess it's the same General then Emperor who visited every place the Romans attempted to subjugate.
Right I've shrunk some pics for you guys.
The way up including a rather nice pub that serves Theakson's Old Peculiar from the wooden barrel.
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Postman Pat land on the way up (Yorkshire Dales)
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The River Wharf is rather low currently, I was stood in the middle of the river bed to take this
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Vindolanda Roman Fort, where thousands of wooden tablets have been discovered. They are the approx size & thickness of a postcard and unique in the Uk, possibly europe
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Next the Temple of Mithras near the wall, with bonus Kiwi porn
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Then the Wall, I only walked from milecastle 41 to 42. Plus a few miles from & back to the campsite via a pub so about 5miles in total but it's bloody steep as the steps in places show.
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One they way home I did the centre of Britain & lots of small roads over County Durham & back through North Yorkshire.
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Quote from: Hooli on Tuesday, 26 August 2025, 08:17 PMNext the Temple of Mithras near the wall, with bonus Kiwi porn
Ewes have no idea....
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Kiwi escort agency :onya:
Thanks for the pics and report @Hooli you guys are so close to so much history.
Who built Hadrian's wall and why?
Hadrian's Wall was built by the Roman army on the orders of Emperor Hadrian, following his visit to Britain in 122 AD. The wall was constructed to demarcate the northern frontier of the Roman province of Britannia and to control the movement of people and goods, as well as to act as a deterrent against potential incursions from tribes to the north.
A testament to how well built Roman engineering was. The walls in Chester are made of stones the size of the stones used in the construction of the pyramids.
My outlaws used to live in a house built right next to Hadrian's wall and they had a roman well in their garden, still had to pay water rates though.
My old cottage had a cesspit & guttering ran to a soakaway in the garden. Water rates were cheap as we only paid for the supply, about the only cheap thing about the place.
Mt.Mee today a little later than normal for lunch at Birches Restaurant to celebrate my 65th birthday with great friends and awesome food.
The wind didn't assist so the ride was less than pleasant 🧐
Happy birthday Chris, many more to come I'm sure
Happy birthday young chap. Looks like we share the same curved jersey brand . . . :rofl2:
Quote from: KiwiCol on Saturday, 30 August 2025, 10:11 PMHappy birthday young chap. Looks like we share the same curved jersey brand . . . :rofl2:
Just like mother earth, a perfect oblate spheroid :stir: :lol:
Happy birthday Chris. :clapping:
Happy birthday Chris.
Ignore the barbed comment about the curved jersey, that's just the distortion you get with wide angle lenses.
Bugger, that's not what I meant...it's just what happens when the camera operator moves back so they can get the subject in frame.
Bugger, that's not what I meant either...
My hoped-for career in international diplomacy seems to be slipping away!
Bobbies still feeding you then.... :stir:
hope you had a wonderful birthday fella :cheers:
She said "suck your gut in" I said whilst holding my breath "it is" everyone laughed out loud :cheers:
Thank you all for your well wishes, I truly appreciate this community, some of whom I've had the pleasure of meeting personally. Others I feel a connection with over so many years of commenting through this portal. A big thanks to Vlad for his continued support of the ORG.
Quote from: Pommeroy on Sunday, 31 August 2025, 04:46 AMHappy birthday Chris.
Ignore the barbed comment about the curved jersey, that's just the distortion you get with wide angle lenses.
Bugger, that's not what I meant...it's just what happens when the camera operator moves back so they can get the subject in frame.
Bugger, that's not what I meant either...
My hoped-for career in international diplomacy seems to be slipping away!
:facepalm: Roy I think The Trump team are looking for a guy with your talent 😎
260km round trip through the Perth Hills with the BMW club, starting in Vic Park on a rather chilly morning,saw 5.2deg on the onboard temp gauge. Headed down via the industrial areas of Rockingham and Kwinana to end up at the beach, beautiful part of the coast, a slow run hugging the coast, then a bit of traffic down to Miami Bakehouse in Falcon. Beautiful weather and a great selection of bikes, a rather nice set of R1100's, two RNineT's and Ted, our 91 year (!) young on his new (to him) Honda Shadow.
We attended the Brisbane portion of many rides held across Australia and NZ it was mainly Harley's but all makes are welcome it was well organised and the only Harley's to fall over were on a steep off camber damp turn on Mt. Nebo 😳
Final meeting spot was Kenilworth Bakery @ Samford Village it's just like going to Kenilworth 🥇🥇
I'm getting to ride more recently.
Was out on these 3 last week.
I just love those 1340 motors!
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(https://i.ibb.co/SXH8YByD/IMG-3452.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6RGx9Fwc)
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Going to need tyres soon, Gen-3 will get S23's unless I get a smoking deal of S22's.
I have a spare pair of (the same fitment) Gen-2 / B-King wheels with discs so 2 bikes and 3 pairs of wheels, spare wheels do have near new Angel GT2's but I might just bite the bullet and get some 22's / 23's put on them instead.
I wouldn't mind some spare Gen-3 wheels to do in a matching gold.
Still watching bike sales, 14's and other big Suzuki's but nothings really taken my eye at the right price recently.
I really should be doing more on the projects (junk) I have, but I'm easily distracted.
Picked up a little cash bonus and next weeks weather is looking OK so more rides planned for next week again. Last ride before the Gen-3 gets a service. I like having one bike I don't spanner, even though it is out of warranty now.
well done Tony, awesome machines you've got.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Thursday, 25 September 2025, 03:33 PMwell done Tony, awesome machines you've got.
Thanks. I have a few that go OK, but the non runners, junk, projects and those needing work far out number them.
It gives me something to do and keeps me out of the wife's way.
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We met At Samford and rode up to Mt.Glorious then over the top to the T intersection. Split yard Creek to Fernvale, Pine Mountain then Race and Road Rocklea for their 6th birthday celebration.
Home just in time to watch Brisbane Lions take on Geelong Cats in AFL Grand Final hopefully a Lions 🦁 win 🤞🤞
Lions 🦁 annihilated Geelong Cats just for the record 🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
Yeah Chris, a proud moment, unreal game, shamed those Vicos. :boogie:
:cheers:
Was at the store where I bought my Fergie from, spotted a tank outside the museum opposite, so went back today on the Gen-2 to get a pic.
Beautiful Monday morning. I'm liking the early Gen-2 more than I thought I would. A much better bike than the Gen-1, like a 14 it's pretty low tech and basic compared to a Gen-3, lighter and nicer feel brakes than later Gen-2's. Cost me half or less than other bikes but not lacking the slightest bit of performance or fun.
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Quote from: grog on Saturday, 27 September 2025, 06:36 PMYeah Chris, a proud moment, unreal game, shamed those Vicos. :boogie:
I don't normally follow much footy but the wife put it on so I gave it a look. My stepson went all though school with Harris Andrews and it was good to see him do well. He's a really nice young bloke and absolutely deserves it, so pleased for him. Great to see him on stage being the gentleman that he is.
Well, not quite today, this was a few weeks back...
Having got the old girl back on the road after a while I thought I'd scrub the new tyres in. I live in Chester, UK, I headed down the A41, A49 to Leominster, along the A44 to Crossgates then the A482 (fantastic road!) back to Newtown, Welshpool and head home, only I didn't quite make it...
Just before Crossgates I had a what appeared to be a fuel starvation issue, fuel gauge showing 2 bars but the bike acted as though it had run out of fuel. Bike came to halt, managed to push it to a side road, gave it a good coat of looking at but the gauge showed 2 bars, 3 on the side stand. She would start but as soon as you put any throttle on she died. This was about 13:30. I called the AA (UK recovery service) and eventually spoke to a human (there's another story...) they sent out a recovery vehicle. The recovery chap had a look and concurred she was broken. He was a contractor so only recovered me to the Tesco car park at Newtown. He said another recovery vehicle would turn up and take me home, this is now roughly 17:00... I kept getting text messages from the AA putting the recovery (or so I thought...) back. About 18:00 I got a call from another mechanic asking where I was as he couldn't find me on the A44 (he had the initial location, FFS!). I said I'd been recovered to Newtown and was waiting recovery home. He said the job he and was to do the initial assessment before I could be recovered. I explained again and he said he would be in touch with his control. After another hour I called the AA again (mobile battery now getting low), after 40 minutes (I shit you not!) on hold I got to another human, they explained that the first recovery was just that and I would need assessing before recovery. I expressed my disappointment at this... I then waited for the mechanic to turn up but after another hour or so, about 20:00 I had had enough, if i waited it was going to be another few hours before I got home I though that the bike had run OK with a full tank so luckily there was a petrol station at the Tesco, I brimmed the tank, she started and ran, I had a few laps of the carpark just to check and had a word with myself in my lid saying that this was a daft thing to do, if she stopped again it would be dark and I would be in the middle of Wales calling the AA again. Luckily she ran all the way home, 60 miles, and the fuel gauge didn't budge.
So it's tank off and look at the sender I think!
Yep, if she's been sat for a while with low fuel, the sender can pack a sad & read incorrectly (ask me how I know . . .) I took my sender out & put it through an ultrasonic clean, (dried it off) & she works 100% again. It came up like new.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Saturday, 04 October 2025, 09:35 AMYep, if she's been sat for a while with low fuel, the sender can pack a sad & read incorrectly (ask me how I know . . .) I took my sender out & put it through an ultrasonic clean, (dried it off) & she works 100% again. It came up like new.
Col, thanks for the information, I do suspect the sender needs a bit of fettling! :facepalm:
Did you notice how much you put in to fill her up? that'll tell you if the sender is lying or not. Although it does sound a likely issue.
Just another 80km each way trip over to Cambridge to check on the elderly.
The Kaimai Range has had plenty of rain lately, today it was warm and dry with bugger all traffic and a clean road so enjoyed the shuffle up the hill.
Love that torque :smitten:
Yesterday we're heading for breakfast in Kyogle but due to the heat we diverted to "The Shed" just outside Rathdowney, this place has fairdinkum wholesome food cooked on the premises by a passionate chef/cook she calls herself.
Tasty delicious and filling are a few of the words that springs to mind.
We were having a wonderful day out.
On the way home my 2015 BMW RT clocked up 200,000KMS.
Yesterday saw the first proper run on the GSX since I replaced the plugs and air filter; all seems well.
I fancied a run around the Peak District, but as ever the West Midlands conurbation stood in my way. As I often do, I just used the motorway up to Stafford – it's the first hour of the ride spoiled, but better than urban riding.
Route.jpg
Once up into the Staffordshire moorlands I started to enjoy myself and the sun even showed its face. I had a run along the Cat & Fiddle Pass and then dropped down into the Goyt Valley before pointing the front wheel south again. Probably around 170 miles all in and always a pleasure to be on the GSX.
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Well rode to the Arlington showground in Sussex, small bike show going on
https://youtu.be/7wosvwx9q-w?si=TkNCpffqQ8Hc-iwp
https://youtu.be/GNom-3PA6aI?si=ru9lzDaY-mL8Z2tj
No great adventure but roads that kept me varying my speed, revs and gears without being held at a constant highway pace.
110K / 68 miles round trip of half bitumen - half gravel roads to get my morning coffee.
The bike's too tall, too slow, too loud and too uncomfortable....
I love it !
(https://i.ibb.co/MkfMHgH3/IMG-3664.jpg) (https://ibb.co/GQ9cDdDb)
(https://i.ibb.co/CKNfQdTk/IMG-3666.jpg) (https://ibb.co/TMpstXFV)
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Got a knee down on it yet Tony? :stir: :whistling:
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 12:53 PMGot a knee down on it yet Tony? :stir: :whistling:
needs his toes to touch the ground first...
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 12:53 PMGot a knee down on it yet Tony? :stir: :whistling:
I have a feeling that getting my knee down will be closely followed by my elbow, hands, head, handlebars, mirrors and various other extremities! I'm sure it'll happen one day.
At the moment riding is OK, but I'm working hard at trying to not look like a 17 year old on his first bike when I park up... 🤣.
(Pretty much like me on any bike)
As I mentioned somewhere, I've been thinking about getting another dirt bike. Had them years ago, had so much fun on them. But, I'm sooo much older now, more unfit and waaay heavier. The thought & the inclination is there, but then I sorta come back to reality, I aint gonna bounce like I used to and on those things, off road, you're gonna come off for certain. Think I should just stick to the memories & use the quad if I wanna go off roading. Seeing you guys on here with them fed the fire I guess, ya lucky buggers! :cheers:
Yeah Col, memories best option as me. Bultaco that could flog anyone, Yamaha trials bike TY? Could wheelstand forever. Were great days.
Got me thinking too, rode a mates KTM250 i think it was, loud, uncomfortable and so fast on the dirt tracks
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 07:00 PMAs I mentioned somewhere, I've been thinking about getting another dirt bike. Had them years ago, had so much fun on them. But, I'm sooo much older now, more unfit and waaay heavier. The thought & the inclination is there, but then I sorta come back to reality, I aint gonna bounce like I used to and on those things, off road, you're gonna come off for certain. Think I should just stick to the memories & use the quad if I wanna go off roading. Seeing you guys on here with them fed the fire I guess, ya lucky buggers! :cheers:
Sounds like you need a dirtbike to help you work on fitness and weight loss?
I haven't actually been back on any of my bikes since having a decent off back at the start of April. I should be done with physio in a couple of weeks and plan to go for a quick lap to celebrate. It remains to be seen how 3 months off work, a few weeks in a cervical collar 24/7, 3 x fused vertebrae, a plate with 12 x screws in my wrist, a few other minor fractures and the loss of my thoroughly kitted out Husqvarna 701 impact my riding habits...
see what I'm missing out on . . .
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 09:08 PMsee what I'm missing out on . . .
Pain proves you're still alive :lol:
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 07:00 PMAs I mentioned somewhere, I've been thinking about getting another dirt bike. Had them years ago, had so much fun on them. But, I'm sooo much older now, more unfit and waaay heavier. The thought & the inclination is there, but then I sorta come back to reality, I aint gonna bounce like I used to and on those things, off road, you're gonna come off for certain. Think I should just stick to the memories & use the quad if I wanna go off roading. Seeing you guys on here with them fed the fire I guess, ya lucky buggers! :cheers:
It was actually my Mrs who told me to go and buy one. I was unsure. She said "You aren't going to get any fitter or stronger or better suited in the future, do it now" She reminded me that my parents saved up for their retirement but left it too late now can't do much due to their age and health.
We made our wills not long back.
The Busa's and Park Runs didn't finish me off, or my bad heart or the snakes here, I think this may be her next plan!
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 10:27 PMQuote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 07:00 PMAs I mentioned somewhere, I've been thinking about getting another dirt bike. Had them years ago, had so much fun on them. But, I'm sooo much older now, more unfit and waaay heavier. The thought & the inclination is there, but then I sorta come back to reality, I aint gonna bounce like I used to and on those things, off road, you're gonna come off for certain. Think I should just stick to the memories & use the quad if I wanna go off roading. Seeing you guys on here with them fed the fire I guess, ya lucky buggers! :cheers:
It was actually my Mrs who told me to go and buy one. I was unsure. She said "You aren't going to get any fitter or stronger or better suited in the future, do it now" She reminded me that my parents saved up for their retirement but left it too late now can't do much due to their age and health.
We made our wills not long back.
The Busa's and Park Runs didn't finish me off, or my bad heart or the snakes here, I think this may be her next plan!
It's a cunning plan...you could fall off, or get hopelessly lost, or hit a roo, or get bitten by something venomous while taking a photo, or be cleared up by a dozy road train driver, or squished by a falling gum tree branch, or...the list goes on.
Nonetheless, enjoy every minute of the new adventures :cheers:
116k's / 72 miles round trip for this mornings coffee.
(https://i.ibb.co/zHSwMBHK/IMG-3700.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7NGFfZN7)
(https://i.ibb.co/ZpHX7KDh/IMG-3701.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FLs3CJTB)
Put the bike away now for the weekend.
Much prefer weekday rides.
Less traffic, cops, tourists etc.
They Jacaranda's flowering in the background Tony ? Not a bad display whatever they are.
Quote from: Kiwifruit on Friday, 17 October 2025, 02:53 PMThey Jacaranda's flowering in the background Tony ? Not a bad display whatever they are.
Yeah, huge difference from where I am. Mine, the neighbours and the local town are all pretty bare. Just a few new shoots and no flowers at all.
Head down the range, only 50k's or so and they are all out in flower with heaps of colour. In bloom everywhere.
I have half a dozen large ones and half a dozen smaller, if you don't walk up close you wouldn't know they were Jacaranda, or even alive.
This afternoon I was riding a ride on lawn mower. Never used one before, but was asked if I could cut the grass while step son is away. Hmmm, yeah ok. Going alright for a while, then made an error stopping before a 7' drop off an embankment, so over I go!!
It was ok on the way down, just the bit at the bottom caused a bit of grief. Mower nosed in, I fly over & land on me side, the mower falls on top of me! Get myself out but I'm hurt. I can't get up. Mrs comes down to help & I get standing. Mowers a mess, battery hanging out, front wheels pointing in different directions, engine cover smashed & ripped off. I'm covered in mud head to toe, glasses bent up & laying 6 feet away, cause my head hit hard.
Adrenaline must of kicked in cause I managed to right the mower & drag it towards the edge of the grass. A couple of workers on site came & gave us a hand to get the mower back up on the bank, else it would have gone under water when the tide came in.
I'm pretty sore now though, the right hand is swollen & muscles across my chest are very sore. Nowt broken, just strains & sprains, says doc kiwicol. And it's my throttle hand too, oh well, we got 7 days of heavy rain predicted, so probably not missing anything. Hope I can still mount the discs on Monday, dunno how I'll go with the front axle nut though.
Beer oclock I reckon, even opening a can is a struggle . . . oh yeah, I'm home alone, Mrs is housesitting & grandkid minding, so gotta fend for myself.
Sounds like somewhat of a lucky escape.
I've had the pleasure of doing something similar. We used to live on acreage with a steep section. I was mowing whilst home alone and rolled the ride on down the hill. Dislocated my shoulder, damaged the engine cowl and spilled my bloody beer!
Far out Col, not at all good. Nothing broken a bonus. We get injured out of the blue, as they say, shit happens. Get well soon.
Sounds a bit extreme just to avoid mowing the lawn Col
Sorry to hear that Col. Hope you recover quickly.
Because you hit your head hard, watch out for concussion symptoms. If they occur, don't ignore them. See your GP, and ask to be referred to a concussion service.
It's taken me two years to come right after a concussion caused by, on its face, a relatively minor incident. Specialist input early on was invaluable.
"She'll be right" isn't always the way to go!
Hope you recover fully and soon Col.
Has it put you off buying a Harley ?
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 07:00 PMAs I mentioned somewhere, I've been thinking about getting another dirt bike. Had them years ago, had so much fun on them. But, I'm sooo much older now, more unfit and waaay heavier. The thought & the inclination is there, but then I sorta come back to reality, I aint gonna bounce like I used to and on those things, off road, you're gonna come off for certain. Think I should just stick to the memories & use the quad if I wanna go off roading. Seeing you guys on here with them fed the fire I guess, ya lucky buggers! :cheers:
Col not to mention the seat design on most modern dirt bikes would give most of us a "wedgie" not unlike a colonoscopy 🤣🤣🤣
Quote from: Boa on Saturday, 18 October 2025, 06:22 AMHope you recover fully and soon Col.
Has it put you off buying a Harley ?
Yes definitely.
Thanks guys, pretty rough night. Right hand is still swelling with bruising covering the palm area. Not broken as I can move all the pinkies, just tissue damage I'd say. I'm wearing a wrist splint that I already had & that seems to help because it restricts movement.
Hope to be good to go again in a few days. Got notice the new discs are with the local carrier now, so Monday is the day - if the hand is a lot better by then.
Get well soon Col, I really want to take the piss for falling off a mower but I can't bring myself to do it. :facepalm:
First ride since June on the old girl. Took her through the city to watch a historic car rally (30c and warm, summer has started early) and then back through the hills. Fresh oil and filter change the day before, trying full synthetic for the first time. So far so good:)
You're not alone Col. First run on our new ride on some years ago I stuck it down a bank and through a 5 wire fence. I got rescued by some orchard workers who watched my faux pas.
Hope you're feeling a lot better by now.
Today just a coast return trip to pick up mower belt, turned out wrong. Lovely riding day around 29 degrees(85f). Those Tesla Y sure can move along.
Quote from: Boa on Saturday, 18 October 2025, 06:22 AMHas it put you off buying a Harley ?
Oi!
A HD would have been fine, the weight of the plough keeps them stable :lol:
Went to see my brother in law. 110K's / 68 mile round trip of mostly dirt and gravel. Up through the pine forest, gravel roads down the range, steeper gravel roads back up.
(https://i.ibb.co/G4b9HM2J/IMG-3774.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PvfMDWhY)
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That's my riding week over. Will give the bike a quick wipe over and put it away until Monday.
Meanwhile, the GenII 'Busa sits forlornly in a dark corner of the garage wondering why Master is now spending all his time on that yellow contraption....
After weeks of rain almost every day, today was sunny...decided to ride to local cafe and back (just 30kms) for lunch, on a day off.
Returning home through the village, I noticed an SUV pointing out of a driveway...it had tinted side windows, so I couldn't see if anyone was in it. I assumed it did and it may pull out, so I slowed to 50km/h (limit is 70).
Bugger me, as I got close it pulled across my lane. I saw its wheels rotate, so I braked as hard as possible and stopped a few metres from the vehicle. Driver reversed back into driveway and I rolled forward to see better.
Driver with kid in front passenger seat, driver looked vacant/gormless. After I told her to use her eyes, I pootled home trying to get rid of the adrenaline.
I ride with headlight on, a white helmet and yellow hi viz, and I saw the SUV from 100m away...honestly, what more can we do?
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Friday, 24 October 2025, 01:55 PMMeanwhile, the GenII 'Busa sits forlornly in a dark corner of the garage wondering why Master is now spending all his time on that yellow contraption....
Yeah, I did think that.
I'll go over the others I use, tyre psi, chain, oil, fuel etc next week and try and use them if the weathers OK. Mrs is home next week so she will mind Rufus the Demolition Dingo.
I nearly bought another cheap bike yesterday but talked myself out of it. :whistling: Didn't really need a 650 Freewind ! Although.........
Scary moment for you Rob. I'm a wheel watcher too. Some drivers are just plain dumb.
Id forgotten about this little incident on my ride home from the Auckland Bike Show last Saturday. I'm on the expressway heading home, speed limit is 110kph. Most of the traffic in the outside lane is doing 120 plus. I'm following a car doing 120, drops to 100 then back up to 120 then back down again. I move left and now alongside said car. Tart sitting there texting with both hands on the phone and a knee doing the steering. I think she shit herself when I hit the horns and nutted off so everyone around us got that she was on her phone. I love my series 5 BMW horns.
Last evening I was having a drink with a friend who lost his brother a month ago on the Putty Road. He was hit head on by another motorcyclist, he was in the left lane with a passing lane on his right. So the bloke that hit him had crossed the centre line and the passing lane and then into the left lane.
So sad, sometimes it's just wrong time wrong place. We all place our trust in others to be alert, focused and competent, it's incredible how many are not.
I agree Colin...sometimes it is just a simple as being there when someone does something stupid.
That random speeding up and slowing down, along with drifting left and right, is a giveaway that the driver is using their phone.
Only 25km and on the wife's noisy red one, but it's my first ride 204 days post accident. A couple of slightly nervous moments over some sharp bumps that tested the wrist and spinal hardware. I'm still walking though so it must have been ok.
I'm on leave this week and hoping to get out at least every second day.
Did you suffer much muscle degradation during your recovery ? :confused1:
Sure did. I dropped to 102kg (8kg loss) during the initial recovery. I've been up at 4AM everyday since I started physio and hand therapy and am back where I started now though.
I received clearance for full work duties on Friday afternoon and will be switching towards normal fitness focused exercise starting tomorrow. I'm definitely not at 100% yet though so I'll be easing into it and aiming to drop a few kg initially.
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 26 October 2025, 09:48 AMSure did. I dropped to 102kg (8kg loss) during the initial recovery. I've been up at 4AM everyday since I started physio and hand therapy and am back where I started now though.
I received clearance for full work duties on Friday afternoon and will be switching towards normal fitness focused exercise starting tomorrow. I'm definitely not at 100% yet though so I'll be easing into it and aiming to drop a few kg initially.
I hope we catch up sometime.
I went down 15 mile Road and came back up White Mountain Rd, I think Coppermine Rd was closed.
I'd love to pick your brains about DR's and local routes.
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Sunday, 26 October 2025, 03:40 PMI hope we catch up sometime.
I went down 15 mile Road and came back up White Mountain Rd, I think Coppermine Rd was closed.
I'd love to pick your brains about DR's and local routes.
I may head your direction later in the week for coffee and cake, or a pie. I'll give you a shout if I do and will do my best to bring the DR.
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 26 October 2025, 08:21 AMOnly 25km and on the wife's noisy red one, but it's my first ride 204 days post accident. A couple of slightly nervous moments over some sharp bumps that tested the wrist and spinal hardware. I'm still walking though so it must have been ok.
I'm on leave this week and hoping to get out at least every second day.
Are those things as fun as they look? they are the only Ducati I'd ever consider as they actually look & sound like a working bike. I suspect being Italian they'll fall apart if you attempt to ride them rather than pose outside coffee stops.
Quote from: Hooli on Sunday, 26 October 2025, 09:35 PMQuote from: lurch on Sunday, 26 October 2025, 08:21 AMOnly 25km and on the wife's noisy red one, but it's my first ride 204 days post accident. A couple of slightly nervous moments over some sharp bumps that tested the wrist and spinal hardware. I'm still walking though so it must have been ok.
I'm on leave this week and hoping to get out at least every second day.
Are those things as fun as they look? they are the only Ducati I'd ever consider as they actually look & sound like a working bike. I suspect being Italian they'll fall apart if you attempt to ride them rather than pose outside coffee stops.
It's a hoot to ride. Light, sounds great and fast enough. Maybe not the best fit for a 192cm rider but I've done 4hrs in the saddle and it was comfortable enough for what it is.
The air cooled L twin has been around forever as you're no doubt aware and has proven to be reliable and easy to live with. This one's only done 11,000km as she's been working full time and studying but she'll be done with that early next year.
Definitely Italian to work on but tolerable. All the standard Italian features including bolts made of fancy cheese. Stock suspension was quite average but it's got Andreani cartridges in the forks and a YSS shock now which has been a massive improvement.
My Mate traded his 1100 Monster for Scrambler. Never really understood that. He then traded yellow scrambler for another with 54 on it. Pretty sure it was left to me in his will but strangely was never contacted about it.Someone got it.Makes it easier than looking after a keeper that i never wanted anyway.
18 today !
A Friday breakfast run out on the King. Registered and ridden home 18 years ago today.
A pretty low build number / VIN. The old girl still go's OK.
(https://i.ibb.co/C31PLkjK/IMG-3839.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jP6JtcCk)
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As part of the proposal put to management regarding the addition of a more adventure orientated bike I just showed her the top photo of your shed Tony.... "how many arses does that fella have" was her response.
I think there's room for a little more fine tuning of my proposal :facepalm:
Did a South, East, North, West ride down the range and back up again this morning. Only 270K / 168 miles but mostly fun roads. I like different things about different bikes, but if I had to pick one it'd be this Gen-3.
(https://i.ibb.co/TzT8WJj/IMG-3889.jpg) (https://ibb.co/QscNDhS)
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Quote from: Kiwifruit on Friday, 31 October 2025, 04:55 PMAs part of the proposal put to management regarding the addition of a more adventure orientated bike I just showed her the top photo of your shed Tony.... "how many arses does that fella have" was her response.
I think there's room for a little more fine tuning of my proposal :facepalm:
Col, ask your wife how many pairs of knickers he has, if it's more than 2 (wear one, wash one) then she has no argument. Works for me. :lol:
Cafe Valletta in Toowoomba this morning for breakfast.
Met at Goodna 7:00am and took the highway to Helidon, then up Silver Pinch Road. Spectacular views today with low humidity and 25deg temperature. Home via Hampton and Esk then round the dam to MtG, uninterrupted run over to The Gap. City was in gridlock for whatever reason.
380kms door to door today.
Old Pacific Highway north of Sydney, fantastic 50-60 and 70kph zones.
Bike is running prefect after its 7.5 year storage even on 91 octane with 10% ethanol.
1000 k's since restart.
:)
I remember when you left Oz & went to Ireland. God was that 7.5 years ago? Bloody hell, time just flies.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Sunday, 09 November 2025, 04:17 PMI remember when you left Oz & went to Ireland. God was that 7.5 years ago? Bloody hell, time just flies.
I was only going for 2 years lol.
It's only a hunch, but I suspect that once again a cafe cooking my breakfast and making my coffee from memory, without me placing an order may have a connection to the fact my jeans and bike leathers are getting a little bit snug around the waist !
(https://i.ibb.co/nM1YgyMk/IMG-3951.jpg) (https://ibb.co/s91Nm493)
Still trying to decide what to do with this one. It was bought to take to the drags, it's a little more aggressive than the Gen-3 but it's only a toy and I think I'd be happy with the 3 for the road and this one for the strip if I ever get a bike trailer. Having it gathering dust would be less on my mind if I wasn't paying rego etc.
(https://i.ibb.co/v414FZQY/IMG-3954.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ZzdzjWYm)
126K's / 78 miles round trip to get a pepper steak pie for breakfast.
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I only have the 1400 on the road at the moment, went on a weekly VJMC meet, though you may like these.kat.jpg
jaffa.jpg
Better put a couple of two strokes in.
H1 2.jpg
Quote from: Irish in Oz on Sunday, 16 November 2025, 07:37 AMI only have the 1400 on the road at the moment, went on a weekly VJMC meet, though you may like these.kat.jpg
jaffa.jpg
They all look to be in fine fettle considering their age Geoff. 😳
Just about every Thursday a few of us mates meet up at Pickering Brook in the hills of Perth WA
There can be any number from 100 to less that rock up for breakfast / coffee or just a show, look & chat. Some beautiful mix of bikes. Just a few here
They all look to be in fine fettle considering their age Geoff. 😳
[/quote]
Full nut and bolt rebuilds mate.
Which your choice Irish? Have owned most in pics, unfortunately no Vincent. Mongrel hard to get on with, chews fuel, doesnt stop, doesnt handle, blows clouds, tiny powerband, would love that H1 in my shed. I didnt have early model but did 1972. Chambers, ported, 550 Suzi pistons, crazy bike. 1500 rpm powerband, over rev and blew flames out exhaust. My Mate rode it, reckoned i tried to kill him.
Another 124K's round trip for my morning coffee, totals up to 630K's now. Found 2 new dirt roads to cut out more bitumen.
(https://i.ibb.co/nqYmFBL6/IMG-4017.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Q7TQ4kKp)
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Quote from: Irish in Oz on Sunday, 16 November 2025, 07:37 AMkat.jpg
The best engine swap.
A lot of engine swaps look a bit odd in Kats. The oilcooled GSXR11's and Bandit 12's work really well but they are smaller / shorter in length lumps. Folk end up with gaps behind the motor with the sprocket further forward or need to extend the pipes at the head to clear the frame.
The 1135E is a great and popular replacement. A bigger cc engine, 36mm carbs, a few other differences. Not only does it fit and work well in a Kat but it's still the basis for the worlds fastest Pro-Stock bikes today. There's never been a better aircooled brute.
The engine came out of one of these..
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The running gear looks like later GSXR750 same as my old GSXR1100 now has. The "Kat" parts are frame, fairing, tank and seat unit, the bits that really give it its identity whatever else you change.
I really like it. I'd love one like that.
@Grog
I like the H1 as well. My old mate has all the 500's he just handed them over to his son that's his H2 in background.
I'm not into Z900 that much rode plenty of them, but I do have a Kawasaki 900 below.
Had a Katana got rid of it, but I like that one.
900A1.jpg
100 mile round trip for breakfast, at the Station Cafe in Craven arms Shropshire. :grin: :clapping:
204K's / 127 miles round trip to go and get a pepper steak pie for breakfast.
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Just round the block for me, big block though . . . about 3½ hours & 250 odd k's.
Westport / Taylorville / Reefton / Westport
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Just after Stillwater - needed to clean the visor again
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Berlins, Visor clean & water
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Berlins - looking back
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Just a quick blast on the Rocket eh Col ?
Warp speed ?
Weather looks great.
It was a year ago we were there it was a fantastic trip.
G'day to KiwiFruit Col also.
Nah, pretty much stuck to the speed limit, just the odd patch of exuberant throttle, it just needs to be done at times . . .
Had to road test the new jacket. Started with a quick 60km loop on the wife's little Scrambler. My back was feeling fine still when I got home so I decided to wheel the big girl out. Only 25km or so but that's the first time it's been out since mid-March. She ran like a top.
IMG_4474.jpeg
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 23 November 2025, 11:23 AMHad to road test the new jacket. Started with a quick 60km loop on the wife's little Scrambler. My back was feeling fine still when I got home so I decided to wheel the big girl out. Only 25km or so but that's the first time it's been out since mid-March. She ran like a top.
IMG_4474.jpeg
The layby on the T'bar side of Mt Kynoch ?
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 23 November 2025, 11:23 AMHad to road test the new jacket. Started with a quick 60km loop on the wife's little Scrambler. My back was feeling fine still when I got home so I decided to wheel the big girl out. Only 25km or so but that's the first time it's been out since mid-March. She ran like a top.
IMG_4474.jpeg
Far too clean :clapping:
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Sunday, 23 November 2025, 03:18 PMQuote from: lurch on Sunday, 23 November 2025, 11:23 AMHad to road test the new jacket. Started with a quick 60km loop on the wife's little Scrambler. My back was feeling fine still when I got home so I decided to wheel the big girl out. Only 25km or so but that's the first time it's been out since mid-March. She ran like a top.
IMG_4474.jpeg
The layby on the T'bar side of Mt Kynoch ?
Sure is
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Sunday, 23 November 2025, 03:18 PMQuote from: lurch on Sunday, 23 November 2025, 11:23 AMHad to road test the new jacket. Started with a quick 60km loop on the wife's little Scrambler. My back was feeling fine still when I got home so I decided to wheel the big girl out. Only 25km or so but that's the first time it's been out since mid-March. She ran like a top.
IMG_4474.jpeg
The layby on the T'bar side of Mt Kynoch ?
Shame, you are on the other side of the world. A meet with you, me and my mate, would make a rare photo opportunity.
Quote from: GSXKING on Thursday, 20 November 2025, 05:44 PMJust a quick blast on the Rocket eh Col ?
Warp speed ?
Weather looks great.
It was a year ago we were there it was a fantastic trip.
G'day to KiwiFruit Col also.
Where has that year gone Chris ?
Time for me to head south and see the grandies again....and a visit to Westport :cheers:
Today I took the bike for a run down to the Fox River market & back. Made it home just as the rain began, perfect timing. The bike is running great, the setup is how I want it & I've got power to the camera & phone so I'm not relying on a battery for them, they charge & record as I ride.
The Sykik tire pressure monitoring system I fitted works great too. It shows you tire pressure and temp for front & back, I find it real handy to be able to glance at a display & know if the tires are warm yet & what the pressure is. The Triumph version for the rocket is about $775, think the Sykik cost me less than $200 landed. Another disadvantage of the Triumph one is it's internal, so to fit them, the tire has to come off, to change a battery, the tire has to come off, not so with the Sykik. Last downfall of the Triumph ones is I'd have to cycle through the displays to find the pressure, dunno if they do temp as well.
All in all, a happy rider.
Damned gizmos!
I've gotten into the habit of checking my tyre pressures on both bikes a lot more regularly.
I bought a tyre puncture repair kit, including a small air compressor that doubles as a jump starter. It's lightweight and has a large led display 👍
My BMW monitors pressure but not temperature. I can usually assess the tyres preparedness for grip by the way the bike moves once cornering. 🙏
On TV today, re accidents.....30% of drivers have never checked their tyre pressures ever. :shocked:
In an accident,where the lad died, police reported his Car tyres were less than 50% inflated all round.
D.D.
Think Grog called me Inspector Gadget once cos of all the bits I have. I like information, on the bike & the route I'm doing. The camera records my ride, sometime I keep sections of the recording, other times not. If I've mucked up a corner or something, I can go back & look at what I did & how to fix it. Also good as a dash cam for wayward cages, it doesn't record my speedo though, shame, yeah right!
I have a puncture repair kit & a mini compressor that also doubles as a jump starter, torch & USB powerbank. Same digital gauge & it stops at the pressure you set it to. Probably the same one as you have Chris. It's small enough it fits in the tail pack bag behind me. Another great piece of kit.
Just looking at the front tire, maybe I'm going to have to put a new one on there before the 10 day February North Island roady.
Avon Cobra 150/80R17 front runs around $400 Aus Col. 💰💰🙄
Yeah, got 1 sitting in the shed, ready to be fitted when needed. Done the rear a while back.
Avon stopped production a while back, then Dunlop brought them & now Cobra Chromes are being made by Dunlop - apparently. I know there was a real shortage of Chromes at one stage, so I brought a new set whilst still around, they were bloody dear then too. I haven't heard of new stock showing up anywhere yet, but then again, I'm not looking either. Might go looking at NZ sites & see if anyone has them in stock, just for a nosey.
I looked, nowt around, not even other brands in the sizes of the Rocket. Some had prices but no availability. I'll be good for another year or so yet, so no worries.
Dold Industries (actually where I got my last 2 from): Front Chrome $478 + shipping, Rear Chrome $592 + shipping. I'll see what emerges between now & needing them.
Knew I had a few hours of log splitting ahead of me, with weather due to pack in later in the day, so set off from home at 6:00 am to do some of my favourite local ride...out to Apiti and back. It's only 80kms total, but has countless corners (sweepers to hairpins)and ups and downs.
A nippy 9C for much of it, but scenery lovely and I saw only two vehicles during the ride.
A highlight was pootling in second gear through a village, following a deer for 1/2km until it headed back into the bush.
Headed off in bright sunshine to see Dad in Cambridge, took some back roads along Lake Karapiro then over the Karapiro Dam. Lunch in Cambridge then it pissed down so stayed put and had another coffee. Through Matamata and back over the Kaimais to home. Missed all the rain, kept the bride dry, happy wife !! Good day out on the scoota.
:boogie:
Yeah Col, you have some gadgets.At 70 now, hate change but are forced into learning new ways, banks, tv, phone,pc,even now a total new golf score interface.My wife no help, thats my job🤪, figure stuff out.I reckon i go ok, Virgos & a few beers, awesome combination. 14 just tells me my speed, revs, gear position.Diavel could tell lots, unfortunately lost on me, tft screen too hard for my eyes. Simple 👍is good.
Is this group any use ?
I've spoken to several places over here about Cobra Chromes as I run them on my HD, apparently there's a production run due in February. If some do appear I need a rear so might order 3 (2 rear, 1 front) so I've got them ready & waiting.
Quote from: GSXKING on Sunday, 30 November 2025, 09:52 AMMy BMW monitors pressure but not temperature. I can usually assess the tyres preparedness for grip by the way the bike moves once cornering. 🙏
Chris, if you have access to a GS911 or Motoscan OBDII interface, change the unit for tyre pressures from bar to psi and it should also read temperature
As a side note about tire temps, I have observed the front tire runs considerably cooler than the rear, like about ½ the temp. The rear may be at 33c but the front will only get to about 16c even though the ambient at the time is 18 - 19c. Apparently this is normal for bikes & there's several reasons for it. To me it was an interesting observation.
Woke up this morning and it was damned cold (3 degrees) but the sun was shining and the forecast said no rain.
So, out with the XSR9 (14 still playing up) and a nice little, jolly around the lanes of Shropshire, ensued.
Stopped at Poolhall for breakfast, before heading back home.
Sadly, the forecast was wrong but it was only, light showers.
So, all in all, not bad for the last day of November, here in England
More photos from today
Last few, I promise
Cooled down to 28 degrees C so a quick 163k's / 101 miles morning loop to get a coffee. Saw another blue bike to add to my blue trees photos as it's on the same theme, so stopped for a pic.
(https://i.ibb.co/CKg30q74/IMG-4142.jpg) (https://ibb.co/KxdpyYqB)
(https://i.ibb.co/v4WqMQS0/IMG-4143.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RTKbJBqR)
(https://i.ibb.co/Gvbf053b/IMG-4144.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WWYN62pY)
I find I was doing a lot of the same rides after 20+ years so I started to give myself things to find or ride out too. It's taken me a lot of places I haven't been or haven't been to in ages.
# Aussie Big ( and odd!) Things : Pineapple, Pelican, Boot, etc.
# Blue Trees (and now blue motorbikes)
# Tanks, jets, guns etc mostly at RSL's.
# I have done a couple of fire towers so that may be another.
I keeps me on the road and clocking up the miles, and I get to see new things and new places. I'm easily pleased!
(https://i.ibb.co/ZvjShPF/IMG-4145.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hr6cKj4)
(https://i.ibb.co/mCjCj9vx/IMG-4147.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MDvDvc8X)
(https://i.ibb.co/wFRmkYLz/IMG-4148.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ZpVDjNJM)
(https://i.ibb.co/r2RwLNnC/IMG-4149.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HTfHM3mW)
(https://i.ibb.co/0jkpWb8Q/IMG-4151.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Fb9kfTNn)
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Monday, 01 December 2025, 11:20 AMI find I was doing a lot of the same rides after 20+ years so I started to give myself things to find or ride out too. It's taken me a lot of places I haven't been or haven't been to in ages.
# Aussie Big ( and odd!) Things : Pineapple, Pelican, Boot, etc.
# Blue Trees (and now blue motorbikes)
# Tanks, jets, guns etc mostly at RSL's.
# I have done a couple of fire towers so that may be another.
I keeps me on the road and clocking up the miles, and I get to see new things and new places. I'm easily pleased!
(https://i.ibb.co/ZvjShPF/IMG-4145.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hr6cKj4)
(https://i.ibb.co/mCjCj9vx/IMG-4147.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MDvDvc8X)
(https://i.ibb.co/wFRmkYLz/IMG-4148.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ZpVDjNJM)
(https://i.ibb.co/r2RwLNnC/IMG-4149.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HTfHM3mW)
(https://i.ibb.co/0jkpWb8Q/IMG-4151.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Fb9kfTNn)
Quick question Mr Nitro. How on earth, do you get all, those photo's on one post and in such, large format. ???
I can only manage, to get three on, at a time and I'm out of space. :worshippy:
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Monday, 01 December 2025, 11:20 AMI find I was doing a lot of the same rides after 20+ years so I started to give myself things to find or ride out too. It's taken me a lot of places I haven't been or haven't been to in ages.
# Aussie Big ( and odd!) Things : Pineapple, Pelican, Boot, etc.
# Blue Trees (and now blue motorbikes)
# Tanks, jets, guns etc mostly at RSL's.
# I have done a couple of fire towers so that may be another.
I keeps me on the road and clocking up the miles, and I get to see new things and new places. I'm easily
Here's another fire tower for you to track down on the DRZ. It's a good easy run across through Mt Binga to the Blackbutt area. Quite a few sidetracks to explore as well if you're feeling adventurous but the lantana can be an issue in places - worse than the photo below, this is just an area I felt like I could breathe in.
Mt Binga fire tower (https://maps.app.goo.gl/8RjdmzL6BntWkPhd7?g_st=ipc)
IMG_0000.jpeg
He probs makes em 10kb each Mr Gee.
D.D.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Monday, 01 December 2025, 08:03 PMQuote from: Tony Nitrous on Monday, 01 December 2025, 11:20 AMI find I was doing a lot of the same rides after 20+ years so I started to give myself things to find or ride out too. It's taken me a lot of places I haven't been or haven't been to in ages.
# Aussie Big ( and odd!) Things : Pineapple, Pelican, Boot, etc.
# Blue Trees (and now blue motorbikes)
# Tanks, jets, guns etc mostly at RSL's.
# I have done a couple of fire towers so that may be another.
I keeps me on the road and clocking up the miles, and I get to see new things and new places. I'm easily pleased!
[
Quick question Mr Nitro. How on earth, do you get all, those photo's on one post and in such, large format. ???
I can only manage, to get three on, at a time and I'm out of space. :worshippy:
That's only 3 or 4 photos, they are a montage of smaller pics.
It's just a couple of screenshots of pics saved elsewhere.
My pics are hosted on ImgBB not on here.
Quote from: lurch on Monday, 01 December 2025, 08:44 PMHere's another fire tower for you to track down on the DRZ. It's a good easy run across through Mt Binga to the Blackbutt area. Quite a few sidetracks to explore as well if you're feeling adventurous but the lantana can be an issue in places - worse than the photo below, this is just an area I felt like I could breathe in.
Mt Binga fire tower (https://maps.app.goo.gl/8RjdmzL6BntWkPhd7?g_st=ipc)
IMG_0000.jpeg
That's great. I've never been there but know several of the road around that area. That's 100% on my to do list.
That looks like some snakey heaven in there.
No thanks.
Quote from: lurch on Monday, 01 December 2025, 08:44 PM[
Mt Binga fire tower (https://maps.app.goo.gl/8RjdmzL6BntWkPhd7?g_st=ipc)
Shimmel Road through Mt BInga is closed in the middle.
There's an excavator digging rocks and gravel out of the hillside, trucks tipping it in the single lane road, loose fill and rocks like shoe box's and bigger. Nowhere to go if you meet a truck or grader in some sections.
(https://i.ibb.co/whTz10YX/IMG-4201.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Xx9CT2Vg)
(https://i.ibb.co/xKN752xs/IMG-4202.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Q74KmJyc)
You'll need to get a larger Dakar style fuel tank, or an auxiliary one soon, to allow explorations further afield
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Friday, 05 December 2025, 01:21 PMYou'll need to get a larger Dakar style fuel tank, or an auxiliary one soon, to allow explorations further afield
Yeah, I've priced them up, if I start going further afield I'd need to do the gearing too. They aren't ideal for the road, 100kph feels too busy with the rev's, even on the dirt I'm mostly in 4th and 5th.
I still have a lot of local tracks and trails to explore for a while. I might have to buy one of those Adventure Bike if I don't get bored or do myself an injury., instead of turning this bike into something it isn't.
Jimna, Mt Binga, Pechey.
(https://i.ibb.co/Y74Tv2rc/IMG-4206.jpg) (https://ibb.co/99m3RnMb)
I do know to a few more to do too.
Getting right into the off road Tony. 👍 Jimna ive climbed, 47 metres, tallest wooden tower sthn hemisphere. Think it used to have a info board at top. A bit of history and direction arrows with distance to wherever.
Took the 1402 to the BMW club meet today, bike is running perfectly again, this was the first long ride out since getting it back to where it should be.
20251207_073703.jpg
Got a few nice comments from the guys, they hadn't seen it before, some thought it was new. Bike is well behaved now, low speed running is as it should be now.
Happy Days.
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Sunday, 07 December 2025, 11:27 AMTook the 1402 to the BMW club meet today, bike is running perfectly again, this was the first long ride out since getting it back to where it should be.
20251207_073703.jpg
Got a few nice comments from the guys, they hadn't seen it before, some thought it was new. Bike is well behaved now, low speed running is as it should be now.
Happy Days.
Glory be, hallelujah to Buddha
So very happy for you 🥳🥳🥳
We did an overnighter to Wondai for a Christmas party.
Did the scenic rides up and back.
The perfect riding weather this weekend. I didn't even pack any wet gear I was so confident.
Well done Eric,about time it behaved properly 👍 At least there was one good lookin bike at your BMW meet😂
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Friday, 05 December 2025, 02:04 PMYeah, I've priced them up, if I start going further afield I'd need to do the gearing too. They aren't ideal for the road, 100kph feels too busy with the rev's, even on the dirt I'm mostly in 4th and 5th.
I still have a lot of local tracks and trails to explore for a while. I might have to buy one of those Adventure Bike if I don't get bored or do myself an injury., instead of turning this bike into something it isn't.
I've got a few different size bladders you're welcome to borrow for a test before shelling out for a big tank if you like. They just gather dust between remote trips.
If you intend to keep riding solo I think you're on one of the best options. The safety factor of a lighter bike in comparison to "adventure bikes" (e.g. my 990) shouldn't be overlooked. You should also consider a PLB or other satellite comms device - I personally don't leave home without my Garmin Inreach.
I've always said DRZ's do everything but none of it particularly well. A true compromise. Fit 15/44 sprockets and call it done as an all rounder. I rode mine from Toowoomba to Cape York and back again with nothing more than that gearing, a 17L tank and well setup suspension.
Lurch is your friend Tony, knows the ropes👍Im no off roader but i thought a while ago, some sort of if im trouble communication.
That's one hell of a trip on a DRZ Lurch! :onya: :clapping:
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 07 December 2025, 06:41 PMQuote from: Tony Nitrous on Friday, 05 December 2025, 02:04 PMYeah, I've priced them up, if I start going further afield I'd need to do the gearing too. They aren't ideal for the road, 100kph feels too busy with the rev's, even on the dirt I'm mostly in 4th and 5th.
I still have a lot of local tracks and trails to explore for a while. I might have to buy one of those Adventure Bike if I don't get bored or do myself an injury., instead of turning this bike into something it isn't.
I've got a few different size bladders you're welcome to borrow for a test before shelling out for a big tank if you like. They just gather dust between remote trips.
If you intend to keep riding solo I think you're on one of the best options. The safety factor of a lighter bike in comparison to "adventure bikes" (e.g. my 990) shouldn't be overlooked. You should also consider a PLB or other satellite comms device - I personally don't leave home without my Garmin Inreach.
I've always said DRZ's do everything but none of it particularly well. A true compromise. Fit 15/44 sprockets and call it done as an all rounder. I rode mine from Toowoomba to Cape York and back again with nothing more than that gearing, a 17L tank and well setup suspension.
Thanks. I appreciate that.
I do try and stick to my own rule of not changing stuff on a new bike untill I'm used to it, live with it for a little while first, but it soon became obvious the tank size and gearing could be more suitable, obviously why the accessories list so many options.
I do like some of the extras, tech and toys available but I don't want to spend a fortune trying to turn it into something it isn't. Long term I'd rather spend the money on Busa's or buy another off road bike with better road manners.
It's a fun little bike as it is, but I'll certainly consider trying your tank, thanks for the offer.
Quote from: grog on Sunday, 07 December 2025, 07:11 PMLurch is your friend Tony, knows the ropes👍Im no off roader but i thought a while ago, some sort of if im trouble communication.
Living up here, riding on weekdays most of my rides are solo, even running out to places like Roma and Chinchilla or up to Gaynda there's places where it'd be handy on my road bikes.
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 07 December 2025, 06:41 PMQuote from: Tony Nitrous on Friday, 05 December 2025, 02:04 PMYeah, I've priced them up, if I start going further afield I'd need to do the gearing too. They aren't ideal for the road, 100kph feels too busy with the rev's, even on the dirt I'm mostly in 4th and 5th.
I still have a lot of local tracks and trails to explore for a while. I might have to buy one of those Adventure Bike if I don't get bored or do myself an injury., instead of turning this bike into something it isn't.
I've got a few different size bladders you're welcome to borrow for a test before shelling out for a big tank if you like. They just gather dust between remote trips.
If you intend to keep riding solo I think you're on one of the best options. The safety factor of a lighter bike in comparison to "adventure bikes" (e.g. my 990) shouldn't be overlooked. You should also consider a PLB or other satellite comms device - I personally don't leave home without my Garmin Inreach.
I've always said DRZ's do everything but none of it particularly well. A true compromise. Fit 15/44 sprockets and call it done as an all rounder. I rode mine from Toowoomba to Cape York and back again with nothing more than that gearing, a 17L tank and well setup suspension.
I did the Baja twice on a DRZ, fell off a dozen times - nothing drastic and had a blast! Good bike ended up with a broken frame as punished it so much. Did the Continental Divide Mexico to Canada 4K in the dirt (18 days) on a DR650 - both bikes had Baja tanks and we carried Rotopaxs - last run before flicking all the dirt stuff - age stuffed that - it began to hurt to much!! All good fun!!!
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 07 December 2025, 06:41 PMI've always said DRZ's do everything but none of it particularly well. A true compromise.
One of the things the 400E does well that was an attraction is it's a very long running, well selling low tech bike.
For a small market like AU to sell 21,000 of them over 21 years and having such a huge back up of parts, knowledge, accessories etc for a bike that hit the showrooms 2 decades ago and is still there appeals to me.
After buying B-King parts and being told No Stock / not available, or booking a H2 in for a service / recall and being told Sorry we aren't trained, try a dealer 180K's away, the very basic outdated DRZ is a breath of fresh air.
Can't think of many bikes that were in the showroom in 2001 and still are that so many folk, both shop mechanics and the public have so much experience with. I like that, along with it being a bike they just couldn't build and sell in the future.
It's not a flash bike to boast about but it's a honest little ride that's not pretending to be something it's not.
Did the Coromandel Loop to look at the Pohutukawa trees in blossom with management on the back. Stinking hot. Had a great day, such an easy bike two up. 407kms 8 till 8, plenty of stops. The pool was refreshing but still 29°C when we got home.
:boogie2:
Coromandel town
20251207_121300.jpg
Pohutukawa looks nice, ours are not flowering yet. I'll be doing the Coromandel loop in Feb, overnight in Thames after it enroute to AKL next day.
Went out for a bit of a local run today, nowt much but a couple of screen grabs from the video.
Okari Rd near Tauranga Bay
TGA Bay Rd2.jpg
Wilsons Lead Rd, heading out to SH6
TGA Rd 3.jpg
Coats St Tipper, where the Buller River meets the sea.
Coats St Tipper.jpg
I've lost the ability to include photos of a smaller size .. Phone did an update :whatever: :whatever:
IMG_0355.jpeg Sorry, you are out of attachment space. The current total attachment size allowed per post is 2048 KB. The total amount of the selected files is 0 KB. Please delete one or more attachments. 3.3 MB
Is it an I-Phone Mick?
Quote from: KiwiCol on Friday, 12 December 2025, 03:54 AMIs it an I-Phone Mick?
Yes, and only since it's done an update. An update that was required as it fixed the Apple car play issue .. now I can't upload pics
I rode out for a friend's funeral today, appropriate cold wet weather for him to laugh at all the idiots riding in winter. Must have been near 100 bikes out for him, Jack was a popular old bugger.
No better tribute to a true friend than by enduring unpleasant weather for a funeral.
My friends will warm themselves on my funeral pyre. :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
Had a Mate, alcoholic since teens, Victoria Bitter drinker. He was a great bloke, at entrance to his funeral everyone had to grab a VB tally(750ml bottle).
325K's / 202 miles, mostly warmer than ideal, dash showed 37 C for quite a while, detour to miss the black clouds where the rain started. Had breakfast and coffee with the guy behind the $650m Gondwana vehicle testing facility that's planned for Qld. Interesting guy, ex-TT racer out on a very trick Aprilia.
(https://i.ibb.co/Jj8yMMyy/IMG-4299.jpg) (https://ibb.co/qYhWPPWW)
(https://i.ibb.co/dshLm9pc/IMG-4300.jpg) (https://ibb.co/BH1rnD6P)
Quote from: KiwiCol on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, 08:07 PMPohutukawa looks nice, ours are not flowering yet. I'll be doing the Coromandel loop in Feb, overnight in Thames after it enroute to AKL next day.
Went out for a bit of a local run today, nowt much but a couple of screen grabs from the video.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, 08:07 PMPohutukawa looks nice, ours are not flowering yet. I'll be doing the Coromandel loop in Feb, overnight in Thames after it enroute to AKL next day.
Went out for a bit of a local run today, nowt much but a couple of screen grabs from the video.
Now that's a different kind of December to the one I'm trying to ride in. :8:
Just got back from 3100 km ride around Morocco some great scenery and experiences , found the Sahara not keen on heavy road tyred bikes, surprise surprise ,some very nice mountain roads the 14 would have loved it.
Birches Restaurant at Mt.Mee for our end of Year function.
As usual fabulous food and professional service.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE AND WISHING YOU AND YOURS AN EPIC 2026 🥳🥳🥳
What dates are you around here Col. There's a bed and a beer here for you if you'd like to slum it in Tauranga.
Be good to catch up.
:cheers:
Just out for a local bumble, stopped at the pub on the way home.
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Nice cycle KC, I showed the missus your bike, she liked it as well, I'm working on justifying another stable mate to the Geisha Girl (K3 1402) and the Bavarian Mistress (BMW K1300GT), I reckon a British Strumpet would fit in well...
Awesome bike Col👍Maybe a tail tidy to complete, not poking my nose in, just hate those stock brkts.
Quote from: grog on Monday, 22 December 2025, 05:18 PMAwesome bike Col👍Maybe a tail tidy to complete, not poking my nose in, just hate those stock brkts.
There are a few guys who do that & some look factory. I don't mind it & it's solid as.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Monday, 22 December 2025, 06:27 PMThere are a few guys who do that & some look factory. I don't mind it & it's solid as.
Tail tidys or chopping the long rear guards used to be my first mod. Even bikes like the Busa, 14 and B-King would at least get them trimmed across the bottom of the plate.
Haven't done one in a while, I think every bike I've used in the last few years has a factory guard / tail, even when I put the GSXR subframe on my Busa I used a factory GSXR guard. Doesn't interest me now.
On a bright note, I told my Mrs what I'd like my next bike to be. I braced myself for the explosion... it never came! She just named a few things we need to tick off our list first. In reality I'll probably change my mind a dozen times, but I still think it means I'm not getting grief for the next one.
:boogie:
To Boonah today from Goodna, out to Yamanto, turned left there and detoured at Peak Crossing via Harrisville and Kalbar lovely and green out there. A pleasant 25 degrees with a strong southerly blowing.
Arrived at Arthur Clive's cafe and all six of us had a different choice of meal, which were all exemplary as is the coffee.
Everyone took a different route home which was unusual but not unexpected. :cheers:
Overall we had many rides during 2025 and we are looking forward to many more in 2026.
Happy New Year to all you orgsters :cheers: :cheers:
Beautiful morning, 28 degrees C.
122k (76 miles) round trip for bacon and egg on toast.
(https://i.ibb.co/HT3jZf1p/IMG-4421.jpg) (https://ibb.co/N2bMRdQn)
(https://i.ibb.co/8nqP7zX7/IMG-4422.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9m6yrwGr)
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That's probably it for this year. I normaly ride on Jan 1st but we are doing a Park Run this year that's not local so it'll probably be a few days. Must remember to write all the mileages down on 1/1/26.
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"Secrets on the Lake" at Montville. A very unique and boutique accommodation place. There's quite the history to the place and the gentleman whom designed and built/carved everything there.
We met at Shell Aspley and headed up through the Glass House mountains to Woodford then Stanley River Road then the famous Mountain View Road past Mary Cairncross Park to our glorious destination.
Food, coffee and service is very good. No complaints from our group 🙏😳.
Homewards bound we travelled the Bald Knob (not in the best condition roadwise I've seen) back to Woodford then Mt. Mee, Dayboro, Samford and home through the city.
We stopped at Woodford RSL to investigate the tank outside as Shane is ex British Tank Commander. It was very interesting to have an expert talk us through these amazing machines. The Rosemary bushes are in full bloom there and the scent is overwhelming. ANZAC DAY not too far away. I will organise a ride to Redcliffe on Anzac Day.
Around 350 kms door to door and considering the cloud cover we only had a few spritzing showers all day.
Overall a great start to the New Year. 🙏🙏
140km round trip for coffee with the wife. She chose to crop me out of the photo so 50% of a 1400 is the best I can do.
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 04 January 2026, 12:21 PM140km round trip for coffee with the wife. She chose to crop me out of the photo so 50% of a 1400 is the best I can do.
I used to eat at Nash Gallery over the road, but I do like BVR. Went there on New Years Day after Park Run but the queue was out onto the street so just grabbed a coffee.
The bakery at Esk is piss poor but a couple of good cafes and being able to get there via dirt or bitumen puts it on my list.
Only 1 ride in 2026 so far but I'll up that when folk go back to work.
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Sunday, 04 January 2026, 01:30 PMQuote from: lurch on Sunday, 04 January 2026, 12:21 PM140km round trip for coffee with the wife. She chose to crop me out of the photo so 50% of a 1400 is the best I can do.
I used to eat at Nash Gallery over the road, but I do like BVR. Went there on New Years Day after Park Run but the queue was out onto the street so just grabbed a coffee.
The bakery at Esk is piss poor but a couple of good cafes and being able to get there via dirt or bitumen puts it on my list.
Only 1 ride in 2026 so far but I'll up that when folk go back to work.
Haven't been to the bakery in years but it used to be good, so that's disappointing to hear. Seems to be a new/updated cafe at the Esk-Hampton Rd tee so I'll have to give that a try.
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 04 January 2026, 02:15 PMHaven't been to the bakery in years but it used to be good, so that's disappointing to hear. Seems to be a new/updated cafe at the Esk-Hampton Rd tee so I'll have to give that a try.
The Esk bakery has been pretty average for a while, but the staff make it even worse. Some of the reviews about the miserable manager are pretty funny.
Now Garrys in Cooyar and Tony's cafe in Hayden are both closed I've had to find a new 2nd home.
I've gone off Sonia's cafe in Goombungee, so now it's between...
# The Floating Cafe at Grantham.
# Relish at Highfields.
# Nash Gallery or Brisbane Valley Roasters at Esk.
# Blackbutt Bakery.
... or new to the list... The Linville General Store / Cafe.
I did look at the one at Moore, but there wasn't much shade and it was partly a Harley shop.
The one on the corner at Hampton is "1 Hampton Rd" it's our regular coffee stop heading into town, my wife's friends with the owner. The previous management have moved back a street and now have a similar shop next to the Real Estate, we don't go there!
I have used a cafe in Toogoolawah, the ride down suits the DRZ but the cafe wasn't great.
Linville is my current favorite, but it's 100K's from Crows Nest via Blackbutt.
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 04 January 2026, 12:21 PM140km round trip for coffee with the wife. She chose to crop me out of the photo so 50% of a 1400 is the best I can do.
Nice coffee and toasted sangas in Esk 👍👍
Ride-2 of 2026.
160K's, 99 miles this morning in search of a bacon and egg roll.
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Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Monday, 05 January 2026, 11:59 AMRide-2 of 2026.
160K's, 99 miles this morning in search of a bacon and egg roll.
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Your second ride in 2026. Haven't had the bikes out, at all, in 2026. Snow and ice just, about everywhere.
Roll on the end of February, might get some warmer, dryer weather
Quote from: Mr Gee on Monday, 05 January 2026, 12:08 PMQuote from: Tony Nitrous on Monday, 05 January 2026, 11:59 AMRide-2 of 2026.
160K's, 99 miles this morning in search of a bacon and egg roll.
Your second ride in 2026. Haven't had the bikes out, at all, in 2026. Snow and ice just, about everywhere.
Roll on the end of February, might get some warmer, dryer weather
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There's been a heap of bikes out here over Xmas. The temps have been mostly nice, 17 to 25 C today. There's a bit of rain around but none on my rides and only a few mm at home. I'm still watering the new garden.
I don't ride much on weekends or holidays, but folk are heading back to work today so I'll start and get a few rides in.
I intend to ride more this year but every time I look at a bike it needs tyres, a service, brake pads, or something that involves time and money. 2 dealer services (Gen-3 and DRZ) tyres (B-King and Gen-3) brakes, oil and filter, airfilter etc (B-King) chain and sprockets (DRZ) and more. I have a builder starting here soon and the funds and bills don't balance !!
My 3 obsessions so far this year...
Motorbike rides...... 2
Parkruns... 2
Planting trees...... 1
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Monday, 05 January 2026, 11:59 AMRide-2 of 2026.
160K's, 99 miles this morning in search of a bacon and egg roll.
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That Bridge is actually slightly lower than the lowest one I know. Shoreham airport has one 10cm higher.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/bvQuk2Ej3nadPgZA6
Haven't been there recently but there was a 1.9m one near where I lived over bayside.
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Bloody hell, I couldn't even walk under that! Neither could Blubber.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 06 January 2026, 04:24 AMBloody hell, I couldn't even walk under that! Neither could Blubber.
You could if you bent your knees or your back Col :doh: :facepalm: :rofl2:
Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 06 January 2026, 04:24 AMBloody hell, I couldn't even walk under that! Neither could Blubber.
A couple of beers and some Caribbean music ?
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Quote from: KiwiCol on Tuesday, 06 January 2026, 04:24 AMBloody hell, I couldn't even walk under that! Neither could Blubber.
At 2.03m that would prove a bit difficult.
I might just move around like a Sims character hitting an obstacle :boogie2:
2026... Ride number 3.
247K's / 153 miles.
Home mid morning.
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My obsession number counting is now...
Motorbike rides... 3
Park Runs.......... 2
Planting Trees......3
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Wednesday, 07 January 2026, 11:33 AM2026... Ride number 3.
247K's / 153 miles.
Home mid morning.
(https://i.ibb.co/hFhj1bBH/IMG-4497.jpg) (https://ibb.co/TMpSq64R)
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My obsession number counting is now...
Motorbike rides... 3
Park Runs.......... 2
Planting Trees......3
You're not making me jealous, at all. :tongue: :bugga:
I love being wet and cold. Makes me feel, like I earned my ride. :rofl2: :happy1: :lol:
One of those two lines, is a lie but can you guess which one. :grin:
Quote from: Mr Gee on Wednesday, 07 January 2026, 11:41 AMYou're not making me jealous, at all. :tongue: :bugga:
I love being wet and cold. Makes me feel, like I earned my ride. :rofl2: :happy1: :lol:
One of those two lines, is a lie but can you guess which one. :grin:
I'm finding I ache more and feel less comfortable as the years go by.
I've convinced myself (and more importantly my wife) that it's because I'm not ride-fit and my body isn't used to being on the bike now. Obviously riding more will be beneficial.
So I have to ride for medical reasons... :whistling:
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Wednesday, 07 January 2026, 11:33 AMMy obsession number counting is now...
Motorbike rides... 3
Park Runs.......... 2
Planting Trees......3
Tony earlier...
The Count Von Count.png
I'm feeling very penned in at the moment and am itching for a ride.
The UK weather is not being kind at the moment though (snow and ice) and I'm not brave enough.
The back end of last year wasn't very productive either, rain seemed a constant problem. There were a couple of trips on the GTR and GSX out toward the Welsh borders, but these suffered forced detours down some dodgy farm lanes due to flooding in the likes of Leintwardine and Clun.
It's bound to get better soon though.
Wasn't too bad here yesterday so I got out for a few miles around Somerset, riding through Weston some little L plater kept undertaking me to get up close to the car that was in front, I breezed around them only to find the little tit did it again at the next car, he gave himself no escape route had thigs gone wrong, I hope he learns before it's too late.
Out with the bride today. Went to the Suzuki shop in Whakatane first up. Then over the hill for lunch in Ohope before a look round the surf beach then the inner harbour.
Back to Whakatane for a cold drink in the shade, 27°C there today, popped into the Honda shop and threw my leg over a shop demo Transalp. I need to find my old platform shoes if I'm to ride an adventure bike. Management thought it was a bit high....she could see over my head. Anyway I'm only window shopping, Might sit on the Africa Twin as the fella said the seat is adjustable. I'm just sniffing around as we'd like to explore gravel roads, something I'm not comfortable with on the 14.
Anyway we had a great day out motorcycling finally getting home 240kms later....still with time to cool off in the pool.
The only ice I saw today was in my bourbon :hat:
Tried sitting on a BMW GS Kiwifruit?
Thursday is ride to Pickering Brook day and check out the lovely assortment of bikes, plus the breakfast is good to.
Couple more pics
Meanwhile, in Britain we have storm Goretti. :onya:
Bet all you guys, down under are dead jealous. :rofl2: :happy1: :lol:
That almost looks inviting after a week working in south west Queensland at 40 deg
Almost lurch, not really😂
Quote from: Mr Gee on Friday, 09 January 2026, 08:35 AMMeanwhile, in Britain we have storm Goretti. :onya:
Bet all you guys, down under are dead jealous. :rofl2: :happy1: :lol:
yeah nah
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Thursday, 08 January 2026, 09:12 PMTried sitting on a BMW GS Kiwifruit?
No not yet Eric, a mate has a 1200GS for sale, Now he's got a 1250 GSA. He keeps asking me if I want a test ride on the 1200.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Friday, 09 January 2026, 08:35 AMMeanwhile, in Britain we have storm Goretti. :onya:
Bet all you guys, down under are dead jealous. :rofl2: :happy1: :lol:
We are....it was 30°C when i was in our swimming puddle this arvo, just put the cover on :cheers:
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There's two foot of snow, outside my house now. :happy1:
[quote :rofl3: :rofl3: author=Mr Gee link :rofl3: =msg=115575 date=1767911715]
Meanwhile, in Britain we have storm Goretti. :onya:
Bet all you guys, down under are dead jealous. :rofl2: :happy1: :lol:
[/quote]
🤣🤣🤣 That's a big No from
Me
A nice breakfast ride this morning with a few mates. Can't believe how great the GSX1400 is going since I did the ECU reset ...before it was jerky in the lower gears when riding along at lower speeds ... Now it's so smooth !!!
What I did:
Negative terminal on battery - Off & wait a couple of minutes
Turn key on & Twist throttle to full and back 4-5 times
Reconnect the negative terminal battery.
Turn Key on and start bike
:onya:
Even though its a pretty simple ECU, I also think that this hard reset has its benefits. AFAIK it allows all capacitance in the ECU to be discharged and clears any and all DTC's. Used to do it to my LR D4, made a big difference there too.
I've done the same trick a few times, but never including the full throttle open close bit. Thanks MickyJB, will give that a try next time.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Saturday, 10 January 2026, 09:17 AMThere's two foot of snow, outside my house now. :happy1:
Nonsense, that's only up to your ankles!
Quote from: Kiwifruit on Friday, 09 January 2026, 05:39 PMQuote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Thursday, 08 January 2026, 09:12 PMTried sitting on a BMW GS Kiwifruit?
No not yet Eric, a mate has a 1200GS for sale, Now he's got a 1250 GSA. He keeps asking me if I want a test ride on the 1200.
Trust me you'll love it Colin. Love my GS.
Can't go wrong with a 1200 or 1250. Especially for taller riders.
I'm tempted myself, the 1200 and 1250s can be found pretty cheaply with all the fruit added, they make great touring rigs.
Like what Dave said! I put 50K on my GS around the States - sold it and regretted it - they have great legs for touring and nimble in the corners. The luggage?.... you can't beat it!
Yeah, but it means people see you on a GS.
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Monday, 12 January 2026, 11:59 AMCan't go wrong with a 1200 or 1250.
I agree, although I much prefer the 12 to the 1250.
Wait! We are talking about Suzuki Bandits aren't we? :grin:
You mispelt Blandit :stir:
Some really cheap 1200/1250 for sale. Full Yoshi, PC, lots of bits included. Almost tempted, another Suzuki. All my life us Mates met up, cruised every motorbike shop, always dodged Harley&BMW shops.No interest.
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, 07:36 AMQuote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Monday, 12 January 2026, 11:59 AMCan't go wrong with a 1200 or 1250.
I agree, although I much prefer the 12 to the 1250.
Wait! We are talking about Suzuki Bandits aren't we? :grin:
my very first bike was a Bandit 250GSX-F I think they were called. 10000rpm redline, heaps of fun to ride
Years back when I used to work, a bloke there used to bring his mrs bike to work on occasion, it was a GSX250 too. 4 cyl 250cc. Had an insane red line, prob same as yours Eric, had to rev the shit out of it to get anywhere. Bike looked good though, can't remember what sort of speeds he'd get or what it'd cruise at comfortably.
Col, don't get a GSX250. The BMW GS - GSA 1200's & 1250's sure get a good rap, plus you're already in the BMW club anyway . . . K1600 for the big tours you do wouldn't be out of place either.
I some times tour with a bloke on a K1600, those things are the fastest lorry I've seen on two wheels. It's bloody daft how quickly a good rider can go along tight curvy roads & not appear to be trying.
4th ride of 2026.
Another 243K / 151 mile loop to my new to me, but now becoming regular cafe.
Warm but not hot, cloudy but no rain.
I'm happy with that sort of weather.
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3 years on the H2 SX SE I wasn't bothered if I rode it or not and was watching what else was for sale.
3 years on the Gen-3 I still love it ! Anything happens to it I'd buy another one the same tomorrow.
It's been left in A-1-1 mode recently. I rarely bother changing it. Full power, but with all the tech and toys turned on. Most of it is reactive not proactive so it makes little difference if you aren't being stupid.
Full power, traction control, anti wheelie, quick shifter in its sporty setting, 2 step launch, engine braking on full etc etc. None of which are intrusive or noticeable.
I'm guessing that, in theory, you could turn off at a T-junction in 2nd, give it full throttle, just tap the quick shifter into 3rd and then 4th, pre-shift and shift lights flashing, no clutch, no backing off, no wheelies or wheelspin, just real hard smooth acceleration. I'd imagine that would be quite childish, unnecessary, require next to no skill, but would have some entertainment value to a stupid old bloke. Who knows?,
Yes, in theory that would be quite entertaining. Have you tested above theory? Just asking for a friend...
Quickshifter and similar electronics made behaviour like that entertaining on the road on my 1290 Adventure. On dirt you could light the rear up and keep it spinning while feeding it gears until the scenery started to blur and the realisation that you'd have no chance of stopping set in :laugh:
I've considered a quickshifter for the 1400 just for a giggle.
Lurch......
My new breakfast run,
Crows Nest, Blackbutt, Moore, Linville, Moore, Harlin, Gregors Creek Rd, Somerset Dam, Esk, Esk-Hampton Rd, Perserverance Dam, Pechey.
The cafe at Linville General Store isn't quite as good as the two at Esk, but I prefer doing that loop to ride and the owners at the Linville Store are cool. It takes in 7 or 8 seperate sections of twisty roads and bends.
240-250K's for me and it suits big road bikes like the Busa, B-King or 1400.
Speaking of quickshifters or rather just shifters,....staying at the same motel as us in Whanganui recently where some blokes on Hayabusa's. One fella had a prosthetic left lower leg , he had a Kliktronic electric shifter with the buttons on the bars.
He said it was great, just connects to the gear lever so anyone could ride it. But he couldn't ride without it.
I've been on adventure rides with a guy on an Africa Twin who's wheelchair bound. He designed and built his own stabilising wheels that lower below a certain speed and the DCT with shift buttons takes care of gear changes. Where there's a will there's a way
Regarding quickshifters, I've only ever used them at trackdays. Where you're definitely using much more throttle movement. Along with traction control and ABS you get to go much harder and faster than I would ever ride on the street.
The H2 and Gen-3 both have 2-way quickshifters, sadly it's very hard to retro fit a down shifter without fly by wire. Busa's have a quite long turn throttles for a sporty bike, why R1 and R6 throttle tubes are popular.
They really aren't necessary on the road, but they are a bit of fun. Being able to shift up without touching the clutch or shutting off really is noticeably quicker, but not something you can do without eventually getting into trouble.
Like the 2-step launch control, sitting at the lights holding full throttle and the revs sit at 4, 6 or 8000 untill you drop the clutch... Yeah, it's funny occasionally but pretty useless really for a clumsy old bloke plodding off for his breakfast! ... :rolleyes:
Adjustable engine braking ? Multiple anti-wheelie settings ? Lean angle displays ? 6-axis IMU ? Multi option dash ? K's per ltr display ? Breaking hard enough to trigger the hazard lights ?
Most of it is just silly toys. My Gen-2 has none of it, just like my GSX1400 not even ABS. It's just as much fun.
It's still a laugh playing with it and I don't really need to love or hate it.
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Towards Cooyar, across to Maclagan, to Bun, then Bell to get a coffee this morning. I'd have loved to have carried on further but I needed to be home by mid day to meet a tradie for a quote.
Still another 229K's / 142 miles.
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Thursday, 15 January 2026, 11:47 AM(https://i.ibb.co/1G45Fd0f/IMG-4565.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Kx8kTL5j)
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Towards Cooyar, across to Maclagan, to Bun, then Bell to get a coffee this morning. I'd have loved to have carried on further but I needed to be home by mid day to meet a tradie for a quote.
Still another 229K's / 142 miles.
Still wet, miserable and very cold here. :thumbs_down:
You can go off people, you know. :imrgreen:
Quote from: Mr Gee on Thursday, 15 January 2026, 08:42 PMStill wet, miserable and very cold here. :thumbs_down:
You can go off people, you know. :imrgreen:
Moaning sod, I took my Snotbox to work yesterday & once off the white roads covered in solid frost it wasn't too bad :whistling:
I took Snotbox to the pub tonight too, much warmer but quite misty so interesting in a few places.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Thursday, 15 January 2026, 08:42 PMStill wet, miserable and very cold here. :thumbs_down:
You can go off people, you know. :imrgreen:
I've just been sat outside at the pub with a cold drink and some surprisingly nice Bangers and Mash. Pub was a bit rough and ready, but in a nice country way.
Another dry, sunny, 32 degrees day.
Have a guess how much I miss Worcestershire ?
37deg here today, actually too warm to ride. Took the bike for a spin the other night to the gym and back, I think I sweated more on the way there and back than on the treadmill and weight bench...
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Friday, 16 January 2026, 04:02 PMQuote from: Mr Gee on Thursday, 15 January 2026, 08:42 PMStill wet, miserable and very cold here. :thumbs_down:
You can go off people, you know. :imrgreen:
I've just been sat outside at the pub with a cold drink and some surprisingly nice Bangers and Mash. Pub was a bit rough and ready, but in a nice country way.
Another dry, sunny, 32 degrees day.
Have a guess how much I miss Worcestershire ?
As much, as I would if I wasn't here. :happy1: :rofl2: :salute: :onya:
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Friday, 16 January 2026, 06:25 PM37deg here today, actually too warm to ride. Took the bike for a spin the other night to the gym and back, I think I sweated more on the way there and back than on the treadmill and weight bench...
A balmy 8 degrees and fog, today :boogie:
Our early Saturday morning crew headed to Kenilworth today via Mt.Mee and Woodford. A similar route home but via Obi Obi and Mapleton.
It was bloody hot and humid all day long without any relief.
I'm sitting on the couch in the A/C trying to rehydrate with just water until dinner time. Thunderstorms brewing all around and we're crossing our fingers for a decent drop of rain to change the grass from crunchy too green.
This morning I had an Afogato (coffee and ice cream). My learned Italian friend said, that's a dessert. I said life's too short Elio, eat dessert first, even at breakfast.
No no no, you eat desert last, just because you are upside down you shouldn't let your standards drop.
Quote from: Mick_J on Saturday, 17 January 2026, 07:05 PMNo no no, you eat desert last, just because you are upside down you shouldn't let your standards drop.
Forget convention, you should do what makes happy, we are only here for a short time :boogie: :cheers:
I took Snotbox down Lincolnshire today, 150 mile in light rain & fog later on. Lovely day for a ride :lol:
I was visiting East Kirkby to do a restoration tour of Just Jane, the Lancaster they've got there. It was a damn interesting couple of hours hearing all about what they're doing on the long journey back to flight.
I didn't take many pics, but here they are.
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Annoyingly a few pics I did take have vanished too, I think my phone is senile.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Sunday, 18 January 2026, 01:46 AMQuote from: Mick_J on Saturday, 17 January 2026, 07:05 PMNo no no, you eat desert last, just because you are upside down you shouldn't let your standards drop.
Forget convention, you should do what makes happy, we are only here for a short time :boogie: :cheers:
Don't get caught trying to shag a mountain goat then. :lol:
Was a beauty day here on the coast today, went for a run down to Punakaiki, lovely twisty roads, stopped for a pint at the Tavern then headed back home. Course it wouldn't be right to ride past my local, so stopped there for another quencher as well.
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Couple more pic's
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Quote from: Mick_J on Sunday, 18 January 2026, 07:13 PMQuote from: Mr Gee on Sunday, 18 January 2026, 01:46 AMQuote from: Mick_J on Saturday, 17 January 2026, 07:05 PMNo no no, you eat desert last, just because you are upside down you shouldn't let your standards drop.
Forget convention, you should do what makes happy, we are only here for a short time :boogie: :cheers:
Don't get caught trying to shag a mountain goat then. :lol:
No chance of that. Can't catch the damned things, these days. :rofl2: :happy1: :onya:
Quote from: Hooli on Sunday, 18 January 2026, 04:14 AMI took Snotbox down Lincolnshire today, 150 mile in light rain & fog later on. Lovely day for a ride :lol:
I was visiting East Kirkby to do a restoration tour of Just Jane, the Lancaster they've got there. It was a damn interesting couple of hours hearing all about what they're doing on the long journey back to flight.
I didn't take many pics, but here they are.
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Annoyingly a few pics I did take have vanished too, I think my phone is senile.
Strange but it looks like a Mosquito from certain angles. :rofl2: :stir:
2026... Ride 6.
(https://i.ibb.co/Q788tVbv/IMG-4620.jpg) (https://ibb.co/BH44FJz2)
(https://i.ibb.co/Cpjpf1Dv/IMG-4619.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WNrNLxjF)
Ride #6 but on ze Beemer, packed the camping gear and did an overnight up in the hills on the 'scarp. Very nice and quiet, tested out the new campstove.
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...and an overview
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Quote from: Mr Gee on Monday, 19 January 2026, 08:21 AMStrange but it looks like a Mosquito from certain angles. :rofl2: :stir:
Stand in the wrong place in there & it even looks like a B-25 :lol:
Quote from: GSXKING on Saturday, 17 January 2026, 05:44 PMOur early Saturday morning crew headed to Kenilworth today via Mt.Mee and Woodford. A similar route home but via Obi Obi and Mapleton.
It was bloody hot and humid all day long without any relief.
I'm sitting on the couch in the A/C trying to rehydrate with just water until dinner time. Thunderstorms brewing all around and we're crossing our fingers for a decent drop of rain to change the grass from crunchy too green.
This morning I had an Afogato (coffee and ice cream). My learned Italian friend said, that's a dessert. I said life's too short Elio, eat dessert first, even at breakfast.
Just came back from Obi. Usually I just walk over there, but this morning went by car with my best buddy. Was great fun BS'ed the entire time. Food? I have no idea if it's tasty there or what the prices were. If you want to know, I can ask my buddy. Aussume it tastes like shite and is way overpriced (as that's the way usually everywhere). I stuck to a take-out of wood. Can't say anything about how it tastes. Certainly overprized; ask my buddy as he paid and otherwise stayed out of my way. He knows to better stay out of my way as it get's expensive for him. Health insurance has been declining to pay for anything related to him getting in my way.
Overall, it was a terrific outing. All clear, sunny and dry. Lovely! Didn't have to sit on the couch (nope, I don't have a couch - if I had, I would schedule a pickup by our waste department) and rehydrate. A black cup or 2 of hot coffee are more appropriate. Temperatures around freezing this morning.
Maybe we'll meet next time at Obi :)
Sometimes Andre, you and Barbastro create great mystery.I quite enjoy the challenge. 👏
Great! Mission accomplished ;)
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Monday, 19 January 2026, 01:26 PMRide #6 but on ze Beemer, packed the camping gear and did an overnight up in the hills on the 'scarp. Very nice and quiet, tested out the new campstove.
I bought my first Trangia about 1979, brought it here to Oz years ago about 1986, bought another in UK to save me carting it back and forward, fanastic bit of gear, if I remember rightly they where invented in Sweden or neighbouring country.
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Monday, 19 January 2026, 01:26 PMRide #6 but on ze Beemer, packed the camping gear and did an overnight etc
Wasn't me carving my initials ...
Quote from: Hooli on Sunday, 18 January 2026, 04:14 AMI took Snotbox down Lincolnshire today, 150 mile in light rain & fog later on. Lovely day for a ride :lol:
I was visiting East Kirkby to do a restoration tour of Just Jane, the Lancaster they've got there. It was a damn interesting couple of hours hearing all about what they're doing on the long journey back to flight.
I didn't take many pics, but here they are.
IMG_20260117_151306.jpg
IMG_20260117_151312.jpg
IMG_20260117_151443.jpg
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Annoyingly a few pics I did take have vanished too, I think my phone is senile.
How do you like your enemy receiving 160 50 cal. rounds a second.
If you like stuff like that, I highly recommend "Unauthorized History of the Pacific War Podcast". On the above you may want to watch: Commerce Destruction-The Battle of the Bismarck Sea with Jon Parshall-Episode 207 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czhxNsfGRrc)
Cheers for the ideas, but I don't do podcasts.
Quote from: Irish in Oz on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, 08:25 PMI bought my first Trangia about 1979, brought it here to Oz years ago about 1986, bought another in UK to save me carting it back and forward, fanastic bit of gear, if I remember rightly they where invented in Sweden or neighbouring country.
I remember my parents having one when we used to camp as a kid, I just bought this one last week, fantastic little cooker, weighs next to nothing. Metho burner (may upgrade to the propane burner at some stage), came highly recommended by club mates, will take it on the March overnight trip.
they have been made in Trangsviken in Sweden since 1925, design basically unchanged for 100 years, when on a good thing....
Quote from: Hooli on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, 11:22 PMCheers for the ideas, but I don't do podcasts.
NP. There are many things I don't do. Including many that I would like to do ;)
Pick and choose from a wealth of options, That is one of the things I love about this day and age.
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, 11:49 PMQuote from: Irish in Oz on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, 08:25 PMI bought my first Trangia about 1979, brought it here to Oz years ago about 1986, bought another in UK to save me carting it back and forward, fanastic bit of gear, if I remember rightly they where invented in Sweden or neighbouring country.
I remember my parents having one when we used to camp as a kid, I just bought this one last week, fantastic little cooker, weighs next to nothing. Metho burner (may upgrade to the propane burner at some stage), came highly recommended by club mates, will take it on the March overnight trip.
they have been made in Trangsviken in Sweden since 1925, design basically unchanged for 100 years, when on a good thing....
I used a Trangia for years while out and about in the hills. Some of my mates said why do you bring an antique to the mountains, they are so slow to boil water but I found that if I put the Trangia on first thing and then set up my tent the kettle was boiled so I could have a cuppa as soon as I was under cover, brilliant.
I'm using a mini tangier these days, was the cheapest one when I had to replace my cooker that refused to light on one camping trip. It does work well if I carry enough meths for it, as it likes a drink.
yes, mine's the 27-2, which is the smaller 1-2 person version, the 25 series is the original 3-4 person sized one. the -2 means 2 saucepans and a frypan. you can get -1 as well, and also non-stick, hard anodised, engraved etc, but all that costs more $$$$. I just wanted the smallest, simplest cooker. now the burner also comes with a simmer lid that slows the burn rate. Very handy.
Can't believe half a dozen posts and counting discussing a camping stove on a bike forum....
Not sure on the numbers for mine, I think it said 'mini' on the box when I got it.
Lots of bikers go camping & like small decent kit, so makes sense to me.
I've still got a small propane single burner cooker I brought when I was in High School. Can still get the canisters for them & it still works fine. The thing would be well over 50 years old! (53 years actually)
2026... Ride number 7.
403K's / 250 miles.
I'm slowly starting to get "ride fit" again and used to being on the bike as the rides get a little longer, the pain isn't quite as bad.
(https://i.ibb.co/7xnn8TxR/IMG-4673.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cK66MpKC)
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Rode to the gym and back. On the way home had a tosser on a HD with the obligatory safety shorts, flip flops and WWII helmet sit right up on the tail light of the 1402. Clearly had no idea about staggering in the same lane, I moved left in the lane to let him past, he also went left. I went right to give him the message I couldn't see him, as he was sitting right in the blindspot, only reason I knew where he was was the engine note.
Got tired of these shenanigans, so I dropped two gears and 'gently' opened the go handle to leave him well and truly behind.
Sorry I was trying to steal your rear light..
Quote from: Hooli on Thursday, 22 January 2026, 10:28 PMSorry I was trying to steal your rear light..
:rofl2: :happy1: :lol:
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Thursday, 22 January 2026, 02:37 PM2026... Ride number 7.
403K's / 250 miles.
I'm slowly starting to get "ride fit" again and used to being on the bike as the rides get a little longer, the pain isn't quite as bad.
(https://i.ibb.co/7xnn8TxR/IMG-4673.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cK66MpKC)
(https://i.ibb.co/fzJ1vbPQ/IMG-4674.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NdRVSXH7)
(https://i.ibb.co/YTq6T07W/IMG-4675.jpg) (https://ibb.co/S7927fXx)
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I was going, to go out yesterday but couldn't find the regulator for scuba gear. :happy1:
Quote from: Mr Gee on Friday, 23 January 2026, 01:55 AMQuote from: Tony Nitrous on Thursday, 22 January 2026, 02:37 PM2026... Ride number 7.
403K's / 250 miles.
I'm slowly starting to get "ride fit" again and used to being on the bike as the rides get a little longer, the pain isn't quite as bad.
(https://i.ibb.co/7xnn8TxR/IMG-4673.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cK66MpKC)
(https://i.ibb.co/fzJ1vbPQ/IMG-4674.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NdRVSXH7)
(https://i.ibb.co/YTq6T07W/IMG-4675.jpg) (https://ibb.co/S7927fXx)
(https://i.ibb.co/mC0pRqNV/IMG-4676.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VWx6LSwc)
I was going, to go out yesterday but couldn't find the regulator for scuba gear. :happy1:
I usually don't bother riding if the weather forecast is that bad.
Quote from: Pommeroy on Friday, 23 January 2026, 03:36 AMQuote from: Mr Gee on Friday, 23 January 2026, 01:55 AMQuote from: Tony Nitrous on Thursday, 22 January 2026, 02:37 PM2026... Ride number 7.
403K's / 250 miles.
I'm slowly starting to get "ride fit" again and used to being on the bike as the rides get a little longer, the pain isn't quite as bad.
(https://i.ibb.co/7xnn8TxR/IMG-4673.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cK66MpKC)
(https://i.ibb.co/fzJ1vbPQ/IMG-4674.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NdRVSXH7)
(https://i.ibb.co/YTq6T07W/IMG-4675.jpg) (https://ibb.co/S7927fXx)
(https://i.ibb.co/mC0pRqNV/IMG-4676.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VWx6LSwc)
I was going, to go out yesterday but couldn't find the regulator for scuba gear. :happy1:
I usually don't bother riding if the weather forecast is that bad.
You wouldn't get out much, if you waited for good weather in Britain. :happy1: :rofl2:
You just have, to dodge the worst. :onya: :cheers:
I rode to the pub last night, in the rain & flooded roads. Snotbox is surprisingly good on those conditions and I actually enjoyed the ride.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Friday, 23 January 2026, 10:10 PMQuote from: Pommeroy on Friday, 23 January 2026, 03:36 AMQuote from: Mr Gee on Friday, 23 January 2026, 01:55 AMQuote from: Tony Nitrous on Thursday, 22 January 2026, 02:37 PM2026... Ride number 7.
403K's / 250 miles.
I'm slowly starting to get "ride fit" again and used to being on the bike as the rides get a little longer, the pain isn't quite as bad.
(https://i.ibb.co/7xnn8TxR/IMG-4673.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cK66MpKC)
(https://i.ibb.co/fzJ1vbPQ/IMG-4674.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NdRVSXH7)
(https://i.ibb.co/YTq6T07W/IMG-4675.jpg) (https://ibb.co/S7927fXx)
(https://i.ibb.co/mC0pRqNV/IMG-4676.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VWx6LSwc)
I was going, to go out yesterday but couldn't find the regulator for scuba gear. :happy1:
I usually don't bother riding if the weather forecast is that bad.
You wouldn't get out much, if you waited for good weather in Britain. :happy1: :rofl2:
You just have, to dodge the worst. :onya: :cheers:
I remember it well!
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Thursday, 22 January 2026, 10:00 PMRode to the gym and back. On the way home had a tosser on a HD with the obligatory safety shorts, flip flops and WWII helmet sit right up on the tail light of the 1402. Clearly had no idea about staggering in the same lane, I moved left in the lane to let him past, he also went left. I went right to give him the message I couldn't see him, as he was sitting right in the blindspot, only reason I knew where he was was the engine note.
Got tired of these shenanigans, so I dropped two gears and 'gently' opened the go handle to leave him well and truly behind.
I have a "friend" who bought a $70,000 HD RoadKing 121 cubic inches (motors designed by Suzuki in metric) EVO. Lined up at traffic lights I'm on my 24 year old GSX1400 and he says "let's see what you've got" as the lights changed I took off and let's just say he was a longways back before I backed off. I was laughing so hard I nearly crashed.
He's never offered again.
Yeah, thats the brand that always likes the traffic light show.
In defense of the Hardly's they do hook up well and move along quite quickly for a hundred meters or so :rofl2:
Ive owned better V Twins - Yamaha Warriors 1700cc lots of grunt but no speed machine
Quote from: GSXKING on Saturday, 24 January 2026, 09:05 AMQuote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Thursday, 22 January 2026, 10:00 PMRode to the gym and back. On the way home had a tosser on a HD with the obligatory safety shorts, flip flops and WWII helmet sit right up on the tail light of the 1402. Clearly had no idea about staggering in the same lane, I moved left in the lane to let him past, he also went left. I went right to give him the message I couldn't see him, as he was sitting right in the blindspot, only reason I knew where he was was the engine note.
Got tired of these shenanigans, so I dropped two gears and 'gently' opened the go handle to leave him well and truly behind.
I have a "friend" who bought a $70,000 HD RoadKing 121 cubic inches (motors designed by Suzuki in metric) EVO. Lined up at traffic lights I'm on my 24 year old GSX1400 and he says "let's see what you've got" as the lights changed I took off and let's just say he was a longways back before I backed off. I was laughing so hard I nearly crashed.
He's never offered again.
Hmmm... this may inspire me to manipulate my neighbour to offer me that challenge. Of course on a non-public surface (we got a few recently nearby).
He, btw his name is Andre as well, has a souped up Street Glide (?).
Whoever is the "winner", his name is Andre ;)
One of my neighbours has a Harley.
I doubt I'd beat him around here unless I can find some long straights.
He's a bit quick!
I don't know how he rides. His first Hardly was a PITA in the corners. Got rid off in a hurry. Now he has 2 of 'em. One for real riding, one for short trips to the cafe for show off.
Would do an accel-comp anyhow on a (for real) closed off place. A "race" on public roads!? Nope, I don't do that (hate that kind of behavior) and riding with a group that contains more than one (me) person? Defo not my thing!
My HD surprises people off the line. One good thing about them is you can dump the clutch with loads of power & just pin it, unlike a real bike that stands up & throws you off a HD just spins the rear tyre for a couple of feet & goes.
I don't do it very often as I expect an expensive 'twang' from the drive belt, but it's entertaining when I do. It goes much better than I expected & corners better too, it'll never be a fast bike but I can upset people who can't ride spurts bikes which never fails to amuse.
Ride #6 for the year, #3 on the Bavarian Mistress. Rode from home to east vic park, Perth via the fwy, then onto lesmurdie, roleystone, then through the bickley valley via araluen to jarrahdale, then via Kingsbury Rd, then SW highway to del park road to Dwellingup and home via lakes and hopeland road. All up a 295km round trip, averaging 5.2l/100km and ~77kmh. Great day out, few spots of rain, but luckily nice and mild 25deg c
Hadn't had that low of fuel consumption since I changed from leisere to twisty hunting. In the twisty sections only 2nd gear.Still only around 6 liters.
Even though the BMW outweighs the 1400, its surprisingly good on fuel, plus its fully faired,and a lot of that club ride is on smooth winding roads, not tight turns (except the bickley valley and araluen bit, then del park road). Currently the 1400 is still working through its tank of fuel after the injector issue of 2025, but typically that was giving me 5.4-5.6l/100km (50-52 mpg)
Quote from: Hooli on Sunday, 18 January 2026, 04:14 AMI took Snotbox down Lincolnshire today, 150 mile in light rain & fog later on. Lovely day for a ride :lol:
I was visiting East Kirkby to do a restoration tour of Just Jane, the Lancaster they've got there. It was a damn interesting couple of hours hearing all about what they're doing on the long journey back to flight.
I didn't take many pics, but here they are.
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Annoyingly a few pics I did take have vanished too, I think my phone is senile.
A Mosquito in there as well,633 Squadron on tv the other day :onya:
There's a Fredrick Forsyth story 'The Shepherd' involving a ghost Mossie, it was partly flimed at East Kirkby last year using this Mossie as it's so accurate inside.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Thursday, 15 January 2026, 08:42 PMStill wet, miserable and very cold here. :thumbs_down:
37 C and humid as Hell yesterday.
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A brief but wild storm late in the evening (I'll go looking for my outdoor chairs and other stuff that disappeared later)
Only 11mm of rain but enough to top up my tanks, 141,000 ltrs will see me through several months.
Power was off for several hours, but that's not rare here. I heard two of my neighbours generators start up when I was out connecting mine.
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I might chuck a chainsaw in the Ute when I head into town, I know a couple of roads were blocked over night.
Did a lone wolf ride on Sunday on the GSX.
I headed over Mt.Glorious from the Gap to the T. Then back to the cafe and spotted a mint Black (non-coloured) GSX, owned by a chap who lives at Narangba and commutes to Murrarie, his first road bike 🧐.
He's a big unit 6' 3" 120kg makes the bike look small.
He said he was familiar with the Faceache site. And knew of Org group.
Hopefully he looks us up and joins us.
Well as a first road bike, it was sensible to buy one of the slower colours :stir:
Quote from: Hooli on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, 06:46 PMWell as a first road bike, it was sensible to buy one of the slower colours :stir:
:rofl2: :happy1: :lol: :onya: :clapping: :smitten:
My regular coffee / breakfast loop.
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I've just about got them trained. When I pull up they know my coffee and breakfast order and where I'll be sitting. Cafes come and go around here so I have to train a new one every year or so. This one is pretty good. Only 93k's (58 miles each way) so I use it pretty regularly.
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Just went to Bridgnorth, to pick-up a few essentials, refuel the XSR9 and breakfast at Poolhall.
Blue skies, bright sunshine and an almost tropical 5 degree. :boogie: :clapping: :onya:
Overdue a service.
Overdue some new tyres.
Let's not let common sense get in the way of getting another ride in.
DRZ is getting its first service and a change of gearing on Friday.
I'll order some new tyres and book the Busa in for a service while I'm there.
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25 degrees C, cloudy but dry, 202 K's / 125 mile round trip for breakfast.
F.AO. Tony nitrous
I don't know whether you've seen it or not , on the internet Suzuki are unveiling the new busa 2026 special edition, as you're a busa man I thought I'd let you know. :onya:
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Wednesday, 04 February 2026, 12:39 PMOverdue a service.
Overdue some new tyres.
Let's not let common sense get in the way of getting another ride in.
DRZ is getting its first service and a change of gearing on Friday.
I'll order some new tyres and book the Busa in for a service while I'm there.
(https://i.ibb.co/Swnxbc1p/IMG-4859.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7tWzPQTF)
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25 degrees C, cloudy but dry, 202 K's / 125 mile round trip for breakfast.
Love the plate Mr Nitrous! :cheers: :cheers:
Quote from: Globalrider on Thursday, 05 February 2026, 04:11 AMLove the plate Mr Nitrous! :cheers: :cheers:
I have a few on various vehicles. They are cheap enough out here. Just some harmless fun, my Mrs hates personal plates though. :grin:
(https://i.ibb.co/C5YZyRjv/IMG-4877.jpg) (https://ibb.co/vxTGW0Nm)
I only use ones that are appropriate to the vehicle, I leave them on if I sell.
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Of all the dumb things I do and the things I waste money on they aren't a big deal, although there's always a few haters.
Quote from: Tally on Thursday, 05 February 2026, 02:00 AMF.AO. Tony nitrous
I don't know whether you've seen it or not , on the internet Suzuki are unveiling the new busa 2026 special edition, as you're a busa man I thought I'd let you know. :onya:
The blue / white 2026 "Special Edition" has been out a little while. Moore Mafia and a few others are already modding and racing them.
The paint has divided a few folk, I like it, others hate it.
I wouldn't mind one, but like the bright orange Anniversary Edition it's almost all a cosmetic exercise.
Since 2022 there have been some minor changes like the cruise control not dropping out from using the quick shifter, but the later bikes now have extra cat sniffers to meet 5+ and reputable reports are that they have worse factory mapping too.
2026 "Special"
(https://i.ibb.co/RGxcMmS3/IMG-4878.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tw7DNthq)
2024 "Anniversary"
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My Gen-3 was an early Gen-3 so came with the promotional extras the later bikes lack. Billet chain adjusters, billet levers, billet oil cap. Front crash bungs etc etc. All anodised gold to match so wouldn't suit a later colour either.
I like the B&W 2026 special paint scheme, could do with a touch of red
Thursday it's Pickering Brook morning ride, another beautiful day and today I took the Kawasaki Zephyr 750 ... very enjoyable riding there old girl
When I got home I did a bit of work putting the front fairing back on the ZZR1200 ..
A productive & relaxing day.
Quote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 05 February 2026, 09:45 PM(https://i.ibb.co/ZpDj9ncN/IMG-4884.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NdBvR8W7)
Love both of those! Quite different but appreciate both for what they are.
First "running in" 1000K service done on the DRZ.
Standard E 14/47 gearing changed to S 15/44 gearing.
Busa booked in for its next service and its next set of tyres.
When the Busa is done I'll book in either the Gen-2 or B-King.
(https://i.ibb.co/BJtnvqm/IMG-4887.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8w0YG6J)
How do you find the taller gearing?
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Friday, 06 February 2026, 03:16 AMQuote from: MickyJB on Thursday, 05 February 2026, 09:45 PM(https://i.ibb.co/ZpDj9ncN/IMG-4884.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NdBvR8W7)
Love both of those! Quite different but appreciate both for what they are.
The Zephyr is mine, one of my sons resto builds.
Quote from: Eric GSX1400K3 on Friday, 06 February 2026, 01:05 PMHow do you find the taller gearing?
It suits what I do.
I'm only 80kg and all the gravel roads, logging track, forest trails etc I do aren't really that challenging. Even on the dirt I spend most of the time in 5th (top). The E's are definitely geared more for proper off roading.
I noticed it needs a fraction more encouragement pulling away, but nothing that'll ever be an issue.
On the bitumen 80kph used to feel OK, 100 felt a bit cruel. Now 100kph feels fine.
It's only the same gearing now as the similar but slightly tamer 400S so nothing extreme.
If it was a farm bike or for serious off roading I'd have left it alone, now it's ideal for a mix of highway and soft roading.
Quote from: MickyJB link=msg=116146 :cool: date=1770352605The Zephyr is mine, one of my sons resto builds.
Yeah, I think I've said before, I bought a matching pair of C3's when they came out, not as nice as the wire wheel version, that really suits the styling. It certainly gives off a classic Z650 vibe.
130km or so solo round trip for a coffee this morning. Seemed like an appropriate response to a couple of days home from work being cut short.
Also - this photo has made me decide it's time to brave the header bolts and fit the shiny new setup I've had for a while.
Well, seeing as how the Rocket is out of action for a couple of weeks, I decided to take the Black out for a run. So after installing the necessary bits, off I went. She still runs sweet, took her to 7500 & no missing, just smooth & wanting more. Pleased she's still good. Had a decent ride, but as she's not really meant to be on the road, I didn't go past an hour. Ended up at the end of road at the river mouth & took a couple of snaps there. The sea behind the bike is the Tasman Sea & there's nothing between where the bike is & Australia, actually, in the first pic, if you look closely, you can just make out the coastline.
20260207_133848.jpg
20260207_133923.jpg
Anyone want a spare good running 14 can have this one for $3,000 as is. It really needs / deserves to be ridden more.
Quote from: lurch on Saturday, 07 February 2026, 09:50 AM(https://i.ibb.co/SXftdmPK/IMG-4893.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jvJyWwTL)
We had a BBQ with some of my wife's family there recently. It's a nice spot.
(https://i.ibb.co/5h9qmnqH/IMG-4894.jpg) (https://ibb.co/yFRLtYLj)
Wonder what the freight cost to WA is for a 1402? My stable could always use another Suzuki, even a slower one...
Only $2500 Aust Eric, I looked earlier. Postage, no idea.
Nice to see her out Col :cheers:
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Saturday, 07 February 2026, 01:13 PMQuote from: lurch on Saturday, 07 February 2026, 09:50 AM(https://i.ibb.co/SXftdmPK/IMG-4893.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jvJyWwTL)
We had a BBQ with some of my wife's family there recently. It's a nice spot.
(https://i.ibb.co/5h9qmnqH/IMG-4894.jpg) (https://ibb.co/yFRLtYLj)
Question 1) How did they taste?
Question 2) won't she miss them?
:rofl2: :happy1: :lol: :onya:
Monday morning, 6am start......
(https://i.ibb.co/rGT73frP/IMG-4913.jpg) (https://ibb.co/qMXyCFQG)
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Work and back.
Great news, they're getting rid of my truck, so I have no more work.
Only worked part time but I needed it. Bugger. :jack:
Quote from: Mr Gee on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, 01:47 PMWork and back.
Great news, they're getting rid of my truck, so I have no more work.
Only worked part time but I needed it. Bugger. :jack:
Sorry to hear that mate. I hope something suitable comes along soon.
Tuesday, always a great morning catching up with mates .. Jarrahdale 701 Cafe, West Australia.
130K (80 mile) round trip to get a pie, a detour out through Googa Creek with some mostly pretty easy trails and a few questionable ones through the pine forests...
(https://i.ibb.co/4nf2SC2j/IMG-4938.jpg) (https://ibb.co/C3t6946n)
(https://i.ibb.co/PZCwsT3d/IMG-4940.jpg) (https://ibb.co/sv3yp5kZ)
(https://i.ibb.co/ccGVbc0h/IMG-4941.jpg) (https://ibb.co/LzLHQzmd)
(https://i.ibb.co/N2cV57kz/IMG-4942.jpg) (https://ibb.co/B20zbw7R)
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, 11:49 AM130K (80 mile) round trip to get a pie, a detour out through Googa Creek with some mostly pretty easy trails and a few questionable ones through the pine forests...
(https://i.ibb.co/4nf2SC2j/IMG-4938.jpg) (https://ibb.co/C3t6946n)
(https://i.ibb.co/PZCwsT3d/IMG-4940.jpg) (https://ibb.co/sv3yp5kZ)
(https://i.ibb.co/ccGVbc0h/IMG-4941.jpg) (https://ibb.co/LzLHQzmd)
(https://i.ibb.co/N2cV57kz/IMG-4942.jpg) (https://ibb.co/B20zbw7R)
Looks like the saddle, on my XSR9. :happy1: :rofl2: :lol:
See, I'd like something on knobblies to try stuff like that. But around here you'd be lucky not to get it stolen as you rode up the road on it.
Mr Gee, those xr900 got some grunt. Last week coming home, one beside me, Akra exhaust, 2 into 1 road at 80 kph, stood it on back wheel for around 3 ks. I was on two but totally impressive show👍
Too hot to ride, just touched on 39c. Were been warned to expect storms/ flooding.
Quote from: grog on Thursday, 12 February 2026, 06:16 PMToo hot to ride, just touched on 39c. Were been warned to expect storms/ flooding.
We already have storms and flooding but only 5 degrees. :hat:
39C sounds like pure hell to me, I don't do crazy hot temps
Quote from: grog on Thursday, 12 February 2026, 06:16 PMToo hot to ride, just touched on 39c. Were been warned to expect storms/ flooding.
39 is OK with 20% rh, but I'll bet where you are Grog thats its more like 80-90% rh, unbearable.
Quote from: grog on Thursday, 12 February 2026, 06:16 PMToo hot to ride, just touched on 39c. Were been warned to expect storms/ flooding.
It was 36 C on the drive home from breakfast yesterday.
I picked up another 7 trees as I was passing a favourite native plant nursery in another town.
Not ideal weather to be out digging holes but it cooled down a bit by the time I put them in. I wanted to get a few more in before the rain came, although we've only got 5.5mm so far.
My motivational number chasing so far for 2026 is now...
19 trees planted.
13 motorbike rides.
7 x 5K/3.1 mile Park Runs.
Quote from: grog on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, 06:52 PMMr Gee, those xr900 got some grunt. Last week coming home, one beside me, Akra exhaust, 2 into 1 road at 80 kph, stood it on back wheel for around 3 ks. I was on two but totally impressive show👍
Ben, who I've known for many years, makes turbo kits for them. Folk question the design as they are rear mounted under the swingarm, but they actually work really well.
There's 2 around Brisbane that I know to, but there may be others. 200+hp in a naked upright bike that's not that big is REAL entertaining. We had one down on an Oxley Hwy ride a while back and I couldn't keep up. Mad things.
This is the stretched drift one he built for Dave Mac.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwzCac12KKc
Quote from: Tony Nitrous on Friday, 13 February 2026, 07:47 AMQuote from: grog on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, 06:52 PMMr Gee, those xr900 got some grunt. Last week coming home, one beside me, Akra exhaust, 2 into 1 road at 80 kph, stood it on back wheel for around 3 ks. I was on two but totally impressive show👍
Ben, who I've known for many years, makes turbo kits for them. Folk question the design as they are rear mounted under the swingarm, but they actually work really well.
There's 2 around Brisbane that I know to, but there may be others. 200+hp in a naked upright bike that's not that big is REAL entertaining. We had one down on an Oxley Hwy ride a while back and I couldn't keep up. Mad things.
This is the stretched drift one he built for Dave Mac.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwzCac12KKc
There's a place called Dinky's Diner that isn't too far from where I live (35 miles ish) and is on the way, to my friends place.
Several years back, on the way to my friends, I stopped off for a cuppa and there was a 14 parked there. :onya:
Gold paint job with Japanese designs and lettering. It also, had a turbo and nitrous oxide kit. :drool:
Didn't spot the owner but can you imagine how, long his arms must have been, holding on to that with the throttle twisted back. :happy1: :rofl2:
Quote from: Mr Gee on Friday, 13 February 2026, 01:09 PMThere's a place called Dinky's Diner that isn't too far from where I live (35 miles ish) and is on the way, to my friends place.
Several years back, on the way to my friends, I stopped off for a cuppa and there was a 14 parked there. :onya:
Gold paint job with Japanese designs and lettering. It also, had a turbo and nitrous oxide kit. :drool:
Didn't spot the owner but can you imagine how, long his arms must have been, holding on to that with the throttle twisted back. :happy1: :rofl2:
I'd love something with stupid amounts of horsepower.
I've had a nitrous bike, a supercharged H2, a big bore GSX1100, most of the big sports tourers like all 3 types of Busa's, ZZR's, Blackbird etc. Bandits, Z1000's, GSXR's, a Kat, Streetfighters.
I've never owned anything that was really nasty, a bike where you struggle to use all the ponys. I've ridden turbo Busa's and a turbo GSXR that were in that class, but riding someone else's bike is very different.
As I've said before, absolutely wasted on me, pointless... but doesn't mean I shouldn't. I actually got as far as having a plan and the cash in my hand to make a Busa go OK, but I came home with the DRZ.
Maybe one day.
Maybe not.
YOLO Tony...
Mate has supercharged k3, it's unreal to ride,he did lots of ks never a problem. Last I heard had it in pieces looking for 300 rwhp. Its not scary to ride, ive had a couple that were but. 250 Honda Elsinore, scary in the dirt. H1 Kawa with my stupid ideas, 550 Suzi pistons, ported crazy, expansion chambers. That thing was scary.My life long Mate rode it once, refused next time. After nearly 50 yrs he would bring up the H1, the old do you remember that stupid Kawa you had 😂😂
Wow. A dry day, clear skies, bright and sunny with the temperature into double figures. 2 degrees. :onya:
Was going to take the 14 for a spin but no joy. Light not flashing on the antenna, so not registering key anymore. :confused1:
Ho hum. Took the XSR9 instead. Not too far, a steady, bimble around the lanes and Poolhall for a cuppa, on the way home. :clapping:
Snow forecast for tomorrow. :whatever:
Quote from: Mr Gee on Sunday, 15 February 2026, 05:40 AMWow. A dry day, clear skies, bright and sunny with the temperature into double figures. 2 degrees. :onya:
Was going to take the 14 for a spin but no joy. Light not flashing on the antenna, so not registering key anymore. :confused1:
Ho hum. Took the XSR9 instead. Not too far, a steady, bimble around the lanes and Poolhall for a cuppa, on the way home. :clapping:
Snow forecast for tomorrow. :whatever:
Not so different to my corner of sunny Queensland today. Apparent temp 10 deg and raining. Only a slight change from the near 40 deg days out where I've been working :doh:
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 15 February 2026, 08:02 AMQuote from: Mr Gee on Sunday, 15 February 2026, 05:40 AMWow. A dry day, clear skies, bright and sunny with the temperature into double figures. 2 degrees. :onya:
Was going to take the 14 for a spin but no joy. Light not flashing on the antenna, so not registering key anymore. :confused1:
Ho hum. Took the XSR9 instead. Not too far, a steady, bimble around the lanes and Poolhall for a cuppa, on the way home. :clapping:
Snow forecast for tomorrow. :whatever:
Not so different to my corner of sunny Queensland today. Apparent temp 10 deg and raining. Only a slight change from the near 40 deg days out where I've been working :doh:
Weather forecast revised, looks like the snow won't reach us but the Hooli nigh get some. :boogie: :onya: :clapping:
Rain here! Most folk are glad to see some here.
Had 5 or 6mm a few times but now it's proper rain.
My tanks are full and back up to 141,000 ltrs, the lawns and paddocks are starting to green up again, all the new trees are getting a drink. Most we've seen this year. Only lost about 6 trees during the hot dry spell.
(https://i.ibb.co/v6ngZfHq/IMG-4986.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Q3wzrhfQ)
I don't ride on weekends anyway, but it'll make next week interesting. If it stops I'll give it a day or two to clean the roads up, might take the DRZ.
I've had two trees damaged in the wind and rain, neither were huge and both I've cut back and I think I've saved.
Should be in the shed but I'm feeling lazy.
I have plugs, air filter and oil filter, and a few other bits to do to the B-King before it gets new tyres. It'll wait.
No power again tomorrow morning. 6th time it's been turned off in about a year, plus a few unplanned power cuts , The generator has fuel, sat ready to go.
2026:
19 trees planted.
13 bike rides.
8 Parkruns.
I rode around 5klm 😁 after my son and I finished doing some jobs on my ZZR1200.
Oil & Filters, braided brake & clutch lines, new brake pads. New master cylinder & Slave cylinder kits, changed the headlight complete that had some minor scratches on the lens to a new one that came with the bike when I bought it. Fitted LED bulbs in the headlights, LED bulbs in the clearance lights and all the instrument lights.
With all the fairings off it was easy to give the bike a good detail and look over, fixed a couple of minor issues to do with the fasteners.
Then a short 5k ride to make sure all was good. A longer ride tomorrow & looking forward to it.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Sunday, 15 February 2026, 01:29 PMWeather forecast revised, looks like the snow won't reach us but the Hooli nigh get some. :boogie: :onya: :clapping:
Snow you say? I found some eventually Sunday after riding through lots of fog near Garrowby Hill.
Snotbox Seaways Snow (600 x 450).jpg
I had seen it falling at home when I got home from Sat night out, but it was 3c so I knew it wasn't settling near me.
Quote from: Hooli on Monday, 16 February 2026, 06:58 PMQuote from: Mr Gee on Sunday, 15 February 2026, 01:29 PMWeather forecast revised, looks like the snow won't reach us but the Hooli nigh get some. :boogie: :onya: :clapping:
Snow you say? I found some eventually Sunday after riding through lots of fog near Garrowby Hill.
Snotbox Seaways Snow (600 x 450).jpg
I had seen it falling at home when I got home from Sat night out, but it was 3c so I knew it wasn't settling near me.
Two deros in a car park with snow around. What could go wrong 😑
Beautiful day, it's cooled down, warm but not hot, dry, the roads don't have the debris I expected, Tuesday means less traffic, tourists and day trippers.
(https://i.ibb.co/QF8V8Ggc/IMG-4998.jpg) (https://ibb.co/KjNgNHPG)
14th ride of 2026.
Another 251K's, 156 miles.
(https://i.ibb.co/tpgNBwGr/IMG-5001.jpg) (https://ibb.co/yFtM0m9j)
The Gen-2 really has grown on me. It was only ever supposed to be a toy that might go to the drags, I knew it wasn't going to be as nice as the Gen-3, but it's a proper low tech basic bike, no more electrics than the GSX1400 other than a mode button no one ever uses, its a little lighter, a little louder, a little faster than the nicer Gen-3, but has a different "feel" to it.
Got heaps of jobs I've been putting off this week, need to spend a day on the tractor, the 4x4 needs to be serviced in the city, fallen trees to log, rubbish bins to take to the dump, a dozen other jobs..... so.....
I sneaked out and got another quick 149K's / 93 miles in ... :happy1:
(https://i.ibb.co/PvVzCmCg/IMG-5020.jpg) (https://ibb.co/S4Z7vsvB)
Absolutely perfect bike weather.
(https://i.ibb.co/7NWSbWjH/IMG-5021.jpg) (https://ibb.co/YTkNbkP6)
Perfect weather we're having in the West of Down Under ..
The GSX is giving me dark looks ... maybe Saturday Suzi 😁
Those frame beams look massive, so glad they moved to the monocoque styling. 👍
Agree Chris, totally dislike bikes with those external beam, just terrible look. Trellis look not much better but acceptable on some.
You're not looking at them when you're riding it, so I don't mind them.
You're going to wear that DRZ out Tony.
Quote from: Hooli on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, 06:59 PMYou're going to wear that DRZ out Tony.
I think I'm using it more than the others at the moment. It's still a bit of a novelty and I have heaps of roads here still to explore. The higher gearing and being run in now means it's now closer to what I wanted.
The Gen-3 Busa is overdue tyres and a service but that'll get sorted next week. I think that'll be used a lot more then.
Quote from: Pommeroy on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, 06:53 PMYou're not looking at them when you're riding it, so I don't mind them.
Same. Can't say I've ever given it much thought, other than a lot of great bikes use that design, and working on them a lot of stuff is pretty easy. Access to the valves, cams, carbs or injectors etc. I have 5 with a similar layout. The RF900 is really nice to work on and has a pretty light frame despite being steel not alloy. Lift off the tank, lift off the airbox and it's so much nicer to service or work on from above. Even Kawasaki who have given up on the ZX14 went back to a trellis around the motor frame on their H2's not a monocoque style.
Quote from: Pommeroy on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, 06:53 PMYou're not looking at them when you're riding it, so I don't mind them.
Yep, I personally like the look, though I'm not a fan of the Ducati open frame look. The ZZR is not a replacement for the GSX or the XJR but it's a beautiful quick, good handling bike to share the shed with. 😁
I don't think if the frame is pretty or not would be a high priority when you were giving it big licks... LOL!
(https://i.ibb.co/V0Q0qJT6/IMG-5031.jpg) (https://ibb.co/dsLs5jDZ)
Agree Tony. Opened my my mouth before and crap came out. So many great bikes with that sort of frame, twin spar its name??
@Grog check out the chambers on that 🤣
👍 Not sure about cornering clearance but you never are on them.
Headed out for a 200km round trip for a pie. Whilst enjoying said pie I realised I'd forgotten about a vintage bike show another 50km up the road, so it's become an extended ride - roughly twice what I've done in a day since getting back on the bike.
Anyway, this is my pick for the winner.
and a very nice Titan behind it.
Nice 750, M model, had one same colour but no chambers.My L model had them and big ports etc. Kilcoy show, sorry I missed it
Quote from: grog on Saturday, 21 February 2026, 03:51 PMNice 750, M model, had one same colour but no chambers.My L model had them and big ports etc. Kilcoy show, sorry I missed it
I've never managed to get there before. Left home early so arrived as the bikes were rolling in. Hung around for around 1.5hrs and it was mayhem by the time I left.
Chatted with a guy on a 2002 GSX1400 that he's owned since new and has ridden it 210,000km. Not Hooli spec but impressive nonetheless. He was quite insistent that Yoshi cams are worth every penny.
Quote from: lurch on Saturday, 21 February 2026, 10:18 AMHeaded out for a 200km round trip for a pie. Whilst enjoying said pie I realised I'd forgotten about a vintage bike show another 50km up the road, so it's become an extended ride - roughly twice what I've done in a day since getting back on the bike.
Anyway, this is my pick for the winner.
Oh God, is that vintage now. :facepalm:
Then what are we? :happy1: :rofl2:
Quote from: Mr Gee on Saturday, 21 February 2026, 10:30 PMOh God, is that vintage now. :facepalm:
Then what are we? :happy1: :rofl2:
There were quite a few proper vintage bikes as well, but it must be getting close.
A GT750 is still a few years older than me, so I guess I'll continue to be "modern" for a little while :happy1:
A ride to Williams via Dwellingup on Sunday. 360k of nice Country roads. Morning tea at Vergone Farm Cafe and a bakery lunch at Williams, pie I'd rate highly, not so the tasteless vanilla slice. My wife makes the best so I may be biased. :whatever: :smitten:
Quote from: lurch on Sunday, 22 February 2026, 07:11 AMQuote from: Mr Gee on Saturday, 21 February 2026, 10:30 PMOh God, is that vintage now. :facepalm:
Then what are we? :happy1: :rofl2:
There were quite a few proper vintage bikes as well, but it must be getting close.
A GT750 is still a few years older than me, so I guess I'll continue to be "modern" for a little while :happy1:
Sadly, I can't say the same thing. Remember them coming out well. :facepalm: :grin:
Quote from: MickyJB on Monday, 23 February 2026, 01:37 PMA ride to Williams via Dwellingup on Sunday. 360k of nice Country roads. Morning tea at Vergone Farm Cafe and a bakery lunch at Williams, pie I'd rate highly, not so the tasteless vanilla slice. My wife makes the best so I may be biased. :whatever: :smitten:
Always safest to say that even if it isn't true. :rofl2:
Which I am sure, it is. :notworthy: :onya:
Took it got a fang through the hills with 2 mates on MT09s. Swapped bikes a few times, always happy to get back on the 14. Doesn't have quick shift, abs, traction control, dynamic power settings and anti wheelie functions, it's just nicer to ride
Quote from: MickyJB on Monday, 23 February 2026, 01:37 PMA ride to Williams via Dwellingup on Sunday. 360k of nice Country roads. Morning tea at Vergone Farm Cafe and a bakery lunch at Williams, pie I'd rate highly, not so the tasteless vanilla slice. My wife makes the best so I may be biased. :whatever: :smitten:
Nice ride that on MickyJB. When I'm back in Oz this weekend, I might do the same loop.
First ride today, after hand surgery five weeks ago (Dupuytren's contracture). Just to work and back (60kms), but nice to be on two wheels, even if hand a bit sore.
Likely do the same tomorrow.
Quote from: Pommeroy on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, 04:57 PMFirst ride today, after hand surgery five weeks ago (Dupuytren's contracture). Just to work and back (60kms), but nice to be on two wheels, even if hand a bit sore.
Likely do the same tomorrow.
Slow but sure, wins the day. :onya: :clapping: :cheers:
Visit to the Quacks, first. :cheesy:
Then my mate and I, had a quick blast to Tenbury Wells and a spot of lunch. :cheers: :onya: :clapping:
After went on, to Leominster, up to Shrewsbury, Over to Bridgnorth and Poolhall for a quick cuppa, before parting company and heading
home. :grin: :grin:
Nice little, 100 mile circuit for an afternoons jolly. :smitten: :clapping:
Took the R3Gt to Karamea & on to the start of the Heaphy track & back. Filled before I left & the light was on when I got back, said I had 30k's left, just as well I rode sedately after the ½ tank.
Karamea1.jpg
At the Northern end of the road on the Coast & the start of the Heaphy track.
Heaphy1.jpg
20260228_133926.jpg
I'm very fond of Karamea...I've lost count of the number of times I've said to my wife "I could live here", and she's looked at me as if I've lost my mind!
Quote from: KiwiCol on Saturday, 28 February 2026, 01:41 PMTook the R3Gt to Karamea & on to the start of the Heaphy track & back. Filled before I left & the light was on when I got back, said I had 30k's left, just as well I rode sedately after the ½ tank.
Karamea1.jpg
At the Northern end of the road on the Coast & the start of the Heaphy track.
Heaphy1.jpg
20260228_133926.jpg
Weather looks atrocious. :drool:
I don't know how you guys cope, down there. :confused1: :happy1:
Aye, it was a great day for riding, 22 degrees all day, seems to a sweet spot for riding, not too hot & not too cool, just comfortable the whole time.
I dug the HD out & rode it to Squires & back as I've not even seen it since mid Sept when I threw a blanket over it. It still works, after a couple of mile to wake up. Took a few secs to fire & smelt of oil as it caught too, that might be my fault from last time I oiled the K&N or it's just American crap...
I tell ya what, it's still shit & uncomfy which is why I parked it up early as I was bored of it. I can see it going & not being replaced if I don't rebond with it when the weather improves.
Looked comfy Hooli, obviously not.
It's nowhere near as comfy as a 14. Feet forward with a worse ride means you feel all the bumps in your spine & you end up slouching so get backache from that too. I thought they'd be more comfy before I got one too, but the novelty is wearing off.
Plus I still can't get the rear tyre I want, no Avons it's size in stock anywhere. Everyone had said they were going to be available by Feb, I'll have to keep looking.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Saturday, 21 February 2026, 10:30 PMQuote from: lurch on Saturday, 21 February 2026, 10:18 AMHeaded out for a 200km round trip for a pie. Whilst enjoying said pie I realised I'd forgotten about a vintage bike show another 50km up the road, so it's become an extended ride - roughly twice what I've done in a day since getting back on the bike.
Anyway, this is my pick for the winner.
Oh God, is that vintage now. :facepalm:
Then what are we? :happy1: :rofl2:
All I can say is, I'm only 38 and I feel like I need a full fluid and filter change and possibly a new head gasket.
Just down the shops for a lark - rained on me as soon as I flicked the ignition, oh well. Went for a vape. (missus won't let me smoke coffin nails and this high mileage machine requires nicotine and the occasional coopers extra stout to remain functioning and mildly lubricated)
Quote from: Uncle-P on Sunday, 08 March 2026, 01:13 PMQuote from: Mr Gee on Saturday, 21 February 2026, 10:30 PMQuote from: lurch on Saturday, 21 February 2026, 10:18 AMHeaded out for a 200km round trip for a pie. Whilst enjoying said pie I realised I'd forgotten about a vintage bike show another 50km up the road, so it's become an extended ride - roughly twice what I've done in a day since getting back on the bike.
Anyway, this is my pick for the winner.
Oh God, is that vintage now. :facepalm:
Then what are we? :happy1: :rofl2:
All I can say is, I'm only 38 and I feel like I need a full fluid and filter change and possibly a new head gasket.
Give it another thirty years. :happy1: :rofl2: :lol: :onya:
~260km ride with the BMW club from Victoria park (Perth) down to Waroona via the 'scarp. Beautiful day for it, got a bit warm (36deg) around 1:30pm, but bearable.
No park run, but 3 treadmill sessions during the week.
The 1402 got a wash and polish only.
Snotbox went to visit my mum this weekend. It's annoyingly good as a bike, eats up the miles & not bad on fuel (50mpg despite what the reviews said). But it's so bloody ugly & a Honda & ugly. Did I say it's ugly? comfy enough & the wind protection is good on a 5c misty might for 200miles coming home, especially as I did it in under 3 hrs & about a 1/3rd of it has average speed cameras.
It's bloody ugly though, but not as ugly as a GS or Indian Chief thing but ugly.
We need a current pic of the ugly to either concur or not.
Must be a Honda thing Hooli. I've only really had one Honda road bike. 1978 750F1.Ugly bike I thought.Very average, seat, brakes but did the job. One crook fr wheel bearing only thing it ever did wrong. Total fond memories of that one. 812 kit, exhaust, air filter, upgraded cam, went well. Actually revved more than a 14.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Monday, 09 March 2026, 10:03 AMWe need a current pic of the ugly to either concur or not.
I'm sure you've had some?
This ugly, charmless Snotbox. I can't really fault it except for the damage it's had so it's slightly bent etc but it is utterly charmless & like every Honda I've had I don't get on with the gearbox.
Haven't owned a Honda, since the early, eighties. The last one, being a 550 K4. :embarassed:
As I remember them, you could have a sandwich and a cup of tea, while you waited for the brakes to work, in the dry. :popcorn:
In the wet, you would do better, to hold your hanky out and use it like a parachute. :doh:
Rather slow, no ground clearance and very, thirsty.
Ahh, the good old days. Thank God, they are only a memory. :rofl2:
Look at all those soap suds Hooli.... why did you wash it in the carpark ??
Now I see.... you'd gone glamping.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, 09:01 AMHaven't owned a Honda, since the early, eighties. The last one, being a 550 K4. :embarassed:
As I remember them, you could have a sandwich and a cup of tea, while you waited for the brakes to work, in the dry. :popcorn:
In the wet, you would do better, to hold your hanky out and use it like a parachute. :doh:
Rather slow, no ground clearance and very, thirsty.
Ahh, the good old days. Thank God, they are only a memory. :rofl2:
Snotbox has excellent brakes to be fair, same as a Blackbird or Firestorm I think. It corners too well for such a tall thing too, the wide bars help by making it very easy to push into the bend.
Quote from: Hooli on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, 06:31 PMQuote from: Mr Gee on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, 09:01 AMHaven't owned a Honda, since the early, eighties. The last one, being a 550 K4. :embarassed:
As I remember them, you could have a sandwich and a cup of tea, while you waited for the brakes to work, in the dry. :popcorn:
In the wet, you would do better, to hold your hanky out and use it like a parachute. :doh:
Rather slow, no ground clearance and very, thirsty.
Ahh, the good old days. Thank God, they are only a memory. :rofl2:
Snotbox has excellent brakes to be fair, same as a Blackbird or Firestorm I think. It corners too well for such a tall thing too, the wide bars help by making it very easy to push into the bend.
Yes but you're quoting fairly, modern machines. I'm not, am I. :onya:
Quote from: Mr Gee on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, 04:48 AMQuote from: Hooli on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, 06:31 PMQuote from: Mr Gee on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, 09:01 AMHaven't owned a Honda, since the early, eighties. The last one, being a 550 K4. :embarassed:
As I remember them, you could have a sandwich and a cup of tea, while you waited for the brakes to work, in the dry. :popcorn:
In the wet, you would do better, to hold your hanky out and use it like a parachute. :doh:
Rather slow, no ground clearance and very, thirsty.
Ahh, the good old days. Thank God, they are only a memory. :rofl2:
Snotbox has excellent brakes to be fair, same as a Blackbird or Firestorm I think. It corners too well for such a tall thing too, the wide bars help by making it very easy to push into the bend.
Yes but you're quoting fairly, modern machines. I'm not, am I. :onya:
True, which is one of many reasons I've got zero interest in old Jap crap.
Anyway, back to the theme. :onya:
Where did you ride today? :smitten:
14 still not, playing nice. :thumbs_down: so took the XSR900 when I went to the quacks, this morning. :clapping:
That was followed, by a trundle up to and around Telford and the museums, then over to Much Wenlock, Bridgnorth and a quick
cuppa, at Poolhall. :boogie: :salute:
Saw a blue CX500 there and wondered if it might have been Dwain. Probably wasn't but nobody near it, to ask. :whatever:
I must say that XRS just, keeps on getting better and better, in every way with every, mile that I put on it. :clapping: :onya:
It'd have to be Dwain, surely couldn't be 2 of them still around. . .
So, making the most, of this unexpected sunshine and warm weather. 15deg. :smitten: :drool:
Went over to Stratford for the day with my mate. Him on his 14, me on the XSR9. :cool:
Popped into the Milcote Cafe for breakfast and a cuppa. :onya: :clapping:
More sunshine and warmer, today. :smitten: :smitten: :smitten:
Another quickie, as we are just, giving my mates 14 a couple of shakedown runs, after making some, cosmetic changes.
Draycott water.
Nice view, great food and friendly staff.
He's also trying out my seat, as I'm not using my 14. Comparing it to the standard on his, as he is off, to Spain later this year and I told him, my seat is a lot, ore comfortable than a standard.
"Saw a blue CX500 there and wondered if it might have been Dwain."
"It'd have to be Dwain, surely couldn't be 2 of them still around. . ." :coffeescreen:
Wasn't me, I've only ridden the CBR1000 so far this year, and that was yesterday.
D.D.
Quote from: Mr Gee on Friday, 20 March 2026, 07:37 AMHe's also trying out my seat, as I'm not using my 14. Comparing it to the standard on his, as he is off, to Spain later this year and I told him, my seat is a lot, ore comfortable than a standard.
These comments always surprise me as I like the standard seat. If you want an uncomfy standard seat try a ST1300, it'd shame an ironing board.
Quote from: Hooli on Friday, 20 March 2026, 06:36 PMQuote from: Mr Gee on Friday, 20 March 2026, 07:37 AMHe's also trying out my seat, as I'm not using my 14. Comparing it to the standard on his, as he is off, to Spain later this year and I told him, my seat is a lot, ore comfortable than a standard.
These comments always surprise me as I like the standard seat. If you want an uncomfy standard seat try a ST1300, it'd shame an ironing board.
The XSR900 was exactly, the same. It was like riding a bike with square wheels, across a ploughed field, sitting on a plank. :sad:
I did a 2 day ride this week, another loop ride, this is the last one I can do locally, Top of the South Loop. 570 odd k's lots of windy roads involved. The Rocket went superb, just awesome overtaking power on tap all the time. Managed an average of 6.3L / 100k's over the whole run. That works out to 42.85mpg in old money or another way, 15.87k's / L. Recorded the whole trip in 2.7k, I get very clear stills off the video using that too.
Top of the South Loop.jpg
Stayed overnight at Havelock, (Mussel capital of NZ) love that place! Good motel & a pub within close walking distance, win all round.
I must say though, doing 2 days of 4-4.5 hours riding sure took it out of me, must need more seat time to get ride fit again. I was bloody knackered when I got home yesterday.
I've been fortunate enough to be commuting to and from work on my GSX, around 90kms/day Monday to Friday.
The morning trip at 4:20am isn't as arduous as the homeward bound trip. I'm always on guard for the tradies on mobile phones and school Mums reaching back to smack a naughty child.
No weekend riding as my BMW rear shock lost all damping on the last ride. It felt like riding a pogo stick 😵�💫😵�💫.
I'm having the shock upgraded with the Wilber's kit and of course none were available in Oz, so a slow boat from China has eventually arrived. I'm assured I'll have the bike back and annual service complete by Wednesday as we're riding to Warwick on Saturday for a friend's 60th birthday 🤞🤞🤞
Col those consumption figures are impressive for such a big bike and rider. Plus there is no substitute for ride fitness 👍
I guess you'll start a separate thread for the other pics ?
I didn't really take many pic's Chris, just a couple parked at the Motel & 1 inside the pub. Suppose I could get some stills off the video & post those, but they're riding ones, not scenery.
OK, so some stills off the video.
Uranium Point - Lower Buller Gorge
Uranium Point - Lower Buller Gorge.jpg
Twisties in the Upper Buller Gorge
Twisties in the Upper Buller Gorge.jpg
Bye Bye Rav 4 - Upper Buller Gorge
Bye Bye Rav 4 - Upper Buller Gorge.jpg
This is where I'll come out tomorrow once completing the loop
Close of the loop here tomorrow.jpg
Onward to Nelson
Going down the Hope Saddle
Going down the Hope Saddle.jpg
More Hope Saddle twisties
More Hope Saddle twisties.jpg
There's a few of them . . .
There's a few of them . . ..jpg
Nelson foreshore
Nelson foreshore.jpg
Now more twisties on the Rai Saddle - lots here too
Now more twisties on the Rai Saddle - lots here too..jpg
Onward to Havelock
Main Rd Havelock
Main Rd Havelock.jpg
At the Marina
At the Marina.jpg
My unit - circled, huge.
My unit.jpg
Homeward leg
Heading up the Wairau valley
Heading up the Wairau valley.jpg
Just leaving St Arnaud
Screenshot 2025-11-02 221600.jpg
Back at the intersection to close the loop
Loop complete.jpg
I've seen much worse places to ride Col
Brakes all done . So thinking of a ride out for breakfast tomorrow (sun),I was looking at a bike stop called revs on the fosse, on the A429 between moreton in marsh and shipston on stour, more the shipston end I believe. Looks very nice from what I saw on a clip somebody posted on Y.T. :onya: .
Nice ride Col. Havelock is a lovely spot.
Went for an amble down to Fox River Market this morning then to Punakaiki for carrot cake n coffee. Then another nice run back home.
Went for a 20mile bimble this afternoon just to blow the cobwebs out mainly to test my brake refurb (all is well). Biking to work this week as my cars off the road for the week got to replace upper and lower control arms both sides as they've gone. Hopefully good weather this week.
Quote from: Tally on Monday, 23 March 2026, 02:01 AMWent for a 20mile bimble this afternoon just to blow the cobwebs out mainly to test my brake refurb (all is well). Biking to work this week as my cars off the road for the week got to replace upper and lower control arms both sides as they've gone. Hopefully good weather this week.
Not according to the forecast. :thumbs_down: Tough luck. :salute:
Appointment this afternoon, so just a quickie, around the local lanes and B-roads. :onya: :clapping:
07/04/2026 South Warwickshire
An unexpected but pleasant surprise came in the form of a message from fellow GSX owner Chris @BOA asking if I was up for a meet up and a short run around his patch.
20260407 S Warwickshire.jpg
I was against the clock at first and running into some severe congestion around Bromsgrove I was forced into a Motorway run out to Stratford on Avon before a short journey on better roads to the Touchdown Café at Wellesbourne airfield.
Following a mug of tea and a catch up, we rode on to the National Herb Centre near Banbury where another café awaited with a bit of outside seating giving views over the South Warwickshire / North Oxfordshire countryside.
Feeling that we were not quite done with the day and enjoying the sunshine and good riding temperatures, we moved on to The Piston Club at the Stag in the direction of Alcester where we sat with a couple of zero alcohol beers and watched a variety of bikes come and go.
20260407_143602.jpg
There, we parted company and I made a circuitous way back to Stourbridge whilst Chris turned back toward his home in Stratford.
Much as I enjoy riding on my own it's still good to have a run out with another sensibly paced rider, especially when it opens up roads and routes that I would have not considered on my own. Not sure how accurate the map is, it is a bit harder to record when you are not leading the ride, but I think it is thereabouts.
Quote from: Rynglieder on Wednesday, 08 April 2026, 07:32 PM07/04/2026 South Warwickshire
An unexpected but pleasant surprise came in the form of a message from fellow GSX owner Chris @BOA asking if I was up for a meet up and a short run around his patch.
20260407 S Warwickshire.jpg
I was against the clock at first and running into some severe congestion around Bromsgrove I was forced into a Motorway run out to Stratford on Avon before a short journey on better roads to the Touchdown Café at Wellesbourne airfield.
Following a mug of tea and a catch up, we rode on to the National Herb Centre near Banbury where another café awaited with a bit of outside seating giving views over the South Warwickshire / North Oxfordshire countryside.
Feeling that we were not quite done with the day and enjoying the sunshine and good riding temperatures, we moved on to The Piston Club at the Stag in the direction of Alcester where we sat with a couple of zero alcohol beers and watched a variety of bikes come and go.
20260407_143602.jpg
There, we parted company and I made a circuitous way back to Stourbridge whilst Chris turned back toward his home in Stratford.
Much as I enjoy riding on my own it's still good to have a run out with another sensibly paced rider, especially when it opens up roads and routes that I would have not considered on my own. Not sure how accurate the map is, it is a bit harder to record when you are not leading the ride, but I think it is thereabouts.
Good to meet up with you again Pete. T'was a lovely day for a ride. The route you show isn't quite right, but hey!
Not today but last Saturday I went on a ride from Tauranga on the East Coast to Raglan on the West Coast withthe Bay of Plenty BMW Owners Club.
The day started with a bit of drama. No more than 500m from where we met up I got driven into at the traffic lights. We were turning left and the clown car driver behind me decided they needed to pass me running me out of room and hitting my right side. We were only going slow and I was able to use my shoulder and push myself away from the car. Luckily I got away with that one. Just a little reminder to never be complacent.
Anyway we had a good 330km ride on a fabulous clear blue sky day.
Quote from: Kiwifruit on Thursday, 09 April 2026, 05:43 PMNot today but last Saturday I went on a ride from Tauranga on the East Coast to Raglan on the West Coast withthe Bay of Plenty BMW Owners Club.
The day started with a bit of drama. No more than 500m from where we met up I got driven into at the traffic lights. We were turning left and the clown car driver behind me decided they needed to pass me running me out of room and hitting my right side. We were only going slow and I was able to use my shoulder and push myself away from the car. Luckily I got away with that one. Just a little reminder to never be complacent.
Anyway we had a good 330km ride on a fabulous clear blue sky day.
Glad that you were able to have a pleasant ride after the initial scare. It must be the phase of the moon, but I've seen more brainless car drivers this week than usual.
Quote from: Pommeroy on Thursday, 09 April 2026, 06:29 PMGlad that you were able to have a pleasant ride after the initial scare. It must be the phase of the moon, but I've seen more brainless car drivers this week than usual.
You could be onto something. I wheeled my 990 Adventure off the lift on Monday for the first time since I bought it in August last year. Went for a very steady roll no more than 5km from home on quiet roads and had 4 near misses before I'd even turned around to head home!
IMG_4943.jpeg
Agree, something in the moon, air, whatever. Today, lunatic in outside lane of roundabout, its left turn only, not straight thru. How he missed me and everyone around as he drove straight ahead, sure was close.
Rode the Zephyr 750 to Pickering Brook this morning. Always a good day checking out the bikes and having breakfast & coffee.
The Zephyr
We've got some crap weather coming over the next few days, so I took the Rocket for a pootle to Punakaiki, coffee & carrot cake & came home again. Lots of twisties on this route, which is always fun & some spirited riding occurred on other parts during the course of the run as well, so all in all, a good ride.
2026-04-11 154137.jpg
We restarted our every Saturday ride group today. Yatala meet up headed over Mt Tamborine and through Beechmont to Hinze dam.
View cafe is excellent.
Back via Clagiraba, Maudsland and Oxenford then the freeway which was packed in both directions with cars idling on 110/kmh zones. Wasting that precious resource of fuel.
Summer conditions greeted us today, it hit 33c at midday.
A pleasant and well paced ride, we were expecting a police presence. None to be seen fortunately.
Quote from: KiwiCol on Saturday, 11 April 2026, 01:43 PMWe've got some crap weather coming over the next few days, so I took the Rocket for a pootle to Punakaiki, coffee & carrot cake & came home again. Lots of twisties on this route, which is always fun & some spirited riding occurred on other parts during the course of the run as well, so all in all, a good ride.
2026-04-11 154137.jpg
Our news reports your weather as an actual Cyclone 🌀 about to land on the north island.
I hope you're battening down the hatches guys 🙏🙏🙏 we're hoping for the best 🤞🤞🤞
From home up to East Vic park for a coffee, then down to Miami Bakehouse for a pie via the byways. Was a slowish ride,mainly suburban streets. 30deg and a beautiful day to be out. Bike is running sweet again, spent most of the time in 6th gear when in 70 or 90kmh speed zones, still amazes me it doesn't fuss the bike much. My bmw hates tootling around in 6th, starts to buck and struggle. Glad i took the 1400, the breeze was very welcome.
An average pie offset by a decent vanilla slice, a nice ride spoilt by traffic, all in all not a bad day to be out and about.
Need to investigate my clutch a bit more though...I have some ideas...
A pie & Vanilla slice for me yesterday at the Midway Farmstall West Pinjarra, another run for the Zephyr. Suzi is giving me the look 🥴🙄
Nowhere for me. I almost went out as it was going to be dry but it looked a touch suspect so I went to archery instead.
A good decision really as we had a 20 minute hailstorm mid afternoon.
What's a 20 hailstorm? 20 minutes? 20mm hail? :confused1:
Hmm I meant 20 mins and it's too late to edit now.
Quote from: Hooli on Monday, 13 April 2026, 07:25 PMHmm I meant 20 mins and it's too late to edit now.
Got it for ya.
Just an hours run, enjoyable now temps have dropped. Lovely 26 today.Have lifted bars up a tad, weight off wrists, much easier to tip side to side. Home and dropped oil, just turn on the Fumoto, still managed an exhaust burn. Always amazed how black the oil goes in around 4k, clutch n gearbox does that I expect.
Witta today, stunning day for a ride. Spring hasn't sprung yet.
Like a summer's day.
Met at Caboolture, Woodford, Belthorpe, Postman's track, Maleny range road to Witta.
Fabulous breakfast and coffee.
Went home via Stanley River road, Woodford, Kilcoy, Somerset Dam and farewell stop @ Mt.G cafe (it's changed ownership so needs investigation) then MtCotton. 374 kms door to door in comfort with Wilbur's upgraded rear shock in the Bavarian Mistress.
I ended up down the Peak District today, visiting Monyash & Matlock Bath as normal. Bumped in to a bunch I know so stayed out longer than I expected. Was a good day over all if a bit cool still.
IMG_20260418_152936.jpg
IMG_20260418_171246.jpg
Good to see you three at this end of the table looking well Chris :onya:
Decent bunch of bikes for you too Hooli :cheers:
Out last night with the bride doing some shopping and we parked in front of a white Commodore s/w. I said that's the car that ran into me a couple of weeks ago. Boss says how do you know, I said I just know. See if it's good a gouge at footpeg height on the left side doors. She says yep it does. Pleased they've got something to remember me by :facepalm:
What Chris said about our weather, superb. I didn't get out but sat back and listened to everyone else. Two days of bikes heading up into the hills.Id guess we had over 500 go past, you can guess the noisiest.
Thanks Col @Kiwifruit 🙏🙏
Shane and Bobbie send their regards 👍👍.
You got off lightly 🙄 could've been much worse. Did you sign the damage on the Commodore ?
Quote from: GSXKING on Yesterday at 06:39 PMThanks Col @Kiwifruit 🙏🙏
Shane and Bobbie send their regards 👍👍.
You got off lightly 🙄 could've been much worse. Did you sign the damage on the Commodore ?
No I didn't, I'd say I got off lightly....they didn't look like the sort of people you'd have as friends :thumbs_down:
Quote from: GSXKING on Saturday, 18 April 2026, 10:27 PMWitta today, stunning day for a ride. Spring hasn't sprung yet.
Like a summer's day.
Met at Caboolture, Woodford, Belthorpe, Postman's track, Maleny range road to Witta.
Fabulous breakfast and coffee.
Went home via Stanley River road, Woodford, Kilcoy, Somerset Dam and farewell stop @ Mt.G cafe (it's changed ownership so needs investigation) then MtCotton. 374 kms door to door in comfort with Wilbur's upgraded rear shock in the Bavarian Mistress.
Hey Chris, popular mod those Wilburs on the Beemers. Seems to work well on most of them. I had a look into those and couldn't justify the 3-4K investment on a 17yo bike. I spent under 600AUD getting the OEM WP units rebuilt and all is well so far.
100 mile ride this morning for breakfast at revs on the fosse just outside shipston-on-stour. Place is really nice , lots of bikes on display. The only disappointment was the breakfast wasn't big enough for what I would call a big breakfast,but at a tenner it's what I'd expect. Brekkie was lovely to eat though. The ride was a bit chilly,Thame-Oxford-Woodstock- shipston on stour, back via moreton-in-marsh-chipping Norton-Burford-Oxford-Thame. :onya:
Friday evening, Saturday afternoon & Sunday afternoon, first, second & third runs out on the 1400 this year, in fact since last September probably. I didn't venture far, probably 120 miles all in but good to get out & catch up with some mates over a brew or two, certainly lifts the spirits
I had a crazy thought of selling the 14 over winter, glad I didn't such a great all round bike which after 5 minutes in the seat I reminded myself of, you would think after 20 years plus of 14 ownership I would have learnt by now
Still looks pretty good & still gets lots of viewers & compliments every time I take her out, seems to be running better with age strangely as well
I just visited a couple bike cafes & a couple of pubs today. My mate's first ride out this year so it wasn't fast or far, just nice to get her riding again now it's warming up. Her dad came along on his Tiger 900 too, but I took so few pics you'll have to imagine that.
The start
IMG_20260419_103446.jpg
The end
IMG_20260419_173542.jpg
They make quite a good pair don't they? Amused me that people in the pub said they prefer the blue one...
Anyway, that's 500 miles on the thing since I got it on the road a week & a half ago. So I think I can say it's behaving like a 14 should.
@Hooli you've put in all the hard work and deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labour mate.
Enjoy it 🥳🥳🥳🍺🍺🍺 :cheers:
Looks real good out and about👍How's the bar ends suiting?
Surprisingly I'm doing ok with them Grog, I've never tried any I could see a damn thing in before. They do need more shoulder checks than proper mirrors though as I know they don't cover to the side as well.
I use ones in pic, prob bought around 6 sets in last 13-15 yrs, work so well. I've damaged a few,fell over on one, paint goes off, one had lens distortion, they sent a free pair. Great peripheral vision.Personally I'd never go back to antlers.
I don't like having to think about them when filtering & some twat at a bike meet has already walked into one & knocked it out of line. But they'll stay on this bike at least as real ones wouldn't look right.