To Hunterville! August EoMR

As winter fades and the final end-of-month ride of the official season wrapped up, we had a solid turnout of bikes and riders eager to make the most of a fine day. After a string of damp winter weather, the hint of spring warmth in the air was a welcome change. Our merry band set off from Memorial Park, heading towards Hunterville. The classic bikes that showed up were more than capable of making good time on the route.

With Sir Al leading the way on his mighty H2, we rode through Colyton and up to Vinegar Hill. Minimal traffic allowed for a smooth, quick run, with Sir Al setting a fast pace on his fifty-year-old machine. Alongside the H2, other classic Japanese bikes included Warren on his trusty XJ900 and Max on his beautiful FZ750. It was also great to see John out on his BMW 600 and Roger on his Guzzi 500.

Among the modern bikes, Ray brought his Triumph T100, Graham his Kawasaki Z650RS, while Rich and Ian rode their V-Stroms. I was on my GSR750, joining the group as we made our way to Hunterville’s Relish Café. Known to some of the café connoisseurs in the group, its reputation did not disappoint.

Being my first visit, I had to try the pie, and the framed medal for their Pulled Pork and Jalapeño Pie behind the counter sealed the deal. I can happily report that it was excellent! Ian also gave high praise to the Broccoli and Blue Cheese pie, calling it one of the best vegetarian pies he’s had in a long time.

With our thirsts quenched and stomachs full, it was time to head home. We chose the back roads alongside State Highway One, offering a far more scenic and engaging ride than the main highway. After the turnoff to Halcombe, the Tararua Ranges came into view, stirring thoughts of the warmer times ahead as we move into spring and summer.

Roll on next month’s EoMR!

Exploring the Scenic Routes: A Motorcycle Adventure from Fielding to Manfield . May EoMR

When the open road calls, there's nothing quite like the thrill of a motorcycle adventure, especially when you're in good company. Recently, a group of nine riders embarked on a memorable journey through some of the most scenic routes in our region. Here’s a recap of our invigorating morning ride, which blended beautiful landscapes, camaraderie, and a touch of local culture.

The Journey Begins
Our day started with nine eager riders gathering at the usual spot. The excitement was palpable as we geared up, did a quick safety check, and set off. Not long into our ride, the adventure bike split off to join another group. Though it was a fine machine, it had its own path to follow, and we wished its rider well on his separate journey.

The Windy Hills of Fielding
As we rode out of Fielding, the weather treated us to a mix of sunshine and gusty winds. The hills provided a stunning backdrop, but the wind added a challenging twist to the ride. Each twist and turn was met with a sense of exhilaration and respect for the elements. It's moments like these that remind us why we love motorcycling – it’s not just about the destination, but the journey and its surprises.

Onward to Ohakea and Tangimoana
Our route took us along to Ohakea, where we enjoyed the open roads and the sense of freedom that only motorcycling can offer. We then veered towards Tangimoana, a quieter stretch that allowed us to soak in the serene countryside. The roads were smooth, and the scenery was a testament to the beauty of our local environment.

A Necessary Pit Stop
Every ride requires a good pit stop, and for our group, the Woolshed became the perfect spot. Catering to the needs of our over-65s, the stop provided a much-needed bladder relief. The Woolshed was more than just a rest stop; it was a chance to stretch our legs, share a laugh, and prepare for the next leg of our journey.

Coffee, Munchies, and Decisions
With spirits high and energy levels replenished, we made our way to a local café for some coffee and munchies. This break was an excellent opportunity to reflect on the ride so far, share stories, and make decisions about the rest of the day. Some riders chose to call it a day and head home, satisfied with the morning’s adventure. However, a few of us had different plans.

Supporting the Victoria Club Day at Manfield
For those of us who wanted to keep the momentum going, we ventured to Manfield to support the Victoria Club Day. The atmosphere was lively, with fellow enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the sport. It was a perfect end to a great ride, allowing us to connect with the broader motorcycle community and support local events.

A Morning Well Spent
Reflecting on the day, it was clear that this ride was about more than just covering miles. It was about the camaraderie, the shared love for the open road, and the appreciation of our local landscapes. Whether it was battling the winds on the hills of Fielding, the scenic routes through Ohakea and Tangimoana, or the lively atmosphere at Manfield, every moment added to the richness of the experience.

As motorcyclists, we live for these adventures. Each ride offers a new story, a new challenge, and new memories to cherish. Until the next ride, keep the rubber side down and the spirit of adventure alive.

Thanks to Barry the Bard and ChatGPT

One Ride Two Bikes. A Suzuki T20 morphs into a Suzuki Cobra!

Aprils end of month ride was tale of bikes from the sixties, seventies and eighties mixed in with moderns and one bike that wasn't able to make it home under its own steam. Along the way the Blue Hazers racing division were encountered out on the track busy fettling machinery as well and all this on a Sunday amongst some wonderful weather. I had better not forget Pipi the dog who came along for the ride as well!

Our usual meeting spot at Memorial Park saw 14 bikes, bods and dog front up for a run around the countryside. A run around the Makino loop and into Feilding for sustenance was agreed to with the wander over to Manfeild to watch some racing after that. We started out with three classic bikes on the run. Sir Al brought out his H2 for another workout and was very 'resplendent' in its chrome and gold shinning in the morning sun. Warren M was also out on his very original Yamaha XJ900 which has its origins back in 1983 where it appeared as a sports bike that slowly morphed into sports tourer by the time it reached the late eighties. Although a shaft drive it acquitted itself really well with the alternator piggybacking onto the back of the crankcase ensuring a more centralised mass and narrower width which made it easier for 'spirited' riding. 

Warren T turned up for the run with his very original Suzuki T20. Dating back to the mid sixties it soon developed a reputation as performance bike with  a lot of success on the racetrack but during the week it was more than up to the task of taking its rider to and from work. Its early exit from the ride with a 'no go' problem saw Warren ringing his wife for a trailer as we carried on. Warren took the opportunity to rejoin us later on his other sixties Suzuki, his T500 Cobra. It joined the Suzuki family a little later on in the sixties and like its younger sibling it initially did well on the racetrack in production racing and also formed the basis for a very successful line of TR racers as well. Also out on the run was Roger Hs had is lovely little Classic Moto Guzzi V35 Imola II along with Paul H on his Classic Moto Guzzi Le Mans III. 

With Warren leaving us at Colyton we had a trouble free run around to Stanway Hall. After a bit of a natter we were on our way again and headed back into Feilding via Tokorangi and Halcombe.  Well, most of us were. It was here Gary A on his Royal Enfeild Interceptor ran into an issue with it not starting. Bruce A volunteered to buddy up and assist. I headed off to catch up with the others and eventually did at the Rosebowl. Warren rejoined us at here on his Cobra whilst some of the other lads had decided on lunch and a beer at Murray's Irish Bar. Bruce A and Gary A eventually appeared with Gary A saying lots of not nice things about Royal Enfields. After being fed and watered we were on our way to Manfeild to catch up with the racing Blue Hazers. Except for Gary A and Bruce A. The Interceptor was still misbehaving and Bruce gave Gary a lift back to Palmy to get his trailer. I don't think the Interceptor will be spending much more time in Garys garage!    

There were also some interesting bikes amongst the moderns. Graham's Kawasaki Z650RS does make one do a double take as you are transported back to seventies. The tank with its colour and shape certainly looks the part and Graham says he is really enjoying the bike. Its not often we see a Buell but Rays Lightening in bright yellow certainly looked striking.  

The Racing Hazers were having a rather mixed day of racing. Tim was definitely doing the rounds on the track but seemed to be lacking a little at the top end. Mark was having to do some problem solving after a major rebuild on the RGV with cable routing the likely culprit. Dion and Darrin were helping out in the pits and soaking up 'ambience' with Dion looking forward to getting back on the track in the near future. 

Roll on next months ride and lets see what appears out the garages near and not to far!

One Owner Honda K2 750: March EoMR

It was great to see Dave out on his trusty K2 Honda 750 for our end of month ride. He is back to using it quite regularly after a bit of a layup whilst he sorted out a few mechanical issues and it is now good for another round of rallies and rides.  Dave purchased the bike new in 1974 from Pink and Collison and he has spent the last fifty years creating the original patina you can see in the photographs. Keeping him company were a couple of Kawasaki H2s from the same period of time. It was great to see Kim out on his H2 after having to do an electrical repair after it disgraced itself last year on its way to the Southern Classic race meet in Timaru. Alongside him Sir Al had his H2 out as well and it was was running really well alongside the moderns that came out for the run. A couple of other classics came out as well with John on his BMW R60/6 and Roger on his Moto Guzzi 500. 

The extended ride was definitely popular with other riders coming along to support the 'classics'. The Twin Gorge run is also popular and it is no wonder that it is part of the Manawatu Scenic Route. For those of us on motorcycles there are plenty of wonderful corners as you ride alongside rivers and up hill and down dales. As you are doing this you are on a steady climb to Rangiwahia at 554 metres above sea level. Totara Reserve provided our first stop where we gathered every one in. Kerrys little dog Pipi was briefly released from her dog box on the side of his bike and Wendy was able to give her some more attention before we headed on up to our next stop at Rangiwahia. We got to have a chat to some of the campers at the hall and domain who were singing the praises of the place as a destination. I don't know how tranquil it was with the eighteen of us (including the dog) arriving en masse but its toilet facilities were certainly much appreciated by the crew who probably had our next stop in mind with the promise of a cuppa tea.

The run down to Hansens Cafe was very much enjoyed by all. It is a lovely piece of road that is definitely  of a twisty nature. One gets to spend a lot more time wearing out the sides of the tire rather than the middle and its many nicely cambered corners, some might say 'encourage' this but one still needs plenty of caution, just in case. The limited staff at Hansens did well to get through our orders and whilst it was a little bit chilly, sitting outside in a little country village supping on a cuppa is definitely one of life's better moments. All to soon it was time to head down the hill and back to home to Palmerston Norths 55 metre elevation. Already looking forward to our next run up into the hills and more than likely Dave will be on his fifty year old Honda K2 as well!