Out for a run with the Manawatu Classic Motorcycle Club

From Classic Bike Club to Ruapuna

From Classic Bike Club to Ruapuna

From Classic Bike Club to Ruapuna

From Classic Bike Club to Ruapuna

From Classic Bike Club to Ruapuna

Three of us from the VJMC/Blue Haze Manawatu and four from VJMC Hawkes Bay decided to take up the invitation from Manawatu Classic Motorcycle Club to go on a run with them up to a the Ruapuna Park and Museum at Rangiwahia. Don and Alan and myself arrived at the Linton St departure point as the rumble from a mixture of British twins and singles were kicked into life ready for the ride north. After some discussion we decided to head north via Feilding rather than Colyton so we could top up with petrol as the return journey via Apiti would definitely push the range of Sir Als A7. I wasn't to sure how the mighty T500 was going to fare as she was back to smoking on one cylinder tricks again, but after a couple of minutes on the open road she seemed to clear so i carried on. I think the center seals may have gone. That's what happens when you leave a two stroke sitting around for years!

After the a brief stop North End BP we headed up towards Kimblton looking for the others. After a few stops whilst Don got his Helmet Cam running we caught up with the crew just north of Kimbolton. The heat was starting to melt the tar so some caution was needed but it was good to back on this wonderful motorcycling road yet again. Just before Rangiwahia a couple of familiar faces appeared on the side of the road as we caught up with the Hawkes Bay crew. we then rode a few more kms to Ruapuna. It was getting really hot by this stage so people pulled out there lunches and munched away as the owner of the collection gave us the rundown on how it all happened. The cottage was just as it would have been in the 1930s and is a great reminder of how dramatically our living conditions have changed. The 1000 year old totara tree is a must see as it years humble you when you realise how short a time we have been on this land. Our return journey through Apiti was punctuated by a cool drink at The Waterford and making sure Sir Al made to Ashhurst after going on to reserve. A great day out with some like minded company and one that i am sure will be especially remembered during the depths of winter.
http://www.irongates.co.nz/Iron_Gates/Ruapuna_Park.html