It was an interesting mix of classic and modern bikes gathered at Memorial Park for our October end of month ride. Occasional showers were forecast, but it looked as though this was not to be. So where to go? The decision was made to head on over the Pahiatua track and out to one of our favourite runs around the back of Pahiatua and up to Woodville, for our final destination being the Wind Farm Cafe. Kerry took the lead on his ‘Japanese falcon’, otherwise known as a Hayabusa. His familiarity with that part of the countryside had him out front on what must be one of the fastest motorcycles you will find on the road today. It is hard to believe that these bikes have been around for 25 years and will shortly count as classic bikes. For today, Kerry took us through some familiar territory for him, as he spent many years living in the Tararua district. Whilst his bike is certainly capable of making its way through this countryside at a very high velocity, it was amazing how easily it pootled along at our usual end of month ride pace. With the track being dispatched, we were soon on our way through Mangamaire and on to Mangaone Valley Road, with its lovely sweeping corners mixed in with some nice tight sections that might encourage you to get rid of some chicken strips on the tyres. We are so lucky to have such excellent places to ride. Kerry then took us through the maze of roads at the back of Pahiatua, through Mangatainoka, Hopelands and on our way to our final destination, the Wind Farm Cafe.
This is another one of our favourite cafes with an excellent selection of cabinet food and meals, with good coffee to go along with it. There is also a good parking spot out the back for the bikes, as the main road out the front gets very busy, and car parks are a premium at times.
By the time we were ready to go, the wind had really got up. Whilst the others headed back to town via the Saddle Road, I decided to see what the new highway was like in a strong westerly. I had heard some interesting tales of how the wind gets funnelled through the cuttings. I found out those tales were very true! The wind speed was quite something, and next time I will be following the rest of the lads over the Saddle Road with its lack of traffic and mot of all, nice wiggly bits. Roll on next month for our mystery end of month ride!
Roll call
Stuart - Suzuki GT750
Max - Yamaha FZ750
Roger - Moto Guzzi V50 Imola II
Gary A - Honda CX 500
Bones - Suzuki DR650
Sir Al - Suzuki V-Strom 250SX
Kerry - Suzuki Hayabusa
Jimmy - Triumph Bonneville T120
Gary W - Suzuki GSR 750
Rich - Suzuki Vstrom 650
Ian - Suzuki Vstrom 650
Kenny - BMW 700 FGS
