We were treated to another lovely Saturday, and as a consequence there was a good turnout of about 25 bikes for the ride to Kaiaua – whilst Baldric and Road Captain Don had conflicting forecasts on weather apps, other than a few dark clouds on the far horizon, the sky was clear and the sun shining.
Due to extreme traffic at Sylvia Park, we opted to join the motorway at Princes St in Otahuhu, and that worked well – as long as people know what the plan is, where they are going, and that they won’t be left behind, they’re happy. We employed the new Corner marking procedure and when combined with frequent stops to reform and Camel as Tail End Charlie easily visible with his distinctive light arrangement, no one became separated. Our route saw us exit at Drury, and head along a reasonably windy route taking in Burtt and Tuhimata Rd’s, doubling back to cross the motorway at Ramarama, then Ararimu, Paparimu. through to Mangatawhiri, ending up at the garden bar of Bay View Hotel in Kaiaua having covered just under 100km. Along the way we enjoyed great country roads, some tight, twisty and technical, others wide open and a bit quicker, so something for everyone. An hour or so in the sun, a couple of beers and a plate (small size) of fish and chips later, and the early leavers decided to head off – this time opting for the coastal route via Kawakawa Bay and Clevedon. We made good progress – even the never ending road works where the coastal road keeps falling into the sea were not too bad, but the further we got, the more correct Baldrick’s less optimistic weather forecast became, until suddenly the rain started, a few fat drops quickly becoming a deluge. Fortunately it was not cold, so whilst soaked, we didn’t stop to struggle into wet weather gear, although in deference to slippery roads and poor visibility, our speed dropped markedly – eventually, when visibility dropped to almost zero, we stopped in a driveway under the canopy of a tree and waited it out, and a few minutes later, we were off again. As we drew closer to home, the dark clouds and all signs of rain were left behind us, and the sun shone brightly again, taking the chill out of soaking shirts and jeans, and one by one the guys peeled off, lawns to mow, chores to do. |
Don MalcolmA perfect day involves being on my Harley with a long ride ahead.
|