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DECEMBER 2018 ~ FREE TO ULYSSES CLUB MEMBERS

SUMMER EDITION STILL GROWING OLD 2018 HARIHARI DISGRACEFULLY RALLY TOURING TASMANIA 2019 AGM NEW BIKE RAFFLE ACC CONSULTATION

PLUS: BRANCH NEWS WHAT’S BEEN GOING ON

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aon.co.nz CONTENTS

3 National Committee Members ULYSSES CLUB OF NEW ZEALAND INC. 4 President’s Report NATIONAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS

5 The Editor President: Mike Dew #2415 367 Wairakei Road, Burnside, 5 New Members Christchurch 8053 Ph: 03 359 4949 6 Administrator's Report Mobile: 027 283 0235 Email: [email protected]

8 Secretary's Report Vice President: Tim (Tiny) Stewart #8959 25 Tait Drive, Greenmeadows, Napier, 4112 8 National Quartermaster's Report Ph: 06 845 0238 Mobile: 021 053 7842 9 Notice of AGM Email: [email protected] Treasurer: Stuart Burns #3703 14 Branch News 33A Iles Road, Lynmore, Rotorua 3010 Ph: 07 345 3053 20 Letter To The Editor Mobile: 021 972 535 Email: [email protected] 22 2019 AGM Bike Raffle Secretary: Pete Graham #8196 71 Snodgrass Road, RD 2 Ext, Westport, 7892 Ph: 03 789 7749 Articles Mobile: 021 271 2846 Email: [email protected]

24 Touring Tasmania Committee: Wayne Painter #1756 PO Box 100054, North Shore Mail, 26 Triumph Factory Visit Auckland 0745 Ph: 09 444 2770 27 ACC Consultation Mobile: 027 289 1018 Email: [email protected]

28 2018 Harihari Rally Committee: Jim Furneaux #2098 47 Ward Street, Upper Hutt 5018 31 Remembrance Run Ph: 04 971 2893 Mobile: 021 244 2091 32 Still Growing Old Disgracefully Email: [email protected]

35 Pategonia Tour Committee: Jane Laing #6361 75A Weld Street, Redwoodtown, 40 Shag and Oink Blenheim, 7201 Ph: 03 577 6663 Mobile: 022 450 7042 44 Rallies Email: [email protected] 46 Branch Meeting Times and Contacts

Administration/Membership/Gear: ULYSSIAN MAGAZINE PRODUCTION Debby Morgan, PO Box 40218, Upper Hutt 5140 Publisher/Editor: Paul Lance Ph: 0800 ULYSSES or 0800 859 773 between 2:30pm and 5:30pm Email: [email protected] Mobile: 021 072 3636 Email: [email protected] Advertising: Sam Slatter Keeper of the Remembrance Book: Phone: 07 862 6957 Peggy O’Neal #2849 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] PO Box 96219, Balmoral, Auckland 1342 Design: Gemma Wild Website Administrator: Paul Willard Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Printing: PMP Ph: 07 929 2415 (leave a message) or 021 638 223 Distributon: Gordon & Gotch NZ

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 3 MIKE DEW #2415 NATIONAL PRESIDENT PRESIDENT’S REPORT

nly a few weeks to go until reprobates is now a shadow of itself one-on-one training. Christmas and then the according to one of the club stalwarts I We have lots of motorcycling training end of another year. I can spoke to recently. I could do some re- instructors out there offering training for remember someone saying search on the membership numbers, but road riding (tar sealed roads) but none Oto me when I was a lot younger that time I don’t really wish to confirm whether one that I can find for adventure riders. fly’s by when you’re having fun and as of our greatest two-wheeled societies is When I say adventure riders, I don’t just you get older. I don’t know why it’s flying fading into oblivion”. Do you think Paul mean, e.g. dirt tracks etc. but riding on by quicker now, as there’s still the same is correct and if so, what are you going legal gravel and paper roads etc. e.g. number of hours in a day and weeks in to do to assist the Club in not fading into Danseys Pass, Molesworth Station. a year. Enjoy every minute you have on oblivion? There’s got to be a market for this, as this side of the earth and try to remem- Also, a friendly reminder to send in adventure bikes are now one of the big ber that it’s not always about what you your registration forms for the National sellers in NZ and overseas. Wouldn’t it want, as it can be very satisfying doing Rally being held in Hastings over the be good if ACC offered some funding to something for someone else. I’d like to weekend 29-31 March 2019. These ral- upskill those that are riding adventure wish you all a very Merry Christmas and lies require your support, as the week- bikes (gravel road etc.) or expanded the all the best for the New Year. end’s events have been organised for Ride Forever courses to including gravel Congratulations to those members you the members of the Ulysses Club. roads? There are lots of riders out there who were nominated for positions on the The members of the organising com- that have had no training in how to ride 2019/20 National Committee (Natcom). mittee put in many hours of work to on gravel, e.g. roadworks, as it doesn’t Great to see Andy Wilson (Wairarapa) ensure the rally is a fun weekend and it seem to be a requirement when going putting his name forward to join five of is disappointing for them, when we, the for a motorcycle licence. the existing committee members who members of the club don’t make much of Not long after I got my Africa Twin also stood for re-election (Jim Furneaux an effort to turn up. The rally is a great (AT), I attended a suspension setup and I didn’t stand for re-election). venue to make new friends, as we all presentation run by Dave Moss in There’s still one vacancy for a com- have a common interest in motorcycling. Christchurch, as I had no idea how to mittee member and nominations will be The last two years I’ve not spent much set up a modern bike. Dave informed taken from the floor at the AGM. I was a time touring around the country on my me that the suspension on the bike little disappointed, but not surprised at 1500 Goldwing. My new passion is for was too soft for the bike and me and it the low number of nominations received. adventure riding, but I’ve never been one should be upgraded to get the best out Over the last couple of years, I’ve also for off-road riding in the past, and it has of the bike. Quite a few months later seen an increasing number of branches been a big learning curve for me. Luck- (12-18) and after reading an article also having difficulty filling appointments ily there are lots of clips on YouTube to in BRM (April 2018) about MotoSR in on their committees. This is from the top watch, but that’s not the same as some Taupo upgrading the suspension to down, and I think it has a lot to do an AT, the decision was made to with our ageing membership, as the upgrade my shocks. After several older members don’t want to commit phone calls to Scotty at MotoSR, I to things long term. In the last three removed the front and rear suspen- years, the South Canterbury and sion and couriered it up to him to Tokoroa Branches have closed, as work his magic. A few weeks later they were unable to form a com- (delay in getting a rear spring) I mittee and that is disappointing refitted the suspension and straight when only three branch members away noticed a big difference. are required to form a committee Scotty rings me regularly to ask (Coordinator, Secretary / Treasurer how the setup is working and to and one committee member). offer advice on how to fine turn the Do I think things are going to suspension for my riding style. improve? No. Overall, it’s a great improvement There was a very interesting over the standard suspension, on article “Zen and the art of gold card and off road and for me well worth motorcycling” in the December Bike the money I spent. Thanks, Scotty. Rider Magazine (BRM) on page Stay upright. 34, where Paul Owen in part stated “I’m not the only biker headed for Mike Dew #2415 National President the home. The Ulysses Club, that The Ulysses Club of NZ Inc. bastion of “Grow Old Disgracefully”

4 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 PAUL LANCE ULYSSIAN EDITOR Last day for submissions for EDITORIAL the next Ulyssian magazine is February 8, ummer is upon us and it’s great which group they’re going to 2019. avoiding action at a moment’s to read the reports and see that ride with or event they’re going to notice. Expect the un-expected is everyone is getting out there. attend. It’s almost become a matter a good motto… You can see it on the roads too, of who shouts (or promotes) the loudest We’ve got a Letter to the Editor this issue withS bikes appearing around what seems will get the numbers, but it seems like the from a member concerning issues facing like every corner, all deserving a wave decline is across the board, not just Ulysses the Club, with a response from National or a nod. And with the better weather, events. Simply, there are only so many Vice President, Tim ‘Tiny’ Stewart. I believe it’s also seen an increase in organised motorcyclists, so with more events on it if there’s one thing the Club needs to focus rides and events happening throughout doesn’t take a mathematician to work out on, it’s getting the club spirit back, with the country every weekend, which means what the outcome will be. more members getting actively involved in as riders we’re literally spoilt for choice if Another concerning factor is the attending events and encouraging others to we’re looking for somewhere to go. propensity for accidents in a group riding do the same. Unfortunately, as we can see But reading through some of the Branch situation. It’s a whole different situation than from the amount of rides and events going news and that surge in events and rides riding by yourself or with riders you trust, on, it’s a competitive environment and we has resulted in rider numbers declining from so you need to be aware of what’s going need members to be encouraging fellow some of the club rides, as people decide on around you and be prepared to take riders to join the fold.

NEW MEMBERS

Membership Membership Number First Name Surname Branch Number First Name Surname Branch 9834 Tim Coopey North Harbour 9821 Norm Martin Rotorua 9832 Jim Webster Hawkes Bay 9822 Debbie Martin Rotorua 9833 Peter Wooller Auckland 9823 Varian Wilson Auckland 9830 James Flynn Rotorua 9818 Steve Crabtree Wellington 9831 Marion Flynn Rotorua 9815 Yvonne Collins Nelson 9828 John Goddard Wellington 9816 Philip Crabtree Wellington 9829 Rowena Goddard Wellington 9814 Russell Johnson Nelson 9826 Russell Martin Nelson 9813 John McLean Nelson 9825 Romain Martin Nelson 9812 Stephen Rogers Gisborne 9827 Kevin Wells Nelson 9817 Patrick Walsh Auckland 9824 Clifford Garside Auckland 9810 Phil Ness Turangi 9819 Brian Hayman Rotorua 9809 Richard Bleakley Far North 9820 Tracey Hayman Rotorua

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Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 5 ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT DECEMBER 2018

Date Nov 2017 March 2018 May 2018 Aug 2018 Nov 2018

Newest Member 9728 9779 9818 9842 9866

Current Members 2656 2414 2463 2486 2503

Odyssey Medal Holders 27 27 30 30 30

NZ Directory Members 2216 2018 2053 2075 2093

Overseas members 9

Average Membership Duration 11.5 years 11.7 years

Subscriptions for 2019 Thanks & Merry Christmas Well Christmas is almost upon us, which Payment can be made by cheque, or means for some there are still a few direct credit to BNZ 02 0412 0001771 I would like to take this opportunity to wish things to be paid also. 97, using your membership number as a you all a very happy and safe Christmas If your membership is due by the end reference. and holiday season. of 2018, you will need to make payment Still unsure your membership is due Thank you for your commitment and before 17th December to ensure you by the end of the year? Please check the dedication to the Club throughout the receive your updated membership cards subscription expiry date on your current year, and a special thanks to Mike Dew, before Christmas. membership card, posted to you the last Stuart Burns and the National committee, There are several options for members time you renewed your sub. for all your support during 2018. to pay, and those whose memberships Our badge suppliers will be closing th Debby Morgan are due, will either have received an from the 18 December, so any requests National Administrator e-mail or letter from me advising when for new badges will not be received back and how to pay. Options include: to me until mid-January, therefore I urge you to send orders in now, to beat the No Hard Copy Ulyssian pre-Christmas rush. Single 1 year $40.00 Gear Orders Single 3 years $100.00 Joint 1 year $36.00 each If you are wanting to buy something Joint 3 years $90.00 each special for your partner for Christmas, check out our web site however again, to ensure Single 1 year $50.00 you receive the item by Christmas, Single 3 years $130.00 please order now, if the item is not in Joint 1 year $46.00 each stock, I will do my best to get it here Joint 3 years $120.00 each before that important date.

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6 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 Distributed in Australiasia by Whites Powersports Ltd. www.whitespowersports.com

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SECRETARY'S REPORT

Branch AGMs You have until 14th January 2019 to Secretary and MUST be accompanied by: The notice in this Ulyssian was written nominate Club members for this valued • Nomination form (available on Links using information from Branch AGM award; Odyssey Medals are awarded page of National Website). minutes received and extrapolating from to a member who has at least 10 years • A detailed justification setting out why year’s list. NOTE - only a couple of 2018 continuous membership and given valued it is believed the nominee deserves the Branch minutes recorded a date for their and meritorious service to the Club, honour. next (2019) AGM, which makes this job particularly at Branch level. The first stage • A photograph of the nominee. tricky and prone to errors. Please check is for a member to put forward a name to Send nominations to the National and let me know what is wrong (date, their Branch Committee; if they endorse Administrator, PO Box 40218, venue etc.) for your branch, I’ll publish a the nomination, it proceeds to Natcom Upper Hutt 5140 correction in the March Ulyssian. before the closing date. All nominations for this honour must Pete Graham #8196 Odyssey Medal Awards come from the Branch Coordinator and National Secretary

NATIONAL QUARTERMASTER REPORT

At the September Natcom meeting, will possibly have to wait till the New we made a couple of decisions around Year to receive yours. As soon as I get some of the money sitting in the them, you will! There is a letter in the Rider Safety Reserve. We decided package which explains what these are to subsidise the Hi Vis Vests even for, please read it carefully. further so that these now only cost It is gratifying to be able to use some our members $50. This is great value of this money raised through the annual for a good quality vest and we hope Motorbike Raffle, towards these safety it will encourage more of you to wear items for the Branches. Remember also one. ‘Being seen’ when you’re out on to claim from this fund for your Branch two wheels is important, wearing a Rider Safety training and First Aid vest might help to reduce the ‘Smidsy’ courses – talk to Jim Furneaux about incidents for our membership. this. Our second decision was to send As Christmas roars towards us as a each Branch Committee a number of great rate of knots I hope you will check Hi Vis Vests and First Aid Kits. I have out the Gear available on our National Branch Christmas Do. begun to send these out and so far 12 website. Bucket hats, lightweight Happy Christmas everyone and a safe Branches have received the packages. neck-warmers, shirts and everything and happy New Year in 2019. Unfortunately there is a hold-up getting inbetween would make great stocking the remaining Vests, so the rest of you fillers at home and raffle prizes at your Jane Laing #6361

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8 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MARCH 2019

THE ULYSSES CLUB OF NZ INC ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, VENUE: CLUB HASTINGS, 308 VICTORIA STREET, HASTINGS SATURDAY, 30 MARCH 2019 AT 10.00AM

Meeting Agenda 1. Welcome and Greetings 8. Matters arising from report 2. Apologies 9. Coordinators’ Meeting Report 3. Minutes of AGM held at MOSGIEL 2018 10. General Business 4. Matters Arising 11. Odyssey Medal Presentation (if any forthcoming) 5. President’s Report 12. 2020 AGM - presentation 6. Matters arising from report 13. Election Of Officers 7. Treasurer’s Report

General Business Subscription/ Membership membership to avoid a late fee. Please Hastings AGM Renewals note that if your membership is not cur- Please note that only those items of If your Club subscription is due at the rent at the time of the National AGM then General Business or Members Questions end of 2018 you will have received an any vote cast will be invalid and although which are notified in writing, (including email or letter from the National Admin- you may attend the AGM, you will be un- by email) to the National Secretary by istrator. If you recieve a printed Ulyssian able to vote. Friday 1 Feb 2019 will be accepted for this is shown on the address label. If the discussion in General Business at the renewal date is December 2018, then you AGM. have until 1 February 2019 to pay your

Nominations for National Committee, with the proposer & seconder are… NB: There is still one vacancy for a committee member.

Nominee # Nominator # Seconded # Incumbent

President

Tim ‘Tiny’ Stewart 8959 Mike Clark 8916 Sue Hill 9485 (V-P)

Vice-President

L Wayne Painter 1756 John Heebink 1032 Barry Holland 8331 (Committee)

Treasurer

Stuart ‘Smokey’ Burns 3703 Gordon White 1272 Hartley Gray 6974 Y

Secretary

Pete Graham 8196 Rex Collins 5262 Kara Blom 9588 Y

Committee

Jane Laing 6361 Kelvin Watson 3602 John Sinclair 9727 Y

Andy Wilson 7169 Nik Player 8778 Wally Richards 9152

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 9 FORTHCOMING BRANCH AGM NOTICES 2019

Closing date for Address for # Branch AGM date Venue Time Positions nomina- nominations tions Manukau Cruising 4 Mar P, VP, T, S, Branch Secretary, 32 1 Auckland Club, Orpheus Drive, 7.30 pm 4 Feb 2019 Mont le Grand Road, Mt 2019 4 Com Manukau 1061 Eden, Auckland 1024 23 Feb Star Tavern, Cape Foul- 9 Feb Branch Secretary, 49 2 Buller 7.00 pm C, S, T, Com 2019 wind 2019 Romilly St, Westport Canterbury Secretary, 14 Feb Cashmere Club, Hunter C, S, T, 5 14 Jan 3 Canterbury 8.00 pm 86 Milns Road, Halswell Tce, Christchurch 2019 Com 2019 8025

5 May Whakapara Hall, C, VC, S, T, Branch Secretary, 78 4 Far North 11.00 am 5 Apr 2019 Bounty Place, Rauman- 2019 Whakapara 6 Com ga, Whangarei 0110 Tatapouri Fishing Club, 2 May C, VC, S/T, Branch Secretary, 3 5 Gisborne 58 Esplanade, Gis- 7.30 pm 1 Apr 2019 Pohutukawa Grove, Gis- 2019 3 Com borne 4010 borne 4010 Club Hastings, Up- Branch Secretary, 48A 1 May P, T, S, 4 6 Hawkes Bay stairs meeting room, 7.00 pm 1 Apr 2019 King St, Taradale, Na- 2019 Com Victoria St, Hastings pier 4112

1 May The Jolly', 93 Mazen- C, VC, S, T, Branch Secretary, 24 7 Kapiti Coast garb Rd, Paraparaumu 7.30 pm 1 Apr 2019 Kereru St, Waikanae 2019 Beach, Kapiti 5 Com 5036 2 May Riverside Lodge, Te Branch Secretary, 17 8 King Country 7.30 pm C, S, T, Com 1 Apr 2019 2019 Kuiti Baynes St, Te Kuiti 3910 Branch Secretary, 99A 7 May Bunnythorpe Tavern, C, S, T, 3 9 Manawatu 7.30 pm 7 Apr 2019 Schnell Drive, Kelvin 2019 Bunnythorpe Com Grove, Palmerston North

14 Feb Redwoodtown Com- C, VC, S, 14 Jan Branch Secretary, 94 10 Marlborough munity Centre, Weld St, 7.30 pm T, up to 8 Howick Rd, Blenheim 2019 Blenheim Com 2019 7201 Branch Secretary, 63 22 Feb Club Waimea, Queen C, S, T, 4 21 Jan 11 Nelson 7.30 pm Golf Rd, Tahunanui, St, Richmond 2019 Com 2019 Nelson 7011

231 East Coast Rd, P, VP, T, S, Branch Secretary, 30 12 North Harbour 4 Apr 2019 Campbells Bay, Auck- 7.30 pm 4 Mar 2019 Blue Gum Drive, Wark- land 4 Com worth, 9100 17 April Criterion Hotel, 3 Tyne P, VP, S/T, 3 Branch Secretary, 25 13 North Otago 7.30 pm 8 Apr 2019 2019 St, South Hill, Oamaru Com Itchen St, Oamaru 9400 Branch Secretary, 3 7 May Otago Motorcycle Club C, VC, S, T, 31 Mar 14 Otago Tearooms, 3 Clarke St, 7.00 pm Stevenson Rd, Concord, 2019 5 Com 2019 Dunedin Dunedin 9045 Branch Secretary, 9 5 May St John Office, Pereriki C, S, T, 4 29 Mar 15 Rotorua 7.00 pm Everard Place, Ngongo- 2019 St, Rotorua Com 2019 taha, Rotorua 3010

18 May S, S/T, 3 18 Apr Branch Secretary, 145 16 Southland Venue TBA TBA Wicklow St, Clifton, In- 2019 Com 2019 vercargill 9812 Branch Secretary, 6 1 May Inglewood Club, Moa SC, S, T, 4 17 Taranaki 7.00 pm 1 Apr 2019 Brecon Rd, Stratford St, Inglewood 2019 Com 4332

RSA, Marae St, Tauma- C, T, S, 3 9 Mar Branch Secretary, 52 18 Taumarunui 9 Apr 2019 7.00 pm Mahoe Rd, RD2 Taum- runui Com 2019 urunui 3992 Branch Secretary, 51 9 May Taupo Cosmopolitan C, S, T, 3 19 Taupo 7.00 pm 9 Apr 2019 Kurupae Rd, Taupo Club, Taniwha St, Taupo 2019 Com 3330

10 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 FORTHCOMING BRANCH AGM NOTICES 2019

Closing AGM Address for # Branch Venue Time Positions date for date nomina- nominations tions

16 Apr Tauranga Citizens Club, C, VC, S, T, 16 Mar Branch Secretary, PO 20 Tauranga 170 Thirteenth Ave, 7.30 pm Box 160, Seventh Av- 2019 Tauranga South Com 2019 enue, Tauranga 3112

6 Mar Bridge Motel, SH1, C, S ,T, 2 Branch Secretary, 2A 22 Turangi 7.30 pm 6 Feb 2019 Poihaere St, Turangi 2019 Turangi Com 3334 Waihi-Thames 12 May Paeroa RSA, 67 Bel- C, S ,T, 4 12 Apr 40 MacMillan St, Hill 23 2.00 pm Valley 2019 mont Rd, Paeroa Com 2019 View Park, Katikati 3129

6 May Waikato Commerce C, VC, S, T, 14 Brookview Court, 24 Waikato Club, 197 Collingwood 7.30 pm 6 Apr 2019 Queenwood, Hamilton 2019 St, Hamilton West 3 Com 3210 Branch Secretary, 1145 20 May Club Wairarapa, Essex 20 Apr 25 Wairarapa 7.30 pm C, S, T, Com Kahutara Rd, RD2 St, Masterton 2019 2019 Featherston 2 May RSA, 170 Hill St, Wan- C, S, T, 3 Coordinator, 33C Pitt St, 26 Wanganui 7.30 pm 2 Apr 2019 2019 ganui Com Wanganui 4500 Secretary, 21 Woolwich 7 May Petone Working Mens C, S, T, 4 27 Wellington 8.00 pm 7 Apr 2019 Close, Whitby, Porirua Club, Udy St , Petone 2019 Com 5024

9 April Hokitika Chartered C, S, T, 4 10 Mar Westland Branch, 1 28 Westland Club, 42 Hamilton St, 6.30 pm West Drive, RD2 Hoki- 2019 Hokitika Com 2019 tika 7882 10 Apr Ohope Chartered Club, C, VC, S, T, 10 Mar 382 River Rd, Kawerau 29 Whakatane 7.30 pm 2019 Bluett Rd, Ohope Com 2019 3127

Key: C - Coordinator, P - Branch President, VC - Vice Coordinator, VP - Branch Vice President, S - Secretary, T - Treasurer, S/T - Secretary/Treasurer, Com - Committee

1. This branch AGM Notice has been assembled from a variety of information provided by branches and details from last year. There may be errors or omissions as some requests have not been answered; contact [email protected] with changes that may be printed in the March Ulyssian. 2. You may use the following Generic Branch Nomination form.

GENERIC BRANCH AGM NOMINATION FORM 2019 THE ULYSSES CLUB OF NEW ZEALAND INC.

I nominate: Member No. #

For the position of: {please circle one} Coordinator Branch President Vice-Coordinator Branch Vice-President Branch Treasurer Branch Secretary Committee Member

Nomination Accepted by: Date:

Nominated by: Member No. #

Seconded by: Member No. #

All nominations are accepted with no pre-conditions

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 11 OBITUARY

RIP BARRY HAMILTON(BEAR) #3 NZ AND #520 AUSTRALIAN ULYSSES LIFE MEMBER NZ ULYSSES Our National Ulysses “Grandfather” and one of the few founding members of Ulysses NZ. Barry joined Ulysses Australia in 1986. It wasn’t long before there were about He was given this membership for his 30 signed up NZ members and they 45th birthday by his good friend Charlie became a Branch of Australian Ulysses. Brown # 4 NZ. Barry loved the whole Soon there were around 100 members in idea of “Growing Old Disgracefully” NZ. These members asked permission which fitted in well with his “Milk Bar of Australia to break away. Ulysses NZ Cowboy” lifestyle. He and his mates became a separate club in 1988. Barry used to gather at the Beaumont café then became the first Coordinator of the in Dunedin, drinking soda shakes then Oamaru branch. roaring off, creating as much noise as Riding since he was 14, Barry owned possible. about 40 bikes and put high miles/km on Along with Charlie, the two of them each one. His beloved BMW clocked up travelled far and wide to rallies all over 111,000km. NZ. It became Barry’s mission to spread Along with his mates, their favourite the Ulysses “word” to any motorcyclist activity was to get the police to chase who looked over 40 (there weren’t them. “They had motorbikes that weren’t many, he said, in those years). He as fast as ours. We used to peel off and carried Ulysses Australia joining forms go down different streets,” he used to metal one. Also, both knees were replaced, everywhere he went. cheekily tell us. hence restricting him on the styles of bikes Barry loved speed. Many years to ride. ago, he rode around the South This did not stop him and he rode right up Island in less than 24hours in a to last year. Gumball style challenge with his Barry also did a brief term as coordinator mates. Average speed had to be of Otago Branch when he moved to over 100kph! He didn’t slow down Dunedin. Then he bought a house bus much as he aged, as those of us and moved to Motueka in the Tasman area that rode with him can testify. where he drove a bus doing winery tours, He had a bad accident with a car then later a school bus until he retired at when he was 19, breaking his leg in around 72/73 57 places He was much loved by all of us in the resulting years later in getting his Nelson branch and will be sadly missed femur removed and replaced with a Lorraine Lindsay #1117 (Coordinator)

OBITUARY JOHN GIBBONS

Suddenly on Friday, 28th September 2018. Loved husband of Christine. Loved father and father-in-law of Mike and Bronnie, Jenna and Julian, and Andrew and Francine. Fabulous granddad of Archie and Corbyn. A service for John will be held at Legacy Gardens, 53 Te Okuroa Dr, Papamoa on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at 11:00 AM followed by a private cremation. Bruce B All communication to the Gibbons family c/- PO Box 3136, Greerton, Tauranga

12 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018

Ulysses Club 2019 National Rally Hosted by the Hawke’s Bay Branch in Hastings, Hawkes Bay Friday 29th – Sunday 31st March 2019

Venue; Clubs Hastings - 308 Victoria Street, Hastings 4122 Registration: - From 1PM Friday 29th Saturday Night Theme is:- “Last of the Summer Whine” Wear your flat cap, scruffy suit, baggy stockings, pinny, fish net stockings, mini skirt, frock or best suit and come as Clegg, Compo, Nora Batty, Foggy, Truly, Pearl, Marina or Howard etc. .”The even’n be champion, plenty o chelpin, tha nite go-off chuffin well”.

Name: Ulysses Membership: # _ Tick if Coordinator and/or NatCom member

Partner Name: Ulysses Membership: # _ Tick if Coordinator and/or NatCom member and / or non Member email: Phone: ______

Address: Branch: ______

____ Registrations will be acknowledged by email. For any queries, please email; ____ [email protected] More info at; www.ulysses.org.nz

Options and Payment Number per Person Amount National Rally / AGM Registration Fee @ $20 Special Package deal: BOTH BADGES @ $16 Local Hawke’s Bay Badge x 1 @ $10 National 2019 Rally Badge x 1 @ $10 Friday Evening/Meal/Social/Games (Bar Open 4pm, Food 6:30pm) @ $18 Lamb Shank on mash with vegatables and a jus. Saturday Evening/Full Buffet Meal/Dancing/Fun Bar open 5pm @$35 Saturday Evening/Meal/Dancing Non-Member attend only @$45 Sunday Breakfast full cooked (Member) (Natcom subsidised $10) @$10 Sunday Breakfast full cooked (Non-Member) @$20 Rally T Shirt Active Wear – circle your choice Men S M L XL 2XL 3XL 4XL @$22 Woman 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 @$22

TOTAL add total here $

Please detail any dietary requirements;

Please tick I registered online at; www.ulysses.org.nz/2019-agm-registration CUT OFF DATE 28th February 2019 With Payment by online banking into account 03-1517-0006290-002 (Please include Membership number and surname)

OR Scan and email registration to [email protected] WITH Payment by online banking into account 03-1517-0006290-002

OR POST completed form to: ULYSSES Hawke’s Bay Branch, 61 Algernon Road RD2 Hastings 4172 WITH Payment by Cheque Payable To; Ulysses Club Hawkes Bay Branch

Please Note; Non-Members ONLY attending Saturday evening function and only paying $45, are not entitled to attend the Friday function.

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 13 BRANCH NEWS

AUCKLAND'S ANSWER our Auckland Branch Rally and hopefully then get started. I am sure Bruce will be Hi all from us in the big smoke. there are some good stories floating pleased to hear from you. The Auckland branch is ticking along around that. We are having our Branch A small note here on the badges that nicely and we have had some great rides, Xmas BBQ on the 8th of December, so are issued for these events. They have coffee and conversations and general hoping for some fine weather for that one. increased in price and have minimum socialising. It is good to see members I would like to wish everyone a very merry order quantities, this is having an adverse participating in these activities. Xmas and a happy New Year, I do hope effect on funds raised and costs. The A couple of us recently went along to Santa is very kind to you. We will be committee have noted this and are Auckland HD to have our say on this away in our caravan for 3 weeks over the contacting the suppliers to see how year’s ACC consultation process. This Xmas/New Year period, so if any of you we can help each other continue doing whole consultation is a joke, they say they are traveling around north of Auckland, business together. I am sure there will be want to get honest and valid arguments look up a wonderful little place called more on this later. against putting up the ACC levies, but Tinopai, turn into the small camping and The Christmas Party. More information here is the problem with that statement. go straight ahead to find us. in the branch newsletter, possibly by the The ACC spokesperson told us that the The coffee is always on. time you get to read this it may be over. largest percentage of motorcycle related Cheers The Rides Committee have put together claims are from riders in the 40 to 60 a diverse list of rides for the next few year age group. She was then asked why Clive Thomas # 2383 months and I am sure there is more than they are holding a consultation meeting Auckland President one with your name on it. You never know on a Monday as most of those that are who you are going to meet, especially affected are at work. She had no answer CANTERBURY TALES if you haven’t been out with group for a to this question and moved on to different There are a few things to cover, so let’s while. If you have Wednesdays off or a subject. get started. free day, why not join the Knitting group I then asked her how they can justify an We used the Kick Start day down for an entertaining day. increase when they had $607m surplus here as a bit of a recruitment drive and it Last month I advised the branch last year. Her answer to this was that turned out to be very successful, not only committee and members that I will not be there has been 9% increase in claims bringing in new members but also to help standing for Coordinators position at the over the whole vehicle account. I then us push the 1000k ride and the Helicopter next branch AGM. pointed out to her that motor vehicle Hunt to the local motorcycle clubs. I have been asked what’s involved? registrations had increased by 5% over To those new members who attended There is a great set of notes available the past year and as there are over the branch meeting I believe you have listing the duties of the committee, 3 million registered vehicles in New joined the best club in NZ, if not the world. Secretary, Treasurer, and of course the Zealand, a 5% increase is more than Remember that you only get what you Coordinator/Branch President. You don’t enough extra revenue to cover the extra put into it. Try to meet somebody new need to be a long serving member, you claims. But sadly, no answer was given every time you attend a meeting or go just need to willing and able give your and again moved on to a different subject, on a ride, you may get a bit of a surprize time and energy. There are experienced so expect an increase in all fees next and find yourself with a lot of new friends. members in the Branch who will act as year. Please remember that as a member of advisors and help you whenever they The one good thing that they are The Ulysses Club you are a member of can. If you are interested please feel proposing is that if you do a Gold training the Club first and the Branch second. free to make contact in the strictest course and have been riding for a Although, I must admit to being more than confidence, and please be aware you are minimum of 10years, then you can get a bit one eyed. not committed to anything until you decide a $100.00 per year reduction in your The 1000k is over for another year and what you want to be and of course accept motorcycle registration for 2years. While without Steve P and Chris C it wouldn’t your nomination. I think this is definitely a move in the right happen. Well done to a great team that The Summer rally and riding season direction, it is a pity that it only involves have increased the participation in this is getting into full swing and there must one training company and does nothing event. With all the routes available around be a rally or fundraising ride happening to encourage learners to do some formal the South Island, there must one for you somewhere around the country every rider training. and your mates to do each year, at least weekend. I am sure there must be a local One of the disappointing decisions that for the next few years. road or two that you haven’t travelled or we have had to make is that there will The Helicopter Hunt is now underway been down for a long time, maybe it is not be an Auckland Rescue Helicopter and is still open for you to enter and time to check it out. You never know what Charity Ride next year. This has been an complete. There was a small error with you may find. annual ride since 1995, but these days Bruce’s email address published in the We had the first of what I hope is many with the amount of charity rides that are local newsletter and now that this has “Bikers In Blue” ride here in Christchurch happening, it is getting harder and harder been fixed he may get more entries. If back on the 9th of September along with to get sponsorship and prizes to hand out. you plan on doing this as an individual or runs all over the country, these were well We may redo it in the future and possibly with a team of friends in one day or over a supported both locally and nationally make it a 2-yearly event. weekend or even as you get a bit of time by Placemakers. It was great to see the By the time you read this we will have had and have yet to register, do it now and coverage in their national newsletter with

14 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 BRANCH NEWS

a Ulysses member in just about every proved challenging, due to the road and that the motorcycle was doing in photo, well done. conditions. but a lot of fun was had, excess of 160 km/h. Hard to argue that If you are in the area our branch as always. Some of us attended the the cheese-cutter barrier was responsible meeting is the 3rd Wednesday of the remembrance service in Taupo with the for that one. I didn’t have any statistics to month at the Cashmere Club and we weekend turning on awesome weather quote to dispute this. The installation has would like to see you. allowing us to ride the loop. A change for begun. We wish you and yours a Merry us, as we don’t have many options in the Well, the silly season is close. Christmas and prosperous New Year Gisborne distract although we have some Take care out there and assume the Ride safe and stay upright amazing spots to ride too. other guy hasn’t seen you. Be safe. Stephen Orpwood #2119 You all should come and explore. Cheers, Branch Coordinator Cheers from the East coast. Chrissy #5993 Barry Robertson #8175 FAR NORTH FROLIX

Hi All, Lunch by the sea KAPITI CAPERS Here we are near year’s end again. Hope Greetings all, you’ve done lots of riding like we have. At It’s been an eventful quarter here at least 5,000km have been covered by my the Kapiti Branch with arrangements motorcycle in that time. underway for the release of our summer We’ve had our Far North Rally in activities program and Christmas lunch. September which was once again well Our new website, in conjunction with attended and enjoyed by all. What local newspaper advertisements, has would we do without my wife Anne Grbin proven its worth by providing an attractive organising and coordinating everything, front door to the branch, and simplifying plus a great team of helpers. Thank you the contact process for prospective all. HAWKES BAY HAPPENINGS members. The results show a steady Members have been more and more It’s in the air! appetite for new membership information. involved in events outside our Branch This feeling of another summer is upon It was also our pleasure to welcome a with quite a few going down to the us. It was 30 degrees here yesterday. I new member, Martin Rushton #9857, to Remembrance Run, the Ronnie Run in don’t know about others, but I’m riding the branch. Martin, we hope you enjoy Auckland and the Motorcycle Show at the almost every fine day now. many years of comradery with Ulysses. ASB Showgrounds in Auckland to name We’ve had a few really good club Thanks to our Vice Coordinator, Barry a few. rides in the last couple of months. Rides Brown, for liaising with local media and Several more members are participating include Café 287 near Wairoa, and the drafting the newspaper advertisements. in the Pro-Rider training courses. Patangata pub via Porangahau beach. Having such a geographically confined So we can say we’ve had a successful Mostly shorter runs at this time of year region along the west coast we tend to year up in the Winterless North. because of the bad weather further afield. venture out of our own area for longer See you on the road somewhere soon. These rides have been fitted in between rides. Over the past three months we Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a a few charity runs. We’ve had the HB have travelled through the Manawatu, Happy New Year Harley Club Spring Run which supported Wanganui, Hawkes Bay and Bay of Plenty Canteen, The British and American Club districts. The comments below in relation Nick Grbin #1688 Run which supported Cranford Hospice, to a recent ride through the Gentle and we have two more runs this coming Annie’s, with a lunch stop in Hawkes Bay, GIZZY NEWS weekend (10th and 11th November). sum up our problem-solving prowess Twilight rides/shed nights, ride forever I was called in to an information briefing when it comes to world motoring issues. courses, fundraising rides and BBQ. Bring to the Transport Department a few weeks “Enjoyed by 7 bloke’s and 1 gentleman, on a busy month for this branch. back. They wanted our opinion of the all scholars with eminence in the use Since last writing this report, not a lot improvements they’re planning for the of the Queen’s English. At the Tikokino has been happening. Spur of the moment section of highway between Bayview refreshment establishment, we decided rides have been well attended. (north of Napier) and Pakipaki (south the fate of electric car, their batteries, the A ride to Tokomarua Bay for lunch of Hastings). The stretch of highway worlds diesel use, ACC costs, Insurance, they were talking about is 30 kilometres speed limits, cyclist contributions long. They intend to install cheese-cutter to registration, and road cones. All barriers right along the middle of this dispatched within 10 minutes!” Alan road. Stevenson I pointed out the unpopularity of this We continue to explore what the Kapiti choice of barrier among bikers. They said Coast has to offer with our social events. that their statistics prove it to be the safest Our pick for this issue is the Bus Stop option for stopping head on collisions. Café, Te Horo. This is a café set amongst The team They went on to say there had been only trees on a lifestyle block, near the beach, one fatality due to this type of barrier, open Friday to Sunday. As the name

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 15 BRANCH NEWS

every second year and it is always well supported. It follows a poker run format with card draws at the four extreme points of the North Island. North is Houhoura, West is Rahoutu, East is Te Araroa and South is Lake Ferry. This event has been running since the early 1990s and the 54 entrants use the 3 week window to cover something like 3,500km each to complete the 4 points. The final card draw and prize giving was held at the Bunnythorpe Tavern on the infers it’s an old bus conversion, with indicated that that route would be rather 27th of October. The winner was Brian good surrounding amenities (seating damp, so an impromptu change saw the Goldsworthy with Jacqueline Tanner and shelter) for coffee and good food. team head out over Track to a shed tour second and Brian and Carina Percy third. Well worth the 10-minute ride off SH1 at Mabey Contracting near Balance and The worst poker hand (nothing above an if passing through or as a destination then on to the Sawyers Arms at Tikikino 8) went to Maurice Fletcher, a Manawatu for lunch. Thanks to Jolene and Andrew on SH50 for a great pub lunch. The return member, and the hard luck award to McPhee for organising these activities. trip was by some very scenic back roads Richard Tweedie of Kapiti who left his Thank you to all our branch members between Waipukurau and Dannevirke. score card at home (with a pair already for your continued support and the The sun shone all the way and a great drawn and then drew another of the committee members for your planning day was had by all. same at the prizegiving). and organising efforts behind the scenes. The September ride was “Around the The Branch was very well supported Season’s greetings and safe riding from Bays” in Wellington. A group of around by City Honda, AFC Motorcycles, the Kapiti Coast Branch. 8 bikes left City Honda in Palmerston Premier Tunnell Houses, CB Norwood North at 9.30am and travelled via SH1 and Tui Brewery, along with donations Tony R. #9172 and then Grays Road and the Haywards from some of our members. The great Kapiti Coordinator Hill to Petone and on to the Wahine thing about this event is while you ride Memorial in Eastbourne. This was the your own route and timing you all get MANAWATU MURMURS start of a trip that followed the coastline together at the end to share stories from The Manawatu Branch has had a very roads all the way around Wellington. This the road and great comradeship. busy last 3 months. included Oriental Parade, the Mirimar Our coffee mornings have been well The August club ride was the Manawatu Peninsula, around Wellington Airport, supported and enjoyed by members and Local Challenge. One of the committee and the south coast to the road end. The their partners with around 20-25 people was tasked with organising this event, lunch stop was in a café at the old Air for coffee or brunch on a Saturday and around a dozen members duly Force base at Shelly Bay. The weather morning. The month meetings have been reported to the assembly point in was OK and the only real issue was the enhanced by the recent purchase of a Palmerston North. The original plan, as amount of traffic on the narrow roads. TV that is wall mounted and used for briefed at the monthly meeting, was a After a refuel stop the group headed presentations or photo displays. trip south then over the Paekakariki Hill home via SH1. The weather is now changing for the and Rimutuka’s before returning via the October is all about the 4 Points Rally. better and the days getting longer. We Paihiatua Track. The weather forecast The Manawatu branch runs this event have just had our first Pie & Pint evening ride and hopefully more to come before the Xmas silly season.

Murray Cross #7908 Manawatu Branch Co-Ordinator MARLBOROUGH MUSINGS Merry Christmas, Happy New Year & Greetings from the Gateway to the South. I thank Jane Laing for doing my previous report. Julia and I were lucky enough to have an extra summer holiday in Canada visiting family and grandchildren. All good things have to come to an end, we’re back now, and hopefully summer will appear here soon. The north-westerlies have

16 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 BRANCH NEWS

started, so I guess the heat is round the this publication). 97 rooms in the bottom Ronnie House and corner! Also, we are about to run our annual Toy 13 in the units attached to the Starship We have had some new members join Run this coming Saturday. Hospital. All these rooms are full of families our Branch over the last few months, so This is possibly going to be our last one at the moment which shows how important welcome to them. We have lots of social after 33 years. We have become victims of our fundraising ride is. activities and enough rides to keep our ‘Bureaucracy Gone Mad’. Apparently, we Our Runs Committee have some great members happy I think, haven’t heard need a Traffic Management Plan submitted rides planned, so if you haven’t attended a otherwise yet! to both the councils whose jurisdiction we branch ride lately look up our website and By the time the Ulyssian comes out, ride through (Nelson and Tasman). After check the rides out then come along and the Top of the South Toy Runs will all spending mega dollars on this we were join in the fun. have been and gone, Nelson, Buller and refused by Tasman District Council, as it I know our Branch AGM is 4 months Marlborough, thanks to John and Jane for did not meet their criteria! Result being, away, but members need to think about organising our local toy run and Tim Wills that the Police cannot control the lights how they want the branch to progress, for acting as Father Christmas. and we cannot control the roundabouts. all positions are up for nomination. I I would like to thank Murray Brooks Once we cross into the Nelson jurisdiction, have been nominated as National Vice for all the effort he went to in organising we will have police escort and control President so as per our club rules I our Branch Memorial Service held a of the lights as well as control of the must stand down as Branch President. few months ago. It was great to see 53 roundabouts. Ridiculous. Long story short, Who is going to take up the challenge friends, family and members attended a we are running it anyway. of leading our branch? Tracy Unstead is brief service at our memorial bench, with Apparently, the other Toy Runs that also standing down as Branch Secretary. afternoon tea at The Clubs of Marlborough are only run in large centres by BRONZ, Do you have the skills to fill this important following. have to have an Event Planner whom they position? Andy Kelly is also standing Our Branch turned 30-years-old pay, and they also have paid roundabout down after 3 years. Other committee in November when we held a highly controllers. Apparently sponsors cough up members have not made a decision yet, successful club night at The Woodbourne the dollars for this. but a healthy branch will have multiple Tavern with a birthday cake and a raffle For a smaller branch such as us, it’s not nominations for all positions. following dinner. going to happen. Don’t forget if you are coming to our area Don’t forget to renew your membership We have NEVER had an incident at any check out our website for club night, dinner if it runs out December 2018. Just have of our 32 Toy Runs and have had great night and rides. www.ulyssesnorthharbour. a look at your membership cards on the police escort and public support. org.nz or give me a call. We’re a friendly bottom right. Lots of new bikes are appearing at our bunch so come and enjoy our hospitality. Our branch Back To Basics rally is on coffee mornings now and we are now North Harbour members wish everyone early in the New Year, on February 22nd holding much longer Sunday rides. The a Happy Xmas and safe travelling over the –24th, 2019. We hold it out at Havelock at weather has been fantastic, and we very holiday period. Newtons’ Farm. There’re heaps of room rarely have to cancel a ride. to camp beside the river, campervans Stay safe out there L.Wayne Painter #1756NZ welcome or bring your bedding and sleep Lorraine Lindsay #1117 North Harbour Branch President in the woolshed. Always a great home cooked roast meal with a dessert to follow NORTH HARBOUR NEWS OTAGO OPUS on the Saturday night. Everything else is We have just finished our Ronald Greetings from the Otago Branch and BYO. Get your registration form off our McDonald House Charity Ride. Personally, we are looking forward to a full and Marlborough Branch website. I was disappointed with the turnout but sunny summer ride season. Day rides Anyone passing through the area feel there was a lot of options today so 140+ completed at the time of writing were to free to join us at any one of our Thursday bikes was OK. Thanks to the riders from Lawrence, Kurow, Middlemarch. Day rides rides with “The Retreads” group. Coffee out of town who made the effort. over coming months will be to Oamaru, morning on Saturdays at “The Vines It is becoming harder and harder Mataura, Gore, Moeraki, Tapanui, Kaka Village”. Sunday rides long and short to to organise these rides as costs are Point, Waikaia, Naseby and Owaka. various places in Marlborough and beyond. outrunning the money raised and the Twilight rides will be to Waihola, Till Next Time “Keep The Rubber On The event only survives with the help of our Balclutha, Palmerston, Hindon. Overnight Road”. branch sponsors: Heritage Hotels, PB rides are planned to Omarama or Twizel, Technologies, Apex Trophies & Engraving, Arrowtown, Ashburton, plus the ten day Kelvin #3602. Cyclespot Group, North Auckland Harley ride to the AGM in Hastings. Marlborough Coordinator. Davidson & Techmoto. With the help of Tasmania - Two years ago, some these companies and the money raised members initiated plans for an overseas NELSON NIBBLES through raffles at our November Branch ride in Tasmania. In October this year, five As I write this, our Nelson Branch is in Club Night we raised approximately $5000. Otago couples flew to Melbourne to meet mourning. We have just lost our Ulysses ALL the money collected will go to up for two days prior to flying down to grandfather and founding member Barry Ronald McDonald House, the branch Hobart. See the report on pages 24. (the Bear) Hamilton #3 (see the Obituary in covered the small set-up costs. There are Mike #7808

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 17 BRANCH NEWS

NORTH OTAGO NUTS AND a number of Branch social events and down the days. Because many of us haven’t BOLTS participate in scheduled rides. been to a rally before we are looking forward Hi there from Nth Otago. A significant Branch event took place in to not only hosting all our visitors, but also We have had a quiet time since the last August, when past and present members attending our first one too! Branch news with few events happening, but gathered together to celebrate the 30th Cheers hopefully this will change in the immediate Jubilee of the Branch. It was very pleasing Suzie #8532 future. We held a bike show recently and to have a good turnout to mark this special Taranaki President donated all the funds made to our local occasion. We were fortunate that a number St. Johns Branch who are planning a new of members had kept a variety of historical TAURANGA BRANCH location for their headquarters. As mentioned correspondence, photographs etc. They Greetings from the sunny Bay of Plenty. in the last report we are hosting a White very generously made these available to be The transition into spring with its challenging Ribbon Ride on the 22nd November and placed on display at the dinner. These items weather has not stopped the regular we are hoping for a good response from all were certainly of great interest and were a attendance of riders, the bulk of the rides riders in our area. source for much reminiscing. working in with the ominous weather Cheers to all members, have a good time. Looking to the future, a number of social patterns. Regardless of weather, we are Bruce #4383 and ride events are planned, culminating in getting a great turn out on Sunday morning a Branch Christmas Function to be held in coffee at Gate Pa. early December. ROTORUA FLASHPOINT The Tauranga Branch has been pro- That’s all for now, keep safe. Our Branch maintains our steady-as-she- active within the community presenting Ross L. #1177 goes progress, with the same stalwarts the Trustpower TECT Helicopter Rescue making sure the runs are varied and well- Service fundraising of $1000, and also were attended, and social events are fun and TARANAKI TALES represented at the re-opening of the St memorable. Now that the fine weather has Kia Ora fellow Ulyssians John ambulance building in 17th Avenue. In started (?) our mid-week BBQ/dinner rides A Taihape overnighter has been a highlight addition, working with the Waipuna Hospice have recommenced. I must admit that at recently for our branch. 12 of us on 8 bikes in focus groups to help awareness of the least one of these has resulted in riding back meandered our way happily along back hospice and work in our local community to base for a BBQ at a member’s home! roads, taking in the scenic route. One lady On 20 November some 20 members, will The National donation of the Fluoro had a few harsh words for us when we came get their membership badges ranging from Jackets, and First Aid Kits was welcome, and across her as she drove her 100 sheep 10 to 30 years, all visitors welcome at the we now have a system where at least two along a narrowish road with the help of her Tauranga Citizens Club corner 13th Ave and jackets, and a First Aid Kit, will be available horse and three dogs. I thought we were Cameron Road Tauranga starting at 7:30pm. on each and every ride. Sounds super quite courteous – turning off our bikes and The up and coming Tinman on December sensible for Ulysses, doesn’t it! waiting till she and her group got past… But 2nd and Half Ironman January 12, 2019 We have sorted out our Xmas function, no, road bikes should stick to highways we being run in Tauranga has an appetite for anyone in Rotorua on the evening of were told. Of course, there were a number support in the way of riders being needed to December 15th would be welcome, but of thoughts about where she could stick her assist the organisers with ferrying their staff. we do need to know numbers, as we are sheep, horse and dogs, but being the polite All riders from Tauranga and out of town are dining at a local club, one renowned for folk we are, we just carried on and laughed welcome to commit themselves to these fine beverages and food. We are all quite about her later. worthwhile engagements. determined to see off 2018 in a fine and Pulling in to Taihape’s service station we Our popular Winter Camp held at Waihi fitting manner. Give me a call. encountered about 50 Native Sons and Beach is to be held on the weekend of 3 to The sad news is that we cannot see that Tribesmen in their regalia, along with various 5 May 2019, we are encouraging people to our Okataina Rally will be resurrected in the supporter vehicles, all taking a break. Luckily pre-book to avoid disappointment. near future. Our intention to combine with one of us was wearing a Cookie Monster As the “New Boy” on the block, I would other branches somehow for a replacement helmet cover, so they knew not to mess with like to thank the support of the committee event is still some distance off, I fear. In the us LOL. Usually it’s the fumes of diesel and in assisting me in this very interesting and meantime, we continue to travel to all points petrol that accompany any gas stop, but challenging role. of the compass and do our best to bolster weirdly this time there was more of a ‘herby’ Cheers those rallies still continuing to operate. Long aroma wafting around. Graham Vincent #9835 may they continue. A few beers at the motel got us ready See you on the road somewhere, for a night ‘on the town’ in Taihape, then it WAIHI THAMES VALLEY demonstrating an ever-increasing lean angle! was back to the motel for Rugby and Cards Hello Members, Cheers, Against Humanity. Some members will have Another quiet couple of months, but now to take out loans to cover their fines from the the weather is getting warmer I dare say FLASH #1272 weekend!! A great time was had by all, so roll we’ll be out riding a lot more soon. SOUTHLAND BRANCH NEWS on the next one. Back in October a few of our members Hello Members, Our ‘Energy Rally’ on the weekend of the attended this year’s Te Aroha Cruise In, A reasonably quiet period since the last 23rd to 25th of November at TSB TOPEC a beautiful day and I think this one would report, members have been able to enjoy has many of our members excitedly counting have had to be the biggest and the best

18 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 BRANCH NEWS

one I have been to yet. Great catching up Weekend Road/Adventure Ride. This is We had a good turnout of 71 bikes with everyone. another event that has been going for registered and a count was done of 80 Bike nights are on the runs list again some years, with adventure riders taking bikes. After riders briefing, we held a over summer so looking forward to a few the gravel roads/4WD tracks to/from the minute’s silence and then riders rode mid-week rides. accommodation location, while the rest of around all War Memorials in Matata, If there are any neighbouring branches the group take scenic sealed routes. So Edgecumbe, Te Teko and finishing at out there keen of doing some inter-branch far, we have 16 people booked in, so it Whakatane RSA. rides, let me know. should be another great ride. This was followed by a BBQ and prize Until next issue ride safe and be awesome! On behalf of the members of the giving all held at the Thornton Beach Marlene Johnson #8660 Wellington branch, I wish you all a happy Motorcamp. Furtherest was Karen/ Wahi/Thames Valley Coordinator Christmas, a fantastic 2019, and safe and Alan Wilson from Carterton, oldest was enjoyable riding over the summer. Pete Dickson WHK at 78years, and the CAPITAL CONFABULATIONS Four wheels move the body… two wheels youngest on back of bike was Evenlyn In October, 16 of us from Wellington joined move the soul. Crawford at 15-years-old. They recieved a by ex-Welly member John Kennerley Jim F #2098 cap with a Poppy on the back. and his wife Rina, now resident in sunny Thank you for all those who came near Hawkes Bay, enjoyed an overnighter at the WESTLAND WAFFLE and far hope you all had a great day. To all old homestead, Oruawharo, in Takapau. Greetings again from the scenic west our sponsors a big thank you. This really is great place to stay, and well coast. Enjoy the summer riding. worth a detour and a look through if you The tourist season on the Coast is upon Be safe. are passing through that area. us again, so we will all need to be extra Sue We have had several overnighters vigilant and allow for the poor driving we Whakatane Coordinator there now. That all started when four of encounter on our roads daily. us dropped in for a look around about Five of us have just returned from the WHANGANUI NITTY GRITTY five years ago and were made most MotoGP at Philip Island. We had great welcome by Peter and Dianne, who are days at the racetrack enjoying the racing Hi all, excellent hosts. We were impressed by the especially this year the Moto 3. I am still writing this story from “The Far renovations they were doing and booked Kerry Chapman attended the Cold Kiwi Side” but by the time you read this I’ll be the place for a mystery weekend later that on his Harley side chair. He has only back. year. missed 6 of the 43 Cold Kiwis and thought I did miss a few events while away but had Even though we have been going there the new site was very good compared to a good time with Mum in Holland. Hope every year since, we still get new people the Horopito site which used to get very our Toy Run had a good attendance and coming along and there are already muddy. He even managed to win the we collected a lot of toys and money for several who want to go again next year. “Wheelie Competition”. the Sallies. Our organised rides had, as Oruawharo gets very busy with weddings Our local West Coast Touring Motorcycle usual, mixed outcomes. Still hard to get and other events over summer, but if there Club is preparing for their 17th Annual bums on bikes. is nothing else going on, you will be made Woodstock Rally to be held on the 25th, We have a few rides planned for most welcome. 26th, and 27th of January, which brings November: Dawson Falls, our Toy Run and All going well, the Branch’s annual ride hundreds of bikes into Hokitika. It’s a great a ride to the Bridge Cafe in Ballance. In delivering Christmas presents for the weekend with live music, fireworks display, between, we also had the Pureora and the young kids in the lower North Island who poker run, hot showers and great West Taranaki rallies. Pity I’ve missed them, next have Muscular Dystrophy will have been Coast hospitality. year perhaps. held a couple of weeks or so before you We enjoyed our Sunday club ride to December the Tri-Series starts and as get to read this. About three dozen children Okarito where we had a picnic lunch on usual there will be quite a few of us receive gifts donated by the Branch from a glorious West Coast day. Our next club hopping over to Taupo, Manfeild and later, the 19 riders who will be making the three- ride at the end of November is Nelson, good old Whanganui on Boxing Day. Hope day trip this year. Picton, Hanmer exploring some of the a lot of members will visit us. The MDA Ride has been going for over Sounds back roads. Secure Parking (see the advert in this 25 years, and members of the Hawkes Enjoy the sunny weather. issue) and very nice viewing from our Bay Branch have been joining us on the Annette Paterson #8020. stand on Taupo Quay (with a big screen Friday night for the last couple of years. across the road). January is a quiet month, This year marks a change in plan for the WHAKATANE BRANCH no rides or other activities organised so we deliveries in the Taranaki area, as the Hi, can all have a nice holiday. Early February riders hosted all the families at a local On the 11/11/2018, we held our annual it all starts over again. marae on the Saturday night, rather than Mountain to the Sea Ride, this year for the Wishing all members and family a very delivering the presents to individual homes RSA as it was 100 years since the War nice Christmas and a brilliant New Year. on the way home on Sunday as has ended and it was a way of Honouring the Cheers. previously happened. ones who fought in the War and the ones In January, we have our Anniversary who are still fighting in different wars today. Piet #1255

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 19 LETTER TO THE EDITOR

see my proposal to send our magazine A well-known personality in the Far in bulk to the Branches (as much as South suggested not to increase our practicable) would save money. So most yearly fees and have the branches OUR CLUB. of the handing out of the magazine would running Nat Com for 3 years at the time o begin with I’ll tell you how this take place during Branch meetings. He and then change to the next Branch. article started. In June 2018 a assured me that the printed magazine Personally, with the present situation, I meeting was called in Taupo would add to the public exposure of our like to see Life Members banned from a to look into a way to invigorate Club. position on Nat Com as they don’t have Tthe Ulysses Club again. About 12 people For me reading the magazine online is the right vision. All committee members, attended the meeting and a general one big hassle with switching columns on Nat Com/Branch to support each other discussion brought no new light into the the screen rather than in page form from more and create a Vice-Treasurer, a Vice matter. Personally, I voiced some new the top to the bottom. Secretary etc. ideas and was asked by Tiny (Vice P.) to My aim is with all this to get as many As we go at the moment, the Club will put it all on paper with an added outlook members active and talking again, emails be broke in 4 years or less, so we need for the next 10 years. and Facebook have their limitations and to change our direction urgently, and with I started with a new copy of the rule can be counter active. Sure we had a a changed plan we will last for at least book and the latest financial statement family type of Club in the early years and another 10 years. from the National Treasurer. Next I made I miss a lot of that but we can’t turn the This is only my opinion and am sure an appointment with Paul Lance, the clock back, but we can learn from the there is more than one way to solve editor of the Ulyssian. past. the issue, remember there is still some It is very clear to me that our Ulysses So, I suggest: money in the kitty to help with some Club in 2002 with the then elected - Promote personal contact from every bumps on the way. Many have talked to new National President, we did all the member, the time to sit back and wait is me about their discontent and I can’t see wrong things. Up till then our Club was over. the much longer part of all this, they miss in a financial state that some members - Offer (older) member options to take simplicity and common sense. wanted new directions with a very large part in activities sharing transport. For those not knowing me, I am 25 sum of money we had, to be invested, - Limit Nat Com to a reduced budget years active in the Club, was Coordinator so everyone would benefit from all this of $25,000 - no paid positions anymore. of the Waihi-Thames Valley Branch surplus money - about $300,000. - Paying members only issued for about 8 years and stood for Nat In the last 15 years the chosen direction automatically with one bike raffle ticket Com elections in Gisborne in 2007, not has cost us a lot of members and most of with their yearly subscriptions. successful but won the bike raffle in 2009 the money. In my opinion the way back - No more 3 yearly options to simplify - Kawasaki ZX14. to the early happy days will require a full the system. Please start talking and move in the turnaround from our present direction. - Supply members with a printed copy right direction again for the next 10 years. Paul Lance agreed with me that of the Ulyssian every 4 or 6 months with running an organisation beyond your suitable print quality, distribution and Cheers, Robert (dare to be different) income spells trouble, and he could format. Vanderwagt #2339.

REPLY TO ROBERT VANDERWAGT believe that Robert has the same 2002 heralded the first National income is a recipe for failure, there is intention as all members, that being Committee that was not centred around great deal of work done by Stuart and the the longevity and success of our Hawkes Bay, many will have seen this as rest of the National Committee to ensure club, and I thank him for his valued a new direction and step forward for the this is not the case for the Ulysses Club Ithoughts on this matter. club. True to say the club was in a secure NZ Inc. As stated by Robert, I was at the Taupo financial position at that time the club had The current position with the Ulyssian meeting in June and made an assurance a net equity of $124,343. While net equity is that ALL members as part of their to him that I would forward his ideas on of the club has varied over the years the subscription are entitled to receive a printed how the club should be run over the next December 2017 Accounts show that it was copy. However, those who choose to only 10 years to Nat Com, if he could put them $132,430. As you know we have invested receive their Ulyssian in electronic format, on to a hard copy or email that I could these funds in term deposits and the receive a discount on their subscription. present on his behalf, that offer and my interest income from these investments I can only use my own branch as an word still stands. is used to support the club operations. example for distributing the Ulyssian As you all know my membership of the However, as we are all aware interest magazine at branch meetings, our club has only been in the last six years, rates have declined considerably over attendance at monthly meetings averages but to reference Roberts recollections of recent years and as such our income from around 30% of our Branch membership, 2002 I have referred back to ‘Growing Old that source has been affected. this would leave around 70% of the Disgracefully” published in 2013. Running any organisation beyond its Ulyssian magazines undelivered to the

20 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 branch members. This is where electronic giving out information to members who Restricting Life members from serving distribution makes up the shortfall, don’t have email and helping less able on Nat Com would in my opinion be very ensuring all members have a copy members to attend functions is normally detrimental to the club, the reason they available to them should they decide to dealt with by local branches, as they have become Life members is for the access it. This is closely reflected by the usually have a much closer relationship massive contribution they have made to fact that more than 75% of the overall and a deeper understanding of their the club, and their ongoing commitment membership nationally have requested members needs. and hard work. This should be supported to receive their Ulyssian in electronic As a point of clarification there are no at all levels. format. paid Nat Com members, all positions are For the longevity of the club we I agree with Robert that email and voluntary. need the input of members, to provoke social media has its restrictions, and I The club bike raffle is a major conversation, put forward ideas, solve understand it is not for everyone, but undertaking every year, requiring problems and generally make a better as a form of simple communication of significant compliance with the Gaming environment for all members, I would like information, it has become invaluable. Rules and a lot of hard work. Ensuring the again to thank Robert for his opinion and As a result of the Taupo meeting first net surplus is only utilised for “Authorised insight, and encourage all members to mentioned in this letter, the Hawkes Bay Purposes” under the Gaming Rules is have their say. Runs committee and myself organised key, failure to keep to the rules means we Rest assured we are all working toward the first annual Taupo Fellowship ride, could lose the Bike raffle for good. the same goal, the ongoing strength and where all North Island branches were Many members like to buy more than long future of the Ulysses Club in New invited for lunch, I can not give an exact one Bike raffle ticket per year to increase Zealand. count of riders attending but an estimate their chances of winning, members must of between 80 and 100 would be near. also be aware that the profit from the Cheers Tiny This was all organised by email or social Bike raffle goes to the Rider Safety and Tim Stewart #8959 media. Training reserve, a very valuable cause Ulysses Club NZ Inc Personal contact with members, within the club. National Vice President

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Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 21 2019 AGM

Raffle Winner to selectONE from the following list of NEW Motorcycles Brand New Bike Prices correct at time of print. Make & Model RRP Make & Model RRP Make & Model RRP BMW Scout Bobber- B/Smoke, $19,995 2018 VZR 1800 Boulevard $19,995 2019 F 750 GS, $23,990 Scout Bobber - Two Tone, $20,995 2019 R-nine-T Pure, . $19,990 TRIUMPH 2019 R-nine-T Scrambler, $23,990 KAWASAKI Bonneville T120, $20,990 2017 Z1000R, $19,995 Tiger Sport, $20,990 Raffle 2018 ZR900RS SE, $18,995 DUCATI Street Triple RS, $20,990 Here we are again, giving YOU the opportunity to be the very 2018 Monster 659 LAMS $12,790 2017 Versy 1000 $16,995 lucky Ulyssian to win a brand new MOTORBIKE! 2018 Monster 821 $20,290 YAMAHA KTM As last year, there are only 2500 tickets and these have always 2018 Scrambler 1100 $20,990 Tracer 700 LAMS, R/B/B. $13,999 2018 Scambler Café Race $19,990 2018 1090 Adventure R $23,999 XSR700 LAMS Sil/Gr/Blk. $12,699 sold out, so we want our Ulysses members to have priority to 2018 Scrambler Full/T $18,490 2018 790 Duke $16,999 XSR900, Grey. $14,499 2018 690 Enduro R $14,999 purchase. Family and friends come second. Cost to enter is $10 2018 Scrambler Classic $18,490 MT-07 HOAH Hi/O Blue. $12,299 2018 Scrambler Mach 2.0 $18,490 MT-09TRAH, Tracer, $18,199 per ticket, and there are 5 tickets per book at $50. All proceeds go MOTO GUZZI MT-09 ABS SE, Blk/Sil. $15,999 to the Ulysses Rider Safety & Training Fund. HUSQVARNA Moto Guzzi V7 III Racer $17,990 MT-10AH, Night Fluoro. $20,399 2018 701 Vitpilen $18,299 Moto Guzzi V7 III Carbon $16,990 XT1200Z Tenere Matt Blk. $23,999 2018 701 Super Motard $17,999 SUZUKI The tickets are on sale from 30th December 2018 and will be 2018 701 Enduro $17,499 Supplied with 6 months rego & 1 year 2018 GSX 1300 H/busa $20,995 insurance to the value of $500.00incl drawn at the National AGM & Rally in Hastings on Saturday 30th INDIAN 2018 GSX R1000A $24,995 courtesy of AON Insurance. (Terms & March 2019. Scout Bobber- T/Black, $19,995 2018 VZR 1800BZ B/vard, $21,995 Conditions will apply) Past winners: 2018 Jack van der Meer, (Tauranga) BMW F 800 GT, 2017 Kerry Chapman (Hokitika) Indian Scout, 2016 You can get tickets from your Coordinator/Branch President or Chris Carey (Canterbury) Suzuki, 2015 Graeme Healey (Southland) Honda, 2014 L Maddaford (Manawatu) Honda, 2013 direct from the Raffle Organiser:Wayne Painter, PO Box 100 054, John Thompson (Canterbury) Suzuki, 2012 Clive Morrow (Tauranga) Yamaha, 2011 George Foster (Timaru) Suzuki, 2010 Wairau Park, Auckland 0745. (M) 027 289 1018 Suzanne Phillips (Wellington) Triumph, 2009 Rob van der Wagt (Waihi-Thames) Kawasaki, 2008 Derek Hughes (Nelson) You can send a cheque with name, membership number and Moto-Guzzi. stamped self-addressed envelope or you can pay direct to the Ulysses Raffle Account (02-0412-0001771-068). Make sure you WHO WILL IT BE IN 2019? put your name and membership number as reference so that we know who has the winning ticket. BE IN TO WIN! Don’t leave it too late or you could miss out.

DIA National Raffle licence #LT80006558 2019 AGM

DIA National Raffle licence #LT80006558 ARTICLES TOURING TASMANIA

en Otago members (five couples) travelled to Tasmania in October. Once in Hobart, we checked into the Quality Hotel, Tafter which the lads went next door to Moto Adventure to pick up our rented motorbikes from Ian who had organised all of our route and accommodation for the next week. One option was then to go for an orientation ride, but we chose coffees followed later by some beers on the pretty waterfront, while the ladies went looking at shops. Nothing new there… For the motorbikes - Ross had a Suzuki 1200 Bandit, Mike a Honda CB500F, Henry a Honda 400, Tim a V-Strom and Hartley a BMW GS1200. The five ladies used a rental Kia Carnival uplifted from the airport, which also had the luggage. Robyn and Georgie took turns at driving. The first day was up the east coast, Accommodation in Launceston was evening meal, with all of the remainder passing through lovely Richmond and at the lovely converted Alices Cottages, was eaten for breakfast itself. onward to Bicheno. Day two was across which had been old workers cottages, Day three had us travelling through the top right to Launceston, passing by that were themed Scottish, Irish, English, lovely Deloraine where we had morning Pyangana where we had lunch at The Welsh. The four beers provided in each tea. However, when leaving town, the Pub in the Paddock. Here there was an room were consumed after our arrival. heaven’s opened up and our wet weather alcoholic pig in its pen, because people While the breakfasts provided in the gear was tested throughout this day. After feed it beer stubbies, with the rubbish bin fridges were SO big that everyone cooked all the west coast here does get three full of empties confirming this – yikes. up the bacon and eggs etc. for the metres of rain a year and rains on 300 days of the year! We continued through Hire bikes were great! Sheffield and Moina down to Strahan (pron Strawn) where we were to spend the next two days, staying at the fabulous Risby Cove, where we dined on the first night. The group enjoyed having two days in Strahan after the guys three days riding in the rain on day three. On day four the group went on the all-day World Heritage Cruise, through the huge Macquarie Harbour, past the salmon and trout farms

24 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 and visiting the historic old penal colony from the 1820s – on Sarah Island. Fabulous history on this tiny island which is just 700m long and 150m wide, where hard labour was certainly paramount for the convicts. Huon pine which floats well and does not rot was milled on the mainland nearby and eventually the convicts commenced building ships after a shipbuilder arrived. In all an amazing 97 ships were built and launched, some up to 300 tons! If you read books, the one titled ‘For the Term of his Natural Life’ was based there. From there it was up the beautiful Gordon River which is a Unesco World Heritage site. It was nice to just sit back and enjoy the day which included a wonderful salmon buffet lunch on the boat. Dining that evening at a local establishment we met up with a group of dirt bikers travelling around Tassie on many back roads. was found and fixed, we were on or way – standing by our bikes with ticket book and Day five had us travelling down through phew how fortunate! pen in hand after having ticketed the car Queenstown to Maydena which had Day six was eastwards via New Norfolk parked behind us. Seems we had parked lovely host people, cabins and food at for morning tea, then onwards to the on a bus stop, even though it was dirt and this Alpaca stud. This road leg provided Puddle Duck winery for a few samples had no road markings – but it did have a the only drama, with Ross’s rear tyre and purchases. Next stop was The small sign. It was pointed out to him that it going down for no obvious reason. We Wicked Cheese Co where we sampled was Sunday and after all surely they don’t had stopped at the very small Derwent many cheeses and then ate a nice lunch. run on Sundays... yes they do apparently. Bridge village for something to eat at the There are many wineries and cheeseries After some good banter we played our get cafe and there was no other business in this area. out of jail card saying ‘we are from New there or within miles, so we were very Then onwards for a slight detour and Zealand...’ After checking that kiwis could concerned. The motorbike cop who was revisit to Richmond where we parked up read signs he smiled and said he wouldn’t parked up there having his lunch wasn’t and toured the miniature ‘Hobart town ruin our holiday. What a nice man... really interested in helping us as he was from 200 years ago’ on 1\16th scale. The We all arrived back into Hobart and only focused on catching speeders. ladies went on to the Peter Rabbit Garden stayed the last night there before heading Fortunately, the cook out the back of which they reported back as worth seeing, back through Melbourne for several days the cafe was a biker and offered to fix while the guys went back to their bikes and to other destinations. Many of the it nearby in his own garage. Once a cut to return to Hobart. Oh no, there is a cop smaller towns in Tassie are so nice and the roads great to travel on. We travelled over 1200km and I spent only $65 on fuel, even though Aussies complain about their expensive fuel at around $1.45 a litre. They were shocked at what we pay. Costs were modest at around $1000 for seven days motorbike rental and about $1500 for eight night’s accommodation for each couple. What a great week in fabulous accommodation some which included breakfasts, great food everywhere, nice locals and lots of laughs with our awesome Otago crew. Being in Ulysses is all about comradery and we had that in spades! We would recommend the trip to anyone else. Mike 7808

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 25 ARTICLES TRIUMPH FACTORY VISITOR EXPERIENCE

e arrived at 10.00am. The very pleasant security guard pointed us in the right direction. After giving our Wnames to one of the Triumph employees we had a quick look around the café before being met by our factory tour guide. There were 16 people on our tour. Our guide gave us a pep talk – absolutely no phones or cameras and stay between the yellow lines at all times. He then kitted us out with hi-vis vest, radio receiver and earphones. We then continued into the factory with the guide giving a verbal commentary through the earphones. We entered into the warehouse where heaps of bikes are stacked on pallets in long rows. On average 6,500 finished bikes, Hinckley factory. Bought in forgings are machining the cranks go through. It that’s three weeks’ worth of stock is ready drop forged with the big end journals in takes 2 hours (totalled minutes at each for shipping. 400 bikes are dispatched per line. They are then heated and accurately operation) excluding heat treatment to day (Some in kit form to be assembled twisted to achieve the required angular finish a crankshaft. in other countries to get around import relationship between the crankshaft After machining, the cranks are moved duties). The factory has 10 wire-guided journals. This is for two- and three- to the Quality Control Department where forklifts that travel on average 800miles cylinder cranks. The crankshafts are then they are measured, and each journal is per week. stress relieved and ready for machining. colour-coded depending on its size, the Our first stop was the crankshaft line. Our guide then talked us through a static information is stored in a computer. At All Triumph crankshafts are made at the display showing the various stages of final engine assembly this colour code is used to match it with bearings and shells for optimal running tolerances. The crankshaft parts are designed to run for 200,000 miles (with regular servicing). We were not allowed to get close to see the actual machining, which was a bit of a disappointment. There are however overhead video screens showing the relevant operations being performed. It was the same for all the machining lines. Next was the camshaft line followed by crankcase and cylinder head production. Alloy engine castings are painted before machining. The production line for Triumph Rocket parts was idle and only used to produce spares. In 2014 Rocket production ceased due to new emission standards. There is no gear cutting at the Hinckley plant. Transmission parts are manufactured elsewhere. Bike assembly is on a moving conveyor system and it takes approximately 2 hours (totalled minutes at each station) to put a bike

26 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 together. A bike has approximately 1700 parts. Engine, brake and emissions testing is carried out after assembly on ACC a moving roller dyno. One random bike per week, is 100% stripped and 100% checked against its spec sheet. There is a holding and snagging area where CONSULTATION any bikes that may have suffered minor damage or missed op’s during assembly are rectified. s many Ulysses members opportunity to help us shape how we The last two Triumph Daytona’s are will be aware, ACC recently do things, and to make sure we’re stored here. They have been purchased asked for feedback on the on the right track. Take this year’s by Triumph company owner John Bloor levies it charges road users rebate proposal as an example. This OBE. The factory tour with our party of toA cover the cost of treating accidents was included in direct response to the 16 took approximately two hours. After on our roads. feedback we received the last time we handing in our vests and radio receiver Since launching the consultation, consulted, several submissions were our next stop was the 1902 café for a there have been a number of received from motorcyclists who called cuppa. Adjacent to the café is the Triumph challenges from motorcyclists about for recognition for those committed to factory bike museum. This is worth a look. the changes ACC is proposing, and improved road safety. Upstairs there is a shop selling all kinds how the consultation process has The proposed rego rebate will be of Triumph branded merch. Altogether we been run. As a motorcyclist, a Ulysses targeted to those motorcyclists who were at the visitor centre for four hours. member, and ACC employee, I wanted are most likely to have an accident. If you are a keen Triumph rider then this to give my response. And it isn’t who you might think. will be right up your street. If you are an I should start by saying the overall Figures from the Ministry of Transport engineer and hope to see fixtures, tooling interest in the consultation was show that it’s riders over the age of and live CNC machining, then this tour is unprecedented, with more than 6,000 40 who are more likely to be killed or a little short on substance. submissions from the public – a six- seriously injured in motorbike crashes. fold increase over the last time we Despite the overwhelming support Triumph Facts consulted back in 2016. A significant we’ve received from motorcyclists Triumph has two main manufacturing proportion of these were from for this proposal, the feedback from plants. One in Hinckley the other in motorcyclists, with more than 1,000 many riders has been that it shouldn’t Thailand. The factory in Hinckley has 800 responses to our proposal to introduce be restricted to more experienced employees. All workers are salary paid. a targeted rebate against the cost riders. We are currently considering There are 350 people in research and of motorcycle levies for riders who this feedback and will form our final development. 250 shop floor workers complete Ride Forever safety courses. recommendations to Government later and 100 office staff. The shop floor work Alongside a big promotional push in November. two shifts, four and half days per week. across various media channels, we Another criticism has focused on Factory size is 157,000 square meters also partnered with Harley Davidson the $607m surplus that ACC reported (22 football pitches). Capacity at Hinckley Auckland, which promoted the last year. Several people, including is currently 120 bikes per day. On the consultation to its membership, and Ulysses members, have argued that machining lines one minute of downtime gave us permission to talk to the we should use this money to reduce causing lost production costs £21,000. customers in person at their flagship the cost of the levies we charge. The Since 1991, Triumph have manufactured store. reality is that we do. In fact, if it wasn’t 917,000 bikes. The next series of Moto2 However, a key learning for us from for this surplus, we would need to GP engines will be manufactured at this an engagement perspective was that propose even higher levies. site. All twin cylinder engines are made a Monday morning probably wasn’t the This leads me to my final point. The in Thailand. Triumph has 760 dealers best time of the week to engage with reason for proposing an increase to worldwide. customers! Despite publicising our the levies that vehicle owners pay is The Triumph factory in Hinckley is presence through Harley’s newsletter down to a simple fact. There are more located on the A47 between Leicester and across our social media channels, accidents on our roads and the cost of and Coventry. To visit the 1902 café and the footfall wasn’t as high as we would treating those accidents is increasing. museum is free, open Wed-Sun. An have liked. This was the first time We’d love to see a reversal of optional factory tour costs £18 and run we’ve looked to engage in person with this trend – and hope that through only three days per week with an average the public in this way – and was a initiatives such as Ride Forever and 3 tours per day. Book in advance online. learning for us, which we will take on others, we can move towards this. The Visitor Centre was opened in February board for next time. Dave Keilty #8777 2018 https://www.triumphmotorcycles. Feedback is hugely important to co.uk/visitor-experience us. We want customers to have an Steve 7594

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 27 ARTICLES 2018 HARIHARI RALLY

aving attended three previous Westland Branch Harihari Rallies, and enjoyed all three, it was a no brainer to attend this year.H Tom Brown, our Rides Coordinator, had indicated two options were available, travel down on the Friday with a stop-over at Ross, or travel all the way down on Saturday. I decided on the Friday option after googling the “World Famous EMPIRE HOTEL in Ross” and having viewed the Facebook photos of inside the Bar on the website, came to the conclusion the place oozed atmosphere, character and history all rolled into one. I arrived at Brayshaw Park in Blenheim just before 10am, being our specified departure time, to be greeted by Tom, and after waiting a few minutes for any latecomers, we hit the road. Weather-wise there were a few clouds around, but the sun was out and plenty of blue sky, which The raffle was great as usual was what the forecasters had predicted for both Friday and Saturday as far as our proposed route was concerned. The ride My first impression of the Empire Hotel on a venison steak meal with a salad up the Wairau Valley to St Arnaud was was that it reminded me of the Australian and vegetables which was delicious, and a real blast. We only encountered about cartoonist Ken Maynard’s sketches of the I can assure you there was nothing left a dozen or so vehicles over the entire “Ettamogah Pub” situated in the middle on the plate when I had finished. Tom’s meal was equally as good, and his plate Plenty of prizes! looked as if he had licked it clean. We chatted with a few locals and found out that from about October thru to April/May the pub really hums with a mix of tourists and locals. They offer an assortment of accommodation, not only in the pub itself, but also in various stand-alone units adjacent to the Pub. 100-odd kilometres up the valley and of the Aussie outback and frequented We both got chatting with a local lad the majority of them were heading in the by predominantly black singlet, hob-nail who was currently renovating a large opposite direction. Similar conditions also booted, Aussie outback types. Upon building across the road from the pub. applied to the St Arnaud to Reefton, and checking in we were directed to a studio The owner has a substantial number of Reefton to Greymouth legs. We stopped unit which had two single beds in the old motorcycles stored inside along with at St Arnaud, Murchison and Reefton lounge/kitchen area, a separate bedroom a couple of American classic cars. Before for compulsory pee and food stops and with a double bed, and a bathroom. It leaving the next morning, Tom and I had a topped up our petrol tanks at Reefton. was more than adequate for the two of bit of a gander through the windows and We also stopped briefly at Greymouth us, and at a cost of $75 each for our it certainly looked very impressive. It will and Hokitika to meet up again after being accommodation, evening meals and be well worth a visit when the renovations separated by traffic holdups and the like breakfast, it wasn’t a bad deal at all. Both have been completed. I also noticed a before pushing south down the Coast to of us struggled to eat our meals that rather old full-sized billiard table towards Ross, arriving there about 5pm. night as they were ginormous. I settled the end of the room with a couple of

28 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 motorcycles covered in tarpaulins sitting obviously nuts about all things Ducati. As on the top of the table. A most unusual, but I am totally useless at things mechanical, possibly quite practical work bench with having been desk bound all my working little likelihood on losing any nuts, bolts, life, I wound up making small talk with screws and the like should they fall. We the wife. One thing I did learn however is both were ready to leave around 9:30am that when you wind up an Aussie and get and went back to the bar to settle up only him yakking on a topic close to his heart, to find the cleaning lady was the only you can’t shut the bugger up. In the end it person connected to the pub on site and took the guy’s wife to bring an end to their as she did not know how to operate the conversation much to Tom’s disgust as was won by Bruce Wood. As Bruce got up eftpos machine, we thought we had a bit he was just as bad as the Aussie. Having to collect his prize of a bottle of bourbon of a problem as we were both not carrying made our escape, we topped up with fuel he quietly muttered to the rest of us at his a lot of cash. In true West Coast fashion and headed back to Harihari and the Rally. table this was his third win of the Harihari she said it’s not a problem, there are a lot Upon arrival back in Harihari there major raffle, having won it on two previous of bikers in Ross, and just like them we were considerably more bikes parked in occasions. So much for the saying “a looked like honest people. Buggered if I the Motor Inn grounds than when we first bird never sh-ts in the same place twice”. know how she came to that conclusion arrived at the venue 3 or 4 hours earlier. The next half hour or so was taken up about Tom (but fully understandable about Had a bit of a freshen up and a coffee with quick fire raffles until all the prizes me!) and suggested we simply hit the before attempting to negotiate the labyrinth on offer had been won. I lost count of the road and either call in and settle up on of passages leading back to the main actual numbers of draws, but there were a our return trip or ring the pub when we get reception, bottle store, bar and dining area hellava lot of prizes and I think everybody home and organise an alternative way to adjacent to the road front of the Motor Inn. scored at least one prize, if not more. settle our account. And so, without any There were a few locals in the bar along Dinner was scheduled for 6pm and the further ado it was time to hit the road. with quite a few Ulyssians. It was good to first thing that struck me as I entered the It’s a fairly short hop from Ross to catch up with familiar faces and enjoy the dining room was the number of tables Harahari and we checked in at the Motor odd pint or two. and seats available. It was certainly a lot Inn shortly after 10am. We offloaded Unfortunately, things became somewhat less than what was available at the three our bikes and stowed our gear in our subdued for a while when we were told a previous Harihari rallies I had attended. respective rooms. Tom joined me in my local 4 year old toddler had gone missing. Once everyone was seated it was obvious room where we had a coffee and biscuit or The Inn staff did an internal search of the the number of attendees was down on two before hitting the road again heading Motor Inn just in case he had slipped into previous years which surprised me as it for Franz Joseph for lunch. It’s only a short a room for a nap, locals and some of us had been so well supported each time I hop of about 70km, but the road is great looked around the Motor Inn grounds and had attended previously. If this is a sign of as is the scenery – a mixture of native out buildings as well as the walking track the times then it is a bit of a worry, not only forest, braided rivers, Lakes Wahapo and through the trees above the houses on the for the Westland Branch but presumably Mapourika, dairy farmland and the small hill opposite the Motor Inn but to no avail. also for a lot of other branches as well. settlement of Whataroa. And for those who We found out later the toddler had been Despite the drop in numbers the quality enjoy riding tight cornered hills, the 9km- found in a farm pond and unfortunately and quantity of food on offer was top odd length of Mt Hercules would be right had not survived the ordeal. He was from a notch. The usual West Coast roast and up there as one of the best. It was such a local family, so it was fully understandable veges followed by a desert to die for. If lovely day so we both opted to sit at a table why the staff and locals were somewhat you are a hungry gutted ouzit like me, on the footpath outside the café to eat subdued. Our hearts go out to the family, seconds of both courses were available our lunch and tell a few lies. As we were it’s a tragedy no parent would want to and accepted. Hope the missus doesn’t leaving the café another patron, having experience and will have a profound effect get to read this! spotted Tom’s Ducati simply ignored his on them for the rest of their lives. Having Following the meal, the local Sheriff (aka wife and, having ascertained which of us lived and worked for 40-odd years in a Janet Ornsby) assisted by her Constable rode it, proceeded to bombard Tom with small rural community, I’m absolutely sure (aka Neale Gilbertson) sporting a police questions about his bike and how Tom the locals will rally round and provide as uniform dating back several years, if not found it to ride. It transpired he operates much support and comfort as they can. decades, made their appearance for the a motorbike business in Australia and is With “Happy Hour” in full swing Ken local fine session. Now the local Sheriff Reece commenced selling badges and was in no mood to be trifled with despite raffle tickets. Each badge purchased had the fact she was a woman unskilled in the a little sticker attached to it with a number mysterious workings of a truncheon. To on it, effectively becoming a raffle ticket in save face she opted to enforce her rule its own right for the principal raffle of the of law using something less phallic but evening. equally deadly if circumstances dictated Around 5:30pm we all retired to a room the need to use force! Her inspired choice adjacent to the dining room to draw the of weapon turned out to be a child’s plastic raffles. First up was the major raffle which mallet which at first sight appeared pretty

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 29 ARTICLES

ineffectual, but that was a misconception long they played for as I headed off back was then time to say farewell, settle up your if ever there was one. Just ask anyone to my room not long after the rugby, but bill, load up the bike and hit the road. who had the misfortune to be slammed I can remember faintly hearing the band Tom and I had to stop in Ross to dunked by said mallet wielded by a very long after I had hit the pit and turned off settle up our unpaid Friday night’s plausible imitation of a sadistic female my light. accommodation and Huey was obviously Sheriff! No doubt Janet had honed her Sunday morning was rather dull as impressed by our honesty as we only skills after many years of using a rolling there was a heavy cloud cover and light encountered light drizzle along the way. pin. I have to admit her approach was drizzle falling, so I had to rattle around However, things got worse after that as the an inspiration in that just about everyone in my panniers to find my wet weather drizzle quickly turned to a light but constant she fined was so anxious to avoid a gear for the ride home. I had received a rain for the leg to Hokitika and really turned pummelling that they had their wallets text message from John Sinclair, one of to custard for the hop to Greymouth. out in a jiffy and started throwing in notes our Marlborough Ulysses Retreads Ride Fortunately, Huey had a change of heart rather than coins in the vain hope she Coordinators, warning me that I could be and decided to look favourably down upon might spare them. in for a wet ride home. His message went us because the sky started to clear as we Chris Ruddlesden tried to pre-empt the something like this: rode through Dobson, and the rain stopped Sheriff by coming forward voluntarily and, “If you were to get your rather ample as we passed the Brunner lookout. It was with his clench fisted hand held above his arse out of the scratcher early enough fine with virtually no traffic right through head with one finger pointing to the top of tomorrow you might get a half decent ride to Reefton where we stopped for lunch his head, reported to all and sundry that home. If you don’t, you’ll test your new and a petrol top up. As we were leaving some f’wit, who shall remain anonymous, DriRider Pants and Jacket.” Reefton a light rain started falling again so accidently filled his bike petrol tank with Thanks JG, it’s quite touching to know I stopped just on the outskirts of Reefton to diesel rather than petrol while on a major you genuinely care about my wellbeing. put my rain jacket back on but that turned bike expedition around the North Island. Begrudgingly I have to admit one of JG’s out to be a premature knee jerk reaction You can read all about it in the latest very few talents is his ability to correctly as the rain was short lived and it remained Ulyssian, it’s a damned good read. predict weather patterns, so it was a no fine and quite mild for the rest of the trip Annette Paterson, the coordinator of the brainer to act upon his advice. home. We had another stop at St Arnaud Westland Branch, welcomed everyone Breakfast was not being served until for a coffee before hitting the final leg and thanked them for supporting the 7:30am so there was plenty of time to home to Blenheim with another blast down rally as well as thanking her team for complete the four S’s (for the uninitiated – the Wairau Valley to draw the curtain down all their hard work and effort they had Sh-t, Shower, Shave & Shampoo) and pack on a most enjoyable long weekend. put in to make this rally such a success. up the panniers before heading back to the In reply our national President, Mike dining room for a breakfast fit for a king. It Bob #8033 Dew, thanked Annette and her team for organising and hosting this rally, which Disclaimer: The reader should be aware that I had absolutely no intention of writing this despite a decrease in numbers, was just article and have only done so following several innuendos’ from our illustrious leader, Mike as successful and enjoyable as all the Dew. He spent a hellava lot of time poking his piddly little camera at all and sundry over previous Westland Branch Rallies he had the course of the rally and kept suggesting to me the photos he had taken will be attached attended. to the report I was going to write. His reasoning behind this approach was a follow up to We then moved through to the bar to an article I wrote for our local Marlborough Branch monthly newsletter and unknown to watch the remainder of the NZ v England me was subsequently published in the last Ulyssian magazine relating to attending my first netball test and the All Blacks v South Brass Monkey Rally in Central Otago. I had attached a few photos I took at the Rally to that Africa rugby test. Both games were a article, but the version printed in the Ulyssian contained a lot more photos which were catalyst for us all to drown our sorrows as taken by Mike. As you can see his logic was fairly basic, find a mug who will write a story for both NZ teams lost. A live band then took him to attach an assortment of photos he took. Therefore, if anyone has any gripe about the over and provided entertainment for both content of this article, take it up with “El Presidente” rather than me! the locals and our mob. I am not sure how

30 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 REMEMBRANCE RUN ell, that twelve months went year). We have eaten there for years but no, and when we arrived the place was buzzing quick. Every year it seems to go everything about the place had changed – with our noisy lot at one end and a large faster than the last one. As usual no big breakfast, bacon eggs and toms - all birthday party at the other. The meal was Barb and I loaded the Ute and that large panni style food that only needs a beef roast with all the trimmings plus Hheaded off to unlock school early then off to heating – moving along we found a little chicken legs for $20 per head and was Taupo around 7-30. Traffic was really good café called Replete that served a proper excellent. Thanks to Trev and his daughter to and through Auckland and onto Papakura breakfast but sadly no cooked tomatoes. I Angela for sharing our table, hope we BP where Clive, Wayne etc. were saddling think it’s the place that Clive, Pat, Fred and didn’t scare you off Angela! After our up to head South (no sign of Pete W). We Thelma used to have breakfast at ages annual photo of the “Grey Bearded Bikers” decided to go down Highway 27, always ago – could be wrong. Caught up with some members moved on to the Cosi Club quiet, wrong busy as, trucks for Africa all the Peggy O’Neil who sat and chatted for a while we decided to go back to the motel way to Tirau where we stopped for diesel while then off to check out the second via McD’s for a hot sundae and a hot apple and something to eat, catching up with an hand shops for cheap prised leather pie (another tradition) yum. old work mate from the Portland days Perry jackets. I have been doing this for years, Sunday dawned foggy, and after Edwards who was also heading to Taupo some people collect stamps, I collect arranging to meet Nick and Anne at 9am with two other bikes. leather jackets. Found a brand new jacket we headed off to Wairakei. Deciding I was Southward again arriving in Taupo around never worn (I could tell you the price but leading the way we headed for Tirau and 1-45. Went to grog shop, supermarket and then I’d have to shoot you, lol) then off to the Oxford Café for breakfast with Nick off to book in at motel. Next off for a look the motel to gear up for the service. following my tail through the thick fog that around to see what had changed from We got to the Events Centre at around cleared around Tokoroa. last year. The first thing we noticed was 1:30, catching up with heaps of people When we arrived, the place was empty the great little shop called the Man Cave from all over while waiting for the ride to (bad sign as usually at that time it’s full had shut down (bugger) - it was so cool. arrive from Rotorua then into the hall and of bikers) so we decided to go down the Secondly the amount of empty shops in after buying a badge found a seat by the road a tad to eat then off up the main road the CBD; it must be a sign of the times door. The service and Val’s readings were to catch up with the grandies in Hamilton. everywhere. After looking around town for a great as always and with this being our Then onto Puhoi for a beer. The place while and catching up with other wandering 20th one the list is definitely getting longer. was packed with only room to stand. Ulybods it was off to the Pub ‘N Grub for a Very sad hearing some names read out we There were bikes everywhere including a couple of drinks as always, but at $19 for a didn’t know had passed including Val Cotter large contingent from the Tribal Nations beer and a wine (no Ulysses discount this from Wakatane. Barb and I caught up with MC from the Waikato returning from a year)! I must have lived in the country too Ken her hubby briefly after the service. Val weekend ride North, as well as members long to pay those prices, so it was off to the hadn’t kept good health for a few years from other groups. Then it was off R.S.A. where the same thing cost $11 – we now and always came over to the service home. 890km’s round trip in total. Great will stay here thanks. After a couple of hours, with Ken and would sit in the car. We have weekend, great company, great club. it was off to find a feed before turning in. always had a yearly date every August with Maybe we can get a few more Far North Saturday morning dawned fine, no Val but sadly she didn’t make it this year. members to boost our numbers for next clouds, no wind and quite warm. After the Back to the motel bout 3:30 for a couple of year. (Pete’s bike refused to start so came usual three S’s it was off for breakfast at beers then off to the R.S.A. for our traditional in car. That’s a fine for you Brother!) Peppies (name has changed since last mixed branch dinner. This is always a hoot Worzel #2921 / TOMCC #113

Taking bookings now Nepal and Tibet for 2019. March/April/May & Sept/Oct/Nov 1) The “Best of Nepal” includes the steamy jungles of the South and an exciting safari. Then on to the high stark Himalayan Plateau at 4600m. 2) The “Forbidden Kingdom” rides to an area that has been closed to tourists until recently. You will experience ancient Tibetan culture and exciting riding. 3) Everest Base Camp Ride via the Tibetan Lorraine Lindsay high passes over 5000m. This includes the E. [email protected] ancient Tibetan city of Lhasa. P. 03 545 1919 or 021 276 5656 www.himalayanmotorcycleadventures.com

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 || 31 ARTICLES STILL GROWING OLD DISGRACEFULLY...

n Monday 17th September, Auckland Branch. a few laps in on the Evoke. Wayne Painter (North Harbour Following the track safety briefing we The TV crew commenced filming Branch President), Clive were delighted to hear that the racetrack various scenes and shots (in no relevant Thomas (Auckland Branch was ours for the whole day! We were order at the time) using fixed and OPresident) and I (at last being V.P. has advised that Newshub wanted to make drone cameras. The ‘action’ entailed a benefit, yay!) were invited to attend a a piece highlighting the Evoke being us pursuing (at a low speed - most of launch come filming session of the new available in NZ and the new technology it the time! - despite what the finished Evoke Electric Motorcycle. Newshub TV3 has to offer, for ‘The Project’ show airing at film may look like) and Wayne, Clive were making a TV report and wanted some 7pm on either the 19th or 20th September and I being filmed carrying out various ‘seasoned’ motorcyclists to take part. (or maybe the following week!) based on a activities, including getting dressed to Originally filming was due to take place good guy/bad guy ‘Old Western’, involving ride, starting our machines and rolling around the Cornwall Park area but due to the new Evoke. The storyline was that onto the racetrack before speeding the electric bikes being USA models, they the Evoke was the new kid in town and away, allegedly after the electric bike. couldn’t get them registered because of was sought by the baddies, who stole the We stayed on our own machines as the the dipped headlight pointing the wrong electric bike before eventually returning ‘baddies’ and pursued the Evoke guy way for NZ roads. So Newshub gave us it and all becoming friends who rode off who was riding into our ‘town’ on his new the disappointing news that we would have together into the sunset. Cheesy or what? electric motorbike. You get the idea… You to go to Pukekohe Racetrack instead. But who cares when you get to ‘play’ on an may even have seen the finished film on (Such a shame!) empty racetrack for the day! ‘The Project’ on TV3? Many of the scenes So, Wayne and I set off together, on a Our first ‘job’ was to ride the bikes required more than one take, which was bright sunny day and arrived at Pukekohe around the track to familiarise ourselves okay, especially when at one stage we Racetrack around 10:15am. We knew that with them... more about the technical were invited to ‘chase’ after the Evoke at a safety briefing was set for 11am and specification later. As there were only two, whatever speed we care to ride at! Some soon after our arrival, we were joined by I ‘followed’ Wayne and Clive first up on my of the time, in our choreographed ‘chase’ Clive Thomas (President & Sheriff) of the Honda Hornet 600. Then I was able to get shots we caught up the Evoke too early

32 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 which meant we had to keep doing the fast scenes for the TV crew to get the shots they wanted. It’s a tough job when you keep getting told to ride the track again and again, as fast as you want, but somebody had to do it! At one point when Wayne and I had finished the group shooting, just before lunch we were told to go back to the pits, which was a whole lap away from our shooting position. We didn’t need telling twice and Wayne on that behemoth Indian Roadmaster of his and I had some fun getting back to the pits. Wayne tells me his speedometer showed 164km/h in pursuit of me; my Hornet hadn’t been unleashed like that since my training session at the California Superbike School last year. I had forgotten the wonderful exhaust note of the Hornet at 12,500rpm... exquisite! And we were the only two bikes on the track... heaven! Clive meanwhile had been ‘selected’ as the Electric Bike ‘thief’ (no am told 120kph - 130kph is possible (with you couldn’t see the side stand then when suggestion of typecasting in the least!) so someone weighing as much me, I don’t you stretched and moved so you could see he had a few more shots and stills to do think so?) it, the lug to put your foot on to bring the but that gave me a bit more time to explore The range of the batteries, so I was told stand down was secreted underneath and the other Evoke and find out a bit more by Kevin, the really nice guy assisting in close to the left foot peg! It meant having about them. the sale and promotion of these machines to jiggle the toes of your left foot under the Technical Stuff in NZ, is up to 200kms depending on lug then push down to get the stand to riding style but an 80% charge can be start moving into position whilst unsighted. The Evoke is a ‘naked’ (but there is a achieved from an ordinary household Redesigning that is an absolute must! cruiser coming soon!), with a brushless socket in 3 hours, even quicker from a What sort of problem did it cause? Well, DC motor producing no less than 19bhp 15amp, camping site style socket. one of the bikes was dropped due to this (steady boy!) although of course being These machines are really a ‘first step’ inherent design flaw but I am happy to say electric the power is given in KwH but that into electric bikes and the engineers and that it wasn’t Wayne or I who dropped it! doesn’t really mean much to most of us, manufacturers have to be admired for The bikes have no gear lever and no does it? ‘kicking the process off’ and although I rear brake pedal, the rear brake being It weighs about 160kg, meaning it felt suspect (hope) the best is yet to come, operated by a lever where the clutch extremely easy to handle and would be a they had to start somewhere. Incidentally would normally be, just like a scooter/twist great commuter. It has three settings for although the bikes look slightly different and go machine. How were the brakes? power, ‘Eco’, ‘City’ and ‘Pro’. in the pictures, they are identical save for If I say that these bikes are out of China The bikes were set on ‘City’ initially the different headlight and cowlings that then most of you will understand when I and I never explored ‘Eco’ but when I are being trialled. The final decision has say there is room for improvement, a lot set it into ‘Pro’ mode, it made the bike a yet to be made as to which one will make of improvement! The overall package is bit more lively, well as lively as a 19bhp the NZ models. attractive and I have no doubt the finish motorbike can be. I think I hit the fastest One of the huge differences (read will improve but again, in that respect, it’s speed of the day, a very heady 104kph failings) of these particular machines is Chinese heritage shows through. A couple down the long back straight although I that due to their low power, drive out of of obvious signs that a lot of the fittings are corners was just slightly more than non- from existing machines in the marketplace existent. All three of us found it quite is the switch gear on the handlebars. disconcerting that having hit the apex On the left handlebar switch console of the bend, there was no drive to take there is a choke lever? And on the right us on our way. No doubt more powerful switch console there is the ever-present machines will greatly improve the red kill switch which on these models, situation? does absolutely nothing! A sign that cost Another huge challenge for us, although cutting has played its part! Something it may not sound significant, was the side else that crossed my mind, with the rear stand on the bikes! (There is no main wheel containing the drive and the front stand available). From the seating position wheel containing the regenerative braking

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 33 ARTICLES

system, how would a rider get on out on it viable - oh and talking about selling, you the road, with a puncture? may be interested to know how much they SAFETY ALERT: We were advised to cost? I’m told (subject to confirmation) that be very wary of approaching any electric you will get a bit of change out of NZ$16k. vehicle (car or bike) involved in an Would I have one of these bikes? well... accident as apparently, depending on the no - and I don’t think there would be many damage, the whole machine can be live Ulysses members who would be happy and consequently could cause very nasty with such a low powered machine but, injuries or even death, if anyone was to and it is a big BUT, these machines are touch it. So, as a word of warning, if you the forerunners of what is to come and I come across an accident involving electric applaud the designers, manufacturers vehicle(s) think before you act. We want and marketers for pushing on with them. you to stay around a lot longer to act And so that the no doubt, highly inquisitive ‘disgracefully’! state that you are now in, having read this To date, the NZ Vehicle Licensing far, can be satisfied; there is a distinct motorcycles as their development will Authority have been unable to decide into possibility that they will be on display at a help with features on combustion engine which category the bike fits and therefore NH Club Night in the very near future. powered machines too and this article have declined (for the moment) to give If you would like to know more about any contains only my views and opinion(s) and the bike a LAMS rating! Really, a 19bhp aspect of these machines, you can contact does not represent an official review or the electric motorbike not LAMS approved, Kevin Harty (who is arranging the bikes for views of the Ulysses Club (NZ) inc or its how come? Likewise, they cannot decide club night) at kevin@evokemotorcycles. Branches.) on how much the rego will cost each year co.nz - mobile: 021 246 6979 either! Without LAMS approval this bike just (NB: I genuinely applaud the technology Barry Holland VP North Harbour won’t sell in the numbers required to make involved and the concept of electric Branch.

34 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 ARTICLES PATAGONIA MOTORCYCLE TOUR

e looked at several ride deteriorate into a morass of sticky snot if discerning of you will notice the touch companies before settling they get wet. The paved roads are good of a more sensitive being regarding the on Ride Adventures. quality scenery. Every person has different We chose a BMW GS 800 Adventure, Wexpectations and requirements, so I’m but others in our merry band of 11 bikes, First day - Pucon to Bariloche not trying to sell this company to you. rode GS 1200s, Honda Africa Twins, GS 374km They offer this trip through Chile and 650s and Honda 500 Adventures. They The rain was bucketing down and I had Argentina. It involves lots of unpaved all were a compromise, with none the a bike I had never ridden before, riding roads through the Andes over numerous best at all the road surfaces. On paved on the right (not left) side of the road, to passes, as far as the roads go. The base surfaces the big bikes powered off. On a destination through several mountain cost is less than many of the more heavily the unpaved they were more of a handful. passes, including a border crossing organised tours. All the riders were experienced, as between two nations that don’t seem to That leaves you with the cost of getting we were advised that we needed to be, get on that well! We put more clothing on to the start point, bike insurance, most of to contemplate this trip. However, there than the rest, and sweltered at the start. your food, and fuel. The accommodation is always a condition you have never We even wore our electric vests that are and breakfasts are included, and they experienced. The Aussies were good in battery driven, so the Aussies didn’t rag have a sweep vehicle with a driver sand but had never ridden in snow. The us too badly. The higher we went, the who speaks Spanish/English and has Yanks were good in paved roads, but had colder it got. Soon it was snowing. It was mechanical skills. You are advised as very little experience in unpaved riding. just like the Arthur’s Pass so we knew it to where your next accommodation is The lone Pom knew snow and ice, but was the first day of snow and unlikely to and how you get there is largely decided had not done much unpaved riding. We be icy till the next day after the freezing by the fact that in southern Chile, and were the only two up team. A few Brass night. Then the BMW temperature guage Argentina, there are very few roads! Monkeys turned out to be the best training dropped to -3 degrees, and I’m not so sure about two things. First, would snow become ice at that temperature, and Collecting the bikes second, how would a liquid cooled motor cope with sub zero! Fortunately, we got to the unpaved road It is always smart to be in front of the we could ever have had! We knew what and I was less worried about the ice. This sweeper, though you can contact him if gear we needed for wet, and cold. We BMW obviously proves that fuel injection you strike trouble. knew it was waterproof. We also had doesn’t freeze up, like the old carbs. The It pays to have some basic fitness, and layers to cope with warm weather - not motor kept running fine, despite me not some experience riding unpaved roads that we got too much of that! having any idea what temperature it was with poor surface. Having an accident in One area none of us appreciated, was running at! Probably a good thing, or I these isolated areas is not a good idea, the inherent urge for these dual purpose might have worried more! Into Argentina as rescue and transport takes many hours bikes to fall over at low speeds. The the road deteriorated into a quagmire of to a hospital of any type. I would describe most dangerous area was in the uneven mud, snow, and potholes that enabled Patagonia as very like the South Island of forecourts of the service stations! A tank oncoming traffic to shower us with mud NZ, but 10x as big and 10x as isolated! It full of gas, bags of gear, a bike like a and water. Those electric vests really is beautiful but challenging. The weather bloody Camel, legs that barely reached were the answer to pressing on. We in spring is like ours – variable. The the ground, and adventure was never far arrived at Bariloche, to see some push Chilean side tends to be wet, and the away! cyclists on bikes riding in lycra tights! Argentinian side dry and windy. Snow in So, dear reader, that sets the scene. That day was a baptism, that everyone the passes is likely, and the clay roads I will do the “bike speak”, and the more in the group felt was thought provoking.

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 35 ARTICLES

Could we do this? If this was what we grey sky and sleet for 2 hours. Suddenly Puyuhuapi to Coyhaigue could expect, at the most northerly of the a ribbon of black top in the white and we 233km plus a ferry ride roads we were going to travel on, what “smoothed” our way. The road surface Drizzle again. We had been warned of did further south hold as we got closer to was poor, but still a pleasure after the 10km of thick gravel (about 3 inches deep Antartica? ripio (what the Chilaens call unpaved or 10cm for you youngsters). The sleeping I had my first (and best of the trip) road), and then the wind sprang up, but facilities had been primitive in this very Argentinian steak! The fact that nobody at least it stopped snowing! Suddenly we small fishing village. We had to get going crashed, spoke volumes about the skills had dry paved road - Christmas had come early to catch a ferry past a 2km stretch of the group. Some had hypothermia and early! Arrived in Trevelin, parked and of road that had all slipped away into the were unable to advise the reception desk, locked the bikes in. Dinner and after a bit fijord. I thought earthquake, but was told what their names were! I kid you not! Off of talking, we all hit the sack. it was excessive rain and slips. The deck to bed - some without dinner, as they of the ferry was smooth wet steel - I was were so exhausted. Breakfast was a very Trevelin to Puyuhuapi bloody careful, but one of the big Hondas quiet affair, with a degree of anxiety in the 238km slipped on the deck. No serious harm air.The support crew had worked through Temperatures around 4 degrees but done except to the ego! the night to fit a new back shock to the sunny and lots of ripio today. We were The deep ripio was no big deal in the other GS800 Adventure, as it failed in the having great fun until we took a wrong event - we see worse on the Danseys rough conditions on the way. turning and headed off for an extra 50km Pass these days. Climbing up into the of metal road! We stopped a farmer and hills from the fijord, there was more Baraloche to Trevelin used sign language to get directions. We unexpected sun and beautiful rolling 363km retraced our way back to the correct turn off farmland with massive waterfalls requiring Starting temp at 08:30 hours was 3 and met up with the rest of the group at the tunnels like Swiss avalanche covers. The degrees, with sleet. We put all the gear scheduled fuel stop. They had three GPS ripio gave way to potholes in the black on again and got outside quickly as you units and we realised that the chances of top, that were so deep they made the are only comfortable in the cold with the getting lost and behind the sweep truck, main stand clang like a bell. Aqua caliente electric vest on. Unfortunately, it is close were a lot less if we stuck with the bunch at the Hotel - so into the shower before all to the skin, and hard to adjust because They were stopping and taking more the hot water gets used. BLISS. of that. It seemed easier to vary the photos. Lis was able to take the photos on gear on top to achieve the comfortable the fly from pillion, with the new Olympus Coyhaigue to Peurto Tranquillo temperature while travelling at speed waterproof camera. That’s if she could get 278km Leaving town we got in a traffic snarl her gloves off. The warm gloves were too Slept the sleep of the righteous (or up, and travelling slowly was a difficult tight a fit and any dampness made removal exhausted more likely) 0900 start and task. At low revs the motor stalled easily, and replacement hard. Snow and rain were Andres (guide) says a short day. Fine and the bike was harder to balance. We now replaced with Aussie dust! Suddenly weather, and tarmac for 20km and all gradually got to trust the Hidenau dual we came upon a couple of Gauchos on the rest dry and dusty, with patches of purpose tyres, in the wet and snow. They horses with all their gear on. Glacial valleys rough ripio. As we climbed out of the look too chunky to grip, but are fine. The with vertical walls and huge waterfalls, lakes valley we were treated to rolling farmland, brakes, handling, ABS, and suspension of snow water of duck egg, blue green. with fat stock and market gardens. The were superb. Travelling on unpaved Pulled into Puyuhuapi, tired but feeling that food bowel for the 60,000 people in roads along the sides of huge lakes with we were coping ok. Coyhaigue. Long sweepers, and good

36 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 surface became the norm. We were all them in the drysacks in the tourtec saddle is large and not at all considerate. We are coping okay with the gravel now, and bags so that we could easily reach them if often pushed into the soft shoulder of the enjoyed the lakeside views to Terra Luna required again. We have realised that, as metal, and timing to get back on more Lodge, and the “Rooma matrimonial”. in NZ, the weather can change suddenly solid road is energy sapping. The country The rest day here provided beautiful and the fabulous looking tourtec bags side in Argentina is now dry and although sunny, windless weather so we took leak so badly that they are like small the roads are better, the wildlife tries to the opportunity of a boat ride to see the swimming pools if it rains. We drilled suicide by ramming you. Reas, guanacos, amazing marble cathedral rocks reflecting holes in the bottoms to allow the water to armadillos, foxes, cattle, sheep, are all a off lovely clear water in this extremely escape. The ripio, up the side of the lake, real worry, especially at 100km/h. deep Lake Graf Cartera. is spectacular and we have 2 hours on our own with no dust from the others Perito Moreno to Gobernadora Puerto Tranquillo (Chile) to Perito We reach Chile Chico and then on Gregores – 355km Moreno (Argentina) – 177km to the border crossing. Some of the hill All hard surface today and the day We were advised 23 degrees expected cuttings are single lane and curved so you started fine and cool. The messa was today, so we break out the summer cannot see what’s entering the other way! flat and like the dessert road but 350km gloves and shed the heated vests. They It pays to keep the speed down there. The of it! The wildlife were just as suicidal as have been so good we decided to pack road narrows and the approaching traffic yesterday, and one of the Aussies had a near death experience that left him a white as a sheet. A guanaco laxative. Missed it by a metre at 130km/h! It is usually best to lead a group because you are past before the guanacos panic and run in all directions. We are clipping along, but cannot compete with the Africa Twins or the GS 1200. Ripio is our forte on the smaller more manouvreable GS 800 Adventure. The 21 inch front wheel comes into its own, and while the back standard shock is prone to self destruct, our White Power replacement smooths the ride, so control is easier than the “big grunters.”

Gobernadora Gregores to Calafate Another warm, clear day - how lucky are we! We set off early and then decided to wait on the main street for the GPS boys. They all left town another way and quarter of an hour later we realise that we were behind the sweeper. There was 60km of

UlyssianUlyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 37 ARTICLES

seal before the ripio - and we used it all in The pampas here is swampy, stoney, windy, Magellan. short order. I can assure you the GS 800 and vast. Road surface was dry and we Adventure can move at pace! The Messa left by 08:00. Tyres are rated at 160km/h Ushuaia to Rio Grande continued as far as the eye could see in all continuous. That was a good bit of info, 466km directions. We caught up just at the ripio, and we were way behind the big boys. Woke to a beautiful sunrise at 04:30. We are and passed the slower riders, to catch the Everybody had to back off when the wildlife a long way south here. To be able to say we Aussies at the fuel stop. This was some of was evident. The spring flowers were in went as far south on roads as was possible, the hardest riding on unpaved road. There all the paddocks, and the purple and gold we entered the local Reserve to the “End were humungous potholes, mud, thick bathed the pampas. We crossed the Straits of the World”! The trees were stunted gravel, bulldust, so bad you had to hang of Magelan, and were mighty impressed Southern Beech, about 5 metres high when back to see at all. with the windscreen, and high speed stability mature, and the road was winding ripio, with The first experience with Bulldust is of our mount. We were in Tierra Del Fuego! a good surface (fun). Then, back over the scarey, as the bike sinks in like very soft The main highlight for us at Calafate was Garibaldi Pass, and on to a lunch stop at sand, with the front feeling loose. The finding a private museum showing the early Tolhuin, where the famous Pastry Bakery gibbers (like Aussie cricket balls) were the prehistoric history of the area and also the sells doughnuts, from Heaven. On to Rio most challenging, and you had to make indigenous Indian history. It made for sober Grande (yes the same, not so grand place). yourself keep the power on, while the front reading about the near annihilation of the We stayed in the casino! We were advised seemed to shift round disconcertingly. Lis original inhabitants during colinisation. that we had been double booked, and we was enjoying the challenge of getting the might need to sleep two to a bed. Lis, and I bike into the corner early, which was a great Cerro Sombrero (Chile) to Ushuaia were okay about that, but the good looking help if I was a bit tentative. Tarmac – Oh (Argentina) – 419km Aussies were a bit windy! By now it is any HAPPY DAY! Then back into the most The weather was cold and windy, and port in a storm. Andres, the support person, critical 60km of ripio. Here the surface is we set off at 0800. I had always thought sorted it in no time! all clay. Rain makes it impassable, and the the Islands name was because of snow trucks and dry weather make it into the and volcanoes, and that it would be Rio Grande to Punta Arenas equivalent of multiple railway lines that you mountainous. In reality it is like Southland 232km plus ferry crossing ride down between! Anyone who has ridden (but bigger). Good land of rolling hills and Have to get started early to catch the the road/rail bridges on the West Coast gentle brooks, with trout fishermen trying ferry across the Strait after the last border knows that is not fun. Keep to the right as their luck. More wild animal scares for crossing. Ripio is hard going with dust you cannot easily move there if a truck is the Aussies. They assure us the colour and poor surface. The Honda 500 Enduro coming the other way. The alternative was a of adrenalin is BROWN! The local border breaks the engine bolt that holds the 300km detour, so we all toughed it out, with crossing appears, and we all get it done in headstock downtube, and has to be taken no prangs! Calafate is a Queenstown, tourist 45 minutes. That may sound like a long time on the ute to the destination. At Punta trap, with a picturesque glacier nearby. It’s but at the start we took 2 hours! I’m glad Arenas they machine a new stronger bolt early in their season and the day we arrived the crossings are nearly over as they are and pull the downtube into place and insert was the second fine day in a row for 2/12. an exercise in frustration. We roar past Rio the bolt. We think the 17-inch front wheel Everybody had been doing the detour to get Grande (that is not so grand) on the bypass has bounced across the rough ground there! and then up over the fabulous Garabaldi more than the 21-inch wheels do. Lucky to Pass. It is like a Stelvio Pass in Italy, but is a have it happen near a big port, with facility Calafate to Cerro Sombrero Chile - secret! Down and into Uhsuaia. We have a to machine the bolt. A French rider and his Sealed road of 466km. beach front Hotel to look at the Straights of pillion from another group, have a bad crash

38 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 on the ripio, and she breaks her arm and But suddenly we burst into sun, and dry the prize for “PILLION IN A MILLION”. her leg, and he breaks four ribs. We are not road! Sweeping curves of ripio with good An award she really deserved. We had surprised as they rode like crazy people. surface and scenery like Queenstown. completed, what can only be described as He passed us doing 140km/h on ripio while We wind our way beside turquoise lakes the biggest bucket list challenge yet! As with maneuvering around big trucks. Just too through deep cuttings. Finally we look down all these extreme ventures, we are sad, and fast, if something happens that you are not on our lodgings, and the burned out shell of glad, it was over. expecting. That’s it for their trip. One of our where we were going to stay. The hotel had The GS 800 Adventure compared well Aussies also got invalided home when he burned to the ground 2 days ago! Luckily to our olde GS 100 paralever. It is much tore his thigh muscle in half! He was not our guide organised alternative lodgings. In faster, and can cruise at 160km/h, not that even riding his bike, and fell down a bit of a the distance is El Torro, probably the most we ever did. It has the next generation bank! I did some acupuncture on him as he photographed mountain in South America, suspension. This is its finest feature, and was in a lot of pain, and he had a trip of 5 and we can look at it bathed in golden sun allows great control. It is more of a handful hours in a ute, to a Base Hospital! He later from our hut window. at slow speeds, as the weight is carried said, it helped a lot with the pain, which was much higher, and there is only power if you just as well. He was flown back to Aussie Torres del Paine to Peurto Natales rev it. That tends to promote wheelspin! In a the next day, as surgery was required. This 155km tight uphill turn, in ripio, that is exciting. It is trip is not without risk! Raining and cloudy, so no more photos. also good for 600km with a full tank, which We realise that the last day is infamous for is great in these isolated areas where fuel is Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine – people getting excited and crashing out. not easy to find. Its brakes are superb and I 328km We button off and cruise at 80km/h on the like ABS, even on the ripio. The seat is great The weather turns bad - 4 degrees and ripio. The rain has settled the dust and it is for 400km though Lis used an Airhawke. I very heavy rain, with wind. So bad I have to overcast, rather than raining. We travel back will stick with the GS 100 back in NZ, as I take my glasses off, as they keep fogging on the road that had the heavy rain the day feel the top speed is not as much use here up under the pinlock visor of my full face before - I could not recognise it! We pull in to as low speed handling. The Hidenau tyres helmet. I have to keep 100 metres back the final destination, have the bikes checked out-performed our expectations. Pete Unger from traffic as visibility is so poor. Lis says, for damage, and then celebrate survival, always swore by them. “blue sky ahead” and I think “yeah right”. with a special dinner, with Lis winning Lis & Grant Johnston

MOTORBIKE VENTURES INDOCHINA LTD

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Bookings are open NOW and close on March 1st. Price starts at $8,000 NZ pp including return airfares, accommodation, permits, 60% meals. Contact Chris or Mac on P: 03 5777 238 or email: mv_ [email protected] www.motorbikeventures.co.nz

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 39 ARTICLES SHAG AND OINK AND SOME BLOODY BIG MOUNTAINS

ollowing a prolonged stop-over in Singapore and a further 6½ hours in the air, Hawkeye Parr and I finally landed in Delhi. FMet by a smiling OMG rep who shoe- horned us into a mini-van, we were soon up to our nuts in tuk-tuks, motor bikes, scooters, trucks and buses belching voluminous clouds of black smoke. Add to the mix, suicidal taxis and maniac sedan drivers and the incessant, cacophony of horns shouting ‘get out of my f**kin’ way! One local likened Indian traffic to a fluid; if there’s a gap, something will fill it. You really can get a square peg in a round hole if you’re belligerent enough. The following day was a ‘free day’ and while the rest of the tour group arrived in dribs and drabs, we spent a lot of time form to lose a client on day one. The bus pool side just doing nothing. saying goes, ya pays y’money, y’takes ya also gives them the opportunity to see Of the 17 riders on the tour, 6 were chances.And where does the OMG fit in? the reality of what’s around them and the Kiwis; Don Pannett and Faye Levey from Oh My God! views from the windows are sobering. Cromwell, Rowan Buxton, Ralph Moore, Day one of the tour started early with a We wring our hands and throw the word Steve ’Hawkeye’ Parr of Christchurch. 4hour bus trip north to Chandigarh where ‘poverty’ about with gay abandon but The rest hailing from the Land of Oz, we stopped for lunch and met the OMG when you see squalor such as this you the US, Auld Blighty and two riders from Himalaya team with the bikes; a mix of soon realise most Kiwis have no idea Vietnam. carburetted and injected 500cc Royal what they’re talking about. There really is The route was the same as last year Enfield Bullets. no excuse for ‘poverty’ in NZ with all the and thus I was reasonably familiar with And why the bus ride? Simply to get services and financial hand outs available it. What about the roads? Well, as the out the team safely out of Dodge. It’s bad to us. When a $1600 smart phone is more important than school lunches or rain coats, poverty is nothing more than the result of selfish adults making selfish choices. Hawkeyes granddaughter had given him a large pink knitted pig called Oink. Feeling left out I’d ducked into the duty free at Christchurch and came out with a sheep summarily christened Shag. Ralph had a Kiwi which he strapped to his handlebars. Having ‘dressed’ out bikes loading only what we needed to carry and all non- essentials carried in the luggage 4WD, the mechanics gave the bikes one last check while we all got a thorough debrief. Riding north on NH5 was a baptism of fire and we, on two wheels, were at the

40 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 bottom of the pecking order. You really need your wits about you; yours eyes, mirrors and horn in constant use. Our destination was the Woodville Palace Hotel, Shimla. A grand old lady who has seen the best of it and slowly aging with dignity. It was the party house for the rich and famous and photos of celebs like Clarke Gable, Fred Astaire, Ginger Rodgers, Marlene Dietrich and many more hang between tiger head trophies and photos of the Raj. Shimla was overcast and damp come day break but not as bedraggled as Ralphs’ monkey. Still strapped to the handle bars it was looking very much the worse for wear. Apparently one of the many Macaque monkeys that frequent his area was seen rogering the bejesus and as we continue northwards the hastily bulldozed path across loose scree. out of it. Hell of a funny and no one vegetation begins to thin into a landscape The sections of clean blacktop are to be wanted to touch it. Poor Ralph wasn’t fractured and shattered and as dry as a celebrated; they’re few and far between. quite as amused carefully untying it and dead dingos’ donger. Akpa is the first of Most are in an utter state of disrepair, pot washing it in hot soapy water. Despite a number of police checkpoints where holed, cracked, crumbling and broken; the the best advice and counselling, the poor our passports and Inner Line Permits are holes filled with crushed rock broken up thing never really got over the ordeal, scrutinized. We’re riding towards an area by groups of women and girls sitting on nor I suspect, the empty hollow feeling that borders Tibet, claimed by India but the side of the road wielding hammers. of rejection because the Macaque as far disputed by China and these checks are And the scenery? Well that never fails to as I know hasn’t rung, messaged or even more to keep track of where everyone is. leave you in awe. tweeted. But Macaque social media has It was also getting very hot; the Dhaba An oasis sitting amongst terraced fields gone viral with selfies. providing an opportunity to wash the dust of vegetables and fruit trees, the village From Shimla, we continued north into off your teeth. At Khab, the Sutlej River of Nako hugs a very small lake which the the foothills of the Himalayas to Narkanda hung a right towards Tibet while we now locals tell me is shrinking as the Chinese then dropped down to the Sutlej River following the Spiti River north into the draw off more of the snow melt water valley where for the next two days we famed Spiti Valley. across the border a few k’s away. When would follow the river in full spate laden The few roads in Spiti suffer badly from the lake dies, this village inhabited for with snow melt and sediment. water erosion and slips as the winter centuries, dies with it. Nako is the first This area of the Himachal Pradesh snows melt; a near hopeless task to make of our tent camps and at 3,600m you’re is affluent; forests of pine and deodar, them passable for the brief few months breathing hard carrying your gear up from rhodos and steep hillsides terraced of summer. The humble JCB’s can be the 4WD. with orchards of apples and citrus seen everywhere; waiting in a queue The township of Kaza was our next and vegetables of every shape and breathing dust until the little yellow stick overnight stay. If you thought the riding kind flourishing in the rocky soil. The insect clears a path through the rubble yesterday was great, today eclipsed that. scenery is stunning, the traffic while still wide enough to gets the bikes through. A It’s probably the first time where looking unforgiving, is thinning. Some ‘roads’ tiny yellow dot barely visible on a far off out over vast valleys towards distant hacked out of the rock and shale by scree slope clearing a branch road to a peaks, you become aware of the enormity hand, cling to these near vertical hillsides. remote village urgently wanting supplies. of the Himalayas. No matter how high These ‘off-piste’ tracks may appear Slips can occur anytime and anywhere you will get and how far you look, there’s devoid of traffic but appearances can be and if you’re between two of them, I hope always something higher and further! deceptive because when you least expect you packed enough water and snacks It was also the day that Oink left us. it there’s a bus full of black faces and because you could be there a while. It I could hear singing, kids laughing, so I staring white eyes leaning precariously pays to head the advice of BRO, the stopped, climbed the bank and peered as it thunders round a blind corner and Border Road Organisation signs warning over a wall. Lunchtime at a school and you’re in the wrong place up shit creek of ‘SHOOTING STONES’. a hushed silence as this spaceman without a paddle. Narrow and twisting under towering appeared. Hawkeye gave Oink to a young In Episode 5 of Ice Road Truckers: cliffs or over hangs to your right or lass, who not sure what to do with it or Deadliest Roads, Lisa Kelly and Rick plunging drop-offs to the left, across even accept it at first, was soon hugging Yemm drove along a mountain road such broad expanses of barren moonscape, the life out of him. However Shag stayed as these. the word ‘road’ encompasses any surface with me; I could see the hurt in his eyes, Kalpa sits at an altitude of 2,600m that’s passable from 2-lane black top to a the moment of disbelief that I could

Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 41 ARTICLES

contemplate abandoning him. Kaza also has the only petrol station. If the convoy of tankers can’t get through and you’re not carrying spare gas, you’ve no choice but to wait until the road has been cleared. Like the Russian SWB trucks in northern Vietnam, these Tata trucks are built like brick shithouses. They need to be to survive given what’s expected of them. Hawkeye and I rode to check out the iconic and much photographed Key Gompa, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery about 12km away. What an amazing place and the view from its walls is breath taking, truly. 65 so he wasn’t too worried. One punter along a stretch of road in name only. How The following morning and with time in whose pulse fluttered around 120 was put the suspension, the frame and all things hand due to a late start Hawkeye and I on medication and faced being sent home attached stayed attached amazes me rode into the village to the Travellers Shed if there was no improvement. and while many wore signs of an abused Café (google it). It is a bikers café with a While there is alcohol available in most upbringing, these little bikes really are Royal Enfield repair shop out back and places, rule of thumb is 1 beer up here bulletproof. has the only wifi in the district (as slow as = 4 at home and the thumping hangover As we sat chewing on protein bars, the 2nd coming of Christ, but never mind). you cannot avoid really isn’t worth it. sipping on the spicy Masala chai, sucking Over a great coffee we posted photos on Although not the highest village in from Camel-backs or dipping a finger- Facebook for them’s back ‘ome and had India, the picturesque Kibber village burning Naan into Dahl, there was a quiet a good chat with the boys keen to hear sits at 4205m. Riding through we called excitement as we waited for Samba to about the riding in New Zealand because out to the group of Aussis we’d been deal with the authorities at another of the they knew all about our roads. leap frogging for the past few days permit checks. Because 18km up ahead While most people manage the commenting on their nations’ unnatural was Kunzum La. At 4530m it was the first symptoms, altitude sickness is not to be love of animal husbandry; sheep of the high passes we would traverse this taken lightly. It can kill. From Kaza until shaggers! Well off the beaten track, the trip. after the pass of Tanglang La, at 5,360m, spectacular Chicham Valley give up its Strings of gaily coloured prayer flags the doctor accompanying the tour would secrets to those willing to stray. slung along the ridge top lined the check riders daily for abnormal BPs, All good things must come to an end approaches to the white stupas. Behind resting pulse rates and blood O2. As to and dropping down towards the Spiti us was the Spiti Valley. Up ahead, the be expected my BP rose, my O2 dropped River, we rejoined NH505 and continued road plunged and bucked for 8 tortured from 95 to 87% but my pulse sat at 63, west towards the check point at Losar kms to the floor of the Chenab River valley. While photos were taken and those awed by the view took time to look, I bounced and slid my way down to the turn-off to Chandra Taal (Lake of the Moon). It was blowing a gale and the dust was annoying as I sat on a rock and as the riders dribbled in pointed them in the right direction. An Indian on a RE Himalaya stopped and in some distress asked me for help. His friends’ bike had broken down. What should he do? The only repair shop was way back at Kaza! I told him to wait with his friend and flag the red Mahindra ute with OMG on the side and to tell the mechanics Mr Chris said it’s OK. You don’t leave people out here. An hour or more had slipped by before

42 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 COME ON A SPECTACULAR the last of the riders had past and it was RIDE IN THAILAND a very hot, dusty and dry Mr Chris who followed his flock the 12kms to the tent JOIN US FOR THE RIDE OF A LIFETIME IN 2019! camp. There was a good frost when we rode back to NH505 regrouping at the Dhaba in Batal and a briefing of things to come. If last year was anything to go by, this would be a tough day of riding and it didn’t disappoint. However, two of the iconic water crossings viewed by millions on U-Tube had been tamed with culverts. A temporary fix I fear because the first snow melt will fill them full of rubble then they’ll really be something to ponder over. Scattered in strategic places along these mountain routes you find Dhaba. Temporary structures with schist walls and tarpaulin roofs, they spring up over • Resort style accommodation with fully cooked breakfast the brief summer period to be dismantled • Lunch and Dinner for most of the trip before winter buries them under meters • Motorcycle hire (Honda CB500X) of snow. These roadside cafes offer rest • Motorcycle insurance and respite; hot food, hot and cold drinks, • Support vehicle and backup guide water, biscuits, chocolate, Maggi instant • Karel & Howard as your riding buddies noodles, amongst many choices. Some • Sealed roads with tons of sublime corners (no off-road riding) had sleeping quarters for those too weary YOU MEET US IN CHIANG MAI, NORTHERN THAILAND or delayed reluctant to ride through the WHERE THIS INCREDIBLE JOURNEY BEGINS. night; a darkness as black as the inside of a cow and as cold as a witches tit. 2019 DATES While we drank bottled water, we ate 4-16 JULY 2019 13 DAY TRIP NZ$ 4795 (solo rider) the food because in this mountain region 24 JULY - 2 AUG 2019 10 DAY TRIP NZ$ SOLD3695 (soloOUT rider) it is predominantly vegetarian, tasty and filling and just what the doctor ordered. ASK ABOUT OUR PILLION/PARTNER RATES The ginger, lemon and honey tea became my drink of choice. However, I must confess I was hanging out for a Fairlie Bakery’s pork belly and apple pie. We joined the Manali-Leh Highway at MOTORCYCLING Gramphoo The Manali-Leh Hghway takes in the Rohtang Pass, a bit over 3,000m, www.magicmotorcycling.com and this the ‘iconic’ Himalayan road [email protected] many choose to ride when they ‘do the Himalayas’ so traffic volumes increased. Tel: 021 125 9052 With the team taking a breather at Kokhsar, I kept going. I had 36kms of smooth 2-lane blacktop and sweeping bends to the turn-off to my next cornerman duty. This was an opportunity to let the Bullet clear her throat and the little single was happily thumping away.

Follow the rest of Captain Carefree’s story next issue. And if you’re keen for an adventure, visit: www.motorbikeventures.co.nz NEED DENTAL TREATMENT? Thailand offers some excellent dental treatment at very competitive prices. Karel & Howard can introduce you to their preferred clinic in Chiang Mai. RALLIES

MAYHEM IN FEBRUARY 1997 - 2019 Sunday 3rd March 2019 In the spirit of Ulysses Waikato Ulysses 22nd - 24th February 2019

Whanganui's Almost Back To Basics Summer Rally: Mangatepopo Reminder for 2019. This is no longer the TOY RUN sorry!!! Camp on State Highway 47 So NO Toy Donations thanks, BUT the kids would love you to What to Bring: Your bedding and linen requirements, including decorate your bikes with toys and dress as a kid’s character/hero pillows. Your food, drinks and tea towels for drying your dishes What's Available: Heated bedrooms which sleep 3, 4 or 6 Child Cancer Foundation (get yourself a group together and book a room) Plenty of showers and toilets Well appointed kitchen for self catering plus Charity Motorcycle Ride

spacious dining facilities Games room, Large drying room Room for camper vans, motor homes and tents Show your support to the kids and their families … Things to do: Plenty of walks in the area community welcome 

Fishing (arrange own licenses) Less than 30 minutes drive from Whakapapa Village and Ski Slopes, Turangi and Tokaanu Hot Pools Theme: “Kid’s heroes”

Bring your dirt bikes, trikes, quads or Mountain bikes – (we are at the opposite end from Owhango of the 42km traverse). Gala: Entertainment, prizes, stalls, activities, FUN!

Be aware that the tracks are open to the public and are used by many different groups so care is needed Starting in: Selwyn Park, Te Awamutu: 9:30am – 11.45

Ending at: Selwyn Park, Te Awamutu: 12.15 – 1.30pm FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Darryl Greeks and Camp Mother, Lorraine Greeks (06) 345-6624 or 027-229-1294 Whanganui Don Morison (04) 476-9516 Wellington

Waikato Ulysses Branch invites you to join Tauranga Ulysses NORTHERN ODYSSEY 2019 You will be given a route of approx. 1000kms of North Island roads selected for Cub Rally their good riding, great scenery and points of interest along the way. Every hour or so, you will need to stop and find the answer to a question. The 2019 Odyssey Date: 3rd, 4th & 5th May 2019 will take you on a loop around the Central North Island starting and finishing at the Classic Car Museum in Hamilton. Venue: Sea Esta Camp & Lodge, 48 Seaforth Rd, Waihi Beach.( New Owners)

The questions can be completed any time between Boxing Day (26 December Cost: $60 per head, includes accommodation, Saturday breakfast and evening meal, Sunday breakfast. 2018) and ANZAC Day (25 April 2019). The route can be completed as one On Friday night you can visit the local RSA for a meal or there are several takeaways nearby. There will

continuous ride or several short rides. also be a light meal available at the camp for $5. Payable on the night.

REGISTRATION: $30.00 Name……………………………………………………………… Ulysses No…………………………….

ENTRIES: Entries accepted until end of March 2019; Early Bird entries before Pillion……………………………………………………………… Ulysses No…………………………… 15th December 2018 receive a $10.00 Wild Bean coffee voucher with their Badge Address…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. on completion.

Email………………………………………………….. Phone No……………………………………….. Entries open to all, Ulysses members and non-members. The Fee is set to break-

even on the event. Enclosed Entry Fee $ …………………………. Closing Date: 19th April 2019

======The venue has had a considerable upgrade. If you require a map or receipt, please enclose a self- addressed envelope. I agree to abide by the rules and regulations for the rally and will hold blameless To enter, simply send your Name, Postal address, Email address (if you have one) all organisers and officials associated with the rally, for any injury or damage while participating at the and phone number to: [email protected] OR by post to: PO Box 5232, Frankton, Hamilton 3242 AND pay the $30.00 Entry fee to: Ulysses Club, event or travelling to or from the event. Please no BYO.

Waikato Branch, Westpac Account No: 03 1555 0013109 00 or by cheque to PO Signature Rider………………………………… Signature Pillion …………………………….. Box above – cheques payable to: “Ulysses Club, Waikato Branch”. Please send to: Tauranga Ulysses Club, PO Box 160, 7th Avenue, Tauranga, or

Bank transfer or cheque – make sure the sender’s name is clear. Email completed form to [email protected].

The Organisers, Jim Galt & David Coy of Ulysses Club, Waikato Branch, are not Direct credit to 0101434020865000, put your name as reference and Ulysses membership No. responsible for any damage or injury to participants in the Northern Odyssey. Queries to 075433042 or 0275862121.

44 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 RALLIES

Runs & Rallies MARLBOROUGH BRANCH KAITUNA RIDGES ‘BACK TO BASICS’ DECEMBER HAVELOCK 2019 With kind permission of the owners, Paul & Muff Newton. 1 Toy Run, Buller Branch, Westport 8 Toy Run, Marlborough Branch, Blenheim DATE: Friday to Sunday 22th – 24th February 2019, 15 Northern Odyssey 2019 Early Bird Rally opens Friday 3pm, closes Sun 2pm All participants MUST register. See Marlborough Branch Rego deadline website for Registration Form. 26 Northern Odyssey 2019 commences, DIRECTIONS: End of Readers Road, approx 3 km south of Waikato Branch Havelock. 26 Boxing Day Races, Whanganui Branch, RALLY MARSHALL: Kelvin Watson. ACCOMODATION: Limited floor space in woolshed, first in best secure parking posie, need to bring air bed / sleeping bag. JANUARY Motorhomes, caravans or tin tops are welcome. TENT SITES: Lovely sites available near Kaituna river or closer to 1 Milky Bar Run, Auckland Branch woolshed, your choice. COSTS: $35 per person which includes Saturday night dinner. FEBRUARY Tea and coffee available free all weekend. Mayhem in February, BYO food for Friday night and breakfasts. 22 – 24 Mangatepopo, DRINKS: BYO, no rubbish to be left on site please. Whanganui Branch GENERAL: This is a great opportunity for older & newer members to 22 – 24 Back to Basics Rally, Marlborough enjoy the way it used to be, BACK TO BASICS at an affordable cost. Usual Friday & Saturday nights entertainment. Raffle Saturday night. Branch Limited numbers so PLEASE REGISTER EARLY. Don’t miss out! MARCH REGISTRATION: Closing date for registration is TUESDAY 19th FEBRUARY. No late entries accepted. 3 Child Cancer Charity Run, Waikato NOTE: Numbers are limited, registrations will close earlier if maximum number is reached before 18th Feb. Branch 9 – 10 Frankton Thunder, Hamilton 29 – 31 National Rally & AGM, Hastings

NOTE: Ulysses events in BOLD. For more details of each event see ad at end of The Ulysses Club Ulyssian, or Ulysses website – www.ulysses.org.nz or, contact local Coordinator or, use Google. 2019 National Rally Coordinators: to have your significant Runs & Rallies Hosted by the Hawke’s Bay Branch in Hastings, Hawkes Bay included in the R & R list for future editions of The Friday 29th – Sunday 31st March 2019 Ulyssian please advise David Coy at: [email protected] two weeks before the edition deadline. Thanks. Venue; Clubs Hastings – 308 Victoria Street,

Hastings 4122

th Ulysses Boxing Day Parking Registration: From 1PM Friday 29 Saturday Night

Whanganui Branch Theme is: “Last of the Summer Whine” Wear your flat cap, scruffy suit, baggy stockings, pinny, fish net stockings, mini skirt, frock or best suit and come as Follow the signs when coming into Whanganui Clegg, Compo, Nora Batty, Foggy, Truly, Pearl, Marina or Howard etc. Entrance off Guyton Street, look for the "Amdram" theatre on the left going away from the town centre or on the right towards CBD, well signed as you travel along Guyton Street also a Ulysses member “The even’n be champion, plenty o’ chelpin, tha nite wearing Hi Vis jacket will be directing bikes at the entrance. go-off chuffin well”.

Fee $10.00 includes all day secure parking for bike and gear. FOR REGISTRATION FORMS – PLEASE CONTACT This year we have a speedy new system in place, so please have BRANCH COORDINATOR your cash handy on arrival. MIKE SHAW 021 458 330 OR EMAIL AT Contact: Neil Ross 06-3488325 or Piet Meijer 06-3484141 [email protected] Facebook: Ulysses Whanganui Members and Friends Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 | 45 COORDINATORS’ CONTACT DETAILS

The Ulysses Club of New Zealand Incorporated – New Zealand Ulysses Branch Coordinators, Meeting Times and Addresses Version 01/05/2018 To update your Branch’s information, please contact the National Secretary – contact details inside front cover.

Branch Address Phone / Email Fax / Mobile ADMINISTRATION: 0800 ULYSSES P O Box 40218, UPPER HUTT, 5140 021 072 3636 Debby Morgan [email protected] AUCKLAND 1/541 Pakuranga Rd, Howick Auckland, 2010 09 535 4579 027 481 2700 Clive Thomas Manukau Cruising Club, Orpheus Drive, Onehunga, 1st Monday monthly, 7.30pm [email protected] BULLER 49 Romilly Street, Westport 7825 03 789 4030 021 058 9960 Rex Collins 1st Tuesday of each month at Club Buller [email protected] CANTERBURY 24 Glencoe Street Burnside Christchurch 8053 03 358 7494 021 127 3363 Steve Orpwood Cashmere Club, 88 Hunter Tce, Christchurch, 3rd Wednesday monthly 7.30pm [email protected] FAR NORTH 7 Otaika Rd, Woodhill, Whangarei 0110 09 438 4855 027 483 5183 Nick Grbin Burger King, Whangarei, Sundays at 10.30am [email protected] GISBORNE 277 Bloomfield Road RD 1 Makauri Gisborne 4071 06 868 9661 Christine (Chris) 027 460 2430 Tatapouri Fishing Club first Thursday monthly 7-30pm [email protected] Cameron HAWKES BAY 4 York Ave, Tamatea, Napier 4112 06 844 4506 021 424 638 Barry Robertson Clubs Hastings, 1st Wednesday monthly 7.30pm [email protected] KAPITI COAST 7 Cedar Drive, Paraparaumu Beach, Paraparaumu 5032 [email protected] 021 127 9595 Tony Russell 1st Wed Mth 7:30pm. Odd Mths The Jolly, Paraparaumu/ Even Mths Otaki RSA. KING COUNTRY 17 Seddon Street, TE KUITI, 3910 07 878 5009 027 850 201 Graeme Hammond Contact Graeme for details [email protected] MANAWATU 26 Park View Ave, Fielding 4702. 06 323 2660 027 564 0640 Murray Cross 2nd Tuesday each month (except January) at the Bunnythorpe Tavern at 7.30pm. [email protected] MARLBOROUGH 143B Maxwell Road, Blenheim 7201 [email protected] 027 306 7344 Kelvin Watson Vines Village Rapaura Road every Saturday Morning 10am NELSON 11 Springlea Heights, Atawhai, Nelson. Speights Ale House (opposite WOW complex), every 03 545 1919 021 276 5656 Lorraine Lindsay Saturday 10am to 12 noon. [email protected] NORTH HARBOUR P O Box 100 054 NSMC Auckland 0745 09-444 2770 027 289 1018 Wayne Painter 1st Thurs.Mth 5.30-9pm Pupuke Golf Club, 231 East Coast Rd, Campbells Bay, North Shore [email protected] NORTH OTAGO 123 Thames Street, Oamaru 9400 03 439 5545 021 501 102 Bruce Thacker Criterion Hotel, Cnr Harbour & Tyne Sts, Oamaru, 3rd Wednesday of each month [email protected] OTAGO 73B Factory Rd, Mosgeil 9024 [email protected] 021 140 1344 Terry Clapham First Tues. each month, 7:00 pm at the Otago M/C Club (OMCC) rooms 3 Clark St ROTORUA 10 Moke Road, Rotorua 3010 [email protected] 027 345 8634 Gordon White St John Ambulance Hall, Peririka Street 7.00pm last Sunday of the month SOUTHLAND 12 Martin St, Invercargill 9812 03 218 2900 Ross Lawry Ride 3rd Sunday of month. Meet at Southland Honda Clyde St at 10.30am. [email protected] TARANAKI 152 Kina Road, RD 31, Opunake 4681 06 763 8571 027 412 0913 Suzi Pentelow New Plymouth Club, 49-55 Gill Street, New Plymouth. 6pm, 3rd Wednesday monthly [email protected] TAUMARUNUI 4366 State Highway 4 RD 1, Ongarue, TAUMARUNUI, 3994 07 895 9244 Bob Kendrick R S A, 2nd Tues. each month. Rides 10.00am , BP [email protected] TAUPO 53 Kiddle Dr, Hilltop, Taupo 3330 07 377 3550 027 435 8259 Rick Kosterman Taupo Cosomopolitian Club Taniwha Street, 7:30pm. 2nd Thursday each month. [email protected] TAURANGA 07 5711621 Tauranga Citizens Club, Thirteenth Avenue, 7.30pm, 3rd Tuesday monthly 0274 971847 Graham Vincent [email protected] TURANGI 65 Te Rangitautahanga Rd Turangi 3334 07 386 0922 027 321 0619 Deb Treweek Bridge Motel SH1 Turangi 7.30 pm 2nd Wednesday each month [email protected] WAIHI-THAMES VALLEY 210 Edward Street, Coromandel 3506 07 866 8019 027 223 2629 Marlene Johnson Paeroa RSA 67 Belmont Rd Paeroa 3.pm, Sunday 2 monthly Check www.ulysseswtv.org.nz [email protected] WAIKATO PO Box 5232, Frankton, Hamilton 3242 07 843 3119 021 901 557 Jim Galt Waikato Commerce Club, 197 Collingwood St, 1st Mon Mthly 7.30pm (except Jan) [email protected] WAIRARAPA 461B High Street South 06 379 7566 029 222 0562 Nik Player Wairarapa Services & Citizen’s Club, Essex Street Masterton, 3rd Monday monthly 7:30pm [email protected] WANGANUI 33C Pitt Street Wanganui 4500 06-348 4141 021 143 6137 Piet Meijer RSA 170 St Hill Street Wanganui, 7.30pm, 1st Thursday monthly [email protected] WELLINGTON 47 Ward Street, Wallaceville, UPPER HUTT 5018 04 971 2893 021 244 2091 Jim Furneaux Petone Workingmen’s Club, Udy Street, Petone, 7.30pm, 2nd Tuesday monthly [email protected] WESTLAND 8 Park St, Hokitika 7810 03 755 5367 027 439 8929 Annette Paterson Varies, contact Annette for details [email protected] WHAKATANE 103 Paroa Rd, RD1 Whakatane, PO Box 784, Whakatane 07 308 8738 027 363 2177 Sue Holmes Ohope Charter Club, Ohope, 7.30pm, 2nd Wednesday monthly [email protected]

46 | Ulyssian DECEMBER 2018 Market-leading motorcycle

insurance for Ulysses Club NZ’S FAVOURITE ROAD BIKE MAGAZINE members

As the preferred insurance broker to the Ulysses Club, Aon offers their members Prestige motorcycle insurance which includes discounted rates and enhanced Key features include: policy cover. • Reduced policy excesses • Age, multiple bike, loyalty, trike, Named Rider and Restricted Usage discounts available Aon’s insurance offer provides cover for all types of on-road • New replacement motorcycle for total motorcycles including 3 wheelers, and off-road motorcycles including loss within 24 months of registration as quad bikes, competition motorcycles (not covered whilst racing), a new motorcycle up to 30,000km motorcycle collections and classic/vintage motorcycles. • Windscreen/shield, headlights or tail lights covered with nil excess • Roadside assistance for comprehensive For more information, please contact Leonie Steedman cover We have an exclusive offer to current members of the Ulysses Club of NZ, • Automatic Riding Apparel cover 0800 65 62 64 • Optional Replacement Riding Apparel $15 off the normal 12 month subscription [email protected] cover • Nil excess for one claim within 12 price to Bike Rider Magazine. months with a Ride Forever training course certificate Just $89 for Ulysses members. aon.co.nz Just call us on 07 862 6957 and quote your Ulysses membership number or subscribe online at brm.co.nz with the code ULY089. If the cost was roughly the same, for obvious reasons, you’d choose the original over the clone.

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