May - BMWOR
Transcription
May - BMWOR
May 2005 R E T T E L S W E N http://www.bmwor.org.nz Around The South Island. Rag Rally: Pokaka. Thems The Brakes. Intercoms BMW Owners Register Newsletter Events Calendar. Branch reports. Market Place. & much more 1 May 2005 Events Calendar: Meetings and Events: North to South. National http://www.bmwor.org.nz Send editorial copy including advertisements to: Dave Morris & Cheryl Marquis 12 Tarras Grove Kelson, Lower Hutt New Zealand bmwormag@xtra.co.nz All other correspondence to: The Secretary BMWOR of NZ P O Box 109-245 Newmarket AUCKLAND 1001 NEW ZEALAND PRESIDENT Graham Smith 09-235 2414 ruemar@ps.gen.nz SECRETARY Alex Breig 09-629 2963 abreig@xtra.co.nz TREASURER Barbara Ennor 06-843 2543 barbles@paradise.net.nz EDITOR Dave Morris & Cheryl Marquis 04 565 3592 bmwormag@xtra.co.nz June 4-5. BMWOR 30 Year Anniversary Celebrations, Auckland. (See pages 8 & 9.) July 9. Henry’s Wicked Weekend. Waitomo. (See page 18.) Northland Inquiries to Area Rep. Auckland Fly Spotters rides Rusty Nuts Southern Cross Rally Starts Bluff. 1pm Sunday 8th May – Wed 11th May, Cape Reinga – Thurs 12th May, East Cape – Fri 13th May, Cape Egmont Rusty Nuts Grand Challenge 1000miler 15-16th October For details rustyinfo@rustynuts.co.nz or P.O.Box 12608 Penrose. Bronz Ride Right Ride Safe. This is a good way to get to know your new bike. Normally held on the 3rd Sunday of the month at the Whenuapai Airbase. Contact Peggy on (09) 6389227 or Finn on (09) 6255533 for details. Waikato Any Sunday Morning for coffee and /or breakfast at Zigilini’s Café, on the corner of Grey and Wellington Streets, Hamilton East. Meet 9.00-9.30am. An impromptu ride from there. Bay of Plenty May 22 Sunday: Monthly Ride: Ride the Murupara Loop, leaving Caltex Tauriko at 09h30 sharp. Lunch stop at Mamaku Blue Winery at 12h30. This ride is a longer ride, aimed at the more experienced rider. Those keen on a shorter, more sedate but still excellent ride may choose to leave from Tauriko at around 11h15 to ride over the Kaimais and along SH 5 to Mamaku to join us for lunch. May 5 Thursday: Social Night from 18h00 onwards at Café Hasan Baba, Grey Street, Tauranga. Good food, better company. MEMBERSHIP John Wuts 06-844 4751 wutsie@xtra.co.nz June 4 Saturday: 30th Anniversary ride: Ride to Experience BMW in Auckland. Final details out next month and by email. REGALIA Maria Walker 09-813 2310 NOEL-BLONDIEWALKER@xtra.co.nz East Coast Please Note: Any material intended for publication in the newsletter should reach the editor no later than the 15th of the month preceding publication. The newsletter is an open forum for all members. Views expressed by members may not necessarily represent the views of BMWOR of NZ. Publication of all material is subject to the Editor's discretion. BMW Owners Register Newsletter Hot August Night 2005: The premier BMWOR event of the year is back! Please see display advertisement. The five destinations ride is on again. Destinations for this year are, 1 Pahiatua - plane in play ground. 2 Ohakea - plane by museum. 3 Mangaweka - aeroplane tearooms. 4 Taupo - aeroplane in car yard by McDonalds. 5 Napier - rocket, Mersy St. Pandora. You have until October to collect a photo at each site with your bike in it. Over the next few months we will have some rides to these places so watch your e-mails. There will be a BBQ in October to have a look at the photos. Enjoy your riding. Dave. 2 May 2005 Taranaki May, Sunday 22nd. Meet at 3A turn off at 10.30am June. Trying to organise an overnighter. Will inform you in next month’s issue. Rangitikei May, Sunday 8th. We will host a ride around Rangitikei for our Wellington friends as well as enjoying lunch with them at a convivial cafe in the district. Wanganui members meet at Airport turn off for a 10 am departure. Palmerston North people meet at Caltex Fitzherbert Ave. at 11am. The Wellington and Wanganui groups should be here before 11 am to have a reviver and possible refuel and then we can all depart at approx. 11.20 am. Lunch should be between 12.30 and 1 pm. Sunday 29th. Afternoon ride. (Details to be emailed soon.) Tuesday 31st. Tea meeting in Palmerston North at 7.15 pm. (Venue still being discussed.) Wellington May Sunday 8th. (Mothers Day, so pencil in this ride and bring her along with you). “Tour Rangitikei”. Rangitikei members are hosting a ride for us in their area and will also decide on the lunch venue. A good turn out will demonstrate our appreciation. Meet at Shell Mana for a 9.00 am departure. For further information phone Norman 479-1591. May Tuesday 17th. Pub night at the Parrot and Jigger, Station Village complex, Lower Hutt from 7.00 pm. A get together for a drink and chat, although some may wish to also have a meal. Non alcoholic drinks are available. Please bring some thoughts regarding rides that you would like to do. For further information phone Norman 479-1591 Winter Programme We are now in our Winter programme for the Wellington region and will be doing shorter runs but always with a lunch/cup of tea stop, where we will find the time to eat, gossip and discuss the finer points of BMW motorcycles. So please come and join us in the following months. Also please wear your name badge so that we know who you are. June Sunday 12th – Tour the Wairarapa. Lunch at the Gladstone Inn. Meet at Caltex Rimutaka for a 10.30 departure. For further information phone Bill 587-3234. Nelson May Sunday 15th. Ride to Portage. Meet Millers Acre carpark 10.00am. COFFEE MORNING. Any Saturday at Squires Cafe, Main Road, STOKE, from 10.15am. Marlborough May, Thursday 12th. Monthly Coffee Night. 8-00pm onwards. Bellafico Cafe Maxwell Rd Blenheim. Canterbury First Sunday of the month; meet for lunch at The Blue Duck café which is on the Christchurch/Akaroa highway near Motukarara at noon (this café used to be The Black Tulip). An impromptu run may occur after lunch. If your partner does not ride bring them in the car to meet with other non-riding partners. Note: After the success of our first lunch at The Blue Duck we have decided to continue with this venue for the time being. 2005 Ride Calendar – A copy of the full Canterbury ride calendar for the year is available from Geoff and Gill on 03-3294655 or geoffandgill.bmwor@paradise.net.nz. Gill and Geoff Otago/Southland Inquiries to Area Rep. BMW Owners Register Newsletter 3 May 2005 Smithies Soapbox. What fantastic bike riding weather we are still enjoying. A lot of K’ms will have been added to the speedo. The 30th Anniversary arrangements are finalised now and look fantastic. Thanks to Terry (can you organise the 40th?) The ride on the Sunday morning is almost identical to the Club’s first ever ride, so will be something special! Get your entry forms in as it will be a popular event. I have been swamped with replies from people that would like to be on the Executive!! Seriously, it is not difficult to do. Alex and I have put a year planner together, with everything that has to be organised and when, so it’s a piece of cake. If you are or know anyone who is interested, let me know. I would like to thank Dave and Cheryl for the great job they are doing on the mag.!! If anyone would like to do some rider training let me know. O.K. gotta go, my bike is calling me! Good riding and keep the shiny side up!!! Graham. EDITORIAL: BIKE SHOPS The BMW (bike) dealer network is still taking shape. For some of us, it’s not a problem. We live within riding distance for the trade-in or a service. Some of us are lucky; drop the bike off at the start of a day and pick it up after work, job completed, and ready to ride on home. Just another working day, - really. But spare a thought for the out-of-towners, who still choose to own a BMW bike (- good on yer, mate! -) despite the distance from an authorised BMW service centre. Starts with a phone call to book the job in, riding several hours, and spending the day in town and then turn around and travel back home. The other option perhaps is to take the bike to their local workshop and have their mechanic work on it. They no doubt do a good job; but spare parts will need to be ordered in and there’s a day or two lost. Now buying a bike must be a little easier, bike shops all around our country will sell a pre-loved Beemer. A search on the Internet will prove that; and many of the shops take advantage of Bike Point. There must be shops around the country that, if you didn’t live too handy, you might never get to hear of them. For example, I have been riding and driving around the Hutt Valley and seen a new shop, TSS Motorcycles open up. Occasionally I notice a Beemer on display. It wasn’t until last month when there were 3 on the forecourt, that I stopped and inspected. I also had a friend buy a very nice GS just that past week. The 3 bikes I saw were 2 late model F6550’s and an ex rental R1150R complete with mounted Givi set. Someone (x3) will be lucky! Well, there is a place (locality) for this bike shop; Another local shop had closed down last year in the valley, so there was a market waiting to happen on clothing and accessories. TSS have certainly done that. Watch that winter riding! Dave & Cheryl. BMW Owners Register Risk Management Plan Introduction: The BMW Owners Register is an organisation whose members join together for rides to nominated venues and for other social occasions. The organiser nominates the destination and regrouping stages along the way, but otherwise has no influence upon the way that riders behave on the road. There is no element of organised competition in the rides. Riding Code: 1. All register members on register rides shall do so as individuals responsible for their own safety and shall take into account the safety of others they encounter on the ride. 2. Register members are responsible for ensuring that their motorcycles are in a safe and legal condition, the minimum being to Warrant of Fitness standards. 3. Riders, pillions, and sidecar passengers where required, shall have as a minimum Standards New Zealand approved motorcycle helmets, and stout footwear, gloves and clothing that will be capable of protecting their body in the event of a mishap. 4. Register members are to go to the aid of any others suffering a mishap. 5. Ride organisers shall nominate the destination for the ride as well as any regrouping locations or other stops. The organiser is not responsible for other rider’s behaviour or safety. 6. Riders shall ride at a speed and in a way that is comfortable for them. Do not ride outside your personal comfort envelope. 7. If the rider is unfamiliar with the route, they shall arrange to follow another rider who does know the way and who travels at a comfortable pace. 8. Riders who decide to travel as a group shall adopt a staggered riding formation such that there is an accepted following distance to the rider immediately in front. A reasonable following distance is indicated by a time of two seconds between riders for dry conditions, and longer for inclement conditions and on loose surfaces. 9. The Organiser and or the Register are not responsible for participant’s safety, and all participants participate at their own risk. All participants are aware that they are travelling on open public roads and are responsible for their own safety and compliance with all Road Rules and Laws. BMW Owners Register Newsletter 4 May 2005 AREA REPORTS Waikato March and April has seen some good turnouts and new faces at Zigilini’s with plenty of great rides around Waikato’s secondary roads. Bryan Bay of Plenty The 30th Anniversary approaches apace. I would like to encourage all members to attend as many of the functions as possible. For those unable to spend the whole weekend in Auckland, there will be a ride departing Tauranga on the Saturday to attend the Experience BMW function. Final departure and return details out next month, but rough times are: depart Tauranga 11 am, return leaving Auckland at 4 pm. Clive. The month of April has had excellent autumn weather, and with it a lovely ride into the Waikato organized by Peter. Although only four bikes were present, Taranaki it was good fun. The formal ride to Ohinemuri will follow the deadline for this The last weekend of daylight saving was newsletter, so more on that front later. upon us and Monika, Dave and I decided to head to the Rag rally at Tongariro This month’s social night was well National Park. Dave was well equipted attended, but there were a few missing with tent, deck chairs and umbrella. We faces. New members, please feel free decided to ride inland through to to come along. You will be made to feel Whangamomona Taumarunui. Knowing that there was welcome. 14kms of gravel through the Tangarakau Plans for this year’s Hot August Night Gorge didn’t deter us two girls at all. I are well under way. The format will follow must say it was a very long 14km. Once a well-tested formula, but will have a few you get back on to the tar seal it was no stopping us. It must be one of the most improvements: amazing roads in the North Island. On • The afternoon will feature a reaching Taumarunui it was time for an demo bike, a technical session overdue stop: Lunching out on pancakes covering an item of interest to and bacon. all bikers and also a special Back on our bikes we headed off to find generously catered Happy Hour. the rally. On reaching the rally we were You will need to be in Omokoroa really impressed with the lay out. We by around 3 pm to get the full wondered why Dave had brought the tent and the umbrella. The sun was shining benefit of all that is on offer. and there we so many rooms • The evening meal will have an available. Dave thought about putting up entirely new menu. The mulled the tent but he knew not to mess with the girls. It was an awesome night. Tea wine will still be there. was great and sitting around the fire was • Sunday morning will have the the finishing touch. usual breakfast plus a ride The morning dawned and it was time to leaving from the campsite for pack up and head home through BOP members, and any other Wanganui and Taranaki. I would like to congratulate BMW on the venue. rider who wishes to take part. • Please see the advertisement in the newsletter, and please do your best to fill each of the motel units so that attendance is not limited by a lack of space. (In other words, two couples to a two-bedroom unit where possible.) I have had several riders express an interest in training. As the Taupo track is very fully booked for the next several months, a booking will be made for the springtime. Watch this space. BMW Owners Register Newsletter On the 14th April we had a organised ride down to Thomson’s Motorcycle Museum. It was really great to see Toni, Marlene, Graham and Sonja on the ride. First stop was Wanganui for a cuppa and then to Kairanga to the Museum. Well worth the trip. Back to Bulls with the other branches for lunch. Then it was time to hit the road home. By time I got back to Hawera it was time for a drastic measure. (My butt was sore.) I pulled over to the side of the road and sweet talked Dave into riding my Suzuki and I took over his R80. Having never ridden anything other than my learner’s bike and 5 my Suzuki I felt like a king. My plan was to ride it a few kms and then swap. But it grew on me: I loved it. and I got it home in one piece. Valma Rangitikei March Weekend 12 th . & 13 th . Whangamomona. Well of course by now you will have read & seen items from this really great weekend. So I will obviously keep my remarks focussed on the Rangitikei perspective and what I considered most enjoyable. Max & Leslie, Mark & Karen and Carole & Graeme met up with Wellington members in Bulls on the Sat. morning and shared a refreshment break before moving off towards Wanganui to meet with Lance & Heather, Neville & Kay and Brenda & Neil. After a short stop, we all departed for Stratford where Valma (NP area rep.) had organised a very nice lunch in a local sports stadium. After which Neil & Brenda left us to return home to Wanganui. Refuelled, both ourselves and bikes, we left for Whangamomona and duly purchased our passports to the Republic. After a short settling in period and parking the bikes securely in the pub’s backyard Lance led us on an enjoyable Heritage walk around the village. Very interesting. The idea of walking around soon caught on and others started their own tours. Evening soon came and the time came to don our interesting hats and proceed to the charming dining room for a three course meal. Norm employed the waiting staff to judge the hats and 2 Rangitikei heads were prize winners. Graeme came 2nd and Mark 3rd. After an enjoyable meal we retired to the bar to listen to the local band and singer and it wasn’t long before a number were dancing and soon there wasn’t enough floor space, leading to Kay, Heather and Neville dancing on the street. Morning came with a fog enshrouded village and very wet bike seats. After drying mine with a towel I couldn’t stop myself and proceeded to dry them all. Cooked breakfast came and went and we gathered in front of the pub for the obligatory group photo. Home time saw approx half of us all go directly home and the other half (including Max & Leslie, Mark & Karen and Graeme & Carole) proceed eastwards riding through a tunnel Cont. Page 7.... May 2005 CRUISER CL PATERNITY 30 Year Celebration Update Tickets are selling well for the 30 year celebration. Come along and support “Your Organization”. The event is being run for you not the executive or the 30 year members, but for the Register as a whole so please make the effort to attend. For “all” members including those who can’t make the weekend we have struck a 30 year badge. This is in gold and a more magnificent badge (apart from the 20 year one) I have yet to see. It is being made once again by Wayne Painter of Apex Trophies and we have been able to keep the price at $10.00 each. South Island 30 Year Celebration I know people like this! A man in a hot air balloon realized he was lost. He reduced his altitude and spotted a woman below. He descended a bit more and shouted: “Excuse me, can you help me? I promised a friend I would meet him an hour ago, but I don’t know where I am.” The woman below replied, “You’re in a hot air balloon hovering approximately 30 feet above the ground. You’re between 40 and 45 degrees north latitude and between 9 and 60 degrees west longitude.” “You must be in Information Technology,” said the balloonist. BMW Owners Register Newsletter “I am,” replied the woman, “How did you know?” “Well,” answered the balloonist, “everything you told me is technically correct, but I’ve no idea what to make of your information, and the fact is I’m still lost. Frankly, you’ve not been much help at all. If anything, you’ve delayed my trip.” The woman below responded, “You must be in Management.” “I am!” replied the balloonist, “but how did you know?” “Well”, said the woman, “you don’t know where you are or where you’re going. You have risen to where you are, due to a large quantity of hot air. You made a promise, which you’ve no idea how to 6 As per the 20 year Anniversary the Register will subsidize the South Island function on a pro-rata basis. The 20 year dinner took place during a 3 day ride in November 1995. It was organized by the late Chris Davies who was Canterbury area rep at the time. Hopefully Dave will have room in a future magazine to publish Chris’s report on the weekend. Just as an aside. We are calling the Sunday night function “Formal”. We only have a formal function once every 10 years, however if you are coming on a bike or for any other reason just do your best, we don’t mind. Any queries about the event give me a call. Terry Ellis Smith (09) 521 1465. keep, and you expect people beneath you to solve your problems. The fact is you are in exactly the same position you were in before we met, but now, somehow, it’s my fault.” May 2005 ....from page 5 and some 12kms. of good metal on the route to Taumaranui surrounded by scenic bush clad hills and gorges . Lunch on Sunday was at the Old National Park Railway Station. We continued via Raetihi and the Parapara road to Wanganui and home. A grand weekend and thoroughly recommended. What are we going to do next year Norm? Sunday 27 th . The Naff off to Ngamatapouri afternoon ride. They did get to Ngamatapouri with Nixon Navigating .Leonie & Steven turned back at Kai-Iwi as Steven’s recently repaired wrist was giving him a bit of bother .Get well soon mate! That left Brenda & Neil, Max & Leslie, new member Keith and Lance completing the 150 k round trip from Wanganui. The rain fell while they had a cuppa at the Ngamatapouri Hall (where a 21st party was in progress) and most of the ride was in good conditions. The road is sealed and the surface was in good shape. Tuesday 29 th . Tea Meeting. Thai Restaurant, very good indeed, would go again but not immediately as there is time for some variety. In attendance on the night: Ester & Robert, Grant, Leslie & Max, Brenda & Neil, Lance & Heather, Ngaere & Russell and new man Fred Farrington. There was quite a bit of rain about. Graeme & Carole not present as they were bicycling the Otago Rail Trail. Wellington A small group of six people on 4 bikes met at Shell Mana on Sunday, 10 April for our ride to Thomson’s Motorcycle Museum near Palmerston North. Although it wasn’t raining in Wellington, the Hutt people arrived very wet indeed. On the way north we were joined by two more bikes and a further three people. We made good time up SH1 and all successfully negotiated the roadworks at Himatangi. This consisted of about 1km of very heavy gravel over which only Stephen managed to ride at speed, standing on the pegs. As we had time in hand we visited Waireka Honey at the Rongotea Road intersection and had an enjoyable time tasting and buying honey. We emerged from the shop to see several bikes coming from the north and turning into Rongotea Road. It was Lance’s group and they were at the museum when we arrived. The Palmerston North BMW Owners Register Newsletter contingent arrived a little after us, and the top of the South Island, so it was later again Valma and several others good to see them come along. from New Plymouth also joined us. We headed of in the cold, out and over We spent a good time looking at all the Spooner’s Range, through the valleys machines and motorcycle memorabilia and to the Hope Saddle. Going over the on display, with just about every make Hope Saddle there was snow on the side represented, including a 1960s R27 and of the road. The road was still damp in an Isetta. Peter, the owner, admitted to places but the sun was now shining. being a Harley man, and they were there in all shapes, sizes and ages, but not of We carried on down the State highway recent manufacture. He wheeled his to Murchison where we stopped for “riding” machine outside, a 1944 WLC coffee and of course a chat. From there outfit, which he had taken to the States we all carried on up the north side of the for the Harley Centennial, and started it Matakitaki valley and over the Maruia for us. Painted in non standard colours Saddle. This starts of as tar seal then of red and cream, it looked a picture, and goes to gravel then goes to a track. A we were assured that the sidecar with good ride with the entire group going its white sheepskin was very over, although a R1200 and a R1150 did comfortable. have a little lie down in a small patch of soft sand. No damage to bikes or riders. We all eventually tore ourselves away from the museum and headed to Bulls This road comes out on the Shenandoah and the café by the bridge. road at a place called frog flat. Here we regrouped, some photos were taken, and on we went south to Springs Junction. Coming into Springs Junction we were riding in a light snow shower. The snow on the hills down there was at a fairly low level. Some 20 or so BMWs in a variety of models, made an impressive sight in the café car park. Their riders and pillions numbered around 30 people, which we all decided was the biggest crowd for a Sunday run in a long time. From there we carried on over the Rahu Saddle to Reefton. Here we stopped for lunch and coffee. Here the group split up as some members were going further south for a holiday. The remainder of the group headed of north, taking in a back road (Brown Creek Road) before Inangahua. This road, had recently been tar sealed ands brings you out in the town of Inangahua. We carried on north following the Buller Gorge to Murchison for another drink and to discuss were to go, from there. After an enjoyable lunch, including repartee from the barista, we all headed for home. It was great to see so many of our friends from Taranaki, Wanganui and Manawatu on a Wellington ride. Norman and Marie The main group headed out of Murchison and through the Braeburn Nelson track. This runs through Dairy farms and native bush, coming out at Lake 24th April. We met at 9.00am at Rotoroa. From there we went out along the Railway Hotel car park, Richmond. the Gowan Valley and back onto the The morning had started with a very cold main Highway. Heading north for rain, but the weather was now clearing home; back over the Hope Saddle and the sun trying to come through. It (Snow melted), Spooner’s and home. was still pretty cold. On the hills around the area was fresh snow. In all a long very enjoyable ride, enjoyed by all. In all 13 bikes and 16 people headed out for the ride. This included 10 GS’s, Otago/Southland ranging from a Dakar to R80’s, R100’s, an R 1100, an R1150 and R1200’s. It The weekend of 9/10 April saw the longwas good to see so many GS’s in on awaited Deep South Beemers Ride to group. This included 4 representatives Wanaka. As in the past, we all left from from Thunderbikes. Thunderbikes is the different departure points, and the first only authorised BMW service agent in Cont. Page 9.... 7 May 2005 30th. BMWOR anniversary CELEBRATIONS WEEKEND PROGRAMME Saturday 4 June. 2pm - 5pm. Sponsored by: Experience BMW Motorcycles, cnr Davis Crescent & Carlton Gore Road, Newmarket. Meet your billet or just come along for a get together, drinks and snacks or just admire the new bikes. Sunday 5 June. Ride to Orere Point to re-enact the first register ride 30 years ago. Meet at Experience BMW Motorcycles for breakfast 7.30am. Sponsored by Experience BMW Motorcycles. Leave @ 9am SHARP with police escort to Orere Point. Leave Orere Point for lunch at Long Cabin Clevedon. Your cost. Tiki tour back to Auckland at your own pace. * Round trip approximately 200kms * Please register for breakfast by Thursday 2 June @ Experience 529 1120. BMW Motorcycles. Phone 09 Sunday 5 June. 7 pm Formal Function at BMW (NZ) Mt. Wellington Dancing, drinking and eating. Please register by Thursday 2 June. 7.00pm Champagne cocktail hour. 8.00pm Brief speeches and presentation of 30 year pins and certificates. 8.30 – Midnight. Buffet and dancing to the Nairobi Quintet. (Recognized as one of the best jazz and blues bands in New Zealand.) Tickets: $40 each. Badges: $10 each. Note: Entry to the formal function on Sunday night is by pre-paid tickets only. Ticket price includes all food and drink. * Sunday night is formal. We realize members will be riding to Auckland, so just do your best. Motels 10 minute walk from Newmarket. Siesta Motel, 70 Great South Rd, Newmarket. 0800 743 782. $89 - $109 per night. Alpers Motor Lodge. 16 Alpers Ave Newmarket 0800 160 880 $99 -$120 per night. Great South Rd Motor Lodge, 112 Great South Rd, N/market. 0508 899 699. $90 - $105 night Double Tree Motor Lodge, 80 Great South Rd. Newmarket. 09 522 2011. $89 - $140 per night. Based on numbers the club will put on a mini van for out of town folks from the above locations. You will have to register with the secretary for a ride to the Sunday Night function by Thursday 2 June. BMW Owners Register Newsletter 8 May 2005 30th. ANNIVERSARY FORMAL FUNCTION BOOKING FORM Time: 7.00 p.m. Place:BMW (NZ) Ltd. Mt. Wellington. Name: ___________________ Name: ___________________ Membership No.:__________ Membership No.:__________ Address:__________________ __________________ Please mail ___ Plus ___ Contact Phone No:_________ ________________ tickets @ $40 each: badges @ $10 each: _______ Total: $ Please enclose cheque for the total amount and mail to: The Secretary, BMWOR P.O. Box 109-245, Newmarket. Auckland. 1001 Note: Tickets are limited to current BMWOR members and their partners and invited guests only. .......From page 7 arrivals met up with each other on the main street of Wanaka late on the Saturday afternoon. We found a pleasant café and enjoyed the opportunity to sit in the sun and catch up on the latest news. Later, 16 of us in total met at the much-celebrated “Muzza’s” bar and café, and settled in for an evening of good food, drink, and conversation. The next morning several of us met for breakfast at a café on the lakefront, before heading off home. The expected numbers were well down on what we had hoped for, but I guess autumn is a very busy time for many people and there were several other motorcycle rides and rallies which competed with us for participants. At least there was a good “spread” of riders, with 4 coming from Christchurch, 6 from Otago, and 6 from Invercargill. The weather was very settled, but not particularly warm, and everyone seemed to enjoy the excuse to ride the wonderful roads of Central Otago amidst the first “colours” of autumn. Barry Of golf, Bob Hope once said.... “I asked my good friend, Arnold Palmer how I could improve my game, he advised me to Cheat!” BMW Owners Register Newsletter HOT AUGUST NIGHT 2005 Bay of Plenty BMWOR invites you to the warm and sunny BOP. The Oracle has spoken; the weather will be good. Venue: Omokoroa Tourist Park and Hot Pools 165 Omokoroa Road Telephone 07-548 0857 Date: Saturday, 20 August 2005 Programme: On Saturday afternoon there will be a demo bike for your use, plus a handson technical session of interest to all bikers. In the late afternoon, there will be a very Hot Happy Hour, guaranteed to please all gourmets (all drinks and eats will be provided). To get the most from the afternoon, it is suggested that you arrive by 15h00 to allow time to settle and to prepare for the activities. A tasty dinner will be provided on the Saturday evening, this year with an entirely new menu. Please remember to bring your own drinks to dinner. New for this year will be heating in the dining area – no more cold feet. On the Sunday morning there will be ingredients to cook your own breakfast. Sunday morning will include an optional short ride over roads that only the locals know. All this for only $30 per head. To save the BMWOR treasurer a huge headache, please send your cheque to: Clive Dominy 3, Eighteenth Avenue Tauranga A receipt will be forwarded by return post – a self-addressed envelope would be appreciated. Please book your accommodation directly with Omokoroa Tourist Park – first come – first served. And please make every attempt to fill as many beds in each unit so that the maximum number of club members can attend the night. The campground owner would love it if you did choose to stay for both the Friday and Saturday night, but this is your choice. 9 May 2005 RUBBER BOOT LEAK The appearance of black oil outside the rubber boot on the driveshaft of the R 1150RT was a little unsettling. Oil made its way to the support bracket, and then to the side of the tyre. The weather was very hot and oil, as we all know, thins and spreads as it heats. And it was a long way from Te Araroa to Wanganui. Michael of Motorad, [Wellington] when he heard of the seepage, muttered an Anglo Saxon expletive, and said it was most likely the seal. As I had a date to make with The Good (Bike) Doctor about routine servicing and a tyre, it was only days before The Bike, Michael, and I were standing on the pavement outside Motorad, looking at the rubber bellows and looking for a leak. This was not the time for jokes about Triumphs of old, but I did wonder where the oil was if no more bothered to ooze out. It was also strange that the oil seeped from the higher end of the bellows. When I asked Michael about this apparent phenomenon of oil running uphill, he grinned. “Watch this,” he said as he flicked off the plastic cable tie with his deft left thumb. He then pulled the large end of the bellows off and oil dribbled out in plentiful amounts. The boot had captured the escaping oil. It had leaked out of the weakest point, which happened to be at the “high” end. And the appearance of oil confirmed Michael’s over-the-phone diagnosis of the pinion seal taking a vacation before it had done the job. AROUND THE SOUTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND PART TWO Day Five: A day trip to Pelorus Bridge via the Mangatapu Track and back to Nelson (100 kms). After a day’s R & R it’s time for some more riding: Just a day trip this time. It’s raining a little as we set off and I am more than a little apprehensive. We make our way through the main street of Nelson, pass the cathedral and look for the road which will take us up the Mitai Valley. The rain gets heavier and my adrenaline increases. I have been over this track in BMW Owners Register Newsletter a 4wd but it was dry and I’m not sure how we are going to get on in the wet. Ali has only had his foot out of plaster for a week after breaking his ankle in 3 places during a Christmas off road ride and can until now, barely put any weight on it. We reach the top of the Mitai Valley and I find the sign indicating the way to the Mangatapu Track. There are clear warnings that it is 4wd only. My adventure bike should be okay but I’m not so sure about Ali’s XJ. I console myself that his 10 Michael has had some experience of this problem, and was prepared in every way to make it right. But I’ve been thinking, as you do as you drift along the highway. I wonder if anyone checks what is going on inside that rubber bellows. Without that tell tale sign of oil I would never have thought of it. Over to you. Lance Nixon 2310 20 years of enduro riding will see him through and we push on up the increasingly steep and slippery track. We are in the beautiful native Beech forest now but I am concentrating on the rivulets of water running down the track. The big single is starting to become a bit of a handful in the increasingly rough conditions. I just make it up one steep hill only to find that it is still going up even more steeply. I stop where I can to dry my glasses and get a better view of the trouble ahead when there is a thunderous roar and the XJ slithers and bounces past. “Boy, that was close, he nearly hit me!” Ali is giving it all it has got and fighting hard to stay on. It’s a wonderful sight but I don’t have my video camera. There is loose shale over the rock track. He hits something that grips and the XJ dives sideways. Ali knows that it is all over for him so graciously dives over the bars and down the bank. He could have tried to control it by putting his foot down but the pain in his ankle persuaded him not to try. I inch my bike back down the hill till I can find somewhere where it won’t take off on the stand, and scramble up to give some help. We decide that it is better if Ali rides the bike up (I certainly wasn’t offering!) and I will push. I get the bike upright, drag May 2005 him up the bank and help him on his mount. I push and sweat, and sweat some more, I get sprayed with dirt and mud and rocks. Whose crazy idea was this trip? We finally make it and I wonder what lies ahead. I go back for my bike. My prayers have been answered and I make it uneventfully to the top. Fortunately this turns out to be the last hill and it is much easier going now. We cross the summit but can’t see much through the rain. We stop at the memorial cairn and read the inscriptions to those who had been murdered there long ago. It’s raining even more heavily by the time we arrive at Pelorus Bridge. We find some shelter and have another cup of tea. The rain eases and we make our way back to Nelson on SH 6. Day six: Nelson to Greymouth (330 kms). We leave Nelson heading SW through the suburbs of Stoke and Richmond following HW 6. Soon we are into the Golden Downs Forest, the gentle curves in the road making for pleasant riding. We have a long way to go today so we hasten on through Motupiko, Kawatiri to Murchison. We stop here to learn a little about the great earthquake that devastated the town in 1929. Scars on the hillside caused by landslides can still be seen. From here the road turns due west and we head for the coast. Great forests abound in these regions. The sun is still shining but we don’t know for how long. The West Coast averages 25 mm (1 inch) of rain for every day of the year but we hope that the next few days will be different. We follow the Buller River to the junction just south of Westport but decide that time constraints mean we must head south and visit Westport some other time. Greymouth is our destination but the famous Punakaiki blow hole will hold our attention for a while. It is a wonderful trip down the coast. The sea is wild, seagulls fill the sky and the smells are altogether different. Perhaps it is because of the many holidays I had at the seaside as a child that a new song is welling in my throat. I start to sing and a terrible noise reverberates around inside my helmet. Who cares, the sun is still shining and all is well with the world. I am loving this but I know that my concentration is starting to lapse, the sights, the sounds and the smells are taking over. We stop at Punakaiki and marvel with other travellers we meet. Greymouth is less than 50 kms away and we have to find somewhere to stay for the night. We call on friends and get invited for another cup BMW Owners Register Newsletter of tea. Then suddenly, without warning, the skies open and water comes down like I have never seen before. I worry about my pyjamas in the saddle bags and our host gets the message and moves his car forward in the garage so our bikes are out of the storm. We had planned to cruise on down the coast a bit and look for somewhere to put up the tent, but this weather convinces me that not even mad dogs would step outside let alone try to ride a bike. I couldn’t even begin to comprehend putting up a tent. Graciously our hosts ask if we would like to sleep in the lounge for the night and we have no hesitation in accepting. We go to bed and listen to the thunderous crash of the rain on the roof. I don’t think that I have ever seen rain as heavy as this. Well, since we have had 75-100 mm of rain overnight surely we can’t get anymore tomorrow. I sleep fitfully dreading being put out tomorrow morning in this storm. Whose idea was this trip? Day Seven: Greymouth to Bruce Bay (380 kms). To my amazement the next morning reveals that the rain has stopped and the sun is trying to make an appearance. We make our farewells and slowly cruise through the town. Our first stop is Shanty Town just a few minutes down the road. The mist is lying low around the fern covered hills. It is a beautiful sight. The rain yesterday has painted a completely new picture for us to enjoy. Shanty Town comes into sight and we look for some cover for the bikes as we have felt a few spits of rain. An old hay barn beckons, so cross country a bit and find good shelter. The town consists of a collection of old buildings from the gold mining 11 days. All are beautifully restored and give a good picture of life back in the 1860’s. We stroll through the town, and admire the relics in the pub, a TV set is showing a replay of the All Black’s game from the previous night, we can resist anything but temptation and All Black games so we stay too long. We ride the train into the bush and watch the tourists pan for their little bit of gold. We talk with the guy that runs this part of the town. The gold has been mined from the hills and a little put into each pan. This guy is NZ’s gold panning champion and is soon off to pit his skills against the best that the Aussies can offer. It’s back to the bikes and the barn offers a great place to brew yet another cup of tea. The ride south is exhilarating. Sea mist lies all along the coast. We don’t stop now as it is still 250 kms to Franz Joseph glacier and we want to at least get that far. The long NZ summer nights are in our favour and we know that it won’t be dark till 10 pm. The sun has finally broken through and we are quite warm on the ride south. We park our bikes at Franz Joseph Glacier and strip off some gear. We are told that it is 30 min walk to the glacier so we decide to risk leaving coats and boots next to the bikes. There are many tourists around so we hope that all will still be there when we return. It is a lovely walk in the sun and we chat to people from far off countries. They admire our courage at riding motorbikes, while we wonder why they don’t. Our gear is all still where we left it when we get back so it is off to Fox Glacier just 25 kms further on. We have a quick trip in there because we want to see Lake Matheson just 10 minutes down the beach road from Fox. Although it is 6 pm the car park is nearly full. It looks as if it is going to May 2005 take us an hour to walk around the lake so we hurry off. The lake is beautiful and the late afternoon sun strikes us through gaps in the bush that surrounds the lake. The track is board-walked in many places so the going is easy. We get half way around to where Lake Matheson’s famous reflections can be seen. There is no wind. Mt. Tasman towering high above is perfectly reflected. We are still a little worried about all our gear strewn around the bikes so we make good time back. Well at least the tourists are honest in NZ; everything is still in the heap we left it in. It’s time to eat so we empty everything out on the rough sawn table in the car-park and have yet another cup of tea. It is 9 pm before we finish and tourists are still arriving. We look at the map and decide against continuing on down the road we have come in on to Lake Matheson. It’s not too far to Gillespie’s Beach but the road is gravel and we don’t know whether we would find a good spot to camp. We decide to push on to Bruce Bay 46 kms down the SH where the road hits the sea again. We don’t waste much time in the fading light. At Bruce Bay the sea is pounding in and we look forward to the thought of going to sleep with the sound of the sea crashing in our ears. We find a flat area and put the inner part of the tent up. No sooner had we started than we began to be bitten by sand-flies and their bigger cousins, mosquitoes. I have heard that it is only females that bite. That’s probably a story made up by some guy who came off second best in an encounter with one of the opposite sex. These can’t all be females, there are too many of them. They have got teeth an inch long. Not wanting to share the night with them we leave the tent firmly zipped up till we have cooked more baked beans, then quickly open the zip a little, throw our gear and dive in after it. Two or three make it through the doorway with us but we soon fix them. The pounding of the surf sends us into noddy land. Day Eight: Bruce Bay to Lake Wanaka (315 kms including a side trip of 100 kms). We wander the drift wood strewn beach early the next morning. The sea mist is still hanging low. I look out to sea knowing that somewhere out there lies Australia and I wonder if I will ever get to see its rocky shores. We cook breakfast on the beach and the cup of tea has black things floating in it. I am not sure whether they are tea leaves or drowned sand flies. It tastes okay. It’s only 30 kms to Haast and more fuel. From Jackson BMW Owners Register Newsletter Bay we travel through native forest that hugs and overhangs the road. It’s not raining but deep ditches are running with water. I make another mental note not to end up in one of them. It is beautiful, it’s spectacularly beautiful and I know why the tourists flock to this part of the country. But it is too early for them; they will still be packing their bags back at the glaciers. We decide to take the side trip to Jackson Bay. It’s about 50 kms each way but we have seen great pictures so must do it. Sea mist rolls in on our way down and we have to hunt for the wet weather gear again. But that soon stops and the sun breaks through as we ride into the picturesque town. We explore (it only takes 5 min!) and then ride our bikes out onto the wharf. A camper van pulls up and a fisherman comes to try his luck. His reel soon screams and a look of joy crosses his face. He finally gets his catch to the wharf and discovers that it is an eel. I hope that it is not an electric one and decide that it is time to leave him too it. The trip back to Haast passes quickly. We refuel and head for the hills. The Haast Pass follows the rough and tumbling Haast River. It looks grey, no doubt because of the snow melt it contains. It is big and braided. It is a wonderful ride up the pass, and I am glad that during the past year the road was finally completely sealed. We catch a few cars and blast past as we make our way through the windy steep hills. Ali is leading and suddenly waves frantically and pulls over. I stop along side and ask what is wrong. “Did you see that thing back there?” he asks. “Do you mean the cable-way?” I reply. It turns out that he hasn’t seen one before. We ride back and he listens in amazement as I tell him that I worked in hydrology for 10 years and have ridden hundreds of these. I explain how it all works although the telemetry is all new to me. I ask him to check the padlock to see whether they are still using RKD’7s. He finds that stamped on the bottom and wonders who would be bothered remembering such things. We soon come to a notice indicating that there is a waterfall to be seen up ahead. We park next to a CBR and follow the track the 5 min to view. We meet a couple decked out just like us. He is very excited and tells us that he nearly came off on a bend just 5 min back “Oil all over the road; we slid and I feared that we would plunge over into the river, but I got it back just in time!” We make a mental note and button the speed back for at least the next 5 minutes. We soon found his “oil”. A waterfall was cascading down right 12 onto the road and it was this that they hit. That danger passed, we relax and enjoy the mountain pass. A black Subaru comes into view and as soon as he sees two head lights in his mirrors he goes for another gear. All my senses warn me of danger. Ali sticks behind as this guy tries to wring the last ounce of muscle out of his machine. I’m starting to get a little impatient and have to keep talking to myself. Ali has had enough and gives him both barrels. I hear the XJ burst into life and decide to follow. The guy swings out to dissuade Ali from passing but he is too late the XJ is gone. I see a huge gap open up on the inside of the car and for one awful moment consider taking him on the wrong side. Thirty years ago I wouldn’t have hesitated but I’m older and just a little wiser now. Then just as quickly, I envisage Ali cutting back in and taking me out as I rocket through on the inside. Two way radios would be great here. So I change my mind and follow on the outside. I change up a gear as I pass to show him that I still have bags of power left. We cross the pass and come down the other side into the Makarora Valley. It is beautiful and the sun is shining brightly again. I make a mental note to come back and camp here some time. Soon after the tiny settlement of Makarora we meet the top end of Lake Wanaka. It’s an exhilarating ride around the lake. The bends are all marked at 65-75 kph but we are rocketing through at +25 with a very strong NW wind on our backs. I see the sign that says “Beware of falling rocks” but not today, this ride is just too much fun to be looking for rocks. I’ll just have to depend on my reaction time should we encounter any. We don’t, but I soon get an awful fright when something pretty big whacks into my left footrest. I grab for the anchors expecting sometime far more terrible is about to happen. I stop and survey the damage. Everything appears to be okay, I look behind and in a cloud of feathers I see something flapping its last on the road. Just a quail (small bird) but it felt the size of a dog. I’m glad we didn’t meet any rocks on the road. The great ride continues down the side of Lake Hawea and soon we are in Wanaka. We find a backpackers where we can store the bikes in a shed and check out the town. It is a really beautiful evening, with the now gentle warm breeze blowing in off the lake. Although it’s 9 pm the temperature is still 30 C (65F). Everyone is in party mode and the clubs and pubs are full. One more mountain pass tomorrow and we are home so we head back to the lodge and chat to the May 2005 overseas guests. They are as delighted with Wanaka as we are. None of them have a bad thing to say about NZ, except that their time is running out and they must soon go home to work. We agree that that is enough to make anyone depressed. Day nine: Wanaka to Gore (220 kms) and for me Dunedin (370 kms). The thought of being home today takes over and even Ali doesn’t take too much encouraging to get up. We leave at 9 am and head for Cromwell 55 kms away. We head into the township for we have to find our way through to the road to Bannockburn. We refuel as it will be a while before we can do so again. Bannockburn is an old gold mining settlement and well worth exploring. But I come with a school camp here each year and have seen it all so we don’t stop today. The sealed road winds up the valley till the road forks. We take the right turn and look for the Nevis turn off. This road is new to me so I am a little apprehensive. Still if Ali reckons he can get the XJ through I should be okay with my extra clearance. We follow the signs and start up a road that can be better described as a track. It is gravel and very windy, second and third gear stuff. And it just keeps going up and up. Hairpin bends demand caution and I am determined to make it home alive. It’s about 15 kms from Bannockburn to the Nevis saddle. We stop and admire the view down the valley where we will soon be passing. The hills are steep on both sides and I can see little streams flowing across the road. Ali assures me that I will be okay. We soon pass the two big sheep stations that farm this area. The flats on either side of the river have feed for stock but after that it looks pretty meagre. Tough country in here in winter and with the pass snow-bound for parts of the winter you wouldn’t want to run out of supplies. We make our way down the valley and the road isn’t too bad. It is lunch time and we spy an old stone cottage. It is really hot so we strip off our gear and lie in the long grass. A small stream flows past. I have never seen such crystal clear water before. The tussocks sparkle in the sun and I make another mental note to come back here sometime. The beauty of this place is challenged by the call of home so we are off again. Gold tailings can be seen left from former days. They must have been tough to live in this place in winter. We come to our first stream crossing. I have plenty of clearance and it’s no problem. Soon there are more but it is the last one that really catches my eye. I see a hub cap off a car that someone has lost mid stream. It appears about 60 cm (2 feet) deep and quite swift although only 8 metres wide. Ali goes first and the XJ dances all over the place as it fights against the current and the rocks. He emerges okay and now it’s my turn. I contemplate taking off the saddle bags and carrying them over first but the thought of wet feet puts me off. I’ll give it a go. The XT has bags of clearance and I worry for nothing. Another mountain range to cross and this one is as steep as the last. But it’s all down hill now and I must check my speed or I’ll wipe out on one of those hairpin corners. Ali stops and shows me where an old ski lodge used to be. I thought we must be quite high. But this is mid summer and there is no snow to be seen today. We make it off the Nevis Pass at Garston and we haven’t seen another vehicle all day. HW 6 takes us to Lumsden where we stop for a bun and cuppa. Ali’s niece owns it so we chin wag for a bit. Lumsden to Gore is a good road with long straights GUIDE FOR SUBMISSIONS TO NEWSLETTER Submissions to the magazine are always very welcome in any format; e-mail attachment, letter, even script etc. We have the facilities to convert anything to the Newsletter format. Indeed, we welcome members who would handwrite an article: And it has happened! This is what we convert everything to, that we receive. (Then spellcheck) : Main Text: Arial font. Size 10. Principal Heading: Arial font. Size 14. Bold and underlined. Margin: Left and right double justified. Images, Photos and drawings need to be sent (electroniclly) as attachments. BMW Owners Register Newsletter 13 so I can relax a little after the mountain section. But it’s now very very hot. The nor-wester that we met in Wanaka is now blowing strongly and the temperature is well over 30. We come to road works and are stopped. The temperature with all our gear on must be over 40 now and I wonder how long I can last. Finally we get a green light, oh the joy of some slightly cooler temps. Gore is home for Ali but I must now complete the last 150 kms back to Dunedin. I consider staying the night but the thought of my own bed is too strong. I have my last cup of tea and set sail for home. It’s been a great trip. We agree to do it again, but with our wives next time. Some notes: 1. Our trip was in late February. The gravelled mountain passes described are subject to snow in winter and should not be attempted outside the months of November to April unless you have local knowledge. They are also subject to slipping and flooding after heavy rain. Information on the Rainbow Valley (100 kms) road can be obtained by ringing Rainbow Valley Station or from the Information Centre in Hanmer. This road is being improved and some cars are even starting to venture through. 2. Backpacker accommodation can be found even in small towns and cost is around NZ$15-20 per night. You will meet many other overseas travellers. Accommodation is basic but good. Ask if there is a lockable shed for your bike. 3. My XT had a fuel range of only 200 kms + reserve but fuel is readily available even in outlying areas (though they may not be open at night.) There is no fuel for the 100 kms of the Rainbow Valley. Many push bikers use this route. As advertised in the Tour Guide, we are happy for members to stay with us if contemplating coming to Auckland for the 30th Anniversary celebrations. We have a spare room and a rumpus space plus can offer garaging for the bike. We’re about 10 minutes from BMW HQ and the same from Experience in Newmarket. Feel free to contact us: Wendy and Martyn Freer (09) 634 6862 Wendy Slatter wendy_martyn@hotmail.com May 2005 RAG RALLY: 2005 This event was different from other Rag Rallies: New Venue. While it proved popular with some, it was not popular with others. In the past Rallies were successfully held just out of Ohakune, under “canvas”. As the venue is now unavailable, a new place “just around the corner” was booked. The Taylor Memorial Lodge at Pokaka. Pokaka is very small, if you don’t see the sign post on the main highway, you will miss it. The rally was attended by some 25 people, and an informal vote amongst those present was to continue with this venue. Anyway, here are some photos of the day. Dave Morris. (Photos, except where stated.) 2. 1. 3. Clockwise from top: 1. Bikes parked up for the night. 2. The signpost traveling South. 3. Derelect Supply store. 4. Diehards prefer camping. 5. The “relax” after the ride. 6. GS meets White butterfly. 4. 6. 5. Photo: M. Gibbons BMW Owners Register Newsletter 14 May 2005 Them’s the brakes I have seen quite a lot of writing lately especially in the Australian motorcycle press about the brakes on newer BMW motorbikes. There are claims and counter claims about the system, its design and indeed the need for such ground breaking (‘scuse the pun) technology. A person who has a load of experience on motorcycles, a hard bitten rider of many tracks, and who wears warts on the knees of his one piece leathers knows what a motorcycle can do at the extreme edge. He has probably fallen off (other people’s) bikes a few times, so knows where traction loses out to gravity and about the laws of physics. Who better to judge the efficacy of a new and technologically advanced system? If comment and journalism are the prime motivation, then our test pilot with keyboard skills is just the ticket. Not everyone is a test pilot, however. Indeed the majority of us ordinary persons ride well inside the capability of the machine we own and shine. We have not got what it takes to drag knees around diesel soaked roundabouts. We do have a burning desire to think that we could if we had to, and the proximity of knee to tarmac is often directly proportionate to the amount of Merlot left in the glass. The criticism by the “expert” is not necessarily a reflection of the experience of the “ordinary user”. It is not hard to argue a case to “leave it to me as I know exactly what I am doing”, when it comes to stopping a heavy touring motorcycle ridden by the expert. An expert I am not! First of all, there are people who design and develop new technology all the time. In the case of BMW techo’s, they gave us unique front suspension and unique rear suspension. They also gave us a braking system that no one else has. results in quality retardation of the bike. That’s three out three and we have not The quality is better than I could manage finished counting. especially under stress. The skill is acquired in a couple of days, and the odd When I first tried a BMMW motorcycle lapse (riding like the old days) is a quick the helpful salesperson said that I was refresher course not to go around the block. Go somewhere, anywhere, he said, as the The brakes have a brain that has BMW experience grows with time. And to get itself sorted before the bike goes that was exactly what happened. on its way. It’s an easy skill to acquire in When I bought a new DVD/video less than a week. Just turn the key on recorder, I was not able to “drive” it while putting on gloves. In that time the without reference to the instructions. flashing light has settled into its steady When experts and the ordinary user pulse. Then it’s business as usual. The approach a new BMW with its unique second skill is to park the bike on the braking system, there is the same need level so the process is easy. The third to learn to “drive” that braking system. skill, if the park is sloped, is to set up the They are not the same as the last ‘bike bike to not move (put it into gear: how we rode, and so there is a need for some hard is that?) and let the flashing light new skills. settle to its slower pulse. Then it’s business as usual. Here are some reflections gathered in There is an ABS capability. It is 33,000 k on a 2003 R1150RT with all the an unusual feeling having the brake do braking gizmos: its “push me pull you” act. This is an acquired feeling as the first reaction to The brakes are less effective with the pulsed braking effect can be to let the key turn off … so squeeze harder. go the brake lever and then to grab it That is an acquired skill that takes about again. The skill with ABS lies in trying it 2 days to perfect. out on a straight dry road surface. I tried it at the BRONZ Training day and that The brakes really do work on the was after 30,000k of ownership! Surprise road! So squeeze gently. That is a skill (on the road) favours the prepared mind. that takes about 3 weeks to perfect, and needs careful awareness at low speed. So, being quite prepared to accept the So stop they do!!!! electronic wisdom of the BMW boffins, I am not critical of the braking capability The brakes work out a suitable of the R1150RT. Neither am I a knee braking ratio between front and back down whiz kid. I know that to rely on it to quicker than I can. So I am getting a push the limit is a silly notion, but when balanced braking effect. The skill is in pull turns to stop, I know that the machine remembering that the foot brake will do me more favours than any other activates the front brake too. That really bike. What is wrong with being the only brings the bike to a halt in a very short manufacturer with such innovation? distance. It takes about 3 days to acquire Someone has to show the world the that skill leading technological edge, and in this case it’s BMW … again! The brakes are linked and so activating either lever or pedal or both Lance Nixon 1550 BMW Designations 30 year Recipients Owing to the lack of records from “long ago” would anyone, life member or otherwise, who joined the register in 1975 please phone Terry Ellis-Smith 09 521 1465 after hours or 027 498 2970. BMW Owners Register Newsletter Designation S R RS RT LT GT GS ST CS 15 Meaning Translation Sport Roadster Reisesport Reisetourer Luxustourer Grand Tourism Gelandesport Sporttourer Scarver Sport Roadster Racing Sport Racing Tourer Luxuary Tourer Grand Tourer Off Road Sport Sport Tourer “Scarver” May 2005 WELLINGTON-RANGITIKEI-TARANAKI RIDE TO THOMPSON’S MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM Members from these three branches converged on the wee Rongotea location (close to Palmerston North) to inspect the collection of bikes in this private museum. The collection is owned by Graeme Thompson who took over from his father when he died about 3 years ago. The collection has about 109 bikes – 38 of which are Harley Davidsons. One BMW is on display; a 1964 R27 (Single cylinder 350cc) which came out of Sydney. There are a number of rare and unusual bikes including a Militiaire. This has 4 in line engine and outrigger wheels for reverse gear. Most of the bikes are original condition. The claim held that they are worth more than being restored. A view that is a bone of contention in the vintage vehicle circles, and draws side to debate on the merits of restoration or preservation. 5. 1. Clockwise, from top to bottom:(1) Graeme’s (Left) pride and joy, a 1944 750cc H/D. with side car. This has been over to the USA on a rally. (2) 1964 AJS 350cc Ex NZ Army. (3) Interior of museum (4) BMW R27. (5) Some of the club member’s bikes outside in the driveway. 4. 3. BMW Owners Register Newsletter 2. 16 May 2005 BMW Owners Register Newsletter 17 May 2005 Experience Motorcycles invites you to : Henry’s Wicked Waitomo Weekend “Goodies and Baddies Night” Which one are You ??? Saturday, 9 July 2005 The Caves Motor Inn, State Highway 3 Cost - $80.00 per person Includes, Dinner, Bed, Continental Breakfast, and a “ Good BAD” night out!! Bookings to: Henry Plowright 4/24 Irirangi Road One Tree Hill Auckland Cell: 021 320 650 Phone: 09 622 0212 Entertainment – by the baddest of them all, ”Pauly Baddy T” Be quick – first in, best room BMW Owners Register Newsletter 18 May 2005 RENEWAL due 1st July FOR MEMBERSHIP / ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP (delete one) This form is not to be used for a new application. Contact the Membership Secretary if New Member application forms are required. Note: Both members and partners names may be entered if both actively participate in Register activities. Participating partner is to pay 10% of the annual subscription. 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BMW Model:______________ Year:____________ Reg. No:______________ Engine No:___________________ 2. BMW Model:______________ Year:____________ Reg. No:______________ Engine No:___________________ 3. BMW Model:______________ Year:_____________ Reg. No:______________ Engine No:___________________ Tour Guide: An annual Tour Guide, listing services members can provide, is issued to Register members. If you are able to offer any services - please indicate by ticking the appropriate line. I/We have a trailer and can collect a broken down bike from (enter distance in km)............... k_________ I/We have a workshop / tools for emergency repairs.............................................................. ws Any club member is welcome to drop in for a coffee & chat (phone first).............................. cc I/We have camping space....................................................................................................... cs I/We have sheltered bed roll space......................................................................................... bs I/We have a spare room........................................................................................................... sr I/We are unable to offer any of the above................................................................................. nil Date:_______________ Signed:_____________________________ OFFICE DATA Subscription: $35 per annum + $3.50 for partner Overseas NZ $50 + $5 partner (airmail) Rec’d: ______________ Amt: $ ______________ Please attach cheque and post renewal to: Posted:______________ The Treasurer Details: ______________ BMWOR of NZ Inc P O Bow 109-245, Newmarket AUCKLAND, NZ Please allow 3-4 weeks to process. If details are the same for your bike(s), put “Same” BMW Owners Register Newsletter 19 May 2005 Intercoms: The continuing story..... In response to clarify some quotes made by Tom Percy. The article Tom Percy referred to was not supposed to be a comprehensive review of all the motorcycle intercom systems currently available. It was an article Steven Cooper submitted detailing HIS experience only. Tom Percy also has many facts wrong regarding the Baehr Systems. The Basic System cost only $627-00 complete with two headsets. I don’t know where you got the hefty $1100-00 from that you stated. Baehr have several models through the range to suit the needs of individual riders, as most other brands have only one model to offer. The top of the range Baehr system can take up to 5 devices at one time, all with individual priorities, with 13 fine tuning ports, which no other intercom on the market can do, or even come close to, so it is obvious, more features more the cost, so you would need to compare apples for apples before comparing the cost of another product. All Baehr models (except Sono) can have mobile phones connected to them, this is nothing new in the communication world, as the auto answer is a phone function feature, not an intercom as most people think. We have installed intercoms in Microlites this is not a challenge for a Baehr system, as most brands would probably cope, as a microlite would even struggle to achieve open road speed limits compared to a motorcycle that can exceed speeds over 200 kph with oncoming traffic such as buses, trucks, and road noise would be a far greater test or challenge for quality of sound. Good time to highlight some of baehr’s unique features and FAQ Baehr is a German High Tec handmade system that has its own unique electronic active mic that is designed and works on a frequency that does not recognise wind noise, this is unique to the Baehr systems only. The Basic model range does not have a VOX feature or side tones, it is continuously on, and never will you hear wind noise, even with the mic exposed to the wind, because of its unique microphone setup. This is why other systems need a VOX to be able to shut off the mic so no wind noise will be heard or transmitted. The Basic model is only 160 kms rated and yet it was officially used and tested over 300 kmph used on a racing Suzuki Hiabusa towing an inline skater for a world record attempt. (Baehr rated 160 kms is normal talking not shouting) Check this out it’s very interesting: http://challengermotors.co.nz/Web%20Pages/world_record_attempt_inline_skat.htm All other models in the baehr range have VOX this type again is unique to baehr as the VOX never shuts of completely it rests at a 2nd level monitoring wind noise and auto adjusting levels in the system continuously, so with this set up when you talk the VOX is instant with no delay or shortened words. Baehr is being used in and on Microlites, race tracks, police bikes, ambulance bikes, all types of road bikes, jet racing boats and ski boats, with outstanding results and testimonials from our individual users of the Baehr products. Check our “RIDERS COMMENTS” page (All baehr systems are waterproof and have a 2 year warranty) We also offer baehr intercoms in trial packs and helmets that can be taken for the weekend and used for your own trial testing so you can compare the quality of the baehr system with other system offered on the market. Then you can decide and make your own decision. Tony Jericevich. If you already have another system you are welcome also to try and compare. LETTER TO THE EDITOR I enjoyed reading the article by Stephen Cooper and his review and personal thoughts on the three intercoms from the humble Audio Vox system to Pinfold marketed system, and to his latest system being the Baehr. In all 3 intercoms he personally tried for a period of time gave his own thoughts on the three units and finalized by saying that finance may dictate your choice of intercom but his choice was the Baehr system: An enjoyable and non-biased article. What I was a bit dismayed to read was the response to Stephens light hearted comparison to 3 intercoms by Tom Percy of Auckland, wondering why the model intercom of his choice was not included. Presumably Stephen Cooper had not heard about or seen advertising on the Starcom system or even tried the Starcom system, so was unable to make a comparison of it against the other models. I myself cannot make a comparison against the Starcom system or the Baehr system as Tom Percy has because I have only tried the one system, that being the Baehr basic model and it would be unfair to make a comparison between these 2 units without trying them both for a period of time before making a final decision. I find Tom Percy’s comparison a bit one sided as he had only tried the one system being the Starcom, but compared it with the Baehr basic model on price and functions. I myself have a Baehr basic model and for a start the price on the Baehr basic is only $627.00 with headsets and not $1100.00, and unlike most intercom systems that only have 1 model, Baehr offer a model range to suit all applications and budgets. I firmly believe the old saying of “You only get what you pay for.” For my $627.00 I had a free use of a portable basic model for a week with 2 helmets to see how I found the system and then on a Saturday morning I enjoyed a coffee, drooled over the new BMW Police bikes getting fitted with intercoms, and had my (Cont. page 22) BMW Owners Register Newsletter 20 May 2005 The purpose of Market Place is to provide a service for members of BMWOR of NZ. Advertisements will be accepted from members, commercial traders and non-members when it is considered in our members’ interest to do so. Currently, no charge is made for insertions and non-commercial advertisements. The Editor and other Executives reserve the right to reject any advertisement considered inappropriate and take no responsibility for errors or omissions, the quality of items, claims made, or for any transactions that ensue.The purpose of Market Place is to provide a service for members of BMWOR of NZ. Advertisements will be accepted from members, commercial traders and non-members when it is considered in our members’ interest to do so. Currently, no charge is made for insertions and non-commercial advertisements. The Editor and other Executives reserve the right to reject any advertisement considered inappropriate and take no responsibility for errors or omissions, the quality of items, claims made, or for any transactions that ensue. Ads are run for 3 months unless advised. Market Place BIKES FOR SALE R1150RT, 2003 Twin spark model, metallic grey, ABS, 7,000km. Pristine condition. Has number plate R1150. Includes side cases and top case with back rest. Extra brand new windscreen included. $27,995. Ph: 021-294-0232. (1) BMW K100 RS 16V. 127,000 Km. 3 Owners. ABS, Fox rear shock, “progressive” fork springs, Givi top box, BMW panniers, engine protection bars, new front tyre, fork seals, steering head bearings and WOF. Fully serviced Forced sale due to ill health. Ph: 04 9729891. (1) R100 GS/PD 1989, red and white. 78000km. WOF and Reg. In very tidy condition with factory panniers. Near new dual purpose Avon tyres. Has had new drive shaft fitted and gear box bearings replaced. Braided front brake lines and 4 pot Nissin calliper. Ohlins adjustable rear shock and progressive front springs. K&N filter. Visi Lights. Original toolbox and manual. Lots of paperwork for work done and some spare parts. $6750.00 ono. Contact Tim. 07-5482982 or 0272922682. tim-neve@clear.net.nz (1) R850R Black, 18 months old, 11,000km, BMW heated handgrips, BMW luggage racks, single-seat option, Givi screen, Excellent condition, $17,000 Contact Sue 027 280 1521. (2) BMW R1100RT 1996 Mint condition, expat, 20K miles (30K KM). Main dealer serviced, full luggage kit comprising side panniers with linings and top box, full factory spec plus mongoose alarm system and intercom. Age and mortality forces reluctant sale, $13,000, Phone 09 422 0004 or 021 645 341. (2) BMW R80RT 1986 Excellent nick, full BMW panniers, 72,000km faithfully maintained, no outstanding known maintenance issues. Fully Regd and WOF, genuine classic. I am only selling as I have bought a F650GS. Ph John BMW Owners Register Newsletter 0800 160 861 jsvercoe@southnet.co.nz R1150RT in beautiful Garnet Red. This (2) is a 2003 model with all the goodies that comes with a new BMW. Distance R1100RT 2000, 21,000km in Metallic traveled is 9810km. Bike was purchased Green. Excellent condition. Heated grips, so Margaret & I could comfortably tour cruise control, electric screen, ABS, head the Mainland and enjoy the Rally at protectors, alarm and immobiliser, BMW Arthur’s Pass, which we did. $24,995.00 side panniers and top box, tank bag with Ph/Fx 09 836 3372 email map pocket, Radio fittings (no radio). jonsam@ihug.co.nz (3) Asking $18,000 pr p/x an older R/K plus cash. E.mail PARTS FOR SALE info@sydenhamcomputerservices.com Monolever Parts. Panniers & frames, or Ph 07 863 4792 or 027 444 1256 (Bay Tank, Seat, Panels, Mudguards, of Plenty) (2) Subframe, Front end, Rear shock, Lights, Raask rearsets, Other bits & R100R 1993 78,000km 2 owners, BMW pieces. Also Ducati Darmah front panniers and Givi top box. Excellent mudguard, Brand new Royal Enfield dual condition, $7,000 ph 03 385 8698 or seat. Ph: Paul 09 459 5502 (eves.) (1) e.mail aldiforgie@xtra.co.nz (2) Number Plate – 1100R. $595. Ph: 021BMW F650CS Scarver. Dec 2002 294-0232. (1) model. Fully optioned-ABS, heated grips, hazard lights, power socket, low seat. Number Plate – 1150R. $695. Ph: 021Gold-orange colour. 4500kms, mint 294-0232. (1) condition, one owner. Cost $18,000 new with extras, selling for $11,995. Contact R100RS Complete exhaust system in Faye 06 3688 359 or email very good condition $250. Spare blade w r i t e _ c l i c k @ p a r a d i s e . n e t . n z . good order $20 Personalized plate ‘BMWCS’ available Lower right fairing panel (pearl colour) separately. (3) new $50. Splitter unit with matching pair of choke cables new $50. Phone Charlie K75C 1986 69,000km green, 3 owners, 03 388 1842. (3) I have owned it since 1991. Excellent Helmet BMW Evo 54-55 Piermont Red, cond, serviced regularly, new rear tyre, as new hardly worn. Phone Terry 09 521 panniers and top box, tank cover and 1467 or 027 498 2971 $840. (3) genuine high screen. $5,200 Ph Barry Inner Bags (BMW) Suit all late model 03 418 2078 or email BMW Panniers $100 pair. Ph 07 577 willcock@actrix.gen.nz (3) 9778. (3) R1200C Avant-garde 2002. Colour is Dust Metallic (not available in NZ). Only 10,000kms and just been serviced. Ordered to owners specifications. Panniers and inserts, touring handlebars and heated grips, screen, extremely comfortable passenger seat. Registered until Sept, WOF until Oct. Absolutely pristine condition. Can email photos if required. $22,500 Ph Phil 021 534 517 or email daviesjandp@xtra.co.nz (3) K1200RS 2001. Black with bags and top box. 2 X owners. 14,000kms. Immaculate condition. $22,500 ono Ph 07 542 2733. (3) 21 CLOTHES FOR SALE Draggin jeans, never worn, ladies size 10/12 short leg, black, $125. Fox 180 kids motocross pants, blue, new, size12/14, $100. Ph: Paul 09 459 5502 (eves) (1) WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy, BMW Savanna jacket and gortex liner, black, medium size, Ph Tony (027) 2777 277 or e-mail TonyS@msfs.co.nz. (1) Good second-hand Complete petrolcap assembly to suit R1150RT.Ph Mac, 0272378197 (3) May 2005 Apart from boring stuff about new bikes & techy details ,a news letter I receive from Motorrad in Scotland contains real interesting information like this. (Scottish humour.) Cheers John S. EVIL C’s RIDICULOUS MOTORCYCLING FACTS PART 2 In the desperate days towards the end of WW2 the Japanese would fire old Kawasaki KH250’s from gigantic catapults at Allied aircraft. The Allies would reply by dropping dead animals on them from huge altitudes. Dave Sputum from Gatwick has been circling the world on an old BMW R65 he has now been round two and a half times because he can not remember where he started! The BMW K1200LT weighs more than It has recently been discovered that the the planet Jupiter. fungal growth in an inlet manifold of an early K100RS has been successfully The BMW K1200LT is the only used in trials as a cure for scurvy* Kevin motorcycle that is visible from space. Schwantz the world famous motorcycle The top box on the BMW K1200LT was racer was once an old dry stick that once used to house Napolean’s armies Kenny Roberts found one day whilst and a couple of his leggies as well. Oh digging for soup in the Arizona desert. ha ha. The first motorcycles were powered by the combined rage of the Norwegian Noriyuki Haga is not actually Japanese people. but is really from Kidderminster and his Barry Manilow the crooning superstar real name is Davie Morrison. He welds was the first man to successfully jump a cake-stands to the peoples hips and The following new members have Super Dream over 12 empty lemonade collects old sea lions. joined the Register: bottles. The K1200S, a favourite; but not everybody’s “cup of tea”! Potential Trade-ins! Ingrid & Richard Taylor, Westport Mike Elford, Dunedin Pam Fisher & Clive Lawrence, Orakei Jacqui & Chris Phillips, Palmerston North Neil Powell, Auckland Steve Harris, Petone Kris Miller, Lower Hutt Pete Sunckell, Christchurch John Stevens, Tokoroa Alistair McGaughran, Dunedin. THE BMW INVITE On Sunday the 24th April, the Wellington, Taranaki and Rangitkei branches were offered a chance to ride the new collection and generation of BMW bikes. This was at the Palmerston North’s BMW agent, Jeff Grey. There was a good turn out of members from all the areas and the reward for the cold and wet day (at home) was well rewarded with rides on the R1200RT, R1200ST, R1200GS, K1200S and the F560CS. There were 2 GS’s and ST’s. BMW also provided coffee, biscuits and pizza. Well done BMW (NZ) and Jeff Grey. For the Wellington riders, if they had not arrived home before 5.00pm, they were to run into Southerly rain and a very cold front. That evening, the ground was white with hail. 2 crash helmets fitted out with speakers and microphones, and my Baehr basic unit fitted to my bike at Challenger Motors. The unit was tested and including the nominal fitting charge I still paid less than $750.00. I have no problems with product comparisons when everything is on the same playing field. BMW Owners Register Newsletter Not only do we thoroughly enjoy riding with an intercom system along with other BMWOR club members, but it’s also rewarding to support fellow BMWOR club members business ventures i.e. Challenger Motors. I have nothing but praise for a great product and exceptional service. Malcolm Sargent. 1137 22 Look forward to next issue! May 2005 BMW Owners Register Newsletter 23 May 2005 Registered at NZ Post Wellington as a magazine Dave Morris & Cheryl Marquis 12 Tarras Grove Kelson Lower Hutt NEW ZEALAND Area Representatives NORTHLAND BAY OF PLENTY RANGITIKEI NELSON Ross McAulay 09 431 2311 sara.ross.mc@xtra.co.nz Clive Dominy 07 577 0117 clive.dominy@xtra.co.nz Graeme Flyger 06 357 3424 Gavin Tait 03 540 2677 AUCKLAND EAST COAST WELLINGTON Noel Walker 09 813 2310 NOEL-BLONDIE-WALKER @xtra.co.nz David Clark 06 844 1599 margaret.david@xtra.co.nz By Committee Norm 04 479 1591 or Bill 04 586 3234 CANTERBURY WAIKATO Bryan Hoffman 07 838 0340 bryan.dorrie@xtra.co.nz TARANAKI MARLBOROUGH OTAGO & SOUTHLAND Valma Kuriger 06 755 0688 dave.valma@clear.net.nz Kelvin Watson 03 577 6822 Julia_Kelvin@xtra.co.nz Barry Richardson 03 476 2772 sn.btrichardson@clear.net.nz BMW Owners Register Newsletter graeme_carole@inspire.net.nz 24 gjtait@xtra.co.nz Geoff Odell 03 329 4655 May 2005