Nov - Dec - Canberra Chapter

Transcription

CHOG
CA NB ER RA HA RL EY
OW NER S GRO UP
CHRONICLE:
N OV E MB ER — DE CE M BER 2 01 3
FOR LATEST INFORMATION ON:
RIDES, EVENTS AND PHOTOS
go online to .....
www.CHOG.ORG.AU
Proudly sponsored by
Robbo’s Motorcycles
281 Canberra Ave,
Fyshwick, ACT 2609
Australia
P: 02 6280 6939
harleysales@robboshd.com.au
HOG CHAPTER 9060
Merry Christmas 2013 to you, your family & friends
IN THIS EDITION
SECTION 1 - -CHOG
Pages 1 to 24
SECTION 2—HOG EVENTS
Pages 25 to 28
SECTION—NON-HOG
Pages 29 to 32
Caption: Our NEW HOG logo …. read more inside on Page 3.
EVENT CALENDAR
Page 33
CHOG members HAVE YOUR SAY …. All members are encouraged to contribute to the this
magazine by way of articles, stories. reports, funnies, events etc. Contributions from other
HOG chapters are also most welcome …. keep us informed of relevant events.
Send your contributions to the CHOG Editor email: editor@chog.org.au or hand deliver to Robbo’s.
CANBERRA HARLEY OWNERS GROUP
Page 2
WORDS FROM THE EDITOR
Hi all from the Editors seat,
Rally has been set in the background of recent
developments by the QLD Police Force to crack
down on organised crime; this focuses to some
extent on ‘bikies’ (not bikers). The difference is
subtle but understood by the Police. See the open
letter below from Harley Davidson Australia to
support our rally in Cairns.
All comments to editor@chog.org.au or ring me.
Mike Riley
Editor HOG—Canberra Chapter (CHOG)
QUEENSLAND POLICE CRACKDOWN
on ‘Bikies’
To All Australian Chapter Officers HD-Australia.
I trust you all had an amazing Christmas and new
year and with lots of riding in between!
We have had a number of Officers and Members
express their concerns about riding to the
Australian National Rally in Cairns early May and
would like to take the concerns head on.
By the time you read this Christmas 2013 and
New Year 2014 will have passed and perhaps for
some, a fast diminishing memory as you get back
into the 2014 business year. I trust that it was a
fantastic time for you, your family and friends and Firstly we understand that in general, the number
that 2014 is both prosperous and safe for you all. of random Police checks is decreasing and we
anticipate this trend will continue as the Police get
on top of their goal to reduce criminal activity. In
For some of you 2013 was a trying and testing
our discussions, the Police have expressed their
time either professionally or personally. It is
concern about the inconvenience caused to
during these times that we need to focus and
push through but this is most often assisted with regular riders, whilst also confirming their
determination to achieve their objectives. Both the
the close support of family and friends. To this
QLD Police Commissioner and the QLD Police
end I was reminded how the CHOG family
Minister are encouraging the rally to continue and
provided me with a direct insight into this more
than once in the last 12 months. Most recently on for riders to travel to Cairns to support the event.
The Police Commissioner has undertaken to
a personal note the Chapter provided us with the
shortly provide us with an open letter of
avenue to ‘re-charge’ our batteries by providing
reassurance for members. This will be posted on
the ‘mate-ship’ and the opportunity to RIDE…. that
our rally website.
open road. The concentration on getting to the
destination and back safely was a breath of fresh
air to recent tragic events. It reminded me that
there are many therapies but not many quite like
getting out and about on a bike with friends.
On to new things…. 2014 and Cairns National
We need to make this rally a success, not
because of the event itself but to show the Police
and the people of Queensland that HOG riders are
responsible, good citizens who simply want to ride
and have fun.
Page 3
WORDS FROM THE EDITOR
QLD Police support to Cairns Rally…………
There are no words to express how grateful we are
for that.
This positive impression will be a real boost to our
local members whilst encouraging all riders to
From the beginning, the iconic H.O.G. logo has
enjoy the freedom to ride in Queensland.
represented the passion of our riders. But 30
years of anything - even a good thing - is a long
Families stick together when things get tough;
time.
they don’t turn their back or not turn up.
So we went to you, our members, to lead the
It would be awesome if our rally in Cairns became change and direct where to go next with this
one of the biggest and best in spite of these
powerful symbol.
current obstacles and concerns. It is our
opportunity to show the general public of
We talked to members from all over the world at
Queensland that the Harley Owners Group is
rallies, events, chapter meetings and fuel stations
made up of good people who are just free spirited, and when we put four new designs up for a vote,
passionate riders determined to ride regardless of more than 100,000 of you raised your voice and
the climate be it the weather or the political
the results were clear.
climate.
So we now present you with the new H.O.G. logo. A
Harley-Davidson sets out to fulfil the dreams of
logo which still captures the spirit of the original
personal freedom and it does this all over the
design while still being instantly recognisable. The
world, so nothing should stop us going to Cairns. Harley-Davidson Bar and Shield is at its heart,
declaring H.O.G. as the official riding club of H-D
See you on the road.
and the eagle, its gaze shifted to look towards the
new future of H.O.G. Now more than ever, the
world will know that H.O.G. and Harley-Davidson
Kim Williams
are one and the same, completely inseparable.
Customer Experience Manager—HD Australia
NEW HOG Logo
Thank you for being an essential part of this
historic process. We're excited about where this
club has been and where we're headed, and we're
thrilled to be riding beside you.
To find out more about Harley-Davidson or H.O.G.
please head to our website at www.h-d.com.au
Kim Williams
Customer Experience Manager—HD Australia
For 30 years, you've made H.O.G. one of the most
positive and lasting identities in the motorcycle
world.
Your connection to the Motor Company has
helped make Harley-Davidson what it is today.
Page 4
CHOG DIRECTORS REPORT
Hi all CHOG members
As acting Director while Brett Hannam (aka
Hammer) is away on holidays I provide you with
the November-December report.
hot riding conditions but we do have a great ride
calendar shaping up for the year and I trust that
you can make the most of it.
Keep your eye out for one other event which we
have already started planning for which is the
As I am writing this we are in a heat wave with
2015 ACT/NSW state rally, which we are hosting.
temperatures at 38 deg C plus and rides are being We have already send dates to Kim Williams of
cancelled for safety reasons. Marie and Helens
HD Australia at her request and have also
Twilight run and Rob Goodworths Wee Jasper
contacted Coffs Harbour Chapter (Chris Murphy –
Caves ride are casualties but hopefully we can do ex Director) and Brian (incoming Director) for
them at a later date.
information on how they ran their successful rally.
More to following in the next magazine issue on
Looking back on 2013 we had a large number of this topic.
CHOG members attending their first [NSW] state
rally held in Coffs Harbour. With various rides on That’s about it from me. A quote from a friend:
the way there and return, rally attendees had a
“When life throws you a curve, lean into it”.
chance to complete some great rides and I had
the pleasure of having four (4) trainee Road
Hope to see you at the shop and on a ride (or
Captains, now qualified, accompanying me on
many).
some of these. What a fun lot of people to ride
with it and it has to be said that CHOG knows how Cheers Pete Henshaw
to have fun and we showed that again throughout Assistant Director CHOG
the rally.
With many other rides finishing off the year, most
notable was the MRA toy ride which saw the return
to riding for Hammer after nearly 12 months off
the bike due to his shoulder surgery following a
riding accident.
Great to see you riding again Hammer.
We also had our Christmas party at the Old
Canberra Inn with around 62 people in
attendance, complete with secret Santa and a
buffet meal. Thanks everyone for their
participation throughout the year and again at this
function.
Over the Christmas and New Year period some of
our members managed to get in a ride along the
Great Ocean Road and had the opportunity to see
what the entire area had to offer. Comments such
as “best ride ever done” are indicators of the great
time they had. Maybe they would like to do this as
a CHOG ride sometime?
2014 has not started out very well with the very
Ride Photo’s and
Archives
our Club Photographer—
Warden. (aka Greg).
Stills can be any size
however typically for print
300 dpi or 1 MB or better
is desired and in either
png or jpeg format. Video
in any modern format.
A reminder to all club
members. If you are on a
club outing and take
photos (or video) and you
think that it could form
part of our club newsletter Greg Symons
or simply for archival
(Warden)
purposes then do not
CHOG Potographer /
forget to provide a copy to
Archives
YOUR CHOG COMMITTEE
Page 5
2013—2014
Director
director@chog.org.au
Brett Hannam (Hammer)
Assistant Director
asst_director@chog.org.au
Peter Henshaw
Secretary
secretary@chog.org.au
Helen Symons
Treasurer
treasurer@chog.org.au
Rob Goodworth (Noddy)
Head Road Captain
headrc@chog.org.au
Graeme Cottrell (Kiwi)
Activities Officer
activities@chog.org.au
Allan Lohse (Arno)
Membership Officer
ron.tollenaar57@gmail.com
Ron Tollenaar (Rainman)
Safety Officer
activities@chog.org.au
Olaf Moon (Olly)
Harley Davidson Liaison Officer
loh@chog.org.au
Marie Stavropoulos (Devil)
Ladies of Harley Officer
(Riding)
loh@chog.org.au
Ladies Of Harley Officer
(non-Riding)
headrc@chog.org.au
Sally Crosby
YOUR CHOG COMMITTEE CONT..
Web Master
webmaster@chog.org.au
Ian Parker (Emu)
Page 6
2013—2014
Photographer
chog.photographer@gmail.com
Greg Symons (Warden)
Editor
editor@chog.org.au
Mike Riley (Radar)
ACTIV E ROAD CAPTAINS (QUAL IFIED)
Graeme Cottrell (Kiwi)
Ron Tollenaar (Rainman)
Rob Hamilton
Olaf Moon (Olly)
Rob Goodworth
Brett Hannam (Hammer)
Greg Symons (Warden)
Ron Bell
Ian Parker (Emu)
Helen Symons
Wayne Walker
….UNDER TRAINING 2013-14)
Allan Lohse (Arno)
Lisa Yourmann
Wayne Beasley
Michael Robertson (Robbo)
Brendan Odd (Bodd)
Rob Gorman (Cowboy)
Page 7
NEW OR RETURNING MEMBERS
RETURNING MEMBER S OR TRANSFERS
No returning or transferring members
NEW HOG/CHOG MEMBERS
John Bamman (Heritage Softail)
Mark Hopkins (Heritage)
Andrew Horsfall (Sportster)
Adam Higham (Street Bob)
Vicky Chan (Sportster)
Tony Siciliano (Deluxe)
RETURNING HOG/CHOG MEMBERS
Dion Koch
Kim Koch
A BIG HOGGIES WELCOME TO ALL
MEMBERS INFORMATION
Available for you!!
Do you have a copy of the H.O.G Membership
manual?
Refer to the HD Australia website for more
information including national and international
news and information.
CHOG WEEKLY ACTIVITIES & RUNS
Do not forget to keep an eye out for our CHOG
weekly Activities Update which is emailed to you
weekly by the Activities Officer (Arlo) and includes
the latest ride information and any
accommodation or trip specials. If you are not
receiving this email speak to ARLO he doesn't bite
(hard). If you provide your mobile phone number
also then you can receive ‘piglet’ news which is
usually ‘next day’ short notice ‘non-HOG’ runs for
coffee and lunch etc.
Note for runs. If a CHOG/HOG event is advertised
as an overnight or multiple day run BE ADVISED
that you can usually join and leave the run at
times and places of your choosing.
Just speak to the Road Captain to ensure they
know your plans so that they can adjust the run
sheets or advise you of any variations etc.
‘YOUR CHOG EVENT/RIDE‘
Enter it in this Newsletter
We need the information (what, where, when,
contact etc) details for the calendar and we NEED
your TRIP report. This news helps new and old
members understand what is going on and how
much fun it is to participate. So write it up
(roughly) and send it to the Editor.
If you have a CHOG or Harley event (more than
two (2) months in advance) then you can
advertise it here. If you are not sure about its
relevance see a Committee member or the club
director for inclusion in our calendar of events.
If the activity is less than two (2) months away
then see the CHOG Activities Officer (Arlo) about
putting in in the CHOG weekly email issue.
2014 GENUINE MOTOR PARTS
see the latest magazine and “Welcome to the
Harley-Davidson Book Club”
Comment from a reader….If there were more
books like this, book clubs would make a lot more
sense. The 2014 Genuine Motor Parts &
Accessories Catalogue has everything you need to
make your ride your own, including over 10,000
Genuine H-D® Accessories to really get you
inspired. Plus, it contains some of the most
beautiful words in the English language. Words
like 'Chrome', 'Saddlebags' and 'Custom'....
Page 8
MEET THE NEW MEMBERS & BBQ
Every Saturday we CHOG members meet at Robbo’s for a catch-up however on the first Saturday of
each month we hold a ‘meet n greet’ for new members in particular. We have a BBQ for a late
breakfast and weather permitting we combine this with a short ‘run’ to a local destination. Run times
are generally 3-4 hours duration. A run captain will be appointed for the day.
If you are a NEW MEMBER we want to meet you (and your partner, pillion or whatever) and encourage
your participation at club events, particularly on rides. So come along: call a committee member: or
send and email for details of our next event.
Note:
‘Open’ event means that you can bring a friend; encourage others to join our rides and generally
participate.
‘Closed’ events are for current CHOG club members only (full or associate).
New Members / BBQ Breakfast
&
Meet the Members Run
~ Open Event ~
When:
Where:
When:
1st Saturday of each calendar month.
Robbo's, 281 Canberra Ave, Fyshwick (02 6280 6939).
10:00 ish start. (Volunteers welcome).
Free
Offer
Cut out and
put on fridge
BBQ Breakfast:
10:00am ($2.00)
New Members Ride: 10:30am for a 11:00am Start.
Note:
In case of inclement Weather
BBQ is on rain/hail/or shine.
Ride—decision made around 10:00 on the day.
Bring a friend along.
Put a recurring
appointment
in diary
Page 9
K NOW YOUR CL UB M AT ES — B ILL S TEEN
Hi fellow members, my name is Bill Steen and as a
relatively new CHOG member I thought I would
provide this profile so that you can get to know me
a little better.
resource and energy management data. We have
16+ offices around the world and I’m responsible
as the General Manager for the operations within
the southern hemisphere, Asia and Italy. I also
oversee another group company in New Zealand
I was originally born in Geelong, hence my passion and sit as a Director on other intercompany
as a mad Geelong Cats supporter. My father was a Boards.
Maples Furniture employee and their policy was to
move their managers [and families] every couple
Our clients include all the Australian state and
of years to a different store, consequently I have
federal government departments and a majority of
lived in Geelong, Sale, Horsham, and Melbourne
the international water agencies.
before finally moving to Tumut. Wayne Walker’s
(CHOG Road Captain) sister went to school with my Hence, I do a lot of travelling around Australia and
sister in Tumut— it is a small world.
the globe for work as I visit clients in Africa,
Vietnam, NZ, UK, Italy, Malaysia, USA, Germany,
Growing up in the country meant I started riding
and Singapore etc. Hence, that is why I’ll do a
farm/dirt bikes, which were the old Yamaha AG
CHOG ride and then you may not see me for a
bikes followed by a stint on a Yamaha RD350 and month or so due to work travel commitments.
a mate had a new Kawasaki Z1 900, which I got to
ride occasionally. In the 70’s I thought the Z1 900 Things I am involved in besides work and riding
was a huge bike in size, but compared to today’s
include being the National Chairman of an
bikes it seems like a toy!
Australian water association, sit on a National
Water Standards committee, and the President of
After finishing school, I started with the
the Geelong Football Club official ACT supporter
Commercial Bank in Tumut then moved to Wagga, group [Canberra Cats], which we have over 520
and did stints in Yass, Merimbula, and Coolamon supporters registered in this region.
before applying for a transfer to Geelong.
On the home front, my wife Wendy and I have
I left the bank in the late 70’s to take up a job as a three adult children. One of my son’s rides a Ninja
Hydrographic Assistant with the then NSW
300, Wendy has a Vespa and another son recently
Department of Water Resources, based in North
sold his Honda VT750 S.
Sydney. The job entailed travelling around in 4
wheel drives, and on occasion off road bikes, all
I purchased my first Harley in 2012, which is a
over NSW collecting water resource information
2012 Road King coloured Big Blue Pearl. Prior to
like river flows, flood data, etc.
this I rode mainly Japanese bikes, most of which
were cruisers. Continued on page ….21
In 1986, I got a job with the Commonwealth
government in Canberra as a Technical Officer
[Hydrographer] looking after the local water
resource monitoring programs. This position lead
to undertaking international hydrology project work
in such countries as Papua New Guinea, Tonga,
Sarawak, Sabah, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia,
Canada, Turkey, Chile, and Brazil. I also undertook
environmental monitoring projects at various
mining sites including Ranger Uranium Mine in the
Northern Territory.
I now work for an international software company
that supplies software to manage both water
SAFETY
Page 10
- HOT STUFF FOR LIFE
Hi all fellow CHOG riders
as amongst the safest barrier – surprisingly.
But here is the challenge to motorcycle riders – if
the ARMCO steel fence is high, then a rider can
slide under the fence, and be injured once they hit
Wire Rope Safety Barriers (WRSB)
the mounting posts. Many have been killed on the
Putty Road as a result of this one. From a safety
Many of our HOG riders will be familiar with
perspective, the wire rope cable fences that are
watching high speed crashes by MotoGP racing
popping up everywhere are even more dangerous
bikes, where the bike goes down at over 200kph,
to us – for two reasons;
and the rider slides for many metres, then

The wire itself acts like a wire cheese cutter
miraculously stands and walks away, with minimal
– a knife to the rider who strikes it directly.
injuries. This demonstrates the maxim –

The posts stand out from the wire, and are
“It’s not the fall that causes the issue,
closer, so act to tear at the body and bike.
it’s the impact with an object [that will kill you].”
Passive Killers
This is so true. Some years ago, I managed to ride
most weekends around Sydney and witnessed
eleven minor accidents from Harley Riders over a
single year. Not one of them resulted in a serious
injury. The rider was shaken, with dented pride
and the chrome received a touch up, but the rest
was history. The simple fact is that most slid off
the road in a corner and did not impact with a
metal guard rail, tree, rock, wall or other “Road
furniture” [read—’solid object’].
For many years, there were no barriers along the
edges of our roads – you took your chances and
rode carefully around areas with lots of trees or
cliffs. Then along came the ARMCO type “W”
metal fences, and motorcyclists were rarely
injured as the bike slid along the smooth metal
fence (provided it was installed at the correct
height). The ATSB (Transport Safety Bureau) and
the Accident Research Centre at Monash
University have confirmed from research that;
In general, however, it appears that barriers
with a smooth, continuous surface (located
reasonably close, and oriented roughly
parallel, to the traffic stream) represent less
of a safety hazard to motorcyclists as they
better allow the rider to slide along the
surface of the barrier without the danger of
impacting any sharp edges or corners that
can concentrate the impact force.
It’s hard to put this gently.
The posts on a wire rope fence are killers – they
will dismember the riders’ body resulting in
serious injury to death EVEN at slow speeds. Yet a
report from State Governments in 2000 said
there were no motorcycle deaths on WRSB known
– the fact is that they were not recorded correctly,
largely because of the serious nature of the
accidents.
In early December 2013, a school mate of mine
was killed instantly on the Brooker Highway in
Hobart, after he hit a wire rope fence at less than
70km/hr. His daughter and pillion is still in
hospital.
The message to ALL riders is to slow down and
take great care around these types of fences.
In another incident near Orange, a friend came
across two young constables who were attending
a similar accident. Both were being violently ill
over the fence – having witnessed extreme
carnage at the site. The rider was literally cut into
pieces.
So why are WRSB’s so popular? They were
originally design as “Cross-median” barriers on
dual carriage ways, to stop vehicles running head
on into one another, such as trucks on the Pacific
Highway. When installed correctly and straight,
they are very effective. But because they are
This makes Jersey Walls (concrete blocks used on
cheaper, all companies including Armco, ACP,
the side of some roads and at construction zones)
SAFETY
Page 11
Passive Killers continued ……
Ingal and others provide a similar product, and
they are now being used on corners, despite
representations from the MRA to stop this
practice.
NSW—Centre for Road Safety
New South Wales—Department of Transport and
the CRS reduce risks for a safer ride.
With motorcycle riding more popular than ever,
saving riders’ lives and preventing injuries is a
Witness the rise of the corner wire rope barriers
critical road safety challenge. As motorcycle
north of Booroowa and around Orange. They
riders are more exposed, they run the risk of
have effectively made some of the great riding
more serious injuries if involved in a crash. With
roads of Australia, such as the Oxley Highway,
strong support from motorcycle groups, the
really, really dangerous for motorcyclists.
Centre for Road Safety and RMS have
developed measures to improve motorcycle rider
From a SAFETY view point, what can you do?
safety, including:

State-wide advertising campaigns targeting
Here are options I can suggest;
rider knowledge and behaviour, as well as

ATGATT – wear the best protective gear you
driver awareness of the presence of
can. Be aware when you are riding, if the
motorcycle riders
particular road you are on is fitted with

Signs on popular scenic routes where
WRSB’s, as many roads are not.
motorcycle crashes are more frequent,

Slow down. Don’t go 10 tenths on corners
including the Royal National Park, Putty
with these barriers; slow to seven tenths! In
Road and the Wollombi Loop north of
PARTICULAR watch out where there are
Sydney
barriers on BOTH sides of the road – there

The NSW Centre for Road Safety Consumer
is nowhere to go if you have to avoid
Ratings and Assessment of Safety Helmets
another vehicle – these exist in a number
(CRASH) involves the testing and assessing
of places around NSW – the Booroowa to
of motorcycle helmets for safety and
Orange road is an example.
comfort

Have a plan . Work out the options before

A Graduated Licensing Scheme for
you slide. This may sound crazy but it works
motorcycle riders
and is the basis of much of military or
By choosing safer helmets and riding gear,
special forces ‘quick reaction’ training.
motorcyclists can ensure they have the best
Anyone who has had an accident/incident
protection, while regular bike maintenance helps
knows that “time slows down” – your brain
keep motorcycles in a safe condition for riding.
goes into hyper-drive from adrenalin and
you get some chance to react. I would
Maintaining a three-second gap, scanning the
suggest it is better to stand on the pegs
road and setting up are some of the riding tips
and go OVER a fence then through it. I
that can help motorcyclists avoid danger. Riders
have never had the opportunity to try this
need to be aware that speed, alcohol and fatigue
and hope that the situation never arises,
can all increase the risk of having a crash and
but lifting your legs or rising-up strike me as
being injured.
better options than being cut to ribbons.
What do you think?
With advances in anti-lock braking systems,
riders can improve their safety by choosing one
Wire Rope Fences can be killers for motorcyclists.
of the increasing number of motorcycles and
Be aware and take careful action when you are
scooters that offer the option of ABS.
near them.
The Centre for Road Safety develops initiatives
and practical solutions in consultation with
Olaf Moon
motorcycle riders and groups including the
Safety Officer - CHOG
Motorcycle Council of NSW (plus others).
SAFETY
Page 12
Having ridden on two, three and four wheel bikes
(motorised and not) since I was very young I have
had my fair share of riding incidents and
Several members have coincidentally pointed me
accidents. I have had incidents and accidents
to the article following with a suggestion or request
when playing sport, riding animals (horse, bull etc)
for inclusion in our magazine. I have had this
and using roller skates. In fact, putting this in
material for some time, and others like it.
context, ever since I started moving across the
surface of this earth using something other than
Fact versus fiction and value.
solely my own body. My most damaging and those
resulting in the most scaring or loss of function
I am never confused about the need for material
have been the result of other situations (not a
being used for ‘education’ (in its broadest context)
motorbike).
to be clear and unambiguous. I am often confused
about the desire or motivation of people who
What is equally clear to me is that a vast majority
refuse to be [properly] informed, for what ever
of these mishaps were my own fault and factually
reason, and then go on to make decisions which
I survived 100% of them [touch wood].
are remarkable for their negative outcomes.
Hi All Editor here.
Perhaps this is due to its delivery or intent
(context) either way surely input does not
determine the decision entirely! When this
‘information’ incorporates ‘shocking’ content then
it often becomes controversial.
Was this good management or good luck or
something in between?
This is a motorcycle club magazine and in this
context we understand that you are a motorcycle
rider whether as a driver or a pillion. You are
moving across the surface of the earth using a
Ultimately my compass swings towards a broad,
machine, often at speed. The purpose of the club
unbiased presentation of factual information so
is to promote a healthy and well functioning
that I can form my ‘own’ opinion—regardless of the
environment for motorcycle enthusiasts, which is
topic or intent of the provider. I trust that this
achieved in many ways. Education and information
simple point meets with your agreement.
are only one of these. Some of the others are
already mentioned earlier in this magazine and
In this case where this ‘factual’ information is
promoted by many organisations including in
shocking to the individual reader then my
particular H-D.
apologies in advance but I believe that my
experiences (positive) are in some way a comfort
Regardless of the numerous situations much of
to you. That this material is presented in an
what is ’received’ about safety or ‘education’ (in
unfettered, balanced way rather than an ‘out of
any form) is highly dependent upon the
context’, perhaps unbalanced delivery.
background or experience, and hence ‘attitude’, of
Read on if you wish to be informed, ….but some of the reader.
the content can be confronting, if not simply go to
the next article….
To this end I provide you with the following
material for the SOLE PURPOSE of believing that
this will assist those readers who are undecided or
Whilst any ‘presentation’ cannot be entirely
concerned about the ‘safety’ of this motorcycle
unbiased as it is fundamentally ‘selected’ by
someone else other than the reader [by me in this interest and to move them towards a better
understanding and to a determination if they have
case], my approach to addressing this includes the
the capacity to reach a point where bike riding can
‘basis’ or background to its inclusion. I trust that
be safe and relatively incident free, in so far as
this leads towards context (appropriate).
moving at any speed across the earth and in
amongst other road travellers can be.
Background…..
SAFETY
Page 13
For those that are already of this understanding
this material should reinforce the facts as
summarised at the end of the article.
Brittany Morrow
‘Extreme Road Rash’
Cause, Effect, and Lessons Learned
© original source—Brittany Morrow
For perspective I have no input to or relationship
with the person this material is about but I do have
relatives and friends who are identical to this
One Year Has Passed
individual (as I have been in my earlier years).
Disclaimer. I have removed some of the content
for inclusion in this magazine without changing the
context or intent of it. I have removed repetitive or
unrelated (to safety) information and have left out
sections in order to shorten the total contribution
to fit within the space available. I provide no
advance notice as to my assessment of the
material. This is not intended to be a work of
entertainment although for me it makes good
reading and for the full story use a search engine
on the name and title.
What do you think? Feedback in writing to the
‘editor’ please.
Good reading
Mike Riley Editor—CHOG
It's hard to look in the mirror and think that my
scars are already an entire year old. Touching my
stomach and rib cage, I can't imagine looking this
way and feeling this pain for the rest of my life. I
still feel as if at any moment I will wake up from
this terrible dream and be comfortable in my own
skin once again. Knowing that it's real, that there
is nothing I can do to change it, I am reminded of
my mistakes every minute of everyday. I am also
reminded how lucky I am to be alive as I close my
eyes and remember why I still feel pain after an
entire year of healing.
Imagining that if I had not survived the accident, I
wouldn't have anything to touch at all, I smile when
my fingers run over a thick layer of scar tissue in
place of my once soft skin. I know my life has a
purpose, and I strive everyday to live up to the task
that has been placed at my feet.
The Accident
It was a beautiful Sunday morning even through
my blurred vision. I was on the back of my friend
Shaun's GSXR 750 and was excited to be on a
sport bike, even if it was as a passenger, after a
long streak of no riding whatsoever. I had shed my
prescription glasses for a pair of sunglasses, my
cowboy hat for an oversized helmet, and quickly
thrown on a pair of capri jeans, tennis shoes, and
a sweatshirt over my bikini.
I thought nothing of the fact that I had practically
no protection against the asphalt if anything were
to happen. I figured that we couldn't get into a
wreck; it simply wouldn't happen to me.
It's amazing how fast life came at me that day.
Approaching mile marker seven on highway 550, I
noticed that I had to start fighting the wind to stay
behind Shaun without pulling on him too much.
SAFETY
Page 14
Brittany Morrow, Extreme Road Rash continued….. would not live to see the next day. My eyes were
closed as I finished my 522 foot tumble down
I placed my hands on the gas tank and pushed
highway 550. I never lost consciousness, but I
myself into him as much as possible without
remember wishing that I had.
crowding him. As we came around to the right and
went down the hill, we kept accelerating.
At first I couldn't feel anything. A few moments
passed before anyone was at my side, and I had
I was scared, but thought I could handle the force the chance to try and move myself. Immediately, I
of the wind as it suddenly picked up much more
could tell that I had lost my left shoe as my toes
than in the moments before. I started to slide back were burning on the hot road. My right foot felt
on the seat and felt the cool air fill the small space stiff, completely unmovable, and I thought it was
between my chest and Shaun's back.
probably broken. I noticed that my knees were
uncovered when the little pieces of what I thought
I felt a rush of wind hit my face like a brick and our were gravel scraped against my skin, only to find
bodies separated in an instant; my visor had come out later that they were my actual kneecaps
completely open. The force pulled on my face and grinding against the pavement below them.
helmet so hard that it sent my head up and
backwards, ripping my entire body off the back
My right arm was trapped underneath me and my
seat with it.
shoulder felt hot. My left pinky [finger] was the
most noticeable pain in those first few minutes, a
I remember thinking that if I grabbed Sean's t-shirt throbbing and stabbing pain, as it bled profusely
I would pull him down with me, but it was already right in front of my face. I could smell my blood as
too late to try and grab a hold of him. I was only in it pooled beneath me on the road.
the air for a spilt second, but an eternity of
thoughts ran through my mind. I had no idea what By the time the ambulance came and rolled me
excessive speed I was about to hit the ground at or onto my back, removed my helmet, and called the
the damage it would do to my body, I just thought helicopter, I felt as if I had been cooking on the
about how my life had led to that point.
street for hours. Every nerve ending in my body
was on fire; tingling, scorching, and burning. I had
I remembered the basics of surviving a fall from a not gone into shock, and the adrenaline had worn
horse without injury, which I had done a few times off almost instantly.
in the previous year, and simply let myself go.
Not being able to move was the worst of it. I
I knew there was nothing else I could do.
wanted to pull my arm out from underneath me. I
wanted to get off that hot road. I wanted the sun to
When I hit the ground, it was as if every breath
stop shining so brightly on my naked back. I
I had ever taken rushed out of me in an instant.
wanted everything to just go away. But it didn't.
I could feel every inch of my body hitting the road;
tumbling, sliding and grinding into the unforgiving The people who sat on that road with me and
surface.
came to my rescue saved my life. I wanted to die,
but they wouldn't let me give up, they wouldn't let
In my helmet, which seemed so small and yet
me close my eyes and go to sleep.
completely empty, I could hear my whimpers as I
fought to breath and my prayer to God as I gave
The helicopter ride was fast. The morphine had
into the asphalt.
kicked in just around the time we landed at the
hospital, and the rest is somewhat of a blur. I
In a matter of seconds, I had come to the
remember hearing a doctor saying I had lost my
conclusion that I was going to die, and I was ok
entire left breast. I remember another asking me if
with it. I knew this was far worse than anything I
my family had been called.
had ever gone through and I was convinced I
SAFETY
Page 15
Brittany Morrow, Extreme Road Rash continued….. My road rash was so severe that my skin was not
going to grow back on its own. I had lost too much
A third doctor asked if she could take pictures of
surface area for the doctors to simply suture me
my wounds for documentation.
together and send me home.
When it came time to clean off my skin, the
doctors decided that a surgical debridement of the
dead tissue was necessary, along with invasive
repair to my pinky, right big toe, and left side from
hip to armpit. I don't even remember being put
under, and the rest is lost in the six hour surgery
that followed.
I was to receive full thickness skin grafts. Literally,
the doctors had only two (2) places on my body to
harvest healthy skin. My thighs were the only two
places that had not received any abrasions.
Wound vac: a slang medical term that will give me
goose bumps for the rest of my life. When a
patient receives a skin graft, a suction cup is
The Hospital
placed over the completed surgery in order to
increase blood flow from under the new skin.
I woke up wrapped like a mummy. I was on my
These devices are called wound vacuums, and
back in an air bed, in a room I had never seen. Did they ensure that the burn tissue does not die, but
I dream that Shaun had come and held my hand? rather joins with the new skin to create a layer of
dermis where none would have grown without the
Why were my parents here? I didn't know what was graft surgery. [details of the grafting process
going on, so I tried to sit up. Then I felt the intense removed].
pain on [….everywhere]. It all came at me in one
large rush, and I knew exactly where I was and
It [grafting] drove me to act bitter towards the
remembered what had happened.
people who cared about me the most; my parents
were there every day and I know it must have been
I spent the next three weeks waking up to the
difficult for them to put up with me.
exact same confusion, rush of pain, and realization
of my surroundings.
The pain I went through pushed me into a deep
depression, but I refused to be put on medication
for anything of that
nature. I was asked
several times if I
wanted to talk to a
psychologist about
the accident, talk
about the
nightmares my
nurses always
reported me having
at night, but I
denied the willing
listener.
In short, I made
sure I paid for my
mistakes dearly, not
only physically, but
emotionally as well.
SAFETY
Page 16
Brittany Morrow, Extreme Road Rash continued…..
After my final skin graft surgery on November
16th, I woke up feeling as if my back had been
completely replaced. The noticeable difference
between the open wound and the grafted burn was
enough to lift my spirits. I was able to lie down
comfortably for the first time in two months.
I was not on my own by any means; Coming home
was the best thing that could have happened to
me. I began driving after only two weeks out of the
hospital and started living my life as if I had never
fallen off that motorcycle. My friends and family
could see how quickly I was becoming myself
again. I truly believe being around such wonderful
support helped me heal as quickly as I did.
I knew the time had come for me to get out of the
hospital and start the real healing: returning to my [Details of the effects pain management drugs
normal life.
removed along with the daily circumstances of
rehabilitation].
My heart felt heaving knowing something I
loved so much had almost cost me my life.
I knew the mistakes I had made and the
consequences I never wanted to face
again.
I couldn't imagine not riding because it was
one of my joys. I knew I would never again
ride without my gear. Even on a hot day
and a short trip, my helmet would always
be on my head and I would make sure it
was functioning properly.
I was back on a motorcycle as a passenger
a few times before I was rid of the fear I
felt. Once I was able to go highway speeds,
I knew I was ready and able to ride again. I
wanted to feel the freedom that comes with
being alone on the machine and rolling on
the throttle, putting the rest of the world on
hold.
I bought my 2006 Yamaha R6s on June
22nd from a local dealer. With help from a
very close friend, I was reminded of the
basics of riding every morning for a couple
of weeks in free lessons that were tailored
to my needs as a rider.
Going Home
I walked slowly into my house for the first time in
over two months. The smell alone was enough to
make me smile, as Thanksgiving dinner was being
prepared for the next day.
I was taught the importance of knowing
that while on a motorcycle, literally anything can
happen at any time. Riding prepared for the worst
possibilities will always protect you from injury in
even the smallest wreck.
SAFETY
Page 17
Brittany Morrow, Extreme Road Rash continued…..
I know I never want to feel the way I did in the
hospital again, and anything I can do to keep that
from happening, I will do every time I get on a bike.
I learned some new skills in that first month back
on the road.
The Final Outcome
My road rash will take several years to completely
heal and will never look or feel normal again. I
have conquered the only fear that kept me from
riding and I will never put myself in the same
position to receive such injuries as I have lived
through this past year.
I stress the importance of wearing full gear to each
and every person I ride with, talk to, or even who
happens to read my story.
I believe that my experiences are a lesson to every
type of rider or passenger. I would never wish the
pain I felt and still feel today upon anyone in this
world. It is completely avoidable with a few extra
layers, and I can't say it enough: it is undeniably
worth it to gear up. Everything I have gone through
this past year will not be in vain if my testimony is
enough to save someone's skin.
End.
So…. What do you think? It can certainly be said
that riding a motorcycle can be an extremely
enjoyable experience. However, one must
remember to use safety precautions, and WEAR
YOUR GEAR! Remember the acronym, ATGATT
which stands for "All The Gear, All The Time" (see
previous issue).
This article is meant to remind everyone of the
importance of wearing your gear and being safe so
what are the lessons learned:
1. ATGATT
2. Don’t ride in a circumstance where you are not
being looked after (100%);
3. Be aware of what is going on around you,
including what is happening to your pillion;
4. Prepare (visualise, research, recite, practice, and
plan) [for everything],
5. Learn from your mistakes (and near miss/
incidents). Age/maturity have a significant hand
in this.
6.
In summary from my earlier proposition ‘Was this
good management or good luck or something in
between?’…. I am continually reminded (positively
and negatively) that prior planning and preparation
prevent poor performance and that luck as seen
by someone else, is usually the result of your hard
work and plenty of practice (or lack of).
So get out there and practice (RIDE) safely.
Page 18
CHOG—RUNS & EVENT S
Autumn and spring have perfect temperatures to
lure you outside to enjoy the beauty of spring
Tumut Overnighter
blossom or autumn foliage. Winter sees the higher
country transformed into a snow-clad wonderland
On the 30th of November a group of 16 riders
headed into the Snowy Mountains for a scenic ride while in summer the rivers and the large expanse
of Blowering Dam offer a host of recreational
through the breath-taking Snowy mountains and
then on to stay overnight in the picturesque town activities. The region has something for everyone:
the untouched wild beauty of Kosciuszko National
of Tumut.
Tumut lies at the foothills of the Snowy Mountains Park, crystal clear streams and rivers, towering
mountains, lush green valleys, goldmining history,
and the Riverina, the Tumut region is an area of
the mighty Snowy Mountains Scheme, fresh crisp
spectacular natural beauty with four distinct
seasons each with its own charm which define the apples, clean air and tranquillity or adventure.
region.
Ride into the Snowy Mountains
Page 19
Tumut Overnighter continued…...
consequence does produce beautiful mountain
trout, that have an amazing flavour.
It was a beautiful day; however it was a little crisp,
but a great day for riding.
Finally we pulled up at Cabramurra the highest
town in Australia at a height of 1,488m for a well
Our first stop was Cooma at PD Murphy’s in the
earned rest and lunch break. It was great to relax,
main street for morning tea and a rest before
sit and chat to others over lunch.
heading further With everyone fed and watered it was time to head
into the
back down the mountain towards Tumbarumba.
mountains. Here
we meet up with The next section of road we thought no one had
David Rolfe who travelled before, but yes we were wrong, of course.
joined us for the
ride through the Paul and Pete had stumbled across it on their way
mountains.
back from the 110th celebrations in Victoria last
year. However most had not travelled the road
Some went for before and said that they really enjoyed the ride
the extra jumper down the mountain which takes you past ‘Tumut 2’
at this point as it power station and some of the most beautiful
was a little cool scenery that you could ever want to see.
and you never
quite know what The streams and rivers are so clear that you can
the mountains
see the fish swimming in them, that’s if you have
are going to
the time to look.
serve up to you,
it is not that
unusual to have three (3) seasons in one day, it
can be very unpredictable and yes I have had a
white Christmas when living in Adaminaby as a kid.
Once everyone was set and ready to go we hit the
road heading towards Adaminaby and the Big
Trout, passing by but not stopping, as our
destination was Cabramurra for lunch. We snaked
our way over the amazing windy mountain roads to
Kiandra were we stopped for a short time checking
out the scenery and having a bit of a chat.
On our way again to our lunch destination of
Cabramurra, passing Mt Selwyn ski fields and
Three Mile Dam. As I come out of the mountains I
remember a time many years ago when the dam
was frozen over. I don’t think that occurs often,
maybe the edges freeze, but not the whole dam.
Another bit of history in regards to the dam that
may be of interest to some is that the dam was
built by the Chinese in 1882 -1883 for gold
mining. It is also the highest fishable dam in
Australia, at a height of 1,460m ASL and as a
Next stop was Tumbarumba but only for a quick
fuel stop and from here it was on through to
Batlow with its many fruit trees scattered around
its hills, many of them covered in netting, which
can give the effect of snow lying on the ground.
Way too early for a crispy apple picked fresh from
the tree, maybe next time.
Leaving the hills of Batlow we rode on towards the
Tumut Valley with its green pastures and timber
mills.
Page 20
Tumut Overnighter continued…...
Arriving in Tumut we again fuelled up in
preparation for the next days ride as we were not
going to be able to get fuel conveniently the next
day as we were not travelling in the direction that
we would normally leave the town.
heading into Coolac and onto that dreaded thing
called a ‘highway’. It was very windy once we hit
the highway, and I think everyone missed those
By this stage everyone was looking forward to that
well earned drink and rest and we all pointed our
wheels to the motel. Once everyone was checked
in we spent some time chatting about the day over
a drink before walking to the Commercial Hotel for
a few more refreshments before dinner.
As a group we strolled back to the Motel for dinner
which involved us rearranging part of their dining
room so that we were all able to sit together. I
don’t think I have been anywhere that this has not
occurred so that we can all eat together [which is
also a great feature of our CHOG camaraderie and
friendship].
What a deal, buy your main course and receive
entrée and dessert free. As always it was an
enjoyable and relaxing evening, pretty loud at
times, just as well we were seated in a room to the
side away from other diners. After dinner some
went off to their rooms while others spent more
time talking and possibly solving the problems of
the world.
Morning came, yes it always comes to fast I think.
Time for breakfast and then pack for the trip
home. After thanking the Motel owners for their
hospitality and asking if they would take a group
photo for us we then set off on our journey home.
We stopped not far out of Tumut for a photo
opportunity with some Bison that are being breed
on a property there. Isn't it funny how things
happen. One of the owners stopped and asked if
we wanted to go and have a looked at a newly
born foal just down the paddock, she also took a
group photo for us with the Bison in the
background.
We then moved on passing through properties and
also the small township of Brungle following the
river for quite awhile before crossing it and
interesting back roads and being tucked in behind
the hills away from the wind.
Next stop Bookham for a coffee and something to
eat and yes another sit around and a chat; it was
hard to get motivated for many at this point to hit
that windy highway for the final leg home and the
end of a journey.
At this point we said goodbye to everyone as we
were not far from home. Rob Hamilton then took
over and guided everyone to Murrumbateman
where the ride officially finished.
I would like to say thankyou to everyone for coming
along and creating a great weekend it is wonderful
seeing so many wanting to explore the beautiful
mountains that are only a stone’s throw away from
us in Canberra. I would also like to thank Rob
Hamilton for being the rear road captain for the
ride; it makes the job a little easier knowing that
you have someone with Rob’s experience sitting
behind everyone. Once again thank you all for an
amazing weekend and I hope to see you all on a
ride again in the not too distant future.
Wayne Walker
Road Captain
Live to Ride, Ride to Live
KNOW YOUR CLUB MATES — BILL STEEN
Bill Steen—Know your Club mates continued….
I joined CHOG after my wife was talking to a work
colleague [Raiser] who praised it. I was up for it
and I’ve enjoyed it immensely ever since.
From the first ride with CHOG I felt welcomed, and
riding with like-minded people and enjoying the
camaraderie of the group has been exceptional.
I’m looking forward to many more rides and to get
involved in the social side of CHOG as well.
Bill Steen.
Ed. To give you more insight into Bill and his riding
see the ‘Riding in Dubai ’ NON-HOG article later in
this edition.
Shots from the NZ Rally (2013)
Here are some more great memories from the
NZ 2013 Rally held in Auckland.
Page 21
HOG
EVENT S
Shots from the NSW State Rally
(2013)
Page 22
Page 23
Its not only about style on a bike!
Page 24
HOG
Page 25
EVENT S
HOG Rally's & your biking Calendar
HOG motorbike RALLIES are an intrinsic and valued part of the HOG experience. To be part of the experience
you need to be a member of HOG International or the guest of a HOG member. (only one guest per member).
Every year Harley Davidson Australia hosts a National Rally. This rally is usually in the last 3 months of each
year. Across the Tasman Sea in New Zealand, Harley Davidson New Zealand holds an annual rally, usually in
February. In addition to these National rally’s, each states have a state rally hosted by a nominated HOG
chapter in that state; interstate riders are always very welcome.
It is your responsibility to register for a rally and to arrange your own accommodation however please see a
Committee member for any assistance or questions you may have. There are plenty of members who have
attended numerous of these over the years and we are more than willing to get you started.
Usually there is a wide range of accommodation catered for from camping and sometimes cabin
accommodation at the rally site all supported by a wide range of accommodation within close proximity. Details
on travel times and best routes, quickest routes and chapter group rides can also be discussed with your
committee member.
We actively encourage you to attend a national rally early on in your club experience. These are fantastic events
and catapult you into the better of the club experiences right from the start.
If there is an official Canberra Chapter ride to and from a specific Rally more information can be obtained from
the Activities Officer. Email activities@chog.org.au or view the CHOG noticeboard at ROBBO’s
HOG
Page 26
EVENT S
23rd
Australian
National
Cairns — North Queensland
2-4 May 2014
The venue will be at the Cairns Showground over the first weekend in May 2014.
Cairns is the perfect location with unlimited sunshine, beautiful coastal roads, the exceptional coral
reef and the magically rainforest right at its door steps.
Tropical North Queensland has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the most beautiful and diverse localities to visit in the world.
What an amazing destination for our 23rd Australian National HOG Rally.
Start planning your trip now for what should be a once in a life time ride.
Camping will be available on site.
HOG
Page 27
EVENT S
V I C T O R I A S TA T E R A L LY
Mildura— 7 to 10 March 2014
Hosted by Mallee Chapter VIC
‘The Boys & Girls From the Bush’
Check out the details on the HOG Mallee Chapters
website at http://hog.quick-fix.com.au/
Where Irymple Leisure Centre, Karadoc Avenue, Irymple
VIC.
Friday night entertainment:
Grab Ya Cat
Saturday night entertainment:
Funk
Contact Us on the web or ask for directions from:
Director - Keith Sharman
0419 521140
malleehogdirector@gmail.com
Assistant Director— Leonie Stanborough
0477 170074 malleehogassdirector@gmail.com
Secretary — Linda Sauer
0437 325857 malleehogsecretary@gmail.com
HOG
Page 28
EVENT S
Checkout the ‘news’ from HD
Have you had a good read of the latest Australia/
NZ HOG magazine (Issue 017 Summer 2013)?
The key article is clearly the NEW HOG Logo (right)
which is written up on page 10.
One of the most enlightening articles for me was
the ‘Two Countries, one chapter’ article on page
015. As a new member to HOG I am still very much
on the learning curve in respect of how things work
and particularly the global interactions. This article
is a great read, along with Bill Steens trip report
(Riding in Dubai) and certainly gave me some
ideas on what I might be able to achieve on my
next trip.
SAFTEY is a topic which should never be far from
our thoughts in preparing and undertaking a ride.
This HOG issue has some great points in respect of
‘LANE Management’ on pages 018-019 and
although this may not be new to you are worthy of
a brush up and if nothing else will provide us with Who above has this tattoo? Sure is a
a ‘common’ language to communicate with in this commitment.
regard.
Are you going to the VICTORIAN STATE Rally in
Mildura (7-10 March 2014). See page 25 of our
issue). The HOG Summer issue pages 22– 31 has
a great write up on the Mildura area and some
fantastic sights to see.
Have you heard of Herbert DasSilva—
Queenslander and our 900,000 km (500,000
mile)) man. Read about him and his great Harley
passion on page 058.
SAFE RIDING FROM ROBBO’s
NON-HOG
Page 29
EVENT S
Riding in the UAE
Part 1
Riding in the United Arab Emirates – Part 1
In October 2014 my wife, Wendy, and I stopped
over in Dubai on our way to Europe for a holiday.
I had only ever transited through Dubai before and
it would be Wendy’s first visit. We decided a few
days would give us time to see the sights so one of
the first things I did was lookup Harley tours of the
United Arab Emirates [UAE] to see what was on
offer.
We found a company who operated out of Dubai
called Prestige Motorcycle Tours & Rentals [http://
www.dubaimotorcycletours.com/default.aspx,
Email: info@dubaimotorcycletours.com].
around October through to May. January &
February tend to be the cooler months with daily
temperatures around 24 degrees Celsius.
I’d allocated two days for riding in the UAE and had
been in contact with Serge prior to my visit. Serge
had suggested a mixture of tours to try and show
me as much as possible.
Serge documents virtually your entire ride via video
and photos. He had a GoPro mounted to his bike, a
hand held video camera and a digital camera in
his shirt pocket. So as you were riding along Serge
would be videoing your ride and at different times
“stage” some shots.
At the end of each days ride he’d present you with
all the footage and digital photos on a USB for you
to keep. I also took my GoPro and recorded both
days.
Prestige Motorcycle Tours & Rentals is run by
Serge Brouillet, who is an amazing tour guide and
will make your tour one to remember. Serge has
over 17 motorcycles to choose from including
Sportsters, Dyna Super Glide, Heritage, Road King,
Rocker, Night Rod, and Ultra Classic. Plus he also
has a couple of BMW and Goldwing’s in his stable
of rentals.
The company has a range of tours on offer
including customised tours, several one-day rides
through to 3, 7 and 10 day Desert & Beach tours
around the UAE. On the longer tours, Prestige
provides a support vehicle, which is a fully
equipped mobile home. The support vehicle is
great and gives flexibility for the pillion as to when
and how long they wish to ride plus the vehicle
transports your entire luggage. In some instances,
the mobile home will take a short cut to a
designated stop and have a BBQ, drinks etc. ready
for the riders, a great-added feature for touring.
Day One: I took a taxi, which are cheap in Dubai,
out to Serge’s office located just on the outskirts of
Dubai and conveniently situated near one of the
major highways. This in my opinion is a good
location, as you do not have to fight your way
through peak hour traffic on a bike just to get out
of Dubai.
Like most international tours, you need to provide
your own riding gear, however they do have a
range of helmets you can use, mostly half and
I could have chosen any bike but decided I’d go
three quarter open face helmets. Due to the
with what I ride at home, and picked a Road King
extreme heat conditions during summer, the UAE
with beach bar handlebars.
tends to have a “riding season”, which commences
NON-HOG
Page 30
EVENT S
Riding in the UAE— Part 1 continued….
On this particular stretch of road, we stopped at a
small compound where you had the opportunity to
We headed out around 8:30am onto the freeway, ride a camel and further down the road we passed
which has a speed limit of 120 kph and speed
two Arabic men leading a small herd of camels.
cameras every 2 kilometres! I was advised that
There was also
the speed cameras are set to trigger at 141 kph so several camel
no dramas on the day. The original speed limit was racing farms along
160 km/p and only changes recently [This caters the way.
for some very rich and very powerful cars on the
road].
The highway started out around 4 lanes with the
fast moving traffic in the far left hand lane. Nearly
everyone was driving to just under the speed
camera trigger speed of 141 km/p. The landscape
was mainly sand dunes fenced off from the
highway with the odd factory, commercial area or
housing estate. The highways in UAE are in
exceptionally good condition and the traffic was a
mixture of heavy vehicles, Maserati, Porsche,
Lamborghini, Mercedes, and the odd American
muscle car!
Caution— ‘Camel
crossing”
The back roads
were exceptional,
you felt as if you
were out in the
middle of nowhere
yet if you came
Most drivers love Harleys and you would frequently across an
intersection, it
have a Maserati or some type of luxury car pull
would be either a
alongside you on the highway and give you a
large roundabout
thumbs up or take your photo!
or an elaborate overpass, something you’d never
see in Australia!
We rode along the highway towards Hatta before
turning off onto a secondary road, which had
After travelling along this back road for a while we
hardly any traffic on it. The landscape slowly
then turned onto a major highway and started
changed, although we were still in the desert the
heading towards Fujairah on the east coast of the
road was no longer fenced off. In addition, you
UAE.
had to watch the road and corners in case there
were sand drifts. Not that it was a real problem,
just something we had to be aware of.
“On a dark desert highway…” , Cool wind in my hair,”
Camel farm in the background of the open desert
NON-HOG
Page 31
EVENT S
The landscape changed dramatically as we rode
towards the coast. We were heading out of the
The Hajar Mountains (Arabic: )‎‫ جبال الحجر‬Arabic for stone
mountains) eastern United Arab Emirates and north eastern
Oman are the highest mountain range in the eastern Arabian peninsula. They separate the low coastal plain from the
high desert plateau, and lie 50–100 km inland from the Gulf
of Oman coast.
desert and into a more rocky and hilly terrain. It
was quite a contrast to the sand dunes.
We rode into Fujairah and Serge took me to view
the local Mosque, which was quite spectacular. We
also took the opportunity to rehydrate as the
ambient temperature had started to rise
substantially as the day wore on.
negotiated various
road works.
Serge took this photo of
his temperature gauge
as this was
unseasonably hot for
October.
Notwithstanding the temperature the ride itself
was still interesting as we passed through towns
and the changing landscape riding up into the
Hajar Mountains as we left the coast and started
heading west back towards Dubai and made our
way to our first afternoon stop at Masafi.
The photo (above) doesn’t do justice
to the actual size of the Mosque.
After leaving the Mosque and refuelling, we made
our way along the coastline to our lunch stop at
A welcome (non-alcoholic) drink,
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa situated on Al Aqah
looking back over Masafi
Beach, which by the way was full of Russian
tourists. The resort was right on the coast with a
Masafi, in the region/area of Fujairah, is an
several large swimming pools all looked inviting,
interesting town with lots of local produce markets
as the ambient temperature had now reached over
along the roadside. The town is identified as a
44 degrees Celsius [112 degrees F]!
‘very small town’ and the region only boasting
125,000 people.
After cooling off in the air-conditioned restaurant,
we started our afternoon trek along the coastline
From Masafi the landscape slowly changed from
passing through many large and small towns. Like
the hilly terrain back to sand dunes as we kept
most of the UAE, there is a lot of construction
heading west. The hills around Masafi are quite
going on including many of the east coast roads,
spectacular and a contrast to the sand dunes.
so the riding at this point slowed down as we
NON-HOG
Page 32
EVENT S
Fujairah mountain view
A smile says it all, what a great days ride
We made a few drink and fuel stops as we rode
along the major highways back towards Serge’s
office. This entailed some ‘filtering, which is legal
in Dubai, through peak hour traffic arriving back at
our starting point around 6:30pm.
We’d covered just over 420 km and made
numerous stops for photos, etc.
It was a great days riding and I’d highly
recommend it to anyone on their way to Europe,
especially now QANTAS fly to Europe via Dubai.
Serge and his team can customise a tour to meet
your needs.
Fujairah Nature
Bill Steen
CHOG Member
Ed. Remember this is an foreign country and road
rules and the law (Islamic) , insurance and
protection of your ‘rights’ are not necessarily the
same as in Australia. Check out what is
appropriate for you and carry appropriate travel
insurance. As always exhibit the necessary
sensitivities and respect for your host country and
their culture.
A quick stop to rehydrate
I have lived in Qatar and flown with their Air Force
from Doha and around the Gulf and can
thoroughly recommend the countryside and its
history including that of the local people. Be aware
that it can get ‘hot’ (and humid) as Bill says.
TBA
Tasmania Rally
Friday to Sunday
Monday
Day
Saturday
Sunday
Tuesday
Thursday
Sunday
Tuesday
Sunday
Saturday
Sunday
Day
Saturday
Sunday
Tuesday
31-Jan-2nd Feb
27-Jan-14
February 14
01-Feb-14
02-Feb-14
04-Feb-14
06-Feb-14
09-Feb-14
11-Feb-14
16-Feb-14
22-Feb-14
23-Feb-14
March-14
01-Mar-14
02-Mar-14
04-Mar-14
06-Mar-14
Robbos
Robbo's
Robbo's
Victoria State Rally - Mildura
Friday to Monday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Sunday
Saturday
Sunday
Saturday
Sunday
7-10 Mar-14
08-Mar-14
09-Mar-14
10-Mar-14
16-Mar-14
22-Mar-14
23-Mar-14
29-Mar-14
30-Mar-14
Robbo's
Robbo's
Robbo's
Robbo's
Robbo's
Long day ride to Tintaldra and back
Woods Reserve - camp overnight
Wyangala Dam -Lunch Ride
LOH Overnighter with Sydney
LOH Overnighter with Sydney
Canberra Day ACT Public Holiday
Robbo's
Monthly Mingle - all members welcome
Robbo's
Bathurst Overnighter
Thursday
Robbo's
Bathurst Overnighter
Hellinic Club Woden
Robbo's
LOH Ride - Goulburn
CHOG Brains Trust Trivia Night
Hellinic Club Woden
CHOG Brains Trust Trivia Night
Robbo's
Robbo's
Mulit Cultural Festival Canberra Display
Gunghalin
Hellenic Club Woden
Monthly Mingle - all members welcome
New Members/Meet the Members Run
Breakfast bbq from 10.00am (Gold coin donation)
Chapter Practice Games Day
Robbo's
Twilight ride
Meeting Place
Dinner 6pm
Meeting 7pm
TBA
Robbo's
Run/Activity
Depart 6.30pm
Robbo's
New Members/Meet the Members Run
Breakfast bbq from 10.00am (Gold coin donation)
Cancer Convoy for Kids
Kiwi
Dinner 6.00pm
Trivia 7.00pm
MeetDinner 6pm
ing 7pm
Leaving Thursday 6th Robbos - TBA time
DEPART 8.30am
TBA
Marie Sally and Helen
Wayne Walker
Emu and Hammer
Depart 10.00 am
Depart 8.30am
Olaf
TBA
Marie
Wayne and Lisa
Kiwi
BBQ- Ron and Robbo
Ride-Arlo and Bod
Marie
Ride Contact
Open
Open
Open
Open
Open
Closed
Closed
Open
Open
Closed
Type
Open
Open
Marie and Kiwi
Wayne Walker
Open
Open
Closed
Open
Open
Closed
Type
Open
Open
Type
Kiwi
Arlo
Hammer
Kiwi
BBQ- Arlo and Bod
Ride- Kiwi and Marie
Kiwi
Ride Contact
TBA
BBQ from 10.00am
Ride 11.00am
TBA
Time
Depart 8.30am
Dinner 6.00pm
Trivia 7.00pm
Depart 10.00 am
BBQ from 10.00am
Ride 11.00am
Depart 9.00am
Meeting Place
Time
TBA
Kiwi
Pete
Depart 6.30pm
TBA
Ride Contact
Time
Run/Activity
Australia Day Holiday
Robbo's
Escort Ride for Kiwi's sons wedding
Sunday
26-Jan-14
Meeting Place
Robbo's
Tuesday
21-Jan-14
Run/Activity
Twilight
Day
January 14
Page 33
CHO G CAL ENDAR
NON-HOG
EVENT S
Ride over the highest Pass in the
World
~Open Event~
This trip is now ON HOLD —until around 2016 as
the roads need to be repaired through the pass
after the latest monsoon. They are simply nonexistent.
Where: Asia / Indian Subcontinent
Duration: 16-18 (14 days riding approx.)
- note that our particular trip is being organised
specifically for me and Zeman and is not on the
website.
Cheers
Olaf (Olly).
Page 34
CHO G CAL ENDAR
A reminder about Calendar Events
The dates and times in the following table
are subject to change as determined by
the weather, availability of nominated
members, competing events, etc.
For the latest and most up to date
information please see the Weekly update
of get an updated version of the
spreadsheet (Excel).
See Next Page for calendar of events.
Remember there is MORE HAPPENING than
recorded here. See the H-D Australia website and
newsletter for national and international events.
Contact Olaf if you would like to join him on this
amazing adventure.
Advertise your
FOR SALE
…………
here
…………….
cheap and effective
rates.
This Newsletter is published every 2 months. To
get the latest news and updates on the most
recent changes and details then look for the
weekly ‘electronic update’. Get on the mailing
list. See your Activities Officer (Arlo).
Page 35
A DVERTISING
Advertise your business, for sale items etc…
………………………….here…………………………………
Cheap and effective rates.
HARLEY / CHOG MERCHANDISE
CHOG Tee shirt.
GET YOUR CHOG Club T-SHIRTS NOW.
GROUP PHOTOGRAPHS WILL REALLY STAND OUT.
Short Sleeve...$25.00
Long Sleeve...$35.00
THEY ARE ALSO GREAT ‘SWAPS’ IF TRAVELLING AWAY FROM HOME.
Proudly sponsored by
remember they are UNIQUE
and can only be purchased from our club.
Robbo’s Motorcycles
281 Canberra Ave, Fyshwick,
ACT 2609
Australia
P: 02 6280 6939
harleysales@robboshd.com.au
HOG CHAPTER 9060
Page 36
Canberra Harley Owners Group (CHOG)
Offer our sincere thanks to
NATIONAL MAILING AND MARKETING
for their contribution to the operation of our club and their continued
support in the printing of this newsletter.
CHOG members can assist NMM by placing your business
with them as appropriate.
NATIONAL MAILING & MARKETING
11 TRALEE STREET
Hume ACT 2620
Phone: (02) 6269 1000
Fax: (02) 6260 2770
Web: www.nationalmailing.com.au
For all your fulfilment, database management, conference satchel assembly,
telemarketing, offset printing, laser printing including colour, envelope and packaging
supply, pick and pack, warehousing and distribution services.
www.nationalmailing.com.au

Nov - Dec - Canberra Chapter

Transcription

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