First things first, URL for bike ride on Highway 1 now added, see day 9...
I'm immediately struck again by 2 things - the friendliness if the people and just how bright this country is... It's like moving from watching standard definition TV to high definition, really, is that noticeable for me.
Randal is a star! Right nice guy taking all the time needed to make me welcome and set up the bike. A nice cuppa, said morning to his family, and after a review of the map to make sure the main bits were covered then points me in the right direction and away we go. Thanks Randal!
Took 5 minutes to gel with the Tenere but all is now good and set up as I like it. Whilst the suspension on a BMW GS1200 feels a little softer / compliant, the Ten is a hoot in the corners, very sure footed. And with a sweet note from the exhaust too. So the first 200 or so miles now done in new Zealand.
Even with the sleep on the aircraft I was still blasted and about halfway into the journey had to stop in a layby and have a lay down and a bit of shut eye. Would have looked like a motorcycle accident if it wasn't for the fact the bike was up and on the side stand, A gaggle on cyclists went by and somewhere in the distance I heard a "looks like you've got the right idea fella" ring out. Oh those poor weary cyclists. Thank God again for four stroke engines, petrol and a twist grip on a right hand bar end.
That did the trick for the rest of the ride. Scenery is stunning. Almosty garden like in all directions (no not my garden which more resembles a small dead section of rain forest). Thought the roads in the USA were fun did I? Well have a look at these buggers. See: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMY6x9jZMrg for what was a great first day in the saddle..
Here is a version with no music in case blocked for you : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UQpqO4RRfs
Started this blog at 5am today after at least 9hrs sleep so running a day behind with updates (today is day 12). Hope to catch up at the end of the day today, with a small beer and a laptop on the table at the next destination, some 250 miles away which includes a jaunt to the very top of New Zealand (Cape Reinga)
It's now 7.30 am. the clouds are clearing and the Sun is coming out Baby!
Speak soon
Wayne, I was looking forward to seeing some New Zealand footage but the video comes up marked Private.
ReplyDeleteIncidentally, I had two review sessions with Eric on Tuesday and passed the on-the-water tests. We waited most of the day for more than a breeze and then got about one hour of glorious wind in the afternoon which was enough to do the "Bob overboard" parts. I took the written tests that evening and you may now call me "Skipper". :)
Enjoy the rest of your vacation! It was great getting to meet you. Look me up if you get back to the Bay Area.
M