THE CAIRNS DGR

By Klaus and Kerry Member # 4515

“The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride is already an institution in Australia, and not only on these shores but worldwide. The website states: “The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride unites classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders from all over the world to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was founded in Sydney, Australia, by Mark Hawwa. It was inspired by a photo of TV Show Mad Men’s Don Draper astride a classic bike and wearing his finest suit. Mark decided a themed ride would be a great way of connecting niche motorcycle enthusiasts and communities while raising funds to support the men in our lives.” one yet with 100 riders registered (more joined along the way) and over $21000 raised in Cairns.

With our trusted GSA still in self-imposed “hibernation” in Brissie, we saddled up our Japanese steed and took the Kwaka (Versys 1000 SE) on the DGR. Mind you, she does not really fall into any of the suggested DGR categories of vintage or classic bikes, but then again, the old Z1000 engine must definitely rate as one of the greatest “classic” engines ever built. Who could argue with that?

This fantastic initiative raised over US$ 37.5 million since 2012 with some 340,000 riders taking part in rides in 121 countries in the world. Taking part in Cairns on Sunday 21 May we had an awesome day starting the day at one of the major sponsors (Wayne Leonard Motorcycles) with over 75 bikes in attendance adorned by some dapper looking gentlefolk. Our ride took us out to Ellis Beach Bar & Grill via the Esplanade in Cairns and ended up at Macalister’s Bike Day Out to join their highly popular bike show. As per the organisers, this year was by far the best

The Cairns DGR saw an impressive diversity of makes and models, from classic European bikes to the usual American brands, of course all sorts of Japanese variations of the Big Four of Nippon. Four-strokes dominated but there were a few interesting two-strokes doing their bit to contribute to CO2 emissions (as they do….). BMWs were present, too, mainly a couple of welltravelled R 100 GS, but beautifully maintained and looked after by their fastidious owners.

We are lucky in Cairns, the May weather is just perfect for riding. Nice, dry and warm, not having to worry about carrying rain or cold weather gear makes a big difference.

Despite the awesome options of riding up &