NEWS @ NENE
WINTER 2012
Nene V alley Chapter
Chapter No. 9946
Director Martin Dickinson ‘So Bad’ MartinPDickinson@aol.com 07740 871983
Assistant Director Dave Burridge ‘Brumbo’ brumbo@brumbo.com 07768 166490
Secretary Maria Lapsley membership@ nenevalleyhog.co.uk 07984 122581
Treasurer John Nicholas johnnickretuired@gmail.com 07808 648575
Editor Chris Lapsley ‘Slow Hand’ nenevalleyeditor@ btinternet.com 07709 205571
Webmaster ‘Road King' Scot Haynes roadkingscot@o2.co.uk 07970 421716
Safety Officer ‘The Reverand’ Steve Harris steve@harris 1509.freeserve.co.uk 07779 877131
Activities Officer Dave Burridge ‘Brumbo’ brumbo@brumbo.com 07768 166490
Head Road Captain Mike ‘Mikey’ Ivers mike@maivers7.freesere.co.uk 07950 947681
Merchandising Officers Mike & Jacqui Wakelin mikewakelin@fsmail.net 07989 975444
Ladies of Harley Officer Shani Elms ‘Angel’ chris4861@sky.com 07989 143783
Historian Vacant Position
Photographer Vacant Position
DIRECTORS DRIBBLE
Winter 2012
Looking outside it looks like winter is upon us. This is normally the time of year where people are looking at what improvements can be made to their trusty steed ready for next year’s riding season. It’s always good to see the cosmetic changes plus those that have purchased new bikes during the winter on our first official ride in 2013, which is always the memorial ride to remember those Club Members that are no longer with us. Along with this it is time to start looking forward to trips and rides that I’m sure a number of you have already, or are in the process of planning. I recently attended the Road Captains meeting and it was a pleasure to see the number of rides that are already planned and consideration being given to the different requests that have come in for rides – it looks like 2013 will be another memorable year riding with the club, as well as all the other events in the calendar. On the front page of the website there are a number of trips that are something new or things that haven’t been done for a number of years: Nene Valley Old School Rally – tickets are on sale now so get them early to save any disappointment as the numbers will be restricted in 2013 as it is a new venue. Dragon & Dyke tour – closing date for this was 1 st December so I don’t know if there are any places left.
The beginning of March will again see the Sycamore Custom Bike Show and over the years members of the Chapter have always come away with trophies. They also have a pretty good do on the Saturday night if anyone is thinking about going along. As I said earlier there is an awful lot planned for next year so keep an eye on the website and start pencilling those dates in. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Xmas and a great New Year and let’s make 2013 another classic
Devon Coast ride closing date for this was 2nd December so I don’t know if there are any places left. Martin Ride to the ‘Motorcycle ride in day’ at Beaulieu Motor Museum The organisers of these events (all overnighters) have put an awful lot of work in planning and sourcing reasonable hotels and B & B’s. There are also a large number of Rallies that accommodate those that enjoy camping, with some also having accommodation, so everyone is catered for. It would be great to be able to do all the events but work for some of us gets in the way. I would dearly like to start planning events and rides I would like to attend but yet again my job role has changed so until I get my new shift pattern I will just have to wait and see which ones are available. One for me that is already booked is a 2 week trip down to Faker See in September with 16 other bikes. I am really looking forward to doing the Stelvio Pass in Italy at last. If you haven’t purchased your Award Night tickets on the 11th January yet time is running out, so get in touch with Brumbo and get them bought. In January I will be attending the Directors meeting once again and will see if there is any news on the horizon about a dealership opening in the area, along with any other news that HOG may have for us.
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Winter 2012
Editor’s View Point Two months since the last mag and …. well… it’s all over. We have done South Africa. While you guys shivered in winter temperatures we were riding in tee shirts & waistcoats … well some of the time. Due to little other content coming in this quarters N@N is pretty much dedicated to the South African Cape. Check out the articles and photos and also the video on the website forum. Madam Sec. & I only returned on 10th November after an extra 5 days of chilling in the sun and looking up Maria’s old haunts in Grahamstown where she went to University (many moons ago!). It was a shock to the system to get up on Sunday 11th and scrap the ice off the car so I could get Vixen out for the Remembrance Sunday ride…. and even worse setting off in 1 Deg C temperature. On that note the Remembrance Ride was excellent – well attended (including a Triumph rider who joined the wrong ride out from Jack’s), nice sunny day, full respect by all attending the service in Bletchley, some very interested public taking pics of the bikes and talking to us all; and all capped off by BECKY’S BAPS. Warm, moist filling – with bite if you added mustard I am talking about the filled rolls here ! Great day and big thanks to Becky, Mikey & Kate plus Neil & the crew for the ride. Now – what’s happening next year. Well, it so happens the RCs got together, drank some beers, had a chat – and Viola – check out the new – preliminary calendar on the back page. Here’s a review of some of the highlights from South Africa : The view from the top of Table Mountain; ‘Groundhog’ Wakelin is an exhibitionist (see the vid). Jan “I want a man” Harter on meeting the owner of the Thorntree guest house – “are you married” & “where is your room”. John & Nic’s (Peak Riders) all too close association with a gun running weapons nut with a diamond smuggling side line! Sadiq (our first driver) taking a 20 foot dive off his balcony at midnight (on the 3rd night) – we looked after our replacement driver Naasier from then on – well someone had to carry our suitcases. Driving in an open jeep at sunset into a pride of 9 Lions in the middle of a game reserve who then surrounded the jeep !!! Madam Sec & I getting to stroke lions (after the tour ended); drinking one hotel dry of Gin; Gonzo – say no more! but he spent a lot of time stuffed down Anne Baileys cleavage; Pi**ing off the Afrikaners in the smart restaurants we took over; cheap booze & great food; Mike ‘the Bike’ & Patti ‘the Brat’ – what can you say about our guides – the nicest, friendliest, guys you could wish for; (and thanks to Mike Hogan for the front cover photos) and finally the African scenery – Amazing !! Anyone wishing to tour SA or Namibia – go straight to Mike Hogan. Cut out the middle men and get a tailored tour to suit. He has his own company, bikes & team. Checkout Rolling Thunder website (still to come) and email him on : pattmike@mweb.co.za Since we got back Ground Hog (Bush Hog) Wakelin has been driving
the Coca Cola lorry around the country on an advertising stint – you know like the ad on the tele. Finally – got this from recent members Robert & Jeanne Fix (Americans). “Hey Chris, Just checking in and also wanted to share pics of latest ride. Got a 2003 FLHPI Road King. This was a Florida State Police bike. Need to make adjustments for me and Jeanne, but really pleased with the find. Hope you all survived the ”summer”, though it looks like, from pictures we’ve seen, that the weather Gods were happy once again for the Ride to the Wall. Wish we could have been there. As for Texas, I would highly recommend it. Temperature today was 85’F. Still getting used to wearing shorts and flip flops outside instead of just in the house. Was definitely overdressed on arrival. The Dallas Cowboys stadium is 20 minutes away and just across the street from the Texas Rangers baseball park. Texas Harley Davidson, is 5 minutes from the house. Takes a while to get to open road, but once you get there, it’s long and straight. The Hill country which is pretty much south of Waco and stretching down to San Antonio is the place to ride, with some great towns and even better eateries. How I have lost weight I will never know with all the Mexican, Tex Mex, and assorted other eateries surrounding us. Still searching for the best Texas fried steak, but haven’t found a bad one either. Of course there is the longstanding Whataburger, a Texas tradition when it comes to the fast food burger. So “Hey There’s” to all. The door is always open. Hear from you soon. Rob and Jeanne Fix
Chris Lapsley, “Slow Hand” Editor Last date for contributions to the March Edition :
END FEBRUARY 2013 email :- nenevalleyeditor@btinternet.com or phone me on 07709 205571 or 01455 450463
Nene Valley HOG Chapter (Editor) PO Box 9277 LEICESTER LE9 OBT
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Mikey’s Natter
Winter 2012
Wow it’s the end of the season and I still have got lots to write about. Since writing last month’s Natter some of you guys have been to Brightona, the following weekend myself and Mike Wakelin led a ride to Hoggin the Bridge much to the wives disgust as we were flying to South Africa the next day; then it came the big one 3000k of the most amazing riding in an amazing country with great people. What more could you ask for. I will not bang on about it as I know it will be elsewhere in the mag. Straight back from SA and in the same week we had the Remembrance Day ride, a day truly to remember for a triumph rider also who followed us all by mistake. Thanks to Neil for leading a great ride, where myself and Carole Witt laid a wreath on behalf of the chapter. Thanks also to Becky and Kate for feeding us their baps and crackling. I have booked them for next year (hehe!!!!). We have also been asked by the Royal British Legion to lead the procession next year. It may surprise you but for such a small cenotaph it does attract 200300 people. A date for your diary next year. The following Monday I went to Oxford HQ and helped in the filming of some HOG training videos ensuring Nene Valley is on the map. This was really good to be involved in as it will be used to help train future road captains from all chapters. The following weekend a few of us went out for the first draft of our rally ride out and we had a guy (customer) join us for the ride who will be joining the chapter this month. The weather is so unpredictable that my bike never sleeps unless there is ice out there; we hope to get out as much as possible over the winter. Saying that, I was minding my own business last Thursday, doing the shopping when a message came over the tannoy “will Michael Ivers please come to customer services.” What now I thought… well my boss introduced me to a 74 year old woman who’s life ambition had been to go on a Harley since she had spent 2 days on Route 66 on a coach. I could feel myself getting roped in here and said I could take her out someday, she said can we go now. I was shopping, she was keen and it was blowing a gale and only 1. 5 hours of daylight left but her face was a picture and she was keen as mustard So off I went to get the bike and a spare lid (check the piccies out below). You can imagine what Becks said when she saw her on her bike and I hadn’t done the shopping! It was worth it though as she was so made up.
We have also just had our Road Captains meeting with 2 main purposes; to review the year so we build on feedback etc. to ensure 2013 is in line with member’s needs; and to also do a great job of planning 2013. I thought you would be interested to know some of the key stats for 2012. Here goes: No of rides 47 Miles covered 5252 Average no on a ride 21 Highest attended Memorial ride, Lord Mayors ride, Lakes weekend, Sammy Miller, Polly's, RTTW, Remembrance Day ride, Warwickshire ride Lowest attended Ace Café ( weather dependant), Jubilee, Brightona, Hoggin the Bridge Best attended Rally’s TITG, SOFER, Iron Horse Cancellations 2 Rides due to weather (Treasure Hunt/Hard Rock) Accidents None Incident Parking Fine Cambridge I am sure you will agree this is a great achievement as a Chapter and I would like to put on record my thanks to the Road Captains, and Steve and Martin who all play there part in ensuring we can deliver it, and I know they always want to do a great job so thanks all. We have used this information along with requests from you guys and gals to plan next year, the plan will be finalised in February but as you will have seen we have started planning early for some overnight rides. Also, a key date to put in your diary now is Saturday 23rd March which is the Memorial Ride which Martin will be leading. This will officially mark the start of the Nene Valley riding season, although if we have an Indian Spring we will be out there before then. Also keep your eyes out for a Skills Riding day for all and other new and interesting things. I am going to lead a ride to the Great British Music Experience at the 02 Arena in the Summer and plans are already shaping up for this to be a great day. This will include a group meal at TGI Fridays The next big event to celebrate this year will be the Awards Night where we will recognise those that have amassed the most points and those that have amassed the most miles in the Mile High Club. Don’t forget to get your closing mileage into myself or Mike Sharp. I hope you are all coming Friday 11th January. It’s going to be a close call for some of the awards. Well, until January, have a great Xmas and a great New Year and thanks for all your support in 2012, bring on 2013 and lots of great riding in the sun. Cheers, Mikey. HRC “ The Chapters at its best when it rides” Mike@maivers7.freeserve.co.uk, mt.sharp@btinternet.com
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Winter Maintenance Tips
Winter 2012
Hi Guys. If like me you take the time to clean and check over your bike throughout these cold dark winter months I have some tips for you that could just save you the hassle of a breakdown when you are out riding again next year. Models: Glides and Tourers 1. Remove the left hand side panel, check your wiring. I have found on my glide that the panel has actually rubbed through the protective sheath for the wiring harness and started to rub on the wires. Solution: Wrap the affected area with insulation tape, including individual wires if necessary. You should find sufficient room to move the wiring harness up and cable tie it to your frame. This gives enough clearance to stop the panel rubbing the wiring harness.
4. On the rear mudguard of the Glide, where the rear wiring harness runs under the seat, I have found that the seat is resting on one part of the wiring harness. Solution: Cable clip the harness out of the way, e.g. to the main wiring harness. I hope you find these tips useful and they help you avoid dealing with the hassle that goes with a breakdown on your 2. On later models that have the exhaust valve fitted to bike whilst on your way to somewhere you have really been the right hand silencer you have a cable that opens the valve looking forward to, especially if it is on the continent! as you open the throttle. On my Glide I have found the cable If you are unsure of how to deal with any of these problems, was not secured correctly in the cable clamp and has been please feel free to speak to me at club night and I will gladly rubbing through the outer cable. help you. Solutions: Check cable, if it has rubbed right through the outer case, get the cable replaced. If you find only the outer Take care and Ride safe and if I don’t see you before, have a cable cover has been affected simply wrap insulation tape wonderful Christmas. around the affected area. Put the cable back into the securing clamp and ensure it is tight. Chris (Rainman) 3. Remove seat, check wiring to see if it is routed through the rear mudguard, (Glides mainly). I have found on mine that the main wiring loom is routed through an elongated hole in the mudguard with no protection from rubbing against the edge of the mudguard. Solution: Fit anything you may have (e.g. a piece of draught insulation tape or piece of bicycle rubber inner tube – anything soft and spongy) around the edges of the hole in your rear mudguard to stop the wiring harness from rubbing through on the sharp edge of the mudguard.
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NV GALLERY
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WINTER 2012
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Jan’s SA Baptism of Fire
Winter 2012
So we were finally off to South Africa after several months of anticipation, planning, mounting excitement and in my case a certain amount of trepidation. The bike I was to ride over there was a Softail Heritage, somewhat larger than the Sportster I’ve ridden since passing my test! “You’ll be fine” said my Harley comrades. “You can’t, it’s so big!” said my nonriding friends.
London Eye and a drink or three. I had Sex in the Brewery (no a vodka cocktail!). (You should have seen the taxi driver’s face when Jan repeated that statement later that evening when we drove past the same bar !! – Editor) In the evening we were treated to an African Experience, a multi course meal accompanied by African drummers, singers and dancers. The atmosphere was fantastic. What a great start to the fortnight. We were up early the next morning, by my standards, to go and fetch our bikes. There was my blue Softail. I was shown how to start it and we were off – up to Table Mountain! Talk about a baptism of fire! I rode off the forecourt, turned left into the road and was faced with a hill and traffic lights – red ones! I’ve only been on the thing for a couple of seconds and already I have to do a hill start! Breath deep. Relax. That conquered there were further hills, lights, sharp turns. Up we climbed twisty roads and all and finally reached the car park. Phew! Well from then on I was fine. Table Mountain was worth the long, hot, disorganised wait in the queue. The views were stunning. After that we took some further twisty turny roads to Cape Point – more stunning views – then on past Simonstown and back towards Cape Town (past an accident to test my slow riding skills – bit wobbly but I managed). The final test of the day was the motorway back into town. The others very kindly congratulated me on coping with all the day had thrown at me but I had really enjoyed it. All my trepidation was forgotten. The following day we set off from Cape Town on the first real leg of our journey, towards Montagu. The route, under more blue skies, was initially a zigzag up the mountain with sheer drops to the left of us, beautiful views from the top and then the wiggly windy route down the other side which was breath Well, I had no choice. I was going on the holiday so I would taking such a rugged landscape. I was really enjoying this. I have to cope with the bike. Countdown days were getting decided I must have died and gone to heaven. fewer and finally the big day arrived. I travelled to the airport with Mikey & Becky where we met up with John & Nichola The whole two weeks continued in this vein. We had (from Peak Riders) who were also joining us on the trip and wonderful rides; fantastic hotels; delicious meals in fabulous very soon Mike & Jackie, Colin & Ann and Chris & Maria were restaurants; amazing experiences and continuous laughs. there too. Our tour guide Mike along with his partner Patti added a lot to our enjoyment too. None of us wanted to come home. The overnight flight got us into Cape Town quite early in the And now I know I can ride anything I put my mind to, morning. We arrived to clear blue skies all day. We were including an ostrich! met by the tour organiser and shown around a bit of Cape Town in a minibus. We checked into our hotel after lunch where we were grateful for a shower and change of clothes. Jan Harter Chris, Maria, Colin, Ann and I then went for a walk to the Waterfront, which included a ride on their equivalent of the
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Cape Tour – Jan’s Gallery
WINTER 2012
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Becky & Mikey’s – Cape Classic Tour 2012
Winter 2012
The adventures of the Ivers, Lapsleys, Jan, the Baileys, Nicola and John and the Wakelins Monday 22nd October.... Well the day arrived. Surprisingly, as it was a really horrible foggy day, there were no mishaps getting to the airport and we were there on time. Checking in was a bit busy as loads of European flights had been canned due to the fog. One of our biggest worries was weight ( no not ours!!!!) but luggage as bike wear ain't half heavy. They always say Girls pack the kitchen sink, well in the weight competition, (heaviest bought the beer), well Colin's case was only 15 kilo and Mikey's was 29.2 kilos. They didn't charge him. After supper and beer, a spot of shopping, we were on our way to the gate. On the plane, 7 of us sat together and 4 at the back (we were split up as the other 4 were extending their stay), although they did have a row each between them. After a short 1 hour delay in taking off, we were on our way. A few drinks, movies and dinner followed by more drinks and sleep and breakfast and we were there...and it was blue blue sky, wall to wall sunshine and WE HAD ARRIVED. Tuesday 23rd October.... We always knew today was a day of rest as not many slept on the flight, although Mikey managed about 8 hours. We got off looking a bit shabby and smelly (except Nicola who looked a million dollars) and after a painless customs and bag retrieval we were met by Joerg our rep in South Africa. A tour of the City followed, with a visit to Signal mountain (Table Mountain was closed due to wind), all of the main monuments, Dutch houses and the waterfront. We had lunch at the Waterfront, which was amazing, our first taste of Castle beer, which went down great as we were a bit hot. The food was amazing and cheap and to be sat in the sun when we knew it was foggy at home just made it all the better. After doing our own thing or chilling it was time for our official Welcome dinner and time to meet our guide. Another Mike Mike and Patti were lovely. We went to Gold which is an African themed restaurant where they serve you an experience of all the main African dishes, accompanied by singing and dancing. What a great first night. Wednesday 24th October God it was hot when we woke up. Paper work filled in and mini bus waiting for us we went to the rental place which was next door to the Cape Town HD dealership. We picked our bikes, went for a mooch and then we were briefed on the day and got to meet Mike and Patti in more detail. Mike came dressed in his black denim waistcoat showing his colours for the Howling Wolf MCC Club, and we were ready for the off. First was a ride up Table Mountain, where we joined the long, long queue to go in the cable car to take you to the very
top. It had been closed for 4 days so it was very very busy..... and I mean really, really busy, but we kept ourselves busy people watching and piss taking and before we knew it we were boarding. It was worth it the views and things from the top were stunning, and we saw some of the wildlife. Once down from the mountain, we then got on our way proper and headed for a tour of the Cape. We followed the coast road and then headed for the peak mountain road and then on to Cape Point the end of the world. Where the Atlantic meets the Indian Ocean. This was again a national park so between us we spotted Ostriches, Zebra, hummingbirds, mice, lizards, furry caterpillars and it was a truly magnificent ride. Back on the road heading for home but along the coast and then back into the hills, an awesome road home but as we were late we hit rush hour. it was our fault as it was just us on the tour we were happy to stay out longer than scheduled. Negotiating rush hour was fun but we were then back, bags dumped and a well earned beer or 2 was the first thing on most of our minds. Next stop was dinner, we decided to go for a meaty meal and many sampled the delights of boar and crocodile and Cape pudding before a stroll through the waterfront and back to bed. Star of the day goes to Jan who on her first time on a big bike with boards coped amazing with traffic, motorway, hill starts and everything else thrown at her. Thursday 25th October We set off from Cape Town today heading North East on the Garden Route. Our destination was Montague. A bit of bike swapping before we left, Mikey moved onto a Heritage, which he had always intended to do but was chuffed when it was a sparkling hardly ridden one. The screen came off mine and we were off onto the highway before hitting the mountains and our first mountain pass, which was awesome...straight onto the second which was a really good quality road with sweeping bends and magnificent views. Lunch stop was on the side of the hill and all of us sampled the local delights before heading off. The afternoons riding was a real contrast. Big mountain roads and passes with lots of twists or long American type roads. There were lots of spots on the roads today, baboons, springboks, flamingos, loads of birds and our eyes were instantly peeled. We took the opportunity to stop about 50 k outside of Montagu for stretch, pee brake and in awe of the road we decided to do some fooling around before heading on. It was getting really hot now and I think we were glad to see our digs the Mimosa Lodge, where we received a warm welcome and a beer. People then did their own thing, shop, wander, explore, swim, before meeting up at 7 for drinks and dinner. We were introduced to Gonzo today who is a Harley monkey who is awarded to the person that has a blonde moment. Once awarded with Gonzo he's yours for 24 hours and has to go everywhere with you. We had a few contenders today but the winner as Anne who tried to wash her
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Becky & Mikey’s – Cape Classic Tour 2012 hands with the cellophane on the soap and wondered why it didn't make much of a lather. Friday 26th October Wow what another great day of contrasts...we left Mimosa and headed on Route 62 which is South Africa's equivalent to Route 66. We had a couple of stops along the way, first stop was the official place to prove you had ridden Route 62. Second shop was the famous Ronnie's Sex Shop, which was an amazing little place in the middle of now where. Next stop was lunch followed by more of Route 62 and then a mountain pass through the mountains at river level. Followed by another great route to Prince Albert. We arrived at Bergkant Lodge to our amazement an oasis of rooms, pools and gardens, all of us were impressed with our rooms and service, we had the suite which Mikey loved. A wander, strip, hot pool, sherry in the hot tub and then ready for dinner which was at an award winning restaurant in Prince Albert.
Sunday 28th October Today we headed for Addo, for some tiredness was setting in so we decided to get there the most pretty but quick way, with a short lunch stop. The scenery changed along the way with it becoming greener and more lush and animal spotting became the thing of the morning. With meerkats, monkeys, springbok, baboons, birds… We had a stop for lunch, well a Gonzo moment presented itself. As we are a one group tour we have more of a say over what happens in the day, and as I said earlier we agreed, led loudly by Groundhog that we would have a quick lunch. Terrified some of us had a quick snack, an hour later Mike was still waiting for his prawns, which he thought was a snack to be greeted with 6 lobsters on a plate with loads of accompaniments. He will never live it down. Next stop was Cosmos, where we were for 2 nights. Zebra, more monkeys and Élan were spotted on the way in. The rest of the week he have been busy trying to cram everything in we can see, but we knew that once the bikes were parked up and the electronic gates locked we were riding nowhere till Tuesday so we hit the pool and the Gin in fact we drank the hotel out of gin.
Again many of us sampled local cuisine, Chris had Ostrich, loads of us had Warthog washed down with some great wine. In our blogs we have forgot to mention drink prices and hospitality so here goes. Wherever we go people love the bikes and are so courteous on the roads, it's day 5 and we have seen only a couple of idiots...also when we get to our destination there is often a cold beer waiting for us and drinks are on the house before we go out. Oh and beer averages at 50p a bottle and best wine between 4 and 8 quid a bottle...result... Saturday 27th October Today was a day of contrasts, we started off today going back through the windy hills of Prince Albert followed by the pass cut in the hills. We stopped this time to climb up and see the waterfall. It was beautiful, further along we swing left on an American type road on our way to Graaf Reinet. This was a long stretch that will remembered by the number of Ostriches spotted, and it was bloody cold. Lunch stop was in Willowmore followed by a long stretch to Graaf Reinet, the sun came out and it warmed up and being a Saturday the roads were quiet....so we had some fun as Chris's video will show. We arrived at our lodge to be welcomed and shown to our themed rooms. Chris and Maria had the honeymoon suite, we were in the rose room. We dumped our stuff and headed for the Valley of Desolation, now to be known as the Nene Valley of Desolation. Some rode and some went in the mini bus, we went to watch the sun set and took wine, cheese and beer and it was stunning as the pictures show. Back for quick turn around and dinner. One thing I have not really gone on about as we have been spoilt for ever more is the standard of hotels. Every night we have been in awe of our rooms, some rooms are bigger than houses and we do not exaggerate. Every night it's a competition to see who has the best room. Cosmos Cuisine Hotel had a pillow in the bath, an emergency kit including condoms, bath salts, candles... I could go on but I would bore you.
Winter 2012
Maria was on top form which resulted in her being put to bed. Monday 29th October Well, after a lovely breakfast of Eggs Benedict and all togged up for the day and night we were met by Nikie our guide for the day. First stop was Addo which is a vast area in Africa with Elephants galore. Some of us spotted down the left of the van and some on the right and it wasn't long before we saw Elephants, tortoises, Zebra, Buck , kudu and warthog. Next stop was lunch before swapping to an open sided vehicle for a early afternoon and evening Game drive, this was amazing, albeit it a bit Chilly. Chris road out on the game keepers chair for a while and there was plenty to see. It was getting quite late and we spotted Giraffe and lions. The benefit of going in a group together is that you get Group voice and we were on our own and not with other tourists. So we asked whether he could go off road and get closer to the lions, it was more than his jobs worth but he did ask and the owner said yes so we got really close, scaringly close.....the pictures show this. We then headed back to some huts with roaring fires and traditional African grub...which was great, followed by a short night drive, back in the mini bus and back to Cosmos. It was now 9 o'clock with a hour long drive to go by the time we got there we were all sleeping. What a day.
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Becky & Mikey’s – Cape Classic Tour 2012
Winter 2012
Tuesday 30th October Today we left the open plains of the Eastern Cape and headed for the deep Garden route of the Western Cape...this was supposed to be the most beautiful ride but........ It rained and rained and rained. As we got towards the coast it brightened up and we made an early stop for lunch at Jeffery's Bay. It got really warm so waterproofs came off for about 10 mins and then we hit real rain. It was such a shame as the views would have been stunning. We got to Kynsna sun shining again...a short rest before heading out to the Olde Bar where Mike had organised our own private musician. It didn't take long for us lot to Dance until kicking out time with Smoke on Water being played as expected. Mikey and Mike the Bike swapped waistcoats as can be seen. Wednesday 31st October Today was a free day and people did different things. John and Nic went off with an arms and diamond dealer and went shooting big guns, oozie 9 mm, colt 45's, magnum 345 and AK 47's. Jan, Colin and Anne went on a paddle steamer across the estuary and shopped and the rest of us ( Ivers, Lapsley's and Wakelins) retraced our steps to Storms River Bridge on our bikes as we were able to take them on our own. (we had a lead road captain, and 2 tails and there were more than four of us do we get a point!!!) We left Storms River and headed into Natures Valley which was a stunning pass with a river and lagoon, we had to do a bit of off roading to get there. Next stop we went to Tenikwa cat conservation centre where were able to get up close and personal with the cats. Last stop was the Marina at Knysna, before a quick brush up and out for a great Italian. Thursday 1st November Today we woke up to beautiful clear blue sky and it was hot, after breakfast outside and a quick wash of the bikes for some of us, (after our off roading experience) we then saddled up and went to see the Heads of Kynsna. After here we headed west up the coast road passing through Sedgefield, Wilderness and Mossel Bay before heading for the Robinson Pass which takes you to Oudtshorn. First stop was the Ostrich Farm, where after a lunch of Ostrich we had an hour guided tour before the light ones, Anne and Jan, were allowed to ride them. Next we headed back onto route 62 and then turned off for the Swarzberg Pass and the Cango Caves, which were amazing, some of the stalagmites were 200 thousand years old....but it was bloody hot. We then headed back to Thorntree which was a lovely guest house where cold beers were the order of the day before dinner which we had in the guesthouse. Friday 2nd November Wow what a day, and as I am sat here writing this at 6 o'clock on Saturday morning I am watching Whales outside my bedroom window. We left Oudtshorn today heading for Hermanus. We headed back over the Robinson Pass where the views were stunning and then back on the coast road, all the way to Hermanus. We went straight to meet the Whale Cryer, before checking in to our see view rooms where it didn't take us long to spot the whales.
We had a few hours spares and all did different stuff, I was content sat on the rocks Whale watching, before getting ready and going to the local fish restaurant. Saturday 3rd November Well today is our last full day and we had a few hours to do our own thing this morning...me, Mikey, Mike and Jackie and Jan went whale watching, which was just amazing. We got back and "Pass Lapsley" was raring to go and we headed along the coast road before going in land to some amazing roads and passes. A good lunch stop before more amazing roads and heading for Stellenboch where we were for our last night. Our farewell dinner was at Maya an African themed night, with face painting, we also celebrated Jan’s birthday as she didn't tell us it was her big birthday the week before we came. Dinner was not as lary as normal I think sadness to be finishing our amazing holiday and tiredness had truly set in. Sunday 4th November Well today was our last day and we were then back on the overnight flight. Technically the bikes were back by 10.00 am but again as we wanted to keep riding, we did, and rode all along the coast to Simonstown and to Boulders beach to see the penguins. They were amazing but very smelly. We dropped our bikes off said our farewells to Chris and Maria who had another week and then headed to the Waterfront for a last bit of shopping and lunch. It was a gorgeous day, so we sat outside and had our last Castle beers Next stop was the airport where Mikey and I had to pay for our excess luggage.. What a pain.. Then more mooching before our flight left , it's now 3.54 am and we have about 2 hours left to go on our flight... We have slept, I think we're all knacked even though it was a real bumpy ride home. Well what can I say about the holiday overall, it has been amazing, amazingly led by Patti and Mike, amazing roads and views, Africa is just stunning, and amazing company to share it all with. Can't complain about the food drink, prices, lodges, things we visited. My only wish was that it was a tad warmer. Like us at home the weather gets its revenge and after 6 years of drowt they have had two wet springs. So from ZA 2012 and..... until the next time Becky & Mikey
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Cape Tour – Ivers Gallery
WINTER 2012
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Colin & Anne’s – SA Garden Route
Winter 2012
After a 2 year wait (enabling us to save for it) our South African trip was finally here! The Western Cape ‘Garden Route’ was our destination, during which we logged up about 3000km over superb roads. This took in many of the wine regions that are found in the Cape. This was for us a trip of a lifetime, the furthest we have travelled after several years of European touring. Our start and finish point was Cape Town where the 7 bikes were picked up from a garage close to the newly opened HD dealership. Our party consisted of Chris & Maria, Mike & Jackie, Becky & Mikey, Jan and John & Nicky (from Peak Riders) and ourselves. The welcome dinner was held in a nearby restaurant, complete with African food of all types and accompanying dancers, again in traditional dress. We were joined by Mike & Patti who were to be our guides for the next two weeks. After collecting the bikes next day we had no time to get the feel of them as we headed straight up to Table Mountain, which overlooks Cape Town. The road was packed with traffic so our first experience was filtering past all the stationary cars & buses until we reached the cable cars that took us to the summit, some 1085m high. The cable cars revolve and can travel at 10metres per second, each carries 65 people so the ride was entertaining! From the top there were fantastic panoramic views over Cape Town and surrounding beaches all in glorious sunshine. It was here that we first spotted a Dassie, best described as a large rabbit without ears, many of which we later saw at Hermanus. We were then able to get properly acquainted with the bikes by taking some twisting roads overlooking the sea down to Cape Point the most southerly tip of Africa, famous for many shipwrecks over the years. Leaving Cape Town we took winding roads over the Drakenstein mountains, first to Montagu, passing the many winelands, where we stopped at Mimosa Lodge, a former farmhouse, elderly persons home & brothel! Our upstairs balcony overlooking the street reminded me of the saloon bars in cowboy western films where all the shooting takes place! Next day saw us in Prince Albert, another white painted cape Dutch style village. We then journeyed on through the barren landscape of the semi desert known as the Karoo on Route 62 (the South African version of R66) stopping off for coffee at ‘Ronnie’s Sex Shop’ where we marvelled at the array of ladies underwear and other items adorning the bar! T shirts were bought here and no doubt will be on show at club night. Eventually we arrived at Graaf Reinet, through the Swartberg mountains with their many bridges and waterfalls. Later we took a short ride to see the sunset over the Valley of Desolation with truly stunning scenery overlooking the plains of Camdeboo far below us. We continued next day to Addo, located in the Eastern Cape province, and in warm sunshine by the pool a successful attempt was made to drink the bar out of G&T. Maria unfortunately had to retire early – must have been the sun!! In Addo had a free day to take in two guided drives through the National Park, the third largest in SA and some 700 square miles in area Here we saw lions, elephants, zebra, giraffe, kudu, impala, springbok, baboon and many others all in their natural habitat and our guide was later given permission to drive ‘off track’ to observe a pride of lions, literally a few metres away. The elephant herd numbers 550 so many photos where taken of these magnificent creatures. The following day saw us leave in heavy rain heading to Knysna, located at the end of a very attractive lagoon entrance to the Indian Ocean. Jan & ourselves decided to have a nonriding day and explore the town and then took a boat trip around the lagoon, where champagne was taken by the ladies. Jan was here forced to raid the ATM on several occasions due to the
irresistible attraction of the many waterfront African craft shops. A very good evening was spent in a local biker bar with live music, sampling the local brew and of course wines and cocktails, with some of the regulars joining in our rendition of ‘Smoke on the Water’ etc. We journeyed on to Oudtshoorn, stopping for lunch at an Ostrich farm where our guide asked for two volunteers to ride around a paddock on the back of an ostrich, once the bag had been taken off its head! Jan and Anne decided this would provide us all with good laugh watching these strange looking birds running around – the ostrich not the riders. Later we stopped off at Cango caves, the largest in Africa, and are reputed to be 20m years old. They were used in the past for musical events so vast are the size of these caverns! Upon arriving at out hotel we were met by the owner and Jan’s opening line was ‘hello I’m Jan, I’m single are you married?’ Beer by the pool was our next objective! Next day we were off to Hermanus, formerly a small fishing village where we had a sea front hotel with balcony, Here we could see many of the whales that migrate from Antarctica in the breeding season. These are Southern Right whale, growing to 16m long and there can be up to 150 pairs at the height of the season. Along the sea front we saw the world’s only whale crier who constantly blows his kelp horn as he patrols the streets, alerting everyone to the whereabouts of the whales. He blows various horn ‘codes’ which refer to different points along the coastline where whales have been seen – no I don’t understand it either! Our next destination was Stellanbosch, famous for its wine growing and incidentally a University town. It was here that we had our farewell dinner at the Spier wine estate. It was decided that this should celebrate Jan’s recent big birthday so we set off with many balloons and in full party mood to celebrate in style in a decorated tree house where we were served a variety of African dishes, at the same time having our faces painted in traditional patterns by the waitresses. The final day took us on a fantastic ride through mountain passes and sweeping valleys, down to sea level next to beaches and pure white sands at Simonstown .We then stopped off at Boulders beach to see the African Penguin colony, an endangered species that are now slowly on the increase. From here it was a short ride back through the Cape Town traffic to return the bikes and collect our long awaited T Shirts. Last but not least I would like to say how much everyone appreciated the company of our two guides, Mike & Patti who really added to the trip with their organizational skills and good humour at all times. Similarly our two drivers, Sadiq and Naasier ever helpful and joining in at every opportunity – thanks boys. Anne & Colin
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Cape Tour – The Bailey’s
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WINTER 2012
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South Africa - Cape Tour Gallery - 3
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WINTER 2012
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South Africa - Cape Tour Gallery - 3
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WINTER 2012
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Tal’s Humour Corner
WINTER 2012
A woman gives birth to a baby and afterwards the doctor comes into the room and says, "I have something to tell you about your child." The woman slowly sits up with a worried look on her face and says, "What's wrong with it?" The doctor says, "There's nothing really wrong with it, it's just a little different! It's a hermaphrodite." The woman looks confused. "A hermaphrodite, what's that?" The doctor replies, "It has both features of a male and a female." The woman looks relieved. "Oh good. So, it has a penis and a brain."
Finally, unable to wait any longer for a purchaser, they had to borrow a huge sum of money from the bank to purchase a new place. Then the ex-husband called the woman and asked how things were going. She told her the saga of the rotting house. He listened politely and said that he missed his old home terribly and would be willing to reduce her divorce settlement in exchange for having the house. Knowing he could have no idea how bad the smell really was, the woman agreed on a price that was only 1/10th of what the house had been worth with the condition that he would sign the papers that very day. He agreed, and within two hours her lawyers delivered the completed paperwork. A week later the woman and her boyfriend stood smiling as they watched the moving company pack everything to take to their new home, and to spite her ex-husband, she even took the curtain rods!
On the first day, he sadly packed his belongings into boxes, crates and suitcases. On the second day, he had the movers come and collect his things. On the third day, he sat down for the last time at their beautiful dining room table, by candlelight; he put on some soft background music, and feasted on a pound of shrimp, a jar of caviar, and a bottle of spring-water. When he'd finished, he went into each and every room and deposited a few half-eaten shrimps dipped in caviar into the hollow center of the curtain rods. He then cleaned up the kitchen and left. On the fourth day, the wife came back with her new boyfriend, and at first all was bliss. Then, slowly, the house began to smell. They tried everything; cleaning, mopping, and airing-out the place. Vents were checked for dead rodents, and carpets were steam cleaned. Air fresheners were hung everywhere. Exterminators were brought into set off gas canisters, during which time the two had to move out for a few days, and in the end they even paid to replace the expensive wool carpeting. Nothing worked! People stopped coming over to visit. Repairmen refused to work in the house. The maid quit. Finally, they couldn't take the stench any longer, and decided they had to move. A month later, even though they'd cut their price in half, they couldn't find a buyer for such a stinky house. Word got out, and eventually even the local realtors refused to return their calls.
A man, while playing on the front nine of a complicated golf course became confused as to where he was on the course. Looking around, he saw a lady playing ahead of him. He walked up to her, explained his confusion and asked her if she knew what hole he was playing. 'I'm on the 7th hole,' she replied, 'and you are a hole behind me. So you must be on the 6th hole.' He thanked her and went back to his golf. On the back nine, the same thing happened and he approached her again with the same request. 'I'm on number 14, and you're still a hole behind, so you must be on the 13th hole.' Once again he thanked her and re turned to his play. He finished his round and went to the clubhouse where he saw the same lady sitting at the end of the bar. He asked the bartender if he knew the lady. The bartender said that she was a sales lady and played the course often. He approached her and said, 'Let me buy you a drink in appreciation for your help. I understand that you're in the sales profession. I'm in sales also. What do you sell?' 'I'll tell you, but you're going to laugh,' she replied. 'No, I won't. 'Well, if you must know,' she answered, 'I work for Tampax.' With that, he laughed so hard he lost his balance and fell off the bar stool. 'See,' she said, 'I knew you'd laugh!' 'That's not what I'm laughing at,' he replied, 'I'm a salesman for Preparation H, so I'm still a hole behind you
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February Committee MoM
Winter 2012
Towcester Rugby Club 7.15 pm on 14th November 2012 Please note that some of the items have been omitted since they are events past. The complete and unedited minutes are available in the member’s area of the website.
Webmaster Update There is nothing to report. Latest photos will be added to the site shortly.
Committee Members Present: Martin Dickinson (Director) Dave Burridge (Assistant Director & Activities Officer) John Nicholas (Treasurer) Mike Ivers (Head Road Captain) Shani Elms (Ladies of Harley) Scot Haynes (Webmaster) Chris Lapsley (Editor) Steve Harris (Safety Officer)
Editor Update Still no new material coming in but material for December printed N@N will be cover by expected inputs from South Africa team. If there is no new material input for March 2013 issue then the Editor will look at a Review issue covering material from past issues of N@N. The committee members will also consider putting together material for the March issue.
Apologies : Mike Wakelin, Maria Lapsley Minutes of the last meeting were read and agreed. Financial Report Finances are still very healthy, and nothing much has changed. There are no real issues and no outstanding issues. Membership Report Membership currently stands at 194. 120 paying members. There were no new members to report this month. Activity Officer Update The Activity Officer apologised that current work commitments meant that time was not available to arrange the previously discussed horse race night, quiz night or Conker championship. There is nothing else in planning for 2012 and the activities committee are yet to meet to start planning 2013 events. A new site has been found for 2013’s Credit Crunch weekend. Details will be announced next year.
LOH Update There are currently no further events planned. A Bingo night is yet to be arranged. Confirmation of a new LoH officer has been received. The new LoH Officer will be presented at December club night. The existing & new LoH will have a brief handover period in advance of booking the next LoH event. The LoH Officer visited Lakeside HD and purchased a number of items for prizes / presentation at the Awards night. Merchandise Update Update not available. Rally 2013 – 16th to 18th August Ticket sales are underway but slow. Tickets are available for sale at club night. The Editor will issue the Rally poster & details to all chapter editors. The Director & Webmaster will each contact their counter parts in other chapters. Twilight Thames Details for this event are still pending. Awards Night Ticket sales so far have been slow with 23 being sold so far. 70+ ticket sales are required for the event to happen A list of awards was given to the AO.
Head Road Captain Update We are currently low on 100 point pins so new order may be required. There will be a Road Captains meeting on 20th November to review the 2012 rides and start planning for 2013 events. Depending on the weather it is hoped there will be a Boxing Day ride out. Details will be posted nearer the date. The HRC attended a Harley organised Road Captain training session where a ride was videoed that would to be used to demonstrate to other Chapters the HOG way for organising and running ride outs. This was generally attended by Oxford and Chelsea & Fulham Chapter RCs.
AOB The Editor will send out a global email encouraging the membership to purchase Award Night & 2013 Rally Tickets as soon as possible – in order for the organising teams to get a better idea of final numbers for these events.
Safety Officer Update Nothing new to report.
There being no other business the meeting was closed at 7.55 p.m.
The Director suggested an organised Chapter ride to attend the Orval Rally in June 2013.
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Date
Event
Location
Information
December 2012 Wed 12th
Club Night
Towcester Rugby Club
From 7.30pm
January 2013 th
Wed 9 Fri 11th
Club Night NV Awards Night
Towcester Rugby Club Towcester Rugby Club
Wed 13th
Club Night
Towcester Rugby Club
From 7.30pm 7.30 till late
February 2013 From 7.30pm
March 2013 Wed 13th Sat 23rd Sun 31st
Club Night Memorial Ride Easter Egg Run
Towcester Rugby Club Rutland Water Keech Hospice
Sat 6th Sun 7th Wed 10th 2021st April Thurs 25th Sun 28th
Lord Mayor’s Ride Warwickshire Ride Club Night Dragon & Dyke Ride Harley Davidson Night Treasure Hunt
Northampton Midlands Towcester Rugby Club Forest of Dean and Offa’s Dyke Ace Café, London Details to follow
Sun 5 th Wed 8th Sat 11th 10th – 13th May 18th – 19th May Thurs 30th
Pub Run Club Night Micro Brewery Ride Iron Horse Rally Devonshire Coast Ride Harley Davidson Night
Evesham Towcester Rugby Club North Warwickshire
Sun 2 nd Wed 12th 22nd 23rd June
Matlock Ride Club Night Summer Solstice Ride
Thurs 27th Sun 30th
Harley Davidson Night Ride to the Arboretum
Derbyshire Towcester Rugby Club Yorkshire & Seaside overnight camping in Filey Ace Café, London Alrewas, Staffordshire
Wed 10th 13th 14th July
Club Night Beaulieu Ride
Sun 21st Thurs 25th
Seaside Ride Harley Davidson Night
Towcester Rugby Club Sammy Miller & Beaulieu Motor Museum, New Forest Skegness Ace Café, London
Sun 4 th Wed 7th Wed 14th Sun 11th 16th – 18th Aug Thurs 29th
Breakfast Ride Classics on the Common Club Night British Music Experience /O2 NV ‘Old Scholl’ Rally Harley Davidson Night
TBC TBC Towcester Rugby Club O2 Arena, London Towcester Rugby Club Ace Café, London
3rd – 8th Sept Sun 8 th Sun 15th Wed 11th Sat 21st Thurs 26th Sun 29th
Faaker See Rally Breakfast Ride Cream Tea Ride Club Night Eco Ride Harley Davidson Night RAF Hendon
Austria TBC Henley Towcester Rugby Club TBC Ace Café, London North London
Sat 5th Wed 9th Sun 13th Thurs 31st
RTTW 6 & The Return Club Night Brightona Harley Davidson Night
NMA Alrewas Towcester Rugby Club TBC Ace Café, London
Sun 10th
Remembrance Day Ride & Baps Club Night
Bletchley
‘The Ambassador’ Leading
Towcester Rugby Club
From 7.30pm
From 7.30pm ‘So Bad’ Leading ‘Mikey’ Leading
April 2013 ‘So Bad’ Leading TBC ‘Jedi@ Leading From 7.30pm ‘Slow Hand’ Leading Check Website for confirmation & details
May 2013
Devon Ace Café, London
‘Mikey’ Leading From 7.30pm ‘Owl’ Leading See St Ledger Chapter website ‘Pasty’ Leading Check Website for confirmation & details
June 2013 ‘Becks’ Leading From 7.30pm ‘Slow Hand’ Leading Check Website for confirmation & details Chris Ringer Leading
July 2013 From 7.30pm ‘Sharpie’ Leading Chris Ringer Leading Check Website for confirmation & details
August 2013 ‘Rickie’ Leading ‘Sharpie’ Leading From 7.30pm ‘Mikey’ Leading Check Announcements Check Website for confirmation & details
September 2013 Chapter ride lead by ‘So Bad’ ‘Rickie’ Leading ‘Becks’ Leading From 7.30pm ‘The Rev’ Organising Check Website for confirmation & details Chris Ringer Leading
October 2013 ‘Mikey’ & ‘Slow Hand’ Leading From 7.30pm ‘Bob the Bus’ Leading Check Website for confirmation & details
November 2013 Wed 13th
Disclaimer: The Editor accepts no responsibility for the views and comments expressed in this publication. All views and comments contained are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of Nene Valley H.O.G®, Harley Davidson®, their agents, or authorised dealers. All H.O.G.® Logos and marks are used under licence in accordance with article X of the current H.O.G.® Annual Charter for H.O.G.® Chapters.