Golden Wing - 2006 Summer
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Transcript of Golden Wing - 2006 Summer
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:45 Page 1
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SUMMER 2006 1
Summer 2006, Volume 44 No. 2
Editor / DesignerTim Lee
HOConsumer EditorMark Clargo
Diary Co-ordinatorAndy Stryczko
Advertising Co-ordinatorErica Gassor
Thanks to all contributors
All feedback regarding the content and delivery of Golden Wing should be addressed to The Editor at the
address below or e-mailed to: [email protected].
Golden WingHonda Owners Club (GB)
Units 1B & 5BKemps Quay Industrial Park
Quayside RoadSouthampton
SO18 1BZTel/Fax: 023 8022 6045
Web Page: www.hoc.org.uk
Autumn IssueCopy Date 1st September 2006
Published by end of September 2006
Printing & Distribution by:LPC Printing Ltd
Hardley Industrial EstateHythe,Southampton
Tel: 023 8084 6334
© Honda Owners Club (GB) 2006
We believe the contents of Golden Wing tobe correct at the time of publication. TheHonda Owners Club (GB) cannot be heldresponsible for any errors, omissions, orfor subsequent changes to details given inthis publication or for the consequence ofany reliance on the information.
The views expressed in this publicationare not necessarily those of the HondaOwners Club (GB) or the ExecutiveCommittee
ARTICLES
Dibble Rattle’s On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Editor Says . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Kicking Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5The View Over the Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Membership Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Caption Competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Barry’s Bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Classic Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Down Your Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Reports from: Bedfordshire, Biristol, Devon & Somerset,
Cambridge, Eastern, Gloucestershire, NESS, Northants &
MK, North London, Northumbria, Oxford, Solent, Varadero,
West London
New Discount Suppliers . . . . . . . . . . . . .47iHOC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48Soapbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50Showing Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52BMF News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54HOConsumer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56Shop@HOC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60Members Free Ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62Members Discounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DO
Devon & Somerset Camping Weekend .17Clappers Rally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Birmingham Camping Weekend . . . . . . .22East Midlands Rally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26East Midlands Poker Weekend . . . . . . .27Oxford Rally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30Diary Dates centre pagesWiltshire Rally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43Solent Rally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37National Rally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38Three Shires Rally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40Wiltshire Rally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41HOC Open Day Brooklands . . . . . . . . . .46
FRONT COVER
The front cover of this issue shows Northants Branchcrossing the Millau Bridge on their branch holiday inApril.
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THE GOOD NEWSCONTINUES
Honda UK obviously felt that we wereworth talking to again after our turning up atso many events and getting to know theirstaff.
Three of us went along and had a veryfriendly and business like chat with the aftersales and events team staff. The result sofar is they have taken several pages ofadvertising in GW, and we are planningregular meetings with them at HQ. Inaddition, they have offered their trainingcentre at Poyle for our AGM in October. Youwill also find dates of events put on byHonda UK appearing on the website and inour published diaries. These will includethings like spectating at power boat events,with dedicated bike parking and discountedrefreshments. I hope this is the start of anew and hopefully long term period offriendly relations with Honda.
Since we last published there is now anew branch up and running in Sussex. Themeeting place and contacts are in thelistings at the diary pages.
I went along to the first meeting and waspleasantly surprised that they might have tothink of a venue change due to the largernumbers than expected. Since then theyhave had a couple of successful runs out.So if you are in the Sussex or south Surreyareas or even west Kent this branch couldbe for you.
The BMF show came and went andthanks to the efforts of the Cambridgebranch the club secured first place in theone make club competition, for the secondtime in five years.
It was a wet and cool weekend but westill had new members sign up and wewelcome those who braved the elements.The ‘Pink Ladies’ produced cakes galore forthe event and gallons of tea and coffee wereconsumed raising money for Riders forHealth and MAGPAS charities. Well doneeveryone.
I LIKE RESPONSES !They have come in plentiful numbers but
please don’t stop. I am referring to myquestions over classic bike use in the lastGW. It seems we have a strong contingentof classic bike users and I do notnecessarily mean the ‘Old Bikes’ that manythink of when we talk on this subject. Thereare many Fireblade, CBR600, VFR750 andPan European users out there with the earlymodels of those breeds. These are themodern classics which are to be heldalongside the CB750s the 400 fours etc.
The club has many new bike riders andmany multiple bike owners this wasevidenced in the survey done earlier in theyear. We can genuinely say we represent allHonda Motorcycle ownership across ourclub. This is what makes us unique and amuch respected club. DVLA and insurersare providing referrals to us.
DIRECT DEBIT IS HERE AT LAST.
After two years of form filling and banksearching, form designing and the like, wehave finally got Direct Debit for membershipset up. We would like as many of you aspossible to take up this option. If yourmembership is due for renewal Graham willsend you a reminder and option for this. If itis not yet due you can still apply and you willbe credited with the remaining balance ofyour current membership. Then you will nothave to fill in forms, buy stamps or go to thepost box again, and will still havecontinuous membership of the club.
ACE DAYAT THE ACE CAFÉ
We had a stand at a breezy but mostlydry Ace Café and I bid welcome to thosenew members who signed up on the day.
CCCCHHAAIIRRMMAANNHHAAIIRRMMAANN DDDDIIBBBBLLEEIIBBBBLLEE RRRRAATTTTLLEEAATTTTLLEE ’’’’SSSS OOOONNNN!!!!from Andy “Dibble” Young - Club Chairman
2 SUMMER 2006
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EEEE ’’’’SSSS OOOONNNN!!!!
PresidentTrevor Thompson
Vice PresidentsDave Barton,Tony Eldridge,Graham Gull
ChairmanAndy ‘Dibble’ Young
1 Severn Way, Kettering,Northants. NN16 9H
�� 01536 412086 � [email protected]
General SecretaryMark Clargo
9 Hendred WayAbingdon Oxon OX14 2AN
�� 01235 523483 � [email protected]
Membership SecretaryGraham Gull
61 Vicarage RoadWare SG12 7BE
Public Relations OfficeRoy Edwards
3 Pollards Close, Melton Mowbray. LE13 1UY�� 01664 569212 � [email protected]
Saddle Sore Shield Co-ordinatorStephen Davenport
�� 07968 810435 � [email protected]
Display Materials Co-ordinatorChris Wright
16 Auckland RoadMexborough S64 0AN
�� 01709 582740 � [email protected]
Regalia Co-ordinatorJustin Goddard,
19 Linkfield Avenue,Mountsorrel, Leicester, LE12 7DH
�� 0116 230 3277 � [email protected]
TreasurerDebbie Millard20 Tilden Close
High Halden, Ashford, Kent TN26 3LR�� 01233 850114 � [email protected]
WebmasterAndy (Stritchy) Stryczko� [email protected]
BMF Liaison OfficerJim Peel-Cross
15 Hill View Caravan ParkOare, Marlborough SN8 4JF�� 01672 564680
Classic SecretaryDave Barton
53 Northlands Road, TottonSouthampton. S040 3HA
SUMMER 2006 3
The team from KCS (Honda’s outdoordisplay people), did us proud with the loan oftheir more robust gazebo. Erica and co.were tracking people down with regulartenacity.
My lad enjoyed some of the slightly lessthan safe entertainment provided by theamateur stunt riders and it was a goodbreakfast.
CALLING WEST MIDLANDSAND NORFOLK.
Like the Sussex area we are trying nowto get more regional coverage going aroundthe country. I have a volunteer working onthe south west side of Birmingham to set upa West Midlands/ Severn Valley regionalbranch. Please watch the website and postfor news on this.
Likewise we know there are a lot ofowners in the Norfolk area so this summerthere will be a meeting posted on thewebsite and notified by post somewherenear Norwich. If any of you come along wecould perhaps get a branch up in that area.
RALLY SEASON ANDSUMMER
I have been to Devon and Somerset’sCornish weekend, I dropped in on Bedford’sClappers and got to the BMF and Aceevents. I also know that Wiltshire have hadtheir May bank holiday rally already. So farthese events have been quite well attendedalthough I must admit I have no idea howmany got to Cornwall as we never all gottogether anywhere. All I did get is waves andhellos from passing bikes people shoutingthere’s Dibble. Nice to meet a few of youthere that don’t get to some other events.
So the summer is here despite the wetstart so please everyone get along to at leastsome of the events it makes it all worthwhile.
Ride on but most of all ride safe
Cheers
Dibble
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4 SUMMER 2006
EEEEDDIITTOORRDDIITTOORR SSSSAAYYSSAAYYSS ........By far the hardest part about writing this
column is deciding what to write about.There is of course the ongoing saga withthe various projects happening at home,and occasionally something will happenwhich means I can have a rant. Having anoveractive sense of scepticism (some call itopinionated bigotry) helps, and this issue isno different, allowing me to bring togetherthe latest developments at home with a rantabout insurance companies and premiums.
By the time the last issue was sent tothe printers, we had been informed that thesubsidence in our house was a “one offevent”, and that cosmetic repairs were allthat was needed. In the weeks thatfollowed, the insurance company met withthe loss adjuster, who spoke to his surveyor,who liaised with the contractors surveyor,who instructed his works manager, whoscheduled the repair “team”.
As the policy holder I was sent aschedule of works, full of phrases such as“Extra over internal mortar crack repair forrepairing with masonry reinforcement towall comprising 1m length 6mm helicalstainless steel bar fixed in chased slot withcementicious grout and making good abovedoor”, and right at the end, the contractprice.
Commencement day arrived, and Iexpected the combined teams of groundforce and DIY SOS to swoop on my house,accompanied by the various plumbers,electricians and window specialists whohad been given a mention in the schedule.What actually happened was that Fred andBert turned up with their van, andproclaimed that they preferred tea withthree sugars. They then proceededto chip away at various bits of therender, and inserted steel bars insome of the places they weresupposed to. They then squeezedtubes of what looked like poshbathroom sealant into the gaps, andproclaimed “jobs a good un”. I thenquizzed them as to the missing bars,and there was of course a variety ofexcellent reasons as to why theywere no longer necessary, oralternatively, impossible to fit.
On day five, the decorating teamarrived, or to be more accurate, Daz
and his van.Don’t get mewrong, Daz, or“Dell Boy” (ashe was verykeen to tellus his nickname was),is possiblyone of theh a r d e s tw o r k i n gtradesmenI have met.He has alsomade an excellent jobof the decorating and is worth every penny ofhis day rate, and more.
And so to the cost. I calculated that thejob took 22 man days, and assuming ahigher than average day rate of £175, thiswould result in a bill for £3,850. Add to thisthe cost of materials, lets assume £1,000 onhelical bars, posh sealant and sand andcement, another £500 on paint and liningpaper, and a generous £200 for a smallscaffold tower, and the total bill should havebeen around £5,550 plus VAT. The actualcontract price; £10,740.77 plus VAT.
No wonder insurance premiums are sohigh!!
Well, enough of a rant from me.....Igoing off to the Solent rally where I will befound crying into my beer, musing overFred’s passing comment “You do know yourwall ties are corroded, don’t you?”
Keep it tidy!
Tim
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SUMMER 2006 5
EUROPEAN TOURING
Read recently of the demise of theVoyager magazine. Not surprised if it wasrun like their Website. Being ardententhusiasts of European touring, we tried toadvertise our facilities in it. Theirorganisation was nothing short of a pain inthe RRRs, & we eventually gave up trying.Shame really, a magazine on that subject issorely needed.
A survey said it was mainly over 40s thatrode in Europe, so what do younger ridersdo with their leisure time. They often ownmodern reliable machines, have creditcards, mobile phones & can get GPSsystems quite cheaply, but seem frightenedto leave their own little worlds.
Rusty & I first ventured abroad by touringHolland & Belgium in 1963, on a 250 ArielLeader without any of these modernamenities, we didn't even have a credit cardthose days.
Touring abroad isn't rocket science, itjust needs some basic planning, & a map ortwo.
C'mon you youngsters, you are indanger of becoming whimps, & missing outon some fantastic rides, & scenery
Pete BroadMember No No 21281 (France)
I would agree with you Pete that thereis much to be gained from Europe when itcomes to traffic free roads, spectacularscenery and all the new experiences whichcome from any trip abroad. Having beenskiing in a number of places in Europe, andhaving a set of parents who live in Spain, Ialways feel regret when I am over theirwithout my bike. However, in my case, aswith many, holidays are preciouscommodities, and as a parent, the kids haveto come first. Ed
OH BARRY!
Barry Tinson's letter was prompted bymy once saying Rockets aren't ideal forEuropean touring.
Sorry, didn't know we aren't allowed anopinion. I've only been riding for 59 years,had my own repair business, raced for 17years, & toured most of Europe, & now runa holiday site for UK bikers.
What do I know about biking.
Pete BroadMember No No 21281 (France)
Pete, I have published your letter,because, as I hope everyone is aware, Ipublish all letters as long as the content isnot libellous or unsuitable for the readershipas a whole.
I would also say that I have the utmostrespect for both you and Barry, as both ofyou have long histories as enthusiasticmotorcyclists and active club members.
However, I have read and re-readBarry’s article, and I can’t find an instancewhere he has stated that anyone is notallowed an opinion. In fact the opposite istrue.
One of the reasons that Barry is sowelcomed as a correspondent is that hisopinions are often disagreed with, andgenerate reactions as a result. As activeparticipation in these pages is something wetry to encourage, I welcome this.
If you feel that “plastic rockets” are notsuitable for European touring, please writein and tell us why, and I will be more thanhappy to print your article. Ed
KKKKIICCKKIINNGGIICCKKIINNGG BBBBAACCKKAACCKK ................Something to Say - Say it here
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6 SUMMER 2006
WHY SHOULD I REMAINA MEMBER?
Dear Sir,
I feel prompted to write to you afterreading yet again in your magazine abouthow you value new members, and thefriendliness and welcoming aspects of theHOC.
I joined the HOC in January of this year,and the first ride out I attended was on the29th of that month. The ride was shown tobegin at 10.30 a.m. and so I arrived at 10.15a.m. I saw motorcyclists sat at tables in acafé area. Despite several attempts atconversation with one of them, I was virtuallyignored. No attempt was made to welcomeme. When they finally moved to the car park,I was asked my name. We eventually left thearea at 11.20 a.m.
At 12.20 a.m. they stopped at a pub carpark. No one told me what was happening,but I could not believe that after one hourthey were stopping for lunch. After waitingover an hour in the car park, I decided to rideon my own as it was a lovely sunny winter’sday.
I thought I should not judge too quicklyafter one bad experience, and so I attendeda club meeting. My idea of a club meeting isthat new members are introduced generallyto everyone else. I sat at a table with myorange juice (I have a clean license and Iwant to keep it). After an hour of sitting in apub I did not know with people I did notknow, I decided to leave. It was then that oneperson pulled a chair up to me and talked,this person was the ride co-ordinator I laterrealised.
I have been on four ride outs, two ofwhich did not reach the destination stated, Ihave been to two club meetings, and stilldon’t know anyone by name.
Maybe it is me, but I thought that being amember of a club meant being asked myopinion, voting on decisions and havingequal rights with everyone.
If this is the way the HOC normally acts,and on reading reports from other branches,it is not, then it is not for me. This is the firsttime I have joined any club of any kind.
As I stated at the beginning of my letter, Ihave written because you want to know whypeople leave, or do not renew theirmembership. I have not been welcomed and
I have not been offered friendship. It is clearto me why you do not refund anymembership fees, as I for one would ask formy money back.
Finally I would say this: I have been amotorcyclist (not biker) all my life. I have helda full license for over 44years. I have riddenHonda machines for the last 25 years, and Ihave assisted many people to get theirmotorcycle licenses, including my son.Honda machines for me are reliable, solidbikes and I will continue to ride andrecommend them.
Perhaps I am better riding on my own, asI was told to do by one member of the clubwhen I objected to riding at 80-90 mph on amotorway, which I never normally ride on. Iwas hoping for new friends by joining yourclub, however I meet friendlier people oncomfort breaks than I did at your club.
Yours regretfully,
R. Goodwin Member No 29615
Mr Goodwin (sorry about being formal,but you didn’t include your first name), I amvery sorry to read what you have written, asthis is not the way we normally treat newmembers to the club. If you would be goodenough to let me know the branch inquestion, I am sure the Chairman wouldwish to raise the matter with them.
I can only go on my own experienceswhen I joined the Solent branch some yearsago. I joined the HOC a year or so aftersuffering a very upsetting divorce, hoping tofind new friends and the beginnings of asocial life.
I can honestly say that I had never metsuch a warm, friendly and welcoming groupof people in the whole of my life. I wasaccepted from day one, and the friendships Ienjoy are one of the main reasons I feel sopassionate about this club.
I am sorry your experiences have beendifferent. Ed
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SUMMER 2006 7
CALLING ALL KENTMEMBERS!!!!
Hi there.
If you live in the Kent area and want tokeep up to date with HOC diary dates,events, news, join other HOC members inKent for the occasional ride out, etc, pleasedrop an email to
and I will forward you the Monthly MailOut and advise of any plans relating to theHOC in the Kent area.
You may be aware that the actual KentBranch folded last year, but if you have anyideas for activities or meeting at local bikingevents, please get in touch and maybe wecan get a network of Kent HOC members intouch with each other. Perhaps you wouldlike to advertise your bike or spares, ask foradvice/help relating to your bikes, or just findout if anyone else is intending to go whereyou are planning to go.
Like most people, I don't have masses ofmoney or spare time, but still manage to beactively involved in the Club and would behappy to keep you appraised of what's goingon.
It also gets kind of lonely being the onlyapparent Kent members at rallies - theremust be more of you out there!! Drop me anemail and we'll get a Kent email group going,
Maybe in time the Branch will resurrect!!!
Debbie MillardLonely in Kent!,
What a super idea Debbie, good luck.We know from many of the shows we
attend that there are members in variousareas that are keen to start a branch. Thereasons they don’t are numerous, includingpressure of time, pressure of work, and inmany cases, not knowing what is required. Ifanyone is looking to start a branch, they canbe assured of enthusiastic help andguidance from many, but if the task stillseems too daunting, how about an e-mailgroup to begin with. Ed
I just wanted to take a few lines to saythank you to all those people who havesent in contributions for this magazine.
As far as front cover pictures go, a bigthank you to all those who have sent insuggestions, many of which will be usedin coming issues, so don’t worry if yourshas not appeared yet.
Thank you also to those who havesent in articles and photos, all of whichbroadens the variety of what we produce.Please keep them coming.
Lastly, and by no means least, a hugethank you to Erica Gassor who has takenover looking after advertising in themagazine. This was always a job that Inever quite had time to do properly, andthe way Erica has taken it on board canbe seen by the extra variety and numberof advertisers there are in this issue. Ifyou are thinking of making a purchase,please consider our advertisers, all ofthem pay to advertise and the revenuethis generates is essential to the runningof the club. If you are an advertiserthinking of taking space, please contactErica direct, whose details are on page 1of this issue.
Keep it tidy
Tim
EEEEDDIITTOORRDDIITTOORR SSSSAAYYSSAAYYSS ((((CCOONNTTCCOONNTT ))....))....
Kicking BackKicking BackLetters for the next issue need
to arrive by 1st September 2006
E-mail to [email protected]
or post to:Golden Wing, Units 1B & 5B
Kemps Quay Industrial ParkSouthampton.
SO18 1BZ
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8 SUMMER 2006
MMMMEEMMBBEERRSSHHIIPPEEMMBBEERRSSHHIIPP MMMMAATTTTEERRSSAATTTTEERRSS ............
WELCOMEWelcome to those of you who joined
us at the rather wet weekend at the
BMF show and at the ACE Honda day
on the Spring Bank Holiday Monday.
A special welcome to Nikolay
Vyglazov of London, who is going to
ride to his homeland (Russia) this
summer on his CBR 600. Hopefully a
report of his experiences will appear in
‘Golden Wing’.
THANKS A special thank you to John Walsh,
one of our life members for his donation
of £50 to club funds, also matched with
a similar amount to his branch. This is
much appreciated.
DIRECT DEBITAs you will have read in Dibble’s
report, we have now managed to
establish a direct debit system for
membership. Not only will this save the
club a lot of money in printing, postage
and administration, it will make it much
less hassle for members.
When you next receive your
membership renewal, you will be
offered the opportunity of using Direct
Debit, and we would encourage you to
do this.
Gone will be the days of writing a
cheque, finding and envelope, buying a
stamp and taking it to the post box; you
will simply receive your new
membership card through the post each
year shortly after your renewal date.
MOVING?Don’t forget if you move, let me
know, and no other club official, as I
keep the address files up to date, (You
can write or send an email). We get
several copies of each magazine
returned by Royal Mail each issue so
don’t let it be YOU who we lose contact
with.
Graham Gull
Membership Secretary
Graham Gull
61 Vicarage Road
Ware SG12 7BE
CCCCHHHHAAAANNNNGGGGEEEE OOOOFFFFAAAADDDDDDDDRRRREEEESSSSSSSS
PPPPlllleeeeaaaasssseeee sssseeeennnndddd cccchhhhaaaannnnggggeeeeooooffff aaaaddddddddrrrreeeessssssss ddddeeeettttaaaaiiii llllssss
ttttoooo tttthhhheeee MMMMeeeemmmmbbbbeeeerrrrsssshhhhiiiippppSSSSeeeeccccrrrreeeettttaaaarrrryyyy,,,,
nnnnooootttt ttttoooo GGGGoooollllddddeeeennnn WWWWiiiinnnngggg....
TTTThhhhaaaannnnkkkkssss .... .... .... ....EEEEDDDD
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:46 Page 8
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:46 Page 9
If anyone is in possession of pictures which they feel will make a suitable CaptionCompetition, then please send them in to:
Golden Wing, Units 1B & 5B, Kemps Quay Industrial Estate, Quayside Road, Southampton. SO18 1BZ
or e-mail me at [email protected](If sending pictures by e-mail, please send at 300 dpi or greater)
Again, the postbag held agood selection of entries,including a number frompeople who haven’t previouslyhad a go. The winners arelisted below.
1st Prize: An HOC Club Sweatshirt to:Penny Blake (29746) with -
“Penny`s latest attempt at jumping cars on a motorcycle didn`t quite go as planned'”
2nd Prize: An HOC Club Polo Shirt to:John McKee (29741) with -
“No! You can’t give me a ticket, it’s the bike that’s parked on double yellows!!”
3rd Prize: An HOC Club T Shirt to:Keith Gilby with -
“I told him that motorcycling in Italy was dangerous"
Now try this one Same Rules - Same Prizes
CAPTION COMPETITIONCAPTION COMPETITION
My thanks to Amanda Barnard forsending in this picture taken at the SolentRally this year. I know that once again wemanaged to book some hot sunny weatherfor the weekend, but.....................
Email entries to [email protected]
Although not a winner, one from John Hancock is worthy of a mention, as it is what wasactually said to him by a Volvo driver in Sainsbury’s car park at Hedge End..
“I can park in the motorcycle bay, because I have a motorcycle at home !”
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:46 Page 10
TIPPETTS
Tippets of Surbiton, who we aredelighted to see advertising with us, havebeen trading for the past 83 years, since Mr.Walter Tippett first opened business in1919. Repairing motor cars on ArlingtonRoad, Surbiton till 1937. The firm thenmoved to its present location on the EwellRoad. By now the main focus of thebusiness had shifted of motorcycles and asteady supply of AJS and Matchlessmachines passed through the doors.
The Company was continued by PhilAlexander and Jack Wheeler who bought awealth of enthusiasm and hard work to bearon the venture and in 1959 Tippetts Motors(Surbiton) Ltd was launched as a LimitedCompany. A stoke of luck in helping Hondato retain the Mordes Trophy resulted in theoffer of the Honda Franchise and so Tippetswere the second British Honda Dealerappointed and remains the only originalsolus dealer in the country. Of course, itwasn’t all hard work. There was lots of funas well. Usually this was the result of some‘error’ on the part of one or both of the ‘boys’
(Phil or Jack) – like the time they had alarge order for six bikes and were in such arush to make sure that they were on theroad on time that they took one end of abike each to prepare – this resulted withunmatched numbers plates on the front andrear!
Tippets built a ‘new’ workshop in the1970’s but it nearly didn’t happen when thePolish crew, delivering the prefab buildinggot lost in the Lake District for 3 days!.(Having been to this wonderful part ofEngland, I reckon this was on purpose!).However it finally turned up and wasfinished in the pouring rain, just in time forthe launch of the GL 1100DXB.
As time marches on we are delighted tosay so have Tippetts who are now not onlythe longest established Honda Dealer butalso one of the finest.
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12 SUMMER 2006
SITTING COMFORTABLY?Some of you older members may
remember children's hour on the radio and
the friendly ‘uncle’ announcer asking "are
you sitting comfortably?"
Well, yes I am and that is just about all I
am doing. In fact I have done little else for
the past seven weeks but ‘sit comfortably'.
Just about the only relief I have had from
‘sitting comfortably’ have been short periods
of extreme discomfort!
I have moved on from accepting the
initial commiseration's from friends and
family and the ‘you are very lucky, it could
have been a lot worse’. Visits have become
less regular and I have overheard people
inquiring of my wife ‘what sort of mood is he
in today’.
You have probably guessed by now that
I am incapacitated. OK, so it is not life
threatening. Yes I know there are a lot of
people far worse of than myself. OK, so I
don't have to worry about getting to work to
keep the family in food and lodgings. Yes I
know that I am lucky!
But I am BORED! True, the plaster on
my left foot does allow me to hobble about.
I can get out in the garage and even down
the garden, but it is the limited movement of
my left arm cause by the aftermath of a
seriously displaced shoulder that is the main
problem.
But that is not quite true. My main
problem is my mental attitude. I was not
prepared to be, even temporarily,
incapacitated.
Motorcyclist talk quite a lot about
protective clothing. We prepare our body
with protective armour, leather and other
specially made clothing. I my case my
armoured Cordura riding coat suffered only
a couple of square inches of surface melt -
no penetration. My Heine Gericke Tuareg
trousers suffered a bit of a scuff on the
leather seat with some 3 inches of stitching
worn through and a bit of damage to the
Cordura - but no penetration. My leather
gloves and boots both had a slight scuff.
This was all ‘slide’ damage at about 30 mph.
If I had just had the slide, I would have
got up and walked away with no problem.
The problem was caused by the fall. My
armour may well have reduced my injuries,
but it doesn't offer much of a ‘crumple zone’.
I think we have to accept that on a bike, we
are the crumple zone!
The next time you are putting on your
biking gear, remember that you are the
crumple zone and give a little thought about
how you will manage if you are only
temporarily incapacitated. The best you can
expect is to become completely bored!
I think that perhaps all motorcyclists
should have a back up hobby of philately,
needlework or perhaps water colour
painting, just in case.
As a postscript - my Varadero has been
written off, the car driver involved in my
incident is being prosecuted by the police, it
will probably be another 6/8 weeks before I
can even think about riding again, I am
looking for a new bike - something a little
lower than a Varadero!
In the last issue of Golden Wing I said
that I would be riding down to Sicily for the
Varadero International meeting. Change of
plans. I will now looking at flying and picking
up a hire car at the airport - for about a third
of the cost of going by bike!
Barry Tinson
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:47 Page 12
SUMMER 2006 13
Thank you to the hundreds of memberswho took the time to complete the survey -either on paper or on-line.
Here is a précis of the informationgathered, full details can be found in theMembers Area at;www.hoc.org.uk/members/surveyresults.html
About YouThe first thing to say is that over 90% of
the respondents were over the age of 41 butjust over a third of those are over 51. Thereis therefore a wealth of biking experience,with 69% having over 20 years on the road.
Surprisingly only 34% of you have takenan advanced riding course. Of those thathave taken a course, by far the mostpopular was from the Institute of AdvancedMotorcyclists.
The vast majority of you also haveaccess to a car, with only 21% using thebike as their principal form of transport. Thisis reflected in bike usage with only 12% ofyou travelling over 10,000 miles a year andusing it mostly at weekends for pleasureonly.
The BMF is the most popular club (otherthan the HOC - of course!) with over twiceas many members in it as it’s nearest rival,MAG. Single type clubs are frequented byonly 20% of the HOC members.
More than half of you go to the BMFShow and NEC bike shows, other bike andclassic shows were also popular, but withonly 13% of you going to them.
About Your BikesMost of you, 55%, have only one bike.
The most popular bike is the multi-talentedVFR, with the Pan European coming a closesecond. The most popular classic machineis the CB750. Your bikes are also quite new;47% being under 5 years old and only 24%being in the classic bracket of over 10 yearsold. Less than 1% don’t actually own aHonda.
About Your MembershipA quarter of you joined as a result of a
friend telling you about the Club and nearly20% joined at the NEC. 59% joinedprincipally for the runs out and socialactivities, which is ironic as over half of youhaven’t taken part in any Club or Branchactivities!
One in five say they want Sundaybreakfast and all-day runs, with the nextpopular being dealer open days.
Two thirds of you have a Branch nearyou, but only half of you actually go.However this is explained by the busylifestyles that we lead, with over half of youother commitments on the nights that theymeet. Four fifths of those that didn’t have abranch locally would like one, but it must beunder 20 miles away! Unsurprisingly, no-one would travel over 60 miles to get to theirbranch meeting.
Happily only 3% wont be renewing theirmembership, which means that the vastmajority of you will continue with the HOC.
HOC WebsiteMost of you (84%) have internet access
and 60% already have access to theMembers Area. Happily a third of youactually look at the site more than once aweek.
Two thirds of you would renew yourmembership on the net - so you’ll be happyto hear that we are working on that.
Congratulations to Tim Palin who wins ayears free membership or a Club T-shirt.Please contact Justin with you preference.
Thanks to everyone who said that theHOC was great as it is! But I can assure youthat all your suggestions, on how to improvethe Club, will be looked at very closely andby taking all your ideas we can give youmore of what you want and make the HondaOwners Club even better.
Strtchy
MEMBERSHIP SURVEYMEMBERSHIP SURVEY
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:47 Page 13
I bought my black beauty in November
of 2002 and have loved every mile that I’ve
ridden on her. She’s called Ermintrude,
because of the CUD number plate, the guys
in the Branch said it was either that
or Daisy!
I call her a CX1100 because as
far as I’m concerned she’s a direct
descendant of the much loved
CX500 maggot. They’ve both got a
cross frame V engine, shaft drive,
styling that you either love or hate
and ‘interesting’ handling
characteristics - I reckon Honda
missed a trick by calling her the ST.
I use her almost every day and
have put over 37,000 miles on the
clock since I got her.
The thing I love the most is the
unhurried way that she’ll take me to 3 figure
speeds and sit there all day, no fuss, no
drama and 45 miles to the gallon.
The best fun is in the twisties. OK she’s
no sports bike, but when handled properly
and set up for corners, she can upset the
odd Power Ranger who gets in my way.
Some people complain about the weekend
warriors who can’t ride for toffee - I say
“bring em on!” there can be nothing more
disheartening than to see a barn door with
twin headlights loom in their mirrors and slip
past them on a bend.
She’s fitted with bike-to-bike Autocom
and darkened indicators (that’s the added
blackness) and shod with Bridgestone 020
tyres.
I wouldn’t swap my Ermintrude for
anything. I did consider a BlackBird, but
where’s the challenge in riding a 200mph
bike fast? I have to work to get the best out
of my CX1100 and that’s the way I love it.
Stritchy
14 SUMMER 2006
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Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:48 Page 15
16 SUMMER 2006
DDDDOOWWNNOOWWNN YYYYOOUURROOUURR WWWWAAYYAAYYReports from the Branches
To say it's been busy over the last few
weeks would be an understatement! Well,
that’s my excuse for not getting this in earlier
anyway. With the season well underway it’s
been a whirl of runs and rallies since the last
Golden Wing.
Considering the appalling weather we
were amazed at the turnout for our rally at
the end of May. Our second highest
attendance ever. It threw it down on the
Friday and Saturday mornings, but luckily
it’s a well drained site and it remained dry for
the evenings and the Saturday BBQ. We
had a band for the first time (hopefully to be
repeated next year), that were a great
success, though the marquee could have
been bigger! My thanks to all those that
pitched in to help with the event, and to our
guests who showed tremendous fortitude
under the initial conditions.
We are still holding our weekly meets at
the Chequers in Streatley, as the Lynmore is
still closed after all this time, and does not
appear to be re-opening in the near future.
Not as a pub anyway. We’ll just have wait
and see what happens, although the
majority of the branch seem happy enough
with our new home.
As most of you will know the national
rally is now booked for Tenby in South
Wales in September. We budgeted taking 20
caravans and 15 tent pitches and so far we
have booked 18 caravans and 13 pitches.
We have handed back the two surplus
caravans to avoid losing the deposits but
can still take bookings right up to a week or
so before the event for camping, so it’s still
not too late if you are still thinking of going.
The venue is booked, we have a
comedian and a disco for Saturday night
and we’re trying to find someone clever to
do the quiz for Sunday night. South Wales
branch have been in touch about sorting out
a run or two for is so it’s all gradually coming
together. We’ve even got the shirts and
badges ordered!
Balances for the caravans are due in for
the end of June, so if you’re reading this and
haven’t coughed yet, you’re late and we’ll be
sending the boys round to collect the dues
and rough you up a bit! You have been
warned……
I’m running out of steam now and still
recovering from a fantastic weekend in the
New Forest at the Solent rally so I’ll sign of
now until the next issue.
See you at the National?
Enjoy the summer.
Graham
BEDFORDSHIRESecretary: Graham Seymour - 01438 357398
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18 SUMMER 2006
BIRMINGHAMSecretary: Dave Langdon - 07834 696833
Well we are now half way through 2006and the weather has still been workingagainst us. We have had a couple ofSunday Ride outs and they have been verywell attended. The weather was kind for thefirst two but unfortunately let Trevor downbig style. They intended going around thePeak district but as the weather looked a bitdubious they decided to follow what theythought was the better weather route andwent to Northwich to the Thundersprint. Welltheir wet weather gear got a good tryout butI am assured that it was still and enjoyableday out in spite of instead of because of.
By the time this goes to print we willhave had our Cheddar weekend at the YHAHostel and if the other 3 years are anythingto go by it will have been an excellentweekend under the expert organisationalskills of Nick.
The week end after that a number of usare intending to descend on the Solent lot attheir rally in the New Forest. Again, a
permanent fixture on the calendar forsome of us but I believe someconverts will be joining us this year.
There are some changes afoot atthe club regarding venue and thesemay well be in place by the time thisis published but we are looking to
holding the 2nd meeting of the month at alocal hostelry which is also on a very goodbiking route. The intention is to either chillout in company at the pub or take anevening bike ride around some of the backroads locally...or do both. The choice is forthe individual. It will also make it easier onRichard at Sutton Motorcycles, who hasbraved all elements to open up for usreligiously twice a month for about 4 yearsnow.
Hopefully by the time you read this ourwebsite will be up and running again. I haveheard that we will be on a new server soonand all the domain names will be up andrunning. As soon as I get the go ahead I willbe updating the site for its relaunch.
Well it only leaves me to say enjoy theroads, enjoy your bike and enjoy thecompany of fellow members but most of allbe safe.
Dave Langdon
Stipperstones
Northwich
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SUMMER 2006 19
Even after mail shotting members in our
area and putting fliers up in the local dealers
we still see lack of members turning up to
branch meetings.
Now the better weathers with us
hopefully we'll see more members attending
the meetings. The most members we've
seen is 7 on Tuesday 25th April when we
had our 1st branch ride out to Monmouth
and Wye valley. Please see diary dates for
more rideouts.
4.14pm May 27th saw the arrival of our
youngest member, Lou my partner gave
birth to our son Jacob. At the moment he's
awake every 3 hours for a bottle, he will be
with us at the national rally. Question is do I
put a sidecar on my bike now? Nope,
because the bike could be my escape route.
Time for bottle duty again so better sign
off for now
Ian
Contact: Ian Jefferson 07706 172488BRISTOL
Jacob
Proud Dad
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:48 Page 19
20 SUMMER 2006
I am sitting writing this report on theTuesday after the BMF Show weekend. Inever realized how knackering thatweekend actually is. Still, more about thatlater.
The year started off busy and just gotbusier. We began with a meal at a Chineseall you can eat restaurant. Seventeen of usturned up for this (food was a decidingfactor) and a grand time was had by all,except for Andy who came out to go homeand found a Denver boot attached to hiswheel. It cost him eighty quid to get his carunclamped! When in Cambridge, beware offatherless knuckle draggers bearing yellowplates
Next, we had a ride out to MarshallHonda in Peterborough who had an openday. Bit parky, but it stayed dry. We had aburger (except poor Stacky who had abacon roll and then didn’t know which end topoint at the toilet first).
In March we went to the GranthamHonda open day. We met Roy Edwards andfellow members of the Lincs branch there. Itwas sleeting a bit but we still took their bikesout for a quick blast. Afterwards we went fora late pub lunch (can you see a patternforming yet?
We paid a visit to the Imperial WarMuseum, Duxford in April. It’s funny,although we are quite close to Duxford, noteveryone had actually been there before. Itwas very interesting to see all therestoration work going on. Afterwards, wewent for a late pub lunch/early eveningmeal.
The following Saturday we had a ride outto Muckleborough Museum on the NorthNorfolk coast. As I was leading it wasinevitable that a couple of detours would beon the cards, but we got there eventually.From there, we went to Wells-next-the-Seafor fish and chips. The weather, althoughbitterly cold, decided it wasn’t bad enough,so it started chucking it down with rain as
well. Did I forget to mention the strongwinds? Believe me, it’s a bit unnerving ridingbehind a Gold Wing and watching it movingdown the road leaning right over just to keepit in a straight line.
On May Day we went to theSandringham Craft Fair. The weatherlooked like it had picked up from where it leftoff from the previous ride, but it did improveas the day wore on. We had a good fewhours there and then went on to Hunstantonfor yet more fish and chips (except me, I hada pie, and it’s starting to show).
On the 7th of May we went bowling inCambridge followed by a Chinese meal (thistime Andy parked in the car park). Ian wasthe only one to bring his own bowling ballwhich he promptly dropped onto his footbefore we even started and couldn’tparticipate. Sympathetic people crowdedaround to take photos for the branchmagazine. I don’t know, bloody paparazziget everywhere.
Next up, the BMF. There is a BMF reportelsewhere in this Golden Wing (hopefully)so all I will say is congratulations toeveryone who helped out, not only from ourbranch, but to all the other branches whomade the effort to come along and lend ahand. Thank you all.
The next ride out is to the LancasterAviation Heritage at East Kirby, Lincs onBank holiday Monday. Some of the club aregoing to Normandy at the beginning of Junefor a week, and a few more will be joining usnear Le Touquet for a long weekend.
A weekend in Derbyshire looks to be onthe cards in July as well as the Flying Promsat Duxford.
In August we have the alternative WorldSuperbike BBQ at Roger and Sue’s OffRoad Centre, a lunch run to Foxton Locksas well as a BBQ at Roger and Nina’s place.
Safe riding,
Bill
CAMBRIDGESecretary: Bill Brown - 01480 382295
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:48 Page 20
Devon and Somerset H.O.C. WeekendWidemouth Bay Holiday Park, Cornwall
13th, 14th, 15th 16th,October 2006
BOOKING FORM
Name: ____________________
Address: ____________________
____________________
____________________
Price £75 for a caravan that sleeps up to 6
Please make cheques payable to:John Fowler Holidays
Send to : Jill Moore, 31 Willshere Road, Barnstaple,
Devon EX32 8EL
No later than September 1st 2006
WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING YOU
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:49 Page 21
22 SUMMER 2006
Eastern Branch members have
been getting out and about despite
the weather, with a Branch run to
Bridlington on April 1st. Ken, Dek,
Mick, Graham and myself went
down to the Classic Bike Show at
Stafford. Its good to see the
restored bikes, reflect on the value
of bikes previously owned and
wonder at the prices asked for
lumps of rusty metal.
Various members of the branch
are known for their tightness, being
one of those members I can say
that’s no bad thing. This has
resulted in great piss taking when said
members are actually spotted doing any
kind of spending what so ever.
Myself, Ken & Joyce, Dek and Graham
camped at the BMF members rally and
enjoyed the event despite very wet weather.
We met up with Bob and his wife, at the
Honda stand, who had come down for the
day on Sunday. Graham discovered a new
motorcycle manufacturer called ‘Ahamay’,
known to everyone else as Yamaha.
The Honda Owners
Club stand was excellent, a
credit to the hard work of
the members setting up
and running it. It
deservedly won best Club
stand.
It’s good to see some
new members turning up at
the meetings and I hope to
see them on some of the
club runs this summer.
Regards
John
Secretary: John Hewson - 01469 560306EASTERN
Graham spends money!
Waiting to get into the BMF Members Rally again!
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:49 Page 22
SUMMER 2006 23
Dek, what do you expect for £85
Dek actually parts with
cash!
As an OAP can you afford that Mick?
April Fool Run
Eastern Members enjoying the hospitality
of the HOC stand
Dek, Joyce & Ken
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:49 Page 23
24 SUMMER 2006
Gloucester is still battling on. Now that
the calendar is off and running there is more
indication that there is a future for the
branch. We started off in April with two
promotional events and were quite pleased
with the feedback. They were firstly the
Bikesafe weekend at Cheltenham.
Fantastic weather and good hospitality from
both Bransons and the Honda trailer team
who allowed us to have our table etc in the
public area under cover. Myself Jason and
Ian from Bristol manned the stand over the
weekend. The second promotional
weekend was the Bransons Open Weekend
over Easter. This again was encouraging
and thanks to the hospitality of Paul
Branson and his team at Gloucester.
With regards to our meeting nights going
to one a month, and going out to
surrounding areas to sample the
abundance of local hostelries. We have had
a mixed response to this, and we cannot
say if it is working or not. The meetings
clash with the local IAM branch, who have
nobled a few of our members in the past.
We have had a number of past non-
attending members contact us following the
reports in the Golden Wing, and also the
fact that we have our calendar in the MCN
when there is a meeting or ride out. The few
ride outs so far have had from three to
fifteen riders turn out. We will have to see
how things look at the end of the season.
To summarize, communication and
member awareness appears to have been
the demise of the club of late. Thanks to the
contents of this publication and our diary
details in the pages of MCN. It seems to
have shown we still exist, but getting more
people to involve themselves is proving
hard. Good support from the local dealer is
helping, and hopefully with the new
involvement of Honda UK we will continue
to see more of a recovery.
Tale of Woe: -
Following a low speed spill in March,
there was the need for a crash repair. Three
months later, and with the excess paid, with
an insurance bill of over £2500, the bike is
returned. I noticed the smell of petrol and
commented to the repairer. Must have
overfilled it, (Haven’t we all on a long
weekends ride). After a further 500 miles
and another couple of re fills I was still
smelling petrol. The bike breaks down. The
cause being water in the fuel injection
system, along with blistered paintwork in the
rim of the new tank that was fitted in the
crash repair. So, back to the repairer who
diagnosed a blocked overflow pipe; could
be road dirt! Everyone else says it’s more
likely a repainted tank that allowed the new
paint to block the overflow. Didn’t the
insurance company pay for a new tank?
Moral of the tale: - The removed parts
following a crash repair cannot be returned
to the insured as you would have been seen
to have gained from the claim. However,
there is nothing saying that you are not
entitled to see the old damaged parts to
ensure they have in fact been removed and
replaced, not repaired.
Cheers all,
Ian Nie
Secretary: Ian Nie - 01453 752098GLOUCESTER
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26 SUMMER 2006
HUNTS MOTORCYCLES
A familiar site to Manchester bikers,
Hunts Motorcycles has been established in
the same position on Kingsway, South
Manchester for many years. Following a
recent showroom expansion Hunts is now
one of the largest independent Honda
dealers in the country.
Hunts MD John Brown explains: “the
growth of the business over the past few
years has meant that we were keen to
expand. We have been established for over
50 years, and didn’t want to move so
extending the building gives us all the space
we need. We now have the facility to display
many more new and used bikes and to offer
a much wider selection of parts,
accessories and clothing as well as
providing more customer parking. The
investment we’ve made in the expansion of
our business makes Hunts truly a ‘1-stop
shop’ for motorcyclists with everything for
both bike and rider.”
The expansion also includes additional
customer comforts including a new rest
area with free tea and coffee, satellite TV
and even internet access. You can also
have a look at some classic bikes from
John’s own collection including a brand new
RC30, a rare Honda Dream 50, a new
RC51 SP-1 and one of the very first series
of Fireblades brought to the UK.
Want to test ride a bike? – Hunts can
arrange a test ride on any of their new or
used machines. John says: “We found that
many customers were having difficulty
getting a test ride on the bike that they
wanted to buy. For that reason we have
always made sure that we have a very
comprehensive range of demo bikes
available at all times”. Indeed Hunts are
currently offering a free weekend loan of the
Varadero XL1000V as part of their V-Tours
programme which has proved very popular.
Hunts have also spent the past 12
months developing their website which has
comprehensive details of the Honda range,
latest special offers and a wide selection of
used bikes. “We are very pleased with the
way in which the website is working. We get
enquiries from all over the UK for both new
and used bikes and parts and accessories
and can quickly update any special offers or
promotions. We’ve recently added a section
with detailed pictures of all our used bikes
which is already proving very popular”.
If you are in the Manchester you can be
assured of a warm welcome at Hunts
Motorcycles. If you can’t get into the
showroom though, you can still take
advantage of the many great deals as Hunts
offer a nationwide delivery service for both
new and used bikes. To find out more, you
can call Hunts on
0161-432 1303or visit the website at
www.huntsmotorcycles.co.uk.
By the way, don’t forget to mention the
HOC to claim your 10% discount on parts,
accessories or clothing!
Hunts Motorcycles have secured a
limited number of '06' Tri-Colour (similar to
the Africa Twin colour) non-ABS Varadero
XL1000V's. And we would like you to try one
for a weekend!
ADDENDUMAs you know, the Varadero is the
ultimate adventure machine and has a
superb record for customer satisfaction and
model loyalty. So many satisfied Varadero
riders can't be wrong and at just £6499
BRAND NEW on the road you can't fail to
be even more impressed!
This is an excellent opportunity for
current owners to try out the latest model
and for those who haven't ridden one before
to put the Varadero 1000 through it's paces.
Places are limited and availability will be
on a first-come, first-served basis, so please
phone John Brown as soon as possible to
register on 0161-432 1303.
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:50 Page 26
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28 SUMMER 2006
Well it’s been a cracking year so far up
here in the Manchester area, our ride outs
are going from strength to strength and our
meetings are well attended, which would
seem to be against the trend I’m glad to
report.
We started the year with a run to
Blackpool in January and although the
weather was a bit on the cold side, we had
15 bikes with 2 pillions turn up. After an easy
ride through the country it was fish and chips
for all, mainly because the pub we chose to
go in didn’t like crowds or kids. Possibly just
bikers, not had that happen for a long time.
Still it put no one off and we even finished off
with a bit of a paddle.
At the end of January we took part in
Hunts, our local dealer and friend, open day
with test rides on some very nice bikes and
a chance to meet and chat with John
McGuiness, that quick guy from the Island.
A success for all involved and we got a
couple of new members to boot.
Norma’s, (our Chairman Alan’s better
half), world famous pancake run came
round again and though it was cold, very, we
had 19 bikes and 3 pillions turn up. I do think
that Norma’s wonderful pancakes had a
major role in that.
For me it was the first chance to get my
new SP1 out, not really the weather for a big
twin but could not resist it.
At Easter a few of us rented a house in
Calais for three days.
We set off in bright sunshine for an
adventure in France nothing could go
wrong.
Stopped for fuel in Maidenhead and
dropped the Blackbird in diesel on the
forecourt because the attendant had been
meaning to clean it up! Fortunately only a
broken hero peg, anyway we catch the
Chunnel and
into France.
What happened
to the sun? Took
it nearly a day to
make it across.
After a bit of
getting lost we
found the house,
it was large and
spacious and all
ours, the owners
had even left
some wine and
beer in the
fridge, how
civilised.
MANCHESTERSecretary: Stephen Davenport - 07970 729384
SP1
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SUMMER 2006 29
Unfortunately Rona brought a
bug that her husband Phil had had
with her and it put her out for 24
hours, so they missed day two’s ride
out.
Sadly leaving Phil and Rona
behind we set off to Dunkirk, a great
ride there and we got to see the local
towns and villages. We walked the
beach and found a large German
bunker complex that just had to be
explored, very interesting.
Back to the bikes for more
excursions into France and there’s a
nail in my front tyre, thank God for
creating tyre weld. It might be 20p
for air in the UK but you have to
leave your passport in France.A few
good meals and a couple of drink’s
round the open fire nights later, and
it’s time to return to Blighty.
The sun shone on us for our
return and even made it back across
the Channel this time. We were
making excellent time and thought
we would be home by late afternoon,
when Phil’s chain snapped on the
A14; fortunately it didn’t cause the
bike to go down so it was just a case
of waiting for the AA and wondering
how a six month old chain can snap?
The good thing for all else involved in
the trip was that Phil and myself seemed to
have everyone’s bad luck.
Bringing us up to date with the clubs last
ride out, Port Maerion. It’s 10 am and 23
degrees, 14 bikes 4 pillions for this one.
Mostly new people as some of our regulars
have holidays and the like, always good to
see new faces. The ride into Wales was as
always brilliant, good tarmac lot’s of bends
so we made good progress and got to our
destination for just after 1pm.
We managed to negotiate discount
entry, not sure if was because there were so
many of us, or because they thought we
were OAP’s. Everyone had a good lunch, a
walk round the village and some even went
for a paddle. Just had to keep avoiding a
large white beach ball, not sure what that
was all about.
Anyway that is just a small insight into
our year so far, all details and ride pictures
can be found at our web site
www.manhoc.co.uk.
I would just like to take this opportunity
to thank all of those involved in our branch
and all who regularly turn up for meetings
and ride out’s. It’s you that make its
continued success and popularity possible.
From Manchester, keep it rubber side
down.
Steve Davenport
Hunts Open Day
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:50 Page 29
30 SUMMER 2006
It’s hard to believe that the annual
Branch holiday to France has been and
gone already. All those months of arranging
and waiting over in a flash, and it has now
become just another memory, but a very
pleasant one all the same.
A good time was had by all, the digs and
location lived up to our expectations, and
France again provided us with that unique
blend of great food, fantastic roads through
lovely scenery and a warm welcome for us
bikers wherever we went.
The weather was generally o.k, however
we did get caught out a couple of times. The
worst was when we had been up to the top
of the Puy de Dome, where it rained heavily.
Coming away, we headed off to the spa and
ski town of Mont Dorre for some lunch, a run
of about fifteen to twenty miles during which
we got caught in a very heavy hail storm
which was not only very wet but pretty
painful as well. The problem was that the
winding mountain road didn’t offer us a
chance to pull over and shelter, so we had
no choice but to carry on and ride through
the storm which got so bad that the hail was
resting on the road and made the bikes feel
as though we were riding on marbles.
Other days out took us up to Vichy and a
long ride down to Milleau to take a ride over
the amazing bridge, (see front cover). The
rest of the time we spent pleasing ourselves
with shorter rides around the area we were
staying in, and chilling out at the chateau,
playing boules and generally lazing around.
Back home and we continue to meet
every Wednesday at the “10 o’clock” with a
ride out on alternate weeks.
We would like to congratulate and thank
our chums at the Cambs branch who took
over the organising and running of the HOC
stand at this years BMF show after we had
been doing it for the past hundred years. A
brilliant effort and a fresh eye on the event
saw them take the premier prize for the Best
Club Stand at this years show, very well
done guys, same again next year then?
The next few months will see us heading
of to attend the Brooklands day, and the
National rally in Tenby. We also have some
Sunday runs coming up, and also the
Sunday Dinner ride, so join us along the
way.
Last but not least, July sees some of us
heading down to Weymouth to attend the
wedding of our long time friends and
honorary branch members Andy Brewer
(Jethro) and his lovely lady Chris.
Some of us spent a fair bit of time in
France trying to explain to Chris that she
was making one hell of a mistake marrying
a developing Fred Dibner look-alike, mm,
mm, but the poor besotted and brainwashed
child just wouldn’t listen.
So with a sigh and a shrug of the
shoulders, all we can now do is wish them
both lots of love and happiness for the
future, from all of us here at Northants &
M.K. I’m sure we are in for a weekend to
remember for a long time.
See you all at the national in September
Cheersmedears
Bri
NORTHANTS & M.KSecretary: Brian Dunn - 01604 404706
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SUMMER 2006 31
Hello from North London.
All is not doom and gloom! Following on
from the report of our homelessness in the
last ‘Golden Wing’, after several temporary
homes (including a Quaker meeting house
library) we were able to locate permanantly
at ‘The Kings Oak’, a well known biking
venue in Epping Forest. Thanks go to
Winston Sim and Roy Massey for helping us
out in our hour of need. It is an ideal venue,
and recently on clubnigthts we have even
been able to sit outside overlooking the
common and listening to the distant roar of
the traffic on the M25!
We had our annual run on 14 May, held
in memory of 4 of our branch members who
are no longer with us, which included some
of their favourite rides through Bedfordshire
and Cambridgeshire stopping off for a lunch,
this year at ‘The Fox’ just off the A14 at
Catworth.
By the time you read this we will have
had a day trip to France, and several of us
will be riding all night in the ACU National
Road Rally, chasing those 540 miles.
Other runs are planned, but a date in the
diary is September 10th, the annual Essex
Air Ambulance run from Basildon to
Harwich, always popular, with thousands of
bikes heading along the A12.
A special thank you goes to John Walsh,
an HOC life member and former Branch
Treasurer for his generous donation to
branch funds, it is much appreciated.
Ride safe,
Graham Gull
Contact, Tony Quigley 020 8556 5988 NORTH LONDON
N.E.S.SSecretary: Pete Farnham 07931 906394
I'll start with a good bye because bye
the time you will be reading this, my position
as NESS Branch Sec will be in the safe
hands of Pete. Need a bit of time to do my
things.
We have had ride outs booked this year
but response has been poor, not all the
weather.
Holidays this year seem to be couples
going and doing their own thing, easier to
book in one bike rather than a group.
Been a lull in getting new members but
the inquires have know started to come in.
Regards
John
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:50 Page 31
32 SUMMER 2006
NORTHUMBRIASecretary: Graeme Burrough - 07050 158 381
Seven guys and one lady, on seven
bikes set forth early on Saturday morning to
go to Switzerland to ride the eighteen
highest mountain passes.
The trip from Newcastle to Dover was as
usual uneventful with lunch being planned
at Tesco Dover. Unfortunately, Tesco
decided to renovate their entire café section
so the nearest MacDonald’s had to suffice.
Ferry crossing was smooth and on time
with only an hour’s ride through to Lille for
the first night’s stop.
Sunday saw the eight of us enjoy
sunshine as we rode south close to the
Rhine valley, taking a second nights stop on
the German/French border. Monday would
see a couple of hours to the high passes in
Switzerland!
We arrived at our hotel in Andermatt with
a cloudy but threatening sky having stopped
on the shores of Lake Luzern and just
finished tackling the Schollenen Gorge with
its twisting hairpins. Unloading the gear at
the hotel it was intended to ride three more
passes that afternoon. Setting off up the
Oberalp Pass the rain had finally found us
and at some 2200 metres. this was now
turning to sleet! We pressed on planning to
ride a ninety mile circular loop, but the rain
was now reaching mark nine out of ten in
ferocity, so we decided to leave the passes
until the morning.
Asking back at the hotel for the weather
forecast, we were told to head south
through the St Gottard tunnel towards the
Italian side where the weather was better.
After a ten and a half mile ride through the
tunnel we emerged into brilliant sunshine
and a route was plotted into the GPS for a
circular tour of Lake Maggiore. If you’ve
never had the chance to ride around this
lake then it has to be on your list of best
roads to ride. We caught the ferry across
the lake from Verbania for a few euros as
we were running short on time.
The quickest way back was to use the
motorway (vignette compulsory) back to the
St Gottard. We then attempted to cross the
St Gottard Pass but a group of English
bikers coming towards us, stopped to say it
was bad on the top with snow! Perhaps we
should have taken more notice of the car
drivers waving for
us not to proceed. It
was to be back
through the tunnel
and up through the
S c h o l l e n e n .
Coming out of the
tunnel, we were
greeted with what
could only be
described as a
“white-out”! Snow,
snow and more
snow but we had to
get through the
gorge.
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:50 Page 32
SUMMER 2006 33
Disaster; first hairpin mid-way up the
gorge saw three bikes down and one run off
into the rain gully. The snow was coming
thick and fast and even four wheel drives
were fitting chains to their tyres. An elderly
lady, Val, stopped to see if she could assist
and it was decided that Joyce would ride the
rest of the gorge in the car. Val rang for a
snow plough and sure as eggs are eggs, the
plough turned up and cleared the road
enough for us to ride. Imagine that in
England!
Next day the snow was as bad as ever
so we decided to have a
day off the bike and let
the train take the strain.
Off to Brigg, some two
hours away and more
beautiful sunshine. A
complete contrast to
what we left behind.
The train returned
through the Furka
tunnel and the snow had
gone as quick as it
came. Biking was back
on for tomorrow but the
very highest passes
were now blocked with
heavy snow.
I had made up fifteen different routes in
the GPS before leaving home “just in case”
so it was to plan B.
Back over the Oberalp, no rain only
sunshine now, across to the Julier another
road that has to be on “your list” with a
summit of 2284 metres above sea level. A
fast sweeping pass, that makes you go too
fast if you don’t keep your brain in check.
Dropping down to St Moritz, the Majora is
next to knock off the list. This pass is
absolutely stunning with mountains either
side of a
glistening lake,
true chocolate
box style. A
traffic hold up on
the next pass
saw me lead a
back road
through to the St
Bernadino Pass
again with bends
you only have
dreams of.
Climbing steeply
we all jumped as
a Swiss Army
tank fired several
rapid shots up
towards where
we were heading – scary or what?
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:50 Page 33
34 SUMMER 2006
The Spluggen Pass is a pass really for
experienced riders only when attempting
from the Italian side due to the pin sharp
hairpins on the way up. Not having counted
them, all I can say is that you get dizzy and
have to use ALL of the road to negotiate
each bend; great for honing your turning
skills.
Returning back to the St Gottard tunnel,
the tunnel was “closed” due to a huge rock
that fell from the hillside killing 2 people and
closing the north side of the motorway. How
were we going to get back to our hotel? I
stopped and said I would go to the Police to
ask, so we all rode to the village but one
member was spending more time viewing
the scenery than viewing forward and hadn’t
realised the group had stopped. Result?
One bike down the road, with the left side
now severely damaged. I had been trying to
get the group to ride in formation but only a
few had taken it on board. The formation
riding became second nature after this but
too late for this member.
The police told me to ride through the
tunnel on our bikes which is a bit
unnerving when you are the only
vehicles in a seventeen km long tunnel. Out
of the tunnel and guess what? Yes it was
snowing again! How can it be sunshine and
28 degrees ten miles away and minus 4
degrees on the other side? This time the
pass was not quite as bad with snow but still
slippery but ride-able to the top and the
hotel.
Awakening to Friday, it was now time to
retrace our steps back to England with only
the very highest passes not completed, but
we shall return next year (with snow chains
fitted?) Our new friend (Val) told us it had
never snowed like this in June since 1961.
They obviously didn’t know we were
coming!
Next conquest? The Austrian Tyrol and
the high passes of the Dolomites in October
2006. Hull-Zebrugge crossing and across
Germany for a two day ride to Austria. We
even have a local guide to show us the best
roads to ride and even test bikes to try out.
Watch this space!!
Regards,
Graeme
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:51 Page 34
SUMMER 2006 35
Well it certainly has been a busy
Spring at Oxford. With a brilliant weekend
away in North Wales, an excellent Honda
Test Ride morning at Abingdon Honda
(didn’t think I would see the guys returning
from an ‘escorted ride’ with grins from ear
to ear!!), a great weekend in St Ives and
an exciting ‘wind swept’ trip to Le Mans -
not to mention ride outs to the Classic Bike
Show, Portsmouth and Gloucester Docks
(not on the same day!),Thruxton BSB, the
Blue Bell Railway, the BMF and the National
Motor Museum. I don’t think any of us have
had much time to be at home!!!
Secretary: Erica Gassor - 07799 49 2235
OXFORD
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:51 Page 35
36 SUMMER 2006
YES it's BackThe Oxford Rally 2006
at "The Cross Hands Inn"Salford Hill, on the A44, Nr Moreton in Marsh. Glos.
Friday July 21st to Sunday 23rdTents : £8.00 per night Camper Vans £9.00 per night
Arrive Friday Night - Set up and meet friends
(and the Oxford Branch !! )
Saturday - Breakfast in pubor DIY, Ride Out, BBQ
Evening entertainment andraffle, starts 8.00 pm
Sun - Pack up and farewell
All bookings and money to be sent to:
Betty McCulloch, 30 Ansell Way, Milton under Wynchwood, Chipping Norton. OX7 6LU
Tel : 01993 832966 or e-mail: [email protected]
We have also enjoyed interesting
presentations at our Tuesday night
meetings from Rapid Skills Training, Avon
Tyres and Ultraseal. In between times we
have managed to fit in a Skittles Night, a
Quiz Night and a Top Box Sale!
With keen competition between our
Fantasy Road Racing Teams we are
watching the bike
racing with great
interest to see who had
the foresight to select
the winning team at the
end of the season!
You may get the
impression from this
that our members are
now all well exhausted
but I am delighted to
say this is not true as
they all appear to be
looking forward with
enthusiasm to the
second half of the
year’s activities – all
contributing ideas and
input. Watch this
space for more fun and frolic (well, perhaps
frolic is not quite the right word!) in the next
issue!
Erica
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:51 Page 36
SUMMER 2006 41
As I sit down to write this we have just
returned from our Solent Rally in the New
Forest. Again, everyone seemed to enjoy
themselves and the weather did us proud,
with it being hot and sunny for both days.
For those of you who asked about my
daughter Jadies’s sunburn, it has all healed
now! You know how it is with thirteen year
olds, Dad knows nothing, and advice that
factor four tanning oil was inappropriate for
the first day in the sun was filed under
“ignore”.
Once again, thanks are due to Barbara
and Alan for all the hard work they have put
into yet another successful year, especially
with Alan not being in the best of health.
Thanks also to all the other members who
devoted time, effort and energy; the event
wouldn’t be possible without a real team
effort.
The statistics from the weekend make
for some interesting reading. We had fifty
seven units book in, which was a little down
on last year. However, as the Solent Rally is
fast becoming recognised as a family
friendly event, there were actually as many
people as previously. We cooked and
served over 300 meals of one sort or
another over the weekend, of which 160
were breakfasts, and once again we
managed to judge the catering requirements
just right, only just running out of baked
spuds on the Friday evening.
For those of you who haven’t made it
down to our rally yet, make a “must do”
event for next year, most who come once
end up being regulars.
By the time you read this we will have
already held a run to see Poole Pirate take
on the Reading Bulldogs at the Speedway in
Reading. This will be followed by a run to the
HOC Open Day at Brooklands on the 6th
August and a run to the Popham Airfield
Auto Jumble on the 20th. A week later on the
27th, we are going to watch the hill climb at
Gorton Down near Salisbury, and looking a
little further ahead, the bonfire and fireworks
party at Pam & Dave’s on the 4th November
is not one to miss.
Well, that’s it from me for this issue. If
you live in our area, do pop down to one of
our club meetings, or, if sitting around
chatting is not your thing, join us for our bi-
weekly Wednesday evening ride outs to
“somewhere nice”.
Tim
SOLENTSecretary -Tim Lee 023 8025 2113
Branch Secretaries:
The deadline for the next Golden Wing is;
1s1st Sept Septtember 2006ember 2006
These pages are your advertising space, to let
members who are local to you know the real
benefits of active membership. Tell them what is
happening in your area
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:51 Page 41
42 SUMMER 2006
This is the first report from the newly
formed Sussex branch.
First of all, many thanks to everyone who
attended, especially Graham and Andy who
made such a long journey to support us.
Your assistance and guidance has been
invaluable in helping things get off to a flying
start. A total of 23 people attended the Duke
of York at Sayers Common, which was a
very pleasant surprise – didn’t realize that
there were so many members in the area!.
The meet is now a regular event, second
Wednesday of every month, currently at the
Duke of York, but this may have changed by
the time this issue comes out. Dean takes
the register at 7.30pm, but if you can’t make
it by then you are welcome to just join us
when you can. If you wish to confirm details
of location (probably wise –we might have
moved by the time you read this), please
make contact with either Dean or myself at
[email protected] nearer the time, or
look in the website diary.
In any case wherever the meeting is you
will be assured of a very warm welcome.
And now a message from Tony about the
inaugural ride-out.
Hi all, just a note to thank those who
attended the first HOC Sussex Branch ride
out on Sunday 7th. To those that weren’t
able to attend, you missed a good morning’s
ride. The weather was very kind to us all and
kept improving to hot sunshine by the tea
break at Bury Hill. No rain at all which was
most welcome. The run for those who did
not make it was approx 75 miles 2 hours
riding in a circular route from the Café.
Breakfast was very good with the café
nearly full at 08:15 when I arrived, followed
shortly after by Chris & Helen. In all, seven
riders with six bikes made the run having
been joined by Alan & Dave from
Littlehampton. Thanks go to Peter Ring,
who although unable to make the run, came
out for a breakfast and to see us off.
The next route is in the planning stage
and will probably be a similar
length/duration, with the date to be decided.
See you all at the Duke of York for our
regular branch meetings, and if you have an
idea for a future runs it would be most
welcome, regardless of type and
destinations.
Best Regards
Tony
Thanks Tony!
Me again now: The next ride out is 21
May 2006, will report back in the next issue.
If anyone has any ideas for routes for
ride-outs, places to meet, ideally within
A23/A24 corridor please do get in touch.
Suggestions are always welcome, as are
offers from anyone who is able to make a
commitment, even in just the short term, to
help in running the club. Please bear in mind
that our hotmail account only has 1Gb of
memory, so please get in quick, otherwise
you might lose out because we did not get
your email.
I will be keeping the diary on the website
updated with details of runs and meets, or
you are always welcome to contact Dean or
myself directly for very latest updates.
Best wishes
Peter Ring
SUSSEXContact Dean Allgood - 01403 240265 / 07725 814107
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:51 Page 42
SUMMER 2006 43
Footman James was recently voted best
for insurance by UK bikers, for the second
year running. Achieving an overall rating of
more than 85 per cent, the specialist broker,
which covers nearly 51,000 bikes on the
UK’s roads, beat more than 33 competitors
to the top slot in the RiDER POWER 2005
awards.
Footman James has been providing
cover for specialist and classic marques for
more than 20 years and, in addition to this
business is now gaining a strong reputation
in modern car and motorcycle markets – in
2005, more than 30 per cent of all
motorcycle policies are for modern bikes.
Having developed strong links with a range
of motorcycle clubs Footman James are
able to offer discounts to club members.
The broker is particularly popular for its
competitive multi-bike policies; one
customer having more than 30 bikes on just
one policy!
And now Footman James is pleased to
be able to announce a discounted insurance
package with Honda Owners Club.
Following discussions with the club,
members will be able to get discounts off
modern and classic motorcycle policies (and
not just for Honda’s only; we will quote with
a discount for whatever you’re riding) as well
as discounts off other types of insurance i.e.
modern and classic car insurance, kit car
insurance and house and/or contents
insurance. The discounts are for the
members and quotes are available when
you ring 0845 330 9747 and give the clubs
unique reference HOC.
FOOTMAN JAMES AND HONDA OWNERS CLUB
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:51 Page 43
44 SUMMER 2006
Firstly I'd like to apologise for there not
being a Branch report from the South Wales
Branch in the last two Golden Wings, this is
partly due to computer problems and mostly
due to amnesia on my part, but thanks to a
reminder from Tim we made it this quarter.
Doing things in a chronological order I'll
start at the beginning of the year. In January
we held our AGM. Jeff Childs our Chairman
for the past two years decided to stand
down due to other commitments but has
remained involved in the club. I'm sure
everyone at the club would like to thank him
for all that he's done.
When it came to electing a new
Chairman there was really only one
candidate, Wayne Williams, having acted as
Deputy Chairman for the previous few
months. Mike Blewett agreed to stay on as
Secretary and as you can probably tell I
stayed on as Secretary.
The New Year started off with a
somewhat chilly ride out but I'll let our new
Chairman Wayne describe what happened.
Break The Ice Ride Out.14 intrepid riders set out on a cold
Sunday morning, 5 deg C, to have a ride up
to Blaenavon to visit the Big Pit. This is an
old coal mine not in use and is open for
underground visits by the public. It was an
interesting ride with the Brecon Beacons
covered in snow. This was a wonderful view
but did little to warm you up. We stopped at
road works on the heads of the valleys road
which at the high point is some 1350 feet
above sea level. It was at this point we
noticed the temperature had dropped to 2
deg C. This information was passed down
the line. I must say indicating the number 2
with your fingers down the line made some
of the other cars users give us funny looks!!
(think about it). We all went underground
and getting some 14 men and women bikers
in the mine cage was very interesting. Some
of the men had smiles all day.
SOUTH WALESSecretary: Paul Evans - [email protected]
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:51 Page 44
SUMMER 2006 45
The visit underground was very
interesting and we would recommend any
one travelling this way to call in. The men
who show you round are ex miners and
really know what they are talking about. We
managed to grunt our way through a "Coal
face". It was pointed out that it was 20 yards
long and not the normal 200 + yards. After
every one taking it in turns to hit their heads
on the roof we returned from 300 feet below
ground to enjoy a lovely meal in the Pit
Canteen. Great day out at a good venue.
As you can see from the photo it was
cold, and yes that really is snow in the
background.
The Ride outs have continued
throughout the year and a couple of weeks
ago several of our members went away for
a weekend in Devon. Thanks to Gareth and
Donna for arranging the trip. Once again I'll
let Wayne describe how it all went.
Weekend in Devon"Due to all the riders being Chapel going
people the weather for our weekend in
Devon could not have been any better.
Setting off from the warm Welsh climate
it only got better by the mile. Not one piece
of wet proof gear was insight when we all
set off.
Cutting a swathe through the country
side to avoid the motorway was a real eye
opener Bedminster, Highbridge , Bridgwater
stopping for a picnic lunch at Tiverton.
There then followed a steady ride to our
stop at Churston which
is between Goodrington
and Brixham. The Inn
was full of roof beams
and history. Sitting
outside it became
apparent that the more
the drinks went down the
more historical every
one became. The Karma
Sutra etchings proved a
big hit with our treasurer
Mike, as I said the Inn
had every thing. A great
meal was served, the Chef being a top notch
with a CV to suit.
The following morning after much eggs,
bacon and other healthy food we all set of
for a coastal run which meant crossing the
river Dart on a ferry, much to our non sailing
member Lyn proved a challenge. A grateful
stop by the sea, saw a welcome ice cream
break. Never mind the street cred when its
hot its hot. The sat nav on Gareth's bike was
very handy as those on Pans thought it was
to hot for U turns ( can't win can you). After
a full day out it was back to the inn and yes,
we sat outside with a drink to cool down.
Evening walk to Brixham, the distance
seemed to be a bit longer than the sign
posts but the coastal walk was ended with a
fish & chip supper. Lovely stop on the way
back home at Bickleigh by the river, pity we
were still full from breakfast as the Sunday
roasts they were preparing looked
marvellous. All back on diets thanks to a
great weekend organised by Donna &
Gareth "
If you fancy joining in any of our ride
outs, why not come along to one of our
meetings which are held on the Third
Wednesday of every month and the Llantwit
Fadre Sports and Social Club, Main Road,
Church village starting at 7:30pm or email
me for details of the next ride out.
Ride Safe
Paul Evans
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:51 Page 45
SepSepttember ember 22nd, 23r22nd, 23rd, 24th & 25thd, 24th & 25th
HOSTED BY:BEDFORDSHIRE BRANCH
HONDA OWNERS CLUB
AT
KILN PARK HOLIDAY PARK
TENBY
PEMBROKSHIRE, SOUTH WALES
INDOOR HEATED POOL
CHILDRENS ENTERTAINMENT
DEDICATED BAR
SHOP & OFF LICENCE
FOOD AVAILABLE
BED LINEN INCLUDED
CAMPING ON SITE
HOC SPECIFIC ENTERTAINMENT
PLEASE CONTPLEASE CONTAACCT GRAHAT GRAHAMMFFOR LOR LAATE ATE AVVAILAILABILITYABILITY
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:52 Page 46
BOOKING FORMNATIONAL RALLY 2006
September 22nd, 23rd, 24th & 25th Kiln Park Holiday Park, Tenby, Pembrokshire, South Wales
NoNo ££
Silver, 3 Bed, 8 Berth Caravan @ £195 eachGold, 3 Bed, 6 Berth Caravan @ £214 eachTourer/Motorhome Pitch @ £41 eachTent Pitch @ £31 each (based on 2 per tent)
P L E A S E C O N TA C T G R A H A M F O R AVA I L A B I L I T Y
Rally T-Shirt (£9.00) - Please Specify Number and Size
S................M..................L...................XL.............XXL.............
NameAddress
Branch
No in Party - Adults.......Children...... Membership No.........
Please make cheques for the full amount payable to:
HOC BEDFORDSHIRE
and send to:Graham Seymour, HOC Bedfordshire, 279 Wisden Road,
Stevenage, Hertfordshire. SG1 5NR
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:52 Page 47
48 SUMMER 2006
WEST LONDONSecretary: Steve Hill - 020 8291 5263
As you know West London Branch meet
at The Admiral Hawke Pub, Green Street in
Lower Sunbury, just off J1 of the M3.
We meet every Wednesday from 9pm
and would love to see any HOC members
down at The AH for a chat over a drink.
Recently we have been for a walk
around Windsor Great Park, followed by
lunch at the Wheatsheaf Hotel.
The next run was to Bracknell for a slide
(or fall) on the ice!!!(and for some a visit to
the fracture clinic!! Oh we do like to live
dangerously!!)
In April we met up with the embryo
Sussex Branch for a pub lunch and a gawp
at the paragliders etc on Devils Dyke.
In May we went to the BMF Rally,
missing most of the rain as we went on
Saturday. The show seemed to be smaller
than previously and with infinitely less
people. I thought that the HOC tent looked
brilliant, spacious, clean and professional
(but then it always does!)
At the end of May Steve went on holiday
to the IOM and Erica Gassor, her other half.
Graham Gull, Dave Barton, John Hancock
and Dibble, along with me and mine went up
to the Ace Café for the Honda Day. A good
time was had by all, Lauren and Suzanne
enjoyed the stunt riders and their impromptu
display on the road outside. Apparently this
has been rated as a ‘tolerance zone’ and
there certainly wasn’t a very visible police
presence. Photos of the Ace are courtesy of
‘Lauren Stone photographer to the biking
stars’ (actually courtesy of Lauren’s mobolic
telecommunicator , as she would put it)
Thanks to all who helped out!!
By the time you read this Steve should
have returned from the IOM (unless he gets
lost) and …… he and Maureen should be
man & wife!! (Unless there were any last
minute hiccups) Congratulations Steve &
Maureen, we all wish you the very best.
We hope to attend the Solent Rally (be
there or be quadrilateral!), and apparently
Steve has offered to single handedly man
the Fireblade Day stand at the Ace in July!
That’s it for now, don’t forget if you’re in
our area on a Weds, pop in and see us,
you’ll be most welcome.
Jude
The Admiral Hawke The Ace Cafe
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:52 Page 48
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:53 Page 49
50 SUMMER 2006
VARADEROSecretary: Philip Ramsay
I have to rush this one folks. With two
tasks to complete by midnight - this report is
one and the second is to finish packing a
bag for the weekend trip to Ireland. I have
been eying the empty luggage for days now.
This ritual procrastination haunts me. As for
all my love of travel, I really hate packing.
This has been something of a preoccupation
recently. As I write this report our UK and NI
delegates have just left for Sicily and VIM –
Varadero International Meeting. With seven
out of eight VIM’s to his credit, sadly Barry,
our very own UK VIM veteran will not be
joining the squad. Other itinerants include
Harv who is currently roaming Europe on his
Wing, Bodysurfer has been dodging the
weather in France and a number of other
members including Happychappy are
putting finishing touches to their individual
travel plans. Something for next time, but in
this edition we have three reports, and
keeping up our UK theme, one from Wales,
England and Scotland.
Wales in March - As promised, Simon R
led the aptly titled Plod round Wales – later
to be renamed as
'Heddlu around Cymru'.
A brisk and breezy start
as we met up at the
services at Aust on the
morning of 18th.
Bodysurfer, Keith,
Busckbiker, Harv, Mark
and I were joined by the
first-timer Colin B who
keen to make an
entrance turned up late.
Colin had already
admitted that he hadn’t
done much group riding
recently – fair enough.
But what he failed to
elucidate was that he
was a practicing stunt
rider and duly
impressed onlookers when he attempted a
limbo under the toll gate at the Severn
Bridge. Not easy on a Vara. Obviously didn’t
see the Motorcycles Free sign then!
Another new face Dee Duble Yuh with
his cut off screen joined us for the Saturday.
The gang was complimented with some old
faces as well with Loic on his Transalp, and
David C who made it across from Norn Iron,
and gains the FA Award – work it out -
munching 873 miles with his perfect gluts.
Simon took us through some
extraordinary countryside around the
heartlands of Wales. Following a talented
local boy was a privilege; the landscape
dramatic. Surely everyone could hear the
Ride of the Valkyries – or was that just me.
As the vistas appear to unfold and expand
cinematically I questioned why we ever
travel off this island for it has everything.
Punctuating the day at a notable tea stop -
Big Pit, Blaenafon, the team photo says it all
– chilly. You can actually go down the pit – a
unique experience – possibly one for VUK in
September.
Smile please – or just clatter your teeth !
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:53 Page 50
SUMMER 2006 51
The evening was spent in the company
of world champions – bog snorkelling that is
- as the 70’s jukebox bounced off the wall
and tingling feet tapped on the flagstone
floor of the Neuadd Arms. You will really like
Llanwrtyd Wells, dubbed the smallest town
in Britain and definitely one with a sense of
humor. Check out the other champions –
especially in the Man vs. Horse. Nutters.
This next piece from Harv - In April -
Bucksbiker’ decided to put on a Chiltern-
based route for the Vara chappies. The meet
up point was J10 services on M40 and after
coffee (plus the normal two fry ups for The
Speeding Stag) we set off. Not a huge group
today….two KTM 950’s and four Vara’s. We
knocked off one or two twisting ‘B’ roads
before venturing onto a couple of
unclassified gated roads and a ford
crossing.
Our new member ‘Rossisdad’ (the
French exile Claude) was enjoying a
baptism of fire on the single track roads
covered in gravel, grass and sheep
stuff….his previous UK riding being mainly
inner Birmingham commutes.
Lunch involved an ‘al fresco’ snack and a
swift half at a roadside pub with a genuine
Romany Gypsy caravan and obligatory
horse parked opposite. More lanes,
including a short by-way, before the
compulsory afternoon tea stop at a roadside
‘van’.
This was next to a ‘posh’ golf course and
‘Monsieur’ Claude brought a wry smile to all
as he answered the call of nature on the 4th
fairway with golfers wandering by…must be
a French thing. We rounded off the
Saturday afternoon with pictures and ice
creams at Brill Hill windmill before trundling
off to Thame for the evening ‘social’.
A few beers in ‘The Birdcage’ before
moving on to the local Chinese and more
beers followed by a trip to The London Inn
for more beers.
The overnight accommodation was a
local Travelodge but we missed the Little
Thief breakfast next day and opted for a
quick spin North to Jacks Hill on the A5 for a
proper job with black pudding, bubble and
squeak etc. this time joined by Andy on his
Hornet.
Following this we cut south, missing
good old Milton Keynes on some more
twisting lanes as we swept across into the
Chilterns again. We eventually ended up
somewhere near Wycombe where we split
up for home.
Big thanks to Bucksbiker Iain for sorting
his first run……now then….. who else hasn’t
organised one…..?
In early May Barber and chums
organized the Scottish Borders run. A report
from Barber
cont...........
You can’t bottle this -
in more ways than one.
Have you seen my Madonna impression?
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:53 Page 51
52 SUMMER 2006
The Scottish Borders, Dumfries &
Galloway are two, often forgotten areas.
They are shamefully disregarded as people
head north to the Highlands or South to the
Lakes & Dales. Genuine hidden gems, and
in true Varadero-spirit the challenge of "lets
go there" was I believe, the cry at some point
during our recent sojourn to Skye last
October. So we did!
A small turn out, not helped by a fuel
pump going on Happychappy’s machine the
night before the run. He later turned up on
his mates ZZR600. He's 6 4" ... get the
picture. We did!
Quality made up for quantity however
and later on Saturday morning we set off
from Dumfries round the Solway Coast,
stopping in Kirkcudbright before heading for
the Galloway Forrest Park & then North on
the A713 stopping in a very sunny
Carsphairn for tea/coffee & bacon, egg,
potato scone & haggis rolls or some
combination thereof.
East to Moniaive, then Thornhill & the
A702 'Dalveen Pass' road. The group’s faces
were a picture as they were led to and
through a large metal gate on the M74. A
cunning improvisation, IMHO, as the service
road was closed due to some small matter of
replacing a railway bridge on the West Coast
mainline. More B road to the A701 then
North before swinging East via unclassified
roads past Talla & Megget waters, the
highlight, literally, being a 1:5 hill.
"Did you see the view?" was the question
asked as we stopped at the Glen Cafe at St
Mary's loch on the A708. "No, I had my eyes
shut!" resounded from one of our pillions.
Saturday night spent at the Black Bull
Hotel in Moffat. Decent food & good beer – a
first-class end to a rain-free day. Waiting
there for us was our man on the ZZR. Good
effort considering his mate had forgotten the
bike had no MOT or tax. This was all done in
a hurry in deepest Ayrshire on Saturday
afternoon!
Sunday, it rained - all day! Our route from
Moffat took us on B roads through Lockerbie
to Langholm & from there to the B6357. If
you haven't done it, do it! The A6088 into
Hawick & A7 to Selkirk were next then
swinging South West onto the A708 for a bit
before heading into Eskdalemuir on the
B709. We stopped at the SamyeLing Buddist
Centre. The largest Buddhist temple in the
western world. It also happens to have one
of the nicest tea-rooms.
A short blast back to Lockerbie brought
the run to an end. A fab 340 miles spent on
magnificent Varadero roads & in terrific
company.
The next time you're heading through the
South of Scotland don't just blast through.
Stop, have a run, you won't be disappointed!
A warm Caledonian invite from Barber
there. Sounds great mate.
OK what for the rest of the year. In mid
June, Stonewolf will lead his posse around
Donegal, and in July we have the Prodded
Dog leading the Ooop North run around the
Moors and Teesdale. August and Harv is
putting the finishing touches to Devon
weekender. September and it’s the VUK
Rally in Baskerville Hall Hotel
Clyro Court - Hay-on-Wye – Powys
Phil
When we stop
I will mostly be standing like this !!
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:53 Page 52
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:53 Page 53
HOC HONDA OPEN DAYHOC HONDA OPEN DAY6th August 20066th August 2006
BROOKLANDS MUSEUM, WEYBRIDGE, SURREY BROOKLANDS MUSEUM, WEYBRIDGE, SURREY
The motto for the day is
““PPRRIIDDEE OOFF OOWWNNEERRSSHHIIPP””““PPRRIIDDEE OOFF OOWWNNEERRSSHHIIPP””
The 2005 event was very successful with over 250 bikes andmore than 700 people having a great day out at Brooklands
historic racing circuit and museum.
The event is a combination of a concourse for ALL Hondamotorcycles and selected dealer stands.
We would be really pleased if you would join us for this yearsshow on the 6th August.
For further information contact:Steve Hill
West London HOC17 Cheseman Street,
Sydenham SE26 4RA
Telephone: 020 8291 5263
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:53 Page 54
SUMMER 2006 55
NNNNEEWWEEWW DDDDIISSCCOOUUNNTTIISSCCOOUUNNTT SSSSUUPPPPLLIIEERRSSUUPPPPLLIIEERRSS
HOME FROM HOME GUESTHOUSE
Susan Rhodes
Tel No. 01228 792474
Mobile: 07748512990
Email: [email protected]
Website:
homefromhomelongtown.co.uk
I have recently taken over as
manageress of the above guest
house and would be very grateful if
you would please mention us in
your owners club newsletter. Our
location is excellent, on the A7 just
north east of Carlisle (7 miles) and 1
mile from the Scottish Borders,
where there are some of the most
excellent biking roads in the area
(my husband's opinion).
We have 5 rooms, 2 triples, 2 twin
and 1 single, for which we charge
£28 pp per night (discounts for
bikers will of course be available),
we also have private rear yard
parking with good access and
drying facilities (if required).
Longtown is a lovely little town with
a couple of pubs and lovely walks
by the river, loads of history and all
other facilities
LEBANON COTTAGE
Simon Hammerton
Tel No. 01736 788747
Mobile: 07748512990
Email: [email protected]
Website:
www.lebanoncottage.co.uk
Cornwall. self-catering cottage near
Land's End. Ideal for exploring West
Cornwall. Good roads, good pubs (2
minute walk), stunning scenery.
Sleeps 5, linen & towels provided,
garage parking for bikes. 10%
discount for members out of high
season. Short breaks available
WWW.TOPMARQUES.ORG.UK
Joe Blatherwick
Tel No. 07976 981589
Website:
www.topmarques.org.uk
A Nottingham based motorcycle
alarm/security installation business
offering members a 10% discount
on all security products.
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:53 Page 55
56 SUMMER 2006
by Stritchy, Big Ed on the Web
iHOC
As many of you will have noticed, theweb pages are still not back to normal after‘The Great Crash’ of December last year.Apologies to everyone.
We are in the process of changingservers again, which we hope will allow usto do everything that we want - principallythe Members Area and Branch sub-domains. Please keep checking the Clubsite www.hoc.org.uk for the latest news.
The good news is that Alan Sharkey ofManchester Branch has set up a new Forum
for the Club. This can be accessed atwww.hoc.org.uk/forum.html and is open toany Honda rider, whether they are amember or not. Hopefully non-members willjoin in and decide to join the Club as aresult.
My thanks to all those who have offeredhelp and soothing words during this time.Your input has been greatly appreciated.
Speak to you all on the Forum soon Ihope
StritchyBig Ed on the Web
wwwwww.hoc.org.uk.hoc.org.uk
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:54 Page 56
SUMMER 2006 57
ADRENALIN RUSH
Adrenalin rushes are something we
bikers know a lot about and there’s not a
better way of getting that feeling, if you are
not actually riding the love of your life, than
going to a bike race. If you cannot afford to
physically go to any, or many or the races
(and who can!), then watching it on the telly
is a good alternative, although you don’t get
the same atmosphere.
What an exciting year so far in the GP’s.
The obvious rivalry between Kallio and Luthi
in the 125’s, is brilliant, as is Bautista’s
consistency, which is still keeping him
ahead in the championship.
The great performances of Dovizioso,
Takahashi and the Aoyoma brothers in the
250’s, and the battle between the top four in
the GP’s is riveting. It’s interesting to watch
Rossi, as for the first time in years, he
struggles with bike problems; aren’t the
Honda’s doing well!
Anyone who watched the Le Mans GP
will agree that it is all nail biting, sitting on
the edge of your seat stuff. Currently there
are only 6 points separating the top 5, and
we are only on race 6 in the series!
The World Super Bikes also give
excellent racing with Bayliss and Corser
battling it out, and the Honda guys Toseland
and Barros standing 3rd and 5th in the
championship points. However, perhaps
the main accolade should go to Haga, who’s
racing is so exhilarating to watch. Not
forgetting the Supersport series which is
also proving very successful for Honda, with
Charpentier and Tiberico doing sterling stuff
winning 5 of 5 races so far.
BSB is also holding its own, and to see
Lavilla skilfully charging round is an
education. Who can challenge him for the
title? Leon Haslam is the nearest and there
are still a lot of races to go
Our HOC main web site and link to
Honda racing is an excellent quick glance
update format for anyone keeping up with
how our Honda guys are doing and of
course the back pages of MCN is always a
good read when the racing season is on.
It is excellent the way the young racers
such as Pedrosa and Stoner etc are coming
up through the ranks. Even our own
Bradley Smith from the Oxford area is
justifying his existence in the GP’s, despite
not yet being in the points; although at 15 he
has lots of years to catch up.
The one problem that all this excellent,
exciting racing gives is trying to fit in going
to the meetings or watching the races on the
TV – what would we do without the video!
The Stiggette
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:54 Page 57
58 SUMMER 2006
MY SUNDAY RIDE
I haven't done a full on enduro sincebreaking my foot badly a few years ago andthought a 12 hr enduro would be a goodway to get back into it. A few calls andemails later and most of the illustrious 2005Cambrian winning "team brat pack"(members of Varadero Forum) werenowhere to be seen. One of them even rodeall the way to Italy on his Goldwing, in orderto avoid the event.
Matthew came to the rescue. Although itnearly wasn't to be, as his bike trailer andthen car loaded with kit were stolen inseparate incidents during the previous twoweeks.
Saturday was the day to get the bikestogether, get scrutineered and signed on.It's funny how different events andscrutineers concentrate on different things -the chap I encountered was only interestedin loose spokes. We then had a brief look atthe track and a closer inspection of some ofthe potential "stoppers". I explained the bestapproach to the "bottomless pit of doom" toMatthew - "Basically, avoid it. It ishorrendous. If a marshal directs you to aparticular line, aim for him (he'll jump out ofthe way) he'll be stood on the only bit ofdecent ground...".
As we wandered to a scary lookingvertical faced mound of earth with huge rutsleading up to it and very steep drops offeither side, we both realised that therewould likely be a few "offs" during the day.As we walked back, one of the marshalssank his bike up to the seat in what lookedlike dry ground. It was in fact quick sand.They quickly cut out this bit of the track.
We locked the bikes up outside one ofthe organisers campers and then had aquick debate about who was going out first.
Matthew drew the "unlucky" straw.Sunday dawned bright and early at
0450. Why do I do this?? Got to the track at around 0600 to see
lots of very ill looking people - about a thirdof the 125 people entered camped at thevenue and did the decent thing - got really,really drunk. Looked like they regretted it inthe morning. The only thing I really regrettedwas getting too much sun to my freshlyshaven head which was now a little bit sore.
The team gazebo was set up along witha very nice comfy wing back chair.Matthew's bike was lined up on row one,mine was put into parc ferme. Row one is areally scary start place at an event like this -even when only 45 people are riding at atime (TBEC normally have anythingbetween 120 and 150).
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:54 Page 58
SUMMER 2006 59
The track is 5 miles long and onlypartially marked up with tape hencenavigating the first few laps is a little bitfraught. Tension was building for the 0700start when people realised that noambulances had arrived. Bugger. The startwas consequently delayed until 0745. Thisgave us just enough time for another highenergy bacon roll.At this point, I wanderedaround trying to psych out some of thecompetition - asking each team who wasfirst out, then turning to the first man out,laughing, shaking my head and saying "howdid THEY persuade you to do that?? Andyou call them friends??" as I walked away (Ionly did this to the guys I knew..)
0745: Off!! 20 minutes later Matthewsback to tag himself in (you register laps witha transponder on your wrist). He declaresthat there isn't anything too scary - a few"interesting bits" and lots and lots of reallyhard baked 4x4 ruts that we have to cross atan angle.Second lap, he's OK for a third,bringing him up to one hour. The plan formsto run 1 hour each and then swap (theearlier plan, formed during the previousweek was to "sit out about the first sixhours" in the hope that track would berm upnicely and come to us).
Matt's about 2/3 around his last lap so Idecide to kit up and warm up the bike. Hitthe starter. Nothing. Bugger. No kick start.Bugger. Push it down the hill in parc fermeand try and bump start it on the damp grass.Everyone around is laughing. On the thirdattempt and just as I'm getting to the ropesat the bottom, it bursts into life. Luckily Ihave enough weight to encourage traction...
Matt comes in. we swap the transponderand off I go. Instantly getting a telling off forexiting the parc ferme from the wrong exit."use the exit not the entrance" she hollers. Ifind the exit - and off we go. Onto a ridgeand furrow field on slippy damp grass andalmost loose it as the back tries to overtakethe front... a couple of sharp corners whereyou drop in to tractor ruts and bump arounda bit and then drop into the next field.Through some long grass and into somemore ruts, down around a tree and then youhit some dried mud - almost sand beforeturning sharply back up hill then around tothe right down a long slope with deep
muddy ruts that cuts around to the right. Thebest line here is to stay to the left and rideabove the ruts on a grassy bank. A littleaccuracy is required here as dropping offthis little bank at speed will result in anunplanned dismount. So what do I do firstlap? Stay to the right, get cross rutted andnearly lob it. I then miss the tapes for thenext left hander and end up trying to crosssome very deep ruts and have to manhandle the bike out as the front and rearwheels drop into these deep ruts.
Get going again. Around a tree and dropinto either of two deep ruts filled with muddywater. Plow through. See lots of marshallsahead - ah, oh dear - the stream crossing...the bottomless stream crossing... straightenthe bike up. Ignore the marshalls. Pick theroute that involves close contact with a treeand two steep banks (ignoring the obviousdeeply rutted "easy" routes that everyoneelse seems to be using) gas it, bosh in andout. Up the other side and onto the slipperybumpy bit the other side. Up the hill and intosome really soft loamy mud which is gettingcut up really bad (imagine riding through thecontents of about 2 million "grow bags" andyou have the right idea). cont.........
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60 SUMMER 2006
Up the hill around the right hand side ofthe huge mound, hitting a step andupsetting my balance, ever-so-nearlythrowing myself into a VERY deep hole butjust saving it. Onto the back of the circuitand a couple of miles of very, very fast drymud, grass and gravel, criss crossingaround the fields with some nice bermedcorners. Zig zag in and out of the hedge afew times with some fiddly ruts. Drop into abig bomb-hole full of water and have to do a"wall of death" around the outside - ace.More ridge and furrow, a very steeptechnical climb and drop the other side,more ridge and furrow. Again zig zag in andout of a hedgerow with ace banked corners.Race across a flat bit - too fast to be able torest or take a drink. Up a slight hill and thendrop off the side of the world, VERY steepand rutted at the bottom. Race accross a
combination of ridge and furrow, loamymud, long grass and sand, zig zagging up aleft to right rise across a field. Into a bit ofshade beneath some trees and a bankedcorner and then drop down to the riveracross some very deep 4x4 ruts which wecross at an angle. The ground is so hard,black tyre marks are being left on the facesof the ruts. Bang, bang, bang, bang - youtake quite a beating over these.
Now we have another climb into thetrees with a couple of very technical ruttedbits and corners (for me anyway, the fastboys just seem to glide through, harryflatters).
Across another wide expanse of 4x4ruts. These are crossed at right angles soyou hit them as fast as you can and keepthe front light, this makes them much morecomfortable. Down and across an off-
camber hill across a foot bridgeand onto a loamy boggy area - gasit.. long grasses, very rough, sharpright hander, photographers, gasit, nearly fall off, slow down. Zigzag up and down a field in avariety of going.
Up onto the top field againmomentarily before droppingsteeply down through the hedgebefore a steep climb back throughthe hedge, back down, back up etcbefore a very technical steep climband drop.
Then we have quite a longdrag alongside the hedge throughsome interesting fast going (nicelybanked corners and jumps witheasy landings) and then its outfrom the trees. Across some longgrasses - don't know what exactly,it's all been flattened by now, but itsmells fantastic, so you gas it andlift the front on the way out -awesome - zig zag in and out ofthe boggy ground and long grass,over a couple of sharp jumps andonto some very fast smooth (foronce) grass and gravel corners -too fast to rest or take a drink!!Still!!
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SUMMER 2006 61
Around onto the start of the motocrosstrack - which is pretty much all whooped outand hard packed mud with a liberalscattering of gravel on top. There are somegreat jumps here but we have many, manymore laps to do so I keep it pretty tame. Ihad a warning about one of the jumps - lotsof very rutted mud on the other side. Idecide it must have dried as all the rest ofthe track is bone dry. Stupid mistake. As Icrest the jump, I see the ruts, shut thethrottle and unbalance the bike. Landinghard on the front wheel, I almost go over thebars and wind myself. Off the motocrosstrack and onto the main field. Not long to go.Down to the bottom of the field over a nastyman made hump of earth and then only afew hundred yards of rutted hard packed dirtto go before....
Beep. Beep. One lap logged. Two moreto go.
Second lap, much the same but quite abit quicker. Without the big moment on theMX track.
Third lap and my confidence is up. I'mgoing FAST. Aiming for 16 minutes. I take adifferent route to avoid a guy stuck in theriver and sink the DRZ right up to the top ofthe rear wheel. 15 soul destroying minutesand four very muddy people later and I'm offagain. Only to fall off at the next sharpcorner - no rear brakes! All the heaving anddoing about in the river and the piston
retruned into the caliper and needed to bepumped.
A few hundred yards later and onto thehorrible mound. Overbalance in a rut at lowspeed and bang - off I go again.
End of the third lap - completelyknackered, covered in mud and unable tohold on. Matthews turn...
We did two sessions of three laps each.Then did single laps each for a while andswapped bikes a bit - his KTM 400surprisingly wasn't that much better than myDRZ until you really get going. At low speed,it made no difference.
We did 11 laps each in the end andcalled it a day after around 10 hours.Matthew had a 4 hour drive after the event,there were still a lot of "fresh" people - theteams of four made it a lot easier than ateam of two. And also rather annoyingly,some of the really "fast" boys were coursecutting quite badly - and meeting one ofthese chaps doing 50+ when you're flailingout of control at 10 mph isn't a pleasantthought....
All in all, a fantastic day out. Plenty ofriding for the £50 entry fee - (it's £100 ateam so if anyone fancies it next year......!!)we were quite relaxed about it all - all theother teams must have thought us madwhen our "whole" team stopped for lunch..most civilised. The best thing about this sortof event is that the food you eat tastes better
than anything you'veever eaten before...
I was a little bit soreand achy on Mon/Tuebut by Wed was fine.
Awesome.!
Mark HVaradero Forum
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62 SUMMER 2006
SSSSHHOOWWIINNGGHHOOWWIINNGG OOOOFFFFFFFFReport From - the BMF Show
It all started in the Autumn of last year
when Northants & Milton Keynes decided
that, after 8 years, they had done their fair
share (and rightly so) of running the BMF
marquee. So, we decided to give it a go as
it is held just down the road from us.
At our AGM we conned Kim into being
the BMF Co-ordinator, obviously a very wise
choice as we were to find out.
Ideas were flying in from all directions in
the weeks following the AGM and a design
was finally agreed. Thanks to Roger H’s
barn/workshop the building of the
marquee’s interior took place. Andy, Paul,
John and Roger H put in a lot of man hours
into this and boy, did it show. The days
before saw a frenzy of activity with last
minute stake and post making and painting
as well as a lot of cake, scone and sausage
roll making.
We arrived early Friday morning (we
packed the van and trailer the night before)
and within a couple of minutes all you could
hear was the sound of lawnmowers
charging up and down the inside of the tent.
Once that was finished the assembly of
the interior started. Due to a lot of forward
planning everything went together in a very
short space of time. All of the tables, chairs,
etc. arrived on time and by 4pm. we were
ready.
Saturday’s weather forecast was dismal
but luckily they got it
wrong again. The
reaction we received for
the layout was
pleasantly surprising as
everyone seemed to be
happy with it.
Cambridge Team
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SUMMER 2006 63
The helmet park was still in place with
the proceeds going to Riders for Health but
with the edition of the cake stand (as
pioneered by Kim and Paul last year), with
donations going to MAGPAS (Mid Anglia
Group Practice Accident Service)
The show’s attendance appeared to be
down on last year, probably due to the clash
with the British Superbikes in Ireland and
the MotoGP in France. This reflected in the
number of new members
signed up (13 on Saturday, 9
on Sunday).
Sunday morning saw
Roger H and Roger B in the
parade on the speedway track.
Roger H was on his Transalp
while Roger B was on the
monkey bike. I think at times
that our branch chairman
doesn’t take life seriously
(thank God).
Weather on Sunday was
crap to say the least. It didn’t
stop raining all bloody day. But
to be honest, I’m not sure
anybody cared as we were all
having a great time.
By about 4pm I was
flagging a bit but was soon
lifted with the news that
the HOC had come first for
the best club display. This
was the icing on the cake
for us all as so much effort
had gone into this. We
have been on a steep
learning curve this year
and we made a few
mistakes but next year
hopefully we will be even
better. Ideas for next year
were being banded about
already, so watch this
space.
I have seen most of
the people before who
helped out for the weekend but something
like this show lets you get to know these
people better and I hope to see these new
friends again next year. I would personally
like to thank everyone, not just Cambs, who
did work bloody hard, who gave up their
time to make this all work. It would not have
worked without you.
Bill
Pink Ladies
HOC Garage
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64 SUMMER 2006
MOTORCYCLING ABROAD
Haynes Publishing have never been
slow in letting us know about new
publications and products, and therefore
when this book arrived on my desk I almost
dismissed it. My intention was to perhaps re-
produce the press release and include it
somewhere in the magazine, if there was
space.
To have done so would have been a
mistake, as I found out when I picked it up to
have a glance through whilst waiting for yet
another “update” to release my computer
from its straightjacket.
The book is written by Peter Henshaw
and published in a very useful A5 format,
making it a realistic reference tool whilst on
the road. There is a wealth of information for
everyone, and for the novice tourer it really
is a must have.
Each page is laid out with a particularly
wide margin, which, apart from the picture
credits contains key data such as
illustrations of road signs. The margin is also
home to frequent blue “hint” boxes, which
are common sense reminders of key points.
The front half of the book consists of
chapters dedicated to specific guidance on
a number of topics. Chapter headings
include; On the road, Road hazards, Rules
and regulations, Documents and insurance,
In an emergency and others.
The back half of the book consists of
chapter entitled “Riding in”, and includes
Western Europe, Scandinavia, Southern
Europe, Eastern Europe, North America,
Australasia and a section for Africa, Asia
and South America entitled “further afield”.
Each of these chapters starts with a
“Bikers Tale” from someone who has been
there, done it, and doubtless bought a
number of T-shits. This is followed by key
information on subjects like fuel, animals,
traffic priorities and the like, and information
concerning road signs. Each chapter also
contains a tabular “Fact File” with all the
essential information such as speed limits,
driving ages and emergency telephone
numbers.
In conclusion, a very useful handbook
with a wealth of essential information, and
well worth the asking price of £12.99. There
is even a hint at occasional humour, such as
a line from the section on Australia; “It may
not be in the rulebooks, but it’s sensible to
give way to road trains”
EdISBN: 1 84425 2450 PRICE: £12.99
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:55 Page 64
SUMMER 2006 65
EEEE----BBBBIIIIKKKKEEEE IIIINNNNSSSSUUUURRRRAAAANNNNCCCCEEEE
Six motorcycle charities shared a £25,000 handout from eBike Insurance and New
Law following a website vote by bikers. The two companies came together to donate
£25,000 to charities helping to prevent motorcycle accidents, or helping riders after an
accident. Motorcyclists were able to place their vote on the eBike website –
www.ebikeinsurance.co.uk -- to determine how the money was split.
The six charities chosen for the cash, and the amounts they received, were Riders
for Health £11,165; County Air Ambulance £3793; National Association for Bikers with a
Disability £3688; Motorcycle Outreach £2333; MAG Foundation £2328: and British
Motorcycle Foundation £1537.
Martyn Cook is operations manager for Riders for Health, which maintains and
supports motorcycles for a network of community health nurses in Africa. He said: “This
donation is superb and shows what a great heart the motorcycle community has. The
cheque will do a lot of good work in Africa.”
Bristol-based eBike Insurance is revolutionising motorcycle insurance as the first
website to enable motorcyclists to manage and adjust all aspects of their cover
personally online. It offers a range of new special services, including pay-as-you-go, lay
up and accelerated bonus cover. In its first year it has attracted more than 35,000
customers.
The New Law solicitor’s practice is based in Cardiff and provides legal advice to
eBike customers
www.ebikeinsurance.co.uk
NNNNEEEEWWWW PPPPRRRROOOODDDDUUUUCCCCTTTT NNNNEEEEWWWW SSSSEEEERRRRVVVVIIIICCCCEEEE????
IItt ccoossttss nnootthhiinngg ttoo pprroommoottee yyoouurr nneeww pprroodduucctt ooff
sseerrvviiccee tthhrroouugghh HHOOCCoonnssuummeerr..
PPlleeaassee sseenndd yyoouurr pprreessss rreelleeaassee aanndd pphhoottoo ttoo::
MMaarrkk CCllaarrggoo,, HHOOCCoonnssuummeerr -- GGoollddeenn WWiinngg,,
99 HHeennddrreedd WWaayy,, AAbbiinnggddoonn,, OOxxoonn OOXX1144 22RRNN
or e-mail it to [email protected]
HHOOCCHHOOCCOONNSSUUMMEERROONNSSUUMMEERRCompiled by Mark Clargo - HOConsumer Editor
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:55 Page 65
66 SUMMER 2006
HHHHAAAAYYYYNNNNEEEESSSS PPPPUUUUBBBBLLLLIIIISSSSHHHHIIIINNNNGGGG
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:55 Page 66
SUMMER 2006 67
HHHHAAAAYYYYNNNNEEEESSSS PPPPUUUUBBBBLLLLIIIISSSSHHHHIIIINNNNGGGG
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:55 Page 67
68 SUMMER 2006
NYLON WALLET£4.70
NECK-TECTOR£7.40
CAP - £7.40
SWEAT SHIRT£16.90
KEY RING£2.50
MACHINE BADGE£2.50
LAPEL BADGE£2.50
WOOLLYHAT£8.90
POLO SHIRTS £14T SHIRTS £10.00 FLEECES £POA
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:56 Page 68
SUMMER 2006 69
Baseball Caps100% cotton cap with Club logoColours: ROYAL BLUE/RED/BLACKSize: one size fits allCost: £7.40Sweat ShirtPolyester cotton sweatshirt Colours: ROYAL BLUE/NAVY/RED/BLACKSizes: S, M, L, XL, XXLCost: £16.90WalletBlack nylon wallet of good quality to keep notes, coinsCredit cards, and all those precious things.Cost: £4.70FleecesNavy, Black, Forest Green and Red in sizes small to2X LargeCost POAPolo ShirtsHeavier weight polyester cotton, of excellent quality.Colours: ROYAL BLUE/NAVY/RED/BLACK/FOREST GREENSizes: S, M, L, XL, XXLCost: £14
Neck-tectorsKeep out the chill with one of our Neck-tectorsColours: BLACKSize: one size fits all.Cost: £7.40Woolly HatsWoolly hat to keep your head warm.Colours: BLACK & RED onlyCost: £8.90 T-ShirtsCotton T-Shirt with embroidered logo on left BreastColours: BLACK/RED/NAVYSize: S, M, L, XL, XXLCost: £10Machine BadgeCost: £2.50Key RingCost: £2.50Lapel BadgeCost: £ 2.50
Hello every one, just letting you know that I have a few ideas and need a little bit of feedback from the members.
How many people would be interested in a limited run of roll neck tops? I need a provisionalnumber to get a price. Any one interested needs to contact me with an e-mail address or atelephone number. This is so I can let you know the price.
We are also considering doing a range of children’s T-Shirts for family membership’s.We are also looking at ladies fitted T-Shirts and ladies vest tops, I would also like some
feed back on this too.
Please make sure you specify size and colour required clearly. State your membershipnumber, no number, no goods!! Enclose a cheque or postal order made payable to HondaOwners Club GB - but no cash please. Postage and packaging is included in the cost of theitems ordered. Orders accepted subject size, colour, availability. Please make sure youinclude a contact number.
We will do our best to make sure you get your order quickly and efficiently. However someitems may be delayed - you will be informed if this is the case. Item delays will usually occurduring busy periods of the year when we have a high number of orders and low stock e.g justafter the NEC show and near Christmas. Please get your orders in early for Christmas as thistime of year is also a busy time for me.
I work for myself and have limited time to place and chase orders as my own businessmust take priority. Thanks.
Send your orders to:Justin Goddard,
19 Linkfield Avenue, Mountsorrel, Leicester, LE12 7DH�� 0116 230 3277 � [email protected]
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:56 Page 69
70 SUMMER 2006
MMMMEEMMBBEERRSSEEMMBBEERRSS FFFFRREEEERREEEE AAAADDSSDDSSAdverts must be received by the 1st September for inclusion in the Autumn IssueWrite to: Golden Wing, Unit 1B & 5B, Kemps Quay Industrial Park, Quayside Road, Southampton SO18 1BZ
FOR SALE
CB500 FOUR UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY
This bike is being reluctantly sold by Pete Goodger, one of thefounders and past President of the HOC.
Pete has owned the bike from new in 1971/2, and, as can beseen, it is in pristine condition having covered just 23,500 miles.Pete is selling the bike with many new spares, and would like tofind a new owner to enjoy taking the bike to shows and rallies.
As a part of HOC history, it’s too good for a daily use bike
£3,800Call Pete on 023 8061 8595
HONDA CAMIO
The moped belongs
to an elderly gentleman
who bought it in 1968
He did 29 miles on it
before becoming ill
and never used it again.
If anyone is interested
please contact the owner
Mr Nicholson
on
01428 713358£Offers
Golden Wing Summer 2006.qxp 20/08/2006 20:56 Page 70
SUMMER 2006 71
ADS CAN BE POSTED FREE ON THE CLUB WEBSITE ATwww.hoc.org.uk/forum.html
ADVERTISING IN MEMBERS FREE ADS
MEMBERSfree all sections
must state membershipnumber
OTHERS
FOR SALE (BIKES):
£15 1st insertion-subsequent free
(includes freemembership)
OTHER CATEGORIES:
£3 per insertion
TWO 250/4 18,000 RPM
CB 250 R MC19
CB 250 R MC17
Both in good condition.
Taxed and MOT
Plus spares for both
machines.
Call or e-mail for more
information
01924 [email protected]
Bob Peck (26609)
West Yorks
SPARES
CBX 750
Cam chains, &
guides/tensioners
Generator,
4 Con rods
Various odds & ends for
engine.
Can supply photos.
£150 + post & packing
from France.
Tel: 00 332 43 08 00 12
Pete Broad, LONGUEVE,Colombiers du Plessis,
53120, France.
HONDA CB 550 F
1985 C Reg
Owned from new.
36,500 miles
Good condition.
Garaged.
FSH
MOT & Tax
Blue, red & white
Top box
Engine crash bars
Mud flaps
£800 o.n.o
0151 425 3113or
07909 746313John Coslett (23750)
Liverpool
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