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Summer 2009, Volume 47 No. 2
Editor / DesignerTim Lee
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:
Golden WingHonda Owners Club (GB)
232 Leigh RoadChandlers Ford
EastleighHants
SO53 3AWTel: 023 8025 2113
Web Page: www.hoc.org.uk
Summer IssueCopy Date 1st September 2009
Published by end of September 2009
Printing & Distribution by:LPC Printing Ltd
Hardley Industrial EstateHythe,Southampton
Tel: 023 8084 6334
© Honda Owners Club (GB) 2009
We believe the contents of Golden Wing to
be correct at the time of publication. The
Honda Owners Club (GB) cannot be held
responsible for any errors, omissions, or
for subsequent changes to details given in
this publication or for the consequence of
any reliance on the information.
The views expressed in this publication
are not necessarily those of the Honda
Owners Club (GB) or the Executive
Committee
ARTICLES
Membership Matters ............................................2
Dibble Rattle’s On ................................................3
Pigeon Post..........................................................5
Editor Says ..........................................................8
Kicking Back ......................................................10
Barry’s Tales from the Past ................................14
Competition ........................................................16
Classic Corner....................................................18
The Open Rhodes..............................................22
Testing Times ....................................................28
Down Your Way..................................................30
Reports from: Bedfordshire, Birmingham, Bristol
Cambridge, East Midlands, Eastern, Lakes & Coast,
Manchester, Manx Offshore, Norfolk, Northumbria,
Northants & MK, North London, Oxford, Reading, South
Wales, Solent, South Wales, West Coast Riders, West
London, Wiltshire
Racing Report ....................................................81
Mancunians Abroad ........................................100
Shop@HOC ....................................................103
Soapbox ..........................................................104
HOConsumer ..................................................107
Members Free Ads ..........................................110
Members Discounts ..........................................111
Tail Lights ........................................................117
PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DO
Devon & Somerset Social W/end ......................17
Birmingham Camping Weekend ........................38
Lakes & Coast BBQ & Airshow..........................55
Three Shires Rally ............................................56
Diary Dates........................................centre pages
Oxford Rally ......................................................83
FRONT COVER
The front cover shows Chris Ward,
Reading Branch Webmaster taking part in
the Honda Institute brake test day in
March. See article on page 28. Photo
courtesy Honda (UK) Ed.
SUMMER 2009 1
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PresidentTrevor Thompson
Vice PresidentsDave Barton,Tony Eldridge,Graham Gull
ChairmanAndy ‘Dibble’ Young
1 Severn Way, Kettering,Northants. NN16 9HN
�� 01536 412086 � [email protected]
General SecretaryGraham Seymour
6 Kestrel Road, Flitwick, Bedfordshire, MK45 1RB
��01525 633169� [email protected]
Membership SecretaryGraham Gull
61 Vicarage Road, Ware SG12 7BE� [email protected]
Saddle Sore Shield Co-ordinatorStephen Davenport
�� 07968 810435 � [email protected]
Regalia Co-ordinatorJennie Clarke
6 Bugby Way, Raunds, Northants, NN9 6SX
�� 01933 399463 / 07759 805181 � [email protected]
TreasurerRuth Stryczko,
38 Bower Street, Bedford MK40 3RE.� [email protected]
Advertising ManagerErica Gassor,
�� 07799 49 2235 � [email protected]
WebmasterAndy (Stritchy) Stryczko
38 Bower Street, Bedford MK40 3RE� [email protected]
BMF Liaison OfficerJim Peel-Cross
11 The Green, Wilcot, Pewsey, Wilts. SN9 5NN�� 01672 563450
Classic SecretaryDave Barton
53 Northlands Road, TottonSouthampton. S040 3HA
CCCCHHAAIIRRMMHHAAIIRRMM
SUMMER 2009
WELCOMEWelcome to those of you who have
joined recently including those at the
BMF show and at the ACE Honda day at
the Spring Bank Holiday. I hope you enjoy
your membership of the club and I know
that some of you have already attended
branch meetings and received a warm
welcome.
With the Spring weather having turned
to Summer recently, I have been spoilt for
choice amongst my 4 bikes in which to
ride. It depends which one is nearest the
front of the garage without having to shunt
them around! By the time you read this I
will have had a week in France on my
trusty Pan, now with over 90000 miles on
the clock!
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 got two copies of the
last magazine returned by Royal Mail , so
don’t let it be YOU who we lose contact
with.
DIRECT DEBITDon’t forget that it makes life so much
simpler to sign up for Direct Debit, so you
needn’t worry about letting your
membership lapse. All you need to do is
return the renewal form when you receive
it with your bank details and we will do the
rest. Remember subscription rates are
guaranteed until 2012.
Graham GullMembership Secretary
61 Vicarage Road
Ware SG12 7BE
MMMMEEMMBBEERRSSHHIIPPEEMMBBEERRSSHHIIPPMMMMAATTTTEERRSSAATTTTEERRSS ............
2
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BMF SHOW
Well if you were there you would be in
full agreement that once again the HOC
marquee was the best club stand at the
show. It’s such a shame the judges were of
the belief that we get it paid for in some way
by Honda UK, and that we are not an
independent club.
Our display organised by the Cambridge
branch; with others assisting; had a theme
of getting out and about to the great
outdoors on your bike. The brilliantly painted
back drop with signs on, the tent pitched to
the fore and an array of fine bikes made it all
seem very obvious to me.
Then of course there was the fine array
of club regalia and the membership desk
with full information about the diversity and
spread of our fine club. There were staff
available to talk about their bikes and
accessories. The refreshment area once
again allowed members to take the weight
off their feet and enjoy a FREE drink. For
those who were peckish, a selection of
lovely homemade cakes were available ,
with donation going in the charity pot. The
helmet park once again proved very popular
with members who did not want to lug their
bargains and kit around with them all day;
again, donations went to charity. This year,
the chosen charities were Riders for Health
and MAGPAS, and I am pleased to say that
significant funds were raised.
Somehow the judges missed all this!
Despite their being staff present from all
over the country, they thought it was a
branch display??????? We were awarded a
joint 10th in the one make clubs competition.
Of those who were ranked above us I saw
nothing that attracted me to them and
certainly no real hospitality offered for
hundreds of visiting members. The winners
tent was a frame tent with very few bikes
stood around and two decidedly worn
looking people sat drinking tea in front of
some jaded photos. Seems the judges think
that amounted to the best show in the
categories - what with the quality of the
component parts, originality of display, effort
put in by the club, the overall impression and
the fact that the display is supposed to
convey the message the club is trying to
portray. A letter has been drafted to the BMF
regarding the above and some other
comments made in their results letter.
Regardless, well done Cambridge
excellent display and thanks to all those who
supported the show.
OUT AND ABOUT
The ‘Sno Rally was a fine weekend
again, with superb guided tour of the Dales
and excellent hosting by the farm. Those
who came were treated to a ‘kippering’ for
breakfast with Kevs indoor BBQ.
Wiltshire rally this year was at a new site
and this proved very popular with a good
pub just at the drive end. Food of all sorts to
suit most tastes readily available and good
local beer.
The Saturday run was blessed with good
weather and lunch looking over the plains
and planes was terrific. Then home to Lardy
cake and a short walk to watch the local wild
life on the river keeping many entertained
after a little concern for the welfare of one
little duckling.
Back for the BBQ which also saw new
arrivals to the rally and several visitors. The
host team did a brilliant job of getting every
one of the 50 or so fed with the assistance
of Theo’s local shopping skills.
CCCCHHAAIIRRMMAANNHHAAIIRRMMAANN DDDDIIBBBBLLEEIIBBBBLLEE RRRRAATTTTLLEEAATTTTLLEE ’’’’SSSS OOOONNNN!!!!from Andy “Dibble” Young - Club Chairman
News as it happens? Join News as it happens? Join Andy’Andy’s email list by sending an email tos email list by sending an email to
[email protected]@hoc.org.uk
SUMMER 2009 3
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There were two further run outs on the
Sunday and Monday and we were joined by
several guest riders which made for a
pleasant and rewarding attendance for the
teams efforts; well done, I am looking
forward to next years already.
I know that branches are having bumper
attendances at some events this year
already and hope that new members will be
coming along to enjoy the efforts being
made by the staff of those branches. We are
lucky to be in the situation of having
something on nearly every weekend and
many week day evenings as well. What with
visits to the Speedway, inter branch sporting
events, and some less strenuous games,
we seem to be creating a special
atmosphere this year and I hope it
continues.
I am hoping to be at the Oxford Rally
and certainly at the National Rally hope to
see more of you there.
BIKE SHOW?
One event not on the calendar this year
as yet is any sort of ‘Classic/New’ show
which we have held every year for the past
couple of decades. The logistics and
support for another show at Gaydon along
the same lines as last year were simply not
sustainable. For the show to work, we would
have needed the support of Honda, and
with them pulling out of many other events,
we did not think it appropriate to expect
further support in the current climate.
However we are still keen to have a
show and are attempting to create a ‘simple’
one day event for all those with shiny
Classics, unusual customs, old stalwarts
and bright shiny new bikes who want to
come along and show their pride and joy.
The event will be a bit later this year, but
we will publish it on the website and through
branches, so keep a look out.
WEBSITE FORUM
Got a bike problem? Got a bit for sale?
Want some parts? Want a little rant about
something? Well we have a very active
Forum on the club website which can help
with all those needs. Please do come and
have a look, it might be better than you
think. It is also the quickest way to answers
about things going on in the club.
Get on and try it you might even like it.
Ride on but most of all ride safe
Dibble
4 SUMMER 2009
CCCCHHHHAAAANNNNGGGGEEEE OOOOFFFFAAAADDDDDDDDRRRREEEESSSSSSSS
PPPPlllleeeeaaaasssseeee sssseeeennnndddd cccchhhhaaaannnnggggeeee ooooffff aaaaddddddddrrrreeeessssssss
ddddeeeettttaaaaiiii llllssss ttttoooo tttthhhheeee
MMMMeeeemmmmbbbbeeeerrrrsssshhhhiiiippppSSSSeeeeccccrrrreeeettttaaaarrrryyyy
nnnnooootttt ttttoooo GGGGoooollllddddeeeennnn WWWWiiiinnnngggg
TTTThhhhaaaannnnkkkkssss .... .... .... ....EEEEDDDD
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:27 Page 4
General Secretary - Graham Seymour
PPPPIIGGEEOONNIIGGEEOONN PPPPOOSSTTOOSSTT !!........!!........
Hey Ho. The summer edition is upon us
and I’m sitting here, late as usual and
wondering what to say this time!
It is early days yet but it looks like the
HOC may at last have spread its wing as far
as Scotland, with some interest there in
forming a branch. Having just returned from
a week sampling the unbelievable scenery
and roads, I can see that this will be popular
with the rest of the club! Though having
spoken to every Scot that would listen, I am
no closer to a guaranteed deterrent against
the midges! (Avon skin-so-soft was the
most commonly recommended but just as
many told me it was useless. I guess it must
be a personal thing)
We saw hundreds of bikes up there.
Instead of the usual 1%, I would guess that
bikes made up 5-10% of the traffic, the
majority being adventure bikes. However
out of these I saw two Transalps’ and a
grand total of no Varadaros’! The
overwhelming majority being of a well
known German make with a sprinkling of
Triumph Tigers’. (Mainly due to meeting
what looked like an outing by the Triumph
Owners Club one day) Come on Honda.
Let’s have something that can compete in
the popularity stakes! In the meantime I
shall employ any excuse to visit again!
On a separate note I have had occasion
to speak to some of my colleagues at
branch level, who shall we say, feel a little
unappreciated by their members at times.
Come on people, these folk are giving their
time voluntarily on your behalf and need
encouragement just like anybody else! The
trouble with this country is that we are
always quick to complain but often fail to
say when we are pleased with something.
So if you know someone who has done a
good job for instance organising an event,
manning a stand or begging prizes for a
club raffle, please give them a pat on the
back for their trouble and let them know
their efforts are appreciated.
This is our busiest time of the year, so
enjoy!Cheers
Graham
COMMUNICACOMMUNICATETEDo you need to get something in
Golden Wing, and on the website,
and in the Monthly Mail Out all at once.
Do it with one e-mail sent to;
[email protected]@hoc.org.ukYour message will automatically go to;
TIM (Golden WTIM (Golden Wing Editor)ing Editor)
STRITCHYSTRITCHY (Big Ed, W(Big Ed, Webmaster)ebmaster)
GRAHAM (General Secretary)GRAHAM (General Secretary)
SUMMER 2009 5
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6 SUMMER 2009
HONDA GENUINE PARTS
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EEEEDDIITTOORRDDIITTOORR SSSSAAYYSSAAYYSS ........In the last issue I finished up by saying
that we would look at how the production of
Golden Wing continued after the
layout/artwork DVD had been passed to the
printer. I don’t imagine for one moment that
there were members holding their breath in
anticipation, but in case there were, please
accept my apologies; it will be in the Autumn
issue. Please also accept my apologies for
the magazine being somewhat late, but
events have somewhat overtaken me in the
last few weeks.
Those of you who are eagle-eyed will
have noticed the change of address for
Golden Wing, and the new contact
telephone number. For those who have
missed it, the new details are on page 1, but
the email address remains the same as do
the copy date deadlines and just about
everything else.
As some of you know, Golden Wing was
run from the offices of The Mortgage
Warehouse (GB) Ltd, an internet based
mortgage brokerage which my brother and I
started some ten years ago. Unfortunately,
we have become a casualty of the current
economic climate, and despite having made
all our staff redundant, and cut costs to the
bone, we were unable to meet the capital
requirements of the Financial Services
Authority and have had to advise our
creditors we are insolvent.
As anyone involved in running a
business will know, the operation of
director’s guarantees in support of corporate
loans and overdrafts effectively means the
company’s problems become personal
problems and a visit to the bankruptcy court
was inevitable.
I like to think that I have a positive
outlook, and indeed, I believe that any
problem which doesn’t relate to the health or
freedom of those you love is simply a part of
life’s rich tapestry. Whilst waiting to go
before the district judge, we met a young
lady with a
similar outlook;
she informed
us that what
we were doing
ensured our
immorta l i ty,
e n s h r i n e d
forever within
the pages of
the London
G a z e t t e .
After having
received the
commiserations and rubber
stamp from the district judge, we bumped
into the same young lady as we were
leaving. She said; “Do you realise how many
celebrities have been bankrupt? - I knew I
would make it onto the A list eventually”. I
liked her attitude, and Mandy and I decided
there and then that this would be an
adventure.
The first part of the adventure came
about when I started to investigate the
receipt of Job Seekers Allowance. It struck
me just how often people make
assumptions, and how much happier the
world would be if they didn’t. Dibble has
already written about the injustice suffered
by the Cambridge branch at the BMF Show,
and whilst I didn’t go this year, I know from
previous years what a superb job they make
of the marquee. Unfortunately, their tenth
place was awarded on the basis of an
incorrect assumption that they had received
help from Honda.
The young man at the Jobcentre also
made assumptions. He assumed that
because he was working, he somehow had
a higher level of knowledge and skills than I
did; he certainly had more arrogance and I
understood very quickly how some people
can lose their temper in these situations.
One bad apple perhaps, I wonder?
8 SUMMER 2009
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SUMMER 2009 9
Evidently, to qualify for the grand sum of
£64 per week (for six months only), I would
have to keep a diary detailing the activities I
had undertaken in the pursuit of gainful
employment. Not only that, but I would have
to report to this callow youth on a fortnightly
basis so he could check on my progress.
I suggested that with four children to
provide for, he didn’t need to worry himself
with the possibility of my retiring to a life of
benefit fuelled luxury, provided for by the
tax-payer, but he said those were the rules.
To add insult to insult, he informed me that I
would have to attend a course on how to
write application letters, and of course, he or
someone else would be more than happy to
check them for me! All this from someone
who believes capital letters have no place in
the modern world, and grammar is someone
who sucks eggs and drinks too much sherry
at Christmas.
He concluded by advising me that when
I was ready to make an application, it would
take approximately forty five minutes, and
that any “income” I received would reduce
the benefit pound for pound after a certain
(low) amount had been received. Needless
to say, I didn’t bother applying and decided
to become self employed.
The last couple of weeks has been
somewhat varied, and has included garden
clearance, labouring, a bit or courier work
and helping people with form filling and
writing official letters. I have also spent
several days acting as a relief driver for LPC
Printing who print Golden Wing, including
one delivery on the Isle of Man. The upshot
of this is that as well as editing the
magazine, I might very well end up
delivering it as well!
On that note I will sign off, once again
apologising for the delay of this issue.
Keep it tidy,
Tim
AA TTAA TTOOAASSTTOOAASSTT TTOOTTOO EEEELLAAIINNEELLAAIINNEE
It was with great regret that we learnt of
Elaine Stamp’s passing and pass on our
deepest condolences to her family.
Sally and I will always remember how
kind and welcoming she was when we first
went to the Bedfordshire branch many
moon's ago, and the many laughs we had
over the years. It was a big worry when we
realized that the day of Elaine's funeral was
the day the club was off to Ypres
for a weekend which had been
booked six months previously.
After much consultation amongst
the members going it was
decided that knowing the type of
person Elaine was, the last thing
she would have wanted was for
us to cancel the trip.
We arrived in Ypres on
Friday afternoon and in a quiet
moment Sally and I went to St
Martin's Cathedral and lit a candle and had
a prayer for Elaine.
That evening at the group meal Elaine
was at the forefront of everyone's mind and
we all raised a glass and toasted her
memory.
Ian Parris.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:28 Page 9
10 SUMMER 2009
THANKS JOHN
Dear Sir,Please find enclosed a copy of a
cancellation of a fixed penalty notice forspeeding.
The bike was subject to a recall fromHonda due to water ingress into the wiringharness which could lead to a malfunction.In Honda’s words “the rider may experienceerratic or incorrect speedometer readings,thus not enabling the rider to maintainspeeds within the road regulation limits”.
John Measures was very instrumentalwith his legal expertise in advising me as tohow to instigate matters. I would be gratefulto learn of your comments.
Yours sincerely
James French Membership Number 30929
Thanks for your letter James, and it isnice to know that in some cases justiceprevails. I have not printed the actualcancellation notice as it contains personalinformation about you.
I suspect the case was not quite as clearcut as the decision would seem, as it is myunderstanding that it is not a requirement tohave a working speedo to comply with thelaw. Indeed, my Fireblade passed an MOTtest a few years ago whilst the speedo wasnot working. I don’t think I would have gotaway with the excuse that my speedo hadbroken, had I been caught speeding!
I suspect that the difference here is thatyou did not know the speedo to be faultyand had no reason to suspect it couldn’t betrusted. Of course, having someone with theexperience and expertise of John Measureson your side is almost like having an unfairadvantage to begin with. Ed
CARLTON OUTDOOREDUCATION CENTRE
Dear Tim,I am sending you a leaflet which
describes the facilities at the OutdoorCentre at Carlton-in-Cleveland. We used tohave our August Bank Holiday weekendsthere, I can’t remember if you ever came toone.
We stopped using it as it closed down,temporarily as it happened, when the threelocal authorities disagreed over funding.
It has now been taken over by HartlepoolBorough Council and extended, and runmuch on the lines of how it was runoriginally. They are willing to providebreakfasts and other meals if asked.
I thought that perhaps some of thebranches might be interested if they wereplanning on coming up this way.
They have accommodation for 68, androom for tents on a large lawn. I would bepleased to act as liaison if anyone would likeme to. Perhaps you could mention it inGolden Wing. Naturally availability isgoverned by whether the prime users needit or not. Cheerio for now
Yours faithfully
Dave LindenMembership Number 14
It’s great to hear from you again Dave.Unfortunately, I never did make it to anyAugust Bank Holiday weekends.
The Carlton Centre certainly looks to besomething worth considering for anybranches wanting a base from which toexplore the area.
The Carlton Outdoor Centre can becontacted on 01642 712229 or by visitingwww.carltonoutdoors.org or via Dave. Ed
KKKKIICCKKIINNGGIICCKKIINNGG BBBBAACCKKAACCKK ................Something to Say - Say it here
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:28 Page 10
GOING, GOING, GONE
Hi TimJust to let you know what a splendid job
you did on the advert for my luggage in theMembers Free Ads 2009 Vol 47 No. 1 ofGolden Wing.
The photos and text stood out andattracted lots of interest.
I received my copy of the Golden Wingon the 2nd May and by the 11 May I hadsold everything. Brilliant.
Many Many Thanks
John HolthamMembership Number 25338
Thanks for your letter John, and I amglad the advert worked. I sometimes thinkmembers forget about the “free ads”service, but like all our advertisers, it isadvertsing to a very targetted audience ofseveral thousand Honda enthusiasts. Ed
FANCY A TRIP TO THESOUTH OF FRANCE?
This is a call out to anyone who wants tojoin us at West Coast Riders on our holidaynext year to the South of France.
Everyone is welcome, the more themerrier. We will be leaving the UK on 19thJune 2010 and returning on 3rd July 2010,taking in France, Italy, Switzerland,Germany, Luxemburg and Belgium on theway home.
I need to know who’s coming by 1stSeptember 2009, so if anyone is interestedin joining us, please feel free to e-mail meon [email protected] for furtherdetails. I will send you over a rough itinery inthe reply.
Looking forward to hearing from you.Love
Rona xxx
It sounds great Rona, I am sure you willget a lot of interest. Ed
VOLUNTEERS FOR NEC2009
Hi all,As some of you are aware, Honda have
pulled out of the NEC this year. Veryshocking and sad news I know.
I have therefore no need for volunteersfor their stand, so I have moved everyonethat was working on their stand over to ours.
I still have some places available forvolunteers, but very few so it will be on afirst come first served basis.
If anyone would like to help out the standthis year then e-mail me [email protected] and I’ll see whatdates I have left.
Thanks a lot for all that have volunteeredso far
Love
Rona xxx
SUMMER 2009 11
Kicking BackKicking BackLetters for the next issue to arrive by
1st September 2009
E-mail to [email protected]
or post to:
Golden Wing
232 Leigh Road
Chandlers Ford
Eastleigh
Hants
SO53 3AW
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:28 Page 11
12 SUMMER 2009
OUR HISTORY OFHELPING ON THE HONDA
STAND
Hi TimI am forwarding a photograph taken in
about 1966 at the Earls Court MotorcycleShow when members of the HOC had beeninvited to man the Honda stand.
We were all members of the thenLondon Branch of the club.
As club Secretary,I turned up by bike, soguess who that is?!
So, the idea of Honda UK inviting clubmembers to help at exhibitions is nothingnew at all. However, with Honda UK notintending to exhibit at this years NEC, theservices of the HOC will not be required.
Regards
Tony EldridgeHOC Vice President Membership No: 8
Thanks for the photo Tony, and I have tosay that I don’t think anyone who has metyou will have any trouble recognising you asa young man!
With our 50th anniversary now less thantwo years away, it would be great if we couldmeet up at some time and investigate whatother treasures you may have filed away.
Indeed, it would be great if all our longstanding members would have a searchthrough their albums and attics and seewhat they can find. We would love to be ableto produce a commemorative publicationcharting the history of the club, and wouldlike to include the anecdotes and memoriesof as many of our early members aspossible.
With there having been in excess of31,000 club members over the years, it isgreat to note that almost all of the first ten ortwenty are still playing an active part inbranch life. Indeed, our current President,past President and all three Vice Presidentshave single figure membership numbers. Ed
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:28 Page 12
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14 SUMMER 2009
The Narodni National Park is among themountains of Southern Poland. There isskiing there in the winter but in May, is it justhigh meadows, rushing rivers and springflowers. It is between seasons and thereforethe hotels are good value.
I chose a modern hotel, just on the edgeof town with a nice car park behind biggates. The car park was empty as was thehotel.
Twenty Euro a night B&B, nice roomthird floor - with elevator!
I had picked up a bottle of red wine at mylunch stop earlier. It was now 16.30. Ishowered and settled down with my bottle ofwine and pipe, looking out of the windowacross the mountains.
After only one glass a drowsinessovercame me, so I flopped on the bed. Iwoke at 19.00 hrs. Quick slouch, dressedand downstairs - dinner was from 19.00 to20.00.
Gob smacked is not a word I normallyuse, but I can’t think of a better way todescribe my reaction on reaching the lobby.
The place was heaving with elderlypeople, it was a sea of grey hair. I madequickly for the bar and ordered a beer. Bygesture I enquired of the barman, where didall these people come from. He pointed outof the window and there in the car parkstood my bike and three very large coaches.
I took my beer and ventured into thedining room. There before me sitting at longtables were rank upon rank of grey hairedmen and women - mostly women. Whilst Iwas gathering my senses a waitress tookmy elbow and propelled me foreword intothe hoard. A group of women indicated thatthere was a chair free at their part of thetable and to there I was propelled, sat downand had a menu thrust in my hand - thewaitress was obviously used to handlingbefuddled old men! The woman next to meplanted some cutlery before me and nodded
in approval.I wanted to run, but would I get by the
waitress on guard by the door? Suddenlythere was a plate of soup before me and thelady next to me again smiling and noddingat me. Then she asked me something and Inervously blurted out ‘sorry I don’tunderstand’ - as she was reaching for thebread basket as I spoke, I would probablyhave got away with my impersonation as abefuddled old Pole if I had said nothing andjust taken a piece of bread.
As it was it was now the ladies turn to besurprised along with three or four others inclose vicinity. The lady said "Deutsche?Hollander?" "English" I replied. Together allof them exclaimed "Englishman!" Withinseconds the news had passed down bothsides of my table jumped a gap alonganother table, and so on until it had lappedthe room. At some point the waitress guardpicked up the news. She approached mewith some consternation - her system hadbeen breached! She spoke to me. All I coulddo was to show her my key and roomnumber. She was unsure, but they mycompanions on the table came to myrescue. What was said, I know not, but sheretreated and soon my main course - rabbitstew? - arrived and the ladies at my tablewere all smiles and nods. As I was, I likerabbit stew.
The ladies made an attempt atconversation, but all I could indicate wasthat I was touring on my moto. Big mistake!Now it was the ladies turn to be concerned.Again the news did a lap of the dining room.
Now they were talking to me very s l o wl y. I did pick up on one word, family. It wouldappear that they were worried that this oldfool who couldn’t even find his way to hisproper dining room was wandering roundEurope on a big moto without a keeper andwere wondering if my family knew where Iwas.
POLISH WOMENPOLISH WOMEN
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:28 Page 14
I nodded and said ‘family’ and producedmy wallet and a picture of my wife, then mychildren and onto my grandchildren. Theysmiled and nodded approval and mypictures disappeared on a lap of the diningroom. I think they gradually came to theconclusion that I wasn’t senile, just deaf anddumb, and of course a man!
I survived dinner, which was really quitegood, and during the mass exit from thedinning room, made my escape out of thehotel. It was a very nice village, typicallyalpine. On my stroll through the village, Ihad noticed a couple of pleasant lookingbars and I had just past one when I wasaccosted by 4 ladies walking in the oppositedirection and steered into the bar I waspassing. There sat ‘my’ ladies drinkingchocolate. Another round of chocolate wasordered which the waiter duly served andthen topped it up with a great slug ofSlivovitz! - plumb brandy to the uninitiated.
I am not being unkind when I say, thesewere large ladies and at the rate thechocolate and Silvovitz was disappearing itis easy to see why. At some point I managedto excuse myself and get to the toilet. The
door to the gents was in a quiet corner of thebar and there sat a couple of elderlygentlemen. They smiled and nodded. I didlikewise and enquired by gesticulations ifthey were part of the coach group. Theynodded and both rolled they eyes.
I sat down beside them. They knew why,like them, I was seeking sanctuary!
I guess the Slivovitz eventually took ittoll, because suddenly it was quiet. Theladies had departed. The three of us stoodat the bar, no longer under threat and had aquiet beer before we to headed back to thehotel.
I took breakfast in my proper diningroom - alone!
They were getting on the coaches whenI took my panniers down to the bike. Lots ofsmiles, head wagging, waves and even afew hand pats. They were obvious wishingme well, as I wished them.
You meet the kindest of people whenyou travel alone.
Barry Tinson
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:28 Page 15
16 SUMMER 2009
I don’t know whether it was the picture of Dibble, or the prizes offered by
those nice people at “The Best Rides”, but we certainly had some entries.
PRIZESThe prizes are all the same, being a copy of
The Best Rides Motorcycle Atlas, France to the four best entries. So in no particular order the four winners are:
Stephen Levis from Cardiff with;
Blimey! Where has my side car gone?.
Mr A Raybould from Norwich with;
Opps! I was sure this was mine!
Graham Seymour with;
With a bit of luck nobody noticed.....
Andy Stryczko with;
I thought you had to be a retired policeman to talk out of there!
Prizes are on their way!
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:28 Page 16
Devon H.O.C. Social Weekend
Ilfracombe Holiday Park, North Devon
2nd - 5th October 2009
BOOKING FORM
Name: ____________________
Address: ____________________
____________________
Phone: ____________________
Price £95 for a two bed “gold” appartment
Please make cheques payable to:John Fowler Holidays
Send to : Pat Jennings, John Fowler Holidays
Marlborough Road, Ilfracombe, Devon EX34 8PF
No later than August 31st 2009and then subject to availability
WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING YOU
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:28 Page 17
18 SUMMER 2009
Once and a while any manufacturer
will produce a showcase motorcycle that
makes everyone else sit up and take
notice. Honda were first off the mark with
the Single Overhead Cam CB750 in 1969,
followed by all the inline four variations.
Honda needed to show their prowess
with a greater challenge, and choosing a
500cc 80 degree V Twin as the first
venture in producing a turbocharged
production motorcycle was it. New
technology was the name of the game
starting with the development of a new
special turbocharger with the smallest
48mm compressor wheel ever produced
and an integral waste gate. It was
designed to spin up to 100,000 rpm and
exploit the power otherwise lost in the
exhaust.
The Turbo was mounted between the
exhaust ports behind the radiator. Air
was drawn through a filter by the
compressor, then fed past a resonator
chamber and a surge tank designed
to smooth the air flow. The boost was
limited to 19 psi which is much
higher than other systems. A sensor
on the inlet side connected to the
waste gate that bypasses the turbine,
in order to keep internal
temperatures under control. The
compression ratio has been lowered
to 7.2 to 1 compared to 10 to 1 of the
standard CX500. The valves were
also made smaller with their opening
times shortened, with intakes at 5
deg BTDC and closing 30 deg ABDC,
with exhausts opening 30 deg BBDC
and closing 5 deg ATDC and all at
1mm lift.
Fuel metering was by injectors
controlled by a management
computer. Information was supplied by
sensors measuring pressure in the air
chamber, surge tank and adjacent to the
injectors, air temperature at the intake,
water coolant and throttle position.
With this information the computer
then controlled the electronic inductive
ignition system and high power coils.
These were necessary to fire the spark
plugs under the more demanding
conditions provided by the turbo. The
computer also had a fail safe system that
covered the throttle or boost pressure to
get you home if there was ever a
problem. In addition there was a new
self- diagnostic system using light
emitting diodes that provided codes for
analyzing faults.
CX500 Turbo
1982
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:29 Page 18
SUMMER 2009 19
Performance was
provided by the peak
power of 82 bhp compared
with 48 bhp on the
standard CX500. To cover
this, the CX500 needed to
be up-rated including the
crank cases, bigger and
stronger clutch, bigger
main and big end
bearings. The lubrication
system which included the plain
bearings in the turbo charger had a
higher capacity as well including a deep
finned sump.
Overall gearing war also raised to
2.056 from 2.242. Also the five internal
gear ratios were also raised, mainly to
speed up the gears further and reduce
engine load. Peak power at 9,000 rpm
gave 128 mph.
The frame was up-graded with a
stronger spine. The front forks were
given a larger diameter with 37mm
stanchions and TRAC adjustable anti-
dive valves mechanically connected to
the twin piston front brake callipers. The
two front units were also air pressure
assisted.
Rear suspension used a light alloy
swinging arm that has been lengthened
to give a longer wheelbase of 58.8ins as
this gave more stable handling. The Pro-
Link rear suspension unit with air
pressure adjustment compensated for
every need.
The wheels were gold finished six
spoke light alloy fabricated Comstars,
measuring 18in front and 17in rear, but
with wider 2.50 rims and
fitted with V rated
Japanese Dunlop Tyres.
The CX500 Turbo was
shown as a concept
prototype machine at the
1980 Cologne Show in
Germany. Two years later
we saw the first
production machines.
As you already
know I have owned
three CX500’s in my
time and the best
was the CX500
“Eurosport”. So the
CX500 Turbo had a
complete fairing and
was based on the Eurosport with a
longer wheel base which makes it very
stable to ride. cont....
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:29 Page 19
20 SUMMER 2009
On the
instrumentation between the speedo and
the rev counter there is a liquid crystal boost
gauge display. On starting the engine and
blipping the throttle, you would notice that
pressure was being generated by the
turbocharger from idle. This led to a very
smooth uptake rather than a sudden rush of
power. Under heavy acceleration the turbo
responded by kicking in the engine power.
At speeds of over 100 mph the down
thrust of the fairing held the machine very
steady. On normal riding days the
machine will average between 45 and
50 mpg and with a tank capacity of 4.4
gallons, re-fuelling happened roughly
every 200 miles.
The perfect riding position the
CX500 Turbo made this the cream of a
perfect touring motorcycle. It would
cruise all day at speeds over 100 mph,
and at the time comparisons between the
CX Turbo and the CB900F were
commonplace, especially as they both had
about the same top speed of 130 mph.
However the CX500 Turbo was a touring
motorcycle with a “Touch of Class” Then in
1983 Honda gave us the CX650 Turbo
refining it to make the perfect machine.
Then the cat had the cream to enjoy.
Let the Good Times Roll
Dave BartonClassic Secretary
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:29 Page 20
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:30 Page 21
22 SUMMER 2009
It’s the 6th May and i’m off to, you
guessed it, Rhodes, my copy of Goldenwing
arrived a few days before so I have
something to keep me entertained on the 4
hour flight going over. In fact, I read it front
to back and found I had arrived in Greece
within what appeared to be no time at all. It’s
my second copy of the Mag and I find it a
great read seeing what all the other
branches (and individuals) are up to (I
particularly enjoyed the trip across the US of
A on a Goldwing)
With 12 of us on the trip to Rhodes
(friends and family of Stacey’s, the other ‘alf)
I knew it wasn’t going to be a boring
vacation, in fact, I was quite pleased we had
been to Turkey a couple of weeks before,
vegetating at an all inclusive Hotel in
Marmaris (having also been skiing in
Slovenia in January and requiring a warm
up!) A member of our party in Rhodes had
ridden motorbikes (well several had ridden)
but Mac was expressing an interest in hiring
out a bike for a couple of days and gave me
the idea of also hiring one.
We trundled around for the first few days
of our holiday doing the touristy thing and
come Sunday, Mac had hired out an XT660.
I was a bit dubious of hiring out a bike as I
have only ridden on the wrong side of the
road once in the USA 17 years ago in a
rather large, 3 Litre Dodge Dynasty. I gave it
another day to see how Mac had got on; as
he was still alive on day 2 I thought I’d give
it a bash. Seeing people ride and drive in
Rhodes doesn’t in-still much want of
“enthusiasm” to be hiring a bike out! I was
lucky that there was a hire company at the
back of our hotel where Mac had got his
from, and it was fairly reasonable at 30
Euro’s for the day with insurance (luckily, we
were still in low season, hence a low price)
It was a swift process getting the bike,
no need for leaving an arm and a leg deposit
as you would in the UK and reading a billion
lines of small print, in fact, I hadn’t even
checked the bike out before handing the
cash over, I’d seen a rather dirty red XT660
outside the shop and decided I’d give it a go.
(there were no Honda’s available other than
ped’s, so they were a no!) I had joked with
the hirer that I fancied the Honda 1300 that
was gleaming and sitting not 2 foot from his
desk but he said his mechanic would be a
bit annoyed if he hired out his bike to
customers! 10 minutes later and we were in
and out with a courtesy map of the island (all
77KM of it in length) we were at the very top
of the island near Rhodes old town and with
some terrific views across to Turkey which
was 17 miles away, so we had nowhere to
go other than South! The rest of our party
had gone to Lindos for the day so having
looked at the map, that’s where we decided
to head for. Having managed to scrape
10Euro’s of petrol into the tank at the local
Shell Station, the sun out (thank god) we
were off.
Now I hadn’t exactly packed for this
early summer holiday with the intention of
Motor-biking around it. Stacey at least had
jeans and had we come off, at least she was
slightly protected. Whereas I was in K Swiss
trainers, some urban camo shorts and a Ben
Sherman white T-shirt (White t-shirt and hot
sunny climate with flying bug’s riding a
Motorbike may not have been the wisest of
choices, in fact, it was probably the worse
choice I had made that week)
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:30 Page 22
SUMMER 2009 23
With virtually one road going round the
islands perimeter, even I wasn’t going to get
lost doing this run, (there was also no place
called Aldershot, so that was another
advantage; local branch joke, wink, wink)
sure enough, having got out of the mayhem
traffic of the harbour and old city, we were
seeing signposts for Falaraki (a point we
needed to pass to reach Lindos) the first 30
odd Kilometres were a bit tedious, I’d have
said we were in fact riding in the UK as we
were going through single file road-works!.
Well, at least they were actually working on
the road as opposed to supping cups of tea
by it.
Riding slower than I normally would and
with both of us having open faced helmets,
I noticed how odd it was being able to have
a normal conversation whilst trundling along
on our intrepid adventure. At the end of the
road-works that felt like they ran the length
of the island, we started to see signs for
Lindos and “the Beach” which we headed
for. I was rather intrigued how small the
beach was and all the pebbles (and lack of
people) so we phoned a member of our
“beaching it for the day” party, who had
decided to take the 1 hour + Bus journey
down and asked them if they were near
“about half way” came the reply. So, we
decided to find a shady spot and have some
freshly squeezed orange juice and take a
look at the next part of our journey on the
map. Half hour went by and we
called back to the party, they
had arrived and were
apparently looking over a vast
sandy beach which had a
yacht and a ferry boat moored
up in the bay and a rather large
“castle” on the top of a hill.
Being slightly more different to
the view we was looking at
(nigh on empty beach minus
the yacht) I enquired at the
beach bar waiter as to where
we were on the map, he
pointed to the next bay down
from Lindos, (what did I say
about getting lost?)
Luckily, it was only a 5 minute ride over
the next ridge to get to Lindos and the view
was somewhat quite amazing, having
turned the last bend, the castle came into
view sitting majestically on its hill, guarding
the harbour (several hundred feet below) as
if to say to its enemy “you can have a go if
you’re feeling lucky” I think I’d have turned
the boat round if I was attacking. We saw
the sign leading us to the harbour and I
must have looked like the “green cross code
man” having made many “left and right”
looks (still getting used to this wrong side of
the road malarkey).
It was a steep and quite narrow hill
leading to the harbour and we played dodge
the pedestrian for most of it (successfully I
might add) an RAB greeted us half way
down the hill where the Taxi’s were also
stationed and this was as far as we went on
wheels. We did a quick “u-ee” and parked
up by some wheelie bins (hoping with the
state of the bike it was in, it was not
mistaken as rubbish and it would still be
there on our return) our party were waiting
for their food in a nearby Café (we heard the
usual Cooooie! You get when you have
been seen) and quipped they had still
beaten us there despite their somewhat
“different” type of a bus journey.
Taz In Not the Lindos Harbour
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:30 Page 23
24 SUMMER 2009
As we wanted to get round the whole of
the island, we decided to press on down the
narrow path’s leading to the harbour, there
were Donkey rides available down the steep
hill but they already looked in a sad and
pathetic state to me. I personally find it
unfair that these creatures get abused at the
cost of Human laziness. How ironic they are
aptly named “Beasts of Burden”, there were
certainly some burdeness loads being taken
at the time. The walk took us past many
nooks and crannies with small shops selling
the usual tourist items (namely fridge
magnets) there was also a tiny church which
looked like I could not have stood up in,
painted in the traditional Greek “White”
theme with hints of blue. The last part of the
walk was the steepest and lugging a
rucksack and crash helmets wasn’t making
it easier.
The Beach was fantastic, almost
enticing us to stay for the day (we had
swimwear) but despite a paddle in the
cooling water, it was onwards and upwards
(more upwards in fact, the hill seemed to get
steeper going back, but then don’t they
always??) we bumped into Mac on his blue
XT660 at the car park, he had already done
the island the day before so pressed on
under his own steam and left us to our “Mini
Adventure” no BMW’s here though, just 2
wheels.
As we turned left out of the harbour
road, I noticed a photo opportunity in a lay
by which looked across to the castle and
harbour. An Amphitheatre could be seen on
the hill under the Castle; a trek for anyone
seeing the latest pop group of the time!
Coming out of Lindos, there were only a
couple of small towns we passed through, it
was following the coastal line more or less
and the cooling breeze was welcome. We
were now heading for Prasonisi. Traffic was
nigh on extinct with just the odd Cement
mixer and Taxi to overtake, this is what
biking is all about, open roads and no traffic,
heaven. After one slight “hiccup” we took a
wrong turn, or rather missed where I should
have turned, we made a recovery which
cost about 15KM, we had somehow ended
back up on the road we came down to
Lindos on as there were some familiar
hotels we had already seen.
Having now come inland slightly and
venturing over some twisty mountainous
peaks (a joy to ride on) we once again
started to see various brown signs
indicating to beaches that we were near. We
managed to find some speed humps (the
roads aren’t in the best of nick yet they still
build speed humps, yep, this could be the
UK!) through one town after our minor
detour but were soon back following a long
coast line down to Prasonisi. The sun was at
its hottest now and despite
doing 90+KMH, it was still
burning on the skin. The view
across the sea was amazing,
the sun shimmering upon the
water only being disturbed by
the odd boat bobbing along.
I could feel the pillion
getting a bit fidgety and put it
down to the fact we had been
on the bike for a while. We
were coming into more built up
areas having run a good 40
minutes on straight open roads
with just the odd tumble weed
crossing our path (well, it felt
like there should have been
anyway)Lindos Castle
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:30 Page 24
SUMMER 2009 25
With welcome signs popping up for our
destination, we made a final turn en route to
the southernmost part of Rhodes. The wind
by now was quite strong, it appeared the
mountain range we were passing through
was funnelling it and giving it strength.
As we came into Prasonisi, we were
ushered to a spot where the bikes were
parked (next to a café where no doubt the
usher also worked) but it was none the less
a welcome sight. I asked Miss Pillion if the
bottom was aching due to the noticeable
fidgeting earlier. Apparently not however, as
we had appeared to have gone through a
bug infested stretch of road and the bugs
were ricocheting off of one’s helmet straight
down the top of Miss Pillion who was
plucking them out as fast as they were
landing! A fact that I had noticed as the
swine’s had also been slamming into my
bear skin extremities with some force.
Having downed the rather refreshing
Frappe with Ice Cream (and lathered up in
suncream) we had a stroll on the beach,
well, two actually as this part of the island
had a broad piece of sand before meeting
land once again. The Kite surfers were
making the most of the wind and we could
see why it was such a popular spot for them,
speeding up and down the water as if in
some sort of synchronised display. I felt like
taking the bike on it (the sand that is) though
it would have not been insured (beaches
are excluded) and I was talked out of it. It
was a bit of a trek had I ended up stranded
but cars were driving over it fine, still, rain
check for another time on that one.
Time to tour the West part of Rhodes
and with a couple of very interesting POI’s
on the map, it looked like an even more
interesting journey than our first half.
Though I was somewhat confused as to
why there was an abundance of Petrol
stations indicated on the far right of the
island but not the left. I put this down to “who
reads maps anyway” and “there must be a
petrol station somewhere along that route”
an assumption that later turned out to be
true, luckily for me.
The initial part of the journey had much
the same scenery as our last half, though of
course we were now on a different route.
We passed the odd farmer tending their
crops and passed some “huts” with
cardboard signs indicating “Café” in the
most bizarre, remotest of places. It was a
wonder how they made any business but I
suspected they belonged to the farmers
who would no doubt return from their field
should any punters pull up.
Monolithos was the first “mound” to visit
and the views on the roads leading up to it
were spectacular. Riding near the side of
sheer drops off the edge of the road I was
pleased there was no traffic coming, indeed,
from any direction. A swerve to the right and
I would have been back on the skiing
holiday minus skis. Apparently some of the
Abba movie, Ma-ma mia, had been filmed at
this location and I can understand why.
There were quite a few steps that led us
up to the tiny church at the peninsular. The
very thick walls provided some wanted
shelter at this point; I couldn’t help noticing
just how much cooler the church was
compared to the mid afternoon sun outside
which was now bellowing heat out like a
furnace. The view from the church
overlooked some small islands (photo’s)
and the peace and quiet of the place
reflected upon why the church had been
built on this remote spot.
Monolithos & Bike!
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:30 Page 25
26 SUMMER 2009
Arms now feeling a bit sore, exposed tothe sun since 10AM with obviously not ahigh enough factor cream on, we moved offand towards Kritinia Castle. Entering the carpark was a somewhat “wobbly” experiencesince a Lizard about a foot long came fromnowhere. It went behind the front wheel andI waited for the crunching sound, only to findI must have broke at the right moment as hecontinued to scarper across the road. I wasinstructed by Miss Stacey to execute anymore as she would prefer that than towobble, that’s love of animals for you.
The climb to the castle wasn’t quite asfar as the one at Monolithos but the viewswere no less spectacular, looking out acrossseveral more islands that appeared to behovering in the afternoon haze that hadstarted to form.
Mac had warned me that the road on thewest side was being worked on withsomewhat less “enthusiasm” as the Eastside; he wasn’t wrong. “Loose Gravel”indicated the sign for “3KM” Joy, especiallywith shorts on. Now in my lessons last year“slow and steady” was the notion with “goeasy on the brakes” following on. I had nointention of doing anything but; avoiding thehundreds of potholes like some sort ofspace invader game I was once again gladthe road was empty. We were going fromone side of it to the other to avoid thegouges. I was more than relieved when wehit tarmac again, I didn’t realise 3km couldfeel like 300.
Just one more stop at “Apollo’s Temple”was on the list as time was cracking on, the
bike had to be back for 7, though I wasalready considering hiring it another day ifthere was more to do. The ride took us rightnext to the beach and the westerly breezewas more welcome than ever as my armsfelt like they were on fire at the last stop.The recognisable radar globe on the top ofthe hill near the airport could be seen in thedistance so I knew we would be back in anhour or so. Traffic was also now building upas we came into civilisation near the airport.A small sign that we nearly missed indicateda small slip road to our right had the Temple1km down it. We drove passed somehouses and some railings with a plaque onbut didn’t think it could be the Temple as thegrass was overgrown but it was.
There were some stones at the end ofthe field and it didn’t appear to be much of aTemple but I ticked it off the list anyway aftera brief pose for a photo before we finishedour day off. Traffic passed the airport wasresembling the M25 in rush hour and theroad-works weren’t helping the situation.Coming to halt after a brief diversion I foundsome narrow back allies and took someshortcuts that “felt” right and that carsobviously couldn’t get down, it paid off. Wewere soon on the main road once againheading for the hotel.
We made a brief “flypast of the harbour”viewing the new cruise liners that had comeinto port before stopping for our lastrefreshment, an ice cold coffee and can ofcoke. I de-bugged the helmets of their road-kill, it was like carrying out an autopsy andmy Ben Sherman now resembled a “splatattack” art painting done by Nursery schoolchildren.
Getting utterly confused by the one waysystem surrounding the hotel I gave up inthe end and made, from what I recall, myonly breach of road regulations during theday (other than perhaps the odd fracture ofNSL’s) and went through the no entry signwhich the hire shop was sitting just behind.
Both back alive after a very muchenjoyable day, time to find another island togo the “long way round” on.
Here’s to more Happy Summer Riding
Taz
Stacey at Kitrinia Castle
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:30 Page 26
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:30 Page 27
28 SUMMER 2009
Motorcycle Safety andElectronically Controlled C-ABSSystem for Honda Sportsbikes
Honda Institute 18th March 2009
We had two members attend this day,courtesy of Honda, and both were soimpressed that they both sent in reports forpublication. The first is from Chris Ward ofReading Branch, followed on page 30 byDanny Beck from Northants & MiltonKeynes. Ed
The weather forecast was perfect as Iset off for the short drive over to the HondaInstitute at Colnbrook, near HeathrowAirport. I had a gut feeling this was going tobe a good day. Once at the Institute I wasgreeted by Alex Thrussell who checked mydriving licence and sorted out the necessarypaperwork to allow me to ride later in theday. The group attending was made up ofmedia journalists and motorcycle clubmembers and when all had signed in wemade our way to a conference room wherewe were provided with refreshments beforethe presentations began.
We were introduced to the day’sprogram by Fiona Cole who led us throughthe usual housekeeping and safetyinformation before handing us over to DaveHancock, who is Head of CustomerOperations, Honda (UK) and HondaMotorcycle Development Test Rider. Dave’spresentation on safety began with anoverview of their development from theHonda Rider Simulator to the current RiderTrainer; an example of which was availablefor us try. The next part of the presentationconcentrated on conspicuity. We wereshown that frontal views which closelyresemble the human face were more easilydetected by oncoming road users. Lighting
was also discussed with lights placed atdifferent heights accentuating thelongitudinal size of the motorcycle. Thepresentation continued with the history ofHonda’s braking systems from theintroduction of the disc brake on the 1969CB750 right up to the combined ABScurrently used. We were also given a shortpresentation on the development of air bagsafety systems for motorcycles.
We were then handed over to OliverFuchs from Honda R&D Europe who gaveus a presentation on the new electronicallycontrolled combined ABS that is nowavailable on 2009 CBR600RR andCB1000RR models. One of the problemsfacing the design engineers was thatcurrently available ALB systems could notprovide the stability required for supersportsmotorcycles. This has been overcome byeffectively providing an electronic, brake bywire system. Naturally should there be anyfault or failure of any of the systemselectronic components the brakes revert toa conventional hydraulic set up.
We were split into two groups and I wasassigned to the first with a CBR1000RR asmy test bike. After changing into ourleathers we went to the rear of the buildingfor the brake testing demonstration and trial.The brake test consisted of two, coned off,separate lanes in the rear car park. Onelane had been soaked in water, while theother was covered in sand, an interestingand normally frightening set of roadconditions. The test rider made a couple ofpasses up and down the car park tofamiliarise himself with the bike, brakingheavily on the dry surface. He then speddown the car park and braked hard onto thewet surface. There was no drama or theslightest loss of stability, the bike coming torest in a straight line with no loss of controlor wheel lock up.
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SUMMER 2009 29
This was repeated before the sandcovered surface was attacked, but eachtime the same result was obtained, whichwas truly impressive. We were then, in turn,told to mount up and try the test ourselves.After a couple of guys had their runs it wasmy turn. I jumped aboard my Fireblade andspun up the willing engine.
It was showing just over 200 miles onthe clock so was still a very new bike.Although I have ridden Fireblades beforethis was the first time I had tried one with theelectronic steering damper. I found the bikevery easy to manoeuvre at low speeds andU turns in the car park presented nodifficulty. First gear was quite high, althoughthat is something I am used to with my ownbike, and was all that was needed for thebraking tests.
I ran up and down the dry section of thecar park to get used to the brakes and theheaded for the wet section. I think becauseof the professionalism of the presentations,understanding how the systems work and ofcourse seeing others do the test before me,I had no fear whatsoever about grabbing abig handful of brake as I hit the wet area.
The bike pulled up as if there had beenno water on the road at all. There was nosensation of the ABS working at all, nopulsation at the lever and no noise from thetyre. I repeated the test again before movingonto the sanded surface. Each timehowever the result was the same. It was anamazing feeling be able to performemergency stops safely under these sorts ofconditions.
After the brake test we were given ashort briefing before heading out for ourextended road test. I was at the back of thegroup which was quite nice, allowing me tocatch up with the other riders whennecessary. The test ride featured around 30miles of motorway, A and B roads of allspeed limits. As mentioned earlier I haveridden Fireblades before, but this model iswithout doubt the best I have ever sampled.The riding position was fine for me, offeringmore comfort than my NC30 with lessweight on my wrists. The seat was maybea little long for me as I’m not the tallest andI did find myself slipping backwards when Iturned my right hand! The electronicsteering damper is a superb addition and
stops the front end wagging compared toearlier Blades and the brakes are awesome,being able to haul the bike down from speedwith consummate ease.
Although I didn’t explore the full potentialof the engine, let’s just say it could overtakeanything safely without any fuss. Theengine emitted a superb growl when theflaps in the exhaust opened and I couldn’timagine anyone wanting to change this foran aftermarket system.
As mentioned earlier, the bike is quitehigh geared and I think it could probablyreach around 90MPH in first gear. As aresult, I managed to stall the bike at ajunction at one point. After pulling into theroad and having to play catch up, a turn ofthe throttle produced a very graceful frontwheel lift purely due to the power withoutany encouragement from the rider. Thebikes handling was fantastic and I found itvery easy to change direction. The tyresalso offered plenty of grip and althoughslightly warm at the end of the ride I wasquite surprised to see how wide the chickenstrips were as I thought I had leant it overquite far!
After we returned to The Honda Institutewe had a buffet lunch followed by a tour ofthe impressive facility which houses somelovely pieces of history including twoRC30s, an RC45 several NS400 enginesand evens parts from an NR750. Duringthis part of the day we were able to inspecta C-ABS equipped CB600RR bike that hadbeen partially dismantled, allowing us to seethe location of the various components.
It really was a shame to give the bikeback as it was one of the best test rides I’vehad the pleasure of taking. If I were in themarket for a new bike, I wouldn’t look anyfurther than the Fireblade and without doubtI would pay the extra for C-ABS version.
The Electronic C-ABS is a major leapforward in motorcycle safety and will, I’msure, enable riders to stay in control in thosepanic braking situations which many of ushave experienced in the past. In fact I’dbetter start saving now.
Chris Ward
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30 SUMMER 2009
My day started nice and early; first,check out the weather, a quick look out ofthe window, DAM IT, its foggy, not ideal formy trek down to The Honda Institute inSlough, never mind its happening anyway.So, I shower, and then straight into myleathers, no need for breakfast, as I haveprevious knowledge of The Honda Institute.
Then its load up the bike (HondaGoldwing 1800 today) Comms on, Phoneon, Music on, Satnav on, launch sequenceinitiated, Lift Off. SatNav says motorway,brain says not. SatNav wins. 30 minutesinto the journey and the fog seems to beburning off. After 1hr 20 minutes I arrive atThe Honda Institute, although 20 minutes ofthe journey was spent filtering (no mean featon a Goldwing) but no real dramas. I parkedup in the car park in front of The HondaInstitute, using a space allocated for threenormal sized bikes (nothing unusual there)de-robed, plenty of room on the Goldwing touse as a changing room, stowed my kit andmade my way to reception.
I was greeted by Alexandra Thrussell,Media & PR Officer, and Fiona Cole PRCommunications Manager (Motorcycles) tobe signed in, and on production of mydriving license was deemed to be showingoff by Alex, as my license showed that Icould drive and ride anything, and with nopoints or endorsements. After my signing inand name badge firmly pinned on, I wasasked to take a seat where all invited partieswere assembling, all of course, with aninterest in motorbikes, and mostly all ridersat some time.
In speaking to some of the other people,it became very evident that, if notpersonally, almost everyone there, atsometime, has had experience withmotorbike accidents, myself on a verypersonal level. This was very apt, as themain focus of Honda is SAFTEY, and that’sthe purpose of this THE SAFTEYWORKSHOP, and also to demonstrate thenew Electronically Controlled C-ABSbraking System for Honda Superbikes.
When everyone had been signed in, wewere escorted through the facility by Alexand Fiona and invited to partake inrefreshments. As I had been fortunate invisiting The Institute before, I knew thiswould be the case, hence no breakfast.
After a while we were shown into theconference room where the technical side ofthe new braking system was to beexplained, with the assistance of a PowerPoint presentation.
Heading up the conference were DaveHancock Head of Customer OperationsHonda (UK) and Honda Motorcycle testrider Oliver Fuchs, Section ManagerMotorcycle Engineering, Honda R&DEurope (Germany). Also sitting in, and testrider on the day was John McGuinessfourteen times Isle of Man TT winner.
There were plenty of opportunities to askquestions both during and after theconference, although, as the speakers werevery thorough and spelled out everything ineasy to understand terms, very little neededto be asked. All finished, we were split intotwo groups, so as to distribute the load onthe test bikes that were available for testing,and asked to make our way out to the testarea. The bikes on test that were fitted withthe new Electronically Controlled C-ABSsystem were the CBR 1000 RR FirebladeABS and the CBR 600 RR ABS
In anticipation, I was hoping to beallocated a CBR 600 RR ABS for my testbike, as my own motor bikes are all largecapacity and I do not very often get thechance to ride the smaller engine machines.Groups selected, I was in the first group,and YES, my name was on the board, alongside the CBR 600 RR ABS, ‘GREAT’.
The test road was set out to the rear ofthe facility, and had three different roadscenarios.
1. Normal road surface with good grip.
2. Road surface was very wet in the brake test zone.
3. Road surface was covered with loose sand over the test zone
John McGuiness, as the expert rider,was the first to mount his trusty steed andshow us other mere mortals what we shouldbe expecting. A few passes up and down thetest area, applying the brakes heavily, hadour lower jaws dropping at the results ofwhat we were seeing.
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SUMMER 2009 31
One by one we took it in turns to mountour bikes and ride the test road. Then it wasmy turn. Although I had just seen othersriding over the test road, with no problems,what did I expect? What feedback was I toget. Heavy breaking on road surfaces suchas these would normally be avoided like theplague. Oh well here goes; A pass on thenormal surface first, line up, accelerate,enter the braking zone, apply the brakes,done, no drama. Enough of that then, nowlet’s try the wet road, a road condition I amsure that we are all familiar with, althoughI’m sure that we would all avoid heavybraking if at all possible. Line up, accelerateinto the zone, and apply the brakes, perfect,how’s that?, just check the road to makesure that its wet, yep, it sure is. Ok we willdo that again, and I did, several times, withamazing results every time, amazing to thefact that there was no drama and all wascompletely uneventful.
Now it’s time to enter the no go zone,normally taboo, loose sand on the road. I’vejust witnessed it, so it must be ok; even so,I have to find out for myself. Same as theother runs, line up, accelerate, good speed,into the test zone, and grab the brakes,same as the other passes. The CBR 600 RRABS pulled up as if the sand was nonexistent. Now, full of confidence in thebrakes, more speed, and increasing withevery pass, even with the tail end of the bikesnaking from side to side, the bike stillmanaged to achieve maximumdeceleration, without drama, and incomplete safety. And yes, that is what I thinkthe new Electronically Controlled C-ABSsystem allows the rider to achieve.Maximum declaration without drama, incomplete SAFTEY.
I was enjoying the test so much that Icould have stayed on it all day, and then Ihad the nod to pit. When asked what Ithought of the system, at the time all that Icould say was, “unbelievable.”
John McGuiness said to me, that hethought that I was the most aggressive rideron the brakes to do the brake testing, Ithought that’s what it was all about, test it tothe limit, never found it, don’t think its gotone.
Now it was time to put it to the test undernormal road conditions. After doing the
normal check to see that all was ready toroll, we set off, armed with our route maps,just in case we got split up, escort rider asrun leader, and John McGuiness as tail endCharlie.
We rode off towards the M25 and thenonto the M40 before turning back inlandonto some more rural roads through townsand villages. Along the way we wereentertained by John McGuiness comingpast us on his back wheel (hope this doesn’tget you into trouble John) and overall weexperienced a good variety of roadsurfaces, bends, and braking situations. Wethen returned to the Honda Institute andparked up where I am sure others wereanxiously awaiting to make sure that thebikes were returned in a rideable condition.After a chat and time to reflect on the ride,followed by time for a couple of informalphotos, time to get out of the leathers andhave some lunch. Yes more greathospitality. Over lunch we had time to chatand reflect on the brake testing, I felt theconsensus was extremely good to the factthat this is a faultless braking system.
After lunch an invitation was given tohave a tour of the facility, a few of us took upthe offer and was escorted around by a veryinformative technician. The tour justbolstered the fact that Honda’s main focus ison SAFETY: Excellent. The day was overand it was time to go home. This time Ifollowed my head and not the SAT NAV.
To sum up, the electronically controlledC-ABS braking system is excellent, and inuse, very uneventful, and that’s whatbraking should be. If you didn’t have anyknowledge that the system was fitted to themachine that you were riding, you justwouldn’t know how much the system washelping you out under severe braking. Roadconditions such as wet surfaces, and looseroad surfaces such as sand on the road, likethe ones we tested, will always dictate theoutcome, of the input, given by the rider.This braking system eliminates the error thatis made by the rider, in a reflex brakingsituations, as well as having the most usualfeeling in normal braking situations.
Danny Beck
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32 SUMMER 2009
DDDDOOWWNNOOWWNN YYYYOOUURROOUURR WWWWAAYYAAYYReports from the Branches
Now that the good weather has started
we are starting to get out and about a bit
more on the bikes, with a rideout to Foxton
Locks, which was a nice ride in good
weather and a nice place to visit. We also
had a small trip to the Stoke Goldington
Steam Rally (Just me and the twins).
In April I threw a small party for my 50th
Birthday to which a large number of my
branch and a few from around the country
also came including John and Jude Steve
and Maureen
from West
L o n d o n ,
Barbara and
Alan Pam and
Dave from
Solent Jenny
f r o m
Northampton
and Erica
Gerald and
William from
Oxford. A good
time was had
by all I think.
Thank you all
for coming and
thank you again for all the thoughtful gifts (I
need never buy another bottle of whiskey
again hic!).
Our rally, which we had in advance
christened 'the wet one' after successive
years of miserable weather, turned out very
nice. Many of our regulars turned out from
our own and other branches, including a
new guy (Jimmy) from Huntingdon on his
CBF600 who was good company all
weekend.
We had a nice ride out led by Roger
Elvin through the Cambridgeshire and
Suffolk countryside for Saturday lunch at a
greasy spoon. Roger used to lead our runs
for many years and always picks good
roads and keeps a good constant pace,
perfect for group rides (thank you Rog.).
BEDFORDSHIRESecretary: Glen Pringle - 07702 233 524
Enough said!
Steve Tyler
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:31 Page 32
SUMMER 2009 33
The run was followed by our usual
Barbecue in the evening. Then on Sunday I
tried to find an interesting route for our ride
out to the Ace Cafe for
the Honda day.
By the time you
read this we will have
had our annual outing
to France which sees
most of our branch led
by Chairman Ian Parris
sampling the delights
of Arras and its vicinity.
The July 26th sees
us hosting the HOC
roast, and in June,
August and September we hope to have
large contingents at the Solent, Oxford and
National Rallies – well I'm
going definitely and I'm pretty
large!
Having appeared on the
front cover last month on my
KAWASAKI! I should like to
thank Graham for sending the
photo in and especially the
editor for including it; I've
been smiling ever since. On
the Honda front our member
Ian Woodcock bought a shiny
new CB1300 which looks
gorgeous and I bought a
CBF125 on which I look
ridiculous; I hope this makes
up for the Kwaka.
After basically a happy report, I'm afraid
I have to report some bad news. A very dear
friend Elaine Stamp has
passed away having been a
member of our branch for
many years, in company with
her husband Bob who
passed away a while back.
Elaine had been fighting
cancer for many years, and
was a caring and loving soul
who will be sorely missed by
many. My lasting memory will
be of the lakes rally a few
years back where Elaine,
Heather, Ian and I (Ian is also sadly no
longer with us) went by car! The forecast
was awful but it was a lovely
weekend. Elaine’s funeral will have
been on the 5th of June.
At times like these you
appreciate the friends you have and
how lucky we are in this club to have
had so many wonderful people to
share life with. God Bless
Glen
more rally pic over...
Who ordered Flame Grilled?
John & Pete at the Steam Rally
Refined Eating - Dave, Mick & Jimmy
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:31 Page 33
34 SUMMER 2009
Glen
Erica Jimmy & Pam
Annee & Mark
Erica & friends
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36 SUMMER 2009
BIRMINGHAMBranch Contact: Nick Parton - 0121 603 8983
And they are off!!
We have started our schedule of ride
outs and the first one was lead by John &
Debbs Churchill, with Big Dave and Ann-
Maria bringing up the rear; Dave knows his
place in the club. Ho ho! John took us on a
great trip to Burford in the Cotswolds, via
Stratford upon Avon, 11 machines and 15
members.
Apparently according
Forbes magazine Burford
is designated the sixth
most idyllic place in
Europe and for those
Yanks wanting to buy
property in the UK, it was
that the first place to look.
We soon sorted that out, it’s now, as
desirable as Tipton in the Black Country,
thanks to Dave doing victory wheelies up
and down the high street on his Pan. Roy
had a chance to air his new leathers 'Sex on
two Wheels' .The ride back was via The
Fosseway and back to Stratford, weather
was fantastic as was the company.
We have all had to have a word with
Ray? The shocks on his ‘Sachs’ (yes I know,
we have had several words with him) have
been a source of amusement to members
for some time now. Its very scary and almost
hypnotic, if you’re behind him going into a
bend, they seem to oscillate and weave
rhythmically, even Ray has noticed
something is not right, I hear you say Ray
has noticed? He is an engineer you know.
The word from the membership after due
consideration, contemplation and a mass
debate is, that they are actually F****ked.
Even the girls have noticed the rhythmic
oscillations of Ray’s shocks, he likes that
thought. Get em sorted for France, Ray.
I led our next ride out which was to the
Thunder Sprint, Northwich, in sunny
Cheshire. We set off early in good weather
and all met Bassett’s Pole. We comprised of
two BMW’s, one Suzuki, one Yamaha and
two Hondas;
the Honda
Owners Club?
Oh well they
have all had
Hondas in the
past, and it
does speak
well for the club
that members
want to remain
members even
when they
change bikes.
The ride up was a bit monotonous on the A5
and M6, but we had to do the hard yards to
get there and see Mr Toseland doing
donuts. The day was good, very busy; too
busy really, it was difficult getting around the
town. Traders had set where ever they
wanted to, selling crappy sunglasses and
sex aids? Around the Thunder Sprint
course so you couldn’t even see the track?
If they are reading this, the organisers really
need to sort that for next year.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:32 Page 36
SUMMER 2009 37
Trev and Geoff
are both making
steady recoveries but
are still a long way off
getting back on their
bikes though. Geoff
has got to have a second operation on his
back, the Doc’s missed one the damaged
vertebrae, when they did the first operation.
Not sure Doctor is the right word? The club
wishes you both speedy recoveries, you are
both missed on the ride outs, as is Jean,
Geoff’s wife who used to keep us to all in
check on the rides. Get it sorted Guys.
We are all gearing up for our French
Excursion, at the beginning of June 2009
that Ann and Dave have organised. We are
going over via the Tunnel, stopping in
Calais. They have planned a few ride outs
one into Belgium and I understand they are
also planning some mystery gastronomic
adventures as well. Not sure what those will
entail, snail and frit? I will let you know in my
next report.
Our Camping Weekend is reaching the
final planning stages. Debbs and John along
with Dave and Ann-Marie have spent some
considerable time and effort on this. We are
going back to one of our old sites at Wolvey,
not far from Hinckley, just of Watling Street
(A5). We have purchased a new Gazebo for
the event and the girls are planning to do
breakfasts and also a barbi, all at a very
reasonable cost. The site has good facilities
and it would be good to see as many of you
there that can make it. You will enjoy it.
Wayne is doing a sterling job, as our
‘scoop’ having taken over from Dave ‘Kiwi’
Langdon our antipodean correspondent. He
is also wrestling with the web site and he will
crack it soon. Roy continues to threaten
members ‘with menaces’ with the raffle. The
prizes he sources continue to
generate much amusement with
the members. For instance last
month I won a pocket Air Band
Scanner, not! It’s massive, like
the radio’s they have on ‘Ashes
to Ashes’. I have given it back to
Roy, for some other lucky punter
to win. You can have too much of a good
thing.
Personally, I went to the Red Marley
Freak Hill Climb, Easter Monday. What a
fantastic day out, if you haven’t been, do it
next year, you will enjoy it. The all comers
winner this year ‘King of The Hill’ is Arthur
Browning and what a final it was. Yes, the
Arthur Browning, he is 64 you can’t believe
how he handles his 1965 ‘Jawa Metisse’
500.
Keith is getting himself a new machine,
he going for a BMW GSA, JPR is looking to
trade up as well I understand he’s looking to
get an Ex Plod Pan.
Keep it sane.
Nick
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:32 Page 37
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Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:32 Page 39
40 SUMMER 2009
LINGS HONDA
At Lings Honda we offer the full range of
Honda motorcycles, including the incredible
new CBR1000R and the legendary
Goldwing to the entry level CBR125. We
offer superb finance options, and our highly
trained staff will be more than happy to talk
you through your choices to make sure the
Honda motorcycle you choose is absolutely
perfect for you. With superb deals available
both online and in our showroom, there's no
reason to look anywhere else for the best
deal.
For over 50 years Lings Honda has been
the premier dealership for all new and used
Honda Motorcycles in East Anglia. With 4
dealerships across East Anglia, including
our multi-million pound 40,000 sq ft acre
flagship Honda Brand Centre in Lowestoft,
Suffolk, encompassing every Honda product
division under one roof - the first of it's kind
in Europe, we offer the complete Honda
experience under one roof.
At the core of our success has been our
devotion to delivering the highest standards
of customer service throughout the buying
process - from initial contact with one of our
friendly, highly trained sales advisors to
exceptional after-sales care. Further to
this, as the largest stockist of Honda
Motorcycle Parts in Europe we offer
complete confidence in our ability to supply
the parts you need for hassle-free riding.
We are hugely proud of our reputation for
reliability, honesty and value we have
cultivated, and are constantly striving to
improve yet further. Give us a call or pop
into one of our showrooms today to see how
we can help you.
LINGS - FOR EVERYTHING HONDA.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:32 Page 40
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42 SUMMER 2009
BRISTOLBranch Contact: Pete Casling - 01454 416417
I hope all of you have had plenty of
opportunities to get out and about on your
Hondas this Spring and Summer.
Considering the reasonable weather we've
had (up to the time of writing this), there
really was no excuse not to make the most
of it! There's still plenty of this year left, so
let's hope that we get a good Autumn too.
Since the last Bristol Branch report,
we've had our first scheduled Sunday ride,
in March, to the National Motorcycle
Museum near Birmingham. Unfortunately,
due to unforseen circumstances, our two
regular participants were unable to take
part, much to their disappointment. So we,
namely my father on his bike, and me on
mine, both went as we had been looking
forward to visiting the museum for some
time. It had been a while since we last went
there, and long before catastrophic the fire
which consumed it. For those who haven't
been, it is virtually a history of British
motorcycles (no Japs allowed!), displayed in
a vast, spotless building, in conditions not
normally associated with British bikes! Well,
some exhibits are just so special, they really
should be kept clean! It really is an amazing
recovery from the ashes of the fire. We shall
return again next year, so that those who
couldn't go will see what they missed.
Recently, we've had a few more
potential members attend meetings and ride
outs. Two 'visitors' came to our March and
June meetings, and are interested in joining
the HOC. At the same meeting we had a
visit from one 'long lost member' who we
haven't seen for a long time. Welcome back,
J.J.! He was keen to get out on his VFR750
again after a long lay-up, so on Easter
Sunday, the two of us went for a ride over
the Severn Bridge to the popular
Abergavenny bike meet, returning via
Monmouth and the picturesque Wye Valley.
J.J.'s now keen to get out on the bike a lot
more to make up for lost time!
For our scheduled April ride out, we had
a tour around the Cotswolds. After making
enquiries about the HOC, prospective
members Pete and Karen Wood joined us
on a VFR800Fi (a fast one, because it's
red). The 'us' was Andy and Tracey Cox,
J.J., Ram Thiyagarajah, and me for a
pleasant tour meandering around the
Cotswolds via many of the the well-known
towns. The day started off dry and bright, if
a little chilly, so after an hour or so a very
welcome stop for coffee and a warm-up was
made at McDonalds in Cirencester. (We had
intended to use Greasy Joe's, but it's now
closed on Sundays. Doh!) J.J. was rather
impressed with the toilet's hand dryer, so
much so, that he wanted one like it at home.
Not only did it dry your hands most
efficiently (it very nearly blasted them off
your arms!), but it also had a blue light
illuminating your hands. That matched the
blue side-lights fitted to his bike!
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:33 Page 42
SUMMER 2009 43
As it happened, I had unwittingly
scheduled our tour of the Cotswolds for the
same day that the Birmingham Branch were
also doing a Cotswolds run, and we had
hoped we might meet up with them
somewhere along the way. Passing through
Burford, we spotted a row of Hondas parked
up at the roadside, which could only have
been theirs. Unfortunately, Burford, being so
popular, was by that time 'full up' as it very
often is, and there really was nowhere for us
to park, so we decided to carry on to
Bourton-on-the-Water for our lunch stop. It
was very busy here too, but we nabbed a
very convenient adjacent pair of car spaces
right in the middle of Bourton to park our five
bikes, much to the annoyance of car drivers!
A Sunday lunch of fish and chips and tea
was had by all of us, sitting in warm
sunshine, and then it was back to the bikes
to carry on the rest of out tour. Car drivers,
seeing us heading back towards our bikes,
were waiting for us to vacate our two
spaces, so we took our time in getting
saddled-up! We headed via Stow-on-the-
Wold to Broadway, and then on to the
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam
Railway at Toddington to have a photo-stop
and an ice cream. (A trip there just for a ride
on the steam train is a possibility for next
year, too.) After that, we carried on into
Cheltenham, Cirencester again, and then
back to our starting point. Since then, Pete
and Karen have joined the HOC, and they
hope to join us regularly at meetings and on
our outings.
The following weekend, Andy Cox and
myself joined in the Oxford Branch's Test
Ride day at Abingdon Honda. This was an
absolutely fantastic day, where we were
able to test a wide range of bikes, from the
CBR125 to the CB1300S. We had a very
obliging police 'escort', and he took us on a
route which allowed us to really use the
bikes' performance and get the feel of them,
and we both managed to have seven test
rides each! As Abingdon Honda is only half
a mile from open country roads, it was great
to be able to test the bikes properly, without
riding miles through congested roads, as
would be the case at our local Honda dealer.
Many thanks to Abingdon Honda for the
event, and especially Erica from Oxford
Branch for organising it, allowing us to
participate, and for providing her delicious
home-made cake for all of us test riders.
Over the early May Bank Holiday
weekend, Wiltshire Branch held their Spring
rally, and whilst I was not actually attending,
I endeavored to go and join in at least one of
their ride outs. Unfortunately, no-one else
from Bristol was available that weekend to
come along with me, so I went and joined in
the Sunday ride out. About eighteen bikes
had a tour of around 140 miles
through Wiltshire, Dorset and
Hampshire, over an interesting and
scenic route, many roads of which
some of us had never used before.
We took the obligatory tea stops,
and lunch at a very busy Compton
Abbas airfield. An amusing
moment occurred at one point
when another group ride out
(mostly non-Hondas) seemed to
think we were with them! It was
good to go and meet some
members from other branches, and
they were good company to be out
with, even if I was just along for the
ride out for the day. cont....
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:33 Page 43
44 SUMMER 2009
The weather beat us for our May ride
out. About seven of us (plus some pillions)
were looking forward to our ride to the Elan
Valley in Wales, but we decided not to go as
the forecast was pretty dire, continuing the
fairly unpleasant weather from the previous
few days. Mid Wales is not the best place to
go if “prolonged heavy showers” are
forecast! OK, yes, we chickened out, but it
was a long way to go to guarantee getting a
good wetting, but we do intend to go when
the better weather comes, and we may well
have made the trip by the time you read this.
To make up for our postponed ride, J.J.
and I tried organising at short-notice a ride
on the following Sunday, as it was forecast
to be a sunny one. I knew a few were away
over that weekend, but a quick ring-around
could not increase the numbers, so just the
two of us went south for a ride out to
Swanage.
There were huge numbers of bikes out
on the roads, and en route we encountered
what was probably a VMCC ride out,
passing all sorts of old British irons, many of
them leaving the distinctive aroma of
Castrol R in their wake!
We arrived at Swanage around
lunchtime, later than most of the tourists, yet
we had no difficulty parking two bikes. The
town was quite busy, and the beach
crowded, but we hadn't really gone for a dip
in the sea!
A stop for lunch
(fish and chips and
an ice cream, what
else at the seaside?)
a crossing over the
Sandbanks ferry to
Poole, and then
returning via more
or less the same
route for home.
Well, that's just
about all we've got
up to since last
time. We've seen
some new faces
join us this this
year, but it is still
only the same few who turn up. We're not
trying to be too ambitious in what we do,
only scheduling once-a-month Sunday
rides, as unless more turn up on a regular
basis, we can't really plan to do much else.
If any of you out there want to join us on a
ride we have yet to do this year, please do
get in contact with me, as you really will be
welcome to come along. The few rides still
to run this year are listed in this magazine
and on the HOC website. Our monthly
meetings are really just a friendly social
chat, nothing formal at all, and not just about
the HOC! If you have any ideas for
somewhere to go or something to do (most
likely next year now), and you think others
will be interested too, please do get in touch.
Bye for now,
Pete
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:33 Page 44
SUMMER 2009 45
Hello Everyone
So much has happened over the past
few weeks including a change in the
weather which is nice, and it looks like we
might have a summer! Sshh don't tell
anyone!
Since the last time of writing, Cambs
HOC have been on their first break of year.
Ten of us booked to go to Ypres for the
weekend of 24th - 26th April, and so three
bikes left at 2pm to meet up with others
along the route. As many of you know this
start was not a good one. Unfortunately,
Roger and Sue Hutchcraft had an accident
on the A14 which resulted in their lovely
Gold Wing being a write off. Roger suffered
four broken ribs, a punctured lung and a
ruptured spleen whilst Sue sustained
various cuts and bruises and both were very
very badly shaken. Roger was hospitalised
for 13 days and is still recovering, but is now
on the mend. Sue's bruises took a while to
disappear along with the shock of it all, but
it seems now to be OK. We took the
decision to carry on with the trip, but it did
feel weird seeing our friends going one way
in the ambulance and us the other. Jim and
Debra met us at the scene so three couples
again headed off to Folkestone to catch the
shuttle to Calais. The other two bikes were
waiting at Lakeside services, but we had
phoned and told them what had happened;
they actually caught the train after us and
we all finally met up French side at around
6pm French time.
We headed off to Ypres to the Ambrosia
Hotel, a little family run affair which was
lovely. After a quick shower and change it
was into the town, which was about 300
yards away, for a late dinner. It was Paul's
birthday so we had to celebrate with a few
drinks, which no one minded, and then
headed back to the 24 hour shop for drink
supplies which we opened in the reception
of the Hotel for a nightcap.
We had breakfast at 9am and it was
suggested by Debra that we have a walk to
let it digest. This was a very good idea as
during our travels we stumbled across the
Anzac parade. We followed them to the
Menin Gate where the National Anthems
were played and wreaths laid. The Belgian
Pipers played and a lady with an
extraordinary voice sang Abide With Me; it
got a bit teary here. The rest of the day was
spent looking round the Museum which took
a while as a lot happened in Ypres during
WW1. If you have seen the Cathedral in
Ypres you will know that is looks really old
but in fact it was blown up in WW1 and
completely rebuilt, not actually being
finished until the late 60's.
On Sunday morning we departed to the
Cemetery, as Debra had traced a relative
and wanted to visit. It was an emotional
moment and we left Jim and Debra to go in
alone for the initial find. The cemetery was
well kept, as they all are and I always find
them a humbling experience.
We then headed off to the Blockhouse
where they made the V2 Bombers.
Apparently 22,500 were made here and
over half were launched on London! It was a
very imposing building and you could feel
the sombre atmosphere; it chilled you and
was not a nice place.
We left for Calais for a late lunch but
found a lovely restaurant willing to take eight
hungry bikers. The meal was excellent and
it just finished off what turned out to be a
really good trip despite the start. On the
way home we stopped at Thurrock services
for a coffee and said goodbye before we all
went our separate ways home.
CAMBRIDGESecretary: Kim Woodruff - 01353 740883
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:33 Page 45
46 SUMMER 2009
The BMF Show was once again a great
success, and we were very pleased with our
stand. Roger H had arranged for some
artists to come in and paint our back drop
this year and it definitely had a WOW factor
of 100%. I could not get the day off for the
set on Friday 17th this year due to work
commitments, but was kept in touch with
things going on by Roger H who went as
chief cook and bottle washer. The back drop
did prove difficult to get up so that
everything was leveled up and I know that it
was a fractious day. We headed off early on
the Saturday morning and I was well
impressed with what our members had
done the day before. It looked great and the
finishing touches of the hanging baskets
and pots courtesy of Mrs Nina Burgess did
the job. It was busy despite them saying the
attendance was down, and our Marquee
was filled with lots of people showing
interest AND we had 28 new members sign
up. I know Graham Gull was especially
pleased with this.
I did get some funny looks from people
when I went round with the sweetie bucket
asking if anyone wanted sweets but most
took some anyway. Palma Violets were by
far the most popular as they seem to bring
back childhood memories.
The Regalia sold well, turning over just
under £400, which was excellent, and we
raised £333.34 for M.A.G.P.A.S through the
tea, coffee and cakes so thanks everyone
for your generosity. Paul and Fiona White
sold nine books of draw tickets for Riders for
Health with a chance to win a CBR600 so
well done them. If you visited the Marquee
perhaps you could contact us and give your
views on it and let us know what you would
like us to show in future. I would like to thank
Dave and Jackie Harris for the lovely special
cake that they presented us with again this
year. It was covered with an iced copy of a
photograph of the tea stand of last year and
the chocolate cake underneath was quite
delicious! Well I had to try it. Thank you very
much everyone.
We had a ride out to the Norfolk Broads
on Sunday 24th May, Paul and I led this
from Ely Services leaving at 10am. Eight
bikes left for the meander through the
scenic route through Brandon onto Watton
then onto Bramerton where we had lunch
overlooking the river. Stephen and Joyce
joined us in the car so we had thirteen for
lunch, and it was lovely. We did feel sorry for
the waitress who was a little fractious as it
was so busy. I had to sample the Whiskey
infused Bread and Butter Pudding with
cream, and have to report that it was
delicious. We said goodbye to Dave who
was heading home while we headed further
round to Wroxham for another drink by the
river and Ice Cream. It was another lovely
day helped along by the brilliant sun shine
that we had for the whole of the bank
holiday weekend; unusual I know.
By the time you read this we will be back
from our holiday in Normandy. We depart on
Thursday 4th June on the 11pm ferry from
Portsmouth to Caen for the D Day
celebrations. There are sixteen of us going
over and Roger and Sue are coming in their
VITO, so it will be good to have them with us
while still recovering from their accident. We
are so glad they are still able to join us, and
we’re really looking forward to this and we
will be reporting on it in the next issue so
watch this space. Dave Furness is off to
America where he is riding Route 66, and as
he has my mobile number and I am hoping
to hear from him during his travels; have a
safe time Dave. I understand Dave is not the
only one doing this route this year!
May we thank everyone for their good
wishes to Sue and Roger since their
accident and for everyone's support with the
BMF, we couldn't do it without you and we
hope to catch up with many of you again
soon, and look forward to hearing about all
your holidays and trips around too.
Take care and safe riding.
Love
Kim x
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:33 Page 46
SUMMER 2009 47
Honda Test Ride Weekend
20th-21st February
Although both Minions in Derby and
Pidcocks in Long Eaton were approached
regarding the Test Ride Weekend we were
only able to attend Pidcocks due to Minions
not having a very good response and only
having a few people booked in.
Friday 20th was covered by
John Measures and Ken &
Margaret Wells, when they received
a lot of positive interest in the club
from the people that they met
during the day.
Saturday 21st was covered by
Phil Hammond and Steve & myself, where
again we received a lot of interest and had
11 people leave their email addresses for us
to send out more information about the club.
All in all a successful PR weekend for the
club. All we have to do is wait and see if any
were interested enough to come and visit us
at the Royal.
Thanks to everyone who gave up their
time to help.
Al’s Mystery Pub Ride Out – 29th March
A good start to the first Pub Ride Out of
the year, 9 bikes gathered outside the Royal
Hotel waiting to see where the ride would
take us on one of Al’s Magical Mystery
Tours.
True to form the route found us winding
our way around the Leicestershire
countryside with the occasional foray into
South Derbyshire. We passed many road
signs pointing to familiar place names such
as Shepshed, Copt Oak, Quorn &
Markfield, finally ending up at the Griffin Inn
at Swithland where we met up with Ken &
Margaret.
Ironbridge - 5th April
Another bright sunny morning saw 10
bikes starting off from the Royal Hotel and
heading off through some winding country
roads, there was an 11th bike joined us a
short way into the ride.
The 11th bike was a potential new
member who had said that he might turn up
for the ride, weather and wife permitting, but
he had been delayed by a dodgy wing
mirror.
Unknown to Steve and I, an incident
occurred at the rear of the party which
meant that we were 2 bikes short – Walter,
a friend of one of our members,
had missed the bike sat
marking the junction and gone
straight on leaving John
Measures (or Shep as he’s
now known) to chase after and
retrieve him.
cont....
Secretary: Steve Pugh – 01332 515767EAST MIDLANDS
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:33 Page 47
48 SUMMER 2009
We had a stop for an hour or so at
Amerton Farm and Craft Centre where
we were all re-united for a well deserved
cuppa and cake (or in one person’s case
a full breakfast). There was time to
wander round the garden centre, take in
the pottery, glass making or jewellery
shops and of course the ever welcome
ice cream shop.
Fed and watered we all set off again
along our designated route, until one
minor glitch when we were nearing
Eccleshall, previously when we were
planning the route there had been a
diversion in place at the roundabout before
Eccleshall with a
notice saying that
it would be there
until May 2009,
when we got
there this time the
diversion had
been removed so
we followed the
correct route into
the village.
Approaching the
cross roads from
a different angle
caused a slight
delay while we re-orientated our selves and
worked out the correct turning to take (the
sign post was of no help at all as it didn’t
mention the road number or our next
reference point).
The remainder of the ride passed
without incident and we all arrived in
Ironbridge. Parking was a bit of a
squeeze as there seemed to be a lot
of other bikers having the same idea
for an afternoon out and all of the free
bike parking had been taken, but
eventually we all managed to wedge
the bikes into the designated
motorbike parking space in one of the
car parks.
After a wander along the river, around
the shops and over the bridge, it was time
for another cuppa and the usual photo
opportunities.
Back at the bikes, there was the usual
donning of various bits of aparel and then
we all set off for home in a more direct
manner, peeling off along the way as we got
closer to home.
Thanks to every one who turned out for
the ride, it made it all worth while.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:33 Page 48
SUMMER 2009 49
Dave Sansome’s Memorial Run
18th April
It was nice to remember an old buddy
who was sadly taken away from us last year.
The best way of doing was to do what he
loved, riding bikes. A ride out was planned
and the weather was excellent. Thanks
Dave for organising that!! 24 bikes and 28
bikers left the Six Hills Hotel, lead by
Captain with Lynn as pillion, riding over to
Melton Mowbray where we stopped for
coffee at Len Manchester Motorcycles.
From there, we rode Dave’s favourite route
The Langtons. Dave and I rode this road
regularly and I will always remember the
smile that was beaming all over his face
every time we got to the other side and he
took his helmet off.
We were joined on the Ride by Andrew,
the Landlord of the Coach & Horses,
Kibworth. We stopped at his pub and a
hearty lunch was had by all.
From there, we rode by Gartree Prison,
up to Husbands Bosworth and then to
Wigston Cemetery. Jay from the Christian
Motorcycle Association said a short prayer
and this gave us time to remember Dave.
Now, Dave did have his little ways and you
were right as long as your opinion was the
same as Dave, otherwise you were wrong.
You never needed a map when you rode
with Dave as he had an inbuilt SatNav. If the
chips were down and you rang Dave for
help, you knew that even before the phone
went down, he was in his car to come over
to you. He was a diamond geezer and we
will always remember him.
The nice thing about the ride out was
that there were a number of bikers there that
didn’t even know Dave. It didn’t matter...he
was a fellow biker and a friend that they did
not have the opportunity to meet. We were
blessed with that privilege.
God Bless
you Dave and
just remember,
let the Almighty
be right once in
a while.
Thanks to John Measures for the write
up about the Memorial Ride Out.
That’s All For Now Folks
Rita
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:33 Page 49
50 SUMMER 2009
The Eastern Branch has made a very
promising start to 2009. We have a few new
or potential new members turning up at
meetings. The club adverts in Motorcycle
News have helped with this.
On a fine Saturday 7th March Martin,
Lorrie, Graham, Paul, Phil and me met up
at the Caenby Corner Café for our
afternoon run; travelling from Market Rasen
on the B roads via Wragby, Bardney,
Metheringham and Sleaford to Grantham
Honda.
The following day was cold & wet and
found Lorrie, Martin & I looking around the
Newark Auto-jumble. There were good buys
to be had, especially someone looking for a
bike to restore or for a get to work hack.
Fortunately we had excellent weather
the following Sunday for the 3-Shires
Sheffield Easter egg run. The turn out was
truly massive. For me, Lorrie & Martin a
memorable event to take part in, with the
police blocking junctions allowing the run to
pass through the red lights and the police
helicopter swooping overhead. The event
had very positive coverage on the local T.V.
networks. Well done Three-Shire
branch for an excellent
event.
Secretary: John Hewson - 01469 560306EASTERN
Graham, Martin & Phil at Grantham Honda
James Toseland signs autographs
Fancy dress was fortunately not
compulsory for the egg run
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:33 Page 50
SUMMER 2009 51
On the 21st March Martin & I had a run
to the Yorkshire Dales. We set off from
Barney’s Café and road over the Humber
Bridge before taking the B-roads from
Beverly, Malton and over Sutton Bank to
Thirsk. At Masham we headed south for
Lofthouse via Leighton Reservoir, stopping
for lunch at the Howe Stean Gorge Café.
Unfortunately the road from Pateley Bridge
to Grassington was closed at Greenhow Hill.
This meant a diversion down to the A59. We
refuelled at Settle and headed north up the
B6479, stopping for a coffee at the
Ribblehead Viaduct. We followed the road
down the picturesque Dentdale to Sedbergh
and turned east on the A684 to Hawes,
Leyburn and Northallerton before turning
south and heading home via Thirsk and
York, a good run with little traffic on the
roads and bright dry weather.
We had a fine if windy day for our
run to the last Sand race of the
season at Mablethorpe on Sunday
29th March. Unfortunately the
races didn’t get started until late
due to the on shore wind keeping
the water level up and that was
despite changing the track
orienation. The racing was
enjoyable to watch and it was good
to see the level of support shown
by the number of spectators
gathered on the sea wall.
cont....
Ribblehead Viaduct
Spectators at the sand races
Martin, Lorrie, Graham, Paul & Phil at the
Caenby Corner Café for the sand race
Sand racing
Paul (above)
Phil (left)
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:34 Page 51
52 SUMMER 2009
The weather gods smiled again on Ray,
Phil, Martin, Lorrie, Paul, Ann, Andy and I for
our run to the highest pub in England at Tan
Hill for lunch on 5th April. We covered about
250 miles by the time we got back to our
start point of Barney’s café just south of the
Humber Bridge; enjoying some of the best
roads the Yorkshire Dales have to offer.
On Good Friday, Martin, Lorrie and I met
at the assembly point for the Scunthorpe
Bikers egg run. Unfortunately I had to leave
just after the start due to an electrical fault
on my BMW. Yes, the Michael has been
taken at every opportunity.
On Sunday 26th April Lorrie & Martin
called in on me on their way to meeting up
with Phil, Paul and Ray for our run to the
Stafford Classic Bike Show. I didn’t get very
far, about 5 miles in fact, before re-
occurrence of the electrical fault forced me
to return home and complete the journey in
the car.
The Classic Bike Show
was very well attended and
this year proved to be very
popular with continental
visitors, probably aided by
the favourable exchange
rate.
On the 3rd May Martin &
Lorrie had a run down to the
Japanese Motorcycle show
held at Donington Park.
Martin, Lorrie, Phil and me made
our annual trip down to the BMF show
at Peterborough. I was disappointed
there was no discount for members on the
gate and even more so when I found the
only manufacturer with a display was
Triumph. Martin, Lorrie and Phil all found
bargains on the stalls, more than saving
their entrance price.
Martin, Andy, John, Ann, Phil, Ray
Paul & Ann on their Pan
Paul & Ann on their Pan
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:34 Page 52
SUMMER 2009 53
I just couldn’t help but feel I had
some how materialised at the Tailend
rather and the BMF show. The Honda
Owners Club stand was magnificent. If
it didn’t win best stand I don’t know why
not.
I saw nothing to compete with it.
Any branch is only as active as its
members. If you want to have your voice
heard and make suggestions for activities
please attend the meetings. If you have
difficulty attending meetings contact me via
email from the Eastern Branch website or
on the above telephone number.
The most important thing is to get out
and ride no matter on what and who ever
you choose to do it with.
Cheers
John
Lorrie, Martin & Phil
at HOC tentInside the HOC tent
Ray, Phil, Phil’s mate, Paul,
John, Lorrie, Martin
Branch Secretaries:
The deadline for the next Golden Wing is;
1s1st Sept Septtember 2009ember 2009
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 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:34 Page 53
54 SUMMER 2009
LAKES & COASTSecretary: Mike Bell - 07738 830917
Already the months are flying by, and
soon the nights will be getting longer, where
has the summer gone?
Still, lots to plan for in the future. For the
last week-end of July, we have booked the
RAF Red Arrows to perform overhead for
our HOG Roast event, yes, we have, and
we shall prove it by sending in the photos for
the autumn issue. We will also have a
recently restored XH558 Vulcan Bomber
which will fly over Windermere on Saturday
afternoon
On both days we will see a display by
the BBMF (Battle of Britain Memorial Flight)
Spitfire, Hurricane & Dakota. In addition to
these highlights, there will be some stunning
aerobatic displays from the Yakovlevs and
the Pitts12 pilots. Also not to miss is the
daring and beautiful wing-walkers from
Team Guinot who display not only beauty
but courage on top, or hanging beneath,
their Stearman Biplanes. The old favourites
will also be back including the privately
owned Jet Provost, the RAF Hawk and the
Chinook helicopter.
Now what other Branch event can boast
all that?!
Let us know, and join in all the fun
We continue to get out and about in this
The Most Beautiful Corner of England, and I
make no apologies that everything is very
last minute, but with the weather pattern
being as it is, long term planning is difficult,
especially when we are a “designation”
branch. One of us is out most week-ends,
email us for details.
On the 25th of May, many of us took the
opportunity to go to the official opening of
Lloyd Honda at their new Carlisle
showroom. It was a great day, and there
was even the Honda Demonstrator unit in
attendance. There were demo and test
rides, which many enjoyed and a great hog
roast was provided free of charge by Antony
and his team. There were loads of soft and
hot drinks available too. Paula, having
bought a new Arai helmet a few weeks
earlier took the opportunity of making it fit
her head, without all the problems she was
having getting it off. Well done to Arai
technicians who made it fit her.
We had a super Burger in a Bun Run, in
mid June, when the idea was to ride to
B o w n e s s - o n -
Windermere, for
what became a
great evening
while watching
the sun set on
the Lakeland
Hills, and Lake
W i n d e r m e r e
simmered in the
evening natural
light. Did you join
in? but did you
email us first?
Lloyd Honda Opening Day
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:34 Page 54
SUMMER 2009 55
Sunday 13th September will see us
joining in with another local bike club for a
charity run for the Great North Air
Ambulance Service, (GNAAS), which
operates from its new base just outside
Penrith.
We will be out again into the English
Lake District, The Scottish Borders and the
Yorkshire Dales. These are our usual
playgrounds when they are not shrouded in
mist and clouds, the roads wet with stones
and puddles, and as for the potholes! But
still the roads are fantastic, and the views
amongst the best in the UK. If you don’t
believe me, come and have a look, and I will
prove it! Devil’s Bridge at Kirkby Lonsdale is
another popular meeting place, together
with Hawes, Middleton Teesside, Hartside
and Glasson Dock and we hope to get over
to Squires Café again, and up to Tan Hill.
Come and join us, send me an email, at
[email protected] and lets meet up in
2009. We are a large geographically area,
but what fun we have in that area. It is not
just for the tourists; we can and do enjoy
ourselves!
Meet soon
Peter & Mike
Paula with the helmets
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:34 Page 55
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:35 Page 56
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:35 Page 61
MANCHESTERSecretary: Stephen Davenport - 07968 810435
Our year is going well, we are getting
plenty of interest in our club via dealers, the
internet and so far 7 from MCN. This has
meant plenty of new faces. Our meetings
are still pulling an average of 15 people and
our ride out’s more so.
We have found the only
down side, if you can call it
that, is our ride out’s are
proving to be a bit too popular. Gary our
rides coordinator now has his work cut out
looking into how we make our rides
manageable.
We have had 7 ride outs and 1
weekend away to Tintern Abbey, all
have been a success, even the
British weather seems to have been
kind to us so far. We have had an
average of 10 bikes per run and
some pillions have braved it as well.
The calendar is all set for the rest of
the year, with the exception of a
destination and meeting point for the
Sunday Dinner run, this is to be announced.
I may look to head south this year in the
hope of meeting other clubs, or we might
just invite you to come to us
Our trip to Montigny-le-Bretonneux in
France is now organised. We have been
invited, by a French bike club, to join in their
towns celebration of their link’s to other
towns in Europe. There are 9 of us
representing Manchester and we will be
staying with various families in the town.
The only board required is a small gift of
something typically English costing around
£5.00, a bargain. Just don’t know whether
the fish & chips I am picking up in Dover will
last. There are two other
clubs from Europe
joining us and they are
from Marostica in Italy
and Kierspe in Germany.
We have been sent
pictures from the
German club so we will
be able to recognise
them when we get there,
though I thought the
brown leathers that
German bikers allegedly
wear would be the give
away. Lionel, our main
host has a full list of events for us over the
three day’s we are there including a visit to
the palace at Versailles.
62 SUMMER 2009
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:35 Page 62
The whole town is getting really excited
about all the festivities and it’s all backed by
the local mayor. In France I believe there is
not much of a bigger endorsement. I will
organise a full article for the Golden Wing
which should be in time for the Christmas
edition.
After this we still have a full ride calendar
and a weekend coast to coast run in
September. Still if the summer is as good as
we hope we will have plenty of extra day’s to
ride bikes.
Only a short article this time I’m afraid as
I forgot about the Deadline, sorry. Till the
next edition, all the best for a good summer
to all branches from Manchester.
Steve
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:35 Page 63
64 SUMMER 2009
Secretary: Karen Angela - 01624 629299MANX OFFSHORE
At the risk of sounding repetitive, I can’t
think of anywhere better in this universe
right now where I would want to be other
than right here in paradise! Glorious
weather and even more glorious racing
classic bikes down at Castletown on the
Billown circuit during the day and practice
on the TT mountain course tonight.
The only downside, and there has to be
one or you might forget to appreciate the
good things, are those pesky little midges.
Still, I’ll be safe tonight plastered in oil of
citronella, the smell is a bit pungent but it
works.
I now have proof positive that John is a
party animal, albeit part of a stretcher party
but it’s a start!.
This all began on Saturday night, the
first practice session for the TT. An
American rider, Scott Jensen, failed to make
the right hand bend through Union Mills
where we marshal and hit a Manx stone
gatepost head on! Fortunately, he was not
seriously hurt and after a check up by the
doctor on duty with us, he was stretchered
off to the ambulance and rushed to Nobles
hospital. Released on Sunday, he was back
out on the Course tonight, Monday, for more
practice. These racers must be made of
rubber.
Highlight of the Saturday night practice
was a visit by Shaun Harris, a well known
racer who had a very serious accident at
Union Mills in 2007. After spending around 8
months in Hospital before being sent home
to New Zealand, he has only just reached
the point of being able to work again.
He is on the Island again going round
thanking all the people who helped him and
has signed on as a marshal to help out.
It must have been a shock to him seeing
Scott hit the wall, as he is a friend of his, and
it must have stirred a lot of painful memories
because this was where he came off
himself. That was why he was there in the
first place, to meet the marshals who picked
him up.
He must be OK though because when
we talked to him he said he was thinking
about trying sidecar racing, and they said he
didn’t have brain damage any more!
The last three months have all been a bit
of a blur of DIY jobs for us, but we have
finally got the top floor shower installed and
the room tiled. If you want some tiling doing
I’m your girl, but I don’t come cheap! Every
where else has been cleaned up and / or
repainted and I think we are now ready!!
During April I finally managed to get the
bike out and test ride the new heated
gloves, they work, thank god, so I can now
ride again, although as we are now in June
and the weather is hot I don’t need them,
hey ho!
Once TT is over I’m going across to the
adjacent Island, where you live, to visit
family and friends and attend the christening
of the new grandson, well nine months old
now.
Whilst I’m over I’ll be attending
Donnington for the WSB races to marshal
for them, well it gets me in for free, although
I do have to work hard as I found out last
year at the Moto GP. John can only come
over for a long weekend for the christening
so will have to miss out on the fun, still, he
will be able to play with the bikes at home
for a while on his own.
We were thinking about coming to the
National Rally again this year but
unfortunately wont be able to make it, as for
John’s 60th birthday I’m treating him by
having most of the sash windows refurbed!
He’s really looking forward to it, it’ll be
warmer this winter, only two jumpers and a
fleece! This also means we wont be getting
married this year as this is the wedding fund
spent yet again.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:36 Page 64
SUMMER 2009 65
No pictures to send again this month but
we are trying to get some racing shots of our
new branch member, Jim, on his VFR400
racer up at Jurby road circuit to send,
maybe a front cover shot if there any good
enough, will try for next Golden Wing.
Meanwhile, we have got his partner, Mary
hooked on marshalling. My finger, by the
way, is still hovering over the keyboard
(John types all this) but I will try, I promise,
to send an E-mail myself soon.
Apologies if this is a little brief compared
to normal, but we are in the middle of
practice week as I write so hopefully a full
TT report and more local news next time.
This is MOB signing off,
Be safe, be happy.
Karen & John
Do you provideproducts
or services for bikers?
Have you thoughtabout an advert in
Golden Wing?
For details of alladvertising options andcosts, please contact
Erica Gassor [email protected]
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:36 Page 65
66 SUMMER 2009
Contact: Julian Richards - 07717 306 201NORFOLK
Like many branches we seemto have a magical diary list, themore we do, the longer it gets, butthat can only be a good thing.Many members, me included,work shifts, therefore cannot andare not expected to attend allevents and meetings but withsuggestions coming thick and fastthere should be something foreveryone.
Since my last report we haveindeed visited QuidenhamHospice to see their fantastic work, we hada good informative tour around and decidedthat this was definitely a great place tosupport, we have also helped with their“Ride for Life” but more of that later.
Geoff led ten of us on a ride-out toWalton-on-the-Naze, on Sunday 26th ofApril, leaving the Apollo, Harleston at10:30am threading the route through somelovely Suffolk and Essex countryside andvillages.
We met the usual motorists who turnedwithout indicating but arrived safely atWalton just after midday then had the usualcoffee and loo stop. Splitting up some of thegroup found something to eat while othersenjoyed a stroll along the pier and the restjust sat and chilled out watching the worldgo by.
All too soon it was time to meet up andenjoy a nice relaxed return home ride, whichwe did, thanking Geoff forhis efforts.
O nWednesday 6th of May
was the branch ride to watchspeedway at Kings Lynn, I metRoy and Lesley on the outskirts ofNorwich and we enjoyed the fortyodd mile ride along the A47
without too much traffic. Once parked andinside we met Dave and Sue on corner no.3and settled down to watch the parade ofriders and then the racing. A depletedBirmingham side put in maximum effort andwe saw quite a few exciting and close races,the final score of Kings Lynn 63 toBirmingham’s 30 didn’t really reflect thenight’s racing.
Meeting at the Apollo
Walking along the pier.
Ready to start for home.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:36 Page 66
SUMMER 2009 67
It has been some time since I went tospeedway and forgot just how much Ienjoyed it but would thoroughly recommendit, so go along and support your local team.The return journey from Kings Lynn toNorwich in darkness was with quite ablustery cross-wind but we made it safely toour homes. We have two moredates for the speedway in our diary,one at Ipswich and the other atMildenhall.
On Sunday 17th of May thevolunteers for the E.A.C.H. “Ridefor Life” on behalf of QuidenhamHospice were all up very early aswe had to meet by the HQ tent inSanton Downham near Thetford at7:00am for a briefing. For thosewho do not know, Thetford forest isthe largest lowland forest in Britain,I’ve been lucky enough to havevisited many times and always rememberthe heady scent of fresh pine on a zephyr ofa breeze, the springy feel of walking on athree-inch deep carpet of pine needles, thetrees majestically reaching for an azure bluesky and the sunbeams cascading down
through the canopy of leaves. And today itwas a memory as the waves of wind lashedthe cold rain across our faces again andagain, but heh, we’re British and this isnearly summer so what the heck!! Briefingcompleted we set to work erecting gazebos,furnishing them with tables and chairs,
assisting with moving boxes, plants, and allthe things which you know only to well whensetting anything up.
We then turned to carpark duties andmarshalling the entrants. Around 1200
participants hadpaid their entryfee for theirchoice of variouson and off-roadcycle rides andtwo walks ofd i f f e r e n tdistances, all setoff with greatenthusiasm inteams of friends,families, ororgan isa t ions ,the age andcondition of thebicycles wasreflected in thatof their owners,but all had as t e e l ydetermination.
cont....Rob, Dave, Sue, Jessica, Lesley & Roy
Branch members at the briefing
Another group starts.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:36 Page 67
68 SUMMER 2009
We also set off with enthusiasm as ateam for the barbecue which we helped sellout during the afternoon, we didn’t get amedal for that though! Sue walked aroundand around the green selling raffle tickets toboost the funds a little more. In no time at allthe first of the road racers had returned andwe were pressed into service presentingmedals to all the mud-covered finishers, thetriumphant look on their faces of young andold was a story in itself and gave us a verysatisfying feeling of a job well done.
This fundraising event is the largest onthe E.A.C.H. calendar, last year raisedsome £60,000 towards the annual£5,000,000 they need. Even the sun madean appearance when the Morris dancersstarted entertaining all of us on the villagegreen. Our work done we squelched ourway back to our vehicles and made our wayhome. Dave sent a group photo to Jessica,one of the helpers and fundraisers atQuidenham and received a very nice letterby return thanking us for all our efforts.
The branch badge competition has beencompleted and the winner chosen, I am atthe moment looking for someone to helpwith the artwork so we can then send it tovarious companies to manufacture badges,
patches, and clothing for us. The subject ofthe badge is a secret and we will unveil it tothe world once everything has been sorted.
The next ride out is on May 31st which,as I write this is in the future, following thatwe have a day out at Snetterton on 7th Junewatching club racing with the BMCRC.
A little more in the future is yet another“diary lengthener” the “East CoastChallenge” where groups can ride approxtwo-hundred miles around Norfolk andSuffolk for charity visiting places which
begin with the letter “S” viz,Sheringham, Swaffham, Stalham,Southwold, and Stowmarket. Weare meeting at the café in thesquare in Swaffham on July 12th,more details can be found at:www.eastcoastchallenge.co.uk
That’s about it really for thisreport, of course we are stillweaving in our meetings at theApollo Harleston on the secondThursday of the month with all theabove, so if you’re in the area,please come along.
Safe riding to you all, I’d bettergo now to see if I’m needed to addanything else to the diary!
RobRide for Life medal
Are you selling your bike?
Want to get rid of some kit?
Too many spares cluttering
the garage?
Members can advertise in the
Free Ads section of Golden
Wing simply be emailing the
Editor on [email protected]
or writing to the address on
page 2
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:36 Page 68
SUMMER 2009 69
NORTHUMBRIASecretary: Graeme Burrough - 07050 158 381
HARTZ MOUNTAINS TOUR
(FORMER EAST GERMANY)
Saturday 23rd May
We set off lunch time heading for Hull
ferry port picking up on the way and
eventually twelve bikes 18 people arrived to
book in. Because Graeme Burrough is so
well organised and had all registration
details booking references and names all
listed on one sheet booking in was a doddle.
After tying the bikes down and making
sure everyone was happy their bike was
going to stay shining side up we all made
our way to the cabins to shower, change and
get ready for the start of our holiday.
Sunday 24th May
A good meal and few drinks and a
reasonable night’s sleep (who can sleep on
a boat?)
We docked at Rotterdam Euro Port and
emerged from the boat to a beautiful sunny
day. After all getting through customs etc
and taking liners out of jackets and changing
to summer gloves etc. we set off to do 370
miles to our hotel for the next six nights.
Everything went quite well only two minor
slip ups, Mattie decided he wasn’t quite
ready for a stop and went past the marker
for the services but we all knew he would be
waiting at the next services for us. Sure
enough there they were Mattie and Paula,
ice lolly in hand and grinning at the next
services, yes we believe you when you said
you weren’t quite ready for a stop and
wanted to go further on!!
Only other minor problem was after
leaving the services after being suitably
refreshed Graeme’s Sat Nav decided not to
even turn on. Luckily Ian has the same one
and had all the routes so a quick swap
meant we were soon on our way again
except Ian has an external aerial on his and
there’s only so many times you can listen to
“lost satellite reception”! So at next stop the
aerial was put onto Graeme’s bike too.
We arrived in Bad Harzburg and found
the first hotel for George and Tim quite
easily (they do work well sometimes these
Sat Navs) arrangements were made to meet
up later and we found the other hotel just as
easily all arriving suitably tired, hot and
ready for a cold beer. Rooms were
allocated, bikes unpacked and
arrangements made for a time to meet later.
A good meal and few (yes only a few)
beers later everyone was suitably refreshed
and ready to start our adventures.
Monday 25th May
Breakfast was arranged for 8.00-8.30am
and a very good breakfast it was too, lots of
choice of teas for anyone interested, hot
coffee, cold meats, cheese, eggs, bread and
home made jams. After everyone had been
satisfied we met at the bikes to another
beautiful sunny day and all 16 of us set off to
meet George and Tim at the other hotel to
find they have been served Bacon and
Eggs!
Because of the long day yesterday it had
been arranged that a short but interesting
day would be put together. So after
refuelling we left Bad Harzburg (what did I
say earlier about Sat Nav’s working ) only to
find that the sat nav wanted to take us back
to the hotel! After a couple of U turns, which
can be fun with twelve bikes! We pulled into
the side of the road to reset the sat nav and
try to find the way when all of a sudden a car
pulled up and a man was asking if we were
looking for the Autoban. After numerous
times of Graeme trying to pronounce the
place we were looking for to no avail the
man got out looked at the sat nav went to try
and direct us. Then with a lot of pointing and
waving of the arms jumped in his car and we
all followed.
cont...
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:36 Page 69
70 SUMMER 2009
He actually took us up onto the dual
carriage way and travelled quite a few miles
out of his way to put us on the right road and
all we could do was all wave our thanks as
we went past. These trips always seem to
show us all that there are still some nice
people in this world.
Now on our way we found Weinigroder
and after checking with a taxi driver found a
free parking place for all the bikes. As
planned we found the train station and
bought our tickets for the 1936 steam train
to take us up the mountain!
An interesting trip up the mountain to
Brocken taking 2 hours and lots of photo
opportunities, Graeme being told off for
hanging off the foot plate, there’s always
one trying to get you into trouble! We arrived
at the top to thousands of midges but
fantastic views and opportunity to sample
the German Sausage which most of us took
advantage of, with a couple of us even
having sausage soup which apparently was
very good even when flavoured with a few
midges. The journey down in the train was
just as good as on the way up even though
it was packed and we all had to stand most
of the way out on the footplates. This is true
East German territory, as was!
Back to the bikes and Ian and George
decided that they were ready to return to the
hotel so made their own way back the rest of
us went off the explore the National Park
and the interesting roads. After a few twists,
turns, bends and even a couple of hairpins
Graeme and I stopped to let everyone
regroup, Mattie was the first to pull up
behind us and was heard to shout “Graeme
I “*!!@@ ing love you!! We took it that he
had enjoyed riding the roads!
After showering and meeting up in the
garden of the hotel to have a couple of
beers before leaving it was discovered that
it was in fact Sue’s birthday, she kept that
one quiet so everyone decided a Chinese
would be a good celebration so off we set.
Lovely meals were eaten and a happy
birthday sung and even
whiskeys passed around by
the owner to toast Sue on her
birthday.
Tuesday 26th May
After another good
breakfast we set off collecting
Tim only as George had
decided not to join us today, a
fall earlier in the month had left
him with a very painful knee
and as today was a longer day
he had decided to give it a
miss.
The plan was to visit
Colditz Castle and was to be a long day
(turned out to be much longer for some than
others!). It was another very hot day but it
was also very humid and along the way we
encountered a couple of thunderstorms but
not really getting that wet.
Part of the route was to go through
Quedlingburg which has a very nice
Cathedral, but on entering the town it was
found to be having major roadworks carried
out and we ended up in the middle of the
town with no visible way out.
Graeme went off to find someone for
help and came back with a town map with a
route out drawn on it, so map in my hands
behind Graeme we set off with me telling
him which way to go until the sat nav could
pick it up without roadworks blocking the
road. Why do they close roads and don’t
give you an alternative route????
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SUMMER 2009 71
We eventually arrived at
Colditz much later than
planned and very hot. Few of
us changed into jeans and
shoes etc. and everyone
tried to put as much of their
kit as they could in the bikes.
After a climb up steps and
banks we arrived at the
entrance of the Castle to be
a little disappointed that they
had painted and rendered it all white so it
didn’t quite look the way we were all
expecting.
Ice creams were the call of the day, after
all getting what we wanted we all decided
after coming all this way, a tour was
definitely the way to go so purchased our
tickets and found out the time of the next
tour and then all visited the museum which
was very interesting. We were called
together a little earlier than first told which
was good and the poor lady tour guide was
confronted with Jim - pants down in his
boxers cooling his bits in the archway where
the cool breeze was blowing so she soon
realised what kind of crowd she was dealing
with. It was a very good tour giving us all a
lot of information we didn’t know and a lot of
funny stories about attempted escapes etc.
also demonstrated the difficult times too,
showing us a tunnel that took 9 months to
make and was only a short way of being
finished when it was discovered.
The tour ended and we made our way
back to the town for refreshments,
sandwiches, cakes coffees etc., Poor
Lindsay was ill with a
migraine and needed to get
back to the hotel and we
were supposed to be
meeting George for a meal.
So Graeme and I, Lindsay
and Paul, Ian, Tim and
Ritchie set off the and rest
decided to stay and have a
meal in Colditz village. John
was confident him and his
sat nav could get them back to the hotel.
At the petrol stop Lindsay was still very
poorly so Paul wanted to take it slowly and
also had sat nav to find his way back. Tim
was staying with him and that’s were things
went wrong, to put it mildly.
Graeme myself and Ian set off back for
the hotel thinking Ritchie was staying with
Paul and Tim but no he had set off after us
and when we left the motorway to change to
another, no-one marked the turn and he
went on ahead.
We knew nothing of this until after a very
quick shower and change and a quick call to
George we were sitting in the restaurant
when a telephone call came through from
Ritchie to say he was lost!
The problem was he didn’t know where
he was, so Graeme told him to find out
where he was and call back. A call to Paul
to watch out for Ritchie was also made.
To cut a long story short, Ritchie was
sent up and down the same motorway by
numerous nice? people. With
Paul chasing around the
countryside trying to find him.
Eventually Paul found John
etc. who then called Ritchie
again to be told he was in a
motorway services and after
getting the post code and
putting it in the sat nav, all was
sorted. Yet again the sat nav
came good, and he was found.
However, it was 12.45 in
morning before they all arrived
back at the hotel, and all in all Paul
managed to do 500 miles or thereabouts in
one day!
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:36 Page 71
72 SUMMER 2009
Wednesday 27th May
A quiet day was obviously in order after
yesterday so after breakfast it was decided
to have a walk into town and have a trip on
the cable car. Tickets were kindly given to
us free of charge by the Hotel.
Couple of us girls had to buy flat shoes,
any excuse I know but they were necessary
for the walk!
The trip up the cable car was very good
and there we were around the obelisk
shouting to each other “you can see our
house from up here”!
A few of us decided to have a run out on
the bikes in the afternoon and the rest
decided to have a quiet day around town.
So off we went 5 bikes to have a run in
the mountains, we visited two of the local
dams and while at the second Graeme went
off to ask a local paramedics team if Paul
who works for the ambulance service in the
UK could look at the ambulance, so there
are a crowd of bikers looking into an
ambulance and Paul was having a lovely
time!. Busman’s holiday or what?
Off we went again on our travels and
stopped at the picturesque town Goslar so
typically German it was a delight
Thursday 28th May
After breakfast we set off for Belsen
Bergen and on the way stopped off at
another lovely town Celle most of the bikes
got parked in the street in allocated bays but
three or four parked on the street opposite,
a man came out of the casino and informed
us by of course the normal sign language
that it was not a good idea to park there and
there could be a fine, so back on the bikes
and moved to safer parking.
We arrived at Belsen Bergen where
there is a very large area which was of
course the concentration camp but there is
also a very large exhibition/museum which
was so very informative and at times a little
distressing. Obviously the sight of all the
mass graves giving the quantity of bodies
buried in them was also very distressing but
a reality of the bad times of 1939-45.
We left Belsen feeling very humble and
thoughtful and a stop at Celle for
lunch/afternoon tea brightened us up once
again.
Friday 29th May
Because we would be having a long
journey back to the ferry it was decided that
a reasonably quiet day was in order.
So off we set to visit Mittlebau Dora
where the V2 rocket was developed and of
course another concentration camp. On the
way a few nice roads were used giving all
the lads the chance to enjoy their bikes on
the way.
Upon turning one bend we found a
police officer in the road telling us to pull into
a car park, obviously we all parked up. We
got off our bikes and they were surprised to
find twelve British bikes facing them, they
were pulling in bikes to have a chat about
safety etc and were happy to tell us we
hadn’t been speeding (phew!!) and were of
course we were all wearing the correct gear.
After a couple of photos with a couple of
the officers we were on our way again.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:36 Page 72
SUMMER 2009 73
Unless you did research as Graeme
obviously had you would never find
Mittelbau Dora, tucked away at the back of
the town. Another interesting and very
distressing place to visit but it should never
be forgotten what happened to these people
and the sacrifices that were made for us to
be living in the way we are used to today.
Another trip through the National Park at
the way home to enjoy the local roads but
after being warned by the owners of the
hotel we stuck very rigidly to the speed
limits. We even got stopped by the old
“East” German police and what for? For
riding so well and to compliment the fact we
were all riding with the correct kit on!! (see
photo).
We did of course still enjoy the roads
and the fantastic scenery stopping off on the
way for a coffee stop – these are essential
to catch up with everyone and make sure all
are enjoying themselves.
Saturday 30th May
After having an early breakfast which the
hotel kindly arranged for us and all packed
up we set of for the journey back to the
Ferry port. We arrived at the ferry port in
plenty of time and booked in with no
problems.
Sunday saw another lovely day to finish
off our journey a good time had by all.
Joyce WearnHOC Northumbria
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:36 Page 73
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:37 Page 74
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:37 Page 75
76 SUMMER 2009
Hi All, we have had some eventful
months of late.
On Wednesday 4th March we had a
presentation by Mark Talbot from WNAA
(Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air
Ambulance). A packed bar enjoyed a very
interesting and informative evening and we
learnt that despite costing
over £2,000,000 a year to
run, the WNAA receive no
Lottery or Government
funding. We, as a branch,
have raised just under
£26,000 which in theory
means we have saved six
lives. Incidentally the majority
of all call outs are not Road
Traffic Accidents but Horse
Riders!
The following week we
had another guest in the
guise of John Measures who
treated us to a very
interesting and thought
provoking evening.
Our AGM was held on Wednesday April
8th, and the Committee remains the same
with Stritchy as Chairman, Sue Beck (me)
as Secretary and John Childs as Treasurer.
The following week saw the 1st EOR of
the year led by Stritchy and ending up as
usual at Stibbington Diner. Twenty three
bikes including three new comers enjoyed a
gentle bimble about before consuming a not
very healthy but delicious Mega Breakfast.
One of our new members Andrew coped
really well on his CBF125 considering he
had only been passed his CBT 2 weeks
earlier.
Our 2nd EOR on 29th April led by Dan
was a mixture of small twisty country roads
and a few slightly bigger faster roads,
finishing this time in Spratton. Again twenty
three bikes, thirty one people and this time
five new comers.
On Saturday May 9th, a bright but
slightly windy day saw a few of us enjoy a
ride to the Heart of England Bike Show at
Gaydon for quite an enjoyable day.
On Wednesday 13th May the 3rd EOR
led by Shaz was
attended by twenty one
bikes and two new
comers. On the 27th
May John led the next
EOR, despite the
weather being
somewhat dodgy ten
bikes enjoyed the ride
out.
Now something
special happened on
May 30th.....STRITCHY
and RUTH GOT
MARRIED. What a
fantastic day, the
weather was perfect and
Ruth looked gorgeous,
Stritchy scrubbed up pretty well too.
We still have plenty in the diary for the
coming months including the HOC Roast on
Sunday 26th July. Have a look in the diary
pages or on the website for more details.
On a downside, we have had 2 bike
thefts within the branch this year. Scott had
his Blackbird stolen from outside his house,
and it is still not recovered, and Jason had
his CBR1000 also stolen from outside his
house, he has been lucky enough to have it
returned with only minimal damage.
Here's hoping for a fantastic summer of
riding, especially if this good weather holds
out
Ride Safe
Sue
NORTHANTS & M.KSecretary: Sue Beck - 07863 599992
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:37 Page 76
SUMMER 2009 77
We are a very fortunate group here in
North London as we continue to get new
members turning up each week for our
meetings at the King’s Oak.
This is very heartening for us and
inspires the whole group. We have a very
diverse mix of members and everyone that
joins is given a warm welcome and follow up
later with e-mails and information about
events that may be coming up (we are not
too formal here in the forest).
After our special night when
we went to the famous Romford
Dog track our next main event
on bikes was our trip to France
codenamed “The Ride of the
Few” when about 20 of us
invaded the Gallic Roads and
headed off for a slap-up lunch
at Le Touquet (or Le toupee as
one of our follicly challenged
members insisted on calling it).
Despite having had
turbulent weather the few days
before we travelled we had a
damp start to our meeting point
on the M25 at Brentwood but it
quickly dired out and we
enjoyed good weather all day.
That is until we arrived a bit early at the
docks in Calais for our return journey.
If I say that the heavens opened up and
it poured all its wrath onto us – you get a
picture of what it was like. Not “Die Hard”
but certainly “Weather With a Vengence”. If
the ship would have been there it wouldn’t
have been as much of a problem as it turned
out to be - but we were in the rain for about
30 minutes and had to get all the wet
weather gear out and tog up.
The crossing home was, as a result of
the bad weather, a little rough, but we
returned to Dover and dry weather quite
safely. Yours truly had an idea we were
going to see more bad weather and spent
the usual 15 minutes longer than anyone
else togging up again just in case we hit it on
the way home (about 2 hours from Dover to
the Forest). Sure enough the deluge
returned about 40 minutes from the Dartford
Tunnel and it didn’t just rain but snowed and
sleeted as well. We all made it home safely
– let’s just say some a little drier than others.
Well, what do you expect in March?
The 14th of April saw a dozen or so of us
turn up at the Annual Southend (on Sea)
Shakedown which is actually a mass ride to
the seaside from the Ace Café in North
London (see below).
We were too smart to go half an hour in
the opposite direction to the start of course
as S-o-S is 35 minutes up the road from our
little house in the forest - but we did all meet
up near “The longest pier in the world”.
Loads of great and strange looking bikes to
oggle at – bit like some of the people there!
cont....
Contact, John Saffer 020 8505 3664 NORTH LONDON
Southend Shakedown
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78 SUMMER 2009
On the 19th of April twelve of us plus two
from Kent Branch (who we obligingly
allowed in) had an exclusive BikeSafe
session with the boys in Blue from North
London group at the Ace Café. A good time
was had by all except one whose bike failed
to start in the parking lot just before the
assessed rides took place. A bit
disappointing for the individual concerned
but he’s able to do it again later.
The only
downside to the
day was that it
coincided with
another event at
the Ace; so space
there was limited
and, as a result the
group had to
change classroom /
chat location to one of the local nicks - which
was not as congenial as the café. Anyhow –
circumstances beyond anyone’s control
really. Everyone had a good time though –
maybe a tip for next time is to have it in an
area that’s more suburban.
One of our group, Mike Barrat was also
busy on the 19th April, when he was asked
to be lead biker in a the Stratford (London)
10K Classicroad race promoted by
Olympian Tessa Sanderson because the
Police were unable to attend. She needed
an advanced rider for the event. This race is
planned every year in the build up to the
Olympics.in 2012. Mike’s not used to riding
his CBR 1100 at 16mph so it was a big event
for him too!
We had a presence (Graham actually)
on the 26th of April for the Bikers in
Paradise (Wildlife) Show organized ) by
Herts Bikers near Hoddesdon. This was a
good opportunity to draw in some new
members at this event.
Towards the end of April we had a quiz
night organised by Tony Q which raised a
significant amount of money for charity.
Thanks for that Tony!
The event was treated non-too seriously
by everyone except our Group’s
Headmaster (see website for details of who
that is). Keith’s partner Mary again provided
food which went down very well – thanks
Mary.
Thanks also to the internet for helping
the winning team secure a good victory over
the general memory retention of the rest of
the group! I’m sure no one noticed…..
Ace Cafe
Ace Cafe
Aryeh at Ace Cafe
Graham at the
Wildlife Park
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:37 Page 78
SUMMER 2009 79
The event of the year for four of our guys
at the NLHOC was to make an epic trip from
London down to Lands End to start their End
To End Run up to John O’Groats (E-2-E or
LE/JOG) covering a route of 1,000 miles
which they aimed to complete in under 24
hours and so qualify for membership and
accreditation by the famous Iron Butt
Association of America. This had to be done
without exceeding speed limits and was
made doubly difficult because of excessive
road works for most of the journey requiring
extremely long periods of filtering on
Motorways choked with road works.
The four who earned our respect by
completing this journey just before this
edition went to press and doing it within the
time limit were: Steve Saffer, Russ
Ruttledge, Roland Murphy and Mike
Dignum. Between them they raised very
significant sums of money in aid of the
charity SERV (The Blood Runners) who
came to give us a talk a few months ago
about their work providi9ng blood from
bloodbanks to hospitals out of hours when
the ambulance and usual medical services
clock off. The only alternative is for very
costly taxi services to carry the blood hitting
the NHS very hard. Very well done to these
guys.
As it happens we had a surprise when
Russ who came up with the idea of the
LE/JOG told us just, before the ride, that he
was actually leaving these shores soon to
go and live back in the States.
Russ was in our “Band of Merrie Men”
for about 3 years and was a very
experienced long distance rider having been
a Harley man and Chapter Ride Planner in
America for a long time. However, he loved
his Honda Deauville and found it ideal for
English and European roads. Read about
his exploits in our Branch report of last
Summer 2008. Good Luck mate and we
hope you appreciate what you’re missing
over here when you take up residence in
Las Vegas. It’ll be very dull
after North London I can tell
you ! Russ’s home address
and contact details will be
available from me at a
price….
A small number of us (Phil, Jim, Keith &
branch sec.) took a trip the day before the
Bank Holiday (hottest day of the year) to
Aldeburgh on the East Coast in Suffolk – a
ride suggested by Rob.
cont....
The End of the Road
Lands End
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80 SUMMER 2009
We had a good lunch at Wally’s Shed in
Acton, Nr. Long Melford, Suffolk then on
towards Ipswich and through to the coast.
The roast lunch with drinks and pudding at
under £5 had the branch sec. feeling a little
sleepy just as we got to Wikham market
before our destination and he just had to
stop and grab some shut-eye.
With due regard for parking in permitted
places he was asleep instantly. Just around
the corner from this stop point was a lovely
little pub with beautiful lawns and chairs
outside…. ah well that’s the way things go –
how were we to know?
Just under 300 miles that day and great
fun – particularly when we pulled up at the
seaside next to a neat line of Harley’s that
were grabbing the tourist’s attention. We
obviously upset their party because 20
minutes later they decided to push off – our
real-life bikes were too much for them
obviously.
Our next few events are: attendance on
20/21 June at the National BikeSafe Day at
Hendon Police Training College followed by
our SECOND French Trip 28th June - 17
bikes and a few pillions are booked for this
invasion via Eurotunnel.
Eight bikes are booked for The
ACU National Rally on the 4th July
followed immediately (on the
Sunday) by a display of some the
NLHOC bikes at Haven House,
Woodford Green, Essex (a local
Children’s Hospice in need of
funds) for the kids to see and sit on
the bikes.
The HOC Roast will be with the
Bedfordshire Group up at The
Chequers Pub,Streatley at the end of July.
Further rides etc., have to be arranged
but with individual holidays coming up
August will probably be a bit quieter with
more impromptu rides taking place... This
will give us time to think about our next
events.
I urge all the members who are on our e-
mail circulation list to keep in touch with the
regular attendees up at the King’s Oak in
High Beach, Loughton, every Thursday
evening from 8pm. We get good numbers
along each week and if you want someone
to join you for a ride-out you stand a much
better chance by coming along and
mentioning it to the group. We know some
good roads and are always open to new
routes.
Keep up to date with all our exploits on
our Award Winning website at
www.nlhoc.org.uk. “What New Website”
said of our site “The NLHOC website is the
best North London Honda website this side
of North London. It beats South London into
a cocked hat and should be top of your
Christmas Wish List” how’s that for a
recommendation ?
Have a KOOL summer everyone
JohnEast Coast Ride
John asleep
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:37 Page 80
SUMMER 2009 81
THE BOY DID WELL
Reading this headline, you would all
make your own assumption as to whom it
refers.
Rossi must be in contention as the most
outstandingly successful rider of the
decade. Even though Rossi is now
encountering tough competition, his
success, skill and courage are indisputable.
There are however, other contenders for
this accolade. Like his self assured attitude
or not, Lorenzo is doing exceeding well as
one of the new comers in the GP and when
you look at the courage of riders such as
Pedrosa and Stoner, riding well before the
doctor’s all clear from their injuries you can
equally state that ‘the boys did well’ even if
a little fool hardy. Again staying with the GP
riders, look at Dovizioso his ‘never give up’
attitude, and Milandri on the well
acknowledged below par Kawasaki. Nor
must we overlook the grit and determination
of riders such as Capirossi and Edwards.
Possibly coming to the end of their riding
careers, they still fight for every position.
To really get a feel of the grit,
determination and bravery of all the riders,
everyone should take the opportunity of
attending at least one live Moto GP race in
person, not only for the amazing
atmosphere but also to appreciate the sheer
speed of the bikes. Watching them side on
it is almost impossible to see which rider is
which as they zoom by at amazing speeds,
seemingly to hardly slow down for the bends
and chicanes.
‘The boys did well’ could also apply to
the 125 category and our own Bradley
Smith. Calculated, calm smooth riding has
resulted in the podiums he so justly
deserves and it is great to see this popular
young man standing with such pride singing
the National Anthem. Alongside the other
young Brits, Webb and Reading, they are
seemingly fearless in making a name for
themselves on the GP circuit.
WSB and BSB also have their valiant
achievers and we can again name those
who have ‘gone the extra mile’ in their
efforts and who would well qualify for this
title. Spies coming over from the States and
taking the WSB by storm with his calm and
measured approach, dogged by the
determined and gritty Haga who’s quest for
the title has kerbed his wild and flamboyant
style of riding …. just a little!
In amongst the rough and tumble of the
BSB there are some great characters and
riders who have overcome much adversity
to maintain their riding career. Stuart Easton
and Chris Walker immediately spring to
mind as we recall their expressions of
ecstatic delight when they make the
podium.
So come on, who would be your
nominee in this current season for the title of
‘the boy did well’ – would it even be in the
major racing or would it be someone from
Superstock or Supersport?
The Stiggette
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:37 Page 81
82 SUMMER 2009
Where do I start? Hardly had time to
breath! Firstly I should officially welcome all
the new members who have joined the
Branch and who come along to our
meetings and ride out’s. It’s great to see so
many alongside our stalwart, hard working
regulars.
We have had lots of fun times – see
separate article on the trip to The Biker’s
Loft in Belgium, and another fantastic test
ride day at our local dealer Abingdon
Honda, trying out all their demo bikes.
Seeing the weather forecast we were
slightly worried that we were going to get
drenched but no, a nice day ensued and the
rain held off.
Our first ride out, lead by Pete, was to
Jack’s café. Some 19 bikes from Oxford
met up with the guys from the Bedford
Branch and we had an excellent get
together and some good value food at the
café. We then joined up with Reading and
West London and went to Box Hill on a
lovely sunny day, which meant
that there was a great variety of
bikes to view when we arrived.
Oxford and Wiltshire Branch
members enjoyed another
excellent ride to Lulworth Cove
and Tyneham Village lead by
Don, when again we had good
weather (is this the weather
trend for the year? Yes
please!). Even on the second
Bank Holiday weekend when
thunder was forecast for the
Monday, Terry lead us down to
Cheddar on some lovely roads
and the rain and storms held
off until well after we arrived
home.
We have had very
interesting presentations at our
well attended meetings. One of our
members, Les, went on the fund raising
Enduro Africa expedition and spent part of
the journey in the company of the two young
Princes, Harry and William. Les gave a very
interesting talk and slide show, telling us of
his plans to do a similar adventure in Brazil!
We have also enjoyed a presentation from
SERV (the local blood runner bikers). Pete
our ride out co ordinator is already an ‘on
call’ rider for them.
Secretary: Erica Gassor - 07799 49 2235
OXFORD
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:38 Page 82
April saw another well attended and
keenly contested quiz night which tested our
knowledge to the limits! Good job we have
some meetings where we can just all sit
around, chill and chat otherwise we would
be worn out!
Arrangements for Rob’s
Charity Run and our Oxford
Rally are coming along very
nicely with lots of fun and
laughter planned, and hopefully
good weather! We also have an
inter branch skittle match, an
Aunt Sally with Wiltshire and
other joint ride outs on the
agenda over the next few
months.
So with the Summer sun
shining, we at Oxford are
looking forward to having a
great time out on our bikes and
seeing lots of folk from the other
areas.
Erica
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:38 Page 83
84 SUMMER 2009
The Reading Branch
has been very busy during
the spring of 2009, with
substantial changes to the
management committee,
and many ride outs and
social events taking place.
The new management
committee consists of;
Chairman, Justin “Taz”
Bellhouse; Secretary, Chris
Ward; Ride Out Co-
ordinator, Bryan Moody,
with Marion Ward retaining
her role as Branch Treasurer. The branch
membership has also increased significantly
over the last three months with 28
attendees’ at the most recent meeting.
On the 25th of March we were visited by
Ian “JJ” Jarvis of the British Legion Riders
Branch. JJ gave us a very informative and
interesting talk on the activities of the British
Legion and how the Riders Branch came
into being and has grown. The proceeds of
our branch raffle were donated, which
together with a collection made on the night,
raised £64.00 for The British Legion.
An Inter Branch Ride Out was organised
for the 29th of March with Wiltshire, Oxford
and West London joining us at the meeting
point, the services on the A33 south of
Reading. The plan was to ride to the
Newlands Corner and Box Hill bike meets in
Surrey. The ride started badly by trying to
exit the services through the car wash, an
omen of things to come. There was some
confusion with the drop off system and the
ride became separated in Farnham town
centre.
Some of the group made it to the first
stop at Newlands Corner while the majority
headed straight for Box Hill.
We all ended up at Box Hill in the end by
various routes including passing through
Hampton Court and Aldershot which are
miles apart. It was a shame as some of the
best parts of the ride were omitted, but in
typical HOC fashion, we all had a good
laugh about it. And of course there’s always
next time.
Our EGM to elect new committee
members took place on the 8th of April and
was followed by an Easter themed quiz
prepared superbly by Bryan and Colleen.
The quiz was won by Bob, Jayne and Andy
who naturally had to accept the challenge of
organising the next one.
The Easter weekend was busy for
Reading Branch, with us attending two
events at Reading Abbey Rugby Club.
The annual Egg Run took place on Good
Friday. I met up with Steve, Maureen, John,
Jude and Michael from West London
Branch and we rode over to Bracknell,
where Reading members Taz and Andy
were waiting for us. We then rode to the run
starting point in Reading where Dave and Di
joined us. Although the weather wasn’t
brilliant there was a good turnout of around
250 bikes bearing Easter Eggs for
distribution. We rode through Reading in a
large convoy having right of way at all
junctions, much to the annoyance of some
other road users.
READINGSecretary -Chris Ward 07899 967327
Group gathering at Box Hill
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:38 Page 84
SUMMER 2009 85
At the rugby club two Gladiators from the
TV show were on hand to sign autographs
and keep the crowd amused. Over 3500
eggs were collected this year from trade and
individual donations.
The Reading MAG Bike Show was held
on Easter Sunday also at the rugby club.
Bob, Jayne, Marion and I went over on the
Saturday afternoon to set up the HOC
Stand. After we erected the gazebo we
pitched our tents inside it and headed to the
bar for a good evening. We woke on Easter
Sunday to find it a little damp, which
unfortunately would limit the number of
visitors to the show, however after breakfast
we set up the regalia and waited for the
rush. We were pleasantly surprised by the
interest in the HOC stand and lots of visitors
requested information. We have since had
a few new members join the branch from the
show. We also sold £70.00 worth of regalia
which I felt was quite a bonus. There were
a lot of varied trade stands at the show and
also a bike competition which attracted
some nice bikes of all
ages. During the day
the weather did improve
and we were joined by
Bryan, Roger and Krys.
We were made most
welcome by the
Reading MAG
members and are
looking forward to
attending the next show
in August to which we
have been invited.
Saturday 18th of April saw a bowling
evening take place with Wiltshire Branch at
the Lakeside Super Bowl in Thatcham. Bob,
Jayne, Ian, Angie, Colleen, her daughter
Jennifer, Marion and I represented Reading.
We had two games of individual bowling
with food and drinks as well. We had a
really good evening with the Wiltshire
members and have promised to make this
an annual event in future.
The next day saw another inter branch
ride out take place, this time organised
superbly by Wiltshire with members from
Oxford and Reading taking part. The
meeting point, Countess Services on the
A303 at Amesbury, was 82 miles from my
home and I made it there with five minutes
to spare, which was a bit to close for
comfort. Also on the ride from Reading
were Roger and Krys, Bob and Jayne, and
Dave and Di. After leaving Amesbury the 23
bikes headed south to our first stop at
Compton Abbas Airfield near Shaftesbury
for a tea, coffee and comfort break. We then
rode some beautiful roads through the
Dorset countryside to our next stop at
Lulworth Cove where of course fish and was
the order of the day. There was quite a
queue at the shop but the freshly cooked
fish was worth the wait. It was quite warm
and the refreshing sea air was welcomed as
we all strolled down to the beach. Soon we
were on the road again and heading for our
next stop at Tyneham Village. This village
was deserted around WWII and has not
been re-inhabited since; a fascinating place.
After our stop at Tyneham it was back on the
bikes and off to our
final stop at
Salisbury for a
drink. I didn’t get
home until about 8
o’clock having
covered 290 miles
and was thoroughly
tired out but it was
a great day and
thanks must go to
Wiltshire for their
great organisation.
Gladiators signing autographs
HOC Stand at the Reading MAG Bike Show
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:38 Page 85
86 SUMMER 2009
At the branch meeting on the 22nd of
April we were treated to a very interesting
and entertaining talk on Gliding by Mick
Wells. If you thought that gliders were just
towed up to altitude and then floated
gracefully back to earth how wrong you
would be. Gliders can travel hundreds of
miles after launch and then turn around and
come back, absolutely amazing! We hope
to arrange a gliding evening with Mick at
Lasham airfield in the near future.
On the 13th of May we held our first BBQ
at The Swan and were joined by Michael,
John and Jude from West London. Jo Read
from Sue Ryder Care also joined us and
gave us an update of events at the
Nettlebed Hospice. The food provided by
our host Jenny was awesome and was too
much for some but not others. We had a
really good turn out for this meeting and
everybody enjoyed themselves. Our raffle
made a profit of £47.00 which was donated
to Sue Ryder Care who have now been
officially adopted as our branch charity.
The Honda Day at the Ace Café took
place on the 24th of May and Marion and I
along with Steve and Maureen Hill of West
London and Graham Gull of North London
represented the HOC. As soon as the HOC
gazebo had been erected and the stand
completed, Marion and I joined Maureen in
the café for a hearty breakfast. The
breakfasts at the Ace are to be
recommended and are reasonable value for
money. Quite a bit of interest was shown in
the HOC stand and four new members were
signed up on the day. Many more prospects
took away information on the club and
hopefully they will be seen at a branch
meeting soon. A ride to the Ace was
organised by Bob and left The Swan bound
for George White Motorcycles in Slough.
There, more riders joined the group for the
final leg into London. Reading branch was
well represented at the Ace with 17
members present and was responsible for
many of the HOC tee shirts that were to be
seen at the event. The day also featured the
London Monkey Run and a total of 47
Monkey Bikes from all over the country
attended. There were also some very nice
Hondas on display including many classics
and one very special piece off Honda
history, an NR750. The General Manger of
Honda (UK) Motorcycles, Steve Martindale
was also present at the event and visited the
HOC stand. The Ace Café was also the
destination of the Bedfordshire Rally
Sunday ride out and we welcomed the
participants and stored their helmets and
clothing in
the gazebo
whilst they
l o o k e d
around. The
weather was
superb and
there were
some very
red body
parts by the
end of the
day.
Bob, Krys and Roger at Compton Abbas
Branch BBQ HOC at the Ace Café
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:38 Page 86
SUMMER 2009 87
On the 27th of May we had a quiz night
organised by Bob and Jayne. The quiz was
won by Bryan, Colleen,
Ian and Angie with a little
help from Jenny the
landlady. This meeting
also featured the highest
attendance of any
Reading Branch meeting
with a total of 29 visitors
which included 8 new
members.
Saturday the 30th of
May was our eagerly
awaited test ride day with
our local dealer, Reading
Honda. Many bikes
were available to test
during the day including;
CBR1000RR, CBR600RR, CBF1000,
CB1000R, VFR800F,
Varadero, Deauville,
CB1300S, Transalp and
Silverwing. Mark Clargo
from Oxford led the rides
which took us from
Reading down to the A30
at Hartley Wintney, along
to Hook and then back to
Reading taking in some
nice twisties. The rides
were great fun,
especially towards the
end of the day.
Everybody who rode the
Fireblade arrived back with an
inane grin and I think all agreed
that the CB1000R was a real
hooligan bike and provided a lot of
fun. Colleen and Erica supplied
refreshments which were much
appreciated during the very warm
day. We also signed up two new
members for the branch and a
number of others took away
information. Thanks to Reading
Honda for the loan of the bikes,
Mark Clargo for leading the rides,
Erica and Colleen for the lovely cakes and
welcoming cold drinks and Bryan for putting
the day together.
The Reading Branch looks forward to
making more friends over the next few
months and watch out for us at the National
Rally in September.
Until then ride safely.
Chris
HOC at the Ace Café
The Amazing Honda NR750
Ready For Testing
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88 SUMMER 2009
So far, this year, South Wales Branch
has had a busy and enjoyable schedule.
Gareth and I attended the management
meeting at Leicester once again. It was nice
to see people you don’t often have a chance
to catch up with and get the latest on HOC
news. It really makes you feel part of the
National Club.
However, as we were in Leicester, we
missed a very successful rideout with the
branch to Llyn Briane (or Lake Biriani as
Mick calls it), a very beautiful lake in mid
Wales. There was a good turnout and the
weather stayed fine. Several members
emailed to say how pleased they were with
the way Terry and Alun organised the day.
On 1st May, a group of us went to
Paignton for the Bike Festival. We booked a
few rooms at a very nice hotel and had a
really good two days. The weather was fab
and a good time was had by all. A highlight
of the day was the arrival of the Air
Ambulance to collect a cheque.
One of our social evenings was held at
our new meeting place. We went there for a
meal to suss it out. We had a very nice meal
and the staff at the pub were very helpful.
Although everyone is very friendly, it can get
a bit too noisy there to hold a meeting, so we
might have to reconsider. I’ll keep you
posted.
On 10th May, we went to a race meeting
at Pembrey. Once again, the sun shone for
all it was worth and we had a really good
day. We had a picnic and thoroughly
enjoyed the racing. Surprisingly, it was the
125s that were the most exciting to watch.
On Sunday 24th May, Gareth and I went
up to the Ace Café for the Honda Day. North
London Branch were manning the HOC stall
and it was nice to catch up with them. There
were bikes back and forth all day. There was
a really good turnout; probably because of
the fantastic weather. There were lots of
monkey bikes there, which seemed like a lot
of fun. The others in the branch went on a
rideout that day, too; taking in Mid Wales
and ending up in Porthcawl for fish and
chips. Lovely!
SOUTH WALESSecretary: Donna Richards - 01639 766406
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SUMMER 2009 89
I am writing this having just returned
from our annual weekend away in North
Wales. We couldn’t believe our luck with the
weather. It has been wall to wall sunshine
for the full weekend. Something really
strange happened on the way there on
Friday. Gareth was leading and I was on the
back. Suddenly, as we were gliding through
the beautiful Brecon Beacons, Gareth
announced that he could see a wallet
resting on the boot of the Merc in front of us.
He started trying to signal to the driver,
indicating for him to pull over. However,
being a car driver, and totally prejudiced
against bikers, he decided to pull away and
dangerously overtake the car in front of him.
He must have thought that Gareth wanted
him to pull over so that we could pass.
Anyway, as he accelerated, the wallet flew
off the boot and emptied its contents all over
the road. Credit cards and money were
blowing all over the place. Some of our
bikes stopped to pick it up, (not for
themselves, you understand, but so that it
could be returned.) We chased after the
“Burke in a Merc” to tell him, but of course,
he just drove faster. Eventually, we
managed to draw level and I waved my
wallet at him. He got the message. We
managed to return it, and I think he really did
feel like a burke, then.
After that, things settled down a bit. We
had a lovely rideout on Saturday, around
Lake Bala and around Lake Vyrnwy, (as
seen on Springwatch). It was great. In
Wales, we have certainly got the best biking
roads in the world. We also visited Pistyll
Rhaedar, (Rhaedar Waterfall), which was
amazing. I’ve included a photo of some of us
walking up to the waterfall.
Of course, no trip to North Wales would
be complete with a ride around Bwlch yr
Oernant, (for those not familiar with the
Welsh language, that’s Horseshoe Pass).
Gareth and I rode ahead (and cut them off at
the pass), no really, Gareth took a photo of
the others as they made their way down.
Attached.
All this excitement and it’s only the last
day of May. We’ve still got our Summer
Holiday in Austria to look forward to, a mini
rally we have yet to organise, manning the
HOC stall at Llangollen Bike Show and, of
course, the Christmas Party to plan. I
haven’t got time to go to work. We need to
win the lottery!
Anyway, let’s hope the rest of the
Summer is as good, weatherwise as the
start has been.
Have a good one!
Donna
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Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:38 Page 89
I was going to say “Hi” to everyone from
sunny Solent, but on reading the other
reports in this issue, it would appear that the
sun has put in an appearance right across
the country. Let’s hope it stays like it.
Solent branch have been up to our usual
tricks, with our midweek Wednesday night
runs and our first Sunday monthly runs. The
destination for these is always “somewhere
nice” depending on the weather, the
numbers who turn up and the consensus of
the group as a whole. The only exception to
this is when the event is a pre-planned
national event such as the HOC Roast.
One of our major highlights of the year
has been our New Forest Rally, which was
again a great success. Apart from a couple
of “sharp” showers, and some rain
overnight, the sun was out for most of the
weekend.
Those of you who are regulars know that
each year we tend to end up having to
negotiate our way through a number of
“issues” to enable the rally to run in the way
we wish. This came to a head in 2008, when
the stress and upset resulted in poor
Barbara not being able to enjoy the rally as
much as she would otherwise have done.
For this year, I tried to pre-empt any
problems by discussing with the powers that
be at Forest Holidays exactly how we could
achieve both our objectives and theirs. The
management of Forest Holidays were very
helpful, and on arrival, it appeared that this
had filtered down to the wardens who were
very amicable this year. There remained the
issue of the size of our marquee, and the
fact that we use a horse box to transport all
the kit, both of which would appear to
contravene the rules of the Verderers
(commoners with historic forest rights).
However, on the assurance that I would
accept personal responsibility for the
marquee if hauled before the Verderers
Court, all was settled. Or at least we thought
it was, until we met the site Health & Safety
Officer.
The Health & Safety Officer (I have
capitalised his title, as his status demands
it) had a uniform, and a vehicle, and I am
sure the vehicle contained a hat! Like Nanny
Ogg, the single toothed witch from the
novels of Terry Pratchett, he awaited our
arrival with clipboard at the ready.
Having informed us exactly where he
wanted us to pitch the marquee, and having
demanded that we complete a risk
assessment for its erection (complete with
full details of how pregnant women and
disabled persons were to be protected
during the task), he left us to get on with it
for a while. He returned a little later to check
we had the necessary fire extinguishers,
and reminded us how important it was to
ensure access to the fire engines that we
would undoubtedly be calling upon within
hours.
90 SUMMER 2009
Perhaps you have been onan adventure,
or taken part in something alittle different.
How about telling us abouthow it went?
We love to get articles frommembers, especially with
photos.
Please send to:[email protected]
SOLENTSecretary -Tim Lee 023 8025 2113
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:38 Page 90
SUMMER 2009 91
On the Friday I had to leave the site to
fetch my bike, and returned to a very cross
and unhappy Barbara. Evidently, at the sight
of our meat delivery, our mono-toothed
tormentor had sped down the field in his
vehicle to announce to all and sundry that
there was no way we were going to able to
do anything as dangerous as cooking in the
marquee. With an Arne-esque cry of “I’ll be
back”, he sped off to consult his “bosses”.
At this point I must offer my sincere
apologies to both John Measures and
branch stalwart Tom Anderson. John is a
very accomplished solicitor, and Tom is
actually a health and safety officer for a
large regional newspaper. Unfortunately,
rather than greeting them with a cheery
“Hello, I hope you had a good journey” I
think my greeting was more along the lines
of “Thank goodness you’re here, I need your
help!” It had been a bad week for other
reasons, and I am sorry to both; I am sure
they will forgive me.
As it happened, not another word was
heard all weekend from Mr Health and
Safety, and we can only assume his
“bosses” cooled his heels. He did resort to
taking photos at a distance, and I know that
several members were keen to ask whether
he had obtained permission from the
parents of the children who were inevitably
included, but by that time the medicinal
effects of Hob Goblin precluded and further
action.
I suppose it wouldn’t be as bad if he had
somehow had an issue with motorcyclists,
but it would appear all were suffering. We
heard rumours of him publically
admonishing one camper who was helping
his son cast his fishing rod into the pond.
Fishing is restricted to under 14’s, and so
parents are not allowed to physically assist
their children without being guilty of a rule
breech; I suspect his remaining tooth will not
last the summer!
The upshot is that we will almost
certainly be looking for an alternative site for
next year. Wherever we go, the format will
remain the same but it will hopefully be a
little more relaxed for some of us.
On that note it is time to say cheerio and
hope to see some of you at the National or
before.
Tim
Take care Sam! Cows weren’t included in the risk assessment!
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:39 Page 91
Hi Folks,
We’ve had a storming start to the biking
season with two more new members, Alan
and John, so welcome guys, and three of
the best ride outs so far.
First there was Barmouth on the 15th
March. We had a gorgeous day for it, the
sun was shining, it was warm enough for
leathers and three bikes turned up for the
jaunt. So off we trot down into Wales. First
stop was Rhug, an organic farm café on the
A5, which does the best food and hot
choccie; not cheap, but well worth it if you’re
ever up this way.
Brekkies and brew were had all
round. After we were suitably fuelled
up, we carried on our merry way and
found a few gorgeous roads that we’d never
been on before, including a lovely coast
road just underneath Barmouth. We got to
Barmouth and one of our guys had gone
there to meet us, so we had a catch up with
him as well as lunch in a fab café on the sea
front. We got stuck in some serious traffic
coming home
and spent
over 15 miles
filtering and
riding on the
wrong side of
the road LOL,
but hey we
got home
safe and
sound eventually.
Then it was onto our re-
scheduled run to Ashbourne,
known as the birth place of
Gingerbread men, hence the
name of the run. We had six
bikes and seven people on this
one, much more like it. We
should’ve had seven bikes, but
Colin’s CB1000 decided to
have brake trouble on the way
to the meeting point, so he went
home after waving us off.
92 SUMMER 2009
WEST COAST RIDERSSecretary: Phil Bell - 07900 507187
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SUMMER 2009 93
Again another stunning
day weather wise and lots of
very nice roads, unfortunately
now being ruined by new 50
mph speed limits on them, but
gorgeous scenery and roads
none the less.
When we reached
Ashbourne we went to a
chippie for lunch, with some of
the guys having the biggest
sausages you have ever seen!
Then it was time to head home,
and Brian took the lead for a
while and stopped us at a
fantastic viewing spot with
amazing views over the
Derbyshire hills. Then it was a
quick stop at the services on the
way home before we all parted
ways.
The last ride we’ve had was
to Elan Valley on the 24th May.
Well what can I say about this ride….it was
perfect. What with cracking the pavements
weather, fantastic roads and scenery and
brilliant friends to share it with, what more
could you ask for. It all started at the Little
Chef at 9am
where we set off
with six bikes and
eight people. First
stop Rhug again
for the usual
brekkie and brew.
U n f o r t u n a t e l y
Colin turned
back, so we were
left with five bikes
now, and wow,
what roads we
found on the way to Elan Valley! I was sat on
the back of the bike, shutter bugging away
like a demon with the camera. The scenery
was to die for and so were the roads.cont....
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94 SUMMER 2009
We stopped at a dam en route as well,
as the lake there was gorgeous, as you can
see in the photo. Then it was onto Elan
Valley.
After everyone stripped off for the
occasion we trotted off to the café for lunch
and THE best chocolate choux buns you will
ever taste. So it was now time to work off
those calories with a walk up to the dam
itself. I have to say that the water tumbling
down the dam was getting very tempting to
stand under by this point, it was roasting.
But we resisted the urge and eventually
went back to the bikes.
Back on the road and off up
the other side of the dam and
down the Elan Valley trail.
What a stunning place this
was. There were another three
dams to visit and photograph
and some amazing roads to
play on.
We ended
up back in
Rhaeder and
went to
the Kite
feeding
centre. We
got there 10 minutes before it
shut, so the lady only charged us £5 for
all of us instead of £4 each; we were
very grateful to her. We went for an ice
cream fix and wandered over to view
the Kites. There must’ve been about 30
or 40 of them flying around, and it was
totally awesome to see them. They are
beautiful birds.
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SUMMER 2009 95
And so to
h e a d i n g
home. We
got to Rhyl
and decided
it was time
for supper
and I mean supper. By
this point it was 10pm
and we got a supper of
chips and gravy etc
and sat on the beach
watching the sun set
over Rhyl. As crap as
Rhyl is these days, it
was a totally cool
experience. As you
can see it was a very
long day, with Phil and
I leaving our house at
9am and getting home at just gone
11pm…..and it was worth every second. We
had a totally amazing day shared with such
good friends and weather to die for. So a
massive thanks to Colin, Gary, Lewis,
Richard, Graham and Su for making it a
definite day to remember.
The next highlight was Ruth and
Stritchy’s wedding on the 30th May in
Bedford. Phil and I spent the day at
Whipsnade zoo in seriously gorgeous
weather, then off to Graham and Jax’s
house to get changed for the wedding
reception. Thanks a million to Graham and
Jax as well for the lend of the house. Ruth
looked beautiful and
Stritchy had scrubbed up
well as well LOL. Nah you
both looked gorgeous
guys and congratulations.
Hope you have many
many very happy years
together. Love you both
xx
And that’s it from me for now…..so till
next time, I hope you all have as much fun
as we’ve had so far this year and that we
have that hot summer they’ve been
promising us for the last god knows how
many years!
Love Rona & Phil xxxxxx
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:40 Page 95
96 SUMMER 2009
WEST LONDONSecretary: Steve Hill - 020 8291 5263
Firstly, I must say it’s nice to see a
Kawasaki on the front of the mag! Shows
that we are not too precious and stand by
our rulebook which (hopefully) still states
that to belong to the HOC you have to ‘own
or have owned a Honda’
Secondly, this is not Steve. He went off
to the IOM and forgot to write the Branch
report; tut tut Steve.
In March we had a joint run with Reading
Branch to Box Hill, which was quite
interesting! Sorry to the two guys that went
the ‘long way round’ to Box Hill from
Farnham!
In April we met up with Reading once
more to join Thames Vale Vultures Charity
Easter Egg Run. I love that run, loads of
bikes riding through Reading; brilliant. A
couple of ‘Gladiators’ were in attendance at
the end of the run.
In May we were back with Reading
again (getting a bit cosy this liaison!) for a
fab BBQ at their meeting place, The Swan.
We were made very welcome by all
members, especially Marion, Taz and Erica,
and the landlady who produced a mouth-
watering and substantial feast. Thank you
Reading.
That weekend Mike Jon and I went off to
the BMF rally. It was a bit of a strange
journey as Jon had tightened the chain on
the Kawasaki but had been a bit too
enthusiastic. It felt really weird and sounded
even weirder, not a pleasant journey! Still, it
seems ok now.
The following weekend we went up to
the Ace Café for Honda Day, featuring
Monkey bikes. Apart from not being allowed
to park in the car park (Kawasaki), it was
good to have a mooch around all the
different bikes, mainly Honda! I always
enjoy the Ace, it has a great atmosphere.
Well, that brings us up to date at the time
of writing. We’ve had a few new members
down, and some come back, some don’t.
We offer a varied runs list, so if you’re in the
area why don’t you come on down and
check us out.
Jude
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:40 Page 96
SUMMER 2009 97
Well, last time I submitted a report for
Golden Wing (Winter 2008), I was strongly
promoting our forthcoming Wilts Rally in the
hope that many of you would not have been
put off by the wet camp field that year.
At the time of writing, we have just held
the Rally and I’m very pleased to report that
attendance was good (23 Friday night) and
our rally was a great success, thanks to all
the work our small committee (Claire, Robin,
Rob, Jim, Ian & myself) put into finding a
new site and planning this years Rally.
So what did we do?
Well after last year, it was obvious we
needed to find a drier site, so first exercise
was to ‘Google’ Wiltshire campsites, make
contact by phone and find out what ‘key’
facilities were available.
If it had no showers, it was rejected! If
there was not a pub within walking distance,
it was rejected! If there was, but the pub
didn’t do good food (or breakfasts), it was
rejected – that gave us a shortlist of 10.
Next we got on our bikes and took a look
– both during and after rainfall. If the ground
was too boggy, it was rejected! If there was
no space to play rounders, it was rejected!
Now that is how you ended up with the
Church Farm, Mildenhall site this year,
which seemed to fit the bill.
Likewise, thanks to John & Pam
Desmond at the Horseshoe Inn for getting
up early and making those breakfasts,
together with making us so welcome.
Clair, Ian, Robin & myself got to work the
Friday morning, setting the site up –
marquees to unbox and erect, banners to
hang, road marker posts to position, power
supply to connect and, most importantly,
kettle to fire up!
Our ‘Early Birds’ award this year go to
Phillip & Pauline Dowling who arrived at
1.30, only 2 hours after we had – and we
had spent the first hour getting Robin’s
motor home unstuck from a wet patch in the
top corner of the camp field (well it looked
dry!).
Upon arrival, our guests were forced to
commit themselves to a choice of
athleticism for that evening – playing pool or
shove ha’penny. To my surprise, most chose
the shove ha’penny and after dinner that
night the competitions began – 14
challenging for the shove ha’penny title but
only 8 for the pool.
At around 11.15 we heard the ‘victory
roar’ as the competition winner, Dave
Andrews, did his lap of honour around the
table. The shove ha’penny competition
however was more a marathon than a
sprint. Some even tried to ‘throw the game’
just to get to bed earlier, but by around
midnight, we had our winner – our very own
chairman, Ian Hammond. Winners took
prize monies of £5 & £10 respectively –
mine’s a pint Ian!
Come Saturday morning, we started our
first ride-out, ably led by Robin, who gave us
a great tour of northern Wiltshire, taking in a
tour of Wilton Windmill mid morning and
leading us down to Old Sarum (an ancient
Hill Fort near Salisbury) for lunch.
WILTSHIRESecretary: John Theobald 01793 853701
The Horseshoe Inn
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98 SUMMER 2009
Here we could sit on top of
the embankment, watching light
aircraft taking off below us then
climbing over our heads, whilst
munching our sarnies – could
almost see the pilots faces!
By mid afternoon, the tour took us to a
regular stop-over of Stonehenge, where we
wrestled with international tourists to get a
coffee & use the loo.
Our ride out ‘drop off’ system had
worked well all day, keeping everyone on
the same route, but as we left our fuel stop
in Devizes, later that afternoon, although 18
bikes correctly turned LEFT, a certain rallier
decided to turn RIGHT, taking 3 other bikes
with him! Can’t say too much….but now I
know why they call our HOC secretary ‘Mr
Right’! (first name Always??)
Once this ‘splinter group’ realised their
error we successfully brought them back
into the fold in time for a group photograph
in front of Silbury Hill, another of Wiltshire’s
mysterious ancient monuments as nobody
knows why it’s there (except us locals – cuz
it was really a Lardie Cake mine!)
We then finished off our route, passing
through the stone circle at Avebury and past
a White Horse at Hackpen Hill, before
returning to the campsite and falling hungrily
upon our first batch of lardie cakes.
As the weather was too good to miss, we
pretty soon fired up the
barbeque and yours truly
to a “booze cruise” into
Marlborough to get our
guests suitably refreshed
by the drinks of their
choice. One particular
member of our party
decided that port was to be his “tipple” and
proceeded to put away a bottle of it (with a
little help) before demanding that a game of
rounders needed to be played!
This Rallier, now affectionately known
as “Steamin” Glyn Davis began to
demonstrate his hand to eye coordination
skills followed by his remarkable turn of
speed around the rounders circuit – yes
literally “steamin”!
Nobody can quite remember whose
team won as bad light stopped play, but
Glyn's performance was truly 'memorable'.
Wilton Windmill
Silbury Hill
Lardie Cake
Trout Spotters
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SUMMER 2009 99
Hangovers were promptly dealt with
next day by a good full English breakfast in
the pub before 'Spot on' Don Heaver led our
Sunday ride out around other areas of
Wiltshire, not normally found by tourists.
Don led us on some great roads at a
'brisk pace' until our lunch stop at Compton
Abbas airfield (again one of our favourite
places) where we annoyed the catering staff
by actually creating a queue - some
businesses just hate customers!
Our mid-afternoon stop took us to the
Army Air Museum at Middle Wallop where
the coffee was good and the planes were
even older than my CB250RS
At 17.05 'Spot On' Don led us back into
our campsite to fall upon our second (and
last) batch of lardies - and this is where Don
got his handle because 17.05 was precisely
the time he said he would be back on his 1st
Ride Out Schedule - now that's timing!
Not having the energy for a 2nd bout of
rounders, our post lardie exercise was to be
a walk down the nearby River Kennet,
where we happily played 'spot the brown
trout', but nothing like as exciting as 'will
duckling number 13 (lucky for some) ever
get back up the rapids to his/her mum and
siblings??? After what seemed an eternity of
natural history tension, we were all relieved
to see mum & siblings slide down the rapids
to meet and collect the 'prodigal duckling'
which otherwise would not have lasted the
night out!
After dinner we split into 7 teams in the
pub to test our mental prowess with a quiz
night. After two rounds and the usual batch
of queries, arguments, 2nd opinions and
offers to hang the quiz master, I have to
report that our HOC Chairman's team stole
the show - nice one Dibble!
A few more drinks followed, the midnight
oil was burned back at the campsite and
what seemed in no time at all we had started
our Monday rideout, led again by Robin
(Radar) Williams - who seems to know
every road and footpath in Wiltshire (he
needs no maps)!
Our last (half day) rideout took us to the
Crofton Beam Engine near Great Bedwyn
where we had a wonderful tour by the
Charity's Chairman, Ray, who explained the
amazing workings of this two cylinder steam
engine which ran at 11rpm, each cylinder
stroke lifting 1 ton of water from the canal
below each time! Our route to this, however,
had been preceded by a 5 mile trek (@
20mph) through the centre of Savernake
forest - an ancient hunting forest - but never
saw a deer once!
Lastly, before returning, we called into a
beautiful wood (at Clatford Bottom) to
marvel at the carpet of bluebells which were
just coming into their prime (I told you Robin
knows all the best footpaths as well as
roads)!
I got told off recently by 'Big Jim' for not
putting a report into Spring 2009 Golden
Wing so apologies for the length of this one
as it's making up for that.
This will be my final report as Branch
Secretary as I am stepping down after 3
years in the job to let 'younger blood' take
the branch forward. I hope I have introduced
some fellow members to the wonders of
both lardie cakes and shove ha'penny as
well as some of the delightful roads and
sights within my beloved Wiltshire.
I intend to remain an active member and
hope to continue to enjoy the future
meetings with my many new friends.
Best wishes to all,
Theo.
Bluebell Girls
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100 SUMMER 2009
THE MANHOC LONG WEEKEND AWAY
IN TINTERN
Saturday
So, the day arrives and with it, the nice
weather. We all meet up at Poplar 2000
services and make ready for the journey
down South. The part consists of: John &
Judy, Paul & Jackie, Malcolm & Val, Peter,
Tony, Alan - all on bikes - and Geoff & Karen
in the car as our support vehicle (due to
Geoffs new hip, not because they don't
ride).
After a bit of banter and another check of
the route, we set off down the A49. I love
this road - it's fast, smooth, has twists, very
little traffic and no speed cameras (well, I
didn't see any). We carried on for about 70
miles until we came to the Craven Arms.
This is a village, not a pub and we found a
nice bikers cafe at the side of the road.
When I pulled in, the car park was empty. By
the time everyone had parked, we were
joined by two other biking groups and the
place was packed. But never mind; we sat
outside for a brew and some lunch
(remember that nice weather I mentioned
above - well, it was still here).
A splash of petrol for Tony and we
carried on. Geoff and Karen had set of
before us and we expected to find them
waiting when we arrived. So we shot off and
had a nice time down the twisty windy roads
of South Wales. Eventually we arrived at
Tintern and soon found one of the hotels.
We dropped half the group off here and
proceeded to the other one. But, no Geoff. A
quick phone call soon established that he'd
missed the turn and had found Newport - a
mere 30 miles away. Oops.....
Next piece of fun was parking the two
FJRs. The B&B owner (Ian) suggested we
use his driveway. This did not go down well
with John or myself since it was a steep 30
degrees with no wall. So, we put them next
to the VW garage assuming that no-one
would mind - WRONG! We got a call later to
move them. So, we had to park them on
heavy gravel - which was fun when it came
time to move them out. Note to myself -
check this out before we book!
But we were on holiday - so who cares.
Once Geoff & Karen arrived, we got
changed (in the lounge because the rooms
weren't ready) and walked back to the other
hotel to enjoy a nice drink before dinner.
Here we found a "friendly ale" - a real ale of
4.6 sg. Very palatable and went straight to
my head. Wonderful. By this time the sun
was blazing down and I could feel myself
burning a bit. But a makeshift cap soon
cured that problem and more drinks were
consumed (purely to restore the lost water,
of course.
The next thing we tried was the local
vinyard. This just happened to be right next
to the hotel and was offering free wine
tastings. How could we refuse? So we didn't
and walked up the hill to the shop.
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SUMMER 2009 101
We did have a nice time sampling the
local produce and even bought some
bottles to take home.
Then, back to the hotel for another drink
before we ate. We booked for 7pm because
"the place can get very busy later on". [Ha
ha - we were the only people in the
restaurant]
This was followed by more drinks and
eventually bed. A great first day.
Sunday
Up late the next morning and
down for breakfast for 9:30. The fun
soon started with the "Fawlty
Towers" service. The owners were
very nice, but everything seemed a
bit disorganised. But the food was
excellent and there was plenty of it.
Once done, we went outside to wait
for the others to arrive before we
shot off to Bath for the day. [Just to
remind you - the weather was hot
and sunny all day.] The rest of the
party soon arrived and we headed
down the nice twisty roads to Bath -
over the Severn Bridge and along the M4.
Once in Bath, we were able to use the bus
lanes to bypass all the traffic (sorry Geoff!)
and we quickly got parked up in a town
centre car park. [This was where Peter tried
to head butt the barrier when it came down
on him].
We got changed and headed out into the
sunshine to find the Roman Baths.
Geoff & Karen went shopping, Malcolm
& Val did the open top bus tour, Paul &
Jackie did the tourist stuff and the rest of us
went round the baths. Which was very
impressive and worth a visit. Once we came
out, John, Judy, Tony and myself headed for
the chocolatier for a drink and some cake
and then we all met up afterwards to
continue our promenading around Bath.
Once that was done, we headed back to the
bikes and shot off back to Tintern.
cont....
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102 SUMMER 2009
The evening was once again pleasant.Drinks before dinner (as normal), a quickshower and we all met up at the Rose &Crown "The best steak in Wales". Onceagain, we were asked to be there earlybecause it could be very busy later on.Once again, we were somewhat surprisedto be the last people to leave - at 9:30pm.Before that we had some great food - myfillet steak was lovely and most people reallyenjoyed it (Karens was a bitunderdone for her - so sheswapped with Geoff). Drink andconversation flowed well into thenight until it was time to leave.
We walked back to the nextpub and carried on. Ahah - we
have a pool table. It'samazing how well youthink you are playingwith a glass ofsomething inside you.Then, back to bed and get ready for the nextdays adventures.
MondayAn earlier start for Monday. 8:30
breakfast which didn't please some of ourparty - "I've only been up 5 minutes and youare lucky I'm not down in my nightie". Butshe soon woke up and we all enjoyed agood breakfast. Then, onto the bikes andhead 500 yards up the road to TinternAbbey - a fabulous structure which datedback to the 11th century. We all met up here.
Paul & Malcolm decided to head straightoff as it was spitting with rain. The rest of usbraved the elements and decided to stay. Atwhich point, it stopped raining!
We had a great time wandering aroundthe site, marvelling at the grandeur of thebuildings and wondering how they managedto build it all in those early days. Manyphotos were taken and much gazing wasdone. Eventually we tired of this and went
out to find Geoff,Karen and Petewho had parkedthemselves in anearby cafe andwere busy scoffingtea and cake. Wejoined them for awhile before we allset off for thejourney home.
Not much tosay here except that we stopped for lunch inthe Craven Arms Hotel - muchrecommended for its bucket of soup andvery large platter of potato wedges. Far toomuch for one person - Judy had to get Tonyto help her out. Then, a speedy run back upthe A49 and home.
In conclusion, we had a great three daysaway - everyone seemed to enjoythemselves and many thanks to Judy fororganising it all.
Alan Sharkey
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SUMMER 2009 103
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Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:41 Page 103
104 SUMMER 2009
A question you get after most weekends
and more so after a Bank Holiday, especially
after a four day Easter break. Well the first
work colleague to ask that this very morning
made me ponder my reply and in a split
second re-live what I had indeed done at the
weekend.
It all started a few weeks back when
Erica, our dynamo of a secretary, sent out
an e-mail asking if anyone was interested in
taking a trip to Belgium to stay at the Bikers
Loft near Brugge.
Well here I have to confess a sad lacking
in my biking experiences. I have been
biking since the age of 16 and am now fast
approaching 64 and have never taken a bike
out of England, but always thought I would
like to. However, I certainly had a little voice
in my head saying things like “they ride on
the other side, not sure you could cope with
that, what happens if you forget, em head
on crash I suppose.” Well I mentioned it to
my wife of just on 40 years Sue, and what
do you think Sue said "Why don't you
go, you have always wanted to"
probably not quite what I expected if
she said "You can't do that we cannot
afford it or the garden needs digging
at Easter" I would have had an easy
out and still thought one day I will go
"if I get over these nerves". Well to
move on I like several others replied
saying "Yes Erica we would like to
give it a go"
Case in top box, tank bag in place
off I set on Good Friday morning at
08.30 heading to the Reading
Services to meet up with the others
at 09.00, at this point my mind pictured all
my travel companions, Erica and Gerald of
course, Pete and Jenny, Jim and Sue,
Richard and Maria, Ant and Richard who I
would be sharing a room with ( my first
conversation with Richard was at a club
night when he asks "Do you snore " to which
I replied " I have no idea as I 'm always
asleep at the time”).
Well into Reading services I headed to
meet up with most of them only to be meet
with our number one leader and expert front
runner Pete, at this point my confidence
took a trip downward as Pete had somehow
developed a whopping great black eye and
I was not sure if we would be getting into all
sorts of fights or lost at every turn being led
by a one eyed man.
Well as it turns out, one eye, three if you
count Jenny's and I think we must, was
more than enough to lead us in a confident,
safe and mile munching way, Thanks Pete
and Jenny - you’re the BEST.
WHAT DID YOU DO AT THE WEEKEND? COLIN
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:41 Page 104
SUMMER 2009 105
A new experience at the Channel Tunnel
with booking in and loading the bikes on the
train but oh so easy you wonder why any
one would use the ferry. A quick,
comfortable 20 mins followed and we were
soon on our way, ON THE WRONG SIDE
OF THE ROAD! Actually, riding along with
the others it felt O.K. A few miles in and I
was relaxing thinking this ain't so bad and,
as already stated with Pete & Jenny's
leading and young Richard doing an
excellent job as our tail ender, I soon felt
‘wow this is good’ (by Monday left hand
seemed wrong!). A quick stop for petrol and
a drink had us laughing and kidding around
like schoolboys along with a feeling of
excitement that I really think only comes
from being BIKERS, then onto the Biker
Loft.
First impressions being ‘well this is
different but looks good’. By the end of the
trip the place had become a home from
home and I don't think anyone wanted to
leave. A few points of note:-
1. Food - cook your own microwave
dinner. These proved to be tasty and plenty
of choice and amount.
2. Rooms basic but clean and tidy - all
we needed if somewhat prison looking what
with the metal staircase to the upper floor.
3. Entertainment none this week - but
hey we made our own which was spot on!
4. Showers - 1 block, open topped,
looking like a Mexicans home 2 sides
Boys/Girls, water long time to get the heat
through but once it was you were up and
running
5. Bar maid- lovely Vanessa
6 Bike park - inside in full view.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:41 Page 105
106 SUMMER 2009
The ride outs included trips to Brugge,
Dunkirk, Knokke Heist, Namur, Waterloo,
Ypres, Passondale - I also got lost in
Brussels but I do not want to talk about that.
Moments and events to ponder:
Erica and Gerald made a trip toChurch on Sunday, managing to singalong with the hymns in English whichmay well have got the locals thinking.
Maria became our champion poleclimber. Her man Richard was thendetermined to get to the top of this piece ofequipment I could not see the use for - wellseveral tries later up he went right to the top.
Ant showing young Richard how to getyour knee down on bends seems to havetaught him a thing or two.
Jim and Sue's travel stories keeping usentertained.
Erica's emotions at the Last Postceremony in Ypres bringing home the recenthistory of the area we were in, Erica sayingsorry for that but I think she has the nerve toshow openly what we all felt and indeedshould feel in such a place. Well done Ericafor that "we should never forget"
Young Richard showing his lack of abilityat the game of Pool, beaten by a novice oldduffer, me – oh how we laughed and took
the P.2.00 o'clock drinking by the
bikes with Richard, Maria andyoung Richard. The rain hittingthe roof - not sure it gets anybetter than that.
Riding along by the Canalheading for Brugge a bikingmoment of pure pleasure.
We returned home on Easter Monday
having experienced, great riding, good
laughs, inspiring sight's and most of all
GREAT COMPANY.
Coming out of my internal thoughts,
each time I was asked the above question at
work today I said;
"HAD A BLOODY GOOD TIME"
Colin
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:42 Page 106
SUMMER 2009 107
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Motorbike Indicator Sounding Device to save lives
A new device is now available for all bikers which will virtually eliminate potential
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All too often, bikers are injured or killed through motorists pulling out of junctions into
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Azonic Solutions, who have a proven track record of supplying reliable and functional
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Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:42 Page 107
108 SUMMER 2009
DDDDUUUUKKKKEEEE MMMMAAAARRRRKKKKEEEETTTTIIIINNNNGGGG
ONE DAY IN JUNE
The glorious return of one of motorcycle racing’s biggest names to the Isle of Man TT
is the stuff of legend, still one of the most talked about events at the fabled road race
more than three decades on. Now fans can once again relive the incredible return of
Mike Hailwood in the classic film One Day in June, at last available on DVD.
In 1978, multiple World Champion Hailwood returned to the iconic 37.73 mile TT
course, after a self-imposed 11 year absence from the world famous circuit. Few doubted
Hailwood still possessed the legendary skill which had brought him 12 TT wins, but a
comeback at 38, after more than a decade away, was still a daunting prospect.
With a fine handling, but under-powered Ducati V-Twin at his disposal, Mike the Bike
went headtohead with fellow great Phil Read, riding the much faster 4 cylinder Honda in
the opening race of the TT festival. Amazingly, Hailwood roared to victory in the Formula
One race. Fortunately a crew from Outrider Films was on hand to capture this historic
moment, and interviews with Hailwood himself as he explains how boredom with his ‘9-
5 lifestyle’ had brought him back to racing.
This classic film also includes footage from the Senior TT, where Hailwood raced a
Yamaha against legends like Pat Hennen and Tom Herron. In addition, this DVD includes
a bonus audio feature offering fans the chance to hear ‘Mike the Bike’ discuss a decade
of racing at the TT in the extraordinary Mike Hailwood: My First 10 TT Years. Recorded
at Hailwood’s London flat in 1968, this chat with Peter Arnold chronicles the highs and
lows of 10 years racing in the Isle of Man, from fresh-faced teenager to his apparent
retirement in 1967.
Digitally remastered from the original Stanley Schofield archive recording, Mike
Hailwood: My First 10 TT Years recalls the exhilarating battles, frustrations and
tremendous triumphs. It is a thrilling opportunity to discover how Hailwood managed to
stamp his authority on the event, and offers
revealing insight and first-hand accounts of
some of the most memorable races ever. The
soundtrack to the interview is provided by the
Hondas, MV Agustas and other glorious
machines that dominated the TT during
Hailwood's heyday, plus race commentary from
such luminaries as Murray Walker.
One Day in June is released 25 May 2009
on DVD, priced at £12.71 and will be available
from leading video outlets or direct from:
Duke Video:
Tel 01624 640 000,
Fax 01624 640 001
email - [email protected].
Visit www.dukevideo.com online.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:42 Page 108
SUMMER 2009 109
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DREMEL LEGO OFFER
Dremel has teamed up with the world-famous Lego brand to create a promotion that
kids and adults alike will love! The Lego Creator pack comes entirely free of charge -
attached to the packaging - with purchases of a Dremel 300 or 400 Digital multi-tool*.
The instant reward of the Lego Creator three-in-one pack means you can build a
monster truck, a fantasy sci-fi saloon car or your ultimate F1 driving machine as soon as
you get home!
The promotion runs until the end of August 2009.
Dremel multi-tools are used worldwide for creative, modelling and DIY tasks
including sanding, routing, polishing, drilling and cutting through all kinds of materials
thanks to Dremel's huge range of 150 different accessories.
The Lego promotion will run online at retailers such as:
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www.tool-shop.co.uk
www.dremel-direct.com
www.axminster.co.uk
PLEASE NOTE NEW DREMEL WEBSITE:
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* Participating products are the Dremel 300 Series (300-1/55) and the Dremel 400
Series Digital (400-4/80) multi-tools - priced around £58 and £93 respectively.
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:42 Page 109
110 SUMMER 2009
MMMMEEMMBBEERRSSEEMMBBEERRSS FFFFRREEEERREEEE AAAADDSSDDSSAdverts must be received by the 1st September for inclusion in the Autumn Issue. Email [email protected] to: Golden Wing, 232 Leigh Road, Chandlers Ford, Eastleigh, Hants. SO53 3AW
FOR SALE
HONDA CM125 1985
Restored in 2008New Seat Cover,
New Chain & SprocketNew Clutch Cable,
New BatteryNew Spark PlugsRe-sprayed Tank
£65001634 360227
HONDA 400/41976
BlueApprox 700 miles withproof. Fully serviced. Very good condition. 1 years MOT and tax
£3,30001493 722856Mike (15950)
Norfolk
ADS CAN BE POSTED FREE ON THE CLUB WEBSITE AT
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ADVERTISING
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must state membership
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Carl
Golden Wing Summer 2009.qxp 11/07/2009 19:42 Page 110
SUMMER 2009 117
Tail LightsTail Lights
Motorcycle Rider the BMF magazine would like to carry
"Classic Owner Reports"
on early machines.
So if you own a classic Honda
and would like to see you and your Honda in the BMF magazine.
Please contact
Johnathan Lloyd - Assistant Editor
01652 680060
CLASSIC OWNERS REPORTS
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