Motorcycling has long been associated with freedom, adventure, and rebellion. And while the image of a biker is often male-dominated, women have been hitting the road for over a century, proving that motorcycling isn’t just for the guys. From fearless pioneers to modern-day racers, women have played a huge role in shaping the motorcycling world. Let’s take a ride through history and celebrate the women who’ve made their mark on two wheels!
Early Trailblazers: Women Who Broke the Mold
Long before motorcycling became mainstream, women were already proving their place on the road. One of the earliest examples is Effie Hotchkiss, who, in 1915, rode across the U.S. with her mother, Avis, making them the first women to complete a transcontinental motorcycle trip. They tackled rough roads and mechanical challenges, but their adventurous spirit never wavered.
A year later, Augusta and Adeline Van Buren set out on an epic 5,500-mile ride across America. Their mission? To prove that women could serve as military dispatch riders during World War I. Despite facing discrimination—including being arrested for wearing pants—they completed their journey and became legends in the process.
Fast forward to the 1960s, and you’ll find Mary McGee, a true pioneer in racing. She became the first woman to compete in motorcycle road racing in the U.S., later transitioning to off-road racing, where she dominated the competition. Her passion paved the way for many female racers today.
Fast forward to today, and women are not just participating in motorcycling—they’re thriving! Whether it’s on the track, on long-distance road trips, or performing jaw-dropping stunts, female riders are proving they belong.
Take Laia Sanz, for example. She’s one of the most successful female riders in off-road racing, competing in the grueling Dakar Rally and leaving male competitors in the dust. Or Ashley Lammela, a professional stunt rider who showcases incredible skills and inspires thousands of women to ride.
Beyond the world of racing and stunts, there’s been a huge movement toward women’s motorcycling communities. Groups like Women Riders World Relay (WRWR) and The Litas have connected thousands of female riders worldwide, offering support, camaraderie, and a space to share their passion for motorcycles
2WheelBabes have Babe Raid in Australia. (CHECK THEM OUT HERE) What began in 2008 with just 110 women who shared a love for motorcycles has grown into something truly incredible. Over the past decade, with 24 events and more than 4,000 attendees, women from all over Australia—and even beyond—have come together to be part of this movement.
Credit: Babe Raid
It’s a celebration of women who love motorcycles, whether they ride, ride as a pillion, or simply admire the passion and community. From scooters to quad bikes, everyone is welcome to join in and be part of the excitement!
Women have not only made their mark in racing and adventure riding but have also contributed to making motorcycling more inclusive. Many female riders advocate for safety, awareness, and education, ensuring the roads are welcoming for everyone.
Motorcycle manufacturers have also taken notice, with brands now designing bikes and gear tailored for female riders. The industry is evolving, thanks to the growing number of women who refuse to be left out.
The Road Ahead
The number of women on motorcycles is increasing every year, and that’s something worth celebrating! Whether it’s racing, touring, or just cruising for the love of it, female riders are redefining what it means to be a motorcyclist.
Me at Lake Tekapo, New Zealand.
So, here’s to the women who ride—past, present, and future. Keep twisting that throttle, chasing adventure and inspiring generations to come!
I had hardly any idea what Nitro Bike Drag Racing was about before I did some research.
I knew it involved two awesome, very out of this world looking, cool bikes lined up at a drag strip and when the light goes green, well yup, off they go….in a burst of flames….into the distance….to see who is the fastest.
It wasn’t until a good friend of mine, Gary McGuinness, said that his brother had his own drag race team, Blattt Racing and yes, that is Blattt with a triple t, that I wanted to know more. Not just about the bikes themselves but also why one decides to take on, what I thought, was a hugely dangerous sport. Sooo I sent Wayne McGuinness, Gary’s brother, some interview questions which are included in the bottom of this article.
First of all “What is Nitro Bike Drag Racing?”
“Motorcycle drag racing (also known as “Sprints”) involves two participants lining up at a dragstrip with a signaled starting line. Upon the starting signal, the riders accelerate down a 1⁄4 mile (0.40 km) long, two lane, straight paved track where their elapsed time and terminal speed are recorded. The rider to reach the finish line first is the winner. The best-known form of motorcycle drag racing is the Pro Stock Bike category, although several other categories exist, including 1,000 horsepower (750 kW) nitromethane engine.[ Motorcycles in the Top Fuel category are fueled by nitro methane and can make nearly 1,500 horsepower.[1]:116 From a standing start they can cover the first 60 feet in less than a second and can reach 200 mph in less than eighth-mile or 660 feet.”
This is the American version, but Gary was saying in Australia it is a bit different. Here, we don’t call them “Sprints” and the lanes aren’t paved but are still professionally prepared. But other than that it pretty much explains it in layman’s terms.
Credit: Blattt Racing
It obviously does take a special type of person to race these monsters. Which brings me back to Blattt Racing…….
Blattt racing comprises of Wayne McGuinness who owns, runs and races Blattt Racing and brother Gary McGuinness who was Pit Crew but now has his racing license and at one stage was the fastest Aussie in the US in nitro bike class under Pro Fuel. Wayne also won a Wally for Nitro Harley’s and this is the highest award in USA drag racing AND has broken one Australian and one American track record. Wayne also currently holds the track record in Nitro bike in Australia at Perth Motorplex which is a motorsport venue located at Kwinana Beach, Western Australia.
Gary and Wayne McGuinness Credit: Blattt Racing
Wow! Why haven’t we heard about these guys
The McGuinness’s hail from Kwinana which is approximately 39 km’s south of Perth and is the home of Blattt Racing. Blattt Racing consists of a new HRP built Nitro Pro Dragster to run in the new ANDRA Nitro Bike class, added to the 2014 schedule to accommodate for these bikes. Also in the camp there is a 151ci Pro Gas Harley, that has top qualified in MB/A, and currently runs 8.03 times, a Dodge Challenger and a Dodge Charger.
Wayne McGuinness Credit: Blattt Racing
This Australian owned racing business is privately funded so they don’t really have sponsors as such. Wayne’s good friend Clyde from Bravo Resources in O’Connor, does all the Team’s machining work but they are looking for a major sponsor.
Unfortunately, Wayne needs to work away to be able to support the running of the Team, but you can tell by the photos of his bikes, the awards that they have won, records they have broken and the passion in the answers to the interview questions that there is no doubt this Team has the guts, balls and determination to succeed in this Nitro World.
I encourage anyone to check out Blattt Racing and contact Wayne McGuinness just to see how committed he and the whole team are to their Nitro Racing. The stats don’t lie.
Check out Blattt Racing’s facebook page here: Blattt Racing.
I am heading over to WA in July and will be catching up with Blattt Racing. Sooo, I have organised to interview them and to have a close up with the bikes. I will be doing a vlog and also bringing you race dates as they arise.
Now check out my interview with Wayne. There are still so many good stories that Wayne and Gary have told me and just not enough space here to share but I am so excited for them. Their future looks bright and will look even brighter with a major sponsor. If you think this is a business you would like to support, check out Blattt Racing facebook page, get in contact and support this committed Australian team.
Gary McGuinness Credit: Blattt Racing
INTERVIEW WITH BLATTT RACING
1. How many nitro bikes do you have? I currently have 2 Nitro bikes, One Injected and One Carbureted.
2. How long have you been riding? I started riding bikes from about the age of 6, was on a QA50 Honda.
3. When did you start motorbike racing? Started racing as a Road Racing Sidecar passenger about 25 years ago, the bike was handmade by an old guy, who was the driver for the first year, then he retired so I purchased the bike from him and continued to race it for about 5 seasons, winning the WA title for 4 years in succession, plus racing in the Australian titles and Kings of the West round the houses series, I also had a few seasons with different sponsored bikes that people were trying to sell, so I would race the bikes, win races and prove the bikes were good, so they would sell.
After a few seasons, everyone had stepped up with performance, and a few rule changes to coincide with the World Formula 1 Sidecar rules that engine / tyres and rims could be bigger, I decided to stop racing, due to the extra expense of all the changes needed to be competitive, having 3 engines to modify and all the rims and tyres combo’s we used to run was way too expensive.
So after more than 10 years away from the Sidecar Road racing, I decided to try racing in the Thunderbike series on a 998R Ducati, that was fun for a while, had a huge highside and made me think about injury time and not being able to work, so stopped racing and decided to go Skydiving instead!
4. What made you decide this was what you wanted to do? I got to the stage after 6 years of Skydiving and 5 years as an Instructor, with a bit of BASE jumping around the world, it was time for a change.
5. How did you get into it? I was at work, looking at a website that had all types of cars for sale (Racejunk.com) and seen a 1998 Dodge Charger drag car for sale, so enquired about it, guy lived in Nth Carolina, and this is when the Aussie dollar was $1.10usd, I said I would buy it, which this guy didn’t believe someone from Oz would buy a car sight unseen, and ship it all the way? But after some convincing, he knew I was genuine. So, I called my brother Gaz, told him we’re going Drag racing!!!
After a season with the car, and from the same website I noticed a Pro-Gas Harley drag bike for sale, no one was running one of these bikes in Oz (Thinking they were slow) so bought that and started running in Perth, started running good times (8.30 without turning the Nitrous on, 7.63 on Nitrous) this bike had won the 2002 American Pro-Gas championship with Tom Bradford owning it, bike is a killer (Currently for sale, with spare engine) so made everyone take notice!
After two seasons on the Gas bike, heard of a guy in the states (Johnny Vickers, Hawaya Racing) that was making Carburetted Nitro Bikes, so enquired about the bikes and the costs and how reliable they are (up to 200 passes with minimal maintenance) decided to purchase one, head over to the States race there and then bring it back to Perth and race here, also another two Perth guys had gotten Johnny to build bikes for them, one was an Injected Nitro bike the other was a Carburetted bike like the one I had built.
So, after completing a 2-day Nitro bike school at Rockingham Raceway in Nth Carolina, I got my 6.90 AMRA drag licence and entered for the Jim McClure Nationals, also run at the same track that w/end. Ended up qualifying 3rd out of 20 of the top guys in the States for the class (Pro Fuel in the states, Nitro Bike here in Oz) and made it to the semi’s first time out on the bike!
After the meeting we crated the bike up and sent it back to Perth. Les Holden, who also has a carburetted bike like mine was the main guy to get a new class (Nitro bike) started here in Oz.
I ran the bike here in Oz under the Nitro Bike class, but the changed to Top Fuel Bike class to run against the bigger bikes. 2014, I took Gaz back to the States for his 50th. He had entered the Nitro bike school run by Johnny Vickers, there he qualified for his licence as well and completed in the same event I had the year before, for a brief moment he was the fastest Aussie in USA and run well in the event.
After he left the States, I went to Bristol Raceway in Tennessee, to race in the NRHA Bristol Nationals, which I ended up winning and setting a new track record. First Aussie to win a Wally (Highest award in USA drag racing) for Nitro Harleys.
Credit: Life and Motorbikes
6. Where do you want to go next and what are your future goals for nitro racing? Well, now I am running a 2-bike team with Gaz riding one bike, we obviously want to win all the events and set new records in Oz, taking out an Australian Championship would be great! Even an event with Gaz and myself 1st and 2nd would be great!
7. Where do you race and what is your favourite track? Usually race at Perth Motorplex, but also raced in Darwin, Hidden Valley. My favourite would have to be the Bristol track in Tennessee.
8. What would you say to people who think you are crazy? Try it, you might like it. Peoples conception of Crazy differs!!!!!
9. What speeds do the bikes reach? Bikes are capable of 230mph to 250mph.
10. You would go through a lot of tyres. How many races do you get before you have to change them? Depends on how you treat them, but usually 25 runs out of a tyre.
11. Do you have a mechanic on standby? Hah, yeah Me!!!!
12. Nitro racing isn’t that big in Australia, how big is it in US? You’ll be amazed how big it is here in Oz, if we get everyone together for a major meeting, we are not that far behind the States, we roughly have 13 to 16 Top Fuel Bikes here, States approx 20 regular runners. It’s just so hard and expensive to run all the events and a lot of the guys only do certain events, and a lot have had to take time out from the sport lately. But it is on the increase again, despite the low numbers recently at events.
13. How often have you been to US? I spent the past 5 years going back and forth, was trying to get a green card and move over there for the racing 2 years ago, but very hard with their economic state.
14. Have you raced in any other countries? I raced in the States as mentioned and I have also completed in Skydiving and BASE-Jumping tournaments all around the world, USA, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, Italy, France, Malaysia.
15. Where are you situated? I live in Perth, Western Australia.
16. What material is your outfit made out of? Bikes frames are constructed of Chrome Moly, the engines are all Billet Aluminium, lots of Carbon Fibre stuff.
17. How many members of the team are there? Usually 4, but with the new bike added, we are currently looking for new crew, could use at least 3 more on the team. Anyone interested, see me at the track in Perth, Blattt Racing.
18. How many awards have you won? Lots over the years!
19. How many records have you broken? 1 Australian and 1 American.
20. What are the specs of the bikes you race? 1st Nitro bike is 120ci” carburettor, 2nd Nitro bike is 175ci” Injected, and the 3rd bike is 140ci” naturally aspirated bike with a spare 160ci” engine.
21. How safe is it and how does your family feel when you race? Top Fuel Bike racing is as safe as you want it to be! If you don’t respect these machines they can, and will bite you!!! Hard. But saying that, if you obey all the rules with Nitromethane, they are a safe bike to race. Family loves it? Actually, I’ve never asked. LOL
22. What advice would you give to people who are interested in competing in nitro racing? Obey the rules of Nitro, seek advice, and listen!!!!!!
23. Are there many women racers? There are quite a few racing at the moment, The fastest woman on the planet over the quarter mile, is our own Sydney girl Niki Zakrzewski, she just recently ran a 6.409 @ 207.50mph in the States.
24. Do you have sponsors? Who are they? And are you looking for more? I don’t actually have any sponsors as such. I have one of my good friends Clyde who does all my machining work, Bravo Resources is his business. Sponsors for me is very hard to obtain, the reason is that I have to work away to be able to afford to run these bikes, and as such I don’t like to take people’s money or products as I can’t always guarantee that I will make a race event to promote them.
Having said that, if a major sponsor, or sponsors would like to take on the role to support the team, I would gladly give up work and run every event on the Australian ANDRA and IHRA 400 Thunder series events.
24. What is your average reaction time when the light goes green? That varies a little, but usually about 0.120th of a second, good days, 0.050th of a second.
25. Do you know what the G Force is when pulling away? About 3 G’s
26. Is there anything else you would like to share or include that I have missed? Can’t think of anything, apart from anyone welcome to come and join us in the pits and hangout, see how these monster machines operate. They’re a piece of angry fun machinery!!!
WOW!
I can’t wait to see these monsters in action and to feel the passion leading up to the racing. I can picture the stress, sweat and smell the sweet smell of raging power. As I mentioned I will be heading over to Perth in July and I will bring you a video of the behind the scenes “stuff” that we normally don’t get to see. I AM excited!
Till next time. Stay upright.
LJ
Why be part of the Life and Motorbikes Team?
Be part of the Life and Motorbikes team and register for our newsletter.
Why? I hear you ask. ( I know I would ask!)
First: 10% off first purchase in our shop. (More products in the negotioation stages).
Second: Notification of new blog posts to read.
As we are a new business, we are in the process of sourcing discounts on motorcycle friendly accommodation, eateries, accessories etc.
There are also a whole lot of ideas that are waiting to come to fruition, but they are still in the planning stage. So will keep you up to date with them too.
Last thing! We won’t spam you….we are too busy riding. We will just send newsletters when there is something that will interest you. AND if you really don’t want newsletters anymore then it is easy to unsubscribe…but why would you?
So fill in the newsletter form to the right to join our team.
Motorbike tyres that is! Soooo I booked my beautiful motorbike, the 2013 Harley-Davidson 1200cc XL, into Sunshine Coast Harley-Davidson for a service and a check over the other day cos it was still playing up. If you read my last blog on “The Keith Buckley Memorial Tunnel Run”, then you will know about my surging bike. Anyway it was still not right even after I put the special fuel stuff in the tank. Thankfully they found the problem and it was the regulator.
Anyway back to the tyres… The ever smiling Rick looked at me and said “you need a new back tyre”. I was surprised because I am normally careful with my tyres, but when I thought about it, it was then I realised and thought, WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME I CHECKED MY TYRES????
You need to check your tyres EVERY time you take your bike out. You don’t know if you picked up a slow puncture from your last ride, you don’t know if the pressure is low. There are so many reasons to check them. Your safety, if not your life depends on the tyres being in good condition!
I did some research and came up with these nuggets of information in what to look for.
First of all, this is what is underneath the rubber of a motorbike tyre.
CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK
5 Signs That Indicate You Need To Change Your Tyres!
1. Wear –
This is the most common sign you need to change your tyre. The manufacturer has put wear indicators which looks like little triangles or bumps at the bottom of the main grooves. Once the wear gets down to this level, then the tyre has reached it’s legal limit and you need to replace the tyre. Not only is it illegal to ride on an over-worn tyre but the grip and performance is drastically reduced, especially in wet weather.
CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK
2. Unusual Treadwear –
If you find the wear of the tyre threads localised in certain places, this can be the result of a mechanical problem such as worn shock absorber, transmission or a balance issue. Get a professional mechanic to check it out. Riding on incorrect tyre pressure can also be to blame.
3. Cupping or scalping of the front tyre –
This is when the tyre gets worn out along the length of the tread and once this has happened, can affect handling and stablility. Scalping can also mean poor suspension, so get it checked out when replacing the tyre.
4. Splits, cuts and punctures –
Tyres are durable to withstand heaps of bumps and lumps, but of course sometimes they get a puncture. To me, if a tyre has had too many punctures or has cuts and splits in it, then it makes sense to change it. Who wants to risk a blow out? If you do develop cracking along the sidewalls (commonly known as dry rot), the tyre needs to be replaced immediately.
CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK
5. Age –
I read in a few articles that we shouldn’t be riding on tyres over 5 yrs old. I had never heard of that one, but I guess it makes sense. Over time and use, tyres become hard and brittle due to the oxygen interacting with compounds in the rubber. This is a process called oxidation. I remember when I bought a 1998 Triumph America. It had 6,000 kms on the clock and was in awesome condition as it had been sitting in a garage for I don’t know how long. The tyre tread was fine, but the rubber was hard as rock so I had to replace both tyres. What a difference in riding! There is also a date code in an oval stamp on your tyre’s sidewall. The numbers represent the week and year of manufacture.
CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK
CONCLUSION
1. Tyre pressure should be checked cold every time you go riding because as soon as you start riding the tyres warm up and the internal pressure rises. When you check your tyres and they are already warm from riding, you get a false pressure reading.
2. Look for cuts, damage, unusual wear, impact damage, cracks, know the age of your tyres by checking the date on the side wall of your tyre.
3. Don’t just check the tread, also check the side of the tyres and the rim.
LOOK AFTER YOUR TYRES!
Conditions of storage, inflation pressure, speed, load, the way you ride and climate are all factors that play a part in the life of a tyre and your safety depends on your motorbike tyres being in good condition.
As Rick said to me, your life could depend on it. Well actually he said “if you had kept riding on this tyre for much longer you would have died”! Same thing really, but he certainly made his point and I WILL be checking my tyres regularly.
Oh and don’t forget when you get your new tyres you should ride cautiously for the first 100 km’s or so until the entire tread surface gets scuffed up.
Tyre manufacturers use a release compound when making tyres in order to be certain they will come out of the tyre mold and it is an oilyish substance.
Some tyre manufacturers will put an additional coating on tyres to help prolong their “shelf-life”. Also an oilyish substance.
Lubes are used in the process of getting tyres on and off the rim.
Just pays to be cautious!
Blown Tyre – Check this link here to read what you should do if you do ever get a blown tyre. It could save your life.
Righto, I am off now to scuff up my tyre now the rain has temporarily stopped. So have a great weekend, but before you do, check those tyres!
Stay Upright
LJ
Why be part of the Life and Motorbikes Team?
Be part of the Life and Motorbikes team and register for our newsletter.
Why? I hear you ask. ( I know I would ask!)
First: 10% off first purchase in our shop. (More products in the negotioation stages).
Second: Notification of new blog posts to read.
As we are a new business, we are in the process of sourcing discounts on motorcycle friendly accommodation, eateries, accessories etc.
There are also a whole lot of ideas that are waiting to come to fruition, but they are still in the planning stage. So will keep you up to date with them too.
Last thing! We won’t spam you….we are too busy riding. We will just send newsletters when there is something that will interest you. AND if you really don’t want newsletters anymore then it is easy to unsubscribe…but why would you?
So fill in the newsletter form to the right to join our team.
What a wonderful day it was and for a great cause. The fun event was raising money for Safe Haven who is a not-for-profit charity and helps women and children to escape domestic abuse. I have included the link for anyone who feel they may want/need to check them out. Click here…
The threat of the weather fortunately didn’t keep everyone away. I believe it would have been huge if that pesky threat wasn’t there. But it is Queensland…lol
The day started off with me picking up my mate Dave and heading to Monte Alehouse in Slacks Creek where the event was being held.
I love this place. I had never been or heard of this place before but I can tell you they have the nicest staff with great customer service, the best food (at ridiculously good prices) and speaking to the Owner Tom and Manager Michael was like talking to people you had known for years.
It was a fantastic day of seeing some absolutely stunning paintwork (from Deathwish Customs), meeting great people and listening to some great music courtesy of Haylee Coulter.
There were also the Deathwish girls and the Jack Daniels (one of the major sponsors) girls, selling raffle tickets. The prizes were amazing. I won one of the Jack Daniels prizes which was a 4 pack of JD, T-Shirt and cap. But there were Harley Davidson packs raffled off, $1000.00 vouchers and $500.00 prize for airbrushing, etc, etc. The incredible prizes seemed endless.
BUT the reason we were all there was to see the bikes and cars. As well as to support Deathwish Customs and this wonderful charity.
Deathwish Customs who is Marcus Gautiere (and has agreed for an interview…thank you), Candyman and the team have built up a reputation for excellence and to see their work first hand and the detail that goes into it is breathtaking. Pictures just don’t do their work justice.
I also met Shaun, Dave and Justin from DB Kustomz. Thanks for the chat. Fun, crazy bunch of dudes who have a story I want to share. I will be going to interview them in the next few weeks about what they have been up to and their new nitro bike. So look out for that. See you at Dust Hustle guys.
Shaun, Dave & Justin
All in all it was a fantastic day and Deathwish Customs were able to hand over $1,700.00 to Safe Haven which is a fantastic effort. If you get a chance to go to the next Deathwish event, set the date and go. Awesome bunch of people.
Be part of the Life and Motorbikes team and register for our newsletter.
Why? I hear you ask. ( I know I would ask!)
First: 10% off first purchase in our shop. (More products in the negotioation stages).
Second: Notification of new blog posts to read.
As we are a new business, we are in the process of sourcing discounts on motorcycle friendly accommodation, eateries, accessories etc.
There are also a whole lot of ideas that are waiting to come to fruition, but they are still in the planning stage. So will keep you up to date with them too.
Last thing! We won’t spam you….we are too busy riding. We will just send newsletters when there is something that will interest you. AND if you really don’t want newsletters anymore then it is easy to unsubscribe…but why would you?
So fill in the newsletter form to the right to join our team.
Charity Cruise for Tamati Brown and Nesian_Famz Annual Christmas Event
Sunday December 5 2021
Hosted by Nesian_Famz, sponsored by Q Legal Lawyers.
Hawaiian theme outfits.
Last Sunday the Nesian_Famz Social Club, organised their annual Christmas event in conjunction with a charity Cruise for TAMATI BROWN.
Who is Tamati?
Tamati Brown is a 3 yr old warrior who has fought and continues to fight brain cancer called Desmo Plastic Infantile Ganglioma Astrocytoma.
Credit:Te Aukaha Maori Performing Arts
Tamati was diagnosed at the age of 7 months after his parents, Temica and Ricky called on “Ryans Rule”. This rule can be used if patients, carers, families or guardians feel that the symptoms are getting worse and they aren’t being listened to.
Little Tama has had numerous surgeries which has caused paralysis down his right side and a bad stroke. He then needed 12 months of chemotherapy and is now having intensive phyiotherapy and speech therapy.
There is no cure for Tamati as his tumour is wrapped around his pituitary gland. Surgery isn’t an option as it would result in complete loss of all movement and loss of all sight.
Tamati is now 3 years old and it has been recently discovered that his cancer is growing again. Just heartbreaking.
This is how the day went and here are some photos from this awesome day.
Credit: Life and Motorbikes
Our group rode to meet up with everyone else at Loganholme where Q Legal Lawyers were cooking up a storm to feed many, many mouths.
There were so many different bikes, cars and trucks all there for the same cause and it was wonderful.
Credit: Life and Motorbikes
We all then took off in a convoy to Advancetown Hotel where there were plenty of activities for the kids, prize raffles and an awesome live band, OneSound Band that got the place rocking. All funds raised was donated to Tamati’s cause.
Gasolene Alley Harley Davidson in Springwood also donated Gift Bags to raffle off.
Credit: Life and Motorbikes
Video of the actual ride was taken by Jess and Tracey Kiikoro.
It really was an amazing day and the look on Tama’s face when the bikes, cars and trucks were sounding their horns and revving their engines was priceless.
Credit: Life and Motorbikes.
Te Aukaha Maori Performing Arts group put on some impressive performances. An absolute pleasure to watch.
Can’t forget the staff at Advancetown Hotel as they were so amazing. Happy, friendly and joined in the spirit of the day.
So many people helped to make this day a day to remember and a total of $9000+ was raised.
Thank you Nesian_Famz for organising and hosting this event . It was an honour to be a part of this day.
Credit: Life and Motorbikes
Here is another video of the day created by Joseph Adams-Walsh.
This is what we do. This is part of the Bikers world, helping and supporting people. It is very hard to explain if you don’t know. We are all one people.
Our heartfelt love and prayers go out to Tamati and the Brown family and we, as part of the biking community will be there whenever you need us.
I had heard so much about Smoked Garage Brisbane the last couple of years and I knew I would always get there at some stage to check it out. I thought it was just a motorcycle themed restaurant/bar. Boy was I wrong! It is so much more.
Shop front of Smoked Garage Brisbane
Last Friday night, 17 July 2020, Smoked Garage reopened to the public so I thought what better time to go and visit and see for myself.
We arrived at about 6pm hoping for a meal and we parked in a secure parking just up the street as we weren’t aware that there was parking behind Smoked Garage in Little Street.
Cool decor
Wow! It is a 3 level, 100+ year old building with a fully functioning workshop in the basement, showroom and café/bar/kitchen on the ground level and I am not sure if this is completed yet but a function space on the top level.
There is actually a Barber in there too, The Stray Cat Barber.
Entrance to Smoked Garage Brisbane
The staff were definitely following the safety protocols for Covid and we were unfortunately unable to eat there. I absolutely advise to book before you come if you are wanting food. I have heard rumours that the food is pretty awesome.
As I was editing the photos I noticed that they sell Smokehead Whisky! I can’t wait to go back and try that! I did an article on a collaboration of Smokehead Whisky and Tyler Lunceford. Smokehead challenged Tyler to create ‘The Smoker’, a one of a kind, customised, vintage racer inspired Ducati.
There was also a two piece band playing, Sunflower and the atmosphere was relaxing and welcoming. The music was perfect for the night. Both Lawson Doyal and Kahlia Furguson were perfect for the ambiance of the night.
Royal Enfield
You can tell the owners love motorcycles and Smoked Garage specialise in designing and building custom motorcycles. They do everything from complete builds to cosmetic work and everything in between.
Vintage Bike
Vintage Bike
• Eg. Frame / bodywork modification and fabrication • Electrical • Mechanical • Upholstery • Paint • Custom Made Parts • Bolt on Parts
Welcome back to Part 4 of our Motorcycle Trip through New Zealand – Burt Munro Challenge
If you missed Part 1, 2 and 3 of our trip through New Zealand, click here…
7.2.19
Recap….Ashley went to meet his friend Deb and the rest of us carried on to see the classic Hill Climb Championships at Bluff Hill/Motupohue, Bluff.
The race is just over a km long and climbs to a height of 265m above sea level with spectacular views over Foveaux Straight and the Southland Plains.
Could not believe how close we were to the start of the race!
Start of the Hill Climb Race
Once we climbed up the Hill, the view was absolutely incredible.
Bike racing up Bluff Hill/Motupohue.
I am putting together some of the video of the whole trip, so once I have finished that, I will add the link here.
After we watched the Hill Climb, we went to E Hayes & Sons Hardware and Homeware Store. I have never seen any other store like it!
They have a Motorworks Collection in the store which is the home of Munro’s original “World’s Fastest Indian Motorcycle”.
Burt Munro’s World Fastest Indian
In 1977 Burt suffered a stroke and sold his machines to his good friend, Norman Hayes. That is how it is sitting in E Hayes & Sons Store.
E Hayes Store also houses classic motorcycles, automobiles and engines.
E. Hayes & Sons, Invercargill
What an absolutely magnificent store and this private collection is free to see! We spent ages in this store. Mind blowing!
If you have a passion for motorcycles then this must go on your bucket list.
8.2.19
Today was the Beach Racing and as there were sooooo many bikes in town Sue and I went pillion again.
We actually got to park on the beach and again the day was perfect!
Oreti Beach
Lee Munro, Munro’s great grand nephew, was riding the Spirit of Munro on Oreti Beach as a tribute. This is the same beach that Burt Munro tested his Indian Scout all those years ago.
Lee Munro’s Bike
9.2.19
Rest day for me today.
10.2.19
This is the day that everyone took off to the West of the South Island and I had decided to stay a while longer with my new found friend Deb.
So we all went to see the Burt Munro Statue to farewell each other off.
Burt Munro Statue
I really wanted to watch the Street Racing. We had done close to 4,000kms in two weeks and I wanted to stop and see more sights other than the roads before I left. This was my first time to New Zealand.
The street racing was fantastic. I can’t believe how close you can get to the bikes.
Street Race
Burt Challenge 2019 Events.
• Southland Honda Have A Go Day • Classic Motorcycle Mecca NZ Hill Climb Champs • HIrepool Twightlight Drag Racing • Indian Motorcycle NZ Beach Racing Champs • E Hayes & Sons Teretonga Sprint Races • Sievwright Oreti Park Speedway • Honda Invercargill Street Races
I would love to have seen the Twilight Drag Racing and the Speedway but unfortunately we couldn’t fit it all in.
The whole atmosphere in Invercargill during this time was “party” and we met so many wonderful people.
Seriously, put it on your “List Of Things To Do In New Zealand” if you love motorbikes.
I knew New Zealand was going to be beautiful, but I never realised how much I was going to love it.
Nothing beats going on holidays with your mates and experiencing new adventures, especially by motorbike AND to experience the atmosphere which is The Burt Munro Challenge.
Burt Munro (no copyright infringement is intended)
If you haven’t been to New Zealand, I certainly recommend you do.
CONCLUSION
I WILL be back to continue riding. There was so much to do and see, though we did manage to pack a lot of it in.
Next time I will spend more time in checking out places. Ya can’t do it all in one trip.
I also need to say a huge thank you to Ashley Gill and Mario Papasidero for organising my bike, otherwise I would never have been able to make the trip. As well as Bryan Barnsley, Michael Eglington, Sue Stewart and Jason MacDonald for the friendship and companionship. Thank You!
I also can’t go without saying thank you to Lew, Ash’s cousin for his wonderful hospitality.
Last but definitely not least, to Debbie Henderson a bit thank you for your hospitality and friendship.
It was a trip of a lifetime and one which I will never forget.
Thank you for letting me show you our trip and I hope you enjoyed reading about our little jaunt over the Land Of The Long White Cloud.
Smokehead Islay Single Malt Whisky has teamed up with Tyler Lunceford over the past nine months to build a one-of-a-kind, customised Ducati, inspired by vintage motorcycles. The time has come to reveal ‘The Smoker’.
If you haven’t read our post introducing Tyler Lunceford and Smokehead Whisky, you can find that here.
The expertly crafted motorcycle will be unveiled to media, trade and bike fanatics on 12th November in London at The Bike Shed, Shoreditch.
CREDIT – John Need
Hosting the evening will be bike blogger Motobob who will run a Q&A with Tyler, while custom motorcycle helmet designer Piers Dowell paints two Smokehead helmets live on the night. Bike fans will enjoy video footage of the creation of The Smoker, including the final video of the bike on the open road.
Mind-blowing cocktails made with Smokehead, Smokehead High Voltage and Smokehead Sherry Bomb will be served throughout the night, including The Smoker serve, created exclusively for the project – a robust mix of Smokehead, lemon juice, honey syrup, ginger liqueur, a pinch of activated charcoal, shaken over ice and strained into a rocks glass, garnished with crystallised ginger.
The Bike Shed Motorcycle Club is a collective who celebrate bike builders, riders and fans, and is one of the UK’s best-known venues for customised motorcycles.
CREDIT: John Need
US born Lunceford of North Motorcycles is a renowned global biking sensation (known as the Ducati Whisperer of the New York tri-state) with over 20 years experience customising bikes for obsessive bikers and rock stars. He owned a workshop in Brooklyn but recently relocated to Edinburgh, Scotland to raise a family, and this is where he crafted The Smoker.
Commenting on the partnership with Smokehead and the finished bike: “Smokehead’s support of unique craftsmen and women resonated with me immediately. Building a customised bike is an incredible process. And it’s a slow process. Notching, welding, grinding, every single detail needs to be accounted for. I wanted to make sure this bike was phenomenal before unleashing it.
“I wanted to make a bike for the street, something that’s comfortable, with a really vintage appeal. This isn’t a bike that’s going to be polished and put in a museum.
CREDIT: John Need
“Smokehead whisky is not for everyone and neither is The Smoker – it’s bold, it’s intimidating and it’s loud. It’s really loud. It attracts a certain crowd. It’s certainly not for everyone. I can’t wait for the unveiling at The Bike Shed.”
Adding his thoughts, Iain Weir, Smokehead Brand Director, said: “We’re overwhelmed with how The Smoker has turned out. Tyler has exceeded expectations and created something incredible for Smokehead. Just like our whisky, The Smoker is bold, daring, independent and most importantly, not for everyone.”
CREDIT: Smokehead Whisky
The Smokehead Refinery
The campaign shares stories of partnerships with the boldest of craftsmen and women that Smokehead is proud to rub shoulders with. Chapter 1 of the project was unleashed in 2018, a successful partnership with Dram & Smoke creating a series of ‘Smokehead Feasts’ for media and trade across the UK. Chapter 2 celebrates the collaboration with Tyler.
In late 2018, Smokehead released Sherry Bomb, a heavily peated Islay single malt that has been boldly blasted by sherry casks; following hot on the heels of Smokehead High Voltage, along with their louder and bolder look, which was unveiled in April.
*Smokehead encourages everyone to drink responsibly. Do not drink and ride, obviously*
My Say:
Wow, what a bike! At first I was a little hesitant about the shape of the tank. Loved the rest of the bike, but wasn’t sure about the lines of the tank.
The more I looked at the bike though, the more I saw that it is unquestionably a perfect fit for Smokehead Whisky and now I can’t see it any other way. What a fantastic looking bike.
Great bike Tyler and well done. You did good!
Now we just have to wait to hear the beast ROAR!
Watch this space………
Don’t forget to see Part 1 of the collaboration of Smokehead Whisky and Tyler Lunceford if you missed it…click here.
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Why? I hear you ask. ( I know I would ask!)
First: 10% off first purchase in our shop. (More products in the negotiation stages).
Second: Notification of new blog posts to read.
As we are a new business, we are in the process of sourcing discounts on motorcycle friendly accommodation, eateries, accessories etc.
There are also a whole lot of ideas that are waiting to come to fruition, but they are still in the planning stage. So will keep you up to date with them too.
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Sponsored Post by BikeBandit. BikeBandit sells quality motorcycle parts, apparel, and accessories through an online store.
If you’re getting ready to buy a naked bike, you’re in for a great experience.
Naked bikes are versatile street motorcycles that are extremely affordable. They’re also generally cheaper to maintain than other road bikes.
Many beginning riders choose to purchase naked bikes because they don’t require a lot of skill or strength to control. They are lightweight and keep riders in an upright position that’s somewhere between the forward-leaning pitch sport bikes require and the reclined posture of a cruiser.
Many riders choose to wear dirt bike riding gear with their naked bikes. If you’re wondering what helmet to buy, here’s a quick helmet guide.
Half Helmets (Brain Buckets)
Many naked motorcycle riders prefer half helmets over other helmet types. They are also known as brain buckets and offer minimal coverage.
Since the naked bike is all about minimalism, a half helmet complements it well. Half helmets offer an iconic, vintage look that captures the essence of motorcycling freedom.
What they lack in overall protection they make up for in comfort and looks. If you’re planning on taking a high-speed ride, a more substantial helmet can give you peace of mind. But if you frequently cruise the streets on your naked bike, a half helmet such as the Sena Cavalary may be all the protection you want or need.
Sena Cavalry Half Helmet
Full Face Helmets
When it comes to maximizing the speed of your naked bike, purchasing lightweight cheap motorcycle clothing and accessories is essential.
While some helmets can feel a bit bulky and heavy, wearing a carbon fiber helmet is almost like wearing air. Helmets like the LS2 Citation Carbon Fiber Helmet come with an aerodynamic design that minimizes air friction at both high and low speeds.
The shield is also scratch, fog and UV resistant so you don’t need to worry about being visually impaired while you’re cruising the streets.
LS2 Citation Carbon Fiber Helmet
Modular Helmets
Full face helmets are best for high speeds, but what if you want to maximize air flow at low speeds?
A modular helmet may be the best option for your preferences. This type of helmet can be switched from full face to open face with a simple press of a button.
The HJC IS-Max 2 Modular Helmet also comes with a retractable sun shield, so you can ride with perfect visibility in the daytime and at night. Modular helmets are a preferred type of dirt bike riding gear for naked bikes.
HJC IS-Max 2 Modular Helmet
Open Face Helmets
Looking for relaxed, cruiser motorcycle gear you can wear around town?
An open-face helmet will protect your head without making you feel constricted. A model like the Shoei RJ Platinum-R is a great choice for the open road. It allows for the smooth passage of air so you stay cool on your longer rides.
The lightweight shell is made with an advanced multi fiber material that’s both durable and comfortable.
Shoei RJ Platinum-R Solid Open Face Motorcycle Helmet
If you’re looking for the most authentic, minimalistic appearance while riding your naked bike, a half helmet is the perfect selection.
For greater protection, modular and full face helmets will give you the security you crave on fast-paced rides.
For more of your motorcycle parts and accesories click on BikeBandit link.
Since BikeBandit.com was first founded in 1999, they have been pioneers in bringing the powersports parts and accessories market online.
BikeBandit’s Mission: Create a user-friendly platform that allows you to find and purchase powersports products quickly from the comfort of your home.
BikeBandit.com originally began with OEM parts, but excellent prices, top notch service, and cutting-edge technology has allowed them to provide an array of products from the biggest names in the industry.
Over the last 18 years, BikeBandit has grown to become one of the most trusted names in powersports and a Top 500 Retailer consistently for the last decade.
To check out more of our blog posts, click here: Blog Posts
The Collaboration of Smokehead Islay Single Malt Whisky and Tyler Lunceford.
Come and follow the journey, through a series of episodes, behind the collaboration of Smokehead Islay Single Malt Whisky and world renowned biking sensation Tyler Lunceford, as he creates ‘The Smoker’, a one of a kind, customised, vintage racer inspired Ducati.
Smokehead challenged Tyler, who the New York press has dubbed “The Ducati whisperer of the tri-state area’, to create his boldest motorbike idea ever, for Smokehead to showcase at key events.
The bike is nearly completed and the project will run until September 2019. ‘The Smoker’ will then be unveiled and launched at Bar Convent Berlin.
Read more about this project in the press release below and follow the link to see the episodes.
SMOKEHEAD REVEAL MOTORCYCLE COLLABORATION
‘The Smoker’ will be a bespoke motorcycle expertly crafted by the Ducati Whisperer, Tyler Lunceford.
Smokehead Islay Single Malt Whisky has teamed up with renowned global biking sensation Tyler Lunceford (known as the Ducati Whisperer of the New York tri-state), challenging him to create his boldest motorcycle ever.
The project will follow the creation of a customised Ducati bike, captured through a series of episodes*.
US born, Tyler has a workshop in Brooklyn where he has customised bikes for many obsessive bikers and rock stars.
He recently moved to Scotland and opened a workshop in Leith, Edinburgh and will produce a custom Ducati, inspired by vintage racing motorcycles, for Smokehead to showcase at key events.
The project will run until September 2019, when the finished model, ‘The Smoker’, will be unleashed.
* FULL EPISODE NO. 1, 2 and 3: (click on 1/3 in upper right hand corner of video to see all three episodes.)
Commenting on the partnership, Tyler Lunceford, of North Motorcycle, said: “I’m excited to be involved with Smokehead. I love the idea of this brand supporting craftsmen and women, and it’s even better as I’m a huge Smokehead whisky fan.
Motorcyclists have an identity; they feel independent and different from other people. When you find something you like, such as a bold, smoky, outrageous whisky that is not for everyone, it gives you a sense of belonging when it is for you.
I’m literally building my dream bike; it will be something that’s never been seen before, something so bold, that even motorbike buffs will be blown away. It won’t be easy, but it’s a great opportunity to make something really special.”
Adding his thoughts, Iain Weir, Smokehead Brand Director, said: “We’re proud to be working with Tyler. His all-round attitude personifies Smokehead – bold, daring and independent.
We can’t wait to see the bike unveiled. Just like Smokehead, motorbikes are not for everyone, but that’s okay, and that’s why this partnership works so well.”
*Smokehead encourages everyone to drink responsibly, and not to drink and ride*.
My Say:
We here at Life and Motorbikes, are excited to see the end result as we are lovers of whisky, motorcycles, passion and creativity. I for one, was pleased when Tyler suggested ‘The Smoker’ might be minimalistic and naked. After looking at the series and hearing Tyler speak, I think this is going to be one hell of a bike!
Be part of the Life and Motorbikes team and register for our newsletter.
Why? I hear you ask. ( I know I would ask!)
First: 10% off first purchase in our shop. (More products in the negotiation stages).
Second: Notification of new blog posts to read.
As we are a new business, we are in the process of sourcing discounts on motorcycle friendly accommodation, eateries, accessories etc.
There are also a whole lot of ideas that are waiting to come to fruition, but they are still in the planning stage. So will keep you up to date with them too.
Last thing! We won’t spam you….we are too busy riding. We will just send newsletters when there is something that will interest you. AND if you really don’t want newsletters anymore then it is easy to unsubscribe…but why would you?
So fill in the newsletter form to the right to join our team.
Welcome back to Part 3 of our Motorcycle Trip through New Zealand.
If you missed Part 1 and 2 of the trip through New Zealand, click here…
4.2.19
After we visited Aoraki/Mt Cook, Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and the Lavender Farm, we headed over to Omarama where we split into two groups.
Michael, Sue and Jason headed over Lindi’s Pass and through Cromwell, Clyde, Middlemarch and Dunedin to Port Chalmers and the Buffalo Lodge, our lodgings for the night.
Ash, Bryan, Mario and myself headed out towards Oamaru, Palmerston, Waikouaiti and Dunedin to Port Chalmers and met the other group at The Buffalo Lodge.
Before we got to the beautiful Oamaru, we went over the Benmore Power Station in Otematata. Wow what a view!
Otemata Power Station
Construction on this power station began in 1958 and was opened in 1965. It is also “the power source for the high voltage direct current link to the North Island.”
How impressive was The Power Station and dam? There was no-one else there and it was huge!
Then we arrived at Oamaru. I am so glad that Ash was able to show us a bit of this quaint little town. This is another place I need to explore more of.
Steam Punk HQ’s
Oamaru is the largest town in North Otago, in the South Island of New Zealand and is the main town in the Waitaki District. It is 80 kilometres south of Timaru and 120 kilometres north of Dunedin.
There is the Steam Punk HQ and a beautiful Victorian Precinct with beautiful heritage buildings. Of course there are many more things here but we were only passing through.
Lonely Planet dubbed Oamaru, New Zealand’s coolest town and I am definitely coming back to explore this funky place.
After a quick visit we were off to Dunedin and through to The Buffalo Lodge in Port Chalmers!
Buffalo Lodge – Port Chalmers
The place was huge! There was only thing that was weird about the place and that was that the two toilets and two showers were in two of the bedrooms so we all had to traipse through the bedrooms to use them. But in the greater scheme of it all…. nobody cared.
Buffalo Lodge – Port Chalmers
The place was comfortable, there was parking right out the front, the view was brilliant, was reasonable priced and had everything we needed. Happy campers!
5.2.19
Today was still pretty damp and we made our way to Te Anau via, Milton, Lawrence, Gore and Lumsden.
This relaxed hostel is a 4-minute walk from Lake Te Anau, 1 km from Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre and 6 km from Kepler Track Trail Head.
4.5/5 for my review.
6.2.19
After a comfy night, we were off to Milford Sound. It was decided to reduce the amounts of bikes as there were so many tourists. So Sue and myself played pillion on the back of Jase’s and Ash’s bike – to save time.
I HAVEN’T BEEN PILLION FOR 8 YEARS!
Now, I had to shout that cos that’s just to let you know where my head space was. I trust Ashley with my life, which is just as well. There were hair pin corners, long straights and lots of tourists. (who didn’t know how to drive!)
Once I got my head into pillion mode, I was able to check out the scenery on the way there…stunning! Babbling brooks and rain forests and waterfalls etc etc…..boring! Ho hum! NO WAY!
Milford Sound
Milford Sound is a fiord on the west coast of the South Island. You cannot go to the South Island and not go and see Milford Sound. There are so many natural attractions in New Zealand and this is just incredible (OMG moment and that wasn’t just the ride in!). A must see on everyone’s itinery.
We took a day cruise up Milford Sound which was quite calm until the fiord opened to the Tasman Sea, but fortunately it wasn’t too choppy.
Good job as we had one member who gets quite sea sick, but she was fine. More info about tours and cruises here…….
The fiord is known for being the home of fur seal colonies (which we saw sunbaking), penguins and dolphins. There is actually Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to check out.
Milford Sound
Oh and I forgot to mention the Homer Tunnel!
Homer Tunnel
Yes….Homer Tunnel. 1270 m long, 970 m above sea level, leaks water and made of solid granite. It has passing bays but during busy/avalanche season they have the traffic lights. As a WHS person….I shuddered! But it was pretty cool going through.
I made a little video to show you what riding through Homer Tunnel is like.
Check it out here:
Then it was back on the bike as a pillion to Te Anau for another night. It was nice not to have to pack up and unpack again, even for just one night!
Not sure I can get used to being a pillion…..but we did get there quicker and less bikes to find parking.
7.2.19
Today was the day we were arriving in Invercargill and meeting up with Ash’s friend Deb (who has now become a life long friend of mine) and to watch the Burt Munro Hill Climb .
Ash went and met with Deb whilst we carried on to watch the Hill Climb. It was amazing! So many people, so many awesome bikes! I can’t explain to you the feeling! And Invercargill weather certainly turned it on for us. All I can say is PERFECT!
Ok…I can’t believe I thought I could write our Motorcycle trip through New Zealand blog in one post.
But I now have to leave it here until Part 4 as I have so many pics of the Burt Munro Challenge that I can’t fit it in this post without some issues.
I promise in the next post, we are actually there! lol
To read the final Motorcycle Trip through New Zealand to the Burt Munro Challenge PART 4 – February 2019, click here….
Cheers and Stay upright.
LJ
Why be part of the Life and Motorbikes Team?
Be part of the Life and Motorbikes team and register for our newsletter.
Why? I hear you ask. ( I know I would ask!)
First: 10% off first purchase in our shop. (More products in the negotioation stages).
Second: Notification of new blog posts to read.
As we are a new business, we are in the process of sourcing discounts on motorcycle friendly accommodation, eateries, accessories etc.
There are also a whole lot of ideas that are waiting to come to fruition, but they are still in the planning stage. So will keep you up to date with them too.
Last thing! We won’t spam you….we are too busy riding. We will just send newsletters when there is something that will interest you. AND if you really don’t want newsletters anymore then it is easy to unsubscribe…but why would you?
So fill in the newsletter form to the right to join our team.
Welcome back to Part 2 of our Motorcycle Trip through New Zealand.
If you missed Part 1 of our Motorcycle Trip through New Zealand, click here….
1.2.19
Ok….. heading down on State Highway 1 through Kaikoura. Onwards bound through Waiau, Reefton and finally stopping for the night at Greymouth. It rained from Waiaua to about 20k’s out of Greymouth. Had to rain sooner or later. We were incredibly lucky with the weather as New Zealand was having a heat wave and it only rained a couple of times.
Somewhere between Waiaua and Reefton.
2.2.19
After a huge breakfast at Greymouth, we were off to Kumara and up over Arthurs Pass.
If you have never been through Arthurs Pass, you gotta go. You have to make it part of your motorcycle trip through New Zealand. Arthur’s Pass National Park is situated between Canterbury and the West Coast in the South Island of New Zealand and Arthur’s Pass runs straight through the Park with a quaint little Alpine Village nestled amongst the Alps.
Arthur’s Pass Store
I can’t explain how incredible it is. It is rugged and mountainous and the weather can change quickly with little warning. Though we had perfect weather on our day…
From Arthur’s Pass to Darfield Hotel for the night. What wonderful staff! They even let us do our washing…they could probably smell us coming. No, seriously we didn’t have to put undies on inside out once!
The rooms were comfy and clean and so, so friendly.
3.2.19
Today we rode on over to the magical Akaroa. OMG! (I had a lot of OMG moments.)
Akaroa is a historic French and British settlement and is nestled right in an ancient volcano. It is amazing! The roads were twisty and the view was incredible.
Akaroa
One of the main attractions here are “swim with the dolphins” Tours. It is truly beautiful.
And it is only 84 kms from Christchurch. The day that we were there for breakfast so were about 40 other bikes. What a wonderful sight!
Akaroa
It was quite a windy ride to get there which was fine and I was getting used to the wind…that is until we went to Mt Cook…but I will get to that!
After having breakfast at Akaroa we then went back over the hill through Lincoln, Burnham, Ashburton for lunch, Geraldine, Fairlie, over Burkes Pass to Lake Tekapo.
Ahhh Lake Tekapo….another OMG moment.
Lake Tekapo
The turquoise coloured lake gets it’s intense colour from the glaciers. The glaciers grind rock into a fine dust which travels down towards the lake and then is suspended in the water giving it’s magnificent colour. Photo’s just do not give the colour justice. I have never seen anything like it.
Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
After Lake Tekapo we rode into Twizel for the night. We get around don’t you know! Twizel is the largest town in the Mackenzie District and is a handy place to base yourself if you are out exploring Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
There are so many things to do around this area like mountain climbing, hiking, horse trekking, kayaking, mountain biking and of course skiing.
We stayed at Twizel Holiday Park. It was comfy, well priced, clean and really close to Aoraki/Mt Cook. What more could you ask for!
I would definitely recommend it for a cabin. And if my little mate Kian is there, say hi to him. He has the best attitude! You can check prices and availability on this link here….Twizel Holiday Park.
4.2.19
Today we headed off to see Aoraki/Mt Cook. (OMG moment). It was sooooooo windy getting there. I had to lay on the tank to stop the front wheel lifting and you felt like you were being pushed from one side of the road to the other, which you were!.
Truly an experience. But such an awesome, sunny day. I couldn’t believe we were so close to the snow.
The road to Aoraki/Mt Cook
Aoraki/Mt Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand and runs the entire length of the South Island.
You can’t visit the South Island without checking it out..I didn’t know but this mountain helped Sir Edmund Hillary develop his climbing skills in preparation for the conquest of Everest. Wow!
And then there is the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre which showcases the Aoraki Mt Cook region and consists of a cafe and bar, the world’s southern most digital dome Planetarium, a state-of-the-art 3D Mount Cook Magic movie, a museum and of course, you can’t go past the mountain views through the floor to ceiling windows. You should take a visit to it… here is the link ……
Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
On the way back from seeing Aoraki/Mt Cook we stopped off and had a lavender icecream at the New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm. I have never had a Lavender icecream before…..interesting!
New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm
This Lavender Farm is in the middle of nowhere on Mount Cook Rd, Ben Ohau, which is on the way to Aoraki Mount Cook. It was fun place to stop at as they had heaps of lavender products and it was great to try the Lavender icecream ‘cos it was a bloody hot day!
We rode on to Omarama and at this point the group split up. But I am going to stop here as the page is getting too long with lots of pics and it will take forever to load in your browser.
There are heaps more things to tell you and pictures to show you so I am going to put the rest of the pics into a little video for you to peruse through. As soon as it is up, I will add it to the blog.
If you haven’t taken a motorcycle trip through New Zealand you should really consider it! All these words and pictures just can’t explain how awesome it is.
This is a map of the South Island and the route we took.
Be part of the Life and Motorbikes team and register for our newsletter.
Why? I hear you ask. ( I know I would ask!)
First: 10% off first purchase in our shop. (More products in the negotioation stages).
Second: Notification of new blog posts to read.
As we are a new business, we are in the process of sourcing discounts on motorcycle friendly accommodation, eateries, accessories etc.
There are also a whole lot of ideas that are waiting to come to fruition, but they are still in the planning stage. So will keep you up to date with them too.
Last thing! We won’t spam you….we are too busy riding. We will just send newsletters when there is something that will interest you. AND if you really don’t want newsletters anymore then it is easy to unsubscribe…but why would you?
So fill in the newsletter form to the right to join our team.
This was the most amazing trip I have ever had AND it was my first visit to New Zealand. To be riding and seeing the sights with my mates was just brilliant.
I don’t want this post to be too long but I could seriously write forever about it so I will be as brief as possible (when possible).
Ok, it started when a couple of guys went over last year to the Burt Munro Challenge in Invercargill, New Zealand and they asked a few of us if we would like to go this year. Oh yes indeedy!
What they did was buy bikes and have them stored in New Plymouth at a mates house. Very handy.! We had two BMW F650’s, one x BMW R1150RT, one x BMW R1100RT, one x GSXR 750, one x Suzuki Bandit, one x Suzuki RF900….and this is my story!
26.1.19
Australia Day – Up at 3.30am to finish packing and to get to Bryan’s. Mario and his son picked us up and took us to the Airport. There we met Ash, Michael, Sue and Jason. Seven of us intrepid travellers ready to take on New Zealand. Then we were off to Auckland with Air China! The adventure begins!
Ash, Bryan, Mario, Michael, Sue & Jason
We arrive in Auckland and hire a maxi van to take us down to New Plymouth where the bikes are stored. New Plymouth is on the West Coast of the North Island and is the major city of the Taranaki Region. I found it quite funky. Then I saw Mount Taranaki/Egmont! Impressive.. My pic, unfortunately doesn’t do it justice.
Mt Taranaki/ Mt Egmont
27.1.19
We haven’t picked up the bikes yet so we see some of the sights of Taranaki. The Festival of Lights at – Pukekura Park was on and I totally recommend it to anyone who is able to catch it. This festival runs free, yes FREE every year from mid-December to early February and the park is transformed into an amazing wonderland of colour every evening. There are day time programs too. Here is the link to see more. https://www.festivaloflights.nz/
Festival of Lights – Pukekura
28.1.19
We pick up the bikes and take them over to get the road worthy’s. Everyone passes except one but that was Mario needing a new tyre. Easily fixed. The bike they had for me didn’t need a roadworthy, but it wasn’t till later I learnt that there were no brake lights. Also it was a bit high for my 5’3” ass, but I was determined to do this!
My bike was a BMW F650 and the most comfortable bike to do those roads. I normally ride a Harley Custom 1200 Sportster, so it was completely different and once I was up on it, the ride was awesome. We were riding 10 hour days and not once did my back or butt ache. I actually did love that bike and I still want to buy it off them (and lower it of course). Will never get rid of the Harley though.
Picking up the bikes.
29.1.19
We head off towards Lake Taupo via Inglewood where we take a photo opportunity at “Nelson’s Bakery” in Inglewood. This is our good mate Grant Nelson’s family bakery.
Nelson’s Bakery – Inglewood
Then we head to Stratford to ride the infamous “Forgotten World Highway, also known as New Zealand State Highway 43.
The “Forgotten World Highway is 150km long and was actually built on old colonial bridle paths from the 19th Century. Even though it is one of the most scenic drives in the world, it is also ranked as one of the 10 worst roads in New Zealand by the Police. It is definitely challenging but very, very exciting.
This road travels between Stratford and Taumaranui. The Highway has beautiful landscape, gorges, tunnels and forest. There are sheer drops and hairpins and twists and tight turns making you a bit dizzy, but oh so much fun. There is also a lot of slippery gravel so you seriously have to be on the ball. But wow what an experience!
Forgotten Highway
About half way, you come across Whangamomona. It is one of the North Islands remotest towns and the townspeople declared it a republic in 1988. Of course we had to stop off at the Hotel and buy a “I’ve done the Forgotten World Highway” t-shirt. You just have to do it!
Whangamomona Hotel
About 14kms past Whangamomona you get to Moki Tunnel, also known as Hobbit’s Hole. Hand-carved b y pickaxes, the tunnel is a 200 metre-long and gets very, very dark very, very quickly. You can hardly see anything until your eyes adjust.
Hobbit’s Hole
When you come out of Hobbit’s Hole you then enter Tangarakau Gorge and then the surface becomes gravel road for about 15 kilometres. I don’t like gravel roads, my Harley back home doesn’t like gravel roads but this BMW was brilliant on gravel roads and I was very grateful.
From Whangamomona we went to Ohura to Taumaranui and to Ohakune for the night. This is the wonderful site that awaited us… Mount Ruapehu.
Mt Ruapehu
Mount Ruapehu is an active volcano sitting above the desert and when you are at the top, you can see all the way to the coast. Magnificient! Click here for more info about Mt Ruapehu.
This was also birthday #1 for the trip. There were three birthdays between the seven of us! What are the odds! Happy birthday Bryan.
Ohakune
30.1.19
Onwards bound to do a big loop of Lake Taupo….Ahhhh Lake Taupo. The heart of Aotearoa New Zealand’s beautiful North Island.
Lake Taupo
I didn’t know, but the beautiful Lake Taupo is about the size of Singapore. No kidding! It is magnificent. Around Lake Taupo you will find ski fields, trout filled rivers, geothermal valleys with hot springs and the Tongariro National Park. There are also three volcanoes in the National Park…I kid you not….A place I definitely want to come back to and spend more time. Mind you, I feel the same about all of NZ.
Lake Taupo
Tonight we are staying at Patea at a mate’s Holiday Home. Thank you Lewis for allowing us to stay, putting on a BBQ and helping us out with everything AND storing the bikes. You have great neighbours! This was our accommodation for the night. Not too shabby.
Patea
We have been incredibly lucky to have the accommodation that we had. It is no easy feat to find accommodation for seven people.
31.1.19
Off we ride to Wanganui for breakfast before we head to Wellington to catch the Bluebridge Ferry to Picton in the South Island. Took about 3 hrs 30 mins. Met some interesting people and it was a great ferry trip!
Blueridge Ferry
Cook Straight
1.2.19
Onwards bound to Greymouth. We had a quick stop at Grassmere Salt Lake.
Salt Lake
Then we had to stop at Nins Bin which is about 20kms north of Kaikoura on the State Highway 1 so Mario could buy a Crayfish. Luckily he talked it down from $80 something to $60 something. All we could say was.. WTF? Nins Bin is very unassuming in the middle of what it seems is nowhere, in a little blue and white caravan. Apparently the crayfish was brilliant and it has a great reputation.
Nins Bin
We carried on the State Highway 1 which is the longest road in New Zealand running the length of both islands.
There were heaps of road works going on this stretch of road and I was told it was closed from 4 November 2016 to 15 December 2017, due to damage from the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake. We didn’t mind waiting too much (not too much, though it did take a while) on this stretch as it is one of the most scenic routes, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and 2,500 m peaks on the other.
Waiting on State Highway 1
Well I am going to leave it right here for now. There were so many pictures to choose from and it took me ages to decide which ones. I hope you enjoyed reading about our adventure, but wait….there is more. Look out for Part 2 AND more about the Burt Munro Challenge…(we do finally get there!).
Also, if anyone is interested in finding out about going to New Zealand for a bike road trip and is interested in finding out about the bikes we had there, just contact me here or on our Life and Motorbikes facebook page and I will hook you up with someone who will be able to answer your questions. I know they are available to use, but I don\’t know the ins and outs of it.
This is a map of the North Island and the directions we went.
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Once again Girl Torque, the Sunshine Coast Motorcycle Ride Group for Women, has done an awesome job in organising the Bras N Bikes 17th Annual Charity Ride. For those that don’t know, all proceeds from this wonderful event go to help theBloomhill Cancer CareHelp Centre in Buderim.
This is always a fun event and just watching all the bikers and pillions in pink was definitely a sight to see. First of all a huge congratulations to everyone involved. A mammoth job and one which you all seemed to breeze through. Though I am sure it wasn’t as easy as you made it look! The corner markers and helpers were amazing and they all did a fantastic job. You should all be proud of yourselves. The weather was stunning Sunshine Coast weather and the route was superb. I have been living on the Sunshine Coast for 7 years and Girl Torque took us on roads I never knew existed.
We started off at Yandina Bowls Club and let me tell you….the people organising the parking of the bikes were incredible. I don’t know exactly how many bikes would have been there. I would say close to 300 maybe even more, but they handled us like pros. Heaven forbid you park on an angle cos ya gotta move it into line. I say this with love, they were so friendly and always smiling. AND knew how to fit all of us bikes in. If everyone had parked where they wanted, we all would not have got in. Kudos to you all. So please take the comment as a light hearted jest as is intended. You guys rocked!
Pretty in Pink
The Programme for the day was:
07:30 – 09:00 Registration 09:00 Housekeeping 09:30 Leave Yandina – Yandina Bowls Club – Eumundi – Cooroy – Carters Ridge – Tuchekoi – Moy Pocket – North Arm – Yandina Bowls Club
The ride took about 1.75 hrs and it was such a beautiful, perfect day.
11:30 Best Dressed Bike PrizeLucky Door Prize Live Auction Best Dressed Male and Female Fashion Parade Silent Auction and Raffle Tickets Draw.
There was burgers and pizzas, juices, Miss Moto female motorcycle gear, a coffee stand and of course icy cold beers from the bar…or any other beverages you fancied.
Stalls
I loved the fact most people got into the fun of the day and dressed up. Apologies to people, I took their names and typed them into the phone and somehow have lost that data. Ahhh I need to get more up with technology. lol
There were a couple of clubs I saw on the day. IV Ace’s were there, Southside M.O.B, Black Dog Riders and I met up with a couple of Ulysses members supporting the cause.
Jerry and Lee
Ulysses Members (apologies, lost your name and your branch-please contact me and I will amend the details)
SPONSORS
Some of the sponsors were there too. Great job for sponsoring such a special event.
GOLD SPONSOR – Team Moto
SILVER SPONSOR – Yandina IGA
BRONZE SPONSORS – Caloundra Motorcycle Centre, Miss Moto, Coastline BMW Motorcycles, Historical Motor Cycle Club, Sunshine Coast Harley Davidson, Pete’s Village Bakery, 2 Wheeled Babes, Bellbird Creek Café, BMB Beauty by Design, Capulet & Co, Cocoa Shiraz, Coolum Tattoo, Nookie, Draggin Jeans, Every 2nd Sunday Photography, Farrows Motorcycle Mechanics, Tracey-Lee Adams from Just Say Ah, Kulture Waves Tattoo, Uncle Boots, Logans Plant Nursery, MotoDNA, Moxy Fitness, Mr Henderson, Noosa Scooter Style, Phil Driver Service Centre, Roadcraft, ROC Moto, The Detailing Centre, The Edward Brown Collective, Touroz Trikes, Tyres4Bikes, Wide Bay Motorcycles, Sunstate Therapies.
Support these businesses people!
More Pink People
So now I am sure Girl Torque is already preparing for the 18th Annual Bras n Bikes ride.
A huge congratulations to you all. It was another fantastic event and I look forward to the next one. If you are a lady and interested in more information about joining Girl Torque, then check them out on theirfacebook page.
And if you are interested in finding out more about Bloomhill Cancer Care click on theirfacebook page.
Well this post has taken way too long to be written……….. but unfortunately life had gotten in the way of my motorbike this month.
This event is an annual motorbike run, celebrating the lives of all friends and family lost and all friends and family present.
A few years ago, good friends Denis and Sandra lost their son Keith and so to remember Keith and to support a worthy cause, “The Keith Buckley Memorial Tunnel Run” was born and will be run annually. This is an extremely special ride for me and my friends and is the brain child of Ashley Gill and Michael Richardson. MotorMedics is the worthy cause that had been decided on as “they are a volunteer motorcycle emergency first responder group providing frontline emergency care to fallen riders on SEQLD roads which are known motorcycle riding hotspots. The service is free of charge and is funded through ongoing community support through donations and purchase of their merchandise.”
Michael, Felicity and Jade
What a wonderful, selfless act it is to help us riders with no Government funding AT ALL. I interviewed Felicity Dunstan and Jade McGuinness from MotoMedics and you can hear all about why they do what they do and how we, as bikers, can support them as they voluntarily support the riders of SEQueensland. Let me tell you the motorbikes are awesome.
I must warn you, my editing software packed up and so I have put up the video on you tube as it was taken. Sorry Felicity and Jade. But I really wanted this blog post up so we can help promote you guys.
About 75 people, I didn’t do an accurate account so it could be more, met up at DFO Brisbane. There were all sorts of bikes, both sport bikes and cruisers. We also had a backup vehicle just in case and Tubby from Motorcycle Towing was there. We then headed off and rumbled through the tunnels (which was quite loud, and was definitely the plan) to Esk via Ipswich and we all stopped at the Esk Fire Station where Denis works. There were some fantastic stalls in town which we all visited.
Today was Ashley Gill’s grandson Jack’s first motorcycle ride today and he was proud as punch, though I am not sure who was more excited Ash or Jack.
Ash and Jack. Credit Ashley Gill
WHERE IS TUBBY AND THE BACK UP VEHICLE?..
That’s ok, he was there….
It was a great ride, though my bike nearly needed the back up vehicle.. Ho hum! About a third of the way to Esk my bike started misfiring and losing power intermittently. We thought I had picked up some dirty fuel. How awesome was this bunch of bikers though! So many of them slowed down to stay with me so I wouldn’t be on my own. Of course the Harley jokes came out….
Luckily there was a bottle of octane boost that appeared magically by a strange masked man. (Who was that man?) And then all was right with the world. I didn’t want to risk my bike breaking down totally, just in case it wasn’t dodgy fuel. So a couple of us rode back home via Toogoola, Kilcoy and Woodford while the rest of the group went up the Hampton-Esk Road to Persevereance Dam. They apparently had stopped at a café on Hampton-Esk Road and then split for home. I was so disappointed as I really wanted to carry on with the ride but seriously did not want to get stuck out there. My bike was playing up that badly. Grrrr. No more Harley jokes please. lol
CONCLUSION
All in all it was an excellent day. The weather was brilliant and my bike didn’t actually break down. We paid our respects to Denis and Sandra and I met some more awesome bikers. There was a total of $584.60 donated to MotoMedics but next year I would like to see it doubled though.
This is going to be an ongoing annual event to remember Keith and to support MotoMedics. Keep an eye out next year and let’s see this double, even triple the amount of people attending. Oh and check out MotoMedics website to find out more about them.
Thanks to the Aces & Eights SMC for hosting the Cruise to Bunya Mountains ride. For such a stinking hot day it was an amazing turn out. 55 die hard riders met at the Sundowner Hotel in Caboolture and we met approximately another 25 at Yarraman. In my little group there was myself, Tony, Josephine, Colin, Cindy and Carl which was fantastic cos I hadn’t ridden with them for ages. There is just something that makes me “happy” seeing so many bikes and people and the noise and the smell. Ahhhhh!
Kevin from Greenbank and Jim from Mount Coolum at Sundowner Hotel. CABOOLTURE.
We first stopped off at Kilcoy for a 30 min fuel and drink break. Here I met Tony Nicol and his partner Meranda. They are a lovely, friendly couple and Tony is one of the three founding members of Aces & Eights. Tony had told we were heading off to a winery, Kingsley Grove Estate in Kingaroy, for lunch. Winery! Hell yeah! They had beer too. Then off we went to Yarraman for another drink break and pick up of the other riders. We also stopped off at Harley and Hayley’s property in Ellesmere. Harley is the President of the Sth. Burnett chapter. Great property, awesome sound system and some very, very cold drinks. Bless you!
Some of the bikes at Yarraman.
We left there to ride up into the Bunya Mountains. What a great road, though I do believe it was melting on this fine day. I had never been up there and the view was majestic as was the blue wild flowers growing on the side of the road. So up we went to a Café, Poppies on the Hill and there was plenty of parking for bikes. We had another well-deserved drink and quick rest and headed off to Kingsley Grove Estate Winery where we had wood fired pizza and salads and more cold drinks.
Tony Nicol, President of North side ChapteratKingsley Grove Estate Winery
Ben, who is VP of SC Chapter, thanking everyone for joining the ride.
This was the drop off point for everyone to go their own way from there. Some people found accommodation (hopefully with a pool), and some of us headed home stopping at every stop for drinks. There were a couple of little events on the way home, one of our group was feeling ill on the back of the bike but she made it home like a trouper without giving in to being actually sick, another one had a stinker of a hangover and I have no idea how she even rode on such a hot day, another one was just about passed out on the grass and everyone was tipping water over him. Unfortunately my water was like it had just been boiled so he is lucky he didn’t get third degree burns and I had something fly down my jacket and sting me on the chest.
Carl, Cindy and Josephine at a property in Ellesmere somewhere.
I tell you, unless you ride you may think OMG! WHY just WHY! But only people that love riding with a passion, will ride in all sorts of weather ‘cos it is the thrill of riding. You are living life, feeling life and smelling life. It took us a while to get home, but it really was an enjoyable day with old mates and meeting some new ones and I am looking forward to riding with them again.
The purpose of the club is as a social motorcycle & car club, for all its members and their families, who enjoy similar beliefs with a focus on looking after each other and community spirit. The club will promote family, respect, loyalty and mateship among its members. The club will also aim to focus on supporting those in need through charity rides and events while promoting a positive and respectful self -image.
The South Burnett Car Club also made an appearance and stayed with us, but unfortunately I never got any pics of the cars.
Credit: Life and Motorbikes
Lake Tekapo
Tony Nicol, President of North side Chapter at Kingsley Grove Estate Winery 
