130 Days - Hotel Rooms - Leprechauns
 

130 days to go and 11 left to book with the £20 discount.

All the on-site hotel rooms have now been taken. If you're looking for nearby alternatives to camping, the Thistle Hotel or Premier Inn at East Midlands Airport are probably your best bets.

The list of presenters has grown again. Norman Magowan, author of Leprechauns in Latin America and Leprechauns in Alaska, will be giving a talk about getting your adventure into print - explaining the process and pitfalls of writing and self-publishing. Plus Jupiter's Traveller, Dom Giles, is going to presenting about the advantages and disadvantages of travelling alone, two-up and in a group.

Also pleased to report that the Land Rover Classic Campers club will be in the HUBB Zone, where Frog Island 4x4 are planning a series of practical demo's.

Last 4 days for the £20 discounted tickets :thumbup1:

girl riding solo
 

Hi all, I'm a girl riding solo. Last year I went to my first HU event -> the Germany summer meeting. It was great -> lots of friendly people, excellent atmosphere!!! Now I'm considering coming to the UK meeting. I've heard that it's a lot bigger than the Germany meeting. I have some questions... Does the UK meeting also have a friendly spirit? Are there any other girls/women travelling solo and coming to this event? Is it easy to meet people? Are the riders travelling in couples or groups open or are they mostly on their own minding "their own business"? Is it safe? I would love to hear from you all! Thanks, Karolien

Hi Karolien78:

It's perfectly safe, lots of friendly people with an excellent atmosphere!!! It is a big event and I think that was one of the reasons for the change of venues, to better cater for the increase in numbers.

There are some women that travel solo and will come to the event solo. I've come solo for the last two, but I'm not a woman... It's very easy to meet people, we're all interested in the same thing and usually share in a common worldview.

Maybe Sam, Ian or another HUBB admin could put you in touch with other women travelling solo to Donnington. Or perhaps you could start a solo ladies meet-up thread.

Hope to see you there.

:thumbup1:

I can't speak to whether there will be any solo women going (I think he above suggestion's a good one), but on my first HU UK meet, I found everyone to be very friendly and approachable; one of the reason's I'm going again this year! I felt that everything was safe and secure; I have to admit that I was anxious about this before I'd been for the first time. I will be there by myself, and I met many solo travellers.

The atmosphere's going to be excellent! I'm looking forward to the new venue.

Hi Karolien,

don't worry we're a very friendly crew. You can join in when you want to, chill out when you don't and you'll have a lovely time. Like minded folk result in good company. You'll also find my crew with a flock of Yamaha XT225 and XT250's, so don't feel like you have to ride a massive bike to fit in.

I'll be there for the whole event, so just look for a short little bloke, with a glass of beer in his hand, with a big grin and talking to everyone about little Yamaha's and that'll be me!

Regards

Reggie

Hi Karolien,

Looking forward to meeting you at HUBB UK! I will be there on my own for the weekend as my husband is working. Meet quiet a few female riders last year at Ripley which was really nice... you'll have a great time!

Reggie - hope to be able to quiz you too about the Serrow's! This is still our furute bike of choice for our RTW trip but we'd love to find out more about them!

Beej

Hi Beej,

well we'll have quite a few different version for you to try out for size and with different luggage options to consider.

You'll be more than welcome to join in with the clan. Just listen for the laughing and the tall stories and you're sure to find us!

Regards

Reggie

Hi Karolien, great to hear that you are thinking about coming over to the HUBB UK. Yes, it is bigger but the key is that the people are the same sorts of people you are used to. Those who have travelled, those who are planning to go soon and those who are dreaming but can’t get away - yet. :thumbup1:

How big is it? It’s not a motorcycle rally so it’s not huge and that means it’s really easy to get to know other people – I’ve never heard about anyone ending up on their own. I hope you like tea though! Chances are you’ll say hello to your neighbour on the camp site and the next thing you’ll know is that you are getting an invitation for a cup :biggrin3:

Now, I would say this :innocent: because one of the things I help to do is to look after all the volunteers, but one of the best ways to get to know people is to work with one of the Crews for a few hours. You’ll be settled in in no time then!

I hope you can make it.
Cheers,
Sam

Thanks for all the reassuring words. It seems you guys and girls are all too damn nice and it would be a shame not to come then. I guess i'm going to ask the boss for a few days off... Oh and i'm a big fan of beer and tea so that should work out just fine!

Hi Karolien,

you'll fit in for sure.

Regards

Reggie

Well my brake discs are being custom made as we speak by a company in London so I hope to have my little KLX on the road ... however I might have the Tengai all sorted by then :)

Will be up on the friday and have a buddy to journey up with me from the South West so won't be alone when setting up my tent haha

Hi Lonepilgrim,

I must admit that i can be entertaining watching some folk erecting their tents!

Regards

Reggie

100 Days To Go!
 

Today marks the 100 day milestone on the way to HUBB UK.

We now have over 50 presenters packing the schedule, 25 trade stands in the Adventure Travel Zone, and another dozen stands and displays for clubs and magazines in the HUBB Zone.

As well as all those from throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the event is hosting visitors from Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Japan, Netherlands, Poland and the USA.

Don't forget that everyone who pre-registers and pays for their event pass before 31st March 2013 is being entered in our prize draw for the chance of winning a 3-day riding holiday at the Adventure Rider Centre in Spain.

Cheers

Iain

Just 100 days! I was at the London Motorcycle Show over the last weekend and I had the chance to natter the HUBB UK with lots of people. Everyone I talked to is very up beat about it - phew :mchappy: Interestingly, quite a few of the people I nattered with had never heard of HU or the HUBB UK, but were/are planning to hit the road. I think we'll have quite a few new people to the event. Good stuff!

Hope you get the Tengai sorted LP....it will be great to have at least two there !


100 DAYS TO GO !!!:wave:

I've registered as arriving by motorcycle
But on the Thursday morning of the HUBB, I arrive in the UK after a 35hr flight from NZ :helpsmilie:
I intend driving home to collect the bike but if I'm tired, that could be dangerous...
Is it ok to change my mind & arrive by car on the day?
Are cars permitted in the campsite?

Apologies in advance to any presenters if I fall asleep.. :blushing:

Good grief! No worries at all. Just brilliant that you are going to make it! Cars in the campsite? Nope, Exped vehicles are. However... you can scoot up with your kit - there are driveways through the site - dump of your kit and then park up in the parking area. 'Fall asleep'? I should think you will want a snooze - cosy corner in the bar to be saved for you? bier

You have mail, from Belgium, from a couple, who are coming and presenting and will make from the HUBB UK the official start of a 5 months offroad journey to Mongolia, Afghanistan and Iraq... doh

Come to ours, you'll get an half hour movie to see, so you won't fall asleep!!!
(DRZ to scandinavia & Russia or something like that; can't remeber the title I gave up to Iain :innocent:)

If you do fall asleep, we buy you a beer once you are awake, if we're not halfway to Mongolia by then.... :scooter:

80 Days to go!!!!
 

It’s been an incredible month since we posted last; a really buzzy time with lots coming together, and plans for new things coming to the boil.

12 travel writers and film makers have signed up to be with us and some new companies too – just have a look at the HUBB UK page and you’ll see what I mean. The Adventure Travel Zone and HUBB Zone (info coming soon :cool4: ) are going to be better than they have ever been before.

And the presentations? Just look at what is going on with those!!! The RAC Carnet department are going to be with us. They will be doing a presentation and will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. These are the people you really need to know if you are planning an engine powered trip!

Why the post now? It’s just 80 days until the HUBB UK kicks off and don’t forget, if you've friends who are planning to come but they've not registered yet, they need to crack on - register and pay before the 31st of March to be entered in the Prize draw – just 20 days left for that! :thumbup1:

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Both Passepartout and I are looking forward to this! Thanks for the work so far, I'm sure it'll be excellent! :scooter:

NEWS FLASH! If you've never been to race day at Donington Park race track well, arrive at the HUBB UK on Thursday and you are going to get a taste. Highly tuned engines and the scent of the race will be wafting towards us during the day.There's a practice day going on - the session finishes at 5pm so you'll need to arrive early enough :biggrin3:
We have asked if your highly tuned overlanding vehicles can join in but for some strange reason they didn't reply... :whistling:

Trade Stands, Presenters and Authors
 

Thanks to the huge interest in the HUBB UK event, all the spaces in the Adventure Travel Zone for trade stands and authors/film-makers are now taken and we've got all the presenters we can fit into what's going to be a really packed schedule.

The booking forms for trade stands, author/film-makers and presenters have now been switched off on the event page.

There are still a few spaces left for clubs, forums and magazines, and of course the pre-registration form for adventure travellers will remain open until 23rd May.

Don't forget that if you want the chance of winning the 3-day riding holiday in Spain, you need to be pre-registered before the end of the month to get into the prize draw.

If you’ve been on the HUBB UK page recently then you’ll have seen how many companies have signed to be at the event. Frankly we are delighted with the number and quality of the companies.

Over the past years HUers have asked us to invite companies who design, make or provide the kit to make an adventure a better thing, and who can actually help you into an adventure. These traders really know their stuff and you’ll have the chance to get right into the nitty gritty with them – far more than you would be able to at a larger event. They have the time to talk to you, and you have the chance to really look at the kit.

Over the next weeks we are going to be giving you more information about the Travel companies who have booked to be with us. What can you expect from each of them?

The first company to book in for the HUBB UK, are regular attendees Traveldri-Plus. They will be on hand with essentials for that short or long haul trip. Bags, tents, thermal layers and so much more quality kit.

Les & Jane asked us to that you know that an Internet price match will often available, and yes they will have stock!

Look at their link on the HUBB UK page to see more information on Traveldri-Plus

Next up - Frogs Island 4x4 – Who are they and what do they do?

Frogs Island 4x4 used to be based on an Island in the lovely village of Brightwell, where frogs roamed, quite literally, so the name stuck! Founded 15 years ago, Frogs Island 4x4 started life as a PR2 Allmakes Parts for Land Rovers and grew from a small one ramp workshop on an Island to the premises they are at today on the Milton Park Business Estate in Oxfordshire.

They tell us:
'In the past we have worked on vehicles for Film Crews following Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman and prepared their Nissan Patrols, we have also worked on Rally cars going to the Toureg and Land Rovers travelling around the world.

Our skilled technicians and mechanics work on all makes and models of vehicles, and with our 4 ramps and 1 ‘2’ poster there is nothing too big or too small for our dedicated team. As well as servicing and MOTs we also offer a unique range of services for those with slightly more ambition for their vehicles or 4x4’s.

Our dedicated parts counter is manned by enthusiastic Land Rover owners and can help give advice on all manner of Land Rover and 4x4 parts and accessories from the Terrafirma Range and also Old Man Emu Suspension, Rock Oil, Superwinch, Front Runner Expedition Gear and Roof racks and plenty more quality manufacturers.'

More from Frogs Island soon! But in the meantime don’t forget to click on their logo on the HUBB UK site.

Who are HUBB UK event supporters Adventure Spec Ltd?

The company was established in September 2007 by Dave Lomax and Chris Colling. Both mad keen adventure motorcyclists, they had little luck in finding a reliable source for the essential kit they required for real independent off-road travel.

The plan was simple; if a suitable product was available locally Adventure-Spec would stock it. If a suitable product was available abroad Adventure-Spec would import it. If a suitable product was not available Adventure-Spec would manufacture it.

Finally, the idea wasn't just about what was sold, it was about the way it was sold and the knowledge base of those who sold it.

Today that plan is well on its way to becoming reality. Adventure-Spec products are tested almost 365 days a year by riders on expeditions, races and trips all over the world. Product development and acquisition continues daily and each newly stocked piece can be bought from one of the most advanced on-line shops in the industry, and if you need advice about products you can call and speak to riders with expert product knowledge and a ridiculous passion for their subject.

Chris and Dave say, ‘If we like it we use it, and only then do we sell it. That way everything we sell can be certified ‘Adventure-Spec’!

Don’t forget to click on the Adventure Spec link on the HUBB UK site for the full gen.

Brilliant! This is what its all about isn't it. I asked Grant if he'd mind me posting this email that was sent to him. The email says:

'I keep meaning to drop a note your way.

I just wanted to send a heartfelt "thanks" your way. We've dreamt of a two-wheeled adventure for years and just simply felt that it was so far out of reach that it was impossible. Thanks to the work you and Susan (and others) have put into HU, and for the Achievable Dream series (we bought the set ) we began to realize the greatest roadblock to realizing this dream was ourselves and our ideas of how our lives were supposed to be.

The folks in your movies are everyday people doing extraordinary things and, somehow, that made it all seem incredibly possible. With that realization, Nita and I sold the lot and we're in our eighth month on the road (welovemotogeo.com). I can't emphasize enough how important you and your work have been to us finding a way to do what we feel we were always meant to do.

So for everything you may not have known you've done, thanks! You guys are the best.'

How cool is that! What's the logo say? 'Inspiring, informing and connecting'. :thumbup1: See you in 65 days :)

Now here's some fantastic news!

For 2013 a new ride has been launched to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK. The 'Adventure Bike Riders Against Cancer' ride is a UK wide relay ride starting at the Ace Café Adventure Overland day in London on April 21st and ending at the HUBB UK on Friday 31st May.

During that time over 30 riders will be involved, passing a baton between them as they ride around the UK.

The first rider to carry the baton will actually be on day 1 of his RTW trip, what better way to start his adventure?! :mchappy:

To get involved or just donate check out Adventure Bike Riders Against Cancer.

Prize Draw
 

A quick reminder for anyone that hasn't booked for the HUBB UK event yet....

To be included in the prize draw and be in with the chance of winning the 3-day riding holiday in Spain, courtesy of Adventure-Spec.com, you need to have pre-registered before midnight on Easter Sunday.

Just 49 days to go :thumbup1: Lots more news coming out over the next days... Some good stuff too!

Live music at the HUBB UK? To right there is. :D One of Nottingham’s most in demand singers and entertainers, Steve McGill will be with us on Friday night, playing live by the Fire Drums in the HUBB Zone. Having played many of the most successful venues across the City Centre he has held residencies at Richard Branson’s Roof Gardens, TriBeCa & Bed in Manchester and in its heyday, Tantra Lounge & Bar in Nottingham for almost 10 years.

If you were at the Meet two years ago you’ll know that Steve’s voice ranges from soft to powerful and that he carefully chooses songs to suit the mood and atmosphere of the evening. He sings songs right through from the Bee Gees to Oasis, from Frankie Goes To Hollywood to Snow Patrol.

The songs Steve has covered most famously include ‘What’s Up’ by The Four Non Blondes, ‘Iris’ by The Goo Goo Dolls and ‘Man In The Mirror’ by Michael Jackson. He can easily keep us dancing with upbeat acoustic performances of pop classics.

More about Steve? He’s scored song writing success with a no.2 in the iTunes chart and constantly writes and produces for other people at his dedicated recording facility.

You’ll find a link on the main HUBB UK page to the sort of thing Steve will be playing and singing for us, but here he is singing ‘If you love somebody’ and ‘Mustang Sally’ at the Roy De Weird Memorial Concert:


TWITTER // for the nosey....... www.twitter.com/mcgillmusic
FACE BOOK // for the fans... www.facebook.com/mcgillmusic
STUDIO // PRODUCTION WORK :- BNDMusicCo's sounds on SoundCloud - Hear the world’s sounds
VINTAGE DEMOS // PERSONAL :- stevemcgill's sounds on SoundCloud - Hear the world’s sounds
SPOTIFY // for the poor... Steve McGill on Spotify
iTUNES // for the rich.......https://itunes.apple.com/gb/artist/s...ll/id455066478
VIDEOS // Steve McGill - YouTube

Hi All, I just wanted to let you guys know that Iain is in hospital. He's been operated on for a badly ruptured and infected appendix. Not fun at all.

He'll certainly be on a ward for a few more days at least and then there's going to be a significant recovery period. However, Iain being Iain, he's already doing work from his hospital bed doh in a limited fashion mind!

Anyway, thoughts with him and Robyn. Get well soon mate.

Some great news. We are delighted that Adventure Trucks are coming over to the HUBB UK and they are bringing something very trick with them. Etricks Electric Mountain bikes! Just have a look at this link to see what the score is.

Etricks Electric Mountain bikes???

And even more good news. The guys from Adventure Trucks are going to let a number of people test ride the bikes! I suggest you check in with them as fast as you can on arrival. See if you'll be eligible for a test ride.

Who are Adventure Trucks?
With more than 20 years of combined experience in building and travelling with trucks Adventure Trucks specializes in no-nonsense overland trucks. They asked us to pass this message on to you:

‘We not only build the living units, we also find a truck that suits your wishes.
Adventure Trucks also does something "more" for our customers, if you buy a truck with us you get a lifetime support when you’re on the move. If needed we try to source the parts you need or try to get you going by giving support.
Before we send you off in your new "home" we give you a course in truck handling on and off road if needed and a course basic technics of the truck.
Adventure Trucks is all about Overland Truck Technology.’

You can find out more about them from the link on the HUBB UK Page.

Oooo nasty. Get well soon Iain.

Hi Sam,


usually I'm looking forward to seeing all the different bike set ups. This year I can't wait to see the trucks!

I'll have my Serow with me to use it for fitting on ther trucks.

Now where's that lotto win?

Regards

Reggie

Get well soon Iain

Regards Reggie

Great news! Iain is out of hospital! The road to recovery begins but he's sure he'll be sorted in time for the HUBB UK :thumbup1:

And while here, thought I'd mention. Just 37 days to go :D

That also means you've just 30 days left if you haven't booked and want to snag the last discounted rate. HUBB UK 2013 Donington Park - 30th May to 2nd June

So, what sort of things are happening at the HUBB UK this year, besides all the very excellent companies who have agreed to turn up with their kit. Well, we have some pretty special people presenting over the 4 days and over the next weeks I’d like to tell you a little more about some of them.

Let’s start off with Tom Allen. Tom is going to be showing his magical film Janapar. But what’s the film about? :thumbup1:

In 2007, Tom set off on his bicycle planning to cycle a lap of the world. 12,000 miles , three and a half years and 32 countries later he made it home. He’d travelled, Europe and West Asia to Armenia and then Iran, heading back to the Middle East, then continuing to the Horn of Africa and Moscow and Mongolia. Unexpected adventures filled the journey and they have made fascinating material for the film and his book. If you've a moment, you can have a very interesting time checking out this link to Tom and Janapar.

Who shall I pick on today? How about Chris Bright! World famous? No, but the quality of his photography should make him so. Chris is an endless motorcycle traveller and he’s pretty much always on a trip, or planning the next one - he gets to some rather rugged places too.

You can see what I mean by having a look at his website ‘TheBrightStuff’ and you can get more of a feel for the man by the dedication at the base of his home page – ‘This site is dedicated to the many great people whom I've met and have helped me on my travels around this wonderful planet. A special thanks goes out to my parents.’

Not only has Chris some stunning shots to share but he has a very dry sense of humour so watch out – if you make it into his presentation you’ll be double taking! :thumbup1:

Today, let’s talk fur, fire and fun! It's Danny and Fil with the Roadkill Cookout! If you've been to Horizons before then you'll know what a fascinating event this is.

New? You'll be learning how to hunt and gather food on the road, and how to prepare and eat it. :thumbup1:

First things first - catch your critters. Learn how to make a snare and set it
Next up, skinning, gutting and plucking. Then cooking in the campfire and smoking with smokey Fil

Making a special guest appearance this year is their 2013 mystery animal - any guesses?

Then the 'Rabbit skinning competition' (book your places with Danny and Fil early). Look out for the Schedule to find out what time this is happening.

Knives and rabbits supplied.

And get this - Fastest from 'Fur to Pot' wins a free weekend for 2 in the autumn at the Haggs Bank Bunk House in Cumbria. A cracking prize in a brand new venue. You’ll be one of the first to stay there!!!

This is a real highlight........ Not to be missed.

These guys deserve a massive pat on the back for what they bring to the HU meetings.

Tonight’s highlighted HUBB UK presenter is Simon Ward-Hastelow. Simon is the editor of Land Rover World magazine and he’s going to be hitting up a hot topic with his presentations.

Got children? Want to go travelling? Wrong to do isn’t it and anyway, how would you make it work. :helpsmilie:

Travelling with children is pure madness isn't it? But it can be a life changing experience and it’s one of those presentations where regardless of how you choose to travel, there are tops tips to share. :thumbup1:

To get to Simon's Blogg

You're all doing a FAB job (depiste various challenges and illness). I'm looking forward to planning who I want to see.
Is the schedule of activities / presentations available?

Hi Pheonix, many thanks for the thumbs up - been interesting times already :innocent: but its all buzzing along now and the pieces of the jigsaw are falling nicely into place! Phew!!! :thumbup1: Just 34 days to go.

Who are we writing about today? Mike Carter that’s who. If you are a motorcyclist you’ll almost certainly have heard about Mike and may well have read his book ‘Uneasy Rider’. Mike writes about his 20,000 miles journey around Europe as a pretty much novice biker. He reaches the four extremes of Europe: the Arctic Circle in the north, the Mediterranean coast in the south, the Portuguese Atlantic to the west and the Iraqi border of Turkey in the east.

And if you are a cyclist then you’ll probably know about his latest book ‘One Man and His Bike’. What would happen if you were cycling to the office and just kept on pedalling? Mike did just that. Following the Thames to the sea he set off on a 5,000 mile ride around the entire British coastline - the equivalent of London to Calcutta. Mike’s very funny style tells the tale of drunken priests, drag queens and gnome sanctuaries. Of meeting fellow travellers and the spirit of unbelievable kindness and generosity that convinced him that Britain is anything but broken. :thumbup1:

Check out more on Mike Carter here.

His presentation? Look out for the schedule! And, Mike will be book signing at the HUBB UK on Saturday and Sunday.

Would be nice indeed to have it a few days before, so a sort of planning can be made... even if plans are subject to change like we all know... :helpsmilie:

But don't feel pushed or rushed for this!

Iain needs to get better first so he's hopefully 100% in 4 weeks!

Morning :yes: Iain's going to make that happen - he's got the last work to do on it and then a few days before kick off he'll have it on line for us all to see.

100% fit? He'll be close to that with luck - might have to do the lifting and carrying for him though!!! :thumbup1:

Most motorcycle and expedition vehicle overlanders will probably not have heard of Danny Bent, and if you are one of those, prepare yourself to meet one of the characters of the world of overlanding. :thumbup1:

Let me give you just a taste of this decidedly witty traveller, presenter and author is about. When Danny cycled 15,000 kilometres from the UK to India to raise money for Action Aid, it was a decision that took twenty years and one minute! The one minute was when he was put on the spot by his pupils at school, and declared that the means was by bike, and he was going to India.

What he had signed up for was slogging along roads with trucks bearing down on him, unable to see and choking in the smog; shooting down treacherous descents with 100 foot drops, shaking with cold and too numb to brake; muscle burn and saddle sores; delirium and food poisoning; thirst and malnutrition; foul and insanitary conditions; life-threatening crises; obstructive border guards, crazed dogs and inquisitive passers-by...

A passionate, and at times decidedly outrageous presenter, Danny is completely inspirational. You can check out more on this Danny Bent link. What’s he going to be talking about at the HUBB UK? You have to be there to find out :innocent:

Man, this sounds sooooo good but alas I doubt I'll be able to afford it...and I'd bought a new tent and all in anticipation! Hope you all have a good time :scooter::thumbup1:

I'm sure I remember having money...once...in the past...the distant past...:frown::stormy::(

Guess I'll just have to look through my photos from previous HU events to pass the time :oops2:

Hi Senno, a real shame you can't make it over to the HUBB UK. Bummer you are skint. :(

Have a look in the autumn when we have the page up for next year. Nowt's been decided yet of course but I'd be very surprised if we don't do a well discounted rate again. Hopefully that'll get you with us in 2014.

The dates for your diary? 19th to 22nd of June.

Many thanks for the best wishes. :thumbup1:

Just had the news that Lois Pryce is going to joining us at the HUBB UK, and also that Nathan Millward is going to be with us too. Top stuff!

30 DAYS TO GO!!! :D And don't forget, if you've not pre registered and paid by the 23rd of May then you lose out on the £10 discount. That'd suck!

Hi Sam,

great to see that the Goddess of Serows, Lois Pryce, will be there.

She'll have to try out my third model of this fabulous little bike!

Our motley crew can usually be spotted with a line up of the little rascals and and loads of tall stories being told.

Regards

Reggie

Yep, good news Reggie. I don't think she's been in the country at the time of HU for the past couple of years. Bet you won't have a problem with getting her to try it out!!! :thumbup1:
And it's brilliant that you guys are all going to be at the HUBB UK. Looking forward to seeing you :mchappy::mchappy::mchappy::mchappy:

Hi Sam,

how could we miss our fave event of the year eh!

We'll be arriving on the Wednesday. How much camping area is there when compared with Ripley?

Regards

Reggie

Reggie, mate, there's no sight more joyous than you guys' trusty serows all lined up in a row. I've got a great pic somewhere of 'sunset over serowville' from a couple of years back.:mchappy:

You still got that black and yellow Brazillian (oor-er!) or have you moved onto another one?

Anyways hope you have anther good'un. :thumbup1:

She was definitely there last time I was, in 2011, as I recall propping up the bar with her for much of one night :) :thumbup1:

Fave event :thumbup1: :D:thumbup1:

Wed? Great stuff - feel like helping with set up? - we'll be on the scurry round :yes:

Camping? More or less double the size, far more level, water points, shady nooks, loo building in the camping field as well as in the showers and washing up area.

I think /hope/have fingers crossed that you are going to love it. Did you watch the walk around video on the HUBB UK Home Page? That'll give you a taste. Looking forward to seeing you guys!!!

Hi Senno,

I have an additional Serow which has been named as Team Bjerg, as she's come over via Denmark and that's the machne I'll be bringing 'Down to Doninington'!

Yeah we did get some great shots of the line up, let's hope we get soething similar this year eh.

Regards

Reggie

Hi Sam,

yeah I watched the video and it looks great.

You never know, once we've got Serowville sorted out, we may be able to offer you some assisitance. Afterall, that's what the event's all about.

See you there.

Regards

Reggie

Terrific! And yep, agree. Ethos of the road - everyone helps everyone else where at all possible. One of the reasons we all love travel so much eh :smile3:

It’s brilliant to have Morocco and GPS guru Tim Cullis back with us again. Tim’s past presentations have always gone down a storm and that’s no surprise. Tim’s first trip to this amazing land was way back in 1972 and you could say (with full British reserve) that he’s a repeat offender! :whistling: Tim is hugely knowledgeable and if you plan a trip to Morocco then you really ought to ignore the bar or any other presentations.

And as for GPS, how many of us have actually done a long road trip outside of Europe using one? This session of Tim’s gives you the chance to be on the road, in control. You’ll know what you need to do to set your kit up and how to take advantage of all the opportunities it offers you. Excellent! :thumbup:

For more on Tim, just click on his link on the HUBB UK Page.

You’ll find Zen Overland in the Adventure Travel Zone at the HUBB UK. But who are they?

The business was started in 2010 by Gabriel Bolton, about the same time he returned to the UK from an 18 month, 50,000 mile round the world trip. As a design Engineer by trade, it was a happy transfer from drawing up parts for industry and aerospace, to adventure bikes.

So what do Zen Overland do? They supply ‘high quality after-market accessories for off-road and adventure motorcycles’. They also carry out custom fabrication projects, and produce their own range of products.

Gabe says, ‘Zen Overland has grown fast over the last few years, and in early 2013 we moved into much larger premises. This has given us the chance to display most of the products we offer, and the increased workshop space has enabled us to take on more custom fabrication jobs.’

As well as selling bike stuff, they also ride, a lot! Gabe was extremely privileged to be part of the latest Austin Vince adventure; Mondo Sahara. He has also competed in the Baja desert race, took the road of bones to Magadan, and competes in UK rally, enduro and trial events.

They say, 'If you need something for your bike that no one else seems to offer, please do get in touch. We’ve done all kinds of projects, for all kinds of bikes.'

Sound good? Check them out at the HUBB UK this year.

Hi Sam,

what I want to know is will any of the traders will be stocking the Helinox Chair One? If they are then I need to get them to save me one for the event, if they're not then I need to order one from somewhere else before the event.

Of course I would prefer to support one of our show traders than some Ebay merchant!

What else will I need?

Well I fancy some more tools from the crew at Advnture Spec, so let's hope they come well stocked!

Regards

Reggie

Hi Reggie, none of the companies have said anything to me about doing so. Why don't you drop the most likely candidates a quick line. You may find that if they don't have any in stock they might order some in!

With luck the companies are all picking up on this anyway but belt and braces...

Very cool with your comment about supporting the companies who are coming. :thumbup1: We are repeatedly told that the event wouldn't be as good without all the kit to look at, and the guys on the stands to talk to. Nice to have the chance for some in depth conversations isn't it. Always easier to know you are buying the right stuff then eh.

Excellent news last night! bier Iain and I were talking things HUBB UK through with Grant and Susan - Grant's health is good; they'll both be with us all at Donington!!!! :thumbup:

We will arrive (if the channeltrains runs on time) on wednesday somewhere in the late afternoon - early evening - and if needed we can still lend you 4 hands after we set up our tent (as this will become a ritual for the next 6 months as the HUBB will be our official start for "a ride"...) :scooter:

Superb!!! What better place to start your trip! :D And your tent? Your new Home! :thumbup1:

Help? Yes please! We are still short of some helpers!!! I'll be posting on that shortly.

Looking forward to seeing you guys!

Volunteering? We still need some :helpsmilie:

If any of you guys are booked but haven’t signed up to volunteer, could I ask you to have a think about it. If you’ve been before then you’ll know how important people volunteering a few hours is with making the event happen with a friendly relaxed atmosphere.

And those hours are also a brilliant way of getting to know people if you’ve never been before.

If you’ve still to book, you’ll see the place to sign up to volunteer when you are booking in. Pre-Registration for Adventure Travellers - HUBB UK 2013 Donington Park

We are looking for a total of 150 volunteers – many hands make light work. :thumbup1: Thanks VERY much to everyone who has given a thumbs up so far.

All we need is for just 20 more people to say yes to helping for a couple of 2 hour slots and the roles are all covered. That’ll be a ‘Phew’ moment. :smile2:

The Crews we are short of people on are:

The Gate Crew – You’ll be the first point of contact that people arriving will have. As we are at a new venue and as so many people haven’t been before, this crew will make the difference between people being instantly welcome and knowing what they have to do next – or feeling like a square peg in a round hole.

Campsite Crew – This is a new Crew and its happening as a result of the move to Donington Park Farmhouse Hotel. It’s a much bigger site for us to play with and on and there needs to be a centre of information and a base for heading people out in the right direction. HUBB Zone? Presentation Rooms? Vehicle parking? Quiet camping area? And so on… The Real Ale bar too of course!

Skills Course – This course is aimed at building new motorcycle overlanders skills and we need a few more people who are skilled riders and good teachers to be able to help out.

Raffle Tickets sellers – We have some absolutely brilliant prizes lined up for the raffle – many thanks to everyone who is contributing a prize and I need to say that most are coming from the Adventure Travel companies that are going to be with us and to the ABRAC riders. Thanks all! But the money we collect in aid of Prostate cancer will be down to two other things – How easy it is for people to snag tickets, and how deep we are all prepared to dig! : ) Fancy flogging some tickets? Your help makes all the difference, and because people that come to an HU event are the sort of people they are, it’s not a hard task.

Presentation Crew – Last but not least. If you have really good IT skills and are used to setting up powerpoint presentations and the like then we could do with a few more people on this crew. The one thing is that you’ll be doing a fair number more hours on this crew but the bonus is that you are right there in the presentation rooms when it’s all happening. Many of the presenters are first timers and your job in part will be to help them get set up and make sure things run smoothly so they can concentrate on their presentation.

Fancy a go? Brilliant! Thanks very much! Here’s the Join the Volunteer Crew - HUBB UK 2013 Donington Park bier

This presentation from John May is going to get you thinking hard. For those of you who've been to HU before, you’ll have met John running the Slow Bike Race; he’s doing that again this year too!!! But I’m sidetracking! doh

John’s presentation is on a vital subject that too often doesn’t get thought about in anything like enough depth by travellers in the trip planning stage.

As John says, ‘Before doing a big trip we tend to spend loads of time and energy planning the route, thinking about what bike to take, picking the ideal tent and so on. But what scuppers most trips is the people stuff. We tend not to really consider the questions about why we are doing it in the first place and who to go with. Picking the right travelling companions is much more important than picking the right stove!’

This presentation is designed to join a lot of hugely important travel dots! Planning to travel with other people? Don’t miss this! :thumbup1:

What is this about? Is it a practical hands-on course with your own / hire bikes or presentation / class-room style?

Back in the saddle
 

Hi All,

Thanks very much for all the "get well soon" messages over the past week or two - really appreciate it. Healing up well now and getting back into the swing of things.

Sam's away for a few days at a rally in Paignton, so I'll be picking up where he left off earlier with updates and highlights about the event.

The presentation schedule is coming together and we're hoping to get a provisional version online in about a week or so for everyone to look at and start planning what sessions to go to. All the presenters need to see it first though (early next week) to make sure I haven't made any schoolboy errors.

Cheers

Iain

Skills Course
 

The Skills Course will be taking up a large area of slightly-sloping grass field at the venue (next to the HUBB Zone) and will be laid out with a variety of simple obstacles.

It'll be open twice a day, with supervision from Cogs Underwood and his volunteer crew, on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

The idea is that anyone with a motorcycle who wants to practice their slow-riding skills can spend time going round the course on their own bike.

It's specifically a slow-riding/skills area and not a race track.

Hope that answers the question.

Cheers

Iain

Workshops and Demonstrations
 

Sam's already highlighted the ever-popular RoadKill Cookout and the Skills Course, but there's going to be lots of other stuff happening beyond the regular presentations in the main rooms....

Slow Bike Race x 2

Don't think we've mentioned this recently. The Slow Bike Race is back again with a new twist for the new event: competitors will be able to take part on their own bikes. John May and his crew will be running two competitions this time around - one on the Friday morning for bikes of 550cc or under and another on the Saturday morning for those over 550cc. There'll be 27 places available in each knock-out competition. First-come first-served, so if you want to show-off your slow-riding skills make sure you sign-up for the competition as soon as you can once you're on-site.

Firelighting, Natural Navigation and Foraging

Kev Palmer from Woodland Ways, who many of you will have met at previous events, will be giving a number of hands-on bushcraft workshops on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday. He'll be covering practical on-the-road firelighting techniques, foraging for food around the grounds of the venue, and natural navigation.

Tyre Changing

The tyre changing demo has become an HU classic and this year Graham Matcham from Continental Tyres will be doing the honours. We've often had feedback after past events that people have missed out on the tyre changing because of other presentations they didn't want to miss, so the HUBB UK is going to have not just one, but two demo sessions. They'll be taking place in the HUBB Zone on the Thursday afternoon and in the middle of the day on the Saturday.

4x4 Bush Mechanics, Vehicle Choice and Winching and Recovery

The super-enthusiastic and experienced team from Frogs Island 4x4 will be giving practical demonstrations of 4x4 Bush Mechanics by their stand in the HUBB Zone, as well as hosting a debate/Q&A about choosing between a Land Rover and a Land Cruiser. Both sessions will be happening on the Friday and Saturday.

4x4 travellers will also be interested in the winching and recovery demo in the HUBB Zone being given on the Friday and Saturday by Simon Ward-Hastelow from Land Rover World. Actually this is a session that motorcyclists should look in on too - after all, one day it might be your bike that needs recovering from a muddy ditch by a friendly 4x4 with a winch!

Live Travel Cooking

The irrepressible and irreplaceable Matthew Cashmore will be entertaining and educating you on the Friday afternoon with his brand new session about practical travel cooking. What to take with you and how to rustle up some simple by tasty and nutritious meals while you're out on the road. The demo will be followed by a one-pot-challenge, where Matthew will cook whatever (edible) ingredients the audience brings along!

Yoga and Exercise for Adventure Travellers

Tori Lang has been supporting HU events with her Zen-like mastery of yoga for many years. This year there'll be an introductory session on the Friday afternoon followed by a have-a-go practical early on the Saturday evening. Bring along a mat if you'd like to take part and learn how some simple yoga moves can improve your posture, flexibility and overall riding/driving comfort.

With similar aims, but a different approach, Francis Maxey will be giving a workshop on the Saturday afternoon about exercise for travellers.

Trauma and Bikes

Dr Sarah Willcock and her colleagues will be giving a couple of hands-on sessions covering basic first aid skills and equipment appropriate to dealing with bone-breaking mishaps when you're far from medical help. Sarah will also be giving a presentation about tropical diseases and how to avoid getting sick in the first place. Although Sarah happens to be a biker (riding her Serow to the event), both these sessions will be invaluable to everyone regardless of your choice of transport.

Live Webchats with travellers around the world
 

We've done live webchat sessions a couple of times at past events, including a video link with Zebb and Henry in Kazakhstan the year before last (Zebb will be giving a 'Stans That Deliver presentation at HUBB UK).

This year we'll be offering prayers to the technology gods and crossing a lot of fingers as we try to pull off six separate live links with some well-known adventure travellers - all of whom are Jupiter's Travellers or advisors to The Ted Simon Foundation.

Based on the provisional schedule as it currently stands, the plan includes sessions on the Friday with Simon and Lisa Thomas in New Zealand, Merv Colton and Sarah Cooper somewhere in South America, plus Sandy, Terry and young Jack Borden in Arizona. Then on the Saturday morning there'll be Graham Field in Turkey (probably) and Danielle Murdoch in South Africa.

The biggest challenge - and a huge privilege for HU - will be connecting with Sarah Outen on the Saturday evening. Sarah is two years into a human-powered loop around the world, already having travelled from London to Japan by kayak and bicycle. About six days ago she set off from Japan in the direction of Canada - rowing solo across the Pacific. If the satellite connection holds up and Sarah isn't dealing with adverse sea conditions at the time, we'll be able to talk to her in the cabin of "Happy Socks".

Start thinking now about the questions you'd like to ask all these travellers about the experience of their journeys - it'll be a unique and no doubt entertaining opportunity.

Open Discussion Sessions
 

Those of you already pre-registered to attend HUBB UK will have seen we've been running a poll to find out which region of the world you'd most like to be the subject of an open discussion at the event.

The 'winning' region by quite some margin is "Russia, the 'Stans and Mongolia" - so we'll be dedicating a double session to it on the Friday morning.

There won't be a panel or a presentation (though we may put some topic ideas up on screen to help things along) - just a gathering of folk who've travelled eastward, or have plans in that direction, and the opportunity to share highlights, information, tips and advice.

We'll also be reprising the long-standing "Women Only" double session on the Friday afternoon, which will be moderated by Susan Johnson and Chris Keane. Strictly no boys allowed! It's been a well-attended part of HU events for many years, although exactly what gets talked about remains a complete mystery to those of us on the testosterone side of the hormonal divide.

I imagine those of us on the testosterone side of the hormonal divide probably get mentioned a bit ;)

Now, what's the qualification here? :mellow:
I'm two years on whatever side of the divide this has steered me. Will the door policy take account? Or will there be 'pat-downs'? ?c?
(PS - everything looks successful - and no complaints here about 'side effects') :thumbup1:

Looking forward to the meet.

By the way, the sponsored charity has kindly given me one of these -

http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ps43991035.jpg

-----------------------------
Well, it made me laugh when I saw it - "I'll have one of those!" I thought, "Keep it with my bus pass."

I'll bring it to Donington - if the beeris good I might have to flash it...... :eek3:

.

Pecha Kucha Presentations
 

25 days to go! :)

One of the many things we're introducing for the first time at the HUBB UK event is the "Pecha Kucha" style of presentation.

It gets pronounced different ways (we'll go with petcha-koocha), but the format is simple: the presenter has just 20 slides, each of which stays on screen for exactly 20 seconds before automatically moving on to the next. No going back!

As things currently stand, the brave souls who've volunteered to present in this fast-paced format are:

- Stephen Golub
- Jupiter's Traveller, Claudio Gnypek
- Juliet Macve
- Andy Robinson
- ABRAC organiser, Will Wilkins
- Simon Ward-Hastelow
- Patrick Garrod
- Motorcycle Outreach
- Frogs Island 4x4
- Kaapstad Motorcycle Adventure Tours
- Pro-Oiler
- Stahlkoffer

The Pecha Kucha presentations will all be happening on the Friday and Saturday, with two or three back-to-back in each session. Audience participation will be encouraged! ;)

You'll get to see the full menu of topics when the schedule goes online in a week or so, but they range from travelling with your family, to the Mongol Rally, riding out west, zen and the art of motorcycle lobbying, and overlanding in groups. For the companies taking part, it'll be their opportunity to explain what they they do and why you should use them.

Oh boy... I forgot that I'm doing a presentation of my South America trip...

Oh boy, I just remembered I lost most of my photos when my camera was stolen.

Oh boy, I need to get writing......

I might just end up playing the tamborine or something.

Just bring the 'bear' necessities Ted!

Carnet Masterclass + Map Donations
 

Those of you planning new adventures and grappling with the subject of the venerable Carnet de Passage will be pleased to hear that the RAC are going to be giving a Carnet masterclass at the event - provisionally planned for the Friday afternoon.

It'll be a great opportunity to quiz the experts on where you need a Carnet, what to do with once you've got it, renewals, costs and what to expect from the application process.

On a completely different subject.... if anyone has any fold-out Michelin (or similar) maps they'd be willing to donate to the event we'd be very grateful. We've already got world maps and Michelin maps covering Africa, but South America and Russia, the 'Stans and Mongolia (and anywhere else) would be really useful. If you do have a map you'd be happy to part with, please bring it along and drop it off at the Registration Tent when you arrive. Muchos gracias!

I hope one of the trade stands has a Kriega Hydro 3 with them, please put one aside for me!

Why does technology overtake enjoyment ???????

Adventure Travel Photography and Film-Making
 

Everyone wants to take better photos of their journeys, so we've got a double-whammy of sessions on the Friday afternoon from professional photographers about how to do just that.

It'll begin with Seb Leeson giving a talk on how to take better pictures without expensive equipment. Seb will cover the technicalities of how a camera actually works before moving on to demonstrate the what makes a good vs bad photo. He'll then go on to practical tips for using some of the more popular cameras, together with using a tripod and wireless transmitter for action photos.

Immediately after Seb's session, Ken and Kristina Binns will take over with a workshop session out and about around the venue with the aim of helping you create more satisfying results with your camera by improving your skills through practice.

By looking at subject opportunities around the grounds, the workshop will cover things like deciding how to compose the image, what is the appropriate exposure using the camera controls, how to analyse the image before and after, and how to quickly problem solve when the result is not what was expected.

And then for those of you with an interest in film-making, we're really lucky to have Austin Vince, Tom Allen and James Newton sharing their expertise with informative and entertaining sessions - provisionally scheduled for the Friday and Saturday.

Prostate Cancer Raffle
 

Hello,

Once again we will be holding our raffle in aid of our nominated charity, Prostate Cancer, at the 2013 HUBB UK event.

We have some really fab prizes lined up for you already but we are always on the look out for a few more.

If you have any new kit laying around that you don't want, perhaps an unwanted gift or something you never got round to fitting, please bring it along to the meet (or message me and I will give you my address to send it to me if it is easier).

Or if you have any bike shops or dealers in your area that you think you could convince to donate a prize then that would be fab!

The other thing I'm looking for is people who will be at HUBB UK this year that would get a warm fuzzy feeling from donating an hour or two of their time to sell some raffle tickets. If you would like to then please let me know - either on here or come and find me at the event.

I'm really hoping to smash last year's 'total raised' amount so any help would be greatly appreciated :clap:

Is there an event schedule/itinerary yet? Can't seem to find it if there is. bier

When I'm settled in, I'll come and search you out sometime. See if I can twirl raffle tickets with a pair of spanners and wrench money out of good folks. :hammer:

Here's just one of the many types of treatments that Prostate Cancer UK help chaps like me come to terms with - every weekday for about 7 weeks:



My blog on this site is a bit old and rambling now (time for an update methinks), so here are two past entries.


Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers' Stories - Ken Thomas


Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers' Stories - Ken Thomas


I've tried to offer an irreverent account of the diagnosis and treatment process, and how, with good expert help, it can be considered as 'just another adventure.....' :mchappy:

.

Nearly
 

Not yet Stephen. I sent a draft version out to all the presenters this afternoon for them to check and comment on by the end of this week. Once I've had all the feedback and made whatever changes are necessary (hopefully not many!) I'll finalise the schedule and make it available online for everyone to see.

Will post on here (and Facebook and Twitter) when it's done.

Great, thanks for the support.

I look forward to meeting you, I should be central most of the time, but if you can't find me, just find someone with a radio and get them to give me a call :)

Hi Sam,

well I searched everyone of the websites of the exhibitors and not one had the Helinox chair.

So if I can't buy one from them can anyone else direct me to a UK seller (not Ebay) for a Helinox Chair One?

Regards

Reggie

Google
 

Amazon, Blacks, Complete Outdoors and others. Plenty show up via a Google search.

Podcast Interviews
 

Jupiter's Traveller, and Pecha Kucha presenter, Claudio Gnypek from Germany is going to be recording a couple of podcasts during the event - made up of interviews with overlanders.

If you have an interesting story to tell and fancy being immortalised in audio, look out for Claudio wandering around with microphone in hand.

Best laid plans and silver linings
 

The other day I posted about a winching and recovery workshop, plus a Carnet masterclass from the RAC.

We've just had last-minute news that neither of those sessions will be going ahead. Circumstances beyond our control 'n' all that.

There's always a silver lining though.... the spaces vacated in the schedule will be filled by Grant Johnson giving a workshop on motorcycle ergonomics and Ed March reprising his highly-entertaining Malaysia to UK presentation.

Ed will also be stealing the show on the Friday night with a brand new presentation about his recent C90 adventure to the Arctic Circle.

Hi Iain,

ordered, ta.

Regards

Reggie

Just popped up to say thanks to everyone who has volunteered to help since I posted my request. :clap: Brilliant!!!

We now need just 7 people who don't mind doing 2 shifts of just 2 hours! Any takers? PM Me please so I can have a natter about what's to do.

It's the best way to meet people and of course you'll get that warm glow that will come from helping for a few hours bier

Presentation Schedule Now Online
 

Time to get planning how you'll spend your time at the event....

The presentation schedule is now complete and available to download as a PDF from the HUBB UK event page (look for the link under the list of presenters).

This is the final version and won't be changing before the event. However, please don't hold our feet to the fire (as Grant would say) if things change at the very last minute during the event itself - e.g. if a presenter doesn't turn up or if an outside session has to be cancelled/moved due to the weather.

Apologies by the way that the PDF may cause a little eye-strain when printed at A4 size. At the event we'll have it displayed big and bold and easier to read in various places around the site. :)

Thanks to you, Ian, Sam and everyone behind the scenes for the work on this. It's looking excellent. This is the first year I can come to every day; I'm not sure there will be enough time to look at everyone else's bike there's so much I want to go to!

Thanks again.

Not long now...
 

By this time two weeks from today, event setup will be underway at the Donington Park Farmhouse venue. We'll have everything up and running by 9am on Thursday 30th, with the first presentations kicking off at 2pm.

The Registration Tent will be open from 9am on the Wednesday for early arrivals, trade companies and all those with places in the HUBB Zone.

Don't forget that there are now just 10 days left to pre-register at the last of the discounted rates (£65) if you haven't already booked to be there. Online pre-registration will close at 9pm (UK time) on 23rd May.