|
Diamond Lake
We arrived at Diamond Lake by accident, we didn’t even know about it until we saw a road sign! ..... that looks OK so we will go there :D
Because it was getting cold and the Americans don’t go camping very much after October, most camping grounds are closing and the only one we found in the area before dark was the Diamond Lake camping ground which is our favourite campground. :huh :evil This is our site, note autumn colours, me doing so electrical testing http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...0Lake/file.jpg David and Kathleens trailer http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ake/file-2.jpg It was only 80 miles (144K) west of Crater Lake. The camping ground is huge -- half of it has closed, the other half, from the entry gate to where we set up our camp would be 3/4 mile. It has a hot shower, heated toilets, outside the camp (lucky it was at our end) about 500m away is a fishing village, a general store and lodge which offers free wifi. Our neighbours David and Kathleen from south California were traveling in their big trailer. They picked up a Taiwanese girl Justine (20 something year old) who just finished working in the Glacier National Park now riding a push bike in America. They camped in Diamond Lake for 3 days, did some fishing. Justine had never fished in her life, she caught the biggest trout among the three of them, talk about beginner’s luck. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ke/file-38.jpg We sat at the camp fire with them and exchanged traveling stories. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ke/file-12.jpg The next day, Ellen got up in the morning went for a run, she came back and we decided to stay for another day - It’s got every thing we need, why not! Then Kathleen invited us to their warm trailer (out side was -3 degree .... below zero!) for a coffee. As the morning went, the sun came out, lots of people arriving for a fishing competition, the camping ground was filling up real quick. David and Kathleen decided to make a move. We said goodbyes and went for a walk along the lake ourselves. Of course, pictures will do the talking. Beautiful autumn colours http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ake/file-3.jpg Some moss on the trees http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ake/file-4.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ke/file-11.jpg This is Mount Thielson, pretty coul!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ke/file-10.jpg :evil We came back to the camp later in the afternoon and the Ranger had come around telling people there would be 2 - 3 inches of rain in the next two days. :eek1 It’s time to go... |
Coquille To San Fran
Umpqua highway To Bandon
On packing up in the morning we headed along the Umpqua highway which was loaded with twisties and a neat ride, a quick stop in Roseburg for food and supplies and we hit the road to Bandon, we took a dodgy wee back road called Coos Bay Wagon Road which turned to shingle and a bit of mud and was beautiful with trees, river waterfalls and all, an excellent accidental choice.... no pics tho :cry 3pm in the afternoon, we arrived a place called Coquille. It was sunny and warm, considering the forecast, we decided to call it quits early so we could take the advantage of the sun and dry the tent out before putting all our gear. We had a few visitors come and chat to us who were interested in the bikes which was cool. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lle/file-3.jpg Were we set up camp was right next to blackberry bushes and they were choca with berries, Ellen and I scoffed ourselves silly ... we looked like a coupla kids in a candy shop. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...uille/file.jpg The berries were perfect and beautifully flavoured, after tea (dinner) we walked into town to get some yoghurt for breaky so we could have blackberries with yoghurt. The walk into town and back proved to be a heap of fun and really interesting, we stopped into a second hand shop could have been anywhere in New Zealand. There is a big mural on a wall too, very well done. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lle/file-8.jpg I stopped to pat the horses .... their hair was hard than our horses in New Zealand http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lle/file-9.jpg On returning to camp we had a visit from Mr.Plod, just checkin us out, once he established who we were he said he would come back and keep an eye out for us, that was really neat. In the morning Mr.Plod’s offsider came over and said gidday too, very cool of them to look out for us. I also spotted two leafs suspended from a strand of spiderman wire ... I would hate to see the big mofo spider that spun it!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lle/file-5.jpg Magic :evil http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lle/file-4.jpg We managed to pack up in the dry but with ominous clouds watching down on us closely, the road to Bandon was a nice back road and mum nature did give a wee shower or two. We carried on down 101 to Golden Beach where we had lunch at a romantic toilet block, it was miserable and wet, we both layered up one extra as the fog and rain was chilly, our mission was to get down to the drive thru tree which we did. At that point our day took a huge change when we met up with Craig and Sharon from Oz on a KTM990 Adventure who had travelled throughout all Europe, the Stans, Russia etc so were a wealth of info. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...od/file-26.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ood/file-4.jpg We had a chat and decided to set up camp together which turned out to be very beneficial as the campsite inside the Redwood National Park was $35.00 fookin dollars ...hmmmm. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...od/file-15.jpg After trying to get to a closed camp we backtracked five miles where we set up, great chats, food and travel stories were talked, everything cool about adventure travel!!! Before we all set off the big Redwoods were calling, stunning autumn colours. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...od/file-14.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...od/file-16.jpg And of course another big f#$*^@g tree http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...od/file-19.jpg The following day we left our own ways knowing we would hold them up, we also knew we would catch them again at the HU meeting in Cambria. In the morning we set of for the “Avenue Of Giants” (nothing new for Ellen and I cos bein short everything is giant), this was a nice deviation from 101 heading south to 1. The is "The Immortal Tree" which has withstood floods of epic proportions, monster fires, the human axe and asian eyes :eek1 .... note the fish up the tree was the flood line :eek1 :eek1 http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...od/file-30.jpg We did the touristy thing .... both of us http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...od/file-27.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...od/file-29.jpg Highway 1 was recommended and calling our name, the road was tight, twisty and beautiful and comes highly recommended.... no gravel tho. Camp was beside the sea at a place called Westport and we had about an hour before the sun went down so a walk along the beach was in order... here is a pic of my bum!!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...0CA/file-2.jpg The beach, first beach side camping we had done on our trip http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...%20CA/file.jpg This is also where we met John and Rebecca, we had passed them twice earlier in the day, twice they pulled over in pullouts to let us past. Ellen and I saw them at camp setting up so being appreciative motorcyclists we went over and said hey thanks for letting us go past safely earlier .... and it all went from there. With the ice broken from their good natured driving earlier and our thanks it was easy to make new friends, chats were had around the camp fire (again) Rebecca kindly took care of the smoke which followed her all night ... onya chick!! Turns out they live and work on the road in their fifth wheeler and the setup they had was mint. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...0CA/file-3.jpg Later that evening another ADVer pulled into camp, we had a quick chat and offered to halve our camp as we had the only flat bit of grass and with the cost it was sensible to share too. Fog rolled in thick and fast and was heavily laden with moisture, our tent in the morning looked like it had been through a rain storm, everything was damp. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...CA/file-15.jpg Justin (the ADVer) insisted on paying for our camp too to help our budget (we still owe you that coffee Justin....come to Ushuaia to get it), very nice indeed, Justin was also heading to the HU meeting as well via a different route to us. Heading off with our soggy tent under wraps San Fran was our destination to catch up with Spidey (Warren) and his good lady Chris. 1 was clear further down after riding in pea soup for an hour or so, I keep an eye out for Ellen all the time and she kept appearing then disappearing with differing thicknesses of soup in the air. The last part was very windy pushing and shoving us all over the road which made it difficult, you either get no wind and fog or wind and a view ... take you pick of poison. San Fran wasn’t too bad to get into with Mrs.Garmin sending us pretty directly with all avoidances disabled, the famous car chase streets providing some great stop start rider training for Ellen and making me keep my mind on the job. Spideys house is on a step section so I made sure I was parked and ready for Ellen in case her landing didn’t work out, coming from the top down made it easier so no dramas there ... luckily cos we were both tired from fighting the wind earlier. San Fran next. |
San Fran
Spelt it short cos I can’t remember how to spell it. :evil
So, we arrived safe and well, bloke hugs and chick hugs were had, very welcoming. :clap Bikes were rolled into the dark corner of the shed so as not to bring the neighbourhood down with Two Dodgy Kiwis yello terras. Showers were in order, washing done, wine consumed and big catchups about life. Warren and Chris had two new additions to their family since we were last there, Ziv their daughter is 4 and Nadav who was about to turn 2 years old the day after we left. Ziv, the boss!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ran/file-7.jpg Chris and Nadav, http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-10.jpg The last time we caught up with Warren and Chris was 2007 after World Ducati Week so big changes since then for them, well done guys, we look forward to seeing you again. Warren had some time off work which was mint so we went out and did the blokes thing of hovering around motorcycle shops looking at everything we couldn’t afford ... it was fun, we were treated to a cafe racer that started its life as a but ugly Suzuki 650 Intruder, this thing put a capital G on Groovy!!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...0CA/file-7.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...0CA/file-9.jpg Also spotted ... NEVER leave home without your camera :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...CA/file-14.jpg My Phone Earlier in the piece (coupla weeks back) my Sonim phone had a wee woops, I contacted Sonim asking to get it fixed, they sent back the form saying no problem, just need proof of purchase and the usual stuff ..... ouwh no, my proof of purchase is 10000 miles away in NZ !!! I wrote back saying any chance we can bend the rules being we are RTW bikers and don’t have my proof of purchase with me, I also added I would welcome their inspection to verify it had not been badly treated/abused etc. Sonim customer service rang back and gave me three names, a phone number and an address to go to just out of San Fran, we contacted them and headed to the address as it was only 20 minutes away. Large glass fronted building looking down on us is what we arrived at, we had been sent to Sonims Corporate Office .... ok.....lets go in. Warren and I were introduced to Christoph who said sorry about the trouble with your phone, he looked at it and said hang on I will be back in a minute, he returned with a new 3300 phone and gave it to me ...... hmmmm. My morning started out as how to get my phone repaired to here is a new one and sorry for the inconvenience, also the 3300 was a slight upgrade on my XP3.2 Quest Pro, these guys took customer service to a new level, thank you Sonim. Given the above this is a shameless plug for guys who steeped out of the daily system to help a stranger in need. If you guys are looking for an adventure biker style phone take a good look at Sonim, up to 24 hours talk time and 800 hours standby time (over a month on standby!!). http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-17.jpg It has LED torch and waterproof as well as many other features that make this a damn good phone for adventure biking communication. Thank you Sonim!!!, find them here. Welcome to Sonim Technologies - Maker of the World's Toughest Phones Or their home page with plenty of other goodies to choose from Welcome to Sonim Technologies - Maker of the World's Toughest Phones Warren and I headed to In and Out as my treat for him running me down to Sonims office then back home to make sure Ellen hadn’t bought too much on the net, the afternoon was simply stunning so we made the most of it going up to twin peaks tower lookout point over San Fran. Some views from the top, famous San Fran Golden Gate Bridge http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...0Fran/file.jpg Alcatraz (Spanish for Pelican) http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ran/file-2.jpg San Fran central, looking down Market Street http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ran/file-5.jpg Mumblings of a coffee echoed amongst the crew so we found ourselves sitting outside Martha & Bros which Warren recommended ... and he was right. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ran/file-6.jpg After that we headed home for a B B Q and wine, talk about living it up and a good evening was had by all. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ran/file-8.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-14.jpg View from their kitchen http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-15.jpg The following morning we hit the exit button and back to reality, destination Cambria to the Horizons Unlimited Travelers meeting ... Yay!!! We headed down 101 along the seaside then turned inland to pick up 9 and down through twisties and trees, outstanding bit of road I must say. When 9 finished we carried on down on 1 again, would have to add at this point we believe (some) Californian drivers take the cake for being the most arrogant, selfish and disrespectful drivers we have ever encountered doing 28 mph in a 55 mph zone passing pullout after pullout and sign after sign saying slower drivers use pullouts and holding up lines of traffic at least 30 cars plus that we could see ..... WTF ... CHP need to deal with these people. Back to the usual program now, Cambria was in our sights and we were happy to get off the road. Arriving at Cambria we took a wrong turn, Ellen tried doing a U turn and failed laying Chiwi down for a rest. We registered and got setup, we were in heaven, surrounded by motorcycle travelers from around the world. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-26.jpg |
Horizons Unlimited Cambria Meeting
So much to do and see, so many people to talk to and so much information to be gained .... overload head syndrome to start with but we settled in nicely and started going to presentations, absolutely mint!!
http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ing/file-2.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ing/file-3.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-14.jpg Both Ellen and I were presenters too, Ellens presentation was “The stuff no one wants to talk about”, Ellen had the crowd of 70 - 80 people in roars of laughter talking about our scraps on the Denali Highway and White Rim Trail, I was up the front watching many other couples nodding and acknowledging the same sort of difficulties we had encountered in our new normal life which is not ALL beer and skittles. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-42.jpg It was nice to know that Ellen and I had encountered similar difficulties to others and that we were not alone, the key thing is we are now stronger for using it as a learning experience and recoginzing that if no one dies then the rest of material damage can be solved and sorted out and the main thing is to learn and move up a rung on the ladder rather than fall off and throw it all away. Many other presentations we went to were very informative and great so for us it was extremely worth while and great fun, we also met other travelers heading to South America on pretty much similar time tables as us, we will undoubtedly cross paths and we be support crew, help etc along the way when needed, nice to have familiar faces. My presentation was DR650 setup keeping it narrow and setting up for longitudinally challenged humans, this was a great success sharing our information with others, as I hate public speaking I kept it low key and more interactive with our bikes being that people could sit on them etc, this worked very well. :clap http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-29.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-32.jpg After three days of presentations, meeting great people, talking bikes, travel, destinations it was time to leave, destination Fresno to do a LOT of bike work. We packed up and were pretty much the last to leave after getting photos with various people, some famous, some just like us. Famous people .... Ted Simon ... not us!!!:D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-39.jpg Dr. Frazier http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ing/file-5.jpg Grant and Susan Johnson, Hubb Mum and Dad!!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-40.jpg A HUGE thanks to Grant and Susan Johnson and ALL the helpers plus all the presenters who really make the event, we came away buzzing and not wanting to leave, something that seems to happen quite a bit when traveling.. Here are some general pics of people and bikes Iain and Debs in their sidecar http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...eting/file.jpg Ellen in a Ural http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-13.jpg Ellens dream bike with a MTB!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-15.jpg Another international traveler http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-21.jpg An owl http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ing/file-8.jpg Sun going down through the trees http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-34.jpg Finally, Iain and Debs, Craig and Sharon, Will English and us http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-23.jpg |
Great RR and amazing pictures !!!
Hopefully we meet on the road somewhere in Mexico . |
Quote:
We are planning +/- 2 months in Mexico, we are going to take 1 month out in Guatemala to do Spanish lessons as well. |
Bike woes
Becoming a common sight!! :cry
http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ail/file-1.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ail/file-2.jpg 3rd gear ,shaft and bearings being replaced. :thumbdown:, seems it was assembled wrongly last time! doh |
Quote:
|
Quote:
|
Quote:
Quote:
Anyways, hope you guys get back on the road soon. Safe journeys! |
Once again an entertaining eposode.
Very much enjoying reading your travels,To date ive not attended a hu meet ,but will make extra effort after seeing your post.Noel:D
|
Andi' bike has fixed
Just came back from Lodi, we received an email from Clawson at 4:40pm, they have fixed our bike. We can leave tomorrow, there is no need to visa extension anymore, WooHoo:clap:clap:clap
Andi is on the way picking up the bike.... |
Hang on a minute, there is an other story
My bike was fixed earlier which took the heat out of the B2 Visa saga.
When the bike was fixed up north the dealership through out washable stainless steel oil filter after instructions not to through it. So tonight I checked just to make sure rather than getting in Mexico and finding out it was accidentally thrown oil, oil puked out of the oil filter case which it is not supposed to do???? On inspection the oil is full of fine metal and very shiny :cry , bike done 10 miles since at the dealership. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...sno/file-2.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...sno/file-1.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...resno/file.jpg Back to the dealership tomorrow. :huh |
The B2 VISA Saga FFS
The VISA B2 Saga, so this is the pinnacle of excellent US intellectual bureaucratic bullshit, read on and have a larf as there quite simply is no other wau to look at it.
Ok, due to my bike needing serious work again we took it in to Fresno as when we leave the USA our warrantee is over. Clawson Suzuki in Fresno took it apart and established the problem which appears to be incorrect assembly when it was last put back together from its first failure, the parts we established will not be in until November 1st, our B2 VISA expires November 2nd. We have gone out of our way with USCIS, US Immigration and NZ Consulate, not one of these organisations say they can help ..... WTF you are kidding??? So Monday Oct 29th we go to Sacramento to 656 Capital Ave to the big office. On entering the building the guard required ID, so we showed him our drivers licence, he needed our passports which we had so no worries at all, shoes off, no cameras so Trevor said hey I will look after them down here, belts etc off no worries and up we go. We talked to a very nice lady at the counter who booked us an interview straight away, looked like we were making progress. We also got the information pamphlet for Trevor a fello ADVer so I took that down to the lobby where he was waiting and told him we will be having an interview shortly so will meet him back down there in say 20 minutes. I went back into the foyer and the same guard said, I need ID ... well that is when the fight started. :rofl:huh:eek1 Me = Me, G = Guard G, I need ID Me, here is my licence again G, I need your passport Me, my passport is upstairs with my wife waiting for our interview G, well you can’t come in Me, but you have seen my passport only two minutes ago along with our drivers licence G, but you don’t have your passport Me, you saw it 2 minutes ago, I am still me and haven’t changed!!. G, but you don’t have it now. Me, what, you are kidding??? G, (straight face), please step outside to the lobby Me, FFS, G, I will call someone down Me, thanks 10 minutes goes by... no-one has come down one floor Me, walk back in to guard, where is someone? G, no-one came down Me, well call them again please as I am supposed to be in an interview G, ouwh ok, please step outside to the lobby Me .... you’re kidding?? but I will go outside 10 more minutes lady appears G, this is him (pointing at me) So the Lady says we can’t find anyone for you, I say my wife is upstairs with my passport that he saw prior, I present her with both our drivers licences. I say please look for her, this is what she looks like, same photo on her licence as her passport, same for me, she says to the guard you won’t let him through but you saw his passport?, guard says yes but he does not have his passport. Lady, but you have seen it G, yes Lady, why won’t you let him through G, he doesn’t have his passport with him Me, stunned look in amazement at this guys lack of logic, common sense is not that common and we now have living proof. Lady, are you serious?, he (me) can come with me G .... pissed off as overridden by Lady. Me, stunned that this shit was even happening So that is how the efficient US government machine works to help people out, I would expect shit like this from a 3rd world border, different language places but not here in english speaking educated US, land of the free unless you are here. We have tried our best to get an extension/dispensation for the one or two days we may be over our VISA due to circumstance beyond our control and unforeseen only to yet again be trashed by stupid US rules and regs with NO-ONE from ANY organization having any power to help or take control, we are stunned. Grump over but my mind cannot comprehend this weird system you mericans have in place, after battling like hell to do everything right at our expense I am now not sure if I want to come back to the US unless shit like this gets changed to normality...it does not have to be that hard. |
Guy's for what its worth i think they employ "special people" for the borders Etc
we were held up for over an hour at canadian/U.S border because one guy missed ,answering a question .1994 one bus load of Aussies,kiwi's,danes,germans,english,irish.farming exchange students.morons common sense non existant.wish you well with the repairs,would not have dreamed you could have so much trouble with new bikes.Ive a honda Varadero that ive had for 12 years and out side of a fuel pump ($100) and a set of fork seals,Nothing, thats it!!Ah it will probably die now ive said that.Any hoo may the force be with you.Noel:thumbup1:
|
Back At The Dealer
We turned up on their doorstep at 8.00am, they took my bike in and said they would drain the oil which they did, they removed the filter as well.
This is what came out, this is 10 miles worth, i.e. from dealer to Shanns then back to dealer. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...sno/file-3.jpg They put new oil in and a Suzuki factory paper filter claiming my washable stainless filter was not good enough.:huh Their tech took it for a 6 mile ride, came back pulled the sump bung and filter, the filter was grey with an alloy/bronze look about it. I could repost the picture above and it would be no different to that. Their manager fello chimed in saying that something was definitely wrong (no shit) so they are pulling it apart again. 3rd gear still grizzles and the shit continues, I asked if they could get Suzuki to just replace the engine complete as they have spent more trying to fix it than the bike is worth, we have now been off the road with failures for more than 25% of our trip and it is costing us money and time now not to mention stress having to deal with immigration or more to the point irritation. Now we play the waiting game again, another two weeks? who knows. Can a shitty day get worse, yes is the answer to that with the destruction of my 1 month old G9 communication set. I am about ready to pack it all in and go home. :cry, I am out for a walk to consider my options now. |
Out of adversity comes the need for success, I'm sure it'll sort itself out! The bike has been a right PITA, unbelievable, were heading to BA at the end of Nov and heading North (from TDF) after New year, hopefully meet you on the road!
Don't go home, it'll be one less person to have a beerwith! Gino & Fiona |
We Are Running Again....
Hi guys
The dealership rang and said it was ready.... this seemed unusual to me given what we had seen. They had 5 of them looking at it and trying to sort it out, the tech who did it returned and told them what he had done. We arrive at the dealership, the service manager took us out the back and explained that they had used Belray grease on the shift lever and gears. He mixed up some oil and some Belray grease and made it look very similar to the mix in the pan, the tech must have used half a tube of grease as three oil changes later it still looks the same, they asure me it is fine. The good news is that seems to be the oil/metal problem, the bad news is 3rd gear still screams unnaturally loud but they say it is fine, they did replace the 4 bearings as they were quote gritty, circlips, seals, gaskets etc and the piston rings. I am hopeful this is the last time the bike is in the shop for repairs, I don't mind bits and pieces but engines out are BANNED. Up till today Suzuki have spent is excess of the value of the bike just in the motor and kept us off the road for more than 25% of our trip so far. I still have my reliable DR650 at home which we built our adventure on, will I buy another Suzuki ,well I wanted to buy a DRZ 400 when I return home, I think this will change. I had my KTM990 which was flawless so I think I will stick with orange. On our TMK site I have called them Weapons Of Choice, at the moment I would change that to The Pieces Of Shit We Ended Up With, as you can tell I am angry at Suzuki for letting this unfold ridiculously long and it would seem this current round was the result of Lelands misfitting parts. Anyway, on a positive note we are on our way tomorrow morning, we have reference stuff from Clawson Suzuki showing dates etc so Immigration/Irritation, homeland sec, consulates etc can deal with it as we have gone out of our way to make it right with no help from any departments and if they are still upset with us well there are plenty of other places to ride the world who will want our contribution to their economy. I will say thank you to Josh from Clawsons, he has pulled the blocks to make it happen as best he can given the time frame, the seem to be te only good guys we have dealt with. |
Looking good you too. Glad to hear that the bike is sorted out. Not so glad to hear about the troubles with our gov....of course, if its any consolation, us residents deal with the same amount of bullshit from them every day. (2hours yesterday in DMV to walk up to the counter and turn in my updated medical paperwork for my drivers license).
Ill hoist up a glass of whiskey to a trouble free trip from here on out. Good to meet you both in Cambria, Ill have to pass on that coffee though, Ushuaia is just a little out of my budget right now. :( |
Lodi and Sacramento
We are running into some bad lucks today, broken G9, bike was back to the dealer ship, but as Andi always says : No one died. We just have to harden the F up, and carry on living.
We were so focused on the bike, haven’t had a chance to thank Doug and Janet from Lodi who took care of us for the last few days. and I know Andi would not have time to check my grammar and spellings today, so please put up with some Chiwi English. Thank you Doug and Janet on behalf of Two Moto Kiwis. While Hobbit was in Clawson waiting for the parts for the third gear, we received a PM from a fellow ADVer, he wrote: “See you are in Fresno with bike issues.I am 2 hours north in Lodi. Not sure what direction you are headed next but spare room available and willing to assist any way I can.” This is our wonderful host Doug - Photoed by Dan http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-54.jpg We replied him and told him our situation, then he wrote back: “ I offer a couple ideas. 1, I have an 08 DR650 I can loan you, happy to deliver it to Fresno , then you can ride where you want; I can come get you (and the OK bike) and bring you here, then you can borrow my GMC Yukon or the DR650 and go where ever you like. Happy to deliver you back to Fresno when your bike is ready. I'm only a phone call away.” What a nice man. We jumped on Chiwi (she has been reliable) come down to Lodi to meet Doug. Boy he took us under his wings and make us feel welcome. The next day, Doug and Janet took us for a tiki tour around his district. There are a few wineries (can’t you believe it?) around that area, with the local knowledge, we went to Ironstone Vineyard which holds the biggest natural Gold nugget in the North America. The big gold http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-43.jpg The Vineyard http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...odi/file-8.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-10.jpg We even made the effort to the town called Murphys to whisper him make our trip uneventful in the further, it didn’t seem to work, however, a walk around town and a good dose of ice cream was really nice. Downtown at Murphys, remind us Arrow Town at home http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-15.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-17.jpg Ice Cream for girls http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-21.jpg Sushi for dinner again, hope Andi isn't sick of it http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-25.jpg The day after, we decided just kicking around at his home and relax a bit after visited an other two local vineyards again. Doug’s friend Dan with his third generation Chinese wife Chris turned up. Here we are, me, can’t speak Cantonese, her, can’t speak Mandarin, two Chinese woman talk in English. They are very nice couple, offered to meet us for lunch in Sacramento next day. More wine testing http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-55.jpg Posh place http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-53.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-51.jpg Party time again http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...odi/file-5.jpg In the afternoon, Doug’s another Dan friend brought another guest - Trevor who we met on the Horizon Unlimited Meeting in Cambria. He is riding a Yamaha Tenere to South America too. We all sit down had a drink and as we do then off to the local pub “Waterloo Saloon” for a good feed of pork ribs. International traveller's gathering again http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...odi/file-1.jpg Doug took us (me, Andi and Trevor) to Sacramento on Monday. We meet Dan and Chris at a Chinese Supermarket for a roast duck lunch - plus some other goodies. Then we went to immigration to get Andi fired up. (read the B2 Visa saga, you will understand) Bugger me, three "white boys" using chopsticks better than most of Chinese http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...odi/file-8.jpg After Andi calmed down, we went to Sacramento old town. It was a neat place, lots of gift shop, bar and restaurants. Doug took us a long way round back to Lodi, on the way back, we stopped at a little Chinese town called Locke. Funny they said this is China Town, didn’t see any Chinese except me. I like this office better http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-15.jpg Can you tell me when our bikes are trouble free? http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-16.jpg Sacramento Old Town http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-10.jpg China Town again http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-21.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-39.jpg Does it make me look like a Chinese? http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-46.jpg Back to home was dark. Trevor has to change oil for his Tenere, he will be on his way to yosemite and we will be back to Fresno. Doug, is waiting for a German ADVer who had a broke down in Death Vally, come and pick up Doug’s DR650 to ride the Big Sir... Boys with toys http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-48.jpg |
Thank you for your kind words, we are on the road again tomorrow. Hope the bikes will last till the end.
|
Glad to see you guys in better spirits
You know we had a tractor like that at work ,a complete pile of shit (JD 8300)the boss put it into writting that if the tractor was not replaced he would be contacting the media etc ,after some toing and froing the result was we got a replacement tractor ,which 10+ years latter we still have ,hard to imagine how two tractors coming out of the same factory could be so different.I guess by now you just want to put the whole thing behind you.great to see you have made so many great friends.Noel:thumbup1:
|
Quote:
He refused to take the money, but he ended up not dropping the car. Much to the disappointment of everyone who had come to watch, he had the operator just set the car down. For many years after that though, he never had a problem with another Cadillac, the dealer made sure of it. |
Congratulations!
Being care of driving because of dangerous everywhere!
" i will keep going with your trip". Thank you for sharing so many charming photos and storys.:D:clap: |
谢谢， you can also follow on our chinese website: 两个摩托kiwi_新浪博客
and 从北极到南极 － 环球摩旅的Chinese woman - 色魔驴行 - 摩托车论坛 - 中国第一摩托车论坛 - 摩旅进行到底! Cheers Andi and Ellen |
[QUOTE=KG6BWS;398765]LOL!! Reminds me of a story my dad told of one of our cousins.
Wish we had a crane, but we still have to carry one. Thanks for your support, we are just at Ajo, off the Mexico tomorrow. Cheers Andi and Ellen |
Fresno To Mexico ... The Rush
This trip report is a bit shallow on groovy pictures as it involved big distances in a small time (for us anyway) so you will just have to wade through the words.
We left Fresno Thursday 1st November in the morning, the weather was turning and rain was predicted, as luck would have it we snuck out underneath it with only a few spots on the screen.:clap Our decision was to stay off the interstate per normal so we took the backs roads through and to be honest we don’t really lose any time because we are not going hell fast anyway. This route took us down a great winding back road which was beautiful with the trees laden with leaves changing to the colours of autumn. Lake Isabella soon appeared, this was an area we had missed out on when going to Fresno so it was great to see it. We carried on down the main drag south to Victorville which was our next destination, we arrived late after packing a big day mileage wise trying to get to the border. The camp had toilet and showers so a bit of a treat. Next day we went set off south east towards Joshua Tree, on arrival we sussed out the Yamaha Shop in Yucca Valley. As mentioned earlier we met Jim there at the counter who recognized us and went out of his way to help. Again Jim thank you for your generosity and time, your blood is worth bottling. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...%20US/file.jpg We managed to get front disc pads but they were out of rears, this wasn’t to be a problem as we managed to get some the following day. Joshua tree was a slight deviation as we were right there and we still had enough time, while in there we met up with Phil Jean, bro and sister heading south too on two KLR 650’s, great to meet them and have chats, we will no doubt cross paths heading south and we look forward to swapping travel stories. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...0US/file-4.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...0US/file-6.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...0US/file-9.jpg Parker was our destination that night at a BLM site right beside the Colorado river, again we ran late and set up nearly in darkness as we took some time with the parts but getting sorted prior Mexico was the No 1 priority. At the camp we met Mary, Bob and Chuck who were traveling in vans with their bikes in tow on a trailer, they are traveling from place to place and riding around all over the place, great meeting you guys and cheers for the chats at camp, best for your travels too. Nice place. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...US/file-14.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...US/file-15.jpg In the morning we set off into town to do some shopping for food, there was another Yammy shop there which we managed to pick up rear disc pads from, again the dude behind the counter went out of his way to help, onya mate :clap. Ajo was to be our stop point prior leaving the US, it is 30 miles north of the border, so last calls home while we still had use of T Mobile, catch up on some Mexico research etc, we spotted ourselves the one and only motel we have had on our trip so far, play it safe, get washed, wifi’d and a place to fix my headlight which blew the bulb coming out of Fresno, luckily it is a std off the shelf part from Napa. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...US/file-16.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...US/file-17.jpg The motel had all the home comforts including a spa and pool so we made good use of these, truly a spoil night for sure. Setting off for Mexico we hit the road waiving the US goodbye with mixed emotions, this will be talked about in the US sum up and The Hearts Speaks episode three. Pipe Organ National Park was last on our list with huge cactuses everywhere, quite impressive to say the least and some quite felic in stance ... still small by Kiwi standards tho. Next in line was the border, a few questions, Guard, Where are you going? Me, Mexico Guard, Where have you come from? Me, ...arh... USA! ... is that a trick question? Guard, no Me, OK (thinking hear we bloody go again 8-D) Anyway, all friendly, they were keen to hear about our trip so a good chat was had, our B2 cards taken out of our passports and handed over so uncle sam knows we have gone and away we went to the Mexican side. We hit teh border with 18560 miles on the clock since leaving Anchorage in Alaska. So we left the country and went 30 metres (back in metric land now) and parked up, walked over to immigracion and got our 180 day tourist VISA, very simple, very quick and very nice lady to deal with, the only thing that surprised us is the TVIP station is now 140 km south of the border which stuffed plan A, plan B was quickly put into place and we tootled of down road 2 the main drag where semis passed on double yellow lines on the brow of hills, at least we now know the road rules.... there aren’t any!! We finally arrived at the station, there is no mistaking the place as there is no way through, we thought we had missed it but you simply cannot go through without going there. The custom officers were very nice, vey helpful and very quick (Note this USA guards) and all the time squeezing in time for a chat about our trip which they were interested in. Upon finishing with them and them making us $448.00 US each lighter for out TVIP (Temporary Vehicle Import Permit, $400 returnable when we clock out of Mexico), we left back towards Carborca were we got totally lost so decided to quit for the day and stay here the night as it was already 4.30pm. Trip report time was due, Ellen was spent so I took the quiet time advantage to write this up. 8.14pm now and my eyelids are pushing my knees to the floor, Ellen is already dead to the world dreaming of Mexican hunks and twisty roads. Good night all. |
Mexico, Border to Hermosillo
We decided to head to Peurto Lobos, round 1 after getting our TVIP, not sure of the road, later in the day, got pulled up by a military blockade with ALL the dudes sporting machine guns, they were not offering coke and lollies!!! :eek1, luckily we are of no interest to them, they pushed and poked our luggage then waved us on, gracias fellas. :clap
http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...UStoMexico.jpg After getting lost from not being able to buy maps/books we decided to bunk down, we bought a cold can of coke to sugar up and cool down at a local dairy, a local fellow helped us out, he seemed to notice that we were slightly empty headed looking and was great help. He bought out his map and showed us, it was slightly more detailed than ours and he offered it to us, we talked some more and he was heading to the US next week so we did a swap with him, we had two maps, one detailed and one broader map so he was over the moon as well. We stayed at a small motel with a courtyard away from sight and it was close to town, some may call it crappy but it was luxury compared with camping. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...co/file-23.jpg A walk into town and we bought some nachos for tea then back to do the ride report above, as I said Ellen cashed it out early as she was stuffed and to be honest I was not far behind. Following morning we tried to head to Peurto Lobos, the road started ok, went narrower, then rougher, then shingle, then sandpit. Ellen does not do sandpits very well as you know and today was no exception, she took a binning at about 15 kmph and turned her bike back around 180 degrees where we had come from, with three pieces of plastic case lying dead on the ground I took this as a sign. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...co/file-24.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...co/file-25.jpg Knowing the road wasn’t going to get any better and most probably worse we decided in the interests of Ellen not getting hurt or the bike suffering big damage to turn back, sorry hardened ADVers but we do have to be reasonable about what we tackle within Ellens riding ability as the trip is about us not just me. Heading back to Carborca we stopped for lunch, we asked the price but somehow between getting the price, eating then paying the price doubled, he had my money and only gave me back what he thought it was worth, we were ripped, learnt from that. :deal We headed off toward Santa Ana, arriving there we bought another cold coke as it was very hot, we decided to can it for the day and found a small motel, $250 for 4 hours ..... hmmmm.:evil :wink: Given it was the cheapest place we could find we managed to get it for the night, we were surprised to find a huge mirror as the bed head and the bed about a mile wide, classic. :evil :rofl:rofl http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...exico/file.jpg The next BIG adventure was going into town for Wifi, we left the motel and headed into town, a driver came around on our side of the road ... WHAT THE :eek1 ... we carried on the road then a bus came round on our side ... WHAT THE :eek1... then I realised that someone who looked like me was riding the wrong way up the interstate .... FARK ... just as well we were in Mexico as no one even worried. Ellen sat on the back and let me do it too ..... that is what happens when you are spent, hungry and thirsty, we were very lucky not to get hurt, lesson learned. After being ripped off for lunch we decided to eat in so we knew what we where up for. Heading off to Hermosillo was interesting as well, armed guards at the toll stations were not to be messed with, then another military blockade, we were waved on again, then a Police blockade, quick glance over us and we were waived on again. A little daunting coming from New Zealand where you see nothing of this. We basically spent the day in Mc Donalds, learning Spanish, drinks, Wifi etc and a Couchsurf that night to come, see if we can get local knowledge. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ico/file-1.jpg |
great job
Really like the statement "the trip is about US not just me." That is great. I have really enjoyed the photos and the report. Keep it coming. Keep safe! Keep your head on a swivel! Enjoy the trip and one another!
Mac |
USA Sum Up
Buenos tardes amigos, sorry for the last few days silence, we haven't r e a l l y been ignoring you (much) :D
Setting up and grounding our feet in Mexico has taken a little longer than hoped with one thing and another, but WE'RE BACK! with the new and improved Andi & Ellen :rofl Andi's Take OK, The USA Sum UP, mostly great but some grumbles, not everything is beer and skittles so don't be offended as this is just how we see it from the Kiwis perspective. The USA has been a bumpy section of our travels for us with epic bike failures, time off the road, people belittling us trying to make themselves feel better or bigger or something... it must be a bugger to have a little tiddle :D On the other end of the spectrum, on top of some of the coolest places we have been the people have made our trip, a few kicks in the nuts does not compare the many back rubs!!! :clap Montana, we were greeted by huge fires which was kinda cool in a funny way, something different for us, a little less than ideal to ride through tho. We met the coolest people in the campgrounds etc, we were surprised by really neat locations in the middle of nowhere and can kinda understand why a lot of Americans don’t travel out of the country as you have so much here ... that is no excuse to come see us though!!!! I can’t begin to thank all the people along the way as (almost) everyone we met contributed to making our trip better and better with information, help and just great welcoming friendships. For me being a total petrolhead Reno featured for me at Scott and Joannes, Scott and I doing the bloke ride hooligan day out was mint and something I really needed to do, the DR 43 hp is a workhorse but the 100 plus HP of the 990 and 950 was the devil inducing fun factor which I miss, doing 110 mph on the shingle just bought the kid out :evil. How could a man not grin :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...no/file-10.jpg People highlights, next sum up I do I am going to write it as we go with notes so my old memory can remember but needless to say without the people involvement there would be a lot less to write about, so many people were just interested in what we were doing which was so cool. Scenery, where to start, you guys here in North America (meaning Canada and USA) have SO much on your doorstep, at worst you can ride from one end of the globe to the other with only one flight or boat trip through the middle ...GET OUT THERE!!!!, we will have to come back to see what we have missed so make sure it is still good nic when we return please :evil The one thing I will criticize is Americans, not across the board but quite a lot have not even traveled out of their town or state which is a little sad given what your country offers you for recreation, scenery, locations and even the ease of getting either very fast or via cool as back roads, this is not a whinge just a suggestion from an outsider. Another suggestion is the Yogi Bears in the National Parks probably don’t really need a 6L V8 double cab dual axle truck to change toilet rolls as we witnessed ... he was a WELL fed Yogi Bear too so a little exercise would do him good ....national parks could then be made more accessible cost wise to many more ... again just an observation and suggestion from an outsider, who will listen ... ha no one.!!!! ... but now I am lighter very venting it :D The only disappointing National Park was Yellowstone, the park itself is fantastic and the hot pools etc just mint, unfortunately the Yogi Bears running the place are just idiots (as agreed by many not just us), sorry guys but no better way to put it, again we understand you need to run it properly but with a $1.00 badge and a dumb hat they are just angry over protective over regulated over the top fun police. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...1221781050.jpg The nicest area for me was Crater Lake, we were given probably one of the best weather days while there which makes a huge difference but the location is simply stunning and an outstanding asset to the US, don’t take our word for it tho. This photo for me is awesome .. just wow which ever way you look at it, you guys have some stunning landscapes :clap ... spoken from a kiwi heart from the heartland of kiwi where stunning scenery is in abundance. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ke/file-33.jpg Also Moab and Bryce Canyon are stunning, we see nothing like this in New Zealand, we will be back for another look for sure and to see all the stuff we wanted to but missed our due to bike failures and lack of time. The National parks for the most were very well kept, the only disappointment was the ridiculously high camping cost in California coupled with the worst facilities, as a tourist and RTW adventure rider I would steer people away from California if you are on a budget. The rest of the Parks were very inviting, Diamond lake even had showers and was a very reasonable cost. The Government Machine and Bureaucratic bullshit is unbelievably heavy and probably the worst we have seen in all our travels world wide, some things are more difficult in 3rd world countries due to lack of technology, language barriers etc, none of this should be an issue in the USA but it is and it is overboard when it comes to Homeland Security, I appreciate the need for security but there needs to be a level of common sense that is not that common in this sector, grump over :D. Super duper highlight was HU meeting Cambria, meeting people, comparing notes etc .... most excellent :clap, meeting Ted Simon and Greg Frazier .... mastercard moment you cannot buy. Greg Frazier with us, we didn't charge him :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ing/file-5.jpg Ted Simon with us, we let him off free too :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-39.jpg Ma and Pa Hubbers Grant and Sue Johnson, you guys ROCK!! .... seems we were giving away free photos all day .... the things we do. :lol3 http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ng/file-40.jpg Ellen’s view Because I’m in charge of the kitchen, I had a few observations for our American counterparts. American’s don’t use a JUG If you want a cup of tea, try to “put the jug” on in an American’s home, that’s kind of difficult because there is no such a thing called “jug” in their kitchen. Most people we know don’t drink tea, they drink “soda” instead. Finally I asked a friend what they do if they want to make a couple of tea, she said: “ we use microwave to heat water.” So now I know how to make a cup of tea in the US. Toaster The toaster in American’s kitchen is also different from our Kiwi’s. They actually use a small table top oven instead our four slice toaster. It was weird in the beginning, but to be fair, the toaster does a good job, you get evenly brown toast within minutes. Coffee I love my coffee, so do the Americans. But their coffee is very different from what we have in Kiwi land. Almost every household has a coffee machine, but not the fancy one which makes cappuccino, it is just a filter machine. Their coffee is half of the price we pay in NZ, also if you go to restaurant, you get refill as many times as you want. Haven’t seen any instant coffee in any home, they all have filter coffee. Sugar, Salt and sauces Americans use lots of sauces for their food. If you go to a restaurant, there would be at least four difference sauces on the table, tabasco, ketchup, ranches and mustard, plus salt and pepper. I found their food is covered with heavy sauces, not sure if the chief try to cover badly cooked food or people just used to the flavour of sauces. Another thing I found is their dessert is far too sweet. We can’t taste other flavours of a cheesecake rather then sugar sweetness! Even the organic cereal has 26% of sugar. There is so much sugar, even a loaf of bread is sweet. Food price is another interesting point. We paid $3.64 for two nectarines, they are not big. However, a big 7 inch cake only cost you $2.99. In general, fruit and vegetable are more expensive than processed food . $4.99 for a big No.12 chicken roasted, you can feed 4 people no problem, who would bother to go through all the trouble of cooking at home? Fast food kingdom McDonald, KFC, Subway, Denny’s, BK, that’s all I knew prior to this trip. My new list now is: In And Out, Chipotle, Dairy Queen, Panda Express. In and Out makes fresh burger, now becomes the biggest rival for McDonalds. My new favorite Chipotle serves Mexican food, new generation of fast food which has the healthy image, ironically it is owned by McDonalds http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...di/file-41.jpg That concludes our view of the USA, in summary we loved it and will be back to see what we have missed better prepared next time with local knowledge under our belts, I will talk with Barack and discuss some of the shortfalls :D Some useless information too, we budgeted $60.00 / day for two of us (per Naomi and Alberto), including bike repairs and maintenance it came in at $64.05 / day which included tires and all, without bike costs it came in at $60.45 / day so we blew our budget completely :rofl, also Naomi and Alberto came in at $60.25 ... damn ... beaten...gutted!!:eek1 Of interest, when staying at inmates, normalish mates and some humans places this saved accommodation costs but our piss drinking and good food budget went through the roof and got a hiding, conclusion, still cheaper to camp and self cook but one must also have treats on the trip. |
Great summation
We had our own run in with the bloody yogi's at yellow stone.long story to do with "abandonment laws with one of our guys."we had the whole siren treatment.any hoo just a tool.the rest of the parks we visited were good.Im glad overall its been a rewarding trip.Noel:D
|
Quote:
Great to here from you again and glad you are enjoying it too, trip has been most excellent bar the bike issues (and overpowering yelloyogis) Looking forward to enjoying Mexico now :thumbup1: |
I may have invited you to Mex City but if not you are invited. I can´t have any visitors until December 15th but after that you are welcome to come anytime.
Garry |
Quote:
Yes you have invited when we were setting our trip up and yes we would love to take you up on your offer, we will get in contact with you closer to the time and organise things. Much appreciated and we look forward to meeting you. Many thanks. Andi & Ellen |
The Heart Speaks - No 3 - USA
Andis Take
Things I have learnt about me, firstly my fear of heights has come to haunt me, I have found with age vertigo has come to get me, assuming then it is bodily preservation with sensibility as a result of older age, I find myself telling Ellen to come back away from the edge....it hasn't worked! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ab/file-74.jpg She even takes the bloody bike too!!! :eek3: http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ab/file-22.jpg Secondly, dehydration and hunger are the two quickest ways to entering into a mindless navigational pubscrap on the side of the road, we have both found when it is late in the afternoon you are tired, hot and or dehydrated that a quick stop, food and water goes a l o n g way to having a sensible navigational discussion. Leaving California today (1 November 2012) had mixed reactions, to say farewell to long term great mate Shann was hard, man hugs and hidden tears from me. Once we hit the road trying to make it to the border as least as late as we can was the mission and a mission, several points of interest going into the "next time" tin due to the lack of time, the one thing I have come to hate is deadlines as this always seems to bring on more stress. I cried in my helmet trying to get my head around the shit we have been dealt with the bikes, call me a baby but I struggled to ride properly and I didn’t enjoy it despite being on a great bit of road, I feel let down badly by Suzuki and thus my choice of our bikes for our trip has held up our trip and created difficulty for us, not our fault but our problem. :thumbdown: I have to admit the bike issues pushed me hard, so hard that on Wednesday I went for a walk to clear my head, this was after taking the bike back again for the mystery metal in the oil and having lost the G9 comms unit as Ellen did not put it on properly so it was smashed beyond repair and to get personal I had the shits (from being so wound up I think). http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ir/file-12.jpg I was ready to chuck it in and go home ..... kinda weak thinking but when you are battle worn you start to think preservation or exit mode, something you have to kick yourself out of and step above, this my friends takes strength when you are down. So back to the story, I walked into a shop as #2’s was calling and time was short with the crook guts, I was hungry and probably slightly dehydrated, after doing my deed I think I exited out a different door and carried on contemplating life, suddenly I found myself questioning which way I was going .... was the sun behind me or in front ... or beside me? :confused1: Long and short of it I got completely lost and ended up in an area less than ideal, no way of knowing which way to go, all square blocks etc. I could not think straight so I decided to head one way until I reached shops or something were I could use a phone, as luck would have it this worked, I looked across the road and saw T Mobile so made a B line for that. I walked in and asked if Shann worked there .... yes, she said so that was a complete fluke which turned out ok.:thumbup1:, he returned from lunch some 10 minutes later and took me to the Clawsons Honda as they had rung about the bike which was sorted. People say don’t sweat the small stuff but enough small stuff adds up, if you get 10 x 1 little issue you suddenly have some shit to deal with and when you are relying heavily on your equipment this deepens the issue considerably as it is closer to your heart. So to finish this section up we are sitting in the tent writing this up two days before hitting the border, today is November 1st, we are meant to be out November 2nd and today to finish it off my headlight blew???. Not a biggy ... just some more shit to deal before hitting the boarder on an already overtight time table. Bikes The Suzukis, our DR650s cost us 6 weeks off the road in six months, if not for the help through the ADV and HU members it would have been 10 fold harder. Although Suzuki have repaired our bikes they have cost us dearly both time wise and monetary wise, FYI a Suzuki bought in the USA does not have warrantee in Canada even though we are still in North America, that sucks the big one for an international RTW biker, so my advice to all is weigh up who gives and international warrantee not just a back yard warrantee as this is useless of your bike breaks out of the US as we found out the hard way in Canada. At least a BMW or Ducati which you expect to have issue with still looks cool when broken down!!! :rofl: The other thing I have found I miss is cats and dogs ... pets, luckily Shann had a crazy cat ... a spider cat that could climb cupboards in a single bound. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...air/file-1.jpg Ellen’s point of view Some friends say we are on vacation, I would say we just changed our life style, because at least I don’t have a job to go back for so technically we are unemployed and homeless :clap:. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...US/file-23.png It’s also time to reflect who we are, why have we ended up here and to understand ourselves better. We found the reflection ... but nothing changed!!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...exico/file.jpg The broken down bike hit Andi hard, but I have looked it from a different angle. We all like to take control of some part of our life, for Andi, particularly, he likes to take control of his bikes and buying Japanese and new you would think we would not have been put in the position we were put in. That is all good if he buys a bike with no factory warranty, if you have a problem, too bad, fix it yourself. However, paying new price and buying new bikes the liability is on the manufacturer. That means you don’t have that control when the ball is in their court. That creates the conflicts by itself. If the manufacturer didn’t come to the party as Andi would liked, there is another problem. Therefore, being fussy about quality and not having the total control looks like a beginning of the disaster. If that does not work once, and if you can’t control that part, why not change the way we do things. Maybe spend less money, buy a second hand one, test drive before buy it, if anything goes wrong, take full responsibility. Next time we might buy a beater ... this looks fairly solid http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/.../rock-bike.jpg At least you don’t have someone else to piss you off. Andi might not agree with me, it seems I’m on Suzuki side which I am not, just doing the devils advocate for future trip/shit management. It’s my fault to lose our Scalar G9, it upset Andi even more when it happened while the bike was not fixed and causing stress, Jamie from Scala Rider kindly offered to replace the unit however we decided to run without helmet comms on this trip, sometimes it is hard to let it go but we had to make that decision, some people are destined not to have comms sets and we are on of them but I have to say we will use them again. We had spent so much time repairing our bikes instead of traveling around USA, which was quite upsetting, we were off the road for 25% of our time. What we did was to accept what we have and make the most of it. We took the opportunity to visit places we didn’t go at the first place. We had our most amazing sleeping experience in a Catamaran hull which was cool. Take the whole experience as part of traveling. We might have missed out some places, but we also experienced things which we would not if we hadn’t the misfortune with the bikes. We learned always be positive for the situation which didn’t go the way you liked it. The moral of the story is: there is always a silver lining of the cloud although sometimes hard to find. If you feel really bad just cry ... get it over with and feel better for it!!! In conclusion Traveling around the world on two motorcycles sounds glamourous and for 99% of the time it is great but you are more vulnerable to outside influences so you have to find a different sort of strength within to overcome the ripoffs, let downs, bad weather, breakages, crashs etc and realise that if you are still alive and well then the material things can be replaced. Some people say that a bigger budget will stop a lot of problems, to some degree this is right however your inner strength and ability to cope and see normality and see through it will buy you far more ground than money.... however if we won lotto I would not complain :rolleyes2: :rofl:. |
Hermosillo - The Big Sort Out And Start
For us the first few days were a struggle, we have enjoyed ourselves and through good karma and very friendly Mexicans we have had a tremendous amount of help which quite frankly we would have been stuffed without.
Couchsurfing, our 5th since being on the road from Alaska, we made contact with Alberto, we were his first surfers so he did not know what to expect, we didn’t know very much Spanish so we didn’t know what to expect ... what a crowd of geniuses. :D We were invited into his home, he lives in a secure compound (not jail) with a courtyard out of sight where we parked up Chiwi and Hobbit, meeting at a local Thai restaurant which was a convenient place we shouted Alberto tea (dinner) for him accepting to take us in for the night. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-22.jpg We planned to stay the night then carry on, some dramas with Insurance and my then starting to weep shock held us back with progress, Alberto with his friendly approach said please stay and get sorted no problem at all. :clap He left for work, we settled in to get our stuff sorted out and with a quiet house and Wifi it was perfect. The Mexican insurance gig sent us off the edge so with help understanding what we were getting into Alberto helped suss things out in Spanish, even he had some difficulty which made us feel a LOT better as he is a design engineer so no dumby by any stretch. That second night we were kindly invited to go to a baseball match with the lads, what a treat not ever having been to a match before so there we were watching two Spanish teams duke it out on the field, most excellent!! Pictured here Javier, me, Alberto and Alexandro (sitting stealth) (think he was in the dunny) http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...llo/file-4.jpg Javier sporting his support painted tat :evil http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...llo/file-5.jpg These girls kept getting in the way while I was trying to take photos of the grass, sorry guys :wink: http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...llo/file-7.jpg Earlier that day we went shopping for food etc and made very slow progress with one thing and another, Ellen cooked up a Thai curry and one of Albertos mates Javier came and joined us for food, interestingly enough Walmart sell Mexican ADV bikes http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-20.jpg You can conveniently buy shampoo too at an arms length :rofl http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-21.jpg Given that we had become re-invited overstayers we set too trying to get a phone card, chains and sprockets sorted and my now newly weeping shock, apart from that we had nothing to do except tear our hair out and I don’t have much of that to start with. Javier’s 41st birthday was on that following evening so Ellen made the famous Sushi, later that evening we went out to a night club for Whiskey, dancing and good times, this closed at 2.00am so they kicked all us oldies out back to the retirement village, Javier had a yummy cheesecake which he insisted we all have some of ... ok. Sushi .... YUM!!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...llo/file-8.jpg Me, Ellen and Alberto http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...llo/file-9.jpg The birthday boy Javier and his good lady!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-10.jpg Good times :freaky http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-13.jpg More mates, http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-16.jpg Ouwh old people dancing :eek1 :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-18.jpg We were impressed with the concrete floor http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-14.jpg 3.40am we all cashed it in, full of sushi, grog and cheescake ... classic .. not quite what we expected from a one night stay. Friday morning Alberto was leaving to go back to Mexico city and said hey if we want to stay it would be no problem but he won’t be there, having still very incomplete business we decided to do this. Saturday we did cruze around Hermosillo after getting mostly sorted, went up to the lookout and really enjoyed the day. Some general pics http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-25.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-27.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-28.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-32.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-43.jpg Cell towers http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-48.jpg Thess little buggas are everywhere http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-41.jpg Neat colours http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-49.jpg Hobbit .... still going (touch wood) http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-50.jpg Saturday evening was one of Albertos workmates party .... in the courtyard....straight outside our door so not far to stumble. In true Mexican style we were invited to have Tacos and pasta, we bought a bottle of red wine and duly accepted, this was great talking to these guys, they wanted to know about our trip and we wanted to get local info and enjoy local peoples company only a 1.45 am finish this time. Head chef and birthday boy http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-24.jpg Does not need explaining!!! hmmm can you smell it!:evil http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-51.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-52.jpg Sean and I having a chat http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-53.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-54.jpg Sunday we went for a big walk on a local hill mountain bike / walking track, was neat for us to chat (kinda) with MTB locals, the weather was very nice an made it a pleasure, on the way back we stopped in at a supermarkdo and fooded up again for our assault on Copper Canyon as Monday lunchtime we leave, no photos as we forgot the camera.... broke the rules of NEVER leave the camera at home. Tuna Blanco, this is what this piece of cactus leaf is called, we tried it and loved it, something we have never had before, very nice to eat as fruit. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lo/file-55.jpg Now for the credits on this part of our report, I have to be honest and say although we had a very lonely start to Mexico and struggled a bit but the warmth and welcoming of the locals here has been second to none, they have set the bar very very high now. A special thanks to Alberto, your blood is worth bottling mate and Javier just for making us feel welcome like a local mate, you guys have made our stay just magic. We are now insured, shipping sorted, have a phone card, fooded and ready and much much wiser for looking learning and listening, if the rest of Mexico is only half as cool as the last few days I am not sure we will leave :D ... but we have to. |
Hermosillo To Yecora
We left at 1.30pm from Albertos, we had 281 km to do before dark which is 5.30 pm.
No prob .... errr wrong, the first 100 km was straight .. ho hum. The next 181 was like a cut up and broken supermoto track with more corners than you can poke a stick at, for 90% of it there are NO straights between the corners, totally sweet when having a dudes ride but not so great when trying to make time. :eek1 A military checkpoint was the main feature, we were stopped at 5.20 pm with 48 km to go, they took our VIN numbers, rego, names etc, opened cases etc so we blew about 10 minutes of precious time, so 5.30 when we wived goodbye and basically dark. Upon leaving a vicious dog raced out and went for my leg, for those of you who have seen the movie “I Am Legend” with Will Smith you will know what it looked like....SPOOKY does not come close, anyway long and short of it I managed to get the first kick and got it clean under the jaw sending it of line and slightly dazed but he also had a crack at Ellen all be-it a slightly distant one so she was good....I think it was put off by me!! YAY :clap: Arriving in Yecora in the dark at 6.30 pm we broke all the rules on not riding in the dark, anyway we got away with it and started looking for accommodation, at the first hotel the guy wouldn’t budge on his inflated gringoed price thinking he had a done so we left. Zipping around town in the dark was less than ideal, we spotted another place and went in, the right price, Wifi, off street parking so that ticked all the boxes. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...Creel/file.jpg Ray of ligh from above .. someone was looking down on us :rofl http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...eel/file-1.jpg Turned out to be quite nice and quite, hot shower etc so very nice, when traveling the simple things like flush toilet, hot shower, Wifi and a sheeted bed are luxury items, throw in a can of Root Beer and there is no worries in the world. |
Yecora To Creel
A nice day greeted us after a cold night outside, we carried on along the torn up supermoto circuit to find some first world race track, there is no telling from corner to corner what you will find next including quad bike sized rocks in your lane.:eek1
We had to do the same distance as the day before however we did have a few more straights to sit along. Having left Yecora at a reasonable time we arrived in Creel mid afternoon, finding home again was the challenge. Ellen wanted to camp as the weather was fine so we went to the only camping ground, the lady wanted $200 pesos just to camp, we had to walk to the showers and toilets and make sure the stray dogs didn’t piss on our tent, given we wanted to do Copper Canyon the next day sans gear this was also a concern for security. I wasn’t keen to get ripped so we rode out, straight across the road to a nice looking hotel, they said $400 pesos, we wanted to stay two nights so I negotiated a rate of $250 pesos per night for the two night nights... that will do.:clap http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...el/file-18.jpg It turned out to be a nice place and for the $50 pesos more each night it was worth having all the home comforts and secure lockup for our gear while at the canyon. |
Copper Canyon
We ventured into Copper Canyon the following day, it is about 45 km to Divisadero where the Copper Canyon park starts, this is the road, just stunning!!
http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-15.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-14.jpg $20 pesos each to get in was well worth it, the Tram was calling as a must do, at $250 pesos each we thought about it and agreed that we would not be back again so we would do it and yes it was worth while going across and back. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-74.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-75.jpg In this case the Red one does not go faster as the trams counterweight each other. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...yon/file-1.jpg View of the base station from the tram http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...yon/file-2.jpg We had a stalker too :rofl http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...yon/file-3.jpg There were amazing small villages down in the Canyon http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-42.jpg Some cattle looking like ants from the tram http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-41.jpg The main drive cable and structural tendon block ... cool stuff http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-40.jpg At the other end http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-37.jpg Some locals selling stuff, very nice but we can't carry it. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-66.jpg It is a fookin long way down :eek1 http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-89.jpg Cantilevered platforms you can stand on and look through to scare you even more :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-85.jpg View across the cables http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-69.jpg This guy was following me where ever I went .... don't worry about the mexicans!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-83.jpg They are all into scaring the crap out of their customers and charging them for it, I thought this was only done in New Zealand! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-94.jpg Cool hole in the rock way up in the middle of nowhere http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-34.jpg Panoramic courtesy of Mike http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...yon/photo2.jpg Copper Canyon is 3100 feet deeper and I think 10 times? the size of the Grand Canyon....sorry mericans but size des matter :evil http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-20.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-21.jpg Me on the edge http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-10.jpg Ellen on the other edge http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...yon/file-9.jpg On our return back to the Canyon edge we met a fellow rider Mike who was on an 1150 GSA. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-11.jpg We got to talking about the canyon he had stayed in Urique the previous night so gave us the low down. For those who want to know the road is paved for 75 km from the roundabout at the south end of Creel, you take the sign to San Rafal. We went to the end to find the huge roadworks and a detour with the road turning to hard gravel from there down to Urique. The train tracks for the Chepe Train http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-18.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-16.jpg This was our turn around point as we had run out of time but on good advice being two up we decided to call it quits and return to home base, Urique was not a must see, must do so we were not too worried. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-57.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-13.jpg The ride back to Creel was uneventful and nice but started getting cold mid afternoon when the sun is low. On this corner if you make a fup god will help you by the looks of it. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...on/file-24.jpg On return to the hotel I decided we had enough daylight to clean the air filters, these normally get done at every oil change but that all happened very quickly in Fresno then exciting the US they did not get done so were overdue, they were still pretty well ok at this point as we had no been in dusty conditions. Gordon, an adventure traveler from Canada rode past us, he didn’t se us and carried on into town, I was sure if he was looking for someone or just a place to stay, I rode into town and found him coming back towards me so I did a U-ey and we had a chat, seemed he wanted some accommodation so I told him where we were which was spot on for him, and he followed me back. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...pilas/file.jpg That evening info was traded as was cards etc, the following morning he was setting off to Copper Canyon and we were heading to Guacochi. |
Creel to Guachochi
Creel was a cool wee town, we stayed the two nights so had the chance to have a good look around.
Here is a few pics of central and shops. Some local crafts http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...eel/file-3.jpg Groovy coloured corner shop http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...eel/file-4.jpg Girl with a puppy http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...eel/file-5.jpg A wall ... yeah I know http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...eel/file-7.jpg Jandels made from old car tires!!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...eel/file-8.jpg Local musicians and a stray http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...eel/file-9.jpg Guachochi...... Setting off on a chilly start it warmed up very quickly, a few km down the road the famous Elephant rock appeared so we took the usual photos. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-16.jpg The road was great condition and a really nice ride, Mexico has some beautiful Canyon roads and couple with a cool but nice day made it an excellent ride. Arriving at Samachique we turned right to head to Batopilas to find out how closed the road actually is. From the turn off it is first world Laguna Seca for 99% of it then at Km 23 there is a sign, road closed!! at km 24 the road works start at that really is it, big machinery and no way through, talk is fours years to complete????, it is only 42 km from there to Batopillas. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-26.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-2.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-3.jpg On turning around it is 104 km to Guachochi which was our destination, again nice roads and friendly people, a far cry from banditos, narcos and military check points none of which we could see. Overhanging rocks http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-18.jpg Ellen http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-19.jpg Arriving at Guachochi we were almost attacked by a pack of dogs .... but this time we had the upper hand :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-4.jpg |
Guachochi to Batopilas
That was the game plan anyway. :eek1
Bedroom golf at 6.30 am (no photos :evil), alarm at 7.00 am so time to hop up and have a shower, breaky etc, 8.00am we started the bikes, went to Pemex to fill, left Pemex at 8.15 am .... 4 degrees C, the turnoff was at the north end of town to a little town called Yoquivo, the road is new and is Laguna Seca race track standard for 35km. Tarmac greeted us for the first 35km then it end abruptly ... i.e. road carpet to trailbike track, this was on our return but the is the end of the race track into the pits :D. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-60.jpg The road through to Yoquivo was good fun, rough in parts smooth in parts, at times the dirt powder would have been 150 mm deep and very fine like talcum powder, Ellen really enjoyed that part of the ride, these pics are pretty indicative of the road to Yoquivo. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-50.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-58.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-53.jpg On arrival at Yoquivo our trip took a bad turn, I stopped to read the sign Ellen pulled up in behind me and dropped her bike, we are not sure but she may have broken the bone or at minimum torn ligaments etc as it is up like a ballon and she can’t walk on it. She got her leg caught under the bike. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-5.jpg Not looking very happy :cry http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-6.jpg She decided to stay there, the town seemed nice enough so I carried on down to Batopilas, just as well she did not go on as the road deteriorated and became quite a bit more technical, it would have been hard enough for her without the foot injury. Going down to the bottom was spectacular with scenery and views galore, I had a few stops for pics but time was tight not knowing how bad Ellens foot was so it was a short and sweet visit to Batopilas unfortunately. Bit fuzzy sorry http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-27.jpg Beautiful day complimented by a beautiful view http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-28.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-25.jpg Part of the road http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-31.jpg Big overhanging rock http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-32.jpg Close up http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-33.jpg Half way down the canyon looking at Batopilas http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-34.jpg DRart http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-35.jpg Our world map slowly getting coloured in with cool places http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-29.jpg Close up of the village from up high http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-36.jpg I was stopped by a military blockade again (no photos, not allowed :evil), they were curious about me but were looking hard at the other vehicles, after a quick conversation and smiles in which no-one knew from either side what was talked about there was waves and farewells goodbye..... adios. The road sign, straight ahead is where the closed road comes in from, this is right at the bottom of the canyon wher you turn left to Batopilas. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-37.jpg Bridge over the Batopilas River right at the north end of town http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-38.jpg Upon reaching the bottom of the canyon I saw the Batopilas river, the Canyon base is very cool so I took a coupla pics then turned around and headed back to Ellen who was waiting in Yoquivo. Proof!!!:clap http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-39.jpg Two minutes for some pics before i turned around http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-40.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-44.jpg I was here http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-45.jpg Parked on the bridge and bugga me if a car didn't turn up when I was on the other side ... there was no traffic the rest of the time. :huh http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-46.jpg From the bottom of the canyon looking north west http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-47.jpg From the bottom of the canyon looking north east http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-48.jpg The trip back was slightly quicker with no military stop this time and riding slightly quicker back up the hill. This show the dust http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-55.jpg Arriving at Yoquivo Ellen was not there ..... she had been invited into the house across the street for lunch, I happened to turn up just at the time so I was treated to a nice lunch too.... c h o i c e :clap http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-49.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-14.jpg Cooking tortillas on a wood stove top http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-13.jpg The rest of the return trip home was uneventful luckily, now we have to deal with the walking wounded. Ellen is chip in now... While I was sitting under the big tree waiting, a young man from the house come out said hola. I told him I hurt my foot, and try to ask how many people in his house, but got no idea what he replied. We tried to make some conversation, it seemed a bit difficult at the time. Anyway, he went back to the house and came with two apples in his hand. I accepted his kind offer. Then he left to somewhere for lunch. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-7.jpg I had a visit from another local http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-8.jpg I needed a toilet, so went cross the road ask a the lady who was doing her washing there. I then was led to the house, there is a bath room there. No seat on the toilet, which seemed every body been to Mexico has been talking about it. I managed my deed then came back to my tree. It’s was after 1pm, a car came to the house cross the road. About ten minutes later, a girl walked toward to me, she invited me to her house for lunch. As she didn’t speak much English, with my little translator, we got to understand each other. While I was sitting down, Andi came back, so he joined us for a very nice home cooked soup and tortillas. The father http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-11.jpg The family, this girl is a nurse http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-12.jpg To be honest, I was thinking about quit the bike ride while sitting under the tree again. I am not up to it. Broke myself with no real reason, I was angry about myself. But after meeting the lovely people who helped me, trying talk to me, giving me food, I would not say quit anymore. I will carry on for the trip, because the experience of meeting generous people are has made up all the bad lucks and difficulties we have encountered. |
Guachochi To Matamoros
OK, not much to put up on this report, probably quite good really given the monster Batopilas report.
The road was pretty good and great fun, we did see two other bikers (locals) and with bigs waves etc was a neat find, not many big bikes here. The only other locals we found were these fellas, they are EVERYWHERE, I came around one corner and there was a huge pod of them, my front wheel went clean over the top causing my front to slide momentarily :eek1 ... they are slippery little buggas when you crack em open!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...moros/file.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ros/file-1.jpg Due to Ellens foot injury we took it easy on a road ride, arriving at Matamoros we decided to call it quit there for the day so headed into town central to find a hotel. There are NO hotels in Matamoros so take note ADVers, we asked some locals and found a lady who could speak basic english which was a god send, she rang the Police .... not normally what I like doing but we were not in trouble this time :D They said no problem we can have a small room to stay in with our bikes secured too, I am picturing a cell but it wasn't quite like that. :rofl Arriving at the Police station we went around the side of the building, he showed us a big shed, with a little room. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ros/file-2.jpg Turns out we were given a basketball stadium ..... now THAT is something new!! Back to the walking wounded, as it would happen the medical centre is only 50 metres away, the officer (Jorge)((no relation to Mr.Lorenzo)) (((Doon ... he IS the world champ))) insisted she go to the Doc, the Doc said at worst it could be fractured, more than likely at least torn ligaments and bad bruising so it will be uncomfortable and weak for a while. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ros/file-3.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...os/file-11.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...os/file-12.jpg He restrapped it back up and gave Ellen some hard drugs to HTFU with, she kinda has to as we have no choice. His whole family was there too ... and had food there eating as you do in a Mexican Doctors Surgery, they also gave us food for two to take away and eat so Ellen came back to our Staduim for tea. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ros/file-6.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ros/file-7.jpg We had great chats with all the guys here on the force, really great guys, very welcoming and very friendly, would have to say we stepped on a gem here by accident ..... thus proving that not ALL accidents are bad. This is Jorge who took Ellen to the doctor. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...os/file-13.jpg This is the chief who gave us the stadium :eek1 :D :clap http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...os/file-14.jpg These are the rest of the lads and me showing them our trip, it was great showing them. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...os/file-15.jpg |
Matamoros To Tepehuanes
We were lucky enough to have access to the Police station mess room which had toilet lighting and Wifi as well as a car seat to sit in so we managed to get all our reports up to date.....saweeet !! Office work done.:clap
Waking up in a basketball stadium to the sound of chirping birds was quite different, to be fair it is the biggest room we have had. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...os/file-17.jpg Size does matter, we had a 4 tier table and seating system and a stage which was just excessive :D, it rained earlier in the night so both Hobbit and Chiwi enjoyed the dry room. :rofl http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ros/file-4.jpg Packing took a new sequence of events too, something to make a bit of fun with our room. Take one exped pillow and place back in bag, tighten bag. Take one ortleib waterproof bag and place under basketball net. Throw ones exped pillow at hoop and hope... Aim http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...os/file-20.jpg Fire http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...os/file-21.jpg Net!:rofl http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...os/file-19.jpg Exped pillow, thrown correctly, nothin but net .. packed :D Our trip today was down the Mex 45, turn right to San Maria del Oro and through to Tepehuanes, arriving at San Maria del Oro we took a wrong turn or more to the point we didn't turn ... we went a further 15 km to San Bernardo which is kinda the end of the road ... damn!! We did stop for lunch along the way at a small worship place which was nice. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...uanes/file.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...es/file-17.jpg We asked for directions and headed back to San Maria del Oro, I spotted a KLR 650, an oldie, got talking to the dude and he said follow me, he promptly took us through the streets and showed us the road out which turned out to be 45 miles (75km) of concrete paved road....unreal condition like new. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...nes/file-9.jpg Beautiful http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...nes/file-6.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...nes/file-4.jpg We arrived at Tepehuanes and found a hotel, we agree a price of 200 pesos, about an hour and a half later a lady with big boobs flagged me down in reception and started demanding money, I said but have already paid! but she would not have a bar of it, thankfully Ellen just arrived back so the chat/pubscrap was on. I got the lappy and Google translator helped a lot, one phone call to someone (obviously to the same person earlier) then that was it, pubscrap over all smiles and we were good so not entirely sure what happened there but we were not thrown out :evil In the village square there was brass band playing, the dudes where good, even the Police clad with machine guns were watching. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...es/file-13.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...es/file-12.jpg Bikes parked .. .should be ok there http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...es/file-19.jpg Tea was on the agenda as we were both hungry, we got one of these to start with between us. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...es/file-20.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...es/file-21.jpg Then some other english speaking guys asked if we still wanted the room .... WTF it was sorted.... apparently right hand does not talk with left hand, anyway all sorted in the end. That concludes today. |
Durango - 9th Most Dangerous City In The World
I think the article might have been from an American reporter.
Back to the trip..... Dr650 ... left outside in the cold :cry http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...rango/file.jpg Breaky was some local burrito style of thing, we had run out of muesli and heading to the main centre we though we would eat out. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-10.jpg On leaving from Tepehuanes it was a nice ride through mounts with rock bluffs and interesting scenery. Exiting the hilly part we hit 20000 miles (32000km) on the speedo since leaving from Alaska. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ngo/file-1.jpg A place of worship on a HUGE rock http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-11.jpg Some spiral shaped building, quite cool really. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-12.jpg Straights greeted us for the rest of the ride into Durango so pretty uneventful except one driver who tried to bulldoze us off the road, the lady was yelling out in Spanish at us, we were only doing 90km/hr in a 40km/hr zone so we were obviously holding them up. I reciprocated with the finger for their good effort, they continued to weave in and out of the traffic ahead without making much progress, thus far they are the only nasty Mexicans we have met. Arriving in Durango one of the ten most dangerous cities in the world (9th) we found our accommodation with a small round the block trip with streets not quite being where they were supposed to, we had to stop and ask directions from some locals and after arm waiving and directions in Spanish we were on our way eventually getting to where we were meant to be. The previous night we had looked on Google Maps and Google Street View which was a great help as we then knew what we where looking for. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ngo/file-2.jpg Ulises and William were running late so had a gutter lunch with a bunch of local boys who were fascinated by our bikes, with big smiles they all had turns at sitting on the bikes which was well cool. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ngo/file-3.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ngo/file-6.jpg They even had a geography lesson on our RTW sticker http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...ngo/file-4.jpg Ulises the owner and William a couchsurfer from the UK greeted us, we tried to fit the bikes into Ulises courtyard for safe keeping but the luggage despite being not very wide managed to not fit in by 10 mm, rather then remove the luggage a neighbour from down the street kindly offered her courtyard with plenty of room, we duly accepted this offer. It was decided that we would head into town for the later afternoon to the centro on the bus, that way we didn’t have to carry our riding gear which made it easier and didn’t have to ride in the traffic. There was a cafe strip which we noted, Ulises took us for a walking tour of beautiful buildings, churches, shops and stalls, at one of the stalls we bought a bottle of liqueur that was nectarine based flavoured and very sweet bordering on a sticky dessert wine so a real treat. Some shots of Durango centro http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-18.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-19.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-20.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-21.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-28.jpg Our impromptu tour took us underground to a mining museum under the city centre, this was very well done, from there we headed to the cable car for a night view of Durango only to find it was out of order....bit of a bumma. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-43.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-45.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-47.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-49.jpg Heavily finished detail on some of the buildings http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-58.jpg Rubbish and recycling http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-33.jpg It was decided that Tea time was the next plan as it was about 8.00pm, on the way up to the cable car we spotted a burger cart with wood smoke pouring out of the roof and the beautiful smells of cooking meat torturing our hunger sensors so there really was no choice. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-54.jpg On collecting our burgers we walked back into the town square sat down and had a feast we were supposed to have chilly corn on the cob however our monster burgers filled us all up. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-55.jpg The town was lit up beautifully with the lighting looking very cool. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-50.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-51.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-52.jpg Returning home we cracked open the Liqueur and had a few rounds, Ulises decided not have too many as he had an exam the next morning, actually it turned out to be the next next morning so he dipped out a bit there. With our day to be had in Durango Ellen and I headed back in centro for more of a look and to go back to the coffee shop we had spotted. I had a cappuccino which was the best I’ve had since leaving New Zealand, Ellens Americano was the same so pretty cool to have such a treat here in Mexico. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-56.jpg I had a gut cramp and thought it was the coffee assisting things but it turned out to be more than that, thankfully Mc Donalds was only 50 metres away and after two brisk visits there I decided the best looking shop to me was the Farmacia (Pharmacy) to by some stop cramp and bum binder.... perfecto!!! Ellen got an Icecream and I got some pills..... not fair. :cry Heading toward home we stopped in the supermarkedo for supplies for the next day on the road to Mazhatlan, the next mission was finding our way back home, we picked a bus and asked the driver and he gave us the thumbs up. Somewhere in the middle the translation was lost and he stopped outside and Ambulance station, I showed him our piece of paper with the name of where we wanted to go so he carried on, the lady behind him asked if she could have a look too, she discussed it with her mate and the guys behind and beside her so soon the whole bus was in on it. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-70.jpg The bus driver stopped and pointed down a street and everyone else on the bus concurred that we were in the correct place .... not bad for a bunch of dangerous people as it turned out they were all right so we found home base pretty easy. Ellen did her ride report and we took some more pics. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-64.jpg The alley in Ulises house. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-63.jpg The view from th top http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-66.jpg Last but not least Ulises doggy! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-67.jpg When Ulli and William came home we all headed out for tea trying local food combinations, again the food was superb and very cheap costing around $10 New Zealand Dollars to feed three blokes and a chic. Not once did we feel threatened or have any dodgy dealings, I guess you can always find trouble if you want it but here in the centro there are woman and children out walking so I guess that says something. All in all Durango gets the big tick yet again from the people who make the place, thank you to Ulises for hosting us and William for being the translator. |
Once again a thoroughly entertaining blog !
In my travels rarely are the people you meet are A typical of others experiences.great you are having a interesting time.How's the sore foot?
photo's still of a high quality.Noel:D |
Thanks for the great journey log, I have been enjoying it. We are resident now in Caloundra, Qld.
Next month, we are going to start a 6 week (or so) tour of NZ, certainly passing through your home town (Wanaka?) I do not suppose that you will be home, Dec/Jan? My bike (HD Sportster) is already in Christchurch, but my wife's Sporty had to stay home and I have had to buy a 400 Honda for Jill, awaiting us in Gore. So: whether we meet or not, keep riding on! Rob and Jill Hall. |
Quote:
Again thanks for your comments, always very positive. Yeah everyones experiences are different and ours have been diverse so far in Mexico, some really outstanding and some not so good. Although we have travelled many third world places before riding them full time has added a new dimension to it and certainly the highs are higher but the lows are lower. We are in a difficult patch at the moment with Ellens foot and yesterday she had another bad binning on an off camber corner where a truck had lost its load and with her right foot injury biffed the bike further wrecking her and the bike. Time for a regroup and assess damage today. |
Quote:
Not likely we will be home unless in a coffin so either way we won't be able to help. Bit of a bumma as we would love to have had you guys stay, if you are going through Wanaka and want somewhere to stay let us know and we can probably hook you up with one of our dodgy bikie mates from The Wanaka Motorcycle Club, just let us know. If you time it right the third Wednesday of every month is the monthly meeting where they all meet for tea at a pub, usually slightly out of town during summer. |
Ellen may i say you are a true trooper!!
Sorry to hear you've had another spill ,maybe find a nice beach somewhere and take a break for a week or so.Noel:D
|
Two Moto Kiwis Trip On Hold
Yesterday Sunday November the 25th Ellen had a huge off on the open road.
I report that she is ok after and ambulance ride, hospital visit and Xrays etc. She has suffered severe bruising and contusions to leg ankle, right bum cheek and down her back and around her neck, today she can hardly walk, all X rays came out ok. We are going to lay low for the next few days and formulate a plan B, needless to say this is very much a trip changing event. Couple of pics from yesterday. Love to all. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...sh/file-10.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...sh/file-12.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...sh/file-27.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...sh/file-35.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...sh/file-41.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...sh/file-44.jpg |
Guys,
I hope everything works out ok for you. If you think I can help in any way just send me a message or a mail. We will be out of town from Dec 3rd- Dec12th and I doubt I'll check my mails very often. You are welcome to stay with us while you recover or store bikes or any thing else. Garry |
Guys,
Just read about Ellens Accident, sorry to hear trip is on hold but happy that Ellen is OK, take it easy Ellen and get well soon!!! Even though we are up in Canuck land :freezing:, let us know if we can help you out with anything at all. Might be best to split back up to the USA and regroup mate, might be worth talking to your personal travel insurance company and see if Ellen can get checked out up there too just to make sure nothing has been missed medically. Though if everthing is OK, while she is recouperating would be a good time to put you feet up somewhere and do some Spanish lessons, pick up that Tiger 800XC and head to Guatamala!!! Big Hugs to you Both Grif & Lisa |
Geez i was shocked when i saw the photo's
Guy's I can only hope Ellen gets the help she needs.Noel
|
Gathering Up
Good morning ladies and gents
First off we are blown away by the offers of help, information, ideas and straight out brotherly support, we seriously appreciate this from our ADV family and it is helping us formulate Plan B. At this stage we will be travelling lite on either an F800GS or 800XC, either would be fine, anything bigger would just be too much of a handful, for those of you unfortunate to have met me you know I am no a big guy .....well not everywhere :evil Looking to either part out Ellens bike or reframe and repair it as it is well set up fo a RTW bike and has a massive amount of money in it, new Ti chains and sprockets, near new rubber etc. Same with mine, sell it as a going machine (which it is) or maybe part it out as well, either option will work as we now just have to recover as much as we can financially to lesson the impact, things are looking forward and positive so we can do it and make it happen :clap (actually we have no choice)!! The Human Part OK back to an update, today is Wednesday 28th November, Ellen is starting to walk a bit better and the scorch on her bum is slowly starting to dry. This is Ellens bum, ever wondered what a bruised asian bum looks like ... now you do :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...en/file-10.jpg The feet, hmmm slowly but surely getting better http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...en/file-12.jpg Ready for a marathon http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...len/file-9.jpg The Blokes Department Looked at the bike and the headstcok is definitely out of whack, sitting on the bike the steering is out of whack North West. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...Ellen/file.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...len/file-6.jpg We are test trialing this new wind efficient fender ... makes the KLR look good :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...len/file-1.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...len/file-3.jpg Barkbusters, what else is there to say as they took an epic beating, her hands, levers etc are all intact ..... GET THEM!!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...len/file-2.jpg Tramping boot tin took a slight tar seal applied cosmetic enhancement as did our video camera mount http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...len/file-4.jpg Hmmmm, straightened it as far as I could to ride it here http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...len/file-7.jpg Hard case photo, the top of her top box took off leaving only the front section :eek1 http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...len/file-8.jpg The captain and her stricken ship http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...len/file-5.jpg At this point we will stay for a few days, we are in a quiet and secure place so perfect for rehab fo Ellen. We are lucky enough to have have great Wifi which is outstanding in a time of need to get things reorganised. To finish it off we have a beach two minutes walk (ten for Ellen) so she can swim and do weightless exercise to get her body moving, she is still very saw deep inside the chest/back area, probably bruising to ribs as she was winded on impact. So that is where we are at right now, Plan A get Ellen sorted, Plan B reorganise the wheels. Again thanks to all for the support. Love Andi & Ellen |
Quote:
We were probably going to be passed you place by the 15th December but looking like we will be coming back, hopefully prior Christmas. Quote:
Yeah this wasn't quite the plan, we had planned to stop in Guatemala for a 1 month stop and Spanish school, will still do Spanish but will reassess how much time we spend in Nicaragua and Honduros etc. Either a 800XC or F800 GS is on the menu, F800 has a better standover height for me and bein short that is a big consideration. Anyway, enough of our daily grind how is life in Banff?, also can you ping us through Mike and Jings email please as we have misplaced it. Quote:
|
Speedy recovery
So sorry to hear about the accident. We are very glad she is mostly ok. Those bruises look painful. Not sure what we can do from here, but don't hesitate to ask. We are currently in the Yucatan, but headed back to west of Mexico City next week. Best wishes!! Sara & Daniel
|
ouch
Cannot tell you how sorry we are to hear of the accident. Praise the Lord She is okay. We will be praying for health and wisdom and for continued safety. If there is something more we can do please ask.
|
Mate don't worry about the photo's i can wait.
You just take care of your girl.so glad to see her up and about.
My other half is getting keen to learn to ride but now i'm not sure its a good idea,i've had my share of buster's , but i also have hundreds of thousands of km's under my belt.Maybe two up is going to be a better idea in foreign parts. take care of yourselves Noel |
What a trip!!
Hi Andi, hi Ellen
Been really enjoying your trip report (except the bits where Ellen gets hurt!!) and what a trip you guys have been having. We hope that Ellen mends and makes a full recovery soon. We're back in the UK now, had to come back a bit early due to a family emergency. Keep the brilliant photos and write ups coming and I hope you get sorted and are able to carry on soon. Best wishes and take care Iain and Debz |
Hi Ellen and Andy!
Very sorry to read what happened, very happy to see Ellen is on her feet and smiling. I guess I met you in Cambria, at least I saw your bikes : ). I am also on my way south and just want to let you know that if you need any help, any material from the States...I will try what I can do to get you on the road again. On saturday I will leave New Mexico. Sunday finally Mexico!!! : ) All the best, Toby! |
Our New Austrian Steed
Quote:
Those of you unfortunate enough to know me know I love Orange having had the KTM 990 SMR in New Zealand which was nothing short of a weapon, I always wanted a 950 Super Enduro, nearly bought one in NZ but missed out by two weeks on a great bike with only 7500km on the clock and bone stock. So fast forward to 27th November 2012, our disaster day, this day changed the dynamics of our trip completely. Firstly, Ellen was damaged, thankfully not too badly, secondly, Chiwi took a hit and will need a new frame, bars, mirrors, headlight and front guard etc. So that Chinese dude on New Zealand TV for the moss stuff ...... Look I Walk Away https://www.youtube.com/watch?featur...&v=H4ibFq1aup8 So Ellen took his good advice Look I Walk Away from riding ..... and will passenge from here so there will be more off the bike shots. So not to drag it out, here we are our new Austrian pony. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...o/KTM/file.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...KTM/file-4.jpg This is the list of the goodies done by Alfred the previous owner who is a perfectionist and certainly knows how to treat a hot Austrian chick. CJ Designs 2-into-1 Header $350 CJ Design Rear Fuel Tank, powder coated, $450 CJ Designs Billet Clutch Basket $650 CJ Designs Clutch Cover, swirl & powder-coated $ $350 CJ Designs Engine Plug Kit $63 CJ Designs Shortened Intake Trumpets $50 CJ Designs Top Rack Plate $150 CJ Designs Water pump Upgrade Kit $150 CJ Designs Billet Chain Adjuster Blocks $ 80 CJ Designs Spark Plug Wrench $36 CJ Designs Radiator Temp Sensor $60 KTM Euro-Headlight Switch $85 KTM Side Stand Removal Switch $45 KTM Center Stand $375 KTM Frame Protector Kit $30 Small rear rack $125 BR Moto Saddlebag Racks, w/rear cross-mount $350 Wolfman Expedition Saddlebags $225 Giant Loop Coyote Bag $330 Warn XT17 Winch, w/handlebar control $500 Warn Quick Disconnect mount plate $80 Crispy Designs Graphics $300 CPC Chrome Plated Brass Fuel Line Quick Disconnects, bi-valved $250 Fuel Line Heat Sheathing $75 G2 Throttle Tube, #400, and spare tube, grips $200 SAS Block Off Plates $35 Rottweiler CPR Air Filter Assembly, and extra skins. $380 Adventure Machines Jetting Kit $135 Adventure Machines Rear Brake Master Guard $70 Jet Hot Exhaust Header Ceramic Coating, Black $200 Wings Titanium Muffler, Right side (and Left) $850 Rigid Industries D2 LED Lights $380 BDCW LED Light Mount $80 BDCW Skid Plate, w/Shok Block $350 BECW Side Stand Relocator $90 Fasst Flexx Handlebars $350 Flexx Pivoting Handguard Mounts $70 Cycra Handguards and Frames and Inserts $120 Hot Grips $122 Warm N’ Safe Grip Heat ‘Troller $60 FP Racing Adjustable Folding Clutch and Brake Levers, shorty, Black $300 Scotts Steering Stabilizer and BRP Moto Top Clamp & Risers $700 GB Racing Ignition Cover $123 Safari Fuel Tank and Shrouds $850 Cyclops Motorsports Kevlar/CF tank guards $250 3M Paint Protectant Film on Graphics, Frame Rails and under Tank $250 Acerbis Locking Gas Cap $35 Factory Connection Fork and Shock Re-valve (200 lb.) $800 Burns Moto USB Outlet $35 Electrical Connection Master Ground Blocks $60 Hilslamer Footpegs, Long $150 Emoto’s Mini Digital Voltmeter, red $50 Dr. Bean Fuel Pump Kit (and 1 spare) $150 Profill Fuel Tank Filter $30 Evoluzione clutch slave cylinder $150 Centech AP-2 Fuse Panel $80 Assorted Sumitomo MT Sealed Electrical Connectors $75 Assorted Del City' Heat Shrink, Solder Sleeve Crimpable Terminals $100 Renazco Seat $375 Touratech GPS Mount $230 Zumo 550 GPS $700 Assorted Ram Mounts $100 Scotts’ Shark Fin Rear Disc Guard $160 DRC Brake lever ‘Snake’ $20 D.I.D. 525 ZVM2 Series Heavy chain $220 SuperSprox 16/52 Gearing $129 Dunlop D908 Rally Raid Rear Tire (2 new spares), $600 Dunlop D606 Front Tire $100 Michelin Heavy Duty Tubes, F & R (2 spares each) $175 Stock fuel tank and side panels $745 Assorted spares, take-offs, (Stock fuel tank and side panels $745), filters, gaskets, oils, etc. ($200) |
So how did you come across the bike in that part of the world?
Second question what will become of chiwi/hobbit?
The guy you've brought it off has spent a fortune on it. carry on Noel:D |
Ok, just going to look at the photos and Drool for a while....Nice Bloody Ride Mate! :thumbup1:
|
OWWW!
Get well soon, Ellen. So you will write off one bike, and sell the other? Then travel on on the KTM? Is that the story? Hate to say it, but are you sure that Ellen's delicate derriere is going to be comfortable on that hard narrow seat? I know that you will overcome. Courage. Rob Hall |
That is one very cool Bike. Have been following your blog from the begiining and absolutley loving end. Hope Ellen heals quickly and you can get back into it.
Will you be able to part out the bikes? What about Carnets etc???? |
Wow what a wirl wind adventure you two have been on, I have spent the last three nights at work reading of your amazing ups and downs. Glad you are both still in one piece ! and that your adventure will continue.
Your new ride looks bloomin great. i am sure some sheepskin will soften the saddle just right for long stints. Can't wait to read more and see more of your amazing photos. Heal quick girl you are on one wonderful ride. Not only am I just a little jealous of your amazing trip but when its all over you get to return to Wanaka. I spent some time in a bunk room there one winter and kept missing the bus out :scooter: Keep safe and enjoy the ride |
Durango To Mazatlan - Back Track Two Weeks
BACK TRACK TWO WEEKS
So in order to let you guys know we are not dead I am posting up the report I wrote prior Ellens big off, needless to say this is slightly out of whack time wise but I have written it and it records our trip which is what it is all about. Leaving Mazatlan we headed off down the Mex40 libre road (free road), it was a very nice ride and the weather was great although slightly chilly to start with. New Bridge http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-75.jpg The first part was flowing corners and straights so we maintained a nice even pace taking in the scenery and enjoying the ride. About two thirds the way to Mazatlan the road tightens into a myriad of twisties better suited to a light weight motard than a big bike. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-79.jpg This is called the devils spine and I can see why, neat bit of road. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-80.jpg We came across a crash between a car and a truck, appears the car missed the corner and hit the left front wheel of the truck, the trucks axle was torn off the spring back onto the drivers step through the back of the front mudguard. The car (a nissan pathfinder) was punted back across the road and was trying to finder path back up the bank which didn’t work, neither vehicles were going anywhere without heavy towing equipment so we threaded our way through the wreckage and the 100 Mexican onlookers and were on our way. Taking in the great road and extreme views from 2850 metres (9350 feet for you imperialists) was a treat, only a few points to stop and take take photos as there are no shoulders at all for 99% of the road, the Mexicans cut only the width that is almost required and no more... actually sometimes quite a bit less!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-78.jpg Further down the road a truck (that was) loaded with reinforcing mesh threw its load on a tight corner with an off camber, I made it through but Ellen with her right foot injury lost it and threw the bike down the road, I was unaware of this until I got through and waited but she did not turn up. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-71.jpg I turned around (I was only 50 metres down the road waiting for a moment) then I saw the guys waving their arms and yelling, I looked further round to see two of them helping Ellen to the side of the road and two of them pushing her bike. Ellen had buggered her already buggered foot again, the bike had sustained some damage with some twisted components and had gravel rash, I straightened out what I could so we could make it to Mazatlan then take the time to sort it out on flat ground without trucks roaring past. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-72.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...go/file-73.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...atlan/file.jpg Advice to any RTWers, if you are new at riding and want to enjoy your trip more school up on the basics and practice without house and contents on board the figure 8, stops, starts, U turns and quick S maneuvers as these will save your arse and your sanity on your trip. Today we have stopped, Ellens foot is not good so we will probably bunk down for a few days to give it a sporting chance to start healing, I have had a look at the bike and done some more straightening and fixing, the two locks that took a hit were not in good shape but I managed to straighten and recover one, the other will be just for show. Hobbit and Chiwi relaxing in the courtyard http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-10.jpg The biek needs fixing again so I will glue the marker lights back on and straighten the Barbuster back out, these took a kingpin hit and stood up well but will still need repairing. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lan/file-1.jpg The rest of the damage is rashing so won’t effect the function, the key thing is to get Ellen back up and sorted at this point. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...lan/file-5.jpg Mazatlan day 2, Jim (going south on ADV) arrived in Mazatlan which our chains and sprockets, and our seal head for my rear shock which has all but stopped leaking after Batoplias!!! We were invited to stay and with working space and a access to tools etc turned out to be a real plus, we shifted our gear over then went back to Abels for tea, Abel and his bro cooked up a beautiful feed, laughter, food, drinks good times. Our host Abel http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-17.jpg Abels bro and Abel with the food .... YUM http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-16.jpg The following morning was straight into bike work, new chains and sprocket the order of the day, I got out my new Motion pro chain breaker with my task on hand, one turn and my chain breaker broke!!! WTF it is brand new!!, it had a dark patch on one side so it appears it had a floor in the metal and just gave way .... I am stuffed. I used the disc grinder to then grind right through the link to essentially cut the chain in half, we had to do this on both Ellens and my bike which made the task a lot harder. Mmmmmm new Ti chains and sprockets :clap http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-35.jpg My front sprocket was seriously on its last legs after having 32500 km on it, now the bike is nice and smooth again. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-39.jpg I glued Ellen LED light back on and straightened everything out, tweaked the steering back into line so it is ok now. That afternoon we visited Abel at his work and had a coffee, was very nice coldie in the heat, on return to the unit we had a swim and relaxed a bit again to help Ellens foot. SR and his good lady were in Mazatlan that evening so we all organised to meet down and a local taco stand, beers, wines, food and chat, it was a great night out and great meeting the guys who have helped us, Stephen (SR) gave us pointer on good riding roads, places to stay and buy food, information you cannot get of a GPS or maps! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/.../file-24-1.jpg Jim and I chattin http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...an/file-47.jpg The one thing we did find out though was the Mayor and the Police and a shootout and hostage taking session the day we went through Santa Maria del Oro, be fair to say we were unaware of this until Stephen told us. |
Ive been looking for an update from you guys.
Nice photo's as always.So how is Ellen?Noel:D
|
Quote:
Yeah she is doing ok, walking sticks are back in the corner, she is still limping around and will be for a few weeks yet I would think. |
Hey Andi are you and Ellen coming back to the US to get that beast?
|
Quote:
|
Mazatlan to San Blas
Upon leaving Mazatlan we said goodbyes, it was already 30 something degrees c when we mounted up and put our riot gear on at about 9.30 am and very very sticky, I was wet with sweat before we even left.
Again we took the libre (free) road as it was quieter than the cuota (Toll) road and LOT less expensive, the speeds that we are doing we make no ground on the cuota roads and the libre roads always go through villages and town which is why we are here is to look at the place. The trip was uneventful apart from one wrong turn thankfully as Ellen is riding with only half the footing capacity. Arriving at San Blas it was 38 degrees c and REALLY sticky, we found a hotel and decided to stay, they had a secure yard and a pool (as we later found out) so game on, I took the bikes in and there was a BMW 650 already parked there. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...s/file-3-1.jpg In through reception http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...s/file-4-1.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...s/file-9-1.jpg The owner Marco turned up shortly after and we got chatting, the were too others there as well Andy and Andrew .... cool easy to remember. So we had 3 DR650s, 1 BMW650GS, 1 KLR650 so we were comparing notes and chatting about our mods, setups, hiccups etc which was great fun. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-4.jpg Nothin but front row seats for Hobbit to watch TV :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-1.jpg Looks like Hobbit picked up some freeloaders too http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-2.jpg Tea time was knocking so we all headed off to a local taco place (patten forming here) and had a feed, 36peso each which is about $2.70 we had a huge feed, very very nice indeed. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-8.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...las/file-7.jpg Town buildings http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...as/file-12.jpg After tea we sat in the town square and chatted some more about Burt Munro, John Britten, and bikes in general, great to talk with Andrew how is an enthusiast like me, by this time the temperature had plummeted to 29 degrees C .... time to bust out the puffy jacket. Ellen headed of to bed early being tired so I took the time to get this ride report up to date for you lot!!! 8-D |
Quote:
|
Quote:
|
Quote:
|
Been about 20 - 25 each day, beautiful weather.
|
On The Way To Nogales
Our plan is to get back to the US and get sorted to continue on one bike ..... what can possibly go wrong??? :D
We employed a fello and his good lady with a ute to bring Chiwi and Hobbit back to the USA as Ellen could not ride. We left Lo De Marcos, 7.00 am sharp so 8.30 Mexican time... hmmm what happened to 7.00 sharp?? a n y w a y the trip was uneventful, we arrived at Navajoa and got a Hotel at midnight after clocking 1000 km of our 1600km drive. Following morning we set off at 9.00 am sharp, 10.15 am Mexican time ... hmmm what happened to 9.00 am sharp ... there is a pattern forming here. Only 10km out of Navajoa BANG and the left front of the truck drops to the road amidst grinding and thumping sounds, our driver to his credit held it straight and bought us to a stop, we all bailed out, we just past a road cone on the side of the road so I ran back and placed it 100 metres back from us in our lane. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...20USA/file.jpg Upon returning back to the truck we had established the bottom suspension ball joint had failed (mostly cos it was fncked to start with) and bailed out of the swingarm and the whole lot had gone to ground, it had hit the tire and gutted that wide open too. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...USA/file-1.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...USA/file-2.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...USA/file-6.jpg The swingarm was ground down and torn open so was stuffed and they had to find a replacement. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...USA/file-5.jpg We were there two minutes when a couple of mechanics pulled up, they organised the tow truck (uh ouwh ... here we go again) and we were on our way back to town. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...USA/file-3.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...USA/file-9.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...SA/file-11.jpg So here we are right back at the beginning of the report sitting waiting for parts to turn up, we are supposed to be in Nogales tonight crossing to the US tomorrow. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...SA/file-13.jpg The guy for the shocks turns up, yes the RHS is yesterday so he takes off and gets a new pair, he comes back, argh wrong ones, hmmm, ok come back 1 hour later and has the right ones, but only one has rubbers and washers .... WTF. We sit and wait another 1 and 1/2 hour. This is how Mexicans can two a 2 hours job into a 6 -7 hour job so easily and as usual the only time we DO have something organised like our pick up in the USA at Nogales this shit happens and we to simply sit around and wait for others for the most of it seemingly simple shit. For the most of the time we have no timetable or organised deadline as this seems be the only time when shit happens and it stuffs things up. See what happens now. We finally hit the road again some 7 hours later and drive into the night to Hermosillo, we ended up staying at a love Motel and we had to be out at 6.00am which enabled us to get a good start by 7.00am, we carried on to Santa Anna for breaky which was very nice. Upon finishing breaky we continued to Nogales to the border, to get out TVIP back turned into a bit of a drama as the bikes were loaded front first ....where the VIN numbers are, the (huge) lady wanted us to unload them completely ... we managed to get the manager across an shuffled things around enough to read them and get our deposits back. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...SA/file-15.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...SA/file-16.jpg We carried on to the border and had to fill out an I94 and pay some money to extend our VISAs in order to get sorted again. We met up with Neil a fello ADVer who offered to come and pick us up, very kind indeed, also a HUGE thanks to his boss Al Jesse Welcome to Jesse Luggage Systems who gave Neil the time out to come and pick us up, in this harsh world there are still great people around, you guys rock!!!. :clap The bikes were unloaded from the ute and reloaded on to a trailer after a carpark reassembly job :D http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...SA/file-17.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...SA/file-18.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...SA/file-19.jpg Neil in action http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...SA/file-22.jpg Both bikes loaded we were ready to do the finally leg to Phoenix so time to say goodbye to our driver Manuel and his good lady who we will catch up with again when we head south. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...SA/file-26.jpg Now we are in Phoenix, re grouping, ordering replacement gear and selling bits and pieces off and playing the waiting game with Maya and here arrival. Not much to report other than slowly waiting. |
Glad you are both well and safe.
Thanks for the update.bier
|
Thanks Noel
No worries mate, just playing the waiting game for the new scoot to arrive probably later in the week.
Got some projects to do in Phoenix now with the people that we are staying at so nice to get into something, don't think we will be on the road much before Christmas at this rate. I have to be patient .... have coupla jeiger |
Just had a big catch up of your ride report. Really glad to hear you are both OK. "That which does not kill you only makes you stronger". If that's the case, Ellen must be bullet proof by now! Take care and keep up the great stories.
Cheers Nigel in NZ |
Caught By The Wolves In Phoenix
Couldn't believe it, was out on a ride around Phoenix, was riding down the road minding my own business ..... the DR swerved all by itself into a back street and turned into a carpark.
Not sure what to do I went into the shop..... turns out it was Zen Motocycle :D ZEN MOTO: Mechanical Piece of Mind So with Dillons help he sorted us out for luggage for Maya 1 x Wolfman Large Duffle 2 x Wolfman Tank Panniers 1 x Wolfman Tank bag Also picked up screen, bars and front guard so came away with everything we needed. So with our new setup on Maya we are running full Wolfman soft luggage setup complete. These are them. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...o/KTM/file.jpg Maya comes with the two Wolfman Expedition rear panniers and a Giant Loop Coyote bag, we won't be using the Giant Loop Coyote Bag so that will be up for sale. Can't speak highly enough dealing with Dillon at Zen, free plug for a good man. ZEN MOTO: Mechanical Piece of Mind info@zenmotostore.com Ph 480 600 2978 GIve him a call or email as he can sort you out for pretty much anything. Now we just need Maya to turn up !!!!:clap |
Quote:
Based on that we will be able to enter a weight lifting contest shortly :eek3: All good now, hopefully take delivery of Maya soon. |
ok i'll bite.
Where did the name maya come from?so what's to become of the other bikes?Are you sure you'll both fit on that bike?:D
|
Quote:
Our turning point of our trip was in Mexico thus we are now riding a strong lady (cos I don't ride boys) :innocent:. Quote:
Quote:
|
Maya arrived yesterday!
Just got a call from the trucking company delivering Maya, the truck shat itself 2 miles from where we are
Waiting on another call to either pick her up or they may be getting another truck ... as Bevan said, if we didn't have bad luck we wouldn't have any luck at all J u s t w a n t t o g e t h e r h e r e.......... She finally arrived ......sort of, she got within 2 miles of here then the truck shat itself and was towed 4o miles away :cry So we chased across town to get her .... finally tracked her down. Good clean tomorrow and sort out the stuff we do and don't wan't. Crammed in http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-25.jpg Getting freed http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-24.jpg She is tall!!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-23.jpg Off we go http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-20.jpg Bit of cheek off dancing going on set up at full height!! http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-15.jpg So we have her home, she needs a good bath to tomorrow will be full TLC day. F i n a l l y we can start to go forward :clap |
Merry christmas to you both.
So how did you come upon the KTM? safe travels.Noel:D
Note i did not wish you happy Holidays. we still celebrate Christmas in Oz and NZ. |
Merry Christmas All
To all our fello RTWers and riders, have a great Christmas and great travels.
Love to all Andi & Ellen. |
Merry Christmas Andi & Ellen!
Hope you guys have a good one, you aint missing much here its -30 C and the ski hills have had nearly 4 metres of snow so far this Winter, Sammy is stuck in the living room until April/May time and he is looking bored! so enjoy riding that lovely KTM! Feliz Navidad! Hugs Grif & Lisa XX |
Quote:
We bought it through an ad on ADV rider. Merry Christmas to you you mate, I spent my Christmas day doing repair work to the KTM. Cheers Andi |
Quote:
Good you bought Sammy in, you don't want her radiator to freeze eh :innocent: That lovely KTM has a wee guts ache and is off to the shop tomorrow hopefully for only minor surgery but we won't know until the doctor opens her up ... not good :frown: |
Hope your doing well
Hi from Panajachel. We are here until Jan 19. I hope we can still meet somewhere along the way. Cheers
|
Quote:
At this rate we won't be out of Phoenix until this time next week so we are miles behind, we got taken for a ride on the bike we bought so many hours of repairs and a fair stack of money. Not good at all, from a fello ADVer as well, we were ripped. :thumbdown: |
Your luck has to change in 2013, shit time, hope it all goes better from now, maybe catch you on the road
Gino & Fiona |
Bastard!!
Aw that sucks!!!! As above 2013 is for sure is your lucky year.
Feliz Nuevo Ano Sara |
Hello Andi and Ellen.
I've been reading your entire ride report in advrider and about your bad luck with the KTM and the complete mess it's in. I can't believe a inmate would sell off a bike with such problems while advertising it as if it were in pristine condition. I hope you guys get it sorted out with the lease amount of cash outlay. And to you Ellen, sorry to read of your get-off in Mexico. At least you gave it your all. Tossing in the towel and going 2-up is a smart choice as the road ahead through Mexico and South America is dicey and could be more challenging to a novice rider. Your Artic adventure was good reading as one day I hope to do the same. |
Send the vendor the repair bill !
Quote:
What a trip / ordeal, what resilience ! I really feel for you guys and believe you made the right choice Ellen, you gave your best shot and that counts most. I really like the choice and style of the KTM, in a word, RAW ! (I went for the HP2 Enduro) I'm / were unaware of the full details of the sales pitch although it does has a comprehensive list of goodies and once sorted will see you well. I believe in karma, but giving it a helping hand may well work. Send the vendor the repair bill ?c? Hope to see more posts / photos and you both back on the road real soon, happy new year & travels. Dave |
How Long Is Too Long?, The Saga Of Maya And ADV Trust
I would not normally post this preferring to keep dirty laundry away from the Hubb table however this has now gone too far with large consequences both cost and time wise for us.
But on that note, please don’t get fired up and bring whirlwind replies as the mods will throw it anyway, all I want to do is record exactly what has happened in which has become a big and costly event in our life and on our trip, it is NOT to be turned into a discussion post. As most of the you know we bought KTM950SE (Alfreds) 950 Super Enduro R on ADV Rider, he had quite the ad showing off to quote “what would you expect to ask for such a fine machine” This is what we paid for http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...KTM/file-4.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-14.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-42.jpg So we bought the bike based on the shiny ad, pumped up with the right gear, new luggage etc, what could possibly go wrong. Funny enough we had become “the guys who bought that bike”, for a while there I was proud thinking we had done the right thing. Before it was sent Alfred said sorry I could not clean the bike as it is very cold up there and I said no worries (looking at my ad pictures thinking it looked great), I was not worried initially then he sent the photos through ... WTF This is how it was sent. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-34.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-36.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-43.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-44.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...TM/file-47.jpg We finally received the bike on 22 Dec, upon rolling it out of the truck I started her with a huge grin despite the clumps of mud and shit all over her as I was happy to finally get her.... well she rattled very badly and continued to rattle sounding like the cam chain or something was ready to bail....grin gone :cry I rang Alfred right there and then after switching her off, he said that is the nature of the beast and it did this once every twenty starts or so. Having owned a 990 SMR I knew this was not normal but what could I do. Still concerned I rang Dillon at Zen Motorcycle straight away, we took it round there and it had quietened down by then. So we went home, next morning started her up and she rattled badly again so I shut her off. We dropped the oil out into a bowl .... FARK Spencer (KTMSER) came around and we proceeded to remove the screens as well... we could not believe our eyes. Dry Sump Tank Screen full http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...il/file-11.jpg Base Sump Screen Full http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...Oil/file-5.jpg Oil Filter creased from coolant. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...il/file-10.jpg Engine oil black and full of contaminants http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...Oil/file-2.jpg Looking at this brings the milage into dispute ... did it have a new speedo??, something was NOT right. In the sale photos the bike has pretty good rubber, when delivered the bike tires had obviously been thrashed since the ad was placed being chunked up and torn, i.e. thrashed. In the ad was mention of the great CJ designs powdercoated tank which was one of the big drawcards, no mention of it leaking gas out of a crack at the front, this had obviously been there a while as the fuel stain was down the subframe and swingarm, would he have known about it ... hell yes it is that obvious, CJ designs are going to take care of the repair and get the tank back to us so we can continue, thank you CJ Designs. So with new oil and filters in the engine and a short ride around the block to be had I went to start her ur - ur - click - click - click the battery was dead. No problem we will just charge it. We then established the battery was all but spent and is not holding charge and in less than 10 seconds with the key on the battery voltage drops down below 11.2 and falling .... argh fook it needs a new battery too!!! As it turns out the waterpump had failed and was causing the filter issues despite having a new waterpump in it??. So off to Zen Motorcycle to fit up a new waterpump, flush the sump, new filter again and new oil again. What we found was crap everywhere in the motor and sealant applied with a fire hose. http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...il/file-14.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...il/file-15.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...il/file-16.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...il/file-17.jpg http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/...il/file-18.jpg So it took quite a bit of time to get this sorted Finally getting the bike back home we could carry on and actually spend more time setting up ready to resume our RTW trip. So with everything needed to spend on the bike we have been selling farkles to cover the bills just to bring her up to standard so now we have a super expensive non farkled bike, so far it has cost us $1100.00 so nearly 10% of the cost of the bike and we may not be finished yet, we will know by the end of the week if the cam tensioners need replacing, if they do that will have big consequences for our trip and we will be forced to reassess again and that is very frustrating to say the least. I have emailed and PMed Alfred, I have rung four times and left two messages and he has gone to ground. In essence we have been ripped blind for something that was shiny and awesome which is actually a milage disputed, bike covered in shit and clearly hammered since advertised and in need of serious work, I am not one to whine but this guy has sent me to the edge and we just don’t need this crap or expense. When we left home we had a “just in case” pot set aside, we blew that on the bike accepting our events that led to this and understanding that we were buying a pristine SE, now the farkles we have paid for are being traded off for repairs and this is simply a ball breaker to us. We are slowly working to fix everything at a cost of time and money, something you would not have expected. Think I am whining ... just remember how many of you fello Hubbers looked at this very bike and wanted it and if you got it YOU would have the shit and expense we have been dealt. I almost apologize for bringing this post to life but other potential purchasers on his other bikes up for sale you may want to reconsider and I believe if a fello ADver willingly and knowingly is prepared to rip you then others need to know in advance, forewarned is forearmed. The question is did he know about the rattle etc, well yes as he said in my first phone call on the 22nd December on the first start “that is the nature of the beast” and it does this once every twenty starts or so ... BS, once every cold start!!! with an in your ear death rattle. To that end this brings my post to a conclusion and the question of how long is too long from no communication from him whatsoever before you bring it to the table given the first communication was on 22 December?? It is now January 1st 2013, 10 days? you decide, we believe he knowingly sold us a dud and screwed her hard post the ad photos as this is very obvious. Alfred, WHEN you read this I give you the opportunity to step up and make good, on our phone call on December the 22nd when I first rang you you said to me if I had any issues or needed to know something best to send and email as you would get them ..... that was our last chat, I have sent your polite emails, polite PMs and polite phone calls, I have copies of them all and happy to post them. On a positive note Happy New Year to all our readers, hope you had a great time with family and friends. ...and please NO replies to this post, it is here as a record of events, thank you to all who have supported us, it is acknowledged. |
This is not a reply to any previous [posts
Mate its taken the whole day for the steam to leave my ears. All the things that first come to mind,that should happen to people who perpetrate such evils,(i'm guessing you've thought a few yourself) really in the fullness of time resolve little. I was wondering is there some kind of fair trading government thing that you may have some recourse? Yer o.kit is about a previous post ,sorry. I hope you will over come this hurdle ,if i can think of some thing positive ,i'l let you know.Take care Noel |
Quote:
Ouwh man it has been torment, it aint over and we will be looking at options, putting some wheels in motion now so will keep you informed. Happy New Mate. Cheers Andi & Ellen |
I'm just catching up on your adventures (in more ways than one) and look forward to more interesting posts with all this behind you. I suspect you're a stronger person and will prevail!
Stiff upper lip and all that! Safe Travels. |
| All times are GMT +1. The time now is 14:52. |