Golden Wing 2011 Summer

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description

Quarterly magazine of the Honda Owners Club (GB), sent free to all members. Established in 1961, the Honda Owners Club (GB) is the oldest one make Japanese motorcycle club in the country with over 2,500 single and joint members. The Honda Owners Club (GB) is not run by Honda UK, it is owned and run voluntarily by the membership.

Transcript of Golden Wing 2011 Summer

Page 1: Golden Wing 2011 Summer
Page 2: Golden Wing 2011 Summer

Winter 2011, Volume 49 No. 1

Editor / DesignerAndy Stryczko

[email protected]

Diary Co-ordinatorAndy Stryczko

[email protected]

Advertising Co-ordinatorErica Gassor

[email protected]

Thanks to all contributors

All feedback regarding the content and delivery of Golden Wing should

be sent to The Editor at the address below or e-mailed to:

[email protected].

Golden WingHonda Owners Club (GB)

38 Bower StreetBedford MK40 3RE

Web Page: www.hoc.org.uk/ goldenwing

Autumn IssueCopy Date 20th August 2011Published early October 2011

Printing & Distribution by:Swan Print,

Shuttleworth Road, Bedford MK41 0EP

© Honda Owners Club (GB) 2011

We believe the contents of Golden Wing to be correct at the time of publication.

The Honda Owners Club (GB) cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions, or for subsequent changes to details given in this publication or for the consequence

of any reliance on the information.

The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the

Honda Owners Club (GB) or the Executive Committee.

ARTICLESDibble Rattle’s On .............................................................3Membership Matters ........................................................5Editor’s bit .........................................................................6Ian Brooks.........................................................................7Display Materials ..............................................................9Show Us Yours .................................................................9BMF Show ......................................................................10Honda Day at The Ace ....................................................12Legalities with John Measures........................................14Racing Report .................................................................17Classic Corner ................................................................18Regalia Ramblings..........................................................22“Snapped Up” Competition .............................................23Shop@HOC ....................................................................24Compulsory dayglo proposed in France .........................27Crossrunner - first ride report..........................................28iHOC ...............................................................................30CBR600F - test ride report..............................................32Oxford visit the TV&C Air Ambulance .............................35HOC Rocks at the Welsh Motorcycle Show ...................3650th Anniversary Bikes, Bowling & BBQ.........................40Reading do Millau - a bridge too far ...............................42Northumbria rideout to St Abbs.......................................47The Joey Dunlop Foundation .........................................48Joey Dunlop Foundation Dinner .....................................49A little trip to France ........................................................50Bristol visit Northwich......................................................55Members in RiDE magazine - VFR.................................57Down Your Way ..............................................................62

Reports from: Bedfordshire, Bristol, Cambridge, Devon, Eastern, East Midlands, Kent, Lakes & Coast, Manchester, Manx Offshore, Norfolk, North Downs, North London, Northants & MK, Northumbria, Oxford, Reading, Scotland, Somerset, Solent, South Wales, Three Shires, West Coast Riders, West London, West Yorkshire, Wiltshire

Motorcycle shop rescues village .....................................67Can you help the 2011 NEC Show organisers? .............99Members Free Ads .......................................................120Kicking Back .................................................................121HOConsumer ................................................................122Competition - win ‘I, Superbiker’ dvd ............................123

MEMBERS INFORMATIONDiary .............................................................................125Dealer Discounts ..........................................................128Specialist Discounts......................................................130New discount providers ................................................134Branch Contacts ...........................................................135

PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DOHOC Annual General Meeting ..........................................450th Anniversary Show ...................................................21National Rally..................................................................38Christmas Dinner Dance.................................................61Devon Social Weekend ..................................................69Oxford & Gloucester Rally ..............................................75Dorset Rally ....................................................................83HOC Roast .....................................................................90Reading Cock & Bull Rally ............................................103

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from Andy “Dibble” Young - Club Chairman

News as it happens? Join Andy Andy’s email list by sending an email to

[email protected]

Your Club Needs You!Also and perhaps even more so, your bikes. Sunday August 7th to be at Boughton House near Kettering in Northamptonshire. That is show day and we want it to be a gathering of machinery from all 5 decades of the HOC. So if you are one of the many classic owners out there or you have that very special custom paint job or you just have a used and loved Honda please, please, please get along to Boughton House.

It is FREE to enter the grounds, FREE to park your bike, there are refreshments available all day or simply bring a picnic. Light music entertainment all day from the Richtones, Spitfires overhead, John Measures our tame lawyer will be on hand with legal and claims advice, David Silvers have said they will be there along with Scala the intercoms people and of course Footman James insurers. Entry to the stunning stately home of the Duke of Buccleuch will only cost you a fiver but it is well worth the tour.

There will be prizes for the best VFR in the 25 years of VFR class, the best CB400 four in the Edelston Trophy category, also for Pan Euro, Gold Wing and several other classes including the smaller machines. It is not a concors competition it will be a public opinion fun vote in the main.

No excuses now... Be There!

Chairman Dibble Rattle’s On!“Happy Birthday”

That was the greeting from Iain Laidlaw one of the BMF judges at the recent show in Peterborough. He, together with his colleagues, had a good nose around and then went away to view the other club stands. Later in the afternoon Iain returned together with Anna Zee the chairman of the BMF and the press. You have won a prize and we would like to take a picture. So we rounded up Kim and some of the other organisers from Cambridge Branch.

Then the marquee lit up! No it was not flash from the cameras is was the beaming smile from Kim who had just been told that we had won first place in the National One Makes Club Stand competition. Yep we won. This is real kick start to our planned 50th celebrations as this was the first really big event we had tagged to show off and what a start. Suffice to say well done Kim but also well done to all who showed their bikes and made the weekend happen for us.

I am sure there will be photos and more on this in Golden Wing.

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National RallyLooming up on the horizon and plans well and truly being put in place. Not too late yet to get involved along with 250+ others for the party of the year. I know we will be seeing some old faces and some new faces and that is what it is all about getting to know the broader HOC membership. There will be ride outs and competitions. The site is ideal for families with plenty to do and for the non campers and caravan users there is a hotel at the gateway.

AGM 2011 This is booked and confirmed for Sunday 23rd of October at the Birmingham based National Motorcycle Museum.

Chairman’s ChallengeThis bit of fun competition is now well and truly underway and by the time you read this half way completed by those who took up the challenge. For those who missed the start it involves meeting me at a café having something to eat, then keeping your receipts obtaining a free meal and additionally free coffee for life. Some of the money paid for

meals then goes to our Air Ambulance charity collection. Please if you want to join in watch website for or monthly mailouts for dates and venues.

After the enthusiasm for this years one I am looking at a future set of events for the next year. Hey riding your bike, having something to eat in friendly company and making money for charity - it does not come too much better.

There you go I promised it would be better next time didn’t I.

My Contact detailsEmail [email protected] or ring 01536 359659 or even phone or text 07982419285 my shiny new mobile. I am really getting into this 21st century stuff.

“Ride on but most of all ride safe”

Cheers

“Dibble”

Honda Owners Club

AnnuAl GenerAl MeetinGI hereby give notice that the 2011 Annual General Meeting of the Honda Owners

Club (GB) will be held on Sunday 23rd October 2011 in theManxman Suite, national Motorcycle Museum, Coventry road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0eJ

Commencing at 11amTea, coffee and breakfast rolls will be available between 10 and 11am. There is a very good

restaurant in the museum or you can bring your own lunch for after the AGM. You can also visit the Museum for only £2 entry - just show your HOC membership card!

All nominations for committee posts, or resolutions to be considered, must be made in writing to the General Secretary at least 30 days before the AGM.

Nominations for committee positions must include a proposer and seconder - all of whom must be fully paid up members of the HOC at the time of the AGM.

Andy YoungHonda Owners Club (GB) Chairman

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PresidentTrevor Thompson

Vice PresidentsDave Barton,Tony Eldridge,Graham Gull

ChairmanAndy ‘Dibble’ Young

1 Severn Way, Kettering,Northants NN16 9HN

( 01536 359659 . [email protected]

General SecretaryGraham Seymour

6 Kestrel Road, Flitwick, Beds MK45 1RB(01525 633169 . [email protected]

Membership SecretaryGraham Gull

61 Vicarage Road, Ware SG12 [email protected]

Saddle Sore Shield Co-ordinatorStephen Davenport

( 07968 810435 . [email protected]

Regalia Co-ordinatorJennie Clarke

6 Bugby Way, Raunds, Northants NN9 6SX( 01933 399463 / 07759 805181

. [email protected]

TreasurerRuth Stryczko,

38 Bower Street, Bedford MK40 3RE. [email protected]

Advertising ManagerErica Gassor,

( 07799 49 2235 . [email protected]

WebmasterAndy ‘Stritchy’ Stryczko

38 Bower Street, Bedford MK40 3RE. [email protected]

BMF Liaison OfficerJim Peel-Cross

11 The Green, Wilcot, Pewsey, Wilts. SN9 5NN( 01672 563450 . [email protected]

Classic SecretaryDave Barton

53 Northlands Road, TottonSouthampton S040 3HA. [email protected]

WELCOMEWelcome to all new members who have joined the club in recent months, especially at the various shows, such as the BMF and the Ace Honda Day. I hope you enjoy your membership of the club and I know that some of you have already attended branch meetings and received a warm welcome.

MOVING?Don’t forget if you move, let me know, and no other club official, as I keep the address files up to date, (You can write or send an e-mail). So far I have two copies of the Spring magazine returned by Royal Mail with no forwarding address, so don’t let it be YOU who we lose contact with.

DIRECT DEBITDon’t forget that it makes life so much simpler to sign up for Direct Debit, so you needn’t worry about letting your membership lapse. All you need to do is return the renewal form when you receive it with your bank details and we will do the rest. Remember subscription rates are guaranteed until the end of next year.

PAYPALWhen you receive a renewal reminder, don’t forget that you can also renew your subscriptions using PayPal. Just go to our Website and follow the simple instructions.

GrahamMembership Secretary

Membership Matters

CHANGE OF ADDRESSPlease send change of address details to the

Membership Secretary, 61 Vicarage Road, Ware SG12 7BE

or e-mail [email protected]

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Branch SecretarieSthe deadline for the next Golden Wing is;

20th august 2011these pages are your advertising space, to let members who are local to you know the real

benefits of active membership. tell them what is happening in your area

Thanks to all the Branch Secretaries and contributors, whogot me their reports and articles in by the deadline.Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond my control, the magazine is still later than promised. I will try harder next time.

The sharp eyed amongst you will notice that I’m still here as Editor.

Thank you to all the people who volunteered to take over the editorship, surprising there were quite a few (some more willing than others!). I really appreciate your offers of help and will probably take you up on the offer in the future.

I always like to give credit where credit is due and this is one of those occassions. On a recent trip to Ypres with friends from the Branch, I was unfortunate enough to get a puncture in the rear tyre of my trusty Pan. Something that I share with others in this issue - see page 42!

I have breakdown recovery through my insurers, Footman James and this is the first time that I have had to use it. Expecting the worst, I called their international helpline and they were very helpful. After a false start the tyre was mended the next day and our long weekend in Belgium wasn’t ruined.

Thanks Footman James breakdown service.

Editor’s BitWhat a fantastic Anniversary year this is turning out to be!Ruth and I attended the Manhoc International celebration in June. It was very well organised and great fun. Well done to everyone concerned. It was very nice to meet and chat to the French and German bikers who had come over to celebrate with us.

Jennies Bike, Bowling and BBQ was also a great success, as was Kent Branch’s 50th Anniversary Open Day with John’s of Romford.

Congratulations to Kim and the Cambridge Branch for their ‘swansong’ BMF Show. It really was a magnificent display that they put on - well deserving the ‘Best Stand’ trophy.

The Anniversary Show on August 7th is the next major event - it’s sure to be one to remember and another great day out.

Finally, I hope that you enjoy reading this packed issue. There are lots of articles about what has been going on around the country and abroad. Unfortunately I have had to leave out a number of articles, but don’t worry, they will be in a future issue.

Stritchy

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It is with great sadness and regret that the Oxford Branch announces that one of its

members, Ian Brooks, has passed away. Ian valiantly fought a four year long battle with cancer, with his own unwavering brand of humour, courage and strength. He will be missed by us all in the Oxford Branch and by those who knew him in the wider HOC community, from the rides, rallies and club trips that he attended over the many years of his association with the club.

Ian was not one for dwelling on problems or setbacks - always looking for a positive angle and a way to move forward. His passion for motorbikes was a hallmark of his life, and the stories he would tell of his motorcycling adventures over the years would keep us amused for many hours. His wide interest had him the proud owner of a beautifully restored Honda 750 which he used to exhibit at rallies as well as a much loved Firestorm (with a slightly naughty exhaust system) and a VFR 800 among a vast number of bikes held from an early age.

Ian was a great rider, his riding skill and ability to handle a bike in all conditions made him a pleasure to ride with - whether a quick blat around the back roads or a more lengthy tour. However, the thing that many of us will miss the most will be his company. Ian had a cheeky sense of humour and a sense of fun that always made him a pleasure to be with. He could and indeed would, given the remotest opportunity drink a full bottle of vinegar if left on the table - just to see the reaction of those around him. He had a story for most occasions and could talk knowledgably about most subjects. Perhaps this was as a result of his 20 or so years as a

car salesman or perhaps just because he liked meeting people.

On our trip through the Pyrenees I learned a lot about Ian. Not having a big budget myself, Ian was willing to put up with any accommodation of my choosing - apart from camping - sometimes staying in rooms where the plaster was actually missing from the ceiling, but never complaining. Although not a religious man, he made a point of buying a bottle of Holy Water in Lourdes, “Nancy, will really love this” he said and she did treasure it - eventually baptising him (with his blessing) last Easter using the very same bottle. I got to see him tired, frustrated and also in his element on a motorcycle - he was the same throughout it all, positive helpful and a pleasure to be with. We rode hard at times and would spend the evening going over it again with a pint or two - good days.

So we will say farewell to a good fellow well met - a good biker, a warm and genuine guy with a sense of humour and a story to tell. We raise our glasses to show our appreciation and gratitude for being allowed to share a small part of his journey.

Ian Brooks, March 1948 to April 2011 - always looking on the bright side of life!

Al

Ian Brooks1948 - 2011

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Having taken over as the Display Materials coordinator, my first task was to contact every Branch Secretary to enquire what they had in stock in the way of display materials. I had only a handful of replies. “Does every Branch Secretary read their emails?” is a question that springs to mind.

The display equipment cost the Club a lot of money and I must stress how important it is to respect this equipment.

Looking after the gazebosWe have already had to purchase new carry bags for the gazebos and also new bases for the flags.

The gazebo bags appear to have been abused considerably. One reason is the weight of these does require 2 people to move. The couriers usually only send 1 man. But the main reason I feel that the bags have been damaged is due to the gazebos being put in the bags the wrong way.

The base of the gazebo i.e. the end which, when folded, forms a square base, must be put into the bag first, making contact with the metal base of the bag. This end has wheels. The straps which we now supply with the bags must then be tightened around the bag thus preventing any movement within the bag. There is also an inner bag which the gazebo must be put into before putting into the main bag. This bag is for the gazebo frame only, all sides and roof are in a separate holdall.

Display MaterialsThe gazebos at the moment are in desperate need of a clean, please make sure that when packing away any display materials that they are dry whenever possible, this will prevent any mould forming.

Getting stuff for a show/eventIf any Branch would like to borrow any equipment please can you contact me in plenty of time with details of the event and what materials you want, along with a delivery address. I also need to know if you require the flags, will these be on hard or soft standing as there is no point in me sending you the bases if not required.

Equipment we have. 2 x Gazebos. Curtain sides to 3 sides, window

side to 4th. 2 x A-frames with HOC banner. 2 x sail flags with bases. 2 x 50th Anniversary Banners

each 3m x 0.6m 2 x sets of 3 pull up banners, these are for

inside use only. Various HOC banners

There may also be other display materials held at Branches which I do not know about.

Display materials can be booked by email to [email protected]

Sue Beck

I’d love to feature your classic machine in Golden Wing.If your bike is over 10 years old and you are proud of it, please

send me 2-300 words and some pictures and it will be in the next available Golden Wing for everyone to admire.

It doesn’t matter what Honda it is, it just has to be loved (or hated) by you!

Show uS yourS

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year but that wasn’t hard and the location last year was not good - and of course the coffee shop. We are well known for our home-made cakes, teas and coffees and many members of the public have come back year after year saying we make them very welcome and of course this year we enjoyed the music of The Richtones who went down very well.

By 3.30-4pm on Sunday I was feeling a bit jaded and went in search of Paul to go for a walk round, only to discover a judge in the bike marquee waiting to do a presentation - yes, you got it, the Trophy for first place.

To say I was pleased is an understatement. In the usual manner the organisation is almost all, then nothing, then all - the booking of the marquees, catering equipment, tables chairs etc is all done early then there is a lull... then it is all systems go as the day approaches.

Cambs had decided that it was going to be their last year to organise and it was with mixed feelings that the weekend started.

Friday, as always was hectic with the setting up, especially as we had 2 marquees this year. It was hampered by the fact that there was a problem with the van and it was not picked up until Friday morning - mistake by the hire company not HOC. Anyway we set up, bikes arrived and we left Friday evening to await the weekend.

So how are you all? Well I have to say that Cambs HOC and friends are on cloud 9 - for those of you who don’t know the Honda Owners Club won 1st Prize for Best National One Makes Club Stand at the BMF Show 14th/15th May.

BMF Show 2011

The weather was with us despite thunder showers forecast. In the usual manner we had the HOC Shop selling regalia, which we understand did VERY well, the helmet park, the membership table also did well, up on last

What can I say but a HUGE THANK YOU to you all for giving up your weekend, for baking cakes and making it the success it was - THANK YOU VERY VERY MUCH - it’s great for us to bow out with this success.

Kim

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On Sunday 22nd May, I was awoken around 05.30 by the sound of rain bouncing of my trailer cover in the garden below. Could this be a dream? The weather had been brilliant for the last week and the forecast for Sunday had also been good but was our day at the Ace Café to be spoilt? Fortunately by 06.30 the rain had stopped and we strapped the Z50R to the back of the car, I rolled my NC30 out of the garage and we set off.

It was quite windy as we erected the gazebos and this was to prove a challenge throughout the day. It wasn’t too long however before we had the stand looking shipshape and a good excuse to sample one of the famous breakfasts that are on offer at the Ace.

By now the visitors were beginning to turn up and although the weather was overcast the parking area was soon full of bikes and some of them were absolute beauties. One of the early attendees was a superbly restored CB1100RD; a bike that I always wanted (before the VF1000R and then the VFR750R and then and so on…). Unfortunately the bike didn’t stay too long and missed out on an award certificate.

A very rare NR750, 32 valve, oval piston engine powered machine turned up. Owned

by a local guy, this bike had very low miles and looked like it had just come out of the factory. Although

valued at around £100,000, this bike was an absolute joy to be seen being ridden on the road and not just sitting in a museum. Manufactured to order for one year only, the bike was a technological showcase for Honda and no other manufacturer has ever produced anything that could equal, let alone surpass, its innovation.

Honda day at tHe ace

The HOC Stand

The Honda UK Display

Honda CB1100RD

The amazing Honda NR750

Honda UK were on site when we arrived and had a brought a good selection of bikes including three new Crossrunners, the CBR600F and CBR250R models. Other bikes on display included the VT750S and the VFR1200F. Graham Gull was already there and we were soon joined by Jennie Clarke who had managed to shoehorn the entire regalia stock into her car. Steve and Maureen Hill arrived shortly afterwards and we began to set up the HOC stand.

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Throughout the morning many more bikes turned up including some rare machines and some stunning specials, including a group of customised CBXs. On the subject of the CBX, there were two beautiful standard examples of the lovely six cylinder bike present; one black and one silver. A VFR750R RC30 arrived which was in need of some tlc but it was obviously still performing well as the rear tyre was worn right to the edges and had seen some serious heat. Other nice specials included a CB650

café racer and a CB750KZ which was modelled on a late 70s endurance racer.

The car park was soon completely full of bikes and

the Monkey Bike group had to spill over on to the pavement outside. Unfortunately there are less and less genuine Honda Monkey bikes around now and the majority of bikes at the Ace were clones. Honda do still manufacture the CRF50 which is an off road version and in Japan, the Z50 is available with a modern fuel injected engine, however cheap Chinese copies available for less than £1000 new are much easier to come by. Around midday, 50 Monkey and Dax models headed off for their round London ride.

This year we presented certificates to bikes that were deemed best in class. The judges concurred unanimously on many of the awards and Dave Barton and Steve Hill are to be thanked for their assistance.

Honda UK General Manager, Steve Martindale and Marketing Communications Manager, Fiona Cole were also present at the Ace and Steve spent some time with us on the stand. Jennie had been baking specially for Steve and presented him with a Manchester Tart, one of his favourites.

CB650 Café Racer

Steve Martindale and Jennie

Superb CBX1000

VFR800 Anniversary

In the afternoon the wind seemed to strengthen and as we were having trouble holding the gazebos down we started to pack up around 1600. In my opinion it was a very successful day for the HOC with members attending from at least 15 branches, ranging from the South coast to Yorkshire. Graham reported that we recruited seven new members on the day and many more took away information with a view to joining the HOC. Jennie sold nearly £550 worth of regalia from the stand which was an amazing effort. Thanks must go to all the volunteers who gave up their time to make the day what it was; Graham Gull, Jennie Clarke, Erica Gassor, Steve and Maureen Hill, Pete Johnston, Jim Richmond and Marion Ward.

I for one am looking forward to the next Ace Café event at which we will be representing the HOC, the Rockers Reunion at Brighton sea front on Sunday, 12th September, 2011.

Chris Ward

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AND THE MORAL OF THE STORY IS…..It will never happen to me. Well, it did. The Blackbird was fully loaded and Beth and I were looking forward to a weekend rally. We were on the way to a friend’s house to ride up together and were travelling along a quiet estate road looking for the left turn into our friend’s cul-de-sac. Just as we were turning into their road, I felt an impact and the bike being pushed forward and onto its left side. A car totally oblivious of our presence had reversed out of a drive on our right and collided with the rear of our offside pannier. Beth managed to turn round and bang on the back window of the car. By this time, the bike was well over with me trying to hold it upright. There was no way that my pride and joy was going to have a lay-down, so I managed to yank it up, how I don’t know. The lady driver then said she hadn’t seen me and I must have reversed into her car! So there you have it, Blackbirds, unbeknown to their owners, do appear to have a reverse gear. Although she was keen to move her car, I insisted that I took a photo which will prove very useful if her memory is as bad as her driving. Only then did we exchange the customary details.So how the biker who is involved in an accident avoids taking the blame for a collision which was not their fault? I would suggest the following:-

• Obtain the registration number of the other vehicle.

• Name address and insurance details of the other driver.

• Witnesses – I know that I keep going on about the importance of witnesses especially those who are independent. If at all possible, ensure that you get the names, telephone numbers and addresses of witnesses. If you cannot do this due to your injuries then ask a bystander to do it for you. Although the Police will take witness details it is possible that by the time the Police arrive, the witnesses are long gone. Additionally, the Police will not release witness details whilst their enquiries are ongoing and this may delay persuading the third party insurers admit liability. In my case, a chap who heard the commotion came out to see what was happening.

Although he had not seen the collision, he was able to witness the position of the cars and hear the lady say that she had not seen me prior to the impact. All good evidence.

• Photographs – at one time, we were recommended to carry disposable cameras. However with the advent of camera mobile phones, disposable cameras are a thing of the past. Try to get as many photographs as you can prior to the vehicles being moved. Although helpful members of the public will try and move the vehicles, ask them not to do so until the photographs have been taken. If this delays other motorists for a few minutes, so be it. Again if you are unable to take the photographs yourself as a bystander but ensure that you get their contact details for the photographs to be sent to you when requested.

• If the third party is filled with remorse and is apologising profusely admitting liability, then get them to confirm this in writing with their signature and date. If they admit that

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the accident was their fault in front of the Police Officer, ask the Officer to write the statement in their pocket book. I appreciate that insurance companies advise their insured not to admit liability at the scene, but this may prevent the driver from changing their story later.

• As soon as practically possible prepare a sketch plan and a statement. Sign and date both of them.

• Do not be afraid to call the Police. If there are no injuries, the Police may not attend, however, it is always best to seek Police and medical assistance if you are injured.

• Clothing – a biker is 300 times more likely to be seen if wearing high visibility clothing. I was wearing a hi-vis vest and had my headlight on but she still didn’t see me. However, I would always advocate wearing hi-vis clothing.

• Call 0800 021 3065 and speak to me as soon as possible. This number is linked to my mobile telephone and advice is available during evenings and at weekends.

So often, the third party will apologise at the scene saying that they accept full responsibility for the accident. The biker takes this on face value and the witnesses disappear. Don’t be surprised when you later call the third party, they have changed their mind and allege that you were speeding, riding recklessly or some other excuse to avoid liability. If they do so, all the best evidence that was available at the scene of the accident has now gone leaving your word against the other driver.

The moral is... never take things on face value!

Always assume that the other driver will deny liability either at the scene or when reporting the matter to their insurers. This does not mean that you should be aggressive or confrontational but neither does it mean that you should fail to carry out what are very simply steps to give you the best chance of securing a full admission of liability and

moreover making your solicitor’s life much easier.

When reporting the accident to your insurers, they will attempt to persuade you to use their approved solicitors. The reality of the situation is that your insurer will “sell” your case to their panel solicitor for a high fee. More likely than not, your claim will be dealt with by an unqualified claims handler who may have more than 200 other cases to manage. The choice who represents you is yours and you do not have to accept the recommendation of your insurer. Having been associated with the Honda Owners Club for many years, I am proud that they recommended my services to their membership. I am a solicitor, Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives, Fellow of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers and Member of the Law Society Personal Injury Panel with over 25 years experience in personal injury law. I also have been a motorcyclist for 40 years. As a thank you to the HOC, I donate £100 into their funds in respect of every case that I take on. The member can then be certain of receiving a first class service by a specialist biker accident solicitor and will receive 100% of their compensation. This facility includes HOC members, their family and friends whether the accident involves a motorcycle, car or bicycle. We also have a specialist solicitors dealing with all other aspects of Personal Injury and Medical Negligence.

John Measures

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Leave it to your insurer and you could well end upwith a solicitor who knows nothing about bikes orbiking. You could even find yourself in the hands ofsomeone who is not qualified as a solicitor.

Choosing Barratts puts you straight in touch with solicitor John Measures- 40 years a biker andover 25 years dealing with personal injury claims.

Who wouldyou preferfightingyour case ?

[email protected] www.bgtbikersolicitors.co.uk

Choosing asolicitor afteryou’ve had amotorcycleinjury should notbe left to chance

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KEEP IT LIVE?With the season now in full flow and some excellent racing already having taken place, I have been pondering on the merits of television coverage versus ‘being there’.

One of the many joys of motorcycling is the camaraderie and this is often at it’s best at a race meeting. The tour of the pits is always a fascinating event and even if the crowds are several thick, it is great to get a glimpse of one of the talented riders in reality rather than watching them on the box. The commentary over the microphones is often lost but the excitement of watching the bikes coming into view and seeing if your particular favourite is in front takes a lot of beating.

Apart from the racing itself, during the ride to the track, English or European, some superb roads can be found and, after all, riding our bikes is what it is all about.

In an ideal world, it would be great to go to every meet and have the video on at home to watch the bits you may have missed but time and money constraints don’t always allow this.

When it comes down to it, I believe that you see far more on the box than you can at the track but nothing compares with the atmosphere of being there. What is you view?

Stiggette

There are obvious cost implications with going to the actual races themselves, both in entrance fees and in this day and age, petrol costs, I am sure everyone’s activities are governed by their available cash but putting that aside mentally for a moment - which is best?

Sitting down with a cool drink in a comfortable chair, unaffected by the weather and watching as the commentators travel the grid and listening to the interviews is fascinating, as are some of the topics discussed in the studio between the guests. Once the racing commences you hardly miss a trick watching the riders as they vie for the podium places and then, once the winner has succeeded, seeing their reactions as they are presented with their awards and the after race interviews.

TV coverage is good but... where is the atmosphere, the noise of the engines,

the smells and the roar of the

crowd when the favourite

takes the lead.

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CLUB CORNER 1970 - 1979

So here we are in 1970. As 250cc owners things are changing as Honda introduced the CB250 at the end of 1967 and upgraded it to the CB250 K1 in 1969. The new 250 was a more sporty machine with modern styling for the time. So into 1970 and we had the Brighton Show with the first time that we had to put our mitts on and see the new four cylinder CB750. Some of us club members helped run the Honda display and I for one had time to admire this machine.Also on show were the new CB125, CB175, CD175, CB250 K2 and CB450 K1. The CB125 / 175 were the first of the twin cylinder machines with twin carburettors and 12v electrics. The CB450 K1 was a total revamp with a five speed gearbox making a far better usable package. The CD175 was a twin but only fitted with one carburettor and no electric starter. Priced at £220 to take on the BSA Bantam market.

1973 and we have grown to seven branches. Albert Connick (London), N Jarratt (Manchester), Trevor Thompson (Birmingham), Jim Wheeler (Oxford) Dave Barton (Southampton), Rob Cousins (Thames Valley), Dave Linden (Teeside). Ther is now almost 500 members. So at last we are taking shape and growing.

We are holding more club gatherings and meeting other members. We spend time meeting at Brands Hatch by the Ambulance Gate at South Bank.

The Left hand picture shows (L to R) Tony Eldridge’s new CB750, Pete Goodger’s CB450K1 in white and my CB450. In the middle of the right hand picture

is Albert Connick in his blue hat that he used all the time and Tony Eldridge in his blue shirt both looking at our machines. I wonder what marks they gave us out of ten? I will clean it one day Tony!

The other picture shows the Southampton Branch club night. Meeting in the changing room at the Testwood

Recreation Ground. On the right hand side is “Glenister David Hamling” looking at his very new CD175. Glenister at 6’5’’ tall and riding the 175 he found that he had to move his knee out the way when he turned sharp left or right. Or the handlebars would hit his knee and restrict the turn. I always said that we should inform the DVLA that we were doing “knee signals not hand signals”. On the left is Alec Ball who at the time was the Public Relations Officer for the club next to his CB450.

So now along comes the New CB500 Four. It is smaller and lighter that the CB750 Four and it makes everyone riding it finish up with one big smile. So if you can’t beat them? Then join them. July 72 I part/ex my CB750K1 for

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a new one, and am chuffed to nuts with it. In fact I had three of them. The last one I fitted a CB750 fuel tank which then gave me a range of just over 200 miles. Fantastic for those long club runs.

1974 and Honda take motorcycling to a new dimension introducing the “Gold Wing”. At the time I thought that it was simply amazing and purchased one. Covering about 30,000 miles on it before changing it for a CBX1000. Our new Brighton Branch Secretary Chris Williams had his Gold Wing complete with sidecar sprayed gold. Now that is what I call dedication to the full. Then in 1975 he asks if we can form a section within our club just for the “Gold Wing”? At the next committee meeting we talk about it and decide; No to forming any sections within the H.O.C. So Chris Williams decided to leave us and form a club the “Goldwing Owners Club (GB).” And as they say, the rest is history.

before Jean took over as Secretary. He was a “Real American Go Getter” and showed great enthusiasm for any job at hand. Bob Hammond covering a new Ipswich branch as secretary.

So by 1977 we have grown to twenty one branches and now with over nine hundred members. I think that this club is now finding its feet. In sixteen years we have shown that we are organising and developing into an established motorcycle club. Also now Honda give us the last of the single overhead fours with the CB760 K6 and CB750F2. Then the following year we get a hay maker the CBX1000 “Honda Six”. I had known that there was going to be a six cylinder machine for over a year but we did not know the size. Then once I had seen it for the first time... it was love at first sight. Just the same as the CB750 in 1969. My excuse is that I don’t think that I will ever grow up and will always be one big kid and a biker. So here I am in 1978 owning a CBX. The first ride home is something that I will never forget.

So here in 1979 we are enjoying our motorcycling. Over the years we have changed branch secretaries and grown larger in size. In the early years all knew each other as the club was so small. So branch activities with contacts with each other had grown with us learning from each branch. You felt part of a small team and enjoyed the company. In much the same way as we do now. I think that this is what makes us a good club to belong to.

Honda have now given us the D.O.H.C. CB750/ CB900 Fours, CX500 “V Twins” and the “Super Dreams” CB250N/ CB400N and our motorcycling could not be more enjoyable. So it now must be time for me to get my CB500T out for a run white the sun is shining.

Let the good times roll

Let the Good Times Roll

Dave Barton

CB400/4 Test - Bike Magazine July 1975

Honda are now change the range. We are now up to the CB750 K6 and a CB750 F1 with a four into one exhaust system. We also now get our “Baby Four” the “CB400F” which is loved by everyone. It is the smallest four and it’s weight means that it makes a great young ladies machine. I only with that they would slow down a bit and let us catch up now and again. We also now have the CB500T which is the last of the D.O.H.C. 450/500cc twins. It chocolate with gold stripping it looks just fabulous with classic styling.

The club branches have grown with Phil Manning starting North London with Jean Wilson as treasurer. In fact it was not too long

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ShowBoughton House - Sunday 7th August

Show opens at 9.30am Everyone welcome - no matter what you ride

FREE admission and parking

Show off your bike - no matter what it is and you could win a prize!

Prizes for best bikes at the show

Professional photos of your bike available on the day

Only £5 to tour the house (usually £10)

Live music from the Richtones

Refreshments available all day or bring your own picnic

Contact Dibble on 01536 359659 or go to www.show.hoc.org.uk

Boughton House, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN14 1BJ

Unique display of Hailwood, Redman and Haslam bikes

Displays from other Honda bike clubs

Flypast by two Battle of Britain Flight Spitfires

Edelston Trophy for best HOC members 400/4

Many traders including: David Silver Spares, Barratts Solicitors (John Measures) and Footman James amongst others...

Collections in aid of the UK’s Air Ambulances

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‘Ow do all! I must start this “offering” with a big thank you to those who have been promoting the club around the country not only wearing, but also buying and selling, the club regalia. Sterling efforts made by all and greatly appreciated. With the Rally and event season well underway it’s great to see the boxes of goodies travelling around and doing the best we can to make sure as many folks as possible get to see “up close and personal” the items available (just sent one over to the IoM to Karen and John at the Manx Branch for their stand at Laxey!) so. THANK YOU!

We still have the HOC Shop www.shop.hoc.org.uk with a link to the Anniversary page on the website - cheers to Stritchy for keeping them up to date! Oh, and don’t forget if you are planning an event and want me to bring along the regalia then just ask! If I can, I will be happy to be there!

By the time this goes to print I shall have had the pleasure of seeing (and broken bread with) many of you at the superb Norfolk Lings Day, the Wilts Spring Rally, the excellent North London High Beech Event where the delightful Michaela happily modelled our anniversary T-shirt.

Regalia Related Ramblings…

The award - winning BMF show, where the “HOC Shop” achieved unprecedented sales exceeding £1,000 over the 2 days, thanks mainly to the brilliant team of “sales assistants” from Cambridge and West Yorkshire Branches and a variety of unsuspecting, I mean, um, willing customers,

including one of the many new members to sign up!

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As I type, I am looking forward to and preparing for, the Honda Day at the Ace, with the Clappers Rally, Bikes, Bowls & BBQ in Northants/Beds, Solent, East Midlands & the Oxford /Gloucs Rallies all yet to come! With plans aplenty for the Boughton House show in August & the rest of our very special anniversary rally too! Phew! It’s going to be busy! But oh so much fun!!

We have now almost sold out of the embossed keyfobs and stocks of the rest of the Limited Edition goodies are beginning to run low, particularly the Buffs, Stickers and Bags... so if you want them get them ordered fast! If you are going to the Summer Show and want to save some £££’s on P&P, give me a call or better yet, e-mail me and we will arrange for your items to be ready for collection at the show! Remember that clothing has to be ordered well in advance please as I hold very limited stock of the clothing other than the t-shirts.

I was asked (fairly politely) to keep my ramblings to more of a short stroll, so that’s it for now… well, almost, I end with a picture of who must be my most patient customer to date - Graham Kearton - he kindly sent me a photo to prove that he did indeed, finally, get his 50th Anniversary rugby shirt and that it fits! Cheers for that Graham! Glad it was worth the wait.

Safe travels & very happy biking! Further ramblings in the next issue!

Jennie

Motorcycle News shows photos of their readers with their rag in far flung or bizarre places. I thought it would be fun to do the same. Send me your photos of HOC (either general or 50th Anniversary) regalia being worn/used in a variety of ways and/or settings! (I know - worms, can, opened…)

Here’s a f’rinstance: the wonderfully versatile 50th Anniversary drawstring bag (filled

with the essential bottled

water, sunblock and loo roll) resting at the feet of a Rams head sphinx at Karnack Temple.

Previously I have seen the Buffs worn as various bits of pirate attire too (you know who you Ahaaaarrrrr!) so.. I await (and not without some trepidation) your offerings!

The prize will be presented at the AGM in October.. and no, I’m not going to tell you what the prize is.. it’ll be a surprise! But it will be well worth having and portable enough to transport on a bike!

Rules of the competition►There are no limits to the numbers of photos you can submit.►They must be of the same quality needed for Golden Wing -

no web pics! ►They must be suitable for publication - so no obscenities,

nudity or naughtiness please! ►The regalia item has to be clearly recognisable. ►E-mail photos to [email protected] and write “SNAPPED

UP” in the subject box please.►Competition closes on Friday 30th September.►There is no cash alternative.►The judges decision is final, so there.

“SNAPPED UP” COMPETITION

TOP TIP - the Buffs are ace for putting drops of Olbas oil on and using as a way to self-medicate a bunged up snozz all day AND look chic at the same time! (No, you don’t push it up your nostrils!) Trust me on this one! Demonstrations available upon request!

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Tougher road safety measures are being introduced in France, to cut road deaths and are aimed at speeding motorists, drink drivers and motorcyclists.

In all, 17 measures are being introduced. Here are the ones that directly affect riders:

• The end of signs giving advance warning of speedtraps (and the published maps of speedtrap sites) Warning signs for radars - which at present are fitted within 400m of older radars and up to 2km from new installations - will be taken down and drivers will not be alerted to the presence of speed traps. Maps publicising the placement of radars and speed controls will no longer be published. Plans have already been announced for an extra 1,000 speed camera sites across France.

• Speeding at more than 50kph above the limit is punishable with jailDrivers who speed at more than 50kph (31mph) above the set limit will, from the first offence, be liable to three months prison, a €3,750 fine and six points from their licence. In 2010 there were 25,046 such offences.

Remember, Ireland has now decided that full sleeve dayglo is a good idea too and the EU anti-tampering regulation, compulsory ABS et al, is still ongoing.

French biker groups, FEMA, our BMF and MAG have all supported the demonstrations in France against the more restrictive aspects of the proposed laws.

Similar legislation could be introduced into the UK...

Compulsory Dayglo Proposed in France

• Motorcycle and scooter riders must wear reflective or high-visibility jacketsUsers of two-wheeler of more than 125cc face having to wear jackets with reflective bands or high-visibility jackets to make them easier to see if they fall off their machines. Non-use will mean the loss of two points from the licence.

• Bike numberplates to be made larger.Motorcycle numberplates will be made larger so they can be traced more easily for speed offences. New plates will be 275x200 mm and will be fitted to new or newly-registered vehicles. Any numberplate that does not conform to regulations (car or motorcycle) will face a €135 fine - British number plates are 230x180mm.

• Retest for ‘lapsed’ ridersRiders who have not ridden for five years will face an automatic retest.

If you have an opinion on this, or anything else in Golden Wing, please e-mail [email protected] or write to

Golden Wing, Kicking Back, 38 Bower Street, Bedford MK40 3RE

KicKing BacK...

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I was lucky enough to be able to ride the Honda Crossrunner, courtesy of Rochdale Honda. These are my initial impressions.For those who don’t know (and where have you been?), the Crossrunner is a VFR800 engine and chassis in an adventure/trailie style layout.Walking up to the bike, it looks quite large at the front, but I guess with side mounted radiators, it’s not going to be sports bike slim. It looks nicely put together with some good enhancements to the old VFR800 (For example - I used to have one and the speedo sensor point was always filling with water

- they’ve moved it on the Crossrunner). Kevin pushed it outside and I got ready for the ride. One quick press of the starter and it fired into life. Much quicker than my CBF1000 - that’s nice. The instrument display is a copy of the CBR600F,

which I knew, so I was happy with

the layout. It includes

instant and average

fuel consumption so most people are catered for. But not a gear indicator which in this day, I still find strange on Hondas (well done Suzuki for leading the way here). Only 5 miles on the clock, so I’d better take it easy for a while. But I do know that Honda don’t limit the revs when running in, they just say “be kind to it”.I jumped on - hum, a long way to the ground for my little legs. Never mind, let’s go. So, off into the traffic and damp roads. Seems easy to ride - and I love the sound of the V4 engine burbling away beneath me. Right and turn and “BARRPP” - oh yes, they’ve swapped the horn and indicator buttons (ala VFR1200). Never mind, I’m sure I’ll get used to it. So, onto the motorway and open it up - Oh yes, there goes the

VTEC valves. As the engine approaches 7,000 rpm the other two valves per cylinder open up and the engine noise changes

very nicely. But no massive step in

power, just a gradual push in the back to let

first ride review by Alan Sharkey

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you know it’s on its way. So, that’s another improvement from the old VFR800 engine. I could get used to this.Approaching 3 figures on the clock and the screen is working well and the mirrors (handlebar mounted) are crystal clear - no vibration at all. But, the junction approaches and it’s time for the twisties. Turn off, turn right (BARRPP) and off we go up the back roads at the top of the Pennines. It’s blowing a gale across the road, but the bike is well planted and doesn’t seem to worry at all. Left, right, up hills, down dales, nothing seems too much trouble for the well set up chassis and engine. After about 30 miles I can feel the engine loosening up and this is reflected in the better fuel consumption I can see on the display. So, time to reset it and see if it improves from the 7.4m/l it has been showing (that’s 34 mpg in old money). More twisty roads, some town work and back onto the motorway for the last 4 miles back to the shop. At which time, it was showing 10 m/l which is 45 mpg - much more realistic and I’m sure it can only get better over time. With a large 21.5l tank, the range of well over 200 miles is perfect for touring.Back at Rochdale Honda, I got off and walked around it. Nothing ached on me so that was OK (I didn’t even think about a sore ass, so

the seat is fine). The bike looked surprisingly clean considering the weather and roads. That may be the adventure style tyres moving the water out of the way rather than onto the engine. I lifted the seat to see if there is any space underneath. Nope - no room at all. But it does come with full luggage (extra cost of course), so that’s not a big deal.In conclusion, this is a VFR800 for those who don’t want to lean forward too much. Honda have listened to our gripes about the vtec “kick” and have successfully addressed our concerns. There are some nice extra touches

like the fuel consumption meter (the fuel gauge is still there, of course). It’s got two headlights (stacked) and I bet they will be good at night. It’s got luggage, you can get a centre stand and it’s reasonably priced (around £1000 cheaper than a VFR800). So, why wouldn’t you buy one? I’m seriously considering it.

My thanks to Kevin at Rochdale Honda for the chance to be the first person to

ride the bike. I know I won’t

be the last!

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If you haven’t taken a look recently please go to www.hoc.org.uk and see what we have to offer. We try to keep the site up-to-date with news from the Branches, Honda press releases, MotoGP, WSB and BSB racing and anything else that may be of interest.

FACEBOOK & TWITTERMany members and quite a few Branches are now on Facebook. Yes, it’s mostly full of inane chatter, but you don’t have to accept everyone as a friend! The good thing is that it’s a great way of keeping in touch.

The HOC is now also on Twitter #HOCgb (21st century or what!) However if you don’t want to be a Twit yourself, but are on Facebook, search for Hoc Tweet and become a friend. The HOC’s tweets are repeated there and you will see them as they appear.

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALMany of you may not be aware that you can renew your HOC membership. Go to www.shop.hoc.org.uk and click on renew at the

top of the page.

All money is handled safely and securely by PayPal - but you don’t need a PayPal account, as you can use your credit or debit card.

After you have renewed, have a

look at the shop where you can buy Club and limited edition 50th Anniversary regalia.

The web is all very fascinating, however… riding your bike is infinitely preferable to sitting in front of a computer!

The HOC e-News is sent every week, on a Saturday morning, keeping you up-to-date with everything that is happening in the Club. There are over already over 2000 subscribers, not all HOC members. It’s very easy to sign up, go to www.e-news.hoc.org.uk and add your e-mail.

Regular items include: the diary of Club events for the following 2 weeks; other events that you might want to go to; all the news from the website; Honda news; racing reports and dates; latest offers from suppliers such as Duke, Buster’s, Hein Gericke and many more.

We also run exclusive competitions - so what have you got lose - sign up today!

Pearl Cool White / Hyper Red

Pearl Cool White / Moody Blue Metallic

Pearl Nightstar Black / Mat Cynos Grey Metallic

www.honda.co.ukHonda Contact Centre: 0845 200 8000

NEW CBR600FTHE RETURN OF THE LEGEND.

14459 HUK CBR600F CorpAd_A5RidersDigest.indd 1 25/11/10 11:34:51

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Pearl Cool White / Hyper Red

Pearl Cool White / Moody Blue Metallic

Pearl Nightstar Black / Mat Cynos Grey Metallic

www.honda.co.ukHonda Contact Centre: 0845 200 8000

NEW CBR600FTHE RETURN OF THE LEGEND.

14459 HUK CBR600F CorpAd_A5RidersDigest.indd 1 25/11/10 11:34:51

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The Honda CBR600F at Tippetts

Honda has sold almost 600,000 600cc bikes over the last 24 years with over 230,000 of them being the CBR600F. I guess it’s no surprise then that the model, which has been absent from the Big H line up for a few years, has been re-introduced in the form of a super modern up to date package. The new CBR600F shares many components with the Hornet but features the added protection of a full fairing and ABS as standard. Tippetts of Surbiton supplied the test bike for review which also featured some optional parts; a taller tinted screen, a colour coded rear hugger and a very nice Akrapovic exhaust.

The engine starts straight away on the button as you would expect and soons settles to a very consistent idle. Once on the move the first thing you notice is the excellent riding position with the higher bars and comfortable seat ensuring long days in the saddle will not be a problem. The engine, which is a 100BHP detuned version of the 2007 CBR600RR motor, has excellent fuelling and pulls cleanly from low revs with no jerkiness or flat spots and was quite happy to ride around at 30MPH in sixth gear. There is no sudden rush of power though, just a smooth delivery all through the rev range. The Akrapovic exhaust emits a sweet sound around town but is drowned at by the wind at higher speeds and is not at all anti social.

Test Rideby Chris Ward

The rear hugger is a sensible option

Akrapovic exhaust

The gearbox felt very positve with a nice light action, without any of the clunkiness often found on new bikes. Riding at 70MPH on the A3, I felt like the bike could have done with another gear as approximately 5500RPM were showing on the fully electronic dash.

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Thanks to Tippetts of Surbiton for the loan of the bike

At this speed the wind did not cause any problems although as previously mentioned this particular bike was fitted with a higher screen. Turning off onto some quieter roads allowed me to explore the handling and I wasn’t dissapointed. The CBR600F has very positive steering and turned easily into medium speed corners, the light weight allowing quick changes of direction. The Bridgestone BT012 tyres felt reassuring and provided good levels of grip. All UK models of the CBR600F are fitted with C-ABS as standard and they easily pulled the bike up from speed without any fuss with plenty of feel. In normal riding though the engine provided lots of braking as you dropped down through the gears.

C-ABS is fitted as standard

The CBR600F is a genuine all round bike which will feel equally at home commutting, touring or having fun at a track day. It is very easy to ride, comfortable, has a smooth engine and gearbox, a good chassis and brakes. I’m sure this bike will

sell well for Honda as

it ticks all the boxes

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For further details or to make a booking, please call Steph on 07809 464 050

Whether a seasoned Off-Roader or a complete novice, we have great days out for any bikers who want to get down and dirty!

ENDURO STYLEOFF-ROAD DAYS

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In association with

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For further details or to make a booking, please call Steph on 07809 464 050

Whether a seasoned Off-Roader or a complete novice, we have great days out for any bikers who want to get down and dirty!

ENDURO STYLEOFF-ROAD DAYS

MOTO-X TRACK DAYS1-2-1 MOTO-X TRAININGRIDE oUTSHEN AND STAG PARTIESCORPORATE EVENTS

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HOC visit the Thames Valley & Chiltern Air

AmbulanceThe Oxford Branch enjoyed

an excellent morning with the Thames Valley and Chiltern

Air Ambulance at RAF Benson - looking around ‘Bob’ the

helicopter, finding out nore about this vital service and meeting

the guys who do the work. TV&CAA have a new facebook

page specifically for bikers called ‘Heli-bikes’ - lots of interesting

stuff on there.

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After a break of several years, the Welsh International Motorcycle Show returned to Builth Wells on Whitsun weekend, 27th to 30th May 2011 and HOC was there to celebrate the event.

Vee haff vays of making you sign up!

Having never organised a stand at a big event like this before, I was very apprehensive about how it would all turn out. However, I needn’t have worried. Members of HOC, particularly the South Wales Branch, rallied round and helped out. They were marvellous.

Before I carry on, I have to give special thanks to Jim Berry, a HOC member from Weston. He came up Friday morning and stayed all weekend. His help was invaluable; especially setting up the stand on Friday with Gareth. He was also a lot of fun to be with. Thanks, Jim. We couldn’t have done it without you.

Other valued members were Alan and Julie Harper, Phil James and Alun Salisbury. They all worked really hard, but we had a lot of fun as well. Julie had never slept in a tent before, so it was definitely a new experience for her. She rose to the challenge, though and really ‘mucked’ in. It was great!

Gareth and Jim arrived at the Royal Welsh Showground at Builth Wells on Friday morning. They set up the HOC stand ready for the rest of us. We were really lucky to find ourselves in one of the huge barns, normally used for showing cattle; but at least we were dry.

We had a huge area of the barn to ourselves. We could have shown 20 bikes or more if we had that many. Anyway, Jim put his bike on the stand, polished to within an inch of its life and then Phil and Alun brought theirs in too.

HOC Rocks!The stand looked brilliant. But I turned my back for 1 minute and Gareth managed to charm a very sexy looking lady to pose in front of it. I don’t know how he did it, she was charging £10 for a picture, he got it free. What a charmer!

Just along from us, were the Gold Wing Owners’ Club, who were really welcoming and friendly. They were very interested in making connections with our club and we even managed to sell them some regalia!

The ground itself is really huge and there were many different traders on site, selling a variety of bike-orientated goods. There were lots of different stalls selling bike gear, boots, gloves, etc. There were all the spare parts and bits and pieces stalls. There was a fairground and bouncy castles for the kids and a ‘birds of prey’ display from a local hawking centre.

Sexy lady

One of the main features of the Welsh bike is as it always has been, the excellent bands that play over the weekend. There were two stages, both playing live music from 4.30pm until way into the night. There was also an adult bar, with comedians, a bucking bronco and a Miss Wet T-shirt competition. (We gave that one a miss!)

Headlining, on the Friday night on the main stage, was a band called Hi-on Maiden, a tribute band as I think you’d guess. They were really good. Also, there was a Paul Rodgers tribute band, called Get Rodgered, who entertained us with a selection from Free and Bad Company.

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the Holocaust. I considered taking a picture to send with this report, but decided against it, erring on the side of good taste.

On the HOC stand it was really busy. I was amazed at how many people flooded in. We had a lot of people were very interested in becoming members. There were numerous people from West and Mid Wales who were keen, but would like a Branch near them. I think there is definitely scope for another Branch in this area, if we can get reliable people to set it up.

Other highlights of the weekend were: an exceptional performance from local band, S*E*X. They really entertained the crowd with their high camp rock. Brilliant! The bass guitarist performed almost completely naked, except for a tiny g-string. It was mad. We were also treated to some old fashioned soul music from Big Macs Wholly Soul Band. I’m still aching from all the dancing. I really should remember my age sometimes.

Headlining on Sunday night were Hells Bells, an AC/DC tribute band. They went down a storm with the head banging heavy metal brigade. I can’t keep up with the head banging these days, my neck gets too stiff!

Naked bass gutarist

S*E*X

As neat as two Pans

There was a good selection of bikes and trikes on show. However, I don’t think it was as well supported as it used to be. Perhaps it will take a while to build itself up again after the break.

One of the talking points of the weekend was a bike with a paint job called Genocide. Some people loved it but a lot of people found it offensive. It had a swastika for the spokes and SS for the handlebars. The tank was painted black with a barbed wire design on it. On top of this were horrible pictures of the suffering during

Gareth, Jim and Julie with froghat

I was a little disappointed that no members turned up just to say ‘Hi’. It would have been really nice. Apart from those of us on the stand, we only met one man who said he was a HOC member already. We really need to more to get more of Wales on board. I think we made a good start this weekend.

Unfortunately, once the judging of the bikes had taken place on Sunday afternoon, a lot of people moved their bikes out. In previous years, there was a rule that you couldn’t move your bike off site until 2.00pm on Monday, because people paying to come in on Monday would want to see a full show. A lot of the traders packed up then, because they didn’t want people complaining to them on Monday. As it turned out, the organisers decided not to sell tickets for Monday as there wasn’t enough left to show.

It’s the first year that Dragon Events have held this show and I think they have a little bit to learn yet, about how to organise an event of this nature. Having said that, it was a really good weekend and we had a fantastic time. If the organisers reflect on this and make some improvements for next year, I think it could become as great as it once was; if not greater.

Donna

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Either complete this Clothing Form and send it with payment to: HOC National Rally 2011, 38 Bower Street, Bedford MK40 3RE

or purchase on-line at www.hoc.org.uk/2011national.htmlQuestions? Contact Ruth on 077604 15347 or [email protected]

Please state your chest size (in inches or cm) when

ordering - if in doubt, please askImages are for illustrative purposes only, colour and final design may vary.

Name:

Address:

Post Code:

Tel No.:

E-mail:

Branch:

Membership Number:

TOTAL COST £

Please order me:T-shirts:Size: Quantity:Size: Quantity:Size: Quantity:

Polo shirts:Size: Quantity:Size: Quantity:Size: Quantity:

Sweatshirts:Size: Quantity:Size: Quantity:Size: Quantity:

Cheque made payable to “Honda Owners Club (GB)”

PLEASE NOTE: cLOThiNg iS ONLY AvAiLAbLE fOr cOLLEcTiON AT ThE NATiONAL rALLY

Rally Clothing OrderWe are producing a range of rallyclothing to choose from:

Adult Sweatshirt - £14.99 Childrens Sweatshirt - £9.99

Adult Polo Shirt - £12.99 Childrens Polo Shirt - £8.99

Adult T-shirt - £8.99 Childrens T-shirt - £6.99

Sweat and Polo shirts have the National Rally logo embroidered on the left breast, but the T-shirt is screenprinted on front and back. They’re only available in black.

Orders for clothing MUST be received by Saturday 20th August

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50th ANNivERSARy NAtiONAl RAlly

Billing Aquadrome Crow Lane, Great Billing, Northampton NN3 9DA

The 2011 Honda Owners Club National Rally is taking place in the Rose of the Shires, Northamptonshire, in the centre of England.Billing Aquadrome is set in 235 acres of parkland and has recently benefited from a huge investment programme to ensure the park amenities offer outstanding choice and variety including the newly completed state of the art leisure centre, The Venue.

The busy weekend includes*:

Friday 16th - Monday 19th September

www.hoc.org.uk/2011national.html

• Book your fancy dress for Saturday night

• Welcome “get to know you” party, with FREE carvery on Friday night in The Venue

• Selection of local real ales in The Venue bar

• Bar open until 1am every night

• Excellent ride-out around the varied roads of Northants with lunch on Saturday

• Fancy dress party and brilliant live band ‘Camouflage’ on Saturday night

• FREE buffet on Saturday night in The Venue

• 50th anniversary celebration fireworks on Saturday night

• Scatter Rally all weekend

• Go carting competition

• Big screen MotoGP on Sunday

• Ride-out and test-rides courtesy of Grafton Motorcycles on Sunday

• You’re the star in the ‘HOC’s Got Talent’ competition on Sunday night in The Venue.

We have The Venue to ourselves for Saturday night’s evening entertainment, we will be sharing with other holiday makers on the other nights, but have an area allocated specially for us. The cost of entertainment is included in the accommodation and Day Pass prices. *Exact details may be subject to change.

Brilliant live Band

FREE Carvery &

Buffet

Fancy Dress Party

Great ride-outs

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Sunshine, bikes and bbq! What more could you want - oh yes! Bowling and buns too! We had it all on June 4th as the weather was more than kind for the 11 riders who did the early ride led by Glen (Beds branch) from the Chequers in Streatley to the AMF bowling centre in Wellingborough - by this time some of us had already arrived and were ready to get bowling!

50th Anniversary Bikes, Bowling & BBQ!

16 happy bowlers representing Oxford, Beds, Northants and Cambridge

branches… in total - 4 teams of 4 played 2 games. Loads of laughter and very varied methods of getting the pins down (or not in some cases) and before we knew it, it was

Mia (Reading), Claire (Wiltshire) and Roger (Beds) all arrived just before the main group.

Whilst everyone got parked up and waited for their nosh they helped themselves to some of Sue’s very popular muffins, apple cakes and my buns and biccies .. all sold in aid of the W&NAA (Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance)… after a while smells of burgers and onions began to waft across the car park… and soon they were all tucking in and supping up.

Pete (Oxford) did a brief sponsorship drive as he is doing 1000 miles in 24hours as part of the Numb Bum challenge with the Royal British Legion Riders (see their website for details) and raised a few more £’s for another great cause!

Jennies buns

Bowling Bikers

Laughter and concentration

time to head off to The Lilacs in Isham. Dan (Northants) led the ride there and the original group were joined by some of the North London branch who timed it just right! I had gone ahead to set up the HOC shop and the cake table whilst Sue (Northants) set up her table of Air Ambulance goodies.

Dibble was at the ready with the tongs at the BBQ (he looked resplendent in striped pinny, hat and leathers!), pub was open and beginning to fill up with locals and

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The sun continued to shine and it was then bowling presentations time! Highest Scorer was Dan, Greatest Effort with least result went to James, Winning Team was Fiona’s and team “We tried but failed” was Dan’s! All seemed happy with their prizes (mega bars of choccie and boxes of sweeties!) and Honda goody bags.

along to represent the W&NAA, Glen and Dan for leading the rideouts, the AMF Bowling Centre Wellingborough for giving such a great deal and ALL who turned up and supported the event. It was fantastic to see you all and apparently having a good time too! Hope the photos show just how much fun was had and that we can do it all again sometime - maybe next summer!!

Jennie

Arriving at The Lilacs

Chairman Chef

BBQ starving hoards

Concentration of constipation

James getting his lowest scorer prize

The day raised a fantastic £206.50 for the national air ambulance pot plus a further £30 for W&NAA from cake sales… not bad when you consider we were only asking 50p for 2!! Regalia sales were pretty good too!

Thanks MUST go to Ian (the landlord of The Lilacs, Isham) & Sarah (for cooking almost limitless supplies of chips), Dibble for being a superb chef, Sue for baking and coming

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It all started well, I met Bob and Colin at the BP garage and off we went to meet the others at Bracknell.

We arrived safely at Bracknell and Taz, Roger, Dave & Edith were already there, Bryan and Colleen were making their own way as was the other Dave.

Bob lead us off heading for the Travel Lodge at Ashford. All was going well until we got to the M3. Bob and Taz joined the M3 heading for the M25. Colin decided he would like to explore the roundabout, not sure if he thought Eurotunnel left from Southampton. When I saw Colin head off in the wrong direction I gave him a little toot on the 139dB twin Stebel magnums, a sound that normally causes a heart attack in car drivers and pulled over, Roger, Dave and Edith pulled up behind me. Colin eventually arrived and I offered to lead to the Travel Lodge.

Bob checked us in; he had booked under a false identity but had forgotten, so looked very surprised when the receptionist asked if he was Robert. After a small fight Roger, Taz and I won the right not to share a room with Bob and we quickly barricaded the door to stop anyone else getting in. What I would like to know is how I ended up with a paper thin mattress on the floor, while Roger hogged the double bed and Taz got the Sofa bed. All night all I could hear was Taz snoring on one side of me and Roger snoring on the other. Of course they claimed that I was snoring loudest but I don’t believe them.

The next morning as I started my bike, I noticed that the hazard lights came on, they turned off after I flicked the switch and I thought maybe someone had played with the switches overnight. The bike started and ran

absolutely fine and I thought no more of it.

We set off to the nearest garage and all topped up our tanks. When I pulled up to the pump and turned the ignition off I was curious as to why the engine was still running. I removed the key and still the engine carried on running! I turned off the kill switch and still the engine was running! The side stand switch still worked though and for the rest of the day I stopped the engine by leaving it in gear and putting the side stand down. When we regrouped after filling up there were cries of wonder, well laughter actually, as I demonstrated my amazing unstoppable engine.

Arriving at Eurotunnel’s extremely biker unfriendly automated check in, Bryan had the fun job of punching in all the numbers and getting the boarding cards, handing them out to us as we rode around him. Eurotunnel, in their wisdom, had put us on two trains. Always helpful Eurotunnel did not print our names or the time of the train on the cards! So we spent a happy 10 minutes matching up the booking reference with the boarding cards. Then onto border control they waved through. I think they were saying “Just get out of the country we don’t want you”. We were still booked onto 2 different trains but in true Reading HOC tradition we ignored that and just rode into the departure lanes. On the train Dave and Edith looked after us, distributing cookies and sweeties.

I lead off on our French adventure. The weather was reasonable, cloudy but dry and after a short stretch on the A16 we join the D901 just past Boulogne. It was an enjoyable road though rural France until swooping downhill on a right hand bend I spied a car

Reading do Millau Viaduct - A Bridge Too Far -

By Gavin and Bryan

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overtaking a lorry, ignoring the solid white line and much braking and horn sounding ensued. A few minutes later we arrived at La Paix Faite and I decided a coffee was in order and we stopped at the Cafe Du Moulin. Some tried their best to order in French but I’m afraid others decided that the universal language of shouting in English was the best option. Taz decided that this was the time to announce that his engine was a bit noisy and the combined technical might of HOC diagnosed “No bloody oil you numpty” despite his bragging that the bike was checked and ready Taz had not realised the no oil visible in the sight glass meant you should put some in. After half an hour we arrived at a supermarket, appropriately in a town called Berck.

I was going to call the RAC. There’s a Buffalo Grill about 100 metres away so I decide to get the bike over to the car park. Engine won’t turn over the batteries flat, I’ve had the hazard lights on for over 30 minutes and now can’t start it. So I start pushing, have you ever tried to push a bike with a flat tyre, just don’t do it I was knackered after 10 metres. So I flick the side stand down to have a rest. As the rear tyre is flat it appears that the bike will not stay upright with the side stand, I discover this as the bike falls over. Later inspection reveals, 1 smashed camera, a badly scratched and split fairing, big gouges in the rack arms and gouges on the clutch cover. Anyway Dave comes and gives me a hand to push the bike and we get it into the car park, at least we are in a safe place now.

Ok, I can call recovery. Get through to RAC recovery give my details and explain I have a puncture. Do you have a spare tyre was the response. AAAGGGHHH it’s a bike, OK I was a bit ratty by this point and it may not have been obvious on their system that I had taken out cover for a bike. I give my location, really easy this one as I’m right under where 2 major roads cross and in the car park of the Buffalo Grill. RAC can’t pin point it! Bob finds out we’re on the Avenue de Basingstoke, I think he’s taking the piss but he’s not. Finally I spot a hotel which the RAC can find. They will try to repair the puncture and if they can’t will take the bike to the nearest dealer. It’s now 9pm and there is still at least 50 miles to go to the B&B.

As promised, the recovery arrives about 30 minutes. The recovery guy speaks no English so I try and explain in my, limited, French. He partially inflates the tyre and we are both crawling around on the ground to try and find the puncture. Found it, he rams a plug in and I work out that he is asking what pressure to inflate the tyre to, his gauge is in KPA I know the pressure in PSI, bugger. I make an uneducated guess and he inflates the tyre. He tells me he needs to leave it for a few minutes to check it’s not losing pressure.

It was serviced before - honest!

Bob accompanied Taz into the store, to ensure he bought oil and not screen wash and Taz then proceeded to pour nearly 2 litres of oil over the car park, luckily enough actually went into the engine to bring the level up.

We carried on and just outside Alençon, at about 8pm, the bike started to feel a bit weird and I was sure I had a puncture. So there we were under a bridge, pissing down in the dark and a puncture to fix. We had a bottle of tyre weld and a plug kit. I take my best guess at where the puncture is and ream out the tyre and put a plug in, use the gas canister to inflate the tyre and all I can hear is hissing as all the air comes out again. I’ve just made a new hole in the tyre and plugged that, pratt! It’s now 8.30 still raining and I’ve had enough.

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I then demonstrate the battery is flat and he gets his booster out and starts the bike, asks me to turn the headlight off and I manage, I think, to explain you can’t turn it off. We leave the bike running and check the pressure and no drop, it’s all OK. Then he asks for payment. I manage to explain he needs to call the RAC and they sort out payment for him, they also check with me that I am OK and happy with the repair. The recovery guy was great as were the RAC. I can definitely recommend them for European cover.

We set off and take the Peage as the quickest route, Bob hasn’t been on one before and is stuck at the entry barrier. When we get to the toll it’s unmanned. Bob tries to put his ticket in the machine, but it’s damp. We eventually get the ticket into the machine and it can’t read it. Press the help button, person who answers speaks a little English but not much. She asks why the ticket won’t go in and I respond “Il pluie”, there is amusement in the control room. She asks where we have come from, we can’t remember, I finally read out the numbers on the peage ticket and after several attempts they understand me. Bob tries to put money in the machine and it won’t accept it, there’s a nice queue of traffic building up behind us, so I stuff my credit card in, Bob moves of and I run back to my bike and pull up to the machine and try to put my ticket in, but the control room shouts no they have already set the toll so I pay with the card again and ride up to Bob then run back to pay for Colin. As we go I can hear hysterical laughter over the loudspeaker.

We eventually arrive at the B&B at around midnight. Chris and Linda, our hosts at La Lune, have left the lights on in the garage and Colin and I rode straight in, as Taz has taken enough room for 6 bikes Bob can’t get his in but Chris provided him with a cover for the Pan. It took me a while to register that turning off the ignition had stopped the engine, the first time all day. Inside everyone was enjoying some very nice wine and hot food was quickly placed before us along with a seemingly endless supply of wine.

I still wanted to go on to Millau but didn’t trust a tyre with 2 temporary plugs in it. Once Chris came up with a list of tyre fitters I shot off to try and get a new tyre. The garage was due to close 12:00, I got there at 11:40 to find it shut! I phoned Bob, said that the rest of them should carry on without me. I then went off to try and find the other garages, I passed a Honda dealer but of course it was shut. After riding around Le Mans for over an hour I gave up and headed back to La Lune where Linda and Chris had kindly agreed I could spend the night if I couldn’t get anything sorted.

On Sunday rode back to Calais and caught the train back to England. I’m extremely disappointed that I didn’t get to Millau, but glad that Bob, Roger, Taz, Colin, Dave, Dave and Edith got there OK.

Now Gavin has gone I (Bryan) will continue the tale. Colleen and I stayed around the B&B for the next couple of days rebuilding confidence on the bikes after the challenging ride down. We visited a medieval village close by and managed a few more glasses of wine. We decided to stop in Rouen on the way back to Calais. A safe and enjoyable rain free ride was made, in fact the rain only started when we were waiting by the train terminal for the rest of the bunch to arrive. We would not have got so wet if we had known the rest of them arrived early and were shopping!

The rest of the guys had waited to see if Gavin could get his tyre sorted, when they knew La Lune Guesthouse, Le Mans

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there was no hope they set off, a bit late in the day for such a journey, but off they went spirits high.

The last 100 miles or so of the journey to the next hotel was on mountain roads. This should’ve been fun... but for the dark and the rain and the time of the day. Some of the country roads turned to gravel and few twitchy moments were had. Even with all these difficulties they all arrived at the Hotel in Thiezac. Allegedly the hotel staff spoke English, well that’s what the website said. The reality was a bunch of English bikers (some not able to speak English very well!), communicating with a French man… After a while Bob explained food was required, which was duly delivered.

required a lot of the time. At a service station Roger’s front wheel slipped away and he slid away from his bike, the bike itself pirouetted in road, luckily everyone else missed him. Bumped and bruised Roger managed to ride the remaining distance up to the B&B. When they got there his boot came off and the ankle swelled up. A wine or two passed the lips of everyone, a good debate on the merits of speed in the rain and other incidents on the journey helped release the tensions of the day.

Roger was left behind at the B&B in the morning as the rest of the troupe left for Calais and some shopping. We were all tired and were remembering to ourselves the highs and lows of the trip.

The next day Roger arrived home by plane and a trip to A&E showed up only bruising. His bike eventually arrived home and was not in as bad a state as he thought. The arrangements with the insurance and recovery were made possible by Chris and Linda at the B&B.

The B&B was superb, they could not do too much for us, on the first night they cooked for us 3 times, the last being at midnight! Each a full and delicious 3 course meal. They helped Roger, took him to the airport, translated in discussions with insurance etc, put up with people coming and going, booking in, booking out amazingly with a smile all the time.

As a group we all learned a lot about our own abilities and about or friendship. We are going to produce some notes of our learning which will be on our website these hopefully will help others avoid some of the pitfalls we fell into. We were all glad we went, some disappointed at not making the bridge, others amazed at how well they had done in the extreme weather conditions.

All in all another rich experience in the lives of the Reading Honda Owners Club members.

Millau Viaduct - nearly there

The next day was the trip to the bridge. Although the weather was not the best at least it remained dry. Reading made the bridge (well some of us did). It was a tiring day but a feeling of satisfaction was felt by one and all. A glass wine or two were swallowed in the evening over a nice meal and the journey home was started.

Back on the way up to La Lune and the rain came down again. It seemed heavier than ever. The guys have remarked that at times it felt as if they were riding on top of the water rather than on the road. All of those who made the bridge were riders with many years of experience, they needed all of them. The ride on the mountain roads was made without major incident, although hanging on was

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Good company, good roads and good weather are the hallmarks of any enjoyable ride out and while the first two are a result of planning and choice the latter is most definitely more of a lottery in the North East of England. But on Sunday 10th April our numbers came up with a glorious sunny and warm day for Northumbria’s first ride out of the season to St. Abbs on the coast on the Scottish border.14 bikes turned out for the ride which was organised and led by Roland to include some beautiful scenery and interesting rest points. We met, as usual, at 09:30 at the McDonald’s on the Moor Farm roundabout on the A19 ready for leaving at 10:00 prompt. A short blast up the A1 took us off into the more rural areas of Northumberland skirting the edge of the Northumberland National Park northwards through Wooler after which we broke off onto the ‘B’ roads and through the villages of Ford and Etal to our first stopping point, the Heatherslaw Mill. This is a 140 year old working water mill with a traditional bakery attached, but no time for us to sample the products as after a quick leg stretch and use of the facilities we were on our way to the next destination.The Chainbridge Honey Farm is nestled close to the Tweed just outside the

border village of Horncliffe in Northumberland. Apart from the honey farm there is an eclectic display of rural crafts, agricultural machinery, cars and motorbikes and on the day we arrived the local Rotary Club had organised a Classic Car rally. Unfortunately, this meant that space for parking 14 visiting motorcycles was a little difficult but we eventually managed to squeeze in so that we could make a brief visit. There wasn’t really time to browse the classic cars but most of us took the opportunity to get round the rest of the facilities and some of us even sampled (and bought) some of the delicious honey after watching the bees do their work. And if you have a need for large amounts of beeswax, this is definitely the place to do your shopping!So, on to our lunch stop and ultimate destination, the charming fishing village of St. Abbs. Once a thriving community of fishermen this is now a popular centre for scuba diving, although there are still working lobster boats operating out of the old harbour. We rode down to the harbour and parked up close to the tiny café, which we pretty much swamped and created a Sunday rush that I suspect had not been seen there for a little while. The unexpectedly fine weather had not yet produced a swarm of tourists so we could appreciate the quiet beauty of the place

and enjoy a walk along the harbour to see the clear water running between the rocks on the shore. After refreshments of tea, burgers and toasties we set off on the return leg.Roland had ensured that we enjoyed going home as much as we enjoyed the trip out. We were led along the Scottish border through some fantastic scenery and roads down to the border town of Jedburgh where we stopped to refuel – the bikes with petrol and ourselves with ice cream. The afternoon had developed into one of those glorious warm spring days that made it feel more like July than April so the ice cream certainly wasn’t out of place. We were on the final leg now, but news reached us that the A68 south of the town (our expected route) was closed due to road works so we had to take an unexpected diversion through some narrow, gravelly and pot-holed roads before picking up the route that would take us past the Kielder Forest through the Northumberland National Park and back home.Everyone agreed that this was one of the best rides out that we had had for some time. Maybe it was because it was our first of the season, maybe it was the sunshine, and maybe it was the thought that went into planning the interesting roads and destinations. Whatever it was, it has set the bar for 2011 so roll on Summer!

Northumbria Branch Rideout to St. Abbs By Jim Macura

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It goes without saying that everyone knows who Joey Dunlop was, but maybe some of you haven’t heard about the work of the Foundation and when I say work - I mean hard work. Immediately after Joey’s death The Joey Dunlop Fund was set up on the Isle of Man. With the money raised a bronze statue was made and placed at the bungalow on the TT course.

A group of ardent fans then approached Joey’s widow Linda to seek her agreement to raise funds to construct a facility that would benefit the community, only to discover that it had been a wish of Joey’s. Initially the funds were for a lift to be installed at the TT Grandstand for disabled access, then to provide much needed accommodation for the physically challenged and their families.

After much hard work and fundraising and a suitable site being finally found Braddan Bridge House was opened for business this year, with an Open Day on Mad Sunday, attended by Linda Dunlop and the likes of John McGuinness.

The house provides three separate self-contained, self-catering apartments, fully fitted with adjustable height furniture, beds and kitchens. Many local Companies and craftsmen have given their time, money and equipment to make this possible.

These apartments are available to book for anyone with a disability, plus their family, so if you or anyone you know would benefit from the use of such a fantastic facility then either e-mail [email protected] or ring 01624 677606 during the evening.

More information about the foundation can be found at

www.joeydunlopfoundation.comBraddan Bridge House

JOEY DUNLOP FOUNDATION

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Being lucky enough to be invited to the Joey Dunlop Foundation Dinner, I decided that I would force myself to meet some of the invited guests and have my picture taken – obviously against my will as standing next to famous racers and smiling was jolly hard work! Oh well, all in the call of duty and an article for Golden Wing.

Just before we were seated to start our meal, I collared, sorry politely requested a photograph with Klaus Klaffenbock, the double TT Sidecar winner and FIM World Sidecar Champion, who being such a gentleman could not refuse. Also at the meal was a 7 times FIM Sidecar Champion, Rolf Biland, who along with Klaffi and Dan Sayle entertained us with a few stories.

Joey Dunlop Foundation Dinner

We then had some fun with a “Night at the Races” with Roy Moore, who commentates from “The Randy Hairpin” as he famously said, where we had to bet on six riders and see who crossed the line first, as often happens on the Isle of Man, only two races were achieved, one on the Bilown Circuit and one on the TT before we had a red flag situation – on this occasion we had run out of time.

Finally, to round off the evening we had a rendition of two famous George Formby songs, one being “Standing on the Corner” and if you don’t know the other then shame on you, on the old ukelele. Both songs were received with rapturous applause and just within the midnight deadline for a music licence.

Kim with Joey Dunlop Charity

organisers

So there you have it, as you can see I really had to put myself out to enjoy this evening, but if a jobs worth doing, its worth doing well. The Joey Dunlop Foundation put on a wonderful meal and entertainment which was thoroughly enjoyed by all, so a big thanks to them and a big thanks to everyone who reads this and thinks that next time they are in the Isle of Man, or at a race meeting in the UK and they see the Joey Dunlop Foundation Stand, they will make sure they buy a ticket for the raffle.

Kim

Kim with Klaus Klaffenbock

During the evening the draw was made for the Honda CBR600RR, which I hope many of you purchased tickets for whilst visiting the island during the TT or Manx and this year for the first time in 9 years it was won by an island resident. Also a raffle and numerous auctions were held, with some fabulous prizes on offer.

Other guests who entertained us during the evening, ably interviewed by Manx Radio DJ Tim Glover, were Manx GP Senior winner, Si Fulton, Gavin Hunt who is recovering from his broken ankle, newly appointed MotoGP racer Cal Crutchlow, now an island resident, World Enduro Champion David Knight and last but not least Ryan Farquar. Our luck was in, our table and seats were right next to where all these guests were being interviewed, up close and personal!

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Thursday 21st Saw Alan K & Alan D setting off in the afternoon to meet Graham south of London to get the 7.50 channel tunnel. After much filtering and Alan D knocking someone’s mirror off we arrived just in the knick of time. Once on the other side, we headed down the coast to Boulogne to stay the night in an ETAP. Next morning we had breakfast, mounted up and set off towards Rouen where after stopping to look at the map Alan D’s Blackbird wouldn’t start. Graham came up with a cunning plan and took the battery off his Blackbird and put it on Alan D’s and it fired up first time. The battery off Alan D’s went onto Graham’s and we bump started it and all set off towards Chartres and Orleans. We had to change batteries over twice more and then decided to stop Friday night in a little hotel south of Orleans where Graham decided to pull the shower curtain down around Alan K.

Oradour Sur Glane

Saturday saw another beautiful day and after a typical French Breakfast (not a lot) the tres amigos headed south to Limoges where we stopped to see Oradour Sur Glane (the Martyr village) where the Waffen SS killed the whole village, men, women and children. This was an eerie place to visit with a natural air of respect for the past inhabitants. Back on the bikes we headed 40kms further south to Alan

K’s friends where we settled into our room for the next three nights.

Sunday morning we set off on a short round trip, taking in St Yriex la Perche, Segur Le Chateaux, Pompadour and ending up at Bussier Galant which has a big lake with sandy beach, mega zip line across the lake and a 4 stage assault course (like GO APE). We went to pay for a go on the zip line and Graham managed to get out of it by putting on enough pounds to be above the 210Kg weight limit. The 2 Alans did the zip line and we all set off to do the assault course which started off gently and got progressively harder with a Green run, Blue run, Red run and finally a Black run - just like skiing.

Graham at Busier Galant

Graham had to give up after the Green and Blue due to gravity taking its toll, but the 2 Alans soldiered on and wished they hadn’t by the time they reached the end. All this activity worked up and appetite so we all went to the Irish Bar on the N21 just north of Thiviers where we enjoyed a couple of pints, a plate full of Nachos covered in cheese and salsa and Battered Calamares (squid) followed by a hearty Steak and Guiness pie - the perfect end to the day.

A Little Trip to France21st April - 2nd May

by Alan Kyle

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Monday we had a day off from biking and got in the car with Alan K’s friends Pete and Andrea to go to St Jean de Cole a picturesque village and Brantome which is a beautiful town surrounded by waterways (little Venice). It had been planned for the three of us to canoe around the town but Pete decided to join us which he regretted after Alan K and Graham ended up in the river and he got soaked, including his shoes, shorts, shirt, phone and wallet. After Pete had dried out enough to drive we headed back so he could get changed before going out to an expensive over rated Chateaux Mavalais restaurant which was very disappointing (won’t be going back).

Posing at bottom of weir in Brantome

Tuesday Pete and Andrea headed off early to catch a plane from Limoges back to the UK, leaving us to make the place secure before locking up, changing batteries over yet again and heading south to MOTO24 the Honda dealers at Perigeaux where a technician said the voltage regulator/rectifier had gone on Alan D’s bike so he ordered one to arrive on Thursday at a staggering cost of 320 Euro’s. changing batteries over yet again we headed off to Les Eyzies where we filled up with fuel had lunch and then looked for and set up camp at La Riviere (a riverside campsite with all amenities including excellent toilet and shower blocks, swimming pool, bar and restaurant with al fresco dining).

On Wednesday it was Alan K’s omelettes for breakfast and after sorting out batteries yet again we set off to Beynac where Alan D

and Graham went on a Barge trip down the Dordogne to see four Chateaus from the river while Alan K chilled and bought some lunch. Once landed again the three of us headed up the twisting streets of this Medieval town towards the Chateaux on the top where the view was simply breathtaking. We had lunch at the top before getting back down to the bikes and heading off again, taking in La Rocque Gageac on the way to Domme, another fortified hilltop village with views over even more of the beautiful Dordogne.

On Thursday there were more omelettes, then Alan K dashed back to MOTO24 to collect the NEW regulator for Alan D’s Blackbird which he then fitted and it started first time. In the afternoon we decided to go canoeing again and went to the riverside hire point. We asked for a 3-4 man canoe for the 3 of us but the little French man took one look at Graham and gestured that it might be too much so he would do a 2 man canoe for the 2 Alans and another 2 man to keep Graham afloat. Boats sorted they were loaded up and he took us 13kms upstream before putting us in the water and waving us off. We had a great afternoon, all behaving ourselves with no sinkings are soakings UNTILL we arrived back and Alan D was holding Graham’s canoe for him to get out when he lost his balance and fell backwards out of sight, completely submerged in the river, money, camera - the lot.

After going back to the camp for a cuppa we went to the pool and relaxed on the sunbeds. Alan K was in and out of the pool but Graham wasn’t having any of it - too cold he said (wimp) he kept just dipping his toe in and walking around the perimeter until Alan K saw his credit cards on his sunbed and threw them in the pool. After much Scottish swearing and saying I can’t believe you did that, he had to get them before they went down the filter. All showered, we went out for another nice meal in the town washed down by a couple of beers.

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Friday 29th (Royal wedding day) We had a wedding breakfast of Alan K’s omelettes with fresh bread and croissants & coffee. After ablusions we mounted the bikes and headed further south for Rocamadour (a must see for Alan K). More fantastic roads saw us nearly there when disaster struck and Alan D’s Blackbird failed again with the new regulator/rectifier fitted so it wasn’t that which was causing the problem. We contacted Carole Nash and arranged to have the bike picked up from the campsite as we could not describe where we were exactly when it broke down. After changing the batteries over yet again it was back to the campsite where we awaited the collection of the bike by trailer. It was taken to MOTO24 at Perigeaux and they said they would be in touch with the diagnosis, bearing in mind we were due to head back on Saturday. The rest of the day was spent by the pool and after we played Petanque whilst enjoying a beer or two before going into town for our last supper in Les Eyzies.

La Riviere in Les Eyzies

An early start was ordered for Saturday by Alan K who got up and did scrambled eggs and ham for a change from the usual before starting to pack. We had to load all the camping gear onto two bikes instead of three as Alan D’s was in Perigeaux and we still hadn’t heard from them or Carole Nash’s breakdown provider ‘The AA’. Nearly ready and Alan K couldn’t resist a last minute dip in the pool before leaving.

Fully Loaded

We headed off to MOTO24 where we were told it was the alternator, not the regulator that they had said before! They said it would cost over €1000 to sort out so we left them with the forwarding address of Alan D’s home and the AA would repatriate it. After leaving Perigeaux, the long trek home started with a blast up the N21 to the Irish Bar where we stopped to say bye to the owners after taking in refreshments. Back in the saddle and we headed north again, stopping at Chartres for petrol and photos of the enormous cathedral. Next stop was Orleans where we got another triple room in an ETAP with Alan D sharing with Graham and Alan K in the bunk (too much information Alan). We had a hearty meal in a Buffalo Grill which should have been followed by a Banana Split but they had none! We then went back to get a much earned sleep.

Sunday saw us heading North again back to Calais and we used our first Peage for the last stretch at a cost of €8.5. The night was spent at the F1 hotel in Coquelles near the Channel Tunnel and after checking in we went into Calais where Alan K pulled up and got off his bike before putting the side stand down DOH! He wont do that again in a hurry.

An early start on Monday, pack the bikes, breakfast and then 9.50 tunnel back to Blighty! Once back it was time to concentrate on the left hand side of the road whilst battling strong crosswinds on the M20, M25 and M1. Only stopping for fuel, coffee and a pee, we were back home in time for lunch.

Great trip and Alan K has the excuse to go back as he didn’t get to see Rocamadour.

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www.honda.co.ukHonda Contact Centre: 0845 200 8000

An unrivalled attention to detail and depth of

finish delivers a masterpiece of engineering art.

VFR1200F. The ultimate fusion of beauty and function.

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www.honda.co.ukHonda Contact Centre: 0845 200 8000

An unrivalled attention to detail and depth of

finish delivers a masterpiece of engineering art.

VFR1200F. The ultimate fusion of beauty and function.

138xx HUK HondaOwnersClub_A5Ads_x4.indd 5 19/5/10 11:40:05

Just a quick note to say what a great time some of the Bristol Branch had when we met up with some friends in Northwich for this years Thundersprint. 2 bikes with pillions went up on the Friday evening and stayed with Tim, (HOC member in the north) northwich. We all went into the town on Friday night for a meal and just 1 or 6 drinks. Saturday morning we attended the display , a few stalls and a few dealer stands, we met the Bennetts Girls and received various freebees.

The real show starts Sunday and what a great show, lots of stalls with really good deals, great kit for sale a good selection of dealer stands all with a good variety of bikes. then what a great display after the cavalcade a great timed race circuit around a carpark starring Cal Crutchlow, Steve Parish, Scott Redding and Danny Webb and loads of good enthusiastic guys with all sorts of bikes.. and what a great display they put on including what appeared to be a burn-out competition between Scott & Danny. Strangely though some of the best viewing was watching the sidecar outfits sliding around the course.

Great weekend. Anyone who hasn’t been, please go next year, one of the friendliest shows yet and FREE.

At the end of Sunday we packed up and made our way to Tescos to fuel up for the return trip (2001 vfr800 only 12 litres of fuel 165miles RESULT).

Andy and Tracey

Bristol Branch visit NorthwichThe Thundersprint what a great show well staged well attended and well and truly enjoyed. With classics and vintage plus plenty of general bikes to look at it was a job to know were to look first. We spent the Saturday looking round some of the trade stalls and bike show, plus Tim Palin are host for the weekend and local, shared some

of the sites and history of Northwich which is worth a trip just to look at on it’s own. Then Sunday we walked from Tim’s to again look round the stalls and bikes on display which had moved from there locations yesterday to be nearer the race track (M&S car park) and had grown in size and number. When it was time for the cavalcade,

we got into a position to get a great view as Cal Crutchlow Steve Parish , Scot Redding, Danny Webb six times word champion Jim Redman and not forgetting Sammy Miller on his RC181 Honda lead countless other bikes up

and down the main roads headed by police out riders. Then in the afternoon the racing around the perimeter of M&S car park began, and it was obvious for the timed lap Steve Parish put in, that they were taking it seriously. And what a show the side car combinations put on, as they side slid round the 90 degree bends. Then after the times had been checked and winners announced out came the GP stars for doughnuts and burn-outs what a great bunch to give up time in thier world GP calendar to entertain us fans and all for free.

Never heard of it or couldn’t be bothered, then may l suggest you put it down on your calendar for next year and enjoy So I say well done Northwich and all involved for a great weekend and thank you.

John and Maxine

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HOC members are featured in RiDE

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Thanks to Simon Toyne, Production Editor of RiDE

for allowing us to reproduce these pages

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Christmas D inner D ancePut yourself

in the Picture

The all-new Crossrunner has received rave reviews from the motorcycle media but we want to know what YOU think. So take a test ride, put it through its paces and let us know your thoughts. And because we value your opinion we’ll reward you for your evaluation with gift vouchers to the value of £15.Visit www.honda.co.uk for your evaluation form and to book your test ride. Or call 0845 200 8000 for details.

1. The offer is open to UK residents aged 18 years or over with a valid UK motorcycle licence except employees of the Promoter or their agents and members of their immediate families. 2. No purchase necessary. 3.In order to qualify for the £15 John Lewis or Marks & Spencer gift vouchers, eligible applicants must test ride a Honda Crossrunner no later than 30.06.2011, complete the official evaluation form (available to download from www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles), have it stamped by the dealer offering the test ride and then post it to: Honda Crossrunner £15 Voucher Offer, FREEPOST WA1521, Warrington, Cheshire, WA4 6BR to be received no later than 14.07.2011. 4. Only one application per person. 5. Fraudulent, illegible or incorrectly completed applications will be disqualified. 6. No responsibility can be accepted for applications lost, damaged or delayed in the post. Proof of postage is not accepted as proof of receipt. 7. The Promoter reserves the right to offer an alternative gift of equal or greater value in the unlikely event that the £15 John Lewis or Marks & Spencer gift vouchers become unavailable. 8. No cash alternative will be offered. 9. Each £15 John Lewis or Marks & Spencer gift voucher will be sent within 14 days of valid application. 10. All test rides are subject to arrangement with participating Honda Dealers. 11. Promoter: Honda (UK) Motorcycles, 470 London Road, Slough, Berkshire SL3 8QY. Honda (UK) is a division of Honda Motor Europe. Registered in England and Wales No 857969. Please do not write to this address.

For your chance to win visit your Honda dealer or go to www.honda.co.uk/win

Plus+to celeBrAte the ArriVAl of the neW crossrunner, We’re GiVinG one AWAy!

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The event will be at the prestigious Hoburne Bashley Holiday Centre where the facilities include Snooker, Pool, Darts, Table Tennis, Golf, and Crazy Golf, Swimming Pool, Steam Room and Sauna. Giant Jenga, Giant Connect 4, a WII Console and Games all of which are included… so if the weather’s not good, don’t worry! And Sammy Miller’s Motorbike Museum is just down the road.

ItineraryFriday night welcome and supper

choose from Curry & Rice, Chilli & Rice, Fish & Chips, Vegetable or meat Lasagne with Chips or Salad

Saturday am Breakfast in the restaurantSaturday night welcome Bucks Fizz or

½ pint of real ale 3 course Christmas Dinner Disco dancing till late!Sunday am Breakfast in the restaurant

All in price £55 per personAnyone living locally wanting to come along - Dinner Dance £32, Friday night £7.50 per person

To book, or for further information, please contact Erica on 07799 492235 or e-mail [email protected]

Christmas D inner D ance

16th/17th/18th December 2011Hoburne Bashley, Sway Road, New Milton. Hampshire BH25 5QS

AccommodationPlatinum Caravans

6 berth, 3 bed - £140.004 berth, 2 Bed - £120.00

Gold Caravans6 berth, 3 bed - £120.004 berth, 2 Bed - £100.00

Silver Caravans6 berth, 3 bed - £100.00

You would need to supply your own towels etc in all categories.To bring your own caravans/caravanettes

£16.75 a night for a Superior Pitch£18.55 a night for a Premier Pitch

Honda Owners Club 50th Anniversary

Put yourselfin the Picture

The all-new Crossrunner has received rave reviews from the motorcycle media but we want to know what YOU think. So take a test ride, put it through its paces and let us know your thoughts. And because we value your opinion we’ll reward you for your evaluation with gift vouchers to the value of £15.Visit www.honda.co.uk for your evaluation form and to book your test ride. Or call 0845 200 8000 for details.

1. The offer is open to UK residents aged 18 years or over with a valid UK motorcycle licence except employees of the Promoter or their agents and members of their immediate families. 2. No purchase necessary. 3.In order to qualify for the £15 John Lewis or Marks & Spencer gift vouchers, eligible applicants must test ride a Honda Crossrunner no later than 30.06.2011, complete the official evaluation form (available to download from www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles), have it stamped by the dealer offering the test ride and then post it to: Honda Crossrunner £15 Voucher Offer, FREEPOST WA1521, Warrington, Cheshire, WA4 6BR to be received no later than 14.07.2011. 4. Only one application per person. 5. Fraudulent, illegible or incorrectly completed applications will be disqualified. 6. No responsibility can be accepted for applications lost, damaged or delayed in the post. Proof of postage is not accepted as proof of receipt. 7. The Promoter reserves the right to offer an alternative gift of equal or greater value in the unlikely event that the £15 John Lewis or Marks & Spencer gift vouchers become unavailable. 8. No cash alternative will be offered. 9. Each £15 John Lewis or Marks & Spencer gift voucher will be sent within 14 days of valid application. 10. All test rides are subject to arrangement with participating Honda Dealers. 11. Promoter: Honda (UK) Motorcycles, 470 London Road, Slough, Berkshire SL3 8QY. Honda (UK) is a division of Honda Motor Europe. Registered in England and Wales No 857969. Please do not write to this address.

For your chance to win visit your Honda dealer or go to www.honda.co.uk/win

Plus+to celeBrAte the ArriVAl of the neW crossrunner, We’re GiVinG one AWAy!

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Chairmans Challenge

BedfordshireSecretary: Glen Pringle - 07702 233 524

Well, dear me Mr Stritchy I’ve just realised waiting till Sunday evening after the Ace Run isn’t going to cut the mustard. So here is my little report for the summer issue.

This weekend we have a double whammy, I’m leading the run to the Ace and Colin is running a weekend trip to Cheddar. Over the spring we have started to get the bikes out again, with trips I lead to the Windsor Leisure Show (a disappointment - more expensive and not as good as last year), Bourton on the Water - a pleasant ride out even if I did get lost trying to rush home to visit a hospitalised son and a wonderful day out at the Prescott Hill Bike Festival (in the diary for next year for sure).

Over the next few months we have had a good go at filling our diary with 12 runouts in June and July (thanks to a large number of our members volunteering to lead a varied number of rides all of which can be found on our website). I am especially looking forward to Kevin’s run to Tintern Abbey on 12th of June (I loved the look of the place on a run past at last year’s National Rally). Jennie’s 50th Anniversary Barbecue and Bowling event and the Solent Rally. Our Rally takes place at the end of May and I’m looking forward to meeting all the regulars.

Paul at Bourton

Bourton on the Water

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Again I am going to try and get my Kawasaki into the Honda Day at the Ace with the aid of raw nerve and a few Honda stickers from Jennie via Glyn - next year I might even take my Honda! Apologies are due I’m afraid, I did mean to buy Honda again but lack of fuel capacity on the VFR1200 and VT750 meant I bought a ZZR and W from Kawasaki instead, please Mr Honda produce a sports tourer that can do 250 miles to a tank and an everyday twin with a bigger than 2 gallon tank! I shall most probably going to get a 250 or 125 Honda but not til later in the year.

Keep the shiny side up and hope to see you all again soon.

Glen

Windsor Leisure Show

Shuttleworth

Prescott Hill Bike Festival

Maxing Out

Alison and W

John Peter Joe & John

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BristolBranch Contact: Pete Casling - 01454 416417

Hi All,

that’s the last time I mentioned that my bike stays off the road in Winter unless we have an unusually mild spell. As a result, after finishing the several jobs I wanted to do on it, my bike came out of hibernation early this year. OK, it was early March, but still technically Winter. Hopefully if you’re like me, you’ve been clocking up the miles to make up for any time off the bike. If not, why not?

Since the last Golden Wing, Bristol Branch has carried on pretty much as before. We’ve had our usual monthly meetings, with most of the regular crowd turning up as usual, mainly just for a chin-wag. I’ve had a few enthusiastic-sounding email enquiries about the Branch and it’s activities.

Due to our outstanding and unexpected success at skittles way back early last year, it was Bristol’s turn to host the return match, with the winners getting the much-coveted ‘holed piston’ trophy. This time the match was just between Bristol and Wiltshire Branches, it being a little far for Oxford members to come really, just so they could lose at skittles!

JJ knew a pub local to him with a skittle alley (and there don’t seem to be all that many around these days), so it was duly booked, along with a buffet. On the night, eighteen members arrived and conveniently, there were nine from each side. I had previously suggested we have a raffle with a motorcycling theme, in aid of this year’s HOC national charity, Air Ambulances. Various suitable ‘motorcycling’ prizes were donated, but Ian Hammond, your contributions really were the booby prizes! We raised £28 towards the charity - every little helps... anyway, this time the alley was over twice as long as the one at last years match (that was short) and although we all tried as hard as we could to miss the skittles, many of us on both sides managed to knock some of them over. The young ‘putter-upper’ we recruited was so good at her job, she nearly crippled one or two of the skittlers when returning the balls! Hopefully the wounds have healed by now. Would you believe, the three rounds of skittles ended in a dead heat? So, after another deciding round, Bristol succeeded in losing, leaving Wiltshire to take home the trophy. Well done guys and we’ll see you next year.

Our first ride out of the year, in late March, was scheduled to be to the Thames Valley, but being the day after our skittles match, we decided to shorten it. Andy & Tracey, Alan and I rode over to George White’s in Swindon

The skittlers

Handing over the celebrated ‘Holed Piston’ trophy to Ian Hammond.jpg

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to see what was new or on offer. We went the scenic route and yes Andy, I know I took a wrong turning in Swindon. But I didn’t get us lost, did I? (We remember Maesteg, ‘Tom Tom’!) We spent quite a long time having a good look round all the new bikes (some of them weren’t even Hondas!), scoffing bacon rolls and coffee and on this rare occasion I even spent some money in the shop! After that we rode across to Lechlade, where we crossed the Thames, so it was nearly the ‘Thames Valley’. We returned via Burford and Bibury to complete a pleasant first ride out of the season.

Billy branded it the ‘Devil’s Bike’, but almost everyone else seemed to disagree. The new CBR600F was also a superb bike and I also succeeded in wringing the highest speed of the day out of the CBF250. “Surely officer, this 250 single can’t go that fast!” (I’m not saying what the speedo showed!) Sash also had some great fun, confirmed by all his smiles and he really likes the quick ‘uns! Best of all though, were Erica’s cakes. They were everyone’s favourites! Thanks Erica!

Sash with the ‘Devil’s Bike’

Elaine giving her customary greeting!

Ride of Respect

I like it! Erica looks on...

Our great friend Erica invited Bristol members along to Oxford’s test ride day at Blade Honda in Abingdon. After last year, it was a shame that only two of us (Sash and me) were available to go there for a fantastic day out trying out various new Hondas. I wanted to see what the VFR1200FD was like and it was very interesting to ride, with really smooth gearchanges, nicer than the manual and would like to have tried it for a couple of hours to really get the feel of it. Our friend

The following day was another early start, for the Ride of Respect through Wootton Bassett on Mothers Day. This is in aid of the Afghan Heroes charity. Sash and Elaine, Sash’s son Ashley (on his

sweet little Yammy YBR125, bless) and I had booked on one of the earlier timed slots for the ride. We actually went on the first one out, at just after 9am. Perhaps because it was still early in the day, we didn’t get to see nearly as many bikes gathering in their thousands like last year on the runway at Hullavington and we didn’t have to wait the three hours like last year! There was quite a good public turn out en route to wave, cheer and clap as the bikes passed through, though the atmosphere

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in the town itself wasn’t quite as lively as last year, maybe due to the early time, but at least we missed the heavy showers of later in the day! After Wootton Bassett High Street, we returned home via Malmesbury with a coffee stop on the way. Alan volunteered his services as a marshal, spending the whole day pointing this way and that way at Hullavington, but he said he enjoyed himself, doing his bit for charidee...

On the evening of our May meeting I thought I’d better show willing and actually turn up on my bike for once. I knew that if I didn’t, I’d definitely get some stick from the others. I couldn’t believe that after the warm day we’d had, I was the only one to do so! There were several feeble excuses!

Some of the Bristol members went to the Thundersprint in Northwich the following weekend and hopefully you can read a report of their weekend away elsewhere in this issue. This event happened to be the same weekend as our proposed run to North Devon, but as the weather was rather patchy and with rain forecast in Devon, those who didn’t go to the Thundersprint decided to stay at home in the dry. So, much as you’d expect, it didn’t rain. Well, not at home anyway.

In June many of the Bristol members are off to Spain for a biking holiday. By the time you get to read this, they’ll probably be back and there could well be something here about it next time.

Well, that’s all there is to report for now, as Stritchy insisted our homework couldn’t be sent in any later than May 20th for inclusion in this edition.

See you next time and ride safe,

Pete

Lunch at Clee Hill

Stopping for a leg stretch

Two weeks later we had our next Branch ride, to the Midlands. Well, not quite, it ended up being a ride around the countryside to the west of the Midlands. After meeting for an early breakfast start, we meandered northwards to Shropshire. Much of the route I’d simply chosen off a map, not knowing the roads and so a lot of it was new territory for us. We stopped for a break at a popular little café at Clee Hill, where there’s usually a terrific view looking to the south. Today it was a little hazy, but it was pleasant enough just sitting outside in the sunshine for a while. We eventually went as far north as Much Wenlock, then it was another tea stop later in Craven Arms. Southwards to Hereford, the Wye Valley and, for once, we were not too late home from the day’s ride.

Those of us who hadn’t gone away for the Easter weekend break tried to arrange going out for a ride or two together, but somehow nothing quite worked out, so we didn’t, which was a shame as the weather was so nice.

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CamBridgeSecretary: Kim Woodruff - 01353 740883

Hello Everyone

We joined our friends at Norfolk Branch for day at their local dealer - Lings at Harleston - on Easter Saturday. The weather was gorgeous, rumours of 26 degrees! They made us very welcome with test rides, BBQ lunch and a ride to Southwold for ice cream. We ended the day with a meal at their local meeting point. Thank you very much Norfolk for inviting us and for a brilliant day.

Easter Monday saw Jim, Anita, Paul and I have a meander round the countryside to Eyebrooke Reservoir and then onto a lovely pub for lunch again basked in glorious sunshine.

Our Tuesday night ride outs continue to be well supported. Paul and I led the April ride out and new member Greg Benton led the

May ride out. Both rides had a good following of bikes and the usual meal after was a perfect round off to the evenings.

We have a full diary of events coming up including Boughton House on the 7th August and the National Rally in September. It is our intention to visit the Ace Café on the 22nd May so we should have seen some of you there.

Well there isn’t much left to say except WELL DONE EVERYONE FOR ALL YOUR HELP WITH THE BMF - we all work well together but then again it isn’t work when we enjoy spending time with each other - the miles may separate us, but the HOC keeps us together.

Ride safe - see you soon

Lots of love

Kim x

BLADES Motorcycles of Great Staughton in Cambridgeshire, has come to the rescue of its villagers by becoming its post office and grocery store combined.

Already a well known meeting place for motorcyclists in the East Midlands & Anglia region, it not only buys & sells secondhand motorcycles, clothing and equipment but offers great food and coffee/tea

from their burger bar.Its owner Steve Hay stated

“Most of the time bikers, whether they’re classic or superbike owners, just want a cup of tea or coffee and a burger or a chat with other similarly minded riders and with our coffee stall and seating area open from dawn to dusk they can do that at any time during the week. But we have to consider our villagers as well.”

The post office in Great Staughton closed last year and there have been no shops in the village for some time.

“From June we will run both the post office and village shop.” says Steve “Where else can you buy a postal order, a pound of

potatoes and a set of leathers in the same place?”

Riders are always welcome here and with all this nice weather our coffee stall is kept busy from dawn to dusk, particularly at weekends”.

If you are at a loose end and fancy a visit to Blades Motorcycles, they can be found on the B645 near St Neots and squeezed in between the A1/A6 and A14 main roads at Brook Farm, The Highway, Great Staughton in Cambridgeshire PE19 5DA. Their telephone number is 01480 860926. They also offer HOC members a discount!

MOTORCYCLE SHOP RESCUES VILLAGERS

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devonOrganiser: Steve Letheren - 01392 431982 or 07712 160365

Hi all, hope you are well and bikes out on the road, in Devon we started our rideouts in March with a sunny Sunday which was freezing, our intentions ended half way into our journey up to Weymouth when we had to find somewhere to stop and warm up, a café in Dorchester was great for a breakfast and a cup of tea, I remember it being at the back of car park near a castle if that helps, the journey back was brisk to try and warm up, the sun came out but not for long.

The second ride was up to Bude via Okehampton, Halwill Jcn and Holsworthy, we then went back up the coast on the A39 to Barnstaple and the A377 back to Crediton and Exeter, we had a bit of trouble when a rider did not keep a look in his mirrors for the rider behind and we lost him, we must make sure we can see the rider behind or slow down to see him, by the time we went he had taken another route and made it home safe and I did worry until I found out he was safe, we must look out for each other.

The next one was also in April when we went up to Riders of Bridgewater and V&J Honda it was nice and warm and sunny and a ride over to Minehead through the countryside was great and then back to Exeter.

The first Bank Holiday in May some caravans were booked at Trelawne Manor for our Social Weekend, we got down in time to watch the wedding of Wills and Kate, nice weather and visits to the local area and bars.

We have another weekend in October 7Th to 10th for £95 you can get a caravan at Widemouth Bay in Cornwall, 10 caravans booked already see ad opposite.

Three of us are coming up to the National in September and sharing a caravan with Richard from the Yorkshire Branch (thanks for that, it saved us tenting) hopefully the weather will be good for the ride.

We are still waiting to hear from Bike shows Europe about the South West Bike show in August and if we do we will put on a stand again.

What I am looking for in the Devon Branch area is a biker/member of the HOC who can get out weekends and organise some rideouts, I am because of family and other commitments busy a lot of the year, I will try and get out when I can but it is difficult for me, by the end of the year I would like to think that someone else could run the Branch and start maybe a new era for the Devon Branch, I have taken it as far as I can and cannot put enough time to it now, so anyone out there with more time than I have, please give me a call.

Paignton bike nights are starting soon so look forward to seeing some of you maybe down there. Take care to you all and tight handlebars

Cheers,

Steve

Widemouth Bay

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Social Weekend Booking Form WIDEMOUTH BAY HOLIDAY PARK POUNDSTOCK, NEAR BUDE CORNWALL EX32 ODF 7TH OCT to 10TH OCT 2011 NAME_________________________________________ ADDRESS______________________________________ _______________________________________________ TEL___________________________________________ BRANCH_______________________________________ PRICE: 2 BED GOLD CARAVAN £95 3 BED SILVER CARAVAN £95 3 BED GOLD CARAVAN £105 THIS PRICE WILL BE HELD UNTIL 31ST AUG 2011 AFTER THIS TEL, DEBBIE ON; 01271 855004 TO BOOK Please make cheques payable in full to (John Fowler Holidays) or you can pay over the phone Send c/o Debbie , John Fowler Holidays, Marlborough Road, Ilfracombe, Devon EX348P We look forward to meeting you

Social Weekend Booking Form WIDEMOUTH BAY HOLIDAY PARK POUNDSTOCK, NEAR BUDE CORNWALL EX32 ODF 7TH OCT to 10TH OCT 2011 NAME_________________________________________ ADDRESS______________________________________ _______________________________________________ TEL___________________________________________ BRANCH_______________________________________ PRICE: 2 BED GOLD CARAVAN £95 3 BED SILVER CARAVAN £95 3 BED GOLD CARAVAN £105 THIS PRICE WILL BE HELD UNTIL 31ST AUG 2011 AFTER THIS TEL, DEBBIE ON; 01271 855004 TO BOOK Please make cheques payable in full to (John Fowler Holidays) or you can pay over the phone Send c/o Debbie , John Fowler Holidays, Marlborough Road, Ilfracombe, Devon EX348P We look forward to meeting you

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easternSecretary: John Hewson - 01469 560306

We had our Christmas party at Damon’s restaurant in Lincoln on 16th December. Our numbers were fortunately bolstered by W.I.M.A. members.

We started off the 2011 biking year with our now traditional visit to the Spalding Motorcycle Show on the 16th January. The show was well supported by stands put on by local clubs. Martin was lucky enough to find a motorcycle jacket, at half price, to add to his extensive collection.

We have made it to one sand race at Mablethorpe this year. The weather was very bright and sunny and very icy on the roads. As the back end of my car stepped out on one bend I was quite pleased I was not on my bike.

Lorrie, Martin and I went down to the Newark auto-jumble on Sunday 6th February. We were disappointed at the lack of outside

October last year, the longest period of not riding since I returned to biking in May 2007.

Unfortunately the winter months have seen a very poor turnout at branch meetings. Hopefully, now the weather is improving we will see a larger attendance.

Remember, the Eastern Branch meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month at the Black Bull in Brigg.

The Eastern Branch covers a large area and if there are members out there who can’t make meetings and want to be involved, e-mail me via the Eastern website.

John

Jenny tries the hard sell on Lorrie & Martin

WAAFS on a reunion visit to Eden Camp

Lorrie & Martin at the BMF

Martin & John at Willingham Woods

stalls, especially as the previous auto jumble had been cancelled due to bad weather.

The weather hasn’t been very motorcycle friendly so far this year. In fact I haven’t ridden my bike since the R.T.T.W. at the beginning of

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east midlandsSecretary: Rita Woodcock - 01332 515767

30th Anniversary Mike Hailwood Memorial Run

20th MarchIt was a pleasant morning as we arrived at the Birch Tree, but Steve and I were the only ones there. We waited a while for any late comers but to no avail so we set off for Birmingham a solitary bike in the morning sun. There were plenty of bikes going in the opposite direction until we were nearing Aston (the home of the Norton factory).

The briefing started with some sad news that David Hailwood (Mike’s son) would not be taking part in the memorial run as one of the bikers that he was travelling with had been killed on their way to Aston.After the briefing the procession of bikes headed off through Birmingham, unfortunately they were split up several times due to the normal flow of traffic getting in the way, but everyone had the route so in theory we should all get there ok. Heading out of Birmingham there were quite a few heads turning as more than 700 bikes passed by.The final destination was Tanworth-In-Arden and the church where Mike Hailwood is buried and a memorial service, before the bikes dispersed and went their separate ways.

Skittles Night - 26th MarchIt was another excellent turn out for the skittles night again, with 39 skittlers making it the largest number so far (or at least that I can remember).

Arriving at Bracebridge Street we were surprised to see so many bikes already there as it was still only early. There were that many bikes that we were practically parked at the end of the street with bikes three and four abreast in front of us. There was plenty of time to have a wander around and as we did so, still more bikes were arriving. At the briefing it was asked how far everyone had travelled and the furthest rider had ridden all the way from Austria to be there and it had taken him 2 days.

The evening got underway with the usual, ladies competing for one prize and the gents for another. Competition was fierce with plenty of barracking, micky taking and jostling to try and put off the competition.There was an early break for food with the usual dinner ladies taking charge, Barbara and Annie.

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The aiming seemed to go a little awry as the night wore on, no doubt due in some part to the consumption of alcohol. After three rounds of throwing the cheeses at the skittles, Karen (as in Karen and Graham) won the ladies competition and Steve (Phil and Delice’s friend) won the gents competition.A hard fought game of four corners followed, with three people tying for the lead in the early stages with three skittles apiece until Alan’s sister’s friend took an overwhelming lead and knocked down all four skittles.

MCN Weekend at Butlins Skegness 1st - 3rd April

It was a late arrival at Butlins and the rest of our party were already there, unpacked and out for the night, except for John & Jacqui who had waited in for us. Steve & I just about had time for a quick splash, change of clothes and a mad dash to get something to eat.We caught up with Andy, Karen & Mel in the Centre Stage nightclub watching Bon Giovi, yep you’ve guessed it they are a Bon Jovi tribute band and very good they were too. When they had finished it was a mad dash to get into Reds nightclub to see the one and only Steve Ferringo, with his usual outlandish antics and great rock music. The night finished off with the resident DJ playing until the wee small hours and we were politely asked to leave by the staff trying to lock the place up.We decided that we should just have a steady day on Saturday as there was going to be a long night ahead of us. We had a gentle stroll around the trade stands, which were fewer in number than usual, then wandered into the MCN Stage to watch the afternoons entertainment with the Bennetts equivalent to the Bucking Bronco, the Bennetts Babes on stage for the Babe off - this is where the girls compete against each other to see who can get dressed in full biking gear the quickest and of course the men’s favourite part, who can get undressed again in the quickest time. The latter always gets the loudest cheers. And to finish off the afternoon there was an interview with James Toseland who was nursing his right wrist after an operation

following a crash during an official team testing session at Aragon in Spain which has put him out of the biking action for at least six weeks.After retiring for ablutions and wriggling into our fancy dress costumes we met up in the Sun & Moon for a meal. It’s always entertaining sitting in there as it is on one of the main routes into the nightclubs where everyone is heading in their fancy dress. There was a good variety of fancy dress this year, from Baseball players, clowns, & Pirates to convicts, ballerinas and nurses (and that was just the blokes).

As you can see from the photo we were not to

be left out.

The best of the entertainment was all in the Centre Stage nightclub on Saturday (or so we thought it would be) with the Kaiser Monkey Killers who were very good followed by Mark Taylor as Meatloaf who didn’t really measure up as well as we thought he might, during which I took and break and went to see what Phil and the lads were up to. And here they are.

Phil and lads - just look where I found them!!!

The night finished off with Martin

Turners Wishbone Ash (a personal favourite of Steve & I) a great classic rock band led by one of the founding members of Wishbone Ash.Out and about on Sunday, we went along to watch the stunt shows, Steve Colley with his slightly modified stunt bike (front wheel removed) followed by the Bolddog Lings Freestyle team who were suffering somewhat due to the windy conditions, but they still managed to put on a pretty spectacular show.

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Having worked up an appetite it was time for a stroll along the seafront for Sunday dinner but not before we had explored the more frivolous areas of the Butlins camp, and look what we found along the way.Me being such a short arse struggled to get up there and then fell into the canopy killing myself with laughter.Unfortunately we couldn’t find anywhere to eat our dinner in peace without the screeching sound of Karaoke blasting out everywhere.Sunday night was a lot quieter, with a lot of people having gone home so there is less choice of nightclub venues. Meeting up with Neil & Bev in Reds nightclub we were treated to Lorraine Crosby - the female voice of Meatloaf’s “I would do anything for love”. A very accomplished performer in her own right with a great range of songs in her repertoire, and to finish off the night was a Madness tribute band (much to Steve’s disgust).

Chairman’s Challenge 9th April

The second of the locations for the Chairman’s Challenge was such a hike for Steve & I, we could hardly believe how far we had come and neither could Dibble when he found out. “It’s got to be the shortest ever Saddlesore mileage”. Well it was all of 4 miles to the OK Diner on the A38 at the Hilton, Wilington junction and that includes the ride down the driveway and across the car park at the diner. As usual Les and Di were there before us, (I think that they like to get in early to make sure that they are fed before the rush). John was just leaving, although we had said that we would be there at about 1.00 to 1.15 and it was just turned ten past. Is he trying to tell us something?After feeding our faces we crossed over the A38 and made our weary way back home, all 4 miles of it!

Wiltshire Rally 29th April - 1st May

Off we set for the first camping expedition of the year, brand new tent (arrived 2 days ago), and phew, it does fit into the top box. Weather looking good at the moment, but hey this is rally season and anything can happen. We stopped for a short break in Morton In The Marsh, what a big mistake, as soon as we set off the clouds gathered and down came the rain, if we hadn’t stopped we might have just stayed ahead of it. Sleeping bag strapped to the top box with an increasing damp patch appearing, what fun we will have tonight. As luck would have it we there was a patch of brighter weather ahead and by the time we reached Swindon the skies had cleared and any damp patches were drying out.Arriving at the campsite we started to put up the tent and soon gathered an entourage of helpful people when they realised that this was the first time that we had put this tent up. A few minutes later there was a rather loud crack as one of the brand new poles shredded. “Gaffa tape, Duck tape, Tank tape, any bloody type of tape”. With a little help from our friends the pole was bandaged and holding up.

A quick change and off to the pub for a bite to eat and to watch the nail biting Shove halfpenny competition (now re-badged as Shove Twopence piece).We were a little late rising for the ride-out so we set to and got some breakfast on what seemed to be a glorious sunny day, a bit breezy but not too bad. We had a ride into Marlborough and had a walk around returning back to a very windswept campsite.The Marquee had decided to walk about a foot forward of it’s original position and as there was only one person left on site while we were gone it was still in need of re-pegging. As I went off to fetch our hammer, all I could here was Steve yelling, “If you don’t bring that

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50th Anniversary Oxford/Gloucester

Rally 29th/30th/31st July

Lower Lode Inn, Forthampton, Gloucestershire, GL19 4RE

Plenty of camping space/link ups for caravans/motorvans/toilets/shower

B&B facilities either at pub or in nearby village

Lots of reasonably priced beer and food (evening meals from £4.95)

Beautiful ride out Saturday Saturday night entertainment

Friday night quiz

BOOKING FORM

Name:……………………………………………………………………………

Address:…………………………………………………………………………

Membership No:……………………… Contact Tel:…………………………

£5.00 per tent per night Fri Sat £10 per caravan/motorhome per night Fri Sat £5.50 per person for breakfast Sat morn Sun morn

Please send completed form and cheque payable to Oxford HOC to Erica, Foray, Elms Avenue, Thatcham RG19 4JT by 1st July latest.

Any queries to [email protected] or tel. 07799492235

hammer back soon I’m going to be having my first hang gliding lesson”. I ran back as fast as I could to find Steve hanging on to the frame of the Marquee, just about managing to keep his toes on the ground.That sorted, time to read the papers in the shelter of the tent doorway. Not for long, the gazebo attached to the camper van opposite us decided to take off several times before completely flipping over on to its back and kicking its legs in the air like a dying fly. By this time Ian had returned and so the 3 of us set to and dismantled it.Back to the papers once more. Again the wind’s ferocity increased and the Marquee decided that it would succumb and release it’s roof. Fortunately there had been a few more people arriving so there were many hands to help to put the roof back on, but, just as the last cable-tie was about to be deployed there was a terrific ripping sound as the roof split straight down the middle. Both roof and end section had to be removed leaving a rather large wind break. Unfortunately there aren’t ant photos because the camera died along with the Marquee roof.Once the ride out had returned, most of whom were agape at the sight of the Marquee remains, it was BBQ time followed by some alcoholic merriment.Unfortunately Steve & I had to get back home and couldn’t stay the extra night.

Thundersprint - 8th May

Jacob in their car (a little difficult to fit all 3 on the bike). We just made it through before they closed off the road for the Cavalcade, first time in 3 years.We met up with Andy and Karen once the road was re-opened after the Cavalcade and were meant to be meeting up with an HOC GB member who lives in Northwich and some of his friends from the Bristol Branch, but in the rush to get out of the house I didn’t pick up his phone number and couldn’t get in touch with him. I hope that you are reading this Tim, I did try to phone when we got home but got no answer, I did leave a message though.We went for a walk around the paddock and the trade stands, had a look at some of the older bikes taking part in the Thundersprint.The first race was the Masterclass which included riders such as Sammy Miller and

Jim Redman but was won by Frank Melling on a Seeley Suzuki 500, this was followed by the motorcycling ersonalities including Cal

Crutchlow, Scott Reading, Steve Parish and Danny Webb and was won by Ben Taylor on a Triumph 675, not surprising as the big stars were more interested in the competition to see who could produce the most smoke.Ten more races followed, some of which we actually got to see from one of the grandstands including the Pre-war category which was won by Keith Riley on a 350 Velocette and featured the ever popular Shuttleworth Snap ridden by the George Formby look alike Graeme Hardy.

RitaAfter a phone call from Alan to say that he couldn’t make it to the Thundersprint after all, Steve & I had an extra hours lie in and took the easy route up to Northwich. Just before we reached Middlewich we passed Ian, Emma &

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50th Anniversary Oxford/Gloucester

Rally 29th/30th/31st July

Lower Lode Inn, Forthampton, Gloucestershire, GL19 4RE

Plenty of camping space/link ups for caravans/motorvans/toilets/shower

B&B facilities either at pub or in nearby village

Lots of reasonably priced beer and food (evening meals from £4.95)

Beautiful ride out Saturday Saturday night entertainment

Friday night quiz

BOOKING FORM

Name:……………………………………………………………………………

Address:…………………………………………………………………………

Membership No:……………………… Contact Tel:…………………………

£5.00 per tent per night Fri Sat £10 per caravan/motorhome per night Fri Sat £5.50 per person for breakfast Sat morn Sun morn

Please send completed form and cheque payable to Oxford HOC to Erica, Foray, Elms Avenue, Thatcham RG19 4JT by 1st July latest.

Any queries to [email protected] or tel. 07799492235

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KentSecretary: Mike Gallafent - 01322 400775

We have had a good year so far. A few new members have turned up and we welcome them to our group, especially Dave and Gary, welcome. Numbers attending our meeting places at Windmill, Hollingbourne and Pied Bull, Farningham remain constant, much better than dwindling numbers but it would be good to receive and welcome a few more members.

At the start of 2011 we visited the ExCel Show and were going to visit the Ally Pally Show but decided that as it was so soon after the NEC and ExCel we preferred to go for a ride to Margate and Whitstable.

We then visited Bletchley Park together with a new riders group called Kent Riders, most of whom are connected with Kent Advanced Motorcycle Group (KAMG), of which I am a member. Here I am sad to report we lost one of our most active members to MG cars. Ron was a ‘born again’ from the year before, bought an immaculate Gold Wing and joined us, and other groups, on many rides throughout 2010, leading our weekend jaunt to IoW in October. Unfortunately Ron’s wife (as mine) chose not to partake in her husband’s hobby so the bike was exchanged for a new MGF two seater (yes they are still available).

Following this we went out again with Kent Riders, led by Tony Young of BMF fame, he led a ride through East and North Kent, finishing at Herne Bay for ice creams. We then visited the Victorian built Crossness Pumping Station at Abbeywood/Thamesmead on one of it’s rare open days.

Five of us were expecting to attend the Wootton Bassett Ride of Respect but due to unforeseen circumstances only two of us could attend on the day, but as there was an advanced administration fee the charity

did not lose out. I was unable to attend the April management meeting and overlooked sending in the report for Kent. Sorry. This is not my best forte and I apologise to the Kent members for not receiving the recognition they deserve! Must try harder.

We attended the Fairlawn Children’s Home for our Easter Egg run and were able to hand over a good number of eggs to these disadvantaged children. For the foreseeable future we shall continue to ‘adopt’ this home for Christmas and Easter. We had fifteen bikes/20 persons attend. Thank you all for giving so generously. We attended the Southend event organised by ACE Café, but rode a more scenic route than theirs. Frankly, although you get a bit of a buzz when there, there is little to do. Of course there is lots to see by way of variety of bikes but I would like to see more side-stalls etc!

We joined North London at their open day

We did not organise a specific run to Hastings this year although some of our members did their own thing and attended. I did not go but from past experience there needs to be more sideshows in attendance. North London HOC invited us to their ‘open day’ and five of us attended.

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Well done to Roland and Graham for raising funds for Air Ambulance and also for ensuring I was on the winning side of the tug-of-war. Honda dealership John’s of Romford were in attendance with some of their test fleet, I went out on a Pan and VFR and Nigel tried the Blade. John’s said they were collecting their Crossrunner in the week and I was invited to ride it the following Saturday. Very nice indeed but in my view some of the ‘extras’ should be standard fitment.

We missed the BMF at Peterborough because we thought we were going to have a HOC stall at the Kent Motorcycles open day the following weekend. Unfortunately this had to be cancelled which meant we were able to attend the Honda / Monkey bike event at the Ace Café. We are currently awaiting a new date for the Kent M/cs open day.

Roland and Graham of NLHOC visited Pied Bull for our club night and as we were invited to attend their HOC Roast, there will be some of us there.

In mid June eight bikes/eleven people are visiting Orleans in the Loire Valley, France, to be led by Tony and Dawn and we will plan another weekend trip later in the year. We have lots of other trips planned throughout 2011, including to Boughton House in August. Congratulations to Laurie and Sue who have announced their engagement, and our best wishes to Jill and Les that Jill has recovered from her illness. We wish David Stokes (Road to Damascus fame) a good adventure on his forthcoming venture around the ex-Eastern Block countries. I have no doubt forgotten to mention something or somebody that I meant to, if I have I apologise in advance.

Mike

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Planning for the Windermere Air Festival on the last week-end of July, 23rd and 24th is nearly in place. We will follow the pattern of previous years with a week-end of BBQ’s,

laKes & CoastSecretary: Mike Bell - 07738 830917

By the time Big Ed gets the summer edition of Golden Wing published, our first big event this year will be behind us and hopefully a success. This was a charity ride for Help for Heroes, and the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal in this, their 90th year, which was held on Saturday 11th June. We arrived into Bowness-on-Windermere where 70 Hot Rods had beaten us to Glebe Park. The sight and sound of so many four, three and two wheeled vehicles was a sight to behold, and built a great atmosphere in this honeypot of Lakeland tourism, some of us call home. More details on www.greatnorthrideout.com

Ride Outs and watching (and listening) to the RAF in our far front garden. Also, as last year, hosting the Northern HOC Roast so a great excuse for all members to meet and enjoy some great entertainment. Camping can be organised in the garden, or for the more sophisticated, Bed and Breakfast, many within 200 yards of here. E-mail me for details. The Red Arrows are due on Sunday, Colonel Montagu’s Regiment of Foote will be coming to the festival with an array of exciting living history and displays throughout the weekend.

Can you really afford not to join us for a week-end in this The Most

Beautiful Corner of England?

Hartside Cafe@ 1903ft, the highest in England

Parking during the Windermere Air Show 2010, which was the other side of the house

Red Arrows

Silverband Falconry are a multi award wining company with over 25 years combined experience in providing displays with Birds of Prey, The Pantonic All Stars Caribbean Band will be on the band stand, and within listening of our garden. The style of music is deliberately varied to re-create the traditional sound of the Caribbean, whilst demonstrating the wide versatility of steel pans. Easy listening and modern tunes are mixed with a selection of calypsos and some of the well known classics. For more info visit their website www.pantonic-all-stars.org

More details on the whole festival visit www.windermereairshow.co.uk

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We are doing another charity run in September for the Great North Air Ambulance Service, (GNAAS) which operates from its new base just outside Penrith. A circular route to visit not only the one Lake in the whole of the English Lake District, but also many of the Mere’s, Tarn’s and Water’s that make up the National Park, twelve in total

We have already made two Wednesday night visits to Knott-End-On-Sea but I have yet to make a Monday night to Lytham St Annes. I hope to do the Illuminations ride. which I think is the 3rd Monday of September. Have any of our members been and not told us? Devil’s Bridge at Kirkby Lonsdale is another

popular meeting place, together with Hawes, Middleton Teesside, Hartside and Glasson Dock and we hope to get over to Squires Café again, and up to Tan Hill.

Also hoping to join in the National event of meeting at one of the eight 50’s themed American Diner, no doubt more information elsewhere in this magazine. Most of them seem to be long way south of here, but you never know. We might even make Kettering for a Management Meeting, but that too is a long way down the motorway system! Who needs motorways, when we have such a natural playground to enjoy!

Come and join us, send us an email, at [email protected] and let’s meet up in 2011. We are a large geographically area, but what fun we have in that area. It is not just for the tourists, we can and do enjoy ourselves!

Drop us an email before you set off, and meet soon

A date for your 2012 diary. Come and join us on the longest day the 21st of June, when we are proud to be the overnight host for the Olympic Torch, as it continues its journey from Lands End to arrive at in London for the opening of the games.

Peter & Mike

Knott End on a Wednesday evening

Blackpool Illuminations Charity Ride, Pleasure Beach, there was 2 miles of bikes in front of us!

More on Knott End

We have and will be out and about again in the English Lake District, The Scottish Borders and the Yorkshire Dales, our usual playgrounds when they are not shrouded in mist and clouds, the roads wet with stones and puddles, still the roads are fantastic, and the views amongst the best in the UK. If you don’t believe me, come and have a look, and we will prove it! Don’t just watch the TV series of both the Lakes and Dales, you watch on a Monday night, we have to go out and enjoy it! These are real places with some cracking roads and spectacular views

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manChesterSecretary: Stephen Davenport - 07968 810435

At Manchester, we still have a very busy social life and are madly preparing for our 50th Anniversary weekend in June (probably all done and dusted by the time you read this. But we still have time to go on runs as the following reports show:

York Railway MuseumA lovely start to the day - sunny and warm. Not what you expect from the middle of April, but let’s enjoy it while we can. Which we did! A quick breakfast and off to Birch Services for the start. When I arrived there were already half a dozen bikes and more arrived while I was there. In the end, we had 13 bikes including John who had only just arrived back from France and Roy who was on his first Manhoc ride. Sharon was there on her new VFR800 (a lovely red colour), Dave on his classic CBX and it was all looking good for a nice ride out. Gary was our leader today because Keith was tired (he was also on the French trip, but was not as hardy (or is that foolhardy?) as John).

Dave & his classic CBX

So, off we go up the motorway to the junction to start our journey. All was well until we hit Littleborough. “Why are we going this way Gary?” came the cry. “Is there a better way?” came the answer. As it happens, yes there was - but we soldiered on anyway. Through Hebden Bridge and over the moors to Keighley. It’s a lovely road over there and we made decent progress. However, after that, it was a bit slow until we had gone through Otley

and, through a fortuitous wrong turn, found a really nice road to lead us onto the A59. We wandered up there for a while (at which time, we find out that Nicola quite likes men in Lycra) and once we had had a quick stop to stretch our legs, arrived at a pleasant pub where a decent carvery was soon consumed.

We stopped at a carvery for dinner

Then, into York and on to the Railway

museum. We parked up and commented at the outrageous parking charge (£9 per day) while we plotted our route out without paying (which wasn’t necessary because bikes parked for free). Into the museum and a happy hour spent looking at trains and being told what was what by Dave who is something of a connoisseur of these things. A cup of tea finished us off and we wandered back out into the sunshine to prepare for the return journey. We seemed to lose Alan R here - but he seemed happy enough looking at the trains, so we assume he made his own way back.

The ride back was very good. We basically stuck to the A59 all the way back. It’s a road which is made for biking - winding in places, plenty of places to overtake and very few towns to slow you down. We made good progress and soon found ourselves at yet another pub for our last set of refreshments (apart from John, who went straight home to let Judy rub soothing creams into his delicate parts) before we all went our separate ways.

So, another good run for the Manhoc crowd. I would like to make a particular mention of Joe Stapleton. He started riding last year and

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was very nervous about riding with us. But he stuck to it, has done some training and today he was as good as anyone there. So, well done Joe.

Hartside Café and BeyondA very interesting and, at times, spirited ride. OK, so that’s the preamble out of the way so you know what to expect. So, on with the story.

The forecast wasn’t brilliant (who remembers the dim and distant Easter sunshine?). But, I was determined to go anyway because the route includes Shap, one of my favourite roads. I did manage to stop Keith re-arranging it to avoid that road, but it was a close thing!!! On with the wet weather gear, fill the bike up and off we go. Not too bad a journey to the start point (M61 services) only to find they’ve knocked it down and we are actually meeting at the petrol station. I’m glad I had breakfast first!

By the time we set off there were 7 bikes, two with pillions (well done Nicola and Sam for braving the rigours of the English weather). We zoomed up the M6 for 30 miles and came off to traverse the countryside over to Devils Bridge. A brew stop refreshed us all, including bacon butties for the hearty stomached, and we carried on to Kendal and the A6 over Shap. I zoomed off ahead to enjoy the route and stopped just outside the village of Shap to take pictures as they all came past.

The bikes coming over Shap

Once done, I got back on to catch them up -

which didn’t take long as they were all stopped in a nearby layby putting on the wet weather gear (note, this was AFTER the heavens had opened).

We carried on up to Hartside cafe for lunch. Of course, the rain had stopped and it was

a really pleasant ride apart from the damp roads. But no matter, food and drink awaited us in that bikers haven at the top of the sky. We all enjoyed the food and chatted for about an hour until it was time to leave.

More food and drink

At this point Keith announced that he had no petrol

left and where was the nearest point of relief. Well, if you’ve ever been to Hartside, you’ll know it’s not exactly in a metropolis - so we just had to hope that there was enough left to get to Alstom (which there was). So, once we were refreshed, we zoomed downhill (ah yes, much better for petrol consumption) and filled up. Then, the lovely 22 mile switchback road down to Middleton. Once again, a lovely ride - this time not spoiled by rain.

But that was where the fun ended. The route then turned onto minor B roads which the winter had not been kind to. Bumpy, slow and potholed for about 25 miles until we got to Hawes. It took quite a while and we were all very happy when the cheese factory came into view and we were able to rest and get ourselves back in some semblance of order.

At the cheese factory

The last part of the route was again fun. The ride from Hawes to Settle is always good and, once we had got off the A65, the rest of the ride along the A59 was again fast and flowing. Most of the party then headed back to Alan & Norma’s place to sample the Chilli that Norma had made. Yummy!

Alan

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manx offshoreSecretary: Karen Angela - 01624 629299

As I write I am listening to practice results for the North West 200 which in turn sends me into panic mode as there are only nine days left to get ready for T.T. so we don’t miss any of it.

Since we last wrote we’ve marshalled at Jurby race track, Kim & Ian spectated and James raced with proper racing leathers and no orange vest as he’s now in his second season. He’s getting faster and came in a comfortable eleventh out of twenty two finishers. We all attended the Big Wheel Blues Festival launch gig in Peel and April saw us all in the Villa Marina for the T.T. press launch. An excellent night out but also a great relief to see Guy Martin and Connor Cummings upright on two feet again. Connor still can’t bend his leg as much as he could before so his Kawasaki has had the foot peg customised on one side so he can get back to racing. What with that and watching Ian Hutchinson walking round with a cage on one leg, it just shows how determined these guys are!!

our tickets already so now we couldn’t wait to see it. I have to say though that nothing could have prepared you for what in effect was an adrenalin rush from watching a film, and even though we were there at the time and knew the outcome, we still felt sick when Guy and Connors races were on, and when they showed some of the North West 200 I cried when Michael Dunlop won his race for his Dad. He would have been so proud.

The TT3D film has also made a lot of our mates stars of the silver screen. Kim & Ian are now minor celebs, as when Guy rode his pushbike up to the top of the pits there they were in full view. I can say they are declining interviews as they want to keep their family life private and are thinking of bandaging their right hands so they can’t do autographs!! It’s a tough life but Hey Ho! Overall I though the film was very tastefully produced and edited as a lot of us on the Island were worried about how much blood and guts would be shown. Thankfully there was none and I can’t wait for it to come out on DVD now, hopefully in October this year.

May Bank Holiday saw the Branch outing to the Big Wheel Blues Festival, this year held at the Villa Marina in Douglas, but it will be back in Laxey next year. Bank Holiday Monday saw four of us on our first branch ride out of the year and boy, did it feel good. We visited the first bike show of the year held by the Triumph Owners Club at Ramsay, only their second year but

Karen with John McGuiness

Karen with Ian Hutchinson

Being as how it was a press launch, it became an excuse to get photographed with the racers (for the magazine you understand) but I missed Guy, there was just so many people there, so I’ll have to trot up to the paddock at the start of practice week and get it in for the next copy. The same week was the official launch of the TT3D film “Closer to the edge”. The trailer certainly whetted our appetite for what was to follow, we’d booked

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extremely well attended. John’s BMW and my Honda ended up on a photo in the local paper but I can’t see them giving an interview either. After the show we rode over to Peel for an ice-cream and yes, you’ve guessed it, a cup of tea down at the Calf of Man. Brilliant day out, must try and do it more often this year.

We always try and fit in a music concert during TT so Kim & Ian have gone for DC/AC and John & I have tickets for Imelda May so poor James doesn’t know which way to go, my moneys on him going to see Charley Boorman.

John’s off for his “German for TT“ lesson this Saturday morning and I’ll be having my last lie-in on a Saturday for the next four weeks.

By the time you read this the Island will look like the racing never happened and we’ll be back to what passes for normality over here in

Dorset RallyAugust Bank Holiday

27th-29th August 2011Bruce Arms

Easton Royal Pewsey SN9 5LR

tel no 01672810216No need to book - plenty of space

as we have our own field

Contact Heather on 01305 778658or e-mail [email protected]

for more information

paradise, but then, we will have the Manx Grand Prix and the Festival of Jurby to look forward to, apart from our monthly meet at the Creek in Peel. These are usually well attended, about 22 and OK, 17 don’t ride Honda’s, well actually 18 I forgot John, but all the rest of us do. We no longer go to the Queens Hotel in Douglas, the beer’s too expensive! (you can’t take the Yorkshireman out of John) We are trying to send a MOB contingency over for the National Rally, just haven’t had time to sort it yet. Hoping your summer goes well without too much water from above, so for now,

Be safe, be happy.

This is M.O.B signing off from the core four + one

Karen, John, Kim, Ian and James

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Contact: Dave and Sue White - 07731 914284norfolK

This quarter of 2011 has already been very busy with so many good events. We started with the Chairman’s Challenge to the OK Diner at Stamford. Even though this was the Sunday that the clocks lost us an hours beauty sleep, 6 of us met near Downham Market at 10.30 to take Dibble up on his challenge. The bike thermometer was registering a hot 7C on the way up as we went the rural, scenic route through Wisbech to the A47 round the top of Peterborough and onto the A1. A quick 8 miles later we nearly overshot the turning to the OK Diner but pulled up to see some Hondas parked up and familiar faces smiling through the windows.

Branch members at the OK Diner

When we got inside the diner - a nice 1950s style building - it was WARM! Stuart - the on-duty manager - made us all very welcome and after saying “Hi” to HOC friends already there, we were soon sitting down to hot drinks. The menu was great and we were soon tucking in to some really nice food (the LARGE breakfast is highly recommended!). It was a very nice touch to have as much free coffee as we could comfortably drink - Glyn from Wilts Branch was going for a record to see how much of a caffeine fizz he could achieve - and then it was time to try the puddings menu. The Chocolate Cheesecake with peanut topping is a definite MUST to anyone visiting - smooth, creamy and gorgeous (the pudding NOT me lol). During the 2 hours we were there tons of HOC members turned up - lovely to see Oxford got there after a very early morning start - 7.30 we were told - Erica was

FREEZING when we said hello. Andy’s CBX 6-pot got many admiring looks but it was soon time to make tracks back to Norfolk. The run home was lovely and a bit warmer too - double figures on the thermometer. MANY thanks to Dibble for thinking this up - a really good one! 15% of the cost of the food was also very kindly donated to the Air Ambulance fund - another really good reason to make the ride!

Our first proper Branch run out was to Layer Marney Tower near Colchester on 10th April. 15 of us met at 10.30 in Eye on a glorious sunny Spring day to have a lovely scenic ride through Debenham, round the Docks in Ipswich, on through Manningtree, Colchester and out to Layer Marney. The Tower is situated out in the countryside at the end of a track.....rounding a bend you are met with the sight of this beautiful, huge Tudor brick Gatehouse... definitely built to impress. After a much-needed cup of tea and a very tasty lunch - well it was after 12 o’clock! - we split up to take in the delightful history of the Tower and go through the buildings and learn some of it’s history.

The Branch at Layer Marney

It was built to out-do Hampton Court Palace and has a strong link to Oxburgh Hall in Norfolk which is of similar design. Henry VIII and then Elizabeth I both stayed here. Some of us went right to the top of the Tower - stunning views for miles - and then went in to the Church where there were some beautiful tombs of the Marney family and a very interesting medieval wall painting of St Christopher. After several members checked

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out the ice creams we left for home at about 3pm - going back in several groups and via different routes. The place is well worth a visit and is a real gem tucked away with such important historical links and we had a brilliantly warm welcome from all the staff there.

A nice welcome

Our next event was our Lings and Norfolk HOC 50th Open Day. Our Branch worked hard with Lings

of Harleston - our local Honda Dealers - to arrange an open day. We invited Cambridge and North London Branches for a day out. The weather was awesome - wall-to-wall blue skies and temperatures in the 80s by the middle of the day. Julie from the East Anglia Air Ambulance was invited to run a stall to raise their profile. We also raised funds for the Quidenham Children’s Hospice - Norfolk Branch’s chosen charity. Andy Micklethwaite who runs the BikeSafe scheme across Norfolk was also invited to attend and spent the day chatting to a whole range of HOC members. Rob ran a really successful £1 a helmet park all day. We also had a great stall run by Jennie Regalia - or Auntie Wainwright (from Last of the Summer Wine) as she became VERY affectionately called during the day (DON’T LOOK INTO HER EYES.....)

Jennie and Roy

We started at 10 with drinks, cakes and savoury nibbles and then ride-outs on the wide variety of demonstration bikes including the new, brilliant CBF range. Mark and Andy from Lings were kept busy with loads of people trying the bikes out - the

Transalp surprised several people with what a great fun bike it is and the CBFs were really enjoyed. The Pans were tried out and all in all it was a very busy riding session. James was given the unenviable task of running the BBQ and cooked us up a whole heap of tasty burgers and hot dogs - VERY much appreciated by everyone. We then had a really interesting session with Dan and Samson - 2 of the Lings Bolddogs stunt riders. They explained about the bikes, how they are adapted to make their stunts easier and better and also what it is like to do flips etc. Even they admitted that being a bit mad does REALLY help! After their session we decided that, as the weather was just SO sweltering, we would do the run to the coast for an ice cream.

Graham Gull at Southwold

Many thanks go to Julian who organised the route and led us, with Sue and I as tail end Charlies. This was a good decision as we were soon running in lovely cool air through the Suffolk countryside and on to Southwold on the coast. We went a lovely route that avoided all traffic and even found a couple of slight hills to show everyone from the other Branches! Ice creams and drinks were the order of the day at a busy Southwold and then after an hour we ran back to Lings. During the day Sue, Freda and Penny had been selling raffle tickets - Mark and Lings had donated some really brilliant prizes. When we arrived back Mark and Jennie drew the raffle and the prizes were sorted. When we counted up the money for the day we raised £175 to be split between the Air Ambulance and Children’s Hospice and Jennie raised £250 from her regalia sales - profits of which will also go to the Air Ambulance fund. Finally it was time to go over the road to The Apollo for a social drink and evening meal - no surprise that everyone was hungry... The Apollo staff were excellent

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- serving up 35 main courses and desserts very quickly and well. Eventually by 8.30pm everyone from North London and Cambridge left and so the Norfolk Branch did too. The day was a stunningly good fun one with a great atmosphere. As far as we know Graham signed up 2 new HOC members and we spoke to 6 HOC members in our area who will now be coming to our Branch meetings and taking an active part in what we do - what a result!

Testing the demonstrators

HUGE thanks must go to Lings and Mark and

his team for the brilliant support they gave us throughout the day. They all really enjoyed having nearly 50 HOC members making a really buzzy and busy Saturday with them and it was nice to chat to them in to the evening. Thanks must also go to Jennie - she brings such a burst of fun with her. Also many thanks to North London and Cambridge for coming to have fun and a good play on the bikes - without you guys the day would not have been half the fun. And thanks to all our Branch members who helped with the raffle, food and the helmet park etc.

Next we had our Branch Trip to Normandy April 29th - May 3rd. 10 of the Branch (Roy/Meg, Geoff/Pat, John/Margaret, Tony/Penny, Dave/Sue) set off for France on Thursday - 6 of us staying at Portsmouth for the 7am Friday ferry while the other 4 nipped across on the train - staying at Le Havre overnight We sailed out past the now defunct Ark Royal and after a lovely smooth crossing, we all rendezvoused at Pegasus Bridge at lunchtime and immediately had drinks and some food, as we were all feeling quite hungry. Margaret and Pat had some fun ordering tons of filled baguettes and then it was time to relax round the Bridge and museum.

The Branch at Pegasus Bridge

This was a good lead-in to the American side of D-Day and the Band of Brothers story. The museum is really interesting and was only built and opened last year. 6 of us then rode on to look round the Merville Battery - which actually had no guns when D-Day happened... only telegraph poles in the gun emplacements to make the Allies think there were guns there.

We returned to Pegasus Bridge to re-group and then rode on to our accommodation at Le Clos Castel - a stunning re-built farmhouse run by Hazel and Steve Ramsbottom. They also have secure covered parking for the bikes! After a quick wash and brush-up we sat down to Boef Bourguignon - all the meals had wine included in the price (12 Euros/person) and then we forced down some apple pie and custard for pudding.

Our hosts in France

We all retired to bed full, tired and happy. Saturday started with a

tasty Continental brekkie (4 days sampling pain au chocolat, pain du raisin, croissants, cereals, fruit, yoghurts etc) we went out to visit St Mere Eglise where the Parachutist got stuck on the church steeple for 3 days but survived the war.

St Mere Eglise

We moved on via the Airborne Museum to Utah Beach with it’s good restaurant and on to St Mere Dumont with it’s beautiful huge towering Church and the Band of Brothers battle. We ended the day at Dead Man’s Corner museum - a really interesting place but

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with a grisly tale. En route we went through the miles of fields that had been deliberately flooded as a defence by the Germans - drowning hundreds of American paratroopers as they landed at night as a result. Sunday saw us go to the Grandcamp Maisy World Peace Statue - a stunning piece of sculpture in stainless steel. From there it was on to Pointe du Hoc to see the battery where the Americans had to climb the cliff to take it out. We returned via the American Cemetery at St Laurent-sur-Mere that overlooks Utah Beach. This was a huge place that is beautifully sited and very busy with Americans and others paying their respects.

La Cambe German Cemetery

La Cambe German War Cemetery was an important visit too - a much more sombre place with a very powerful monument in the middle. On Monday we spent the day in Bayeaux - there is a British War Cemetery there with a museum over the road full of interesting information. The British built the first-ever bypass in the world round the city so their vehicles could pass through and it was the first city liberated in WW2 - without a single shot fired too. Seeing the Bayeaux Tapestry is awesome - 70 metres long, stunningly made and displayed with so much information. The Cathedral was beautiful and the city has many lovely medieval buildings. Our hosts did us a huge BBQ for our final night’s stay and then on the Monday we split up - some going to the Longues Battery and Arromanches. Sue and I rode back past Utah Beach then on up the coast towards Cherbourg - a beautiful ride often just feet away from the sea - en route we explored the Crisbecq Battery - a very interesting one that did a lot of damage firing on to the American Beaches. The wildlife we saw in France - Buzzards, Kites, Owls, Cuckoos and much more was lovely. We all made our respective ways back to England

by boat or train - 6 of us stopped overnight at Portsmouth to break the journey I am sure that individually we will return to this area - there is just so much to see and do in Normandy and we have just scratched the surface. MANY thanks to Roy and Meg for the brilliant job they did in planning and leading a really interesting trip and coping with us all - we are left with many happy memories (Tony with his ice creams, John and Roy’s stories, Moules - mussels - with cream and white wine!) as well as some very poignant ones. I am sure our Franglais has improved too over the 5 days!

Our final event of this quarter was the Branch helping the East Anglia’s Children Hospice run their Ride for Life on 15th May. This is their major fund-raiser and this year over 1250 people took part in bike rides from 35 miles downwards or walks of 3.5miles length.

Flo with her medal

Tony and Penny from our Branch took their dog Flo on the walk and the other 8 members helped with marshalling, registering people in and out, giving out medals etc. The weather was the right temperature - not too hot - and we were busy from 8am till 3pm.

Rob with the teas

This was a very worthwhile event and one that we are happy to support EACH with - this is one of their larger

fund-raisers for the £4,000,000+ they need each year.

Our next 3 months look busy with the next thing we are attending being the ACE Cafe Honda Day on the 22nd May. We look forwards to a good summer filled with food, fun, socials and brilliant rides.

Dave and Sue

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Secretary: Chris Ward - 07827 393237 north downs

We have continued our ride outs over the spring quarter and have had some cracking runs.

When West London branch suggested having Sunday lunch at The Crown, we thought, “That’s a good idea, let’s do it”. So, on February 27th we all met up in Capel for a meal and get together. The weather was fine on Sunday morning but the forecast wasn’t brilliant which restricted the number of attendees on bikes, so quite a few arrived by car. As it happens the rain did start once we had sat down for dinner and it hadn’t stopped by the time we left. As usual the food at The Crown was excellent with many choosing a traditional roast although other options were taken. The staff looked after us extremely well on what turned out to be a very busy Sunday lunchtime. We all enjoyed our food with many sampling the delicious desserts that were on offer. It looks like this will become a regular event.

West London branch organised a ride down to Loomies Café in Hampshire on the 6th of March and I joined them for a very enjoyable run through the countryside on another beautiful day.

On Sunday 13th March, Doug and I met up with Jon, Jude and Tony of West London branch at The Admiral Hawke in Sunbury, for a ride up to the Ace Café. It was rather damp and drizzly as we left Sunbury and headed into London along the A316. As we approached Twickenham, the car parks were already beginning to fill up for the England v Scotland rugby match taking place later in the afternoon. We soon reached the Ace Café where we joined by Steve and Maureen from West London. The theme of the day was “British and Classic Bikes”, but due to the inclement weather only a handful had turned up. We did however all enjoy a hearty breakfast, one of the many things the Ace Café does very well. Due to the rugby at Twickenham, we all made our separate ways home, with Doug and me riding together as far as Ewell.

Relaxing at Loomies

Triumph Thruxton TT at the Ace Café

On Sunday 20th March, the annual Pioneer Run for pre 1915 machines took place from Epsom Downs to Brighton. Dave and I met up at Tattenham Corner, Epsom Downs for the start of the run. Once again it was a fabulous turn out of very rare machines, many over 100 years old. Solos were also joined by sidecar

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outfits and cycle cars as well, with some of the passengers even being dogs! Once all the bikes had left we mounted up and rode the same route down to Brighton which took in some lovely roads, avoiding the major routes. We soon began catching up the old bikes and unfortunately we passed many by the roadside receiving assistance. Once we arrived at Brighton we headed along the seafront to Tiffany’s cafe at Hove for brunch. The cafe has friendly staff, provides good food at value for money prices and is in a great location being just opposite the beach. I think we should organise a ride out down to Tiffany’s soon. After eating we had a little ride up to the marina and back and then started for home. We travelled along the A259 to Shoreham before turning inland on the A283 which took us up to Washington. Onto the A24 we soon reached Horsham and Dave peeled off leaving me on my own. I called into Box Hill at Dorking for a drink and a quick look around. As the sun was shining and it was now reasonably warm, there were plenty of bikes present. Maybe spring had finally arrived.

Steve and Maureen of West London and I attended the launch of the new CBR600F and CBR250R models at Dobles of Coulsdon on the 26th March. The event was fairly well attended and we talked to quite a few people about joining the HOC. The CBR600F seemed to be very popular with the public and several experienced a test ride. I have subsequently test ridden the bike and the review can be read in this issue.

Some of the bikes heading off to Brighton

A line up of CBR600Fs

Following our very successful ride out to Wessons Café with West London last November, we decided to revisit the venue on the 27th March but this time using a different route. We all met up at Ryka’s car park at Box Hill and managed a quick cuppa before our 10.30 departure. We had a good turnout with no less than 11 bikes and three pillions turning up and were later to be joined by one more at Horam. Our route took us down the A24 and then the A29 to Billingshurst where we turned onto the A272. At Cowfold we took the A281 towards Brighton before turning off to Hurstpierpoint and then on to Lewes. We picked up the A27 for a while before cutting across country to Lower Dicker for the final leg up the A267 to Horam. We were met at the café by Dave who had made his own way there and it wasn’t long before we were all tucking in to a hearty meal. The café is well worth a visit, the food is great value and the atmosphere superb. After a good feast and chat we made our way homes by separate routes.

Honda CD90Z spied at Epsom

Downs

This 750 Magna spotted at Box Hill was like new

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Ready for the off at Box Hill

On the 17th April the Ready to Ride event took place at Haslemere Fire Station in beautiful sunshine. A full report on the day can be found elsewhere in this issue.

Marion and I were the only members of North Downs to attend the wild and windy Wiltshire Rally this year and had a fantastic time in Marlborough. Well done to the Wiltshire Branch for a weekend of continuous laughter and frivolity with some superb rides thrown in for good measure.

Wiltshire Rally Wild West Riders

We have more rides planned for the summer and will also be hosting an HOC Roast event again at The Crown on the 24th July, so if you fancy joining in, drop me a mail.

Don’t forget if you’re passing make sure you drop in and see us, we meet on the first and third Thursday of each month at The Crown public house in Capel Village, Surrey. Until next time, ride safe.

Chris

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February20th We paid a visit to Chatham Dockyard. The day was quite overcast, but six us still managed the ride there.

We had a great time looking around the dockyard seeing all the history there. We didn’t manage to see all that is there due to the time flying by. It’s refreshing to know your entry ticket is valid for one year, so we shall be paying a revisit during the summer some time.

24th We held our first quiz night of the year. The quiz was well attended and was held on a different theme to how it has been held in the past, Apart from the question round there was also a two music rounds and two picture rounds. Everyone enjoyed the quiz.

27th Next we had a planned trip to Hastings. The group didn’t quite get to Hastings, they stopped on route at Ogri’s Café at Wesson Motorcycles. Here they refreshed themselves before they took themselves off on a route around Kent before then setting off home, time was getting on by now.

March6th Nick and myself went on a ride out to the Anchor Inn at Yalding in Kent. The day was very overcast, but dry. We had a stop on the way to Yalding at a pub in Meopham for coffee. When we got to the Anchor Inn we were very happy with the meals they dish up there. The vegetables were very fresh and the helpings were quite big. The prices we

Secretary: Roland Murphy - 07504 104908north london

We have been quite busy as a club since the last report with the following taking place.

couldn’t grumble at either. We then set off for home taking in a circular route around Kent.

13th Five of us had a very nice run out to Clacton on this day. We took the country route

to Clacton picking Jim up at McDonalds in Maldon. (I must remember to buy shares in that place). We had a little walk along the sea front before we headed into town and had a very nice lunch. The weather didn’t look as though it was going to hold out for us. When we left Clacton the sky started to darken and before we hit Colchester it started to rain. Needless to say we had to pull over and don our wet gear. Due to the rain, which was getting heavier, we decided to come straight back down the A12.

It was still a good day out on the bikes.

20th Today we had a ride out around Camb-ridgeshire with lunch at the Old Red Lion at Horseheath.

Twelve of us took part in the ride today. The weather was excellent for us. We popped up the A10 to the Silver Ball Café for coffee before we cut across country to Horseheath. The landlord of the Old Red Lion is a biker

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himself and so welcomed us with open arms. The pub itself is very nice and served an excellent carvery.

27th There were eleven of us today on this our first trip of the year to France. The ride down

to Folkestone went well, the weather stayed dry for us. It was when we got over on the French

side that the weather changed. On the way to Boulogne it started to drizzle. We had coffee in Boulogne before moving on to Le Touquet. As we rode to Le Touquet the rain stopped and for the rest of the day we had brilliant sunshine. We had lunch in “Jean’s Café”, lovely food and good service here. We then had a walk back to the beach and after a while we set off towards Saint Omer for our afternoon coffee break. We parked up in the main square in Saint Omer. We then had a nice coffee/drink in a café around the square. It was nice just watching the world go by.

After the coffee break we then saddled up and set off for Adinkerke, which is just over the French/Belgium border. The smokers in the group wanted to stock up on their supplies.

From here we made our way back to Calais for the train home.

April3rd They were five of us on the ride today to Wootton Bassett. We met up at South Mimms Services. We then set off along the M25, then up the A41 to Aylesbury where we refuelled. We went via the A418 to the services at Oxford, on the A40, for a coffee break. After coffee we used the A420 to Swindon. A quick trip along the M4 got us to Hullavington Airfield. Like last year there was thousands

of bikes here this day. We spent the time waiting to set of by looking at the various bikes present.

They were dispatching the bikes differently this year and I would go as far to say they did it better last year.

Anyway, we set off escorted by Police and made our way to Wootton Bassett. Again like last year the pavements and driveways along the route had the locals out applauding us as we rode by. We creep through Wootton Bassett and then I noticed my bike was starting to overheat. I checked the fluid level, which was spot on, I out the overheating down to the slow process through Wootton Bassett. Needless to say once on the M4 it happened, I was suddenly surrounded with steam. A plastic T piece had broken apart discharging coolant over the exhaust. A temporary repair was made, which only got me to the second services. Here the RAC were called upon to relay me home. Apart from the breakdown it was a great day.

17th The Bikers in Paradise show is organized by Hertfordshire Police and Paradise Wildlife Park to promote ‘Bike Safe’ was held as usual at Paradise Park in Broxbourne. Over the past three years we have expanded from just having a banner draped over 2 bikes, to this year when we had one of the club’s new heavy duty gazebos, to show off what we do. We managed to get 5 bikes on display in the small space we had allocated to us. The weather stayed fine all day and we were extolling the virtues of the HOC and inviting interested people to come along to ‘The Kings Oak’. This has been productive as 3 potential members came along the following Thursday.

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An enjoyable day and thanks to Graham, Alan, Jim, Phil and especially Ken who transported all the equipment for the stand from his ‘ranch’.

23rd The run today to Norfolk/Lings was part of the HOC’s 50th Anniversary celebrations and was organized by the Norfolk branch and as the first part of the day involved test rides, we set off from ‘The Kings Oak’ at 8 20. It should have been 8am but minor surgery had to be carried out on Jim as a piece of his earpiece of his IPod had broken off and got stuck in his ear. Anyway surgeon John, a pair of tweezers and Dave’s Swiss Army Knife solved the problem! Six of us made this ride. After a drink and cakes, and being cajoled to buy from Jennie’s regalia stall, it was time to sign up for various test rides. Jim and Dave opted for the VFR1200, whilst John and Phil took out the Fireblade. Mike fancied the ST1300 Pan, and a second hand one (04 reg) was wheeled out for him. Graham went

for the new CBR600F and we all enjoyed the chance to try something different. We were left to our own devices

as to where to go but most just went along to Bungay and back, a round trip of about 20 miles, mostly a straight road without much chance to try any twisties! Arriving back the BBQ had been lit so next on the agenda was a Burger or Hot Dog with more tea or coffee. After lunch we were treated to a talk by the Lings ‘Bold Dog’ display team, who perform an ariel display on 400cc trials bikes. It was now time for the ride out and about 25 bikes enjoyed a lovely rural ride to Southwold, where we parked up at the Harbour and enjoyed an ice cream, before our return ride. The town was extremely busy because of the excellent weather. When we got back to Lings, it was time to adjourn to the ‘Apollo Club’ across the road (the Branch meeting

place) for our evening meal, which we had ordered in advance. Afterwards, Mike went on to stay with relations nearby and the rest of us returned home after a most enjoyable day out with many thanks to the excellent arrangements made by Norfolk branch.

25th Today was the ACE Café Southend Shakedown ride out. We meet at the Total garage in Brentwood and had a great ride down to Southend. We parked up along the sea front and walked back along the prom looking at the various bikes there, as usual there were thousands. As the hunger pains started so we took ourselves off to the Neptune café where most sampled the all day breakfast to satisfy the inner man. The weather, as forecast was hot and sunny, so the next destination was Rossi’s for an ice cream. A few of us sat on the prom and tried to see the tide coming in (without success!) and then returned via the A127 with a stop at McDonalds at Basildon for a cooling drink, before finally returning home.

May1st There were eleven of us on the run to the Essex bike safe at Burnham on Crouch. We left the NLHOC in lovely sunny weather and it stayed like this all day. We arrived at Burnham and parked up. This is quite a small show, which doesn’t take long to walk around. The usual stalls are set out selling their wares. After going around the stalls we popped along the quayside and had a spot of lunch.

Following lunch we went back to the show after a last look around the stalls we made our way back

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to the bikes. We noticed that as we left the show Police on un-marked bikes mixed in with the groups of bikers leaving and followed them for some distance. This is a new initiative Essex Police are employing to combat bad riding. So watch out.

8th NLHOC hosted a HOC 50th Anniversary Open Day at The Kings Oak.

Invited to the day were Johns of Romford (Honda dealership), Met Police Bike Safe team, Essex Air Ambulance, NHS Educational Unit and Hein Gericke. All responded and attended the day. The day started

of with light rain, which started to fizzle out as we were setting up the site for the event. At 10am the show started.

Our members were itching to get on the demo rides and so formed an orderly queue to sign up for the rides.

I know that some of our members had at least 3 or 4 demo rides, which made them a very happy lot. We then had riders from the Kent HOC arrive followed shortly by riders from Cambridge HOC. Riders from the Essex Wings then arrived, putting their 9 Goldwings in the car park. During the day we sold cakes, held a raffle, had a Tug O War competition and had Horse Shoe throwing. After counting up the money we raised the total came to £248.70p. Well done everyone. Phil and Aryeh conducted an afternoon ride out for anyone who wanted to tag along. The Bike Safe Team had a number of people visit them and have signed some of them up for Bike Safe days. Thanks to everyone who attended for making the day go so well. I believe we did ourselves proud for putting on such a good day. Feedback I have been hearing is that everyone who attended had a great day.

12th Track day at Mallory Park. Four members of our branch went on this day. I understand that they all had a great time, albeit it did rain for some of the day.

15th We then attended the BMF show at Peterborough. Graham was up there all weekend helping to man the stand, well done Graham. Another six of us travelled up on Sunday for the show. The day was overcast, but dry. We had a cup of tea/coffee and cake when we reached the HOC Stand. Refreshed we then set off having a walk around the show. Lunch was taken with a variety of dishes being consumed, before we continued looking around the show. We got back to the HOC Stand just as the first prize award was being given to HOC for best stand at show. Well done all that helped achieve that. More tea/coffee and cake was consumed. We then made our way back to the bikes and set off home.

17th Evening visit to Essex Wings at Billericay. Just Graham and myself paid a visit to the Essex Wings. They had won three prizes in our raffle that we held during our 50th Anniversary open day on the 8th May. They were quite surprised to find out they had won three prizes. We had a pleasant evening with them and they have stated that they will pay a visit to us on one of our club nights.

18th Evening visit to Kent HOC. Just Graham and myself popped across the water to pay a visit to our cousins in Kent. We had a very enjoyable evening chatting about different things happening within the HOC.

This is just one of many evening visits to HOC Branches that I’m plannng for the forthcoming year. Watch out it might be your turn next.

We are hosting a HOC Roast in July, which you are invited to. It will be held on Sunday 24th July.

Please put us in your diary for this event.

Ride safe.

Roland

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Our Branch AGM was on Wednesday 6th April, a good attendance and lasting a record 8 minutes. The Committee remains as Stritchy as Chairman, myself as Secretary and Teresa Hooper as Treasurer.

Sunday 10th April had a few members join the Prescott Bike Festival and do the Hill Climb.

Yet again the Northants and Milton Keynes Branch have been very active.

Wednesday 16th March, 15 members enjoyed a fabulous evening at the Potbelly Brewery in Kettering. This micro brewery produces a range of high quality beers using traditional Malts and Hops. As we walked in we were greeted by Tony and Glen, the guys that own the Brewery and each given a pint glass. We were then directed to the 4 huge barrels of local ale and told to help ourselves. Of course we were very sensible about our alcohol consumption (hic). My personal favourite was

Secretary: Sue Beck - 07863 599992northants & m.K

We visited the Potbelly Brewery in Kettering

There was a selection of ales available

Stibbington Diner is always a popular destination

the Beijing Black, a smooth black ale that slipped down nicely. Our tour guide was very informative even though he had had a fair bit of his own brew. The evening was topped off by Fish and Chips, again very welcome. I would recommend any Branches to visit this brewery.

Wednesday 13th April saw our first Everyotherrun, as usual to Stibbington Diner. 14 bikes and 15 people set off for a short 30 mile bimble on a rather chilly evening. When we arrived we were met by Colin & Ann and Gimli, shortly followed by Kev and Penfold. As per usual the Diner did us proud with their hot welcoming food.

Our EORs continue right through to the end of September with a different run leader each time. Full details can be found on our web site and Facebook page.

Still to come:

We will be joining with neighbouring Branches for the HOC Roast on Sunday 24th July. 29th to 31st July we shall be having a stand at the World Superbikes at Silverstone. (I wonder if I can use my charms again and get the lads some track time).

Ride Safe. Sue

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Secretary: Graeme Burrough - 07050 158 381northumBria

HOC Northumbria travel to Northern Ireland

After the past years of going to Oban in Scotland for the May bank holiday, it was decided to look for something different. How about Northern Ireland I asked at the branch meeting?

A few raised eyebrows and the odd comment, but 12 of us decided it was worth a shot. Given the job of both finding a hotel and plotting scenic routes off I trotted to see what was available.

The hotel was a cinch, having stayed at the Hilton previously, I booked 7 rooms for us at the superb price of £32.50 a head (singles a bit more) - the Hilton has all the trimmings as you’d expect, saunas (2) Jacuzzi, swimming pool, fitness room and of course the unlimited fabulous breakfast - all included in this paltry sum.

they arrived at the hotel a little bit worn out at 22:30. A quick beer and bed summoned us all for the busy next day.

The Irish route was plotted starting by riding from the Hilton through to Carrick Fergus Castle with the idea to ride the magnificent A2 up the Antrim Coastline. I, personally think this has to be the best road in the UK, both for natural beauty and fabulous twisting well surfaced roads. It has to rate in my top 10 of roads out of the 38 countries I have motorcycled through.

Leaving the castle and harbour, the A2 unravelled in front of us, a natural break being taken at Cushendun. A picturesque fishing village that splits the route from Belfast to Port Rush in the north. From leaving here it was only a couple of minutes to Tor Head road, a single track road with views over the Irish Sea towards the Mull of Galloway - breath-taking!

Along this road are a couple of hairpins that can catch out the unwary, but having primed the group everyone was alert if a bit nervous. Roland McLeod, encountered the second of the hairpins at a slower than expected rate causing Dave Breen (Goldwing) to have to stop mid way and resulted in laying the bike onto the grassed area. No damage but it took 4 to lift it back to the vertical!

Meeting point arranged for early Saturday morning, Michael & Mandy turned up with a rear wheel puncture! A quick phone to the local dealer, a can of tyre foam and off they set for to expedite a repair. Unfortunately, the repair wasn’t as quick as needed be and they missed the pre-booked ferry by 45 minutes. The next ferry was some 5 hours later and

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Next stop was another comfort break at the Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge. This bridge is as the name suggests made from ropes that the salmon fishermen in the bygone days would put out across the “cut2 to catch returning salmon to spawn. More a tourist attraction these days, it’s still an interesting place to visit.

Next stop, the splendid Giant’s Causeway, in the north-east corner of the country. Some 40,000 hexagonal stone columns embrace the shoreline caused by cooling lava from prehistoric times. A new visitor centre was being built when we arrived and was a bit of a building site but catching the bus for £1 was the easy option over walking down the hill for a kilometre in full bike kit. Clambering around on the rocky stones means nimble footwork, photographs taken it was time to push on to Port Rush for a late lunch.

Arriving in the port, it was as always mega busy but accessible by bike and even a motorcycle parking bay was fully vacated as if expecting our 7 bikes . An hour’s stop was agreed before heading south again.

NC30 is well worth the visit. Photos taken, it was time to head back to the Hilton for showers and evening refreshments before heading for the ferry in the morning. I had planned to take the group to the Shankhill Road in Belfast to show the murals on the gable ends of buildings but sadly it wasn’t possible due to the Belfast marathon being held.

Ferry headed for, again the Fastcat Catamaran back to Stranraer meant another smooth and very quick crossing before our 4 hour ride back to the Northeast. Everyone without exception has a fantastic time and this run has to be repeated next year.

Graeme

Reassembled, our next venue was the Joey Dunlop memorial together with his brother Robert’s memorial nestling next door. Both very accomplished riders that it was felt that if one didn’t win the race, the other did!. Both riders strangely died aged 48. An impressive record of both riders’ wins together with a bronzed statue of Joey astride his Honda

Do you provide products

or services for bikers?

Have you thought about an advert in Golden

Wing?

For details of all advertising

options and costs, please contact:Erica Gassor

[email protected]

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Secretary: Erica Gassor - 07799 492235

oxfordThe Oxford Branch have been taking advantage of the lovely weather and have enjoyed some excellent events.Although not the brightest of days, a good time was had by all when Abingdon Honda opened their doors for us to spend the day test riding their range of Honda demonstration bikes. (pictures please) Plied with coffee/tea and home-made cake an excellent day was had by all.

Skins and won by Glyn from Wiltshire. We then had a lovely lunch in the sunshine at a beautiful Cotswold pub and now the third cards were dealt and everyone was trying to work out whether they had a winning hand or not. It was then of to Heign Gericke Oxford for the fourth card and a look round their new showroom. The automatic VFR1200 caused a lot of

discussion and interest and was able to be directly compared to the manual version as both were available to ride. The new CBR250 also caused quite a stir and was acknowledged as a good ‘all round performer’ with plenty of ‘go’. The test rides were expertly led by Billy, our local Thames Valley Police Biker who always sets a good pace and enables the bikes to be tested to the full. Abingdon Honda, being gluttons for punishment, have invited us all back again to test ride the new Cross Runner in early July - already looking forward to it.The Poker Run was our HOC 50th Spring out event and next big adventure - again meeting at Abingdon Honda where the first cards were dealt, we all had an excellent day riding round some great twistie roads. First stop was Skins at Brackley where we had coffee and a raffle was held for an all weather top donated by

Our final stop was for coffee/drinks and cakes at Foxcombe Lodge where the winners were declared as Paul with the 1st prize - donated by Abingdon Honda - and Andy with the 2nd prize - HG Oxford vouchers. Well done to Ted for organising the event and a total of £130 was added to the HOC Air Ambulance charity fund raising this year.

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Apart from having good fun out on the bike we have had some interesting presentations from Shiney Bike Syndrome - who does an excellent valeting and corrosion proof service either at your home or at his works in Newbury - most impressive. The Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance have been to visit us and update us on their activities and how much it costs to run ‘Bob’ the helicopter in the area. We are also all off to RAF Benson to meet the crew and ‘Bob’ which will be very interesting. With holidays fast approaching, HG Oxford have also been along and Ruth, who is a real biker chick, riding her bike from Gloucester to Oxford every day, gave us lots

of info about the best gear to buy and wear when touring - all really useful stuff,The Abingdon Air Show took place mid May and HOC Oxford had a stand promoting the local branch, our activities and all the benefits of joining the HOC. We look forward to welcoming more new members as the weeks progress.With the summer now in full flow we have a packed diary and are looking forward to lots of excellent biking days. Catch up again in the next Golden Wing.

Erica

As I’m sure you’re all aware, this year is our 50th anniversary and something we should be very proud of. As a theme for this years NEC show I would like a picture of 1 bike from every year we’ve been around. What I’d really like is pictures of your bikes that you have had over the years. So if you had a 1961 Honda and have a picture of it, I would love a copy and some blurb so I can do a wall of pictures from every year.I know there must be loads out there, so please please get in touch and let me put them on display.

Time is of the essence here as it’s going to take a while to collate all these and get them printed, so please dig those photos out asap and send them to me.

Plea for 2011 NEC Show

IF YOU CAN HELP, PLEASE CONTACT RONA

[email protected] or 07909 830236

DISPLAY BIKE NEEDEDI need a 1961 Honda to display

next to a 2011 model on the stand for the duration of the

show. Can you help?

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Secretary: Bryan Moody - 07813 849782

readingMarch proved to be a busy month for Reading, with interesting Branch meetings, rideouts and guest speakers all happening.

Back in October a few of the Reading members travelled over to the Millau bridge in France. At our first Branch meeting we had a discussion around what had been learnt from the experience. Hopefully, as we plan further adventures abroad, we shall be able to avoid some of the pitfalls found this time around. The major messages were preparation; communication; taking care not to be too ambitious with distances between stops; ensuring that there is a ‘fall back’ option for the unexpected, eg bad weather, breakdowns etc.

though not without firstly faltering our attempts to set up on the Thursday afternoon before the show. Our burger munching monster, aka Alan, was stuck on the M4 due to an accident though there were whispers that he’d actually got himself wedged in at the local burger bar having consumed their entire stock. Nonetheless, we thank Alan for his valiant efforts on getting to the show on the Saturday looking somewhat fuller however. During the day, he even managed to buy a new dining table set at the show for his good wife, the things you have to do these days to be allowed out with the motley Reading crew!!

Saturday started off well with a bottle of Mer going over Taz’s old “Blackbird”, as always egged on by the spectators supping piping hot cups of tea and coffee with the usual comments of “you missed a bit”, and another bit and so on and so forth. We also found out that Mia likes to use lots of different types of polish on her bits as well. Dibble and Graham Gull were there with their steeds along with Mia and Roger. Visits came from as far as the South Wales Branch of the HOC, along with Graham from ‘oop’ north. Dave and Edith doing their babysitting for the day came along and visited too, there didn’t appear to be any Red wine but we know that the hot dogs were “a bit of alright”!

Worzel was of course brightening up the dull start to the Sunday with the huge Golden Goddess, he’d even managed to clean the plastics on it too, and not before time. Taz finally managed to roll his backside out the pit during the course of the morning (well, it was Sunday after all) and join the rest of the gang. Over the course of the weekend, we also had visits from a rather large red setter and noticed it happened to have Hazel attached

Windsor show with the girls

Well it feels like only yesterday since Reading was manning their first Windsor Leisure show and here we are again at a successful second! With thanks once again from Gareth and his team from Reading Honda for helping us to ship our gazebo and other new goodies to the show, set up day had arrived with the General in Command, aka our very own Erica, manning the boats and getting stuck in along with Vicki and Ren. The weather on this occasion had decided to be a bit better

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to the other end with Geoff, Jackie and Steve not following on far behind of course. The show overall seemed to be smaller than last year despite meaning to be bigger but that didn’t stop plenty of people coming along. A few people showed interest in joining the HOC and plenty of families enjoyed plonking their little cherubs on our supply of bikes. The club purchased a 6 metre flag pole at the show; early indications dictate that Angie can’t be flown from it unless she gets a prop up from her broomstick so instead we’ll be getting our very own Reading flag to fly proudly from it whenever we are around.

The first of the years Thursday Night Trundles saw us heading off towards Kingsclere to Nelsons Diner for a burger and milkshake. 8 bikes set out and rumour has it all 8 made it back!!

Ready to ride with the crew

Brooklands Museum

The egg run - a lot of bikes

The first rideout of March saw the rabble heading to Brooklands Museum. Seven bikes out for the day, a gentle ride down to Jacks café at Bagshot for a cup of tea, then off to Brooklands. Harriers, Concorde, old bikes, old cars - whatever your interest it is sure to be covered here, a good day out had by one and all.

The final meeting of the month was taken up with our local Hein Gericke Manager Alan giving us an update of some of the latest products. Clothing and helmets were passed round the Swan, not sure a helmet has had so many heads within it over such a short period of time before!

In came April very quickly with the Wootten Basset Mothers Day Ride of Respect. Many of the members from Reading were there, some were even spotted on the local news, and certainly can be found on Youtube.

The Ready to Ride show at Haslemere Fire Station followed by a trip to the seaside was the next venue for a rideout. Just for a change there was ice cream and fish and chips by the sea.

The Easter Egg Run, organised by The Vultures, this year was lovely and warm with glorious sunshine. A good turn out of 275 bikes of which 10 were from the Reading Branch. A gentle ride through Reading, Caversham and out to Abbey Rugby Club for the usual food and drink. Over 3700 Eggs collected - a good and worthy day out.

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Easter Monday led to an impromptu day out led by Gavin ‘Bananaman’ with 7 bikes turning out for the Tale of Two Diners. Nelsons (we go there a lot!) followed by The Hilltop Diner where a few members from Wiltshire were found eating their way through the menu.

The final meeting of April was an Easter Bonnet Parade followed by Angie’s (W) Right Royal Quiz, as always, a good laugh.

Milk Shakes on the Trundle

The prize for the hat went to Ian, who seemed just a little too much at home in the hat of a country yokel. Rennie’s team won the quiz so the challenge now is for them to come up with a great quiz next time.

May has started with a great trundle out to the Red Lion at Avebury. 16 people on 13 bikes set out for the ride, ranging from a Goldwing to a 125 and all models inbetween. The roads were clear of traffic so a small amount of right hand twist was applied. This ride included 4 new members to the club, out with us for the first time.

The Branch is going from strength to strength with new members, new destinations for rides and hopefully new quizmasters! The coming months will see us off to Haynes Museum, Cromer for Chips, Birdlip for the HOC roast, together with many other clubs joining us. Hopefully we will see some of you at this event or maybe even at our Rally on 12/14 August.

Bryan

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Organiser: Graham Watson

sCotlandHonda Owners Club, Scotland

Branch, Meeting No. 2We met at the Showcase Complex at the appointed time and date. Unfortunately some had to call off due to prior commitments, work, Easter weekend, football and various other reasons. still, there was six of us met on what turned out to be a very warm morning. A member of the CBF 1000 forum, Frankie Foster came along to introduce himself to the group and expressed an interest to accompany on another of our ride outs if he was able, sadly he also had a prior engagement which meant he couldn’t come with us today.

John Taylor (who has kindly taken on the mantle of Branch Organiser) had proposed a route to Inveruglas at Loch Lomond, (the low road). It was a really pleasant meander through Gartcosh, Kirkintilloch, Milton of Campsie, Lennoxtown and Strathblane, in fact the same route we started with last month, but the weather made it feel nicer somehow.

I’ve just realised when I’ve tried to remember which road we took, I have looked at the map which John has taken great care and time to plan, then provide on Google Maps, that I have taken the group on the wrong road. Really sorry John, I should have taken more care and read the bloody thing properly. You were very polite and never cracked a light, I can only apologise to you and the group for that. I promise I’ll hang my head in shame and go to the back for the next run. What’s worse, I know some of the roads you’ve suggested and they’re exactly the kinds of roads I love.

Anyway after a slightly, unplanned, “I know how to get there” route, through Croftamie, Gartocharn and Balloch we were on the A 82 along Loch Lomond side. The weather had started to become a wee bit cold, as it does quite often along the loch side, and we were glad to stop at Inveruglas for a bacon roll and a cup of

tea. The cafe had just opened for the season and there was no welcoming bacon roll, they hadn’t started to stock the produce for hot filled rolls. They did offer a Spicy Carrot soup and a buttered roll which hit the spot even better, it’s recommended by Yvonne, Bill and myself for a heat on a cold day

We stayed there for an hour or so talking, and again getting to know each other better. The group seems to get on well with one another, Bill and Davie regaled us with some stories and anecdotes from their army days, it’s a wonder we are considered a world power really. There was also a discussion of “pillion sleeping”, which my wife Julie excelled at, even to the extent sometimes I never knew she was asleep.

We decided to return as several of us had a family Easter thingy to attend and Davie had to peel the spuds for dinner, (possibly another “Army days” anecdote?). Bill and Yvonne headed towards Stirling at Balloch as the rest of us headed towards Glasgow and home. I peeled off at Anniesland while Davie, John and Margaret continued through Glasgow, I hope they missed the football traffic.

All in all, a good day, no stress, no accidents and no-one got lost, just the wrong route taken to our destination. For my pennance I’ll go out one dark, rainy night and travel the proper route that John had planned, and if you know these roads, they’re nor roads for a dark, rainy night.

Our next meeting was not discussed but I would think it would continue to remain the last Sunday of the month, which would mean Sunday, 29th May. I don’t know if it again falls on a holiday weekend but John can confirm the date and time. Thanks for a smashing day and the company, the weather even behaved itself too and I look forward to the next meeting, I believe John is a dab hand at suggesting routes.

John G

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to collect for the Somerset & Dorset Air Ambulance, and we were really pleased when we got home and counted out the money to find that we had raised £251.89, this being added to the other money raised so far.

We are already planning another trip to the Island and would be pleased to welcome any other members of the HOC who would like to join us.

This last quarter has been particularly busy with a Treasure Hunt in

March around the area, and a fancy dress run to Minehead on Easter Sunday. These two events have also helped us to raise the total we now have.

On June the 12th we have another fund raising event - The Four Counties Air Ambulance Run to Newquay, where some will stay overnight and others will come straight back.

Norman

Contact: Norman Templeman Tel: 01278 794964

somersetIt has been very busy year since we decided last Autumn that our charity for the year would be the local Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance... not realizing at that time that the Air Ambulance was going to be the HOC 50th Anniversary charity of the year as well.

As one of the fund raising events, we have just come back

from the Isle Of Wight, where we stayed at the Norton Grange Coastal Resort. Apart from the thunder storm on the Friday evening, along with rain on the Saturday and Sunday evenings, we all had a brilliant time and went out exploring the island on the Saturday and Sunday. Yes, the weather was good during the day, and we didn’t really mind the rain in the evenings as we were treated to some great cabaret acts in the ballroom. The food was brilliant and we were made so welcome by all the staff at the complex.

Saturday saw a visit to The Needles and a trip on the cable car, followed by a visit to Ventnor. On Sunday we had a fascinating day at the Steam Railway, (see picture) followed by a trip to the very pretty village of Shanklin and then onto the beach at Sandown.

We were joined by Erica and Gerald from the Oxford branch of the HOC, who also had a great time.

While we were there the Resort allowed us

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Hi Folks,

Hey what’s that funny yellow thing in the sky? Oh it must be the sun! What fantastic weather we are having. Branch Life is getting back to normal and the summer season of Wednesday and Sunday rideouts have started.

We are busy organising the Solent Branch Rally scheduled for the weekend of June 17th to 19th. To celebrate the 50th Anniversary we are arranging for a FREE HOG ROAST on the Saturday evening and we are looking to run some other games etc to give the evening a party atmosphere. The new venue at Greenhill Farm seems to have worked well last year with the owners being far more chilled out and friendly towards us than the Roundhills team. There will be a Saturday ride-out as usual and we are currently considering going to the HMS Alliance submarine museum at Gosport.

It has been decided that the Free Hog Roast will be open to all Solent Branch members regardless of whether you are attending the rally or not so if you want to come along just for the evening then please do. Why not make a day of it and come along for the rideout as well?

April saw the first Sunday rideout to the ‘Ready to Ride’ show at Haslemere Fire Station. I must admit I’m not sure that I was expecting much with a Fire Station for a venue but it was a gorgeously sunny morning and when we all met up a Wickham Square we decided we would give it a go via a ’scenic’ (that means twisty) route through West Sussex and have a back up plan if it was rubbish when we got there. What a surprise when we did. The place was heaving with bikers and stalls and we had an enjoyable couple of hours looking round. It was good to see Alan and Barbara back on their bike after nearly 3 years of ’one thing after another’ making it impossible for them to ride together. Also it was the first trip out for our new recruit, John Burgess, - welcome to the club John.

Secretary: Barbara Peace Tel: 01903 716035

solent

John’s 1st encounter with the HOC stand

John, Geoff, Pam, Tom and Roland at the Ready to Ride Show

Well done also to the North Downs Branch for manning the HOC stand. In the afternoon we took a ’scenic’ route to Newland’s Corner for a chat and chill out in the sunshine then home via the A272 (always ’scenic’ that road!) to Loomies for a tea and then home. A good day was had by all.

The following Wednesday saw the start of the evening ‘to somewhere nice’ rideouts. Meeting

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at Wickham Square a 7:30 we decided to blow the cobwebs off with a short ride to Station Café Alton via a ‘scenic’ route taking in Winchester and Cheriton (funny how all routes lead to the 272). Cold but enjoyable.

The next Wednesday run was to Chichester and Midhurst and then back along the 272 to the Seven Stars for a warm up. Surprising how cold it still is in the evenings even after a warm day - As Keith found out when all he was wearing was a t-shirt under his leathers!

with the latest info to keep you up to date. The mailing list is growing nicely since it was started at the beginning of the season. If you don’t have access to email then send me a text on 077321 43721 and I’ll text you back the latest info. I would prefer email if possible cos it doesn’t cost me anything whereas texts do.

What a bummer about Portsmouth/Worthing Motorcycles closing down - our best wishes to Fred and his teams and hope it all works out for you all in the future. Fred has been a good friend to the Solent Branch over the years. That now means that our nearest official dealer is some way away - I think that Farnham is the nearest - but the good news is that the Portsmouth workshop foreman (Dan) and a mechanic (Stuart) have started up on their own. They use genuine Honda Parts unless you specify pattern parts.

Their address is:- Unit 23, Challenge Enterprise Centre, Sharp’s Close, Portsmouth. PO3 5RJ. TEL:- 02392-698254. It’s off the Eastern Road near Morrisons supermarket. I’m not sure how any servicing they do may affect any warranties, I suggest you check that out with Honda if you think it will affect you.

Laycock Abbey picnic

Nice to see Barbara and Alan back in leathers again

Our next Sunday run was across Salisbury Plain to Laycock Abbey near Chippenham. We primarily went to visit the Fox-Talbot Photographic Museum. Laycock Abbey was the home of Henry Fox-Talbot, one of the pioneers of Photography. I must admit we were a little disappointed with the Museum but the ride, on another sunny day, was worth the effort. The turn out was low because it clashed with the Wiltshire rally but we met Barbara and Alan there and had our lunch together.

That’s it to date but by the time you read this we will have done the ride out to the Ace Café Honda Day, the June Sunday run and a couple more Wednesday ‘somewhere nice’ runs and possibly the Solent Branch Rally which I will report about in the next edition.

If you need more info about the various rideouts then you should get on my email list. If you send me an email to [email protected] I will add you to my regular mailout

If you have any queries about the Branch or just want to get in touch with us then contact Barbara Peace on [email protected] or 01903 716035 if it is a rideout related query then contact me at [email protected]

Happy Hondaing

Tom

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Secretary: Donna Richards - 01639 766406

south walesHere we are again, on the verge of an exciting summer, full of 50th anniversary events. April was a truly glorious month, with lots of opportunity for getting out and about. As I am writing this, I have just heard that a heatwave is being promised which should last well into June. Can’t fault it!

So far, this year, we have had a few successful rideouts. We went to St David’s for the day back in March and

we also enjoyed a ride to the British Leisure Show, where we visited the HOC stand. It was a long way to travel and meant a very early start; but it was a really good show and we thoroughly enjoyed it once again. Some of the boats were fantastic. All I need is a nice little lottery win! This year, I was particularly taken with some of the hot tubs and jacuzzis on show. They were amazing. Some of them were bigger than my garden. Ah well, I can dream, can’t I?

We have acquired a few new members since the start of the year, which is very promising. Our new venue for meetings is also proving to be a success. We now have a private room in a pub, which means we can organise talks and events there. More members are turning up to the meetings because they feel more comfortable with this arrangement.

I received a phone call recently asking if the HOC would like to have a stall at the new Welsh International Motorcycle Show at Builth Wells on the Whitsun Bank Holiday weekend (Friday 27th May to Monday 30th May). The event used to be a very popular one with lots of stalls, events and excellent live bands. It was cancelled a few years ago, but is now being revived. South Wales Branch have agreed to look after the stall with help from anyone who would like to be involved. We will also need a bike or two to show. By the time this is published, the show will be over. Let’s hope it’s a success. At the moment, I’m biting my nails down to the quick, worrying in case I’ve forgotten to do something.

We are looking forward to some of the events coming up for the 50th Anniversary and I’ve been trying to drum up support from South Wales for the 50th Anniversary Rally. I think there are quite a few members who have either booked or are going to soon, which is really good. I am looking forward to it and have already registered for HOC’s Got Talent.

Our local branch members were very interested in taking part in the Chairman’s Challenge, but unfortunately the mileage involved in getting to the diners was too high for one day’s travelling without a stopover, so they decided against it. Hopefully, there will be other events that we can take part in.

In April, Mike Jeffs led the annual rideout to

Stepping Out

You’ve been framed

Whose round is it?

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On our ride back, we stopped off at the Haynes Motor Museum at Sparkford. It was really interesting. There was a huge range

of vintage cars and motorcycles. I loved the Ghostbusters ambulance. You could make the lights flash, get the siren to work and make it play the Ghostbusters theme tune.

Brilliant! An unusual addition was the alien exhibition. If you like Sci-Fi, (which I do) it was an interesting collection of costumes and models from a range of Science Fiction films. I had my photo taken with Darth Vader - rather scary. Phil thought it would be funny to creep up behind me and frighten me. Let’s just say, it worked!

Last weekend, we paid a visit to Aberglasney House and Gardens, near Llandeilo. What a lovely, tranquil place it is. I’ve included a picture of Terry and Lyn in the Ninfarium, (No, I didn’t know what it was either. Apparently, it’s an indoor garden.) Just down the road is The Cottage Inn, where we had a really nice Sunday lunch. The pub and hotel have just re-opened and the manager is keen to promote it. They offered us a 10% discount for Honda Owners’ Club members and are considering taking out an advert in the Golden Wing. The pub is situated on the A40, a really popular road for bikers. If you are in the area, it’s a nice place to stop.

Well, if the weather delivers, as promised, we should have a good summer, out and about. Fingers crossed!

Hwyl fawr

Donna

Tregaron. Gareth and I didn’t make it due to our management meeting commitment, but there was a good turnout and the weather was fab. A good time was had by all and the members wanted me to thank Mike for an excellent day out. Good on ya, Mike! Since then, unfortunately, Mike has been having trouble with his knee and has been unable to

get out. Hope it’s better, soon, Mike!

Easter weekend, we went along to Pembrey Racing Circuit for some

classic bike motorcycle racing. Once again, the weather did us proud. We took a picnic and really enjoyed the day. It’s well worth a visit as not only is it a great circuit for racing, but the roads to get there are excellent for biking. Terry took some excellent pictures and I’ve included a selection.

On Mayday bank holiday weekend, we went on our usual pilgrimage to Paignton Bike Show. Unfortunately, the weather in Paignton could have been better. It was all the worse as the weather back home in Wales was lovely. We had a bit of fun, but found the show itself was all a bit same old…same old… this year. It could have been the weather. Perhaps we’ll give it a miss next year. Anyway, it was nice and dry in the pub.

Daddy, is that a Pan...

Who ya gonna call...Round and round they go

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Secretary: Keven Ludlam - 0114 281 7193 or 07753593641

three shiresSince the ‘S no Rally in March we’ve had several ride outs including the Ride out to the first Chairman’s Challenge. 5 of us turned up for a scenic ride through Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire including a new member Robert on his Gold Wing - that is to say he became a new member of the HOC the minute I introduced him to Graham Gull at the OK Diner, he hadn’t had time to order anything to eat before forms were signed - welcome to the club Rob.

April saw the second Chairman’s Challenge and so Angie and me set off early to be one of the first to arrive at the OK Diner on the A38 meeting John Awty there.

Then a ride to Willingham Woods - a good Biker Meet in the middle of Lincolnshire.

Then one of our big events of the year the Annual Egg Run 2011: The day started of with a bit of a panic for me after all the efforts of people to get this going at 09:15 there was about 50 bikers there and the ride off was to start at 10:00am - then the Biker god smiled on us and they started streaming in one after the other, Harleys, Triumphs, Suzukis, club after club, wow this was gonna be a good day. The AA bikers turned up to help with any stranded bikes and to bring up the rear. The Blue Nights (Police bikers) helped out with the Road Marshalling while the South Yorkshire Motorcycle division controlled the ride and safety while the Three Shires people marshalled the parking at the start point and also at the finish line outside the Sheffield Children’s Hospital. James Toesland again supported us but unfortunately couldn’t ride a

bike because of his injured wrist and started the collection off by donating £5000 to the cause, what a guy… at the end of the day when it was all done we sat down and counted almost £3000 and was told that the police had officially counted over 700 bikes… Nog pulled a neat trick by buying 2 T shirts and having JT sign them and when all the T shirts were sold he auctioned these two off as collectors items raising £85 from two very generous bikers - thank you Nog but also thanks to the two bikers.. What a day and to cap it off at the end of the day some of us had a ride to Matlock for coffee and Ice Cream.

Thanks to all who helped with this event, one of those events that is hard work and wouldn’t be possible without you all.

May had the BMF rally which I attended and I have to say the HOC marquee was superb and having two Marquee’s worked very well. On the Saturday the bikes on display attracted quite a lot of interest, with the other marquee having a band playing and the café supplying the teas and coffees and buns etc. what a success that was, well done to all the organisers especially Kim who was tireless in everything she did. I had a great day and it’s always a pleasure meeting up with everyone from the club.

We have our Three Shires AGM scheduled for 23rd May and a trip to the Yorkshire Mining Museum in early July and the Summer Rally set for Mid July - details are on the Web site.

Keep smiling and have a great summer.

Kev

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We start the story this time on a very wet Sunday in April. Even though the weather forecast said it wasn’t going to rain, so Phil and I put our leathers on… rain it did. Weren’t too bad till we got to the bridge over to Anglesey then it was awful. We paid our money to get into Ty Croes, the race circuit and parked the bikes (5 of them). It was then a quick dash out of the rain into the café for a much needed brekkie while we waited for the rain to stop. Haha what a joke, it didn’t at all. Went to watch a bit of racing with our helmets still on trying not to get soaked, couldn’t take any pictures either as I daren’t get my camera out and then gave up and decided to go back to the café for 1 last brew and cake then off back to the mainland to see if we could get some sunshine. Headed to Betws y Coed eventually for another cake… yes there is a theme to our Branch LOL, and sat and

watched a baby steam train in the station there before heading back home the long way via Bala lake for

a mini photo shoot. My boss had very kindly lent us his R1 for the day and Lewis had his new toy as well… so not much in the way of Hondas here, oops, but we took a few piccies by the lake and then headed home for a much needed change of clothes… me and the R1 were black by the time we got back, then took the R1 back to my boss and picked Gonzo back up… god my bike is soooooooo comfy compared to the R1, was a pleasure to get back on him... I do love my baby.

Contact: Gary Fisher - 07932 058540

west Coast ridersNext we went deep underground in Llechwedd with a slate mine tour. Brilliant place… again a bit of

rain during the ride there and back and only 1 person showed up at the start with Richard meeting us at Llechwedd. First up was the deep mine tour where you go down in a very steep train ride to the bottom of the mine. Very interesting, you walk through following the story of a 12 year old lad that worked there years ago. Then it’s back up on the train, followed by lunch for us then onto the next tour, which was a tramway tour through the tunnels past a part of the current working quarry etc, the tramway then drops you off in a shed where you learn how they split the slate by hand as they still do today, apparently it’s the only way it can be done. By this point Richard had arrived and after a few piccies we set off in a hurry to get Richard his cake in Betws as usual… we should have shares in this café LOL, before a lovely ride home down Phil’s fave road.

I had a day off over Easter which is surprising, so on Monday we decided, thanks to a recommendation from Brian to go to Criccieth to enjoy a meal at the Blue China tearooms, also recommended by Brian. The day started out a bit cloudy and although Phil and I braved our leathers again, we did think we might get wet again at some point, but we headed towards Wrexham down some country lanes and into clear blue skies which never disappeared at all for the rest of the day, it was gorgeous. Found a interesting little road that

It’s dark down here

Me on my bosses R1

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lead into the back of Llangollen at one point… I say interesting… it was a tiny single track road, with a line of gravel right down the middle for virtually the whole road… very very steep descent through a ford, past sheep in the middle of the road etc

etc..and into Llangollen… well the boys were cursing me that’s for sure, and you certainly wouldn’t have wanted to touch anyones brake discs as they were on fire by that point. But they forgave me and we went in search of a brew and cake to chill out from the experience. Found a lovely place called Buttered Crust that was very accommodating, fantastic service, the girl even offered to take a piccie of us all to mark the event which was nice of her. Then it was back on the bikes...all 6 of them (7 peeps), and off towards Bala via the back way, then eventually through to Criccieth for lunch. As I said this was partaken in the Blue China tearooms which had excellent service and fantastic food at a pretty reasonable price. So if you’re ever in the area, pop in. After a stroll around Criccieth, up to the castle and down to the beach, it was back on the bikes for the ride home. At this point we lost Mike as he wanted to go a different way home, so the 5 bikes trotted off through some stunning countryside and passing a gorgeous steam train where the driver waved at us which was really cool and fab roads back to Betws y Coed as usual for a drink and cake at 7.30pm, good job

somewhere was still open, but unfortunately not our usual place, then back down Phil’s fave road to test everyones metal on a very twisty lovely road. A brief stop in Abergele to discuss the route to take home and off we went. Waved everyone off near home and got in about 8.45pm after a very exhausting, but wonderful day out with some fab company.

And lastly for this episode we take you on a witch hunt to Knaresborough and Mother Shiptons cave and the Petrified Well. Early

start for this one and unfortunately Richard got the meeting point wrong and never came with us, so it was

really a Manchester Branch rideout, as the only people to show were Paul, Malc and Val from their Branch… so a massive thanks guys for showing up and making a very miserably rainy day much more fun. We arrived at the entrance to the cave after a few wrong turns and missed roads on the route up there to be greeted by a lovely chap that let us in with free parking for the bikes… it’s usually £2 per car, so that was very nice of him. Then it was off for a walk along the river to the cave and well then onto the shop of course… hey this is me talking!! Then Paul and I went up to the castle while Malc and Val went to find Phil, who’d wandered off down the other side of the river. Then we all met back up again for a drink, very kindly paid for by Malc, so thank you very much darl, then back to the bikes for the horrible ride home along the A59 in the rain. So we started out at 9am with 3 bikes and 5 people and got home around 8pm shattered and wet, but having enjoyed a great day out with excellent company as usual.

And so till next time ride safe and have fun in whatever you do.

Love Ro & Phil xxxx

Malc & Paul admiring the hot choccie

Gang at Criccieth Castle

Us at Mother Shiptons cave

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Secretary: Steve Hill - 01689 850999

west londonSunday March 6th

We decided to ride to Loomies which is a bike cafe an the Junc of the A32/A272. It was the first decent weather for a bike ride for a while so with Jon leading (who is now our runs leader. Jon seems to remember obscure roads

and know where he is going with out getting lost. When we have runs out we try to avoid A roads and stick to

the B roads which are often less crowded and more interesting. we covered about 80 miles on the way out with most of A roads empty so we managed to maintain a good pace, We reached the cafe about 12ish the carpark was already full of other bikes. Its a bit like Box Hill but smaller (And there is no hill - Jude). We all had a late breakfast - food was good. We then sat outside and watched the bikes for a while before leaving at about 1.30. We stopped off at a nearby garage for petrol but two police riders arrived and came over for a chat about my VFR1200 of course this did not go down well with some one (Jude.with engine running and using her fuel up) so as everyone else had left and was waiting over the road (Our subtle hint, Steve!) I thought that I had better join them - so we continued our ride home - we decided that we would go down one road twice because it had some really great bends. All in all it was good ride out we covered about 148 miles.

Sunday March 13thWe had a short ride to the Ace Cafe which was hosting a British & Classic bike day. But

the weather wasn’t too good - it was raining so there were only a few old bikes on display but the Ace Cafe was full of modern bike riders enjoying a high cholesterol breakfast.

Sunday March 27thWest London met up with North Downs Branch for a ride to Wessons bike cafe. Chris Ward led this ride out where I think we had 11 bikes. Chris lead us down some interesting roads. Out of ALL the bikes the one that has the biggest tank - one of the Pans needed an early fuel stop. Well least it wasn’t me for a change with only 18ltrs of range. This was our 2nd time to Wessons - its a nice cafe and a very good breakfast just as well ones not worried about putting on a few pounds! There is a reasonable car park behind the café.

Sunday April 17thThe Haslemere Bike Safe Day at the local fire station is a joint affair with North Downs Branch. The show itself has being going for 4 years and it always manages to have good

weather. We were given a good pitch next to a burger van so everyone saw our stand. One of our local dealers

- Tippetts was also there. We had a visit from Steve Martindale the HONDA UK manager for

Loomies Café

Box Hill on way to Wessons

Bike Safe

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few miles down the road from Brighton called ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ the food was amazingly cheap and quite ok.

Tuesday May 10thAs I am working now I could not leave early so I met the others down at Poole Quay leaving home at 1700 hours I covered the 138 miles in an hour and a half (speeding???) I found the roads not too busy for a change. The rest left about 0330 and had fish & chips on Poole Quay opposite a naval mine sweeper! When I got there, there were still a lot of bikes around compared to last years rather sparse turnout. We walked around and looked at the bikes for a bit before heading for home. It was a good evening out - might be good to have a joint Branch run down there sometime.

The BMF RallyThis year it seemed very quiet people wise - especially when compared to about 5 years ago. The HOC stand organised by Cambridge Branch looked great - very professional looking with the usual warm hospitality - and cakes! A new addition this year was a rather good duo playing 50’s and 60’s music - well done the Richtones! It therefore wasn’t too surprising that we won the best club stand award - which was rather fitting in this our 50th year. Well done to all those who organised it.

We have a full runs sheet for the next few months. With pub lunch runs, Beaulieu Motorcycle Ride In, Solent Rally, and Rockers Reunion run to name but a few. If you’re in our area - come along and see us - we’re quite friendly! We even have a Facebook page! Look for West London Honda Owners Club.

Anyway... safe riding

Stevewith a few comments from Jude

Honda bikes who lives close by. (I did ask him if Honda made a centre stand for Hornets but he didn’t know…) we even managed to pick some new members and sold a few things as well! Thanks to Chris & Marion for organising the club stand - top effort!

Friday 22nd Reading Easter EggFor a change the weather was sunny, last year it just poured with rain. It’s a shortish ride to Reading for us so we had plenty of time for a scenic ride to Reading but something come up and we had a late start. A certain person (Let’s not beat around the bush Steve - it was me !) put 37p’s worth of diesel in their bike I will spare any more embarrassment about who it was - but no harm came to the bike just

a lot of leg pulling. The total number of bikes was over 250.It was a short ride from the meeting point through

the Centre of Reading to the local sports ground where approx 5,000 eggs were handed over we then had some well deserved refreshments. Further excitement was provided by Tony’s bike which kept overheating - but we all made it back!

Royal Wedding Run to BrightonThe run to Brighton was to avoid watching the wedding and we thought the roads might be quiet. Maureen took her new bike down and we met the others in Brighton. Mike led the run from The Hawke and covered some lovely twisty minor roads - Jude even got her foot down round one tight bend!. It was dry day and warm. Chris Ward had recommended a nice cafe a

Reading Easter Egg Run

Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Tea dance at the BMF

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Secretary: Big Steve 01274 772970

west YorKshireWell here I am again trying to type a report… what’s been happening up here in Yorkshire… Well the Biggest news for Me & Maria was Maria passing her CBT on the 22nd April with flying colours, she went for a full day and passed so we are now doing up her bike so she can get on the road, we got her a Daelim Road win 125 which was a none runner but after fitting a new coil runs like a good un!

We were asked as a Branch to help out with the Marshalling at the Ride of Honour which was taking place at the same time as the Wotton Basset run, I got a poor response from the Branch (apart from Pockets) so ended up going along with a few from the Northern Cross MCC to support what’s a very good cause and had a great day out.

What else… we went to the Thundersprint at Northwich and had another good day Phil, Clive & Ursula were there and so was the weather so good day, we haven’t had many runs yet but there’s a few coming up so watch the web site for details… Maria & I have a new bike… a Triumph, yes a Triumph you heard… its a Triumph America, we haven’t been far yet but so far so good, don’t worry I still have the CB1000 and the G5 I have just done.

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Remember to stay in touch

with your Branch Secretary

Additional events are arranged and advertised

at Branch meetings, especially those arranged

at short notice - so don’t miss out

Maria organized the Tombola with Sue, Cath and Nelly at Eden Camp and we raised over £200 for our charity, Lister House in Ripon which is a Poppy Home.

We are now looking forward to the 50th Anniversary Show at Boughton House on Sunday the 7th August.A ll the details are on the web site so please try to get down to it, I will be showing the G5 again and it’s looking like it will be a good un…!

If you aint booked for the 50th National Rally - Why Not…?? And if you don’t go then you will miss a great weekend, I was at the 40th and I can tell you they’re well worth going along to…

That’s it, try to get along to a ride and a meeting, the Hitching Post put us some food on now and very nice it is, the Branch is run for you and a lot of work goes into Runs, Reports, Web sites and just day to day stuff so try to get along and show some support. Check out the runs, there’s some good ones coming up so don’t miss them.

In the next Golden Wing there will be a report on our 50th charity weekend run Richard has organised, me & Maria are looking forward to that, thanks to all the people who do come along to meetings and runs without you there wouldn’t be a Branch and thanks to Richard for the runs…

See ya all soon.

Steve & Maria

We are also helping out on the 24th September at the Northern Cross MCC’s Poppy Party where all are welcome to come along I will put all the details on our web site as I get them.

Just to end me & Maria have just been down to the BMF to help out and show the CB250 G5 in the marquee

and we must thank all the Cambridge Branch for making us very welcome, it was nice to meet up with old friends and we had a great time, I got mugged by Jenny as most of the people buying stuff did, but didn’t she do a great job. The cakes were fantastic and as always it was very well organised and after all the work they put in won Best Club Stand so very well done again….

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Well I can’t believe it but all the weekends between the last report and me writing this one, we’ve had pretty decent riding conditions, maybe a little fresh but good and generally

dry, because in early March we had a few of us venture out to our members meet on their bikes and listen to couple of guys from Rospa, which was quite enlightening to what they do, if a little too

laid back with their delivery, which almost lost the impact to the good work they do. Come Sunday 20th which was a week later than planned, it was agreed to do a rideout, again fair weather which improved as the day progressed and so made the trip for Fish ‘n’ chips down to Lyme Regis all the more enjoyable, but I still don’t understand the fascination with going to the seaside with all that salty air.

April was again where on the first Sunday was the Ride for Respect event, held for the charity Help for Heroes, which was the last time it was being held to run from Hullavington airfield and take a route up to and through Wootton Bassett and fortunately the heavens didn’t open until the end of that day’s rideout which finished for our group at George White Superbikes in Swindon, it was great to see so many bikes and good that this year the better

organisation meant the time lapse between signing in and moving off was a lot swifter, but all in all a good day for a worthy cause.

We were back at George Whites for a club week which had been agreed to hold from Monday 4th and finishing on Saturday 9th with us using one of the gazebos. It’s certainly amazing the interest and how some people still think we are part of Honda, but once you explain they recognise the benefits, so I must pass thanks to all who turned up and helped.

We were also lucky in April to have Honda’s PR lady Fiona Cole agree to come over to see us down at the Red Lion for our member’s meet, although trying to confirm proved a little fraught for those that know, as she is very busy, especially at the time with the launch of the new Crossrunner. She certainly provided all the satisfactory answers to the questions put to her and enlightened us to the way in which Honda works as a global organisation, but doesn’t lose sight of how it needs to cater to all ‘home’ markets.

For the rideout that month we had a trip to Stratford upon Avon and again the sun shone, almost unseasonably warm, Robin Williams lead a good route but warned people that the dedicated bike park was quite easy to miss when close to the stopoff, which some nearly did, but otherwise a very pleasant Sunday on good roads.

Secretary: Ian Hammond - 07989 531121

wiltshire

Rally tea stop

Leader of the pack

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Towards the end of April we have the big event of hosting our Spring Rally which this year started on the day the royal wedding was taking place, but that didn’t stop people coming and really enjoying themselves.

Tuesday 10th and considering the time of being an hour and half earlier start, it was well attended, maybe in hope of seeing the elusive Crossrunner, which I get the impression some are looking to evaluate, but no matter Pat and his team certainly were more than happy at being hosts and so we appreciated the efforts of staying open late.

After a hard days ride

All at the Ace

Mad Hatter’s tea party

Another tea stop

We enjoyed the use of a marquee loaned to us this year and many thanks to Simon for organising, but as those that were there know, the winds did pick up a little and on Saturday evening it lost the roof and so it was definately al-fresco, but when the bikes returned after Sundays rideout, the wind had picked up a little more, good for keeping the rain away but finally finished the marquee which was dismantled for safely, but by that time of late afternoon, some had planned to go home and so space wasn’t so critical as we still had both the club gazebos standing, so can vouch they are certainly robust. So thank you to all who came and hope you enjoyed your time with us even with the rescheduled plans that most seemed happy and comfortable with.

Well after that hard work it was only a few days later that we were back at George Whites and having our members meet on

Again we made a decision to postpone the rideout of the 12th to Portland Bill and squeeze it in later in the year if this good weather we have been having holds and so went off a week later to the Ace Cafe for the Honda Day and the sun shone but it was certainly quite gusty as the route is not exactly great biking roads all the way up to the North Circular and can be boring, but none the less a nice day out to see and support Chris and his team.

Our next big challenge is hopefully in the next report will concerning the success of having as many bikes getting to Warwick Castle on June 19th.

So lets hope this nice weather holds and we can lean a little further.

Ian

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members can also post adverts free on the HOC forum www.forum.hoc.org.uk

MEMBERS FREE ADS

advertising in members free ads MEMBERS

free, must state your HOC Membership No.

non members £20 1st insertion -

subsequent free for 1 year (inc. free HOC membership)

Are you selling your bike? Want to get rid of some kit?Too many spares cluttering the garage?

Members can advertise in the Free Ads section of Golden Wing simply be e-mailing [email protected] or writing to

38 Bower Street, Bedford MK40 3RE

FOR SALEA few Pans and Bits1990 Pan, red, £1590. 1992 Pan, red, £2150. 1998 Pan,

green, £2750, 1999 Pan, red, £2500. 2002 Pan, red, £3350. 2002 Pan, blue, £3600. 2003

1300 Pan, silver, £4650.all with service history new MOT and 6 months tax. Various spares too

at very reasonable prices.1987 NT500EF, red, all there,

needs front brake overhall and battery etc £275. 1976 CB750F, Red, £1500. Vetter

fairing and pannier kit for early Wing VGC £500 or best offer.

1981 BMW R100, £1995. 1978 BMW K75, black, £2150. 1985, BMW K100 white, £850. 1987

BMW K75S, green £1995. Suzuki Bergman scooter

400cc, £1500.All open to offers

All the bikes are registered in my name and V5s are present.Contact Douglas Frampton for

[email protected] or phone Kettering (01536)

515573 / 07801 982473 membership number 32024

FOR SALEPan bits

Right Hand Pannier lid for Pan European 1300 Colour red.

Slight damage. £50

Right Hand mirror cover for Pan European 1300 colour

red. Slight Damage.£10

Call Keith [email protected]

membership number 31664

FOR SALE Honda V30 Magna

Genuine 8000 miles, 1984/A, 3 Owners, taxed and MoT’d

£1350 onoContact Barry Davis

(Cambridge) 07916 [email protected]

membership number 30674

Page 121: Golden Wing 2011 Summer

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KicKing BacK...Something to Say - Say it Here

Have your say on any subjecte-mail to [email protected] or write to 38 Bower Street, Bedford MK40 3RE

MEMORIES OF THE CB92Dear Stritchy,

I really enjoyed Dave Barton’s Classic corner in the spring Golden Wing, it brought back many happy memories. I had one of the very first CB92s in the country which I saw on the Maico stand. My pal had a Maico Scooter for work and we were regular visitors to the Maico Head Office.

Loads of Brit bike owners scoffed at my little CB92 Benley Super Sport with it’s pansy electric start. They pretty soon stopped laughing when they found I could see off even 350s on the twisties when I had some decent tyres fitted.

Apart from the Maico, our little group had a Durkop Diana scooter, a Moto Rumi 2 stroke twin, a DKW, a Gilera, an Excelsior 3 cylinder, a Sunbeam, a Vincent 1000 and later a Honda 250 Dream with an American conversion to 305cc, an NSU Super Fox 125 and a Super Max 250. Quite a selection. Happy days.

I’d love to finish my biking days with another CB92 but have never seen one that is affordable or alternatively restorable.

Keep up the good work, I always look forward to the mag, even though I am not an active member, living as I do in France.

Regards

Keith Howlett

ConTribuTors always wanTEd

Perhaps you have been on an adventure, taken part in something a little different or want to show off your bike.

We love to get articles from members, especially with photos.

Keep your text to below 1000 words please and send the best quality photos that you have (web photos are rarely good enough)

Please send to: [email protected]

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The grips are 4.8 inches long to fit a 4.5 inch rotor length, and can be supplied in Black or Silver Grey pairs. Each grip is individually marked with its part number and the genuine ‘Amal’ text.

Pair of Amal Black Handlebar Grips - RKC/590 - Black - £17.99 (inc VAT)

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These products are available from the AMAL website www.amalcarb.co.uk, directly from the AMAL Carburetter Company via telephone on 01722 412500 or by email at [email protected]

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Page 123: Golden Wing 2011 Summer

123SUMMER 2011

NOW AVAILABLE ON DVD

‘I, SUPERBIKER’ MOVIE

Following fantastic reviews, a hugely successful film premier in Leicester Square and sell-out screenings ‘I, Superbiker’ is now available to buy on DVD. ‘I, SUPERBIKER’ , is a no-holds barred full length motorcycling documentary film, directed by Mark Sloper (The Final Cut and Small Time Obsession) in association with the British Superbike Championship and Motorcycle News. With the film score by David Vanian of The Damned and music by Phil Collen of Def Leppard and Man Raze it is definitely a must see. This high-octane documentary is the first of its kind to closely follow the exploits of four motorcycle racers as they compete in the hotly contested MCE Insurance sponsored British Superbike Championship. The film, shot in high definition, takes an intimate look at the two-wheel gladiators as they risk life and limb at each race meeting knowing that there can be only one champion. As well as capturing stunning on-track action, the film goes behind the scenes to follow the unfolding drama among wives, girlfriends, teammates and managers. Everyone wants their rider to win and passions are aroused when things go wrong. One of the four riders featured is the

great British hope, Tommy Hill; having cheated death at the age of 14 Tommy is now fearless and his parents have sacrificed their home, holidays and finances to support his burning ambition to be Britain’s number 1 superbike racer. Tommy commented, “British Superbikes is motorcycle racing at its very best and this film shows that brilliantly. It’s amazing to see BSB on the cinema screen. It’s a massive sport with a great following - now hopefully people who

don’t know it that well can see what an incredible event it is”. Alongside

Tommy Hill, ‘I, Superbiker’ is a revealing portrait of the highs and lows of fellow racers, James Ellison, Josh Brookes and Gary Mason, riding through torturous conditions and risking life and limb at every race meeting. Motorcycle fans and thrill seekers alike will be able to experience the gladiatorial speed, strength and tenacity of the riders as they battle their way through the dramatic 2010 BSB Championship.

EXTRAS include: The Leicester Square Premier; Gary Mason’s Lap of Brands Hatch; James Ellison’s Road to Recovery; Training with Tommy Hill; Josh Brookes is King of the Mountain and Theatrical Trailer.

Running Time approx 100 mins, U Rating, RRP: £19.99

“A gripping film from start to finish”

Paul Hood, The Mirror

Simply answer this question: Which racetrack is hosting

the round 11 of the BSB on September 25th?

Send your answer to: Golden Wing Silverstone Competition, 38 Bower

Street, Bedford MK40 3RE or e-mail [email protected]. Please

include your HOC membership number and address on your entry.

Competition closes on Saturday 10th September

WiN i, SuPERBikER

Page 124: Golden Wing 2011 Summer

124 SUMMER 2011

DUKETT 2011 ON-BIKE LAPS VOLUMES 1 AND 2 RELEASED ON DVD

Duke brings fans eight complete on-board laps of the legendary 37.7-mile Mountain course filmed during the 2011 TT.North One Television’s use of High Definition on-bike cameras ensured the best-ever on-board footage, along with the best-ever sound quality. And the amazingly high standard of riding skill on show ensured some of the most white-knuckle film we’ve ever seen.TT 2011 On-Bike Laps Volumes 1 and 2 puts the viewer at the heart of the action as speeds hit 190mph just inches from walls, houses and hedges.First up on Volume 1 is Keith Amor on his Honda TT Legends Superbike. The forward-facing camera not only gives a rider’s-eye view of the course, but also shows the Scot was travelling in the wheeltracks of teammate and TT legend John McGuinness.Then we move three wheels to share a ride with TT winners Klaus Klaffenbock and Dan Sayle. The forward-facing, low-lying camera lets you share every sensation as the chair smashes over the bumps, and the exceptional sound quality lets you soak up the noise of tyres being punished under breaking and the 600cc Honda engine in the LCR outfit screaming at full revs. Just watch out for the moment around 14-and-a-half minutes in where some Manx wildlife gets too close for comfort to Klaffi and Sayle on this 113.754mph lap!McGuinness is the guide for lap three on Volume 1 and shows just what a 126mph-plus lap of the Mountain looks like! You will marvel at his precision and smooth riding, although the dive through Handley’s will probably have you jumping back from the screen! For the final lap we join Bruce Anstey on the Padgetts Honda Superbike and the rear-facing camera offers a different view of the course as we pound round with the Kiwi. You see Anstey catch, pass and pull away from Amor’s Superbike on what would be Anstey’s fastest-ever lap of the Mountain, an average of 129.695mph around the 37.7-mile course.

All four laps on Volume 2 were filmed during the Dainese Superbike TT, bringing viewers actual racing laps from the Mountain course. We begin with Honda-mounted Cameron Donald as he flashes across the Glencrutchery Road start/finish line into lap four. His run through Kirk Michael, captured by the forward-facing

camera, is truly white-knuckle stuff, averaging 128.714mph for a well-deserved podium place.

Next is McGuinness winning his 16th TT victory. The forward-facing camera lets you share a ‘big bike’ racing lap with the undoubted Superbike master, seeing the smooth style and precise lines which have made McGuinness the man to beat. Anstey is our next guide, his rear-facing camera offering a different view of the TT. He averages a

huge 130.725mph on this lap, which put him in contention for victory – until mechanical gremlins struck on lap three. The footage from his Padgetts Honda machine is breathtaking as he bursts through the countryside – and stomach-churning as he leaps Ballaugh Bridge – you’ll never forget it.Finally on Volume 2 is the heroic Amor who tackled the six-lap Superbike TT – one of the toughest challenges in motorcycle racing – just days after suffering a painful shoulder injury. The forward-facing camera mounted on his Honda TT Legends Superbike for the first lap shows while the Scot may have been lacking strength in his right shoulder, he certainly wasn’t lacking bravery and circulated at an average of 128.182mph.TT 2011 On-Bike Laps Volume 1 and Volume 2 are Out Now on DVD, priced £11.99 each and are available from leading video outlets or direct from Duke Video: Tel 01624 640 000, fax 01624 640 001 or email [email protected]. Visit www.DukeVideo.com online.

Duke offer HOC members a massive 20% discount - quote code 3209

Page 125: Golden Wing 2011 Summer