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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Huzo on February 21, 2021, 06:03:40 PM

Title: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round…)….Again…
Post by: Huzo on February 21, 2021, 06:03:40 PM
Well, the die is cast..
Today I spent the first $’s on the little CT110 for my Cape to Cape trip. I got a tank from an XR 250 Honda which holds a massive 12 litres, coupled with the 5 litres under my arse, should give me loads of range.
I haven’t mounted it yet and it sits further forward than in the shot, but this is it..

(https://i.ibb.co/WkF9yQG/3-D939-FA4-FBF5-4-C77-A547-DC94-CD402761.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WkF9yQG)

The idea is to go from Cape Otway which is the Southernmost point of mainland Australia to Cape York, the Northernmost point...(and back).
Actually I think Wilson’s Promontary is marginally further South, but it doesn’t start with “Cape” so it’s not in the picture.
Here’s the route..

(https://i.ibb.co/LJrZ0BC/47857-B6-E-1-DE3-4011-8419-2-CE91708-FECB.png) (https://ibb.co/LJrZ0BC)

It’s a quiet 8,000 k’s normally you’d think that was a fair ride, but the distance stomping ability of a bog standard CT110 cannot be overestimated.
All seems a bit easy really... :rolleyes:
Now guys, if you are not interested, don’t open the thread... It’s not intended to seek advice or debate the worth of such a venture, but I will document it over the journey through the preparation and ride, until it goes back into the shed at home..
Stand by.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Ncdan on February 21, 2021, 06:21:56 PM
What an adventure! Id love to go with you!
Post every night with pictures.
Are you going alone?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: cliffrod on February 21, 2021, 06:36:54 PM
Very cool.  I'll be watching.  And i want to be the first to ask-

Cape to Cape like a super trip on a super machine that will be a super adventure. Will you wear a cape, at least for a couple of pics- especially at the end?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 21, 2021, 06:42:42 PM
What an adventure! I love you go with you!
Post every night with pictures.
Are you going alone?
Yes Dan but you are never really alone, it’s just that most of the time no one is with you.
However, the culture up there is to look out for each other. I’ve been asked about river crossings. “What will you do if the water is too deep..?”
Well, if it’s 6” deep I’ll ride through it..
Then , if it’s 6’ deep I’ll get on the ferry like everyone else.
If it’s 2’6” deep, I’ll stand there until the Toyota Land Cruiser rocks up after 5 minutes with the four young station hands on board with arms like my upper thigh and they’ll say...
“G’day old fella’ are ya’ ok ?”
I’ll say...
“I’m trying to get my bike across”
They’ll say...
“Nah bullshit stand back mate, me and the boys’ll do it, c’mon youse pricks...”
Then they’ll pick it up and carry it across....
That’s how they roll up there.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 21, 2021, 06:47:03 PM
Very cool.  I'll be watching.  And i want to be the first to ask-

Cape to Cape like a super trip on a super machine that will be a super adventure. Will you wear a cape, at least for a couple of pics- especially at the end?
Hell yeah...!
A bright red cape with silver stars emblazoned is de rigeur for such groundbreaking missions... :thumb: :bike-037:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: stubbie on February 21, 2021, 06:58:52 PM
Bit of a slip of the pen there NCdan?

What an adventure! "I love you" go with you!
Post every night with pictures.
Are you going alone?
 
If someone can ride one of those things from Sydney to London, I'm sure it will make the Cape to Cape. Happy Trails.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Ncdan on February 21, 2021, 07:28:59 PM
Hell yeah...!
A bright red cape with silver stars emblazoned is de rigeur for such groundbreaking missions... :thumb: :bike-037:
R u riding back also?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Canuck750 on February 21, 2021, 08:36:30 PM
Looks like a great trip and a fine choice for bike! what's not to like about this. No need to explain any of your plans to me, just do it!

I am thinking of heading back north to the artcic ocean on my KLR 650 this spring as soon as I know the road past Dawson City is free of ice and snow, probably June.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Scout63 on February 21, 2021, 09:39:00 PM
This could be the best thread of the year Huzo.  Please share every detail.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: ozarquebus on February 22, 2021, 12:52:27 AM
Great Sport!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 22, 2021, 03:00:19 AM
Are you going alone?
 
Yes mate, alone.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 22, 2021, 03:18:27 AM
I have to be back home for a shoulder operation by June 4.
I have allowed 4 weeks up and back, so to be home by June 1, I’ll need to be off by May 1.
Now there’ll be a bit of work for the prep.
Unit to step from 6V up to 12 V, so I can charge GPS, i pad and ‘phone on the run.
Some spares..
Some spare brake levers..(no clutch..)
Spare chain
Tubes
One 2” x 4” mirror to check that my hair is nicely combed for the waiting media.....And that’s it....!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: balvenie on February 22, 2021, 03:27:10 AM
What a Challenge!
Good luck Huzo :grin: :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 22, 2021, 05:14:01 AM
What a Challenge!
Good luck Huzo :grin: :thumb:
It’s a funny thing, but the road I’ll be taking for a large part is the Newell Hwy. Even sitting up in a 65 tonne, 26 metre long, 600 horsepower rig on 34 wheels, this road seems long..
Actually..
There’s not a lot of difference really. In the right light, you’d hardly tell them apart.

(https://i.ibb.co/WKC99ZV/7613-A4-E4-61-E7-41-EC-90-C1-58-C43-A4321-B3.png) (https://ibb.co/WKC99ZV)

(https://i.ibb.co/zHYNt0h/C1069-F00-E8-E5-4912-A094-42-F86-D776-A29.png) (https://ibb.co/zHYNt0h)


(https://i.ibb.co/c2vPPT2/8-EEF52-FF-A3-E6-4102-86-C7-05-CDCFCD16-C4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/c2vPPT2)

I’m sure there’ll be plenty of time for thinking on the speeding 110...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Sasquatch Jim on February 22, 2021, 05:48:31 AM
I would have put the big tank on a Van van. The big tires give more comfort and fool injection better running for altitude changes.
 But as is it should be a good adventure.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 22, 2021, 06:01:09 AM
I would have put the big tank on a Van van. The big tires give more comfort and fool injection better running for altitude changes.
 But as is it should be a good adventure.
I don’t want it comfortable Sas.
Also, there are not a lot of altitude changes in Australia West of the Divide.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: chuck peterson on February 22, 2021, 06:42:10 AM
What perfect madness! Send photos..

Love the Lime Green bags on the red..maybe some metal flake purple to go with?

Here in the USA, Randy Teff rode a Rokon coast to coast for Wounded Warriors. At a max speed of 35mph, its a whole different world.

I’m jealous..have fun
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 22, 2021, 06:45:39 AM
I would have put the big tank on a Van van. The big tires give more comfort and fool injection better running for altitude changes.
 But as is it should be a good adventure.
Problem is mate I don’t own a Van Van, but I’ve got one of these in the back of the shed.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 22, 2021, 06:48:57 AM
What perfect madness! Send photos..

Love the Lime Green bags on the red..maybe some metal flake purple to go with?

Here in the USA, Randy Teff rode a Rokon coast to coast for Wounded Warriors. At a max speed of 35mph, its a whole different world.

I’m jealous..have fun
Yeah Chuck.
I like to think I’ve always carried myself with a quiet dignity. This livery speaks volumes I think for my desire to keep a low profile and eschew self promotion.... :rolleyes: :popcorn:
(The opposite is of course true, I’m aware of my own shortcomings..).
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Ncdan on February 22, 2021, 09:36:29 AM
Our buddy from down under is blessed with an adventurous spirit and determination that we all should be envious of. Common sense is a virtue that sometimes is ok to overlook and put aside. After a man has worked all his life, raised a family and accomplish everything that society expects of him and after all that is accomplished can be left with the feeling that there is nothing left to live for. Sometimes I find myself at that place in my life. Watching guys attack an, on its face, seemingly near impossible feat like Pete’s adventure, is the very fuel that has ran mankind since the dawning  of our civilization.
Hats off to you my friend, let her rip!!!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: fotoguzzi on February 22, 2021, 10:11:23 AM
Awesome trip! Nice set up.. Check tire pressure often, you wouldn't want to have a blow out.
Are you camping or motel/hotel at night?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 22, 2021, 10:20:02 AM
Awesome trip! Nice set up.. Check tire pressure often, you wouldn't want to have a blow out.
Are you camping or motel/hotel at night?
It will depend on where I am and the hazards that exist.
Sometimes I find that it’s just a good idea to room it.
Unsavoury surrounds...(crocodiles, thieves general sense of unease...)
Stopped too close to night
Can’t be bothered with a tent
Want/need proper shower
Weather
And such..
History shows that about 70% of the time it’s camp.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Cam3512 on February 22, 2021, 10:39:32 AM
Always a bigger challenge to do something like this on a small bike.  And more interesting. 

Respect.

Cam
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Roebling3 on February 22, 2021, 12:12:54 PM
Handling (suspension, steering, stopping), as you know, will vary greatly relative to the amount of fuel your carrying at any given time.
Be well, Huzo.  Good fortune,   R3~
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 24, 2021, 01:20:39 AM
I bought one of these things.

(https://i.ibb.co/ph89h3r/173-C51-B7-1-A15-4199-9-C28-51-CEB11361-CD.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ph89h3r)

It takes 6V in and can be adjusted by a trim pot to supply 12V. That 12 V will be fed into a standard fare type socket .
It will be used with engine on, to charge the GPS, ‘phone and i pad.
I’m just getting the Norge off the lift and then up goes the Honda.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: tris on February 24, 2021, 01:32:56 AM
If you cant make it to Mandello in 2021, then this seems an entirely suitable alternative challenge

Bravo and good luck
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on February 24, 2021, 01:55:16 AM
Handling (suspension, steering, stopping), as you know, will vary greatly relative to the amount of fuel your carrying at any given time.
Be well, Huzo.  Good fortune,   R3~
All my working life from ‘78 to 2013 was as a postie. We had CT90’s from 1978 to 1980 then CT110’s through till today.
I left in 2013.
Fully loaded they would have the panniers loaded with up to 40 kg and 20 or so on the back rack in a specially built basket. They don’t seem to act all that differently, at least not dramatically so.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 24, 2021, 02:00:54 AM
If you cant make it to Mandello in 2021, then this seems an entirely suitable alternative challenge

Bravo and good luck
Yes Tris. That’s the form it’s beginning to take in my mind also. I sort of hope the whole thing is postponed until 2022. Wouldn’t it be just like the Italians to have the 100 th at 101.
I’ll get back then if it’s on.
Actually Ncdan has made me an awwffer I can’t refuse, so thinking to ship the Norge to U.K. as usual, tour for 5 weeks then fly it to the East Coast of the U.S.
Tour around there and leave it at the depot in the U.S. for shipping home.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: tazio on February 24, 2021, 05:29:09 AM
Ok. You've got a screw (or two) loose, or the biggest set of nads this side of Godzilla. I'm betting on the latter..
Love hearing a story when someone "goes for it".
Unsolicited prep advice: maybe bring a spoke wrench?

..will be following your adventure!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 24, 2021, 06:06:09 AM
Ok. You've got a screw (or two) loose, or the biggest set of nads this side of Godzilla. I'm betting on the latter..
Love hearing a story when someone "goes for it".
Unsolicited prep advice: maybe bring a spoke wrench?

..will be following your adventure!
The theory that says I have a screw loose is gaining momentum, but if I may apply the hand brake to that speeding train for just a moment.
What are the REAL barriers to this venture ?
The only differences that I see in doing this on a CT110 versus a KTM1190 are these..
#1
On the big bike you can carry more gear to offset some of the difficulties that motorcycle touring brings, but the size of the bike begins to attract issues of it’s own.
#2
If you start off on the KTM 1190 and do 7 seat hours, you’ll stop and get off on a patch of dirt.
If you start off on the CT110 and do the 7 seat hours, you’ll stop and get off on a patch of dirt.
The eagle eyed among you will notice a subtle similarity. The difference is, on the little bike, you’ll do it for an extra 3 days.
Now, I’m no Professor Brian Cox but if my math is correct, that equates to an extra 3 days in paradise each way...
Can someone point out where the bad bit is ? :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn:
BTW
Here’s a video of my partner Ann, riding the unregistered beast home from my storage shed to start the prep.
https://youtu.be/14CfdjyXIFU
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Ncdan on February 24, 2021, 08:08:30 AM
Bit of a slip of the pen there NCdan?

What an adventure! "I love you" go with you!
Post every night with pictures.
Are you going alone?
 
If someone can ride one of those things from Sydney to London, I'm sure it will make the Cape to Cape. Happy Trails.
Lmbo Stubbie I just caught that and yes it was definitely the reason one should proofread read what they type prior to hitting the SEND button! Well I must admin ole Pete is  a lovable guy, (meant in the proper way)👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Ncdan on February 24, 2021, 08:17:15 AM
The theory that says I have a screw loose is gaining momentum, but if I may apply the hand brake to that speeding train for just a moment.
What are the REAL barriers to this venture ?
The only differences that I see in doing this on a CT110 versus a KTM1190 are these..
#1
On the big bike you can carry more gear to offset some of the difficulties that motorcycle touring brings, but the size of the bike begins to attract issues of it’s own.
#2
If you start off on the KTM 1190 and do 7 seat hours, you’ll stop and get off on a patch of dirt.
If you start off on the CT110 and do the 7 seat hours, you’ll stop and get off on a patch of dirt.
The eagle eyed among you will notice a subtle similarity. The difference is, on the little bike, you’ll do it for an extra 3 days.
Now, I’m no Professor Brian Cox but if my math is correct, that equates to an extra 3 days in paradise each way...
Can someone point out where the bad bit is ? :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn:
BTW
Here’s a video of my partner Ann, riding the unregistered beast home from my storage shed to start the prep.
https://youtu.be/14CfdjyXIFU
I almost spit my coffee out in horror when she met those cars while riding on the wrong side of the road! Then it dawned on me you guys do it that way. If I ever get to visit with you and ride, please don’t let me lead😂
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Roebling3 on February 24, 2021, 12:32:58 PM
 Begging everyone's pardon - not totally askew, but.

I'd enjoy knowing the 'Hammer' and drive line in your rig? Fuel mileage - how many gallons carried? Average speed? How often you stop, for a break.
Given the 'hazards by wildlife', might you care to comment. 

I've pulled some doubles, (tandem tanks w/dolly converters), but mostly 6 axles . Your set-up has got to be a bitch in a cross wind.

     Safe Travels,  R3~ 
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 24, 2021, 01:23:10 PM
Begging everyone's pardon - not totally askew, but.

I'd enjoy knowing the 'Hammer' and drive line in your rig? Fuel mileage - how many gallons carried? Average speed? How often you stop, for a break.
Given the 'hazards by wildlife', might you care to comment. 

I've pulled some doubles, (tandem tanks w/dolly converters), but mostly 6 axles . Your set-up has got to be a bitch in a cross wind.

     Safe Travels,  R3~
That particular one is Western Star...(usually in a Kenworth)
600 hp 6 cylinder, 13 litre turbo diesel.
16 forward gear manual Eaton Fuller Road Ranger gearbox.
Max allowable weight 65.5 tonne
Max length 26.5 metres
Approx 1,600 litres carried, safe range 2,000 km depending on load and topography
Mandatory breaks are..
Min. 15 minutes in 5 12 hrs. work
Min. 30 minutes in 8 hrs. work
Min. 60 mintes in 11 hrs work
Max 12 hrs. in ANY 24 hr period
Min 7 hrs. unbroken rest in ANY 24 hr period
Speed limited to 100 kph.. :wink:
B Doubles are better than semi’s in cross winds. The swaying of one the trailer in cross wind, is damped out to some degree by the other...(some “countersteering” involved... :evil:)
Wildlife...? Unavoidable...(hit them.. :sad:)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Glawster on February 24, 2021, 01:35:53 PM
It sounds like a marvelous trip Peter.  I look forward to following it.  Take care my friend.
Derek
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 24, 2021, 01:44:09 PM
It sounds like a marvelous trip Peter.  I look forward to following it.  Take care my friend.
Derek
Thank you Derek and all the previous supporting comments, not one dissenting view... :bow: :thumb:
If I was keen before, I certainly am now.
I’m committed..(or at least I should be..)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 27, 2021, 04:15:11 AM
Tank has been fitted properly, but I find I need a new tap. The main and reserve on the under seat tank have been spliced into one and fed into the tap.
The top tank will go into the other input on the tap.
One will have to be careful when filling up, because if the tap on the under seat tank is left on, the main tank will siphon into it and overflow...!
But anyway here is the progress so far..
(https://i.ibb.co/brVRZLm/14539-D48-E8-C3-46-BF-BB03-EBD37-BC8-D7-B2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/brVRZLm)

(https://i.ibb.co/fHDB7P5/E515-E9-ED-C111-4-EA5-B95-B-537810-ABF695.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fHDB7P5)

(https://i.ibb.co/zZbR5pW/71-DD0-F10-0592-442-F-A2-A0-B3836-FDE98-C3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/zZbR5pW)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Texas Turnip on February 27, 2021, 05:53:39 AM
Huzo,
Nice powerful looking truck you drove. I started in the 60's driving a Mack with two sticks, 5 and 2, hauling cattle. I think I made a nickel a mile and it took all day and part of the night to get 500 miles. Then hauled rock with a Mack with 5 X4 trans with a 211hp.
The old joke was going up hill we'd walk in front of the Mack with a can of Alpo enticing the bulldog to make it up the hill.

Good luck on your Cape to Cape. I know you'll do it unlike so many that I call "goona do". All talk and no miles!.

Tex
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 27, 2021, 06:46:03 AM
Huzo,
Nice powerful looking truck you drove. I started in the 60's driving a Mack with two sticks, 5 and 2, hauling cattle. I think I made a nickel a mile and it took all day and part of the night to get 500 miles. Then hauled rock with a Mack with 5 X4 trans with a 211hp.
The old joke was going up hill we'd walk in front of the Mack with a can of Alpo enticing the bulldog to make it up the hill.

Good luck on your Cape to Cape. I know you'll do it unlike so many that I call "goona do". All talk and no miles!.

Tex
A serious and sincere thankyou Tex.
You carry a fair bit of cred. in the eyes of people who know you and it is generally accepted that you are not a bullshit artist.
So if you’re taking me seriously, I feel more confident that I am not completely full of crap.... :bow: :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Griso8V on February 27, 2021, 05:29:15 PM
Have a safe and fun trip!  I would love to be able to that.  I keep thinking that one day I would love to drive through Australia; I would have to drive since my lovely wife will not get on a motorcycle...
Keep us posted and send pics!
Good on you!
Tony
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 27, 2021, 06:06:29 PM
Have a safe and fun trip!  I would love to be able to that.  I keep thinking that one day I would love to drive through Australia; I would have to drive since my lovely wife will not get on a motorcycle...
Keep us posted and send pics!
Good on you!
Tony
There’ll be photo’s, blogs and Go Pro.
Not to mention the odd humorous anecdote...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: reidy on February 27, 2021, 06:17:26 PM
Huzo

If you make good time on the way up you could consider coming home via Cape Byron. That way you will have three of the four points done. Then when you have a free couple of weeks you can duck across to the north west cape and complete the set  :laugh:.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 27, 2021, 06:33:49 PM
Huzo

If you make good time on the way up you could consider coming home via Cape Byron. That way you will have three of the four points done. Then when you have a free couple of weeks you can duck across to the north west cape and complete the set  :laugh:.

Steve
Do you reckon I could...?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: reidy on February 27, 2021, 06:51:58 PM
If you start off on the KTM 1190 and do 7 seat hours, you’ll stop and get off on a patch of dirt.
If you start off on the CT110 and do the 7 seat hours, you’ll stop and get off on a patch of dirt.

The above quote shows that you have discovered something about life that so many of us, including me, struggle with.
That is to live in the moment. Why should we rush through life trying to finish it by smoko.

Do you reckon I could...?

By the map it will add an extra 600 clicks or so. For me I try not to do the same road if I can. It gives me more variety. If you want to and it is something you would enjoy there is no reason why you could not do it. If you find the run up the hill is not doing it for you just ship the bike home.

If you get any critics you will find that they only normally ride to the local coffee shop. This is your journey and I am envious. It is easy to come up with a list of excuses why I could not do it.

Steve   
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Muzz on February 27, 2021, 07:06:05 PM
Well, this should be a good read coming up Peter.

Safe travels.  I suspect many will be following your trip with interest. :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: elrealistico on February 27, 2021, 07:25:59 PM
One day I'll do a long solo trip--when my working days are over, in a few (3-ish) years. I am fascinated with those panniers though, did you make them or buy  them?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: redhawk47 on February 27, 2021, 10:57:51 PM
I almost spit my coffee out in horror when she met those cars while riding on the wrong side of the road! Then it dawned on me you guys do it that way. If I ever get to visit with you and ride, please don’t let me lead😂
Same here. Every time a car came around a corner.
That looks like a nice place to live, with all that greenery.

Dan
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 27, 2021, 11:41:24 PM
One day I'll do a long solo trip--when my working days are over, in a few (3-ish) years. I am fascinated with those panniers though, did you make them or buy  them?
They were a legitimate purchase from the same manufacturer that makes them for Australia Post.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 28, 2021, 05:27:57 AM
I had planned to leave on or about April 21.
This would have given me 5 weeks to do the trip, given that I have to be back by June 1 to go in for my shoulder surgery. Travelling in the latter part of April and into June is less than ideal from the point of view of the wet season.
It may be a better idea to take longer with the prep, and leave after the shoulder surgery.
I’m not looking forward to the shoulder job..(now if it had been on my head... :wink:).
Anyway....
Convalescing for 4 weeks in June and departing July 1, would mean I’d be travelling in the ideal part of the year and the rivers would be at their lowest, also I would not be operating up against a return deadline... :clock:
It irks me a bit  to set the departure back and have the start further away, but I think it will pay dividends.
Today after a bit of a thrash fest on the V85, I pulled the brakes out of the Honda and put the shoes over the wire brush and cleaned/greased the pivot points on the backing plate.
The sprockets and chain have gone in the bin and new ones are going on. I notice that the little bike is pulling a 15 tooth front sprocket whereas standard is 14. I’ll go with that as a replacement but no bigger.
Front tyre is ok but it’ll be getting a new rear, both will be coming off in Cairns to be replaced by semi knobby types.
The existing front tyre will be ok to get to Cairns, it’s only 3,000 k.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Dave Swanson on February 28, 2021, 06:41:56 AM
Option 2 sounds like a sound plan Huzo.   I am certainly looking forward to the recount of the trip! 
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Guzzi Gal on February 28, 2021, 08:26:44 AM
Dang, that sounds fun! :bow: I'm jealous of your ability to go off and ride wherever your heart desires. If I were Ann, I'd be asking where my little zip-zip was. How long was the ride home in for her in that video you posted? The area looked lovely with all the trees and twisties, and I could almost smell the eucalyptus.
 
We have two friends (not a couple, much to his chagrin) who went on a month long national and state park tour of Arizona and Utah, this last summer, on their Vespas. Her bike preformed superbly, whilst his was a turd (still is), and both were fresh off the showroom floor. When looking through the beautiful photo album he made for her, how I wish my Hubs and I could have gone when they suggested it. Alas, we have three kids still at home. :tongue:
 
We'll require you to use WG as your pre-ride and ride diary. Once you're on the road, if you skip a day and there will be hell to pay! :thewife: When you're all done, post a highlight video for our enjoyment.
:bike-037:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: leroy_can on February 28, 2021, 09:55:35 AM
 Gotta say I'm impressed with your adventure and agree option 2 has merits. You must have some serious miles or these bikes with your mail route, it's good to be so familiar with your ride. Your comment " stopped to close to night " resonates with me. Camping after dark can have you waking to surprises. 40+years ago me and my girlfriend took a trip to California far to late in the season so we trucked the bike as far as Nebraska where a young guy let us leave the truck. While still in the truck in the Black Hills of South Dakota we pulled into a campground in the dark but it was closed for the season. The washrooms were open and had power so we decided we would camp and if the owners showed up we could pay whatever the fee was. There were several "mounds" scattered thru the main camping area and we agreed on a spot. I started the truck to drive to the spot and my girlfriend said "That mound is a sleeping buffalo". Needless to say we sprung for a motel that night.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 28, 2021, 12:28:48 PM
 :grin:
Gotta say I'm impressed with your adventure and agree option 2 has merits. You must have some serious miles or these bikes with your mail route, it's good to be so familiar with your ride. Your comment " stopped to close to night " resonates with me. Camping after dark can have you waking to surprises. 40+years ago me and my girlfriend took a trip to California far to late in the season so we trucked the bike as far as Nebraska where a young guy let us leave the truck. While still in the truck in the Black Hills of South Dakota we pulled into a campground in the dark but it was closed for the season. The washrooms were open and had power so we decided we would camp and if the owners showed up we could pay whatever the fee was. There were several "mounds" scattered thru the main camping area and we agreed on a spot. I started the truck to drive to the spot and my girlfriend said "That mound is a sleeping buffalo". Needless to say we sprung for a motel that night.
:grin: :grin:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on February 28, 2021, 12:52:22 PM
Dang, that sounds fun! :bow: I'm jealous of your ability to go off and ride wherever your heart desires. If I were Ann, I'd be asking where my little zip-zip was. How long was the ride home in for her in that video you posted? The area looked lovely with all the trees and twisties, and I could almost smell the eucalyptus.
 
We have two friends (not a couple, much to his chagrin) who went on a month long national and state park tour of Arizona and Utah, this last summer, on their Vespas. Her bike preformed superbly, whilst his was a turd (still is), and both were fresh off the showroom floor. When looking through the beautiful photo album he made for her, how I wish my Hubs and I could have gone when they suggested it. Alas, we have three kids still at home. :tongue:
 
We'll require you to use WG as your pre-ride and ride diary. Once you're on the road, if you skip a day and there will be hell to pay! :thewife: When you're all done, post a highlight video for our enjoyment.
:bike-037:
Thanks GG.
Did you like the photo I took of the sign outside your B&B...?

(https://i.ibb.co/k8pYH22/861-EA24-E-D094-4743-A45-F-051-D10-D1-B3-F2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/k8pYH22)

Considering the bike is currently unregistered, it seemed like a long way... :copcar:
In reality, about 30 km. That section is about 3 minutes from home and yes, the smell of eucalyptus is very strong. The place is called Koala Park and is aptly named.
The time when you can leave your kids home alone is speeding towards you, keep the desire and be ready when the time comes. I reckon it’s a bit like looking at something a long way ahead like a mountain, it seems to just sit there and never get any closer and just when you feel like you’re not getting anywhere...?
BANG...!
It’s at your doorstep.
Time is like distance, the rate at which it approaches feels exponential, the closer it gets the faster it appears. Before you know it the kids’ll be saying to you and Hubs...”Get on your bikes and get to buggery, we’re sick of you both under our feet....”
Stay happy, healthy and keen... :thumb:
BTW..
Last night I was talking to Serena Powis in London and she was saying that they were visiting a certain Nathan Millward, who just happens to be the bloke who decided..
 ON FOUR DAYS NOTICE...!
To ride his CT110 exactly the same as mine, home to London from Sydney. To me that beggars belief, but it’s an indisputable documented fact.. he now runs organised CT 110 postie bike tours and rides the same bike around in North Devon where he lives.
The beaut thing about his epic is that he was nervous, unsure, unprepared, underprepared and clueless as to what he was about to do, but just got on the bike wearing an open face helmet, old coat, welders gloves ,rubber boots and just said **** it..!
I’m going.
The lovely thing is too, that he didn’t claim it gave him any insight into the meaning of life or anything so hedonistic, he just said that it was a bloody long way and riding into London at the end of it all, you realise that you still get abused for not giving way...
You’re nothing special.. Sort of puts it all back into perspective..
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: pete mcgee on March 01, 2021, 02:30:37 PM
Peter,
Get yourself a portable battery bank, 15000mah for charging phones,tablets etc, charge it while you are riding.
Mobil phone, who are you with? I found on my trip to NT via nth QLD that optus has snuck into a lot of smaller communities, Telstra isnt always available, neither work well 30 mins out of town, get a phone  that can handle 2 sims, one of each.
Pick up an epirb or other gps beacon just in case, because mobils are a paperweight out of town.
Fit a throttle lock, its nice to be able to get feeling back into your throttle hand every now and then.
Carry at least 6 litres of water.
Get off the road by 4 pm (roo oclock).
Enjoy, sounds like an epic trip.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 01, 2021, 02:58:01 PM
Peter,
Get yourself a portable battery bank, 15000mah for charging phones,tablets etc, charge it while you are riding.
Mobil phone, who are you with? I found on my trip to NT via nth QLD that optus has snuck into a lot of smaller communities, Telstra isnt always available, neither work well 30 mins out of town, get a phone  that can handle 2 sims, one of each.
Pick up an epirb or other gps beacon just in case, because mobils are a paperweight out of town.
Fit a throttle lock, its nice to be able to get feeling back into your throttle hand every now and then.
Carry at least 6 litres of water.
Get off the road by 4 pm (roo oclock).
Enjoy, sounds like an epic trip.
Here’s a funny thing about all this Pete..
When I’m in Europe on my Norge, I tend to carry everything I can to forestall the possibility of being stuck or inconvenienced and that philosophy has served me well over the years.
This one “feels” different though..
I admit that I don’t relish the thought of being stuck somewhere, but being on a relatively minuscule bike with comparatively small amount of gear, I am not gripped with the gnawing gut feeling that if something goes wrong, I am in a world of trouble..
Also, I have to be mindful of the carrying capacity from a weight and space perspective. I can fully envisage that at some point, the bike will be in a trailer being ferried into town, or secreted behind someone’s shop while I wait for some part to be delivered.
As for the charge thing..
The small voltage converter allows me access to full time 12V supply, so I can have the i pad at 100% continually.
On this trip I don’t really need a GPS, you simply cannot get lost. The route to Cairns is very straightforward and there  are only two ways to get to Cape York from there.
I have done it in my 4WD Hilux.
The GPS is primarily to give distance information to overnight stops. Right now I am with Optus, but I like the idea of a Telstra sim as you suggest. As I mentioned earlier, I want this trip to be stripped back to basics as much as possible.

Update..
Yesterday I fitted a new o ring chain and sprockets and a rear tyre, $47 for a new Michelin was a nice change..
It will be coming off along with the front one in Cairns which is “only” 3,000 k’s. The dirt tyres are going on from there. I pulled the brakes out, wire brushed the shoes and roughed up the drum a bit, also greased the pivot spindles.
The front sprocket options for the CT are 14 or 15, trying to adapt taller gearing for lower rev’s is BS...
Oh BTW.
I had a long phone conversation with another old WG member who is gearing up to rendezvous somewhere along the track for the trip..
Whoops..I almost forgot to mention his name..Oh sorry no I didn’t forget but I’ll bet y’all can’t guess, I’ll leave my PR department to field the calls, his mechanical skills will be invaluable... :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn:
Can’t say too much, details are sketchy as we go to press...(you know what paparazzi can be like... :wink:)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Blue Mountains 57 on March 02, 2021, 02:43:10 AM
I can't believe no-one commented on the song playing on your video, The Orange and the Green!!! I haven't heard that for about 40 years!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 02, 2021, 04:09:48 AM
I can't believe no-one commented on the song playing on your video, The Orange and the Green!!! I haven't heard that for about 40 years!
That is on a CD I burned for Ann, the girl on the Honda.
Her parents are Irish.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Jorg66 on March 02, 2021, 12:46:51 PM
'Alone' [never realley alone is good] totally dig it ,but have to admit for me Alone with my BEST Sozia of all ,is very prime aswell.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 02, 2021, 01:42:20 PM
'Alone' [never realley alone is good] totally dig it ,but have to admit for me Alone with my BEST Sozia of all ,is very prime aswell.
Some people live in the city and are still alone.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 03, 2021, 12:28:10 AM
Gotta say I'm impressed with your adventure and agree option 2 has merits. You must have some serious miles or these bikes with your mail route, it's good to be so familiar with your ride.
Once upon a time in a previous life, as you know I was a postie. One day at work it was decided that we should calculate how many k’s we’d  done on these things.
I started in May ‘78 and ended in June 2013, so that’s 35 years.
Now...40 km per day x 5 days per week x 48 weeks per year x 35 years = Ummmm....(a lot..)
That’s of course not counting overtime...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: pete mcgee on March 03, 2021, 05:11:03 AM
336,000km not counting overtime.
336,000, thats what Ive done on my lemans 3.
You hard arse you.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 03, 2021, 06:18:24 AM
336,000km not counting overtime.
336,000, thats what Ive done on my lemans 3.
You hard arse you.
Well possibly Pete.
Posties mostly operate on footpaths in first and second gear at 0-15 kph.
 336,000 k doesn’t sound much, only about 9 times around the world...
Anywayyy..
In the interests of keeping the info on the prep up to date. Today I fitted a crash bar, but my 15 tooth front sprocket hasn’t arrived so I can’t fit the chain, maybe tomorrow.
Here’s a funny thing though.
The lines from the standard tank are dedicated one for normal and one for reserve, when the tap is “off”, the two lines are communicated which is not a problem......(normally..) :rolleyes:
However here’s the thing..
I have fitted a 13 litre tank onto the bike as you see.

(https://i.ibb.co/2jcmvpJ/E775032-E-EA12-4-A59-8340-E2-FAC4-B9-B94-D.jpg) (https://ibb.co/2jcmvpJ)

When you refill you have to have the taps in the correct configuration, or the top 13 litre tank will empty into the bottom 5 litre tank... :sad:
The good news is that with 18 litres on board I’ll possibly go all day on full tanks, so I only have to monitor the situation once a day.. :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Jorg66 on March 03, 2021, 10:48:53 AM
Clever ! :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: PJPR01 on March 03, 2021, 11:49:42 AM
There must be something special about Cairns...

I had a Land Rover in Cairns Blue for 12 years before selling it to a friend a few years, ago, was a lovely blue (not quite the same as the Norwegian Blue plumage of a dead parrot...but close!)  :thumb: :thumb:

Definitely share lots of pics from this wonderful adventure, even ones that seem "normal" to you, will be entertaining for those of us not used to the terrain.

All the best on the shoulder surgery, stay away from the ping pong table for a while to let it rest up!

Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 07, 2021, 11:02:45 PM
 :embarrassed: :embarrassed: :embarrassed:
I spent a fair bit of time researching a suitable unit to step the 6V system on the CT110 up to 12V so as to be able to charge everything on the run...
Good so far.
So 33 odd dollars later I’d finished the purchase on e bay for a lovely simple unit to do the job.

(https://i.ibb.co/59xN7g9/5300-A736-3983-42-EF-A0-CB-45-FE6888-E956.png) (https://ibb.co/59xN7g9)

I thought I’d check the state of the battery before tucking it away and whacked the multimeter on it to see how close to 6V it was.
Turns out it was a long way off 6V....6.5V off to be exact, the darn thing is a 12V system..... :rolleyes: :embarrassed: :embarrassed:
Welllallrrrighhhtyy y then...... :bike-037:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Muzz on March 08, 2021, 02:29:37 AM
Huzo, the son has one of those 50cc mini choppers.  I was given the job of getting it running.  Turned out it has a 110cc Chinese knockoff engines it it, fitted with the most outlandish electrical system ever.  I ended up getting a new flywheel with of course new magnets, a new 6 pole coil  set of charging coils with hall effect sensor, and a full wave 12 volt rectifier.  I think the whole lot came to a bit over $40NZ.  A lot came from Thumpster, don't know whether you have them in Oz.  Also fitted a new 12v electric start.

The spark would blow the head off an elephant at 20 paces and there are no problems with a flat battery.

Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 08, 2021, 03:38:14 AM
Huzo, the son has one of those 50cc mini choppers.  I was given the job of getting it running.  Turned out it has a 110cc Chinese knockoff engines it it, fitted with the most outlandish electrical system ever.  I ended up getting a new flywheel with of course new magnets, a new 6 pole coil  set of charging coils with hall effect sensor, and a full wave 12 volt rectifier.  I think the whole lot came to a bit over $40NZ.  A lot came from Thumpster, don't know whether you have them in Oz.  Also fitted a new 12v electric start.

The spark would blow the head off an elephant at 20 paces and there are no problems with a flat battery.
The whole thing is Muzz that all along it was a 12 volt system and all the buggerising around wasn’t necessary.
Just part of the journey I guess..
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 12, 2021, 04:37:31 AM
Well, I’m at the stage that if I loaded the bike with the gear and provisions that I intend to take, I could be gone in a couple of days.
I think the Honda is basically ready..
I must admit, I am considering lifting the head and cleaning the piston crown. In a previous life, these things would begin to pre ignite under sustained load, the symptoms felt exactly like the motor was seizing or running out of fuel, but rolling back the throttle would restore some performance.
The point was that there was an excess of carbon on the piston crown and removing it would solve the problem and the bike went a bit better.
I really think I should.
Anyway, here’s the finished article...
(https://i.ibb.co/pwG20XK/5-A6-BFE9-F-909-A-46-F1-B694-82584-B033-BED.jpg) (https://ibb.co/pwG20XK)

(https://i.ibb.co/LhG9t2D/ED5-A94-CF-848-B-48-B4-8915-91-B578-C540-E9.jpg) (https://ibb.co/LhG9t2D)

(https://i.ibb.co/p1HYRFB/DC9-F90-E1-E89-B-4-E7-C-B652-F67-DC0-C7350-F.jpg) (https://ibb.co/p1HYRFB)

(https://i.ibb.co/h2xF9k8/FE1-B54-C7-121-F-4-BA6-BF45-FCF6-DE856831.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h2xF9k8)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: tazio on March 12, 2021, 07:05:53 AM

I think the Honda is basically ready..
(https://i.ibb.co/h2xF9k8/FE1-B54-C7-121-F-4-BA6-BF45-FCF6-DE856831.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h2xF9k8)


That thing is WACK! :violent1:
I Love It !! :bow:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: nick949 on March 12, 2021, 07:19:02 AM
I just caught up with this thread (how did I miss it?). It sounds like a wonderful, Quixotic adventure.
Good luck with your surgery, and very much looking forward to the road reports. :popcorn:

Nick
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 12, 2021, 07:23:36 AM
I just caught up with this thread (how did I miss it?). It sounds like a wonderful, Quixotic adventure.
Good luck with your surgery, and very much looking forward to the road reports. :popcorn:

Nick
Thanks Nick.
My speaking voice does not have your dulcet tone and never will, but I’m wondering do you use a Go Pro for your video or something more hi tech ?
On the topic of the Quixotic nature of this jaunt..
When here or abroad on the Norge, I find that a lot of the nuances of the ride can be passed over or inadvertently missed, due to the target fixation that can creep into the day’s planning.
I can be guilty of deciding where I want to be by day’s end and missing a lot of the experiences that are available.
This trip is so large, that I will be constrained to immerse myself in it more than normal and be carried by the experience.
To attempt to enforce my will onto the venture, will most likely prove counterproductive.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Roebling3 on March 12, 2021, 10:00:11 AM
I used to carry 5L of fuel in a soft tank, inside the tank bag. I pressurized it w/my laptop. 'Valved' it with a Hemostat. Nearly every truck driver, seeing the hemostat, hoped I was a physician.

Don't ask me about a court house full of orange one-zee's. 

Further to your travel plans, Huzo. I forgot the formula (Pi day nears ~). The correlation of complexity vs failure rates come to mind. 

      The long shadow from the setting sun is WGC members keeping an eye out for you.    Good fortune, Huzo.  R3~
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 13, 2021, 03:35:51 PM
  The long shadow from the setting sun is WGC members keeping an eye out for you.    Good fortune, Huzo.  R3~
Well R, I’m sure there’ll be a couple that come to mind that may not..
But I think in the main, most folk wish the best for those who strike out...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: nick949 on March 13, 2021, 08:20:35 PM
Thanks Nick.
My speaking voice does not have your dulcet tone and never will, but I’m wondering do you use a Go Pro for your video or something more hi tech ?
On the topic of the Quixotic nature of this jaunt..
When here or abroad on the Norge, I find that a lot of the nuances of the ride can be passed over or inadvertently missed, due to the target fixation that can creep into the day’s planning.
I can be guilty of deciding where I want to be by day’s end and missing a lot of the experiences that are available.
This trip is so large, that I will be constrained to immerse myself in it more than normal and be carried by the experience.
To attempt to enforce my will onto the venture, will most likely prove counterproductive.

Hi Huzo, older GoPros for the video but I generally do the voice overs in my audio studio (basically a closet hung with curtains) .I also use my phone and digital camera for some stuff. Very low tech. I have found I have to bully myself into stopping to take pictures, record thoughts etc. otherwise the moment passes and is soon forgotten. I too suffer from target fixation, but try to fight it. I'm always slightly dissatisfied with what I've managed to record when I get home.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 14, 2021, 03:44:07 AM
Hi Huzo, older GoPros for the video but I generally do the voice overs in my audio studio (basically a closet hung with curtains) .I also use my phone and digital camera for some stuff. Very low tech. I have found I have to bully myself into stopping to take pictures, record thoughts etc. otherwise the moment passes and is soon forgotten. I too suffer from target fixation, but try to fight it. I'm always slightly dissatisfied with what I've managed to record when I get home.
Ok mate, I will keep in mind what you say..
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 27, 2021, 05:18:10 AM
Yesterday I got the roadworthy done on the little bike, it goes for registration on Wednesday. I converted it back to standard for the test.
(https://i.ibb.co/4d726Xv/C2-C1427-A-C23-C-4985-B389-0-FC050895-A94.jpg) (https://ibb.co/4d726Xv)

I rode it down to the testing station...(jeez, it felt small..).
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: chuck peterson on March 27, 2021, 07:02:43 AM
Just thinking here, and that’s dangerous..

Have you ever considered panniers on the front wheel...I know the bicycle touring world uses a neat trick of putting them down low in the front, so that the weight is centered around the front axle...I’ll go look for a foto

Like these..it’s neat your right at the crossroads of motorcycle and bicycle touring. Bits of both work real well..I LIKE IT!


(https://i.ibb.co/vj3Lw4c/C68427-B5-4-D26-4002-82-C4-9788-B1-DF1-BE6.jpg) (https://ibb.co/vj3Lw4c)

(https://i.ibb.co/j8jYfsq/234-FB7-E9-525-B-443-E-AD0-F-5108935-AC293.jpg) (https://ibb.co/j8jYfsq)

(https://i.ibb.co/YZNsRvs/C4-CC157-B-EE7-D-4-B67-A3-B1-A7-AB79764181.jpg) (https://ibb.co/YZNsRvs)


Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 27, 2021, 08:24:32 AM
There’s a bit to be said in favour of that Chuck.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: s1120 on March 27, 2021, 08:57:47 AM
What a cool plan, and sounds like it will be a blast!!  Ive ridden a few of those bikes over the years, and even more with that engine.. My first powered ride was a ATC90 that I rode the wheels off of just about every day for a good decade! I will jump in to say that while I have heard of them referred to as "posties" forever, I always thought it referend to the drop tube design of the frame with that tube ie.post..... not that they were used in many countries to deliver mail. It wasn't till a handful of years ago that I learned that.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 27, 2021, 11:16:10 AM
What a cool plan, and sounds like it will be a blast!!  Ive ridden a few of those bikes over the years, and even more with that engine.. My first powered ride was a ATC90 that I rode the wheels off of just about every day for a good decade! I will jump in to say that while I have heard of them referred to as "posties" forever, I always thought it referend to the drop tube design of the frame with that tube ie.post..... not that they were used in many countries to deliver mail. It wasn't till a handful of years ago that I learned that.
Yep..
For me 1978-2013...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: PJPR01 on March 27, 2021, 12:48:53 PM
Yes Tris. That’s the form it’s beginning to take in my mind also. I sort of hope the whole thing is postponed until 2022. Wouldn’t it be just like the Italians to have the 100 th at 101.
I’ll get back then if it’s on.
Actually Ncdan has made me an awwffer I can’t refuse, so thinking to ship the Norge to U.K. as usual, tour for 5 weeks then fly it to the East Coast of the U.S.
Tour around there and leave it at the depot in the U.S. for shipping home.

If this plan comes true Huzo...you must make it down to Houston or within 500 miles so we can have a gathering of the Guzzisti and welcome you in style.  I’m sure we could even arrange for Dusty to ride down too!  Goes without saying that you are welcome to stay with us, plenty of room!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on March 27, 2021, 01:06:31 PM
If this plan comes true Huzo...you must make it down to Houston or within 500 miles so we can have a gathering of the Guzzisti and welcome you in style.  I’m sure we could even arrange for Dusty to ride down too!  Goes without saying that you are welcome to stay with us, plenty of room!
Well thank you mate.
It seems Qantas are resuming flights out of here very soon. I have checked and the seats are filling fast. Today I will ring my shipping guy and see what he is doing for September - November.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on May 04, 2021, 04:02:32 PM
Well it’s now 8 weeks away..
I find I am applying myself whenever it occurs to me, to practicing mentally slowing down to interface with the speed I am going or the vastness of the journey that I’m in. I find I can knock over 12 hour days end on end, in the truck and not feel overawed by it. Also when your head is 9’ above the road surface, even 100 k’s feels slow, I think it’s not how fast you’re going, it’s how fast you FEEL like you’re going.
You see there’s a plan afoot...
I have another WG member who does not post these days and he has also prepared a little Honda to come along, his mechanical advice may well prove invaluable.... :wink:
I am gripped with the feeling that it would be a waste to come back South from Cape York and not turn right to head off to the West coast and go around..
(https://i.ibb.co/YPV8HK2/FDF08595-1003-41-D1-9514-E59-EB67-E5-F6-D.png) (https://ibb.co/YPV8HK2)

I was thinking yesterday on my way back from Sydney, that when on a big bike, I force the bike to do what I want because I have a pre formed expectation and list of demands that I enforce onto the Norge.
This I believe is a thing I simply must not do, on the little bike..
On the Norge I am the boss and the bike will do what I command of it, but on the Honda I will need to bring myself back to a more 50/50 approach with regards to my expectation level.
The little bike will serve me well, of that I have no doubt, but I must treat it with respect and enforced restraint because it simply cannot do what I have come to expect of a touring motorbike, so I will adjust my expectations.
I think a big trip (and this is a BIG one..), is a bit of a metaphor for life..
You know where it started and you think you know how far through the journey you are percentage wise, but really...You do not.
 The end can be further or closer than you think.
I was looking to the side out the window yesterday at the edge of the road and it looked like 100 kph, 500 metres away it looked like 50 kph and 1 km away it looked like I was standing still.... Time is like distance and distance is like time....
Look at a mountain way ahead and it seems to sit there and not move, yet the road kill in your path whizzes under your foot peg at a massive rate, the speed is the same but the perception of it is worlds apart.
When you crave something that’s a long way off, it seems to sit up ahead and never gets any closer, but the spectre of something bad seems to rush towards you at an unwelcome rate, the passing of time/distance is a function of your mental acceptance of your situation.
This trip will be like my life..
Each day has an end, I just don’t know how many of them there will be.... :clock: :bike-037:

Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on May 04, 2021, 04:10:14 PM
Oh BTW..
That graphic shows the distance as about 12,000 k.
That’s not actually right I must admit. If you join the towns together, it’s more like 13,000... :popcorn:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: v85lover on May 04, 2021, 09:39:27 PM
Oh BTW..
That graphic shows the distance as about 12,000 k.
That’s not actually right I must admit. If you join the towns together, it’s more like 18,000.... :popcorn:
your a crazy prick it has to be said!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on May 04, 2021, 10:33:39 PM
your a crazy prick it has to be said!
Ahhh...
Perhaps a little.... :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: reidy on May 05, 2021, 03:24:44 AM
I have read a number of books about people walking vast distances. As V85 said, your a crazy prick. He might be right. On the other hand you may be the most sane one here. A definition of sanity is "A person is sane if they are rational."

What you are doing may seem irrational to some, but may be the ultimate in rational thinking. I know that I could not do this at this point in my life.
If you have the ability to be happy with your achievements each day. Have enough mind control to set rational goals and are happy to undertake the challenge you will succeed. I for one hope you do.

I suspect at the end of this you will have overcome greater mental challenges than physical challenges. You will also learn even more about yourself than you know now.

I wish you every success.

Steve   
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on May 05, 2021, 05:58:20 AM
I have read a number of books about people walking vast distances. As V85 said, your a crazy prick. He might be right. On the other hand you may be the most sane one here. A definition of sanity is "A person is sane if they are rational."

What you are doing may seem irrational to some, but may be the ultimate in rational thinking. I know that I could not do this at this point in my life.
If you have the ability to be happy with your achievements each day. Have enough mind control to set rational goals and are happy to undertake the challenge you will succeed. I for one hope you do.

I suspect at the end of this you will have overcome greater mental challenges than physical challenges. You will also learn even more about yourself than you know now.

I wish you every success.

Steve   
That’s a really beautiful sentiment Reidy, thank you for your moral support.
Really when you look at it, there isn’t much difference in sitting on a little Honda for 8 hours a day for 20 days. Than sitting at a computer in a city high rise with no outside view, 8 hours a day for 20 days, to make enough money to go for a ride like mine...
What I am setting out to do is the embodiment of what a lot of people look to as the ultimate manifestation of their greatest motorbike fantasy...
I don’t think it will be that hard.
If I add up conservatively the amount of k’s I’ve done on these little Honda’s, it cannot be less than 370,000 and probably closer to 400,000. It’s just getting up in the morning at 4:45 for 37 years at being a Postie.
Now I’m doing it for fun and reflection....(At least I THINK that’s the reason...).
It actually defies reason, that’s the charm of it...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: DougG on May 05, 2021, 07:21:48 AM
Huzo,                                                                                       5-5-21

The best of the best of luck to you, Huzo.  May the wind be fair and always at your back.

Be well, stay well,

DougG

Take notes often...written or recorded.  I believe there is a chronicle in your future.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on May 05, 2021, 01:02:08 PM
Huzo,                                                                                       5-5-21

The best of the best of luck to you, Huzo.  May the wind be fair and always at your back.

Be well, stay well,

DougG

Take notes often...written or recorded.  I believe there is a chronicle in your future.
Thank you Doug, I usually do this
https://youtu.be/BROiABlWgJg
https://youtu.be/b_dfQxbGk-0
https://youtu.be/Eq4lzfPxvKw
https://youtu.be/hvPPh4q_qgY
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: DougG on May 05, 2021, 06:48:22 PM
Huzo,                                                                                                               5-5-21

I just scrolled through your youtubes.    Wow, I guess you do "take notes"!  Impressive.

Be well, stay well,
DougG

P.S. I couldn't get the first one to load...no biggie.  I think I got the idea from  the other three.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on May 05, 2021, 07:09:18 PM
Huzo,                                                                                                               5-5-21

I just scrolled through your youtubes.    Wow, I guess you do "take notes"!  Impressive.

Be well, stay well,
DougG

P.S. I couldn't get the first one to load...no biggie.  I think I got the idea from  the other three.
Yeah , 2016 got pulled due to copyright infringements.
It’s fairly standard stuff.
Descending the Stelvio on the Norge, then off over to the Transfagarasan for lunch. Crossing over the top there with a bit of a heart stopping moment, then back through Bosnia, Serbia..blah blah.
Someone on here dug up part one and reposted it, part two is floating around somewhere in the cloud.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 11, 2021, 01:05:38 AM
I had planned to go from Cape Otway to Cape York and back, but the spectre of the 3,000 k South, down the same road on the return was a bit daunting..
So I reckon I’ll turn right at Charters Towers and go around via Broome and Perth, with a little sprint across the Nullarbor for the run home.
It’s going to add about 5,000k to the trip, but I won’t have the daunting task of riding back down the same road.
The total will be about 13,000 k.
I bought one of these, I think it will be a good thing..
(https://i.ibb.co/ZcN2qwC/FF1335-B7-9-A4-E-42-F8-8-F12-4-C720-DE242-CD.png) (https://ibb.co/ZcN2qwC)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bottler on May 11, 2021, 04:20:42 AM
 Hi Huzo,

Have just read this thread from the start till today, great stuff! May I wish you all the best for the lap of Oz. I am planning on the same lap starting in August from Bungendore. I suspect you might just pass through here on your way up north. If yes let me know if you need any help, lodgings etc; but once again that just might be sorted, no?

Cheers

Bottler
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 11, 2021, 04:33:33 AM
Hi Huzo,

Have just read this thread from the start till today, great stuff! May I wish you all the best for the lap of Oz. I am planning on the same lap starting in August from Bungendore. I suspect you might just pass through here on your way up north. If yes let me know if you need any help, lodgings etc; but once again that just might be sorted, no?

Cheers

Bottler
I am always appreciative of these offers Bottler.
I’ll be on the Newell Hwy from Echuca through West Wyalong up to Gilgandra, so will be a long way West of you.
Thank you for your offer mate.
Wasn’t your greenie at Michael’s place the other day was it ?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bottler on May 11, 2021, 05:03:46 AM
nah Huzo, no green machine in my fleet, the Jota is black, and the Stelvio sort of dark grey. My lap will be on the Stelvio, with a couple of mates, who like me, are recently retired, so nil time constraints. We will be camping mostly, except when I can no longer put up with my BO, then hotels will be necessary. I will be very interested in your camping reports.

Our better halves are looking to fly in and visit us in places such as Port Douglas, Darwin, Broome and Perth/Margaret River. FIFO sounds great I reckon!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bottler on May 11, 2021, 05:05:17 AM
BTW, I read recently that it is about 100 kilometres shorter if you do the lap anti clockwise.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 11, 2021, 05:57:52 AM
BTW, I read recently that it is about 100 kilometres shorter if you do the lap anti clockwise.
That’s always a good one bottler.
I went to great pains to point out once to a devotee of that theory, that the  circumference of a circle is 6 times the radius.
If you increase the radius by 5 metres by moving out to the outside lane, then the circumference increases by 30 metres.
My mate Pythagoras told me so. :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bottler on May 11, 2021, 10:07:41 PM
Pythagorean geometry not my strong point Huzo, but I suppose a smaller circle would be less distance to circumnavigate than a larger one. Anyway that has nothing to do with our choice to go in an anti clockwise direction. We have to head to Cape York first as friends are holidaying at Port Douglas in late August, from there it will be the Savannah way, Gibb River Road, and down to Perth after RnR in Broome.

As a young bloke I was part of the exploration crew that proved up the existence of the Argyle diamond deposit so am particularly looking forward to returning to the Kimberleys. Hopefully the roads have improved a tad in the last 40 years!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 12, 2021, 12:27:45 AM
Pythagorean geometry not my strong point Huzo, but I suppose a smaller circle would be less distance to circumnavigate than a larger one. Anyway that has nothing to do with our choice to go in an anti clockwise direction. We have to head to Cape York first as friends are holidaying at Port Douglas in late August, from there it will be the Savannah way, Gibb River Road, and down to Perth after RnR in Broome.

As a young bloke I was part of the exploration crew that proved up the existence of the Argyle diamond deposit so am particularly looking forward to returning to the Kimberleys. Hopefully the roads have improved a tad in the last 40 years!
The distance stomping ability and all terrain capability of a CT110 Honda is without peer..
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on May 12, 2021, 01:49:23 AM
The distance is only slight shorter by going anticlockwise, but that is not the main advantage.  :grin: It is to do with fuel economy, and probably more relevant to a caravan, but in the interest of Guzzi ownership, every dollar counts. Before you have me committed have a look at the science behind it. On the East coast the prevailing wind is often South to North. Across the top end it is often East to West. Down the west coast it is often North to South and of course across the bottom end it is often West to East. So by going anticlockwise you are statically more likely to have a tail wind and if you do have a head wind it is likely to be lower intensity.

For those that are interested in the research I believe it is linked to the coriolis effect which effects ocean currents and cyclone rotations. A cyclone will rotate in a clockwise direction down here so a west cost cyclone generates a wind from north to south. Down here we also have the roaring forties which which is a west to east wind at lower latitudes.

The other main advantage is visibility and comfort. :grin: The northern latitudes have longer days and warmer temperatures at this time of the year. So to get a good days riding in up north you can leave early in the morning whilst the temperature is cool and pull up as the day warms up to avoid ridding into the setting sun. Down South you leave a bit latter as the day warms up so you are not ridding into the rising sun and make best use of the afternoons warmth.   

So by pure logic an anticlockwise trip is the way to go, and no doubt why Huzo planned it that way.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 12, 2021, 02:35:18 AM
The old pilot in me did take a broad overview and the benefit of predominantly tailwinds on the Nullarbor, did not go unconsidered.
However, the main consideration is that I want to get up and down the Cape without too much of July disappearing.
I am thinking of 7 seat hrs. a day which is a touch under 500 k.
So with a distance of 4,000 from Cape Otway to Cape York, the thumbnail measurement gives me 8 seat days, plus a couple for tyre change at Cairns and an oil change every 3 days.
So let’s call it 10 days to Cape York, that’ll be July 13.
Then maybe 3 days back to civilisation, before turning right to head for Mt Isa and then Three Ways..etc.
I do hold some reservations about the trip down the West coast from Broome to Perth though, I seem to recall prevailing headwinds, but I steadfastly refuse to be put off. I’ll just slow down and take an extra day or so.
Anyone here who wants to come, can join me and the other WG member whom I previously mentioned.
He’s full of witticisms and no fool with mechanicals...(although it’s not a Guzzi.... :wink:).
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on May 12, 2021, 03:31:49 AM
You seem like a person who would be well versed in Latin and therefore aware of the lack of trees on the Nullabour.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 12, 2021, 03:36:00 AM
You seem like a person who would be well versed in Latin and therefore aware of the lack of trees on the Nullabour.

Steve
Nah mate, a tech school education and half an engineering degree.
Trouble is I can’t remember which half.... :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: stubbie on May 12, 2021, 09:05:57 PM
If I remember the last time you were over this way it was pi##ing with rain and thunderstorms so the wind was probably coming from the south west.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 13, 2021, 12:53:39 AM
South West will do nicely.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: luthier on May 13, 2021, 06:19:13 PM
Huzo I salute you for such a brave  attempt at conquering your inner boredom. Meditation is the name of the game and allowing so much time to watch the world passing by should indeed be a great meditation, a solid mantra of postie bike , and by the time you get home you _should_ be cured.
If you are going up the Newell you won't be passing our place which is just near Nimbin, which is sad, cause it would have been fun if you'd wanted to stay for a night to regenerate that postie road lust. You could have parked it next to the ducati so they could laugh at each other in the stall. The duke would have probably turned from proper red to green overnight, since she has long had a wish to go on such an adventure.
I have One useful suggestion  , can you mount one of those tall flags that they must have on all mine vehicles please? They stand out very well on a fast highway for all the vehicles that need to notice you. One can see them for miles ahead as you cruise at 160K's so there's more time to wash a bit of speed to laugh at the poor silly stupid bastard who's obviously gone AWOL from a post office from somewhere. Have you considered long distance trips on a rideon mower? It has been done too. Later you could do one on a mobility scooter.
All the best and stay safe.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Kremmen on May 14, 2021, 06:36:49 AM
Okay, it's confirmed, you are bonkers. Awesome.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on May 14, 2021, 07:08:52 AM
Hey Pete. I cant wait for the adventure to begin  and looking forever to keeping up with your progress on a daily basis.  Your trip may be my only chance to discover your wonderful continent, so keep the pictures flowing, please!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: stubbie on May 14, 2021, 08:16:48 PM
Forever? He's only going for a month. :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 15, 2021, 04:16:13 AM
Okay, it's confirmed, you are bonkers.
Ancient history that one...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 15, 2021, 08:04:59 AM
Hey Pete. I cant wait for the adventure to begin  and looking forever to keeping up with your progress on a daily basis.  Your trip may be my only chance to discover your wonderful continent, so keep the pictures flowing, please!
I will certainly post video regularly here and as usual will Go Pro the whole thing Dan.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(and back..)
Post by: Huzo on May 17, 2021, 03:02:48 PM
Huzo

If you make good time on the way up you could consider coming home via Cape Byron. That way you will have three of the four points done. Then when you have a free couple of weeks you can duck across to the north west cape and complete the set  :laugh:.

Steve
Thanks Reidy, this is the one that got me started on making it an “all the way ‘round” trip.
Please don’t bring Cedar Vale and CT 110 or Mandello up in the same sentence.... :popcorn:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 17, 2021, 03:33:58 PM
Pythagorean geometry not my strong point Huzo, but I suppose a smaller circle would be less distance to circumnavigate than a larger one. Anyway that has nothing to do with our choice to go in an anti clockwise direction. We have to head to Cape York first as friends are holidaying at Port Douglas in late August, from there it will be the Savannah way, Gibb River Road, and down to Perth after RnR in Broome.

As a young bloke I was part of the exploration crew that proved up the existence of the Argyle diamond deposit so am particularly looking forward to returning to the Kimberleys. Hopefully the roads have improved a tad in the last 40 years!
This place is good.
(https://i.ibb.co/BPY74nH/FDE0-F24-D-F4-B1-4-E13-93-A0-49-D9-CC61-AD04.jpg) (https://ibb.co/BPY74nH) (https://i.ibb.co/KGWTrwM/B36-C10-E2-68-A0-4-A1-C-BEE8-876-B85-A4252-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/KGWTrwM) (https://i.ibb.co/TwnmR0M/D1-CEBB79-5402-446-D-A1-D7-33-A428806-FEC.jpg) (https://ibb.co/TwnmR0M) (https://i.ibb.co/HYPgKz8/08-AD421-E-7932-4-DBD-A0-D5-4-BF1104723-A6.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HYPgKz8) (https://i.ibb.co/528h6MC/86-FB5995-B0-C9-4189-ACB6-AFE48-F017-D7-E.jpg) (https://ibb.co/528h6MC) (https://i.ibb.co/X8f8h00/105-A931-D-D3-A7-48-BF-A62-C-A916-B8960-E09.jpg) (https://ibb.co/X8f8h00) (https://i.ibb.co/rySMF66/DA1609-B2-EE2-A-4-FA7-869-E-DE7-CCB0-A30-EF.jpg) (https://ibb.co/rySMF66)

This area is in the Kimberley...(except for the Roper reference..).
That pub is amazingly nice inside and has a pool... :thumb:.....(table.... :sad:)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bottler on May 18, 2021, 04:12:58 AM
OK, I will take refreshment at Whim Creek Hotel when I get there, probably late September. Looks like an oasis. :boozing:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: ScepticalScotty on May 18, 2021, 04:48:37 AM
Ah West Wyalong where we finally decided to not play in the Joe Reeves Country Band anymore. All the way from Orange to there and back for 20 bucks.  :shocked:

All the best Huzo, what an excellent adventure  - makes me a bit homesick.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 18, 2021, 05:41:03 AM
OK, I will take refreshment at Whim Creek Hotel when I get there, probably late September. Looks like an oasis. :boozing:
’cnoath...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 23, 2021, 03:42:19 PM
You seem like a person who would be well versed in Latin and therefore aware of the lack of trees on the Nullabour.

Steve
Yep.
Nullar= Bugger all of
Bor= Tree
Therefore Nullarbor = Bugger all of + Tree = Not many trees.
These were taken there.

(https://i.ibb.co/FB4rSLP/28434930-B721-4-BD2-8-E6-E-81-BB0-FC82090.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FB4rSLP)

(https://i.ibb.co/v3tFgQT/3508-EE45-5764-4-E56-B3-DE-AE135-A596247.jpg) (https://ibb.co/v3tFgQT)

Might get some part time work while en route.

(https://i.ibb.co/JxtHwTj/F541215-A-3-F3-D-4-B1-D-A1-BB-542-AD8296-BFC.png) (https://ibb.co/JxtHwTj)

png blue picture (https://imgbb.com/)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on May 25, 2021, 02:27:16 AM
Close, Null means no.
Arbor means tree or wood.

No trees

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 25, 2021, 02:31:50 AM
Close, Null means no.
Arbor means tree or wood.

No trees

Steve
Yeah mate, dead right.
I would have been all over that if it’d been someone else, I’ll have plenty of time to ponder that en route.... :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: ozarquebus on May 26, 2021, 10:42:49 PM
in Oklahoma

$2500

https://tulsa.craigslist.org/mcy/d/bristow-1984-vintage-honda-trail-110/7326487238.html


(https://i.ibb.co/6ybYvFb/00-S0-S-Nq9-ILTu-TAez-0l-M0t2-1200x900.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6ybYvFb)


Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 26, 2021, 10:53:37 PM
in Oklahoma

$2500

https://tulsa.craigslist.org/mcy/d/bristow-1984-vintage-honda-trail-110/7326487238.html


(https://i.ibb.co/6ybYvFb/00-S0-S-Nq9-ILTu-TAez-0l-M0t2-1200x900.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6ybYvFb)

If that’s an ‘84 model, it’ll be close to the start of the 110’s.
The early ones had lighter spokes and smaller brakes along with some other changes, but still the rock of Gibraltar reliability.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: wyno on May 30, 2021, 12:28:10 AM
Hey Pete, are you still going to be able to do the trip?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 30, 2021, 01:09:33 AM
Hey Pete, are you still going to be able to do the trip?
Yes..
I’ll call
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: j.davis on June 08, 2021, 05:13:50 AM
@ Huzo
From one of my FB pages.
Jock Adams is going back across the country for the umpteenth time with his postie.
Special swing arm and tyre for the 1100 dunes.


(https://i.ibb.co/Jd71DkC/194044568-10226676534845410-2807487302356195007-n.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Jd71DkC)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: ozarquebus on June 08, 2021, 05:38:40 AM
Amazing sport. Doing the most with the least. Both gritty and edgy as well as timelessly classic. Kudo.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 08, 2021, 05:52:06 AM
Hmmm yeah.
A nice minimalist approach... :popcorn:
BTW.
Operation is over, a bit sore but still have 27 days to departure.. :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: tazio on June 08, 2021, 06:54:54 AM
@ Huzo
From one of my FB pages.
Jock Adams is going back across the country for the umpteenth time with his postie.
Special swing arm and tyre for the 1100 dunes.


(https://i.ibb.co/Jd71DkC/194044568-10226676534845410-2807487302356195007-n.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Jd71DkC)

:bow: Wow! That dude has GOT TO be carrying a spoke wrench (I hope!).
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 19, 2021, 08:33:24 AM
There’s nothing left to do but wait...
All it needs is fuel.
13 days to go.. :clock: :clock: :clock: https://youtu.be/GTK14SkyrKM
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on June 19, 2021, 10:53:28 AM
I think a lot of us members are looking foreword to following you all the way buddy👍👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: pete mcgee on June 19, 2021, 04:34:36 PM
Pete,
How goes the shoulder?
Ive had 4 shoulder repairs, 3 on rh, 1 on left.
You should almost be able to wipe your arse with your dominate hand, if that was the one they worked on,  a great and obvious milestone in recovery.
Full motion and strength, well that takes longer, depending on what they did and how they did it.
Bring your warm gear, its dropping down to 0 or just below on the western side of the range in southern qld.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 19, 2021, 04:48:29 PM
Pete,
How goes the shoulder?
Ive had 4 shoulder repairs, 3 on rh, 1 on left.
You should almost be able to wipe your arse with your dominate hand, if that was the one they worked on,  a great and obvious milestone in recovery.
Full motion and strength, well that takes longer, depending on what they did and how they did it.
Bring your warm gear, its dropping down to 0 or just below on the western side of the range in southern qld.
The arse thing is ok..(just..). Left hand good enough at a pinch if no one takes too close a look.. :rolleyes:
Everything I used my right hand for can now be done as well as before... :wink:
Seriously though, I am going to benefit from the next 13 days of R&R before departure, but I really think I’ll be ok.
I’ll just head off in between - lockdowns, I’ve had my 1st Astra Zeneca shot and will get the follow up just prior to leaving.
I have exactly the same gear that I use in Europe (Northern Norway etc...) in that ubiquitous red bag on the little Honda, it will suffice I reckon. My (calculated) fuel range should be around 450 k on the road and whatever in the slow stuff.
Open face helmet with industrial clear and tinted safety glasses options on board.
Can’t think of much else...You can fix anything with a wallet, mobile and GPS.
ps..
As for the wiping thing..
You can have hours of fun with those bubble taps the kids have at primary schools.
(https://i.ibb.co/b2m2dfd/62658359-761-F-4335-9-CA4-3-EF2985-BDE48.png) (https://ibb.co/b2m2dfd)

(https://i.ibb.co/t26hVwg/FCF888-C1-1576-46-E2-B1-AA-3-B14-B3710-AB7.png) (https://ibb.co/t26hVwg)

(https://i.ibb.co/2NsnyDr/DAD116-C2-0192-480-D-8603-5-EAC68-EB062-A.png) (https://ibb.co/2NsnyDr)
 I can go there after hours for a tidy up... :thumb: :thumb: :thumb: :evil:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 26, 2021, 04:51:10 AM
Another change of plan..
I was going to leave on the July 3, but cannot stand waiting any longer. I’m leaving for Apollo Bay in the morning, it’s about 250 km and I will stay there tomorrow night.
Monday morning it’s around to Cape Otway (30 km) and off to Cape York for the first leg (4,000 k).
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on June 26, 2021, 07:34:29 AM
Good luck Peter!!!!!!
Keep the pictures and progress reports coming in every day on the trip👍👍👍👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: elrealistico on June 26, 2021, 08:12:32 AM
Good luck as well, hope you have many great adventures to tell the grandkids around the fire after you get back!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: geoff in almonte on June 26, 2021, 09:50:52 AM
Safe Travels!

G
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 26, 2021, 04:55:28 PM
 :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: pete mcgee on June 26, 2021, 05:10:50 PM
Good idea, go WEST young man avoid the current NSW - cluster and the upcomming QLD cluster.
QLD currently has border restrictions for just about anyone who went near Sydney.
Stay tuned in to the current  border status, WA is on such a roll they may successfully remove themselves from the federation and declare themselves  independent and not recognise anything east of the SA border. Might be worth it just to stop the whining.
Have fun
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Muzz on June 26, 2021, 09:44:55 PM
Safe travels Peter.  Hope the machine turns out to be anvil reliable.

Of course, the standard caveat,  :gotpics: or it never happened. :popcorn: :popcorn:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: stubbie on June 27, 2021, 03:43:21 AM
Oh backpacks.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: j.davis on June 27, 2021, 05:01:10 AM
Good luck with the trip.
We aren't game enough to go into NSW atm for fear of not getting back into QLD.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 27, 2021, 04:59:20 PM
All that makes sense..
250 k Creswick to Cape Otway yesterday, leaving there this morning. One unintentional power wheelie coming up the mountain road... :rolleyes:
Will post photo’s and possibly Go Pro tonight.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Paul Brooking on June 27, 2021, 09:20:14 PM
Good Luck

The bike is slow enough that it will be similar to 2 weeks quarantine (except you will be (barely) moving)  :evil:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: v85lover on June 27, 2021, 11:54:50 PM
Huzo came by my place on his way down to his starting point on the weekend to say goodbye to myself and his granddaughter Letty as we wont see him for a while as we all know the mighty ct110 may take some time to finish its trip:).

(https://i.ibb.co/zrpv2S4/203751708-1739201472938113-2129883777223960542-n.jpg) (https://ibb.co/zrpv2S4)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 28, 2021, 01:32:19 AM
Huzo came by my place on his way down to his starting point on the weekend to say goodbye to myself and his granddaughter Letty as we wont see him for a while as we all know the mighty ct110 may take some time to finish its trip:).

(https://i.ibb.co/zrpv2S4/203751708-1739201472938113-2129883777223960542-n.jpg) (https://ibb.co/zrpv2S4)

I’ve only been away one day and that fluffy creature is looking good already..!
Actually.
‘Took some shots this morning at Cape Otway and started off North. I wanted to change some equipment set up so have gotten back to Creswick with 500 k on the Honda, I will cross into NSW tomorrow at Echuca.
Departed the Cape in my usual understated way after dealing with the media throng..!
I felt that a simple form of dress was in order and chose this Cape style cape. I thought it de rigeur for such ground breaking missions..!
(https://i.ibb.co/8Y29v3j/0-D3155-EC-04-BA-4-FB0-B73-E-94-C4-B17-B7704.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8Y29v3j)

(https://i.ibb.co/ryTZwQ9/CACDF0-F9-6-F45-4893-ADC8-7107-AA7-AB926.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ryTZwQ9)

(https://i.ibb.co/19hRG86/7066-EA55-35-A1-41-C1-815-E-A09-ED5208122.jpg) (https://ibb.co/19hRG86)

All a bit low key, but I’m sure the upcoming few weeks will be chock full of hilarious hijinx. It looks like you’ve done ok when you look at this..
(https://i.ibb.co/k0cn5QR/6-C30-A1-FE-7725-4-B2-F-8-E39-DBB480-FD0-F4-D.png) (https://ibb.co/k0cn5QR)

But not when you look at this... (Gulp..!)

(https://i.ibb.co/2NqsTgd/F89-E9-F50-6-E63-4-B5-A-B6-C6-8-A31989-B8-CC2.png) (https://ibb.co/2NqsTgd)

Interestingly, the first 200 km took 5.9 litres and that was a mix of flat and mountain hills. With 17 useable litres on board, I should have safe 500 k range.
Oh, one more thing..
For those that noticed the “C” is obscured on the “Cape” word making it look like “Ape....”
Yes, we know... :rolleyes:
Those “C” words will bring you unstuck every time !
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on June 28, 2021, 08:18:34 AM
And the adventure begins!
Good start it looks like! Be safe my friend and looking foreword to tracking your progress!!!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 28, 2021, 08:36:39 AM
And the adventure begins!
Good start it looks like! Be safe my friend and looking foreword to tracking your progress!!!
Thanks Dan and all the previous well wishers. Believe it or not, the complete lack of dissenting comments regarding this episode, have really helped to quell some of the fear related to it’s enormity..

I will be meeting another guy with a history on WG as I go North and he will be doing a section of the trip with me.
He doesn’t post much these days, but the mechanical knowledge he brings could prove quite valuable... :popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: ozarquebus on June 28, 2021, 10:02:05 PM
bon voyage!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Scout63 on June 28, 2021, 10:26:25 PM
With you in spirit Huzo. Thanks for living large for the rest of us.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 29, 2021, 03:38:28 AM
Thanks all of youse...
Not much to report or take shots of yet, but the bike is going well and doing about 450 k per day at. 70-75 kph.
I crossed into NSW at Echuca and will start heading North towards Dubbo tomorrow, which is about a day short of Queensland.
Slurping 3 litres/100 k and I have 15 litres on board.
This is what I did today..
(https://i.ibb.co/9bt9vgd/B698-CC84-2003-4725-9-FBD-D79717-E4-C299.png) (https://ibb.co/9bt9vgd)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: huub on June 29, 2021, 06:23:44 AM
great trip!
have fun, i hope i can do this when retired!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: twowings on June 29, 2021, 07:22:50 AM
I want a t-shirt from Tittybong!  :cool:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Blue Mountains 57 on June 29, 2021, 07:54:41 AM
Good luck on your quest Sir Knight (sounds of two coconut shells clapping together). Here's hoping the - authorities leave you to your fun. :grin:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on June 29, 2021, 07:58:06 AM
You go Pete !!!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Dharma Bum on June 29, 2021, 10:15:13 AM
With you in spirit!!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on June 30, 2021, 03:09:40 AM
There isn’t much going on yet, just lots and lots of long straights. But everything is going just great.
I feel like my mind is starting to adapt to the new rate at which destinations roll up and I don’t feel like I am going “slowly”.
When I am in my usual mode on the Norge and V85, I look at the kilometres to the next destination and if I want to predict my arrival time, I just divide by 10 and multiply by 6, that gives the time in minutes.
On this trip, I look at the k’s and call it minutes then subtract a bit.
Amazingly accurate...!
I am meeting up with Ian Short (Bat11) tomorrow and he will be doing a fairly large chunk of the trip as well, but I’ll leave it to him to divulge the details.
When I start to see quirky sights and deep water crossings, I’ll start to post photo’s.
Queensland border tomorrow or day after.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Muzz on June 30, 2021, 03:39:21 AM
Off to a good start Peter.

May your trusty steed keep on purring and your trip memorable (in a good way of course). :thumb:

Looking forward to the photos.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: pete mcgee on June 30, 2021, 05:50:24 PM
Pete,
se qld us currently in lockdown until Friday. Townsville is the same.  You will probably miss the issues due to the time on target for Townsville.
You are also heading into a few days rain , if you havent already. Issues, distance weather, my god thats what they call an adventure. Enjoy.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on June 30, 2021, 08:14:19 PM
Keep up the good work Pete. We’re all pulling for you👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Glawster on July 01, 2021, 04:14:17 AM
Good luck Peter on your great adventure.  Will follow your progress with interest.  Cheers, Derek
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 02, 2021, 06:01:44 AM
Good luck Peter on your great adventure.  Will follow your progress with interest.  Cheers, Derek
Thank you Derek.
I still remember the nice dinner and room at your place. Good times.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 03, 2021, 02:50:51 PM
Yesterday I met up with Ian from here on the forum (Bat11). He is on a well prepared Honda 200 which gets along nicely.
(https://i.ibb.co/jgpBQ16/B3-B2-F11-E-7-E4-C-41-BD-9-E71-B93-A35-E94-E87.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jgpBQ16)

(https://i.ibb.co/nkWtPnJ/B0-BE553-A-1-B41-426-A-8-EB3-40-EB8-CECD00-F.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nkWtPnJ)

(https://i.ibb.co/Fs8k77c/71-B9563-A-AA71-42-A2-8-FED-8-C0-CD5-EE9-C05.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Fs8k77c)

We did about 450 k, which is what you can expect on these things.
Some of the fuel stations are a bit old word to say the least. But anyway, today we will go towards Charters Towers and in a couple of days we’ll be starting the real off road stuff with river crossings and the like.
(https://i.ibb.co/qg8HBSx/8251-AC0-D-1-FC8-40-E5-B195-21-C26-EF8-E074.png) (https://ibb.co/qg8HBSx)

Stay tuned...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on July 03, 2021, 06:15:11 PM
Mate you are seeing more of the country than a lot of big bore bikes in this country have seen. It shows we are limited by our minds and not our equipment. I have meet people that would not tour on anything smaller than 1300cc.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Muzz on July 03, 2021, 07:37:17 PM
Haven't you realised yet peter that you can't tour on a bike less than 1000cc.   :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

It's on the internet so it must be true.  Yeah nah.  Keep on trucking! :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Sye on July 04, 2021, 12:58:55 AM
Epic ride! Good luck and watch out for the road trains. I'm watching this with interest, what an adventure!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 04, 2021, 05:33:25 AM
Epic ride! Good luck and watch out for the road trains.
I am an interstate truck driver myself operating b doubles . As it happens, the truck drivers actually time their passing so as not to coincide with oncoming traffic.
Just the slightest move to the side will let them know you have seen them and they will pass you with ample space.
Have not had any  problems at all.
(https://i.ibb.co/C5MSYBb/92-C8-F050-0-DF8-45-E8-9-E2-E-5-CDDD6-A86-E6-A.png) (https://ibb.co/C5MSYBb)

(https://i.ibb.co/mz1TrsZ/6820-A5-CD-A211-4-BB5-AF96-28-A1-D37-CC86-B.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mz1TrsZ)

(https://i.ibb.co/ZXm5j7S/1-DBC8-A86-302-B-4-AB3-B3-CA-36-D21-DDFB571.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ZXm5j7S)

Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bottler on July 05, 2021, 06:20:21 PM
Hi Huzo,

Your trip looks like you are off to a good start. I plan to head off in mid August, also up the Newell Hwy. I am interested in what type of camping stove you are using. Grateful your advice. Go well.

Bottler
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on July 05, 2021, 08:56:41 PM
So far so good buddy 👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 06, 2021, 05:32:14 AM
Hi Huzo,

Your trip looks like you are off to a good start. I plan to head off in mid August, also up the Newell Hwy. I am interested in what type of camping stove you are using. Grateful your advice. Go well.

Bottler
I left the stove at home because I was conscious of keeping the weight down.
There is plenty of dry firewood.
My stove is identical to this one
(https://i.ibb.co/MS1VPdr/D923-ED31-31-E0-4-B26-8422-6-CC342-D65-F84.png) (https://ibb.co/MS1VPdr)
, it runs on the same fuel as the bike.
BTW.
I turned off the Newell at Jerilderie and went up the Kidman way. Very quiet and good quality surface.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 06, 2021, 05:52:00 AM
Today I felt more in tune with the passing of time than has been to date.
I really think I have adapted to the different cruising speed on the small bike, it no longer  seems slow, I think my level of expectation has begun to adjust. You know when you have done 500 k in 5 hours, you don’t wish it was 4 hours. So now when I take six and a half hours to do 500 k, I don’t wish I’d done it in 5.
The bike does not “feel” small anymore.
I have been wearing a dayglo coat up ‘till now and a bloke at a roadhouse said he passed me earlier on a 5 k straight and he swears black and blue that he could see me from 5 k away, even before he knew it was a bike...!
The temperature has left the low teens and climbed to the high 20’s, very light tail winds today and that really makes a difference.
Interestingly, Ian’s Honda Ag 200 uses marginally less fuel than my CT 110....Marvellous.. . :thumb:
We are booked in tomorrow morning to have off road tyres fitted for the expected conditions.
Here’s some stuff...
(https://i.ibb.co/WxmNHXn/EBC5-E676-2528-4-EB3-88-E2-FECDA51-FDDD2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WxmNHXn)

(https://i.ibb.co/VBPGWgV/B0-E557-ED-8-EDE-4-CB7-A964-9-C010-CC0-C381.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VBPGWgV)

(https://i.ibb.co/vhJmS8r/B7-D162-B1-8954-4-D12-9736-57-B363-D58-A2-E.jpg) (https://ibb.co/vhJmS8r)

(https://i.ibb.co/6nVNh6s/641-C0474-6-D96-4-C30-97-A0-4758-A0-FC2325.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6nVNh6s)

(https://i.ibb.co/9thD9Xj/B70-FE4-BA-0-A62-4-E53-A732-8-D4-C9-AA58099.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9thD9Xj)

(https://i.ibb.co/ZK7MGKN/B9285656-F18-A-4-CE7-A5-B4-33-E1-D43-A7901.png) (https://ibb.co/ZK7MGKN)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: nick949 on July 06, 2021, 08:29:06 AM
Excellent. Have a great trip  :bow:

Nick
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 09, 2021, 02:22:15 AM
Well guys, Ian and I are parked up at Musgrave station which is one day away from Cape York if you are in a 4WD.
So double that and we’ll be there.
The trip up the development rd was hair raising to say the least, what with roaming cattle, dust, emu’s and errant drivers, one can consider himself lucky to be here. But here is some of the “action...”
(https://i.ibb.co/VtPjfqF/3-A0-DAD3-D-3-FB7-482-A-A3-E9-71-D36-E25-E7-F5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VtPjfqF) (https://i.ibb.co/yF0FXsW/1-F93-E297-BBC0-4012-B88-E-2-E4-C6-FCC0-B95.jpg) (https://ibb.co/yF0FXsW) (https://i.ibb.co/XxY6Yrj/3-B2-D6-AD8-25-F2-4017-9-EB1-02-C81-FD84231.jpg) (https://ibb.co/XxY6Yrj) (https://i.ibb.co/kQMCM5d/4864-A731-7139-43-E5-BAAB-8-EBC02-DDB8-BC.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kQMCM5d) (https://i.ibb.co/7SMTvYr/174946-E6-4-A71-435-A-8-FF4-1-A5242-F6-F028.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7SMTvYr) (https://i.ibb.co/LSdcHHh/78892-F80-868-B-4-D97-A8-E2-CCDA479-F28-A5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/LSdcHHh) (https://i.ibb.co/L9fkhY2/E2-FE67-ED-4-B1-E-49-C6-B9-B7-43-F72-EEE688-C.jpg) (https://ibb.co/L9fkhY2) (https://i.ibb.co/CtwzZmB/18-F68-BE5-EB58-4-BFF-8-C8-E-68-B9-A00572-B0.jpg) (https://ibb.co/CtwzZmB) (https://i.ibb.co/C56PwB8/5-E264341-0-A46-4056-BD99-78-EBE8130616.jpg) (https://ibb.co/C56PwB8) (https://i.ibb.co/Jxz87R8/1501120-F-659-B-4-BA4-93-AA-0-FD79-A82-D9-F8.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Jxz87R8)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on July 09, 2021, 08:34:45 AM
Looks like y’all are doing great!
Keep the pictures and updates coming 👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: ozarquebus on July 09, 2021, 04:32:51 PM
Looking at Australian music, it looks like a lot of it deals with traveling and roads. Maybe you are singing songs while eating up the kilometers?

Huzo, you are quite the
Wild Rover (trad.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_4KboYi40I

By reading the big round sign in your photos, I can tell
Its a Long Way To the The TOP (AC/DC)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nULs4JW3tPI

have you found
The Pub With No Beer? (Slim Dusty)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFpGQoOBrLY

at least you have plenty of the
Wide Open Road (The Triffids)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7N5akOOlGTI

don't forget to tell us what happens
Along the Road to Gundagai (Jack OHagan)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBnVUL5gjWQ

Wish I could say
I'm Going Back Again to Yarrawonga (Jack OHagan)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiR6QBo8t3c&list=RDWiR6QBo8t3c&start_radio=1

when you get done, will you be a
Rover No More? (P Jones)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJKc0ZTyVJA

and make it in time for
Christmas in the Sun (Harris-Parfitt)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rH4GULeON9I

Stay strong, Huzo!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 10, 2021, 05:36:31 AM
I’ll readily admit that there are times when the enormity of this thing looms large. When laying down in the tent or first waking, the reality of what I am doing sits heavily, however once I’m up and about, there doesn’t seem to be any particular task that feels beyond me.
The corrugations on the road today were severe and I had to remind myself that the priority is to keep the bike in good shape and allow the destination to appear in it’s own time, not mine. I knew there’d be times like this, but when you are living the moment, you have to recognise where your natural tendencies are likely to lead you astray.

The tyres that I got in Charters Towers are differing markedly in their performance from front to back, they are without doubt the most diabolically horrid things ever foisted upon mankind when used on sealed roads, but it’s all I could get.
The front is wearing very well, but the back is at least half gone and I hold some doubt that it will see me back to where I can replace it. If push comes to shove, I may have to take the front one off and put it on the back and vice versa, but time will tell. Generally speaking though, all is going well even though forward progress has slowed somewhat, this cannot be avoided.
Tomorrow will see us at the tip and the following day we’ll be able to do the 15k commute to the water at the geographical Northernmost point of the Australian continent.
It looks like this..
(https://i.ibb.co/6YBPFRJ/83-F7-D4-B3-23-F6-4868-9-F8-B-DCA4-E518-CD5-F.png) (https://ibb.co/6YBPFRJ)

That will represent 4,000 km from the start.
Then I can turn around and start the lap...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on July 10, 2021, 05:51:27 AM
It has been an impressive journey so far. Whilst we can follow your progress on a map we can only imagine the difficulties that each day brings. This trip reminds me of the saying "how do you eat an elephant - one mouthful at a time".
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 10, 2021, 06:01:21 AM
It has been an impressive journey so far. Whilst we can follow your progress on a map we can only imagine the difficulties that each day brings. This trip reminds me of the saying "how do you eat an elephant - one mouthful at a time".
’Sounds like a reasonable take on things mate...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Jorg66 on July 10, 2021, 08:16:25 AM
Very Prime !! All the Best and Enjoy !!!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Sye on July 10, 2021, 10:35:43 AM
Keep up the good work. It's a tough task no question but I envy your opportunity and salute your attitude. Onwards an upwards 👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 11, 2021, 03:28:33 AM
Thanks Sye.
Today we set off from Archer River to do the 375 or so km to get to the top. That plan was thwarted by the fact that the road is so bad you are forced down to 10 kph in places and most of the time not above 25. Tomorrow is the same by all accounts.
There are some sealed sections when entering and exiting stations, but precious few.
We plan to be on the road at an early hour and surely to goodness tomorrow should see us there.
Have not seen much today, except for this chance encounter..
(https://i.ibb.co/CW1SBF0/FA1-EE399-CA53-48-C1-9-D0-B-D9-E70-D8-C0-ACC.jpg) (https://ibb.co/CW1SBF0)

(https://i.ibb.co/JRGH4Mg/A6622-FC2-7924-4-F5-C-A036-5-A47760-FB3-F1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JRGH4Mg)

(https://i.ibb.co/SncnxHB/A518-F36-D-B317-4967-9-D56-65-FBFD151152.jpg) (https://ibb.co/SncnxHB)

Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Murray on July 11, 2021, 06:32:56 AM
Almost fully grown! The kinda nope rope you are happy to have around the house.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on July 11, 2021, 09:05:05 AM
What kind of snake is that?
Hopefully not the kind that likes to share your sleeping bag at night 😩🤞
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 11, 2021, 09:10:50 AM
I think it’s a harmless Python Dan.
And yes, they do and have...! :sad:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: v85lover on July 11, 2021, 09:15:40 AM
I think it’s a harmless Python Dan.
And yes, they do and have...! :sad:

Yeah just harmless carpet python I had one of these guys for while, I would have picked it up and chased you with it huzo haha
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Muzz on July 12, 2021, 05:13:14 AM
Hope that tire is holding up Pete.  Looks a bit desolate up there.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Scout63 on July 12, 2021, 07:50:05 AM
How’s the food Pete?  Really enjoying this journey.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: PJPR01 on July 12, 2021, 11:36:19 AM
This has all the makings of an excellent documentary Peter.  Loving the pictures so far...I have to say the "backrests" you guys have rigged up look quite comfortable, I imagine you leaning back, sipping a cold one, and driving with your feet, while avoiding all of the animals on the road! 

I'm guessing the rear tire is wearing so much faster due to all of the weight on the back...any chance of repositioning that a bit to ease the accelerated wear?

Keep up the vlog...enjoying it a bunch!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: ozarquebus on July 13, 2021, 09:00:24 PM
That is slick calculus trick to mentally estimate travel time. In trying to do that for 70mph with miles, the best I can do is dividing distance in miles by 7 and multiplying by 6, which is too tough for my brain to do easily without paper.

Does anyone else have a quick mental formula for doing your trick in miles?

 I guess if I went 60 or 120mph it would be easy.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Murray on July 14, 2021, 06:02:36 AM
That is slick calculus trick to mentally estimate travel time. In trying to do that for 70mph with miles, the best I can do is dividing distance in miles by 7 and multiplying by 6, which is too tough for my brain to do easily without paper.

Does anyone else have a quick mental formula for doing your trick in miles?

 I guess if I went 60 or 120mph it would be easy.

100 kp/h = 10kms every six minutes 50kp/h is therefore 5km's every six minutes or 12min per 10kph, 110 (which is 68mph) + 10% so 11kms per six minutes.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: ozarquebus on July 14, 2021, 07:13:17 AM
I understand the "6 minute" principle, but how do you do it as simply and elegantly as HUZO, but going 85 mph and travelling in miles? In practical terms, for example how do you easily divide 365 miles to go at 85 mph mentally while riding?
 Obviously you just divide 365 by 85 to get 4.3 hrs or divide 365 by 8 and multiply by 6 to get to get 274 min, but that is hard on my noggin without pencil or calculator.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Murray on July 14, 2021, 08:18:26 AM
I understand the "6 minute" principle, but how do you do it as simply and elegantly as HUZO, but going 85 mph and travelling in miles? In practical terms, for example how do you easily divide 365 miles to go at 85 mph mentally while riding?
 Obviously you just divide 365 by 85 to get 4.3 hrs or divide 365 by 8 and multiply by 6 to get to get 274 min, but that is hard on my noggin without pencil or calculator.

On the long flat expanses of Australia you have plenty of time to think, the other thing is to settle for close enough 6mph = 10% of 60mph so 66, 72,78, 84, 90 all work out. There is a reason the rest of the world use metric. Sure it might take a couple of mins what else would you do on a postie bike on a long trip, all you need is to get it into top gear and hold the throttle flat.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 15, 2021, 01:39:04 AM
Hi guys, Ian and I are parked up at Archer River on the way back down.
Ann has rung the Honda blokes in Mareeba and new tyres are on the go.
They wii go on around Tuesday.
Ian and I have become quite  adept at adjusting our “speed” to suit the corrugations. The problem is for me at least, and Ian I’m sure, is that if you select a speed that enables you to “skim” over the tops and then you see that they are getting deeper, you are required to get your speed down damn fast before you go into them, “arse up” is the technical term as Ian has just informed me.
We are both a bit maggoted so expect more than the usual amount of common sense from me.
Any way here are some shots.
(https://i.ibb.co/6XZHxgj/543-A95-A9-2-F80-475-C-B8-E0-4375-E701-E910.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6XZHxgj) (https://i.ibb.co/gm7SFRW/4-F07-DBDD-5262-4878-8-A1-C-3-E1-F06-AF01-CB.jpg) (https://ibb.co/gm7SFRW) (https://i.ibb.co/17L7sRg/7-CD3-B573-BEFF-4688-8384-48-FAFF6-AD3-BD.jpg) (https://ibb.co/17L7sRg) (https://i.ibb.co/Br4XfNF/BC7117-CC-3-EDB-431-C-B738-327071-A9-FEB6.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Br4XfNF) (https://i.ibb.co/1nRQ2pZ/93283-D99-1405-445-D-990-D-0735647-AC45-F.jpg) (https://ibb.co/1nRQ2pZ) (https://i.ibb.co/Gtzxqdv/A2-D97-A97-F21-D-410-A-8-AB7-10-E76-A68-C69-E.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Gtzxqdv) (https://i.ibb.co/DQWv1cZ/C21-A7-D5-B-6-FE5-4-B10-8-B1-C-DD2-D80449-AB6.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DQWv1cZ) (https://i.ibb.co/VTBMnNg/D52-AE6-A6-3-CEA-473-B-B03-D-9-A8687-AD6-C48.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VTBMnNg) (https://i.ibb.co/NTymGr4/51-C867-D5-C0-E5-416-A-9063-CB24-BC098-F9-D.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NTymGr4) (https://i.ibb.co/ZMnzDcW/A6-B15-A0-D-79-A4-432-A-A441-635-EB948430-F.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ZMnzDcW) (https://i.ibb.co/N6LnTrb/C5-CBB1-AA-602-C-429-F-966-A-8-B4836-AE769-D.jpg) (https://ibb.co/N6LnTrb)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on July 15, 2021, 02:15:05 AM
Bloody well done if I may say so myself. It looks like those years of gutter jumping, out running dogs, avoiding wheelie bins and swooping magpies have paid off. The next time a letter takes two weeks to get from Melbourne to my place I will send Australia post this thread, and explain it would have been quicker just to give it to a bloke on a postie bike and he could ride it up. 

I guess it is just the short run home from here, just remember to keep the coast on your right hand side and stop when you get to your place  :boozing:.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 15, 2021, 02:18:50 AM
Bloody well done if I may say so myself. It looks like those years of gutter jumping, out running dogs, avoiding wheelie bins and swooping magpies have paid off. The next time a letter takes two weeks to get from Melbourne to my place I will send Australia post this thread, and explain it would have been quicker just to give it to a bloke on a postie bike and he could ride it up. 

I guess it is just the short run home from here, just remember to keep the coast on your right hand side and stop when you get to your place  :boozing:.
You’re a funny bastard Reidy...(and quite on point as it happens...).
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 15, 2021, 05:21:09 AM
Oh...
Forgot.
(https://i.ibb.co/nB4YYQg/D72-FF5-FD-55-D1-4-A16-9-AE8-5-BC2-F4-CBA9-DD.png) (https://ibb.co/nB4YYQg)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Sye on July 15, 2021, 05:58:09 AM
Oh...
Forgot.
(https://i.ibb.co/nB4YYQg/D72-FF5-FD-55-D1-4-A16-9-AE8-5-BC2-F4-CBA9-DD.png) (https://ibb.co/nB4YYQg)


GET IN!, 25% (ish) covered. Not far now :grin: and the easiest bit is at the end. Cracking journey and good progress so far. You will have worked out the meaning of life before you're done.

Hope the lock downs don't affect you too much.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 17, 2021, 06:49:24 PM
Well..
Back down to here.
(https://i.ibb.co/wM5g2FR/BA29-E17-F-A4-F8-4-FD6-B5-EA-DB81-B9763-A3-D.png) (https://ibb.co/wM5g2FR)

(https://i.ibb.co/wrSpq78/A20-B2-D31-8945-4072-BDA9-D2-C30207-C8-D9.png) (https://ibb.co/wrSpq78)

Done 5,700 k so far and the Honda is running well.
The off-road tyres that I put on in Charters Towers disappeared faster than I’d anticipated to the point wher the front had more than had half gone and the rear more so. With the same amount of k’s still to travel to get back to where I could fit new ones, I did the only thing I could think of and tore them off manually and swapped front to back.
This is the front one with 100 k still to go.
(https://i.ibb.co/Hd2nCBX/DA22-CA7-F-85-F6-4-CAC-9-C13-B791771171-E5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Hd2nCBX)

Fair dinkum, it steers like the Exxon Valdeez.....(but doesn’t leak as much oil...)
The handling is positively whorendous, but I think I will make it.
There may be a barrier to entering West Australia from a - point of view, but if so I can come down through Northern Territiory into South Oz which will still make about 10,000 k.
Here is a shot of the tip..
https://youtu.be/ZYfVXX56nDI
Ian on his CT 200 https://youtu.be/8ZAgQf_kolc
And this.. https://youtu.be/nArG2P_ZjB0

Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Guzzi Gal on July 17, 2021, 06:58:54 PM
I'm enjoying every minute of your ride from my comfy couch. :bow:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on July 17, 2021, 07:05:40 PM
Hang tough Peter👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 22, 2021, 07:03:12 AM
Well guys, it’s been a while but here we are again.
Just a note too about Ian (Bat11), he has done every bit as much as I have on this trip, so we may be able to look forward to his version of events as well.
Anyway, I find myself here..
(https://i.ibb.co/VVmRkdF/3-F9-B8669-B415-4962-B94-A-81-CA77180-F02.png) (https://ibb.co/VVmRkdF)

(https://i.ibb.co/0qh7xRz/B350-AE96-349-A-49-BE-81-A1-29227-C74-A033.png) (https://ibb.co/0qh7xRz)

I do hope that border closures do not impact too heavily, but crossing into Western Australia is not a foregone conclusion. Getting into the Northern Territory SHOULD not be a problem, so I will pursue that as the next goal.
But the bike...
I stopped a day or so back and had a bit of a look over the little beast and noticed this rather important piece of kit missing..
(https://i.ibb.co/HzP5WXX/EE7-E3-D15-5-DE1-420-B-9-DE0-E85735-C5358-C.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HzP5WXX)

Bugger it all...!
But a bit of an enquiry at then pub that evening, led to the incalculably good news that ....”there’s a bloke around at the Shire workshop that’ll dig somethin’ up..” and that’s exactly what happened..!
Bright eyed and bushy tailed at the appointed hour of 7:00 am, I burst onto the scene at the gates of the place and was greeted by the person who would bail me out.
Across the road and into the tomb like shed, disappeared my saviour and out he came waving the precious bolt above his head in joyful triumph.
YOU BLOODY LITTLE BEAUTY...! I suggested as he thrust the incomprehensively valuable item into my paw and refused any recompense...
Outback Australians are a different bunch...I love them.
After upending another cappuccino and bacon and eggs into my pie hole, I coaxed the 110 into life and launched into the great unknown. The morning was crisp and the Honda was singing it’s one note song at a cruisey 75 kph...
Just perfect.

I feel that I am at last mentally in time with the relatively modest cruising speed of the bike. For quite a while I was carrying a false impression of my estimated arrival time at the next intended destination, but now I feel like the speed I’m doing is appropriate and I do not hold a desire to go faster.
Slurping less than 3 litres/100 km and requiring very little oil between changes at 2,500-3,000 km, I think I’m treating the little bike ok and I have a lot of confidence in it’s ability...
But here’s a thought.
I have become aware, that the little bike “feels” the contours of the land, more so than the big bike and “tells” you what it can do and what it cannot. I do feel more attuned to it’s needs than perhaps the Norge, because it is more at your mercy than the big one.
If it’s not too much of a romantic notion, I feel more a part of a “team” with the Honda than a demanding master, imposing my will as I do on the bigger bike.
I’m 7,500 k into the trip and enjoying the new challenges and emotions. It is as good as I’d hoped and remarkably similar.
Here are some opportunity shots.
(https://i.ibb.co/gzPq9Zx/17829-DD2-2472-44-C6-969-E-94-B9-E504-D866.jpg) (https://ibb.co/gzPq9Zx)

(https://i.ibb.co/HzP5WXX/EE7-E3-D15-5-DE1-420-B-9-DE0-E85735-C5358-C.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HzP5WXX)

(https://i.ibb.co/HB7n9Ld/7-BFEB03-D-69-A4-4380-B860-8-D8-F85925-C78.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HB7n9Ld)

(https://i.ibb.co/VSj0ctv/E821-F4-CB-D4-CD-400-B-AD24-253-ECCE82355.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VSj0ctv)

(https://i.ibb.co/kxBmpNd/706-CA759-1-B28-48-A7-942-B-BA04-A2293250.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kxBmpNd)

(https://i.ibb.co/b6BXzsF/EEB9-E771-7591-4707-9301-2-A61-BAF4997-C.jpg) (https://ibb.co/b6BXzsF)

Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on July 22, 2021, 07:52:56 AM
Pete, looks like you are meeting the challenges head on as they come at you👍
Here’s a little something that you can laugh about as you and the little Honda make your way along.
The last time you called me I was on another call that I had to finish. After that call was over, without thinking and being excited to talk with you, I just hit redial. We had a great 72 minutes conversation that day as it was just before your trip.
A few days ago my wife yelled at me from another room “WHO IN THE HELL DID YOU TALK TO ON ANOTHER CONTINENT FOR 72 MINUTE FOR THE COST OF 178.00 dollars”
OH crap!! Then I remembered what I had done!!
Can you tell me again how your wife gets those free international minutes???
It’s worked out ok. Wife called the cell phone provider and told them her elderly Father , with a mental disorder had accidentally called some guy in Australia that was long winded in conversation and ask for consideration with the bill.
They granted us half price, this time.
I hope this brightens your ride for at least 100 miles.
Be safe my friend 👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: nick949 on July 22, 2021, 12:23:50 PM
Excellent story Huzo, especially the Outback bolt fix.  I've adopted Pippin's philosophy from LOTR
"The closer we are to danger, the farther we are from harm."
Stay well and safe travels.

Nick
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: PJPR01 on July 22, 2021, 01:06:56 PM
WHO IN THE HELL DID YOU TALK TO ON ANOTHER CONTINENT FOR 72 MINUTE FOR THE COST OF 178.00 dollars”
Can you tell me again how your wife gets those free international minutes???


Install Skype...you can talk for pennies per minute around the world, or for free if it's computer to computer...you can even load Skype onto your Smartphone.

 :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 22, 2021, 01:28:45 PM
At the time Dan, I recall mentioning that I could call you back, so I thought when you said not to bother, that you were ok.
Ann has 5 hrs free international calls per month on her plan.
But you can face time anywhere in the world for the cost of the equivalent time on the internet, just like Skype as mentioned.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on July 22, 2021, 02:19:37 PM
At the time Dan, I recall mentioning that I could call you back, so I thought when you said not to bother, that you were ok.
Ann has 5 hrs free international calls per month on her plan.
But you can face time anywhere in the world for the cost of the equivalent time on the internet, just like Skype as mentioned.
Hey buddy, I ain’t complaining. Talking to you was worth every penny👍
Heck I’d pay that to watch a monkey hump a football😂😂😂😉👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: pete mcgee on July 22, 2021, 03:56:47 PM
Hey buddy, I ain’t complaining. Talking to you was worth every penny👍
Heck I’d pay that to watch a monkey hump a football😂😂😂😉👍
A basketball do?
Send money now......
https://youtu.be/-RBNCFlJ_2M

😁
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on July 22, 2021, 06:19:41 PM
I feel that I am at last mentally in time with the relatively modest cruising speed of the bike. For quite a while I was carrying a false impression of my estimated arrival time at the next intended destination, but now I feel like the speed I’m doing is appropriate and I do not hold a desire to go faster.

Thanks for the update Huzo. I was only thinking this morning, I wonder how Huzo is going, I should sent him a message.
I have guoted a sentence from your update. By my rough calculations it took you about 3 weeks to get to that point. Apparently it takes about 6 weeks to form new habits and break old habits. I can't help wondering how many days, weeks or months it takes on your return to reverse your new found perspective.

I have only just come to realise that this is a three part trip. Planning and preparation, a quick lap around the block and then returning home. 
My wife only said to me the other day, why did you not man up and do the trip. She had a good point but this way you get to do all of the hard work and we get to participate from the comfort of our own home. Again thanks for update.

Steve 
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 22, 2021, 07:35:54 PM
You know how well I know you, I would not presume to tell you to “Man up...”
If you want, I can clip WA off the menu and we could do Qld..
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on July 22, 2021, 09:06:01 PM
Thanks for the offer, I am intending to plan my own adventure for next year. It will be baby steps compared to this one but it will be getting back on the iron horse so to speak. It will be a bit dependent on what the local world looks like and if I have a bike I am building finished. If the bike is finished I will take it, if not it will be the Bonneville.

Hopefully by then we will be rid of our insurance company. Our roof was destroyed last October in a big hail storm. Last week saw the shed roof replaced and the solar put back on. We are down to just the water tank and internal ceilings to be painted. The holes in the gyprock were patched the other week. Also we will paint the tile roof as the insurance company just replaced 850 of our roof tiles with what they class as a "similar" colour. The colour looks very close on a moonless night if you are wearing dark glasses :laugh:.   

For now I am enjoying watching and learning.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 23, 2021, 03:58:16 PM
Thanks for the offer, I am intending to plan my own adventure for next year. It will be baby steps compared to this one but it will be getting back on the iron horse so to speak. It will be a bit dependent on what the local world looks like and if I have a bike I am building finished. If the bike is finished I will take it, if not it will be the Bonneville.

Hopefully by then we will be rid of our insurance company. Our roof was destroyed last October in a big hail storm. Last week saw the shed roof replaced and the solar put back on. We are down to just the water tank and internal ceilings to be painted. The holes in the gyprock were patched the other week. Also we will paint the tile roof as the insurance company just replaced 850 of our roof tiles with what they class as a "similar" colour. The colour looks very close on a moonless night if you are wearing dark glasses :laugh:.   

For now I am enjoying watching and learning.

Steve
No worries mate.
When you’re up and about, I’ll come up on the Norge or ‘85 and say hi.
Check this out from Camooweal, the cows will eat your car...!

(https://i.ibb.co/ydzhdBL/B9987586-672-B-4348-9-FE1-822-F4-AFA82-AE.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ydzhdBL)


I am up to here and as you can see I’m about to cross into Northern Territory.
My on line application is complete and I’m quietly confident that it’ll be ok. About 9,000 k’s in and the bike is good, although I have taken to carrying a spare tyre in case I’m in an area where I can’t obtain one.
Early morning departures......Don’t you love ‘em..?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 26, 2021, 10:13:11 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/4f5K2wg/405-EEE95-674-C-4684-9155-2-C5758-E1-AFE0.jpg) (https://ibb.co/4f5K2wg) (https://i.ibb.co/jbkWCdg/2-FA2-A8-AE-2-AC7-42-DE-AC71-9-F04-BF969-E0-B.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jbkWCdg) (https://i.ibb.co/8Xnkq9d/858-BE239-04-C9-4-FE2-B12-F-65-CE9340-D5-FF.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8Xnkq9d) (https://i.ibb.co/r3MDzLt/40-B89-F25-2499-4216-A9-D8-0-C6-E3-AF68393.jpg) (https://ibb.co/r3MDzLt) (https://i.ibb.co/DY2fYP4/7-E84-A7-F2-231-D-4662-8-A5-F-F214-A1-DA14-E8.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DY2fYP4) (https://i.ibb.co/D4BBS5y/28-E3-BE33-C782-4-D83-AB8-D-D03898-F06286.jpg) (https://ibb.co/D4BBS5y) (https://i.ibb.co/LtcSQTw/EFFF3-E29-DA02-4016-BA78-83-E99-F94791-D.jpg) (https://ibb.co/LtcSQTw) (https://i.ibb.co/yQLZWk2/F1-F37-F27-C4-D2-4-AD3-BD65-2-D47687-D3-C5-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/yQLZWk2)
Here’s the latest..
I am currently in Katherine
(https://i.ibb.co/JKny5xc/1-DF1-AEB9-CF93-4312-B0-BA-D2087933984-D.png) (https://ibb.co/JKny5xc)

It is about halfway ‘round in distance, but probably a bit more in time.
But - has not written it’s final line as we speak..
Because I spent time in Queensland which is a declared hotspot by Western Australia, I must not enter W.A. until I have been in Northern Territory for 14 days, so far it has been 4 going on 5.
Now given that it is 2 days from here to the border, I cannot recommence my journey for 7 days... :clock:
I know there is a good side to that as well so I will focus on that area.
Speeds and distances have re adjusted in my mind to the point that 75 kph seems right and 450 a day seems enough, it didn’t take as long as I thought.
Just a random selection of there really isn’t much other than thousands of kilometres of straight roads and bush scrub, the Kimberley is soaked with nice spots, but that’s a way off yet.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on July 27, 2021, 01:58:39 AM
I have spent quite a bit of time at Katherine over the years, there is a small flying club just out of town :laugh:. I received a text from a mate last night. He was at the Daly Waters Pub. It looks like they have a nice collection of bikes and Bras there. He should be in Katherine tomorrowarvo.

Unless things have changed, avoid the main street on Wednesday morning. Some people get paid and try and drink it all by lunch time. It would not be a bad part of the world to spend a day out at the gorge or the caves. If you need to kill an extra two days before heading west I hear the Mindil Beach Markets in Darwin do a good feed on Thursday night. Nothing like a good feed of Asian a quite beer and watching the sun set over the water.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: j.davis on July 27, 2021, 04:27:40 AM
Spend a few 'daze' in Darwin.
Watching a lady on uTube that's just been through Kathrine area, and spent her time in the bush and still couldn't get away from the RV's and caravans.
Also a past member of the Local Flying Club.


(https://i.ibb.co/MZ9VLCY/20170209-JOD-3830.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MZ9VLCY)




(https://i.ibb.co/nLKPM3g/20170209-JOD-3876.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nLKPM3g)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 27, 2021, 04:59:20 PM
Just one question , does Roper know he owns a bar that doesn't serve alcohol , and how does that work ?
Actually, he’s cutting down...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 27, 2021, 05:15:30 PM
I’ve just shoved two bits of raisin toast and a coffee into my pie hole and I’m reckoning on going to Darwin for a piece of Barramundi.
I may even do the 350 k in two halves, just to burn more time.
(https://i.ibb.co/dDdQsy5/0-BC9-DF28-3-D57-49-C8-92-CB-B4-D310-A35-A4-D.png) (https://ibb.co/dDdQsy5)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: elrealistico on July 27, 2021, 05:55:58 PM
Had some barramundi for the first time awhile back. Blackened, was pretty good. Someone told me it's the fish most used in Oz for fish and chips, like cod in the US/UK
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 27, 2021, 06:58:46 PM
Had some barramundi for the first time awhile back. Blackened, was pretty good. Someone told me it's the fish most used in Oz for fish and chips, like cod in the US/UK
Could be true, but I’ve always thought flake, which is the working man’s choice, was shark.
But possibly not..
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: stubbie on July 27, 2021, 08:52:48 PM
Barramundi and chips? Must be another drop bears story. Not likely, to expensive. Flake is the one they use. Huzo, grab yourself a buffalo steak while your there.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: pete mcgee on July 28, 2021, 02:14:11 AM
Buff and barra with garlc prawns.
Lots of great places to eat up there.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 28, 2021, 03:06:15 AM
I’ll film myself stuffing my pie hole at the wharf in Darwin.
Currently in Adelaide River...(nowhere near Adelaide), taking it all VERY slowly. I just found out on the - hotline, that there has to be 14 complete days of occupancy in NT, to qualify for entry to WA.
So the entry and exit days for NT do not count in the 14.....Jeeezzzz....!
Anywaaayyyy.
(https://i.ibb.co/gj8p2r7/7-ECC0-C83-B324-4-B7-F-987-D-8862-A97-CF582.png) (https://ibb.co/gj8p2r7)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on July 28, 2021, 03:17:52 AM
There should be a few snapping handbags around there. For our overseas readers you may need to google it if you are not fluent in Australian.
Just put in Adelaide River Snapping Handbag and check out images. It is safe for work so don't worry.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 28, 2021, 05:37:55 AM
Would you consider this old fella’ a typical example ?
(https://i.ibb.co/9Vb611p/C2-B7247-A-3942-441-F-89-B6-351-E7-A6214-D7.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9Vb611p)

A little under developed @ 5.0 metres....!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on July 28, 2021, 05:45:32 AM
No, you may have posted the wrong picture. It looks like either a table or a bed if you have breakdown on the side of the road.



Now that the picture has changed I will go with a yes  :laugh:.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: pete mcgee on July 28, 2021, 04:07:25 PM
Pete,
The roads through Litchfield NP seem to have been designed by a motorcyclist, well worth the look, lits of great waterfalls to look at as well.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 28, 2021, 04:34:37 PM
Pete,
The roads through Litchfield NP seem to have been designed by a motorcyclist, well worth the look, lits of great waterfalls to look at as well.
Yeah mate.
I’m currently lying in bed listening to the Kookaburras. You can see where I am.
(https://i.ibb.co/4RNqd9X/F6-A9795-F-A79-F-4-F85-98-AA-00-C6-E4-FA171-C.png) (https://ibb.co/4RNqd9X)

I reckon that is a good idea..! I will see if I can get my knee down on the CT.... :popcorn:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 28, 2021, 04:36:47 PM
No, you may have posted the wrong picture. It looks like either a table or a bed if you have breakdown on the side of the road.

Steve
jeez...
Lucky the camera didn’t go off 20 seconds earlier...! :embarrassed: :embarrassed: :embarrassed:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on July 29, 2021, 03:45:36 AM
No, you may have posted the wrong picture. It looks like either a table or a bed if you have breakdown on the side of the road.



Now that the picture has changed I will go with a yes  :laugh:.

Steve
Well spotted.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on July 29, 2021, 04:34:10 AM
I am not much of a fisherman, but I remember one day fishing on the south Alligator river. I was with a group of work colleagues and we had got hold of a small tinnie.  We had been out for most of the day and had not seen any crocodiles but did see evidence that they were around. Due to bad planning we were heading back to the boat ramp just after dusk. As we shone the torch around the river and riverbank seemed full of red eyes.   

To be honest I am not sure of what I thought was going to cause the most damage. The salties, the 15 million mosquitos, the dehydration or the fact that one of the blokes in the boat thought a dozen or so beers would make his day more enjoyable, and kept trying to stand up and risk tiping the boat over. I don't think I have been fishing since.   

Enjoy Darwin, I don't think I would recognise it now. It was getting a bit modern last time I was their. There is a good Air museum at 557 Stuart Hwy, Winnellie NT.

Steve 
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 03, 2021, 01:18:46 AM
I have been forced to spend 14 days in the NT before entering West Australia.
I have returned to Katherine and am leaving to head West in the morning towards the border. It certainly is a relief to be heading in the right direction again. I cannot cross until Sunday morning, but my documentation is in place and has been approved.
If nothing changes in the next few days, I should make it across.

I have been reading the exploits of a certain Nathan Millward, who rode from Sydney to London on 4 days notice, I was interested to see that his distance was not monumentally greater than my Oz lap @ 22,000 km.
The main issue with retracing his steps is understanding border issues, but other than documentation requirements, I cannot see what is unachievable about doing the same.
That would be a hoot.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on August 03, 2021, 03:31:07 AM
The book is a good read, I am not sure if you have finished it. I thought about that distance when I read the book. I think the main difference is you are doing it all in Australia, which is a reasonably civilized country. Well maybe after some of the idiots I dealt with today. You are most likely doing it on a sensible budget. It would appear he tried to do this on a shoe string budget.

My mate decided to kill time from Katherine he went south for a bit then cut across somewhere and is heading for the Gibb river road.

Steve 
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 03, 2021, 03:49:05 AM
The book is a good read, I am not sure if you have finished it. I thought about that distance when I read the book. I think the main difference is you are doing it all in Australia, which is a reasonably civilized country. Well maybe after some of the idiots I dealt with today. You are most likely doing it on a sensible budget. It would appear he tried to do this on a shoe string budget.

My mate decided to kill time from Katherine he went south for a bit then cut across somewhere and is heading for the Gibb river road.

Steve
It’s just piqued my interest mate.
If I knew the border and - issues were sorted, there isn’t much else that held too much fear.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 03, 2021, 03:50:32 AM
My mate decided to kill time from Katherine he went south for a bit then cut across somewhere and is heading for the Gibb river road.
Steve
What is he on ?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on August 03, 2021, 04:29:54 AM
Red Nissan Nevara with caravan in tow. His wife is in the passengers seat. I have told him to keep an eye out for you. He is well into his 60's.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 03, 2021, 04:33:08 AM
Red Nissan Nevara with caravan in tow. His wife is in the passengers seat. I have told him to keep an eye out for you. He is well into his 60's.

Steve
So am I mate..
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 05, 2021, 07:40:56 PM
I am doing my second last day of forced confinement in Northern Territory. I have this
(https://i.ibb.co/c8TJs48/F024-F204-294-C-4581-85-B7-B5077-B4-FB2-C4.png) (https://ibb.co/c8TJs48)
and this
(https://i.ibb.co/rd5Tzy9/B42-C58-D3-3-A69-4-F5-A-AF81-6-E07-B16-F9968.png) (https://ibb.co/rd5Tzy9)

That by all accounts is enough.
I did a bit of a day catching up on a couple of things on the bike yesterday, the camchain sounded a bit slappy and I replaced the oil from 10W40 to 20W50.
When pulling up hot, the internal clicking and whizzing seemed a little more noticeable and after cooling down a bit, there was no evidence of any such sounds, so I’m thinking that the oil was getting a bit thin at such temperatures.
I hope this reasoning is sound.
The last tyre I fitted in Mareeba has now done about 2,600 k and I think it has another 1000 k left, I’ll assess that when I get to Kununurra and will decide whether to ask it to go as far as Broome. I can fit my spare at a camping park if I have to, but I’m usually reluctant to embark on elective surgery at such places. If you lose a nut or strip a thread, it is just better to be “somewhere”.

It’s funny how you morph into stages without being aware of it.
I just had a conversation with a bloke about free ‘phone calls in NT which Telstra has introduced for their old fashioned boxes. He was a fairly rugged old bloke and not short of a word. When he left I heard him say to his wife..
“I was just talking to that nice gentleman over there.......”

NICE GENTLEMAN......????....!!!!   :rolleyes:

Anyway, it is what it is.
There is a train of thought that has taken hold in my mind that says, the small bike “tells” you what it needs and what it is thinking, if I may be allowed to use the term.
Every slight incline or wind shift, is reflected in the performance whether up or down and you find yourself engaging more with your surrounds, than perhaps you would on the bigger bike. Certainly on the Norge or similar, you can dominate surroundings with a touch of throttle and the wind protection in conjunction with the available power, can lend a remoteness to the experience, the bike is doing the work under you and can go unnoticed to a certain degree.
I haven’t become dissatisfied with the speed potential or the reduced “distance in a day” numbers that the 110 can produce.
It is as I thought it would be...
From here to the finish is 7,500 km and so far I’ve done 10,000 so about 18,000k will be the final number. Given that I have a good idea of the terrain from here on, I can fairly confidently say that it will be easier from here on if all the mechanicals stay intact. The 4 days forced layup has been good, but I really do want to start moving west from here.
There aren’t too many more impressions I can give that hold much interest, but it’s been fun so far....
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on August 05, 2021, 08:21:58 PM
Pete, you will be able to write a book about your adventure someday and I want to buy an autographed copy👍
Keep up the good work my friend!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 05, 2021, 09:30:02 PM
Pete, you will be able to write a book about your adventure someday and I want to buy an autographed copy👍
Keep up the good work my friend!
It’s funny Dan, but the reality of doing it is not as daunting as the initial prospect seemed.
That Melbourne to London trip does not seem as impossible or improbable as I once thought. As I mentioned before, the only thing I find perplexing are the border procedures.
I would love to ride to the Guzzi celebration in 2022, but I would miss my Norge too much.
It would be a nice project to put a V50 or V35 motor in the 110....
Although this thing REALLY caught my attention...
(https://i.ibb.co/4VYkTHq/16-D5-BBF0-5-E99-4-D0-D-A843-C7-FA8-BC3-D555.png) (https://ibb.co/4VYkTHq)

(https://i.ibb.co/mDL9qDV/CEB8-EB9-C-D8-B0-4327-B384-E32-A6186-E98-E.png) (https://ibb.co/mDL9qDV)

(https://i.ibb.co/L0rSXyk/F30-A1-CB5-80-D4-4-C86-8-F0-F-F701-AADDCED3.png) (https://ibb.co/L0rSXyk)

(https://i.ibb.co/WDT6X2n/80436-DA1-F949-46-D6-B87-F-F623-E156-DD6-C.png) (https://ibb.co/WDT6X2n)

BTW..
That right hand turn felt good to be heading in the right direction again.
(https://i.ibb.co/DK5rK2K/2-D03658-E-CDA7-4-DE4-ACAB-2414-ED8-EC459.png) (https://ibb.co/DK5rK2K)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: huub on August 06, 2021, 05:52:08 AM
absolutely amazing adventure ,
gives us over here a great insight of what the other side of our planet looks like.
Thanks for posting, keep the reports coming!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 08, 2021, 08:30:45 AM
The iron...
(https://i.ibb.co/4gFdT9b/B5315-DA4-0625-49-CA-8878-AE5239-C1-ADCB.jpg) (https://ibb.co/4gFdT9b)

(https://i.ibb.co/pPxty4L/19-F0-F979-2988-42-CB-A85-C-5-F05-DFA7175-C.jpg) (https://ibb.co/pPxty4L)

and the irony

(https://i.ibb.co/cCqT3Pp/532125-AA-8759-496-B-97-FD-73-CF2-DDBBA94.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cCqT3Pp)

I guess it had to happen eventually
(https://i.ibb.co/P9VmjZk/2258307-B-5378-4-BC7-B5-F2-94-B75-CE05-C85.jpg) (https://ibb.co/P9VmjZk)

Routine tyre change.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on August 08, 2021, 01:32:33 PM
Looks like a lonely place you’re in buddy.
Be safe out there 👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: tazio on August 08, 2021, 05:16:50 PM
Huzo, have the spokes not needed any attention at all?!
Amazing, and about average at the same time.
One hell of a Backup Bike for sure!
Roll on, man. ROLL ON!! :thumb: :bike-037:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 08, 2021, 07:00:40 PM
Huzo, have the spokes not needed any attention at all?!
Amazing, and about average at the same time.
One hell of a Backup Bike for sure!
Roll on, man. ROLL ON!! :thumb: :bike-037:
No mate, they still go “PING” when I tap them, quite surprising given 800 km of corrugations, but that was at around 20 kph.
Just having breakfast at 8:00 am and today is a 400 km day.
The bike has done NOTHING wrong..This was the last few days.
(https://i.ibb.co/4s6rrrm/6637-B46-E-00-A9-4-BDD-8-FC2-50-F8769669-E2.png) (https://ibb.co/4s6rrrm)

Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Sye on August 09, 2021, 02:03:25 AM
 :bow: :bow: :bow: Epic journey and must be very therapeutic. One of the reasons I love riding is time to myself, just me and the bike. Life can be so occupying most of the time. You must be enjoying the solitude and challenge.  :bow: :bow: :bow:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 09, 2021, 03:46:56 AM
:bow: :bow: :bow: Epic journey and must be very therapeutic. One of the reasons I love riding is time to myself, just me and the bike. Life can be so occupying most of the time. You must be enjoying the solitude and challenge.  :bow: :bow: :bow:
Very much so Sye.
Also the little bike makes you think more about the “partnership” that you have on the road.
It requires more respect from you than does a big bike, it would be easy to hurt it if you showed a callous disregard for it’s needs and capabilities.
But we are getting on well.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on August 09, 2021, 04:52:56 AM
Well there is no turning back now, probably shorter just to finish it from here. :laugh:
Only two border crossings to go. Are you going to stop after one lap or duck over to Tassie so they don't feel left out.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 09, 2021, 05:31:10 AM
Well there is no turning back now, probably shorter just to finish it from here. :laugh:
Only two border crossings to go. Are you going to stop after one lap or duck over to Tassie so they don't feel left out.

Steve
As the inimitable Sir Les Patterson once said...
There’s only one map of Tasmania I’ll be interested in when I get home.....!
Anyway, moving on...
(https://i.ibb.co/bdsL36p/94-B81863-5867-491-F-9-F60-40-FD09539-BCD.jpg) (https://ibb.co/bdsL36p)

(https://i.ibb.co/JzhnXSY/B6845-B67-36-F1-4-B96-91-CA-AB534-C2-CC9-E3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JzhnXSY)

(https://i.ibb.co/4p3DyYr/FF2-F904-A-DC86-4673-B881-6-A605656943-E.jpg) (https://ibb.co/4p3DyYr)

(https://i.ibb.co/6wDbQNN/DC9-CA5-A5-9-EA7-4-B7-C-9-CD1-00-DDD814-B734.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6wDbQNN)

(https://i.ibb.co/s6qfckB/B04648-D1-90-F4-4-B0-C-A322-22-A39-C842-B36.png) (https://ibb.co/s6qfckB)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 12, 2021, 05:41:04 PM
Yesterday was a fairly big day @ 570 km, about the biggest so far, but not just for the sake of it.
I had a quartering tailwind that was forecast to last all day and if there’s one thing that the little bike loves, it’s a tailwind.
All pretty standard stuff and I’m looking for a place to get another spare tyre after fitting the one I had at Kununurra. There’s just something that feels strange about not having one on hand.
Here’s a funny thing though.

Pecking order.....
In the morning I had an early breakfast at the roadhouse and upon exiting, I noticed a bit of a crowd of bike tourers about my age had gathered around the Honda. They were on Ducati Multistrada’s FJR 1300’s and various UJM’s.
There was one particular guy who just seemed to need to be the centre of attention and I’m not bagging him for that because I’ve received criticism for the same thing on occasions.
But here’s the thing...
He started by throwing verbal barbs in the direction of the scooter and tried to make the whole thing entertaining by attempting to deliver humorous anecdotes...
He failed... :sad:
After listening to a 10 minute condensed version of his life story, to the aparrent discomfort of his cohorts, he ended the soliloqhy with the incalculably valuable news that he was a boxer...(just what I needed to know..).
The awkward grins on the faces of all and sundry served as a kind of unspoken apology about his behaviour.
I made an attempt to engratiate myself to him and asked him about being a boxer and he was happy to chat. I felt moved to mention that a mate of mine who loves dogs also owned a boxer that could make use of his flexible back to attend to a certain function that male dogs can do...(every bloke’s dream... :wink:)
As the group began to slink away sensing the awkwardness, I felt moved to ask him if being a boxer allowed him to perform the same function....?
I don’t think he really was a boxer, or he would have knocked me out.....
Instead he just left..... :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on August 12, 2021, 05:51:32 PM
Sounds like you’re the winner Pete👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 12, 2021, 05:59:06 PM
Sounds like you’re the winner Pete👍
Yeah Dan.
I’ve copped a few back handlers from Dusty over the years, so I thought another one couldn’t hurt...(much..).
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Sye on August 13, 2021, 02:13:52 AM
The phrase "It's better to be thought of as a fool than to open ones mouth and remove all doubt" comes to mind.

Some people feel the need to put others down whenever they can, I've no idea why. Well handled Huzu.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: nick949 on August 13, 2021, 06:37:30 AM
Bravo Huzo (and your bike). Keep rolling. Jealously loving it. :thumb:

Nick
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 14, 2021, 04:31:19 AM
Here.
(https://i.ibb.co/dGx58Kg/AE4-F6115-53-AD-41-A5-B5-EB-FDCA10406-AA9.png) (https://ibb.co/dGx58Kg)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: chuck peterson on August 14, 2021, 06:15:59 AM
I’m imagining how I would feel with only one tire after having the belt and suspenders of two…

Yeeeeeaaahhh that’ll get your attention! Steady on! Still following

Re other folks awkwardness, i take them like water off a ducks back. It’s all entertainment right? I’ve done and been the same at times. I regret them now but I’ve learned to let them go

Furthur


(https://i.ibb.co/DbnxtPp/586-A0-BD3-8-D56-41-F0-8703-C07-F33-F461-DE.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DbnxtPp)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: SIR REAL ED on August 14, 2021, 08:00:39 AM
Yes Dan but you are never really alone, it’s just that most of the time no one is with you.
However, the culture up there is to look out for each other. I’ve been asked about river crossings. “What will you do if the water is too deep..?”
Well, if it’s 6” deep I’ll ride through it..
Then , if it’s 6’ deep I’ll get on the ferry like everyone else.
If it’s 2’6” deep, I’ll stand there until the Toyota Land Cruiser rocks up after 5 minutes with the four young station hands on board with arms like my upper thigh and they’ll say...
“G’day old fella’ are ya’ ok ?”
I’ll say...
“I’m trying to get my bike across”
They’ll say...
“Nah bullshit stand back mate, me and the boys’ll do it, c’mon youse pricks...”
Then they’ll pick it up and carry it across....
That’s how they roll up there.

Just found this thread.  Yep!  Rednecks are good people and natural born problems solvers where ever you go.  Lack of resources is seen as a challenge, not an impediment.

Don't forget to offer to buy them a pint or two after the job is done.  That will add to the experience!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(to Cape..!)
Post by: Huzo on August 14, 2021, 08:50:11 AM
Just found this thread.  Yep!  Rednecks are good people and natural born problems solvers where ever you go.  Lack of resources is seen as a challenge, not an impediment.

Don't forget to offer to buy them a pint or two after the job is done.  That will add to the experience!
That would be the last thing I’d forget.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 18, 2021, 05:26:09 AM
The left turn at Perth has been done and as expected, it felt like somewhat of a pivotal moment.

(https://i.ibb.co/Z2HSwD4/47-C3-B74-F-4663-49-C8-BAD9-31-C0284-E2080.png) (https://ibb.co/Z2HSwD4)

There isn’t any direction to home from here that isn’t predominantly Easterly. It’s odd that every kilometre that passes, seems like it’s ticking down towards zero. I know that it’s all in the mind, but it feels real inside your head.
There is about 4,000 km remaining and that doesn’t seem like a huge thing anymore...(but it is...).
There will be a few good photo opportunities from here, because I’ll be crossing the Nullarbor Plain and that is the Southern Coast of mainland Australia, where the cliffs fall directly into the sea and the road is getting closer every year.
 The edge is very sharp in places, it’s literally two paces between level ground and sheer drop to the churning ocean below and heavily undercut.
I had the 5th rear tyre fitted yesterday and I think that will last the distance to home, but it will be a close run thing.
We’ll see.
I cannot convey what a model of relentless reliability the little Honda has been, the rear axle is still almost at the front of the adjustment range, the damn chain has hardly needed attention.
I am at a loss to explain it.
Easily the biggest trip I’ve ever done in terms of level of perseverance, but it will stand me in good stead for future journeys.
The only real barrier to doing Creswick to London is my lack of understanding of border procedures, but I’m convinced the ride itself is very achievable....
Time will tell...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: 12SCraig on August 18, 2021, 06:50:29 AM
as we say in ausie:
"Go you good thing"
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Muzz on August 18, 2021, 07:25:13 AM
A truly impressive undertaking there Peter. :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Dave Swanson on August 18, 2021, 07:49:41 AM
Loving this!  I suppose you have had an impact on tiddler sales to some small degree.  Butterfly Effect   :azn:...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on August 18, 2021, 08:53:50 AM
Amazing endeavor Pete.
You have single- handedly destroyed many myths on several subjects involving motorcycle sizes, capabilities ,touring methods, and on and on.
I think many arguments in the future will be ended with the phrase “HUZO DID IT”
You’re definitely the man Peter!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: PJPR01 on August 18, 2021, 09:27:46 AM
Huzo...you should make some stickers from your adventure with pictures of the bike/yourself/interesting places.  Round the continent.

I'd buy a couple to put on my tool box here at home, and put on the panniers. 
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 18, 2021, 11:55:08 PM
Huzo...you should make some stickers from your adventure with pictures of the bike/yourself/interesting places.  Round the continent.
I couldn’t do that mate, you know how I hate to draw attention to myself.... :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on August 19, 2021, 02:04:27 AM
I was just thinking, next time you could try this on a PW50 :laugh:. You are making this look to easy on a 110. I hope you have a tailwind for the run across the bottom.

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 19, 2021, 05:04:35 AM
I was just thinking, next time you could try this on a PW50 :laugh:. You are making this look to easy on a 110. I hope you have a tailwind for the run across the bottom.

Steve
Well actually....Like this one ?
(https://i.ibb.co/sPh0yrv/0-E62564-F-F4-FB-47-B0-9-A51-4464752-C7015.png) (https://ibb.co/sPh0yrv)

davis academy (https://nonprofitlight.com/ga/atlanta/alfred-and-adele-davis-academy-inc)

You know that little mini bike thing that they had in Dumb & Dumber..?
I thought, what a hoot to have two of them and head off with another trusted idiot in tow..!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on August 19, 2021, 05:13:23 PM
You know that little mini bike thing that they had in Dumb & Dumber..?
I thought, what a hoot to have two of them and head off with another trusted idiot in tow..!

Lucky I can't be trusted  :laugh:. 
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 19, 2021, 06:40:16 PM
Lucky I can't be trusted  :laugh:.
But you’re ok on the second issue..?
Nearly ready for work..
(https://i.ibb.co/n8Q378T/CB6323-DE-C25-D-4168-90-B3-6-B41691-D7719.jpg) (https://ibb.co/n8Q378T)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on August 20, 2021, 12:17:54 AM
But you’re ok on the second issue..?

So I have been told.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: stubbie on August 20, 2021, 09:10:52 PM
Your moving faster than I thought. Hadn't read the forum for a few days. Was going to come out and have a beer, but anyway maybe next time. Funny, a pic of your bike just popped up on the DOCWA Facebook page with the words "This bloke's from Victoria, 70km's ave speed, Respect". You obviously made an impression.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Muzz on August 21, 2021, 05:04:53 AM
Must almost be time for a map update Peter.  You are obviously covering some ground. :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 22, 2021, 03:20:41 AM
Your moving faster than I thought. Hadn't read the forum for a few days. Was going to come out and have a beer, but anyway maybe next time. Funny, a pic of your bike just popped up on the DOCWA Facebook page with the words "This bloke's from Victoria, 70km's ave speed, Respect". You obviously made an impression.
I don’t know how it got there.
I can’t even spell phacebook...!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 22, 2021, 06:49:39 AM
I’m sorry but my tracker has stopped.......track ing.  :sad:
Anyway, this is where I am in the grand scheme of things.
(https://i.ibb.co/D8tzgdT/9-F9-A89-AB-3-BAF-4-E43-9-FF1-BA220-F493-DF2.png) (https://ibb.co/D8tzgdT)

Also while we’re here, can anyone explain this...(after 15,000 km) ?
(https://i.ibb.co/RN3fLpx/E80295-B8-1434-4-F05-A194-C60-D33-F9-A095.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RN3fLpx)

Ok, I’ll admit I fitted a new o ring chain and sprockets for the preparation, but the damn thing has not needed adjusting..!

The last three days add up to just under 1,500 km. I did some bigger distances because I had a predominantly tail wind and it seemed a shame to waste it.

When I was a young bloke of 14, I had a Honda SL70 exactly the same in every detail as this one..
(https://i.ibb.co/wRtYwLw/93740-EA8-33-E1-424-A-946-D-F4-C072128480.png) (https://ibb.co/wRtYwLw)

Today at 70 kph with a 40 kph tailwind, I could hear the engine clearly above the other noise and my mind went back to when I used to ride (illegally) on the road for about 5 km to get to a mate’s place.
The engine of the 110 sounds identical to the SL70 of yesteryear and I wonder if there’s a subliminal connection to being a kid again..
I used to get up at dawn, make a couple of rounds of Vegemite sandwiches, put them in a Tupperware container and bungee them to the rear of the seat.
Mum used to leave 40 cents on the bench for a tank of fuel and I’d be off at dawn for the whole day...
Nothing’s changed...(‘hope it never does...).. :bike-037:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Sye on August 22, 2021, 07:31:17 AM
That chain should be toast by now! It looks as if it's running in grinding paste, not oil but keeps on going. No explanation from me, just thank your lucky stars and take the win.

I can't believe the progress your making. You must have a backside like an Aberdeen Angus by now.  :bow: :bow:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 22, 2021, 10:43:00 AM
You must have a backside like an Aberdeen Angus by now.  :bow: :bow:
Theirs are cuter... :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: pete mcgee on August 22, 2021, 03:43:23 PM
Well youve lubed the chain and everything ekse within 2 feet......
Seems chain quality has improved over the ones from 40 years ago.
You home yet?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 22, 2021, 03:49:00 PM
Well youve lubed the chain and everything ekse within 2 feet......
Seems chain quality has improved over the ones from 40 years ago.
You home yet?
No.
About 1,300 k left.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Muzz on August 22, 2021, 08:04:24 PM
Epic! :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

So much for "you can't tour on anything less than 1000cc". :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on August 22, 2021, 09:35:36 PM
Epic! :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

So much for "you can't tour on anything less than 1000cc". :laugh: :laugh:
Like I said a few posts back, the new phrase when you Want to shut someone down in an argumentative is going to be “Huzo done it”
👍👍👍
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: stubbie on August 22, 2021, 10:08:33 PM
One of those blokes you spoke about with the Multistrada and being a boxer must have been a member of DOCWA.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Muzz on August 23, 2021, 12:30:26 AM
Like I said a few posts back, the new phrase when you Want to shut someone down in an argumentative is going to be “Huzo done it”
👍👍👍

I will remember that Dan. :thumb: :grin:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: reidy on August 23, 2021, 02:16:07 AM
I would just like to confirm a few facts about taking a trip like this.
a. Since - has changed things, it is impossible to go on a long interstate motorcycle trip.
b. Shaft drive is preferred to chain for long distance touring.
c. If I am going on a long tour I should get a dedicated touring bike.
 
I think I have it clear in my head now  :laugh:

Steve
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 23, 2021, 04:13:14 AM
I would just like to confirm a few facts about taking a trip like this.
a. Since - has changed things, it is impossible to go on a long interstate motorcycle trip.
b. Shaft drive is preferred to chain for long distance touring.
c. If I am going on a long tour I should get a dedicated touring bike.
 
I think I have it clear in my head now  :laugh:

Steve
That’s indisputably true Steve if you look at it logically.
But....
If I was going to use logic, I would have taken the V85, but I know you well enough to realise your comments are somewhat tongue in cheek.
I didn’t take the Honda because it was the “right” bike, but it IS the right bike because it is demonstrably the “wrong” bike. Engaging in such a pursuit has it’s own set of unique challenges and rewards.
The big bike allows you to enforce your will, the little one requires that you adapt to the bike’s will.
I have been counselled constantly throughout this trip on various ways to make the bike “more suitable”, but I resolved to take the bike absolutely bog standard (except for the bigger tank) and do all the modifying to myself.
Tomorrow is the last full day I willl do on this trip and it’s true that I faced the worst headwinds of the entire trip, I had to change back to 3rd gear and accept 60 kph for 150 km. It’s a lot different when you’re facing a relentless headwind with failing light in 7 degrees Celsius, than telling everybody about what you’ll do when it happens, but I just told myself that the destination was 180 k’s away and imagined I was doing 75 km/h.
Your backside does not know the difference, after all I would not balk at 180 km @ 75 kph, so why is 150 km @ 60 kph any different ?
Short answer is....it isn’t.

This is tomorrow
(https://i.ibb.co/JmKGG15/05-E93786-7219-42-C0-AC3-C-FCC88-DCD42-A0.png) (https://ibb.co/JmKGG15)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: tris on August 23, 2021, 02:49:15 PM
It's been a while since I've looked at this thread and it's grand to see that you're progressing well Huzo

It strikes me that in the garage I have the POS (aka a Yam TW125) that might be suitable for this sort of mission but I'd have to do about 27 laps of the uk to get to your sort of mileage!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 23, 2021, 03:41:47 PM
It's been a while since I've looked at this thread and it's grand to see that you're progressing well Huzo

It strikes me that in the garage I have the POS (aka a Yam TW125) that might be suitable for this sort of mission but I'd have to do about 27 laps of the uk to get to your sort of mileage!
Do John O Groats to Lands End and back, or over to Calais and up to Nordkapp and back. It’s only 30% of the Oz trip, but you could do it three times...!
How about onto the ferry, Calais to Stelvio to Transfagarasan Pass then home via Sicily ?
If you do this once...
(https://i.ibb.co/0DZSP4W/D6-B6-FC54-124-C-4-BFB-8077-988-C4-BB312-D6.png) (https://ibb.co/0DZSP4W)

Then turn around and do it in reverse, you have the same.... :popcorn:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bottler on August 23, 2021, 07:25:21 PM
I will remember that Dan. :thumb: :grin:
I keep hearing Waylon Jennings singing "I don't think ole Huzo done it this way"'
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: 12SCraig on August 25, 2021, 12:41:28 AM
Good on ya Huzo.

Dead set Auzzie Legend,

Dead set Auzzie Nut Case.

Allthebest,
Craig.

( pity it looks like you have Easterlys in your face for the last day ) I'm sure you will welcome it .
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 25, 2021, 02:21:59 AM
As “proof of life”
Here she is back with the parents.
(https://i.ibb.co/m45RtzD/F76956-FF-3-EB5-4-B3-F-95-BA-B4964-D91-C1-A4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/m45RtzD)

(https://i.ibb.co/5FfBq7K/DB767258-C921-47-DC-A9-E9-BDE0-DBC488-B5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5FfBq7K)

(https://i.ibb.co/K921v6y/D0-F00370-32-F9-40-C8-A2-B2-C761371-BD862.jpg) (https://ibb.co/K921v6y)

(https://i.ibb.co/XX3bXpt/0-D3-E4-AE8-4-C23-4-B1-C-B6-D7-25-CA1-A62-AC7-D.jpg) (https://ibb.co/XX3bXpt)

(https://i.ibb.co/xDXSqcL/78-FB7-DCC-C244-47-DC-94-AE-896-B826-BDAC4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/xDXSqcL)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: chuck peterson on August 25, 2021, 03:07:21 AM
My most sincere congratulations!

Cheers for Huzo!

 :bike-037:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 25, 2021, 03:49:35 AM
Thanks to all who wish(ed) me the best.
It does mean a lot when it’s sincere. There has not been one dissenting comment from the get go and I’m buoyed by the teaser that Tris might get his 125 out for a spin.
 Remember, the concept is not mine and it’s not new.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: huub on August 25, 2021, 05:26:28 AM
great trip! i am completely jealous.
it takes some courage to leave your beautifull V85TT home, and leave on the posty.

Your trip reminded me of a friend who did some road trips on a velosolex a couple of years ago.
trying to find him online this showed up.
https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/read/6982898/ultimate-off-road-trip-solexmaniait

you guys down under like a challenge...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: twodogs on August 25, 2021, 05:37:46 AM
Congrats on a true adventure, have been following your trip with great interest and it's great to hear that there are folks out there still willing to get out and have fun  :boozing: :bike-037:
Bruce
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bottler on August 25, 2021, 06:06:06 AM
Well done mate
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: twowings on August 25, 2021, 07:24:56 AM
Nicely done! Adventure biking is a state of mind, not a set of specifications.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on August 25, 2021, 07:27:37 AM
Congratulations on a job well done Pete👍
I’m looking foreword to talking to you about the trip.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Sye on August 25, 2021, 09:07:51 AM
If you're back already it must have been too easy!

Only joking, massive ride and surprisingly uneventful. Well done, you can put your feet up now and have a few tinnies...  :boozing: :boozing: :boozing:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Jorg66 on August 25, 2021, 09:42:06 AM
Very very Prime Huzo , full of envy here.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Dharma Bum on August 25, 2021, 10:00:24 AM
Congratulations on a job well done!!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: pete mcgee on August 25, 2021, 03:02:38 PM
Well with 20/20 hindsight, your timing was perfect, if you left a month later you would be enjoying NSW lockdown and WA wouldnt let you through the door.
Glad you enjoyed yourself.
Careful when you take the other 2 for a run, all that extra power may come as a shock.....
Small throttle movements until you remember what youre on.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Muzz on August 25, 2021, 06:02:21 PM
I doff my hat to you sir.  That was a major undertaking Peter, and something you can take pride in telling your grandkids in the years to come.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: lucian on August 25, 2021, 06:53:59 PM
Congrats Huzzo , Been lurking all along and your resolve is nothing short of awesome and inspiring. Thank you for sharing and I'm glad you did exactly what you set out to do!  :bow:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 25, 2021, 07:09:40 PM
Thank you to all you guys.
We should keep an eye on Tris. I reckon we should cajole him into going to John o Groats.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Glawster on August 26, 2021, 03:47:16 AM
Well done Peter!  A very entertaining and thought provoking thread.  For those of us who think we've done a long trip riding from UK to Italy, the relative size of Australia is mind boggling. 
Cheers,
Derek

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51403608773_8837c402e1_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mjmW1M)Capture (https://flic.kr/p/2mjmW1M) by Derek Wardell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154993838@N08/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 26, 2021, 04:08:05 AM
Well done Peter!  A very entertaining and thought provoking thread.  For those of us who think we've done a long trip riding from UK to Italy, the relative size of Australia is mind boggling. 
Cheers,
Derek

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51403608773_8837c402e1_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mjmW1M)Capture (https://flic.kr/p/2mjmW1M) by Derek Wardell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154993838@N08/), on Flickr
Thank you Derek.
I still remember this day
(https://i.ibb.co/RH2N7gt/DCE8-E0-D0-3383-44-F0-AF64-74449-D0-D213-D.png) (https://ibb.co/RH2N7gt)

A great dinner and beaut sleep in your lovely home....(Hi to the puppies....)
PS
Jeez that red bag gets around..!
(https://i.ibb.co/px0HbGR/F91-A07-CF-84-F0-4511-9966-50-B89-A759-D79.jpg) (https://ibb.co/px0HbGR)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Glawster on August 26, 2021, 01:34:08 PM
Yes - nice little ride out Peter.  I don't suppose you saw many villages like this in the Northern Territories...

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51403535352_9dc7882daa_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mjmybU)20190624_151730 (https://flic.kr/p/2mjmybU) by Derek Wardell (https://www.flickr.com/photos/154993838@N08/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 26, 2021, 03:28:56 PM
No mate..
Not a lot.... :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: elrealistico on August 26, 2021, 05:10:17 PM
Great story! I see you cleaned her up for her close-up after arriving home :)  One day when I get all these kids and animals out of my AOR I aspire to do such a trip, I'll settle for FL-ME-WA-CA-FL :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 26, 2021, 05:39:27 PM
Great story! I see you cleaned her up for her close-up after arriving home :)  One day when I get all these kids and animals out of my AOR I aspire to do such a trip, I'll settle for FL-ME-WA-CA-FL :thumb:
Funny you say that, I haven’t put a rag on it yet...But I will when some parts arrive.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 26, 2021, 11:29:43 PM
Forgot this one.
(https://i.ibb.co/7RB9Lpk/5-F8-E4473-8-AA9-4699-95-B0-C9-DD637529-FE.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7RB9Lpk)

(https://i.ibb.co/zPQKmsT/9-F6-EA299-FE45-4449-8-B9-B-7-F0450898-EC2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/zPQKmsT)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 27, 2021, 01:59:13 AM
So...
Concluding impressions.

Before I left on this trip, I was swamped by well wishes and support regarding the upcoming events. Even the comments like “utter lunacy” and “fantastic madness”, were delivered tongue in cheek and dripping with implied support, this does not go unwelcomed and as the date draws near, these gestures of support loom large on the near horizon and are a comfort at the times when self doubt creeps in at 2 in the morning inside a flapping tent.
It’s true in my case, I look at myself dispassionately and wonder why I find such a venture so achievable, when guys that I know in my group of friends balk at the prospect.
You find yourself asking inside your head...”Who’s wrong, them or me...” ?

I do know that an essential mechanism to enable one to face something like this, is to learn to compartmentalise and break the enormous journey into easily manageable bite size chunks.
It may be worth considering that while I was being congratulated for soldiering away for seven weeks at a wonderful trip, a goodly percentage of my supporters were spending as much of their life as I, getting up, going to work, coming home and having three hours before bed, then doing exactly the same thing tomorrow, so as to provide for their loved ones.
What I did was easier, more enjoyable and more self serving than them.
If I said the trip was relatively easy, it is not because I am God like in any way, it’s just that I went for a medium length ride for 49 days in a row with a week off in the middle.

Which brings me to a point....

Why would it not be possible for a group of guys to all purchase an identical bike, meet at a central point and head off on some sort of quest ? I gratefully accept the kudos that have been offered to me, but I must let you know that most guys here would be able to do similar, if you don’t want to I understand, but please don’t think you cannot.
A concept something like.
Pick a destination in the middle of the U.S. and form a number of fringe groups about 400 miles out from the centre. Each group forms it’s own faction and converges on that point, it’s not about the meeting at the end, it’s about forming a desire in your mind and getting together to make it happen. There’s a certain excitement that manifests when you pick a crazy idea and say...
“Bugger it, I’m just gunna’ go....”
The less suitable the bike, the more suitable it is.
 I loved the thought of being laughed at when I parked my bike next to the 1200 BMW GS’, KTM 1190’s, Ducati Multistrada’s and Africa Twins, but the only trouble was....
It never happened....(I parked the bike, but no one laughed..)
I was made an awffer I couldn’t refuse by a group of Harley riders on an 8 person table occupied by seven of them at Pine Creek.
“Hey mate.. is that your ******* postie bike...?”
“Yes mate, it is..”
“Are you gunna’ come and sit with us, or do I have to come and get ya’...”.  (Notice there was no question mark..?)
It wasn’t a question... :undecided:
“Yeah ok, thanks...”
So on went a rollicking conversation regarding the benefits of living your life the way you wish and not setting out to artificially conform. Upon leaving they all gave me a well meant congratulatory handshake and a Man hug....
There are a thousand stories that are all fundamentally the same and carry the same intrinsic message, but I think we should move onto another tack.

If there’s one thing above all else that I would love to see come from all this, is that there’ll be a bit of a groundswell of interest among those who would like to do similar. I reckon it has been one of the most fulfilling trips that I have done and I think that’s because it seemed like an ill advised venture.
But it worked.
Thank you all.
Peter.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: tris on August 27, 2021, 07:15:13 AM
Forgot this one.
(https://i.ibb.co/7RB9Lpk/5-F8-E4473-8-AA9-4699-95-B0-C9-DD637529-FE.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7RB9Lpk)

(https://i.ibb.co/zPQKmsT/9-F6-EA299-FE45-4449-8-B9-B-7-F0450898-EC2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/zPQKmsT)


Is that the Gun Barrel straight I seem to have heard about some time??
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 27, 2021, 07:47:43 AM
Is that the Gun Barrel straight I seem to have heard about some time??
I think you might be referring to the Gun Barrel Hwy, but I may be mistaken there.
In any case, that part is perfectly straight and takes 2 hrs at my speed.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Ncdan on August 27, 2021, 08:14:29 AM
Thanks Pete for the recap of your adventure and an adventure it was. Personally I enjoyed following you the entire trip and found myself looking foreword every nite to see what you had accomplished that day or hear an account of something special that may have occurred.
I think Following Huzo’s trip is a great example of why the majority of the members of WG are so loyal. We didn’t just follow a motorcycle enthusiast across the great land mass of Australia, we followed a brother, a family member of the WG forum.

I think that we should collectively consider Huzo’s suggestion to consider doing something similar  as a group.
Maybe if nothing else the next time we attend a rally pack up on some little unorthodox bike and head that way. Who knows, an adventure like Huzo’s could rekindled a little spark in what has become a boring uneventful life for some of us.

Thanks Pete and I’m looking  forward to following your next big adventure!
 
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 27, 2021, 08:17:03 AM
 :thumb:
Mandello 2022 with 200,000 km clicking over on the Norge.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 28, 2021, 12:32:42 AM
A bit of a tart up..
(https://i.ibb.co/HhHw70S/89-A5-D05-A-0-CB0-416-D-8-AE9-F12999057-B38.png) (https://ibb.co/HhHw70S)

Wouldn’t know it ever left.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: wyno on August 28, 2021, 02:29:07 AM
Well Done Pete. Now you'll have to do the same trip on the Norge.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 28, 2021, 02:30:41 AM
Well Done Pete. Now you'll have to do the same trip on the Norge.
Nah mate.
I never go anywhere on it.....
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 28, 2021, 04:18:36 AM
One of our Aussie members Ian, (Bat 11) was with me for the Cape York part of the trip and a few days before.
He is too modest to say much about his involvement in that part of the lap, but suffice to say that his effort was no less noteworthy.
10,000 km is a damn good ride as well on a Honda AG200.
This is what some of his time looked like
(https://i.ibb.co/Cnkf53L/2-CAF1335-EC31-4686-8221-EE220-A23-D5-D7.png) (https://ibb.co/Cnkf53L) (https://i.ibb.co/y0nBw4H/2-B30-AF3-F-F29-D-4749-A1-CA-DB03-BFEE91-DF.png) (https://ibb.co/y0nBw4H) (https://i.ibb.co/tm6PJvY/B98-E34-CF-2-C62-4001-953-D-8-FEED77959-AD.png) (https://ibb.co/tm6PJvY) (https://i.ibb.co/LJT5xhy/81-AE8404-80-FA-4-ACE-BC8-F-59-E84-DA1198-A.png) (https://ibb.co/LJT5xhy) (https://i.ibb.co/VQB4CVR/94-E59-DE1-79-AD-43-C5-878-D-453237-BC5-F80.png) (https://ibb.co/VQB4CVR) (https://i.ibb.co/SK3fd28/BEBCC332-8-E9-A-4233-9546-8-E17-DBE799-FB.png) (https://ibb.co/SK3fd28) (https://i.ibb.co/GcXDrDB/0-CB5111-F-EB83-4-F5-F-A7-C0-162-D2-C046891.png) (https://ibb.co/GcXDrDB) (https://i.ibb.co/HB70RtZ/A73-BB630-20-EF-471-B-A91-C-6-C1-E4-FC9606-A.png) (https://ibb.co/HB70RtZ) (https://i.ibb.co/9tFD7ZD/69-A7-C0-D2-F915-4849-B957-9967-E99-F9328.png) (https://ibb.co/9tFD7ZD)



Fair to say that he is a rescoursceful bugger and tenacious as buggery...(an old Navy man...)
Top touring partner and does more than his share of daily functions...(a lot fitter than me too..)
Ian can tell you in finer detail about his exploits after we parted ways.
He continued South East after the Atherton region and curved his way back to Adelaide, whereas I went directly West towards Mt Isa.
Good memories.... :bow: :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Texas Turnip on August 28, 2021, 05:03:58 AM
Congrats. YOU DID IT!. Unfortunately, I've run into way too many "Gonna d0 it" When I retire I'm gonna. When the kids are grown I'm gonna. When the house is payed off I'm gonna.  Gonna, gonna and then I see them laying in a casket taking a dirt nap and dreams unfilled.

You can make out a thousand excuses or do it.
Tex
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 28, 2021, 05:08:07 AM
Congrats. YOU DID IT!. Unfortunately, I've run into way too many "Gonna d0 it" When I retire I'm gonna. When the kids are grown I'm gonna. When the house is payed off I'm gonna.  Gonna, gonna and then I see them laying in a casket taking a dirt nap and dreams unfilled.

You can make out a thousand excuses or do it.
Tex
Thank you Tex.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bottler on August 29, 2021, 05:05:36 AM
Huzo,

Once you have had a bit of home time to catch up on your cartography I would be interested to know what, if any, gear you carried with you on your lap of Oz that turned out to be unused/unnecessary. Also, what was your most essential item?

I ask as I intend to embark on my lap just as soon as the virus allows.

Thanks

Bottler

 
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 29, 2021, 06:51:10 AM
Huzo,

Once you have had a bit of home time to catch up on your cartography I would be interested to know what, if any, gear you carried with you on your lap of Oz that turned out to be unused/unnecessary. Also, what was your most essential item?

I ask as I intend to embark on my lap just as soon as the virus allows.

Thanks

Bottler
I’ve formed the opinion over the journey that whether here or overseas, there a four main categories.
Camping
Communication
Currency
Navigation.
In my case, which will vary if applied to someone else it’s like this..

Camping.
I use a good quality tent as do most guys, but I also consider as essential, an American made Ultralite Cot. It means when you are given a site that is gravelly or just plain bumpy, you can elevate yourself 3” clear of the ground and sleep well.
Also best sleeping bag you can afford. It gets VERY cold in the outback at night.
Other than that, same as anyone else.

Communication.
I have an Optus mobile which has some large black spots. Telstra has better overall coverage, but not 100%.
It’s the lack of internet to non Telstra customers that has the greatest impact. Good thing is these days, that you can make free calls from phone boxes, even to mobiles.
Make sure you have your own data on your i pad.

Currency.
Not a big issue if you’re at home in Oz, so just your plastic card and cash.

Navigation
I took my GPS (Tom Tom 550) and found it surplus to requirement...(you cannot get lost going ‘round Australia).
However I did use the i pad a couple of times to zero in on campgrounds and hotels/motels. It is more than good enough if you use Google maps. Also it’s handy for getting ETA’s on destinations.

What did I take that was unnecessary?
Too many pairs of pants. I took my $450 Kevlar jeans and hardly wore them.
3 T shirts is enough..I took 5.
3 pairs of socks..I took 5.

Most essential equipment other than obvious..(wallet, mobile etc..)?...Of the stuff that I will never leave behind ?
The cot, it means you will ALWAYS sleep well.

What I should have left home ?
Go Pro, heavy/bulky Kevlar jeans, excessive clothing.

It should be noted though, that my trip was a low speed/low key affair at 70 kph. The chances of a high speed crash are negligible compared to high speed touring on European Autobahns, so I was lightly dressed most of the time.
But that’s my take on it..
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: zedXmick on August 29, 2021, 01:16:17 PM
Congrats on the successful adventure!!!  Here’s to the memories you made!! Well done!!  :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on August 29, 2021, 05:11:28 PM
Congrats on the successful adventure!!!  Here’s to the memories you made!! Well done!!  :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Thanks Mick..
I tried to zoom out far enough, but cannot quite fit the entire map in. The guy who built the tracker will sort something out.
(https://i.ibb.co/DDtNkgD/32-C8-F836-78-BC-4-F7-F-909-B-6-C987504-C40-E.png) (https://ibb.co/DDtNkgD)

(https://i.ibb.co/fFpFxvm/2-D39-AA7-C-A96-C-441-C-9-A37-6-F73-E5182-DE0.png) (https://ibb.co/fFpFxvm)

Or...
(https://i.ibb.co/Zh4gFtP/78-C94-C4-D-EB0-A-4164-A5-F3-E41230054571.png) (https://ibb.co/Zh4gFtP)

(https://i.ibb.co/dpbrFcv/AFEA45-AE-97-E5-4-FE7-8073-59-F93-C387-AC5.png) (https://ibb.co/dpbrFcv)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Jorg66 on August 30, 2021, 10:54:06 AM
Huzo ,agree ! 3 pairs Socks ,Underwear,Shirts more than enough  :grin: plus a good Iso matt for under the Tent !
One Pot for cooking and making coffee serves Me and my Better Half well .

Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bulwnkl on September 05, 2021, 10:58:34 PM
Congrats and well done!  Thanks for posting the pictures and ride report.
I'd like to see Perth some day...
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on September 06, 2021, 01:54:15 AM
Congrats and well done!  Thanks for posting the pictures and ride report.
I'd like to see Perth some day...
It’s quite Rocky North of there...
You’d make a great pair. !
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: bulwnkl on September 07, 2021, 05:39:26 PM
LOL!
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: stubbie on September 07, 2021, 07:35:04 PM
Hear you go

(https://i.ibb.co/R7Mycc7/IMG-0180.jpg) (https://ibb.co/R7Mycc7)


(https://i.ibb.co/WVQ068d/IMG-0266.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WVQ068d)

(https://i.ibb.co/DDQ4Zdn/101.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DDQ4Zdn)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: twowings on September 07, 2021, 09:23:42 PM
I STILL want my t-shirt from Tittybong.  :cool:

I hope you get to do such an epic trip on the Norge!  :boozing:
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on September 08, 2021, 12:41:19 AM
I STILL want my t-shirt from Tittybong.  :cool:

I hope you get to do such an epic trip on the Norge!  :boozing:
What....
AGAIN.......! (I did a lap in 2018)
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on September 08, 2021, 02:40:26 AM
To paraphrase a T shirt a young lady was wearing in Kansas in 2019 ,

                                         He believed he could do it , so he did .

 Well done Peter  :bow:

 Dusty
Thank you very much Dusty.
Very much indeed....
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round)
Post by: Huzo on May 24, 2022, 06:49:33 AM
Here’s an idea.
Anyone interested can send me AUD 3,000 and organise a plane ticket to land them at Melbourne International Airport on June 1 2023.
I will buy and prepare a CT 110 for them to do a lap of Australia with me.
The bike will be registered in my name and at the end of the trip I’ll sell it in the condition the rider left it and return that amount to the rider.

If you don’t trust me, don’t bother replying.

If there are multiple participants, you only ride the bike that’s assigned to you, that way you cannot blame anyone else for mistreatment of the bike and subsequent destroying of it’s value.
Currently AUD 3,000 is about the minimum you’ll get a good one for and any costs incurred over that amount to get it trip worthy and registered will be additional. But remember, if I can sell it for say, $2,000 after the trip, that’s what you get back.
Looking at my bike, you would not know it had ever been around.
I would be suggesting an anticlockwise lap following my tracks from 2021.
You will NEVER get a chance to ride around Australia cheaper than this. If you decide to abuse the bike on the trip, you’ll need to remember that you are destroying it’s resale value, so no one loses but you and. 75 kph is the cruising speed…(It worked for me..)
There will be a support vehicle this time…(I didn’t have one..).

Now I’ll field any questions from those who want to find holes in the idea for a certain period, but after that if you haven’t committed, you won’t get a response.
No PM will be answered, all enquires are on the open forum on this thread.
Anyone who sends money will need to publish it on the open forum so it is common knowlege what I have received on your behalf. I will run an account for each participant detailing what has been spent.
Once numbers have been finalised and monies paid, I will organise accomodation for a couple of days between arrival here and departure, to allow for purchase of any gear you might want.
I will collect you at the airport on the day.

It kind of occurred to me that a large proportion of the members value the friendship as much as the ride and on a little bike like this, there should be no realistic barrier to anyone.
It would be the trip of a lifetime if you’ve not been to Australia before.

Anyway, start picking holes in the idea and I’ll give you the solution.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round…)….Again…
Post by: Huzo on January 19, 2023, 04:26:01 PM
Just wondered if anyone has taken inspiration from reply #308 and #331….?
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round…)….Again…
Post by: Huzo on April 15, 2023, 08:23:42 PM
Offer’s still open….
I think I’ll go again.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round…)….Again…
Post by: Jorg66 on April 20, 2023, 01:38:32 PM
this time 'counterclock wise ? Just wondering .
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round…)….Again…
Post by: Huzo on April 20, 2023, 02:10:40 PM
this time 'counterclock wise ? Just wondering .
Last time was counterclockwise.
Same again.
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round…)….Again…
Post by: Jorg66 on April 23, 2023, 12:48:47 PM
Right, ... .
Title: Re: Cape to Cape..(probably go right ‘round…)….Again…
Post by: Huzo on October 18, 2023, 06:50:57 AM
On or about June next year, I think I’ll do another lap on the CT110.
If any one of you guys wants to do it with me, I’ll find a CT110, you pay for it and I’ll prepare it the same  as my own and have it ready when you arrive in Australia.
When the trip is over, I’ll sell it and return that amount to you.
I will do the work and it’ll be ready to go on the appointed date.
Don’t say you were not offered…