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 A Womans’ Perspective
The August club run was over to Healesville on some really picturesque terrain, organised and expertly led by Richard Haughton. Last year I was on my bike, this year I was back up trailer. All club lead riders put many hours into preparation for the run and Richard was adamant that he wanted a womans’ perspective of the event.
When Phillip first joined the club it was with great hesitation that I began driving a back up trailer. I knew Marge Lofts was the expert in this field and if I really practiced my task I may become half as proficient as the maestro. I think also Marge had certainly served her time in this posting after many, many dedicated years. Check out the photos in the Gallery
For any inexperienced back up trailer drivers thinking of taking up the calling, there is absolutely no need to worry. I really needed no tie down skills although I personally welcomed the instructions by the tailend Charlies along with the unfortunate riders who had the humility of seeing their bike being hauled on the trailer behind. They adore their bike and they have a vested interest in securing the love of their life. You really do not have to do a thing!
Shortly after joining the club and after two pillion rides and a ‘dare’ I decided to get a motor bike licence. On the morning I was to go for my learners the bike fell over and broke my (gear changing) ankle. That gave me another year to accompany the many scenic rides in airconditioned comfort with great music.
To all out there who are the spouse, partner, girlfriend, friend, relative or especially retired rider. Don’t sit at home and waste another day of your life! As many of you know, my late mother loved to go on the club runs with me. Great time to catch up with your mother or mother-in-law!
The lead rider spends so much time in planning the best possible route over magnificent terrain that you would never traverse on a regular ‘Sunday ‘drive.. The route is usually pre run to check it out and the back (sealed) roads have little traffic. Do not worry! You will not follow them down a garden path where you cannot make an easy ‘U’ turn!!!
If the weather is not great, you are in the car and protected. All that is needed is to keep your eye on the tail end Charlie and you are led through scenery that I guarantee you would not find yourself without lots of investigation. There is always plenty of ‘watering’ holes and great coffee shops.
It was only due to family commitments that I haven’t been able to participate over the last few years but it amazes me there is not a waiting list for people wanting to participate as back up trailer.
On Sunday Richard led us on what was from the start point a 170K ride all done at the 80K speed consistent with the classic club expectations . Great picturesque roads including through the fire ravaged Toolangi area. To see the way the regeneration has taken place since February 2009 was amazing. Also the new buildings and even noting older structures that had obviously remained untouched through the fire storm.
The Healesville Bakery provided the usual high standard of fare. Great food, great company. After our social catch up we went on to the Maroondah Dam. The weather was inclement but it didn’t stop visitors to this well looked after area feeding all species of bird life from the rainbow parakeets to sulfur crested cockatoos.
At this stage I was really wondering why I am riding a bike on the club runs????? I forgot how comfortable back up trailer participation is! I can get out of the car and I do not have ‘helmet’ head! If I feel hot/cold, there is a switch in front of me that instantly accommodates.
What are you club members missing and now there is even monetary compensation for fuel. The club PAYS you to go on great rides.
Thanks Richard for a great run and please CMCV members and interested parties
think about going back up for the club. You will definitely have a great time.
Reg Hammond Club Captain would welcome any enquiries!
Kay DiClemente 16.8.2010
The Participants:
Richard Haughton, Ride Leader Honda FT500 ’82
Graham Boulter Triumph Bonny ’08
Richard Mason BMW R80G/S ’81
Ross Patrick Norton ES2 ’56
Jack Youdan Triumph Sprint ’02
Peter Cullen, Tail-end-Charlie BMW R60/5 ’71
Ray Isles BMW R80 ’95
Phillip McArdle BMW R90S
Kay DiClemente, Back up Trailer
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