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Support is growing, from both riders and sponsors, for the Suzuki East Cape Motorcycle Adventure Ride being organised for March 10-11.
The best way to imagine the ride is as a non-competitive rally on motorcycles crossed with orienteering. Riders navigate using a special roller map mounted on their handlebars. The map tells them where to go at each intersection as well as how far into the ride they are and what to look out for. Some of the special challenge sections are arrowed as well to keep riders on track.
The ride starts and finishes at Whakatane and includes a stop over at Te Araroa Saturday night. The terrain includes 5 back country farm stations and four large forestry blocks as well streams, beaches and winding gravel roads. The terrain is challenging, but rideable with some easy options for novices and challenge sections for experts.
According to Event Organiser Nick Reader, entries are flowing in steadily. Nick says that Motorcycle Adventure rides are gaining in popularity as more and more people seek to explore some of the more remote and scenic areas of NZ on motorcycles. And what better place to explore than the rugged and remote East Cape region. Riders tend to ride in pairs or small groups stopping often for photos or yarns.
And don’t think it’s just for the guys. Four woman rode last year’s ride and more woman are expected to take on the challenge this year.
Co Organiser Phil Goldsmith is very pleased to announce the continued support of Suzuki motorcycles as a naming rights sponsor with Acerbis, Spectro oils and Underwood and Wilkins Motorcycles also supporting the event for the second year. Phil says that, because the event involves almost 800km over two days, bike choice and preparation are crucial factors for enjoyment and success.
The 2000 event was a success with many riders quoting the event as one of the best Adventure rides they had ridden, mainly due to the rugged and scenic terrain they got to ride over as well as the top event organization. The 2001 event will provide the same fun, action and adventure.
