05/05/2026
Social ride.
The Store Kekerengu.
What a stunning day.
As I started the bike my dash displayed 6 deg. The temp cool and the sky above clear blue.
We hadn't had any rain for several days but more importantly the temp over night not cold enough to set a frost. Departure point the first bike there had come in from the country and a slightly higher elevation, his start up temp was 3deg, winter is on it's way. Eight bikes in total and one pillon rider all things looking good. Away on time we headed out of town, the group demonstrating correct group riding positioning this was something we had discussed at our ride briefing. If you are in a position to observe this as i often do riding TEC. I can only describe it as impressive when done correctly. Our ride took us up and over the Whangamoa down the other side running along the Collins Valley then up the Rai Saddle at which point we encountered dense fog, a common occurrence at this time of year for the Rai Saddle and subsequent Rai Valley settlement. We returned to sunshine and back to a very comfortable 16 deg riding temp, the rest of our ride to Marlborough was easy with absolutely stunning views of the autum colours changing across the vinyards. A quick stop to add one rider from Marlborough and to bid farewell to two riders returning to Nelson now seven bikes heading to the Store.
Arrival at the Store we were met by another two members of IAM TOT's, they had been in Hanmer and made their way over to meet us on the coast for lunch, excellent!
The staff at the Store were friendly and efficient lunch was most enjoyable. We had plenty of time to relax and laugh about numerous topics of discussion
things like how to look cool on a KTM. I am sure some of you will have seen those tongue in cheek Youtube clips.
Away home we now had eight bikes again and two pillion riders what a fantastic turnout. Clear blue sky all day and a comfortable riding temp what more could we ask, arrival back in Nelson around 3.45pm distance door to door for me 397.7ks.
Thanks team for turning out, it is indeed a pleasure to ride with skilled riders demonstrating roadcraft.
I hope you enjoy the photos. I am sure you will see what I mean when I say stunning weather in the top of the south.
Thanks for your support.
Hope to see you on the next ride.
Regards Boyd.
