13/08/2026
Social Ride, Golden Bay.
Sunday morning early hours and the rain was heavy as forecast. Departure was set for 10.30am and the rain was easing. As I rode to the departure point the rain was all but gone, the western ranges starting to clear things were looking good.
Five riders arrived ready for the days ride.
We headed toward Upper Moutere Village on our way through to Motueka, this part of the ride gave us a good look at the residue of rain that had fallen, the river banks showing high flow marks from overnight and paddocks holding flood water. We skirted Motueka via the back roads heading to Riwaka and finally up the Takaka Hill.
Road conditions were good for us no ice due to the rain, having said that, the thing to beware of was heavy ice grit in all the corners washed across ones preferred riding line, so this is where the system kicks in. Good forward observation along with the thought what might I find in this corner.
All aspects of motorcycle control in use resulted in a safe and systematic ride.
As we crested the hill we were in the cloud with the temp falling to 9deg.
Soon after the Summit the Upper Takaka Valley started to appear, from that point the visability improved along with temp. Truely comfortable riding conditions.
Arrival at Pohara for lunch we sat outside in beautiful sunshine with the temp around 17deg.
Our return ride was equally comfortable with the lowest temp being a very pleasant 14 deg, we headed back to the Upper Moutere Cafe' for coffee thus marking the end of our ride.
Thanks for the company and as usual, I hope to see you at the next coffee morning or social ride.
Regards Boyd.
