Friday 23rd December.

Dozer arrived at Bugs place at 930 as discussed. The drizzle had just started but looked like it was going to blow though quite quick. (How wrong were we) We headed off around the river past Rubberjaws to Huntsbury where Tinkerbell was waiting. Hadn't headed up this way for a while. Started the grind up here till the 3rd bend where Dozer stopped to take a layer off. Continued up the rest with no stops. Noticed a few new buildings up there since the last time. Up the last steep climb with the loose shingle on. Tinkerbell dropped back a little here as he was on his hard tail. (Loose bearing on this normal ride). Short break at the start of the Traverse. Noticed a few dark heavy clouds coming our way as we headed into the traverse. Drizzle became rain as we got around half way to Vic park. Stopped in the trees where we were protected from the heavy rain. Jackets were put on and Bug's put his ground effect water proof pants on. Down though the 1st short run below the road then Bug's took the road to Dyers and the others did the 2nd short track. Headed up the road to the top of The Body bag. Decided not to ride the Nun as this would not be fun with the wet rocks. Dropped down the Body bag which was quite slippy due to the rain. Had to ride in the ruts so we wouldn't come to grief. Got to the Gate to the new bike park which was locked. Tinkerbell suggested that we jump the fence and sneak in which we reluctantly did. Rode up the road until we found the 1st track. The Green one called Dan's Donut. This looked slippy with the rain that was falling. Bug's lead with the others not far behind. Great track with big sweeping banked corners. This would be great in the dry but turned out to be slippy as riding on ice. Couple of close calls as we headed down. The dust that was on the track had turned into a 3cm thick mud that flew off the tyres like a plow and stuck to everything. Stopped at a junction where we talked to another rider who informed us they had closed the Blue and black tracked due to the slippy conditions. A large group of 20+ down hill riders rode though slipping and sliding. Gave them a few minutes then continued down. Half way down we caught them as they were having trouble turning there wheels with all the mud. Bug's got past them and continued down wards. The mud just got thinker as we came out at the carpark. Joined the Que to wash the bikes down. The Reign was twice it's normal weight and the muddiest it has ever been. Bug's was about the same. After losing most of the mud we had a quick look around and run into Helmut. Had a chat in the rain then we headed off. Tinkerbell turned off to his while Bug's n Dozer rode across town to Bug's place. Dozer headed home while Bug's washed the Bike, Helmet, Shoes, Pants, Jacket, Bag and undies. Great last group ride of the year for some. Keen to head back into the park but only on a dry day. Merry Christmas to all. Bu

g's

Sunday 18th December

As written by Mellonfarmer cos RubberJaws got a sick guts and had to crap his morning away.  reworked by Mellonfarmer

9am meeting at Rubberjaw's, MF was on his Fatty because he'd blown up his drivetrain on Wednesday night and hadn't replaced it yet.  He found RJ, Tinks, Slyfox and Dozey waiting for Phatbuoy (who didn't show) and then a text from Monsieur deSpa saying he was 5 minutes away.  Around Aynsley Tce and then up Crapaki, busy as always.  Reasonable pace up here but Rubberjawns's sick guts were starting to disturb him as they headed into the Full Monty.  Nice climb up and around then fun bits, with only MF taking the 'harder' option, from the rear, getting in behind Tinks and JubberRaws for the next section rolling across the face of the hill.  They stopped and peered down at Glenelg spur looking for potential ways up here.  It was here, that Jubber decided that he'd be bailing when they got back to the main track.  Cruised the climb through to the end, RJ bailed and MF led the way up the singletrack above the main drag.  Good roll up here; the fat bike feeling good.  Only deSpa-rado and MF stayed on the singletrack, the others choosing the easier climb,  Regrouped at the top.

Up around Vernon, easy riding, and into Traverse, speaking with a clusterfuck of riders all seemingly taking turns at attempting to fix some guy's tire...  Left them to it and had an awesome run around the Traverse.. Regrouped at the usual spot, and let some riders through, then on around to Vic Park for another regroup before the trees.  Into the trees and down past the see-saw then down through the rockgarden and the favourite little left-hand gummies trail.  Rolled out to the skidder site and there's a guy under a space-blanket being tended to, blood on his head, not looking too flash.  Result of the usual over cooking of the jump, landing nose first and being polevaulted head first into the ground.  Ambulance on it's way.  This is the umpteenth time we've found people injured here - and Beckyboo who rode with us years ago nailed her head here too...  Treat. With. Caution.  

Off down Spazza's, then straight down between Pono's and Brents and out the ridge straight ahead, and into a new wee one MF'd done a wee while back on his own.  Sweet steep entry, then a couple of techy features, then more steep and then zigs and zags in an oak forest, then over a wee jump (that looks worse than it is) onto Bridges.  Down this into Flow/NewFlow and the lower swoopy zigs and zags and down the bottom of the valley.

Into Hidden Valley Track, MF cleaned the creek nicely and was just making his way up the steep bit immediately after and he couldn't hold onto his balance and started toppling.  Left foot wouldn't eject and over he went, landing upside down, bike pretty much still on the trail, still attached, lying in a big old pile of blackberry.  Elbow blooded, and knee must have smacked the bike somewhere, and arm a little shredded by the blackberry.  He managed to climb out and get riding again, cleaning the first and last two upper switchbacks but not the lower second one.

Into Old Skool.  Mostly a good run, some of the rocks proving a bit pushy on the fatty, but everyone quite enjoyed it. 

Down Bowenvale, and Tinks, Silverfoxy and Dozer went for coffee, with deSpa-rado and MF splitting on their separate ways.

 With all the riding across town MF, totalled 31 kms, and climbed 585.  Tinks managed 34 kms, and somehow 635m climbed...

Tuesday 6th December

I rode from Thorrington School around Cashmere Rd and hooked up with Silverfox for a late start.  Dozer, Bugs, Tinkerbell, Phatboy and The Cook started earlier from the exit to Lower Dyers Rd track which they rode up and then did a couple of loops of Marleys before heading back down the same track stopping along the way to look at big cables in the bush....yeah right.

Silverfox and I did a steady climb up Hackthorne Rd before hitting the steeper section into Vic park.  I led over the shingle track past the visitors Centre and then to the digger site.  From here we headed straight up the guts track.  I cleaned it while the Fox had a wee push when the going got a bit tough.  Continued on up and then through the pines to the top of Vic.  Had a nice run down Thompsons and then ambled over to the start of lower Dyers.  Looked to see if we could spot the boys but no sign of them.  I led off down Dyers track having some fun.  Got to the first big open section and what do I find.  A bunch of lads coming out of the forest with silly grins on their faces.  "Oh we have just been looking at big cables in here, do you want a look?"  No way I say thinking what sort of cables are you really looking at?   Silverfox rode up and then we all headed down as a group to their cars.  They drove down to the bar me thinks.  Silverfox and I rode back up into Vic Park and retraced our ride down the hill.  I nearly rearended a car in Vic Park along the way.  At Hackthorne and Dyers Cnr Silverfox headed down Hackthorne while I went down Dyers.  Nice little ride.

2 Map my rides to show.  Mine and the boys.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1898676518

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1898668910

Sunday 4 December

Tinkerbell arrived at mine and we headed off around the road and into Radley Park and along the Heathcote Cut.  picked up Bugs at the footbridge and then crusised around the towpath towards ferrymead Bridge.  Dozer appeared just before the bridge and we stopped and chatted.  The weather was still quite cool so we decided not to remove any layers so we started up St Andrews Hill at a steady but enjoyable pace.  Chatting as we rode.  Up to the start of Lower John Brittain.  Dozer set the pace up here and we headed straight out onto the Summit Rd.  Bugs put on his new knee pads.  The usual comments were mentioned about his need to kneel for us all the time.  Into the old Greenwood entrance having a good ride in here except when I dabbed amongst the rocks and then Dozer dabbed on a straight section.  Stopped at the ruins well Tins put air in the top of his tire.  Then we headed down.  Once again Dozer stopped and dabbed in an unusual pace before he rode on.  headed down down down with a regroup at the road.  Spotted TeRex and his buddies.  Up Godley we went.  Good climb on the first section and although dozer and I dabbed we all cleaned the next bit.  After this it was dab dab dab for some of us until the end of the worst rocks.  Good ride from here.  Down the other side.  Some work happening here so it got dusty.  Stopped for a bite to eat before climbing over the next hump.  Good clean run only stopping for Bugs when he had a minor mechanical.  I led off down the Anaconda.  They have certainly stuffed up this track or the top part.  Shingle thick and loose in all the wrong spots.  Finally got through the shit to some hard pack and got a good run down, regrouped at the top of the tail before continuing on to a pit stop at Taylors. Bugs took off his knee pads and then we headed up and over the hill.  Good clean run with hardly any silliness while riding.....yeah right.  Coffe and tea at Dot Com before heading back towards home with first Dozer turning towards home then Bugs with Tinks and myself finishing where we started.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1895671436

Meanwhile, starting a little earlier, Mellonpharmacist rode with DeSpaPool, up Shuntsbury, round the Traversii, and down through Pic Vark, Schmidden Valley and the Old Skoooool.

Tuesday 29th November

Dozer n Bugs arrived on the flat at bottom of Worsley's where Phatboy arrived shortly with the Yeti in the boot. The Cook arrived next with the bike on the rack then Tinkerbell arrived on the bike having ridden all the way from his place around the corner. Warm evening as we headed up the hill on the road. Up the steep bit to the top of the Farside tracks. Bug's lead down the track to the left of Farside with Phatboy behind then Tinkerbell, Dozer and The Cook. Technical ride down here as the grass was long and gaps between the trees were narrow. This hadn't been ridden much of late. Out at the bottom in no time at all. Back up the road again taking Farside this time. Steep drop into it which we all made with a bit of dust flying. Down and out at the bottom again. Up the road again with Dozer cutting a few off on the up with which was quite cheeky of him. Phatboy lead down the track to the right of Farside which ended up heading down though the paddock. Grass was up to the top of the handle bars with a few small jumps. Back up the road again. This time we tried an old track to the far left of Farside. This was overgrown and we lost Tinkerbell in there some where. Found our way back to the old track and then to the bottom. Tinkerbell arrived from below. Up the single track though the paddock to the top. Some went down Farside and some went down others. All down in one piece. Down the road to the cars. Tinkerbell rode home while the others went for a beer at the Twisted Hop

Saturday 26th November

Phatboy and I had a short ride due to other commitments.  We grunted up Huntsbury.  The road section was hot with no wind while the gravel was warm with a steady wind behind us.  At the top we headed left over Vernon having a good run despite the wind.  Down the New Rapaki track which was fun and straight into the Montgomery Loop.  Stopped to look at potential options to explore to find an alternative track down and up.  This will be looked at soon.  From here we dropped down Rapaki and home.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1884137093

Slightly later in the afternoon, Mellonpharmacist got out for a wee spin of his own, accompanied by his canine buddy.

Sunday 20th November

Up early to watch the rugby and I was joined by Phatboy.  After the All Blacks won we got ourselves ready and headed out to meet up with Bugs, Tinkerbell, Silverfox and Dozer.  Headed around to Rapaki with me having to stop for a bit of spray.  Dozer waited.  We then headed off in pursuit of the others catching them on the shingle.  As we went through the gate there was some stoppage but as we did not need to delayer I carried on slowly to start then putting on more speed thinking everyone was right behind me.  Steady pump to the start of the new track where I waited.  Very surprised by how far back everyone was.  They must of stopped longer.  Up and around the new track.  Once again I kept going while the others must of stopped.  Phatboy caught me as we headed up the steep single track alongside of Rapaki.  Only had to walk about 10-15 meters this time.  Regrouped at the top and then after sorting out an order headed over Vernon.  Regrouped then after Phatboy dropped his chain I led off towards Vic Park.  Swapped the lead with Phatboy halfway and regrouped by the Pines.  Down to the grader site via different routes.  Most did Brakefree while Silverfox did the gums.  From here Silverfox headed down the road.  Not feeling all that flash.  The rest of us headed down Dazzas taking all the different lines then down the track towards the 20 footer.  Good run to the start of hidden track.  I had to cut it short for work reasons so continued down the track while the others headed up Hidden Valley towards Old Skool. Good day for a ride.

Tuesday 15th November

Dozer picked up bug's and we drove to Halswal Quarry where The cook was waiting. Phatboy was parked up in the carpark also. Tinkerbell arrived too. After some chat about the earth quakes we headed though the gate into the Quarry. Up though the park to the start of the crocodile. Quite a few riders around tonight. Phatboy lead on the up with the rest no far behind. Stopped though the 1st gate while a few other riders went past. Headed up the Crocodile with a few riders coming down. We all cleared the 1st half as they have tided up some of the switch backs. Short stop before heading up the paddocks. All cleared this as well. At the gate at the top of the single track we decided not to do the last loop under the pine trees. There were 30-40 riders in Lycra doing loops of the track there. Phatboy lead on the down with Tinkerbell, Bug's, Dozer and then The Cook. Tinkerbell rode the log half way down. Great ride down here by all. Regroup at the gate above the Crocodile while 10-12 Lycra riders headed down. Down we went giving way to a couple of riders on the up. Headed down some new tracks from here that we hadn't rode before. We rode most of the new tracks included the black diamond one. Down wards to the carpark where the cars were waiting. Tinkerbell and Phatboy headed home while the others went for a quick beer. 

Meanwhile Rubberjaws managed a short ride up Rapaki and a loop of the new bit before heading down and home. 

Sunday 13th November

Only a small posse today.  I went outside and met up with Dozer.  The 2 of us ambled up crapaki until it flattens and then sharp left into the new climb and cruise track on montgomerys Spur.  first time for me.  Nice ride.  Wish they would hook this up with lower rapaki for a great climb also.  Back onto Rapaki where Mellonfarmer was waiting for us.  We climbed along the new track along the Edge.  As it got a bit steeper Dozer hit the gravel while MF and I groveled up.  We both walked about 20meters of steep shit before riding it out.  Left into Witch Hill for a good run and then out to Castle Rock.  Good run down here before climbing around to the Col before mt Pleasant.  me running out of energy so had to stop for a bite.  Up we climbed feeling much better.  This time I followed the original line which is slightly overgrown while the 2 shortcuts have become the main line.  This cost me time and the other 2 gapped me.  I had a good run down to the regroup before we exited by the old greenwood entrance.  Down John Brittain and then out via mcCormacks Bay track which was real fun for a change.  Dry and slightly overgrown.  Cruised home via a bakery and the Twisted Hop.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1863796424

Tuesday 1/11/16

Two little rides today, Phatboy, Dozer and The Cook headed up Rapaki and then added the Montgomery Spur Loop in for a first run.  They then headed to the top over Vernon and then down Old Skool.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1842691274

I headed out later after dropping the daughter off.  Headed up Hacthorne into Vic Park.  Along the trail by the road over the hill via the visitors center and then up the guts track and to the top of Vic via the worm.  I returned via Brake Free then down the side track, hackthorne and then Dyers Pass.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1842680021

Tuesday 25th Solo

Dropped my girls off to St John and headed out on a small training ride.  Headed around Cashmere Rd and up hackthorne Rd at a steady pace.  Nothing to harsh.  Then up into Vic park I went feeling quite chipper.  Took the walking track over the last hill by the picnic area and the info center, past the 19th Memorial.  Into the single track that loop around to the base of the gums etc.  Found a couple of big mud holes in here causing me to dab.   I then headed up the gutbuster, felt good and much faster than ever before really.  I then continued on up to the top of Vic Park and down Thompsons Track to Sign of the Kiwi.  Hung a sharp right and did the Old Dyers Rd track stopping to admire the view of all the new tracks in the adventure park.  Back up to Vic Park I went and then followed my uphill back to Dyers Rd for a quick blat down to the start.  Felt real good.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1830402656

Wednesday 19th..home

We loaded the trailer, cleaned the house and headed north to auckland.  Easy drive back.  Checked in the luggage and waited for the flight.  Some tired and sick bunnies amongst us.  Got home at a reasonable hour in the end.

I really enjoyed the trip overall.  Think that the shuttle is a must a Rotorua.  Would do rainbow mountain again for sure but would skip Craters.  The trip will be remembered for the illness and the BBQ.

Tuesdays 18th into the forest again.

We started the day as a full posse albeit some sickies amongst us.  I led off up the road before we headed into the forest by a route I had scoped out on the app Trail forks.  Was a very good plan if I say so myself.  Took us to the top of K2 which was a great ride down.  Steep as with a few techy spots but great fun had by all.  This took us to the acess rd and then into Bunny Jumps 1 and 2.  We were at the shuttle where we relaxed.  Finally up the hill and we came down Corners.  Great downhill that took forever to come down.  Fun fun.  Back onto the shuttle to the top. Bugs was tapped so he went down Eagle Vs Shark and back to the house. The rest of us went down Huckleberry Hound and Little red riding Huck.  More challenging but we all survived....just.  A bit of skin was left by some.  Back up the shuttle and this time down Eagle Vs Shark.  feck this was great.  Fast flowing with wee jumps and spots like a pump track.  Mt quads were screaming by the end.  Shit eating grins on everyones faces.  Down a fire rd before the team split.  Macgyver wanted more so he headed back to the shuttle.  The rest of us headed out via Lynmore Link which had a wee push.  Then we headed down Tank to Town.  Started with a bitchy climb but became a cool downhill and then meanedered back to the house. great finish.  I could of done more but was very happy to finish.

Drinks and an early night.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1817030831

Monday 17th Rainbow Moutain

Piled bikes and people into the van.  No Bugs as he was real sick with a flu/cold. Headed down to rainbow Mountain.  Mellonfarmer led off as the rest of us finished getting ready.  He was sick with a cold.  The track starts easy then you take a right hand turn and it starts getting steeper and more technical.  I was pleased as I rode all the first half which was challenging everyone.  Some walked some rode.  About 2/3s of the way up it got real mucky and we stopped to look at steam coming out of the side of the hill.  Track from here was so steep we all pushed up.  near the top we managed to get some pedalling in again.  Finally reached the summit.  Had a bite to eat and chatted.  Oohed and aahed over the views and then came down the other side.  Reminds me of the song "the bears went up the mountain"  The down started with a very steep technical track with a few dabs by about 95% of us.  All of a sudden it became super ride able.  Fast, flowing, rooty, mucky but so much fun.  Then we were down by the van. 7 short kms. We dipped in the stream which was warm as .  Felt good a relaxing.  headed back to town.  Showered and cruised around town checking out bike shops and finding a halfway decent bar before returning to the house.  By now Phatboy was falling sick with the dreaded bug and you could here coughs starting in others.  had dinner in town before an early return to the house.  most headed to the sack.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1814651441

Sunday 16th. into the forest

 Bernie hired a bike and then we set off into the forest.  Thought we were on a nice uphill track that turned into a muddy climb consisting of pushing our bikes and mud up the hill.  You have to take what you get on a trip.  Finally got up to the top.  Plan was to ride down a couple of tracks get the shuttle for a couple of runs and then Bernie would depart.  Plan did not turn out.

We headed down Gunna Gotta which was fun and mucky.  Challenging in spots but we all had grins at the bottom....except Bernie who thought we were all mad shits.  We then rode numerous other tracks with interesting names that I can not remember.  Be Rude not to, Lions Tale, etc etc.  Some were really cool runs while others were a bit of uphill.  Finally we made it to the shuttle base only to find out it only picks up there once a day.  The rest of the time it is on the hill.  opps.  Bernie was tapped out so he headed home.  We had lunch and then headed up the hill to find the shuttle.  expected a big ride only to find it was just up the hill a tad.

Onto the shuttle to the top and then climbed to Billy T.  Mucky and technical.  All had some fun at different speeds.  MacGyver giving the drop and double gap jump a go.  Only person to.  Continued riding all these tracks.  Started feeling a bit tapped out from all the ups and downs and we headed back to base.  Finished on Ndo track which was a fun blast out.  42kms.  Did not drink half as much this day.  BBq was the highlight as it caught on fire and spoiled the food.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1812987020

15th October, day 2. Craters of the moon

Headed south to Taupo as there was racing in the Forest.  The weather looked a bit dodgy all the way there.  We had to buy a pass to get into the craters Tracks and then stopped at Huka Falls for a photo shoot.  Finally unloaded our bikes as the sun started to shine.  We headed off into the tracks expecting a lot from all we had heard.  Started with an easy climb then headed into an assortment of tracks.  Too many to name but debs rack was one as was outback and Skunk works which was a stinky climb.  The tracks were fine but most did not flow.  You climbed then a wee down then climb.  We all agreed it was like Bottlelake on a small hill.  Silverfox had a couple of body dabs but all in all a fun ride with no accidents.  All to soon we were back at the carpark.  crossed into the otherside for a quick play.  Rated it as just a 6 out of 10.  back to Vegas for dinner and drinks.  Lots more drinks too.  Bernie arrived to join us for the night and following mornings ride.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1811091887

Friday 14th October day 1 of Rotovegas visit

Up early to load the van.  met the guys as they arrived for a 6.30am departure.  Drove out to the airport where we met up with the others.  Finally we were all assembled.  Phatboy, Macgyver, Mellonfarmer, Bugs, Dozer, Tinkerbell, The Cook, Silverfox and I (rubberjaws).  Checked in bags and bikes then waited for the plane.  Cruisey flight to Auckland where we got our van and trailer for the journey south.  Good drive down stopping at the Queen Vic chippy in Cambridge for lunch.  Headed south again with the weather gradually closing in.  Arrived at the house in Rotovegas.  Good spot with plenty of space.  The weather was now shitting itself as we went off to do groceries and beer run.  Found a good supply of beer at the first spot so we were all happy.  back to the house, assembled the steads and then BBQ and a couple of beers before bed.

Sunday 9th October

Last ride before the trip.  Weather was looking dodgy later but 5 of us managed to get out. Phatboy arrived, then me, then Tinkerbell and Silverfox arrived in the van and Dozer cruised in on the bike.  A quick chat and then we headed around and climbed Rapaki.  We stripped to tee shirts at the gate. Not a bad blast up here with a little separation in the first half, then more in the 2nd half.  Phatboy arrived at the top first.  I led off over Vernon, giving it some pump, stopped to let a guy have a run down before continuing on with Phatboy hard on my tail.  Regrouped at the road before I led off towards Vic Park.  Nice good run through here. Hit the dipper at pace, no pedaling required coming out.  The downhill grommits were having a race day so we regrouped at the tape across the track waiting for the all clear then rode to the top of Vic.  A bit cooler so added a layer of clothing.  I headed down the road to avoid the runner while the others made their way to The Kiwi.  A few spots of moisture as we went down.  Then Phatboy put the curse on us and said "We might get wet ankles by time we get home".  The ankles were wet by time we got to the top of Worsley.  Rain made for sketchy body bag and then into New Worsley.  Last time I came down here it was dry and fast, now it was sketchy with greasy lines and roots.  We all survived until we hit the main trail where the rain jackets went on.  Water was running down the mud fest which helped keep us and the bikes slightly cleaner.  Onto the tarmac and we all wanted to get home.  The Fox took the road directly home, Phatboy headed down Barrington and Dozer skipped the St Martins line.  Tinkerbell and I arrived home quite drenched.  No time for talking just wanted to get warm and dry.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1799064410

Sunday 2nd October

Outside I went to find Silverfox and Tinkerbell ready and waiting.  Tinks first ride with the group since knee surgery.  We headed around and down Radley before turning towards the Heathcote  cut and the towpath to Ferrymead bridge where we connected with Dozer.  Up St Andrews at a steady pace until we reached John Brittain.  My idea of heading slightly right to avoid the little walk did not pay off but enough said.  heraded up with me leading feeling like I was doing good.  At the top I thought great timer for a rest and regroup but everyone was on my tail.  Into Old greenwood entrance rather than pushing Tinks too hard.  Good pace with me leading until a little dab when Dozer took over.  he showed me some skills while staying on his bike until we reached the ruins.. Little stop for a sandwich before heading down.  A great run down to the bottom, over the fence and then I managed to fall off in front of a bunch of guys stnding in the shingle.  We rode up Godley Head Rd before taking the farm track up the hill and heading back towards Evans Pass.  I had a blast here.  Have not done this track in this direction for years.  Taking all the high lines.  Fun oh fun.  Down Ct Thomas with dozer leading then Tinks, Me and the Fox.  Great run down here.  Out the bottom, downb the steps and then off to dot Com for drinks and snack before heading home.  Good pump with The Fox and Myself somehow leaving the other two behind across the causeway.  Regrouped at the bridge then Dozer split and we merry three finished our ride home.  Fun in the sun.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1785012224

Saturday 24th september

Bug's rode around to Rubberjaws place for the meeting time of 8am. Silver Fox was waiting the Rubberjaws who had just got outta the sack with Mrs Rubberjaws. Dozer arrived followed by Phatboy shortly after. Dozer, Bug's, The fox and Phatboy headed off towards Rapaki while Mellonfarmer who was running late chased them up Huntsbury. He was chasing hard but we were on Rapaki. Headed up Rapaki into the fog and drizzle.  Once we got to the top the fog had set in and visibility was down to around 50 meters. Up Vernon and around to the start of the Traverse. Bug's slipped on his new Knee pads then we headed off around the Traverse which was slippy on the rocks and a little damp in places. At Vic park we had a short regroup in the Trees before heading on wards towards Kennedy's bush. At the top off Kennedy's we meet Nina (Ex Heaphy with Bug's) who had came up. After a quick chat about the track ahead we headed down. Track was muddy with puddles and large cow dumps everywhere. All headed down with a little caution in places. Down and down we went with Mud a water flying off the wheels and ending on the riders. Arrived at the gate all in one piece then Bug's lead on the up till the next gate. Passed the old Recks who was going for a run then regroup at the next gate. Phatboy lead from here with Bug's then Dozer and the Fox behind. Into the Crocodile in the same order which was running fast. Few new off tracks from here which we must ride soon. Bug's stopped to catch up with another ex Heaphy mate while the others headed downwards towards the planting. After a few minutes Bug's headed downwards to the planting to find 125 people planing 1000 plants. After a little discussing Bug's planted Zero plants while the others who arrived 1st plant around 15 plants in total. Sausages and chat with Rubberjaws (Rode over on road) Tinkerbell (Drove over) and Mellonfarmer {who rode ahead of the others}. Headed back across town into the head wind with The Fox heading to his, Phatboy peeled off towards his and Bug's n Dozer headed to Ruberjaws place where Dozers car was waiting. Bug's headed home form here. 38km ride 

And I (Rubberjaws) got a very late start and headed off on the Cruiser.  I had beer and food in the carrier making it a heavy wee bike.  Headed through all the alleys etc round the river by Pricess Margeret and onto cashmere Rd following this all the way.  kept pace for a while with a bunch of roadies and finally got to the planting.  As mentioned it did not take long.  Into the wind for a partial return as I was stopping off for the rugby.  Good ride.  Watched the rugby and then rode home with The Cook into a steady breeze.

Tuesday 20th September

Dozer picked up Bug's and they drove to the top of Worsleys where The Cook was waiting. After a short discussion Dozer made the decision and we rode up the single track though the forest to the right. Dozer lead, then Bug's with The Cook right behind. Grinding up the steep and sometimes slippy up, Dozer had a little slippage which let Bug's get the lead. On wards we headed. Regroup about half way up where The Cook was finding it hard. Continued upwards with Dozer leading then The Cook and Bug's. Dozer pulled ahead and as the track got steeper The Cook game to a halt. Bug's continued upwards keeping Dozer insight. Arrived at Worsley's and a short while later The Cook arrived. Continued up The Body bag which was steeper than we remember. Bug's cleared it all with 3 rest stops to get the heart rate down a little. Dozer pushed the last 20 meters and the cook pushed a little more. Up to the top of the Nun then down we went. Bug's lead then Dozer and The Cook. Average ride down here as the track was dusty under lights. Back up the road to the top of Worsley. A large group of around 12 riders headed down the body bag. Once the dust settled we followed down. Got to the turn off to the left where the large group had stopped. After a quick chat they decided to follow us down the new track which Mellonfarmer had shown us a few weeks back. Non of them or The Cook had ridden this one before. Dozer lead then Bug's. Pulled away from the group on the down. Short wait at the bottom then they all arrived with The Cook in the middle. Big smiles and hooting from them all as they loved it. They headed back up another up while we headed down the slippy track we had ridden up at the start. Back to the cars then off for a quick Beer at the Hop.     

Meanwhile I dropped the daughter off at her St John thing and hopped on the bike for a road ride. Headed around Cashmere Rd then up Hackthorne Rd.  Decided to stand in the pedals most of the way up to Macmillan Ave for some extra training.  grunted up to the top of Hackthorne then up to Longhurst.  Followed this to the end thinking that it was gonna be a steep climb out.  It was steep.  I decided also to do all the streets on the left also.  Scarff Pl and Harry Ell Drive  were quite steep.  From here I went back to Takehe Drive, Kidson Tce, back up Dyers and right into Hackthorne then up MacMillan and down Dyers.  11od kms and 370m climbing.

Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th split ride

Rubberjaws did a solo ride to the Travis Wetland Planting.  I headed off around the Heathcote via Richardson Tce, down Radley then cut through 2 cemetries and came out on Maces Rd.  Down Ruru onto Dyers before heading down Bridge St and left onto the track on the coastal side of the Avon.  Good ride.  Amazing how open this looks without all the houses.  Zigged and Zagged through Brighton before heading through Rawhiti Domain.  Into the alley ways until Effingham St and onto Beach Rd.  Quick toilet stop at Broad Park before the long haul along the beach track.  Finally hanging a left into the single track.  Steady pace all the way and managed a full circuit back to Broad Park with plenty of time to spare.  Down Bridge st with 15 minutes to spare before planting was due to start.  Helped plant with Mellonfarmer who arrived on his Phatty. Planting finished and a pump home followed.  Great ride if I do say so myself.
http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1753793978

While on Sunday......
The Fox n Dozer meet and Bug's place at 9am. The 3 headed down Alport then left on Ferry road though the roundabout then over the curb and into the single track around the river. Bug's leading with Dozer then The fox. Dozer had a small issue mounting the bridge after the 90 degree corners. Continued on with a large group of silver backs on the track. After a bit of panic they moved to the side of the track. Round to the bridge where long sleeve tops where removed before the climb. Up St Andrews Hill we headed the normal way. As we climbed thing's warmed up and up. Short rest just before Upper Hornbrook road. Continued on up to the Shared track though the paddocks. Good climb by all. Around below the Summit road on John Britten then across the summit road and up towards the Aerials. A few other riders around the top. One went just before us so Dozer and Bug's gave chase and passed him at the fence. Headed down from here though the rocks and tussock at a flying pace. Regroup at the junction of Greenwood. Another rider headed down before us so we gave him a couple of minutes head start then gave chase. Bug's leading then Dozer not to far behind and The Fox behind him. Bug's was flying and catching the guy ahead until 1/3 way down where we cut between the two bug rocks Bug's handle bar clipped the rock on the way past. Next thing he was off and rolling down though the tussock without the Reign. Picked myself up as Dozer arrived. Small graze to the forearm and a rip to the shorts. Back on the bike and gave chase again. After the gloomy Gouge Bug's could see the guy below so chased harder. Caught him on the tight corner before the rocky up. Out though the bottom and over the fence at the Summit road. Fantastic ride except for the small crash 1/3 of the way down. Regroup then out on the road towards Godly. 1/2 way out we climbed the gate up the uphill and cut up though the paddocks to the single track at the top. Down this we headed heading back towards Evans Pass. Great ride down here to the top of Captain Thomas. Bug's lead down here with Dozer behind then Foxey not far behind. Cleared all the rocky downs and regroup after the up. Down though the lower section with The Fox going down the new track next to the cabbage tree for the 1st time. Out though the bottom which work has been done on recently before the new bridge. The lines and camber are wrong here so we had to slow with caution. Down the steps past the horse paddocks then into Sumner for Tea and coffees. Though Redcliffs and across the Causeway to Ferrymead where The Fox lead us back around the river and back to Bug's place. 30.5km                
http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1755844847

Saturday 3rd September

Went outside feeling quite chipper and met with The Cook and Phatboy.  Quick catchup and then I led off around the road, through the park to the footbridge by the heathcote Cut where we collected Bugs.  Continued on around to Ferrymead Bridge where we met Dozer.  Got rid of a layer and then set off up the hill.  I led all the way on the tarmac so obviously was setting a good pace.  Felt really good today.  Finally got to the off road.  Went in the new entrance where Phatboy set off first at a cracking pace.  I gave chase and although at times I reeled him in a bit never could gain enough.  Regrouped at the top hairpin loop.  Phatboy led off again followed by me then Bugs, Dozer and the Cook.  Cocked up the last rocks but stayed on the bike without dabbing then pushed hard around the loop track after Phatboy.  One dab along the way.  Lots of riders out today.  Must of been the sunshine.  Into the Mt Pleasant climb in the same order.  Gave chase again and was starting to climb when I fluffed a rock causing me to dab.  Bugs passed me at this point so I stayed on his wheel the rest of the way up.  Regrouped and had a bite to eat.  Time for some down.  Bugs insisted on filming me so off we went.  The rocks were ok but not perfect, the run through the tussocks was a good flow.  Regrouped again and set off down Greenwood.  Still had Bugs and Dozer on my tail.  Ok run.  Not my fastest.  Near the last corner Bugs and Dozer fighting over the line, I started laughing and nearly fell off listening to them.  Let them through and continued on down.  Up Godley with us all cleaning the first climb, most stuffing the 2nd and then all having differing levels of dabbing from here.  Good run down the first downhill, good climb up and over to PFMTBC Rock before heading down Anaconda.  I had a close call dabbing the ground with knee and shoulder before continuing on.  Finished ok before heading up over Scarborough and to Dot Com.  We met Tinkerbell and Mrs Tinks for coffee.  We all pumped home along the usual route with mr and Mrs Tinks doing the last section alone.  Great ride.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1721858648

Tuesday 30th August

Dozer arrived at Bug's place and we rode down past Bamford school then around the river. The Cook texted to say he will start the climb up Rapaki. Continued around following the river all the way to Rapaki. Phatboy arrived at the same time as us. Dozer pealed off to see Mrs Dozer who was suppose to be walking some steps. No sign of her so he joined Bug's and Phatboy on the climb up Rapaki. Pumped up at a steady clip hoping to catch The Cook before the top. Lots of walkers and a few riders coming down. Halfway up before we needed lights on. Past the gate and then started the last steep climb. Caught upto The Cook here who was finding it hard. Slowed a little but Bug's n Dozer slowly pulled away. Phatboy stayed with The Cook for a while then The Cook advised him to head on with the boys and he will head back down. Regroup at the top under the Stars with No wind. A few others arrived so we headed up Vernon. Phatboy lead, then Bug's and Dozer. Short stop at the start of the Traverse. Into the Traverse in the same order around to the top of Vic park. Dropped down though the Rock garden and made our way down to the Skidder site. Headed down from here with Phatboy having a crash with a tree that wouldn't move. More dents to his knees and twisted handle bars and brake lever. Some repairs were made then on wards down though Vic park. No issues down here just a bit of mud and water to make things slippery in places. Across the creek then up though the hidden valley. Into Bowenvale in the same order. Great ride down here with a little water and mud here also. All got down here with a bit of mud on the bikes and faces. Out though the gate and headed back across town. Phatboy turned off towards his and Dozer n Bug's headed to Bug's place. Great ride with a bit of mud and sweet. 24km. 

Sunday 28th August

Planting day so up and onto the Cruiser and then Silverfox and I headed around to Phatboys.  We collected him, Mellonfarmer and Dozer before heading up Kilmore and through Hagley Park, past Mona Vale and then along the bike lane beside the railway track.  Pumped all the way to Tuckers Rd and cut through a couple streets and onto Claridges and across to Sawyers Arm Rd.  Up here over Johns Rd and into the reserve by the lakes.  Around here and into the track along the Otakaikino River to the planting site.  Spent 2 hours planting before reversing our journey.  Good steady pump all the way back.  Split into 2 groups at Mona Vale.  Silverfox and I headed towards Riccarton and then past Placemakers, Bunnings and onto Whitleigh Ave with me stopping at Carapult Employment for pre rugby meeting.  Watched the game, imbibed and then pumped the 5kms home from there.  A round trip of 43km approximately for the day.

Tuesday 23rd August

Dozer picked up Bugs and we drove to the bottom of Captain Thomas. The Cook was waiting there. Hooked up the lights etc and headed up the road to the start of Captain Thomas. Bug's lead on the up with The Cook behind and then Dozer, Cleared the 1st tight switch backs with Dozer getting ahead of The Cook. Half way up the next switchbacks The Cook had dropped behind. Regroup and found The Cook was not feeling the best. Plodded on with another regroup at the rocks. The Cook was feeling bad. At the top of the rocks The Cook decided to let us go ahead while he slowly made his way to the summit road. Up we headed at a steady pace. At the Summit road no stopping and headed up the road towards the top of Greenwood. Kept an eye on the Cook as we climbed and see he made it to the Summit road. Up and Up we went. Bugs lead straight in Greenwood. Fast trip around the start to the rurins. Headed down from here at a cracking speed. Dozer was hot on the heals of Bug's who could not get a gap on him. Half way down Bug's cocked up a couple of rocks which held up Dozer slightly. Down we headed with Bug's keeping ahead of Dozer just. Missed the 1st rocky climb and even the 2nd. At the Summit road Dozer was pumped with his ride. Into Ct Thomas in the same order. Flew down here clearing all the rocks and drops and loving it. Bug's got a small lead on Dozer. Down though the lower half at speed and before we knew it we were at the bottom. The Cook's car was gone. Great ride under lights. Off for a quick pint at The Twisted Hop.   

Meanwhile Rubberjaws who had family commitments to deal with took some time in the middle to jump on his bike at the end of Colombo and head around Cashmere Rd and up Hackthorne Rd to the Takehe.  Back down Dyers around Cashmere and up Hackthorne for a 2nd loop before coming down Dyers right into Westenra Tce back up to Takehe and down Kidson Tce.  Back up Dyers to Hackthorne where he went down and right into MacMillan Ave.  It was pretty misty now so he went down Dyers to pick up Grace.  About the same climbing metres and distance as the boys above.

Sunday 21st August

Mellonfarmer, Bugs, Dozer and I set off from mine.  We headed up Crapaki at a steady pace.  Judged my riding on Bugs who keeps a steady pace. Overall a good pace.  I don't think anyone poodled completely up the hill no matter what Mellonfarmer says. I felt good while Dozer struggled with his cold recovery.  Up and over Mt Vernon, catching and passing a couple of slower guys.  My ambition was not to loose touch with Bugs by too much.  Around the Traverse and this was an awesome blast at a good fast pace with a wee stop at the top of Vic before heading down Thompsons.  Up the road to the top of Marleys and then down to the Kiwi.  Cleaned this but still not enjoying it as much as in the past.  Back up to the top and then down the Body Bag.  Followed Mellonfarmer into a new track.  Awesome track for a change.  Got a bit dark with the glasses on.  Sweet flow though.  Onto the the climbing track which was muddy as in spots.  Onto the road and down to the Farside.  Good little run down here then off for a tea.  Heading home we bumped into Tinkerbell and Mrs Tinker.  Continued on a getting home in plenty of time.  Bloody Good ride.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1691721131

Sunday 14th August

The weather on Saturday was shite so the planting was cancelled and we decided to ride on Sunday.  Went outside to find Twopot and Silverfox ready to go.  Bugs arrived followed closely by Dozer and then Phatboy.  We headed around the road and then the track along the Heathcote Cut to Ferrymead Bridge where we got rid of a layer.  I set off up St Andrews with the rest on the road behind me as they were ready.  Stopped on the top Flat of Marama Cres as the weather was warmer so another layer removed.  After this a steady ride up St Andrews with me dropping behind a tad near the tennis court. Gave a push and caught up to the others by the big hedge.  Had a short break here but I rode on and set off up the steep section and into the path. The others all caught up as we headed off the last steep uphill onto another entrance into John Britten.  We had a chat and off we went heading ever upwards.  Track was in great nick with only a couple of greasy sections.  Regrouped at the turning loop before heading up the Old John Brittan track.  A bit greasy over the rocks and then we followed Phatboy around the loop track which was very greasy at times.  Passengers on bikes rather than riders.  Up onto the tarmac and up Broadleaf Lane for a rest above Mt Pleasant.  Phatboy and Bugs led off.  Wow this was greasy in a lot of places.  In fact it was more than greasy in some spots.  Passengers going downhill.  Got more confident as we went down some hooting and hollowing coming out of mouths, laughter and fear.  We survived and regrouped at the bottom.  Down the road to the top of Bridal Path.  Decided that the Castle Rock track would more than likely be too wet and greasy for an uphill so up the road we went and down the other side.  Into Witch Hill which was not to bad a couple of dabs in the worst grease and then regroup at Rapaki.  Phatboy started telling some of some improvements to shocks.  A story I had heard so I led Silverfox and Twopot up over Vernon.  Some female runner mentioned that riders should giveway while we were in a steep spot so I said " we are riding uphill so shut your mouth" and carried on.   Straight into Traverse and at the rocks we turnt into the track heading down towards Old Skool.  Waited for the others and down we went.  Into Old skool all taking different lines, Phatboy taking off piste all the way.  Into the single track which was surprisingly good for the most of it.  A couple of sketchy bits and passengers we became in a few spots.  Survived it all and felt really good at the bottom.  best ride I have had for ages.  Not bad going up and not so jittery coming down.  May it continue to improve.  Silverfox headed home and the rest of us headed to Fava for coffee etc before splitting for home.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1676108903

Sunday 7th August

Cool morning with tracks closed due to the damp weather we had been having.  Went outside and Mellonfarmer and Silverfox were ready to go.  Phatboy arrived shortly thereafter and we set off around the normal route to Ferrymead Bridge.  Delayed here and set off up St Andrews with a regroup at Marama.  Faster than I thought I would be but still got some chest pain.  Decided to squirt some nitro on my finger and lick it off.  Waited a couple of minutes and felt better so continued upwards at a steady pace.  The guys were good taking it easy.  Up went went to the top of Mt Pleasant / Summit Rd.  Cruised down to the Pines.  Very Cool so relayed before heading down through the farm.  Some work on the farm track making it easy riding.  Down Richmond Hill and to Dot Com for drinks.  Headed home at a steady pace with a good pump across the causeway.  Split into 2 groups and home we headed.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1660240265

Sunday 31st July

Lets go planting.  Time to test the body for me on a bit of a cruise ride.  Silverfox and Dozer arrived at mine and we loaded our bikes into the van for a quick trip to Lyttleton. We hooked up with Phatboy before riding up the bridge and carrying our bikes down the temporary steps to the Ferry.  Across to Diamond Harbour we went.  Nice warm up on the road from the Ferry to the top before a steeady ride to Orton Bradley along the road.  Quick chat to Ian (Park Manager) and a chat with The Cook who was setting up the planting before we cruised into the short MTB track.  Good wee loop climbing up some switchbacks and riding through some trees before crossing a narrow bridge and dropping back down to the park in time for the safety briefing.  2 groups for planting.  We took the uphill group so back onto the bikes for a grunt up the hill.  Nice wee planting site in the sun.  Planting went quick so we jumped back on the bikes down the hill and back into the MTB track in reverse.  Different sort of climb from this side.  On a short wee climb Phatboy changed gears, chain sucked and ripped the hanger off.  Repairs went on for 10 minutes as he turnt the Yeti into a single speed.  Carried on the short distance to the top before a lovely little down hill.  Back to the Red schoolhouse for tea and muffins.  From here I set the pace on the ride back to the Ferry.  Pushed myself quite hard.  Felt good about the pace too.  Mellonfarmer arrived in his car just as we got back to the shops area of Diamond Harbour.  He was taking his Phatbike up to the snow - which he was successful in doing..  We stopped for a quick cuppa before arriving just in time for the 1pm sailing.  Back to the vehicles and home shortly beforte 1.30pm.  Good wee ride.

Thursday 29th July

Dozer picked up Bugs and drove to Upper Hornbrook road. Not long until The Cook arrived. Unloaded the bikes then started on the up. Dozer leading with Bug's behind then The Cook. 1st 100m then the Cook stopped. Lack of air in the bottom of the tyre. Headed on up with the front two having a small lead over the cook. Regroup at the top switch back. Bugs lead across John Brittan. Great ride though the rocks to the summit road. Crossed the road and jumped the fence where we had a short break. Dozer lead on the up from here and we headed up and up towards the Aerials. Dozer had a couple of stalls on some rocks on the up as did the Cook. Regroup at the gate then up to the top. Into the down with Dozer leading and Bug's hot on his tail. Though the rocks and tussock at speed as the track was dry n firm. Out to the top of Greenwood and a short wait for The Cook who had a close call with a large rock. Into Greenwood with Bug's leading then Dozer chasing and the cook following. Great ride down here with the front two pulling away from the last. Track was fast and so were we. Regroup at the road. Started the climb with The Cook setting a fast pace on the up. We all pumped hard on the up with The Cook falling behind in the last 300m from the top. Good effort by the Cook on the up. Into the shared track to the car with the wind and tears in our eyes on the down. Back at the cars then off for a Beer at the Twisted Hop. Great night for a great ride. 

Meanwhile, McGuyver and Mellonfarmer were exploring new (to them) trails with a whole different bunch of guys...

Saturday 23rd July

Dozer drove to Bug's place then the two rode the road to the Meeting point at Dot Com, The Cook had dropped the work van at Redcliffs and rode the rest to Dot Com. Waiting a little and no one else showed so headed up to the start of Captain Thomas. Dozer lead on the up with Bug's then the cook. Dozer missed the 1st steep hairpin while the others cleared it. Upwards we headed then Dozer stopped to check out a new jump installed on the down. Bug's grabbed the lead from here and continued on the up. Cleared all the hairpins with the others getting most. Though the rocks with a little walking and some riding. Regroup half way for the Cook to catch up who was doing well today. Up to the summit road then left towards Godley. Bug's n Dozer both got to 1 peddle stroke from the top of the 1st rock climb with The Cook clearing it for a 1st. Upwards over the next steep rocky section taking the left side for a change. Bug's n Dozer cleared this but not sure about the Cook. On wards though the rocks we headed spreading out a little. All having some Dabs from time to time. Wind had picked up now which was blowing us around a little. Regroup after the cattle stop then into the down. Great ride down here except for the loose shingle on the track. Into the up again with Bug's leading, then Dozer and then The Cook. Down we headed and over the PFMTBC rock then Bug's nearly lost it on the cattle stop when the rear wheel slid out. Regroup at the top of the Anaconda. Headed out towards the heads on the top side of the road. All going ok though here then into the down to the Carpark at the heads. Caution towards the bottom as there was a couple with a loose dog on the track before the road. Across the road and into the single track back towards the Anaconda. Dozer leading now and setting a good speed. Regroup at the top of the Anaconda then down we headed. Flew down here enjoying all the high lines on the berms and getting a little air on the odd rise. All down in one piece. Out though the tail and into the carpark at Taylor's. Started the grind up the road and before we knew it we were at the top. The Cook was riding well today and kept close behind on the up. Down the road with a top speed of 56km then around the walkway to Dot Com. Coffee, Hot Choc and Ginger Beer and then we were off towards Redcliffs. Dozer set a cracking pace along here and the Cook got left behind, who we presume jumped in the van and headed home. The others continued across the Causeway with Bug's falling behind a little. Regroup at the bridge then into the track behind the shops. Nice ride though here then onto the main road at the round about and then down Bug's street to his. Dozer headed home from here. 35km with 2 hours 20min ride time.  

Tuesday 19th July - the Nun's reign.

The fellas (Phatty, Skinny, Mellony, Dozey, Buggsy, and TooPotty) all assembled at the Kiwi, rode up the road, down the nun, with a few pulling out to head back up at the halfway mark and a few heading on down.  Mellons craashed pretty good near the bottom doing in his shoulder and elbow.  They rode back up, and it started to rain proper, and the trails became slick as a slick thing and TooPotty crashed garking his knee too, so everyone bailed to the pub around 7.30...

Sunday 17th July

Bugs rode to the meeting point at Rubberjaws place who was not riding today. The Silverfox arrived just after Bug's followed by Dozer then Phatboy. We headed around the river towards Rapiki. Started the upward ride with a cold head, then side, then head wind. Lots of runners coming down the hill carrying Tyres, Fence posts, Ropes and even a large Sledge hammer. Great way of getting fit I guess. All arrived at the Summit road to be meet by a cold strong wind. Didn't hang around too long then headed over Witch Hill. Phatbory 1st, Bug's next, Dozer then Silverfox. Few dabs for most but got there in the end. Around the road to keep ahead of a large group following. Phatboy dropped into the single track from Castle rock to the Bridle path. Dozer followed then Bug's with the Gopro recording. Dozer threw a chain after the slippy angled rock between the switch backs. After a quick adjustment he was on his way again. After the switchback he had a few issues which caused him to nearly fall off the side of the next wooden bridge, all caught on film. On wards chasing Phatboy who was on a mission to make a record time on his MAP MY RIDE. Regroup at the top of the Bridle path behind the water tank for shelter from the strong southerly. Around the road below the Gonadal the up into the single track up to the Aerials. Bit of a hard climb with the wind but after a short regroup at the gate we were all at the top. Downwards we headed the Phatboy taking the old way round and Dozer and Bug's taking the new steep direct root. Over the fence with Phatboy behind Dozer n Bugs now. The fox was bringing up the rear. Rocks were slippery with Bug's having a close call when his peddle caught a large rock. Though the tussocks at a fast speed with the wind pushing us along. Into Greenwood with the 1st 3 having a great run. Got to the 1st rocky climb at the bottom and no Silverfox. He was up around the top with a flat tyre. Waited at the rock watching the other riders from the big group behind have a crack at the rocky climb. Only one made it. Several minutes later The Fox arrived and we were on our way to the bottom. At the road Phatboy put the more air in the Foxes Rear. Into Cpt Thomas in the same order as Greenwood. Great ride down here for the 1st 3 and The Fox taking it easy as he didn't wanta blow another tyre. Regroup after all the rocks then down though the switchbacks to the bottom. Rain was just starting so we headed down the road to Dot Com where Tinkerbell was waiting for Coffee. Coffees and food and chat then on wards though Redcliffs and the Causeway to Ferrymead. Phatboy headed down Linwood Ave to home while the others went down Ferry Road. Bug's turned off here and the others headed to Rubberjaws. Dozer headed home in the van while The Fox rode to his. Great windy ride without anyone getting to wet. 31.3km and 862m climbing for Bugs. 

Meanwhile the day before, McGuyver and Mellonfarmer did a mucky Wharfdale of very similar proportions to that.

Tuesday 12th July

Dozer picked up Bugs and drove to Upper Hornbrook road. Nice clear night with a slight crisp refreshing wind. Unloaded the bikes then headed up the shared track though the paddocks. Bug's leading with Dozer bringing up the rear. Straight into the track below the road then followed the lower track which Mellowfarmer showed us a few weeks back. Across the road then a short stop before climbing the fence and heading up the single track to the aerials. Bugs got a small lead on Dozer. Wind had picked up a little at the top. Dropped into the single track though the tussocks to Greenwood. Great run down here with Bugs getting the lead over Dozer while Dozer was adjusting his light. Into Greenwood at a nice pace as always. Track was dry but ruff in a few places. Both missed the 1st rocky up but enjoyed the rest. Out onto the road then started the grind up the road to the top. No one else out riding tonight. Dropped into the shared track to the car. Fast ride down here as always. Back to the car, 12.5km in 1 hour 8 min. Quick pint at the Twisted Hop then home by 9pm.   

Sunday 10th July

Drove out to Sumner for a 9.15 start.  Phatboy, Twopot and Dozer also showed up.  We headed up Ct Thomas.  Started well then we were passed by a large posse of young female runners.  I was plodding my way up trying to go as hard as I could be the other 3 still pulled away.  I got rid of my first layer as it flattened out above the hairpin.  Plod grind plod I went.  Struggling on the rocks all the way.  No flow.  Started getting chest pain on the steep climb which continued to the top.  Pissed off.  Chatted with the guys and decided I would ride the road to the Anaconda while they went over the top.  Got there in plenty of time.  They then did the track above the road and I went below the road.  Met at Godley then came back nicely.  Down the snake we went then the grind over Scarborough.  Dot Com then home.  19.5km ride but it was cold.

Sunday 3rd July

I finally got out for a group ride with the lads where I started with them.  Dozer and Bugs arrived at mine and we set off.  Phatboy was running late and was gonna catch us up.  We headed around Hansens Park and then out and into the climb up Ramahana, Aotea and Huntsbury.  Stopped at the Aotea hairpin to take off some layers.  It warmed up pretty quick.  Continued on up and at the road end I stopped for a pee.  Phatboy arrived just after this.  Onwards we rode.  The boys stopped while Phatboy delayered and I continued not wanting to slow them down.  Bugs caught me not long before the climb by the landing strip.  As the others caught up I needed a short break to get rid of some chest pain.  Slow grind up the last stretch but finally we were there.  Stopped to chat with Rex and his MTB club.  They took off and then we waited to give them a start.  I tail ended.  Not a bad run with the track in great condition.  Phatboy caught the club just after the half way then waited before giving more chase.  I was a little slow, more cautious than in the past.  Time will get me back up there.  Around and to the top of Vic then down Thompsons.  Nice run down here.  Grind grind up the road and I decided I was flagging so suggested the lads go ahead and do a loop of Marleys.  They decided not to.  They are nice lads really.  Around to Kennedies and up the small climb to the top.  Phatboy led off at great speed while the rest picked a line through the rocky section then regrouped at the first flat zone.  Continued on down with the others getting some distance when I got caught among walkers and beasts at the same time.  Finally caught them at the gate.  All feeling pretty chuffed.  Uo Siberia and down the the Low Road before heading down Crocidile and into the Connector track.  This is a bit tame.  Finally out the bottom and into the road back.  Got past by a group of roadies on the first climb.  Just before Westmoreland they were having a rest.  They took off ahead of us so I hooked onto the tailend.  Realised they were all young girls.  Hmmmmm.  The last stretch down Cashmere Rd Bugs led us past and we pumped along until we stopped for coffee.  They stopped as well where we realised exactly how young they were.  Then we headed home by the river route.  31.75 km for me and Dozer while the other 2 did about 38km.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1580318249

Saturday 25th June

A posse of four and a solo journey over the same ground.

For the first time in a while i was hitting the hills so I headed out earlier than the others to see how I would fair.  I unloaded the bike outside of Dot Com at 8.20 and started my journey.  headed up the road to Sumnervale at a warm up pace and then started up Ct Thomas.  1st time over the new bridge.  Just chugged up the hill only dabbing once in the lower section on the real sharp hairpin.  had to stop on the 1st down of rocks when my glasses fogged up but otherwise had a good climb to the top.  I did better than I thought I would.  Headed up onto the Godley Track cleaning the 1st set of rocks for the 1st time ever.  Love the new line in here...Hahaha.  Had a look down below and I could see the other four starting the bottom of the Ct Thomas. They were Bugs, Dozer, Silverfox and Phatboy. I expected them on the track sooner.  I headed off up the Godley Track dabbing on every second rock like a little girl.  Eventually got some sort of rhythm going.  It turns out the others except Bugs did not have much more success. I took it a bit more sedately on the downhills as I was solo riding.  The last section into Livingstone Col was pretty boney.  Up and over to breeze Col where I stopped and did a repair on PFMTBC ROck.  1 of the stones had somehow been knocked out of the downhill side.  Continued on above the road following the sheep trail out to Godley where i just rode on and came back below the road.  feeling good.  No sign of the others at breeze so doodled on down the Anaconda which is in good condition except one hairpin where you have to go high.  Down and out up Taylors Rd and down to Dotcom.  had a salad and a pot of tea expecting the lads at anytime finally texting them.  They arrived just over and hour after me so they stopped a lot more than me. Just before we left The Cook arrived after having ridden up St Andrews, down Greenwood and Ct Thomas.  Riding time for them was 10 minutes faster overall so next week will set off only 10 minutes ahead and see where that leads me.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1561972742

Tuesday 21st June

Decided not to do the Hagley Park night ride so Dozer meet at Bugs place at 610pm and we headed off to the river besides Bamford School. Turned left and headed under the bridge. Spring high tide so this had about 2 inches of water to ride though. Continued behind Ferrymead on the single track to St Andrews Hill. Up we headed and a steady pace. Stopped to remove some thermals as the night was warm with no wind. Continued up and up to the shared track at Upper Hornbrook road. Rest here admiring the lights of the city and huge fire out towards Darfield. Continued up to nearly the summit road then turned right and rode though John Britten track. Popped over the road and headed up the single track to the aerials. No rest here as we dropped into the down hill. Bugs lead with Mr Dozer not far behind. Though the tussocks and straight into Greenwood. Great run down here with Bugs getting a small lead on Dozer till Dozer yelled out that he had a flat. Changed this looking over the lights of Sumner with a full moon. Continued down wards with Dozer taking it easier as he didn't want another snake bite. Bugs nearly got the 1st rocky up, just half a peddle from completing it. At the bottom we headed down the road then dropped into Captain Thomas. Bugs lead getting a small gap on Dozer. Cleared all the rocky downs and walked the top of the rocky up as always. Dozers head light died here and he headed down the rest with just his bar light. Though the switch backs and down the new track next to the cabbage tree and then we were at the bottom. Down the steps and past the paddocks then we were at the road. Adjustment made to Dozers brakes then onwards though Sumner, Redcliffs and across the Causeway to Ferrymead. Running later than normal as this was a big ride, Decided what the hell so stopped for a Speights then rode back to Bugs place. Home round 9.30pm and rode 27km.   

Sundays 19th june

Bug's drove to The Fox's place and passed Phatboy who was riding over there. Dozer had already arrived so there was 4 of us. Headed around the road to the Halswall Quarry. Nice warm up which got the heart pumping before the hill for a change. Headed up the normal C2 with Dozer leading followed by Phatboy then Bugs and The Fox. Continued up with Phatboy leading now. Up n Up we headed with some clearing all the ups and some not quite. Headed up and up with some running's passing us where the cows were and causing a mini stampede. Just past the gate Phatboy managed to get his favorite shorts hooked on his seat which caused a rip. This got bigger and bigger as the day went on until at the end his undies were there for all to see. Finally we arrived at the summit road. Headed around the road to the top of the Nun. Bug's got the Gopro filming for the down. Great ride down here with us all enjoying it. Headed up to Vic park for the down with Phatboy leading then Dozer, Bug's (Filming) and then the Fox. Though the rock garden and down the normal way with some changes to the lead at times. Up into the Hidden Valley with us all having some issues around the creek at the bottom. Another fantastic run down here with Dozer getting a flat half way down. Out the bottom then down the road. Phatboy headed home from here while the others headed to Foxes where Mrs Fox made a nice coffee and home made cookies. Great ride with no rain.   

Meanwhile Rubberjaws got up and did a solo ride on the fl;at again. He is not happy to always being on the flat.  Anyhow he headed up Opawa onto Shakespear Rd to the end and up Burke St before hanging a right on Selwyn Left into Poulson and then right towards Hagley Park.  Started heading south around South Hagley crossed over by the hospital and south around North Hagley until I got back to the hospital again.  Crossed over and finished the rest of South Hagley before retracing my outward journey home.  Drs tomorrow and hospital Tuesday maybe I can get a date to start riding the hills again.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1547823350

Tooesday 14th June

Dozer picked up Bug's and drove out to bottom of Captain Thomas where we meet up with The Cook. Cool but clear night with no wind. Started up the road to the start of Captain Thomas. Climbed the fence at the start and noticed the new bridge in Action. Dozer started the up with Bug's behind then The Cook. Bit of a grunt up here with Dozer cocking up the 1st hairpin climb which let Bug's get to the front. Quick rest then headed upwards in the same order as the start. Bugs cleared all the corners with The Cook and Dozer missing a couple. Regroup at the 1st chair to find The Cook was having heart/dizzy issues as a few weeks back. Progressed upwards the front 2 getting a gab on The Cook due to his issues. Few regroups on the up then at the summit road the Cook decided to head down the road to the car and home. Bug's n Dozer headed out towards Godley on the road watching The Cooks light below to make sure he got down to the car safety. Cut up though the paddock to hook into the Godley single track. Headed back towards Evans pass on the down for a change. This was great under lights with both clearing it all. Time was moving along due to the issues earlier so we headed down Captain Thomas with Dozer leading and Bugs behind with the Gopro filming. Great run down here with both clearing it all except for the normal little up. (Link to video to follow soon). Back out to the car and off for a quick jug of speights. Great ride and The Cook got home safely.  

Sunday 12th June

9am start at Steve's Mellonfarmer wrote most of the following.   Met the boys by the church: Tony, Andy and Wayne, and we toodled around to Crapaki and headed on up. A lot of walkers today, older folk, and a few riders.  Delayered after the 2nd gate, and then I got my climb on and just tapped away at it, putting a bit of a gap between me and the boys, regrouping on the flat then pushing off ahead again.  Brief stop at the top and then off up Vernon.  Not a bad climb up here, and over to the Traverse - Andy flatting on the final drop to the road. 

Chatted with a couple guys here then we headed off around, for Vic Park.  Nice flow around the Traverse, such a familiar puppy.  Noted some new brick work on what I never thought of as a particularly damage-prone section.  On the descent to the pond, bits of head wind, I was chasing some dude, who put the power on the climb to keep ahead of me.  Regrouped at the usual spot before Sugarloaf and then off again, chasing down the some dude again, some sections of no wind, some of tail.  Stopped before the trees and then we headed in, down 'coffee break', Andy hard on my tail down here.  Bypassed the see-saw and off down the paddock, looking back to see the rain on the plains heading our way (or so it looked).  Good tail wind down here too, over the cattlestop and into the rocks, ducking and weaving through them and into the trees, across then around and down, peeling left into my old favourite, all cleared of the trees of old storms, and heaps of fun again. 

Out to the skidder site and we re-layered before heading into Shazza's.  Nice pop and weave down through here, tho rootier bits at the bottom were less so.  Across and down into Brent's, taking the hard left line, and blazing down through the forest to the bottom.  Regrouped again, and off into Bridges and Flow, across and into Nu Bridges, back and forth, back and forth, last couple of corners starting to get a bit weird.  Then down onto the 4wd track and blazing down to the Hidden Valley.  Bollocksed about a metre after the creek then rolled on round the first hairpin, down into granny for the sluggardly climb.  Dabbed around the second corner and waited until Andy swung into view, then off again, climby climbing like a climbing thing.  Nicely nicely up the last, wind really howling in the trees and powerlines overhead.  Regrouped at the stile, and off again, up and around then blasting.  I thought I was flowing really nicely; certainly felt good on the bike.  Floated over some rocks and blasted away, then pffft pffft pffft...  dang.  Stopped on one of the corners and had to swap out a tube.  A few riders passed through while we were stopped, and Tony and Wayno continued on ahead.  Once fixed, Andy and me continued our merry way.  BLAST of wind nearly took my bike from me climbing the stile, then off again, staying light on the tires, and prancing down the hill.  Slowly wound in the girl and her guy that'd passed us earlier, stopping briefly to give her a bit of gap.  Then caught her later and she pulled up, then I chased down her guy.  He stopped pretty much at the bottom for her, so I passed on by and proceeded to stuff up the last dodgy offpiste final section.  Rolled down the final track to Tony and Wayne at the bottom stile.  Off down the road, tail wind pushing us all, and Wayne and me split from the others, over to Eastern and around, him continuing on when I peeled off for Wilsons.  Had forgotten about the roadworks, and had to go to the tunnel, then back streets til Stanmore for the last, tail wind assisted, blast home.  Home by 11.30 am.  Nice.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1531887149

Meanwhile Rubberjaws did a flat ride as part of his recovery programme.  I headed out at 8.15am past the Church, over the foot-bridge, Down Ford Rd and across the other foot-bridge and then up the side st, through the ally and out past New World heading down Gamblins and then Tennyson St.  Lots of side streets later I started on the cycleway on Barrington heading towards Annex Rd.  Crossed over Lincoln Rd etc along the way.  Then it went down Birmingham Dr and Lunns Rd before crossing over Curletts.  Due to all that roadworks it detours onto Parkhouse and into the industrial area before rejoining the cycleway.  From here it was a good push out to Springs Rd where I retraced my steps to the underpass just before Curletts.  This crossed me over towards The AMP showgrounds and it heads towards Lincoln RD.  Little detour for a piss stop before heading down Hoon Hay Rd, left into Sparks ands then cut through Centenial Park, down Rose St and back onto the route I took on the way there.  Good steady pump, no real chest pain and felt great, although I needed a nana nap in the afternoon.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1531762718

Tuesday 7th June

Dozer picked up Bugs and headed to Upper Hornbrook road, Waiting there was Tinkerbell, Phatboy, The Cook and MacGyver. The wind was strong and cold from the East as usual for that spot. After Phatboy fixed his light (Plugged it in) we headed though the new gate. Found the old fence which we climb over has been pulled down. MacGyver lead on the up on his single speed with Phatboy and rest following behind. Wind was pushing us around a little on the up with us all reaching the top gate not too far apart. Headed around John Britten to the cattle stop with some of us having a couple of small issues on the rocks with wet tyres. Across the road and fence then after admiring the city lights we headed up towards the Aerials. Some or most of us had some issues with the wind, rocks and lack of peddle power. Regroup at the top then into the down. Phatboy had a issue just after the slippy rocks. After a quick fix onwards we headed. Phatboy, MacGyver and Tinkerbell in close formation with Bug's then Dozer not far behind. The Cook was not too far behind. Regroup at the turn off to Greenwood and the decision was to head left on Greenwood towards the summit road. Bit different going this way over the rocks. All got though with the odd rock catching us out. Up the road then down though the shared track to the cars. Great night ride of 6.8km-7.2km :-)

Off for a beer at the Twisted Hop.

Sunday 5th June

Phatboy, Silverfox, Dozer, Tinkerbell and 2pot arrived at mine for a 9.15 departutre.  I was about to head out on my flat ride to sumner and back for a recovery ride.  They were heading up Rapaki and then left over Witch Hill, Down Castle Rock up Mt Pleasant Down Greenwood and then down Ct Thomas.  Tinkerbell pulled out early (it seems he does this everynow again...I wonder why?) I don't know much about the ride but follow the link below and you can see some of it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tm2h-jVByc&app=desktop