Riders – see day two

With a last minute unsuccessful bid to purchase some wet weather gear, Derek and I had left Warrandyte at 3.00pm, Friday. The ride up was uneventful. The horizon was dark and foreboding. Hmm. It wasn't a question of if it was going to rain, but when! Well, just out of Benalla a few splotches, quickly developing into a steady fall, then pelting down. I was fortunate enough to have a rain jacket. Derek - well I don't think he was too happy. There was one consolation (or I thought so) - a spectacular lightning display. Derek was thinking more along the lines of being fried. As discussed later, what does happen if lightning strikes a motorcycle? General consensus: we'd rather not think about it!

On the last 20 km to Tallangatta, it was evident there had been a bit of wind (not to mention rain). Several trees were blown down along the road, the sky still looking ominous. It was good to reach the pub, and be greeted by Gerry, Tim, Darryn, Ben and Rhys, who all looked quite comfy and settled (especially the "Happy Wanderer" Rhys, who had been comfortable since arriving at 3.30 pm, after travelling and exploring many back roads. Those red lines on the map must surely have been getting blurry!) Wayne arrived later that night, having kept dry as he had towed the bike up.

The route was through some twisties to Granya, avoiding the bark and leaf litter which was covering some parts of the road, to Walwa for morning tea. It was decided to change the planned route, as Darryn appeared to be getting only 11 km per litre. The new route included a couple of extra fuel stops. On to Tumbarumba via Tintaldra and Tooma for fuel and visor clean. Tumut via Rosewood was the lunch stop, then on our way to Talbingo for a quick fuel stop. Then along the Snowy Mountains Highway where we encountered some rain. Luckily the rain did not last long - about 10km. At Kiandra we turned left and headed for Cabramurra, followed by the descent and ascent of Elliots Way - no time for lack of concentration here. Some gravelly patches and occasional fallen rocks to make it more interesting, not that it needed it.

Back to Corryong for a quick top up (fuel and food), then it was a sprint for home, due to the black clouds in the distance. We all managed to make it home before the rain. The whole day was filled with spectacular roads, scenery and enjoyment. Thanks to Ben for leading another great ride.