Wonthaggi MK III

Leaving the northern suburbs early Sunday for the ride on this autumn morning, the sun is happy. By the time we reach Berwick, the weather has turned overcast and foggy and I’m starting to feel a little bit nippy in the leathers - I’m still resisting using the Michelin Man style wet-weather gear. The heated grips are on, but I can hardly tell with this cold. Hmmm, I’m preparing myself for a climatically-challenged day, but half an hour into the ride, the sun peeps out, the fog lifts and all is well again.

Nineteen people turn out for the ride to Wonthaggi; I think we’re all thinking the same thing - a good idea to squeeze in as many rides before winter arrives; thereafter only the crazy ones ride.

John Rousseaux did a fine job as our ride leader for the day, satisfying our desire for fast sweepers, a few Korumburran twisties, ocean views and reasonable breaks. My only complaint is directed at the boys who usually perform wheelies along the way (Misho, Ken, Dave): “What happened this time?” Does a bit of wind scare you? Lucky I mentioned it to Dave Ward who made a special effort. Thanks Dave. You know it always puts a smile on my face. But that wasn’t the only time: when a group of “The Boys” (Marty, Paul, Cliff, Dave) went speeding past me like a round of firing bullets, a big grin spread across my face, seeing how much fun they were having. Only wish I could be part of it too. Still dreaming.

We finished up at the Drouin break-up point just after 3.00pm and I’m thinking to myself how nice it will be to not get home too late as it gets cold and dark by about 5.30pm. I was just putting my helmet on and saying to Dave and Paul that we might follow them home on the Monash Freeway when I get an announcement from “I want more” Misho that we are going home the “scenic” way. There is an urgent, pleading look on his face which tells me he needs to get in a few more thrills for the day, so I obliged.

Ray, on the KTM Duke, lead the way home north via Powelltown, Healesville, Kinglake and Whittlesea. I must admit, it was fun, even though it was a bit cold and dark by the time we got home at 6.00pm with 500 km all up for the day. (No wonder I look a bit weary at work on Mondays).

Nearing home, Misho decided his well-worn Pilot Road 2 tyres need to be “finished off” properly so he preceded to do a few wheelies and many a “burn-out” while corner marking for me. More smiles for me.

I just love Sundays! Thanks to all my fellow riders for making today so enjoyable; and special thanks to Ian and Ron who shared the rear-riding.

Pina Garasi