North Harbour Ulysses Newsletter.
Edition 24
July 2016

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Edition 24

Hi All

With the shortest day now behind us. We are all looking forward to those sunny balmy riding days right?? I know I am. Especially after being told that I'm not allowed to ride for the past few weeks due to a broken hand/wrist.

To enable Niki and the rides committee to put together some fantastic rides for us all. We all need to do our bit in leading rides. Without people to lead we have no ride and currently Niki is struggling to get enough of us to lead rides. So how about leading a ride on your favourite road or to that destination that you've always wanted to go and see. Email Niki Morrison and let her know some dates and where you would like to ride to. She would only be too happy to hear from you.

Are you a member of our Facebook page and do you visit our website? These are the best places to get the most up to date information on our Club and activities. Visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/north.harbour.ulysses/ and join or visit www.ulyssesnorthharbour.org.nz/ . You can also see what fellow members get up to on their rides and take part in Peter Webb's weekly "Caption This" competition.

Do you run your own business? Make sure your fellow club members know what you do and get some free advertising in this newsletter. Send me an ad and I'll include it every month.

Also check out my tips and tricks section that I'll be running every month. Email me if you have something that you think our members should know about.

Send me your stories, pictures, comments and feedback to me by clicking this link NH Editor

Enjoy our July newsletter and safe riding.

Craig McEwan #9243

Ulysses North Harbour Facebook Page

Ulysses North Harbour Website

Dale & I have just got back from the Rotorua Branch Okataina Rally, unfortunately the turnout was not as good as usual, there were only 36 people including 3 North Harbour members and 3 Auckland members, however we had a great time and as always there was plenty to eat. It seems the club is going through a change where the older members are not going to as many rallies or are giving up on tenting (Dale & I) and the younger members don’t/won’t tent or share a bunk room, this is a shame as catching up with friends and members from other branches is fun and what the club is all about.
          I loved the idea of the Queen’s Birthday Weekend breakfast and ride starting at the Go Deli Café which was attended about 20 members and partners with some of them going on a ride afterwards, I hope this becomes a regular feature especially over the winter months. If your partner doesn’t ride just come along for breakfast it’s another way to meet people & socialise.
Sunday July 10^th is our Mid-Winter Social, GET YOUR ENTRIES IN NOW, if you turn up with-out doing an entry you will have to purchase your food from the bar. Don’t miss out, registration forms are on our website or just send me an email waynedale@xtra.co.nz or phone me 027 289 1018

The Chieftain (ULYCZ) is packed in the container with 10 other bikes and on the way to Vancouver arriving early July, after telling us we had to take the windscreens off so they could pack the bikes two high they managed to get them all on the deck, bugger. We pick them up on the 14^th July for our big adventure through Alaska, Canada (British Columbia, Yukon Territory, Alberta and Vancouver Island ) into the USA via Montana then thru Wyoming, South Dakota (Sturgis, Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse monuments) Utah (Bonneville Speed Week), Nevada, Califonia, Oregan, Washington and then cross over to Vancouver Island. 12,000 K’s in 6 weeks with only 6 non riding days, the biggest day will be 580-600K’s. Trying to pack for 6 weeks with temperatures ranging from 3 to 40 degrees is a challenge but we are all packed and ready to go, getting excited even. I’m sure Dale & I will have sore butts and will be glad to get home to our own bed but some-one has to do the hard yards. August Club Night will be shared between the committee members, there will be no Quartermaster sales
Food for thought: Do we want to look into the possibility of holding the National AGM & Rally in the future, the first date available is 2023. I know it sounds a long way off but we would need to get a sub-committee together with a Chairperson/Coordinator then find a venue and book it early to get a good price.   Your thoughts please to waynedale@xtra.co.nz
Remember!! We must support our sponsors so they can support us.
DATES TO REMEMBER
Thursday 7^th July, Club Night at PUPUKE GOLF CLUB. 5.30pm onwards.
Sunday 10^th July. Mid Winter BBQ, Africa Bar. 2.00-6.00pm, Every-one welcome
Wednesday 20^th July, Social Dinner, Africa Bar, 1 William Pickering Drive.
Thursday August 4^th, Club Night at PUPUKE GOLF CLUB 5.30 onwards.
Remembrance Weekend 13^th, 14^th August. Book own accommodation,
Far North Rally 7^th, 8^th, 9^thOctober, Marsden Point,
Ronald McDonald Run 13^th November, keep this date free, more details later

Wayne Painter #1756NZ L/M,
Branch President, North Harbour Branch
Ulysses Club (NZ) Inc

Your North Harbour Executive for 2016

Committee Members

Andy Kelly is our Welfare Officer so if you know of a Branch Member who is sick, injured or in need of help from the Branch please contact Andy
on 021 144 9734 or Email Andy

Non Committee Positions

Click here for Printer Friendly Runs Sheet

Members Rides
We all have a passion for bikes and we are all interested in what you ride or have stored in your garage. Send me a pic of your bike and a blurb about it and I'll put one members bike in the newsletter each month. Chosen randomly by yours truly of course. Here's one of my bikes to kick it off. At the time the photo was taken overlooking the Hokianga Harbour it had somewhere between 400 and 500Kms on the clock.

2016 Triumph Thunderbird LT 1700

Email you pictures and info to the Editor.

The Mid Winter BBQ is only just over a week away. If you haven't already registered. Please do so now by printing the form below and sending it to Wayne.

Click Here For a Printable Form for the Mid Winter Social BBQ

Rider Training (or How did this happen to me?)

By Barry Holland

Hi Everyone,.......not a subject that appeals to all but please don't flick on to the next article in the newsletter without giving me a chance to explain a bit more!. I'm sure you can find the time to read to the end..

......... Please!!

As a new member of the Ulysses North Harbour Branch Committee I have been asked by our Branch President, Wayne Painter, to undertake the responsibility of Rider Training for the Branch. At this point some members will flick to the next article.........please don't! Just read through and see if anything here could be of benefit to you or maybe to someone you know!

Just by way of a brief introduction, a little about my history with the Ulysses Club and motorcycling. I was a teenage rider through to my early twenties having started on a Honda Benly 125 twin, then to an AJS 350cc single (great bike), a new Triumph Bonneville in 1974 before succumbing to a Honda CB750 K2 in 1976. I gave up bikes for the same reasons many of us did (wife, kids, mortgage.......... no money!)

I then had a short break from motorcycling, just 31 years without a bike, before moving to this wonderful country and realising the NZ roads are meant to be ridden! (well, most of them!) Within 9 months of arriving I had purchased a

Honda VT500E (wish I'd kept it!) before moving on to (with my wife's absolute blessing) a new Honda Hornet CB600F, which I still ride. In addition, I had a Honda ST1300 for 2 years and now also own a 2014 Triumph Trophy 1215 SE (which my wife, Gill prefers to the ST (phew!))

As I got back into riding and the world of bikes again, I soon realized that technology on motorbikes, particularly tyres and suspension had changed beyond all recognition from what I had encountered in the late seventies. And with that realization came an obvious need for me to "re-learn"....or maybe thinking about it now......"learn" to ride modern motorcycles properly and embrace all that modern motorcycling techniques and riding skill entails.

I undertook a half day training session, 1-2-1 with Philip McDaid, the proprietor of "Riderskills", a motorcycle training company based in Auckland, specializing in learner, advanced and returning rider training. It was worth every cent to have a person with such knowledge and skill as Philip, to spend 4 hours reviewing my ability level and to set me right on the then long list of things which needed to improve with my riding. I would recommend Riderskills to anyone, at any level of riding, as a way of getting correct advice, delivered in an easy to understand, non- judgmental way, tailored to your specific needs. Philip is a member of Ulysses Auckland Branch and can be contacted through the Riderskills website - Give him a call to discuss your needs!.

It was just after buying the Hornet that I went along to Auckland Ulysses Club Night, following a short Saturday afternoon ride led by John Dykes. I was looking for like minded people, to ride with, chat to and maybe, I thought, find out from these, no doubt, knowledgeable folks, all about modern day motorcycles and motorcycling. (Can't be right all the time!) I later transferred to North Harbour Branch, being an Albany resident.......Yippee no more traffic jams, queuing on the Bridge or lane splitting to get to Club night on time!

It was on that March 2011 Club Night, when I met Cat Shepherd (it was owning the same bike that prompted the start of conversation, in true Ulysses style) and I didn't know then that over the next 5 years we would become the firm friends we now are (or were until she reads this?), nor that we would travel the journey of improving our riding together, as we have.

Cat is someone I have no hesitation in being around on the road. Indeed we made up part of a group that rode the South Island for three weeks awhile back (but no motorbike stories, of which there are plenty because what happens on tour...stays on tour!) (Don't ask her about Barbara and Sally.........I said don't ask!).
It was over the course of this friendship I was to discover that to some in the Club, Cat is affectionately known as "Trouble"......but that too is the subject of other stories!!!

Through Cat (and others) I met and got involved with John Heebink, who at the time and until fairly recently was leading 'Mentor' rides for those riders who felt they needed a bit of help, and a few hints and tips on riding. (The mentoring programme is no longer supported by Ulysses as a Club due partly to bureaucracy, partly political correctness and partly legal risk issues).....but for those of you familiar with the expression 'there is more than one way to skin a cat'.... read on! (Oh, just to avoid any misunderstanding that is skin a cat with a small 'c'........you had me worried then, I was wondering where your thoughts were going!)

I think I've digressed so getting back on track.......I started riding with John on mentor rides and any that he led and continued to realise that I was in need of 'a lot' of hints and tips on riding and plenty of practice. In addition to the help and advice John was happy to provide whenever asked, I was persuaded (and never regret) to go along to the one day training session held by BRONZ (Bikers Rights of New Zealand) at Whenuapai Airbase, a truly enlightening course (which sadly ceased last year, after 17 years , thanks Finn and Lars), a whole day on a perfect surface (the airport runway apron), where we were able to practice all aspects of riding, emergency breaking, corner lines, slow riding, all with the knowledge there were no other vehicles representing any danger and a plethora of advice and tips available during the day. I came away from the course with a renewed confidence (but not over confidence, a trainees potential nemesis!).

So good was the course that I went back and re took it with a pillion (recommended by BRONZ as a bike's characteristics change so much with a precious load on the rear seat and did it again when I purchased the ST. (Cat took it too and John was one of the course helpers, so was able to help outside of the course afterwards.) Incidentally, on the last occasion two new lady riders turned up with two 250cc bikes on a trailer, having driven from Kerikeri, just to take the course. They had both been riding about two months and to be honest, it showed but by the end of the day they had no more wobbles, were picking the right corner lines, riding around cones and emergency breaking with ease, so much had she learned and gained in confidence that one of them was contemplating riding her bike back to Kerikeri!

Another sort of digression I know but I'm just relaying some of the things I have encountered during the courses I have attended and help I have received. Many of you may well be thinking right now, what has this got to do with me? I know how to ride! I don't need any training.....Well please keep reading......who knows what you might discover?

I developed a hunger for riding knowledge and took to reading various books on the subject. ( yes I do know and subscribe to the theory that you can't learn to ride a motorbike from a book!) My attitude was changing all the time, from first thinking that I knew how to ride and that any help or advice I needed or wanted I could maybe pick up on the way from any seasoned rider whose path I may cross, to one of incredulity at the amount of information, technology, technique, skill and practice required in order to ride well or perhaps much more importantly, to ride safely.

One superb book (which also has an excellent accompanying DVD) is "Twist of the Wrist II" by Keith Code, which although is based on the California Superbike School, analyses everything, from how physics make the bike stable to throttle use in the wet, fast lines in corners and how to try to train your survival reactions. What the book does very well, in my opinion, is to break everything down, to a level that allows me to equate with the issues it identifies and then starts to give me ideas and methods of overcoming 'problems' and then how to reproduce good riding skills. Whilst based on track riding Code manages to successfully equate all the discussed techniques to everyday riding and I have honestly, specifically tried some of these techniques from time to time, on a quiet piece of road, on my own and have been amazed and inspired to find that the advice really works. Many of you will be familiar with the book but for those who have not read it and have an open mind to the possibility it might teach them something or have something to offer them, you won't be disappointed.

One of the important things discussed in the book and in many others, is that it's all about an attitude of mind, to be open to the suggestion that maybe our riding isn't as good as it could be, or isn't as safe as it should be and by safety it means safety of others as well as preserving our own skin!

It wasn't a sudden decision but more something that 'crept up on me' that I decided to set myself a goal......... to be as good a rider as I can be, as my skill and ability allow, how my ability to learn allows .....no competition with others, no timescale, no urgency, just to try to evolve into a good rider, a safe rider.........and at the same time have a great time doing it, with others who may also be interested! To be safe to myself, to others, to embrace the 'grow old' part of our Club motto and sometimes the 'disgracefully' bit too but my ultimate aim, to be as good a rider as I can be.

So I embarked on my journey which has got me to where I am today.(where is that I hear you ask? - maybe if there's room, I'll sum that up nearer the end). I haven't arrived at the destination, I am still (and will always be) on the journey of motorcycling enlightenment, irrespective of where that enlightening knowledge comes from.

Very recently, I undertook the ACC Ride Forever Silver and Gold riding courses (there is also a Bronze course), all currently available from ProRider Motorcycle Training and Coaching (run by Karel and Howard, two Ulyssians also from the Auckland Branch) at vastly subsidized rates of only $50 per person, per course; a reduction of about 80% of the true cost of providing the training. Let's be honest....... It's ACC's attempt to reduce its costs.....but they are going about it by reducing the risks to us at the same time and achieving what all businesses strive to achieve (saving money!). What are the courses about and why should anyone of us bother to go on them, I hear you ask? (Okay, I imagined that but indulge me for the sake of this article!)

My experience of riding with many Ulyssians tends to make me think that most (but by no means all) riders in our Club would be more suited to the Silver course as a first step, rather than the Bronze (although, as I mentioned and to be fair, I haven't experienced the Bronze), purely because the Silver assumes a minimum level of riding skill and knowledge......but still touches on the basics as a reminder! And a level of competency which any full motorcycle licence holder should have.

What can one expect from these courses, I hear you say (I didn't but keep playing along, you'll get the hang of it!). The day is split up into short classroom based reminders of how and why motorcycles do what they do, why riders do what they do and where the riders can improve on what they do. You will obviously appreciate that the courses are about SAFE riding, safety of you the rider and the safety of all other road users be they pillions, other motorcyclists, friends or strangers. A timely reminder of how dangerous motorcycling can be but equally, if not more so, how rewarding it truly is, especially when you 'nail' a particular riding skill!

Following the classroom time exploring the theory, the rest of the day is spent 'on the hoof'. Basic one way communication devices allow the instructor to talk to the participants (who cannot respond) so that instructions can be given and the group kept together. Throughout the day little hints and tips are forthcoming

A short session on slow riding with emphasis on slow speed stability, evasive maneuvers and clutch control took place in a local car park and provided a reminder that unless practiced regularly, slow riding skills (well, all skills really!) are soon forgotten!

Being reminded about the effects of counter-steering (something else Keith Code explains very well in his book!), positive throttle, the dangers of metal drain covers, all things that can easily be overlooked, yet may not be uppermost in our minds when we ride.

Our instructor, who I shall call Paul (his name was Paul so why would I call him anything else?) led for part of the time and then put attendees out front to observe and later comment on the displayed riding. He had a very warm manner in how he addressed any issues he spotted and his way of highlighting them was very non judgmental. He was easy to approach and ready to answer any questions. His little hints and tips added together to make a very interesting and informative day.

Incidentally, on the day of the course, there was rain around and some heavy showers forecast. Paul advised that 6 attendees were due on the course but only myself and two others turned up, the others declining because of the rain! I'm pleased to say that all three of us on the course are Ulysses North Harbour members! I'm not pleased to say that we had a lot of rain that day, some of it heavy but a chance to practice riding in the rain, something I'm not great at so practice surely helps?

A common theme with the courses is the practice of slow riding skills and techniques, which is something that we can always do with improving and regularly practice, to maintain a reasonable competent, safe skill level. The commuters amongst is, in particular will realize how important slow riding ability is? Our newer members are probably not aware however, that up until 2015 there was a Ulysses Drill Team , organised, run and led by Trevor Birchill of the Auckland Branch. This was a team of members , all volunteers, of course, who wanted to give slow, synchronized riding a go, with a view to performing several displays throughout the year at Ulysses and charity events. I was introduced to the Drill team by John Heebink ( boy, don't I have a lot to blame, I mean, thank him for?).

I spent two years in the Drill Team, which required a minimum of two hours practice each and every week.....for six months! A huge commitment (as the team can't practice unless ALL members are present!) but having taken part in several demonstrations and displays, I have to be totally honest and say that my slow riding skills have exceeded all my expectations, from when I went to my first practice and being unable to carry out the maneuvers properly and thinking to myself that I never would! To a situation where I was put as lead rider alongside John for the two years and included in individual demonstrations of skill within the Drill Team, at our public displays. (You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kySQYua5L8).

For me a truly remarkable achievement as I just didn't think I could do it but didn't know I could until I tried. I am very grateful to Trevor for the experience and the skill level, which although gets rusty and needs practice, the fundamentals will always be with me. (I hope!) (NB:- Sorry Paul, I didn't admit to being a former member of the Ulysses Drill Team on the ACC Gold Course, when you saw how 'easy' it appeared to me around the slalom of half tennis balls - the distance apart you placed them was greater than we used to do in the Drill Team!...hee....hee! But I always appreciate (and always need)the practice!)
It is a shame that the drill team is no longer in existence as it was very rewarding and a fantastic acceleration of slow riding skills for its members. However, something which I hope is, and should be, of interest to you dear reader is "Twists & Turns". This was originally run by Trevor on a Saturday, once a month, where we went along and practiced all the slow riding skills needed by modern motorcyclists (it was from there I was recruited for the Drill Team) in a safe environment. As Trevor moved away from Auckland, T & T's was taken over by Andy Leader (who kindly gave up his time and came and spoke at the last North Harbour Club Night) and a new venue has now been acquired at Kelston Girls School, Archibald Road, out West.

On the first Saturday of each month (see website and Facebook for variations), Andy will be available and have set up, in the tarmac areas around the school, various exercises and obstacles that we can all try to negotiate in a safe and fun environment. It's better to make mistakes (if any) at T & T's than to be out at the mercy of the travelling public. Come along from 2pm to 4pm once a month and give it a try. You'll make progress in leaps and bounds under Andy's guidance and we have a lot of laughs doing it! Last month we practiced heavy braking and it's amazing how quickly you forget how hard we can brake under normal and emergency situations; something I now practice every day in the hope that I am always 'ready' for an emergency stop. Practicing slow riding techniques keeps those who can do it, skilful whilst giving those who maybe struggle, a chance to learn, improve and enjoy. You've got to admit that when you acquire a new riding skill or achieve something you didn't think you could do, it does give you a buzz?

I suppose the crux of this article and I suppose the crux of motorcycle training is that you don't know what you don't know and how can you possibly remember something you have forgotten? Training conjures up negative thoughts in some members minds and makes them resentful that anyone should consider they don't know how to ride after all these years but that isn't what training is about. That's not the point! It's to enable you to familiarise yourself with your former skills, to polish them close to what they were like, as we all 'go off the boil' with age. To enhance your riding skill, ability and safety, so that we may

all benefit. I would urge both those that have been riding 50 years or more as well as those who have been riding only six months and everyone in between to avail themselves to some form of 'training' or 'refresher training' to improve their skill, make them safer so they are going to be amongst us longer and enjoy the experience with laughs along the way!

Now back to skinning that cat I mentioned earlier! North Harbour Branch is fortunate enough to have not one but two Institute of Advanced Motorists, Advance Motorcycle Division, Qualified Observers (not allowed to call them instructors due partly to bureaucracy, partly political correctness and partly legal risk issues) who for the price of a cup of coffee would be prepared to ride out with any one of you, 1-2-1 say for 20 minutes, half an hour or maybe an hour, to 'observe' your riding ability and provide in a mature, friendly and helpful way, useful hints and tips to improve all aspects of riding, or confirm that your riding is of a standard where minimal help and advice is needed. All confidential so no one need ever know, if that's how you prefer it.

I would like to see a sea change within Ulysses North Harbour from a stance which tends to be amongst some that we know how to ride and do not need anyone telling us how to do it, to one of a possibility that we could improve our skills, we could be safer riders, we could benefit from some useful hints and tips, that we may be able to become even better riders and thereby enjoy motorcycling even more. To acknowledge that our skills get rusty, that we don't know what we don't know and of course, can't remember what we used to know, if we have forgotten it! Not just for our own safety but for the safety of the entire Ulysses family which extends way beyond just the guy or girl you are riding with on a specific day. We all owe it to each and every one of us we ride with to try to be as good as we can be but particularly as safe as possible so that our enjoyment and involvement can evolve into an even safer, more enjoyable club but having just as much fun (or more so) than we've always had.

If you would like more information about the training that is available or that you might like to undertake, please contact me. I'll do my best to help you get as much or as little help you need. Your committee and runs committee will continue to look at all aspects of motorcycling which will enhance your motorcycling enjoyment and club membership , even to looking into track days.

All information can be found on the website, in the newsletter or by contacting me or any of the committee members......................... Stay upright and enjoy your motorcycling!

I've gone on way too long so rounding up where I am on my journey of motorcycle riding enlightenment will have to go....but always happy to talk to anyone who may be interested in where my journey has got me to date!

My thanks to Cat Shepherd who was not asked for permission to be mentioned in this article. Any reference to ACC, RideForever, Bronz, Riderskills, IAM or Prorider is purely intentional. Barry Holland, a former member of the human race, now resides in a darkened room with his pet shoelace, "Tye". No penguins were harmed in the making of this article. Please give generously.

Barry Holland #8331
021 753301

Andrew Leader runs the "Twists and Turns" low speed manoeuvring sessions that Ulysses set up some years ago.

They are run on the first Saturday of the month at Kelston Girls High School, 1 Archibald Rd, Kelston, West Auckland 0602.

All North Harbour members are invited to attend.

It’s a great opportunity to practice all those key low speed skills in a safe, supportive environment. For instance when did you last practice an emergency stop? Plenty of skilled riders attend to help with technique and encouragement and they are not judgemental. Better to practice where there are people to help pick the bike up if you lay it down!
The school entrance is first on your right as you turn off Great North Road into Archibald Road:

Cheers

Andy #4460

Please support North Harbour Branch sponsors.

Come in to Cyclespot Italia and check out the new Ducati “Diavel X”

RR $31990.00 plus ORC for the standard model
RR $37,990.00 plus ORC for S model

Contact Richard 021 337533 or sales@ducati.co.nz

46 Barrys Point Road Takapuna Auckland – 09 4861136

Cyclespot Group, Major North Harbour Branch Sponsor
Grant donates vouchers monthly for Social Evenings and
advertises in the monthly newsletter.
Pop into Cyclespot and check out the range of bikes & accessories.

E : sales@spectrum-motorcycles.co.nz

North Harbour Ulysses Facebook Page

North Harbour Ulysses Website

Raffles

If it is your birthday this month, don't forget to take a bottle of wine for the raffles on club night.
If you have any unwanted gifts, donate them for the raffle prizes.

Subscriber Details

At the bottom of this newsletter is a link so you can update your subscriber details. There is also a button if you really want to cancel your subscription.

Wine Bottle Caps

Save your bottle tops from your wine bottles and bring along to each monthly meeting. These get passed onto Lions Club who collect as a fundraiser for Child Dialysis. Get your local restaurant on board and have them keep the bottle tops for you.

Reviews and Photo Gallery

Saddlebags can never hold everything you want, but they CAN hold everything you need!!

Our Club Insurances have been renewed again for the coming year with AON.

Please note, our insurer has made particular mention that we communicate to all members that in the event of a incident that may require activating our insurance policy that the insured party (that's all of us as members of the Club) does NOT admit liability for, or settle any claim or incur any defence costs without the prior written consent of the insurer (that's AON). In other words admit nothing and immediately advise Natcom of the situation.

This information is posted on the links page of the Club website.

Link to website is http://www.ulysses.org.nz/links/

Surgery
A mechanic was removing a cylinder-head from the motor of a Harley motorcycle when he spotted a well-known cardiologist in his shop.
The cardiologist was there waiting for the service manager to come take a look at his bike when the mechanic shouted across the garage "Hey Doc, want to take a look at this?"

The cardiologist, a bit surprised, walked over to where the mechanic was working on the motorcycle. The mechanic straightened up, wiped his ha nds on a rag and said, "So Doc, look at this engine. I open its heart, take the valves out, repair any damage, and then put them back in, and when I finish, it works just like new.

So how come I make $39,675 a year, a pretty small salary and you get the really big bucks ($1,695,759) when you and I are doing basically the same work?"

The cardiologist paused, smiled and leaned over, then whispered to the mechanic................................
"Try doing it with the engine running."

Cruising with Charlie Truell
Tuesdays Ride

Midweek Wednesday Rides and now Tuesday (check out NH Ulysses facebook page for details.)

Tuesday 21 June
Six people on today's ride. Sig Falkenhaug led us across the Hunua Ranges to Waitawa Regional Park,

where we took a walk out to the end of the jetty. I then took over as RIC and took the group to Waiti Bay, a very pretty little sandy beach. We then went to Otere Point which isn't much further around the coast but is completely different, very stony. Then on to Kaiaua for lunch. The pub there doesn't serve lunch on Tuesdays, but the fish and chip shop is good. We then went about six km back north to see the wreck of HMNZS Hinau.

Finally Peter Hodd took us back to Auckland via Kawakawa Bay. A good day out and I think everyone found at least one road they hadn't been on before.

Raffle Prizes and Tattle-Tales Wanted

“Sheriff wants unwanted gifts and wine for birthdays and worthy events in your LIVES “
And please email ‘SHERIFF, I HAVE A TALE’ to Pete.

Motorcycle Tips and Tricks

YOU DON'T have to have the mechanical know-how of a MotoGP technician to perform simple home-servicing tasks; some decent tools and a little common sense are all you need to keep your bike in tip-top shape.

Ideally, get hold of a workshop manual for your machine for a better understanding of how each task should be carried out. Most will give pictures detailing each part of the process; a good manual will also list the tools you'll need to complete the job.

Like a chef's knives, using quality tools are half the battle to a successful job, so avoid using the underseat toolkit if you can.

Obviously, if you're not 100 per cent comfortable working on your own bike then ask a knowledgeable mate to watch over you.

Chain and sprockets, Shaft Drives, Belts

Tip: Lube your chain after each ride when the chain is warm so the oil can easily soak in and get into all the tight spots of the chain.

These items that are essential to the well being of your bike. If not well maintained you will end up spending a lot of money all too often to have them replaced.

Chains: Lubricate them often with a commercial chain spray everytime you fill up for gas. (or at the end of each ride). Spray liberally on the side of the chain that comes into contact with the sprockets. Ensure that you spray both left and the right hand side of the chain. Position a piece of newspaper so that you do not dirty the rear wheel rim as you spray. Use a second piece on the floor to catch any drips. Wait five or ten minutes before you wipe all excess oil off the chain. This whole process is a lot easier if your motorbike has a centre stand. Spinning the back tyre will ensure that the rest of the chain is lubricated when it comes into contact with the sprocket and pinion. This is a task that is best done when you return home from your ride while the chain is still warm.

Bike chains are never taut but must be able to sag between 3/4" to 1 1/4" at the mid-point between the two sprockets. The sag is used when the bike suspension moves up and down over uneven surfaces.

Shaft Drives: Even though shaft drives on motorcycles require little maintenance we would suggest replacing the shaft drive oil every time you change the oil on your motorcycle. This will lead to a very long and happy life for the shaft drive.

Belt Drives: As with shaft drives, belts do not require a lot of maintenance. Everytime you change the oil on your motorcycle check the belt tension and adjust if necessary. Make sure your belt is always clean.

Talk to Barry Holland regarding rider training or visit the Prorider website for course and booking information.

Become part of the Pro Rider Community
Visit your local motorcycle/scooter shop and ask about a Ride Forever voucher from Pro Rider, get one for a friend. Book via the Pro Rider website and have your say on our Facebook page!
The Pro Rider Riders Club is coming soon. Keep an eye on Facebook!

Check out ProRider Website for all available courses.
www.prorider.co.nz

Click Here for Printer Friendly Runs List

Ulysses North Harbour
Runs and Event Calendar
email: Runs Coordinator

Rider in Charge (RIC) would appreciate all participants of rides to be at the departure point 10 minutes early with a full tank of gas. If the weather looks suspect then please phone the RIC or check out North Harbour Ulysses facebook page to see if the ride is postponed or cancelled.

The Rider in Charge will be organizing the day. Contact them for details. All riders participating in a Ulysses Ride are expected to hold a current motorcycle license, wear suitable clothing and to have a registered and warranted road-worthy bike.

The organizers and/or the Ulysses Club are not responsible for participants safety and all participants participate at their own risk.

All participants are aware that they are traveling on open public roads and are responsible for their own safety and compliance with all Rules and Laws.

Please check your runs list as some rides or destinations may have changed from initial calendar entry.

Club Night Meeting and Social Evening
Held at Pupuke Golf Club
231 East Coast Road (opp Sunnynook Rd) Campbells Bay
1st Thursday of the Month.
Meals available from 5.30pm and meeting starts at 7.30pm

Our next social dinner is on 20 July - 5:30pm onwards. Please email Andy Kelly by Monday 18 if you intend to attend.
Africa is located at 1b William Pickering Drive, Albany

July
3rd
Sunday

Arrive and Decide
Decide your own destination. Meet at the old North Shore Cosi ready to leave at 10am. Choose a RIC, a TEC and a destination and head off.

Sunday 17
July

Mid Winter Picnic Lunch Waitangi Waterfall – A series of three waterfalls, Waitangi Falls, Omeru Falls and Waitangi Stream Cascade, is located in Omeru Pa Senic Reserve on the east side of the Kaipara Coast Highway between Kaukapakapa and Makarau River. A great BBQ area and multiple swimming spots make these waterfalls and scenic reserve a very popular place among the locals.

Caffeine & Classics at Smales Farm

Sunday July
31st

Short ride to Smales Farm to check out the Classic Cars and Hot Rods. And of course get some caffeine into us.
Meet at Smales Farm

Midweek Wednesday Rides and now Tuesday (check out NH Ulysses facebook page for details.)
Are you free to ride Midweek?
Why not join fellow Ulyssians on Wednesday's
Departs NS Cossie Club at 10.30am
Destination decided on the day.
These rides are proving very popular.

Highlight your calendar with these upcoming rides or events.

Runs & Rallies

July

2 Twists and Turns – 2 to 4pm Kelston Girls High School, 1 Archibald Rd, Kelston It’s a great opportunity to practice all those key low speed skills in a safe, supportive environment. For instance when did you last practice an emergency stop? Plenty of skilled riders attend to help with technique and encouragement and they are not judgemental. Better to practice where there are people to help pick the bike up if you lay it down!

3 Decide your own destination. Meet at the old North Shore Cosi at 10am. Choose a RIC, a TEC and a destination and head off.

7 Monthly Club Night @ Pupuke Golf Club
Our monthly club meeting and social evening at Pupuke Golf Club,
231 East Coast Rd, Campbells Bay. Bar opens at 5:30pm and meals
are available.
MUST RSVP for meals at least two days before to Wayne Painter.
Time: 05:30 PM - 09:00 PM

10 Mid Winter BBQ - Africa Bar 1 William Pickering Drive, Albany.
Everyone Welcome - Please register using the form above.

17 Mid Winter Picnic Lunch - Waitangi Waterfall

20 Social Dinner - 5:30pm onwards. Please email Andy Kelly
by Monday 18 if you intend to attend. Africa Bar is located at 1b William Pickering Drive, Albany

31 Caffeine and Classics - Taking place at Smales Farm on Auckland's North shore from 10am. Meet there and decide if a run is imminent.

NOTE: Ulysses’ events in BOLD
For more details of each event see ad at end of The Ulyssian, or Ulysses website – www.ulysses.org.nz or, contact local Coordinator or, use Google.

Need that badge sewn on, then call in on Merine.
Phone 021 708677

ULYSSES 2016
INSURANCE SCHEME

FROM 1 MARCH 2016

AON has a New Policy Wording with a New Underwriter:

In collaboration with NZI, Aon has a new improved policy wording for Motorcycles. This Prestige Motorcycle Policy gives you the best of the best in cover for all types of On-Road Motorcycles including 3 wheelers, Off-Road Motorcycles including Quad Bikes, Competition Motorcycles (not covered whilst racing), Motorcycle Collections and Classic/Vintage Motorcycles. A new policy wording will be sent out shortly.

Some of the BENEFITS:

New replacement Motorcycle if a total loss occurs within 12 months of the insured motorcycle being first registered as a new Motorcycle up to 20,000km – this increases to 24 months and 30,000km for Ulysses Members.

Windscreen/shield, headlights or tail lights covered – Nil excess

Roadside Assistance is now provided on comprehensively covered motorcycles by
FIRST ASSISTANCE – 0800 120 102

AUTOMATIC RIDING APPAREL cover - $5,000 (indemnity value) any one claim per year.

Option to have REPLACEMENT RIDING APPAREL cover - $5,000 (REPLACEMENT value) any one claim per year. Premium for Ulysses Members $50 plus GST. (Normally $75+GST)

DISCOUNTS DISCOUNTS DISCOUNTS – Age Discounts, Multiple Bike Discount (conditions apply), Loyalty Discounts, Trike Discounts, Named Rider Discounts and the Restricted Usage Discount – this is now based on riding less than 7,500km per year, per bike! (was 5,000km)

LOWER EXCESSES – The standard policy excess is now $250 (plus underage excesses applying), $500 theft excess and on approved track days a $750 excess only will apply.

RIDE FOREVER If you complete a Ride Forever training course, provide us with your certificate and we will apply a NIL excess for one claim within 12 months of completing this course.

Call us on 0800 65 62 64 and ask for Leonie, Annaliese or Brandon if you have any queries.

ASURE Accommodation Group www.asurestay.com
Welcome to ASURE Accommodation Group – a nationwide group of motels, motor inns, motor lodges and apartments strategically placed throughout New Zealand, offering you quality, affordable accommodation.

A 10% discount is available to all Ulysses Club Members for bookings made online on www.asurestay.com using the promo code Ulysses
In addition, all members are eligible to receive our ASURE Loyalty Programme – stay at three or more ASURE properties and receive $100 off your tenth night stay.

Completed loyalty cards must be redeemed direct with the ASURE property and cannot be redeemed online.
Terms & Conditions: Discount available on room only, excludes public holidays and special events and cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion.

You will need to enter your Ulysses Club membership card number to complete your booking – see screenshots below, and you will need your card when you arrive at the accommodation.

RATES QUOTED FOR:
Ulysses

A discount of 10% off the best available fare applies for travel dates
18 January through to 19 December 2016

Booking conditions and instructions for members are:

Each reservation must be made direct with Interislander online at www.interislander.co.nz

Also check out our Premium Plus onboard lounge upgrades for total comfort at www.interislander.co.nz/Premium-Plus.aspx for 18yrs plus

Simply insert the Promo code “XULY1”on the “Payment details” page then click on “enter” and this will apply the discount.

Membership card is required at the terminal on check in. No membership card and retail fares will be charged.

Space is subject to availability at the time of the booking request.

The normal conditions of the above fare type apply - e.g. Easy Change is 100% refundable if cancelled.

Bookings made through our call centre are at regular rates.

Never try to race an old geezer, he may have one more gear than you!

Members Free Ads

Space here for Members advert. Please include Your name and membership number.

Paul #8047 & Niki Morrison #8052

Paul Gallagher # 3266

Clive Hawthorne #8617

Dennis Linton

Steve Brackenridge New Member

Ben Becker

Any views or opinions presented in this newsletter are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the North Harbour Ulysses Branch Committee.

Please add editor's email address to your contacts to avoid your newsletter ending up in spam.

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July

ULYSSES 2016 INSURANCE SCHEME

ULYSSES 2016
INSURANCE SCHEME