Manawatu Classic Motorcycle Club Annual BBQ

 It was already that time of the year when the Manawatu Classic Motorcycle Club members and their partners got together for the annual BBQ. The normal venue recently has been Michael and Brenda's place but due to its unavailability a new destination was nominated. Mount Lees Reserve near Halcombe has with its homestead, bush and grounds has been a popular place for locals over many years. It has some great facilities for picnics and other gatherings and some great bush walks to wear off/earn a meal.  

Our ride began at Memorial Park and it was pleasing to see a good turnout of classic, near classic and modern machines. With John leading the ride he soon had us heading up Main Street and Napier Road and onto our final destination. Our route was a relatively familiar one that had us heading out to Ashhurst, Valley Road, Colyton, Feilding, Makino Road and then to our final destination with a stop off at Stanway Hall along the way.

It was a great run for the 'senior' bikes on the run. These bikes were mainly British with a few continental cousins. The bike that garnered plenty of attention was Dave S's Vincent. It certainly sounded wonderful on the road and hard to believe it is seventy plus years old. There were plenty of Triumphs, an occasional BSA with a Honda in there as well.

We managed to arrive just before lunch and were greeted with a wonderful meal already cooked and ready to serve. Karn, Mike and there helpers did a great job and the venue certainly provided a a picturesque backdrop. One of the local resident ducks took a liking to us and wasn't hesitant about making new friends; especially if they had food. He (or she) certainly knew where a good feed was and after we all had our fill interspersed with some great conversation it was time to head back home. 

It was here Dave S on his Vincent got his final bout of attention, but probably not for the right reason. Luckily his last kick to start the Vincent was successful, as the last kick also snapped off the kickstart! Must have been the extra strength gained from Karn's BBQ food. Luckily it wasn't to far home and I am sure it won't be to long until the Vincent can be kickstarted again.

A big thank you to the team who put this event together and it certainly bodes well for another great year for the Manawatu Classic Motorcycle Club.