Ducati Monster Forum

Damn cold weather down here means I haven't had a serious bike fix for ages.
I got out my 2008 Turismo videos to get me by but that just made me wanna ride more. Reliving the memories of those warm days on twisty roads. They seem so far away.

Anywhoo, who is planning on making the trip to Tassie next year? I can't promise warm weather but the twisty roads are always here. [moto]

maybe, but see how im going. i dont think it would be for turismo, but it will be close to that time depends when it is.

It's highly likely that I'll see you there, Techno.  ;D

G, the fact that you will be there goes without saying. [thumbsup]

I may be there  [roll]

Turismo is 7-11 Feb in Tassie

you could circumnavigate the place twice in that time!

cool!!!

spider we have trees that take a day too walk around before we cut them down ;D

so its before the superbikes

Yeah it's before, weeks before going by this years dates of this year 27th Feb - 1st March

And just for the people who want a link to the Tourismo website 2010 (http://online.saneevent.com.au/ducatiturismo2010/)

so is any one going  :-\

Yeh I'm already booked  [thumbsup]

Booked.  [thumbsup] [moto]

Booked.  ;D

I'll be there, I mean, here ;D

Just bought a house too, so BBQ at my place [beer]

Roger that!  ;D

How many will the floor sleep?
I bags a bed if there is one spare.

What floor are we sleeping on and when?

Just worked out that with my shifts I don't have to back at work for a week after Turismo so I can stay and play a bit longer. So maybe I can do 4 laps.  ;D

does that price include accomadation

I don't know what price you are talking about but the answer will be NO!

the price for the tourismo

There's heaps of floor space Matty, if anyone wants to roll out a swag or a mat they're welcome.
Looks like you've got dibbs on the first bed, there will probably be a spare couch too.

I'll move the car out so all the bikes can share downstairs with the Thylacine :D

if your not after flash sleeping but clean we have a double and three single beds and can get more mattresses in a bungerlow with shower and toilet you northers a welcome to use 

I'm in. ;D

This time I'll only need 4 days off work and can stay at home on the last night.

Bazz, booking accommodation is individual so its not included in the price.

Just a tip. Launceston accom should be OK. The other two nights are Devonport and St Helens. Neither has a lot of accomm so get in early.

Hey Meanie, congrats on the house. Where is it?

i wont be in nearly 400 hundred bucks to ride on the roads i ride all the time ill just harras all the riders  [evil]

Bugger

A mate and our wives have planned  atrip round the isle next March.  Will miss Turismo by 4 weeks  :(

Spoke to the accommodation booking people today.  Accommodation will be at a premium due to time of year and number of us.

So we need to book early.

Soooo.....  who lives where and who want's to put us up? ?? ?   :o  Just so we can get organised with hotels and things.

I will be staying in Hobart at least until the weekend if anyone's offering  [roll]  Can't come to Hobart and not do the markets.  I can bring my own sleeping bag and thermarest mattress.

im in st helens heather

My new place is in Blackmans Bay, a leisurely 15 minute ride South from Hobart.
Heather, I have plenty of floor space. If you book early you may even score the couch ;D

At this stage I will be home for those dates and able to attend the Turismo.
I may be getting a transfer to another ship, so It's possible I will be at sea. :'( I should be able to confirm in about a month.

Yeah but you get a t-shirt

dont wear em im a bonds man  ;D

Cool. Nice place.

I bags the couch  ;D ;D

shall be on the smart so will most likely drive to Melbourne and leave the Fidy and trailer in a storage facility,Then ride to the ferry.

Who's going in the trailer with you?

me and betty mightl be going

Well if I go as I'm still tentative.

Me and 2 others,they know who the are  [cheeky]

So confirmed 3, Not sure about Big Al yet, but we have had words,

 [thumbsup]

I have registered but can't totally commit right now.

whoo hoo onya rnj  [thumbsup]

hey bazz, yep have 2 weeks off at start of turismo, so we will get down and see ya one way or the other, just going to register now.

plenty of beds here if you need one  [beer]

yep well we might just take you up on that Bazz me mate. thanks heaps [thumbsup]

done you get the play boy suite   [thumbsup]

thanks Bazz, and we have now just both registered. [thumbsup] [moto]

That's great.  Need some more Ozmonster support.  [thumbsup]  Looks like Matty and Dock are doing what they did last Turismo - drop out that is.

well Heather there is some people you just cant rely on, anyway im going to see Bazz no matter what, and how i get there.

thanks jukie  [thumbsup] heather theres a bed here for you too if you need one

I am booked and paid for Turismo.  ;D Just started to work out my accommodation now. 
Booked one of the Queechy cottages in St Helens, got to work out Hobart and Devonport yet.

Cheers  Jen

Hi Jen - Wow fantastic.  More OzMo girls on Turismo  [thumbsup]. This is going to be fun.  Yes Bazz I was sortof hoping to get a bed at your place, please  ;D.  Will help with keeping costs down.

Jen. I've had the Devonport Visitor Centre arranging my accom. So far I've done Devonport. It's at the Edgewater Motor Inn $110 for the night.  I haven't booked Hobart yet - still waiting on Yellow Meanie's plans. Visitor Centre suggests Wrest Point, Sandy bay @ $137 per night.  I will probably stay at Wrest Point for the Thursday night as they have a big party night at the end of Turismo with entertainment and awards.  I will be staying in Tassie for a few extra days after Turismo but no plans where I'm going yet.  Love the west coast but haven't been down south of Hobart yet.

just a little warning without sounding paranoid what ever you do try and be of country roads by 7 pm as thats when the wild life comes out to play and its no fun hitting 100 kilo forester kangaroo on a bike , speaking from experience and bloody cows wandering the roads , and little towns like st helens wallabies at that time of the year like nothing better than to feed on our nature strips , also those that finally decide too go on the tourismo pm me for my phone number if you have any bike trouble or want any help with any thing and who likes oyster kill patrichs my wife makes the best youll ever try have fun and stay safe cheers bazz  [thumbsup]

Thanks Bazz

I'd like to add that the first time I rode in Tassie I found out that there is a lot of cow manure on the roads outside the numerous dairy farms and it gets very slippery when wet - not nice. Best to aim for the where car tyre treads have already passed over.

As to oysters - I have had some lovely fresh Tassie oysters raw but only on special ocasions as for the most part I'm vegetarian in my eating so I'll have mine with lemon juice please.  My  [bacon]  experiences are now limited to aroma only and watching everyone else enjoy them.

for you heather ill get you some flounder [thumbsup]

I still don't know either Heather. The office can be quite, "unpredictable", when letting us know about future plans [roll]
I will let you know as soon as I know!

Bazz, Betty and Jukie, I'll definitely have floor space. Or you can kick Matty out of the bed, or just all jump in there with him :-*


Is this Jen from Lonnie? On the red S2R? Egas's friend? Where have you been hiding? [cheeky]

thanks for the offer dave  [thumbsup] do you want a bed here too ill borrow some more beds

thanks Dave i think we can all jump in the same bed with Matty, hehehe

Oo I'm starting to get excited. I've registered, booked accomodation and the Spirit down to Tassie.
Will be staying on afterwards too.   ;D

H, you need to consider the Cygnet Loop and the ride out to the Tahuna Airwalk including Geevestown. ;D Awesome roads.

I wonder if Joe's Garage will still be there ...? Techno ?

Is this Jen from Lonnie? On the red S2R? Egas's friend? Where have you been hiding? [cheeky]
[/quote]

Hello all

Yes it is that Jen? how come you gone to Hobart? I have not been in here for months, I not alowed to go on turismo  :'(

EGAS

good to see lots of you coming here at last

where the hell has egas been! Good to hear from you!

Looks like the Tassie girls have been hibernating  [cheeky]. Hello Egas.  Why can't you come on Turismo  :'(  Not fair!

And Hello G you've been quiet too.  How much longer are you staying in Tassie after Turismo?  I would have to leave on the Monday night's ferry to get back to work on the Wednesday.  But I also have a couple of free days before Turismo too.  Haven't booked the ferry yet.  I was thinking about looking down Cygnet way. Thanks

 

I expected no other answer  [cheeky]
 

H,

I've been a bit tied up.

I'm catching the ferry on the Friday to Tas ( in Launceston on Saturday) and then most likely to return two weeks after that on the Saturday. :D

G

s this Jen from Lonnie? On the red S2R? Egas's friend? Where have you been hiding? cheeky

Hey Yellow Meanie

Yeah it sure is me, I been hiding from all this bloody rain!!
Have been over in SA doing some mountain biking and just bought myself a race bike for Symmons Plains so been pretty busy [thumbsup].

Hows the new house going buddy?
Looking forward to the Turismo ride, its going to be wicked,  [wine]  I been out on the duke today, went out through scottsdale and bridport, came back through pipers river.  Nice to have a sunny day!!

Cheers     Jen

i like them young Heather Matty is my teenage boy  :-*

waight too you meet this old fossil  :-*

At this stage it's "highly likely" that I will be home for Turismo ;D

I'm joining a new ship on Wednesday. My opposite will be my good friend and old flat mate from Lonnie.
I have already started negotiating / bribing him for the time off ;)

The only thing stopping me now, is if the office decides to send me to a different ship again.
Unfortunately, in my business, our positions are always subject to change.

At the moment, I'd say I'm 80% sure I'm in [beer]

ccooollll dave cant wait to see you again

ok guys and girls just paid for turismo, so where is everyone upto on this one

Decision pending......

c'mon matty you can do it

My itinerary so far:

Lonny hotel booked for Sunday night (7/2)
Devonport booked for Monday night (8/2)
St Helens booked for Tuesday night (9/2)  at Hotel Bazz  [thumbsup]
Hobart Wed/Thur/Fri nothing booked yet but have a tentative booking at Couches by Dave during this time.

Was thinking of getting ferry over on the Saturday night (6/2) not booked yet
and was thinking of spending a few extra days in Tassie after Turismo cos I don't have to go back to work straight away.  Will probably be heading south of Hobart round Cygnet way if anyone else wants to stay and play.

Re the Hobart part.  There is a party night on the last night (Thur) so staying in Hobart itself may be a good idea.  Not sure how far out Dave's place is?

Don't think I'm overly organised do ya?  [roll]  I must have had a good time last one  [laugh]  [wine] [drink] [beer] [moto]

Not nearly as organised as I want to be ... I've been giving Jukie the hurry up.

How are you guys getting to Tassie? Ferry from Sydney or Melbourne? & when?  The Devonport Visitor Centre can book all your accomm for you if you give em a call.

We will be looking at the ferry on Saturday night too ... they stopped running from Sydney a couple of years ago unfortunately, so we will be making a mad dash for Melbourne.

Anybody have recommendations about accom on the boat considering we are looking at night crossings?

Have done two night crossings.  Once in the cheap seats and once in a cabin.  Get the cabin - the sleep is needed. Besides the bar shuts at about midnight so there's not much to do after that  [cheeky]

so yes i have just been grant the friday off on the 5th so yes we will be leaving that day

Jukie I'm intending to leave friday morning and do it in 2 stints , I'm going to stay in Tathra. The Tathra beachhouse looks pretty good.
I am also going to pay for a cabin on the Saturday ferry even if the matresses are only about an inch thick of soft foam!
I do have plenty of time off after the Turismo so yes I was thinking of staying in Tasmania for a few extra days.
I haven't booked any accomodation as yet. I sent an email to the event managers asking where the dinners where each night so I could book a place nearby.   

ok cool thanks for that, yes we are thinking of getting a cabin as well on the ferry. we have not yet book any accomodation yet either, but we are going to try and booking nearby as well. PM me if you get anymore info.

Thanks Raggady Anne  :-*

I'm still in given its my home event.

On the spirit defn get a cabin. I got plenty of sleep both times  I went and you won't regret the extra cash it costs.

Heather, Daves place is a bit out of town. Not sure how much a cab fare would be but it might pay to get somewhere in the city that night.

I've booked Launc but not Devonport or St Helens. Must do it soon as its likely to fill up.

+ 1 on the Spirit Cabins. :)
I'll be staying on for a bit after Turismo in Hobart then catching up with the Scumbags for a few more days around Tassie.  ;D

Ferry booked for Sat 6/2  [thumbsup]

Techno - aren't we lobbing in with you in Hobart? ? ?  [laugh] just joking.

G - what/where are you going/doing after Turismo. Is that the people you went to Tassie with before?  Room for any more?  I'm leaving on the Monday night ferry.

The plan is to spend time with my GF for St V's day and then catch up with the group up North or out on the East coast.
I'll be heading back two Fridays after Turismo. The booking is done, but if someone drops out I can let you know. :)

your more than welcome too base here heather and exsplore

Very many thanks G and Bazz for the offers.  :-*

This is my third Tassie visit and I haven't yet seen anything to the south of Hobart down Cygnet way so that's where I want to be heading. So looks like I'm on my own unless anyone else's plans sound like mine?

Heather we still need to formulate our plans, we have a few days to spare to take in the 'must sees' of Tassie as it will be our first time (for some reason map of Tassie and virgin just sprung to mind, maybe she has had an influence on me after all these years). If it has taken you three trips to head south perhaps that is not the 'must see' area  [laugh]

If anybody has any ideas of the things to see and do in Tassie, please let me know.

Thanks

dont blink  ;D

The first time I went was with little notice over a Xmas break so not much planning.  Spent 3 weeks there.  2 weeks on the bike did 2.5 laps and one week volunteer greenie work.
Second time with an extremely disorganised group of people and went more or less the same places I had already been.

You don't need a lot of time to go round at least once.  It all depends on what you like doing.  I did the Gordon River cruise in Strahn.  Climbed the Nut in Stanley and spotted platypus au natural, walked around Dove lake at Cradle mountain, made paper in Devonport, patted Tassie devils and cuddled a baby wombat at Mole Creek, saw seahorses, platypus and echidnas in Beauty Point.  Went hiking in Cataract Gorge in Launceston, went swimming in Wineglass bay, had a snowball fight at the top of Mt Wellington, got hypothermia riding up over Derwent River, got dizzy riding the road into Queenstown and ate far too much good food.  I wouldn't recommed the slide ride down into Dismal Swamp - it kills your back.

So the little corner down south of Hobart is the only bit I've missed out so far so that's where I'm going.  It may only take me a day or two so then I'll probably head over the west coast cos I like it over there. But it's all good.  Only one road to avoid and that's the main hwy right up the middle from Hobart to Devonport I think.  Only bloody straight road in Tassie.

You'd better book that hotel in Hobart Heather. It's no longer looking good for me :'(

I was trying to organise with my opposite for the time off, but he's doing a relieving trip on another ship at the moment. If I ask him to swap now, it will mean he will be at sea for about 3 months. He wouldn't mind so much, but I reckon his "Mrs" will have other ideas.

It really sucks when I miss out on cool stuff like this  [bang]
Then again, I love the fact I only work 6 months of the year  ;D
And there's still a chance I could make it anyway...


As far as "Must See's" in the South go. I'm still a tourist myself!
I have been to Hastings Caves, near Dover. They are worth a look, quite cheap and really interesting. Take a jumper, even in Summer it will be really cold in the cave.

Techno knows all the good roads down that way, I'm sure he'll take you for a spin [thumbsup]

Sorry to hear that Dave  :'(

Have booked a hotel in Hobart now.  Hopefully we can still catch up for a ride sometime round then anyway.  [moto] [coffee]


What's the ride out to Strathgordon like?  I've heard different stories about road surface but I might just do it for the scenery anyway.

the roads about the same or even better than most  [thumbsup]

Yeah I know a few. Pretty much all day rides too.

Sorry to hear you won't be making it Dave. You can always do your own Turismo on your days off.

Heather, I would be up for a few rides on the weekend after Turismo. I reckon I'll be back at work on the Monday though.

Strathgordon is a pretty good ride but defn only done in summer. Its basically a road into a dam and then back out the same way. Can get a bit tough to spot the gravel due to the lighter colour of the road. Fuel up at Maydena. If they are still selling fuel at Strathgordon it will be bloody expensive.

I'm starting to get exicted about this one. Also looks like the better half will be pillion this time around. Pretty brave to take on the pillion seat of the monster for days on end. If it gets too uncomfortable she can always pike and travel with a friends wife who is taking the car.

Sounds good.  My itinerary is shaping up!   [moto]

Well this one had almost slipped off the front page, so I thought I would resurrect it with some questions about luggage.

We are going to be on the road for just over 2 weeks all up and have never done any more than an overnighter on the bikes ... so what advice do you guys have for us?

From the outset I will say that the Ventura rack will no longer fit on my bike ... well at least not without removing the tail, exhausts and rear suspension. I'd say also that saddle bags would be out for similar reasons. So any other suggestions? Tank bags (plastic tank), tail bags, backpacks?

I have been looking at the Kriega stuff (http://www.kriega.com.au/ (http://www.kriega.com.au/)) but I don't know how much I will need for two weeks on the road. Admittedly I will make Jukie carry most things anyway but its only fair that I at least look at the options.

So anything to offer? Things to do, things to avoid, how to pack and what to pack ... let me have it!

Don't carry backpacks - they are a pain (literally) to ride with.
In 2 weeks you will be able to do some washing somewhere, even if it's just handwashing in the motel bathroom sink and hanging up on a balcony or in the bathroom so pack a bit of washing powder and obtain a pegless clothes line (from camping/hiking stores) so that will cut down on some clothes.

Pack thin layers of clothing - nothing bulky. Again hiking stores have loads of this stuff in differing price ranges. Also dries quicker after washing. Being Tassie you will need thermals too.

Roll clothes tightly don't fold.  I don't know why but you can fit more in.

Decant bathroom products into smaller bottles - no point taking large bottles of shampoo if you only have to take the leftovers home - or use the stuff provided in the motels.

Back when I used to travel two up I always found that female clothes pack down smaller - always amazed my partner that I could take more clothes than him. Even though he was a skinnier than me!   This is just a point for Jukie - I am not suggesting you cross dress for the trip  [roll]


I have a bagster tag bank but I find it gets in the way so won't be using it this trip - ventura for me.

Its the mo isn't it ... its all I've heard since Thursday night :-[

Heather your packing tips seem similar to our trip to Italy its just carrying it all on the bike I am worried about.

Thermals in Feb has me worried ... and I am becoming more worried about backpacks and tank bags.

I have never been a fan of the tank bag but I am running out of options ... is it the hassle of re-fueling or just getting in the way while riding?

I have been reading a lot on the forum and so many people have advised against backpacks ... is the pain a gradual thing over the course of the trip? I have done days of say 500km without a problem so figured the issue must be accumulative ... any idea?

Also we have an odd tail on the Monsters ... any viable options there?

Hey Betty

Have you looked into the Bags-Connection Racepack as suggested by stopintime in the below link:

http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=23853.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=23853.0)

Not exactly pretty (what luggage is?) but looks like you could fit a kitchen sink in there without the worry of a tank bag.

Haven't seen the mo Betty so can't comment.

My tankbag sits pretty tall on the tank and I'm only little so yes it gets in the way when I'm riding.  I would only use it on long trips to lug gear to a common base and leave it there whilst I rode twisties unencumbered.

Yes the backpack is a cumlative thing.  All that stress on your shoulders and neck is not a good thing.

If ventura type racks are definitely out, I have seen bags that fit/strap to the pillion seat but I'm not sure who makes them, could be Andystrapz.  Anyone else here know what I'm talking about?

As opposed to Vic having four seasons in one day, Tassie can have 8!  I have suffered hypothermia at Xmas time in Tassie whilst getting sunburnt 3 days later!  It pays to be prepared. Tassie guys - tell me I'm wrong  [evil]

Thanks Wayne I am a bit worried about that Racepack as my high mount pipes are higher than most. I had been looking at those Givi brackets that Stoppie had also linked to ... but it is something I think I would need to see in person and size it up to the bike ... plus I'd need to re-mount the pillion pegs (not a biggy).

Heather I will trawl through the Andystraps website ... there is a lot of generic luggage options there it would seem. But just quickly back to your tank bag (sorry to be a pain) do you think a short one (less high) would be that much of a problem?


Shit! Don't tell Jukie that I've already paid for the boat!
(and who is going to carry all my luggage then)

Ask away Betty.  The more info the better and whatever you come up with could well benefit all our touring experiences.

A shorter tank bag would help yes.  Depends on how long your arms and torso are.  But I did have a much taller friend ride it with this setup and he wasn't very impressed.  It's not dangerous or anything like that.  It just detracted from the fun somewhat. Matty has the same tank bag set up so Matty if your listening could you maybe add your 2c worth.

You're right H, the weather can, and does change pretty quickly down here. I've noticed the weather in Hobart to be a little more fickle than Launceston. I think Mt. Wellington tends to generate it's own little system over Hobart, producing instantaneous showers/squalls/snow even when it's fine and clear elsewhere.

Saying that, I still don't yet own any proper wet weather gear. I just pick my days to ride  ;)
February should be the warmest part of the year, but I would take a set of thermals just in case. They wont take up much room. I have a thin "polar fleece" type jumper I wear under my leather jacket, again, it would roll up pretty small when packed.

The only long trip I have done on the bike was Brisbane to Tassie, when I first bought her.
I had a fairly large tank bag that didn't seem to get in the way too much. That was with "city bars" though. Now that I have clip-ons it would be next to useless.
I love my little tail bag. It does expand, but I think it may be a little small for a trip this long.

Luckily for Betty and Jukie, they will be able to cut down on and share some of the essential gear. Tools, chain-lube, puncture repair kit, shampoo, soap, toothbrush etc...

A couple of comments on the tank bag option. If it's not over stuffed and not too big, it can be quite useful to have on the bike - for long trips I used to rest on it sometimes - especially if you are just chewing miles to get somewhere. Secondly I felt it sort of balanced the bike a bit having some weight up front(probably psychological & not really making any difference, but...). Good to keep a few items in it that you might need in a hurry - eg. rain pants, spare gloves...
Mine is magnetic, so no big hassle when refuelng.

...apart from that i highly recommend getting a sherpa!  ;)

Well I've got one, but like I said I have to be seen to be trying.

Any issues with rubbing or scratching paint using a tank bag ... s'pose the same goes for any tail bag options but at least you have the option of removing the cowl (I probably won't get far without the tank).

Hey Betty,


I did tail bag + tank bag to WSBK @PI in Feb and I didn't have any problems whatsoever.. One of the guys I went down with only had a backpack on a he is still seeing a chiropractor.  [roll]

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3596/3325911214_ba38f2c147.jpg)

I had both the tail and tank bags zipped into their smallest size (they can get way larger than in the pic) and I managed to fit in everything I needed for 6 days. I still had plenty of room to spare.

The tank bag could get in your way if you were really fanging, but like Mostro mentions I found it handy for leaning on. The tail bag pretty much means you have to take off your rear cowl.

If you want me to bang both the bags on the bike and meet you up PITS so you can check it out over the next week or so, let me know.

But you should have smelt him by the time we got to Eden on the way back (joke Craigo!)

Luckily I am ahead of the game with questionable personal hygiene and fashion sense.

Craigo thanks for the offer I will send a PM.

On a more serious note, I'd agree with everything that H has said, and she should know about travelling on the bike!

I'm not brave enough to tell you to leave your thermals at home. I once camped at Cradle Mt in summer and damn near froze my arse off. I suspect we will be riding up that way this time due to the announced route.

Sorry it doesn't help with the packing.

As for tank bags, I've got a low one that doesn't get in the way at all except when you go to refuel. Plastic tank means you need a strap-on. (No, not what your thinking). [roll]

I have the same tail bag as craigo, it's made by Ventura; holds a fair bit when expanded, just zip it down & it carries all you need for day trips  :) Not sure about carrying enough in it for 2 weeks but if you pack conservatively, take quick drying items & can do some washing every now & then.....or pack it full of body spray & deoderant  ;)

Last Jan it snowed in Wilmot 2 days before we rocked through, so you really do need to take the thermals. Having said that we were there for 2 weeks & I only wore my thermal pants 3 times, when we had early starts. It drizzled on us for about 5 mins in Zeehan otherwise we had blue skies & sunshine everyday, twas glorious & I can't wait to get back there  [moto]

Thanks again guys. I think we have the luggage sorted now ... although contrary to advice I am still considering taking a back pack (for light bulky things like polar fleece).

But another question I have is - is there a good/better/best way to fix a tailbag? The Monster design has tail light and seat latch well forward under the seat, so where do you put your straps, any advice?

My rear strap is threaded through the metal loop/latch. I've been told I shouldn't :-\ but, seems to work & doesn't interfere with anything.

I hope you all have your accom sorted. Seems like there's not much left from what I hear.

Really looking forward to this one.

BTW, I've been thinking about the need for thermals. I doubt we will be going anywhere near the west coast which is where they are most likely to be needed. This ride seems like it will be mainly east coast which is always warmer. But you know how it is... if you bring them you won't need them but if you leave them at home.... [bang]

Betty, Andy55 and Jukie are all sharing accommodation together, so it is all sorted for the turismo week, thanks Techno

OK so I have been a complete arsehole today trying to figure out what we are doing following Turismo. I hate not having a plan so not knowing the Tursimo route is really doing my head in ... not to mention the time after ... Jukie has been bearing the brunt.

So what are your plans? I know there have been a few things (like Heather heading down south and mention of a trip out to the dam, etc) ... but are we going to organise any Ozmo rides following Turismo or any other non-Turismo group events?

We are planning on spending a couple of extra days in Hobart, then maybe a trip back up the east coast to pick up a few things we may have missed on the way down.

We were then thinking of finishing off with a couple of days up north (around the big towns) and using this as a base to explore a little bit further. Does this sound like a good idea? Would it be feasible to explore a little further afield (west maybe) from there? Would it be worth parking up the bikes somewhere and using a car for a while?

Any input or advice?

There's heaps of stuff to do Betty.  Just depends what you're into and what we already get to see/do on turismo.  There's devil parks near Hobart and Mole Creek.  Platypus house and Seahorse house at Beauty Point.  Hiking in Cataract Gorge in Launceston. You can make your own paper in Burnie.  Go for a walk around Dove Lake at Cradle mountain.  Go over to Stanley on the North West Coast (nice quiet place). Go down to Strahn for a cruise up the Gordon River.  No need for a car just ride the bikes.

The first time I went to Tassie I grabbed a heap of brochures each town I stopped in then decided each morning on that day's activities.  (It was a very short notice, unplanned trip). 

I'm doing South of Hobart because it's the only part of Tassie I haven't seen yet.  May even jump in a kayak if it warms up enough.

I only have a couple of extra days. I'm booked on the Monday night ferry.  Although, if things go the way I want, I won't have a job by then and could probably change my departure date.

If anyone wants to propose an OzMo ride, I'll consider it.

Thanks Heather I had no fear of having nothing to do ... I just have a pathological need to plan - and I didn't want to miss anything that is really worth doing.

Of course if there are any extra curricular Ozmo happenings I really shouldn't be missing those.

The reason I asked about the car option is because I wouldn't be keen on leaving the bikes and (maybe) luggage while I walked around Dove Lake in full leathers for example ... and did I mention I tend to over-think things until I am incapable of making a decision.

Ah screw it, maybe I should just ride around the island until I get dizzy ... then I can throw up and do it all again in the opposite direction.

Which is exactly what I did on my first visit.  If you do end up getting a car you can lock your bikes up under cover at Hobart airport.  Not too expensive.

Can understand the angst I have been known to have the odd OCD moment but luckily for the me the old age dementia is now overshadowing it.  [laugh]

FYI: I just received an email to say that the organisers have opened up some more places for the Turismo 2010.
 :)

Errrrr...... remember what I was saying about thermals?

Last week was  pretty much the middle of summer and in Tas we got this.....

http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2010/01/19/122531_tasmania-news.html (http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2010/01/19/122531_tasmania-news.html)

Who knows what weather we will get for Turismo!

Long range forcast is wet for Tuesday and Wednesday.  Be prepared.  [evil]

What.  Wonder how many more?  ??? Where they gonna stay?  :o Oh well the more the merrier.  [beer]  (Only if they riding Monsters tho [moto])

I will still be taggin' along on the 10th (have swapped my day off).  Have also kept the weekend after free!!  Anyone else from hobart wanting to ride on the 10th let me know.

Not long NOW!!
Nic

I might catch up with them in St Helens if I can stay with Jen for the night maybe [roll]

Egas [roll]

Hi Egas long time no chat maybe I will get to see you on the 10th Looking forward to seeing Jen too! 

It seemed to say only a small number. I guess that for some, unforeseen circumstances have meant that they needed to withdraw.
It's beginning to dawn upon me how quickly 9 Turismos have passed. ;)

road report , the bass highway or it should be named bass goat track is being torn up and being resurfaced so if you dont like loose blue stone  or being sand plastered by blue stone fron the trucks that cant read the 60 kay speed limits i would think twice about riding from launie to st helens that way cheers bazz

Do  [leo] still use the mobile camera cars in Tassi.or what ever it was i didn't see it,just had nice love letter from the [leo] when i got home.
Got done there in 2002  [bang] [bang] near  the Cradle Mt turn off heading to Zeehan to do some work,must be one of the remotest bits of road.
They gave up using those camera cars here in NSW years ago  [thumbsup]

yep but they dont get bikes cause they only work now on oncomming traffic  [clap]

i hope that low pressure system thats comming down the coast moves out to sea other wise if it stays noth easterly the tourismo gunna be wet  [bang]

My map doesn't show the Bass Hwy as going from Launie to St Helens; can you please give Route number?

i forget  how many ive had bit of a rud question  [cheeky] sorry try the A3 tasman highway i going roo shooting up there tonight so will give an update cheers bazz  [thumbsup]

Thanks  :)

road good  [thumbsup]

Hi Bazz glad to see you back here [thumbsup]

hi nicky are you staying the knight too  [drink]

I'm meeting a fellow Monsterista at the roundabout on way to Spirit of Tasmania this evening before boarding.
To my fellow Turismotisti, see you in Launceston.
I think that when we meet up my accomodation group has at least 5 Monsters in it. Virtually a Monster train.  ;)
If we haven't been introduced, HeatherP, Techno and Trinity could point me out.
Ciao ciao.
 :D

Not staying Bazz, sorry to say that i will be working Tuesday  :'( , still hoping to catch everyone on the road somewhere on the Wednesday,  I should have checked the weather before the forum, hopefully it is better than today.  I am so like a little kid before christmas at the moment  :D.  Happy rides everyone and fingers crossed i will see you on wednesday.

I

I'm starting to get just a little bit excited.  [moto]
Got a dentist's visit today to get out of the way first  :P although I do have a 100km ride to get there, he is cute and a flirt (but he's still a dentist  [bang])
Then have to start packing. What to take? Sunscreen and wet weather gear I suppose  ;D

Not the DENTIST :o good luck with that and with the packing pretty much from swimming to snow gear should cover it! 

have a great time DMFers

ride safe and look after each other

look forward to a write up and maybe some pics

Yes, lots of pics please for Mr. Meanie who is stuck on a boat  :'(

I'll be stuck on a boat tomorrow night Dave.......
on my way to Tassie Turismo  [moto] [moto] [moto] [moto] [cheeky] :-*

OMG it's finally here! Turismo time & I'm free from work for 2 weeks! I'm sooooo excited  [moto]

have a great time everybody and please stay safe.
there better be some good pictures too!

paul.
(very, very jealous!)

Thanks Vossy and Paul maybe next time you can join us.  [thumbsup]

im hoping my new toy will arrive a canon  7d before you lot turn up and i take some oil out too the twisties and get some good action shots of you lot riding through  [evil] [thumbsup]

Not long now peeps!

Finished work today and I'm off all next week. I suppose some of you are already on the way.

I'll be in the garage tomorrow fitting my new Ventura rack which arrived in the mail today. For a while there it looked like I'd be putting my bag on the bus!

I'll see some of you in Launc on Sunday. [moto]

got the prawns for the barbie  and the vodka see you all Tuesday [drink]

+1.

Have a great & safe time all. Look forward to the stories and pics  [thumbsup]

yep that's the plan [thumbsup] [moto]

Hello peoples,

Jukie and I have arrived at Chateau de Bazz ... it has been completely uneventful so far. Three days of rain on the way down to Melbourne, a sleepless night on the boat and a little bit or riding around doing the marsupial slalom in Tassie.

Oh yeah and we almost missed the boat.

How was The Sidling?  [evil]

And Weldborough Pass?  [moto]



Best road evaaaaar  ;D

To be honest I've got no idea where we have been. Bazz has been telling us we haven't done the best roads yet ... and may not ???

they came down the bloody highway dave  [bang]

Bloody tourists !!! [laugh] Please tell Jukie that I miss her antics.
Kaz

By highway, you mean the A3 right??? How the hell else do you get to St. Helens???

You don't mean that the Ducati Turismo organisers took everyone down the Midlands do you?  [puke]
Please tell me there is some other secret twisty road that I don't know about  ???

Gosh I am so jelous of you guys.

Keep an eye out for papa smurf on a rough looking 916/996 and his wife (Lou) on a orange (dare I say tangerene) Aprilia






                         Mmick

anyone know this gal? she was tagging along with a few of the sydney guys and my friends from the US.. and promoting the Monster Forum..

(http://www.ducatispot.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=25679&stc=1&d=1265717387)

Looks like Heather to me.

Looks like the weather was nice in that photo

yes dave they thought it was a back road but it was the esk highway [bang]

and here she is showing her displeasure at taking an alternate route ..

(http://www.ducatispot.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=25681&stc=1&d=1265717914)


and most importantly..doing some riding  ;D

(http://www.ducatispot.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=25683&stc=1&d=1265717914)

and my friends from the US ..with my Multi :(


(http://www.ducatispot.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=25687&stc=1&d=1265718818)

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/4344229083_39261e3ac5_o.jpg)

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4061/4344966796_f54b5071ab_o.jpg)

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4052/4344967002_528af23d92_o.jpg)

That's definitely Heather. I recognise that ipod holder from the sbk trip! Tho who's bike is she on, it can't be hers, theres too much bling on it . I'm seeing wave rotors, new mirrors..... oh dear, what have we created  [moto]

We have been blessed with lovely weather conditions during the ride this Turismo. Nice to catch up with my fellow DMFers at Cargo last night. :D

Thanks for posting your pic.
I realize that we have met before; on th road to the Adelaide Turismo and sailing over to this Turismo.
If you are at the dinner tonight I'll pop over and say Hi again.
:D

Gee go away for a little ride and my pic gets plastered all over the internet.  Yes tis me.  Ozducati your multi is having way too much fun without you  ;D

Re: bling - Yes Nick, see what me being part of this place has done to me (who was never, ever going to bling her bike!!) Let that be a warning to others.  [cheeky]

Having heaps of fun meeting old and new friends.  Taken a few pics but looks like people taking plenty of me too. Carding as many monsters as I can (including Oz's friends from Montana because Candice wants a Monster) Heaps of monsters on the ride, heaps of women riding monsters (and other models).  Have met Trinity and Jen and will be meeting Roxy696 today.

You should see what Andy and Betty ate at the pizza bar last night yuk  [puke]

Having a lovely time wish you were here  [wine]

That's not me.. it's Scotty, he's the Vice Pres of the South Coast Ducati Owners Club.. and a very nice guy as well :)

Hey Heather, the NSW guys have been sending me pics every day.. now i just need to get all the news to go with them... hope you are all safe and enjoying.. Ted & Candice tell me they're having a ball!

Hi a very sad  :'( nic here as I was too sick to play with the other bikes yesterday  [bang] but looking forward to stories and pics too and maybe still meeting heather and never know who else.  Weather has turned a bit average today but fingers crossed it passes quickly.

Happy Rides
Nic

I have some complaints

First of all, can everybody stop riding past my work, I'm getting no work done!!

Second, my last twin made the windows rattle, no one has come close yet :( whats wrong afraid of too much noise?

Complaints? At least you get to see them go by!! >:( Happy regards from rainy SA  ;D ;D [laugh]

Oh and mine would make your windows rattle - loud pipes save lives!  [laugh] [thumbsup]

word is the Tassie Police were out in force yesterday waiting for the Turismo riders... a mate from SA caught doing a ridiculous speed and had it downgraded to "Public Nuisance" .. which was really funny.. also apparently they had 2 cars pulling everyone up and doing licence and rego checks...

sounds like a SA rider to me!!  [cheeky]

I get to second that, i am on the ground floor of the marine Board Building and my neck is getting sore

 [bow_down]

yes I have been given a warning from a bike cop in Tassie for speeding, he told me i was doing 60km/hr..... in a 60 zone and got quite angry when i laughed at him, then he did a full bike check and was then going to book me for concealment of number plate (half the border line was covered by rego sticker)

Yep they were everywhere after more than 100 complaints from the public the day before about bikes speeding and overtaking on double white lines - well they shouldn't drive so slow.  Road block stopped all bikes for licence and rego checks whilst waving all cages through  [bang].  Most people that got stopped by the mobles got cautions but the odd one or two got tickets. Seems like 300 Ducati riders make a scary bunch.   

Then there were the two cops hiding in the ditch with their hi-vis shirts on.  Nah couldn't see em at all  [cheeky]

Took a streetfighter for a test ride today.  Anyone wanna buy me a birthday pressie?  [roll]

Sounds like a bit of hide and seek down there then.
I wonder what might happen to the Tassie public if they were besieged by a real bikers group.
Very scary us Ducati types!
Hope you all are having fun, ride safe hope you get home without the sky opening up again.

wait til the "Buell Muster" gets there for 10 days.. in March i think, have seen it advertised....

this year's Turismo with extra police scrutiny meant that more strategic riding (much like in Victoria) was required this time...

The Turismo dinner last night was an absolute hoot! :D
Today, we went for a quickie around the Cygnet loop.
there are quite a few Ducatis staying on post event.

Im probably the first one to get back home as I live at the finishing point. I had a great time and did about 1400KM over the four days. The weather was actually really good. Mostly hot and no rain despite it being forcast for the Wednesday.

I took very few photos, mainly because I was too busy riding but also because of battery issues. I'm sure others will post some up, especially Heather as she had her G11 out at any opportunity.

The final dinner was brilliant with just about everyone getting into the pirate theme.

I then managed to bag a test ride on an 848. As I knew the roads used for the test course I managed to give it a blast through some corners but only briefly. I doubt I'll be buying one. Nice bike for its purpose but not practical enough for me.

Here are some photos to start things off.

The starting line up in Launceston.
(http://i755.photobucket.com/albums/xx193/techno_photo/Turismo%202010/waiting.jpg)

Rearing to go.
(http://i755.photobucket.com/albums/xx193/techno_photo/Turismo%202010/rearingtogo.jpg)

Mr and Mrs Techno at Deloraine on day two.
(http://i755.photobucket.com/albums/xx193/techno_photo/Turismo%202010/twoup.jpg)

Dinner in Hobart on Wednesday night. From left to right is Andy, Mrs Techno, Techno, Heather, Jukie and Betty.
(http://i755.photobucket.com/albums/xx193/techno_photo/Turismo%202010/groupatcargo.jpg)

A small number of participants at Bothwell.
(http://i755.photobucket.com/albums/xx193/techno_photo/Turismo%202010/bothwell.jpg)

Thats all for now.

Thanks for the pics Techno,

    Must really make sure I get myself together next year to do the Tourismo. 

Thanks Matty. They are snap shots really. Not a lot of thought or composition.

They haven't yet decided where the next one will be. I reckon it will be NSW somewhere. Maybe a repeat of the very first Tusimo course. It will be late 2011, prob sept/Oct so that gives us plenty of time to prepare.

no prob Techno,

     Any pics are great just to see whats going at Tourismo.
Is that the talk from this year that the next one will be later in 2011?

Sorry to hear you have been given a hard time down here by the local [leo]  Unfortunately there is still a perception that a group of bike riders travelling together must be Bad. Riding around here with  1 or 2 friends we don't get hassled.  Hope it did not ruin your trip...it only takes one silly oldie to complain and the [leo]have a reason to stop you.  Hope to see mor pics
Travel well

Had a wicked time on the ride!!!  Shame about the police [leo], we had to out smart them a little which wasn't that hard with them trying to high in ditches with bright fluro vests on!!!  Bit funny.  Still got pulled over for speeding, they where hiding on coast road with binoculars and saw us coming.  

Finally met up with Heather, leigh, Jukie and Betty.  Caught up with Roxy696 for breaky in hobart (sorry for being a bit hung over Roxy!!).

The big Gala dinner was great  [thumbsup]with the pirate theme, we won the best dressed, I went as a pirate and pete dressed as a parrot.  After the dinner we went to casino with our plastic treasure and put it on a few numbers on the roulette table, they laughed at us, made us leave our swords at the door on the way through security [laugh]!!
Not sure how to put up pics yet but when I work it out I will  ???

What a great week!! [clap]

Yes Matty. I think it might have even been Warren Lee who said so....but I was drinking at the time. That is defn my impression.

Sounds great Jen,

   To put pics up you need to host them somewhere i.e. Flickr
Then once they are up you can embed them here using the image tags like this (http://paste image location here)
The image tags can be found above the posting window 2nd on the left.

Thanks for the further info on the next Tourismo Techno, will very much aim to get to one.
Seeming as I have now missed two years since owning the Monster(s)

Hi everyone.  Still having fun down here in Tassie.  Staying in Cygnet.  Went out to Strathgordon dam yesterday with Roxy696.  Absolutely magic day. Everyone else in the state got drowned but we had it dry and sunny :) Yellow meanie I have a bone to pick with you about this ride  [evil] - I had the impression that the road wasn't real good.  It's in better condition than most main roads in Vic!

Having a lazy day today then back up north tomorrow for lunch with Jen in Launy then onto the red bus and home  :'( :'(

I'm back at work on wednesday so it may take some time to post pics but it will happen.

Being my second turismo I can't recommend it enough. 

This was my tenth Turismo and like you Heather, I can highly recommend it.
My group have been in Strahan for two days and next we head off to Penguin via the Hellyer Gorge.
there have been some truly awesome roads out this way. :D

this is what too much home brew can do and jukies turning into a taswegien  [cheeky]



(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2725/4358282499_f92f67fa78_o.jpg)

Now that's not fair, very lucky you two are good friends.
It does scare me a little though.

I wonder if anyone knows if Andy 55 is still in Tassie. I thought that I waved to him in Burnie this arvo and then again when he rode through Penguin this evening.

G'day G

Yes that was me in Burnie and Penguin yersterday , sorry I didn't recognise you or I would have pulled over.
The ride up from Hobart through Derwent Bridge onto Queenstown and Strahan was fantastic , sunshine almost all the way. I've sure had an awsome time..Thanks Betty and Jukie.....Great to have met Heather , Teckno and Mrs Teckno , Trinity , Roxy and Steve? from N.T. I will be back next year for sure.
I was on last nights ferry , it was a very smooth crossing but still not much sleep! Doh!
I'm spending a day with my brother in Melbourne before heading North for Alpine country.

Andy.

I never said it wasn't good...

Maybe I just should have slowed down for the bumpy parts  :P



I'm glad you lot enjoyed our local tracks roads  [clap]

Hi, I was treated to  [coffee]  [laugh] oh and hugs do NOT forget the Hugs on Thursday with Heather, Jukie, Betty and Andy which was great, then on Friday more  [coffee] with Jen and Pete appreciated both.  Then the ride on Saturday with Heather was very good, we met a couple of WA guys at Strathgordon (last time I went there I met 2 guys from WA as well, do they only travel in pairs?) 3 out of these 4 WA riders were on Ducatis but none on the Turismo. 

Happy Rides
nic

Okay I've finally loaded up my pics.  I tried to take a broad spectrum of pics to give you a feel for what Turismo is about rather than pics of a whole load of bikes.  Hopefully it will inspire some more of you to come on the next one.  I made heaps of friends on the SA one which I met up with again.  And made many more new friends. I had an absolute ball and hope I'm able to go to the next one.  Needless to say there are lots of stories but you know the saying ... what happens away!!! Feel free to add comments.  If any one wants copies pm me. And finally I found this rather disturbing creature.  Hope it doesn't give Bazz nightmares.  [laugh]
Photos here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/heatherp64/4368047713/#in/set-72157623337634117 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/heatherp64/4368047713/#in/set-72157623337634117)


Don't look Bazz  :o :o :o


I'm warning you..... don't do it...... :o :o







(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4369368998_702034cda4.jpg)

More pics here: http://www.ducati.com.au/08/galleryTemplate.php?gallery_id=30 (http://www.ducati.com.au/08/galleryTemplate.php?gallery_id=30)

An-dy, An-dy, An-dy  ;D ;D ;D

well done Monstergirl  ;D

Great pics Heather.
I will make every effort to be at the next one.

Great photos Heather
Andy looks the real deal in that pirate suite. 8)
Betty looks ready for the Mardigra [laugh] :-*

Hey now don't tease us with this what happens away stayes away crap. :-X
We want all the dirt. ;)
Stalker what the ;D
What did we get up to [evil]

 ;D ;D

sorry rob what happens on the road  [evil] great pix heather it was nice to have international guest  [laugh] thats not fair arming the rabbits on me  [clap]

Well done Heather. Great photos. [thumbsup]

I think the official ones go up soon on Keith Muirs site.

No worries Andy, you waved and that's good enough. :)

Glad to see you made it back okay.


We just arrived at Port Melbourne this morning.

If anybody wants the 2010 Turismo DVD and/or the 10th Anniversary Tshirts, they are for sale here: http://stores.shop.ebay.com.au/Ducati-Turismo-Merchandise (http://stores.shop.ebay.com.au/Ducati-Turismo-Merchandise)

Just home now with 4700 kms worth of bugs on the bike , a shagged chain and rear tyre........that was oh so good  [thumbsup]

Sounds like too much fun!
4700k's means about a million fuel stops for me.
What did you do for luggage in the end Andy.

Official photos are up: http://www.bike-photos.com/index.asp (http://www.bike-photos.com/index.asp) all 2765 of them!
To find them: Step 1 is Ride days, step 2 Ducati Turismo, step 3 2010 Tassie, step 4 pick a day.

No incriminating photos of OzMos found (phew!)  ;) There are some good shots of Andy and Jukie showing off their competitive spirit in Monday's Atmos pics.

He actually managed to get some of me riding this year. And I didn't realise there were quite so many Monsters on the ride.  Good to see.

Matty
I bought a Ventura rack with the Aerospada bag. I ended up buying another Aerodelta bag in Launceston and zipping them back to back. Works very well except that I've damaged my seat cowl now from the bag resting on it and wearing through the paint and into the fibreglass. Another item to add to the list of damaged stuff!
Looks like I'll be getting the tank and cowl sprayed sooner rather than later.

And what's the go with accommodation.

From what I've read here it looks like its up to you to organise your own digs but nobody was wearing riding gear at the social events. I take it there was no problem getting accommodation close to the "events" and everyone just walked. Is that it  ???

Hey there Wayne
Yes it was upto you to organise your own accomodation , they ran buses to pick people up from various motels nearby. At St Helens I was staying only 100 metres or so from the dinner so I walked.

They organised buses to and from the venues/hotels. So that we could  [drink] [beer] [wine] and run amok  :o

oops sorry Andy didn't mean to butt in.

Got home yesterday   :'(

Turismo was great fun, loved putting some faces to names; met Heather lining up to get on the Spirit in Melbourne, Jukie, Andy & Mark on the boat, Techno in Devonport & others but my mind is a blur (sorry  :-[ ). Bumped into Andy again in Queenstown after Turismo finished; the only day it rained. Yes folks you were right, Jukie is hard to miss :P

Staying on for the extra time was awesome; found some new roads, re-visited some old & much loved favourites, road quad bikes & went sea kayaking at Coles Bay. I highly recommend both to anyone visiting the area; friendly helpful guides & soooo much fun, we got to see places that you can't get to unless you have a four wheel drive or hike a long way, gorgeous scenery & wildlife, especially the massive stingrays. Can I blatantly plug the tour companies here?

http://www.freycinetadventures.com.au/freycinet-sea-kayaking/freycinet-paddle (http://www.freycinetadventures.com.au/freycinet-sea-kayaking/freycinet-paddle)

http://www.all4adventure.com.au/tours/2hours/ (http://www.all4adventure.com.au/tours/2hours/)

3351 kms in 12 days, wish I didn't have to come home to work!

Theres some good photos in the official lot. Some of me and the missus. In SA I think the guy only took one photo of me. Wrong place at the wrong time I guess.

Sorry Rob thats the deal what happens on tour stays on tour, isn't that right fella's [thumbsup]

You bet.  [roll] [evil]

Welcome home Jukie & Betty.  Great meeting you guys in the flesh.  Hope you had an awesome trip.

yep was awesome and really glad we got to meet and have some fun  [evil]

H'mmm [evil] [evil]


 

[cheeky] [cheeky] [cheeky]

We got home this arvo ... just over 5,000,000m.

It was OK.

It was ok ;)
Obvious understatement [roll]
 
Or would that be 5.000.000.000 mm. ;D
Did you get blisters on your Bum. :-X

no sore bum but a very sore wrist, hmmmm i wonder why [evil]

some pics but not of turismo so no need to worry HEATHER

Mark and I did some hanging around, Me trying to get over some fears

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4383645513_ed8e3dd509_m.jpg)

(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2749/4383642169_a11ae958dc_m.jpg)

here iam getting ready for some night shooting with Bazz

(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2741/4384675438_148248d9d1_o.jpg)

(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2713/4384675348_78589f538b_o.jpg)

Good god! is that thing loaded?

You wouldn't want it be loaded as it looks like she's got an itchy trigger finger.
Think the recoil would probably throw Jukie into the middle of last week.  [cheeky]

nar once rnj got her stance right nothing was safe  [bow_down]

well its no good unloader  [laugh] the neighbors are yoused  to it they get a feed too when we come home  [thumbsup] [bacon]

Jukie is always loaded.

Oh wait, that's not quite what you meant was it.

Yep loaded and ready to go anytime [evil]

fully loaded R N J  [bow_down]

Yes ian just carrying a injury I'd too but ready to go and do anythin

OK so we planned and booked this before I knew the Duc Turismo was on but I'll be down there with a mate and our wives for a week mid march for our own personal Tassie Turismo (13 sleeps!!!)

Any tips....must sees from those that have just returned...live there...been before??

Cheers


Andy

Tip to myself is to return as a proper tourist ... fly down and hire a car ... it is too hard for me to play tourist on a bike ... you can't wander too far with full gear on.

As for the roads just do them all. Most enjoyable (that we did) on the moto I would probably say St. Helens to Scottsdale (thanks Bazz) and the road out to Cradle Mountain ... ohh and climbing up that pass that somebody else will have to name for me on the way to Hobart.

I am sure others will have better advice ... no doubt Bazz (Bikeless) will lead you astray, umm I mean, point you in the right direction.

love too lead any one astray in the redneck state just let me know your plans and will happerly tell you where too go  [laugh] cheers bazz

Do you mean over to Poatina towards Bothwell?

I'd also say just do them all, they're all good.  This time (my 3rd) I discovered some new places.  I would do the run out to Strathgordon again - great scenery.  A run down from Hobart round Kettering over to Cygnet on to Huonville is really nice too.

Not forgetting the west coast too.

Ill show you around too Andy  ;D

It looks like there's going to be an "Encore" to Turismo 2010    http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=35282.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=35282.0)

nobodys mentioned
liena
lementine
gowry park
mersy valley
lake sethana
gunns plains
western creek
parangana road to lake rowallen
upper caster
lyell highway to zeehan highway then murchurchson highway thats one of the best ive ever road that one will stuff a tyre in one day  [thumbsup]

Let me know if you are going to make it to the north west of Tassie, some great rides over this way off the main roads, be happy to catch up or give you directions
Travel well

If you go West - there's a great road from Zeehan to Reece Dam then back onto the main highway near Tullah, it's a bit bumpy but zero traffic & lovely open sweepers. Then from Tullah head towards Queenstown turn left onto an absolutely rocking road that I call Lake Plimsoll Road, don't know it's real name but it's a road that leaves you with a huge grin on your face & a desperate need to do it again & again.....That brings you back to the highway close to Queenstown; just before Queenstown there's a right turn to Strahan, another great road  [moto]

ok i realise that this is a bit late but after ending up at Strathgordon a few time this year the last being with heather and knowing the stigma about Strathgoronds weahter thought that I would post the poem that used to be at what was the information/visitor centre out at the dam wall.
Found it while doing a bit of a clean up!

Drizzle Grizzle

Dirty days hath September,
April, June and November,
February is quite alright,
It only rain from morn till night.
All the rest have thirty one,
Without a single ray of sun,
And if any month had thirty two,
They’d be bloody raining too.

(Poem from the information place at Gordon Dam Wall Tasmania, author unknown)

Very nice Roxy ... sounds like the perfect place to put a ... wait for it ... dam!

If only they had such foresight on the Central Coast ... instead of building one where certain Councillors were able to gain the most from compulsary acquisition (allegedly, of course).