In this blog I want to talk about some of the tools and spares I take with me on a trip. Of course this kit may vary depending on the length of trip I take.
We can't take a whole bike shop full of tools and spares with us as we pedal our way to two wheeled utopia. But going without anything is just bicycle touring suicide. Even on a short trip some basics "must" accompany you on your trip. Now, you don't have to break the bank either, just some basics to give you that little bit of assurance as you ride.
There are those who take a whole myriad of parts, and being that they may be travelling to remote or far off distant lands, it could be maybe justified...but really. I've read where people have taken derailleurs, BB's and bearings. But in the end, if you have your bike serviced regularly, and especially before you leave, a lot of these things can be negated.
Things I take are -
Tubes - I always take at least three tubes with me. I had an instance on one trip that I stuffed my tube stem before leaving in the morning. I only had one spare and used it to get me going. I thought, "She'll be right mate". Needless to say, it wasn't. In the middle of the bush, with a a tube that resembled a tea strainer, no amount of patches were going to fix it. Luckily for me I was only fifty kilometres from home and my wife was able to run me out some the next day when the shops were open. Ah, the joy of learning.
A Puncture Repair Kit - along with tubes I always take a repair kit with me. It comes in handy and saves money along the way. I like to carry both types, the compound glue variety along with the self adhesive kind.
When suffering a puncture it's always quicker to just swap tubes. But at night when camped up, I usually pull out the punctured tube and repair it, giving me that extra spare yet again. Compound patches are also handy for repairing tyres. Last trip I got a piece of metal through my front tyre leaving a decent split in it. A patch on the inside with a decent amount of glue and Bob's ya' knob, problem solved.
The self adhesive patches are good, but not for a long time. They're a handy little bit of gear to just patch and go on the run. Compound glue takes some time to set properly and become air sealed. But the self adhesive variety may be a quick fix, but it's a good idea to eventually repair it with a proper patch, as they give way after a while. It might not happen over night, but it will happen.
A Spare Tyre - whether I go for two days, a week or a month I always take a spare tyre along with me. A lot of people may not think this is necessary, but given some of the roads I travel and areas I embark to, I wouldn't go without one. I have never used my spare yet, and I don't consider this a bad thing. It also doesn't mean that I would go without it. After the tube incident, I'm not taking any chances.
Spare Spokes - spokes are not something I take all the time. They are mainly something I take on a longer trip. Usually for a weekend away, if you break a spoke you can make do, especially with disc brakes. Even V-brakes it's easy to get through by just releasing the brakes. But a broken spoke isn't something that want to really endure on a longer trip. One broken spoke can weaken the rest over time.
I've only had one broken spoke whilst travelling. That was on the old Merida and I was on my way home. The only time my Kona has suffered such an injury is when my youngest knocked it over in the shed from it's stand...never mind that little hump that resembles a grave in my back yard...lol.
Spare Chain - again, not something I would take on a short trip, but on a longer one, I think it's a must.
Missing Links - they are a must for me now even on a day ride. I have always had one, even when being a MAMIL roadie, one was in my saddle bag. The only time I didn't have one with me, I broke a bloody chain. So now one, or two, has pride of place always in my bag.
Cassette/Derailleur Hanger - These are things that I would take on an extensive trip.
Tools I take with me are -
Multi Allen Key Set - I have a Park Toll multi allen key set that is compact and has every size I need. It, like many other things live in my saddle bag and is never removed.
Screw Driver - I have a small screw driver that is a flat driver one end, and a phillips on the other. You just swap it around as necessary. It comes in handy for minor adjustments that may be needed along the way.
Tyre Levers - would you ever ride a bike without them.
A Cheap Leatherman Knockoff - this is just a small Leatherman type multi tool. It has the usual pliers, knife bald, screw driver etc. I think it was around three bucks from Supercheap Auto.
Chain Breaker - funny enough I always carry one with me. Rest assured if you break a chain it won't be where it can just be easily replaced with the missing link without taking at least one link out.
Spoke Spanner - not something I take on short trips, but longer trip...definitely.
Small Shifting Spanner - just something that I like to have.
15 mm Open End Spanner - seeing that most nuts on my bike are this size, it comes in handy for everything from pedals to cones.
Cassette Removal Tool/Chain Whip - on a long trip I decide to take this stuff with me. There is always the chance that you do a cassette in. Seeing that cassettes are the best part of $80.00 - $90.00, it's much cheaper if you can just buy the cassette and change it yourself.
Pump - this needs no reasoning.
So guys, these are the things I take with me on a trip. Yes, they vary depending on the trip but essentially remain a staple.
Your kit may vary. Let me know...
Cheers guys, and as always, ride safe.
Edit :- Along with the above spares I always make the habit of carrying some other essentials. These being insulation and gaffa tape, some cable ties and some spare M5 and M6 allen bolts for racks and cages. Cheers all.
Tuesday, 7 August 2018
Monday, 6 August 2018
New Gear
So I've been a little busy lately purchasing some new gear. Some of my stuff was old and needed replacing, some was just to add to my kit and some was just to try.
My old li'l Lenovo G50 Laptop was really struggling with all the paces I was putting it through. Plus it was having issues like reading USB drives, SD cards and my much loved Samsung S9.
I'll still keep it, it'll get a service, then come in handy to take away on road trips etc. It's no good for bike trips, the 15" screen is too big to squeeze into a pannier. That's what I have my little Samsung A8 Tablet with wireless keyboard coupled to it.
I ended up purchasing a new desktop with larger monitor this time. An Acer Nitro 50 with HP 27" monitor will help, and has helped, edit videos more efficiently. It's much better looking at a larger screen when it comes to editing. It's not top of the range but is working well thus far. I'm still learning to use it, you know, which way to hold your tongue etc.
Along with the new computer I decided to do an upgrade on my editing software. Up to Power Director 16 from 15. Not alot of difference but appears to help with the larger resolution videos...or maybe it's the computer...lol
One purchase I am so loving and will continue is an upgrade in camera equipment. I am slowly getting there. I still love my Nikon D3100 DSLR but it was far too big to take touring. In the interim I was sufficing with the combination of my then Samsung S7 a little Nikon Coolpix L31. The little L31 was pretty average and especially once a change of zoom was entered.
I have now purchased a new Sony Cybershot DSC HX90V, and I have to say..."Wow. What a little beauty".
Those who know me know that this upgrade has taken some time. I was origiannly looking at the Sony A 5000, but in the end decided that I need two lenses to achieve the zoom I want, especially for stills. I do have my S9 but find the 8 x zoom lens gets a little grainy when maxed out.
The HX90 is perfect for my needs. Extremely compact, no extra lenses and super good in the quality stakes. OK, admittedly it's no RX100, but great quality in my budget range.
I upgraded my action camera some months ago and have found the Sony HDR AS50 a great little additive to my kit. Yes, I know the whole world screams Go Pro, but not me, and honestly Sony has caught up with, and possibly overtaken the Go Pro, in my opinion.
The AS50, being the base model is a great start up of a fantastic line of action cameras.
I have some new things on the way from Amazon and Wish. As mentioned before I am waiting on a little micro SQ11 action camera. This is no an upgrade but for AUD$12.00 I thought it might make a little inconspicuous helmet cam, or handlebar mounted selfie cam.
Another Wish item is a dead cat for my lavelier mic. I tried to do a cycling vlog the other day but where I had my mic mounted it caught the wind and every other sound except my voice. So, needless to say no cycling vlog. This is a real bummer as I have wanted to start these for a while, and now with my knee operation, I may have missed the boat for a few weeks.
In the Amazon parcels there is, what turned up today, a helmet mounted mirror. I love my little bar mount but when touring loaded, the panniers block my rear vision. The helmet mount may help act a combination mic mount as well.
I also have a new bike horn coming. A Hidream Loud Horn. That should stir up the headphone wearing pedestrians, and the phone gawking motorists..lol
I have a new top tube coming as well. I had a good one that served me well. Unfortunately with the change of phone to the somewhat larger Samsung S9, it was a squeeze. Actually, a squeeze to the point that the stitching tore on the phone sleeve. The one coming to replace it is only a $30.00 one, but has added side pockets, like little panniers. I thought this would be great for camera storage.
I'll do a video on all these when I get all the packages in and do a combined What's In The Box.
Anyway, there's all my updates and upgrades. Keep an eye on my YouTube channel for reviews and reveals, being on crutches I'll have plenty of time to vlog...lol
Cheers guys, and as always, ride safe.
My old li'l Lenovo G50 Laptop was really struggling with all the paces I was putting it through. Plus it was having issues like reading USB drives, SD cards and my much loved Samsung S9.
I'll still keep it, it'll get a service, then come in handy to take away on road trips etc. It's no good for bike trips, the 15" screen is too big to squeeze into a pannier. That's what I have my little Samsung A8 Tablet with wireless keyboard coupled to it.
I ended up purchasing a new desktop with larger monitor this time. An Acer Nitro 50 with HP 27" monitor will help, and has helped, edit videos more efficiently. It's much better looking at a larger screen when it comes to editing. It's not top of the range but is working well thus far. I'm still learning to use it, you know, which way to hold your tongue etc.
Along with the new computer I decided to do an upgrade on my editing software. Up to Power Director 16 from 15. Not alot of difference but appears to help with the larger resolution videos...or maybe it's the computer...lol
One purchase I am so loving and will continue is an upgrade in camera equipment. I am slowly getting there. I still love my Nikon D3100 DSLR but it was far too big to take touring. In the interim I was sufficing with the combination of my then Samsung S7 a little Nikon Coolpix L31. The little L31 was pretty average and especially once a change of zoom was entered.
I have now purchased a new Sony Cybershot DSC HX90V, and I have to say..."Wow. What a little beauty".
Those who know me know that this upgrade has taken some time. I was origiannly looking at the Sony A 5000, but in the end decided that I need two lenses to achieve the zoom I want, especially for stills. I do have my S9 but find the 8 x zoom lens gets a little grainy when maxed out.
The HX90 is perfect for my needs. Extremely compact, no extra lenses and super good in the quality stakes. OK, admittedly it's no RX100, but great quality in my budget range.
I upgraded my action camera some months ago and have found the Sony HDR AS50 a great little additive to my kit. Yes, I know the whole world screams Go Pro, but not me, and honestly Sony has caught up with, and possibly overtaken the Go Pro, in my opinion.
The AS50, being the base model is a great start up of a fantastic line of action cameras.
I have some new things on the way from Amazon and Wish. As mentioned before I am waiting on a little micro SQ11 action camera. This is no an upgrade but for AUD$12.00 I thought it might make a little inconspicuous helmet cam, or handlebar mounted selfie cam.
Another Wish item is a dead cat for my lavelier mic. I tried to do a cycling vlog the other day but where I had my mic mounted it caught the wind and every other sound except my voice. So, needless to say no cycling vlog. This is a real bummer as I have wanted to start these for a while, and now with my knee operation, I may have missed the boat for a few weeks.
In the Amazon parcels there is, what turned up today, a helmet mounted mirror. I love my little bar mount but when touring loaded, the panniers block my rear vision. The helmet mount may help act a combination mic mount as well.
I also have a new bike horn coming. A Hidream Loud Horn. That should stir up the headphone wearing pedestrians, and the phone gawking motorists..lol
I have a new top tube coming as well. I had a good one that served me well. Unfortunately with the change of phone to the somewhat larger Samsung S9, it was a squeeze. Actually, a squeeze to the point that the stitching tore on the phone sleeve. The one coming to replace it is only a $30.00 one, but has added side pockets, like little panniers. I thought this would be great for camera storage.
I'll do a video on all these when I get all the packages in and do a combined What's In The Box.
Anyway, there's all my updates and upgrades. Keep an eye on my YouTube channel for reviews and reveals, being on crutches I'll have plenty of time to vlog...lol
Cheers guys, and as always, ride safe.
Sunday, 29 July 2018
The Simplest Things In Life!
In my drafts I have had a blog waiting to be posted, ranting about how frustrated I am at the moment. It's not fun not being able to do the things you want, especially the simple things like ride.
Today the drought broke. After weeks of endless pain, the flu (which is still lurking), carcinomas being removed, and just a plain lack of any motivation at all, I finally got out on the bike.
Yes, it is the simple things in life that are often the best...and I know I have no real right to complain as there are many people worse off than me. But I am not associated with them, I am in my own bubble with my own problems.
I had almost forgotten how freeing it is to be on your bike. It is this feeling that has kept me sane, anchored to the real world. My bike has been my solace, my rock, my escape and my reset. Not being able to ride is like a musician not being able to play, a dancer not being able to dance. The worst thing about it all is that it has been avoidable. I have let my passion sit on the shelf collecting dust.
Whilst I am the first to say that I have had my fair share of excuses, and justified ones at that, I have also not pushed the envelope. I have been complacent in letting myself slide, letting rust replace shine, I have become a silt laden stream that once ran crystal clear.
OK, enough of the downer... Like I said it was exuberant to get get out on the pedal powered mistress once again. I have to say I absolutely fell head over heels in love with my Kona once again today. I had forgotten how soft she was, how responsive and how pleasurable. Ahhh! What a mistress.
It was only a short twenty something kilometer ride, and considering how much I haven't ridden I surprised myself. I suppose it's just like riding a bike...lol.
It was a relatively flat ride out of Bundaberg past the airport and onto the Ring Road. I didn't have any particular plan, just a ride with the cameras recording and having a chat as I was pedaling along.
Once on the Ring Road I headed East and was reminded as to how comfortable the Kona was on a rough surface. It is for this I bought her. The steel frame, the 40 mm tyres and the Brooks B17 all worked together to take away the bumps that the side of this road offer up.
I continued down the Ring Road and once at Barolin St I headed towards town. It was a nice change riding up this section of road now with a bike lane. Normally you would compete with the usual hoards of inconsiderate motorists as there was not much shoulder. What shoulder there was was usually broken up or in disrepair.
I was going to head south down Thabeban Rd but feeling good I continued up to Simms Rd and rode down along it's entire length. Once at the end I headed up Elliott Heads Rd and zig-zagged my way up to Coral Isles' Crit Track.
After a lap for old times sake I headed up to the main street and headed back towards home. The main street was quiet being a Sunday evening. Usually when you rise down it you get a few beeps of a horn. I ride down the middle whether motorists like it or nor. The main street's parking arrangement is nose in parking. That means you have cars reversing out into traffic. They don't look for a cyclist so riding close to either side of the lane is a no no. Down the middle all the way...
The twenty two kilometers were coming to a close. A smile on my face, a druggy with his fix, I was a happy soul.
No to clear off some of that rust and let the shine shine through.
Cheers guys, and as always, ride safe.
Today the drought broke. After weeks of endless pain, the flu (which is still lurking), carcinomas being removed, and just a plain lack of any motivation at all, I finally got out on the bike.
Yes, it is the simple things in life that are often the best...and I know I have no real right to complain as there are many people worse off than me. But I am not associated with them, I am in my own bubble with my own problems.
I had almost forgotten how freeing it is to be on your bike. It is this feeling that has kept me sane, anchored to the real world. My bike has been my solace, my rock, my escape and my reset. Not being able to ride is like a musician not being able to play, a dancer not being able to dance. The worst thing about it all is that it has been avoidable. I have let my passion sit on the shelf collecting dust.
Whilst I am the first to say that I have had my fair share of excuses, and justified ones at that, I have also not pushed the envelope. I have been complacent in letting myself slide, letting rust replace shine, I have become a silt laden stream that once ran crystal clear.
OK, enough of the downer... Like I said it was exuberant to get get out on the pedal powered mistress once again. I have to say I absolutely fell head over heels in love with my Kona once again today. I had forgotten how soft she was, how responsive and how pleasurable. Ahhh! What a mistress.
It was only a short twenty something kilometer ride, and considering how much I haven't ridden I surprised myself. I suppose it's just like riding a bike...lol.
It was a relatively flat ride out of Bundaberg past the airport and onto the Ring Road. I didn't have any particular plan, just a ride with the cameras recording and having a chat as I was pedaling along.
Once on the Ring Road I headed East and was reminded as to how comfortable the Kona was on a rough surface. It is for this I bought her. The steel frame, the 40 mm tyres and the Brooks B17 all worked together to take away the bumps that the side of this road offer up.
I continued down the Ring Road and once at Barolin St I headed towards town. It was a nice change riding up this section of road now with a bike lane. Normally you would compete with the usual hoards of inconsiderate motorists as there was not much shoulder. What shoulder there was was usually broken up or in disrepair.
I was going to head south down Thabeban Rd but feeling good I continued up to Simms Rd and rode down along it's entire length. Once at the end I headed up Elliott Heads Rd and zig-zagged my way up to Coral Isles' Crit Track.
After a lap for old times sake I headed up to the main street and headed back towards home. The main street was quiet being a Sunday evening. Usually when you rise down it you get a few beeps of a horn. I ride down the middle whether motorists like it or nor. The main street's parking arrangement is nose in parking. That means you have cars reversing out into traffic. They don't look for a cyclist so riding close to either side of the lane is a no no. Down the middle all the way...
The twenty two kilometers were coming to a close. A smile on my face, a druggy with his fix, I was a happy soul.
No to clear off some of that rust and let the shine shine through.
Cheers guys, and as always, ride safe.
Friday, 20 July 2018
Torn Medial Meniscus...Ouch!!!
For the past several months I have been trying to get back onto the bike. It seems that no matter how hard I try something keeps raising it's ugly head to get in the way.
I haven't been blogging much as I haven't been riding much, so it appears the squelching of one thing I love effects another, blogging. I've let that happen, no-one else, me and me alone. Since taking up cycling again several years ago, blogging has become as much a part of that joy as the bike itself.
Anyway, I'm planning to stop that...
I have been diagnosed with some relatively serious knee complaints. The first being the medial meniscus on my right knee. Along with that, I have ligament strain, fluid on the knee and significant arthritic degeneration.
Some months ago I noticed knee pain, and after a day on the ride on mower at work, or even a short drive in the car (which wasn't often) significant pain arose. It made it difficult to walk, but appeared to settle over night.
After some weeks of the on and off nature of the pain I ended up in excruciating pain. I had just started to do some relief work at a new school, and the more time went on, the worse the pain became.
Part of my primary job is only a few kilometers away and although I had been able to manage the short ride, it was difficult to say the least.
I have been wanting to do some more exploring on the bike, just day trips, with the odd weekend away thrown in for good measure. But it hasn't seemed to happen. As the knee has settled and I have had the occasional fifteen or so kilometer ride, I just haven't seemed to get things in motion.
The relief job I was doing has now become permanent and being twenty kilometers from home, and being a reasonably flat course, seemed to be the perfect opportunity to ride, vlog and enjoy my pedal powered beauty once again.
Sounds great doesn't it? Well, woe is me, I've ended up with a bloody bad case of man flu, yes man flu...and we all know how bad that can be. Stay with me, I'm painting the picture for you...
Ah well, it's just the flu, I'll get over it in a couple for days and start from there. This friggin' thing has hung around for nigh on three weeks now. Just after starting the new job, I've had to have nearly two weeks off work. OK, it's a little worse than I first thought, it'll end and I'll start from there.
Right, let's get back to the knee. In all this I had been referred to an Orthopedic Specialist by my G.P. Last Friday I met with him and now in a month I will be on the table and under the knife getting the knee seen to. Even though that is great news, and it is, it now seems that I will be off work for six weeks and on crutches for the first two. Along with this, there will be no riding for this six week period, and possibly longer, pending the recovery process. I am not allowed to drive for this period either, which doesn't trouble me in the slightest, as we all know how much I hate that.
So the plan now...just get over this lurgy first, which will hopefully be by the weekend. I am back at work, but only just. Come Sunday I am hoping to go for a light thirty or so kilometers and start on my long time planned cycling vlog. So keep an eye on my YouTube channel for that.
My weight has increased way too much and too fast. That coupled with my past life as a truck driver has taken it's toll on my body. Once the weight was gone, the symptoms were as well.
I had the left knee done many years ago and have no problems since, so this is good news. Other good news is that the right knee will follow suit. It won't be perfect, but will be better. Hey, if can get me back on my bike, and get doing some hiking again, I'm all for it.
More good news is that I have escaped a full knee replacement. Although it is probably necessary, at 55 years of age the Doc wants to hold of on it for a while. He hopes to clean the area up enough to give me another five years at least. It will be inevitable, but the bullet has been dodged temporarily.
Anyway, that is the update. I've decided that just because the cycling is on restricted access doesn't mean the blogging has to be as well. I have plenty of gear I can review, and other shit I can ramble on about if your interested...
Let's leave it there for this one...
Cheers all, and as always, ride safe.
I haven't been blogging much as I haven't been riding much, so it appears the squelching of one thing I love effects another, blogging. I've let that happen, no-one else, me and me alone. Since taking up cycling again several years ago, blogging has become as much a part of that joy as the bike itself.
Anyway, I'm planning to stop that...
I have been diagnosed with some relatively serious knee complaints. The first being the medial meniscus on my right knee. Along with that, I have ligament strain, fluid on the knee and significant arthritic degeneration.
Some months ago I noticed knee pain, and after a day on the ride on mower at work, or even a short drive in the car (which wasn't often) significant pain arose. It made it difficult to walk, but appeared to settle over night.
After some weeks of the on and off nature of the pain I ended up in excruciating pain. I had just started to do some relief work at a new school, and the more time went on, the worse the pain became.
Part of my primary job is only a few kilometers away and although I had been able to manage the short ride, it was difficult to say the least.
I have been wanting to do some more exploring on the bike, just day trips, with the odd weekend away thrown in for good measure. But it hasn't seemed to happen. As the knee has settled and I have had the occasional fifteen or so kilometer ride, I just haven't seemed to get things in motion.
The relief job I was doing has now become permanent and being twenty kilometers from home, and being a reasonably flat course, seemed to be the perfect opportunity to ride, vlog and enjoy my pedal powered beauty once again.
Sounds great doesn't it? Well, woe is me, I've ended up with a bloody bad case of man flu, yes man flu...and we all know how bad that can be. Stay with me, I'm painting the picture for you...
Ah well, it's just the flu, I'll get over it in a couple for days and start from there. This friggin' thing has hung around for nigh on three weeks now. Just after starting the new job, I've had to have nearly two weeks off work. OK, it's a little worse than I first thought, it'll end and I'll start from there.
Right, let's get back to the knee. In all this I had been referred to an Orthopedic Specialist by my G.P. Last Friday I met with him and now in a month I will be on the table and under the knife getting the knee seen to. Even though that is great news, and it is, it now seems that I will be off work for six weeks and on crutches for the first two. Along with this, there will be no riding for this six week period, and possibly longer, pending the recovery process. I am not allowed to drive for this period either, which doesn't trouble me in the slightest, as we all know how much I hate that.
So the plan now...just get over this lurgy first, which will hopefully be by the weekend. I am back at work, but only just. Come Sunday I am hoping to go for a light thirty or so kilometers and start on my long time planned cycling vlog. So keep an eye on my YouTube channel for that.
My weight has increased way too much and too fast. That coupled with my past life as a truck driver has taken it's toll on my body. Once the weight was gone, the symptoms were as well.
I had the left knee done many years ago and have no problems since, so this is good news. Other good news is that the right knee will follow suit. It won't be perfect, but will be better. Hey, if can get me back on my bike, and get doing some hiking again, I'm all for it.
More good news is that I have escaped a full knee replacement. Although it is probably necessary, at 55 years of age the Doc wants to hold of on it for a while. He hopes to clean the area up enough to give me another five years at least. It will be inevitable, but the bullet has been dodged temporarily.
Anyway, that is the update. I've decided that just because the cycling is on restricted access doesn't mean the blogging has to be as well. I have plenty of gear I can review, and other shit I can ramble on about if your interested...
Let's leave it there for this one...
Cheers all, and as always, ride safe.
Tuesday, 17 July 2018
Kinkuna Bush Camping
Man o man I need to get my head back into blogging mode. I'll get there eventually. I am trying to get back on the bike but unfortunately osteo arthritis of the right need is hindering a lot of things, like bike trips and hiking trips I have planned. It's a chore just getting to work for the day.
Any way, let's get to the better stuff.
Kinkuna Beach Camping Area is a section of the Burrum National Park on Queensland's east coast south east of Bundaberg. I had driven through it a few times (four wheel drive only), but had never camped there. This is something that I should have done long ago. The camping sites are only approximately twenty kilometers from my front door, so close.
My plan was to load up the old mountain bike, Frankenstein, with a tag along kiddies trailer full of gear. Taking a lot of my normal gear, I was going to take a three man tent with me, an esky (cooler) and some fishing gear. The larger tent was for just a little extra room, and the esky was to keep some meats, and of course, beers cold.
This wasn't going to be a bike trip parse, but more just a few days away, fishing and just relaxing.
After several attempts to load the tiny trailer with the mountain of gear I had, I decided to wuss out and get my wife to drive me out. Ok, ok, this was fine, it was just to get away anyway.
With this decision made I opted to ditch the tent and sleeping mat etc, and take one of the new swags I had purchased. The swag was an Adventure Kings Big Daddy Deluxe that I bought from The Four Wheel Drive Super Center some months prior. It is a double swag that had never been used, and had only ever been set up once for purpose of weathering/seasoning. This became the perfect opportunity to check it out.
Well with the swag strapped to the roof racks and the boot full, off I set. Heading South East from Bundaberg it wasn't long before we hit the turn off. Once at the entrance to park the road turned into it's sandy entrance. I didn't worry about airing down the tyres, as the entrance only has sandy patches along it's driveway.
Closer to the camping sites the track becomes sand again. Although soft on top it was still relatively hard packed underneath, so high range was sufficient. I had no intentions of beach driving this time. This section is a popular four wheel drive mecca, but as it was a week day, there was hardly anyone in sight, the perfect place to camp.
It didn't take long to find a suitable spot and get set up, virtually on the beach itself. With the calm Westerly wind the water was like glass. After setting up I drove my wife the five kilometers back to the main entrance. She was a bit nervous about the sandy patches. Walking back to the camp site a young couple picked me up and dropped me back and with the night air setting in, it was time to look at getting a camp fire prepared. One thing I decided to take was my BBQ cook/grill plate that had never been used, a great idea considering my first night's thick and juicy sirloin.
The sun started to set, the fire lit, and the slight westerly breeze changed to a north easterly gust. Cooking my steak was a little difficult as the wind kept blowing any form of heat out from under my plate. I rectified this the following morning after a fish with some old bricks and logs that I found lying around.
It was time to just settle back, eat some dinner and enjoy a cold beer.
The fire nice and amply helped the serenity sink in. The strong gusts eased, a good hot coffee and it was nearly time for bed in the new swag. The great thing about the double swag is that the canvas entrance flaps can be rolled back, exposing the millions of stars that sit above me. Who needs five star accommodation when one can have a million stars. With the sound of the waves crashing against the shoreline it didn't take long to wander off to the land of Nod.
Although it wasn't cold it did cool off through the night, but pulling the sleeping bag up over my ears fixed this.
The sun's rays the following morning wee brutal to say the least. Let me say that I didn't sleep in. With only the midgie mesh of the swag separating me from the outside world, the sun's brightness started stabbing me at first light as it appeared over the horizon.
That was ok though, up early and the fishing rods that had been set the night before were in hand and I was off to the beach. It was a beautifully calm day, no wind at all meant the water was like glass. Ideal for throwing out some some soft plastics in the hope for a tasty morsel...
Ah well, no luck, so it was back up the shallow dune to start breakfast. The fireplace reconstructed, the fire lit, bacon and eggs were on the barbie plate and the coffee was hot and being consumed.
It was now Thursday, the day after Anzac Day, the camping area still relatively deserted the beach was virtually all mine, and mine alone. There's just something that is so ahhh when camping like this. I suppose that's why I like bicycle touring so much, as well as remote camping...the solitude.
Kinkuna is truly a magnificent place, and I still can't believe that I haven't been camping here before...especially so close to home. The sad thing is because it's a National Park I can't take my four-legged dish licker with me. Wilson would have loved it, although he is a big sook when it comes to waves, or water in general really.
After breaky I grabbed the new Sony Action Camera, a HDR AS50 to try out as a vlogging camera, and headed north up the beach. The warm, but not hot, sun and a gentle westerly now forming made it perfect. I don't know for how long I walked, I didn't keep track of time, time is irrelevant in situations such as these. By the way, the little Sony preformed well.
I got back to my campsite and sat. The water was way out at low tide and I saw a nice channel forming out along the beach. It was time to try the lighter gear. Down the beach I headed with my old and favourite Shimano combo. A plastic popper on top and calm water was just perfect. But perfect doesn't always help you catch fish. In the end a small flathead was hooked and seeing size matters, it lived too grow a little larger. I really don't care about catching anything. Fishing to me is like cycling, it's just about the getting out there and clearing the mind.
Another day was on the close and the fire was lit again, and a beer was enjoyed. There is something about a fire that soothes the soul and help you forget and knees the mind still and quiet. The sun setting, the stars lighting up the sky one by one, why would you want to be anywhere else?
A slight breeze, the crackling of the fire and the crashing of the waves on the beach was a recipe of beauty, all combining to give life that little extra meaning. Soon it was time for bed.
On the morning of the first day the swag had it's fair share of sand inside that had worked it's way in. Even though I shook it out, there had seem to be another compilation of the stuff this night as well. I went to bed and laid there flicking the grains this way and that to try and get some comfort. Again the swag flaps were rolled up with only the midgie (no-see-um) mesh protecting me from what elements may be.
After a couple of strong gusts of wind I realised what was causing it. It wasn't me walking it in as I first thought. It appears that midgie mesh is midgie (sandfly) proof, but not sand proof. With the leaving of the flaps open, it was apparent that it was left open to blow in the sand.
Up I got, unzipped everything, pulled out sleeping bag and mattress and shook it all of again. After returning everything to it's rightful place I closed the flaps down. You know what? It worked like a charm. With the wind coming from the south-west again I was able to suffice with the rear flap closed. It was a little cooler this night, so no worries about over heating.
The morning seemed to come too quickly after a good night's sleep. This morning wasn't as kind. The wind had moved around the the south-east and had cause a decent chop on the water. I did try a little fishing, but as I was only using light gear it was difficult casting into the wing. I switched gear and wend for my larger rod, and heavier tackle. It didn't help me much, as I always say, "I don't even catch a cold when I go fishing"...lol.
It was a time to kick back and just relax. I went for another walk, ate some, drank some, went for another walk...repeat. It's great when you go like this, no plan, no have to's, no need to's, just you and the moment at hand. I enjoyed the simpleness of my camping kit as well, the swag, minimum gear, a fire pit and a plate to sit over it. No need for massive cleaning up duties, just set and forget.
I met a nice young couple that were doing the rounds. The one thing I had forgotten was a roll of toilet paper, and we all know there's nothing worse than cacky-tacky bum...think about it...
Anyway, back to the nice young couple, they were nice enough to leave me a full roll of toilet paper, and that my friends was badly needed at the time...phew, crisis averted.
After they left the afternoon was setting in. It was Friday by now, so the obvious weekenders were arriving. Whilst the majority were steady paced, quiet and thoughtful of others, the weekend also brought out the morons who don't give a shit. It was sweet justice seeing a couple of utes that were tearing up the track get bogged as soon as they hit the beach...as the tide was rolling in. It was a case, it seemed, of all the gear and no idea.
It settled as dark drew closer, and yet again I had a blazing fire, snags and patties on the plate and was sitting back enjoying a cold ale and the serenity all over again. This was my last night so I stayed up later than usual. It's a tradition of mine. On the last night of every camp I sit up later (although I was out of beer) enjoying a beverage and stoking the fire higher than usual.
Unfortunately, segments of my evening serenity were blind sided by late arrivals and the morons I suffered earlier driving out with driving lights and spot lights blazing, not only to the night, but into my friggin' camp site as well. I went to bed around 11.00 p.m. and even after lights out there were still people arriving and driving about...not happy Jan. I get a little touchy when my serenity is messes with. Although I should have expected this, it's just that I am used to camping in places where this no, or little else is around. I drew ten deep breaths and ended up asleep never to be disturbed again.
The morning came and I awoke, to yet again, the sound of four-wheel-drives arriving and running up the beach. Hey, don't get me wrong, I love four-wheel-drives, I have one. I just don't always like the drivers behind the wheel. Yes, grumpy old bum this morning, I hadn't had my coffee yet.
The morning dragged on, I chatted with a lot more people as I was packing up somewhat. My wife was coming out to pick me up this morning and I wanted to be a little prepared. Although I have to admit, I wasn't in a hurry. Morons and all, I wasn't in a hurry to leave.
My wife arrived just before lunch and the kids hit the beach as quickly as they hit the ground...running. Some bar-b-queable goodies were brought out, so a lunch time barby fire was lit as we packed the rest of my gear.
In the end an inevitable, unavoidable, but reluctant end came to my weekend (or should I say) my mid-week away. It was a remarkable place so close to home, and although it appears to be better mid-week than weekend, I still have to say it'd be a great place to visit again.
I will be back...
Cheers all, and as always, ride safe.
Any way, let's get to the better stuff.
Kinkuna Beach Camping Area is a section of the Burrum National Park on Queensland's east coast south east of Bundaberg. I had driven through it a few times (four wheel drive only), but had never camped there. This is something that I should have done long ago. The camping sites are only approximately twenty kilometers from my front door, so close.
My plan was to load up the old mountain bike, Frankenstein, with a tag along kiddies trailer full of gear. Taking a lot of my normal gear, I was going to take a three man tent with me, an esky (cooler) and some fishing gear. The larger tent was for just a little extra room, and the esky was to keep some meats, and of course, beers cold.
This wasn't going to be a bike trip parse, but more just a few days away, fishing and just relaxing.
After several attempts to load the tiny trailer with the mountain of gear I had, I decided to wuss out and get my wife to drive me out. Ok, ok, this was fine, it was just to get away anyway.
With this decision made I opted to ditch the tent and sleeping mat etc, and take one of the new swags I had purchased. The swag was an Adventure Kings Big Daddy Deluxe that I bought from The Four Wheel Drive Super Center some months prior. It is a double swag that had never been used, and had only ever been set up once for purpose of weathering/seasoning. This became the perfect opportunity to check it out.
Well with the swag strapped to the roof racks and the boot full, off I set. Heading South East from Bundaberg it wasn't long before we hit the turn off. Once at the entrance to park the road turned into it's sandy entrance. I didn't worry about airing down the tyres, as the entrance only has sandy patches along it's driveway.
Closer to the camping sites the track becomes sand again. Although soft on top it was still relatively hard packed underneath, so high range was sufficient. I had no intentions of beach driving this time. This section is a popular four wheel drive mecca, but as it was a week day, there was hardly anyone in sight, the perfect place to camp.
It didn't take long to find a suitable spot and get set up, virtually on the beach itself. With the calm Westerly wind the water was like glass. After setting up I drove my wife the five kilometers back to the main entrance. She was a bit nervous about the sandy patches. Walking back to the camp site a young couple picked me up and dropped me back and with the night air setting in, it was time to look at getting a camp fire prepared. One thing I decided to take was my BBQ cook/grill plate that had never been used, a great idea considering my first night's thick and juicy sirloin.
The sun started to set, the fire lit, and the slight westerly breeze changed to a north easterly gust. Cooking my steak was a little difficult as the wind kept blowing any form of heat out from under my plate. I rectified this the following morning after a fish with some old bricks and logs that I found lying around.
It was time to just settle back, eat some dinner and enjoy a cold beer.
The fire nice and amply helped the serenity sink in. The strong gusts eased, a good hot coffee and it was nearly time for bed in the new swag. The great thing about the double swag is that the canvas entrance flaps can be rolled back, exposing the millions of stars that sit above me. Who needs five star accommodation when one can have a million stars. With the sound of the waves crashing against the shoreline it didn't take long to wander off to the land of Nod.
Although it wasn't cold it did cool off through the night, but pulling the sleeping bag up over my ears fixed this.
The sun's rays the following morning wee brutal to say the least. Let me say that I didn't sleep in. With only the midgie mesh of the swag separating me from the outside world, the sun's brightness started stabbing me at first light as it appeared over the horizon.
That was ok though, up early and the fishing rods that had been set the night before were in hand and I was off to the beach. It was a beautifully calm day, no wind at all meant the water was like glass. Ideal for throwing out some some soft plastics in the hope for a tasty morsel...
Ah well, no luck, so it was back up the shallow dune to start breakfast. The fireplace reconstructed, the fire lit, bacon and eggs were on the barbie plate and the coffee was hot and being consumed.
It was now Thursday, the day after Anzac Day, the camping area still relatively deserted the beach was virtually all mine, and mine alone. There's just something that is so ahhh when camping like this. I suppose that's why I like bicycle touring so much, as well as remote camping...the solitude.
Kinkuna is truly a magnificent place, and I still can't believe that I haven't been camping here before...especially so close to home. The sad thing is because it's a National Park I can't take my four-legged dish licker with me. Wilson would have loved it, although he is a big sook when it comes to waves, or water in general really.
After breaky I grabbed the new Sony Action Camera, a HDR AS50 to try out as a vlogging camera, and headed north up the beach. The warm, but not hot, sun and a gentle westerly now forming made it perfect. I don't know for how long I walked, I didn't keep track of time, time is irrelevant in situations such as these. By the way, the little Sony preformed well.
I got back to my campsite and sat. The water was way out at low tide and I saw a nice channel forming out along the beach. It was time to try the lighter gear. Down the beach I headed with my old and favourite Shimano combo. A plastic popper on top and calm water was just perfect. But perfect doesn't always help you catch fish. In the end a small flathead was hooked and seeing size matters, it lived too grow a little larger. I really don't care about catching anything. Fishing to me is like cycling, it's just about the getting out there and clearing the mind.
Another day was on the close and the fire was lit again, and a beer was enjoyed. There is something about a fire that soothes the soul and help you forget and knees the mind still and quiet. The sun setting, the stars lighting up the sky one by one, why would you want to be anywhere else?
A slight breeze, the crackling of the fire and the crashing of the waves on the beach was a recipe of beauty, all combining to give life that little extra meaning. Soon it was time for bed.
On the morning of the first day the swag had it's fair share of sand inside that had worked it's way in. Even though I shook it out, there had seem to be another compilation of the stuff this night as well. I went to bed and laid there flicking the grains this way and that to try and get some comfort. Again the swag flaps were rolled up with only the midgie (no-see-um) mesh protecting me from what elements may be.
After a couple of strong gusts of wind I realised what was causing it. It wasn't me walking it in as I first thought. It appears that midgie mesh is midgie (sandfly) proof, but not sand proof. With the leaving of the flaps open, it was apparent that it was left open to blow in the sand.
Up I got, unzipped everything, pulled out sleeping bag and mattress and shook it all of again. After returning everything to it's rightful place I closed the flaps down. You know what? It worked like a charm. With the wind coming from the south-west again I was able to suffice with the rear flap closed. It was a little cooler this night, so no worries about over heating.
The morning seemed to come too quickly after a good night's sleep. This morning wasn't as kind. The wind had moved around the the south-east and had cause a decent chop on the water. I did try a little fishing, but as I was only using light gear it was difficult casting into the wing. I switched gear and wend for my larger rod, and heavier tackle. It didn't help me much, as I always say, "I don't even catch a cold when I go fishing"...lol.
It was a time to kick back and just relax. I went for another walk, ate some, drank some, went for another walk...repeat. It's great when you go like this, no plan, no have to's, no need to's, just you and the moment at hand. I enjoyed the simpleness of my camping kit as well, the swag, minimum gear, a fire pit and a plate to sit over it. No need for massive cleaning up duties, just set and forget.
I met a nice young couple that were doing the rounds. The one thing I had forgotten was a roll of toilet paper, and we all know there's nothing worse than cacky-tacky bum...think about it...
Anyway, back to the nice young couple, they were nice enough to leave me a full roll of toilet paper, and that my friends was badly needed at the time...phew, crisis averted.
After they left the afternoon was setting in. It was Friday by now, so the obvious weekenders were arriving. Whilst the majority were steady paced, quiet and thoughtful of others, the weekend also brought out the morons who don't give a shit. It was sweet justice seeing a couple of utes that were tearing up the track get bogged as soon as they hit the beach...as the tide was rolling in. It was a case, it seemed, of all the gear and no idea.
It settled as dark drew closer, and yet again I had a blazing fire, snags and patties on the plate and was sitting back enjoying a cold ale and the serenity all over again. This was my last night so I stayed up later than usual. It's a tradition of mine. On the last night of every camp I sit up later (although I was out of beer) enjoying a beverage and stoking the fire higher than usual.
Unfortunately, segments of my evening serenity were blind sided by late arrivals and the morons I suffered earlier driving out with driving lights and spot lights blazing, not only to the night, but into my friggin' camp site as well. I went to bed around 11.00 p.m. and even after lights out there were still people arriving and driving about...not happy Jan. I get a little touchy when my serenity is messes with. Although I should have expected this, it's just that I am used to camping in places where this no, or little else is around. I drew ten deep breaths and ended up asleep never to be disturbed again.
The morning came and I awoke, to yet again, the sound of four-wheel-drives arriving and running up the beach. Hey, don't get me wrong, I love four-wheel-drives, I have one. I just don't always like the drivers behind the wheel. Yes, grumpy old bum this morning, I hadn't had my coffee yet.
The morning dragged on, I chatted with a lot more people as I was packing up somewhat. My wife was coming out to pick me up this morning and I wanted to be a little prepared. Although I have to admit, I wasn't in a hurry. Morons and all, I wasn't in a hurry to leave.
My wife arrived just before lunch and the kids hit the beach as quickly as they hit the ground...running. Some bar-b-queable goodies were brought out, so a lunch time barby fire was lit as we packed the rest of my gear.
In the end an inevitable, unavoidable, but reluctant end came to my weekend (or should I say) my mid-week away. It was a remarkable place so close to home, and although it appears to be better mid-week than weekend, I still have to say it'd be a great place to visit again.
I will be back...
Cheers all, and as always, ride safe.
Saturday, 14 April 2018
Same Ol' Same Ol'
Nothing much has been happening in the Old Bumosphere of joy at late. The front and side yards are finally done. The rear yard is...well...a work still in progress. It's half done if that is any consolation.
A broken spoke still awaits repair on the Sutra, which I hope to get to attend to tomorrow. I'm thinking of videoing this one as a kind of home fix it.
Even though I am, by no means, a professional bike mechanic, I do do a lot of repairs and maintenance myself. I think it is important as a cyclist to be able to accomplish basic repairs on your own, especially if you are touring.
Most of my servicing and repairs such as replacing cassettes, chains, brakes along with derailleur adjustments are all part of my process. I have a good friend who is a bike mechanic for the rest. His name is Jack and he runs a business called, of all names...Dr Bike. He has always done a fantastic job for me, and has always been reasonable on price. No, no mates rates, I don't expect it, he just does a good affordable job for everyone. He mainly does a thorough check over for me prior to a trip, or just a good look over whenever. Hey, I'm far from perfect...it never hurts to get a second, more professional set of eyes every now and then.
But, again, I do most of it myself. It doesn't hurt and I encourage all to do it. Play around with your bike, it's ok, you won't break it. Practice indexing your deraileurs and lock outs. Throw them out a little and adjust them back in...practice makes perfect.
Chains are easy...when a chain has had it, replace it. Basic bike tools are worth jack shit...that's Aussie for "not much". You don't have to go and buy the most expensive tools out there. I purchased a kit for well under a hundred smakas (no, us Aussies DO NOT USE THE TERM dallarydoos...that is a Simpsons, and a Simpson's thing only...lol, along with bewildered tourists who have no idea of reality)...let us digress a little shall we...
A little lesson in Aussie currency
$1 = a buck, or a dollar funny enough, or along with a $2 coin, yes we gave $1 and $2 coins...they are simply goldies...um, because they're gold.
$5 = a fiver, pretty simple huh?
$10 = a bluey or blue swimmer, they're blue. Just for the record a blue swimmer is a crab.
$20 = a lobster, because they're red.
$50 = a pineapple, or a nifty. Pineapple because they are yellow, nifty, well, rhymes with fifty.
$100 = now here's the disparity...they whre called a grey ghost...yes "grey" we use real gooder English here in Bumtopia. They were called this because they were grey in colour. Now they are green...who knows...and who cares...lol.
It wasn't only because they ere grey they were called a grey ghost. It was also because of 1. they were reasonably rare, especially for low income households, but also 2. they were harder to cash than a cheque...
So ok, we've dispersed the dollarydoo bullshit, let's get back on track. Oh, that's right, there was no real track to be on...lol.
Home or self bike maintenance...that's right. Look it's a really good thing to get into. It saves you money, and it saves you on the road if necessary.
I'm also going to be doing something kinda funny, dumb, silly...I don't know the real term to use...But I'm going to be doing a three or four day camping trip soon. I plan to head down to Kinkuna. Kinkuna is a stretch of beach that falls within the boundary of a National Park, Kinkuna National Park, near where I live. It's only twenty kilometers away, so not far.
So why silly? I won't be taking the Sutra. What, no Sutra??? I'l be taking the Frankenstein mountain bike. I call it Frankenstein because it's a bitza. A bitza is an Aussie term usually used to describe a mut dog of no pedigree, a dog that has bits of this, and bits of that.
The MTB is a Merida, I know that. But when I acquired it, it was a 26" MTB. At the same time I got this, I also got another Merida for my daughter that was a 27.5". How I acquired these bikes was when I sold my Domane road bike. I had a friend who I cycled and raced with. His son, who happens to be an awesome rider by the way, needed a new bike, a bigger bike.
When I advertised the Domane he contacted me, knowing full well how how meticulous I was of my precious carbon limb, yes limb. We did a trade, cash plus bikes. Fair enough I suppose. I was more looking for the cash, but what can I say, I'm a nice guy...lol.
Now, after riding the Merida ??? MTB for a while it was a bit small. The other of 27.5" persuasion for my daughter was a tad big. So I swapped some shit. I squeezed the 27.5" rims onto the 26" frame, and visa versa. After some adjustment and rim trueing...not sure how true..lol I made larger rimes fit with some 2.2" tyres.
After squeezing them on, I realised in the first instance that they couldn't go on with the original Alivio 3 speed front derailleur. Now this bike bike comes with 3 speed front running gear, but the outer chain ring had been removed...it was a mountain bike after all. So to make it fit I had a Sora front derailluer that I mounted onto it. Hey, it ain't pretty, but it works and it fits...lol. So now you know about Frankenstein, my darkest secret.
So anywhooo, Frankenstein will be the mode of transport, along with one of the kiddie tag-a-longs that I have. I purchased two of these from a local tender center for around $45.00 each. I got these because we plan to do some family trips. One to carry the gear and one to carry Boof, Wilson our four legged dish licker.
So heading out I want to take an Esky, yes Esky. That's a cooler for those who aren't Aussie. You see we have of a habit of calling things here by the name of those who originally introduced it to us. i.e. Esky because that was our first Australian made cooler here. Just like Breville, our first Australian made electric jaffle iron...you get my gist. So, the Esky, I might want to smuggle in a few amber carbohydrates in...lol.
I also plan on taking some fishing gear. I haven't fished for ages, not that I even catch a cold when I fish, but like cycling, it is rather relaxing.
I suppose also it will also show that you don't need a shit load (that's "a lot") of expensive gear, or have to travel a sqizillion kilometers to have a great bike tour.
So watch out on my YouTube channel for the Me & Frankenstein Getaway. Shit I've even named it already...lol.
Well cheers guys, and as always, ride safe.
P.S. Keep and ear out for something new. I plan to start a Podcast, I've been told I have the perfect head for radio. Seeing that I am an Old Bum On A Bike, it will be my "Talking Out My Arse" (Ass for those who don't speak real English..lol) Podcast. Old Bum On A Bike - Talking Out My Arse has a good ring to it...lol. It will be me, just gabbling on about shit really :-D
Cheers guys.
A broken spoke still awaits repair on the Sutra, which I hope to get to attend to tomorrow. I'm thinking of videoing this one as a kind of home fix it.
Even though I am, by no means, a professional bike mechanic, I do do a lot of repairs and maintenance myself. I think it is important as a cyclist to be able to accomplish basic repairs on your own, especially if you are touring.
Most of my servicing and repairs such as replacing cassettes, chains, brakes along with derailleur adjustments are all part of my process. I have a good friend who is a bike mechanic for the rest. His name is Jack and he runs a business called, of all names...Dr Bike. He has always done a fantastic job for me, and has always been reasonable on price. No, no mates rates, I don't expect it, he just does a good affordable job for everyone. He mainly does a thorough check over for me prior to a trip, or just a good look over whenever. Hey, I'm far from perfect...it never hurts to get a second, more professional set of eyes every now and then.
But, again, I do most of it myself. It doesn't hurt and I encourage all to do it. Play around with your bike, it's ok, you won't break it. Practice indexing your deraileurs and lock outs. Throw them out a little and adjust them back in...practice makes perfect.
Chains are easy...when a chain has had it, replace it. Basic bike tools are worth jack shit...that's Aussie for "not much". You don't have to go and buy the most expensive tools out there. I purchased a kit for well under a hundred smakas (no, us Aussies DO NOT USE THE TERM dallarydoos...that is a Simpsons, and a Simpson's thing only...lol, along with bewildered tourists who have no idea of reality)...let us digress a little shall we...
A little lesson in Aussie currency
$1 = a buck, or a dollar funny enough, or along with a $2 coin, yes we gave $1 and $2 coins...they are simply goldies...um, because they're gold.
$5 = a fiver, pretty simple huh?
$10 = a bluey or blue swimmer, they're blue. Just for the record a blue swimmer is a crab.
$20 = a lobster, because they're red.
$50 = a pineapple, or a nifty. Pineapple because they are yellow, nifty, well, rhymes with fifty.
$100 = now here's the disparity...they whre called a grey ghost...yes "grey" we use real gooder English here in Bumtopia. They were called this because they were grey in colour. Now they are green...who knows...and who cares...lol.
It wasn't only because they ere grey they were called a grey ghost. It was also because of 1. they were reasonably rare, especially for low income households, but also 2. they were harder to cash than a cheque...
So ok, we've dispersed the dollarydoo bullshit, let's get back on track. Oh, that's right, there was no real track to be on...lol.
Home or self bike maintenance...that's right. Look it's a really good thing to get into. It saves you money, and it saves you on the road if necessary.
I'm also going to be doing something kinda funny, dumb, silly...I don't know the real term to use...But I'm going to be doing a three or four day camping trip soon. I plan to head down to Kinkuna. Kinkuna is a stretch of beach that falls within the boundary of a National Park, Kinkuna National Park, near where I live. It's only twenty kilometers away, so not far.
So why silly? I won't be taking the Sutra. What, no Sutra??? I'l be taking the Frankenstein mountain bike. I call it Frankenstein because it's a bitza. A bitza is an Aussie term usually used to describe a mut dog of no pedigree, a dog that has bits of this, and bits of that.
The MTB is a Merida, I know that. But when I acquired it, it was a 26" MTB. At the same time I got this, I also got another Merida for my daughter that was a 27.5". How I acquired these bikes was when I sold my Domane road bike. I had a friend who I cycled and raced with. His son, who happens to be an awesome rider by the way, needed a new bike, a bigger bike.
When I advertised the Domane he contacted me, knowing full well how how meticulous I was of my precious carbon limb, yes limb. We did a trade, cash plus bikes. Fair enough I suppose. I was more looking for the cash, but what can I say, I'm a nice guy...lol.
Now, after riding the Merida ??? MTB for a while it was a bit small. The other of 27.5" persuasion for my daughter was a tad big. So I swapped some shit. I squeezed the 27.5" rims onto the 26" frame, and visa versa. After some adjustment and rim trueing...not sure how true..lol I made larger rimes fit with some 2.2" tyres.
After squeezing them on, I realised in the first instance that they couldn't go on with the original Alivio 3 speed front derailleur. Now this bike bike comes with 3 speed front running gear, but the outer chain ring had been removed...it was a mountain bike after all. So to make it fit I had a Sora front derailluer that I mounted onto it. Hey, it ain't pretty, but it works and it fits...lol. So now you know about Frankenstein, my darkest secret.
So anywhooo, Frankenstein will be the mode of transport, along with one of the kiddie tag-a-longs that I have. I purchased two of these from a local tender center for around $45.00 each. I got these because we plan to do some family trips. One to carry the gear and one to carry Boof, Wilson our four legged dish licker.
So heading out I want to take an Esky, yes Esky. That's a cooler for those who aren't Aussie. You see we have of a habit of calling things here by the name of those who originally introduced it to us. i.e. Esky because that was our first Australian made cooler here. Just like Breville, our first Australian made electric jaffle iron...you get my gist. So, the Esky, I might want to smuggle in a few amber carbohydrates in...lol.
I also plan on taking some fishing gear. I haven't fished for ages, not that I even catch a cold when I fish, but like cycling, it is rather relaxing.
I suppose also it will also show that you don't need a shit load (that's "a lot") of expensive gear, or have to travel a sqizillion kilometers to have a great bike tour.
So watch out on my YouTube channel for the Me & Frankenstein Getaway. Shit I've even named it already...lol.
Well cheers guys, and as always, ride safe.
P.S. Keep and ear out for something new. I plan to start a Podcast, I've been told I have the perfect head for radio. Seeing that I am an Old Bum On A Bike, it will be my "Talking Out My Arse" (Ass for those who don't speak real English..lol) Podcast. Old Bum On A Bike - Talking Out My Arse has a good ring to it...lol. It will be me, just gabbling on about shit really :-D
Cheers guys.
Monday, 2 April 2018
Head Space.
Christmas has well and truly come and gone, the New Year is well...almost half way through, a new job that has been started and so much still to do around the house, it is hard to get my head in the game for planning any adventures.
My blogging, which I love, has taken a back seat for past...jeez how many months? I suppose we all need a break to regroup and refresh, and furthermore it is so hard to get back into a motivated state of mind...just getting started is the hardest thing.
Motivation has gone AWOL for the past six months and the bike has sat idle in the shed with the exception of commuting the short distance to and from work...and here it is Easter holidays.
The weight that I had lost has returned with a vengeance after a dismal past six months. Knee pains, ankle pains, back pains are all become the norm once again. Too many beers, way too much unhealthy living and a lack of pedal motion has all worked together to drag me back into the pit of obesity, all 121.5 kg's of it. Not bad considering I was done at my peak of 96 kg's, and even after giving up on the racing I was happily hovering around the 100 kg's.
To be honest I just haven't been bothered. I have found myself watching YouTube rather than doing stuff to take footage to post to it.
But that is changing as of this weekend. I have a short trip to take away but after that...BANG!!!!! I am into it once again. There is so much I want to accomplish this year and I'm off to a bad start I know, but I've always been one to cram study the night before an exam...lol.
But Konnie (my Kona Sutra) needs some tlc and attention, and the old Merida MTB is past due for a dust off. So this blog is no longer just about cycling, it's about taking my badly neglected life back. Hopefully it will assist with the motivation I lack at present...hang on, just wait a tick whilst I grab another beer... What? The weekend isn't over yet...lol.
There were several things I was planning for this year but unfortunately work has disturbed my social life, and they will sit in prime position on the mantle waiting for when the time is right. So I will get back into trips shortly, just relatively local, as I have four days every week to get out there.
Like I have always said, "Being married with children and bills to pay the long trips aren't always a reality".
I have so much to see around here that I could video and blog about. Bundaberg is beautiful part of the world.
On a further note, I am also setting up the old Pajero for some up and coming family trips. I have an old trailer that I intend on building up as a camper trailer, and along with some swags, these trips shouldn't be too far away. Of course, at least the old Merida MTB will be strapped to the roof as I have to take the opportunity to cycle in unusual places that we intend to set up camp. These should be a lot of fun.
Four-wheel-driving and bush camping is something that I have always loved. So the Paj will be set up a little more appropriately, whilst the old trailer will be set up to carry our large fridge, gear and kitchen etc. I have the plan in my head, I just have to establish it into reality. Plus, like I said, some of the places we intend to travel will make some awesome bike riding.
So it was just a short blog today mainly to get be seated behind the keyboard again, and it feels good.
To those who have followed this blog, and to those who read it when posted...thank you, I appreciate it. I apologise for the absence.
So no it's just a matter of loosing weight and getting my fitness back once again. I'm looking forward to what the near future has and can't wait to tackle it head on.
Cheers guys, and ride safe.
My blogging, which I love, has taken a back seat for past...jeez how many months? I suppose we all need a break to regroup and refresh, and furthermore it is so hard to get back into a motivated state of mind...just getting started is the hardest thing.
Motivation has gone AWOL for the past six months and the bike has sat idle in the shed with the exception of commuting the short distance to and from work...and here it is Easter holidays.
The weight that I had lost has returned with a vengeance after a dismal past six months. Knee pains, ankle pains, back pains are all become the norm once again. Too many beers, way too much unhealthy living and a lack of pedal motion has all worked together to drag me back into the pit of obesity, all 121.5 kg's of it. Not bad considering I was done at my peak of 96 kg's, and even after giving up on the racing I was happily hovering around the 100 kg's.
To be honest I just haven't been bothered. I have found myself watching YouTube rather than doing stuff to take footage to post to it.
But that is changing as of this weekend. I have a short trip to take away but after that...BANG!!!!! I am into it once again. There is so much I want to accomplish this year and I'm off to a bad start I know, but I've always been one to cram study the night before an exam...lol.
But Konnie (my Kona Sutra) needs some tlc and attention, and the old Merida MTB is past due for a dust off. So this blog is no longer just about cycling, it's about taking my badly neglected life back. Hopefully it will assist with the motivation I lack at present...hang on, just wait a tick whilst I grab another beer... What? The weekend isn't over yet...lol.
There were several things I was planning for this year but unfortunately work has disturbed my social life, and they will sit in prime position on the mantle waiting for when the time is right. So I will get back into trips shortly, just relatively local, as I have four days every week to get out there.
Like I have always said, "Being married with children and bills to pay the long trips aren't always a reality".
I have so much to see around here that I could video and blog about. Bundaberg is beautiful part of the world.
On a further note, I am also setting up the old Pajero for some up and coming family trips. I have an old trailer that I intend on building up as a camper trailer, and along with some swags, these trips shouldn't be too far away. Of course, at least the old Merida MTB will be strapped to the roof as I have to take the opportunity to cycle in unusual places that we intend to set up camp. These should be a lot of fun.
Four-wheel-driving and bush camping is something that I have always loved. So the Paj will be set up a little more appropriately, whilst the old trailer will be set up to carry our large fridge, gear and kitchen etc. I have the plan in my head, I just have to establish it into reality. Plus, like I said, some of the places we intend to travel will make some awesome bike riding.
So it was just a short blog today mainly to get be seated behind the keyboard again, and it feels good.
To those who have followed this blog, and to those who read it when posted...thank you, I appreciate it. I apologise for the absence.
So no it's just a matter of loosing weight and getting my fitness back once again. I'm looking forward to what the near future has and can't wait to tackle it head on.
Cheers guys, and ride safe.
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