I t’s cold, bitterly cold. Small clouds of steamy air rise
from the numerous groups, discussing the plans for
the day. Hushed tones hide the nervousness
amongst a great array of bikes. There’s
a lot of yellow, there’s a lot of Suzu-
ki’s.
We’re stood in the
carpark of the McDonald’s
in Lithgow, New South
Wales (Australia). The sun
hasn't risen yet, the tem-
perature is below zero,
we’re promised it will be a
perfect day for exploring
the outer western side of
the famous Blue Moun-
tains. This is the Suzuki
Adventure Ride, a week-
end very different to many
other adventure rides.
There’s Suzuki’s as far as
the eye can see, about 60 bikes
have turned up, mostly Suzuki’s how-
ever, unlike many other manufacturer run
rides this one is open to all, there’s a handful of
Honda’s, KTM’s and BMW’s. There’s no discrimina-
tion, just friendly banter … discussions of the capabilities
of Suzuki’s and the lack of from the other manufacturers.
It’s all in good humour.
An address by former three-time Australian
Superbike Champion, Shawn Giles, sets
the tone for the day; this is not about
racing, it’s about having fun,
enjoying the ride, enjoy-
ing the bikes. The roads
will be easy, we’re told al-
though, Shawn is quick to
point out there’s a more
challenging route if any-
one is interested in fol-
lowing him. Excited con-
versations ripple through
the crowd.
A mixed group head off
following Shawn, a mot-
ley group of bikes, some
battered, some new,
small, large, all ready for
the adventure.
Those remaining prepare for the
more sedate ride, the nervous tension now
replaced with anticipation. What will this ride
hold for us?
We ride off toward Hassans Walls, a tight uphill climb, a
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