[Geoff]

I was out riding yesterday with a few friends from the NZ branch of the Institute of Advanced Motorists. Although I'm still an Examiner, I retired as regional Chair of IAM just before C-19 lockdown and this was our first get-together since all restrictions were lifted. Great riding, even though there were heavy showers but the best bit was right at the end. They presented me with a KTM Race Team fleece and a snow dome with a photo of me and the 790 inside it (the closest I'll ever get to riding in snow) 😄 .

It was totally unexpected and quite emotional - what a fabulous bunch of mates and I really treasure those gifts.

 

[Wavshrdr]

Congrats, what a touching gift. Don't think you missed out on not riding in snow. ;-)

 

[Geoff]

Congrats, what a touching gift. Don't think you missed out on not riding in snow. ;-)

Thank you! I grew up in the UK and my 500cc Triumph was my only transport to university in all weathers. Quite happy to never see snow again

 

[barbagris]

Quite happy to never see snow again

Oh I dunno. It's all white and pretty. Be lovely on those high mountain ranges in the distance.

And it is damn cold at the top of that - especially at night!.

 

[Geoff]

Oh I dunno. It's all white and pretty. Be lovely on those high mountain ranges in the distance.

And it is damn cold at the top of that - especially at night!.

Went past it when we were there 3 years ago but not up it! There's snow in the NZ high country in winter but you won't find me there at the same time

 

[Stewart]

That's a really nice story, congratulations!

 

[Geoff]

That's a really nice story, congratulations!

Thanks Stewart. My riding partners are a great bunch of people but give me plenty of stick about an old geezer riding a 790. They think that at my age, I should be riding something more "sedate"

 

[Stewart]

Yeah, to hell with that. There are enough BMW and Harley's out there.
Bottoms Up!

 

[barbagris]

Went past it when we were there 3 years ago but not up it!

I was part of the "official" Centenary climb in '89. But I started having proper Altitude Sickness at 5100metres - so turned around.