bit more than brisk

[Pterodactyl_imp]

Hey Ferret that's cold. Real brass monkey weather! Hmmm 34.2F - must get out my converter...........about 1deg C. I don't mind the cold so much. It's the conditions that go with it. Cold, clear and dry with nil wind is acceptable but wet, grey and windy is not for me. I know that the continental US gets more extreme weather than here in Oz so I have to admire you hardy souls that ride in the extremes of both summer and winter.

This June (mid winter for us) I rode the CB to the Alpine Rally at Yarangobilly, in the Alpine NP. The night time temperature of -10deg C (14degF) was cold but the weather was perfect. Camped out for two nights. On a cold clear alpine night the stars were like a myriad of diamonds on black velvet. If you have ever seen the southern hemisphere night sky, with the "milky way" in all its glory, you will know what I mean. The usual after dinner cup (or two) of Bundy warmed the cockles of the heart and I had no trouble sleeping. Alas, had to get up at 3am or thereabouts to "strain the spuds" - wasn't easy getting out of the sleeping bag but it had to be done! The best part was, in the morning, packing up the tent. Simply shook the ice off and rolled it up nice and dry. Easy. The ride out was cold but clear blue. No worries.

The Alpine rally is a bit of an institution with this year being the 44th. There were around 200 bikes. Everything has to be carried in by bike. Support vehicles not allowed. The award for longest ride was handed out to some bloke who came from Broome, WA. Around 9000kms + return trip. What a hero! I have some photos so, if anyone is interested I will post a link.

Cheers from sunny Sydney.