Licola        MK II                 Sunday 31st January, 2010

As soon as we met at the usual spot in Berwick, it was evident that the weather man had been right for a change; it was going to be a scorcher! This also meant that it was a reasonably small and enthusiastic group that worked well, the 250cc class holding a very impressive pace.

We set off with Cliffy in the lead, weaving our way though Longwarry and Jindivick, along the Old Sale Road at a slower pace (for Cliff) and in to Moe for morning tea. I think only cold drinks were purchased!

Next a short trip in to Tyres for another drink stop. Oh, and some fuel for the bikes.

After fuelling up, we continued down through Toongabbie, around to Seaton, past Lake Glenmaggie and across the trestle bridge heading for Licola. Here Cliffy showed off the fact that he has been able to indulge in mid-week practice rides; he just disappeared along this incredible road, leaving the rest of us to follow his big black tyre marks through each corner.

The road to Licola was in fantastic condition with only a few mid-corner bumps to throw the unsuspecting rider clean out of the saddle (that was me). Nevertheless, it was amazing with corners that just kept coming and coming. It also has some fantastic scenery, I was told by Pina, a very brave pillion. I do not recommend looking at the scenery because that road requires every last bit of your attention!

At Licola we had a quick stop to re-group and compare tyre wear. Then a smaller group dashed up the hill to check out the melting corners and to test our bikes’ brakes - we all had to stop in a hurry after flying out of the last tarred corner to find a very short stretch of road before the 4WD track started. This was a prime spot to turn around, regroup and share the experience. Then we headed back down to the General Store for lunch by the river with lots more cold drinks!

After refreshments we retraced our steps along this incredible Licola road, eventually back to Tyres for fuel, and MORE drinks. Some even consumed an icy pole or two. We finished up in Longwarry North to break up.

Not long after rejoining the highway for the drone home, the weather man proved unfortunately right again. A cool change hit hard, bringing with it a heavy downpour and even a bit of lightning!

All in all, a fantastic day of riding made even better by great company. Thanks everyone!

 

Adam Wright