I thought it might not be my day when the bike I was to ride would not start, even though it had the previous day. No problem, I got out my faithful Laverda RGS 1000 and got to the Virginia with no problems at all.
A good turn out of 19 riders signed on, including new members Martin and Jackie from East Stour on their BMW R100RS. The fame of Dorset Section must be spreading as we were also joined by Ian from West Kent Section. As Ian was on holiday without a bike I lent him a Morini to ride for the day.
After coffee and bacon rolls it was off on a 46 mile ride to The Story Pig. However about 100 yards from the pub an ominous noise caused me to pull over and I realised the electric starter clutch had jammed and consequently the motor was being turned by the engine. That was the end of my run. But I think I have broken Chris Biddiscombe’s record of the shortest distance travelled form the Virginia Ash before breaking down!
Reports from Chris, Ray and Paul W indicated a bit of chaos caused by a road closure at Hazelbury Bryan, the road was open but the signs were still up. A few detours were taken! Then a bit of traffic was encountered queuing for the Oak Fair at Stock Gaylard. Happily most reached the Story Pig, except for the usual suspects who diverted elsewhere – you know who they are!
Meanwhile I abandoned Ian at the Virginia Ash and rode the Morini back to get my van to rescue the Laverda. Unfortunately Ian didn’t do as much riding as he expected but does at least have a tale to tell when he returns home.
Thanks to Ray and Paul W for their photos.
