Mopeds Plus – Mt Barker Burble, 11th October 2020

14 Oct

Rider List

  • Rob Smyth 1970 Motobecane 50cc 
  • Peter Arriola 1957 James 150cc
  • Roger O’Loughlin 1988 Suzuki 650cc
  • Don Jennings 1977 BMW 1000cc
  • Lyn Jennings 2005 Yamaha 250cc 
  • Joe Betschart 1972 Kriedler 49cc     
  • Tony Earnshaw 1974 BMW 600cc
  • Warren Duncan 2002 Honda 250cc
  • Graham Riley 1960 Vespa 125cc
  • David Saint 1957 BMW 250cc
  • Neville Gray 1967   Bridgestone 175cc 
  • Mick Hayes 2016 Suzuki 650cc 
  • Kym Miller 1977 Yamaha 500cc
  • Grant Christie 2003 Suzuki 600cc  

Riders assembled at the normal Apex Park on Flaxley Rd. Mount Barker venue in anticipation of the Burble commencing at 10.00am.

As usual we had three marshals appointed ready to provide guidance on the route. Things were, however, very different down the end of the pack. Alan Wallis, our normal “Tail End Charlie”, was not in place astride the SA produced Tilbrook motor cycle, which has become a feature of Moped journeys for many years. Alan had a bit of a mishap as a pedestrian a few weeks ago and is recovering well from a broken leg, and is not able to ride as yet.

Not to be denied attendance of probably the best ride Moped run of the year, he arrived at the start chauffeured in sedan comfort by Paul David to observe the days proceedings. It was good also to see Robert (Pud) Freeman attending again and accompanying us for the full event in his car.        .

Roger O’Loughlin kindly agreed to act as TEC for the day.

The weather was fine, a little chilly at the start, but absolutely perfect for the rest of the day. The Adelaide Hills has received exceptional late winter early spring rainfall and the countryside looks at its very best.

 The Burble left Mount Barker via Flaxley Rd. turning off for Echunga and thence to to Meadows. Earlier research had suggested that the usual Meadows Bakery stop may not be a good idea, and approaching that venue this opinion was confirmed. The bakery and other close businesses were very crowded and even kerbside parks were not available. We gave it a miss and continued on up the hill and down the other side to Macclesfield. As a result of an earlier visit we were aware of an alternative morning tea venue at Macclesfield, Maccy Shop & Cafe which has just been renovated, and this was excellent for our visit.

After morning- tea, the group burbled back to the starting point and commenced an extended lunch break at various Mount Barker eateries.

Two riders retired after the lunch break while the remainder rode to Woodside via Littlehampton and Balhannah to sample the delights of Melba’s Chocolate factory. The remaining group gathered outside the factory in shade sampling their purchases, and Don Jennings and wife Lyn gave a demonstration of how to consume massive double decker ice creams in a cone (on a warm day) without it running down to the elbow!

Various riders then left for home direct. Alan Wallis and Paul David called it a day, and in the end only two riders tucked in behind the leader and, followed by Wayne in the rescue vehicle made it back to Mount Barker There were no breakdowns or bike problems for the day.

Thanks go to Roger O’Loughlin, Don Jennings, Mick Hayes, Tony Earnshaw and Wayne Williams for their assistance throughout the day.

Last but certainly not least there is no doubt Paul David’s gesture in providing care and transpor,t so that Alan Wallis could attend this ride, topped off what was already a very good day.

Warren Duncan, Mopeds Plus Coordinator.

NEXT RUN: Adelaide Beach Run -6th December 2020             

  • MEET: for a 9.30am Start. Birkenhead Tavern, Pt. Adelaide -Over the Birkenhead Bridge right turn at lights – Tavern on right.
  • RUN: Port Adelaide/ Outer Harbour/Largs /Semaphore/Grange/ Henley Beach/ Glenelg and return. Riders may elect to lunch together at a location to be advised.

Please check the Club website or phone either of the enquiry numbers closer to the date.        

         REMEMBER:   These runs cater for the slower rider, backup trailer always provided.

            Enquiries; Warren 8388 1770    Alan 8295 5097