Tenere Tragics

2012-02-28T10:45:00.002-08:00

TENERE TRAGICS TAKE AIM ON FACEBOOK!

Dear Ténéré Tragics fans and followers: We have just made the shift from this Blogspot page across to a dedicated Facebook page to post all our Ténéré Tragics news, mail, photos and ride reports. You will also be able to post your Comments on the Facebook page.

To view the new Ténéré Tragics Facebook page, please go to

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tenere-Tragics/118714944907441

Please 'Like' the new Ténéré Tragics Facebook page and please be sure to circulate this link to your family and friends so they can follow 'Live' updates from next week's 2012 Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run event.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-26T11:50:00.003-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: PROGRESS IN THE READFORD'S YAMAHA DUBBO WORKSHOP!

Hi Clubby: It's getting close now, so time for another update from our corner of the Tragics world!

I have a new set of off-road maps arriving Monday for my Garmin. They were only released last Thursday! Hopefully I can get my head around the new program. These type of maps are very basic, unlike roads and highways where you can plot everything. Anyway I have maps (printed types) as well!

Updates on our bikes are as follows:

1). Col has just had new tyres and H/D tubes fitted, fresh chain and cogs, new fork seals/oil/spacer, front brake master cylinder and caliper rebuild upgrade and then a test ride -- but, oops, there's an oil leak! The next time I see him will probably be as we are leaving to go to Bathurst next weekend as he will be working away all this week.

2). Pete has now picked up his bike after its blue slip, green slip ... and a massive rebuild! It's going through rego next week at Wellington. His bike had a rebore, head rebuild, new front rim/spokes, two new tyres and tubes and new fork seals. It had the same front brake rebuild as Col's bike, except it also included a new braided line as we couldn't get the brakes to pump up as the hose was old and bulging under pressure. It also scored new chain and cogs, new chain guide, new front and rear fenders, repair of the taillight bracket and flashers ... plus heaps more items too many to mention now!

3). My 'Baby' has been upgraded with a sump mod, Hepco bash plate, Yamaha engine bars with Col's version of a support bar (powder-coated), electronic cruise control, adjustable windscreen, wind deflectors (modded), extra power outlet, GPS, UHF, music, Bagster tank cover, SW Motech tank bag, GPS ram ball and new tyres as it was assembled. We've also given it a paint job (as per the European Off-Road 2012 'Special Edition' model). Took her for a test ride today Dubbo to Molong (gelato factory) to Mumbil to Wellington and home -- all went fairly well in the rain all the way! Marg and some mates also came along for the ride. Test fitted the luggage when I got home, but I still can't decide whether to topbox it or run a waterproof bag (as per Arkaroola trip).

Anyway, that's our news, can't wait until next week -- hope you had an eventful weekend of pre-planning!

-- Dave, Ténéré Tragic #21

Crikey, Dave, has there been any time for paying customers' bikes in the Readford's Yamaha workshop over the past month?! It sounds like you boys and your Ténérés have been keeping the workshop flat-out! Can't wait to see Pete's '83 model, for it sounds like it has had a serious make-over -- excellent! And exactly what colour is your 1200 going to be? The European Limited Edition model is available in a couple of different colour options (the white/red one is shown in this photo), so which one have you re-created? As for me, well, YES, I did have an eventful long weekend of final pre-ride route checking. I absolutely sizzled for two days down south and was hampered by a closed section of state forest that is now being logged, so much re-routing work was required there. Then yesterday, I was out near Bathurst and, like you, got piddled on from a great height for the entire day. With the weather so unpredictable these days, I would say all Ténéré Tragics this year best be prepared for blazing heat and drizzling rain, as we are sure to cop it all at some stage over the five days of the ride. Okay, mate, see you boys at Bathurst next Sunday arvo ... for crying out loud don't forget the printed maps!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-26T02:26:00.002-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC JOHN ON THE WAY!

Hi Tania & Clubby: It's Friday, February 24, as I write this note and I'm just about to toss the panniers over the seat ready to leave in the morning as I set off for the 2012 Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run. I have had to change my route and will be coming via Echuca in Victoria, so if any of the other Tragics heading north out of Victoria catch up to a Ténéré, I will be more than happy to have the company. Looking forward to the ride and catching up next week!

-- John, Ténéré Tragic #36

Good luck on the long trip south, John; we can't wait to catch up again at Bathurst next weekend. Now, for those who don't know, John hails from the Northern Territory, so needless to say he has a few miles ahead of him in just getting to the Tragics event -- but can you believe he is going via Victoria to get to Bathurst?! Once again John's a definite candidate for the Most Kilometres Ridden in getting to the event Award!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-26T02:19:00.002-08:00

FOR SALE: XT1200Z SUPER TENERE

Our good mate Dave Williams from Fair Dinkum Bike Tours Cairns just sent us a note to advise a good mate of his has a little-used Yamaha XT1200Z Supere Tenere for-sale -- here are the details:

2010 Yamaha XT1200Z Super Tenere 1200.

Price $16,000.

Blue/silver.

8900km.

Still has two brand new Continental tyres to go on, existing rear nearly shot, front 90 per cent good.

Fitted with bar risers, Pivot Pegz, Motorrad Garage alloy bash plate and crash bars.

Never been dropped or even scratched.

Solo Qld rego till June 2012, but it has the rear pegs on it. Nothing changed from original.

Only ever ridden by an excellent mature rider on Sundays!

For more details, call Dave on (07) 4053 6999 or (0412) 950 192

2012-02-22T18:29:00.002-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: THE SA CREW ARE READY & RARIN'!

Hi Clubby & Tania: Getting very excited. Only nine sleeps until we leave Adelaide to head to Bathurst. It's great to now have all the information on the fuel/food stops. I think Glenn and Michael were considering if they can set me up as a mobile food truck complete with an esky full of beer to meet them at the lunch stops ... but we’ll see. Café Latte anyone!

The ute and trailer is ready to go and I am more than happy to have sponsors stickers added to the vehicle for the Run and also if needed to be back-up for Pete. Here’s hoping no fellow riders will need a lift back ... unlike last year!

Attached is a photo of the boys' bikes as they were getting ready for a recent ride – unfortunately Greg who owns the white Ténéré is unable to make it to Tragics. In our group of friends there are seven Ténérés in total but I haven’t been able to get them all together for a photo. Michael is unsure if he is taking the ’88, which won him an award last year, or his recently acquired 750 Super Ténéré. He also has an ’83 sitting in the shed if need be. Too many options!

Well, back to the prep. Look forward to seeing you all at Bathurst.

-- Caron, Ténéré Tragic supporter, wife of Glenn (Dambo), Ténéré Tragic #14

Great news, Caron, and congrats to all your SA crew as you tie off all the loose ends for your Ténéré Tragics trip this year. Can’t wait to catch up with you all again, and thanks also for the offer of acting as an added support vehicle running from each overnight stop to the next. I am sure your vehicle and trailer will come in handy at some stage or another ... but you might live to regret the offer of Cafe Lattes -- Wolfy and Russ will be stopping you every chance they get! Can’t wait to see just which Ténéré Michael arrives on this year! Okay, I need to get out and do some more pre-running. C U soon!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-22T18:19:00.002-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC RALPH IS READY & RARIN'!

Dear Tragics: My preparation is almost complete on the 660: Service - tick; Tyres - tick; Staintunes on - tick. I really can't wait, just need those little wobbly mirrors, but from where? Oh, and I better book those hotels!

-- Ralph, Ténéré Tragic

Thanks for the fast update, Ralph, it will be great to have you along this year as a Ténéré Tragic virgin! Now, if I may, I need to make a quick introduction to all our fellow Tragics that you will actually be 'hard at work' on this year's Run -- as Ralph is a freelance journalist and will be writing a number of articles on the event for national magazines. Ralph, if you need any info from any of our Tragics re any matter Ténéré, do not hesitate to ask ... they are all fountains of information on all things Ténéré related!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-20T01:56:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: READFORD'S MOTORCYCLE CENTRE IS A HIVE OF ACTIVITY

Hi there Tragics: I thought I would take a moment to send in a photo of our workshop with a 'Triple Treat' of Ténérés being prepared for this year's big ride. There's my 1200 waiting for a heap of goodies to be fitted; Col's '86 ZS getting some TLC; and Pete's '83 600 undergoing major surgery. There have been much fun and games with time constraints based around work and parts availability making for interesting scenarios as to when these bikes actually be ready to ride!

Best regards and we'll see you all at the Mountain.

-- Dave Readford, Ténéré Tragic #21

Now Dave, we have ultimate faith in you and all the boys there at Readford's Motorcycles in Dubbo getting that mighty trio of Ténérés ship-shape for this year's Tragics Run. Look forward to seeing you in Bathurst.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-20T01:48:00.001-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC COLIN'S BUSHPIG IS ALIVE AND RUNNING!

Hi Clubby & Tania: Unlike last year where I was still trying to get the Bushpig up and running while the rest of you Tragics were already on your way to Arkaroola, this year I have the old girl off the bench and have even managed to go out for a shake-down run. You will notice in the picture there have been a few changes since last year. The flammable saddle bags have been replaced with some hard panniers and I have done some major revisions to the front end. Funny how replacing a leaky fork seal can turn in to a $500 front end overhaul with new seals, wipers, bushes, fork boots, steering head bearings and a set of Hyperpro springs to replace the stacked-out originals.

One of the many advantages of living in the country is that you don’t have to go far to find some good adventure riding. In my case, living on a dirt road, the adventure starts as soon as I head off down my driveway. I was having a good ride on some of the great dirt roads and tracks that run around the Clare Valley area here in SA until I stopped to take another picture after about 70km of riding. It seems that the Motoz Tractionator that I put on the rear is a bit wider than my previous rear tyre and it had been rubbing on the inside of the oil tank and caused a small crack to appear, making the rear of the bike an oily mess. Luckily I was only about 15km from home, so a had a slow ride home, stopping every few kilometres to check that I still had oil in the tank. So the bike is now back in her normal position on the work bench while I repair and modify the oil tank to stop a repeat performance on the big trip.

-- Colin, Ténéré Tragic #6

Nice one, Colin, the old Boy Scout theory of being prepared is clearly the order of the day this year -- good stuff! But it just won't seem the same if you don't roll up to greet us at the start of the ride with the delicious waft of molten saddle bags in the air and emu feathers jammed inside the engine fins! Take care on the long ride across from South Aussie and we'll see you at Mount Panorama on Sunday week.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-20T01:30:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC STEVE SHOULD WORK ON A MAGAZINE!

G’day fellow Tragics: Look ... it’s all very good for Clive to give us his preparation and maintenance tips for this year's Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run ... but what about the Tragics whose idea of ride preparation is a wash and a wander around and then a full tank of fuel? I mean, what's wrong with riding till bits break or fall off then repair? It saves money on maintaining bits that don’t break and fall off!

And then we Blog-on to see a competition to see how far you can spread a Ténéré over your shed floor. Some of these dinosaurs look like they have been separated back to their basic elements and are ready to be put back into the earth. I just hope these reconstructors took some photos as they dismembered their pride and joys, otherwise they will be belting along wondering if they tightened up the feaffle valve nut to the correct torque setting and did they use the correct grease on the woofle pin and why do I have two nuts and a split-pin left over?

Being a veteran at the annual Ténéré Tragic rides (yes, I attended last year), I have some advice and comments for all riders attending this year:

1. Team up with someone on a 1200 so you can swap on the transport stages.

2. Team up with someone on a 600/660/750 so you can swap when the dirt turns up.

3. Don’t listen to all the 'experts' about how high you can pump up a HiddenOwl tyre to push it over the bead (95psi is too much, but that's just my tip).

4. Look for modifications on other bikes and then destroy the resale value of your own bike by copying others (thanks Troy!).

5. Pack the Liquid Metal at the top of your gear (actually, that's Theo’s tip).

6. Look out for Clubby’s hopeless ideas of distance and degree of difficulty (Hmmm, remember the Rock Farm?!).

7. Soak up the great atmosphere (that's everyone’s tip).

Now, in the Pre-Ride build-up: You should lie awake at night for weeks earlier worrying about do you have the right gear, too much gear or not enough gear? And ask yourself did you wander around the bike enough? And then ask yourself if you're good enough to keep up with the pack or will you drop your bike off the stand in front of 74 Ténéré Tragics who will look on in cool detachment thanking their lucky stars that they didn’t drop their bike first.

During the Ride: Rehydrate your body every night of the ride with barley, hops or grape juice. Rest your body by camping in small tents on even smaller carry mats in the rain. And enjoy the company of 74 other Tragics who all have a story to tell.

After the Ride: Do not sit down for two days. Tell all your non-Tenere mates how fast/quick/sideways/high/deep you went. Then get right in and book a place on next year’s Ténéré Tragics ride.

-- Steve McMillan, Ténéré Tragic #27

Ripper yarn, Steve, and you know what's best? It's all bang on the money! Love your style, son, and your sense of humour. You should get a job writing for a dirt bike magazine -- send us your resume. See you at Bathurst! Oh, and go do one more lap wandering around your bike: chain tension looks a little slack in the photo you sent ... Oh, and another thing, Lance 'Russ' Turnley wants his chair back.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-20T01:24:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC DAVE IS READY & RARIN'!

Hi all Tragics: With only two weeks to go before we all meet at Mt Panorama, I've been doing some prep on the bike. All new wheel bearings, steering head bearings, chain and sprockets, brake pads, brake fluid, air filter cleaned and oiled and finally the engine oil and filter done. All my spare tubes, patch repair kit, spark plug, levers etc are tucked away in the tail bag. I have just been doing a final fit of the luggage and the only thing I have left is to see Steve from AdventureMoto.com.au for either a tank bag or a clip-on map holder.

Looking forward to catching up with everyone on March 4! -- Dave Harrison, Ténéré Tragic #43

Definitely looking good, Dave! In fact, I am guessing you may well be a long way ahead in bike preps than many of our fellow Ténéré Tragics! Can't wait to see you in Bathurst for the start of this year's event!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC KEN INVITES QLD TRAGICS ON THE ROAD TO BATHURST

G'day Tania & Clubby: Only a few weeks to go before the next Ténéré Tragics ride, can't wait, it should be good, looking at the general outline of the route you've told us about, and looking forward to and wondering about all the other things (obstacles/rocks/rivers/hills etc) that you haven't told us about?

A few of the Tragics -- Mike #19, Dave #8 and myself Ken #13 -- are planning to set off on Saturday 3rd March 2012 from the Maccas at Beaudesert, located on Brisbane Street (meet at 7.15 to 7.30am for 8.00am departure).

We plan to travel via Rathdowney, down behind Stanthorpe and on to the New England Highway at Tenterfield. We will proceed down to Tamworth then onto the Hunter Valley, stop over in maybe Denman. Sunday will then be an easy ride via the Bylong Way down to Bathurst arriving early afternoon in plenty of time for the Tragics get-together.

If any other Tragics wish to tag along, they can meet up at Maccas or elsewhere along the way.

-- Ken Henderson, Tenere Tragic #13

Thanks for the heads-up, Ken, as no doubt other 2012 Ténéré Tragics from up your way will most likely want to meet up and ride in convoy. Have a safe ride and we'll see you all at Mount Panorama. And hey, great photo ... quite the fleet you've racked up there, son!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-02-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

THE WOLFMAN'S 'KING KENNY' XT1200Z SUPER TÉNÉRÉ TAKES TO THE GRID!

The clinically clean and immaculately arranged workshop at AdventureMoto.com.au is always a hive of activity and just lately head-honcho Steve 'The Wolfman' Smith and his crew have been busy twirling the T-bars piecing together his mount for the fast-approaching 2012 Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run ... and we can safely say Wolfy's beast is really going to stand out from the crowd. In fact, it will be one of a kind.
He'll be riding his faithful XT1200Z Supere Ténéré that last year in the Flinders Ranges was box-stock blue, but for this year's Tragics Run has been decked out in a wicked yellow/black colour scheme that pays homage to one of Yamaha's most legendary of all Grand Prix racers, King Kenny Roberts.
As the final touches were put on the bike this past week, we dropped in at AdventureMoto.com.au HQ to check out the yellow beast and snap a few photos, as well as get the word from Wolfy on just what work has been done to the machine -- so hang onto your cheque-book and check it out:
+ Custom yellow/black paintwork by MotoPaint.
+ Waspworks custom tank graphics, screen adjuster and rear suspension link.
+ AltRider crash bars, rear luggage rack, bash plate, exhaust heat shield, rear brake master cylinder guard, universal joint guard, sidestand switch guard and sidestand foot.
+ Yamaha high screen, wind deflectors and headlight protector.
+ GYTR Slip-On muffler.
+ Barkbusters VSBars handlebars and VPS Barkbusters handguards.
+ Kaoko throttle cruise control.
+ PivotPegz Mark 3 footpegs.
+ The Little Trimmer (Castle Hill, NSW) custom carbon-look seat upholstery.
+ The Suspension Shop (SA): YSS progressive fork springs and valving, lengthened HyperPro rear shock with remote reservoir.
+ Kenda Big Block tyres.
+ 3BR USB Power Connector outlet.
+ Wolfman Genuine Side Racks and Dry Saddlebags (not shown in photo).

+ Rox Risers Vario bar riser kit (not shown in photo).
+ Double-Take mirrors (not shown in photo).
No doubt Wolfy's XT1200Z will have all our Super Ténéré riding Tragics drooling at the mouth, so get set to take a much closer look at it when we all arrive at Mount Panorama in a month's time to kick of the 2012 Ténéré Tragics ride – and don’t forget all the bolt-on goodies are available from AdventureMoto.com.au, so check 'em out!
-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-01-30T18:25:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC MARK HAS A QUESTION ABOUT TYRES

Hi Clubby: I was hoping you could help me out with my tyre selection for the upcoming Tenere Tragics Mountain to Mountain Ride. I'm riding my 2010 Super Tenere and my friend is riding his 2010 XT660Z from Lake Macquarie, NSW, and we're looking for a tyre that will allow good highwway speed as well as being capable of perfoming well on the ride you have set out for us. Your help would be much appreciated

-- Mark, Tenere Tragic #45

Okay, Mark, my tip is to go with knobbies for the ride. Sure, you won't get the same mileage out of knobby tyres as you will with a more 50/50 oriented dual-purpose tyre, but as I have said many times, that's a trade-off you have to pay to have better traction and a more confidence-inspiring ride in the dirt and on the gravel.

For the 660, I have run Dunlop 606s, Pirelli MT21s and Kenda Trackmasters on our TRAIL ZONE XT660Z Tenere Project Bike and honestly, I have found them much of the muchness. It's your call on what you can get re price and availability. Any of these tyres, I never get more than 5,000km out of a rear on the 660. And just make sure you run heavy-duty tubes to reduce the chance of punctures.

For the 1200, I have been running Mitas E10s on our XT1200Z Supere Tenere Project Bike and get just over 4,000km out of a rear -- and that's being 'respectful' on the throttle. Woop it up and you can chew through the rear heaps quicker! Other options are Metzeler Karoos or Kenda Big Blocks. If you really want a rear that will give you more road mileage, then maybe look at running a knobby up front (for better steering and grip in the dirt and on the gravel) and a Heidenau on the rear.

When you're shopping for tyres, I have to give our Tenere Tragics ride sponsor Steve Smith from AdventureMoto.com.au a plug, as he has heaps of experience with all these different tyres and can offer you heaps more feedback and help you make the choice. He is also offering FREE SHIPPING on any tyres purchased by Tenere Tragics, so give him a call on 1300 46 66 86 and tell him you are a Tenere Tragic and that I said for you to call.

After all that, be sure to carry a pump and don't be afraid to adjust your tyre pressures up and down on the ride: go higher on the tarmac (say 36 psi on the 1200) and go lower on the off-road sections (say 26psi on the 1200), especially if/when it gets wet! Tyre pressure can make a massive difference to your ride, especially in the fire-trail sections we will get on days 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the Tenere Tragics ride.

Hope that all helps -- yell out if you have any more questions.

-- Clubby, Tenere Tragic #1

2012-01-26T01:44:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC JOHN GETS SET FOR THE LONG HAUL

Hi Clubby & Tania: It's Australia Day and it's time to put the engine back in after the drama of dropping it on the floor! I'm a bit nervy about any more mishaps, as there is no time left for me to get more parts from Japan. Anyway, I am looking forward to another 15,000 kilometre ride on this old bike, because she is such pleasure to do big kay trips on!

Looking forward too seeing all the other Tragics again – and thanks to you guys for all your efforts in putting the while event together.

-- John, Ténéré Tragic #36

Oh, John, we just love that photo of your workshop and your chassis hanging off the stand on one side, the motor up on the bench on the other, and a whole stack of work to be done in between! Burn the midnight oil, son, and get that ol' banger firing on all cylinders and then get set for your long, long haul all the way from the Northern Territory - that's the Ténéré spirit. Will be great to see you again at Mount Panorama in a few weeks time!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-01-18T21:30:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC MIKE & THE DOWNSIDE OF ADVENTURE RIDING

Hi Clubby & Tania: The title above says it all: I went down and out, as in unconscious for two days, following an accident on the Tenere on a trip to Camerons Corner and back from the Sunny Coast in Qld last September. The dirt road past Goodooga NSW had big patches of bull dust to contend with and I should have taken more care but the Tenere had new suspension, I was running a steering damper and it was not what I considered a bad dirt road. I cannot remember the crash (nor do I wish to) and have only my riding partner, Michael on a DRZ 400, and the Police Report, to fill in the gaps. What appears to have happened was the front wheel was lost in a bull dust hole followed by a highside, face plant and unconscious state. Damage to my helmet indicated a heavy impact and this did not do my head and neck much good. I was jokingly told later that I would have to get a new licence as I was now 10mm shorter. So it was an ambulance ride to Lightning Ridge ($1,600) and then because of my unconscious condition, the Royal Flying Doctors (RFDS) flew me to Dubbo to be reassessed with the intention of flying me to Sydney if needed. Luckily the trip to Sydney was not required, as after further assessment my brain was located, although my wife still thinks it's missing.

Things the crash highlighted:

1). Do not travel alone in isolated areas. The dingoes would have had me before I became conscious again two days later.

2). Carry a first-aid kit and most importantly an understanding of how to use it.

3). Particular attention to the question of the removal of a helmet would be handy. (Refer to TRAIL ZONE issue #38 and the article entitled 'The Accidental Truth'.)

4). Have good communications with you. I am now looking to purchase my own satellite phone.

5). If the sh*t really hits the fan there is a willing bunch of people to come to your rescue if needed. They include the Ambulance, RFDS and fellow riders (thanks Michael).

6). All my riding gear was cut off me, so give some thought to insurance cover for this gear.

7). Wear good safety gear. My Leatt neck brace got a special mention, as it was seen as a potential lifesaver.

I now tend to drool for no particular reason. But an unexpected result has been the impact on my golf handicap. I am a hacker with a handicap of 26, but it has now been reduced to 22 in the last four weeks as I no longer slice the ball, the most common hacker trait. Overall an excellent result but I would not recommend this golf improvement technique to anyone else.

The end result has been 10 weeks off bikes, but some of that was because the Ten was also in hospital.

I will be back for the March 2012 Tragics ride though. See you and my fellow Tragics there!!!

-- Mike, 85% Tenere Tragic #19

PS: The picture attached is my last memory from the ill-fated trip.

Wow, Mike, that's a sobering reminder that along with all the good times we enjoy on our bikes, hard times can be laying in wait around the next corner or over the next crest or in the next patch of bull dust. We're real glad to know you came through okay and are rapt we'll be catching up again in March ... but just try not to dribble in anyone's meal at the Welcome dinner, okay?! Now get back on the fairways and knock another couple of points off that handicap.

-- Clubby, Tenere Tragic #1

2012-01-13T20:44:00.000-08:00

FOR-SALE: 1983 YAMAHA XT600ZL TÉNÉRÉ

A TRAIL ZONE reader has just emailed us with details of a 1983 Yamaha XT600ZL Ténéré that he has for-sale. Looks like the mighty beast needs a bit of work, and she’s a long, long way away from most of us, but if you’re on the look-out for a ZL, here's your chance, so check out the details below.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

For-Sale: Yamaha Ténéré: It’s a 1983 model. The engine as you see it is not the original, but I do have another engine in parts that could be the original. Current engine works however it has a crack in the left crank housing which leaks oil. Have a spare housing. Comes with a box of bits and pieces including an original seat rack. Bike is unregistered. Have just run out of time and room to proceed with this project. Hope someone else can take it on. Have a spare rusted dented tank, manifold and mono shock and spring as well. I’m in Broome, WA, so freight could be an issue, however, I got it up from Melbourne about three years ago. Could tell you what’s wrong with it but its easier to say: 1983 Tenere with the 30 year anniversary coming up! For further details, please contact CRAIG SPICER on mobile (0421) 111 565 or email craig@spiceraccountingcom.au

2012-01-10T19:05:00.001-08:00

SNEAK PEEK: KING KENNY TO RIDE TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS???

So there I was, supremely confident that my cherished XT1200Z Super Ténéré TRAIL ZONE Project Bike really stood out from the crowd of Ténéré Tragics with its one-of-a-kind Euro-spec white bodywork and spiffy red Waspworks.com graphics ... when this photo rolled into the Ténéré Tragics Inbox.

What the?!

It's a spy pic from outside the paint booth at the workshop of proud Ténéré Tragics ride sponsor AdventureMoto.com.au and by the looks of it, the Wolfman's team has been going hard at it on his 1200, painting it Kenny Roberts yellow and decorating it with a black Waspworks.com graphics kit.

Lookin' good, Wolfy! Can't wait to see it in the flesh at Mount Panorama for the start of the Tragics Run.

Now, how many more of you Tragics have got something special planned for the ride? Send your photos to teneretragics@trailzone.com.au and we'll bang 'em up for all to see!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-01-06T02:36:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC CHARLIE HAS A LITTLE WORK TO DO ...

Dear Clubby: Thank you for sending the latest 2012 Ténéré Tragics bulletin. My bike is dubbed the Drednought - it got its name from a friend who commented that,"It's as big as a bloody battleship!" So after that I named it The Drednought. Unfortunatly, latley it has been acting like it was at the battle of Juteland with the ship's telegraph stuck firmly on "make smoke". I pulled the head off to investigate and it turned out to be the valve stem seals on the zorst valves. So the head was sent away for a head job. The barrel still had the hone marks visible and still well within the limits, so that got a quick hone and new rings. The rest of it was just me looking and saying to myself, "Well ... while I've got this off ..." I have now locked myself out of the garage and will only go back in when all the parts etc get here (by the end of next week hopefully!). So I have a bit of work in front of me but plenty of time to do it.. I'm looking forward to the ride and the people. Are there any other REAL Super Teneres coming on the run? Anyhow see you at the gig.

-- Charlie Brown, Ténéré Tragic

Now that's what we like, Charlie, the sound of a confident Ténéré owner who has no worries about getting his mighty beast back together and making the start of the next Ténéré Tragics run! But judging by the photo, heck, you've got some work ahead of you, son. Now, XT750 Super Ténérés are surprisingly thin on the ground on the Tragics run, so you can expect to be in a rather exclusive clique when we all arrive at Mount Panorama in two months time. In the meantime, get back on the T-bars and get that bike together!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-01-03T02:48:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC PETER SPOTS A CLASSIC TANK

Hello Clubby & fellow Tragics: Looking forward to catching up with you all in March and it certainly looks like it will be a fun week.

I was out for a ride this week and thought I had better take Clubby’s recent advice and stop near a house of worship and thank the gods of moto ... not so much to pray for not shredding tyres, but rather in my case to keep them inflated!

Now with regards to the tank search for the 600s, I think I have located one on the way back from a trip around the Victorian high country last year (okay, it is a bit secondhand, see photo). It was located at the Seldom Seen road house on the Barry Way (was that Simon and Garfunkle on the iPod)).

Anyway, all the best for the new year and see you soon at The Mountain.

-- Peter, Ténéré Tragic #51

Well spotted, Pete, for sure, as that tank and frame is coated in a fair old layer of rust, so you've done well to even recognise the ruins of what was obviously once a very fine adventure riding weapon! You know what else you've done? All our first-model XT600ZL riding Tragics will be racing one another to Seldom Seen to start a bidding war on the wreck! Okay, I gotta keep going. See you at Mount Panorama.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2012-01-03T02:26:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC DAVE MISSES A GEAR?

Hello Captain: Seasons greetings to all at TZ and hope you’ve found lots of quality touring accessories under the Christmas tree! I must have been really good this year because under my Christmas tree was a new gearbox cluster. The old one is pictured. Is this just what every ZL owner needs -- or what?! Some racing against the clock will be needed to get it sorted for Ténéré Tragics 2012 (although this seems to be a common thread amongst all us ZL guys!).

Now, Clubby, you’ve gone and got us all excited with the latest Tragics bulletin and those fantastic recce shots. Looks like a fabulous ride and I can’t wait, although I expect there could be a few gnarly bits along the way you may have omitted from your latest round of notes ... come on, ’fess up Clubby!

The route-sheet theory is a great idea, especially in flat tank-bag form, as you know there’s not much room on the flight deck of an early Tenny, so this will be appreciated by the pre ’88 riders I’m sure. Once again it seems your planning of the TT ride will be outstanding and no easy feat I’m sure, so a big thanks in advance to yourself and Tania.

Here’s hoping everyone has a very safe and fun 2012 Tragics ride.

-- Dave B, Ténéré Tragic #8

Thanks for your great note, Dave, and yes, every other ’83 XT600ZL Ténéré owner is going to be mighty jealous of your shiny new gearbox cluster. Get her fitted and get her put to good use, mate! Now, as I said in the most recent official pre-ride Bulletin sent to our Tragics registered for the 2012 ride, the course is shaping up to be pretty good. It’s all just real sweet Ténéré riding country ... all 1,750km of it! Honestly, I can’t wait, just like the rest of you. The route-sheets are a lot of work right now, but they will work just fine -- the important thing, though, is everyone has to be sure to follow them precisely! I've learnt many a lesson from all these self-navigation events I've ridden in the USA and NZ over the years and the critical thing is to navigate yourself, understand the route-sheet instructions and don’t just follow the bike in front of you -- if he's lost, you will soon be, too! Now, as for ‘gnarly’, mate, I need to be careful what I say ... last year I said the rocky bit out the back of Arkaroola went for just three kilometres -- and we all know how far off the mark I was with that one ... oops! Look forward to catching you in Bathurst in a few weeks time!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-12-20T13:57:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC COLIN SAYS TANKS A LOT!

G’day Clubby: Progress is being made in converting the Bushpig from championship winning reliability trial weapon back to supreme vintage adventure tourer. The old girl is currently up on the bench getting a full service plus a few repairs and modifications. I have been able to find a ‘new' secondhand airbox to replace the original which has been more duct tape than plastic for the best part of this year's reliability trial season. New handlebars and Barkbusters are also to be fitted to replace the existing bent and battered ones. I have almost finished making up a set of frames to mount some hard panniers -- so no burning saddlebags this time! -- and there are still a lot of other mods and repairs to get done before March.

Russ’s recent mention of his fuel tank dramas seems to be a common story with Ténérés. However, I have managed to find the Holy Grail, a NNOS (Nearly New Old Stock) fuel tank, through knowing the right people and being in the right place at the right time. I was talking with Fred, a long time acquaintance and fellow reliability trial competitor, prior to the start of the Clare MCC Beryl Pearce trial in September, when the topic turned to the beat-up condition of the fuel tank on the Bushpig. Fred mentioned that he had a tank for a Ténéré sitting in his shed and asked if I was interested? Considering the battered condition of my tank, the answer was always going to be a resounding "Yes!"

A few weeks later we meet up again while we were both officiating at the Australian Moto Trials Championships at Eden Valley. Not being one to let an opportunity pass, I followed Fred home after the event to have a look at the tank.

The tank had sat in its box in Fred’s shed since he bought it from Pitmans Yamaha in late 1985 to fit onto a TT600 he was preparing for the 1986 Wynns (Australian) Safari. It seems that the tank came off of a Pitmans sponsored Ténéré that had been ridden in the original 1985 Safari and was removed before the bike was sold. Fred found it was too much work to try and fit to the TT600, so it was consigned back to its box and had sat gathering dust in his shed for the last 30 years.

Now, it's not perfect; having some stone chips on the front edges and a small dent, but it is rust-free and came with a new fuel tap and fuel cap. Even in its current condition it is far too good to put onto the Bushpig, so it will be kept in its box on the shelf in MY shed alongside the box containing a full set of new mudguards, side covers, headlight cowl etc to wait until I am finished abusing the old girl and get the time to restore her to original condition.

-- Colin, Ténéré Tragic #6.

That's a great yarn, Colin. We just love the way all these parts and pieces for old Ténérés keep popping up out of the woodwork. Take good care of that tank and we looking forward to seeing you at Mount Panorama in a couple of months.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-12-20T02:54:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC MARC SEEKS SOME ADVICE

Hi Clubby & Tania: I have attached a picture of my Ténéré and was wondering about a few things: I have been riding bikes most of my life and this will be my very first adventure run and it's on dirt so I'm very excited about it. But I am not sure what is required to take along on the Run and can you please recommend what you would take as in bike gear? I will be purchasing a front tyre and bike pants from Steve at AdventureMoto but I'm not sure what else I would need?

-- Marc, Ténéré Tragic

G'day Marc and welcome aboard the Ténéré Tragics express! For your first big adventure ride you'll be leaping in at the deep end but the good thing is you'll be amongst a pack of riders on the same bike as you and all brought together by a common bond: the Yamaha Ténéré. Now, to give you a few words of advice, let's get into it: Choose dirt-oriented tyres because the majority of the Tragics Run next year will be on dirt and you'll have a much better ride with tyres that offer as much grip as possible when you need it most -- Steve at Adventure Moto.com.au will be able to steer you right with tyre choice. Then make sure you fit heavy-duty tubes to reduce the chance of copping a puncture, but if you do get a flat, you need to be able fix it, either by replacing the tube with a spare you carry, or repairing the tube with a puncture repair kit. And to do that, you need to be able to get the wheels out of the bike (the XT660Z doesn't come with tools to help you remove the wheels! So check out Profastproducts.com.au as they offer a nifty front axle removal tool), as well as carrying tyre levers and a pump or CO2 bottles, so make sure you get all this sorted before the ride. You should also carry a spare oiled foam air filter element for your bike, so you can make a swap mid-ride, as chances are it's going to be dusty. It's a good idea to carry spare front brake, clutch and gear levers, just in case they get busted in a fall. Carry a small can of chain lube so you can lube the chain each day. As for you, wear a Camelbak-type hydration pack so you can keep up your fluids while you ride, as chances are it will be hot. Proper adventure riding gear including a jacket with armour in the shoulders and elbows is a must, as are proper boots. Try to pack as light as possible, because experience always tells us all we take way more gear than we need: do a first sort of the gear you think you will need, then halve it! After all that, well, just bring a spirit of adventure ... and in the meantime, get out and rack up as many kilometres as you can to get bike-fit and hone your riding skills. We'll see you soon!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-12-20T02:48:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC NEIL’S JUNIOR TENERE???

Hi Clubby, I've just been doing some work on the old Ténéré, in readiness for next year's Tragics run. I recently found what I consider might be a very rare GT80 Tenere, in an old hay shed ... out the back of Giligulgul. Thought I'd send this photo in and see what you thought of it? Do you think I might be able to run it in next year's Tragics ride?

-- Neil, Ténéré Tragic #37

Now Neil, mate, if you don’t ride it in next year’s Mountain to Mountain Run, I sure will!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-12-20T02:37:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC DAVE HITS THE SAND DUNES

Hi Tania, Clubby and all the Tragics: I've been getting a fair bit of riding in on the old 3AJ Ténéré in preparation for next year's ride so the Super Ten 1200 has been feeling left out. I've recently had the suspension all rebuilt by Teknik which has made a huge difference, mainly because even though I have owned the bike since new in '88 I have never touched the suspension, not even an oil change for the front forks! So getting it sorted after 23 years has made it feel much better and an easier bike to ride. Other than that it's just regular oil and filter changes as well as wheel bearings, steering head bearings and brake pads.

Most of my rides lately have been with a group I like to call "Club KTM": they're a bunch of mates from the OffRoadExplorer.com forum. We've done a few rides through Yengo NP, up to the Watagans and an overnighter to Coolah Tops, as well as a bunch of day rides in the Blue Mountains closer to home.

One notable day out was up to Stockton Beach near Newcastle with my mate Chad on his F800GS and myself on the 600. We trailered the bikes up early one weekday morning knowing that we'd be too tired to bother riding the freeway home. Didn't really know what to expect up there, only ever doing it in the 4WD. We towed the bikes over the dunes to the beach and unloaded them but seeing the tyres sink into the soft sand was heart-wrenching and that was before I had my 118kg on the bike! We set off and I just gunned it, clicking up the gears, into third, on the pegs and it was like a boat coming onto the plane and in about half an hour we were getting used to it and only had a few low-speed falls for the day. I was surprised how much fun we had but also how much hard work it was. After a few hours we were stuffed, exhausted and muscles aching so we called it a day. We'll be back there again soon.

-- Dave, Ténéré Tragic

Nice one, Dave. Always good to hear about the ol' bangers getting freshened up and then put to good use. Riding Stockton on a pure dirt bike can be tough enough, let-alone doing it on a big-tanked adventure bike, so well done to you and Chad for having a play in the sand dunes on your adventure machines. We look forward to catching up again at Mount Panorama in March!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-12-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

BLOG: RECCE RIDE OF 2012 TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS COURSE IN THE CAN

I’ve just returned from a massive week in the saddle recce riding the course for our next TENERE TRAGICS Mountain to Mountain Run in the first week of March – and if I do say so myself, it’s shaping up to be pretty darn good!

I was super-lucky with the weather and managed to stay clear of the rains that have lashed much of NSW for the past couple of weeks – except for day one when some gnarly thunderstorms smashed the Blue Mountains as I made my way into Oberon after a long day’s loop from Bathurst – so I can certainly recommend the waterproofing on Klim’s Goretex gear!

As has been the case in recent months, the overwhelming memory from riding nearly the entire course is just how green large parts of NSW are at the moment – some of the views along the way of the rolling green countryside are just beautiful. I really hope it stays that way – although deep down I know summer has to kick in sooner or later and the temperatures will warm up and some of the green colour will start to dry off.

While I’ve been away a couple more riders have signed on for the 2012 Tenere Tragics ride, bringing the tally of participants to just over 60, meaning we've still got ten spaces left to fill. Those spots look set to be filled over coming weeks, so come March 4 we should have have a full pack of 75 thundering Teneres and Super Teneres as we descend on Mount Panorama at Bathurst for a mighty week of Tenere action!

If you want to get in on the action, email us at teneretragics@trailzone.com.au and request a Registration pack and then sign up and get into it.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-12-18T18:56:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: TRAGIC RICHARD’S BIRDSVILLE/INNAMINCKA ADVENTURE RIDE

Hi Clubby & Tania: I thought I would flick you guys an update for the Ténéré Tragics blog page. Myself (2010 XT660Z Tenere) and a mate (XT660R) have just returned from a two week adventure ride. We travelled over 4,200km from Melbourne via the Flinders Ranges to Marree, completed the Birdsville Track with the detour including the ferry ride over the Cooper.

We spent a couple of days in Birdsville whilst dipping a toe into the Simpson Desert. The hot season is starting up there with 44 degrees reached upon arrival in Birdsville (which was just a little too hot!!). We then headed down to Innamincka via Cordillo Downs and spent a couple of days there. We swam in the Cooper Creek, visited the Dig Tree, Burke’s place of death etc etc.

We were told by several bikers and 4WDers at Innamincka to avoid the Cameron Corner route to Tibooburra so we took mining roads via Epsilon, Santos and then onwards to Tibooburra. They turned out to be great roads and the less explored route was a real bonus.

The Simpson, Cordillo Downs track and Innamincka were the highlight of the trip and I would go again in a heartbeat, just not so close to the hot season. Camping in such heat is not nice.

Apart from the heat, this has been the best adventure ride so far. The scenery and wildlife are just so beautiful. The later half became a competition between emus and us. Who would hit whom? The emus tried their best to collide with us, but we learnt very quickly, if an emu is standing still – power up, if they are running, slow right down. They’re amazingly large but stupid birds and boy do we have some great stories about them.

My Ténéré did not miss a beat and was surprisingly good in the short time we spent in the Simpson. The only bike problem we had was some chain issues less than 150km from home.

I’m looking forward to the 2012 Ténéré Tragics ride - see you then!

-- Richard, Ténéré Tragic #5

Thanks for the ride report, Richard. Definitely sounds like it was hot out there, for sure. Here’s hoping conditions should be a little bit cooler when the 2012 Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run fires into life in the first week of March. We look forward to seeing you again then.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-12-01T13:00:00.000-08:00

TRAIL MAIL: THE TENERE BUILDS ARE ON!

Hi Clubby: I picked up the Tenere tanks today and the good news is the 34L has been brought back from the brink. Meanwhile the '88 tank I bought in WA had a little bog but was otherwise very good, while the other '88 tank will make a good spare or at least fetch a good price on ebay once painted.

Looking at my list of acquired parts and given it gets a new engine, new plastics and paint, hydro-blasted fork legs and paint, repainted exhaust, replated nuts and bolts, new wheels and brake discs, the only thing that isn't getting done on the '88 is to bead blast the frame and swingarm and repaint!

Do you dare me to go all the way?

-- Lance 'Russ' Turnely, ORE webmaster & Tenere Tragic

Now, Russ, of course I dare you! That's what mates are for. I'm just stoked to finally see some movement in the ORE Garage and some of your fleet of various Teneres showing some progress. You can't possibly argue with me when I say, they have been a long time coming ... Now, as for all you other Tenere Tragics out there building bikes for next year's fast approaching Tenere Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run, let's see 'em! Send us a photo or two and some info on how you're going with the restos and we'll get the details up here for all the Tragics to see. Email me at teneretragics@trailzone.com.au and we'll take care of the rest.

-- Clubby, Tenere Tragic #1

2011-11-21T00:56:00.000-08:00

MAIL CALL: FROM THE UK, LOOKING TO HIRE A TENERE

Hi Clubby: My brother in London, who is a bona-fide Tenere Tragic, is asking if he can participate in the 2012 Tenere Tragics Run? He obviously can't bring his XT660 out for the event and was wondering if you would allow him to join on a hired 660 or 1200? So the question now is, do you know of any nice people he could hire a Tenere from for the event, either in Sydney or Brisbane? He had an '85 XT600 which was stolen and he bought a 660 a couple of years ago. He is considering a 1200 at the moment. Look forward to hearing from you mate.
-- Dave Smith, Tenere Tragic #35

Would be awesome to have your brother along for the next Tenere Tragics Run, Dave, for sure, especially if he's coming all the way from the UK. We've put a few feelers out and the only lead we've got for an outlet that hires Teneres in based in Melbourne: just Google Garner's Motorcycles and apparently they have a wide and varied fleet of bikes to hire, which includes both Yamaha XT660Z and XT1200Z models. Best of luck with it!
-- Clubby, Tenere Tragic #1

2011-11-21T00:51:00.000-08:00

MAIL CALL: TRAGIC DARRYL WANTS TO SET-UP HIS 1200'S FLIGHT DECK

Hi there Clubby: Thanks for the information pack and rego pack for next year’s Tenere Tragics ride, I can't wait. What I'm after is some information regarding your new 1200. In particular the new handlebars and the Barkbusters. I ride trials, Renthal fat bars and find the standard bars on the Tenere just too wide and just feel strange. I spoke to Waspworks and they mentioned bars and risers, then saw the white ride you have, with the gold bars and new Barkbusters. Can you please help me: the Tenere is an awesome bike, just needs some better feeling bars for me. Any info would be fantastic
-- Darryl Boorer, Tenere Tragic

Thanks for signing up to be part of the Tenere Tragics 2012 ride, Darryl - will be good! Re your questions about the flight deck on my XT1200Z Super Tenere, detailed below is what I did in notes I sent to the crew at Barkbusters HQ in Wollongong, as they have been getting requests from other 1200 riders after reading about my bike. Was not a straight bolt-on operation and some grinding/tweaking involved, but I am more than happy with the result.
Pre-amble: the stock XT1200Z bars were too road-oriented for my liking, too wide and too swept back. After fitting Barkbusters VSBars and risers to our XT660Z Tenere Project Bike last year, I was keen to replicate this flight deck on the 1200. I like to stand up a lot on dirt, and like to get weight forward over the front end of the bike to help steering on the dirt, plus I wanted the 1200's ergos to feel more 'dirt bike' than the stock set-up offered. I was confident the Barkbusters flight deck would achieve the goals I was after.
Bar risers were required to raise the VSBars due to their much lower rise than the stock bars. I was hoping to get a set of those wicked mega-adjustable Rox risers, but they never arrived in time for the 2011 Tenere Tragics ride. Had to make do with a cheap and cheery riser kit from the local bike shop: ended up with full lift via all spacers provided: 35mm lift in all. Note: no issues with cable lengths at all.
On the throttle side of the bars, the stock throttle tube is mega-long, like, road-bike long! So we cut the throttle tube down by 20mm to match the length of the off-road TAG grips I like to run, and with that done and Barkbusters bar end weight used, all controls fitted sweetly and easily on the throttle side of the VSBars. Front brake lever also fitted easily inside the VPS Barbuster alloy bar. Too easy this side!
Little more work required on the clutch side to get all controls to fit: 1). Dr Phil took the grinder to the clutch lever master cylinder and ground off the edge where it buts against the mirror perch mount. Doing this picked up a few millimetres. 2). Dr Phil also took the grinder to the ball on the end of the stock clutch lever and ground away most of the ball end, so as to give us clearance inside the VPS Barkbusters alloy bar. With these mods done, all controls on the clutch side fitted, plus, importantly, we had 5mm clearance of the front brake hose from the inside of the Barkbusters inner mount clamp.
As stated, no issues with cable lengths, and there is also a mountain of clearance beneath the bars from the tank on full lock, and heaps of clearance of the screen at the other end -- note I run the Waspworks/MotorradWorks screen adjuster set-up.
Mission accomplished!
Let us know how you go with getting your 1200's flight deck set-up.
-- Clubby, Tenere Tragic #1

2011-10-04T21:15:00.000-07:00

2011 TENERE TRAGICS ON MOTORBIKIN' 5 DVD

Attention all Ténéré Tragics: the new Motorbikin' 5 DVD is out and it features a chunky segment on the 2011 Ténéré Tragics Run to the Rocks in the Flinders Ranges.

The segment follows Phil Hodgens and Dalby Moto's Craig Hartley on their mission just to get out to the Tragics event from south-east Queensland, and then their even more eventful return trip home ... in which the aforementioned Mr Hartley Esq manages to punch the guts out of his XT1200Z Super Ténéré in a rocky creek bed not too far from Arkaroola, thus dumping its engine oil.

Then, some time later in the middle of nowhere, he manages to thump a rock and flat-spot both front and rear rims at the same time -- thank heavens he was carrying tubes, huh?

But, of course, the mighty XT1200Z Super Ténéré carries him through and the pair eventually do make it home.

For more details on what is a cracker adventure bike riding DVD and to order your copy of the Motorbikin' 5 DVD, check out the www.motorbikin.com.au web site.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-10-02T20:25:00.000-07:00

MAIL CALL: CHAMPIONSHIP STATUS FOR TRAGIC COLIN & HIS '83 TÉNÉRÉ!

On September 17 I rode in the seventh and final round of the SA Reliability Trial Series, the Beryl Pearses Reliability Trial, which was run by the Clare MCC (my local club). It had been 18 years since the Clare MCC had run a reliability trial and everyone was eagerly looking forward to the event. The course comprised six competitive sections ranging from three to 10km in length spaced over a lap of 136km.

Once again I had entered on the trusty ’83 Ténéré, and in the spirit of the event I rode to the Main Control at the Clare Showground instead of putting the old girl on a trailer for the nine kilometre journey. I had drawn number 31, and was the first clubman rider out onto the course at 1:31pm, following hot on the heels of the Expert Solo riders. As I was still nursing a right boot full of broken toes from the Theo NixonTtrial at Mallala a month before, my plan was to just cruise around and enjoy a good day's riding.

The first paddock section was six kilometres in length, and started on a hill which gave a great view out over the section. Having arrived early into the start control I was able to watch a lot of the Expert Solos ride the section. Much of this section was flat-out over open pasture on the side of the hill, with the occasional twisty bit in and out of the gum trees around the creek in the bottom of the paddock. You know it is fast when you see and hear riders approaching turns tapped out in top gear. My riding was a bit more sedate, although I will admit to scaring myself at one point when I looked down at my speedo to find that I was doing over 100kph in fourth gear as I approached one turn.

The second paddock was three kilometres long and was a tight one over some rocky hills through stringy-bark trees. I don’t think I got any higher than second gear in this paddock. It was quite hard work try to muscle the Ténéré through the trees and up/down the hills. Having over 25 litres of fuel onboard didn’t help much either.

Paddock section three was four kilometres of narrow track, twisting and turning through a couple of paddocks on the hills around Barney’s (one of the organisers) house. The high point of this section was a sharp, bumpy right-left combination of turns coming down a steep hill towards Barney’s house. There were hazard markers in place and we were warned at the rider's briefing: get it wrong and you would land on the roof of Barney’s shed and from there fall into his spa. Any bike Barney found either on his shed roof or in his spa would be his!

Paddock section four was five kilometres long and had a true Clare Valley flavour. From the start you made a flat-out run around the edge of a vineyard before heading into a couple of paddocks of rolling grassy hills with the occasional large gum tree used for turning markers. The course twisted and turned up, down and across the hills and was quite fast, with a lot of 'Rollie Rocks' in the grass to keep you on your toes.

Paddock section five, at 10km, was the longest paddock on the course. This section was in an area called Camel's Hump, which is an apt description of the big barren, rocky hills with a covering of native pasture and a few stands of Black Boys. Fast wasn’t the word for this section, there has to be another word that means faster than fast. The only thing that made you slow down, apart from fear, were the numerous wash-outs and small gullies that the course crossed and occasionally ran along.

Paddock section six was eight kilometres of similar fast riding to paddock section five.

At the end of the lap, I surprised the officials and the main control by arriving before any of the Expert Solo riders had clocked in. Being a local, I was asked serious questions relating to cutting the course on the transport section from the final paddock section back to the main control. I just pointed to the Ténéré’s fuel tank, and said that with the fuel I had onboard, I could probably ride three laps of the course without having to refuel. That’s when it dawned on the officials; I had come straight to the control, while all the Experts had gone to the local servo that was the official fuel stop to fill up.

After a brief lay-over, I headed out for my second lap at 5:20pm. With the sun going down and darkness approaching my aim was to just maintain steady pace and make it to the finish without hurting myself or the bike. The lap was fairly uneventful, with the exception of losing my lights a few kilometres into the fifth paddock section. Being plunged into darkness while riding cross-country isn’t that much fun, but I managed to pull up with hitting anything. It only took a few minutes to find and fix a broken earth wire and once that was done I pressed on to the end of the lap.

I arrived back at the main control at about 8:40pm, happy to have finished another reliability trial on the Ténéré, and was presented with a commemorative stubby holder. After hanging around the finish for a while chatting with other riders and supporters, I put all my gear back on and rode the Ténéré back home.

So, after seven rounds the trusty Ténéré had taken me to a resounding Class M victory in both the Series and State Championship with the following results;

Second place Class M, Rd 1, The Phil Haydon 6hr Trial

Second place Class M, Rd 2, The Mike Connor 8hr Trial

First place Class M, Rd 3, The Robertstown 2 Day Trial

First place Class M, Rd 5, The Theo Nixon 6hr Trial

First place Class M, Rd 7, The Beryl Pearses 6hr Trial

Even though a 1983 XT600ZL Ténéré is probably one of the most inappropriate bikes to try and ride in these types of event, its shear reliability and indestructible nature saw it survive nearly 2,000km of competition/abuse with nothing more than a broken front mudguard, a bent foot-peg, a broken earth wire and a few more scratches on the fuel tank.

The trusty Ténéré has now been retired from competition. It will be given a full service and prepared for the forthcoming 2012 Tenere Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run.

Looking forward to seeing you all in Bathurst!

-- Colin Jay, Tenere Tragic #6

Congratulations and well done, Colin, on an impressive result! You're an inspiration to all your fellow Tragics: remind me to remind everyone at the Welcome Dinner at Bathurst at the start of next year's Tragics run to shout you a drink - you deserve it!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-09-27T03:15:00.000-07:00

MAIL CALL: FIRST-EVER HUSBAND AND WIFE TO JOIN THE TRAGICS!

Dear Clubby: Please find attached registration forms for my husband, Graham, and myself to participate in the 2012 Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run. I would presume female riders are able to attend? I have been riding for 30 years and have owned my XTZ660 Ténéré for four years.

Graham and I have just completed a month on the road going out to Innaminka, Camerons Corner, down the Strez, to Hawker and then spending three days riding around the Flinders Ranges, What AWESOME riding! We covered all the tracks you guys did on the first Ténéré Tragics Run. We then rode from Hawker over to Coober Pedy where we put on new tyres (they were a bit worn after 4,500km). From Coober Pedy we headed to William Creek, then Maree, up the Birdsville Track and then, sadly, home. We did 7,333km and I LOVED every minute of it.

I would absolutely love to be part of the Tragics ride in 2012.

-- Janine Hannat, Ténéré Tragic #tba

Welcome into the Ténéré Tragics fold, Janine! And you, too, Graham. If you had such a good time on your outback trip, then you're definitely going to enjoy the ride we've got planned for next March. And hey, congrats on being the first-ever female Ténéré Tragic!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-09-27T03:03:00.000-07:00

MAIL CALL: TRAGIC MIKE REPORTS IN

Hi Clubby: I’m completely over the moon that the 2012 Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run has finally been announced! Although I am already an official Ténéré Tragic after this year’s ride, I have been waiting and waiting, like so many other potential Ténéré Tragics, to see what 2012 holds.

I have convinced my very good friend Chris to enter for 2012, so here is his entry form all the way from New York, New York USA. Chris is just finalising a classic "The Americas: South to North" adventure ride on his R 1200 GS. He would have preferred a XT1200Z, but they hadn’t invented them when he bought his GS! Chris can’t wait to get back to the land of Oz and head for the Mountains with the Tragics. Anyone interested can catch his blog at wombatstravels.blogspot.com – Wombat is his GS! Here’s a photo of his beloved ’83, which he values so much he wouldn’t leave it with me while he was away!

I love the new 2012 Ténéré Tragics logo (which true Tragics would suggest is now in the ‘correct’ colours – I can hear the debate starting now). I just hope that Yamaha Australia sees the light and eventually brings the Euro white versions of the current Ténérés into the country sometime soon.

I now have to get back to rebuilding the donk in my second ’83 – I keep dreaming of shiny new gearsets, oversized forged pistons and high-volume oil pumps!

Congratulations on the release of details for the 2012 ride: we all know that this only comes after a lot of hard work and trail time. Keep up the great work on TRAIL ZONE, too!

In the Ténéré Spirit,

-- Mike Haysom, Ténéré Tragic #29

Thanks for the news, Mike, and congratulations to your mate Chris on becoming the Ténéré Tragics' first 'international' entrant! We're rapt to have him along and can't wait to hear some stories from his many epic adventures. Okay mate, get back into the workshop and get those '83s firing on all cylinders!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-09-27T02:40:00.000-07:00

NEWS: TRAGIC COLIN GETS THE HOLESHOT FOR 2012

With entries now rolling in thick and fast for the just announced 2012 Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run, we've been asked a few times now, who's been first to register for the ride?

Drum roll please ... the rider getting the holeshot on his fellow Tragics for 2012 is none other than Colin Jay from South Australia (pictured).

Clearly a true Ténéré Tragic, Colin’s registration form spewed out of our fax as soon as entries opened and we are stoked to report he will once again be lining up for the ride aboard his classic 1983 Yamaha XT600ZL Ténéré.

Hot on Colin's tail were fellow 2011 Tragics, Richard Puffe from Victoria (XT660Z) and Ken Henderson from Queensland (XT1200Z).

More than half the field from this year's Ténéré Tragics Run to the Rocks in the Flinders Ranges have already registered for the 2012 ride, and we're rapt to see Paul Sitar from WA and Peter Reading from Tasmania have signed on to make the long trek to the ride. Good on you, guys: we look forward to catching up with all our Ténéré Tragic brothers again!

In the meantime, keep those registrations rolling in and make sure you spread the word to fellow Ténéré riders to get in on the good times of the 2012 Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-09-19T21:02:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS ANNOUNCEMENT:

INTRODUCING THE 2012 TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS MOUNTAIN TO MOUNTAIN RUN!

Attention all Ténéré Tragics fans and followers: details have now been announced of the 2012 Ténéré Tragics Mountain to Mountain Run.

After the fabulous success of this year’s debut Ténéré Tragics Run to the Rocks in the Flinders Ranges of South Australia, the 2012 event will take the Tragics on a five-day run around south-east NSW, the ACT and into the northern edge of the Victorian high country.

The ride kicks off from Australia's home of motorsport, Mount Panorama at Bathurst (NSW) on Monday, March 5, and winds up five days later on Friday, March 9, at Jindabyne (NSW) on the edge of the Snowy Mountains.

In between, the wandering pack of Ténéré adventurers will make overnight stops in Oberon, Tumut and Batemans Bay as they follow a course that is tailor-made for putting Ténérés and Super Ténérés both old and new through their paces.

The registration fee for the 2012 Ténéré Tragics ride is $450 and this includes official welcome and farewell dinners, a showbag of exclusive Ténéré Tragics apparel and merchandise, a one-year subscription to TRAIL ZONE magazine, exclusive discount offers from ride sponsors that include Yamaha Motor Australia, Yamalube and AdventureMoto.com.au, daily route-sheets, daily riders briefing, sweep rider and sweep vehicle support and non-competitive event rider permit through Motorcycling Australia.

Accommodation recommendations at each overnight stop are also provided, for riders to make their own bookings to suit their budget requirements.

The Ténéré Tragics ride is open exclusively to Yamaha Ténéré and Super Ténéré machines (be they old or new) and already riders from NSW, Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia have registered for the 2012 event, such is the far-reaching enthusiasm of Ténéré fans right around the country. And yes, a flurry of riders on original 1983 XT600ZL Ténérés have already entered!

With entries for the 2012 Ténéré Tragics filling fast, please email the ride organisers from TRAIL ZONE magazine at teneretragics@trailzone.com.au to request full details and a registration form to be sent to you.

Or by all means call the TRAIL ZONE office on (02) 9905 9663 for more information.

We look forward to seeing you there!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1.

teneretragics@trailzone.com.au

2011-08-16T16:19:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

THE THINGS YOU DO FOR A PLASTIC TROPHY!

On Saturday (August 13) I rode my 1983 Ténéré in the Theo Nixon Six Hour (the fifth round of the SA Reliability Trial Series), which was run near Mallala on the Adelaide Plains. The course comprised nine competitive special/paddock sections of two to ten kilometres long spaced out over a lap of 130km. The paddock sections were in great condition due to the rain that had fallen during the week and put just enough moisture into the ground to prevent any dust, without turning it into mud. The paddocks were a mixture of mallee scrub, salt bush flats, red loam sand hills and even a couple of excursions onto some not quite dry salt/clay pans.

Through a 'strange' quirk of luck the eight solo riders from my club (Clare MCC) all drew consecutive numbers in the 'random' ballot for starting numbers, so the ride was quite a social occasion, with everyone having a good time as we waited for our 'minutes' at the start of the paddock sections.

I was having a great ride and all was going well until I had a bit of an incident in the ninth (last) paddock of the first lap. This paddock section was a seven kilometre run through some medium density mallee scrub. It was about 4:30 in the afternoon and with the sun starting to set, visibility was crap riding in and out of bright sunlight and heavy shade. About a kilometre or so into the section, I was powering out of a reasonably tight left hand corner in second gear, when there was a God almighty thump to my right foot. After a lot of swearing, the pain subsided (well, my foot when numb) and l rode on slowly to the finish of the paddock, and then back along the final transport section to the main control. After a 15 to 20 minute lay-over at the main control/fuel dump, I was still able to kickstart the bike, so I headed out and rode the second lap rather carefully. I rode the last paddock a lot slower than on the first lap, and kept a good look-out to see if I could find what it I had hit. It turns out that I had hit a descent sized log/fallen branch about 15 to 20cm in diameter and about three to four metres in length, that was right on the edge of the track.

So ... foot versus log -- guess which won? You got it, the log won!

-- Colin Jay, Ténéré Tragic #6

Now, Col, there is always only one winner in the age-old contest between logs and feet ... and that's the timber! So what was the final prognosis on the toes? Any broken or just black and blue all over?! Keep that ol' banger firing -- and thanks for the report and photos!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-07-26T14:04:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS ALERT!

'83 XT600ZL TÉNÉRÉ ON EBAY NOW

Okay all you Tragics with a hankering to add the most prized of all Ténérés to your fleet, another '83 XT600ZL has just popped up on eBay. She looks like she needs a bit of work – well, maybe more than a bit – and she doesn't have any rego, but hey, the nuts and bolts look to be there ... except for the hard to come by left sideplate!

Here's the link so punch it into your URL, and like I always say, bid to buy!

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/1983-Yamaha-XT600Z-Tenere-/320733880920

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-07-18T17:56:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC MIKE ANSWERS YOUR '83 TÉNÉRÉ QUESTIONS!

Hi Clubby & Tania: Trust you guys are keeping well. I thought I would offer up some advice for recent questions posed by Ténéré enthusiasts on the Ténéré Tragics blog page:

For Glenn: I can’t help too much with Glenn’s radiator issues. With a part this complex Genuine parts are best, unless you can find a top-notch repairer to pass judgement on its repairability. This model didn’t go to the USA (so no price joy) and European prices (and shipping) are worse than here. Maybe fleaBay – I saw a complete XTZ660 frame, rad and engine (no bodywork or wheels/suspension) on there the other day. Check out Item 300577794335 (Perth : $26 and 4d 16h to go, as at 0030 18-Jul). Bid high and bid late!

For Peter: 1. Oil Pump – Yamaha has three different designs for the pump. The '34L' type (cast into back housing) is the smallest capacity. It does the job and is OK until you need to rebuild the engine or replace the pump. If the engine is genuinely low klm this shouldn’t be necessary. DON’T TEAR DOWN THE ENGINE UNLESS IT SHOWS CLEAR SIGNS OF NEEDING IT. The main reason is that some parts are getting hard to find and disturbing things means some replacements will be necessary. The '1VJ' type increased the pump volume about 25 per cent, within the constraints of the surrounding parts and can be a direct replacement for the 34L pump. * Note: Neither early-style pump is now available as a spare part. The only new pump available is the '3AJ' type, which has a 50 per cent volume increase over the 34L. It requires a new offset pump gear and a modified drive shaft. These parts come as a kit (99999-01858-00) for about $400. Again, unless you are rebuilding the engine with a view to riding the bike a long way into really remote and tough terrain, with low speeds and high loads, there is little benefit to be gained for the cost. Fanatics do it anyway, but it really is a swag of money that could be better spent elsewhere. Much better to just concentrate on frequently changing top quality oils and genuine filters! You can buy a lot of those for $400. Correct monitoring of oil levels is also crucial as, if the level gets too low, the pump (any of them!) sucks aerated oil (foam) from the tank and the engine-side feed pressure drops to zero (with obvious results – a bigend rebuild and stuffed cam bearings). Of course, good oil isn’t available in the middle of the Sahara, so some extra pump capacity was Yamaha’s insurance policy for adverse conditions.

2. Frame Colour – Yamaha’s official frame colour is 'Fire Red' (from the genuine 39E parts catalog). I’m not sure what the closest powder colour is for powdercoat (PC). There are only four main suppliers in Oz – Jotun, Dulux, Interpon and PPG and each has a similar red colour (probably 'Post Office' Red). The colour of #616 (my 39E) is a pretty close match but redder than the other three frames I have. I will be researching this much closer soon as I prepare #132 for a frame coating. I wish I knew what powder/colour #616 is but the previous owner had the PC done in NSW somewhere. PC colour match is difficult because the film build and substrate have an effect and the Coater will not buy 20kg of powder just for you to do a colour match. If you want to PC then colour doesn’t really matter anyway. The original frame coating was sprayed, so PC won’t leave it ‘concourse’. The protection level with PC is better though. Just remember to put used bolts into ALL the threaded holes before you do it, and then thin out the main engine mount joint areas before assembling.

3. Other Tragics – I’m on the exact opposite side of Melbourne (Kilmore) from Peter, but I’m sure I’ll be on the way to the next Ténéree Tragics Run! If he has ANY questions about the early XTs either myself, Dave (Springvale) or Ian should be able to assist. There are a group of local, Aussie and overseas owners of early Ténérés on the forum at www.tenere.co.uk (just be prepared for very ‘open’ language, politics and racial viewpoints) which, despite the domain name is primarily local. The founding member and administrator (Mezo) has four XT-ZLs also. They are a good bunch of Tenere enthusiasts and very happy to help.

4. Performance re: 550 – The ZL has incredibly high gearing, the rear sprocket is the smallest you can run without the chain hitting the sprocket carrier. It is one of the reasons they destroy fifth gear over time. The 550 had, I think, a 42 tooth rear which will make it more spritely. The standard ZL gearing is better for long highway stints, but as I now know, stinks when riding a rock farm section!

5. Pete can contact me on mail@mikehaysom.com about anything to do with his '83. It will be good to have more Vicco '83s on the ride. I only check emails every couple of days so he needs to be patient.

6. One final hint, join SR500 Club Australia, http://www.sr500club.org/ (joining fee $20, annual membership $25) and arrange an inspection to be eligible for Classic/Historic (red plate) rego. With VicRoads, you get 90 unrestricted days of riding a year (using a log book) for about $100 – and TP Property insurance is usually based on the reduced exposure. It sure beats the normal $525 rego charge! They are great guys, too, and love seeing old Yamaha singles being resurrected from the scrapheap and on the road again.

Hope all this info helps and thanks for everything Clubby and keep up the great work on TRAIL ZONE.

With you in the Ténéré Spirit, and best regards,

-- Mike Haysom, Ténéré Tragic #29

Hey Mike, thanks for that absolute fountain of information -- just awesome! When it comes to '83 Ténéré facts, figures and resto advice, you are clearly the man! Look forward to catching up again at next year's Ténéré Tragics ride.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-07-16T02:27:00.001-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

QUICK QUESTIONS ABOUT AN '83 XT600ZL

Hi Clubby: I noticed I'm still on the tail end of the Tragics Blogspot (April 12th) looking for Tragic assistance to find an original 1983 XT600ZL 34L. It was soon after that article I spotted a fresh one on the Web and settled the deal quick. It's a nice original straight one that's had an easy life. Even the tank is straight. So they are still out there, although I haven't seen one advertised since. I have to say I reckon the old 550 might beat it off the mark, but with that bike on Flinders Island I can't compare. So you might have a new 34L contender for the next Ténéré Tragics event! Now, a couple of questions to throw at the other 34L owners: I've read the oil pump is a bit light-on and a 3AJ one is the go for longer engine life and a cooler running temp. Can anyone confirm? If so, are they an easy fit? Secondly, sometime in my bike's past life a nong has sprayed the frame in grotty gunbarrel grey. Can anyone confirm a code for the red frame color for a re-spray or powdercoat? Finally, if there are any Tragics near the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria I could be interested in hooking up with them for the annual event next year. Attached here is a photo of the beast.

-- Peter Crawford, Potential Ténéré Tragic

Thanks for your email, Pete, and welcome to the marvellous world of original '83 Ténérés -- you have joined an exclusive club indeed! Okay, we'll throw your questions up on the Ténéré Tragics Blogspot and stand-by for a response. I'd say it should not be long before some fellow Tragics chime in with the information you're looking for!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-07-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

HELP FOR A FELLOW TRAGIC!

Hi Clubbly & Tania: It's Glenn, here Tragic #14. I need some advice on where I can purchase a new raditator for my XTZ660 '96 model? I have currently welded the old one but it is only a band-aid for now. I can buy a new one for 800 big ones but cant justify the cost -- even though I work for Yamahas Pitmans here in SA. Myself and a friend are riding up though Birdsville, Innaminka and then down through Arkaroola and the Flinders Ranges to home in August. I was hoping Micheal Tucker could make it on his clean '88 Ténéré, but he has work commitments. The questions I am asking is do you know where I can get a new raditator from, plus I am stuck for what to take on a week-long journey? We have the Spot tracker, and would love to take a fuel bladder but a 10 litre jerry will have to do. Is there a check-list which you personally use, that you go though for a trip? Knowing that you have so much more experience in these adventures. It will be sick, I cant wait !!!!! Thanks, Clubby, and we're just letting you know Caron says hello and is looking forward to being the Adelaide sweeper on the next Tragics run!

-- Glenn, Ténéré Tragic #1

Thanks for your message, Glenn -- great to hear from you and Caron and we know you will be there with bells on for next year's Ténéré Tragics ride. Now, first up, if you have already been through Yamaha's national spare parts network, then we can't directly shed much more light on the subject for you. However, the best thing we can do is throw your request for a radiator up on the Ténéré Tragics Blogspot web page and we bet it won't be long before a fellow Tragic comes to your rescue with a lead on a replacement radiator -- so stay tuned! Okay, as for your second question re what to take for a week-long ride, let's get into it: My first priority is to have the bike prepared as best as possible before the ride and attempt to rule out any potential mechanical hiccups -- but that is easier said than done with some of the old bangers we love to ride! So get your bike sorted first up. Next, I take aim on the tools and spares needed to keep your bike mobile when you do strike typical problems, such as punctures, dirty air filters, busted chains, busted levers, bent bars, dud wiring connections and the like. A good tip is to get all your tools sorted that you will take on the ride, and then get in the garage and do some work on your bike using ONLY these tools -- that way you will fast know if you've got the right tools onboard. Then there's the issue of fuel range. I've become a big fan of AdventureMoto.com.au's fuel bladders, as they are so convenient and small to stash away when not in use. But if you're running a jerry, so be it. Just make sure you have enough fuel range for your longest stretch -- and don't underestimate increased fuel consumption caused by being fully-loaded and head-winds! When all that is dialled, then come the maps so I know where I am going (yes, I am a hard copy map guy!), plus I like to research contact numbers for the main stores, van parks, pubs and police stations in each outback town along the route so you can get a handle on road conditions as the weather changes during your ride -- which has been especially important on outback rides in recent months. Next comes a first aid kit, because accidents do happen and the better prepped you are on this front, the less drama a potential injury can be. Food and drink is the next consideration -- if you're camping, then you need to carry cooking gear and be self-sufficient and stock up with provisions along the way. You'll also need a tent or swag. After all that, then you can think about your clothes and toiletries, but when it comes to this stuff, try to pack light! The bare minimum of gear will save weight on the bike and make your ride just that little bit more enjoyable. Finally, think about renting a Sat phone for the trip, if you want to be able to stay in touch with family and friends wherever you are -- although on your route, you'll be passing traffic every day, so help -- if required -- should not be too long away. Your Spot Tracker is a great way for your family and friends to trace your ride back at home. Sure, all this sounds like a heap of preparation, and it is, but the better prepared you are, the more enjoyable your ride will be. And when you get it done once for your first 'big ride' you'll do it easy on the next trip. Good luck, son!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-06-21T04:18:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

HOW GOOD IS AUSTRALIA?

Incredibly brilliant, I say. Inspired by the original Tragics ride earlier this year (that I couldn't make), I took myself on my own Tragics Triumphant Tour up the Flinders and Gammon Ranges just yesterday.

Over the last month I was busy 'gearing-up' my Tenere 660 for some off-road action. Barkbusters, Wolfman racks, Rotopax fuel cell, Pivot Pegz, bashplate, Rolie bag, Mitas E07 tyres, GPS and some handlebar risers for some extra comfort stand-up riding (because I'm six-foot).
My dad (75 years young) and I rode up to Leigh Creek and went on a scenic flight over Cooper Creek and Lake Eyre out from Lyndhurst. A few days later we split ways as his road tyres on his new Triumph Bonneville weren't gonna match it on the dirt. I packed all the necessary emergency and camping gear including Jetboil -- how good is that thing! ($69.95au posted from USA, backcountry.com, bargain, just don't let adventuremoto know).

Past Wilpena I turned off the bitumen onto dirt (gravel really) and headed for Wirrealpa then onto Arkaroola. The scenery was amazing and road users nowhere to be seen. The ride was fantastic and I couldn't believe how well my bike handled the rough stuff. An overnight stay at Arkaroola then headed off to Copley through Italowie gorge. More dirt action and besides my bike occasionally asking me "does my butt look big in this?", it absolutely swallowed up the dusty gravel kilometres. A quick latte and custard tart at Copley then down to Parachilna via Beltana. Fang a left through Parachilna Gorge for some wet creek crossings amongst the picturesque creek beds. A quick chat to some locals at Blinman then here to Hawker again.

What an amazing two day off-road adventure, and I'm so happy with my Tenere. Admittedly, I should have had someone with me, but all who know me aren't surprised I went solo. My grandma, who did her first tandem skydive at 80 then 90 years also, always said that I was lucky enough to be blessed with a great spirit of adventure.
Anyway, enough from me, time to finish my drink and head back to my accommodation ready for the windy trip home to Adelaide tomorrow. All the best!
-- Maryann Eime.

Thanks for the ride report, Maryann, and we're rapt to know you're out there and putting your very well set-up Ténéré to such good use. Make sure you get in fast when entries open for the 2012 Ténéré Tragics ride as we'd be rapt to have you there. Ride on!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-05-13T19:35:00.000-07:00

TECHNICAL QUESTION:

TRAGIC MORGAN IS LOOKING FOR A CLUTCH KIT

Hey Clubby: I trust that you and Tania are keeping well. Mate, the old banger (the ol’ Ténéré 660, that is) has spat the dummy and decided she needs a new clutch. Do you know of any good aftermarket clutch kits and if so, where? I know I could go for an original Yamaha kit but I don’t like the associated costs. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

-- Morgan, Ténéré Tragic #52

Good to hear from you, Morgs, and always great to read about an ol’ banger getting some tender loving care! Gotta be honest and say I have not had any experience with aftermarket clutch kits, as I’ve instead stuck with genuine parts with my '83 XT600ZL, however let’s throw this question out amongst the Tragics and see what they come back with? Can anyone help Morgan with advice? If so, send us your thoughts to teneretragics@trailzone.com.au and we'll pass it on.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-05-11T23:49:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ REPORT CARD:

HARTLEY'S WRAP ON THE XT1200Z SUPER TÉNÉRÉ

While surfing about on the web today, I happened upon the much updated www.dalbymoto.com.au web site.

Now, if you don't know who Dalby Moto are, be advised they are a leading Yamaha/KTM dealer in south-east Queensland, which is fronted by confirmed Ténéré Tragic (#15) and legend Aussie adventure bike rider, Craig Hartley.

It's taken Craig and his partners plenty of blood, sweat and tears to build the Dalby Moto empire into the major moto emporium it is today, and his reward is getting plenty of time to scratch the adventure bike riding itch, which means more often that not he's out in the boonies racking up the miles on the latest Dalby Moto project bike, rather than kicking back in the showroom with his feet up on the desk.

Anyway, I happened to notice Craig's thrown up on his web site a few report cards for various bikes he's been riding, one of which is the XT1200Z Super Ténéré he rode to the Ténéré Tragics run to the Flinders in March.

Craig's report on the XT-Z makes real interesting reading, especially his comments on the bike's ABS brakes -- and I have to agree with his impressions on this topic: for serious dirt riding, you need to be able to turn the ABS off.

There are also plenty of handy tips included in the editorial, as well as details on service costs, so all you blokes running new Super Téns, study the words of a bloke who sure does know his stuff right here:

http://www.dalbymoto.com.au/images/stories/The_Yamaha_XT_1200_Super_Tenere.pdf

If the direct link doesn't work, just copy it into your web browser and hit 'Return'.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-05-11T22:40:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

'83 TÉNÉRÉ POWER TAKES ON THE SIX HOUR!

G’Day Clubby and fellow Tragics: I rode my ’83 Tenere in the Philip Haydon Six Hour Trial at Tarlee, last weekend (Saturday, May 7), which was the first round of the SA Reliability Trial Championship. For those unfamiliar with reliability trials, they are a type of off-road endurance event ranging from six to 24 hours in duration. Public road transport sections are used to get competitors around the course to a variety of competition (paddock) sections on private-property. These competition sections are generally run cross-country and are timed to the second. No outside assistance is allowed during the event and you must carry all tools and spare that you might want.

The course was about 104km in length, with seven competitive sections ranging from two to 12km in length and two laps were to be ridden. The paddocks were typical of the Tarlee area: lightly wooded rocky hills, large gullies and creeks and like all Gawler MCC events, a couple of good sized mud holes. Because I was late getting my entry in, I ended up with number 118, which saw me start at 2:57pm, meaning that I would only just get the first lap in before dark.

I always find the start of the competition sections interesting. A lot of the riders blast away from the start with a full blown MX race start to try and shave every possible second off of their time. Myself, well I thank the control keeper for coming out and officiating, and then just ride off as if I was heading down the track looking for a latte and baguette. A few seconds lost at the start don’t make much difference to my times through the paddock sections.

Overall I had a great ride, the paddocks were challenging, but in no way difficult, so they were probably real easy for those on modern enduro bikes. The biggest problem for me was the Ténéré handled like a pig due to tight/dry steering head bearings (I had been meaning to regrease them for the past few months but just hadn’t got around to it, along with a lot of other maintenance and preparation work). This made it a real wrestling match in and out of the trees, especially early on when I had a near full tank of fuel.

On the second lap, the old girl started running poorly after riding through a mud hole in the fourth paddock section. I thought I had gotten a bit of water into the air box and pressed on thinking that it would clear up, but things never improved. I was barely able to get the engine to run much above 2,000rpm, and had absolutely no power. I didn’t bother stopping to look into the problem with it being dark and the bike being covered in mud, so I just pressed on and rode the rest of the lap, about 50km, slowly towards the finish.

I got stuck in a river crossing/mud hole in the second last paddock for about 10 to 15 minutes because the bike didn’t have enough power to pull itself up the bank, and it was too slippery for me to push. I ended up getting a bit of assistance from some spectators, which is totally against the rules, but again I didn’t think it would affect the results too much. Further into the paddock an even bigger mud hole had developed on another river crossing, and I chose to walk the bike across a bit downstream from the worst of it as there was no one around to help if I got stuck again.

After a long and slow last transport section I made it to the finish at about 9:45pm and I was presented with my finisher’s medallion after I passed through the final machine examination. All bikes are checked to ensure that they still comply with the road traffic rules and points are lost for things like broken mirrors, or lights that don’t work.

The provisional results have me placed 87 overall and second in Class M (Bikes pre-1990). So I beat four sidecar crews -- yes, people are mad enough to ride sidecars in these events, and the 10 people who DNFed.

On Sunday , when I stripped the bike to clean it I found a section at the rear of the air box had been broken off, possibly by a rock thrown up off the rear wheel, and this had allowed the airbox to basically fill up with mud, which explained the poor running. I also got around to fixing the steering head bearings, so hopefully it will handle a bit better for the next round!

-- Colin Jay, Ténéré Tragic #6

That's a great yarn, Colin, and congrats on taking the fight right up to the modern-day enduro bikes in the opening round of the SA reliability trials series! But, hey, I don't believe for a moment you would have been slack on your pre-ride maintenance?! What's happened?! You getting slack since the Tragics run?! I only have memories of your '83 running like a Swiss watch and a well oiled machine ... save for the oil pissing out on the ground and the sideplate melting against the muffler as you rolled into Hawker! Maybe you've been chasing too many lattes and baguettes and not spending enough time in the workshop?! We all look forward to your report from round two ... bring it on! And you will be lining up in the SA 24 Hour in July ... won't you?!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-05-09T01:26:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC TROY HITS THE VICCO HIGH COUNTRY

Hi Clubby, Tania & the TZ Crew: This is just a quick email to say hello and thanks for yet another great issue of TRAIL ZONE. All is going great here at home in Victoria: we had a ride on the big bikes on the weekend from Heyfield to Licola via Mt Useful for fuel and morning smoko. Then it was up the Howit High Plains road past Howit Hut and on to the Zeka Spur Track and into the Wonangatta Vally for lunch at the old homestead. After lunch it was into the hill climbs out of the valley and on to Dargo for a bite to eat and a quick 100km-plus trip home in the dark. It was a great ride for all with bikes ranging from a DR-Z400 to Honda 650 Transalp, Kawasaki KLR650, the Baby Tenere (mine!), a KTM 990 and last, but not least, a mighty Super Ténéré. There were no major issues, as it was dry, even a bit dusty, with a few rivers to cross and a great test of the big bikes. A total of 430km was covered for the day and the scenery was in good condition after the fires a few years ago! Please find attached a few pics from the ride. Keep up the great work on the magazine, and remember, I'm counting down the days to the next Ténéré Tragics event -- Tragic #31 will be there rain, hail or shine!

-- Troy Mattson, Ténéré Tragic #31

Thanks for the news and the ride report, Troy. We were down in the Vicco high country a couple of weekends ago ourselves, and did a two-day trail ride with Australian Trail Bike Tours out of Eildon. The high country is an awesome part of the world, and no matter whether you are riding a trail/enduro bike or an adventure bike, you'll find trails perfectly suited to you, your bike and the riding you want to do. Look forward to seeing you again at next year's Ténéré Tragics ride!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-04-12T16:12:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

JUST DISCOVERED THE TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS

Hi Clubby: I picked up the latest copy of Motorcycle Trader magazine to hunt for an early XT600z Ténéré and there on page 11 is a story on the 'Tragics'. I never knew the club existed, let alone that the old Ténéré has a growing fan club. I've been riding an old '83 model XT550 (with a 600 disc front end) for years now. The bike sits in a container down at Flinders Island (middle of Bass Strait) and gets hauled out whenever I can get down there. The island is brilliant for big thumper enduro riding -- with the exception of too many hopping kamikaze marsupials. I'm really keen on picking up an '83, '84 or '85 Ténéré (pre-electric start) and was wondering if you could give me any leads or contacts? The older bikes are fewer and farther between, with many that have done huge kays. I'm keen for a project bike and reckon they are a brilliant old beastie. The 550 is a great old bike but lacked the front disc, so it's not a great original restoration project unless I go back to a crappy drum front end. The 600 was what it should have been. I guess there's no guernsey with the Tragics with a 550, either? Any leads would be greatly appreciated.

-- Peter Crawford, via www.trailzone.com.au

I've quickly discovered the same thing, Peter, that there are a whole stack of Ténéré Tragics out there just like me. Like I wrote in the story that just came out in the new issue of TRAIL ZONE, when we launched the Tragics ride, I wondered if we'd even be able to get 50 starters ... hah! That was the least of my worries! Now, you're right about the 550 not being a starter for future Tragics rides: the first rule is, No Ténéré, No Start. So that means tracking down a Ténéré, and when it comes to finding early models, you have to act fast and bid like a man when you spot one on eBay or www.bikesales.com.au. You know, a lot of blokes blame me for the prices of early Ténérés going through the roof of late. Ever since I got my '83 XT600ZL and started running stories on the old banger a couple of years ago, interest in the bikes has climbed, and so too have the prices they are bringing. So to everyone out there reading this and dreaming of an original '83, sorry! Anyway, your request is now on the Ténéré Tragics blog site for all to see, so if any of the Tragics email me with any details or leads, I will be sure to pass them on. Good luck with the hunt -- hope we get to see you at next year's Tragics run.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-29T00:44:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC MIKE IS ALREADY TRAINING FOR NEXT YEAR!

Hi Clubby & Fellow Tragics: Following on from the recent Run to the Rocks and having had some nervous moments on the trip, I felt the need to expose my Ténéré to more enduro-type tracks and for me to "harden up a bit"! It may even be worth a few articles on dual-sport riding techniques in upcoming TRAIL ZONE editions to help prep the Tragics for next year?

The included photos are from a recent excursion in the wet (as usual) around Pomona on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. There were interludes of open, although rutted track, followed by quagmires where 4WDs have done their best to make them impassible. The Tenere did not appreciate the bog hole I put her in (shown in attached photo being held up by a fellow rider) and getting her out proved to be a bit of a mission in the slippery mud, but overall it was a character building experience -- that is, one that does not kill you and you learn from.

I had my suspension wound out a bit and the Ténéré comfortably handled the G-outs experienced when at pace across the erosion mounds. Speaking of which, my new replacement number plate has now been repositioned as per the specs on your Blog and although doing my best to dislodge it, it is still in place!

On another matter, you no doubt have numerous photos of the Ténéré Tragics ride that will not see the light of day in publications or on the web site. Is it possible to get a copy of these or will they be available for purchase in the future as a special-edition CD?

Thanks again!

-- Mike Ruoso, Ténéré Tragic #19

Now, Mike, I am seriously impressed! Keep up this trail and enduro-type training on your mighty 660 and you will dance through next year’s Ténéré Tragics ride on the back wheel, with a spray of roost behind you all the way! Great stuff. I can’t remember, but had you installed stiffer fork springs in your 660? If not, do it! It’s only a couple of hundreds bucks for firmer fork springs and oil and the difference this easy mod makes to the way the 660 handles the dirt is astounding. The same goes for the rear end, although installing an Ohlins shock like we did with our XT660Z Ténéré Project Bike last year is rather more expensive than a set of fork springs ... I like your idea re riding tips in the mag, although if you want a free tip on getting some adventure bike riding tips right now, get onto the www.adventuremoto.com.au web site and order a copy of the Advanced Dual-Sport Riding Techniques DVD ($39.95) and then settle back in front of the big screen and take it all in. It's loaded with a zillion great tips you can put to good use on your next rides. As for your request about the photos from the Ténéré Tragics ride, stay tuned and we’ll put out a bulletin to the Tragics and see how many of you are interested. Ride on!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-29T00:28:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TASSIE PETE TAKES THE LONG WAY HOME

Hi Clubby &Tania: After the Ténéré Tragics weekend I decided to stay on at Arkaroola and explore a couple more of the tracks around the place -- and really enjoyed it. On the third day it started persistently pissing down, which meant all roads were closed, so I was stuck there for a couple more days. Mind you, it's not a bad place to get stuck -- as you guys had already found out! The staff at Arkaroola were very friendly and with a bar on-hand, it was pretty easy to take, plus the staff kept mentioning again how much they enjoyed having us Tragics around!

Anyway, I left it a day to let the water run out a bit, so it was a different ride back out to Copely with all the dry river beds now running water! But they were pretty shallow, so no dramas.

I left the Flinders thinking I'd definitely get back there some time, as it's great bike country.

I finally found my way back home to Tassie. It's been hard to wipe the smile from my face the whole time. So thanks again for organising this event and also to all the guys I rode with, it's been great.

These photos are all taken around Arkaroola. Like I said, it's well worth spending a bit of time there.

Hopefully I will get to see you on the next Tragics run!

-- Tassie Pete, Ténéré Tragic #11

Thanks for the post-event update, Pete. I heard that Broken Hill copped more rain after most of us made our way through the day or two after the Tragics event, so all that weather obviously came across from the Flinders. We really did luck out that we had good weather the weekend of the event, because like I said a few times in the build-up to the ride, when the Flinders gets wet, so many of the clay-based tracks turn to gloopy quagmires, which aren't much fun to ride at all! Least of all a heavyweight new Ténéré or Super Ténéré that keeps wanting to chock the front wheel under the low guard and spit you on your ear! Anyway, mate, keep smiling, and we hope to see you at next year’s Tragics event. Ride on!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL

'83 DAVE TAKES THE LONG WAY HOME

Hi Clubby, Tania and all fellow Tragics: I arrived home in Brisbane last Friday night at 11pm after a few days visiting friends in Melbourne then coming home via Tumbarumba-Tumut-Goulburn-Sydney. What a great Tragics tour!

First of all a big thanks to you and Tania for making it all happen. What an effort on your part. A big thanks also to Steve Smith and Big Pete for their prize giveaways at the Saturday bivouac, and Pete’s back-up with car and trailer was also re-assuring.

On a long hot afternoon between Mildura and Melbourne I road-tested Steve’s cool vest and it gets a big thumbs-up. Thanks Steve.

My ’83 XT did not miss a beat on my entire 6,000km round-trip, despite being given its head at every opportunity.

One highlight for me must surely be the arrival and associated aural sensations (read smells) of Colin from Claire when he joined us at Hawker. With sidecover rapidly melting on the exhaust, the look on Clubby’s face was priceless, but nothing that a roll of al-foil wouldn’t fix!

What a wonderful bunch of blokes, too, everyone happy to have a chat. It’s great to see different gear set-ups and there’s always something new to learn.

Having ridden and toured on the same ’83 Ténéré since 1986, it’s been a pleasure to be part of the inaugural Tragics Run to the Rocks which was a terrific and long overdue celebration of an icon. Keep spreading the Tenere love!

-- Dave Bottomley, Ténéré Tragic #8

Thanks for a great email, Dave. Rest assured there’s plenty of Ténéré love to go around and we'll keep spreading it for years to come. All four of you blokes who hit the ride aboard your original '83s have won my respect and admiration for showing the true Ténéré Tragics spirit. We just can't wait to see you blokes and your bikes again at next year's Tragics festival. And it will be interesting to see just how many more '83s we flush out of the woodwork ... bring it on!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-15T13:32:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

THE MELBOURNE TRAGICS ARE HOME

Hi Tania: A big thank-you to Clubby and yourself for organising such a great event. My mate Dave (Tragic #41) and I did make it to Cameron’s Corner on the Thursday morning (first there!) but the closed roads and the news of the rest of the gang going around via Leigh Creek turned us around for our marathon drive/ride back to Leigh Creek to meet up with Clubby.

The few photos attached show some of our adventure without the 'lost night' in Broken Hill! There's also a pic of me and Clubby helping the 'tyre-shredder' after his his second blow-out! Would be very keen to hear the stats on who got flats and what tyres they were running?

Anyway we did 4,750kms in the week (including towing the bikes part-way from Melbourne!) Looking forward to Tragics II next year.

-- Ian, Ténéré Tragic #42

There's a million tall stories to come out of the first-ever Ténéré Tragics run, Ian, and you blokes sure have your fair share of them to tell. I still crack up when you blokes rolled into the servo at Leigh Creek and I yelled out, "Where have you come from?" and you yelled back, "Cameron Corner!" If you didn't have the photos to prove it, I would have never believed it. Great stuff! And then when you found Lucky Graeme's wallet on the road into Arkaroola, and then when you found Dave's rego plate on the Saturday, well, it's clear you blokes wear a lustre that can only be from the famed Ténéré Spirit. We look forward to catching you at the next Ténéré Tragics run.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS NEWS:

TÉNÉRÉS ON SHOW AT READFORD'S MOTORCYCLES DUBBO

After being part of the inaugural Ténéré Tragics Run to the Rocks, Dubbo, NSW, Yamaha dealer Dave Readford and his mate Colin Hayden have now put their bikes at display at Dave's Readford’s Motorcycle Centre Yamaha dealership in Dubbo. Dave rode a new XT1200Z Supere Ténéré on the Tragics run, while Col rode a new XT660Z Ténéré -- and Col scooped up the Best Presented/Prepared XT660Z award at the event. Dave says the bikes will be on show for a couple of weeks, so any Ténéré fans passing through town who want to check out a couple of well used and well prepped XT-Zs, drop in at Readford's and have a good ol' gander at 'em. Pictured here is Dave on the left, with NT Tragic John Wheeler, who was passing through town on his way home to the Top End. Nice job, boys!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

BIG JOHN KEEPS ON TRUCKING!

Hi Clubby & Tania: Just wanted to let you know that Ténéré Tragic #36 John Wheeler dropped in at the shop late this afternoon -- I was seeing a rep after hours and I think the only thing that helped us see one another again was the Ténéré spirit? John stopped to take a photo of his bike in front of the shop on his way from Victoria to Gilgandra -- yes he rides big days! And on a '99 model! But he reckons he'd rather be on his TDM900 ... Anyway, here's a photo of John outside our shop. Best of luck to everyone, and if you are ever in Dubbo, make sure you drop in at Readford Motorcycles and say g'day!

-- Dave Readford, Ténéré Tragic #21

Thanks for the update, Dave. After presenting John with his Longest Distance Travelled award at the Tragics event (he rode 3,600km from the Northern Territory to get there!), it's no surprise he got straight back on his bike and just kept on riding. And after hearing he's now passed through Dubbo, it sounds like he's got plenty more riding still to do. On ya, John! We'll see you all at next year's Ténéré Tragics ride.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC DEAN IS HOME SAFE & SOUND

I don't know where to begin except to say the whole Ténéré Tragics experience was LIFE CHANGING. One week on and my mind is still there. It would have to be one of the greatest things I have ever done. I've been riding road bikes for 25 years. So as you know, this type of riding is relatively new to me. The whole experience from start to finish has been amazing. I have learnt so much with the greatest bunch of people anyone could ask for.

My hat goes of to all the people invoved with organising this event. I will move heaven and earth to be on every Tragics run in the future.

Between now and the next run I have much to learn, so I hope Yamaha runs a good adventure riding course.

Thank-you all so much and stay safe.

-- Dean, Ténéré Tragic #49

Great words, Deano, thanks for reporting in. For a first-timer in the dirt, you did unreal, so be proud of your achievement. Start racking up plenty more miles in the bush between now and next year's Tragics ride and you'll be roosting it up with the best of them. We look forward to seeing you there!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-13T15:45:00.000-07:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC DAVE BLOGS ON!

Gidday Clubby & Tania: Here is my blog but I’m not sure if I have posted it in the correct place.

http://teneretragicsruntotherocks2011.blogspot.com/

Can you have a look and see if you can get it on the TT blogspot? Cheers!

Dave, Ténéré Tragic #35

Too easy, Dave: we've put the link here so the Tragics can hit it (or copy it into their browser) and take a look at your words and photos. Thanks again for coming along on the ride, and congrats once more for taking out the Best Presented/Prepared XT1200Z Super Ténéré award. Look forward to seeing you at next year’s Tragics event.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-13T00:34:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC CURTIS REPORTS IN

Hi Clubby & Tania: Thanks for a great trip that was organised so well by you both. It was good to meet a group of great blokes. After leaving Arkaroola we went to the bike museum at Peterbourgh then moved on to Renmark and followed the Murray River back to Corryong and Khancoban. We then travelled over the mountains through to Thredbo, Jindabyne and Cooma, then on to Braidwood, arriving home Wednesday. Thanks again for a great trip; hope to see everyone next time.

-- Curtis, Ténéré Tragic #9

Sounds like a great ride home from the Flinders, Curtis. Thanks for coming along and we look forward to seeing you next year.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-12T00:14:00.001-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS NEW PRODUCTS:

ATTENTION ALL XT1200Z RIDERS: ALTRIDER PARTS ON THE WAY!

Ténéré Tragic, ride sponsor and all-round awesome motorcycle industry mover and shaker, Steve 'Wolfman' Smith has just announced Australian pricing details for the fast-approaching range of Altrider accessories from the USA for the new Yamaha XT1200Z Super Ténéré.

The Wolfman has played an integral part in the development of these new Altrider goodies, as it was his own XT1200Z that was air-freighted across to Altrider HQ late last year for the crew there to use as their R&D test mule.

When they were done, the bike was then shipped back to OZ in time for Wolfy to join us on the Ténéré Tragics ride last week -- along with a sprinkling of pre-production Altrider parts that were used on both Steve's (pictured) and my XT1200Zs on the ride.

Steve advises that Altrider's production parts for the XT1200Z Super Ténéré will go on-sale in Aussie next month (April), although full product details and images can be viewed now on the www.altrider.com web site.

The Altrider range of parts and their local Australian pricing (inc GST) via Steve's www.adventuremoto.com.au emporium are as follows:

Engine protection bars - $469.95

Engine sump guard - $449.95

Rear luggage rack - $249.95

Exhaust header guard - $69.95

Sidestand foot - $69.95 (available now)

Rear brake cylinder cover - $89.95

Uni joint cover - $89.95

I ran the Altrider rear luggage rack (it’s a ripper, real strong, and with a handy 'cubby-hole' storage spot below the main rack), exhaust header guard, sidestand foot, rear brake master cylinder cover and universal joint cover on my 1200, while Steve ran the full complement on his bike. When we were hammering the rock farm, I sure was wishing I had an Altrider sump guard on my bike: as it's a strong and fully protective piece of hardware that has a whole lot more 'meat' to it than the Yamaha sump guard Yamaha had fitted to my bike.

For more details, check out the Altrider web site and then give Steve a yell at AdventureMoto.com.au on 1300 GO MOTO and give your Super Ténéré the protection it deserves.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-11T23:54:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC RICHARD REPORTS IN

Hi Clubby & Tania: Thanks for a wonderful time at Arkaroola. It was my first big solo ride and it was a blast. The trip had everything.

Some of the highlights for me were:

+ Almost being hit by an old lady pulling out of her driveway in Hawker. She followed me into the servo where I was re-fuelling and apologised for not seeing me. How sweet.

+ I lost my number plate at Copley (not the rock farm), so I informed the Leigh Creek police (so I did not get booked on my way home) and an older local at the police station offered to create a homemade number plate at his place. He did not want me to get into strife with the police.

+ Meeting a smart bunch of riders who chose the Ténéré as their bike of choice. All I can say is, what a great bunch of guys! So many wonderful characters and I learnt a great deal.

+ Tassie Pete and myself buddied up on Saturday. We rode hard and fast and thankfully had no bike damage or drops for option 2 -- no latte stops for us! Apart from almost getting lost, the rock farm section was a challenge but we had a ball. Saturday was one of the best rides I have done. Thanks Tassie Pete!

+ Destroying a brand new rear D606 tyre in 200km of use from Broken Hill to Yunta – meaning an emergency tyre change at Port Augusta.

+ My chain coming off on the Arkaroola/Yunta road doing a smidge over the speed limit. Is there a speed limit on that road? In hindsight, it was quite scary.

+ Watching a rear tyre bead popping go wrong at Yunta petrol station (see photos).

For those that had injuries getting there or over the weekend, I hope you have a speedy recovery and I am looking forward to catching up with Ténéré Tragics #1 to #50 next year and any new ones.

Again, a big thank-you to TRAIL ZONE, Adventure Moto, Offroad Explorer and Yamaha Australia.

-- Richard, Ténéré Tragic #5

Thanks for your report, Richard. Yep, I reckon we all have plenty of memorable moments from what proved to be a mighty ride ... but by crikey! What happened with that rear tyre at Yunta on the way home? Looks like a little too much pressure trying to pop the bead had some unexpected consequences?! Thanks again for being part of the inaugural Ténéré Tragics run, we look forward to seeing you next year.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-11T13:29:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS NEWS:

YAMAHA NEWS BULLETIN

As the Tragics on the Getting There Ride will know, Yamaha Motor Australia's Communications Manager, Sean Goldhawk, joined us for the first three days of the Ténéré Tragics Run to the Rocks ride from Goulburn to Hillston to Broken Hill to Hawker, before having to turn around the next morning and return to Broken Hill and fly home to Sydney. Earlier this week Sean (pictured) distributed an official Yamaha news bulletin about the Tragics event, which is reproduced below:

Ténéré Tragics Run to the Rocks

50 Yamaha Ténéré owners have showed their enthusiasm for the legendary model by tackling a dirt bike adventure to the Flinders Ranges in South Australia. The Ténéré Tragics Run to the Rocks was the first event of its kind for owners of all kinds of Ténéré from the original 1983 XT600ZL to the latest XTZ1200 Super Ténéré. The event was the brainchild of trail boss and Ténéré Tragic #1 Andrew Clubb (Clubby), editor of Trail Zone magazine and owner of an original 1983 model.

"What a blast of an event. It certainly was an action-packed ride and it appears all the Tragics have gone home well satisfied with the event," says Clubby who is now busy planning next year’s ride.

There were 27 Tragics on the official getting there ride which started from Hillston in NSW and took in Ivanhoe and Menindee on a variety of sealed and unsealed roads before rolling into Broken Hill. From there the plan was to head to Cameron Corner before turning south-west down the famed Strezlecki Track to Arkaroola for a for a day’s ride in the scenic Flinders Ranges.

Unfortunately bizarre weather patterns put a stop to the northbound fun because the road from Cameron Corner was closed due to rain. So the Tragics headed west to Yunta and then north on the dirt to the SA village of Hawker. The detour took the group across some water-covered sections, numerous sand wash-aways, dry rocky riverbeds and endless miles of Ténéré Tragics en route to Arkaroola Village in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges remote station tracks. But despite the challenging terrain, the Tragics made it through with minimum drama.

Having arrived at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, the Tragics were offered a choice of three loops of varying distances to choose from. Fortunately Steve Wolfman Smith from Adventure Moto was on hand to act as sweep on the ride and his good mate Big Pete provided a support vehicle with trailer.

Some minor incidents meant they were called into action on several occasions.

However, the Tragics returned to Arkaroola for a bivouac BBQ dinner on Sat 5 March where Clubby presented event merchandise and the much anticipated Ténéré Tragic awards to the well travelled group.

The major category winners were:

Best Presented/Prepared First Generation XT600/660 Ténéré: Michael Tucker (SA)

Best Presented/Prepared First Generation XTZ750 Super Ténéré: Paul Sitar (WA)

Best Presented Current XTZ660 Ténéré: Colin Hayden (NSW)

Best Presented Current XTZ1200 Super Ténéré: Dave Smith (Qld)

Oldest Ténéré: Neil Asplin, ‘83 XT600ZL Ténéré

Oldest Super Ténéré: Paul Sitar ‘91 XTZ750 Super Ténéré

Oldest Rider: Harley Drew, 64, XTZ1200 Super Ténére´

Youngest Rider: Luke Partridge, 16 (on L plates!), XTZ660 Ténéré

Most Kilometres Ridden to Event: John Wheeler, from Darwin River, NT, approx 3600km

Hard Luck Award: Chris Zakelj, cracked ankle

Most Truly Tragic Ténéré Tragic: This was a four-way tie. All four rode their original '83 XT600ZL Ténérés to the event and home again. That's the true Ténéré spirit! They are: Colin Jay (SA) Mike Haysom (Vic) Neil Asplin (Qld) Dave Bottomley (Qld)

"The inaugural Ténéré Tragics event was a huge success," says YMA Communications Manager and event participant Sean Goldhawk. "The numbers were capped at 50 and the organisers ended up turning away 25 owners who did not register in time. The high level of participation was mirrored with an equally strong appreciation of the Ténéré model and the Yamaha brand. These guys are all passionate about their motorcycles.

"Everyone enjoyed the ride, and there was a great spirit of cameradie among the riders -- the Ténéré spirit you could call it," explains Goldhawk.

The Ténéré Tragics ride is now set to be an annual event and with the increased support of YMA, the anticipation is for increased numbers in the future. Many thanks to organisers Tania and Andrew Clubb, Steve 'Wolfman' Smith and Big Pete. And well done to Yamaha dealers Dave Readford (Readford's MC Centre), Dave Wilson (Lithgow Bike Stop) and Craig Hartley (Dalby Moto) for participating in the event and supporting the product they sell.

Visit here to find out more:

http://www.yamaha-motor.com.au/

http://www.facebook.com/YamahaMotorAus

http://www.trailzone.com.au/

http://www.offroadexplorer.com/

2011-03-11T13:02:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC COLIN & HIS MIGHTY '83 XT-Z JUST KEEPS THUMPING ON

G'day Clubby & Tania: I would like to thank both of you, Steve, Big Pete, Lance and Yamaha for putting on an absolutely great event. I would also like to thank all the other Tragics for their part in making the event what it was.

In the lead-up to the ride, I did have some doubts about it being a latte rider's run, but after meeting up with you at Hawker, these doubts rapidly faded. The ride out through the rock farm on Saturday morning was the final proof I needed to convince me that no one was looking for either a latte or baguette.

As a rider with 35 years of off-road riding experience, both trail and competition, my hat goes off to those riders with little dirt experience that took on the challenge of the rock farm and conquered it, and more so for those who rode 1200s through it.

I had a good trip home. After leaving the main group of Tragics at Yunta, I rode down the tar 17km to Paratoo, then took back to the dirt on the old Orraroo Road. I ventured down to Dawson (another virtual ghost town), then picked up some more dirt tracks to get me down to the old Kidman stock route, which got me down to where I work at North Brown Hill wind farm and then home via Boobarowie and Farrell Flat.

I probably rode the shortest distance of any Tragic, some 1,560km, and have been inspired by how well the old 'pig' handled it. I am now considering riding this year’s SA Reliability Trial series on it (Class M – pre 1990), including the 24 Hour (though only the Rally class).

As soon as I got home my Ténéré Tragics name tag went straight to the 'pool room' and now hangs with some of my other prized motorcycling treasures.

I will always be proud to be able to call myself one of the original Ténéré Tragics and would happily send you the entry fee tomorrow for next year's ride, no matter where it is heading.

-- Colin Jay, Ténéré Tragic #6

Now Colin, rest assured we, too, will be proud to call you an original Ténéré Tragic! I will never forget your arrival to join the group in Hawker. There we were, all us Tragics on the Getting There Ride, almost ready to leave the servo at Hawker, when I turned and looked south back down the main street and saw this big white/red/black lump of classic adventure bike history turn the corner and come thump-thump-thumping up to us. I knew right away it was an '83 and a tear welled up in the corner of my eye: another truly tragic Tragic! And then, as you pulled up in a flurry of emu feathers (after hitting a bird on the run up) and a massive cloud of pungent fumes after melting your right sideplate against the muffler, well, I just dropped to the floor and knew I was in the presence of Tragics greatness. And to think just a few days before your bike had been in a zillion pieces and you had sent us a photo of your fully loaded machine ... with just one part missing: the motor! Unreal! Now, after all the fun and games of the event (and, yes, the rock farm!), you and I must have gone so close to crossing paths on Sunday arvo. I left Arkaroola early Sunday morning to follow Tania out to Leigh Creek to make sure she got the dirt kays done okay before she started humming down to Adelaide to fly home to Sydney. I decided to get in a couple of bonus dirt sections on my way home and snuck through Beltana and Glass Gorge again on the way to Blinman, then zapped down to Hawker and decided to explore some dirt back roads south of Hawker on the way across to Yunta and then Broken Hill overnight. I ended up putting in a 760km day, and my wanderings took me right through Dawson, too! There's some good back-road riding to be had down there, which I've filed for future use. Thanks for coming along and we all look forward to seeing you at next year's ride.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-11T12:51:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC PETER REPORTS IN

Hi all: I arrived home Wednesday evening after spending an extra day at Arkaroola and sight-seeing up the Murray River (looks great full of water) on the way home. Chatting with Doug in the workshop at Arkaroola on Sunday he again mentioned what a great group we were to have at the resort. So I think Clubby, Tania and all the rest of you Tragics are to be congratulated on the impression we left there.

Thanks again to all those who made the ride possible and helped me and the other Tragics who had mishaps or were new to adventure touring. It is good to see that our 'Fireies' are on the ball. Who took the pic and did not notice the remains of the after-burner? (sorry Morgan).

Thanks again to all of you Tragics for making it a memorable few days. I hope to do it all again next year.

And I need to pay a special thanks to whoever left the new fuel container on the back of my bike!

-- Peter Erickson, Ténéré Tragic # 51

Now, Pete, I can't help but feel you have glossed over a few salient facts in your report ... like the couple of hundred 'bonus' kilometres you got to do out of Hawker on Friday morning on a mission south to get a new rear tyre fitted to your bike? And then what about your little 'incident' late on Friday arvo on the gravel road across to Arkaroola when you smacked a rock at high speed, copped a front flat and then speared off the side of the road, through a drainage ditch and across the mulga for 100 metres ... all without hitting anything or laying it down? Amazing! It was a pleasure to then watch you swap out the front tube, before we finally cruised on to Arkaroola and made it there just before dark. And then, of course, the molten jerry can incident late on Saturday was another absolute pearler! How the bike didn't go up in flames will forever remain a mystery for the ages. Clearly the Ténéré gods were watching over us! Thanks for coming along and we'll catch you next year.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-10T18:05:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TÉNÉRÉ FIRST-TIMER MORGAN REPORTS IN

Hi Tania & Clubby: I just wanted to say a big thank-you to both of you for the huge effort you put into organising the Run to the Rocks. I'm 42 years of age and the old Ténéré that I rode is the first bike I've ever owned and only purchased it in December, just so that I could go on the ride with you guys. The only other 'big' ride that I had done before was a ride to Wyangala Dam on a borrowed bike.

I got so much out of the Tragics ride and enjoyed the company of everyone who attended and can now say that I am indeed an addict.

I am also grateful to have the likes of Steve Smith as a kind of 'mentor' when it comes to riding. I realise that being the age I am I will never have the skills of Clubby (!) or Steve (!), but I will certainly be watching them closely whenever I get the opportunity and sucking their brains for as much information as possible.

I realise that being the last person to register, you both had every opportunity to turn me away, but didn't and for that I can't thank-you enough.

Once again, thank-you for your efforts in organising the ride and I am happy to say that this is the start of a beautiful love affair. All the best and I will see you again soon no doubt.

-- Morgan, Ténéré Tragic # 52.

Unreal story, Morgan, just unreal!We always tear-up at a love story, and you just about had us reaching for the tissues ... at which point I looked down proudly at my Moto Cement T-shirt from AdventureMoto.com.au and decided it was time to HTFU! (That's Morgan in the right of this photo, with Big Pete the AdventureMoto.com.au support vehicle driver.) Thanks for coming along on the ride and we're absolutely rapt to know you pushed the edge and got through it all, especially the final few kilometres back into Arkaroola on Saturday, when your bike started playing up and you had to push it a couple of kays to the next downhill to get it to bump-start. That was another ripper yarn from the ride! We look forward to seeing you on next year's Tragics ride.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-10T11:47:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

DUBBO DEALER DAVE IS HOME SAFE & SOUND

Hi Clubby & Tania: Well done guys, and thanks to all the sponsors and the Tragics themselves who were enthusiastic enough to get their entries in early. I'm used to riding heaps of kays on FJR1300s; now I have headed for the dirt and it still feels great. I'm extremely happy with the new Super T, it only needs a couple of mods to make it Supreme. Unlike some unlucky ones, I only have a couple of scrapes on my bashplate but a stronger one is coming.

Col and I returned via the dirt to Condobolin via Menindee, all up 3000km. Surprise, my Kendas are still road legal!

We have hundreds of photos of a lifetime adventure, so it was hard to choose only a few! To all the riders who participated and made it such a 'fun' ride, thanks for making it such. Time permitting I'll be there on the next one.

We have put a display in the shop of our two bikes 'as travelled' for a couple of weeks with credits to TRAIL ZONE and our sponsors. The local press are doing an article as well!

-- Dave Readford, Ténéré Tragic #21, Dubbo, NSW

Was great having you along on the Tragics ride, Dave. And as a Yamaha dealer, congrats on standing by the product you sell and putting it to good use out there in the real world. And while we're at it, we tip our Ténéré Tragics cap to Dave Wilson from Lithgow Bike Stop and Craig Hartley from Dalby Moto, as Yamaha dealers who also joined in on the Ténéré Tragics run. Both Dave and Craig also score bonus points for offering mechanical help when needed to a few fellow Tragics when we hit the rocks of the Flinders Ranges (and I do mean HIT the rocks!). Great to know you and Colin have your bikes on display in the shop -- if anyone is passing through Dubbo in the next couple of weeks, drop in at Readford Motorcycles and check out the 660 and 120 Ténérés sitting their contentedly waiting for their next big adventure ... bring it on!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-10T00:52:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

NO MORE LEAKS FOR 'LUCKY GRAEME' ON THE WAY HOME

I just got home and want to say thanks again, Tania and Clubby, the Ténéré Tragics event was a credit to both of you and how you did it. I have never had such a great time with such a wonderful bunch of people.

And Clubby, my sump is still not leaking, thanks to Theo's putty and Dave's help -- thanks guys!

I will be keen to see where the next Ténéré Tragics ride is.

-- Graeme Bensley, Ténéré Tragic #10

You know, Graeme, I have to admit that the very moment you rolled up behind me as we regrouped at the tar road at Parachilna after rolling down the hills from Glass Gorge, I knew exactly what had happened when I saw that pool of oil under your sump. And I knew it would only end in one of two ways: someone would either MacGyver it and get you out of trouble, or you'd be stuck with a very expensive transport bill to get your 1200 back to somewhere that it could be worked on! So how good was it that Theo's metal putty and Dave's mechanical skills came through? That was awesome! And to think you've banged on another couple of thousand kays on the bike since the fix was made. A great advert for metal putty, for sure! And what about Lithgow Dave himself then holing the sump on his 1200 the next day, and then Crag Hartley punched a hole in his 1200's sump another day later on the way home. Some of you 1200 riders made quite a habit of it, huh? And hey, don't forget those other two Tragics who found your wallet on the side of the trail on the way into Arkaroola -- you are one lucky Tragic, for sure! Anyway, great to read you, too, enjoyed the Tragics ride. We'll see you at next year's event!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-10T00:33:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC TUCKER REPORTS IN!

Hi Tania & Clubby: Thank-you for a wonderful weekend away in the spectacular Flinders Ranges. As a 'local' travelling up from Adelaide I take my hat off to all the other Tragics who covered huge distances to get there, I definitely felt as if I had had a decent ride arriving home Sunday evening and was thinking about all the lads who were still on the road.

I was chuffed to win the Best Presented First Generation 600/660 Tenere Award, and it really made the last six months spent in the shed every night seem all worth it. With only getting my bike back together two days before we left and only a 20km shakedown ride, I was hoping that the Tenere legend would smile upon me and be reliable -- it did and I had an incident-free weekend, with no get-offs, no mechanicals, no flats, nothing!

One of the best things about the weekend I would have to say was meeting all the other Tragics. I never realised how many of us were out there.

And the rock garden (or Road of Bones as it was affectionately called) ... what a section! Three kilometres x ten of FUN!

I am already planning next years trip !!

-- Michael Tucker aka Tux, Ténéré Tragic #3

Congratulations again on your award, Tux -- it was thoroughly deserved. And thanks a bundle for the photos: your bike looks every bit as good on camera as it did in the flesh. Great work and well done on a most impressive resto. We look forward to seeing you at next year's Ténéré Tragics ride ... and don't worry, it'll be good!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-09T01:47:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC THEO REPORTS IN

Hi Clubby: Just wanted to say a really big THANK-YOU to you and Tania, as well as Steve (Wolfman) Smith and Big Pete from AdventureMoto.com.au and Sean from Yamaha and all the other sponsors of the Tenere Tragics ride 2011. You put together a really fantastic and unforgettable event!

Having never done any riding like this (multi-day, long kilometres), I was a bit apprehensive to begin with, but you made it seem all very possible and not difficult. There were a lot of fellow Tragics who also gave reassurance and a few words of support. It really did feel like a club, or more to the point, a brotherhood of like souls.

It's been a huge learning curve that has left a taste for adventure in my mind and heart that I think will be a part of me now forever.

I got home without much incident as I took the easy way (mostly bitumen) home. My rear tyre was near to smooth and I kinda started thinking of all the bad things that could happen, especially after watching a tyre change at Arkaroola performed by Dave from Lithgow Bike Stop on Steve's 660. Two of them trying to break the bead on a rear tyre with the LONG tyre irons and it was still tough! Whew, imagine me on my own? With my tyre changing expertise? No way!

I have attached a few photos of some of the things that happened on the ride and wanted to share them with fellow Tragics that may not have been there, or for those that were, they're a chance to remember and maybe add to the whole experience.

I can't wait to find out where next year's Tragics ride is going to be? But I know you won't say where that will be yet, so until next time, happy trails!

-- Theo Katotikidis, Ténéré Tragic #28

Great words, Theo, and thanks for your appreciation. You were the first Tragic I teamed up with, at Goulburn on the Getting There ride to the official Getting There Ride as we made our way across to Hillston with Sean from Yamaha last Tuesday. Right from the get-go you made it clear you were pretty green and new to the big wide world of adventure bike riding, but you definitely had the right attitude and were keen to dive in at the deep-end, so good on you! Now look at you a week later: all keen to get out there and practise your tyre changes and then fire up again for the next Tragics Run! Thanks a bundle for sharing your photos: we love the home-made rego plate in the final pic! Thanks again for joining in and we'll see you next year!

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-08T15:30:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL MAIL:

TRAGIC TROY REPORTS IN

Dear Clubby and Tania: Firstly, thanks so very much for the Run to the Rocks 2011 ride. Had a fantastic time, meeting lots of fellow Tragics, and the Flinders Ranges were spectacular. I had a good run home from Arkaroola, getting home about 6am Monday morning all safe and well.

I have sent through some pics that to me are all things Tenere!! You (Clubby) with Dave's 83 at the ruins north of Yunta. The first big dry crossing that caused a bit of carnage. Friday's lunch break at Chambers Gorge. Tenere's old and new at Arkaroola and finally me and my '09.

It was great to see so many people on the ride from all over the country, all united by a motorbike and your idea to hold this event.

I learnt a lot about the bike and the countryside of western NSW and the Flinders Ranges and now can't wait to get back up that way and maybe even Cameron Corner or Birdsville and maybe even a desert run one day.

Looking forward to finding out what could possibly next for the Tragics in 2012!

Once again, thanks to you and Tania and the TRAIL ZONE team.

-- Troy Mattson, Ténéré Tragic #31

Thanks for the email and your photos, Troy. I just love that pic in the centre ... "Tragic down! Tragic down!" I heard there was a little carnage back in the dry creek bed as we carved our way from Yunta to Holowilena, but it adds a whole new dimension to actually see photos of it. Look at all those pannier cases littering the ground -- awesome! I'm just stoked that all the boys at the back of the pack chewed down some Moto Cement and carried on, that's the Ténéré Spirit. See you next year mate, for sure.

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1

2011-03-08T12:45:00.000-08:00

TÉNÉRÉ TRAGICS TRAIL TIP:

SAVE THAT XT600Z REGO PLATE!

To all our Tragics riding new XT660Zs Ténérés who flung their rego plates off into the rocks and rubble on the side of the trail somewhere in the Flinders Ranges last weekend, well, all I can say is 20/20 hindsight is a wonderful thing ... but boys, you obviously weren't reading TRAIL ZONE closely enough!

Back in issue 28 of TRAIL ZONE in one of our of first updates on our XT660Z Ténéré Project Bike, one of the first mods Dr Phil made to our bike was to shift the rego plate up under the tail light, spin the rego plate lamp around 180 degrees to shine upwards, and then trim off the lower part of the rear guard extension, with a small slice of rubber/foam hanging low to help give a more legal look. He then also remounted the blinkers up higher (see pic) -- although where the blinkers are placed will clash if you run soft saddlebags. I use a Giant Loop Great Basin bag on the XT660Z and it mounts fine and misses the relocated blinkers.

So guys, once you're done down at the RTA getting your replacement rego plate ordered, get down to the workshop and make this mod. And then all cry in unison: "Thanks, Dr Phil!"

-- Clubby, Ténéré Tragic #1