October Meeting Summary

1 October 2008
October MVTR Meeting

            The October meeting began at a somewhat delayed 19:30, there was hope that attendance would be improved as we got closer to 20:00, figuring that not everyone got the message that we were now on fall (can’t bring myself to call it winter just yet) schedule. It may have been the daylight-induced curtailment of the pre-meeting ride or the (unfounded) fear that there wouldn’t be enough pizza but in the end only about 35 members were present.

            First on the agenda were reports of who had been riding where. Among the events of the last month in which MVTR riders participated were:

            The Buckfield International Invitational 2 Day Trail Ride is set up in a similar format to the Colorado 500. Mark, Dan, Tuck and 33 others left Buckfield on Saturday in led, ability (or perhaps “chosen speed”) groups to make their way to Sunday River where they enjoyed a banquet, night sleep and breakfast before returning to Buckfield on Sunday by way of different trails. Tuck observed that some of the AA level riders turned out to be C level drinkers, which may have had something to do with all of the groups arriving at about the same time!
            The Hawk Ride is an invitational ride dedicated to Tom McAlpine. For 2008 there were 36 riders who enjoyed the 80-mile trail ride along with entertainment by the King’s Highway band and a BBQ by Goodie Cole’s. Proceeds will go to cancer charities. Only one injury was noted, in his own (sort of) words, Bird had to wobble home on a flat tire because it was less painful than walking or fixing it.
            Despite rain prior to the event, conditions at the Ammo, i.e. the Ammonoosuc River Turkey Run were described as good traction, perfect temperature and little standing water.
            Rick reported on two enduros. The Mudslinger (now Hell in the Hills) was said to be “nasty”, substantial rain added to tough terrain yielded a total of 8 official finishers. Finishing 7th, he said it was one of the toughest events he’d ever ridden. Diametrically opposite was Newark, a long, 7 hour ride to get there but great riding, even for the “C” riders. He earned a 6th there.
            Pete reported that Unadilla was like riding a roller coaster on a dirt bike. He was among the 450 or so riders in the morning race, earning a 5th in class and 45th overall. All agreed that the dirt and layout were great … for the morning race; the afternoon race was an entirely different story. Heavy rain turned much of the track into a mudbug for the afternoon riders.

            In off road news:
            NHATV announced the 1st Annual Wal-Mart/Children’s Miracle Network ATV Ride. The ride will take place on 25 October 2008 at Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham, NH. No word in the announcement regarding use of bikes, a description of the trails as being mostly suitable for younger & beginner riders might indicate it not being challenging for an experienced dirt bike rider but perhaps a great way to enjoy a nice fall day with the family. For information packet & Pre-registration email Clinton Robinson ccrobin@wal-mart.com.
            Umbagog ATV riders were close but unsuccessful in their bid to obtain permission for OHRVs to be operated on some roads in Coos County. This is a trend that is passing in some areas of the country where the value of OHRV recreation to the communities has been realized. It will probably return for reconsideration.

            We were joined for the evening by Jay McGrath, known by many in the off road world as the voice of Jolly Roger Motosport Park and the owner of the MX track that many have sampled while riding day 2 of the New England Classic Charity Trail Ride. Jay is now Sales and Marketing Advisor to Western Power Sports, Inc and brought many samples of new, innovative riding gear and helmets for dirt riders (helmets for snowmobile riding as well), in addition he brought samples of some new tires they are producing. When not working in the power sports industry, Jay is a driving force in the Hawk Ride mentioned earlier.

            Ray told us about some of the BBR type riding available in VT through CCC of VT. They have about 940 miles of back/dirt roads route sheeted.
            John advised us that the Classic Committee would be meeting later this month. If you would like to work on the committee, contact Lisa @ [email=no-new-eng@cff.org]no-new-eng@cff.org[/email].

            Last but most certainly not least is our Rocky Mountain Enduro! Several work days have been held and much of the work is done but it is not too late to join in the preparation for our 26 October 2008 event. Tuck will be leading a select contingent into the wilds of Alton @ 08:30 on Friday morning. Rick has several projects to undertake on Sunday 5 October 2008, all available members are requested to meet at the Alton Circle McDonalds @ 08:00. There will also be a (not yet scheduled) work party over the holiday weekend and final touches on Saturday the 25th. Lots of check workers, general help, tech. and some sweep riders needed on event day. Two all off-road laps (52 miles) have been route sheeted, Key Time is 09:00, Brand X rules. There will be a Saturday afternoon sign-up available between 16:00 and 17:30.

Bruce