- breakdown insurance paperwork
- getting rego paperwork together to transfer from WA to NSW
- doing the finances of the ride.
- Sydney to Balladonia via the big ticket attractions was 16187kms. This was on the black 2007 Suzuki M50.
- Tow truck rides (courtesy of Steve), 470kms
- Esperance to Sydney on the 2012 Suzuki M109R, 4265kms
- Total on bikes 20452kms
- Roger did just over 20,000kms as he didn't have to do the Esperance to Balladonia rerun.
How much did the ride cost? (ex bike replacement)
- I paid for nearly everything on plastic so it was easy to track (only had one roadhouse knock back tap&go on the mobile phone!)
- We did run a kitty that looked after common expenses like accommodation.
- The costings are rounded to nearest $10
- Petrol $2,160
- Food $1,890
- Accom $810
- Other $150
- Tyres and Service $800
- Total $5,750
- $100 per day
You could do this trip easily for half this amount if you free camped and cooked.
The right equipment?
- I would choose a bike with a bigger fuel tank next time, however the bike was comfortable for the trip (except for the Qld roads)
- Never used the table or the chair.
- Used the Sat phone once.
- My normal mobile provider is Optus. I bought a Telstra sim for the spare phone I carried and that was a smart move. If you want to keep in contact on a daily basis with loved ones, Telstra is your only option.
- CB was not used, however as with the Sat phone, it's for emergencies. So OK.
- Rog used the puncture repair kit in Kakadu and I used mine the evening prior to departure! (Have 10 CO2 canisters, normal repair will take 5, you need extra)
- The Sena intercom made hazard warnings and town riding sooooo much easier. We didn't spend the day prattling; conversation was as needed.
- I took too many clothes! And forgot thermals and beanie.
Overall feeling
- Loved it!
- Met some great people!
- It's an amazing country that everyone should get out and see some of on a motorcycle while they can.
- Do it with a friend (preferably on a separate bike).
- I will do it again, as a cager with my wife and catch many of the things we rode by on this trip.
- As you're reading this blog I hope that it was entertaining and gave you ideas of places to visit and the urge to Just Do It!
- If you do it, please share it on the various Facebook groups that I've shared (especially Motorcycle Camping Australia).
- Thanks all who followed and commented along the way. It was great to be able to share it with you.
No photos today, so I thought I'd share a few I liked from the last 57 days.
So until the next ride.......
Ride Hard, Live Long \\ //
PS. Yes, I had to go for a run to the shops today, just can't go cold turkey.
PS. Yes, I had to go for a run to the shops today, just can't go cold turkey.