ME AND MY DUSTY FRIEND

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When planning my journey between Adelaide and Darwin, I wanted a motorcycle that would be reliable and comfortable. At the time I didn't think power and speed would be of great importance, so I chose an off-road type of bike, a Yamaha XT660 Tenere. The bike carried me all the way without any problems at all, apart from a puncture. I lubricated the chain when necessary, and filled some oil along the way.

Going at a relaxed speed, the motorcycle was very comfortable, but I would have appreciated a bit more power. I travelled mostly between 110-145 km/h, but I felt I had to ‘hold’ the bike up there, and I copped a lot of wind. With the wind head on, I couldn't get it past 120km/h.  And at times I actually got a slightly stiff neck from fighting the gusts of side-wind that kept pulling at my helmet . At times you'd think there was an intelligence somewhere out there determined to pull my helmet off! All in all; It was a comfortable ride, but with a more sporty bike, I could have travelled faster with more protection against wind.

Also, the motorcycle insurance didn’t allow me to travel on dirt roads, so the bike was never tested in what it is best at, off-road work. I met a bloke not far from Port Augusta who’d just bought a Tenere to herd his stock. He said the bike was perfect for chasing up and down the scrub-land.

 

I got the bike from Show and Go in Adelaide. The dealer provided luggage bags, top-box and a tank box. Between them they held just enough room for my belongings, including film equipment – and my clogs! I don’t go anywhere without them... Show and Go, Adelaide

Paul and Michael gave me all possible help and service to get the bike out the door. A friendly couple of blokes I can recommend if you want to rent a bike down there yourself. I believe they can get you any sort of vehicle on wheels, even trikes and quad-bikes.  The first time I rented a motorcycle from them a few years back, it was a racing- bike. Why not ask them for a Harley, as well, if that's what you want! Michael and Paul at Show and Go

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