Oink Oink! Toot Toot!
We’re off to the Pig and Whistle in Trentham East for lunch. This quaint 1940s hotel sits at an isolated intersection amongst a farmland setting once famous for potato growing in the area’s rich red volcanic soil. The food at this hotel has been personally road tested by Pete, Jo, Noel and David and determined to be several cuts above standard pub fare.
Ride description:
This is a cracker of a ride. Our route will swing out in a big loop north west of Melbourne to take in some beautiful roads that are bliss for two wheel riding. From our start point in Eltham, we’ll ride through Nutfield and Arthurs Creek then cross the Hume Highway at Wallan. There are some wonderful views to admire between Darraweit Gum and Romsey. After passing through Woodend, we will take some pretty forested roads around Ashbourne which will have your soul singing. There is a nice little surprise later in the day as we climb out of the Jacksons Creek valley on a short 1km section of dirt road to pop out at Clarkefield where we’ll wheel our Vespas across the railway line.
Come prepared:
June is a winter month. Although weather will be weather, June sometimes surprises with bright sunny days. Winter sun is warm but the air temperature can be chilly so rug up and bring your mid-layer clothes. As long as you are dry, warm and cosy winter riding can be just as much fun. Your reward will be a hearty hot meal at the Pig and Whistle. The route totals 230 kms and will be ridden at a leisurely pace. The ride is suitable for all including experienced beginners who have a number of years of riding under their belt. We should be back in Melbourne around 3:30-4:00pm.
Departure Point and Time:
The ride will depart promptly at 9:30am from Cafe Zen Den, 736 Main Road, Eltham. Come earlier if you want to breakfast here. The cafe opens at 7am. This cafe has no signage so it's easy to miss. It consists of an old house adjoining a former shop. If coming from the city, it's on the right a few streets past Mount Pleasant Road. Parking is behind the premises down the drive. Remember, please arrive with a full tank.
Pete and David are looking forward to your company. Please confirm your attendance soon as we need to book a table or two. All aboard for the oink oink, toot toot ride!
Comments
No worries David! I'm planning to get there by 9am and am allowing time to refuel nearby as have no idea of my range at the moment!...will have a spare litre of fuel just in case!
Thanks for your message Bo. That's good news. We will have a few geared scooters along for the ride on Sunday including my slow old girl. See you Sunday at Zen Den, Eltham where we can start introducing you to other club members. We do leave on the dot at 9:30am. David
Did some work to the PX200 on the weekend and successfully completed a 50km round trip, so I'm in. Looking forward to the run, lunch and meeting some of the club members for the first time!
Hi Jim, sorry for the late reply. I'm sure the LX125 would be up to the task as we are not going to be riding fast, about 80-85 kms/hr. However I feel it might be a 'big' first ride for a learner. I've noted in the past that many early leaners are nervous to do more than city speeds out on open country roads which is not safe and effects the planned timing for the ride. I also know that a 230-km day ride in the saddle requires a certain amount of stamina. We have a short 1-km section of dirt road which climbs steeply out of a gully. Forgive me, I don't want to question Deb's riding ability, but it might be best to look out for a shorter club ride that takes in some rural areas on the outskirts of the city. Constant practice is essential to becoming a confident rider. Put this to Deb and see how she feels. You are also welcome to give me a call to discuss further if that helps. Best wishes, David
Hello all, I have booked a table for 10. On Sundays the Pig and Whistle offer a three course roast and selected items from their regular menu.
Hi Pam, sorry for the late reply. The route back to Melbourne ends up in Pascoe Vale Road, Moonee Ponds. You could then take Mt Alexander Road into the city. Is that of any help to you?