Six motorcycles assembled at 8am at Loftus Oval for what promised to be a fine winter ride. We missed John this morning, but Drew kindly stepped up to lead, and it was decided our destination would be the historic Imperial Hotel at Clifton.
We headed down to Waterfall, then took the Old Princes Highway to Helensburgh and on towards Bulli. Riding down Bulli Pass, we turned left onto Lawrence Hargrave Drive, making our way to the Imperial. The morning sun created a few challenging moments, demanding extra care on the road. It was a cool ride overall, and when we stopped, Russell made a beeline for Perry’s bike to warm his hands on the heated grips.
The Imperial Hotel, with its old-world charm, was especially welcoming today. The fireplaces were lit, and smooth jazz added to the atmosphere. As always, conversation turned to bikes and tyres, then drifted to fishing stories. Garry mentioned he was baking a cheesecake today, which prompted Drew to recall Ron Jarvis and his famous custard tarts. That led Perry to share a favourite Ron story: after a medical check-up, Ron’s doctor apparently told him, “If you’d like a second opinion, I’ll use two fingers.”
Eventually it was time to mount up again. We rode over the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge, up to Stanwell Tops, and back through the Royal National Park, turning left at McKell Avenue to Waterfall and on to Heathcote, where we said our farewells.
Thanks to everyone who came along, and a special thanks to Drew for leading today’s ride.
Perry #28669
