Mawson Lakes

With wet weather looming off we went, on the edge of the train line through Mawson Lakes to Dry Creek.

Following Dry Creek to 99 Bikes where we arranged to pick up one of our group.

From there up the side of the O-Bahn and around Happy Valley Reservoir. It’s a shame that a lot of the trail is on pavement around the outside of the grounds. It seems the bare minimum has been done to open this reservoir to the public when compared to others.

Up and over the hill to Aqueduct trail. Good to see the trail open again but sad to see the number of trees cleared due to the infestation of Giant Pine Scale. Still a nice trail to ride but once again my arch nemesis got me. Up and over the fallen tree, in my defence the wood was wet (my excuse and I’m sticking to it) a couple of guys slid but didn’t come off the plank.

Down to the Torrens which was heavily swollen due to recent rain seeking out the single tracks. Unfortunately, the water covered some of the trails so alternative routes were found.

Next stop Va Bene for coffee. The food was good, as usual, but a printer error cancelled the coffee order. After several complaints and over an hour late the coffees appeared to much apologies. Print paper ran out so order didn’t reach the coffee dept. Anyhow after more apologies we were presented with discount vouchers, score.

Time to go and under a bit of a time constraint headed straight back up the edge of the O-Bahn. Attempting to get over a tree root, foot off, dropped over the root and pedal pins down the ankle ripping my socks and skin. Ouch.

Down came the rain, still better than stinking hot, and back to 99 Bike where we said goodbye to our mate right at the time he needed to be back.

Rain stopped. Continuing back down Dry Creek trail by Yatala Prison we took a detour to the Stockade waterfall. A hidden gem, quiet and peaceful. Unfortunately, bikes are not allowed so we sneaked in and out.

Uneventful ride back to the railway station.

Good ride, a little damp but good. 51 Km, 556 m elevation with an average of 15.3 kph.

Cobbler Creeking

Nice day for ride WTF happened.

Off to a bad start, forgot to lock the car, doh! A quick sprint back, locked the door and back to the group.

Heading down the Little Parra wondering which underpass will be flooded we reached Port Wakefield Road. All clear. A quick loop around the horse paddocks, through a muddy single track to where the ye-olde trails were, before the new road was built, crossing some water and sludge.

As we headed towards Mawson Lakes I noticed a distinct lack of power in the legs and feeling a bit meh.

Usual route through Mawson with some grumblings of a dick who parked his car across the foot path. Don’t know what his problem was, not a word crossed my lips or rude hand gesture, just a shake of the head.

Across Briens Road and up the first climb towards the old Magazine. Struggled up the climb, pain in both knees and flat as a fart. Once at the top we took the wrong trail down, my fault turned off too early, we ended up heading back up hill after a curly bar tumble.

Pushed back to the top and hooked up on the intended down track. Unfortunately we had a curly bar, tubeless setup puncture. After a top up of sealant the hole revealed itself right on top of the sidewall requiring a plug.  Once plugged and inflated we set off again, legs not feeling it at all, we headed up Dry Creek to Wynn Vale.

Up the Golden Way to the shopping centre for food and beverages at Zitto. Scrambled eggs, coffee and protein balls went down a treat. Did bugger all for the energy level though.

Top of Cobblers, not feeling too flash, I decided to head down the ruins loop in the opposite direction (down our usual climb) heading out of the park via the berms.

Singles track down from cobblers when the Scooter Slinger decided to test the front wheel grip ending in a wash out fail. No injury though so onwards and upwards.

More or less coasted back to the golf club.

A good, but a slow hard slog for me, not sure what happened but shit happens and just when you think it’s all good shit happens again. Just to top it off I managed to delete the ride from the Hammerhead while up loading. Well I suppose if it didn’t make it to Strava it never happened hehe.

Torrens Trekking.

Bit of a soggy ride up to the Brick Works, luckily it dried up when we got there.

I had intended to run the ride up the river due to the ongoing works heading down towards the coast. Usual bollocks with useless signage and zero direction around the works. I knew this from a previous annoying ride so I mapped it with Ride With Gps so we could do all the single track.

Good to see the Salisbury Scooter Slinger back from injury, albeit rocking a strange horse with curly bars.

One of the largest ride groups, for a while, and a surprise visit from Tank, off we went. No messing, straight down the single track, over the BMX track and down to the river.

After a little rain it was hero dirt all the way, down the first section along the rivers edge turning around and back tracking just before works section. Some confusion from behind, backtracking to a bridge crossing to the opposite bank, we stopped for a little explainer about avoiding works and roads as much as pos.

Off again dropping down a steepish section, just out of sight around the bend, two kids digging holes on the trail to build jumps. They were very apologetic as I rolled through a mound of dirt. One guy took a tumble but unhurt, a few of the followers recommended the kids took more care with the jump building.

It’s good to see kids out n about building jumps and trails but they all seem to dig holes and use the dirt front and back of the hole to create take offs and landings. This all good for the youngsters but not too flash for us oldies (we break easier and take longer to heal), as we just end up with holes everywhere. Digging the dirt away from the trail and creating table tops, albeit small one, would satisfy everyone and when the jumps breakdown it doesn’t leave holes.

Anyhoo, moan over onward again passing the works on the opposite bank at Findon to the next bridge. Over the bridge and back up the trail to turn around again heading towards the coast and the next pain in the arse, bridge works Henley Beach Road. This time it was a hike a bike across the stepping stones in the Torrens to the opposite bank.

A short detour later we were back on trail and down the back of Apex Park to the coast for refreshments.

Again we stopped at Skala Artisan Bakery. After some rearrangement of chairs from inside to out we settled into some excellent coffee, cake, pies. Putting the world to rights and a little light hearted piss taking we were ready to continue on. I highly recommend this bakery and I’m not alone.

Back to the Torrens and along the Breakout Creek walking trail and over the next bridge. Back tracking trails to the stepping stones, not crossing this time, business as usual. Picking up all the dirt to the Brick Works.

A quick run around the Torrens lake and back to the start.

40km ride in excellent conditions with good people. Using Ride With GPS made it less triggering for FMB comments, always a good thing.

Random Roaming Salisbury.

A cool and over cast start with the usual where the fuck shall we go. I won’t mention I was the only male today, oops I did. I decided we would roam around the local trails going up and down. If we ride up a hill, we would also ride back down it at some stage.

Off we went to Carisbrook Park, up, down, up down rinse and repeat. Car park fenced off so it’s around the pout side to the bridge fmd fencing attached to the bridge so across the stepping stones to the other side. I’m always amazed wherever places are fenced off there is no consideration for pedestrians or cyclists. Signage would be a good idea for starters and if space allows, away from the works, a way through outside the barriers. The Carisbrook car park fencing lets you go around it but at the end fixes it to the bridge wtf.

Anyway whinge over and onwards to the next up, down and back, or so I thought hehe.

Carrying on through the Old Spot market, up the gravel road to the top. This route has changed quite a bit since the last time I was out there with a loop down and back up and out. When we hit the bottom a conversation arose about going straight through the farm and out the other side. Fuck it, let’s go, up down and back abandoned.

Out through the farm, stinking of horse piss, we were at the bottom of Rifle Range Road. Lets ride up, how hard can it be, never been up this road. Turns out it is long and steep, pedaled up until, with the nose of the saddle attempting to brutalize my rectum, I couldn’t steer no more. Off n push for a bit watching one of the group disappear up the hill (legend). Back on the bike and heading towards the top we came across a trail to the left, checked it‘s not a dead end on the Karoo, down we went steep but grippy. Up again on the same track and around to the right heading somewhere near Greenwith until we came across Rifle Range Road.

Off the road and down the trail towards the coffee stop at the General Store At The Heart, Salisbury Heights. A little cool outside and a few complaints from the ladies, we sat outside. Some good conversations/moans while consuming the excellent coffee and food. It started to rain a little so off we went.

Back to Carisbrook, down the trails and up the steep path to the top where we met a group from Cycle Salisbury. Back down into the Jenkins Reserve and exiting Fendon Road. Back down towards Pitman Park we crossed paths the CS group again. Back to the golf club managing to just about reach the 30 km minimum ride distance.

On reflection a failure of the 7 P principal, Prior Planning and Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance, made for an unstructured ride. Lazy twat, must do better.

Still a good ride with only a little rain and some guidance from the Flasher. 30 km long and 495 m climbing.

Southern Outing.

What a fabulous day for this longer than normal outing.

Pre C2V, coast to vines.

Setting off, we crossed South Road and headed down the cycle path. Following the train line through Brighton and Marino to the start of the C2V, the path steadily climbs.

C2V Part 1.

This cycle path runs all the way to Willunga, about 40 km long, and is bitumen all the way.

Onwards and upwards, through Hallet Cove train station continuing on past the shopping centre, still on the cycle path heading towards the Southern Expressway. After hooning down the hill, a couple of k’s before the Expressway, we took a right turn down to the Dirty Velo.

Dirty Velo.

I would describe this trail as gravel tracks, winding down, above, bellow the edge of the Express Way.

Although not exactly dirt it is still better than the bitumen cycle paths. There are several steepish ascents, although not too long it’s made trickier with the gravel to keep a good line and grip. This was the first time I managed to climb all without stopping to push. Well done to everyone on these climbs.

Continuing on, crossing over several main roads we took a right at Noarlunga Downs which ended the DV trail for us today and coasted down to the Onkaparinga River.

Onkaparinga River.

We headed up the river trail riding over the wooden boardwalk, along the river bank to the C2V bridge crossing. It’s the first time I have seen kangaroos on this side, bounding about, luckily they were a bit further inland from the river bank.

Up and over the bridge and back on to the river trail, through the stupid double restrictive device. Authorities need to be informed modern bikes are wider and need clearance on the rear end to get through these steel structures, having said that it’s manageable but not as easy as it could be especially with some eeeeeebs.

We followed the track along the river edge, over the hump, passing where we dropped in on the other side, and under the train line. Onwards and around the rivers edge until we hit a flooded section. After a bit of umming and arring I decided fuck it and rode through. Just one wet foot as I went down a rut but otherwise ok. The aquaphobic rest of the crew, hehe, decided to pick the way trough the scrub, no worries, each to their own. I will come a cropper one day and they will have the last laugh on me.

A little further on, bits of flooding and mud. First time the Yeti has seen mud since I got it, it’s been a very dry spring/summer. A bit of slip n slide under wheels until we hit the fork in the trail. Been here before when wet n muddy, left or right which was the best or least bogged way? Alzheimer’s again. Right fork I think, yup got it right this time. The Phantom Flasher commented, not one for the Whinging Wednesday Wenches hehe,  I added the Whinging bit and no offence intended to the Wenches hehe.

Starvation and thirst were kicking in now, well it had been about 5 hours since breakfast, we headed out of Pingle Farm.

Down the busy Commercial Road to Beck Bakehouse for some well-earned refreshments. Busy, as always, Becks is my go-to stop when down this way. Huge selection of food, beverages, reasonably priced and delicious. Only problem is I could stuff my face full, which is not good for the ride home hehe. I can’t recommend this place enough.

After a good refuelling and the world put to rights it’s time for the return trails.

We set off from Port Noarlunga, up the hill and down to Christies Beach South. They are building a board walk from Port Nooarlunga to Christies which will be an interesting ride when completed. At the moment the boardwalk starts at the port and terminates about halfway along the cliff face. Construction is underway from the Christies end, no idea on a completion date.

Continuing up the coast, blue sky, blue sea, living the dream to the start of the Christies Creek trail.

Christies Creek Trail.

Single track dirt trails turning into bitumen paths in sections crossing a few roads along the way. Riding up the creek switching sides all the way we came to a creek crossing, well piles of rocks dumped in the creek bed. Two guys rode over it and up the other side. I, however, along with the rest walked it, again it’s a mental thing. One day, one day……

Next, it’s down the rocky section to the huge tunnel under the rail line. Bustin for a piss, had to go funny can’t remember drinking orangeade but was pissing it anyway, not enough fluids which will bite me in the arse a bit later. Through the tunnel then crossing the DV, we came down earlier, under Main South Road to the C2V.

C2V Part 2.

A quick stop and a gel before taking a left turn heading up the C2V. Pretty much bitumen path and a steady climb to the top of Main South Road/Reynella Bypass Road. Looking from the top we could see the DV across the valley as we headed to where we dropped in but this time took the opposite track.

C2V done we rode the dirt trails to Adams Road and proceeded up to O’Halloran Hill. Man, I miss the old trail that ran parallel to Adams but the new intersection has swallowed it up. I find it a grind up the straight road to the mountain bike trails but hey hoe, means to an end.

O’HH

Thought we would do a couple of easy trails while we up there. Don’t think the legs could manage anything more at this point hehe. So we rode Haarsmar’s, Sylvanian, Wiggles to the tunnel nice flowy trails. Then Out The Back and down the Pipeline, nice and cruisy end to OHH

On to the Warriparinga Wetlands to the scene of a previous thumb injury, thanks to steel path edging, with a short stop and explanation hehe. Just about got to Marrion Road and cramp in the right leg, managed to ride it off with a bit of twinging.  Over the train line to Minchinbury Terrace, cramp in the left leg. Bastard, lack of hydration did bite me in the arse, never learn, stupid is as stupid does hehe. Got rid of it just over Daws but it was teetering on the edge all the way back.

Ride over.

Stats: just under 74 km, 727 m climbing, average speed 15.1 km/h and 4:50 moving time.

Longest group ride to date. Somewhere different for a change, well done everyone.

Cobbler Creeking.

Will it rain or wont it, that was the question. Lucky for us zero rain, whoo hoo.

Another question, which way we going to go? I’m leading the ride and I didn’t have a plan so let’s wing it.

Setting out from the golf club we headed up the Little Parra River and past the Phantom Flashers favourite trees, no probs, this time. Trees along the single track are marked with red paint. Hmm, what’s going on trimming trees or laying a bitumen path, maybe both time will tell.

Nice steady ride up to Cobblers, where now?

Up the Babbler to the top, over the road and down the Ruins loop. The trail seemed smoother than usual on the way down, trail maintenance? If yes well done if no must be my Alzheimer’s hehe.

Continuing on the Ruins Loop another nice, steady ride up the switchbacks to complete the whole trail.

Left at the sign post following the single track to the housing estate at the top.

Next destination Wynn Vale dam and down Dry Creek to Valley View. Along the single track below the Women’s prison. Uphill again, this time to the old Magazine and down to Briens Road.

Time for food and coffee and we hit the Fabulous Bakery Boys at Pooraka. It’s been a while but the food and beverages are still awesome. Good chatting and light hearted banter.

Re fuelled it’s time to head back to the start. Slightly different route to normal, this time up the track via Montague Farm, down Bridge Road through the Paddocks and on to Mawson Lakes.

Left hand side of the train line up to Salisbury, past the funeral parlour, down the side of the Golf course and a run around the duck pond brought up the 50k. Done!

Great ride, 50 km and 530 m climbing.

Mawson Lakes Café Va Bene.

We set out heading down the usual trails today but I had another route in mind. A little further on Dry Creek trail than normal we turned off and headed over to North East Road. Winding up the side roads we eventually arrived at Anstey Hill Recreation Park.

Time for a short stop before the climb to the top. A quick conversation about which GPS unit is best for route following, Garmin, Wahoo or Hammerhead, I reckon the Hammerhead is better than my experiences with the Garmin but can’t comment on the quality of Wahoo. The only problem I have with the Hammerhead is when it rains. If I don’t put the “Rain Lock” on in the unit rain drops put points of interest on the screen. Screen lock turns the touch screen off and you have to use the side button.

From there we continued the “up” theme winding our way to the top. About half way up the winds picked up blowing dust across the trails. We thought we were going to be hit with the promised rain but it did not appear. Nice climb to the top but the legs didn’t agree, still, made it to the top.

Best thing about slogging up the hill is the ride down the other side.

Heading across the top of Ansteys parallel with Range Road then the downhill started.

A fairly shortish run down to Lower North East Road we crossed over and into the disused quarry. Down a couple of levels on the gravel roads brought us out to a fantastic view of the lake. It looks a lot better when the sun shines on it but still impressive on this over cast day.

Funny watching a guy lower down chasing his dog which was chasing either a feral sheep or goat. Luckily the dog didn’t catch its prey.

Interestingly at the last state election the Marshall government promised to make this quarry into a leisure complex called Crystal Lake. Swimming, diving, walking and mountain biking. However, they lost the election and the incoming government scrapped the project.

Winding our way down the gravel, taking care not to be caught out in the cross ruts and rock-strewn roads, we came across another lake a lot lower down. Interesting to see the difference between the rock faces between the two excavations.

A bit lower down you could tell we were closer to captivity when the scenery turned to a dump. Tyres and shit everywhere wtf. From what I can see it takes a great effort to get to the location to dump the stuff in the first place.

Anyhow past the dumping ground and on to the Torrens track. Over a couple of bridges and up a short, steep, dirt climb off camber at the top. Almost at the top and brain was telling me to keep left but the arms had other ideas steering right onto steeper bits until the legs gave out and stopped on the slope, sort of stuck but managed to hop off with a nice imprint of the pedal spikes on the shin slowly oozing blood hehe. Oh the joys of flat pedals.

We took the normal tracks n trail down the Torrens to Bene for a well-earned coffee.

I must say it was the fastest service we have had in all the years we have visited this venue. Coffee, eggs on toast and cake were awesome. Sat around chatting and relaxing had to be cut short due to a shopping delivery later in the day.

Onward and upwards along the O-Bahn to dry creek heading back to the start. Down on the creek side, straight on or up the hill for a nice ride down to Briens Road? Up it is, with a “no Mark” cry coming from the rear as we took the up track. Always a good ride down the other side.

Back to the start with no incidents and the end of a very enjoyable ride. 58 km ride with 650 m elevation gain.

Random roaming Salisbury.

Kind of hard to find an interesting random Salisbury ride without going over other routes but I think we got it mostly right.

No real plan for the ride so it was suck it n see trying to remember and eek out bits of trail from when I lived in the area.

Setting off in perfect weather and looping around as much off road as possible up to the train line at Edinburgh.

Up the train line until we came across the water running off from the air base. Last time I rode through the water there, admittedly a few years back, it fucked up my brakes. Riding around sounding like there are pigs strapped to the wheels is not my idea of fun. Managed to clean up the disks but the pads were rooted. A short walk on the tracks avoided it this time.

Chucking a left over the tracks on a road to nowhere, what a dump, a literal dump. Crap everywhere, we interrupted a dodgy looking guy in a 4x4 about to unload the old wheels and tyres from the back of his vehicle. He jumped back in the cab and ducked out of sight but we had seen him. Riding past he got a bit of abuse about illegal dumping but I imagine he dumped it with the rest once we left. Dirty bastards.

We set off to find the back track to the Burton wet lands but I missed the turn down the road where it was and ended up on Waterloo Corner Road instead. No biggie, just less dirt.

Up, down and around the single tracks of the wet lands, down to Paralowie for a tinkle stop. Tinkles done. down to the Watershed for coffee and a talking to. Well it wouldn’t be a ride without upsetting somebody.

Once again, service with a scowl from one of the staff, the same one that told us off for not walking the bikes around the walk ways. However, Resting Bitch Face should pay more attention to service, by the time the food came coffees either cold or consumed. Food delivered to the table, no cutlery, no salt n pepper, not a good look for a service industry when you have to serve yourself.

However, the food was good as always.

From there back up the train line, Parafield Gardens to Salisbury and the Golf Club.

Torrens Trekking. FMD.

What a beautiful day for a ride.

Loads of Spoke To A Bloke walkers about this morning so we headed up the river to begin.

We jumped across South Road and headed to our usual trail along the river, however, trail was closed off. “Path Closed” that’s it, bugger off and find your own way a common theme on the Torrens.

Back on track and up to the weir. Normally we would head further up the Torrens and loop back down the others side of the river but, yes, you have guessed it “foot path closed” So we turned around early, taking a lot of Ks off the ride, along the bottom of the golf course and up the edge of the train line.

Back towards the start and down the single track along the right-hand side of the river, nice and cool in the shade of the trees. Nice to see the water flowing again after recent rain up until then the lower river was bone dry.

Skipping across to the opposite bank riding all the single track available when, yup, you guessed it, “path closed”

We found a way back to the trail and set off again. A few K later and, for fuck’s sake “path closed” again.

Back on the trail again back of breakout creek by the jump tracks and down the sea front to our coffee stop Skala Artisan Bakery. Excellent coffee and cakes, I highly recommend this bakery.

Back up the coast, past the Spoke To a Bloke blokes, up over the bridge and down to the mouth of the river. What a stink coming from the foam in the water trapped between the ocean and the concrete river bed. As there wasn’t ant water in the concrete section we took a ride across to the other side, naughty. I’m sure they will fence off access in the near future.

Eventually on the right hand up stream single track and fuck me dead again. Nice crossing of Tapleys Hill Road, not, very busy and no central refuge.

Not long before another fuck me dead moment. Luckily the last one of the ride. Maybe one day the trails will be open both ways top to bottom but I’m not holding my breath.

So nice on the single track back to the Brick Works to finish the ride.

Usually 40km ish ride but shortened to 30km due to FMD moments. Moving time 1hr 50m.

PS the phantom flasher was told off by a dick on legs for using her bell. Bell ends everywhere, can’t win either way. FMD.

Hot Day Early Start Random Roaming.

Again, forecast 37c so 7.00 am start it is. With the intension of finishing by 11.00 am

It was going to be a flat as a fart 40 km ride but that felt boring so we decided, when I say we I mean I, to do a Cobblers loop in reverse.

7.15 am off we went heading for Carisbrooke Park. As we were passing through the zig zag restriction fence by the old folks’ home we were confronted by a voice from the bushes. An elderly lady emerged, bare foot needing to contact someone to come pick her up. The Phantom Flasher obliged and after a few phone calls she was sorted and we were off again.

Through Carisbrooke, missing the Park runners (not started yet) thank fuck.

Heading out of Carisbrooke and up to Cobblers Creek recreational park we rode the Ruins Loop out to the top and cruised down the Grove Way to Wynn Vale Dam to pick up Dry Creek.

Heading down the Dry Creek Trail you realise how much you actually ride up hill going the other way even though it seems pretty flat. Still managed to find a few single-track dirt tracks that the council haven’t ruined, yet on the way through. Must be a shortage of bitumen hehe.

Stopped off at a bike shop to pick up some supplies as we were passing. Some legit and some not so, we will leave it at that.

Continuing down Dry Creek we passed two police officers on e-mountain bikes, nice work if you can get it, coming out of the trail below Yatala Prison. Thought they were on to us but no, they rode on.

Nice trails along the left-hand side of the creek, Strava calls it Conjugal Visits, interesting. Then across the creek, up to the old magazine and down past the massive jumps to Bridge Road.

Starting to warm up a bit now and deadline looking shaky, where shall we stop for coffee? Bakery Boys, usually not open early but Google says it’s open at 7.00? La Vita and Water Shed both with slow service? Had to be the Boat Deck, even though it was busy we got fairly fast service. Coffee great, conversation great, some interesting scenery and meh vanilla slice.

Woofed it down anyway, and off up the drag of a ride, Parafield Airport, road up to Salisbury in an attempt to make the 11.00 dead line.

11.15, bugger, didn’t make it in time. I took myself to one side and gave myself a good talking to, not acceptable, tardy. I tried to argue the elderly lady and bike shop stop slowed us up a bit but I wasn’t having any of it. Must try harder hehe

Anyhoo, thanks to the rest of the awesome foursome it was a good ride, just over 45 km, 365 m elevation and a moving time of 2.44.

Hot Day Early Start Cobblers Loop.

With a forecast temperature of 40c I decided to start the ride at 7.00 am and roughly worked out we should be finished by 11.00 am before it got too hot.

Surprise guest rocked up today JK. He has been threatening to turn up for a few years. Good to see him and the videos he took.

Chopped the first section out of the route we would normally take and headed straight down to Parafield Airport and on to Mawson Lakes pissing off a truck driver on the way.

Skirted Mawson Lakes and across Brien’s Road to Dry Creek. Single track up to the old prison magazine where they used to keep the explosives back in the day when prisoners broke rock and not fingernails on Playstation controllers.

We followed the Dry Creek trail past Wynn Vale and on to the Grove Way shopping centre for a well deserved coffee, cake and conversation.

After a good chinwag we headed to the top of Cobblers Creek. Taking the single track to the top of the Ruins Loop. I gave the instruction nobody die because there would be a lot of paperwork to do.

A good run down the rocky trail with no problems. Regrouped in the cool of the tunnel as the temp started to rise. On to the lower berms nice n easy. All going good then oh no fatty down!, no not me one of the group on a fat bike. Front end washout resulting in a nice graze on the forearm. Luckily the bike was ok hehe (so was the rider).

Pretty uneventful ride back to the golf club, the Phantom flasher managing to get between the 2 trees that leapt out and hit her last time hehe.

Landed back at bang on 11.00 am, luck or management, who knows. Just short of 42 km, 350 m elevation gain with an average temp of 24c.

Southern Outing.

A beautiful day for a ride and the usual slog up the Pipeline to OHH.

Cruisy ride up the Out The Back trail to the main trails at the top followed by a run around a few green trails.

Down the Dam Revamp led to the Upstart and as usual, the first switchback managed to stall me on the Yeti. Only managed it once in several rides, must stop looking at the front wheel and look up the track. Strange because 99% of the time my other bikes are not a problem it’s the 95kg gorilla riding it at fault.

We then headed out towards the Happy Valley reservoir with the intension to find a new coffee stop. Strong winds whipped up a dust storm towards the end of the reservoir wall, not nice.

Passing the coffee caravan, with a long cue waiting to be served, reinforced the decision to find an alternative. Coffee is good here; selection of food is not good (having been there as it opened and nothing but a choice of two cake slices) and service takes forever. Shame really as there is a captive customer base as it is the only outlet on the reservoir.

We came out of the reservoir at the bottom of Happy Valley Drive and rode up the cycle path and down to Aberfoyle Park. Rode up the Hub Drive, past the main shopping centre, and on to the next set of small shops. We stopped at the Aberfoyle Bakery and had very nice coffee, cakes and savories. New coffee stop found.

Headed back up Minkara Park, up through the Enchanted Forest and back inside the reservoir boundary track.

Across Glenthorne National Park and back to OHH.

Rode Over The Front trail back to the top of the pipeline. Hooned it down the pipeline, would be rude not to considering the hard ride up. Then back to Spotlight.

Ride just shy of 50km ride in a little over 3 hours pedaling.

Mawson Lakes Café Va Bene.

60 km 540 m climbing ride.

Rider rocked up lid less, good job he lives nearby and returned fully attired so off to a flyer.

As usual some nice single-track trails down Dry Creek and out to the Hope Valley reservoir. Heading clockwise around the reservoir and down to the Aqueduct trail.

Trail head closed due to an outbreak of Giant Scale on the pine trees and under quarantine to stop the spread. A fair number of trees have been felled and hopefully the outbreak is contained.

Lucky for us it wasn’t far to access the trail a bit further down the Torrens Linear trail. We soon came across my fallen tree nemesis. Managed to get over it this time but still wary of it. One of our most skilled riders nearly stacked it, front wheel came off but he managed to stay balanced and rode it out, legend.

After leaving the aqueduct trail we crossed a couple of bridges and up a steepish dirt track and headed down the Torrens. It was then we noticed we were one short, last seen at the bottom of the Aqueduct. He said if we got separated, as it was his first ride back in 2 year, he would see us at Va Bene.

We continued searching out the dirt tracks along the river heading for coffee stop. Va Bene wasn’t the intended destination after a few bad experiences but we went to meet the lost sheep.

As it turned out the sheep didn’t appear but the service and food were much improved this time and had a good feed and chat.

The return ride seemed hard going, maybe it wasn’t but it felt like it. Rumbling in the guts forced an emergency visit to the crapper. Luckily, we were near the Hope Valley reservoir and there is a loo there good job or there could have been a nasty accident hehe.

Still, a good ride today sweated buckets on the way back and tried to stay hydrated but I don’t think it worked. 3h 30m moving time and a lot more for refreshments, 17.5km/h average.

Massive cramp in one leg on the way home, leg still sore two days later I’m sure I’ll live.

Random Roaming.

Not a bad 35 km flat as a fart ride to start the year, coffee at the Water Shed, not that there was much water in the wet lands.

Barker Inlet wet lands a lovely shade of green, not the foliage, the water. Wouldn’t fancy my chances if I fell in and took a sip. Looks like the nuclear waste on the Simpsons.

Not the warmest of welcomes from one staff member at the Water Shed but it got friendlier as the food came out. Good food, good coffee and great company.

Did a bit of pissing on the boundaries, tracks not ridden for a while enjoying the sights of fly tipping all over the place. Most of it could be put in a bin, takes more effort to drive it to a location and dump it than bin it. If I had my way the perps would be in the stocks on Saturday arvo for people to throw rotten food at them, dirty bastards.

Rant over, back to the ride.

Couldn’t help noticing the tree clearing on P Wakefield Road and Globe Derby. More industrial units on the way, why oh why? Answer $$$$$$$

Ranting again doh!

Not much wildlife kicking about, haven’t seen a snake this summer. Oh there was a bunch of different kinds of birds having a party in the Baker Wet Lands on the rocks but that was it.

Quite an uneventful outing but still a good one. Temps started to get hotter just as we finished up in the car park. Cool bananas.

Trailing the Torrens

First things first a quick demo on how to slosh sealant around a tyre and fix a snapped quick link on an eeeb.

Heading up the Torrens on the left to loop back down the right-hand side hit a slight problem, “Path Closed” A huge section of path heading back towards the oval dug up and fenced off, no detour info and no path up to the road. What a pain in the arse and a fucking useless council (part 1)

Anyway, heading back towards the ocean we picked up some sweet single track just as the heavens opened. Piss wet through in no time but what can you do. Nice ride down to the ocean apart from a couple of bushes trying to strangle me, mental note, use the dropper hahaha.

Rain stopped.

A short trip up the coast for refreshments at Cibo, Henley Beach. Nice coffee with bacon, egg and cheese brioche on the side. Top tip, do not lean the bike on the roller blinds a strong gust billowed it out like a sail and over went the bike. 3d printed bar end plug damaged, no biggie.

Set off back down the opposite banks of the Torrens towards the city. All going well until, wait, what’s this? Fucking useless council (part 2) Trail under bridge fenced off and closed and yet again no detour info. Maybe, just maybe it will be possible to ride the Torrens without closed sections. As me old man used to say “he who lives in hope dies in despair”

Back on track again, and again a nice ride on the edge of the river. After the trails ran out on this side we headed over a bridge and rode the trails in reverse back to the Brickworks.

Great 35 km ride, not much elevation to speak of but not as flat as a fart.

Last ride of the year, thanks for all the support and I hope you all have a happy and prosperous new year.

Random Roaming Salisbury.

Random roaming Salisbury soon turned into random other places.

A brief encounter with a couple of riders who were regulars a few years ago. Nice people and nice to see them both fit n healthy out enjoying the trails. Although thinking back it is more than a few years back, time flies as they say.

Starting out from the Golf Club a quick admiration for the new water tank besides the pond. New things springing up everywhere in Salisbury.

Re tracing an ancient route past ye olde Red Rooter/bakery/café, now funeral home, and down to Mawson Lakes. A well redden route spoilt by bitumen, personal opinion.

Half a lap of the Lake at Mawsons I noticed someone out rowing and some kind of goals in the water. I bet the RC Yachts aren’t too happy about the new intruders/obstacles even though they are allowed to be there.

Down the Dry Creek trail for a loo stop, no sign of the Phantom Flasher and all doors firmly secured.

Followed dry creek and came to the Wynn Vale dam. A quick lap around and I had a voice in my head “good place for a group photo” Oh, yes, wait, that’s right it wasn’t in my head it was emanating from somewhere in the group. One of the group picked up a random toddler for a photo, while his dad took the snap, but I won’t name names hehe.

A conversation about scrunchies then took place with looks of puzzlement on a few faces. Once that was cleared up, up the hill to the shopping centre for coffee.

Coffee, cake and other refreshments at Zeea’s Café went down a treat. Smacked some shit for a while and headed off to the Creek of Cobblers, yes two rides in a row.

Pinballed down the improved Ruins trail but it was showing signs of degradation even after two weeks. Electric moto’s ?

Down the berm track and out at the bottom, having a brief discussion about the reason for the temp fencing in Cobblers Creek at the edge of Bridge Road. Confusion cleared up by a local resident and rider.

Pretty much usual track back to the Golf Club with no serious incidents. One minor incident for a seasoned rider, but hey, who hasn’t clipped a bar riding between two side by side trees?

All in all an excellent ride, 43 Km with 305 M elevation in 2.30 hours of ride time.

Luncheon.

Annual lunch, nothing to do with Xmas so it’s the not the Xmas lunch.

Third year at the Watershed Café Salisbury, could it be the last time at this venue? We will see how things go in 2025.

Such a nice location next to the wet lands, perfect weather for it too. Having been a regular at this café for many years I have seen many changes in service, food etc. Are things as good as they once were I’m not so sure.

What I am sure of is the bunch of people who turn up for this annual event sure make up for any deficiencies in the venue.

Great people and an awesome get together in a relaxing atmosphere. No rushing after a ride or rushing a coffee stop during a ride.

I would like to thank everyone who turned up for lunch, those who couldn’t make it for all the support they give for the social rides that are Northern Off Road Rider. Without you guys there wouldn’t be a ride group.

Thanks once again, have a good Xmas and all the best for 2025.

Mark

Cobbler/Cobbler Loop

Cobbler Loop.

Good weather for it today. We were joined today by a new face, riding an Eeeeb and not using the battery.

Nice steady ride up to Cobbler Creek to be greeted by the re appearance of the Fence.

Riding up the Babbler you can’t help notice how much the trail is eroded, huge ruts and loose rocks everywhere.

Jumped across the Grove Way, not literally, and headed towards the down section of the Ruins Loop. Met at the top by a huge roo jumping across the trail between two of the guys. One of the crew tried to fell a tree with his head but the tree won and put a nice dent in the skid lid. Trail changes smoothed out previously rocky bit but still had a few hairy moments hehe.

Continuing on the Ruins Loop and a nice climb up to the top, it would be perfect with a few more switchbacks instead of the last straight up section. My 2 cents worth.

Out of Cobblers and out to The Stables for an excellent coffee, eggs Beni and conversations.

Back down the creek and up to the top of Cobbler to take the Babbler down to Short n Sweet. Managed to make the turn this time near the bottom, third times a charm.

A quick run down the berms and jump track finished of the bike park.

Steady ride back to the golf club ending a most enjoyable ride. 45 km, 632 m elevation and just short of 3 hours moving time.

Mawson Lakes Café Va Bene.

60 km  540 m climbing ride.

Weather was good at the start and gradually got hotter and windier (wind sucks as well as blows).

A bit of a late start with a tyre problem, small hole next to the bead. A couple of thin plugs and some nice trimming sealed the tyre, without air loss, for the whole ride.

Some nice single track trails down Dry Creek and out to the Hope Valley reservoir. Heading clockwise around the reservoir and down to the Aqueduct trail.

Heading on the Aqueduct trail there are a few single tracks, one has a fallen tree across it. Somebody nailed a couple of bits of wood either side to ride over. However it is blind meaning you can’t see over it and has proved to be a mental problem for me and a few of our riders. Today one of our riders attempted to ride over it, lets call her the Phantom Flasher. She managed to get over the top but the front wheel came off the plank at the other side and took a tumble. Luckily no injury just dusty clothes. Well done on the attempt, next time I’m sure you will nail it.

We dropped down to the Torrens Track and picked up some single tracks on the way to our terminus, Café Va Bene.

We have used this coffee stop for a number of years but the service today was unusually slow which made the whole ride longer than planned. Coffee and food are great and worth a visit.

The return ride was a bit of a slog, head winds most of the way and increased temperatures.

Still a good 3 hour 30 ride today, maybe we should have started an hour earlier to keep away from the hottest part of the day but unforeseen circumstances played it’s part.

Paralowie Golf Club Random Roaming Salisbury.

40 km flat as a fart ride.

Fantastic weather for it.

Nice tootle around the Little Para, Mawson Lakes and The Paddocks.

Coffee and a full breakfast at the Watershed Café went down a treat.

No incidents or mishaps to report.

An awesome foursome ride with 2h 20m moving time and a bit more for refreshments.

Shepherds Hill Recreation Park.

33 km ride with 733 m of climbing.

Rainy start to the ride but cleared up once in Belair.

A two coffee stop outing, first at Banana Boogie Bakery after the long climb from the recreation park. Second at Escape Goat Café on the Birdie loop.

We encountered an Emu on the trail, first time I have been that close to one in the wild, big bugger.

Managed to pick up a pop rivet stalk in the rear tyre on Sheoak Road which required plugging. I must have pushed the end of the stalk right inside the tyre when plugging and retrieved it later in the day.

All in all a good ride with 2h 20m moving time and a bit more for refreshments.

Mawson Lakes Café Va Bene.

We set out heading down the usual trails today but I had another route in mind. A little further on Dry Creek trail than normal we turned off and headed over to North East Road. Winding up the side roads we eventually arrived at Anstey Hill Recreation Park.

Time for a short stop before the climb to the top. A quick conversation about which GPS unit is best for route following, Garmin, Wahoo or Hammerhead, I reckon the Hammerhead is better than my experiences with the Garmin but can’t comment on the quality of Wahoo. The only problem I have with the Hammerhead is when it rains. If I don’t put the “Rain Lock” on in the unit rain drops put points of interest on the screen. Screen lock turns the touch screen off and you have to use the side button.

From there we continued the “up” theme winding our way to the top. About half way up the winds picked up blowing dust across the trails. We thought we were going to be hit with the promised rain but it did not appear. Nice climb to the top but the legs didn’t agree, still, made it to the top.

Best thing about slogging up the hill is the ride down the other side.

Heading across the top of Ansteys parallel with Range Road then the downhill started.

A fairly shortish run down to Lower North East Road we crossed over and into the disused quarry. Down a couple of levels on the gravel roads brought us out to a fantastic view of the lake. It looks a lot better when the sun shines on it but still impressive on this over cast day.

Funny watching a guy lower down chasing his dog which was chasing either a feral sheep or goat. Luckily the dog didn’t catch its prey.

Interestingly at the last state election the Marshall government promised to make this quarry into a leisure complex called Crystal Lake. Swimming, diving, walking and mountain biking. However, they lost the election and the incoming government scrapped the project.

Winding our way down the gravel, taking care not to be caught out in the cross ruts and rock-strewn roads, we came across another lake a lot lower down. Interesting to see the difference between the rock faces between the two excavations.

A bit lower down you could tell we were closer to captivity when the scenery turned to a dump. Tyres and shit everywhere wtf. From what I can see it takes a great effort to get to the location to dump the stuff in the first place.

Anyhow past the dumping ground and on to the Torrens track. Over a couple of bridges and up a short, steep, dirt climb off camber at the top. Almost at the top and brain was telling me to keep left but the arms had other ideas steering right onto steeper bits until the legs gave out and stopped on the slope, sort of stuck but managed to hop off with a nice imprint of the pedal spikes on the shin slowly oozing blood hehe. Oh the joys of flat pedals.

We took the normal tracks n trail down the Torrens to Bene for a well-earned coffee.

I must say it was the fastest service we have had in all the years we have visited this venue. Coffee, eggs on toast and cake were awesome. Sat around chatting and relaxing had to be cut short due to a shopping delivery later in the day.

Onward and upwards along the O-Bahn to dry creek heading back to the start. Down on the creek side, straight on or up the hill for a nice ride down to Briens Road? Up it is, with a “no Mark” cry coming from the rear as we took the up track. Always a good ride down the other side.

Back to the start with no incidents and the end of a very enjoyable ride. 58 km ride with 650 m elevation gain.

Random roaming Salisbury.

Kind of hard to find an interesting random Salisbury ride without going over other routes but I think we got it mostly right.

No real plan for the ride so it was suck it n see trying to remember and eek out bits of trail from when I lived in the area.

Setting off in perfect weather and looping around as much off road as possible up to the train line at Edinburgh.

Up the train line until we came across the water running off from the air base. Last time I rode through the water there, admittedly a few years back, it fucked up my brakes. Riding around sounding like there are pigs strapped to the wheels is not my idea of fun. Managed to clean up the disks but the pads were rooted. A short walk on the tracks avoided it this time.

Chucking a left over the tracks on a road to nowhere, what a dump, a literal dump. Crap everywhere, we interrupted a dodgy looking guy in a 4x4 about to unload the old wheels and tyres from the back of his vehicle. He jumped back in the cab and ducked out of sight but we had seen him. Riding past he got a bit of abuse about illegal dumping but I imagine he dumped it with the rest once we left. Dirty bastards.

We set off to find the back track to the Burton wet lands but I missed the turn down the road where it was and ended up on Waterloo Corner Road instead. No biggie, just less dirt.

Up, down and around the single tracks of the wet lands, down to Paralowie for a tinkle stop. Tinkles done. down to the Watershed for coffee and a talking to. Well it wouldn’t be a ride without upsetting somebody.

Once again, service with a scowl from one of the staff, the same one that told us off for not walking the bikes around the walk ways. However, Resting Bitch Face should pay more attention to service, by the time the food came coffees either cold or consumed. Food delivered to the table, no cutlery, no salt n pepper, not a good look for a service industry when you have to serve yourself.

However, the food was good as always.

From there back up the train line, Parafield Gardens to Salisbury and the Golf Club.

Torrens Trekking. FMD.

What a beautiful day for a ride.

Loads of Spoke To A Bloke walkers about this morning so we headed up the river to begin.

We jumped across South Road and headed to our usual trail along the river, however, trail was closed off. “Path Closed” that’s it, bugger off and find your own way a common theme on the Torrens.

Back on track and up to the weir. Normally we would head further up the Torrens and loop back down the others side of the river but, yes, you have guessed it “foot path closed” So we turned around early, taking a lot of Ks off the ride, along the bottom of the golf course and up the edge of the train line.

Back towards the start and down the single track along the right-hand side of the river, nice and cool in the shade of the trees. Nice to see the water flowing again after recent rain up until then the lower river was bone dry.

Skipping across to the opposite bank riding all the single track available when, yup, you guessed it, “path closed”

We found a way back to the trail and set off again. A few K later and, for fuck’s sake “path closed” again.

Back on the trail again back of breakout creek by the jump tracks and down the sea front to our coffee stop Skala Artisan Bakery. Excellent coffee and cakes, I highly recommend this bakery.

Back up the coast, past the Spoke To a Bloke blokes, up over the bridge and down to the mouth of the river. What a stink coming from the foam in the water trapped between the ocean and the concrete river bed. As there wasn’t ant water in the concrete section we took a ride across to the other side, naughty. I’m sure they will fence off access in the near future.

Eventually on the right hand up stream single track and fuck me dead again. Nice crossing of Tapleys Hill Road, not, very busy and no central refuge.

Not long before another fuck me dead moment. Luckily the last one of the ride. Maybe one day the trails will be open both ways top to bottom but I’m not holding my breath.

So nice on the single track back to the Brick Works to finish the ride.

Usually 40km ish ride but shortened to 30km due to FMD moments. Moving time 1hr 50m.

PS the phantom flasher was told off by a dick on legs for using her bell. Bell ends everywhere, can’t win either way. FMD.

Hot Day Early Start Random Roaming.

Again, forecast 37c so 7.00 am start it is. With the intension of finishing by 11.00 am

It was going to be a flat as a fart 40 km ride but that felt boring so we decided, when I say we I mean I, to do a Cobblers loop in reverse.

7.15 am off we went heading for Carisbrooke Park. As we were passing through the zig zag restriction fence by the old folks’ home we were confronted by a voice from the bushes. An elderly lady emerged, bare foot needing to contact someone to come pick her up. The Phantom Flasher obliged and after a few phone calls she was sorted and we were off again.

Through Carisbrooke, missing the Park runners (not started yet) thank fuck.

Heading out of Carisbrooke and up to Cobblers Creek recreational park we rode the Ruins Loop out to the top and cruised down the Grove Way to Wynn Vale Dam to pick up Dry Creek.

Heading down the Dry Creek Trail you realise how much you actually ride up hill going the other way even though it seems pretty flat. Still managed to find a few single-track dirt tracks that the council haven’t ruined, yet on the way through. Must be a shortage of bitumen hehe.

Stopped off at a bike shop to pick up some supplies as we were passing. Some legit and some not so, we will leave it at that.

Continuing down Dry Creek we passed two police officers on e-mountain bikes, nice work if you can get it, coming out of the trail below Yatala Prison. Thought they were on to us but no, they rode on.

Nice trails along the left-hand side of the creek, Strava calls it Conjugal Visits, interesting. Then across the creek, up to the old magazine and down past the massive jumps to Bridge Road.

Starting to warm up a bit now and deadline looking shaky, where shall we stop for coffee? Bakery Boys, usually not open early but Google says it’s open at 7.00? La Vita and Water Shed both with slow service? Had to be the Boat Deck, even though it was busy we got fairly fast service. Coffee great, conversation great, some interesting scenery and meh vanilla slice.

Woofed it down anyway, and off up the drag of a ride, Parafield Airport, road up to Salisbury in an attempt to make the 11.00 dead line.

11.15, bugger, didn’t make it in time. I took myself to one side and gave myself a good talking to, not acceptable, tardy. I tried to argue the elderly lady and bike shop stop slowed us up a bit but I wasn’t having any of it. Must try harder hehe

Anyhoo, thanks to the rest of the awesome foursome it was a good ride, just over 45 km, 365 m elevation and a moving time of 2.44.

Hot Day Early Start Cobblers Loop.

With a forecast temperature of 40c I decided to start the ride at 7.00 am and roughly worked out we should be finished by 11.00 am before it got too hot.

Surprise guest rocked up today JK. He has been threatening to turn up for a few years. Good to see him and the videos he took.

Chopped the first section out of the route we would normally take and headed straight down to Parafield Airport and on to Mawson Lakes pissing off a truck driver on the way.

Skirted Mawson Lakes and across Brien’s Road to Dry Creek. Single track up to the old prison magazine where they used to keep the explosives back in the day when prisoners broke rock and not fingernails on Playstation controllers.

We followed the Dry Creek trail past Wynn Vale and on to the Grove Way shopping centre for a well deserved coffee, cake and conversation.

After a good chinwag we headed to the top of Cobblers Creek. Taking the single track to the top of the Ruins Loop. I gave the instruction nobody die because there would be a lot of paperwork to do.

A good run down the rocky trail with no problems. Regrouped in the cool of the tunnel as the temp started to rise. On to the lower berms nice n easy. All going good then oh no fatty down!, no not me one of the group on a fat bike. Front end washout resulting in a nice graze on the forearm. Luckily the bike was ok hehe (so was the rider).

Pretty uneventful ride back to the golf club, the Phantom flasher managing to get between the 2 trees that leapt out and hit her last time hehe.

Landed back at bang on 11.00 am, luck or management, who knows. Just short of 42 km, 350 m elevation gain with an average temp of 24c.

Southern Outing.

A beautiful day for a ride and the usual slog up the Pipeline to OHH.

Cruisy ride up the Out The Back trail to the main trails at the top followed by a run around a few green trails.

Down the Dam Revamp led to the Upstart and as usual, the first switchback managed to stall me on the Yeti. Only managed it once in several rides, must stop looking at the front wheel and look up the track. Strange because 99% of the time my other bikes are not a problem it’s the 95kg gorilla riding it at fault.

We then headed out towards the Happy Valley reservoir with the intension to find a new coffee stop. Strong winds whipped up a dust storm towards the end of the reservoir wall, not nice.

Passing the coffee caravan, with a long cue waiting to be served, reinforced the decision to find an alternative. Coffee is good here; selection of food is not good (having been there as it opened and nothing but a choice of two cake slices) and service takes forever. Shame really as there is a captive customer base as it is the only outlet on the reservoir.

We came out of the reservoir at the bottom of Happy Valley Drive and rode up the cycle path and down to Aberfoyle Park. Rode up the Hub Drive, past the main shopping centre, and on to the next set of small shops. We stopped at the Aberfoyle Bakery and had very nice coffee, cakes and savories. New coffee stop found.

Headed back up Minkara Park, up through the Enchanted Forest and back inside the reservoir boundary track.

Across Glenthorne National Park and back to OHH.

Rode Over The Front trail back to the top of the pipeline. Hooned it down the pipeline, would be rude not to considering the hard ride up. Then back to Spotlight.

Ride just shy of 50km ride in a little over 3 hours pedaling.

Mawson Lakes Café Va Bene.

60 km 540 m climbing ride.

Rider rocked up lid less, good job he lives nearby and returned fully attired so off to a flyer.

As usual some nice single-track trails down Dry Creek and out to the Hope Valley reservoir. Heading clockwise around the reservoir and down to the Aqueduct trail.

Trail head closed due to an outbreak of Giant Scale on the pine trees and under quarantine to stop the spread. A fair number of trees have been felled and hopefully the outbreak is contained.

Lucky for us it wasn’t far to access the trail a bit further down the Torrens Linear trail. We soon came across my fallen tree nemesis. Managed to get over it this time but still wary of it. One of our most skilled riders nearly stacked it, front wheel came off but he managed to stay balanced and rode it out, legend.

After leaving the aqueduct trail we crossed a couple of bridges and up a steepish dirt track and headed down the Torrens. It was then we noticed we were one short, last seen at the bottom of the Aqueduct. He said if we got separated, as it was his first ride back in 2 year, he would see us at Va Bene.

We continued searching out the dirt tracks along the river heading for coffee stop. Va Bene wasn’t the intended destination after a few bad experiences but we went to meet the lost sheep.

As it turned out the sheep didn’t appear but the service and food were much improved this time and had a good feed and chat.

The return ride seemed hard going, maybe it wasn’t but it felt like it. Rumbling in the guts forced an emergency visit to the crapper. Luckily, we were near the Hope Valley reservoir and there is a loo there good job or there could have been a nasty accident hehe.

Still, a good ride today sweated buckets on the way back and tried to stay hydrated but I don’t think it worked. 3h 30m moving time and a lot more for refreshments, 17.5km/h average.

Massive cramp in one leg on the way home, leg still sore two days later I’m sure I’ll live.

Random Roaming.

Not a bad 35 km flat as a fart ride to start the year, coffee at the Water Shed, not that there was much water in the wet lands.

Barker Inlet wet lands a lovely shade of green, not the foliage, the water. Wouldn’t fancy my chances if I fell in and took a sip. Looks like the nuclear waste on the Simpsons.

Not the warmest of welcomes from one staff member at the Water Shed but it got friendlier as the food came out. Good food, good coffee and great company.

Did a bit of pissing on the boundaries, tracks not ridden for a while enjoying the sights of fly tipping all over the place. Most of it could be put in a bin, takes more effort to drive it to a location and dump it than bin it. If I had my way the perps would be in the stocks on Saturday arvo for people to throw rotten food at them, dirty bastards.

Rant over, back to the ride.

Couldn’t help noticing the tree clearing on P Wakefield Road and Globe Derby. More industrial units on the way, why oh why? Answer $$$$$$$

Ranting again doh!

Not much wildlife kicking about, haven’t seen a snake this summer. Oh there was a bunch of different kinds of birds having a party in the Baker Wet Lands on the rocks but that was it.

Quite an uneventful outing but still a good one. Temps started to get hotter just as we finished up in the car park. Cool bananas.

Trailing the Torrens

First things first a quick demo on how to slosh sealant around a tyre and fix a snapped quick link on an eeeb.

Heading up the Torrens on the left to loop back down the right-hand side hit a slight problem, “Path Closed” A huge section of path heading back towards the oval dug up and fenced off, no detour info and no path up to the road. What a pain in the arse and a fucking useless council (part 1)

Anyway, heading back towards the ocean we picked up some sweet single track just as the heavens opened. Piss wet through in no time but what can you do. Nice ride down to the ocean apart from a couple of bushes trying to strangle me, mental note, use the dropper hahaha.

Rain stopped.

A short trip up the coast for refreshments at Cibo, Henley Beach. Nice coffee with bacon, egg and cheese brioche on the side. Top tip, do not lean the bike on the roller blinds a strong gust billowed it out like a sail and over went the bike. 3d printed bar end plug damaged, no biggie.

Set off back down the opposite banks of the Torrens towards the city. All going well until, wait, what’s this? Fucking useless council (part 2) Trail under bridge fenced off and closed and yet again no detour info. Maybe, just maybe it will be possible to ride the Torrens without closed sections. As me old man used to say “he who lives in hope dies in despair”

Back on track again, and again a nice ride on the edge of the river. After the trails ran out on this side we headed over a bridge and rode the trails in reverse back to the Brickworks.

Great 35 km ride, not much elevation to speak of but not as flat as a fart.

Last ride of the year, thanks for all the support and I hope you all have a happy and prosperous new year.

Random Roaming Salisbury.

Random roaming Salisbury soon turned into random other places.

A brief encounter with a couple of riders who were regulars a few years ago. Nice people and nice to see them both fit n healthy out enjoying the trails. Although thinking back it is more than a few years back, time flies as they say.

Starting out from the Golf Club a quick admiration for the new water tank besides the pond. New things springing up everywhere in Salisbury.

Re tracing an ancient route past ye olde Red Rooter/bakery/café, now funeral home, and down to Mawson Lakes. A well redden route spoilt by bitumen, personal opinion.

Half a lap of the Lake at Mawsons I noticed someone out rowing and some kind of goals in the water. I bet the RC Yachts aren’t too happy about the new intruders/obstacles even though they are allowed to be there.

Down the Dry Creek trail for a loo stop, no sign of the Phantom Flasher and all doors firmly secured.

Followed dry creek and came to the Wynn Vale dam. A quick lap around and I had a voice in my head “good place for a group photo” Oh, yes, wait, that’s right it wasn’t in my head it was emanating from somewhere in the group. One of the group picked up a random toddler for a photo, while his dad took the snap, but I won’t name names hehe.

A conversation about scrunchies then took place with looks of puzzlement on a few faces. Once that was cleared up, up the hill to the shopping centre for coffee.

Coffee, cake and other refreshments at Zeea’s Café went down a treat. Smacked some shit for a while and headed off to the Creek of Cobblers, yes two rides in a row.

Pinballed down the improved Ruins trail but it was showing signs of degradation even after two weeks. Electric moto’s ?

Down the berm track and out at the bottom, having a brief discussion about the reason for the temp fencing in Cobblers Creek at the edge of Bridge Road. Confusion cleared up by a local resident and rider.

Pretty much usual track back to the Golf Club with no serious incidents. One minor incident for a seasoned rider, but hey, who hasn’t clipped a bar riding between two side by side trees?

All in all an excellent ride, 43 Km with 305 M elevation in 2.30 hours of ride time.

Luncheon.

Annual lunch, nothing to do with Xmas so it’s the not the Xmas lunch.

Third year at the Watershed Café Salisbury, could it be the last time at this venue? We will see how things go in 2025.

Such a nice location next to the wet lands, perfect weather for it too. Having been a regular at this café for many years I have seen many changes in service, food etc. Are things as good as they once were I’m not so sure.

What I am sure of is the bunch of people who turn up for this annual event sure make up for any deficiencies in the venue.

Great people and an awesome get together in a relaxing atmosphere. No rushing after a ride or rushing a coffee stop during a ride.

I would like to thank everyone who turned up for lunch, those who couldn’t make it for all the support they give for the social rides that are Northern Off Road Rider. Without you guys there wouldn’t be a ride group.

Thanks once again, have a good Xmas and all the best for 2025.

Mark

Cobbler/Cobbler Loop

Cobbler Loop.

Good weather for it today. We were joined today by a new face, riding an Eeeeb and not using the battery.

Nice steady ride up to Cobbler Creek to be greeted by the re appearance of the Fence.

Riding up the Babbler you can’t help notice how much the trail is eroded, huge ruts and loose rocks everywhere.

Jumped across the Grove Way, not literally, and headed towards the down section of the Ruins Loop. Met at the top by a huge roo jumping across the trail between two of the guys. One of the crew tried to fell a tree with his head but the tree won and put a nice dent in the skid lid. Trail changes smoothed out previously rocky bit but still had a few hairy moments hehe.

Continuing on the Ruins Loop and a nice climb up to the top, it would be perfect with a few more switchbacks instead of the last straight up section. My 2 cents worth.

Out of Cobblers and out to The Stables for an excellent coffee, eggs Beni and conversations.

Back down the creek and up to the top of Cobbler to take the Babbler down to Short n Sweet. Managed to make the turn this time near the bottom, third times a charm.

A quick run down the berms and jump track finished of the bike park.

Steady ride back to the golf club ending a most enjoyable ride. 45 km, 632 m elevation and just short of 3 hours moving time.

Mawson Lakes Café Va Bene.

60 km  540 m climbing ride.

Weather was good at the start and gradually got hotter and windier (wind sucks as well as blows).

A bit of a late start with a tyre problem, small hole next to the bead. A couple of thin plugs and some nice trimming sealed the tyre, without air loss, for the whole ride.

Some nice single track trails down Dry Creek and out to the Hope Valley reservoir. Heading clockwise around the reservoir and down to the Aqueduct trail.

Heading on the Aqueduct trail there are a few single tracks, one has a fallen tree across it. Somebody nailed a couple of bits of wood either side to ride over. However it is blind meaning you can’t see over it and has proved to be a mental problem for me and a few of our riders. Today one of our riders attempted to ride over it, lets call her the Phantom Flasher. She managed to get over the top but the front wheel came off the plank at the other side and took a tumble. Luckily no injury just dusty clothes. Well done on the attempt, next time I’m sure you will nail it.

We dropped down to the Torrens Track and picked up some single tracks on the way to our terminus, Café Va Bene.

We have used this coffee stop for a number of years but the service today was unusually slow which made the whole ride longer than planned. Coffee and food are great and worth a visit.

The return ride was a bit of a slog, head winds most of the way and increased temperatures.

Still a good 3 hour 30 ride today, maybe we should have started an hour earlier to keep away from the hottest part of the day but unforeseen circumstances played it’s part.

Paralowie Golf Club Random Roaming Salisbury.

40 km flat as a fart ride.

Fantastic weather for it.

Nice tootle around the Little Para, Mawson Lakes and The Paddocks.

Coffee and a full breakfast at the Watershed Café went down a treat.

No incidents or mishaps to report.

An awesome foursome ride with 2h 20m moving time and a bit more for refreshments.

Shepherds Hill Recreation Park.

33 km ride with 733 m of climbing.

Rainy start to the ride but cleared up once in Belair.

A two coffee stop outing, first at Banana Boogie Bakery after the long climb from the recreation park. Second at Escape Goat Café on the Birdie loop.

We encountered an Emu on the trail, first time I have been that close to one in the wild, big bugger.

Managed to pick up a pop rivet stalk in the rear tyre on Sheoak Road which required plugging. I must have pushed the end of the stalk right inside the tyre when plugging and retrieved it later in the day.

All in all a good ride with 2h 20m moving time and a bit more for refreshments.

Mawson Lakes Café Va Bene.

We set out heading down the usual trails today but I had another route in mind. A little further on Dry Creek trail than normal we turned off and headed over North East Road. Winding up the side roads we eventually arrived at Anstey Hill Recreation Park.

Time for a short stop before the climb to the top. A quick conversation about which GPS unit is best for route following, Garmin, Wahoo or Hammerhead, I reckon the Hammerhead is better than my experiences with the Garmin but can’t comment on the quality of Wahoo. The only problem I have with the Hammerhead is when it rains. If I don’t put the “Rain Lock” on in the unit rain drops put points of interest on the screen. Screen lock turns the touch screen off and you have to use the side button.

From there we continued the “up” theme winding our way to the top. About half way up the winds picked up blowing dust across the trails. We thought we were going to be hit with the promised rain but it did not appear. Nice climb to the top but the legs didn’t agree, still, made it to the top.

Best thing about slogging up the hill is the ride down the other side.

Heading across the top of Ansteys parallel with Range Road then the downhill started.

A fairly shortish run down to Lower North East Road we crossed over and into the disused quarry. Down a couple of levels on the gravel roads brought us out to a fantastic view of the lake. It looks a lot better when the sun shines on it but still impressive on this over cast day.

Funny watching a guy lower down chasing his dog which was chasing either a feral sheep or goat. Luckily the dog didn’t catch its prey.

Interestingly at the last state election the Marshall government promised to make this quarry into a leisure complex called Crystal Lake. Swimming, diving, walking and mountain biking. However, they lost the election and the incoming government scrapped the project.

Winding our way down the gravel, taking care not to be caught out in the cross ruts and rock-strewn roads, we came across another lake a lot lower down. Interesting to see the difference between the rock faces between the two excavations.

A bit lower down you could tell we were closer to captivity when the scenery turned to a dump. Tyres and shit everywhere wtf. From what I can see it takes a great effort to get to the location to dump the stuff in the first place.

Anyhow past the dumping ground and on to the Torrens track. Over a couple of bridges and up a short, steep, dirt climb off camber at the top. Almost at the top and brain was telling me to keep left but the arms had other ideas steering right onto steeper bits until the legs gave out and stopped on the slope, sort of stuck but managed to hop off with a nice imprint of the pedal spikes on the shin slowly oozing blood hehe. Oh the joys of flat pedals.

We took the normal tracks n trail down the Torrens to Bene for a well-earned coffee.

I must say it was the fastest service we have had in all the years we have visited this venue. Coffee, eggs on toast and cake were awesome. Sat around chatting and relaxing had to be cut short due to a shopping delivery later in the day.

Onward and upwards along the O-Bahn to dry creek heading back to the start. Down on the creek side, straight on or up the hill for a nice ride down to Briens Road? Up it is, with a “no Mark” cry coming from the rear as we took the up track. Always a good ride down the other side.

Back to the start with no incidents and the end of a very enjoyable ride. 58 km ride with 650 m elevation gain.

Random roaming Salisbury.

Kind of hard to find an interesting random Salisbury ride without going over other routes but I think we got it mostly right.

No real plan for the ride so it was suck it n see trying to remember and eek out bits of trail from when I lived in the area.

Setting off in perfect weather and looping around as much off road as possible up to the train line at Edinburgh.

Up the train line until we came across the water running off from the air base. Last time I rode through the water there, admittedly a few years back, it fucked up my brakes. Riding around sounding like there are pigs strapped to the wheels is not my idea of fun. Managed to clean up the disks but the pads were rooted. A short walk on the tracks avoided it this time.

Chucking a left over the tracks on a road to nowhere, what a dump, a literal dump. Crap everywhere, we interrupted a dodgy looking guy in a 4x4 about to unload the old wheels and tyres from the back of his vehicle. He jumped back in the cab and ducked out of sight but we had seen him. Riding past he got a bit of abuse about illegal dumping but I imagine he dumped it with the rest once we left. Dirty bastards.

We set off to find the back track to the Burton wet lands but I missed the turn down the road where it was and ended up on Waterloo Corner Road instead. No biggie, just less dirt.

Up, down and around the single tracks of the wet lands, down to Paralowie for a tinkle stop. Tinkles done. down to the Watershed for coffee and a talking to. Well it wouldn’t be a ride without upsetting somebody.

Once again, service with a scowl from one of the staff, the same one that told us off for not walking the bikes around the walk ways. However, Resting Bitch Face should pay more attention to service, by the time the food came coffees either cold or consumed. Food delivered to the table, no cutlery, no salt n pepper, not a good look for a service industry when you have to serve yourself.

However, the food was good as always.

From there back up the train line, Parafield Gardens to Salisbury and the Golf Club.

Torrens Trekking. FMD.

What a beautiful day for a ride.

Loads of Spoke To A Bloke walkers about this morning so we headed up the river to begin.

We jumped across South Road and headed to our usual trail along the river, however, trail was closed off. “Path Closed” that’s it, bugger off and find your own way a common theme on the Torrens.

Back on track and up to the weir. Normally we would head further up the Torrens and loop back down the others side of the river but, yes, you have guessed it “foot path closed” So we turned around early, taking a lot of Ks off the ride, along the bottom of the golf course and up the edge of the train line.

Back towards the start and down the single track along the right-hand side of the river, nice and cool in the shade of the trees. Nice to see the water flowing again after recent rain up until then the lower river was bone dry.

Skipping across to the opposite bank riding all the single track available when, yup, you guessed it, “path closed”

We found a way back to the trail and set off again. A few K later and, for fuck’s sake “path closed” again.

Back on the trail again back of breakout creek by the jump tracks and down the sea front to our coffee stop Skala Artisan Bakery. Excellent coffee and cakes, I highly recommend this bakery.

Back up the coast, past the Spoke To a Bloke blokes, up over the bridge and down to the mouth of the river. What a stink coming from the foam in the water trapped between the ocean and the concrete river bed. As there wasn’t ant water in the concrete section we took a ride across to the other side, naughty. I’m sure they will fence off access in the near future.

Eventually on the right hand up stream single track and fuck me dead again. Nice crossing of Tapleys Hill Road, not, very busy and no central refuge.

Not long before another fuck me dead moment. Luckily the last one of the ride. Maybe one day the trails will be open both ways top to bottom but I’m not holding my breath.

So nice on the single track back to the Brick Works to finish the ride.

Usually 40km ish ride but shortened to 30km due to FMD moments. Moving time 1hr 50m.

PS the phantom flasher was told off by a dick on legs for using her bell. Bell ends everywhere, can’t win either way. FMD.

Hot Day Early Start Random Roaming.

Again, forecast 37c so 7.00 am start it is. With the intension of finishing by 11.00 am

It was going to be a flat as a fart 40 km ride but that felt boring so we decided, when I say we I mean I, to do a Cobblers loop in reverse.

7.15 am off we went heading for Carisbrooke Park. As we were passing through the zig zag restriction fence by the old folks’ home we were confronted by a voice from the bushes. An elderly lady emerged, bare foot needing to contact someone to come pick her up. The Phantom Flasher obliged and after a few phone calls she was sorted and we were off again.

Through Carisbrooke, missing the Park runners (not started yet) thank fuck.

Heading out of Carisbrooke and up to Cobblers Creek recreational park we rode the Ruins Loop out to the top and cruised down the Grove Way to Wynn Vale Dam to pick up Dry Creek.

Heading down the Dry Creek Trail you realise how much you actually ride up hill going the other way even though it seems pretty flat. Still managed to find a few single-track dirt tracks that the council haven’t ruined, yet on the way through. Must be a shortage of bitumen hehe.

Stopped off at a bike shop to pick up some supplies as we were passing. Some legit and some not so, we will leave it at that.

Continuing down Dry Creek we passed two police officers on e-mountain bikes, nice work if you can get it, coming out of the trail below Yatala Prison. Thought they were on to us but no, they rode on.

Nice trails along the left-hand side of the creek, Strava calls it Conjugal Visits, interesting. Then across the creek, up to the old magazine and down past the massive jumps to Bridge Road.

Starting to warm up a bit now and deadline looking shaky, where shall we stop for coffee? Bakery Boys, usually not open early but Google says it’s open at 7.00? La Vita and Water Shed both with slow service? Had to be the Boat Deck, even though it was busy we got fairly fast service. Coffee great, conversation great, some interesting scenery and meh vanilla slice.

Woofed it down anyway, and off up the drag of a ride, Parafield Airport, road up to Salisbury in an attempt to make the 11.00 dead line.

11.15, bugger, didn’t make it in time. I took myself to one side and gave myself a good talking to, not acceptable, tardy. I tried to argue the elderly lady and bike shop stop slowed us up a bit but I wasn’t having any of it. Must try harder hehe

Anyhoo, thanks to the rest of the awesome foursome it was a good ride, just over 45 km, 365 m elevation and a moving time of 2.44.

Hot Day Early Start Cobblers Loop.

With a forecast temperature of 40c I decided to start the ride at 7.00 am and roughly worked out we should be finished by 11.00 am before it got too hot.

Surprise guest rocked up today JK. He has been threatening to turn up for a few years. Good to see him and the videos he took.

Chopped the first section out of the route we would normally take and headed straight down to Parafield Airport and on to Mawson Lakes pissing off a truck driver on the way.

Skirted Mawson Lakes and across Brien’s Road to Dry Creek. Single track up to the old prison magazine where they used to keep the explosives back in the day when prisoners broke rock and not fingernails on Playstation controllers.

We followed the Dry Creek trail past Wynn Vale and on to the Grove Way shopping centre for a well deserved coffee, cake and conversation.

After a good chinwag we headed to the top of Cobblers Creek. Taking the single track to the top of the Ruins Loop. I gave the instruction nobody die because there would be a lot of paperwork to do.

A good run down the rocky trail with no problems. Regrouped in the cool of the tunnel as the temp started to rise. On to the lower berms nice n easy. All going good then oh no fatty down!, no not me one of the group on a fat bike. Front end washout resulting in a nice graze on the forearm. Luckily the bike was ok hehe (so was the rider).

Pretty uneventful ride back to the golf club, the Phantom flasher managing to get between the 2 trees that leapt out and hit her last time hehe.

Landed back at bang on 11.00 am, luck or management, who knows. Just short of 42 km, 350 m elevation gain with an average temp of 24c.

Southern Outing.

A beautiful day for a ride and the usual slog up the Pipeline to OHH.

Cruisy ride up the Out The Back trail to the main trails at the top followed by a run around a few green trails.

Down the Dam Revamp led to the Upstart and as usual, the first switchback managed to stall me on the Yeti. Only managed it once in several rides, must stop looking at the front wheel and look up the track. Strange because 99% of the time my other bikes are not a problem it’s the 95kg gorilla riding it at fault.

We then headed out towards the Happy Valley reservoir with the intension to find a new coffee stop. Strong winds whipped up a dust storm towards the end of the reservoir wall, not nice.

Passing the coffee caravan, with a long cue waiting to be served, reinforced the decision to find an alternative. Coffee is good here; selection of food is not good (having been there as it opened and nothing but a choice of two cake slices) and service takes forever. Shame really as there is a captive customer base as it is the only outlet on the reservoir.

We came out of the reservoir at the bottom of Happy Valley Drive and rode up the cycle path and down to Aberfoyle Park. Rode up the Hub Drive, past the main shopping centre, and on to the next set of small shops. We stopped at the Aberfoyle Bakery and had very nice coffee, cakes and savories. New coffee stop found.

Headed back up Minkara Park, up through the Enchanted Forest and back inside the reservoir boundary track.

Across Glenthorne National Park and back to OHH.

Rode Over The Front trail back to the top of the pipeline. Hooned it down the pipeline, would be rude not to considering the hard ride up. Then back to Spotlight.

Ride just shy of 50km ride in a little over 3 hours pedaling.

Mawson Lakes Café Va Bene.

60 km 540 m climbing ride.

Rider rocked up lid less, good job he lives nearby and returned fully attired so off to a flyer.

As usual some nice single-track trails down Dry Creek and out to the Hope Valley reservoir. Heading clockwise around the reservoir and down to the Aqueduct trail.

Trail head closed due to an outbreak of Giant Scale on the pine trees and under quarantine to stop the spread. A fair number of trees have been felled and hopefully the outbreak is contained.

Lucky for us it wasn’t far to access the trail a bit further down the Torrens Linear trail. We soon came across my fallen tree nemesis. Managed to get over it this time but still wary of it. One of our most skilled riders nearly stacked it, front wheel came off but he managed to stay balanced and rode it out, legend.

After leaving the aqueduct trail we crossed a couple of bridges and up a steepish dirt track and headed down the Torrens. It was then we noticed we were one short, last seen at the bottom of the Aqueduct. He said if we got separated, as it was his first ride back in 2 year, he would see us at Va Bene.

We continued searching out the dirt tracks along the river heading for coffee stop. Va Bene wasn’t the intended destination after a few bad experiences but we went to meet the lost sheep.

As it turned out the sheep didn’t appear but the service and food were much improved this time and had a good feed and chat.

The return ride seemed hard going, maybe it wasn’t but it felt like it. Rumbling in the guts forced an emergency visit to the crapper. Luckily, we were near the Hope Valley reservoir and there is a loo there good job or there could have been a nasty accident hehe.

Still, a good ride today sweated buckets on the way back and tried to stay hydrated but I don’t think it worked. 3h 30m moving time and a lot more for refreshments, 17.5km/h average.

Massive cramp in one leg on the way home, leg still sore two days later I’m sure I’ll live.

Random Roaming.

Not a bad 35 km flat as a fart ride to start the year, coffee at the Water Shed, not that there was much water in the wet lands.

Barker Inlet wet lands a lovely shade of green, not the foliage, the water. Wouldn’t fancy my chances if I fell in and took a sip. Looks like the nuclear waste on the Simpsons.

Not the warmest of welcomes from one staff member at the Water Shed but it got friendlier as the food came out. Good food, good coffee and great company.

Did a bit of pissing on the boundaries, tracks not ridden for a while enjoying the sights of fly tipping all over the place. Most of it could be put in a bin, takes more effort to drive it to a location and dump it than bin it. If I had my way the perps would be in the stocks on Saturday arvo for people to throw rotten food at them, dirty bastards.

Rant over, back to the ride.

Couldn’t help noticing the tree clearing on P Wakefield Road and Globe Derby. More industrial units on the way, why oh why? Answer $$$$$$$

Ranting again doh!

Not much wildlife kicking about, haven’t seen a snake this summer. Oh there was a bunch of different kinds of birds having a party in the Baker Wet Lands on the rocks but that was it.

Quite an uneventful outing but still a good one. Temps started to get hotter just as we finished up in the car park. Cool bananas.

Trailing the Torrens

First things first a quick demo on how to slosh sealant around a tyre and fix a snapped quick link on an eeeb.

Heading up the Torrens on the left to loop back down the right-hand side hit a slight problem, “Path Closed” A huge section of path heading back towards the oval dug up and fenced off, no detour info and no path up to the road. What a pain in the arse and a fucking useless council (part 1)

Anyway, heading back towards the ocean we picked up some sweet single track just as the heavens opened. Piss wet through in no time but what can you do. Nice ride down to the ocean apart from a couple of bushes trying to strangle me, mental note, use the dropper hahaha.

Rain stopped.

A short trip up the coast for refreshments at Cibo, Henley Beach. Nice coffee with bacon, egg and cheese brioche on the side. Top tip, do not lean the bike on the roller blinds a strong gust billowed it out like a sail and over went the bike. 3d printed bar end plug damaged, no biggie.

Set off back down the opposite banks of the Torrens towards the city. All going well until, wait, what’s this? Fucking useless council (part 2) Trail under bridge fenced off and closed and yet again no detour info. Maybe, just maybe it will be possible to ride the Torrens without closed sections. As me old man used to say “he who lives in hope dies in despair”

Back on track again, and again a nice ride on the edge of the river. After the trails ran out on this side we headed over a bridge and rode the trails in reverse back to the Brickworks.

Great 35 km ride, not much elevation to speak of but not as flat as a fart.

Last ride of the year, thanks for all the support and I hope you all have a happy and prosperous new year.

Random Roaming Salisbury.

Random roaming Salisbury soon turned into random other places.

A brief encounter with a couple of riders who were regulars a few years ago. Nice people and nice to see them both fit n healthy out enjoying the trails. Although thinking back it is more than a few years back, time flies as they say.

Starting out from the Golf Club a quick admiration for the new water tank besides the pond. New things springing up everywhere in Salisbury.

Re tracing an ancient route past ye olde Red Rooter/bakery/café, now funeral home, and down to Mawson Lakes. A well redden route spoilt by bitumen, personal opinion.

Half a lap of the Lake at Mawsons I noticed someone out rowing and some kind of goals in the water. I bet the RC Yachts aren’t too happy about the new intruders/obstacles even though they are allowed to be there.

Down the Dry Creek trail for a loo stop, no sign of the Phantom Flasher and all doors firmly secured.

Followed dry creek and came to the Wynn Vale dam. A quick lap around and I had a voice in my head “good place for a group photo” Oh, yes, wait, that’s right it wasn’t in my head it was emanating from somewhere in the group. One of the group picked up a random toddler for a photo, while his dad took the snap, but I won’t name names hehe.

A conversation about scrunchies then took place with looks of puzzlement on a few faces. Once that was cleared up, up the hill to the shopping centre for coffee.

Coffee, cake and other refreshments at Zeea’s Café went down a treat. Smacked some shit for a while and headed off to the Creek of Cobblers, yes two rides in a row.

Pinballed down the improved Ruins trail but it was showing signs of degradation even after two weeks. Electric moto’s ?

Down the berm track and out at the bottom, having a brief discussion about the reason for the temp fencing in Cobblers Creek at the edge of Bridge Road. Confusion cleared up by a local resident and rider.

Pretty much usual track back to the Golf Club with no serious incidents. One minor incident for a seasoned rider, but hey, who hasn’t clipped a bar riding between two side by side trees?

All in all an excellent ride, 43 Km with 305 M elevation in 2.30 hours of ride time.

Luncheon.

Annual lunch, nothing to do with Xmas so it’s the not the Xmas lunch.

Third year at the Watershed Café Salisbury, could it be the last time at this venue? We will see how things go in 2025.

Such a nice location next to the wet lands, perfect weather for it too. Having been a regular at this café for many years I have seen many changes in service, food etc. Are things as good as they once were I’m not so sure.

What I am sure of is the bunch of people who turn up for this annual event sure make up for any deficiencies in the venue.

Great people and an awesome get together in a relaxing atmosphere. No rushing after a ride or rushing a coffee stop during a ride.

I would like to thank everyone who turned up for lunch, those who couldn’t make it for all the support they give for the social rides that are Northern Off Road Rider. Without you guys there wouldn’t be a ride group.

Thanks once again, have a good Xmas and all the best for 2025.

Mark

Cobbler/Cobbler Loop

Cobbler Loop.

Good weather for it today. We were joined today by a new face, riding an Eeeeb and not using the battery.

Nice steady ride up to Cobbler Creek to be greeted by the re appearance of the Fence.

Riding up the Babbler you can’t help notice how much the trail is eroded, huge ruts and loose rocks everywhere.

Jumped across the Grove Way, not literally, and headed towards the down section of the Ruins Loop. Met at the top by a huge roo jumping across the trail between two of the guys. One of the crew tried to fell a tree with his head but the tree won and put a nice dent in the skid lid. Trail changes smoothed out previously rocky bit but still had a few hairy moments hehe.

Continuing on the Ruins Loop and a nice climb up to the top, it would be perfect with a few more switchbacks instead of the last straight up section. My 2 cents worth.

Out of Cobblers and out to The Stables for an excellent coffee, eggs Beni and conversations.

Back down the creek and up to the top of Cobbler to take the Babbler down to Short n Sweet. Managed to make the turn this time near the bottom, third times a charm.

A quick run down the berms and jump track finished of the bike park.

Steady ride back to the golf club ending a most enjoyable ride. 45 km, 632 m elevation and just short of 3 hours moving time.

Mawson Lakes Café Va Bene.

60 km  540 m climbing ride.

Weather was good at the start and gradually got hotter and windier (wind sucks as well as blows).

A bit of a late start with a tyre problem, small hole next to the bead. A couple of thin plugs and some nice trimming sealed the tyre, without air loss, for the whole ride.

Some nice single track trails down Dry Creek and out to the Hope Valley reservoir. Heading clockwise around the reservoir and down to the Aqueduct trail.

Heading on the Aqueduct trail there are a few single tracks, one has a fallen tree across it. Somebody nailed a couple of bits of wood either side to ride over. However it is blind meaning you can’t see over it and has proved to be a mental problem for me and a few of our riders. Today one of our riders attempted to ride over it, lets call her the Phantom Flasher. She managed to get over the top but the front wheel came off the plank at the other side and took a tumble. Luckily no injury just dusty clothes. Well done on the attempt, next time I’m sure you will nail it.

We dropped down to the Torrens Track and picked up some single tracks on the way to our terminus, Café Va Bene.

We have used this coffee stop for a number of years but the service today was unusually slow which made the whole ride longer than planned. Coffee and food are great and worth a visit.

The return ride was a bit of a slog, head winds most of the way and increased temperatures.

Still a good 3 hour 30 ride today, maybe we should have started an hour earlier to keep away from the hottest part of the day but unforeseen circumstances played it’s part.

Paralowie Golf Club Random Roaming Salisbury.

40 km flat as a fart ride.

Fantastic weather for it.

Nice tootle around the Little Para, Mawson Lakes and The Paddocks.

Coffee and a full breakfast at the Watershed Café went down a treat.

No incidents or mishaps to report.

An awesome foursome ride with 2h 20m moving time and a bit more for refreshments.

Shepherds Hill Recreation Park.

33 km ride with 733 m of climbing.

Rainy start to the ride but cleared up once in Belair.

A two coffee stop outing, first at Banana Boogie Bakery after the long climb from the recreation park. Second at Escape Goat Café on the Birdie loop.

We encountered an Emu on the trail, first time I have been that close to one in the wild, big bugger.

Managed to pick up a pop rivet stalk in the rear tyre on Sheoak Road which required plugging. I must have pushed the end of the stalk right inside the tyre when plugging and retrieved it later in the day.

All in all a good ride with 2h 20m moving time and a bit more for refreshments.