Mt Gambier R2 Hartwell 2008

Report 1

PHEW!!!!!

3 races in 4 weeks. Very busy!!!!

Interclub meeting 4 weeks ago was a disorganized mess. But despite a blown radiator hose we still managed 1st place.

Then the big one! Hartwell, 3 days of testing and racing in wet and dry conditions at Mt Gambier. A major first for me as I had never ridden on full wet race tyres before.
The weekend saw all 3 rivals pick up the pace in a big way. They each had a go at following me and they really rode well. I managed two first places and an amazing second to Craig in the last race. I think losing the championship to me last year really got him moving and did a lot of work to his bike in the off season and even lost 5 KG in weight!
He rode very well and deserved the win.
But he won't catch me sleeping again! It was just the wake up call I needed!

With just 3 days back to work then it was off to Winton for the Victorian titles at Winton.
All was going well till the second race and I missed a gear going into a 220 Km/h sweeper.
I then realized the bike was leaking oil all over my left boot making it very slippery.
Hitting the left 3rd gear corner not knowing if the oil was on the tire was frightening!
The huge 2M drift confirmed the worst and I had to slow with 3 laps to go. 3 of the most nervous laps ever got me to the line in 3rd place.

The bad news was that it was a split oil line! The same one that split at Broadford last year.
That was us out for the 3rd race and the chance of 2nd place in the Vic titles looking uncertain.
It was a very solemn drive back to Melbourne, and now we have to wait till November for the final round in the Vic titles to get a result.

I now have the bike handling better with much thanks to Dave at Krooztune.
Custom oil line by Pirtek.
Larger front rim to improve handling and tyre fitment by Upstart Racing.


The next race will be at Broadford on the 18th of May. Entry is free.

Till next time cheers!!!!

Chris Rostron