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JB500 2023 - (10th Anniversary)
JB500 2023 - (10th Anniversary)
Riders: Inver, KatoTodd, Jersyboy, XRAdam, Bigal+ Adam, Jack, Mark E - guests (Buzz, JP, Gracey, Brad, Josh) Day 1: We gathered bright and early at Inver's to load our overnight bags onto the trailer. With the spirit of adventure coursing through our veins, we brapped our bikes and hit the streets, feeling like true 1%ERS. Our destination? The sand trails that awaited us to Jurien Bay. The first 20 kilometers set the tone for the next two days. If you weren't a fan of sand, you quickly found out, as one rider took a tumble, experiencing their first taste of dirt. Soon after the black DR400z began spewing oil from its head cover. Both DRz's had to break away from the group to fix the issue, rejoining us later at Moore River. It seemed like Team Suzuki was in for a rough weekend. The sand tracks continued to challenge us, draining our energy as we made our way to Moore River. The recent rain hadn't reached our coastal communities, leaving the trails dry and dusty. As we approached Seabird, the black DR400z once again had an oil mishap, this time from a hose connection. We quickly resolved the issue on the trail, but another rider found themselves flying over the handlebars due to a front wheel washout. After Ledge Point, the tracks opened up to fire trails, allowing us to find our rhythm. At the Lancelin stop, we had to tackle some serious repairs. Rear wheel bearings were replaced, carburetor was retuned, gear shifter was fixed, and we delved deeper into the electrical issues plaguing the yellow DR400z. With time slipping away and the afternoon wearing on, we made the decision to change our route to Jurien, hoping to make up for lost time by riding along the beach all the way to Cervantes. It turned out to be one of the most exhilarating beach runs we had ever experienced. The ocean was calm, resembling a smooth milk pond, and at low tide, we were able to venture further than expected, navigating a tricky rock section that led us right into Hangover Bay. From there, we rode on the asphalt to Jurien, where cold beers awaited us as the sun had set. We enjoyed our dinner at the hotel and continued the festivities back at the house, partying well into the night. Some riders found themselves hydrating more than they had anticipated. Day 2: We started the day with a delicious BBQ breakfast, serviced our bikes and ensured the house was left spotless. With our race faces on, we embarked on the journey back to Perth, riding the fire trails. Along the way, we encountered a few bike issues. The Beta's rear wheel nut came loose, one rider had to deal with a flat front tire, going through two tubes before getting it right. The yellow DR400z continued to struggle with battery charging problems, forcing Adam to break away from the group at Wilbinga. The rest of us battled through whoops and rough sand tracks, eventually making our way back to Quinn's late in the afternoon. As we crossed the finish line, XRCass was there to greet us with cold beers, solidifying his status as a true legend of the CQ’s. Big thanks to Inver, XRAdam, and Helen for their unwavering support and organization of the 10th JB500. It was yet another fantastic ride. ROTD goes to Inver for leading the ride for two days at race pace.         |
