Roadholder 370 - October 2018

43 we saw the result which was truly impressive. A full stage, kitchen area and a bar were all swallowed up along with bench and table seating for over 300 under cover. But all this was just the aperitif - the rally proper started on Thursday. Thursday 16th August Thursday dawned gloriously sunny and, having settled into our surroundings, the first ride out was organised up into the mountains. Riding around and through the Red Bull Ring Racetrack, over 120 bikes climbed steadily through the magnificent scenery shepherded by Roland's team of tabard clad marshalls. Then the one rally mishap occurred … sent up a rocky mountain track - the front runners were dismayed to find the way blocked by a locked gate. Roland rode furiously up the track waving us all to return downhill - we'd been sent the wrong way! Thankfully there were no accidents and we carefully retraced our steps and, following a short unscheduled stop in a village square, continued our ride through the stunning scenery to a picturesque little pub in the mountains. After some much appreciated refreshment, courtesy of Roland, it was back to the camp site for a great dinner and drinks. We were beginning to rely on the catering which was uniformly excellent with hearty portions! Music was laid on by a local folk music band, which gave an opportunity for some to try out their lederhosen! My own '72 Commando seemed to have lapped up the experience and was running beautifully. Ever since I had bought the bike from NOC Vice Chairman, Barry Owen, I've been impressed with its reliability which seems Regular rallyists', Chris and Jenny Harvey, enjoy the run down after manhandling their Commander 180º down the rocky mountain track