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2008_02_29 Kalba Hatta Classic : Another good turnout despite the very foggy start. But the fog was only in Dubai and it got warmer as the ride went on. I had picked up some of the new stickers which look great - IF you actually put them on your bike! Len has sold all his plant and hardware to buy a Duke traillie thing like Peter's - but it looks so much better in red! Jim brought a mate from the UK along, Sam, who does a lot of trackdays and prefers sweepers - well we have the roads for you! Jim looked like Max Wall in his drainpipes and builders boots. Some old regulars also turned up, Andre, Ian and John - so the stage was set for cracker! A good pace down the Camel Road and onto the Mountain Section. John sits there so serenely while we bend our bikes left and right! It all flows along so well these days. A very short pause at the turning for Hatta and onto Kalba. Terry mentioned that he would try the border loop in reverse. And when I got there I thought, why not, and turned off, only to regret it because I saw a red MV sweep round the corner as I was looking back for Terry. Damn, I would have liked to have seen Andre in form! With most roads, when you ride them one way, you have a good idea as to what they will be like when you do the reverse trip. Not the border loop! I had two moments when I was surprised by the nature of the corner I was confronted with. And yes the route perfectly matches the BMW speed into Kalba, but I love that downhill bit and the run to the 2nd tunnel. Len and Phil never showed up at Kalba as they had gone straight to breakfast. Chat chat blah blah, business with large KitKat, I got my bar end away, then off we go back to Hatta for breakfast like a smooth running train. It was decided at breakfast that in keeping with "JunJun's Peak", "Gordons Corner" is now re-named "Gordons Drift". By the way, you'll see Gordon on his brand new ZX1300 soon! Chalk up the first sale to Jim! Ryan (Greg) played sweeper to the various people who took turns at being at the tail - thanks GBR! Then back down the twisites and home? WRONG! We went over to the track and saw Alex and Andy being drilled on keeping their elbows bent by the Cali Superbike instructors. JunJun was there doing the refreshments and the ordering around - she was in great form. And all the Eastie Boys were there taking part in the training - good lads - great to see you all! And lets not forget Suzie who was there for Andy, great to see you too! There were a lot of people wasting their money as they screamed around the track learning absolutely NOTHING! I noticed that people with racebikes felt compelled to go 10 tenths. As far as I remember, CSS Level 1 was all about not using any brakes or only the absolute minimum - wankers! But well done Andy and Alex, you are going to be even better riders next weekend! FOGs: Mark, Andre, Ian, John, Terry, MikeB, Ryan, Jim, Phil, Len, Sam.

2008_02_29 Kalba Hatta Classic

Another good turnout despite the very foggy start. But the fog was onl ...

Updated: Feb 29, 2008 7:08am PST

2008_02_22 Kalba Hatta Classic : An excellent turnout of 13 bikes! We had Hennie (Jim's top tech) join us on the big ZX13 and JohnnieP on his R1. With Team BMW on the run it enables us to split into two groups which makes everything so much smoother. We had a great run down the Camel Road and all enjoyed the thrill of the large sand drift across our lane at Ian's Drift. I was so certain that someone would hit it that I went back to be on hand to pickup the pieces! What was I thinking, we're experienced riders! Johnnie peeled off with a clutch problem so we were 12 when we got to Kalba. KGV got his wish and was photo'ed on Andy's 1098, you looked smashing Georgie, really! Words really can't do justice to the thrill of the ride, and we all kept well grouped together. Breakfast was a riot and we bumped into HD Pete and Terry took some cracking photos. Then the big blast back home - all our necks are stronger for it! FOGs: Mark, Andre, Andy, Terry, Greg, Mike, Mike, Alex, Jim, Peter, Mark Guest FOGs: Hennie&Frank, Johnnie

2008_02_22 Kalba Hatta Classic

An excellent turnout of 13 bikes! We had Hennie (Jim's top tech) join ...

Updated: Feb 23, 2008 12:52am PST

2008_02_15 Kalba Hatta Classic : And gentlemen in Jumeirah now a-bed Shall think themselves accursed they were not here, And hold their manhoods cheap whilst any speaks That rode with us on St Valentines day. Well there's always next week! There were just five of us and two groups, trailies and sports. Jim caught a bus on the way to the station and ended up on his bum. It's useful to have your own dealership, especially when the bus driver doesn't stop! It was a perfect day, in fact really quite warm, and Jim and I did a non-stop trip to Kalba at a very good lick, really, no stops at all. A good old natter at Kalba where we were joined by Faispro and his KL mates, a total blast back to Hatta, a fuel stop, then more chatta over breakfast. Don't forget guys, it's SOP to fill up before breakfast. Then on the way back Jim and I did the twisties a couple of times and thought that we would easily catch up with with the trailies, nope, the BMWs had gone for home by the time we got to the bridge, and only Pete was waiting for us! And we weren't hanging around! Happy Jim said that anyone who missed this trip had missed a really good one, which put me in mind of.... And gentlemen in England now a-bed... FOGs: Mark, Jim, Mike, Pete, Phil

2008_02_15 Kalba Hatta Classic

And gentlemen in Jumeirah now a-bed Shall think themselves accursed th ...

Updated: Feb 15, 2008 4:05am PST

2008_02_08 Kalba Hatta Classic : Thanks to Terry for this weeks write-up... A beautiful sunny, if a little chilly, morning greeted the FOGs gathering at 0730 at the usual rendezvous. Mark, Jim, Terry, Mike x 2, John and Peter made up the group. A speedy, safe and relatively uneventful run to Kalba ensued. Towards the end of the Camel Road Terry, who had been keeping up a fast pace close behind Mark, Mike and Jim, had a glance in his mirrors. Expecting to see some headlights back in the distance he got the surprise of his life to see John right on his tail. John certainly knows how to hustle the XJ beyond most people's expectations. Mike C was doubling up the FOGs trip with a visa run so turned right at Kalba to go across the border whilst the rest of the group stopped off for the usual beverage and chat. As the group departed on their way to Hatta, Mike appeared on the opposite carriageway and clearly was going to be back with the formation very soon. Surprisingly he wasn't right with the group by the time the others had made the customary stop at the turn off to the Hatta twisties. He eventually turned up but was clearly a little shaken. Making a fast pace through the Border Loop in an attempt to catch the group, he took a wrong turning and found the surprise a number of us have found in the past.. A fast looking road disappearing over a rise, only to find it is a dead end with only a small run off. Mike declared the obvious over breakfast - brakes don't work when both wheels are off the ground ! You are now an official FOG Mike! After the usual hearty Hatta breakfast joined by Mike, Sue and Amy, the group, minus Mike C who had to do a straight back run to go to work, headed back throught the twisties and home. As the group said their farewells at the bridge at the end of the Camel Road, Jim declared this to have been one of the best runs yet. A clear sunny day with little wind, a fast pace with riders respecting each other, some fun together along the way - what more could one want at the start of the weekend. FOGs: Mark, Jim, Terry, MikeB, John, MikeC, Peter

2008_02_08 Kalba Hatta Classic

Thanks to Terry for this weeks write-up... A beautiful sunny, if a li ...

Updated: Feb 09, 2008 6:40am PST

2008_02_01 Dibba Kalba Hatta : A very different ride this week. With the newspapers and junk emails forecasting hurricanes and total eclipses it looked like the ride may have to be called off - bollocks! Luckily the sand kept at ground level and didn't really become airborne so we didn't eat too much sand! Ali#1 turned up which was a surprise, but the bigger surprise was that Andy turned up on a super sexy yellow 1098! Jim apparently had been eying it up but it came back on the market and Andy snapped it up! Andy looked great on it and was definitely a smoother rider! Riding down the camel road was like being in a Yes album cover - surreal! The sand was swirling over the road and was so thick that you couldn't see the road surface! Terry woke up late (again) and arranged to meet us at the end of the Camel Road, then Maleihah, then Dhaid, then Masafi, then gave up chasing us and went straight to Kalba! There was a little too much waiting going on so it was past 10am when we had a coffee break in Dibba. We then did the coast road to Kalba where a very cold Terry was waiting for us. Coming off the coast the wind got a lot stiffer and many times you had to lean the bike further mid corner to handle the sharp gusts. Then off to Hatta for lunch! The wind really picked up as we got nearer the west coast and we had to slow it down a bit as sometimes you had to lean on the straights. It all went to making it an exciting and memorable ride. On a separate ride, Ron Anderson (Christian Bikers Association), who was borrowing Andy's Busa, crashed on the corner at the end of the 2nd tunnel on the Kalba pass. He broke his arm in four places and is in Al Dhaid hospital. As Jim said, don't go to those four places again! We hope you get mended soon Ron! FOGs: Mark, Andy, Mike, Terry, Jim, Alex, Peter, Ali#1, Len

2008_02_01 Dibba Kalba Hatta

A very different ride this week. With the newspapers and junk emails f ...

Updated: Feb 02, 2008 1:57am PST

2008_01_25 Kalba Hatta Classic : We all thought it would tip down - Nope! So the ones who were not put off by the rain clouds were rewarded with a cracking ride! Yep CRACKING Ride Grommit! We were joined by old friends: John who is back from hols in Denmark and Walt who has got his bike fixed perfectly. Surprise surprise, Peter turned up at the start, perhaps the 8am start helped. We also had some experienced newbies in the form of Len on a Triumph 900 and Phil on a BMW like Mike's. Mike also brought along his mate Rad on a R6 who is quite new to high speed road riding. Everyone is welcome! Ian was going by car with Elizabeth to join us at HFH. A short briefing for the new ones - no overtaking on the inside/right and no overtaking the leaders. Everyone understood? - Yep - Jim overtakes a van on the RHS on the first roundabout - Things that make you go Mmmmmm. At the start of the Camel Road we split into two groups, with Mike in charge of the "steadier" group. But steady does not mean slower as you will see on the ride back home! The two groups approach really works well, thanks Mike. All the fun sections were REALLY fun, boy did I have fun. John had fun too - look no chicken strips! I've still got some on those Dunlop Qualifiers - I need to go faster in the corners to take advantage of the more radical profile I suppose. At Kalba we chatted with the new ones, but sadly the old Trumpet decided to fire on only 2 of 3 cylinders so Len went straight home when we left. The twisties were great and John had a lunch appointment so he went back before breakfast. We saw a couple of Harley sportsters in the carpark, Jim said that it was Pete Devlin's. I thought he was joking. Ian and Elizabeth were there and it was great to meet them, and so was Pete in his Harley jacket! Not many Harley riders wear ground down knee sliders though! Loads of natter and eating and a lot of saluting from Travis. The BMW group, including Walt , skipped the garage and went ahead of us. Ian went ahead to take photos and got most of us as we went through - thanks mate - nice to see action shots. One of the Eastie Boys went into the concrete going the other way at Freak/R1 corner and ripped his jeans to shreds - leathers mate, wear leathers! Assistance was offered and kindly declined by Dency. By the way FOGs, your wives take in a lot more than you think, Elizabeth took note of who used brakes going into the corners, and who had a fluid riding style and who didn't - hahahahaha - your card has been marked so you better work on your riding style for next time! It took to the end of the Camel Road for us to catch up with the BMWs and Walt. Now, just who is the faster group now? A little too much stop/start/stop going on perhaps, but we do arrive that the finish at the same time which is great. Lets have more runs like that shall we? Mention has been made of taking a different route so we will do the Dibba variation next time! Hey Peter, it's so much more fun to join at the start isn't it?!!!! Thanks to Travis and Ian for the extra photos. FOGs: Mark, Mike, Mike, Walt, John, Jim, Travis, Peter Guest FOGs: Len, Phil, Rad Breakfast FOGs: Ian, Elizabeth, Pete D

2008_01_25 Kalba Hatta Classic

We all thought it would tip down - Nope! So the ones who were not put ...

Updated: Jan 27, 2008 2:52am PST

2008_01_18 Kalba Hatta Classic : A good turn out, eight of us. A very cold start - all the way to the first Kalba tunnel! Better wear a few more layers next week. We decided to take it easy because if the Dubai roads were anything to go by, the outlying roads would be covered in silt/sand and standing water. While we defrosted in Kalba we were joined by an Aussie couple (Billy & Trish) on a world tour who were a lot of fun, and agreed to join us for breakfast. It had taken them two or more years to work their way across the Far East and Subcontinent. Next, Oman then Africa! Peter told us that the Twisties were clear, but that there was a slippy area in the Kalba contraflow area. He was right, not even a stream on the Wadi sections! So flat out through there then! As it turned out the roads outside Dubai were in top nick and it was only Ian who stuck to his original promise of taking it easier! Breakfast, Twisties, Mountain Section, Camel Road, The Bridge, natter natter natter, home! Thanks for looking out for me Andy & Suzy! Thanks to Travis and Suzie for the extra photos! FOGs: Mark, Andy&Suzy, Ian, Terry, Mike, Travis, Alex Half FOG: Peter (What IS it about Mirdiff at 7am you don't like Peter?) Not Fast OG: Jim Guest FOG: Johnny P

2008_01_18 Kalba Hatta Classic

A good turn out, eight of us. A very cold start - all the way to the f ...

Updated: Jan 26, 2008 1:38am PST

2008_01_11 Kalba Hatta Classic : The big question: Was it going to rain? As it was very chilly and I had a bald tyre - not a good combination. The wet and the cold, and the wet and the bald tyre were the bad combinations, NOT the cold and the bald tyre. First surprise, Mike turned up on his lovely reconditioned 900RR, that's his bike not my bike that now is his bike. Second surprise, Greg was wearing a main and reserve parachute! Third surprise, no rain! We used the FOG Slow Step to group the bikes and then we set a lovely pace all the way to the end of the Camel Road. Brrrrrrr it was very sharp, and just when all feeling was leaving my hands the sun started giving off the first rays of warmth. We've lived the soft-life for too long guys! Then a near perfect run down to Kalba - I LOVE the bump of yellow lines in the morning! Terry was in good form today and punished any verbal f-up, mumbling, hesitation, repetition or deviation with alacrity - just like Nicholas Parsons! We were joined at the HFH by Peter who has too much money and has added a Duke SuperRetard to his stable, it's the one with funny mirrors that make you look like you have monkey arms. Shut up Terry! Well after following us back from Hatta at some rather silly speeds, he probably DOES have monkey arms now! Mike and Jim made the day even more interesting by running their own personal treasure hunt, Jim provided the clues, Mike did the hunting. Then a final meet up at the bridge called "The Bridge", photos and backslapping, and then home! Six hours of being super human - what a fantastic way to start a day! Andy was on his own today as Suzy's Mum has passed-away, so Andy, please pass on our best wishes and prayers to Suzy and her family from all her FOG mates. FOGs: Mark, Andy, Terry, Ian, Mike, Jim, Travis, Greg. Half FOG: Peter (You really must join us at the start Peter!)

2008_01_11 Kalba Hatta Classic

The big question: Was it going to rain? As it was very chilly and I ha ...

Updated: Jan 11, 2008 4:41am PST

2008_01_03 Kalba Hatta Classic : A very good start to the year! Happy New Year FOOGs! Yes we are all Faster Older Old Gits than we were this time last year! Ian celebrated the NY in style with a very natty set of one-piece leathers - there are many references to them in the pictures, so we won't mention them again - I promise! Jovial banter and stuff at the Khawaneej Eppco and then to business! A lovely fresh morning and a quick jog to the Camel Road followed by the traditional run to Mileiha and then through the Mountain Curves to Kalba Pass. I must tell you that I felt great today, the bike felt sharper and the cornering was crisper, perhaps a week off is what we all need from time to time. We spent about 3-4 months at Kalba whilst we chatted and MarkS, Terry and Travis took turns on the stunning ZX10, Jimbo playing pimp again! MarkS got off after giving it LARGE and pronounced that "That bike has loads of fooking grunt that has!" MarkS will be giving up his day job at Emirates to sharpen up the editorial content in Superbike mag with his concise analysis, he will also be giving up his credit card details to Jim fairly soon we suspect! Travis and Terry declined to comment. Then to Hatta, where we had the longest breakfast ever! I forgot to call Ben when we were at Kalba - oops, so Ben, Sue and Mandy were a little late arriving, but arrive they did to an ovation! Then Ryan (Greg/Brian) turned up after a solo run to Kalba and Hatta - Jasmine was hungry at 3am so he overslept. Two hours later and we were off again. Travis had gone home early with some pathetic excuse of having a plane to fly for Emirates - I wish I had thought of THAT one! And JJ decided the "direct" route was the best for her, even though MarkS had been a DG keeping her in his sights all day. We shook hands on The Bridge like a football team, minus the mascots, and MarkS/Terry/Jim took off like they had a TT to win. Not the best ending to the day - oh well - youngsters of today! FOGs: Mark, Andy&Suzie, Ian, Terry, JunJun, Jim, Travis, MarkS, Ryan, Brian, Greg Sidelined: Ben HOGs: Sue, Mandy

2008_01_03 Kalba Hatta Classic

A very good start to the year! Happy New Year FOOGs! Yes we are all Fa ...

Updated: Jan 04, 2008 4:25am PST

2007_12_28 Kalba Hatta Classic : Regular front runners FOGs Mark and Ben were not available today so the lead was taken by Terry. Ben couldn't make it for obvious reasons, but Mark put up the lame excuse that his mother was in town for 10 days and he needed to be with her. Terry did offer Mark his CB1300 so he could bring her with him but he mumbled something about her screaming to get off before they got to the end of the drive the last time he tried. Given he said he was on a Honda 250 at the time, it must have been some time ago. 4 out of 10 for effort methinks. Anyway, the tightly and perfectly formed group of Terry, Jim, Andre, Travis, MarkS and Andy and Suzie set off for a swift run to Kalba. Travis and Andy/Suzie were on photo duty. Terry did try taking some pictures at the Al Khawaneej start but he hadn't been able to find his own camera and had brought his wife Lorna's instead. A beautiful pink Casio in a black leather case with pink stitching. Given the doubts being cast over his personal orientation every time he brought it out, delegation seemed to be the best option for a peaceful life. It was a relatively uneventful trip straight through to Kalba with hardly a stop. Beautiful weather and better light given the later 0700 start time, Over a welcome beverage, Jim declared to Terry "Your eyesight must be better than mine - I didn't see those camels crossing the Camel Road ahead and was wondering why you were slowing us down." Terry didn't quite know how to answer given the group of camels numbered 35 shepherded by a LandCruiser pick-up. A bit of a worry. Up to Hatta for breakfast where a commonly held view of all present emerged. It was somehow much quieter this week. There also appeared to be some sadness amongst the waitresses that the usual hearty welcome and friendly banter of the one who balances his mobile phone on the handbag mounted on the tank of his Blade was absent. On the way home, Terry decided to up the pace a little on the straight sections. It seemed to work fine and was certainly endorsed by Jim whose grinning face could be seen even with his helmet on. Somehow Travis managed to go straight on at the Camel Road turn off on the way back. The rest of the group waited expecting that he would notice noone ahead at the next roundabout a few clicks down the road, do a u and rejoin. It wasn't to be. No phone message and knowing that he'd eventually get to the Hatta Road for a straight run home the rest of the group, after some light relief from Jim, Andre and Mark (see photo evidence provided by Suzie), decided to make tracks. A farewell at the usual last stop and a fast run home. A classic run, great company and no "events". FOGs: Terry, Andre, Andy&Suzie, Jim, Travis, MarkS.

2007_12_28 Kalba Hatta Classic

Regular front runners FOGs Mark and Ben were not available today so th ...

Updated: Dec 29, 2007 10:15am PST

2007_12_21 Kalba Hatta Classic Via Fili : What a great run! Cool weather, a good turn of speed, all riding in a tightish group. What more could a biker want? Jim brought a biking buddy along, Doug, who was on hols here, he borrowed a ZX14 and Andy's jacket. By all accounts he had a great day with the FOGs. Terry decided that he was well enough to join us and went straight to the Camel Road. We did the Camel Road and then Bens Road. Everyone agreed that Bens Roundabout is very hard to see and the warning signs are far too close. Oh well! Nothing we can do about it now. We met Terry at the end of Bens Road and then we went on to Kalba. Terry was in good form, and so was Travis, and Greg was getting used to his new Gixer 750 with rectangular tyres - they are like dragster rear tyres dude! Then onto Hatta and there was a right scrum - Sportsbikers, Harley Boys and residents all scrapping for fried eggs and omlettes. Banter over breakfast as usual, then we turn for home and a surprisingly quick run home. FOGs: Mark, Andy, Terry, Jim, Greg, Guy, Travis, MarkS Guest FOG: Doug

2007_12_21 Kalba Hatta Classic Via Fili

What a great run! Cool weather, a good turn of speed, all riding in a ...

Updated: Dec 21, 2007 11:48pm PST

2007_12_14 Hatta Via Fili : A good turn out of the founder members for a Classic with a twist - a new road between the end of the Camel Road and the start of the Mountain section. And a welcome back to Andre and JunJun. We spent a long time chatting at the Eppco and as we had an experienced field we took off at a good pace. The Camel Road was also taken at a lick, but you have to watch out for a bank of sand about midway down the road. Ian found it and looked 10 years younger when we next stopped - see photo. Then onto the new road, which starts at Fili. It already has a name, Bens Road, as he took a very nasty hi-side on a T-junction type roundabout. We were squinting into the low morning sun and failed to see a fast approaching roundabout. Whilst trying avoid me, Ben went onto some gravel, skidded, then the wheel caught and hi-sided Ben. He landed on his extended arm shattering his forearm and then broke his heal in half when his boots came to ground. He was in intense pain but did not make a whimper and "first aided" himself. Jim had the smart idea of getting a farm hand to make the call for us as he would know where he was. We were lucky and the guy quickly did the business. Then a succession of Emiratis also made calls on our behalf - thanks guys! Everyone stopped to offer help including a bunch of BMW riders - thanks for stopping guys! In fact everyone stopped except the Europeans - great! We posted Ian and Terry on the main road to guide the ambulance and subsequently the pick-up for the bike. The cops were great and so was the paramedic who Ben offered to punch if he insisted on strapping his arm! The cops fell around in laughter at that! I must tell you that Ben had been in severe pain for 12 hours when he went in for his op. As so often happens on bikes, the penalty did not fit the crime. By the way guys, get fully comp insurance, don't rely on your personal health insurance to cover a road accident, they will try to wriggle out of paying. Also, even if you are not going to claim for the bike, get a police report for yourself. When Ben's bike, which was hardly damaged, was picked up we carried on to Hatta where we heard that the was a special bash being laid on. It was true! Loads of Harleys and a BMW group or two. They had laid on a party with a band and free food - well done HFH and thanks! We also had a birthday cake for Andy which was nice. Happy Birthday mate! Andy and Suzie decided to stay on for the rest of the afternoon. Then we went off down the Twisties and then for home. I freshened up and went to help Sue and Ben out at the Welcare hospital in Garhoud, but not before a detour to Al Mulla Plaza first! Bleedin cones! Ben has been pinned and plated and is now out of hospital. He will be de-pined in six weeks and has already selected a new Arai and sourcing the parts he needs. FOGs: Mark, Ben, Ian, Andre, Andy&Suzie, Terry, JunJun, Mike (BMW)

2007_12_14 Hatta Via Fili

A good turn out of the founder members for a Classic with a twist - a ...

Updated: Dec 18, 2007 5:02pm PST

2007_12_07 Jebel Hafeet : Just the five of us to Jebel Hafeet. It took us long time to get to the garage at the foot of the mountain, what with dropped cameras and catapulted mobiles it didn't start well. Then off we went, and Ben and I rode up like tossers. Then we rode back down like bigger tossers and then we rode back up like... yes you guessed it. We were joined by Garth on his SP1 and he was taking it easy becuase he hadn't been on the mountain for 4 weeks! We tried again and on the way up we got into a bit of a groove, in fact we were looking quite good. That was until I got the line into a tight corner completely wrong! I was looking right and going left - I tucked the front wheel by braking and headed for the concrete barrier. Bike first, myself next and a small truck coming the other way was a distant third! So what would have happened if I had carried on going wide is not worth thinking about! Moral of the story - do not think you can ride Jebel Hafeet as well as you did on your last session, work up slowly - memorise the location of the tighter corners and take them later and harder - don't touch the brakes and trust your countersteering! My rear wheel rim was dented and the tyre was leaking air. We filled it to the brim with re-inflator and kept an eye on it all the way home. If I can get the wheel fixed/replaced I'll see you all next week! FOGs: Mark, Ben, Mike (BMW), JunJun, Travis

2007_12_07 Jebel Hafeet

Just the five of us to Jebel Hafeet. It took us long time to get to th ...

Updated: Dec 10, 2007 2:44am PST

2007_11_23 Hatta Only Classic : Perfect weather, even if a little chilly to begin with. We knew it would be a small group with the Rugby7s and a Trackday, but 5 of us made it, including Ben straight of the the plane! Ali#1 and Darryl were in for an intensive training day! A quick re-enforcement of the tips from last time, especially knee grip, and off we went. At the Camel Road, Ben took Darryl under his wing and Ali got some roundabout training at R1 roundabout from me. Ali lost his concentration when the others arrived and got a bollocking. His focus back in place and several trips back and forth over the r/a and Ali was soaking up the ideas and tips, well done mate! Then through the mountains and Ali joined us at the Munay junction with an almighty clattering coming from his engine! Turn it off!!!! It sounded like a really loose timing chain at first, but Dr Ben said that the noise was moving! And it was! When allowed to settle the "nut" or whatever was sitting in the sump and a quick rev would bring it clattering around the engine. The noise was NASTY! So we called for a truck and Andy's best mate turned up over an hour later to take Ali's bike to Twisters. Fingers crossed for Ali's wallet! Some of us thought that the nut/screw could have come from his slip-on exhaust and had, contrary to perceived wisdom, got into his engine! :-) There is a new theory put forward by Alex that you shouldn't get too happy when riding as this will bring on a mishap. I can also remember moments of extreme biking bliss that turned to disaster. So it was suggested that you should be a "grumpy racing demon" like Ben, and you won't crash or breakdown. Fair point! The truck turned up and Andy's best friend riveted the bike to the floorboard and bulkhead - there was no way that Ali's F4 was going to fall over. So obviously the lesson was learned. We only had time for a smooth cruise through the Twisties and the usual breakfast at HFH and then it was time to turn for home. Lovely weather, great riding, shame about Ali's bike. FOGs: Mark, Ben, Alex, Ali#1, Darryl

2007_11_23 Hatta Only Classic

Perfect weather, even if a little chilly to begin with. We knew it wou ...

Updated: Nov 30, 2007 9:01pm PST

2007_11_23 Kalba Hatta Classic : Well that was loads of fun! Two newbies and one returnee. Sandra turned up, Darryl joined us for the first time and Aussie Guy made a comeback on a borrowed Blade. Also Andy and Suzie got the Busa repaired in double quick time at Al Useless - a remarkable feat! Andre came to say hello and JunJun was put in charge of the B Team. Jim slept the first part of the trip and joined us at Hatta. I (Mark) forgot my passport and wallet so The Valley run was cancelled. Ooops sorry! No fog today so we made good time to Kalba including a couple of stops at the junctions. It was quite fresh and got warmer when we got to the mountains. Sandra showed us that she had done this before and kept up a good pace. Though by the turning for the Camel Road she had lost her clutch lever bolt, but Ben had a spare CBR900 fairing bolt that fitted perfectly - THAT happens every day - NOT! Lots of natter at Kalba. TIP: Don't ask owners of Municipality mopeds if you can ride their bikes as refusal might offend! But you can sit on it if you ask nicely! Then we took the Border Loop and I rode Terry's 1300 which compared to the rock hard Blade has hinges in places you least expect, has a very comfy sofa seat and forces you to sit like the Master of the Hunt. I bowed down to Terry because he actually hammers this on the track and keeps pace with us on the road - respect! But if it comes up for sale, ask me first! We caught up with JunJun and Darren in the Twisties (figure that out) and there was no drama either! A good laugh over breakfast - we are a noisy lot, perhaps we are going deaf! JJ, Darren and Sandra went back on the E44 and we picked up two strays and blasted back through the Twisities. Jim felt both his tyres move - sideways - on the first corner and realised that the silicon spray they use at Motor Shows for shining the tyres doesn't enhance traction. Not enough grooves I say :-) A nice swift trip back and Ben, Jim, Mark, Andy & Suze had ice creams at the usual garage before returning home. And Suzie bought Andy a brand new Busa - very generous of you Suzie! Thanks guys for making it a great run! FOGs: Mark, Ben, Ian, Terry, Andy&Suzy, Andre, JunJun, Guy Late FOG: Jim Newbie FOGs: Sandra, Darryl

2007_11_23 Kalba Hatta Classic

Well that was loads of fun! Two newbies and one returnee. Sandra turne ...

Updated: Nov 23, 2007 1:54am PST

2007_11_16 Kalba Hatta Classic : Another really foggy friday! But you have to live with it! Come on, be a FOG about it! John brought along his son Jimmy who rode pillion because they couldn't hire a bike. Terry had a new bike because he had fitted some matching ROAD tyres in place of his track remoulds, so his riding was a lot smoother. Ali just couldn't handle the fog and kept slipping back, just trust the rider in front of you mate and follow his tail light! Ali got so far back that he turned for home which was a wise move. As you will see from the photos, the visibility was very poor. I know it's not strictly correct but I think we should all keep our left hand indicators flashing when we are on the Kalba road, you can pick out the orange a little faster than the red tail light. For the first time ever I was really pleased the trucks had their hazards on! :-) Then after the junction with the Camel road it all cleared apart from the odd fog bank Lovely clear skies and warm sun started to dry out our leathers and the Kalba pass was taken fluidly. Then to Hatta and we went straight to the HFH because everyone knew the route, and if Gordon didn't, he could always ask, right? Peter and family were there for breakfast, his eye has been lasered! The bacon and eggs arrived but Gordon hadn't, so we thought I had better go looking for him. I went back down the route and found Gordon near JunJun corner (on the summit of the twisites) walking towards Hatta. He had dropped the bike on the 3rd corner before JJ corner, he had lifted it up but couldn't get it started. As we know, there isn't a mobile signal on that part of the road so this why he hadn't called. We finally got the bike started, one carb needle was jammed, and the forks were twisted a bit, but the damage was very minor and he was mobile. So back for more breakfast! But if Gordon hadn't had his leathers on, he would have lost serious amounts of skin. So Jimmy&John (Jimmy riding) and Gordon went back the "straight" route, and Terry and I went back the twisties way. It was a lovely run back! FOGs: Mark, Terry, John&Jimmy, Gordon, Ali

2007_11_16 Kalba Hatta Classic

Another really foggy friday! But you have to live with it! Come on, be ...

Updated: Nov 16, 2007 11:31pm PST

2007_11_09 Classic Kalba Hatta Run : A lot of fun! We had 11 bikes and the riding was good. Joined for the first time by Simon on a Duke. Again we had thick fog until the Camel Road, where it suddenly cleared. Ben led through the Kalba Pass, and Ian lead via the border road back to Hatta. Ali & Ali had joined us again and they got some training, on the roundabout near the dip, on how to keep the throttle open in a corner! Seemed to make a big difference on the Kalba Pass for Ali#1, 140 through the bends and no brakes! Then breakfast which was a quiet affair until Mark turned up. Then on the way back poor old Andy cracked his sump on a speed bump at the HFH, luckily we noticed it leaking at the end of the twisties. You were luck Andy it didn't seize - that would have been very nasty. But on the way back on the breakdown truck the the bike slipped on it's oil and toppled over on a roundabout damaging the fairing, tank and seat. Very sorry to hear that mate. His bike will be out of order for 6 plus weeks. Anyone know of a spare Busa! FOGs: Mark, Ben, Ian, Andy&Suzy, Terry, Mike, Jim, Greg, Ali#1, Ali#2, Simon.

2007_11_09 Classic Kalba Hatta Run

A lot of fun! We had 11 bikes and the riding was good. Joined for the ...

Updated: Nov 10, 2007 1:03am PST

2007_11_02 Classic Kalba Hatta Run : We were joined by Superstock Pete on one of Jim's 600's, and Jim turned up on a stunning ZX14. We had a great run down to Kalba. Gordon was well up on the pace and only his second day out. I had a run on the 14 from the Hatta turning to Kalba. For such a big bike it really is easy to chuck around and it is very sure footed, less feedback than the Blade, but more comfortable! This is a bike for the big guys like Andy and Gordon. I grade it 95%. Then the rest of the guys had a go, including Ian (don't believe the captions), and everyone loved it. Andy & Gordon - you MUST have one! We did the loop round (border road) to the Kalba road and made good time for breakfast at HFH. So far, a fantastic day out, everyone was having a blast, and it was great to have Pete join us. Then it took a turn for the worse. Manoj called to say that Arnab's ZX10 had smashed into Vivek's new Blade at the Hatta junction on the Kalba road near Munay. Both bikes were totalled and an air ambulance was needed to get Arnab back to Dubai! There was an added complication, Arnab had borrowed Jim's ZX10 for that day. So Jim had to go home to get the paperwork for the Kalba Cops, who were great as usual. Then in walked Peter who had seen the accident - he was ashen. So we split into two groups and Andy & I rode back with Peter after he had finished breakfast. I later got a call to say that Arnab had a broken his jaw and lower leg and was medivaced to Rashid Hospital a hour later - poor guy. I then received another call from Pradeep to tell me that Amrit had narrowly missed being hit by a sideways sliding Lexus on the Hatta Twisties. The bikers had the last laugh though, the Lexus driven by a Cop ended up on it's roof stuck on the side of the mountain! What a day! Hey Arnab, all the FOGs are routing for you mate, hope you start mending soon! FOGs: Mark, Ian, Andy&Suzy, Jim, Gordon, Pete, Peter

2007_11_02 Classic Kalba Hatta Run

We were joined by Superstock Pete on one of Jim's 600's, and Jim turne ...

Updated: Nov 02, 2007 7:07am PST

2007_10_26 Classic Kalba Hatta Run : Back to 10 riders! Yeeeha! We had three newbies if you include Ali from last time. Ali brought along a mate called Ali. We were also joined by Gordon, aka Flash, on a 90's CB1300 - that's a lot of metal! Had a training session on the Camel Road with the two Alis, and they really took it in - good lads. Ian had just said, "Where are the Eastie Boys?" before we left Kalba for Hatta, and the answer was that they were dealing with Rohit who had a bad tumble on the Kalba roundabout. Suzy was brilliant, she put him a recovery position and told everyone, including the cops, what had to happen! Thanks Suzy and I know the Eastie Boys are very grateful too. Rohit is recovering in ICU and we wish him well. Then we almost rode into a wreath laying for Samer on the Hatta Twisites. We unveiled the new FOGs logo designed by Ian's son Chris at breakfast to great approval by all - you'll see it on a website, Tshirt and sticker near you soon. By the way, the riding was good, perhaps a couple too many stops, certainly for Jim's liking, but sometimes it has to be like that. We were joined by Mike in the Twisties for the ride home - our 2nd half substitute. Happy birthday to Travis Cowley on Monday 29th October! Also, belated birthday wishes to... Andre Peterson, 24th October Walt Phillips, 12th October - Errrrr! WRONG! Walt uses stupid US dates - it's the 10th of December! Sorry Andre, we'll make it up to you! Somehow! FOGs: Mark, Ben, Ian, Andy&Suzy, Mike (IronButt), Alex, Jim, Mike (Clegg) Guests: Ali#1, Ali#2, Gordon

2007_10_26 Classic Kalba Hatta Run

Back to 10 riders! Yeeeha! We had three newbies if you include Ali fro ...

Updated: Oct 26, 2007 12:19pm PST

2007_10_19 Classic Kalba Hatta Run : What with broken bikes, Iron Butt, Raceworld & Flu, only three of the regulars made it. We had a newbie in the form of Ali on his CBR600F. A few counter-steering lessons on the Camel Road and he was getting into the swing of things. But most importantly, he kept within his comfort zone - well done mate & nice to meet you! It was a lovely fresh and clear day and the riding was great, my new Michelin Pilot Sports were chicken strip free by Kalba - they are a lot better than I expected. A couple of nice surprises at HFH, Peter was there with his family, and so was John (Yam) Boss with 1000's of other Bosses, well about 8 really! It was great to see you all! HFH service was not so good today, new staff, we may have to have a word next time. And goodbye to Alex (the Chef at Hatta Fort) he left for home back in Bali India today, after 20 years in the UAE. I was "in the zone" on the Twisties on the way back, but Ali went missing. So we went back down the Twisties to look for him, but half way I had a message from Ali to say he was going back the direct route. Oh well, but thanks to him for letting us know. We did the Twisties four times! Then a good blat home, waving goodbye to Ben at Mileiha cos he was going diving in Dibba. Thanks to all those FOGs that let us know they were not going to turn up. FOGs: Mark, Ben, Oleg Newbie FOG: Ali

2007_10_19 Classic Kalba Hatta Run

What with broken bikes, Iron Butt, Raceworld & Flu, only three of the ...

Updated: Oct 19, 2007 9:21am PST

2007 10 12 Classic Kalba Hatta Run : Really good run today, Ben, Mark, Alex, Andre and JJ started off at 6am. Straight run to Kalba where we all had free sweets at the Kalba petrol station, (Eid Mubarak lads). The Eastie boys appeared shortly after we arrived and joined in the celebration, finishing the sweets off. On then to Hatta for the full Monty where Jim joined us, shortly followed by the Eastie boys for the last of the bacon. The way back home was even better than usual as Jim let Ben, Mark and Alex all play on the 2007 ZX10 (cheers mate) ……… we all agree that is one awesome ride………………. For those of you that didn’t turn up …..shame on you, you missed another good run. There is still a lot of diesel on the Hatta twisties (now in both directions).

2007 10 12 Classic Kalba Hatta Run

Really good run today, Ben, Mark, Alex, Andre and JJ started off at 6a ...

Updated: Oct 12, 2007 9:06am PST

2007_10_05 Classic Kalba Hatta Run : A really great run! A bit of a cross wind made it sandy in places, but lovely and cool for the most part. Mike rode the "Water Bike" - No bugs on him - literally - have you seen that screen! Good smooth riding throughout. Ben lead through the Kalba Pass, which made a nice change. Met Andy and Suzie at the HFH who were out with Ron and the CBA. The wind/sand got up on the Camel Rd "dog-leg" and made it a little gritty, but hey, you've got to live with it. Final goodbyes on "The Bridge" and then home. Oh yes, Ben tested Jim's GPZR10 and loved it - got lots of smooth grunt. Will he buy one? Time will tell! FOGs: Mark, Ben, Terry, Mike, Jim, Peter

2007_10_05 Classic Kalba Hatta Run

A really great run! A bit of a cross wind made it sandy in places, but ...

Updated: Oct 07, 2007 11:53am PST

2007_09_29 Saturday Kalba Run : Well what to say. Ben Ian and Mike set off at 6.30am, Mike was on his newly painted Blade. Foggy all the way to camel road then suddenly brilliant sunshine.................excellent run through the camel road and down to Kalba smooth steady speed all the way, after the first tunnel Ben had a massive blow out and couldn't steer at all . He managed to stop and pull over but the front tyre was completely FLAT. Luckily we had some tyre fix but the hole was so big it all came out. Ian and Mike to the rescue. went down to Kalba and got a temporary fix, when they returned Ben slowly and only just (after 2 stops to re fill) made it to a Bridgestone Garage at Kalba. On the way down 2 Dukes passed us but Mike couldnt resist showing them who the FOGs were and left them for dust. A quick AED 20 repair and then a smooth ride all the way home. Thanks to Ian and Mike for the support.......Good FOGs. FOGs: Ben, Ian, Mike

2007_09_29 Saturday Kalba Run

Well what to say. Ben Ian and Mike set off at 6.30am, Mike was on his ...

Updated: Sep 30, 2007 7:54am PST

2007_09_28 Kalba Hatta Classic : Really thick fog greeted the FOGs on the Emirates Road and it was the same all the way to Mileiha. We nearly missed the turning to Kalba off the E611, but a sharp counter-steer put us on the right side of the bollards! But when you got above the fog, boy was it a sight to see - like a rolling white sea amongst the sand and rocks. We skipped the Camel Road because it's low lying - Camels and fog are not a good combination. The Mountain Route and the Kalba Pass were fantastic to ride and to look at, no haze at all. We saw no other bikes until 10am, well we have a name to live up to! We had an illicit water break behind the shop, then on to Hatta. The service at HFH is amazing, and stand by for a bumper breakfast in the near future, they have my number and will be calling me shortly! Then back through the twisties and Terry really got to grips with the Blade. I made the mistake of not waiting at the Mileiha slip road, so Terry and I tried to figure out at the start of the Camel Road whether John and Peter were following us or if they went straight home, mmmmm, we did the Camel Road and waited at the Mahfeez junction, mmmmm, then Peter turns up and then John. Phew! Never leave your buddy in the desert - right? Right! Great run, loved it! FOGs: Mark, Terry, John&Inge. Latterly: Peter

2007_09_28 Kalba Hatta Classic

Really thick fog greeted the FOGs on the Emirates Road and it was the ...

Updated: Sep 30, 2007 7:58am PST

2007_09_21 Dibba Fujairah Kalba Hatta : It was just the four of us on three bikes. So we had a nice smooth run to Dibba. It's amazing the things you see when you go off on different routes and at a slightly slower pace. Stopped at Masafi but couldn't drink the water - cos it is Ramadan! So the water break was on the beach at Dibba. Then on down the coast through Korfakkan, Fujairah and then Kalba. As we always say, watch out on the roundabouts on this road cos they are slippy, so a steady and smooth throttle is the key - keep it fluid. Then the Kalba Pass and Hatta Twisites at a good pace b'cos the bacon was calling by then. WATCH OUT! There are 1000's of gallons of diesel on the very twisty part of the hill between Huwaylat and Hatta. It's on the Huwaylat side of the hill and on the Huwaylat bound carriageway, about halfway up the hill. Hit that and you are on your ass! Then we had a massive breakfast and headed for home. A very nice rideout, no incidents, just fun riding and a great laugh! One problem though, I left my camera at work, so it's pathetic video grabs until Andy sends me his photos. (Hint hint Andy). FOGs: Mark, Andy & Suzie, Ian

2007_09_21 Dibba Fujairah Kalba Hatta

It was just the four of us on three bikes. So we had a nice smooth run ...

Updated: Sep 26, 2007 4:34am PST

2007_09_14 Kalba & Hatta Classic I [Reset] : With the much awaited return of the Moral Officer, we had a great day! The Special was called off due to Ramadan and the lack of passports! Jim turned up on a very sexy ZXR10 which matched his leathers nicely, and sounded great. (The bike not Jim). Met up with the "Eastie Boys"* on the Kalba stretch which was tricky in places. Guys, have a read of this article, you'll enjoy your ride so much more! The garage shop was closed at Kalba so we made tracks to Hatta quite quickly. A great run through the twisities and then a full-on BFast from our fans at the HFH! Suzie was in great form with her Bangcock (sic) stories, and Jim cleared the restaurant with his "50 ways" variations, the first one involves a banana. It is perhaps worth remembering that if you go to Bangkok... "you touch - you pay"! Then the trip home, this time with poor quality photos by Mark. Saw Mike (BMW) on the twisties heading the other way! Black marks for exceptionally poor timekeeping! We rode well as a group and we let Andre & JunJun do their thang whilst they get back in the groove. Andre's MV looks soooo good with the alloy wheels. Pics have been added - thanks dude. FOGs: Mark, Ian, Terry, Andy & Suzie, Andre, JunJun, Jim. Very very very late FOG: Mike (BMW) * [You have the right to name your group, if you don't come up with your own - one will be provided for you :-) ]

2007_09_14 Kalba & Hatta Classic I [Reset]

With the much awaited return of the Moral Officer, we had a great day! ...

Updated: Sep 14, 2007 6:00am PST

2007_09_07 Dibba Kalba Special : A great rideout! Only four of us this week, a bit like the old times. A Special to Dibba via the Camel Road, then Fujairah and Kalba City, finishing up with breakfast at Hatta. That's a round trip of 500 clicks (same as London to Cardiff and back!) but we did it in good time, and with a couple of stops for photos thrown in. John's photos will be added shortly. We were so into "cruise" mode by the time we came off the coast road, that we didn't really attack the Kalba Pass or the Twisites. It was great to see different scenery and to take it a little bit easy - well you have to on the coast road, it's really slippery. Looking forward to doing it again! FOGs: Mark, Ben, John, Jim

2007_09_07 Dibba Kalba Special

A great rideout! Only four of us this week, a bit like the old times. ...

Updated: Sep 08, 2007 4:54am PST

2007_08_31 Kalba & Hatta Classic XI : A good turnout and a good fast run, were getting tighter as a group again - great! Walt joined the Indian Dudes group so that he could meet us in Kalba but unfortunately tucked his bike on some diesel - sorry to hear that mate! The BMW boys were good enough to stop when we took Walts call, thanks guys! Terry was in good shape on his new Blade and running well too! Peter joined us from the start for the first time. Greg missed the start due to a hangover that lasted the entire ride, but managed to catch us at Kalba - not bad. Breakfast was the usual laugh, but we keenly await the return of the Moral Officer next week! Pictures on the Twisties on the way home - sorry guys my action shots are crap - if you are not in the frame, I photo'ed the road and not you. Time for a change - we'll go for a special next week. FOGs: Mark, Ben, Andre, Ian, Terry, Mike B, Greg, Alex, Jim, Peter, Mark S

2007_08_31 Kalba & Hatta Classic XI

A good turnout and a good fast run, were getting tighter as a group ag ...

Updated: Aug 31, 2007 2:24am PST

2007_08_25 Kalba & Hatta Classic X : Well that was fun wasn't it! A good smooth run with minimum stops. Andre and John buddied up so they looked after each other, though it would be nicer if we could ride as a tighter group. Ben got back in the groove right away after quite a few weeks away - not bad! But his bike got a hole in the rad and dumped an entire mud bank on his engine casing and boots. Alex came back and worked hard as tail end charlie - fair dos - as they say in Convictville. Sadly Jim fell between the two groups and missed the turning for Hatta - you should give us a call Jimbo! - but we should have waited too! Had the usual excellent service at HFH, there were so many bikers there you wouldn't think that is was mid-summer, amazing! By the way, HFH want to say "thank you" and lay on something special for us after Ramadan - that's really cool, so don't miss that ride. Bad news :-( No more Saturday rideouts: Desert Dawg was keen to point out that we could be held responsible if someone hurts themselves during an event organised by us. I have a business to run, so I can't take the risk. See petrolheads site for the "official line"... http://www.dubaipetrolheads.com/index.php?topic=1085 I'll tell you more about this next Friday. Good news :-) Terry has bought the "sister" bike to mine. So we'll see him on his like-new '06 Blade next weekend - Cool! I'll have to put initials on my bike so that Terry doesn't ride mine by mistake! FOGs: Mark, Ben, Andre&JunJun, John&Line, Terry, Jim, Alex & Peter (Late arrival)

2007_08_25 Kalba & Hatta Classic X

Well that was fun wasn't it! A good smooth run with minimum stops. And ...

Updated: Aug 28, 2007 6:55am PST

2007_08_17 Kalba & Hatta Classic IX : Yet another attempt at a "Special"! This time it was aborted b'cos Andre didn't keep up. Sorry guys, but there you are. Anyway, Terry, Ian and I had fun on the Kalba Pass working on our lines and entry speeds. Luckily we bumped into Jim on the Hatta Twisties so he joined up with us again. Terry and Ian took the direct route home b'cos they had "commitments", whilst we went had our photo's taken in the Twisties by John. I tried to take John's photo in the Mountain Section but failed to get a good one - it's point and click? Right? Obviously not! At least we tried. Thanks again to John. I dropped by Ben's place on the way home and he's suffering from withdrawal symptoms - so he'll be out next Friday. Update: Arnab very kindly sent in some of his FOG photos - Thanks mate! FOGs: Mark, Andre/JJ, Ian, John, Terry, Mike, Jim Guest FOG: Peter

2007_08_17 Kalba & Hatta Classic IX

Yet another attempt at a "Special"! This time it was aborted b'cos And ...

Updated: Aug 25, 2007 3:12am PST