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101Back to top Go down   Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Empty K Fest Sun May 06, 2018 11:47 am

franktherat


active member
active member
Barry in In

Photos, Videos and written reports yes.

Folk songs I will leave to 92KK 84WW Olaf.

    

Crazy Frog

Crazy Frog
admin
admin
Franktherat will send me the souvenir program and I will try to put it online for the forum members not able to attend the K-fest.
Next year, we should have a charter plane taking all our Ks from North America to Donington.
Who knows, it sounds crazy but this could be affordable. Laughing


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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Frog15Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Logo2101986 k75, 1985 K100rt, 1985 K100rt/EML GT2 sidecar, 1999 K1200lt/Hannigan Astro Sport sidecar.
    

Rick G

Rick G
admin
admin
You'll need to feed him plenty of Guinness and then you wont understand a word. Very Happy


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"Man sacrifices his health in order to make money.
Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health.
And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived."   Dalai Lama


Bikes 1999 K1100 LT with a Big Block 1200
    

Ringfad

Ringfad
Life time member
Life time member
k1 all ready for the trip to K fest.

ABS now refitted as PO had removed it. As well as the brake pipes , discs and sensors, modules and controller it also involved replacing the wiring loom as he had also cut out most of the ABS cables !!.

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 P1030910


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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Ir-log10

 ;BMW; K1 Black 1993 60K Km     ;BMW;  K1100RS Black 1996       ;BMW; K1 Blue 1990 25K Miles

 ;BMW; K1200RS Red
    

charlie99

charlie99
VIP
VIP
looks fantastic simon


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cheezy grin whilst riding, kinda bloke ....oh the joy !!!! ...... ( brick aviator )

'86 K100 RT..#0090401 ..."Gerty" ( Gertrude Von Clickandshift ) --------O%O
'86 k100 rs.. #######..  "Fred " (f(rame) red ) ( Fredrick leichtundschnell ) - -
bits and pieces from many kind friends across the k100 world ...with many thanks ..
1987 k100rs ########   "Red"  - (red sports rs TWB style )
1989 K100rt #009637   "Black Betty"  (naked rt ala Nigel , now sporting an rs main fairing )
    

indian036

indian036
Life time member
Life time member
Ringfad wrote:k1 all ready for the trip to K fest.

ABS now refitted as PO had removed it. As well as the brake pipes , discs and sensors, modules and controller it also involved replacing the wiring loom as he had also cut out most of the ABS cables !!.

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 P1030910
like


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1985 K100RT  VIN 0028991  My original Very Happy ROB the Red Old Bike   (Historic rego)
1985 K100RT  VIN 0029036  BOB the Blue Old Bike  (Historic rego)
1990 K100LT  VIN 0190452  Work in progress
1984 K100RT  VIN 0023022  Work needing lots of progress

1986 K100RT  VIN 0090542  Work needing lots and lots of progress
1993 K1100LT  VIN 0183046  Work in progress
1993 K75S  VIN 0213045  Tom the Triple (now on Historic rego too.)
    

Gaz

Gaz
Life time member
Life time member
Simon, I hope you have a full set of highly polished black leathers to wear on that bike - looks like a Black Knight Superhero type of machine.

Well done with it. Enjoy the weekend!  We will be with you all in spirit.

Cheers


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Gaz
1990 K75 6427509; 1987 R80G/S PD 6292136; 2010 G650GS ZW13381; 95 K1100LT 0232224
    

Ringfad

Ringfad
Life time member
Life time member
Crazy Frog made it to K Fest, and was placed on the sKroll by Will.

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 P1040010


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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Ir-log10

 ;BMW; K1 Black 1993 60K Km     ;BMW;  K1100RS Black 1996       ;BMW; K1 Blue 1990 25K Miles

 ;BMW; K1200RS Red
    

Barry in IN

Barry in IN
Silver member
Silver member
I'm not seeing any videos of folk song singin'.

This K is my K, this K is your K. 
The splines they are a-changin'. 
Kumbayah.


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1992 K75s
    

Ringfad

Ringfad
Life time member
Life time member
At the meal on the Saturday night I got talking to one of the guys and he told be his other interest was bell ringing.

He then mentioned that a group of other bell ringers on motorcycles go round some church's. He also mentioned that the police were sometimes called when they arrived at a new church :-)

No video's unfortunately. You meet the most interesting people on a K.


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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Ir-log10

 ;BMW; K1 Black 1993 60K Km     ;BMW;  K1100RS Black 1996       ;BMW; K1 Blue 1990 25K Miles

 ;BMW; K1200RS Red
    

92KK 84WW Olaf

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
My uncle used to make bells.

He also raced a Norton Atlas.......he had it from new or almost new and surreptitiously hidden from his wife for over 20 years who thought he rode a Honda 50. That part was true, the dutiful son rode his Honda 50 that he commuted to work on to see his dad every Saturday and who had the Norton fired up ready to go for a blast up the Wicklow mountains. The Honda 50 would be ridden home.......

Colourful characters, small world.

Bring on K Fest 2019.


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1992 K100LT 0193214 Bertha Blue 101,000 miles
1984 K100RT 0022575 Brutus Baja Red 578 bought 36,000 now 89,150 miles
1997 K1100LT 0188024 Wotan Mystic Red 689 58,645 now 106,950 miles Deceased.
1983 K100RS 0011157 Fricka 606 Alaska Blue 29,495 miles Damn K Pox Its a Bat outta Hell Now 58,200 miles. 
1996 K1100LT 0233004 Lohengrin Mystic Red 38,000 miles currently 51,800 miles.
1983 K100RS 0004449 Odette R100 colours 58,000 miles. Sprint fairing now 63,390 miles

Past:
1968 Yamaha 80 YG1
1971 Yamaha 125 YAS-1
1968 Honda 125 SS
1970 Honda CD 175
1973 Honda CB500-4
Honda CX 500
    

Barry in IN

Barry in IN
Silver member
Silver member
Tell me that's not the makings of a song right there!


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1992 K75s
    

92KK 84WW Olaf

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
'I rode my K past your window last night......
.......

.......
I got a band new Keeeaay.!!


__________________________________________________
1992 K100LT 0193214 Bertha Blue 101,000 miles
1984 K100RT 0022575 Brutus Baja Red 578 bought 36,000 now 89,150 miles
1997 K1100LT 0188024 Wotan Mystic Red 689 58,645 now 106,950 miles Deceased.
1983 K100RS 0011157 Fricka 606 Alaska Blue 29,495 miles Damn K Pox Its a Bat outta Hell Now 58,200 miles. 
1996 K1100LT 0233004 Lohengrin Mystic Red 38,000 miles currently 51,800 miles.
1983 K100RS 0004449 Odette R100 colours 58,000 miles. Sprint fairing now 63,390 miles

Past:
1968 Yamaha 80 YG1
1971 Yamaha 125 YAS-1
1968 Honda 125 SS
1970 Honda CD 175
1973 Honda CB500-4
Honda CX 500
    

komandoalicante

komandoalicante
Silver member
Silver member
From here my apologies for not participating before in this post,

And my thanks to Frank for the great organization of this event and the rest of my colleagues, it was very satisfying to name the forum's nickname.

I hope to receive conversation classes in English because the language barrier left me very far from transmitting everything I wanted to send you.

Thanks, I felt at home

https://i.servimg.com/u/f62/18/69/75/66/cimg7210.jpg


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SAK3 and komandoalicante is the same person

In March we made a International meeting  KEDADA ALICANTE of BMW motorcycle K in  Spain.

The last meeeting  March 2020

https://youtu.be/hfqxlGeEVsY
https://picasaweb.google.com/100417997445250027277
    

Gaz

Gaz
Life time member
Life time member
Some rough looking Krew from down under celebrating the success of your K-Fest in the UK around the campfire at Wells Crossing.

Ed couldn't make the trip but made sure the T shirt did.

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 5ab5d610

Well done all!

Cheers


__________________________________________________
Gaz
1990 K75 6427509; 1987 R80G/S PD 6292136; 2010 G650GS ZW13381; 95 K1100LT 0232224
    

116Back to top Go down   Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Empty K Fest Mon May 21, 2018 4:52 pm

franktherat

franktherat
active member
active member
Cheers Gaz.

Love the photo and we really appreciate all the support.

With the sidecar taxi rides and other bits and pieces over the weekend nearly £1800 was raised for the two charities.

A top top weekend.

Regards

Franktherat.

    

117Back to top Go down   Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Empty K Fest Mon May 21, 2018 5:01 pm

franktherat

franktherat
active member
active member
komandoalicante wrote:From here my apologies for not participating before in this post,

And my thanks to Frank for the great organization of this event and the rest of my colleagues, it was very satisfying to name the forum's nickname.

I hope to receive conversation classes in English because the language barrier left me very far from transmitting everything I wanted to send you.

Thanks, I felt at home

https://i.servimg.com/u/f62/18/69/75/66/cimg7210.jpg
I only joined the forum recently.

It was a great pleasure to have you attend the K Fest my friend. I am so pleased you enjoyed the event. I think we all overcame the language barrier especially with the help of Jaime and Emma.

See you soon and safe travels.

Franktherat

    

Born Again Eccentric

Born Again Eccentric
Life time member
Life time member
Friday 11 May 2018: Home to Castle Donnington (164 miles)
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Kfest_10
Not the longest road trip by any stretch of the imagination and with riders coming to KFest from southern Spain, Belgium, Germany and, of course Ireland, I wasn't going to be a contender for the "most travelled" award. I might win the weirdest luggage award though as I had a K1100 tow bar secured to the rack on top of my top box. Olaf had ordered this a few weeks back and had it delivered to my home...all I had to do was get it up to him at Castle Donnington.
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Luckily I was travelling light - having opted for a comfortable hotel stay over a cold tent.

I left home about 07:45, a little earlier than I had originally planned as, despite taking the day off work, a meeting had been rescheduled for the Friday morning and I had to attend. Not the greatest way to start a wild weekend but, as Bristol was on my route, it wasn't a big deal. I normally ride into work much earlier and the roads are usually fairly quiet - going into Bristol at "rush hour" is less fun but no great drama. Whilst my load didn't extend beyond the panniers, I still had to be a little careful that it didn't come in contact with any wing mirrors etc.

Work meeting done and I was on my way again by 11:00. I had planned a cross country but fairly direct route up to Donnington. I was not in a rush and certainly didn't need to slog up the M4/M5/M42/M1 motorways. I had considered a longer, more scenic route looping up through Wales, but the days forecast had threatened heavy rain coming in from the west and I figured headed out that way would be just asking for it. Instead, I had planned a very pleasant ride up through the Cotswolds on mix of A and B roads. Most of my ride was along a route called the "Fosse Way" - this was the Roman's idea of a motorway back in the 1st century AD and is a pretty straight route from Exeter all the way up to Leicester. A few road planners and landowners over the last 2000 or so years had introduced some minor wiggles and junctions into this otherwise straight road, but there certainly were some lovely long straight sections, which made overtaking the few cars and trucks that blocked my path an absolute breeze. Keeping to a fairly moderate speed, with the exception of in one nondescript town, the traffic was extremely light and, on warm dry roads, I made excellent time up to Donnington.

Having parked up, I checked into the Jury's Inn and enjoyed a long overdue cup of tea. I knew that Ringfad, CorkBoy and a couple of others over from Ireland were staying in the same hotel, but I didn't know what time they would be arriving. Still, the hotel had a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and bar...I could pass the time quite comfortably. Not for the last time this weekend, I felt glad that I wasn't camping! Thoroughly cleansed and relaxed, I realised that it had been a long time since breakfast and I was starting to get hungry...but even one tasty curry and a pint on Guinness later there was still no sign of the Irish Eccentrics. Resorting to the dreaded antisocial media, I sent messages to both Olaf and Ringfad saying where I was and then settled back to watch some TV (I don't mind drinking a pint or two over dinner by myself, but there is something sad about drinking alone at a hotel bar). 

Finally, there was knock at my door - the Irish Eccentrics had arrived and it was back to the bar for some catching up and a few more of those velvety black sociable Guinness's. Just the 4 of them were staying at Jurys - Ringfad, Corkboy, Tom and Richard. It sounded like they had had a good ride over...but had lost Olaf and 88 somewhere along the way in deepest darkest Wales - Will having been last seen tearing off into the distance with a face full of fork oil (presumably to reduce the wind resistance on his bumblebee of a K1)! Outside, the night time temperature was heading down towards 5 or 6 deg C and the threatened rain had finally caught up with us. Yep, as Guinness number 4 slipped smoothly down in the warmth of the hotel bar amidst some amusing banter (something to do with donkeys), I was glad that I had gone for comfort over camping.

Saturday 12 May: KFest Day 1 - the dawning of the age of Legends
I was woken up at 06:12 by a text message - blurry eyed, I first thought it was Olaf replying to the text I had sent him the previous day (you tend to wake up un-naturally early when camping!) but was delighted to see that it was a message from Gaz and the Krew wishing us all a good day out. Nice touch guys and much appreciated.
 Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Text10
Now wide awake, I had a bit of a dilemma to start the day. The gates opened at 07:30 at Donnington - so what time to get there? The obvious answer was "some time after breakfast" however, we had agreed to meet in the restaurant at 09:00 to fuel up properly for the day ahead, so we were clearly not going to be the first through the gates that morning. While waiting, I took a stroll out to check that Heidi had been unmolested out in the carpark. The bike was still wet from the overnight rain, but the day had dawned bright and cloudy and the roads were already dry. The scrap iron cargo Olaf's tow bar was still securely attached. Fortunately, nobody had taken a shine to it overnight. I also spotted a soggy card tucked under the choke lever - it was KomandoAlicante's calling card. He had placed cards on each of the bikes to announce his arrival. I sent a text to his contact number to say hello but heard nothing back (until getting a text reply nearly a week after KFest - probably sent when he got back home to Spain!).Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_0410
The breakfast was worth the wait though and I ate myself  to a virtual standstill, all washed down with a few cups of coffee - well you just got to get value for money! Oh to be huddled over a little gas stove, sitting on the cold wet ground!! What's that saying? - Any damn fool can be uncomfortable!!

Breakfast done, it was kit up and ride the 2.5 miles to the Donnington race track and the much anticipated KFest meet up. The roads were surprisingly quiet - I had expected hoards of people converging on the place. Following Ringfad on his sleek black messanger of death K1, I wasn't entirely sure what the crack was with actually riding onto the site. Getting to the main gate, my ticket was checked...only to be asked where my bike pass was. Bike pass - what bike pass? Just as the gate staff were in the process of telling me where to go an park up (and walk in), Frank appeared with a handful of KFest ride-in stickers. Sticker suitably applied and I was in! We rode slowly around the trade tents and bike displays, making our way to the KFest stand. That felt pretty cool! 

The display bikes were carefully manoeuvred into the tent, the rest of us also-rans parked up in an allocated area immediately outside. A colour coordinated white K100RS with Martello sidecar was parked in the first row - no prizes for guessing that Sidecar Paul had made an appearance at KFest and, as ever, his bike was attracting a lot of attention from the passers by.

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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8930
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8931
...and my favourite a gleaming K1100RS!
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Inside the display tent, I met with the elusive 88 and Olaf (none the worse for their camp experience) and Sidecar Paul. Finally I was able to off load Olaf's precious cargo - delivery complete, now it was his problem to get it back to Ireland!

A great range of K's stood proudly in the tent - not every model, but certainly all the important ones! Most importantly, these were well ridden K bikes and not trailered show bikes.
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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8944
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8945
...and an awesome race bike
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8939

A little socialising done and it was time to take a wander about...discovering Motorbike Mike (and his better half) hidden around the corner doing some pre-race preparations. 
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8932
With Sidecar Pauls help, I also tracked down Slow Phil who was running very popular sidecar "taxi" rides on the Melbourne loop. Ed (of downunder renown) had generously sent me two "Evolution of the K Series" T-shirts to pass onto Slow Phil to auction off. I handed the shirts over to Phil - my second and final delivery job of the weekend was complete and the rest of the day was mine.

Now this was my first attendance at any event like this and I wasn't really sure what to expect. I'm not a great one for drooling over other peoples bikes nor am I able to hold my own in an in-depth discussion about the pros and cons of a particular feature or modification etc. Mostly I like just riding K bikes and not talking about them (or other brands), but there was definitely a buzz of excitement about the place and the scream of highly tuned two stroke engines and the deafening roar of throaty four stokes did create the right vibrant ambient atmosphere and, thanks to Franks huge efforts, there we were, right in the middle of it all, with race bikes all around us. Fantastic!!

Of course, we had to get ourselves track side too and actually get to see some of the qualifying sessions.Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8962
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8941

But of course, the real highlight of the first day was not just to watch other people having fun but to seize the opportunity to become immortalised as a legend and get to ride on the Melbourne section of track. To be able to do this we had to register ourselves as clinically insane, sign our lives away and most importantly leave details of our next of kin so that our twisted and battered remains could be collected later. Registration complete we were briefed on race track etiquette (and safety) - strictly no over taking! 

I asked Sidecar Paul to take what could possibly be the last ever picture of me - something for my daughters to remember me by, perhaps raising a wee dram of whisky and proudly thinking "My dad was a legend"
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8946
An hour later, and we were marshalled into the waiting area and ready to go...ready to become legends!

There was about a dozen K bikes in the line up and smaller group of some other riders. We waited, apprehensively, for the sidecars to clear the circuit and then to triumphant music (OK - so that was thanks to my GPS MP3 player and bluetooth headset rather than just blaring out of nowhere as it does in the movies) and under ominous black clouds we rolled out onto the track...and into the history books. A few of the other riders probably wondered why I had my GPS on to ride a small (but legendary) oval circuit - well you never can be too careful, can you!

Sorry about the camera wobble - probably the awesome speed I was travelling at...

After several heroic laps, we pulled over for a group photo. Someone, somewhere has the pics of us all sitting on our bikes in the K line up...but don't know who though (Frank - any ideas?) - it would be good to have a copy. Dismounting we then were free to take our own pics of the line up of legends.
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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8953







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Photos done, we solemnly, god like and in all our legendary awesomeness, we rode slowly back to the KFest tent.
With adrenaline still coursing through our veins, some of us returned to watch some more qualifying laps - from the real legends.

Having enjoyed a great day out, Ringfad (legend), Corkboy (not a legend), Tom (not a legend this time), Richard (another non legend) and I (legend) rode the short ride back to Jurys In to prepare for the KFest group dinner that evening. As we got near the hotel, the rain started, but not enough to dampen our enthusiasm and we got back dry enough. Back at the hotel, I found just enough time to have a quick swim, bubble in the jacuzzi, steam, shower and a pint of Guinness before our taxis arrived to take us to the Nags Head for the KFest dinner. The first taxi was booked in the name of Legend - only legends were allowed to ride in that one! Just as well we were going by taxi as the rain had now set in for the rest of the evening.

We were the last to arrive at the Nags Head and the chef was starting to fret! I'm sure Frank said 19:30. Anyway, the KFest crowd had taken over the place and completely filled the restaurant/function room. There was just enough time to pay our dues to Frank, get in  a round of drinks and sit down before the starters were brought out. What a great atmosphere - what a great event - a real fitting end to a top day. The food was good and plentiful and the beers/Guinness's flowed freely and I finally got to say hello to Komandoalicante. Having eaten our fill, Olaf paid tribute to all of Franks efforts and handed over a small donation to him. 

The meal done, people started to slowly to drift away. However, the staff were great and very friendly and in no hurry to throw us out into the dark, rainy night. As a result, the bar profits steadily went up and up and some excellent banter was enjoyed. For some unknown reason this particular table seemed to remain the longest and it was gone 01:00am before we finally left the place.
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Nags_h10
(Pic stolen from Facebook KFest pages): Clockwise from Left: Happy Jesus, Simon (Jesus's mate), Richard (Eccentric), Corkboy (Eccentric), Waitress, Me (Born Again Eccentric), Ringfad (Eccentric), Tom (Eccentric), Franktherat (KFest Organiser par excellence).

On getting back to Jury's Inn, we accidentally turned left and ended up in the bar and somehow managed to persuade the barman that his profits needed boosting too. Sensibly, I stayed on the Guinness and was not tempted by the Laphroig whisky that was making a determined effort to join the fun. It was gone 02:00am when we finally decided to call it a night!

Sunday 13 May 2018: KFest Day 2 - Race day (and a few sore heads)
Breakfast was definitely the most important priority - a big greasy breakfast has to the worlds best hangover cure. I was first down and tucking into a sumptuous feast and swilling strong black coffee long before the rest of the Eccentrics made it down. Richard and Corkboy were planning to skip the second day of KFest and were plotting a scenic ride back though Wales to the Holyhead ferry port. It was clear that there was no great rush for anyone to go anywhere. However, I was keen to see the start of the 4 hour endurance race which started at 11:30, so bid my farewells and returned to my room to get my stuff (I had already packed earlier). When I went to check out, I was told that I had already checked out and that they had just left a message on my phone to say I had left some stuff in my room! What the ?? I assured them that I hadn't checked out and that I had all my stuff and was checking out now. No idea who thinks that they had checked out earlier - but it sure wasn't me. They also dropped the surprise £37/night parking charge reduced to £5/night for a bike bombshell on me. They seemed genuinely surprised when I said that bikes don't normally pay to park and just rode around the barrier - but I (begrudgingly paid up anyway). No sense of humour!

I rode alone up to Donnington park in some very pleasant sunshine and, with my KFest ride in sticker proudly displayed, had no difficulty in getting on site again. I parked up in the KFest parking lot and was presented immediately with a bowl of Olaf's Christmas pudding. Just enough time to eat it before heading off to the race track. Yum!!
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I made my way to to one of the grandstands on the inside of the track with 88 and the Gent from Ghent (one of our Belgium K riders) in time to watch the warm up lap. Then it was time for the 4 hour endurance legends race to begin...just a short clip of the start (my memory card was nearly full - doh!)

It was hot in the stands, and obviously on the start finish line straight (Wheatcroft Straight), so after watching a few laps we made our way down to the trackside to go see some of the action on the corners. 88 and the G from G went one way and I went the other. I wandered across the grassy expanse in the centre of the track towards the far side of the track.

Short clip from Old Hairpin to Starkeys Bridge
 
It was a beautiful, sunny day and the fresh air, grassy smells, solitude and roar of the bikes was exactly what I needed to complete my recovery from the excesses of the previous (most excellent) evening. I continued to stroll around the track, following the line of the safety fence, stopping every now and then to watch the action on the corners. As I was standing at Copice, one rider failed to make the bend and skidded off on the gravel on the far side of the track - it didn't look good as he had his leg under the bike and was struggling to pull himself free. Fortunately, though he didn't seem to have too much damage to himself or the bike and, with the aid of the marshalls, was able to get his bike upright again and wheel it away from the track. Sadly, his race was over.

Starkey Bridge to Schwantz Curve
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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8964

McLeans to Copice
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8966

Fogarty Esses / Roberts
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Eventually, after about an hour of milling about, I made it back to the grandstand again - ready for a good long drink...of water!

I made my way back to the KFest tent area and watched/helped/hindered (delete as appropriate) Olaf fix his tow bar bracket to his K1100. Bit of a fiddly job, but successfully achieved (Olaf is clearly blessed with abundant patience and not a single expletive slipped his lips). Unfortunately, I wasn't paying attention when Charlie99 called Franks phone - good onya Charlie - must have been the very early hours with you down Brisbane way. Good that you got to talk to 88 though.

By early afternoon, I was getting footsore from all the standing about (it's exhausting doing nothing - I'm just not used to it) and decided to call it a day. I was aware that Ringfad and Tom were going to be travelling down my way (staying overnight in Bristol on Sunday night and then passing within a stones throw of my house on the Monday) and had thought about travelling down together. However, they were both intent on watching some more racing, and seeing Motorbike Mike in action again. That meant they wouldn't be setting out until very late afternoon. With a 3 - 4 you ride home, and an early start for work the next day, regrettably I decided to head off alone. If I had known their plans before hand - I could have taken the Monday off work and they could have stayed at my place, but you know what they say...two's company, three's a crowd and I respect that.

Bidding them farewell, I rolled slowly away from the KFest gathering and pointed Heidi south-west. My return route was a simple reversal of my journey north. It avoided a motorway slog again and, despite being a glorious Sunday, the route was still surprisingly traffic free. Good choice. Riding into the blazing sun, Heidi effortlessly munched up the miles and it was a thoroughly enjoyable ride home. Yes, it was good to see the race bikes, great to see the hustle and bustle of the paddock and the static displays and enjoy some excellent craic...but it is best to be on a K bike and blasting down a dry, quiet road!

I got home about 4 hours later at 18:00 having enjoyed a great ride, a fantastic weekend and some incredible company. 

A heartfelt thanks to Frank for doing all the hardworking and kat-herding and for organising a cracking KFest dinner. Thanks to the staff of the Nags Head for looking afters us so well. Thanks also to Robin and Mike for putting their extra-special K bikes out on the track and showing the likes of me what the K bikes really can do...and thanks to all forum members who made the effort to be there and cement the kameraderie, especially the Irish Eccentric contingent and for the sympathetic ride by the Aussie Krew. A top weekend, laden with more great memories.
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Kfest_11
Apparently, there may be a repeat gathering in 2019. Maybe some of the Krew or even CF could make it over - I see Charlie99 has responded "maybe" on FB! I just hope that I'm invited back!
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 212902



Last edited by Born Again Eccentric on Thu May 24, 2018 9:35 am; edited 1 time in total


__________________________________________________
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Uk-log10 Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Sco-lo15
                              Paul  Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 905546712

"Heidi" K100LT 1991 (Grey) (VIN 0190172 Engine No. 104EB 2590 2213) - 5th owner. January 2014 (34,000 - 82,818 miles and counting....)
"Gretel" K100LT 1989 (Silver Grey) (VIN 0177324 Engine No. 104EA 2789 2211) - 4th+ owner. September 2015 (82,684 miles and counting....). Cat C Insurance write-off rebuild Feb 17
"Donor" K100LT 1990 (Red)  (VIN 0178091 Engine gone to Dai) - 6th & final owner (crash write-off now donor bike).   June 2012 (73,000 miles) to November 2013 (89,500 miles)
    

92KK 84WW Olaf

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
Paul

A fantastic post!

Thanks for the read.


__________________________________________________
1992 K100LT 0193214 Bertha Blue 101,000 miles
1984 K100RT 0022575 Brutus Baja Red 578 bought 36,000 now 89,150 miles
1997 K1100LT 0188024 Wotan Mystic Red 689 58,645 now 106,950 miles Deceased.
1983 K100RS 0011157 Fricka 606 Alaska Blue 29,495 miles Damn K Pox Its a Bat outta Hell Now 58,200 miles. 
1996 K1100LT 0233004 Lohengrin Mystic Red 38,000 miles currently 51,800 miles.
1983 K100RS 0004449 Odette R100 colours 58,000 miles. Sprint fairing now 63,390 miles

Past:
1968 Yamaha 80 YG1
1971 Yamaha 125 YAS-1
1968 Honda 125 SS
1970 Honda CD 175
1973 Honda CB500-4
Honda CX 500
    

Stan

Stan
Life time member
Life time member
Paul, thank you so much for your wonderful summary of a great weekend. I was interested in the photo where the Ks were lined up, next to one another, on side stands. Consider leaving them like that for a few hours and then starting them all at the one time. If they are like my two bikes there would be a huge smoke screen created.
May the force, sorry, Ks be with you.


__________________________________________________
1983 K100 basic vin 0003960 colour red  GONE
1987 K100RT vin 0094685 colour, orange peel, sorry, pearl..GONE
F800R black
    

charlie99

charlie99
VIP
VIP
great write up of a fantastic gathering Paul

glad you had a great weekend of it


would this be one of the ones to include the riders ?

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 32266410

so many awesome pics shared on the fb site

which I have stolen ...erm ...borrowed quite a few

some memorable moments perhaps


Commando, Frank and Que , Frank sporting one of the designed T-shirts by our fearless leader  "crazy frog" for the donnington event

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 32349310


 

and some craic from a couple of noteworthy  visitors

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 32752010


Sidecar Paul and Commando ?

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 32313510

motorbike mike

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 32726410


just some of what I saw



Last edited by charlie99 on Thu May 24, 2018 7:54 am; edited 1 time in total


__________________________________________________
cheezy grin whilst riding, kinda bloke ....oh the joy !!!! ...... ( brick aviator )

'86 K100 RT..#0090401 ..."Gerty" ( Gertrude Von Clickandshift ) --------O%O
'86 k100 rs.. #######..  "Fred " (f(rame) red ) ( Fredrick leichtundschnell ) - -
bits and pieces from many kind friends across the k100 world ...with many thanks ..
1987 k100rs ########   "Red"  - (red sports rs TWB style )
1989 K100rt #009637   "Black Betty"  (naked rt ala Nigel , now sporting an rs main fairing )
    

komandoalicante

komandoalicante
Silver member
Silver member
Born Again Eccentric wrote:Friday 11 May 2018: Home to Castle Donnington (164 miles)
 I might win the weirdest luggage award though as I had a K1100 tow bar secured to the rack on top of my top box. Olaf had ordered this a few weeks back and had it delivered to my home...all I had to do was get it up to him at Castle Donnington.
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8925

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8926
I can give faith.
Friday night, when I went to dinner with Jaime to the hotel and saw the "Irons" on the bike, and it took us a few seconds to know what it was about.

In Spain is not allowed any type of modification of the motorcycle and only with a project of an engineer, you can make changes and paying a lot of money


__________________________________________________
SAK3 and komandoalicante is the same person

In March we made a International meeting  KEDADA ALICANTE of BMW motorcycle K in  Spain.

The last meeeting  March 2020

https://youtu.be/hfqxlGeEVsY
https://picasaweb.google.com/100417997445250027277
    

Ringfad

Ringfad
Life time member
Life time member
Hi Paul

Brilliant write up. It was so good I felt like I was there :-)

We did get to Filton after k fest and got on my second Concorde, to be informed the prototype was in Yeovilton so was on it on Tuesday. It turns out there are 18 Concordes to visit (I have now now done three).

Returned to Holyhead via the west cost of wales and dropped into the the eternal fire museum, full of engines of all types  Laughing

Arrangements were all last minute so did not want to annoy you but maybe another time as I still have not made it to the IOW, we did manage to see the needles from the Sammy Millar Motorcyle museum - we even managed to meet Sammy himself riding his trials bike at 84 !

In the Motorcylce museum they have a k100 cut out engine on display. I will post photo's later.


__________________________________________________
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Ir-log10

 ;BMW; K1 Black 1993 60K Km     ;BMW;  K1100RS Black 1996       ;BMW; K1 Blue 1990 25K Miles

 ;BMW; K1200RS Red
    

dee why

dee why
Gold member
Gold member
A fantastic write up Paul. Thank you for taking the time for us.

Well done to all the attendees, legends and non legends, racers, riders and eccentrics.

Gladdens the heart.

Cheers,

Dee


__________________________________________________
Dee Why

04/86 K100 VIN 0009479 Columbia Silver
    

Born Again Eccentric

Born Again Eccentric
Life time member
Life time member
Ringfad wrote: 
Arrangements were all last minute so did not want to annoy you but maybe another time as I still have not made it to the IOW...
Annoy me? No annoyance. I was only disappointed that you didn't let me know earlier that you were spending a few days down in my neck of the woods and didn't think to ask! You and Tom would have been more than welcome to stay at my place, just as you made me feel so welcome when I stayed with you in Dublin. But likewise, if you didn't want to (for any reason at all), then I'm not going to take offence.

One thing I have learned from this great forum and the great people that bring it to life is that, sometimes, you just got to ask. People can always say no (with or without reason) if they can't/don't want to help.

I have gatecrashed Ireland, Canada (NS) and Australia and, without wishing to be a burden on anybody, have simply announced my visit plans so that them that want/are able to can meet up to say hello, have a coffee/loffee or more...and I have reaped the rewards, big style, and rode/socialised and got to know some fabulous, generous and most welcoming people and explored some excellent parts of the world in the process. As ever local knowledge is often unbeatable. Just look what Bob T is doing down there in France (i've yet to gatecrash him)!

As far as I am concerned, my hospitality extends to all members of the forum and (with suitable intro from such members) also extends to immediate family (e.g. kids doing a bit of travelling, needing somewhere to de-mud themselves after Glastonbury etc. etc.) or friends travelling with them.

I've got Tackler staying for a few days next month during his France/UK visit - I was delighted he asked and am looking forward to his visit and having a natter over a few malt whiskies.

...and yes, you mentioned a trip to the Isle of Wight (or Pile of Shite as I rudely call it) - start planning!



Last edited by Born Again Eccentric on Fri May 25, 2018 10:45 am; edited 1 time in total (Reason for editing : Missed gatecrashing Nova Scotia - how could I not remember my memorable meet with CF?)


__________________________________________________
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Uk-log10 Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Sco-lo15
                              Paul  Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 905546712

"Heidi" K100LT 1991 (Grey) (VIN 0190172 Engine No. 104EB 2590 2213) - 5th owner. January 2014 (34,000 - 82,818 miles and counting....)
"Gretel" K100LT 1989 (Silver Grey) (VIN 0177324 Engine No. 104EA 2789 2211) - 4th+ owner. September 2015 (82,684 miles and counting....). Cat C Insurance write-off rebuild Feb 17
"Donor" K100LT 1990 (Red)  (VIN 0178091 Engine gone to Dai) - 6th & final owner (crash write-off now donor bike).   June 2012 (73,000 miles) to November 2013 (89,500 miles)
    

88

88
Life time member
Life time member
Smashing write up BAE! 


Not much to add by way of capturing the atmosphere. I do have " a funny thing happened on the way to the theatre" story tho' and the outcome sums up the Kamraderie.

Olaf and I , watching the weather, decided to jump on the Thursday night Ferry and get ahead of the predicted wet front coming in from the west. On board there were no other bikes and we had half a deck to ourselves.

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Ferry_10
 

Before departure I had intended to address a weepy fork seal. As I took the bodywork off the K1 to support it I decided to do an oil change. Draining the oil the first thing that met me was a drop of coolant...and I thought "Uh-oh"! A previous owner had very dilligently blocked the water pump tell tale hole. I had the spares to hand to fix it but I also had the pump off the K1100rs already refurbed so I took the soft option and fitted that.

No time left (work was busy) I put the body work back on and decided the fork would be OK with a top up. As I refitted the cap I  remeber that feeling of "better not over tighten that, it feels like the threads might strip".

Somewhere on the Welsh/English Border I hit a deep sunken manhole cover and shortly after, a second one. I  got a huge splash up on my visor. Luckily we were on a straight road and not hammering. As I rolled off the throttle thoughts were racing...."Bloody heck that was hard"...."damn big splash, manhole must have been flooded"....." That looks gooey...reddish.... What a Face....that's fork oil.....Bloody seal blown out!.....How'd it get up the inner fairing and over the tank bag?"   By then I had pulled in slowly and looked down at a hole where the fork filler cap was.... bolt gone!

Olaf hauled up behind me and I hopped off to inspect the damage. After cleaning my visor we rode slowly back to the point of impact and scoured the road but no bolt to be seen. A bit more cleaning up and I decided there was enough oil left in the fork to ride safely as Long as I didn't stand on the front brakes. I packed a strip of rag into the hole, put another over the lot and cable tied it around the fork and we were back under way. Further along the A50 I spotted some K's in a Lay by and swung in to see the other eccentrics having a stretch. Olaf, caught in the outside lane, could only wave as he rolled by.

On arrival at Donnington It was apparent the bike was going to need a very good clean to get the remaining oil off it so I started early on Saturday morning to clean it for the display. On the stand it sat looking good with only a telltale piece of cloth sticking out from under the dash pad. I set off to look for Ben Kingham, as Robin suggested he might be able to help with his race tools. No sign of Ben at the pits but I resolved not to be a nuisance during race preparations anyway. 

I was back at the bike looking at what I might do, taking advice from Motorbike Mike and Frank and removing the other cap bolt to use as a sample when a father and son from BRT Racing (They build stunning bikes) stopped to tease me about my matching yellow allen keys. In truth I bought the allen keys first so technically I bought the bike to match them  Smile.
Banter exchanged, being true motor fans, they stuck their heads in to see the problem and instantly invited me to follow them to their own display tent where they furnished me with Stainless steel nut bolt and Sockets large enough to remove the fork full top and seal it. A small top up from a bottle of fork oil bought at a trade stand, Some more help from Frank and BAE to reassemble and the K1 was going to make the parade lap. I waddled off briskly to get signed up with only 10 minutes to go to the 3 o'clock deadline.




We enjoyed a super ride back through Cheshire and North Wales on the sunny Monday and  met a few more bikes at the port as we were packed on to the fast ferry.

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Fast_f10


Thanks to the help from everybody the K1 was not just safe but comfortable for the return ride home  ......And yes the bolt is still in it (That's the problem with a quality Bodge - no rush  Very Happy !).

Many thanks to Wez Harte for the following pics which make the bike look better than in the flesh if I'm honest:

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 K1_k_f10

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 K1_1_k10


__________________________________________________
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Ir-log1188....May contain nuts!Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Ir-log11

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page." - St. Augustine from 1600 years ago & still true!

K1 - 1989 - AKA Titan (unique K1/K1100RS hybrid by Andreas Esterhammer)
K1100RS - 1995. AKA Rudolf Von Schmurf (in a million bits)
K100RS - 1991 AKA Ronnie. Cafe racer project bike
K75RTP - 1994
K75C - 1991 AKA Jim Beam. In boxes. 
K1100LT 1992 - AKA Big Red (gone)
K100LT - 1988 - AKA the Bullion brick. Should never have sold it.
    

Born Again Eccentric

Born Again Eccentric
Life time member
Life time member
Thanks all for the positive reviews - which, of course, were just one eccentric's recollections of his very minor part played in the proceedings. There will be so many other untold stories out there...but hopefully mine gave a good flavour of what turned out to be a cracking weekend.

88 - thanks for adding a chapter to the KFest post and filling in the entertaining details of your unfortunate oil excursion on the way to Donnington. Obviously, my mention of it was nothing more than hearsay, but it is great how the two stories inter-twine. It is also great to hear how the forum members and wider biking community rally round to help out with tools, parts, advice, opinions and a spare pair of hands when needed. Just love that colour/black & white pic of your K1(how do you do that?)...now there's a serious contender for the Forum 2019 calendar if I ever saw one!


__________________________________________________
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Uk-log10 Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Sco-lo15
                              Paul  Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 905546712

"Heidi" K100LT 1991 (Grey) (VIN 0190172 Engine No. 104EB 2590 2213) - 5th owner. January 2014 (34,000 - 82,818 miles and counting....)
"Gretel" K100LT 1989 (Silver Grey) (VIN 0177324 Engine No. 104EA 2789 2211) - 4th+ owner. September 2015 (82,684 miles and counting....). Cat C Insurance write-off rebuild Feb 17
"Donor" K100LT 1990 (Red)  (VIN 0178091 Engine gone to Dai) - 6th & final owner (crash write-off now donor bike).   June 2012 (73,000 miles) to November 2013 (89,500 miles)
    

Dai

Dai
Life time member
Life time member
Born Again Eccentric wrote:Just love that colour/black & white pic of your K1(how do you do that?)...now there's a serious contender for the Forum 2019 calendar if I ever saw one!
Post-processing with Photoshop... Twisted Evil Twisted Evil


__________________________________________________
1983 K100 naked upgraded to K100LT spec after spending time as an RS and an RT
1987 K100RT
Others...
1978 Moto Guzzi 850-T3, 1979 Moto Guzzi 850-T3 California,1993 Moto Guzzi 1100ie California
2020 Royal Enfield Bullet 500
    

sidecar paul

sidecar paul
Life time member
Life time member
Thanks for the write-ups Paul and Will, it reminded me of a great day meeting with various forum members that were previously just names on my computer, even though I already knew them well, it was good to meet them in the flesh.

I don't know what I've done to deserve it but I was the fortunate recipient of one of Olaf's legendary Christmas puddings, thanks Olaf, it kept my sidecar wheel firmly on the ground all the way home! Roll on Christmas, if I can resist eating it before then.

Cheers,
Paul.


__________________________________________________
'84 K100RS (0014643) (owned since '85), 86 K100RS (0018891) with Martello sidecar (built as an outfit in '88),
'51 Vincent (since '67),'72 Montesa Cota (from new), '87 Honda RS125R NF4 (bought 2015) 
....No CARS never ever!
    

92KK 84WW Olaf

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
Paul

It was a real pleasure to meet up and I recall your gas tank cap hole saving me when I couldn't get the key to turn in the RT. Enjoy the pudding and tuck in if you want, I can send some more at Christmas. Our postal rates are a fraction of the UK rates so plenty go in the mail.

There's another one heading for France for a meet up with Crazy Frog!! Like yours it is travelling on a K!


__________________________________________________
1992 K100LT 0193214 Bertha Blue 101,000 miles
1984 K100RT 0022575 Brutus Baja Red 578 bought 36,000 now 89,150 miles
1997 K1100LT 0188024 Wotan Mystic Red 689 58,645 now 106,950 miles Deceased.
1983 K100RS 0011157 Fricka 606 Alaska Blue 29,495 miles Damn K Pox Its a Bat outta Hell Now 58,200 miles. 
1996 K1100LT 0233004 Lohengrin Mystic Red 38,000 miles currently 51,800 miles.
1983 K100RS 0004449 Odette R100 colours 58,000 miles. Sprint fairing now 63,390 miles

Past:
1968 Yamaha 80 YG1
1971 Yamaha 125 YAS-1
1968 Honda 125 SS
1970 Honda CD 175
1973 Honda CB500-4
Honda CX 500
    

Crazy Frog

Crazy Frog
admin
admin
92KK 84WW Olaf wrote:There's another one heading for France for a meet up with Crazy Frog!! Like yours it is travelling on a K!
After two weeks of uncertainty, the pilot strike from Westjet Airlines was called off and I will be able to fly to Europe.
I certainly cannot miss a "BIG" serving of Christmas pudding in June.
I am sure it will be a lot of pictures and stories to be posted (I may even borrow a rice cooker bike to meet Olaf and Will).


__________________________________________________
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Frog15Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Logo2101986 k75, 1985 K100rt, 1985 K100rt/EML GT2 sidecar, 1999 K1200lt/Hannigan Astro Sport sidecar.
    

franktherat

franktherat
active member
active member
Born Again Eccentric wrote:Friday 11 May 2018: Home to Castle Donnington (164 miles)
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Kfest_10
Not the longest road trip by any stretch of the imagination and with riders coming to KFest from southern Spain, Belgium, Germany and, of course Ireland, I wasn't going to be a contender for the "most travelled" award. I might win the weirdest luggage award though as I had a K1100 tow bar secured to the rack on top of my top box. Olaf had ordered this a few weeks back and had it delivered to my home...all I had to do was get it up to him at Castle Donnington.
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8925

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8926
Luckily I was travelling light - having opted for a comfortable hotel stay over a cold tent.

I left home about 07:45, a little earlier than I had originally planned as, despite taking the day off work, a meeting had been rescheduled for the Friday morning and I had to attend. Not the greatest way to start a wild weekend but, as Bristol was on my route, it wasn't a big deal. I normally ride into work much earlier and the roads are usually fairly quiet - going into Bristol at "rush hour" is less fun but no great drama. Whilst my load didn't extend beyond the panniers, I still had to be a little careful that it didn't come in contact with any wing mirrors etc.

Work meeting done and I was on my way again by 11:00. I had planned a cross country but fairly direct route up to Donnington. I was not in a rush and certainly didn't need to slog up the M4/M5/M42/M1 motorways. I had considered a longer, more scenic route looping up through Wales, but the days forecast had threatened heavy rain coming in from the west and I figured headed out that way would be just asking for it. Instead, I had planned a very pleasant ride up through the Cotswolds on mix of A and B roads. Most of my ride was along a route called the "Fosse Way" - this was the Roman's idea of a motorway back in the 1st century AD and is a pretty straight route from Exeter all the way up to Leicester. A few road planners and landowners over the last 2000 or so years had introduced some minor wiggles and junctions into this otherwise straight road, but there certainly were some lovely long straight sections, which made overtaking the few cars and trucks that blocked my path an absolute breeze. Keeping to a fairly moderate speed, with the exception of in one nondescript town, the traffic was extremely light and, on warm dry roads, I made excellent time up to Donnington.

Having parked up, I checked into the Jury's Inn and enjoyed a long overdue cup of tea. I knew that Ringfad, CorkBoy and a couple of others over from Ireland were staying in the same hotel, but I didn't know what time they would be arriving. Still, the hotel had a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and bar...I could pass the time quite comfortably. Not for the last time this weekend, I felt glad that I wasn't camping! Thoroughly cleansed and relaxed, I realised that it had been a long time since breakfast and I was starting to get hungry...but even one tasty curry and a pint on Guinness later there was still no sign of the Irish Eccentrics. Resorting to the dreaded antisocial media, I sent messages to both Olaf and Ringfad saying where I was and then settled back to watch some TV (I don't mind drinking a pint or two over dinner by myself, but there is something sad about drinking alone at a hotel bar). 

Finally, there was knock at my door - the Irish Eccentrics had arrived and it was back to the bar for some catching up and a few more of those velvety black sociable Guinness's. Just the 4 of them were staying at Jurys - Ringfad, Corkboy, Tom and Richard. It sounded like they had had a good ride over...but had lost Olaf and 88 somewhere along the way in deepest darkest Wales - Will having been last seen tearing off into the distance with a face full of fork oil (presumably to reduce the wind resistance on his bumblebee of a K1)! Outside, the night time temperature was heading down towards 5 or 6 deg C and the threatened rain had finally caught up with us. Yep, as Guinness number 4 slipped smoothly down in the warmth of the hotel bar amidst some amusing banter (something to do with donkeys), I was glad that I had gone for comfort over camping.

Saturday 12 May: KFest Day 1 - the dawning of the age of Legends
I was woken up at 06:12 by a text message - blurry eyed, I first thought it was Olaf replying to the text I had sent him the previous day (you tend to wake up un-naturally early when camping!) but was delighted to see that it was a message from Gaz and the Krew wishing us all a good day out. Nice touch guys and much appreciated.
 Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Text10
Now wide awake, I had a bit of a dilemma to start the day. The gates opened at 07:30 at Donnington - so what time to get there? The obvious answer was "some time after breakfast" however, we had agreed to meet in the restaurant at 09:00 to fuel up properly for the day ahead, so we were clearly not going to be the first through the gates that morning. While waiting, I took a stroll out to check that Heidi had been unmolested out in the carpark. The bike was still wet from the overnight rain, but the day had dawned bright and cloudy and the roads were already dry. The scrap iron cargo Olaf's tow bar was still securely attached. Fortunately, nobody had taken a shine to it overnight. I also spotted a soggy card tucked under the choke lever - it was KomandoAlicante's calling card. He had placed cards on each of the bikes to announce his arrival. I sent a text to his contact number to say hello but heard nothing back (until getting a text reply nearly a week after KFest - probably sent when he got back home to Spain!).Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_0410
The breakfast was worth the wait though and I ate myself  to a virtual standstill, all washed down with a few cups of coffee - well you just got to get value for money! Oh to be huddled over a little gas stove, sitting on the cold wet ground!! What's that saying? - Any damn fool can be uncomfortable!!

Breakfast done, it was kit up and ride the 2.5 miles to the Donnington race track and the much anticipated KFest meet up. The roads were surprisingly quiet - I had expected hoards of people converging on the place. Following Ringfad on his sleek black messanger of death K1, I wasn't entirely sure what the crack was with actually riding onto the site. Getting to the main gate, my ticket was checked...only to be asked where my bike pass was. Bike pass - what bike pass? Just as the gate staff were in the process of telling me where to go an park up (and walk in), Frank appeared with a handful of KFest ride-in stickers. Sticker suitably applied and I was in! We rode slowly around the trade tents and bike displays, making our way to the KFest stand. That felt pretty cool! 

The display bikes were carefully manoeuvred into the tent, the rest of us also-rans parked up in an allocated area immediately outside. A colour coordinated white K100RS with Martello sidecar was parked in the first row - no prizes for guessing that Sidecar Paul had made an appearance at KFest and, as ever, his bike was attracting a lot of attention from the passers by.

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8933

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8930
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8931
...and my favourite a gleaming K1100RS!
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8935
Inside the display tent, I met with the elusive 88 and Olaf (none the worse for their camp experience) and Sidecar Paul. Finally I was able to off load Olaf's precious cargo - delivery complete, now it was his problem to get it back to Ireland!

A great range of K's stood proudly in the tent - not every model, but certainly all the important ones! Most importantly, these were well ridden K bikes and not trailered show bikes.
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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8944
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8945
...and an awesome race bike
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A little socialising done and it was time to take a wander about...discovering Motorbike Mike (and his better half) hidden around the corner doing some pre-race preparations. 
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With Sidecar Pauls help, I also tracked down Slow Phil who was running very popular sidecar "taxi" rides on the Melbourne loop. Ed (of downunder renown) had generously sent me two "Evolution of the K Series" T-shirts to pass onto Slow Phil to auction off. I handed the shirts over to Phil - my second and final delivery job of the weekend was complete and the rest of the day was mine.

Now this was my first attendance at any event like this and I wasn't really sure what to expect. I'm not a great one for drooling over other peoples bikes nor am I able to hold my own in an in-depth discussion about the pros and cons of a particular feature or modification etc. Mostly I like just riding K bikes and not talking about them (or other brands), but there was definitely a buzz of excitement about the place and the scream of highly tuned two stroke engines and the deafening roar of throaty four stokes did create the right vibrant ambient atmosphere and, thanks to Franks huge efforts, there we were, right in the middle of it all, with race bikes all around us. Fantastic!!

Of course, we had to get ourselves track side too and actually get to see some of the qualifying sessions.Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8962
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But of course, the real highlight of the first day was not just to watch other people having fun but to seize the opportunity to become immortalised as a legend and get to ride on the Melbourne section of track. To be able to do this we had to register ourselves as clinically insane, sign our lives away and most importantly leave details of our next of kin so that our twisted and battered remains could be collected later. Registration complete we were briefed on race track etiquette (and safety) - strictly no over taking! 

I asked Sidecar Paul to take what could possibly be the last ever picture of me - something for my daughters to remember me by, perhaps raising a wee dram of whisky and proudly thinking "My dad was a legend"
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8946
An hour later, and we were marshalled into the waiting area and ready to go...ready to become legends!

There was about a dozen K bikes in the line up and smaller group of some other riders. We waited, apprehensively, for the sidecars to clear the circuit and then to triumphant music (OK - so that was thanks to my GPS MP3 player and bluetooth headset rather than just blaring out of nowhere as it does in the movies) and under ominous black clouds we rolled out onto the track...and into the history books. A few of the other riders probably wondered why I had my GPS on to ride a small (but legendary) oval circuit - well you never can be too careful, can you!

Sorry about the camera wobble - probably the awesome speed I was travelling at...

After several heroic laps, we pulled over for a group photo. Someone, somewhere has the pics of us all sitting on our bikes in the K line up...but don't know who though (Frank - any ideas?) - it would be good to have a copy. Dismounting we then were free to take our own pics of the line up of legends.
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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8953







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Photos done, we solemnly, god like and in all our legendary awesomeness, we rode slowly back to the KFest tent.
With adrenaline still coursing through our veins, some of us returned to watch some more qualifying laps - from the real legends.

Having enjoyed a great day out, Ringfad (legend), Corkboy (not a legend), Tom (not a legend this time), Richard (another non legend) and I (legend) rode the short ride back to Jurys In to prepare for the KFest group dinner that evening. As we got near the hotel, the rain started, but not enough to dampen our enthusiasm and we got back dry enough. Back at the hotel, I found just enough time to have a quick swim, bubble in the jacuzzi, steam, shower and a pint of Guinness before our taxis arrived to take us to the Nags Head for the KFest dinner. The first taxi was booked in the name of Legend - only legends were allowed to ride in that one! Just as well we were going by taxi as the rain had now set in for the rest of the evening.

We were the last to arrive at the Nags Head and the chef was starting to fret! I'm sure Frank said 19:30. Anyway, the KFest crowd had taken over the place and completely filled the restaurant/function room. There was just enough time to pay our dues to Frank, get in  a round of drinks and sit down before the starters were brought out. What a great atmosphere - what a great event - a real fitting end to a top day. The food was good and plentiful and the beers/Guinness's flowed freely and I finally got to say hello to Komandoalicante. Having eaten our fill, Olaf paid tribute to all of Franks efforts and handed over a small donation to him. 

The meal done, people started to slowly to drift away. However, the staff were great and very friendly and in no hurry to throw us out into the dark, rainy night. As a result, the bar profits steadily went up and up and some excellent banter was enjoyed. For some unknown reason this particular table seemed to remain the longest and it was gone 01:00am before we finally left the place.
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Nags_h10
(Pic stolen from Facebook KFest pages): Clockwise from Left: Happy Jesus, Simon (Jesus's mate), Richard (Eccentric), Corkboy (Eccentric), Waitress, Me (Born Again Eccentric), Ringfad (Eccentric), Tom (Eccentric), Franktherat (KFest Organiser par excellence).

On getting back to Jury's Inn, we accidentally turned left and ended up in the bar and somehow managed to persuade the barman that his profits needed boosting too. Sensibly, I stayed on the Guinness and was not tempted by the Laphroig whisky that was making a determined effort to join the fun. It was gone 02:00am when we finally decided to call it a night!

Sunday 13 May 2018: KFest Day 2 - Race day (and a few sore heads)
Breakfast was definitely the most important priority - a big greasy breakfast has to the worlds best hangover cure. I was first down and tucking into a sumptuous feast and swilling strong black coffee long before the rest of the Eccentrics made it down. Richard and Corkboy were planning to skip the second day of KFest and were plotting a scenic ride back though Wales to the Holyhead ferry port. It was clear that there was no great rush for anyone to go anywhere. However, I was keen to see the start of the 4 hour endurance race which started at 11:30, so bid my farewells and returned to my room to get my stuff (I had already packed earlier). When I went to check out, I was told that I had already checked out and that they had just left a message on my phone to say I had left some stuff in my room! What the ?? I assured them that I hadn't checked out and that I had all my stuff and was checking out now. No idea who thinks that they had checked out earlier - but it sure wasn't me. They also dropped the surprise £37/night parking charge reduced to £5/night for a bike bombshell on me. They seemed genuinely surprised when I said that bikes don't normally pay to park and just rode around the barrier - but I (begrudgingly paid up anyway). No sense of humour!

I rode alone up to Donnington park in some very pleasant sunshine and, with my KFest ride in sticker proudly displayed, had no difficulty in getting on site again. I parked up in the KFest parking lot and was presented immediately with a bowl of Olaf's Christmas pudding. Just enough time to eat it before heading off to the race track. Yum!!
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Donnin10

I made my way to to one of the grandstands on the inside of the track with 88 and the Gent from Ghent (one of our Belgium K riders) in time to watch the warm up lap. Then it was time for the 4 hour endurance legends race to begin...just a short clip of the start (my memory card was nearly full - doh!)

It was hot in the stands, and obviously on the start finish line straight (Wheatcroft Straight), so after watching a few laps we made our way down to the trackside to go see some of the action on the corners. 88 and the G from G went one way and I went the other. I wandered across the grassy expanse in the centre of the track towards the far side of the track.

Short clip from Old Hairpin to Starkeys Bridge
 
It was a beautiful, sunny day and the fresh air, grassy smells, solitude and roar of the bikes was exactly what I needed to complete my recovery from the excesses of the previous (most excellent) evening. I continued to stroll around the track, following the line of the safety fence, stopping every now and then to watch the action on the corners. As I was standing at Copice, one rider failed to make the bend and skidded off on the gravel on the far side of the track - it didn't look good as he had his leg under the bike and was struggling to pull himself free. Fortunately, though he didn't seem to have too much damage to himself or the bike and, with the aid of the marshalls, was able to get his bike upright again and wheel it away from the track. Sadly, his race was over.

Starkey Bridge to Schwantz Curve
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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8964

McLeans to Copice
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Img_8966

Fogarty Esses / Roberts
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Eventually, after about an hour of milling about, I made it back to the grandstand again - ready for a good long drink...of water!

I made my way back to the KFest tent area and watched/helped/hindered (delete as appropriate) Olaf fix his tow bar bracket to his K1100. Bit of a fiddly job, but successfully achieved (Olaf is clearly blessed with abundant patience and not a single expletive slipped his lips). Unfortunately, I wasn't paying attention when Charlie99 called Franks phone - good onya Charlie - must have been the very early hours with you down Brisbane way. Good that you got to talk to 88 though.

By early afternoon, I was getting footsore from all the standing about (it's exhausting doing nothing - I'm just not used to it) and decided to call it a day. I was aware that Ringfad and Tom were going to be travelling down my way (staying overnight in Bristol on Sunday night and then passing within a stones throw of my house on the Monday) and had thought about travelling down together. However, they were both intent on watching some more racing, and seeing Motorbike Mike in action again. That meant they wouldn't be setting out until very late afternoon. With a 3 - 4 you ride home, and an early start for work the next day, regrettably I decided to head off alone. If I had known their plans before hand - I could have taken the Monday off work and they could have stayed at my place, but you know what they say...two's company, three's a crowd and I respect that.

Bidding them farewell, I rolled slowly away from the KFest gathering and pointed Heidi south-west. My return route was a simple reversal of my journey north. It avoided a motorway slog again and, despite being a glorious Sunday, the route was still surprisingly traffic free. Good choice. Riding into the blazing sun, Heidi effortlessly munched up the miles and it was a thoroughly enjoyable ride home. Yes, it was good to see the race bikes, great to see the hustle and bustle of the paddock and the static displays and enjoy some excellent craic...but it is best to be on a K bike and blasting down a dry, quiet road!

I got home about 4 hours later at 18:00 having enjoyed a great ride, a fantastic weekend and some incredible company. 

A heartfelt thanks to Frank for doing all the hardworking and kat-herding and for organising a cracking KFest dinner. Thanks to the staff of the Nags Head for looking afters us so well. Thanks also to Robin and Mike for putting their extra-special K bikes out on the track and showing the likes of me what the K bikes really can do...and thanks to all forum members who made the effort to be there and cement the kameraderie, especially the Irish Eccentric contingent and for the sympathetic ride by the Aussie Krew. A top weekend, laden with more great memories.
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Kfest_11
Apparently, there may be a repeat gathering in 2019. Maybe some of the Krew or even CF could make it over - I see Charlie99 has responded "maybe" on FB! I just hope that I'm invited back!
Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 212902

    

Crazy Frog

Crazy Frog
admin
admin
Nice write up Paul.
If Charlie's coming in 2019, I will be there too.
Just putting a little bit of pressure on Charlie. Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 44271


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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Frog15Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Logo2101986 k75, 1985 K100rt, 1985 K100rt/EML GT2 sidecar, 1999 K1200lt/Hannigan Astro Sport sidecar.
    

Born Again Eccentric

Born Again Eccentric
Life time member
Life time member
Crazy Frog wrote:Nice write up Paul.
If Charlie's coming in 2019, I will be there too.
Just putting a little bit of pressure on Charlie. Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 44271
Thanks Bert,

 ...funny thing, I had a feeling in my bones that you might have been making a surprise guest appearance at KFest this year (being kept a closely guarded secret by Frank to prevent flash mobs crowding you). Turns out the funny feeling was nothing more than the plate and pins holding my bits of bone together!!
affraid Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 44271


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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Uk-log10 Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Sco-lo15
                              Paul  Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 905546712

"Heidi" K100LT 1991 (Grey) (VIN 0190172 Engine No. 104EB 2590 2213) - 5th owner. January 2014 (34,000 - 82,818 miles and counting....)
"Gretel" K100LT 1989 (Silver Grey) (VIN 0177324 Engine No. 104EA 2789 2211) - 4th+ owner. September 2015 (82,684 miles and counting....). Cat C Insurance write-off rebuild Feb 17
"Donor" K100LT 1990 (Red)  (VIN 0178091 Engine gone to Dai) - 6th & final owner (crash write-off now donor bike).   June 2012 (73,000 miles) to November 2013 (89,500 miles)
    

Crazy Frog

Crazy Frog
admin
admin
Born Again Eccentric wrote: ...funny thing, I had a feeling in my bones that you might have been making a surprise guest appearance at KFest this year
I have to tell you that I was thinking about it, but it was too close to my next trip to Europe (tomorrow).
We will have a mini K-Fest with Will and Olaf (and maybe others) in France. I will meet them around the 10 of June.


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Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Frog15Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 Logo2101986 k75, 1985 K100rt, 1985 K100rt/EML GT2 sidecar, 1999 K1200lt/Hannigan Astro Sport sidecar.
    

charlie99

charlie99
VIP
VIP
some memorabilia arrived late yesterday , thanks heaps Frank

will be in a special place around this shack

cheers

Ks at Endurance Legends Donington Park 12 13 May 2018? - Page 3 20180610


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cheezy grin whilst riding, kinda bloke ....oh the joy !!!! ...... ( brick aviator )

'86 K100 RT..#0090401 ..."Gerty" ( Gertrude Von Clickandshift ) --------O%O
'86 k100 rs.. #######..  "Fred " (f(rame) red ) ( Fredrick leichtundschnell ) - -
bits and pieces from many kind friends across the k100 world ...with many thanks ..
1987 k100rs ########   "Red"  - (red sports rs TWB style )
1989 K100rt #009637   "Black Betty"  (naked rt ala Nigel , now sporting an rs main fairing )
    

komandoalicante

komandoalicante
Silver member
Silver member
Good day

I've reread Paul's thread.

How I have felt not being able to have a conversation with the rest of the participants

I need to hear a lot more English.

I have a thorn in my heart that I hope that next year can pull it out.

Thanks again to everyone and especially to Frank


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SAK3 and komandoalicante is the same person

In March we made a International meeting  KEDADA ALICANTE of BMW motorcycle K in  Spain.

The last meeeting  March 2020

https://youtu.be/hfqxlGeEVsY
https://picasaweb.google.com/100417997445250027277
    

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