always have a bit of fizz in the blood when approaching Hampton Downs . But especially when going there for a motorcycle event . I gate-crashed my way into this Aprilia Day and Launch party by asking the boss if I could go – simply because I have never recovered from my fascination with Aprilia superbikes . Fortunately , Kiwi Rider publisher Veg recognises unhealthy habits and endorses them . Next step , a call to the boss at Aprilia NZ , “ Yep come along , can ’ t promise you a ride though ...” That ’ s alright , I thought , no problem , the riders today get to run for a few short minutes , but tomorrow an RS457 with all the trick kit was going to be delivered to my house for the weekend . I couldn ’ t lose either way . As I weaved past the third cop with a speed gun since leaving the Bombays , I flitted down

SH1 outside the drag strip at legal speeds and copped the smell of smoke in the air . Clouds of yellowish grey were looming on high , and I remembered that the nearby Whangamarino wetlands were on fire across a 10-kilometre front . However , I could see bikes circulating on the Hampton slopes , and my attention moved from fire to frivolity . The Aprilia Track-Riding Day was open to those who own , love , and ride Aprilias , and the 100-bike limit was rapidly superseded , with another few brought along for the inevitable drop-offs . 109 answered the call immediately . Aprilia NZ was also launching the brand-new offering from Aprilia , the RS457 , on the same day , and the whole package allowed for viewing and test rides , morning and afternoon tea and a superb lunch put on by Flying Trestles - the

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