PETE ’ S PEOPLE
DAY THREE - TURANGI TO RAGLAN The plan was up the centre of the island to Ohinewai and then across to Raglan . We wanted a soak in the Waingaro Hot Pools , but apparently they were closed until further notice . The intense rain necessitated a change of plan . We packed up again , long wet B and C roads with lichen , green bits and tar strips aplenty . Up the western arm of the lake , through to Kihikihi , then up to Whatawhata and Raglan . It pissed down . We were soaked in spite of excellent wet weather gear - there are some rains that just defy rubber and weatherproofing . After a while , as long as you aren ’ t cold , it doesn ’ t matter . Tony and Megan are very aware of the latest tech , both for safety and for comfort . Tony had purchased two electric riding jackets that plug into the bike . With three heat settings from warm to microwave , he and Megan were toasty . I asked Tony about his care and concern for Megan , he reported she ’ s fiercely independent ,
Tony Drayton
John Shepherd and rides on her own terms . He merely helps her achieve her dreams when he can . It ’ s more than that , but I wasn ’ t going to argue . Tony bought his first bike in ‘ 73 or ’ 75 - in the course of our chat he worried about whether I was being accurate enough with fact . He worked holidays , weekends , and after school to purchase his first dream bike , a Suzuki TS125 . At age 15 . He bought the bike and got it home . Never having ridden one before . No licence , yet . Chats with Tony reveal surprises for you all the time . It ’ s one of his great charms . His bikes are always concourse condition and his BMW sits inside his house , not the garage , and he says every guy that enters the house is immediately envious , then stunned , when they see Megan ’ s in the lounge area . These guys LOVE their bikes . Tony is a perfectionist ... there ... I ’ ve said it . He is specific about his wants and the BMW fits
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