Hello All,
As part of this ride we depend on the goodwill of landowners and we do not assume it is a right to cross private land. We have approached all landowners we have identified from records we can access but have not heard or had all confirmed.
PLEASE do not assume you have the right to cross private land because a line appears on a Google map.
If you have concerns please contact us immediately as our records are not always accurate. We appreciate any information which allows us to properly contact landowners.
Relying on information and working remotely from the North Island means we may not get it right and in the first instance we must respect all landowners rights.
We request that riders do not ride any sections of private land prior to permission being granted.
Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
Bike packing/gravel adventure through the South Island of New Zealand
Thursday, 19 December 2013
Friday, 13 December 2013
To GPS or not to GPS, that is the question
The ethos of the Great Southern Brevet is self-sufficiency. This applies to navigation (as well as food, water and bikes repairs!)
Last time round we jotted down some tips on navigation (Click here) and advice on GPS use. With the improvement and availability of the technology it remains a vexing question whether to use a GPS or not.
A compass and paper map remain the most reliable method of navigation but arguably life with a GPS is easier. When they work, they work well. They make for one less stress on your ride.
They can be had for as little as $NZ100 for the basic model. These are capable of a basic map (monochrome) and the course. They can show when you veer off course and how far you have to go.
The colour models with increased memory can sport full topographic maps and are generally easier to use, but come at a price.
Power is a big consideration with a GPS. No power = no route! You can use power saving modes to extend battery life, and/or use it sparingly (would you really need a GPS to follow the Lake Hawea track?). Units with replaceable batteries allow you to carry a backup set to get you out of a bind while rechargeable units tend to require good discipline managing power consumption.
A copy of the cue sheet and a 1:250,000 map are always good backup, but if you want to up-tech, then you better get it on your Christmas list as time is running out!
Not sure going this small works?
Last time round we jotted down some tips on navigation (Click here) and advice on GPS use. With the improvement and availability of the technology it remains a vexing question whether to use a GPS or not.
A compass and paper map remain the most reliable method of navigation but arguably life with a GPS is easier. When they work, they work well. They make for one less stress on your ride.
They can be had for as little as $NZ100 for the basic model. These are capable of a basic map (monochrome) and the course. They can show when you veer off course and how far you have to go.
 |
| Thank goodness the scenery is in colour! |
The colour models with increased memory can sport full topographic maps and are generally easier to use, but come at a price.
Power is a big consideration with a GPS. No power = no route! You can use power saving modes to extend battery life, and/or use it sparingly (would you really need a GPS to follow the Lake Hawea track?). Units with replaceable batteries allow you to carry a backup set to get you out of a bind while rechargeable units tend to require good discipline managing power consumption.
A copy of the cue sheet and a 1:250,000 map are always good backup, but if you want to up-tech, then you better get it on your Christmas list as time is running out!
Not sure going this small works?
 |
| Now where are my glasses? |
Wednesday, 11 December 2013
Time to Walk the Talk!
OK, so you have been telling everyone around the water cooler that will listen, that you are about to embark on a major pain fest through the rugged central South Island of New Zealand in the New Year. Now comes the time to walk the talk!
Yes, time to get your details in so we can see how many riders will be enjoying the January sunshine in Lake Tekapo before setting off for an adventure.
We may have to limit numbers as it is a challenge to get enough trackers at the moment and although not expecting large numbers we do need to know as soon as possible. If you have your own SPOT then there should be no issue, just fill out the details on the form.
If you are not quite sure then drop us a line first and we can help with any information you may be missing. Details will be added to the site about the new course in earnest over the next couple of weeks in time for reading during your Christmas Break.
WARNING: Clicking on the link below may result in discovering you have parts that you never knew could hurt so much while sitting down (on a small surface attached to two wheels that is!).
Registration Form for the Great Southern Brevet 2014
Yes, time to get your details in so we can see how many riders will be enjoying the January sunshine in Lake Tekapo before setting off for an adventure.
We may have to limit numbers as it is a challenge to get enough trackers at the moment and although not expecting large numbers we do need to know as soon as possible. If you have your own SPOT then there should be no issue, just fill out the details on the form.
If you are not quite sure then drop us a line first and we can help with any information you may be missing. Details will be added to the site about the new course in earnest over the next couple of weeks in time for reading during your Christmas Break.
WARNING: Clicking on the link below may result in discovering you have parts that you never knew could hurt so much while sitting down (on a small surface attached to two wheels that is!).
Registration Form for the Great Southern Brevet 2014
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