Kruzer: RES Durian Trip

The month of June signifies different things for different groups of people.

For the kids, June is a month of sheer joy and fun. For the families, June unravels exciting travel plans. For the working community, it signifies the closing of two quarters (and perhaps the issuance of bonuses for some).

For Kruzer, the month of June is as literal as it gets. To us, it simply means that half the year has passed, or half the year remains. Whatever. (Whichever glass-is-half-empty-or-glass-is-half-full perspective that suits you best)

But before you think we are a boring bunch, hang on.

We know what June really means. It means, like always, a month to go for a short / long riding trip, indulge in an gluttony experience, and most importantly, feast on a glorious spread of bitter-sweet durians.

However, since we had an overnight trip in end April to early May, our June ride was a day trip to the state of Johor Malaysia.

It was nice to see many early birds when dear and I arrived at GP Esso at 09:30am. Just to clarify, we weren't late. We were punctual.

Following the itinerary, we moved off from GP Esso at 10:03am. Here's a picture of Tony waving to the camera while riding behind us.

Kids - do not try this when cycling. Or motorcycling. Or Ever.

Traveling through the little roads of Gelang Patah town, we arrived at our first food destination - Pappa Rich - for brunch.

Pappa Rich is known for their Otah and Toast Bread, which explains why I always order a plate of Otah every time I come.

Since there was some time to spare, we had a slow and relaxing brunch, accompanied by interesting conversations.

By the time we decide to leave for our next food destination, it was nearly noon. Fortunately, the sky was cloudy and temperatures were still bearable for us to ride in.

Along the way, the cloudy skies started getting darker and heavier. Before we knew it, it started raining. Stopping at the road shoulder of the North South Highway, we quickly put on our rain gears before continuing our journey.

Arriving at Pekan Nanas, Isaac led us to Uncle Lim's Durian Farm as per the address stated in their Facebook Page. However, we couldn't find the place when we arrived. After a few u-turns, we decided to stop by the road and contact Uncle Lim.

Well, it turns out, Uncle Lim's Durian Farm address is inaccurate!

Regardless, we managed to locate his durian farm, thanks to the malay chap from Uncle Lim's Durian Farm, who provided clearer instructions to Isaac over the phone.

Having parked our bikes, we gathered at the eating area and started our durian feast.

PS: Here at Uncle Lim's Durian Farm, you can order different kinds of durian separately, or pay RM35/pax for a durian buffet, which includes 3 to 4 types of durian served unlimitedly to you. 

Small and sweet durian. I like!

Surfeited with durians and rambutans, I decided to check out the surrounding area for some photo-worthy subjects, at the same time, speed up the digestion process so that there is available stomach space for dinner.

Aha! Spotted this cute little puppy hiding at what seemed like an old bus stop.

At about half past three, we finally left for our next destination - Bike Wash! Though it was an impromptu decision, the group welcomed it without hesitation because our bikes were quite dirty after riding through the rain and travelling through the dusty roads of Pekan Nanas. 

Riding back to Gelang Patah, we arrived at a local car / bike wash shop which offers good and cheap bike wash at RM15, which includes waxing.

Meanwhile, the ladies crossed the street to Tesco Mall, and did what all women do best - Shopping.

Kruzers crowding around Malaysian's No. 2 Barista and asking questions

The entire bike wash process took approximately 2 hours for all 6 bikes. Which is just as well because by the time we finished the bike wash, it was dinner time.

So for our last food destination, we rode to one of our favorite cafes - Monsta cafe - for dinner.

My Fish & Vongole Spaghetti (RM14.90)

As usual, we ate to our hearts content, resulting in food coma in some (points to self).

So after dinner, we continued to hang out at Monsta Cafe, sipping our tasty coffee, taking pictures and admiring the beautiful coffee art, while having hearty conversations.

..

All in all, it was a slow and relaxing day trip, with generally good weather (except for the short period of rain), and great company. The durians however, fell short of our expectations.

Nonetheless, we enjoyed ourselves, we enjoyed each other's company, and we enjoyed the ride. I guess that's all that matters isn't it.


Possibly Related Posts:
The Fruit of Love
My Durian Surprise
Kruzer: Food On Sticks II
Batu Pahat 2010 (Day 2)
Saturday Love


Share This On:    

Kruzer: Banding-Cameron-Frasers 2012 (Day 1)

While most welcomed the weekends with gatherings, parties or the comfy couch, a group of Kruzers headed out to Belum Rainforest Resort at Banding some 700km+ away.

But just so you know, 700km isn't a stone's throw away. Located at the far north of Peninsular Malaysia, Banding is about 40km+ away from the borders of Thailand, and that, my friend, is very far away from Singapore.

Which is why this trip requires about 12 hours of riding; inclusive of several food and fuel stops in between.

But for such long trips, we are not like most, who travel in the day, and arrive at their destination at night. Instead, we prefer to travel in the night as it is more cooling, and with lesser traffic on the roads. Furthermore, by doing so, we get to arrive at our destination before noon (or by noon), and have the afternoon to nap a while before moving our lazy bums for some leisure activities. 

According to the itinerary, we were supposed to move off at 11pm. But thanks to yours truly and the BF, who somehow mistook the move off time as the meet up time, we arrived at 11:15pm looking flustered and terribly embarrassed.

Without further delay, Isaac quickly gave us a short briefing and we moved off from GP Esso at about 11:30pm.

After traveling for 150km thereabouts, we arrived at Pagoh R&R for our first fuel stop. Most of us remained alert and awake, engaging in conversations with a can of Nescafe, Red Bull, or 100 Plus in our hands.

But an uneventful fuel stop ended up in smoke when we noticed trails of smoke (literally) arising from a fellow Kruzer's bike.

However the problem was quickly resolved and we continued with our journey thereafter.

At our second fuel stop at NKVE Petronas, most of us started showing signs of fatigue, and our late-supper-cum-early-breakfast Mcdonald's meal really didn't help.

But after adequate food, minimal digestion, and some shut eye, we rode off to our next destination.

Arriving at our third fuel stop at Tapah Petronas, most of us were tired, and it was obvious that some of us needed more than Coffee or Red Bull.

So after refueling, the sleepyheads found their comfy spots to catch a nap, while the others entertained ourselves with more lively conversations.

Leaving Tapah Petronas at 5+ am, it wasn't long between we arrived at Kuala Kangsar exit. Glancing at our info tag, it seems like we are right on schedule!

Not far from Kuala Kangsar turn off, we arrived at bridge where Isaac signaled us to stop. Immediately, I knew why.

Glancing at the misty view of the surrounding lake, this location was a perfect photography spot for those who would like to capture the surreality of the place.

The morning fog falls upon a local town by the lake

Another misty view of the bridge where we stopped for a short photography session earlier

The roads completely engulfed by the mist 

By the time we arrived for our breakfast stop, it was about 7:30am. Looking at the itinerary on our infotags, everything seems to be on track.

Nasi Lemak, Prata, and a caffeinated beverage to keep us awake for our remaining journey 

Shortly after breakfast, Isaac led us to a viewing point where the photo enthusiasts can capture the picturesque scenery.

Aaron and Karen sharing a loving moment while enjoying the beautiful scenery

Share This On:    

Marvel-ous Saturday

Today was our Marvel's The Avengers Movie Date.

But before our movie showtime at 4:25pm, it was a hectic Saturday, filled with programs lined back to back.

10:00am - Church Band Practice. Usually at this time, we'd still be in bed.

12:00pm - Finished Band Practice. Headed to Looi's Motor at Ubi to run some errands.

12:30pm - Headed to MotoWorld to check out their gloves. Cos' I left my previous gloves on my handlebar to dry and someone took one glove. Seriously, who would want to steal ONE glove?

While shopping there, the BF showed me a Shark helmet and after trying it on, I was completely head over heels in love. Furthermore, there was a promotion for the helmet and coincidentally, it was the LAST ONE. So I decided to buy it before someone else gets it.

Characteristics of the Shark Vision-R Helmet:

• Panoramic aperture
• Two shell sizes - composite fibre 
• Rapid Anti Fog System Autoseal System: Better soundproofing, less draft, hermetic
• Easy-Fit glasses system
• SHARKTOOTH Ready

(Read more here)

Shark Vision-R Helmet ($399) and RS Taichi Gloves ($71) 

Me and Marley, and my Shark Vision-R helmet!

1:45pm - Reached home to put down our other stuff, have lunch, and rest

3:00pm - Headed to Marina Square for Marvel's The Avengers movie.

3:30pm - Arrived at Marina Square, get our tickets from Golden Village, and chilled at Starbucks while killing time.

4:20pm - Walked towards Golden Village for our movie

Having bought some very cool motorcycling gerar, getting up and about with a loved one and after watching a bloody good movie, you can say that my Saturday was a Marvel-ous one!


Possibly Related Posts:
The Christmas Chill
Birthday At Lawry's, The Prime Rib
The Boo-Boo
Anniversary At Lawry's
Ebony & Ivory


Share This On:    

The Kruzer Spillover Effect

It has been 2 years since I last joined Kruzer - an awesome motorcycling club with a diverse group of people with an innate desire for adventure and fun, sharing a passionate interest in motorcycling, food (and for others, beer).

My First Kruzer Trip to Gua Tempurang

While I know that I've been very enthusiastic about Kruzer, I didn't know that the passion actually overflow to the people around me, so much so that they notice the little things that's related to it.

Take for example, today:

(Colleague comes to check out Marley, and saw Stevie parked beside)

Colleague: "Both are yours?!"

Me: "Ha ha ha! Yeaa.."

(She inspects Marley while walking around it)

She: "Why Marley got no Kruzer sticker?!"

..

You get my point?


Possibly Related Posts:
Kruzer: RES Trip 060412
Kruzer: AGM @ Tanjung Sutera (Day 2)
Kruzer: AGM @ Tanjung Sutera (Day 1)
Kruzer: 7th Anniversary (Day 1)
Kruzer: 7th Anniversary (Day 2)


Share This On:    

Meet Marley, the Honda Magna

Hello folks, meet Marley.

Weighing about 240kg with a 750cc engine capacity and having a V4 engine, Marley is my newest ride.

I know I've told many friends that "Naaah.. I'm not going to get a Class 2 bike when I get my Class 2 license". But with that bright color (which is also my favorite color), shiny chrome, storage solution, remaining COE, and price range, how could I forego this wonderful opportunity?

It's like, how can you pass by a store that's selling your favorite brand at a 70% discount? Tell me. How?

And in my defense, I wasn't actually looking for a Class 2 bike. A good friend, who shall not be named to protect his identity (haha!), actually arranged for a meetup with Marley's previous owner, and asked if I would like to come along.

(A little background information: Before I passed my Class 2, I actually told this good friend of mine that Marley is on sale. But I didn't give a hoot about it because back then, I haven't gone for my Class 2 TP yet. Even if there was an option to buy the bike before I got my Class 2 license, Marley's previous owner was quite busy and didn't have time to show us the bike.

So anyway, we met up with Marley's previous owner on the night of 10th April.

And when I first saw it, I fell in love with it.

Still, I was actually sitting on the fence with regards to purchasing this bike, because though my heart was telling me "IT'S A GOOD DEAL. YOU HAVE TO GET IT", my brain was rebutting "But you don't need it!"

This went on for a day until I made my decision on Wednesday night.

The good friend then contacted the Marley's ex-owner that night itself, and arranged for the transfer of vehicle to be done on Friday morning.

On Friday, here's a gist of what happened: The wonderful bf, along with the good friend headed down to LTA to do the transfer of bike ownership. After which, dear went around different places to settle the payment for the bike, send the bike to the mechanic to replace the necessary parts, before presenting it to me in its ready-to-ride condition on Friday night.

ISN'T MY BF A DARLING!?

Of course, special thanks also goes to the good friend who did all the behind-the-scenes negotiation and liaison with Marley's ex-owner, picked up my insurance cover note, and arranged for the meetup with Marley's ex-owner.

Seriously, without you guys (and my efficient mechanic), Marley wouldn't be sitting downstairs and enjoying a sun tan session now.

So thank you dear, thank you you-know-who-you-are, and thank you Ah Chong! Oh, and thank you mama for pushing me off the fence :)


Possibly Related Posts:
My Class 2 License
Lessons From My Sena
Push. Don't Paddle
Stevie's First Servicing
Meet Stevie, The Steed


Share This On:    

Class 2 License

Ever since I embarked on my motorcycling journey with my Class 2B license, followed by my Class 2A license a year later, I've always dreaded the day when I had to enroll for my Class 2 license.

Now for the benefit of those who do not know the difference between a Class 2B, Class 2A, and Class 2 license:

• A Class 2B license allows one to ride a motorcycle of engine capacity not exceeding 200cc
• A Class 2A license allows one to ride a motorcycle of engine capacity between 201cc - 400cc
• A Class 2 license allows one to ride a motorcycle of engine capacity exceeding 400cc

Now I don't HAVE to take my Class 2 license, since riding on the traffic-congested roads of Singapore with a Class 2A motorcycle would simply suffice.

But with a Class 2 license, it opens up the opportunity for me to own a Class 2 motorcycle (with engine capacity above 400cc) one day. And personally, getting a Class 2 license is like an achievement; akin to a student getting his/her Doctorate degree.

If it's an personal achievement, then why the dread?

Taking my first Class 2 lesson. Photo taken by the BF. 

Because in addition to the circuit courses, one has to flex those muscles and be tested for dropping the dummy bike and lifting the it up (with the correct technique), walking the bike in a figure of 8, and parking the bike back on its main stand.

Furthermore, the circuit courses require much more skill i.e. Clocking more time on the narrow plank (> 10 secs), clocking less time in the figure of 8 (< 11 secs) etc..

Having said the above, there are only three Class 2 lessons, of which the last lesson is an evaluation which allows you to book your TP (Traffic Police) test upon passing.

Fortunately, I managed to clear all my lessons and evaluation by end February, and book my TP test on 9th April 2012.

9th April came by sooner than expected. Waking up at 5:30am, I had some time to sip my morning cup of joe and enjoy my morning breakfast before leaving for my TP test at CDC (Comfort Driving Centre).

Arriving at the Motorcycling Training Reporting Counter at CDC, I was surprised that there was no one in sight. Glancing at the clock, it was 6:55am. Though I was 20 minutes early, I would have expected other testees to come early and psyche themselves up. 

"Maybe they are confident", I thought to myself.

At about 7:05am - 7:10am, more testees arrived and taking a quick glance around, I realized that I'M THE ONLY CLASS 2 FEMALE TESTEE! *panics*

Before our TP test commences at 09:30am, we were allowed to practice for one round. But being the cheeky me, I managed to go for an extra practice round before the instructor asked me to return my motorcycle.

Below is the timeline of events leading up to receiving my TP results:

08:00am - Instructor dismissed us for a 35min break. During our break, I managed to talk to a Class 2A testee about motorcycles, riding, and other jibber jabber.

08:35am - Gathering back at the Motorcycle Shed, another instructor gave a final briefing on the circuit route, reminding us to check our blindspots, how we should form up correctly, the timings that we need to clock for each course etc..

09:10am - We were dismissed for another 20min break. Seriously, all these waiting time is a waste of time!

09:30am - Arriving back at the Motorcycle Shed, the TP testers came and called up our number tags in ascending order, as they needed to verify our identities against the documents that we submitted earlier.

09:40am - The Class 2 testees were then told to gather beneath a tree just outside of the motorcycle shed (where the class 2A testees could see).

The TP tester would then call up the first Class 2 tag number - Number 1, and he would be tested for the following - dismount the dummy bike from main stand, drop the bike (with the correct technique), lift it up (with the correct technique), walk it in a figure of 8, and mount it back on its mainstand.

Soon, my number tag - Number 6 - was called up. At this point, I could really feel my heart jumping out of my mouth.

"What if I can't lift the bike?! What if I can't mount the bike on its mainstand?!" These thoughts started racing through my mind.

Approaching the dummy bike with much trepidation and fear, I just mustered all courage, shook off those negative worries and .. phew! Managed to do it without any hiccups!

After which, we all gathered back in the shed and the circuit test commenced.

10:10am - Because of the earlier "workout" from lifting the bike, I was already all pumped up when it was turn to go for my circuit test.

In less than 10 minutes or so, I finished my test and arrived back at the shed.

11:15am - All of us proceeded to the 3rd floor where our results would be announced. As we waited, the atmosphere in the room got tenser, and finally one TP tester came into the room and shouted "Number 1.. Number 3"..

Those who had taken their TP tests before would know what it means when the tester shouts your number tag. For the benefit of those who doesn't know, having your number tag shouted out by the tester means that you have failed your test.

11:30am - Another tester came in and shouted more tag numbers. I continued to bite my nails and drum my fingers.

Finally, the last tester came in and shouted 1 or 2 more numbers, followed by "the rest of you all passed", before closing the door.

Immediately, audible sighs of reliefs mixed with exclamations of joy filled the room, and I did what all social butterflies do - update my Twitter & Facebook status!

After which, we collected our results and headed down to level 2 to update our drivers license.

..

Looking back at my Class 2 learning journey, I realized that it wasn't as daunting and nerve-wrecking as I thought it would be. On the contrary, it was a fun experience, albeit filled with lots of perspiration, muscles, and anxiety.

And although some would say that a Class 2 license is just a license, it is more than that to me. It is my achievement, satisfaction, relief, and hope.

Achievement - because I have overcome my dread (since Class 2B).

Satisfaction - because I, a petite skinny asian girl can lift up a Class 2 bike (hehe!).

Relief - because no longer do I need to go back to CDC for lessons, evaluations, and tests.

And lastly, Hope - because I know that I am able to ride my own Class 2 motorcycle one day.


Possibly Related Posts:
Lessons From My Sena
Push. Don't Paddle
Stevie's First Servicing
A Turn of the Screw
Meet Stevie, The Steed


Share This On: