Ride Report #6: First ride to nowhere - within Penang

Since CMCO started on the 9th November 2020 and after two weeks of not riding, we were itching to get on our bikes and just ride around the island. Those who are joining met at the usual Caltex petrol and as usual those who arrived early chit chatted while waiting for the rest to arrive.

There were a total of 5 bikes joining the 1/2 island trip and when all arrived we departed to our first destination which is the Teluk Bahang dam. There was quite a lot of traffic on the way to the dam but we were able to lane split thus saving us some time.

The group waiting for the light on the way to the dam

There was a few bike groups already there at the dam. I guess they too had the idea of riding round island since the lockdown. The water level for the dam was quite low which was not surprising as we are currently experiencing some drought. I do hope that it rains soon else the government will have to start water rationing.

Low water level for the dam

After resting, doing some silly things and discussing on whether we should continue on to Balik Pulau or turn back, we decided to head over to Auto Bavaria to test ride the R nine T and S1000RR. We took the long way to Auto Bavaria via Gurney drive and Esplanade. On the way to Gurney Drive, we picked up another member who joined us the ride.

Riding along Gurney drive. Photos courtesy of Nik

On the way to Auto Bavaria, we had an impromptu stop at a coconut drink shop which was a good call as we were feeling parched from riding under the hot sun.

A group shot before leaving the coconut shop

After the cooling pit stop we rode over to Auto Bavaria (which was only about a minute's ride away) to test the R nine T and S1000RR. It was a shame that three of the riders had to leave for home due to some prior arrangements. The rest of us carried on with the plan.

An assortment of helmets occupying the table

Disclaimer: I did not test the S1000RR. I am somehow afraid to get on a sport bike. I might need to face that fear one day but it will definitely not be on a S1000RR. I took the R nine T out for a test run. Overall it was not that hyped up to be but it has its own unique characteristics.

 

R nine T and the Triumph Street Triple R

Since we were given total freedom to ride where ever our heart pleases, the one who tested the S1000RR went his merry way. I rode with another member to do some errands. First order of business was to go to the nearest ATM which gives me the chance to see how the bike perform in city traffic. After that we headed to the expressway to let the bike loose. About 45 mins of testing, we returned to Auto Bavaria, returned the key and called it a day.

On the way back, I stopped at Tesco to pick up some cold surprise and got a call to visit the vet to collect some medicines for the furbabies. Backtracked to the vet, picked up the medicines and headed home as it was starting to rain. Stopped by a coffee shop on the way back to pick up lunch as it was almost lunch time.

Lunch break on the way home

  

Relive video for the day's ride

 

  Remember to ride safe, be vigilant and keep the rubber side down