Geelong’s S.L.O.B, 23 May

Lucky for us the temperatures began to moderate running up to the 23rd May and Geelong’s infamous yearly event, The Slow Lap around the Bellarine Peninsula. A special event allowing the faithful to enjoy a leisurely jaunt on their older steeds at a pace fitting the era.

This was a combined event for the Geelong and Melbourne riders. Ten Melbourne riders assembled at Laverton for a 9.30am departure and after a briefing by the ride leader Jimmy (Linton) we headed of for the meeting point at the Drysdale Historic Railway Station.

We rode out from Laverton in full sun and little wind with high expectations of a great day.

Arriving at the meeting destination, a further twenty-two riders had assembled. A total of thirty-two riders had now assembled to be briefed by the Geelong S.L.O.B ride leader Ron (Study) on the day’s events.

At a relaxed 80 kilometre per hour speed, our route would see us depart Drysdale station in an easterly direction towards Swan Bay Road, on through cattle farm country towards Queenscliff and Portarlington Road. Turning right onto Bluff Road that runs to Edwards Point along the water’s edge passing through St Leonards, Indented Heads and Portarlington Foreshore. Turning onto Collins Street, then onto Beacon Point Road to take in the view looking back over Geelong from Edgewater Drive. Our ride was coming to an end as we rode onto Bayshore drive, onto Jetty drive and back to the starting point at Drysdale Historic Railway Station.

Following the ride, a tasty BBQ and drinks provided the ideal atmosphere to mingle, catching up with old friends and enjoying the array of machines on display.  They ranged from Rod’s (Wright) 1942 Harley Davidson, the oldest machine on the ride to a number of moderns. It was a fitting tribute to the S.L.O.B run to see so many Red Plate Bikes. The motorcycle continues to evolve.

It was indeed a great day, but not without those who worked behind the scenes. A big thank you to Trish (Study) and all those who assisted with the BBQ and preparation. To Ron, thank you for a most enjoyable S.L.O.B, Graeme (Wilson) for fulfilling Tail End Charlie duties and Rod & Caz (Dutton) for leading the Melbourne riders back to the freeway via the scenic route.

The ride was supported with a backup trailer and just as well as Noel’s (Wills) ‘Mongrel’ didn’t quite make it to the finish line. Thank you to the backup trailer drivers

Until next time, ride safe.
Brian Wilson

S.L.O.B   Participants

Rider Bike year
Rod Wright Harley Davidson 1942
Burger Drake Vincent Rapide 1950
Martyn Goodwin Vincent Comet 1951
Grabor Harangozo Matchless 500 1951
Ron Study AJS & Sidecar 1955
Henry Armitage Pillion
Noel Wills Matchless 1957
Ian Bryant Matchless G12 1960
Andy Symonds Panther & Sidecar 1962
Mal Loone Ariel 1964
Nick Oakley BSA Bantam 1966
Mark Mensh Triumph TR6 1972
Doug Aldham Yamaha RD350 1973
Jimmy Linton Triumph TR7 1974
Ian Snadden BMW R90s 1974
Bruce Bubb Triumph T140 1977
Rod & Caz Dutton Kawasaki Z650 1978
Peter Andrew Triumph T140 1978
Phil Young Suzuki GS1000F 1980
Stuart Armitage BMW K100 1983
Steve Kirtley Yamaha XJ650 1983
Graeme Wilson BMW K75c 1985
John Palmer BMW R80 1986
Brian Wilson BMW K100RS 1988
Etham & Beth BMW K100 1988
Richard Sommerville Honda CB1000F 1994
Peter Keage Moto Guzzi 2002
Diane Keage Pillon
Joe Pell Harley Davidson 2012
David & Mez McLennan Triumph Thruxton 2016
David MacLannister Royal Enfeild 650 2020
John & Vicki Best Suzuki SV650 2021