September 28, 2015

2015 Distinguished Gentleman's Ride - Bangkok

For this 4th edition of the DGR, I decided to pass the organizational reins to my friends from Ride&Pride. The popularity of the ride has seen an exponential growth, and I just don't have the time to do everything by myself like in the previous years. In fact, this year there were 3 other rides in Thailand, namely Phuket, Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen.
The guys from R&P did an awesome job and gave me the honour of being one of 10 ride marshalls.



We met at the Triumph shop at RCA, where we could get free refreshments to somehow overcome the sticky Bangkokian heat. Next we filtered through the dense traffic and had many onlookers, who were probably wondering what these bikers were doing, all dressed up in fine cloth.

Wearing a suit in this weather is not something I would recommend. Ask Bram. Bram's bike decided enough is enough and just stopped working at the first regrouping place. Being the gentleman that I am and on official duty on top of that, I stayed behind with the unfortunate stranded gentleman. As even push starting the bike seemed futile, I pushed him to a nearby Harley dealer, who graciously offered to recharge Bram's battery. But that didn't solve the problem.... Then, a helpful policeman showed up and escorted us to another bike shop. It couldn't have been further away from the Harley shop, in terms of bling bling $$. The level of effectiveness is probably the same, though. Turns out there was water (!) in the CDI and it needs to be replaced. Quick decision: leave the bike there and go to the party!

2 hours late, we were on the way to the final meeting point, when it suddenly started to rain. Not just a drizzle, but a nice monsoon rain! Even though we were only 5 minutes from the place, we had no choice but to stop and take cover. Fortunately, I didn't last very long and we were finally able to get our hands on some well deserved beer and food.

Oh, and if you haven't donated for prostate cancer research yet, you're still on time! Head over to the official website and SPONSOR ME!! Don't be shy. Do it now!

Now enjoy some of my pics and the beautiful photographs made by the very talented and prolific Jo, aka
Nikkasit Motographer Kup-Thai.


A slightly modified Suzuki Van Van

Bram, still relaxed and dry


One of my favourite bikes of the day


Ready?


LET'S GO!!!


At the Harley shop ...

The first Guzzis I see in Thailand, in 9 years!

The second shop...

Monsoon rain

FINALLY!
What we've missed in the meantime....
















































Bram telling about his adventures