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Dutch Weekender for the BSB at Assen

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Matt B
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PostPosted: 09:58 - 04 Oct 2017    Post subject: Dutch Weekender for the BSB at Assen Reply with quote

Friday afternoon Pigeon and myself set off for Harwich to catch the overnight ferry to Holland.

https://i.imgur.com/ycJvPkb.jpg

Waiting to board the ferry. We cut straight across country from my place in Milton Keynes - Henlow, Bishop's Stortford then picked up the A120 into Harwich. Missed most of the Friday traffic and stopped for sausage and chips in Harwich town.

We got off the boat at about 8, hit McDs for a pannekoeken breakfast of champions and then headed for the circuit at Assen. It started raining, which was the theme of the day for Saturday.

https://i.imgur.com/09T4y7I.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/D8CPWLq.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/KxGyLku.jpg

Stopped off for a break and wander round in a little place called Zwolle. It started raining sideways when we left.

https://i.imgur.com/VLJh11J.jpg

Got to the circuit after lunch, totally drowned, and hid in the covered grandstand to watch qualifying.

I had emailed the lady who owns the B&B where we stayed earlier in the day to tell her when we would be there. She had lit the wood burner for us which was lovely.

Race day was awesome - great weather and grandstand seats again on the start/finish straight. I left my phone at the B&B though, so no photos. Hopefully Pigeon will add a few in later.

If you haven't been to Holland it's an awesome place. Great countryside and super friendly people who mostly speak fantastic English.
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groovylee
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PostPosted: 12:52 - 04 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

great stuff mate. hopefully i'll be able to do next year Thumbs Up
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Copycat73
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PostPosted: 16:18 - 04 Oct 2017    Post subject: Re: Dutch Weekender for the BSB at Assen Reply with quote

Matt B wrote:

If you haven't been to Holland it's an awesome place. Great countryside and super friendly people who mostly speak fantastic English.


i have .. its where i get off the ferry... and post-haste make for the Alps or dolomites where Magnificent countryside and super friendly people who mostly speak German ..... Thumbs Up
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Pigeon
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PostPosted: 23:11 - 04 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

2017 BSB Assen. Wow. A definite highlight of the year for me.

Big thanks to MattB who crafted a fantastically memorable time.

Apologies for repeating some comments and pictures..

I set off Friday around 12pm from Guildford to Milton Keynes. Averaged 24mph getting round the M25. What a flock of misery that is (its all relative).

Lovely house, lovely wife. I really felt sorry for Matt that he was going to suffer 100 hours with my fugly mug. But god doesn't send us more than we can handle (apparently), so figured he was up to the challenge.

We set off to Harwich on some really lovely roads. My mood lifted as I chased his 1250 across some great countryside. The frustration and anxiety of the M25 fading with each sweeping bend.

Arrived in Harwich as the light was fading. Sausage and Chips (not a Euphemism) as the sunset.
The place was empty (except for a dog in the chippy that took a shine to Matts leg. Probably the size of his sausage. Or that it was battered, I went for plain).

https://i.imgur.com/nk3MRIa.jpg


Good number of bikes.

https://i.imgur.com/wahofla.jpg


And our proportionate armed escort (pretty sure they were just making sure we left)

https://i.imgur.com/MRoXZIz.jpg


Captain of the ship was clearly an ex racer, toilet door had a steering dampener!
https://i.imgur.com/3Ff8ktq.jpg

The cabins themselves where brilliant as was the ship. I had perhaps some of the feeling that those on the Titanic had......the good bits, the feeling that 'one' had arrived in life.


Several beers were enjoyed while chatting shit about the 90's and even though we were separated by 20 years experiences since then and 150 miles (and continents in between) there was some bizarre crossover.


Arrived in Holland to be greeted by a giant spliff (in the background). Best hangover cure. Although slightly disappointed by the lack of Hookers in the Hook of Holland.
https://i.imgur.com/r6YFJMA.jpg

Riding out the port and the place is beautiful. Dykes either side, pristine houses and roads. Chocolate box in places.

Then a visit to McDonalds for breakfast which opened my eyes further. Such happy and chatty people. Their joy for life was infectious, I wish I could bottle it and release it into the local water supply.

Holland. How can such a stunning place, such a clean and mild mannered and friendly place exist.

https://i.imgur.com/inK1Mv6.jpg


It was however wet.

https://i.imgur.com/9cIzDnN.jpg

Very wet
https://i.imgur.com/T481P4U.jpg

Qualifying, Supersport and Motostar were seen, and as much as I never cheer when a rider goes down, Shakey fell twice (which given his outburst at Silverstone was a little funny). I say funny, but the track really was getting flooded in places. Standing water at apex's. The pace car was throwing up rivers as it went round scouting the grip.
Taz Mackenzie had a nasty off that resulted in his handlebar smashing through his visor and denting his face.
Josh Elliott had a moment on his s1krr that well deserved the audience applause.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFzJIN9PppI

The Motostar bikes were mentally loud. The ground, the stand, my moobs and beer gut were shaking like 6.7 on the Richter.
Those riders are (like everyone) properly committed.

B&B was priced far less than even a shady hotel in Assen (which we later found out that a well known central Assen hotel was broken into on two nights and 5-7 bikes were nicked).
https://i.imgur.com/5TFLo1P.jpg

We had no such issues. It was lovely. Instantly felt at home. Beers in the fridge and a wood burning stove......which was needed because Saturday had been moist. Gone through two sets of gloves, waterproofs that were over waterproof textiles and kinda moist (dripping).
https://i.imgur.com/IDxbyl7.jpg


Over a very nice bottle of Merlot there was more bizarre crossover discussion. The world is truly separated by six people.


Sunday the rain left and the day was stunning Smile
https://i.imgur.com/oE7zocV.jpg


Made a visit to the Paddock
https://i.imgur.com/zoMmN4F.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/NaMnOkv.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/d0NizEV.jpg


Racing was close
https://i.imgur.com/Q6bRnmv.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/qjHEEAI.jpg


Can't remember the last time I left a place thinking I was leaving home
https://i.imgur.com/x97bcpB.jpg

The boat ride back and we parked next to Josh Brookes motorhome. He got out and got in the Tyco van to chat with his old mates (presumably).
I took the opportunity to grab a photo of is motorhome and didn't realise his Mrs was in the passenger seat, who I flashed.....with the camera....could have been worse.

https://i.imgur.com/rm7OaXW.jpg


On the boat back I was feeling a bit down because it ended. Then some randoms were chatting stuff and I thought initially they were care in the community. But they were top fellas. Nutters. But sound (much like BCF). Will be on the lookout of TOG racing.

Then #98 walked past from the Ducati Tri Options Cup. The Dutch love him. He was doing press-ups and star jumps on the grid, waving on some of the laps. Every time getting a huge cheer.

Back at Harwich and while queuing in the petrol station to pay, I spot a "Police" man paying attention to my bike (it might have a small plate), I ask Matt in the queue behind me if its fed. And the guy immediately behind me replies no, its ok, he's a Polite Wanker (or words to that effect). Dude behind me was driving a van for the Honda team.
The BSB circus travels with the fans. We passed Peter Hickman's motorhome on the way home.

Got home 22:30 Monday.

https://i.imgur.com/r419lcY.jpg


It may have been a too short a trip, it may be rose specs. But the Netherlands is on the list to go back to!!

Matt won't appreciate me gushing I'm sure, but it was a pleasure and a joy (in my own way).

To next year!


Last edited by Pigeon on 00:34 - 05 Oct 2017; edited 1 time in total
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Tracer1234
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PostPosted: 23:54 - 04 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Sounds good Pigeon, great write up! Room for one more next time?
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haroman666
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PostPosted: 23:54 - 04 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Top write up lads. Sounds like an awesome little trip!
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Howling Terror
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PostPosted: 01:25 - 05 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Nice prescription.....I meant nice bike trip. Thumbs Up Thumbs Up Thumbs Up
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Howling Terror
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PostPosted: 01:29 - 05 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Tracer1234 wrote:
Sounds good Steve, great write up! Room for one more next time?
.
Edited so you may get invited Razz
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Matt B
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PostPosted: 09:23 - 05 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Pigeon wrote:
Matt won't appreciate me gushing I'm sure


Gush away Thumbs Up

It's a massively overlooked part of Europe. It may not have the twisty Alpine passes (we were in the Dutch highlands at a vertiginous 15m ASL) or the sweeping fast bends of southern Germany, but it has everything else. Pair that up with a weekend of racing and you get a great experience.

The guys we sat next to and chatted with on the boat reckoned it was probably the best weekend away they had ever done on bikes.
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arry
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PostPosted: 09:28 - 05 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

I'd have a go at that if you're heading again next year.
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Kris
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PostPosted: 09:53 - 05 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Top work fellas Thumbs Up

I guess the rule must be don't get caught speeding there? Tut Tut
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instigator.
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PostPosted: 12:37 - 05 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Matt B wrote:

It's a massively overlooked part of Europe. It may not have the twisty Alpine passes (we were in the Dutch highlands at a vertiginous 15m ASL) or the sweeping fast bends of southern Germany, but it has everything else. Pair that up with a weekend of racing and you get a great experience.

The guys we sat next to and chatted with on the boat reckoned it was probably the best weekend away they had ever done on bikes.


It really couldn't be overlooked from a motorcycling perspective because it really is terribly boring to ride over here. I found Belgium far better; despite the roads being in terrible condition the further south you went, at least you could find some hills. Outside of motorcycling, Its pretty awesome to live over here, especially if you enjoy cycling.

Next time you go to Assen, get a hotel in Groningen (city where I live) and go out for a few beers there. Plenty to 'see' out there.
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Pigeon
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PostPosted: 21:50 - 05 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

instigator. wrote:

It really couldn't be overlooked from a motorcycling perspective because it really is terribly boring to ride over here. I found Belgium far better; despite the roads being in terrible condition the further south you went, at least you could find some hills. Outside of motorcycling, Its pretty awesome to live over here, especially if you enjoy cycling.

Next time you go to Assen, get a hotel in Groningen (city where I live) and go out for a few beers there. Plenty to 'see' out there.



The weather was terrible on Saturday; that withstanding the lack of bikers was obvious. Near pin straight roads and zero elevation change doesn't appeal to most. However, the quality of the roads in terms of size, markings and build is fantastic. So much so, that after 300 miles I spotted my first pothole, that was barely 2-3 inches. The roads are so smooth. After a while, found the straight roads relaxing not boring, allowing the scenery to be taken in.

My preferred habitat is a twisty and changeable B-road. But Holland made a nice, relaxing change.

One thing. I did think drivers were very close to us and each other, changing lanes with only a foot between each other at 130kph
I did wonder if this was because the roads are so wide, well maintained and with inherently excellent visibility that people are complacent, think nothing of it, and the number of accidents is very low.

Been through Belgium a couple of times, haven't warmed to the place. Forgettable scenery and terrible roads. Reminds me too much of here.
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Matt B
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PostPosted: 11:45 - 06 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

instigator. wrote:
Next time you go to Assen, get a hotel in Groningen


Not a chance. Our B&B worked out about a quarter of the price of a hotel and I really like being out in the countryside away from the city. I've stayed at the same place 3 times now and it's too nice to give up in favour of a bland hotel. Also, as Steve said, a lot of bikes got up and walked out of the De Bonte Wever car park on Saturday night. I know it's not Groningen but still.
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Bonnie Lad
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PostPosted: 15:52 - 08 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Nice report. Assen sounds cool, a couple of us are thinking of doing that on the bike next year

Not sure where you've been riding up until now if you think Holland is anything other than dogshit on bikes though. It makes the south east of England look like motorcycling heaven
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Matt B
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PostPosted: 09:13 - 09 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

I don't remember saying at any point they have great biking roads. I actually said there are no twisties or fast sweeping bends. However, they do have good quality roads, without potholes and all the crap we put up with.

Sometimes touring on a bike isn't always about riding fantastic roads. If I wanted that I would hit the Alps, which we did in the summer. It's just as nice to have a great time once you get somewhere, and that's what watching racing at Assen gives you.
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ocatoro
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PostPosted: 15:48 - 09 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

am I missing something... BSB is british superbikes, no? ... in Netherlands?
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arry
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PostPosted: 16:02 - 09 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

ocatoro wrote:
am I missing something... BSB is british superbikes, no? ... in Netherlands?


Nope, not missing nout; I guess they find it good to get away on occasion, raise profile etc.

When I did Abu Dhabi in 2012 for the F1, we had the Aussie V8 Supercars in support races.
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ocatoro
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PostPosted: 16:24 - 09 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

sweet, didn't realise they did that. are tickets as reasonable as they are "locally"
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Matt B
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PostPosted: 09:33 - 10 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

BSB has run a round at assen since 2012. You only need to watch it on the TV to see the kind of crowds it draws compared to the ghost town that is Silverstone, the main covered grandstand gets rammed.

It's a showcase really, this year they rode some of the superbikes through Assen town and parked up in the square along with the safety cars. You also get a few extras thrown in, like the ADAC Junior KTMs and the BeNeCup which is Dutch. They are into their motorsport anyway, but it helps to draw a local crowd.

Tickets are £35 for the weekend and that includes free grandstand access. Pretty much the same as a locally purchased weekend ticket which is 35 Europonds.
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ocatoro
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PostPosted: 20:22 - 12 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

cheers dude.. might give it a go next year for something to do
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chrisdubya
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PostPosted: 10:07 - 18 Oct 2017    Post subject: Reply with quote

Good write up this Thumbs Up

I quite fancy either BSB or MotoGP there next year. Driving to Newcastle to get the ferry, and then to Assen, is actually a shorter driving time than for me to go to Donington!
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