It seems that most of us had a vehicle that got away. My Ducati Monster S2R may be that vehicle for me. I loved to just look at it and now all I can do is remember it. This story isn’t about that bike but it is about one simple ride a took that I’ll remember forever.

Back in 2015 my mate Matt Coleman asked if I’d be keen on a ride with the Sydney Cafe Racers, “Ah yess!!” was my instant reply, as I knew I’d get to see some very cool bikes plus get a sneaky mid week ride in after work.

All the riders met at Harry’s Cafe de Wheels in Tempe, a classic spot to dine for any car or bike enthusiast. A spot to eat with a view of the carpark is all I need. In this case, you actually eat in the carpark and that’s perfect for me.

We set off on the Princess highway in a group and I was loving it! Cruising alone in/on your pride and joy is one thing but being submersed in a group is quite another, especially on a bike. The sights of polished chrome, bright paint work with a touch of rust along with, the smell of exhaust and of course the rumbles and roars from the bikes around me put me in my happy place.

The early stages of the ride was great because the group was tight but after a few sets of lights we thinned out. Being new to the ride I hung back so the excitement wore off pretty quickly. Before long I saw everyone had pulled over to the side of the road to regroup. Wow, a group that looks out for each other and wants to ride together, this was awesome.

We took off again and all I remember seeing was bikes everywhere. There must have been cars around but I just don’t remember them. It sounds tacky as hell but we were riding into the sunset and all I could see was golden light and the silhouettes of riders ahead. It felt like a ride Steve McQueen would take.

Further along we took the Royal National Park entry and had a blast riding through. it has to be Sydney’s closest thing to an InitIal D touge. I got to a tight right hander and my mind went to the previous time I went through; I approached the corner and froze, I was fixed on the ditch but snapped out of it, my eyes then scanned ahead and the bike followed through. This time around it was only a split second memory. I nailed the corner.

Following a group of riders through a winding road is such an amazing sight. Watching everyone lean in and out of corners in sequence with flashing brake lights and the occasional flame shot, it’s like being on a rollercoaster but sounds sooo much better!

Eventually we reached bald hill, a popular spot for motorists and bikes to congregate and enjoy the view over Stanwell park. I need to record it on a weekend sometime to show you just how busy it can get.

What I love about Cafe Racers is their style. Firstly there are several categories that can be classed as a cafe racer and then owners put on their own custom touch. That day I rode my Ducati Monster S2R which isn’t exactly a Cafe Racer but it’s a naked bike and that helped. I’ve since sold my beloved bike but hey I didn’t trust myself any more.

I enjoyed the ride and capturing the sights so much that on the way home I stopped by the local soccer ground and snapped a few shots by the @Beastman painted wall. I’ve always loved this piece and thought the orange paintwork would pop against the green section.

While the bike is gone, I’ll always remember that ride. Thanks guys

And a huge thanks to you for reading and stopping by!

Domenic Ciccio