[Alf Alpha]

Hi Guys,

I was fortunate enough yesterday to have a great run down the Putty Road from Mount Thorley to Windsor with my wife in our 4C Spider.

I am pleased to report that the resurfacing work is complete, the white lines have been painted back on and most of the loose stones have been swept up.

I have to give credit to the guys and gals that have done the resurfacing - instead of using those coarse loose stones that's dual purpose in life is to chip paint (and windscreens) plus upending motorbikes mid-corner, they have gone for the very smooth, very grippy, sprayed-on dark level surface. This surface is adored by the 4C and where they have sprayed it, you are able to push the 4C around the corners really well and feel exactly how much grip is available.

A word of caution for anyone heading that way if it is raining. That same fresh surface will be a touch slippery for a little while 'til the road "beds-in" fully.

The only moving road-block was an L plater in a ute - we all have to learn some-time, so they didn't get any hassle from the 4C sitting behind them. I followed patiently through the northern twisty section with the double-white solid centre-lines for over 5km, and had a chance to take in the view for a change - it's quite pretty through there. I also got to see what it is like to go around every corner at the recommended speed posted on the yellow signs - it's a very over-rated pastime & I can thoroughly recommend that you don't try it in a 4C if you have the option.

Following the learner (at 50-70 in the 80 zone) for so long meant that when I did get to the over-taking lane that the road ahead was clear for the rest of the run to Windsor. A full throttle upshift whilst passing the ute, signalled my admiration (for the "driver" in the passenger seat doing the instructing) for not using one of the ten opportunities to pull over that we had passed with me stuck behind them was really appreciated. How hard would it have been to pull-off to the side of the road out of the way for three seconds to let me by? Nah - why bother when you can hold someone up for an extra 10 minutes?

Lots of fun was had on the rest of the road and no more moving road-blocks came into view until Ebenezer

A couple of Goanna's sunning themselves on the hot tarmac got a bit of a surprise when the pops and bangs of a downshifting Alfa came into earshot and a Competizione Rosso 4C came flying around the corner, shooting past them and off into the distance.

One other thing to note, the Grey Gums Cafe was closed - I don't think there is enough mid-week traffic to make it worth their while opening.

Cheers,

Alf.

 

[Alfanut]

Hi Guys,

I was fortunate enough yesterday to have a great run down the Putty Road from Mount Thorley to Windsor with my wife in our 4C Spider.

I am pleased to report that the resurfacing work is complete, the white lines have been painted back on and most of the loose stones have been swept up.

I have to give credit to the guys and gals that have done the resurfacing - instead of using those coarse loose stones that's dual purpose in life is to chip paint (and windscreens) plus upending motorbikes mid-corner, they have gone for the very smooth, very grippy, sprayed-on dark level surface. This surface is adored by the 4C and where they have sprayed it, you are able to push the 4C around the corners really well and feel exactly how much grip is available.

A word of caution for anyone heading that way if it is raining. That same fresh surface will be a touch slippery for a little while 'til the road "beds-in" fully.

The only moving road-block was an L plater in a ute - we all have to learn some-time, so they didn't get any hassle from the 4C sitting behind them. I followed patiently through the northern twisty section with the double-white solid centre-lines for over 5km, and had a chance to take in the view for a change - it's quite pretty through there. I also got to see what it is like to go around every corner at the recommended speed posted on the yellow signs - it's a very over-rated pastime & I can thoroughly recommend that you don't try it in a 4C if you have the option.

Following the learner (at 50-70 in the 80 zone) for so long meant that when I did get to the over-taking lane that the road ahead was clear for the rest of the run to Windsor. A full throttle upshift whilst passing the ute, signalled my admiration (for the "driver" in the passenger seat doing the instructing) for not using one of the ten opportunities to pull over that we had passed with me stuck behind them was really appreciated. How hard would it have been to pull-off to the side of the road out of the way for three seconds to let me by? Nah - why bother when you can hold someone up for an extra 10 minutes?

Lots of fun was had on the rest of the road and no more moving road-blocks came into view until Ebenezer

A couple of Goanna's sunning themselves on the hot tarmac got a bit of a surprise when the pops and bangs of a downshifting Alfa came into earshot and a Competizione Rosso 4C came flying around the corner, shooting past them and off into the distance.

One other thing to note, the Grey Gums Cafe was closed - I don't think there is enough mid-week traffic to make it worth their while opening.

Cheers,

Alf.

Good to know Alf. Thanks. I‘m heading up this arvo after lunch for a little fun before the wet weather comes. Looks like a run up and back with a stop at Colo River this time.

 

[Alfanut]

Hi Fellas, I was on the bottom end of the Putty yesterday in the 147 enjoying the rain when I spotted my first live dear near the roadside since the fires. Fortunately he (she) jumped into the bushes rather than out onto the road. They are coming back, so keep an eye out. It was just before the descent to Colo River, heading North.

Work is being done before and after Colo River involving pinning unstable rocks on the many cuttings in the area so be prepared for some slow sections or even delays depending on the stage of work. Work seems to be paused on Sundays but then there are other issues.....(note to Gilles27 😢 )

 

[Gilles27]

Hi Fellas, I was on the bottom end of the Putty yesterday in the 147, enjoying the rain, when I spotted my first live dear near the roadside since the fires. Fortunately he (she) jumped into the bushes rather than out onto the road. They are coming back, so keep an eye out. It was just before the descent to Colo River, heading North.

Work is being done before and after Colo River involving pinning unstable rocks on the many cuttings in the area so be prepared for some slow sections or even delays depending on the stage of work. Work seems to be paused on Sundays but then there are other issues.....(note to Gilles27 😢 )

No Putty Rd for me on Sunday’s anymore unless I’m in a convoy and not shotgun.
It’s not my backyard and a minefield of radar guns.

 

[Alfanut]

No Putty Rd for me on Sunday’s anymore unless I’m in a convoy and not shotgun.
It’s not my backyard and a minefield of radar guns.

Maybe when we do another run someone can pick you up as a passenger.

 

[Gilles27]

Maybe when we do another run someone can pick you up as a passenger.

No fun in that @Alfanut
Have received my final notice of payment for that famous infringement which is due on 27th March.
Gonna be a lonely autumn for the 4c.😩
All good just in time for winter which is best part of year for our turbos and a clean slate on my licence.
Dwelling on the fact it takes 3 years and 4 months
To get points back is an absolute joke.
Just the way the government likes it I suppose.

 

[Alfanut]

No fun in that @Alfanut
Have received my final notice of payment for that famous infringement which is due on 27th March.
Gonna be a lonely autumn for the 4c.😩
All good just in time for winter which is best part of year for our turbos and a clean slate on my licence.
Dwelling on the fact it takes 3 years and 4 months
To get points back is an absolute joke.
Just the way the government likes it I suppose.

Come a couple of months time and you need a fix you know who to ask.. 😁

 

[Alf Alpha]

No fun in that @Alfanut
Have received my final notice of payment for that famous infringement which is due on 27th March.
Gonna be a lonely autumn for the 4c.😩
All good just in time for winter which is best part of year for our turbos and a clean slate on my licence.
Dwelling on the fact it takes 3 years and 4 months
To get points back is an absolute joke.
Just the way the government likes it I suppose.

@Gilles27

If you need someone to take your baby for a run, you know we are here for you right?

Seriously though, I know how much you love your 4C and how enthusiastically you like to drive her.

I also know that this will be a trigger for depression, so if you need a chat at all, just PM me.

@Alfanut is right - if you need to come for a ride just to be with the gang, we will be happy to pick you up and drop you off. Bring your own Barf-bag.

Cheers,

Alf.

 

[Redracer]

No fun in that @Alfanut
Have received my final notice of payment for that famous infringement which is due on 27th March.
Gonna be a lonely autumn for the 4c.😩
All good just in time for winter which is best part of year for our turbos and a clean slate on my licence.
Dwelling on the fact it takes 3 years and 4 months
To get points back is an absolute joke.
Just the way the government likes it I suppose.

Let it rest Marc, the best part of the year is coming WINTER!!! I love it, crisp cool air 17 degrees and blue skys!!! Cant wait!!

 

[Gilles27]

Honestly guys I am cool about it and the 3 months will come and go in a blink.
Yep Joe we are on the same page and winter is the ultimate time of year. Just promise me when Jim organises our Oberon run to Bathurst you come this time.
It is beyond words that route.
What I love with our groups of regulars is the comradeship and respect for all. That makes the drive more special.
Jim are we going to organise a 4-5 day alpine trip for the 4c gang this year.
Martins detailed write up has me itching to do that.

 

[Alfanut]

Honestly guys I am cool about it and the 3 months will come and go in a blink.
Yep Joe we are on the same page and winter is the ultimate time of year. Just promise me when Jim organises our Oberon run to Bathurst you come this time.
It is beyond words that route.
What I love with our groups of regulars is the comradeship and respect for all. That makes the drive more special.
Jim are we going to organise a 4-5 day alpine trip for the 4c gang this year.
Martins detailed write up has me itching to do that.

Haven’t thought about it for a while. A large tree branch fell the weekend before last and partly demolished our clothes line, so I’m having the tree removed as it’s dying off anyway. The lopper was supposed to come tomorrow but is delayed. Then there’s the third bathroom reno happening. Got the tiles and fittings, just waiting until after the tree goes. Then there’s the big service. Once all that is over I’ll know where I stand. The other Martin from Canberra lives under a lucky star and I wouldn’t mind following him around (or using him as a mine sweeper) again. He’s organising another tour later on in the year. I’m seeing him, as well as Alf on my AROCA Bathurst run on Sunday week so we’re bound to chat about it then. Excuses, I’m full of ‘em.

 

[Gilles27]

Haven’t thought about it for a while. A large tree branch fell the weekend before last and partly demolished our clothes line, so I’m having the tree removed as it’s dying off anyway. The lopper was supposed to come tomorrow but is delayed. Then there’s the third bathroom reno happening. Got the tiles and fittings, just waiting until after the tree goes. Then there’s the big service. Once all that is over I’ll know where I stand. The other Martin from Canberra lives under a lucky star and I wouldn’t mind following him around (or using him as a mine sweeper) again. He’s organising another tour later on in the year. I’m seeing him, as well as Alf on my AROCA Bathurst run on Sunday week so we’re bound to chat about it then. Excuses, I’m full of ‘em.

You worried about the clothes line. What about the fence😩😩😩
Expenses expenses mate.
Mullah comes in one hand and out the other.
If you get stuck for waterproofing on your Reno,Let me know but give me notice this time. Lol!!!

 

[Alfanut]

Did a little of the Putty today in the 147. The flooding only covered the road from Windsor to Wilberforce. The surface is still a little dusty (a problem if you’re caught behind a truck) but no potholes. Since the Windsor and Nth Richmond Bridges both went under and the Punts stopped service there was little traffic to create potholes on the rest of it so all good for another run after Easter. Even the Colo River Bridge didn’t go under nor was the Cafe there affected, so good news all ‘round.

 

[Alfanut]

For those thinking of a mid-week Putty Road run, Grey Gums is now open on Fridays as well as the weekend. Nice. Up here on the Mk5 enjoying the fresh air and sunshine....No traffic and not a pot hole to be seen except the entrance to the Colo River Cafe northern end car park.

 

[Alfanut]

Not a surface condition report but with lockdown over, at least for the time being, for the next couple of weeks we can not go along the Putty quite as far as Grey Gums Cafe, unfortunately. Still, an 80km run along the Putty is still possible and Colo Riverside Cafe will be open from Thursday morning, Oct 14. No prizes for guessing where I’m going come Thursday. It’s been too long; 12 days shy of 4 months to be precise.

 

[Alfanut]

Grey Gums will be reopening on November 6, so I’ve been told.

 

[Alfanut]

A couple of deep pot holes to avoid on the Putty. One really deep one (Edit: Now filled, 29/10/21) that can be lost in tree shadows and catch you out is several metres before the Bull Ridge Road turn off, just to the right of the broken white line of the undertaking lane as you head north. It’s a whopper and could easily swallow up all the ground clearance of a 4C. Stay right. The other couple are on the left as you head south at the top of the big hill and another in the open sweeper section; both are easily spotted.

 

[Alfanut]

That deep pothole near Bull Ridge Road has been filled. The others mentioned haven’t been touched. Took a ride out on the LeMans this morning. It was a hoot.

 

[Alfanut]

The Windsor bridge is open, the weather is looking brilliant, so I’m off on a Putty run this morning on the LeMans, petrol prices be damned. I’ll report back on the road conditions this evening.
It looks a cracking morning for another test-flight, @Alf Alpha

 

[Alfanut]

Just back from a 320km ride. Had a delayed start due to air in the front brake system and had to spend a little time bleeding the brakes.

As for the condition of the Putty Road…..
Starting at McGraths Hill to Wilberforce the road has been washed clean of debris but is still dusty. There is the stench of swamp too. From Wilberforce to Colo River there are several potholes but most are on the left-hand edge of the road and I had no trouble spotting them. The most concerning issue are numerous instances where silt and gravel have been washed onto the road and have become a potential paint-chip and windscreen cracking problem. There are defined tracks through them but if someone coming the other way wants to be a dick…

Just starting up the hill from Colo River heading north there are two instances of silt and gravel mid-way around blind corners and couple of small potholes further along.

Colo Heights to Grey Gums there a few potholes and more instances of gravel washed onto the road. Easily seen.

From Grey Gums to Boggy Swamp Creek there are three sets of roadworks with road crews closing one lane, cleaning up rock and mud-falls ( near the Putty turn-off) and patching the road.

Following that the Putty continues at its brilliant best. Maybe one or two small potholes but again, easily seen.

Considering the rain it’s in pretty good condition. The driveway into Grey Gums is in a precarious state. The owners won’t want any more heavy rain.

The first photo is at Boggy Swamp Creek…stopped for a bite to eat and a cuppa. The others are at Grey Gums.

It was a superb day. Minimal traffic and the air temp refreshingly cool. A magic run up and back for most of its length.

In summary, the road condition beyond Boggy Swamp Creek is still excellent. Before that you need to drive with your eyes open and keep a healthy distance from the car in front for the sake of good vision and to avoid stone damage thrown from the car in front. There are also numerous instances of small dead trees having fallen and partially encroaching on the left-hand side of the road. Cheers.