Frequently Asked Questions
We receive a number of frequently asked questions about our rides. We have collated and answered those pertaining to Black Dog Ride to Tasmania 2017 for your easy reference.
Please browse these before contacting your Ride Coordinator or the Black Dog Ride Team.
When do Ride Registrations Close?
Full rides to Hobart close on Friday 15th September, and Night Rider registrations close Sunday 15th October.
What are the average daily distances travelled on the ride?
The average daily distance for Tasmania 2017 varies between state to state, but usually around 500kms per day. Some days will be slightly longer, some days shorter.
What do I get for my registration in the ride?
Registration as a Rider for the full Black Dog Ride to Tasmania 2017 includes the following:
• Your entry to the organised ride $180 + GST
• Your ferry passage TO Tasmania but NOT the return from $80 up to $275
• The security of a Support Vehicle with bike trailer en route to Hobart $25 levy
• Rider Kit including commemorative BDR patch and stickers for your bike $15
• The Hobart Welcome Luncheon at Blundstone Arena $20
• The Ride Finale Dinner at Blundstone Arena $47
Black Dog Ride will arrange and inform riders of reasonably priced accomodation for every leg and it is up the the rider to book and pay for it.
Registration does not include meals aside from the two formal meals in Hobart. Community orgs will be providing low cost yummy meals almost every day.
Do we get a patch or stickers before the ride?
Yes. Rider Kits will be dispatched mid October to Ride Coordinators. You will need to pick yours up when you check-in for the ride. Please register early so the correct number of Rider Kits reach your Ride Coordinator.
Riders going all the way to the Apple Isle and their Pillions will receive:
• Welcome Letter From Black Dog Ride
• Mental Health Pamphlets
• Ride Team Contact Card
• 2 Large Tasmania 2017 Stickers
• 1 Small Tasmania Sticker
• 10 Black Dog Ride Wallet Cards
• 1 Wristband
• 1 Tasmania 2017 Patch
Night Riders and Pillions will receive:
• Welcome Letter From Black Dog Ride
• Mental Health Pamphlets
• Ride Team Contact Card
• 1 Large Tasmania 2017 Stickers
• 1 Small Tasmania Sticker
• 5 Black Dog Ride Wallet Cards
• 1 Wristband
• 1 Tasmania 2017 Patch
I can't ride the whole distance, is it ok just to ride a day?
It depends upon your region. Most states allow Night Riders to register, however you will need to check on the ride page whether they allow you to join in or depart anyway, or structure start and end points for Night Riders.
Due to safety and capacity, no on the day registrations can be accepted.
I need a refund for my registration, what do I do?
Due to necessity, Black Dog Ride must pay for deposits and bookings for the Spirit of Tasmania Ferry in advance, and so the following refund policy applies. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Cancellations and Refunds Policy:
Notice of cancellation is required either in person or in writing (email is acceptable).
If you cancel your registration, there will be no refund of monies that we have paid third parties or suppliers on your behalf unless we are able to secure refunds from those parties.
If we provide a refund, we may charge you for administrative or other reasonable expenses we have incurred.
Please advise us if you cannot participate. Contact registrations@blackdogride.com.au for further information.
Can I follow the Ride in my car to be part of the Support Crew?
Cars are strictly limited to Official Black Dog Ride to Tasmania 2017 Support Crew only.
Can I meet my partner in Hobart?
There is nothing to stop your partner meeting you in Hobart, however due to the need for early bookings at the functions and space considerations, the formal Hobart functions are strictly reserved for Tasmania 2017 Riders only.
Why do you ask so many questions on the registration page?
This is for safety purposes whilst on the ride so we can assist you in case of accident or emergency.
You will need to let us know your -
• Name, Address, Phone, Email, Date of Birth, Payment Detials
• Next of Kin Name, Phone and Address (Don't use your pillion!)
• Your bike Make, Model and Rego Number
• Your bike dimensions for the ferry if it's a trike, sidecar or has a trailer
• Start and end points if a Night Rider
• Medical information to help us help you in case of accident or emergency
• Dietary Requirements
This information is kept confidential by Black Dog Ride and only shared with State Coordinators, then Support Crew during the ride. In the case of an accident or medical emergency, relevant information will be shared with emergency services.
The information you provide helps us ensure you have a safe and enjoyable ride, and that we are able to support you should an accident or other emergency arise.
I don't have a credit card, does that mean I can't register?
You will need a credit or debit card to complete the ride registration. If you do not have one, you can purchase a pre pay Visa debit card via any Australia Post outlet here.
If you do not have access to a computer to register, we can send you a registration form, however you will still need a credit or debit card for payment. Contact registrations@blackdogride.com.au for further information.
When does my Rider Kit arrive?
All riders will receive a Riders Pack in September. Please ensure your postal address is correct. If it changes at any time, please contact contact registrations@blackdogride.com.au
I heard we can order special Tasmania 2017 Merchandise. Where do I do that?
In June - July, Black Dog Ride will be in touch with all registered riders to offer the opportunity to purchase exclusive Tasmania 2017 Merchandise. Stay tuned!
Can I camp or take my swag?
Generally, yes. Most accomodation includes camping areas. Your Ride Coordinator can advise you.
Are all roads sealed?
Yes, the ride is conducted on sealed roads, however there may be unforeseen roadworks on route. Your Ride Coordinator can advise you.
I want to drive my car, is this ok?
Registrations are reserved for riders only. We appreciate that so many would like to follow our journey, but space, safety and logistical considerations prohibit cars from joining us.
Is there a support vehicle?
Yes, every state leg will have a support vehicle with bike trailer following the riders to assist with bike breakdown.
Will the support vehicle carry some of my gear for me?
No. Riders are expected to carry their own gear at all times.
Will the support vehicle have a trailer and can they tow my bike if I break down?
Yes, support vehicles will have a bike trailer and will assist you should you need it. However, we strongly encourage riders to have national roadside assistance.
If I want to fly home from Hobart, is there a company who will freight my bike back?
If time is short and you need to get back home straight after the ride, BDR supporters BikesOnly are offering a fantastic deal to freight your bike from Hobart.
The date isn't locked in yet, but we envisage the pick up Hobart to be Tuesday 7th or Wednesday 8th November at a central point in Hobart.
BIKE SHIPPING COST FROM HOBART TO:
MELBOURNE $450
CANBERRA $695
SYDNEY $695
BRISBANE $750
ADELAIDE $695
PERTH $750
DARWIN $850
NEWCASTLE $700
CAIRNS $850
TOWNSVILLE $800
ROCKHAMPTON $795
Contact Manelle and the BikesOnly Team on (07) 3219-7000 or info@bikesonly.com.au, let them know you're a Black Dog Rider and provide the following information -
Full Name, Contact Phone Number, Make, Model, Colour and Rego of bike
Panniers, top box and small gear bag only to travel with bike. Keys must travel with bike as per quarantine regulations. Bikes with alarms must be disabled otherwise battery will be flat upon delivery.
Prices are per bike and includes GST. Prices, which include transit insurance, are to depots in each destination. Pannies and top boxes are included, however do not overload your bike.
This service has limited capacity so book early if you want to "Ride and Fly". They only require payment 2 weeks prior to pick up so you can book now to secure the space.
I have never joined a group ride before/I don't know what bike preparation is involved, what advice do you have for me?
Road Rider has some good general advice about group rides HERE.
Travel tips has compiled: Before you go on a long distance motorbike ride...
Open Road Journey has blogged: Tips For A Long Distance Motorcycle Trip
Motorbike Writer Mark Hinchliffe has written some helpful articles:
• 10 tips to beat dehydration while riding
• 10 tips for beating rider fatigue
• 10 tips for riding country roads
Contact your Ride Coordinator for more specific advice.
Who is my Ride Coordinator?
Every state leg is assigned a Ride Coordinator. They are volunteers, please respect business hours when contacting them. Their contact details are on the main Tasmania 2017 page.
How do I fundraise for this ride?
You can donate directly here: https://black-dog-ride.giveeasy.org/tasmania-2017
You can start fundraising here: https://blackdogride.giveeasy.org/fundraising_event/tas2017/
I have specific dietary requirements, will you cater for this?
Please ensure you state this on the registration form. Black Dog Ride will endeavour to cater for everyone's needs, however due to the locations and costs involved, riders will need to be understanding with the limitations of certain dietary needs within remote parts of Australia.