Simmer Dim Motorcycle Rally 2023
Special Report Charles Deakin
Simmer Dim Rally held this year 15th – 18th June is the most northerly motorcycle rally in the UK. It attracts around 300 bikers from far and wide to enjoy midsummer in Shetland. The Simmer Dim Rally is famous for its superb atmosphere as Charles was about to experience.........
A Northlink ferry sails from Aberdeen, sailing time 12 hour 30 mins!
Charles takes up the story.....
"When I booked the rally in February, I didn't realise what to expect after seeing videos of 2022 where the weather up there was terrible.
So with some trepidation, with bags packed, I set off up the A1 to Washington, Co Durham. After a biblical storm, I arrived at my hotel late evening. Tuesday was spent visiting relatives and meeting Colin and Val from the North Durham (HOC) branch.
Wednesday morning, Colin met me at the hotel and joined me on the ride to Edinburgh along the A68. Colin then returned home and I continued on to Aberdeen. Quick check in and the bike was loaded ready for the 12-hour crossing. After talking to Phil and Drew from Yorkshire, we retired to the nearest pub for some well-earned refreshments. Thankfully, the crossing was very calm and we arrived at 7.30am the next day.
Gandalf was there.......
It was a short ride to the rally at Ollaberry where we signed in, pitched the tent and collected our beer tokens. I then had a short ride to Lerwick for sightseeing, provisions and petrol.
Friday was a organised ride out led by Declan who didn't drink alcohol. Thankfully, only 4 people turned up, so it was a very easy 40-mile ride to the West coast and a stop in the Cake Fridge for tea and cake.
Saturday, I ventured to the Southern tip of the Island to Sumburgh Head. This is a nature reserve with puffins, seals and many other types of birds. Access is via crossing the main airport. Watch out for planes.
Revellers were forced to drink without using their hands
Sunday, after packing all my stuff and locking my keys in the top box. I finally made it to the ferry ready for the journey home. Again, the weather was very good and the boat trip was calm.
Monday, we arrived in Aberdeen to heavy rain, fog and a 542-mile trip home. Thankfully the rain didn't last long and the sunshine returned. I finally got home 11.5hours later !!
What can I say about this rally. I met lots of different bikers, for some it was their first experience like me and we had a fantastic time.
For the price of the Rally, I got 25 beer tokens ( 1 per beer), free food every night, 7 local bands over 3 evenings, free phone charging, showers and lots of fun.
I am not sure how they do it, but I am already contemplating returning for their 40th next year".
Charles
