TRM trail bikes have steadily become more popular with fishos.  Once they get used to them they almost give up walking.

The main advantage, apart from carrying their bag limit back, is that the bikes increase their range of pools accessible.  It is a long walk up to Kamahi or Stag Pools only to find another angler already there.  But with a bike it is not a problem – they just bike on up to Cattle Rustlers or wherever.

On right is Trev Hanover from Melbourne returning on his bike.

One alternative use we had not anticipated is as transport tired to the Tavern or Rust Bar to aid their recovery and tell lies.

They like the idea of being able to have their medicinal refreshment without worrying about speeding or being caught having exceeded the limit on the way home.

It is an easy safe trip as there are level paths all the way and even a biking subway under the main SH 1 road.

Late last year an inmate Catherine arrived on a knee scooter and zoomed around TRM in style despite a foot injury encased in plaster.

SWMBO was recovering from a broken ankle at the time as well.

So now we have a new quirky addition to the fleet.

A scooter that is specially made for older anglers suffering from mobility problems.  Replacement knees and hips are almost commonplace among TRM’s older set of anglers.  Many years spent stumbling over the boulders along the Tongariro River leave their toll.

So now TRM are trialing a similar scooter to provide for older anglers when their mobility to get around the pools is limited.  TRM’s elderly frail “model” ancient angler below recently had an ankle replacement (his 4th!) so was experimenting on the best way to get from TRM down to the river trails.  Might need some fat track tyres though?  Note the rod tube and front basket to contain the fishing gear, vest, landing net and fish bags, whatever.  The handlebars swivel down to fit in any reasonable sized car boot.  Very cool…