31 Adventure Motorcyclists joined SA Adventure and BMW Motorrad Sandton teams for an exhilarating outride to the Vredefort Dome on February 4th. The riders met at the Sandton BMW Motorrad dealership at 7 am for a coffee and a chat, after that we had a short rider briefing and it was side stands up at 8 am as the group set off towards the Vredefort Dome.
The first part of the route was on tarred roads, but as soon as we were out of the hustle and bustle of the city, we turned onto the gravel. The transformation from the smooth asphalt to the rugged terrain added an extra layer of excitement to the ride. The dust kicked up by the bikes created a hazy cloud behind us, blending with the golden hues of the surrounding landscape. As we weaved through the winding path, the thrill of adventure permeated the air, and the freedom of the open road became even more palpable. The Vredefort Dome, with its ancient history and natural beauty, awaited us at the end of this dusty trail, promising an unforgettable experience for all the riders.
The skill level of the riders in the group varied from advanced to novice, and for a few of the riders, it was their first time riding off-road. The more experienced riders rode with our lead rider, Josh, who skilfully navigated the terrain. The intermediate riders rode mid-group with Nadine and the novice riders rode with our most experienced sweep rider, Tim, who offered assistance and tips to those new to off-road riding.
As the group continued, the dynamic landscape provided a thrilling experience for everyone, with the more technical sections presenting some challenges for the advanced riders and more forgiving options to provide a gentle introduction to off-road riding for the novices.
The camaraderie among the riders was evident as they supported each other through the varying difficulties of the ride. The journey to the Vredefort Dome was not just about reaching the destination but also about the shared experience of conquering the off-road adventure together.
Our support vehicle, manned by Fungai and Molly, provided much-needed support to riders along the way, ensured that the riders had medical and mechanical support, and provided some cold water to drink at some of the regroup stops.
Riding into the Vredefort Dome, a sense of accomplishment and awe swept over the riders. The timeless beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage Site served as a perfect reward for their exhilarating journey. The stunning landscape stretched out before them, and they took a moment to bask in the natural wonder of the meteor impact site created 2 billion years ago. The combination of the ride and the breathtaking scenery of the Vredefort Dome created a truly unforgettable experience for all adventure motorcycle enthusiasts.
The riders received a warm welcome from the friendly staff at Thabela Thabeng. They were offered cold beverages, scrumptious burgers, and chips to satisfy their hunger. The atmosphere was relaxed and jovial as the group gathered to share their favourite moments from the ride. Laughter filled the air as they exchanged anecdotes about conquering challenging terrain and admired the stunning beauty of Vredefort Dome.
The riders, who had come from various backgrounds and skill levels, bonded over their shared love for riding and the thrill of exploring new frontiers in the company of like-minded individuals. The experience of exploring the Vredefort Dome on motorcycles was not just about the physical act of riding but also about the sense of camaraderie and connection that comes from being part of a community of adventure seekers.
After refuelling with delicious food and drinks, the riders took some time to explore the Thabela Thabeng lodge, taking in the serene surroundings and enjoying the staff's warm hospitality. They also took this opportunity to mingle and chat with fellow riders, exchanging tips and stories from their own adventures. After lunch, it was time to head home. Despite the dust and grime from the off-road excursion, the riders' spirits were high, fuelled by a sense of achievement and bond forged through their shared experience.
The outride to the Vredefort Dome had been not only a thrilling off-road adventure but also a testament to the strong community of riders who supported and encouraged each other throughout the journey. Fond memories created during this exhilarating Sunday ride serve as a reminder of the boundless spirit of adventure that unites all who dare to explore the road less travelled.
Below is a short clip of some of the riding we get to do along the route of this incredible outride. If you would like to join our next one, make sure you check out our events page on our website or subscribe to our social media channels to keep up to date with all our news...
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Keep the Rubber Side Down
Big Love, the SA Adventure Team.