Embarking on the Ultimate Journey: The Trill of Motorcycle Adventure Riding

rumbux embarking on the ultimate journey blog

There’s an indescribable allure to hitting the open road on two wheels, feeling the wind rush against you, and immersing yourself in the raw beauty of unexplored landscapes. Motorcycle adventure riding offers a unique and exhilarating experience that appeals to the wanderlust in all of us. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey itself, the challenges you overcome, and the memories you create along the way. In this article, we delve into the captivating world of motorcycle adventure riding and explore the reasons why it continues to captivate the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.

Unleashing the Spirit of Exploration

Motorcycle adventure riding is not for the faint of heart. It’s about pushing boundaries, stepping out of your comfort zone, and embracing the unknown. Unlike traditional road trips, adventure riding takes you off the beaten path, allowing you to explore remote areas, rugged terrains, and hidden gems that are often inaccessible by conventional vehicles. Whether it’s traversing winding mountain passes, navigating through dense forests, or tackling challenging off-road trails, each moment becomes a testament to your courage and determination.

A Bond with Your Machine

The relationship between a rider and their motorcycle is unlike any other. Adventure riding takes this bond to a whole new level. Your motorcycle becomes more than just a means of transportation; it becomes your trusted companion, propelling you through the landscapes and sharing in your triumphs. The hours spent fine-tuning your machine, preparing it for the journey ahead, and relying on it to conquer diverse terrains forge an unbreakable connection that goes beyond metal and mechanics.

Embracing the Unexpected

One of the most thrilling aspects of adventure riding is the element of surprise. No matter how meticulously you plan your route, there’s always room for the unexpected. From encountering local wildlife to stumbling upon hidden waterfalls, each detour adds a sense of spontaneity to your journey. These unforeseen moments often become the highlights of your adventure, transforming your ride into a tapestry of unforgettable stories and experiences.

The Resilience Within

Adventure riding is a test of both physical and mental endurance. Navigating through rough terrain, adverse weather conditions, and logistical challenges demands a resilient spirit. As you conquer these obstacles, you not only prove your capabilities to yourself but also gain a renewed sense of confidence that extends beyond the road. The lessons learned on your motorcycle echo in other facets of life, reminding you of your capacity to overcome anything that comes your way.

Connecting with Cultures

One of the most enriching aspects of motorcycle adventure riding is the opportunity to connect with diverse cultures and people. As you ride through remote villages and towns, you interact with locals, share stories, and gain insights into their way of life. These interactions create a bridge between worlds, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the global human experience.

Preserving Nature’s Beauty

Adventure riding instills a profound sense of responsibility for the environment. Riding through pristine landscapes reminds us of the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations. Many adventure riders actively engage in eco-friendly practices, advocating for sustainable tourism and supporting conservation efforts that safeguard the places they explore.

Conclusion

Motorcycle adventure riding is a symphony of adrenaline, exploration, and self-discovery. It’s about breaking free from the constraints of everyday life and immersing yourself in the uncharted. The thrill of conquering challenges, connecting with diverse cultures, and forging an unbreakable bond with your machine makes every adventure ride an experience like no other. So, whether you’re a seasoned rider or someone contemplating their first journey, the allure of motorcycle adventure riding beckons you to embark on a voyage of a lifetime.

Basic Packing Guide for Adventure riding

rumbux basic packing guide for adventure riding blog

Embarking on a motorcycle adventure is a thrilling experience that offers a unique sense of freedom and exploration. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or a weekend getaway, packing the right essentials can make or break your journey. In this guide, we’ll delve into the must-pack items to ensure your motorcycle adventure is safe, enjoyable, and memorable.

  1. Safety First

1.1 Helmet: Your helmet is your most crucial piece of safety gear. Invest in a high-quality helmet that fits well and meets safety standards. It’ll protect your head in case of an accident and shield you from weather elements.

1.2 Riding Gear: Riding jackets, pants, gloves, and boots designed for motorcycling provide protection from wind, rain, and potential falls. Opt for gear with added armor for enhanced safety.

1.3 Reflective Gear: Visibility is key, especially during night rides or adverse weather conditions. Pack reflective vests or stickers to ensure other drivers can see you.

1.4 Crash protection bars.

1.5 Rear protection bars / Pannier bars for your luggage system

  1. Tools and Maintenance

2.1 Basic Toolkit: A toolkit with essential tools such as wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and a tire repair kit can help you address minor mechanical issues on the road.

2.2 Spare Parts: Carry spare fuses, bulbs, and a clutch or brake lever. These small components can save the day if you encounter unexpected issues.

2.3 Tire Maintenance: A portable tire inflator and a pressure gauge are crucial. Maintaining proper tire pressure ensures safety and optimal performance.

  1. Navigation and Communication

3.1 GPS or Map: A reliable navigation system is a must. A GPS device tailored for motorcycles or a smartphone mount with navigation apps can keep you on the right track.

3.2 Communication Device: Carry a fully charged mobile phone with a power bank. Additionally, consider a Bluetooth communication system that allows you to stay connected with fellow riders.

  1. Clothing and Personal Items

4.1 Riding Apparel: Pack weather-appropriate clothing, including layers for varying conditions. Moisture-wicking base layers can keep you comfortable during long rides.

4.2 Camping Gear: If you plan to camp, pack a lightweight tent, sleeping bag, and cooking utensils. These items enable you to embrace the outdoors fully.

4.3 Hygiene Supplies: A compact toiletry kit with essentials like toothbrush, toothpaste, and wet wipes can help you feel fresh even after a day on the road.

4.4 Luggage system for your specific needs.

  1. First Aid Kit and Medications

5.1 First Aid Kit: Prepare a compact first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you might need.

5.2 Personal Health: Stay hydrated and carry snacks to keep your energy levels up. Pack any necessary medications and medical supplies, considering the duration of your trip.

Conclusion

Packing the right essentials for your motorcycle adventure is essential to ensure safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout your journey. From safety gear to communication devices and personal items, each item plays a crucial role in enhancing your experience on the open road. By carefully planning and packing, you can embark on a memorable motorcycle adventure that leaves you with incredible stories and unforgettable moments. So, gear up, hit the road, and make the most of your next two-wheeled escapade!

The road to Honda Quest-True Adventure 2023

rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

By 

Harry Fisher @ ZA Bikers

 – Sep 21, 2022 

rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

Photo credit: Bjorn Moreira / ZA Bikers 

The time has arrived for Honda South Africa to showcase the Africa Twin adventure bike as the Honda Quest True Adventure event kicks off with Road to Quest promotional events at Honda dealerships around the country. 

In previous years, Honda has taken a very low-key approach to the Quest event in terms of exposure to the wider public but, for 2023, the company is determined to start making a bit more noise about it and the Road to Quest events are the first step. 

rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

Photo credit: Bjorn Moreira / ZA Bikers 

Both Honda and non-Honda riders are invited to head to their nearest Honda dealer in order to sample the Africa Twin and encourage people to apply for inclusion in the event. A list of dealers and the dates of when the Quest team will be there is at the bottom of this story. 

Honda will ship four fully-equipped Africa Twin bikes to each dealership which will be available to test ride throughout the week. Honda will also arrange advanced sessions at various training locations around the country, such as at ADA Training and Outdoor Centre near Johannesburg. 

rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

Photo credit: Bjorn Moreira / ZA Bikers 

Quest is an adventure challenge designed to test both rider and motorcycle. Anyone can apply to take part and Honda then whittles the applications – they arrive in their thousands – down to 30 entries. These men and women then spend a weekend at what Honda calls a Boot Camp, which is, by all accounts, run on the lines of a military training camp, designed to test people to their limits to find out how they operate at those limits. 

rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

Photo credit: Bjorn Moreira / ZA Bikers 

A further culling brings the number of entrants to 14 and these riders will then go on to the Quest event itself, which takes place over 8 – 10 days at some point yet to be determined in 2023. 

Riaan Fourie, Head of Motorcycles at Honda SA, said: “Quest is not a race or a rally; it is an adventure to self-discovery, designed to test human endurance and adaptability. You need not be a hardened adventure motorcycle enthusiast to participate.” 

rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

Photo credit: Bjorn Moreira / ZA Bikers 

This is a very important point: Quest is not solely for Roof of Africa or Dakar-quality riders. At previous events, there have been participants who have barely ever ridden an adventure bike, let alone ridden one off-road. The successful applicant is someone who exhibits a willingness to push him or herself to the limits and beyond and work as part of a team. 

“We are looking for people who prefer to take the road less travelled. Those who are resourceful, independent, yet mindful of their fellow human beings – Honda Quest is for you,” continued Riaan. 

rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

Photo credit: Bjorn Moreira / ZA Bikers 

Of course, the people are only half of the story. The other half – some might say the most important part – is the bike itself: the Honda Africa Twin. Honda supplies all participants with a brand new Africa Twin, in DCT form, and the event tests the bike’s abilities as much as it does the participants. 

Riaan Fourie again: “It’s not often that the chance to ride a Honda Africa Twin in its ideal environment comes along, and with Honda Road to Quest, we will be bringing true adventure riding to a town near you.” Also present will be past Quest participants to share their experiences and fire up your enthusiasm. 

rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

hoto credit: Bjorn Moreira / ZA Bikers 

Keep an eye on www.zabikers.co.za for the announcement that registration for Honda Quest 2023 has opened and all other news leading up to the moment when all the teams are flagged away at the start and updates throughout the event. 

The following is a list of the remaining Road to Quest events taking place around the country. Having attended the event at Centurion Honda, we can recommend that you take a couple of hours out of your Saturday and get to the one nearest you. Booking is essential. For more information, keep an eye on Honda Wing SA on Facebook. 

rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

Upcoming Road To Quest Events: 

20/09-25/09 | Honda Menlyn
24/09-25/09 | Honda Quest Event at ADA
27/09-02/10 | Honda Vaal
04/10-09/10 | Honda East Rand Mall
13/10-23/10 | Cape Dealers
15/10-16/10 | Honda Quest Event in Cape Town
25/10-30/10 | Honda George
02/11-06/11 | Honda Port Elizabeth
09/11-13/11 | Honda East London
16/11-20/11 | Honda Bloemfontein
23/11-27/11 | Honda KwaZulu-Natal
26/11-27/11 | Honda Quest Event in KwaZulu-Natal
30/11-04/12 | Honda Brits 

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rumbux the road to honda quest true adventure blog

Harry Fisher 

Harry has been obsessing about motorbikes for over 45 years, riding them for 38 years and writing and talking about them for 13 years. In that time, he has ridden everything from an Aprilia to a Zundapp, from the 1920s to the 2020s. His favourites are the ones that didn’t break down and leave him stranded. While he loves the convenience of modern bikes, he likes nothing better than getting his hands dirty keeping old bikes running, just as long as it’s not by the roadside! Old enough to know better and young enough not to care, he knows you don’t stop riding when you get old, you get old when you stop riding. 

Honda Quest True Adventure 2018

rumbux honda quest true adventrue blog

Honda Quest True Adventure is a challenge designed to give adventure motorcycle enthusiasts a once in a lifetime experience with the ultimate motorcycle, The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, fitted with Rumbux Full Spec Endurance Protection Bars. View

Meet the teams:

Day 10

Honda Quest 2018 Winners are…

But first, the day broke clear and warm and with almost no wind for a change at the camp!

Today would be the shortest and easiest of Honda Quest but no less nerve wracking. The finalists would know who had won only once they arrived for the victory ceremony back where it all began at Kaleo Guest Farm.

It was an emotional entry to the grounds that seemed such a long way off from Bootcamp only a month ago.

After a short round of introductions and interviews with the media and Honda Dealers, the serious and most important bit began.

Hardy had some very kind and inspirational words for Barend and all those from Honda, as well as the support crew and competitors.

Barend Fouche’ from Honda SA was then up. He made the point that the competitors have now just joined a very select group who can call themselves Honda Quest Finishers. He had this to say about the role Honda Quest serves,

“The core part of our business is to sell motorcycles, so besides changing 14 people’s lives, why do we do it?

The simple answer is to help us introduce or convert people to the Honda Africa Twins.

Honda Quest generates interest and excitement through having you guys live a dream. Your journey has and will continue to touch, move and inspire people to go out there and make a difference in their lives.

I look forward to you continuing to help me get more people onto our bikes and living their Adventures.”

Then, with all appropriate thanks given, just like that he called on the winning team;

Team 2: Mojaki Rammoneng and Claude Deyzel.

It was an emotional and unanimous decision. They richly deserved to be the winners and for their efforts, they both get to keep the very bikes they rode the competition on.

Roll on Honda Quest 2019

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Day 9

Sting in the tail!

Today was the Postal Route from the Tankwa side. A challenging route especially for big bikes.

Honda Quests final full day was to be worthy of being called a Quest day. At just over 130km, one of the shorter days but it had everything on offer – thick sand, steep rocky climbs, river crossings, magnificent vistas and drama.

Setting off after a last swim from Die Mond, we made our way north to cross the upper Doring river. A few took an early bath crossing the slippery rocks.

Temperatures already high were still climbing as we made our way through the tough sandy stretches and up Karretjies Pass. One bike going up is not much of an issue, but the track was quite tough once the first 5 or so bikes were through. Once all were through safely, temperatures of 48 degrees were seen.

With this level of heat and exertion, actively managing dehydration and heat stress is critical. On the whole trip with the high temperatures, the contestants were drinking on average at least 6 liters a day, often more.

There were two biggish falls and many punctures (again, a defective tube issue and not the riders fault) but nothing the teams couldn’t shake off or deal with.

Just before Eselbank a refreshing dip into the waterfall of a tributary to the Keurbosfontein River was welcomed and needed.

With the setting sun, we rode into Kromrivier campsite to be welcomed by Barend Fouche’ and Cassels Madingwane of Honda SA and the Specialised Team.

Tomorrow, the final day of Honda Quest 2018

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Honda Adventure Motorcycles
Day 7 (Rest Day) & Day 8

The pace and intensity of Quest takes its toll on both Competitors and Support Crew. The Rest Day is both a tradition and a very much needed break in the relentless pace of the competition.

“Rest Day” is a little misleading as there are still chores to be done; most importantly, as all the bikes were brand new at the start, the critical 1000km service has to be performed. All the contestants, whilst on Boot camp, were given training by a Honda master mechanic to complete the task.

Besides the servicing and washing, an afternoon ride was planned for a very technical climb to the top of a local lookout point was abandoned due to the extreme heat – in the high 40’s! Even catching a late afternoon snooze instead was a tough ask – there wasn’t much escaping the oppressive heat.

Later, the contestants were asked to present their nominations for a worthy Humanitarian Project. The money they pledged was matched tenfold by Hardy de Kock from Specialised Adventures.

Mojaki Rammoneng from Team 2 was the deserved winner for a worthy project that provides Sanitary Pads for school girls who don’t have access to them. The problem forces many girls to miss school over an embarrassment.

Day 8

Essentially, the day was sold as a quick paced liaison to the Cederberg via the Tankwa. The reality was far more fun and spectacular. From the guest farm, a quick technical trail saw some having to pick their bikes up from a quick tumble.

From there, the back roads to Merweville and onto Rammelkop pass to Sutherland kept us busy.

We had been experiencing quite a few punctures through no fault of our own – the tubes clearly had a small defect. The net result was a competition between the instructors and competitors where whomever had the most punctures by the end of the trip would be buying the beer. It wasn’t looking good for the instructors; 5 of the first 6 belonged to them.

Once off the mountains behind Sutherland and onto the Tankwa Karoo proper, it was a quick enjoyable ride to the Tankwa Patstal, an Iconic little stop with a great history that is very welcoming of Adventure Riders. (Their ginger beer is highly recommended!)

Riding into the setting sun, we at last entered the Oasis called Die Mond. A quiet, picturesque small spring fed lake that our tired and dirty bodies were immediately dumped into. It was a proper Quest day that delivered far more than expected.

It was mostly an early evening for all as the next day was to be the sting in the tail!

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Honda Adventure Motorcycles

Day 6

If one thing has been a constant it’s the wind. Although not nearly as ferocious as in previous night’s, we were grateful to be protected somewhat by the camp in the valley called Perdekloof in the Tankwa Karoo National Park.

Setting off, the first climb for the day was Ouberg Pass offering a view far across the Tankwa Karoo. It was an opportunity for reflection and appreciation for some of the spaces we are privileged to in South Africa.

A quick stop in Sutherland for fuel and again to connect with loved ones and maybe to reassure the work colleagues that they haven’t been captured by Adventure forever and will be coming back!

Then, with lunch near Karelskraal Pass a spanner was tossed into the mix; each of the contestants were temporarily re-assigned a new team mate to ride with for the rest of the day. The tricky part was this new partnership was going to have to be forged whilst navigating tight off-the-beaten paths and back roads. It takes quite a bit of trust to ride on ones shoulder at the best of times, even more on tricky routes.

The rest of the route through Goodluck then towards the Karoo proper via Ouberg Pass, lead to a world that has a unique energy and in the late afternoon sun felt ancient and powerful.

We would be staying at Boplaas Guest Farm for two nights. Tomorrow would be a rest day, for both competitors and support team. Honda Quest was taking a well-earned breather – time to service bikes, wash the travel out of ourselves and clothes and to reflect and recharge for the final push.

The teams have made use of the trip so far to make short videos of their experiences. There will be more to come, but for now;

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Lumina Learning UK

Honda Adventure Motorcycles

Day 5

Liaisons, are a necessary part of Adventuring; In the Northern and Western Cape, we are blessed with many truly wondrous places to see, however, it does take some large distances on occasion to join them together.

Today would be the longest single stretch for Honda Quest 2018 at just over 400 kilometers of gravel. Not very technical or difficult, but nothing to sneeze at and challenging nonetheless.

The competitors are scored on a wide variety of aspects on Honda Quest, one of which is the ability to ride safely and efficiently in a large group on gravel. To move 14 competitors, 4 instructors (themselves all contestants from the previous year) – all on Africa Twins – over 400km takes a large amount of concentration, co-ordination and trust to get right. Following in their dust were another 5 support vehicles.

We left Uitspan, a rustic farm camp towards Loeriesfontein in the Great Karoo via the great gravel roads that criss-cross that large expanse of the Great Karoo. Then onto Calvina for a quick snack and a call home to tell loved ones that all’s well. Lastly it was the iconic Gannaga Pass, as the sun was sinking to drink in the great expanse of the Tankwa Karoo that spreads out before it. To make home in Perdekloof in the Tankwa Karoo National Park.

All the competitors have been encouraged to make a short video of their journey so far on Honda Quest 2018 and then to post it onto this page. The idea is to bring a more personal side to this great adventure. As we travel, we have limited access to the internet, so with some luck, the next post will have a list of links to their posts.

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Honda Adventure Motorcycles

Day 4

The routine is becoming the norm; many are from city backgrounds where the challenge of Quest has taken some getting used to. Added to this, the last 3 days have left more of a mark on some than others. Very few, if any, can still claim a clean score sheet regarding trips to Mother Earth. Fortunately, the Africa Twin is made of sterner stuff as only two hand guards are a little worse for wear.

Another terrific unseasonal storm blew into the overnight camp, just outside Springbok, leaving many with precious little sleep. This was a worry for Hardy and his team as safety is a primary concern.

The route started east down Spektakel Pass whilst thunder clouds and lightning threatened. Hardy from Specialised Adventures had threaded together a tricky but scenic route through many private properties that the local farmers had graciously opened their gates for. Fortunately, the stormy cloudy weather was a blessing as just the week before, the recce team had experienced 45 degrees in the same stretch.

It was apparent that the contestants were well and truly bonded with their steeds as there was little trouble now to be had from tricky off camber rock climbs or deep sand tracks.

Just past Tweerivier the group entered the little known Kheis trail; a stunning path that winds its way through the mountains between Kamieskroon and Garies. The whole route prompted one very experienced Adventure Riding contestant to quip once into the camp, “That’s the best day of Adventure Riding I have ever done!”

With another long satisfying day in the saddle and two evenings of sleep deprivation from stormy weather, the teams were given the night off from the planned presentations and tests.

Tomorrow marks only the midway point of the contest. There’s still a long way to go and much to see!

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Day 3

It isn’t getting any easier. Barend Fouche, Head of Motorcycle Division, Southern Africa announced that in his opinion, this year’s Honda Quest was a lot more intense and challenging than 2017’s. He should know, he’s been in the vehicles following all the action on both.

The route today would be one used for the Amageza Rally, a Dakar type motorcycle event.

It runs through little used sections of the Western side of the Richtersveld and is arguably even more remote than the previous day.

Before the route proper, there was the opportunity to reflect on things and have a quiet moment in a balancing stone garden. A local take on the old tradition of cairn building where the contestants were invited to leave a rock in memory of something that needed to be left there.

Reflections over, the serious business of navigating the technical sandy riverbeds, long rocky tracks and steep off camber rutted climbs was the order of the day.

There many opportunities to test the sturdy Rumbux bashplates and engine guards. Many contestants, now over the adrenaline fueled beginnings of the contest, were drawing on deep reserves for both them and their partners.

Although technically all the teams are in competition against each other, there is a very firm greater team spirit building. Helping all to get through was the priority.

The last 80km was fast flowing jeep track, a welcome respite from the pace of the previous two days where the average overall speed was just over 20kph.

Honda Quest is now 3 days in with 7 to go. The strain is showing, there were some tired bodies that fell instantly asleep once they’d finished the day.

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Specialised Adventures
Kalon Films
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Expedition Medics
GoGravel
Rumbux
Metzeler Motorcycle Tyres SA
Lumina Learning UK

Honda Adventure Motorcycles

Day 3

It isn’t getting any easier. Barend Fouche, Head of Motorcycle Division, Southern Africa announced that in his opinion, this year’s Honda Quest was a lot more intense and challenging than 2017’s. He should know, he’s been in the vehicles following all the action on both.

The route today would be one used for the Amageza Rally, a Dakar type motorcycle event.

It runs through little used sections of the Western side of the Richtersveld and is arguably even more remote than the previous day.

Before the route proper, there was the opportunity to reflect on things and have a quiet moment in a balancing stone garden. A local take on the old tradition of cairn building where the contestants were invited to leave a rock in memory of something that needed to be left there.

Reflections over, the serious business of navigating the technical sandy riverbeds, long rocky tracks and steep off camber rutted climbs was the order of the day.

There many opportunities to test the sturdy Rumbux bashplates and engine guards. Many contestants, now over the adrenaline fueled beginnings of the contest, were drawing on deep reserves for both them and their partners.

Although technically all the teams are in competition against each other, there is a very firm greater team spirit building. Helping all to get through was the priority.

The last 80km was fast flowing jeep track, a welcome respite from the pace of the previous two days where the average overall speed was just over 20kph.

Honda Quest is now 3 days in with 7 to go. The strain is showing, there were some tired bodies that fell instantly asleep once they’d finished the day.

Honda SA
Specialised Adventures
Kalon Films
Nomad Bike Bags
Expedition Medics
GoGravel
Rumbux
Metzeler Motorcycle Tyres SA
Lumina Learning UK

Honda Adventure Motorcycles

Day 2

The evening had been a thorough adventure of another sort as a massive wind had torn through the camp just as supper was being made and continued right through the night; Nature, not content to offer up the wonderful treasures of the desert sand trails, saw fit to liberally sprinkle more sand on all of us through the night (and supper).

The Namaqua Eco Trail often features in the top 3 Desert Adventures for both 4×4’s and Dual Sport bikes in South Africa. Far less bikes take on the challenge simply because deep sand is not so easy and fewer still would even consider it on a big Litre Class Adventure machine like the Honda Africa Twin.

But, as Honda Quest is all about finding the ultimate Adventurer, sand skills are a must and where better to test them?

In the early morning the teams were riding well with the “sand monster” claiming only the odd tip over from time to time. (Sand Monster = a term many used to personify the fears many have with sand riding)

It was just before midday that the first major test appeared; Several kilometers of dry riverbed that snaked its way up a canyon section. The starkly beautiful walls trapped and reflected the heat of the midday sun making it a doubly formidable challenge. Any mistakes being punished by the heat and the watchful eyes of the instructors. An added degree of difficulty was that for it to be considered a clean run, the contestants had to stay in the much more difficult 4×4 track, rather than the easier method of riding on virgin sand.

What followed was 60km of rocky climbs and sandy riverbeds all presented in the iconic vistas of the Orange River and Richtersveld Mountains.

A few found their limits, yet soldiered on, not willing to throw in the towel and jump into the Cruiser, effectively ending their and their partners Honda Quest. Notably, quite a few had very little sand experience and with the odd helping hand as well as some judicious advice can now call themselves veterans of the Namakwa Eco Trail

Once into the camp on the banks of the Orange River at Oewerbos, they still weren’t finished for the day. The next challenge was a 7km paddle. Whilst refreshing after the heat, as if they’d not already done enough, their arms were given another workout.

All competitors were, prior to arriving on Quest, were given unique and diverse topics of interest yet all relevant to the sections of the routes we would be travelling. Every evening one or two of them would be required to present a 10 minute talk on their topic…, even after such a tough day.

Sleep came easy after that!!!!

Tomorrow they will be riding the Western side of the Richtersveld, a far more rockier prospect!

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Metzeler Motorcycle Tyres SA
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Honda Adventure Motorcycles
 

Day 1

Day one was planned to be an easy entry into the joys of Richtersveld desert riding; Easy gravel to for the first half to find their feet so to speak, then a reasonably short section of the fabled Namakwa Eco trail to make friends with the sandy remote jeep trails next to the Orange River.

The challenging trail is a mix of rocky tracks and sandy river beds witnessed by the massive desert mountains that flank the River as it winds its way towards the ocean along the border of South Africa and Namibia.

For many this is a first for many things; deserts, sand, over 40 degree heat and powerful big adventure bikes.

Some found the introduction a steep learning curve.

Being a desert there is little respite from the sun, so the day was cooled by a dip in the cool waters of the Orange river.

For those that found the sand hard going an impromptu coaching session was held on a plateau overlooking the river.

Tomorrow is the heart of the trail with many long sandy sections, steep rocky climbs and iconic panoramic views.

Honda SA
Specialised Adventures
Kalon Films
Nomad Bike Bags
Expedition Medics
GoGravel
Rumbux
Metzeler Motorcycle Tyres SA
Lumina Learning UK

Honda Quest True Adventure is a challenge designed to give adventure motorcycle enthusiasts a once in a lifetime experience with the ultimate motorcycle, The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, fitted with Rumbux Full Spec Endurance Protection Bars. View

Meet the teams:

Honda Quest True Adventure is a challenge designed to give adventure motorcycle enthusiasts a once in a lifetime experience with the ultimate motorcycle, The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, fitted with Rumbux Full Spec Endurance Protection Bars. View

Meet the teams:

Natal Dual Bike Adventure (NDBA)

rumbux natal dual bike adventure blog

1-4 November 2018

The Natal Dual Bike Adventure is less than a month away. NDBA will host its 3rd Annual event at Mont Aux Sources Hotel (Orion Hotels), The Cavern Road, Northern Drakensberg between Harrismith and Bergville, KZN.

Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, this landmark property is easily accessible from Johannesburg and Durban. The Mont Aux Sources Hotel borders the renowned Royal Natal National Park and offers magnificent views of the world-famous Amphitheater. The Drakensberg is home to many world heritage sites and is the second most photographed destination in southern Africa.

This is the only event in KZN that caters for all makes of bikes that are registered on the road and we offer technical and non-technical gravel routes that are also pillion-friendly. Two days of great riding on Green -, Red – or Black routes will be on offer.

Directions to Mount Aux Source Hotel

GPS: S -28.6618308 | E 28.9993167

Distance from Mount Aux Source Hotel –
Bloemfontein 399km
Durban 283km
Johannesburg 341km

What to bring:
• Puncture repair kit, tube
• Camelback or water bottle
• GPS or else follow your riding buddy. No Maps available!

We offer –

  • Green, red and black routes
  • the opportunity for all brands of bikes to get together at the same event
  • routes that can be appreciated by nature lovers
  • great food & comfortable accommodation
  • Entertainment
  • Lucky Draws

Dates:
Dates:
1/2-4 November 2018 (You have the option to arrive Friday morning as rides will only depart by 10h00)

Enter here!

Closing date – Friday, 19 October 2018

Honda Quest 2018 – Bootcamp Highlights

rumbux honda quest 2018 bootcamp blog

Congratulations to our Quest 2018 finalists. Just what it took to claim their seat was an intensive 3-day semi-final Bootcamp. Quest Boot Camp took place in Cape Town from the 1-3 October 2018.

See the finalists here.

Good luck – you will need it.

Here are some of the Bootcamp Highlights:
Photo credits: MonoMoto photography 

KTM Adventure Rally 2018

rumbux ktm adventure rally

KTM Adventure Bike Rally 2018 – Lugogo Sun Swaziland

KTM South Africa made history by hosting the first sell out Adventure Rally that the orange brand has seen.
The event took place in Swaziland from 23-25 August and was one of six locations chosen by KTM to showcase some of the most scenic and adventurous trails on earth.
Close to 300 riders arrived at Lugogo Sun Hotel for registration on Thursday, with the likes motorsport legends Lyndon Poskitt, Ross Branch and Alfie Cox in the mix.

Photo highlights:

From Around the Web: 10 awesome photos of Rumbux

rumbux from around the web blog

1. Peter Ricci in Argentina – KTM 1290 Super Adventure T

rumbux from around the web blog

2. Leonard van Greunen in South Africa – BMW R1200GS LC

rumbux from around the web blog

3. Gavin Brown in SE Oregon, USA – Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L

rumbux from around the web blog

4. Eric Martinez in USA – KTM 1190 Adventure / Adventure R

rumbux from around the web blog

5. Matt Williamson in United Kingdom – Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L

rumbux from around the web blog

6. Roger English in United Kingdom –  Yamaha XT1200Z

rumbux from around the web blog

7. Trevor James in California, USA – KTM 1190 Adventure / Adventure R

rumbux from around the web blog

8. Andrew Taylor in USA – KTM 1190 Adventure / Adventure R

rumbux from around the web blog

9. Deon Lak in Lesotho – BMW R1200GS LC

rumbux from around the web blog

10. Fabien in Canada – KTM 1290 Super Adventure T

rumbux from around the web blog

If you want you photo to be added to our list please send them to biancab@rumbux.com

Private: GS Trophy South Africa 2018

rumbux gs trophy south africa blog

The GS Trophy South Africa 2018 took place in Montague in the Western Cape 9 – 13 May

The overall winners were announced after a thrilling Saturday session that saw the men’s team from the Inland region, Carl-Reinhardt Cronje, Dalton de Bruin and Roelof Schutte, top the points table, while the ladies’ winning team comprised Antoinette Janse van Rensburg,Charine van Niekerk and Lezanne Truter.

Here are some photos taken at the 2018 GS Trophy South Africa:

International GS Trophy 2018

rumbux international gs trophy blog

With 2350km traveled across eight days, the 2018 BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy had completed it’s loop of Mongolia, and the South African team came out on top on the final day. Second place was the USA team, while France completed the top three

With 2350km traveled across eight days, the 2018 BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy had completed it’s loop of Mongolia, and the South African team came out on top on the final day. Second place was the USA team, while France completed the top three

1. South Africa: 338
2. USA: 286
3. France: 284
4. Latin America: 246
5. Mexico: 236
6. Korea: 221
7. United Kingdom: 196
8. Germany: 193
9. Russia: 171
10. Australia: 170
11. Argentina: 162
12. Southeast Asia: 155
13. China: 144
14. Canada: 137
15. AusAmerica (Women’s Team): 125
16. Japan: 122
17. EurAfrica (Women’s Team): 116
18. India: 113

https://www.youtube.com/embed/OYshX-EXY_U?feature=oembed