Weekend Warriors

Richards Bay to Ntumeni (Khamba Pot) and back

2011-01-25T11:27:00.012+02:00

The route, Richards Bay - Empangeni - Eshowe - Ntumeni - 130km

Ntomeni - Goedetrou Dam- Mhlatuzana- Empangeni - Richards Bay - 140km

Departed 06h15 Richards Bay - arrived at Kumba Pot - 12h00

Left Kumba Pot - 13h15 - arrived in Richards Bay 19h00

Ekuphumuleni Mission area.

Mhlatuzana area

Pit stop at Mkono stream

Kumba Pot for Lunch and re-fuel

Outside Eshowe one of the side-by-sides clipped a tree stump. Some damage to the steering rack & pinion housing.

Some Days start better than others

2010-10-26T08:58:00.000+02:00

Q + A : What to eat on race day

2010-10-18T10:10:00.000+02:00

What to eat on race day

Q

I am new to cycling and I am not sure what I should be eating for breakfast before one-day events and what I should eat/ drink during such an event. My ride usually lasts 2-3 hours. Please advise.

A

The goal of your breakfast is to top up your glycogen stores after the overnight fast, and so should be primarily carbohydrate-rich foods.

Depending on your tolerance and the amount of time available to you prior to the start, the portion that you eat may vary, but it makes sense that you should eat as much as you can at this time. This is particularly so if you find you are unable to fuel regularly throughout the race.

So a good breakfast could be a large bowl of oats porridge (made with milk to contribute a good value of protein) with a large glass of fruit juice. You may then like to have a bottle of your favourite energy drink to sip on whilst making your way to the start. Then from the start of the race you should aim to fuel at regular intervals using your choice fuel to provide approximately 30-60g of carbs per hour.

These can be given in the form of fluids or solids, and in fact a mixture of each would be ideal. An average energy bar and 500ml of most sports drinks will provide about 30g carbs. Any additional fluid requirements can be met with water.

The goal is to keep topping up your stores to prevent the drop in blood sugars which brings the onset of fatigue as it is very difficult to correct this without some impact on your performance. Ideally a strategy should be calculated individually during training sessions to avoid trying anything new on the day.

Article : Hardtail or Soft?

2010-08-10T10:22:00.002+02:00

Since the dawn of time, mountain bikers have been debating the merits of hardtails versus full - sussers.Well, since the dawn of useful rear suspension, anyway, which was the mid -1990's. Ask around and you won’t find any fence- sitters on this one– you are either a rigid rigid follower, or a suspensions of tie .No middle ground.

So why do manufacturers still pour thousands of research and design bucks into new hardtails for their ranges? If full suspension was the way to go, surely it is time to trash the moulds and focus purely on plush? Fortunately,we are not quite there yet.There is still plenty of room in the market for the hardtail – it has two areas where it clobbers the full-suspension brigade hands-down: race performance and price. Full-suspension bikes are still, as a rule, between one and two kilograms heavier than similarly-specced hardtails.

This weight difference grows when you compare by price rather than spec – a R15 000 hardtail will boast race-winning componentry, yet a full-susser for the same price will be a boat anchor, by comparison. Yes, it is possible to buy a sub-9kg full-suspension bike, but it will cost you as much as a small car. For the purpose of this article, let’s concentrate on affordable bikes!

More, from the Bicycling website......

Ride Reports : Fish Eagle forest trail

2010-08-02T11:14:00.001+02:00

2 reports by email, after rides on the newly-created Fish Eagle Trail....

Report #1 by Stef

I died 3 times. I almost killed Adriano on the narrow bridge and ate Vincent’s gel. Through the loose sand Adriano and Vincent were riding in front of me when a sand monster came out, grabbed me and sucked me into the sand. Luckily I was able to poke him in the eye with my pump and I could escape. This is the only reason Adriano and Vince had to wait for me. It had nothing to do with my 97kg digging my tyres into the sand.

Later that day Vincent fell asleep while we were talking to him, and I had the best beer(s) of the whole week.

Report #2 by Indi

Hi All,
I went out on the Saturday trip and had a good walkout. Just that after a quarter of the cycle I lost the team, either due to my pace or lack thereof. Needless to say it was then just me against the elements. I ended up taking the 16km loop as I was clueless where the 25km loop was (relying solely on my instinct given we did this at night!). It was a bit uncomfortable at times going through the isolated areas. Overall though I was content with my workout.

My appeal is that we should maintain the ‘Broke Chain Gang’ approach doing these trips together. At least 2 should be available for these cycles.

Looking forward to the next trip.
PS. I am still trying to get my bike out off reverse gear

A duo of Ride Reports : ILLOVO-ESTON

2010-08-01T10:30:00.007+02:00

A trio of Team Flying Jellies, just before the start of the

18K race; we were joined at the event by Tee Jelly who

breezed thru the 40K, and Martijn, who stopped along the

way to assist an eplileptic rider (!)

Tennis Jelly and Capn Jelly, at the finish, just before

collecting our free frosties (no kidding!)

Report #1 by Aroon
Dabz, Bear and Yours Truly decided to make the trip up to the Mtidlands to ride ILLOVO-ESTON 18K event, once we got informed that our preferred race, the Dolphin Surf Mile Series event had been cancelled again, due to continued "sardine activity"....

Bear hired a GIANT Escaper from Cyclesphere in Winderemere Rd, and was very content with his ride and their service - it was his first offroad event, and he'll definitely be back for more! I sensed that the knuckle-whitening descents had something to do with that :)

Dabz is becoming somewhat of a veteran, riding in his 3rd offroad event this year, on Heidi's trusty Silverback. I had serviced the bike after the Big5 Mtunzini event, during which the chain had jumped off 8 times! This time round, there were no mechanical problems experienced at all, making for an enjoyable, hassle-free ride....

My CALOI, purchased from De Jesus, shaped very nicely, leaving me especially pleased with the level of confidence afforded by the downhill performance of the disc brakes.

The event was a WHOPPER in terms of attendance, which was probably around 3 thousand riders (!) and should be an auto-include into anyone's race schedule, except that you should pre-enter so that you might get into an early race batch.....

Report #2 by Tertius
This past weekend I attended the Illovo Eston MTB day and what an event! A mass turnout close to 3400 saw cyclists battle it out over 60km, 40km, 18km and 10km. A wise man told me to stick to the 18km race - which I found very challenging with lots of ‘walkout’ hills and fast descends. A couple of ‘comrades’ managed to flatten some parts of the bumpy track in the event meeting with mother earth (“koop ‘n plaas”). The 18km route took us through the Tala game reserve where I saw a few ‘Rooi bokke’ along the way with one daring Ostrich charging past in a race to the finish line – I’m convinced she took short cut..!

All in all, this event was well organized with good support from locals and suppliers of needy refreshments etc. A race I will definitely add to my MTB race calendar for next year.

Article : Zen Cycling

2010-07-30T08:32:00.003+02:00

Check this great article I found about safe riding on the roads.....courtesy of http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/

Riding Zen means nothing more than being keenly aware of your surroundings and in control of your emotional state at all times. It also means riding safe and riding smart.

Don’t give up your right to ride, just don’t be dead right. Namaste.

Ride Report : Baynesfield July 2010

2010-07-05T14:34:00.002+02:00

I rode the Baynesfield (near Pietermaritzburg) 45km Classic yesterday – it was tough with “MANY” seemingly unending long climbs – I’ve never stayed so long in granny gear. The course was tough and very technical in places with single track (loose sand) through the forest and another long 10km single track alongside a small river at the end. There were places where you had to carry your bike and there were also many small plank bridges across quite deep donga’s (ditches) – scary stuff. I saw quite a few guys walking back having come off their bikes, another young lady came off on a steep descent (suffered concussion) with quite a few people complaining that the route was just too tough.
I battled with cramps towards the end of the race – not sure that I’d do the 45 again, maybe the shorter 25km route.

We also had a helicopter overhead as the race will be televised.

I met Tertius (sporting ZMSC colours) at the start and end of my ride – he fortunately did the 25km which he quite enjoyed.

Report by Craig U

Ride Report : Big 5 Heatonville MTB Classic

2010-06-28T14:42:00.001+02:00

Clinton, Neil, Hayden and I rode the Heatonville Big 5 ride on Sunday – tough course but beautiful. It had everything from hills (that’s why they call it mountain biking, I suppose), gravel road, jeep tracks, km’s of single tracks (excellent), a river crossing (see the photo’s in the attached letter) and lots of thorns. I suffered a rear wheel puncture with 3km’s to go so battled with pumping it up all the time as I did not want to change the tube with such a short distance left.

I stripped the tyre last night and found a few thorns which created the problem. On a whim, and because I’m getting quite good at this now, I decided to strip the front wheel.

I found another 3 thorns which had punctured my slime tube. The slime worked on the day as my tyre was still hard but it would most probably have deflated on the next ride.

So, after a ride, check those tubes.

Craig U

Big 5 Mtunzini Super Classic MTB race - 30 May 2010

2010-05-31T23:30:00.005+02:00

Lined up at the rear of the 25K start - our crew is getting beeger!!!!

The event is the first in the 2010 Big 5 MTB series and it was a good one for the novices amongst us - besides the early hillclimb to warm up the legs, and a couple more along the route, the race wasn't too tough, over the 25K distance.

According to the riders in our crew, the 2 single-track sections in the forests of Mtunzini was everyone's favourite.

Before the start, Dabz and Craig, squinting in the morning winter sun....

A, showing off with his "new" bike, courtesy of Adriano, who upgraded to a GIANT XTC....

The bike frame is CALOI, which is a Brazilian brand, and the components are Shimano DEORE, which I found to be very consistent and reliable during this event, even though conditions were not too testing....

I have a feeling that my riding position on the bike needs a proper setup - my legs were cramping late in the race, and some soreness in my right hammy lasted well after the finish....

Adriano "it CAN be lighter....", posing with his new steed after the race .... rumour has it that the bike shop were glad to see the bike roll out of the store, due to all the specialized parts sourcing they were required to do to get the XTC in the shape that Carlos was looking for....

Adriano had a strong ride, again, and it was fun trying to keep up, especially on the descents, which he absolutely BOMBS down!

Craig, having had much more fun on this event, than the last one....Craig and I stopped to help fix the snapped chain on Bruce's TREK - Craig's multitool + chainbreaker combination once again came in handy, and Bruce was quite prepared to pay over R100 in cash for a master link! (we let him off with a round of drinks at the finish....)

Team-mates? I am not only your partner......Thaven is definitely progressing, physically, but he also didn't carry all his gear - no masterlink, no chain tool :(

Dressed like PROs .... soon, we'll perform like em too ;) Dabz accompanied me on the drive up to Zini, from Durban and we both agreed that Zini is a lovely place, to stay, and to recreate.....

Dabz, after persevering with a slipping chain, and finishing well amongst the backmarkers....he enjoyed the event despite the mechanical trouble, and is eagerly awaiting the next one.

Tour D'Urban - 1 May 2010

2010-05-31T23:04:00.009+02:00

Minal, Mehul, Aroon, Thaven, Adriano and Craig, lining up for the start of the Tour Durban - except for the 2 racing snakes on the left of the photo, the rest of us in the pic did the 25K event.

Numerous adventures ensued during our longest ever 25K - lasting about 3 hours long, due to a rider with reduced blood sugar levels, a fall resulting in a fractured collar bone and pelvis and a snapped chain.

Greg had a bad fall after about 5K, and fractured his collarbone and his pelvis!

Helping to evacuate Greg's GIANT.... there were a few blokes on BMX offroad motorbikes who were great at providing support - they swept the rear of the field, giving encouragement, and to the guy who helped get Greg's bike back to the start area : Thanks, mate! You're a star!

Thaven, helping to repair my Silverback's snapped chain. Amongst the 4 of us, riding together, we had only 1 chain tool and no master link! Hopefully this helped us learn some lessons about ride prep - watch this space for some tips on the gear you should include in your race kit.....

Craig, and Thaven, conquering one of the many demanding climbs....

Craig, Thaven and Adriano drove down from Richards Bay on the morning of the race, and joined my for lunch at our new home in Durban North. We had hoped to take a cruise in the Chevy and grab a few frosties in the neighbourhood....the Chevy refused to co-operate, but thats another story :(

MTB event : Outsurance KZN Expedition - 22 November 09

2009-11-19T08:28:00.005+02:00

The 2nd Outsurance KZN Expedition for the year takes place this Sunday 22 November, and I am planning to ride the 40kays from Inanda Dam to Suncoast Casino, with a few friends, some new and some old....should be a BLAST!!!!

Riding Mt Edgecombe - Tracks and Elevation

2009-11-19T08:23:00.002+02:00

Check out the GPS tracks and elevations we covered during our ride a coupla weekends ago....

Mamba Season at Holla

2009-11-19T08:18:00.001+02:00

Please check out this blog post, especially if you are going to ride at Holla Trails, Ballito....

MAMBAWATCH...

It's that time of year. I've been hearing the mamba stories , a few guys have bumped into them recently. The beginning of summer is the time they start moving. I've been involved with two films where we've had to work extensively with Bnlack mambas, so I haven a good idea of what they can do.

No Nemo! NOT the DROPOFF!

2009-11-11T15:24:00.002+02:00

Check out Tej pull up at the dropoff, then show it who's da boss!

Offroad again! But, sans engines!!!!

2009-11-11T08:57:00.002+02:00

Weekend Warrior got offroad again after a LONG sabbatical, but this time under his own power....on a mountain bike!

Mehul aka Racing Snake and Tej hit the dirt....

Tej, enjoying the magical scenery and the great company....

a pic for my mom - can you believe I hooked up with Mehul again!!?!!!

Riding essential tip #17 : always replace your carbs once your ride is done....

Gallery : Mud Racing Tips !

2008-11-11T10:02:00.003+02:00

Click the pic to view a fantastic gallery of mud busting quads, including this "QuadZilla" !!! This is how they roll Stateside ! YeeHaa !

The link, and picture courtesy of Quad Magazine

Ride Report – Belvedere Game Ranch

2008-11-05T11:18:00.006+02:00

Belvedere Game Ranch is situated 190 km to the north from Richards Bay and about 30 km from Pongola. Follow the N2 north towards Mkuze and then 20 km past the Mkuze intersection you turn left onto the R69 gravel road. Follow this road for 22 km. At the split in the road after about 20 km, keep to your right and stay on the R69 for another 2 km’s. You will see the entrance to Belvedere on your right hand side. Drive through the gate and follow the road into the farm for about 1 km until you reach the farm house where Cobus and Karen Venter will receive you and give directions the lodge.

Belvedere is a game farm of +- 1900 hectares stocked with a variety of game including Kudu, Nyala, Impala, Worthog, Bushbuck, Zebra, Blouwildebees and Duiker. It is mainly a Game and Hunting Farm during the winter and they are exploring the option to utilize it during the rest of the year for quad and bike adventures. We were the first to ride here and give some feedback on the quality of the ride. There is not an official set of rules yet, but the idea is that riders will treat the environment with respect, stay on the many tracks available and not go cross country, no racing and watch out for game that might cross the road. This make for a true family getaway and relaxed riding.

The lodge is situated in the center of the farm surrounded buy lush bushveld and accommodation is in 4 comfortable rooms that includes a shower and toilet in each of the rooms. The showers in each room are fed with gas geysers that are very welcome after a hard days riding. Two of the rooms sleep 3 and the other two rooms sleep 2. There is also a separate room that formed part of the old camp that can sleep a further three people.

There is a separate central kitchen and dining area with gas fridge and freezer. There is no electricity in the camp, but all lights are fed from a central connection point that you fit to your vehicle. Everything that you will need in terms of crockery and cutlery are provided for and there is a well setup braai area where all the stories of the day are told around you camp fire. Prices for adults are currently R150 pppn and R80 pppn for children under 12. No additional cost for Quads and bikes.

The farms has a network of bush tracks of about 100km in total. We spent a total of about 7 hours on the bikes over the two days and covered a total distance of 105km. We probably only got to ride about 50% of the roads available. The best way to explore these roads is obviously with your GPS, but you very quickly get orientated in finding your way around and back to the camp. Cobus is planning to map out some of the tracks to make it a bit easier for those with a lack of direction or without a GPS.

You will find a variety of types of tracks to ride ie. grassy new tracks, rocky terrain, sandy river beds and some steep climbs. The dry riverbed is ideal terrain for the quads to explore, but it needs some clearing of bush in some areas to fully utilize it. Maybe it just needs a few utility quads and time to create a trail up the riverbed, but the two wheelers where not the correct gear for this job. This is something to discuss with Cobus on your arrival.

I also found a large rocky area next to one of the trails that I could not resist. I slowly climbed up this rock for about 40 meters with my GasGas for a photo opportunity. This will make a great area to do some technical stuff with bikes and quads. I looked at the vegetation in the area and I could not find much that could be damaged, but this is something else we need to check with Cobus before it is done.

Then there is the viewpoint that must be visited at sunset. We only had overcast afternoons and could not see the sun set, but I can just imagine that this is the perfect place to end off a days ride. From this vantage point you can look over the bush and dream of the new quad or bike that you are going to buy when you get back to civilization or how you will tell you boss on Monday why your weekend had to be extended with another day.

During the day we passed many Impala, Kudu, Nyala and Worthog that just added to the true bush experience. It was also great to take some snacks and drinks with to take a break every now and then and just relax off the bikes in the bush. What makes it special is that you never have to worry about other vehicles, quads or bikes that might meet you head on and truly makes for a relaxed ride.

Cobus and Karen Venter can be contacted on 0823163223, 034 4141166, Fax 034 4141345 or e-mail belvedere@telkomsa.net for bookings to enjoy this beautiful place.

Safe Riding

Werner

Umfilozi River ride to Hluhluwe game park boundry

2008-09-16T20:27:00.009+02:00

After three previous failed attempts to navigate the 40 km river bed from Riverview to the border of the Umfilozi / Hluhluwe park, on Saturday Stewart and I tried again and managed to reach the park boundary fence, finaly.

The early morning start in Richards Bay saw us set a crisp pace to the traditional Bird Park for a quick breakfast before heading down the short hill to the river bed. The usual route to the Bird Park was great with a slight chill in the air after the two days rain we had earlier in the week. The rain had also settled the dust and at that point my thoughts were that by now the river must have shown an increase in water level, after all it was two days of rain. This was not to be as the roads were dry as we approached the last 2 km before the river.
The bed was even drier than the two weeks earlier. By now we were somewhat the wiser with navigating around the hidden mud patches. The trick is to only ride on areas where there is evidence of cattle tracks. The cows have a way off avoiding the mud and their tracks were easy to follow. Sure enough as we approached the areas were we previously got stuck, the sand was void if any cattle tracks, confirming our thoughts.

The ride was relatively easy going with the CanAm reminding me of its unmistakable sound and power. Some how I think its time for an upgrade.... maybe later..

Reaching the 30 km mark we spotted a small lake on the GPS and ventured out of the river bed to explore. The Mbukwini lake was impressive with various bird life gathered around it. Moving on, we re-entered the river bed and continued until we reached the boundary fence.

The boundary fence is marked with wooden poles and electrified wires spanning bank to bank. The local kids were acutely aware of the potential of the fence and not prepared to even dare touch one of the wires, not even with a stick....

By now it was well after one in the afternoon and we still had to make our way towards Hluhluwe. At this point we had covered 95km and the Kodiak needed a refuel.

From the River bed, we plotted a GPS course parallel to the reserve fence, heading for the Hluhluwe dam 40 km north of us. This route took us over the hills laying east of the reserve. We climbed about 300 meters in a short distance and paused for a break at the top. The view from up there is great. One cant help but note how dry the area is.

In the distance behind is the Hluhluwe reserve.

Moving on down towards the Nyalazi area, the road /track becomes less evident and clearly impassable by vehicles. Sections of the road have been washed away with some deep ruts on the sides. These conditions continue for about 15 km. The first 2 to 3 km are fun but after a while these become an effort to negotiate and I began to wonder if this was a good idea at all. Stewart had recently fitted a steering damper to the CanAm and now it was paying off.

The Nyalazi river is bone dry and dropping into the basin was easy.

Getting up the far side bank required the 4x4 selection. Although the bank was not so steep the gravel made traction a challenge.

Approaching the Hluhluwe dam from the south gave us a preview of the eastern section of the water. Levels were sadly, very low.

The dam stretches north west behind the hills.
The route takes you past the Hluhluwe river below. Again the views made the trip worthwhile.

A short stop at the dam wall for a refreshment before heading east towards the N2 and Eastern Shores. From here on the route is uneventful and we moved on towards Bushlands.

We spent the night at Bush Babies, enjoying a log fire and the company of Shelley, Tan, Megs who traveled up by car earlier in the day, and Pim and Thandi. Sunday morning we were up early and headed for Morrisons where we refueled and headed for Farnies Island.

Arriving at the reserve we were greeted with a notice that Charters and Farnies were closed due to the drought. We were denied entry to the area and we headed on towards Mtubatuba.

A short lunch at Bird Park with the girls and we were on our way home, arriving back in Alton at 15h00. Total distance covered 289km. In the summer this ride could become very hot so its best to plan it for a cool day.
We recommend that 4x4's should be used as although most of the route is passable with 4x2, there were a number of short sections where the 4x2's will need assistance. This together with the time limits to cover 180km to Hluhluwe before dark may become a problem. Try to get into the river bed by no later than 10h30. This should get you to the boundary fence by 12h30. Leave plenty of time to cover the section from the river bed heading northwards to the dam as the going becomes slow. We carried 12lt of spare fuel as there were no fuel points until arriving at our destination in Bushlands.

ZBA Racing Ride Report : Survivor-Style Enduro in Eshowe

2008-09-04T08:08:00.002+02:00

Click the pic to visit the ZBA ride report for this unique event...it really sounds like they had LOADSAFUN !!!

Event notice : Affordable Bikes Party and Offroad outride - 6 Sept 08

2008-09-04T07:57:00.000+02:00

Umfolozi mud fun!!!!!

2008-09-03T18:50:00.003+02:00

A short visit from Stewart on Friday afternoon at the house brought on what was to be a very challenging weekend!!!!!
Pathfinder, Stewart, Megan our 9-year-old daughter and Myself Shelley, rode from Alton via the Bird Park , then on to the White Umfolozi River through to Hluhluwe.
Packed very hastily with and all the camping equipment that would be needed for an overnight trip. Met Stewart, Left Alton at 8.00 am with a strong North Easter.

First stop was the bird park for a late breakfast, Megan went to explore the parrots and unwind…
Our objective was to ride up the river till the game reserve and ride along the fence until we reached Hluhluwe…
Stewart was in and out of the water riding the riverbank, and as free as a bird until “yes you guessed it”….. you guessed it, he hit that clay like mud!!! Soft clay like mud "beware"

Pathfinder trying to winch Can-Amm backward's
What now!!!!

With loads of pulling and pushing winch’s becoming hot. Some help from the local’s we wondered if we would ever get Stewart’s quad out of the mud????

Will try anything now......
After two and a half hour’s and a lot of help from the local’s we heaved him out. Now time was not on our side anymore so had to cut trip shorter. Negotiated path up the mountain side, ran through a settlement and headed for Morison’s. Met up with Nicholas the Petrol and Bottle Store Owner. Fuelled up only to find that the Can-Amm 800 and the Kodiak 400 were running at 10 liters per 100km,s.

Pathfinder and Stewart discuss the day's event's

Last leg for the day was off to Bush Baby’s lodge.. arrived just as the sun was setting, tired dusty and hungry. Pim and Thandie were there to welcome us. We booked into a log cabin. The ablution’s are clean and well kept. An overnight stay will cost R140 per person and there is a welcoming pub with excellent views overlooking the pool area. Enjoyed a log fire and the presence of Pim and Thandie.

Packed quads and discussed a

new route home. This time took the Eastern Shores route to Monzi. Very picturesque, not as much shade as the forest route has to offer “ a hot ride in the summer month’s”. Rode 6 km’s along the tar road in order to get to Cane Cuttters which was the venue for a brunch. Megan by now, was fed up with the dust, heat and exhausted wanted to get home.

Last stop was just before the pylons for a cold refreshing drink then off to Alton in time to load the quads and head for home.

In total we covered 250 km’s , Kymco averaged 6litres per 100 km’s Kodiac 400, 10 litres and the Can-Amm 12 litres/100km.

Cya Shelley

Ride Report : Umfolozi River Ride - Sat 9 August

2008-08-11T19:11:00.009+02:00

Team

Pathfinder on his Yamaha 400, Stewart on his Can-Am 800, Allister on his Can -Am Limited Edition 800 and myself on my Kymco 300, all rode from Stewart's workshop in Alton to the Bird Park at Eteza on Saturday.

Getting ready

Short stop before the forest section

20 km point in the forest - check quads for branches that often lodge in the CV joints

Lapa stop for a refreshment

Had breakfast at the 'Bird Park' and made our way down to the White Umfolozi riverbed for some action.

The river as we all know, is really dry while some areas seem to have a little more water. There are ‘pay loaders’ digging up sections of the river bed which makes some areas nonnegotiable, an alternate route must to be sought up on the river banks. Crossing the trenches is misleading as they are deeper than expected...

Kymco after a swim....

Clearing water from the exhaust..

First obstacle was a muddy patch of water, deeper than what it looked. The bigger quads sailed through effortlessly, ...thinking I was on par with them, got a little stuck and before I knew it the seat and rear part of my quad was covered with muddy water. Within seconds I was pulled out and the engine was started with much water out of the exhaust. Oh dear! would she ever be the same again?.......... yes as you see, after draining the CVT, we all rode on.

Its all plain sailing until you hit a patch of black clay like mud which lies below a thin layer of river sand and then you bog down…. as you can see. Much pulling and winching eventually got Pathfinder out and then myself, Much fun was had and laughter afterwards, as I tried to clean, not only my quad, but myself.

Lets try a push and some gas..... = no way's..!

Ouch!!!! ...going nowhere...

Bogged to the chassis

After much pushing and pulling, time for a rest and a laugh

On route back - crossing the same trench of water

Later we left the bird park at 17.30 cold, wet and tired, but needless to say, what an enjoyable day. Yet again I watched as the Can-Am's and the Kodiac refuel, whilst I completed the route on a tank of fuel which was 170 Km's …..very impressive used low range once and completed the route with the "big boyz".

Learnings
Beware of sections of the river bed which have soft mud underlying a thin crust of sand.
Worth another trip on the next weekend. Next time we will try and make it to the 40km river point.

Cya, Shelley

Ride Report : Stew and Pathfinder do the Umfolozi river ride - 2nd August 08

2008-08-04T15:19:00.005+02:00

Ride Plan.
Two riders : Stew and Pathfinder (Can-Am 800 Max and Yamaha Kodiak 400)
Saturday - Leave Richards Bay, Alton area, head for the River View area and drop down into the White Umfolozi River bed. Head up stream for +- 20km.

Plot an uncharted route from that point to Hluhluwe crossing the N2 north of Mtubatuba. Refuel at Morrisons – overnight at Hakuna Matata Lodge.
Sunday, Leave Hluhluwe area and follow the Eastern Shores of St Lucia area till reaching Monzi area. From Monzi, head up to River View. Lunch at ‘Bird Park’ and travel back to Richards Bay.

Logistics.
Range 150km to Hluhluwe including the river route and 150km return trip via Eastern Shores. This meant that we were to carry extra fuel and water. Overnight goodies & food were transported by car direct to the lodge.

This trip was our fifth trip to Hluhluwe, and this time our challenge was to navigate up the Umfolozi river and then cut a trail from that point to Hluhluwe. With only the two of us riding, the 55km ride from Richards Bay to River View was quicker than normal.

Short stop at the 20 km mark - note the Can-Am's new Bear Claw tires.

Leaving the Bird Park area at Eteza, we traveled down the hill to the river and gained access to the river bed on the east side of the single lane bridge.

Once we dropped down into the river bed, the fun began. The bed is almost entirely flat and sandy with the occasional bolder that had washed down in heavy rains. There are straight sections stretching uninterrupted for almost 500 meters. This allowed Stewart to play with the Can-Am’s power. This quad is awesome, with plenty of sand spray from the ‘Bear Claw’ 27x12R12‘s. The water in the river bed was very low. The water course meanders down the river bed and crossing them was easy with water seldom covering the top of the tires. At one point, the water became too deep to cross and we had to navigate up the bank and around. Here we needed the 4x4 of the quads to climb the lose sand of the river bank. This section will become a problem for 2x4 quads and will require assistance to get through.

Wide open areas with no one else to be seen....

17km up the river we started checking the GPS for possible exits and soon found a road at the top of a hill.

To climb the hill we needed the 4x4 option again and here it became fairly technical until we reached the top, 150 meters above the river.

From here we could see Mtubatuba in the far distance and set a route to bring us out 10km north of Mtubatuba.

Traveling through the rural area we were greeted with the usual cordial waves from the locals. The GPS lead us to a bridge crossing the N2 and we found ourselves back in the familiar forest area heading towards Morrisons for fuel.

The fuel point is operated by friendly, smiling Nicolas of Nyalazi trading store. This point has become a regular stop on our route to Hluhluwe and is situated conveniently 24 km from Hluhluwe.

The return trip was via the eastern shores. The weather was not playing its part and we got soaked.

We arrived at our usual Bird Park point where we enjoyed a toasted sandwich and for the first time a cup of hot coffee rather than the traditional beer.

The last leg of 55km home was uneventful as we continued to be drenched with more rain.

Overnight in Hluhluwe

The overnight stay at Hakuna Matata Lodage on Saturday night, was hosted by Marius. The usual warm welcome and a log fire and braai brought out all the days events. In the morning Marius was introduced to Stewarts Can-Am and we have just learnt that he is now the proud owner of one too. Well done Marius, see you on the next ride…

Ride Summary
Umfolozi river route is certainly on the cards for the next ride. Easy going, but 4x4 is recommended to climb the banks out of the river. The distance over the two days = 300km. Extra fuel should be carried with a tow rope for recovery. Watch this space...

Regards Pathfinder

Ride Report : Richards Bay to Hluhluwe Via Bird Park

2008-08-04T15:17:00.007+02:00

submitted by Shelley

Ride Team - Aroon, Zack, Vimal, Stewart, his wife Di, and their son Warren all the way from London, Pathfinder ‘Mitch’, and myself ‘Shelley’

We had discussed this trip on Tuesday over dinner, at that point, I unfortunately could not make it, and this was a trip that Pathfinder would not miss. Second option was to travel up in Aroon’s Colt with Di and my Kymco quad on trailer, then ride back to Richard’s Bay on Sunday morning with the team.

On Friday morning I phoned Pathfinder with good news I was to join the ride up to Hluhluwe,… a very ecstatic Pathfinder. Confirmed accommodation, packed bags with the necessities and dropped Pathfinders Kodiac 400, my Kymco 300, Aroon’s Raptor 700, Zack on Kingquad 700, Vimal on a Polaris 300 Stewart on a Can-Am 800, Warren, also on a Can am 800 Max Limited edition, at Stewart’s workshop in Alton where we were to leave from.

All gathered at 9.30, loaded up trailer with extra fuel and equipment that we did not have to carry with us in order to give more freedom. Waved Di on her way, had a quick briefing, started our quads and said good-bye to all. Left Alton and navigated towards Bird Park. Next stop was the Lapa’s, one of which has a resident owl, not easily seen, as he tends to vacate the lapa as we arrive.

Next stop was a visit to a second lapa picnic area with a swing bridge and a flat deck that looks out over a wetland. A very easy ride up till now, very dusty and stony.

All decided upon a stop at the Bird Park at Eteza for a bite and something cold to drink. Discussed the ride so far and every one was in good spirits.

Next leg was a challenging one as tractors had ploughed the road up for log carriers and heavy-duty vehicles and this went on for about 25 km’s through the forest. Stopped along the way to look for damage to quads and have a chat on how the ride was treating them.
All agreed, … not your average gentle off road.

Back on track and off to Morrison’s, a little trading stall along the way. Met up with the locals, had a chat and a laugh and Stewart entertained the locals with a couple of Can–Am doughnuts, with clouds of dust and a good laugh for all.

Back in the seat again this, this leg took us along a railway line all the way to Hakuna Matata, our over night lodge where Di had been waiting for us since 11.30 am, and being entertained by Marius and his Mom Rachel.

Rachel is quite a character, with her pet Kampuchean monkey’s, they are treated just like children, they feed every four hours and bathe just like human babies.

The sun was just above the horizon and it would be settling down in about an hour after our arrival. Loaded the away team's bikes onto the trailer and bid them a farewell, just after 5PM.

Myself, Pathfinder, Di and Stewart and Warren were to overnight and then ride home on Sunday morning.

The overnighters had a clean up and sat around a log fire prepared for us by Marius, all shared their opinions and ride perform ability and agreed My Kymco 300 handles well for it’s size and very economical, fuel wise.

Sunday dawned a crisp fresh day. We had a cup of coffee and rusk's and a good chat, Marius had a ride on Stewarts Can am and I think he is sold on it. Warmed up our engine’s and bade farewell and agreed to see him in the near future. Took the road down to Charters, Fanies and the St. Lucia estuary. Very impressive; tried to work around the fences that have been erected to keep all out... no chance. Some good challenges but easy riding....;)

Short stop on the banks of Eastern Shores

Crossing the stream on Eastern Shores

Warren has fallen for his borrowed Can–Am… he has to have one…. he was heart sore to have completed his ride. I did take the Can–Am 800 Limited Edition for a short ride, wow and what a beaut. It is a soft, cushioned smooth ride with loads of power, a little too much for my pocket to accommodate.

Fuel consumption comparisons : My Kymco 300 being the most economical, 6 L /100 km, Can – Am being 11 L / 100km’s, - accommodation at Hakuna Matata : R120, pppn, self-catering.

Cya, Shelley

Ride photos : Gorgeous Boy rides again !

2008-08-04T07:44:00.003+02:00

A couple of Saturdays ago, Zac joined me on a great ride, with Mitch's crew, all the way to Hluhluwe....expect more photos soon, but here's one taken at the Morrison's spaza, with Zac, Mitch and Shelley in frame....

ZBA Event : Melmoth Enduro

2008-07-14T20:38:00.001+02:00

Click the pic to visit the ZBA report on their recent Enduro in Melmoth, featuring 110 riders AND Alfie Cox !!!!

Ride photos : A Cross for Sergio

2008-07-14T14:21:00.003+02:00

Jenny Potgieter submitted these touching photos from a ride held on 30 June, to place a cross for Sergio at the site of his tragic incident....

ZBA Event Report : ZBA Racing Bosvark Khamba Pot Fun Day

2008-06-18T21:55:00.002+02:00

(click the pic, to check out the photo gallery)

From Peter H :

Hi Guys and Gals

Thank you so much for your support last Sunday. The postings are up on the web and I see we have had plenty hits on this event.

The day worked out perfectly and we broke even, this is what the intension was and mission was accomplished. This will become an annual mid year event on the calendar, hoping to in future get sponsors that will even bring the price down to zip, yes that's correct, like in Zero, with all accommodation, food and prizes for mahala. (that's the idea) so any takers out there? max 4 sponsors on the day, I main and 3 sub-sponsors.

It was great not to have relied on our standby air support medical team, so thank you so much for taking great care, with one sore arm, not even broken. You guys did very well considering the big field and all that dust. The amazing thing was, only 67% of pre-entries arrived and there was a massive 86% attendance with no pre-entries. Fortunately we had enough food and only ran out of shooters on Saturday night.

Hope to see you at our next one in Melmoth on the 5/6 July 2008

Thanx once again, it was great to see so many new faces and the old supporters.

Cheers

Peter

ZBA Racing

Richards Bay to Hluhluwe - Bush Babys (110km)

2008-06-10T19:36:00.005+02:00

Ride Plan
Saturday - Richards Bay to Hluhluwe via the ‘Bird Park’ – camp over and return Sunday
Planed distance – 220km there and back . Fuel point 90km.
Riders – although the invite was extended to the regulars, only Stewart Can-Am, and Shelley committed.
Weather - prediction for the weekend was good with weather changing later on Sunday afternoon.
Fuel – 60 km point is at Mtuba and the 9o km point, Morisons, has a dual browser LRP and diesel.
Bikes – Can-Am DS 650, Kymco 300 and the ‘pack horse’, Kodiak 400 4x4

Packing. - After returning from Maputo, late on Friday the 6th June, the packing was done in the dark. From a previous ride with Can- Am Stewart, we learnt how beneficial the ex army kit bag was, so the sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses, clothing, toiletries were bundled into the bag. The benefits are, plenty storage, with the long zip, easy access to all the kit, dust tight, easy to strap to the frame and relatively water tight. On the back, we carried the perishables in a plastic ‘ammo’ box, spare fuel and some refreshments. Shelleys’s Kimco carried the 2x man tent and Stewarts kit bag.

Saturday morning 06h30, load the bikes onto the trailer and head for Alton. The launch was to take place at Stewarts workshop. Its ideal as its located close to the servitude alongside the rail link leading towards the forest entry point. Final checks and we were off before 08h00.

The morning was particularly fresh with the grass still damp from the night’s dew. The initial part of the ride took us past the rail siding and then into the forest area. Following the river route to the power-line servitude feeding RBM. This point marks the 20 km point. A short break and a snack we headed on towards the Bird Park.

The Bird Park marks the 55km point and by now it was after 10h00, so we agreed that a toasted beacon and egg sandwich will go down well, considering the next meal will be later that night.

The ride then leads down the hill towards River View where we follow the cane rail line around the outskirts of the Mtuba town. The idea is to avoid paved roads and traffic. This route skirts the cane fields and leads to the road running between Mtuba and St Lucia.

Crossing the road is the only piece of tar the ride will have and from then on its gravel track to Morisons 22 km north. This parte of the ride is relatively straight and we opt to let Shelley navigate, setting the maximum pace.

After a further 15 km we stopped for a short break before arriving at Morisons.

Refuelling shows up the Kodiak 400 as the heavier of the three bikes with 10l /100km. The DS650 and the Kymco are much the same with 6.5l/100km. Leaving Morrisons we head towards Hluhluwe. The next trip we must endeavour to find an alternate for this section and avoid the gravel road. Following the routine gravel road is unattractive, very dusty and the occasional vehicle is a bother.

Navigation made easy using the Garmin 276 with Topographical charts.

Stewart checks the tyre pressure. This is not his usual Can Am 800, but rather the "butt kicking, neck wrenching DS650.... Somehow manages to stll use less fuel than the Kodiak400????? Arriving at ‘BushBabies’ in Hluhluwe, was great with the owners extending a warm welcome to the three of us. We were shown the neat camp site. The sites offer plug point, light and the grass is neatly kept. We were then shown the wood cabins and for the price, they seemed more attractive, besides we were not keen to set up tents and blow up mattresses. The cold beers on offer were more attractive….. Soon it was getting dark. The warm shower was welcome.

Dinner at the restaurant was great. Prawn starter, grilled chicken, veggies and desert, all for R95, made it a bargain. The log fire gave us a chance to reflect on the ride and plan the next.

During the night the SW wind picked up and by the morning the temperatures were down. We packed the bikes and were on the trail by 08h30.

We opted to follow the river course back to Morisons. This gave us a chance to top up the fuel before the 90km run back home. During the next 20 km the temperatures continue to drop further. By this time the head wind was strong and cool. A short stop to warm up was necessary as Shelley’s hands were ‘frozen’.

Shelley reluctantly agreed to swap bikes to allow me to check-out her ‘new’ Kimco 300. At face value, this little machine is misleading. Coming off the back of a 400cc 4x4 onto a 300 2x4, I expected it to be less able in the soft sand but was amazingly surprised, Secondly the ride is softer than the Kodiak allowing for a more comfortable ride. The steering is lighter which takes some getting used to. The brakes are sharper but the power is more refined with more ‘top end’ than the Kodiak. When the going gets tough, the Kodiak comes into its own, particularly when the 4x4 is engaged. Let’s face it, these occasions are few and far between on out rides. I can’t explain why, but climbing back on the Kodiak felt more at home and Shelley felt the same getting back on her Kymco……horses for courses…?

Arriving at the Bird Park was a relief as we were starved and keen to tuck into a burger which warmed us for the last 55km home run.

The team agreed to pick a new route form the Bird Park, following one of the streams leading in the homeward direction. This route is more sheltered making it the best yet and will become the preferred route for the next trip.

20km from home, the rain started and this encouraged us to step up the pace, arriving back at the workshop in Alton at 14h30, albeit slightly wet.

By now Shelley was frozen, but in good spirits. Stewart commented, that we were “like kids all over again”.
Riding stats – 232 km. Average speed 33km/h. Peek speed 67km/h. Distance from Alton to refuel point 92km. Riding is easy.
The route travelled.

Watch this space in two weeks time…..

Regards and Cheers

"Pathfinder"

Ride Report : Pathfinder finds a new path to Jolly Rubino - Sun 1 June

2008-06-01T20:49:00.003+02:00

Sunday morning we headed from Alton towards our favourite river route which led us to the power lines. Shelley, "MAD" & Michael with Pathfinder leading the route to Jolly Rubino. Shelley, with her new Kymco are becoming more acustomed to each other on every ride, with the average speed notching up and Shelley itching to clock up more and more kilometers....
Light rain the night before settled the dust and made for an enjoyable ride.

The 40 km point is marked with a short stop at the dam before heading over the coastal forest dune down to the beach.

A stop at out favourite "braai spot" for a refreshment and a few pic's before heading on to the wreck of Jolly Rubino.

Arriving just in time for a lunch and a short break. Some ideas of a future, 2x day, over-night trip were discussed. No details of the date yet, but some how I think it's going to be sooner than we think...

The route home took us past a river crossing. This was a first for Shelley and Michael. With the water over the top of the tyres in sections, it had them excited. This section will be a definite inclusion on the next return trip.

The group of four made it back without incident, arriving at 14h30 in Alton.
Average speed 30km/h.
Moving time 4hr10min.
Total distance covered, 131km.
The Kymco 300, Masai 450 and the Kodiak 400, made it there and back on one tank of fuel.

ZBA Event Report with Pictures : Bergland/Melmoth 24-25 May 08

2008-05-29T12:53:00.002+02:00

Click the pic to check out Peter H's report and photos from last weekend's 127-strong event in the Melmoth hills...

Ride report : Farewell ride for Victor and Wanda

2008-05-19T07:52:00.004+02:00

08H00 marked the gathering of the riders at the "Birdswood Tree". 20x quads and 10bikes set off in two groups. The slower group, lead by Pathfinder took the riders up the 'River Route' while the rest of the faster riders went for a more direct ride through the forest. Once at the RBM intersection the riders headed for the"Bowl" Here, the weeks work frustrations were vented on the banks of the "Bowl". This is an excellent area to test the capabilities of the quads and bikes in the soft sand. From here on the group headed for Hlabane via the route along the crest of the dune forest. This route is one of the most scenic in the area and is a must for any visitor to the area. Arriving at the Hlabane estuary, the team had a braai and some refreshments before heading home along the same reverse route. Surgio toasted a farewell to Victor and family. Hope to see you back here for a ride soon Victor...
Ariving back home at the "Birdswood Tree", where stories of the ride were shared before the teams split. No incidents for a group of x 30... well done to all.

A comment from The Morgado Family (by email from Victor) :

Sergio,
Thanks for organizing a great ride. Special thanks to Pathfinder, job well done, and you made the ride very scenic. To all that came for the farewell, a very special thanks.
Keep up the spirit, and when any of you want to ride in NC, give us a call. We will be glad to have you around.

Kindest Regards
Morgado family.

Ride photos : Shelley putting on the kms

2008-05-19T07:24:00.003+02:00

In the fantastically green Zululand forests, with a couple of quads and your partner - what could be better?

Paul, Pathfinder (taking the photo) and Shelley, taking a cool afternoon ride to nowhere special ....

Photo Album : Highlift Mud Nationals !

2008-05-15T17:01:00.002+02:00

Check out the gallery of photos from the High Lifter Mud Nationals held Stateside....some of those 4-wheelers are MONSTERS !!!! Courtesy of QUAD Magazine.

Ride Photos : Cane Cutters

2008-05-12T08:25:00.002+02:00

Aziz, with and without riding gear, just before taking a few laps around the novice/kiddies track, at Cane Cutters

Lil Adam, very eager to start riding on his own, but it's not time yet...

Adam, being chaffeured around the novice track, by Zac, who always relishes a spin on the King....who wouldn't ?

New Bike Report : Ride Shelley Ride !

2008-05-09T10:41:00.002+02:00

Pathfinder's better half, Shelley, has just taken delivery of a KYMCO MXU 300 - we look forward to her report back after riding this weekend, especially on Mother's Day !!!!

Technical Tip : Thermostat Check

2008-05-05T07:58:00.002+02:00

Courtesy of QUAD Magazine :

To ensure your thermostat is functioning properly, you can test it in a pot of water on the kitchen stove. Using pliers to avoid a burn injury, submerge the thermostat in boiling or nearboiling water. You should be able to watch it open immediately. If it fails to open, you need to replace it.

Article : More about the HONDA TRX700 XXX

2008-04-22T08:15:00.003+02:00

Check out this piece, with more dope on the latest big bore sport quad on the scene....courtesy of ATVriders.com

Article : Suzuki celebrates 25 years of ATV History

2008-04-21T07:56:00.002+02:00

Suzuki lay claim to being the "First on 4 Wheels" - check out this article to read how they did it - courtesy of QUAD Magazine....

Richards Bay to Jolly Rubino - Sunday 13 April

2008-04-15T21:11:00.004+02:00

Ride Plan
Meet at 06h00 Richards Bay - Birdswood ride through the forest to the Sokulu area. Refuel and follow the coastal forest track behind the dunes to the car park at the Jolly Rubino. Lunch and then follow the same route back.

Logistics
The route is 125 km there and back so most bikes opted to carry extra fuel. Surgio's team were more organised with a support vehicle who met him at the 42 km point. 18 bikes with mixed riders, the youngest being 'Padda'. The weather forecast predicted rain from 05h00 onwards through out the day, however Sunday morning 06h00 dawned with blue sky and the occasional cloud. That was to change by 10h00, with enough rain to fill the dips in the track with water. This made the return leg home, fun.

Ride
We set off at 06h15 sharp and took the forest route to the Manzamnyama stream crossing where we crossed the tar road to RBM. A short stop at the 8km point and then pressed on passed the Kwambo forest station to the Langepan area. At this point one of the three bikes suffered gearbox failure. This left the bike in 4th gear with no other selections. He opted to follow the sand track home while the rest of the riders carried on towards Sokulu. The average speed up to this point was 40 to 50 km/h as most of the roads were gravel. At this point the we left the gravel track and headed through the sandy forest area with occasional grassy sections between the trees. These areas are always more interesting as the riders attention to bike control is more apparent. The pace slowed to 30km/h with the occasional straight sections where we had a chance to open the throttles a bit. Of course Stewarts Can-Am showed us up with massive blast of power and even challenging the two wheelers on top end. At Sokulu we reached the 42km point and had a chance to refuel some of the bikes while others took the opportunity for refreshments.

From here on the fun part of the ride really begins with a sharp, soft sand, climb up the hill into the dune forest area. This area is at an early stage of being cleared for future mining operations with evidence of new tracks. The track narrows as you descend the hill to the dunes behind the beech. The roller coaster ride continues to a clearing overlooking the beach. From here we were caught a glimpse of the approaching storm with rain. Within minutes the rain started falling and remained with us for most of the ride home.

We followed the roller coaster track till we arrived at the Jolly Rubino where the group again gathered for a quick photo and then headed for the limited cover offered by the forest trees. The group took the opportunity to have a bite to eat and a few refreshments with some laughs and stories of the previous Eastern Shores ride 4 weeks earlier.
Surgio spotted a soft front wheel on his quad and warmed up the 'tyre-weld' before inflating the tyre. Then a ride to spread the glue. By this time the rest of the group were keen to head up the hill towards the St Lucia light-house. At the top of the hill the rain let up and the group finished off the rest of the sandwiches before heading on.

The track heads back towards the road leading to the Mapelane reserve. Just before reaching the intersection the road forks and we headed left along the ridge back towards Sokulu. This gravel track is narrow and with the rain, the dips were filled with water. 'Warthog' Bruno could not pass up the opportunity. He headed, full speed into each puddle sending a spray of water wide enough to wet Surgio riding in front of him.

By 12h30 we were back at Sokulu intersection where some bikes took on their first refuel and others took on their second. The ride then lead back to the forest area on the way back home. By now the temperatures were down slightly with rain on and off. We opted to step up the pace as we headed for home. The average speed was up to 55 km/h on the straights. The lead riders missed the vital turn towards the Richards bay area and veered off towards the Bird Park. At the end of a long fire break they realised that the area looked unfamiliar and decided to wait for the rest of the group to catch up.

A fresh route was plotted for home and the riders made up some time on the straights till we arrived at the Manzamnyama stream. We had a last stop for rest, before heading back to Birdswood. We arrived at our starting point at 14h00.

Interesting to note was no incidents or near misses. This, for a large group is rewarding.

Well done to all 18 riders. See you again on the weekend.

Live Ride Photo feed : Jolly Robino : The Long Road Ahead...

2008-04-13T12:42:00.002+02:00

Live Ride Photo feed : Jolly Robino : The Return

2008-04-13T12:39:00.002+02:00

Live Ride Photo feed : Jolly Robino : Lighthouse

2008-04-13T11:52:00.002+02:00

Live Ride Photo feed : Jolly Robino : 42km Refuel stop

2008-04-13T11:43:00.001+02:00

Live Ride Photo feed : Jolly Robino : Halfway

2008-04-13T11:42:00.001+02:00

Live Ride Photo feed : Jolly Robino

2008-04-13T07:21:00.002+02:00

Notice : Renette

2008-04-10T08:33:00.002+02:00

It is with sadness that I post that Renette de Abreu passed away in hospital on Sunday, after being in ICU for about a week following an elective operation on her abdomen.

She will be sorely missed in the de Abreu family circle, and the Zululand offroad riding community.

There will be a memorial service and a wake taking place this Saturday 12th April, and a mass ride will be planned for later in the month.

Please join me in extending the warmest wishes, condolences and support to the de Abreu family and all of Renette's friends and extended family in this time of sorrow.

Aroon

Article : First Ride on the Honda TRX 700 IRS

2008-04-09T09:26:00.003+02:00

ATVRiders.com features a great test ride report on the newest big bore sport machine, on offer from Honda - click the pic to check it out!

ATV Humour : Internet overload?

2008-03-27T20:58:00.002+02:00

Article : How to keep your A-Arms looking new

2008-03-27T20:36:00.002+02:00

Great tip from Quad Magazine....

Article : Women and Quadding

2008-03-25T20:30:00.002+02:00

Great piece from ATVSource.com about girrls and quadding.....

New Product : Nightvision glasses ?

2008-03-21T06:42:00.002+02:00

TAG makes glasses? Nightvision glasses? Check out the article on ATVsource.com...

Ride Photos : ZBA Double Header Enduro in Ntumeni

2008-03-21T06:30:00.002+02:00

Herman, Herman jnr, Jenny, Essie and Michelle had a stonking good time at this event, which catered for bikes and quads on an Enduro format at Ntumeni, which is truly some of the best riding terrain in Zululand.

Peter Huysamen's events are ALWAYS well-organised, and well supported - check out his ride report and photo gallery as well as upcoming events at his website, ZBA Racing

ATV Humour : More fun than the Wheel?

2008-03-14T07:00:00.002+02:00

Ride photos : Prawn Shack

2008-03-13T21:39:00.002+02:00

Herman and Jenny sent through these photos from their recent run up to the Prawn Shack, near Mtunzini....

Article : Don't Leave Home without your GPS!

2008-03-13T21:23:00.003+02:00

Click the pic to access a very informative piece about GPS's, courtesy of ATVsource.com

Online Photo Album added : Bat Cave Ride

2008-03-10T21:26:00.002+02:00

Go there to see all the photos from the ride, and to ogle at all the fun they had on this epic trip in Zululand!

Live Ride Report : Post-ride comments

2008-03-10T09:45:00.005+02:00

From Warthog :
Hi Guys
I need to say the following, I went to sleep at 19h30 last night and today I feel like a train hit me. I think it is because of the fitness levels : what I did learn is that I can’t do this for 4 days.
I will have to stick to 2 day trips till I get my fitness level up...
Thanks
Bruno

From Sergio:
Thank you to Mitch for an excellent weekend / ride. Mitch you are the "Pathfinder".
Bruno, to you thanks reverting my lung capacity to the same as it was 5 years ago before I stopped smoking.
Stewart thanks for the tow and keeping us all smiling.
This weekends bunch of guys really were great. I must admit last night I hit the pillow hard and had a real good nights rest (Bruno must have sawn the forest down)
once again thank you all, have a great weekend and look forward to our next adventure.
yours in quad'ding.
serg (90% lung capacity but still alive)

From Victor:
Hi Guys,
I had a great outing, you were all fantastic company. Mitch, I must say, you earned the title of Path finder. If it was me the group would have done a few u turns and circles, believe me.
Stew, you kept me smiling all weekend, thanks.
Serg, imagine if you were a smoker, “you would be in ICU by now” LOL……
Regards
Vic

From Mitch:

Hello, "Bats Cave Riders" and Aroon - in our 'media control center'

Well, what a ride.... all in all, a great success, largely due to the enthusiastic attitude from each of you = my hearty thanks.

I will be digesting the salient point of the trip with a view to using them as part of the planning for the next out ride.

My apologies for the 'bug' which certainly quietened my otherwise energetic nature on Saturday night/ Sunday.

Thanks again

Regards, Pathfinder

Live Ride Report: Bat Cave Return Trip photos

2008-03-09T19:14:00.004+02:00

Breakfast at Bat Cave

Back on the Road

Taking a break in the shade - by mid-morning, it had gotten almost unbearably hot!

Refuel stop at Hluhluwe

Home Sweet Home

Live Ride Report : Bat Cave Run part 5

2008-03-09T03:24:00.002+02:00

In Camp now, at Bat's Cave

Total distance covered today = 200kms, which is 50kms further than the plan - I wonder where the GPS data went wrong!

Average travelling speed was 40kph, and there were 2 incidents : Sergio's near head-on collision with a quad racer and Paul's roll after trying to avoid a reversing Pathfinder who had missed a crucial turn while on point....

Speaking of Pathfinder, word was that he had been riding with a tummy bug, and was needing more water and getting more fatigued than would have been usual.

So far, the trip has been an education, with an early conclusion that the Kosi trip is going to need a 4-day weekend to complete comfortably.

Live Ride Report : Bat Cave Run part 4

2008-03-08T14:15:00.003+02:00

Near-disaster!

Just after leaving Hluhluwe area, our intrepid group "ran" into an organised quad event, and poor marshalling/barricading caused a near-head-on collision, resulting in a bent steering arm on Sergio's KYMCO 300.

No injuries, thank goodness, but a bit of stress and lost time....

The guys are back en route to the campsite at Bat's Cave, now expecting to arrive at 3PM

Live Ride Report : Bat Cave Run part 3

2008-03-08T12:32:00.004+02:00

Stopping at Monzi

Break at the 80km mark

Refuel stop at Morrisons

Made it all the way to Hluhluwe in good time.
Arrived at this spot at around 12h15, expecting to reach Bat's Cave by 14h00, right on track.
No hassles or incidents up to this stage.

Live Ride Report : Bat Cave Run part 2

2008-03-08T08:25:00.002+02:00

1st stop - all seems to be going well...

Live Ride Report : Pathfinder does Bat Cave

2008-03-08T06:29:00.002+02:00

7 Quads, 300kms of wooded trail ahead of them, great weather forecast....good luck, boys!

New product : KYMCO side-by-side

2008-03-06T21:23:00.003+02:00

Check out this review of one of the latest side-by-sides available on the market - this time KYMCO has entered the fray.....brought to you by ATVsource.com

ATV Humour : Off the Beaten Path

2008-03-04T14:32:00.001+02:00

New Quad : 2008 750 Kingquad

2008-02-26T22:46:00.001+02:00

ATVSource.com links to a preview and specs for the newest King - click the pic to check it

Report and Photos : Eshowe Round Table 24 Family Fun Day for Bikes and Quads

2008-02-25T22:15:00.003+02:00

It was great to see such a wonderful turnout again. I really appreciate it and continuously try and improve on what I deliver to my hard-core supporters, thank you.

The day kicked of with 84 entries, with a fast, marked track of 30 km. Some people were quite happy to stop and smell the roses, other were flying around that track like (what’s that Curtis okes name again?)

Only two injuries, with the worst being a collarbone and that of Bradley Clack. I have been in contact with his parents and he is doing fine. Must be that move from the 85cc to the 125cc, we wish Bradley a speedy recovery and hope to see him at one of our events soon.

R5500 worth of prizes were handed out, with Ride High of Empangeni being the main sponsor. We would also like to thank all the other sponsors, Pick & Pay Eshowe, Brockwell Engineering, Wynnes Zululand, Playas Sports and Leisure, Zululand Fever.

The farmers need a huge thanx from all of us and they were, the Cadman family, the Abrahams family, the Lee family, the Emberton family the Chennells family and the Steenberg families.

Almost everyone got a prize, but the main ones were;

R500 Gavin Carey for the biggest dump of the day
R500 Gerrit Zaayman for the best show off
Oldest Competitor Tony Gray
Youngest competitor Calvin Hume
Sexiest competitor of the day, Gerrit Zaayman, adjudicated by a group of blind woman, they could only go by feel

Cheers and see you at my next event, miss it at your own peril.

Submitted by Peter H (ZBA Racing)

Article : Quad that can ride on Water !

2008-02-21T23:16:00.001+02:00

Yup, it's the famous Quadski - I nearly thought it was an urban legend, but, thanks to ATVSource.com, clicking the pic will get you the low-down....

Article : Turn Your ATV Into a Monster

2008-02-21T23:06:00.004+02:00

Courtesy of ATVSource.com, this article details the conversion of a Yamaha 660 Grizzly into a Monster, with the installation of a Gorilla High-Lift suspension kit....click.the.pic.....

Ride Report : 4 provinces in 1 day!!!!

2008-02-21T22:37:00.002+02:00

paulb and KfxNando from Chatquads Forum did this round trip of 658kms in a day on an Outlander 800 and a Kawa Brute Force 750 - read all about it, by clicking on the pic of their mammoth route....

Ride Report: Umpleby Suzuki Outride in Ging - Sunday 17 Feb 08

2008-02-18T17:10:00.009+02:00

Ride Plan -

Engage with "Coastal Outdoor Adventures" for an outride which would take us from Ging to surrounding areas including a river crossing some hill climbs and a route close to the coastline. Its a 3 to 4hr ride which included stops for refreshments.

15 rider's in total made up of 5x bikes and 10 quads. Our guide was organiser Gerald Souchon.

06h00 - Early departure from Richards Bay where we (JJ, Eddy and Pathfinder) gathered at the local filling station.

The road from Richards Bay was quiet at that time of Sunday morning, so we made good time to Ging, arriving there just before 7AM

After some introductions and light chatter about previous rides, Gerald briefed the riders about the route and some safety precautions.

Some final checks to the bikes.

The ride leaves the resort and climbs to the top of the first hill which leads down to the river 150 meters below.

The impressive views from this point set the scene for the rest of the ride.

The trail is interrupted with occasional wash away and boulders.

The occational wet ditch is negotiated.
(and we spared a thought for Warthog!)

The route leads to the river crossing. Here, the riders are reminded by Gerald to shift the weight to the back of the bike and try not to spin the wheels as that will cause the bike to bog down.

Either way, some of the bikes managed to find themselves deep in the sand and water. While these were man handled out the 'Cam-Am's' took the opportunity to make it all look so easy.....

Once on the other side it was time to let the water out of the boots and have some fun in the loose sand before heading off again.

A short stop for a smoke and refreshments while some previous trail experiences were discussed.

Des and Gerald lead the riders through the trail.

One of the high point beacons overlooking the sea below.

The trail boasts some spectacular views of the hills and the coast

The occasional wash away allows the riders to play. Here JJ puts the Can-Am through it's paces.

After a short stop at the local shop for refreshments, the group are lead down to the river again where we take a much needed stop in the shade under the bridge of the N2 freeway.

Gerald takes a dip to cool off. From here on its back through the river and up the hill back home. Gerald then led the 2 wheelers off for a short ride before returning to the resort.

Back at the resort the riders share some of the events and enjoy a light meal and refreshments.

Summary
The ride is about 50 km and takes about 4 hours including stops. The route takes you through varying terrain including grassy hills, river crossings, forests, some gravel straights which generate huge amounts of dust.
These were fortunately kept to a minimum.

Some serious hill climbs which some of the quads opted to by-pass as they require some experience to ascend.

The group leaders Des and Gerald have clearly done this many times and have organised the ride to cater for experienced and the not-so-experienced.

Ride Learning’s
You are in the sun for 3 to 4 hours, take enough refreshments with. Next time I will take 2 litres minimum.
(MY standard is 1 litre per hour of exposure....that would make 3 to 4 litres, even with my funny maths!! Ed)

Dust on the gravel sections is challenging and as usual we had to open the gap between the riders in those sections.

The ride is geared for medium to well experienced riders. One of the first time riders became dehydrated and suffered fatigue. This could become a safety problem as the route has some steep narrow sections. None-the-less, he made it to the end with some assistance and coaching from other riders.

All in all, this was one of the best rides I have done and it will be on my 'to do' ride list in the near future.

Pathfinder

Photos : Mud Sunday at the Quarry - 10 Feb 08

2008-02-15T06:54:00.008+02:00

After the recent rains in the area, who could miss an opportunity to play in the mud

The HQ with shade & refreshments was set up by Sergio

More and more bikes rolled in....

Soon the kids were having fun getting stuck while dad's were kept busy with recoveries.

The water seemed to become an attraction.

From the top of the hill climb the there is a great view of the bowl.

As always the Can-Ams were showning how its done.

"Dad, this is so kool..."

More recoveries. All in all it was lots of mud and lots of fun.

Advert : Action Helmet Camera

2008-02-14T20:54:00.002+02:00

The helmet cam I am after - the ATC2000K, made by Oregon Scientific....is reportedly a fantastic piece of kit, for the price....

Gear Review : Top 10 GPS units for your car

2008-02-14T20:48:00.004+02:00

Stuff magazine, which just launched recently in SA, features the Top 10 GPS units, for your vehicle....though the prices are in GBP, and the models may not yet be available on our shores, it gives you the leaderboard, with Tom Tom, and NOT GARMIN, right on top!

Article : Race-Ready KTM quads are here!

2008-02-14T19:55:00.006+02:00

Click the pic to check out QUAD magazine's write up on the new KTM 450 and 525 race-ready sport quads....

Article : Pimp my (Sport Quad) Ride

2008-02-06T08:26:00.001+02:00

Click the pic to access a fantastic article on aftermarket mod testing, for some of the most popular sport quads, including the Yamaha trinity of Banshee, Raptor 700 and YFZ450....this piece is, as always, brought to you with the courtesy of QUAD magazine....

Ride report : Flat Rocks Night Ride

2008-02-02T10:31:00.000+02:00

The original plan was to ride after work to Jolly Rubino. Time constraints soon prevailed and we opted to settle for a slightly shorter destination - Flat Rocks, commonly referred to as "Nyogies"

Ride distance was planned as 120 km there and back, returning just after sunset.

There were 9 riders (4 ladies) and 8 bikes in all.

Some pre checks to the kit and bikes

We gathered at the entrance to the forest and waited for the other half of the team to arrive.

Soon the team was complete and we were on our way albeit at 16h00.

Shortly after we crossed the RBM road, a flat tyre gave us a chance to have a break with refreshments of course...

Ladies share a few moments for the forest section

Victor makes the repair look so easy... and we are away...

Almost... time for more stories and refreshments. No one is worried about the time at this stage...

Another stop, this time close to the half way point. Ulande is clearly having fun.

Do I hear "... we must definitely do this more often...." ?
...the guys are only too keen.

The RBM dam marks the point at which we climb the sand dune before descending down to the beach. Its already 18h00 and we have about 8 km to still cover, to the halfway stop.

Some ducks on the pond

All geared up and ready for the last leg

We arive, just as the sun begins to set

This is what the ride is all about. Cool sea air and blue water

Some beers were dished out and the planning of the next ride debated.

Ulande takes a stroll on the beach while we wait for the braai to simmer.

Priceless view of the sea

Victor turns the B_Wors on the fire

The ladies have their moments to share

Time for a short rest before the return trip. Its now about 19h00 and we still have 60 km off road to get back

A short stop in the last leg of the forst before we say cheers to everyone. The next trip is on the cards. Will it be next Friday?? watch this space..

Learnings from the trip:

The distance covered was 110km.
To include a quick braai and return- you need at least 5 hrs.

Always add in some time for the stops on the way.

Night driving= Place one of the experienced riders who knows the route in front. With the dust and the head lights its not easy to see the road so watch the tail light in front for sudden movement suggesting a hole. Stay fairly closely packed and reduce speed. Each rider watch for the person behind so that no one falls behind.

We carried a pair of Motorola 2 way radios. The helmets were fitted with microphone and ear pieces. This was really handy when Bruno ran out of fuel and he was able to flag us immediately.

Watch the blog for the next planned night ride.

Article : Camping Adventure on Quads

2008-01-31T20:46:00.000+02:00

A great piece from QUAD Magazine, about camping out on Quads....there's some suggestions about gear to pack etc....and, it will make for good homework, in preparation for the weekends away that are in the pipeline.....

Video Clip : Riding with the Boyz& Girlz - Eteza 20 Jan 08

2008-01-29T22:31:00.001+02:00

Helmet cam video footage from our ride at Eteza...watch for the youngsters riding around on their quads...

Sergios River Ride - 27 Jan 08

2008-01-29T06:44:00.000+02:00

Meeting place : Mthlatuze water board behind Mondi R/bay
Departure Time from home: 11h30am
Arrival time at home: 17h30pm
Distance of outride: +-50km's

Route: starting at Mthlatuze water board, trying to navigate the river until the Nsleni Bridge, back to track then off to Empangeni to escort Herman home, and ride back home to Richards Bay

Quads: 2 x Kymco MXU300, Suzuki LATER-450, Can-am 800 4x4, Kawasaki KEF-400, Yamaha Kodiak 400 4x4, Yamaha Raptor 350

Highlights of trip:
1. watching Herman getting stuck in mud a few times
2. all having a beer at a shabeen
3. watching Mitch's winch in operation saving Herman
4. Padda going through a large puddle of mud and water (and doing it first time without getting stuck)
5. Having a beer at Lighties Sports bar and riding home.

Herman had a hard time getting stuck quite a few time - not due to bad riding but as he has temporary tires on his bike which are designed for track riding and not outriding as we do...............but this did not mean we did not tease him.............

VIEW OF NSELENI RIVER

SERG AND PADDA CROSSING A MUD BOG

HERMAN GETTING TOWED BY MITCH (STUCK IN A MUD BOG)

MITCH TOWING HERMAN (AGAIN)

PADDA, SERG, STEWARD & MITCH POSE AFTER RIDING THROUGH THE BOG

On Sunday, before lunch,we (Padda, Leon, Herman, Mitch,Bruno, Steward and myself) decided to go on an exploration outride :

Starting at Mthlatuze Water Board, we proceeded around its fence, leading to the river, we then tried to follow the river or find a route to the Nselni Bridge, making it about one-fifth of the way (some of us getting stuck in the mud and bog a few times), then following the railway line until we found a Shabeen near the Spoornet Nsezi Depot. Stopping there for a ice cold refreshment. Then riding to the Nseleni river stopping at a shaded spot on the river enjoying the view and another ice cold refreshment.

At about 14h30 Mitch and Bruno had to leave the group and ride home.

The remaining group then decided to ride to the track. At the track Herman showed us all how to get free airtime, while Padda showed us how to cross a huge mud pool without getting stuck.

At the track we all met our friend Denver (he joined us for the last exploration ride around Lake Hlabane) We then left the track to escort Herman home, stopping off at Lighties Sports bar to get Padda a coke and the rest of us decided to also enjoy an ice cold refreshment. After leaving Lighties we rode home.

THE BOYS GETTING A REFRESHMENT AT THE SHABEEN

SERG AND HERMAN (HERMAN SHEDDING A TEAR DUE TO HIM GETTING STUCK SO MUCH)

PADDA AT TRACK, RIDING THOUGH MUD POOL................

submitted by Sergio

Mitch, Warthog + Roxy RCB-Kwambo ride - 27 Jan 08

2008-01-28T21:00:00.000+02:00

Early Sunday morning, Bruno, Yolande and Mitch set of for a short 50 km ride that took them mostly through the forest area to the town of Kwambo. The highlight was the early morning, damp forest river section. This section is a must for the next trip.

Short breaks were taken to absorb the forest peace and serenity.

The route takes the riders under the line that services RBM mining.

Some refreshments went down well....

One wrong turn, prompted by the GPS as a short cut, took the team through a long grass section, close to an intermittent stream. Here the grass was 1 meter tall. The lead bike took the brunt of the grass seeds and bugs which set up home on the warm quad. Within minutes the bike was un-drivable with spiders and ants crawling all over the bike and rider......Eeeiiiissshhhh.

By sunset, after a high pressure clean, they were still coming out of the holes in the body work......Lesson = avoid riding in long grass....

All in all - it was one of the better rides so far.

Kids Fun Ride - Kwambo Sat 19 Jan 2008

2008-01-28T15:03:00.000+02:00

Saturday 19 Jan was the ideal time to take the younger ones for a short ride around Kwambo. Aziz (6yrs old) on his new Dinli 110. He has taken to the handling of this amazing machine like it was made for him.

"Cruising down the fire breaks is great fun Dad.. check all the dust"

The cleared section in the forest is an ideal open area to let the guys 'open up' the bike with a flat stable surface to ride on.

Amble Inn Survivor-style Enduro - Eshowe 20 Jan 2008

2008-01-26T20:46:00.000+02:00

Click the pic to access ZBA Racing's ride report for the Survivor Enduro in Eshowe on 20th Jan - they had a stellar turnout of 78 riders!

They also have a gallery of >70 photos from that event....check it out!!!

BIG AL does Sani Pass - 16 Dec 07

2008-01-23T00:43:00.000+02:00

Man, this guy gets around! Here he is at Sani Pass, in December....

I have a feeling it's that Chatquads riding shirt that is his passport to riding pleasure....I gotsta get me one of those...:)

KUSELS FUN RIDE- Wartburg KZN Hosted by Tuskers Motorsport

2008-01-23T00:38:00.001+02:00

Click the pic to access Bulldozer's ride report for this terrific ride! I am looking forward to Big AL's photos and report as well, and am eager to join in on future trips into this gorgeous surrounding!

Eteza Family Fun Ride - 20 Jan 2008

2008-01-21T14:01:00.000+02:00

Sergio + George + Claudio

George, 4 years old, was thoroughly enjoying his first time riding outside of his parent's garden....

Date : Sunday 20 Jan 2008
Venue : Eteza Track on Van Heerden's Farm
Riders : >20

I was invited to join Sergio's group on a ride to Eteza, from Richards Bay, together with partners and kids. Having seen pix of their other rides, I anticipated a large family-orientated group, and I was not disappointed....

Most of the bunch did the trip from Richards Bay, leaving early in the morning, but Aziz and I met the party at Eteza.

Though it got EXTREMELY hot on the outride, there was NO stopping the kids from continuing to buzz around on their bikes long after the adults had stopped riding, and started "refreshing"....

Out of a riding group of around 25, more than half were ladies and kids! What a great way to spend a Sunday!

Sergio has some ambitious rides in the planning pipeline, and I hope to be a grinning participant on some of them....watch this space....

A point of interest - there were more Kymco quads on this ride than I've ever seen before! These guys swear by the Kymcos, and would not look at anything else....except maybe a demo Outlandger 800 going for a song...but, that's still only a vicious rumor....

Google Earth pictures and GPS Tracks submitted by Victor:

Richards Bay Airport to Kwambo

Kwambo to Eteza

Eteza MX Track close-up

Eteza Outride

Claudio, on a Dino 50

Aziz, taking a turn on Miguel's impressive Polaris Sportsman 90, which is solidly built, has reverse, and could probably tow a few sport bikes out of trouble...

At the start of the outride, with Victor and Padda in the lead, after doing a reccy lap to scout out the potential obstacles.

Victor and I spent a fair amount of time assisting the boys through some of the varied obstacles on the outride

Fly-boy Herman, ripping up the jumps on the MX track, after the outride - he was CLEARING the main tabletop!!!

plenty more photos available in the online photo album....please visit!

Kodiak Guy and Warthog do Hlabane Lake - 12 Jan 2008

2008-01-15T20:01:00.000+02:00

Having recently acquired his latest toy, a 2006 Kodiak 400 4x4, Mitch has been seen riding all the backroads and forest tracks within a 50 kay radius of Richards Bay.

He, and Warthog, who had been laid off with a self-inflicted ear injury for the past 2 months and had thus been suffering from withdrawal symptoms, joined up with Sergio, Denver and gang on an explorative jaunt to Lake Hlabane...

Ride plan - Coastal dune forest areas until the lake then attempt to navigate the western bank of the lake.

Participants : 10x riders on various bikes, including 2 spanking new Can-Am Outlanders.

The route to the lake was interrupted with frequent stops for refreshments. One of the stops included some fun in the 'Bowl'.

Sergio, on his trusty and kitchen sink-carrying Kymco MXU 300

Arriving at the lake was celebrated with Sergio preparing scrambled egg and bacon rolls

Limited Edition Can-Am 800 Outlander MAX XT!!!!

This was Denver Speed, getting his YFZ450 bogged down....

The route then took the team through an informal settlement to the lake side where the ride slowed considerably.The route was interrupted with numerous tree stumps, logs swamps and banks.

The 2WD quads were frequently man-handled over and around the obstacles.

At one stream-crossing, only 3 of the bikes were dragged across, semi submerged. The rest of the team took the opportunity to ride around the stream.

The going was slow, hot and after 3 hours 3 riders needed to head back as it was 13h00 and were only half way.

The rest of the team pushed on and returned home shortly before dark with complaints of sore butts.

General comments on the trip:

The dune forest section- will do it again.
The lake - count me and most others out.... I need to feel the breeze.

submitted by Kodiak Guy, with photos from his Nokia N95 and Warthog's digital cam. More pics can be found in our online photo albums

Sergio Rides to Jolly Robino - 6 December 2007

2008-01-15T09:00:00.001+02:00

Sergio and family and friends rode to Jolly Robino with 21 quads and 3 tweelies, and backup vehicles with braaistands and cooler boxes and extra fuel!

I HAVE to ride with these guys, soon - they certainly know how to do it right!!!!

GPS track part 1 - actual vs planned route

GPS track part 2 - actual vs planned route

Sergio's write-up is as follows:

Date : 06.01.2008
Meeting place : Birdswood entrance to forest (before airport)
number of quads/bikes/riders : 21 quads - 2 bikes - 23 riders in total
Distance covered : +- 100km's
Any other GPS data : see above - maps and gps data.

This outride was arranged as one of our riders (Tannie Jenny - who is over 60 , rides a Polaris 250) was going in for an operation on the 7th and would not be able to ride for 2 to 3 months.

The group met behind Birdswood and departed at 07h00am, stopping at various spots on the way for drinks. We met our back up bakkie (driven by my father in law) at the Sokhulu / RbM
crossing.

From there we rode to the RBM concrete dam and then down to the beach, where we all braaied some meat and had a social. Some of the guys then rode to the Jolly Robino.

The ride was fantastic as we had good company and cool weather with some light rain.

Michelle rolled her Kymco 300 Maxxer just before we got to the beach - luckily, it was on the soft sand so she was fine, but her bike suffered a few scratches and broken front plastics.

From the beach we rode almost to Kwambo, turning into the forest and making our way back to my house at Veldenvlei in the late afternoon.

The group of riders that rode varied in age from 7 years old to 62 years old and the quads ranged from a 90cc Polaris to a couple of 800cc Can-Ams.

text and photos submitted by Sergio, GPS tracks by Victor

Kwambo ride - Sunday 6 January

2008-01-07T10:20:00.000+02:00

3 Yamahas cannot fit on a dirt road, side-by-side-by-side!

On the ride from Richards Bay to Kwambo, Mitch managed to slow the Raptors of Bruno and Thaven down long enough to have a picture taken....had to be a short stop, since Raptors don't like to stand still...

A more scenic stop (?)

Roxy on her Mom's LTZ250, checking out the scenery, on a high spot just North of Kwambo.

Thaven is wondering whether his leg is going to last such a long ride....
needless to say, it did, and it was...

Is that a BEAR I see before me???

Mitch and the Bear, during the scenic break - he and the Furry One were like teenage sweethearts - they couldn't be parted....

Yes! I finally made it further than my front gate!!!

Since welcoming Baby Jinesa into his life, and helping to open a restaurant that shall remain unnamed, T has had precious little time to ride, but initiating a new bike into our group was occasion enough to bring him and the Rappie out of semi-retirement....

The King and I

We were glad for the company, and for the terrific weather.
This only just beats the peri-peri chicken liver starter at Piatto Meditteranean Kitchen for the perfect way to start a Sunday evening....oops!

Entry-level 4x4 quad shootout

2008-01-05T07:43:00.001+02:00

Shootout report for entry-level 4x4 quads, courtesy of QUAD Magazine (click the pic)

Christening Mitch's Kodiak - the Adventures with the Bear begins....

2008-01-05T06:11:00.000+02:00

Mitch, sitting comfy on his newly-acquired Kodiak 400, chatting to his Mom on the phone..."Mom, I'm sitting on this thing that's like a grizzly bear, but with wheels...."

After collecting his steed in Newcastle, Mitch was itching to ride, and though we had orginally planned to ride Kwambo valley later in the morning, when the call came to join the Can-Am Boys at the Quarry, we couldn't say no...

Vimal, JJ and Eddy, just before setting off on a bit of an outride from the Quarry

Having had a ball joint come loose whilst riding, some trailside repairs were performed, with Vimal's assistance, and some hurriedly-matched spares from Ride High with Yamaha in Empangeni

In all, the Quarry was a great place to ride, and Mitch is excited with his Bear...he's planned multiple rides on his first weekend, and is already plotting some multi-day expeditions into Swaziland and beyond.... - watch this space for more pix and video clips, and for more adventures with the Bear....

More Holiday Ride pix

2008-01-02T04:18:00.000+02:00

The King and I

2007-12-29T06:30:00.001+02:00

Pre-Xmas weekend riding

2007-12-23T20:40:00.000+02:00

Thuko and Zi tagged along with me to Eteza, and they had a thoroughly good time, especially as pillion riders on the King, when I "toured" the MX track....

Heidi joined me on a lovely Sunday evening ride in Kwambo valley. This pic was taken with the Kwambonambi airfield in the background, and the sun preparing to set....

Video clip: Quad ride at Mfuli Game Reserve

2007-12-22T02:27:00.001+02:00

Aziz, riding the kids trail at the ZBA year-end event at Mfuli Game Reserve.

ZBA Year End Ride at Mfuli Game Reserve

2007-12-20T22:57:00.000+02:00

Zi, in full gear, having a drinks break

What a GREAT Dad and Son outing

Counting tadpoles in the stream - I think he lost count at around 75!

The ride was filled with terrific scenery, and mud, water and rocks! The Kingquad had a rip-roaring time....

With around 150 entrants on the Sunday of this long weekend, this must be one of the busiest events in KZN this year - congrats to Peter and the team that made the ride possible - we look forward to riding with you again and in 2008.

Check out ZBA's website for ride report and loadsa photos...

Video clip: Thank God Its Mud Friday - Part 2

2007-12-20T22:46:00.001+02:00

I couldn't wait any longer to post this sequel, so HERE it is!!!
Enjoy the action, especially Abbas' mud shower courtesy of my KingQuad...

Video clip :Thank God Its Mud Friday - Part 1

2007-12-20T22:38:00.001+02:00

1st Helmet Cam video clip, taken at the last Mud Friday, 14 December.

Watch this space for the action-packed part 2, taken at the same outing...