Barberton meander with my mates

[FredK]

After a long wait due to COVID and a quick spell in hospital for a hernia repair procedure, we could finally depart on a trip to the lowveld, using the picturesque mining town of Barberton as a base. 3 bikes, a lone 790 Adv R and two GS1200’s were the weapons of choice, and a compromise of tarmac and dirt was the plan. Although there are dirt road options close to the JHB and PTA surrounds, the intention was to head out as quick as possible on the N4 towards Nelspruit. Coming from different locations, the journey started with us meeting for coffee in Centurion. A boring (but brisk) ride brought us to a fuel stop at Milly’s, just before Machadodorp. We proceeded towards Lydenburg and took the first turn-off before Bambi, on the Elandshoogte road which ends up at Ngodwana. The views along this road are exceptional with a combination of dirt and tarmac.

 

[ClemS]

:sip:

 

[punisher]

O0 :thumleft:

 

[Dorsland]

Couldn't you guys have washed the bikes for the photoshoot man. eepwall: ot: :ricky:

1964, 5 De Villiers street, down the road from the jail.  Take some pix for me if you are still in the area please Fred.

 

[FredK]

From Ngodwana we proceeded towards Barberton via Kaapsche Hoop on the picturesque Kaapsche Hoop dirt road for a stop for coffee and cake at the Bohemian Groove Café.

Our base for the next 3 days was the Barberton Mountain Lodge with a panoramic view looking north over Barberton and surrounds.

 

[FredK]

Our routes for the next 3 days was planned and loaded into the GPS. But as always, you only know what it holds in store when you are on the route. Riding through plantations is hit and miss. Luckily we were able to pass through most of the check points unchallenged.

 

[FredK]

The scenery and dirt roads was special. Nothing too difficult, but absolutely enjoyable.

 

[FredK]

The winding back road from Barberton to Kaapsche Hoop went from wide open to grown over in the plantations

 

[FredK]

Cooling off after a day in the saddle

 

[FredK]

Our final route going home passed through the old mining village of Msauli. Quite depressing to see how it has been stripped and looted. At the exit of the village one crosses the Komati river with its tranquil views

 

[Sheepman]

Lekker trip FredK  :thumleft:

 

[frankmac]

Thanks for sharing. Beautiful countryside.

 

[Ian in Great Brak River]

Nice ride. I was through there last week, Dullstroom and Kaapsehoop was a handy stop over for me on my way to Hoedspruit.

8)

 

[Noneking]

Lekker RR!

 

[Nev]

Awesome Ride Report