So, let me try adding some more value to what Plothond has said up till now, but firstly, to those of you who are now reading this after sharing this experience thanks! I feel that experiences like these lead to a fulfilled life. However, Im giving route planning a bit of a break now.
I also developed a carrier frame and tested it to its full potential it held up well. A few small additions and/or alterations and the final fabricated in aluminium will render a real useful carrier. Shame, Silver tried her best impression of a Basotho Pony, and she didnt disappoint, I bet she just wished the rider would stay on! ;D
Francois arrived on time and we had a coffee waiting for Plothond.
We lane split in the rain got out of the madhouse called Gauteng as quickly as possible, but had rain of varying degrees of density all the way to Ladybrand. Here we were refuelling somewhere and snacked on some home-made bread sandwiches which my loving wife packed
(Shes my nucleus and these types of trips really make me understand what my family means to me and put things back into proper perspective.)
As PH already said, we all met in Ladybrand, had a snack, and pushed through the border to the first fuel stop in Roma. This Trading Post is owner by the Thornes. Ashley Thorne was mentioned earlier he managed to dispatch Cecil and Craig Neuman, part of the recovery party.
(Thanks Ashley)
Some images on the uneventful, but highly pleasurable ride up to Semongkong.
Transalpman had the first lie-down.
Frankie supplied a litre of OBS which went down a real treat!
The Falls are really worth the effort!
As said, Semongkong Lodge is a beaut! The pub is nice and warm and the food is well worth the cost, which is not at all expensive.
Two old friends getting re-acquainted.
Some new ones getting acquainted.
Departing in good spirits.
Lets see if the images can speak a bit!
We decided to have a early lunch to get our strength back prior to tackling the next section. I am glad we did, because the next section was the main drag down this heart-break hill.
Plothond turning his back on the next section.
The locals were kind enough to try move the rocks! Futile, but they probably never had so many laughs and we were quite happy to have the company. Some of the kids walked in front of my bike and build the road ahead of me. Didnt always build a suitable road, but if I was alone up there I would not have the spirit to get down. I really enjoyed their faces.
Transalpman pleaded to join this ride. I dont think hell just ride with strangers ever again. He was suffering in a few ways and eventually the locals took control of his dilemma and helped his equipment down.
Plothond should have had a bigger smile, but how were we to know the worst for the day was over?
His sense of humour did return thankfully, or probably more aptly - he caught it as it came rolling by!
These guys kept us entertained. If my boys can have the same spirit in life as these youngsters then I think I will be doing ok as a parent.
We eventually got to the river, and whilst I was waiting for the rest I scouted the crossings. At this point I was unaware of the sump disaster. Soon enough PH and Transalpman informed me. Our caucus determined a plan to sleep then to continue good plan it was.
It has to be said that a group of MX/Enduro riders came past early in the morning and one of the riders owns a GSA as well. He was so kind as to ride two of the heavy bikes out of the Valley, leaving less for us to struggle with. He made it look easy. In our defence, he had not had the epic day before. But, thanks to him!
As Plothond said, the route from there on was a piece of cake. Actually, anything from now on is a piece of cake. The scenery in the area around Qachas Neck / Matatiele / Swartberg is awesome. I need to go back.
Talking about going back. I have not finished my business with this route. I plan to go back and complete it from Qachas Neck who wants in?
