Ride to Franschhoek

Ride to Franschhoek Via Villiersdorp, around Thierwaterskloof, through the pass and into Franschhoek.

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Picture taken of my 'Black Beast' in front of Rusthof Country House in Franschhoek...

We left home at 07h30 and met up with Stuart (and his new girlfriend, Karen), Glen and Niel at the local filling station. From there we left and met up again - some 50kms further at the filling station for a warm cup of hot chocolate with the rest of the chaps.
scenic motorbike rides franschhoek western cape south africa

scenic motorbike rides franschhoek western cape south africa

There was a group of 10 of us, which was really nice. You could see the weather was going to be awesome but because it is winter, it is very chilly in the morning. At some places it was +- 4 degrees Celsius, which you certainly feel in your hands. Both Chavonne and I tried to keep our gloves warm when we stopped by putting our gloves over the exhaust pipes. It only worked for a short while.
We left the filling station at 08h30 and headed over Sir Lowrys pass and all was still good. We passed Houhoek Inn and went through the pass and shortly thereafter we got off the N2 free way.

Let me tell you... as we got off the highway we hit the thickest mist I have seen in a long while. We could ride no faster than 80 km/h and had to wipe our visors with our gloves every 10 seconds. About 30 kms further the mist had lifted and we had gone around the dam at Villierdorp and where about to turn off to head through the pass that takes you to Franschhoek. scenic motorbike rides franschhoek western cape south africa

The chaps stopped for a cigarette and by some of the pics you can see some of the okes having a wee in the bushes. Phew!! It was teeeny cold!.
scenic motorbike rides franschhoek western cape south africa

Then this amazing guy and his wife stopped next to us on a Spyder Can-Am. He only has one arm and one leg. He joined us as we sped through the pass with the rest of the guys. The initial parts of the pass is seriously fast and it then changes into fairly tight stuff requiring a higher level of concentration. Thus guy blasted through the pass with his wife having to hang half off (dependant on the direction he was going otherwise they would have lost control). It was something special to behold.!! scenic motorbike rides franschhoek western cape south africa

When we got to Franschhoek we all sat down for a good breakfast and the usual banter amongst the guys. It was really a great morning and by then the sun had got some strength so the smiles just got bigger. scenic motorbike rides franschhoek western cape south africa

Going back we headed on home through Helshoogte Pass - for a good old 'dice' (race) before heading our separate ways.

I hope you enjoy the photos.
Cheers.
Wayne
scenic motorbike rides franschhoek western cape south africa

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