Re: Re: 2007 BMW Safari in NZ

[Brian TANNER]

#6127

There were a fair number of BMWs at the Adventure Ride this year – 650s and the bigger bikes.  There were also a large number of very unhappy BMW riders, myself included.  it was advertised as a ride with 2 options 1.) for both larger Adv bikes (1200) with/out  pillion and 2.) an alternative more adventurous route for those wanting to test their skill base.  This turned out not to be the case – most of the course was doiwnright dangerous for 1200s 2 up and there were many unhappy riders – a large group of us ended up doing our own rides and just meeting at the motel in the evening.  I was very disappointed with the organisers attitude and some of their comments and in fact wrote them a diplomatic email on my return home – have yet to get a response and its 3 months ago.  I know I am not alone in my feelings. Having said that the 1200 is certainly capable of holding its own on most gravel roads but its a bitch on the technical sections and 2 up its nigh impossible.  One poor fella rammed his gear box on day 1 on his nearly new 1200 - end of the road for him.  I saw a fella on his 650 fall infront of me app 5 times.  The rider was exhausted and terrified.My wife and I did nearly 2000km of gravel and dirt on South Island on that trip incl. the Molesworth both directions.  We had a wonderful trip and met some great people on the adventure ride.  It would be absolutely fantastic if it were sponsored by BMW again however I have no problem with it being open to other bigger bikes as long as the route is sutable for the 1200 !Had I been riding an HP solo - no worries ! Rich