KTM is arguably one of the top lifestyle motorcycle brands in SA, offering riders all things fun and pleasurable in almost every motorcycling category. What this means, is that riders are spoiled for choice when faced with the decision of where and what they are riding that particular weekend or weekday—most will have more than one orange steed in their garage to choose from. With an array of KTM dealers spread across the country, sharing their passion and driving their own events, it’s so easy to find an orange group to ride with.
With orange blood flowing through their veins and with the craving to ride already set within their DNA, KTM South Africa organised an event for their loyal customers and supporters called “Orange Day”. This particular orange day was catered for their street riders, no not just for the ‘Dukester’, but for all who love the grippy stuff called tar.
Customers, dealers and families started arriving at Ridgeway bar, the meetup point at 7:00 this past Sunday morning, and we were met with a typically warm V-twin, Parallel-twin and big bore thumper welcome. Everyone soon loosened up, thanks to some warm cups of coffee, good old bike talk and a family type of bond for all things orange. KTM also dangled the carrot when they said, “the first 100 riders to arrive at the starting point get a free drink and meal pass.”
With 100 odd KTMs parked outside, our mugs drained of their caffeinated substance and a quick look at the route map that KTM plotted for us, we were on our way to Barbados bar in Hartebeesport. Before you ask, no there was no mass ride at 80 km/h on the highway to the end location. KTM don’t believe in cues, hence the map.
The riders had free will to decide on how they’d end up at the final destination, most headed out with their close riding mates and others rode with their local KTM dealer group. Some fun and games were also had on the way there, in typical KTM fashion and some riders may have even added a few km to the map—this is all part of riding bikes.
We slotted in behind Thomas Tonking from KTM Centurion, who led our 20-odd rider group through urban sprawl and open B-roads before crossing the iconic Hartbeespoort Dam Wall. With torque-rich motors almost naturally lofting the front wheels past 10:30 and angry exhausts bouncing their soundtrack off the valley’s walls; this was the signal for the chief at Barbados to flip our burger patties onto the grill.
It’s days like these when you’re surrounded by beautiful views, good food and like-minded motorcyclists that you really appreciate riding and life as a whole. We at ZA Bikers are really impressed to see brands like KTM that focus on bringing customers into the brand and building long-lasting relationships. With one successful “Orange Day” completed we would love to see more of these events in the future and possibly an “Orange Weekend”.
So, if you find yourself twiddling your fingertips and don’t know where to ride, keep an eye on our Biking Events calendar as we try to update you on all the local rides and events that are taking place throughout the year.
