We head out to KZN and the greater Drakensberg area, to bring you an alternative take on ascending 1400 vertical metres, a world of off-piste trails and riding that will test the average man and his machine to their limits.
A line I’ve been thinking about for a while now, planning this rather unique trip up into the depths of the Drakensberg mountains. After a quick 15 minute flip in the helicopter, and a 1400 vertical metre ascend made short work of, you find yourself perched on top of a grassy plateau overlooking the rest of the world. Steep cliffs on the one side and cattle paths leading back down to the collection point, on the other. However, it’s not as simple as letting go of the brakes and flowing down manicured trails without breaking a sweat… on the contrary, this is a mountain bike adventure, and its got everything from off-camber, boulder-filled gullies, to hike-a-bike sections that’s only ridable for the most experienced of riders, and amazing open grassy plains stretching towards the horizon.
Mark Millar’s Mancave #mmm really is something special. Dirt bikes, mountain bikes, and everything else in-between required to build up more two-wheeled toys. A quick check over of all our bikes, to make sure everything is set for the challenges the Drakensberg might throw at us in the morning.
But first, time to call it a day and get some sleep.
4:30am and some jet fuel for those in need of some caffeine to wake up properly.
Hydration packs and trail food are highly recommended, as the day could get pretty long out there.
Pilot Greg, whipping out his toy, and commencing with the pre-flight checks.
Not the most high tech approach to shipping your bike to the top of a mountain, but it works a charm. Front wheels removed and a bit of fiddling later, you got yourself six bikes ready for action.
Some paperwork to make it official. Heli biking drop off is a go.
Kathryn Fourie
Successful drop off with a quick bike assembly to follow, before the pilot leaves you at the mercy of the mountain, some 2,000 metres above sea level.
Nothing to do now but ride. It’s only about 20km…
Mark Millar
So many line options – or none at all – depending on your level of skill.
Kirk Hollis | Rockslide Heli Biking
Kathryn Fourie
Tim Bentley is no stranger to going downhill on a bike, taking this washed out, eroded section in his stride. Chicken line towards the right.
Proper back country riding in the middle of nowhere, with the majestic Drakensberg behind you and thunder clouds gathering in the distance. Yes.
Tim Bentley
Back to civilization and a well deserved beer & burger to finish of an epic day.
This project is made possible by:
GPS: 29°01’06.9″S 29°26’12.7″E
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All images by Ewald Sadie
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Riders : Tim Bentley | Kathryn Fourie | Mark Millar | Kirk Hollis
Stay tuned to Bike Hub for more Trail Daze coming soon…
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