Namibia 2017, Tough Call

This post requires background for context. Amanda (not on this trip Johnny, relax, you did not miss anything) and I have been Adventuring Namibia since 2003. Every trip has been memorable for different reasons, good & bad. Through the years Ive learned to heed the signs, when Mother Nature speaks, you listen and never tempt fate, its not worth it. No matter what.

With 1000km to cover including a stop for tyres at KTM Windhoek it was going to be a long day in the saddle and we could hardly afford any problems. With a dodgy oil pressure light and rather tired looking chain, I decided to err on the side of caution and let the guys continue to Namibia Desert Lodge without me.

A tough decision made very easy, primarily based on previous experience, but also with the help of the locals and Opuwo Lodge owner, Wouter. A keen biker (hate that word) himself, when he got wind of my situation, he offered to take me to Oshakati where we would stay over with his mate Braam, who is a regular customer of ours 😳and we would arrange further logistics over a braai. Done deal!

As it happens, Ian left his car key in the room, I now have that with me.

On a previous trip I had Oil Pressure Light problems with my 950, the very first demo Adventure in the country. We, 2 x 950s followed by a mate in my 4×4, struggled on for two days, falling increasingly behind schedule, changing plans, putting pressure on ourselves, ultimately making worse decisions, until eventually the motor expired 12 km outside Karas. We then attempted to tow the bike into Karas, but managed to yank the bike out from underneath me, slamming it on my foot, breaking 5 bones, requiring 3 pins. Theres more, but my point is I have seen the “Oil Pressure Light” movie, its a horror story!

Only once the boys had left did I take a moment to look at google maps and realised just how far we are from home, just 180km from Angola! On The Generals trips, I just follow, no map, no gps, just chill, love it! Martin says I live on planet Zybilex, I keep inviting him over.

Demolished a Biltong salad for lunch, loaded the 1290 onto Isuzu and we headed off to Oshokati, Wouter excitedly pointing out all his memories and projects he has on the go, between calls and other interruptions, while I breath in the beautiful surroundings. These guys live a different life! Or do we?

Namibia has become a tourist destination, hospitality is their game, but this is next level treatment, vip stuff, money cannot buy!!!

Check out Braams uber cool 1190R

The boys eventually arrived safely at Namib Desert Lodge in the early evening. Looks like they having a blast and Im very jealous, but I am thoroughly enjoying the unexpected turn of events. Next stop, Joes Beerhouse, Windhoek! #bucketlist #tick

Love the way these things have a tendency to work themselves out.

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Ashley
  • Ashley
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