2018 KTM Adventure Rally

By Réhann Coetzee

The second KTM Adventure Rider Rally will be held in Swaziland’s Ezulwini Valley from 23 to 26 August. KTM staff, dealers and enthusiasts will gather at the Lugogo Sun for a repeat – but improved – performance of last year’s inaugural Adventure Rally.

“Each day will start and end at Lugogo Sun and consists of two skill level routes – from an easy but scenic Green Route to a more technical and physically demanding Orange Route,” says Riaan Neveling, marketing manager of KTM Motorcycles SA.

“Both routes will take riders across some of the most beautiful scenery Swaziland has to offer. Local route directors Sam Breero and Craig Garrell have years of experience in these mountains and have put together a phenomenal riding experience for participants. The focus is to cover as much distance as possible without using the main roads. If single-track, river beds and the occasional hill-climb or descent is your thing, then you will be in adventure riding heaven!”

He says the KTM Adventure Rider Rally is designed for KTM 640, 690, 950, 990, 1090 S & R, 1190 S & R and 1290 Super Adventure S, R and T Models.

“We advise against bringing smaller bikes, as we will be covering some decent mileage and fuel tank range will be an issue.”

Last year’s event took place deep in the Central Drakensberg Valley with spectacular views of Cathkin Peak, Champagne Castle, Monks Cowl and the Dragon Peaks. More than 175 KTM enthusiasts took on the two-day riding experience that offered three route options. After a long day in the saddle everyone was treated by famous 80s rock band Ballyhoo.

“There has been a lot of interest in this year’s event and we had to limit entries to 210 enthusiasts. So, we are encouraging KTM enthusiasts to get their entries in early to avoid disappointment,” he says.

“Participants will learn from KTM experts as they cover a technical overview of all KTM Adventure models in between jam-packed days of dual-sport riding. We will also host free demo rides to all participants on the 2018 KTM line-up, including the 1090 Adventure, 1090 Adventure R, 1290 Super Adventure S and 1290 Super Adventure R.

“This venue has it all: luxurious rooms, amazing food and a huge stage that will host our live band. We will start each morning with breakfast surrounded by picturesque mountains and some of the best scenery Swaziland has to offer. Lunch will be served on the ride and there will be a different dinner theme for each night.”

For the non-riding spouses or kids, facilities at the hotel include a casino, spa, convention centre, business centre, an 18-hole championship golf course, lawn bowls, squash, tennis and horse riding. The health spa adds a whole new dimension to the peaceful surroundings of the Valley.

Neveling says the costs include lodging, all meals and an event goody-bag. Entry costs R4 690 per person sharing or R6 490 for a single-supplement. To enter online, go to https://bit.ly/2NGdvCU

The photos are from last year’s event.