Archive of BMW Motorrad Club Cape (2006 - 2019)

The extra weight of a full tank of petrol and the TKC80’s did not instill confidence in the first ride on Friday after collecting my new 1200GSA. A while ago I test rode one from AA through the traffic at 4 PM and then around Camps Bay, Houtbay and back, and all seemed fine, no weight problem was felt. Admittedly the knobblies had been exchanged for Anarky’s and there was less than a full tank of petrol, which would have helped. So Saturday …….fiddle, fiddle, fiddle, admire, adjust, pack, repack…….and then the visitors came ……day gone. So Sunday….. fiddle, fiddle, fiddle, admire, adjust, pack, repack…….and then the visitors came…… chased visitors away by getting dressed in my riding gear and standing at the front door, admiring the bike and the fine weather until the visitors were gone. Great, off we go, clockwise around the peninsular. Straight to the Point from Glencairn, Kommetjie, Ou Kaapse Weg, Constantia Nek, Llundudno, Camps Bay. When I got to Camps Bay I slowed down for the traffic and lifted my visor, but it was already up, I think the windscreen works for me. Stopped in Sea Point for a bite to eat I was getting used to the feel of the knobblies and the full tank, yes, still full tank, as I was riding very cautiously, not putting the bike over too much. The computer indicating 5.4 L/100Km’s, did not go over 100 Km/H, also, did not go much slower than 100 either, beginning to get my confidence back. Although I still wonder about a quarter ton bike on knobblies. Going back home I took it easy again, less than 4000RPM, had time to play with the computer. On arriving home, computer indicated 191 km’s, THAT’S ALL, 5.4L/100Km’s and average speed of 69Km/H. Rode to work this morning in light rain, looked at the blue and gold glisten of fresh oil on Boyes Drive and played it cautious once again. Unfortunately I will only go to and from work for three days by bike and then up to Barrydale & Grootbrak Rivier for the long weekend……BY CAR…..previous arrangement. The wife said she will take the car and kids and I may take the bike, but I don’t know were the catch lies…mmmm! Do I take a chance or remain cautious. So if there is anyone out there that would like to borrow my bike for the weekend……………yea right! Donald