Day 5 Ben 10 eco Challenge. 2 XT500s plus KTM690. First Thumper to succeed

Day 4 . . .
3 mountain passes to target! what a challenge. Mud snakes goats sheep cows dear waterfalls rivers loose rocks and steep declines and then inclines. 565km. 2650m above sea level. 4 seasons in one day.
Can a 41 year old Street Scrambler do what many modern bikes just can't do? Can two inexperienced riders, one in his early twenties and the other mid sixties power their way through?
everybody said it was impossible.
Bastervootslaan pass and Volunteershoek would beat us.
I put the bike down five times damaging my hand, my shoulder and breaking my clutch lever. Riding in the rain and the dark, through heavy mud, crossing rivers without a clutch lever is possible. River crossings and torrential rainfall will flood your points, you'll foul up the spark plugs because of the high altitude and sometimes the stubborn bike just needs a few extra kicks.
You'll need a asatanic mechanic, a tool box and patience. Anti-inflammatory pills, wet weather clothing and a sense of humour helps. We rode three bikes together with a support vehicle at the bottom of each pass. We were lucky with our team who working together, riding at paces that suit the group and keeping an eye out for your mate when he's in trouble.
It was a life achievement that 4 months ago I didn't even know about. I only started riding bikes 18 months ago.
If you are a beginner or medium level rider with a reasonably capable medium-sized off-road bike, good friends with vehicles who are prepared to do the logistics and catering, you too will have an experience of a lifetime.
Choose a XT. Maybe we'll invite you to join us next year to do it all again.

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