CEO OF BMW MOTORRAD TAKES A RIDE IN NAMIBIA
The CEO of BMW Motorrad, Mr Hendrik von Kuenheim, and his team of 7 invited 11 journalists from around the world to join them on an off-road motorcycle tour in the beautiful landscapes of Namibia. Jurgen Muess, of Karoo Biking, provided a guided tour, making sure to take in as many of the breathtaking sights as possible.
BMW shipped brand new bikes; 15 BMW F800GS, 2 BMW R1200GS and 2 Husqvarna (TE310, TE449), to Windhoek in Namibia.
The 5-day ride covered over 1300km over a vastly changing landscape. The group left from Windhoek, the destination on day one being Erindi Game reserve. On day two the route went from Erindi, via Omaruru and Brandberg to Swakopmund. Day 3 saw the group travelling via Walvis Bay to Sossusvlei. Close to the highest dune along the coastal dune belt, at 130 meters tall Dune 7, the Husqvarnas felt right at home, playing in the sand. The tour continued via Kuiseb and Gaub Pass to the small towns of Solitaire and Sesriem.
Day 4 was the day of blissful rest and recharging; the day started off at Sossusvlei Lodge, enjoying the surroundings on board a URI Landcruiser and walking up Dune 45. To revitalize body and mind after a day of activities, a lovely bush dinner was enjoyed close to the lodge.
On the last riding day, the group travelled up Spreetshoogte Pass. On top of the escarpment, the bikes were put through their paces in heavy mud and rain. The 2011 rainy season was indeed a wet one.
On the final night a beautiful dinner was had where the group reminisced about their experiences and highlighted their despair at having to leave this Jewel of Africa!
