Heels & Horsepower Magazine

BMW Motorrad presents the new Ride & Style Collection 2023

When it comes to motorcycling, there is no such thing as weather that is too wet, too cold or too hot, it all depends on having the right outfit.

BMW was the first motorcycle manufacturer in the world to present its own complete rider equipment. At that time the gear was made of impregnated cowhide, but was equipped with protective zones as well as safety reflectors to increase visibility at night. This proved to be the starting signal for an unprecedented success story.

The world’s largest range of motorcycle rider equipment.

In the following decades, BMW Motorrad consistently followed its goal to make motorcycling as safe and as comfortable as possible as well as fashionably attractive and stylish.

Today it offers an unparalleled range of rider equipment surpassing all motorcycle manufacturers – always driven by the developers’ urge to make existing products even better and to develop new innovative solutions to make motorcycle riding even more fun and carefree.

More than 100 new rider equipment products for the 2023 motorcycling season.

For the coming season, BMW Motorrad presents the Gear & Garment Collection 2023 with more than 100 new products ranging from helmets, gloves and boots to rider suits, jackets, trousers, casual wear, functional wear and accessories. Developed by motorcyclists for motorcyclists, with enthusiasm, passion and a lot of love for functional details and stylish design. 

BMW Motorrad Presents A Fred Kodlin Customized R 18 B HEAVY DUTY

Anyone who talks about the US customizing scene mentions Fred Kodlin almost in the same breath. For more than 40 years, he has dedicated himself to customizing motorbikes, and now, for the first time, Kodlin has customized a BMW R 18 B.

Anyone who talks about the US customizing scene mentions Fred Kodlin almost in the same breath. For more than 40 years, he has dedicated himself to customizing motorbikes, from radically modified creations to sophisticated new designs. He was the very first non-US citizen to be inducted into the Sturgis Hall of Fame; and now, for the first time, Fred Kodlin has set about customizing a BMW R 18 B.

BMW R 18 B: The perfect bike for customizing.

Featured at the 2023 Daytona Bike Week in Florida recently, the customized R 18 B HEAVY DUTY is a spectacular work of functional ‘art’.

Viewed from the side, the fly-line drops sharply to the rear from the chopped windshield taken from the Original BMW Motorrad Accessories range and finally runs harmoniously into the side cases made by Kodlin out of glass fibre-reinforced plastic and the low rear end.

From the top the R 18 B HEAVY DUTY is characterised by a strong waistline in the seat area and a flowing connection to the side cases.

Finally, the technical chassis highlight is an air suspension system at the front and rear, supported by a compressor placed barely visibly behind the left side case. This allows the R 18 B HEAVY DUTY to be lowered and raised in a fraction of a second.

A front spoiler including a 3-colour underfloor lighting system and a front mudguard, are also made of sheet metal, with the mudguard fitting snugly around the 21-inch front wheel.

Kodlin also created a corresponding counterpart for the rear wheel from two R 18 B rear mudguards joined together, in which the rear and side indicator lights are integrated in a very discreet manner.

R 18 B boasts loudspeakers by Marshall and has an amplifier fitted inside.

The customizing job is rounded off by a seat made by Kodlin and an instrument cover with covers made of Alcantara and imitation leather, as well as specially made handlebars and a self-created exhaust system.

Elaborate paintwork by tattoo artist Marcel Sinnwell

Marcel Sinnwell has painted other Kodlin showbikes in the past.

For this project, the colour gradients were completely airbrushed with translucent paint. The inspiration for this was the mixing of colour pigments in the paint and especially the way they form streaks in the milky basecoat when first stirred. The result goes along very well with the Daytona Bike Week, where complex and colourful paint schemes are more than just good form.

Additional design touches on the R 18 B HEAVY DUTY are provided by hand-painted pinstripes and an airbrushed pattern on the rear mudguard that combines Kodlin and “100 years of BMW Motorrad”.

The brake callipers, gearshift and foot brake levers and footrests, however, are BMW Motorrad standard components that have been colour-matched.

GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier South Africa – Day 3. Team SA is announced!

Saturday’s events at the GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier South Africa culminated in the announcement of Team South Africa, destined to compete in the International GS Trophy 2022 in Albania

After the activity of the first full day of Qualifier action on Friday, the competitors were keen to catch up on some sleep ahead of another busy schedule on the final day. Just after midnight, though, the night air was pierced by sirens summoning the competitors from their tents to their motorcycles for two more night-time exercises.

They were back in their tents two hours later, only to be woken again at 05:00 for a skills test in the bush. This proved to the warm-up exercise before a hearty breakfast, whereafter the competitors continued with several sand exercises, and tackled challenges to test their resilience on steep hills and corners. One of the exercises played out at the dreaded Wall of Life at the CountryTRAX facility, a deep circular pit set at an angle of about 60 degrees that tested the competitors’ nerves, while battling gravity and a tricky entry and exit point – keeping their motorcycles upright.

The competitors were kept busy until the late afternoon, after which time it was the turn of the GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier South Africa marshals to tally the day’s scores.

Saturday evening’s dinner was followed by the final points ceremony and the announcement of Team South Africa that will compete in the International GS Trophy 2022 in Albania.

Team South Africa for the 2022 competition is: Gerrit du Toit (Limpopo), Dalton de Bruin (Free State), and Warren Venter (Gauteng).

Christelle van der Meulen and Hanneli Zondagh were the highest-ranking ladies after the GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier South Africa. The International GS Trophy 2022 organisers now have the task of determining who will compete in the final women’s teams, based on the global entries received. The announcement of the official ladies’ teams to compete in the International GS Trophy 2022 in Albania will follow.

All-in-all, the weekend’s activities near Amersfoort in Mpumalanga again demonstrated the breadth of skill held by GS riders in South Africa. Once the weekend celebrations taper off, preparations will begin in earnest in the hunt for a fourth consecutive International GS Trophy win.   

GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier South Africa – Day 1. The scoreboard is open!

The wait is over! The search for members of the South African team headed to Albania 2022 is on!

The peaceful farm near Amersfoort in Mpumalanga, ordinarily the home of Country TRAX Off-Road Riding Academy, was turned into a hive of activity this week when the BMW Motorrad South Africa machine rolled in for the start of the GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier South Africa.  

Tents were pitched, flags hoisted, cables laid, and catering facilities set up in the preceding days as the farm was transformed into the Covid-secure hub for the 31 men and women who would be competing for a place in Team South Africa for next year’s International GS Trophy.

The eight regional teams, each comprising three members, and the seven ladies started arriving on the afternoon of Thursday, 9 September. With Covid-19 formalities out of the way, competitors were left to prepare their equipment for the weekend’s challenge and familiarise themselves with their individual luxury tents that would be their home for the weekend.

It was at the gala dinner where Penny Sterley, General Manager of BMW Motorrad South Africa officially welcomed all the riders, marshals, and support staff to the GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier South Africa. What followed was to set the scene for the action-packed weekend.

After the initial rider and event briefing, the competitors participated in the first official challenge of the qualifier with a night navigation exercise using a GPS track log.

The night ride was completed without incident by midnight and, just like that, the scoreboard was opened for the rest of the weekend!

It certainly got the competitive juices pumping ahead of the weekend of challenges, set to culminate with the announcement on Saturday night, 11 September, of the five-person team going on to compete at the International GS Trophy 2022 in Albania in the late European summer.

Top amateur riders hit the track to BMW Motorrad SA’s GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier in Amersfoort

On 9 September 2021, top amateur GS riders will head to Amersfoort in Mpumalanga to battle for a chance to represent Team South Africa in the International GS Trophy to be hosted in Albania in 2022.

There is little doubt that South Africa is home to some of the best off-road riders in the world, as evidenced by victory in three successive International GS Trophies – 2020, 2018 and 2016 – and two second place finishes.

Thirty-one riders will from September 9 to 12 encamp to the sprawling 600-hectare Country TRAX Enduro Park, outside Amersfoort. There, on a mix of sand tracks, water passages, rocky terrain and gravel tracks, the riders will be put through their paces in a range of challenges to test their riding prowess, fitness, navigation and technical expertise.

Image: Penny Sterley, Head of BMW Motorrad South Africa

Country TRAX is an official training partner of BMW Motorrad South Africa and will facilitate the GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier South Africa. The Country TRAX team has been core to the International GS Trophy contest since 2010, and its experience is a boon for the seven women and 24 men who have successfully progressed through the eight regional qualifiers hosted this year.

South Africa has built a reputation as the team to beat.

– Penny Sterley, Head of BMW Motorrad South Africa

Competitors will compete in various exercises designed in collaboration with the International GS Trophy organisers to challenge the riders in a safe and fair environment. After the first day of exercises, up to 20 riders will progress to Saturday’s testing rounds.

The final scores will be announced at the finale on Saturday evening where the three men and two women to represent Team South Africa and the #SpiritofGS in Albania in 2022 will be declared.

 

Penny Sterley, Head of BMW Motorrad South Africa, says: “The GS Trophy is traditionally a highlight on our GS owners’ calendars. Despite the challenges presented by a global pandemic, this year’s GS Trophy will nevertheless have all the elements to Make Life a Ride!

“I wish all participants in the GS Trophy 2022 Qualifier South Africa the very best of luck. South Africa has built a reputation as the team to beat, and we are determined to make history with an unprecedented fourth successive win in Albania next year,” Sterley concluded.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the course will be devoid of supporters and the event will be hosted in a sealed environment where all marshals, instructors, suppliers, staff and participants will be party to safety protocols in line with the current national regulations.

Meet The New R 1250 GS And R 1250 GS Adventure: The Expert Partners For Travelling On-Road And Adventure Riding

The new BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure have been designed to emphasize their more precise nature and universal talents. Now available in South Africa, here’s what we know about the latest 2-wheelers from BMW Motorrad.

The newest additions to BMW Motorrad’s GS range – the BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure – has arrived in South Africa and our motorcycle contributor Bongiwe Didiza is in attendance at the launch in the Western Cape.  We’ll share her first impressions of the new adventure motorcycles soon.  

Highlights of the new BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure:

  • Original boxer engine with BMW ShiftCam technology for varying the valve control times and the valve lift on the intake side.
  • Powerful acceleration, exemplary consumption and emission values.
  • Power and torque: 100 kW at 7 750 rpm and 143 Nm at 6,250 rpm.
  • Knock sensor system for optimised touring capability.
  • New BMW Motorrad Integral ABS Pro as standard.
  • Three riding modes as standard.
  • New “Eco” riding mode for particularly economical driving as standard.
  • Pro riding modes with additional riding modes and new riding mode preselection as well as dynamic engine brake control as optional equipment ex works.
  • Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) as standard.
  • Electronic Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” chassis with fully automatic load compensation.
  • Vehicle voltage and USB sockets as standard.
  • Seat heating for rider and passenger for increased travelling and touring capability as optional equipment ex works.
  • Handlebar risers by 30 mm as optional equipment ex works.
  • In addition to the standard seat height adjustability, a wide range of seat height options ex works.
  • Connectivity: Multifunctional instrument cluster with 6.5-inch full-colour TFT display and numerous features as standard on the R 1250 GS.
  • Intelligent emergency call as optional equipment ex works.
  • “40 Years GS” anniversary edition.
  • Extended range of optional equipment and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories.
  • Hill Start Control Pro (HSC Pro) with advanced function as optional equipment ex works.
  • New full-LED adaptive headlight as optional equipment ex works.
  • New lighting functions, cruising light and function-integrated turn indicator bulbs as optional equipment ex works.
  • One attractive basic colour each and the two triple black and Rallye style variants ex works as optional equipment.

PRICING: BMW R 1250 GS

Light White R 322 900.00
Triple Black R 333 400.00
Style Rallye Package (HP) R 336 400.00
Special Edition 40 Years of GS R 350 400.00

PRICING: BMW R 1250 GSA

Ice Grey R 343 700.00
Triple Black R 352 200.00
Style Rallye Package (HP) R 354 300.00
Special Edition 40 Years of GS R 368 700.00

 

RIDER REVIEW: Zanele McMurray renews her love for cruisers thanks to the BMW R 18 Cruiser

Zanele McMurray, aka Leidee Zee, has a long standing love for cruisers but only one machine had alluded her, the BMW R 18. When the opportunity arose for her to ride it, she didn’t hesitate to pull on her leathers and take it for a spin.

I had the pleasure of riding the eye-catching BMW R 18 at the 15thInternational Female Ride Day on the 1stof May 2021.  I knew I would enjoy it but boy oh boy was I in for a treat! 

Steeped in the tradition of historical BMW motorcycles in terms of technical features and design cues, the R 18 is an undeniably beautiful piece of mechanical artwork. 

As my eyes greedily gobbled up my first up-close sighting of the BMW R 18, the first feature they rested upon, was the BMW R 18’s sleek chrome exhaust pipe closely followed by its strikingly large LED headlight. 

Thereafter my gaze took in the epicenter of my ride for the day, the BMW R 18’s newly developed 2-cylinder boxer engine that is both intimidating and attractive at the same time.  Finally, I paid attention to the big comfortable seat which I appreciated very much.  

As a lady standing at 1,64m tall, the BMW R 18’s 690mm seat height gave me further confidence that I would be able to easily handle the cruiser, even though it has a wet weight of 345kg.

– Zanele McMurray

As a lady standing at 1,64m tall, the BMW R 18’s 690mm seat height gave me further confidence that I would be able to easily handle the cruiser, even though it has a wet weight of 345kg.  Assured by a combination of the cruiser’s seat height and its low suspension I channeled my inner “Boss Lady” and felt a charge of excitement for the ride ahead.

Another feature I liked about the BMW R 18 is that It has a keyless start function

– ZANELE MCMURRAY

The BMW R 18 comes standard with three ride modes – Rain, Rock, and Roll, which, depending on the terrain, greatly assist with stability control and throttle response.   

Another feature I liked about the BMW R 18 is that It has a keyless start function. This takes away the panic of losing the key, which I can attest is be a big plus among female riders as we need to fit countless other things into our small bags and pockets. 

When it comes to power the BMW R 18 does not disappoint.  Fitted with a 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, horizontally opposed engine the cruiser holds its own in terms of speed, ride quality, stable and comfortable. Powered by its 67kW, 158Nm 1802cc engine I found myself gliding effortlessly amidst the numerous motorcycles commandeered by the hundreds of women bikers participating in the South African leg of the international ride.  

Astride my brutish ride, the BMW R 18 felt much lighter in motion than when stationary.  I found that the cruiser’s wide tyres (Front: 2.5 x 19 / Rear:  5.0 x 16) also helped maintain the bike’s traction.  Other key highlights about the R 18 include Hill Start Control and Reverse Assist, both of which make maneuverability much easier and convenient.  

As a female rider, I would recommend this beautiful beast of a bike. It is a dream to ride and if affordability isn’t an issue, I would go as far as saying this cruiser is a must-have.  As gigantic as the R 18 looks it is just an adorable and playful puppy that offers an exciting yet cultivated riding experience. 

That said, the only black mark I have against the BMW R 18 is the fact that it does not have a fuel gauge indicator, something I sincerely hope BMW Motorrad sees fit to add in the updated models of these otherwise impressive bikes.

Price:  R 319 900-00

Thanks to BMW Motorrad Fourways for the bike loan

About Zanele McMurray Zanele

McMurray is a female motorcycle rider and mother of two teenage girls, with 15-years riding experience to her name.   Her first bike was a Honda VFR 400cc and over the years she has and ridden various motorcycles including a Honda 750cc Shadow, Thunderbird 1700cc, 2 Suzuki Hayabusas, a Suzuki Boulevard 800cc, a Honda CBR 1000 and a Sukuzi B-King.  Zanele is passionate about cancer awareness and has been part of cancer awareness groups such as Journey of Hope and Cancervive.

Bike Review: Bongiwe Didiza ticks the BMW R NineT Pure off her bucket list at the 15th International Female Ride Day

Motorcyclist journalist Bongiwe Didiza took part in the 15th International Female Ride Day astride a bike she had long wanted to ride.

I had marked the 1stof May on my calendar as International Female Ride Day (IFRD), the only day in the year which celebrates women motorcyclists from all walks of life. For me, the 2021 Ride was going to be particularly exciting because the motorbike I would be riding, the BMW R nineT Pure, is one I have been drawn to for quite a while.

First introduced in 2013, the R nineT range has grown to include the R nineT Urban G/S, the R nineT Scrambler, and the R nineT Pure.  Sporting a combination of classic design meets modern technological invention, the R nine T derivatives carry the signature BMW roadster styling cues, reminiscent of early BMW Motorrad days. 

Also fetching their rides at the same time were Zanele McMurray and Crescentia Ndimande

– Bongiwe Didiza, motorcycle journalist, DRIVING IN HEELS

I collected my loan motorbike from BMW Motorrad Fourways, two days prior to the Ride.  I wanted a bit of time to get used to its features ahead of the big day. Looking at it, I was struck by its stylish vintage design, which complement its seemingly playful look. 

At first glance, the air/oil-cooled, 1170Cc boxer engine of the R nineT Pure didn’t look like much, which made it all the more difficult to believe it could produce 81kW of power and 116 Nm of torque.   

Also ferching their rides at the same time were Zanele McMurray who would be riding the BMW R 18, and Crescentia Ndimande who had chosen the the BMW F 900 XR.

Following a brief meeting with the dealer principal – Rodney Serfontein,  and a bike orientation, we took possession of the keys for our respective bikes and rode out of the dealership. 

 

As usual when I am on a bike, I have a gigantic smile under my helmet but while I was cheerfully enjoying my ride home a warning light came up on the circular instrument cluster.

When I arrived at home, I gave it a quick check, hoping I might spot the problem.  Satisfied that everything looked fine to me, but opting to err on the safe side, I made arrangements to take it back for an assessment the following day.

I had not known that the R nineT Pure did not have a fuel gauge indicator.

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

Arriving at Motorrad Fourways, Sales Executive Gift Gumbi whisked the motorbike into the workshop but returned almost immediately.  He was in stitches, laughing hysterically and between bursts of fresh laughter he spluttered that the warning light was the fuel light indicator and that the bike was very low on fuel. 

 

 

When he had calmed down reasonably enough to hear me, I tried – with little success – to explain why I had misinterpreted the fuel icon.  Of course I know what a low fuel icon light looks like but the R nineT Pure does not have the standard icon we are familiar with in a car.  

Added to that, I had not known that the R nineT Pure did not have a fuel gauge indicator; instead, its warning light is a simple triangular orange light.  

The more I tried to explain my rationale to Gift, the more he laughed and teased me

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

If there was a fuel guage I would probably have noticed that the fuel was low and may have made a connection between the warning light and the low fuel indicator.  

The more I tried to explain my rationale to Gift, the more he laughed and teased me.  Suffice to say, the experience taught me 2 things; the first being just how basic the R nine T Pure is and the other being that I will probably never live down this ‘oopsie’.

On a positive note, the blunder taught me that the R nineT Pure has a 17-litre tank and consumes 5-litres per 100kms. As I rode home, still chuckling to myself in disbelief, I was immensely grateful that the bike had not completely run out of fuel, leaving me stranded and bewildered at the side of the road.

Arriving at our meeting venue, I couldn’t help but notice how stunning the ladies looked, most of whom wore gear matching their rides.

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

From then on, I became acutely aware of just how basic the R nineT Pure is and soon realised it does not come standard with my favourtie creature comforts being riding modes, heated grips, and cruise control. That said, heated grips and cruise control are available as optional extras which customers can fit at will. 

Putting the humbling moment firmly behind me, I eagerly awaited IFRD.  Organized by The Lithas , the 2021 Ride comprised of two routes, on an on-road.  Had I not chosen to ride the sexy little roadster, I would have elected to ride on gravel.

The long anticipated day arrived, uncharacteristically accompanied by light winds and drizzle.  Undettered, I  headed out and arrived at Triumph Motocycles, Sandton, our meeting venue.  The ladies looked stunning on their machines, most wearing riding gear that matched their bikes.

Excited to be reunited with female riders I had not seen in a long time due to lockdown regulations, we mingled, enjoyed the delicious welcome refreshments, posed for photos, and signed the event day banner. 

The formalites and safety briefing dispensed with and the weather clearing up, the ladies got into formation and rode to our first stopover – Fire it Up in Randburg, then onto ROC Harley Davidson in Alberton where we were received with excitement, refreshments and gifts.  

Even in the sea of other beautiful motorcycles, I was aware of motorists admiring my R nineT Pure as they drove past us.

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

The Ride was leisurely and the ladies maintained a steady pace.  I was amazed at how smooth my bike rode even at such low speeds.  It cornered beautifully and maintained its balance. 

 

Even in the sea of other beautiful motorcycles, I was aware of motorists admiring my R nineT as they drove past us. It had already caused a stir from the start of the day, and at each stopover.  My fellow lady Pure riders truly appreciated it, commenting on its unique and classical good-looks.  A few ladies who own more than one bike expressed a desire to add it to their existing motorbike collection because of its sassy beauty.

The R nineT Pure is a no-frills, “shut-up & ride” sort of bike.

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

At our final destination, Bikers Warehouse in Randburg, a stunning high tea had been setup for us to mark the close of a safe and successful Ride as well as recognize and celebrate the Biker Queens we all are. 

 

The R nineT Pure is as its name suggests a no-frills, “shut-up & ride” sort of bike. As basic as it is, it offers absolute riding pleasure and is aimed at anyone on the market looking for an uncomplicated motorbike. 

That said, it is a very capable machine and is suited for leisurely trips to scenic destinations or unhurried rides around suburbia for a coffee meeting with the girls.  It is the type of bike I ride to attend a vintage motorbike show.  Similarly, I would pack it onto a train for use to tour the Garden Route in summer.

The R nineT Pure I was riding is powered by a four-stroke, two-cylinder horizontally opposed boxer engine and is available at BMW Motorrad Fourways at R145 000. It is a 2018 model wrapped in Option 719 colors.  

If however, you are looking to buy a newer R nineT Pure, the 2021 derivatives come with the following standard features:

  • 80kW power, 116Nm of torque
  • Road and Rain riding modes
  • ABS Pro with Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
  • LED headlight and white LED indicators
  • New suspension strut with travel-dependent damping (WAD)

Priced from R203 400-00

About Bongiwe Didiza

About Bongiwe Didiza Bongiwe Didiza is a motorcyclist with 10 years riding experience on various type of motorcycles; ranging from superbikes and cruisers to dual-purpose and adventure bikes.  She is the first Black female motorcycle journalist registered with the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists. Bongiwe is the  biking contributor for Driving In Heels where her test ride reviews and bike travel articles are published. She currently rides an R 1200 GSA but has owned a Suzuki GSX-R 750 and a BMW F 800 GS in the past.

READER REVIEW: Crescentia Ndimande takes charge of the BMW F 900 XR at the 15th International Female Ride Day

Anyone who has ever met me would be hard-pressed to use the word ‘tall’ to describe me, so, when it came to selecting a bike, I had to be mindful of which it would be. 

– Crescentia Ndimande

Anyone who has ever met me would be hard-pressed to use the word ‘tall’ to describe me. Not that I am diminutive but rather it is important that any motorcycle I chose has to accommodate my particular height. So, when it came to selecting a bike to use at the 15thInternational Female Ride Day 2021 I was careful in the iron horse which I would champion. 

The models on display at BMW Motorrad Fourways, were all appealing and at first, I gravitated towards the R 1600 RT; but after sitting on it I realized I would need to choose something much lower.  Gift Gumbi, Motorrad Sales Executive, suggested I try the F 900 XR and I immediately remembered it as the bike which Vuyi Mpofu had used on her Pride of Africa Ride the previous year.  Knowing that Vuyi is approximately the same height as me, I was hopeful that the F 900 XR would ‘fit’ me too. 

 

Jumping onto the bike and switching on the engine, I discovered yet another pleasant surprise – the 6.5-inch TFT screen with BMW Motorrad Connectivity.

– CRESCENTIA NDIMANDE

The model available to me was Galvanic Gold and from the moment I sat astride it I was confident the F 900 XR would suit me just fine.

To be sure, however, I asked to take it for a quick spin and discovered, to my delight, that it was a Keyless ride, further scoring it points in my book.  

The convenience of it being keyless signaled I would not have to worry about searching for the key in the numerous pockets of my jacket and pants. 

Jumping onto the bike and switching on the engine, I discovered yet another pleasant surprise – the 6.5-inch TFT screen with BMW Motorrad Connectivity. Fitted as standard, I knew this feature would be handy during this and any other ride.  

The screen is big enough to read comfortably while riding, which is great news for people like me who wear glasses or contact lenses.  Satisfied with my final choice, I left the dealership and spent the next few days familiarizing myself with the features of the F 900 XR.

The day of the Ride finally arrived and to my dismay, it was cold and wet. Fortunately, the mid-range F 900 XR is fitted with “Rain” and “Road” riding modes as standard. I simply selected the appropriate mode to suit the wet tarmac and set off to meet the other women from all across Gauteng who would be attending the ride.

Powered by an 895cc engine, and with a fuel capacity of 15.5 litres, I didn’t have to worry about performance nor fuel efficiency.  The F 900 XR weighs 219kg and at first, this had been a concern for me because I had had a tennis elbow operation on my right hand. 219kg is a hefty amount of metal but instead, the sports adventure bike proved light and easy to manoeuver. 

Powered by an 895cc engine, and with a fuel capacity of 15.5 litres, I didn’t have to worry about performance nor fuel efficiency.

Of all the things I found impressive about the F 900 XR, I was most taken by its upright, yet relaxed riding position.  I could quite easily see myself riding very long distances without fear of discomfort and lower back pain. 

Overall, my time on the F 900 XR was too short – as if any amount of time would suffice – and I would highly recommend it to any lady looking for a motorcycle that isn’t a superbike.  That said, I would want BMW Motorrad to make the Electronic Suspension Adjustment, a standard feature to make it easier for short riders to get on and off it safely and with ease. 

Priced from:  R 217 000 – 00

Thanks to BMW Motorrad Fourways for the bike loan

About Crescentia Ndimande

Crescentia Ndimande, mother of two, has been riding motorbikes since 2006, after being introduced in the biking fraternity by her late brother in law in 1991. Crescentia is part of Cancervive, and co-owns Dynamic Road Safety alongside her husband.  Over the years, Crescentia has ridden a variety of bikes namely the Indian Chieftain, Triumph Rocket, Thunderbird 1700cc, Commander, Tiger 800cc, Harley 1200c, Hayabusa 1300cc, Honda Blackbird 1100cc, VFR 1200cc.

WATCH: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7! There are seven riding modes available on the BMW R 1250 GS & R 1250 GS Adventure

With seven riding modes and the GS’s boundless spirit for adventure, you can master any driving situation with confidence.

Tarmacked roads, wet roads or unpaved gravel roads: The seven riding modes of the R 1250 GS ensure optimum grip and superior handling at all times. When the vehicle is stationary, you can pre-select up to four riding modes individually in the menu, which you can then select quickly and conveniently during the journey using the riding mode button.

The new dynamic engine brake control provides more stability and easy control of the bike in the Pro riding modes; it prevents the rear wheel from slipping or jerking. And in the new standard ECO Mode, you get the maximum range from every tank of fuel.

The BMW R 1250 GS is priced from R322 900.00

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is priced from R343 700.00

WATCH: LED Light Technology on the BMW R 1250 GS & R 1250 GS Adventure

More radiance. More visibility. More prominence.  In short – let there be light! 

The full-LED swivelling headlights and adaptive headlights on the R 1250 GS and GS Adventure guarantee superior illumination to the side, up and down. In this way, the light is with you wherever you ride. 

The LED turn signals with Cruising Light option provide an eye-catching appearance with constantly dimmed lighting at the front. At the rear, the multifunctional LED indicators increase passive safety. Further highlights include the Welcome and Goodbye function as well as the driving lights, which can be activated when the ignition is switched off – very practical when manoeuvring in the dark.

The BMW R 1250 GS is priced from R322 900.00

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is priced from R343 700.00

Pride of Africa Ride 2020 perched upon a BMW R 1250 GS

To mark the end of a difficult 2020, my Editor (and sister), Vuyi Mpofu and I, put on our big girl drawers and set off on our annual Pride Of Africa Ride, aptly themed the “Mbokodo Edition”.

– Bongiwe Didiza, motorcycle journalist, driving in heels

Pride of Africa Ride (POAR) celebrates and highlights various historical, cultural and geographical elements in South Africa while focusing on societal values that embody the meaning of Ubuntu. Unlike the 2019 PAOR, the 2020 ride was an all female team, which served as a good platform to raise awareness for Gender-Based Violence.  

 

Riding out in style on the morning of our long-awaited departure day, Vuyi looked confident on her Racing Red BMW F 900 XR, while I perched upon a Black Storm metallic BMW R 1250 GS. We were ready for the trip ahead and determined to enjoy the adventure to Durban, KZN. Having already taken ownership of the bike a few days before the ride, I was looking forward to playing with the riding modes on my R 1250 GS, which comes standard with two riding modes (Road, Rain), Automatic Stability control, and Hill Start Control.

I was fortunate that the bike was still brand new, leaving it up to me to break in the stallion under my command.

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

I happily discovered that my bike was fitted with the Pro riding mode, an optional extra which features additional riding modes (Dynamic Pro, Enduro/Pro), ABS Pro, Hill Start Control Pro, Dynamic Traction Control, and Dynamic Brake Control. I felt assured about my safety on the 600km journey which lay ahead.

The BMW R 1250 GS’s 1254 cc engine produces a power output of 100kW and a max torque of 143 Nm, which made me want to open the throttle and just get going.

Prior to leaving Johannesburg I had adjusted the bike’s seat height to its lowest position, so as to experience the as the ride from a different angle from what would be my normal. The standard seat height of the 1250 GS can be adjusted between 850mm(low) and 870mm(high).

I was fortunate that the bike was still brand new, which left it up to me to break in the stallion under my command. That said, this meant we had to ride easy for the first 200-250kms so that I could wear the new tyres in. The pace of our gentle ride turned out to be a blessing in disguise as it allowed us to have much more fun than anticipated. We frequently stopped to enjoy the scenery, take pictures and wave at passing truck drivers who tooted their foghorn-like horns at the sight of two women on motorcycles. 

At our last rest and refuel stop, I noted that the bike’s fuel consumption which was at about 4.5l/100km

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

We encountered many forced stops along the way because of road works and the ever changing weather. That said, we were fully prepared, thanks to the rain riding modes on each motorcycle and the protective riding gear we had on. I was kitted in a GS dry suit and GS Pro boots, while Vuyi wore a GS Rallye suit and BMW Venture Grip boots.

At our last rest and refuel stop, I calculated that the bike’s fuel consumption which was averaging 4.5l/100km. It differed to the estimated fuel consumption of 4.75l/100km, which was rather strange. I had expected the consumption rate to be higher or at least much closer to BMW Motorrad’s estimated consumption rate.

Then it me dawned on that the 4.5l/100km was on account of the moderate riding we had done over the first 200kms as well as the rain and road works which had required us to further adjust our riding speed.

After refueling, we headed back onto the main road and continued on our trip. Aware of the fading daylight, thinning traffic and improved weather, we picked up the pace and finally arrived safely our destination. Still in high spirits we settled into our lodgings for the next few days.

As I drifted off to sleep, I reflected on the superior build quality of BMW motorcycles which are well known for long-distance comfort; in this regard, the R 1250 GS had affirmed one of the German manufacture’s long standing brand promises.

One man admitted that we are putting the male gender to shame as most men are too afraid to ride motorbikes

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS
Day 2

We spent our time riding in around Durban, visiting the many tourist attractions offered by the seaside city. This included riding along the Golden Mile – a bustling stretch of beachfront, and well-known holiday destination.

We also visited many other popular destinations, such as the Blue Lagoon, Moses Mabhida Stadium and uShaka Marine World and the beachfront markets which are always filled with a rows and rows of brightly colorful Zulu arts and crafts, some made on the spot by the cheerful and skilled vendors.

At one stall, we successfully negotiated an agreeable price with one of the vendor’s for Vuyi’s traditional Zulu skirt – something she had wanted since the beginning of the trip. She wore it immediately, hopped onto her motorbike and started the engine much to the surprise of the small crowd which had loosely gravitated towards the “Joburg girls on big motorcycles”.

 

We had caused quite a stir from the very start of our trip when leaving Joburg. Motorists and the public in general seemed bemused at the sight of 2 Black women riding unaccompanied. Not that people have never seen women on motorbikes before, but rather, that we were on dual purpose bikes which are not usually associated with our race and gender. Some on lookers gave us disapproving scowls while other greeted us with encouraging curiosity.

That said, we were generally met by more people who enthusiastically shared positives attitudes towards us. They were inspired by what they called our bravery and demonstration of fearlessly going against the customary grain of what is traditionally acceptable behaviour, from African women.

With our Pride Of Africa Ride, Mbokodo Edition nearing the end, we visited BMW Motorrad Umhlanga, where we had our bikes inspected in preparation for a safe trip back home.

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

At one rest stop, a man admitted that we are putting the male gender to shame as most men are too afraid to ride motorbikes. He added that the large majority of men were incredibly intimidated by women who rode motorcycles.

On the opposite end of the spectrum and at a different destination, a woman, accompanied by her husband, gushed about her secret desire to learn how to ride a motorcycle. Judging by the look of alarm on his face, he was hearing this for the first time. Undeterred she asked how we had gotten into the world of motorcycling, before asking how to climb onto a motorbike. As they drove away, Vuyi and I joked about the perceived mood in the car. 

 

On an afternoon when we felt too tired to leave the hotel, we opted to do a basic maintenance chain check (clean and lubbe) on Vuyi’s F 900 XR.

We did not need to check the R1250 GS since it has a drive-shaft. The drive-shaft however does need maintenance even though its maintenance frequency is less than that of a chain. If the drive-shaft is neglected and not maintained well, rust can get to the seals and cause damage to the bearings. 

Though not entirely surprising to me, I found the R 1250 GS suspension much harder in comparison to that of the R 1250 GS Adventure.

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

With our Pride Of Africa Ride, Mbokodo Edition nearing the end, we visited BMW Motorrad Umhlanga, where we had our bikes inspected, in preparation for a safe trip back home.

The inspection included the paramount checks which bikers should never ignore or bypass prior to any ride: tyre pressure, front & rear brake, throttle & clutch response, lights and turn signals, hooter, oil & other fluids, and checking if the engine power cuts when the side stand engages.

While at Umhlanga Motorrad, I decided to adjust the seat height to high for a different experience. The bike felt more comfortable riding with the high seat adjustment so I decided to use that seat level on our journey back home.  

We proudly raised our fists in salute to the man whose sacrifices had made it possible for us as Black women to enjoy the freedoms we now do

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS
 
Journeying back home

Though I was not quite ready to head back home, the day finally came and the return journey back was greeted with an all-seasons type of weather conditions. Although accustomed to inclement weather, which tests both the rider’s skill & endurance and the bike’s handling & comfort capabilities, I always approach such a ride with caution and due respect.

Heading out of the city and onto the N3, our route back home first took us to Howick where we visited the Nelson Mandela capture site. Here we sealed the end of our 2020 Pride Of Africa Ride with raised our fists in salute to the man whose sacrifices had made it possible for us as Black women to enjoy the freedoms we now do.

Unlike superbikes, the GS is more forgiving in curves and bends.

– BONGIWE DIDIZA, MOTORCYCLE JOURNALIST, DRIVING IN HEELS

The remainder of the ride was peppered with intermittent  downpours of rain and crosswinds, but my iron stallion held firmly to the road and I confidently darted between trucks and other slower moving traffic. The power of the 1250 GS never ceases to take my breath away.

As I opened the throttle and weaved my way through the delicious twists of Van Reenan’s Pass, I let loose a scream of delight then immediately heard myself laughing happily inside my helmet; if you are a biker, you’ll understand.

Another impressive thing about the 1250 GS is its leaning ability, which, if one is not accustomed to may feel daunting; but to a more seasoned rider feels as graceful as a professional ice-skater gliding effortless across the rink. Unlike superbikes, the GS is more forgiving in curves and bends. It allows you to adjust minor mistakes a rider may make as they enter the bend, making the 1250 GS a menace to superbikers on track day.

 

Though not entirely surprising to me, I found the 1250 GS suspension much harder in comparison to that of the 1250 GS Adventure. The dynamic pro riding mode made the bike even more responsive; the kick and the punch it produced, made me feel as though I was riding the 1250 GS.

The 1250 GS is in the adventure category, but in my opinion, informed by my 10 years riding experience and due to all the things it encompasses, the 1250 GS truly cannot be contained in just one specific category as it can be whatever you want it to be.

I can honestly say, and without hesitation that if one is looking for a versatile bike then the 1250 GS is the two-wheeler for you. That said, be warned, once you straddle this horse, there will be no coming back as you will most probably get hooked. 

The BMW R1250 GS is priced from: R 322 900.00