Harley Davidson Motorcycles are synonymous with the American Dream. A road trip on a Harley is an experience that I can HIGHLY recommend! This would be my first time on a Harley. Since the Rand-Dollar exchange is not in my favour, I had to settle for the shorter version. 24 hour rental, unlimited miles! If you know me, you will know that I want to get as much out of that as possible :)
Eugene came along which I was very happy about and he suggested a trip along the coast to “Michelle” Pfeiffer national park (its not really called that, but after Eugene started calling it that I can’t remember the correct name). On the way back we could go to a braai at a friend’s place just south of San Jose (where I hired the Harley) and spend the night. Jules joined us for this. Get up early the next morning to take the Harley back.
Ready to hit the road! 96 cu.in = 1573cc! I never knew why the back of the seat had an upwards curve at the back…it so you don’t slip off the back when you accelerate :)
Before we really got going, Eugene took me to his and Conrad’s favourite butcher. A couple a years ago Conrad was looking for real South African Boerewors, but couldn’t find. So this butcher was roped in to make proper Boerewors. Now he can’t keep up with the orders :)
A short while into our trip, we saw a war veteran get-together. This is where I realised the difference between the USA and South African Harley culture. In the USA many war veterans ride Harleys, as well as normal folk from various walks of life (and economic backgrounds). More of a brotherhood. In South Africa it is an exclusive culture for people that can afford the bikes (which is a much smaller group of people, usually consisting of upper middleclass. That’s VERY upper middleclass).
The way there: Eugene doing some off-roading – The view of the cliffs. Like this most of the way. Exceptional! – Another photo opportunity
The way back: In “Michelle” Pfeiffer national park. – What a coastline – The biker duo
After dropping the Harley off, we went for breakfast at Conrad & Jackie’s. Yep, you guessed it….braai – The “Tong Master”.
The “breakfast braai” turned into another braai at Eugene & Jules’. Don’t think I’ve braaied this much in a weekend (keep in mind that we had Potjie the night before). – The Master Chef
2 comments:
This is one of a kind experience, isn't it? I remembered the time when my grandfather used to fetch me from school using his old Harley. Even if it was old, the driving experience was still smooth and you could really feel that it was in its best condition ever. I love those days. I wish my grandfather can fetch me at home and drive me on the way to my office. :D But I guess, that's not possible now, as we live at the other side of the coast already. :)
Clare Westby seems a little odd. Anyway, nothing beats the thrill of the open road on a Harley, no matter what kind of Harley.
- Erik Lucien -
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