Atlantis Dunes

The dunes at Atlantis provide an expansive and varied playground for sand riders. Of particular value, the area provides sections that are sufficiently mild for those relatively new to sand riding and sections that are adequately challenging for the experienced sand rider.

Doug organised a ride with the hope that there would be enough interest in an outing to the Atlantis dunes to bring together both skilled and not-so-skilled sand riders, with the former providing example, insight and support and the latter being given the opportunity to enjoy a new experience.

Permits are required to access the dunes and if you make use of the area, I would encourage you to only enter with valid permits as this access is a real privaledge - and risking it is shortsighted.  I have heard via the grapevine that for a long time now, there may be pressure from nature conservation to close off this facility for motorised use.  I hope that if we all continue to supprt the current permit system, hopefully the income derived by the city will help to keep the facility open

Single-entry permits for motorcycles cost R70.00. Those who trailer their bikes to the venue can leave their vehicle and trailer in the parking area provided at the entrance. Single-entry permits for 4x4 vehicles that are taken into the dunes cost R120.00. Annual permits cost R750.00, if for a full year. The permits expire on 30 June of each year, so pro rata rates are applicable. Annual permits will only be issued on presentation of an Identity Document and are bike and person specific - the person's full name, ID number and bike registration are printed on the disc.

Notes to remember:

• The most direct route into the dunes is via Gate 1. It is nevertheless somewhat testing for those less-skilled in sand riding
• Wear proper riding gear (off-road boots are essential; a neck brace is strongly recommended)
• Bring adequate water (hydration pack or alternative source - at least 2 litres)
• For those sensitive to the sun, bring a hat to use during breaks
• Drop-off's are nasty things that creep up on you unexpected, so if you are unsure of the terrain, rather familiarise yourself first by doing a few loops before exploring too wildly

We all met at Total garage off the R27 (West Coast Road) near Melkbosstrand.

1. Me (Honda XR650R)

2. Doug (Kawasaki KLR650)

3. Steve (Honda XRV 750 Africa Twin)

4. Donovan (Triumph 800XC)

5. Bob (KTM 990 Adventure)

6. Brett (Yamaha WR450)

7. JP (KTM 990 Adventure)

8. Andrew (KTM 950 Adventure - modified)

Brett was a bit wild in his 4x4 coming into the dunes, and his bike decided that the sand next to the trailer was a safer spot, and bounced off! The WR crashes well, and there was not much damage other than a few scratches on the headlight cowl.

Donovan has only had his bike for about 3 months, and handled the sand very well for a novice!

Andrew (on the bike) giving Donovan some sand riding tips

The world is my playground

My noble steed

Doug's point of view is: "If you're not falling in the sand, you're not pushing yourself hard enough"

Donovan had a disagreement with the sand - his first one of a few.

Getting tired

Brett

Me

JP styling on his 990

Andrew making short work of one of the many challenging dunes

Doug loving the time in the saddle

Bob

Steve

Brett's 4x4 is kitted out with a gas fridge and gas braai, so he provided some boerewors rolls, and beer.

Steve about to attack his boerrie roll

This was my first time at Atlantis, and I thoroughly enjoyed the dunes. The contours are not easy to read - especially at speed, and in bright sunlight. I had a number of close calls. Two of them got the better of me, and I went down. Well, up first, and then down. :-) Went over the bars and landed on my left shoulder (both times). It's very eina - not bruised though. I think I'll save the 800 or 1000 bucks for x-rays, and just rest it.