From Fear to Confidence: Karoo is Calling Adventure Motorcycle Experience
- Motorrad Adventures
- Jan 13
- 5 min read
Updated: 23 hours ago
A "Women of Adventure" feature by Adri Engelbrecht.
Adri Engelbrecht didn’t start adventure motorcycling early in life — and she’s honest about the fear that came with that.
Learning to ride later meant carrying doubts that many women feel but rarely say out loud. The size and weight of the motorcycle. The fear of falling when stopping. The worry of not being able to get back up again. Until recently, her off-road riding had always happened with the reassurance of her husband or her son nearby.
The Karoo Is Calling adventure motorcycle tour marked a shift.
For the first time, Adri committed to riding in an environment where she would need to trust herself — supported by experienced guides, but responsible for her own progress. That decision alone felt intimidating.
Saying "Yes" Despite Fear
What helped Adri say yes wasn’t confidence or bravado. It was trust.
Knowing that the Motorrad Adventures tour team could handle anything — including falls — created a sense of psychological safety. She was reassured that her level of experience was understood and supported, and that falling wasn’t something to be feared or hidden.
That reassurance mattered more than she expected.
The Moment That Changed Everything
There wasn’t one dramatic breakthrough — but one moment stood out.
After stopping, Adri dropped her bike for the first time. A scenario she had feared for years. And then something quietly powerful happened: she realised she was completely fine. No injury. No panic. No judgement.
Just a drop — and the realisation that the fall didn’t mean failing. From that moment, the fear loosened its grip.
Riding Through the Unexpected
What surprised Adri most wasn’t only that she completed the ride — it was how she did it.
Heavy rain and muddy Karoo roads turned the tour into a far more demanding experience than anticipated. At one point, even her riding boots gave up — the soles literally coming loose and being held together with duct tape for the remainder of the journey.
It didn’t stop her. It simply became part of the story.
Where the Pressure Really Came From
Interestingly, Adri never felt rushed or judged by the group or the guides. The only pressure she experienced came from herself.
She was determined to do it “on her own” — and learning to soften that internal demand became part of the journey. Riding in a supportive, non-judgemental environment allowed her to move at her own pace, without comparison or expectation.
A Message for Women Considering Adventure Motorcycle Riding
Looking back, Adri’s reflection is simple — and deeply reassuring.
With the right guidance and support, adventure motorcycling isn’t reserved for the fearless or the highly experienced. It becomes accessible. Learnable. Possible.
Her story isn’t about conquering the Karoo or pushing limits. It's about discovering that confidence grows quietly — through trust, support, and the courage to start before you feel ready.
Why This Story Matters
Adri’s experience reflects what many women share: fear doesn’t disappear before adventure begins. It always fades during the journey — when the environment feels safe enough to try.
That’s what Women of Adventure is about.Real journeys. Real learning. Real confidence, built
one ride at a time...
Women of Adventure is a storytelling series by Motorrad Adventures, highlighting women who explore the world on two wheels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is adventure motorcycle riding only for experienced riders?
No. Adri Engelbrecht’s journey shows that adventure motorcycle riding is not about how long you’ve been riding, but about your willingness to learn. With the right guidance and support, riders of varying experience levels can safely enjoy an adventure motorcycle tour.
Do I need to be physically strong to ride an adventure motorcycle?
Physical strength helps, but it isn’t the deciding factor. Adri discovered that good technique, calm decision-making, and encouragement from experienced guides matter far more than raw strength when riding an adventure motorcycle.
What happens if something goes wrong on an adventure motorcycle tour?
Support is built into guided adventure motorcycle tours. From experienced guides to backup vehicles and route planning, riders are never expected to face challenges alone.
Can women who struggle with self-doubt enjoy adventure motorcycle riding?
Absolutely. Adri’s story proves that self-doubt is often part of the journey. Adventure motorcycle riding can be a powerful way to build confidence, resilience, and trust in your own abilities.
Why is the Karoo such a special destination for adventure motorcycle riding?
The Karoo offers wide-open spaces, quiet gravel roads, and varied terrain that allow riders to progress at their own pace. It’s an ideal environment for confidence-building adventure motorcycle experiences.
What can riders gain from an adventure motorcycle journey beyond riding skills?
Beyond technical skills, adventure motorcycle riding often delivers personal growth. Adri’s experience highlights how these journeys build confidence, independence, and a deep sense of achievement.
Inspired by Adri’s journey?
Adventure motorcycle riding starts with the right guidance, supportive environments, and riding at your own pace.
If you're looking for the ultimate adventure motorcycle tour, you’ve come to the right place! At Motorrad Adventures, we bring years of experience, expert guides, and world-class support to ensure you have an unforgettable off-road motorcycle experience.
Since 2009, we’ve been crafting and leading epic motorcycle expeditions across the globe. Our team has successfully organised tours in Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Namibia, and South Africa, helping countless riders tick off their bucket-list motorcycle adventures.
We’ve also had the privilege of working alongside some of the biggest names in adventure motorcycling, including Charley Boorman, Billy Ward, Claudio von Planta, Dylan Wickrama, SA Adventure, Moto Aventures, and Compass Expeditions.
Your safety is our top priority. Every Motorrad Adventures motorcycle tour includes:
✅ Fully equipped support vehicle & trailer with satellite communication and tracking
✅ Professional lead and sweep riders for guidance and support
✅ On-tour medic for added peace of mind
✅ A dedicated backup crew so you can ride at your own pace
With our experienced team by your side, you can push your limits while knowing you have the best support in the industry.
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We take care of everything—from planning scenic routes to securing top-quality accommodation and delicious meals. That means you get to focus on what matters most—riding and exploring. Whether you're navigating Namibia’s desert dunes, cruising through the rugged landscapes of South Africa, or crossing breathtaking salt flats, we ensure every moment is an adventure to remember.
So, if you’re ready to experience the motorcycle trip of a lifetime, click the button below and start your next great adventure! 👇
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