Surviving an Adventure Motorcycle Crash in the Karoo: Why Every Adventure Bike Rider Needs Backup...

Simon Todd
Jun 4
7 min read

Updated: Jun 30

"Maybe I Should Have Stopped: An Adventure Motorcycling Journey"

My Journey Begins: The Road Less Traveled

I have had a motorcycle since my teenage years. Initially, I rode for pleasure. I never really got into extreme off-road biking, like enduro or motocross. However, I did take long trips around the country on an old 197cc Villiers while in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Unfortunately, the Rhodesian Bush War made such travel unsafe, pushing me to reassess my adventures.

After relocating to South Africa, I bought a Yamaha RD 400, a bike I cherished for many years. Eventually, my son upgraded to a BMW 800 GS, and I ended up purchasing his previous bike, the BMW F 650 GS. Interestingly, he managed to profit from each of these transactions, which shows just how valuable these bikes can be.

A Shared Passion: Adventure with My Son

My son and I shared a passion for riding. We embarked on several adventure bike tours to Baviaanskloof. This was my first real encounter with adventure biking, and I absolutely loved it.

One notable experience was when I was invited to join a friend on a motorcycle trip. An American rider suffered a broken leg and required hospitalization. His medical insurance covered a paramedic who escorted him back to the US in business class. This incident underscored the importance of having thorough medical insurance for such trips.

Gearing Up: Adventure Riding Courses

Having tasted the thrill of adventure motorcycling, I wanted to improve my off-road skills. So, I enrolled in a couple of BMW adventure riding courses. These courses were fantastic, equipping me with skills and confidence to ride at my own limits. I was completely hooked!

Excited by my newfound passion, I seized the opportunity when my son’s friend sold his 2006 BMW 1200 GS. I intended this bike for long-distance trips, while my trusty 800 GS would serve as my daily rider. I soon found Tim Skelton and his company, Motorrad Adventures, online.

Why Choose Motorrad Adventures?

Motorrad Adventures stood out to me due to their extensive experience leading overland motorcycle tours in South Africa. Their trips are well-organized, offering support, sweep riders, a medic, and a backup vehicle equipped with an off-road trailer. I loved that I didn’t have to carry my gear; the support vehicle handled all the luggage, allowing me to relish the ride. The vehicle also came equipped with essential tools, a compressor, and even a fridge filled with cold water.

Comfortable accommodation is now a must for me. In my younger days, I once did a 7-month overlanding trip from Cape Town to London, primarily camping with five others. After that, I have come to appreciate the comforts of a good bed after a long day of riding.

The “Karoo is Calling” Tour

In February last year, I joined the Motorrad Adventures team for their 5-night “Karoo is Calling” tour. This tour featured both tar and gravel roads, taking us from T’Zamenkomst near Gariep Dam down to Nieu Bethesda, Graaff Reinet, Victoria West, and back to T’Zamenkomst.

The experience was fantastic! Everything was well-organized, with amazing accommodation and delicious food—all for a very reasonable price. The only thing Tim couldn’t control was the weather: we faced over 40 degrees Celsius heat in Nieu Bethesda, a real challenge while suited up in full riding gear and a pair of ill-fitting boots.

Planning the Next Adventure

Eager for more, I considered the "High Mountains" tour through the breathtaking Eastern Cape's mountain passes. This included famous routes like Rhodes and Tiffendel. However, I hesitated, worried my skills wouldn’t match the challenge.

When Tim announced the "Karoo Wanderlust Tour", promising seven nights exploring the Karoo and Garden Route, I couldn’t wait. I signed up immediately and eagerly anticipated the journey.

The Unexpected Challenges

On the day I planned to ride to Graaff Reinet, I left work early, packed my 1200 GS, and hit the road in the baking afternoon heat. The thermometer quickly climbed to 40 degrees Celsius. Just as I neared the small town of Jansenville, my bike unexpectedly stopped.

After consulting with locals and my BMW specialist, Guy, we determined that the fuel pump controller was at fault. Fortunately, Tim arrived in Graaff Reinet and drove 80km to pick me up in the tour support vehicle and trailer. This allowed me to join the group for the welcome dinner.

Rider on BMW GS adventure motorcycle on gravel road in the Karoo

That evening, Guy provided instructions for a temporary fix. Tim found a soldering iron to attempt a repair, but it didn’t work. The next day, which was a public holiday in South Africa and the first day of the tour, Tim put me to work looking for some cable. After breakfast, we managed to bypass the fuel pump controller. Now, I just needed to secure the wires for my journey back home.

While the group left for day one of the tour, I spent the morning at a local bike repair shop (thanks, Dennis of Greeezmonkey!) securing my temporary fix, which ultimately allowed me to ride home safely.

Determination to Join the Group

Determined not to miss out, I obtained a new set of off-road tires fitted to my BMW 800 GS and rode to Knysna to reunite with the group that afternoon.

Adventure rider receiving first aid after an off-road crash

The following day, we tackled back roads to Wilderness and George before ascending the Outeniqua Pass. On the Karoo side of the pass, we transitioned to a well-maintained gravel road. I found myself lagging a bit behind the group. When I entered a corner too quickly, I fixated on an approaching sisal plant.

Despite my BMW motorcycle training, which taught me to look where I want to go, I focused on the plant. I swerved last minute, narrowly avoiding it—but I hit either a boulder or an embankment instead.

The Crash: My Reality Check

My next memory was lying on the ground, in intense pain. Fellow riders and the support vehicle reached me quickly. Tim, being a trained medic, took charge of my care while the support crew ensured the scene was safe. After assessing my condition, Tim carefully removed my helmet and neck brace. I was mainly worried about heatstroke due to the black riding gear I was wearing under the scorching sun. Thankfully, the support crew extended the Ostrich Wing awning off the support vehicle for shade while they performed a complicated maneuver to remove my riding jacket.

Off-road motorcycle boots and protective riding jacket

I was then transported to George MediClinic Hospital under Tim's constant supervision. Once I was admitted to the Emergency Ward, Tim unloaded my bike from the hospital parking lot and rejoined the tour.

In the end, my injuries included four broken ribs, a collapsed lung, and a broken ankle. The bike remained relatively undamaged but required two nights in ICU and two more in the general ward. I still wonder how I managed to break my ankle through sturdy Leatt 5.5 boots that didn't show a single scratch.

Learning Points from My Journey

Solo rides have risks: Consider the ramifications of riding alone. A minor mishap can escalate into a severe problem if you're alone. Think of how you'd manage if injured and unable to lift your bike.
Invest in gear: Quality protective gear is essential. My injuries could have been far worse without it; my jacket and trousers protected me significantly, and my neck brace was a lifesaver. (Check out Motorrad Adventures’ blog on riding gear here)
Backup assistance is crucial: A support vehicle provides comfort—carrying gear, water, and snacks. A trailer is invaluable for removing you and your bike from troublesome situations.
Good communication matters: In emergencies, a reliable communication system is vital for organizing rescues, particularly in areas with no mobile reception.
Medical helpers are invaluable: Having someone in the group with medical training can be a game-changer. We can fix bikes, but human bodies are more complex!
Know your nearest hospitals: Comfort comes from knowing you can get to a good hospital. I was fortunate to end up at George Medi Clinic—they were outstanding.
Plan for help after a crash: After hospitalization, having friends or a partner to assist is crucial. My incredibly supportive wife rented a trailer and drove 800km to pick me up, managing everything for me during that first week.
Prioritize comprehensive medical aid: If you must choose, prioritize quality medical coverage over fancy motorcycle insurance. My bike repair cost was minimal compared to my enormous medical expenses.
Stay vigilant and drive safely: Avoid reckless decisions that could sideline you from the adventure. It’s tough watching your group enjoy the tour while you’re stuck due to a mishap like mine!

10. Be Kind to Yourself: Recovering takes time. Surround yourself with support during this period, and remember that everyone makes mistakes.

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.

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.