03h45, Big Red is saddled up and ready to rock the South African streets! We departed bang on 04h00, lapping up the fresh air and lonely streets as we ride out through the suburbs and on to the M5 motorway.
We hit the national road within minutes, bearing north, the sun rising gently on the horizon.
Stop 1, Laingsburg, Western Cape. Breakfast time. 3 hours on the road already, 280km's covered. The time/ distance ratio would've been better had it not been for those pesky stop/ go's, but that's progress. The ride so far has been lovely - clear roads, fresh air, slightly overcast and a little chilly. Big Red is on form and loving this climate, sucking the air in and keeping cool. The Hex River Valley was gorgeous as always, the mountains laying down like a group of large Plecostomus (Google it!) feeding along the river bed, whilst the sun battles the clouds for 1st place on earth. Breakfast was fair, certainly not great. But when you're on a tight budget, you can't expect English high tea, especially if Steers is your only option!
Stop 3, Richmond, NC: This little dorpie saved me last time, and it's done it again, arriving just as I hit the 34km mark on reserve! Not the most appealing place, but it has it's charms. 690km's of 1700 done, let's see how far we can get...
Stop 4, Colesberg, Northern Cape: I think this place hides its beauty, because I can see some interesting buildings tucked away behind the rocky terrain. Travelling on the highway means that you often miss the real gems. I learned that the first time round. I was exceptionally negative about the landscape last time, but having scooted off the beaten track regularly, I know now not to be so judgmental.
The heat is tough, and it doesn't help that the road has been horribly straight and boring. Riding with the visor down is a big no-no, as the heat can't evaporate fast enough. So, you ride with the visor up. Result? Wind burn. Dry dusty wind lapping at your face, is tantamount to popping your head in a pre-heated oven. Toasty.
The local councils must be trying to boost their Christmas bonuses, as the little piggies are doing their best to trap speeding travellers from their obvious hiding places. With such an arid landscape, it's easy to spot them from way off. I do so enjoy chuckling at them as I pass. I've pulled in to the Shell Ultra City just north of Colesberg, for a spot of lunch, a frozen drink and a face rinse. 835km's in the bag, 709 to go.
Stop 5, Springfont Free State: VRYSTAAT!!! The Orange River welcomed me in to this province, looking lush and flowing beautifully. Last time I came through here it was drab and the landscape was arid, dry and orange. Now, it's glowing, with many shades of greens and browns, water and wildlife. It's beautiful! 923km's done, 622 to go.
So the day ends much like it started, with a shot of Big Red, the hero of the day! 20 hours on the road, departing at 4am and arriving at midnight. Not a single spell of moaning or whining, Big Red just got on with the job at hand, delivering me safely to my destination.
I sorely missed The Goose on this one, but given the excessive 40 degree temperatures today, perhaps she was better off.
Today was the first time I witnessed the tripmeter roll right up to 999.9 and clock over to zero, all in a single day. Total mileage? 1545.7km's. I arrived to a super delicious meal and a quick catch-up, so now it's time to crash...!
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