It was a test of man and machine when Dave Willis and Rob Walters joined Suffolk Trail Riders for a green lane challenge.
The annual Iceni charity weekender ride covered around 120 miles, about two-thirds off road, up the west side of Norfolk.
Setting off from Larling, near the Snetterton race circuit where more than 90 people camped, Rob and Dave joined one of the groups that wended their way to Swaffham, through the royal estate at Sandringham and on to the coastal resort of Hunstanton where they could catch some of King Charles III’s coronation on a big screen on the green overlooking the sea.
The adventurous Orwell duo were riding KTM 250 EXC TPI two-stroke enduro motorbikes which Dave admits flattered his off-road riding skills.
“I was a little bit apprehensive about going because I am not an off-road genius.”
He even had to buy protective off-road boots and body armour.
“It was a bit of a case of ‘all the gear and no idea’.
“There were a range of motorbikes, including adventure bikes, and skills.”
Dave was impressed by how easily the KTMs coped with the terrain, especially after heavy rain.
“It was lovely and sunny but not too dusty. On the way back we caught a massive rain storm which showed how good the KTMs are off-road. A lot of riders were struggling in the mud.
“Riding 120 miles, much of it off road, was hard work. My arms were aching at the end of it but I’m not used to it.
“It was fantastic and the big difference was the bike,” said Dave.
“I was impressed with the way the KTMs handled it and that’s not just a sales pitch.
“With the KTMs you can just jump out of deep ruts and power through sand. The KTMs made it a lot easier, flattering my talents, and did most of the work for me.
“I’ve not become an off-road riding genius but, with the right kit and the right bike, you can get the job done.
“I was amazed how many great tracks there are to ride on. The Suffolk Trail Riders guys are very responsible when you come across people and dog-walkers.
“It was brilliant. I really enjoyed it and came home with a huge smile on my face,” he added.
The riders had a fun weekend and also raised £2,000 for Headway Suffolk, a charity supporting and caring for people with head injuries, £2,000 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and more than £600 for East Anglian Air Ambulance.
Check out the KTM off-road range at orwell.co.uk/ktm/new-ktm-motorcycle-range
