DAY THREE
The long way back to Fairlie - well, it seems
that way when you start the day. The ride
was short to Lawrence for a quick breakfast
and a fill-up before heading into a 280km
section on one tank of fuel. Unfortunately
it’s out of the question to make that on one
tank on the Africa Twin, so a little extra on
the back of the bike was needed.
A favourite section was coming up, which
I am sure must be the world’s longest
gravel straight, complete with the biggest
rolling jumps you have ever seen. Reaching
optimum speed on these results in a feeling
of weightlessness for some time. I’d happily
turn around and ride it again just for that!
After lunch was the section that doesn’t rate
highly for me… 25 river crossings and wet
feet for the rest of the day. After a long day
in the saddle it was great to see the Fairlie
sign and the end of the Dusty.
I’ve done the Dusty Butt for five years.
Every time it has been different and an
adventure like no other. You’ll find friends,
bikes, scenery and a challenge… just what
the doctor ordered to clear the head and
burn some calories. If you haven’t done it,
you should. If you don’t know about it, look
it up and get sorted. This doesn’t even cover
the epic trip home, which made the total trip
4500km door to door.
KIWI RIDER 99