Bikers roar into Soweto

Soweto is world famous for its rich history and culture. Tourists from all over the country and the world visit this vibrant township to experience, feel and touch a part of our history.

So, when I received an invitation to attend the first annual "day jol" from Jo'burg-based motorcycle riding club, the Blaque Diamonds, I just couldn't turn it down.

The event was held at one of the most famous landmarks in Soweto, the Power Park cooling towers, more commonly known as the Orlando towers.

These can be spotted from as far as the Johannesburg CBD, primarily because of the colourful branding.

The venue provided the perfect setting for an event of this nature being easily accessible no matter where you are coming from.

It is also the home of Soweto Outdoor Adventures.

Among other initiatives of the Blaque Diamonds is a partnership with the Imperial I-Pledge to raise awareness of bikers on South African roads.

As bikers we enjoy riding our machines on the open road, but there is always a nagging feeling, every time we leave home, that this could be the last time, or that something bad could happen.

This shouldn't be the case. We as bikers also need to commit to becoming safer, more responsible riders. Honda had an array of bikes on display at the event, though the one that stood out was the Honda VT1300CX, which was a big hit.

The design of the VT1300CX Honda strikes a delicate balance between the extended chopper look, with its stretched wheelbase and exaggerated steering rake, and the rideability expected from a Honda.

The engine also features a new programmable EFI system, as well as a new dual exhaust system that produces a distinctive chopper sound and performance, while retaining fuel economy.

Fairly priced at R139000, with a finance option from Honda, it's a steal.

The VT1300CX had wannabe bikers, and everyone else, admiring its sheer beauty.

Honda's brand ambassador "Sepei (Mashugane) The Biker Queen" also supported the event and was part of the mass ride with a difference, which took place on the old Potchefstroom road and included all kinds of two-wheelers - from scooters and delivery bikes to superbikes, cruisers and touring or adventure bikes.

It was led by two breathtakingly beautiful white Lamborghinis and followed by a large number of loud colourful bikes as they went to Maponya Mall, where the Blaque Diamonds MCC and Honda, along with Imperial and Nandos, handed over three handsome cheques to a local Soweto orphanage.

Everyone was welcome here. Soweto has never experienced bikes on this level and, even though we couldn't bungee jump there were still quad bike tours through Soweto and paintball shooting provided by Soweto Outdoor Adventures. There was also music, food, an exhibition from Full Throttle and competitions for everyone to enjoy.

This weekend I will be going full throttle to Pretoria and Ga-Rankuwa for the Emperors Day Jol at Ubuntu Inn.