She’s been mad for bikes for as long as she can remember but her paramedic parents are less keen. This hasn’t stopped her attending track days on her YZF-R3.
But riding off-road is a whole new experience for Karina. Not one to shy away from a challenge, she signed up for RideADV’s latest Women Only Adventure Ride on 22-23 Feb where the newcomer was made fully welcome.
Yamaha legend and top off-road coach Stephen Gall was on hand to offer tips and advice on the two-day ride around the Watagans and Yengo state forests of NSW. Experienced adventure rider Amy Harburg – a veteran of APC rallies and epic trips to Mongolia and South Africa – also offered valuable coaching tips and encouragement.
With the pressure off, Karina’s skills improved rapidly and her confidence in the WR250R grew over the weekend. “Such a great bunch of people and what a fantastic bike to start out on,” says Karina. “I had a couple of days to get used to the dirt beforehand because I didn’t want to totally embarrass myself… and I could feel my speed and confidence rising as the ride progresses and listening to Stephen Gall was super valuable,” continues Sydney resident Karina. “I’ve still got a lot to learn but now I’m hooked and looking forward to the next adventure!” she adds.
Meanwhile Amy Harburg piloted Yamaha’s new Tenere 700 for the first time – a demo unit that YMA offered to all attendees fitted with lowered suspension and a low seat to appeal to shorter riders. Amy was super impressed with the new ADV twin and dubbed her weekend: “the best fun I’ve had on a bike for a long time.”
“The Women Only Adventure Rides are a great stress-free weekend for us at RideADV,” says RideADV Trail Boss Greg Yager. “Because unlike blokes they listen to the briefings, they don’t ride over their limits and they don’t overcook corners and spear off into the bush at regular intervals. There are no egos on show – women just get the job done with no fuss,” adds Yager.
18 women rode 350kms over two days with an overnight stop in Singleton… and all are looking forward to the next WOAR which is on 24 to 26 July 2020, check out Ride ADV’s site out for details: https://www.rideadv.com.au/event/the-2nd-australian-womens-adventure-ride-weekend-for-2020-gloucester-nsw/
