Dawn Park rider promotes safe and legal riding

For Nhlanhla Mkhabela, riding a motorcycle is not just a hobby; it’s a way of life.

“I started riding in 2013. And every ride, every single day, I learn something new.”

It’s a lesson that keeps him grounded. According to Mkhabela, the moment a rider becomes overconfident is the moment mistakes happen.
“When you have full confidence in yourself, that’s when you start making silly mistakes. You must always respect the bike and the road.”

More than just a trend
The Dawn Park resident said motorbiking has become increasingly popular across the East Rand. From weekend social rides to long-distance trips, more people are embracing the freedom that comes with two wheels. But while social media may glamorise the lifestyle, roaring engines, sleek helmets, matching jackets, experienced riders like Mkhabela stress that safety is not a fashion statement. It’s a necessity.
“Riding is fun. It’s stress relief. Once you put on that helmet, you forget about your problems and life in general. It gives you peace.”

The do’s of riding
Mkhabela is clear about the basics:
• Always wear a helmet, no excuses.
• Wear a proper riding jacket and gloves.
• Be visible. He prefers wearing a reflector to make sure other motorists can see him.
• Choose the right pants. Riding jeans are comfortable, especially for long hours on the road.
• Invest in riding boots. “Riding boots are a must. Be safe,” he emphasised.
• For rainy weather, leather trousers offer better protection. Comfort matters too; riders can sit for hours during long trips, and the right gear makes all the difference.

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The don’ts
There are also things he strongly advises against:
“Some people ride with tekkies. I do not recommend it. An accident can happen at any time.
“Another growing concern is licensing. Some riders complete their learner’s licence but never follow through with a full driver’s licence. Doing a licence is not tricky.”

He highlighted the importance of being as legal as possible.
“Have a number plate and licence disc on your bike. Make sure it is roadworthy.”
The biker pointed out that one challenge in the East Rand is the shortage of riding schools.
“We had one, but it does not exist anymore. We normally refer new riders to other places.”

Breaking the ‘bad boy’ myth
Perhaps one of the biggest misconceptions about bikers is the image often portrayed in movies, leather-clad rebels causing trouble.
“That’s not who we are. People think biking is for bad boys. We are family people, churchgoers, businesspeople, employed doctors and lawyers. We are not as rough as people think we are. We are humans as well.”

For him, biking runs in the blood. His father was a biker. His late brother was a biker. Now his son has shown interest, too. It’s a legacy built on passion, discipline and community.
Mkhabela is part of the Escourt Bikers in Boksburg, a group that is about more than just weekend rides. They also show up for funerals, weddings and matric dances, riding in unity to support families and celebrate important milestones in the community.

A message to motorists
Mkhabela also has a plea for other road users.
“Motorists should kindly please be more vigilant. If there is space in the middle and you see a biker, please don’t block us. Please give us space.”

He referred to lane sharing, when motorcycles move between lanes in slow-moving traffic. While bikers do not claim a special right of way, space and awareness from drivers can save lives.
“At its heart, biking is about freedom, but freedom with responsibility. Biking is enjoyable; it just brings you peace. And for those who truly understand the road, that peace comes not from speed or noise, but from discipline, respect and the brotherhood that rides alongside you.”

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