Growing the North Coast enduro biking community

Enduro biking can be a difficult sport to get into, even more so when you do not know other riders or where the good tracks are.

A local group of enthusiasts, the Glendale Riders, are trying to make the sport more accessible and help new riders to learn in a safe environment.

The riders are not a club and do not charge membership fees or have committee structures and extra rules.

“We are just a group who like to ride and encourage others to do the same. We have around 190 people, from Mt Edgecombe to KwaDukuza, on our WhatsApp chat,” said member, Lee Ramsden, known in the community as Mr Dog.

Ramsden is one of the administrators on the group and is also among the more experienced riders, often taking newer bikers for their first day out in Glendale.

Originally from Durban, Ramsden has had a lifelong affinity with motorsport, but only started enduro riding in 2016 after moving to Ballito in 2012.

“I had that same issue as all new riders where I had the bike and wanted to learn, but had no idea where to go,” he said.

New riders are often referred to ‘The Pit’, a small open area off the P228 in Sheffield, but it quickly loses its appeal.

Some bikers will travel to Hilton where a large community exists, or risk the wrath of farmers by riding on sugar cane fields, but a more sustainable solution had to be found.

“I joined my friend on a trip to Glendale, around 40km inland of Ballito, which was then used by a small group of regular riders. Over the years, the growing biking community has built up a relationship with the locals who allow us to use the area.”

The land in Glendale is owned by the Ingonyama Trust and is administrated by local amakhosi and community leaders.

Members of the Glendale Riders host regular fundraisers and outreach drives to respond to community needs, helping to build up a strong relationship in recent years.

This allows the group use of a large area of enduro tracks which cater to everyone from newbie riders to those who are training for the Roof of Africa.

“There are so many tracks to explore that it is endlessly interesting to ride there. It also means it is crucial to ride in groups, because one can easily get lost.”

To prevent danger, Ramsden often runs group rides for the Glendale first timers called ‘Dads and Lads’.

“If there are enough people wanting to learn, then we will put a group together. It’s called dads and lads, but mothers, daughters and less experienced adults are all welcome to join and learn the routes.”

All of the tracks mushroom out from an old farmhouse, colloquially known as Bob’s, which ensures cars and valuables remain safe when you are out riding.

To join the group to see for yourself, you can WhatsApp Ramsden at 084 555 0999. He asks that you WhatsApp rather than phone.

All riders are welcome, but PW bikes are not, given their tyres are too small for the terrain. Proper gear, including a racing suit, boots and helmet must be worn or you will not be allowed on the tracks.

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