Royal Enfield today flagged off the 3rd edition of its Tour of Rann of Kutch (ROK), an epic ride across the geographically unique landscape that was once an arm of the Arabian Sea. This marquee ride is organised by Royal Enfield as part of its tradition of promoting leisure and adventure motorcycling culture across the country.
The Royal Enfield Tour of Rann of Kutch was flagged off by the honourable chief guest DCP (Ahmedabad) Dr Mahesh Nayak on the March 11, 2012, at 08:30 AM, from Acropolis Mall, S.G. Highway, Ahmedabad. Dr Nayak flagged off the tour wishing the riders all the best for on their adventurous trip. With the Royal Enfield Tour of ROK, the cultural capital of Gujarat brings forth its adventurous side. A total of 25 riders lined up for the spectacular flag off and were cheered on by hundreds of Royal Enfield riders and enthusiasts from Ahmedabad who had come there to wish them at the start of their trip.
Speaking on the occasion the Royal Enfield Spokesperson said, “The formidable terrain of Rann of Kutch is quintessentially a gateway to timeless existence. Traversing across the barren landscape on a motorcycle, experiencing the wilderness and golden glow of the Rann and staying at serene countryside resorts; this ride we believe shall definitely be a cherished adventure for its participants. Royal Enfield has been pioneering leisure and adventure motorcycling in India and the Tour of Rann of Kutch is a differentiated property created towards this category. The ride has seen encouraging success since its conception and going forward we will continue to work to enhance the experience further.”
Tour of Rann of Kutch this year explores the rugged beauty of the Rann that encompasses beyond the salt flats, deserts and treacherous landscapes. As the riders enjoy the “trip” on their Royal Enfield bikes, without a soul in kilometres, they will experience more than the legendary thump. The slice of adventure will come alive when the riders stop at the Sardar Post in memory of brave soldiers of the Border Security Force who fought valiantly to repel the invaders in the 1965 war. The treasure trove of history in Gujarat will slowly unfurl itself further while the riders marvel at the wonders of the 4000-year-old Harappan civilization site at Dholavira, where archaeologists are peeling back the ravages of time and man, inch by inch.
Riding into the twilight, the riders will catch the sunset at the Kala Dungar hill overlooking the spectacularly desolate Great Rann of Kutch. Amongst other things on this ride, the participants shall rediscover numerous constellations lost from the view and memory of many in the urban smog. Sightings of an occasional neelgai or wild ass, crossing the path are not going to be uncommon either.
While the main theme is an exhilarating experience, the underlying emphasis is on safety in every aspect of the ride. Royal Enfield provides service and medical back up to provide confidence not just to the first time participants but also to their friends and family. The Tour of Rann of Kutch (ROK) has expert and experienced pilots to guide the group in various areas of bike riding and coping with the weather and terrain.
– Mahavir Kothari
