Metzeler Karoo Extreme

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the Horowhenua Motorcycle Club’s Sand Country Run event, and I can confidently say it was one of the most enjoyable rides I’ve had on a dirt bike in years. It was one of those perfect days when you can’t help but come away grinning from ear to ear, still buzzing from the ride. There’s something magical about those rare rides where all the elements come together just right, creating an experience that’s not just good but unforgettable.

So, what made this ride so special? Well, it’s hard to pinpoint just one thing because so many factors contributed. Every now and then, you get the best weather, perfect terrain, a bike that’s dialed in, and tires that suit the conditions to a T. For the Sand Country Run, all those factors lined up like the stars, and it made for a truly memorable day out on the trails.

For this ride, I had the Metzeler Karoo Extreme mounted on the rear of my Beta RR 430. The Karoo Extreme is a versatile tire that handles various terrains well, but on this ride, it felt perfectly suited for the sandy, loose conditions. The event took place around Lewis Farm, a rural spot about an hour north of Wellington, just off the western side of SH1 near Levin. It’s an area known for its coastal sands and sweeping landscapes, providing the kind of terrain that is both challenging and incredibly rewarding for a dirt bike rider.

As I rolled up to the event, the atmosphere was buzzing with energy. There’s something unique about these classic New Zealand trail events—they’re organized with a grassroots spirit, and this one was no exception. With a modest entry fee of about $40 (including a BBQ lunch!), it’s not just an affordable day out but also supports the local community, which is increasingly rare in the world of organized rides. Trail events like these are becoming fewer and farther between, so it’s refreshing to see a well-organized, rider-friendly event that keeps the spirit of off-road riding alive.

Once the ride started, I knew I was in for a treat. The trails were mostly wide open, allowing for faster speeds, with the occasional tight, winding section to keep things interesting. The layout was both well-planned and varied, with stretches that let you open the throttle and get some speed, and tighter areas that required more focus and technical skill. One of the highlights was the rolling hills. They offered a bit of everything: open terrain that allowed for high-speed ascents and sandy, more technical sections that required careful handling and balance.

Beneath the surface lay the soft sand that gives the event its name, adding a layer of unpredictability and excitement. The sand here was tricky—just enough to keep you on your toes. It wasn’t the kind of thick, sticky mud you might find elsewhere; rather, it was a loose, powdery sand that shifted under the tires and kept you adjusting your balance and throttle control. This is where the Karoo Extreme really came into its own. The tire has a distinctive design, almost like a sand tire, with large knobs arranged in straight lines and deep valleys between them. This design gave me a surprising amount of traction, especially on the softer, sandy stretches. There were several moments where I approached a hill climb, wondering if I’d make it up without spinning out, but the Beta 430cc engine paired with the Karoo Extreme kept surprising me. A quick twist of the throttle, and the bike dug in, clawing its way up even the steeper sections with ease.

The Beta RR 430 was an absolute blast to ride. That 430cc engine delivers a smooth but powerful response that’s perfect for open trails but still manageable on tighter sections. Combined with the Karoo Extreme’s grip, I felt like I had the perfect setup for this kind of terrain. The bike's handling was spot on, and it inspired a lot of confidence, especially on some of the faster stretches where stability can be a challenge. I think the Beta, with its engine power and responsiveness, paired perfectly with the Metzeler Karoo Extreme for a day like this—definitely a combination I’d recommend to anyone tackling similar conditions.

Though the Karoo Extreme looks like a specialized sand tire, it’s proven its versatility. Living around the Wellington region, I’ve had a lot of chances to test this tire on various terrains—everything from rocky trails to patches of slick clay and even through pine forests with loose topsoil. Even in rocky or uneven conditions, the Karoo Extreme has consistently impressed me with its forward traction. It’s one of those tires that, despite its sandy appearance, offers enough versatility to handle a mix of terrain, which is a huge benefit if you like switching up your riding environment.

The Sand Country Run itself felt like a journey back to the roots of trail riding, to a time when these kinds of events were more common in New Zealand. There was an incredible mix of riders, from seasoned veterans to newer riders just starting out. Events like this give everyone a chance to come together, enjoy the sport, and support the local community. It was clear that a lot of effort had gone into organizing it, and I hope it becomes a recurring fixture on the New Zealand trail riding calendar. These events are the heart and soul of trail riding, and for $40—including a BBQ lunch—it’s hard to find better value or a more welcoming atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experience. Events like the Sand Country Run remind you why you fell in love with dirt biking in the first place. The thrill of the ride, the challenge of the terrain, and the camaraderie with other riders all come together to create a unique and memorable day out. Given how much fun I had this year and the number of riders in attendance, I’ve got my fingers crossed that we’ll see this event return for the 2025 riding season. Until then, I’ll be reliving this ride in my mind—and waiting eagerly for the next opportunity to tackle those sandy hills again.

4o