Riding Offroad: Barbed Wire Awaits as a Hidden Hangman!
Picture this: you're tearing through the rugged terrain, adrenaline pumping, wind whipping past your face. But just as you're lost in the thrill of the ride, disaster strikes in the form of a hidden menace – barbed wire. I had my throat cut by barbed wire. It's a danger lurking in the tunnel vision of off-road trail riding, waiting to ambush unsuspecting riders like you and me. Sounds like something out of a nightmare, right? Believe me, it's all too real, and I have a story that'll make you think twice before veering off the trail.
I've got a story to share that might just make you think twice before hitting those desert and mountain trails without a care in the world. You see, I had a close call that could've ended much worse, and it's all because of something you might not even notice until it's too late: barbed wire.
Location map pins and coordinates share at the end of this blog. Don't forget to check out the videos too.
My close encounter with the barbed wire left me with more than just a few scratches. The sharp barbs dug into my throat, causing lacerations and two deep punctures perilously close to my external carotid artery. As if that wasn't enough, I also endured bruising from a fractured larynx. It's a miracle that I walked away with my life intact from an experience that still feels surreal to this day.
Picture this: I'm cruising through the open countryside, feeling the wind on my face and the thrill of the ride coursing through my veins. But then, out of nowhere, I come face to face with a line of barbed wire strung up between trees and at neck height no less. I didn't see it until it was practically in front of me, and by then, there was no time to swerve or stop.
I tried to duck down at the last second, but it was too late. The wire caught me right in the neck, slicing through my skin like a hot knife through butter. If I hadn't instinctively grabbed onto it, the outcome could've been a lot worse. I shudder to think about it.
But here's the kicker: this isn't an isolated incident. Barbed wire seems to be cropping up in more and more off-road areas, posing a serious threat to riders like myself. It's not just me either – other motorcyclists, cyclists, you name it, they've all encountered the same deadly obstacle.
I've seen it in different locations, and I'm sure there's more out there just waiting to catch someone off guard. That's why I'm speaking up now. I've got pictures, I've got videos, and I've got a message: we need to spread awareness and put an end to this reckless behaviour.
“Off-roading is all fun and games until you find yourself face to face with barbed wire. It's like stumbling upon a surprise party where the only guests are stitches and bandages. So, before you head out and hit the trails, remember: always keep an eye out for the not-so-welcome party crashers.”
To my fellow riders here in the UAE, please be careful out there. Keep your eyes peeled for any signs of danger, and if you come across any barbed wire or other hazards, report it immediately. Send me some clicks and the location where you found it. And to those who think it's okay to string up wire without a second thought, think again. You're not just putting others at risk – you're potentially ruining lives.
Wadi Showka>>>
Malihah>>>
Follow this link for the location pinned on Google Maps for one area I found barbed wired in Showka just off from the Wadi and up a gravel lane.
This next link is the area in the desert up by Umm AL Quwain that almost took my head off.
Let's work together to make our off-road trails safer for everyone. It's time to ride smart and ride safe.
Until next time,
Karl.E
P.S. It's been a few months since my close call with the barbed wire, and I'm happy to report that I've fully recovered from my injuries. However, just when I thought the coast was clear, I stumbled upon another dangerous booby trap recently. The offroad trails can be full of surprises, so please keep your eyes peeled and stay vigilant out there. Also, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who sent kind messages during my recovery – your support means the world to me. Ride safe, everyone!
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