The fourth section marks a return to two lanes and a sand and gravel surface. The bike corners well and seems remarkably solid, as engine kicks out the rear end very easily. But I don’t push it too hard, as I’ve now returned to civilization. The trail runs along a residential area, and I’m not looking to make any new enemies.

The well though out riding position, with an efficient wind screen, and an easy-to-read dash. We also appreciated the plethora of user-friendly buttons and toglles on the grips. (Photo: BMW)

At the end of the road, I switched the suspension to “Hard Trail” and kept the damping at “Hard.” Several Bimmer men confessed to me that they don’t use the ABS on dirt because the system prevents the rear wheel from locking up or even braking when going downhill, and since you cannot really use the front brake, the bike actually accelerates. A bit farther down the paved road, I started climbing towards the Lac à la Loutre to see if they were right. I apparently missed the turnoff towards the lake and wound up in a logging camp, face to face with a truck blocking the road. Turning back, I noticed that the “Hard Trail” preload setting raises the bike measurably, and that my modest 5’6’’ frame and 30-inch inseam didn’t allow me to put a foot firmly to the ground to properly manoeuvre the beast, which is rather hefty when at a standstill.

And yes, the ABS does prevent rear wheel lock up, and the bike does gain speed, but since the ABS also keeps the front wheel from locking up, you simply need to apply both brakes firmly to keep the bike under control.

Back on the Whisky trail, in the opposite direction this time, I find that a light rain is lubricating the surface. I tackle the fourth section a little more energetically, with the bike clawing into corners effectively, the front remaining well planted while the engine puts out enough power to get you sideways and guide the bike through and out of each corner. Pure joy! I reach impressive speeds on the isolated section, and pass by my merry band of berry pickers on their way back – The road back is now clear!

The kilometres fly by, and the road narrows and becomes bumpier as I approach section 3. My enduro reflexes have kicked in: knees bent, bum 2 cm off the saddle, elbows high, body forward, as I launch myself into section 3 in motocross fashion. The bike takes off… woops, I’d forgotten about that triple patch of loose gravel over there, but the bike clears the obstacle all three times with perfect ease. The more I push it, the better it performs. Damn the torpedos! I tackle section 2 as fast as I can ride.

A simplified look that belies improved aerodynamics and rider comfort on the road and in the dirt. (Photo: BMW)