3 Prized Possessions – Geoff Ballard

Geoff Ballard isn’t a man who needs material things to get by. After all, in 1979, with zero German language skills, he lived out of a Kombi in the carpark of the West German Maico Factory with nothing but a race bike, stove and mattress. But that isn’t to say he doesn’t like toys. Aside from his family and farm – and a few glasses of red – this is Geoff’s take on what he treasures most. And if you want to see Geoff ripping around, check out our latest “My Backyard” episode, produced in partnership with VW Amarok.

iPhone

I’m the worst guy on the planet with anything electronic, and in the past I’ve always bloody hated phones -– I’m old-school. But this thing’s different. I can actually get on with it, and I’m finally doing a few savvy things like the young ‘dudes’ all do. I can keep in touch with friends, and find out what’s going on through the Internet. It’s like, wow, I’m enjoying this and I’m always learning something new. It’s a big part of my every day.

1981 Maico 490

Every time I look at it, the thing just makes me smile. It’s a great bike. It’s the make and model that’s legendary, especially to a lot of us old blokes. But for me in particular, it just brings back such great memories. It’s been in the family for a long time, but I even still love riding it these days. I could probably ride it as fast as any bike around now on the right track. And bring back the Bing Carburettor – mate, the thing is legendary!

The Bobcat

It’s my therapy. It’s just good fun, and every guy likes movin’ dirt around. The thing’s good for maintaining the tracks, of course. And if I do a good job of it, I’m a popular man. But above everything, it’s just something different and a bit of an escape from the norm. I’ve rolled it – it’s probably the most dangerous thing I own, so my son Josh stays away from it. I’m not precious about her, and Benny Burrell has a bit of a go, too.

Who is Geoff Ballard?

Despite opposition from his parents, Geoff saved up to buy a 70cc Suzuki stepthrough during high school, but the thing folded in half part-way through his first race. He’s since become Australia’s most decorated enduro rider, with an Order of Australia Medal, and multiple ISDE gold medals and national titles under his belt. He now runs the Ballard’s Offroad business and still rides his arse off.

NOTE: This content originally appeared in Issue #1, of Transmoto Dirt Bike Magazine in 2010.