Former motorcycle racer, collector and restorer, Lofty Pretorius, offers a glimpse into South African motorcycling culture. Although he owns an impressive collection featuring a rare Jawa, Lofty’s claim to fame in the motorcycling world is co-founding TOY RUN, the biggest motorcycle event across South Africa.

Lofty started riding when he was only eight years old. Although his first ride ended in his grandmother’s rose garden, he wasn’t discouraged by this debacle; quite the opposite. In high school, he was already cruising the streets on Italian machines, which were more accessible at the time than the newly arriving Japanese models.

TOY RUN, a charity event founded in the 1980s by Liz and Steve Kealy, became a significant part of Lofty’s life. He took over the leadership of this event and expanded it throughout South Africa, serving as the national chairman until 2002. The goal of TOY RUN is to collect toys and funds for disadvantaged and disabled children.

Lofty is the proud owner of a 1954 Jawa Z15 double OHC, which he says is the only one in Africa.

Lofty first saw this motorcycle at the Grand Prix in East London in the early 60s when he was still young. He had longed for it since then but only acquired it much later. The story of obtaining this motorcycle is fascinating. Lofty met with the bike’s former mechanic, known as “Killer McGee,” who showed him the disassembled machine. The motorcycle had a tragic history – its original rider was killed racing it in Kekilani, after which the rider’s father ordered the mechanic to dismantle the machine.

Since 1973, Lofty had been searching worldwide for information about this motorcycle. Many people told him that Jawa never produced four-stroke motorcycles. The breakthrough came thanks to two German students who helped him obtain information from behind the Iron Curtain.

The renovation of the motorcycle was a global project, involving people from all over the world, including Australia and New Zealand. Lofty faced many technical challenges, especially due to the magnesium engine, which has different thermal properties than common aluminum engines.

Thanks to TOY RUN and related campaigns, the public perception of bikers has improved, and drivers have become more considerate towards motorcyclists on the roads. Lofty’s story is an inspiring example of how a passion for motorcycles can lead not only to personal fulfillment but also to positive social impact. His extensive experience and impressive collection, including the rare Jawa model, make him a respected authority in this field.