Des Pistorius was a legendary motorcycle enthusiast from Durban (specifically Queensburgh area), South Africa, known for his epic biking adventures and his inseparable companion, Boswell the dog — often called the “biker dog.”
Des was a long-time rider who clocked over 1 million kilometers on his Honda Gold Wing motorcycle, which he bought second-hand with just 1,900 km on the clock. He was a prominent member of the Ulysses motorcycle club (even earning “K9” status for his dog), attended countless rallies, and had a distinctive look with a long, flowing beard.
Boswell was his loyal four-legged sidekick who rode along famously — “tank-surfing” on the petrol tank or saddle between Des’s legs. Boswell was so well-known that he was considered a paid-up member of the biking community and even went missing once in 2012, prompting local alerts.
Some highlights of their adventures:
- They completed a massive 8,200 km trip around the borders of South Africa in 52 days on a Vespa scooter (when Des was 76 years old).
- Another notable ride was a 6,500 km tour of South Africa on a rebuilt 1978 Vespa 200cc, towing a trailer.
- Boswell replaced an earlier dog named Widget, who had also been a keen biker companion (including rides up Sani Pass).
Des passed away in April 2014 at age 79 after an illness, and he was fondly remembered in South African biking circles as a true legend.
This duo became iconic in Durban’s motorcycling scene for their adventures and the charming sight of a dog happily riding along.
(If you’re looking for photos of them, there are old articles and tributes online showing Des and Boswell on the bike — Boswell perched proudly on the tank!)
