La Kika’s story
A hero of the road: If one vehicle has earned this title, it must be the MAN M90 14.232 owned by Luis Manuel Ordiales. The truck, which was built in 1991, has covered over 1.8 million kilometres on the roads of Asturias in Spain. Discover which challenges this enduring MAN is still taking on in our Trucklife Story.
The story of “La Kika” plays out in Asturias, driving between the hills and on the winding roads. The MAN M90 14.232, built in 1991, is part of the Grúas Ordiales fleet. Luis Manuel Ordiales, the proud owner of this stalwart truck, lovingly looks back on the over 1.8 million kilometres that his travel companion has covered thanks to his diligent care. The name “La Kika” (Asturic for “little hen”) stands not only for the vehicle’s small stature but is also a symbol of its tough nature and versatility.
The fact that this extraordinary truck has stood the test of time is all thanks to Luis Manuel. Manual has not shied any from any care or maintenance measures to keep the vehicle, which is now over 30 years old, in top condition. Machinery, motorhomes, pallet trucks and forestry equipment have all been successfully transported using the little titan.
“La Kika” is not only a dependable work horse, but also holds sentimental value for its owner. The Ordiales family acquired the MAN truck in 2000. The fact that it has become a kind of crown jewel for Luis Manuel is also due to the fact that he learned to drive “La Kika” at the tender age of 14. Over the years “La Kika” has become an integral part of Luis Manuel’s fleet, which comprises a total of nine vehicles. This truck has always retained its rather special feel, even when working alongside other MAN trucks. Equipped with a sliding platform, the truck has not only transported large loads but also unloaded them in hard-to-reach sites – a real challenge on the tricky roads of Asturias.
Luis Manuel has, meanwhile, put the truck to use for non-work-related tasks: For a few years now, it and its owner have been taking part in the International Descent of the Sella River. This famous canoeing competition attracts participants from every corner of the world to cover the approximately 20-kilometre route from Arriondas to Ribadesella. The International Descent of the Sella River has a significant impact on regional tourism and is characterised by combining a competitive spirit, enjoying nature and a sense of community.
“La Kika” is not just a truck, but a lifetime companion for Luis Manuel, who has no plans to swap it for a newer model. Confidence, simplicity and a great feeling are just some of the qualities that make the Lion a unique partner for him.