OFF-ROAD TIPS

From Mick Reast (18 March 2003)

Hi there

I ride a BMW Adventure so do quite a bit of off-road touring and days out. I can give you the story from the dual sport angle!

I have used knobblies and Tourance road tyres off-road and they will both work pretty well. Knobblies will come in useful on more sandy and muddy stretches. I have ridden two up in pretty bad stuff and so long as the pillion is ok with the rear moving around the extra weight helps the rear wheel dig in - for experienced pillions only.

If the road is really bumpy, stand up and let your legs be an extension of your suspension.

On muddy or sandy stetches, best you take at least 10 pounds of pressure out of your tyres. You will get better grip that way. Take a pump with you!

Always keep your speed up in deep mud or sand. Sit back on the seat and let the front glide over the sand. The bike will move around a lot, but as soon as you drop your speed you will bog down. If you are not used to off-road riding this is one of the hardest things to get used to.

Keep hydrated, use a camelbak.

On water crossings its always fun to make a big splash, but coming off in water can still hurt and you could drown your bike in the middle of nowhere, leaving you wet, freezing and spending ages getting the water out. If possible walk across to test the water depth, and whether the bottom is sandy or rocky. 'Walk' the bike across if it looks difficult.

In remote areas always ride in a group. Take a first aid kit, which includes thermal blankets. Let somebody know the route you are taking.

Braking. Well, it depends on your bike, engine braking helps a lot. Turn ABS off, use your rear brake and, of course, be careful when applying the front brakes.

Thats a few tips from me. Just remember to ride within your capabilities, even if thats at 30kph. That way you will enjoy the ride and get to your destination with you and the bike in one piece.

Mick