Posted by Eric Lange on Wed, Apr 16, 2014 @ 01:27 PM
Another incredible Southern Patagonia season has just about come to an end, and with a smile, our list of happy customers has grown quite a bit more. Things couldn't be better for RIDE Adventures, now in its 4th year of operation.
Please note, I said "Southern Patagonia." There's still some time to enjoy the Northern Patagonia region though! In fact, we're working on a new Patagonia trip itinerary that should be announced within a couple of weeks, so stay tuned and make sure you sign up for our eNewsletter if you haven't already. This new route should be plenty accessible through April, and even into May by typical Patagonia weather statistics (see link here for Temuco statistics, althought you can see that May's weather typically means a lot of rain.)
Patagonia has changed more this season as we knew would be the case, but suddenly it starts to seem like the incoming pavement is for the better, not for worse. Many of our customers are seeking as much dirt riding as possible on their motorcycle trips, and we've supported them in finding it. Truth is though, there's a fairly small percentage of the riders out there in the world that really handle our "Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego & Ushuaia!" route on any first attempt. The terrain alone is a factor, but a full-blast of Patagonia wind is a complete gamechanger for riders who don't have much experience in such conditions.
We still offer these Patagonia trips as publicly available tours, so don't worry if you don't have a group to bring...just bring yourself! The shown itinerary and calendar dates will pretty much have to stay as they are, unless again, you want to form your own group. The other possibility is that you do have a group formed, and we can custom-fit an itinerary to your exact wishes. A day of rafting on the Futaleufu River? No problem. Fly-fishing excursions for a rest day from the bikes? You'll be in a fly-fishing paradise in Patagonia, so why not enjoy? Tell us what the best motorcycle trip ever would be like for you, and I bet we'll still surprise you about how great the overall Patagonia riding experience is.
Perhaps the best example of what I'm talking about came from one of the riders in our February group. For me as the guide, and the guy who designed the tour for this private group, it's both extremely fun and extremely satisfying when riders reveal how impressed they are with the trip. In particular, one rider, who was otherwise one of the most reserved and quiet of the group eventually lost composure in one of the National Parks and muttered out in his Latin accent but perfect English: "this is fucking incredible." If this had come from any other guy, it wouldn't have been so special perhaps. But coming from a guy who mostly kept to himself, it's extra special to hear and see the impression Patagonia makes on a rider!
Anyway, it's with tremendous satisfaction that we say this Patagonia season ended on a high note, and as mentioned earlier, more research has been done on a Northern Patagonia tour route that will be announced soon. The Lakes Region around Pucon and San Martin de Los Andes has been an overlooked area for far too long, so it's quite exciting to have something new to start offering. (Plus it will open up September and April as travel months for Patagonia.)
It's all part of the job here...finding the best reasons and excuses for you to get out and RIDE! Just contact us anytime you're ready for what might be the best motorcycle trip you've ever taken.
Posted by Eric Lange on Thu, Apr 03, 2014 @ 04:22 PM
KTM Riders in the northeastern U.S., have you met Pete Manzoli yet? Keep an eye out for him…this rider practcially bleeds Orange, and gets around the riding scene.
I first met Pete at the 2011 KTM Adventure Rally in Mill Hall, Pennsylvania. KTM had pulled together a group of about 30 adventure riders in combination with the few-hundred “Durty Dabbers,” a local dual sport riding club known for riding in the Pocanoas. With only 30 of us on the bigger adventure bikes, it was pretty easy to meet the other big-bike riders, and guys like Pete.
What I didn’t know about Pete at first glance was just how far back his passion for the ‘big orange brand’ goes. Truth be told, he looks more like a guy that just got off his Harley and is about to walk into a bar than someone who has been out grinding away through the rocks, mud, and dirt. He’ll be the first to admit this, saying “I know I don’t look the part.” Maybe that’s part of what’s so neat about this slice of humble pie… he is who he is, and isn’t afraid to be.
Back when I was in high school and we joked about the virtually unknown KTM brand as standing for “Kick Twenty Minutes,” Pete was out riding the hills of New Jersey and the Cascade Mountains of the Pacific Northwest, with thousands of miles and smiles forever imprinted in the wilderness. For many of us, brand loyalty stems from memorable experiences where a brand far exceeded expectations. The motorcycle that kept running a few kicks after being submerged in water, the bike that you got lost in the woods with but somehow kept running on what seemed like an impossible amount fuel, or the bike you were riding when you met someone you’re still friends with 20 years later. Whatever the reasons, Pete has his and you probably have yours.
By conversation at the 2011 Rally, I already knew Pete loved the brand; however, it was an invite to his home in New Jersey that truly unveiled his level of devotion. I was due for a valve adjustment on my 2004 950 Adventure S at the time, but still lived on the road promoting and growing www.rideadv.com, and didn’t keep all the proper tools, carb-sync meters and such with me. Gladly accepting the offer for a proper workshop (instead of my usual hotel parking lot or campground) I found that Pete’s garage, all the spec sheets, and everything I could have possibly needed were all set up specifically for KTM work. As if it was a shop dedicated to Marc Coma, Taddy Blazusiak, or another top-level KTM sponsored rider, we enjoyed the weekend hanging out talking bikes, and getting mine back to tip-top shape.
Walking through the lower level of his house, “Orange” decor is splattered all over the walls. Covered with original posters from the 80’s, news articles about bike releases from the 90’s, and every bit of brand history makes this area almost a “KTM History Museum.” If it happened to the Austrian brand, Pete knew about it and saved the article or press release. Simply awesome to see such a passion for a brand.
While Pete’s appearance, his garage, and his bikes may be donning Orange and Black, don’t mistake him for a typical Harley rider; he is a true adventure rider that will seemingly have nothing to do with a bike or brand that doesn’t boast the KTM logo. Say hi to him when you have the chance to at the next rally or race, though. His new 1190 KTM Adventure is on the way, and once he gets that, I don’t imagine you’ll be able to catch him!
Posted by Eric Lange on Fri, Mar 07, 2014 @ 10:39 AM
It's with great pleasure I can say we finished our February 17th private group tour of Patagonia on the BMW motorcycles with success! This trip was a request by a group of riding buddies from Mexico, who first contacted RIDE Adventures back in September 2013.
As we're always reminding folks, September is pretty late in the year to still get bikes and hotels together for peak-season Patagonia (which is October through March.) However, through some hard work by those supporting RIDE Adventures and our trusted partners in Patagonia, we pulled everything together for a great adventure ride. (Mario, Gustavo, Sigifredo, and Juan Carlos, 3 of the 8 Riders at Lago Grey above in Torres del Paine National Park.)
In particular, we had incredible luck on this trip with the weather! Whereas many riders in Patagonia had been reporting harsh rains earlier in the season, 16 Days we spent from Osorno to Ushuaia, and then back to Punta Arenas only came with a few minor showers here and there. Even the wind, which can often be over 100kph, never became a huge factor on this trip.
On the final night of the tour, I always like to toss the question about "which is the best motorcycle trip you've ever done?" Not trying to over-pump Patagonia, or speak too highly about our services here at RIDE Adventures, but the consensus once again was that this trip beats them all. (And this time it was from a group of guys who had done plenty of other trips.) In fact, talks are already underway for a few guys to return with friends and family members to do it all again. (To the right, Salvador "El Oso" enjoys the snow-capped Andes Mountains surrounding Lago General Carrera.)
RIDE Adventures is always supporting motorcycle travelers, whether they're looking for a full-service guided tour experience, or a "self-guided" trip where they just rent the motorcycles from us. There are benefits to both options of course, the latter saving some money overall. But the guided tours like the one we just finished sure do come with their advantages. When there's a flat tire, Thomas (support truck driver) and myself have it all fixed in 7-30 minutes, depending on if it's a tubed or tubeless tire. The customers just sit there and enjoy a snack while we work away. Likewise, we had a pretty serious crash with one rider, who did break his leg. Unfortunate as that is, with our satellite phone and local knowledge, we had an ambulance on the site within an hour (in a very remote region near Futaleufu) and the rider was taken care of swiftly and in comfort.
So, there are advantages to these guided/supported tours for sure! I always wish these tours didn't cost so much, so that more people could enjoy them. Once you take a look at the cost of everything down here in Patagonia (hotels, food, BMW's, trucks, etc.) it becomes quite clear why the pricing is as such.
More news and stories about that trip, soon. Still getting ready for the next trip, which starts tomorrow morning! You can see upcoming dates for this Patagonia trip on this link, and let us know when you're going to enjoy this incredible landscape personally.
Posted by Eric Lange on Tue, Feb 04, 2014 @ 06:35 AM
Starting from the Mariscal Sucre District of Quito, Ecuador, the "10 Best Days of Ecuador" motorcycle tour is underway!
Riders from the U.S. (Chuck, Dave, Bob, and David) are all on Suzuki DR650's, Kawasaki KLR 650's, and a Husqvarna TR 650 for a 10-Day loop through what is known as "The World's Most Ecologically Diverse Country." With the wide variety of plant and wildlife we'll encounter in this fairly small country, the geological and topographical changes shouldn't be overlooked either.
We started with visit to the Intiñan Museum, which marks the "Middle of the Earth" on the equator. A series of fun experiments, (like seeing the way water flows differently in the northern and southern hemispheres) and a history of the indigenous people kept us entertained.
On through to Otavalo and saw the shores of Lake San Pablo, followed by an entire day of awesome Andean valley views, waterfalls, and bright green foliage on the way to Mindo on Day 2. Mindo is a neat setting due to its rainforest-like setting, and surrounding coffee and cocoa / chocolate plantations. Upon arrival there, we actually took a guided tour through the cocoa plant and learned where that incredible food comes from, how it's processed, and becomes such a treat for us all. (Below I'm touching the cocoa pods that hold 45-50 cocoa beans, then stripped down and processed into El Quetzal's chocolate bars and products, ranging from 55%, 77%, 85%, and 100% cocoa chocolate bars to barbeque sauces with chocolate in them!)
This trip is an excellent one for those who like the off-motorcycle experiences as much as the do the actual motorcycle riding. On Day 3, the route to Canoa on the coast, the guides will take you to a hidden "Cascada" (Waterfall) by walking about 45 minutes through jungle-like canopy. We walk through Jackfruit trees that produce fruits larger than basketballs, a variety of other interesting flowers and vegetation. Eventually arriving for a swim at this hidden lagoon and waterfall, clean fresh water feels great! Then back to the bikes to suit up again and hit the road. Below, Dave digs into a Jackfruit that yields litterally fistfulls of delicous, semi-sweet fruit.)
January & February are of course very busy months for us here in Ecuador! Everyone in the northern hemisphere is trying to get out of the cold, and the year-round comfortable temperatures here on the equator sure have made for a pleasant winter getaway. Our group has a couple of riders from Wisconsin, so the warm weather is especially appreciated right now!
Stay tuned for more of a trip report soon. We're about to do some yoga on the beach here in Canoa, and then head down the coast to Puerto de Cayo along the many shrimp farms and watermelon plantations. "The World's Most Ecologically Diverse Country" simply does not disappoint if you're a nature lover OR a motorcycle rider, so be sure to grab a spot on your next "10 Best Days of Ecuador" motorcycle trip if that describes you! Of course, you do need to be an experienced motorcycle rider...we'll help you determine if you're fit for the ride.
Posted by Eric Lange on Sat, Jan 11, 2014 @ 04:34 PM
Still can’t believe you didn’t join us!
We just finished another Discover Colombia motorcycle trip in the heart of this beautiful country. Nobody encountered the drug cartels. Nobody was confronted or mugged. Everyone had a great time, and I think we all felt the true warmth and friendliness of the Colombian people.
One afternoon when riding from Villa Vieja to Tierradentro, one of the BMW F800GS’s had a suspension issue, and had to put up on the truck for the rest of the day. Long story short, we had some issues with the tie-down situation on the truck, while in the middle of a small village somewhere along the route. Were weren’t stopped but for 2 minutes before a crowd had formed around us in the town plaza, and one local guy in particular basically thrust his way into our situation. He absolutely insisted upon sawing the wood we needed to rearrange the truck, did most of the heavy lifting for us and then refused the few dollars-worth of gratuity we offered him. His reason? “Ustedes son huespedes en mi pais!” (In English: You are guests in my country!”) We didn't really need his help, but he wouldn't let us do the work!
Many travelers still have an impression of ‘pure mayhem and danger’ when Colombia comes to mind. This is understandable, as the troubles depicted in movies and new reports were for many years, quite accurate. Colombia did have a troubled past with the drug cartels and corruption, such that even the citizens of this country were in essence “trapped” at home. What many of us need to realize now is things have changed here in Colombia, and we now travel throughout the country with complete freedom and security. (To the Right, passersby on a motorcycle were part of the cornflower fight in the streets of a small town on New Year's Eve. NO, that's NOT cocaine!)
Can you find trouble here in Colombia? Sure you can. Much the same as you can find trouble in Chicago, Toronto, Munich, or Sydney. If you stay out in the streets until 4am in unsavory parts of any city in the world, it’s possible to come across the wrong people. In over 4 years of working in this business though, with hundreds of customers up to this point, I still don’t know of any true horror stories that should stop anyone from visiting Latin America.
What’s interesting is that while much of the world still holds a dark and haunted image of Latin America, the opposite could not be more accurate. Especially here in Colombia, recently declared the “Happiest Country in the World,” travelers are likely to be surprised. These people who have risen from such a troubled past are now realizing what a precious country they stand on, and they’re extremely proud of it. (Below: Chris, Fritz and I went out for a run in Popayan and found this view atop one of the hills. A public park full of friendly faces, it made for a true "moment" near the end of our trip.)
Matthias, one of the riders from Germany said it simply after our farewell dinner on Friday night: “It was quite an experience.” For many of us, these trips aren’t necessarily about the scenery, the twists & turns, or the riding in the Andes Mountains. The overall experience is what many of us are after, and will take away from such an adventure. Going somewhere you thought you might have never gone in your life contributes to that.
I guess the point of all this is, if money or getting time away are your reasons for not venturing off on a motorcycle trip like this, well, those are good reasons. Best to wait until your situation is right for it. However, if the fear of the unknown or what you’ve seen in movies is what’s keeping you back, please reconsider. Colombia and the rest of Latin America is waiting for you with open arms, bright and shiny smiles, and what will likely be one of the best travel experiences you’ll ever have. Coming from someone who for years thought that South America would be the last continent I’d ever visit, I sure am glad I’m working and visiting down here each year.
Greetings from Colombia,
Eric
Posted by Eric Lange on Wed, Dec 25, 2013 @ 08:30 PM
Friends and fellow motorcycle riders, a huge thanks goes out to all of you for making 2013 such an incredible year for RIDE Adventures, LLC! The business saw fantastic growth in its 3rd year since opening, and we'll proudly continue with more plans for making more happy customers in 2014 and beyond.
A few highlights from 2013:
Rider Magazine Article: March 2013 saw a group of highly respected motorcycle industry owners and managers get together for the "Industry Invitational 2013," and Arden Kysely from Rider Magazine came along to cover our Patagonia Experience motorcycle tour. That article from August has helped promote the service we offer, helping riders see the incredible Andes Mountains of Chile and Argentina.
Motorcycle Rallies and Events: Always looking forward to getting out and meeting you in person, we had booths at the MSTA Star 2013 in Lexington, Kentucky, the BMW RA at the Biltmore in North Carolina, the BMW MOA Rally in Salem, Oregon, and the Curve Cowboy Reunion 2013 in Bend, Oregon. So great meeting you all in person! We look forward to more events in 2014.
Expansion of Partners Network: It's no secret, we depend heavily on our trusted Partners and fellow tour & rental operators around the world. Anyone in the travel business who tells you otherwise, just isn't telling the truth. As such, we've taken our relationships with existing Partners to new levels, allowing you to communicate directly with them through our website. So you still get the comfort of dealing with the U.S.-based RIDE Adventures, LLC, and you still get the reassurance that we're connecting you only the best providers in each region, and you still get the benefits of the Repeat Customer Discount program; but now, you can communicate directly with the best providers in each country for arranging your motorcycle trip! This year we added motorcycle rentals in South Africa and New Zealand to make sure you're taken care of when winter rolls in up north.
The list could honestly go on forever, but as you can tell by the gaps of time in between recent blog posts, things are VERY busy right now, and time is tight. I personally am off to Colombia in the morning to help with the last "Discover Colombia" guided tour for 2013. Then off to Ecuador and Patagonia for other tours through March.
My best wishes go to all of you for similar travel plans and a safe and healthy 2014. Perhaps I'll be seeing you on one of these tours, if not in 2014, sometime soon!
RIDE on!
Posted by Sarah Williams on Sat, Nov 30, 2013 @ 09:19 AM
We just finish one of the quicker and easier builds on a dual sport bike: Installing the Rox Speed FX handlebar risers on a 2009 Husqvarna TE450.
The Need: Obviously for the standing position and overall comfort, we felt the original bar position was a little low. These 2" risers from Rox were ordered, and came out of the package gleaming with post-machining perfection typical from the Rox people in Minnesota.
The Install: About a half an hour was needed in total.
1) We took the handlebar guards off so that we could re-route some of the wires and cables to the bottom side of those brackets you see the finger pointing to. (Not sure if they are Husky original parts or what, this bike was a last-minute, used purchase for the Pine Barrens 300 in New Jersey.)
2) The installation of the Rox risers was easy as usual. Using the original handlebar mount, simple allen wrenches and hex-heads, and then spending a few minutes adjusting, feeling, and adjusting, before tightening them down for good.
3) Re-securing everything like the handlebar guards was easy, and we were done!
WE'VE USED THESE RISERS On the "Patagonia Experience" dual sport adventure in Chile & Argentina
Unlike other forum posts out there, we don't seem to have any issue with cable/wire tension or restriction, once they were re-routed below the handlebar guard brackets. That being said, you can see about a 20mm/.78 inch drop of the triple clamp over the fork tubes. The primary rider of this bike might be raising those soon, but there is so much slack already in these lines, it doesn't appear that we'll have issues with tension througout full range of motion.
So the end result is a "thumbs up" vote for another set of Rox Risers on the Husqvarna! Their simple-genius design will allow for more adjustability than standard block-type risers, if there should ever be a need. Add to all this some pretty snazzy looks, and we're big fans of these risers. (Having used them on a Yamaha XT250, BMW R1200GS, GS Adventure, and KTM 950 as well, they will undoubtedly be a feature of any bike we work on.)
(Below: With the handlebar guard off, we're able to just reroute the necessary cables and such around that black mount/bracket. Clutch hose didn't need to be moved. Bottom: The freshly farkled trail-riding machine!)
Posted by Eric Lange on Sun, Nov 24, 2013 @ 07:08 AM
Talking with a friend the other day, I was reminded of a time when I didn't have reliable, properly functioning, waterproof motorcycle gear. Out there in the rain, wind, and shivering cold there were times I was wondering "why on earth anyone would ride motorcycles?"
The truth is, I kind of miss those moments.
Back in 2009/10, I spent lots of time out prospecting routes in the Andes Mountains in search of the best motorcycle trips possible. Thousands of kilometers, week after week, sometimes for a couple of months at a time, and of course I had to deal with the occasional storm or mechanical issue.
With motorcycle travel comes flat tires, empty fuel tanks and other delays, so of course there were occasions where I was stuck in horrible weather just trying to fight my way to any kind of civilization where I could put a roof over my head. Passing on the option to set up my already-soaked tent in those Patagonia winds, I just wanted a warm & dry room and often fought it out with the chill of the night.
Occasionally I'd get close enough to a tourist bus or truck to catch a glimpse of the cozy faces all bundled up inside. "Why on earth am I traveling like this again?" as I felt the warmth of the truck's engine along side me. It's amazing how such a source of heat makes itself apparent when you're shivering in the dark. Wishing for nothing more than warmth and comfort to be waiting at the end, every mile can be a grind.
I guess the point in sharing these memories is that, they are now exactly that, "memories." Brutally uncomfortable experiences at the time sure don't seem like something to remember, but somehow, moments like those are the ones that stick out years later. I now look upon them with a smile because I survived. (Long since, I have upgraded to excellent motorcycle gear made by Klim, as reviewed on this link for the jacket, and this link for the pants.)
FREE DOWNLOAD OF MOTORCYCLE GEAR ADVICE Can Be Found By Clicking This Button
These thoughts come up now as I think of the many self-guided motorcycle rental customers we've booked this season are all getting ready for their own fantastic voyages in Patagonia and other destinations. Nerves and trepidation are ominpresent amongst these riders, and questions are pouring in as they all second-guess the adventure ahead. While I wish them the most incredible experiences, in the back of my mind, a small part of me hopes they encounter at least some amount of challenge on their voyage ... the type of challenge that make adventure riding so special.
We head out into the unknown in search of new experiences, sites & scenery, and the ultimate adventure. Just don't forget folks, overcoming obstacles is all part of that. As a noun, the word "Adventure" is listed as "an unusual and exciting, typically hazardous, experience or activity. As a verb, "engage in hazardous and exciting activity, esp. the exploration of unknown territory." (Source: Google) Mash all those thoughts together, and we should expect that things won't go as planned. That, afterall, might be exactly what we're after, what we need, and what we desire.
WANT A SELF-GUIDED MOTORCYCLE TRIP? We Help Riders With Everything Needed Right Here
Posted by Eric Lange on Thu, Oct 24, 2013 @ 06:56 PM
Maybe you've done water crossings before, or your luck as an adventure rider has yet to produce the opportunity. Whatever the case, there are at least 7 important points to consider before you go riding through any river, stream, puddle, or whatever you come across! Please take advantage of the notes below, or the video review on this link.
7 Important Things to Consider
1) Let Your Bike Cool Down, First!
We've all heard the warnings and perhaps some of you have even seen it happen: Cold water hitting extremely hot metal could result in damage or cracking motorcycle parts.
This being said, it's best to let your engine and other motorcycle parts cool down just a bit before entering extremely cold water. Brake rotors on cars are well-known for warping after hitting cold puddles, so it's fair to say the same reaction could take place with a motorcycle brake discs. If you hurried up to a cold glacier-fed water crossing and suddenly hit the brakes, or perhaps let your engine idle for a few minutes while contemplating the decision to cross, it's best to wait until a more "moderate" difference in temperatures exists between said parts and the water. Although it's rare or unlikely to sustain damage from such an encounter, it is a possibility.
2) Check How Deep the Water Is
From a distance or certain angles, you might not be able to know just how deep a body of water is. That being said, it's best to get off the bike, walk out into the water, and determine just how deep or "unforgiving" your projected path of travel is. We take risks every day as motorcycle riders, and some risks like water crossings tend to stress the financial side of things more than safety concerns. See how the depth of the water relates to Point #4 just ahead!
ENJOY A RIVER CROSSING On Our "Patagonia Experience" Guided Motorcycle Tour in the Andes
3) Consider the Strength of the Water Current
If it's a large, standing puddle of non-moving, this doesn't apply; but a strongly flowing river crossing is an entirely different situation. Have a good look and do what you can to feel the current before riding out into it. Then imagine the incredible power that water (at over 8lbs/3kg per gallon) would have as it's slamming into the side of your motorcycle. Would you be able to keep the bike upright against that force? Also keep in mind that if you have to lean your bike into the current in order to stay upright, the current will be "lifting" your bike slightly, lessening your traction and contact with the ground. On top of what might already be a slippery surface under the water, and one where your feet could slip as well, try to determine in advance if crossing such extreme current is realistic or not.
4) Know Where Your Air Intake Is
Even the BMW R1200GS, the longtime title holder of "world's most popular adventure bike" doesn't offer much in terms of how deep water can be before reaching the air intake point (until the 2013 model year when the Liquid Cooled version of the boxer engine also meant BMW also raised the air intake point.) The point is, you should know for sure where the point is that your engine breathes from, as submerging the motorcycle in water up to that point will not be a good idea. (Hopefully we don't have to explain that engines don't stay running if they're gulping water. Photo above/right shows how Ian's engine was choking after just brushing the top of the river in Patagonia.)
5) Choose: Sitting vs. Standing Position
As is covered in our Free Whitepaper Download about Sitting vs. Standing while riding, there are Pro's and Con's to both positions during water crossings as well. When seated, you'll be able to tap the ground with your feet if you need to regain balance, but your visibility of what lies ahead isn't as good as when you're standing. Then again, what if you're riding along in the standing position and don't see a log hidden under the water at a 45-degree angle from which you're traveling? Even at a mere 2-3 mph, it's quite unlikely you'll be able to keep from falling (unless you were able to tap your foot down to maintain balance.) Again, keep in mind the Pro's and Con's of both riding positions, and don't just think about what looks cool for the camera!
6) Clear Your Engine Carefully If Needed
Did your bike end up in the water? Don't feel bad, you're probably not alone.
If your engine stopped running and there's even a chance your engine's combustion chamber(s) consumed any water, don't just push the button and try to start it right away as you could destroy your engine. What's known as "hydrolock" means you've got a significant amount of water above the pistons, (in the combustion chambers) and you'll want to clear that water out safely before cranking the engine over with your electric start. Take the spark plug(s) out, put the motorcycle in gear, and rotate the rear wheel by either pushing the bike or spinning it by hand. You'll see water spraying out the spark plug holes as the engine turns through its cycle, and after a good 10-15 cycles, it should be ready to reassemble and run again. (Be sure that your airbox is empty as well!) You'll want to inspect your oil situation at the same time. Is it white and "milky?" That means water got mixed in with the oil, and should be changed immediately, or at least as soon as possible.
7) Check Your Brake Fluid & Pump Your Brakes
It's quite unlikely that water would get into your brake lines or reservoirs, but still a good idea to be aware of this possibility before proceding. In short, do an entire brake system inspection and make sure proper pressure is still applicable through your hand and foot levers before proceeding. Much the same, be sure to pump the brakes and dry-off the brake pads and calipers a bit, as water can obviously keep your brakes from functioning 100%. So don't just pull out into traffic without checking your brakes!
As always, be sure to check our "Free Motorcycle Travel Info" page on www.rideadv.com, download anything that will help you and your adventure travel plans, and let us know when we can help make your motorcycle travel wishes a reality!
OREGON DUAL SPORT RENTALS Shown Here Gave Us the Footage for the River Crossing Video!
Posted by Eric Lange on Mon, Oct 21, 2013 @ 06:44 AM
If you've booked your motorcycle rental or guided tour with us and need to figure out the best way to transport all your clothes, riding gear, and travel items, this short version of our "How to Pack" video series sums it all up nicely for you! It's a low-cost, reliable way to make sure you're not stuck figuring out a plan for your excess luggage.
Either see the video embedded below, or follow these important points:
1) Start with 2 Duffel Bags, about 100 liters each. If you don't like the duffel bag style, certainly consider a motorcycle-specific option like the Giant Loop Great Basin Saddlebag.
- The 1st bag, which should be water and dustproof, is used for carrying your daily clothes, blue jeans, shirts, underwear, etc.
- The 2nd bag is dedicated to carrying your motorcycle gear, boots, jackets, helmet, etc.
2) When you arrive at your destination, you'll empty the 2nd bag by putting on your motorcycle gear each day
3) Slide the empty bag into the bottom of your 1st bag, and enjoy your motorcycle trip!
With this simple 2 Piece Duffel Bag System, you don't have to worry about storing or transporting hard, cumbersome suitcases (which are not allowed in the support trucks of most guided tours anyway.) The empty bag will also act as a form of protection in the bottom of the 1st bag, such that hard objects inside the bag aren't rubbing against hard surfaces on the back of your rental motorcycle, or the bed of the support truck in the case of a guided tour.
Again, hard-case traditional "square" luggage should have no place in motorcycle travel. I've personally been traveling with this 2-Duffel system for over 5 years now, and haven't had a single problem with it. Sure, it takes some creativity to make sure the peak/visor of my
dual sport helmet doesn't get knocked off in transit, but that's not too tough to figure out.
So check out the video below, and let us know if you have any questions!
DOWNLOAD FREE MOTORCYCLE TRAVEL INFO Here on This Page Dedicated to Helping You!