Expedition Motorcycles

[Scott Brady]

Well, Hltoppr's posts on Expedition ready motorcycles begged a new thread. I know he is considering an new BMW, so maybe we can follow his progress (and other thoughts) here.

The use of a motorcycle for expedition travel certainly is a compelling one. It is like backpacking (similar weight and size constraints), but being able to travel MORE distance in the same time as a four wheeled vehicle.

My favorite is the 1150GS from BMW
http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/machine/models/r1150gs_adv/gallery_photos/4.jpg

Though, I would in reality purchase the 650GS Dakar:
http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/machine/models/f650gs_dakar/gallery_photos/9.jpg
http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/images/machine/f650gs_dakar/bike/base_blue_metallic_white_aluminum_metallic.jpg
They can be purchased just a few years old for around 5k.

[mountainpete]

Well I'm a BMW motorcycle fan. I own one myself - an R1200C. It's a cruiser and not a GS style. Might swap it out in a few years though... I still keep my eyes open for one.

The direct drive 1150 GS and 1150 GS Adventure (GSA) are amazing bikes. Fast, absorbs well and can really take a beating. So is the newer 1200 GS, although I personally have some reservations about the 1200 vs the 1150 for serious expeditions. They are big and heavy bikes though. The chain driven 650's are a lot more nimble, but can lack power with a load on the highway. Either are an excellent choice and both have been on the hardest global touring routes with stellar results.

But if you are going to look at BMW adventure bikes, you have to looks at KTM as well. The 950 Adventure is a pretty sweet bike.

If you haven't seen these sites, check it out:

Globe Riders: http://www.globeriders.com/video_multimedia_pages/video_multimedia.shtml
650 Forums (The Chain Gang): http://www.f650.com
Adventure Rider Forum: http://www.advrider.com (a lot like this site but with bikes :luxhello: )

Pete

[Ursidae69]

I had a Kawasaki KLR 650 that I sold last year. I miss it. :( Dual sports are so much fun, I'd love to get one of these BMWs. Reminds me of the LongWayRound TV show I started a thread about last year. Still waiting for the US version of the dvd to come out. I have all the episodes from last year recorded on my DVR at home. :victory:

[mountainpete]

I read the book Long Way Round... never saw the TV show. Did they complain as much on TV as they did in the book?

[Ursidae69]

I read the book Long Way Round... never saw the TV show. Did they complain as much on TV as they did in the book?

I read the book too, no, not as much complaining in the TV show versus the book. They are a couple softies, but they sure got into some beautiful country, especially Mongolia and eastern Russia. The Road of Bones was pretty cool. :lurk:

[mountainpete]

I read the book too, no, not as much complaining in the TV show versus the book. They are a couple softies, but they sure got into some beautiful country, especially Mongolia and eastern Russia. The Road of Bones was pretty cool. :lurk:

Did they actually show Road of the Bones on the show? That would be really cool to see...

On the subject of books, have you ever read Who Needs A Road?

[Ursidae69]

Did they actually show Road of the Bones on the show? That would be really cool to see...

On the subject of books, have you ever read Who Needs A Road?

Yeah, the last episode was all road of bones, but it just didn't do it justice. I'm hoping the DVD will have a lot more content. There were several bridges out and they rode across swollen rivers in the back of this huge lorrie that was heading east. Cool stuff.

Not read that book, I'll have to look it up. Thanks!

[lionsbreath]

:archaeolo
What a funny thought, I was going to pose a thread on duel sports. I was in the BMW shop in Scottsdale last week looking. They have 2 nice f series for around 10k. Bang for the buck equals a KLR650 though. The KLR is 1/2 the price and hold the most fuel (stock tank 6.2gal). The after market is better on a KLR as well. But, on the other hand nothing rides like a BMW. KLRs' are hare to find my local dealer of cave creek road said no new ones until Dec. or so. Used ones are hard to come by localy as well. BMWs' are easier to find on the other hand.

[mountainpete]

Lionsbreath - you'll find that there is really nothing else like riding a BMW. Not only is the ride amazing, it's the best conversation starter you can imagine. Eventhough my BMW is a cruiser, I can't go into a single parking lot without someone making a positive comment or want to start a conversation. Great bike to travel on.

Pete

[Scott Brady]

Great discussion

What appeals to me most about the bike is the efficiency in which you can travel. Unless the trail is really rocky, a bike can travel at nearly twice the speed, and not really be pushing it.

I will probably build one at some point, but most likely after the sailboat...

[mountainpete]

Build one Scott? Do you mean from frame up?

You're right about the speed and ease of a bike. But I think it's more than that. It's a totally different perspective on a bike. Things smell (good and bad), you feel the weather more (a sunny day is amazing) and you see things differently. There are roads (even in the city) that I have driven thousands of times - but when you ride them on a bike, the road totally changes and you see things you never noticed before. Again, my bike is a street queen, but I can just imagine my favorite fire road on a bike - sweeping around the corners. At work, I have a poster on my wall just above my computer. It's a BMW 1150 GSA ad showing pics of Bolivia and a single tire track across a desert towards the mountains. The daydreams that poster has started for me.... :)

Reliability though is a question for expedtion use. What is more reliable? A well prepared expedition truck or a well prepared expedition bike?

With a truck you can pack a lot more spare parts and tools. With a bike, there are less parts to break. With a truck most of the things that break are mechanical or suspension - with a bike, you are more likely to have impact damage or broken accessories like saddelbag frames.

Thoughts?

Pete

[Ursidae69]

Good question Pete on reliability. I think the motor and such is more reliable on the bike, but you have things like chains that are more prone to failure. Flats on bikes can be a problem too.

I never slid my KLR around a corner on any dirt road, I wasn't that good! I just got my first motorcycle ever in 2002, a Honda Nighthawk, then a few months later I sold it and got the KLR. When I get another dual-sport I intend to take a class on off-roading with bikes. Hitting sand and soft spots, I dumped the bike several times (Thankfully, neither me nor the bike were ever hurt badly). I took the MSF course for learning howw to ride, I need to fiond somethign equivalent for off-road.

[Scott Brady]

No, it would be a typical Scotty build. Buy a new (or lightly used) 650, and mount a bunch of cool expedition stuff to it. storage boxes, GPS, big tank, armor, etc.

Then I would need to regear it of course :p

[mountainpete]

Then I would need to regear it of course :p

And a snorkel... gotta have a snorkel. :p

[Hltoppr]

I've done just about 4000 miles of "expedition biking" this summer, down Baja to Mulege, and then up the West coast of Mexico and another trip from Flagstaff to Chaco Canyon New Mexico, Silverton Colorado and Hovenweep Nat.Mon. in Utah.....

Traveling by motorbike is possibly one of the best things I've experienced in my lifetime! While packing light is a must, it's a fantastic way to travel. It's really nice to have fuel costs as a secondary consideration, instead of a major expense.

I just sold my first bike, a Honda XR650L, which was a fantastic all around dual sport....if you don't mind a little less highway comfort and are traveling solo. I would recommend it greatly.

That being said...a 2001-2004 BMW GS Adventure is on the horizon for me, as I'd like the ability to travel with my wife, and have better highway manners.

As for the LWR DVD....I broke down and ordered one. It kicks *****! BTW...it will play on older DVD players (like mine) or on an XBox or computer DVD player.

I ordered mine directly from the LWR website....cost about $40.00 with shipping and worth every penny.

-H-

[Hltoppr]

Crap...I just realized how much I miss having a moto..... :( :(

-H-

[BajaTaco]

I've done just about 4000 miles of "expedition biking" this summer, down Baja to Mulege, and then up the West coast of Mexico and another trip from Flagstaff to Chaco Canyon New Mexico, Silverton Colorado and Hovenweep Nat.Mon. in Utah.....

Yea baby!! :victory:

[Hltoppr]

I'm on a 22 month countdown to paying off my student loans....then it'll only get worse!

....or better, from my point of view!

-H-

:victory:

[Hltoppr]

BTW, the pics of the yamahas Goodtimes posted in my XR sale thread are a couple of Brits traveling around the world, Lew & Anita!

I met them in San Ignacio and hung out, kayaking, drinking and BSing in and around Mulege for a few days! Great folks!

Their web site is www.yamaroundtheworld.com

-H-

[Ursidae69]

As for the LWR DVD....I broke down and ordered one. It kicks *****! BTW...it will play on older DVD players (like mine) or on an XBox or computer DVD player.

I ordered mine directly from the LWR website....cost about $40.00 with shipping and worth every penny.

-H-

I've been patiently waiting for the US version. Why the hell does the US have a different version DVD than the rest of the world anyway?? I'm almost ready to break down and buy the Pal format and watch it on my computer at work! Glad to hear you liked it, I'm really looking forward to it.

By the way, here is the website if anyone is interested: Long Way Round (http://www.longwayround.com/lwr.php)

[BajaTaco]

Cool!

A few years ago, Ursidae69 and I ran into a couple named Simon and Monika in Baja - riding BMWs. R1150GS I believe. They were from Europe and working on the BMW Ultimate Adventure and Guinness World Records - not sure what ever happened, their website - www.spiritsofadventure.com (http://www.spiritsofadventure.com/) - doesn't seem to be working.

Here is a pic I snapped...

http://www.bajataco.com/baja2002/L_PICT0179.jpg

[Ursidae69]

I remember that well Chris, Simon was quite the character too. :lurk:

[mountainpete]

Cool!

A few years ago, Ursidae69 and I ran into a couple named Simon and Monika in Baja - riding BMWs. R1150GS I believe.
http://www.bajataco.com/baja2002/L_PICT0179.jpg

The far bike is an 1150 GS. The closer bike isn't. 1150's have direct drive and not chains. The closer bike looks like an f650, but I'm not positive.

Hey, by the way... Brad and Angelina are BMW riders! Brad has a glorious 1150 GSA. http://www.worldofbmw.com/content/article.asp?article=333&artDate=27/09/2005 :victory:

Pete

[BajaTaco]

The far bike is an 1150 GS. The closer bike isn't. 1150's have direct drive and not chains. The closer bike looks like an f650, but I'm not positive.

Ur guud ;) I looked it up:

BMW R1150GS Simon
BMW F650GS Monika

[Hltoppr]

...help, I have a sickness....

I really like this...for a new expedition bike...perfect for baja, with a sidecar drive option!

New Ural "Gear-Up"

-H-
:D

[Scott Brady]

What is the realistic range of a BMW 650? Realistic city mileage?

[mountainpete]

What is the realistic range of a BMW 650? Realistic city mileage?

Depends on how you ride it. It it's loaded down and you ride like it's stolen you will probably only do 50 - 55MPG (compared to a Tacoma the word "only" isn't right is it?). If your right hand is light and you do mostly highway speed, you could get over 70 MPG.

In the city, you will probably get between 150 - 180 miles before your reserve light comes on. That's with spirited city riding. On the highway, over 210 miles is not uncommon.

Some additional info here: http://faq.f650.com/GSFAQs/FuelTankFAQGS.htm#Whats%20the%20average%20GS%20Gas %20Mileage

Pete

[durango_60]

Here is an interesting site about a guy I know that is riding his BMW 650 from Prudhoe Bay to Tierra del Fuego Argentina. Mucho cool stuff!!

http://mytripjournal.com/jeremiahsjourney

[BajaTaco]

Here is an interesting site about a guy I know that is riding his BMW 650 from Prudhoe Bay to Tierra del Fuego Argentina. Mucho cool stuff!!

http://mytripjournal.com/jeremiahsjourney

Excellent! Thanks for the link :coffee:

[mountainpete]

Hi Guys...

Here's a good chance to jump into adventure riding head first...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2004-BMW-R1150GS-Adventure-Loaded_W0QQitemZ4580062558QQcategoryZ49977QQrdZ1QQ cmdZViewItem

Scott??? :elkgrin:

[lionsbreath]

A KLR 650 has a range of around 300 miles a bit better then the BMW thatis on the stock 6.2 gal tank there is a after market tank that adds another .5gal to the hold and gives you another 25 plus miles. Both the BMW and the KLR 650s' have a big following but the KLR has a larger after market and better price tag. :coffee: Here are some KLR photos

[lionsbreath]

Nice GS Can't beat shaft drive always better then a chain.

[+ d]

I can't believe the KTM's aren't getting more love in this discussion...

http://baldy.smugmug.com/photos/3321363-M.jpg

When i was getting into bikes they seemed much more dirt oriented than the BMW's, especially the 640adv vs the F650. i wanted a smaller bike and the f650's surging and stalling issues scared me away. the 640adv seemed the 'perfect' adventure bike for me, in fact I had a deposit on one of the last new 640 adventures around (ktm no longer imports them) and then...our car died. we bought a jeep and haven't looked back.

[+ d]

...not that bmw guys aren't cool :eek:
http://baldy.smugmug.com/photos/206612-L-1.jpg

[lionsbreath]

HIgh dollar But nice I looked at KTMs' as well

[mountainpete]

There is a nice 950 Adventure at my local dealership... but I admit my love is biased towards Bimmers :hehe:

[Alpinestar]

i know a bit(im not trying to brag) about motorcycles and offroad bikes. and this sounds like a really cool idea i would reccomend a honda xr bike, now they may not have all those fancy compartments but they can kick butt on the trail
not to mention they can climb anything. you will get good traction and very good torque with an xr preferibly above a 250 cc :archaeolo

[riverguide]

Great discussion

What appeals to me most about the bike is the efficiency in which you can travel. Unless the trail is really rocky, a bike can travel at nearly twice the speed, and not really be pushing it.

I will probably build one at some point, but most likely after the sailboat...

Just let me know Scott when you get that sailboat done. I'll gladly quite everything and join you for a sail..especially if u go around the globe or up the coast. That's definitely a goal of mine...biking..I'd rather ride a bicycle across dirt roads than a motorcycle :) But then again, I'm really weird.

[Scott Brady]

Not much, but a start: https://www.expeditionexchange.com/adventuremotorcycling/

[freightdog]

Long Way Round -

I am getting to this discussion kinda late -

But I was so glad to see that you all thought they were a coupla complainers - the book lost my interest about half way through...

I now understand why the Brits lost their guns -

I would hate to go through life scared -

So, while I thought it was just me being a dick - glad you all thought they were a coupla whiners...

[ErrinV]

Just found this thread. Here's a couple of my pics.

My GS loaded for a trip in Kernville last year.

http://errinv.smugmug.com/photos/20203367-M.jpg

Same trip

http://errinv.smugmug.com/photos/20409862-M.jpg

The KTM 640 at the Barker Ranch in Death Valley

http://errinv.smugmug.com/photos/54401001-M.jpg

My pop on his Ural Patrol

http://errinv.smugmug.com/photos/26269889-M.jpg


Errin

[mountainpete]

Nice GS :victory:

I would love some details on what you take along for tools and spare parts on long trips (e.g. 21 days or longer)...

[ErrinV]

Nice GS :victory:

I would love some details on what you take along for tools and spare parts on long trips (e.g. 21 days or longer)...

I haven't gone on anything that long to give you any good real world experience. On the BMW I don't really have to carry that much as far as spares go. I'm mostly on the road and not too far from anywhere that I could find what I need. I carry the tool kit, oil, tire plugs and a compressor. On the KTM I carry 2 tubes, a pump, CO2 cartridges and stock tool kit. I plan on adding a bit more to that. Things like a spare links, chain tool, lube, more wrenches/sockets etc.

Most important are lots of water, layer clothing, cell-phone (satellite phone preffered), and the GPS.

Errin

[mountainpete]

Thanks Errin... what kind of compressor do you carry?

I carry a tire patch kit along with CO2 on my BMW cruiser, but I like the idea of a compressor with a GS. Got to love direct drive as well - no need for chain parts or lube!

[ErrinV]

Thanks Errin... what kind of compressor do you carry?

I carry an Airman Sparrow. (http://www.adventurersworkshop.com/sparrow.htm) It has a dual plug that fits a regular cigarette lighter and the stock BMW (Powerlet) plug.

This is a great resource. AdventurersWorkshop. (http://www.adventurersworkshop.com/)

If you don't have a Powerlet plug on your bike, you can get one here. (http://www.powerletproducts.com/)

Errin

[mountainpete]

Thanks for the links ;)

I was looking at this pump as well: http://bestrestproducts.com/celestia/products/cyclepump/ It's the one GlobeRiders uses on their Africa trips. Pricey - but it has a long duty cycle and is quite light.

[ErrinV]

Thanks for the links ;)

I was looking at this pump as well: http://bestrestproducts.com/celestia/products/cyclepump/ It's the one GlobeRiders uses on their Africa trips. Pricey - but it has a long duty cycle and is quite light.


That's a good one too. It's just alot more expensive.

Errin

[Doin_It]

Hey -

So here are a couple of sites that I feel are really good that cover the topic of motorcycle travel. The first one does cover 4x4's also. The info on travel/visas/shipping etc. is really good. Plus all of the different stories of people out there travelling. IMHO the best motorcyle travel web site out there.

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/

The second covers travel within the U.S. of A. (mostly west coast). He's also done a great job of giving tons of links to everthing motorbikes.

http://www.pashnit.com/

These others are just guys out there biking the world over. The second link(aedst) is a good story of a 2 on a Ural/sidecar covering Africa. Good story telling all the tales of the parts needed, break downs, etc.

http://www.contrast.cx/
http://www.aedst.org/~mullie/
http://www.geocities.com/bikebrothers/index.html
http://africa.hareti.co.uk/

Then there is the grand daddy of them all Peter Forwood, who did the world on his Harley. Seeing the third bike in my garage is a Harley, and I grew up in West Africa, hats off to this guy, cause I know what he must of gone through in the sands of the west, on a heavy bike with a rider on the back. I I love the Harley, but I would have used my Honda 650 out there

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/forwood/index.shtml

[mountainpete]

Great links - I love Horizons...

You from Calgary too? Nice to see more Canadians on here. :shakin:

[Scott Brady]

Doin-it,

Thanks for the great links

[Colorado Ron]

Well thanks guys! After reading this thread a month or so ago, I really got the itch to get a bike again! I found a good deal on an older BMW Airhead ST. (street version of the GS). I packed it down and been riding ever since. The jeep and other 4x4s havent left the garage since I got the bike! I just love it. Put 3k miles on it already and try to ride it everyday, minus snow days!:arabia:

[colvere]

I am looking to by a new trail bike and have looked at the BMW and have an opportunity to buy a fully prepped 06 KLR for around $4100 with all the Happy-trails.com goodies. But I am kind of leaning to the new KLX250s, it’s not a long hauler but I am very short ride from mountain and desert trails. The Guys at happy-trails are already developing panniers for one. You could add a big bore kit and I am sure af seats will be available soon, so it could eventually run longer stretches. It has a six speed transmission that helps with its on road manners.

[flyingwil]

I am sure most of you know of horizons unlimited, but is is a great resource for motorcycle travels.

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/newsletter/images2005/2005-06_Heggstad_LongNeckgirlsmeettheViking.jpg

[ErrinV]

I am sure most of you know of horizons unlimited, but is is a great resource for motorcycle travels.

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/newsletter/images2005/2005-06_Heggstad_LongNeckgirlsmeettheViking.jpg


Hey there's Glen! His book is worth reading if you haven't yet. Two Wheels Through Terror. (http://store.yahoo.com/guilty-net/twowhthte.html) Here's is current trip here. (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41699) This is a long thread, but worth it.

Errin

[Hltoppr]

Glen has a 300 page write up on Adventure Rider (advrider.com) and will be coming back to the States here pretty soon.

There's a "welcome home" party in TJ and San Diego too....nothing like a bunch of riders taking on TJ Mexico....

Hmm....I might find myself there!

-H-

[ErrinV]

There's a "welcome home" party in TJ and San Diego too....nothing like a bunch of riders taking on TJ Mexico....

Hmm....I might find myself there!

-H-

I've been watching the thread and may try to go if I can. Sounds like it'll be a blast.

Errin

[Hltoppr]

Throw some TKC 80s or Tourances on the S, add a bit of oil pan protection and it'll be a nice touring BM!

I can only imagine how TJ could get out of hand for Glen's shindig...:jumping:

-H-

[Scott Brady]

What are manufacturers doing to address the payload requirements of expedition riders? In my case, I am 6'1" and 230lbs. That already cuts into the payload. It appears that frame damage is common in many bikes.

Who makes the most robust solution (not necessarily the best performing). I.E., who is the Toyota Land Cruiser 70 series of expedition motorcycles?

[ErrinV]

I think you'll find as many answers to that as there are riders. Seems like alot of people like the the Airhead BMW's for their simplicity. Glen is riding around the world on the BMW 650GS, but previously had a KLR650. There's a husband/wife on a R1150GS and a 650GS. There's also a couple on the KTM 640s. Guess it depends on the type of riding you like to do and how much you want to pack. The beemers are better for sticking to the pavement, where the KLR/KTM might be better off the beaten path.

As far as weight goes, the best thing to do would be to upgrade your suspension. Usually when you get it built they take into account rider weight, type of roads you intend to ride and amount of weight you plan on carrying. As long as you can keep most of your luggage as close to the passenger area as possible you should be ok. I just wouldn't carry more than the weight of an average person back there. That gives you at least 150 pounds to deal with, which should be more then enough.

Errin

[Hltoppr]

Scott,

I know how you feel. As mentioned, Ohlins and Progressive both make suspension upgrades for the BMWs. I've so far failed to kill the stock rear shock on mine, but an Ohlins tuned for my riding/gear weight is in the future.

Additionally, if you're really going to flog the thing, rear subframe bracing is needed on virtually every make and model of expedition bike, from a Honda XRL to a BMW 1200GS...

My gear is pretty light, as I try to stick to a "fastpacking" mentality to reduce weight. My tool kit and spares is more extensive, as well as my water supply (minimum of 160oz.). Add 1/2 gallon of fuel and 2 Qts. of oil...

BTW, there's a nice 1995 1100GS in Prescott...$5500....hint, hint. ;)

-H-

[Hltoppr]

O' most "robust" solution...

I'm biased, but the R80/R100GSs are incredible....

I'm tearing the engine apart on mine, just to baseline everything, and the more I dig into these things, the more amazed I become....

They're tanks!

-H-

[Colorado Ron]

I really love my BMW airhead. Just got back from a hundred mile "quick trip". So much fun. I need to take the top off the jeep and really compare. I just cant imagine the jeep being as much fun as the bike. Just somethin about riding VS driving.

[underdog]

Hi. Just wanted to chime in on this thread. I'm new here but I, like Hltoppr, am biased towards the BMW R80/100GS models. I've been touring on my R80GS for 7 years/50K+miles now and it's a really sturdy and reliable bike. Just love it. I've gone through the same mental argument with myself so many times that I'm sick of it and I'll continue to do it for as long as I ride. Dual sports bikes are by nature a compromise. Something like a 400 or 650 enduro is just a ton of fun for off road, sandy, muddy, hill climbing, power sliding, woo-hoo, tearing it up. And you can load 'em up with bags and gear but, when you need something that's going to carry your (my) 200+ pound fat *** plus enough gear and parts to get you through a multi-thousand mile trip, you just need a bigger and more powerful bike. That plus the fact that, like it or not, any single cylinder thumper is just going to get fatigueing and buzzy if you've gotta do a few hundred or even a thousand miles of highway to get to your destination. There's just no perfect bike out there. I think the early BMW GS bikes are as close as it gets. The new KTMs are pretty damn close too. I met a guy in Baja last year on a KTM 950 who said he used to ride a BMW 1150GS. He said he loved 'em both for very different reasons. He said the KTM was more nimble and capable in serious offroad situations and was great for a few days out, but for more serious, long distance, many-days-in-the-saddle adventure touring the BMW was the better bike. Based on my BMW experience, I'd tend to agree with him.

[Hltoppr]

Just for comparison, I could hardly sit down after doing 1500 miles through baja on my Honda XR650L....can you say "monkey butt?"

-H-

[BajaTaco]

Cool!

A few years ago, Ursidae69 and I ran into a couple named Simon and Monika in Baja - riding BMWs. R1150GS I believe. They were from Europe and working on the BMW Ultimate Adventure and Guinness World Records - not sure what ever happened, their website - www.spiritsofadventure.com (http://www.spiritsofadventure.com/) - doesn't seem to be working.



Looks like the website is working now. A quote from the new 2006 home page...

Guinness World Record Success for Monika

Monika Newbound is the new Endurance Enduro Guinness World Record Holder. Her Journey started in May 2002 and to date has featured 54 countries, 182,000 Kilometers (121,000 miles) and one and a half circumnavigations of the earth. Monika understand the meaning of endeavor, the reality of sacrifice and the joy of success - She is without question, and in the true sense of the word a "Spirit of Adventure"

That just friggin' rocks :clapsmile

Scott, seems like these two have made a testament to the "robust" factor. They say they are still riding the same two BMW bikes after 121,000 miles around the world.

[ErrinV]

Just for comparison, I could hardly sit down after doing 1500 miles through baja on my Honda XR650L....can you say "monkey butt?"

-H-

Yeah, the KTM doesn't even come close to the BMW for long distances. A pair of these (http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/item.aspx?style=19013&department=266&division=2) help though. Along with my new seat.:luxhello:

http://errinv.smugmug.com/photos/61802420-M.jpg

[dhackney]

This is a real irony. I'm on this forum researching overland 4x4 expeditions and end up in a bike thread that includes posts on sailing.

We spent a couple of years out around the world on various bikes. I spent the subsequent year gearing up to spend the next few on a sailboat circumnavigating and am now on a panic prep for extended overland 4x4 travel because my wife unexpectedly nixed the sailboat.

I've been riding motorcycles for about 40 years, including all sizes and types of dirt, enduro/dual sport, road race, sport bikes, standards and vintage. Our last remaining bike after selling off the collection is a 2004 BMW GS1150 Adventure. We're looking to go back out to explore in a LC 100. In sailing terms, we're moving from a cruiser to a trawler. Our bike friends are aghast.

But anyway, back to the thread. I've ridden about every bike mentioned or pictured so far in this thread. I'd agree with the comments that there's no better way to travel than by bike, on or off road.

I'll try to answer some of the specific questions that have come up.

1. Many of the “what to pack, how to pack, what spare parts, how much weight, what about big guys, etc.” questions can be answered on our web site: http://www.hackneys.com/travel/ Look in the FAQ, Lessons Learned and Gear sections.
2. The "best bike" question is good for bench racing, but rarely yields much useful info for someone On The Quest once you get past the first few beers. For pure dirt work in Baja, it is just about impossible to beat the Hondas. KTM's increased reliability in recent years has put them into the hunt. The old saying used to be that KTM stood for Kan't Take Mexico. For dual sport (on and off road legal and capable) work in the 400-500cc range you just can't beat the Suzuki DRs, especially here in CA where they've clamped down on street licensing true dirt bikes. For large capacity bikes capable of carrying a big guy or a couple on long world exploration type travel, it is very hard to argue with BMW.
3. The best way to improve riding skills is to get training, and that includes road racing, street riding, dual sport, pure dirt or the big GS. Invest in yourself before you spend money on trick parts for the bike. Scott Harden has good offerings here in the US for rally/expedition type riding and Jimmy Lewis offers BMW specific courses. BMW has a school in Europe that some people I know attended and spoke highly of. If you want to be a better street rider, spend some time riding off-road. Your bike control will improve dramatically.
4. Aftermarket suspension that is specifically tuned for your fully packed travel load and riding style is the single best thing you can do for you and your bike.
5. Second best thing is a custom seat, cut and shaped to your body. The process will take a couple of days and will be the best two days investment of your riding lifetime.
6. The "Globeriders uses it" air pump is not your best choice. I know. I own one. It failed the one time I needed it riding offroad down the Continental Divide. We don't have any endorsement deals, don't receive or use free products, and don't ride free or reduced price bikes. We pay for everything. So if it's on our web site as an endorsed product or supplier, it’s because they have really earned that endorsement through lots of hard use in tough conditions, not due to other considerations. If it is listed in our current or past inventory and isn’t on the “recommended” list, you know why.
7. As a friend of mine who works at HQ of one of the big Japanese brands says, "everybody makes good product these days." Materials science, systems design and quality control have improved dramatically in motorcycles during the last couple of decades. A lot of the pissing matches people get into over brand X vs. brand Y are not justified by the differences in the products. Not to say there aren’t' some real stinkers foisted on the public, but there are fewer of them than there used to be.
8. The KTM 950 is a better choice if you are a good dirt rider or plan to spend most of your time in challenging off-road riding. The big BMW GS is a better choice if you will spend most of your time on pavement or fire roads. Neither is a real dirt bike.
9. You and your bike will last longer if you ride within your abilities and the design envelope of the machine. My biggest problem on dirt bikes is my velocity consistently exceeds my abilities. Less so as I get older and heal slower. I took our GS1150 down the continental divide with a couple of guys on two Suzuki 400 DRS (true street legal dual sport model). While that ride did convince me that there really is something to this whole BMW thing, there is no doubt that during the border to border off-road sections the other two guys had more fun and had the perfect bikes. Yes, it is true our GS miraculously did not explode from the abuse I dished out, but it was really a lot of work horsing that big thing down those trails at speed.
10. The biggest downside to traveling by bike is the need for nightly accommodations and eating every meal in a restaurant or picnic. These are the reasons we were moving to a sailboat, so we'd have our bed and galley with us, and the reasons we are moving to a 4x4.
11. The biggest upside to traveling by bike is the factor mentioned earlier in the thread. A bike is non-threatening and an instant ice-breaker. It didn't matter if we were pulling into the remotest village in Africa or up to the curb in downtown Tokyo, everybody had a bike story and they wanted to share it with us. Our greatest fear is that by sealing ourselves off in an LC we will become just another four wheeler full of rich people behind glass, and we'll lose that instant camaraderie and acceptance by locals worldwide.
12. If you are traveling 2-up, do not leave home without an intercom. It will not only save your kidneys from getting rabbit punched every time you drag the pegs, it also opens up an entirely new way to experience 2-up travel and the sport.
13. If you are traveling to developing / 3rd world nations, get a high beam flasher and a brake light strobe and use them. Increase your visibility to others in every possible way you can. I could not begin to count the number of times crashes were avoided by these measures.
14. World travel by motorcycle is easier than you might think. Start small with a local trip. Then go to an easy foreign place like Europe or down to Baja (but not during the Summer when it’s hot). Then head out and see what the world is really like.
15. The LWR guys are total posers. Going out with free bikes, free gear, a film crew, a 24 hour team of support people back in London and flying in BMW factory techs to fix your bike is not the reality you will face. They have zero credibility in my eyes. If I meet them on a back road having tea in a tiny village, passing out candy to kids or helping a local fix his hand pump, with no film crew recording the precious moment, no publicist cranking up the buzz and no helicopters of factory techs hovering overhead, I will reconsider.

If you are interested in learning more about on- and off-road world travel by motorcycle you may find some useful information on our web site:
http://www.hackneys.com/travel/

http://www.hackneys.com/bike_web/baja98/graphics/cover.gif
Northern Baja California, Mexico

http://www.hackneys.com/hackney_web/graphics/02/01-January/NewZealand/Day4/Dsc02785.jpg
New Zealand

http://www.hackneys.com/travel/Africa/africa-photos/DSCN6663-crop-45-web.jpg
Caprivi Strip, Namibia

http://www.hackneys.com/travel/DSCN5875-crop-6-web.jpg
Himalayas, Sikkim, India

http://www.hackneys.com/travel/Bhutan/bhutan-photos/Bhutan_Album/images/image067.jpg
Bhutan

http://www.hackneys.com/travel/Turkey/image008.jpg
Aydin, Turkey

http://www.hackneys.com/travel/Syria/syria-photos/Syria_Album_06/images/image001.jpg
Entering Syria

http://www.hackneys.com/travel/CDR/IMG_1235-web.jpg
Red Rock Pass

http://www.hackneys.com/travel/japan/image014.jpg
Southern Japan

http://www.hackneys.com/travel/china/china-photos/China_Album_09/images/image137.jpg
Great Wall of China. Huangyaguan (Yellow Cliff Pass), China

[Scott Brady]

Absolutely fantastic post Douglas, and greatly appreciated.

At this moment, I am leaning more towards the BMW650 Dakar than any other bike. I would prefer to sacrifice road manners for improved dirt performance.

And now that you have shared so much on the bikes, how can we help you prepare the UZJ100? I have travelled with several well built examples.

[dhackney]

At this moment, I am leaning more towards the BMW650 Dakar than any other bike. I would prefer to sacrifice road manners for improved dirt performance.
If I had been riding solo, I would have been on a GS650. We rode one 2-up in New Zealand. Great little bike. BTW, we just saw Glen last Sunday and his is holding up well.

You won't be making much of a sacrifice in road manners. You need dirt capable tires (street speed capable knobbies) to do any serious exploration anyway. By the time you put a capable suspension and decent tires under the non-Dakar model, you're in Dakar territory.


And now that you have shared so much on the bikes, how can we help you prepare the UZJ100? I have travelled with several well built examples.
We could certainly use some help! We know so little, we can barely spell LC. But I don't want to hijaack this thread. I'll plead for charity, mercy and some crumbs of knowledge and experience with a fresh post over in that forum. :)

[mountainpete]

Douglas, I just spent the last few hours reviewing your site and adventures - simply amazing! Thanks so much for posting!

[Hltoppr]

Welcome aboard Douglas! It's great to have you here, as we can all learn muy mucho from your travels! (I really liked the section on staying married on a trip!) ;) :rolleyes:

I missed SVfest, as my bike is being rebuilt at the time being...glad to hear it was a good time, Glen almost feels like family, as I've been following him for the last 5 years!

-H-

[ChuckB]

I can just see it now, "Honey I know we have the Cruiser, but everyone is riding motorcycles now too..."

[dhackney]

To ease potential marital friction related to "we spent all that money on the Taco/LC/bike(s) and one (or more) are just sitting there," here are some options for taking the bike along. Some of these won't be applicable to the relatively light chassis of the Taco or LC:

Advanced Recreational Products (http://www.arpatv.com/index2.html)

Blue Ox (http://www.blueox.us/Carriers/MC1.htm)

C5A Heavy Lift Moto Carrier (http://www.motorcycle-carriers.net/motorcycle_carrier_c5a.html)

Overbuilt Lifts (http://www.overbiltlifts.com/)

Motorcycle Ramps.Com (http://www.hnet.net/~mas/motorcycle_racer.htm)

Discount Ramps (http://www.discountramps.com/motorcycle_ramps.htm)

Pak Rak (http://www.pak-rak.com/)

RV Lifts of America (http://www.rvlifts.com/)

RV Motorcycle & Cargo Trailer - this is a design worth looking at if you could modify the suspension for the intended use. (http://www.motorcyclecarrier.net/rv_motorcycle_trailer.html)

Fast Master Single Wheel Trailer - similar design to above (http://www.cruiserlift.com/swivelwheel.html)

TK Loader - good option for big bikes and big rigs (http://www.tkloader.com/motorcycle/)

TK Loader Implementation on a class 8 truck (http://community.webshots.com/album/146009838YWetGA)

Hydra Lift (http://www.hydralift-usa.com/)

[Hltoppr]

I can just see it now, "Honey I know we have the Cruiser, but everyone is riding motorcycles now too..."

Take her along two up!

-H-

[ChuckB]

Take her along two up!

-H-

I plan on it!!! Once I get my Cruiser straightened out, that will be my next project. First someone's has to teach me how to ride though :bowdown:

[dhackney]

First someone's has to teach me how to ride though :bowdown:

Start here with an MSF course:
Motorcycle Safety Foundation (http://www.msf-usa.org/) These courses will get you license qualified and reduce your insurance costs.

Spend some time on the street, concentrate on back roads and rural areas to build up seat time. Work yourself up to an MSF Experienced Rider course.

The MSF path will teach you the basics on staying alive in a world of four wheeled vehicles.


For really learning the capabilities of motorcycles and yourself, these are good resources:

Street riding training:
Even if you plan to ride an LT or Gold Wing, it is an excellent idea to learn how a bike handles on the fringes of the friction circle, counter steering techniques, maximum braking, skid control, etc. Highly recommended if you plan to ride on the street.

Keith Code Superbike School (http://www.superbikeschool.com/)

Reg Pridmore's CLASS moto school (http://www.classrides.com/)


Off Road training:
Nothing will make you a better rider than spending time in the dirt. Learning how a bike feels with both ends sliding, how to handle off camber climbs up goat trails, etc. are essential skills that will serve you well under any riding conditions on any road surface.

Danny Walker's American Supercamp (http://www.americansupercamp.com/) This is an excellent experience that will teach you how to control a bike in a full opposite lock slide at race speeds. Excellent team of professional trainers along with guest racer-superstars that are fun to rub elbows with (in more ways than one).

Jimmy Lewis offroad riding school (http://www.jimmylewisoffroad.com) Jimmy is the real deal on the BMW GS line of bikes. Not just a pretender, he's a real off-road racer who is fully capable on any platform and magic on the big beast GS.

Scott Harden Off Road (http://www.harden-offroad.com/) Scott is a world-class championship rally rider and runs the KTM USA marketing and racing programs. Based on real-world experience & techniques, this school is a great experience for anyone seeking real off-road rally, racing and adventure travel skills & capabilities.


Just for fun:
On One Wheel - wheelie school (http://www.ononewheel.com/) This school is well run, professional, uses quality gear and is a great way to have a fun day and pick up some riding skills along the way.


The most important thing is to invest in yourself before you invest in modifying the bike. Pay for professional training before you buy a single go-fast or must-have-do-dad for your bike.

[Scott Brady]

Doug,

Thanks for the detailed posts. We have much to learn from you in this area for sure :beer:

[ChuckB]

Doug, I second that, thanks for the info!! I will definitely read up on it and take the courses when the time is right.

[Hltoppr]

I have to concur that the MSF Basic Rider Course is almost mandatory for street survival. I would recommend that every beginning rider, or re-entry rider take the course.

-H-

[ErrinV]

Here's another class to consider. TRIALS!! (http://www.itstrials.com/) I just took a class for the first time on Saturday and I'm hooked. Just concentrated on balancing and slow speed drills. I learned alot in a very short time and I feel like a much better rider after just a couple of hours.


Errin

[lionsbreath]

Wow I haven't been on the sight for a few month and I have missed it I have been all consumed with my new toy MY 06 klr have had it 2 month and have already put over 2k on it in fact I park my truck and drive it most of the time now. Big gas saver here in the phoenix area @ 55+ mpg and its' large 6.1gal tank. I am getting the bike built up for a 4k mile trip in july to Tn. and back.

[jmeadows]

I've been patiently waiting for the US version. Why the hell does the US have a different version DVD than the rest of the world anyway?? I'm almost ready to break down and buy the Pal format and watch it on my computer at work! Glad to hear you liked it, I'm really looking forward to it.

Not sure if this has been mentioned already, however NTSC (US and Canada) formats are available for this DVD, just not off the LWR website. Also allot of DVD players are compatible with both systems so if you have bought yours in the past year or 2 , double check.
For example:

http://www.amazon.com/Long-Way-Round-Ewan-Mcgregor/dp/B000BOH99A/sr=8-1/qid=1160446700/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-4700190-3830402?ie=UTF8&s=dvd

[Blair G]

Not sure if this has been mentioned already, however NTSC (US and Canada) formats are available for this DVD, just not off the LWR website. Also allot of DVD players are compatible with both systems so if you have bought yours in the past year or 2 , double check.
For example:

http://www.amazon.com/Long-Way-Round-Ewan-Mcgregor/dp/B000BOH99A/sr=8-1/qid=1160446700/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-4700190-3830402?ie=UTF8&s=dvd

I got mine fairlly soon after the series aired. My DVD has both formats and I ordered my discs from the UK Amazon. Looked to be fun adventure both of them.
Blair ( Who's GSA is waiting for him in the garage)

[Hltoppr]

The NA format disk is out now. Try www.aerostich.com for a copy. Well worth the $20.00

-H-

[Scenic WonderRunner]

Hey......

I know this is way off topic.

But I just found the perfect little avatar thingy for you riders!

Here goes nuffin' ...............http://s3.amazonaws.com/advrider/ricky.gif






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