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Suzuki V-Strom 650A XP - Interesting version in UK
Suzuki's UK site is showing off a new Xpedition (XP) variant of the popular V-Strom. This Strom is based on the standard ABS-equipped 650 V-Strom, but includes a number of accessories to make it more "adventure tourer" capable.
Suzuki describes it as their new flagship model. It comes equipped with black aluminum panniers with a total capacity of 82 liters (21.7 gallons), engine and hand guards, an aluminum sump guard, and a center stand.
No word on whether this model will come to other markets but it doesn't appear to be anything you couldn't build yourself with a few aftermarket parts.
Suzuki describes it as their new flagship model. It comes equipped with black aluminum panniers with a total capacity of 82 liters (21.7 gallons), engine and hand guards, an aluminum sump guard, and a center stand.
No word on whether this model will come to other markets but it doesn't appear to be anything you couldn't build yourself with a few aftermarket parts.
Comments
Triumph Adventure website
Triumph has been "leaking" photo's and information on their two forthcoming 2011 adventure models - one biased towards pavement going adventures while the other will be a little more off-road capable.
Rumor is it will be aimed squarely at taking some share away from the market of BMW's F800 GS.
All I can say is - I hope it's awesome! A really great 800cc triple might be a bike I'd be interested in. It'll take something pretty special to get me off my VFR800 though.
Follow along via the website they're gradually releasing information to. The link is HERE.
Rumor is it will be aimed squarely at taking some share away from the market of BMW's F800 GS.
All I can say is - I hope it's awesome! A really great 800cc triple might be a bike I'd be interested in. It'll take something pretty special to get me off my VFR800 though.
Follow along via the website they're gradually releasing information to. The link is HERE.
An evening with Simon Pavey - Off-Road guru
Duncan Motorsports and Kickstart Coffee are pleased to sponsor:
”An Evening with Simon Pavey” Friday July 30, 2010.
Simon Pavey, 6 time Dakar Rally competitor, trainer of Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor for their TV series "Long Way Round", and co-star of the documentary "Charley Boorman Race To Dakar" will be returning to Duncan.
Simon will be hosting a special viewing of excerpts of “Race to Dakar” TV series, a talk on riding motorcycles in the historic Dakar rallies in Africa and Argentina and a question and answer session.
Due to overwhelming response we have moved the venue to:
Island Savings Center
2687 James Street
Duncan BC.
Start time is 7:00 PM.
This is an event that should not be missed by any motorcycling or travel enthusiast !
There is a small event charge of $10. Tickets are available at the door or at Duncan Motorsports, 1063 Canada Ave, Duncan BC phone 1-866-746-2453
Simon Pavey - that's this guy:
”An Evening with Simon Pavey” Friday July 30, 2010.
Simon Pavey, 6 time Dakar Rally competitor, trainer of Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor for their TV series "Long Way Round", and co-star of the documentary "Charley Boorman Race To Dakar" will be returning to Duncan.
Simon will be hosting a special viewing of excerpts of “Race to Dakar” TV series, a talk on riding motorcycles in the historic Dakar rallies in Africa and Argentina and a question and answer session.
Due to overwhelming response we have moved the venue to:
Island Savings Center
2687 James Street
Duncan BC.
Start time is 7:00 PM.
This is an event that should not be missed by any motorcycling or travel enthusiast !
There is a small event charge of $10. Tickets are available at the door or at Duncan Motorsports, 1063 Canada Ave, Duncan BC phone 1-866-746-2453
Simon Pavey - that's this guy:
BMW Motorrad Canada is pleased to be supporting the MOTORESS Alpine Ride for female riders, taking place in Bavaria, Germany from July 24 through July 31, 2010.
Celebrating a very special event for women motorcyclists, two prominent worldwide motorcycle organisations have come together on a special joint venture for female riders, supported by BMW Motorrad Canada.
Celebrating a very special event for women motorcyclists, two prominent worldwide motorcycle organisations have come together on a special joint venture for female riders, supported by BMW Motorrad Canada.
From July 24 through 31, 2010, fourteen women, drawn from Canadian female motorcycle enthusiasts with ages from 29 through 65, with one participant from Newfoundland and one from California, will be riding through Austrian Alpine scenic roads with the founder of MOTORESS™ and International Female Ride Day, Vicki Gray.Vicki will be supported by Helene Boyer, a seasoned motorcyclist and the french–language communications manager of MOTORESS™.
The 80-day excursion will see 14 women taking part in a breathtaking journey beginning in BMW’s home town, Munich, taking riders through some of the most beautiful cities in Austria such as Salzburg and Kaprun. For many of the participants, it is the first time that they have experienced riding in Europe on the spectacular roads and mountain passes of Bavaria and Austria.
“I am thrilled to be a part of this tour and to facilitate an exceptional motorcycle experience for an exclusive group of women”, says Vicki Gray. “For the participant, it is a unique occasion to participate in a motorcycle touring experience on motorcycles inspired and developed in one of Europe’s most beautiful motorcycling paradises. “We are truly offering a unique tour that will be enjoyed by all in a female friendly environment with MOTORESS™ and of course the Edelweiss Canadian representative Farewell Travel!” she adds.
The riders will cover about 1,300 km in total through Germany’s lake regions and Austria’s winding Alpine roads on BMW motorcycles; approximately 80 to 280 km each day. Highlights of the tour include visiting King Ludwig's castle in Herrenchiemsee and Salzburg, Mozart's birth town.
“This tour is a perfect complement to the increase of women motorcyclists participating on an Edelweiss Bike Tour”, states Nigel Andrews President of Farewell Travel Service. “We feel this tour allows women a chance to have a female-only adventure, and to meet and mingle with other avid female motorcyclists. Vicki Gray, a true professional in the motorcycling world for over 25 years, brings a special dimension to this all-female event” adds Nigel.
With an original target of nine participants, this year’s fourteen-strong team proves the appeal of female-only motorcycling events and Edelweiss Tours is already planning for a follow-up event in 2011.
For more information on the Alpine Tour, please visit MOTORESS.ca.
“This tour is a perfect complement to the increase of women motorcyclists participating on an Edelweiss Bike Tour”, states Nigel Andrews President of Farewell Travel Service. “We feel this tour allows women a chance to have a female-only adventure, and to meet and mingle with other avid female motorcyclists. Vicki Gray, a true professional in the motorcycling world for over 25 years, brings a special dimension to this all-female event” adds Nigel.
With an original target of nine participants, this year’s fourteen-strong team proves the appeal of female-only motorcycling events and Edelweiss Tours is already planning for a follow-up event in 2011.
For more information on the Alpine Tour, please visit MOTORESS.ca.
BMW Motorrad GS Trophy 2010. Adventure, sports and competition in South Africa
Two years ago, BMW Motorrad held its first ever international GS Trophy event in Tunisia, where BMW GS riders from Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan and the USA met up in Africa for a week of adventure riding, special tests, teamwork challenges and problem solving – all designed around having fun, getting back to nature and enjoying this iconic genre of adventure motorcycle.
With the legendary BMW GS Enduro celebrating its 30th birthday in 2010, BMW Motorrad is planning a bigger BMW GS Trophy event for this year, which will take place from November 13th to November 21st in South Africa, Swaziland and Mozambique – surely some of the best places in the world to ride a BMW GS motorcycle. The winners of the 2008 BMW GS Trophy – the USA – have already confirmed their participation, along with teams from Spain, Italy, Japan, Scandinavia, Germany, the UK, South Africa and Canada.
Indeed, the planning for November has already started in the above countries, which are all launching their own series of national BMW GS challenges in order to find the best team of riders to represent their country at this prestigious event.
According to BMW Motorrad’s GS Trophy organiser Michael Trammer, November’s South African BMW GS Trophy adventure is definitely not a race, as hard work, technical riding skills, camaraderie and team spirit will be the most important elements for overall success:
“Our first International BMW GS Trophy was held in 2008 in Tunisia and this event was designed to give amateurs with off-road experience the opportunity to take part in a large-scale enduro competition,” says Michael Trammer. “The lucky ones that were selected from the national trials were invited to spend ten unforgettable days in the Tunisian desert, where they faced tough challenges which often pushed them to the limits of their capacity.”“For 2010, we’re looking to ensure that the finalists of this year’s BMW GS Trophy are of a comparable standard, so although the national qualifying rounds will have their own distinctive character, there will be a series of tests that correspond to a standardised level throughout the world. This will help ensure that none of the finalists of the BMW GS Trophy 2010 are faced with challenges that are insurmountable or even dangerous. It’s our desire that whatever the final result will be, each participant will get to experience something they will never forget – ultimately, there will be no losers, as just to be selected to represent your country in South Africa in the best possible way is a significant achievement.”
All the national qualifying events are following a similar structure and the top three in each country will be selected to take part in the final event in South Africa. Nine nations have already confirmed their participation at the 2010 BMW GS Trophy in November and there are possibly more to come. This unforgettable event will see some of the best amateur off-road riders from Europe, Japan, Canada and the USA meet up at the country that is hosting this year’s FIFA World Cup, for around eight days of adventure riding and team building in spectacular terrain.
HDT Diesel motorcycle - Fall 2010 release
We've told you about the Hayes Diversified Technologies diesel motorcycle before but something interesting is afoot!
HDT have been making diesel motorcycles for the military for several years now and haven't had the capacity to produce bikes for the US Marines and civilian use. It looks like times have changed and they have a sign up to be placed on a waiting list for a Fall 2010 release. The bike is called the AT-1 and it features a single cylinder 670cc diesel engine.
The AT-1 starts with a KLR 650 as a mule bike with a very efficient diesel engine into it. How efficient? How does 105 miles per gallon sound? It'll also reach speeds of up to 95 miles per hour.
It won't be really cheap ($16,900 USD + tax & shipping) but it could be just the ticket if you're into adventure touring and want something that's going to be very reliable and will go as far as 1,030 km's between fill ups.
Some other interesting specs:
Power 36 PS @ 5700 RPM:
Torque 58 Nm (43 ft-lbs) @ 3300 RPM
Transmission: 5‐speed, constant mesh
Curb weight: 203 kg (447 lbs)
Colors: Black/Silver or Silver/Black
For more details check out HDT's website HERE.
Follow a Canadian at the Dakar
Patrick Trahan is a Canadian hailing from Montreal. He's doing something that many people have have tried but relatively very few have done - he's going to compete in the Dakar on a motorcycle.
His number is #153 so keep an eye on the TV coverage for him.
His number is #153 so keep an eye on the TV coverage for him. His bike looks fantastic! Good luck Patrick! We'll be watching and rooting for you.
* Photo courtesy Patrick Trahan's Blog
Rally Connex Adventure Tours 2010 Dacre Dual Sport Challenge Announcement
Off-road riders rejoice! The Paris to Dacre off-road race is on again for 2010. Better sign up early because this event it POPULAR!
Press Release:
A date has been confirmed for the 2010 Dacre Dual Sport Challenge. Mark your calendars for June 25-27.
Online registration will open March 6th for teams with a minimum of one team member who has taken part in a previous Dacre event. Registration will open to the general public on March 20th.
Teams must be comprised of three to five members ONLY. Teams will not be recognized until all members have registered and paid via paypal. (Team Captains can register and pay for all team members if desired)
Rally Connex reserves the right to close registration without prior warning, so register early to avoid disappointment.
Note: The 2008 event sold out in 12 hours!
Details will soon be available on www.rallyconnex.com plus discussion forums on www.odsc.on.ca and www.advrider.com
Press Release:
A date has been confirmed for the 2010 Dacre Dual Sport Challenge. Mark your calendars for June 25-27.
Online registration will open March 6th for teams with a minimum of one team member who has taken part in a previous Dacre event. Registration will open to the general public on March 20th.
Teams must be comprised of three to five members ONLY. Teams will not be recognized until all members have registered and paid via paypal. (Team Captains can register and pay for all team members if desired)
Rally Connex reserves the right to close registration without prior warning, so register early to avoid disappointment.
Note: The 2008 event sold out in 12 hours!
Details will soon be available on www.rallyconnex.com plus discussion forums on www.odsc.on.ca and www.advrider.com
New video from VRide TV
Jeff over at VRideTV has a new high quality video posted and this one is something a little different than his usual. He still manages to get a little footage of him on his V-Rod crusing around in beautiful BC, but this time he also gets to become the passenger in a Cesna 172 plane.
He gets on board in Squamish and films during a flight to Whistler, British Columbia. The passenger door of the plane was removed for filming, allowing for an unobstructed view of the incredible scenery. It'll make you say "Wow!"
Some of the points of interest featured are, Stawamus Chief Provincial Park, Howe Sound, Lake Lovely Water, Tantalus Provincial Park, Black Tusk, Whistler Village, both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, the Barrier lava dam and Garibaldi Lake in Garibaldi Provincial Park.
Hope you enjoy!
Here's a link to the video below but don't forget to check out all Jeff's video's on VRideTV.
He gets on board in Squamish and films during a flight to Whistler, British Columbia. The passenger door of the plane was removed for filming, allowing for an unobstructed view of the incredible scenery. It'll make you say "Wow!"
Some of the points of interest featured are, Stawamus Chief Provincial Park, Howe Sound, Lake Lovely Water, Tantalus Provincial Park, Black Tusk, Whistler Village, both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, the Barrier lava dam and Garibaldi Lake in Garibaldi Provincial Park.
Hope you enjoy!
Here's a link to the video below but don't forget to check out all Jeff's video's on VRideTV.
Canadian - Don Hatton takes #4 spot in Morocco Rally
Don Hatton, Canada’s own international motorcycle racer has finished in fourth place in the Enduro class in the 2009 NPO Shamrock Rally de Maroc (Rally of Morocco).
The rally ran over six days, 2650 kilometers in total distance with nearly 2000 kilometers of that under race conditions. Through rock, sand, dunes the size of small office buildings and scorching heat in 40 degree Celsius range Don dug deep mentally and physically to complete the rally
These words from Don:
“I just could not overcome the time difference between myself and third place. The only way I could have caught him was for him to have a problem. I did catch up and pass him at one point in the Rally only to lose the gain when we hit a really rocky stretch forcing me to slow to a snails pace.”
“I am not disappointed with my finish in anyway, I had to really dig in and work to achieve what I did, my navigation went very well. I did make a couple of minor navigation errors but nothing serious, my only real problem in the Rally was the limits created by the lack of suspension on the stock KTM690 Enduro. I believe with better suspension I could have won my category.”
“I was a little caught off guard by the heat in stage 2 however after a short rest in the desert I recovered enough to finish well that day. After that I wore a few less Items of clothing. “
“In any case I did finish and finished in a respectable position. “
The rally ran over six days, 2650 kilometers in total distance with nearly 2000 kilometers of that under race conditions. Through rock, sand, dunes the size of small office buildings and scorching heat in 40 degree Celsius range Don dug deep mentally and physically to complete the rallyThese words from Don:
“I just could not overcome the time difference between myself and third place. The only way I could have caught him was for him to have a problem. I did catch up and pass him at one point in the Rally only to lose the gain when we hit a really rocky stretch forcing me to slow to a snails pace.”
“I am not disappointed with my finish in anyway, I had to really dig in and work to achieve what I did, my navigation went very well. I did make a couple of minor navigation errors but nothing serious, my only real problem in the Rally was the limits created by the lack of suspension on the stock KTM690 Enduro. I believe with better suspension I could have won my category.”
“I was a little caught off guard by the heat in stage 2 however after a short rest in the desert I recovered enough to finish well that day. After that I wore a few less Items of clothing. “
“In any case I did finish and finished in a respectable position. “
Comments (1)
Don Hatton finishes stage 4 of the 2009 Morocco Rally !
Don Hatton is still going strong after stage four of the 2009 Morocco Rally.
“Don had a good ride today” Natalie Hatton, Don’s wife, commented.
The race has been grueling. “ Rocks, rocks and more rocks” Don says. Stage 4 of the race was treacherous enough for the organizers to issue a warning to the racers regarding unmarked holes in the course.
Attrition among the competitors is rising. Don’s team mate and fellow Canadian rider Rick Hatswell is out of the race with a broken leg suffered during stage 3 of the rally. Another of his team mates David Dickinson is reported injured in stage 4 with a broken sternum.
Stage three’s extremely high heat along with the extensive racing in sand dunes caused Don to have heat stroke. Although it did not require medical attentions it caused a delay as he sought relief from the heat by using his KTM 690 for shade from the hot Moroccan sun. Don’s comment is “it was fun and challenging”
“Don had a good ride today” Natalie Hatton, Don’s wife, commented.
The race has been grueling. “ Rocks, rocks and more rocks” Don says. Stage 4 of the race was treacherous enough for the organizers to issue a warning to the racers regarding unmarked holes in the course.Attrition among the competitors is rising. Don’s team mate and fellow Canadian rider Rick Hatswell is out of the race with a broken leg suffered during stage 3 of the rally. Another of his team mates David Dickinson is reported injured in stage 4 with a broken sternum.
Stage three’s extremely high heat along with the extensive racing in sand dunes caused Don to have heat stroke. Although it did not require medical attentions it caused a delay as he sought relief from the heat by using his KTM 690 for shade from the hot Moroccan sun. Don’s comment is “it was fun and challenging”
Canadian - Don Hatton - starts 5th in the 2009 Morocco Rally
Don Hatton will be starting fifth in the Enduro class out of approximately fifty plus motorcycle competitors on the second day of competition in the 2009 NPO Shamrock Rally de Maroc (Shamrock Rally of Morocco).
“Rocks, rocks and more rocks. And we are not talking pebbles here” Don says. Due to the rough terrain Don has re-injured his hand and twisted his knee. He has been cleared by officials to continue racing tomorrow.
Don is being challenged by both the terrain, and some teething problems on his KTM 690 Enduro race bike. His bike has had some recurring electrical gremlins associated with the installation of the navigation equipment and with the suspension set up during day one. But the team mechanics are working hard to correct the problems.
As Don is competing in the Enduro class his bike must remain as close to factory stock condition as allowed under the NPO rules. That poses some limitations on components such as the suspension and engine as compared to a Don’s race prepared Dakar KTM
“This is the right bike for this race” Don says of the KTM."
UPDATE - According to the Rally Raid report on DestinationDakar Don's not so happy with his basically stock KTM 690 for this race now that he's had some time on it. He feels that it's not the right bike for the race. They made some suspension adjustments though and he's hoping it'll be better for the upcoming stages.
“Rocks, rocks and more rocks. And we are not talking pebbles here” Don says. Due to the rough terrain Don has re-injured his hand and twisted his knee. He has been cleared by officials to continue racing tomorrow.
Don is being challenged by both the terrain, and some teething problems on his KTM 690 Enduro race bike. His bike has had some recurring electrical gremlins associated with the installation of the navigation equipment and with the suspension set up during day one. But the team mechanics are working hard to correct the problems. As Don is competing in the Enduro class his bike must remain as close to factory stock condition as allowed under the NPO rules. That poses some limitations on components such as the suspension and engine as compared to a Don’s race prepared Dakar KTM
“This is the right bike for this race” Don says of the KTM."
UPDATE - According to the Rally Raid report on DestinationDakar Don's not so happy with his basically stock KTM 690 for this race now that he's had some time on it. He feels that it's not the right bike for the race. They made some suspension adjustments though and he's hoping it'll be better for the upcoming stages.
More news about Scooter Sense "Almost World Tour"
If you haven’t already heard or are wondering what Motorcycle Experience - Scooter Sense segment host Bryan Hudgin’s Twitter feed has been referring to lately, we’re just about to shoot the second season of “Scooter Sense” for the next season of TSN’s “A Motorcycle Experience”. The concept this time around? The aptly titled, “Scooter Sense Almost World Tour: Big City Lights and Camp Fire Nights”. Bryan will be going on a good old fashioned road trip with his trusty Yamaha BWs125 scooter for 3 days. He’ll be going from Montreal, to Ottawa, to Kingston and finally landing in Toronto with a bunch of stops in between.
The rules of engagement? No money, a $25 gas card, a stack of t-shirts, a tent for camping and a mission to spread the scooter gospel. His cell phone is rigged to the Yamaha corporate Twitter account, so he’ll be updating frequently along the way. You can follow along from each of Yamaha’s motorcycle or snowmobile blogs or search for “YamahaMotorCa” to follow with your Twitter account.
Bryan says that he would love to have any fans and riders join him along the way, which is we’re posting a tentative itinerary below. Keep in mind, this is a pretty complicated beast to organize and shooting TV can always take longer than expected, so things can change really quickly. We will be changing things throughout this week and during the trip but we wanted to get you up to speed to keep you in the loop. You’ll need to check back with Bryans blog fairly frequently to stay on top of our shooting locations!
Having said all of that, if you come out to support the tour, Bryan will give you a limited edition “Scooter Sense Almost World Tour” t-shirt for your troubles (while his limited supply lasts). Of course he may use it to trade you for food though!!
Here is the current tour schedule as posted on Bryan’s blog.
Day One – Sunday October 4th
- 8:30am to 9:00am at Montreal’s Olympic Stadium
Feature 1 – The last breakfast! From now on in - no money, just a gas card, a tent and t-shirts for the next 3 days. Can you eat cotton?
- 9:00 depart for Chateau Montebello via Hwy 15N and Route 50W
- 10:30am to 11:00am at Chateau Montebello gates.
Feature 2 - Unfortunately, I won’t be sleeping at the Chateau Montebello, but it is a scenic place for a stop!
- 11:00am depart for Ottawa via Cty Rd 17 & Regional Rd 174W
- 12:30am to 3:30pm at Ottawa at the Parliament buildings.
Feature 3 – I’ll do my best to recruit some government leaders to chat about the benefits of scooters! Heck we pay their salary, it’s the least they could do, right??
- 3:30 depart for loyal “A Motorcycle Experience” viewer Bruce & Jan Haskin’s home via Hwy 7W and Hwy 15
- 5:00pm to 7:00pm in Portland.
Feature 4 - Meet the Haskins! Set up camp for the night!
Day Two – Monday October 5th
- 8:00am to 8:30am at Haskin Home in Portland.
Feature 5 – Bright eyed and bushy tailed. Bruce leads the convoy down Cty Road 10 to Kingston, the old hometown!
- 8:30am depart for Kingston
- 10:00am to 12:00pm at Queens University Kingston
Feature 6- Math quiz! Who can figure out a scooter’s gas mileage the quickest? Shouldn’t have any problems finding any scholar’s here
- 12:00pm depart for Shannonville via Hwy 2
- 1:30pm at Shannonville
Feature 7 – What are my lap times? Face off against some road racing veterans!
- 3:00pm depart for Sandbanks Provincial Park via Cty Rd 49
- 5:00pm to 7:30pm at Sandbanks Provincial Park
Feature 8 - Set up camp. Dinner of champions over the open fire.
Day Three - Tuesday October 6th
- 8:00am to 8:30am Sandbanks morning in Prince Edward County.
Feature 9 - How was the sleep? How was breakfast? Where are we off to?
- 8:30am depart for Port Hope via Loyalist Pkwy and Hwy 2
- 10:00am to 10:30am at Port Hope
Feature 10 – Fuel Stop. How much money have I spent on gas?
- 10:30am depart for Toronto via Regional Rd 9, Taunton Rd and Hwy 7
- 12:00pm to 3:30pm at Toronto
Feature 11 – Group Ride with Toronto Scooter Club. These guys are hardcore!
Feature 12 – Hit the showers!! Cap it all off!
Anyone wishing to join us along the way are more than welcome! The more the merrier!
Please ensure you check back regularly to Bryan’s blog and the Twitter feed as things will be changing constantly.
The rules of engagement? No money, a $25 gas card, a stack of t-shirts, a tent for camping and a mission to spread the scooter gospel. His cell phone is rigged to the Yamaha corporate Twitter account, so he’ll be updating frequently along the way. You can follow along from each of Yamaha’s motorcycle or snowmobile blogs or search for “YamahaMotorCa” to follow with your Twitter account.
Bryan says that he would love to have any fans and riders join him along the way, which is we’re posting a tentative itinerary below. Keep in mind, this is a pretty complicated beast to organize and shooting TV can always take longer than expected, so things can change really quickly. We will be changing things throughout this week and during the trip but we wanted to get you up to speed to keep you in the loop. You’ll need to check back with Bryans blog fairly frequently to stay on top of our shooting locations!
Having said all of that, if you come out to support the tour, Bryan will give you a limited edition “Scooter Sense Almost World Tour” t-shirt for your troubles (while his limited supply lasts). Of course he may use it to trade you for food though!!
Here is the current tour schedule as posted on Bryan’s blog.
Day One – Sunday October 4th
- 8:30am to 9:00am at Montreal’s Olympic Stadium
Feature 1 – The last breakfast! From now on in - no money, just a gas card, a tent and t-shirts for the next 3 days. Can you eat cotton?
- 9:00 depart for Chateau Montebello via Hwy 15N and Route 50W
- 10:30am to 11:00am at Chateau Montebello gates.
Feature 2 - Unfortunately, I won’t be sleeping at the Chateau Montebello, but it is a scenic place for a stop!
- 11:00am depart for Ottawa via Cty Rd 17 & Regional Rd 174W
- 12:30am to 3:30pm at Ottawa at the Parliament buildings.
Feature 3 – I’ll do my best to recruit some government leaders to chat about the benefits of scooters! Heck we pay their salary, it’s the least they could do, right??
- 3:30 depart for loyal “A Motorcycle Experience” viewer Bruce & Jan Haskin’s home via Hwy 7W and Hwy 15
- 5:00pm to 7:00pm in Portland.
Feature 4 - Meet the Haskins! Set up camp for the night!
Day Two – Monday October 5th
- 8:00am to 8:30am at Haskin Home in Portland.
Feature 5 – Bright eyed and bushy tailed. Bruce leads the convoy down Cty Road 10 to Kingston, the old hometown!
- 8:30am depart for Kingston
- 10:00am to 12:00pm at Queens University Kingston
Feature 6- Math quiz! Who can figure out a scooter’s gas mileage the quickest? Shouldn’t have any problems finding any scholar’s here
- 12:00pm depart for Shannonville via Hwy 2
- 1:30pm at Shannonville
Feature 7 – What are my lap times? Face off against some road racing veterans!
- 3:00pm depart for Sandbanks Provincial Park via Cty Rd 49
- 5:00pm to 7:30pm at Sandbanks Provincial Park
Feature 8 - Set up camp. Dinner of champions over the open fire.
Day Three - Tuesday October 6th
- 8:00am to 8:30am Sandbanks morning in Prince Edward County.
Feature 9 - How was the sleep? How was breakfast? Where are we off to?
- 8:30am depart for Port Hope via Loyalist Pkwy and Hwy 2
- 10:00am to 10:30am at Port Hope
Feature 10 – Fuel Stop. How much money have I spent on gas?
- 10:30am depart for Toronto via Regional Rd 9, Taunton Rd and Hwy 7
- 12:00pm to 3:30pm at Toronto
Feature 11 – Group Ride with Toronto Scooter Club. These guys are hardcore!
Feature 12 – Hit the showers!! Cap it all off!
Anyone wishing to join us along the way are more than welcome! The more the merrier!
Please ensure you check back regularly to Bryan’s blog and the Twitter feed as things will be changing constantly.
Two Harley's in the Great White North
European Harley Davidson specialists' W&W Cycles from Germany took on an unusual challenge recently. Their motorcycles of choice - a 1948 Panhead and custom 2006-model Shovelhead.
The challenge - they rode the bikes up the ice road to Tuktoyaktuk, in Canada’s Northwest Territories. The resulting photo essay is quite remarkable. -57 celsius at points with wind chill! -35 without.
Yes, folks that's cold - even for Canadian's!
Check out the full photo essay HERE.
Photo courtesy W&W
The challenge - they rode the bikes up the ice road to Tuktoyaktuk, in Canada’s Northwest Territories. The resulting photo essay is quite remarkable. -57 celsius at points with wind chill! -35 without.
Yes, folks that's cold - even for Canadian's!
Check out the full photo essay HERE.
Photo courtesy W&W
May 9th, 2009 - Training Day - Cobourg Ontario
Get yer GPS ready because Rallyconnex is having a Training Day.
Spring Training – Start Location – Orange Motorsports in Baltimore (just north of Cobourg on Hwy 45)
Sign in starts at 8 am. While the GPSs are being loaded we will do a brief classroom session consisting of a brief GPS training, bike set-up and riding techniques. Note the classroom session has been shortened this year so that we can spend more time on the bikes. You will then follow a GPS route to the off road training center. Dress warm during the morning ride, and then shed a layer or two when we get to the training area.
Once there we will split into small groups based on ability and bike size and rotate through several technical training sessions. Sessions include: emergency gravel braking, handling ruts, log crossings, off-camber maneuvers, single track trail, water crossings, low speed jumps, and the ever popular barrel runs. Lunch will again be provided. Afternoon sessions concentrate on off-road riding technique training and practice, before returning to the start via another GPS route. All sizes of bikes are welcome and there are “stock tire” and “aggressive tire” routes to choose from. This event is the perfect way to shake out the cobwebs from a long winter, and learn some new techniques. As usual, the event is fully supported with sweep riders and support truck. There will be space for any bulky luggage in the trailer.
Training day is held the day before Mother’s Day. In honour of our mothers, sisters, daughters, aunts and friends, this event will be a fundraiser for the 2009 Weekend to End Breast Cancer. Riders from previous years will know that this is the fourth year that Lynda Burnett and her sister Laura Murray will walk in the 60 km event. Proceeds will be donated to team T.W.I.N.S. (Transforming Walking Into New Strength). There will also be pink ribbon merchandise available for sale for Mother’s Day gifts, and Gatorade and Power Bars will also be for sale for donations.
All entries are made through our secure Paypal links on our website. Pre-entry is encouraged, to secure yourself some lunch!
Go to www.rallyconnex.com or email us at rallyconnex@gmail.com
Spring Training – Start Location – Orange Motorsports in Baltimore (just north of Cobourg on Hwy 45)
Sign in starts at 8 am. While the GPSs are being loaded we will do a brief classroom session consisting of a brief GPS training, bike set-up and riding techniques. Note the classroom session has been shortened this year so that we can spend more time on the bikes. You will then follow a GPS route to the off road training center. Dress warm during the morning ride, and then shed a layer or two when we get to the training area.
Once there we will split into small groups based on ability and bike size and rotate through several technical training sessions. Sessions include: emergency gravel braking, handling ruts, log crossings, off-camber maneuvers, single track trail, water crossings, low speed jumps, and the ever popular barrel runs. Lunch will again be provided. Afternoon sessions concentrate on off-road riding technique training and practice, before returning to the start via another GPS route. All sizes of bikes are welcome and there are “stock tire” and “aggressive tire” routes to choose from. This event is the perfect way to shake out the cobwebs from a long winter, and learn some new techniques. As usual, the event is fully supported with sweep riders and support truck. There will be space for any bulky luggage in the trailer.Training day is held the day before Mother’s Day. In honour of our mothers, sisters, daughters, aunts and friends, this event will be a fundraiser for the 2009 Weekend to End Breast Cancer. Riders from previous years will know that this is the fourth year that Lynda Burnett and her sister Laura Murray will walk in the 60 km event. Proceeds will be donated to team T.W.I.N.S. (Transforming Walking Into New Strength). There will also be pink ribbon merchandise available for sale for Mother’s Day gifts, and Gatorade and Power Bars will also be for sale for donations.
All entries are made through our secure Paypal links on our website. Pre-entry is encouraged, to secure yourself some lunch!
Go to www.rallyconnex.com or email us at rallyconnex@gmail.com
4,500 kilometers on a 49cc scooter!
Tue, Mar 24 2009 07:30 AM
| Adventure, entertainment
| Permalink
How far would you think you could reasonably go riding 2-up on a 49cc scooter (2-up is just another way of saying 2 people on the same scooter)? A few hundred kilometers maybe?
Well - a young Canadian couple recently went on a ride that might just destroy your image of what's possible on a 49cc scooter. On September 2, 2008 they set out from Vancover, BC and started heading east. Where did they stop? Eleven days after their journey began they stopped in Barrie, Ontario. That's about 4,500 kilometers just in case you're wondering.
Their vehicle of choice was a 49cc 2007 Yamaha C3 scooter! I think that might possibly be some kind of a record.
The top speed of a scooter isn't terribly fast, particularly on hills, and with two riders on board. Be sure to read the daily logs. There's some pretty humurous stuff in there.
Some key facts about the trip:
Money spent on Gas = $153.76
Liters of Gas bought = 115.68
Kilometers traveled = 4486kms
Average gas consumption = 109 MPG or 2.58litres/100kms
See all the crazy adventures unfold on their website. They've made some posts about each day of the adventure and posted some pictures and video.
Check it out!
2009 Dakar - OLN only
Fri, Nov 28 2008 10:35 AM
| Adventure, Television
| Permalink
The 2009 Dakar is drawing near and starting on January 3rd through 18th, 2009 you'll be able to see some of the action. Better tune in to the OLN channel though because they'll be the only place to see it on TV here in Canada.
Here's a quote from the OLN website:
"For the first time in its history, the legendary Dakar Rally will head to South America for a new terrain and new challenges in the off-road rally discipline. As the exclusive Canadian broadcaster, OLN will bring viewers daily coverage of the rally throughout the event. Participants will travel through Argentina and Chili in a nine thousand-kilometre loop from Buenos Aires to Valparaiso and back again."
Photo courtesy of OLN. For more details about the programming check out OLN's website here.
Here's a quote from the OLN website:"For the first time in its history, the legendary Dakar Rally will head to South America for a new terrain and new challenges in the off-road rally discipline. As the exclusive Canadian broadcaster, OLN will bring viewers daily coverage of the rally throughout the event. Participants will travel through Argentina and Chili in a nine thousand-kilometre loop from Buenos Aires to Valparaiso and back again."
Photo courtesy of OLN. For more details about the programming check out OLN's website here.
Vacation with BMW
BMW fans attended a World of BMW Experience in record numbers in 2008, and with 2009 fast approaching the German manufacturer is aiming to boost numbers of riders who choose to take a trip with them even higher.
I don't see any Canadian dates listed but there are certainly no shortage of interesting places they are going.
Here's bit of BMW Newsletter with details on the events that are planned for 2009 so far:
BMW Off Road Skills
Facilities at the spectacular Walters Arena Park in Wales are second to none, offering 4,000 acres of terrain and trails to suit all abilities. You will be taught or guided by an experienced team of skilled BMW instructors, headed by six-times Dakar Rally competitor Simon Pavey. This year's range of experiences has been extended to ensure there is something for everyone - from beginners to experienced off-roaders.
In addition to the Level One, Level Two, Day In The Dirt and Brecon Beacons Discovery courses we ran in 2008, next year also sees two new activities for BMW Off Road Skills: a 'Level 3 Enduro Skills' course on BMW's new G 450 X - designed to train and prepare riders for the challenges faced in enduro racing; and an all new 'Adventure Maintenance Skills' course - designed to teach the basic skills for maintaining your bike when travelling.
BMW Off Road Skills courses for 2009 include:
Off Road Skills Level One:
March 05-06; 08-09; 20-21; 22-23; 28-29 (ladies only)
April 10-11; 12-13; 24-25; 26-27
May 07-08; 10-11; 16-17 (ladies only); 22-23; 24-25
June 26-27; 28-29
July 09-10; 12-13; 30-31
August 02-03; 21-22; 23-24
September 10-11; 13-14; 25-26; 27-28
October 08-09; 11-12
Off Road Skills Level Two:
08-09 March
12-13 April
10-11 May
12-13 July
13-14 September
11-12 October
Off Road Skills Level Three:
05-06 March
10-11 April
07-08 May
09-10 July
10-11 September
08-09 October
A Day In The Dirt:
07 March
09 May
11 July
01 August
12 September
10 October
Brecon Beacons Discovery:
04-05 April
04-05 July
05-06 September
Adventure Maintenance Skills:
24 March
28 April
26 May
30 June
25 August
29 September
The following BMW models available to ride at Off Road Skills in 2009:
Level One G 650 Xcountry / G 650 Xchallenge / F 650 GS / F 800 GS / R 1200 GS
Level Two G 650 Xcountry / G 650 Xchallenge / F 650 GS / F 800 GS / R 1200 GS / HP2
Level Three G 450 X only
Day in the Dirt G 650 Xcountry / G 650 Xchallenge / F 650 GS / F 800 GS / R 1200 GS / HP2 / G 450 X
Brecon Beacons Discovery G 650 Xcountry / G 650 Xchallenge / F 650 GS / F 800 GS / R 1200 GS
Adventure Maintenance Participants will work on a variety of BMW motorcycles
For further information on BMW Off Road Skills or for advanced booking please call 08000 131 282.
BMW Rider Training
BMW Rider Training is managed by Double Guinness World Record Holders Kevin & Julia Sanders and is located on the edge of the beautiful Brecon Beacons. You can either learn new skills or learn from scratch from some of the highest-qualified instructors in the UK, riding some of the best biking roads in Britain on the latest models from BMW Motorrad. BMW Rider Training boasts a higher than average national motorcycle license pass rate.
Now is still the time 2009 is also a key year for anyone considering taking their bike test. With the new motorcycle test delayed until 30 March 2009, we expect demand for Direct Access courses to be higher than ever.
To avoid disappointment we strongly recommend booking as early as possible to secure your place on a course. We have also introduced a one-day Road Skills Introduction course for 2009, which is suitable for any riders wanting a health check on their riding. This can be done as a standalone day, or in conjunction with a BMW Off Road Skills Level One course. A new two-day CBT course has also been introduced for 2009, ideal for partners of riders attending a BMW Off Road Skills course (as both activities are based close to each other in South Wales).
BMW Rider Training courses for 2009 include:
Direct Access and CBT training
Dates confirmed at time of booking*
Road Skills Introduction
March 21; 27 (the 27th being a ladies only date)
April 25
May 23; 15 (the 15th being a ladies only date)
June 27
July 11
August 22
September 26
BMW Road Skills Level One - Refresher
March 7-8
April 4-5
May 2-3 (ladies only)
June 6-7
July 4-5
August 1-2
September 4-5 (ladies only)
October 3-4
BMW Road Skills Level Two - Intermediate
March 28-30
April 26-28
May 24-26 (ladies only)
June 28-30
July 26-28
August 30 Aug - 1 Sept (ladies only)
September 27-29
October 23-25
BMW Road Skills Level Three - Advanced
March 14-16
April 17-19
May17-19 (ladies only)
June 13-15
July 12-14
August 7-9 (ladies only)
September 13-15
October 11-13
BMW Individual Premium Training Dates confirmed at time of booking
*Courses run in conjunction with DSA test dates
For further information on BMW Rider Training or for advanced booking please call 08000 131 282.
BMW Tours
For 2009 there is an extensive selection of BMW Tours for road riders and a selection offering off-road riding too. Locations range from Northern France and a trip to Monza for the Italian round of the World Superbike Championship, to more exotic destinations such as South Africa and Morocco. Each tour is carefully designed to provide a two-wheeled trip of a lifetime, varying in length, mileage and terrain.
BMW Tours for 2009 include:
Discover South Africa 19 April - 01 May
New Roads to Morocco 22 April - 08 May
World Superbikes, Monza and the Italian Lakes 06 - 13 May
Ultimate BMW Test Ride 08 - 15 May
lster and the Northwest 200 15 - 19 May
Czech Republic, Tatra Mountains and Slovakia 31 May - 13 June
Icelandic Adventure 18 - 28 June
Fjords and Mountains of Scandinavia and Oslo 10 - 22 June
A BMW Tour de France 19 - 29 June
BMW Motorrad Days in Garmisch-Partenkirchen 01 - 07 July
Tour Director's Luxury Selection 04 - 14 July
Battlefields of the Sommes and Ypres 23 - 27 July
Tour Director's Chateaux Selection 09 - 15 August
Splendour in Austria and the Black Forest 19 - 29 August
Tour of the Western Balkans 27 Aug - 11 Sept
Mediterranean Tour of Corsica and Sardinia September - TBC*
Mountains all the Way 05 - 13 September
Cadiz - Gateway to the Western World 24 May - 05 June
Moroccan Desert Adventure 27 Sept - 13 Oct
Exploring Tunisia and the Sahara Desert October - TBC*
Discover South Africa 18 - 29 October
* Dates to be announced - subject to confirmation of 2009 ferry dates and the 2009 World Superbike calendar
I don't see any Canadian dates listed but there are certainly no shortage of interesting places they are going.
Here's bit of BMW Newsletter with details on the events that are planned for 2009 so far:
BMW Off Road SkillsFacilities at the spectacular Walters Arena Park in Wales are second to none, offering 4,000 acres of terrain and trails to suit all abilities. You will be taught or guided by an experienced team of skilled BMW instructors, headed by six-times Dakar Rally competitor Simon Pavey. This year's range of experiences has been extended to ensure there is something for everyone - from beginners to experienced off-roaders.
In addition to the Level One, Level Two, Day In The Dirt and Brecon Beacons Discovery courses we ran in 2008, next year also sees two new activities for BMW Off Road Skills: a 'Level 3 Enduro Skills' course on BMW's new G 450 X - designed to train and prepare riders for the challenges faced in enduro racing; and an all new 'Adventure Maintenance Skills' course - designed to teach the basic skills for maintaining your bike when travelling.
BMW Off Road Skills courses for 2009 include:
Off Road Skills Level One:
March 05-06; 08-09; 20-21; 22-23; 28-29 (ladies only)
April 10-11; 12-13; 24-25; 26-27
May 07-08; 10-11; 16-17 (ladies only); 22-23; 24-25
June 26-27; 28-29
July 09-10; 12-13; 30-31
August 02-03; 21-22; 23-24
September 10-11; 13-14; 25-26; 27-28
October 08-09; 11-12
Off Road Skills Level Two:
08-09 March
12-13 April
10-11 May
12-13 July
13-14 September
11-12 October
Off Road Skills Level Three:
05-06 March
10-11 April
07-08 May
09-10 July
10-11 September
08-09 October
A Day In The Dirt:
07 March
09 May
11 July
01 August
12 September
10 October
Brecon Beacons Discovery:
04-05 April
04-05 July
05-06 September
Adventure Maintenance Skills:
24 March
28 April
26 May
30 June
25 August
29 September
The following BMW models available to ride at Off Road Skills in 2009:
Level One G 650 Xcountry / G 650 Xchallenge / F 650 GS / F 800 GS / R 1200 GS
Level Two G 650 Xcountry / G 650 Xchallenge / F 650 GS / F 800 GS / R 1200 GS / HP2
Level Three G 450 X only
Day in the Dirt G 650 Xcountry / G 650 Xchallenge / F 650 GS / F 800 GS / R 1200 GS / HP2 / G 450 X
Brecon Beacons Discovery G 650 Xcountry / G 650 Xchallenge / F 650 GS / F 800 GS / R 1200 GS
Adventure Maintenance Participants will work on a variety of BMW motorcycles
For further information on BMW Off Road Skills or for advanced booking please call 08000 131 282.
BMW Rider Training
BMW Rider Training is managed by Double Guinness World Record Holders Kevin & Julia Sanders and is located on the edge of the beautiful Brecon Beacons. You can either learn new skills or learn from scratch from some of the highest-qualified instructors in the UK, riding some of the best biking roads in Britain on the latest models from BMW Motorrad. BMW Rider Training boasts a higher than average national motorcycle license pass rate.
Now is still the time 2009 is also a key year for anyone considering taking their bike test. With the new motorcycle test delayed until 30 March 2009, we expect demand for Direct Access courses to be higher than ever.
To avoid disappointment we strongly recommend booking as early as possible to secure your place on a course. We have also introduced a one-day Road Skills Introduction course for 2009, which is suitable for any riders wanting a health check on their riding. This can be done as a standalone day, or in conjunction with a BMW Off Road Skills Level One course. A new two-day CBT course has also been introduced for 2009, ideal for partners of riders attending a BMW Off Road Skills course (as both activities are based close to each other in South Wales).
BMW Rider Training courses for 2009 include:
Direct Access and CBT training
Dates confirmed at time of booking*
Road Skills Introduction
March 21; 27 (the 27th being a ladies only date)
April 25
May 23; 15 (the 15th being a ladies only date)
June 27
July 11
August 22
September 26
BMW Road Skills Level One - Refresher
March 7-8
April 4-5
May 2-3 (ladies only)
June 6-7
July 4-5
August 1-2
September 4-5 (ladies only)
October 3-4
BMW Road Skills Level Two - Intermediate
March 28-30
April 26-28
May 24-26 (ladies only)
June 28-30
July 26-28
August 30 Aug - 1 Sept (ladies only)
September 27-29
October 23-25
BMW Road Skills Level Three - Advanced
March 14-16
April 17-19
May17-19 (ladies only)
June 13-15
July 12-14
August 7-9 (ladies only)
September 13-15
October 11-13
BMW Individual Premium Training Dates confirmed at time of booking
*Courses run in conjunction with DSA test dates
For further information on BMW Rider Training or for advanced booking please call 08000 131 282.
BMW Tours
For 2009 there is an extensive selection of BMW Tours for road riders and a selection offering off-road riding too. Locations range from Northern France and a trip to Monza for the Italian round of the World Superbike Championship, to more exotic destinations such as South Africa and Morocco. Each tour is carefully designed to provide a two-wheeled trip of a lifetime, varying in length, mileage and terrain.
BMW Tours for 2009 include:
Discover South Africa 19 April - 01 May
New Roads to Morocco 22 April - 08 May
World Superbikes, Monza and the Italian Lakes 06 - 13 May
Ultimate BMW Test Ride 08 - 15 May
lster and the Northwest 200 15 - 19 May
Czech Republic, Tatra Mountains and Slovakia 31 May - 13 June
Icelandic Adventure 18 - 28 June
Fjords and Mountains of Scandinavia and Oslo 10 - 22 June
A BMW Tour de France 19 - 29 June
BMW Motorrad Days in Garmisch-Partenkirchen 01 - 07 July
Tour Director's Luxury Selection 04 - 14 July
Battlefields of the Sommes and Ypres 23 - 27 July
Tour Director's Chateaux Selection 09 - 15 August
Splendour in Austria and the Black Forest 19 - 29 August
Tour of the Western Balkans 27 Aug - 11 Sept
Mediterranean Tour of Corsica and Sardinia September - TBC*
Mountains all the Way 05 - 13 September
Cadiz - Gateway to the Western World 24 May - 05 June
Moroccan Desert Adventure 27 Sept - 13 Oct
Exploring Tunisia and the Sahara Desert October - TBC*
Discover South Africa 18 - 29 October
* Dates to be announced - subject to confirmation of 2009 ferry dates and the 2009 World Superbike calendar
Join the Dakar in South America!
GlobeBusters - Motorcycle Expeditions is offering the adventure trip of a lifetime.
The Dakar South America trip runs from 28 December 2008 to 22 January 2009. The tour is led by GlobeBusters founder and BMW Motorrad UK's Rider Training Director, Kevin Sanders and is also planned to support Simon Pavey, the UK Director for BMW Off Road Skills. This will be Simon's seventh Dakar Rally, and his knowledge of the rally will provide a unique insight for tour participants.
Here's the story straight from GlobeBusters:
This is your chance to participate in a truly one-off event. Supporting GlobeBusters sponsored rider and Race to Dakar star, Simon Pavey, we bring you a unique opportunity to experience the excitement and thrills of the legendary Dakar Rally when it is held for the first time ever in South America.
No other UK motorcycle adventure company knows South America with the depth of knowledge than the team at GlobeBusters and combined with insight of the race provided first hand by Dakar veteran, Simon Pavey, this makes for simply the best tour that Dakar fans could wish for.
Your personal bike will be shipped over to Buenos Aires ready for you to follow stages of this epic race. The Latin Americans are passionate about motorsport and a good party, so the atmosphere will be electric. You will be there to celebrate the 2009 New Year with Simon Pavey and GlobeBusters founder, Guinness World Record Holder, Kevin Sanders in one of the top tango bars in Buenos Aires, before seeing the start of the race leave from the City. We follow, hot on its heels, out along the world's widest road and towards the Andes Mountains!
Over the next two weeks, we will ride to coincide with certain sections of the race to support Simon Pavey as he battles his way on a BMW G650 X Challenge (specially prepared by Touratech) through the hard core, extreme challenges set by the Dakar. This includes arriving in Valparaiso for the official rest day, and returning back to Buenos Aires for the official finish, as well as soaking up local culture, sights, food and drink en route. Blazing orange deserts, breathless high altitudes, shimmering salt flats, ancient volcanoes will all be the incredible backdrop to this amazing ride.
Detailed itineraries will not be available for this trip until just prior to the trip. However, with our detailed knowledge of South American routes, we can envisage that the Rally will take advantage of great desert riding in the north of Chile and also the spectacular heights of the Northern Andes where riding at altitudes of 5,000 metres is possible. A loop into the remote wilderness of Patagonia may also be on the cards. Whichever route the Dakar takes, rest assured that the GlobeBusters team have ridden there before and can lead you expertly you through this amazing continent.
This is a "ride hard, play hard" trip, with days of up to 600 miles and some wilderness rough camping to be close to the nightly rally bivouacs, so you can soak up the intensity of the race at close quarters. But this will also be combined with some of the best hotels and top eating places that Argentina can offer.
For more details contact GloberBusters - Motorcycle Expeditions
The Dakar South America trip runs from 28 December 2008 to 22 January 2009. The tour is led by GlobeBusters founder and BMW Motorrad UK's Rider Training Director, Kevin Sanders and is also planned to support Simon Pavey, the UK Director for BMW Off Road Skills. This will be Simon's seventh Dakar Rally, and his knowledge of the rally will provide a unique insight for tour participants.Here's the story straight from GlobeBusters:
This is your chance to participate in a truly one-off event. Supporting GlobeBusters sponsored rider and Race to Dakar star, Simon Pavey, we bring you a unique opportunity to experience the excitement and thrills of the legendary Dakar Rally when it is held for the first time ever in South America.
No other UK motorcycle adventure company knows South America with the depth of knowledge than the team at GlobeBusters and combined with insight of the race provided first hand by Dakar veteran, Simon Pavey, this makes for simply the best tour that Dakar fans could wish for.
Your personal bike will be shipped over to Buenos Aires ready for you to follow stages of this epic race. The Latin Americans are passionate about motorsport and a good party, so the atmosphere will be electric. You will be there to celebrate the 2009 New Year with Simon Pavey and GlobeBusters founder, Guinness World Record Holder, Kevin Sanders in one of the top tango bars in Buenos Aires, before seeing the start of the race leave from the City. We follow, hot on its heels, out along the world's widest road and towards the Andes Mountains!
Over the next two weeks, we will ride to coincide with certain sections of the race to support Simon Pavey as he battles his way on a BMW G650 X Challenge (specially prepared by Touratech) through the hard core, extreme challenges set by the Dakar. This includes arriving in Valparaiso for the official rest day, and returning back to Buenos Aires for the official finish, as well as soaking up local culture, sights, food and drink en route. Blazing orange deserts, breathless high altitudes, shimmering salt flats, ancient volcanoes will all be the incredible backdrop to this amazing ride.Detailed itineraries will not be available for this trip until just prior to the trip. However, with our detailed knowledge of South American routes, we can envisage that the Rally will take advantage of great desert riding in the north of Chile and also the spectacular heights of the Northern Andes where riding at altitudes of 5,000 metres is possible. A loop into the remote wilderness of Patagonia may also be on the cards. Whichever route the Dakar takes, rest assured that the GlobeBusters team have ridden there before and can lead you expertly you through this amazing continent.
This is a "ride hard, play hard" trip, with days of up to 600 miles and some wilderness rough camping to be close to the nightly rally bivouacs, so you can soak up the intensity of the race at close quarters. But this will also be combined with some of the best hotels and top eating places that Argentina can offer.
For more details contact GloberBusters - Motorcycle Expeditions
Irish motorcycle tourist traveling around the world
A motorcyclist from Ireland is touring the world aboard his trusty Aprilia 650 (a clone of the popular BMW 650 single - but not available in Canada). He's not tackling the entire globe all at once, choosing instead because of budget to do it in sections.
Paddy Tyson mentions in a conversation with a Bugle Observer reporter in Woodstock, New Brunswick that New Zealanders are typically known as some of the friendliest in the world; hospitality that he's been lucky enough to experience first-hand. But, his trip through the Maritime provinces of Canada have made him reconsider this ranking. He's said that Maritimers are the most hospitable people he has ever met in his life. "Here I am just stunned by the hospitality" said Tyson.
Hailing from County Fermanagh, the westernmost of the six counties that form Northern Ireland. He has already toured extensively throughout northern Europe. Tyson's current leg is one of the long ones. He'll be traveling through North, Central, and South America. He's already done the Australia, New Zealand, and Philippines portions of the trip.
He's a bit of a magnet for attention on his Aprilia 650 since it's not available in Canada. Not only that though, its yellow Great Britain registration plate, big Ireland sticker, and twin auxiliary tanks that allow a 600 km range is all the conversation starter that's necessary.
The bike certainly attracted some attention in Halifax, where he landed in Canada. It took five days to clear customs there. He became quite a familiar fixture in the office in fact, staying from 9-5 each day. Luckily the hospitality made up for some of that unpleasantness!
He's traveling with a $50 a day budget and trying to camp whenever possible and in the Maritimes at least he's done quite well with that budget, having been offered places to stay, meals, cups of tea, and plenty of helpful advice and conversation.
His impressions of Canada so far includes "trees, trees, trees and more trees!" Welcome to Canada!
Paddy Tyson mentions in a conversation with a Bugle Observer reporter in Woodstock, New Brunswick that New Zealanders are typically known as some of the friendliest in the world; hospitality that he's been lucky enough to experience first-hand. But, his trip through the Maritime provinces of Canada have made him reconsider this ranking. He's said that Maritimers are the most hospitable people he has ever met in his life. "Here I am just stunned by the hospitality" said Tyson.
Hailing from County Fermanagh, the westernmost of the six counties that form Northern Ireland. He has already toured extensively throughout northern Europe. Tyson's current leg is one of the long ones. He'll be traveling through North, Central, and South America. He's already done the Australia, New Zealand, and Philippines portions of the trip.
He's a bit of a magnet for attention on his Aprilia 650 since it's not available in Canada. Not only that though, its yellow Great Britain registration plate, big Ireland sticker, and twin auxiliary tanks that allow a 600 km range is all the conversation starter that's necessary.
The bike certainly attracted some attention in Halifax, where he landed in Canada. It took five days to clear customs there. He became quite a familiar fixture in the office in fact, staying from 9-5 each day. Luckily the hospitality made up for some of that unpleasantness!
He's traveling with a $50 a day budget and trying to camp whenever possible and in the Maritimes at least he's done quite well with that budget, having been offered places to stay, meals, cups of tea, and plenty of helpful advice and conversation.
His impressions of Canada so far includes "trees, trees, trees and more trees!" Welcome to Canada!
Some packing tips from Honda Canada
With the announcement of the Varadero and CBF1000 coming to Canada a few months back Honda launched a website - http://adventureawaits.ca/ It does have some good tips for those looking for some adventure.
One particularly good series of tips they offer is on packing for a trip. So, courtesy of Honda Canada here's a little list to consider when you're planning your next overnight (or longer) motorcycle adventure:
1. Download our recommended gear list.
2. Lay everything out on the floor before putting it in the bike. Then put half of it back. Less is usually more.
3. Keep all of your gear to a weight within the bike’s total recommended cargo capacity including passengers. And don’t forget to check the weight restrictions of your panniers too.
4. Put your clothes, toiletry kit, towel, chargers, and stuff to put in a tent or motel room in your one of your panniers. Once you unload, you can use it for groceries & supplies later.
5. Tools, first aid kit, tire pump, extra parts, oil, or the things you won’t need (hopefully) go in the other pannier.
6. Stuff you want to access on the ride can go in your tank bag. Things like camera, phone, leatherman, flashlight, camelbak, food, extra gloves, owners book, insurance & registration cards.
7. On long adventures, get a top box and store your camping gear inside.
8. Place similar items inside the same small bag. It’s a good idea for each bag to be a different colour. So, for example, shirts go in the light blue bag. This makes it easy to find the stuff you want.
9. Get a laundry bag for dirty stuff and a drying bag for stuff that is clean but wet.
10. Space counts. Use every centimeter, like inside shoes and socks.
11. Don’t stuff your jacket with stuff. You need to remain aerodynamic and flexible.
One particularly good series of tips they offer is on packing for a trip. So, courtesy of Honda Canada here's a little list to consider when you're planning your next overnight (or longer) motorcycle adventure:
1. Download our recommended gear list.
2. Lay everything out on the floor before putting it in the bike. Then put half of it back. Less is usually more.
3. Keep all of your gear to a weight within the bike’s total recommended cargo capacity including passengers. And don’t forget to check the weight restrictions of your panniers too.
4. Put your clothes, toiletry kit, towel, chargers, and stuff to put in a tent or motel room in your one of your panniers. Once you unload, you can use it for groceries & supplies later.
5. Tools, first aid kit, tire pump, extra parts, oil, or the things you won’t need (hopefully) go in the other pannier.
6. Stuff you want to access on the ride can go in your tank bag. Things like camera, phone, leatherman, flashlight, camelbak, food, extra gloves, owners book, insurance & registration cards.
7. On long adventures, get a top box and store your camping gear inside.
8. Place similar items inside the same small bag. It’s a good idea for each bag to be a different colour. So, for example, shirts go in the light blue bag. This makes it easy to find the stuff you want.
9. Get a laundry bag for dirty stuff and a drying bag for stuff that is clean but wet.
10. Space counts. Use every centimeter, like inside shoes and socks.
11. Don’t stuff your jacket with stuff. You need to remain aerodynamic and flexible.
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We work hard to publish original content that will be of interest to Canadian motorcycle enthusiasts. Much of the written content, images, video, and other content on this website is the property of Canadian Motorcycle Rider. Unauthorized commercial publication or exploitation of images, video, or content of this Web site is specifically prohibited. Anyone wishing to use any of our content for commercial use or publication must request and receive prior written permission from Canadian Motorcycle Rider (www.CanadianMotorcycleRider.ca)
