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The
Off Road Motorcycle
Focusing on the motorbike for a moment, one typically needs a bike that offers
torque at low revs (between 3000 and 6000 rpm), a gearbox that offers a longer
first gear and a maximum speed of less than 180kph. Also high, firm suspension,
reasonable off road tyres - (tires USA) and wide, upright handlebars. Typically
these types of motorcycles are called enduro, trail or dual-sport with MX bikes
being the most extreme examples. Generally tyres are run a bit softer than on
the road. A good all round pressure is 1.1 bar (15psi) for the front with the
rear being a bit harder (increase tyre pressure above 2 bar however when travelling
over very rocky terrain in order to protect your rims and avoid punctures) If
you plan to ride more challenging trails your motorbike should have wheel rims
with spokes and heavy duty tubes which are able to resist objects like thorns.
Inner tubes should be replaced every 20 000km even if they have never sustained
a puncture. This is because the area around the valve deteriorates and final tears
causing a puncture that can be impossible to repair. Water that seeps in through
the spokes also causes damage to both the rims, spokes and tube. Ideally your
rims should dry out before you park your bike. The vulnerable
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bike should be protected by engine protectors, crash bars, bash plates etc. front
and back. This especially applies to the big, off road boxter BMW motorbikes where
the tappet covers stick out the side and are especially vulnerable. Special equipment
e.g. headlights, brake calipers, turn indicators, radiator etc. should also be
protected. If you are touring off road your luggage must be packed down low. Piling
stuff on the seat behind you will cause your bike to become top heavy. You wont
even notice the problem as you leave town on the tar. Later when you hit the bad
stuff, it will be too late! |
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Clothing
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Protective Riding
Gear Injury can be avoided by having suitable protective clothing. Helmet, eye
and hand protection are obvious but do not neglect the following
1) Boots that offer
solid ankle support (sport shoes, sneakers, tennis shoes are a big NO NO)
2) Long pants that
are tear resistant (denim jeans are not suitable!)
.3) Knee protection.
These can be built into the construction of the pants or worn separately and externally
over the knees.
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4) Thigh protection.
Usually built into the long pants
5) Jacket that
offers elbow and shoulder protection Riding off road in Africa is usually very
hot due to the low speeds and the strenuous exercise. This should be borne in
mind when purchasing a jacket. For the same reason one wears a three quarters
helmet with goggles when riding off road at speeds of less than 100kph.
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