After all the talk of adventure riding, and planning and building the bike.. it was more than a little disappointing to have this Coronavirus scupper all our well laid plans.
Over the past few weeks I’d been slowly toying with the idea of a more local trip. Sure, it’s not into central Europe, but so what. It’s wild camping and dirtbiking!! Bike’s ready, you’re ready, just do it already.
Before hitting the road I carried out some preventative maintenance : re-greased the swingarm bearings, fitted new wheel bearings, swapped out the 72 shock spring and replaced with an 80 to compensate for the expected weight of luggage. Fresh oil and a new air filter and we we’re good to go.
Luggage was very basic. The sleeping system was a light tent, a sleeping bag and a foam roll. Tools were basic too, a 1/4″ socket set, some torx T-bars, some spanners, and a little gear oil to lube the chain. 4 tyre levers and a spare 21″ HD inner tube were thrown in there too, just in case.
On top of that I carried one pair of combat trousers, 2 t-shirts, some clean socks and underwear, and a warm pullover.
In the tankbag there was a small M43 camera (Panasonic GM1 & 42.5mm Lens), some USB charging cables, and some snacks.
The bike performed flawlessly over 850km, and the only real difficulty was in actually getting my leg over the seat with the luggage on the back. I possibly may have to invest in a stronger side stand?
Also in the pics are my buddys on CRF 250 Rally, and DRZ 400.