Advice for a trip. - Ducati.ms

Marto · Dec 27th, 2011, 4:31 pm

Hi,

I'm getting ready for a 4000km trip to the northern part of Argentina. In this distance I'll go through different climates and environments (desert, valleys, mountains and even some light jungle). For those who are experienced in long distance trips. What would be your top 5 pieces of advice I should keep in mind?
thanks.

multi rider · Dec 27th, 2011, 5:27 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marto

Hi,

I'm getting ready for a 4000km trip to the northern part of Argentina. In this distance I'll go through different climates and environments (desert, valleys, mountains and even some light jungle). For those who are experienced in long distance trips. What would be your top 5 pieces of advice I should keep in mind?
thanks.

Lucky you....

Perhaps you should watch "The long way around or The Long Way Down" to see what good a support crew can be for you

The only other advice...
Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down at all times

Seriously jealous

DanF · Dec 27th, 2011, 5:48 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marto

Hi,

I'm getting ready for a 4000km trip to the northern part of Argentina. In this distance I'll go through different climates and environments (desert, valleys, mountains and even some light jungle). For those who are experienced in long distance trips. What would be your top 5 pieces of advice I should keep in mind?
thanks.

When you are in remote locations one of the simplest and most valuable items that may open doorways to you from people who's path you may cross is.....the candy bar. There is something universally magic about a Snickers bar.

Now I realize that we are not living in the 1940's: but even in 2012 they will still work.

Dan

P.S.

And make sure you are also an absolute genius in fixing flats in the worst of weather conditions.

riva996 · Dec 27th, 2011, 5:56 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marto

Hi,

I'm getting ready for a 4000km trip to the northern part of Argentina. In this distance I'll go through different climates and environments (desert, valleys, mountains and even some light jungle). For those who are experienced in long distance trips. What would be your top 5 pieces of advice I should keep in mind?
thanks.

Riding alone or with others makes a difference. Medical supplies, with small surgical kit and plaster kit for broken bones. Take extra of any meds you already take and don't forget your vitamins.

The distance to support, i.e. mechanical, medical, fuel, makes a difference too. Satellite radio or phone if you are way out there and alone. Extra fuel cans, good nav with satellite updates are helpful. (I use the Zumo 665 with weather and topo maps.) Tell someone your route and check in with them on a scheduled basis. Have fallout options if all goes to hell.

Absolutes, a small cooking unit (I use jet boil, but it has fuel limits) with high calorie food you like. A must if you are out a month or so.
A good multi tool. I use Leatherman Surge.
A flashLight, I use LED rechargeable.
A fire striker, I use Coachlans.
A good bottle of single malt! Another must have!

I'm sure you have all the regular things, so I will skip them.

What I have had to use on the road is a tire patch, rain suit, extra can of gas, and a kidney belt. Forgot sunblock one time and paid heavy for that too.

In preparation, if you are fit, push a little more cardio. I do shopping carts on a treadmill machine. (Raise the machine as high as it goes, and turn it off. See how long you can run a full blast! Do that 60 secs three times every day and you will soon be fit for any trip.)

Man, I wish I was going with you.

Good luck.

AKjitsu · Dec 27th, 2011, 6:55 pm

Water.

Good luck and bring back lots of pictures.

Marto · Dec 27th, 2011, 7:20 pm

Thanks Guys! This is absolutely what a forum should be all about. A friend of mine will be riding with me on a Suzuki DR650 94´. I guess that will set the pace! I'm really looking forward to this trip. I already got the SW MOTECH engine guard (actually it only guards the exhaust), a larger substitute windscreen (kappa. 9cm taller, 4cm wider, looks nice), a small air compressor that fits into the tools compartment, the 55mm socket for the rear wheel and lots of repair patches for the rear wheel (which I intend to replace for a new one days before the beginning). I also got a 1 person tent. I still need to get luggage for the bike. Whatever comes to your mind in terms of suggestions is welcome. Thanks.

Marto · Dec 27th, 2011, 7:27 pm

Lucky you....

Perhaps you should watch "The long way around or The Long Way Down" to see what good a support crew can be for you

The only other advice...
Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down at all times

Seriously jealous

[/QUOTE]

hahaha! That should do it. Other than our motorcycles, our entire budget for the whole trip is 2000 Euros for the two of us. And that includes gas, tips and drinks!

oalvarez · Dec 27th, 2011, 7:28 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marto

Hi,

I'm getting ready for a 4000km trip to the northern part of Argentina. In this distance I'll go through different climates and environments (desert, valleys, mountains and even some light jungle). For those who are experienced in long distance trips. What would be your top 5 pieces of advice I should keep in mind?
thanks.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/ for all things ADV (especially non-bike specific).

Safe travels!

riva996 · Dec 27th, 2011, 9:58 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marto

Thanks Guys! This is absolutely what a forum should be all about. A friend of mine will be riding with me on a Suzuki DR650 94´. I guess that will set the pace! I'm really looking forward to this trip. I already got the SW MOTECH engine guard (actually it only guards the exhaust), a larger substitute windscreen (kappa. 9cm taller, 4cm wider, looks nice), a small air compressor that fits into the tools compartment, the 55mm socket for the rear wheel and lots of repair patches for the rear wheel (which I intend to replace for a new one days before the beginning). I also got a 1 person tent. I still need to get luggage for the bike. Whatever comes to your mind in terms of suggestions is welcome. Thanks.

I might suggest soft luggage. Not as security conscious as lockable Touratech hard bags but they won't move around on you when you are riding.
Giant Loop? Moto: Saddlebags for Motorcycles | Welcome

minusone · Dec 28th, 2011, 2:44 am

Quote:

Originally Posted by riva996

I might suggest soft luggage. Not as security conscious as lockable Touratech hard bags but they won't move around on you when you are riding.
Giant Loop? Moto: Saddlebags for Motorcycles | Welcome

You can get luggage wire mesh for security with soft luggage.

For clothing thin layers of natural fibres - merino wool is my favourite over synthetics as it keeps warm when wet and is less likely to smell.

Riding boots with good protection but with ankle movement for walking in.