Adventure Motorcycling Guide for Beginners

"The only impossible journey is the one you never begin." So said author Anthony Robbins, and it's a great aphorism for motorcycling adventurers. Taking the plunge into an adventure motorcycle journey can be daunting to those just starting, and it can feel like there is a lot to learn and consider. But, like all journeys, the first step is often the hardest.

In this blog post, we'll look at the basics of adventure motorcycling and reveal why it's become such a popular pastime. We'll take a look at the essential kit you need for an adventure motorcycle ride, things to consider before hitting the open road, and the top tips for beginning adventurers.

From the incredible sense of freedom while riding off road to discovering secret trails few people have seen before, we'll delve deep into how adventure motorcycling can open up a new world for motorcycle enthusiasts.

But first, let's look at what exactly adventure motorcycling is and why it has become such a popular pursuit.

Adventure motorcycling is quite simply the act of taking your motorcycle off-road and exploring different terrain. It’s about discovering natural beauty, challenging yourself, and having the freedom to go on long rides off the beaten path.

It's important to understand that there are four different types of motorcycles available for off-road riding: Adventure sport bikes, dual sport bikes, enduro bikes, and motocross bikes. Each type of bike is designed for different terrain and conditions, so knowing what type of bike will best suit your needs is key.

• Adventure sport bikes: Designed for long-distance touring on and off the beaten track, these bikes are light, powerful, and comfortable.
• Dual sport bikes: These bikes are a cross between a street bike and an off-road motorcycle, allowing riders to enjoy both pavement and dirt with ease.
• Enduros: Built for the toughest off-road terrain around, enduros have strong suspension systems for tackling tough conditions.
• Motocross: These bikes are designed for closed-course racing on dirt tracks and jumps, and feature powerful two-stroke engines that require agility and skill to master.

If you're looking for a thrilling adventure on two wheels, then an adventure motorcycle could be just the thing for you. Adventure riding (or Adv Riding for short) is all about exploring new places, challenging yourself, and pushing the boundaries - a great adventure experience while driving within your limits. However, adventure motorcycles are usually a bigger bike featuring higher seats and more powerful engines than traditional bikes, so they might not be the best choice for inexperienced riders or newbies. Before starting, make sure to get proper training in the basics of motorcycling. This way you can gain experience safely and confidently set off on an adventure with the peace of mind!

If you have decided that adventure riding is for you, then it's time to get prepared. The better prepared you are, the easier and more enjoyable your journey will be.

Here are some essential tips to help you get ready for an adventure ride!

Investing in the best-quality helmet, motorcycling jacket, boots, and gloves should be the first step of your preparations. This equipment won't just keep you safe if you suffer an unfortunate accident - it will also protect you from wind, dust, bugs, and other debris when you're beating a path through the scrub. The best adventure biking safety gear should be comfortable, lightweight, and breathable. And it's important to realise that this gear can be expensive, so don't forget to factor that into your budget. Finally, make sure everything fits correctly to ensure maximum protection and comfort.

Being familiar with your off-road adventure bike’s features is essential for ensuring that any journey you take on it is a safe and enjoyable one. An adventure bike features a specialised suspension system, larger tyres, and increased ground clearance. It also has advanced braking systems that protect your motorcycle from damage caused by excess torque. Whilst these features allow you to explore places off the beaten track and experience new sights while pushing yourself both physically and mentally, they also take some getting used to. Spend some time getting to know your bike and its features, as well as understanding any maintenance or repair procedures (such as checking the oil levels).

Being aware of any potential problems that could arise is essential for a safe trip. It’s important to regularly inspect your bike's components, such as brakes, suspension, and tyres, to ensure they are in good working order. Doing this will help you avoid getting into a sticky situation that could have been prevented from happening in the first place.

When off-road riding, it definitely pays to plan ahead. Researching various routes can help you find one that best meets your requirements in terms of distance, terrain, and any issues like closures. A website like Trans Australia Trails can be a great source of information, allowing riders to search for trails based on their location, interests, and skill level.

Checking the weather forecast before you set off is also essential. Even if it looks dry and sunny, unexpected rain or winds can quickly turn a pleasant ride into a muddy, slippery, and dangerous one. To ensure your safety, it's always a good idea to let somebody know where you are going and when you expect to return. Planning ahead can take the worry off your shoulders and make your off-road riding experience even more enjoyable!

It's always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you pack these necessary items along with you before setting off on your next adventure motorcycle ride. Make sure you are carrying all the necessities such as a tyre repair kit, multi-tool, first-aid kit, and a fully-charged phone. Your tyre repair kit should contain a pump, repair patches, and a tyre lever. A multi-tool is also handy for fixing any minor issues you may encounter during your ride. And of course, a first-aid kit should always be within reach in case of any accidents or medical emergencies.

Finally, don't forget to bring snacks and water, a fully-charged phone, rain gear, and any other items you may need for your particular journey. A lot of riders will also take a tarp with them as this can come in handy for shade and shelter.

Before taking off for your motorcycle adventure, it is important to familiarise yourself with the basics of off-road riding. The best way to do this is by taking a motorcycle safety course and practising off-road in a safe area. You can start off with basic bike maneuvers such as leaning and cornering in a large open space, then progress towards more complex off-roading challenges like going down hills and weaving around trees. Learning the fundamentals of off-roading in a controlled environment will boost your confidence levels behind the handlebars and equip you with the knowledge needed when tackling off-road tracks and trails on your journey. A useful tip would be to practice with a more experienced rider to help point out any mistakes you may be making along the way.

Off-road riding can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, however, it is important to stay safe and prepared at all times. With the right preparation, you will be well on your way to having an enjoyable and memorable off-road adventure. So, use this guide as a stepping stone for your next off-road motorcycle adventure and you’ll be sure to have a great time!

When the wild is calling and it's time to invest in a new adventure bike, be sure to check out our innovative motorcycle finance options. At Driva, we don't just help you get the best car finance deals; we also provide the best motorcycle finance options to help make your dreams of adventure a reality! With over 30 lenders in our network, you can be sure you'll find the perfect bike loan to suit your needs. Simply provide us with the specifics of the bike you are interested in plus your personal information and let us do the rest.

So, what are you waiting for? Get started with us today and make your off-road adventures a reality!

Your next adventure awaits!

Adventure motorcycles are also referred to as dual sport bikes, enduros, or dirt bikes, and they are designed for both on-road and off-road riding.

The most reliable adventure motorcycles are those that have been well maintained and serviced regularly. Popular options include the KTM 1090 Adventure R, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure, and the Yamaha Tenere 700. Or, if you are looking for a smaller bike, try the Kawasaki Versys-X 300.

You can take motorcycle safety courses at local driving schools or through organisations like the Academy of Off-Road Riding. Once you have your license, you can practice in a safe area before setting off on your next adventure motorcycle ride.