Upshift Issue 47 - July 2020

Issue 47

July 2020

KTM 500 EXC-F KTM 500 EXC-F KTM 500 EXC-F KTM 500 EXC-F

RELENT DUAL PURPOSE POWERHOUSE The KTM 500 EXC-F is a new generation 4-stroke, dual purpose powerhouse. Ready to crush the miles ahead, its versatility for both on-and offroad stands bar none. Packed with 510 cc from the SOHC single cylinder, the KTM 500 EXC-F holds its own as the most powerful model in its class.

ktmusa

Photo: R. Schedl

Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes. Always wear protective safety gear and ride in a responsible manner.

The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and feature optional equipment available at additional cost.

TLESS

KTM Group Partner

Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scene. Always wear protective safety gear and observe the applicable provisions of the road traffic regulations.

The illustrated vehicle may vary in selected details from the production models and may feature optional equipment available at additional cost.

Photos: R. Schedl, KISKA GmbH

With its finely balanced mix of power and agility, the 2021 FE 350 opens up boundless off–road possibilities. A unique opportunity to traverse epic natural landscapes, intuitively merging speed, traction and technical abilities into the ultimate synergy of man, machine and terrain.

The perfect balance.

F E

350

DOHC engine

Carbon composite subframe

Switchable engine maps

husqvarna-motorcycles.com

Issue 47

July 2020

Cover Simon Cudby Design Chris Glaspell Photography Editor Simon Cudby Contributing Writers Tim Burke Chad de Alva Blake Draguesku Freddy Lexx Contributing Photographers Tim Burke Shannon Cudby Chad de Alva Olivier de Vaulx Blake Draguesku Story Editor Andrew Glaspell

Issue 47 JULY 2020

THE INSIDER With Great Power

INSTA-ADV

Instagram Travelers

BIKES-GEAR

The Latest

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Views Through The Lens

DAWN TO DUSK Utah ADV Miles For Days

Business Development Brandon Glanville

THE PANDEMIC ADVENTURE Tim Burke In The PNW

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Contact: Brandon Glanville brandon@upshiftonline.com

Join us on Instagram at @ upshift_online Join us at facebook.com/upshiftonline

TESTED

Fox Racing Deluxe Tool Pack MotoMinded Torch Helmet LED Kit Alpinestars Tech 7 Drystar Boots

COLORADO

Springtime Singletrack Upshift Magazine is published monthly by Upshift Online Inc. 2020. Reproduction of any material requires written consent from the publishers.

All photos, editorial contributions and advertisements are accepted upon representation that they are original materials by the author and or advertiser. Opinions expressed in the articles are those of the author and may not reflect the views and opinions of the editor, staff or advertisers of Upshift Online Inc. Advertisers assume full responsibility for the entire content and subject matter of their advertisements.

FIRST RIDE

Royal Enfield Himalayan

WITH GREAT POWER INSIDER: CHAD DE ALVA Trails don’t take care of themselves. It takes an extraordinary amount of work to clear downed trees, fix drainage issues, and repair damaged sections to ensure trail users enjoy riding them. Public land agencies have trail crews, but there are way more trails to maintain than trail crews to care for them. This means that the responsibility often falls on volunteers to help care for the trails that we love riding.

In many cases, these volunteers use their own equipment and resources to help make their adopted trails more enjoyable for everyone who uses them. Other riders, user groups, and mother nature continually create a long list of maintenance tasks. Yet, these volunteers continue to put in the sweat equity to help ensure that the next time you come bombing down your favorite trail, there isn’t an unpleasant surprise lurking around the corner.

Sadly, the majority of trail users (and I’m looking at all user groups here) don’t do anything to support or care for the trails that they take for granted. Yes, motorized users (ADV and dirt bike riders) have to buy an OHV permit in many places, but getting that permit fee back into the ground is an inefficient process. If you like having trails to ride nearby, or if you travel to ride somewhere, consider stepping up and finding out how you can help support those trails to ensure they have a future.

Get online, ask a local dealer, or even other riders to find out if there is a club or organization you can get involved with to help support trails wherever you ride. There is not a single club or organization out there that will turn down the extra support. If you’re heading out of town or out of state to go ride, a small gesture of a few bucks tossed at a local club goes a long way to say thank you for caring for the trails you’re traveling to enjoy. Additionally, carrying a hand saw and stopping for 10 minutes to clear a downed tree is an easy way to help out your fellow trail users.

The trails that we all enjoy require a lot of work to stay rideable – and that’s not even considering the legal side of things. So do the right thing and get involved. If we all do just a little bit to support the trails we all love, we can demonstrate to land managers and other user groups that we deserve to keep the trails we have, and we will maintain any new trails we build. Lending a helping hand with trail maintenance goes a long way in reversing the negative perception of off-road riding.

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R VE RO 5 SM

I NTRO D UCI NG T HE NEW

5 DENSITY EPS + HIRPO HIGH IMPACT POLYMER PARAMETRIC SHELL OBLIQUE IMPACT PROTECTION + PATENTED VISOR RELEASE SYSTEM INTEGRATED COLLARBONE PROTECTION + LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTRUCTION ERS - EMERGENCY RELEASE SYSTEM + ULTRA-VENTILATED DESIGN HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY A L P INESTA RS . CO M/ S M5H ELMET

KTM’S 2021 OFF-ROAD RANGE REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

300 XC-W TPI

For 2021, the combination of three 2-stroke models with the ground-breaking transfer port injection (TPI) system and four 4-strokes ensures that adult riders and racers of all ages and abilities will have the equipment to suit their needs, whether for competition or the ultimate play weapon on the toughest trails around the globe.

The KTM 300 XC-W TPI is the leading 2-stroke in the line with an impressive power-to-weight ratio and supreme handling to thrill even the most demanding rider. 2021 marks the fourth year of KTM’s advanced and electronically controlled 2-stroke fuel injection system. Breathing new life into the 2-stroke engine, TPI

250 XC-W TPI

extended the possibilities for performance, rider experience and the delivery of dependable power right into the rider’s fingers.

The advantages are clear: there is no need for re-jetting for the climate, altitude or conditions. Automatic and electronically applied oil injection is another major asset.

As with all KTM EXC-F and XC-W TPI motorcycles in the 2021 ensemble, the KTM 300 XC-W TPI benefits from an additional external preload adjuster in the WP XPLOR front fork that allows for easy setting changes for varying track or trail conditions. Additionally, the ultra-lightweight KTM 150 XC-W TPI has been given a new piston, which brings increased performance, consistency

500 EXC-F

and durability.

KTM refuses to kick down a gear in its mission to continue making the KTM EXC-F and XCF-W models, the best dual-sport and offroad 4-stroke machines on the market. The 2021 KTM 500 EXC-F and 350 EXC-F models not only ensure their presence at the top of the dual-sport segment, but also make them serious consideration for any extreme offroad riders with high-quality WP XPLOR suspension, BREMBO brakes and an ultra-light chromoly steel frame.

Based on the same performance platform as the EXC-F models, the KTM 500 XCF-W and KTM 350 XCF-W machines make a definitive performance statement in the KTM 4-stroke Enduro line. With advanced Traction Control and Map selection activated with the touch of a button, controllable power is put to the ground in the most challenging terrain. As with all the models in the range, they also feature NEKEN handlebars, No-Dirt footpegs and CNCmilled hubs with GIANT rims fitted as standard equipment, encapsulating their READY TO RACE DNA. www.ktm.com.

350 EXC-F

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HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES RELEASES 2021 MODELS Continuing to set the benchmark, Husqvarna Motorcycles’ MY21

FE 501s

off-road and dual-sport range delivers true performance motorcycles that ensure superior riding experiences. A complete lineup of 2-stroke and 4-stroke machines that have been carefully designed and crafted from the ground up, each model provides ultimate off-road and dual-sport specific power, handling and enjoyment.

Husqvarna Motorcycles’ drive for constant development and refinement brings an extensive program of improvements and updates into the MY21 FE and TE range, a comprehensive line-up of models that will allow riders of all abilities to hit the trails with absolute confidence. From the TE 150i, TE 250i and TE 300i to the

FE 350s

FE 350, FE 501, FE 350s and FE 501s, the entire model range features unparalleled attention to detail and a fresh and vibrant, threecolor restyling.

Offering a generous supply of torquey, manageable power, Husqvarna Motorcycles’ off-road 4-stroke range ensures both versatility and performance. From the nimble FE 350 and its ability to shine in tough and technical terrain to the larger displacement FE 501, each model is finished with high-quality components and selectable engine mapping and traction control. The FE 501 powerplant is now equipped with updated shift lockers for 2021. www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com

TE 300i

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS • Chromium-molybdenum steel frame featuring precisely engineered flex characteristics • Innovative 2-piece carbon composite subframe design • WP XPLOR fork with advanced mid-valve piston delivering consistent damping function • WP XACT shock with integrated pressure balance offers superior rider comfort and handling • Progressive bodywork for optimal ergonomics • CNC machined triple clamps • MAGURA hydraulic clutch system offering perfect action in every condition • MAGURA brake calipers and high-performance GSK discs combining superior stopping power with unsurpassed sensitivity and modulation • Adjustable engine mappings on all off-road models and state-of-the-art traction control (4-strokes off-road models) • Electric starter for easy starting when time is critical • Progressive throttle mechanism and ODI grips adjustable throttle progression and easy grip mounting

TE 250i

FOX LEGION

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Wolfman Enduro Motorcycle Tank Bag WP The 2020 Enduro Tank Bag is completely redesigned utilizing the latest in Radio Frequency Welded (RF Welded) Seam Construction. We tailored the ever-popular Enduro Tank Bag for a more usable shape. The Enduro Tank Bag is a refined tank bag that will fit virtually all dual sport and dirt bikes, from the Suzuki DR650, DRZ400, XR 650L, the KTM EXC’s, the WR250R, and most bikes in between. A 4-point quick-release mounting keeps the Enduro Tank Bag in place during the most aggressive riding. The innovative design allows the bag to sit on the tank and not interfere with the gas cap or the vent hose. MSRP: $144.99. www.wolfmanluggage.com.

Features • New design for 2020 makes this a better fit for your bike.

• Waterproof fabric and construction make this bag ready for all-weather riding.

• New shape and mounting design mean this fits on virtually every dual sport or enduro bike.

• Easy carry handle for use off the bike.

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AGGRESSIVE SIDE LUG TECHNOLOGY Wrap-around side lugs add rigidity and durability in rocky terrain, and improve steering in sand, mud and gravel.

@RideDunlop DunlopMotorcycleTires.com. ©2020 Dunlop Motorcycle Tires.

Alpinestars SM5 Helmet The all-new SM5 helmet is the result of more than five years of intensive study, development and testing. We scrutinized every possible aspect to engineer a helmet that is safe and thoughtfully designed to deliver optimal protection and comfort. This lightweight helmet features a thermo-injected shell incorporating a special polymer blend enhanced by varying degrees of thickness that is engineered to deliver the optimal combination of impact protection and light weight, while the five density EPS liner ensures the correct density in the correct area for enhanced impact absorption.

Other key design features include an engineered raised area with padding to effectively reduce the forces transmitted to the collarbone and a patented visor release system that ensures the visor is released with the correct pre-determined amount of force, irrespective of the angle of impact. MSRP: Starting at $229.00 for solid colors and $259.95 for graphic versions. www.alpinestars.com

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SOLVE OUR 20TH ANNIVERSARY CROSSWORD PUZZLE FOR A CHANCE TO WIN!

The winner will receive a case of Engine Ice, Plastic Shine, Helmet Renew, an Engine Ice Hat & Sticker Pack.

ACROSS 1.) It’s a race team we sponsor. [16] 5.) The main active ingredient in Engine Ice. [15] 6.) It’s a newer product to the Engine Ice family that kills helmet funk. [11]

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ADVENTURE TRANSFORMED

THE NEW BENCHMARK FOR MAXIMUM OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE. Versatile and agile, with a premium speciďŹ cation, the new Tiger 900 Rally range delivers even more incredible oo-road capability, with even higher power and performance, and a new dominant adventure-focused stance for maximum oo-road adventure riding and all-road comfort and style.

The Tiger 900 Rally and higher speciďŹ cation Rally Pro both feature a new lightweight adventure chassis, advanced technology and premium equipment, plus a higher capacity 900cc triple engine, delivering 10% more torque than the previous generation, with even more torque low down, and higher overall power (94 peak horsepower) across the entire rev range.

Find out more, visit triumphmotorcycles.com

WIDE OPEN

DEADWOOD LAKE, IDAHO

PHOTO: SIMON CUDBY

WIDE OPEN

ALVORD DESERT, OREGON

PHOTO: TIM BURKE

WIDE OPEN

HELL’S BACKBONE, UTAH

PHOTO: SIMON CUDBY

WIDE OPEN

MAMMOTH LAKES, CALIFORNIA

PHOTO: SIMON CUDBY

Ténéré 700. The Next Horizon is yours.

YamahaMotorsports.com Professional rider depicted on a closed course. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, long sleeves, long pants, gloves and boots. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. ©2020 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.

WIDE OPEN

BIKE: ANDREW SHORT’S YAMAHA RACING WR450F RALLY

PHOTO: SHANNON CUDBY

WIDE OPEN

EPHRAIM, UTAH

PHOTO: OLIVIER DE VAULX

WIDE OPEN

BOISE NATIONAL FOREST, IDAHO

PHOTO: SIMON CUDBY

WIDE OPEN

COLORADO ROCKIES

PHOTO: CHAD DE ALVA

BEPPEDIENA ADV

GRAVEL-T GRAVEL-T

GRAVEL-T is our range of 100% waterproof soft bags, designed for Adventure Touring and off-road use. The GRT709 Canyon bags are a pair of soft saddlebags that give the same functionality and volume of a set of hard aluminum cases, without the weight and bulk.

They are easy to attach and remove, lockable and built to last, rugged enough to protect the side of your motorcycle from minor impacts.

MOUNTING PLATES: the included mounting plates are made of high impact nylon, and they fit the majority of side case mounts available on the market.

REMOVABLE INNER BAGS: 100% waterproof, we decided for the bright yellow fabric to make it easier to spot what you need, even in low light conditions.

M.O.L.L.E. READY: plenty of webbing on the side and on the bottom, the bags also come with a kit of 10 M.O.L.L.E. compatible clips.

GIVIUSA.COM

WIDE OPEN

NORTHERN ARIZONA

PHOTO: CHAD DE ALVA

WIDE OPEN

HORSESHOE BEND, IDAHO

PHOTO: SIMON CUDBY

WIDE OPEN

LOWMAN, IDAHO

PHOTO: SIMON CUDBY

WIDE OPEN

HURRAH PASS, UTAH

PHOTO: SIMON CUDBY

WORDS & PHOTOS: SIMON CUDBY

Dawn To Dusk U T AH AD V MIL E S F OR DA Y S

The temperature was approaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit as we made our way towards the town of Moab, Utah on our KTM 790R machines by way of the treacherous Hurrah Pass route. Mentally and physically cooked, I was ready to arrive in eastern Utah’s destination town.

Just a few days earlier, we had headed out early in the morning from our starting point in Hurricane, Utah, which is located in the very southwest corner of the state. Our group was just four riders, two of whom I had not ridden with previously. My good friend Randy Commans (@my1090R on Instagram) had invited me on this ride through central Utah. Randy’s friends Pete Postel and Rob Scapa were the organizers of our adventure, and from the very start I was just along for the ride as Pete had fully mapped out our route.

We hit the dirt almost immediately as we departed Hurricane, and with a fully loaded 790R, I was a little sketchy on the fast gravel roads at first. As the altitude increased, we found ourselves riding through green corridors of Aspen trees into the north end of Zion National Park. Entering the Dixie National Forest, the temperatures had dropped to the mid-50’s, so I layered up on my Klim jerseys to keep warm.

We were riding some fast double-track, and I struggled to keep up with the group early on the first day. As I found out later that evening around the campfire, Rob and Pete were both ex-racers, and they had no problem running at a sustained fast pace for hours on end. For an average rider like myself, it was more than a little challenging, and I ended up taking far too many risks trying to stay in touch with these guys. Interspersed with these fast sections were some rocky uphill trails that would have gotten your attention even if you were on a much smaller KTM 500EXC. I was quickly becoming fatigued.

The day wore on, and eventually, we made it by late afternoon to the Bryce Canyon area for an early dinner and to top off the big bikes with fuel. A few hours later, we found a remote camping area next to a small creek. We set up our tents and started a campfire to keep warm. Pete and Rob told me that they had been riding larger bikes on trips like this for 15 years, starting initially on KTM 950 Adventure bikes. I had camped off my bike only a handful of times, so it was good to see these veteran camping experts in action. After 11 hours on the bike, I was ready for a good night’s sleep. However, that was not to be, as I woke up every few hours for a nature break, and then before sunrise to a chilly 32 degree morning.

I added some more preload to the rear of my KTM to balance out the bike as it had probably a bit too much packed into my Mosko Moto luggage on the rear end. As we started on our second day, my bike felt much better and I was able to ride at speed with more confidence than the previous day. We went up and up on our route, only to find the trail blocked about 20 miles in by an impassable snowdrift on the 10,300ft summit. We retraced our route back down to our starting point for the day, and Pete broke out his map to find a way around to reconnect with our original journey. We had lost a few hours already, so I knew this was going to be another marathon day in the saddle.

After many miles up at higher altitudes in cold temperatures, we inevitably began descending into the 80-degree heat for a lunch stop in Boulder, Utah. With our bellies a little too full, we pushed on to get more miles in the bag. I was happy to be on the asphalt for a few minutes of riding before hitting the dirt again and heading over to Capitol Reef National Park.

As we headed through the lightly colored moonscape, I saw a sign for the Burr Trail Switchbacks. This place looked familiar, and I quickly realized that my wife and I had driven this trail in our little 4x4 truck back in 1990. With some quick math, I realized this was 30 years ago. I would never have thought back then that I would be here again riding a loaded 800cc adventure motorcycle down the treacherous descent.

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We did another big climb over a 10,600ft pass at Bull Mountain with a very loose and rocky downhill on the other side. It was late afternoon, and I was mentally and physically spent by the time we reached a road section at the foot of the descent. The temps were now up in the mid-’90s, and Pete decided to continue on pavement to the town of Blanding to get a hotel instead of traversing several more hours of dirt to find a campsite that was a little cooler. An hour later, we pulled into town for a bite to eat and a nice cold shower at the hotel. After another 11 hour ride, I had never before been so happy to see a Super 8 hotel!

I started Day 3 feeling a little under the weather after waking up at 4 am staring at the ceiling, wondering what this day would hold. Pete had said it was an “easy day,” with less than 100 miles to Moab.

We loaded up early to beat the heat and were on the road by 7:30 am, heading on the asphalt toward Monticello. Pete had mapped out today’s trail using some of the Utah BDR trails.

We came to a junction that was for the regular BDR trail. It looked like a pretty well-groomed route through the desert. Pete decided we were going to go another way to the “Experts Only” BDR option into Moab. We eventually came to the start of the expert section, and I initially thought, this isn’t too bad. Little did I know just how challenging this was going to be as the miles clicked by. The red terrain became so difficult to the point where I would have been much more comfortable on a smaller enduro bike. But I didn’t have that option, so it was time to suck it up and just do it.

We split into two pairs, so with much help from my very expert riding buddy Randy, I was able to make it through some tight sections that maxed out my physical and mental capabilities. It didn’t help that it was now pushing 100 degrees, but I was thankful that I had chosen Klim’s Mojave vented enduro gear with an Arsenal vest, rather than a set of more heavyweight full adventure gear.

The incredible landscape went on forever, and it seemed as though our pace was slowing as we encountered harder and harder obstacles. We eventually started seeing a few ATVs that had come from the Moab end of the trail, so we knew we were getting close to our destination for the day.

After the previous two days had done a mental number on me, this supposed easy day had proven to be the

most challenging for me, but pushing through this rugged and remote trail with Randy gave me a sense of accomplishment. As we rolled into the bustling little town, we met Pete and Rob sitting in the shade by a gas station drinking some big cold beverages. Pete had a smile on his face when he saw us, having fully expected to come rescue us in a side-by-side. Not today Pete. Not today.

Bikes: KTM 790 Adventure R. Gear: Klim Mojave pant, Dakar Jersey, Arsenal Vest, F5 Helmet. Scott Prospect goggles. Mosko Moto Reckless 80L luggage. Alpinestars Tech 7 Drystar boots.

ADV A/C E P I C A I R F LOW R OA D - R E A DY P R OT E C T I O N O F F- R OA D M O B I L I T Y N E W B A JA S4 JAC K E T & PA N T

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By Tim Burke

I don’t care where you stand on the smorgasbord of political issues that are plastered all over social media right now. I really don’t. We can be friends, either way. Can we all just agree that 2020 has been a complete and utter metaphorical dumpster fire? We’re on the same page on that one, right? I mean, seriously!

At this point, the only thing that hasn’t happened this year is an alien invasion. Don’t worry, five months of 2020 still remain…don’t rule aliens off your 2020 Bingo card just yet!

When I returned to the United States three months ago, I intended only to stay for two weeks. I had just finished a trip through Africa and had plans to head eastbound to Asia. I came back only to pick up the necessary visas for Russia, Pakistan, and China; the three countries that require an applicant to apply for admission from their home country. To make the process quicker, I had proactively prepared everything.

Copies of IDs, licenses, vehicle forms, insurance, and duplicates of all the aforementioned. The money orders were ready to go and I was jonesing to get back on the road. I took an Amtrak from Boston to NYC (what a sad affair compared to European train travel) to drop off my application at the Russian Consulate. From there, I hustled uptown to drop off the Chinese application. I stuffed slices of pizza in my mouth somewhere in between before heading back to Boston to catch a flight to Seattle.

It’s all a blur now, but somewhere along the way, the world seemed to fall apart! I landed at Seattle International Airport the day before the USA had its first COVID death (in Seattle, of course). In seemingly incomprehensible time, borders around the world started closing, air travel became restricted, and laughably contradictory news stories provided no reasonable foresight into what humanity had on the horizon.

I thought to myself, “Well, if I’m going to be stuck somewhere, it may as well be with my motorcycle.” Luckily, my 85,000 mile-old bike had been sitting patiently, waiting for me in Seattle.

So in the midst of the chaos, I did what every reasonable person would do. I rode my motorcycle!

As the calendar strikes July, over 7000 miles have been placed on this bike since the Pandemic began. Compared to my normal habits, this mileage isn’t above average for me, but what made these travels more unique and interesting (at least by my standards) was that almost all of it had been done “two-up!”

Natalia Plutowska (@nattplu on IG) had arrived in Seattle a few weeks after I did and had the unfortunate luck of being stuck with me the whole time.

She had just wrapped up her own 17,000 mile (27,000 km) journey from Poland to Cape Town when COVID19 started throwing wrenches into our developing plans of heading to Asia. Thinking, “Oh, that’ll blow over in a month or so,” I suggested she come to the US to explore. Here we are, a hundred small-adventures later, still anticipating what’s next.

Now, let me fill you in on some important details.

Before I started traveling, I picked up a small fixer-upper in the suburbs of Seattle. It was pretty pathetic when I first got it and stunk like cigarette smoke. I renovated it myself and put tenants in

place to cover the mortgage while I traveled. Well, once COVID struck and the economy collapsed, I decided to fold my poker hand, put my humble little investment on the market and…I sold my house! Now I can finally say that I’m truly homeless!

It was time to hit the road, and the timing of our friend Dan Shukin’s arrival was impeccable. There’s something really cool and indescribable about friendships that are built on the road. Dan, Natalia, and I had traveled in Northern Africa together, and with all of us “stuck,” we decided to meet here in Washington.

We were going to make an adventure out of this, one way or another!

Dan had rumbled into my driveway on a well-used Triumph Bonneville. He and his bike are proof that there is no right or wrong way to adventure-motorcycle. This was the Triumph that had carried Dan from Fresno, CA to Argentina and back again. Most recently, Dan had to abandon his DR650 in Turkey to return home due to the virus.

We escaped the ridiculousness of Seattle (or should I say CHAZ… or is it CHOP now?) and crossed the Cascades eastbound to a gem of a town called Leavenworth. Leavenworth and the surrounding area is adventure-riding heaven, with thousands of miles of dirt roads and trails. It’s no wonder a major German (but Seattle-based) ADV motorcycle accessory distributor (to remain nameless) holds an annual rally here!

From Leavenworth, we three reunited world travelers rode together nearly 600 miles south, to the Alvord Desert in Eastern Oregon. To cover the ground, we slabbed it down to the Portland area and jumped off the interstate near Mt. Hood. If you think Washington State has a reputation for good riding, Oregon is even better! Volcanoes on the left and desert canyons on the right, we descended into the arid regions of Eastern Oregon. The ride along the Crooked River was just incredible, with footpeg-scraping turns every hundred yards! Fly fisherman whipped their lines back and forth into the river that’s home to some of the best fishing on the West Coast.

Oregon’s gravelly Route 27 eventually dead-ends at US Highway 20, where we headed further west. The desolation of Eastern Oregon really hits you on roads like that. Even after so many years and miles on the road, it’s hard to not be appreciative of how large and geographically diverse the US is. If you point your handlebars in the right direction, it’s easy to escape – not something all continents and countries can offer.

A couple big-mileage days later (and just as Mr. Brightside started blasting in my Bluetooth), we busted into the vast expanse of the mighty Alvord Desert. For those who haven’t experienced the magic of flying across a dry lake bed on a bike at nearly the speed of sound, these types of places are unfathomable. There’s a magic to it that’s hard to put a finger on. Here, we joined forces with the Mosko Moto gang and fulfilled our moral obligation to drink beer around a campfire. At a certain point in the evening, it was time to pull away from the fire to star-gaze. Way out here, the naked eye will see things in the sky that you’d never thought were possible. There are few things that make me feel more alive than camping under a clear night sky.

The next day, after almost 2 weeks together, Dan went back to California to shop for a DR650. Conversely, Natalia and I sped off west to the Oregon Coast. The first stop (a must-stop) was Bend, Oregon. Bend is a city of under 100,000 but somehow is home to 21 breweries, a number of distilleries, bars, music venues, and literally endless outdoor recreation. It’s one of my favorite cities, and it’s worth pinning on your map if you find yourself in the top left corner of the USA. Highway 20 continues west out of Bend and climbs over the Cascade Mountains on one of the nation’s prettiest drives. We made a stop in the little town of Sisters for lunch and then kept reeling in the Pacific. The smell of the ocean hits you before the sight of it does. It had been a long time since we had seen waves crashing and open waters. To say we were excited is an understatement. Highway 20’s final destination is Newport, Oregon, at the mouth of the Yaquina River. 3,365 miles in the other direction lies my hometown of Boston, Massachusetts. Whenever and wherever I find myself on Route 20, I have to call my father and tell him to meet me for a beer, “I’m right down the street!”

When people think of the beauty of the Pacific Coast, most probably think of Big Sur and the beaches of SoCal, but I think that the Oregon Coast is simply the best. After a beer at Rogue River Brewing in Newport’s historic waterfront, we wound and twisted our way north on the iconic Route 101. Tillamook is a notable stopping point for free cheese samples and great ice cream.

Adventure awaits as you approach the northern section of the Oregon Coast. Follow the signs for Sunset Beach, let some air out of your tires, and rip along the hard-packed sand. It’s one of the few places in the country where this is allowed. About 3 miles of beach-travel will bring you to the famous wreck of the Peter Iredale. Still stuck in the sand, the Iredale was beached during a massive storm in 1906.

114 years later, its skeleton still remains. If you ever get the chance to ride here, be sure to wash off your bike with COLD water after riding it through such a salty environment.

You may not have heard of Astoria, Oregon, but I’m sure you’ve seen The Goonies which was filmed here. Astoria is one of my favorite “underrated” cities, and it takes a meander around the downtown to appreciate its charm. A few breweries and good restaurants make it worth a one or two-hour stop.

Just like that, 1600 miles rolled underneath the tires of the motorcycle. From the mountain trails above Leavenworth, WA, through the high deserts of Eastern OR and past crashing waves along the coast, the PNW offers it all in the summer.

My friends, despite the ineptness of our political leaders on both sides of the aisle, an ongoing pandemic, and financial uncertainty, the world hasn’t crumbled yet! Get out, explore, and RIDE MORE. Make the best of the time you have on this earth. It’s not going to last forever.

No helmet can protect the wearer against all foreseeable impacts. Nothing is a substitute for safe riding practices. Š2020 Arai Helmet

TESTED

BY BLAKE DRAGUESKU

Fox Racing Deluxe Tool Pack In a market saturated with gear toting products ranging from tool rolls and pocket-laden riding pants, to backpacks and chest rigs with built-in hydration, Fox Racing throws their hat into the ring with the Deluxe Tool Pack. Perhaps it was my long-time affinity for fanny packs that led me to purchasing Fox’s oversized rendition of the iconic and once-ubiquitous storage solution; or maybe it was the pack’s clean, simple, all black appearance. Either way, I ended up using it on-and-off over a year before nailing down an actual opinion on the pack when it comes to its efficacy as an “...ultimate mobile toolbox, designed to stow every trail essential you need while riding” (Fox Racing).

At just under $40, Fox’s tool pack offering is undeniably inexpensive.

The little black bag comes in at $30.00 under the price point of the waist pack made available by Klim, $10.00 under that of the pack available from Alpinestars, and $5.00 below the Fly Racing option. How does this low cost translate to quality, though? In short, I have yet to experience any sort of tears, stitch/zipper failures or broken buckles with this product, and yes, I have hit the ground a number of times while wearing it.

The shape and curvature of the tool pack’s main body allows it to sit comfortably on your waist and be worn in the front or the back. I was surprised to discover that the pack is nearly unnoticeable while riding. It does a great job of snugly distributing the weight of tools and gear on your body. In the bright blue interior of the Deluxe Tool Pack I found more than enough storage space and organizational features for my mobile tool kit. Unclipping the front buckle and opening the main flap will reveal 3 zippered pockets on the top of the pack’s body and one open pocket on the interior face of the main flap. The front most pocket is relatively small and has two smaller stretch-pockets at the back of its interior, making this storage area suitable for items such as your phone, spare GoPro batteries, goggle-cleaning solution, chapstick, etc. The second pocket is of moderate size (roughly 25cm x 15cm x 5cm) and is undivided.

This second pocket is ideal for packing tow straps, first aid equipment, snacks, and can even fit smaller cameras. The third pocket, which has roughly the same interior volume as the second pocket while closed, features double zippers that allow it to be hinged along its bottom section and opened 180º around.

TESTED: Fox Racing Deluxe Tool Pack This rearmost pocket sports the most organizational features of the three, with an array of twenty-three elastic loops for holding tools and one small mesh pocket that can be used for keeping spare hardware handy. On each side area of the waist pack is an additional small pocket (perfect size for stowing a wallet) along with 3 MOLLE loops that can be used to attach anything with a clip or strap. Two other MOLLE loops can be found on the front edges of the pack.

So, what does this all add up to? After over a year with this pack I settled on the opinion that it is a simple, effective, no-nonsense solution for carrying essential tools, gear, and consumables while out on day-rides. My only real perceived drawback is the lack of built-in hydration, but tossing a hydration pack in the second pocket alleviates that issue very easily. The Fox Racing Deluxe Tool Pack represents an uncomplicated, unembellished product floating in a sea of high-cost, high-gimmick “solutions� for carrying gear while on the bike, and if simplicity is your goal, then this might just be the waist pack for you. MSRP: $39.95. www.foxracing.com

TESTED

BY CHAD DE ALVA

MO T O MINDE D T or c h He l me t L E D K i t The Torch Helmet LED system is what you get when the folks who make some of the best dirt bike LED headlight mounts take on helmet lighting. MotoMinded is known for their mounts that enable riders to mount some of the best LEDs on the planet as dirtbike headlights, and now they’ve figured out how to apply that same winning formula to helmet lighting. So if you’ve ever found yourself out on a ride after dark with only a stock headlight to get you home, or you just want to be able to see where you’re looking while riding at night, know that the Torch will completely redefine your nighttime riding experience. Stated plainly, the Torch Helmet LED system is what you need to own the night on your motorcycle.

Available as either a single or dual LED lighting system that can be powered by your bike or from an Antigravity Jump-Starter battery, the Torch is incredibly versatile. MotoMinded uses a customized Baja Designs S1 LED for each Torch Helmet light, and these lights pack a ridiculous amount of power into a small package. Measuring just a couple of inches on a side and weighing in at less than a half of a pound, the S1 is a light you must see in action to fully appreciate. There are so many LEDs on the market with questionable build quality, components, and more often than not, totally made up light output numbers, but Baja Designs makes some of the best lights out there. Lighting is one of those products that you get what you pay for, and you’ll find Baja Designs lights on the top shelf. MotoMinded has taken these awesome Baja Designs LEDs and created a versatile and effective mounting system that integrates seamlessly with your bike and riding gear.

Each Torch LED mounts to a flat or curved adhesive-backed magnetic base that is placed on your helmet. The magnetic bases allow you to quickly and easily remove the lights when they’re not in use, and the magnets allow the light to breakaway in the event of a crash, or if you hit something while riding. The mounts can also be tilted, rotated, raised or lowered so that you can point the beam exactly where you want it. If you’ve ever discovered the hard way that you didn’t get your GoPro mount pointing straight forward on your helmet, you won’t have that problem with the Torch. You can get the aim dialed in, even if your mounting base didn’t end up where you intended to place it. Setting the screws on the mount to snug will allow you to grab and aim the lights while you’re riding too, so you can adjust your light to match your riding conditions. The magnet mounts work great, just get the Torch close to the base and the magnet will take care of the rest.

TESTED: Torch Helmet LED Kit Powering the Torch from your bike is about as easy as it gets. All you need to do on a KTM or Husky EFI bike (check with MotoMinded for bike-specific compatibility) is install the included power connector in line between your headlight and bike’s wiring harness. Simply remove your headlight mask, locate the headlight power cable, unplug it, and add in the MotoMinded connector before plugging everything back in and re installing the headlight mask. Then run the Torch power cable up to your bars where you can easily access it. When it’s time to use the Torch, simply plug in the power cable that feeds your lights. MotoMinded has intentionally designed the Torch with multiple cable connections so that in the event that you need to part ways with your bike, the power cable will not try to keep you connected to the bike. Think of a tether for a jet ski or a snowmobile and you’ll get the idea.

Alternatively, the Torch can be powered using a battery pack carried by the rider. MotoMinded sells the Antigravity Batteries Micro-Start XP-10, which is a vehicle jump starting battery that also happens to have ports that enable it to power LED lights. With the XP-10, you can power a single Torch for four hours, or the XP-10 will keep a dual Torch system running for a couple of hours. Plus, the XP-10 enables you to use your Torch system anywhere you need light, which expands the functionality of the Torch exponentially. If your bike does not have the spare power on tap for a Torch system, running the battery pack is a great alternative to having to play with your bike’s electrical bits.

Whether you’re running the Torch off of your bike or from a battery, setup for a ride takes just a few seconds. Simply snap the light(s) on to the bases which live on your helmet, make a few cable connections, and get back to riding.

That’s all there is to it. Even with the XP-10 battery, everything you need can easily be carried in a riding backpack, so bringing a Torch with you to be prepared for a ride that could run late isn’t hard at all. MotoMinded has even included an in line switch with each light, so you can turn your light(s) off with just the press of a button instead of having to chase down a cable to disconnect.

Riding with a single Torch Helmet light will completely change your opinion of night riding, and using two Torch lights will make you feel even more comfortable in the dark. Even with the best headlight on the front of your bike, having a light source that’s pointed in the same direction that you’re looking is the key to feeling in control while riding at night.

Whether you’re trying to look to the corner exit on a big sweeper, or trying to not ride off a cliff on some exposed singletrack, having light that’s not constrained to the direction your bike is pointing is everything when it comes to not outrunning your lights at night. The Torch makes riding singletrack at night fun — and you’ll find that you’re more focused on riding when you can only see what is illuminated by the massive serving of light provided by the Torch. I’ve even found the Torch to be very helpful on my ADV bike when I’m out after dark.

More light means more time to see things at night that can ruin your ride if you hit them. Deer, downed trees, and other obstacles are all easier to see when you’ve got light shining where you’re looking. Once you ride with lights on your helmet at night, you’ll wonder how you ever rode without them.

TESTED: Torch Helmet LED Kit The MotoMinded Torch Helmet LED system is awesome. It’s a well thought out helmet lighting system that’s made using top shelf components, and it quite literally can make a night and day difference in your nighttime riding experience.

Getting into a torch system isn’t cheap, but if you want to ride at night it’s something that will be worth every penny the first time you use it. A single Torch LED can make a world of difference, and it’s so small that it can easily ride in your pack, which makes it easy to bring along for that extra measure of safety and confidence should your ride last into the night. If you are racing, or someone who really likes to push it at night, get the dual LED system. Picking up a XP-10 battery with your Torch setup is also a great move, as the battery allows you to use your Torch on any bike, and anywhere else you need a serious amount of light. If I had to guess, I would expect to see more mounts coming from MotoMinded in the future for the Torch, which would only increase the utility of this product. Yet even in their current state, the Torch Helmet LED lighting system is the way to go for helmet lighting, and the key to fully enjoying the awesome experience that is night riding. www.motominded.com

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

BY SIMON CUDBY

Alpinestars Tech 7 Drystar Boots We’ve been long time fans of the Alpinestars Tech 10 and Tech 7 boots for our riding adventures. Our go-to for more technical rides on our 500cc dual sports has been the Tech 10 with the internal bootie for extra support. On our longer, big-bike ADV trips, we always went with the waterproof Corozal boot, but wished that this very comfortable option had a little more protection. Enter the Drystar Tech 7 Enduro. Based on the proven original Tech 7, Alpinestars have upped the ante by incorporating a ‘Drystar’ waterproof membrane along with a grippy sole design.

For review purposes, I rode with the boots on two very different bikes, in two very different places. First, I tried them on our Husqvarna FE501 in the local Idaho mountains to test the waterproof features through numerous water crossings. Right out of the box these boots were quite comfortable, with a very brief break-in period until I felt fully confident with my shifting and braking. We had chosen a trail with five or six small river crossings immediately from our parking spot. I know that if I had my regular Tech 10 boots on I would have had soggy socks, but not with the Drystar boots. I actually stood in shin deep water for several minutes while snapping some photos of my riding buddy. Verdict…no leaks!

A few weeks later we headed to the much warmer climate of central Utah on our big bikes for a multiday trip. I was riding the KTM 790 AdventureR, curious to see how the Tech 7 Drystar’s would handle the triple-digit temperatures and the larger bike. One of the other riders on this trip noticed that my boots were waterproof, saying, “Oh, you’re gonna cook!” Fortunately for me, I didn’t really notice these boots being hotter than any others I have worn, even in 100-degree heat. Straddling the 790 for multiple days didn’t have any effect on how comfortable the boots were either.

Overall, the Tech 7 Drystar Enduro boots performed well for me on both Idaho single track and Utah red rock. After testing these in such different environments, I am confident we’ll be choosing to ride with these boots in a wide variety of conditions. Alpinestars has truly made an all-around waterproof boot, not only for enduro trail riding, but also for multi-day ADV rides. MSRP: $419.95 www.alpinestars.com

TESTED: Alpinestars Tech 7 Drystar Boots

PERFECTING OUR

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BECAUSE IT HAS TO WORK PRECISION+PASSION Crash Bars • Skid Plates • Center Stands Pannier Racks • Rear Luggage Racks

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WORDS AND PHOTOS BY CHAD DE ALVA

SPRINGTIME IN COLORADO

When I read the pages of Upshift Online, I commonly find myself daydreaming about being in the awesome locations where the stories take place. Whether it’s Tim Burke traveling end to end on some distant continent, or another contributor sharing their story of adventure in a faraway land, it’s easy to find yourself wanting to go on an epic adventure just like those you’re reading about. However, just as the daydream starts to get good, reality always has a way of reminding you of… well… reality. In my case, I’m a thirty-something dad with a mortgage, and while I certainly could decide that I need to spend the next month exploring some faraway exotic locale for “work,” my wife and

SP RING T IME IN C OL OR ADO

kids would probably appreciate my presence and support. Disappearing for weeks on end probably won’t increase my chances for Dad of the Year. Yet, being constrained closer to home does not mean that you cannot get your fill of adventure on your dirt bike. Thanks to some crazy weather and a chance to revisit the map of my backyard, I recently spent three days having an absolute blast riding within a couple hours from home.

The rain arrived around lunchtime. By happy hour it was raining so hard that flooding was becoming an issue for folks who had to take the highway home, and by dinnertime mother nature had made it abundantly clear that the rain was not going to stop any time soon. Additionally, the wind picked up, which gave the rain even better coverage across the landscape.

The next morning, it was still raining and the wind had taken to blowing down trees all over the place. Fun fact: a damaging windstorm is called a derecho. Radar maps were completely covered with an angry red blob that left little doubt as to what the weather was going to do for the next few hours, so Adam and I opted for extra coffee, a little wrench time, and a chance to review the map to figure out where we should go enjoy all of the hero dirt that was going to spring up after the rain passed.

Early season riding in the mountains can be tricky, as some trails open in June and others open in July. In addition to varied season dates, many trails may still have impassible snowbanks and plenty of downed trees that need clearing. These factors can add a fun new dynamic to trails that you’ve been down a zillion times, but don’t assume that because the trail is in season it has been cleared.

As with all good wrenching sessions, our quick couple-hour long project grew into a half day affair that stretched into the afternoon. Thankfully, the rain had finally checked out at lunchtime, so by the time we had Adam’s bike back on the ground, the dirt had received a few hours of full sun and conditions were prime. We made a move for a quick pass ride with the last few hours of daylight we had left to see how Adam’s 300 was working after our hours of tuning. Nothing like a few thousand feet of elevation gain to test new settings.

Riding mountain passes early in the season is a very different experience than riding them after they’ve been open for a few the narrow shelf roads, things are decidedly more obstacle strewn; but this is what makes them so much fun. It’s like riding a familiar trail but someone increased the difficulty level by adding assorted rocks and miscellaneous avalanche debris to the trail. There’s also the chance that you’ll run into some snow.

In our case, we were stopped cold by a massive snowbank a couple miles short of the summit. We were able to log a few thousand feet of climbing and a couple dozen miles of riding, which was exactly the test we needed to verify the changes we had made to Adam’s bike and to enjoy a quick evening ride. Our plan for the next day was an all-day singletrack mission on a trail system I hadn’t ridden in far too long. We were stoked to get into it.

We had been riding for maybe three minutes before I officially decided that I liked Adam’s buddy Stephen. At our first creek crossing, maybe a half mile in, Stephen had stopped the ride to ask if he could try something. There was a rock in the trail that provided an ideal launchpad should somebody attempt to jump the creek we had just crossed. Never one to miss out on a chance to capture a guinea-pig attempt on camera, I quickly hunted for a shot while Stephen rode back up the trail.

He made several attempts to clear the creek, but each time he came splashing down in the rocky stream bed. Stephen didn’t end up clearing the creek, but the energy that he brought to the ride would set the tempo for a killer day on the bike. This former Rhode Islander grew up racing where the woods are actually tight, and out in the comparatively wide-open Aspen trees, Stephen was able to carry some serious speed.

SP RING T IME IN C OL OR ADO

weeks. Before thousands of tires can wear smooth paths into

Somehow, all of the rain from the last couple of days had completely missed this part of the world, but dusty trails did little to dampen our stoke for being out riding in such an awesome trail system. Located in the middle of an expansive chunk of GMUG National Forest, this trail network has miles and miles of fast, flowy singletrack and other multi-use trails that weave through endless groves of aspen trees and flower-carpeted meadows. It’s the kind of place that would take days to ride everything. It’s also a place that got rocked by the derecho and we lost count

SP RING T IME IN C OL OR ADO

of the number of downed trees we had to deal with. A serious shout out goes to the locals we ran into who were clearing the trails. I was wishing I still had my chainsaw mount on the front of my bike as we were stopped by one downed tree after another. Yet, with a couple of hand saws and switching off between who was cutting, we were still able to clear a number of trees from the trail ourselves. Stopping to clear them, however, severely impacted our pace. Eager to cover more ground, we rode right through lunch and well into the afternoon.

A couple of times on our ride, we used 50-inch doubletrack trails to link sections of singletrack together. Thanks to their bermed corners and monster drainage ditches, these wider trails are like mini motocross tracks and they are an absolute hoot to ride. I felt like I was in Eastern Idaho riding the extensive trail systems where Klim hosts their Cow Tag ride, yet my house was just an hour away.

Despite the dust and downed trees, the riding was so good that I felt guilty for not spending more time riding here. It just goes to show you, the trails are out there, you just have to find them. Riding after a storm also makes for great opportunities to practice riding over obstacles, and we took full advantage of a number of trees that were too big to cut with our hand saws.

All too soon we were back at the truck and loading up after a killer day of riding. The three of us were all in agreement that with a little bit of rain to pack the dirt down, this trail system would be next level and we couldn’t wait to go back.

My final day of riding ended up being a solo day, as adulting commitments kept Adam occupied with more responsible endeavors. Once again, I spent some time studying the map and decided to go revisit another trail that I hadn’t had the chance to ride in a long time.

The quickest way to get to this trail was over a different mountain pass, which would make this ride a quintessential singletrack. According to the weather forecast, it was also supposed to start snowing in the afternoon, with several inches of accumulation expected by nightfall. Knowing from experience that weather above tree-line is no joke, I shoved a full rain kit into my pack and set off.

There’s just something about riding pass roads that never gets old. The way these narrow shelf roads allow you to move through country so steep that the topo lines all but merge together is an experience that you can enjoy again and again. Safety people would point out that you’re just one wrong move away from falling hundreds or thousands of feet to a certain death or dismemberment, but I think these roads are some of the coolest things man has ever made; well that and fuel injected dirt bikes that still crush it, even when you’re measuring elevation with a fifth digit. Knowing full well that I had to get back up and over the same pass with a storm brewing, I did something I almost never do, I left my camera stowed in my pack so I could just ride.

SP RING T IME IN C OL OR ADO

Colorado Dual Sport ride: passes plus

SP RING T IME IN C OL OR ADO

The singletrack I was after started by working its way through a dark stand of timber, and so it wasn’t long before I ran into my first downed tree. Thankfully it was a small pine, but I couldn’t ignore the threat of the giant dead snag that this little tree had fallen next to. If a tree that big fell down, I wasn’t cutting it out. I just hoped that the steadily increasing wind gusts wouldn’t bring down a monster like that behind me. I made quick work of the pine and continued riding.

SP RING T IME IN C OL OR ADO

The trail was in such amazing shape, it was like someone had groomed it just for my ride.

The rain that had fallen a couple of days prior had delivered the promised hero dirt and it was game on.

I enjoyed every foot of that trail. Each downed tree was a roadblock in the way of singletrack perfection, but determined to harvest more of this awesome riding, I hauled out the saw and cleared each tree I found. The upside to doing all this cutting would be an unobstructed ride back, and conditions were so good that I was happy to put the work in. Before long, the trail had climbed its way up to tree-line and I was done using my saw. Now in the open alpine tundra I got a good look at the sky.

Just as I glanced up, a snowflake hit my googles and things were looking dark and stormy toward home. I decided to push it a little further into the basin to see if I could find a real reason to turn back — something like a snowbank blocking the trail or a creek that was too deep to attempt crossing solo. I found my answer a short while later. A snowbank that seemed to go on forever completely swallowed the trail, with only a single set of boot tracks to give me a clue that the trail actually continued further. With the end of the trail known, I pointed my bike back the way I came and headed for home.

SP RING T IME IN C OL OR ADO

Riding back into the timber brought a temporary break from the snowfall, but I knew I would see the snow again on the exposed areas of the pass. Being in the mountains when the weather is turning adds another dimension to the ride. It was the icing on the cake to an epic, but quick singletrack ride.

With good gear, you can enjoy riding in almost any weather conditions, and I know for a fact that I was grinning the entire way over the pass, especially when I was making having so much fun that I linked a few extra dirt roads into my route back to the house, just because. It’s not every day that you get to ride awesome singletrack with hero dirt followed by a pass ride in a snowstorm.

Dirt bikes are simply awesome. Whether you are out for a quick evening rip or an all-day safari, it’s hard not to have an excellent time while you’re out riding. It doesn’t matter if you are rolling solo, with your usual squad, or riding with new folks for the first time. Each is its own adventure, and riding with new people will help you learn and grow as a rider whether you are teaching or trying to keep up. The call of distant riding adventures in exotic locations is a real thing. Every time I’ve traveled to go ride, I’ve had a great time.

But on the other hand, I’m continually humbled by how much enjoyment can be found just a quick haul or a short dual sport ride away from home. Great riding can be found anywhere, and sometimes you just need to take another look at the map or look at the landscape with a new set of eyes. Next time you’re on a local adventure, take a second to appreciate where you are, the people you are with, and that you are out having fun on your dirt bike.

SP RING T IME IN C OL OR ADO

new tracks in the fresh snow. I may have been

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R O YA L

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H I M A L AYA N

YO U D O N ’ T N E E D T O S P E N D A L O T T O G E T L O S T

WORDS: FREDDY LEX X

PHOTOS: SIMON CUDBY

It’s a never-ending race of one-upmanship amongst motorcycle manufacturers with bigger, faster, and more capable adventure bikes ruling the roads. But what about folks who aren’t keen on doling upwards of $15,000 on a new ADV rig? Royal Enfield entices would-be adventurers with its simple, handsome, and affordable 2020 Himalayan, ringing in at $4749.

Named after the tallest and arguably most rugged mountain range, the Himalayan is a British designed, and Indian assembled light-duty dual-sport bike. It is powered by a simple 411cc air-cooled single and drinks fuel from a 3.96-gallon tank. Fuel-injection and electric-start make it easy to get rolling, even if treading in the oxygen-deprived mountains it’s coined after.

Power is delivered to a 17-inch spoked wheel through a five-speed transmission, manual clutch, and left-hand side-chain final drive. An aluminum skid plate shields the engine from harm when testing the limit of its 8.6inch ground clearance.

With 24.5 claimed horsepower, the Enfield isn’t going to win any drag races, but that’s okay. If you’re fresh into a motorcycle-riding career or don’t desire the amusement park-like acceleration rush that many liquid-cooled motorcycles are capable of, the RE fits the bill.

What it does deliver is a mellow stream of propulsion netting friendly launches away from stoplights. Substantial vibration is felt through the controls— enough to cloud the vision of the rearview mirrors. The overall dynamic is more rudimentary feeling as to other name brand bikes. But then again, what name brand offers a new street-legal adventure bike for less than five grand, with a two-year warranty? Enough said.

The Himalayan is capable of freeway speeds, but we wouldn’t say quick-paced touring-style riding is its “happy place.” Instead, it is most comfortable cruising at moderate highway speeds. In a hurry? This isn’t the bike for you.

Compared to other contemporary bikes, at any price, the Enfield’s braking performance is crude and under-performing. A considerable tug of the brake lever is required to shed speed— strange considering the size of its 300mm front disc, twin-piston caliper, and typically higher-quality stainless steel brake hose plumbing. ABS takes the worry out of aggressive brake application with it mitigating wheel lockup no matter how hard the brake lever or pedal is yanked — a plus for novice riders. Furthermore, the rear ABS function can be disabled when riding off-road for improved control.

Sitting on the Himalayan reveals a motorcycle that will fit a range of riders, both short and tall. The rider seat height is reasonable (31.5in) and the slim powertrain makes for a narrow and easy-tostraddle bike. It weighs 439 pounds with a full tank of fuel. On the road, it feels lighter than its curb weight implies. The handlebar is a tad narrow, but its bend is suitable for a majority of riders and conditions. The windscreen does an adequate job of blocking wind and making for a more comfy ride.

The fork offers nearly eight inches of suspension travel, with just over seven inches available out back. The suspenders do a fine job of filtering bumps and generally work well on most surfaces.

It is undoubtedly on the soft side, but that’s okay.

Rolling on a real dirt bike-sized 21-inch front wheel, the Himalayan is capable of treading beyond the pavement. The wheel size helps it climb over obstacles — the problem is it lacks the muscle to power through the rough stuff. But then again, if you’re seeking a friendly riding steed with mule-like capability, this Indian-made bike is up for the task.

The OE-fitted Pirelli MT60 tires get the job done and are well-matched to the RE’s capability. Of course, riders that want to travel well off the beaten path can fit a more aggressive front tire. However, matching rear tire options will be more difficult to source due to its road-oriented 17-inch wheel size (18-inch wheel fitment would expand off-road tire options).

Instrumentation is functional and has all the basics. However, the display appears a tad hokey-pokey versus the more slick-looking LCD and/or color displays used on other bikes.

Still, we can’t knock it too hard based on its price.

In terms of affordability, you simply can’t beat what Royal Enfield offers with its Himalayan.

It is a worthwhile option for casual riders looking to occasionally dab into the world of motorcycling, without much wallet risk. Full-time American riders, on the other hand, will likely bemoan its meager performance and rough around the edges build quality. But if you can live with those gripes, Royal Enfield has 120 dealerships in the US and Canada if you want to experience the nostalgic feel of an Enfield.

LIVE DRAWING

July 31, 2020 Special thanks to:

Support BDR and you could win this KTM Donating as little as $25 towards the BDR mission puts you in the running to win the ultimate BDR machine. The winner takes home this 2020 KTM 790 Adventure R plus tons of upgrades, accessories and gear including: • WP XPLOR PRO Suspension with Cone-Valve Forks • Special BDR Edition Graphics • Touratech Protection and Luggage Systems • Cyclops Aurora LED Auxiliary Lighting Kit • Touratech Aventuro Traveller Modular Helmet • KLIM Baja 4 Suit • MoskoMoto Nomad Tank Bag • CruzTOOLS RoadTech Kit for KTM • Doubletake Adventure Mirrors Plus, we included a complete collection of BDR Butler Maps!

Get full details and enter to win at:

www.WinKTM790.com © 2020 Backcountry Discovery Routes. All rights reserved. Backcountry Discovery Routes and BDR are registered trademarks. Backcountry Discovery Routes is a 501c(3) non-profit organization.

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