Frequently Asked Questions About An Expedition Event
1. Is my bike suitable?
- It's not so much the bike, as it is the rider. Your skills will determine if
your bike is suitable. If you are a new rider, or have limited experience in
dual sport or off-road type activities, we'll kindly ask you to wait until you
hone your riding skills.
If you're an old enduro dog or have experience in long distance touring
on a variety of terrains, this may be right up your alley.
It's not that it will be overly technical, but it will test your limits. And
these events are no place to find out your limits. Those that know them
before they ride will be able to manage their participation in a safer manner.
We don't want an over-enthusiastic newbie that feels they need to impress.
We want seasoned riders who know how to survive.
We'll be covering upwards of 250 miles a day, at an average speed of
30mph +/-. Plus stopping for sights, pictures, lunch and so on. Do the math
as to the length sample riding day...it's tough, especially when they're back
to back to back to back to back...you get the picture...
2. How should I prep my bike?
There are a couple of things that need to be taken care of before an
expedition and if not, it can ruin your trip (and waste a lot of time for the
other participants as well)
a. Battery: Should be knew in the past year. Nothing worse than a sour
battery and your bike not starting.
b. Chain and Sprockets: Make sure they are relatively new with plenty
of life. Don't show up with curved sprocket teeth and your chain tensioner at
it farthest setting. You ain't gonna make it. Oh, and make sure you have a
masterlink!
c.Tires: Make sure you have plenty of tread, and they are in good
shape. We recommend a new set of tires and heavy-duty tubes for an
Expedition.
d. New oil and filter, do an airfilter service, make sure your cables are
lubed and in working order, all lights work, nuts and bolts are tight, muffler
firmly secured. Go over your bike from front to back and check everything.
Don't take it for granted. It's a safety procedure!
3. What type of tires should I have?
Tires are a personal choice and what you run is up to you. On our
Dixie Guide Bikes we run Duro Medians, Dunlop 606 series D.O.T.
approved knobbies, and Kenda K270.
4. I don't have a large gas tank, will I run out of gas?
We usually plan on stopping for gas every 100 miles or so. We can
make more frequent stops in cases of bikes with smaller tanks, as we will be
passing fuel stations along the way. There will always be an opportunity for
gas and to stretch your legs!
5. What do I need to pack?
Plan on travelling lightly. For the multi-day Expeditions we ask that you
only bring what you need: riding clothes, socks, undergarments, shirts,
casual wear (shorts/jeans for dinners), changes of shirts, and toiletries,
medications, etc. Travel bags need to be small, no large gear bags! Room
is limited. Hotels along the way will have laundry facilities if needed. For the
2-day Expeditions, just what you need from one day to the next plus
something for dinner.
6. Do I need to carry things on my bike?
You will need to bring a rain suit, plus any other items you believe you
may need, such as tools, tubes, snacks, water, lip balm, skin lotion, small
towel, camera, sun block, etc. Some folks carry items in a backpack, tail
pack, fanny pack, tank bag, tank panniers, saddlebags, etc. It's up to you,
but there will be items you will need to bring., and the support truck is not
with the group the entire time.
Guide bike will have a small tool set, a 21"tube, and a basic first aid kit.
7. What happens if my bike breaks?
There are repair shops, but they are few and far between. That is why
it is necessary for your bike to be in good repair and maintained. These are
events of endurance, survival, and a level of self-sufficiency. We may be
able to transport your bike to a shop, but from there it's up to you.
8. What if I get tired or fatigued along the way?
Our number one priority is for your safety. Though we can not
guarantee your safety, we don't want anything to happen to you!
Fatigue (and dehydration) is serious. It clouds judgement and inhibits
riding skills. If you begin to feel tired, let the guide know! We will be able to
take an extended break, or we can point you in an easy, paved direction to
our next destination and meet you at the hotel! It's about fun!
If need be, a Guide may make that decision for you, and refuse to let
you continue on the predetermined route. You may be pointed in a easier
direction, or the Guide may call for the support truck to take you there.
Safety is our first priority, and your honesty in your abilities is required! We
ask that you be honest with yourself, for your own safety, and the safety of
the other Expedition members. Know when you have reached your limit and
call it a day. No one wants to see you get hurt.
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