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Just came across your channel. Nice video. I haven't checked out your list of videos so you may have covered this. One thing that I haven't seen covered (although I'm sure it's out there) for new riders is the balance between the best bike & gear vs what are you willing to leave behind. The reality is most riders will never consider & will never be in a situation where they'll have to walk-out & leave behind everything due to a catastrophic break down or watch as your bike & kit float away after falling into a river ravine. But the reality is, it happens pretty regularly around the world. Unfortunately, some riders have perished because they weren't willing to walk-out and leave their 40k of bike & kit or dove into moving water to try & save a fully loaded bike while still wearing full gear. Definitely a darker ADV topic but something that has to be considered beforehand & before emotions take over. Anyway, just my two cents.
Sorry Dork, might have posted this on one of your other great videos'. The weight of these monsters 1,200cc "dirt" bikes is your worst enemy off road! And when you fall over, as you will, (don't kid yourself), you have to wait for your buddies to get these pigs unstuck and picked up. Do yourself a favour and pick a bike that does not weight three tons! These 1,200cc '"Adventure" bikes in reality can be a "Nightmare" bikes for ordinary riders! Not fun at all! They will reduce grown men to tears. Don't be fooled watching these factory Paris to Dakkar riders on TV! They are on another planet from you and I. A Suzuki DR400S will get you anywhere - and be fun!
Early on I got out and enjoyed a long day and found out how cold the ride home could be. Several times i found myself a long way from home after dark and the jacket I had on was not nearly warm enough. Wind chill is a bitch.
Hey great video, i was wondering about boot for adv offroad, ive got Sidi Adventure 2 would they be adequate to protect me? they are not fully stiff like enduro boots.
Moral of the story, never ride a 450lb bike in the dirt,Tenere 700 etc, or youl be laying it down more than a hooker on payday, stick with a 450 motocross or less or a Dualsport at 260 lbs at most..
I subscribed to that guy above simply because he does not discourage others, or make others feel stupid as other RUclipsr bikers do ... "Do not let people project their insecurities onto you." is 100% good advice indeed
@Bill3558 Legend...I'm 50 now and reckon I have 30 years of riding left in me. People like you inspire me. My next bike is a Transalp, and I'll be touring the Alps and Pyrennes in this incredible bike. Safe riding my friend.
We need more people like you telling new adv riders not to worry about the gatekeeping and just get out there and do it - we all suck at something in our own special way.
Me too... They are great to get me through New England winters, but when the weather breaks it can be hard sometimes to put down the phone, get on my bike, and take off. I wish there were more trails closer to where I live is another reason why I'm drawn to YT'rs... Takes me places I might not otherwise get to.
Good video mate, if I could tell a beginner getting into any form of gravel to enduro riding it would certainly be 1. BOOTS 2.standup 3. look ahead 4. ride at the speed you're comfortable with no matter much slower it is to others around you. If you can spend 3k on your dual sport you can spend 300-500 on boots and you should - spend less on the bike and buy a good set of boots - if you're work depends on being able to walk - seriously - boots :) All excellent points you raised too man. One thing I would add to new riders is to buy the absolute smallest/lightest weight bike you're willing to own if you do decide you want to do more than gravel - the 'willing' comment is key as many will want a 900 twin and that's cool whatever makes you happy right :) but IN ALL CASES if you can live with a lighter bike's road manners (dr650/400/wr250r/crf300l) just understand the risk of injury and reward of riding enjoyment off road is inversly proptional to bike weight until you are a far far far more skilled rider than 99% of the adv community is - it's humbling to us all but important for new riders watching stuff like Pol & Chris Birch to understand - no one looks down on the drz400 owner doing a 10000km trip across the country - they tip their cap to the dude that understands his abilities and embraces the bikes' crappy road manners for the wicked fun, low stress, affordable, lower risk, capable adventures they can have anywhere anytime without the fear of braking their tibia under a 230kg ADV bike falling over at 5kph. Just some perspective for new riders from an experienced one :) *if you want a 130hp 230kg bike that is cool too - but the facts are important to know before you drop your own cash and hurt yourself. Ride safe - most fun you can have on this earth :)
Good advice on lighter bikes. One thing every dirt rider needs to learn is how to react when you lose it, knowing how & when to fall off the bike is an art. Newer riders might try to save it when they go past the control point, & that's just a recipe for injury, getting pinned or hit by your bike hurts a lot more than the fall.
Start with an older machine. Spend a day at a motocross track with a track bike to get a feel for dirt. Learn to put weight on the front for turns and back for traction. Don't ride alone. Better to trailer to the trail and have tools close by.
GREAT video, especially for folks contemplating Adventure riding. My first bike was a KLR650 when I turned 70 years old. I'm now 80 and on my second KLR. What you say are some of the most relevant thoughts I've had over the past 10 years. Some I way over estimated their importance (as you suggest) and a few I underestimated. The importance of riding loose off-road and the need and value of good riding boots are especially relevant suggestions in my case. But, all your thoughts are spot on for Adv riding.
I will add onto the "run what you brung" thing. I ride a '79 KZ750B. It's a UJM motorcycle, and the only bike I have ever owned. I have torn these carbs apart on the side of the road more times than I can count. But, I know how to fix these carbs with my eyes closed. My bike is very much self-servicable aside from tires, which even tire machines struggle with for my wheels. As long as you are willing to learn some things about how to care for your machine, you will realize they are a lot more capable than you'd expect. I run a Shinko touring tire on that bike, and it has gotten me up numerous fire roads, both gravel and dirt. It has done perfectly fine in those conditions for what it is. The only thing I have struggled with on these tires is mud, which is to be expected. But, it's a year round, all weather commuting vehicle for me. Just try your best, and you can have an adventure with anything
I'm 68 and started riding bikes on the dirt when I was 15. I've raced motocross and prefer to be riding through the bush than on a highway. I think one of the most important observations you made was for new rider just to get out there and travel at their own pace. You are not Pol Teres or the equivalent and may never be, so don't think you are or you will definitely find out what dirt tastes like. Just enjoy the day and ride safely so that you have many others to come.
I bought a used 2012 vstrom that was absolutely immaculate with only 9000 km, still had the original rear tire on it, the bike had never been off road...that changed the first day. The bike now looks its age 20000km and more drops than I count later.
There are a huge number of RUclips channels that I have no respect for. The worst are ‘reviews’ after spending 10 minutes on a bike. And a bike, or any other item, that a manufacturer has given them or loaned them. RUclips is full of that crap. It’s not just motorcycles, it’s everything that I’m into. Fishing, camping, 4x4ing, kayaking. And once in a while you stumble across a channel like yours. Somebody who actually owns and USES what he reviews. A person you can trust to give you good advice. I’m not a novice motorcyclist, I’ve ridden for 50 years. Ever since I could climb aboard a minibike. You are a fantastic resource for new riders. Much respect for what you are giving back to the community.
hell yea brotha. Ive been riding a cruiser for 17 years, the swap to dual sport is a learning curve. I just turned 45, so keep it goin! be safe and keep the rubber side down!
Another great video, In my younger days I rode a 2000 XR 600 Honda and had a blast. Now I'm 66 (23 years later) and just bought a 2023 KLR and am riding on and Offroad in Arizona desert . I feel like my brain, balance and physical ability is improving every time I go out, It's amazing. I watch so many of your videos to give me the knowledge I need today to to get back into this great sport. Keep up the great work it is sooooo much appreciated.. Carl...
Dork, , thanks for all of your encouragement to us newbie riders, you have inspired me to get my ass onto a motorcycle and into the great outdoors of our beautiful state of Oregon. I plan to video my journey, and hopefully we will cross paths on the trail someday. Stay safe, and continue your path of educational direction for us new rider's.
Man, Oregon is a beautiful state. Lived out there in a camper last summer while the wife was working a hospital contract. I would love to get back out there on a motorcycle, it's a long way from CT, though! You'll love it!
Dork have you ever made it to the east coast to ride?! I’m in PA and want to do the MABDR but have no one to ride with.. Come out and be my real-life riding buddy! Lol😊
Good video, and all the points you made are legit. I started riding 35 years ago, but not off pavement. I bought a DR650 near 5 years ago for commuting to work because it's all gravel road and my Softail is not good on gravel, I now have about 12,000 miles of gravel/dirt road behind me now. I have to say that probably the hardest thing to learn and get accustomed to riding gravel, similar would apply to dirt is that the bike is going to move! Don't fight it, let it move, it'll feel squirrelly at first but that's how it is. At 40 mph a bike does not want to fall over even if it may "feel" like it, it just wants to stay upright and go straight. Due to wanting just one bike that can do everything well I ordered a 2023 Africa Twin Adventure Sports in the fall and it will be here for the start of this years riding season. I'm in my mid fifties and this summer I am taking my first real holiday going motorcycle camping.
This is great insight and generally agree. It reminds me of the David Foster Wallace quote - "You'll stop caring what people think about you when you realize how seldom they do". ADV riding is so easy to get wrapped up in your image and how you think things should happen that it is sooo easy to miss out on the experience as you've said.
Yesterday I completed a Level 1 BMW off road course in the Brecon Beacons, Wales. I learnt so much it’s going to take months of practice. The skills involved riding an R1250GS are amazing. My one regret is simple, I did not realise how much work my slow control skills needed practise. I shall be doing hundreds of u turns and slaloms every week till my next course. Thanks for the video
I watched this video as I lay here recovering from surgery on a broken ankle that I got as a souvenir from my lack of riding skill / comfort in deep sand while in Baja. Even though I had some good riding boots, stuff happens and got my foot twisted under the bike. That happened three days into a 15 day trip. A couple of your points in particular were spot-on: riding with others who make up a good support group and the proper gear are what allowed me to finish the trip -- even with a broken ankle. Tylenol/Advil and ice in the evenings also played a key role in getting me through that adventure.
I've been mountain biking for 20 years, moved out to AZ and about to buy my first dual sport bike. Your channel has been unbelievably helpful and entertaining! You have an amazing attitude and perspective. Thank you so much for your channel!
Spot on! You describe how I started. I rode street in California and saw a ton of dirt roads in the mountains. I was curious where they all went. I was already into camping and 4-wheeling. A motorcycle took me farther and faster than my truck could. I read a lot of ADVrider forums which is very supportive. And start w a light bike.
I am rapidly approaching 50 and well aware that I don’t heal as fast as I did in my 20s and 30s but I still enjoy seeing parts of the country that I’ve never had a chance to explore before. All that to say I just bought my first duel sport bike. I got a little KLR-650. I’m looking forward to doing some light off-road riding & this video was definitely helpful.
I must thank the algorithm for bringing me here, because I'd not heard of this channel before, but I got so much out of that. Thanks! I am not interested in pure ADV riding, but I do want to develop the basic skills. So I am keen to hear how others would go about my situation: I have decades of road-riding experience, but recently switched from cruisers to a V-Strom. It's not a dirt-focused bike, which is why I bought it. It's capable on all kinds of surfaces, but I know I will spend 99% of my time on pavement, and I'm OK with that. I know who I am and what I enjoy. I am a landscape photographer, so my goal in riding is to ride TO interesting places, not THROUGH them. I enjoy being able to ride to a national park or other wilderness area, then park the bike and hike. Obviously, a lot of hiking trails are accessed via unsealed roads, so I want to be able to build skills on the occasional dirt road or fire trail, but have no interest in hard core thrashing through the mud and sand. All I really want is to zip around on some unsealed roads or fire trails for practice, but I don't want to go it alone until I get my skills and confidence up. Problem is, I can't find people with my same goals. Looks like I may have to book a course where I can hire a bike and get some instruction. It's an expensive way to do it, but it might be the best investment.
All great coaching! I was a pro MX’er in the early 70’s and today at almost 70 years old, still ride an XC150 and a XR650L for thrills, or just Fun, Adventure, and yes the views. The coaching you are providing is exactly the same I provide for newbie friends I coach. This is all about fun, fulfillment, and new experiences!
I’m new to all this and I really appreciate your vulnerability and encouragement! Not letting others project their insecurities on you is huge. Thanks for all the content!
Noob ADV rider here after many years on the street, currently on a new-to-me AT, but never having owned or ridden a smaller dirtbike or dual sport (and, based on current used bike prices, will probably stay that way for a while). I've gradually started immersing myself in learning videos over the past year from folks like you, Ian, and Bret, though I have not yet taken an offroad course. These types of videos are great to get folks like me motivated to venture offroad and learn through experience. Thanks for doing what you do!
Man, this video is spot on!!!! I am a regular engineer with full time job and try to shuffle training for ADV riding, rock climbing and freediving, and as a competitive spirit that I am, I always tried to be the best at all. I would like to share a phrase that was an eye opener for me: "You don't have to be good at what you like, you just have to enjoy it" The day I stopped trying to be as good as the kid half my age struggling to get a red bull sponsor and that trains only that sport 4 or 5 times a day, 7 days a week. I started enjoying my sports a lot more,
This was a really AWESOME post. Everything you said is spot on, especially the idea of the "hardcore gatekeepers". I have a lot of respect for folks with really strong technical riding skills, but I have even more respect for them if they are humble, share their knowledge and help out lesser skilled riders. It makes the sport better and helps it grow. Bravo.
Yesterday I attended one of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Dirt Bike Schools and learned how to ride a 2020'ish Honda CRF230F. The expert trainer let us ride sitting down for 10 minutes and after that it was stand up all the time. Felt weird but I learned how much more control there was gripping the tank with my knees. The bike's tires felt mushy and like they were flat but I had to get used to it because the bike would go up and down gravely single track with no problem. We were always supposed to use 2nd gear no matter how slow we went 'til we stopped. After a 1/2 day, we were now riding in the forest doing 180-degree U-turns through the trees. It was tough pushing the bike down to make the sharp turns. Now I feel so good knowing I can do this. It opens up so many opportunities for fun! Can't wait.
Love your commentary and philosophical views on riding and friendships. I ride a 2021 HONDA CRF300L and a couple Harleys. 65 years old and had to get back into dual sport riding. Great advice about beginners. I always tell them the same thing:: buy a used 250 to spend your first year on weather street or off road . Too many newbies wanna go out and get a 600-1200cc bike for their first ride and they almost always crash. Ride safe brother!
30+ years street here. My first year riding off road I knew that I knew how to control the clutch perfectly, balance, power ... right ... RIGHT!? Made it through my first year offroad with no major mishaps, and then the second year I had a spectacular "get off". Crushed my confidence and I was terrified of everything. I've been on dirt roads, standing up, everything is groovy and then there's a long patch of loose gravel on a turn, and it completely felt like the front was going to wash out, and it terrified me. I didn't touch the bike much the year after that, and even last year. I went on a group ride with people who were a lot more experienced than I was - and I felt like a giant wuss the whole day. All this to say, I am very glad that I came across this video. Nice to know that other people experience these emotions as well. I ride with close friends mostly, as almost every "stranger" I've met have no end to the banter about how great they are, and how much they have accomplished on their endless rides.
My one thing was my lack of awareness of how much more effort/skill it requires and how much it can slow you down to have the largest ADV bike available. I hadn’t had less than 1000cc’s in a very long time. The videos online, as you pointed out, show you how capable the large bikes are. But these are often ridden by real hardcore masters. I started off-road riding with a a nice used oil-cooled BMW R1200GSA (the larger version). I didn’t mind getting it scratched and I did fine, made it through all kinds of terrain, and the BMW works very, very well. But I do also have a 350 dual sport now because the big bikes do have a limit on the hard stuff and I’d like to jump into Hatfield McCoy trails more. Ride safe! Thanks for the quality videos!!
I grew up riding dirt bikes in baja conditions from age 8. I'm 56 now. Best advice I can give is start small. Buy a used light, small trail bike and learn the basics. Sand, rocks, hill climbs, etc. You need to know what the bike does when the front tire deflects off a big rock, or how it dives and wallows in silt, when to get your butt off the seat and shift your weight, momentum, how to pick a line, how to steer with the rear wheel and a thousand other things you need to encounter to know how to anticipate and react. Be safe, atgatt and have fun.
Regular guy here (63, overweight, enjoying my ADV bike). Thanks a ton. Can only applaud you for all these simple but oh so important truths! Especially around the 8 min mark. My 2 cents worth: at some point, take a one or two days training course at some point, even if you do not intend to go really technical. It will grow your confidence immensely and will help you a lot to relax, even once the sand gets a little deeper. You also learn that dropping the bike is just normal. Thanks from Germany & save riding.
Not worrying about falling off the bike or dropping it was the big one for me! I was so worried about crashing when I first went off road on my friend's bike. Once I finally tipped over by taking a banked turned too slow, I realized it wasn't that bad. I did fall again later and got back up faster and more importantly, realized what I did that caused me to fall. After that, I was so much more relaxed because that worry of falling was no longer bothering me after realizing it's going to happen to everyone and it's not that bad. Like you said, you're not typically going 50mph on a trail or course.
Valid concerns! I've been on the tarmac for 24 years riding Harleys to ZX10s, and have been riding mountain bikes competitively since the early 90s. Both those worlds have now come together since delving into adventure riding. My off-road skills accrued on the mountain bike have been helpful, although, riding a 450 lbs. KLR650 is not the same as dicing single track trails on my Trek Supercaliber. The keys are to stay loose on the bike, stand 95% of the time, scan well ahead, keep your body position neutral in the center of the bike while directing the bike underneath you using downward heel pressure, the throttle is your friend when needing to get through soft sections, wear excellent protective gear all the time and practice, practice, practice. All my years spent riding tarmac only doesn't compare to the amazing on/off-road camping adventures my son and I have experienced in the Los Padres Forest of So Cal.
20 years on the street, entering my second year with dirt riding. The squirreliness of the bike was the biggest surprise. And the sitting vs standing. I watched others shoot past me standing up and just started experimenting and figured out how it worked. Standing adds shock damping to the squirreliness and doesn't feed as well into your steering control. But I've also learned the trick to sitting, it's all in the hips! Loose hips dampens any unintentional input into the steering. Honestly, the bike really wants to keep going where you point the front wheel. Since I'm so new, I am still struggling with remembering all this every time there is a gap in my dirt riding. My first offroad ride I did in my full racing leathers. Thankfully it was cold and wet, but I promptly tailored a more breathable and still road worthy textile suit. Also, we should go riding together, I'm in the land of beavers too!
Finally! Someone said the things we all thought when we started riding!!! Wish I’d known it 20 yrs ago when I started. I was a nervous wreck! Thanks Mr. Dork Sir!!!
I have ridden off road for over 40 years. Kind of the reverse but one thing I would always suggest is that you learn to ride off road before you ride on the street. It will help you control emergency situations on the street much better. Back to the off road. I have had hard core dirt bikes and pretty good off-road skills. Now, I guess I have gone full circle and ride a dual sport bike. Just love being outside and exploring the desert and woods on my XR650L. Good video and good suggestions.
All true! I got a little over-excited about buying gear when I first started. It was fun but also overwhelming. Then I saw a video from Everide and he was talking about why matching gear, fancy stuff, etc just isn't necessary, and its about the ride. It helped me get more focused on the actual riding and not the "noise". Thanks to you (and all the other youtubers) who put yourselves out there and let us see all the facets of riding.
Look good, feel good, ride good. Also makes you appreciate you bike more and focus more on improving your skills so you don’t trash your sexy bike and gear or you can always have a trash looking bike trash looking gear and still have fun riding looking like trash 😂
Great advice. I’ve been Adv bike riding since 2016. In 2019 I rode from Cairo to Cape Town over 3 months. Of our group of 15 riders I was last in pretty much every day. I kept in mind that the goal was to get myself and the bike to the end each day with both of us in one piece and as you say, enjoying the moment along the way. No one in the group thought any less of me because I was a slower rider.
This is a very good video, I'm an instructor and I've been riding since the age of three and genuinely agree with all of your points. Road riding is nothing like greenlaning (UK) it took me a few days out in the lanes to get comfortable with the sensation of the bike moving about under me again and to spend most of my time stood on the pegs. It's made me a much better road rider especially on my 690 smc r because now I don't worry if the back end steps out or the front wheel lifts, the time on the lanes on my wr400 has taught me how to mange those kind of things without getting even remotely nervous. I often go out in relatively big groups and I find that a good thing because there will usually be someone of a similar skill level you can hang with for the day. In our usual group I'm in the middle to sometimes being one of the "quicker" guys but some of our lads are genuinely rapid and I can't get remotely near them, others are so slow I cannot be behind them without falling off. Regardless its great fun and I wish I got into it more years ago
Great advice and love your humble attitude. Ride your own ride for your reasons and respect the terrain, your bike and those around you. Most importantly, have fun!
I’ve been riding since I was 10. Mini bike in the yard, motocross as a teen, street and a young adult. Then put it away to raise a family (don’t ask why… I often ask myself that!) then the bug caught me again in my late 40’s and it was Harley everything until I met other people and began tent camping. So it was a KLR and now a T7. The point of all this is I find it very interesting to watch videos and continue learning as I’m always open to what someone can teach or observe about riding. And hearing some of your observations brought me back to those early learning years and what I take for granted when I’m on the trail now. Skills others are fleshing out much later in life. Good refresher and advice. Keep it up!
Thank you for this video! I started watching your videos when my interest piqued in ADV bikes. I'm now about to upgrade my CB500X to a new Africa Twin and I feel like you've been on this adventure with me. It's refreshing to hear that you don't need the greatest and most expensive gear to get started, do what you can with what you have and upgrade as you go. I appreciate all your content, thank you for helping me along the way!
Having the right bike is pretty important also. Like you say " the right bike for you is the one you're riding" .....BUT ..... I kinda got sucked in to the whole big GS thing and bought an F800GS as my first on/off road bike. I can tell you it was and is a steep learning curve when riding such a top heavy large bike off road as a newbie. Don't get me wrong I LOVE MY GS!! I just wished that I had started on a smaller , easier to pick up bike.
This is GOLD for brand new off road riders! I learned all of these lessons slowly (on a 250L also) when I started riding at age 38. I wish I had just known all of this in the first place, but it was fun to learn and I'm glad I stuck with it. I've had a Beta 430 now for 4 years and am reasonably quick but everything you've said here is absolutely the foundation. Great vid!
Everything said in the vid was spot on. I started on CRF 300l @ 41yrs old 29" inseam (I don't ground on anything good). I dropped that bike over x50 in first few months (dealership threw in bar end guards lol). Now looking for 500exe for dual sport if I finally get over the initial costs ($16000 23 so not that bad but the 24 will be closer to $19000 AUD without anything added)
Street riding for 15 years, you’re one of a few RUclipsrs making me want a used KLR to just go ride dirt on, adv or dual sport will be next bike in the stable
Good points all. I have to say I’ve never felt that there were gate keepers scoffing, everyone I’ve met has been very supportive. As an older rider I do find it important to do my best to stay physically fit as it sure makes it easier to withstand/recover from the certain tumbles that eventually happen.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I really needed to hear this. I've been riding since I was 17. Now at 56, I'm a newbie to ADV and feel it! I'm enjoying the small fear/apprehension cuz it's exciting but I admit I was starting to second guess myself a bit with all the ADV videos I've seen. You really helped me confirm I'm good to go. Cheers!
I just bought my first bike and decided to go with a naked, after considering some ADVs. The street bike just suited my needs better as a brand new rider. So, your content may not be for me right now. But dude, you tell your story very well and provide great content (and have me regretting my decision just a little!). Will keep watching...
Very Excellent!!!!! This is by far the best beginner advice I’ve seen ! As a 66 year old (we did not have dirt to ride in back then) who started at 14 years old this is my two cents: Start on a smaller dual sport Take street safety courses ( check out Moto Jitsu) The street is the dangerous part! Watch and practice beginner trials videos, on your dual sport. This helps in the technical stuff. Don’t take it serious, relax, you will suck. Everyone does when they start! DORK ON SISTERS AND BROTHERS!
Thanks for the practical perspective! I do watch “the experts”. You’ve reminded us that what we are doing is equally valid. My thoughts on “what I wish I had known… When you are about to buy that dream bike, think about one size smaller. My first was a DR350. I would have been happier with a 250. I recently jumped up to a Multistrada 1200s. Might have been happier with something in the 700cc range. But as you said… the best bike is the one you have. And I’m enjoying every minute, even on 17” 90/10 tires.
I started riding dirt as a kid in the 70s but left the dirt in the 2000s - I felt too "old". Now that I'm thinking about riding fire roads with my Ole Timer buddies, I'm so glad I watched this video. A great reminder of stuff I used to know, and some great New stuff. Thanks a lot! Just Subscribed.
I would add 2 things you should do before going off well maintained roads: 1. Set up your controls so that they are comfortable to operate from a standing position while wearing off-road appropriate boots. 2. Add enough protection to your bike so that nothing breaks when you dump it at 5 mph. Bonus tip: leave your nice expensive street helmet at home so it stays nice.
I applaud your approach to attitude and encouragement to relieve beginning rider's anxieties! I agree with the gear assessment and was ecstatic to see a case made for good boots... but was rather saddened at the actual recommendations. As you said, there is an appreciable difference in injury prevention between wholly inappropriate work/hiking boots and proper moto boots, but there is yet still a significant difference between entry level offroad and higher end offroad boots that I argue becomes even more important in the world of heavy ADV/dualsport bikes, especially when coupled with a less experienced rider. I say this only to pass on my own experience of the prior naiveties I have overcome and hopefully convince a few people to take a hard look at how their boots are actually constructed and the differences between a $100 and $500 boot. Physically compare a boot like the Corozal with its single plastic medial blade stiffener on one side of the ankle to a high end MX boot (Such as Gaerne SG-12 or Sidi Crossfire 2) with two hinged ankle braces or even a mid to high end ADV boot (Such as Alpinestars Toucan or the Sidi Adventure) with a single ankle brace and the differences in injury prevention it affords becomes quite apparent if try to bend them or twist them at the ankle, especially after they are well worn in and a boot without hinges has become extremely soft. One only has to imagine their foot in there when a motorcycle that weighs twice as much or more as the rider exerts some unexpected force against it. A TPU panel or single medial blade cannot adequately prevent hyper extension or torsional injuries, which I think is especially important when riding a larger/heavier bike, not to mention a lack of impact protection as well. The difference in price is paltry compared to the cost of a single foot injury, ending a big trip early, time lost riding or working, or even the longevity of the boot (higher end boots are more durable and have replaceable parts.) Truly good boots are extremely cheap insurance relative to the risk. The only significant injury I have suffered in ~20 years of offroad riding was during a very minor off when I dropped my 320 lbs DRZ (Heavy for a dirtbike, very light for an ADV bike) on my leg at a standstill in a pair of Corozals, a hyper extension injury that my SG-12s would have easily prevented. I have been on-site of or in the company of enough friends with moto related leg injuries, some of which could have been prevented with better boots, that I should have known better that day. There's my rant, personally, I just say NO to soggy waffle boots!
Love it, honesty…….old guy out of shape. I’m switching from years of mountaineering and backcountry skiing to riding and exploring the gravel roads. BDR rides look awesome, my same pack loads not on my back anymore but on the panniers.
I agree with all of these points. I'm a guy who bought his first motorcycle (a used KLR 650) 4 years ago when I turned 50, and this is excellent advice that would have helped me as a new rider. I'm still a novice at best, but working on improving my skills every time I gear up and ride, and your videos have been a great source of inspiration and help. Thank you, and keep 'em coming!
Great stuff! I've been a solo long distance touring bike rider for a long time but recently got the bug to buy a used 250L and try to re-capture some of the experiences that got me started as a pre-teen in the 1970s on a Honda CT70. You've confirmed some things I've been thinking about (boots, gear) as well as made me consider things I hadn't previously. Appreciate what you said about the ADV community ... hope to meet some of you on the trails!
Great advice and well put together, Thank you. 15 year sportsbike rider just bought my first Adventure bike, Transalp 1987 and am soaking up all videos and advice. Just riding with knobby tyres on the road is a whole different experience. I can't wait to start dropping my bike off road. New subscriber :-)
I’m up in Ontario Canada your videos help me survive the winters here lol. But I purchased my first dual sport and I’m taking a dirt bike course in the spring ! First day on they’re bike next day on mine. Looking forward to it. Keep the content going love it.
I too just bought a 300l after doing the intro to off road at Horseshoe Valley last fall. After 15 years on a Harley I am looking forward to dusting the trails in Ontario!
Loved this vid. When I was about 10, I had a little Yamaha 80 motocross bike hand me down. LOVED it. Fast forward 40+ years and I'm wanting to get back to riding. It's been a long time, but I'm thinking about buying a dual sport. Your dual sport/adventure bike vids make it easier to decide. Thanks!
All excellent advice - especially #4 . Thanks for the smart, cool , funny banter on who we are , and why we should just enjoy and keep learning! Riding a motorcycle has truly changed my quality of life, and your level headed encouragement is terrific reassurance for any of us who may occasionally feel a little "less than".
Absolutely fantastic. We so needed to hear this reassuring advice thank you. I grew up in NYC and was a street rider all my life. At 58 I'm just starting to get into ADV riding. I needed to hear this !
Great Job Ben! I haven’t touched dirt since last summer’s training adventure in Oregon from fear of dropping my bike and injuring myself again but your video is right on point, it’s going to happen, start slowly and just do what your comfortable at. Forrest roads here I come!!
Highly....really, highly suggest a good used bike when you start of......off roading. A pre scratched bike will do wonders for your willingness to "try" things.
360'ed my left ankle in offroad training at BMW. Spent a week in Spartanburg, SC hospital rebuilding it. Another year in recovery. I had hightop riding/hiking boots. Wear proper adventure boots offroad. They suck to walk around in. They are weird to learn to shift in because you can't feel much. But they will save your legs.
This is Great insight Dork, love it! One thing I wish I knew before I (traded in my 1300 for 250 dual sport)started riding dirt/trails was the importance of bike weight. Lighter is better especially if you're going to add weight (camping gear) to bike with luggage. I ride and I camp, but I never blended the two together. 1) I have a ton camping gear 2) I sleep comfortable on an air mattress. I plan to do the TAT but will stay in hotels (which can get $$) unless anyone has any suggestions how I can pack super light I'm open to ideas. Thanks in advanced! :)
Loved this man! I'm taking my GSA off road for the first time this year. Have been buying loads of kit and extras to protect the bike and myself. I'm going to take the lesson here and chill out, do it at my own pace and enjoy. Thank you
Good luck man! I bought my Triumph Tiger Explorer with the intention of using it as my primary off road dual sport. I figured with a good set of 50-50 tires, I’d be rocking the trails with 1200cc’s of stump jumping power! However, by the 3rd ride and probably 15th drop, I realized picking my 600 pound “adventure bike” up off the trail was not that much fun. Actually, sticking red hot skewers down my ear canal would’ve been more fun! So I retired my Tiger to 100% road touring and bought a CRF250L for woods riding. It was then I learned it was much easier to ride off road without constantly dumping the bike and when I did, it was much easier to pick up a 300# bike. I wish you the best of luck on the GSA, you’re a braver man than I.
I’ve watched most of your videos, the best line, I’m old, overweight and outa shape. You are honest and engaging. Telling it like it is. How about running for office. We can take the honesty easier than the BS. Keep riding and reporting. BTW, I’m 67 and outa shape, but happy. Soon as the 9’ of snow at my house melts, crf1100 and gone!
Thanks Ben. Your list of 7 is spot on. As a new old rider I related to this video. I hadn’t been on a bike in years. I’d been seeing ADV groups frequently around here as I live in the Washington foothills. Bought myself a Tenere last year and looking forward to a full season with my new friends and learning new skills and enjoying the rides. Thanks Dork for all you do for the ADV community.
Great info. I grew up on a dirt bike and racing Offroad trucks. Now I’m older I got a 4x4 Toyota and I love the slower pace and enjoy the view of Gods country. I picked up a Honda 450rL and I haven’t gotten a chance to take it in the dirt yet. But I look forward to exploring. You’re so right about the online influence. I feel bad for the younger generations that will never be content with going slow.
Great video. I have to agree with all 7. I have been riding for 30 years, but just recently started exploring the ADV world. The dirt is so different, and yet similar. Knowing how shifting your weight around affects the motorcycle is important in both situations. The loose stuff (especially sand) is still my nemesis, lol. I am planning a trip to Alaska and then down to San Diego and back to the east coast this year. I just wanted to put it out there that your content, along with others like As the Magpie Flies and For the Love of Knobs, has inspired me to plan this trip and actually make it happen. So, I wanted to thank you for the inspiration and good content, and for being my internet riding buddy. Thank you.
Thank you so much for this video. I am buying a new 2024 Gas Gas ES500 for the first time in 25 years, am nervous about the first ride and appreciate you.
I've watched your content since you had about 25k subs, and its great to see you really enjoying it and showing the world what this type of riding offers. I traded my Vstrom for a DRZ and you were definitely a reason for that, and I love it! Cheers man and thanks for the great videos
I am 40 year plus street rider. I have stunted bikes a bit in my youth and I am very confident on the street. I just got into ADV and want to say thank you for helping me calm the F down and just let it come in its own time. Much love and ride on
Great video and a your personality and content has gotten me into wanting a dual sport. You’re very inspiring. I completed my msf a few months and saving up to buy my first bike this spring. Thanks for all you do!
Thanks for this great video. It may have been said elsewhere but one thing I wish I knew before getting into ADV riding was I don't need a BMW 1200 GSA or similar to enjoy off road riding. Initially I started ADV riding on a Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer which is waaaaayyy to large for a beginner ADV rider. I now have a Honda CB500X equipped with Rally Raid level 2 kit and this is ideal for moto camping in the back country. Thanks again.
Hi Dork. Been following you regularly since I discovered your channel back when you were riding the DRZ. You remind me of when I was a young 50 yo beginning ADV rider back in 2003 in Southern California. This video is the BEST one I have seen to date for advice to new riders about how to get started riding ADV. I suffered through all of your bullet points. We just relocated to the PNW this spring and looking forward to getting my DRZs and KLR out of storage and running again but we have to finish our move and necessary improvements our new cottage in Ridgefield. This "geezer on a DRZ-er" is looking forward to meeting you on the road somewhere, some time this spring.... I'll bring the Buffalo Trace. Again Great job on this video.
Thanks for the inviting message. I’ve always been super interested in motorcycles but never bought one until I was an adult because everyone around me said they were too dangerous. My first bike was a couple years ago, a Yamaha virago 250. Im now wanting to dabble in off road riding because I love camping and 4x4 roads and exploring FS roads. I got a phenomenal deal on a running KLR 250 for $800 but I’ve been afraid to get out much because of the intimidation factor of being a new rider and not knowing anyone in the community. I recently moved to western Washington and really want to get out and explore some of these legendary trails and logging roads. Your video makes me feel welcomed and invited. Now I just need to find someone to go with 😅
When I was in college in the early to mid '90's, I rode all over the fire roads & trails in Southwest VA. There were great mountain roads to cross and end up anywhere and everywhere. At the end of the day, I was worn out and could hit the highway home from just about anywhere. The bike I rode was a 1973 CL350 scrambler twin & it never failed to get me anywhere I wanted to go & home again. No GPS, I just used the USGS Forest Service topographic maps.
As a newb to this, I always find your videos helpful in just focusing on getting out there and riding. It’s easy to watch all the cool ADV videos (especially in winter) but reminding myself why I got into it which was for exploration not wheelies and death-defying single track. Keep on creating please! And hope to see you at the Touratech Rally this year!
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Just came across your channel. Nice video. I haven't checked out your list of videos so you may have covered this. One thing that I haven't seen covered (although I'm sure it's out there) for new riders is the balance between the best bike & gear vs what are you willing to leave behind. The reality is most riders will never consider & will never be in a situation where they'll have to walk-out & leave behind everything due to a catastrophic break down or watch as your bike & kit float away after falling into a river ravine. But the reality is, it happens pretty regularly around the world. Unfortunately, some riders have perished because they weren't willing to walk-out and leave their 40k of bike & kit or dove into moving water to try & save a fully loaded bike while still wearing full gear. Definitely a darker ADV topic but something that has to be considered beforehand & before emotions take over. Anyway, just my two cents.
Sorry Dork, might have posted this on one of your other great videos'.
The weight of these monsters 1,200cc "dirt" bikes is your worst enemy off road!
And when you fall over, as you will, (don't kid yourself), you have to wait for your buddies to get these pigs unstuck and picked up.
Do yourself a favour and pick a bike that does not weight three tons!
These 1,200cc '"Adventure" bikes in reality can be a "Nightmare" bikes for ordinary riders! Not fun at all! They will reduce grown men to tears.
Don't be fooled watching these factory Paris to Dakkar riders on TV! They are on another planet from you and I.
A Suzuki DR400S will get you anywhere - and be fun!
Early on I got out and enjoyed a long day and found out how cold the ride home could be. Several times i found myself a long way from home after dark and the jacket I had on was not nearly warm enough. Wind chill is a bitch.
Hey great video, i was wondering about boot for adv offroad, ive got Sidi Adventure 2 would they be adequate to protect me? they are not fully stiff like enduro boots.
Moral of the story, never ride a 450lb bike in the dirt,Tenere 700 etc, or youl be laying it down more than a hooker on payday, stick with a 450 motocross or less or a Dualsport at 260 lbs at most..
"Do not let people project their insecurities onto you."
Life advice right there.
I subscribed to that guy above simply because he does not discourage others, or make others feel stupid as other RUclipsr bikers do ...
"Do not let people project their insecurities onto you." is 100% good advice indeed
Exactly. A few examples already popped in my head when he said that
The guy was a teacher before this - says a lot about what he's learned along the way. Great channel.
You nailed it.
I’m 74 and just got a TransAlp. After years of riding heavy cruisers, I am having the time of my life.
@Bill3558 Legend...I'm 50 now and reckon I have 30 years of riding left in me. People like you inspire me. My next bike is a Transalp, and I'll be touring the Alps and Pyrennes in this incredible bike. Safe riding my friend.
We need more people like you telling new adv riders not to worry about the gatekeeping and just get out there and do it - we all suck at something in our own special way.
I am so awesome, I suck at sucking.
Good comment!
I suck at sucking.
One of the signs of maturity is that you do what you want, where you want, not giving a shit what other people think about it :)
Then again, thats also true of childhood. 😄
I wish I knew I’d be addicted to all these YT Off-Road content providers!
😂😂😂 yes. I find myself watching them to much!
Same here.
Looking to purchase a pair of '23 T7s.
Been away from motorcycles for 3 decades. Getting back into it.
It's like lays you can't watch but one
Me too... They are great to get me through New England winters, but when the weather breaks it can be hard sometimes to put down the phone, get on my bike, and take off. I wish there were more trails closer to where I live is another reason why I'm drawn to YT'rs... Takes me places I might not otherwise get to.
Good video mate, if I could tell a beginner getting into any form of gravel to enduro riding it would certainly be 1. BOOTS 2.standup 3. look ahead 4. ride at the speed you're comfortable with no matter much slower it is to others around you. If you can spend 3k on your dual sport you can spend 300-500 on boots and you should - spend less on the bike and buy a good set of boots - if you're work depends on being able to walk - seriously - boots :) All excellent points you raised too man. One thing I would add to new riders is to buy the absolute smallest/lightest weight bike you're willing to own if you do decide you want to do more than gravel - the 'willing' comment is key as many will want a 900 twin and that's cool whatever makes you happy right :) but IN ALL CASES if you can live with a lighter bike's road manners (dr650/400/wr250r/crf300l) just understand the risk of injury and reward of riding enjoyment off road is inversly proptional to bike weight until you are a far far far more skilled rider than 99% of the adv community is - it's humbling to us all but important for new riders watching stuff like Pol & Chris Birch to understand - no one looks down on the drz400 owner doing a 10000km trip across the country - they tip their cap to the dude that understands his abilities and embraces the bikes' crappy road manners for the wicked fun, low stress, affordable, lower risk, capable adventures they can have anywhere anytime without the fear of braking their tibia under a 230kg ADV bike falling over at 5kph. Just some perspective for new riders from an experienced one :) *if you want a 130hp 230kg bike that is cool too - but the facts are important to know before you drop your own cash and hurt yourself. Ride safe - most fun you can have on this earth :)
Good advice on lighter bikes. One thing every dirt rider needs to learn is how to react when you lose it, knowing how & when to fall off the bike is an art. Newer riders might try to save it when they go past the control point, & that's just a recipe for injury, getting pinned or hit by your bike hurts a lot more than the fall.
Good point on the small light bikes I much prefer them in the bush they're lighter easier to handle and more tossable plus they're funner to jump.
Any specific type of boots you'd recommend?
@@sams6889 Forget 'ADV' and get motocross boots.
Ever gone hang gliding?
Start with an older machine. Spend a day at a motocross track with a track bike to get a feel for dirt. Learn to put weight on the front for turns and back for traction. Don't ride alone. Better to trailer to the trail and have tools close by.
GREAT video, especially for folks contemplating Adventure riding. My first bike was a KLR650 when I turned 70 years old. I'm now 80 and on my second KLR. What you say are some of the most relevant thoughts I've had over the past 10 years. Some I way over estimated their importance (as you suggest) and a few I underestimated. The importance of riding loose off-road and the need and value of good riding boots are especially relevant suggestions in my case. But, all your thoughts are spot on for Adv riding.
nice to hear. I'm just getting started with my Yamaha XT 250 at 64 Yo. Thanks for the comment.
I am 59 and my son is 11 and thinking about getting started in motorcycle riding nice to hear your opinion/experience.
I will add onto the "run what you brung" thing. I ride a '79 KZ750B. It's a UJM motorcycle, and the only bike I have ever owned. I have torn these carbs apart on the side of the road more times than I can count. But, I know how to fix these carbs with my eyes closed. My bike is very much self-servicable aside from tires, which even tire machines struggle with for my wheels. As long as you are willing to learn some things about how to care for your machine, you will realize they are a lot more capable than you'd expect. I run a Shinko touring tire on that bike, and it has gotten me up numerous fire roads, both gravel and dirt. It has done perfectly fine in those conditions for what it is. The only thing I have struggled with on these tires is mud, which is to be expected. But, it's a year round, all weather commuting vehicle for me. Just try your best, and you can have an adventure with anything
I'm 68 and started riding bikes on the dirt when I was 15. I've raced motocross and prefer to be riding through the bush than on a highway. I think one of the most important observations you made was for new rider just to get out there and travel at their own pace. You are not Pol Teres or the equivalent and may never be, so don't think you are or you will definitely find out what dirt tastes like. Just enjoy the day and ride safely so that you have many others to come.
I bought a used 2012 vstrom that was absolutely immaculate with only 9000 km, still had the original rear tire on it, the bike had never been off road...that changed the first day.
The bike now looks its age 20000km and more drops than I count later.
There are a huge number of RUclips channels that I have no respect for. The worst are ‘reviews’ after spending 10 minutes on a bike. And a bike, or any other item, that a manufacturer has given them or loaned them. RUclips is full of that crap. It’s not just motorcycles, it’s everything that I’m into. Fishing, camping, 4x4ing, kayaking. And once in a while you stumble across a channel like yours. Somebody who actually owns and USES what he reviews. A person you can trust to give you good advice. I’m not a novice motorcyclist, I’ve ridden for 50 years. Ever since I could climb aboard a minibike. You are a fantastic resource for new riders. Much respect for what you are giving back to the community.
thank you for your content....Just bought a 2013 CRF250L to start riding at 47 years old.
That's awesome!
hell yea brotha. Ive been riding a cruiser for 17 years, the swap to dual sport is a learning curve. I just turned 45, so keep it goin! be safe and keep the rubber side down!
Another great video, In my younger days I rode a 2000 XR 600 Honda and had a blast. Now I'm 66 (23 years later) and just bought a 2023 KLR and am riding on and Offroad in Arizona desert . I feel like my brain, balance and physical ability is improving every time I go out, It's amazing. I watch so many of your videos to give me the knowledge I need today to to get back into this great sport. Keep up the great work it is sooooo much appreciated.. Carl...
Right on, I'm in AZ and on a gen 1 KLR, it's an awesome AZ bike, i've been to most parts of the state with it.
Dork, , thanks for all of your encouragement to us newbie riders, you have inspired me to get my ass onto a motorcycle and into the great outdoors of our beautiful state of Oregon. I plan to video my journey, and hopefully we will cross paths on the trail someday. Stay safe, and continue your path of educational direction for us new rider's.
Man, Oregon is a beautiful state. Lived out there in a camper last summer while the wife was working a hospital contract. I would love to get back out there on a motorcycle, it's a long way from CT, though! You'll love it!
Very cool!
We are very lucky here in Oregon. Keep that a secret. ;)
Dork have you ever made it to the east coast to ride?! I’m in PA and want to do the MABDR but have no one to ride with.. Come out and be my real-life riding buddy! Lol😊
@@DorkintheRoad And WA
Good video, and all the points you made are legit. I started riding 35 years ago, but not off pavement. I bought a DR650 near 5 years ago for commuting to work because it's all gravel road and my Softail is not good on gravel, I now have about 12,000 miles of gravel/dirt road behind me now. I have to say that probably the hardest thing to learn and get accustomed to riding gravel, similar would apply to dirt is that the bike is going to move! Don't fight it, let it move, it'll feel squirrelly at first but that's how it is. At 40 mph a bike does not want to fall over even if it may "feel" like it, it just wants to stay upright and go straight. Due to wanting just one bike that can do everything well I ordered a 2023 Africa Twin Adventure Sports in the fall and it will be here for the start of this years riding season. I'm in my mid fifties and this summer I am taking my first real holiday going motorcycle camping.
This is great insight and generally agree. It reminds me of the David Foster Wallace quote - "You'll stop caring what people think about you when you realize how seldom they do". ADV riding is so easy to get wrapped up in your image and how you think things should happen that it is sooo easy to miss out on the experience as you've said.
Well said!
Great quote, life changing.
Yesterday I completed a Level 1 BMW off road course in the Brecon Beacons, Wales. I learnt so much it’s going to take months of practice. The skills involved riding an R1250GS are amazing. My one regret is simple, I did not realise how much work my slow control skills needed practise. I shall be doing hundreds of u turns and slaloms every week till my next course. Thanks for the video
Can I ask where did you do that course? I'm in the area and am looking for something similar.
I watched this video as I lay here recovering from surgery on a broken ankle that I got as a souvenir from my lack of riding skill / comfort in deep sand while in Baja. Even though I had some good riding boots, stuff happens and got my foot twisted under the bike. That happened three days into a 15 day trip. A couple of your points in particular were spot-on: riding with others who make up a good support group and the proper gear are what allowed me to finish the trip -- even with a broken ankle. Tylenol/Advil and ice in the evenings also played a key role in getting me through that adventure.
I've been mountain biking for 20 years, moved out to AZ and about to buy my first dual sport bike. Your channel has been unbelievably helpful and entertaining! You have an amazing attitude and perspective. Thank you so much for your channel!
Not the video I wanted, but definitely the one I needed. Tysm !
Dual Sport riding has been what I was looking for my entire life but didnt realize. I am finally living life again!! LOVE IT!
Spot on! You describe how I started. I rode street in California and saw a ton of dirt roads in the mountains. I was curious where they all went. I was already into camping and 4-wheeling. A motorcycle took me farther and faster than my truck could. I read a lot of ADVrider forums which is very supportive. And start w a light bike.
Your inputs are welcome and boost the self confidence very much! Thank you!
I am rapidly approaching 50 and well aware that I don’t heal as fast as I did in my 20s and 30s but I still enjoy seeing parts of the country that I’ve never had a chance to explore before. All that to say I just bought my first duel sport bike. I got a little KLR-650. I’m looking forward to doing some light off-road riding & this video was definitely helpful.
I must thank the algorithm for bringing me here, because I'd not heard of this channel before, but I got so much out of that. Thanks!
I am not interested in pure ADV riding, but I do want to develop the basic skills. So I am keen to hear how others would go about my situation: I have decades of road-riding experience, but recently switched from cruisers to a V-Strom. It's not a dirt-focused bike, which is why I bought it. It's capable on all kinds of surfaces, but I know I will spend 99% of my time on pavement, and I'm OK with that. I know who I am and what I enjoy. I am a landscape photographer, so my goal in riding is to ride TO interesting places, not THROUGH them. I enjoy being able to ride to a national park or other wilderness area, then park the bike and hike.
Obviously, a lot of hiking trails are accessed via unsealed roads, so I want to be able to build skills on the occasional dirt road or fire trail, but have no interest in hard core thrashing through the mud and sand. All I really want is to zip around on some unsealed roads or fire trails for practice, but I don't want to go it alone until I get my skills and confidence up. Problem is, I can't find people with my same goals. Looks like I may have to book a course where I can hire a bike and get some instruction. It's an expensive way to do it, but it might be the best investment.
All great coaching! I was a pro MX’er in the early 70’s and today at almost 70 years old, still ride an XC150 and a XR650L for thrills, or just Fun, Adventure, and yes the views. The coaching you are providing is exactly the same I provide for newbie friends I coach. This is all about fun, fulfillment, and new experiences!
I’m new to all this and I really appreciate your vulnerability and encouragement! Not letting others project their insecurities on you is huge. Thanks for all the content!
Noob ADV rider here after many years on the street, currently on a new-to-me AT, but never having owned or ridden a smaller dirtbike or dual sport (and, based on current used bike prices, will probably stay that way for a while). I've gradually started immersing myself in learning videos over the past year from folks like you, Ian, and Bret, though I have not yet taken an offroad course. These types of videos are great to get folks like me motivated to venture offroad and learn through experience. Thanks for doing what you do!
Man, this video is spot on!!!! I am a regular engineer with full time job and try to shuffle training for ADV riding, rock climbing and freediving, and as a competitive spirit that I am, I always tried to be the best at all. I would like to share a phrase that was an eye opener for me: "You don't have to be good at what you like, you just have to enjoy it"
The day I stopped trying to be as good as the kid half my age struggling to get a red bull sponsor and that trains only that sport 4 or 5 times a day, 7 days a week. I started enjoying my sports a lot more,
This was a really AWESOME post. Everything you said is spot on, especially the idea of the "hardcore gatekeepers". I have a lot of respect for folks with really strong technical riding skills, but I have even more respect for them if they are humble, share their knowledge and help out lesser skilled riders. It makes the sport better and helps it grow.
Bravo.
Yesterday I attended one of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Dirt Bike Schools and learned how to ride a 2020'ish Honda CRF230F. The expert trainer let us ride sitting down for 10 minutes and after that it was stand up all the time. Felt weird but I learned how much more control there was gripping the tank with my knees. The bike's tires felt mushy and like they were flat but I had to get used to it because the bike would go up and down gravely single track with no problem. We were always supposed to use 2nd gear no matter how slow we went 'til we stopped. After a 1/2 day, we were now riding in the forest doing 180-degree U-turns through the trees. It was tough pushing the bike down to make the sharp turns. Now I feel so good knowing I can do this. It opens up so many opportunities for fun! Can't wait.
Love your commentary and philosophical views on riding and friendships. I ride a 2021 HONDA CRF300L and a couple Harleys. 65 years old and had to get back into dual sport riding. Great advice about beginners. I always tell them the same thing:: buy a used 250 to spend your first year on weather street or off road . Too many newbies wanna go out and get a 600-1200cc bike for their first ride and they almost always crash. Ride safe brother!
30+ years street here. My first year riding off road I knew that I knew how to control the clutch perfectly, balance, power ... right ... RIGHT!? Made it through my first year offroad with no major mishaps, and then the second year I had a spectacular "get off". Crushed my confidence and I was terrified of everything. I've been on dirt roads, standing up, everything is groovy and then there's a long patch of loose gravel on a turn, and it completely felt like the front was going to wash out, and it terrified me. I didn't touch the bike much the year after that, and even last year. I went on a group ride with people who were a lot more experienced than I was - and I felt like a giant wuss the whole day. All this to say, I am very glad that I came across this video. Nice to know that other people experience these emotions as well. I ride with close friends mostly, as almost every "stranger" I've met have no end to the banter about how great they are, and how much they have accomplished on their endless rides.
My one thing was my lack of awareness of how much more effort/skill it requires and how much it can slow you down to have the largest ADV bike available. I hadn’t had less than 1000cc’s in a very long time. The videos online, as you pointed out, show you how capable the large bikes are. But these are often ridden by real hardcore masters. I started off-road riding with a a nice used oil-cooled BMW R1200GSA (the larger version). I didn’t mind getting it scratched and I did fine, made it through all kinds of terrain, and the BMW works very, very well. But I do also have a 350 dual sport now because the big bikes do have a limit on the hard stuff and I’d like to jump into Hatfield McCoy trails more. Ride safe! Thanks for the quality videos!!
I grew up riding dirt bikes in baja conditions from age 8. I'm 56 now. Best advice I can give is start small. Buy a used light, small trail bike and learn the basics. Sand, rocks, hill climbs, etc. You need to know what the bike does when the front tire deflects off a big rock, or how it dives and wallows in silt, when to get your butt off the seat and shift your weight, momentum, how to pick a line, how to steer with the rear wheel and a thousand other things you need to encounter to know how to anticipate and react.
Be safe, atgatt and have fun.
Great video, quite engaging
Regular guy here (63, overweight, enjoying my ADV bike).
Thanks a ton. Can only applaud you for all these simple but oh so important truths! Especially around the 8 min mark.
My 2 cents worth: at some point, take a one or two days training course at some point, even if you do not intend to go really technical. It will grow your confidence immensely and will help you a lot to relax, even once the sand gets a little deeper. You also learn that dropping the bike is just normal.
Thanks from Germany & save riding.
Not worrying about falling off the bike or dropping it was the big one for me! I was so worried about crashing when I first went off road on my friend's bike. Once I finally tipped over by taking a banked turned too slow, I realized it wasn't that bad. I did fall again later and got back up faster and more importantly, realized what I did that caused me to fall. After that, I was so much more relaxed because that worry of falling was no longer bothering me after realizing it's going to happen to everyone and it's not that bad. Like you said, you're not typically going 50mph on a trail or course.
Valid concerns! I've been on the tarmac for 24 years riding Harleys to ZX10s, and have been riding mountain bikes competitively since the early 90s. Both those worlds have now come together since delving into adventure riding. My off-road skills accrued on the mountain bike have been helpful, although, riding a 450 lbs. KLR650 is not the same as dicing single track trails on my Trek Supercaliber. The keys are to stay loose on the bike, stand 95% of the time, scan well ahead, keep your body position neutral in the center of the bike while directing the bike underneath you using downward heel pressure, the throttle is your friend when needing to get through soft sections, wear excellent protective gear all the time and practice, practice, practice. All my years spent riding tarmac only doesn't compare to the amazing on/off-road camping adventures my son and I have experienced in the Los Padres Forest of So Cal.
You are so level headed and a teacher/guider person at heart.
Thanks for alleviating so much fears plus teaching safety (boots) etc.
20 years on the street, entering my second year with dirt riding. The squirreliness of the bike was the biggest surprise. And the sitting vs standing. I watched others shoot past me standing up and just started experimenting and figured out how it worked. Standing adds shock damping to the squirreliness and doesn't feed as well into your steering control. But I've also learned the trick to sitting, it's all in the hips! Loose hips dampens any unintentional input into the steering. Honestly, the bike really wants to keep going where you point the front wheel. Since I'm so new, I am still struggling with remembering all this every time there is a gap in my dirt riding.
My first offroad ride I did in my full racing leathers. Thankfully it was cold and wet, but I promptly tailored a more breathable and still road worthy textile suit.
Also, we should go riding together, I'm in the land of beavers too!
Finally! Someone said the things we all thought when we started riding!!! Wish I’d known it 20 yrs ago when I started. I was a nervous wreck! Thanks Mr. Dork Sir!!!
Thanks for watching!
I have ridden off road for over 40 years. Kind of the reverse but one thing I would always suggest is that you learn to ride off road before you ride on the street. It will help you control emergency situations on the street much better. Back to the off road. I have had hard core dirt bikes and pretty good off-road skills. Now, I guess I have gone full circle and ride a dual sport bike. Just love being outside and exploring the desert and woods on my XR650L. Good video and good suggestions.
All true! I got a little over-excited about buying gear when I first started. It was fun but also overwhelming. Then I saw a video from Everide and he was talking about why matching gear, fancy stuff, etc just isn't necessary, and its about the ride. It helped me get more focused on the actual riding and not the "noise". Thanks to you (and all the other youtubers) who put yourselves out there and let us see all the facets of riding.
Look good, feel good, ride good. Also makes you appreciate you bike more and focus more on improving your skills so you don’t trash your sexy bike and gear or you can always have a trash looking bike trash looking gear and still have fun riding looking like trash 😂
Great anti-gatekeeping content there, thank you
Great advice. I’ve been Adv bike riding since 2016. In 2019 I rode from Cairo to Cape Town over 3 months. Of our group of 15 riders I was last in pretty much every day. I kept in mind that the goal was to get myself and the bike to the end each day with both of us in one piece and as you say, enjoying the moment along the way. No one in the group thought any less of me because I was a slower rider.
Most important point is 4, i hate gate keepers, ride what you have and have fun. So much amazing stuff to see out there
This is a very good video, I'm an instructor and I've been riding since the age of three and genuinely agree with all of your points. Road riding is nothing like greenlaning (UK) it took me a few days out in the lanes to get comfortable with the sensation of the bike moving about under me again and to spend most of my time stood on the pegs. It's made me a much better road rider especially on my 690 smc r because now I don't worry if the back end steps out or the front wheel lifts, the time on the lanes on my wr400 has taught me how to mange those kind of things without getting even remotely nervous. I often go out in relatively big groups and I find that a good thing because there will usually be someone of a similar skill level you can hang with for the day. In our usual group I'm in the middle to sometimes being one of the "quicker" guys but some of our lads are genuinely rapid and I can't get remotely near them, others are so slow I cannot be behind them without falling off. Regardless its great fun and I wish I got into it more years ago
Great advice and love your humble attitude. Ride your own ride for your reasons and respect the terrain, your bike and those around you. Most importantly, have fun!
The Dork is back! Great sound advice and you are back in the ring! Keep up the good work :)
I’ve been riding since I was 10. Mini bike in the yard, motocross as a teen, street and a young adult. Then put it away to raise a family (don’t ask why… I often ask myself that!) then the bug caught me again in my late 40’s and it was Harley everything until I met other people and began tent camping. So it was a KLR and now a T7.
The point of all this is I find it very interesting to watch videos and continue learning as I’m always open to what someone can teach or observe about riding. And hearing some of your observations brought me back to those early learning years and what I take for granted when I’m on the trail now. Skills others are fleshing out much later in life. Good refresher and advice. Keep it up!
Thank you for this video! I started watching your videos when my interest piqued in ADV bikes. I'm now about to upgrade my CB500X to a new Africa Twin and I feel like you've been on this adventure with me. It's refreshing to hear that you don't need the greatest and most expensive gear to get started, do what you can with what you have and upgrade as you go. I appreciate all your content, thank you for helping me along the way!
Excellent bike choices! Good luck with your new bike!
Having the right bike is pretty important also.
Like you say " the right bike for you is the one you're riding" .....BUT ..... I kinda got sucked in to the whole big GS thing and bought an F800GS as my first on/off road bike.
I can tell you it was and is a steep learning curve when riding such a top heavy large bike off road as a newbie.
Don't get me wrong I LOVE MY GS!! I just wished that I had started on a smaller , easier to pick up bike.
This is GOLD for brand new off road riders! I learned all of these lessons slowly (on a 250L also) when I started riding at age 38. I wish I had just known all of this in the first place, but it was fun to learn and I'm glad I stuck with it. I've had a Beta 430 now for 4 years and am reasonably quick but everything you've said here is absolutely the foundation. Great vid!
I also started on a 250L, I've noticed a lot of people say the same thing. They're solid bikes if anyone's looking
Everything said in the vid was spot on. I started on CRF 300l @ 41yrs old 29" inseam (I don't ground on anything good). I dropped that bike over x50 in first few months (dealership threw in bar end guards lol). Now looking for 500exe for dual sport if I finally get over the initial costs ($16000 23 so not that bad but the 24 will be closer to $19000 AUD without anything added)
Street riding for 15 years, you’re one of a few RUclipsrs making me want a used KLR to just go ride dirt on, adv or dual sport will be next bike in the stable
My plan is to do Baja from Los Angeles to Cabo.Thanks for sharing your videos.
I'm doing the same this winter, but Cabo to San Diego. Maybe we'll cross on the way.
Good points all. I have to say I’ve never felt that there were gate keepers scoffing, everyone I’ve met has been very supportive. As an older rider I do find it important to do my best to stay physically fit as it sure makes it easier to withstand/recover from the certain tumbles that eventually happen.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I really needed to hear this. I've been riding since I was 17. Now at 56, I'm a newbie to ADV and feel it! I'm enjoying the small fear/apprehension cuz it's exciting but I admit I was starting to second guess myself a bit with all the ADV videos I've seen. You really helped me confirm I'm good to go. Cheers!
I just bought my first bike and decided to go with a naked, after considering some ADVs. The street bike just suited my needs better as a brand new rider. So, your content may not be for me right now. But dude, you tell your story very well and provide great content (and have me regretting my decision just a little!). Will keep watching...
Very Excellent!!!!! This is by far the best beginner advice I’ve seen ! As a 66 year old (we did not have dirt to ride in back then) who started at 14 years old this is my two cents:
Start on a smaller dual sport
Take street safety courses ( check out Moto Jitsu) The street is the dangerous part!
Watch and practice beginner trials videos, on your dual sport. This helps in the technical stuff.
Don’t take it serious, relax, you will suck. Everyone does when they start!
DORK ON SISTERS AND BROTHERS!
Thanks for watching!@
Thanks for the practical perspective! I do watch “the experts”. You’ve reminded us that what we are doing is equally valid.
My thoughts on “what I wish I had known… When you are about to buy that dream bike, think about one size smaller. My first was a DR350. I would have been happier with a 250. I recently jumped up to a Multistrada 1200s. Might have been happier with something in the 700cc range. But as you said… the best bike is the one you have. And I’m enjoying every minute, even on 17” 90/10 tires.
I started riding dirt as a kid in the 70s but left the dirt in the 2000s - I felt too "old". Now that I'm thinking about riding fire roads with my Ole Timer buddies, I'm so glad I watched this video. A great reminder of stuff I used to know, and some great New stuff. Thanks a lot! Just Subscribed.
I would add 2 things you should do before going off well maintained roads: 1. Set up your controls so that they are comfortable to operate from a standing position while wearing off-road appropriate boots. 2. Add enough protection to your bike so that nothing breaks when you dump it at 5 mph. Bonus tip: leave your nice expensive street helmet at home so it stays nice.
I applaud your approach to attitude and encouragement to relieve beginning rider's anxieties! I agree with the gear assessment and was ecstatic to see a case made for good boots... but was rather saddened at the actual recommendations. As you said, there is an appreciable difference in injury prevention between wholly inappropriate work/hiking boots and proper moto boots, but there is yet still a significant difference between entry level offroad and higher end offroad boots that I argue becomes even more important in the world of heavy ADV/dualsport bikes, especially when coupled with a less experienced rider. I say this only to pass on my own experience of the prior naiveties I have overcome and hopefully convince a few people to take a hard look at how their boots are actually constructed and the differences between a $100 and $500 boot.
Physically compare a boot like the Corozal with its single plastic medial blade stiffener on one side of the ankle to a high end MX boot (Such as Gaerne SG-12 or Sidi Crossfire 2) with two hinged ankle braces or even a mid to high end ADV boot (Such as Alpinestars Toucan or the Sidi Adventure) with a single ankle brace and the differences in injury prevention it affords becomes quite apparent if try to bend them or twist them at the ankle, especially after they are well worn in and a boot without hinges has become extremely soft. One only has to imagine their foot in there when a motorcycle that weighs twice as much or more as the rider exerts some unexpected force against it. A TPU panel or single medial blade cannot adequately prevent hyper extension or torsional injuries, which I think is especially important when riding a larger/heavier bike, not to mention a lack of impact protection as well. The difference in price is paltry compared to the cost of a single foot injury, ending a big trip early, time lost riding or working, or even the longevity of the boot (higher end boots are more durable and have replaceable parts.) Truly good boots are extremely cheap insurance relative to the risk. The only significant injury I have suffered in ~20 years of offroad riding was during a very minor off when I dropped my 320 lbs DRZ (Heavy for a dirtbike, very light for an ADV bike) on my leg at a standstill in a pair of Corozals, a hyper extension injury that my SG-12s would have easily prevented. I have been on-site of or in the company of enough friends with moto related leg injuries, some of which could have been prevented with better boots, that I should have known better that day.
There's my rant, personally, I just say NO to soggy waffle boots!
Love it, honesty…….old guy out of shape. I’m switching from years of mountaineering and backcountry skiing to riding and exploring the gravel roads. BDR rides look awesome, my same pack loads not on my back anymore but on the panniers.
I agree with all of these points. I'm a guy who bought his first motorcycle (a used KLR 650) 4 years ago when I turned 50, and this is excellent advice that would have helped me as a new rider. I'm still a novice at best, but working on improving my skills every time I gear up and ride, and your videos have been a great source of inspiration and help. Thank you, and keep 'em coming!
Your candour and consideration are top notch. Wonderful and welcoming attitude. 👍🏻💯
Awesome message Ben. Ride how you want within your abilities. Enjoy your experience.
This is the second video of yours that I've watched. You're two for two so far. Keep up the great work and thanks?
Great stuff! I've been a solo long distance touring bike rider for a long time but recently got the bug to buy a used 250L and try to re-capture some of the experiences that got me started as a pre-teen in the 1970s on a Honda CT70. You've confirmed some things I've been thinking about (boots, gear) as well as made me consider things I hadn't previously. Appreciate what you said about the ADV community ... hope to meet some of you on the trails!
Great advice and well put together, Thank you. 15 year sportsbike rider just bought my first Adventure bike, Transalp 1987 and am soaking up all videos and advice. Just riding with knobby tyres on the road is a whole different experience. I can't wait to start dropping my bike off road. New subscriber :-)
I’m up in Ontario Canada your videos help me survive the winters here lol. But I purchased my first dual sport and I’m taking a dirt bike course in the spring ! First day on they’re bike next day on mine. Looking forward to it. Keep the content going love it.
I too just bought a 300l after doing the intro to off road at Horseshoe Valley last fall. After 15 years on a Harley I am looking forward to dusting the trails in Ontario!
@@stewartdunkley4108 lol that’s the course I’m taking. To funny small world bro. Ride safe when this white crap is gone lol
Loved this vid. When I was about 10, I had a little Yamaha 80 motocross bike hand me down. LOVED it. Fast forward 40+ years and I'm wanting to get back to riding. It's been a long time, but I'm thinking about buying a dual sport. Your dual sport/adventure bike vids make it easier to decide. Thanks!
All excellent advice - especially #4 . Thanks for the smart, cool , funny banter on who we are , and why we should just enjoy and keep learning! Riding a motorcycle has truly changed my quality of life, and your level headed encouragement is terrific reassurance for any of us who may occasionally feel a little "less than".
Dork.... absolutely outstanding list. For those who read the comments, no matter if your an old or new to this.... USE THIS LIST.
So many of these points were exactly the ones I went through. Great video!
Absolutely fantastic. We so needed to hear this reassuring advice thank you. I grew up in NYC and was a street rider all my life. At 58 I'm just starting to get into ADV riding. I needed to hear this !
Great Job Ben! I haven’t touched dirt since last summer’s training adventure in Oregon from fear of dropping my bike and injuring myself again but your video is right on point, it’s going to happen, start slowly and just do what your comfortable at. Forrest roads here I come!!
Highly....really, highly suggest a good used bike when you start of......off roading. A pre scratched bike will do wonders for your willingness to "try" things.
@@MrRodwatson thanks Rod, but my 2019 AT has been scratched and dropped, but as far as I’m concerned that’s what it’s for
360'ed my left ankle in offroad training at BMW. Spent a week in Spartanburg, SC hospital rebuilding it. Another year in recovery. I had hightop riding/hiking boots. Wear proper adventure boots offroad. They suck to walk around in. They are weird to learn to shift in because you can't feel much. But they will save your legs.
This is Great insight Dork, love it! One thing I wish I knew before I (traded in my 1300 for 250 dual sport)started riding dirt/trails was the importance of bike weight. Lighter is better especially if you're going to add weight (camping gear) to bike with luggage. I ride and I camp, but I never blended the two together. 1) I have a ton camping gear 2) I sleep comfortable on an air mattress. I plan to do the TAT but will stay in hotels (which can get $$) unless anyone has any suggestions how I can pack super light I'm open to ideas. Thanks in advanced! :)
Dude! Awesome video!!! Many words of great wisdom based on experience and Passed On! Thank you so much
Loved this man! I'm taking my GSA off road for the first time this year. Have been buying loads of kit and extras to protect the bike and myself. I'm going to take the lesson here and chill out, do it at my own pace and enjoy. Thank you
Good luck man! I bought my Triumph Tiger Explorer with the intention of using it as my primary off road dual sport. I figured with a good set of 50-50 tires, I’d be rocking the trails with 1200cc’s of stump jumping power! However, by the 3rd ride and probably 15th drop, I realized picking my 600 pound “adventure bike” up off the trail was not that much fun. Actually, sticking red hot skewers down my ear canal would’ve been more fun! So I retired my Tiger to 100% road touring and bought a CRF250L for woods riding. It was then I learned it was much easier to ride off road without constantly dumping the bike and when I did, it was much easier to pick up a 300# bike. I wish you the best of luck on the GSA, you’re a braver man than I.
I’ve watched most of your videos, the best line, I’m old, overweight and outa shape. You are honest and engaging. Telling it like it is. How about running for office. We can take the honesty easier than the BS. Keep riding and reporting. BTW, I’m 67 and outa shape, but happy. Soon as the 9’ of snow at my house melts, crf1100 and gone!
Thanks Ben. Your list of 7 is spot on. As a new old rider I related to this video. I hadn’t been on a bike in years. I’d been seeing ADV groups frequently around here as I live in the Washington foothills. Bought myself a Tenere last year and looking forward to a full season with my new friends and learning new skills and enjoying the rides. Thanks Dork for all you do for the ADV community.
Great info. I grew up on a dirt bike and racing Offroad trucks. Now I’m older I got a 4x4 Toyota and I love the slower pace and enjoy the view of Gods country. I picked up a Honda 450rL and I haven’t gotten a chance to take it in the dirt yet. But I look forward to exploring. You’re so right about the online influence. I feel bad for the younger generations that will never be content with going slow.
Great video. I have to agree with all 7. I have been riding for 30 years, but just recently started exploring the ADV world. The dirt is so different, and yet similar. Knowing how shifting your weight around affects the motorcycle is important in both situations. The loose stuff (especially sand) is still my nemesis, lol. I am planning a trip to Alaska and then down to San Diego and back to the east coast this year. I just wanted to put it out there that your content, along with others like As the Magpie Flies and For the Love of Knobs, has inspired me to plan this trip and actually make it happen. So, I wanted to thank you for the inspiration and good content, and for being my internet riding buddy. Thank you.
Thank you so much for this video. I am buying a new 2024 Gas Gas ES500 for the first time in 25 years, am nervous about the first ride and appreciate you.
I've watched your content since you had about 25k subs, and its great to see you really enjoying it and showing the world what this type of riding offers. I traded my Vstrom for a DRZ and you were definitely a reason for that, and I love it! Cheers man and thanks for the great videos
DRZ is a great bike. I hope you love it!
I am 40 year plus street rider. I have stunted bikes a bit in my youth and I am very confident on the street. I just got into ADV and want to say thank you for helping me calm the F down and just let it come in its own time. Much love and ride on
Great video and a your personality and content has gotten me into wanting a dual sport. You’re very inspiring. I completed my msf a few months and saving up to buy my first bike this spring. Thanks for all you do!
Thanks for this great video. It may have been said elsewhere but one thing I wish I knew before getting into ADV riding was I don't need a BMW 1200 GSA or similar to enjoy off road riding. Initially I started ADV riding on a Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer which is waaaaayyy to large for a beginner ADV rider. I now have a Honda CB500X equipped with Rally Raid level 2 kit and this is ideal for moto camping in the back country. Thanks again.
Hi Dork. Been following you regularly since I discovered your channel back when you were riding the DRZ. You remind me of when I was a young 50 yo beginning ADV rider back in 2003 in Southern California. This video is the BEST one I have seen to date for advice to new riders about how to get started riding ADV. I suffered through all of your bullet points. We just relocated to the PNW this spring and looking forward to getting my DRZs and KLR out of storage and running again but we have to finish our move and necessary improvements our new cottage in Ridgefield. This "geezer on a DRZ-er" is looking forward to meeting you on the road somewhere, some time this spring.... I'll bring the Buffalo Trace. Again Great job on this video.
Thanks for the inviting message. I’ve always been super interested in motorcycles but never bought one until I was an adult because everyone around me said they were too dangerous. My first bike was a couple years ago, a Yamaha virago 250. Im now wanting to dabble in off road riding because I love camping and 4x4 roads and exploring FS roads. I got a phenomenal deal on a running KLR 250 for $800 but I’ve been afraid to get out much because of the intimidation factor of being a new rider and not knowing anyone in the community. I recently moved to western Washington and really want to get out and explore some of these legendary trails and logging roads. Your video makes me feel welcomed and invited. Now I just need to find someone to go with 😅
3:46 caught me offguard and made me shoot coffee out of my nose..... Thnx Dork!
Please give my apologies to the dude at 3:46 and I hope Superman is OK.
When I was in college in the early to mid '90's, I rode all over the fire roads & trails in Southwest VA. There were great mountain roads to cross and end up anywhere and everywhere. At the end of the day, I was worn out and could hit the highway home from just about anywhere. The bike I rode was a 1973 CL350 scrambler twin & it never failed to get me anywhere I wanted to go & home again. No GPS, I just used the USGS Forest Service topographic maps.
As a newb to this, I always find your videos helpful in just focusing on getting out there and riding. It’s easy to watch all the cool ADV videos (especially in winter) but reminding myself why I got into it which was for exploration not wheelies and death-defying single track. Keep on creating please! And hope to see you at the Touratech Rally this year!
Nicely stated as usual, from a 67 year old Californian with a Honda XR650L.
Hey, I know that guy taking a header in that pond! I’m great for a good “what not to do!”