Tips for riding techniques

[bikerlady]

It would be great to get some off-road driving tips from everyone. Please also for heavier bikes as I have a BMW 1150 GS. I am aware that this is not a desert bike, but certainly good for Wadis and gravel trails. What's the best techniques getting the bike around a curve on gravel, especially downhill? How should brakes be used on gravel? I would appreciate some good tips! Cheers!

[admin]

Hi,
assuming you have GPS so you can check trips we have done earlier in MapSource (see attachement).
When it comes to curves and gravel, I usually deflate tires to 22PSI and when going downhill I break with second gear as long as rear wheel got a traction (my bike KTM990 - no ABS) If you have ABS I recommend switch it off. Lot also depends on your tires selection as on road tires will loose grip almost immediately as BMW is even 100Kg heavier then KTM.
I've seen BMW GS1200 getting through same terrain as KTM 990 it just require rider skills

[KTM950]

the season starts soon and there will be again off-road trips organized. We will start with light off-road rides (gravel) and you are welcome to join. Watch out for posts.

[bikerlady]

Thanks for the tips! Yes, the GS is a heavy beast! Another BMW rider suggested to ride with ABS on, but in standing position only using front brake. I tried it in leveled gravel ground areas and certainly the satnding position gives a lot more control. Have to try the other tips off-road.
Please let me know, if you are planning some easy off-road trips to define my skills! Thanks!

[koray]

THAT MAKES TWO , I WOULD LOVE TO JOIN AS WELL . JUST BOUGHT A GS100 ADV. AND EARLIER HAD MOSTLY SPORT BIKES NEW O THAT LINE. SOME TIPS AND PARTICIPATION TO EASY STARTING LEVEL RIDES WOULD BE GREAT, ONE ISSUE WITH ME IS I AM IN ABU DHAB BUT WILL MAKE AN EFFORT TO JOIN TO DXB RIDES AS WELL . REGARDS KORAY

[KTM950]

as soon we have the first light off-road trip you will recieve the details by e-mail. expect end of September, when temperatures are better.

[beaujarle]

It would be great to get some off-road driving tips from everyone. Please also for heavier bikes as I have a BMW 1150 GS. I am aware that this is not a desert bike, but certainly good for Wadis and gravel trails. What's the best techniques getting the bike around a curve on gravel, especially downhill? How should brakes be used on gravel? I would appreciate some good tips! Cheers!

Wow.!!!! From the 15/1/10 ride... you seem to ride like a seasoned off-roader...