Adventure bike riding is an exhilarating experience, combining the thrill of the open road with the beauty of nature. But even the most seasoned riders know that the unpredictability of the trail can throw curveballs when you least expect it. This is a story about one such ride and the lessons we learned along the way.
The Journey Begins
Our group of riders set out early one crisp morning, the sun just beginning to peak over the horizon, casting long shadows on the dusty trail ahead. The lead bike, a robust BMW R1150GS Adventure, was a sight to behold, its powerful engine roaring with the promise of an exciting day ahead. We were well-prepared, or so we thought, with an array of tools and spare parts packed neatly in our saddlebags.
As we ventured deeper into the rugged terrain, the ride was going smoothly — until it wasn’t.
Trouble on the Trail
Without warning, the lead bike refused to start up and let out a loud bang. Then nothing. We were miles away from the nearest town, surrounded by nothing but the vast, open farm lands. Despite our collective experience, we knew we were in a tough spot.
We quickly unpacked our tools and got to work. We checked the obvious culprits: fuel injectors, battery connections, spark plugs — nothing seemed out of place. Hours passed as we meticulously went through the possibilities, but the bike remained stubbornly silent.
The Reality of Adventure
Sometimes, no matter how prepared you are, things don’t go according to plan. As the day wore on, we realised that this was one of those times. It was a tough pill to swallow, but we had to admit defeat. The BMW was not going to start, and we had no choice but to opt for a recovery vehicle and trailer.
This experience was a stark reminder that adventure biking is as much about adapting to the unexpected as it is about the ride itself. You can plan every detail, but sometimes the trail has other ideas. And that’s okay. It’s part of the adventure, part of the challenge, and part of the story you’ll tell when you get back home.
Be Prepared: Essential Tools and Parts
While our story ended with a recovery, it reinforced the importance of being prepared. Here’s a list of common tools and parts every rider should consider carrying on an adventure bike trip:
- Basic Tool Kit: A compact tool kit with wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and a tire repair kit.
- Spare Tubes and Tire Levers: For those unexpected flat tires.
- Portable Air Compressor or CO2 Inflator: To reinflate tires after repairs.
- Multi-tool: A versatile tool that can handle a variety of tasks.
- Duct Tape and Zip Ties: These can be lifesavers for quick fixes on the trail.
- Spare Fuses: Electrical issues can often be traced back to a blown fuse.
- Spare Spark Plugs: Handy if your engine starts misfiring.
- Chain Lube and Cleaner: Keeping your chain in good condition is crucial for the ride.
- First Aid Kit: For any minor injuries that might occur.
- Extra Fuel: In case you venture further than expected.
Adventure biking is a journey filled with unexpected turns. Being prepared with the right tools and mindset can make all the difference when things go awry. But even with the best preparation, sometimes the road has other plans, and that’s just part of the adventure. So pack wisely, stay flexible, and embrace the unknown — because that’s where the true adventure lies.
And it turned out to be loose fuel hose connector under the tank.
All photos by Dylan Haskin.