 Richard & Jude’s post. 18/05/23 We have been looking into the Route options over the past few weeks with the aim of trying to get a plan that is as close as possible to a feasible route from Aus to the UK. Firstly, having spoken to a few logistics companies, it looks like we can fly the bikes from Perth to Bali, Indonesia, with the aim of then riding across three islands to then catch a ship across to Malaysia. In Perth we will service the bikes, probably get a new set of tyres and we will have to drain the bikes of fuel, disconnect the battery and get a certificate stating that the bikes are not classified as dangerous goods so we can airfreight them. We then have to crate the bikes and deliver them to the Logistics company for airfreight to Denpasar in Bali. We will then have to fly to Bali and hope the bikes clear customs quickly. Both bikes have to have CPD Carnets which is like a temporary import permit allowing us to bring them into various Carnet participating countries without having to pay Duty and sales tax. Dave has suggested we include Cambodia on our route, which is very exciting, and he is going to propose a route from Malaysia, through Thailand, into Cambodia and Laos before we cross the border into China. Having done some quick research it looks like there are some amazing sights to see in these countries. I am also very much looking forward to the gastronomic delights of this region. Jah, our China tour guide, threw a curve ball at us a few weeks ago saying that China does not issue motorcycle licenses (a requirement) to anyone over 60 and as Lawrence and I will be 60 this may present a problem. Jah is taking a group of over 60s this June so he is hoping to convince the authorities to make an exception for tourists. Fingers crossed. Turkmenistan is looking like an issue as it appears that being issued tourist visas is a bit of a lottery. Not only that we would have to hire a guide for the time in the country which adds a huge expense to the trip. Our plan was to ride across Turkmenistan and catch the ferry across the Caspian Sea from Turkmenbashi to Baku in Azerbaijan. Crossing the Caspian sea is a must. It does however look possible to catch a ferry from Aktau in Kazakhstan to Baku. The visa requirements for Kazakhstan seem mush more favorable. Routine Maintenance The current route plan shows that we will be riding the bikes for about 30,000 Kms which means that we will have to perform at least two bike services along the way plus any repairs (hopefully none). With that in mind I though it would be prudent to carry out a complete service on my bike now to make sure I have all the parts, tools and know how. Working on the bike was a dream in comparison to servicing and repairing the marine engine on our boat, which is not only much larger but is also in a confined space. I performed the following service items. Engine oil and oil filter change Air filter change Spark plugs changed Rear differential gear oil change Drive shaft spline inspection and grease Change brake pads front and rear Clean brake calipers Flush and bleed front and back brake systems and fill with new fluid Bleed the ABS system Check clutch system and fluid reservoir. Check cylinder valve clearances and replace valve shims to meet specifications. (All valves were within tolerance but 3 of the 8 valves were close so I made some adjustments) Perform full electrical system diagnostics check Check torque values on bolts around the bike and general check for faults. Check wheel spokes.   
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One of Lobo's inspirations for his 44 year biking career was Ogri, the iconic cartoon character from Bike Magazine. He has always wanted a tattoo but had never been able to settle on a design and didn't want to take himself too seriously - so turning 60 this year, what better than to immortalise his long time hero! We are told that he is actually preparing in earnest and that his bike/kit preparations are almost complete - watch this space.
 Lobo and Linda’s post Dave, Lobo and Richard are all experienced riders but old dogs can always learn and where better than with the ‘best in the business’, Steve Ireland and WOR Events. Lobo has worked with Steve for many years but always marvels at the way he conjures up new venues and inspirational competition formats, none more so than the UK GNCC held in Worcestershire last weekend. Dave and Lobo marshalled for 3 days (see image) including the Ride Enduro (RED) practice/playday on the Saturday - what a venue what an event! Dave & Leah run Rams Adventures and specialise in off-road adventures to Vietnam and other parts of the world and always recommend the WOR RED days to anyone contemplating riding with them. It’s hard to beat the riding experience you will gain from one of these days - where else would you get the opportunity to ride a ‘full on’ Enduro track on your own bike in a non-intimidating format. These events will give you the experience to ride with confidence anywhere in the world, whether you’re an ‘old dog’ or new to off-road riding and as Steve always says, “there really is no substitute for time on the bike”. Better Call Saul - no, Better Call Steve! |
