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The reason why your channel is so awesome is because you’re honest and real. You’re humble and care about your followers. Thank you for taking the time to share!
On any trip, I start with sleeping gear, food and food prep gear, then first aid and tool gear, then minimal clothing options… all my planning revolves around a three day trip and recycle plan, -doesn’t matter if it’s two days or two weeks.
After every trip I come home with stuff I never used. Up until your WABDR series I never really thought about there being two different ways to go: 1) Riding to Camp 2) Camping to Ride I’ve since been building two set ups based on this. The absolute musts for me, even for day trips: Bear spray Fly w/ paracord First aid Tools Water
I did 3500 miles of the tat earlier this summer solo, got cut short due to injured elbow in Utah, I took basically the same setup as you minus the table and extra cookware. Glad I did. When traveling alone the confidence of knowing you have the stuff you may need means alot. I will definitely finish the tat at a later date for sure
I will say that your videos are becoming invaluable considering I'm getting ready for the wabdr bext year. I also tend to overpack so thank you very much for taking the time to make these videos. I've got a 23 bmw f850gsa so it's already a heavy bike so I'll be going barebones as much as possible. Keep it up and I hope to see you out on a bdr!
Good summary Ben. I just got back from a 2 week ride up to Amanda's Rocky Mountain Roll and did the same inventory of what I brought. Like you the 2 areas I brought to much stuff was food (I brought my entire 2 weeks meals, mistake!) and clothes. My kit weighed 60 lbs including water and a gallon of fuel in a rotorpax. Going forward, I'll probably slow my daily pace and carry minimal food, opting for eating locally when I fuel up. Vids like you, Amanda, Tim Collins and others put out made my first long motorcycle camping trip a success. Thanks for the awesome channel and continued great content.
The sea to summit xl towel is super dope. It packs down to absolutely, palm of your hand, takes up no space nothing... And it dries quick. Just picked one up when we were camping by the riverside and it was nice to have. And it's only like $20.
Not too bad. A couple of things I like: 1. camp towel that is not terrycloth. Less space and dries fastest. 2. Ditch the cotton socks and invest in some Darn Tough or Smartwool. I am a card carrying member of the Fraternal Order of Cheap Bastards and even I invested in better socks. Way better for your feet and less smelly. 3. I ditched the fleece and went to a “puffy”. Packs small and is warm as a Texas brothel in August.
I'm doing the WABDAR this weekend and in the process of loading essential gear, clothes, and food. I'm on a smaller bike so space is even more important. While I subscribe to the "I'd rather have it and not need it, rather than need it and not have it" club, there is line I don't like to cross... I try to find items that can do multiple tasks. A multi-tool is invaluable has a knife and some basic tools. A light that can charge my phone. ect... but the tent sleeping back pad pillow combo stays the same... when I'm dealing with clothes, I try to go with light weight stuff in the summer...2- t-shirts and a pair of shorts with flip flops. But one thing I do do is I take worn underwear and socks from the drawer with me. When I wear one item, I through it away... sock with a hole in it or a worn set of underwear go in the dumpster on my trip somewhere. keeps me fresh and by bags clean... Good review! I enjoyed the series!
If you're familiar with the Adventure Rider forum there are a couple of threads that can be very helpful for over packers. The art of packing light and the art of packing ultralight. Lots of great ideas from experienced riders.
Glad to see the follow up. Personally, if you don’t care about the weight, go for it. I’d ditch the saw, hatchet, grill, tent, tarp, quilt, blanket/poncho. Pick up a Hennessy hammock (comes with tarp). Most cooking gear (meals you have is perfect), water purifier, ditch one fuel canister, lighten the straps. that being said I’d love to ride with you with all that stuff. I’d try to stay around 65 lbs. thanks for the follow up again. Cool video.
I used to bring a humidor but got tired of the bulk and now just use gallon ziplock bags with a moisture source stuffed in. Bonus is as you smoke the cache down you get the space back. Typically keep those in my tank bag and haven’t had any issues with them getting smooshed.
Flask looked small, really small, perhaps have a 2nd or 3rd flask to be included with first aid kit. If the space is there it will be filled. The best way to pack lighter is to have smaller bags.
Pretty similar to what I carry. I don't use a pillow but instead use my down jacket as a replacement. Chair is also a necessity for me and I'm thinking of adding a table at some point. I have a life straw bottle but ended up switching for a water bag w/filter. That way I can fill any water bottle with clean water as well as use it as a shower in camp instead of having to dunk my head in some awkward-to-reach creek. Love the video, keep up the excellent work!
I'm into ultralight backpacking. As an ultralight backpacker, I have learned the greatest "luxury item" I can carry... is simply a light backpack! Along those lines, I apply this principle to my dual sport motorcycle trips. I applaud the effort to pare down. Still seems a bit heavy to me but not worth quibbling over what is important to you that may not be to me. As I say in the backpacking community, "hike your own hike". Excellent channel!
Nice video. I don’t really question what people take since it’s their preference. I can’t believe people questioned the chair. To me that is as essential as my tent.
10/10 will always bring a chair. If I'm doing anything in a group I actually pack two of the Cliq chairs, in case someone ever needs one. Thus far every trip the second one has been put to use. They take up very little space and tuck nice and flat side-by-side in the bottom of the RTW bag.
1st time on WABDR I took too much food and cooking items. Not really necessary. The saw is a must have. Would have been screwed (didn't have one) but a jeep with a winch was able to pull away a tree that fell over the trail on the side of a mountain (couldn't go around it). Best thing to pack on a the BDR is a light motorcycle because you will crash at some point.
Great video bud, too many people don’t police their gear after a trip. I would also recommend the 3 sucks 3 buffs rule. Every time you do a thing, think of 3 sucks and 3 buffs, not only is improvement a good thing, but recognition of being a woods Wookiee is a great confidence builder. Cheers see you out there.
Same scenario when i was doing long distance hiking. Every area/terrain needs something different beyond the basics. The only thing that doesn't change is the need to keep an open mind to learn. I can't wait to start my long distance motorcycle hiking. Fun stuff!
Very good, very helpful. My first trip was the TAT and I took WAY too much stuff. I wrote everything down, right bag, left bag, etc. and did what you just did. Table is controversial but don’t like open flame between my legs. I take a chair for same reason. I still want to cut down so your film super helpful
Yep, too much stuff. My rule when hiking or riding is 40 lbs plus water. The water varies quite a bit depending on season, terrain, and length of stay. That means getting brutal with all of the heavy stuff during the go/no go cutting contest but it works. Keep on riding!
Great topic. Not that I moto camp often, but I’ve been watching Dan Becker lately to get ideas to counter my chronic overpacking tendency haha. I don’t photo or video, so at least there’s that.
I road the NEBDR this summer, North to South for similar reasons to yours. I was camping and new friends were politely ribbing me about my hatchet (a similar model to yours) while using it to gather their firewood. That was until a kickstand came partially loose and then was bent severely when the bolt finally let loose. This made it impossible to remount the kickstand because the holes no longer lined up. Then the hatchet became a hammer and we beat the kickstand back into alignment. Point, hatchet is also a hammer.
I did the same thing after I did the TAT. I went through my gear and made take and don’t take again piles. By as I went through most everything I brought I used. But I was also living off the bike for 29 days straight. You might go to Walmart or a fishing store and look at some of the Plano tackle boxes that are more like Tupperware for your cigars. Lighter and smaller than that otter box. And remember this, just because you didn’t use something this trip doesn’t mean you won’t need it next. Took my baja no pinch tool and on day 27 I told my nephew probably didn’t need to bring it. Then boom flat tire the next evening. Same thing with my silly saw and my tusk chair. Ended being glad I took them.
Good evaluation. A good full tang knife can process wood. Ditch hatchet. I prioritize extra underwear and socks more than any other clothes. Tent ground sheets can work as small tarps in a pinch. I usually eat one bigger meal on a bdr per day and snack or skip others..
Yeah I have a full tang knife that I'll use for wood in a pinch but it's a lot of work so I'd rather just have a saw I can use to clear trail anyway. ;)
Thanks for sharing your learnings. I have a much smaller Thermacell for backpackers that attaches to fuel canister. Living and camping in CA for the past decade where there is so much wild fire danger and restrictions, I learned to forgo a campfire and thus wood tools. Maybe you can use a tow strap on some downed trees. Since no campfire and sitting so long on the bike, I skip the chair and prefer to stand & walk for a while and then lie down to read a backlit Kindle or listen to music.
Loved the vid! What I'd suggest is to take a page from wilderness backpack hunters; switch to merino wool. Also, saw-yes/axe-no. Replace with a good bushcraft full tang knife like a Condor Bushlore-it'll do everything that axe will do, and is smaller & lighter. Dehydrated food-Packit Gourmet, FAR better than any others! There's tons of lightweight, highly functional gear now, and after 6 decades of wilderness hunting and mountaineering, I've tried it all🙂 We live within a few miles of the Cashmere part of WABDR, and the whole ride's not easy. Congrats for a great ride!
Love this. Def bring the tarp - it may feel like too much, but I have mine on the road, and it's come in handy a ton but at very random moments. Extra cover during torrential downpour. Extra layer between you and gravel to protect the tent. Backup cover for a bike. Sun shield if you are stranded in an area without trees (flats, injury, etc). Obviously depends on the length of trip and usually you only need one or two per group but highly recommend. Loved the BDR vids! :)
Looking at the things you wouldn't take...Did they really take up that much room, and did they all weigh enough to justify not taking them? It didn't really seem so. After all, you'd like to have fun, and being uncomfortable or hungry sucks the fun out of anything. JMTC. Really love the content, Thanks and keep up the great work!!
Yes Ben i have to agree with you about what to pack I tend to over pack with the same things. If I where to be away from any towns I might need all the food but when you are going through a town every day there is no need for all the food. As for clothing if push comes to shuv you can wash things or just buy another at Walmart or some where.
I always look at my gear and divide it into need to have and want to have. Then I try and have gear that has multiple uses. I also try and cut down on stuff that weighs too much and try and find light weight alternatives. If I’m away for a longer trip. I wash my clothes and pick up food and water along the way.
Great vid and yes, you can definitely go much lighter weight. You can be comfortable and prepared while being under 30 pounds all in if you are willing to make a few concessions. While it may not seem a detriment, dropping 50 lbs will make your bike safer, less likely to break and most importantly, more fun!! 🍻
Ouch, 80lbs. I cycled across the USA, camping for the greater part... about 22lb of luggage. Now sure, some of the tools and additional clothing, and your media gear, and the bags are a gauge heavier construction, will adds to that, but at 3min in I'm hoping you're going to get that kit under 50lb. And there are other places where excess weight can be shed! Let's see. Good series this, and how did you mate with the busted leg get on?
It’s a three pile sort apparently. Stuff you used, stuff you didn’t use, and the just in case pile. The just in case pile is where I have trouble as I’m a prepare for the worst and hope for the best type.
As a seasoned backpaker and motorcycle camper a couple of notes: Agree with the other on the table and chair but to each their own. You can never bring too many socks. Camp towel (I like the cellouse ones now) is better than just "a towel". Your spare tarp in most weather can double for the poncho/spare blanket thing. The inflator...do you also carry a tire inflator? If so, in the future find a mini-inflator that can do both. First aid kit is REALLY big. Pair it down to things you will use in non-emergency situations (10 bandaids, a couple butterflies, antibiotic gel, one small roll of gauze, alcohol wipes). Then learn how to use items you already carry for all the other things. Do add, though expensive, some version of dermabond (usually can only get vet grade)...better than stitches for almost everything if it just has to get you off the mountain. You do not strike me a guy willing to whip a few stitches into you or others' in the field regardless.
What's the shelf life of dermabond, I REALLY coulda used that on my motocamping trip. First day out in the Nez perce forest huge leg gash and had to ride back to town 6 hrs for 17 stitches😬
@@mbrad2669 Officially, looks like two years. My two commercially available bottles of Vetbond are probably due to be replaced at four years old before my next trip. I got spoiled as I had a bunch of the military grade stuff an Aussie medic gave me when working in Iraq and I used the last applicator 8 years after he gave them to me. I used it last on myself when a truck retread gave me 6 shallow gashes on my calf and I did not want to stop riding...20 minutes cleaning it up and carefully applying...only seeped a tiny bit over the next three days.
Its hard to watch so much stuff come out of your bags. I hike the AT in 2021, 2193.1 miles with about 25lbs counting food and 2L of water. As I am getting into adventure motorcycling I think I might go with a lighter bike since I know I can live without soo much stuff.
In my opinion so much of this depends on how big a bike and the room you have to haul all your stuff. Also how much can be shared with other riders. On my last trip (WABDR) My entire luggage and its contents on my 701 was 42 pounds. normally anything we can share we do like our tools, tubes, first aid and cooking we normally spread out among the riders and share the load. My two cents.
I'm working on some trip planning packing right now. However, I think I'm going to leave all camping and cooking at home. I'll probably end up with more empty luggage space than you have, but still make sure it's abundant.
I just stay within the limits of 65 liter hickers set up.. then if necessary i use my paniers rack for fuel and water.. I do cheat the system tho with some canned food. But i can easily fit everything i need in a lone rider overland bag and then lash my tent and what not down to it..
I'm guessing a problem with taking a big bike is the desire to bring more stuff. My WABDR, I had a smaller bike and took only 30 lbs of luggage. But I really couldn't bring much more with my bike and luggage setup (giant loop great basin 1st gen). I have a rigid leather case that holds 3 cigars. Might work better for you.
Really with the Nord or Yammy you didnt go crazy bringing stuff with the those bikes what's another 80lbs.. So different scenario, lets say you were doing the BDR with the new Honda, what ya gonna do?
Instead of DEET , consider picaridin insect repellents. Picaridin does not adversely affect synthetic clothing and would likely not be detrimental to your bike seat. I also find the smell or DEET much more offensive than that of picaridin. Enjoyed this review. Just planning my first
I want to go super light and stay in hotels.....not sure if that is possible depending on the BDR i guess, but I feel like I still need some camping gear in case I get stuck out somewhere.
You do say "it weighs nothing " but a lot of nothings do equal something. Ounces =pounds. When backpacking you cut down thins like a tooth brush handle , or carry travel size toiletries etc. do those ounces don't become pounds.
Ounces become pounds, pounds become pain. The best rule to follow is other than emergency equipment, if you aren't using it nearly every day then you don't need to bring it.
If you're a beginner adv rider, or just just want to enjoy the riding experience, without lugging a ton of gear on the bike, I highly recommend ditching the whole idea of camping out, and just rent cabins along the route. 1. You don't have to buy expensive camping gear, before you know if adv trips is your cup of tea. 2. You won't have to put up camp in the rain, when you're tired (which basically sucks) Is it cheating? Yes, a little, but who cares?🙂
I'm curious though, you mentioned you'd rather not use a Norden or t7 , but a smaller bike. You did very well on the Norden, and although I'm sure it would be easier on a smaller lighter bike , how much more comfortable was the Norden ( the seat, the ride ) . Being a big guy like yourself, riding a smaller bike would really beat the shit out of me. Would the trade off be really worth it?
Yeah the ride up there would have been much more uncomfortable on a dual sport but I'd have had three times the confidence on the rough stuff so it's a trade off, I guess. I was definitely a little overwhelmed not knowing what to expect on the rougher sections. Now that I know I might consider taking the big bike again, but I'd definitely take less stuff.
I’m down to 70 pounds for a 1-5 week adventure but my goal is 50 pounds. I personally don’t take a saw or hatchet, I use a machete instead. Your chair is huge. I used bear spray in Alaska and northern Canada and never felt the need to use it in Washington. Your flask is way too small.
DEET is some powerful stuff and works well, but maybe a little too powerful especially at the higher mixes. Makes my skin feel like I've rubbed on gasoline. I'm trying to stick with Picaridin and Permethrin
Although i would love to take the axe, too much weight, an no good place to put it. The saw definite for processing, but useless really as there are fire bans where i live right now. So need the propane boil.
Any idea why some of your videos aren't showing up as new? I'm having to go to your channel on my subscription page to look for your videos. They aren't showing up on the list of new videos from my subscription channels.
I see a common theme with many "ADV " types, putting single items into bags that could be substituted with a simple and light ziplock bags. Ending up with 15 bags in one.. hmm wha? Most riders, specially in the U.S., could benefit from not bringing along 3000 cheese burgers;)
No. They'll protect you in a slide but off road you need impact protection and support if you come down hard on your foot and land on an awkward angle on a rock or something.
@@DorkintheRoad bugger, bike has character now i guess. Maybe an upholsterer could recover for you. Always thought DEET was a bit on the corrosive side. Almost ironic you took bear spray and the mozzie threat turned out to be a problem. Still could have been worse i guess.
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The reason why your channel is so awesome is because you’re honest and real. You’re humble and care about your followers. Thank you for taking the time to share!
On any trip, I start with sleeping gear, food and food prep gear, then first aid and tool gear, then minimal clothing options… all my planning revolves around a three day trip and recycle plan, -doesn’t matter if it’s two days or two weeks.
After every trip I come home with stuff I never used.
Up until your WABDR series I never really thought about there being two different ways to go:
1) Riding to Camp
2) Camping to Ride
I’ve since been building two set ups based on this.
The absolute musts for me, even for day trips:
Bear spray
Fly w/ paracord
First aid
Tools
Water
I did 3500 miles of the tat earlier this summer solo, got cut short due to injured elbow in Utah, I took basically the same setup as you minus the table and extra cookware. Glad I did. When traveling alone the confidence of knowing you have the stuff you may need means alot. I will definitely finish the tat at a later date for sure
I will say that your videos are becoming invaluable considering I'm getting ready for the wabdr bext year. I also tend to overpack so thank you very much for taking the time to make these videos. I've got a 23 bmw f850gsa so it's already a heavy bike so I'll be going barebones as much as possible. Keep it up and I hope to see you out on a bdr!
Good summary Ben. I just got back from a 2 week ride up to Amanda's Rocky Mountain Roll and did the same inventory of what I brought. Like you the 2 areas I brought to much stuff was food (I brought my entire 2 weeks meals, mistake!) and clothes. My kit weighed 60 lbs including water and a gallon of fuel in a rotorpax. Going forward, I'll probably slow my daily pace and carry minimal food, opting for eating locally when I fuel up. Vids like you, Amanda, Tim Collins and others put out made my first long motorcycle camping trip a success. Thanks for the awesome channel and continued great content.
The sea to summit xl towel is super dope. It packs down to absolutely, palm of your hand, takes up no space nothing... And it dries quick. Just picked one up when we were camping by the riverside and it was nice to have. And it's only like $20.
Just used one as well and it's awesome.
Anyone who wears glasses should get one of these. It's microfiber so I've been using one of these to clean my glasses and also as a towel
Microfiber towel from a hiking store works great and they don't stink.
Not too bad. A couple of things I like:
1. camp towel that is not terrycloth. Less space and dries fastest.
2. Ditch the cotton socks and invest in some Darn Tough or Smartwool. I am a card carrying member of the Fraternal Order of Cheap Bastards and even I invested in better socks. Way better for your feet and less smelly.
3. I ditched the fleece and went to a “puffy”. Packs small and is warm as a Texas brothel in August.
I'm doing the WABDAR this weekend and in the process of loading essential gear, clothes, and food. I'm on a smaller bike so space is even more important. While I subscribe to the "I'd rather have it and not need it, rather than need it and not have it" club, there is line I don't like to cross... I try to find items that can do multiple tasks. A multi-tool is invaluable has a knife and some basic tools. A light that can charge my phone. ect... but the tent sleeping back pad pillow combo stays the same... when I'm dealing with clothes, I try to go with light weight stuff in the summer...2- t-shirts and a pair of shorts with flip flops. But one thing I do do is I take worn underwear and socks from the drawer with me. When I wear one item, I through it away... sock with a hole in it or a worn set of underwear go in the dumpster on my trip somewhere. keeps me fresh and by bags clean... Good review! I enjoyed the series!
If you're familiar with the Adventure Rider forum there are a couple of threads that can be very helpful for over packers. The art of packing light and the art of packing ultralight. Lots of great ideas from experienced riders.
Glad to see the follow up. Personally, if you don’t care about the weight, go for it. I’d ditch the saw, hatchet, grill, tent, tarp, quilt, blanket/poncho. Pick up a Hennessy hammock (comes with tarp). Most cooking gear (meals you have is perfect), water purifier, ditch one fuel canister, lighten the straps. that being said I’d love to ride with you with all that stuff. I’d try to stay around 65 lbs. thanks for the follow up again. Cool video.
I used to bring a humidor but got tired of the bulk and now just use gallon ziplock bags with a moisture source stuffed in. Bonus is as you smoke the cache down you get the space back. Typically keep those in my tank bag and haven’t had any issues with them getting smooshed.
Flask looked small, really small, perhaps have a 2nd or 3rd flask to be included with first aid kit. If the space is there it will be filled. The best way to pack lighter is to have smaller bags.
Pretty similar to what I carry. I don't use a pillow but instead use my down jacket as a replacement. Chair is also a necessity for me and I'm thinking of adding a table at some point. I have a life straw bottle but ended up switching for a water bag w/filter. That way I can fill any water bottle with clean water as well as use it as a shower in camp instead of having to dunk my head in some awkward-to-reach creek. Love the video, keep up the excellent work!
Great video. It is so easy to overpack. I do it every time. You would think we would learn!
I'm into ultralight backpacking. As an ultralight backpacker, I have learned the greatest "luxury item" I can carry... is simply a light backpack! Along those lines, I apply this principle to my dual sport motorcycle trips. I applaud the effort to pare down. Still seems a bit heavy to me but not worth quibbling over what is important to you that may not be to me. As I say in the backpacking community, "hike your own hike". Excellent channel!
Excellent! Thanks for the insight. Prepping for BDR 2023 as we speak.
Light is right. All you “need” is a good tent, bag, sleeping pad, knife, marches and good tool kit
Nice video. I don’t really question what people take since it’s their preference. I can’t believe people questioned the chair. To me that is as essential as my tent.
There's a whole subculture of super minimalists out there who think bringing a chair is the same as camping in an RV.
@@DorkintheRoad Ya I have known a few. 😃. I just don't get it. Ride a 500 lb. motorcycle and worry about a few lbs. of comfort.
10/10 will always bring a chair. If I'm doing anything in a group I actually pack two of the Cliq chairs, in case someone ever needs one. Thus far every trip the second one has been put to use. They take up very little space and tuck nice and flat side-by-side in the bottom of the RTW bag.
@@DorkintheRoad Just us Bivy guys and we are weird!!
1st time on WABDR I took too much food and cooking items. Not really necessary. The saw is a must have. Would have been screwed (didn't have one) but a jeep with a winch was able to pull away a tree that fell over the trail on the side of a mountain (couldn't go around it). Best thing to pack on a the BDR is a light motorcycle because you will crash at some point.
I really appreciate how thorough, yet concise you were! Please keep up the great work! You’re working your butt off! We appreciate it!
Thanks man. I'm trying! 😉
Thanks for the video, it's good to see what was needed and what wasn't. Everyone does a loadout video but never a follow-up. "This is the way"
This was perfect! ThanksS
for the debrief!!!!!!!!
I'm packing for the MABDR and struggling to find the balance of too much or not enough crap.
Great video bud, too many people don’t police their gear after a trip. I would also recommend the 3 sucks 3 buffs rule. Every time you do a thing, think of 3 sucks and 3 buffs, not only is improvement a good thing, but recognition of being a woods Wookiee is a great confidence builder. Cheers see you out there.
Same scenario when i was doing long distance hiking. Every area/terrain needs something different beyond the basics. The only thing that doesn't change is the need to keep an open mind to learn. I can't wait to start my long distance motorcycle hiking. Fun stuff!
Hey Ben, always great to see what is needed or not, on long rides, thanks man.
Very good, very helpful. My first trip was the TAT and I took WAY too much stuff. I wrote everything down, right bag, left bag, etc. and did what you just did. Table is controversial but don’t like open flame between my legs. I take a chair for same reason. I still want to cut down so your film super helpful
That was a great review! I got a lot out of this one and will consider it on my next motocamping trip.
Table and chair, I hear you! On the ground sucks!
I am doing a 4-night trip next month, and this video is helpful. Thank you!
Super useful! Thanks for the update!
Yep, too much stuff. My rule when hiking or riding is 40 lbs plus water. The water varies quite a bit depending on season, terrain, and length of stay. That means getting brutal with all of the heavy stuff during the go/no go cutting contest but it works.
Keep on riding!
Great topic. Not that I moto camp often, but I’ve been watching Dan Becker lately to get ideas to counter my chronic overpacking tendency haha. I don’t photo or video, so at least there’s that.
I road the NEBDR this summer, North to South for similar reasons to yours. I was camping and new friends were politely ribbing me about my hatchet (a similar model to yours) while using it to gather their firewood. That was until a kickstand came partially loose and then was bent severely when the bolt finally let loose. This made it impossible to remount the kickstand because the holes no longer lined up. Then the hatchet became a hammer and we beat the kickstand back into alignment. Point, hatchet is also a hammer.
I did the same thing after I did the TAT. I went through my gear and made take and don’t take again piles. By as I went through most everything I brought I used. But I was also living off the bike for 29 days straight. You might go to Walmart or a fishing store and look at some of the Plano tackle boxes that are more like Tupperware for your cigars. Lighter and smaller than that otter box. And remember this, just because you didn’t use something this trip doesn’t mean you won’t need it next. Took my baja no pinch tool and on day 27 I told my nephew probably didn’t need to bring it. Then boom flat tire the next evening. Same thing with my silly saw and my tusk chair. Ended being glad I took them.
Good evaluation. A good full tang knife can process wood. Ditch hatchet. I prioritize extra underwear and socks more than any other clothes. Tent ground sheets can work as small tarps in a pinch. I usually eat one bigger meal on a bdr per day and snack or skip others..
Yeah I have a full tang knife that I'll use for wood in a pinch but it's a lot of work so I'd rather just have a saw I can use to clear trail anyway. ;)
Thanks for sharing your learnings. I have a much smaller Thermacell for backpackers that attaches to fuel canister. Living and camping in CA for the past decade where there is so much wild fire danger and restrictions, I learned to forgo a campfire and thus wood tools. Maybe you can use a tow strap on some downed trees. Since no campfire and sitting so long on the bike, I skip the chair and prefer to stand & walk for a while and then lie down to read a backlit Kindle or listen to music.
Loved the vid! What I'd suggest is to take a page from wilderness backpack hunters; switch to merino wool. Also, saw-yes/axe-no. Replace with a good bushcraft full tang knife like a Condor Bushlore-it'll do everything that axe will do, and is smaller & lighter. Dehydrated food-Packit Gourmet, FAR better than any others! There's tons of lightweight, highly functional gear now, and after 6 decades of wilderness hunting and mountaineering, I've tried it all🙂 We live within a few miles of the Cashmere part of WABDR, and the whole ride's not easy. Congrats for a great ride!
Love this. Def bring the tarp - it may feel like too much, but I have mine on the road, and it's come in handy a ton but at very random moments. Extra cover during torrential downpour. Extra layer between you and gravel to protect the tent. Backup cover for a bike. Sun shield if you are stranded in an area without trees (flats, injury, etc). Obviously depends on the length of trip and usually you only need one or two per group but highly recommend. Loved the BDR vids! :)
Looking at the things you wouldn't take...Did they really take up that much room, and did they all weigh enough to justify not taking them? It didn't really seem so. After all, you'd like to have fun, and being uncomfortable or hungry sucks the fun out of anything. JMTC. Really love the content, Thanks and keep up the great work!!
Yes Ben i have to agree with you about what to pack I tend to over pack with the same things. If I where to be away from any towns I might need all the food but when you are going through a town every day there is no need for all the food. As for clothing if push comes to shuv you can wash things or just buy another at Walmart or some where.
I always look at my gear and divide it into need to have and want to have. Then I try and have gear that has multiple uses.
I also try and cut down on stuff that weighs too much and try and find light weight alternatives.
If I’m away for a longer trip. I wash my clothes and pick up food and water along the way.
Very thorough video, thank you! You should do another after your next trip.
Are those cotton socks? Wool or synthetic for the win, especially in motoboots
Great vid and yes, you can definitely go much lighter weight. You can be comfortable and prepared while being under 30 pounds all in if you are willing to make a few concessions. While it may not seem a detriment, dropping 50 lbs will make your bike safer, less likely to break and most importantly, more fun!! 🍻
Ouch, 80lbs. I cycled across the USA, camping for the greater part... about 22lb of luggage. Now sure, some of the tools and additional clothing, and your media gear, and the bags are a gauge heavier construction, will adds to that, but at 3min in I'm hoping you're going to get that kit under 50lb. And there are other places where excess weight can be shed! Let's see. Good series this, and how did you mate with the busted leg get on?
It’s a three pile sort apparently. Stuff you used, stuff you didn’t use, and the just in case pile.
The just in case pile is where I have trouble as I’m a prepare for the worst and hope for the best type.
Thanks for putting this together! What slippers were those? They looked comfy and nicely packable.
Another great video your Dorkness.
As a seasoned backpaker and motorcycle camper a couple of notes:
Agree with the other on the table and chair but to each their own.
You can never bring too many socks.
Camp towel (I like the cellouse ones now) is better than just "a towel".
Your spare tarp in most weather can double for the poncho/spare blanket thing.
The inflator...do you also carry a tire inflator? If so, in the future find a mini-inflator that can do both.
First aid kit is REALLY big. Pair it down to things you will use in non-emergency situations (10 bandaids, a couple butterflies, antibiotic gel, one small roll of gauze, alcohol wipes). Then learn how to use items you already carry for all the other things. Do add, though expensive, some version of dermabond (usually can only get vet grade)...better than stitches for almost everything if it just has to get you off the mountain. You do not strike me a guy willing to whip a few stitches into you or others' in the field regardless.
What's the shelf life of dermabond, I REALLY coulda used that on my motocamping trip. First day out in the Nez perce forest huge leg gash and had to ride back to town 6 hrs for 17 stitches😬
@@mbrad2669 Officially, looks like two years. My two commercially available bottles of Vetbond are probably due to be replaced at four years old before my next trip. I got spoiled as I had a bunch of the military grade stuff an Aussie medic gave me when working in Iraq and I used the last applicator 8 years after he gave them to me.
I used it last on myself when a truck retread gave me 6 shallow gashes on my calf and I did not want to stop riding...20 minutes cleaning it up and carefully applying...only seeped a tiny bit over the next three days.
Its hard to watch so much stuff come out of your bags. I hike the AT in 2021, 2193.1 miles with about 25lbs counting food and 2L of water. As I am getting into adventure motorcycling I think I might go with a lighter bike since I know I can live without soo much stuff.
In my opinion so much of this depends on how big a bike and the room you have to haul all your stuff. Also how much can be shared with other riders. On my last trip (WABDR) My entire luggage and its contents on my 701 was 42 pounds. normally anything we can share we do like our tools, tubes, first aid and cooking we normally spread out among the riders and share the load. My two cents.
Super helpful. Thanks!
I'm working on some trip planning packing right now. However, I think I'm going to leave all camping and cooking at home. I'll probably end up with more empty luggage space than you have, but still make sure it's abundant.
I just stay within the limits of 65 liter hickers set up.. then if necessary i use my paniers rack for fuel and water.. I do cheat the system tho with some canned food. But i can easily fit everything i need in a lone rider overland bag and then lash my tent and what not down to it..
I'm guessing a problem with taking a big bike is the desire to bring more stuff. My WABDR, I had a smaller bike and took only 30 lbs of luggage. But I really couldn't bring much more with my bike and luggage setup (giant loop great basin 1st gen). I have a rigid leather case that holds 3 cigars. Might work better for you.
no tire levers? or tubes? thats a must for me
Well done 👍👍
Great video, I'd lose the axe, the humidor ( that's huge! ) Everything else seems good. I'm amazed at how little clothing you use.
Really with the Nord or Yammy you didnt go crazy bringing stuff with the those bikes what's another 80lbs.. So different scenario, lets say you were doing the BDR with the new Honda, what ya gonna do?
THIS is a great video idea. Well done.
I have used my Otzi but you do need stuff to cook on it. I also carry charcoal for the otzi.
Instead of DEET , consider picaridin insect repellents. Picaridin does not adversely affect synthetic clothing and would likely not be detrimental to your bike seat. I also find the smell or DEET much more offensive than that of picaridin. Enjoyed this review. Just planning my first
*_Thanks for going through this. Where did you get the humidor?_*
I want to go super light and stay in hotels.....not sure if that is possible depending on the BDR i guess, but I feel like I still need some camping gear in case I get stuck out somewhere.
So how many pounds did you shave off? Glad you're thinking around these lines! 80lbs was wayyy too high.
How much weight do you think you would have saved by not taking the items you said you would not take again?
You do say "it weighs nothing " but a lot of nothings do equal something. Ounces =pounds. When backpacking you cut down thins like a tooth brush handle , or carry travel size toiletries etc. do those ounces don't become pounds.
I would bring more than bear spray , just in case , plus who doesn't like target practice .
Did you have to drop a deuce outside or were you able to get to town to take care of that?
I managed to find enough toilets to avoid having to dig a hole
So what is the plans for the next BDR in the future?
Ounces become pounds, pounds become pain. The best rule to follow is other than emergency equipment, if you aren't using it nearly every day then you don't need to bring it.
If you're a beginner adv rider, or just just want to enjoy the riding experience, without lugging a ton of gear on the bike, I highly recommend ditching the whole idea of camping out, and just rent cabins along the route.
1. You don't have to buy expensive camping gear, before you know if adv trips is your cup of tea.
2. You won't have to put up camp in the rain, when you're tired (which basically sucks)
Is it cheating? Yes, a little, but who cares?🙂
To each their own, man. The important thing is to get out there and ride 😉
I'm curious though, you mentioned you'd rather not use a Norden or t7 , but a smaller bike. You did very well on the Norden, and although I'm sure it would be easier on a smaller lighter bike , how much more comfortable was the Norden ( the seat, the ride ) . Being a big guy like yourself, riding a smaller bike would really beat the shit out of me. Would the trade off be really worth it?
Yeah the ride up there would have been much more uncomfortable on a dual sport but I'd have had three times the confidence on the rough stuff so it's a trade off, I guess. I was definitely a little overwhelmed not knowing what to expect on the rougher sections. Now that I know I might consider taking the big bike again, but I'd definitely take less stuff.
Best camp with a portable electric fence in bear country. Lightest is 2.4 lbs. Small kit for huge peace of mind
ok i give up what does "BDR" stand for?
I would love to see a equipment list with brand and models used. You could even use affiliate links if it’s something you highly recommend.
It's in the description!
@@DorkintheRoad sorry, my bad. The description did not load for me when I watched earlier. Part of the problem with a sketchy network signal.
I’m down to 70 pounds for a 1-5 week adventure but my goal is 50 pounds. I personally don’t take a saw or hatchet, I use a machete instead. Your chair is huge. I used bear spray in Alaska and northern Canada and never felt the need to use it in Washington. Your flask is way too small.
DEET is some powerful stuff and works well, but maybe a little too powerful especially at the higher mixes. Makes my skin feel like I've rubbed on gasoline. I'm trying to stick with Picaridin and Permethrin
2 questions Dork! Humidor? Didn't see a link. First aid kit, what size
amzn.to/3TqrlLL
amzn.to/3AAALLQ
😁
Thanks for the humidor. But the link doesn't specify size of first aid kit. No worries though.
Although i would love to take the axe, too much weight, an no good place to put it. The saw definite for processing, but useless really as there are fire bans where i live right now. So need the propane boil.
Any idea why some of your videos aren't showing up as new? I'm having to go to your channel on my subscription page to look for your videos. They aren't showing up on the list of new videos from my subscription channels.
Well this one isn't out yet so that may have something to do with it 😉
Any plans on doing the Idaho BDR? Its one I plan to try some day but its the other side of the state for me.
I'd love to but it's a pretty long trip. Hopefully someday!
Remember Dude Ford Prefect said you always have to have a towel
Don't panic!
I see a common theme with many "ADV " types, putting single items into bags that could be substituted with a simple and light ziplock bags. Ending up with 15 bags in one.. hmm wha? Most riders, specially in the U.S., could benefit from not bringing along 3000 cheese burgers;)
I always bring too much stuff, and never what I actually end up needing lol
Would good leather work boots work as well as riding boot$ for a BDR?
No. They'll protect you in a slide but off road you need impact protection and support if you come down hard on your foot and land on an awkward angle on a rock or something.
I guess 80 lb is a lot, but considering a combat infantryman is carrying at least that much on their back it doesn’t seem too much.
Awesome! What size folding camp table do you use?
Should be a link in the description
@@DorkintheRoad lots of size options with that link, we'll maybe only 3. Thanks. Teriffic content.
Are you going to do a review of the Husqvarna on this trip?
3000 mile review coming soon
I have a flat repair kit but did not use it, so i dont need it ?
Did I say that? Or did I say maybe I didn't need 3 different ways to cook food?
How’s mike doing w the broken leg?
My problem is I try to cover every possible situation for repairs and backups. It’s a battle.
Which air mattress inflator did you use?
Link in the description
Need to use a 1 L MSR fuel bottle as a flask.
2 pillows, trying to figure that one out?
It's like having one pillow, but there are twice as many.
@@DorkintheRoad I thought you were going to reply that you use one to prop your head up for late-night reading. 🙂
You took too much? You are not alone. We are part of the same club I guess. Lol.
DEET ruined your seat concepts seat🤔😣tell us more, what happened there? 🇭🇲
Bottle was leaking and I didn't realize it. Left it on the seat overnight and it bonded with it.
@@DorkintheRoad bugger, bike has character now i guess. Maybe an upholsterer could recover for you. Always thought DEET was a bit on the corrosive side. Almost ironic you took bear spray and the mozzie threat turned out to be a problem. Still could have been worse i guess.