6 Tips for Riding Through Gnarly Gravel & River Rock - Let Your Adventure Bike Steer Itself

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  • Опубліковано 6 чер 2024
  • Every motorcyclist dreads riding through deep gravel and loose rocks. Bret Tkacs teaches you the best techniques to help you navigate this treacherous, low-traction, uneven terrain. Learn, practice and be prepared, especially if you're traveling to the American southwest, Baja, Mexico and Central America.
    Filming location: goo.gl/maps/mnNxEtqmBXepbhKm8
    Bret Tkacs @ bit.ly/2INkHvk
    Lots more to learn @ MOTOTREK.net/
    Follow MOTOTREK @ / findmototrek
    Buy Stuff We Recommend @ www.amazon.com/shop/mototrek
    MOTOTREK is made by Timothy Tyler @ inventivepictures.com/
    MOTOTREK's music is by Matt Jorgensen @ mattjorgensen.com/
    #AdventureMotorcycle #RoundRocks #HowTo #r1200gs

КОМЕНТАРІ • 357

  • @thomasjones113
    @thomasjones113 9 місяців тому +9

    I'm so grateful for this content. I recently got some health news that means I have less time to acomplish the dreams I've had for a long time. These videos have helped me tap into the skills that I developed some time ago before life got in the way. This content is high quality, well structured, and really engaging. In the absence of oodles of time , watching this series has conquered the base level of anxiety that prevented me from having a go and an awareness of the situtions I need to pay more attention to when I'm out there. It's not a riding course, but man it really helps to know when to focus and the skills transferrable from road bike handling to adventure bikes.
    Live hard fam, be safe and don't wait for the perfect time to follow your dreams. Thanks again to Mototrek for this resource. Super valuable.

    • @Piracanto
      @Piracanto Місяць тому

      Hope you're doing fine, fellow rider!

  • @RollModel724
    @RollModel724 4 роки тому +46

    Ironically, I was watching this video on Saturday for no particular reason. Sunday morning, I am riding my very NON-adventure 1987 Honda Rebel 250 and the GPS took me onto a remote English farm road. It was raining, the road was two small tracks of mud, big rocks/broken brick and unknown puddle depths. This video really helped me get through the two mile trek to my destination.

  • @LookattheBiggerPic
    @LookattheBiggerPic 3 роки тому +18

    ...my 600lb GSA and I are most afraid of this kind of terrain - watching you go thru it is both inspiring and I found myself muttering "how does he expect us mere mortals to do that?" in any case, much thanks for all you do!

  • @jedbarney9295
    @jedbarney9295 5 років тому +52

    This is definitely off topic, but the drum tracks on these videos are F#%$ing tasty! (Great tips also!)

  • @hooty6699
    @hooty6699 5 років тому +71

    "You need to keep in mind you're not actually the one in charge." That realization is a quantum leap in (virtually) no grip riding like loose rocks, sand, accumulated snow, etc. You have to let the bike do it's thing. Trying to boss it around is what will get you in trouble.

    • @XoXRiver
      @XoXRiver 4 роки тому +2

      what if i am downhill on that type of terrain ?

    • @KLP99
      @KLP99 3 роки тому +2

      @@XoXRiver
      If you use the engine as your brakes, and the clutch as your throttle, you might come out alive. You must turn the engine off, too, because if you let the clutch out while the engine is just idling while going down hill in loose rocks or sand, you die. But then, I'd never try it in a bike that weighs more than a couple of hundred pounds. Pick your pathways carefully.

    • @vebez5993
      @vebez5993 3 роки тому +1

      @@KLP99 “turn off your engine”??? Dude what? Just don’t let go of your clutch! Lean back use your rear brake, don’t be afraid of using your throttle. You want to stay loose to some degree but you don’t want your front tire veering too far and washing out ending in a high side. That’s some bad advice

  • @SuperBardley
    @SuperBardley 5 років тому +27

    Wow, so spot on Bret. I know you are the one in the lens, I also know there’s someone behind it, maybe someone handling your sound, and then there’s all those late nights with you editing it all together - it’s all so deceivingly simple for those of us out here in Television Land - so hats off to your WHOLE team! Thanks for sharing what is what I consider to be some of the best YT content I’ve seen.

    • @BretTkacs
      @BretTkacs 5 років тому +13

      I don't get to claim the editing but I know that Tim (Producer/videographer/editor) deserves a massive thumbs up for making me look good.

    • @jamalbashir3326
      @jamalbashir3326 4 роки тому +2

      Ur fan from Kenya absolutely incredible content Bret ,making me better in quantum leaps.

  • @David_Drills
    @David_Drills Рік тому +2

    Bret, you are born to explain things the best way possible! Very well done

  • @patrickperron792
    @patrickperron792 5 років тому +35

    Another great skills video. Thanks Bret !

  • @mrspandex3
    @mrspandex3 5 років тому +14

    As usual, Matt Jorgensen's drums really take your videos to another level.

    • @BretTkacs
      @BretTkacs 5 років тому +3

      He does rock

    • @aussiefarmer8741
      @aussiefarmer8741 5 років тому

      My first visit here, yes I liked the drumming ,being 1 myself. I hate the vids with loud crappy music. I switch off straight away. Well done, good vid.

  • @jonsoderkvist
    @jonsoderkvist 5 років тому +12

    This is common on gravel roads in the forests around where I live. Land owners put similar material to this on the roads then they count on the timber trucks to pack the material for them but it's common that you get there first on the bike on the loose material. I used to hate that kind of surfaces but it has been getting a lot better with practice.

  • @2fastnlight
    @2fastnlight 5 років тому +7

    Good one brett. Nice note about not airing down. Skill and practice carry through

  • @FanOWater
    @FanOWater 5 років тому +1

    More excellent tips! Thanks so much for posting these.

  • @jimpannell2035
    @jimpannell2035 5 років тому +2

    Another really fantastic video, Bret. Super impressed with what you release. Thanks!

  • @CCShad
    @CCShad 5 років тому +5

    Cool video, very helpful. Awesome that you showed a little Versys action! Thx for that. Cheers 🍻

  • @G89A-EU
    @G89A-EU Рік тому

    Much appreciated! Thanks sharing your experiences & advises with all of us ! Your input is invaluable!

  • @tiffany64871
    @tiffany64871 2 місяці тому

    The BEST video ever on this topic. As a new rider I’ve been told I just lack confidence. No, I lacked KNOWLEDGE, until this video. Knowledge leads to confidence. 🎉

  • @troyanthonymorris
    @troyanthonymorris 5 років тому +4

    Every time I watch your videos, I learn something new everytime that then improves my riding... Thank you Brett.

  • @oneblackdogrides
    @oneblackdogrides 5 років тому +3

    Couldn't do that in my dreams... Thanks again for the lesson & motivation

  • @FTAAdventures
    @FTAAdventures 5 років тому +2

    Thanks Bret, great video as always. I think I'll go practice this technique this weekend. Ride safe!

  • @EmmanuelTychon
    @EmmanuelTychon 3 роки тому

    Amazing skills and tips - thank you. Now on to practice!

  • @antoniocordeiro2528
    @antoniocordeiro2528 5 років тому +2

    Thank you, we learned a lot from your practices.

  • @colonelsly
    @colonelsly 5 років тому +4

    was missing your videos, glad your back

  • @submissionstories
    @submissionstories 4 роки тому

    Your 'How To' playlist is exceptional, thanks very much for the content!

  • @iangray7410
    @iangray7410 4 роки тому

    Great lesson well taught. My riding days are past but I am sharing this with the younger members of my former riding community. Thanks !

  • @ianwestlake7736
    @ianwestlake7736 5 років тому +1

    Thanks Bret, love your videos. Reminds me off having to switch my weight back on my snowboard through the woods back in the day, and not worrying about correcting every stroke when out paddling! Cheers, Ian

  • @peterwells5424
    @peterwells5424 5 років тому +2

    Very helpful for me! I really look forward to your videos. Thanks Bret.

  • @KARMAkazeMoto
    @KARMAkazeMoto 5 років тому +3

    Once again, I will never forget a single moment of instruction from this video. I'll put put it all to use this summer. Bravo!

  • @sjsherwin
    @sjsherwin 5 років тому +2

    Thanks a bunch for the video! This will help a ton

  • @Merecocross
    @Merecocross 5 років тому +16

    Gotta love them drums

  • @ecalzo
    @ecalzo 3 роки тому +2

    Still watching your video Bret Tkacs after two years and after you're on your own channel..means that you're really good at it .. congrats

  • @maxmmpower
    @maxmmpower 5 років тому +2

    rock on bret, and you have mad skills

  • @clivekirkman1
    @clivekirkman1 4 роки тому +2

    Yay 17" rims and skill will get me through, ahhhh need to practice the skill bit as a bit rusty not been off road for 15 years!! wish me luck gona practice this week on a xt660x with 50/50 street tyres, love your videos Bret a true inspiration.

  • @MartinFarrelly2000
    @MartinFarrelly2000 5 років тому +1

    Another great video. Thanks Brett.

  • @carolinap4150
    @carolinap4150 5 років тому +2

    Thank you Bret - !! a great teacher, I would love to take some courses with you.

  • @JorgeBravoPratscher
    @JorgeBravoPratscher 5 років тому +2

    Great tips! they'd have come handy last year when i went uphill on loose rocks and gravel. Thanks I think I've got a better idea of what I need to do now. Greetings from Spain.

  • @lolAtTheStupid
    @lolAtTheStupid Рік тому +1

    Thank you for these videos!! I've rewatched a few already. I bought a Tenere 700 this year, and already humbled myself with some slick mud and a tree. Oof. I come from 10 years of street riding, touring, across NZ and North America, and a lot of those years commuting.
    I've also gotten a LOT of bad advice from very good, experienced street riders. (myself was one of them)
    5 or 6 times have you casually explained something that was explained to my wrong in person. Can't wait to binge all these videos.

  • @mattdelcomyn8012
    @mattdelcomyn8012 4 роки тому +1

    Great stuff! I was surprised to hear your advice about tire pressure and riser bars. But I liked the points you made in defense of your opinions. Thanks Brett!

  • @pathfinder7549
    @pathfinder7549 4 роки тому +1

    very good video, thanks :), I really appreciate all the detailed info you give, it is a lot of logic and sense in it and I agree 100% with you.

  • @3niknicholson
    @3niknicholson 5 років тому

    Great stuff! Thanks! I've had my motorbike licence since 1978 and I'm only just starting to really learn bike control.Today was my first day on riverbed sand and gravel, inspired by watching this vid. I feel like I learned a lot. Thanks again. I'm looking to overcome gravelly steep downhill fear, that's next.

  • @petertspock
    @petertspock 5 років тому +2

    Great videos, very helpful.

  • @kikofranzful
    @kikofranzful 4 роки тому +3

    You earned a subscrber! im not an adv biker but go through this type of rocks going to work with my street bike😊 helpful tip!

  • @COOLCABMAN
    @COOLCABMAN 5 років тому +1

    AMAZING VIDEO.. THANK YOU BRET

  • @tomgrenier7677
    @tomgrenier7677 10 місяців тому

    Bravo. Great instruction!!🎉

  • @Azzurro650
    @Azzurro650 2 роки тому

    Great tips, awesome footage!

  • @robpinter5431
    @robpinter5431 5 років тому +2

    Fantastic riding ability....it's not all about speed, it's about skills and confidence. your videos show real life tracks and situations in which adventure riders may come across, skills and confidence enables us riders to travel where we need to. I used the weightless rider technique on my Triumph XCA and hold the grips with only a thumb and a finger up a steep muddy track great tip indeed.

  • @davvidc
    @davvidc 5 років тому +2

    Awesome content as usual ! 🙌🙌

  • @calin7017
    @calin7017 5 років тому +2

    I like the way you handle that Panzer over everything and the way you explain, straight and simple. Thanks.

  • @izismael5075
    @izismael5075 3 роки тому

    Thank you so much for the education!

  • @kevindblew6822
    @kevindblew6822 5 років тому +16

    Truly helpful information! I can't envision long patches of river bottom in my near future but there a lots of gravel roads all over northeastern Missouri where I live. I really want to avoid dumping my bike, as much for preserving my newer ride as for preserving this antiquated rider.

    • @Zoofactory
      @Zoofactory 4 роки тому

      Kevin D Blew INDEED. Good to know I’m not the only one. My first ADV is a 2011 KLR owned by a Kaw mechanic.. Bike has never been laid down and is fully loaded. I cringe knowing the day is coming where I’ll hold the honor of dumping it... I guess the flip side is being willing to challenge myself. Not sure the previous owner did that in 9 years.. Seems like you’d have to dump it if you were riding to your limit and pushing that limit. 👍. Good Luck Kevin

  • @johncella4457
    @johncella4457 4 роки тому +1

    Excellent riding lesson. Outstanding drum music.

  • @pizabrothers2398
    @pizabrothers2398 5 років тому +2

    Very good video man! I have a bigtrail and I'm improving my skills on dirty roads!

  • @diathimrecn
    @diathimrecn 4 роки тому

    I started riding off road few days ago, and this video is really helpful for me

  • @gudgengrebe
    @gudgengrebe 8 місяців тому

    Thanks for this very well made instructional. I appreciate your clear instructions and advice. When next I have the chance to ride on loose gravel or rocks like that, I feel confident that I’m going to be doing the right things after watching your video. Good to know, otherwise it’s just guess work on my part. I love being given clear instructions like this because I’m impatient to master these skills. I feel once I know what I’m supposed to be doing I can concentrate on getting the feel of the bike. I’ve waffled on too long but I feel you’re a good teacher and I wanted to let you know that these videos are appreciated. I’m writing this from the UK btw. You’re famous internationally now! 😀

  • @miguelangelsenillosa8081
    @miguelangelsenillosa8081 3 роки тому

    Como siempre sos muy claro y trasmitis la idea muy bien

  • @mariesonoma
    @mariesonoma 9 місяців тому

    Great vid, super helpful 💪

  • @waldo_s
    @waldo_s 5 років тому +1

    Fantastic, as usual! 🎉🎉🎉👊

  • @Brunoxtr
    @Brunoxtr 4 роки тому +1

    Excelent video. Very well explained

  • @Jamilsiddique
    @Jamilsiddique 5 років тому +1

    Thank you that was very insightful

  • @miguellara511
    @miguellara511 Рік тому

    Again thanks for those important tips...
    greetings
    from La Paz - Bolivia

  • @niltontravaglini8578
    @niltontravaglini8578 2 роки тому

    Você é o Cara. Parabéns!!!

  • @dandersonjr
    @dandersonjr 5 років тому +4

    Great lesson Bret. I'm commenting on this video just because I like to comment but I really have nothing to add, You've covered it very well and I hate when you do that. Thanks alot.

  • @diamondmidnightgardener
    @diamondmidnightgardener 5 років тому +2

    Awesome sound track

  • @chaitanya5197
    @chaitanya5197 3 роки тому

    Thank you very much guys for making such informative videos.I don't have any off roading schools near me.I am going to learn from your videos.

  • @tshansen
    @tshansen 5 років тому +8

    I look at myself as a relatively skilled driver. But I take myself to watch the movies over and over again. You inspire further training, exploring new areas, and really take the adventure segment to a whole new level for us happy amateurs. Keep up with this, it is absolutely magical to watch. Thank you

  • @migueltrujillo5932
    @migueltrujillo5932 5 років тому +2

    Nice piece of drumming there at the end. Nice video with a lot of good tips.

    • @MOTOTREK
      @MOTOTREK  5 років тому

      Thanks. Matt Jorgensen makes cool music.

  • @VipinMishraProject
    @VipinMishraProject 5 років тому +1

    Another great video with valuable tips. Thank you! :-)

  • @olegyd
    @olegyd 5 років тому +2

    As, usually, perfect lesson!!!

  • @Adeel.sheikh84
    @Adeel.sheikh84 9 місяців тому

    Very well explained,

  • @svinatraktore
    @svinatraktore 5 років тому +2

    Thanks! Great video!

  • @Robnord1
    @Robnord1 5 років тому +1

    Thanks for the tips Bret! I've dropped my 1200RT twice in deep gravel, both times with friends/family looking on. I'll take myself out of my comfort zone and practice some of your tips since even on a road touring machine...gravel happens.

  • @riveraluciano
    @riveraluciano 5 років тому +2

    We take deep sand trails on small canyons which act in a similar way to this terrain. Usually (since we ride small displacement bikes) we just go 3/4 throttle in 1st or 2nd and push through. It is helluva fun once you remember that you're not so much in control as you think and apply little pressure on the handlebars.

  • @ralfwieseler2554
    @ralfwieseler2554 5 років тому +3

    i love your Videos ! thanks for your great work ! keep going.. there are thousends of Drivers out there to learn your amazigng skills like i did !

  • @MarcoFrantz
    @MarcoFrantz 3 роки тому

    Great tips. tks

  • @johnsandlin7474
    @johnsandlin7474 4 роки тому +3

    You make it look so easy. Riding on those surfaces is tough on the head. Exhausting.

  • @kingfisher111
    @kingfisher111 5 років тому +1

    Most useful Channel 👍🏼

  • @deadfishparty
    @deadfishparty 5 років тому +2

    Would love to see more tips featuring the versys. Really shows how the rider has more impact than the bike. Cheers.

  • @PauloEllery
    @PauloEllery 4 роки тому

    Man, you're a monster!!!!! Maybe next life I can ride like that!! Awesome channel, it inspires me to go on a off road ride, totaly out of my comfort zone. Thanks for being there.

  • @TerryManitoba
    @TerryManitoba 4 роки тому +1

    Directional Suggestion... Great Statement

  • @TheSouper07
    @TheSouper07 5 років тому +77

    I'm just here for the drums.

    • @debroyprasenjit
      @debroyprasenjit 4 роки тому +1

      Me too :)

    • @zolle76
      @zolle76 4 роки тому +3

      not quite my tempo.

    • @ruandre5619
      @ruandre5619 3 роки тому

      @@zolle76 lol

    • @tad3549
      @tad3549 3 роки тому

      Yeah they get pretty old after a few of those videos...

  • @vladalexandru5861
    @vladalexandru5861 3 роки тому

    Bret dude, I think you are the only one that spoke the truth. Skill will get you through terrain like this. Most say that you need a super specialised offroad vehicle. Btw very good explanation and really informative and helpful. Thanks mate

  • @norsefalconer
    @norsefalconer 5 років тому +1

    Always great stuff here! I recommend this channel every chance I get. Thanks for your hard work and generosity with your knowledge Brett.

  • @froosifroosii2383
    @froosifroosii2383 5 років тому +3

    Thumbs up very nice Tips
    Thanks for sharing
    Peace

  • @laprepper
    @laprepper 10 місяців тому

    Great tip about follow the bike

  • @kislyjdozhdik
    @kislyjdozhdik 5 років тому +3

    The music as always great :)

  • @achappstube1
    @achappstube1 5 років тому +2

    Great tips. Thanks!
    Mitas E07's?...love those tires!
    I run the E07+'s on my GS rallye...love those tires!

    • @bobz1736
      @bobz1736 5 років тому

      +1 on my Triumph Tiger 😀

  • @lamina666
    @lamina666 4 роки тому +1

    Coming off a cruiser and onto an adventure bike, these videos are key.

    • @MOTOTREK
      @MOTOTREK  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks for the sub, Mike!

  • @nickcalnephone
    @nickcalnephone 5 років тому +1

    Cracking stuff as ever.

  • @oscardelgadoluna9309
    @oscardelgadoluna9309 5 років тому +2

    Fantastic 💪

  • @marshallfischer3667
    @marshallfischer3667 4 роки тому +1

    I watch this video several months ago and while on a 400 mile loop ride I ended up in this very element by Surprise. Front wheels started swinging wildly from side to side and I remembered your teaching did what you said road 200 more yards and I didn't crash, I would not have made it without your teaching. Thanks.

    • @BretTkacs
      @BretTkacs 4 роки тому

      That makes me happy... And congratulations

  • @ScratchBabble
    @ScratchBabble 5 років тому +2

    Amazing

  • @dahveed284
    @dahveed284 5 років тому +2

    Loose gravel like this river bed is the work of the devil! I have a hate/hate relationship with this stuff. And it's everywhere. Forest, desert, and everywhere in between. Thanks for the lesson.

  • @wsebastiaanselders7510
    @wsebastiaanselders7510 4 роки тому +1

    The drums make me think of "Take Five" by the Dave Brubeck Quartet"....everytime. Love the videos - thank you for putting in the time an energy into making such high quality content!

    • @MOTOTREK
      @MOTOTREK  4 роки тому

      Thanks for the feedback, WSS. Matt Jorgensen is a talented drummer.

  • @AdventureGlide
    @AdventureGlide 2 роки тому +1

    Great Video. This is my second favorite channel on UA-cam next to my own, LOL. This isn't where I choose to go play and have fun, hahaha. Big River Rock is the worst. Thanks for the Vid.

  • @BikerBijilal
    @BikerBijilal 5 років тому +1

    Thanks Bret 👍👍👍👍

  • @benstabile8493
    @benstabile8493 5 років тому +1

    You, sir, are truly a magician!

  • @jduplease2002
    @jduplease2002 2 роки тому

    awsome video, I like how you put the filming location. nowhere near me but still cool

  • @paulvanhout9695
    @paulvanhout9695 5 років тому +2

    Looks like Sandhill at Tahuya. Good location for training rides. And as usual great advice and demonstration of technique.

    • @BretTkacs
      @BretTkacs 5 років тому +2

      47.474869,-122.876050

  • @hardworkingamerican8847
    @hardworkingamerican8847 4 роки тому +1

    Like how you changed panniers and luggage for different clips , haha . All joking aside what you're saying makes sense and I have used similar techniques when mountain biking mainly easing up on the bars . Mountain bikes are way lighter and react differently than 400lb and up adventure bikes but I think you should've went over to the trees and hacked some branches out to "stick" under that hopelessly stuck front tire , lol .
    Love this channel . Great advice to help shorten the learning curve for newer riders like moi . Thanks .

  • @Arachnoid_of_the_underverse
    @Arachnoid_of_the_underverse 5 років тому +2

    Nice video full of useful information Bret. So I have a question what is different in this technique from riding in Sand?

  • @streetmachine8211
    @streetmachine8211 2 роки тому

    Good tips!