RIDING TIPS FOR ALL
LEVELS OF RIDER
A commonsense approach and
pre-planning may prevent problems. The following points are posted for
your information and guidance when heading up to Darwin for the Odyssey.
Do not set unrealistic
kilometre targets between stops to refresh and to refuel. Enjoy the ride.
Carry an adequate supply of
water and rehydrate at every stop. Whether
you think you need water or not, DRINK! If you wait until you are thirsty
it may already be too late - heat exhaustion can set in and it’s not nice.
Do not underestimate the
combined effect of tropical heat and humidity. A “Camelback” is desirable
in these conditions, as long as you can operate this device without causing
unsafe riding practices.
Ensure your motorcycle is
mechanically sound at all times. If it needs servicing when you arrive in
If you can't do the return
trip on the same tyre you started with, don't assume you will be able to get
your favourite tyres in Alice Springs or
The long distances involved
in riding in the Outback should not be taken for granted. Vehicles with a
long wheel-base and multiple trays, road-trains, caravans, cattle-trucks and
semi-trailers should all be approached with caution, whilst exercising good
road-sense and safe riding practices. To overtake these long
vehicles, ensure that you can do so in safety and leave plenty of distance to do so without endangering yourself
or others. When being passed by a long vehicle, veer to the left side of
the road giving; yourself a good buffer against the following wind-shear
effect.
Riders should be aware that
at times cattle, kangaroos, camels, dingos and other wildlife may be on the
roadway and as such constant, visual checking should be employed whilst
riding. Kangaroos and Emus are especially abundant along the side of the
roads and riders should be aware that these animals may venture unexpectedly onto
the roadway. Make sure that you keep a safe distance from all animals and
slow down if not sure of an animal’s intentions. Wedge-Tailed eagles and
Kites may also be feeding on the road. When approaching these large birds,
slow down and keep a safe distance from them; they have a slow takeoff and will
almost always veer into your pathway.
Flashing the headlights can be effective in getting them to move off the
road
If your motorcycle’s fuel-tank
does not carry sufficient fuel to carry you between fuel stops, consideration
must be given to including an approved fuel container in your gear to carry you
through to the next stop. It is wise to
carry enough fuel for 500km if at all possible.
This allows for enough fuel for you to make the next stop in a situation
where the next fuel-source may be closed or unable to supply fuel.
Safe riding practices and
mechanically-sound motorcycles prevent poor performance.
