Motorcycles and Dirt.

It all started off with Clintons Off Road Riding School for a "day in the dirt"....... I was hooked. Off I went and spent $800 on gear at MACHINE RACING and then affirmed I would learn to ride. When you are at Clinton's, ask about my second day in the dirt with a certain Yamaha YZF 250 two stroke.....

CANADAIN MOTORCYCLE TRAINGING SERVICES  Or call Clinton at 705.720.1995

My first dirt bike purchase was a 250cc COTA Montessa Trials bike. No seat to speak of. It was a riot, however I could only use it on private property.

So I then went to a Yamaha TTR 250 with a green plate. Forests only and I needed more power.

The Honda XR650L was the next weapon of choice and I was able to buy some 17" rims so that I could convert it to ride on the roads with tires that had a bit more grip.

Then the "I wants" got a hold and I bought a KTM 690. Its fast. The XR was not so fast but pulled like a tractor. Both power delivery systems have their own merrit.

We have ridden the Simcoe County forests a great deal. Found out about RALLY CONNEX and have taken a number of one day and weekend tours with them throughout Ontario.

A highlight in 2008 was the Paris to Dacre Rally organised by Rally Connex.

Nearly 800 km was the plan, to be done in 1 day starting at 4am in the fog and 90% offroad. It was cruel... 10 hours and 550 kms in we were beat.

Our team of 5 got split up and it was over. There were 108 starters and about 12 finishers. Its only run every 2 years. In 2010 I rode support for some privateers. Watch for some updates on the next one in 2012.

If you live in Ontario and ride in the dirt, join OFTR  (Ontaio Federation of Trail Riders). These folks build and mainatin hundereds of km's of exciting and legal off road tails in concert with Government and private organisations. Mini Pine  is a great example of one of their rides. Lots of trees and ruts.

TRAIL BOSS TOURS based in San Diego USA organises trips into BAJA Mexico. We have been down to see them on a number of 5 day trips and a monster, "Ensenada to Cabo" experience. 8 days, 1300 miles, 90% off road, not to mention flat tires & stolen motorcycles BUT Nancy and Chris do it in first class style. You are met at the airport with your gear and thats the last time you touch your bags until they drop you off back at the airport. Food, accomodation, RIDING and the hosts are really impressive.

Huh... The road just ended.

GPS say straight ahead..... 

Are you kidding?

Dont you know there are Bears in there?