Riding a motorcycle in the desert means a thrill and a whole new experience to the rider. Riding a motorcycle through the desert is quite challenging and dangerous. Riding in extreme temperatures in loose sand your preparation, skills, and survival knowledge will help you to have a safe and enjoyable journey. In my preference. I’m going to discuss several steps, which are very important for desert riding but in my opinion, you should only go for desert riding with professional training.
1. Prepare your motorcycle
Preparing a motorcycle for riding in the desert is your first duty. Make sure your motorcycle tires are in good condition and inflated properly. Check your engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant and see if they are in good condition or need to be changed. Check your motorcycle brakes properly. Make sure the battery is not having any trouble charging and is in good condition. Don’t forget to check all the wires and lights. Make sure wires are on point and lights are functioning properly.
2. Do your route plan
One of the most important things is route planning. First research about the place you are going and collect as much information as you can. Then make a route plan very carefully. If you make any mistake in your route plan you may get into serious trouble. Use maps and GPS devices for the perfect route planning and mark your key route point. To know the weather conditions check the weather forecast and be aware of temperature fluctuations and possibilities of sand storms. Fuel station is far away and hard to locate in the desert so point out the location from where you can refill your motorcycle tank. Point out the emergency exit route so that in an emergency you can easily reach the locality or a ranger station.
3. Riding gear
I know it’s extremely hot out there but you have to get covered yourself properly by wearing the appropriate gear. Wear a full-face helmet to protect your face, head, and eyes from sun and sand but in addition, if you wear a face mask it will add an extra layer of protection. You can remove your helmet visor and wear goggles. This technique helps to get the maximum airflow to your head and face. Wear a lightweight and breathable textile jacket, pants, and gloves to properly protect your body from sun and sand. Wear over-the-ankle boots to get better feet and ankle protection. As we deserts are extremely hot in that case my suggestion would be not to wear any deep color gear. Deep colors absorb more heat than light colors. Wearing a light color gear absorbs less heat and helps to keep your body cool.
4. Riding technique
Riding in the desert is one of the most challenging situations for riders. If you don’t follow the proper riding technique there is a possibility of getting stuck in sand. Use your body weight to balance the motorcycle. When you’re running your motorcycle at a higher speed, lean back slightly to keep the front wheel light, otherwise, you may fall off or the wheel will dig into sand. Ride your motorcycle at moderate speed. It reduces the chance of falling off and getting stuck in the sand. Avoid sudden braking and accelerating for smooth operation. Be careful when applying the front brake. Pressing the front brake too hard in loose sand can cause you to fall off. Press the front and rear brakes together for better and safer stopping. Deserts are not just about sand, they also have dunes, holes, and bushes. To successfully navigate through this stand on your foot page and bend your knees slightly will lower your centre of gravity and improve control. Not only that you can focus forward, pick the best line to go on, and avoid obstacles. Navigating for uphill dunes generates enough speed to carry you up and once you are in the air lean forward to keep the front wheel down for smooth landing. Navigating for downhill dunes shift your weight back, keep the bike straight, and press your rear brake slightly to control your descent.
Emergency and safety precautions-
1. Keep hydrated yourself
Keeping yourself hydrated is the main key to survival in the desert. Carry a bunch of water and drink water frequently even if you are not feeling thirsty. Get a hydration pack so that you keep hydrated your body all the time. Don’t forget to pack energy/electrolyte drinks and dry foods.
2. Aware of Heat Exhaustion
If you notice any symptoms like dizziness, tiredness, headaches, rapid heartbeat, High temperature of the body, Charms in the stomach, arms, and legs, excessive sweating, and pale skin without any delay go to a shaded and cool area, remove all clothing from your body, try to remain calm, sip a small amount of water frequently, wipe up the whole body with a wet cloth and call for an emergency as soon as possible.
3. Be Aware of Wildlife
Be careful about desert snakes, scorpions, and other animals moreover, you may fall into unexpected danger.
4. Drive in a group
Never drive alone in the desert. Driving in a group will help you in case of an accident or breakdown.
5. Communication and navigation
Getting lost in the desert is very easy. If you lose your route and communication it will be very dangerous. Use a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon (PLB) to call for an emergency. For navigating through the desert use a GPS locator, physical map, and compass.
6. First aid and tools kit
Carry a first aid kit in case of treating common injuries like burns, cuts, and scrapes. Take a tools kit for general repairing of your motorcycle and don’t forget to pack a tire inflator, spark plug, and drive chain link. In addition, take some rope and a lighter to light a fire.
7. Shelter
Carry a shelter in addition. It will help you in adverse weather conditions or in case you have to stay in the desert at night.
Before riding in the desert make sure you are physically fit enough and you know the right technique for riding a motorcycle in the desert and know the precautions. You have to set your mind in such a way that you have to keep calm in any situation. Don’t leave any leftovers in the desert and try to minimize your impact on the environment.