How to pack an adventure bike

Are you overloading your bike and ruining it's handling? In this video I'll break down the basic handling elements of a motorcycle and how you should pack weight to the bike to optimise it's performance.
For this feature we're using the standard 2022 Yamaha Tenere 700, which represents the modern mid-size adventure motorcycle.
Cardo Helmet comms, use discount code - Motology - cardosystems.rfrl.co/d78pp
Join this channel to get access to perks:
/ @motologyfilms
Subscribe to Motology Films on KZbin: / ariemann1
Visit our website: motologyfilms.com/
Purchase Our Feature Films here: gumroad.com/ariemann1
Follow us on Social Media
Instagram - / motology_films
Facebook - / motologyar

[@Driftuner]

Ive been motocrossing and riding adv bikes for the past 20+ years and personally ive done both sides of the coin. The thing is, the style of packing you are doing in the video is the best for ppl that will be going off road and that kind of adventure. But, specially here in europe, there are a lot of riders that do more of a cross country, town-to-town type of riding where they will be 99% of the time on highways. Thats the type of traveler that will use the aluminium paniers for multiple reasons. The main reason being able to park your bike in Madrid, Paris ir Rome and not having your soft-attached soft-luggage stolen on the first night. The key is to know what type of luggage to use in what situation. Dont go parking in madrid with your soft bags attached to your bike...as a matter of fact, dont go parking in madrid at all...

[@kyferez1]

Then an Adventure bike isn't what those people need; they need a sport touring like the Concours 14 with enduro tires for the times they will be offroad; or learn to ride the offroad on street tires. I've ridden plenty of dirt roads on my C14 in sport tires.

[@Driftuner]

@@kyferez1 what they buy is their problem. Their money, their choice. And btw, at no point whatsoever did i ever say anything about the type of bike in question. I was talking about the luggage system, period.

[@kyferez1]

​@@Driftunercontext matters. You were talking specifically about your adv riding and others and this video was specifically about adv riding. So your reply seems more like saving face than anything.

[@Driftuner]

@@kyferez1 no, the problem is you being a typical bike-snob thinking you can tell people what they should and shouldnt buy with their own money, no context issues here buddy, the main subject is and was always the luggage system. And by the way, there are ppl out there (like me) that do both. I ride cross-europe on my T7 World Raid with aluminium panniers, but then when i go to places like the deserts in north africa or the woods in romania i take my soft luggage. Following your rules i am not allowed to do that, i need to buy a sport touring bike just to not hurt you ego. Get a clue kid...

[@kyferez1]

@@Driftuner I don't care what they buy or do, I said need, not must buy, there's a clear distinction there. The point of this video was to learn to ride properly and to travel without all the gaudy weight that does nothing but attempt to show off bling. Not the luggage system alone, but the stupidity of carrying way too much OFF ROAD, not ONROAD like you were talking about TOTALLY missing the point of the video. Sorry you miss my points too. Clearly there's a comprehension issue between us in this discussion and projection issues. Most of the time, whenever someone accuses another person of being something, they are simply projecting, i.e.: "Bike snob", trying to derail the real subject of carrying too much offroad, "ego issues", etc.

[@sierrasurvivaladventures]

Awesome. I'm a survival instructor, and you are so right on lightweight camping. I have just been watching BDR riders in America, its ridiculous how much gear they have on their bikes. 4 riders to lift one bike. Unbelievable. I hope millions see this video. Thanks. Carl

[@RozalynVeersma]

Perfect pack for 2-3 days on the remote trails but I spent 450 days on the trails hence I carried more ‘stuff’! 🤦🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️😂 You’re 100% correct about learning how your bike rides & handles with & without the luggage. It’s a different animal and completely different skill set. I had to carry 30kgs of luggage but it gave me the freedom to go to the remote magical places off the beaten trails on my CRF250L with a 725km fuel range, 10 days supply of water, food, essential tools & supplies plus some creature comforts. Yes, my bike was like a caravan but I didn’t ride it like a Dakar racer. I rode it like a curious explorer and when I pulled up camp in a remote spot, I’d offload my gear and then explore the remote area like a Dakar rider! 🤞😂🏍💨 It’s a freedom like no other. The trick is to go on adventure often and you’ll eventually work out which items are essential, which items have multiple uses, which items you can upgrade to the latest lightest technology to replace your older heavier stuff and which items you’ll sacrifice the bikes handling for a little bit of luxury. You also work out what mods you’ll need to do to your bike to lighten the bike itself (replace 5kg exhaust for a 1kg performance exhaust, light weight soft panniers, etc) and to set up your suspension to allow for the extra load. Its a science and the more you ride, the more you’ll work out what works best for the places you want to ride in. If you’re on a remote trail in Tasmania, you can guarantee there’ll be a town with supplies 100kms down the track but if you’re in far north WA or QLD, it could be days without fuel, water or supplies. Experience is critical to a great & safe adventure…so ride often! It’s always an adventure…carry on! 😁👍🏁🏍💨⛺️

[@RVMTube]

@@felipemoura_ Yep, if you lodge and never camp (which is expensive)... so much less gear! If you have road assistance and don't take tools to fix your bike... so much less gear.

[@zzxx33mh]

Camp to Ride vs Ride to Camp..

[@stiingya]

THIS is a VERY good point! There is more then one way to go about adventure riding! I very much appreciate the times I've set up a remote camp OR just paid for camping and felt "secure enough" leaving everything set up and then go ride sections!! All good as long as people are having fund with how they are adventuring...

[@stiingya]

Yea, one of his video's they had no tire levers between 2 riders. No way to fill a tire, no spare tube. They were able to find someone to translate for them and found a guy that was able to beat a front rim back into shape so the tubeless tire would hold air. But crazy they did that kind of traveling and were not prepared for the basics of a flat tire...

[@DK-mo8jw]

Hi Roz you forgot to mention your tactic of lightening your load which involves dropping stuff along the road (like POD knee braces) as you ride 😅👍

[@armourbl]

Switched my load out to soft luggage and lightweight backpacking, minimalist gear. Made an enormous difference. Then started riding the big 990 like a small dirt bike, standing, just like you described. He speaks the truth.

[@defylifeadventure]

Some great points as always. IMO it all depends what the person is doing. A pure riding tour (e.g. a two week trip to Morocco, some TET or whatever), or a more multifaceted tour especially if the trip includes hot and cold climates (+39c/-10c), stays in big cities (visiting cocktail bars, restaurants etc).. Long stays in nature, hiking etc... (for example 6 month in South America). One shouldn't confuse adventure touring with enduro riding and rallying as people seem to do on some forums. The joke on ADV rider now is it's not adventure touring unless you jump a log ;)

[@mbrad5966]

You are Missing the main point...if you have over 20kgs of crap strapped to your bike, you are overpacked, limiting the fun of riding needlessly and making the ride more dangerous.. 6 days or 6 months...same pack out

[@aussiehardwood6196]

@@mbrad5966 you are correct. I learnt this years ago from army training which I implemented when hiking. Instead of carrying an 80lt backpack filled with a 2 man tent, sleeping bag cooking utensils blah blah blah...I wore military webbing with just a few small pouched, a water bottle, a hoochi (like a small tarp with paracord you set up between 2 trees as a shelter. A very compact rain coat rolled up taking up 1/2 an ammo pouch. Basically I had everything I 'needed' & NOTHING else. People would ask me...."wear is your gear"?...lol. I had NO big heavy backpack, everything I needed around my waist supported by webbing. After a few good hours of serious hiking through mountains, I was like 10X better off than all the folks with huge heavy packs filled with 'comforts'. They aren't comforts after a 10/20/40km, they are liabilities. So I get the concept of this video, it makes a lot of sense to me.

[@kallehagstrom-adventuresincl]

Good as always! I have been looking for a bigger tail bag the last couple of days. After watching these I realize I don’t need it. 😂

[@atlas8rides]

@@aussiehardwood6196 that sounds impressive. Any chance you have a video of your setup?

[@defylifeadventure]

@@mbrad5966 I never said anything about weight, so not missing anything. Just talking about adv touring in general, and how on different tours you need different things. For example in colder climates your down sleeping bag and matt will be much bulkier, than those taken for a warm climate tour. Same for the activities you might do whilst on tour. Zero activities requires zero extra gear. Planning a lot of hiking, might require a set of hiking boots and maybe a trekking pole. As I said it all depends on what type of tour it is. ADV riding isn't just jumping logs, and riding dunes. Slightly different subject, but didn't one of the KTM rallies that Adam shot have a couple complete it 2-up.

[@mattsmith7503]

I couldn't agree more. I was a backpacker before an adventure bike rider so I had already learned the value of packing light as possible. I appreciate the tips about keeping the weight low and forward.

[@richgran]

I'm coming from that same pack light backpacker perspective. It's a philosophy I learned over many trail miles and many years of hiking, and it applies here too. But, then there are those times when I splurge for a few luxury items. Nothing like the pictures he threaded in the video... they speak volumes.

[@stefanjepp6612]

​@@richgran same as me, but I also have experience riding a bike with light weight luggage.

[@muddysidedown]

🙌🏼 Mate! Thank you so much! Spot on! I've only been an adventure rider for two years after a lifetime of cruisers. I've only used soft luggage and each time I attempt to reduce the weight. I'm at the point now where I imagine myself hiking with the gear and the simplicity of removal because let's all be real, sometimes you HAVE to remove and walk gear over difficult terrain (Fast flowing river).😂 right?! It's not if I might have to carry my gear, it's WHEN I carry my gear traversing a wicked terrain that I'm unable to ride a loaded bike... And I might be new, but as a solo rider going off into unknown territory and down some trails beyond my comfort, I praise the forgiveness of soft light luggage! Remember, it's an adventure, not a convoy cookout. Less is more. If you have to bring all the fancy glamping stuff, perhaps a bike is the wrong choice. But that is your judgment. Be safe, go light, have fun on two wheels. 😊

[@SleepyBoBos]

I feel that doubling weight quadruples your problems!

[@danmoore6195]

This is really good information! I was a beginner ADV rider at 61 (all street riding previous). Even with no experience, I concentrated on weight reduction. A lightly modified XR650L and less than 50lbs of gear, lets me go anywhere I want (my riding skill being the limiting factor).

[@twobikesandadrone]

Very similar case with me! I was debating between the 80liter and 40liter soft bags out there, and truly the 40liter setups are more than enough for what little overnight or weekend trips I'll be doing.

[@Bavenbushcraft]

As a mountain climber with a bad back, I've learned to pack super light. Did three months in NZ, wild camping mostly with a 25lb back pack. I carry the same philosophy to my bike. Clothes, sleeping bag and roll mat up high in the top box that came with the bike. Food tools in the small nearside soft luggage. Tent and boots and first aid kit in the other side. Awesome video.

[@markbarnes9704]

I went from a adventure 4x4 truck back to a tenere xt660z, the crap I had in that truck was unbelievable, now on the bike it's a light weight 2 man tent, sleeping bag and mattress, simple cooking gear. I buy the boil in the bag meals and normally find somewhere to have breakfast but allways have a few tea bags and army ration powder milk. Changed the twin exhaust for a single and used the empty side for tools, allway weigh my soft bags before a trip to equal the weight. Mine normally weigh about 6kgs each side, wash clothes as needed no need to take your complete wardrobe

[@piyushjoshi5086]

A link to the luggage bag would've been great. I can't find anything similar on the internet. Also I totally agree with having minimal luggage on yourself.

[@LasseCLand]

have you found anything?

[@sebastiancox1317]

Giant Loop if you have the BMW and grange taste... Rigg Gear soft panniers work alright on enduro style bikes.. and if your on the ol bush pig a 4wd inner tube cut in half, tie off one end, packed, sling over the back of the seat and tie of the other end can work out ok for a short term, late notice ride if your in a bind..

[@thatwolffe3802]

It's the Giant Loop Coyote, it took me a while to find it too, but the cost is unobtainable so I'm stuck with my kriega luggage for a while

[@AT2021Rocker]

Great info. As someone living in a country where temperatures can swing a lot , more gear is absolutely required. But centralization and packing low is totally valid.

[@Szlejer]

I have traveled to 55 countries in the last 30 or so years and still I take less and less crap. Fort the last 3 week trip, my complete luggage was less than 15kg.

[@Joshua-gm9hm]

Hi Adam, GREAT JOB! A refresh course in basics is always needed.

[@1608aaditya]

Hello Adam, This is all you need to travel on a motorcycle, I am so happy that your making it easy for people to understand the true fun of travelling on a motorcycle.👏

[@pjakszentis]

You are so right about excess weight and luggage. I like to see you use the GL Coyote soft baggage, too. On the second day of my Mexico DF to Panama round-trip my tent (as back-up) bag came to close to the exhaust and became plastic waste. So less back-up, less weight. At least in Europe and many other parts of the world there is always some kind of accomodation, just dare to ask, at the fuel station, the road side restaurant, etc. ... For Mexico and Central America a Canadian rider active on advrider, Sjoerd Bakker, shared his experience in "Economic Hotels of Mexico & Central America". Absolutly priceless and highly recommended. This year I switched the 690 for an 890 for travelling, continue to use the Coyote, but still try to minimize baggage. Still there is always unused gear at the end of the trip.

[@lmiles169]

Love your attitude! I feel the same! I learned the hard way but I learned!! I did 2 small(2-3) day trips to test. Figured out what I truly needed and what was just extra weight! When I finally spent 6 weeks on the bike I had it figured out!

[@drecigliola7422]

I couldn't agree more. I started out wanting to pack my bike as if I was going camping with my truck. Lots of stuff that I didn't need and loss of confidence in riding because it became that much harder with all the weight. Getting to have the most minimalist setup is a constant project that requires a little investment, as light and compact stuff costs more, and lots of trips to know what works and what doesn't work for you. Great points!

[@armored-clown]

Some very valid points, and great explanation of a particular style of adventure riding. Minimalist adventure rider going for the ride as top priority and only stopping to eat and sleep. But of course it does depend on what style you’re going for many many people ride to camp and don’t camp to ride like you do. However, you have greatly inspired me to cut down a lot of my weight and cut out luxury things if they don’t bring that much value. Great video man

[@gerokron3412]

Adam, I found your channel - and some others - some month ago. Having done road travelling a lot, I´m now dead keen on this new world of off-road-touring. An old R80 g/s sits now in my garage and I´m gonna prepare her just according to what you say in your videos. And then I´m gonna look for bad weather and wild terrain and I´m gonna have a ton of fun on it! Thx for infecting me with that virus 😁

[@mccabemichael]

Thanks for bringing this up! Leave all the unnecessary crap at home and ride the bike! I always try to keep things trim and light when traveling, but every time I still find that I bring too much. It super easy to get sucked into the trap of bringing every gadget, and companies are brilliant at making you feel like you gotta buy a ton of stuff just to camp off your motorcycle. Keep it simple.

[@gtan431]

Just brilliant mate...probably the best no nonsense vid on adventure riding I've seen. Well done old chap.

[@louispogoreltz3490]

Probably the best, most informative, quick, easy explanation of helping yourself, help yourself, that someone other than me has given I’ve seen. I think this way and have utilized this for many years. I’m only just beginning to entertain the notion of ADV riding. I’ve been doing this for touring for years. I’m OCD and (over) think this way. When you explain it to someone else, they first look at you as if you’re OCD and over thinking things, then they praise you and hail everyone they can find to hear your ramblings. Awesome video. I’ve found another wacko who thinks like me!

[@JovanMladenovic]

Great advices man, to the point! 👏👏 One thing I'd add is a first aid kit, that should be in there somewhere at all times... and that's that! 👌

[@PeterR0035]

99% of first aid kits are never used. 😼 90% of riders don't know HOW to use the kit. 😆Just follow a first aid course and get a small bottle of disinfectant and a few small band aids on the bike.

[@jonasbaine3538]

its likely in his bookbag

[@lukeadv]

@@PeterR0035 Neither are 99% of helmets...

[@PeterR0035]

@@lukeadv haha, true. But you would look very silly if you put on your helmet backward. My point is, that most people don't know how to use an extensive first aid kit.

[@lukeadv]

@@PeterR0035 you’re right of course, I agree. Just playing devils advocate :-) I was riding in India with a few other people once and one of them was a doctor. She came off her bike and cut a knee open. She pulled out her first aid kit and first thing she did was inject the wound with local anaesthetic, give it a thorough cleaning and then stitch it up and put a dressing on it. very impressive.

[@danmihai3002]

one of the best and most correct bikepacking videos on youtube, thanks man... got an africa twin 2018 a year ago and i absolutely love it... but after a trip to greece with full metal boxes, i just sold them all and now I just use soft bags, WAAAY better.

[@randymercado8466]

Awesome! I am a newbie on motocamping and gradually completing my stuff. Watching your video confirmed that my idea getting a saddle bag than those bulky boxes is the way to go. Learned a good tips on how to pack my things. Thanks a lot!

[@effervescentrelief]

Been riding for decades, but your description of a bike being similar to an arrow was spot on and frankly something I hadn't given much thought to. Good stuff!

[@kawabungah20]

Thanks for the great advice! Really good point about riding the"naked" machine first to get familiar with just how the bike should handle (as the engineers intended). I skip the tent and use only a plastic tube if rain threatens. Skip the cushion pad and scrape a small depression in the ground for your hip bone. Skip the sleeping bag and use a 0.5 mil space blanket instead. It really takes experience with one's machine to learn what sparse toolset to get by on.... Too bad it's more than just a Swiss army knife, but that's life. Thanks so much!

[@rickkern5785]

This is so relevant in Mountain bike touring as well. The bicycle racers on the Continental Divide race can teach the adventure motorcycle riders a lot. Design a fairing on the front to hold your tools to counterbalance the weight on the back. Total gear weight around 10 pounds + food and water.

[@matiasiudica3605]

Damn, I really enjoy your videos. Unlike other channels your content makes me want to get out at once and try this pro-tips you give in simple words, while others make you feel dizzy and insecure. Greetings from Argentina.

[@KK-bm3kh]

Your videos have helped me a lot and inspired me to ride and ride differently again. Thanks a lot for your work. May you and your family be well.

[@scottjones9670]

Great advice, thanks for sharing your insights. Being honest with yourself is probably the hardest part.

[@JRidesTheWorld]

Thanks Adam for sharing, Completely agree with you on packing light to fully enjoy the ride! Would be awesome to see how you pack your camera gear and also film your adventures!

[@OliReu]

brilliant, enjoying the style of this series from the basics and setup onto route planning and then the adventure itself.

[@georgekellie6882]

Mate, I couldn't agree more. I do think dirt bikes are for riding in the dirt. Great channel, love your work.

[@francolandman]

Great video! 100% agree on your tips in this video. One thing I think you should make clear is that your setup is good for a weekend worrior. I travel with a top box and panniers plus a dry bag between myself and the top box. I go on 3 month trips with my laptop to continue working. I still travel offroad, obviously not pulling your crazy moves but still having the time of my life when I ride.

[@sepposuominen9266]

Great video as usually. Noticed these same issues after few years of adventure riding. Now I have taken lightening to exteme and been riding with KTM 500 exc-f last three seasons. After two Tiger 800s it has been pure pleasure, even though some of my friends doesn’t understand me at all😊But it is really nice, when you can pick up your own bike even after long day and perhaps even when it is upside down at some ditch😅

[@whywhatwhenwherewow]

In answer to your question about what's on somebody's heavy-laden bike, it depends on expected temps. Summer packing is pretty light, but for colder weather you need more clothing layers, my cold weather sleeping bag is very a bulky synthetic (bc of cost mainly, I got it for quite cheap on REI outlet and a packable down bag costs way more), and a few other considerations. Additionally, sometimes people are on extended trips through multiple climates and/or seasons, or expect to be away from civilization (so grocery stores and gas stations) for several days at a time instead of one or two. Sometimes, you're 2-up and have both the extra body and need more stuff in the bags to accomodate them. Also I may not be out for a bike adventure. I use my bike for almost all transportation needs so I might just be loaded down with stuff I need at my destination or need to transport from point A to point B but don't want to use my truck for. That's the heaviest/bulkiest I ever load it. One time it was ~180 miles with soft panniers, top case, 75l bag in passenger seat, and 2 backpacks on top of the panniers bungeed against the 75l bag. I had just moved, but had stuff in the old area bc I went on a ski trip (by air) after moving most of my stuff to the new place with the truck/trailer and riding the bike back up to leave with family while I was gone. It handled the load perfectly fine, better than one fidgety passenger with no bags/cases. I bought the bike I did because it handles just fine with a big load. But if I want to do more demanding terrain or really fast carving, I can always set up a base camp and leave stuff behind for the day, or plan/pack with that type of riding in mind. Not every trip is the same, people just have different goals in their riding.

[@TarunChoudhry]

Fantastic .. just the kind that i wanted to share among my friends. They think i am depending on them on tours and hence i pack less. This is exactly what they need to see. Excellent scripting/impromptu

[@notanymore9471]

As a new rider I have been trying to decide between what type of luggage racks hard/soft etc to put on my cb500x and watching this definitely helped. Thanks for the video !

[@crispinleslie]

I found your channel through your Warhorse video and I was intrigued there to see how light you travelled; thanks for demystifying that with awesome real world advice. The minimalist in me really appreciates the wake up call. :)

[@RollerGuideX]

Love the wit and humour mate! On point... Always been a fan of soft luggage and strapping it down nice and low to the bike. Being able to swing the rear with throttle control has been one of the most exciting things for me personally...

[@mitchellsteele3878]

Great content and wise advise, good to see you back home safely, long trip for the warhorse though, thanks again for a very interesting vid , cheers and safe riding , Mitch 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@miguelmaia9668]

Simple and ready to go without the “what if’s”, that’s what is all about. Continue having fun and sharing 😎

[@WhatTimeIsIt369]

So true! You need to be able to take care of yourself for sure but people, including myself at one time, get caught up in every possible "what if" scenario and end up packing way too much stuff. It's kinda like when I started fishing in streams. I had a rod and a few hooks. Went everywhere with runners and jeans up and down and through the rivers. Now I carry literally over $5000 worth of gear on me to be better prepared. And although I like that being prepared feeling I hardly ever need most of the things that I carry. Same thing.

[@davechavis4275]

Hey Adam, love what your doing for us here. I agree with the travel lite freeze at nite , but for me with a few broken bones and alot of years riding i just dont go as hard as you do , so i still go on MY adventures with a few more comforts than you on a less off road capable bike (BMW 1200 GSA) and still have a big smile on my face. Cheers from USA!!!

[@chetwinkles5051]

Simple, to the point from a man who's been there and done that. Best Damn motorcycle channel ever...nuff said.

[@lukefish7562]

That was great Adam. Appreciate it. 🏍💨

[@MrSimonmcc]

Love this no BS approach. McGregor and Boorman have a lot to answer for. I've always used soft luggage and pack very little on top behind me. I've even had guys I ride with laugh at me for carrying my hydration pack with essential bits and pieces in (learnt from my days of all day mountain bike rides). Thanks for the vindication.

[@MusicalMemeology]

Yeah it’s a pity ktm didn’t back them. Their huge heavy bikes they used have a lot to answer for. A Tenere or desert x or any of the smaller bikes would be much better. Even a Honda Africa twin would probably have been a better bike for what they did.

[@Andrew-vz3qk]

Mcgregor and boorman took their bikes through some of the most isolated parts of the world before youtube and before social media where they could do their information gathering. They had minimal information for what to expect and so they packed accordingly

[@seekadv8066]

Thanks for sharing mate! I pack about the same, though I am carrying a couple extras.. Light camp chair, small pan for cooking & crocs(sandals) in my soft bags & a first aid kit, loo roll, duct tape, zip ties & head torch in my 3L hydration backpack.

[@elliotjharris9908]

Started ADV riding at the start of this year. I try and make a target for myself to pack lighter and lighter every time I pack for a trip. Works a treat!

[@bnt1428]

Everything you film just amazing and interesting adam im really exciting to see the worhorse again.

[@bokehbabe]

I am a backpacker that is getting into adventure riding and have been blown away at how much stuff I see being carried. I guess it’s the same for this as with backpacking….you pack your fears. With experience that 40 pound backpack gets down to 20 when you realize what items are really important. I guess this is the same.

[@MarcSherwood]

Sure, but I'll never leave my super light camping chair at home on a multi-day moto-camping ride. I feel so much better in the morning after not sitting on the ground, or a log all night that I can ride better. At least that is what I'm telling myself 🙂

[@bokehbabe]

@@MarcSherwood my chair always goes with me too 😂

[@leroyjenkins4123]

@@MarcSherwood what model chair do you have if I may ask?

[@MarcSherwood]

@@leroyjenkins4123 I've got the Helinox Chair Zero. It is expensive, but the quality seems to make it worthwhile.

[@leroyjenkins4123]

@@MarcSherwood I'll have to check it out. Tysm!

[@Tony-zp8xn]

I like to come back and re-watch some of these videos periodically. They're a good reminder of what's actually necessary vs the "nice to have's."

[@SB-Kiwi]

Really greatful for your content mate. I'm new to all this offroad/adventure lark and the web is flooded with both information and misinformation. I know with your stuff I'm getting the no bullshit advice which is invaluable in the the real world. Thanks mate. Champion.

[@Braapncamp]

Thanks for this video and well explained Adam. Fun too see that Your Biltema stove is a keeper 💪🔥, I pretty much pack a similar packing as base, very much how I pack on hikes in rougher terrain. There are a couple of differences, earlier I had a Motonaut pack system that simply is a strapping that works on enduros to large bikes and the bags just simple dry bags. This was really light weight but a tad fiddly to use but very much OK, around 8-10 Kgs in total. Then I went for the Mosko Reckless 80, just love it and packs tight and low. Very modular to your needs. BUT since it is robust as a tank and very engineered it weighs alot more than my good old packing system. The other stuff that differs is that I often bring a winter sleeping bag for the highlands or in spring /fall, does not weight much but requires volume. I also like to do hikes or other activities so I also bring a light pair of running shoes. I did an experiment his summer and wanted do carry beverages for the trip to last for 12 days (except the daily couple of beers). Dry meat like sausages and other dry ingredients. hat weighted in all more than I thought bu was an interesting experiment. Other wise I also buy what I cook for each day, except from a couple of dry meals tha is for the days you don't find anything fresh. Motovloggers tend to need alot of electronic as well, preferably kept in a tank bag, that easily could be carried. Where do you keep he electronics Adam?

[@Athe-Bathe]

How’s the reckless 80 in the long run? + Which brand’s luggage is Adam using?

[@Braapncamp]

@@Athe-Bathe I'm really happy with the very robust Reckless 80 after 2 years no wear at all. Seems like Adam use the Giant Loope? A syste i habe looked closely at. Seems great as well.

[@Athe-Bathe]

@@Braapncamp hey, thanks for sharing...I am thinking of upgrading to reckless 80 as I have heard so many good things about the products mosko makes. Giant Loop is not available in my country currently. Seems like a great brand though.

[@jamestaormina65]

Awesome video & great content. I’m a new T7 owner so I will be watching these videos closely. Would be great if you could link the bags in the description please. Cheers!

[@borut7125]

They're Giant Loop Coyote.

[@Michael_Shay]

It's a giant loop coyote bag :)

[@jamestaormina65]

Thank you!

[@leechunyendanielleecy2646]

Thanks for focusing on what adventure riding is all about and showing how it's down.

[@mtnbkreric1]

Hello from BC Canada 🇨🇦 thanks so much for the great advice. I like how you advise people to really get to know your motorcycle with nothing on it first, I will definitely be doing that. Also the tip of putting heavier things on the opposite side to the muffler. I learned so much from this video that will help me as I start off on becoming an adventure rider. ❤

[@NK-dl2nc]

Good info mate. I remember when I first started doing longer trips into Europe. Bought some aluminium panniers. Horrible things. Clashed with another riding leaving the ferry then took a load of cones out trying to filter through traffic on the M25. Got rid of them immediately. Used soft luggage ever since and pared down what I carry each trip. Just had a Week in Europe and still took things I never used or needed. That was with 1 30ltr kriega and 2 10ltr strapped to the sides. What the hell do these people carry in all those massive panniers and top boxes?

[@tonylawton6513]

Fuckin love these no bullshit videos, your 100% correct on the way people pack to much crap i was the same until i saw the light. Now its light bike and hardly anything apart from money and a phone and i'm good to go.

[@toddwmac]

Great vid...thank you. It is the reason I teach guys to practice hands free. Learn to trust the bike and keep that weight forward. Elbows out, toes in and ride it like a unicycle! Much appreciation!

[@dimitrisdimitropoulos6515]

Hey buddy!!!!! Lightweight baby!!!!

[@thambu19]

Deciding what not to put in your tool kit is a tough decision. Mind sharing what you take in your kit and why in a separate video?

[@Avensur]

Excellent chat mate! Cutting what we supposed to need to the essentials we need to survive out there on a solo moto camping trip.

[@leracer]

All good points here. Don't forget to set the sag for the load you have on there. One thing I've been doing is carrying my tool/tire repair/emergency kit on the crash bars of my T7, as I was also doing with Multistrada Enduro. That keeps the weight forward, it is always on the bike, no matter if I go for a couple hours or couple weeks trip, and when packed properly it can add a layer of protection when things go south... Another plus for me is that it props up the bike a little bit when it's laying on it's side, much easier for me to pick it up and being 167cm and 68kg, every bit helps! I also carry a 21" tube under the T7 seat, where the OEM tool kit used to be.

[@mabecka]

P.s. Hard panniers breaks legs!

[@adamnorton9701]

What brand are those bags. I need them for my Africa twin in the Vic high country

[@lucashobbs7119]

It’s a Giant Loop Coyote saddlebag by the looks.

[@steelbreezeventures9072]

Strongly agree with your views on overpacking. I rode from Canada to Ecuador and have changed the way I pack. No more hard bags and top case., soft luggage is the way to go!

[@DirtRiderLife]

As an adventure riders who also goes backpacking, I'm simply blown away by all the stuff some bikes are carrying, its plain crazy! On multi day adventures my bike carries the same gear I would put on my back plus tools and tubes, no more, no less

[@ironhorsegladiator5034]

Impossible to travel too light if camping on a 30 day adventure. Easier to check into hotels if you can afford it. It’s getting cold now and the reality of traveling light is next to impossible.

[@briancrumpacker]

True. I'm looking at the forecast here on the west coast in upper California and Oregon, seeing overnight temps in the 20's (f). Not sure how much access there might be to get off road due to snow however, but I'll surely take Riemann's advice and see where I can improve.

[@IamthePMofAustralia]

Great advice. Something I do when loaded up for ADV riding is to let go of the handlebars when I'm on a straight section and see how the weight tracks. FYI that same cook kit is available from Snowy's Outdoors real cheap, it weighs nothing.

[@shaddybros3566]

Ha I was only thinking of this the other day and wondering if you'd ever do a video on it. I think most people saw what Ewan and Charlie did on the Long Way Round series back in 04 & 06 & 2019 and thought that's the only way to do it... No ones travelling 30,000+ km over a weekend. Your Motonomad videos are testament to how light you can actually pack on big adventures, great content as always!

[@mikefyten7761]

Well said! I know a guy that packs 120 additional pounds on his very large adventure bike..60 lbs in each pannier....crazy! From my backpacking experience I learned to pack and travel light. Again Adam...thank you for your straightforward approach.

[@gasdive]

The most experienced adventure rider I ever met, Doug Sunderland, used to wear a warm, waterproof riding suit. When he got tired, he'd stop and lie down fully clothed. Helmet on as it sort of made a pillow. He got used to eating at a cafe or something every couple of days. He didn't carry a tent, or cooking gear. Just tools and spares, a couple of tee shirts, and that was it. Oh, and a log book. He logged every ride. Hit 2 million km in the Himalayas.

[@mrkwnklr]

I've packed my road bike down like the Beverly Hillbilly's. Wanting to get into adv riding. Really opened my eyes as far as distribution of weight and the handling of the bike, thank you, subbed.

[@Falin1989]

A good way to learn to pack light - hiking. When its only your back, you"ll think muuuuch more about what do you really need.

[@tbthedozer]

I think you have picked up on an important distinction between an adventure for a few days to a couple of weeks versus what everyone sees in documentaries where people are traveling across continents for months. They pack a lot because they need more self sufficiency vs like you’re saying an adventure where you’re out and not necessarily having to “live on your own” for an extended period of time. It’s our visualization from the stories and movies that lead us into the trope of needing the same level of kit they have to make a successful adventure. Thanks for the refreshing insight! P S the fuel bladder tip is gold. If you’ve planned the trip enough to know the fuel requirement to the next trail head and out that is a gem of a tip and the weight penalty on handling for cruising the highway is minimal. Genius idea!

[@Joasfotografo]

Great tips, mate! You're absolutely right on every point you made. Packing for an adventurous journey should be done meticulously, just as you've suggested. While embarking on an off-road adventure can be incredibly thrilling and unforgettable, it's essential to consider that approximately 90% of bike adventures will take place entirely on tarmac due to practical reasons. The primary factor is time constraints. Many adventurers have limited days available, typically determined by their work or business commitments. Venturing off-road entails higher risks of unexpected obstacles or accidents that could potentially delay the journey. This could be detrimental, especially when adhering to a tight schedule. Moreover, remote areas might lack proper accommodations or places to eat for days on end. Therefore, it becomes necessary to carry all the essentials for self-sustainability, adding extra weight to the journey. Even a spare bike tire is a must since finding one in the countries you cross might prove challenging. Packing for an adventure always poses a challenge in finding the right balance between the items you genuinely need and preparing for potential risks. However, one thing is certain: the lighter your load, the better your experience will be.

[@Mike-gg1mv]

This has been soooo overdue to be said! As usual, you articulate the points perfectly. Cheers! Keep being real.

[@Missis701]

If only you’d made this video before my NC500 trip this year! Took way too much rubbish with me, still I’m new to adv biking and sometimes you learn the hard way! Great video as always.

[@madihalli]

This is spot on! One thing i want to ask you is, if its a week long trip, what clothes do you carry and how many sets of them do you carry? Thanks for these awesome videos Adam. They're great!!!! Looking forward to more of your videos.

[@rangerjim3872]

I have not started yet. Just got the call to pick up my bike. Thanks for the info. Love the can of beans idea most.

[@mac46rr]

This is so spot on. I’ve fallen into the adv metal box trap! You end up filling all the space with tons of crap. For most of us civilisation is never far away and most countries do have shops to buy stuff from!😄 Now I have a n 890 Duke I have no option but to travel as light as possible 🙂😄 Keep up the great work fella👍👍

[@davidgerulski3490]

Excellent advice. And the size of the adventure bike is crazy, too! I rode Prudhoe Bay to Ushuaia in 28 days on a 650. that was plenty of bike.

[@wilko450]

Great information Adam, have trimmed my kit down a couple of times, up definitely learn what you use and don't use, always learning always and Adventure.

[@wesstacey2379]

Awesome 👍. Good stuff. Bought myself a 3m strap after the last film for my bush track flat tyre repair .... Looking forward to seeing what you have next.

[@gasnxt6805]

Your blunt delivery from this video had me hooked.

[@adventureallanglesaus6826]

If you read this I'm from qld and followed you since BLUE ON THE GREE. brought a wr450 and I love your content. Your story. All your videos. And this is where I am now doing some adventure riding and you are speaking my Language matey. Keep up the good work. True blue

[@davemcmahon8140]

Well done, I've loaded down my Rino and traveled the great white north of Canada, struggling to keep it upright at a stop. No fun there! Now I've gone to soft luggage and try to pack minimalistic. It is not always easy because we are trying to bring along the living room. But I'm trying. Great Vid, thanks!!

[@blacknight7201]

Thanks for showing everything you carry. Its great advice!

[@neil_the_wheel3493]

Excellent video. Starting with small, light luggage sets the tone and agreed with every point of this one.

[@jjj886dfhttgrdvjj7]

New favorite channel on KZbin. Awesome stuff!

[@irod2821]

Luvn this series! Thank you for sharing ur knowledge 👍 looking forward to the next episode👊

[@Kim76851]

You have my vote. Great advice and informative. Full respect. You rock.

[@RallyeX]

Great video. I’ve been there and back with luggage. First thing I bought was rear racks, saddle bags, and duffles. Probably 90-100 litres all up. Now I’ve stripped it all off and sold most of it. Running the Reckless 40 from Mosko. 2 man tent, mat, bag, kitchen like yours. Much better rig and it doesn’t impact riding position at all. Great to have a beer on Safari as well.

[@rezeerhonor2792]

This is the only guy on KZbin who actually gets it.

[@MrRplo]

A+. Maybe some packed adventure bike suspension set up and some riding tips in this series? I have watched many of your videos over and over in order to become a better rider.

[@AllForGamingX]

You are awesome man! Brutally honest, and to the point. 😅

[@keithunzicker6762]

Simplify and add lightness is spot on

[@Splintermill]

Never a perfect setup for every situation, but you nailed 99.875% of most people’s needs. I’m of the same mindset myself, keeping everything including my bike (CRF300Rally) lightweight and dependable. Makes it so easy to pull off a one nighter on a whim. If I decide to take on a BDR I really don’t think I’d add much other than a few extra “hidden pairs” of socks and undies. Maybe a bigger flask! Great video, love your approach!