Arizona | This Motorcycle Ride Almost Killed Me

In this video I go for a very challenging hard enduro ride on the edge of the Aravaipa Wilderness in Southern Arizona. After riding for about 13 miles on the rough road, it proves to be too tough for me and I worry about going further with almost no water left. I am very exhausted and dehydrated and I do not want to risk getting injured all alone in this wilderness so I decide to turn around. I crash the motorcycle several more times on the way back before deciding to walk out. This is not an easy choice to make but I am completely exhausted, dehydrated and have almost no water left. If I were to get injured it would be game over. I will return for the bike later. On the way out I find a small spring with dirty water, which I boil, before continuing the long walk out. I learned a lot on this trip about pushing my limits, safety and survival. I feel very fortunate to have made it out of the desert after this ordeal and plan on doing several things different in the future, like carrying more water, not riding alone on a route like this and turning back sooner when the road becomes this challenging for me.
Location - The Rug Road - Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness, Arizona, USA
Motorcycle - 2020 Husqvarna 701 Enduro LR
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[@SterlingNoren]

Website for this video: www.norenfilms.com/videos/my-enduro-ride-became-a-desert-survival-ordeal/

[@tennyis28]

I just want to Thank you for being humble and showing mistakes. A lot of times these videos are edited to make people look like amazing riders, etc

[@TerryBlanchard]

“I’m gonna chill the fuck out.” Wow, did this ever resonate. As it has been said above, many times. This is the video that is real. This is the lesson. We all have to have our own personal, “Fuck! I exceeded my limits, and I’m not sure about my recovery.” As frightening as this was, you documented and shared a personal and tragic experience that we are all the richer for. We can all learn from this. For that, I cannot express enough gratitude and appreciation. I think I would’ve pounded all of the beers, whiskey, and wine in the van that night.

[@riksavering7049]

Sterling, you’ve been quiet. I hope all is well. Looking forward to your next video 👍🏻✌️

[@a.k1311]

Yes i was wondering where he is. Its been a while!!!

[@yagian]

I wonder if the girlfriend has forced him to sell the bikes and give up this motorcycle nonsense :D When he said he was going to call her for a rescue I winced. That's going to hurt more than that long walk out.

[@doc650adventures]

Sterling, good onya for this extremely honest and educational video on knowing one's limits. Glad you made it back safe and sound. Out there in AZ, you guys have some great areas to ride but as you have shown, there are some very challenging areas which would test us all. If I were closer, I would go ride with you on my DR650 and try to not slow you down. Again, lots of egocentric guys would not have put this video out but you see the big picture and helped quite a few riders today! Cheers!

[@gatorbobinc]

Well done. Look forward to the rescue of the bike video. Go EVA!

[@GeorgeBoobyer]

That was tense! It’s easy to say “know your limits” and “don’t travel alone” - but when these things happen, having faith in yourself, a level head and keeping cool when planning your next move are the skills that make the difference - glad you’re safe and looking forward to the next phase of this adventure.

[@hamerplayer1229]

No Garmin Inreach, No Extra Food, No Extra Water? Next time take someone with you and bring extra supplies. The dessert is no joke

[@carls.2071]

Yup!

[@AT2021Rocker]

This is the perfect stop and think moment BEFORE you head out! What could go wrong and am I ready to deal with it?

[@sgtunix]

Don't forget to bring enough dessert, too.

[@Stuffonyourknee12]

Yeah I think he clearly stated those mistakes…

[@psunaminami6672]

i dont understand the decision to leave the bike behind. if your worn out, rest a few minutes or however long it takes. pick the bike up and do it again...better than walking i assure you!

[@Buckarooskiczek]

Wow. Going up that rocky hill, I was thinking to myself, “This would be challenging on my trials bike…no way would I take a dual sport but this guy is more experienced…” Well Sterling, you have balls of brass and now you have given us all some if your earned wisdom. (Wisdom comes from experience. And sometimes experience is the result of mistakes.😎) Deep thanks for taking us along!

[@carls.2071]

I wonder how many people with said "brass balls" would trade them for a few ounces of common sense?

[@paulherbst752]

I'm relieved you made it back to camp and hope all turns out alright. As an aside, I appreciate your documentation of a cautionary tale.

[@michaelc.3812]

Whoa, brother. I’ve been onto some trails like that, ones that you are sure you can’t go backwards and you start wondering if you can go another 100 feet. But I always have had other riders with me on those trails. Thanks for your honesty, and thanks for filming the difficulties. The boiled water trick was a great example to all who follow your channel, and a reminder to always bring fire starting devices. You may need a husky friend to get that bike out, and that will be a good friend.

[@a1scoot]

As an avid off road rider I have been in a few of those perilous situations myself….You really find out how much grit you have and grow from it…..Glad you made it out.

[@paul.vanhout57]

Tremendous humility to share this: we often learn lessons the hard way. Not sure if you have one, but an InReach or similar tracker/message device would be invaluable in situations like this.

[@68GIBY]

my respect for you sharing this lesson, I have a InReach and all way travel with it, does not matter how easy the road or the trip will be you never know

[@stevenjaythelonerider899]

You said "I'm going to Chill the F#ck Out". That was hilarious. I appreciate you style of cinematography. I discovered your channel a while back as I am researching different styles of video production. You are a true professional. I hope that I can produce quality video such as yours. Steven Jay

[@beachsketch3531]

So easy to get in over your head, even when you’ve been everywhere on a bike. Thanks so much for these amazing videos!

[@heidiolivadoti1378]

Thanks for sharing this, Sterling. So often on KZbin you see these incredibly skilled riders doing amazing things and I'm often left feeling like I will never be able to ride well enough to go on an adventure. When someone like you, will all of your experience, comes out with a video like this, it brings things back to reality. I will be sticking to the graded, gravel roads for a while and take riding classes. By the way, two weeks ago I found a new, left over 701 Enduro LR and bought it. Love it but... Slave cylinder on the clutch gave out with 10 miles on the ODO! Luckily there is a Husky dealer in town and that's where she sits on this father's day weekend! Bummer. Glad you're OK. Keep up the great video content. My wife and I are hooked! Troy

[@DavidParisoe]

I love watching your videos and I'm looking forward to the next one.

[@chugachocho]

I noticed those bars slamming with the terrain. Looks like the suspension was way to stiff for that road. Oh another lesson I hope you learned is to bring a water filter that will filter giardia. Best of luck ! Stay safe

[@SK-kt2ch]

I was thinking the same thing on the suspension. I don’t ride off road but I was thinking that his damping and rebound weren’t proving adequate grip and flexibility to get over larger objects when needed.

[@stevedaniel7648]

Congrats on surviving a tough , tough experience - a timely reminder for all lone riders to know your limits and stay within them. Thanks for sharing…

[@williammacpherson4004]

Glad you made it out, I was sitting upright rooting for you at one point during a hill climb. I've been is some sketchy situations on my bikes but not at what I assume 100F (high 30sC). The drama is justified, very close call. Hearing one of the most experienced moto-video journalists globally give a clear and transparent lesson, just confirms why I am a devoted fan. PS. I just ordered a Spot X transponder after watching this.

[@bsmukler]

Thank you for releasing this video. I did a lot of sketchy solo hiking and climbing 45 or so years ago and was just lucky that there were no life-threatening events. I'm nowhere near your level in either photography or riding, but I love both and still have the bad habit of going solo. I don't want to join the "should have done this..." chorus, other than to say that this video is a serious reminder of how quickly a situation can go from fun and slightly risky to potentially deadly. I'm guilty of not always strapping an InReach to my backpack straps when riding or hiking and of not usually carrying a Lifestraw or filter. The InReach isn't a silver bullet either, but would allow a rider to (1) send and receive texts with friends or loved ones, asking for assistance, or (2) if necessary, using the SOS feature just to open a text conversation with locals (rangers or sheriffs) asking for water and a ride out, or assistance with getting you back on the bike and riding out. But, overall, the best thing about this video (apart from your having survived to edit and publish it!) is as a serious reminder of how quickly things can go wrong. Glad you're okay, and I look forward to the next installment of how you recovered the Husky.

[@leftystrat62]

I'm certain this video's honesty will save someone's life out there. Thank you, thank you for sharing and we're all glad you made it.

[@tomm4086]

Wow, Sterling, what an experience! Kudos to you for pulling yourself together in an extremely challenging and life threatening situation! You made all the right decisions to save yourself, a very difficult thing to do when you’re fatigued and dehydrated; amazing! Thanks for the amazing and honest video! Best wishes!

[@rickeyvarga5432]

Thank you for sharing this Sterling. Words alone could not convey the valuable takeaways from the adversity you faced and your good decision making which ultimately got you "home". This one sticks!

[@sheriewelsford]

Wow, that was quite the ordeal! So glad you got our safely. Thank you for sharing.

[@G0ld3nB3ar]

I appreciate your humility and thought process in dealing with this challenge. I had a similar situation where I planned to take a 120 KM remote road by myself with a fully loaded bike. I reviewed as much info as I could and found a forum post of an ADV rider who had taken the road a few years earlier. I was prepared for the worse and in the end it was easier than I had expected. Not a bad thing. Looking forward to the recovery. That is looks likely to be an equal sized adventure with trucks. All the best. Glad you are okay.

[@AT2021Rocker]

Holy crap Sterling! This is why you don’t ride technical alone! Thanks for your video and humility!

[@markust8904]

"I'm gonna chill the F*** out. That tells me a coupla things, You have had enough, for the day, Your pissed at yourself for getting in this sitch (riding alone) and dehydrated, no food and strength weakened. But you did it and survived, rattlesnakes and all. Good thing you brought your lighter. Been there done that in Canada, substitute cold for heat. Thanks for that.

[@timvilleneuve7244]

Great video to follow your candid exploits and lessons. Have been waiting eagerly for you rescue video, hope all is well. Thanks for sharing.

[@robertburpovsky865]

You showed good judgement, Sterling, I mean stopping and deciding to walk instead of pushing. Good job overall. Once more, a great learning experience for all of us.

[@motometaphor]

Sterling, I so wish I had seen this video of yours a month ago. Through a series or bad decisions, a group of 3 of us found ourselves in a similar situation and had to call search and rescue at 3am to come get us out of the desert. Hats off to you for continuing to record during the difficult times. I had a hard time thinking about recording my journey when things got really difficult. Like your bike, my 701 sometimes gives me a false sense of being able to tackle anything.

[@siddharthaganguli5299]

Very honest portrayal of the ordeal that you got yourself into. How a causal ride can turn perilous. Must watch for all adventure enthusiasts.

[@BorisOnWheels]

I've been in similar situations, but never brave enough to document it. God bless you, Sterling!

[@hannahnoel7272]

Can’t wait for the the next video! Thanks for educating and sharing.

[@BajaExplorer]

glad you made it back safely. The older I get I think dirt riding is like scuba diving. Don't go alone !! Good luck my friend.

[@elgringoec]

That is some well earned wisdom from the school of hard knocks! Hope the retrieval effort went well.

[@jrdepew]

Relate to this completely. Came so close to punching the SOS button on my InReach in a Utah desert once. Dehydration cramps, foot injury, utter exhaustion. Thanks for putting this out there.

[@SterlingNoren]

Wow, scary. Glad you are okay.

[@markbevans8564]

Sobering experience sir, wow. Thanks for showing sharing this day with the folks, as things can so very easily sideways, and leave one in a very very bad way. But yes 2 on the trail is a great safety measure. I never would have thought to boil that murky nasty water, super kudos!

[@Schlumpi81]

Sterling, that was intense. I am glad you are ok! Thanks for having the courage to share this for the benefit of all of us.

[@Wildirishmanbiker]

Sterling, well done. Didn't panic. Good decisions and you made it. My biggest fear is getting too far back in that country with no cell service and have a mechanical, I do solo stuff all the time and it's always on my mind. Glad you kept your shit together. Glad you are safe and sound

[@mterk61]

Well that was a great tutorial on why we don't do unknown back roads alone. I am very happy that you made it out of there and it was a learning experience. I recently did a similar mistake on my new KTM 890R and i am also a very experienced dirt rider but these are still big heavy bikes. I know that once you are exhausted it is extremely difficult to even do simple tasks. You have taught us all to go with a buddy and not alone!! Thanks for that!

[@remerglobal]

Glad you’re still with us Sterling!

[@billevans3067]

Experience... That thing you get right after you actually needed it.

[@NorthWestMotos]

"This trail is easy." Famous last words. Thanks for the raw film.

[@pegbrady225]

So glad your ok! Thank for taking the time through this ordeal to share, your struggles, thoughts, humility!

[@mrfdr12]

Sterling... I know the feeling! Good thing you dd not panic and you survive the ordeal!! You are living the adventure!

[@DonPlaton]

Great video & wonderful lesson! Thank you for posting.

[@AmirSaleemShah]

Thanks to GOD you are back. Thanks for sharing this video. Thrilling and educational .Good Luck.

[@johnoneil4688]

I took away two lessons: 1) Adventure isn’t always fun while it’s happening. 2) When it stops being fun, turn around. I’m not sure if people watching this would truly understand the severity of the situation you were in, unless they have been through it first hand. You were in trouble. Glad you made it out ok.

[@tonylucente2674]

I'm glad you're ok Stories like this help remind us that we need to assess before every ride

[@dandiego7298]

Thanks for posting this uber-honest introspective on your ride. Adventure begins when trouble starts.

[@toastypassenger5111]

I put myself in a few bad spots before, on my Africa Twin… big mistake. What you did was way beyond what I would have tried. Glad you made it out. Definitely lessons learned and reenforced safe riding practice not to attempt alone and know your limits. Enjoying your videos, your partner is wonderful. See you this summer in Bisbee, stay well!

[@brucet1467]

I have been following your videos the past few weeks, and I am loving them!

[@SterlingNoren]

Glad you like them!

[@brucet1467]

@@SterlingNoren I live in southern AZ as well and I absolutely love how you capture the beauty of the landscape. If you truly need a riding buddy. Hit me up.

[@tonycastro6805]

Daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaam Sterling, that’s rough tough trail. I’m exhausted just watching you. WOW great video.

[@SK-kt2ch]

Humble, entertaining, and high video editing talent. Sterling is the man!

[@davethum4421]

Wow! Those fuckin' baby heads are brutal. So glad you're okay Sterling. I love your authenticity and humility amigo - you're the best. A busted ankle on a fall would have been life threatening. I carry an emergency kit with an emergency blanket pouch, some body warmers, and a water filter straw in case I have to spend the night on the trail. I almost thought I was going to need it one time when riding down some gnarly rocky downhills on my 1190 in the Sierras. Thankfully I was with a buddy on a 950SE. We decided to turn around also - getting late after a full day of riding and it was still super hot so I convinced him to turn back. We managed to get our bikes back up a couple of steep hills - it was exhausting. So glad we turned around - at least a couple more downhills were ahead if we hadn't turned around and I don't think we would have had enough energy left to climb back two more. And I'm not sure I could have done it by myself so super grateful to have not been alone that day. I've ridden plenty of times by myself but usually try to stop before it gets too rough knowing the consequences. I got rid of my 1190 and bought a 690. I thought I would be able to ride way more difficult trails with the 690 but it's not as simple as I thought. At least it's easier to pick up when I'm tired. I think you were seduced by the smaller bike assumption that it was possible to keep going even when part of you knew this was a bad idea. So happy you made the decision to leave the bike - that's a hard one. Older and wiser now. Hope to see you soon, say Hi to Eva. Dave Thum

[@njpaddler]

Sterling, this is a lesson, indeed. Good job keeping it real ! I was expecting broken Husky or worse, bones.

[@MarkKeckeis]

Noren - looking forward to seeing how this ended up. Stay safe and thanks for posting! The AZ is for real a dangerous place.

[@JohnDoe-xm9ql]

Damm I need a nap now. Great video Sterling. Real deal. 💪

[@bactrianriderrichardengleb3698]

As a nurse and EMT with more than 20 years of medical experience & having spent decades in the back country there is a lot to unpack here. I would not advise drinking that water, unless death is a real concern. To kill all of the bacteria it much be at a rolling boil for 10 minutes per 1000 feet of elevation, e.g. 6000 feet=‘s 60 minutes rolling boil. What your did helped but didn’t make it sterile. Cramps are due to dehydration & electrolyte imbalance most likely. Yes, this was bordering on a real emergency. I’m glad you left the bike. That was a good call. Peace brother, peace, love, & safety.

[@pourpouri]

I never get tired of watching your videos Sterling. I believe you should have picked up a CRF300 Rally a KLX250 or similar bikes in this category instead of the 701. sure, your new Husqvarna is lighter than your BMW but still too heavy for that trail

[@SterlingNoren]

Thanks and yeah, still too big of a bike for that trail but I love it none the less and hope to find the sweet spot in terms of roads & trails for the 701.

[@alanbermensolo4728]

S, I follow you and have watched a number of your videos. Just stumbled on this one. I had a similar experience. You used all your skills and saved yourself. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Alan B.

[@pigeonpallz1733]

Hard to resist the call of adventure! I've nearly died from heat stroke years ago and to this day suffer from the effects, but the need to get out there is so strong at times I can barely stand it. Be safe out there whatever you do

[@ksmalls3785]

Dang man, lots of mistakes here and some would say even stupid rookie ones. But I'd be an asshole if I sat here and acted like I'd never made any that were similar. Good on you for recognizing them and being humble enough to release a video like this. We learn and move forward.

[@SterlingNoren]

Thank you... I appreciate your thoughts and comment!

[@snowflakesuperbike8294]

Thank's for your Honesty , Bro ! We live and Learn !

[@troyroberts]

Hell! I've seen some intense videos but this one actually had me anxious. Talk about speaking to soon, about the ease of the ride... man I'm glad you're okay.

[@chrisyoonful]

Kudos for keeping in the part in the beginning where you talk about it being 'easier than expected' -shows how quick things can change. Glad your safe.

[@davidmaynard1422]

Sterling, thank you for sharing this very open and honest story. I'm very thankful you got out of this safely, and brought with you an experience we can all learn from. Last September, on a solo rocky 2-track ride on my T-700, I pushed to ride longer into 100+ temps. At a large rock section, feeling exhausted, and very low on water, I turned back. Thankfully I made it to a house where they gave me water. Due to fatigue, I didn't strap my stuff back on properly, lost it, and had no energy to go back. Your video reminded me of the lessons learned that day. Thank you

[@theoffroadexecutive]

Impressive, honest, humbling - glad You made it back healthy, safe and sound! Been there with a bike too heavy & alone, and caught out sailing in 50+ knots, when good seamanship would have me never leave the port in the first place.....stark reminder, how quickly things can get out of hand even in benign conditions!

[@SterlingNoren]

I can imagine similar feelings coming from sailing experiences. I've sailed a little bit and respect the ocean a lot.

[@theoffroadexecutive]

@@SterlingNoren Your video brought to my mind a few motorcycle and some mountain hiking moments, but immediately resonated with dozens on the water: forget one step in preparation, or a series of mostly small and minor things happens...

[@paulocarreiro5855]

This was nerve racking! I'm glad you made out safe and can't wait to see the follow-up.

[@davidhaydock7699]

A good reminder for all of us. I too have found myself in the middle of nowhere, no cell service, horrible "road" and completely exhausted. Telling myself, "hey dummy, what are you doing?" Sometimes our spirit of adventure needs to be kept in check. Thanks for the valuable reminder. Glad you are ok

[@mitchappleby9166]

We haven't heard anything for a week. My hope and prayer is that you make it through this. The water source looks worrisome for being sick. Looking forward to hearing how you are. God bless.

[@SterlingNoren]

Thank you... I am okay. Made it out and should be able to share some footage from the bike recovery.

[@verbalwidget7267]

A useful hard lesson to pull from. My first XR650L duel sport blog went about like yours. An "easy ride" that went to hell, and by the grace of God I finally rode out of the AZ desert about 10 that night. Time on the bike will help, please carry a $20 dollar personal water filter, that fits in your camelback pocket. Unfortunately I have to ride alone too, but I try to have several back up plans. Leaving a functional bike? No ... Rest, drop the heavy gear & ride out. If you ever want another person to ride with, I'm always looking for an excuse to ride in Southern AZ. My days off are mid week. I can ride out of your camera view so not to ruin your videos, but be close by to lend a hand if needed. Take care my friend. Glad that you made it out, to make this video for others to learn.

[@decentdiversions]

Been in this kind of situation in Canada. Cracked my engine case on a rock riding alone, several kilometres from a road. I had food and water but didn't have JB Weld or spare oil. Long hike out, and then back in. Field repair and got the bike out of there. Was glad I had food with me as it bought me time I needed to make rational and calm decisions about what to do. Thanks for sharing, Sterling.

[@SterlingNoren]

Sorry to hear that - glad you made it out and back okay.

[@eisbarti7378]

Hi Sterling, I‘m very glad you made it home. I love watching your fantastic videos. Usually its kind of a meditiation seeing you driving through the wonderful landscape of Arizona of other parts of the US. This time it was totally thrilling and i asked myself, what i would have done out there on my own. Go on and thank you for letting us be part of your adventures. Markus from Germany

[@gunnsteinnjonsson9166]

Wow that was tens. l could feel your pain. Sorry but l could not help but laughing when you said in the beginning that this road was not as bad as expected and few moments later you were in survival mode. I know by experience that the camera doesn't show how bad and rough and steep the terrain actually is so l was amazed to see that you were able to ride up the hill as bad as it looked. I am glad you were able to make it back. Thanks again for another great episode. I would have liked to see when you went back to pick up the bike ☺️

[@joethompson297]

Sometimes the most important skill is just learning how to fall and drop the bike without injuring yourself! That road looks like a beast!

[@tnwilliamson]

Sterling, have you retrieved the Husky yet? Hope you are OK, I look forward to seeing your next video.

[@SlowEddie]

Holy shit man. I’m definitely getting some sort of emergency locator now. What an ordeal!

[@ppfeifer3]

Sterling, wish you would have taken me along. I'm familiar with that area and remember how rocky and challenging it was, I know some riders who got lost in there. I imagined you would ride into Aravaipa, camp, explore the Indian ruins, checkout the wildlife and have a beer with Eva next to the creek. I'm glad you made it back to Eden and shared your story, even better you didn't get hurt. Lessons were learned by all of us who watched and we're wiser for it, don't give up on your dreams.

[@SterlingNoren]

I really loved that area a lot despite the difficulties. I do plan on going back there with Eva and just relaxing in the peace and solitude of that environment.

[@ppfeifer3]

@@SterlingNoren There has been a pretty big fire close to that area so you may want to go after the summer rains. If you haven't already checkout the documentary called "The Powers War". The two sons hid in those mountains from the Army and a possy or a month

[@douggraham5575]

Amazing. Please show us some of your recovery when you go back for the 701. Thank you for posting.

[@michaelledford3315]

First of all, thank you for sharing a lesson that many of us have learned. My wife is continually telling me I'm going to get myself in over my head. I always respond that my experience will keep me from doing it. This video hit home with me because someone like yourself that has WAY more experience than I do can get in trouble. Glad you're safe and and thanks for what may be a life saving lesson for someone watching the video.

[@SterlingNoren]

Thanks Michael, you never know what can happen out there, its best to be as prepared as we can be... but also not let our fears stop us from doing things that can push our limits too. Find the right balance I guess?

[@justincoleman2740]

What an incredible thing to witness this. Your survival mode was truly impressive. Thank you for the lesson Sterling. Safe travels.

[@3smoke]

What air pressure are you running. I would run 12 psi, no more than 14 psi. Also switch out to off-road tires and add a steering dampener. The bike won't deflect off the rocks as much and allow you to carry more momentum. Then look for the smoother patches to do your braking and accelerating. Balance through the rocky parts, then brake hard after them to control your speed. You just needed a little more aggression and momentum to make it through those spots and the air pressure and tire changes will give you the confidence to do that. If your not used to running tires at that pressure trust me I live in AZ and have been riding terrain like that for 20 yrs. Air down and do a short ride with it to see the difference.

[@Trailryder42]

If those are tubeless tires, you can't run pressures that low. In terrain like that you'd spin them right off the rim.

[@JULESRULES9969]

I think his bike is geared too high. The speed it wants to run in first was just too much for this rocky stuff.

[@Trailryder42]

@@JULESRULES9969 I agree. What little I've had my 690 off road so far with stock gearing tells me it would be the same in stuff like this. You can ride at a slower pace in such terrain with such gearing but you have to control speed and engine rpm with constantly feathering the clutch. If you had to go far or do a lot of that, you'd toast the clutch.

[@davemitchell8756]

Sterling this was pretty dramatic. I think riding alone in rocky terrain is pretty risky. When I was younger three of us headed out on trials bike, one guy fell off and hit a solitary rock. It broke his leg. I noticed you got so hot you took your helmet off too.This video illustrates how you can get into trouble, especially where you live with miles of deserted tracks. Thanks for sharing the lessons👍👍🇬🇧

[@KIPMoto]

Best hiking video on KZbin! Seriously though I am glad that you made it out! Thanks for sharing, the days that humble you always make you a better rider and a better person in general.

[@SterlingNoren]

I appreciate that! Thank you!

[@johnvanzelm2307]

Best video in your series. Thank you for posting, it is what every Adventure rider should see when considering technical trails alone.

[@jg5529]

Happy to see you made it out. I ride alone frequently have been in close situations before and I know its usually to 2nd or 3rd problem that turns a situation into critical. I was worried when you bought the 701 because while it is certainly more manageable bike than the GS, I consider it to be a heavyweight when off-roading

[@douggraham5575]

I like your comment. I have a 701 and a 300, and think like you. I certainly don't ride my 701 on single track or trails as rough as Sterling's.

[@DualsportChic]

Glad you are ok Sterling. Always a rule of thumb in the DS world is never go alone as the terrain we venture is usually a big step up from ADV terrain. Great teaching moment for viewers you provide here.

[@george1984]

Boiling water is a good idea. Thank goodness you brought a lighter. If is too hot, maybe walking at night will not cause heat stroke. Luckily you are not far from Van. What I've learned in the wild: Always carry a fire starter, a headlamp, a raincoat, and a little food. Thank you for sharing this story, it taught us a lot.

[@larrydykes7643]

A good example of the Adventure Principle -- "When you go out for adventure, you never really know what kind of adventure you are really going to have". Good thing you were prepared with a way to make fire and something to carry water in. Nice improvising with the spam and coke containers. Waiting for the day to cool off a bit was a good call, too -- though it risked maybe not getting back before dark, which can have its own problems. Thanks for sharing - you might save somebody from getting into the same situation.

[@SterlingNoren]

That's my hope, maybe it helps someone. Thanks!

[@2wheelsandatent]

Great video and excellent storytelling! I have made a few videos like my Utah Lockhart trip on my 701 solo and many like it but I could not articulate the gravity of the situation visually or narrating even close to how you did. Glad you made it out and showed what is pretty much most of my motorcycle adventure life which is getting in over my head solo and pushing through somehow. You do make some great points it is our responsibility to know as much as we can, prepare etc. I never go solo on the 701 or even my 300 without my Garmin in reach 66i because of the preparing part and because that’s the deal I made with my better half. I can’t get over how many trips I have had similar to this and how well you made me feel like I was back on them with your film. Great job with the video and I would say you rode that 701 pretty darn well until you were exhausted. “Stay safe and come join the adventure baby!”

[@gaetan458]

Right on... Thank you for sharing this video not everybody would be able to film and show their mistakes & also not everybody is able to say enough is enough we'll leave it there and we going to walk. I think you made the right decision after this all deal, thanks again!

[@PyrateRumRunner]

I’ve been there and appreciate how quickly you have to change your mindset. Thanks for sharing so we can all be prepared. One suggestion: carry a lifestraw with you at all times.

[@markvonkarlsbad9062]

Well, that was intense. Thanks for sharing so honestly. I don't go more that a mile from base without a the ability to survive for 48 hours - weatherproof shell top, headlamp, UV water pen, and some food bars. It's been a long time since I got myself in over my head, this video brought back so vividly that sickening feeling, I feel like I've just had a bit of a reset of my own watching this. I think I've gotten a bit complacent going the last 10 years or so without scaring the crap out of myself, maybe you just saved *my* life, I'll let you know! Seriously, thank you.

[@SterlingNoren]

Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@evr-mr3cp]

Congrats on making it out. As you now realize that is way too heavy a bike for this trail. Being from Safford we have ridden this road from the Aravaipa side to Mammoth, ate lunch, gassed up and ridden back in a day. It is a fun but brutal ride on dedicated dirt bikes that I wouldn’t consider doing alone. Beautiful but desolate country in there, glad you are okay.

[@SterlingNoren]

Yeah Ive seen some videos of folks doing this ride on smaller bikes. I guess it could be done but I wouldn't want to do it again unless I was on a smaller bike and with some other riders. Thanks!

[@ibadi45]

I am glad that you finally could made it to your Ban. Thank you very much for sharing with us your ordeal and your advices.

[@sethswartout2678]

Just wanted to say thank for all the work you put into your videos. You inspired me to go on my own adventure this summer. Beartooth mountain pass was amazing.

[@TheDailyRider]

Did something very similar on a R1200GS on a technical section of the TCAT in BC. At minimum from now on I carry a knife, something to make a fire, sat communicator and a water filtration device also, a bit of food something like nuts and energy bars. With those I'm good for 24hrs. I'm sure lots of riders will learn from your adventure. Thanks for posting.

[@DieselSniffer3500]

I’ve wanted a 701 for a long time. But I have to say after watching this video I’ve finally decided to go for a true dual sport. Whether it’s an FE501 or a CRF450rl.

[@gabekaelin4517]

I hope you didn't buy the Honda. They lack power and flame out often. The ktm/husky is the way to go.

[@DieselSniffer3500]

@@gabekaelin4517 the flame out is blown way out of proportion. My buddy got a 450rl and it was never a big deal and he loves the bike. I’ve actually decided to go with a xr650l because I love simplicity and reliability more than power