Falling Trees, Owl Attack, and Overnight Rain: First 2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 Moto Camping Adventure

My first moto camping adventure on my new 2022 Kawasaki KLR 650 adventure was an eventful motorcycle camping trip. After nearly dropping a tree on my own head, we got camp setup and started processing wood for a campfire. Before dinner, though, we had one of the coolest wildlife encounters I've ever had in the woods. An owl swooped into our camp, literally 20 feet away from us, and picked off a chipmunk right in front of us. It was the coolest thing I've ever seen on a moto camping trip.
My first Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycle camping trip was a huge success. I was able to easily get all of my moto camping gear onto my new KLR 650 and we had a blast enjoying a campfire for the first time in months. Dinner was brats cooked over the fire, and afterward we enjoyed some delicious beverages and Mr. Puff Puffs in the firelight, before heading into the tents for the night.
Quiet mornings are some of my favorite parts of any motocamping trip, and this one was no exception. I woke up early, built a campfire, and enjoyed some coffee in the quiet of the morning before we packed up and said goodbye to this first Kawasaki KLR 650 motocamping adventure.
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[@DorkintheRoad]

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[@mymotorbikeobsessions]

To ride out to an empty forest to sit around a fire drinking beer and eating roasted meat is a dream I aspire to. Thanks.

[@daniellelievre1676]

"Sorry Squirrel! You're done!" lol

[@scallywags360]

"These are going to be ugly; but delicious, just like me". Your wit is what makes your videos so fun to watch.

[@Crittermoto]

That owl attack was a hoot! Pretty cool to see that so upclose and personal. One of the downsides to fall motocamping: you spend most of your time wet in the dark. Still better than any day spent at work 👍🏻

[@DorkintheRoad]

Yeah I'm realizing there's gonna be a lot more tent time when I'm camping this fall and winter...

[@21broadway]

6 weekends in a row!? You sure know how to have a good time Dork!! Cheers! Life long Honda rider but I'm loving that KLR

[@DorkintheRoad]

Gotta go camping. It's my job now 😁. Hard life, for sure.

[@rideoregonfirst]

Nice Maiden Voyage for the KLR! The owl was such a bonus!

[@DorkintheRoad]

It was so cool!

[@CalvinEdmonson]

Hello, I am new to the whole ADV thing. So new in fact that as of yet I have done none of it . But I have been watching a lot of KZbin videos about camping and gear. There are many good videos out there but I enjoy yours the most. Really good stuff. Best of luck in the new year!

[@martini7454]

You had me at 'Owl Attack'. 😂😂😂 Thank you!!!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for watching!

[@jamesoliver565]

It's always a pleasure to watch your videos.

[@Ambers-Adventures]

You have a great personality and I really enjoy watching you camping with your bike and friends. Thanks for your videos.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thank you very much!

[@brantmcfarland517]

Beautiful country y’all have up in the north west. Good job guys.

[@missourioutdooradventures]

As always enjoyed watching thanks for sharing 👍

[@royjmcc7]

Great video, awesome bike, can't wait for your in depth review of the KLR.

[@ozarksjon]

Great stuff, thank you!

[@nealtoner7875]

Another great video

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for watching!

[@nealtoner7875]

Been an avid viewer since the 250 days! Its been wonderful watching you go from strength to strength. I have lived through some dark days and had my confidence damaged, loosing my direction and even myself at times. I only express this because watching the Dorkside has been a true inspiration. Seeing your confidence and joy grow has really been a revelation. So i would like to say thank you. ❤️

[@johnnyg2969]

Happy Trails already has pannier racks for the 22!

[@DorkintheRoad]

I've got the Tusk quick release mounts on my RTW panniers so I kinda have to wait for the RMATV racks.

[@HFVidShotz]

Nice! Thanks again for allowing me to live the dream through you.😄

[@richardrandell5192]

Not only are you good at making fire, your videos are fire bro!

[@michaelahr1]

Great video, thank you as always.

[@marksampson48]

You had me at "that's what she said."

[@treetrunker13]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video. Thanks for your content, Dork! You’re the best!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for watching!

[@MyADV360]

The hook/tease at the beginning is hilarious

[@mckaymnm]

Nature at it's finest

[@kentkoontz9305]

That IS Exactly the kind relaxation I need.....

[@jaytownjunkyardfiles1999]

Excellent, keep em coming, you're doing great!!!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for watching!

[@aBluegrassPicker]

Another great video. To add to the firewood gathering conversation, folks in other states should know the local rules - many are "down and dead" only depending on where you are. What a great camping spot that is! Good job Dork!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Excellent point. You should always check your local regulations!

[@matthewspindler2665]

Totally epic man great work this is the kind of stuff i love doing and watching

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for watching!

[@KLRmurdercycle]

I'll take a well done Brat with bbq or mustard😋 I've seen hawks and eagles whacking stuff. Even an eagle fishing , but never seen an owl on the prowl. Have had a great horned owl in the scope for a few minutes. About 150 yards, I made sort of not so loud...psss psss psss, he looked directly at me. Amazing sinister glare from those big eyes.😄 That lichen in the trees usually makes good tinder. Maybe too damp in the PNW but around here it's like paper

[@garygardner9677]

Another successful putt n puff adventure - Excellent!

[@jgp9260]

Loved this! (Leaning tower of JAVA! haha) Stay safe, keep up the awesome entertainment, from the UK.

[@RaptorPackAdventures]

Bubba J has been wanting to go on one last camping trip. Now I have to go 😆 Another outstanding video

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for watching!

[@ericbryant1333]

Yet another Oregonian ADV rider with a KZbin channel. Cool watching someone from my neck of the woods out there. #KLR650

[@bakerbrook1]

Wow! some serious violence happening in the forest. LOL.

[@mega-hb4re]

You are brave by camping on a tent. I’ve done my share and at this point of my life I need safety around me whether is a vehicle or trailer. Too much going on on these times to be exposed like that. Happy camping!!

[@jcee2259]

Old school reply ( ) Too much is never enough.

[@PapaDougsAdventures01]

You excelled in Dork-ness on this video for sure. I did order the Fire Starter Kit

[@gwalker8257]

Makes me want to go on a trip

[@fortheloveofknobs]

Owls must be your spirit animal! 🦉

[@DorkintheRoad]

I guess so!

[@Mr.shadoe]

I don’t know if it’s been talked about before, but your nerdy shirt game is next level! Thanks for another awesome motocamp video!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thank you for noticing

[@bradh74]

Your coolest video yet thanks to a hungry Owl.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I have watched the footage a hundred times and I still struggle to believe it.

[@LordBilious]

Awesome seeing the owl get his dinner.

[@mart7404]

Way to go Dork & da Duck

[@larrylund1138]

Wow! How good can it get...

[@clarkpitts5393]

Nice one. A++

[@zenofthemoment]

My guess is someone, probably a forest ranger, took down the fire ring because it wasn't built on top of rock. The fire can ignite the duff in the dry months and it can smoulder under the surface for weeks or months until it ignites into a full on forest fire. Hunters unintentionally start tons of fires this way in the fall (I'm a hunter, so it's something I've become aware of). Best practice if you're going to build a fire ring, is to build it on top of a rock large enough in diameter to completely insulate the duff. If there's a river nearby, pull sand from the shore or bottom at the edge, pile that up in a 3-4ft diameter circle, then set your base rock on it, then build your ring around that. Obviously, dead out, no smoke, no heat on the back of your hand, when you're all done. Not trying to be pedantic, just trying to save you from the pain of losing your favorite forests, because it REALLY REALLY fucking sucks when they're gone.

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

Nice little trip. Cool owl vs squirrel scene😂

[@geoff9614]

Really good and interesting video thanks

[@HalfGiant_S80]

it was a Bigfoot, bro, just saying. I also love your channel, Dork. I appreciate everything you're doing. I can't wait to get out there. I going to build an XR650L with heavy mods planning on filming it and posting as a start to my channel. Thanks for the inspiration 🙏

[@Heartlanddualsport]

That is an awesome capture on camera buddy, Not too many people see that much less capture it on camera. Good stuff. Dale

[@osimnod]

Wonderful maiden voyage on the new KLR and appreciate the "pro tips" like: fire starters, firewood selection, prep for the next morning the night before, campsite etiquette - including hushed golf course voice volume in AM when there's no one within 500 yards, and your list of equipment to make the trip comfortable. Your riding buddy gets kudos for bringing jalapenos and mustard for his brat. End of the season here in Nor Cal so need to make plans for 2022.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I was trying not to wake up Ducfan in this vid... Though you're right I do tend to speak in hushed tones in the morning even when I'm alone. 😁

[@jerheino]

Good times.

[@tinateigen9230]

So cool that you filmed the owl attacking the squirrel! 🤣

[@DorkintheRoad]

Right place, right time!

[@noostNL]

Amazing you can still camp. Here te sites are all closed from oct the 1st till april

[@DorkintheRoad]

All our campgrounds are closed. This is a dispersed site.

[@slowboat_8651]

I wish they would do away with the daylight savings , don't need night any closer! And that owl was c.a.f.!!!! I have them on my property, they love hunting from my trees

[@rogershermanmusic]

I live in a place that stays on the same time all year, after living most of my life in areas that did DSL. It's really weird having the sun go down at 6:30 in the summer, and then having it come up at 4:30 am.

[@jamesbrace3212]

THAT WAS A BIGFOOT BRO! NO COYOTE OR OWL.

[@larrytucker1945]

DirtRacks has 2022 KLR pannier racks ready too order! I’m sure Tusk will have some soon.

[@uk2488]

Nice 👍

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for watching!

[@paulherron4289]

I gotta say I love this!! But damn you guys cost me a pile of money. The owl was next lvl!

[@jamesbower5995]

Happy-Trails and Dirt Racks both make pannier racks for the 2022. Looked like a great trip.

[@PBstx1100]

Good stuff! I’m sure you get this a lot but you inspired me to sell my Harley and order a tenere 700 to take adventure/ camping trips. You also are the reason for me spending a chunk of my savings on a bunch of moto camping gear so thanks I guess 😂

[@DorkintheRoad]

Dude, that's awesome! Also, I'm sorry? ;)

[@heatherleigh6087]

Good Lord ranger rick- that was straight out of an 90’s Nat geo

[@DorkintheRoad]

My mind was BLOWN.

[@unclebadger597]

Cool footie? 😆 That footie was FLUSH! Owl doesn't give an S about any video evidence you may or may not have against him. Hey I used a set of racks off my old KLR and they fit with just a minor adjustment. And I think it only needed adjusted from being dropped. Just saying any racks should fit.

[@fuzzchin]

Your new motorcycle is very nice. Excellent choice. Cheers

[@S.p.a.c.e.C.o.w.b.o.y]

Your KLR looks great, not sure if the UK where I am are going to get them. There isn't much public off road here maybe thats why. Found your channel because of your Versys 650 video's as I'll be buying myself one as my first bike in the Spring. :) Much love, ride safe.

[@johnnybigpotato2404]

Drop down the west side of the falls and hit Deb's Cafe' in Alsea. Catch the twisties back to the valley. Good stuff. ;)

[@killingmeslowly]

after the first cut i knew i need that saw

[@ovrlxnd]

One thing I have begun doing since 2020 when tons of noobs started venturing into "my" woods is simply to string some flagging tape across the entrance to my camp site. The tape is cheap, light, and comes in any color you want. Having a white rig, I bought white tape.

[@MrGrant440]

Just wanted to give you a shout out. I just traded in my 2020 Triumph Scrambler 1200xc. For a brand new 2022KLR. I LOVE RIDING IT !!! Also picked me up a new Klim Latitude Jacket. Bring on some fun weather. Thanks for inspiration!!! Keep up the great videos

[@DorkintheRoad]

That's awesome! I hope you love it!

[@MrGrant440]

@@DorkintheRoad Are you thinking you will do the classic klr mods….thermo bob and the doo hicky spring ? Seems like a cult following to get those swapped out

[@jason.couture7177]

The Milwaukee 12v hatchet/pruning saw would be a nice addition to the camp kit. Light enough to pack on the bike. Save the arm strength when cutting fire wood.

[@jcee2259]

It is warmer sleeping between two SMALL fires. Share fire tending done by a roll and toss as opposed to bag exits. I don't eat or keep food near my camp. Ditto food waste bags. Hoist the food bag up below a high limb w/ 9.3mm cord. Same is sized for Prusik, if needed.

[@owenlushadv]

Kudos to Duckfan to always being game for being in the videos!! Even if he does over his face!!

[@southerndualsport3827]

Haha "did you catch it?" -- "yeah, with my neck" 🤣 👍🏻🍻

[@DorkintheRoad]

😁

[@awaw7133]

Look into the Silky pocket boy saw. Smaller and works great.

[@shawing]

Wish we had this model in uk! it makes me ☹ kawa doesn't send it over to us, I'd defo give it a go as first adventure bikey!

[@jeffknobby2700]

Thanks for the discount!! Just ordered a pack of starters from Bigfoot!!

[@jeffknobby2700]

I did use your link of course 😝

[@DorkintheRoad]

I think you'll be very happy with them.

[@jeffknobby2700]

I’ve been out on three trips in the last two months. Going again this weekend…Make it count before the snow falls!!!

[@klrnomad]

I took my 2022 ADV model moto camping/off-pavement for the first time this past weekend. I'll preface this with I haven't ridden a motorcycle off-road in many, many years, and I've only had this new bike two weeks. That being said, I still feel there were several issues. Some can be fixed, some can't. First, the gear spacing is horrible for real-world riding, meaning it's geared to do exactly the speed limit, not 5 mph over, like every car behind you expects on the road. On forest roads I was always in the realm of needing to upshift, but when I did I had to slip the clutch or it did the chug-chug. Second, the rear tire SUCKED on both loose gravel over hardpack AND mud. It felt like I was loose and about to go down every second. The bike squirmed all over the place. Third, shifter position vs foot pegs height. But that's been mentioned. Fourth, no tach. When wind keeps you from hearing the engine, you have to constantly remember what gear you're in, and your speed. Otherwise, it was a fun trip.

[@grandriver3152]

"Ugly but delicious, like me".... Lmao😁

[@DorkintheRoad]

😁

[@danwarmke3348]

Definitely ketchup on brats

[@DorkintheRoad]

A man after my own heart

[@AboutaMileAdventures]

A-1 steak sauce is amazing on brats, epically with some cheddar cheese on top, give it a shot

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks for the recommendation!

[@scotttaylor3872]

Sausages demand mustard and kraut. Bratwurst should be boiled in beer (Coors Light will do) and onions, then grilled. The onions can be strained and then sauteed to caramelized perfection. You need to watch a few more of Sterling's videos. Up next - "Caveman Cooking with Ben" - a new Food Network show.

[@artwebb6939]

Nice campout, especially the owl Do the factory hard bags lock ?

[@TheFalcro1234]

Super lucky getting that Owl getting the Squirrel. As I have stated many times I really enjoy your content. I am still trying to figure out how to get my disabled butt onto some kind of ADV scooter I am not sure if I can do all of the off road riding but I didn't think I could even ride on the slabs anymore... I can do that in spite of what I thought, so maybe I can to some light ADV.... time will tell.

[@DorkintheRoad]

This spot is a great example of the kinds of places you could probably go. There is a paved road leading right up to the entrance to this spot. No off road required (except for the last bit leading to the site)

[@TheFalcro1234]

@@DorkintheRoad This is why I watch you and your content. I am always pleasantly entertained and then subsequently encouraged to try. Thank you

[@davidsanders364]

Cool seeing the owl get the squirrel! Ever seen Bigfoot?

[@DorkintheRoad]

Only in the mirror

[@takoma808]

As an Australian I can confirm that it's pronounced baa-bee-cue. Well done. Mate.

[@kevinfergerson7169]

Dryer lint works great as a fire starter. I keep a ziplock bag of it with me at all times!

[@tylerhickernell3099]

Great vid but BBQ sauce on a brat?! Your buddy knows how to do it right.

[@grayghost1423]

Singgy, I'm using that...

[@dinoschumacher9226]

Marlin Dorkins!

[@mikebooker7854]

Really enjoyed your video and love the quality of the filming. Can you let us know what camera you filmed this with? Thanks again for video. I have a 2017 KLR myself.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Entirely filmed with my GoPro Hero 9

[@carlospinzon9842]

Great video, question: do you have the abs option on your bike, if yes how does it handle in the off road terrain?

[@rxreyn3]

It would be great to hear your thoughts on the KLR vs the DRZ in the context of moto-camping for 1-2 nights.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Working on a comparison vid. I just want to get more miles on the KLR first so I feel like I know what I'm talking about. In terms of motocamping though, it has a lot more to do with luggage than the bike itself. Just depends on how you want to set your bike up.

[@rxreyn3]

@@DorkintheRoad Since when do you claim to know what you're talking about?

[@arthurb8631]

Love the vids. Bugs get in tent? You worry about trees coming down at all?

[@DorkintheRoad]

No bugs in tent. I always do a quick scan for widow makers before I set my tent up but around here it's more about falling branches than whole trees, usually.

[@soilsmanadv6673]

Show that age with a Wilson from "Home Improvement" reference....you "Tuber" you

[@joecalabro4633]

Mutual of Omaha Just drove right by it here in Omaha Nebraska

[@DorkintheRoad]

It still exists!

[@riedlj1]

Be careful about tree roots when you build campfires. The tree roots under the soil can catch on fire if you get things hot enough and continue to burn for days. Love the content by the way, but try to leave no trace if possible.

[@21broadway]

Hahahaha nature is wicked!!

[@DorkintheRoad]

absolutely!

[@matthewspindler2665]

Next time el coyote invades my site i will have to send you vid of our mexican standoff lol

[@corriecole4687]

What is the break procedure for the klr

[@SlowEddie]

If a dork hoots in the woods…

[@SlowEddie]

RIP 🐿

[@brownharr1]

Holy Crap Duck Fan! Just commit to your KZbin fame already. 😄