We Get Our A$$es Handed to Us on Section 5 of the ORBDR

[@derekbender]

Most people wouldn’t post this. Appreciate the honesty!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

yeah, I had my doubts. The outpouring of tips, and encouragement had made this experience worth it.

[@EricStenback]

Yep! Loved the honesty!

[@DorkintheRoad]

You guys bailed at a good spot. The sand is way worse between big lake and highway 20.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Well that’s great to know!!

[@FrancoisTX1974]

I think your main problem was not the best tire for hard off road but you did a great job guys.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

@@FrancoisTX1974 thanks my friend, I appreciate you not criticizing our skill level🤣🤣

[@FrancoisTX1974]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads I’m a rookie off road too ( 25 years on road) and I have a KLR 2022. Stock tires were BS and since I put proper off road aggressive tires, it’s night and day.

[@justsomedude445]

i would skip sections 1&2 as well

[@randomlyTrees]

You guys rock and kudos for putting out the real experience here. I hate riding on that silty shit, especially with a loaded bike. I get in my head and can’t loosen up. There’s definitely something to be said for setting up a base camp and exploring rather than treating each section as a Point-A to Point-B, slogging your gear the whole way. Ride safe, gentlemen! 🤘

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Much appreciated my friend!

[@toddgardner3088]

I just got done watching @DorkintheRoad series on the ORBDR and I feel I got enough of that Route just watching.. and I just got back from 1400 miles of Baja in May... I'm not sure I even want to try it after watching all the videos out there. You guys should be proud of yourselves for even trying something new. I've hunted, hiked and rode motorcycles all over Eastern Central and Western Oregon and people sometimes take it for granted how diverse and difficult the terrain is... Good for you guys and great video...

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Much appreciated my friend!

[@garygardner9677]

Congrats for the effort. You never know if you don't try new things. Keep it up, each trip will get better as you progress.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Really appreciate the words of encouragement!

[@dmsentra]

The one thing that seems to be most common to BDR riders having a tough time is the bike are pretty heavy and/or big. With little experience a lighter dualsport and minimal gear would be a great fix to that.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Great advice, Himalayans are extremely heavy for having so little power and size

[@bigbadv5775]

Its all about tires in that stuff. You need DOT Knobbies. Suck on pavement, but we never struggle on pavement right? On my KLR I ran D606 rear and Mt-21 on front. On the T7 I run Dunlop D908RR. Ive ridden sand all my life on dirt bikes, but riding on a 500lb machine is different and difficult. My KLR had 50/50 tires when I rode on from the shop. 10 minutes later on a sand trail I realized they had to go. My other BDR lesson was to lay everything out, then remove half. We always bring way more than we need. Get a couple lighter bikes and practice getting into trouble. It will help a lot when you jump on the loaded Himalayans. Great ride guys. Keep up the rides, because we learn from each of them. Im 61 this year and riding is a huge part of my life.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

That’s great advice! I was running 50/50 and eric was on stock. Solid lesson learned!

[@danielrife9869]

Don't get discouraged. You guys did great for only one year of off road riding. Different bikes that are more dirt oriented would help. Might want to also look into lightweight camping gear. Keep up the riding!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

You are spot on! Thanks for the words of encouragement

[@rolandwheeler4842]

Admire your perseverance. Tire choice and tire pressure are key. You guys are probably running blocky 50/50 tires. Need to run real DOT knobbies like Dunlop 606 tires. Something that can get below that layer and search for grip. Not as good on the road, but totally kick ass in most all offroad conditions.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Really appreciate the tip and this is the same conclusion we came to. That and our skill level

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

Don't even need dot knobbies. I run takeoffs from my 300 on my 701. gt216A front on there right now. I try and keep it under 90 on those... try.

[@chaoticsaint7798]

What kind of air pressure are you running to make it through the silt?

[@davislawrence3590]

Props to you guys for just gettin out there and giving it a shot I respect it.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks man, honestly I’m looking forward to more. Not more sand but more dirt

[@ADVwithRoscoe]

I think the two of you did a fantastic job. I take my hat off for the both of you !!!! You said you were you new riders and this is your first BDR great job? The sand is very difficult to ride in let alone have fun, tire pressure, tires motorcycle they are all factors are play in .. if the two of you ever want to go out and finish that session or do any part of the Oregon BDR hit me up? I’d be proud to ride with either one of two..

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks man, that means a lot especially considering how many times we need help picking those heavy bastards up! See you on the road, or the dirt my friend

[@The10thManRules]

Buck up, boys! This is how you learn. This is where real memories are made. Y'all are doing it together, if that don't keep a friendship together, I know what will. That's awesome. Anything that does not kill you...

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Appreciate that my friend!

[@justsomedude445]

we started in Plush and i broke my ankle about 20 miles from Christmas Valley on the first damned day of riding , i rode the rest of the way home to Wenatchee/Cashmere WA but almost all on pavement after that , we still stayed in Christmas valley , Bend , Govt camp , Stevenson WA , Packwood WA then home , did think it was broken but went to ER after getting home for X-rays and yup spiral fracture , 2 places

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thats nuts! pretty amazing to ride that far home with a broken foot! hats off to you my friend!

[@justsomedude445]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads LoL didnt know , ther doc was not as impressed , we are planning the 'redemption' ride for next spring as soon as its thawed enough to get through something 3-4 days at least to hit the sections we skipped over

[@themotomotion]

A real "brokebike mountain" 😂 just kidding, I loved the vid and the camaradery, safe trips, I just subscribed.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Welcome aboard my friend! Broke back spirit mountain🤣🤣

[@fortheloveofknobs]

Sorry you didn't have fun! That didn't look like a lot of fun. Good job making it that far! Oregon is one of the hardest BDRs. For folks with minimal offroad years, it's generally recommended to start on Idaho, Mid-Atlantic, or the upcoming Northern California BDR (next year) since those are the more approachable routes from a difficulty perspective. A few tips I have beyond that for you guys! 1. Try to go out for day trips without camping gear to get used to riding the bikes offroad and in the sand first - at least until you feel you've got some skills offroad 2. Not sure but it looked like you had a lot of camping gear. Try to keep the weight of gear to a minimum and pack heaviest items in the bottoms of panniers - backpacking gear is best 3. I recommend a full DOT approved knobby tire for the Oregon BDR, something like the Tusk D-Sport, Dunlop D606, Pirelli MT-21, or MotoZ Tractionator Desert H/T 4. In section 5 from Lava Lake Snow Park to Detroit is all regular forest service roads - this would be the place to start building your offroad skills

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Super helpful information, thanks for taking the time to provide some direction for us to focus our efforts. We've been camping on motorcycles with backpacking gear for many years but I'm learning that what works on the bagger is no Bueno for off road. Appreciate the comment

[@AllenSpeck]

What a great video. You guys should be proud. Its not as easy as everyone on youtube makes it out to be. Real eye opener for all the other riders just getting into adv biking. I have a DRZ400e that I have dropped a dozen times and several cracked cases. Ive had days like that and they suck. But at least you are doing it and living life. Good for you two.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Much appreciated my friend. This is easily the lowest we’ve been on bikes spirit wise. I’m glad folks are enjoying the video

[@AndrewChristopherEnriquez]

Great video! On my first BDR last year we had to bail due to rain on the nmbdr and so we pivoted and went to big bend instead and we got In over our heads there too. Ran out of water. Pretty much same story as yours. It was an eye opening experience at how much more difficult adventure riding is than influencers make it look in their snazzy videos! Having said that, that’s part of the allure for me. Finding that edge of my capabilities and trying to push them. Getting better ride by ride but knowing there is always a limit to be found. Makes it fore an actual adventure which I love! Anyway yeah great video hang in there!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

I’m really happy to read this comment, sorry for your struggles but it’s nice to know it’s not just us! Thanks for checking out our video my friend

[@leayoung3014]

Really good of you boys to show the real stuff!!!!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Even if our spirit was broken 🤣🤣 thanks for tuning in!

[@Cybeq]

Of all the ORBDR videos I've seen this year, yours is the best! It's very engaging to the viewer to see something so genuine and real. I rode parts of that area (Corbett State Park to Big Lake) on my KTM 390 Adventure to see how we could handle the "fluffy" stuff. It's very difficult and it made me realize I don't want to tackle Cache Mountain until I get more offroad oriented tires. Also, I almost bought a Himalayan instead of the KTM but I think you guys helped me realize I made the right decision.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

You def made the right choice! Yeah cache mountain is intense and we merely skated the foothills. Thanks for the wonderful comment

[@EricChristenson-se1yo]

Great video. I watched it several times. I hope you continue off road road adventures. Great name for a KZbin channel. Thanks for sharing.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Much appreciated my friend! Def going to continue off road!

[@TheArthurfonzarelli]

Have you guys done Barlow road? I did a central Oregon trip that made me question wht I ride offroad. The a trip to Barlow was the most fun I've ever had on a bike. I just started riding in 1990, so I'm kind of new to this 😀 Thanks for posting!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

We have not, but I’ll def check it out now!

[@TheArthurfonzarelli]

​@OldFriendsandNewRoads I should have added that I was on a buddy's xr250. So a significantly smaller, lighter bike...

[@CharlesCole-m1b]

Hang in thier guys , it can only get easier,! Glad ya run into my biking buddy Mark Crist ! Solid guy ...

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Mark was the greatest!

[@tonsofbees537]

Great video! I feel like this video was super relatable for the beginner adv off road rider. The ending was super funny.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks my friend!

[@LeoSteiner-x5i]

Thanks for your brutal honesty - I was going to ride my Africa Twin on that route starting with section 5 but a day before I was going to be there I bailed and rode home instead (maybe next year) WATER! carry more then you think you need - I was out riding Moab and started to run dangerously low on water and was fighting dehydration - luckily I always carry a water filtration device and was able to find a river for more water - ride safe.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks my friend, def learned my water lesson!

[@terrybuccambuso7917]

Great effort! Successfully riding hard offroad routes requires several things: 1. Lots of practice 1. Good physical conditioning 3. The right/light gear and bike 4. Picking the appropriate route 5. Knowing when to “fold” them! 6. A degree of preparedness for unexpected challenges… A very good try for your level of skills…

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks for that, you nailed it on all points!

[@dougiverson4297]

Great video, well done!!! Love the personal touch and not just the riding.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks doug!

[@TomorrowIsNow]

Just found you guys from the Dork! I enjoyed the video and your honesty. It seems to be the trend in "adventure bike camping" to take all the crap that the Overlander crowd thinks they need for car camping lol. When I bike camp I treat it like backpacking. If I wouldn't hike 10 miles with it on my back it doesn't go on the bike!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

That’s a great rule of thumb. I tried the same gear as I take on the bagger trips, clearly not the same🤣

[@rodbowden5870]

Guys you make me hoot :)........all a learning experience, thanks please dont stop gentlemen.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

We are far from done! maybe done with himilayans! LOL!

[@briansmith2933]

You guys are awesome.Thanks for putting it out there.That's honesty, and it's hard to say at times hope you didn't give up, but you need to buy some better bikes. Hope you're still keeping.The shiny side up as best as possible until your next adventure have a good one.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks for the great comment my friend! We did end up passing along the the himis for T7s and are having thoughts of a redemption ride!!

[@briansmith2933]

Is great choice.

[@mitchellpeters4811]

Good honest content!! You guys got a great sense of humor. Sand (and mud) pretty much always sucks but yeah good front tires will add some confidence...also lotsa practice and build up mind/muscle memory. Chin up, you'll nail it next time.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Solid advice my friend, thanks for checking out our video!

[@PNWMOTOSCOUT]

Thanks guys. I got a really good laugh out of that, sorry that you guys had such a hard time on that section.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks my friend, def type 2 fun and there's a redemption ride in the works. Thanks for checking out our video!

[@SlowEddie]

Bros…same - I thought I knew what I was getting into. Wayyyy harder than I thought! Great vid, found you from Dorks community post. Subbed! Don’t get discouraged!!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

I’m glad we weren’t the only ones, welcome to the channel, I didn’t know dork mentioned us on his community post.

[@SlowEddie]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads 👊👊👍👍

[@tenover]

Awesome video, thanks for sharing your ride. I'm headed up there to to OR BDR 4-6 and WA BDR 1-3 next week. Excited and a bit nervous.....

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Good luck my friend! I bet you’ll do awesome! We are super new to adv riding

[@kenbianucci2223]

One thing newer riders miss is the ability to air down your tires to something more dirt appropriate. It all depends on tire mfg. build and rim style but for me, when I get to the soft, loamy or sandy stuff I drop nearly ten pounds in the front and about eight in the rear on tubeless 890R. Just this can keep that sketchy front end from getting super fatiguing with a constantly bouncing and wandering front end. The rear will have much better traction helping giving you better drive through the loose terrain. Slowing down too much will only exacerbate the wallowing you get when riding in loose terrain. I use the micro pump from MotoPumps | Air Shot 2.1 and it rocks!! Quick to pump and super tiny but you do need a 12V socket to feed it. Don't give up as most of the best stuff on the West Coast requires some level of skill in the loose to get through to the good views\terrain. I would strongly suggest finding a local beach you can legally ride on and get out there with no extra weight and just working at riding skills, it does get better with time and practice.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

This is some of the best advice we’ve received on this video, thank you. Not filmed in this video is that the clutches on the himis were giving up and there wasn’t enough torque to go around. Now I’m on a T7 I will try this method out. Thank you my friend

[@kenbianucci2223]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads That T-7 will serve you far better than that pseudo off-road bike you had previously. I did get a chance to throw a leg over a T-7 for a couple dozen miles and it has that nice low down grunt that makes everything easier. So glad to hear that one bad experience didn't have you two throwing in the towel and instead had you find a much better tool for the job at hand. Having decent gear will make the entire experience better and for something that has to be good at both street and dirt is a very tall order. We are living in good times with quite a few bikes capable of doing massive on and off road miles. The only issue I had with the T-7 were the fairly soft springs at both ends, that is not at all hard to remedy with some properly sized springs and you two look like I do with some hefty meat on the bones 🙂

[@brookslyle402]

I remembered you telling me about the side by side’s and I was just waiting for it. Great video as always.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks brooks. Type 2 fun. There’s a ton of helpful suggestions in the comments. Looks like I have some money to spend

[@lordvader2060]

We’ve all been there. Props for the attempt. You’ll make changes and find better experiences

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Learn and adapt!

[@jkmarshall3553]

At least you guys are laughing about that experience. And you have me laughing too (the part about how the Himalayans suck. LOL!). And yeah, I know just how hard that soft sand can suck! I would have probably turned around too.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Glad you enjoyed it my friend!

[@jfarlandutube]

You guys are great bike salesman. Very funny. I think you could handle the sand. It was all those four wheelers that were hogging up the road pushing you over that caused the real problem.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Not sure that I could sell a Himalayan to an enemy at this point🤣 those side by sides were ridiculous. Thanks for hanging through our video

[@floboboman]

Dude your tires are no way the right tire for that sand. I would have been terrified to go through that

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Your not wrong, we def didn’t anticipate there being as much sand as there was

[@ridewitholdgrizz582]

Great video, You show the realities of back country riding, it's not all peaches and cream. Sometimes we push our abilities to the breaking point and have to reaccess. Like that line in a movie, " A man has to know his limitations" We don't know what they are till we push to the limit and you guys did for sure. Great Video keep them coming

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Much appreciated my friend!

[@Motoramblings]

Great video guys! I like the honesty, and really like the editing! Great clips of the tough riding, it looked exhausting!! Earned my subscription!😂😂

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Welcome to the channel and the wonderful compliments, we appreciate it

[@charlesr9110]

Thanks for your honesty about your ride. Not all days are great. You made the right decision to bail before you got hurt. Now you know your limits. Mount up some full knobbies, hit trails a bit less challenging, and keep up the adventure!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Wonderful words my friend, we really appreciate the encouragement

[@lukefish7562]

Guys have my respect. And made me laugh so I’m subscribed up. 🏍️💨

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Glad to have you my friend!

[@Motosportz]

Love the end of the vid. Good stuff.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thank you so much!

[@richardgitz2264]

This is one of my favorite videos you guys have done. Love how you roll and embrace the really good and the really bad, ride on! You guys rock.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thank you so much! This one was def tough!

[@richardgitz2264]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads It looked like a real bear, thing is you guys tried it. You learned a lot, don't beat yourselves up over it, next time you'll be more prepared.

[@EricStenback]

You guys did great. Sounds like it was a big adventure and a huge accomplishment in the fact you all made it back and didn’t give up and die in the woods. Try a WR250R. My husband loves his. I love my KLX250s although I don’tknow if my klx would do sand. Not that much sand. Sell the big bikes and get smaller ones. Don’t give up!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

That’s amazing advice! I’m thinking a little less weight and maybe a little more power, I still need the freeway ability to get to the dirt. Thank you for checking out our video!

[@mediocremichael]

Keep going, gents! Struggle is learning. Learning is hard. Doesn't mean you aren't fit for ADV riding. My opinion: get yourself a proper set of knobs, and try again! See you out there!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Well said, we sure learned a lot. First off, a 50/50 tire is not good enough!

[@kevinsterner9490]

Great video. Just found your channel and subscribed. Just watched Ben AKA Dork in the Road series on the BDR and it’s no joke. Similar to Arizonas in parts. I think you had the Dunlop Trailmax on the rear of one of the bikes. I think there are many better choices for sand/ silt. Keep the content coming. Only a year on an ADV bike you did great, especially on loaded Himalayan’s

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

You nailed it on the trailmax. I thought i was getting a 50/50 but after purchasing the dunlop guy at touratech said they we really 70/30, it was at that point that i knew i was screwed. Thanks for checking out our video my friend

[@Bumpy_Roads]

Thank you for showing the REAL sh*t!! I get so tired of these shined up BDR vids. Y'all did good!! Himalayans do enjoy napping though 😂

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Wow! This comment sure is spot on. I felt the same exact way when we were on the route

[@Realstealfan]

important lesson was learned. never trust the video. if it looks even mildly difficult on a gopro. Good luck!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Turns out you are correct, type 2 fun!

[@TheWinger1008]

Respect for you two. Sand sucks! No other way to put it. Maybe try a section without all the gear. Just to get some experience. You got this, it just takes practice. Hope you two continue your quest.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

thanks for the encouragement my friend, we def are going to practice more! its way too much fun. Hard to believe that folks actually enjoy the sand though!

[@paulmassey3972]

Keep at it guys! I am a new rider and not very good. I have had some terrible days on the bike. But it’s still better than a day at work! If you are ever in Colorado I would love to host you at my house and ride some of section 5 and 6 of the Colorado BDR with you!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Dude! That would be amazing!

[@wanderlpnw]

Great video! You just need a little training and a little more experience. It ain't easy even for seasoned riders. It's great you knew your limits. That's a skill itself.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Appreciate that, def shouldn’t have tried that on our first year with off road riding.

[@pixel406]

Great honest vid guy's, Trails here in the UK are definitely shorter with much more road sections to join them up. I use a Klx 250 with far more aggressive tires and far less kit. and spend plenty of time picking it up! 😆 Happy trails..

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

A tire change and weight reduction is in order! thanks for checking out our video

[@paulgomez7573]

You guys kick ass!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks my friend!

[@MeerkatADV]

The BDR's told everyone it's the third hardest route. Section 5 wasn't even the bad part. Good on you for making a go at it.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

I guess until now I wasn’t sure what everyone considered hard🤣🤣 def need to change some things before we try again

[@bentbars9366]

Now you know how I got my name Bentbars lol It was great riding with you, don't give up!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

It was great riding with you too my friend. Bdr angel!

[@aaronstory22]

A set of knobbies on the Himalayan make a huge difference. D sport or Motoz tractionators make a huge difference off-road. Hang in there and keep riding we have all been there!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Much appreciated! Still trying to decide if this bike is for me, not sure i want to buy more tires if I'm kickin it down the road. Thanks for checking out our video

[@graymangw6016]

I'm a himi guy too. I know the feeling and mine has a really nice fuel tune. I was doing some ATV trails and dropped my himi and had the same problem, handlebar went 45deg up. Ended up replacing it with a protaper bar. All the BDR stuff was crazy way to push through until you got to a safe place.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

We’ll have to look into those bars! Nice hearing from a fellow himi guy!

[@graymangw6016]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads I went with the seven eights ATV mid. If you already have risers you will want to go with the low.

[@ricknard9187]

We rode a ton of that around big lake (ish) a week ago. Had very little problems. I ride a 450 excr on tusk d sport and my buddy is on a 690 enduro r with street dual sport tires. I heard a guy say "floaty is fast". I have held on to that. When I feel like its it's too loose, I carry on. I would say tires, momentum, bike weight, confidence. There are a ton of bikes that do the same route. The first lay down you have in video was definitely speed related, too slow. I dont ride my klr off road, it's too heavy.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Solid advice my friend! As a new off-road rider it’s hard to remember to speed up when it gets scary but it’s the same logic I use on the road bike

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

Yeah, I've ridden all those routes on 17" pirelli track day tires. These guys haven't got a lot of dirt hours though, the struggle is real.

[@humech]

I'm super glad you were honest with yourselves and the camera! You listened to your instincts and called it at a good time, don't go beyond those limits it's never worth it. I regret a lot of riding choices that have left me with chronic injuries, better to ride another day. Anyway, yeah in my brief experience doing some WA bdr this year I gotta say these are not for beginner off road riders, intermediate at least! Been riding dirt for 18 years and I was having a blast but it wore me out a ton on my 450lb bike. Some other considerations: the Himalayan doesn't have a whole lot of suspension travel and I'm not sure how good the standing ergos are. Also looked like pretty street biased tires which are just going to be awful in the sand. Y'all got this in the future, thanks for sharing!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thank you for the wonderful comment, you are spot on! We have plans to give wabdr section a shot before this riding season is over. Thank you for your wisdom and acute observation on our underwhelming tires🤣🤣

[@humech]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads you're welcome! Best of luck, I'm super glad y'all seem still motivated to ride in the dirt. It is one of life's greatest joys 😁

[@tate2798]

How did the himalayan do on the bdr?

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

I would say that with someone more skillful controlling it, it would have done fine. We are inexperienced and had too much gear. We both had issues with the clutches which needed to be adjusted on the trail, but we made it out alive

[@TouratechUSA]

Good effort out there. The ORBDR is no joke!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Seriously! Thanks for checking out our video, you guys are the best!

[@ironmanbox]

Those Trailmax (or similar) tires would not have been my choice for that BDR. Thanks for sharing. It helps everyone in the ADV community.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Yeah, what i'm learning is that the trail max tire is not correctly branded but even if it were a true 50/50 it would have not been up for the task!

[@kevlash41]

Great "reality" vid, guys. You have a new subscriber.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Welcome to the channel my dear friend! Much appreciated

[@jasonmellor8069]

At least nobody got seriously hurt and you’re able to ride home it’s a win-win.🎉

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Agreed. Making it home safe is def a priority!

[@5050BOOMRR]

I sympathize We did the BDR-X in May They had a road closed sign, we didn’t turn around, then hit 3-miles of mud due to road construction as much as 6” deep Fortunately it was down hill the whole way, but we we’re basically out of control The stress combined with the exertion finished us a day early

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Oh man, that sounds tough! Thanks for checking our struggle🤣

[@mototurkey5289]

Found you guys through Travis @EAM. Just subbed. I think your honesty and openness is most impressive. I believe a more capable bike improves things a lot, but if you off-road much, the toughest enemy is weight. Go light on bike, belly, and gear and fun factor increase significantly. Dork ITR said it best during his WABDR experience. BDRs are about the ride not the camping. If you’re out to enjoy camping, maybe just go moto-camping and that way you can focus on that experience versus the hard ride.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

solid advice! welcome to the channel. Yeah, we learned the hard way that the camping gear we pack on the baggers does not belong on the off ride bike!! honesty is all we know, we were really down when we filmed the sitting scenes and i doubted even using it. I'm glad i did, we've received some amazing tips and feedback from our trip. I'm very humbled and grateful

[@lj1177]

You guys just jumped to the top of my favorite motorcycle KZbinrs!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

This is the comment I needed this weekend, thank you my friend!

[@zeelastman]

You dont know until you try and good on you guys for giving it a good try. I have a fe501s and my buddy has a klx300, they might fit your needs better as they are much lighter.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

I will def be looking into different bike options. We are hooked on the dirt at this point!

[@hogwildmotorcycleadventures]

Sand is hard! And if you don’t have experience with it or practice on it, it can seem impossible. Thrust is key. Steady and smooth makes it tolerable. Find a place you can practice that is flat and has varying levels of depth of the soft sand. An inch of soft sand behaves so differently from deep sand. And do this practice while unloaded and with lots friends! Bret Takcs has a recent and very good sand video with a Ducati DesertX in Oklahoma. I’ve ridden in that very place where Bret filmed that video as part of a training program. Soggy Bottom takes no prisoners. You will need help to escape. Suggest finding a training class that focuses on sand for a day if you can. Being in Oregon, places north and south of you offer training.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Super good suggestion, I def need more training. I’ll check out that video!

[@DorkintheRoad]

DUDE this one blew up! That's awesome.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks my friend, appreciate the share. Nice constellation prize considering our struggle. Feels good having so much support and solid feedback from the adv community

[@arnohag1]

Wow, what I thought all of the USA was on the BDR that you were riding. Good to see you put the good with the bad. We all aren't Dakar racers.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

This cracked me up! thanks for checking out our video my friend

[@4tech69]

Good video guys. Don't take this too hard. Sand is a birth on any bike but a dirt bike. Some more than others of course. It's a part of the learning experience I guess. Cool ride to food cup!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Much appreciated! Still curious how the big gs’s from the bdr films make it through that stuff!

[@RamblingRuters]

First time watching your channel, but I’ll say as someone who lives in Arizona you have to get comfortable being uncomfortable in the sand, practice, practice in it, no better way to get your confidence up as I learned. Highly recommend to watch Brett Tkacs vids on stuff, awesome ADV instructor! Also, faster is better in sand, at least 20mph+ (2nd gear) slower is your enemy that front tire will sink in & eat it everytime. Great learning experience, but please get out there & get some training & practice, can’t stress that enough, enjoy gents.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Great suggestions and thanks for checking out our video my friend!

[@mattbillenstein]

Try knobbies - those tires are terrible. Ditch the hard panniers, go with lighter soft bags and try to take less stuff. Maybe - hotels. Then ride that section again - keep your feet on the pegs and stand in the hard stuff. I think you'll have a much easier go - if not, you probably need to ditch adv bikes and get capable dual sports.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Wise words my friend. I do think a redemption run is in order!

[@mattbillenstein]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads will make great content either way ;)

[@JimJNebraska]

I love those Himalayans. I miss mine. But you guys need some Dunlap d606 on the back and some pirelli knobbies on the front. It will change everything.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

That’s a great tip and the same thing we talked about.

[@65BAJA]

You tried. That's what counts. Take what you learned and come back stronger next year.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Well said my friend!

[@waynemccurdy3899]

You guys look exhausted. I can only imagine how much it sucks that this adventure fell so far below expectations. But think of what a great story you have to share now. Like they say “what doesn’t kill you ….”

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Yeah man, type 2 fun for sure!

[@krisfant4749]

Loved the video! I hope to hear how section six goes when you go back out! How are the bikes? All fixrd up?

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

We are looking forward to it! Adjusting the cables seem to help. I’m heavy on the clutch and I imagine the heat had something to do with it. Thanks for checking out our video💚

[@AndrewAtkinson1]

I just came here to see some lads fall off some bikes. Did not disappoint.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks for checking out our video!

[@AndrewAtkinson1]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads I've ridden sand like that on my Africa Twin and did not enjoy the experience, though I'm told that faster is better to a point.

[@RonOrud]

I did the same thing last year on a local group ride. Dropped my KLR650 and broke a rib. Rode to the capground, then road home 90 miles the next day. Put the bike up for sale. Then bought a KTM 390 adventure because it isnt top heavy. Better power too. I havent been on anything other than gravel so im not sure the rest of the surfaces yet. Need practice first.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Oh man, that really hurts, glad you didn't give up the hobby. How does that 390 do for you at freeway speeds?

[@RonOrud]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads it is way faster and more solid in the highway than the KLR. I have a size 16 riding boot and I could never use them on the KLR. When I test drove the 390, it was a simple adjustment. I enjoy this bike so much more. You have to run high revs. But once you know that, it’s great. (The low end is a bit lean, but a $150 FuelX Lite tuner makes it perfect). The suspension is so much better. My KLR was squishy.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

@@RonOrud helpful info. I’m not sure the himi will ever be the machine I hope it is

[@RonOrud]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads You should test ride the 390. I couldn’t stop grinning when I rode it. Felt like I was a teenager again. The Himi has more clearance, but I can’t argue with my big grin. Big rock moto did a nice review on it.

[@craigsturman6661]

I wouldn't beat myself up about this. There will be times of the year where that trail would be a lot of fun. Those side by sides do NOT help the trails at all. I hate that deep powder crap! I had a day like this on the WYBDR when we had to re-route. I can't tell how how many times I dropped my T7 in that crap!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks for the commiseration Craig, your T7 would have been nice on this trip!

[@alanwalls3117]

Great video!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks my friend, means a lot!

[@OneOldManRiding]

Sorry about your ride guys. That sand was certainly going to be a #&@$@ on a heavy bike. From the looks of it you may have been plowing sand with those Himalayans! - Frank

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Should of had a scoop on the front end!!

[@tonyfisher4113]

Your gear is loaded to high on the bikes. Tires and skill level. Don't give up guys practice, improve your skills not just riding but loading your bikes setting up your suspension and better prep to know exactly where you are at all times on the course. Great content that will help many getting into the sport. Chins up rubber side down. Get lots of practice unloaded on various terrains to build your skills and find the limits of your bike. Thumbs up and subscribed

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Well said my friend, thanks for the wise words and encouraging comments, much appreciated

[@3LMills]

Glad you guys survived uninjured! Just did Section 1 and it cost me a clutch 😂 had to bail on 2 and head home. Made me feel better to see this glad I'm not the only crazy person!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Yeah man! The bdr documentary’s don’t seem to stress the difficulties. Saying it’s challenging is one thing, showing the struggle is another

[@3LMills]

@@OldFriendsandNewRoads I recorded most of it I'll send you the link when I edit it. Thought I saw you guys heading south on 31 today.

[@ShawnPecht]

First a shout out for the organizers of this route! The ORBDR movie didn't show how long and difficult that section is. I also had to bail in that section going south. The riders in the movie had a support vehicle following them so possibly they didn't have the extra 50lbs of food and camping gear? I have rode the WABDR and IDBDR and they are a great route for all skill level riders. Skip the ORBDR unless you like sand in sections 1, 2 and 5

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Super advice! I think we will dabble in wabdr next, maybe better suited for our skill level

[@crosstowntrains]

You guys kept it real! Keep chugging away.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thanks my friend!

[@steppenwo1fsgl244]

Head high guys, you did amazing and managed to push through, always lessons learned. A good nights sleep and things feel better in the morning, the RE maybe not the best tool for the job, but imagine if you do it again on a more suitable bike you will crush it!!!!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

That’s maybe the conclusion we are coming to, having thoughts on dumping money into upgrades but maybe it’s just the wrong bike

[@BenH80]

That's a lot of work fellas!! Deep sand sucks! What an adventure though. Might be super fun after a good rain? Any thoughts on your tires? Curious what you rode and your opinion of their performance. Thanks for the great video!

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Eric was running stock tires, maybe a 90/10 at best. I was running Trailmax missions. These tires have been amazing up to this point. Anything super loose and fluffy they fell short. I'm def in the market for something more knobby. Thanks for checking out the video my friend

[@BenH80]

Yeah buddy! First video of yours I have come acrossed. Subscribed! Thanks for the section 5 preview of ORBDR!

[@BenH80]

Oh an I rode perelli MT21 tires in deep sand on a ride from Oregon to Cabo and I do t think it mattered what tires we had, the sand is tough!

[@sganzerlag]

I wish you guys hadn't gone straight for one of the most difficult BDRs. This is the kind of rude awakening that often times makes people quit riding entirely. Take it easy and go for the more beginner-friendly routes first. Remember that the main objective is to have fun. It's really really hard to have fun when you end up somewhere that is way above your comfort zone. Best regards from Brasilia, Brazil.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Those are very wise words! We learned a lot on this trip and are very excited to keep going. Brazil? That’s super cool, thanks for checking out our video😊

[@transam55cant]

O

[@transam55cant]

P

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

None of these routes are difficult, they're roads for gawd sakes.

[@maximusmiles8435]

Go ride the dunes. It will help with your skill. Learning to let the bike move independent of you is a trick. once you get it, it will never leave you. But it does take some practice. Luckily here in the NW there is a lot of dunes, and sand for you to practice on. Trying to learn on a fully loaded bike, is a fools errand. You did well considering.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

That’s great advice my friend, sand is def on the list of skills we wish to obtain!

[@ArizonaAdv]

A good thing is in Oregon there are more areas to disperse camp . No need for campgrounds. In Oregon you need full knobbies . The type of bike makes a huge difference . I ride it on my XR does great . Don't give up you will regret it maybe a different bike though . Keep going ""RIDE ON""

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Yeah, oregon has it all!!

[@saddlebag4097]

Definitely wrong tires and possibly wrong bikes for doing a BDR... A cheap DR650 or klr650 would probably suit you better. Too much gear... giant sleeping pad lol it all adds up. More aggressive tires will help a ton and i hope you guys don't give up i want to see more. Also when you watch other videos and the other guys make it look a lot easier are they riding Himalayans? I think this is a great addition to your channel so i hope you keep trying the adventure bikes.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

You are not wrong on all front. We will def keep on, we are hooked on dirt at this point?

[@nscott26]

Klr 650 is 30-60 pounds HEAVIER than the Himalayan, you guys need a light weight dual sport for sand/silty stuff. Klx 300 or crf 300 rally or Honda 450rl.

[@jasonince5393]

Motoz Rallz tires would have helped a bit, and also a more offroad capable bike with a bit more power. Great effort, great video. You got to share this together, so there's that.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Type 2 fun right?! I'm struggling with which bike i would consider. The himi's aren't it

[@addictedtobedrock5282]

I couldn’t believe the dude on the quad, could clearly see you were having difficulty and didn’t even back the damn thing up.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Right?!?! That whole group was a piece of work!

[@Western-Wild]

We live near this section and have had friends crash in that area as well. Honestly the last section of it isn't even a legally traversable road. I know why RideBDR wanted to make this work so badly, but they really just need to encourage everyone to do the easier work around on the old Santiam Wagon Road.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

I completely agree!

[@MeerkatADV]

Funny, I didn't have any problems with it.

[@OneManTrail]

15:30 sums up everything, and I say that without an ounce of being mean. If you’re gonna pack that heavy, at least put it on a 70+ hp bike. You’ll be happier even if at first it sounds more intimidating. Thanks for the honest video.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

I totally agree, no offense taken. One of those things that you can't know what you don't know until you've lived through it. Thanks for checking out the video

[@jonasbaine3538]

Perfect job for 701 enduro. 75hp under 400lbs. Twins are heavier.

[@EricStenback]

You’re funny enough that it looked like you all had a great time when you were sitting there talking about it. 😅 atleast you have a story to tell… way to make it back though.

[@OldFriendsandNewRoads]

Thank you, that’s very kind. Def type 2 fun!!