So now I have a suitable bike, well nearly suitable, I do need to get the bike ready, so buying parts and accessories is the next task to do.
Now, there is a small UK company called Rally Raid Products, who have already done a lot of work with the BMW G310 GS making more suitable for off-road riding. They now make and sell bespoke parts for this small bike, so, onto there website I go and started to click the 'Add to cart' button.
My first purchase was their upgraded suspension that they developed with TracTive Suspension, and the rear shock I got was a slightly lower version too, helping my feet find the ground, in most but not all circumstances. Then I got there front suspension kit, which once I had removed the front forks, I sent them and the kit to FTR Suspension to have them professionally fit the upgrade kit so all I had to do, was re-fit the forks.
Next on the list was the stronger handles bars and custom made riser, and so whilst doing that job, I installed the BMW heated grips, to help keep my hands warm on the chilly days of riding that are expected during this trip, and finally, whilst working in this area, I fitted the Bark Buster hand guards, to offer some protection in the inevitable falls.
I decided not to go all out and buy the new heavy duty spoked wheels, but rather just fit the more off-road capable tyres on the stock cast wheels. Let's hope this is a decision I don't regret.
I also installed the BMW USB socket and my new Garmin Zumo XT2 sat nav, which has not been as good as I thought, with the first unit having to be sent back after one ride and the new replacement unit having another issue. Only time will tell. but this year, I do intend in taking a backup form of navigation as not to end up in the state of last years trip when the sat nav failed I had had nothing but the position of the sun to navigate by!
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