Mid Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route June 2024

FAQ’s

How Difficult is the MABDR:

The MABDR as the least technically difficult of of all the BDR routes. However, this route can change quite a bit due to weather conditions. Rain can create significant mud and can also swell the water crossings to the point of making them impassable. Loose gravel and crowned roads with drainage ditches along the sides can also be hazardous. There are also some optional “expert” sections that are rocky with some elevation changes. 

You should be comfortable riding your motorcycle on dirt surfaces before electing to do this ride. Practice on gravel and dirt roads would be recommended. Just being proficient on pavement is not sufficient experience for this ride. 

What type of motorcycle should I bring:

BDR routes in general are designed for larger adventure type motorcycles such as the BMW GS series and KTM adventure bikes such as the 790, 1090 and 1290. These bikes are suited to the MABDR terrain and can also handle the pavement stretches on the route. Smaller dual sport type bikes can be used such as the Husky 701, KTM, 350 or 500 along with Suzuki DRZ 400 or Kawasaki KLR 650 as examples. The handicap with these machines will just be handling the road miles on the trip but are certainly options for this ride. 

Are there sufficient gas stops:

There are many options for fuel on this route with the longest stretch without gas being 115 miles. If your motorcycle does not have that range then it is advisable to bring along additional fuel. We will gauge gas stops on the machine with the lowest range. That said, the Adventure adage is always, “Never Pass Gas”. 

Do I need a GPS unit:

As guides we will have the GPS tracks for this route and also supplement with a Butler map. If you would like to also have the tracks, you can download them at http://ridebdr.com/download-tracks/ or we can send you a copy of the file once you register for the tour. 

What tires should I use:

My philosophy is to use as aggressive a knobby as I can on my motorcycles since my concentration is primarily off road travel. I then deal with the compromise of riding these tires on pavement. If you ride primarily pavement you might opt for a bit less aggressive a tire such as a 50/50 street/off road tire. Be aware that may of these type tires are not sufficient for managing mud or sand very well. If you would like some recommendations on tires please feel free to contact me. 

Will my cell phone work on the route:

Do not count on it. We will be bringing a Spot Messenger unit for emergencies and will also have a Satellite phone along as well. There are spots where cell coverage is present but for much of the trip this will not be the case. 

What about tools:

We will carry tools to allow basic repairs and tire changes in case of flats. We carry extra tubes and tire plugs for tubeless tires and a air compressor. I would suggest bringing at least one tube (if bringing one tube, bring a 21″ tube since it can be used in the front or back in a pinch) even if you have tubeless tires. Also bring any specific tools you might need for your particular bike, such as tools that might be needed to remove the wheels. 

What about clothes:

PACK LIGHT!! The rule of thumb is to pack your clothes, then take them out and eliminate half of them. This is only partially humorous. Nothing hinders a pleasant, comfortable ride more than carrying excessive weight. 3 pair of underwear, 3 shirts, light pants and shoes to be worn at the end of the day, a couple pair of socks, toiletries and charging cords for your electronics. For your riding clothes include one pair of riding pants, riding coat, warm and regular riding gloves, boots (preferably motocross type), full helmet and eye protection (face shield or goggles). For the September ride it can get cool in the morning so a heavier layer might be wise as well as rain gear. 

We will be carrying a First Aid kit but if you have any specific medical needs, be sure to bring along anything that you would need for that condition. For example, if you are diabetic, be sure to bring snacks to maintain blood sugar along with your other supplies. You might also consider bringing a hat to help decrease the effect of the sun on hot, sunny days. 

What about food on the trip:

We will be having dinner each night with the first night being paid for by Emmaus. Breakfast will either be available at the hotel each morning or we will stop on the way out each morning. Lunch can vary between fast food stops, grabbing a quick bite at a fuel stop or a sit down lunch. You are encouraged to pack some snacks that you can eat during breaks each day. Bring water or some other type of rehydrating drink. You can carry this in a back pack type hydration unit or purchase water bottles and carry them on your bike.