Any dual-sport bike will do. KLR-650 or any 400 c.c. style bikes are ideally suited for this type of trip.  All riding is on paved and singe-lane unpaved roads.  Some of these dirt roads may be challenging, therefore, better than average riding skill is required. We try and plan each trip so the participants have time to build their skills by tackling the more difficult routes later in the week.

If you plan to bring your own bike aggressive off road tires will be required. We have found the Pirelli MT-21 tire to be a great tire for this area. It is rated as a 60% off road and 40% on road.  D.O.T. approved Knobbies will do great on the dirt, but may provide a slight challenge on the pavement. Pirelli, IRC, Dunlop all make a good 50/50 tire that will give you the right handling for these roads. We will instruct each rider on the tire pressures and will inspect each bike for safety. We reserve the right to bench any bike that we feel is unsafe to protect the rider.

Good health is essential and reasonable physical fitness is an important asset on this type of trip. If you have any special needs please let us know before the trip starts so that we can provide extra  personnel or equipment.
 

Bike Upgrades

Many people have inquired about any recommended upgrades to bikes. The following are after market products that we use on our personal bikes.  A stock bike will do fine on these tours, but any one of these upgrades may help you along.
Most of these parts pertain to a KLR 650, but check your bike for any of the following:

1. Progressive Front Fork Springs
2. Full coverage Skid Plate
3. 14 Tooth Counter Sprocket or similar gear change
4. D.O.T approved Knobbies (Pirelli MT - 21 works well)
5. In line fuel filter
6. Bark-Busters or equivalent Bar/Hand Protection
7. After market Exhaust (Lightens up bike and increases low end power)
8. Progressive Rear Shock (To ride your bike to its full potential)
 

We have also seen problems with center stand’s.  On many KLR’s they have sheared off the foot pegs bolts. They also bottom out sometimes, so we do not recommended them.

One note: I have seen many problems with jetting.  I run a Big Gunn exhaust with standard jetting and the bike runs great. Keep in mind that in 10 miles we can go from 1,500 ft. up to 7,000 ft!

Riding Gear

1. Good Protective Dual-Sport Riding Boots
2. Full Face Helmet w/Goggles or Visor
3. Riding Pants
4. Camelback or similar Water Pack
5. Rain suit
 

There will be DUST, so plan accordingly

Support Truck

The support truck carries spare gas, oils, miscellaneous parts for the bikes.  It is also able to carry your personal belongings.  There is no need to load the bikes down with hard cases or  saddle bags, let your suspension work for you, not against you.  Tank bags work well to carry paperwork and cameras.

Contact Information

Rosen’s Rides
15280 E. Lotus Lane
Fountain Hills, Az 85268
1-800-549-7033
480-837-3819 (Fax)