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World Record attempt AK/Ushuaia Sept 1 start
Don't know if this is the right place to post this but 3 guys will be attempting to break the Guiness World record for motorcycle travel between Prudhoe Bay, Alaska and Ushuaia.
http://www.34for40.org/ Realistically, I don't give them a viable chance of breaking the existing record of 35 days. It consists of 3 guys, unknown to each other prior to this attempt. The "main" organizer of this trip has NO experience whatsoever in dual sport travel, international travel, 1000 mile days on a motorcycle, border crossings, travel in rain/snow/100 degree temps, corrupt officials, etc. His motorcycle experience consists of owning a 1976 Harley Davidson and an older 40's Harley Davidson knucklehead. Unquestionably, the event organizer is VERY talented on ferreting out sponsorships/donations. Not sure what bikes the other guys are riding, but the main fellow will be on a BMW GS650 Dakar. Not his own bike, but one donated by BMW Atlanta. Little info on the experience of the other riders is known. Lets hope they have at least some international riding experience. I wish them the best. |
They will need to bank a very high miles-per-day average before hitting Central America.
Let's see if they can do that. Riding at night on poor roads is plainly dangerous. Eventually...something happens. |
Mileage
It's about 6500 miles from Deadhorse to Guatemala. This section has the best roads.
Then another 1400 or so to Panama City. I would want to arrive PC within 12 days. Fresh tires pre-arranged in San Antonio or Dallas and then again in PC. I don't know from which city in South America they plan to start. Either Venezuela or Colombia would be the real top-to-bottom show. Ecuador would be a major fudge. |
I thought Guiness had 'closed the book' on this record, it'll belong to the current holders irrespective of wether anyone beats it.
Should we tell'em before they leave? Or maybe pin a note on the sign in Ushuaia for them (evil grin). |
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Quoting: "Broke the Guinness World Record" is still viable as a marketing tool. 20 years from now it may not be worth squat. They closed their CT office years ago, with only the UK office now handling all inquires. |
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How much on the SA section...Chile/Argentina? |
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Personally, I'd take a big GS like my worn out 1150. It'll run (used to :)) 100 all day and eat topes pretty well. Extra fuel, of course. From what I can tell, they've chosen to run Hwy 15 and 200 down thru Mexico. The cuotas would be much better, entering at Laredo. The mileage would also be less. All excess topes produced in Mex were placed on Hwy 200. :) I wouldn't want to be close behind them on the Central America crossings, as they might be shelling out big $ to expedite things. Maybe somebody can pipe in regarding the SA section. I don't know it. ...arm chair quaterbacking is so easy....:) I do appreciate the planning aspect. |
Best of luck to them. They're living their dream, riding their ride, for whatever the reason. Monday morning quarterbacking is the cowards way out. Sua Sponte 2/75.
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I also think the R1100/1150/1200GS would be a bit better choice than a 650. But i think it's mainly the rider that decides the final goal. Most of people tend to think it's the bike that rides for them, but any bike can do it if there's a right rider on it. Just like a 250cc bikes have done serious iron butt achievements or a BMW HP2 win over 80kg less weighting single cylinders on very difficult European Cross country mud tracks, so it's like kind of 25% bike and 75% rider issue.
Racing proven dual-sport engines in the real conditions they're made for? The only ones i know are the BMW boxer (the Dakar overall podiums and multiple stage wins, multiple current european Cross-Country series offroad endurance podiums (2-nd ger overall last year!), Baja podium, Erzberg Rodeo winner and Pikes Peak Hillclimb in their class) and KTM 950/990 v-twin (Dakar, Erzberg). No other big trailie have comed close to those achievements in current modern date. Those bikes are the BMW HP2 (RR on Dakars) and the KTM 950 SuperEnduro, but the same engines are used on the BMW GSes and KTM Adventure series with very little difference. It says alot about the bikes, so there's not much competition from other makes to these two brands if you really want to choose totally racing proven bike for such usage. It's the big trailies we're talking about. Anyways, this is a dangerous game to beat those records - good luck and don't take too much risks! What else there is to say... |
As we all know, bike choice is personal and a free bike is better than no bike. And so what if the Guinness book of records recognises something or not? If you do it in the fastest time you have er...well, done it in the fastest time.
Beyond that, as most of recognise, it isn't 'adventure' biking as we know it. Still, it's what they want to do so good luck to them, just cos it's not my thing doesn't mean I'm going to criticise them for it. With a world full of people who's greatest dream is to spend Sunday on the couch and watch, 'mind-numbing, spirit crushing game shows'; who's greatest desire is to conspicously consume to a greater level than their neighbours, one could argue these guys are perhaps closer to us than some would wish to belive. "We're not so different, you and I..." Matt :) |
Rules for the 4 wheel (car/truck) read that time stops when the vehicle is delivered for shipment and restarted after it's received/cleared on the other continent.
To run it otherwise could allow dollars to decide a winner by arranging for expensive, private freight flight. I got a quote for this very thing from FEDEX several years ago. Only $75,000.....but it was a full sized vehicle.:) The Guinness Rules also had some stipulations regarding average speed over a distance....and speeding violations. |
Yes!
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I have misjudged you previously; I agree wholeheartedly with this excellent post of yours. Good stuff... Good roads denis brown |
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"August 28, 2006
Atlanta, Georgia, USA 8:42 P.M. EST Although our attempt at the record starts in four days, Team 34 for 40 will be heading for our respective departure airports in less than 48 hours. I guess that means it’s almost time to pack! Seriously, I still have stuff all over the living room. My wife may not be too excited about this trip but she will be happy to have the living room back together. " ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- I checked the site this morning and they are packing. Getting ready to leave in less than 48 hours. My best guess is that they will fly out on Wednesday, arrive on Thursday, get a good nights sleep and get on the road first thing Friday. No time for delays. |
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Unless its a Guzzi tractor, a motorcyle is a thing of beauty... |
flying gringo, off topic question.
since you aparently know about guzzi's and i'm more into jap bikes. a mate of mine has a guzzi V7 and he noticed some weeks ago that there is a smal hole in the bottom of his bikes crankcase, its right in front of his rear wheel and it leaks oil, a lot. i have seen it and it looks like something made with a dril, so obviously its meant to be there. but what is it? should it have a plug? and should it leak oil right in front of his rear wheel? he doesnt own a manual and can't find out so maybe you know. |
i"ll try them, thanks, and i always assumed KLE 500 are made by a ancient and eldrich sect of zen monks on the slopes of mount Fuji.
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[QUOTE=mollydog]Denis,
That IS a Guzzi! :thumbup1: Look it up. Its one of the first uses of their Vtwin. I believe its from the mid to late 50's or early 60's. Its a military vehicle. Very rare now. I've seen one in person. Hey, anyone want to buy a nice, original V7 Sport? There is a nice one for sale on Craig's list here in the Bay area. Not cheap. Good investment? Patrick[/QUOTE Yes I know - thats why folk make the "agricultural" reference. Actually I quite like some Guzzis; but I would prefer they werent Italian build quality. |
Do us all a favor and Don't start spareing on political or religious grounds.
In a forum this size there will always be someone with a different opinion, and someone always takes a fence...or gets hurt... :nono: |
Here it is. The eve of the departure from Prudhoe Bay. Temperatures tomorrow will be approx 32 degrees at 7:00 am. Road conditions on the 414 mile gravel laden Dalton Highway are rated as "FAIR". No rain in the forecast.
Looks like the trio of riders caught a break and got about the best weather they could hope for at this time of year (no rain). Never having ridden the Dalton Highway, I am completely unaware of what constitutes a good days travel. Some of the travelogues I have read suggest making it across the length of the Dalton Highway (414 miles of gravel) is a major accomplishment to do in 1 day. I wish the riders well. Even though I don't think they stand a snowballs chance in hell of breaking the record, I find myself still wanting them to at least make a good showing. |
Dalton Hwy.
It is a piece of cake "when it is dry". Just did it in June. Going up, it was raining and snowing. Took 12 hours from Yukon Crossing to Prudhoe Bay (360 miles) coming back 2 days later after the road dried out, same ride took only 6 hours. Made it all the way to Fairbanks in 8. If they catch the break (and it sounds like they might) they probably can do the 1000. There is a lot of daylight still BUT that is only the FIRST day. They have to do 33 more in a row. They need a LOT of breaks. Good Luck (and I mean it).
Rick |
Tok = 700 miles
Destruction Bay = 950 miles |
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The key being that the rider(s) have worked up to multiple 1000 mile days. Unlike Mollydog, I don't think they would have a better chance on a FJR/ST/RT. A GS1200, V-Strom (1000 or 650), Tiger, or Ulysses with 10gal of fuel would give them a better chance. All will run 90+ "all day" and are easier to run fast on gravel. The V and GS are gaining ground in the LD world. The Uly is getting a work out by some. FWIW, I'd like my chances a lot more than theirs. I'm pretty sure I could be from Ak to Mex in about the time it takes them to reach the lower 48. |
Three Bikes Attempting Record.
I find myself curious about what the plan is, if one of the three bikes has a major breakdown. Will they ALL stop or will the other two wave "goodby". There isn't much time for "down time".
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The Ride not necessarily the Cause!
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The F650 will run 90 all day long, but mpg drops intothe 30s.
Does anybody know if they're running auxilary tanks? Screwing with video/audio, uploading at the end of each day (from where?), website upkeep....gonna be busy..and tired. |
Day 1 in the books.
No updates. Did they spend the night at some location where internet access is still 30-80 years into the future? Did they experience problems and patiently cool their heels on a deserted highway? Did they ride throughout the night in hopes of getting ahead of schedule? Is no news good news? The mystery continues |
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Adding fresh oil will mean longer oil change intervals. :) |
Day #3 on the road.
(For the record, I could care less about the reasons/motives for this ride, I am only interested in the ride) Still no news. No updates. No GPS location (it still directs one to Prudhoe Bay). Surely, these guys made it out of the parking lot and at least managed to get a few miles down the road. I hope these guys ride better than they keep people informed. The lack of communications has me concerned about their well being. |
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As much as the leader has hyped this venture, I would have expected a good comm start to build press along the way, impress sponsors, etc. Could be a busted leg in Fairbanks...or catching a nap in Dawson Creek. |
The Ride Only!
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Lack of communications. Maybe they are not finding "time" in their 600 to 1000 mile days. Rick |
What??????????????????
[QUOTE=Lone Rider]They had the weather.
As much as the leader has hyped this venture, I would have expected a good comm start to build press along the way, impress sponsors, etc. Could be a busted leg in Fairbanks...or catching a nap in Dawson Creek. Who cares about sponsors. ? Forget these jerks, willya? Have nothing to do with them...be your own man............................... |
Supposedly.....they had some problems with being stuck in some mud on day one and are riding to catch up. No real facts here.
My route would have been crossing at Portal, with Minot just down the road and at the 3,000 miles mark. |
Where in the world is .......
Silence. Maybe they took a wrong turn and rode off the edge of the earth. It IS flat ya know!!
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Whitehorse
I just read on the website they were in Whitehorse yesterday morning, Donny was having a fork problem. Hope they can get it fixed soon!
Harold |
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Yep, on their front page. Where did they stop on day 1 and 2? |
Ok...:)
I enjoy the planning and logistics involved. Have these guys made their North American route plans public? Where are they planning to change tires? Did they start with mild knobs or OEM tires? Is a change of chains planned? Did they ride the bikes up to Deadhorse before the start? |
3 days and 1200 miles.
More importantly, Whitehorse is about 1100 miles from Deadhorse. I think they need to "pick it up" a bit.
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More info would keep us entertained. :) I wish them the very best, but it would be more exciting if soneome (wife?) could post the down-n-dirty stuff. |
"Hooked" on this saga!
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4 days in the can
659 miles per day average
Phoenix is 1400 miles away. Will the bikes be serviced in Phoenix? If so, what will be done? Which border crossing? Did they obtain permits and pesos before the start? Cuota roads.....or Land of the Topes? |
Torture by Motorcycle
I've met and talked to Julia and Kevin Saunders, the current World Record holders who also hold the fastest east to west time. 19 days I think for that one. Kevin and Julia are real Motorcyclists who run a M/C training school and holiday company, taking folks who are too timid (or lazy) to do it without all the backup being done for them. (£16k that's $29k and bring your own bike :eek3: see http://www.globebusters.com/index1.html) Kevin is also an instructor at the BMW off road facility in Wales. So no comparison with the trio we're all following.
Having seen the video of their record breaking trip, I have renamed it 'Torture by Motorcycle' because that's what it looked like to me, and these were two people who have years of experience and spent a year planning. Anyway, someone merely getting on, and riding off on a bike helps me forgive a lot of things, good luck to them, (but I have a sneaking urge to know about all the things that are going wrong):rolleyes2: |
Last post
From the 34/40 whatever it is web site
Friday: When Marin spoke to him at 8 PM EST, they were stuck in the mud, their visors were covered in dirt encrusted ice, and they still had 700 miles to go. She said he sounded very happy. Seem to be some ok sort of guy in there somewhere if he's enjoying it, wonder what, say, day 20 will sound like?? I hope he's still enjoying it, because, well, it's what we all want to, or will be or are doing ourselves; out on the road on 2 wheels. Out of the saddle and behind a desk quite possibly he'd make me vomit, he's pushing this like only him and Moses ever went into the wilderness. I truly hope he will find out what he's made of and it will be a positive thing, not a 'bloody 'ell, look at me, ain't I great' sort of thing. |
New Entry on 34for40 website.
They just posted a new entry from Phoenix. They sound both "up" and "down"!
It is going to be real interesting. Sleep (or lack thereof) , sounds like a big thing with a couple of them. I noticed that one of them "went on ahead" when the other two had some difficulties. Dunno!! Rick |
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Did they not all start with fresh tires? Was a tire change pre-planned? Again, da chains - is there a plan? The radiator problems... Gotta feed and brush your horse... Are tunes and wired communications a higher priorty than the steeds? Donny will probably sleep while work is being done to his bike - mental and physical health is more important than a local news blurp. Do they need a day off from riding to rest and regroup? That could be a smart decision. Is there a 'pace' planned for Mexico? El Paso should mean running the cuota highways. What time of day will they arrive at the Guatemalan border - and at which crossing? 1 hour or a 5 hour ordeal? What other maintenance has been pre-planned, and where? It's not a ride-in-the-park as some people assume and promote ahead of time, before having ever looked into the mouth of the beast. :) Go guys, go. Be safe. My money is on Donny.... |
4500 miles completed.
Average after 7.5 days = 600 miles per day. Now entering Mexico. |
The latest update (sept 9 in the morning) reported that they are 2 days behind the current world record holders. This puts things into perspective.
I wish the updates would continue to state where they stand in relation to the current world record holders. I suspect the riders are starting to realize the enormity of this journey and the challenge they are about to endure. My opinion of this adventure quest is the riders have there work cut out for them if they want to make the record books. Being 2 days behind after 8 days of riding certainly is not where the riders had hoped to be. I wish the riders well and hope there journey is a safe one. |
What services were done on the bikes in Phoenix?
3x total cuota run through the length of Mexico would feed ocho perros por veinte anos. :) Which Guatemala border crossing is planned? Will they lane split and pass aggressively....or will they suck the breath of The Chicken Bus. :) To El Salvador or not to El Salvador, that is the question.... |
Is Dave now riding w/o Donny and Ryan?
I'm having a tough time reading between the lines. |
Getting VERY Interesting!
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How bout them tires, Jimmy Ray?
How's your chain hanging? ["His bike is fine except it starts to over heat when he goes fast."] What is fast? Through Day 9 = 619 miles per day average Has he now run the fastest and safest roads - with the best facilities - that he will ever have on this trip? Is there a new fan waiting for him behind some banana tree up ahead? I'm almost out of toilet paper. It's pouring rain; no shoulder to be found on this unlighted 2 lane road tonight and I think that was a big black cow I just swerved around. Now, where did I put those tire-irons? |
Dave is unquestionably struggling. His lack of experience in this type of quasi-Ironbutt ride is beginning to show. An Ironbutt type ride like this is every bit as much of a mental challenge as it is a physical challenge. Maybe moreso.
Dave surely must be beside himself knowing that his 110% efforts are still resulting in being 2 days behind schedule. The next few days are critical. I suspect they need to slice some time off the current record holders pace, which obviously was a blistering one. 2 days behind in 8 days travel is, IMHO, a lot to make up, especially now that they have exited the highways of Canada/US. Not insurmountable, but the tables had better turn.....soon...... if they expect to grab the record. |
Is he committed to finishing this run even if a new record will not be set?
Has he set a cut-off time that if reached, the bike will not be air freighted to Colombia? If he's never ridden local roads south of the border (not cuotas), he could be in for a high voltage shock. I wish there was more information being shared about the bike, it's maintenance and planned services. Ride safe, Mr Dave. |
After the Minatitlan update....
Would give him 500 miles for the day, about 400 to the La Mesilla crossing...should be able to make Huehue tomorrow. I think Comitan will be his last ATM before the border. A 4 wheel vehicle escort across Guatemala would be slower than just riding briskly (making 3 lanes out of 2). Not sure exactly what they have planned. Border help would be very good, but La Mesilla ain't a bad one. Involvement from others will help him from feeling a l o n e. |
I don't know if shipping transit time is included in this record.
If it is, he has a critical window with Colombian customs and the upcoming weekend. He could be looking at starting the SA leg sometimes on the 18th. If it's not included, the weekend could be a real blessing for some needed rest. |
Yep, does he have someone standing by so that there's no delay in getting the bike on a mid day Thu flight? Is his sponsor handling this? Will the carpet be rolled out in Bogota?
It will impress me if he's able to clear 3 borders today and hit Costa Rica. Nicaragua: 289 Costa Rica: 373 Panama, to PC: 281 Does anybody have solid mileages for the South American countries? How many more record attempts will it be before we see: Handlers stationed at all borders, escorts for large cities, private plane waiting to take off with the bike, pre-paid customs officials, pre-arranged pit crew stops with motorhome for sleep and food......on and on...:) A game.... |
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Where are they now
Anyone figure out what happened to Donny and Marie?:confused1:
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His website has been updated
Some journal entries were added.
There were no new tires waiting for him in Panama. It sounds like because they were ordered/requested, they were assumed to be there - without follow up communication and confirmation. Could there have been other 19/17 tires available in Panama City? Dunno. He's now planning to get new tires in Bogota. Let's hope the dealer has them. The borders can be a real cluster fck and after his preplanning for Guatemala, I'm surprised he didn't have another rider there to watch his bike and gear at the other crossings; maybe even another local rider to help with getting papers processed. His experience entering Honduras does make for interesting reading. From a journal post: *[It has been almost two weeks since the start of the journey. I wish my partners could see me now. I am nearly laying the bike down in turns and look forward to them now. My riding ability has changed dramatically.]* He has guts, is an emotionally strong person, is quickly becoming aquainted with conditions outside of the USA, and I expect him to be a threat to the current record 'if' he can hook up with others along they way. I really believe that he will need help to pull this off. He will want new tires between Bogota and Ushiuia. Where? How will Bambi slay the Beast? Ride safe, Mr Dave. |
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Cartagena?????????
The globebuster web site says "the official start point for South America is Cartagena" :oops2: Why did Dave think he could just skip it?
His own web site indicates Cartegena on his weather track. His whole effort is compromised by what would appear to have been an extra days ride. He still had a VERY good shot at the record even with the back track. Idon't understand. And where the hell are Ryan & Donny? GO DAVE:clap: |
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And wonder why Yaviza isn't used. |
Today's the day
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Harold |
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Assuming he's an experienced LD rider, doesn't have bike problems, and has good timing with shipping, he could be in the very low 20 days. He may take the fluff outta this record where it will not be considered as a fanciful endeavor by others in the future. Do you know what Dick's planned route is? Where he will hit the continental US and also entering Mexico? |
Don't think Dick is a member of HU, at least I haven't seen any of his post. Come to think of it, I haven't seen many of his post on IBDone. When I posted the 34 for 40 website on the list, that's when he replied with his plan to leave on the 18th. He didn't go into any details about the route, or what he was riding. Like I said in my previous post, Dick keeps a low profile. If he makes any post I'll let you guys know.
Harold |
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:thumbup |
Update
Dick left for Prudhoe Bay this morning, plans to head for TDF Friday.
I Guess the weather will play into his actual departure date. Harold |
Why bother?
Hope you don't mind me asking but why would anyone try to make this a record? Wouldnt it be better to travel at usual speeds and see something of the countries?
Sounds a bit pointless if you ask me....:thumbup1: |
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It's a very different thing than travelng to experience the countries and the people. |
If there are book and movie deals available....and money, I'll go do this horrible thing. :)
Very serious.... |
Dick Fish ride
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Could you point me in the right direction thanks kella rwt (round world tour) |
"He didn’t get a valve job nor bearings replaced in his front forks."
Dave left Santiago where he was unable to get a valve job of bearings in his front forks ? How old is that bike ? Front fork bearings ? is that a wheel bearing, shocks ? |
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:) I'll try that. I think it only holds 2...? |
This challenge stuff sounds like a load of bollocks to me.
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Looks like Dave will hit the end on Day 29 or so.
Any news on Mr Fish? |
no news is good news
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Harold |
The Fat Lady burped. Congrats to Dave.
Now let's watch Mr Fish. |
I'll admit I didn't give Dave a snowballs chance in hell of breaking the record. Especially after he fell 2 days behind. My hats off to him.
Its obvious the border crossings, bike shipping times and bike repairs/maintenance times are FAR more important than long mileage days in the saddle. For better or worse, any future record attempt is pretty much relegated to a group effort, as this one has been. Not necessarily multiple riders, but certainly a team behind the scenes to pull strings at border crossings, bike shipments, repairs. In a way, I am saddened that an individual effort no longer stands a chance. Now, all efforts at bettering the world record need to be "group" efforts. |
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I'll disagree about this run requiring a group effort. Proper preplanning by somebody who understands what's needed is the key. Eliminate the unknowns. I don't believe that dealer support is needed. Maintenance can be planned ahead. Do you know the air freight schedules and contacts or not? Are you in contact with them or not? He has endurance and I congratulate him on a very fine show! Well done. |
yea well he finished
you should go to 34for40.org and check out how fast he did it(27 days). Give the man some credit. He was doing it for a charitable orginization. He raised money for a good cause and thats more than all you nay sayers.
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Colombia
Dick Fish was in Colombia yesterday, Oct 3rd. He left Prudhoe Bay Sept 21st. Dick seems to be making very good time. Not getting a lot of info, must be spending all his time on the bike!
Harold |
Please post any info about Mr Fish, links, etc that you may have.
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The low 20's is where the record would become a real challenge. |
In Rio Gallegos today!!!
:thumbup1: Hi All
Dick call me by sat phone this afternoon from Rio Gallegos, planning to reach TDF tomorrow?, Ushuaia 1 or 2 days? Wow!! He will call me again tomorrow, I will try to keep you updated.. I’m trying to arrange some logistics staffs to him. Regards Javier… www.DakarMotos.com |
Done!!!!
Hi all again
Dick make Ushuaia today!!!!…even after lost the first ferry this morning and the two custom crossings.:clap: I bet after a resting day/days he will come to BA, He said that still cold down there… Cheers Javier www.DakarMotos.com |
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How many days that give him for the record? |
He has the record!
From another list:
"Dick Fish arrived in Ushuaia at 1717 Atlantic time today, 21 days and 2 hours after leaving Prudhoe Bay, approximately 14,400 miles. All I can say is: Incredible! He's waiting for a tire to arrive before heading back north to Buenos Aires." :thumbup1: |
Waaay to go Dick! Never had any doubt you would hang some numbers that would be hard to beat.
Harold |
Record
Nice job Dick!
I knew there was some time left in the record but you really went all out! You 'da Man! I would truly hate to be the person that tries to break your time. Glad I got a three week start on you! David Gerulski "Former" TransAmericas World Record Holder |
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You're a gentleman, if such a thing is left in today's times. |
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