Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Planning, Trip > TRAVEL Hints and Tips
newbie needs advice newbie needs advice
Register FAQ Calendar Today's Posts
TRAVEL Hints and Tips Post your TIPS to travellers - all the interesting little tidbits you learned on the road about packing, where to get stuff, and how to cope with problems. Please make sure the subject describes the tip clearly!
Photo by Marc Gibaud, Clouds on Tres Cerros and Mount Fitzroy, Argentinian Patagonia

25 years of HU Events


Destination ANYWHERE...
Adventure EVERYWHERE!




Photo by Marc Gibaud,
Clouds on Tres Cerros and
Mount Fitzroy, Argentinian Patagonia



Reply
Page 1 of 2 1 2
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 6 Mar 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Colorado/USA
Posts: 2
newbie needs advice
Hello all - just a quick question regarding what may be an insane trip idea. My friend and I are planning on riding from the US to South America, but have little riding experience. I actually have never ridden and he has a few times. We want to leave in two months and plan to take lessons, buy bikes, and ride as much as we can before we go. Question - can it be done, or should we have a lot more riding experience to try such a trip?

thanks!
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 6 Mar 2007
mollydog's Avatar
R.I.P.
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: california
Posts: 3,824
Is it vital you leave in two months? Are you?
__________________
Patrick passed Dec 2018. RIP Patrick!
Last edited by mollydog; 26 Mar 2009 at 04:40.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 6 Mar 2007
Sheikyabooty's Avatar
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: Bristol
Posts: 67
hi there jabon, I am in the same predicament. I am a new to riding bikes and want to go RTW but I have made the decision to put it off for a couple of years and get some serious training under my belt, not just onroad but offroad as well. For me I want to get as comfortable with my bike which I will be taking as much as possible.

As mollydog says S. America aint goin nowhere, so take your time enjoy the process of organising the trip and do it properly, you'll enjoy it more in the end.
__________________
“Not all those who wander are lost.” - J. R. R. Tolkien
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 9 Mar 2007
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Victoria, Australia
Posts: 46
Practice makes perfect
Riding a bike is an art form and takes years to develope, the news is full of stories about riders with not enough experience who come unstuck. As has been mentioned, grab some small bikes and have a go at all kinds of riding and see how you progress, you may decide that it is the right way to go or, you might absolutley hate it.

Remember this, ride carefully, they're all out to get you.
__________________
What ever, lets go...
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 9 Mar 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Colorado/USA
Posts: 2
thanks!
thanks all! that's what i was guessing, but good to get some feedback
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 10 Mar 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Montreal, Canada
Posts: 2
Ride to learn - learn to ride
Must go against the grain.... The only way to gain experience is by riding. If you are aware of your limitations and respect the bike you'll be on, I think your trip could be a wonderful accelerated course in riding.

One suggestion... get a good bike, but one you won't mind getting scratches on... just in case.
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 10 Mar 2007
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: USA
Posts: 992
There are riding skills and then there's also good judgement.

Some things are learned faster than others...

If you have the latter, good judgement and common sense, go where your heart leads you.
Last edited by Lone Rider; 10 Mar 2007 at 02:41.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 10 Mar 2007
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: montana usa
Posts: 547
Non Judgemental
When your time on this mortal coil is done you will not regret the things you did do only the things you didn't do.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 10 Mar 2007
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Calgary, AB.
Posts: 22
Bill Ryder says -
Quote:

When your time on this mortal coil is done you will not regret the things you did do only the things you didn't do.
That pretty much sums it up, so go have fun.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 10 Mar 2007
palace15's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: LONDONISTAN, England
Posts: 1,034
Thumbs up Go for it
Quote:
Originally Posted by Barce View Post
Must go against the grain.... The only way to gain experience is by riding. If you are aware of your limitations and respect the bike you'll be on, I think your trip could be a wonderful accelerated course in riding.

One suggestion... get a good bike, but one you won't mind getting scratches on... just in case.

Agree 100% Now just plan and go...all the best
__________________
'He who laughs last, was too slow to get the joke'
Never confuse the map with the journey.
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 10 Mar 2007
quastdog's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Chiangmai, Thailand
Posts: 509
Read this first!
You shouldn't listen to anyone's opinion on this question. Fact is, most of us our highly biased in our opinions and full of shit. Only you can decide. Since you're in the US, you should get this book.

http://www.amazon.com/Proficient-Mot...3561270&sr=1-2

David Hough, the author, has been studying and writing about motorcycle safety, riding proficiency and riding skills for many years - considered one of the leading authorities in the U.S. This book won't teach you how to ride - that's for the training courses that are available. What it provides is statistics and insight into your ability to remain safe, or to avoid accidents, depending on your training, experience and other factors you employ in your riding - as well as the odds that "shit just happens".

Read it and then decide - cheap advice.
__________________
quastdog
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 13 Mar 2007
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: Pennsylvania,USA
Posts: 107
For what it's worth
I once read that, 'an experience' is the result of bad judgement, while 'experience' is the result of good judgement. I agree that you should get a small scoot to get into the swing of things. Check out the MSF safety course, both on road and off. You'll pick up a thing or two and gain confidence. Go for a short trip with your friend once you feel comfortable. There are a lot of books and magazines to give you some information and pointers related to riding and traveling. Trust your instincts, only you can make the descision that you are comfortable with your skills to take a trip like that. Also, being a healthcare professional, I would recommend taking some sort of advanced first aid class.

Good luck,
Charlie
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 13 Mar 2007
mollydog's Avatar
R.I.P.
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: california
Posts: 3,824
Read it and then decide - cheap advice.[/QUOTE]
__________________
Patrick passed Dec 2018. RIP Patrick!
Last edited by mollydog; 26 Mar 2009 at 04:41.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 13 Mar 2007
Caminando's Avatar
Moderated Users
Veteran HUBBer
  
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: DogZone Country
Posts: 1,218
Thumbs up Of course
Quote:
Originally Posted by jabon2076 View Post
Hello all - just a quick question regarding what may be an insane trip idea. My friend and I are planning on riding from the US to South America, but have little riding experience. I actually have never ridden and he has a few times. We want to leave in two months and plan to take lessons, buy bikes, and ride as much as we can before we go. Question - can it be done, or should we have a lot more riding experience to try such a trip?

thanks!
Ted Simon did it like that - why can't you?

Good roads!
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 14 Mar 2007
chatocestoni's Avatar
Registered Users
HUBB regular
  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: El salvador
Posts: 18
Quote:
Originally Posted by mollydog View Post
Is it vital you leave in two months? Is it worth your life?
That's kinda where you're at here.

Then again, maybe you are both "naturals" and you'll pick it up right away?

More likely you'll do just fine and quickly gain the basics and then when something unexpected happens....well ...you won't make it. Most newbies always do the exact WRONG thing in a panic situation. Without more time and some training...well you know.

Best training i know is get on some small (250cc or smaller) dirt bikes and have at it. Ride 'em, crash 'em, slide 'em, jump 'em. These lessons will pay huge dividends once out on the road. Why not put the trip off a year?
S. America ain't going anywhere. Are you?

Patrick
Official old fart dirt bike instructor

best advice so far, patrick
jabon , just be extremely carefull when reaching central america roads here are different and a lot of camiones on the road.
good luck

Ricardo
__________________
its all about freedom
Reply With Quote
Reply
Page 1 of 2 1 2

« Previous Thread | Next Thread »

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
A bit of basic advice about tracks... Sly-Fox Australia / New Zealand 5 25 Oct 2006 03:07
africa route advice please (border crossings) deebee Route Planning 8 29 May 2006 22:11
NEWBIE bike missionary needs help and advice TresMon Europe 4 27 Feb 2005 02:22
Newbie tips from a newbie Rene Cormier TRAVEL Hints and Tips 1 24 Jan 2005 16:27
London To Innsbruck... advice for newbie? Zygmunt Route Planning 3 3 Jul 2004 02:27

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

25 years of HU Events
Be sure to join us for this huge milestone!

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

Virginia: April 24-27
Queensland is back! May 2-5
Germany Summer: May 29-June 1
Ecuador June 13-15
Bulgaria Mini: June 27-29
CanWest: July 10-13
Switzerland: Aug 14-17
Romania: Aug 22-24
Austria: Sept. 11-14
California: September 18-21
France: September 19-21
Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes.
(ONLY US RESIDENTS and currently has a limit of 60 days.)

Ripcord Evacuation Insurance is available for ALL nationalities.


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Every book a diary
Every chapter a day
Every day a journey
Refreshingly honest and compelling tales: the hights and lows of a life on the road. Solo, unsupported, budget journeys of discovery.
Authentic, engaging and evocative travel memoirs, overland, around the world and through life.
All 8 books available from the author or as eBooks and audio books



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

Your ad could be here, on EVERY page of the HUBB, or the whole website, or as many as you like!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.



All times are GMT +1. The time now is 05:37.

Contact Us - Horizons Unlimited Motorcycle Travellers Website - Archive - Privacy Statement - Top