Hi all,
After following a few forums and a fair bit of research, I decided on the XT600E over other makes and models for my long lusted Africa excursion.
I based my choice of bike on the facts that the pre 2003 XT appears a simple, tough and reliable form of transport (fingers crossed).

The bike I have bought appears to be in a good condition. It only has 1,100miles on the clock, never been dropped, been started fairly regularly (even if not ridden), no funny noises or smells. The bike is due for a service and MOT in 2 months time so this should pick up a few of the unknowns. In the mean time, I have enrolled on a 10 week mechanics course which hopefully will teach me the basics of how to self service, fix punctures etc etc....

(Any suggestion on what I need to learn would be appreciated!!!)

So now I have a stock standard XT, my question is what do I need to do to the bike to prep it for the trip - I am hoping to find a travel companion, and then do a good bit of dirt track......as well as tarred roads.

Below are my thoughts....
1. I would imagine that a long range tank is fairly imperative - are the only tanks available Acerbis ? or are there any other suggestions besides filling up water bottles and burying them in the paniers ?

2. A sump guard

3. I was wondering if the standard lights are sufficient or is one needs to mount additional spots ?

4. Does one need to strengthen the rear frame to handle additional load ? - I usually travel light, however unsure of the weight of all the additional gear - tent, spares, fishing rod...etc....

5. Panier rack/ mount - any suggestion on what is best ?

6. Additional dials (Oil temp) and mounted Plug sockets. How many sockets should one mount ? - and I have also read of them being mounted underneath or along side the seat so that one can charge items in ones luggage on the back of the bike ? I was considering 2 or 3 power sockets...one for the GPS, another to charge rechargeable batteries...and one "just in case" - may be over kill. Can one buy a mount for the dashboard ?

7. I read that stronger rims are a good option to prevent having to tighten the spokes every few days, especially after long days off road ?

8. A wind shield - I am amazed that the wind buffering is not worse at 50mph. Any suggestion on what should be bought ?

9. I am used to riding my CBR600. The little brake light at the rear of the XT makes me slightly nervous.....was contemplating mounting a lighthouse near the rear to make me more noticable...esp on London roads. Any ideas on whether one can beef up the rear lights...add a few LED's ? - or am I being a baby ?

As I said, the bike appears in fabulous condition. I do feel slightly sick making changes to a perfectly good bike....but I suppose these can all be seen as enhancements.

Appreciate any advice given or suggestions for things that may be NB but I have completely over looked.

Thanks

[url=http://www.touringted.com/preparing-the-bike]Touring Ted

__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.

TT......you are a beaut !! - a bit of weekend reading, thanks a bunch.

Learn by my mistakes though...

Forget the alarm.. It flattens the battery and goes off at will..

Forget hard luggage.. Keep it lightweight.. Use Softbags.. REALLY !!!

You wont need a stiffer rear spring, waste of money !!

The loobman lasted about 2 weeks before falling apart.

Try and get your seat remade as its very uncomfortable, even with a sheepskin.

enjoy !!

__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.

Check this out too...

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...pictures-26741

__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.

Make your own screen
I thought that my Screen was too thin at the top, but eventually found that at motorway speeds it disturbed the air at helmet level rather than dumping it onto my lid. Whilst really protecting my body.
The bike was fine for many hours at above 70mph.




When are you planning the trip and what route are you taking?

I would advise metal cases not soft cases to increase security in the city's which you inevitably will spend time in.


Cheers G

P.S. great choice of bike and you will enjoy