This year for spring break I would like to ride the length of New Mexico via the Shadow of the Rockies, part of the TAT. I am riding a 2012 wr250r and could use advice on everything from tires to fuel stops to camping space. I figure I have ten days to truck to El Paso, ride as far as I can, and ride back to El Paso and home for school Monday.
My first concern is surface types. Should I be gearing my tires to mud/sand or hard packed gravel and rocky surfaces? If there are recommendations on legitimate dirt bike tires, that might be a route to take, and switch to street tires for the ride home. Either way, I will have to change gearing and rubber for the ride home.
Second concern is maintenance and safety. What fails on a long ride other than batteries and tire tubes? What should I carry in addition to the stock tool bag?
Third concern: gas, water, camping sites, and dealerships. Where are they and which ones are going to be around in four months?
Lastly, can this be done? Because of weather, I've assumed that late March is the première time to go, but should I consider hitting it at the end of the semester, late April to early June? Is twelve days feasible for travel and fun? How exactly is the weather in New Mexico during March and June?
I appreciate any and all help with this trip, and whatever personal experience on this specific route or general long distance adventure riding.
My first concern is surface types. Should I be gearing my tires to mud/sand or hard packed gravel and rocky surfaces? If there are recommendations on legitimate dirt bike tires, that might be a route to take, and switch to street tires for the ride home. Either way, I will have to change gearing and rubber for the ride home.
Second concern is maintenance and safety. What fails on a long ride other than batteries and tire tubes? What should I carry in addition to the stock tool bag?
Third concern: gas, water, camping sites, and dealerships. Where are they and which ones are going to be around in four months?
Lastly, can this be done? Because of weather, I've assumed that late March is the première time to go, but should I consider hitting it at the end of the semester, late April to early June? Is twelve days feasible for travel and fun? How exactly is the weather in New Mexico during March and June?
I appreciate any and all help with this trip, and whatever personal experience on this specific route or general long distance adventure riding.