After two years and 32,000 miles in the northern California twisties, I got an opportunity to LEARN how to manage the R1150 GSA off road. My adventure started when Jim Hyde from Rawhyde Adventure Camp called and asked if I wanted to spend 3 days of my life learning how to handle 600 pounds of Bavarian metal in the outback.

Lets think about it. The wife is outbound to Tampa for the weekend. Knock off a few honey-do projects for the backyard, or be supervised under the instruction of one Mr. Jim Hyde in the pursuit of my Walter Mitty, Paris to Dakar fantasy. One phone call and I was southbound to Gorman, CA. Managed to turn a five-hour sprint into a ten-hour jaunt via the Pacific Coast Highway.

I showed up Friday night and met with six other GS riders, one had the new GS1200 (yes Virginia it IS an off road bike). Mix good food and wine with excellent company you have the makings of a great weekend. Speaking of food, imagine you’re tired from riding all day, you grab a shower, head to the shack somewhat refreshed, when a plate of broiled salmon, baby asparagus, small red potatoes and Dijon sauce is set before you. Wine is served and you reflect on the days riding. This was the beginner class. I can’t image what’s served in the Advanced class.

For two days we were instructed on the finer points of moving big iron in the dirt. Front and rear brake slides, center of gravity, steering with body positions, rear wheel rosters, figure eights on sloping terrain, uphill climbs, down hill runs, off camber turns, gravel riding, attacked sand pits, tire repair, and outback communications. All relayed through building block type of instruction. Jim has the patience of a saint and calmly eased our concerns. Our group caught on and quickly moved through the curriculum. Some old mantras rang true: when in doubt, power out, look where you’re going, and if you look at a rock, well that’s where you’re going, go slow, and weight on the outside of the turn. I did great except for the downhill. Jim worked with me to figure out a better body position resulting in more control of the rear brake. I kept getting better. On the third day we were down to three riders (due to other commitments). On the last day we were supposed to go on a 20 something mile trail ride, but fires closed local access. So it was off to the OHV park ten miles away.

Long story short, we employed what was taught, resulting in the most pleasurable dirt riding (read: I did not fall down). Some will say they can learn this stuff on their own. You can but the learning curve is slower and the resulting damage to your bike may set you back a few dollars. If you want to improve your skills, gain confidence when the asphalt turns to dirt, give Jim a call.

Drew King
A&S Sales Associate