BMW Motorcycle

BMW Motorrad USA

GS Challenge FAQ

F.A.Q. 

 WHAT IS THE CLASS ALL ABOUT?

The objective behind the class is to teach you how to ride your bike safely and competently on gravel and off-road.  You will be taught the fundementals of braking, accelerating and handling,  by the end of the day you should come away with a better understanding of what you and your bike are capable of in those conditions.

CAN I USE MY STREET TIRES?

Yes, you can but we encourage you to run knobbies, you will learn the true potential of your GS using knobbies, such as the Metzeler Karoo or the Continental TKC 80.  The end reuslt will be more enjoyment and a better understanding of what you and your machine will be capable of.

For the GS Challenge or any off-road riding, you will be better suited riding with DOT-approved off road tires.  They offer greatly improved traction and performance off-road, as well as piece of mind.  On the street they still perform admirably and can hold their own in the corners.  There are two brands we recommend you to run, Metzeler Karoo’s and Continental TKC80’s.  The Metzeler Karoo is the more aggressive of the two knobbies and offers the best off-road performance, while the Continental TKC80’s still perform admirably in the dirt.  They last a little longer on the street as well. 

We are also carrying Heidenau K 60 Scouts.   This is a great compromise to run.   Some sizes might not be in-stock and will need to be ordered.

ANY SERVICE YOU NEED DONE BEFORE THE CHALLENGE NEEDS TO BE SCHEDULED BY APRIL 1, 2012

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR SERVICE

METZELER KAROO T

30% On-Road  70% Off-Road

Knobby tire for high performing enduro bikes designed to satisfy the most demanding travelers’ needs highlighting a strong off-road appeal

  • Dedicated geometry and distribution of knobs perfectly combining reduced noise and enhanced braking stability especially with ABS braking systems
  • Larger size and reduced height of knobs developed for higher traction and improved high speed resistance and mileage
  • Top performance on-road: outstanding handling perfectly combined with a great cornering stability at all lean angles
  • This tire is best suited for the R 1200, 1150, & 1100 GS lines, as well as the 2011 & up G 650 GS and the ’08 & up F650 GS Twin.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

METZELER KAROO 2

10% On-Road  90% Off-Road

Multipurpose off road tire with maximal adaptability that makes everything possible:
from the sand of desert rallies to the asphalt of road touring

  • Knob distribution developed for impressive traction in off-road use together with great high speed stability on-road
  • Handling characteristics with smooth corner entry and stable leaning for optimum control when cornering
  • Excellent mileage capability even if used on-road and great adaptability to different bike’s load conditions

 

Continental TKC 80

40 % On-Road  60% Off-Road

Well-tried multi-use tire for both street and dirt.

• Tried and tested for long hauls and competition

• Self-cleaning tread pattern

• High levels of side stability on soft surfaces

• Very good on-road handling and mileage 

• Original equipment on BMW 1200 GS Adventure and KTM 690 Enduro R 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Heidenau K60 Scout

50% On-Road  50% Off-Road

When you’re 50 miles from anywhere, the last thing you want to worry about is your tires. Delivering great off-road performance, these won’t burn up on the asphalt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 ANY SERVICE YOU NEED DONE BEFORE THE CHALLENGE NEEDS TO BE SCHEDULED BY APRIL 1, 2012

 CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR SERVICE

 

WILL I NEED BIKE PROTECTION?

Yes, some form of engine protection guards are highly recommended.  Engine guards and skid plates are necessary, along with hand-guards.   Anyone who enrolls in the 2012 GS Challenge will be entitled to a 10% discount on necessary protection parts for their respective motorcycle. * YOU CAN TAKE THE CLASS WITH A STOCK BIKE, THE CLASS CHALLENGES WILL NOT BE ALL THAT DIFFICULT.  THE SUNDAY RIDE WILL BE WHEN YOU WILL BENEFIT THE MOST FROM GUARDS OF SOME SORT.

ANY SERVICE YOU NEED DONE BEFORE THE CHALLENGE NEEDS TO BE SCHEDULED BY APRIL 1, 2012

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR SERVICE

 

WHAT ARE MY ACCOMMODATIONS?

Minimum suggested camping gear is a tent and sleeping bag.  A camp chair would be a welcome addition.  A portable toilet will be on site.  Flush toilets and showers are available at the club house about 1 mile away.  Lodging is available in Potosi and you will be required to make your own arrangements.  There are 2 fire pits in the camping area and wood will be provided.  Coolers with ice will be available.  Water for drinking will be available at the camp site.  You will need to supply your own beverage of choice.  As the schedule indicates, meals will be provided from Friday night through breakfast Sunday morning.  Bring additional snacks as necessary.  Due to limited parking / camping space,  PLEASE ride your bike to the event as we do not have a lot of room for big camping trailers, RVs, trucks and trailers.
If you must  bring your camper/truck or RV please let us know ahead of time

 

 

WHAT TYPE OF RIDING GEAR IS REQUIRED?

Minimum suggested riding gear consists of the following; A Helmet with a chin bar, Modular, full face or dirt bike are all acceptable, eye protection, gloves, shoes that cover the ankle and long pants.  It is ideal to have gear with protection in the knees, shins, elbows, shoulders and back.  Street gear with armor is sufficient.  Boots that allow you to comfortably stand on the pegs and offer some protection for the shins and ankles are ideal.  Consider having sun glasses and a way to protect sun exposed skin such as the back of the neck.  Neck gaiters or “Buffs” work well.  Prepare for a range of temperatures and activity levels.  Mesh or vented gear is more comfortable during slow speed physically demanding riding.  Be aware the instruction will proceed rain or shine.  It is advisable to have some method to carry water with you during the training as some riding will take place away from the campground.  A camel-back is a good option.  It is also a good idea to have a way to carry the gear you shed or put on when the conditions change.  A small back pack will work if you do not have luggage on the bike.  This will be particularly beneficial during the Sunday trail ride.

 

 

WHAT IS SUGGESTED AS FAR AS BIKE SETUP?

Considerations for the bike do not differ from those normally required for enjoying the GS in its natural habitat.  The bike needs to be in good mechanical condition, (Everything should work).  Maintenance should be up to date.  For example, if it has been 4 years since you replaced your battery, consider proactively replacing it to avoid missing training time.  You will need to arrive with enough fuel to complete the training on Saturday and the trail ride on Sunday.  Fuel needs will vary by bike but 3-4 gallons is a reasonable minimum for the entire weekend.  The trail ride will leave Sunday morning from camp with no fuel stop included in the ride.  Bring sufficient fuel or make plans to obtain enough.   Fuel is available 20 miles south in Potosi.  ANY SERVICE YOU NEED DONE BEFORE THE CHALLENGE NEEDS TO BE SCHEDULED BY APRIL 1, 2012.  Time and personnel limitations will limit mechanical assistance to emergency repairs so the participant can resume training.  Ride leaders will have basic field repair materials with their bikes on the trail ride.  No chase vehicle will be in tow so plan to carry all materials needed for the day.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR SERVICE

 

 WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE LIKE?

2012 Rogue Creek GS Challenge April 27-29

Schedule

 

Friday April 27

15:00 Arrive at Rogue Creek Adv. Camp after this time or expect to be put to work

17:30-18:00 registration window

18:00 rider meeting, group leader introduction

19:00 hot dog roast we supply the dogs and burn you do the cooking

19:30 trail riding survival seminar

 

Saturday April 28

07:15 Breakfast served and orientation

08:00 Instruction begins

12:00-12:45 Lunch

Instruction resumes after lunch

15:30-17:30 GS Cup

18:00 Dinner is served

18:30 Brief prayer service for those interested

 

Sunday April 29

06:30 Breakfast Served and ride orientation

08:00 Rides leave

13:00 Lunch on your own Boos diner, Potosi, MO Rogue Creek GS Challenge Event officially over

Please feel free to continue, ride home or return to camp on your own

Campers welcome Sunday night.  Food is on your own.