MRW issue 5 preview

FEATURE
SMALL
ADVENTURE
BIKES
MATTER?
A
To go “adventuring” you need a big, expensive, fully kitted out adventure
bike don’t you? Well, not really. Brian Cheyne tells us how one can go
exploring our beautiful country on some very affordable adventure bikes.
Words & pics by Brian Cheyne
DOES SIZE REALLY
few winters ago I was on my way to work
in my car. I was jockeying for a piece of road
when a motorcyclist came past me. He was
dressed for the cold. His bike had a big bag
on the back. In front of the bag, a sleeping
bag and a bright pink sleeping mattress were
strapped down. I envied him for the adventure
he was embarking on. Alone. I finished the
story-line in my head of the moments ahead,
the road, the tranquillity of it all. The freedom .
Wherever he was heading, a part of me wanted
to go with him. I am sure there were quite a
few other motorists who also wanted to be
a part that lifestyle but somehow never take
the leap.. They probably think that in order to
go on any type of adventure, you need a 1250
GS, all the panniers and a ‘Proudly Meerkat’
sticker. But let me make one thing abundantly
clear; adventure is not defined by engine size
and can be had for a lot less money than some
people spend just on accessories.