Starting from Zero... Getting in Gear for Rally Raid

What do I need to get into Rally? Here's the short list on what you need to get started!

​Check out the  Chasing waypoints Podcast Episode 009 ! 

First things first....

All right, so it's official you have decided you are on the path to participating in your first rally, and you've got your head straight and know that you are signing up as an Adventure Rider or you are in to win it. Whichever category it is or mind set that you will be subscribing to, you're going to need some gear, so here are the basics! (note: we are not responsible for the consequences of your significant other finding out how much you spent on this adventure)

Where do I put the map?

First and foremost, you will need a roadbook holder or, in some places, known as a roadbook reader. I think that is like the whole tomato/tomahto thing. Below, you will find 2 of the more popular options. Remember that you can go with manual or electronic advance, whichever suits your budget and intended use better.

F2R RB701 Manual Roadbook Reader

Simple, easy to mount, and no wiring required unless running a light.

F2R RB730 Roadbook Reader

Simple, easy to mount, will require 12v power and running of the control switch.

Ok how do I keep track of distance?

Next up will probably be one of the more essential pieces of equipment. And that is going to be a trip meter. Before we get too far in yes, we know what odometers are and motorcycles have these on them; the main difference is they cannot be adjusted or corrected for slight mishaps along the route. There are two options in this realm.

ICO Racing Rally Max - G and Max 2

The workhorse! Will find the Gen 1 of these still in use today, they are that robust. Requires 12v power

RNS Tripmaster XL4

Tripmeter, 24 hour clock, service interval, and battery or 12v power. 

Mounting it up...

Okay, so now that we have the two essential pieces to get into this whole Adventure, how do you mount this to the bike while duct tape zip ties and chewing gum or quick epoxy may be handy for many types of do-it-yourself projects or Trailside repairs this is not one of those times! Here there are two options for rally light style, one that goes on the handlebars and is very simplistic or two, adding a small fairing or tower that will allow you to mount these things to the bike. These options are suitable for bikes that are going utilizes in different arenas.

RMS Universal Navigation Clamp

Short and sweet, this bracket provides a way to attach the a 12mm bar to your handle bars which in turn mounts the roadbook reader and with the use of the bracket below, your Tripmeters as well.

RMS Support Bracket for Roadbook and  Trip Meter

Simple Solution for mounting your tripmeters and roadbook reader all together on the same 12mm bar.

The easy way...

Rally Navigation Kit

Customizable kit that can be order in one easy step. 

The Sonora Tower

Brainchild of Matthew Glade the Sonora Tower is a simple and light way to have both a fairing and a place for your navigation equipment.  As mentioned in episode number 7 of the Chasing Waypoints podcast with Scott Bright, a little wind protection goes a long way!

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But wait there's more?

Maybe, you have to remember that most rally raids are based around covering long distances and often have fuel stops scattered across longer distances. So basics would include a desert tank chosen based on the largest volume, a comfortable seat, and the right handle bar / stabilizer / riser combination. The end result is you want to have a bike you can ride all day because in the world of rally raid you will.

In the end I hope this gives you a basic outline of the parts needed, it is not much!  If you haven't already don't for get to tune in to the Chasing Waypoints podcast for more background on this and more.  A huge thank you to Matthew Glade and the gang over at Rally Moto Shop .  Tune in to episode number 9 where we chat with him about rally gear and more!