Tulips , CAP headings , waypoints . Hieroglyphics from some long-lost tomb ? No ! This is just part of that black art that forms rally navigation , an often misunderstood , confused coding that directs a rider across a land , in reality it ’ s adventure in its purest form .
Forget GPS , an electronic device providing turn by turn directions across the terrain , or even a map outlining the land , the features , the tracks . Rallying relies on a roadbook , a combination of glyphs known as tulips , for the very fact that they resemble the flower famous to Holland , a running list of distances , and occasional coded notes that include warnings or items to look for . Coupled with watching the course and trying to ride as fast as you possibly can , it ’ s a confusing coupling that often leads the most experienced rider to find themself lost amongst the landscape .
Understanding a roadbook can often be seen as akin to Indiana Jones deciphering the writings on a tomb of an ancient emperor . It needn ’ t be , as explained by Australian rallying competitor and Dakar finisher , Michael Burgess .
Destination Dakar Roadbook Adventures is Michael ’ s brainchild , a business that provides participants with a glimpse of what it takes to understand and take part in the idiosyncrasies of rally navigation and the world ’ s toughest motorcycle race . It ’ s a unique weekend long course that teaches , encourages , and builds confidence . Partnered with riding in Australian bushland , it ’ s an adventure that will see you wanting for more .
Michael ’ s laidback approach is comforting , anecdotes of his experience lead one to reason that he knows what he ’ s on about and has his students foremost in his thoughts . Yes , there ’ s stories of horror , of getting lost , not having an idea how to rally , and then there ’ s stories of success , of leading the world ’ s best in the Saudi Arabian dunes .
“ It was pretty cool riding for a few days with Laia ( Sanz ),” grinned Michael as he described following and working with the Spanish former GASGAS rider . Sanz is
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