TRAVERSE 5
EDITORIAL
TRAVERSE :
ENOUGH OF THE JUDGING
Recent months have seen lessons learned , I guess learnings in the modern parlance . Rides in Kyrgyzstan , Mongolia and here in Australia have all suggested that we as bike riders can be quite judgemental , me included .
Kyrgyzstan taught me that not everywhere considers a twowheeled machine the be all and end all , in fact many regions of that great country see two wheels as being a sign of poverty , I did my best to convince them otherwise . Mongolia taught me that an adventure bike can , and often is , any bike . While I was enjoying once again the limitations of the Royal Enfield Himalayan and the places it goes where most other bikes simply aren ’ t taken I also discovered that the underpowered , Chinese made , Dayun is a great bike for adventure , as well as day to day Mongolian commutes . These little 150cc machines are fast becoming the mainstay for the nomadic people . And whilst it ’ s sad to see the traditional horsemanship being replaced with two wheels ,
on the other hand there ’ s the fact that these bikes are taken to some quite adventurous locations and seemingly without trouble .
Then Australia , with the recent Can-am Spyder and Ryker Muster . These three wheeled oddities are a wonder of engineering and provide a unique experience . I once judged them as a nonsense , for riders who can ’ t ride , and I soon discovered I was a long way from the truth . These three-wheeled machines are indeed an oddity and yet provide enjoyment for so many people who want to ride two wheels but for whatever reason choose not to , at least they are still on the road enjoying the openness of motorcycling . I shall never again be so judgemental .
All three experiences get a run in this issue along with many other outstanding features of motorcycle travel and adventure from around the world , so sit back , read on , and don ’ t judge until you try …
Leigh
TRAVERSE 5