Race to a Rally: A Journey into the World of Rally Racing

Updated: Aug 5, 2023

Before you dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of rally racing, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the basics and gain some experience in off-roading rallies. So, what exactly is a rally race?

A rally race is an adventurous and challenging multi-stage event that can span over several days or be condensed into a thrilling single day. Each stage is timed, and the participant with the shortest overall time across the stages emerges as the winner. Rally races are all about off-roading, pushing the limits over rough terrains, challenging weather conditions, and even encountering wild animals. It's a true test of both you and your bike, an experience that can either break you or elevate you to new heights, making you feel like a true hero.

Taking part in a rally race can be physically demanding, and it can put considerable strain on your bike. So, it's essential to prepare yourself mentally and physically for the challenges that lie ahead. Whether it leads to your worst moments or your best achievements, a rally race is an adventure like no other.

One of the most exciting aspects of participating in a rally race is the opportunity to experience a country in a unique way. The journey will take you through stunning landscapes, remote areas, and places few have the chance to explore. Along the way, you'll meet incredible people who share your passion for adventure and off-roading. These connections often lead to lifelong friendships that extend beyond the race itself.

In summary, a rally race is an adrenaline-pumping, endurance-testing adventure that will forever leave its mark on you. The challenges you'll face, the experiences you'll encounter, and the bonds you'll form with fellow racers will shape you into a stronger, more accomplished individual. So, if you're ready to embrace the thrills of rally racing, prepare yourself for a journey that will push your limits and open doors to an extraordinary world of off-roading exploration.

The classes

· ELITE M INDEPENDENT MALLE

· M1 M 290CC

· M2 M 300-390 CC

· M3 M 400-475 CC

· M4 M 480-600 CC

· M5 M 650-750 CC

· M6 M 650-1300 CC TWIN

· QUADS Q INDEPENDENT MALLE

· SSV B INDEPENDENT MALLE

Race licence holder class

· FIM TOUT TERRAIN CP M1-M6,B,Q AS IN REGULATION

CLASSES no roadbook not timed.

· ADVENTURE RAID ENDURO R1 250-700 CC SINGLE

· ADVENTURE RAID ENDURO R2 650-1300 CC TWIN

Adventure class u need gps device

· GPS device (Garmin Map Plotters) 60 C, CS, CSX 276 – 278 C Montana Zumo (350, 550, 660) 62-64 S, ST

Developing Skills for a Multipool Day Rally Race

If you believe you possess the necessary skills to take on a multi-stage day rally race, you might just have what it takes to finish strong. Participating in the Tet (Trans Euro Trail) can serve as an excellent test, allowing you to gauge your ability to handle days of off-roading while putting your fitness and skills to the test. Rally racing is a true tour of endurance, and your stamina will be challenged throughout the journey. It's vital to assess how well you handle your bike's weight during long rides, taking into account your experience in off-roading.

To excel in rally racing, it's crucial to continually hone your skills through regular off-roading practice. As you gain more experience, your skills will improve, and you'll become more proficient in high-speed off-roading. Quick thinking and sharp reflexes are essential attributes to master, allowing you to adapt to the ever-changing conditions you'll face on the trail.

One critical aspect of rally racing is learning to use a roadbook effectively and on the fly. Roadbook days and events are available to help you learn this skill. Understanding basic French is essential, as many roadbooks use French markings—a legacy from the Dakar Rally, where the concept originated. With the 2020 F.E.I rule book already marked in blue, you can use additional colors to indicate danger or mark points on the trail ahead. The roadbook setup will depend on your bike type, and for most bikes, mounting it on the handlebars is the ideal location. For instance, on a 990, placing it above the speedometer works well, while on an enduro bike, other mounting bars can be utilized. Bikes with a rally tower benefit from placing the roadbook on the tower, making it easier to read at eye level.

In summary, to succeed in a multipool day rally race, it's essential to continuously develop your skills through practice and off-roading experience. Assessing your fitness and bike-handling abilities during long rides will also contribute to your success. Mastering the art of using a roadbook efficiently will be invaluable, allowing you to navigate the rally with confidence and precision. Embrace the journey of improvement, and with determination and dedication, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of a thrilling rally race

Necessary Equipment

Off Road Tires

· Off road rider clothing & protections

· Medical First Aid Kit

· Cell Phone with roaming

· GPS device (Garmin Map Plotters) 60 C, CS, CSX 276 – 278 C Montana Zumo (350, 550, 660) 62-64 S, ST

· Road Legal Bikes

The Costs of Rally Participation

The expenses associated with participating in a rally can vary significantly depending on the specific race. For example, the prestigious Dakar Rally entrance fee can amount to $15,000, while the Hella Rally only costs $700 to enter. If you choose to join a team, additional expenses may arise, such as around $900 for team membership and shipping your bike. If you opt to have a mechanic on board, budgeting around $1,300 to $3,000 for a week's worth of basic maintenance is advisable. Ultimately, the overall costs will depend on the depth of your financial resources.

For accommodations during the race, there are flexible options available. You can find reasonable lodging through Airbnb, often at around £100 per week, especially if you share with friends or fellow riders. Alternatively, you have the choice to camp at the bivouac provided by the rally organizers, which is typically covered under the entry fee.

Essential Mechanical Skills

Participating in a rally requires a solid foundation in mechanical skills. You must learn how to fix your bike on the trail, even under pressure and in challenging conditions. Carrying the right tools on your bike and knowing how to use each one is crucial. Whether you have a team assisting you or not, being self-sufficient in maintaining your bike is indispensable.

Regardless of your bike's engine size, you should become proficient in various maintenance tasks. Regularly checking your bike every night to ensure it remains in proper working condition is essential. This involves inspecting the brakes, clutch, and general components, as well as conducting routine maintenance tasks.

Racing with a smaller cc bike may necessitate performing more frequent maintenance, possibly even after each race day. A regular routine of checks and adjustments, such as performing a service or a thorough check, will be necessary to keep your bike performing at its best.

In summary, being well-prepared financially and having a solid foundation in mechanical skills are vital prerequisites for participating in a rally. Budgeting for the entrance fee, accommodation, and any additional support you might need is essential for a successful racing experience. Equally important is developing the skills to fix your bike on the trail and maintaining it in excellent condition throughout the race, whether you have a team assisting you or not. By mastering these skills, you'll be better equipped to tackle the challenges and triumph in the exhilarating world of rally racing.

 Fix a flat tube and tubeless.

· Oil change

· Bleed brake-hydluic fluid

· Adjust spokes

· Take fairing off and on.

· Clean air filter-change.

· Change brake pads

· Change tyre

· Wiring

Tools u need

· Tyre levers

· L keys

· Wench – sockets

· Chain braker

· Racket for tubeless

· C02 censer-pump

· Patch kit for tube – plug kit tubeless

· Spoke tension tool

Spare Parts

Go from bike to bike based on my bike ktm 1190 adventure r LC8 . most apply to all bikes

· Spare clutch slave

· Tube

· Hyletic fluid

· Engine oil

· Oil filter spare

· Air filter

· (Rottweiler air filter)- air filter red sock

· Spare chain

· Chain link

· Bolts

· JB weld

· Zip ties

· Duct tape

Roadbook parts

· Part for roadbook every one diffent I use FR2

· Need bands

· Clear tape.

· Highlighters.

· Spare pug and wiring.

· Sew and bolts. 

 

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