j0epere wrote: Fri Dec 30, 2022 2:28 pm

Sulev wrote: Fri Dec 30, 2022 1:46 pm Hi James, i am new here but it was interesting to see that the same Harry's video inspired me also to do exactly the same project like you will do. My plan is to go 2024. This summer i bought the bike (3AJ). Plan is to restore it from inside out (like Harry does with its cars and bikes). Then summer 2023 to do some test events and 2024 spring there will be Sandriders.

That's cool Sulev.

Now we have a A/B test: make some changes to running bike / rebuild from start.

Hopefully we can also compare notes and advise each other :-)

Maybe I will have such a great time in 2023, I will also do 2024...

j0epere wrote: Fri Dec 30, 2022 2:28 pm

Sulev wrote: Fri Dec 30, 2022 1:46 pm Hi James, i am new here but it was interesting to see that the same Harry's video inspired me also to do exactly the same project like you will do. My plan is to go 2024. This summer i bought the bike (3AJ). Plan is to restore it from inside out (like Harry does with its cars and bikes). Then summer 2023 to do some test events and 2024 spring there will be Sandriders.

Hi Sulev,

Your name hints that you might be an Estonian, is that correct?

JamesinEdinburgh wrote: Sat Dec 31, 2022 2:31 pm Took my 3AJ out for a test ride today.

Had lots of smoke at the start (white/blue), maybe because only 2 degrees centigrade or maybe my piston rings are worn?

Not seen so much smoke before, but bike has 50,000K on the clock and oil level was low in the tank. Also has small oil leak left of starter motor.

Should I strip the engine and replace the rings or enter the rally with lots of engine oil in reserve - what do you guys think?

Scumfrog wrote: Sun Mar 05, 2023 10:09 am I did an Africa trip in 1992 on a 1VJ. 15,000 miles total.

Carrying up to 60 litres of petrol IIRC, minimum 5 litres water, spare tyres, other spares and tools, food, cooking stove etc.

Wore out two sets of tyres and two chains.
We did for a week or so have the opportunity to put all the gear on a land rover, at which point the bike felt super light and maneuverable after the previous 4 months.
My bike was bog standard, didn't miss a beat, so I wouldn't worry about the weight or reliability of a Tenere personally.

When you get tired and lose concentration / bottle is when you fall off, so I'd say your strength stamina is a priority over any bike upgrades.
If you see soft sand, accelerate as you hit it with full throttle.

I'd go with Michelin desert personally. And proper off road boots with a hinge, and knee protection.

I'd be interested to know how you get on, and how strict the scrutineering is with regards your protective gear and the bike.Might do it one day. Currently looking for the right bike.