Frequently  Asked Questions about the USA Southwest Expeditions

How difficult is this ride? 
“Ones mans fun ride is another’s white knuckled terror…- sm”
This is the most commonly asked question we receive and short of riding with you personally and observing your manners in a similar environment, we just can’t answer you. We do know that you should have prior off road experience and that this is not a ride for the novice. The areas we travel in the Southwest offer a wide variety of trails, from easy gravel roads suitable for sedans to hard core 4X4 jeep trails. Most of the trails we will ride will be somewhere in the middle, with some flexibility to alter routes to suit the skill levels and desires of the group. In Colorado the more challenging trails will be the high altitude passes where we may encounter sections with steep grades and loose rocks. Stream crossings may also pose some challenges. In the Moab area, deep sand and short steep rocky sections and in some cases the remoteness itself will be your highest concern.
In all of these situations you will discover the benefit of traveling in a group is beyond measure. There will be no single track on these tours. Ideal bikes are 400 -650 cc street legal Dual sports. Anyone considering a larger dual purpose touring machine should be highly skilled on that machine in off road conditions. Please use good judgment.

What is the weather going to be like?
We attempt to offer tours during what is considered optimum climate conditions for motorcycling.
Colorado Rockies – July & August present the best (and only) window for tour at altitudes and passes are clear of snow. Wild flowers will be in full bloom and the views will be hard to match. Temperatures will range from 70-80 in the valleys in the day but much cooler at the higher altitudes. Summer Monsoon rains are not uncommon in the mountains and you should expect to get some degree of moisture activity when the storms build up in the afternoons.

Moab area – Temperatures can range from 70-90 in the days with cool nights. This is a high, dry desert climate so comfort is very dependant factors like clothing, sun protection and hydration. Desert monsoons can drop huge quantities of rain but generally are brief and refreshing.

What riding gear do you recommend?
As part of your Tour Information Packet we will provide you wit ha comprehensive list of gear recommendations. Protective riding gear is essential for your safety and comfort.

If needed can I store my vehicles in Durango for the duration of the tour?
Yes. MotoDiscovery will provide you that detail in the pre-tour Information Packets.

Will there be support on this tour?
Yes. There will be a 4X4 pick up vehicle with essential tools, supplies emergency equipment and a spare motorcycle. It will also serve to carry your luggage.

What can we expect in the way of accommodations?
Adventure in Style is more than just a catchy phrase. We are seeking hotels and lodges that are in character with the environment and that will provide comfort and pleasure at the end of your day’s ride. Leave your sleeping bags at home. Count on some fine lodging!

How is the air service into Durango?
We feel that the convenience of beginning this event right in the heart of the best riding is essential for optimizing your valuable time. Durango La Plata County Airport is serviced by Delta, United Express, America West/ US Air and a number of smaller regional carriers. Direct flights originate from three major cities.

What motorcycles are available for rent?
We find that the DR650 Suzuki serves our needs superbly on these tours. It is highly reliable, extremely user friendly, light weight and with adequate suspension and clearances. They are also great on the pavement stretches which are found on all of our Southwest events. The MotoDiscovery fleet is Expedition outfitted with a protective under carrier bash plate, comfortable after market seat, a rear rack for accommodating a convenient tail bag which we provide for carrying incidentals. Bikes will have a more aggressive than OEM Continental TKC80 tires or similar for added traction. We rotate our bikes out long before they get tired.

When should I book my tour?
Now! Groups are limited to nine bikes for the Canyon Lands and Rockies Tour and twelve for the Best of the Southwest. Early reservations help us to secure the best in accommodations well in advance and better serve you. Please do not delay. And tell your friends!

Can MotoDiscovery customize a tour just for me and my friends?