The times have changed and the amount of information available for different parts of the world is astounding. This has created a high level of confidence to travel to remote parts of the globe with relative ease. As the owner of Moto Patagonia, I hear a lot from very strong riders that they do not want to hire a guide or ride in a big group. This takes away from the adventurous feel and creates a level of certainty that some do not want. I totally understand that and I myself have similar feelings. This sentiment is the main reason I limit group size to me plus 5 riders on all the Moto Patagonia guided tours. We also do not use a chase truck; we ride unsupported to create a more authentic ride. It’s an adventure ride after all, things will go wrong and working as a team to solve problems and continue the ride is what makes it fun and exciting. This comradery is why nearly everyone rides with a core group of friends. Its why clubs around the world get created and its why the comradery of motorcycle riding draws so many to the lifestyle. Now on the other end of the spectrum renting a motorcycle and heading off on your own or with a group of friends certainly is a very cost effective way to see different parts of the world and have your own adventure on your terms. It removes some of the things a guided ride offers but replaces it with no time line and offers an open agenda for what to see and when to see it. I understand the allure of the rental. For this reason, when I started Moto Patagonia, I quickly realized that moto rentals would have to be a strong part of what we do and make it equally as important as our guided rides. Motorcycle Tour or Motorcycle rental, riding here in Patagonia is safe fun and exciting.
What does it take for a long-distance motorcycle ride in Patagonia? I ask myself this question almost every week. I am constantly trying to find ways to make myself more prepared for the tours I guide with Moto Patagonia. There are three main things I focus on, the physical, mental and the cultural. First is being physically fit to take on day after day of motorcycle riding in remote areas with different road surfaces, weather and duration. This requires me to be physically strong and resist getting sick. Its important to recognize the amount of stress you will be putting on your body on a big motorcycle trip. I personally ride bicycles to get in shape and that has two awesome benefits. Whether on my full suspension mountain bike or my gravel bike both my moto riding skills and my fitness are gaining huge benefit regarding balance, cornering and endurance. With many hours on my bicycles I can help boost strength and riding skill. Second is being mentally prepared to ride a motorcycle in Patagonia. They say, those who rush in Patagonia lose their time. You must be prepared for the little things like road construction, rain, and flat tires. The people living full time in Patagonia have a different sense of urgency. Slowing down and recognizing that things will be much more relaxed will help you enjoy your ride. Culturally Patagonia is far different than the big fast paced cities of Chile and Argentina. Being physically, mentally and culturally prepared for the remoteness of Patagonia will help you have the most fun and simply put the best motorcycle ride possible. Follow along with us here at Moto Patagonia as I add more information to help you have an amazing ride in Patagonia.
As this is my first post in this soon to be informational blog about riding in Patagonia, I will cover what I will be writing about. In general Patagonia is a well researched part of the world. Its an area that has fascinated just about anyone with even the slightest adventurous bone in their body. From the famous hiking to the vast remoteness of it all there is certainly a lot to offer. From a motorcycle riding standpoint the data narrows and becomes a touch more difficult to research ahead of a big ride. One amazing thing I have found about Patagonia as a region between both Chile and Argentina is that not everything is on the Google!. From a long distance riding point of view this place is still pretty raw. From gas station locations to the wind and where the last of the dirt roads are, this blog will answer your questions and give inspiration and get YOU riding in Patagonia.
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Daniel Palazzolo, Co-Founder and Lead Guide at Moto Patagonia. Archives
July 2024
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