Dirt Bikes for Prepared Citizens
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 พ.ค. 2024
- Can Dirt Bikes be useful tools for the prepared citizen? Josh links up with Christian Guzman to go over his sustainment dirt bike setup, the pros & cons, and how it compares to normal dirt bikes.
This is simply an introduction to Dirt Bikes as a preparedness tool. Additional dirt bike resources and content at dirtycivilian.com.
Christian Guzman can be contacted on his Instagram page:
_christian_guzman
Social Platforms:
dirtycivilian
patreon.com/dirtycivilian
dirtycivilian
rumble.com/dirtycivilian
dirty_civ
00:00 Intro
01:05 The Modern Day Pack Animal
04:47 ASMR
05:25 The Sustainment Bike Setup
14:40 Backpack Dirtbike Setup
16:09 Performance
22:24 Purchasing Considerations
28:31 Final Thoughts
29:29 You Don't Want to See This
Never clicked on a video so fast
Fucking same
Me too
😂👍👍
Yep. Said it.
Shit yea. looks kool
I can't stress how much you need to have dirt bike and compatible implements in a disaster struck area. I was in charge of preparing to send medication for a landslide isolated area where it was going to take 24-48 hours to open the access for ambulances and sar team with heavy equipments, and having 4 people with dirtbikes ready for this saves a lot of people by sending first aid and survival gear to prolong the wounded survival time
Good idea I remember the book and TV show that was actually in so things that never happened to you for 5:00
Dog sleds in some regions are superior. Are you familiar with Balto?
I'm a retired military recon pilot and I think you're doing a disservice to you and your family if your not prepping these days. That being said, this is a video I've been waiting to see someone do. You guys knocked it out of the park. Thanks!
Exactly right, my friend,. Failing to plan = Planning to fail.
Paranoia is a bitch ain’t it
How come? Especially if the upper class is more focused on wealth building.
let me get started prepping, o wait no one has money
@@thefacelessone74 If you want to do it, you'll find a way.
Pro tip: keep your stock exhaust/muffler. You may need to be discreet one day. I love my FMF powercore on my KLR, but i keep me stock exhaust if i needed it. It is amazing how much attention these dual sports get going through town with loud exhausts. Put your stock pipe on and go through a small town. No one bats an eye.
This is good advice. I have a '23 KLR Traveler, and of course considering an aftermarket exhaust (probably LeoVince). But just as you said, I don't like drawing attention to myself whether it be citizens or police. The weight-loss advantage is negligible. De-snorkle the intake to make the Pig breath better and that will be enough.
I was wondering if a Storm Bee or an Ultra Bee might be better, especially if already into solar energy.....
Or even an add on muffler, silence is golden.
We had KLR250s at my unit in the Marines in the mid 90s, the stock exhaust allowed them to snoop and poop at low speed on certain operations.The visibility you get from standing on the bike allowed you to see more across tall reeds and grass and down into things.
To me this is the only advantage of a electric bike silence. Weather your hunting or being hunted silence is golden!
It’s so nice to see the Prep community finally catching up and intermingling with the biker community 🤘
Spot on.
I'm also glad that the tactical community finally embraced the airsoft community, now the biker community is joining the brotherhood, the 3d printing / maker community is also part of it now... I wonder when the rock climber community will join? Imagine the possibilities; Maybe abseiling has some tactical applications, or generally going places and traversing routes that are impossible to follow without proper equipment...
they all made it out the bunkers an from the basements playin fallout lol
It’s always dope when people who are enthusiastic about different shit find something in common they can geek out about together. Love to see it.
Survivalists have always used motorcycles, ever since the thought-meme began in the 70's.
In the famous old Jerry Ahern early 80's dime novel series The Survivalist, John Thomas Rourke traveled around on a Harley Low Rider, even going off-road with it, if you can believe that (OK, Jerry Ahern didn't know much about motorcycles. Traditionally, many famous professional Survivalists - writers, trainers, consultants, etc. - haven't specialized in motorcycles).
- KLR 650, customized with tube steel engine guard w/highway foot pegs, wheels blacked-out with Rustoleum Textured Black, mil-spec MOLLE tank vest (in coyote color).
I've been in a few SHTF scenarios. killer quakes, seasurges, civil unrest, war and stuff(I'm in the Philippines so it's normal sometimes). A bike is the only thing that worked most times. Except for civil unrest or war, travel during the first day is what id advise. And a bigger engine is not ideal. I have a 125scrambler that saved me a lot of times and allowed me to go places other vehicles can't. As for gear and stuff. Most cases things happened all I had access to realistically was a knife. And I can't tell you how important rubber strips are. I've used them for hunting fish into a spearpole, animal traps, bird traps, homemade slingshot with a small pointed projectile. Also small bikes don't need a lot of maintenance. One earthquake couldn't get gas due to long lines. Had to work with a quarter tank that gave me sixty kilometers. Couldn't pass roads. So I followed the train tracks all the while saying my bike can take it. Found my wife and her family. Stayed with them till things were safe. It was also real quiet. Can even climb stairwells and light enough to be carried over a wall by a couple guys if needed(during the lockdown we did this to avoid checkpoints). Only thing I'd add is some electrolytes as riding in an emergency it's enough to keep you going along with some water.
Very independent 👍👍
Avoiding lockdown checkpoints by hopping walls? We need more people like you
Props to my Pinoy brothers that resisted and continue to resist the tyranny there. My plans to go back in 2021 were thwarted by jab checkpoints at airports and mask requirements on flights (I refused to mask from day one, which ultimately led to having to find a new job). Here in the states, I avoided lockdown checkpoints by ... wait, I didn't avoid them, I intentionally and blatantly defied them. I don't live in Colorado, but It's nearby and when they announced total lockdown, my anti-tyranny mentality hit overdrive and I decided to drive through the entire state and a few others in defiance. I expected at minimum to be harrassed, if not arrested for my defiance, but even the police in Commierado bought into the fear narrative and weren't out enforcing anything. It was very eerily like an old twilight zone episode while driving through Denver with absolutely no traffic during what would normally be morning rush hour. What really blew my mind and continues to blow my mind is the fact that so many people refused to think independently, or do a lick of independent research, before buying into all the fear-mongering and jab coercion.
better with a pushbike in a real SHT
@@j_rainsgoat3929 it oral rehydration salts. Contains sugars, potassium and other stuff needed for metabolism. Combined with water, it's equivalent to a meals worth of energy and will keep you alive. It's light and easy to carry than food, though you'd still be hungry but your body won't give out. It's available in pharmacies.
It's absolutely worth adding a SteelStik to your tool kit. I've patched a quarter sized hole in a crank case with it, waited an hour, refilled my oil and rode out of the woods.
Excellent advice. That and mechanic's wire.
works on a radiator in a pinch as well lol
The Film crew and editors are absolutely killing it, great job.
We've actually discussed this. As a 40 year desert racer, I like the idea of fast, nimble transport that doesn't need roads. Have to be careful, because you aren't particularly stealthy, but at times there is probably no better option.
Do they make mufflers that will quiet them down?
I remember seeing some footage of Ukrainian AT teams using electric dirt bikes to shoot and scoot early in the war.
@@lionsofcornwall8475 Yes. You can quiet them down, but you lose performance. It's a trade off.
@@dankingjr.2088 you lose performance, but is it harder on the bike?
I’ll stick with my stock KLX muffler. Quiet, and great performance. The after market sounds cool, but when stealth is required, nothing beats the stock muffler.
I will tell you after surviving the biggest city wildfire ever that motorcycles were the only means of motorized transportation that stayed forward in an SHTF situation. Nothing other than bikes fit in areas and went where nothing else could. You are right on track here good content.
What fire are you refering to?
Gosh darnit I need me a bike
@@harnishc Camp fire in Paradise Ca.
@@scottwood1953 For Woolsey I got my fam out on a '81 Honda. I had a blast too.
I would highly suggest the dr550, drz400, klx300, tw200, trail 125 as alternatives. The dr bikes have insanely easy maintenance. Don’t fear the carbs!
I've been riding for at least 45 years, this has always been in my thoughts. A nimble street/dirt bike is invaluable.
Handy tip to those receptive, put trials bike wheels+tires on your bugout dirt bike. They can run as low as 4 psi for insane grip on anything (yes, anything) and conveniently almost never get punctured or go flat.
Also general advice, if you want to go next level with your diet bike... buy a trials bike to train on. Best learning tool money can buy, old ones can go for very little money too
It would be pretty cool to add blackout lights for riding with nvgs.
And kill switches for the break/ running lights.
Oh it’s on the list haha
@@christian_guzman you’ve inspired me to take the 450 and rig her out haha did you get the bike wrapped or did you get a plastic kit?
@@Shootmoresuckless nice! I wash had a 450!
I just wrapped my factory red plastics with a heavy duty vinyl made by imagecraft. Easy enough to do!
@@christian_guzman sweet, I’ll have to start looking for some. I’m rocking a ktm 450 she’s good enough to get the job done but I’ve been wanting to get into a Honda again.
I think the next big bike purchase will be a Honda Africa twin tho haha
Like you said in the vid, maintenance on Hondas is pretty much full proof and cheap haha
There’s going to be a learning curve for riding under nods. Even driving under nods take alot of practice. Your depth perception under nods is a little different than without. It is very minute, but just a few inches could result in a nice spill.
Going moto camping is a great way to gain survival skills when you can't have everything too. You pack in and out small and find out what you need and what is excess. Can't wait to get out there this motorcycle season to film, camp, and learn new skills to share with my group and others.
If you really want to figure out what you need hike in a long way or spend two nights out hiking each day. That way you are willing to carry. Having the bike after that as a "beast" of burden is a luxury and you can either keep it real light as if you were hiking or load the bike up with extras on like more tools, parts or sustenance items.
Agreed.. welcome to motor camping.
Agree. I’ve camped many times in the UP Michigan on my VFR750. Great way to learn minimalist camping and enjoy the experience of it all.
As a retired Marine and a retired LEO as well as a former government contractor. A properly outfitted dual sport or adventure bike is the only way to go. Fast enough, nimble, great fuel mileage, ability to carry a moderate load.
John???............... John Rambo???........ is that you???
Don't be jealous
Some very good points on the Urban areas, another great benefit to the bike is that you can squeeze it through a normal door so you can hide it inside/out of sight if needed. Less chance of it being discovered, stolen, or fuel syphoned.
If you can brace it you might also be able to setup a lean-to tarp on the bike to keep close to it. I haven’t tested it myself, but when I get my bike I definitely plan to.
I used to race MX and dirt ride on a budget. One thing I learned was not to fully tighten levers, mirrors (on the dual sport) especially on the bars. If you dump the bike, they can roll around the bars rather than break. Obviously they have to be tight enough to not move under normal riding conditions. Not breaking stuff you can't replace would be vital if SHTF.
One method was to drill a small hole through the levers just beyond what you absolutely need for your fingers. In a crash the outer part can break away leaving a usable part.
Wrap thread seal tape underneath the clamps on the bars and tighten it down. It will be secure enough under normal riding use but under some added pressure or if you lay the bike down they will move and avoid breaking.
I’ve heard of people wrapping Teflon tape on the bars were the mirrors and levers clip on and it helps them spin on the bars when impacted
You don't need mirrors in SHTF, but the rest of your statement is important to keep from breaking.
I'm an engineer and prepper myself and I love how you explain speed vs reliability. In engineering, everything is a compromise, you can have a perfect race bike that has poor distance reliability or the opposite, but not both. Thanks for the video, keep making them please. Also, I'm a HAM radio operator and wonder what you guys do for off-grid communications other than CB radios or GMRS radios.
Ham radios without a license I bet lol
As you are probably well aware, ham signals are easily tuned into. As far as I am aware, ham is very low security. I do believe you can get secure frequency communication devices. However, they are probably expensive.
@@PaddleSquatch I do not believe there will be an everyday need for "secure" comms during an event which would require the use of ham radios for emergency purposes. 99.99% of the population do not own a ham radio and are not licensed to use ham radios (according to the FCC, there are a little over 500,000 ham operators in the US), which means they never studied to passed the test for ham radio usage. Additionally, by working with you rlocal prep group, you can have pre-arranged words and signals that only your local prep group will know what they mean, and so the very few people who will also have a ham radio and know how to use it won't understand what you're saying. Of the little over 500,000 licensed ham operators, only about half are active and have a radio according to the FCC. I do believe that having comms is one of the most overlooked important items when planning for survival gear packs, or disasters.
@@TexMexTravelerwhere do u need a license for hams
@@youtubeistrash2347 Yes, most countries, including the United States, require prospective ham radio operators to pass a test to be granted a license. This is mainly due to safety as antenna radiation can harm someone if they are handled incorrectly, and for the different types of legal usage. In the U.S., it is the Federal Communications Commission, or FCC. that regulates ham radio usage and testing.
It seems to me like a niche, but really useful setup would be to have an electric dirt bike to minimize sound signature and increase fuel availability in SHTF. You could install infrared headlights on it to work with NOD's for stealthy riding at night. There are definitely disadvantages to this setup (mainly charge time and electric infrastructure requirements), but I do think it would fill a certain role quite nicely.
Electric dirt bikes have horrible range especially in winter
Getting an electric generator like a Jackery or BluEti would be good for this kind of setup. Camp out somewhere for an hour while it is juicing up. I would argue an E-Bike is better, though. When it is low on battery, you can still pedal like a normal bike. Also, I'm pretty sure some E bikes can recharge from pedaling, kind of like those crank radios.
@@DZ4295DBW Hopefully they'll catch up with electric car development and be a genuine option in the next few years. Companies like Solar, SurRon, and Zero are doing some cool things and pushing the envelope.
@@Necromorph72i don't think they will ever. Physics just work aginst them. The two main reasons why electric cars have decent to good range these days is because a) weight doesn't matter so you can have a big battery. b) electric cars can be engineered to be very aerodynamical, with a motorcycle you'll never reach that since the rider is the main thing resisting the wind
@@schadowization Ohh well, we can't really have it all, sigh.
As a rider myself, in woods and hare-scramble type riding/racing, don't give up on that CRF230. I own one, they are bulletproof and perform well if modded right. The perfect bike for this. Air-cooled so drop it as much as you like, no radiators to puncture, only a couple inches shorter than a full sized bike. So many mods to be found to make them awesome bikes without having to spend 6-10k for something orange. I have to agree with @vorteco7692, ditch that aftermarket exhaust and get a factory one installed, remove the airbox snorkel, and re-jet the carb. Starting with a 120main, and a 45-48 pilot jet really helps wake the bike up. If you're still searching for more power, get an aftermarket header and install it with the factory exhaust to keep things quiet, but increase flow as the 230 shares the same header pipe as the 150F. Awesome video
The biggest plus to me in a bug out bike is simplicity, a dual sport that is air cooled and still uses a carburetor has half the things that could go wrong as a water cooled and fuel injected bike. The DR650 or TW200 are two wheel tanks and have been around forever and have tons of aftermarket accessories for them.
DRZ 400 is the perfect combination of the two. Enough power to run when you need to yet small enough for the single tracks. I love mine!
I don't much about dirt bikes but are most water cooled fuel injected now? I remember seeing someone on a 2 stroke on a farm when I was a kid and the speed/sound and smell was amazing!
I agree on the air-cooled stuff. I'd just add a Lectron or SmartCarb for ultimate reliability regardless of elevation
XR 650 would be the best all-rounder if you can find one
Totally agree. Less is more. Relying on tech is a bad move.
I bought a DR650 a few years ago and it was completely unrelated at the time to my “gun life” if you will. And I really only bought it because it was a good deal. But the more I got into it I realized the connections that could be made between the two. I’m glad to see you guys pushing this for others
"Gun life" should really mean "militia life". The core of 2A is American citizens being armed, trained, equipped and ready for war. The American people (not government) is supposed to be the core of are military power.
@@skydivingcomrade1648 Amen!
Very true Mitch! The mobility aspect of a dual sport motorcycle is excellent.
Are Dr650s still sold in USA?
@@punyaslokmohapatra7528 They are. The price is about the same also. Great bike!
Id love to see a part 2 talking about "tactical" riding gear, a gun mount, a helmet that could be used with said gun, helmets with built in radios, and way to mount a loaded bike onto an existing overlanding rig/ main camp.
Rugged radios makes a moto kit for their “v3” radio… which is just a re branded baofeng uv5r. Has a push to talk to go on the bars, speakers and a mic for the helmet. Radio can be put in a backpack or on a rig.
Great run down on adding this option to the Prepared kit bag. Which dual sport is arguable, I value reliability and ease of maintenance more. For me it’s comforting that I know how to ride, in case the situation required it. It’s tough and expensive to have all the resources and skills to be 100% prepared, which is why it actually takes a trusted and mutually supportive community.
I rode a dirt bike for the first time last year at 38 years old. I immediately thought how great they could be for prepping,bug out and recon
Oh yes they are SF gets these little bastards and get to look high speed asf with them
As a multiple times over Combat Veteran … You boys are doing it Very Very Right and in a lot of ways at that.
Also, if “they” are making fun of you about anything that’s how you know you’re doing it Right!!
Fantastic stuff keep it coming!! 💪
Concur. Just watched this one as my first example of their shizzle-dizzle, and the compliment is an earned one.
I've ben retired 3 years as of last month but y last unit was a Pararescue Wing (Born Infantry, but retired wit y own Chair (Force) up on the flight deck of an MC-130P Combat Shadow (I was the very last Flight Engineer to retire the very last Shadow out of the System...retiring 'cuz it's not "OK to be -J") with some time wrenching and spark chasing on sand infested flying egg-beaters in between.
Active Duty flying for the Silicon Valley Guard (Combat Search And Rescue), when CONUS we hit up every natural disaster area within striking distance of a fat and gassy gal and a pair of PaveHawks that had a hankerin' for tuckin' down low and fighting between themselves over my glorious wet hose (don't hate the Player...hate the Game), and I got to see a lot of what did and what didn't work out for the folks down on the deck in Hurricane Alley...not to mention playing with the PJ' spoiled Big Boy's Toys.
Been riding God knows how many legacy Gen One KLRs over enough years to make the old blind and deaf dog in the corner would get up and offer me his spot to sit out of deference to his elders. I've toyed around with most other stuff out on the market at one point or another as I have been riding whatever I could lay my hands on and burn off someone else's gas in the tank.
EXCEPT, ... not the Diesel flavor (among other fuels) of overlander KLR scoot scoots that airdrop quite nicely, but never manage to make it onto the gub'ment DRMO auction circuit.
At least...
Not yet.
Concur as well on the comment that if they are making fun of you, you are probably doing it right. I'm 47 and Silicon Valley has kicked out a few Unicorns from startup ideations that began life as a snickering joke that somebody later on in local life really wished they'd STFU about and taken the investor's plunge (my High School class kicked out more than a few Founders and Founder's core Teammates, all of whom hit figure #7 in their 20s before they ever changed diaper #1 (I was not so wise and sage...my boy is now 26 and I didn't move that same decimal point over until well into year 44 and divorce numero two-o - got the notification RIGHT after I retired that old 1Jody was back to his plumbing trades again, and had been hitting up my AO once more. :-/ )
These youngsters with this channel are trackin' proper and earned a subscribed follow.
When it's time for the video on bugout ragwing taildraggers with no engine driven electrical system (slant X-Ray) to get made, come holler (I'm easy to find on here, and fly/hangared out of KLVK, live on 18 ranch acres nearly between KCPU and KJAQ)
Keep it up, fellerz (uh...I meant the work on the CHANNEL...no, I did NOT mean to snitch one of my little blue pills, yo.)
TSgt "Farva" (RET)
West Coast Rescue;
(12oz curl undefeated champion)
(Can still bench 240...with duct tape and 2 Edward FortyHands full o' Mickey's)
I’d also recommend a folding saw, like a ‘Silky BigBoy’. They’re light, compact, and can (quietly, and quickly) rip through most logs.
21 inch (common and easily replacable blade size) folding bow saws are absolutely a must just to own in general, and could be easily slipped onto some straps on a bike.
if i may, got the silky sugoi and katanaboy and i vastly prefer the much smaller sugoi. additionally, check out the single wheel trailer for dirtbikes, video here on youtube of it.
Spent time in the military. Saw many usage of dirt bikes in operations. I was never interested in the riding lifestyle outside. Then we experienced the pandemic, I had to to moved and was without any kind of transportation for sometime. Seeing how things are now, had I known what you guys are doing I would have jumped on the setup sooner. Anyways, dirt bikes are awesome and yes I'm into the prepared community now much more so than ever. This is a good resource for starting out. 👍👍
Your production value is ridiculous. Absolutely spectacular job laying out and presenting your information in an easy to digest way. Liked and subbed.
FR, these guys don’t even have 50k subs and I can almost guarantee they’ll hit at least 500k within the next 2-3 years with production value like this.
Bang on. My channel is basic(different format) but this is epic.
I agree. No waffle or stupid jokes. Informative but entertaining
If you're going to use this as a bug out bike I'd HIGHLY recommend running a mousse instead of a tube, completely puncture proof and will practically never run flat. They last me usually 3-4 tire changes and I've grown to prefer them over tubes in feel and traction. Virtually every team races them in the Baja 1000 and that should tell you all you need to know.
This video inspired me to reach out to a friend who rides trails and have him help me learn. Boy is this harder than it looks. Definitely bruised and bleeding but the capability is an important one. I’ll keep working towards it 💪
Its slower but bike packing community could add to this conversation too. Mtn bikes are a quieter and even smaller footprint. It also adds to ones fitness level as a sport
France had bicycle calvary in WW2.
I’ve been trying to get my friends to get dirt bikes the last 4 years for this exact purpose! This is gonna yet another reason for them to finally get one! Thank you!
I’ve recently developed the habit of dropping everything when Dirty Civilian uploads.
Well done guys! I’ve been on 2 wheels for almost my entire life. Dirt bikes are the mountain goat of vehicles!
Best lesson I ever got was “learn how to fall off properly!”
Looking forward to more!
During Hurricane Hugo the day after the storm there were so many trees down along with debris that the only way to get around was with a motorcycle, me and my Freind were able to survey the damage and go to supply sites for water and food and didn’t have to worry about gas for awhile, it made a bad event more enjoyable.
The military has utilized the KLR 650 with a dual wheel drive and a diesel engine. I've been told this can also be set up to utilize multiple fuel sources. I found this while researching for a "custom" bike base to start a project to meet the needs for an Infantry man and family member.
I personally chose to build an elec. Sport bike, full black out controls, FLIR Nav, GPS, and charges from PURE low grade solar at home, and can also utilize up to level 2 charging.
I am not aware of the dual powered wheels...are you sure about that?...Rokon is one of the only i jnow of.
@@reidcrosby6241 not the trailbreaker, though spectacular. I believe kawi, but don't quote here. Yes, thinking 650 single, carb, left side chain drive with cover, to universal shaft drive to comp for steering. Don't recall the '"final" drive from u joint down forks to wheel. Very, very, very limited. Maybe proto? Maybe it wasn't Kawasaki at all, but I really remember it that way lol. Idk I'll look when free tho.
How long does charging take on low grade solar to 100%
How long know level 2 charging
And what's the max range
@@isaacfulton7731 not GREAT TBO, lol. Roughly 12-14hrs(still tinkering) on solar, less than maybe 45mins lvl 2/240v, and range varies A LOT. In reg. Usually around 45mph commute city can see 70-100 miles very conservative, and 45-60 miles if you are hard on the take offs, speeds, and don't use Regen brakes often. Regen does also recharge well. I'm VERY new and learning as I go so nothing is solid. Hope this helps. I take a hit on the solar charge as a trade-off to completely renewable energy for my battery vs. Coal or natural gas. I'm also pretty bad at TH-cam but I should probably make a video about this lol.
@@AerialAcesRC13 it'd be cool if you could get a foldable portable panel set up. It's simple enough to bring 2 extra gallons and double range on a gas bike. If you could you can make your range "infinite" albeit slow. It would be Worth it
I am new to your channel, I just wanted to say great job, the camera work, editing, and info given was first rate.
everyone is new this channel man
Brilliant! I'd use an XR250 though. Less moving parts and less problems. Way more reliable, but that's just my opinion, from owning a XR's my whole life. My 1999 250 started on the 3rd kick for the 1st time riding it in 6 years. Can't beat that engine.
I agree! Rode a ‘95 for years. Got a new XR650L now and it’s a hell of a bike for ANYTHING! Ride safe, stay safe, stay vigilant!
@@TheMotorman116is an xr150l good?
@@codealtf4logn779 honestly I haven’t researched those much, but I would suspect it’d be very reliable. I think that engine is based on the old XR100 , or possibly XR200. Both of which are great motors. Being only 150cc it will lack a bit on power for heavy loads, but it’ll be great on fuel!
In 2010 I bought a used but already plated 2002 Honda XR400. I then added a Garmin 276c, a 4g IMS tank, a set of Dunlop 606 dual sport tires and re-geared for highway use. I then proceeded to ride it from Houston TX to Portland OR and back over a 29 day ride. It was unknown how much use or miles it had already been over the first 8 years as there is not a gauge on a stock XR but I put it through about 7500 miles in just over a month of riding everything from Interstate highways to long lost cattle trails and dirt roads. After a couple months had passed after my return I decided to give the engine an overhaul and preventative maintenance. I added a 440cc kit which helps for on-road performance but really wasn't that necessary. The overall internal condition of the engine was amazingly well within specs. Then in 2015 I trailer the XR400 to Pikes Peak CO with a group of friends attempting the annual race up Pikes Peak. While they returned home with the race bikes and the chase vehicles, I rode the dirt roads up and over the bottom side of the mountain, crossing the inner Colorado mountain passes and landing in Durango CO before heading south again in into rural NM and on back to my home in TX. That week I added another 2700 miles of hard dual sport riding. I would no hesitate to use my trusty XR400 in a "bug out" scenario.
Thanks for the video, cool to see others thinking similarly.
Been doing this for years, glad to see y'all are on board 🙂 Now if I can make a suggestion; 230/250cc will not cut it if you are evading a threat in a straight line, 450r/650cc are gonna be quick in a straight and still nimble enough in the single tracks while not sacrificing anything towards maintenance intervals. Also a packed out bike is much less nimble than a slick side bike, therefore in my experience a "lighter" backpack is the way to go with only extra fuel and tools on bike. When I say lighter backpack I mean think backpacking, ounces are pounds, take only bare essentials, no comforts. You don't need a tent, you don't need a sleeping pad. You need water purification, food, fire starting and a way to stay warm and dry. I love the idea of having a way to camouflage the bike in case you need to push on without it for a bit but you're not ditching it and this is really not a primary solution as you've said it's something to use for recce/forward observation or a quick push out ahead of your crew. Keep up the good work and I'm really digging the content 👍 solid stuff.
@MEOW MEOW N- Honda 650L I had a 400sm they are drastically under powered and you'll be searching for a nonexistent 6th gear 🤣 you can do a stroker kit and big bore out to 450ish and put on a mikuni carb slightly larger than stock and it will give it ok power but you're into the 1,000's on that upgrade.
@@shockadellick sure but there’s no way im taking a dr200 on the freeway in the meantime
@@Weltbummler23
On doom's day the freeway will be locked tight from coast to coast. That said, you'll need to make your own roads and like I said, 150cc to 400cc air cooled will give you the best chance at it🤨
@@shockadellick talking bout meantime before doom
I agree with you, but imo 650's chug a lot of gas compared to smaller displacement bikes, so it somehow defeats the purpose. Eitherway, it depends on the owner's preference...
I'm a South African who focuses on emergency preparedness, my main channel is a preparedness channel, I currently own a Honda Transalp xl 700 for its reliability. This was an excellent video, ''Be prepared'' - Scouts Global.
Rode all thru high school and a few years after. Haven't rode in almost 15 years now. Just got an xr150L to get used to everything again. Feels great. Really compliments the lifestyle of preparedness
My choice was the Suzuki DR450 for the same reasons stated in your video.
I also like that they've changed so little since the 80s, which means aftermarket parts are cheap.
Love the video.
DDrz400sis what you mean im thinking
Did you mean the DR650?
@@ACRONS047 typo. Yes..
We call them bush pigs here.
I've been racing and riding Enduro for nearly 20 years and using my bike as a form of "bug out" rig has never crossed my mind until now so thank you for bringing that to light. I can see a million and one uses for a bike now that I think about it.
dirtbikes have been a cornerstone of rural life and survival for decades. The KLR and DR have been the go to bikes for years.
It will be interesting to see how you progress with this.
Dirt bikes would be a great way to leave an urban environment.
I've owned a DR350 for going on 20 years. It's been great.
Awesome video, built up a XR400R bout 12 years ago with 23L tank, saddle bags, 200 watt stator, added a lithium battery, tricked up the suspension and engine a little, its great for getting out bush for riding camping hunting etc, keep up the good work men
I absolutely loved my cr250f. I put a 280 kit in it, Rekluse clutch, and exhaust. I regularly chose it over my 450. It really was the perfect dirt bike imho
You are so right! I have the Crf250L and it got me threw the high gas prices in the pandemic and its way more capable than a 4x4 truck and even an ATV. Something everyone should have in a national emergency. Two thumbs up for this video
Depends what capability you need. Yes, a bike can handle more technical, narrow trails. But if you need to haul 4 people and a bunch of supplies in one trip, and no off-roading, you need the 4x4 with a trailer.
👍
I have a triumph scrambler that I've turned into a camping/ overlanding vehicle. It's not as light or nimble as a dirt bike but it's quieter, over 150 mile range, and the maintenance interval is 10,000 miles
In my younger days in Austin, Texas, I rolled a KLR650 for years; put over 75,000 miles on it... daily commuter and just cruising. Now I'm looking at a 400 or 250cc bike; way lighter and...faster if necessary. Will jock it up like you guys are doing. Been looking at some of the new electric bikes; way more quiet and can be modded out with a solar panel...just thinking out loud. Great video.
yep 63 bones dont take the abuse like when I was 30-40 or even 50.
This could be SO fun and chill but you guys make it so anxious, severe and technical.
Don't forget to enjoy yourselves 😁😁😁
Great production btw! Cinematography and editing are top notch 👍
that's the selling point for most of these "Prepper" turned Turned "Doomer Tubers" and they have plenty of good info but its all predicated on a mythological state of affairs for Most People
Seemed like they were laughing & having fun the whole time🎉
@@allenjohnson4938just ask the Israeli people about the mythical stuff they’re going through right now!
I didn’t feel an ounce of fear here. It’s a serious topic discussed seriously. Nothing wrong with that.
If you felt fear it’s already in your head so work on that asap
I’ve been advocating for these skills amongst the dirty civs for years. Glad to see y’all talking about it.
I have a Lectric Ebike. They are pretty inexpensive and give me 25 ish mile range to visit and return from local sites quietly. It’s also legally a bicycle, so I can take it on trails and sidewalks and in parks.
YES BUT YOU CAN'T BUG OUT ON
IT. TRY LOADING IT UP WITH YOUR
GEAR AND PLATE CARRIER AND
YOU WILL BE AT A HUGE DISADVANTAGE TRYING TO CHARGE
IT,VERSES GETTING A COUPLE OF
GALLONS HERE AND THERE FROM
BROKEN DOWN AUTOMOBILES...
@@jeffreyhanshawsr4884 I personally have a DR650 with an oversized 6.6 gallon tank and an auxiliary 1 gallon tank mounted to the side..... But there's something to be said for a completely silent electric bike that can be solar charged in a few hours
@@jeffreyhanshawsr4884 bro chill, he was stating what he has and how he uses, he didn’t suggest it.
Besides an e-bike can be recharge solar
E-bikes are perfect scout vehicles, and with a trailer and solar panels you have virtually unlimited range. I found a solar panel "blanket" that produces 100w and could charge batteries while running, as a cover for a trailer.
No one thing is perfect for every environment or situation. Ideally, having a side x side with the e-bike on the back would cover a lot of situations if you are traveling with others. Use the bike to scout, then contact the person(s) in the 4-wheeler.
The important thing is to share ideas, not knock anyone's choices. We're all Dirty Civilians, and all we have is each other.
While it would be great to call in air support to move us, we don't get that luxury.
Unless one of you guys have a chopper.
If you do, can we be friends?
Stay strong.
We have QuietKat eBikes for hunting and its a big part of our bug-out plan. I bring an extra battery and a solar charger so I always have a battery getting charged while we're at camp. Sure it's limited on range and take a while to charge on solar, but it's dead quiet which is a huge advantage over a traditional dirt bikes. Best part is if the battery dies it's still a bicycle that you can pedal.
Definitely need a whole series filmed around Dual Sports. Camping, Mods, etc
this is some high-quality stuff you got here The camara work is immaculate and the editing is amazing
My DR 650 stays in my stable because it's so versatile. It wouldn't care about an EMP, doesn't require an electric fuel pump, and can maintain 70 mph loaded with luggage or walk down rough trails easily due to being so torquey and a low seat height makes it easy. Great video! Dual sports are a tool.
Drew guzzling the raw milk is a mood. Love the content, got my KLR just for the reason of preparedness.
I haven't had to use mine for anything too hardcore yet, but it's gotten me to work and back during a few floods in waters that were a little too deep for my car to make it through!
This is excellent material and timely for me.I recently rescued a 2012 CBR250 where it had been stored unmothballed in a garage for 7+ years. After some cleaning and wrenching to get it running I've started the process of turning it into a combination naked street fighter and dual sport. We have UTV trails connecting where I am with where I want to go and I want the option to go off road faster than with my mountain pedal bike.. Limited cargo capacity requires a lot of thought and I'm enjoying the process.
I was a motorcycle mechanic before i got MS, so ive been thinking about this for a long time. Ive had just about every 250cc-650cc dual sport, and none of them have as good a range as i wanted. Think the best i got was around 45mpg, my harley sportster gets 68mpg, so im building myself a "dirtster" to haul a bit more gear/fuel, and have way more range.
Get really good at bump starting your bike if it has no kickstart, huge percent of bike start problems are battery related, they are pretty reliable otherwise.
I think looking less tacticool is probably safer in an emergency, i also think it is good to have your gear pre sorted, so stuff youd take if you ran out of gas and had to ditch your bike, if you can just cash your saddle bags, and walk off with your backpacking bag. If your bike got taken out by a bullet, you want to get away fast, not dig for spare ammo you put in bottom of saddle bags to have the weight lower for better handling.
This looks like a Christopher Nolan film and I’m here for it! Such sick content !
Loud exhaust's are great for clearing a path of wildlife but cause exhaustion and later in life heart problems. Also I would have a spare set of tires or preferably wheels. I would say upgrade the headlight bulb to leds same with the tail light and get a lighter battery, also bash guard, better air filter thats washable. Depending on the bike if you have access to a dyno look at how other grades of fuel like 91 perform, usually considerably better and consider upgrading your chain and chain wheels to lower RPM to ride heavy miles. More than anything the rider should be fit and trim.
These bikes are all quiet from the factory
Ex-Leo here and i can say with utmost certainty we had a stolen dirt bike that we spent a lot of time hunting and every pursuit initiated on it resulted in him escaping to this day to my knowledge. The guy really knew how to get around that dense urban area so employeed it absolutely has a place in the prepper margin.
Bought a klx300 for sort of this reason. I'm 19, I see the climate our country is in, and if things were to go south it would serve me well, being cheap on gas, can basically go anywhere, and is very modular. For now though, I am going to use it for commuting and just as a daily driver.
Great Video. One suggestion would be to add a small bottle of fuel stabilizer just in case you have to leave your bike somewhere for more than 90 days. Gas goes bad and typically doesn't work after 3-6 months.
The fuel stabilizer will delay degradation. Twenty ounces will keep about 25 gallons of gas stable for two years or more depending upon storage conditions i.e. location, condition, container type, etc.
I’ve been deep into this for years. In addition to weapons, I have off road trucks, one adventure, two dual sport and two dirt bikes of the Toyota, KTM, Beta and Yamaha flavors. Oh, and don’t forget the fat tire eBike for situations where you want to get to a hunting spot quietly.
Yes.... These boys are just now realizing what some of us have been on for a while. 2001 Chevy S10 Zr2 and a 2020 KTM 390 ADV are my vehicles of choice for these situations.
We use quads and mini bikes on our homestead and love that you guys brought this subject up
After watching a ton of videos like this I got my barely used 2014 250L first motorcycle. Using it to save a ton of gas and found some nice sections of woods to get away in. Practical and reliable. Not sure when I will go for the cargo bags but Im thankful ive got a good hiling backpack i can stow camping gear in.
Where has this channel been my entire life? 😂 You guys are crushing it!
And the production quality of the video is just absolutely incredible
This is awesome that you bridge these together. This is one of the main reasons that I started riding. I'm in Georgia and I plan on doing the Smokey Mountain 500 next year on my KTM 690 and my son will be on his DR650.
im glad that i found this channel, it always has the most up to date and most relevant content for civilians
This was the video I needed. I decided last week I need to go this direction with a dual sport. I have never ridden and thought I was the only one who was seeing how useful they could be. Thanks for sharing this. So good.
I’ve seen your last couple videos and have been thoroughly impressed by the video quality. I hope you guys can spread this perspective of life to the masses
Coming from 15 years of racing and 20 years of riding a couple tips for your tool bag. Moose quick steel (job weld still) no point in carrying oil if you can't patch the hole in your clutch cover. Happens so easily, small tip over and brake pedal pops a nice hole. Ditch the big adj wrench for a smaller one and swap your spoons for one with with a box end side for your front axle nut and one for the rear axle nut. I understand the spark plug, but most modern 4 strokes are never going to have a plug related issue and usually the plug is recessed in the head far enough you need deep socket to get to it. I'm sure you have a multi tool so other than that I'd just toss in some zip ties and small roll of bailing wire. For the bike itself I'd definitely run UHD tubes, I prefer Michelin air stop, but the cheaper tusk ones are also fine. Maybe look into a Stainless reusable oil filter.
I'm turning my SXS into an overland vehicle but a ton of my buddies have bikes and I'm definitely getting more interested in having one or 2. We're in the desert so having any vehicle that can smash thru rough terrain is a must in my opinion. Keep up the solid work guys, love the content so far. 👌
The only advices I can give are:
1)NEVER ride alone in the forest
2)wear a little bit more protection
It's really easy to break an ankle or a rib if you fall, and it's gonna be really hard to get home. And then, if you need medical assistance, there's always someone else with you. Yes the Garmin is there to send SOS, but it won't work if you're unconscious. I know a guy who shattered a kidney hitting a tree while off roading, he came back home thanks to his friend who fixed his bike as best as he could, just enough to make it run. I know I sound like a worried mom but take this really seriously, from an experienced rider
Yeah man I broke my leg riding in the middle of the forest no signal had to limp my way out word experience of my life
Truth. You can get messed up real quick in the woods on a bike
Long time rider/ripper born and raised in Nebraska along the Missouri river, alot of different terrains in a lot of different types weather, I absolutely agree, and stand with this guys advise. riding in wooded areas is the absolute most dangerous environment and terrain you can be riding in or on the amount of hazards and possibilities of getting hurt in such a weird possible and "wouldn't have ever thought of that happening kind of way" are absolutely endless. I've had some close calls myself with bones or losing an eye from a tree branch that went though my oakley goggles that I am very fortunate I can call them "close calls" but I have witnessed the absolute worst of the worst with what could happen especially being newer or new to the enviroment and when not riding with the proper respect or lack of respect for your machine or yourself or others around you. watched a grown man hit a hidden stump on a pretty steep slope causing the machine to wheelie the front tires off the ground he didn't bail and the quad came back on him crushing his skull and knocking him out cold it took a few of us on bikes to get life flight waved in, into a open field area and then took the paramedics into the wooded area to get to him where they walked him out with the help of all of us in rotation carrying the stretcher. unfortunately the man didn't make it and left a wife with 2 kids in middle school. god rest his soul. just be careful my fellow riders on the streets or in the boonies just keep your head on a swivel and a buddy by your side as much as possible.
@@skylarmorehead9883 How did that happen while he wearing a helmet, or was he not wearing one?
@@colinm990 it’s a motorcycle helmet not Ironman’s head gear
I like this a lot. I definitely get oldschool garandthumb vibes, more focused on information, preparedness and awareness. Thanks for the content!
Impressive production quality, great job!
I really like this idea. I'm less than 100 miles from several public land hunting spots. Loading up, riding there, and filling up in town before going off grid sounds like such a good way to get deep into the woods very quickly.
My god, this production level is on par with TREX. Congrats on such a solid formula. You guys will definitely keep growing.
well, i mean, Drew Hopkins...
@@itsjustbrye Ah, I was trying to remember where I saw him. He doesn't pop up that much on the TREX videos, so I didn't make the connection. Thanks.
@@itsjustbrye Josh, Christian, and Nick also haha
discount lucath is catching up
Good video. I love trail bikes or Dual Sport bikes. When I got Stationed in San Diego in 2001 I bought a well used Yamaha XT600 and rode that thing as a daily for 4 years (minus 2 deployments). it had around 110,000 mi on it when I sold it. It was great for riding from Miramar up to Ramona and Julian and down into the Desert.
The spit take at the end made me chuckle. My friend has been trying to convince me to get an ATV, mostly as a toy, but this definitely gave me something to consider about the 2 wheeled counterparts.
You guys are raising the bar on content. Keep up the good work.
I feel like your bike fit out would be mission dependent kind of like your tactical gear. It’s more personal taste than right or wrong. The key takeaway is the dirt bike is extremely versatile and a fantastic tool for a doomsday scenario.
Yes but dirt bikes are not street legal until they are street legal
Not
@@prots Dual sport solves that problem.
I just picked up a crf300 yesterday. Now I need to camo wrap it now that I have seen yours. I am in texas so it's the law I must have an AR holster attached to the bike. My whole life is prepping. bug out camper, bunker at the city house, two tons of packaged wheat to support my squad. just waiting for the lights to go out, then the hardest part; trying not to act too excited that it's finally happening.
Someone down the comments said it and i agree
E-bikes are best. Pedal them when they run out, small solar chargers are made now for small electronics which can charge it while camped out. Pedaling/e braking also charges it.
They are also silent.
Dirtbikes need fuel. You will have to find it, and be killed trying to get it, or killed for the fuel you have for it already. E-bikes are stealthy, much more light and nimble, and are plenty quick they can hit near highway speeds on roads.
Edit: i have also had dirtbikes since i was 3 and i know the maintenance required. I also havent had a car in 6 years only travel by bike. So yeah. Parts availability once what you have is used is an issue too.
You hate it but mountain bikes with little batteries and electric motors on them is way better than your heavy motorcycles. Pack like a thru hiker with a gun and ammo, the bike can carry the weight when traveling on wheel. I would also pack a small fly rod with some flies and line. The rifle can hunt but a good fisherman can land 50 plus trout on a good stream in one day.
The Yamaha TW200 is a perfect bike for this. Built extremely rugged, comfy, and with some suspension upgrades you can carry alot of gear. New they are priced pretty low. It doesnt have the power like anything (its low) bit its a damned mountain goat and will go anywhere.
Just remember to keep that air cooled engine from overheating. I prefer them that way, but they have their limits. There was a video on YT where a guy was riding his TW on the highway and burned it up. It had plenty of air, just too many rpms for too long. The same thing could have happened on a hot day going slowly over rocks on a rough trail.
It can also be written off as farm equipment
@@nunya9555 I've kept mine at 7/8 throttle for 2 hours with no problem
Have you guys considered the Christini? He was (at one point) getting some funding from gov to design hybrid on his AWD system. But sadly gov pulled funding and he never finished the project of his rotary/electric hybrid that doubled as a field expedient electrical generator. I really wanted to see that come to be, I hope that he can finish that project some day
I'm glad to see you guys make this video. I've been a gun guy and rode motorcycles for years. Used to have a Honda CRF250L to explore off-road with. I figured at the time it was light enough to pick up multiple times as I practiced in soft sand alone. Now I ride a BMW R1200GS. Bigger and heavier, which isn't good for trails. But the trade off is that I can carry a lot more gear and commute comfortably on the freeway. I think if something bad happened and I had to get home or out of town I'd kind of rather use my bike than my 4X4 truck. Especially with debris and traffic jams. Again, thanks for the video. It's something that most people don't consider.
Aside from the gems provided in the video, the camera work and cinematic shots were amazing
I worked on the suspension for the Montague combat bicycle 20 years ago, this is common technology in the mountain biking/bike packing/bike adventure world. My personal preference is an Electric assist mountain bike, they're silent, have a top speed of 28 mph, they're brilliant for hunting too. Throw an off-road trailer on it and you can pack out game no problem.
I am BLOWN at how many of my interests and hobbies are being discussed by y'all. Jokes aside, it is incredibly validating to see the homies out there doing real stuff.
Fail
@@klxcountry ?
Agreed. Seems like the Western subconscious is preparing for something. Most males i know are on the same page. Carl Jung wrote about this pretty extensively.
@@percussivemaintenance7222 not sure any of this qualifies as "real stuff".
@@klxcountry compared to the overwhelming trend of disengaged youth devoid of tangible real life skills, I believe this qualifies.
Good advice!
The backpack is always a bad idea, on or off road. Get the weight directly on the bike. Your back will thank you. Do not forget that these lightweight dirt bikes were not built to take on a lot of weight out back. The subframe is usually very weak.
Maneuverability and fuel consumption are the big advantages of light dirt bikes.
Great camera! Awesome topic! Thank you
That ending clip was great.
I get the thought process of a 2 wheeled bike, but Ive been toying with the idea of a UTV quad for a couple years now... We have a Honda rancher and a Brute Force. They have the racks on the front and back. You can get get the hard cases that mount on them, gun racks, a winch and other similar mods as Christian put on his bike. They sometimes even have little tailgates/trunks on them so you can store stuff. You can pull heavy loads with a quad, like a trailer or downed tree.
I'm going with the quad. I have a trail bike also but will be easier to load all my gear and a lot more fuel on my my quads. My Ole lady and I are going to start rigging them up once we get moved
I am so impressed with this channel already! You guys have your sh!t together! Production quality is ON POINT, and the information given is invaluable. Looking forward to more excellent videos and content.
You nailed it get the Moskco Moto reckless 40L small enough for maneuverability & storage or Tusk saddle then a fork scabbard to carry a long/short firearm or fishing rod for you outdoor activity's. Leaving your body able to maneuver / navigate the terrain in a safer stance.
I agree on Honda reliability. We have a pair. 1985 250XR and 1986 200XR. All we have done to them is change the oil and rebuild the carbs one or twice since 1991.
I’ll tell you something, in the 70’’s in Africa the Kawasaki KLR was a popular vehicle used by the military with gun mounts FYI . There was platoon of them and they would normally scout in groups of around 4 ! The KLR as you would know it’s like a tractor ! Wire and pliers and tire repair kits was carried ! Enjoy !
The hdtm103m1, I almost got my hands on one my unit was tossing in the trash but I was pcsing at the time :'( a few months ago I got a 2023 klr 650 and I don't regret it at all as a commuter and trail bike
Bro that’s a pure lie the first KLR was made in 87 😂