How to Prepare for a Desert Crossing by Motorcycle

Although the title speaks of a desert motorcycle crossing and most people might immediately imagine rolling dunes of sand, the reality is that you will encounter an extremely hostile terrain: rocks, sand, dead-end tracks, dry dust, and scattered scrub across the landscape — far more than the idyllic photos of riding through a golden sea at sunset.

In any case, we are not going to dive into the competitive world of rally raids. We are talking about a desert crossing understood as an excursion, a type of adventure that is attracting more and more riders and has created an entire professional lifestyle around it, whether by organizing these trips or providing logistical support.

We are also not referring to fully organized tours where you are given a bike ready to go with full mechanical backup — although that is certainly a very valid option and one that saves you additional trouble.

But if you are one of those who prefers to take on the adventure on your own and believe it is worth doing with your own motorcycle, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Type of Motorcycle

Enduro or trail? The route will largely determine the best choice — and of course, your budget has a say as well. If your trip includes a mix of asphalt, dirt, sand, and technical sections, you must think carefully about which option is more suitable.

An enduro bike is a great option because it is essentially a competition machine, with its pros (excellent power-to-weight ratio) and its cons (less comfort, higher wear, and more maintenance).

Trail bikes, on the other hand, are probably the best option for most riders for a desert crossing. They are highly reliable, more comfortable, mechanically easier to repair, and generally more durable.

Fuel Tank Capacity

At the very least, you should have an autonomy of around 200 km. If you can extend it further, even better — but 200 km is usually enough to reach a resupply point.

Tires

Regardless of brand, model, tread pattern, knob height, or density, what truly matters is having a solid puncture-resistant system.

There are many good options available: Tubliss systems, mousse inserts, self-sealing liquids, tire balls, and more. However, none are infallible, so carrying what you need for emergency repairs is always wise.

Tools

Many essential tools already come with the bike. For example, the toolkits included with KTM models allow you to handle most basic tasks.

The key factor in selecting additional tools is weight, which is always a disadvantage in desert riding. But above all, focus on usefulness. There is no point in carrying tools to solve a problem you do not know how to fix — although some argue they may still be useful if someone else can help you.

General Considerations

Always take into account your own limits, your physical condition, and your ability to solve problems. Your riding skills and your navigation experience are just as important.

It is always better to err on the side of caution than to face a truly bad situation in the middle of nowhere.

Now it is time to enjoy the ride — and above all, make sure your bike is in perfect mechanical condition and that your braking system is the best it can be: discs from NG Brakes, of course.