Ecuador Chronicles: Navigating with Assurance on a Ural Sidecar Motorcycle @robby 3 wheels
/I embarked on my around-the-world journey 2 years, 1 month, and 22 days ago, covering approximately 90,000 km across 54 countries. I navigated this global adventure from the helm of a Ural sidecar affectionately dubbed my "three legs" or "baby tank." What an incredible experience, my dear friends!
The primary objective of my expedition is motorcycle riding. Since the age of 13, I've been passionate about riding various motorcycles, including participating in the Dakar Rally on a KTM 525 and conquering the Golden Bowl on a Honda CBR 1000 RR in 2009, achieving a commendable classification.
Early on, riding motorcycles became a profound source of joy for me. Whether facing adverse weather conditions or effortlessly manoeuvring through challenging terrains, connecting with the machine and navigating the perfect corner or an improbable meeting is where my pleasure lies.
Having reached speeds of 300 mph on the track and 160 mph on sand, I've often been questioned about my choice of a Ural for a global journey instead of confining it to local use. The answer lies in its timeless charm, equipped with 2WD, reverse gear, and ample storage space.
A forthcoming video will delve into the dos and don'ts of utilizing this tank-like machine for an extended expedition.
My pride in both my journey and the Ural stems from navigating mountainous and desert roads; urban and highway terrains don't appeal to me on a three-wheeler. My preference lies in tackling broken roads and challenging tracks.
While I could opt for conventional routes, that doesn't resonate with me. My brand of happiness involves pushing limits, and what a gratifying pursuit it is!
As my mentor, Hubert Kriegel, often emphasized: "Take a chance one day!" Unbeknownst to me until I read it, I've embraced this philosophy since childhood. Whether as a cyclist, rugby player, scuba diver, triathlete, marathon runner, ball shooter, or serving in the army and police, skydiving and scuba diving, I've been fortunate to explore and surpass limits from a young age.
Choosing a Ural Motorcycle doesn't signify retirement for me; it's a natural extension of my life—a delightful and athletic challenge. I derive enjoyment, whether at low or high speeds (relative to the Ural, of course). Venturing into uncharted territories, such as the North Cape in Norway during winter at over minus 30 degrees Celsius, or Tuktoyaktuk in Canada, again in winter, at minus 40 degrees Celsius, allows me to discover this world and its extraordinary inhabitants through unconventional paths.
The journey is far from over. In the upcoming days, I'll encounter new challenges that you'll discover as I continue my pilgrimage. I must acknowledge the resilience of my Ural Ranger. Detractors may question, but at what cost! I faced an engine failure in Lithuania with my 2017 model and a broken crankshaft in Canada with my 2022 model. Despite these issues, both models have collectively surpassed 100,000 kilometres. Challenge anyone to find a machine in such conditions without mechanical concerns.
Currently in Ecuador, I'm gearing up for the southern continent, where the beloved mountains will take center stage. Planning to surpass the altitude of the first "base camp" in the Himalayas, the journey on three legs is bound to be exhilarating!
Despite the hiatus from so-called normal life, I cherish what I do. This post is dedicated to my two daughters, missed dearly, who share the same fiery spirit as their daddy.
For additional inquiries or more technical questions about my journey, feel free to ask through my Patreon.com account under the name Robby 3 Wheels. I look forward to responding.
Thank you for your continued support and following. This is a message from a Ural triathlete, endowed with a gift, striving to share it with you.
Enjoy the ride @Robby 3 Wheels!