Want to cross the Pyrenees on two wheels without sticking to the tarmac? A network of gravel trails, rocky climbs and twisting mountain tracks offers an adventurous alternative, and you don’t need to be an off-road expert to tackle it. Here are five things ABR contributor Elissa Davies learned along the way.
The Pyrenees are adventure biking heaven. Stretching between the Mediterranean and Atlantic in France and Spain, these spectacular mountains offer some of the most challenging stretches of tarmac on the planet. Think the Col du Tourmalet, Col d’Ausbique, and more.
But what if you fancy tackling something a little more off the beaten track with some dirt and gravel under your tyres?
That’s exactly what Elissa Davies went in search of when she spent five days riding on and off road across the mountain range on a Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, accompanied by friends Ed and Andy on a Yamaha Ténéré 700 and Honda Africa Twin.
Their journey followed the Adventure Country Tracks (ACT) Pyrenees route, which links scenic trails and quiet backroads and has been plotted with larger adventure bikes in mind.
Here are five lessons they Elissa learned from her adventure.
1. You don’t need to be an off-road expert
Elissa had considerably less trail-riding experience than her companions, but that didn’t stop her completing the route.
She found there were plenty of relatively straightforward gravel trails, but also encountered rocky climbs, loose surfaces, and steep switchbacks where good off-road technique makes a big difference.
The key was riding at her own pace. It isn’t a race across the mountains. Give yourself time, ride with supportive friends, and be prepared to turn around if a section is beyond your ability.
2. Choose a bike that’s manageable
You don’t need an enduro bike. Elissa’s Himalayan 450 tackled rocky climbs, rutted woodland tracks, and loose gravel, while the Ténéré 700 and Africa Twin proved that larger adventure bikes can make the journey too.
But suitable tyres can make life considerably easier, particularly when the terrain gets wet.
3. Check the latest route information
Don’t assume every trail on your map or GPX file will be open.
Elissa discovered several off-road sections were closed because of access issues, forcing her onto the road. So, do some homework before you leave but be prepared to change your route and plans when the unexpected happens.
4. Don’t underestimate distances
A 150-mile day doesn’t sound particularly intimidating until a substantial chunk of it is off road.
Rocky climbs, switchbacks, and gravel trails dramatically reduce your average speed, while stopping for photographs, food, and the inevitable trailside bike repair eats into the day.
Plan lunch stops carefully too. Rural mountain cafés aren’t necessarily quick, and losing an hour or two over lunch can mean finishing in the dark. Carrying something to eat is a sensible backup.
5. Pack light, but prepare for mountain weather
Elissa and her companions admitted they overpacked, so be ruthless when deciding what goes onto the bike.
There is one area where you shouldn’t economise, though: weather protection. Conditions can change quickly in the Pyrenees, so pack layers and waterproofs even when the forecast looks promising.
Budget around £50-£70 per person per night for a simple hotel, and have a plan for fuel before starting longer off-road sections.
Do all that and you can concentrate on what you’ve travelled to the mountains for: mile after mile of spectacular trails on one hell of a motorcycle adventure.
You can get the full story of Elissa’s adventures in the Pyrenees in issue 93 of Adventure Bike Rider magazine. Get your copy today with free UK postage HERE.
