READY TO RIDE
CHAPTER SIXTY-SEVEN
Welcome to chapter sixty-seven of our ‘Ready To Ride’ short stories series.
These are five quick snapshots of what we do, where we ride, the laughs had, and the general shenanigans and goings-on while riding together over the Himalayas & through South India.
I’m posting these every Friday, and they’re an easy read; a few minutes are all you need.
Enjoy!
Alex Pirie
Founder & Lead Rider
Let’s talk altitude (more specifically, altitude sickness)…
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can affect anyone at altitudes of over 2,500m and can be life-threatening. It occurs when the body lacks oxygen and has no connection to how fit you are.
In my experience, around 5% of our riders experience some symptoms of altitude, but never AMS. It’s never normally serious and is typically dealt with very quickly.
The symptoms are usually temporary, and can include headaches, nausea, dizziness and disrupted sleep. If this affects you while riding, you must stop immediately. Symptoms can be reduced by staying well hydrated and taking the Diamox brand tablets. Please bring your own supply.
You may not need them, but don’t take the chance.
Lastly, this isn’t a scaremongering mission; with great adventure comes potential risk, so awareness and communication are key to planning and executing adventures safely and responsibly.
Philosophy says nothing is ever encountered the same way twice.
Riding to Everest Base Camp definitely teaches that.
Every rider sees a different Everest.
The difference isn’t the mountain.
It’s the ride, the people, the conditions, the mind behind the handlebars.
Our 2027 Grand Canyon India rides are almost fully booked…
We weren’t lying when we said these rides get booked up quickly.
Kudos to the riders who’ll be joining us in January and February.
You’ll be starting your year in the vibrant lands of South India, riding smooth tarmac in 30°C sunshine on our recently customised motorcycle fleet.
If there’s one way to beat the winter blues, this is it.
The countdown is well and truly on, and we can’t wait to get back on the road.
Yes, the break is good, but it’s nothing like a motorcycle adventure.
I really can’t think of anywhere else on this planet that I would rather be this morning.
No drama, no outrage and a blissful feeling, immersed in nature.
South India is truly stunning.
Good morning from Mangalore.
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing” – Ranulph Fiennes.
Believe it or not, one of the most frequent questions I get asked is: “What’s the weather going to be like?”
The truth is, we don’t know.
We can hazard a guess, but as many experienced adventurers will know, the mountains will always keep us on our toes.
The best thing to do is to be prepared for any eventuality.
Waterproofs, layers, gloves – preparation is key.
As Mr Fiennes said, there’s no such thing as bad weather, after all.
Enjoy the ride.
I’ll see you on the next one.
JOIN THE
KNIGHT CLUB
So you’re considering taking on a real adventure? I remember the feeling. In 2006, I was sat right where you are now… wondering if it was for me.
Join our mailing list – The Knight Club – and I’ll send my no-BS thoughts on why you should (or shouldn’t) take it on. No sales. No special offers. These rides aren’t for everyone, but if you’re the right kind of person, it can remind you what it means to be alive.
All the best, Alex.