Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > 4 wheels > Equipping the Overland Vehicle
Equipping the Overland Vehicle Vehicle accessories - Making your home away from home comfortable, safe and reliable.
Photo by Daniel Rintz, Himba children, Namibia

The only impossible journey
is the one
you never begin

Photo by Daniel Rintz,
Himba children, Namibia



Overlanders Handbook - everything you need to know, available NOW!

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 31 May 2003
T&H T&H is offline
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: NFA
Posts: 10
5 or 6 Tyres?

We're planning an overland trip across Africa, much of which we hope to spent in and around the Sahara.
We're trying to keep things simple and light (cheap too) and wonder about the extra weight, bulk and cost of a sixth wheel and tyre.
We will do as much off-roading as poss but not being v. experienced, we won't go for anything too challenging. I hear many tales of people who just have a couple of punctures on complete overland journeys...
Any comments?
__________________
TonyP.
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 31 May 2003
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: France and UK
Posts: 156
‘How-many-tyres’ is a question often asked.
What use is a spare tyre if you have no puncture…
What use is a punctured car with no spare?
My midway solution is to carry:
One ready-made extra spare (that is two spares and four road wheels)
One unmounted tyre, outer cover
Two or three spare tubes
Valves and valve caps,
Set of BIG tyre levers
Puncture repair kit
Sidewall patches (now illegal in Europe)

The weight of the spare wheel is moderate, of the remainder it is negligible.
In several long desert trips across rock, sand, scrub and camel thorn, I have been puncture-free – but luck, not skill, probably played a part.
Desert taxis and locals run their tyres down to the canvas – amazing - and are always on the lookout for good outer covers.
Take as many old covers as you can carry – someone will be please to trade some service for them en-route.
If you are really weight-watching (and you should be), leave out the spare wheel, just take the additional tyre. Practice doing a wheel-change and puncture repair before you leave – it is a lot easier to perfect the technique at home, than to wrestle with unfamiliar tools and unpractised skills in the heat of the desert.
Bon Voyage…

------------------
Kitmax - Traveller
Desert Pictures at
http://www.kitmax.com/kitmax/kit03ph...velgallery.htm
homepage http://www.kitmax.com
__________________
Kitmax
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 31 May 2003
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Kent, Uk
Posts: 391
Hi T&H,

I have done the overland thing and spent nearly 3 years in Africa - I would not leave home without 2 spares - just my humble opinion.
Good luck with your trip and feel free to email me for any info.

Cheers

------------------
ChrisC
__________________
ChrisC
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 31 May 2003
Contributing Member
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Dec 1999
Location: Alice Springs, NT, Australia
Posts: 25
If you use Michelin XZY or XS tyres then you can get by with one spare. These have 14 ply side walls and are very tough. With any other tyre I would definitely take two spares.

When we travelled through Africa we had quite a few punctures till we purchased XZY Michelin tyres. With the Michelin's we have never! had a puncture. All the other overlanders we met running Michelin tyres had next to no tyre problems whilst those without had continual tyre problems.

The Michelin tyres cost more but they are really worth it. As per an AMEX card add here in Australia says - don't leave home without them.

Geoff
http://www.geocities.com/gkingsmill
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 31 May 2003
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: Cairo, Egypt
Posts: 456
... and a compressor to fill the tires back up after repair. Search this forum for more info on this subject.

------------------
A.B.

OasisPhoto.com – Images from the Magical Sahara.
ShortWheelbase.com – Jeep preparations.
__________________
A.B.
OasisPhoto.com – Images from the Magical Sahara.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 3 Jun 2003
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Scotland
Posts: 775
"All the other overlanders we met running Michelin tyres had next to no tyre problems whilst those without had continual tyre problems. "

Hmmm... One trip (Moroc) - BFG tyres - no punctures; another trip (Algeria) - Michelin XS - two punctures. Bugger! I must be doing something wrong ....

Rgds,
Roman (UK)
__________________
----------------
Roman (UK)
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 3 Jun 2003
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: Cairo, Egypt
Posts: 456
Good year Wrangler RTS, 3 years no punctures, then 3 punctures in one day 2 of them beyond repair...
I think there's a big element of luck here and also the way you drive and pick your tracks. I'd say in any case follow the advice mentioned above and you’ll be fine; especially the advice about getting your technique down at HOME.

------------------
A.B.

OasisPhoto.com – Images from the Magical Sahara.
ShortWheelbase.com – Jeep preparations.
__________________
A.B.
OasisPhoto.com – Images from the Magical Sahara.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 4 Jun 2003
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Porto, Portugal
Posts: 258
More data:

2 trips to Morocco and 1 trip to Morocco, Mauritania and Senegal = not a single puncture.

All trips done with Michelin tyres (All-Terrain and even the newer Synchrone)

José
__________________
Desert Crocodiles of Mauritania: http://cibio.up.pt/crocodilos/en
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 19 Jun 2003
T&H T&H is offline
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: NFA
Posts: 10
Thanks a bunch for the replies, sorry we didn't answer earlier but we've been away.
Kingsmill, we were also thinking that 5 Michelin XZY would do or 6 other branded tyres (which would give the peace of mind of having an extra spare in case of a split).
We have been recomended by our mechanic (an experienced African traveller) and read in various forums (although with some contradictions) that BFG Trac Edge are one of the best compromise for overland (tear & wear / go everywhere profile). Any suggestions on that?
We have also read that BFG/AT, although very good in the sand, do not take rocky pistes too well and start degrading quite rapidly. People have described them as similiarly performing/lasting (which worries us a bit).
Does anybody know if they use a harder compound on the Trac Edges?
If we go for that option, we will defenetly take 6 tyres with us.
Thanks again.
__________________
TonyP.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 19 Jun 2003
Robbert's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Gent, Belgium
Posts: 523
Very intresting ...

I always thought the AT would be more robust because it has better side wall protection.

Some experience from the field might proof different though.

Last year I used AT's on our trip to Algeria. We had no problems. On close inspection you can see some scars etc. in the rubber. I cannot compare this with other tires though.

cu,

Rob

[This message has been edited by Robbert (edited 19 June 2003).]
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 20 Jun 2003
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Scotland
Posts: 775
T&H,

Don't worry too much about tyres. What matters more than rubber compound is, IMHO, the size. If you stick to 7.50x16 (235/85/16) you can always get a replacement locally, even if you run out of spares. At the end of the day, it is just as much a matter of luck as brand name. And always retighten the wheel nuts yourself after having a tyre changed by a local mechanic.
__________________
----------------
Roman (UK)
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 20 Jun 2003
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: UK
Posts: 479
Heard the arguement many times before on sticking with 7.50x16 (235/85/16)due to availablility which is very true. However in the end, moved away from it to a BFG MT 265/75/16. Primariliy wanted a broader tyre due to the load / height of the modified 110. With roll cage, roof rack, roof tent, etc, the vehicle sits much better on the larger tyres. Have also found that MTs are a much better "all terrain" than the all terrains which I previously ran. We had six wheels trans africa which we definitely needed, personally wouldn't go with 5 regardless of how strong a compound they are. Found the MT's very good in the Sand as well as on the other terrains. Would only go for the larger tyre if you are carrying alot of weight / vehicle is sitting higher. If its running as a stock standard 90 then I would stick with the standard size and get the benefits of greater availability.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 20 Jun 2003
Robbert's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Gent, Belgium
Posts: 523
And what when traveling with a Disco? I'm running 225/75 which I think is a nice size for the Disco.
7.5's get a bit tall/ heavy on the transmition I guess. And for weight/space reasons I prefer to take 5 instead of 6 tires and keep the weight of the car low to reduce wear and risk of punctures etc.

And then take it easy off course.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 20 Jun 2003
T&H T&H is offline
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: NFA
Posts: 10
We have a Landcruiser HZJ75 and we'll try to keep the weight to a minimum. We've thought about wider tyres (for stability) as the LC trac is very narrow and looks a bit like a tall wobbly tower but we'll stick to the 7.5x16 for availability's sake.
We've also been advised against trac widdeners to avoid excessive strain on wheel bearings(?). So it looks like we'll have to keep a standard configuration.
__________________
TonyP.
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 23 Jun 2003
ctc ctc is offline
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Lincolnshire, England
Posts: 249
You dont mention whether you are a single vehicle or part of a larger group. If you are part of a larger group it would make sense to put similar tyres on all your vehicles and carry five wheels each and perhaps a spare tyre. The weight of a sixth tyre should be avoided if possible.

If you go for tubeless tyres ie 235/R16 BFG Trac Edge or AT for example, though excellent and extremely durable tyres, they are a bitch to reseat unless you run them with inner tubes (even if you carry a conmpressor) and are less available than standard 7.5 x R16 tyres in North Africa.

You may therefore want to consider going for standard landrover rims with Michelin XZY or XS tyres and appropriate inner tubes. These also have exceptional tread patterns and whilst perhaps being made from a slightly softer compound will be easier to repair and or replace en route.

Be warned that a lot of this comes down to personal preference!
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.

2024:

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

HUBBUK: info

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 19:07.