Hi

i recently bought a 86 1VJ in reasonable condition and have been thinking of using her on a rally (Tuareg or El Chott) next year.

I ran her in the Cambrian Rally in Wales last month and she performed without fault, was comfortable and I really enjoyed riding her.

My question is quite simple - is this type of bike suitable for North Africa Rally Raid events? If so, does anyone know where I can get her kitted out - possibly beef up the suspension etc, upgrade the bash plate to include 4L of water, etc etc? ANY info would be welcome.

there does not seem to be much in the way of info on UK based websites for rally raid events. Any pointers? I believe that Belgarda (?) in Italy possible made a small number of bikes for rally events and I am aware that the XT was used effectively in the early Paris-Dakar years but am not sure if they were heavily modified or not?

Looking forward to your replies and guidance

Paul

Dave Lambeth Rally and Overland (01892 853913) knows about these bikes in desert rallies. Not the cheapest route, but thats England!

I have used my 3AJ in the Raid de l'Amitie (www.aio-france.com) in 2003 and this year. A bit heavy on the Moroccan stones but doable. You'll have no problem in the Tunesian sand however. Just be aware of the low power to weight ratio of the bike as compared to the newer 450's and the like.

The bash plate on the Tenere is perfect. If you just take a camelback and some water in bottles you'll do just fine. Then the luggage carrying capacity of the Tenere comes in handy.

Mods:
- Rear shock: replace
- Spokes: consider replacing with heavier, although not entirely necessary
- Airbox: close suction rubbers in front, remove air filter service hatch
- A good after market can would increase torque, which always comes in handy
- etc, make is as expensive as you like

A Tenere in reasonable condition will certainly finish an amateur rally raid if driven with reasonable care!

Auke