Hi René: I agree with Chinzo, do not take the offroad routes in Mongolia unless you REALLY know what you are doing and are prepared for dangerous cold. Although there is usually not much snow, it can build up in drifts big enough to get stuck in. Also the snow drifts into the frozen mud ruts so that it all looks flat and then your front tire goes into the rut and down you go.

There is much less local traffic on the tracks in the winter, so if you do get stuck, crash, or have mechanical trouble you could be a day or more exposed to the severe cold before anyone comes along to help you.

Your safest route in the winter is the paved road from Altanbulag to UB, but even with that be aware that there is very little done to clear ice from that road so take it very easy and look out for many icy sections.

If you are determined to do the west to east route in the winter I strongly suggest you tag along with one or more Mongolian vehicles, ideally large trucks, between towns. They will go slow but at least you will have help if you get stuck or break down. Use metal-studded tires if possible.

I would never tell anyone something is impossible, especially if you are on a personal quest to challenge yourself. But make sure you are prepared for the conditions and know what you are doing. Every winter there are Mongolians who die from the cold and exposure to the elements, and they have been living with it all of their lives.

Regards, Scott