2014 Adventure Rally Series

The Bonnier Motorcycle Group brands, Motorcyclist, Cycle World and Dirt Rider, introduced the Adventure Rally – Sierra Edition last October to rave reviews from participants, industry veterans, and the crotchetiest of moto-journalists. So much fun was had in the Sierras that an additional event based in Gunnison, Colorado was conceived.

The 2014 Adventure Rally Series will feature a Rockies Edition, rolling out July 24-27 in Gunnison, Colorado and the return of the Sierra Edition, taking place September 25-28 in Lakeshore, California.  Space is limited for both events so early sign-up is encouraged. Book mark this page to sign up at a later date or click on one of the following links to register now:

The concept for both editions is perhaps best explained as light-hearted competitive geocaching for motorcycles.  The ride starts at a "Base" location, from which teams of two or more participants are given clue books and maps marked with over 60 bonus locations to find.  The locations are rated green, blue, and black based on riding difficulty (ranging from pure pavement to challenging off-road) and offer points based roughly on the time needed to reach a particular Bonus Point.  Record the location via Instagram (showing all teammates, or all teammates' motorcycles) to collect your points.

Additional points can be gained riding “Special Tests” set up at Base.  More importantly, the "Special Tests" give riders a chance to practice skills and learn from our rider coaches and fellow participants throughout the event.

“Is it a competitive event? Yes!” said Event Director Corey Eastman “But the competition exists as a way to show participants all the diversity of riding these areas have to offer.  One team will score the most points, but every rider leaves as a winner!”

The format takes place over three days.  Participants are asked to arrive on Thursday around noon for event orientation and the first round of "Special Tests". A welcome cocktail party and dinner, along with a safety briefing and competition overview follow these activities. Friday morning dawns with the distribution of navigation materials.  Teams are given one hour to study and strategize, where after they are free to explore the mountain terrain and chase Bonus locations by their most strategic means possible. Saturday sees strategies mature or flounder as teams chase Bonus points, explore the area, and get one last shot at the "Special Tests”.  Post dinner is a time to party and celebrate the best and worst of two great days of riding.

Participation is all-inclusive.  Sign up includes a three-night stay (double occupancy), six meals, navigation materials, an event t-shirt, sticker, commemorative number plate decal, and sponsor materials.  Packages are available for team riders ($550 per person) or for an individual ($650 – private room), which will pair you with another rider or team for the navigational elements of the event.

Follow #ADVRALLY on Instagram to catch up on last year's ride and follow participants throughout the 2014 series. And you can revisit our Lost Weekend feature documenting Team Motorcyclist's trek to the Rally.