What I learnt

Perhaps the biggest thing I learnt was that it really is very important to wear those crazy big boots when riding off-road. I spent all morning cursing my Alpinestars Tech 8s for their massive, unyielding nature – then spent all afternoon thanking the good lord for their massive, unyielding nature after catching my foot between the Ténéré 660 and the edge of a tractor rut at about 20mph, giving my ankle a serious wrench. It was tender for a few days afterwards – but I’d have definitely been visiting A&E if I’d been wearing a lesser boot, I reckon. So – wear the big boots and keep your toes tucked in when riding in ruts!

I also picked up some useful tips on river crossings. The trick is not – as I thought – to go as fast as you can and hope you have enough momentum to blast through. A slower, steadier approach is best, with feet down in case the river bed is bumpier than expected. A foot off the pegs can touch down quicker, maybe keeping you upright.