So I bought some property in Arizona... AND...

[SpyderGirl]

Today I purchased some land in Arizona and I want to go out and see it while I am out there near the end of August this year. The property is located 14 miles down a dirt track which is indicated as being passable by all vehicles.... but what do you all think about the Spyder handling a dirt road for that distance (there and back)? I saw something on here some time ago, but couldn't find it.

Any thoughts?


Oh, and if you were wondering, the property is in Lake Mead Rancheros, AZ which is near the foothills near Grand Canyon. It's located about 30 miles from the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk and 15 miles north of historic Route 66. (GPS coordinates: 35.58403,-113.86728)

[fastfraser]

I think if the road is hard packed dirt you will have no problems at all, other then the :spyder2: getting dirty.

I think Chris from Austria got stuck on a gravel road and had to push his :spyder2: out. The traction control doesn't like the rear wheel spin on loose gravel.

[Dochands]

I visited some friends in NC and had no problems on the gravel roads that all the residences are on. Its a bit dusty and slow going but the bike performed.

I would be more concerned about having my ID and papers going to Arizona these days. :yikes:

[SpyderGirl]

I think if the road is hard packed dirt you will have no problems at all, other then the :spyder2: getting dirty.

I think Chris from Austria got stuck on a gravel road and had to push his :spyder2: out. The traction control doesn't like the rear wheel spin on loose gravel.

Well sources don't mention that the road is gravel and says that it's passable by all vehicles. I too was concerned about the TCS. Maybe I can just disable it just for the trip to and from the property.

I am hoping that it's hard-packed so it won't be an issue. I guess if worse comes to worse I'll just have to rent a truck to go up to the property.

Anyone else have experience riding the Spyder in such conditions?

[SpyderGirl]

I visited some friends in NC and had no problems on the gravel roads that all the residences are on. Its a bit dusty and slow going but the bike performed.

I would be more concerned about having my ID and papers going to Arizona these days. :yikes:

Well personally I think everyone should keep a form of ID on them. It's just good practice. :)

I can't wait to go out to the property and check it out. I'll probably even go up there and spend a night to see what it's like. It should be GORGEOUS. :D :2excited:

[Firefly]

:congrats: on the property purchase.

Sounds like a good place for some Spyder 'testing'......:D

I wouldn't worry too much about the Spyder on dirt roads--- ridden on plenty... fun to fish-tail on them....:thumbup:.

As far as the TCS---- we have people riding on snow and ice year round---- if it can handle that it can handle dirt.

Take pics !:thumbup:

[SpyderGirl]

:congrats: on the property purchase.

Sounds like a good place for some Spyder 'testing'......:D

I wouldn't worry too much about the Spyder on dirt roads--- ridden on plenty... fun to fish-tail on them....:thumbup:.

As far as the TCS---- we have people riding on snow and ice year round---- if it can handle that it can handle dirt.

Take pics !:thumbup:

Thanks Firefly.

This is true, what you say about those riding on ice and snow. You're probably right. I'm not really worried about it. Just thought I'd ask to see if others may have experienced problems or had any tips.

And of course I'll take pics. :)

[jedd]

I've ridden on gravel with no problems, works great. Although I wouldn't ride gravel NAKED a rock may hit you and you may get a owe .:roflblack::roflblack:

Jim:thumbup:

[boborgera]

The property is located 14 miles down a dirt track which is indicated as being passable by all vehicles.... but what do you all think about the Spyder handling a dirt road for that distance (there and back)?


Just ride easy the Spyder isn't that delicate, To get into my property in N.Y. I have to go 2 miles on a dirt/rock/rutted mud road, It gives me a good reason to wash my Spyder when i get home :D

[SpyderGirl]

I've ridden on gravel with no problems, works great. Although I wouldn't ride gravel NAKED a rock may hit you and you may get a owe .:roflblack::roflblack:

Jim:thumbup:

Oh, now you're no fun!! :roflblack:


Just ride easy the Spyder isn't that delicate, To get into my property in N.Y. I have to go 2 miles on a dirt/rock/rutted mud road, It gives me a good reason to wash my Spyder when i get home :D

That's good to know. I'll throw my husband on the back to weigh down that rear tire so it can grip down good then give it a bath once we get back to the resort in Sedona. :doorag:

Now google directions are telling me it'll take 53 minutes to go the 14 miles which I know is total crap because I should be able to go faster than 15 MPH. (I hope)

[RoadHammer]

i wouldn't worry about dirt roads whatsoever. I run miles and miles of them often. If anything it will make you a better driver and you will really learn how your bike handles on uneven surfaces.

[SpyderGirl]

i wouldn't worry about dirt roads whatsoever. I run miles and miles of them often. If anything it will make you a better driver and you will really learn how your bike handles on uneven surfaces.

That's good to know. I'm a dirt bike rider so I think I can handle it.

Now what do you think about speed on such roads??

The road that goes up from my property over to the Grand Canyon Skywalk is also a dirt track... about 35 miles one way.

[sabunim5]

I regularly run my Spyder on a 3-4 mile stretch of dirt road to get to a friends house. No problem at all. Just be aware that the Spyder only has about 4 inches of ground clearance and act accordingly. Have fun checking out your new property.

[SpyderGirl]

I regularly run my Spyder on a 3-4 mile stretch of dirt road to get to a friends house. No problem at all. Just be aware that the Spyder only has about 4 inches of ground clearance and act accordingly. Have fun checking out your new property.

Sweet! And thanks! :2thumbs:

I don't think ground clearance will be an issue on the roads up to the property, but maybe traveling on the property itself.

[Campverdefela]

If this is a dirt or gravel road cut for a development of homes you should be fine but I have been on quite a few forest service roads here in Az. and their usually Jeep territory, lots of ruts and fair size rocks.

[SpyderGirl]

If this is a dirt or gravel road cut for a development of homes you should be fine but I have been on quite a few forest service roads here in Az. and their usually Jeep territory, lots of ruts and fair size rocks.

This appears to be a dirt road cut for development of homes. It's not marked as a forest service road. The road is called Antares Road. There appears to be about a mile of pavement heading north of Route 66 then just dirt roads the rest of the way.

I am considering possibly renting a Jeep anyway to make the trek out there, I haven't decided yet. I also considered bringing our dirt bikes with us and parking the Spyder at the Ranchero Motel (http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM8JBW_Ranchero_Motel_Antares_AZ)off of Route 66 and making the trek up there on two-wheels instead. I don't know yet.

[ARtraveler]

There is also a thread on gravel roads the last week or so.

[SpyderGirl]

There is also a thread on gravel roads the last week or so.

Yeah, that was the one I was looking for... but I guess this is a little different because it's dirt roads.

I'm not going to worry about it at this point. Now I just wish it was August already so I can go and see it. :D

[MouthPiece]

Is that ocean front property there in AZ?:D

[SpyderGirl]

Is that ocean front property there in AZ?:D

LOL, I never was much for ocean front property... I love the mountains. The property is very close the the Grand Canyon so I should have a nice mountain view. Also, Lake Mead / Hoover Dam is also close by.

I am 15 miles north off the old Route 66 and Las Vegas is about 3 hours away. It's about 30 - 45 minutes from Kingman.

The climate is mild with highs in the 80's and 90's in the summer and in the 30's typically in the winter with very little snow or precipitation. It's PERFECT (for me). :)

Oh, and it was just under $3,150 an acre.

[Tom in NM]

. . . . I ride dirt roads often. Some are better than others, but I have not been on one that has not been fun yet.

A couple things to be aware of, besides the Traction Control System not liking the back wheel freely spinning on gravel and keeping an eye on ground clearance.


1) Your fuses may get loose and give you some dash messages. Just reseat them and you will be good to go.

2) Sometimes, a small pebble will get in the drive/belt and sprocket - it can be ejected at bullet speeds and if it hits the bike, you will hear a loud "CLANK". I have yet to find where these impacts occur, but they sound like 'something' ripped a metal part off the bike. If you have a passenger, there legs may be in the line of fire - make sure they wear high boots and leg protection.

Those are the major things I have noticed that might be a problem, but 9 times out of 10, nothing happens but smiles and clouds of dust.

Oh, and do be prepared to crouch on the pegs and use your legs as shocks. If the road is rough, sitting will not be an option or possible, though that may depend on how you have your shocks set. So, don't carry a lot of stuff in the frunk or in side bags that will bounce around.

Enjoy your new land, sounds great.

Tom

[Firefly]

2011 - Grand Canyon Spyder Gathering???? :D

[ThreeWheels]

I did about 5 miles of hard packed gravel in Virginia recently.
Damn GPS took me the least distance. Driving down a nice country road, and all of a sudden I see a sign that said "Pavement Ends". 5 miles later the pavement reappeared, but the road was in very good condition, not loose pack at all.

[RoadHammer]

That's good to know. I'm a dirt bike rider so I think I can handle it.

Now what do you think about speed on such roads??

The road that goes up from my property over to the Grand Canyon Skywalk is also a dirt track... about 35 miles one way.
i think the condition of the road will dictate your speed. Around here it takes a while before it becomes packed hard like a highway, than my speeds can reach 100 mph if i choose to do it. Otherwise one loose rock under your rear tire and your tcs will kick in. No doubt your tcs will be very active on a gravel road if your pushing your speed. it's lots of fun..........:D

[Tom in NM]

i think the condition of the road will dictate your speed.

No doubt your tcs will be very active on a gravel road if your pushing your speed. it's lots of fun..........:D

:agree: Way too much fun! :thumbup:

Tom

[SpyderGirl]

. . . . I ride dirt roads often. Some are better than others, but I have not been on one that has not been fun yet.

A couple things to be aware of, besides the Traction Control System not liking the back wheel freely spinning on gravel and keeping an eye on ground clearance.

1) Your fuses may get loose and give you some dash messages. Just reseat them and you will be good to go.

2) Sometimes, a small pebble will get in the drive/belt and sprocket - it can be ejected at bullet speeds and if it hits the bike, you will hear a loud "CLANK". I have yet to find where these impacts occur, but they sound like 'something' ripped a metal part off the bike. If you have a passenger, there legs may be in the line of fire - make sure they wear high boots and leg protection.
Those are the major things I have noticed that might be a problem, but 9 times out of 10, nothing happens but smiles and clouds of dust.

Oh, and do be prepared to crouch on the pegs and use your legs as shocks. If the road is rough, sitting will not be an option or possible, though that may depend on how you have your shocks set. So, don't carry a lot of stuff in the frunk or in side bags that will bounce around.

Enjoy your new land, sounds great.

Tom

Thanks Tom. I can't wait to see it. And thanks for the tips. Maybe I should wear my dirt biking gear. :D


2011 - Grand Canyon Spyder Gathering???? :D

Absofreakinglutely!!!!!!!!!! :2thumbs:

Well... maybe 2012... unless ya'll want to camp.


i think the condition of the road will dictate your speed. Around here it takes a while before it becomes packed hard like a highway, than my speeds can reach 100 mph if i choose to do it. Otherwise one loose rock under your rear tire and your tcs will kick in. No doubt your tcs will be very active on a gravel road if your pushing your speed. it's lots of fun..........:D

Well it should be interesting to see what it's like. I'm hoping it's pretty hard packed so I can get up to at least 35 - 40MPH... otherwise, that'll be a long 14 mile ride. I'll have to let you all know once I actually get up there. Too bad I have to wait almost another 4 months. The suspense is killing me. I bought the property site unseen.

[boborgera]

LOL, I never was much for ocean front property...

I think mouthpiece meant, Future ocean front.:yikes::roflblack:

[rnet]

I hope you like rattlesnakes and immigrants.

[NautiBrit]

That's a nice stretch of Route 66. We rode up to the Grand Canyon Caverns last year and had a great time.

[SpyderGirl]

I think mouthpiece meant, Future ocean front.:yikes::roflblack:

No, that's where I live now...


I hope you like rattlesnakes and immigrants.

More like mountain lions and big horn sheep.... and there are plenty of immigrants here in California.


That's a nice stretch of Route 66. We rode up to the Grand Canyon Caverns last year and had a great time.

Yeah, our property is pretty close to the caverns, I plan on checking them out while we are there and also going up to that part of the Grand Canyon.

[Tom in NM]

. . . . it is close enough for me to make a Spyder CampOut.

If ( when ) I head out to the Grand Canyon area, I will let you know - I could take pictures of your land, pick out my campsite - and let you know what the road is like, too. :D

Tom

[SpyderGirl]

. . . . it is close enough for me to make a Spyder CampOut.

If ( when ) I head out to the Grand Canyon area, I will let you know - I could take pictures of your land, pick out my campsite - and let you know what the road is like, too. :D

Tom

Tom, that'd be great. Let me know when you head out that way. :D

[jrl.spyder]

:congrats:

Based upon GPS coord. looks like you are north east of Kingman, part way to Hackberry, one of my favorite Rte 66 stops. Last time I was there (10 days ago) there was an EDSEL gathering. More than I have ever seen in one place.

Also from Kingman the Mother Road winds its way to Oatman, AZ where you can observe, and/or participate in the daily gunfight on the main street.

Pix below.

[Firefly]

I hope you like rattlesnakes and immigrants.

Considering we're all immigrants...... I think she'll be fine.....:D:doorag:

Sounds like a great area to live!

Love the Grand Canyon area.... just amazing.:thumbup:

[QuadManiac]

That's good to know. I'm a dirt bike rider so I think I can handle it.

Now what do you think about speed on such roads??

The road that goes up from my property over to the Grand Canyon Skywalk is also a dirt track... about 35 miles one way.

If your road is anything like the 35 mile dirt road to the Skywalk, you should have no trouble at all... I took that road in my Explorer a few months ago, and it's a bit rough but, without traffic, I could have averaged about 45 mph on it, even though it's signed bewteen 15 and 25. I'd take my Spyder down it in a heartbeat.

[murphybrown]

2011 - Grand Canyon Spyder Gathering???? :D

Absolutely, I'm ready (seriously)...:2thumbs:

[rnet]

Considering we're all immigrants......This would make for an interesting new thread. I consider my ancestry exployers and settlers. My wife's Native American. So I guess it depends on how loosely one applies the word.

[IWN2RYD]

LOL... Man all these jokesters...

Just thought I would agree here... The thing to keep in mind... When most folks post "Passable by all vehicles" they are not thinking about lowered vehicles or Spyders.

Spyders are pretty low to the ground.

So if there are any ruts in the road.... That is when it will get interesting... :2thumbs: . If it says gravel road, well then I never worry. But BLM or Forest service type maintained roads... Yeah I worry. Most of the time mother nature trys to take back portions of it, and then the "Service" goes out once a year to make it "Passable" again. :doorag:

If it was me I would take a car the first time. It is better to feel you should have taken the RT after your first trip, than take the RT and need help :thumbup:

[SpyderGirl]

Based upon GPS coord. looks like you are north east of Kingman, part way to Hackberry, one of my favorite Rte 66 stops. Last time I was there (10 days ago) there was an EDSEL gathering. More than I have ever seen in one place.

Also from Kingman the Mother Road winds its way to Oatman, AZ where you can observe, and/or participate in the daily gunfight on the main street.

I have only been on route 66 as far as Seligman. From there we stayed on 40 and went to Kingman. I am really stoked about the location of the property.


Love the Grand Canyon area.... just amazing.:thumbup:

Me too. I fell in love the first time I was there. This trip in August will only be my second time in Arizona and I am already a property owner there. :D


If your road is anything like the 35 mile dirt road to the Skywalk, you should have no trouble at all... I took that road in my Explorer a few months ago, and it's a bit rough but, without traffic, I could have averaged about 45 mph on it, even though it's signed bewteen 15 and 25. I'd take my Spyder down it in a heartbeat.

Yeah, I believe that it is very similar to Buck and Doe Rd which runs up to the Skywalk. That's the road that I would take from my property which is 35 miles from Skywalk.


Absolutely, I'm ready (seriously)...:2thumbs:

I'll let you know. :D


If it says gravel road, well then I never worry. But BLM or Forest service type maintained roads... Yeah I worry. Most of the time mother nature trys to take back portions of it, and then the "Service" goes out once a year to make it "Passable" again. :doorag:

If it was me I would take a car the first time. It is better to feel you should have taken the RT after your first trip, than take the RT and need help :thumbup:

I will probably rent a Jeep or a truck to go out to the property the first time... because you're right, mother nature does seem to have a way of taking over infrequently used roads. And yes, I'd hate to get stuck up there with the Spyder. :yikes:

I also am considering camping a night up there just to see what it's like.

[bikeguy]

I also considered bringing our dirt bikes with us and parking the Spyder at the Ranchero Motel (http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM8JBW_Ranchero_Motel_Antares_AZ)off of Route 66 and making the trek up there on two-wheels instead. I don't know yet.

:2thumbs: Be sure and post a picture of the Spyder towing a trailer with 2 dirt bikes on it. That will be a real attention getter. Hope the property is just what you are looking for. The location looks like it should be great country.

Cotton

[SpyderGirl]

The trailer I have is about 180lbs and each bike weighs about 220lbs with fuel. The Spyder has no problem pulling it. I might even get you a picture sooner than August. Possibly this weekend... we plan to take the dirt bikes out. :doorag:

[Clutch]

Well sources don't mention that the road is gravel and says that it's passable by all vehicles. I too was concerned about the TCS. Maybe I can just disable it just for the trip to and from the property.

I am hoping that it's hard-packed so it won't be an issue. I guess if worse comes to worse I'll just have to rent a truck to go up to the property.

Anyone else have experience riding the Spyder in such conditions?


Well...I can tell you all about it because I own 5 acres 1 mile north of Rt 66 and the area you're talkin about is off Hwy 93 and the road heading toward the grand canyon is pretty tough on all small cars. It's pretty rough territory. The main road in is fine but get off on the dirt roads and you're better off using that lil Kawi you have in the garage.

Your neighbor

Stop by we'll talk shop

[SpyderGirl]

Well...I can tell you all about it because I own 5 acres 1 mile north of Rt 66 and the area you're talkin about is off Hwy 93 and the road heading toward the grand canyon is pretty tough on all small cars. It's pretty rough territory. The main road in is fine but get off on the dirt roads and you're better off using that lil Kawi you have in the garage.

Your neighbor

Stop by we'll talk shop


That's good to know, thanks Al. We have pretty much decided that we'll need to take a regular vehicle up there the first time up to scope it out. If we did end up moving up there I'd have to find a way to improve the road up to our property because I'm not giving up my Spyder. :doorag:

Also, I hear that SpeedSports in Livermore is having something on Sunday, maybe you'd be interested in going down there with us.

I'll see you around.

[dragonheart]

Sounds great! We visited the Grand Canyon last year when we rode out from TN to the Spyder event in L.A. Beautiful area. Would love to visit again (hint hint)! Heading to South Dakota instead this summer though.

[SpyderGirl]

Sounds great! We visited the Grand Canyon last year when we rode out from TN to the Spyder event in L.A. Beautiful area. Would love to visit again (hint hint)! Heading to South Dakota instead this summer though.

I'll let ya'll know and we'll have a big Spyder meet and camp-out with bonfires and stuff. Good times! :2thumbs: