Minibike Mayhem

DPV Podcast Ep. 7: Mini-Biking Your Way to Overland Adventure (on a Budget!)

Welcome back to the DPV Podcast! Can you believe we’re already on episode 7? Time flies when you’re talking shop, right? And this time, we’re diving into something a little different: budget-friendly overlanding on mini bikes!

Yep, you heard that right. We’re talking about our 120-mile adventure through the beautiful Pacific Northwest on Coleman mini bikes. Forget the big rigs for a moment – we’re proving you don’t need a massive budget to experience the thrill of exploring the great outdoors.

Why Mini Bikes?

We wanted to showcase a unique and accessible way to enjoy the woods. Especially for those of you in the PNW, there’s incredible scenery right in your backyard. Coleman mini bikes offer a low-cost entry point into overlanding. While maybe not “perfect,” they’re a fantastic way to cover ground and see some amazing country.

Our Mini Bike Adventure: Lessons Learned

Last year, we took on the challenge of riding 120 miles through the woods on these little machines. It was an epic journey, but we learned a lot along the way. Here are some key takeaways:

• Fuel Capacity is Key: These bikes aren’t known for their massive tanks. Plan your fuel stops and consider carrying extra gas. We averaged around 40 miles per gallon, which is pretty impressive for wide-open throttle riding.
• 40 Miles a Day is the Sweet Spot: After our marathon ride, we realized that around 40 miles a day is the ideal distance for comfort. Anything more, and you’ll start feeling the vibrations and fatigue.
• Gear Setup Matters: Take the time to properly secure your gear. We used milk crates for storage, but it took some adjusting to get the ergonomics right. Your back will thank you!
• Communication is Crucial: Radios are a must, especially when riding in remote areas. We used Rugged Radios, but we recommend getting a push-to-talk button for easier communication while riding.
• Prepare for Anything: Pack a puncture repair kit, basic tools, and consider bringing a first-aid kit. And, depending on the area you are in, maybe some bear protection.
• Navigation is Essential: The OnX Offroad app was invaluable for navigating trails. A handlebar mount for your phone is highly recommended.
• Comfort is King: Consider adding some form of cruise control, and make sure to wear good gloves.

Get Out There and Explore!

Whether you’re on a mini bike, a Jeep, or anything in between, we encourage you to get out there and explore. The Pacific Northwest has so much to offer, and you don’t need a huge budget to experience it.

Don’t forget to check out the video of our mini bike adventure! We’ll put a link in the show notes.

Wheel it, Wreck it, Wrench it, Repeat!