Trust the Process

A superb day spent learning adventure motorcycle riding techniques from Dakar privateer, Ashish Raorane

- Azaman Chothia

OFF PISTE RACING (OPR) IS A PLATFORM THAT WAS introduced last year wherein riders get to learn various off-road riding techniques. With years of experience in the world of motorcycles, Ashish Raorane leads all the sessions and shares some crucial tips to become a better off-road rider. We recently attended the Rallyscape session which covers two levels aimed at adventure and enduro riding methods. The sessions take place at a plot of land close to Bhugaon, on the outskirts of Pune, which is a great location to hone your skills as it has a well laid-out dirt-track.

The agenda for the Level 2 training on Sunday was to refresh all the techniques learned on the first day, followed by some advanced methods that would help a rider get out of a tricky situation while exploring unknown trails. Until now, most of my off-road riding has been self-taught with a little input from some experienced riders I have had the honour of meeting over the years. However, the learning never stops and what better way to end a weekend than getting trained by a rider who has taken part in the gruelling Dakar Rally?

New riders would not venture off road as there is some level of risk involved, but the truth is that with the proper knowledge and techniques, anything in the way can be conquered with ease and such a session is exactly what a rider needs to overcome their fears. The day began with me receiving the keys to a Hero Xpulse 200 sporting a rally kit and an after-market exhaust unit as well. Riders are encouraged to get their own motorcycles but Off Piste Racing also has the option of renting a dirt-ready Xpulse 200.