I’m an avid motorcyclist and have travelled by bike in many countries all over the world.

It was with some trepidation that I signed up with Enduro Tours for their off road adventure in Jan 2005. I was worried that I would not have the fitness or the off road skills to keep up with everyone else on the trip. My fears were completely unfounded. This trip was all about having fun, it’s not competitive and we were encouraged to go at our own pace.

I was met at the airport by Walter and Joang, and then taken to meet the other guys on the trip, 3 other Brits and 4 Austrians. The beer flowed freely and we all set off the next morning, after being allocated bikes, with varying degrees of hangover. The first day was an easy, relaxed and an informal introduction to the bikes and the kind of terrain to expect, it also allowed the group to gel together, and set the tone for what was to come.

The riding was very much a “go at your own pace” affair, the quicker guys took off and the slower ones caught up during the frequent cigarette, lunch, and scenery admiring/photo stops. The scenery and roads (on and off road) in the north of Thailand make for an amazing motorcycling adventure. We were looked after in the evenings with fantastic food and comfortable accommodation. The guides, who made sure we never got lost, were really friendly and quick to repair any problems that occurred with the bikes. Walter (the tour leader, and all round great guy) does a great job making sure everyone has a good time, and following on behind in his 4×4 with all the luggage making sure no-one gets left behind.

I can highly recommend this trip for anyone who enjoys their motorcycling, and having fun with other likeminded people, even if, like me, you are going by yourself. Off road experience is not essential but it does help. Another thing you’ll be amazed at is how far your money goes; – Cooked lunch and can of coke £1. Pack of Marlborough, 80p. Bottle of Heineken £1.

I plan to go back and do this again as soon as I can. I have also fallen in love with Northern Thailand and it’s my dream to go and live there…soon.

Update… Fast forward nearly 20 years… I did just that! I’ve been out here full time since 2006 and never looked back. I’ve been mates with Walter ever since and helped set this website up I join larger trips booked through it and do all the photography.