We all choose our riding gear for comfort, style, and weather protection — trusting that if it’s sold as motorcycle gear, it must also keep us safe in a crash. But how much of that trust is based on proof, and how much is just assumption? This week we speak with the head of one of the world’s only independent labs that secretly buys gear off the shelf, crash-tests it, and publishes the results. What they’ve uncovered may completely change the way you think about the gear you’ve been relying on.

🔗 Show Notes & Links:
Find photos, links, and resources related to this episode on our website at Adventure Rider Radio.

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We release new episodes of ARR every week on Thursday and of RAW on the 21st of every month—full of inspiring stories, expert advice, and insight from the world of adventure motorcycling. Hit subscribe so you never miss out!

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When everything is perfectly organized—routes mapped, fuel stops planned, meals and beds guaranteed—it feels effortless. But the truth is, no matter how tidy the plan, the real world always gets a vote. On short rides, those small interruptions are easy to patch over. Stretch the miles across countries and weeks on the road, though, and the little things start to compound. That’s when the first casualty is usually the plan—and what comes next is called the adventure.

In this 2017 story, a dozen experienced riders set out to cross South America from Cartagena to Ushuaia, equipped with skills, support vehicles, and a clear plan. But tropical rain, border red tape, shock absorbers that cried uncle, and Patagonian winds forced them to adapt. The journey didn’t unfold the way they mapped it—but that’s the point. What carries a long trip isn’t a perfect plan; it’s the flexibility to rewrite it.

🔗 Show Notes & Links:
Find photos, links, and resources related to this episode on our website at Adventure Rider Radio.

🎧 Subscribe & Never Miss an Episode:
We release new episodes of ARR every week on Thursday and of RAW on the 21st of every month—full of inspiring stories, expert advice, and insight from the world of adventure motorcycling. Hit subscribe so you never miss out!

💡 Got an Idea?
Have a guest suggestion or topic you’d love us to cover? We’d love to hear from you! Drop us an email through our website.

⭐️ Leave a Review:
Enjoying the show? A 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app goes a long way in helping others discover the show.

📱 Follow Us:
Join our growing community on Facebook and Instagram. Let’s stay connected!

🙌 Support the Show:
Love what we do? Help keep the adventure alive by supporting us. Your contribution allows us to keep bringing you great content week after week.

📤 Share the Show:
Know someone who would enjoy this episode? Share it with them! Word of mouth helps us grow and reach more riders around the world.

📬 Join Our Newsletter:
Be the first to hear about new episodes, bonus content, and more! Sign up for our newsletter at Adventure Rider Radio.

🙏 Thanks for Listening!
We truly appreciate you being part of our adventure community. Until next time—ride safe and keep exploring!

Chris Birch returns to Adventure Rider Radio with insights from his brand-new Everything Adventure video training series. This is a deep dive into how adventure riding and training have evolved in the last five years. Chris explains why fundamentals like bike setup and body position matter more than flashy skills, how modern ADV bike design is changing the way we ride, and why so much of what riders learn in a course is quickly forgotten. From fitness as the hidden limiter, to the “fun tokens” mindset, to the balance between digital and in-person training, Chris shares practical lessons and fresh perspectives every rider can take to the trail.

About Chris Birch:

Chris Birch is one of the most sought-after off-road coaches in the world. With over 35 years of riding experience, he has competed at the highest levels and coached thousands of riders across the globe. Known for his relatable teaching style, Chris focuses on explaining why techniques work, not just telling riders what to do. Through his Say No To Slow coaching program, he helps adventure and enduro riders build skills, confidence, and control on the bike.

🔗 Show Notes & Links:
Find photos, links, and resources related to this episode on our website at Adventure Rider Radio.

🎧 Subscribe & Never Miss an Episode:
We release new episodes of ARR every week on Thursday and of RAW on the 21st of every month—full of inspiring stories, expert advice, and insight from the world of adventure motorcycling. Hit subscribe so you never miss out!

💡 Got an Idea?
Have a guest suggestion or topic you’d love us to cover? We’d love to hear from you! Drop us an email through our website.

⭐️ Leave a Review:
Enjoying the show? A 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app goes a long way in helping others discover the show.

📱 Follow Us:
Join our growing community on Facebook and Instagram. Let’s stay connected!

🙌 Support the Show:
Love what we do? Help keep the adventure alive by supporting us. Your contribution allows us to keep bringing you great content week after week.

📤 Share the Show:
Know someone who would enjoy this episode? Share it with them! Word of mouth helps us grow and reach more riders around the world.

📬 Join Our Newsletter:
Be the first to hear about new episodes, bonus content, and more! Sign up for our newsletter at Adventure Rider Radio.

🙏 Thanks for Listening!
We truly appreciate you being part of our adventure community. Until next time—ride safe and keep exploring!