ADV Essentials

ADV Essentials is a 4.5 hour add on class designed to give you the critical knowledge and skills needed to stay safe and self sufficient in the back country. While most training programs focus solely on riding technique, this course goes far beyond that. Drawing from more than 20 years of real world adventure experience across deserts, mountains, remote wilderness, and international terrain, ADV Essentials teaches the practical survival and problem solving skills every adventure rider should have before heading into the unknown.

Throughout the session, we cover “the rest of what you need to know” — the vital skills that aren’t about clutch control or balance, but about making smart decisions and staying safe when things don’t go as planned. You’ll learn the essentials of satellite communication, including how to select and use devices like InReach or Zoleo, how to send accurate emergency pings, and how to communicate your exact location to rescue services. We break down GPS navigation fundamentals so you understand how to follow tracks, manage waypoints, interpret terrain, and avoid common mistakes that lead riders off course.

You’ll also learn what tools and supplies you should always carry, how to pack them efficiently, and how to use them to perform field repairs on common issues like flats, broken levers, loose fasteners, flooded engines, and minor electrical problems. We also dive into risk management, group communication, and how to assess whether a situation requires self recovery or outside help.

One of the most important parts of the course is preparing for the unexpected overnight scenario. If your bike becomes disabled or conditions force you to stop, you’ll learn how to build a proper back country kit, stay warm, stay hydrated, stay visible, and stay calm while waiting for assistance.

ADV Essentials begins Friday morning and includes Thursday night lodging and meals, giving you time to settle in, prepare, and start your weekend with the confidence that you have the knowledge, tools, and mindset to handle the challenges of true adventure riding.