Kit list
You do not need to bring excess clothing unless you are planning to stay in India after the trip. Do not bring clothing, baggage or any equipment that you are worried about damaging as facilities during the event are at times basic. All luggage will be carried on a truck.

A general note about clothing for the Himalayas:
It is important that you are as comfortable as possible in your riding kit to ensure that you can direct as much of your attention as possible to the road or track ahead. Temperatures can change significantly during a day’s ride, so a good tip is to wear several lighter layers to give you the ability to adjust your kit to suit the conditions.

HYDRATION PACK (ESSENTIAL – 3 LITRE CAPACITY STRONGLY RECOMMENDED)

This is the best way to carry drinking water; the pack is carried in a purpose-made rucksack and the water fed through a drinking tube. This enables the rider to keep hydrated without the need to remove the helmet. The rucksack can also be used to carry small items of kit.

HELMET (ESSENTIAL)

Any helmet that has approval for road use in the UK is acceptable and must be worn at all times when on the bike. The ideal type is the motocross or enduro helmet as it has the best compromise of features for riding in the Himalayas. The peak acts as a sunshade, the chin guard gives good protection and ventilation, and the overall design allows the comfortable wearing of goggles – strongly recommended for keeping out dust! Tinted goggles are advisable over sunglasses for the same reason. However, your UK road lid is suitable for the event but please bear in mind that the difficult terrain and conditions in the Himalayas may mean that some damage to the helmet may be sustained.

UPPER BODY ARMOUR (ESSENTIAL)

There are a few different styles of body armour available; the hard plastic ‘rooster-tail deflector’ or tabard style, the ‘all-in-one’ mesh jacket (which includes hard armour in all the vulnerable areas and a kidney belt) or separate pieces of hard armour fitted into a jacket. It is down to personal choice as to which is most comfortable. It is important that elbows, back, shoulders and chest are as well protected as possible.

JACKET (ESSENTIAL)

A warm textile motorcycle jacket is highly recommended as they usually feature a removable lining. This is ideal as it allows adjustment of kit according to temperature changes during the day.

PROTECTIVE TROUSERS (ESSENTIAL)

Hard wearing and breathable are the important features, beyond that it is down to personal choice. Textile, as opposed to leather, is preferred as leather is too hot and restrictive for the conditions. Motocross or enduro pants are ideal, although alternatives such as reinforced denim jeans or combats could be considered. It is essential that adequate knee protection is worn, the hard type being recommended.

MOTORCYCLE BOOTS (ESSENTIAL)

Sturdy, over the ankle, motorcycle boots are essential. Off-road boots are highly recommended as they offer the best lower leg protection due to a sturdier construction than that of road or race boots.

GLOVES (ESSENTIAL)

Two pairs of gloves are strongly recommended – one lightweight/summer pair and one waterproof/winter pair. Temperatures and conditions can vary greatly during a day’s ride, so ensure that you have both with you every day.

THERMAL BASE-LAYER (ESSENTIAL)

Basically, thermal underwear! It is worth purchasing a base layer specifically designed for outdoor pursuits as it will have properties built in to keep moisture away from the body and keep the wearer dry and warm. Separate top and bottoms rather than an all-in-one suit are recommended.

WATERPROOFS (ESSENTIAL)

The changeable conditions in the Himalayas mean that there is the very real possibility of rain or even snow during the rally. A lightweight waterproof suit serves a dual purpose – it keeps the rain out but can also act as an extra insulator against wind and cold. Suits are available as either a one or a two-piece, both of which have their advantages. For example, the one-piece is more watertight, whereas the two-piece can be worn as separate items and is easier to put on and remove.

BASIC FIRST AID KIT (ESSENTIAL)

To include a sufficient supply of any personal medication. Items that may be very useful include rehydration salt sachets, paracetamol, ibuprofen, antiseptic cream and sticking plasters.
ANTISEPTIC ALCOHOL-BASED HANDWASH (ESSENTIAL)

SUN BLOCK (ESSENTIAL)

A high factor is strongly recommended.

SLEEPING BAG

Although bedding will be provided every night, you may prefer your own sleeping bag for nights in the more remote locations.
A lightweight 2-3 season bag is recommended.
SUNGLASSES

MOSQUITO REPELLENT

Only required in transit through Delhi.

TORCH

A head torch is very useful.
WASH BAG
SCARF / BANDANA (TO PROTECT NECK)
FLEECE / PULLOVER
TOWEL
TRAINERS OR SANDALS
T-SHIRTS
CASUAL TROUSERS
SWIMWEAR

EAR PLUGS

To protect against snoring room mates!