Himalayan Prep-Up before LEH Departure
The bike was taken to the service station for prepping up before the Leh trip this week
All bolts were checked and tightened where necessary
No leakages of any kind found
Some more spares were procured. A newer clutch cable for the Himalayan had reached them (160/-) which was longer by just a few mm from the original that came with the bike. It was kept as a spare as my Classic 350 cable was running just fine. 1L engine oil (350/-) and brake and clutch levers (410/-) were procured. Also a chain lube used and recommended by RE was also procured (300/-).
Chain Lube's applications. It is a quality product from a subsidiary of ITW, USA
The Long Riding Boots by RE (6500/-) were also checked out. Quite good and sewn at the lips for total waterproofing
Meanwhile the ROK straps had also reached from BigBadBikes.com (1920/- landed)
The quality was excellent
3 rolls of 2" 3M Masking tape from amazon.in had also reached and will be used to cover the tank in vulnerable spots to prevent scratches IF I attach the tank bag at that location
A Natural Cotton Soft Muffler was procured which I feel is most essential for such trips as it can do multiple functions and even function as a towel...lolz
A small Foldable Duffle Bag was also procured for extra luggage, if needed.
And a rain cover for the same was also procured
and a Yoga Mat in grey shade
My existing RAIN Jacket from Naturals and RAIN Pants from Wildcraft
RAIN Jacket in use
A short Independence day run in heavy rains was made to test many capabilities. It waded through 1~2 feet water on the roads at many points easily. The Rynox as a tail bag and the ROK straps were also tested.
But my existing Armstrong Armored boots failed miserably and got totally wet till the innards. So a Waterproof Hiking Shoes of Quechua through Decathlon.in were procured, model is Forclaz 500 (now called 100), MRP was 4999/- and I got it for 3999/-, after proper research and feedback from many ex-Leh Riders. These boots serve the dual purpose to tackle the Leh terrain and double up as sturdy waterproof Riding Boots too. The top mesh is quite thick to easily take the gear change lever's abuse.
Seams are sewn in like the RE boots for proper water resistance in showers.
Novadry material. Will work till the shoes are submerged above knee length.
The Rain Pants Mode, for riding in the rains
The Water Crossing Mode, with RE Boot Covers for 1~2 feet water submergence. Nothing is 100% foolproof but hopefully this can get the job done.
Also got these CE Rated Riding Sunglasses from Decathlon. 100% UV protection, impact and pebble resistant, and category 3 Glare protection
Also got hold of this old mini folding tripod for taking night shots
And a unbreakable glass
Some checklists, made by a friend who also owns a Himalayan, which I may follow partially depending upon my own personal requirements
Bike Preparation
Misc Items and clothes
Medical Kit
Spare fuses for the Himalayan (10A, 15A and 30A)
Spare Headlight Bulbs were pinched from my i10, same specs of 55/60W H4.
More to follow.
Cheers for now...