What are the NW Expeditions?
In short they are 2-day training events run by PSS Off Road that bridge the gap between our ADV Camp rider training and the knowledge needed for safe and enjoyable adventure riding out on your own.
These are small group training events prodiving you with excellent one-on-one instruction as needed, and explaining the "why's" and "how's" of adventure riding.
Are rider skills training included?
Yes. PSS Off Road is a school focused on riding skills and these Expeditions are the "next step" from our ADV Camps. Riders receive basic skills training as needed along the route to negotiate the terrain we come upon. If you have attended one of our 2012 ADV Camps - it is very similar to the excursion ride that takes place on the final day of camp.
How long are Expeditions?
The Expeditions are two days long, with overnight camping. They are set on a Thursday-Friday schedule so that after the Expedition riders can opt to continue on a route and use their newly improved knowledge and skills on the weekend.
Where do Expeditions start and end?
The Expeditions are scheduled in different regions of the Pacific Northwest and will start and end at a location on or near major highways.
Who should join an Expedition?
If you are an adventure or dualsport rider with some off pavement experience then Expeditions are right at your level. The big picture of the Expeditions is for our expert ADV Instructors to provide you with knowledge and skill to improve riding and travel abilities.
Each Expedition is unique in the subjects and content provided, and they visit different regions in the Pacific Northwest as well.
2013 NW Expeditions
The list of events for 2013 is still being worked on and not all dates are open for registration.
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Routing & Navigation for ADV Riders | ||
| Region: Portions of WA BDR Legs 2 & 3 | |||
Getting lost is a hazard as real and as serious as crashing. Having a GPS won't guarantee you'll know where you are and the best way to get out. We'll cover these topics:
This expedition includes on-trail lessons and practical application of the skills learned. We'll discuss scouting safe campsites based on learned skills. The places we ride will vary based on road and weather conditions and will generally stay near the Legs 2 and 3 of the WA BDR. |
Things To Know
Show/Hide AllAre meals included?
No. Meals are not included with Expeditions, however meal stops are planned. Some Expeditions discuss and demonstrate camp-cooking skills.
How many people can join an Expedition?
The limit to Expedition members depends on the staffing and details of the Expedition itself. Sometimes the limit may be as low as 6 or as high as 12. The spaces shown next to each Expedition are the maximum that we can accept based on the content and routes being used. If our available staffing changes we will adjust the available spaces without notice.
How much does an Expedition cost?
Each Expedition varies in price slightly depending on the route, content included, and the level of support provided. The price of each Expedition is shown in the list above.
Do I need a lot of experience to go on an Expedition?
Riders do not need to be overly experienced to join expeditions. We do recommend that you have sufficient experience such that you are confident riding your motorcycle on the street and maintained gravel roads.
The Expeditions do include basic rider skill training as needed along the way. If you have attended a 2012/2013 ADV Camp - the training is very similar to our excursion ride on the final day of camp.
If you are unsure of your riding skill, we highly recommend that you attend our ADV Camp or Level 2 training course.
What are the minimum requirements to go on an Expedition?
Each expedition has its own unique requirements and suggestions. After enrolling in an expedition we will send you a list of items to consider bringing.
You must have:
- A street legal dualsport or adventure motorcycle.
- Current motorcycle endorsement.
- Proof of motorcycle insurance for some events.
- Current WA Discovery Pass and/or NW Forest Pass.
- Minimum riding gear, see below.
- Suitable camping gear for overnight Expeditions.
What is a street legal dualsport or adventure motorcycle?
Your motorcycle must have a license plate, and all the equipment required for street use. We recommend dualsport (knobby) or adventure (less knobby) tires.
Additional recommended equipment: handguards with backbone, crash bars, and a skid plate. These items can be factory or aftermarket.
Why is insurance sometimes required?
Some of the Expeditions travel outside of WA and our neighboring states and Canadian Provinces have motorcycle insurance requirements.
Why is a WA Discover Pass or NW Forest Pass sometimes required?
Our Expeditions make great use of US Forest Service roads, camp grounds, trail systems, and day use areas. Some of these sites require a day pass, or annual pass - 95% of the pass fee goes toward maintaining the facilities that we use.
Note: The US Forest Pass is not the same as the WA Discover Pass. The WA Discover Pass covers use of state managed lands and recreation sites (i.e. DNR, WA DFW, State Parks, etc).
What is the minimum riding gear?
All participants must wear the following items during riding portions of Expeditions:
- US DOT compliant helmet (full face or modular recommended)
- Integrated visor, goggles, or eye glasses
- Full finger riding gloves
- Appropriate riding jacket
- Appropriate riding pants
- Riding specific boots that rise above and support the ankle from twisting/rolling motions
Riding a motorcycle is serious business, especially for off-pavement riding, and appropriate riding gear helps to manage body temperature, water loss, and fatigue. Quality riding gear will greatly increase comfort and visibility, enabling you to better enjoy the Expedition.
Participants that do not show up with the minimum riding gear will not be allowed on the Expedition and will not be entitled to any refunds. If you do not have the items listed above, or are unsure, contact us for assistance.
What is the Cancellation/Refund policy?
If for any reason you are unable to attend the event date for which you have paid you MUST contact us ASAP!
You may cancel or change course dates at any time if you have not yet paid your event fee. Though, if you have not yet paid the event fee your reserved spot may be given away to someone else. If you have already paid the event fee then you are subject to the following:
If you notify us...
- 21 days or more prior to your scheduled event:
- You can reschedule without penalty.
- You can cancel and receive a refund, minus a $25 processing fee.
- Also eligible for Transfer, see below.
- 20 days or less prior to your scheduled event:
- You can reschedule for an additional $50 fee.
- You can cancel and receive a refund, minus a $50 processing fee.
- Also eligible for Transfer, see below.
- 10 days or less prior to your scheduled event:
- There is no option to reschedule or receive a refund.
- Not eligible for Transfer.
- However, you can find someone else to take your spot and they can pay you for it.
If you wish to cancel or change classes you may do so by calling our office during regular business hours. Visit the Contact Us page.
Can I transfer to another PSSOR Expedition or event?
If you are eligible for a transfer (see cancellation/refund policy) you can place the amount paid as a "Credit On File" with us for future use.
Transfers do not incur a processing fee and will be available for a period of 2 years from the transfer date. Refunds after transferring will incur the processing fee.