To beat city heat, bikers hit cool Himalayan terrain

Gurvinder Singh

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, July 14

City youngsters cannot resist the beckoning of the Himalayas in the prevailing weather conditions. They take out their motorcycles and go exploring the tortuous hilly paths. They not only get respite from the scorching heat of the plains for some time but also ultimate adventure.

Most of them say the reason for taking up the risky journey on treacherous terrain of the Himalayas is the sense of adventure. “Biking on high-altitude terrain is a real adventure and big achievement, to be out there all on your own. With the beauty of nature in the Himalayas comes the risk of riding through the barren hills of Ladakh,” says Supreet Singh, a resident of the city.

“We have explored different mountain terrain in the past few summers. We went to Leh and Ladakh for the second time this year,” he said.

For those who want to take up such risky rides, preparation is the key, they say. “We chalk out the details about our trips. Our preparations begin with making sure that our bikes are serviced well and are in proper shape. We carry camping gear, ready-to-cook food, stove, extra fuel, clutch wires, bike repair kits etc,” he says. “Many of us have installed wide handles on their bikes for a comfortable ride as we have to ride for hours together,” he added.

Asked why they don’t go to such risky areas by a car or public transport, Gurneet, one of the youngsters, says: “The joy is not just about reaching the destination but we love the experience of biking on hilly terrain throughout the journey,” he said. “All your biking skills are put to test. Those who are passionate about biking have the best of both worlds. They love the ride, adventure and the destination,” he added.

Speaking about the risks involved, one of them says: “There obviously are several risks involved. We have to negotiate tough passes, drive through waterlogged roads, face harsh weather conditions with low oxygen at high altitude,” said another youngster.

“But the best part of the journey is learning we come back with. It helps you appreciate your friends and team members all the more. You come back wiser and equipped with better organisational and problem-solving skills, as you are completely on your own during the journey,” says Supreet.

“We fixed punctures and repaired bikes on our own during the journey. You have to survive in tough conditions for a long time. That is a great experience,” said Charanbir, another youngster who has explored Leh Ladakh all alone. “My friend, who went along with me, had his arm fractured after his bike skidded. But I continued with my journey. There are people who climb Everest for this adventure. Risks are always there as part of a journey,” he says.

You get best of both worlds

"All your biking skills are put to test. Those who are passionate about biking have the best of both worlds. They love the ride on treacherous terrain, the adventure and the destination." Gurneet

We come back wiser

"But the best part of the journey is learning we come back with. It helps you appreciate your friends and team members all the more. You come back wiser and equipped with better organisational and problem-solving skills, as you are completely on your own during the journey." Supreet

Lone rider

"My friend, who went along with me, had his arm fractured after his bike skidded. But I continued with my journey. There are people who climb Everest for this adventure. Risks are always there as part of a journey" Charanbir