Suggestion for a moto-TSD format development…. What you think?

Photo credit to M O’G…

While I’m in the process of putting the September Labour Day event together, I’m also thinking about next year’s VI Day Trial…

VI Day Trial 2027.

I’ve already taken onboard the suggestion of running it as a 3+3 day event for those who are not blessed with unlimited days holiday from work (there are benefits to being self-employed/semi-retired).

Days 1-3 will be the usual VIME format of day-routes by Gaia or Roadbook with GPS timing.

Days 4-6 will be the moto Malle bikepacking safari as previously discussed.

What do you, dear readers, think about the following idea…..?

The event is a navigation trial, over the (ungated) gravel roads of the north of Vancouver Island.

Instead of running to the established moto-TSD format, what thinkest thees of the format :

There would be a start point and and end point for each day, where the overnight camp would be. Between the start and end points would be a sequence of timing GPS “gates” through which riders would need to pass in order to score.

The GPS gates would be set such that the target time between each set of gates is known by the competitor riders…

BUT

There would be no set route between them.

The location of the sequence of gates would be shared with riders say 7days before the event and they would determine their own route between them, at a speed that would get them to arrive at each gate on schedule.

The nominal average speed would be something sensible and legal, make a cock-up in your navigation or timings and what you do is up to you!

This format would not be without its challenges, it would be difficult to keep track of riders who may be taking very different routes. It would also add (potentially) an extra layer of difficulty to ride - but navigation through the backcountry is, after all, what we are about?

Locations of petrol stations, places to eat, fuel ranges required, phone numbers of importance and whatever will be shared ahead of time along with known road closures and difficult passages.

I have already arranged camping for the two “away nights” at Stamp River campground and a venue in Port Alice that will be able to provide a hot evening meal.

Please tell me what you think about this format development which is intended to be accessible to both dualsport and adventure bike riders.

I’m looking forwards to your comments