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XF650
25th October 2008, 11:18
Saw a bit of Charlie & Ewans African trip on Sky recently. All a bit contrived really, especially after seeing our own Kiwi hero's do it unassisted on the African Odyssey.
Anyway there was one scene where they camped in the bush for the night (the ant incident). One of the tents is actually pitched on the track, which I had read somewhere is a big no no in Africa - wandering elephants & stuff.
Next morning they are filmed riding off, leaving their camp fire burning, in the dry African bush!!!!! Now I know that there's a third rider (the invisible camerman) & he (hopefully) put the fire out. But I still think it's irresponsible to film it that way.
It's ironic that the next night they are filmed admiring a sun set & there in the distance is a bush fire burning...........

bart
25th October 2008, 13:09
Tossers eh. It'd be nice to be a squillionaire, draw a few lines on a map, pay a team of people to organise the trip, and just turn up and ride.

Perhaps I'm a bit hard on them, but there are a lot of people around who've done a lot more, with a lot less, (and didn't bitch and moan the whole way).

EJK
25th October 2008, 13:12
Is that a jealousy?

Well overall the dvd (TV series) was an entertainment purpose (hired good cameras, professional editors, song writers etc etc)...

Tank
25th October 2008, 13:21
Im sure that even the folk who do more on less still have grumpy ass days.

All in all - take the series for what it is - they have made a business out of something they love doing - its entertainment.

I really enjoyed it.

Tank
25th October 2008, 13:22
Is that a jealousy?

Hell - yeah - Id love to do it.

And to make $$$ doing it - even better.

Still think my wife's hotter than Charlies tho'

Cross Rider
25th October 2008, 14:26
Is that a jealousy?

Well overall the dvd (TV series) was an entertainment purpose (hired good cameras, professional editors, song writers etc etc)...

You gotta wonder how KTM feel about BMW doing so well out of it. It has motivated heaps of people to start riding again.

Balrog
25th October 2008, 15:02
I think its a great show.

I didn't even consider adventure riding until I saw the Long way Round.

Now my sports bike is for sale, and I can't think of anything else more engaging than getting out on my adventure bike.

:niceone: Ewan & Charlie

BMWST?
25th October 2008, 15:08
You gotta wonder how KTM feel about BMW doing so well out of it. It has motivated heaps of people to start riding again.

KTM turned them down on sponsoring the long way round....prolly wshed they hadnt now....I find it enjoyable,and they arent shy in showing the troubles they have,and they (esp Ewan sp??) dont claim to be the worlds best riders...

XF650
25th October 2008, 17:02
I think its a great show.

I didn't even concider adventure riding until I saw the Long way Round.

Now my sports bike is for sale, and I can't think of anything else more engaging than getting out on my adventure bike.

:niceone: Ewan & Charlie

I get annoyed when people assume I'm into adv riding simply because of Ewan's & Charlie's exploits. I agree though that their doco's have been great for encouraging people into our sport. It's still the best way to see the real NZ.

Tony W
25th October 2008, 17:28
I get annoyed when people assume I'm into adv riding simply because of Ewan's & Charlie's exploits. I agree though that their doco's have been great for encouraging people into our sport. It's still the best way to see the real NZ.

I empathise with you XF. What they did is not adventure riding as we know it.
It's similar to a Harley owners' club experiencing "freedom" by riding in large groups, not overtaking the leader, all dressed similarly, followed by a support BUS, ffs ! So much for "individuality" and self sufficiency on the "road".

I find it amusing how some have fallen for the hype on TV.
I'm sure some people think "reality TV" is real.

I myself have been "adventure " riding since 1976, well before it was invented, I'm sure.

Balrog
25th October 2008, 18:50
Fair enough

For me, riding around the world and down through the middle east and africa would be a fantastic adventure.

Anybody who goes on big trips like that, gets my respect.

Tank
25th October 2008, 19:21
KTM turned them down on sponsoring the long way round....prolly wshed they hadnt now...

Indeed - I read that the 1200GS was the highest selling bike in the UK last year. (not counting scooters etc)

Tank
25th October 2008, 19:24
I think its a great show.

I didn't even consider adventure riding until I saw the Long way Round.

Now my sports bike is for sale, and I can't think of anything else more engaging than getting out on my adventure bike.

:niceone: Ewan & Charlie

Me as well - I got the V-Strom within a week of watching it. OK - I admit Im more the 'entry level' adv rider - but I love it!!!

bart
25th October 2008, 20:07
OK, I admit, I did enjoy the DVD.

My argument is like the Richard Branson deal. Is he the greatest explorer of all time???? Perhaps, but if you throw a pile of cash at anything, it becomes watered down and easy.:corn:

-easy--rider-
25th October 2008, 20:22
yeah i saw that episode and noticed the fire to. whats the point on them putting all that gear on there bikes when they have a truck following them. to make it seem real i guess?

-easy--rider-
25th October 2008, 20:24
Hell - yeah - Id love to do it.

And to make $$$ doing it - even better.

Still think my wife's hotter than Charlies tho'


his wife was alright what nationality is she?

BMWST?
25th October 2008, 20:28
yeah i saw that episode and noticed the fire to. whats the point on them putting all that gear on there bikes when they have a truck following them. to make it seem real i guess?
because at times they are seperate from the support group...

johannvr
25th October 2008, 20:51
Don't mean to hijack the thread - met this dude in South Africa in 2004 - he's "done it all" & mostly by himself ... now that's the not-so-easy way!

http://users.rio.com/tynda/Page20.html

RØKSTA
26th October 2008, 19:37
hi ppl, long way down was fantastic, as also with long way round, i read the books and the series of both, so cool trips. i hope to do this kind of trip in nz from top to bottom some day. does any one know where to get panniers for a xr650 fabricated at?

-easy--rider-
26th October 2008, 19:47
because at times they are seperate from the support group...

yeah but there not that far away.

XF650
27th October 2008, 08:14
yeah but there not that far away.

Normally they edit out the third rider but if you watch carefully, sometimes you get a glimpse of the extra bike. This is the guy who films Charlie & Ewan on those occasions when they are seperate from their massive support team. He's also the one who helps pick up their bikes, fixes the breakdowns, puts out their camp fires etc.
I reckon he deserves more recognition, especially when he has to put up with the tantrums.

JATZ
27th October 2008, 18:11
Normally they edit out the third rider but if you watch carefully, sometimes you get a glimpse of the extra bike. This is the guy who films Charlie & Ewan on those occasions when they are seperate from their massive support team. He's also the one who helps pick up their bikes, fixes the breakdowns, puts out their camp fires etc.
I reckon he deserves more recognition, especially when he has to put up with the tantrums.

That would be "Claudio" the other guy/camera man who rode with them.

IMHO #1 They were over prepared, but I guess they had to be.
#2 They made 2 bloody good adds for BMW and the manufacturers of the support vehicles
#3 It's good entertainment, something your interested in, or you wouldn't be looking at this forum
#4 Hats off to them, getting those big behemoth bikes through some of that country day after day after day, they must be faarkin heavy to pick up all the time.aye busajim

Anyway thats all I've got to say.......... as you were.

Padmei
27th October 2008, 18:54
Yep
They certainly are a love em or hate em couple of characters. I love em because even though they had the "wrong type" of bikes, had a big support crew & budget & fixers in all the countries, they brought to the masses who don't ride the experience & excitemet of a good long road trip.

They're the reason why I ride an adv bike & not a cruiser.:wari:

Mooch
27th October 2008, 20:51
I agree with the sentiment , A couple of movie stars that go out an do it rather than sitting in limo's and eating / staying in 5 star luxuary. They have my respect , and what and adventure ! They camped out the majority of the time and could have easly become ransom targets.

The books are a good read as well, lots of good humour and adventure. Interesting on seeing Claudio in a smaller bike this time. Still filmed the aftermath of his own big off. He's the man.

XF650
27th October 2008, 20:55
That would be "Claudio" the other guy/camera man who rode with them.

IMHO #1 They were over prepared, but I guess they had to be.
#2 They made 2 bloody good adds for BMW and the manufacturers of the support vehicles
#3 It's good entertainment, something your interested in, or you wouldn't be looking at this forum
#4 Hats off to them, getting those big behemoth bikes through some of that country day after day after day, they must be faarkin heavy to pick up all the time.aye busajim

Anyway thats all I've got to say.......... as you were.

Thanks Jatz, it's good to put a name to the 3rd rider.
Actually I owe Charlie a beer - my wife & I compete to answer questions on the British version of "who wants to be a millionaire". One tonight was asking what country was Livingston's base in Africa? Straight away I could answer Tanzania, because Charlie (& Claudio) rode through that spot on the one & only episode of "The Long Way Down" that I'v seen!!

NordieBoy
27th October 2008, 21:14
Normally they edit out the third rider but if you watch carefully, sometimes you get a glimpse of the extra bike. This is the guy who films Charlie & Ewan on those occasions when they are seperate from their massive support team. He's also the one who helps pick up their bikes, fixes the breakdowns, puts out their camp fires etc.
I reckon he deserves more recognition, especially when he has to put up with the tantrums.

Claudio bullshitted his way onto the team.
He had only ridden scooters and didn't have his full licence.
He's not a mechanic at all.

He is a cool dude though :niceone:

DR Girl
27th October 2008, 21:42
Just been reading posts re Long Way Round!!! Was quite taken with L W R Series when it was on TV 2 or 3 yrs ago.Now I'm riding again (dirt & adv) & have rewatched it think Charlie was a bit of soft cock/girl, needs to harden up!!! Too much gear, too many people sorting their shit & still Border entry probs etc!!Too many $'s thrown at it!! I want to see a Real MANS or GIRLS
ADV Series!!!! NB Loved Ewan though!!

gunnyrob
28th October 2008, 07:27
I must admit the LWR was one of the factors that motovated me into getting back to riding. If many others are also returning to the sport, it has to be a good thing.

Watching both series, I also reckoned that I don't need a balls out sprots bike, and from what I've seem on the couple of the adventure rides put on by Tri-boy & Rosie, :niceone:Adventure biking is lots of fun without worrying about speed cameras. I'm looking forward to the pootle up the Coromandel in November ....

As far as tours are concerned, Gareth Morgan reckoned the R1200GS is too heavy for serious dirt roading, therefore BMW has now released the F800, which would be ideal for one up go anywhere stuff. If anyone is keen to do a tour from Malaysia through Vietnam, China, U.K. & Capetown, I'm in! (When I win lotto)

strommergirl
28th October 2008, 14:14
Here in Canada, the first episode just finally aired. My husband and I traded our cruisers for more of the adventure riding bikes, I have a V-Strom and hubby got a KLR and we have had a blast so far! It is definitly a better way to see the world, getting off the pavement! We are looking forward to seeing the rest of the series, any show that has motorcycles in it gets our attention!

mountainboy65
28th October 2008, 14:31
I think it's a real shame that a lot of you guys think they are doing it to make money. They are wealthy enough as it is. Both trips have raised thousands of dollars for children's causes around the world. Just get your facts right before you start criticising. And I do agree with a lot of the comments here. if you want to have an adventure, get off your butt and get riding. There are far too many "armchair" critics. I'm off from india to UK start of 2010...can't wait!

Tank
28th October 2008, 15:09
I think it's a real shame that a lot of you guys think they are doing it to make money. They are wealthy enough as it is. Both trips have raised thousands of dollars for children's causes around the world. Just get your facts right before you start criticising. And I do agree with a lot of the comments here. if you want to have an adventure, get off your butt and get riding. There are far too many "armchair" critics. I'm off from india to UK start of 2010...can't wait!

If you think that they did this and didnt make any money you have to be kidding.

Yes they had a charity compoinent to the ride - but first and foremost it is a business to them. Charlie even comments (in the book if I remember correctly) how his career has taken a totally different turn now they have the 'long way franchise'.

Not taking away the $$$ they raised for Unicef - but please dont confuse this with a huge charity ride.

and Im not a critic - I loved the show and am slowly getting into more and more ADV riding. South island trip first (tame I know - but hey its a start).

NordieBoy
28th October 2008, 18:33
South island trip first (tame I know - but hey its a start).

Do the Maungatapu, Porika, Big River etc and see if it tames you or you tame it :D

OV Lander
28th October 2008, 18:47
So we've talked about these videos in several threads now, and there are still several schools of thought ranging from "Good on ya" to those who belittle anything anybody does.

For me though, the best thing to come of of the videos, other than the entertainment, is that my wife now undertands what I want to do, and why I want to do it!

Who's up for a ride?

JATZ
28th October 2008, 18:58
Do the Maungatapu, Porika, Big River etc and see if it tames you or you tame it :D

Add Lyall to Waimangaroa to that list :niceone:

XF650
28th October 2008, 20:09
So we've talked about these videos in several threads now, and there are still several schools of thought ranging from "Good on ya" to those who belittle anything anybody does.

For me though, the best thing to come of of the videos, other than the entertainment, is that my wife now undertands what I want to do, and why I want to do it!

Who's up for a ride?

Good point there re the wives. That's why I took mine to the ChCh viewing of the "African Odyssey", which is a far more realistic depiction of what we are doing (or aspire to do), with real life budgets.

JATZ
28th October 2008, 20:29
So we've talked about these videos in several threads now, and there are still several schools of thought ranging from "Good on ya" to those who belittle anything anybody does.

For me though, the best thing to come of of the videos, other than the entertainment, is that my wife now undertands what I want to do, and why I want to do it!

Who's up for a ride?


Good point there re the wives. That's why I took mine to the ChCh viewing of the "African Odyssey", which is a far more realistic depiction of what we are doing (or aspire to do), with real life budgets.

For Gods sake you 2, be carefull

Exhibit A... mrs jatz

Not all bad though I suppose, don't have to look to far for someone to go riding with

marks
28th October 2008, 20:30
Good point there re the wives. That's why I took mine to the ChCh viewing of the "African Odyssey", which is a far more realistic depiction of what we are doing (or aspire to do), with real life budgets.

and did it have the desired effect? - or do you still have to trade in 'quality time' chips for adventure riding chips?

XF650
28th October 2008, 20:56
and did it have the desired effect? - or do you still have to trade in 'quality time' chips for adventure riding chips?

Yip, plus she's looking to take up golf, which means she won't even miss me.
Handy too, if I take a week next month for that "extended" SI Adv ride. Perhaps we should invite Mrs Jatz?

Tank
29th October 2008, 10:28
as an aside - I see that they are about to film - you guessed it "The Long Way Up":

Ewan's UP for a new Long Way

Biker stars Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman are going the Long Way again - for a third TV series.

They will be filmed riding from Cape Horn through South and Central America to California.

The show, to be called Long Way Up, is already pencilled in for 2009.




Long Way Down, covering their adventures from Scotland to Cape Town, is a current BBC2 hit.


It followed Long Way Round, in which Ewan, 36, and Charley, 41, rode 19,000 miles round the world - storming DVD and book sales charts in the process.


The pals' journeys aid UNESCO. Charley said: "If people are happy to watch it we are more than happy to do it."

Tank
29th October 2008, 10:29
Do the Maungatapu, Porika, Big River etc and see if it tames you or you tame it :D


Add Lyall to Waimangaroa to that list :niceone:

Yeah, Yeah I know - What I was meaning is that I'm doing 'Gentlemens' Adventure riding - Gravel roads at the most.

Nothing compaired to real adventure riders. But an adventure for me at least.

Padmei
29th October 2008, 18:39
Yeah, Yeah I know - What I was meaning is that I'm doing 'Gentlemens' Adventure riding - Gravel roads at the most.

Nothing compaired to real adventure riders. But an adventure for me at least.

Adv riding was started by the first person to ride a motorbike. We all enjoy getting out there man!!

NordieBoy
29th October 2008, 19:05
Adv riding was started by the first person to ride a motorbike. We all enjoy getting out there man!!

Motu ?

Cross Rider
29th October 2008, 19:30
I remember my father in law telling me about blokes riding their old bsa's and such like through the haast to the coast from southland before the war on dirt tracks. He said that was normal riding because tar seal wasn't that abundant back then. Kiwi boys where doing it even back then for a normal weekends white baiting. Guess we are getting spoilt these days and to think I gave the harley boys a hard time for telling learner riders to take their cruisers off road.

XF650
29th October 2008, 20:48
Talking of the Harley Davidson brand - this is a reproduction of an early HD advertisment sign (I assume it's genuine?). Note that even back then they are promoting adventure riding.
The sign (shiney metal) isn't scanning too good but hopefully you can make out the words. What I can't fit in is a drawing on the top half of the sign, of a sidecar outfit going through some woods.

Cross Rider
30th October 2008, 15:32
Now thats one cool ad. Even has the the fear of missing out thrown in. Mind you if you went into a bar and spoke like that, they'd pour you a milk shake. Harley do market smart and from the age of the ad, they've been doing it for a while.

paulj
1st November 2008, 08:35
The series could be so much better. Rather than focusing on the girlie emotional aspects – I recall an extended closeup sequence of Boorman’s mug and him going on about a zit on his forehead (he’s always up against and worrying about something) – they should show more about the country its people and the actual ride itself – I’d even suggest the bikes too but maybe that would put off too many potential ad watchers!

One could be forgiven for questioning whether or not they actually rode the entire distance? Some stunt riders get the bikes dirty, Chas n Ewan trawl a few pubs in their leathers, then next morning shoot some vid of them on their bikes in various locations. Cheap and easy.

Compared to the metaljockey’s written narrative and pics, Long way Down and its predecessors are pure soap. Pity.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=269251