New to this...

#1
I'm planning on doing at least 2 fairly long rides this year in the short Iron Butt time frames. Can anyone help me understand exactly what is required?
Thanks in advance
 

SteveAikens

Premier Member
IBR Finisher
#3
Start with focusing on yourself. Know and understand your limitations. Pay attention to what your body tells you. That applies to everyone that rides - all the time.

That said, if you give us a hint about you, your experience on bikes, what you ride, where you intend to ride, it would help - there's a lot more to it than just "planning on doing at least 2 fairly long rides" to even think about offering suggestions.
 

EricV

Premier Member
IBR Finisher
#4
If you are not a current IBA member, the basic entry level rides outside the US are the Saddle Sore 1600km in 24 hours, (SS1600Km), and the Bun Burner 2500km in 36 hours, (BB2500Km). Rules for both are at the first link.

In many ways the BB2500Km is an easier ride because although it is longer, you have time to stop and get some sleep in the middle if need be. It's not uncommon for someone to aim for the SS1600Km in 24 hours, fail to meet the time deadline, then get some sleep and get back on the bike to finish the BB2500Km ride in 36 hours with success.

Generally, riders complete the SS1600Km ride in about 18 hours if they have a solid plan and don't encounter any problems during the ride. But always remember, you have 24 hours! There is no extra bonus for doing it in less time. It's a 24 hour challenge. On slower roads, it takes longer. Speeding isn't recommended or required and generally just adds to your fatigue during the ride. It's just about staying on the bike and covering the kms. If you do your attempts in the US, it will be the SS1K ride or BB1500 ride in miles. Same basic rules. More interstate in the US if you choose to ride the faster roads.

Edit - The Ride List
 

Dave28117

Premier Member
#6
don't get intimidated by the process. it's really fairly simple. there's a form to fill out to keep track of your stops. take pictures of your gas receipts with your odometer showing to verify the miles. When you are done, turn it all in and you'll get the documents back.

Check the rules as noted above. if you have more questions, feel free to ask. Plenty of us will help you out.
 

yon

Premier Member
#7
1. Read the rules and understand what you need to do

2. Read the long-distance riding tips

3. Checklists really help. Equipment checklist. Maintenance checklist. Gas station/DBR check checklist.

4. Take a test trip, mileage doesn't really matter, but treat it like a ride in terms of documentation.

5. Planning your route really helps.

6. Know the range of your bike and plan your gas stops around it. Way less stress than looking for gas stations while running on fumes. Have a buffer in case you run into headwinds, etc., that reduce your range. Don't be afraid to take extra gas stops if needed.

7. Know your limitations and know what parts of your body start to ache. Butt hurts after awhile? Get a buttpad. Back hurts after awhile? Consider a back brace. Legs cramping? Highway pegs, having a bike you can stand up on, and/or being able to move around on the bike (sitting on the pillion, etc.) helps.

8. Design a figure-8 ride for your first ride. Make a 500 mile loop back to your starting gas station and then evaluate yourself and the bike. Can you both continue? If so, do the second half of the figure-8.

9. There will be minor setbacks that occur during every ride. Cup holder randomly falling off while riding. Rain suddenly falling from a clear sky. >75% of the gas pumps you use don't have receipt paper. o_O

In the end, it's totally worth it and you'll look back with fond memories. Good luck!