Clare's KTM Freeride
NAME:
Clare Griffin MCC MEMBER SINCE:
2019 WHAT VEHICLE DO YOU USE TO COMPETE IN MCC EVENTS?
Currently a KTM Freeride 350. In the past I've also used a Yamaha XT225 Serow. HOW HAS THE VEHICLE PERFORMED AT MCC EVENTS?
Just handlebar risers and a bash plate - the stock bike is pretty good. And quite a few new brake and clutch levers, but they don't really count as modifications! I might change the shock absorber for a softer one this year as the standard shock is pretty hard. HOW HAS THE VEHICLE PERFORMED AT MCC EVENTS?
We've never come away with more than a finisher's certificate but that's entirely down to the rider, not the bike! It's a complete delight to ride on section, especially on steep muddy slopes or rocks where it feels like riding a border collie! Sections with an off-camber restart box are my nemesis, as its so tall I can only get one toenail on the ground. Its less civilised on the road - no indicators and a candle for a front light, which I supplement with a headtorch. The fuel light comes on at 65 miles, which makes the long overnight liason sections interesting - I'm always on the lookout for the next petrol station. And it has a tiny dashboard, which doesn't leave much space for a roadbook holder so I mostly follow my husband and keep the roadbook and some maps in my rucksack. WHAT ADIVCE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT ENTERING THEIR FIRST LONG DISTANCE TRIAL?
Enjoy the views, the company and the cakes, and don't worry about the medals!
Clare Griffin MCC MEMBER SINCE:
2019 WHAT VEHICLE DO YOU USE TO COMPETE IN MCC EVENTS?
Currently a KTM Freeride 350. In the past I've also used a Yamaha XT225 Serow. HOW HAS THE VEHICLE PERFORMED AT MCC EVENTS?
Just handlebar risers and a bash plate - the stock bike is pretty good. And quite a few new brake and clutch levers, but they don't really count as modifications! I might change the shock absorber for a softer one this year as the standard shock is pretty hard. HOW HAS THE VEHICLE PERFORMED AT MCC EVENTS?
We've never come away with more than a finisher's certificate but that's entirely down to the rider, not the bike! It's a complete delight to ride on section, especially on steep muddy slopes or rocks where it feels like riding a border collie! Sections with an off-camber restart box are my nemesis, as its so tall I can only get one toenail on the ground. Its less civilised on the road - no indicators and a candle for a front light, which I supplement with a headtorch. The fuel light comes on at 65 miles, which makes the long overnight liason sections interesting - I'm always on the lookout for the next petrol station. And it has a tiny dashboard, which doesn't leave much space for a roadbook holder so I mostly follow my husband and keep the roadbook and some maps in my rucksack. WHAT ADIVCE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT ENTERING THEIR FIRST LONG DISTANCE TRIAL?
Enjoy the views, the company and the cakes, and don't worry about the medals!
