On February 3, in Doctoral, south of Gran Canaria, an off-road trail motorcycle driving course was held led by Eduardo Naval, an instructor with extensive experience in competitions such as the Dakar. The course had a theoretical part, where aspects such as driving techniques and equipment handling were addressed, followed by a practical session that allowed participants to apply what they learned in the field. The day concluded with a meal at a local restaurant, offering an opportunity for interaction and exchange of experiences among participants.
In the serene and rugged town of Doctoral, in the south of Gran Canaria, I was fortunate to participate in an off-road trail motorcycle riding course that not only challenged my skills, but also immersed me in an unforgettable experience marked by adventure, learning and camaraderie. This event, held on February 3, 2023, was an intense day, instructed by the renowned Eduardo Naval, whose career in the world of motorcycling and extreme competitions precedes him.
Eduardo, with his extensive experience in renowned events such as the Camel Trophy and eight participations in the Dakar, not only proved to be a master of technique and strategy, but also an inspiring guide. His knowledge of Tenerife's terrain and dedication to exploring the most spectacular corners of the Canary Islands have given him a unique understanding of the challenge and beauty of driving in these landscapes.
The group of participants, made up of Alberto, Nicolás, Walter, Kornel and Alfonso, came from diverse backgrounds but shared a common passion: the love for motorcycles and the desire to master off-road riding techniques. The structure of the course, divided into a theoretical and a practical part, allowed a holistic understanding of what it means to ride a trail motorcycle on demanding terrain.
The theoretical session was a deep immersion in the world of off-road motorcycling. Eduardo shared his knowledge about the different aspects of the motorcycle, the necessary equipment and the protections essential to guarantee our safety. Through detailed exposition, we explore essential driving techniques, such as correct body and hand position, leg placement, and how to adjust our body in varied situations such as uphill, downhill, acceleration, braking, and even how to lift. the motorcycle off the ground after a fall. This theoretical knowledge also covered the different types of terrain we could face, from tight curves to steep ups and downs and loose terrain.
The practical phase of the course was where we really put our skills and acquired knowledge to the test. Under Eduardo's watchful eye and instructions, we faced a variety of challenges that replicated real off-road conditions. The practice covered everything discussed in theory, allowing us to experience first-hand the excitement and difficulties of trail riding. Each obstacle and each new terrain was an opportunity to grow and improve, always guided by the expert advice of our instructor.
The off-road trail motorcycle driving course at Doctoral was not only a day of technical learning, but an experience that reminded us of the importance of respect for nature, the machine and our own limits. Eduardo's guide, combined with the natural beauty of Gran Canaria and the camaraderie among the participants, turned this course into an unforgettable adventure that I will always carry in my memory.
For those looking to challenge their limits, explore stunning landscapes and immerse themselves in the culture of off-road motorcycling, this course is a must-see experience. You take away not only valuable knowledge and skills, but also memories and friendships that last far beyond the dusty roads and challenging routes of Gran Canaria.
At the end of the course, the group moved to a local restaurant in Arinaga, where we enjoyed Canarian hospitality and typical dishes from the region. This moment of camaraderie served to strengthen the ties between the participants and share our expectations and previous experiences on two wheels.
As I conclude this story about our motorcycle adventure, I cannot help but thank Monika, whose mastery with the camera immortalized every moment. Her discreet yet attentive presence ensured that we not only carried with us vivid memories, but also captured ones, allowing us to relive every moment just by opening the photo album. Thank you, Monika, for documenting this experience so vividly.
See you on the next course!
Kornel
