New Route to be Unveiled October 26th at TouraTexas Rally
Seattle, WA – (October 3, 2024) – Following the success of two recent route launches in 2024, Backcountry Discovery Routes® (BDR®), the leading non-profit for adventure motorcycling, continues to enrich the ADV community with the release of its latest route, the Big Bend BDR-X in West Texas.
Watch the trailer now at: www.RideBDR.com/BigBend
The full route and film will be unveiled during a live YouTube broadcast on Saturday, October 26th, streamed from Touratech’s TouraTexas Rally. The event will feature a 40-minute documentary, the release of GPS tracks, a waterproof route map, and comprehensive online travel resources. Riders can also look forward to live appearances from the BDR expedition team, offering an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the route’s development and their inaugural ride.
Event Details:
- Big Bend BDR-X Live Route & Film Release
- Date: Saturday, October 26th
- Time: 5:00 pm Pacific / 7:00 pm Central / 8:00 pm Eastern
- Watch at: www.RideBDR.com/BigBend
- Attend the TouraTexas Rally in person by purchasing weekend or weekday passes at: www.austinmotoventures.com/touratexas-rally
Photos by Miguel Santana
Exploring the Remote Heart of Texas
As the newest addition to BDR’s expanding series of shorter, loop-style routes for dual-sport and adventure motorcyclists, the Big Bend BDR-X features a 600-mile loop through the rugged terrain of Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, and surrounding areas. This route offers a deep dive into one of America’s most remote regions, filled with incredible desert landscapes, untamed natural beauty, hidden historical sites, vibrant artistic communities, and even an optional foot crossing into Mexico at the Rio Grande.
“We’re excited to bring this route to life in West Texas. Big Bend is one of the most remote and iconic regions in the U.S. The blend of the expansive Chihuahuan Desert, the lush banks of the Rio Grande, and the majesty of the Chisos Mountains offers a perfect backdrop for riders seeking a real desert adventure.”
- Michael Bielecki, BDR Routes Manager and Route Co-Architect
Get Ready to Ride
The Big Bend BDR-X will be open for riders immediately following its release and is best experienced in the fall (October to November) or spring (March to April). With its scenic backcountry routes and remote wilderness, this route is poised to become one of the most coveted ADV destinations in the U.S.
For more information and to join the live broadcast, visit: www.RideBDR.com/BigBend .
Industry Partners
The Big Bend BDR-X was developed in collaboration with Harley-Davidson, which tested its Pan America 1250 motorcycles on the route.
“The BDR-X Big Bend TX experience left me with the desire to explore more of Texas on Pan America. The rich history, topography and culture of this part of Texas would not have been known if it weren’t for this route. Giddyup and Lets Ride!” - Jim Klubens, Harley Davidson Pan America Tour Manager
The project also received backing from motorcycle gear and apparel sponsor Alpinestars and local training and touring partner Austin Moto ADVentures. Though relatively new to the ADV training and touring industry, Austin Moto Adventures has quickly built a reputation as a premier motorcycle training resort, offering on-site lodging and meals. They provided essential expedition support and local knowledge during the development of the route, and will be offering guided tours of the Big Bend area shortly after the official route launch.
“It was such an honor to share this vastly underrated and overlooked region of the country with the BDR team. The splendor of the west Texas desert is home to some of the most beautiful flora, fauna and scenery in the country. Your first visit will not be your last. At Austin Moto ADVentures, we look forward to introducing you to the hidden gems and highlights we've uncovered over the years.”
- Rosson Richardson, Owner of Austin Moto ADVentures
TouraTexas Rally
The TouraTexas Rally, a new addition to the ADV rally circuit, is presented in partnership with Austin Moto ADVentures and Touratech, and will take place the weekend of October 24-27 at Austin Moto Adventures ranch in Burnett, TX, just outside of Austin. This three-day event will include factory demo trucks, guided on-property rides, self-guided tours of the scenic Hill Country, expert-led clinics by industry professionals, obstacle courses, games, and more. BDR will be among the vendors at the rally, offering route advice, sharing information, and selling the newly released Big Bend maps and merchandise.
For more information about Austin Moto Adventures or to attend the TouraTexas Rally, visit austinmotoventures.com .
