The 2016 edition of the Pune Off-road Expedition is going to be conducted on July 31. The event will be flagged off at 9am from Panshet Boating Club, near Panshet Dam, Pune, and will take the participants through one of the most treacherous motorable trails across the Sahyadri mountain range.
Last year, the Pune Off-road Expedition witnessed over 300 enthusiasts sign up for the challenge, though the organisers expect the number to go up to around 600. The challenging route has to been chalked out to test the riders' endurance as well as riding skills. It will take the participants through a combination of treacherous terrain including broken tarmac, water crossings, knee-deep slush and slippery mountain trails. The heavy rains this year is expected to raise the bar as compared to the previous year’s challenge, so don’t expect this to be a cakewalk!
Unlike other events of its kind, the Pune Off-road Expedition is not a competitive event, but more of a platform for like-minded off-roading enthusiasts to come together and tackle the 70 kilometre course. With checkpoints at every 15 kilometre interval, the organisers would be keeping a track of the participants to ensure their safety. Enthusiasts can choose to bring either cars or motorcycles according to their preference.
The entry fees for the Pune Off-road Expedition will be Rs 600. Those wishing to be a part of this event can register directly at the venue. The Pune Off-road Expedition 2016 will also have camping facilities arranged at the end point of the event for participants, for an additional charge. To ensure the safety of the participants, the organisers have made safety gear like certified full-face helmet, gloves, riding jacket/armour, riding pants or knee/elbow pads and ankle length boots mandatory for the riders.
