The Road2Rally book is, for me, the most important project I’ve worked on in the world of rally sport. I’ve been fascinated by the Dakar Rally since I was about eleven years old. By the age of fourteen, I was already following it closely – and deep inside I knew: One day, I want to do this too.
But I didn’t know anyone with experience. Not even someone who rode enduro or motocross. In the end, it took me more than 20 years until I finally joined my very first roadbook training.
That’s exactly why this book was born. My motivation was simple: to bring together all the knowledge and information I wish I had back then – everything that would have given me the courage to just get started, sign up, and learn along the way.
Through my podcasts Dakar.FM and Rally Talk, I’ve built a strong network in the rally world. Thanks to that, I was able to include valuable tips from Dakar finishers such as Mike Wiedemann, Willem Avenant, and Justin Gerlach – as well as insights from factory rider Tobias Ebster. This means the book combines proven, real-world expertise with my own experiences.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including:
an overview of rally events,
helpful groups and networks on social media,
a complete packing list,
practical preparation tips.
Of course, there will be additions and deeper insights in a future second edition – but the foundation is there.
My mission is simple: to make it easier for people to get into rally sport. I want to encourage as many as possible to take that first step and follow their own adventure.
👉 The Road2Rally book is available now on Amazon – in both German and English.
You find the book unter the titel: Roadbook to Rally: Your Beginner’s Guide to Rally Racing
Since April 2025, I’ve been riding the Kove 450 Rally in the high suspension version equipped with Kayaba components. My first impressions came from everyday use, followed by a true endurance test during the Bosnia Rally in May, covering 1,400 kilometers. At the time, the bike was practically brand new – I had only ridden around 300 kilometers, of which about 50 km were off-road.
I’m 173 cm tall – a height at which many riders ask themselves whether the high or low suspension version is better suited. Personally, I’m used to taller seat heights from sport enduros and feel comfortable with the taller geometry. The decision for the high version proved to be right for my use case: rally and technical terrain.
Background & Technical Data
The Kove 450 Rally is a street-legal rally bike with a 449 cc single-cylinder engine, liquid- and oil-cooled (with oil cooler), Euro 5+ compliant. In its standard version, it delivers 42 hp at 8,500 rpm and 35–40 Nm at 6,500–7,000 rpm.
In race configuration, it reaches around 51 hp. In everyday use, it weighs approximately 155 kg fully fueled. Depending on the version (high or low), suspension travel ranges from 305/300 mm to 260/250 mm, with seat heights of about 960 mm and 910 mm, respectively.
The Kove gained attention during the 2023 Dakar when three private teams competed with it – all of them finished the rally. It’s also used as a customer bike by teams like Freedom Rally Racing.
My Real-World Experience
Since April, I’ve used the high version (Kayaba setup) with about 300 km of prior usage, including roughly 50 km off-road – then 1,400 km at the Bosnia Rally with challenging terrain and climbs exceeding 1,700 meters.
Modifications included:
Wider handlebar
Open air filter with de-cat header + stock silencer
Coober ECU (performance mapping, approx. 48 hp instead of 42 hp)
Acerbis handguards
Short levers for clutch and brake
Twalcom nav tower with low mounting position
These changes clearly improved throttle response and overall power delivery. It’s important to note that using an open air filter with the stock catalytic converter can cause thermal issues in the cylinder head – I recommend replacing the header with a cat-less version when using a sports air filter.
Handling on Different Terrain
Gravel roads: Smooth throttle response, good stability, suspension absorbs well. At speeds over 140 km/h, power starts to taper off. Forest trails: Good balance of agility and stability, reliable braking. Loose rocks: Stable and predictable, low front tanks don’t affect balance. Heavier than a sport enduro, but not clumsy. Steep climbs: Traction and power delivery are sufficient. Front wheel lifts require more clutch work. Technical terrain: Reasonably nimble, but throttle input is a bit jerky at low speeds despite the ECU tune. Still manageable.
Navigation & Ergonomics
The overall ergonomics of the bike suit me well. I prefer a slightly wider handlebar with less sweep, but that’s personal preference. Ideally, the footpegs would be moved 1 cm further back – again, personal preference. All switches and controls are easy to operate.
Finding a navigation mount took some time. I wanted the roadbook positioned as flat and low as possible. Many solutions didn’t meet that requirement. I had previous good experience with Twalcom’s Nav Tower Light on my Beta and found it again suitable here.
The Twalcom nav tower proved ideal: low, stable, vibration-free mounting with the roadbook at a sporty eye level – solid for rally use.
Strengths of the Kove 450 Rally:
Geometry and ergonomics are well-balanced
High-quality suspension (Yuan/Kayaba) with sufficient travel
Stable at speed yet agile in technical sections
Moderate power increase with Coober ECU (~48 hp)
Affordable spare and wear parts, decent aftermarket support
Good maintenance access (air filter, electronics)
Wide range of accessories now available (e.g., Arrow, Twalcom)
Excellent price-performance ratio – around €9,000 retail in Europe, ~$9,299 in the USA
Detachable ABS standard, large TFT display, USB/Bluetooth support
Weaknesses of the Kove 450 Rally:
Heat shield on the tank came loose; some finish issues
Rear tank ventilation and fuel flow require additional hardware
Steering damper mount sits low; risk of contact with steering stem bolt
Mix of hex, Torx, and Allen bolts complicates maintenance
Inaccurate fuel gauge; reserve amount not reliably indicated
Rear brake requires strong input to lock the wheel
Throttle remains twitchy at low speed despite ECU adjustments
Conclusion
he Kove 450 Rally delivers solid rally performance in a street-legal package – and at a price point significantly below that of established brands. It’s not a high-end race replica, but it’s a very interesting option for newcomers or private rally riders.
That said, a bit of critical nuance is necessary. The Kove 450 Rally is often hailed as the long-awaited unicorn for anyone seeking a lightweight adventure bike. And yes – it certainly can be that, offering a great foundation for customization.
However, riders transitioning from a twin-cylinder travel enduro or a beginner-friendly dual sport like the CRF 250 / 300 L may find the initial experience with the Rally a bit harsh. The bike is decidedly sporty – both in terms of geometry and throttle response. Add to that the acoustic footprint: especially with an open air filter, there’s been no particular focus on rider comfort. Intake noise and engine acoustics are very noticeable.
The gearbox shifts well, but it’s short and crisp – again, more like a competition-ready enduro than a mellow travel bike. This whole package brings the Kove much closer to a race-oriented enduro in terms of character – and clearly more raw than the machines many riders might consider replacing with a lighter alternative.
For those who prioritize comfort on asphalt, along with service and dealer infrastructure, bikes like the Kove X800 Rally may be worth a closer look. But riders primarily focused on off-road performance with true rally DNA – and who are willing to make a few minor modifications – will find a compelling and high-potential platform in the Kove 450 Rally.
In my case, the Kove has proven itself exceptionally well. The foundation is solid, and with a few tweaks, the bike is perfectly suited for rally use – and equally up for adventure rides on routes like the TET or ACT.
And beyond all the technical facts: owning a real rally bike in the garage has been a long-held dream of mine – and this one finally made it come true.
The Dakar 2026 is just around the corner – and with it, one of the most exciting and profound developments in the rally’s recent history. From January 3 to 17, 2026, riders, teams, and fans will gather for the 7th edition in Saudi Arabia – with new challenges, tougher stages, and a clear desire to revive the roots of adventure racing. For motorcycle riders, this means: more autonomy, more navigation, more endurance – and maybe a touch more of that old-school magic.
The 2026 Route – Loops, Layers & Sweat
The rally starts and finishes in the coastal town of Yanbu on the Red Sea. The total distance is around 8,000 km, with approximately 5,000 km of special stages. In between: a well-deserved rest day in Riyadh before returning to the loops.
What’s new: – No Empty Quarter this time – instead, cleverly designed loop stages that reduce logistics but remain demanding for riders. – Separate routes for motorcycles and cars on four stages – a smart step to increase safety and fairness.
Back to the Roots: The New Marathon Stages
Two new marathon stages are on the schedule for 2026. And they carry the spirit of the infamous “48h Chrono Stage”:
– No service, no mechanics. – No tents. – Overnight stays in the middle of nowhere. – Meals consist of military rations.
This demonstrates the organizers’ intention to give the modernized Dakar a rougher, more original face again.
Motorcycles in Focus: Navigation, Nerves & New Opportunities
For the two-wheel category, the new structure marks a return to real rally skills: – Navigation takes on an even greater role. – Tire and energy management becomes critical. – Young riders receive more visibility and spotlight.
With the retirement of Kevin Benavides and Pablo Quintanilla, 2026 also marks the beginning of a new sporting era.
New Categories, New Opportunities: The Stock Class Arrives
With the introduction of the revised Stock Class (T2), Dakar 2026 also opens the door to more accessibility in other categories: – Budget cap: €300,000–500,000 – Reduced homologation requirements – Rugged, near-production vehicles – e.g. Land Rover Defender
This broader push for accessibility and simplification also inspires developments in the motorcycle category.
More Media Access, More Fan Engagement
Another goal of Dakar 2026: more visibility – both on-site and worldwide: – Loop stages enable greater media presence at key locations – More drone coverage, easier access for teams – Enhanced fan experience through social media and bivouac visits
Sustainability & Technology: Mission Future
– Under the Dakar Future initiative, all elite cars and trucks must meet ultra-low emission standards starting in 2026. – The Mission 1000 program continues: hybrid, electric, and hydrogen vehicles will participate in testing mode – turning the bivouac into a green lab.
W2RC 2026 – Strategically Important for Motorcycles Too
Dakar serves as the opening round of the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC). The 2026 calendar includes: – Saudi Arabia (Dakar) – Portugal – Morocco – Argentina (Desafío Ruta 40) – Abu Dhabi (replacing South Africa)
Speculation & Reality: What Will Motorcycle Rallying Look Like in a CO₂-Neutral Dakar 2030?
An ambitious goal is on the table: Dakar aims to be CO₂-neutral by 2030. While hybrid engines, e-fuels, and hydrogen solutions seem technically feasible for cars and trucks, this raises big questions for the motorcycle category.
So far, Mission 1000 has only tested electric motorcycles – under real conditions, but outside of the main competition. The results have been underwhelming: limited range, thermal issues, and questionable durability in desert conditions.
The Africa Eco Race has only ever been completed by an electric motorcycle once – and far outside of competition ranking.
Three future scenarios: 1. Hybrid motorcycle systems 2. Synthetic fuels (e-fuels) 3. A separate category for alternative powertrains
Conclusion: If the Dakar Rally is to survive in the form we know and love by 2030, real solutions are needed – not just PR slogans. Perhaps the shift doesn’t begin with bans or mandates, but with innovation in the hands of riders and teams who are already willing to explore new paths.
This week marks the end of an era in the world of rally raid: Pablo Quintanilla and Kevin Benavides, two of the biggest names on two wheels, have both announced their retirement – each for very different, yet equally significant reasons.
🇨🇱 Pablo Quintanilla – The Chilean Consistency Bows Out
Turning point: During Stage 8 of the 2025 Dakar Rally, Pablo suffered a serious crash, lost consciousness, sustained bruises and a shoulder injury – enough to convince him to call it a day.
Career highlights: Two FIM World Championship titles (2016, 2017); three Dakar podiums (P2 in 2020 & 2022); over 15 years as a professional, most recently a key player in the Honda factory team.
Farewell quote:
“Today was a very important day for me. I have announced my retirement… I had the opportunity to win two world championships and stand on the Dakar podium three times… The last few years … were a pleasure as part of the Monster Energy Honda HRC team.”
Conclusion: Quintanilla ends his motorcycle career with dignity – and still young enough to consider a future in four-wheel racing.
🇦🇷 Kevin Benavides – The Two-Time Champion Makes His Decision
Reason for retirement: A serious arm injury during training in 2024, accompanied by nerve damage, left Kevin unable to fully control his right arm. As a result, he has stepped away from professional motorcycle racing.
Achievements: Two-time Dakar champion (Honda 2021, KTM 2023); part of the Red Bull KTM Factory Team since 2021; made a final appearance in 2025 – likely his last on a bike.
Statement:
“Today is not an easy day, but it’s definitely a special one… I’ve made one of the hardest decisions of my life: to bring my professional motorcycle racing career to an end.”
Future: Kevin plans to return to the Dakar in the four-wheel category.
🔍 What This Means for Honda, KTM & the Sport
Honda HRC not only loses a fast rider in Quintanilla, but also an experienced leader. The search for a replacement (Michael Docherty, Konrad Dąbrowski, Mathieu Dovèze) is now underway.
Red Bull KTM must replace another key figure with Kevin stepping down. While Luciano Benavides (his brother) is already a top performer, Kevin’s experience will be hard to replace.
In the broader picture of the FIM Rally GP, we are losing two riders who have consistently been in the top 5 for years. Their departure opens the field – creating opportunities for a new generation of rally talent.
📌 Recap & Outlook – The Rally Update
Rider
Retirement
Highlights
Future
Pablo Quintanilla
After Dakar 2025
2x FIM World Champion, 3x Dakar podium
Possible move to four-wheel racing
Kevin Benavides
June 2025
2x Dakar Champion
Plans to race in the Dakar auto category
🏍️ Who Will Fill the Gaps at Honda – and What’s Happening at KTM?
The retirement of Pablo Quintanilla leaves a clear vacancy in Honda HRC’s lineup. With Skyler Howes and Tosha Schareina already in place, and José Ignacio Cornejo having switched to Hero Motosports, there’s room for new energy.
Possible candidates:
🔸 Michael Docherty (South Africa – BAS World KTM) Explosively fast, Rally2 stage winner, technically skilled. A factory deal with Honda would be a big step up – and a chance for Honda to develop a fan favorite.
🔸 Konrad Dąbrowski (Poland – DUUST Rally Team) A tactically smart and consistent rider. A long-term development project with great potential for Honda.
🔸 Mathieu Dovèze (France – BAS World KTM) Impressive Dakar 2024 performance, including a Rally2 stage win. A quiet contender who could shine under the right conditions.
❓ Mason Klein Currently riding for Kove. While Honda would offer a stronger platform, Klein is deeply involved with Kove. A move to Honda could happen, but not before 2026/27.
💰 Financial Pressure at KTM – Honda’s Opportunity?
KTM is reportedly under financial pressure, with several high-paying contracts set to expire. This could shift the rider market – away from salary bidding wars and toward stability and development.
➡️ For Honda, this opens the door to position itself as a reliable and attractive platform for young talent.
🚗 What’s Next for Quintanilla & Benavides?
Both riders have made it clear that while their two-wheel careers may be over, their motorsport journeys are not.
Kevin Benavides has confirmed his plans to race in the car category at Dakar in the future.
Pablo Quintanilla has left the door open for a transition into a four-wheeled cockpit – possibly a side-by-side or rally-raid car.
Conclusion: We may not have seen the last of them – just the end of one chapter. And if anyone knows how to navigate the desert, it’s these two.
There are brands – and then there are passion projects. MIRA Active Wear is most definitely the latter. What began with a single custom-made jersey at the 2014 Amageza Rally has grown into a small but fine workshop for rally apparel with soul. Behind it all are Gerrit and Marique Du Toit, a husband-and-wife team from South Africa who turned their passion for off-road racing and love of individuality into something truly unique.
The name MIRA stands for Motorsport International Riding Apparel – but it also holds deeper meaning: Mira is the name of their daughter, who was born with Trisomy 21. Her courage, uniqueness and strength are reflected in every piece of clothing MIRA produces today.
From Desert to the World – The Story
2014, Amageza Rally. Gerrit is competing. His wife Marique, a fashion designer with a keen eye for pattern and construction, creates a one-of-a-kind jersey for him – printed with selfies from friends and supporters. The community is thrilled. What began as a symbol of connection became the spark for something bigger.
By 2018, the first MIRA rally jackets make it to the world stage: the Dakar Rally. Donovan van den Langenberg and Willem du Toit wear MIRA on the toughest tracks on the planet.
Today, well over 150 custom rider kits around the globe bear the MIRA name – handcrafted for hobby riders and pro teams alike. And each one tells a story.
What Makes MIRA Unique – The Products
MIRA doesn’t just make clothing – they build gear for personalities. It all starts with your measurements and your design. Whether you need a rally jacket, pants, MX jersey or rain protection – at MIRA, you define how you want to show up in the race. They also offer custom solutions for adventure riders, cold-weather gear for extreme environments, and tailored teamwear.
Key features at a glance:
✅ 100% made-to-measure: tailored to your body, ethos and style
✅ Airtech mesh lining for breathability and fast moisture wicking
✅ Optional vents, pockets, hydration access, protector integration, reflective elements
✅ High-quality sublimation prints with bespoke graphics
✅ Sponsor logo placement on request
✅ Each suit comes in its own pack bag – lightweight and travel-ready
MIRA produces gear for individuals and teams – worldwide. From South Africa to Europe. From training sessions to the Dakar.
My Story – and Our Joint Project
I was searching for a rally suit that was more than just gear. I wanted something that fit me – my story, my project. That’s when I discovered MIRA.
For me, a dream came true: my first custom-made rally suit, printed with my own design, handcrafted in South Africa. But what I found was more than just great equipment – it became a meaningful friendship. The values, the spirit, the attention to detail – with MIRA, I felt understood from the very start.
That’s why we at Roadbook2Rally have teamed up with Gerrit and Marique to bring something special to our community:
🎉 Special Offer: 15% off all MIRA Rally Jackets – exclusively at Roadbook2Rally!
Whether it’s a rally jacket, jersey or pants – now’s your chance to get your custom-made gear!
🛠️ Custom-built.
🌍 Shipped worldwide.
📬 Interested? Contact: info@road2rally.de
MIRA is more than apparel. It’s an attitude.
For people who know that real adventure isn’t off the rack.
👉 Follow MIRA on Instagram: @miraactivewear
👉 Or visit their website: www.miraactivewear.co.za
The Rally World Sees a Major Change: South African rider Bradley Cox has officially signed as a factory rider for the Sherco TVS Rally Factory Team. He takes over from experienced Portuguese rider Rui Gonçalves, who announced his retirement after an impressive career.
🏁 Bradley Cox: The Rise of a Talent Bradley Cox, son of South African off-road legend Alfie Cox, has made a name for himself in recent years. After winning the Rally2 World Cup in 2024 and making his debut in the RallyGP category at Dakar 2025—cut short by a crash—he is now ready for new challenges. His first race for Sherco will be the Safari Rally in South Africa from May 18 to 24. “It’s a dream to ride for a factory team,” said Cox. “I’ve already spent a few days on the bike and feel very comfortable. I’m excited about the upcoming races, especially the W2RC round in South Africa!”
🏍️ Rui Gonçalves: A Worthy Farewell Rui Gonçalves, who was runner-up in the MX2 World Championship in 2009, transitioned to rally raid in 2021 and impressed with a 19th place in his Dakar debut. Despite technical setbacks in the following years, he consistently showed resilience. At Dakar 2025, he achieved a remarkable 11th place overall. In an emotional farewell post, Gonçalves thanked Sherco: “Thank you Sherco Racing Factory for the good memories and the things we learned together. Now it’s time for a new chapter.”
🔄 A Generational Shift at Sherco With Gonçalves stepping down and Cox stepping in, Sherco is aiming for a blend of experience and youthful energy. Cox will race alongside riders like Lorenzo Santolino and Harith Noah, who have already brought success to the team. This move highlights Sherco’s commitment to nurturing fresh talent while relying on proven experience.
🌍 Looking Ahead: Sherco’s Future in Rally Raid The signing of Bradley Cox marks a strategic move for Sherco to climb further in the rally scene. With his experience and ambition, Cox could play a key role in Sherco’s future. His debut at the Safari Rally is highly anticipated, and the rally world is watching closely to see what comes next.
Roadbook to Rally will continue to follow the developments around Bradley Cox and Sherco and keep you up to date with all the latest news.
With the official announcement on May 5, 2025, it’s now confirmed:
Tobias Ebster, the talented rider from Tyrol, has been named the newest factory rider for the Hero MotoSports rally team.
After impressive performances on the rally scene—most notably at the 2024 Dakar Rally, where he won the “Original by Motul” category and was named Best Rookie—Ebster now has the opportunity to prove himself at the factory level.
🏁 Career Overview
Born in the Zillertal Valley, Austria, Tobias Ebster began his motorsport career in motocross and enduro. His breakthrough came in 2022 with a victory at the FIM Bajas World Cup in Dubai and a win in the Rally 2 category at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge. Despite injuries and setbacks, Ebster always showed resilience and came back stronger.
🏆 Major Achievements
Dakar 2025: 9th overall and best privateer
Dakar 2024: Winner of the “Original by Motul” category and Best Rookie award
FIM Bajas World Cup 2022: Overall winner in Dubai
Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge: Winner in the Rally 2 category
Rallye du Maroc 2024: Top 20 overall, 5th place in Rally 2
These accomplishments drew the attention of Hero MotoSports, who now welcomes the young Austrian alongside teammates like Ross Branch and Nacho Cornejo.
🛠️ From Pizza Delivery to Factory Rider
To fund his rally career, Ebster previously worked as a pizza delivery driver and janitor. With his new contract at Hero MotoSports, he can now fully focus on racing.
His statement:
“I’m excited to leave my ‘old life’ as an amateur rider behind and I’m ready to show the big boys at Dakar that I’ve got something to say.”
🔜 Looking Ahead
Ebster will make his debut for Hero MotoSports at the South African Safari Rally, the third round of the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship. With his determination and talent, he’s ready to establish himself among the world’s elite.
Tobias Ebster embodies the dream of many motorsport enthusiasts: rising from amateur to factory rider through hard work, passion, and perseverance. His journey proves that with grit and talent, anything is possible.
The entire Roadbook2Rally team wishes Tobias Ebster great success with Team Hero MotoSports!
🏁 Career Overview Sebastian Bühler, Germany’s only top-level factory motorcycle rider, has surprisingly announced his retirement from professional rally racing. His departure marks the end of a remarkable career that led him from the dusty trails of Portugal to the most demanding stages of the Dakar Rally.
Born on October 13, 1994, in Germany, Bühler moved to Portugal with his parents as an infant. There, he developed a passion for motorsport early on and began racing at the age of 13. He started his career in national off-road competitions before entering the international rally scene in 2019, where he quickly emerged as a promising talent.
🏆 Major Achievements
Dakar Debut 2019: Finished as the third-best rookie in his first Dakar Rally.
FIM Bajas World Cup 2020: Won the title during a season shaped by the pandemic.
Baja Portalegre 500: Claimed victory three years in a row (2018–2020) at this prestigious event.
Dakar 2021: Achieved his best overall result with 14th place.
Rallye Portugal 2024: Secured his first stage win in the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC).
Despite injuries and setbacks—including running out of fuel during Dakar 2023—Bühler consistently demonstrated resilience and always came back stronger.
🛑 Retirement and Statement On May 2, 2025, Sebastian Bühler officially announced his retirement from active competition. In his statement, he emphasized:
“After many years in rally racing, I have decided to start a new chapter. I am grateful for the experiences I’ve had and for the support from my team and fans.”
He specifically thanked Hero MotoSports, his longtime team, for the shared journey and the successes they achieved together.
🌍 A Rider Between Two Cultures Although born in Germany, Bühler spent most of his life in Portugal and felt connected to both cultures. This unique background shaped not only his personality but also his riding style and approach to the sport.
🔚 Conclusion Sebastian Bühler leaves behind an impressive legacy in rally racing and serves as an inspiration to many young riders. His retirement marks the end of a significant chapter, but his impact on the off-road racing world will endure.
With Bühler stepping down, an exciting question arises: Who will take his place on the Hero factory team? In recent months, several young talents—such as Bradley Cox, Tobias Ebster, and Michael Docherty—have showcased their skills and positioned themselves as strong candidates for a factory ride. With the South African Safari Rally, the next round of the World Rally-Raid Championship, just around the corner, we might see new factory riders lining up at the start line very soon.
You’ve scouted an amazing tour, saved a GPX track, and now you want to turn it into a clear, structured roadbook – fast and easy?
Welcome to Seekers – the app that makes exactly that possible. And so much more.
With the Seekers app, you can take your offroad or motorcycle tours to the next level. What used to require hours of fiddling with Word or Excel now works with just a few clicks:
Upload your track, create your roadbook, start your adventure.
From Idea to App
This app was born out of a very practical problem: How do you actually train for roadbook navigation?
There are barely any ready-made roadbooks available – and creating one even just for training takes many hours. Including the time spent scouting the route in advance. And if you then follow your own roadbook, you already know the track – not exactly ideal for realistic training.
This is exactly where Seekers comes in – and solves the problem.
What the App Can Do (And What You’ll Never Want to Miss Again)
GPX in – roadbook out: The app automatically generates a structured roadbook from your track.
Easy editing: Add text, icons, images, and waypoints – intuitively via the app or (coming soon) on desktop.
Built for teams: Share roadbooks with friends, riding groups, or rally training partners. Ride as a group and analyze your results right away. Who found all waypoints? Who took shortcuts?
Offline-ready & robust: Everything you need, even without an internet connection.
Helpful features galore: Elevation profiles, odometer, POIs, export function – it’s all there.
The goal: Everyone should be able to build their own roadbook adventures – just the way they like.
More Than Just Navigation
Seekers is not your typical navigation tool. It doesn’t guide you to the fastest route – but to the most exciting one.
This app is made for explorers, tinkerers, and wanderers. For people who don’t just want to go from A to B – but want to experience Z along the way.
Especially handy: Different difficulty levels make it easy to get started with roadbooks. Depending on your level, you’ll get more or less navigation support – perfect to grow your confidence step by step.
New: Roadbook Training by Bike or E-Bike
Roadbook training isn’t just for horsepower lovers! With Seekers, you can also use roadbooks on your bicycle or e-bike – perfect for your next stamina and navigation training session.
Combine fitness with riding technique and sharpen your sense of direction – no engine needed, but with maximum training impact.
A Tool by Riders, for Riders
What stands out with Seekers right away: the team listens.
Feedback from the community flows directly into the app’s development. The app is alive – and grows with its users.
What’s Next?
The roadmap looks promising: even more customization options, community features, maybe even auto-generated roadbooks from satellite images?
One thing is certain: Seekers won’t stop evolving.
👉 Conclusion:
The Seekers app is the perfect companion for anyone who wants to experience their tours – not just ride them. Whether alone, with a group, on two wheels with or without a motor – Seekers guarantees your next adventure will be unforgettable.
And the best part: Use code ROADBOOK2RALLY to get 10% off your premium membership!
Preparing for a rally requires much more than just driving in a rally format — especially since this isn’t regularly feasible for many riders due to logistical and financial limitations. A great alternative lies in enduro and cross-country races, which offer numerous advantages for aspiring rally riders.
Structured Preparation and Increased Motivation
Fixed race dates create a clear commitment and provide a tangible goal to work toward. This structure fosters ambition and acts as a strong incentive for consistent physical and mental training. The prospect of upcoming races boosts motivation to train regularly and improve personal performance.
Improved Riding Skills and Competitive Experience
Enduro races challenge riders with diverse and demanding terrain. These experiences make it possible to continuously refine riding techniques and adapt to different situations. Riders also get used to the pressure and dynamics of competition — an invaluable experience for future rally events.
Community and Networking
Taking part in these races offers the opportunity to meet like-minded people and become part of an engaged riding community. Interacting with other riders can provide valuable tips and new perspectives that help foster personal growth and skill development.
Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility
Compared to full rally events, enduro and cross-country races are often significantly more affordable. They’re also held more frequently and are accessible in various regions, making them a practical option for regular training.
Example: Offroad Scramble in Northern Germany
A great example of such a race series is the Offroad Scramble in northern Germany. This series is particularly suited for beginners and offers different classes based on experience and age. The races last for two hours, with the rider completing the most laps declared the winner. The tracks are designed to be rideable for everyone, and more difficult obstacles can be bypassed if needed.
Case Study: Mike Wiedemann
A great example of how enduro racing can prepare riders for larger rallies is German rider Mike Wiedemann. He began his career by winning national enduro titles and gained experience at events like the International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) and the Enduropale du Touquet. These experiences helped him build his rally skillset and eventually led to successful entries in international rally events. As part of his regular training, Wiedemann competes in the German Cross Country Series (GCC) in different classes and on various motorcycles
Conclusion
Enduro and cross-country races offer a well-rounded training ground for future rally participants. They support not only physical and technical preparation, but also develop the mental toughness and strategic thinking necessary for rally success.
Offroad Scramble (Steinitz 2025) Bild /picture by Stephie_Pix
