Mark Styron
6 min.
The water stretches before you like a liquid gateway to adventure, mountain runoff turning that simple stream crossing into nature's ultimate test of rider and machine. Your heart rate spikes as you try to read the water's secrets – depth, current, hidden obstacles. This is where adventure riding gets real, where the line between epic story and expensive mistake is often measured in inches of water depth.
Reading the Waters: Nature's Chess Game
The art of water crossings begins long before your tires get wet. That glassy surface is both beautiful and deceptive, hiding a world of challenges beneath. But the water tells its stories if you know how to read them.
Standing at the edge of your first serious crossing, here's what you're looking for:
The surface ripples are your first storytellers. Smooth water usually means deeper water, while riffles and breaks often indicate rocks or shallower sections. That glassy pool that looks so inviting? It's probably the deepest part. Those subtle variations in water color? They're painting you a depth map if you know how to read it.
The Dark Art of Depth Reading
Forget those old tales about using a stick to check depth – by the time you're halfway across, that measurement is ancient history. Instead, look for these natural indicators:
- Crystal clear water appears deceptively shallow
- Dark bottom = usually deeper than it looks
- Light bottom = typically shallower, but verify
- Moving vegetation shows current strength
- Bank wear indicates flood patterns
Pro Tip: Those motorcycle tracks leading into the water? They don't tell you if they came out the other side. Always read the exit before committing to the entry.
The Right Tool for the Job: Water-Ready Weapons
Before you play in nature's swimming pool, let's talk about preparing your machine for aquatic adventures.
Waterproofing Your Warrior
The difference between a water crossing story and a water damage story often comes down to preparation. Here's your essential kit:
Scotts Performance Sub Breather Kit ($189)
- Extends all breathers above water line
- Complete installation kit
- Peace of mind in deep water
UniFilter Waterproof Pre-Filter Kit ($79)
- Additional air filter protection
- Water-resistant foam design
- Easy trailside service
Recovery Ready
Because sometimes Plan A becomes Plan Swim:
Viking Solutions Recovery Kit ($249)
- 30-foot synthetic rope
- Waterproof storage bag
- Quick-connect hooks
- Complete pulley system
The Crossing: Art Meets Science
Here's where theory meets practice, where all that preparation pays off. The perfect water crossing is a blend of momentum, line choice, and nerve control.
The Perfect Cross: A Symphony in Three Acts
The Approach:
Stand up on those pegs like you're trying to keep your boots dry (because you are). Your position here is crucial – weight back, eyes forward, arms loose. Think "regal posture" not "terror crouch."
The Entry:
Choose your line and commit. Second-guessing halfway through is how bikes become submarines. Maintain steady, smooth throttle – enough to create a small bow wave that pushes water away from your air intake.
The Exit:
Keep that momentum until your back wheel is completely clear. Many a successful crossing has turned into a recovery operation in the last few feet. Once clear, resist the urge to immediately check your boots – keep riding until you're well clear of the water.
When Things Go Sideways (Or Underwater)
Let's talk about what happens when your water crossing becomes an impromptu submarine mission. First rule: Don't panic. Second rule: Act fast.
If your bike takes a drink:
- Don't try to restart it immediately
- Get it out of the water first
- Remove spark plugs
- Clear cylinders of water
- Check air box and oil
Essential Recovery Tool: Motion Pro Water Removal Tool ($39)
- Removes water from cylinders
- Compact design
- Essential for deep crossings
The Wisdom of Water
After countless crossings (and yes, a few unplanned swimming lessons), here's what really matters:
- No crossing is worth your life
- Water depth can change hourly
- Current strength trumps depth
- Always check the exit first
- When in doubt, scout a different route
Essential Investment in Staying Dry
Your water crossing kit should include:
- Breather Extensions: $200-300
- Recovery Gear: $250-350
- Emergency Tools: $100-150
- Waterproof Bags: $200-300
The Bottom Line
Water crossings are where adventure riding transcends simple transportation and becomes an art form. They're also where the line between success and swimming is razor-thin. With the right preparation, proper technique, and a healthy respect for the water, you can turn these liquid obstacles into highlights of your adventure.
Remember: The best water crossing stories are the ones where both bike and rider stay running. There's no shame in turning around – the adventure will still be there when you find a better crossing.
