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Finding Accommodation in the Himalayas – Rangjon Resort

Finding Accommodation in the Himalayas – Rangjon Resort

The girl on a bike (1)

The Rangjon Resort at Pangong Lake… What an incredible place to have stumbled across during my Himalayan adventure!

With limited Internet access and some very rare communities that aren’t necessarily online yet, finding accommodation around the Himalayas can be challenging. We had some very basic homestays which were rustic but thoroughly enjoyable. So I wanted to give a shout out to my favourite overnight on our Himalayan adventure – Rangjon Resort at Pangong Lake. Located on the shores of the turquoise blue Pangong Lake right by the Chinese border, it’s a tranquil spot.

We had our own private cabin with a super comfortable squidgy bed that boasted clean fresh white linen specially laundered for the next guest. You’ll be amazed that most of the other places we stayed you are just using sheets (probably used by hundreds of others before you) at Rangjon Resort there was a hot shower that came out of an actual showerhead on the wall! And an incredible skylight window above the bed to enjoy the starry sky and upon arrival we had the most exquisite cuisine we tasted so far in India.

The girl on a bike (2)
The girl on a bike Rangjon Resort
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The team spoke great English and it was an incredibly friendly welcome. When I told them that I had been cold sleeping almost every night, they quickly went away and appeared back with three cosy hot water bottles. The little extra touches that just make for an even better experience is something Rangjon Resort definitely does.

If you’re planning a road trip around the Himalayas, I would highly recommend Rangjon Resort, it would be ideal for couples, families all the way through to large groups of motorcycles. It’s even possible to have dinner and a bonfire on the lakeside if you wanted to

www.rangjonresort.com

Nestled in the breathtakingly serene landscape of Merak Pangong in Leh Ladakh, Rangjon Resort stands as a haven for those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature’s splendor. The resort, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, offers an unobstructed view of the famous Pangong Lake, whose shimmering blue waters create a mesmerizing contrast against the rugged mountain backdrop. Designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, Rangjon Resort provides guests with an immersive experience of Ladakh’s unique culture and natural beauty.

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The accommodations at Rangjon Resort are crafted to ensure both comfort and a touch of rustic charm, reflecting the traditional Ladakhi architectural style. Each room is equipped with modern amenities while maintaining an authentic feel, featuring local décor elements and sustainable materials. Guests can unwind in cozy, well-appointed rooms that offer panoramic views of the lake and mountains, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort’s commitment to eco-friendly practices ensures a minimal environmental footprint, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers.

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Beyond its stunning location and comfortable accommodations, Rangjon Resort offers a variety of activities and experiences to enrich your stay. Adventure enthusiasts can explore the rugged terrain with guided trekking and mountain biking tours, while those seeking a more leisurely pace can enjoy bird watching or a peaceful stroll along the lakeshore. The resort also provides opportunities to engage with the local culture through traditional music and dance performances, as well as visits to nearby villages and monasteries. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and sustainable luxury, Rangjon Resort promises an unforgettable escape in the heart of Ladakh.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, InstagramFacebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Adventures Features Latest content Tips

What kit to wear motorcycle adventure through the Himalayas, India

What kit to wear motorcycle adventure through the Himalayas, India

The girl on a bike adventure riding kit

Adventure motorcycle riding can result in us facing a huge array of weather conditions, and so getting the right kit is critical to our safety and enjoyment. I recently rode motorcycles in the Himalayas and wanted to share the kit I used to help you plan the right kit, be prepared and ready for the unexpected when riding adv, especially in the Himalayan mountains in India.

Adventure motorcycle conditions mean you are battling extreme temperature changes, high altitude, rocky and unpredictable terrain, pedestrians, landslides, snow storms and not to mention navigating your way through and around the suicidal chicken buses on some of the most dangerous roads in the world.

In this episode of my multi part Himalayan motorcycle adventure tour I will run you through the most important pieces of kit you should be thinking about taking when setting off on your next adventure.

The girl on a bike Himalayan motorcycle
The girl on a bike Himalayan motorcycle tour 1

Key areas of focus when choosing your adventure riding kit:

  • Base layers (Revolution Race, Alpinestars, Dainese)
  • What materials to wear and what to avoid – spoiler alert… cotton should be BANNED!!
  • How to layer correctly for warmth and coolness (Mosko Ectotherm heated jacket)
  • Jacket and trouser options (Mosko Moto Basilisk, Mosko Moto Woodsman)
  • Type of boots & socks (Oxford Products)
  • Glove selection (Furygan, Alpinestars)
  • Helmet style (Hebo Factory, Scott Goggles)
  • Communications/Intercoms (Cardo Systems – 15% off Cardo https://cardosystems.rfrl.co/5gxzq and use code “TGOAB“)
  • Luggage options (Royal Enfield, Mosko Moto)

I hope this video helps you work out what kit to wear motorcycle adventure riding in the Himalayas. Please let me know any questions in the YouTube comments or message me on Facebook/ Instagram.

The girl on a bike What kit to wear motorcycle

Remember, kit is very personal so you need to find what suits your body, your bike, your riding and your budget! You’ll notice that my kit includes a variety of brands, that is because my personal preference doesn’t mean one brand meets all my needs. I hope my honesty helps you stay warm, dry and with a smile as your explore the world! Watch the what kit to wear adventure riding in the Himalayas below:

How to survive in the brutal Himalayas

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Threads, WhatsApp, InstagramFacebook, Tiktok and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Latest content Tips

Revving Up Your Social Circle: A Guide to Making New Motorcycle Friends

Revving Up Your Social Circle: A Guide to Making New Motorcycle Friends

Having travelled to over 15 countries on group ride adventure motorcycle riding holidays in this video I’ll share why I highly recommend looking into pre-organized group holidays and how it can be the key to making new motorcycle friends. I discuss the pros and cons of:

  • Time
  • Avoiding admin
  • Meeting new people
  • Less stress
  • Economies of scale
  • You don’t need your own motorcycle
  • Organised trips are tried & tested

Let me know in the videos comments what your experience has been, good or bad. Where have you been? Any recommendations or things to avoid? How you find motorcycle friends, or how to be be more social.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on InstagramFacebookLinkedIn and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Features Latest content Tips

Top tips for riding motorcycles in Iceland

Top tips for riding motorcycles in Iceland

Following an epic 6-day motorcycle adventure through Iceland with RideWithLocals I have compiled a list of top tips and key things to know before you head out on your own Icelandic adventure. In the video below I will explain and discuss the following:

  1. What to wear on your feet
  2. How to safely cross rivers
  3. Water quality
  4. Weather
  5. Tyres
  6. Accommodation
  7. Risk factors
  8. Icelandic roads, tracks & terrain
  9. Safety and security
  10. Animals
  11. Culture
  12. Food

Watch the full video here

I filmed this while on a motorcycle trip in Iceland, my number one motorcycle riding country in the world. I did this trip with RideWithLocals – the only local Icelandic run off road motorcycle company and based just a 2h 45min flight from the UK.

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if you want to see more about the overall trip please see my other videos from this series here:

Part 1: Off-road motorcycling through the heart of ICELAND

Enduro bike off road review on KTM EXC-F 350 in Iceland:

Part 2: The volcano erupts daily and you can ride motorcycles right there – EPIC!

For a fully-inclusive motorcycle Iceland trip on KTM EXCFs with a support vehicle, fuel, meals, snacks, mountain huts, hotels, beer and all the local knowledge from the Vikings, expect to pay around €4400 per person.

For more information: www.ridewithlocals.is

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on InstagramFacebookTikTokLinkedInYouTube, Whatsapp and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Features Latest content Tips

Easy tips to help improve your motorcycle riding

Easy tips to help improve your motorcycle riding

Easy tips and exercises to help improve your motorcycle riding. From body position, braking, clutch control and ways to pick up your bike.

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Motorcycle riding takes skill, practice and education, my biggest tip and ultimately the best way to improve your motorcycle riding is to go back to basics and work on the foundations. Whether you have just started riding or are an experienced rider, practicing the foundational skills is something that you can never do too much.

In the video below I will show you a series of exercises and talk you through some tips that you can use to help improve your motorcycle riding skills.

Tips to improve your motorcycle riding skill

I also had the opportunity to ride with John McAvoy of Fast Bikes, and as John has never ridden off-road before I thought a day at the Triumph Experience Centre would be a great way to test and show these exercises.

In the video above I discuss and provide tips and exercises on:

  • Body position
  • Balance points
  • Engine awareness
  • Braking techniques
  • Maneuvering the bike
  • Cornering
  • Bike pick up techniques

And more

More information on the Triumph Experience Centre: https://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/for-the-ride/experiences

For my thoughts on the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro check out my 1000 Dunas series below where I become the first female to ever finish on a standard adventure bike.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on InstagramFacebookTikTokLinkedInYouTube, Whatsapp and www.thegirlonabike.com.

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Is methane the future power for motorcycles? Goodbye electric 

Is methane the future power for motorcycles? Goodbye electric  

Everyone is talking about electric power being the future mobility solution and after having the chance to drive the world’s first methane powered tractor I can’t help but wonder if there might be another option for the future power of motorcycles.

The Girl on a bike methane motorcycles
The Girl on a bike methane motorcycles
The Girl on a bike methane motorcycles 1

In this video I’ll talk through some of the key technologies, facts and considerations for using methane as a fuel source.

Goodbye electric

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1wb92A5JWU

During my learning experience with New Holland and Michelin it really got me thinking. Could the methane waste from our agricultural industry be a future fuel source? Can we use it for motorcycles, cars and other machinery? Could we be saying goodbye electric? Its an interesting one…

Whilst I was with Michelin I found out some interesting ways to improve your performance and save money on tyres. See the full video here:

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all. 

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com 

Adventures Features Latest content Tips

How to make new motorcycle friends

How to make new motorcycle friends

Discover the joys of group motorcycle adventures and how to make new friends! Learn the benefits of pre-organized rides and tours here.

The girl on a bike Motorcycle friends 2
The girl on a bike Motorcycle friends

Wondering how to make new motorcycle friends? Thinking about going on a group ride? After having been on group adventure motorcycle rides in over 15 countries I thought I would share my thoughts on why I highly recommend looking into pre-organized group rides, and how you can make new motorcycle friends.

In this video, I will also discuss some of the pros and cons such as:

  • Time
  • Admin
  • Experience
  • Legalities
  • Meeting new people
  • Riding different motorcycles

Watch why I love group motorcycle tours and making new friends

If you are not sure where to start but you want to meet new motorcycle friends or try a group adventure tour check out some of the videos from the group tour adventures I have been on and can highly recommend:

Tour1 – The wonders of New Zealand

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J94WFpjBJ9A&t=0s

Tour Enduro Sardegna, Sardinia

Big Little Rides [womens only] – 9 women take on Belize

Toro Trail, Spain – I flipped it

Altitude with Attitude – European Harley Davidson Road Trip

Ride with Locals, Iceland – Offroad experience

Superior Motorcycle Experiences, UK

Novo Adventures, Bolivia – Riding death road

Enduro Dreamland, Ukraine – Snow riding

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on InstagramFacebookTikTokLinkedIn  , Whatsapp and YouTube,and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Adventures Features Latest content Tips

How to protect your bum on a motorcycle to avoid monkey butt

How to protect your bum on a motorcycle – anti monkey butt

Here are my top tips on how to protect your bum to avoid monkey butt on a motorcycle based on my experience from extreme long distance endure desert rally’s

Watch the full video – Why does no one talk about this, how to avoid monkey butt

How to protect your bum and prevent monkey butt on a motorcycle is a big topic but one that no one seems to talk about. In this video I am going to share my top tips built from my experience of doing extreme long distance endurance desert rally’s and how to keep your bum and genitals happy on a motorcycle. These tips vary in their cost, but for the ultimate effect I recommend all 5.

Top tips for bum comfort and monkey butt prevention on a motorcycle:

  1. Custom motorcycle seat for improved comfort – my seat is by Caulfield Leather https://www.caulfieldleather.co.uk/ it is worth noting they will do any motorcycle seat from street bike cruiser, adv, you send them your seat and they will re foam, gel and upholster it
  2. Anti chaff cream. Designed to reduce friction, monkey butt and also help control bacteria that is apparent with high levels of sweat you would anticipate when doing extreme sports – https://amzn.to/3EN6rjJ this is the same cream used by professional cycling athletes
  3. If you get sore both on your bum and your lips, use Germolene. My top rally hack tip is Germolene on your lips instead of any kind of lip solve. It is an antiseptic and antibiotic cream that helps cracked skin, so it is amazing for your lips or sore bum – https://amzn.to/3PwowaK
  4. Sweat wicking seamless cycling impact shorts. The key is to make sure they are a seamless technical layer, you do not want to wear cotton on a motorcycle ever, due to its ability to hold and store moisture which will ultimately lead to chafe. Also, the added padding of cycling shorts supports with the fatigue on your saddle
  5. Technical base layers. Depending on the temperature of the riding conditions you are in you want to make sure you are wearing the correct base layers on your skin. These should be sweat wicking and temperature appropriate to your environment. It may seem slightly counter intuitive but having full length base layers even when in a 52-degree desert race will still keep you cooler than having other materials on your skin due to the moisture wicking technology. I do wear my impact shorts underneath my base layers to prevent chafe from the material pattern of the technical layers being on your skin. I am a big fan of the Alpinestars base layers to help with monkey butt
the girl on a bike monkey butt

Hopefully this gives you a few tips to help keep your bottom from becoming a monkey butt and keep you comfortable on longer motorcycle rides, whilst I am talking about this in an intense enduro race environment these tips will still work for your usual everyday touring conditions.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on InstagramFacebookTikTokLinkedIn and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.

Adventures Bikes Latest content Reviews Tips Travel

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Review

Harley-Davidson Road Glide Review

I think it’s safe to say the Road Glide has become my favourite Harley-Davidson.

With the world to explore finding the right touring bike can be a challenge, so in this review video I’ll share my experience riding the Harley-Davidson Road Glide around New Zealand with Tour1. The organised tour took us on several thousand kilometres of road through the wonders of the South Island in both the pouring rain and glorious sunshine.

I’ve ridden many other Harley’s before and have a Street Bob 2015 in my own garage… but I think it’s safe to say the Road Glide, especially in this light popping red paint, has become my favourite Harley-Davidson.

From its poised stance with the shark fairing, to it’s amble power, insanely comfortable seating position, pillion comfort and great touring features, the Road Glide has won me over.

Check out the video below for more details, including hearing the sound of the Milwaukee engine.

This video is part of a multi episode series of my Tour1 New Zealand Harley Road Glide adventure so make sure you check out the other videos in the series:

Part 1: When your breath gets taken away but …  

https://youtu.be/J94WFpjBJ9A

Part 2: Girls on tour… New Zealand and why ..

Part 3: Burt Munro, lake dips, Lindis pass and so much more – th

Why I like group tours: How to make new motorcycle friends

Tips for riding in a group:

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all. 

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com 

Latest content Reviews Tips

Alpinestars Motorcycle Airbag TechAir 5 Review

Alpinestars Motorcycle Airbag TechAir 5 Review

It saved me! Is a motorcycle airbag worth the price tag? Alpinestars TechAir 5 off-road Dakar explained

Safety is a huge factor with extreme desert racing and so I’m a huge believer in the use of airbags. This video I talk through the specifications and my experience with the Alpinestars TechAir 5 off road Dakar approved airbag protection.

It appears like a normal full body armour with elbow, back, shoulder and chest protection but it also has a seamlessly integrated airbag system. It’s a little bulkier than a normal protector but it’s incredibly comfortable – and body saving.

It feels like a normal body armour but with a bit more bulk and is designed for the airbag system to deploy in a crash. The airbag system has intelligent accelerometers and gyroscopes which tell exactly when the rider needs it, which allows it to deploy before you even hit the ground! Thankfully, you’re not going to have an embarrassing curbside inflate as the technology is far more attuned, knowing what’s an actual crash versus a little stumble. The airbag technology is incredible.

This is a compulsory kit for most of the major rallies and it’s already saved many breaks and most probably deaths.

Vanessa Ruck races in the Alpinestars Airbag

More information on: https://www.alpinestars.com/pages/alpinestars-tech-air-autonomous-airbag-systems

The Dakar approved version will be available on the wider mark in early 2024…so stay tuned! But for now they do have street and off road versions of a slightly lower spec available. Check out Alpinestars airvest on their website.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all. 

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on InstagramFacebookTikTokLinkedIn and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com