For adventure motorcyclists, the allure of the American West is often tempered by the logistical hurdles of crossing an ocean and navigating thousands of miles of rugged, unpaved terrain. KLIM, a global leader in technical riding gear, is removing those barriers by offering a European rider the chance to join an elite expedition through one of North America’s most challenging landscapes.
The company has announced a search for one European participant to join a six-member KLIM team for the inaugural expedition along the Montana Backcountry Discovery Route (Montana BDR). This initiative represents a significant bridge between the European adventure riding community and the expansive wilderness of the Rocky Mountains, providing a fully supported experience for a rider capable of handling the demands of the backcountry.
The Montana BDR is part of a broader network of iconic, state-to-state off-road routes developed by Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) over the last decade. These routes are designed as “bucket-list” experiences, prioritizing untouched wilderness and far-flung geography over paved roads. By opening this opportunity to a European rider, KLIM is expanding the reach of the BDR mission to a global audience of off-road enthusiasts.
The Scope of the Montana BDR Expedition
The expedition is designed as an intensive immersion into the Rocky Mountains. The journey consists of eight days of riding on the Montana BDR, with the route extending beyond U.S. Borders to cross into Canada. This international crossing adds a layer of complexity and prestige to the trip, requiring participants to navigate diverse terrains and regulatory environments.
Unlike curated touring trips, the Montana BDR focuses on the “authentic backcountry experience.” This means riders must be prepared for the realities of wilderness travel, which includes occasional overnight stays in tents and the necessity of managing environmental risks. The route is specifically tailored for those who are confident riding on loose terrain, where technical skill and endurance are paramount.
The expedition serves not only as a ride but as a field test for the environments KLIM gear is designed to withstand. By placing a rider in the heart of the Montana wilderness, the brand emphasizes its commitment to “forging new roads” and providing protection in the most extreme conditions.
Watch the KLIM Montana BDR Expedition announcement on Instagram
All-Inclusive Support for the Modern Adventurer
To ensure that the only barrier to entry is the rider’s skill and spirit, KLIM has structured the opportunity as a fully supported adventure. The prize package is comprehensive, covering all logistical and equipment needs from the moment the participant leaves Europe until the final mile of the route.
The inclusion package features:
- International Travel: Round-trip airfare from Europe to the United States.
- Professional Gear: A complete set of KLIM motorcycle gear, ensuring the rider has the technical protection required for the Rocky Mountains.
- Logistics and Sustenance: Free lodging and meals throughout the duration of the trip.
- Expert Guidance: Group arrival and departure coordinated by a European KLIM representative.
This level of support is designed to eliminate the financial and planning burdens typically associated with international off-road expeditions, allowing the participant to focus entirely on the technical challenges of the Montana BDR.
Eligibility and the Demands of the Backcountry
Given the rigorous nature of the Montana BDR, the entry requirements are strict. KLIM is not seeking casual tourists, but rather experienced adventure or off-road riders who possess the technical proficiency to handle loose, unpredictable terrain safely.
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible:
- Licensure and Experience: Must hold a valid motorcycle license and demonstrate confidence in off-road environments.
- Documentation: A valid passport and the necessary entry requirements for both the United States and Canada are mandatory.
- Communication: Sufficient English proficiency is required to communicate independently within the group and while navigating the host countries.
- Resilience: Participants must be willing to camp in the wilderness and manage typical backcountry risks, including the requirement to carry bear spray for safety in predator-dense areas.
These requirements underscore the physical and mental toughness required for the journey. The Montana wilderness is unforgiving, and the ability to operate independently within a team structure is critical for the success and safety of the expedition.
Engineering Protection: The Role of KLIM Gear
The expedition is a natural extension of KLIM’s business identity as a global leader in the design and manufacture of technical riding gear. The company specializes in motorsports apparel for both snowmobile and motorcycle riders, focusing on advanced materials that provide maximum airflow, protection, and comfort.
For a route like the Montana BDR, the gear is more than just apparel; it is essential safety equipment. The environment demands a balance of ventilation for strenuous riding and ruggedness to withstand falls on loose terrain. KLIM’s current product lines, such as the Induction and Avalon jackets, utilize high-flow ventilation and Karbonite™ Mesh to address the needs of serious summer riding, while their Rogue™ Armor is engineered for those who prioritize freedom of movement without sacrificing protection.
By equipping the European winner with a full suite of gear, KLIM demonstrates the practical application of its technical specifications in one of the world’s most demanding riding environments. The synergy between the gear’s performance and the route’s difficulty serves as a real-world validation of the brand’s engineering standards.
Interested riders can find more information and submit their applications through the official KLIM Montana BDR Contest page.
The selection process will determine who joins the six-member team for this inaugural journey. Further updates regarding the selected participant and the expedition’s progress are expected as the start date approaches.
Do you have the experience to tackle the Rocky Mountains? Share your thoughts on the Montana BDR in the comments below.