To the OP, not much more I can add to what has been discussed but I'll add my 2p worth. I've done 6 trips up to Alaska and ridden teh Dalton on each of those trips on my 1200GSA. I'll be taking another group of brits up there again in July this year but this time on my new S10 so will see if it copes half as well as my old GSA.
Anyway, here are a few tips for the Dalton:
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- Ride with minimum gear on the bike. I've seen too many people struggling like hell in the gravel and wet mud on grossly overloaded bikes when it's completely avoidable. Take only what you need and leave the rest in Fairbanks.
Camping is hell because of the bastard mossies, so stay in a cabin in Wiseman which is 15 miles north of and half the price of Coldfoot. We run from Wiseman up to Prudhoe and back in a day as there is nothing really to see at the top in my opinion.
Get to Prudhoe before 12 and eat at the Aurora. 5 star food for cafe money.
Fuel in Prudhoe is CC only
Get a big mossie net to go over your helmet for when you stop as the mossies are armed and attack before you stop
The weather can change in a heartbeat so be prepared. Also be prepared to abandon if it gets too bad because it's not worth killing yourself for. 2016 was wall to wall sunshine and the dust was the worst bit. 2013 was like a mud bath with snow on the Atigun in July!
Run with K60's or E07's. I've seen guys on tourances etc and no problem in teh dry but hell on earth in the wet.
The road has improved dramatically over the last few years but can still catch you out so always be on guard and keep speed sensible. The truckers are good guys and will give you room if they see you doing the same. I've spoken to a few of them over the years and what scares them is they aren't sure what bikes are going to do especially in the wet so give them space and let them do their thing.
Gas at Yukon crossing, Coldfoot and Prudhoe.
Make sure you stop at the Hot Spot Cafe about 5 mies north of Yukon Crossing for a great milkshake and huge burger.
When you come off the Dalton, clean your lights and tags as the cops will pull you and fine you.
Dan and Shaun at Adventure Cycle Works will service, change tyres etc but do not go on a Harleyas you will get dogs abuse and Dan will probably shoot it.
In Fairbanks, stay at the University as it's a great place and cheap. You can leave your excess kit there and only take what you need on the Dalton. Sams Sourdough cafe does a great breakfast and there is a great pizza place and bar in the little plaza by the main traffic lights.
If you like a clean bike.....you are going to have to change your attitude!
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The main thing is on the Dalton and up in Alaska is don't overthink it and enjoy the trip as it's one you'll never forget.
I know the pic is a GSA but the S10 will be sat there in July
