Recovery

[Wobbler]

Ok, I know what your going to say. Don't go riding off road alone, but sometimes you have to do what you got to do. Or I should say want to do. So, does anyone have an opinion on winch vs. mechanical leverage ie: 5:1 rope and pulley for recovery. What is the consensus of the group? I went riding last week and got in a jam. Using the proper technique for lifting, I spent way to long trying to get my bike up and out of the woods. The position was difficult to say the least. Been looking at Warn XT17 and some MSR SYSTEMS.
Other than my shifter, and a few abrasions to the engine guards, luck.

 

[iClint]

I ride off road alone. I don't see anything wrong with it if you take a few precautions, and weigh up and accept the risks.

I have the "Best rest products" 5:1 rope'n pulley kit it takes up very little space, is very light and comes in its own sturdy bag. There are only 2 knots you need to learn which are very easy and if you can't remember them there is a laminated card with instructions in the kit. If you have another vehicle to help it can be used to tow the bike as well.

One tip I have for if you have a drop and need to pick up the bike is, relax. Take off your gear, have a sip of water, think about how you are going to pick the bike up and when your ready then pick the bike up. Makes a huge difference.

I bought the kit specifically for helping me pick the bike up (I have a disability), and/or getting it back on the track. you do have to consider how much pulling power you have, I'm 120kg so if i put all my body weight into it i could pull 5:1 - 600kg. If you are only 70kg you will be able to pull 350kg which is still some what more than the bike's weight.

 

[Checkswrecks]

Rope and pulleys or ratchet strap.
Winches don't work well when the battery goes flat or if the bike is in water.

 

[itlives]

Get one of these if you want to use a winch. First time I used it it started a 5.0 L Mustang. Very handy. Save your bikes' battery for cranking.
http://www.amazon.com/Antigravity-Batteries-Micro-Start-Starter-Personal/dp/B00FDYYK4A