Embarking on the Simpson Desert: My Epic Unassisted Ride

Embarking on the Simpson Desert: My Epic Unassisted Ride

Adventure enthusiasts, buckle up—Allister Philipp, the man behind Adventure Riders Brisbane Group and a hard-core adventure rider from Brisbane, has just ticked off an extraordinary bucket-list item: an unassisted crossing of the Simpson Desert. This trip was 7 years in the making due to a few setbacks such as covid, rain events, through to the recent flooding.  But he finally got there and it surely was worth the wait!  Here’s a thrilling snapshot of his journey on the KTM950 Super Enduro R, through the heart of Australia’s rugged outback.

The Details:

• Rider: Allister Philipp—an exceptionally skilled adventurer, leading the Adventure Riders Brisbane Group.
• Bike: KTM950 Super Enduro R
• Route: East to West Simpson Desert Crossing
• Duration: 9 Days
• Gear: Ricondi Ripstop Adventure Lite Jacket and Matching Zip-in Pants

 

The Journey Begins:

I kicked off this epic ride from Brisbane on a Saturday, making it to Charleville that night. Over the next two days, I rode to Birdsville and then ventured into the desert. Eyre Creek was knee-deep, which added a significant challenge right from the start. I was loaded up with 57 litres of fuel, 10 litres of water, and 5 days of provisions, along with essential camping gear—tent, bedding, and cooking equipment.

 

Desert Adventure Highlights:

On my second day in the Simpson Desert, I faced a gruelling 8-hour ride, covering just 100 kilometres while crossing Popple Corner and multiple borders (QLD, NT, SA). The night brought wild experiences with foxes visiting my camp and a dingo sighting just before dark.

Day three provided a much-needed break at Dalhousie Springs, where a swim in the 37°C waters was sensational and exactly what I needed. I then continued on the Road of Bones to Mt Dare, where I rested and refuelled. Over the course of 1,100 sand dunes and 580 kilometres of desolate terrain, I used up 44 litres of fuel. Completing this unassisted was made all the more impressive by the challenging conditions and lack of support vehicles.

 

 

Challenges and Triumphs:

The next leg took me north 400 kilometres to Alice Springs via the Finke Service Road. The road conditions were rough with enormous corrugations, and the desert’s sandy trails, chewed up by tourist traffic, added another layer of difficulty. However, my Ricondi Adventure gear proved its worth. The gear’s excellent airflow features and maximum ventilation helped me manage the intense desert heat effectively. The amount of vents throughout the jacket and pants was excellent.

 

 

Oh no:

A mechanical issue hit me upon exiting Finke—an oil tank bolt snapped and an aluminium bracket broke. I performed quick bush repairs and managed to limp 300 kilometres to Alice Springs. Local assistance there helped me get back on track. That night, I camped at Ross River Station, which turned out to be one of the most stunning campsites I’ve ever stayed at.

 

 

The Final Stretch:

The journey continued with the Bins Track to Plenty Highway and across the Queensland border, dodging wildlife including kangaroos, pigs, and emus. By nightfall, I reached Tobermorey Station Roadhouse & Caravan Park. The next day, I pushed through rain and emus to Longreach and then Roma. The frosty temperatures kicked in, but my Ricondi gear proved invaluable, keeping me warm and comfortable despite the extreme cold and unpredictable weather.

 

 

Back to Brisbane:

The final leg from Roma to Brisbane was a whirlwind. I completed the 500-kilometer stretch in just 5 hours, leaving my wife Renee amazed that I was back home already. With an average of 500-700 kilometres per day and challenging conditions throughout, this desert adventure was nothing short of legendary.

 

 

Gear Review:

The Ricondi Ripstop Adventure Lite gear was outstanding. With all the top-quality CE armour and excellent breathability, it kept me cool in the desert, warm when the temperature dropped and dry in the rain. The gear’s waterproof, lightweight design was perfect for varying conditions, and the adjustable features ensured a comfortable ride. Such great value for money too. I’m giving it a 10/10 and can’t wait to use it on future adventures.

 

For those eager to dive into thrilling Australian adventures like this and more, connect with Allister and the Adventure Riders Brisbane Group. Stay tuned and join in on the next adventure!

The Ricondi Gear as worn by Allister:  Check it out in store now or online here: www.raceandroad.com.au/ricondi-mens-adventure-lite/