CO Backcountry Discovery Route Facebook Group (Rant)

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1Louder

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Chris
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1. I love the BDR routes.
2. I think/hope the majority involved with the BDR organization support access for all vehicles and not just motorcycles
3. I will continue to buy the maps if I use the trails.

Now the rant -
Some Overland/4x4 folks posted on the CO BDR Facebook group and the moderators didn't like it. While the tone was civil it was also ridiculous. We were told these routes were designed for motorcycles only! 4x4's and side by sides will destroy them. They don't want any discussion from anyone who is not on a motorcycle. If 4x4 discussion was allowed they would "take over" in a day. The moderators deleted the thread and then posted the attached message/image.

Since it is a Facebook group the moderators have every right to determine who can participate, what threads may remain, and what threads they want to delete. I have screenshots of the discussion prior to deletion.

These routes were designed by folks on dual-sport bikes. They are not only for motorcycles. I have done 3 complete routes and sections of others including parts of the CO BDR. ALL are on PUBLIC land, trails and forest roads. In many instances they are on wide graded dirt roads. There are homes on them, private land, cars, mountain bikes... you get the idea.

ALL that use these routes help with positive economic impact to the small communities on the routes. (Part of the BDR Mission statement)

The only thing being discussed was conditions of the route. That's it. This information is pertinent to all but I guess meant nothing when it came from someone in a vehicle (Not me)

"4x4's" reporting information could be useful to all but they don't want that in their Facebook groups.

As mentioned they can do what they want with their groups. Seems like they have no issue with participating in the Overland Expo events, NWOR, and others. You know those events that are dominated by 4x4's.

I still say enjoy the routes, be respectful/tread lightly as usual. I would encourage people to buy the maps as a small way to support those who take the time to design the routes. Don't bother participating in the Facebook groups if you are not on a motorcycle. Too bad. It is dumb and short sighted.

I am sure there are many OB members who do both vehicle based travel and motorcycle.

CO BDR Section 1 is easy and scenic. I did it with a friend and we were both towing trailers.

Ok I will shut up. None of this has anything to do with Overland Bound. It is a warning for those who participate or want to participate in the BDR Facebook groups. Rant over, be safe.

Colorado_Backcountry_Discovery_Route__COBDR_.png
 
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Downs

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The BDRs are setup for adventure motorcycles, but I've never seen Butler Maps say that 4x4s aren't allowed. Big ol pigs of motorcycles (I own one lol). IF it's a good road for a GS1200 or the like it'll work in most cases for a truck or Jeep as well.

I can see the reluctance to let "outsiders" in on the deal. I mean look at how many trails and whatnot get closed down just due to being over-trafficked.
 

1Louder

Rank VI
Launch Member

Member II

4,187
AZ
First Name
Chris
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Well I wasn’t the only person irked by what the BDR organization was doing. Many of my feelings and thoughts are mutual in the open letter written to the Board of Directors. Really the same feelings I conveyed in my civil posts in the CO BDR Facebook group which were deleted.

Bad apples can’t be prevented. Only ignored and tossed aside.

I am glad Dean took the time to write his letter and the board was willing to speak with him. I probably won’t rejoin any of the Facebook groups though. I will however continue to buy the maps and respect the public roads and trails.

Open Letter:

BDR BOD Response