Mongolia Overland
Rank III
Explorer I
Thank Bjoern, covid indeed seems to have had quite the impact. No tourists, therefore less overlanding, which in turn has an impact on the whole suplly and service chain. Even now, end of May, when most Mongolians haven't started planning yet, lots of equipment is out of stock and garages with expertise are few.
However, some higher and mid quality places survived. Maybe 5 or so. Sufficient to get most things done.
If you are in the running to build a rig, the time is now in Mongolia. Stock of the previous years is still around which were bought at a considerably lower price compared to the new stock coming in. Can be hundreds of Euro/Dollar dif. I bought a roofrack for 600(Patriot (AUS)), the same model, but yet to be imported will be almost 900. Rhino are sold out, ARB is close to 1500-2000.
Unfortunately i am on a tight schedule to get the rig ready before the 10th of June for my 1st 6 week trip.
Tires are my biggest worry. The rain and snow made horrible mud tracks where my current AT won't be able to get through. So I might go for Mud tires. Maxxis as they are the only one carrying my size. Then again, there will probably also be quite a bit of asphalt, desert and gravel to be done. Lots of airing down i guess. I think I'll go for the safety of the mud tire and leave the AT home for now. /rant
