Course descriptions for our events    Note: this is assuming dry weather conditions.  Inclement weather or fire danger will dictate probably running only B or C courses, so as not to damage trails.  Letter designations are in key with typical AMA enduro class descriptions.

AA: VERY DIFFICULT [extremely advanced] -  sophisticated and complex trails that are only passable by a real dirt bike. Extreme uphills/downhills and trials-like sections, which require lower gearing.  Aggressive knobbies required.

A: DIFFICULT [advanced] - plenty of challenging trail that requires advanced trail techniques.  Aggressive knobbies highly suggested.

B: MODERATE [normal] - moderate or mild trail skills required.  Larger single-cylinder or two-up bikes should easily traverse these  sections.  Generally passable by an advanced Jeep/driver combo.  Regular dualsport tires are acceptable.

C: EASY [very easy] - practically no trail.  Mostly gravel road. Passable by large 2-cylinder bikes, two-up, sidecars or most any 4-wheel drive.  Regular dualsport tires are acceptable.

Here's a helpful check-off list of things to do before showing up for this event: Say to yourself, "Self, remember that the staging area is at the Cedar Creek OHV Staging Area near Lees Camp and the ODF Forestry Center. Mount a rollchart holder on your handlebars. Post your rider number on the front of your bike. Confirm number by clicking on "List Of Entries Thus Far" at top of this page. If you didn't pre-enter, your number will be assigned at event. Bring raingear (This is Oregon, so you never know!). Make sure you have your state's current OHV sticker installed. Pack a good assortment of tools in your fanny pack for unforeseen, trail repairs. Also put a few dollars in your fanny pack so you can purchase lunch or snacks along the way. Be sure to carry items to repair a flat tire. The staging area has plenty of room, but that's it.  Pack camping gear/food accordingly, if overnighting. Be sure your spark arrestor/muffler is QUIET! Loud bikes - stay home! Do that maintenance on your bike that you keep putting off: check nuts/bolts, oil, air filter, tires, chain...

• 8/8/10: We busted our fanny, (had problems then laughs with our preride crew and had to call Search-and-Rescue) but things worked out awesome for the event. The weather was great and it sounds like the rollcharts were dead-nuts on. The sidecars had fun on the C course, the B course had some tasty treats and the A riders were sweating heavily when they came in - a great event! The help and sweep crews are by far the best ANYWHERE! Again, thanks everyone who showed and we look forward to next year's Rat Dog! -Tom

• 8/4/10: That's it - taking off early Thursday morning to finish laying out the courses with some awesome helpers/riders! See ya'll out there for a FUN time, and don't forget to bring a roll of Scotch tape. See everyone out there!

• 8/2/10: Wow, the weather will be PERFECT for this Saturday's ride! Be aware there will be NO MORE email, web or cell phone access after Wednesday night, since we will be out there finalizing the courses!  Head's up! ALL motorbikes are required to have an Oregon ATV tag if you are off pavement in Oregon on public lands! This event is on public lands, so the cops might be out checking! CLICK HERE to get more info on Oregon's ATV tags! (There IS reciprocity between states if you have a tag from the state you live in). CLICK HERE to find out where to get a tag near you or on the way to the ride!

• 7/26/10: We have the Pre-Ride Poopsheet posted, so go check it out (above)!

• 7/20/10: Wow, have we got a sweeeeet ride for everyone! Some brand new stuff too! Finished laying out most of the B & C courses last Sunday and will finish up the A & AA options this Saturday. Am I actually ahead of schedule - what the ????

• 7/15/10: Am heading out this weekend for some serious recon and course layout. It's gonna be fun! Refreshing too, since it's in the Coast Range! I mailed out a few flyers for the event, so if some of you that receive them have already entered, please pass onto your riding buds!

• 6/16/10: The Rat Dog flyer is now posted, so sign up today!

• 12/1/09: The 2010 Rat Dog Ride will be: August 7!

• 8/5/09: Thanks everyone for showing up! Although there was no trail options (due to the fire level), we heard nothing but great comments about the course - and the Coast was nice and cool! See ya'll in 2010!

• 7/31/09: The Pre-Ride Poopsheet has been posted (see above)! See you all out there!

• 7/27/09: There has been requests of a detailed map of the Cedar Creek Staging Area. Just click on the link above to view it!

• 7/24/09: After returning from vacation, we've updated all the entries and mailed out some spare flyers. Going out this weekend to mark/confirm the routes!

• 7/6/09: The Rat Dog flyer is posted! After being very busy since the Black Dog, we're now working on the Rat Dog. Permits and routes are submitted and we are quite sure you all will REALLY enjoy this year's ride!