To give a sneak peek on some of the activities that participants will experience in this year’s Lahar Challenge, the event’s organizer together with Motoworld Philippines invited select members of motoring media and motorcycle enthusiasts for an exclusive ‘Metzeler Lahar Experience’ held last April 17, 2019 in Angeles City, Pampanga.
Selected motorcycle enthusiasts and group of motoring media had a pre-taste of the 2019 Lahar Challenge
Using Yamaha XTZs installed with Metzeler MC360 Off-Road tires as their steeds for the day, the participants’ riding skills were put to test as they have learned new ways on how to maneuver the motorcycles across the unpredictable lahar, while others experienced the rough, beautiful lahar landscape by taking a special tour in a 4×4 vehicle. The special route took everyone through Sapang Bato, hot springs, streams and other points of interest in the lahar area.
Participants using Yamaha XTZ (*Photo from Motoworld Philippines)
Moreover, participants were also challenged with exciting games such as the Fastest Lap Tandem Ride and Forged Fire Starting Challenge. With the use of Morakniv’s Eldris Neck Knife Kit of Forged Philippines, the participants even learned how to start fire – one of the most basic outdoor survival skills.
The whole-day affair was just a taste of what will be going down on May 4 and 5, when 2019 Lahar Challenge participants put their riding and non-riding skills to the test through a two-day challenge in the lahar area.
*Photo from Motoworld Philippines
According to the organizer of the event, the Lahar Challenge is not only a venue for motorcycle riders to meet fellow enthusiasts and to test their mettle and skills, this unique event also aims to provide opportunities for people to learn more about the Aeta communities and their rich culture, and the different ways to show respect for their heritage, customs and ancestral domain. It also aims to put the Philippines on the world map as a destination of choice for motorcycle enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.
*Photo from Motoworld Philippines
The first Lahar Challenge was held in April last year, and saw a total of 60 participants rising up to ten different challenges that tested their endurance, team work, motor riding skills and strength. This year, the event is forging new paths as teams will be staying overnight within the lahar area. Participants will also be putting their team work and endurance, as well as survival, navigational and motor-riding skills to the test, with three exciting and fun challenges.
The ‘Metzeler Lahar Experience’ is made possible through partnerships with Motoworld Philippines, Metzeler Motorcycle Tyres, Yamaha Motor Philippines, Imprint Customs and Forged Philippines.