"preparing for adventure"
About Trailquest
TRAILQUEST ADVENTURE MOTORCYCLE ACADEMY
Welcome to Trailquest . One of the UK's leading off road riding schools, adventure trainers and expedition organisers.
We are now taking bookings for 2025 and Christmas vouchers are now available.
We are delighted to announce a sponsorship agreement with USA based companies FE Active and HWK Moto who are supplying us with expedition gear and equipment and adventure rider clothing. Their support has been extremely generous and much appreciated. Pictures of their gear and clothing in use will be added in due course.
https://www.feactive.com
Line in the Sand Book - based on Trailquest expeditions in Morocco
FILM - Legion Project -Morocco
FILM - HIMALAYANS AT TRAILQUEST ADVENTURE CENTRE
Who we are:
Established over twenty two years ago we have an enviable track record of success. Our well qualified team has a wealth of experience, having participated and led adventurous expeditions to remote regions throughout the world, ranging from the Arctic Circle to the Sahara, and from East Africa to the Himalayas.
What we do:
Using our extensive experience in adventurous travel and network of contacts we offer training and support to anyone looking to have an adventure. Day to day this involves running a selection of rider and expedition training courses which are aimed at differing levels of ability and experience. We also provide expedition consultancy to those preparing for long duration trips in remote areas. We have helped prepare and train several round the world expeditions and numerous Trans Africa/Trans America expeditions. The team can do everything from simply evaluating and advising on a plan through to fully organising and preparing a team for an expedition.
On a regular basis we also devise and lead our own expeditions to a range of diverse and challenging locations around the globe. Our expedition teams are usually made up of satisfied clients who have attended our training courses, met our friendly instructors and worked up an appetite for adventure!
We have experience of working with clients ranging from private individuals to larger groups and with corporate clients and universities.
We are used to working with the media and have worked with TV producers and press.
Our Facilities :
The facilities available to Trailquest are extensive. Our main operating base is a private estate near Ledbury, Herefordshire. The 1200 acre estate is privately owned and Trailquest have exclusive use of the facility. Set in the Midlands it has easy access via the M5 / M50 motorways, a mainline railway station at Ledbury and a helicopter / light aircraft landing ground.
We also have access to a further 1000 acres of Forest Commission land near Hereford and several hundred acres of mountain terrain near Abergavenny in South Wales. Our diverse training areas allow us to provide training on all types of trails, with the intention of replicating the types of trails travellers are likely to encounter on a real adventure.
Trailquest Expeditions
On a Trailquest Expedition our mission is to get off the beaten track and explore some of the world’s more remote regions often taking in routes where few travellers have been before. The key word being used here is ‘explore’, our expeditions are not road tours, and not about travelling from one destination to another as fast as you can! To us the expedition is about the journey itself, the people you meet, the challenges you are forced to overcome and everything else you experience along the way. Many of our expeditions have genuine research aims and we have worked with universities and individuals carrying out archaeological and geological fieldwork in many remote areas.
What sort Expeditions do we run?
We offer places on a range of expeditions to different parts of the world. We have in the past been to destinations such as Ethiopia, Morocco, South Africa, Iceland, India and Finland. We tend to alternate where we go and are always looking for new challenges. Between now and the end of 2025 we currently have planned expeditions to Morocco and India. We are also looking at other destinations.
There are many tour operators advertising their services so why choose Trailquest?
The reason we are so successful is the special way we organise our expeditions.
1. All those taking part in our expeditions must have attended at least one Trailquest off road riding course so that we can assess riding skills
The Expeditions we run range in difficulty, therefore we are able to offer places to people with varying levels of experience. Our aim is to try and fit people to expeditions that match their capabilities. We find doing this adds to the enjoyment for all involved.
2. Once a team has been put together the team will undergo group training prior to going on the expedition.
During the build up to the expedition we always run a Team Training weekends which are a good way for everyone to meet each other and to allow a team dynamic to form. We expect everyone to work together and work as a team whilst on an Expedition. There is nothing worse than turning up at a foreign destination to find you are joining a large group of strangers with wide ranging skill levels and aspirations for the trip.
Trailquest Expedition Guides
Our staff guides will work hard to ensure you are safe at all times. Most are ex military and all have considerable experience of adventure motorcycling in remote areas and experience of working in challenging environments. They will meet you on arrival at the start point of the expedition and be on hand at all times to ensure your safety and enjoyment.
In addition we have an extensive range of local "fixers" and other contacts in every country where we operate.These people have detailed knowledge of their country and many are employed by major TV and film companies.
Where necessary we liaise closely with the governments of the countries we are operating in.
Medical Cover
All applicants are required to complete a detailed medical questionaire so that we can be sure they are fit for the physical challenges that may be encountered.
We have our own fully qualified NHS consultant doctor who has specialied in Expedition Medicine who will accompany all expeditions. They carry a comprehensive range of medical equipment and treatments including antibiotics and oxygen as required.
Expedition Support
Trailquest always provides appropriate support including vehicles, equipment and staff for all expeditions. This team will handle everything from bike repairs to medical evacuation.
Accommodation
Accommodation on our expeditions ranges from wild camping to 5* hotels. Again this entirely depends on where we are going and what sort of expedition it is. The cost in included in the expedition fee.
Who do we take?
We are open to anyone who shares our passion for adventure and exploration however ............
All applicants for team places are required to submit an application form and undergo an interview and practical selection process designed to assess their physical fitness, team work, problem solving abilities and general expedition skills. We expect those selected to attend at least one team training weekend prior to the expedition (which is included in the overall cost). This is to ensure the whole team knows each other before we depart. We aim to put like-minded people together into an expedition team, this is crucial to the enjoyment of the overall experience.
What are the Costs/Duration?
These differ depending on location and style of Expedition you are on. Price's usually start from around £3,900 - £4500 and the length ranges from 8-15 days.
Fees do not include your international flights to / from the country where the expedition will take place but does include all internal travel ( flights / trains/ taxis) as required.
Testimonials and Track Record
We have been running training and expeditions for over twenty two years. They have been challenging but all have been completed accident free and with all clients having a great experience. We have a massive amount of repeat business with some clients signing up for trips before they even know where they will be going! We have had considerable media coverage. You can read testimonials on this site.
Interested?
If you are an individual or a corporate / academic / media organisation and interested in discovering more about our previous expeditions or joining us on one of our upcoming expeditions, please get in contact and let us know your sort of project you are interested in.
If you are planning your own expedition and require assistance or support please contact us.
2025 Expeditions
Morocco - March ( fully booked)
This expedition will form part of the Legion Project and will involve archaeological fieldwork requiring off road riding, trekking and 4x4 driving. We will be riding KTM890 Adventure and BMW 850GS bikes.
October - South Africa - (fully booked)
A challenging off road adventure visiting four countries in ten days.
Recent Expeditions Completed
September 2023
Himalayas ( Sach Pass - North West India 2023)
The expedition to the Himalayas in NW India began on the 1 September 2023. It was a great success and much enjoyed by all who took part in the challenge,
Film (courtesy of one of our clients) - Sach Pass Expedition
We are already considering future projects in India so please do contact us if you are interested and we will let you have further information.
2024 Expeditions
Morocco - February 2024 (completed)
This was a mixed 4x4 / adventure motorcycle archaeological expedition to SW Morocco. Continuing the previous work on colonial era forts and fortifications this expedition concentrated on the survey of one important site.
NW India - Ladakh - September 2024 (completed)
Ladakh is both the largest and the second least populous union territory of India. The name means “Land of High Places” and much of the territory is at a height of 3500m above sea level. The spectacular scenery and challenging riding make it an fascinating region to explore on a motorcycle and a true adventure is assured for all those taking part in this exciting expedition.
Previous Locations
Since Trailquest began we have organised and led off road motorcycle trips to the following countries - Iceland, Finland, Spain, Morocco, Tunisia, Ethiopia, South Africa, India, Indonesia and Lithuania.
Take a look at our Expeditions Gallery to get an idea of what our expeditions are all about.
Adventure Rider Training
Group Sizes:
Many clients have told us they have attended other training organisations and been very uncomfortable with the group sizes, mixing of ability levels and speed of riding. Our speciality is training for individuals and pairs. We find this makes for a more enjoyable experience (especially for the more nervous rider) and allows clients the opportunity to really speak with and learn from their time with our experienced instructors. We are happy to run 1:1 training at no additional cost.
Course List:
Trailquest offers training courses to suit the client’s individual requirements on a bespoke basis. However we find that the vast majority of clients are interested in the following set courses:
Introduction to Adventure Riding - £300
A one day course the Introduction to Adventure Riding course is designed to provide clients with skills and knowledge to confidently ride a large adventure bike on a range of off road trails. The course accurately reflects the types of terrain and conditions a client might encounter on a motorcycle expedition. It is suitable for those with little or no previous off road experience and is the most booked course we run.
Many of those attending have years of road riding experience but very few have much off road riding background and, of those that do, most come from the smaller trail bike world. Client feedback has been 100% positive and suggests that almost everyone learns something on the course.
Intermediate - £300
A very popular one day course open to all who have completed our Introductory Course. Usually run at our Malvern Adventure Centre the course takes clients into more challenging terrain and builds upon the skills and techniques covered on the Introductory Course.
Expedition Training Course - £320 - £720
Aimed at those planning their own trips abroad or taking part in expeditions run by others this course covers a range of expedition skills including survival skills, wild camping, First Aid, expedition security, navigation, bike preparation and other skills as required. The skills and experience of our instructors are crucial for the delivery of high standards of training. Courses are one , two or three days in duration.
NEW FOR 2025 - Expedition Medical Training - £375 per person
A two day course run by a fully qualified NHS doctor and experienced expedition medic covering all aspects of expedition medical care.
Bespoke Training - Cost TBD
If our list of regular courses does not meet your needs, as mentioned above, we are more than happy to devise a course that is specific to your requirements. Please get in contact with us to discuss your options.
Bike / Riding Equipment Hire:
Often we find clients are keen to train using their own bikes. The standard adventure bike we provide is currently the Royal Enfield Himalayan. Light weight, very robust, reliable and easy to ride we have used them since they were first brought out . We have used many other bikes over the years but none has done the job required as well as the Royal Enfield Himalayan.
In view of the past Covid 19 pandemic and our revised general hygiene policy we are no longer hiring out clothing, boots or helmets. Clients are advised to bring their own riding gear.
Cost:
- Off- Road Rider Training (using own bike): £275-00 per day (any day from 1 March – 30 September)
- Off- Road Rider Training (with bike hire): £300-00 per day (any day from 1 March – 30 September)
(Please note: Payment in full is taken at the time of booking. Funds should be paid direct to our business bank account the details of which will be supplied on request. The price of a course includes a non refundable booking fee of £75).
If you are interested in training with us please contact us for further information and to book dates.
Take a look at our Rider Training Gallery for an idea of what our courses are all about.
Contact
- Albright Lane, Bromsberrow, Ledbury, HR8 1RZ
- +44-07500 046659
- trailquest@btinternet.com
- Mon-Friday - 09:00-17:00
Gallery
Expedition Gallery
Testimonials
Such a great learning experience with Trailquest. World class coaching across a range of challenging surfaces and situations.
Nick Houlton Thanks again for a fantastic day out, thoroughly enjoyable and very educational, I learned a lot under your calm and knowledgeable hand and it has given me a thirst to learn more.
Thanks for all of the advice about kit/accessories etc, I should have looked for your advice before buying my riding gear
Derek Barlow From training to the undertaking of expeditions; the Trailquest team offer a comprehensive and professional approach that assures you that you are in capable hands and you're operating in the margins of safety at all times. Their real talent lies in opening up the sense of adventure from training to expedition through precise and pragmatic planning.
Speaking from the experience of the recent India trip, the Trailquest team delivered an experience that many would find hard to rival.
Joe M A superb introduction to handling a large adventure bike and far superior to other courses I have attended. Excellent instruction by a highly professional team – thank you Patrick and Richard.
Joe L Great memories & superb trip ....can’t recommend these guys enough for your adventure needs.
Mathew Tattersal Many thanks and congratulations on such a successful trip. For such a size of group and such activities, it is a credit to you and Patrick that it went so well and without a single hitch.
We all had a lot of fun and also saw things that would not have been possible as a solo traveler / biker.
Please pass my thanks to all those that helped.
Simon Thomas I had an amazing time at Trailquest today and cannot wait to come back.
Fajili Bibi Thanks for the great time with Trailquest. Everything we learned will be very useful and found it matched and then exceeded what I expected and hoped for.
Paul T Brilliant, can’t praise this place enough! Well structured and the delivery of training 1st class!!
Dale T Just to say thanks and to offer my compliments on your training: Good, measured pace, clear explanations and fun. All round excellent.
Peter R Thank you very much Richard. I had a wonderful day and you're an excellent trainer. Trailquest decal on my Metal Mule panniers. Will make contact once on the Pamir Highway.
Malcolm D Once again, many thanks for the professional and friendly training day.
Marcus O I liked your method of teaching and felt safe and enjoyed every minute being on the bike. Thank you for all the inspiration, I left with a head full of information and hope to continue putting that all into practice.
Melissa B We all very much enjoyed our day with you and Paul - haven’t had so much fun on 2 wheels for a long time! Daunting start, followed by an enjoyable, educational and professionally managed day. Perfect !
David Williams I have really enjoyed the experience and will champion you to anyone who will listen to me and also hope to be with you for Day 3 later in the year.
Mark A Fantastic day with Trailquest today. I loved every single minute of this great experience and I will be back for Day 2 (and 3) next year. I have been riding motorcycles since I was 6 years old, I turn 50 on 23rd September, and I can honestly say this is one of my best motorcycle memories of all time. Great day, great bike, thank you Richard.
Andrew Londsborough Thanks for a fun day! My first humble attempt on a bike. I would definitely recommend to those who also want to give it a go. I can vouch for the patience of the trainer!
Sophia Raja I had a fantastic time - thank you, it was just perfect for me. I do hope I can make it back for Day 2 and 3!
Nicola Fowler Thanks for another great ride, really big confidence booster towards a proper adventure trip . I'll book day three as soon as I get leave rota.
D Jenkins Thanks Richard, he had the most amazing time and came home absolutely buzzing! Thanks again for an incredible day.
Jane Craig Thanks to you and Nick for your tuition – most enjoyable 2 days – definitely hope to come back. Keep me posted about any adventures planned in the future.
Ian McIntosh A big thank you to both you and Nick for a fabulous day. I was apprehensive to start with but your expert tuition and advice built my confidence throughout the day. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and hope to attend the two day course in the near future.
Gary Pickford Thoroughly enjoyed the training. Learnt plenty of new skills and gained a lot of confidence. Superb lessons and delivery. Just right level for the level for us and I will be booking follow up training shortly.
Colin Campbell Thank you for a great training day. I have certainly got the off-road-bug now so will have to try and find a date that is free for me to do the Day 2 course.
Alex Short Thanks again for a super day on Saturday and your expert instruction.
Simon Wolton Many thanks . It has been a great day and I feel that I’ve learnt quite a bit as well as really enjoying the experience. Please book me on to the next Day 2 course.
Tom Bayram Many thanks for an extremely enjoyable day. I managed to make it to Normandy to see my parents without 'kissing the tarmac'. Very much look forward to doing the two to three day course sometime in the first part of next year.
Charles Petrie A brilliant day. Your tuition was set at just the right level and I appreciated your patience! I look forward to doing Day 2 later this year.
P James A big thanks for yesterday, very enjoyable and very confidence boosting. I can totally understand where Trailquest are coming from with the training provided. As you say what’s the point of hammering through beautiful countryside to reach your destination and missing everything in between, or maybe not even making it there!
Your delivery was brilliant, so many great tips and advice.
Tim Ryan Thank you so much for one of the most enjoyable biking days/experience, your patience and professional approach second to none. I certainly will be back for the next stage.
Christopher Howard Thanks everyone for the great experience and to the organizing crew for the training plan! I feel so lucky to be able to ride and learn from such a talented group of people!
F Ragazzi thanks - it was a great day and surpassed my expectations as I never thought you would run a session just for one person.
Ian Cartledge Many thanks for yesterday's Day 3 mini adventure, I had an excellent days riding & learnt such a lot. (As is usual for one of your courses).
Ivor Mathias I had a cracking time. Thank you so much for the training. You're patient and excellent teacher. I can't wait to come back and do more, no matter what the weather.
Nigel Kellow After much searching, we came across Trail Quest. We quickly realised that Richard and his crew had a different attitude to many of the other outfits that we had contacted, not only were they happy to provide skills training and ongoing support to a novice like me, but the place on the trip was not assured until they and spent some time with us and an invitation was extended. Trail quest insisted on multiple pre-trip training and team bonding meetups, initially this filled me with anxiety as my preconceptions about a trip like this would be populated with macho ex enduro types ever ready to highlight my inexperience and lack of technical skill away from the pavement. The reality was very different.
The initial training that had been laid on especially for me was invaluable. With a real comprehension of my inexperience and apprehension, Richard and Patrick guided me through the fundamental techniques that I would need for the trip and gave me a solid platform to build from.
Sophie Ashley We had a fabulous day and I personally am really pleased with what I achieved. David, was surprised at how much he learnt too even with umpteen years motorcycling experience.
I also want to say thank you to you as I really liked your instructor style and made me feel very at ease and help me push myself.
David and Lisa Killner
David & Lisa Killner