FORGED IN IRON.WILLS AND BUTTS

The story of my three Iron Butt runs and a plethora of nifty tips and tricks if you're thinking of attempting it yourself.

- SUNDEEP GAJJAR

AUGUST 28th, 1984. An American salesman named Mike Rose pitched the unthinkable idea of covering almost 13,000 kilometres in 10 days across the USA on motorcycles of that era. He named this after his favourite show, the Ironman Triathlon.

The term "Ironbutt" was coined, and the rest is history. Not only did testosterone-fueled American enthusiasts embrace this insane idea to prove whatever they had to prove, but this concept also gained global popularity among motorcyclists who wanted to stand out from the rest on two wheels.

Essentially, Ironbutt is about enduring at least 1,609 kilometres straight, or 1,000 miles. This specific sub-ride format is also known as SaddleSore 1000. The "1000" denotes miles, as this originated in America. It's called SaddleSore 1600K outside the USA, acknowledging that there's a world beyond America.

Let's get a bit philosophical. Why would anyone want to do such a thing? Is getting certified by the Iron Butt Association necessary? Who are they to certify us? When you have enough people clamouring for the same thing, it adds authenticity, providing a reasonable sample size to test your mettle against. It's not too common, nor is it too niche.

Maybe you're experiencing a midlife crisis. Perhaps you're a hot-blooded young enthusiast aiming to surpass your peers. Or maybe you're seeking meaning or testing your mental and physical endurance. Whatever the reason, that's what the Iron Butt Association, or IBA, facilitates. They offer ride formats with specific rules. You complete the ride, submit the necessary documents and a team of volunteers reviews your entry. If all is well, they'll send you a certificate and add your name to a webpage alongside successful riders worldwide.

KAWASAKI NINJA H2