In a previous article, our readers were already introduced to one of the new activities of The Outsider, namely whisper boats. This time, we zoom in on another new activity of this specialist in outdoor activities, namely Offroad Steps and the accompanying events. Olivier Wauters, Executive Director of Eventonline, had a conversation about this with Jelle Verlinden, responsible coordinator for everything related to Offroad Steps within The Outsider.
“Our activities with offroad steps are operated over the different sites in Oudenaarde and the rest of Flanders,” says Jelle. “In Oudenaarde we have 27, in Aalst 16, at the coast 10 and in Limburg 16.
No ordinary step
Offroad Step … What’s in a name … “I have the impression that many people do not really know what to imagine. Often people think that an offroad step is a normal step with thick tyres, but actually it’s not at all,” Jelle laughs. “In principle you can compare an offroad scooter with a mountain bike, but then with a scooter chassis. So instead of sitting on it, you stand on it. The wheels are only two sizes smaller than on a mountain bike and have the same tyre profile with relief. The scooters are also equipped with double suspension on the front fork and on the rear wheel, which makes the scooter very manoeuvrable.”
Sustainability is highly valued at The Outsider. “Our offroad scooters are also fully electrically powered and they do have some power. The maximum speed is 25 km/h. There are five different settings, from level 1 for quiet beginners to level 5 with a lot of power for the sporty types. This makes the steps very accessible to both beginners and sporty mountain bikers who want a different challenge.
Different routes
As a company or as a private individual, you can ride a route on your scooter independently or accompanied. “You can also rent a GPS from us. A number of routes have been mapped out here in Oudenaarde. For beginners, advanced riders and also a pro route with steep climbs and descents and technical parts. It is also possible to hire monitors to map out the route and ensure safety,” says Jelle. “Anyone can book through the website. Companies are advised to contact our event team. Combinations with catering are also possible. If you book an activity as a company, a mixed audience is no problem, as a separate course can be mapped out for each group. Possibly in combination with other activities.
Safety
Steps are allowed from the age of 14 when accompanied by an adult. “We already provide a helmet and during the twilight period also lights for the scooter. Our scooters are bright orange and equipped with reflectors and bells so they are very visible. We also hand out fluorescent jackets depending on the size of the group.”
Reach
Those who fear having to return to base on foot halfway through the course due to an empty battery need not worry. “Our steps have a solid battery and are rented out for a session of about two hours,” assures Jelle. “A lot depends on the intensity with which you use the scooter. If you ride constantly on setting 5 and you brake often, that will of course affect the battery. From our tests, 40km is definitely achievable. The courses we plan are always around 30km. So there is always a margin in the battery. After all, the average speed per group will vary greatly.”
What if it rains?
Rain does not have to spoil the fun. On the contrary. “Rain is never a problem,” says Jelle. “As an avid mountain biker, I even find it more fun. The terrain is a bit greasier, but the tyres of our steps have a lot of grip and can cope with any surface. What you should possibly take into account is that you get dirtier. Good closed shoes and suitable clothing that can get dirty are a must. We also recommend that you always bring a spare set of clothes.
In short, offroad steps are an activity accessible to everyone, from recreational to extremely sporty. “A basic condition is more than sufficient. As a beginner you will ride out the tour perfectly, while the adrenaline junkie will certainly be able to enjoy himself,” says Jelle Verlinden.
