Roadbook Distance Reference and Trip Drift

Each roadbook box gives a cumulative distance. That number refers to a precise feature – the centre of a junction, the start of a bridge or the foot of a dune – called the distance reference. Knowing what the organiser measured to helps you recognise the right spot.

Your trip meter will still drift away from the book. Common causes are a different tyre size or worn tyre, wheelspin in sand or mud, a different line through corners and GPS errors.

Correct the trip at every clearly identifiable box (a junction or bridge), not only when you get lost. A rally trip computer with a handlebar remote makes these quick corrections easy while riding.