Some rallies leave you with sore muscles and dusty gear. Others leave you with memories that stick for life. This year’s Dudes of Dust Rally gave me a bit of both — but the real highlight wasn’t the dunes or the riding. It was meeting a crew that turned strangers into brothers:
ALM — Association Laayoune des Motocycles.
A Club with a Soul
Based in the southern Moroccan city of Laayoune, ALM is a local association of passionate riders — most of them deeply rooted in enduro biking. With the desert, dunes, and rocky terrain as their playground, they’ve mastered the land. But what sets them apart isn’t just their riding — it’s their spirit.
These guys ride hard, but they support harder. Whether you're local or just passing through, ALM welcomes you like one of their own.
Real Support in Real Moments
During the rally, I had my share of struggles — especially in the sand. I dropped my bike more than once, but every time, ALM was there. Smiling. Encouraging. Never letting me feel alone.
They were just as incredible with Roberto, another rider who suffered a serious breakdown. When his bike gave out in the middle of the desert, ALM took charge. They organized transport for him and his bike, making sure he got out safely. That kind of care goes beyond camaraderie — that’s real brotherhood.
Riders Who Ride With You
Through the deep sand sections, we weren’t riding behind ALM. They rode behind us — not to lead, not to protect, but to support. They made sure everyone made it through, helping anyone who got stuck or fell behind. Their presence gave us confidence when we needed it most.
And between the struggles? We had some of the best breaks of the rally — sharing cigarillos, laughing, telling stories, and soaking in the wild freedom of the desert together.
A Chance Meeting with a True Racer
The day before our desert crossing, we also met Hicham, a Moroccan rally driver who recently competed in the Morocco Desert Challenge — as the only Moroccan contestant. His calm confidence and humility were inspiring — a reminder that greatness often speaks quietly, but carries deep impact.
🔗 Follow ALM on Instagram
🔗 Follow Hicham on Instagram
More Than a Pit Stop
Back in Laayoune, ALM runs a space that’s far more than just a workshop. It’s a home base for bikers. Need tools? They’ve got you. Need to rest and recharge? They’ll make you feel at home. And if you’re lucky, they’ll offer you what might just be the best tea in the region — rich, warm, and served with a good story.
This Is What Riding Is About
Sure, the bikes are important. The landscapes, unforgettable. But in the end, what makes a ride legendary is the people you meet along the way. People who help you when you fall. Who ride with you, behind you, beside you. Who share their tea, their tools, and their time.
To everyone at Association Laayoune des Motocycles: thank you. You made the rally more than an adventure — you made it a memory I’ll carry forever.
To any rider heading south: make Laayoune part of your route. And when you get there, find ALM. You’ll ride out richer in more ways than one.
Rottweiler Motors
Ride hard. Ride together. Respect always.
