Equipment

The following is the most recently updated list of those helping the project with equipment and expertise.

BMW Motorrad Ireland
I had chosen and purchased my F650 Dakar before I approached BMW. It was important I got them onside as their name would add credibility to the fundraising effort. BMW Motorrad have been very supportive of the project since the beginning, assisting with various gear and equipment needs, and most significantly bike preparation. En route logistics support has also been offered. Thanks also to Stewart in Joe Duffy Motors who seems to know the F650 like the back of his hand!
Since a chance meeting on the shores of Lough Derg, Paul Grant of (soon to open) Naas Motorrad has been a great source of advice and support. An ex KTM off roader (recently a BMW convert), Paul has had extensive experience as a CAT Service manager in Africa.

BMT (Blakestown Motorcycle Tyres)
I met Iggy while checking out the best place in Dublin for tyres and he gave me a fair deal. Since hearing of the project he's been extremely supportive, obtaining various equipment sponsorship, as well as urging the biking community to support the charity through his various contacts. Iggy highlights the importance of promotion in increasing the fundraising profile for SELF HELP. Full marks for his commitment to the cause!
Dion "the lateral thinking mechanic", who works with Iggy, has generously given his time, energy and expertise (and a Micron exhaust!). A very useful man to have in your corner.

Touratech
German company renowned for their catalogue of overland and off road accessories. Sponsoring a set of aluminium panniers, and heavily discounted the expensive tank conversion kit which will hugely increase the bike's range. Will report further after installation.

Cambrian Tyres (UK)
Main UK importers for Continental Tyres. Have sponsored a set of Conti Escapes (my current tyre) from Kilkenny to Morocco, then TKC 80's through Africa. These tyres were on the bikes at the BMW Off Road course. Very impressive how they held to the rough terrain, as well as the five mile tarmac back to base.
Xtreme 45
Eoin Smyth in Donabate generously sponsored a top of the range Arai Tour X helmet.

Uncaged, Arklow
Passed an enjoyable Sunday open afternoon down there. Great lads, comprehensive workshop with machining capacity. Are sponsoring a customised Hagon shock.

IDL
DID X ring chain and sprockets plus spare. Am informed they're best on the market.

IrishBikerForum.com and BikeIreland.ie
Matt Lemon is supporting the fund and awareness raising effort with a banner on his forum, currently running at 1,000+ members. Thanks to IBF members.
Also thanks to Bike Ireland for the banner supporting the project on their homepage.

ilikecake.net
Thanks to Brendan for his offer to host and maintain my website.

Paras Tools
Paul Richards has offered to supply a toolkit.

Ultraseal
Some advice has been a bit doubtful about its effectiveness, but I've been convinced by first and second hand reports of its potential to protect tubes from effects of punctures. One acquaintance returned back to UK from Mali not having had a flat! I am happily accepting their offer of sponsorship.