Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
307 Days to the Ride
Brrrrrrrr!!!!; got a chilly ride in today. I leathered up but decided I didn't need the chaps; not the best decision I've made but I survived. Temps struggled to get into the 60's and with the wind gusts it felt like 40's or 50's. Hard to believe it is still August. I rode out among the lakes and got some practice on the "windies" and "twisties" with some good cross winds. Bike continues to impress me with how solid it is under all conditions. Of course, this isn't like the wide open spaces of Montana or the swirling winds of crossing the Mackinac Bridge but every day is another experience in learning how to become "one with the bike". The trees are beginning to change color, ever so slightly, and I think we're going to have a crisp fall and an early winter. If this weather will hold for another week I'll make the trip to Cleveland and get some practice navigating roads I haven't been on before. I'm going to try and make the trip without getting on any expressways or toll roads. Route 2 along Lake Erie is supposed to be nice and it will take me past places I used to go as a kid when we would visit my grandparents cottage. I may also try using the tent for sleeping if I can't sleep aboard the Cod.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
308 Days to the Ride
Weather is crappy; wish I was on the road. Completed the route planning which will take us from the Lower Peninsula of Michigan to the U.P; then west through Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana (with a stop in Glacier National Park); then to Coeur d' Alene, Idaho and finally into Washington to meet up with Don Gentry, the Silent Service Motorcycle Club and other Submarine Sailors in the area. The way back will take us into Oregon, back through southern Idaho and Montana to Yellowstone and then east to Cody, WY and the Chief Joseph Trail up to Custer National Battlefield; then down to Sheridan Wyoming for a possible meet up with Ron Martini and then back east towards Mt. Rushmore, in South Dakota. There is an interesting photo taken from the backside (pun intended) of Mt Rushmore which is posted above. From there we will head south into Nebraska and then east through Iowa, Illinois, Indiana and finally back into Michigan for a ride through the Irish Hills and back home. If it all works out as planned it will take us 21 days to go almost 6,000 miles and visit 14 states (some of them twice).
At the completion of this trip I will have come close to visiting all 50 states plus the territories in my lifetime; New Mexico will have to wait for another time; maybe that will be the next ride?
Friday, August 28, 2009
309 Days to the Ride
More rain today and for the entire weekend. Probably won't get the ride to Cleveland in this week so will try for Labor Day weekend. Glad to see Ralph is starting to get the truck prepared for the long journey; he'll be adding another 2,000 miles to the journey since he starts out in South Carolina and heads to Michigan to meet up with the rest of us.
In his comment earlier this week Ralph mentioned extra weight and stopping distances which is good advice. I'm going to try and keep the weight of luggage at under 30 pounds which is far less than what a passenger would be. I'll need a few practice rides with the fully loaded bike to see how it handles in windy conditions but that can be done later this fall or next spring when the real planning and preparation work begins. For now, it's do the research, keep good notes, spend time looking for those places to "sight see" and dreaming about next summer on the road.
I'm not sure how many more "daily" posts I'll make but I certainly encourage the other members to chime in and write down what they're doing to get ready for the trip. This forum is for all of us.
I had some time this morning to look at Mt. Hood National Forest; they have some interesting things there and I'm going to investigate, further, the area around "Clackamas" River. Supposed to be some good things to see there.
In his comment earlier this week Ralph mentioned extra weight and stopping distances which is good advice. I'm going to try and keep the weight of luggage at under 30 pounds which is far less than what a passenger would be. I'll need a few practice rides with the fully loaded bike to see how it handles in windy conditions but that can be done later this fall or next spring when the real planning and preparation work begins. For now, it's do the research, keep good notes, spend time looking for those places to "sight see" and dreaming about next summer on the road.
I'm not sure how many more "daily" posts I'll make but I certainly encourage the other members to chime in and write down what they're doing to get ready for the trip. This forum is for all of us.
I had some time this morning to look at Mt. Hood National Forest; they have some interesting things there and I'm going to investigate, further, the area around "Clackamas" River. Supposed to be some good things to see there.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
310 Days to the Ride
Not much to report today; weather has turned cold so any riding will be done in full leathers to keep warm. This is all good practice. This weekend I hope to be able to make a 300 mile ride with the equipment loaded onto the bike to get some experience riding it fully loaded. With luck it will rain and I'll get the full experience of testing the elements.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
311 Days to the Ride
Rain day today and I wish I was out riding in it. I need the practice because I know for sure it will rain, probably more than once, while we're on the trip. There will be another meeting tonight at O'Tooles to discuss the route and sights to see while we're making the trip. I've asked Don Gentry (our tour guide I hope when we reach the Seattle area) how much time he will be able to spend riding with us. Don is one of those guys who you just take a liking to without much effort. When I first started talking about this dream of mine he was one of the first to offer encouragement to "just go for it". Our common bond of being qualified submarine sailors is what linked us together several years ago and our common heritage of being from the Detroit area gave us some non-submarine memories to share. I'm looking forward to finally meeting him in person and sharing another shared passion "riding Harley's". We might even swap a few sea stories (TINS) and ping a little on our "jarhead" traveling companion. Don; if you're reading this is there a "Horse and Cow" in the Seattle area where we can take the Marine and get him thoroughly harassed?
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
312 Days to the Ride
Got a taste of "chilly riding weather" today as temps dropped into the 50'sF here in Michigan. I guess this is what it will be like when we reach the higher elevations of Montana, Idaho and Washington. Cool mornings, warm afternoons and chilly evenings. Good practice in packing the right clothing and having it readily available for changing conditions. Supposed to go to the mid-80's here today so the ride home will be in much lighter clothing than the ride in. I'm getting much more proficient in packing the saddle bags efficiently.
Monday, August 24, 2009
313 Days to the Ride
Today I did a preliminary pack of the Nelson-Rigg Tour Pack. This bag is going to be perfect for this trip. Everything I have learned thus far is to take only two of everything (wear one; pack one) so just to test the bag for overall capacity I packed 3 of everything and didn't come close to filling it up. I kept the weight under 20 pounds also, so by eliminating a few things I'll have plenty of room for an extra set of boots and, of course, my leather jacket for those cold rides in the mountains. By moving some stuff around I'll probably have room in the saddle bags for the boots. Then I'll put the tent on one side of the saddle bags and the sleeping bag on the other and that should balance everything out. Just think, only 10 more months to test it out and then we're off. I wonder which one of us will forget that "most important item" and discover it first?
That's enough trivia for now. Now I can check one more thing off the ever expanding list of things to do and learn.
That's enough trivia for now. Now I can check one more thing off the ever expanding list of things to do and learn.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
314 Days until the Ride
Today I purchased the luggage rack to support the Tour Bag. I hope I have some money left when the time for the ride arrives. All that is left for the bike to be completely equipped is a set of Highway Pegs and a Rider's Backrest. Then I'll pick up the rest of the equipment and spend a lot of time packing and repacking until I get it just right.
The tour bag (system) all fit together with no problems. The hard part will be avoiding filling it up with a bunch of stuff I'm not going to use.
Additionally, thanks to Mary's tutoring, I have added links to the two rides I mentioned in earlier posts and sent some of you by e-mail. One is from Tim Sheridan who rode the 4 corners ride around the U.S. and put in over 12,000 miles in 21 days; and the other is "Old Bags on Bikes" who are six ladies from New York (Long Island) who rode to 31 states; 3 countries in 31 days. Both sites provide excellent photos and great comments on what we can expect when we take our ride. If their collective musings hold true we can expect to get some great experience riding in the rain.
Friday, August 21, 2009
316 Days to the Ride
Today has been a day of researching not only places to see but "things that can go wrong" if you don't pay attention. I read a great line on the website "oldbagsonbikes" that I need to remember; it goes something like this; "things that aren't attached securely tend to disappear quickly".
I encourage each participant to read this travelogue to have a few laughs, see some good photography and to learn from these ladies what can go right and wrong when making a long distance motorcycle ride. The travelogue from Tim Sheridan is also a good one; he rode the 4 Corners ride and did almost 12,000 miles in 21 days. He has some great points on what we can expect and has been a good sounding board for the questions I have been asking.
Not much else going on as far as planning. Sunday I will go and buy the luggage rack and start mounting the Nelson-Rigg Tour Bag; ought to be interesting. I hope my laptop will fit in there safely.
I encourage each participant to read this travelogue to have a few laughs, see some good photography and to learn from these ladies what can go right and wrong when making a long distance motorcycle ride. The travelogue from Tim Sheridan is also a good one; he rode the 4 Corners ride and did almost 12,000 miles in 21 days. He has some great points on what we can expect and has been a good sounding board for the questions I have been asking.
Not much else going on as far as planning. Sunday I will go and buy the luggage rack and start mounting the Nelson-Rigg Tour Bag; ought to be interesting. I hope my laptop will fit in there safely.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
317 Days to the Ride
Jim and I held a route map meeting last night and have agreed that following Rt 2 out of Michigan all along the northern U.S. is the way we want to go to Washington. We also agreed that the route back will include Yellowstone National Park, Cody, Wyoming, and the Custer National Monument in Montana. Today I discovered, while researching these areas and from suggestions from other riders that we should also include riding on the Chief Joseph Highway and Beartooth Pass. These are spectacular roads that will take us from Yellowstone to the Custer Monument and battle site in grand style. My research has also uncovered some websites of other riders who have made similiar trips and their narratives and photo albums are breathtaking. I encourage each of you participants to read and enjoy these as they will give you insight into what its like to ride motorcycles on long journeys and the types of people (men and women) who do it. I confess to really identifying with all the reasons these riders cite for making their trips; they just say it better than I do.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
318 Days Until the Ride
Not much to post today but plenty to think about. I've been getting some good advice on "things to consider" on how to make this ride work so that everyone gets out of it what they want. Good thing we have a little over 10 months to sort it all out.
Jim and I will be meeting tonight to review route maps for the ride home and to start listing things to see and do while staying in the Seattle area. Probably enjoy a burger and a brew while we're at it and also check out the other bikes and the Classic Cars. More about routes and sights later.
Jim and I will be meeting tonight to review route maps for the ride home and to start listing things to see and do while staying in the Seattle area. Probably enjoy a burger and a brew while we're at it and also check out the other bikes and the Classic Cars. More about routes and sights later.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Start testing the luggage
The Nelson-Rigg solar bag arrived yesterday and tomorrow I will start the process of packing it with various elements of "stuff to take" using the check list as a guide. Before I can mount it on the bike I will need to get the "chrome HD luggage rack" (more money out the door) and get it installed. The installation part is easy; the payment part is the challenge; there goes my kids inheritance.
When I get it loaded up I'll post a photo for all to see; that way the other riders will get a chance to plan how they are going to pack.
Speaking of other riders I heard back from Roy Brewer MSgt USAF Retired (Viet Nam Vet) and Harley Rider. He is interested in the trip and will be in Michigan next week. I will update him on our plans and see if he wants to join us. I think limiting the number of people participating to 6 (7 if Blue shows up) is the optimum size. It will keep logistics easier and is big enough to provide us a safety shell while we're on the road. Ralph can keep tailgaters off our backside or help break the wind on those days when we're bucking headwinds.
Don Gentry has agreed to put this blog on his BBS when we start the ride so the submarine community can follow our progress and experiences.
I'm going to try and get another high mileage test run on Labor Day weekend by riding down to Cleveland and visiting the guys at USS Cod SS 224. They have promised me I can sleep in Hogan's Alley for the night. Anybody want to meet me there; or in Jim's case, go along for the ride?
320 Days to "The Ride"
When I get it loaded up I'll post a photo for all to see; that way the other riders will get a chance to plan how they are going to pack.
Speaking of other riders I heard back from Roy Brewer MSgt USAF Retired (Viet Nam Vet) and Harley Rider. He is interested in the trip and will be in Michigan next week. I will update him on our plans and see if he wants to join us. I think limiting the number of people participating to 6 (7 if Blue shows up) is the optimum size. It will keep logistics easier and is big enough to provide us a safety shell while we're on the road. Ralph can keep tailgaters off our backside or help break the wind on those days when we're bucking headwinds.
Don Gentry has agreed to put this blog on his BBS when we start the ride so the submarine community can follow our progress and experiences.
I'm going to try and get another high mileage test run on Labor Day weekend by riding down to Cleveland and visiting the guys at USS Cod SS 224. They have promised me I can sleep in Hogan's Alley for the night. Anybody want to meet me there; or in Jim's case, go along for the ride?
320 Days to "The Ride"
Monday, August 17, 2009
Check list for travel gear
I found this list of things to consider on a "Motorcycle Camping" Website. It is a very complete list and I don't think we will have to take everything on it since much of our overnight lodging will be in "less than 5 Star" hotels; with apologies to our member from New York. But, it's a good planning tool and one I intend to use to start packing the bags and loading onto the bike for practice.
Motorcycle Camping Checklist
Created: 23-Jul-2009
Top of Form
CAMPING/SLEEPING EQUIPMENT
Air mattress
Pillow (travel)
Bivouac bag/sack
Poncho liner & stuff sack
Candle lantern
Sleeping bag
Candle lantern candles (spares)
Sleeping bag waterproof-bag
Compass
Sleeping hood (hat)
Ear plugs
Sleeping pad (insulated)
Feces shovel
Sleeping pad chair/sling
Flashlight
Sven saw
Flashlight batteries (spares)
Tent
Flashlights (magnilites (2))
Tent rain fly
Ground tarps (1 per 2 days - split and trash 1/2 each day)
Tent waterproof-bag
Knife (Buck)
Waterproofing spray and seamlock
Knife sharpener
Nylon cord
COOKING/EATING EQUIPMENT
Bags (plastic large garbage)
Napkins
Bags (plastic small trash, 1 for every 4-5 days)
Paper towels
Can opener
Pepper
Coffee bags
Plate
Coffee creamer
Pot gripper
Coffee mug (insulated)
Pots
Coffee sugar
Salt
Cup & spoon
Soap/scrubber pads
Cup/beer stein
Soy (2-3 small boxes)
Dish towel
Spoon(s)
Energy bars/raisins
Stove
Food
Stove gas (white gas)
Fork
Stove wind screen
Jack knife
Water bottle(s) (2)
Knife
Water carrier (1 gallon)
Match case
Matches (farmers)
Matches (in sealed plastic bag/bottle)
Matches (waterproof)
Riding Gear
Boot sock liners
Pants for riding (Levis)
Boots (canvas mukluks or rubber type)
Rain gear (boots, vest, etc.)
Chaps
Rain suit
Gators
Rain totes & stuff sack
Gauntlets
Sailor hat for riding without a helmet on hot days
Gloves (cold weather)
Shirts (long-sleeve, turtle-neck T-shirts)
Gloves (electric & wire harness)
Ski goggles for riding without a helmet
Gloves (hot weather)
Ski warm-ups
Gloves (rubber)
Socks (cotton)
Gloves (wool liners and dish washing rain gloves)
Socks (neoprene)
Hat (wool)
Socks (wool)
Helmet
Spandex shorts
Jacket
Sunglasses
Jacket (polypro ski)
Sunglasses (spare)
Jacket (wind breaker)
Underwear (insulated, long johns)
Jacket liner & stuff sack
Neck warmer/long scarf
Pants (leather)
Camp Clothes
Camp shoes/slippers
Socks
Changes of clothes (3-5, rolled up)
Sweat shirt
Down vest
Sweater
Jeans
Swimming suit
Jeans jacket
T-shirts
Laundry soap
Underwear
Layers of clothing (like cross country skiing)
Warm clothes for evenings/nights
Moosehead hat
Washing shorts
Pants
Wind breaker
Shorts
PERSONAL EFFECTS
Backpack (small)
Pencil
Book (paperback)
Post-it's
Camera & film
Prescription medicines
Campground guides
Radios/tape players batteries (extras)
Cash ($25-$30/day/person)
Radios/tape players with mini speakers
Cellular phone
Reading glasses (if you are over 40)
Chapstick
Sewing kit
Checkbook
Shampoo
Cigarettes
Skin moisturizers
Contact lens stuff
Sun glasses
Credit cards (MC/Visa/AmEx/Discover/etc.)
Sun screen/block/lotion
Credit cards (gas)
Tapes
DoD lighter & fluid
Toilet kit
Ear plugs
Toilet paper in sealed plastic bag
Electric razor
Toiletries
Fanny pack
Tooth brush & paste
First aid kit
Toothbrush
Fishing gear
Towel
Grease pencil
Travellers checks
Hand cream
Visine
Hand soap
Wash cloth
Hand/nail brush
Watch
Hi-liter
Weapon (optional)
Insect repellent/bug spray
Weather radio
Knife
Maps & magnifier
Membership cards (AMA, VRC, RPAA, Parks, campgrounds, etc.)
Negotiables
Pen
BIKE PARAPHERNALIA
Anti-fogger (detergent)
Lamp, headlight (spare No. ______)
Bags (large ziplock garbage)
Lamp, instrument panel (spare No. ______)
Bike rain cover
Lamp, taillight (spare No. ______)
Bug rag
Lamp, turn signals (spare No. ______)
Bungee cargo net
Maps
Bungee cords
Padlocks & cables
Chain lock
Radar detector & extra batteries
Chain lock key (extra)
Rain-x
Chain lub
Saddlebag key (extra)
Chain masterlink
Seat rain cover
Chamois (to clean windshield)
Seatcover (sheep skin)
Cloth rags
Shoe laces (leather -- loop at one end for strapping)
Communicators (bike-to-bike radios)
Sidestand plates
Duct tape
Stuff sacks (weather-proof)
Emergency equipment
Tank bag
Fork protectors
Tarp (small reinforced or rain parka) (for gear during storms)
Fuel bottle (backpacking type, 2-quart filled with extra gasoline)
Vehicle registration
Glue (gorilla snot)
Windshield polish
Glue (super)
Helmet face shield/visors (clear, tinted, & extras)
Ignition key (extra)
Insurance certificate (for Canadian travel)
Insurance papers & info
TOOLS
Duct tape (flatten the spool)
Suspension adjustment tool
Electrical system schematic
Tire inflator
Electrical tape
Tire patch/plug kit
Emergency blanket (Space Blanket)
Tire pressure gauge
Emergency warning light (trouble light)
Tire pump (small hand/foot)
Fuses (extra)
Vise grips
Gas-fired soldering iron
Wire & alligator clip
Leatherman Tool
Wrench (spark plug)
Multimeter
Wrenches (combination)
Pliers (channel locks, aka water-pump pliers)
Wrenches (crescent 4" and 10"; good ones)
Pliers (needle nose)
Wrenches (metric Allen)
Pliers (standard)
Screwdrivers (assorted or set)
Socket set
Bottom of Form
The tool that created this list can be found at: http://www.micapeak.com/checklists/
321 Days to "The Ride"
Motorcycle Camping Checklist
Created: 23-Jul-2009
Top of Form
CAMPING/SLEEPING EQUIPMENT
Air mattress
Pillow (travel)
Bivouac bag/sack
Poncho liner & stuff sack
Candle lantern
Sleeping bag
Candle lantern candles (spares)
Sleeping bag waterproof-bag
Compass
Sleeping hood (hat)
Ear plugs
Sleeping pad (insulated)
Feces shovel
Sleeping pad chair/sling
Flashlight
Sven saw
Flashlight batteries (spares)
Tent
Flashlights (magnilites (2))
Tent rain fly
Ground tarps (1 per 2 days - split and trash 1/2 each day)
Tent waterproof-bag
Knife (Buck)
Waterproofing spray and seamlock
Knife sharpener
Nylon cord
COOKING/EATING EQUIPMENT
Bags (plastic large garbage)
Napkins
Bags (plastic small trash, 1 for every 4-5 days)
Paper towels
Can opener
Pepper
Coffee bags
Plate
Coffee creamer
Pot gripper
Coffee mug (insulated)
Pots
Coffee sugar
Salt
Cup & spoon
Soap/scrubber pads
Cup/beer stein
Soy (2-3 small boxes)
Dish towel
Spoon(s)
Energy bars/raisins
Stove
Food
Stove gas (white gas)
Fork
Stove wind screen
Jack knife
Water bottle(s) (2)
Knife
Water carrier (1 gallon)
Match case
Matches (farmers)
Matches (in sealed plastic bag/bottle)
Matches (waterproof)
Riding Gear
Boot sock liners
Pants for riding (Levis)
Boots (canvas mukluks or rubber type)
Rain gear (boots, vest, etc.)
Chaps
Rain suit
Gators
Rain totes & stuff sack
Gauntlets
Sailor hat for riding without a helmet on hot days
Gloves (cold weather)
Shirts (long-sleeve, turtle-neck T-shirts)
Gloves (electric & wire harness)
Ski goggles for riding without a helmet
Gloves (hot weather)
Ski warm-ups
Gloves (rubber)
Socks (cotton)
Gloves (wool liners and dish washing rain gloves)
Socks (neoprene)
Hat (wool)
Socks (wool)
Helmet
Spandex shorts
Jacket
Sunglasses
Jacket (polypro ski)
Sunglasses (spare)
Jacket (wind breaker)
Underwear (insulated, long johns)
Jacket liner & stuff sack
Neck warmer/long scarf
Pants (leather)
Camp Clothes
Camp shoes/slippers
Socks
Changes of clothes (3-5, rolled up)
Sweat shirt
Down vest
Sweater
Jeans
Swimming suit
Jeans jacket
T-shirts
Laundry soap
Underwear
Layers of clothing (like cross country skiing)
Warm clothes for evenings/nights
Moosehead hat
Washing shorts
Pants
Wind breaker
Shorts
PERSONAL EFFECTS
Backpack (small)
Pencil
Book (paperback)
Post-it's
Camera & film
Prescription medicines
Campground guides
Radios/tape players batteries (extras)
Cash ($25-$30/day/person)
Radios/tape players with mini speakers
Cellular phone
Reading glasses (if you are over 40)
Chapstick
Sewing kit
Checkbook
Shampoo
Cigarettes
Skin moisturizers
Contact lens stuff
Sun glasses
Credit cards (MC/Visa/AmEx/Discover/etc.)
Sun screen/block/lotion
Credit cards (gas)
Tapes
DoD lighter & fluid
Toilet kit
Ear plugs
Toilet paper in sealed plastic bag
Electric razor
Toiletries
Fanny pack
Tooth brush & paste
First aid kit
Toothbrush
Fishing gear
Towel
Grease pencil
Travellers checks
Hand cream
Visine
Hand soap
Wash cloth
Hand/nail brush
Watch
Hi-liter
Weapon (optional)
Insect repellent/bug spray
Weather radio
Knife
Maps & magnifier
Membership cards (AMA, VRC, RPAA, Parks, campgrounds, etc.)
Negotiables
Pen
BIKE PARAPHERNALIA
Anti-fogger (detergent)
Lamp, headlight (spare No. ______)
Bags (large ziplock garbage)
Lamp, instrument panel (spare No. ______)
Bike rain cover
Lamp, taillight (spare No. ______)
Bug rag
Lamp, turn signals (spare No. ______)
Bungee cargo net
Maps
Bungee cords
Padlocks & cables
Chain lock
Radar detector & extra batteries
Chain lock key (extra)
Rain-x
Chain lub
Saddlebag key (extra)
Chain masterlink
Seat rain cover
Chamois (to clean windshield)
Seatcover (sheep skin)
Cloth rags
Shoe laces (leather -- loop at one end for strapping)
Communicators (bike-to-bike radios)
Sidestand plates
Duct tape
Stuff sacks (weather-proof)
Emergency equipment
Tank bag
Fork protectors
Tarp (small reinforced or rain parka) (for gear during storms)
Fuel bottle (backpacking type, 2-quart filled with extra gasoline)
Vehicle registration
Glue (gorilla snot)
Windshield polish
Glue (super)
Helmet face shield/visors (clear, tinted, & extras)
Ignition key (extra)
Insurance certificate (for Canadian travel)
Insurance papers & info
TOOLS
Duct tape (flatten the spool)
Suspension adjustment tool
Electrical system schematic
Tire inflator
Electrical tape
Tire patch/plug kit
Emergency blanket (Space Blanket)
Tire pressure gauge
Emergency warning light (trouble light)
Tire pump (small hand/foot)
Fuses (extra)
Vise grips
Gas-fired soldering iron
Wire & alligator clip
Leatherman Tool
Wrench (spark plug)
Multimeter
Wrenches (combination)
Pliers (channel locks, aka water-pump pliers)
Wrenches (crescent 4" and 10"; good ones)
Pliers (needle nose)
Wrenches (metric Allen)
Pliers (standard)
Screwdrivers (assorted or set)
Socket set
Bottom of Form
The tool that created this list can be found at: http://www.micapeak.com/checklists/
321 Days to "The Ride"
Sunday, August 16, 2009
The crew is now all present and accounted for
Looks like Ralph had success in getting logged on so we're all here. Feel free to write what you want, when you want to. My current focus is on gathering the gear I need for the ride. Once that is done I'll be looking to see what we want to do about a route out there and a route back. I've pretty much settled on following Rt 2 out of the U.P. of Michigan out to Glacier National Park and then into Coeur d' Alene, Idaho before crossing into Washington and down to the Seattle area to meet up with Don Gentry and the guys from the Silent Service Motorcycle Club. However, the route is subject to change once the rest of you have a look and determine what you want to see. I know Bob is interested in mountain lions and bears. We should get some good sightseeing, along the way and while we're out there. Each of us should also be thinking about our "must see places". For me it's Glacier National Park and Mt. Rushmore (on the way back) and a side trip into Nebraska so I can add state #49 to my list of states I've been in. But, I'm sure there will be more that all of us want to see and the list of things to see and do isn't going to be dictated by me, unless I think I can get away with it.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Helmetcam
I'm not recommending rushing out and buying one of these things, but poking around on the 'net reveals that a pretty versatile helmetcam system can be had for not a lot of bucks.
actually, cameras can be mounted just about anywhere, with a slender cable runing to a recorder stashed in a saddlebag, or wherever.
If we want to do a trip DVD, something like this could add variety and transition footage.
the video at the link is pretty cool, btw.
http://www.pashnit.com/more/cameramount.htm
Why?
When Fred began relating his dream of riding his Harley literally into the sunset, my first thought was that it was a really cool idea. My second was that he would become hopelessly lost someplace around Flint, Michigan AND beings as how I come from a family that generated Mountain Men (really) I figured I had better be with him because I knew I could at least find the U.P. of Michigan. Past that we will be in the hands of St's. Garmin & Google.
After agreeing to go with him, it suddenly occurred to me that my trusty Suzuki 250 cc Marauder was probably not going to make the whole trip, so now I had to embark on a genuinely dangerous assignment - how to get my wife, Darlene (who does NOT share my love for motorcycles) to agree that what I needed was a bigger bike. That turned out to be much easier than I thought it would, she simply said "sell your Corvette & you can buy a new motorcycle." It took a while but I am now the proud owner of an '06 Suzuki Boulevard. Beautiful bike, metallic pearl with phantom flames. If it had a rack for my Bagpipes, it would be perfect.
Well I have my bike, a sleeping bag, a tent and $1.48, let's go!
After agreeing to go with him, it suddenly occurred to me that my trusty Suzuki 250 cc Marauder was probably not going to make the whole trip, so now I had to embark on a genuinely dangerous assignment - how to get my wife, Darlene (who does NOT share my love for motorcycles) to agree that what I needed was a bigger bike. That turned out to be much easier than I thought it would, she simply said "sell your Corvette & you can buy a new motorcycle." It took a while but I am now the proud owner of an '06 Suzuki Boulevard. Beautiful bike, metallic pearl with phantom flames. If it had a rack for my Bagpipes, it would be perfect.
Well I have my bike, a sleeping bag, a tent and $1.48, let's go!
Gearing up for the ride
A lot of planning is required to make a trip that will cover over 5,000 miles on a motorcycle. Everything I have learned, to date, is that less is best. My submarine and Marine Corps training will hopefully help me make those critical decisions about what to take and what to leave home. The first step, however is to get the proper luggage to fit on the bike. I've decided to go with a Nelson-Rigg detachable luggage set rather than the traditional Harley-Davidson "Tour-Pak" common on touring bikes like mine. This bag even comes with a solar panel so I'll be able to re-charge things like my cell phone, GPS System (that decision and discussion will come later) and even McManus' laptop computer. This bag, along with the "dreaded" tent and a sleeping bag is all that I will be taking. Ralph and his "Silverado" will have to haul the bagpipes if I decide to take them along for the ride. The bag should arrive this week and I know I will spend countless hours packing and re-packing it with the necessary and the frivolous until I get it just right. I think I'm going to quickly learn the physics of weight and balance. I wonder if the book that Bob posted covers those topics?
Friday, August 14, 2009
QUERY
Okay, do I need to brush up on my reading before the convoy gets underway?
Because, I have to say, before the email exchange that brought me into this conspiracy, the notion of a cross-country motorcycle trip possibly involving me had never entered my little pea brain.
And I also have to confess to some lingering doubts, given the loose talk about camping where bears and mountain lions hang out, and no five-star hotels.
Not that I'm any less tough than you biker guys, of course.
Well, actually, I probably am. But maybe a little smarter, too. Despite the slanderous allegations of endemic dimness among engineering types, you'll notice that the two former diesel-dude snipes will be riding in the cab of the Silverado while you other fellows will be outside picking bugs out of your nostrils.
Just sayin', you know?
Here's the thing, though -- I'm an East Coast guy, born and bred, and I've never really been further west than the Hudson River. Not for any length of time anyway.
And I've lost count of the number of times I've encountered the assertion -- in print or otherwise -- that one cannot possibly understand or appreciate America until one comes to terms with it vastness.
Big land, big ideas.
I want to see it.
I'll be bringing a well-stocked camera bag, a pretty capable videocam and a DVD-burning laptop -- so keep in mind, gentlemen, that there *will* be a record.
Bottom line: I'm truly looking forward to this. And I'm grateful for the invite.
The participants
Jim Mulanix (L) is a Marine Corps Veteran of 1st Amtracs (Amphibious Tractors). Fred Gardner (R) is a Navy Veteran with service in submarines and the USMC. As a Navy Corpsman (medic) Fred served with the 1st Marine Division in Viet Nam in 1966-67. Jim will be writing his own story later.
One night over "adult beverages" (isn't this how many adventures begin?), I shared with Jim my dream of one day owning a Harley Davidson motorcycle and riding it across the country to the west coast. He thought that was pretty cool and began to think that maybe he would like to go along for the adventure; and it just started growing from there.
331 days until the ride starts
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Genesis of the ride
Riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle across the country has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. It probably started when I was a teenager as I watched a lot of my friends get into motorcycling and saw how much they enjoyed it. I got my first motorcycle in 1965, actually it belonged to a friend of mine, a Triumph Bonneville 650 cc twin, and I learned the joys of riding around the countryside of New England. Once that happened the dream of riding across the United States took root and has been growing stronger with each passing year.
My nephew made a similar ride about 10 years ago and when he showed me the photos and we talked about the trip I knew I had to save my money, get a bike and make the trip. At my age (64) there won't be too many more opportunities to do it.
So, the bike has been purchased (2009 Harley Davidson FLHT Electra Glide Standard); the training and licensing have been completed and long distance riding for practice and endurance have begun.
The trip is scheduled to begin on July 4, 2010.
The scheduled riders are:
Fred (Doc) Gardner (Navy Corpsman - Submarines and Marines; Viet Nam Veteran)
Jim Mulanix (Marine Corps Veteran - Amtracks)
Ralph Luther (Submarine Veteran - A-Ganger) - driving the chase/support vehicle
Bob McManus (Submarine Veteran - Machinist Mate/Engineman) - chase/support vehicle, part time passenger on the Harley and erstwhile "chronicler of the trip" we'll appoint him the "blogmaster" since he is the professional writer
Ray Frase (U.S. Army; 101st Airborne; Viet Nam Veteran)
Potential riders:
Bill (Billy Bob) Lary (Submarine Veteran- Torpedoman/Missile Tech)
Roy Brewer (Air Force Veteran - Viet Nam Veteran - Air Crew Chief)
Future posts will outline the planning; the gear and some photos of the practice rides we've done to prepare ourselves for the adventure of a lifetime. Yes; this is our "Bucket List" and any resemblance to the movie "Wild Hogs" is coincidental.
Most of what will be published is true but since we're all veterans we are capable of embellishing the stories related here. So, if it starts out with TINS, then view it with a healthy dose of skepticism
My nephew made a similar ride about 10 years ago and when he showed me the photos and we talked about the trip I knew I had to save my money, get a bike and make the trip. At my age (64) there won't be too many more opportunities to do it.
So, the bike has been purchased (2009 Harley Davidson FLHT Electra Glide Standard); the training and licensing have been completed and long distance riding for practice and endurance have begun.
The trip is scheduled to begin on July 4, 2010.
The scheduled riders are:
Fred (Doc) Gardner (Navy Corpsman - Submarines and Marines; Viet Nam Veteran)
Jim Mulanix (Marine Corps Veteran - Amtracks)
Ralph Luther (Submarine Veteran - A-Ganger) - driving the chase/support vehicle
Bob McManus (Submarine Veteran - Machinist Mate/Engineman) - chase/support vehicle, part time passenger on the Harley and erstwhile "chronicler of the trip" we'll appoint him the "blogmaster" since he is the professional writer
Ray Frase (U.S. Army; 101st Airborne; Viet Nam Veteran)
Potential riders:
Bill (Billy Bob) Lary (Submarine Veteran- Torpedoman/Missile Tech)
Roy Brewer (Air Force Veteran - Viet Nam Veteran - Air Crew Chief)
Future posts will outline the planning; the gear and some photos of the practice rides we've done to prepare ourselves for the adventure of a lifetime. Yes; this is our "Bucket List" and any resemblance to the movie "Wild Hogs" is coincidental.
Most of what will be published is true but since we're all veterans we are capable of embellishing the stories related here. So, if it starts out with TINS, then view it with a healthy dose of skepticism
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