Date Change!!!

OK, It is official… The cruise to the coast is moving to the original timeframe.

We are looking at the second week in September.

The dates are:

September 12-21

We will set out Saturday Morning the 13 and headed back to our homes on or about Sunday the 21^st.

This has been a very easy decision because it made the trip easier for most all of you.

 The number of participants has also changed.

That is OK!

It looks like a firm 7 with Jordan still on the fence for all the right reasons.

That also means that the support vehicle will be smaller and less expensive.

I will organize a meeting soon so we can look at what research has already been done and how that may change because of the date change.

I have not found any real negatives to the move in dates.

Remember, this was the timeframe that was slated all along!

The weather will not be as hot, the fall colors could already be starting in the mountains, we may hit snow.

Wait…I did not say that!

( actually we could but only in the first two days of the ride, start praying…)

 Anyway, thanks for all of the support while deliberating this decision.

I am only depressed because the trip is not 7 months away anymore!

We will talk.

If these specific dates are a problem for any of you, please let me know.

We could take the first week but a few folks were leaning towards this week , not the first.

 

All the best, my friends.

Merry Christmas

 

213 more days!

Hey Guys,

June 14^th is getting closer and I gotta ask, Are you defiantly in?

 

I have to start to firm up some plans and numbers.

It has now become important to get an accurate count.
From this point, if you are in, we will be counting on you.
That decision will influence all the other riders.
Your involvement will influence the trip and in some cases , profoundly.

I know I wrote everyone about a month ago to encourage you to give this trip serious thought.

I want each of you along but I will understand that life could be tugging on you in a different direction.
That is O.K.!
Really!!
But in all fairness, please be honest about your intentions so I can keep moving forward.

As time gets closer, the excitement is on the rise!

Jimmy and I have been on a few nice rides, Gary and Ben are getting time in the seat, Jay keeps all three of his wheels moving and Tim and I enjoyed a few great rides this summer.

Once all the final participants have chimed in, we will schedule another meeting.

We still need some final decisions…
Who is renting?
What are you renting?
Are you shipping your bike to Denver?
Are you driving the bike out?
Your get the idea.

Please give those ideas some serious thought.

It is decision time!
I know I only gave you 2 ½ years to think about it.
I’m not trying to rush you,,,, but??????

Anyway, please let me know ASAP about your final decision.

Kick stands up at 8am June 15^th, 2014

The time is on us to commit.

Well there is not much time left in this riding season to get that much needed “ time in the seat”.
I know, I know, I keep preaching it but you don’t realize the importance until you ride the entire day and you are trashed.
Remember, we will be riding most of the day, for days at a time.
Yes there will be rest times but don’t underestimate the need for experience, conditioning and endurance.
There is NO SUBSTITUTAION for the experience you gain with that time.

 and what a perfect lead in to talk about conditioning.

Let’s paint a quick picture…
It is 100 degrees, the wind is blowing at 70 miles per hour hitting you in the face and chest and you are holding onto a 700lb steel bull that wants to throw you off.
Can you do that for 5 or 6 hours a day for 7 to 10 days?
O.K. maybe that is a bit extreme but not far from the facts.
Please take the time to think about where you are with your personal conditioning.
It is going to be very important that you be in good condition so you can enjoy the event.
It will break my heart to leave you on the side of the road and ride on.
I will do it, it will just break my heart.
It is time to start exercising.
I don’t think this is an option.
Please take this seriously.
You need to prepare for the worst and that way nothing that nature will throw at us will keep you down.
Your body is the one thing that could cause this dream to collapse around you.
I started months ago and feel really good but still want to be in better condition, yet!
Understand, We will most likely not leave you on the side of the road, we will have the trailer that we can strap your bike and broken carcass to for the rest of the ride.
(you won’t be stinking up the bus with your weak, busted ass)

 

Money…

Next fun topic.

I hope you have taken my advice and you have been squirreling away the funds to make this happen.

We are getting very close to the final call.
I will need to know, by the end of October, who has planned and is, without a doubt , in.
Now, I understand that things will happen between now and our departure but we need to start moving forward with deposits, plane tickets, transport arrangements, provisions and accurate planning.
Each one of us will have a share in many of the items needed for the trip.
Even the press corps that will be in the bus will be a factor in each of the other participants cost.
I want a solid number of participants by October 31, 2013 so I can get solid numbers to each of you.
I don’t want to appear cold or hard about the money thing but as of November 1, you will have some financial commitment to this venture.
The time is on us.
I warned you that it would come fast.

It is here.

I still can’t wrap my hands around , what we are about to undertake.

I am overwhelmed by the scale of the adventure.
I am humbled by those that want to be a part of this.
I realize that all of us have things going on and all of us have things that we could be doing with this time.
Time is the one commodity that is both finite and priceless.
I realize that this is something that each of us, for whatever your personal reasons, will walk away with a once in a lifetime experience.
I can’t wait to tell my grandkids that this old “ has-been” went on a motorcycle ride through the Rocky Mountains, the deserts of Arizona, and one of the most beautiful coast lines in the world.

How FREAKING COOL IS THAT ?!?!?!?

Do you get this yet?

Can you relate?

Has it sunk in?

For me it is not about the ride as much as it is about the company.

I know I have said it before but you all are some of the most important men in my life.
I can’t even express how much it means to me, that you are willing to be a part of this dream.

 Chris

Planning Meeting March 2013

 

First of all, Thanks to those of you who were able to make it last evening.
We had all but three of us there and got a lot done.
I think some of the most important items are now behind us.
Here is what we walked away with...

We have a route.
We have a date.
We have a better feel for the cost.

 

Route:

 

I will be posting the complete details of the route soon.

I will be getting some maps together to recap the decisions of last night.

 

The Date:

 

June 14th, 2014 thru June 22nd.

Arriving in Denver on the 13th ready to ride on the morning of the 14th.

 

The Cost:

 

Our original estimate of 3,000 is going to be very close.

We have one thing that we did not count on and that is the fact that we may have a full sized Coach and a driver to follow as a support vehicle.

This will give us the ability and flexibility to sleep where ever and when ever we want.

Our Kitchen, medical support , rolling repair shop, garage, bunk house, and bathroom with shower will be with us the entire time!

We are still in need of some of the details surrounding this blessing.

But at first glance, all this will be available , WITHOUT blowing the original budget!!!

 

 

 

A few tasks were assigned last evening.

 

Chris is continuing the research on rentals. One way, round trip, bikes and so on. I will be calling on a few of the dealers to negotiate the terms. I have not found one that I am really comfortable with...yet.

Gary was asked to get accurate details surrounding the coach. Cost, Availability ...

 

David T-W was asked to start to think about the supplies that will be needed on a personal level and on the community level in the Bus and the approx. cost.

Tim was asked to review the list of items that we may need that are specific to tools, and gear for the trip and make some recommendations on things we should have.

Jay was tasked to look at the different attractions and determine what ones may require advanced reservations and the associated cost to visit them. Some of the sites and events may include:

• The Grand Canyon - south rim
• Mesa Verde National Park
• Hoover Dam
• Celine Dionne's show in Vegas for Tim
• The rates at the chicken ranch for Dave W.
• Sequoia National Forest
• Alcatraz

Jimmy was asked to do the research and find campsites on the route. It may not be a bad idea to look at supply places and we should probably be looking into Motorcycle dealers too. Just in case we need something on the way.

Phil is going to start to price airfare :

• Baltimore to Denver.
• Manchester NH to Baltimore
• Manchester NH to Denver
• San Fran to Baltimore
• San Fran to Denver
• San Fran to Manchester NH
  Advantages of traveling on Thursday eve , times blablabla...

There will be other things that we will need to do, but for now...this is a great start.

Between David T-W and Jordan T-W, we will have a Nationally recognized award winning journalist with capable photographer/video guy chronicling the trip for the paperback and PBS special.
(paperback 19.95 DVD 24.95 plus shipping)

 

This is going to be a blast.

Glad you will be along for the ride.

 

 

 

 

WHAT WILL WE NEED??

So there is no way to predict all the things that YOU may want to have on the trip.
There will be a entirly different list of the community items we will need, but here is a start...

CTTC Checklist
Created: 17-Mar-2013

Motorcycle stuff
	Bike cover		Saddlebags
	Boots & socks		Scarf and/or CoolTie
	Bungee cords		Spare bulbs
	Cargo net		Spare fuses
	Chain oil/wax		Spare key(s)
	Earplugs		Tankbag
	Epoxy		Tire patch kit
	Gloves & spares		Toolkit
	Helmets		Totes
	Hose clamps		Windshield cleaner
	Jackets
	Leatherman tool
	Leathers/Aerostich
	Lock/security stuff
	Oil
	Rags/towels
	Rain gloves
	Raingear

Personal Stuff
	Antihistamines		Shampoo
	Brush		Shaving kit
	Casual clothes (non-riding)		Soap
	Chapstick		Sun tan lotion
	Comb		Sunglasses
	Contact lenses & stuff		Toothbrush & toothpaste
	Dental floss		Towel(s)
	Deodorant
	Ear plugs
	Epipen
	Fanny pack or backpack
	Medications
	Reading glasses

Clothing
	Hat/sunvisor		Swim suit
	Jeans		T-shirts
	Shirts		Underwear
	Shorts
	Socks
	Sweater(s)
	Sweatshirt(s)

Information
	Binoculars		Paper & pencil/pen
	Book(s)		Passport/ID
	Camera & accessories		Registration papers
	Cellphone		Tape/CD/MP3 player
	Driver's License		Tickets/passes
	GPS		Travel guide(s)
	Insurance (proof of)
	Laptop computer
	Maps
	Membership cards (AAA, etc.)

Misc.
	Bug repellent		Rubber bands
	Cable ties		Sewing kit
	Cash and/or traveler's checks		Snake bite kit
	Credit card(s)		Space blanket
	Duct tape		Sunscreen
	Extra batteries		Superglue
	First aid kit
	Flashlight
	Freezer bags (for packing)
	Ibuprofen/Tylenol

Cooking stuff
	Camp stove & fuel		Food
	Can opener		Garbage/trash bags
	Coffee making stuff		Knife/fork/spoons
	Condiments		Paper towels
	Cooking pots/pans		Water bottle(s)
	Corkscrew
	Cup(s)
	Dishsoap & pad
	Dishtowel
	Drinks

Foodstuffs
	Coffee		Sugar & creamer
	Salt & pepper

This is where I found the list, you may want to customize your own.
http://micapeak.com/checklists/mclist.html

I also found a great article on packing and trips
http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/streetsurvival/motorcycle_packing_tips/viewall.html

Eagle Rider...probably not.

Eagle Rider is one of the most popular and largest bike rental companies around.

This was one of our best options.

They had a lot of bikes to pick from and we could do a one way rental...but all that glitters is not gold.

Below is the info page from Eagle Rider.

This might be a tough sell.

I took the liberty of highlighting the points that I see that may create an issue for us.

I need your thoughts...

Rental Terms and ConditionsRequirements for a Motorcycle Rental
You must be at least 21 years old
You must have a valid motorcycle class driver's license
You must have a major credit card

What is Included in the Rental Rate
Unlimited miles (select models) and no hourly charges
Use of vehicle for a 24 hour period.
Safety Equipment.

Customer Orientation
Every client will receive orientation to the motorcycle. The client orientation will cover all aspects of safe motorcycle operation, the clients' maintenance responsibilities, local and state laws.

Storage
EagleRider will provide storage for client luggage, airline tickets, and other valuables free of charge, however at clients' risk.

Fuel
Fuel costs are client's responsibility. EagleRider claims no responsibility for motorcycle fuel consumption and mileage. You may prepay for fuel refill. If prepaid fuel is not purchased and vehicle needs refueling, $35 charge will be added.

Helmets (Included in Daily Rental Rate)
Helmets are provided with all motorcycle rentals and all tours. Clients are encouraged to bring their own helmets for comfort and style. In addition, helmets may be purchased at many of EagleRider rental stations. Helmets are required by law in most locations.

Additional Drivers
1 additional driver is permitted at no extra charge. The minimum age for an additional driver is 21 and a valid motorcycle license is required.

Maintenance Responsibility
The customer is responsible for checking engine oil levels at each refueling and reporting mechanical failures immediately. Instructions and procedures for maintenance expense reimbursement are provided at pick-up. Customers may be held responsible for mechanical damage due to negligence in motorcycle operation or failure to provide normal maintenance.
Motorcycle Substitution
EagleRider reserves the right to substitute the motorcycle confirmed to rental client. Should EagleRider not be able to provide confirmed motorcycle a similar or better model will be provided to the client. This constitutes the maximum liability of EagleRider.

Security Deposit
A security deposit of $1000 - $3000 will be taken at pick-up (Authorization Only). Security deposit must be processed via valid credit card.

Restrictions
Violation of listed restrictions voids all VIP Theft & Damage Waivers and client will be held liable for damages. Road Restriction: Rental street motorcycles are not allowed on gravel roads, beaches, logging or other non-public roads. Mexico Restriction: Clients cannot enter Mexico on a USA bike without written authorization or accompanied by an EagleRider Guide. Death Valley WARNING: Entering Death Valley during the months of June & August is dangerous and not recommended.

Return Policy
A rental day is 24 hours. A fee of $25/hour may apply for vehicles returned late.

Refund Policy
All confirmed rental reservations are non-refundable, unless specified under that of the Reservation Cancellation Protection guidelines (see below). No refunds on early returns.

Payment Methods
EagleRider Harley Rentals accepts the following methods of payment: Cash, Travelers Cheques, VISA, Master Card, AMEX, Discover, Diners Club, and JCB. Travelers Cheques are not accepted for security deposit.

Rallies and Rally Surcharges
All rentals during event/rally dates are subject to a $45 per day surcharge and may reqiure a minimum days rental period.

Enviromental Surcharge
The Enviromental surcharge is 5.5% for all reservations.

Booking Terms
Reservation must be paid in full to guarantee rate and rental date.
Reservations are non-refundable.
Discount rates are subject to blackout dates and availability.
All rental models and rates vary by location and season.


Insurance and Protection PlansReservation Cancellation Protection (RCP) By purchasing Reservation Cancellation Protection (RCP), you’re entitled to cancel your reservation and receive a refund for the following cases: 1. Sudden severe medical condition suffered by customer that prevents travel (certified medical doctor’s notice is required). 2. Pregnancy of customer (Doctor’s notice is required). 3.Death of customer, or immediate family member of customer (Spouse, Child, Brother,Sister, or Parent). 4. Unexpected draft or deployment of customer to armed forces(verification required. Your claim must be received by EagleRider 72 hours before the scheduled pickup time.

Insurance Policies and Surcharges
State mandatory liability insurance is included in your rental. Please check with your rental station which are the state requirements. You are not insured for Damage or Theft. EagleRider offers several options from upgrading your Liability or Damage Waiver. Please carefully check with the insurance provider. Because motorcycle rentals are considered an exotic rental most credit cards and insurance do not transfer the same way as they do with normal car rentals. PLEASE always check your credit company or insurance company for coverage.

Supplemental Liability Insurance – $1M
Insurance protects renter against claims made by a third party for bodily injury and/or property damage sustained as a result of an accident. Renter supplemental Liability Insurance Benefit is $1,000,000.

Supplemental Liability Insurance – $300k
Insurance protects renter against claims made by a third party for bodily injury and/or property damage sustained as a result of an accident. Renter supplemental Liability Insurance Benefit is $300,000.

Enhanced Vip Zero Theft & Damage Waiver
Available for 3+ day rentals and select locations only
Damage: Renter pays no deductible / occurrence. Theft: Renter pays up to $1000 deductible/ occurrence. Breakdown: Renter is provided up $100/day for a replacement rental and refund of daily rate. Flat Tire Coverage: Covers tire repair and labor. Towing is covered up to $100 per occurrence.

Enhanced VIP Theft & Damage Waiver
Theft or Damage: Renter pays up to $1000 deductible / occurrence.
Breakdown: Renter is provided up to $75/day for a replacement rental and refund of daily rate.
Flat Tire Coverage: Covers tire repair and labor. TOWING IS NOT COVERED.

VIP Theft & Damage Waiver
Theft or Damage: Renter pays up to $2000 deductible / occurrence.
Breakdown: Renter is up to $35/day for a replacement rental and refund of daily rate.
Flat tire coverage is not included. TOWING IS NOT COVERED.

Riding in Rain

Hey Guys,
I found a great article on rain riding.

Hate to say it but...( wait for it...) get some time in a wet seat!
The only way to gain the confidence that you will need is to ride in the rain.
Believe me, it is no fun cleaning your bike after that kinda ride but it is even less fun trying to polish out scratches in your paint or chrome , after you lay your bike down in the rain.
Tim and I have ridden in some real crap and "yes" I was scared. remember...I do not have a windshield and at the time, no face shield on my helmet.
The right gear makes you safer.

That especially goes for rain gear.
Rain gear starts with a good waterproof or resistant jacket/coat.
Chaps or a pair of rain pants are a big help too,
The same goes for gloves. Keep your hands dry so they don't stiffen and fail to work well when you need them to.
Remember that the riding temperature is very different than the air temp.
Temperatures feel even worse once you are wet.

                             I have a good pair of waterproof boots.
 If yours are not waterproof, there are plenty of boot covers that will be very effective at keeping your feet dry.
Now...your helmet and face protection: No windshield, no face shield and rain equals a very un enjoyable ride and an un safe ride.

There were times, while riding home from Virginia Beach when I thought the raindrops were ice balls. The sting on my face was painful. I was a goof to let those conditions come together. It was the perfect storm ( no pun intended) we drove from Waldorf to home, approx. 2 hours in heavy rain and all the fun of the trip was lost because I did not properly prepare. Looking back, I was very lucky. I was inexperienced and found myself with no choice but to continue toward home.

Tim, on the other hand, was golden. His bike is better set for these conditions. Good Windshield, good protection and most of all ( what am I about to say?) he had experience. TIME IN THE SEAT!!!!


Here are some tips I found in Sound Rider.

 

 Rain Riding

 

 

Here is a great way to select rain gear.

I'll Take Mine Straight Up and Slow Please

Most riders get used to riding in the rain by accident. They takeoff on an all day ride when the sun is shinning and by afternoon they realize they're going to get their first taste of wet asphalt, like it or not. Those who accept it soon find themselves venturing back into the rain, sometimes at their own will.

Many never ride in the rain the first year they're up on two wheels. They're timid about it the second year, feeling more confident by the third and by the forth year they're asking the question - "What Rain?"

So suppose you're thinking about getting on a wet road for the first time, or perhaps you've done it a few times, or perhaps you do it so much you're not thinking about what the hazards are.

Here's a list of critical rain hazards I like to watch for and look for even after 31 years of riding.

Painted Lines - Crosswalks can be unsafe for motorcyclists, particularly if you're turning right or left and crossing the lines at an angle. Slow down more than usual and make the turn straight up, rather than in a lean.

Ditto for diamonds in the HOV lanes. Very nasty when you lean into one, especially on the freeway. The diamond is shaped so you just slide across it and continue to slide along it.

Any painted line is a hazard. Until the DOT addresses the issue and comes up with a tackier texture you're the one in control of your destiny.

Surface Textures - Many commercial and residential parking areas are paved with very slick concrete surfaces. Your wet entry into the local mall or condo complex can put you on the ground in a second. Again, ride slow and straight up and don't let the concrete bite you.

Rubber - If you thought you might save some money by buying long lasting tires, think again. Such tires are typically not as tacky and have less traction when the rain comes out. Next time you change tires look for the tackiest one that will take care of you better during your northwest riding adventures.

How about that rubber they use around railroad tracks to decrease the sound as cars drive over them? Forget those little circles on the surface, these provide zero traction to you as you cross. Slow and straight up.

Steel - Manhole covers are enemy number one and railroad tracks rank a close second. Making a turn over the surface of them sets you up for trouble. Avoid such, or keep the bike straight up and cross over it slowly.

Railroad tracks have a way of popping up on you just after a turn and you may still be into a lean when you reach them. Look for the crossing signs ahead of time, slow down and stay straight up when crossing.

Grated bridge crossings and metal plates are a nasty encounter in the rain. Look at where you want to ride, take it slow and don't try any fancy dancing, particularly a lane change.

Water - Puddles/Pot Holes - It only takes once to know how this one feels. You cruise through a puddle and after it's too late you realize you just went into a pot hole that wants to suck you into the underworld more painfully than Satan himself beating you down with a stick. Avoid puddles if you can. Use caution and predict the possibility ahead of time. Recovery from this rude awakening is not always easy. Pull over and take a few minutes of rest if you need to gather your wits. In 1997 the Seattle Times reported that the DOT only had enough funds to patch 60% of the potholes created in the state that wet winter.

Oil - It's everywhere and very illusive. Those little red and blue rainbows on the ground mean danger. Ride slow and straight up. As per the DOL's motorcycle safety manual, if you're caught in the first rain following a few dry days remember the roads are covered with lots of oil and dirt that will be lifted from the surface in the first 30-60 minutes of a new rain. Take a coffee break if you can.

Ride Safe,

Not that far off

Hey Guys, The trip is just over a year away.
Gary is getting closer...
This is his new ride. SWEET!

Are you ready?
Have you been saving?
Do you have a plan to acquire the gear needed between now and the trip?
Cash?

You know I am a planner. You need to plan.
If you have not done it yet, take some time to search " long motorcycle rides" on the Internet.
Plan to get one item a month so you are not trying to buy it all at once. spread out the expense.

I have done some looking around and I will start to post some of the info that I have found.
This was a good article that I found in Motorcycle Cruiser.
 

Fighting Fatigue on Long Motorcycle Rides

Motorcycling is more physically demanding that driving a car and exposes you to the environment, which can lead to fatigue. To avoid becoming tired on long motorcycle rides, you need to get adequate rest, plan and prepare, consume the right food and drink,

From the February, 2009 issue of Motorcycle Cruiser

Experts say that fatigue contributes to between a fifth and a sixth of all car accidents. That may not be true in motorcycle accidents across the board, but fatigue is definitely an issue for riders on trips of three days or more. It's something that you need to consider and prepare for. If you are riding with other people, it is an issue that you should discuss and accommodate as you plan your trip. Different riders will have different requirements for rest, and if the trip is to be a safe one, all members of the group should be willing to accommodate each other. Before you head out on the highway looking for adventure, coniser a few steps that you can take and plans you can make to avoid having one of your adventures involve falling asleep on your motorcycle. Rest: Adequate sleep can be a bit hard to come by before and during a multi-day ride. I am always thinking of things I want to do or remember to bring as I try to get to sleep on the night before I depart. I also have trouble getting to sleep while traveling. Many people also have trouble getting a full night's sleep as they get older. If I combine that with early departures, I quickly have a sleep deficit. For that reason, I like to plan to allow myself to sleep late every two or three days, setting no departure time. Don't use alcohol as a sleep aid; it actually tends to reduce both the quantity and quality of sleep. You might think that you can't fall asleep on a motorcycle, but I have known riders who simply fell asleep while riding, waking up as they bounced through a ditch — or in the hospital. Riders who experienced these sorts of adventures often said they didn't even realize they were tired. Experts say that you'll have "tired times" during every 12-hour cycle, most often between 3:00 and 5:00 (a.m. and p.m., you local time). You may want to plan to arrive by that point or stop for an early dinner. If you can or need to, take a day off just to relax and catch up on your sleep. Physical Preparation: Unless you ride your motorcycle almost every day or take rides of three hours or more almost every weekend, you may not be completely adapted to your bike. After a full day or two of riding, you will become acutely aware of muscles that you are using full-time to ride. You may be able to overcome some of this discomfort by properly setting up your bike and fitting components, such as a good aftermarket saddle, that make it more comfortable. However, you also need to give your body a chance to adapt. Taking breaks every hour or two, especially during the first few days of a long ride, will help this adjustment. Calm: Extended exposure to wind and sun dehydrates and fatigues you much more than your routine two-hour weekend jaunt. Riding in a tanktop and open-face helmet may seem like the best way to deal with the heat, but will actually wear you out and heat you up much faster than if you wear a vented or mesh jacket and a helmet that protects your face from the wind. Perspiration gets a chance to stay on and cool your skin if the wind flow is reduced but not eliminated. You will sharply reduce sunburn and windburn and their fatiguing effects by covering yourself fully. A windshield also reduces the amount of wind that's tearing at you but leaves enough to cool you. Quiet: Wind noise (and exhaust noise if you have loud pipes) will not only permanently damage your hearing, it will fatigue you quickly. Both noise sources are at their worst if you don't wear a helmet, but even a full-face helmet that seals your ears well won't attenuate these noise sources sufficiently on an extended ride, so you should wear earplugs as well. If nothing else, you'll appreciate them when you try to go to sleep at night and the roaring in your ears isn't as loud. A windshield can also reduce wind noise. Clear: Vision clarity can be an issue on extended rides too. About 15 years ago we did a comparison test where one bike had significant distortion in the top of its windshield. Several riders said riding it made them feel disoriented or tired or gave them headaches. If your windshield creates this problem, or if you have a faceshield or sunglasses that are optically imperfect, you should find a replacement or eliminate the problem, perhaps by trimming the top of your windshield. If your vision has changed so that your prescription is no longer adequate, update it before you leave. Caffeine and Alcohol: A coffee or cola can briefly boost your alertness, but isn't a substitute for adequate rest. Having a beer before or during a ride is a bad idea for many reasons, but especially if you are slightly tired or fatigued. Discouraging your riding companions from having one also does both of you a favor. Good Habits: Those boring admonitions about diet and exercise also apply to fighting fatigue. They increase your energy level, which makes you stronger and more alert. Of course, drinking adequate water is important too, especially considering that you are being dehydrated more rapidly because of your exposure to the wind. I don't hold with the theory that you aren't drinking enough if you don't have to urinate every 30 minutes though. Fighting fatigue provides benefits that go beyond safety. If you are alert and refreshed, the ride itself is more enjoyable, and you'll get more out of the sights and experiences that you came to enjoy.

Before You Roll - Motorcycle Touring - Tips

Road Loading

From the February, 2009 issue of Motorcycle Cruiser

So you've nailed down a destination, and now you're chompin' at the bit. Throw a few Jockey shorts in the backpack and off you go, right? Not so fast-any overnight trip requires a bit more forethought. And if you're headed on an extended tour on two wheels, remember, "less is more." Even if your week-long odyssey is on a full-blown touring bike, you'll have to make every inch of cargo space count (especially if there are two of you). That ice bucket will start looking pretty dumb after Mile Marker 3. We talked with Tom Mehren, author of the new book Pack Light, Pack Right! (available at www.mm411.com). Mehren's also a proponent of the less-is-more theory. Following are his main packing points:Heavy On The BottomStuff heavy gear closest to where the bag will be mounted on the bike. I like to use a three bag system on extended trips: one big sack for the large stuff, a medium bag for necessities and a smaller one for traveling fast and loose. (This one comes in handy off the bike.) The big bag should be weather- proof, durable and flexible enough to accommodate different loads on different bikes. Attachment points, stiffeners or frames help the cause too. The medium-sized bag should essentially be a stuffable, soft bag that can be rolled up, and I usually grab a backpack for light, off-bike excursions. Pack Small For clothes, two shirts, two pants, two pairs of socks and underwear, one pair of shoes (not including riding boots) and two pairs of gloves are all you need. Group smaller items into small, plastic freezer bags. Clothing gets rolled up and put into a mesh bag. Store these separate bags vertically, so they're easier to access. Dump Your Cotton Cotton is bad-you get so much more space out of your luggage if you stock up on synthetics instead. A laundromat is usually easy to find, and washable garments made of Coolmax can dry in a few hours. Multitask Pack items that have multiple purposes to minimize space. A Leatherman tool can handle three or four chores, while a waterproof dry bag can be used for laundry, storage on the bike or a beer cooler at the campground. Spread The Load First Aid kits-only one rider in the group needs to carry one. Same with other large items-one person can stow the pump, the other a set of jumpers and so on. And don't buy cheap stuff! Once you purchase quality gear, you should be done shopping for years. It's worth it in the long run. Touring Resources Even modern-day Magellans need some sort of third-party support. The following tools should help you fine-tune your target. Harley-Davidson Great Roads And Ride Planner Harley's Web site is a wealth of info. On www.harley-davidson.com, under the "Experience" tab, you'll find great online tools for riders. The "Great Roads" section is chock-full of destinations and roads (currently 52) that are rated for ride and scenic value. Click-and-drag maps allow you to view the lay of the land and access lodging info. Mad Maps If you prefer hard copies of a certain region, check out the Mad Maps series. These foldable, weather-resistant charts are a real boon for motorcyclists, listing color-coded routes, attractions, fuel stops and tips on each area. Regional maps are $8.95 each; Get Outta Town series $5.95 each. See the whole series at www.madmaps.com. Microsoft Streets & Trips 2007 This software has helped us plan dozens of forays flawlessly, and the new version's even more intuitive, featuring an interactive GPS locator that you can plug into your computer. It'll even figure fuel mileage for you. Get it for $129 at www.microsoft.com. Harley-Davidson Ride Atlas Of North America Here's a rubber-covered reference atlas covering ride maps, along with detailed U.S. state and city maps tailored to riders' needs, with minor highways and secondary roads highlighted in bold color. It's produced by Rand McNally and available at www.randmcnally.com or Harley-Davidson dealerships for $34.95. AAA TripTik You can always go back to the classics too; we heard that AAA recently made its famed online TripTik service available to non-members too. This mapping tool is more auto-biased, but it's an interactive resource for things like road conditions, gas stops and construction zones. You can even book a hotel online and check fuel prices. See www.aaa.com.   MedjetAssist But what if things don't go as planned? There's now a new medical evacuation program designed specifically for riders. MedjetAssist's Motorcycle Protection Plan protects bikers who fall sick or get injured while riding virtually anywhere in the world. If a member is hospitalized 150 miles or more from home, MedjetAssist will fly them to the hospital of their choice aboard a medically equipped aircraft. Pre-paid annual memberships for individuals up to 75 years of age are $225 each. For more info, visit www.medjetassist.com. On The web We've also found the following route-specific Web sites to be invaluable for trip planning: Motorcycle Roads www.motorcycleroads.us America's Byways www.byways.org Firestone Legendary Drives www.firestonelegendarydrives.com Road Notes www.roadnotes.com

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