Motorcycle Consumer News / Motorcycle Consumer News / Touring Forum

GL 1800 Vs VTX 1800

caseysanta — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:49:52 GMT

I have a question that I hope can be answered.
One of my riding friends rides a 04 VTX 1800 and I'm on an 02 GL 1800.
He is always strutting around saying his is faster than mine. ( not his is bigger than mine) I will not prove this on the road because I don't want to end up like Modett with a big fine.
I'm tired of listening to him so will someone please settle this for me. One way or the other.

Thanks

caseysanta

Ambitious 2 week road trip

TheHiMiler — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:58:35 GMT

On Saturday August 30, my friends Jeff (ZX-14) & Derek (LT1200) & I ( Electrglide Ultra Classic) are embarking on what will no doubt be a most excellent adventure. It will include 5 dirt track nationals, the MotoGP in Indianapolis, 2 motorcycle museums, and every great road east of the Mississippi River that the moto-mags rave about. All in a mere 2 weeks!

We leave Ohio for Springfield, Illinois where we will watch the Short Track National on Saturday night, followed by the Mile on Sunday & another Mile on Monday.

Tuesday we will ride to St. Louis to visit Dave Mungenast's Classic Motorcycle Museum before heading to Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Wednesday, we visit Cyclemo's Motorcycle Museum in Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee. Then we ride the Devil's Triangle while en route to the Cherohala Skyway, stopping for the night in Robbinsville, North Carolina. Hopefully we will arrive in time to ride Wayah Road, just to the south.

Thursday takes us to Hellbender Road & the Tail of the Dragon. Then we procede through eastern Tennessee to the Snake. We continue north into Virginia where there are many great, unpublicized, mountain roads - stopping near Roanoke for the night.

Friday finds us on the same type roads in Virginia, into West Virginia & western Maryland where we ride the Old National Road. This a fantastic stretch of pavement with little traffic & lots of twisties. We will stay in Hancock, Maryland or a little north into Pennsylvania, depending on time.

Saturday we wind through Pennsylvania into New York to Monticello, where we attend the Half Mile National dirt track race.

Sunday we twist our way through Pennsylvania, enjoying the mountains, particularly PA. Rt. 120, and stay in the Allegheny Mountains at Marienville.

Monday we head home. It will be a short day. About 250 miles.

We regroup, do laundry, pay bills, pull maintenance on the bikes & on Thursday, September 11, we're off again. Destination : Indianapolis. We have 3 day passes to the Moto GP & will also attend the return of the Indy Mile at the fairgrounds.

Sunday, after the races, we will make the reluctant ride home to north central Ohio & return to work on Monday, September 15.

This route is almost perfect! It sounds ambitious but we only have 2 days over 325 miles, the 1st to Springfield, & the Tuesday we leave Springfield.

With the crooked roads, the museums & the races, it's a bikers dream come true!

California Coastal Highway

Nighttrain — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:02:06 GMT

Can anybody give me any advice on what time of year to ride the California Coastal Highway (US 1). We are planning to fly to Las Vegas for a couple of days, rent a bagger, and ride up the California coast to Oregon. Thinking about a winter trip.

Thanks!

Tours - which one

drummer — Mon, 10 Oct 2005 09:51:40 GMT

I keep reading write ups from people that have flown to XYZ and joined a bike tour/trip. Such places include Utah, California, New Zealand, Australia, Africa, the Alps, etc.

My questions are:

If you were to take one of these trips, would you go outside of the country? If not, why?

And if you have or will do one of these trips which one and how did you choose?

Does anyone have first hand experience with a bike touring company based in Alaska?

I can see in the next couple of years having the ability to do this so I would appreciate any advice you can give. No matter where the tour is to be, I should start planning soon. That's why I am looking for destination input and trip advice.

Thanks for you input..

The "Z" MAN
BMW R1100R
Honda Shadow 1100 (4 sale)

Know a good tour company in Europe??

billyjean1 — Sat, 12 Nov 2005 09:42:29 GMT

We are interested in planning a trip to Europe.. Alps etc., and using a tour company to rent a bike and use their tour guides. We are interested in any feedback from those of you that have been. We've seen websites for Beaches Tour company and Bosenberg. We know there are many more so any feedback from other riders would really be appreciated. Also, we ride a Goldwing now and we're considering renting one in Europe....feedback on what type of rides you rented would be great also.
Thanks,
Bill

Billy Morgan

How much do you budget for motel rooms?

torqueman — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 10:59:02 GMT

You all know by now that one of my big hot buttons has been the rising cost of motel rooms. It is totally out of control.

People who can most afford to pay for rooms get the best price breaks. I have learned to play the system a little myself in recent years by asking "can I have the corporate rate for xyz?" Where xyz is some local large company. I justify it ethically because I don't really say I work for them I just say I want the discount. In some cases I have had the price cut 50% doing this.

Still this is not always a magic bullet and I wish there was some easer way to get real price breaks on rooms. So please let us know not only what you budget but how you find rooms at that rate. And can you stay in budget or is reality that you will go over?

A day near the BRP

drummer — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 06:20:24 GMT

Yesterday, two friends from work and I took a mental health day. We met at 8:00 AM and rode two hours to get to the Blue Ridge Parkway (two BMWs and a V Strom). None of us had ridden together before, but knew the others personality from work. The ride to the BRP was great, not much traffic and the Sheriffs that were out only watched us for a brief period of time. The ride to Stuart, Va. was sunny, some clouds, but clean fresh air while being a little humid. No real glare and the air temp was perfect. We chose to travel route 58 to the BRP and arrived at Mabry Mill around 10:15. When we got there, the first thing that struck all of us was how much cooler it was at that altitude and the smell of the forest was great. Until then the ride was nice, nothing out of the ordinary but it sure beat being at the office. Now that we were in the mountains it was like months of prep and the game was about to begin.
After some small talk we headed north. Somewhere after route 8, we jumped onto a back road to look for gas and that’s when the fun began.

A couple of turns and the speed picked up. The leader had his GPS set for back roads and we were going about 55 mph or better. Each set of curves produced new revelations and joys. I rode in the last spot, as my bike could not perform like their bikes. Ok, so it could have been me as well – they are good riders. Needless to say I learned a lot about riding, and about them.

So let me set the stage, the road is supposed to be wide enough for two cars, that is if they are minis or both put their outside tires off the pavement when passing. The road is tree lined, it travels up and down hills, lots of blind corners (both directions) and at times fifty foot drop offs where the ditch would be on more modern roads. Some times the road opens to a field area then it is lined with barbed wire fences and farms.

I really liked being in last position as I could follow the track of their wheels when I felt it appropriate. Sometimes they would enter a corner to far to the wrong side for my tastes and some times that would also get me in trouble. The lead, having a GPS, knew the extent of the corner, I did not. A couple of times I went in too hot and a couple of times the bumps in the corner threw off the centrifugal force. On one occasion, we started down a road and 500 feet into it, it became apparent that it was a, “tar and stone” road that they just created. Stone was everywhere in piles. We slowed a great deal to take that road on.

All in all, it was a great ride and I strongly recommend that if you go to the BRP, do the side roads for fun but ride safely, they are challenging.

Back in the Saddle - Again

lakerats — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 19:58:30 GMT

1970 - Back from 'Nam, got me a new Yamaha Street 250 2 stroke. Only transportation to/from work & school. Many trips with local dealership group - some cross-country, some out of country (Mexico). Many riding/safety schools, ended up as instructor. 20K on bike at trade-in.

1972 - Upgraded to Yamaha YDS 650, 2-lung, 4 stroke. Story as before although trips are more frequent and of longer distance & duration. Maintained instructor certification nationally and locally.

1974 - Got married - goodbye, old friend (sniff)!

Fast forward to June 10, 2008: Chatting with spouse of 35 years over high gas prices and lamenting my last $200+ fillup in my '99 F250 PowerStroke Super Diesel when she asks: "what kind of mileage do motorcycles get nowadays?"

June 25th - Took delivery of an '08 HD Ultra Classic (What?...Are you Nuts??). Loaded it on a trailer and took it home. For a full day all I did was look at it thinking to myself: "Self...You've got to be out of your ever-lovin mind!! You just spent more on this thing than your first house cost and you haven't been on a bike in 34 YEARS!!!!!"

I live in a rural area with many winding roads, changing road conditions, critters and cars that like to cross the line on curves, not to mention the 12% driveway grade from my garage to a 12% grade on the road to get out of our subdivision (What an idiot I am!).

Day 2 AM - Practiced 1/2 a day just getting out of my driveway - uphill, and learning the clutch. Also practiced balancing and maneuvering in my driveway. Day 2 PM - Collected some courage and made it up the driveway to the road. Drove around the neighborhood - felt pretty good! Heavy...this bike is only twice that of my old 650. Low-speed handling sucks - better with time? Went to the corner...then to the main road...then to the highway (55-60 mph). Sweet. Uh-oh.....Now I have to get back into my garage without dumping it!

As of today - 18 days of ownership. 1200 miles so far. Daily driver when the sun's out. I use it for daily commute to work. Daily speeds vary up to 60 mph and on varying road types and surfaces. Plenty of daily hazards and obstacles to anticipate and watch out for. Working on my lane/track control everyday on the winding roads in my part of the county. On breaks/lunch I slow-speed-practice in the large parking lot where I work (retired TX Highway Patrol,DoD, now at Lowe's). Been caught in the rain twice - PO'd a bunch of auto drivers behind me 'cause I was driving slow - this bike's a little squirrely in the rain.

Been on 2 rides: Make-a-Wish last weekend (200+ miles), Group Riding Safety Course (classroom & ride) at nearly 150 miles today. Signed up for an "Old-Fart's" class at the Motorcycle Safety office at the agency I used to be with. Just want to make sure I haven't picked up or am "practicing" any bad habits. I have a good rain suit, good breathing riding jacket, helmet, boots and good gloves.

Still very cautious at this point. I don't trust turn signals on cars. I'm still working hard at building my confidence on curves and the low-speed maneuvering is getting much better. In-town traffic doesn't intimidate me. I must say that I was not prepared for the mental resources one has to commit to ride (drive) something as big as this - much more than my old Yamaha 650!

Haven't tipped it over yet and have only stalled it once on take-off. It's going to be a L-O-N-G time before I'm ready for a passenger. Attending my first HOG Chapter meeting Tuesday - looking forward to it. All I have met so far have been very helpful and supportive. One even stated I have huge Kahones for jumping on an Ultra after all that time out of the saddle.

Getting my 1st 1000-mile checkup and service at the dealership this week. I'm looking forward to the next 1000 miles and more group rides.

For what it's worth. So far.....so good.

A trip to ride the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.

rnielsen — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 15:03:59 GMT

I'm heading to Nova Scotia to ride the Cabot Trail with my two sons in about a month. One rides a KLR 650, the other a DR 650, and I ride a Suzuki Boulevard M50 cruiser. Guess who won't be doing much off road riding on this trip?

Although I've used Automap to lay out the trip, I'd still appreciate any helpful hints, must sees and any other tidbits you'd care to share. Our general plan is to cross the northern U.S. at about 300 miles or so a day, reducing that to about 180-200 miles a day in Canada. That's so we'll have time to smell the flowers AND take a few pictures along the way.

Several ferry rides are planned, across Lake Michigan on the SS Badger from Manitowoc, WI to Luddington, MI for starters. Next ferry is across Lake Champlain from Port Kent, NY to Burlington, VT with a further stop at Ben & Jerry's ice cream factory for a taste or two.

We'll traverse the Bay of Fundy through New Brunswick, cross to Prince Edward Island via the Confederation bridge and then come back to the mainland on the Wood Islands ferry before heading to Port Hastings. From there we'll head north on the Cabot Trail stopping in Cheticamp, NS before heading south again. Our final ferry ride will be from Digby, NS to St. John, NB before heading back to the states.

We hope to ride U.S. 1 down the Maine coast with a stop in Bar Harbor finally reaching Saco-Biddeford Maine. Then it's back across New Hampshire, Vermont and New York before dropping down into Pennsylvania to ride the Grand Army of the Republic highway (U.S. 6) across most of the state.

Once through Ohio we hope to see the Duesenberg-Auburn-Cord museum in Auburn, IN before getting serious about heading for home -- at that point a couple of days away.

Sixteen days in all on the road, about 4500 miles to ride and hoping for good weather, but prepared for the worst.

Any ideas you'd care to share?

Ray Nielsen, in Minneapolis and going for a breakfast ride tomorrow.

Advice for "re-entry" rider?

Jim946 — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 20:23:59 GMT

OK, here's my story: I used to ride a lot; started on dirtbikes like most us, then got onto the street at about age 18. Had several bikes including an RD400 that I rode all over CA. Didn't even own a car for a few years. Did tons of dumb stuff (and maybe some not so dumb stuff every so often), had my share of crashes, but nothing worse than a broken bone. Got one of the first V45 Interceptors around and raced AFM and ARRA for a couple of years. Then I changed jobs, changed towns, changed girlfriends, and sort of... just....stopped riding. No real story here, I just got into other things.

Flash forward 20 years, the girl is now my wife, we have 2.2 great kids, a mortgage, etc, and call it midlife crisis, or call it finally coming back to my senses, but God help me, I feel like I need to get back on a motorcycle again.

No longer the impulsive type, I pondered for several months, eyeing metric cruisers, but I just can't ever see myself riding with my feet out in front of me. It's a great position for watching TV, but for me anyway it seems dangerously passive to ride a bike that way. So I've decided on an FJR1300A. (Stop laughing, I'm serious and yes I know that an FJR makes almost twice the horsepower than even my race bike did, but I'm older now and have much better urge control than I did back then).

Although I live in Atlanta now, my business takes me all over the country, and one evening I was in Dallas killing time at the local bike shop, bs'ing with the shop guys. One of them said "You should buy the bike here and ride it back to Atlanta", to which I of course immediately replied "Dude, that's crazy". You can guess the next part: I've been thinking about that - I don't think that's so crazy anymore. A) it would give me a chance to shake the rust off fairly quickly, and B) it would be a great ride.

So here's my (very tentative) plan: I'll do it this June; pick a spot about 1,000 or so miles away from ATL, jump on a plane with nothing but my helmet, a small duffel bag, and a credit card, and ride the bike back, staying on backroads and highways the whole way.

Sorry for the long intro, but finally here are just a few of the things that I'd love to hear people's opinions on:

Where should I buy the bike? I'm thinking Austin or Dallas (after all it was their idea), and going down to the Gulf Coast, through MS, LA, AL, and up to ATL, but maybe I should look at Key West, or somewhare up north like DC and come down the Blue Ridge Parkway?
How many miles per day should I plan on?
What should I bring?
Any great roads you'd recommend?
Should I get a GPS or a tank bag with a stack of Google map prints?
What am I missing?
And finally, am I crazy? Is this folly? Am I going to get 100 miles into this thing and have my back start hurting, my hands going numb, my head exploding? Am I rustier than I think? Isn't riding a bike kind of like riding a bike, you never forget?

Please be honest and put it right out there for me. You won't hurt my feelings. Thanks everyone.

03 Screamin Eagle Road King Seat Woes

JjR — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 15:43:12 GMT

Well I just sold off my 06 Wing and picked up a 2003 Screamin Eagle Road king with low miles. I have always wanted to try one of these and having owned RK in the past I knew I was in for trouble finding a seat.

In the past I have tried Mustang, Air Rider Insearts, HD Sundowner and even my all time favorite best seat ever built the Russell Day Long.

I found out that the only one that worked for myself was the Russell but since they could only build me a seat off the original Russell pan they could not move me back far enough. So it will not work.

So now I have this beautiful 03 Screamin Eagle and I sit on the OEM seat, hmm I think the seat feels different. Almost comfortable to the butt, but as usuall like the rest of the RK seats that feeling was short lived. After a 90 mile ride I was wimpering like a little girl.

So someone suggested a Butt Buffer Insert, the seat was sent in and was back in a few days. Wow I though this might be it, well almost ! I took a 170 mile ride and half way through the immence pain started again, but I must say it was not as bad as the HD seat.

So now I have this bike and can not really ride it any diistance and I'm out of seat choices. I know that my biggest problem is my size as I'm 6'01" 265, 32" inseam. I did call around some of these Harley seat builders and from what I understood they are really built for looks and zero comfort.

So now I'm down to my last choise Corbin, I have never had any luck with they on my BMW's years ago and the customer service was usually poor if even that.

So I called Corbin yesterday and told them my size and I was told that they could build me a saddle to fit but I'm very leery about that. I want to take a chance but a $700 or more chance for a Company that still does not have the best curtomer service (according to a lot of biker sites) I'm not ready to have it done.

So I would like to hear back from some riders who own the Screamin Egle Road King and use Corbin seat and how you like or dislike it and if you were able to keep your original bars. A photo of you bike with the seat on it would be nice also.

TIA,

JOhn

Finally, some pics of our trip down the coast.

caseysanta — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 06:18:15 GMT

I do hope this works. If it does I will send more pics later.
This is a few of my pictures. Please let me know if this works.

caseysanta

Go to: flickr.com/photos/caseysanta/

Touring with a Non-touring Bike

blutex — Wed, 02 Nov 2005 13:25:30 GMT

I once read a story about a guy who traveled diferent parts of the world (deserts too) in his sport bike. He said that as long as you enjoy your ride any bike is good enough for touring. So whats your take on the best non-touring bike for touring?

"Only one man ever understood me, and he didn't understand me." - G.W. Hegel

Ultra vs. Goldwing

SRG — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 11:07:41 GMT

Here is a comparison of a Harley-Davidson Ultra to Honda Goldwing. I would like to put it out there for people to get a perspective from someone other than MCNews. My biggest concern is why doesn't MCNews notice these things in their reviews?

http://www.ba-marc.org/writeups/hd-gw1800comp.htm

Switching - BMW LT to Gold Wing

Balevic — Sun, 30 Oct 2005 18:25:15 GMT

I'd like to get opinions from long distance riders (700 to 1000 miles per day) who have switched from a BMW LT to a Gold Wing. I've been riding LD for 30 years, but have heard from riders of the 2004 - 2005 Gold Wing that it's more comfortable, smoother, and much better at night in terms of lighting. Any thoughts would be appreciated... thanks.

Eating while touring

NJScooterGal — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 02:37:30 GMT

Hey There...

When most of you are out touring or just out for a long day trip, do you dine on fast food (Mickey's D's, Wendy's, BK, Sonic, etc) or eat at chains (Cracker Barrel, Applebee's, Joe's Crab Shack, Olive Garden, etc)?

Do you mix it up a bit between all of that or do you prefer finding that little Mom and Pop down home diner one day and somethnig quicker the other?

Do any of you pack snacks for a quick energy boost or for medical reasons which you might consume at a roadside rest area, butt break, or scenic overlook?

Lastly (thanks for being patient), do any of you pack some kind of roadside survival kit (other than your basic repair tools)?

Thanks for responding..

Lisa

Blue Ridge trip.

torqueman — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:31:24 GMT

Well we are here in Cherokee NC right now. We jumped on the BR Parkway at Blowing Rock and stayed the first night in Little Switzerland. What I was not aware of is the Parkway is closed for 28 miles from Little Switzerland south. So the next day we did the detour and got back on near Asheville. That route still takes you through all the tunnels and the highest spot on the parkway but the part that is cut out is one of the best parts.

We stayed last night at a mediocre motel and decided to switch this morning. So we packed up and road down to Highland past all the waterfalls. We took the obligatory picture where the road goes under the falls (I think I got three of these now.) Back up 107 to our new room in Cherokee.

Tomorrow is the dragon. Lucky us the temps hit a record high of 91 degrees here today so we are getting up early to ride then during the hot part of the day doing other things. This afternoon we donated a bunch of money to the Native Americans one dollar at a time.

For the folks that pointed out the cold winter was a sign global warming is a farce we are 10 degrees above average in NC today.

Do wives and passengers really enjoy touring?

Jim946 — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:21:37 GMT

This post goes out to the touring passengers out there. Do you really enjoy touring or do you just put up with it because you love your partner? If you do like it, why?

I ask the question because as much as I love riding I can't see myself really loving being a passenger for hours on end. I'm getting back into riding after a long layoff and would love it if my wife came with me, but it's hard to ask her to do something I wouldn't necessarily enjoy that much myself. What do you other riders think? Could you see yourselves touring if you weren't the one actually controlling the bike?

FJR 1000 Mile Ride Report!

ShawnKing — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 11:01:36 GMT

There was nothing remarkable about the break in period except for me trying to get used to the FJR. I'm coming from my first bike - an '05 Yamaha Royal Star Tour Deluxe I had put 35k miles on in 2.5 years. I loved that bike but was quickly realizing its limitations for the way I wanted to ride. It was originally purchased because my wife and I wanted to go on long trips together. After she got her own sport tourer ('08 BMW F800ST), I needed something that could keep up with her. :)

Even during the break in period, the performance of the FJR was obviously a quantum leap over the abilities of the Royal Star. There were a couple of times twisting the throttle on the FJR was literally frightening. :)

Finally managed to get 600 miles on it - slowest 600 mile *ever*! Wife and I were planning on riding to NJ a few weekends ago so I wanted to get the service done before then.

Called the dealer to make drop off arrangements and rushed down there - "rushed" being the key word. :(

I caught a bad case of Teh Stoopids.

Dealership has an oddly sloped area right where you think would be a good place to stop. I know this and yet - I still stopped there. My wife was on her bike and had pulled up next to me on my right.

I put the kickstand down and proceeded to get off the bike. Bike decided it didn't want to lean to the left. It wanted to lean to the right - unfortunately, that's not where the kickstand is. :(

I managed to swing my right leg back over to the other side but by that time, the bike was well on its way down and because my wife had pulled up next to me, I couldn't really get any leverage. All I could do is let the bike down slowly.

Letting a bike down slowly does *not* mean gently though. Scratched up the right side mirror, fairing and saddlebag. Did I mention I did this in the dealership parking lot!? :(

Everything checked out just fine on the bike although I am concerned that our dealer doesn't explain many things or ask many questions about the bike (big difference from our Nashville, TN dealer who was the most helpful group of people I've ever dealt with).

Whether it's tooling around the Danbury CT area (we've just moved here so we are still exploring) or going on longish trips (we went to Cape Cod this past weekend), the bike is an absolute blast to ride.

Cons: I'm going to give it to the 4K maintenance before I do anything drastic but the riding position takes a lot of getting used to. I'm 6'3" and have to constantly remind myself not to lean on my wrists. The inside nerve of both elbows gets a little "tweaked" on long runs, too. I was spoiled by the cruise control on the Royal Star and really miss it.

For me, the stock windshield is next to useless. At highway speeds, when it is fully raised, it makes a hellacious amount of noise. At any other position, the buffeting is really annoying.

I'm used to toploading cases so I find the side loading ones *really* annoying. I'm constantly trapping small bits of gear in the cases and not being able to lose them.

No Cruise Control/self canceling turn signals.

Slight but annoying buzz in throttle grips and right side footpegs at highway speeds. Probably just needs something tightened up.

Pros: Scary quick/fast. "Scary" has always been in a good way though. I've been cruising down the highway wondering why everyone else seems to be going slow when I look at the speedo to see...well...let's just say the numbers would get me a high "Performance Award" from the local troopers.

But it's also just quick. Not only 0-60 but also at speed. Going quickly from 60-80 to pass is ridiculously smooth and easy as is clicking through the gears. I hit the "Perfect Shift" a *lot* more on the FJR than I ever did on the Royal Star.

I'm surprised at how much room there is in the cases - not as much as the Royal Star but even the Royal Star's hardbags couldn't fit a full face helmet.

The stock seat is surprisingly comfortable. Because of the better gas mileage, we're on the bike for about 30 mins longer at a stretch than the Royal Star but there is much less discomfort from the seat.

Gauges are easy to read, even at night. I really like the gear indicator and the "average gas mileage" indicator. Lets you know how much gas you're wasting taking off from stop lights. :)

I'm not an "aggressive" rider through turns (although, I'd like to learn) but it's obvious how much the FJR *wants* to be flicked through curves (keep in mind I'm coming off a 900 lbs cruiser so yes, I consider a 600+lbs sport tourer "flickable" :) ). I was able to take the FJR on several curvy roads I had ridden on the Royal Star and was surprised to not have to hit the same braking points and often, not have to brake for the curve at all!

One of the major (and it turns out, silly) concerns I had was pegs vs floorboards - I thought there would be a problem coming from the relatively relaxed cruising foot position but, other than occasionally hitting my feet on the pegs as I lift off the ground, it's a non-issue.

Overall, I'm absolutely loving this bike and am really looking forward to exploring/touring this summer!

Great time of year ....

drummer — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 09:31:15 GMT

North Carolina - April can be just a bit odd. One day is high seventies and thirties that night. Next day can be high in the low forties and twenties. May however, is just wonderful. The lows rarely dip into the thirties and the highs can go into the eighties.

This AM while riding to work, the temp was about 55, the traffic was light on the super slab, and the engine was just humming. My Olympia gear had the liner removed so it was just on the cool side, but still very comfortable. While riding, I found myself just smiling, smiling for the sake of the ride. Safe, fun, comfortable, no threats, and the smells were of every fast food place you could imagine as I would pass exit after exit.
This afternoon when I ride home it should be just about 80 degrees, slight haze to in the sky to dampen the sun and hopefully the traffic will again be light.

Man, I love riding. Days like today just bring out that wondrous feeling and I just had to share.

Have fun and I hope you are finding the same sort of joy in your part of the country.

Motorcycle Blessing

Luchs32 — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:15:51 GMT

http://nhblessingofthebikes.tripod.com/

The 32nd Annual Blessing

of the Motorcycles,

in Colebrook, NH

And the

11th Annual

Great North Woods Ride In,

Colebrook, NH

Friday, June 20th, 2008

Through

Sunday, June 22nd, 2008

Schedule of Events

Friday, June 20th - 11A.M. to 5 P.M.

"WELCOME"

T-Shirts, Hats & Pins, F.M.I. and Schedule of Events

Pre-Registration for all Motorcycle Events

at The Information Booth

At the Shrine of Our Lady Of Grace Route 3 Colebrook, NH

Friday, June 20th - 5 P.M. to 7 P.M.

Kiwanis Club Of Colebrook Roast Beef Cookout

Kiwanis of Colebrook

Colebrook Academy Lawn

Corner Academy & Park Streets, Colebrook, NH

Friday June 20th - 9:00 P.M. to 1:00 A.M.

Northland Restaurant and Lounge Dance

Dance to Live Music

Route 114, Canaan, Vermont

Friday June 20th - 7 P.M.

Dinner and a Show

Dinner will include a Grand Buffet

and some of New England's Best Comedians

Brought to you by North Shore Comedy Connection

Colebrook Country Club Route 26, Colebrook

Saturday, June 21st - 9A.M. to 5 P.M. "WELCOME & INFORMATION"

Information Booth

T-Shirts, Pins, Information, and Schedule of events

at The Shrine of Our Lady Of Grace Route 3 Colebrook, NH

Saturday June 21st - 11:00 A.M. to 3 P.M.

Pre-Registration for all events will be from 11:00 A.M. to Noon.

Motorcycle Rodeo Competitions - Vendors - Music

D.J. Music

Fun for all ages

Organized by the Cougars Motorcycle Association

Remember this year we will have

a New Location - for the Rodeo

At the Shrine of Our Lady Of Grace

Motorcycle Rodeo Games will include:

Slow Ride (Timed Event - longest distance before putting feet down)

Board Ride

Frying Pan Toss -(Motorcycle not needed for this event)

Weight Toss-(Motorcycle not needed for this event)

New- Hoola Ride

Romp In The Hay

(Not Necessarily in this Order - Pre-registration is required before each event starts.)

Saturday June 21st - 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Motorcycle Poker Run

Organized by Kari of Pure Country Motel

Bring your Helmets for this ride, as it goes through Vermont

Starts and Ends at The Shrine of Our Lady Of Grace

Route 3, Colebrook

Saturday June 21st - Lineup & Judging at 5:30 P.M.

2008 Bike Show - In Honor of Claire Labretto

Prizes will go to:

Best Most Original

Best Customized

Best Over All

At The Shrine of Our Lady Of Grace - On The Lawn behind the Vendors

Route 3, Colebrook

Saturday June 21st - 6:00 P.M.

Motorcycle Parade

Parade line up starts at 5:45pm at the Shrine

THE PARADE LEAVES EXACTLY AT 6:00 PM SHARP

Parade Route Through the

Town of Colebrook and back to the Shrine

Saturday June 21st - 9:00 P.M. to 1:00 A.M.

Colebrook House and Tavern

Dance With Live Music - Deza-Vu

Colebrook, NH

Sunday, June 22nd - 7:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.

Pancake Breakfast

Sponsored by: Luc Lambert and the Knights of Columbus

at The Shrine of Our Lady Of Grace

Route 3, Colebrook

Sunday, June 22nd - 8A.M. to Close of Events "WELCOME & INFORMATION"

Information Booth

T-Shirts, Hats, Pins, Information, and Schedule of events

at The Shrine of Our Lady Of Grace Route 3 Colebrook, NH

Sunday, June 22nd - 11:00 A.M.

Mass

The Shrine of Our Lady Of Grace

Route 3, Colebrook

Sunday, June 22nd - 1:00 P.M. Sharp

Motorcycle Blessing

The Shrine of Our Lady Of Grace

Route 3, Colebrook

Goldwing Wobble

MrDAD — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 08:49:01 GMT

I am new to this forum but I have my own experience with this topic. Last year I picked up an 1986 Goldwing Aspencade with 34K on it. I only put about 400 miles on it since it was late in the season here in Illinois. I am having work done on it currently Carbs and tires. While riding it last year I noticed if I took both hands not off the handle grips but just removed the pressure while slowing down from 40 to 35 gear did not matter I would get a fairly strong wobble which surprised me. I never felt this so long as I had pressure on the handle bars at all only if there was slack on both would it become noticeable. I have talked to several friends who own different bikes as well as Hondas and they have said they have heard of this also. I am having tires replaced because it is needed it may or may not solve the problem. At this time I feel so long as the vibration does not show itself while I have hands on handle bars the stability of bike is not in question. As soon as I feel vibration while gripping the handle bars I have a problem I need to fix. Reading all of the ideas in the forum the question is what will fix it. Just as a side bar I have a Honda 2005 CRV it has a quirk as well during acceleration it has a slight tendency to pull to the right this is since day one. I had the tires check 3 times and alignment 2 in the first 6K miles never went totaly away. You pay good money for these machines and then find out about these quirks, the one problem overall Honda still builds one of the most reliable products out there. Well this is my 2 cents it may not solve anything but I hope it has informed anyone who may be looking at Hondas.

Question about Garmin 2610 GPS

sv650 — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 07:24:26 GMT

I have a Garmin 2610 and cannot figure out how to use more than one of the mileage logs. There are 4 different logs and I would like to be able to use one for total trip mileage, one for days mileage, and one for between gas stops. Hope someone with the 2610 can help. The Garmin manual does not explain how to use them.

Thanks Bob

Need suggestions/options

'92 Winger — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 05:37:58 GMT

I will be going (alone) from the MA/NH border to Fort Bragg NC in the beginning of May (first or second week). I could use a couple of motorcycle friendly places to stay about halfway there (both ways) I was thinking about just south of DC on the way down and just north of DC on the way home. My son gets promoted in May, and I am riding down to pin his new rank on him. Then I have family to visit in the Raleigh area on my way home. I'd like to do the BRP, but don't think I'll have the time on this trip. I'll probably be doing the superslab for most if not all of the trip. Any suggestions in inexpensive Bike - friendly motels?

Shipping you personal bike

sidecar — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 17:26:25 GMT

I’m going to Colorado in May - 9 days for training and perhaps 5 for vacation/touring. I expect to fly out from MA to Denver around the 8th of May and fly back around the 23rd/24th (the weekend of Memorial Day).

I’m considering shipping one of my motorcycles to ride while I’m there instead of renting a car for 9 days and a bike for up to 5.

Anyone with experience shipping their personal bikes here in the US? I’ll be about 20 miles from Denver for the training. Opinions on must see places during my 5 days of touring?

Poppies

RePete — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 20:12:31 GMT

The poppy is the California state flower and it is April. So.......

Harley Sportser for Touring?

thelostshark — Thu, 17 Feb 2005 14:29:42 GMT

Before you call me insane (and I can be), hear me out. I live and work in Wash. DC. So lots of my riding is city riding, where it pays to have a smaller bike. However, I also take long trips; it's not uncommon for me to take a 3 day weekend and put 1500 miles on my bike. So, I tried to choose a bike (Suzuki Marauder, 800) that was not real small and not real big; somewhat of a 'tweener. The farthest I've ridden it was to Daytona last year (over 800 butt-busting miles). Now, the new Harley Sportster 1200 Custom is rubber mounted and has a bigger tank than the older version, and the AMA magazine just published an article that said it's not half bad for longer distances. Obviously it's not a tourer, but how would the 1200 Custom compare to my Marauder as a 'tweener? thx tls

jib

From my journal

RePete — Sun, 29 Jan 2006 18:26:58 GMT

I was reading my journal the other day, and thought some might enjoy an entry or two...besides its winter. If you do, let me know but don't encourage me too much. I have pages of this stuff. The mileage given is lifetime.

August 1969, Mileage 89, '69 Suzuki 250 X6 Hustler, Seattle:
"That's it". My little Suzuki had just sputtered to a stop. It had started cutting out a short while before and I had rerouted to a nearby cycle shop. I pushed the last half mile to Aurora Cycle only to be shown with a smile that the petcock had a reserve position.

November 1970, Mileage 4350, '71 Honda 750 K1, Virginia:
"Can we help?" The three young coeds were kind enough to help me out from under my bike. The movie was over and I had spotted them walking toward me. I went into Marlon Brando mode and decided to use the kickstarter like a real man instead of the wimpy starter button. The four cylinder turned over easily and I could start it with my hand. But I straddled the bike on its sidestand and jumped high into the air coming down on the lever with all my might. Well the kickstarter was on the right side of the bike opposite the sidestand. The force of my blow brought the bike upright but failed to start it. When I reached for the ground with my right foot, I discovered my bellbottom jeans had looped over the kickstart lever. The bike and I slowly toppled over and my right leg was pinned under the bike.

Wife,R1,Kendon,Mountaineer,Alpinestars,Levis,Bose

Tanks, Trains, Cars

drummer — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 16:37:51 GMT

After talking with a few other motorcyclist over the holidays, it dawned on me that we MC riders have a general fascination for all things motorized. That said, I thought it would be nice to just post a couple of destinations for other "wing nuts" to go and see some history of mechanization if you wish. Or places of mechanical interest like the HD plant in Pennsylvania, etc. Just an idea that we can plan some places for us to make trip plans to when the weather gets nice.

Tank Museum, Danville, Virgina (all things from the military, including guns, outfits, etc..)

http://www.aaftankmuseum.com/index.html

Transportation Museum, Spencer, NC (trains (including a roundhouse), cars, etc.)

http://www.nctrans.org/index.php

Just a couple of spots to visit during your 2008 outtings.

Trying to get back to Touring

Christian_rider — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 22:54:39 GMT

Hello,
I have been on another forum for a long time. I went through some life altering things over the past few years. Sold the BMW RT as I thought it was the problem. Nope, a younger man was and so was my choice in women. Too bad it took ten years and two wonderful children to find that out. Too bad I sold the BMW too! I am stuck with a Bandit 600 for now! I have had it since 96 and can not kill the thing! I am remarried and will replace the BMW with a GT or RT when things are a little better. Still recovering from the $$$$$$$$ spent on custody of my girls. Made me much stronger through it all and now when I ride I ride for Him as much as me. The new wife, not overly thrilled about riding, but once she gets on something more substantial than the Bandit I hope that will change. I figure I will do church in a different state at least one Sunday out of every month. If I do not get run out for going in, in a riding suit! I now have 5 wonderful children to feed and take care of. the oldest is 10, 2 boys and 3 girls. They enjoy the ride with me even though I do not go far from the house on the back country roads where I now live. I have been lurking for awhile here and look forward to participating now. God, family, work and play and in that order. I try to up my riding in that order by believing I am more than playing but doing God's work when I ride, when the opportunity presents itself. I also do this at work as many times I get the undivided attention of my passengers in my car as they are handcuffed and on their way to a place they would rather not go. Torture for some!
I have ridden many bikes since I was 14. I have dragged my knees at the track on several bikes, the last being a CBR 1000 ( now totaled by the EX, long story). I have chased down people on the track at Talladega who did not have clearance to be there on a BMW R1150RT-P. And a few drivers who were in other cars than the race car. I have been in many of the Southeastern states on joy rides missions trips or a means to get from point A to point B. For awhile when I was younger I rode for about two years on a older bike to save gas and have a little fun, as the Silverwing was all I could afford. Now, I am trying to find a way to get back on a BMW and until then will occupy my limited free time here, or out on the Bandit sometimes. Free time with 5 kids does not come to easy!

Mt. Magazine Lodge, Arkansas

OzarkWingGuy — Sun, 01 Oct 2006 06:53:31 GMT

I've made reference to this new lodge before and the great riding around the area. Now that I've stayed at the lodge I can add my recommendation to the accomadations. Try to get a room on the 3rd floor, which features spectacular scenery overlooking Blue Mtn Lake. The rooms with king bed features a 2-person jacuzzi tub and other ammenities expected in a nice room. The restaurant features high ceilings with huge rustic log beams and fantastic views. The indoor pool also overlooks the valley below. Same way with the exercise room.

Here is the website:

http://www.mountmagazinestatepark.com/lodge-cabin-rest/lodge/

A cycle hangout just a few miles from the lodge is Shirleys Outback located a few miles north of the visitor center on Hwy 309.

How to Prepare for a Specific Destination

motorrad-michael — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 17:21:08 GMT

These motorcycle travel DVDs are informative and inspirational and will help you be SAFE and have FUN on your rides...

Single Rider Trip

drummer — Fri, 26 May 2006 06:39:57 GMT

How many of you perform long trips by yourself? I am about to go on a bike trip 550 miles one way (when I return about 2K miles) and a number of people tell me that I am crazy. Be that as it may, it seems pointless to state the obvious, but I don't think that I am crazy for wanting to take a trip on the bike rather than in a cage.

So I was curious, what are the opinions of my motorcycle peers?

Used BMW for touring

CUZ — Sat, 30 Dec 2006 21:06:10 GMT

I've saved a few $$ for a second bike, the first is an 02 Electra Glide Standard. The body is getting to old to enjoy 6-10 hrs on that thing doing long distance riding. I want a BMW, better yet I deserve one. The question is which one? It will be used, $10k or less. I'm thinking an R1150RT or possible even an K1200RS. I know when all is said and done its my butt in the seat but I'd love to hear some opinions. Thanks.....Cuz

Purchasing Gerbings heated clothing

Brymort — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 07:25:04 GMT

I have been looking to buy new Gerbings Heated Clothing. Did the research and now need the advice of where to get it at a discount. Any news?

Replacement windshields

Buckaroo — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 14:47:06 GMT

I don't get on this forum often so I may have missed a discussion of this issue before. My wife and I ride a 1994 Goldwing with a stock windshield. I have a good still air pocket but my wife sits higher and gets a pretty good wind blast. We would like to get a windshield system that provides better protection for her. I see quite a few GW's with Tulsa windshields and have heard they work pretty well. I am not in love with their looks and haven't heard how they are in cross winds or how they affect fuel mileage.

I have also heard about the Laminar Lip but have never seen one on a GW.

I am hoping others on the forum have some experience with aftermarket windshields, etc. that might improve the ride quality for the passenger. Any recommendations will be appreciated.

Thanks

who makes this trailer ?

HAWGIRL78 — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 17:01:13 GMT

does anyone know who makes this trailer ?

Blue Ridge Parkway

dragonmaster — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 15:23:45 GMT

Freya (my Honda Valkyrie) and I are doing a solo trip down the Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway next week. I'll be camping for the most part.

Any suggestions for campgrounds or food (especially barbecue) would be welcome.

a couple of pixs from my last trip to the UP

torqueman — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 17:35:35 GMT

Here is a couple of pixs from my trip to the MI UP. First one is the lighthouse and bridge at Mackinaw. BTW you guys forgot to call and let them know I was coming so the right lane was still open.

http://www.motorcycletouring.net/touring/lighthouse/copper%20harbor%2007/img_0232.jpg

Why on earth do I always bindly follow the GPSR and never double check the route? Oh ya this is the reason.

http://www.motorcycletouring.net/touring/lighthouse/copper%20harbor%2007/img_0237.jpg

Great trip report

torqueman — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 18:13:38 GMT

This was sent to me by Fran so he gets all the credit for finding it. What a great story. I sure wish I could write as descriptive at this guy does.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=265019