Thinking of riding from Ohio or to Grand Canyon and Yellowstone. Been biking 3 yrs, but just moved up to a sport-tourer. Any advice that may not be so obvious?
2006-08-01 13:41:26 · 10 answers · asked by diesel_pusher2 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Motorcycles
Hi,
For starters, take a look at the Iron Butt Association's "Archive of Wisdom". Figure that you will be the freshest on the first day; after that, distance covered will start to drop a bit.
If you have the time, do progressively longer day rides to get used to the bike and to "get in shape". Pay particular attention to your seating position, especially the amount of pressure on your throttle hand - after several days of riding, poor ergonomics you don't notice or ignore on a short trip really make a huge difference.
If you can swing it, consider getting an Aerostitch Road Crafter or Darien suit. Definitely get a Camelbak hydration system - you'd be surprised at how quickly you dehydrate on a bike. Wear earplugs (I like the disposable AO safety plugs) to cut down on windnoise and fatigue. Don't worry, you'll still hear traffic just fine! Carry a tire repair (plug type) kit. The best I've found, and only one I carry is made by "Stop 'n Go". I also carry a small 12 volt tire inflator (CO2 cartridges are flakey) and digital tire guage.
Pay attention to your tire wear (the rear in particular) and air pressure, and be very careful in how you secure items to the tail rack or pillion seat.
I've done the trip your contemplating several times on my ST1100; you're in for a real treat!
Have fun, be safe, and keep the rubber side down!
Best wishes,
Chris
2006-08-01 18:15:02 · answer #1 · answered by sail2xxs 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Take some bottled water with you, granola bars for snacks. Stop every two hours or so and stretch your legs, check your bike over (wheels, chain or belt, look for oil seepage, etc.). Scope out the scenery while you are stopped.
Stay to well-traveled roads(I'm not saying don't take a side trip if you want), if you break down there will be a higher chance of getting help sooner.
Try not to be in such an all-fired hurry to get there. Slow down and soak up the scenery.
I took a trip from Dallas to Victoria Island in Canada. Had a blast. Just take your time and enjoy the view.
2006-08-01 13:48:55 · answer #2 · answered by Albannach 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Long rides are hell on ya cuz you can't haul everything you need, like you can in a car or truck. Be sure and take foul weather gear (raincoat or slicker) Pick a regular schedule for stopping to rest and stretch, like ever couple of hours or so, don't ride till you get tired. You get dangerous when you get tired.
2006-08-01 13:49:35 · answer #3 · answered by J P 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't be in a hurry. Stop a hundred times a day if you feel like it to take in sights and pussyfoot around. Allot yourself enough time to make it a casual ride, and it will be that much more enjoyable. Pick up one of those "off the beaten path" type books and research your trip to carry you close to places of interest.
And lots of sunscreen. SPF one gajillion.
2006-08-02 05:36:11 · answer #4 · answered by armored_dillo 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with every one else. All good answers. I would add go out and buy a sheep skin. They are so much better than the gel seats. When they get dirty you can throw them in the washer and hang dry. If you are camping you can use the sheep skin as a pillow also. Buy a sissy bag, to put your rain gear in. Buy a pair of waterproof boots to keep your feet dry.
2006-08-03 13:08:44 · answer #5 · answered by chad R 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Best thing to do is check out the IBA website
IBA stands for Iron Butt Association, there the real experts when it comes to long hauls on a bike.
2006-08-01 16:43:00 · answer #6 · answered by Greg P 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
We visited a friend in TX. Rode from Cleveland. We stopped every hundred miles or so for a cigarette and a pee break. I sent most of my clothes UPS to lighten the load.
2006-08-01 13:54:40 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pretty much everything has been said. Especially on the first answer. Enjoy it, take your time. You may never get this chance again.
2006-08-02 05:50:40 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't wear underwear! If you get a wrinkle in it on your butt you get saddle sores, then the trip is no fun.
2006-08-02 01:58:50 · answer #9 · answered by goolinbursti 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get a gel pad to sit on. makes it much more plaesant.
2006-08-01 16:09:48 · answer #10 · answered by Motorpsycho 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋