50cc - Ya Baby!!!! [Archive] - Colorado Sportbike Club Forums

Harry Biker

Fri Nov 8th, 2002, 07:35 AM

:D Hello Gary,
Always nice to have a familiar biker to chat with. We'd love to have another rider!!!

Sadly, I do not have a great bike to do a timed long distance ride with..the FZ1 is really only good for commuting and spanking little Spider's butt's in the tight stuff......yes I'm talking about you,(and I think I've now caught you in the old odometer dept 8) )

The Harley which I'll likely be taking, although is comfy, it's about 10mph too slow for a nice sustained speed,( just under the watchful eye of radar) and the fuel range is pathetic for a tour bike! I guess our friends in Milwaukee felt that a 180 range is far enough between beer joints :wink:
Just kidding we all owe our current Jap rides to our friends in Milwaukee,(read your history Henry)

anyhoo......

Let's do the 50CC this year. We all need the practice anyhow and the 4 corners is, well, HARD TO DO!! However, I do believe it will be done by riders from the CSC in the near future.

Gary, we're doing a practice saddle sore 1K and then we'll have to get back home too, so potentially 2 SS1K's to ride to THE MECCA OF BIKER GEAR/GADGETS in Duluth after the thaw, albeit not to far away from the actual "50CC". So, my suggestion is to really give it some thought,(spend some time on a map and anticipate how you'll be feeling and invision making this EPIC ride that you can brag to your dog about!)

Obviously the Super Hawk ain't the bike to do this on. But I know you have the desire to go long and you've felt that way for sometime,(Vegas # 2)

We should meet up and attend the Cycle World International MC show,(I think it's 12/21) WELCOME BACK AFTER 5 FRICKING YEARS!!!!
AND BUY YOU A STEED WORTHY OF THE IRON BUTTERS!!!!

Try to keep the Super Chicken though as I do miss mine. :(

Keep in touch.
Harry Biker

gary n

Fri Nov 8th, 2002, 08:50 AM

Harry,

I have been following the Iron Butt riders for the last couple of years so I know what is involved both mentally and physically. After last years rally one of the participants had a 10+ page story of his trip from Alabama to Alaska and back. I don’t want to do that but a fast blast across the country and a little more relaxed trip back would be fun. Maybe a detour through Deals Gap/Tail of the Dragon?

I have two 4,000 mile trips under my belt now but the were both under more relaxed conditions. The first was a loop from Montana to Washington, down the coast to Los Angeles and back up through Vegas, the Tetons and Yellowstone - on Honda CL350’s with all our camping gear too. We only spent two nights indoors, the rest of the time was camping with a cheap survival tube tent. The last one was from Dallas to Sturgis in 1999. It was a little easier since we stayed in motels along the way

I’ve had my eye on a used CBR1000 with low miles. That may be the bike to do this on. I can’t spend a lot of money on a bike right now. I have a cruiser I have been trying to sell on consignment in Dallas. If it doesn’t sell soon, I may just go pick it up. I would certainly provide the comfort for trip like this - rubber-mounted engine and a wide, comfy Mustang seat but the gas mileage is worse than yours and I don’t know how you guys would feel about the 2 1/4” straight pipes after a couple of days.

I would really like to do this. I will start my research/preparation now and hopefully it all will come together for me.

Gary

Harry Biker

Fri Nov 8th, 2002, 05:10 PM

:D 2 1/4 rock! Loud pipes save lives ya know :shock:
My Twin Cam ain't exactly quiet either 8)
Henry will likely look like this after riding next to us :D :shock: :) :x :oops: :evil: :twisted:

I wear ear plugs anyhow and will be listening to some Zombie and checking for smokie bandits good buddy.

That is unless Henry the gadget mystro gets us all wired in on the family channel so we can all listen to WHITE ZOMBIE :twisted:

What kind of cruiser ya got?

Anonymous

Fri Nov 8th, 2002, 06:02 PM

..the FZ1 is really only good for commuting and spanking little Spider's butt's in the tight stuff......yes I'm talking about you,(and I think I've now caught you in the old odometer dept 8) )

Don't you be talking smack about me old man! :twisted: :lol:

We only rode the tight stuff together once this year... way back in May, just after I got the R1, and (more importantly), before I started hitting the track. I highly doubt there would be any spanking going on anymore. And yes, I am getting my knee down (in fact, it's down in one of the pics in my sig).

As for mileage, it's kind of hard for me to rack up any significant mileage when practically all I'm doing with the bike is commuting (40 miles round trip) 3 days a week.

I would love to do a 50cc or 4 corners (yes, even on my R1, although I'd have to carry an extra tank of gas), but my wife isn't as understanding as yours, and like I said, my vacation for next year is already spoken for. :(

L8R "Pops",
Spidey

gary n

Fri Nov 8th, 2002, 08:26 PM

Harry,

It's a Big Dog Vintage. It was built to resemble a '62 DuoGlide. Everything is powercoated/painted black except the front end, cam cover, rocker boxes, primary housing, pipes, oil tank, shocks and swingarm which are chrome.

It has a rubber-mounted frame with outboard rear shocks (not a soft tail). 80 inch S&S evolution motor with Andrews cam and S&S Super E carb. It moves ok for a cruiser.

It was originally built for Richard LaPlante, the author of Hog Fever. I've put over 15,000 miles on it and really enjoyed it. I was just looking for something with more handling and performance for the mountains and canyons after I moved up here.

Gary

Harry Biker

Fri Nov 8th, 2002, 09:29 PM

:lol: Spidey, I was just checkin if you had your ears on. You're still my super hero :wink: However, as far as the wife goes...the way I see it, you get 3 weeks paid vaca/year. 2/3 spent w/ the wife & kids,(not to mention all the big holidays) is to be expected.

BUTT....1 OF THOSE WEEKS SHOULD BE SPENT RIDING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!w/ the boys and ok girls too,(did the Alicia I know get an RC51?)
and I'm not talking the monthly twist w/ the crew. I'm talking getting away from these contraptions I'm keying on, faxes, pagers,(ok you can keep your cell phone as you never know when the Fantastic Four might need your help, but you know what I mean)

Ok spend yer 3 weeks in Euro Disney in '03, but I am going to your home country for sure in '04,(I really want to do the Cabbot Trail & surrounding area) So be a good little spyder and tell the wife that in 19-20months you're gonna be tour guide to Quebec & Nova Scotia and possibly New Foundland. I don't speak French and will surely get screwed reserving a ferry without you.

Gary,
I read that book,(didn't care for it too much) I surprised you have a "clone"! Why didn't you say so?? Sounds like a cool scoot. I used to have a 96"S&S Ultra Patriot but traded for the FLHTCUI.

I've got a suggestion for you for a higher speed tourer,(assuming you don't get the predessesor to the Mighty XX) in fact I might start looking for this bike too. BMW R100RS all day ergos, 250 mile range a 135 mph top speed, but it'll do 110 mph all day long.

Nick_Ninja

Sun Nov 10th, 2002, 08:37 PM

Harry, like you I wear 1 ear plug :P . I also cram the radar detector into the other ear :twisted: . Electronic countermeasures are a must, especially when riding LONG distances. You can become complacent after long periods of time in the saddle and that blast of synthesized noise can be a life saver and currency saver.

Five summers ago three of us went to CANADA. We covered 7K miles in 23 days. 1500 of those were here in Colorado on Ride The Divide http://www.concours.org/co/rtdmain.htm sponsored by the Concourse Owners Group http://www.concours.org/.

We averaged 300 mile days and sometimes traveled 600 miles in 12 hours. On the way back into Colorado the regulator rectifier on the ZX-11 went out in beautiful Bountiful, Utah (NOT). John Hopperstad, noted MRA #1 plate holder, works for a shop there that we initially were scheduled for a tire change. We spent 48 hours there waiting for a new part FedExed in overnight and then installed.

We ended up leaving Bountiful (just north of Salt Lake City) at 1 PM and bolted south headed toward Montrose, Colorado. We parked the bikes in front of The Red Barn at 7:30 PM. No dilly-dallying occurred on that section of the trip. :twisted:

gary n

Mon Nov 11th, 2002, 03:44 PM

Harry,

I bought the clone because the price was right and I fell in love with it at first sight. I was planning on getting a Harley but not for a couple of years when this one showed up.

I'm on the same page as you about the BMW. I've been looking at the R1100S since the summer. Either the Boxer Cup model or the limited edition race replica model they just released. I just hate to spend that much money. I can get the CBR1000F and have $8-10K left over for traveling money (or keeping the Superhawk). I think the CBR will keep up with the Electraglide and Henrys RF900.

I've been thinking about the 50cc some more and I may meet you two in Houston or somewhere mid-country and do the last half of the cross-country trip and the return trip. This would cut out the Denver to San Diego part also. It's still a ways off so there's time to decide.

Gary

Harry Biker

Tue Nov 12th, 2002, 07:49 AM

:) Hey Jeff,
You must know Randy Bishop? I think I sold him my Corbin saddle off my '99 Concorse. I never did make a ride with this bunch, but I do get their e-mails still for that one day.........

Gary,
I went looking last weekend and Apex Cycles in the Springs has a clean '94 cbr1000 red white & black,(nice paint job) for under 5K$. Also in the Springs, the local BMW shop had that race replica r1100s with the fancy cowling, carbon fiber head covers and paint job. The bike is stunning!! It's also ironically 1300 cheaper than the standard R1100S,(I think because it lacks ABS) The bike is so good looking you may not want to ride it though. They alo have the 3 R1100RT's all w/ 20K + miles on em and he'll sell for $10,500,(in a month you could likely knock another grand off). Same dealer also has a very clean Triumph Trophy 1200 for $7500 and you can find it on e-bay too.

I hope you reconsider doing this trip. You'll have a hard time finding us in Houston and we'll be on the clock,(not to say that couldn't happen) but we'll hopefully be doing more of these longer rides in the future. Plus, I'd like to attempt one of the famous rallies such as the Utah 1088, you know what I'm talking about.

Last Saturday,Henry & I got caught,(ok went looking for the snow) and the bikes just got slimed w/ mule snot/muck/snow etc. The bikes were so dirty that it'd be half difficult to buy such a pretty bike,(the r1100s replica) and have it get that filthy. I would not be surprised to see that bike end up in a Guggenheim art show.

gary n

Tue Nov 12th, 2002, 10:12 AM

I REALLY want to do this trip. My concern is that I get bored driving cross country in a car and I don't know how I will be on the bike with the added pressure of the time constraint. The trial run to Minnesota will help sort that out.

A couple of questions.

I know you are tenatively planning on 5/24-6/01. Is that to take advantage of the 3 day weekend? That also means more people doing their holiday travel too - more vehicles on the roads. It could be in the high 90's or low 100's in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. I've gone to the Republic of Texas ralley in Austin, Texas which is held the first weekend in June several times and it has been uncomfortable even in Harley riding gear - half helmet, tshirt and jeans. Living up here we are spoiled with the weather (in the summer), but after living Texas for the last 10 years I know it can get pretty warm by the end of May. Just a thought.

Do you plan on getting/using radios to communicate bike-to-bike? I have a Nady MRC-11 that I have used several times and it does a good job up to about 85mph when the wind noise starts to make it difficult to hear. But it is really good at slower speeds. The Nady unit is a lot cheaper than Chatterbox or the others. It retails for $129 but we got them for $85-$90 on the net. It is a handheld unit with a earpiece/mike and a push-to-talk button. I have put the handheld unit in my jacket pocket, on my belt or in my tankbag.

What are is your tenative schedule? Friday night and Saturday to San Diego? Sunday/Monday for the 50cc and Tuesday thru Sunday to sightsee and get back home? Or were you planning on resting a day in San Diego before leaving?

Harry,
Did you notice many miles are on that CBR in the Springs? The one I have been looking at is a '96 with less than 3700 miles. They are asking $4799. It is the black/charcoal gray color. I think I would like the red better. You're right about the BMW race replica being too pretty of a bike but that white and blue really grabs me.

Gary

Harry Biker

Tue Nov 12th, 2002, 12:48 PM

Gary,
You can do this ride! We can all do this ride! We'll entertain ourselves by picking on Henry :shock: :roll:

Obviously bike selection, tunes, the ability to communicate w/ one another will all help. Touch base w/ Henry....Henry, ya got your ears on??
re: communication devices. I have a CB and will likley be using that in addition to Henry's creativity w/ the family channel units from Motorola, but your system may be better. Also, speeds above 85mph will be of short durations. My preferance would be for all of us to use cb's as we can also be entertained by truckers.

Call Apex in Colorado Springs for the mileage,(sorry I did not check) Although the bike you've found sounds like a great buy.

You are right re: temps. NO way around it, we'll get hot. With good gear,(such as evaporative shirts etc) and the ability to drink while riding we'll be ok. Plus, we should cover a considerable distance of the desert @ night.
Yes then we can look forward to the humidity, but hey, that's why only 209 people have done this ride thus far :wink:

The dates were designed so we could all have 9 days to do this ride and take advantage of the Memorial Day Holiday. Most of us should only have to use 4 days of vacation time to get the 9 days off. It is also designed to have ample time to get to the starting point and give us both rest and a more relaxing pace to get home. Yes I-10 is boring for parts of it. Other sections east of Houston aren't bad. We're still in the planning stage of return route, but I gave a few suggestions to Henry earlier,(he's shy and prefers e-mails to this forum) Anyhoo, I suggested: Returning to New Orleans, or going to Hilton Head and the Dragon and then avoiding super slab on way home. It's all open for discussion.

As far as getting to SanDiego to travel West to East,(which was not the easiest decision, but it currently is felt for numerous reasons that we should travel that way) I'd like to see others that may just want to go to Vegas ride out with us. We can spend the night their and relax or crank it up to San Diego and chill out their prior to departure. Remember, although this is a very tough ride, it is my opinion that it will only be the 1st leg of the trip,(getting to Houston) that'll be so difficult. The 2nd & last leg will be a breeze! :twisted:

Memorial Day is the 26th, our big day for traveling. We'll need to watch out for drunks and yes we will have an increase in traffic. That should only be an issue in the biggest cities. We'll schedule our departure to avoid # 1 Houston's traffic both entering and leaving that city. We'll likley miss San Antonio's evening rush hour too. I think,(I'm not looking @ a map) that leaves El-Paso and Tucson to contend with which should not be too big of a deal.

I'd like to suggest that people interstested in doing this 50CC get together. Perhaps we could check out the MC show 12/21 or 12/22 and then grab a bite to eat to further discuss our options. Just think Gary, you could be the 1 and only person to ever ride a 50CC on a Super Hawk and surely you'd get your pic in Red Rider magazine :D
Yes, I know it'd be cooler to get your pic in Iron Horse Chopper rag but ya gotta start somewhere.

The Duluth ride besides being a practice ride for those that have not had the pleasure :roll: of sitting in the saddle for so long will also enable us to be registered w/ the IBA and is actually required to have a documented saddle sore 1K prior to doing the official 50cc,(thanks for checking that out HT) So, this is what you can earn: a license plate frame from the IBA,(like Dietrich has-yes even posers can get those apparently :D )
You can also earn,(if you pay for it) a SS1K, BBgold and the 50CC plaque/pins etc. Plus the Dragon pin. Not a bad way to spend 9 days :!:

Anonymous

Tue Nov 12th, 2002, 02:57 PM

Well, I might be in for this - but I definitely want to try some smaller trips first to build myself up for it. Actually I would consider taking my superhawk on this one (just drop it in 6th and cruise) just for the novelty of it, but I'd want some modifications first, like a new seat, clipons, higher windscreen, cruise control :mrgreen:, and some feet hangers on the front. Oh, and a jerry can strapped to the back... hahaha. We'll see, maybe the yamy will be ready soon and I can start riding that around - I'm still disassembling it at the moment, but the engine feels in top shape (not running yet, but it cranks under battery power just fine).

I know 500 miles would be ok, so I'd say a 1k would be good to try out, though I definitely either want my cruiser running, or my hawk modified before that.

Also - what is the proposed route, anyway? Denver to someplace in Cali I assume (but how? May as well make a nice NW-coast loop back down and enjoy the scenery, with 9 days I'm all for it), then the clock starts. Cali, through TX (by the way Harry, I've driven in San Antonio's rush hour before - it's like sunday afternoon around here, shit you'll think you're out in the country compared to Denver traffic - no worries!), I agree New Orleans would be a good stop, :D especially for some food in the french quarter if there's time to shoot down that way (not sure how the interstates run through there). Prolly just a straight shot over to some place in Florida by way of hillbilly country (I don't know any Florida geography as to where the closest coastal stop would be from there). Then how were you planning to get back home? Any way you shake it there will be a whole lotta nothin in the middle of that leg. However once completing the requirements in Florida (for several types of awards it would seem), I think some SLEEP and relaxation on a beach for an afternoon would be niiiiice. Bikes 'n babes ... what more do you need!

I'm actually getting myself psyched up for this, assuming I can stay employed between now and then and can build up my tolerance with some smaller rides, I think I'm in!

Oh in response to a previous post Harry, this forum will stay here as long as you want it to. Might change the name of it to a more generic touring category, but there are enough people in the club who like to take trips that I think it'll be worthwhile.

Harry Biker

Wed Nov 13th, 2002, 07:25 AM

Saweet! Now we can have 2 SUPERHAWKS!!!! :wink:

Unless I come into some $$$ I'll likely be on the Ultra Classic Electra Glide which as mentioned earlier does not get a great tank range and thus I was planning on carrying extra fuel which I'll carry for the Hawks too if needed,(being an ex-owner I still have a soft spot for those awesome bikes).

Mods are a must though on everyone's bike! I'm sending in my "touring seat" to Sargent MC saddles for a denser foam. Henry's already got his cruise control for .50 cents figured out and is working out the radio deal.

Is limiting the # of riders needed? Maybe. Maybe not. Of primary concern depending on total # of riders is a break down plan. ie. what do people want to do with this? Should we partner up meaning if a Zookie tranny fails should one of us stay while the others complete the ride??
I think so. However...I will not stay with a rider that just peeters out, but I don't see that as really happening. I know all of you that have posted here and have ridden with all but one of you and that guy currently has the fastest bike out of all of us and has a new Corbin to boot :!:
The other concern should we get more than say 5 riders,(I think only 5 people have verbalized interest) is gas station stops and timing....

Obviously you know by now if you've read any stories from the IBA or similar that you have to plan things like gas stops. Ideally we'll need a 45 minute stop so we can actually get off the bikes and get something good to eat,(Power Bars are good for the 1st 18-20 hours only) and refresh mind and body. To make this happen our gast stops can't be longer than 20 minutes,(and it actualy may be less than that depending on frequency needed. Can a Super Hawk traveling no faster than 85mph get 125miles??

I'll need to fill and we tentativley have planned stops in between the 150-175 mile range. Assuming with a planned running out of gas on the Hawks and you add 1 gallon in a quick,(like 3 minute) fill up to get to the planned stop I think everything will be fine.

It's been difficult to make final plans as the only commitments that I know of thus far is myself and Henry.

This I know......I think- Leaving Denver by way of Vegas,(maybe spending the night especially if Vegas # 3 people want to just go play in Sin city) and arriving San Diego no latter than dinner time on the 25th.

Most likely leave San Diego early enough on the Holiday,(or just before midnight) to arrive in Houston no later than 11pm,(with the thought being we can avoid both rush hours in Houston and escape that city no later than 5:30 am & get 6 hours sleep) FREE LODGING/FOOD in HOUSTON.

Arrive Jacksonville 850 miles (+ or-) later and RELAX. That gives us 5 days to kick back,(and the beach sounds great to me) and get home the scenic way.

SO, YOU'RE ALL GOING TO THE INTERNATIONAL MC SHOW ANYHOW RIGHT?? LET'S PICK A TIME AND DATE AND PLAN TO MEET UP THEIR AND AFTERWARDS DRINK A BEER TO GET MORE INPUT. or........

Let's pick a poser run and get together for suggestions such as best route home? Anyone have connections in either coast that'd be willing to sleep us? etc.

Nick_Ninja

Wed Nov 13th, 2002, 08:28 AM

HB and HT,

I have friends in Fontana, CA that we could ask about hanging for a night. That's about 1.5 hours from Vegas down by San Bernadino. Don't know anyone anymore in San Diego cuz they all retired from the NAVY over six years ago.

Mods are #1 in my book. Especially the bar risers. I'm using GEN-MAR risers as of now because HELI-BAR didn't make any till last month for the ZZR. Gas stops are a must just to keep focus. Lighting and reflective markings are necessary too to maintain visability while traveling on the DARK SIDE.

I'd be into getting together for telling lies and drinking beer somewhere to get all items on the table for discussion. You name the spot and time.

Anonymous

Wed Nov 13th, 2002, 09:24 AM

Harry,

With normal riding (i.e. generally nice, with the occasional drop-and-fly through traffic) I can get 140 miles before the RLOD. With some recent changes I actually got 170 miles out of a tank! (160 at the RLOD) - I'm going to explore those further just out of principle, but I have no idea how far I can get if I just put it in 6th gear and cruise at 85mph. I'll have to experiment with that out on I-76 or something where traffic won't suck so bad. I'd like to see stops at 130 miles max just to be safe, though I might be able to push her a bit farther - I just don't want to be in the middle of nothin with no gas. Though carrying some extra will help ease my mind on that one.

I'm curious ... has a sportbike ever done this ride? You mentioned that superhawks never have, I'm just wondering. I know the Harley's outnumber everything else by orders of magnitude I'm sure (for the ones that have actually completed the thing).

Nick_Ninja

Wed Nov 13th, 2002, 11:05 AM

If you want to see who all has compleated what ride (ALL IBA RIDES) and on what type of machine go here :

http://www.ironbutt.com/rides/ssbbfin.htm

Many different types of bikes and models but here is the winner:

:arrow: Oldest and smallest Motorcycle to finish the 50cc Quest:
Doug Stout 1972 Honda CB350

gary n

Wed Nov 13th, 2002, 11:27 AM

Harry,
You don't need to plan gas stops for my Superhawk. There is no way I can ride it for 5000 miles in 9 days. I guess I'm too old. If I go I will have something with better ergos and range.

Ralph,
I found a 6 gallon aluminum tank for the Superhawk. i think it's made in England and it was going to be $600-$800. The only other large tank I could find was from CarboTex and it was $1300 for a carbon fiber tank.

I pulled this from the Iron Butt site and organized it. These are all the finishers of the 50CC.
4 BMW K75
4 BMW K100LT
5 BMW K100RS
7 BMW K1100LT
13 BMW K1200LT
2 BMW K1100RS
4 BMW K1200RS
1 BMW R100RT
11 BMW R1100GS
1 BMW R1150GS
2 BMW R1100R
12 BMW R1100RT
1 BMW R1150RT
7 BMW R1100RS
1 H-D DynaWideGlide
2 H-D Electra Glide
1 H-D Electra Glide Classic
7 H-D Electra Glide UltraClassic
1 H-D Police FXR
5 H-D Road Glide
1 H-D Road Glide/sidecar
8 H-D Road King
1 H-D Sportster
1 Honda CB350
1 Honda CB750
1 Honda CBR1000
1 Honda CX500
37 Honda Gold Wing
1 Honda Gold Wing Trike
1 Honda Hurricane
1 Honda Pacific Coast
2 Honda Shadow
9 Honda ST1100
1 Honda V65 Sabre
2 Honda Valkyrie
1 Honda VTX
8 Kawasaki Concours
1 Kawasaki Nomad
2 Kawasaki Voyager
3 Kawasaki Vulcan
1 Kawasaki ZX-1100
1 Suzuki Bandit
1 Suzuki GS850GL
1 Suzuki GS1100
2 Suzuki Intruder
1 Suzuki V-Strom
1 Triumph Sprint
1 Yamaha FJ1200
1 Yamaha GTS1000
2 Yamaha R6
1 Yamaha Venture
1 Yamaha Virago

Nick_Ninja

Wed Nov 13th, 2002, 11:37 AM

:arrow: Here is a site that specializes in fuel cells for the petrol challenged :? :

http://www.eti-fuelcel.com/home.htm

Nick_Ninja

Wed Nov 13th, 2002, 01:09 PM

Here is the SAMPSON site for custom made fuel cells :P :

http://www.sampson-sporttouring.com/fuel-cells.html

Anonymous

Wed Nov 13th, 2002, 04:40 PM

I pulled this from the Iron Butt site... These are all the finishers of the 50CC.
...
2 Yamaha R6

WOW, 2 R6's did this?!?! :shock:
I'm impressed!
http://www.cosportbikeclub.org/smilies/cool.gif
http://www.cosportbikeclub.org/smilies/spidey.gif

Harry Biker

Thu Nov 14th, 2002, 07:12 AM

Man you guys are good w/ yer keyboards!! Glad to see we made it to page 2.

Thanks for showing the list of bikes Gary. Makes me think I'd like to be the 1st and only FZ1 rider to do this ride,(course that likely won't stick)
Gary, if the weather were to hold perhaps we could balst on down to Big D to get yer clone????? Course you'd have to ride "B" :shock:

I agree w/ the insect...2 R6's on this ride...AMAZING!!!!!!!!!

Wall crawler, Have you thought about my challenge for you to show us your home country next year?? Perhaps it's time for the wife to visit the parents again so you can come play with your scooter trash friends :lol:

Henry,(who's currently MIA) would just love this......
but I was looking @ the map last night & thought, yep, for the distance we'll be covering to 50CC we could make Prudo Bay :twisted:

But that can wait I suppose. Course Henry, we could add to our collection...1st the Pacific, then the Atlantic,(we could get a little Gulf of Mex if we wanted) and then we could get the ARTIC OCEAN :!: :!:

Nick_Ninja

Thu Nov 14th, 2002, 08:42 AM

Here is a link from another bunch that is out there getting a 50cc dose 8) . It seems that they have reasearched this quite a bit.

http://personal.bellsouth.net/m/n/mnwj/50cc.html

towneh

Thu Nov 14th, 2002, 10:44 AM

greetings ALL,
i've talked a lot to reps of MTF who also have a lot of goodies pertaining to 50cc and the like. they have a level of co-ordination and planning that would cause NASA's department heads to swim! here is their URL:

http://publish.bsu.edu/00amleduc/MTF/50cc/50ccsd.htm

they are beginning to set up data, etc for their 2003 c2c ride which will occur in March.

other items:
NADY units; very cool with the AUX input and the squelch/spark canceling feature but it is still a FRS. not meaning to diminish its value here but it is nice that we can still pick up the same freq so we can still use our 'old' Motorla Talkabouts.... I move that we hook Harry's on-board cb/stereo featured on his U-Glide (read:"Millennium Falcon") to a NADY unit so that we all have 'trucker talk'/tunes!!! I'm going to order up a couple of VOX earbuds (#50256) for my Talkabouts this week and testing will begin soon afterward. Gary, could we meet up with Harry in say 2-3 weeks for some random testing utilizing your NADY?

i plan to chat with my family (s.o. side..) who live at the end of route 8 ( a popular place to start the 50cc in San Diego) in the near future. i don't know how they will take it and their place is small. The fact that they are 60 to 70 yrs old may come into play as well....

i'm going to start laying out the route/validation gas stops for the Aerostitch wonderland. i've already done a lot with the 50cc route but still playing variables for the mid-point... although it would be nice to have it where it would be free (Harry's dad's place), there is a lot to be said for a straight thru..... the iba folks have no problem with a loop back to the 'free' option so long as we sufficiently document the route we take (see the iba rules for route documentation). the route/validation gas stops that the MTF takes which can be best described as "straight thru..." is available for our use; it is accurate and tested..... FREE! planning continues....

so, make fun of me on my old, quiet sportbike will you !?!?! :twisted:

later,
henry :D

Nick_Ninja

Thu Nov 14th, 2002, 12:28 PM

I will be packin camping gear. Mission Bay has a campground.

gary n

Thu Nov 14th, 2002, 01:26 PM

Henry, I don't know if you remember but I met you on the the ride we did to the Bucksnort Tavern on ride-to-work-day this summer. As for bikes - I think yours is great for this kind of trip but they are even harder to find than the older CBR1000F's I'm looking at.

I'm not tied to the Nady radio, it's just bought and paid for so I would rather not duplicate it. I didn't even think about CB radios until Harry mentioned it. I would prefer to have one to listen to the truckers for road conditions, smokey reports and just general entertainment for those long straight stretches. Does anyone know who makes a earpiece/mike and push-to-talk button? Now, do I mount an 8' whip to the swing arm or dual firesticks on the bar ends?

Harry, I'm not quite ready to pick up that bike in Dallas. I'll give them a little more time to sell it. And I certainly don't want to ride *B* all the way down there. If I go, it will be this winter so I have time to do some mods before spring.

towneh

Thu Nov 14th, 2002, 07:56 PM

greetings all,

gary>>>
yes, i do remember you now. it is a good thing there weren't a lot of people with us that day....

absolutely, keep and use your NADY unit. it has special features that are specific to use on a motorcycle. many of the places that sell it include a headset (?) that has PTT (push-to- talk) and the unit is VOX capable. here is a URL to see what i'm talking about:
http://www.wildwestelectronics.net/mrc-11.html

if you don't have one of these jewels, you could search the net to find one at a good price.

i've got a pair of Talkabouts; one for my spouse and one for me. i've done the net search for the Talkabout VOX earbud X 2. i'd get them anyway because we've found the key microphone/speaker units to be bulky. i'm anxious to try the earbuds on the motorcycles with harry and you.... lets find out if we can tolerate the 'plain jane' radios.

jeff>>>
camping at mission bay sounds interesting. i think i need a compression bag for my sleeping bag. i've got to start budgeting for necessary 'toys'.

tires, tune-up, radar detector, radio(?), fuel cell(?), flip-up windshield, heli bars(?), aerostitch suit and wiper, and some bags (i.e. saddle/tail)....... say....... Santa ?!?!?

later,
henry :D

Harry Biker

Fri Nov 15th, 2002, 05:53 PM

It's FRIDAY!!!!!!!!

Camping!? I'd camp on the coast! Hopefully there's no sand flees :shock:
Also camping on the way home in or near state/National parks would be awesome. My bike will easily chill > 1 case of beer 8)

However, I'll likely hotel it the last sleep before the Bun Burner Gold. Call me a wuss if you will.......I may also choose this route over sleeping @ Henry's relatives if I end up on the floor,(which I'll assume is likely). Don't forgert campers that unless we use a police department,(which should not be our 1st coice for a witness) that you'll have to break camp potentially quicker than usual.
That may be an issue in Houston too,(sleeping on a floor) as theirs only so many beds/couches so we should think more about that.

I remember the last guy that called me a wuss...for leaving the pool area in Vegas the night before the trip back. I went to bed @ 10:30-ish for a 5am wake up call. He went to bed between 3:30am & 4am after drinking 20 beers!!!!! My hero!??
I must admit @ that moment I did not feel worthy :cry:

Course, after gassing our steeds
a whopping 90 miles after departure and this hearty sole,( 1/2 founder of the CSC) collapsed next to the ice machine & couldn't get up very well....I started to feel better about myself :D

It's starting to sound like we just might have 4 riders!!!

Gary, you don't like riding "B"? :lol:

I have a little story.........long story short.
I had a "Clone" that I wanted to trade for a Harley "bagger" in Vegas. 30 minutes before my departure my neighbor showed up w/ $15,500 cash and bought my bike. I also had $4K on me. So I called my friend who was to do the ride w/ me and told him to meet me @ my house as we had a change in plans.

He was not happy either that he had to ride me "B" all the way,(we took turns) but there was no way I was not going to take a bike vs a car/truck.

Anyhoo...500 or so miles into the trip it hit me like a brick!? Why was I now going to Vegas to buy a bike doh!! Not to mention I had just shy of $20K cash on me,(not a safe feeling) So I opted to buy my friends bike right there! He said nope. For the next 100 miles I kept raising the price and the greedy bastard kept saying no.

I ended up buying the bike I'll be most likely riding the coasts with you guys and his bike......it blew up 1 week after getting home :lol:

Nick_Ninja

Thu Nov 21st, 2002, 09:17 AM

So HB,

What is the reasoning of traveling this proposed route from WEST to EAST :?: :?:

Why would you want to go against the sun and time zones :?: :?:

Just asking and still open to either or....... :shock:

towneh

Thu Nov 21st, 2002, 10:44 AM

hi jeff,

harry thought the drive to the west would be shorter before getting into the 50cc. we'd also like to invite the Sportbike crowd to join us enroute to Las Vegas..... But, west-to-east riding was mostly for my benefit being a total 'newbie' for long distance riding AND that we'd be 'fresher' for the start.

in theory... going west-to-east we experience riding into shorter sunrises instead of longer longer sunsets goin' the other.....
(deep thoughts by jack handy...)
anyway you look at it, it is a LONG time on the road under just about any/all conditions.

later,
henry (aka neo-fyte :)

Harry Biker

Thu Nov 21st, 2002, 02:16 PM

Henry pretty much summed up my thoughts, but I'm on a break so I'll add to it.

We'll not only be fresher to start the timed run leaving Cali vs Leaving Florida, but we'll also be fresher @ dawn then dusk.

Yes we do lose out on a little day light traveling the opposite direction the sun is setting, but I don't know about you, but I've been on rides in the desert as the sun was setting, sweat and sun screen dripping into my blinding eyes for whatr seemed like 4 hours straight or more, it was not fun.

The other issue is the option of free lodging and an automatic witness who's a cop in Houston for the VERY difficult "BB Gold" that I'm/we're shooting for. If we go the other way, I'll need to find someone in the middle of almost nowhere.

towneh

Mon Nov 25th, 2002, 07:36 PM

greetings all,

i'm somewhat disappointed with our (harry et moi) attempt with the frs on the motorcycle... they were way too light, the mikes were too fickle, and there was a lot of erratic feedback.

i'm guessing that the NADY units with the helmet mike/earpiece do great things with squelching/suppression and the like.... (Gary, please 'chime in' here if you've got experience that answers the begging question of performance!!! -- aye or nay please).

i have found the 'going rate' is around $80 which yields the unit, ptt
headset, shi, etc.

Gary, do you have the helmet headset AND have you used it with others while cruising down the road ?

thanx,
henry

Harry Biker

Wed Nov 27th, 2002, 08:01 AM

Greetings fellow would be travelers. I know it's cold out,(course I did ride mine today :lol: ) and it may be difficult to have the neurotransmitters fire to think about anything other than turkey and/or Santa, Hanuka Charlie for our Jewish friends......

But, we have some decisions to make.

step1) decide if you're gonna ride! After that you're home free :twisted:

My request would be something like this.....

You've commited to 50CC by 2/1/03 and

Any reservations needed prior to and during the 50CC are made by 2/28/03. Also, we will not change times/routes/lodging after this date either,(for the timed ride).
I do not care if people want to go see Disney World prior to going home,(I don't) or anything else for that matter. Once the clock stops and we sucessfully complete this ride some may choose to hang out and/or take a different ride home or go see their Aunt Nellie.

If for some reason you find yourself unable to commit by Feb 1st, but feel something may open up in your life that would still allow you to do this ride, I don't have a problem with that. Just don't expect to make changes to the itinerary and you may be on your own come motel/camping time.

Also, I feel and apologize if I've already stated this- that we should limit the # of riders riding the entire stretch together to 4. If we end up w/ 6 riders,(which would be great), I believe we should have 2 groups of 3 or something like that as we can't afford a delay w/ 6 people waiting in line to use the john etc.

In addition, it's perhaps better to choose now if you want to partner up with another rider for things like breakdowns etc. I can assure you that nobody riding in my group will be left stranded for the buzzards, however, it's kind of a 1st come 1st serve kind of deal. I have chosen to ride this ride to the finish or be a DNF,(did not finish) if either myself or Henry has a catastophic bike failure. Thus, if Henry's Zookie implodes, both of our rides are done. If another rider's bike fails, I'll get them to safety and meet them back in Denver after I finish this ride.

Do we currently have anyone else that has fully commited to this ride besides myself and Henry?

Nick_Ninja

Wed Nov 27th, 2002, 09:17 AM

I am going. :D :!: I am camping. 8) I am finishing. :!: I am going crazy waiting for this date to arrive :shock:

Harry Biker

Thu Nov 28th, 2002, 02:18 PM

And Jeff makes 3 :D :!: AWESOME!
What about camping after the 1500? Is that your plan @ least for now?
If so, we are shooting for Beumont area just East of Houston.

What are you thoughts as far as getting to San D. Would you prefer to iron butt it early on the 24th,(for the record, I could leave as early as 3pm on the 23rd if that interests anyone), or sleep in Vegas, or even bypass Vegas all together and travel South and then West vs I-70-I-15.

Are you planning an getting a CB?
Harry

Nick_Ninja

Fri Nov 29th, 2002, 02:09 AM

For the record I would prefer to travel with the sun and the time zones. (period).. If your reasoning is situated solely around accommodating fellow CSC travelers for a pre trip yak yak in Vegas well.......... they could join up on an East to West itinerary and cruise @ whatever speed deemed necessary to make San Diego. THEN WE COULD PARTY OUR ASSES OFF IN SIN-CITY TIL THE COWS COME HOME. Still I'm open for discussion....... REMEMBER -- THIS IS OUR TRIP. I DON'T FEEL A COMMITMENT TO ACOMODATE THOSE WHO ARE NOT COMMITED TO THE FULL BLAST. I would rather make the commitment to travel more hours to the east then to the west without guaranteed accommodations in the Huston area. Any way you look at it there will be one night on the road (6 hours at best) then crank in’ it on to the last stop…… get my drift. I’d rather spend my debauchery moments in Vegas than in Jacksonville FL. (Unless we do this in MARCH and go to DAYTONA :!: )

gary n

Fri Nov 29th, 2002, 09:14 AM

Harry,
I will have to hold out until closer to February 1 to commit. It will depend on how things are looking at work and if I get a bike that will work for this adventure.

Henry,
About the radios. I have used the Nady units on two separate weekends. Each weekend we rode about 700 miles. Here are my thoughts.

We have the MRC-11 units with the flexible metal gooseneck connecting the earpiece and microphone. I think it works best if you position the mic right under your bottom lip. I zip tied the push to talk button onto the throttle cable housing which worked really well. The radio can be clipped to your belt, put in a jacket pocket or in your tankbag. My friend used a special fanny pack from Radio Shack that has many pockets for communications/audio gear. He was also able to fit a CD walkman and other stuff in it too.

The radios worked well up to 80-85 mph. after that it was getting a little hard to hear because of the wind noise. They were really good at slower speeds (45 mph and slower)- when you are entering a town and deciding where to stop for gas/food. 3 AAA batteries lasted all weekend and were still good.

The only negative about the Nady units is that you do have to contend with all the wires. The Chatterbox units which attach to your helmet eliminate them but are much more costly.

After thinking about this for a while, I think I would prefer a CB radio if a compact one can be found that has a earphone/mic and PTT capabilities like the Nady radio. It would be nice to be able to listen/talk to truckers for road conditions etc.

If you are going to be on the toy run I will bring it with me so you can see it.

Gary

Anonymous

Fri Nov 29th, 2002, 09:31 AM

Let me see what I can come up with for CB's... Maybe I can bust out my mad bike-ninja skillz and rig it up for bikes, i.e. better cable management, 12v to run off the bike instead of needing to replace batteries 5 times during the trip, etc.

Assuming I go I'm also planning on some GPS navigation, plus we should all have tankbags with the paper backups (i.e. maps!) just in case.

Harry Biker

Sat Nov 30th, 2002, 10:38 AM

Democracy works for me. Thus I say we take a vote. People that have commited get 2 points and people that have yet to decide get 1 point /vote.,(that sounds fair right)? I only know of 6 riders thus far that should be voting: Harry, Henry, Jeff, Ralph, Gary and Dalton.

Just to clarify 1 last time my rationale for going West to East,(and it's not for potential sporties to get to Vegas, that was last on the reasoning rictor scale)

#1) I'll assume I currently have the most experience in long distance touring ABOVE 1000 miles in 24 hours-maybe not, but....the most I've ever ridden in 24 hours thus far,(and it's not worthy) is 1130 miles in 19 hours. Although I actually did feel fresh @ that last gas stop and new I could've gone further, I was pretty fried the next day.

It is 1750 miles from Denver to Jacksonville,(taking the East to West route) and that MAY be just far enough to fry out some riders or even 1 rider so as to prevent them from even doing the 50CC! Do we want to risk that?

#2) Give me the setting sun @ my back ANY DAY vs the setting sun blinding me for hours in my face. I'll go out on a limb here and state that nobody prefers to drive with the setting sun blinding them! I believe all drivers/riders/walkers would prefer to have the sun go down as you head EAST. Now, add semi high speed and time zones keeping that sun up longer in your eyes. I experienced that yesterday skiing and was blinded for 2 runs while on the lift and it sucked!! Obviously this is a non-issue traveling North or South, but you want to travel extreme West in the desert!?

So, what's the real issue here-? Could it be FEAR? Fear of the dark, fear of hitting a deer etc. etc?? I respect the potential hazzards that the dark can bring out. especially with deer, but the reality of this EPIC ride is we will not escape the dark. Will 2-3 more hours of blinding light increase your odds? Is it more dangerous to be riding in the blinding light that gets magnified in the desert sand vs. 3-4 bikes riding close together with their high beams & PIAA's lighting up the night,(not to mention the cooler temps)

#3) If we time it right, we should be able to lessen the degree of intense heat that will be west of El-Paso. Yes, I know the entire trip will be hot, but not as hot as it is in desert of Cali, Arizona and New Mexico.

#4) Automatic cop/biker witness!!! who lives 1470 miles from SanDiego, thus making one issue easier for the BUN BURNER GOLD,(did I mention I really want this pin) and free lodging IF we wanted it.

#5) Jeff's camping- which means he can literally sleep almost anywhere,(don't forget your "screaming meanie"). For the remainder of us less- hardy riders, it'll be easier to find lodging after 1500 miles going West to East vs the other way. Van Horn TX. anyone?

So, that is my "story" why my vote is to travel West to East-"2-points",(nothing but net) :lol:

If you vote the other way,(and please everyone vote) don't forget your 8)

SIDE NOTE: Henry came up w/ a pretty good way to carry extra fuel. REI and similar stores carry fuel bottles primarily used for backpacking/camping. The 1 liter bottels sell for approx. $10.they are very light aluminum, have an o-ring to stop leaks and they are easily portable. I think I'll be using these in place of the plastic gas cans. Chances are, these won't be needed except for maybe a Super Hawk. However, I have experienced while traveling a planned gast stop in the middle of Wyoming and this station actually ran out of gas themselves!! Talk out feeling like you just got punched in the stomach! So, ideally every rider carries a little extra fuel.

ONE LAST THING....
With the toy run next Sunday, assuming you're riding in it- Can the 50cc-ers get together after it for lunch and discussion? Should be a good opportunity to get together.

Harry Biker

Sat Nov 30th, 2002, 10:45 AM

Jeff,
I just got Rider mag in the mail and they have an article titled "operation silk purse" that may interest you & your spunky ZZR-12.

Harry Biker

Sat Nov 30th, 2002, 10:46 AM

that would be, "silk purse" not sill purse :oops:

gary n

Sat Nov 30th, 2002, 11:42 AM

Here's a complete package for the CB radios that I found. It's a little pricey but not bad for all you get - just plug and play.

http://sierra.safeshopper.com/41/505.htm?227

In case the link doesn't work it's at:

www.sierra-mc.com

Anonymous

Sat Nov 30th, 2002, 01:43 PM

Harry, I'm down for meeting up after the ride next Sunday to talk about stuff.

Gary, thanks for the link! I almost forgot about the weather radio part, YES we need that! We're travelling through Texas and points east right in the beginning of the strongest part of storm season (plus tornado alley coming back home). There is a high probability we will experience severe weather along this trip including high wind, rain, hail, maybe worse. Plan on it and pack accordingly.

Sounds like that CB package would work well, now what about the helmet headsets? That package needs a 12v power cord too, and probably some bike rigging. If people are not comfortable messing with the power on their bike like that, I'd be happy to have a "rig day" whereby you can all bring your bikes over to my house, use the BBQ grill (someone's buying my burgers for this), and I'll hook it all up for ya, since I have pretty much everything one might want for electrical jobs here already.

Nick_Ninja

Sat Nov 30th, 2002, 05:04 PM

So, what's the real issue here-? Could it be FEAR? Fear of the dark, fear of hitting a deer etc. etc?? I respect the potential hazzards that the dark can bring out. especially with deer, but the reality of this EPIC ride is we will not escape the dark. Will 2-3 more hours of blinding light increase your odds? Is it more dangerous to be riding in the blinding light that gets magnified in the desert sand vs. 3-4 bikes riding close together with their high beams & PIAA's lighting up the night,(not to mention the cooler temps)

With the stock dual beam headlights that I have blazin' out front (and the additional PIAA 1100X driving lamps going to be installed prior to take off) I doubt that night visability of hazzards will be too much of a factor. I have had the unfortunate encounter with two deer in my riding escapades , the last being over 120,000 miles in the past. I don't intend to add a third notch to the Buck Knife :twisted: .

:arrow: Harry, FEAR has nothing to do with my vote to travel East to West. But it really doesn't matter. In 50 hours I'll be snoozin in the Jacksonville or San Diego Marriott (I prefer SanDiego) with an order of room-service, lots-o-champaign, and a fine Havanna cigar. I guess I will see you guys on the toy run :wink: .

gary n

Sat Nov 30th, 2002, 09:42 PM

Anonymous

Sat Nov 30th, 2002, 11:27 PM

The CB kit includes:
Cobra HH38WXST 40 channel cb with weather radio
J&M RHD-10 headset
PTT harness (which accepts any 5 pin din dynamic headset, J&M or Hondaline)
Heavy duty mounting plate with stainless steel hardware

I'm not sure about power, but it should be as easy as connecting to the battery.

Also - that CB is HUGE! The midland is a lot smaller it looks like, and has a neat little adapter with a cig lighter adapter (I can make some plugs for that for the bike pretty quick). I do like those handlebar mounts they have, that plus the headset cable (plus a headset - note this is not included, still need that part) would be nice. I'd also like some way to mix in a CD player or something, and output from a radar detector; their prices for the audio "integration" things are ridiculous, I'm going to check around and see what else I can find there.

The power should be fused, and should likely come off an accessory wire (like headlights or something). Would be the least impactive that way I think. We'll see, as we get closer and get a headcount I can order all the parts at once from some place like digikey and get a quantity discount or something.

I like the idea of riding to the west first, then East on the 50cc as well. If people want to ride with to Vegas that's fine, but I intend to spend as little time there as possible (the town just doesn't do it for me) so I will not be massaging my schedule to meet theirs. That's about what Harry's thoughts were I think too.

I can camp some of the time as well, though after a LONG day of riding, I'm sure as f'in hell gonna want a hot long shower and possibly something soft to sleep on. An entire week of riding and sleeping on the ground, showering in tents, will quite possibly make me want to beat someone by the end.

Harry Biker

Sun Dec 1st, 2002, 02:39 PM

Page 3 :!:

www.jmcorp.com should also be considered. I'm currently using their products in my helmet system and the quality of the speakers is very good.

I do have a weather band on the "dresser", so if you'd have to pay xtra for that consider that I do have one and with a quality cb radio with a range of 5 miles or so, good vision and nose, I believe we'd have plenty of time,(@ least Jeff will :lol:) to out run an F1-F5. On my 1st documented 1K/24 hrs, I missed an F5 tornado by 22 hours which is an eternity, but I swear I could just feel it coming!

Cb's are just a great way to go because they can and do act as a weather band, radar detector, hazzard alert etc. However,while I was drooling on the '03 BMW's yesterday,(Gary, they have $1500 off brand new R1150rt's and K1200rs's and between 500$-1000$ off most other models-assuming you wanted/could go new) I came across their FRS connection system which looked very complete,(for anyone still wanting to go this way).

Ralph, I might take you up on your offer to help me wire some driving lights.
One suggestion for all is to do all mods to your bike way before the trip as many a long distance/endurance riders have learned that the hard way with things like charging systems that could not handle the extra load, shields that caused uncomfortable buffeting and seats that just hurt. I'd also recommend a new battery for any bike who's battery is > 2 yrs old,(I got 3 yrs out of my old battery and got very lucky on my last big trip that it died slowly instead of leaving me stranded- I won't make that mistake again)

Harry

Nick_Ninja

Sun Dec 1st, 2002, 02:58 PM

I currently use a SENG/TA radar mount. It is solid at speeds well in excess of the century mark. They also have available numerous driving lamp configurations with a nifty wireing harness system that looks like a snap to install. (I already have the hookup for the Eclips Electric Vest that will work with this system. :wink:)

You can find them here:

http://www.saeng.com/cutters.htm

Harry Biker

Sun Dec 1st, 2002, 03:50 PM

Argghhh, I can't find my book that has a great packing list. I've seen a few on the net in the past, but uually just end up making my own. Prepping for a trip like this is a good portion of the fun and we all bring some shared and different ideas as to what works. With Xmas approaching my guess is we could all use something to have us well stocked so I'll share some of my thoughts and hope you do as well.

1)TOOLS. If you're only relying on what came with your bike, you're fooling yourself,(even if I'm the only one on a Harley) that nothing will go wrong. My FZ1 tank almost fell off while riding it yesterday!! know you bike!!!
...this list could be very long and Ralph seems to know his stuff so enlighten us.

2)$$$. Speaks for itself. Bring more than you think you'll need. Also, if for some reason you do not have a credit card, clean up your credit now and get one. You'll need it for your gas receipts. Possibly travler's checks.

3) TOWING PACKAGE. Hopefully we do not need this as this will most certainly mean you will be a DNF!! I've only used AAA before, not counting HOG/HONDA or other factory plans. Any one with good info on this speak up. AAA is about $130/year.

4)SPARE BIKE/LOCK KEY

5)TWO TYPES OF LOCKS

6)OWNERS MANUAL

7)EAR PLUGS. May be an issue if you have helmet mounted speakers. If your speakers are "ear buds", you can kill 2 birds....

8)TIRE REPAIR KIT AND INFLATION DEVICE

9)FLASHLIGHT/S-ROAD FLARE

10)SPARE BATTERIES/BULBS/FUSES

11)SUN SCREEN

12)SUN GLASSES X 2 OR VERYING SHADES/FACE SHIELDS

13)MEDS/ IBUPROPHEN,(prophylactic)HEALTH INSURANCE CARD

14)1ST AIDE KIT

15)TOW STRAP

16)MAP/GPS

17)CELL PHONE

18)OIL/CHAIN LUBE/RAGS

19)EXTRA FUEL-this could be dangerous. But hey, life is dangerous

20)BIKE SPECIFIC DEALER LOCATION

21)RAIN SUIT,(even the mighty Aero-Stich is not 100% waterproof)

22)CLEAN-DRY CHANGE OF CLOTHES large zip lock bags work well.

23)"LECTRIC GEAR"/OR COLD WEATHER GEAR-sun burn plus cool desert temps @ night =chilly!!

24)REFLECTIVE VEST OR SIMILAR

25)EMERGENCY WATER

26)REGISTRATION/INSURANCE LICENSE CARDS

27)CRUISE CONTROL/THROTTLE LOCK, @ the very least a trottle rocker

28)GLASSES

29)EYE DROPS

30)KNIFE/LEATHERMAN

31)MUSIC-This can be a life saver.

32)ALARM CLOCK,preferably a "screaming meanie"

33)CAMPING GEAR

34)TANK BAG-for sportbike comfort

35)BICYCLE SHORTS-again for comfort

36)SHIELD CLEANER

37)FINGER RAIN WIPER

38)COOLING SYSTEM-these vary greatly, drinking water on bike is huge!

39)GUM/HARD CANDY

40)CAMERA

41)NOTE PAD/PENCIL

42)ZIP LOCK BAG/S- for gas receipts and other uses

43)RADAR DETECTOR

44)SHOES/SANDALS

45)IBA WITNESS STATEMENTS AND RULES FOR 50CC

46)WEIGHT BELT/KIDNEY-HEAT PAD,(Portable-for the old farts)

47)CIGARS

48)EMERGENCY SURVIVAL KIT

49)SEWING KIT/EYE GLASSES REPAIR KIT

50)FIRE-LIGHTER/MATCHES

51)RIDING CLOTHES-Not gear. I've started bringing wearing old stuff and throwing it out after it's used.

52)RIDING GEAR-armored/reflective/water proof. "Subway" bags work ok for inside non-water proof boots.

53) :?: :?:

Harry biker

Nick_Ninja

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 03:14 PM

Just received word that SAENG/TA will be introducing a new Night Cutter model for sportbikes in three weeks. I've been told there is NOTHING like it out there. I hope it creates visual melt-down when applied to the black surroundings of the Mojave. Turn your mirrors DOWN toward the ground if I'm behind you :wink:

towneh

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 03:21 PM

al right, all right!!!!
i 'checked out" for the holiday weekend!

harry, jeff, gary, nd ralph >>> being the "weakest link" with the old motorcycle and no ld experience.... i opt for the west-2-east route AND leaving at 10pm from SanD and exploiting Harry's dad for a witness/flop-house. :D Then sleep for 6+hours, exiting Hous at 4am (with nominal traffic...), arriving at JacksV approx 7pm with an easy backtrack to the police station for a wittness.

ralph >>> i want to add a three-port cigarette lighter socket system to my old rf..... i've got ideas but another set of eyes keeps me honest! at this point, i want to power a midland cb 75-822 (i need ideas for a fixed baseless antenna also) AND my little GPS. i'm reluctant to add more lighting to my old rocket. the draw on the system adds up quickly and i'd rather not risk an electrical melt-down. :shock:

it would be a wonderful thing if Sunday-Santa were just like today!!!! hopefully my tires will hang in there so that i can be there!
living -on-th-edge,
henry

towneh

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 03:42 PM

oops; didn't see the Dalton ref til i read back thru the threads.....

additional info: i've got microsoft streets and trips software for 2003 that gens maps and turn-for-turn route descriptions which make a nice supplemental doc when you turn your other logging items in for validation!

my vote is in,
henry :)

Anonymous

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 03:51 PM

To add to Harry's list (maybe)

I didn't read his list in it's entirety, but here's another list which will hopefully compliment Harry's:
http://my.execpc.com/~ytk/trippack.htm

I wish I was going with you guys!

Anonymous

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 04:57 PM

Henry,

Adding the cig lighter plugs won't be an issue. And powering a CB will not be hard either, though for all the stuff you're plugging in we'd probably want to add fused wires and some other sort of quick disconnect method, cig lighters aren't terribly vibration resistant (or weatherproof). Wouldn't be hard to do it that other way and the cost would be about the same.

Check out that site with the Cobra package, they had some license-plate mounted antennas you might want to look at. Personally I like that smaller midland radio they have on there (I can't remember if it had weather radio features, will have to check); the 12v power adapter has a plug for an external antenna on it as well, so that and the fixed handlebar mount and you'd have a nice setup that didn't take much power. Not sure what the best route for a helmet headset is really...

I'm going to see what it would take to even maybe build a small circuit in a 2"x3" enclosure I can put in the tank bag, whereby I can mix together all of the audio signals I might want (i.e. CB, mp3/CD player, celly, radar detector) cleanly. I have an idea in my head, I just need to try it out and see what happens. Assuming it works out ok I'd be willing to make them for this group (i.e. the trip group, not CSC as a whole, at least not until I can get the boards mass produced) pretty cheap, since it sounds like we're all going to need something like that.

Harry Biker

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 05:40 PM

:D Spidey,
It's very cool that you're contributing,(I appreciate you forwarding that list). You know you're a frickin Super Hero!! Did Superman cave to Lois Lane?, Did Aquaman cave to Aqua chick? did Batman cave to Robin? yuck!
We could really use an almost fast bike bike just in case someone get's ascared and has to be zoomed to safety by the impressive 998! :lol:

Ralph,
Sign me up w/ you whatchamacallit thingy!! I'd love to be wired in to make a phone call while riding!! I could order a pizza or make prank phone calls to the insect while @ warp speed!

Henry,
Welcome back. I thought you/we wanted to depart @ 4am to keep people's sleep schedule a little more on the norm vs the "graveyard-shift"?

Soooo it sounds like the tribe has spoken,(although Dalton's a tad quiet) re: go East young men!! :D Where are the women bikers ?? Alicia???

Now onto the next question....
What is the best time to start the clock in San Diego? Give us your input and of course consider Houston traffic. Also consider if you can sleep pre-ride to awaken @ ----------? My vote is 4 or 5am to give the best? possible odds of getting some sleep.

Anonymous

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 05:48 PM

So, just to clarify ... we're of course sleeping in SD before riding like madmen (or women if any go) to Houston - where we are staying again for 6 or so hours, then riding like madmen (or women if any go) to Jacksonville, where I know I for one will be sleeping a lot, then riding back at a semi-non-mad pace? Getting confusing...

Also - what is the expected stay in the land of steers and queers? I think as long as we don't hit the main rush hour traffic we'll be ok there, the Houston highways are actually designed kinda nice with the fast moving traffic separated away from the exit/on-ramps by large pieces of concrete. Still, we should have a good alternate strategy for getting around there. I know some peeps down there as well, I know time will be uber tight but if we're eating dinner down there or something it'd be cool to meet up with them. (the gixxer.com crew...)

towneh

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 06:06 PM

Anonymous

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 06:42 PM

hello ralph,

the 75-822 by midland handheld cb comes with a rubber-ducky antenna and consumes 6 AA cells BUT reduces to a mobile unit living off a 12v source and external antenna. for a nice picture and features see>>
http://www.durhamradio.com/midland-75-822.htm

Yep, thats the one I was looking at. Shop around, I'm sure we can get 'em cheaper. Especially if we can do a group purchase of this stuff all at once, that should get us some discounts.

i like how my shoei full-face helmet fits so i'm reluctant to cut up my helmet interior for speakers.... instead, i'm thinking about some jack
re-configuration so that i can use something like these Koss earplug speakers. http://www.aerostich.com/isroot/riderwearhouse/sitemap/products/3081.html
i've also found a few places that sell small, low-profile microphones that i could glue in place on the chin bar of my shoei..... i'll probably buy this kit
http://www.soundradio.com/mc_cable.html
and integrate the Koss earplugs in lieu of the speakers. additionally, i'm thinking of solutions to their posted limitation (i.e. not capable of multiple audio input devices to-date...)

Well, that box I was talking about building would let you plug all sorts of stuff into it, including multiple microphone outputs for things like cell phones. I think that soundradio.com headphone thing would work well. I put some small headphones in my Arai not too long ago (took them back out eventually) and didn't have to modify anything to do it.

btw, thanx for more ideas for an ext antenna..... i know there is some dark science pertaining to ext antenna cable length for reception.... :wink:

Remember, the antenna cable is (and should be) shielded. you will not gain anything by messing with the length of the cable, except that longer wiring means more signal loss - though we're talking 6 feet max so it's irrelevant. If you want uber signal, get the biggest antenna you can put up with... However we're all going to be within 200 feet of each other so I don't think it'll matter. I'm planning on getting one of those license plate antennas, I think that's a great idea personally and automatically makes the wiring neat since I can run under the fairings and inside the frame without having to modify anything - literally bolt-on.

What I'm also considering is a small LED battery/electrical system monitor on this power adapter I want to build. I already have the design done for it since it's part of another device I designed a few months ago that I plan to build and sell; basically you have a row of LED's that indicate your charge condition at all times, so you don't wind up with problems somewhere in the middle of the desert. It would be like $5 extra in parts to include it... I'm going to build this stuff and use my bike as a guinea pig, and you guys can decide if you like it. I'm only going to make one design however (i.e. the power harness will come with the LED monitor, it's not an option) so whatever I end up with is what you guys end up with. :mrgreen:

towneh

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 06:46 PM

hello harry et all

" I thought you/we wanted to depart @ 4am to keep people's sleep schedule a little more on the norm vs the "graveyard-shift"? "

well harry, the truth is i learned that i have a 'fickle' mode. i got to thinking about the heat of the cali/newmex/tex deserts and how there would be less traffic when EVERYONE ELSE is sleeping. that became appealing to me along with an easy witness source/etc. (yogi never responded and i'm not keen about trying to use people from the MTF tour in march) reliable people are a valuable asset! 8)

btw... you are right, my current battery is 4 winters old w/o trickle tending! REPLACE!

"more input...johnny 5",
henry

i need to find a place that i can post the "turn-for-turn" route descriptions so that we can come to some sort of consensus (sp?) :idea:

Anonymous

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 06:55 PM

btw... you are right, my current battery is 4 winters old w/o trickle tending! REPLACE!

You don't ride in the winter? Even if I'm not riding I make a point of running it every week or so for about 20 min to warm everything up, charge the battery, keep the fluids fluid, and burn out any condensation.

i need to find a place that i can post the "turn-for-turn" route descriptions so that we can come to some sort of consensus (sp?) :idea:

You can't post 'em here?

Nick_Ninja

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 06:56 PM

Henry, are you an insomniac :?: I like the idea of cruising through the desert at night myself, that way it really doesn’t matter which direction I’m headed. Because of this I will load my system with x-tra lighting :shock: and radar electronic counter measures :roll: before the cell/tuneage/cb stuff. Info only -- Dalton is NOT on the internet but I’m keeping him informed. He’ll ride with the consensus (if he goes at all).

towneh

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 07:20 PM

alllrrigght!

ralph>> i occaisionally ride the winter providing the option for ice riding is VERY nominal. yes, i do run it for a bit on every Sunday (the neighbors really appreciate it). as for the posting of 'trial' route descriptions here; i'll do it but i don't like to 'clutter' (i.e. as the routes evolve the old stuff will need to be removed so there won't be conflicting data posted....) thanx, i try it tomorrow evening... :idea:

jeff>> i've had the opportunity to work for several places where you get so charged up by the mission that you've got absolutely no idea what time it is or how long you've been at it!!! i will gladly fall in behind you with my low-beam blazing! while i appreciate radar detection devices, the cb provides a multitude of services (entertainment, smokey reports, and bike2bike commo). but then again, spaghetti cableing does not look cool

maybe i am an insomniac :roll: ,
henry

Anonymous

Mon Dec 2nd, 2002, 07:34 PM

Remember, you can delete your posts on here, or one of us mod-types can do it for ya if the need arises.

I don't like spaghetti wiring either. :D I keep everything nice and neat. I'll do all this stuff to mine so you can "try before you buy" so to speak.

Harry Biker

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 07:11 AM

Reminder-
lunch after the toy run 12/8!!
Ideally, this group rides the parade together so's we can park together. That means we need to pull the bikes in line @ Aspen Grove and most important park together once we arrive @ the hospital. There could be 10,000 people and it gets a little cluster-fu--ed in the parking garage.

I'll see you all @ Panera in HR @ 8:30am.

Any suggestions for a post-"good deed ride" where we can actually chat too? Pete's Kitchen??

Harry

Nick_Ninja

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 11:08 AM

Wynkoop Brewing Company
1634 18th St.
Denver, CO 80202

http://www.wynkoop.com/images/STORE/CATALOG%20Pictures/Wynkoop%20Stop.png

Anonymous

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 11:31 AM

You actually went out and took a picture of that?

:lol:

Harry Biker

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 11:57 AM

The "Koop" works for me!
Perhaps we can even play a little 3-ball for a beer or 2!

Jeff, Can you smoke a cigar there?

BTW, I'll be joining you for that post 50CC cigar!!!!!! We should consider a nice dinner as a group too and then light up, pop the bubbly etc. :lol:

Nick_Ninja

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 12:51 PM

rforsythe:

No. I didn't snap that photo. I snagged it off their web site. Works well huh?

Harry Biker wrote:
Jeff, Can you smoke a cigar there?

Yes you can!! Upstairs in the pool hall only.

Anonymous

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 01:20 PM

Ok, conflict with the dates...

AMA weekend! It's May 30-June 1. I know I for one am planning to be down there, partying and watching a lot of really fast mofo's go ripping around PPIR.

Thoughts?

Nick_Ninja

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 01:39 PM

Well,

I can bump it up a couple of weeks prior to Memorial Day. How about the week of May 16th. Why you ask :?: Cuz that's when ROAD ATLANTA is TENTATIVELY happening :!:

We could swing back through there and check out a REAL track :!: PPIR is not in the same league as RA.

May 16-18 Road Atlanta, Braselton, GA - TENTATIVE (Doubleheader)

towneh

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 07:21 PM

removed at this location for upgrade; same thread dated Fri Jan 31, 2003

look there for the latest turn-for-turn route description for the 50cc!!!

Anonymous

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 08:02 PM

Henry...

Wow.

Allow me to regain my senses from that one... :mrgreen:

...

Now are we sure there will be open fuel stops on the road like that in the middle of the night? A lot of BFE gas stations (yes, even on major interstates - try driving back from Nebraska at 11pm sometime down I-76) aren't open late. Also I will not make 170+ miles between stops unless I go buy a 6 gallon tank for the thing.

Harry or whoever has done something like this before: What do you recommend for physical endurance to actually handle 23 straight hours on the road like that?

Nick_Ninja

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 08:08 PM

rforsythe wrote:

Harry or whoever has done something like this before: What do you recommend for physical endurance to actually handle 23 straight hours on the road like that?

I've only done 18 hours in one day (800 miles) LOTS-O-STOPS :!: and LOTS-O-WATER :!: . Stay away from the coffee type elixers etc. PACE YERSELF :!: :!: :!:

towneh

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 08:40 PM

yes.... we have to re-work the route to accomodate the range of our most-thirsty cycle.... the posted route was using the range of harry's cycle (-10% for things like wind and aggressive behavior :lol: ). <<OR>> if the local cycle wizards can rig-up something for your cycle...

i've done lots of endurance events on the 2-pedal cycles; you've got to consume the right kind of stuff AND you've got to set your mental framework for the goal. "consume" loosely put starts after a sound rest and follows with nurturing before you need (simple drink such as an electrolyte and simple food like fig bars, power bars, granola bars, etc)
usually the 'sound rest' ref lost to my level of excitement! Jeff has stated the key to it all; PACE!!!

the fuel stops; most of the time the fuel stops are at locations that have been validated (thank you MTF...) as we approach for our departure, i will call the others for validation and check against the latest postings @ MTF.

later,
henry

btw...jeff has talked fuel cells; kind of pricey but very sweet! :wink:

Nick_Ninja

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 08:48 PM

Here are some selected reports from folks that did what we will do soon :!:

I really enjoyed Warren Harhay's documentation of his trip. VERY WELL DONE :shock:

http://www.ironbutt.com/intro/50cc/index50.htm

Harry Biker

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 09:03 PM

1st let me get this off my chest.......OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!! :cry:
Thanks, feel much better now :)

OK, so I lied :? I don't feel that much better :(

1st the easy one.....Nick- 800 miles is admirable, but not in 18 hours. Your time, our time must be in the 800 mile range in 12 hours!! This is my normal speed on endurance runs and I got to tell you it was a blistering pace, and I currently don't have the bike to do it on. I've only done that twice and it was on a Blackbird and a Concours,(which had a 7.5 gallon tank) I was also solo, which is faster. That being said however I will still complete @ least the 50CC in the alloted time and I could do it on a scooter,(i'm more worried about the bun burner gold). I believe you must have this same confidence to do this ride or you risk falling asleep while riding!!! Silly as it sounds, I sometimes have and will tell myself that there will be no dying today. I literally will myself to make that sweeper @ 140mph or stay fricking AWAKE!!!!!

Look fellas, this is something that < 250 people have ever done out of > 6 billion. Why? Cuz it's frickin HARD CORE,(ok and most people don't live in this country)

You can't afford to take this trip lightly or it'll cost you your LIFE. You either feel it in your bones to attempt this ride or you don't. If we did this ride @ Jeff's pace, we'd fail by 4 hours and not get any sleep!!!

I'm not dogging you Jeff as I can tell you have it in you to do this ride and you have a great bike to do it on,(assuming you're comfy), but you must realize your average speed including stops must be raised.

Ralph, Your cruiser almost certainly will be a better bike for this trip. Albeit this is a sport bike club, but this ride WILL HURT YOU and as you've noticed < 1% of the club as commited. If you have not already read several reports so you're as clear as can be,(without actually riding it) on what it will be like to 50CC, do it soon.

We all must get qualified to even start this ride,(assuming you want the proof that you did it from the IBA) and that will occur in the spring on a saddle sore 1K. My guess is we will lose some of you after doing that ride, but it will also give you a guage if you can do this safely.

Assuming you still want to go on the already planned dates, my best suggestion is you definately carry extra fuel and plan on running out of gas and we'll fill your tank on the road,(if you're on the Super Hawk) That's a little odd, but I've done it before on a Sporster that had a 2.25 gallon tank and @ high speed,(for a Harley) it would die @ 90 miles.

I know I'm going off on a tangent here, or as a good friend of mine might say, wow, I stepped on a land mine!!! but I'm not happy about changing the dates. I realize the AMA comes to Colorado once a year. If you really want to see them race then you know what you must do.

I've already requested and received time off and yes, I suppose if the entire group wants to change the dates I may, but it'll cost me another vacation day and I can't see changing the dates unless you are 100% commited.

Here's a few pointers to stay awake on the bike for 24 hours:
1) start getting yourself in shape with cardio and be consistant with it for the next 5.5 months.

2) 2-4 x/month,(for an entire day) eat what you will be eating on the 24 hour ride. Decide now what you will be eating. Henry already knows what he'll be eating, as do I.

3)I'd recommend staying awake for a 24 hour period @ least 2 x's before the ride to practice it. On your 2nd attempt either go workout @ the 20th hour or go ride 100 miles on your bike. Especially pay attention to drug free hallucinations and know that is to be expected.

4)Ride. Ride in the rain. Ride in the cold. I've been riding daily to work @ 6am. I'm even getting used to not pluggin in,(a little) because I feel it toughens me up.

5)If you're a big time coffee drinker or even Mountain Dew etc. cut down so you can make the ride without the stuff.

6) Any time the weather is cooperative enough and you have the time do a 200 mile trip and clock yourself. We must be able to ride 200 miles in 3 hours with stops!

7)Read. There is a new book out from a legendary rider named Ron Ayers. He has a new book out on endurance riding. You can find it @ Whitehorse press or Aero stitch.

8) You tell me? I've never come close to this kind of ride, but I know 2 things... I will not fail and I will not hurt myself. Nor do I want to do CPR on anyone.

Nick_Ninja

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 09:35 PM

An excerpt from Warren Harhay's 50cc Quest after spending the night in a subburb of Houston, TX:

I begin the only exercise undertaken for this trip by repeatedly bending over in each room corner to gather up bits of my riding paraphernalia. This stuff was strewn about the room six or seven hours ago with great abandon in the mad rush to get into bed. No rush now, I'm not going anywhere in this fog.

I hope I don't take myself too seriously on this adventure 8) .

Anonymous

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 09:55 PM

Look fellas, this is something that < 250 people have ever done out of > 6 billion. Why? Cuz it's frickin HARD CORE,(ok and most people don't live in this country)

You can't afford to take this trip lightly or it'll cost you your LIFE. You either feel it in your bones to attempt this ride or you don't. If we did this ride @ Jeff's pace, we'd fail by 4 hours and not get any sleep!!!

I'm not dogging you Jeff as I can tell you have it in you to do this ride and you have a great bike to do it on,(assuming you're comfy), but you must realize your average speed including stops must be raised.

Agreed. And I do feel it in my bones. I've wanted to do a big trip like this (albeit I never imagined half of it in 50 hours or less, but hey, it's all good) since I started riding and have considered even going solo many times since up until this little message thread I didn't know of anyone who would be crazy / I mean tough / no I do mean crazy enough to do it with me.

Ralph, Your cruiser almost certainly will be a better bike for this trip. Albeit this is a sport bike club, but this ride WILL HURT YOU and as you've noticed < 1% of the club as commited. If you have not already read several reports so you're as clear as can be,(without actually riding it) on what it will be like to 50CC, do it soon.

We all must get qualified to even start this ride,(assuming you want the proof that you did it from the IBA) and that will occur in the spring on a saddle sore 1K. My guess is we will lose some of you after doing that ride, but it will also give you a guage if you can do this safely.

Assuming you still want to go on the already planned dates, my best suggestion is you definately carry extra fuel and plan on running out of gas and we'll fill your tank on the road,(if you're on the Super Hawk) That's a little odd, but I've done it before on a Sporster that had a 2.25 gallon tank and @ high speed,(for a Harley) it would die @ 90 miles.

I've been checking with the superhawk list, since some of those guys have done long trips on them before. Getting a LOT of great feedback from them so I will evaluate my bike choice in a couple months. The cruiser will take more work to prep and being a rebuild, I have to trust it for 3000+miles. I dunno if I will have that trust by then. I know I can ride my superhawk off a cliff and it'll run. I will eval the gas thing at that time too, I will either carry external fuel somehow (safety is my concern there, if I go down and it sprays, that could be fatal), or see if I can't score a cheap 6gal tank from someone.

The saddle sore is the 24hr/1,000 mile run, correct? Will definitely be interesting to see how we all hang on that one...

I know I'm going off on a tangent here, or as a good friend of mine might say, wow, I stepped on a land mine!!! but I'm not happy about changing the dates. I realize the AMA comes to Colorado once a year. If you really want to see them race then you know what you must do.

I've already requested and received time off and yes, I suppose if the entire group wants to change the dates I may, but it'll cost me another vacation day and I can't see changing the dates unless you are 100% commited.

Noted. This is why I'm bringing it up now. Just to make sure early on we all know what is expected of each other. This is much more than a group of dudes riding, I expect we will be depending on each other quite a bit to get through this thing. We had better get used to that mode of thinking sooner than later.

Here's a few pointers to stay awake on the bike for 24 hours:
1) start getting yourself in shape with cardio and be consistant with it for the next 5.5 months.

Speaking of which, I need to hit a gym in a VERY bad way. I'm not exaggerating. I've been running nightly (when I remember to) and doing limited working out, but it's cold as fuck outside these days and I just don't stay motivated on my own. Anyone hit the gym in a location reasonably close to me, on a regular basis? Could use a bit of training there too...

3)I'd recommend staying awake for a 24 hour period @ least 2 x's before the ride to practice it. On your 2nd attempt either go workout @ the 20th hour or go ride 100 miles on your bike. Especially pay attention to drug free hallucinations and know that is to be expected.

Done. 50-hour work shift, moving an entire computer data center and re-racking several tons of server and network gear. And many, many 24 hour nights. I'll have to do the bike ride thing. It'll be fun! :mrgreen:

4)Ride. Ride in the rain. Ride in the cold. I've been riding daily to work @ 6am. I'm even getting used to not pluggin in,(a little) because I feel it toughens me up.

You plug in? Shit. I've been riding in without the benefit of heat this whole time! Guess that means I'm more toughened up than Harry... :lol: (ducks) (That line about the ice and the bike in my sig - is half serious - I hate scraping frost off the windshield!)

6) Any time the weather is cooperative enough and you have the time do a 200 mile trip and clock yourself. We must be able to ride 200 miles in 3 hours with stops!

Done that too. What I would actually suggest here, is this - don't do 200 miles of canyons. That's easy. Go find the most open, boring, straight stretch of highway you possibly can and ride that at the pace we will be riding on this trip. 200 miles over 3 hours averages to about 66mph. So, if you can average 70-75mph, that will let you hit a fuel stop with time to spare. Do that one way then back, personally I don't think it's the riding time that bites you on that short of a run so much as the mental desire to HAUL ASS. The mental aspect of this thing is what scares me the most. I know how I get.

7)Read. There is a new book out from a legendary rider named Ron Ayers. He has a new book out on endurance riding. You can find it @ Whitehorse press or Aero stitch.

Does porn count? :twisted:

8) You tell me? I've never come close to this kind of ride, but I know 2 things... I will not fail and I will not hurt myself. Nor do I want to do CPR on anyone.

Agreed. I will complete this thing with my left nut falling off if I have to, but it's not worth dying for. Speaking of CPR ... we do have people going who can deal with that sort of thing? I used to be able to but it's been several years since my cert. I do plan to bring some basic med supplies just in case...

Nick_Ninja

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 10:16 PM

Hardly, but I did dabble in the Paramedic field for many years. At one time I was certified as an American Heart and American Red Cross CPR Instructor for many (recent) years.

Got outta that business when I got shot at down in Denver around 6th and Santa Fe (missed me and my partner). Got waaaaayyyyy disillusioned after managing pediatric emergencies (berthing and German Shepard attacks to little kids can leave one with a knot in one’s stomach).

Boulder was better to perform "almost doctor" type skills. Especially on drug overdoses and "gravity attacks" off the Flatirons. I too plan on bringing my Band-Aids and Imodium :? .

Anonymous

Tue Dec 3rd, 2002, 11:17 PM

Here is some touring stuff on a fellow superhawker's site:
http://www.moto-rama.com/html/touring_info.html

And these guys were recommended to me as a place to buy stuff, including comm and audio gear:
http://www.aerostich.com/riderwearhouse.store

Nick_Ninja

Wed Dec 4th, 2002, 09:32 AM

Here is yet another site with many links to cool (and some really lame) stuff :!:

http://webmaster10.com/ldr/

http://webmaster10.com/ldr/ld-logo.gif

Nick_Ninja

Wed Dec 4th, 2002, 09:45 AM

I almost forgot. The Concours Owners Group (COG) has many good tips for long distance riding. Including insight on Iron Butt type trips and camping!

http://www.concours.org/long.distance.tips.html

http://www.concours.org/graphics/new-2b.red.gif

towneh

Wed Dec 4th, 2002, 06:49 PM

it's official.....

i just got back the paperwork for my vacation request. i am cleared for departure anytime after 1700hrs on the 23rd of may, 2003!!! the 'yello box' folks would appreciate my return on june 2nd.

later,
henry

Harry Biker

Wed Dec 4th, 2002, 09:03 PM

Ralph,
Glad to hear that you are most likely still planning to roll out 5/24,(possible 5/23 after the yellow sub gets parked :lol: ). It also appears we have the CPR area covered, but I'm not going to be doing anything with you L. nut ! :shock:

So who do you think has the best priced driving lights out there? I'd like to practice a set up on my FZ1 as I'm riding in the dark a lot lately. Would a place like Car Toys be a good place to buy? Is the switch seperate or does that come with the lights?

Still many unanswerd questions, but we're making some progress.
I think we've nailed down 2 issues: West to East and departure weekend date from Denver.

Remember after the toy run-lunch, beer, cigars, pool and discussion.
If we could come away after lunch on Sunday with @ least knowing when we were leaving Denver, when we are planning to start the clock in San Diego, and where we plan to sleep after the 1st 24 hours that would be huge! Any and all questions and concerns should be brought up.

Jeff,
Ever had a "Short Story" or a "Work of Art"? Two of the finest ever made!!
Harvest W&S on 38th? in your neck of the woods has a pretty good selection. I'll assume you've been to Edward's?

Nick_Ninja

Wed Dec 4th, 2002, 09:40 PM

Harry Biker wrote:

Jeff,
Ever had a "Short Story" or a "Work of Art"? Two of the finest ever made!!
Harvest W&S on 38th? in your neck of the woods has a pretty good selection. I'll assume you've been to Edward's?

Now I assume that you are talking stogies here :?: :?:

When you say Edward's -- do you mean Eads N&S shop :?:

P.S. Those night cutters that SAENG makes are a 'work of art' in my book. I just need to find out $cost$ and candle power.

http://www.saeng.com/

http://www.saeng.com/images/2795.jpg

Harry Biker

Thu Dec 5th, 2002, 07:17 AM

Sorry...just testing your Arturo Fuente knowledge. Yes, I was talking cigars. Edwards pipe & tobacco @ Broadway & Hampden is very good, but I've also been to Ede's and Harvest wine and spirits in Boulder.

Thanks for forwarding the Night cutter link. I think that's a pretty easy way to go. look s like approx. $300 for the entire set up.

Any idea how much of a drain the 100watt bulbs would place on a battery. I think I have a 38 amp charging system on my Glide. Harley makes a 45 amp system that I could upgrade if needed.
Ralph, do you have an easy way to assess drainage to the electrical system?? My guess is without contacting a service tech., it could be a real pain in the arse on my Harley because it already has numerous electrical gadgets.

Anonymous

Thu Dec 5th, 2002, 10:03 AM

Well, I do have a meter at home that can probably tell.

38 amps is about right for a bike (for reference - a lot of cars ar 90 amps with a lot more crap running in them)... One thing I want to do is convert everything besides the headlight to LED's, since their current drain is miniscule by comparison. That will free up a lot of juice for other things.

If you're taking the HD then I definitely have to take the hawk, can't be having an HD with the best sounding pipes in the group... :D What do you have electrical-wise on the bike right now that's non-stock?

gary n

Thu Dec 5th, 2002, 11:35 AM

Harry, check these two links out. One is a replacement lamp assembly for you passing lamps. The other is a halogen bulb for your factory passing lamps. There may be other people (including PIAA) that make a high output replacement lamp.

http://www.weekendconcepts.com/hd2.htm

http://www.harley-davidson.com/gma/gma_product.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=85903&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=266951&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=266951&bmUID=1039113081270

Harry Biker

Thu Dec 5th, 2002, 08:24 PM

My glide lights up like a Christmas tree! Non-stock would include: Lights covering the front brake discs; and a multiple light assembly around the saddlebags, trunk etc,(which I can turn on & off). The only other thing I run non-stock would be an electric vest/glove combo.

Chances are the bike can and has handled all of these for 16K miles without a hiccup.

However, there's a chance I'd be running all the above, cruise control, stereo, cb player, stock driving lights, cigar lighter, GPS, radar and additional driving lights and thought I may be pushing it!!!
The last 3 items mentioned I don't currently own.

Thanks Gary, I'll check that out as I would not be needing additional lights if I could make my existing driving lights significantly brighter.

I was farting out C. Springs BMW this evening and saw a GS with additional driving lights and looked @ how they had mounted them including the simple switch. It looked pretty straight forward.

Harry Biker

Thu Dec 5th, 2002, 08:39 PM

Oh and how could I forget.......

Although the S-Hawk certainly has a great sound, mine reminded me of a muscle car-you can't touch this!!!! :lol:

Your Hawk won't even be heard so you might want to go back to stock for the trip. :wink:

I do hope you end up on the Hawk though. You could steal some of the thunder from them R6 boys.

Tell you what I'm willing to do.......$600 + seems a little steep for a larger gas tank, you buy my celebratory dinner somwhere along the Atlantic and I'll carry your gas!. I figure I could eat, smoke, drink for oh say, $100 and you'd be saving $500 big ones. :!: :idea:
Then, because you'd have all this extra $$ you could take the crew out to a fine local establishment :wink:

Anonymous

Fri Dec 6th, 2002, 05:23 PM

Harry, harry...

I never said my superhawk was the *loudest* bike out of the group. Just that it sounded the best... :mrgreen:

Go back to stock pipes? NEVER!!!! bwahahaha No seriously that would suck, I lost a lot of weight going with the carbons (plus the other gains, like power and sound - even handling without all that extra steel hanging out there) and the stock cans are never going back on as long as I own the bike.

I'll keep your dinner thing in the back off my mind, or start a bidding war for carrying my gas. :twisted: I do want to check around though, sometimes these things come up used, and it's a general bitch about the bike anyway so I wouldn't just be replacing it for this trip.

Nick_Ninja

Sun Dec 8th, 2002, 04:35 PM

Let me say this first.....

Glad to hook up with youz guyz @ the 'Koop'. Nice to meet those I had never met prior to this gathering of fellow rider brethren :!:

Harry, Henry, Ralph, et. al.

I spoke with my bud Jay in Fontana, CA. We have an ALL CLEAR to land at the Fontana, CA site on Sat PM. BBQ, Brew, & Jacuzzi will be available (bring foam pad & sleeping bag).

Harry:

It was a VERY good idea to get the bunch together prior to take-off. THIS WILL HAPPEN.

If I don't see you in the future -- I'll see you in the pasture.

Anonymous

Sun Dec 8th, 2002, 05:49 PM

Definitely, it was great to meet you guys (well except Harry anyway)! :mrgreen:

If we know the date we will need the witnesses in San Diego and Jacksonville (I think we do now?) can someone post the final answer? I already have 2 people in SD that can serve as witnesses and my thread has only been out there for about an hour; so, people should not be an issue.

I'm also rounding up some folks on the superhawk list for some Gap riding or something like that.

On gas, I found out I can get the 5 gal tank the new canada/UK superhawks are getting for around $340 US new, so I need to call some salvage yards in far away places and see if I can find a used one. That will at least give me around a 160 mile range. (Though will gaining 20-30 miles really be worth that cost? Guys I need your input on this, since no one else will be able to go past that point whether I have a 6 gal tank or not.)

Mmmm, getting exciting! :D

towneh

Sun Dec 8th, 2002, 07:13 PM

ok jeff; **nice possum** while in TX i'm sure we'll see some armadillos in similar formats...

it was great to gather at the Wyn today... good to put some names to faces. jeff; at your earliest please send me the address for your bud Jay. just another bit of info to tweak the map.

the biggest tweak to all the routes will be fuel range limitation. here is where we stand with what we've got....
jeff's range is probably the best of all (he'll give us numbers runnin' dry)
harry's u-glide hangs about 180 (his Yam close to 200 nd MUCH faster)
ralph's s-hawk is probably around 160 (bigger tank would be good)
my_RF is conservatively holding to 200

happiness would be about 200; a lot of time is lost fueling more often. then again, headwinds can really suck up gas...

here is the sched we discussed...

depart denver on 24 may @0500 -> arrive fontana on 24 may @1630

depart fontana on 25 may @1030 -> arrive sandiego on 25 may @1215

(relax for a couple of hours with a nice meal, some kind of brisk activity to init the body for some slumber, check in at a hotel (tbd) at about 1400, <<<sleep>>>, get up about 2100, suit-up, meet with our witness, fuel-up, sand and water, AND...)

depart sandiego on 25 may @2200 -> arrive hou on 26 may @2030 (15 minute fuel stops include fuel/potty/snack by STOPWATCH)

(final fuel for documentation, connect with witness, sleep for about 6 hours, get up about 0330, suit-up, AND...)

depart hou on 27 may @0400 -> arrive jackv on 27 may @1630 (20 minute fuel stops include fuel/potty/snack by STOPWATCH)

(sand and water, final fuel for documentation, and connect with witness, and SLEEP)

things that are outstanding....
1. hotel in San D (there is Mission Valley Motel 6 (#14 in the Motel 6 Directory) is at 2424 Hotel Circle North, which is right along I-8 at the Taylor Street exit about 2 miles from the Mobil station in Ocean Beach. a 'buddy system' would help to keep things movin' on sched...
2. witness(es) in San D
3. hotel in Jacksonv (Jacksonville Beach-Days Inn Oceanfront Resort
1031 S. First St.,Jacksonville Beach, FL is just down the street from the beach access and fuel station....)
4. witness(es) in Jacksonv
5. fuel range to be used for planning
6. ideas for the return trip (date, speed, route, etc)

still thinking.... :idea:
henry

Anonymous

Sun Dec 8th, 2002, 09:00 PM

Ok...

My range, as it stands now, is not 160. Riding conservatively I can get 140 before the RLOD comes on, and even then my last tank was about 115. Of course I've been doing a lot of wheelies these days... :twisted:

I have SD taken care of for people. Still working on J-ville.

Can you work out, with the 15 minute stops, what our average speed should be between stops? That way we can time it and adjust if necessary along the way, plus I'm actually really curious. Can your software do this automatically? If not I'd be happy to add it all up. Basically I'd like to see the difference between 140 mile stops, and 200 mile stops.

A bigger tank is my first option. Fuel cells are nice, but expensive, and I think I still need to worry about refuelling on the side of the road once I run out don't I? Plus I still have to carry external fuel - whether it's leak proof or not, it's still something highly flammable that isn't contained in a metal enclosure. I could just be overly paranoid about hauling fuel around, I just have this mental picture of fire, which would be bad. (Probably seen too many crash photos, but hey if it keeps me safe...)

We should also plan some contigencies for weather. Not sure what at this point, but what happens if (more likely - when) it either monsoons so bad we can't see the road, hails, or worse? I think I posted previously that we picked the heat of storm season to be cruising through some of the most severe-weather-prone areas of the country. That can eat up a lot of time so we should plan accordingly, and possibly even have some backup routes mapped out in case we need to divert around a storm. Remember, storms down there don't act like ones up here - they are bigger, nastier, and the hail is f'in HUGE (i.e. we cannot ride in it). Fortunately I know some storm chasing folks down there who can give me storm info (like the direction we should take) if the need arises, but premapped routes would be awesome, like maybe a "just a bit north" and "just a bit south" route if we need to take a state highway for 30 miles or something.

That's all I can think of now...

Harry Biker

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 07:48 AM

Ditto, ditto to one and all. My lunch and beer for that matter sucked, but we did have some success and will likely have 1-2 more in person meetings,(perhaps a ride or 2 not counting the NEEDED SS1K!!)

Ralph, fine job locating witnesses. REMEMBER...we need a back up group or cop!! If we use civilians that are not IBA members, it takes 3 people to witness. Cop=just 1 person as does an IBA member. Assuming we end up w/ a group of 3 to witness us @ the start, we STILL NEED a back up goup!!

Jeff, Excellent suggestion and quick work getting us Fontana!!
We are also a GO for lodging in Houston.
As fas as never seeing me ride before....don't worry- I promise to show you my rear tire once we hit the Dragon,(assuming I'm on the FZ1) and since your bike has tons of bhp, you might even see it for a whopping 30 seconds before it disappears from your field of vision :lol:

Speaking of FZ1...I think I could also get us a witness in Florida out of this group, but would prefer an actual IBA member.

I woke up this morning @ 5:30am and felt VERY refreshed.

ARE WE ALL 100% CERTAIN/CLEAR/OK that we'd prefer to start this ride @ 10pm vs 5AM?????? Remember, it is lack of sleep/fatigue/hallucinations/bad weather/heat/construction zones/boredom that will all take their toll on us. VS just HEAT!!!!!!!

Yes, so we've all stayed awake for 24+ hours before. How many of us have done that on a bike for that entire time????????

I saw something in Ralph's eye's that reminded me of me when he heard our planned start time. :shock: We need to get past the STUD factor here. Henry and Jeff state this is not an issue for them. Fine.

I say we create our best luck/skill we can- and currently none of us awakens @ 9:30 pm to go to work! but we're all up by 5:30 am. That being said, our we creating this unnatural time to awaken just to avoid the heat???? IT'S NOT THE HEAT THAT'LL GET US.....IT'S THE MONSTER'S IN OUR MIRRORS!!!!!!!!!
Think about it!!!!!!!!!! If one of us fails to stay awake and wadds themselves good. All of our rides most certainly will stop!

Anonymous

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 08:37 AM

Heh, yeah having followed Harry (and kept up fairly well I think) that will be amusing in the gap for sure! :twisted:

Here is the thing about leaving at 10pm vs 5am. Well, shit it sucks either way. Leaving at 10pm, we're doing the night part first and hitting the daylight later on in the leg to Houston. If we leave at 5am we wind up doing the last half of our run to Houston in the dark, which we'll be more tired (hence prone to hallucination and seeing the boogeymen in the mirrors) for.

I think being the end of May, the heat won't be nearly as bad as July, so that isn't my main concern. I have a mesh jacket, t shirts, and I can strap a nalgene bottle to the bike to spray myself down with if need be. My main concern is safety, and yes anyone wadding up on this would be a bad thing for everyone.

I dunno, I think getting the part where we are most prone to not seeing that pickup pull out in front of us out of the way while we're as awake as possible is the way to go. But the unnatural sleep thing is part of it too, and here's the other part of that, we're going to be dramatically swinging our sleep schedules around on this trip, for the entire time. That will happen anyway because of the limited sleep available to drive to Florida.

Also - witnesses. If we leave at 5am I guarantee you I can't drag some biker out of bed to come sign a piece of paper. Also if we arrive in Florida in the middle of the night, same thing. Whereas leaving at 10pm from SD and getting in J-town sometime in the evening will be fine...

I dunno, I think we may just have to bite the bullet and deal with it that one hardcore night. Maybe some endurance training in the meantime? I.e. stay up for 24 hours, take trips on the bike, try not to drink coffee, etc to condition our bodies to "hell day". The rest of the trip will be a lot easier that way too.

Yeah I probably had that :shock: look in my eyes, still do occasionally. However let's not kid ourselves, this is a BIG ride! That reaction is warranted I think. :D Also we don't need to be macho or whatever, but will probably need to keep each other charged up about it as we go... Especially towards the end of that 24 hour leg, the CB radios will become very nice at that point.

ON GPS's: Who here has one? I sold mine several months ago on eBay (the joys of being unemployed) and have wanted to get another one, but they are pricey. We don't all need GPS's either (we should all have paper maps of everything, maybe I print up a little "black book" of trip info for everyone?) but someone should have one.

Harry Biker

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 09:03 AM

Anonymous

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 09:10 AM

Good points.

However, once we become worthy-meaning once we are OFFICIAL IBA members after having completed and sent in the goods for the SS1K, then the world and current IBA members will surely meet us @ anytime if we ask. That's what's so cool about them.

So, Ralph just to clarify, are you wanting 10pm vs 5am?

Good point on the SS1K. Lots of time still... I have not found anyone in Jacksonville yet FYI, having an IBA member there would be cool (especially one who knows a place with a hot tub).

I guess if you look at it from a sleep-normality standpoint, 5am is easier. Logistically and safety wise I wonder if 10pm is better tho?

Harry Biker

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 09:39 AM

I suggest this........
When Henry arranges for us to do the SS1K in the Spring,(you can take that on can't you Henry)? Let's do it @ 10pm!! Obviously we will only be doing 2/3'rds of the bad boy, but we'll know how we feel pretty much after 1K.

So....when are we doing the SS1K HT??

Nick_Ninja

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 11:02 AM

Harry Biker wrote:

My lunch and beer for that matter sucked........

You should have sent it back ................

Anonymous

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 11:05 AM

Harry Biker wrote:

My lunch and beer for that matter sucked........

You should have sent it back ................

Personally, I feel my Breakfast Burrito was taaasty! The iced tea was, well, iced tea. Didn't have beer (I don't drink and ride, no exceptions).

Nick_Ninja

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 11:23 AM

rforsythe wrote:

I don't drink and ride, no exceptions

I'll drink to that :twisted:

towneh

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 11:38 AM

greetings all,
the yello sub just docked for a few hours....

>>>i will do the comparison of the 1st leg of the 50cc (i.e. 140 range vs 200 range) and email the results (turn4turn with miles and 15min fuel/potty/snack frames...) to whom ever wishes by cob (2100) on thurs. :D

>>>i will map out a route for the spring 1kss with southern destinations of our choice (i.e. big triangle or box...) so as to exploit an earlier date to do it and utilize locals for our witness program... give me some ideas !?!? 8)

>>>i like the hours/times that i've posted but then again, i'm
biased... :wink:

fontana address?

got to put in a baseboard heater now...

keep on thinkin'
henry :o

Nick_Ninja

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 12:00 PM

Fontana, CA Address:

<deleted, so there!>

towneh wrote:

>>>i will map out a route for the spring 1kss with southern destinations of our choice (i.e. big triangle or box...) so as to exploit an earlier date to do it and utilize locals for our witness program... give me some ideas !?!?

I like the idea of a triangle route. I'd rather stay in the boarders of the Columbine State. However, if need be here is an idea:

Wichita, KS for lunch = 520mi one way from Denver

WEATHER PERMITTING -- Do it around the shortest day of the year (12/21). Leave EARLY (4:00 AM) and get a taste of NIGHT riding.

And from where I live I can tack on another 70 miles.

towneh

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 12:25 PM

thanx for the idea jeff.... unfortunately, i've already got a commitment on the 21st and my spouse would be VERY unhappy if i blew it off!!! i'll map your route idea with all the features sometime Friday (if all goes well).

back to the yello sub,
henry

btw, thanx for the Fonatna address.

Anonymous

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 12:32 PM

Ok, on the SS1k ... I assume we need witnesses for that as well, ya? I can produce as many as we need in Albuquerque at any time. The tricky part with the triangle is getting the checkpoints right with people who will sign your form. That's 511mi from Ft Collins (can get people up there too), or we could start further south and do a triangle if the midpoint has people?

On the timing of the ss1k - I can't do it on the 21st. I've seen night riding. Personally, I'd prefer to do this after it warms up a little, riding for 1000 miles when it's between 10-20 degrees at night is not my idea of fun. At least in sunlight I can pretend I'm getting warmer, but having to ride all night with a visor cracked so it doesn't fog up isn't cool to me. Besides I kinda thought the ss1K was a bit later in the plans anyway, like we were going to try some distance rides without quite so much pressure first?

Nick_Ninja

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 04:21 PM

rforsythe wrote:

I kinda thought the ss1K was a bit later in the plans anyway

I need to watch my valve setting interval. Currently I am at about 6K away from having to set the valves, plugs, carbs, etc. I need to plan on performing this service close to the Memorial Day weekend. My tread is also of concern. The tires will have to be changed out at that time too. This should get the bike through the whole 50cc Quest.

Contrary to the moniker supplied by this website, weekend riding is NOT what I, nor my bike, are all about. I figure that I'll have an additional 6K on the bike by mid May or sooner if I do a couple of SS1K's.

Weather permitting, I am planing on riding to Witchita, KS on 12/21/02 just for kicks. At 7 hours (420 minutes) for 520 miles the average speed calulates to be 74.29 mph. I plan on 8 hours one way. It will be interesting to see what my average speed will be per gas receipts sooooo...............onward through the fog.

Harry Biker

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 05:09 PM

Jeff,
From the sounds of it..you are currently the King or rather the Iron Buttocks of the CSC,(based on your mileage on your '02 bike) I believe I put on 15K, but that was on 4 of them and that is not a great year. I am planning a mileage contest for '03 so be ready 8)

But,(and excuse me if I misread your post) There ain't no way you're gonna have > 74 mph average speed on your little run 12/21. However, I'd be willing to be 1/3 starting witnesses for you should you need it.

As far as the group's Spring time Saddle Sore,(I'm going surgical in 1.5 days & will be off the bike for awhile) we only need a starting and ending witness which can be in the same location,(if we loop or triangle etc) I believe a bike shop also can work as a witness and they should be willing to hit our end mileage.

Bike prep will be an issue for all. Endurance riding is not cheap. If you're lucky you can stretch out certain items to time things like tires/chains etc. Henry's screwed for tires as he will need between 5-6 between today and 21 weeks from now...Ya BABY!!!!!
Everyone will likely need something!. For chain rear drive riders,(potentially 1/2 the group or more) you may need a chain too. At the very least carry a chain tool and a new link,(can today's high powered chains be repaired on the road)?

My vote for the Saddle sore would be Southbound,(since we can do it earlier that Duluth) We should plan on having and trying out all the goodies you plan to do the 50CC with.

Nick_Ninja

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 05:37 PM

Harry Biker wrote:

There ain't no way you're gonna have > 74 mph average speed...

The 74.24 mph was average for 7 hours. I said 8 hours which is the following:

520 mi in 480 min for and avg. speed of 65.0.

Most of CO and KS is 75 out there with VERY few towns in between.

Here's a cool calulator to figure this crapola out.

http://pages.prodigy.net/jack.loganbill/mph.htm

gary n

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 06:07 PM

Hey guys,

I had a busy week at work last week and was resting this weekend so I didn't make the toy run/meeting. It sounds like you're making progress.

I am 90% sure that I'm going to pass on the 50cc. That ride is going to be too much like work for me. I have had one vacation day in the last two and a half years so if I can get a week off I would like it to be somewhat relaxing. I will follow your plans and may try to make the Saddle Sore with you all.

If anyone is going to do a more relaxed trip this year I would be up for it - if I can get the time off from work. Maybe out to the coast and follow it up to Seattle, then across to Glacier Nat'l Park and back home through Yellowstone and the Tetons - 3700 miles in 9 days (410/day).

*B*

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 06:26 PM

Hey Gary,

I like that idea something that a little shorter would probably be with in means.

Harry Biker

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 08:57 PM

Hey Gary,
I can dig it! Although I do have the IBA bug in me and need to test my metal so to speak, it is pressure to be on the clock etc. and you can't say enough about "stopping and smelling the roses"

I was kind of hoping others would also start up another or several touring rides. There's so many cool places to visit and roads that need to be visited!!

Keep us posted. Besides the 50CC, I'm also doing the Harley 100th annv. deal Labor Day, but I'd be up for a 3 day ride for anyone that's feeling like putting a little saddle time in. Yellow Stone be nice :idea: :?:
Harry.

BTW. After talking w/ several riders @ the Toy Run, there may some interest in people heading out to Cali with us and then we go our seperate ways

Nick_Ninja

Mon Dec 9th, 2002, 09:17 PM

Harry Biker wrote:

I'm going surgical in 1.5 days & will be off the bike for awhile

Good luck :!: (Exclamation might not be appropriate here).

Harry Biker also wrote:

I'd be willing to be 1/3 starting witnesses for you should you need it.

:arrow: Did you know Randy Bishop (the guy you sold your seat to and the guy I rode four COG sponsored Ride The Divide rally with) is a full fledged member of the IBA :?: There is our contact to get into this crazy maniacal mayhem :twisted:

Harry Biker

Tue Dec 10th, 2002, 06:55 AM

Good Call!!

On a side note....I've checked out "Two Wheels Only" which is in Georgia and is an MC only camping spot very close to the Dragon. The entire area of N. Carolina, Tenn., Georgia,(by the borders) looks awesome!! Add the Grt Smoky Mtns NP, Blue Ridge Pkwy area and we should be in for some fun!!

To help map this return route,(ideally taking scenic roads) are we all willing to camp? I am, but rather than take a tent I will likely shoot for cabins. Example...T.W.O. has cabins for $40,(which is comparable to KOA's) they are usually w/ AC & Heat,( in the South @ least) That's a whopping $10/person. A typical cabin will have 1 bunk bed and 1 double bed. Last one through the Dragon can bed w/ Henry's hairy butt :lol: ,(unless of course he wipes some Ninja butt or plucks a Super Chicken)

Yes, I guess he could also take me out, but I'm having surgery and it's not nice to pick on the crippled handicapped folks.right? :wink:

We could use some research too after heading West from that region,(it looks a tad boring, but what do I know)? Mamouth Cave? Hot Springs in the Ark? Is there anything worthwhile to see Westward @ the same latitude As Denver??

Anonymous

Tue Dec 10th, 2002, 08:36 AM

Hey, I'm finally going to the doc this afternoon for my ankle which I screwed up back in July! It still hurts a lot, but lack of insurance or a job meant I couldn't deal with it, so I learned to ignore it. If I had to guess it has a small hairline fracture, but I will find out at 4:45 today, and hopefully not wind up a hobbling gimp for 6 weeks.

Ok, so I definitely want to do the gap coming back. I have heard nothing but cool stuff about that road (and a lot of *be careful* types of things too), and it's been something on my list for a while now. Man I am so excited! As much as I like canyon carving, a big part of me has wanted to just ride the country and SEE stuff. It's hard to get a perspective on the world at 130mph.

So what's the plan back from the Gap? Head north then west, go west then north, or ? I'd like to stop in Austin at some point to visit some friends but it may be way out of the way for everyone else, so you guys let me know. That would add some distance perhaps, I dunno. It's all lowland farm country anyway. :mrgreen: (Could probably get us some lodging there too for what it's worth)

I dunno what to say about going west from Denver. There isn't shit to do on that ride. The canyons in Utah are very nice to see, but that's the best part of that ride I think. I don't dig on Vegas (seen it, wasn't impressed) so I think most of our fun there will be in Fontana, and again in San Diego.

towneh

Tue Dec 10th, 2002, 11:53 AM

lets see.... cabins are for wuussses (spelling denotes high performance versions). :shock:

a bad ankle is hard one to deal with. so, was it painful to shift or was it painful to engage the rear brake??? bad things can happen if your let things go too long (broken collar bone in Jan 95; painfully repaired in October 97...). :scatter:

hopefully, everybody gets better.....

jeff, very slick how you deleted the address just before i got to work on it today!!!! (yesterday was the baseboard heater!!!). drop me an email with it when you can (use 'reply' with what i sent last night).

getting thru the gap; maybe i'll tote my hammock or folding low-profile cot
amazinly sick... :?
henry

Anonymous

Tue Dec 10th, 2002, 12:06 PM

Left ankle Henry. I can shift ok (still have up and down motion alright) but side to side hurts, as does any force aside from normal light walking. Can do stairs if I'm careful, but no jumping or anything.

I deleted the address at his request, oh well I guess he can reply back to ya through the PM function on here to keep it private.

Oh - I now have people in jacksonville taken care of as well.

gary n

Tue Dec 10th, 2002, 01:33 PM

Queen Wilhelmina State Park is on the border of Arkansas and Oklahoma. It is west of Mena, Arkansas. There is a stretch of 60 plus miles that is real twisty with lots of elevation changes. I was really surprised to find an area like that in Arkansas. We did it on a bunch of cruisers several years ago.

http://www.yournet.com/queen.html

Another good spot to stop on the way back would be Hot Springs, Arkansas. It would be a good place to spend the night - you could soak in the hot springs to relax those riding muscles. I have driven through there and it reminds me of Estes Park (kind of a tourist area). I haven't sampled the hot springs but people I worked with would go over there for the weekend.

Arkansas and Eastern Oklahoma are a lot better than Missouri and Kansas.

Anonymous

Wed Dec 11th, 2002, 05:43 AM

Ralph,

I have an idea for your gas tank woes, but I don't know how feasable it is... you would have to make it (or have it made), and theoretically, it could be used on almost any bike to increase distance between gas stops. Actually, since I'd love to join you guys on this venture, I was thinking about it for the R1.

I'm thinking of a second tank, which sits on top of the original and funnels gas directly into it. It could be strapped in place and have a rubber seal where the funnel feeds into the original tank. You could probably have it hold 2 gallons without adding too much height to the overall tank (probably about 3 inches). The fuel filler cap should probably be over the original since it funnels slower than the nozzle disperses, just put the nozzle down into the original tank... Since it will probably be made of plastic, magnetic tank bags won't work anymore. The original idea behind this is a 2 gallon jerry can, inverted & strapped in place on the tank, with it's spout going directly into the tank! :lol:

I don't know if it's really feasible (at least not without the means to manufacture it), but I really think it could work... If you can do it, make one for me too, will ya? :D I think it would look way cool in carbon fiber!

Anonymous

Wed Dec 11th, 2002, 09:56 AM

I don't know if it's really feasible (at least not without the means to manufacture it), but I really think it could work... If you can do it, make one for me too, will ya? :D I think it would look way cool in carbon fiber!

You don't get one unless you ride the trip... :mrgreen:

Yeah that's a good idea, I was thinking along those lines too but I can't figure out how to make *damn* sure the gas doesn't leak. I was almost even thinking of a second tank built into the bike somehow that just fed into the fuel lines, but same issue.

I have it!! I will just run a line from harry's bike to mine and siphon fuel out as I go... lol

Nick_Ninja

Wed Dec 11th, 2002, 11:41 AM

Here's THE site for Deals Gap:

http://www.tailofthedragon.com/pics/logoflagnew.jpg

http://www.tailofthedragon.com/

And for those who might take that next corner a little too HOT!

http://www.tailofthedragon.com/pics2002/trucks/0501_accident1_sm.jpg

Nick_Ninja

Wed Dec 11th, 2002, 03:15 PM

THE LAW ON THE TAIL OF THE DRAGON
(Blount County TN Sheriff's web page)

We usually see the Blount County Sheriff's cars on 129 along the Little Tennessee River straight-aways and sitting at the Tabcat Creek Bridge. Tennessee Sheriff and Highway Patrol units normally stay off of the Tail of the Dragon unless investigating an accident. At times enforcement is stepped up when alot of complaints are made. During heavy enforcement, you can expect plain wrappers on the Dragon, speed clocking, video taping, road blocks for license/inspection, and numerous marked cars along US129. Heavy enforcement is sporadic, so we suggest you abide by the traffic laws at all times. :cry:

The Graham County helicopter does not fly over the Tennessee sections of the Dragon, but does cover 129, 143, and 28 on the North Carolina side. The Graham County SO and NC Highway Patrol often has radar operating on 129, 143, and 28, especially on the week-ends.

:arrow: TN is reportedly cracking down on riders wearing non-DOT approved helmets with fines up to $175. You can bet there will be tickets issued on the Dragon for this violation.

Thanks to Steve Hornung for this update. TNHP has been shooting radar on HWY 72. Extra NCHP have been assigned to WNC and will be on the Cherohala (and other roads) on the weekends for the remainder of the riding season.

Anonymous

Wed Dec 11th, 2002, 03:37 PM

Also as a reminder ... I'm sure we'll all be bringing them, but we need to be sure we know about helmet laws for all states we'll be traversing. One guy I know (cannot remember who) actually got a ticket in Vegas for taking his helmet off - he was stopped, but still sitting on his bike on a road. It would be easy to get a lot of fines for stuff like that if we're not careful. There are also eye-protection laws, i.e. if your visor is up and you don't have glasses on, that's a violation (actually you can get busted for that here).

I have a site bookmarked somewhere with the helmet laws for all states, I'll dig it up. Might even be on CSC somewhere, I have not looked.

Nick_Ninja

Wed Dec 11th, 2002, 03:46 PM

Here is THE latest concerning Helmet Laws:

http://usff.com/hldl/frames/50state.html

http://usff.com/hldl/hlstatutes/usmap.gif

The GREEN states (and yes COLORADO is one of them!) are HELMET FREE!

Nick_Ninja

Thu Dec 12th, 2002, 04:54 PM

Here is a site that has average weather information

http://www.weatherbase.com/gr/weatherbase.gif

http://www.weatherbase.com

Nick_Ninja

Sat Dec 14th, 2002, 04:22 PM

Today I went out and rode CO 93 S. to US 285 W. then S. on the Deckers Road to Woodland Park. E on US 24 to I-25 N. Exit @ Palmer Lake N. on CO 115 to US 85 N. to C-470 and back to CO 93 N.

I fuled up in Boulder and then refuled at the same pump exactly 4 hours later.

216 miles total
Went on reserve @ 207 miles
Had 1.1 gal left in tank @ fill-up
Averaged 42.39 mpg.
Sooo.... the 250 range is doable but without any buffer :roll:

:arrow: BTW avg mph = 50.82 mph
(not IBA by any means but a brisk pace to say the least for that route.)

Dysco

Sun Dec 15th, 2002, 03:57 AM

Hey guys- I'm planning on a 50CC sometime next spring on my BMW 650GS. I'm going alone since I've done enough traveling to know that I want to go my own pace. You might find this info useful:

-East to West gives you more daylight to work with. Granted the JAX to SD route is mostly straight and boring, it's still a good plan to have max visibility for the greatest amount of time, IMHO.

-Driving lights are priceless. I kind of skimmed through this forum so I'm not sure if you talked about it much, but I know from experience that no single (dunno about the double headlight deal) headlight is enough to pull a fast cruising speed in the middle of nowhere safely. I'll be running dual PIAA driving lights on all of my long rides next year- but I've done without.

- http://www.bsu.edu/web/00amleduc/mtf/50cc/50cctrip.htm This site is money. It lists 24 hour gas stations on then route and includes trip plans for different tank ranges. All but one of their plans are East to West specific but you could reverse them or check out the gas station list...

-Heated stuff (grips, vest...) or extra warm gear is key. I learned this after I ended up doing the hypothermia thing one night in a cheap Wyoming hotel after crossing the Divide at night on my 919 in June. I pack an extra sweatchirt or something (snow bib/pants not a bad idea) under the raincover on my tailbag now. The Iron Butt website has a cool thing about what to wear in the stories section.

So there's my $.02. Sorry if I rehashed old material but it's late and there's 6 pages of stuff here! :)

I'll be back,

Mike

(I did read a lot of it- honest.)

Dysco

Sun Dec 15th, 2002, 11:10 PM

Anonymous

Sun Dec 15th, 2002, 11:27 PM

Yep- I've read it now... Totally ignore me- you've got it down.

Except for that gas station website I'm a big fat repeat.

Anyone in NY/PA lately? I found a Doppler weather station in one of their super rest area things on some tollway. If only every rest stop had one of those... Seen them anywhere else?

Mike

Yep, seen them in a few other places... Though as a former meteorology major, I'll be looking up weather using my own sources... :mrgreen: And no, Weather Channel does not count. They suck!

Dysco, thanks for the info, actually I think some of that was new but it's all good to add to the brain. One thing we don't want to be for this trip is unprepared!

So Sway ... you reconsider not being able to take the time off yet? c'mon, you know you want to ride 6000 miles on a gsxr-750... :lol:

Harry Biker

Wed Dec 18th, 2002, 09:29 AM

Hey guys,
I'm back from the dead ! After having 2 limbs cut on. Can't currently do much @ all w/ my R.arm,(like reach a handlebar :lol: ) but I'll be working on that soon enough.

Mike,
should you change your mind about riding solo, just say the word. When are you planning on doing your 50cc? I'll assume you are already an official IBA member. Have you done anything else,(official ) besides a SS1K? Lastly, how do you like your 650? What kind of range can you get on that scoot?

Anyone make any progress/purchase yet specifically for communications?

Ralph,
After giving your range some thought, I suggest you just get youself an auxillary fuel cell. This is a cheaper way to go than buying the larger tank. You can easily transfer the cell to future bikes assuming you were to get into endurance rallies such as the Utah 1088 ;) and being that your Hawk is carburated vs FI, it's easier to plumb it, and it would also have a nice re-sale appeal to it.

Harry

towneh

Wed Dec 18th, 2002, 07:55 PM

greetings committed ones! :D

I’ve noted jeffs posted range; another joins the 200 mile club. I’d agree with harrys suggestion to ralph for an in-line fuel cell. bang-per-buck and flexibility are winning combinations…

I --think-- santa got me the midland 75-822 handheld cb AND I know that santa made several attempts to contact 'soundradio' to order the full-helmet audio components. their website is having problems but they’re still dealing with the toll-free number…

I recently purchased the bottom of the line MP3 player made by Rio (Volt sp50) . it will play a custom burned cd holding the equiv of 8-10 albums. pretty cool.

i intend to work up a binder of doc forms/route descriptions for each of us for the 2 legs of the 50cc. the binder will also include the route description for the Den-Font-SanD jaunt.

i have a suspicion that everybody will go their own way after the celebration in Jacksonville.... that's not necessarily a bad thing and i'll be glad to draft up a return route description for anyone....

additionally, i will prepare a binder of doc forms/route descriptions for each of us for the ss1k. i've prepared a route that will be an 'out-and-back' to Socorro,NM hoping to optimize on the southern route and warmer conditions. i don't want ice in Raton..... i'm open to more ideas. mid march, april????? good time to dry-run our gear that we’d use for the 50cc…

later,
henry

Nick_Ninja

Wed Dec 18th, 2002, 10:37 PM

towneh wrote:

intend to work up a binder of doc forms/route descriptions for each of us for the 2 legs of the 50cc. the binder will also include the route description for the Den-Font-SanD jaunt.

The Font-SanD might not need a binder cuz it might be on the "hang-over" list when we all get out of Dodge. Point-and-click. That's it. Ahhhh yes, sleep in SD is a GOOD THING.

and again......

i have a suspicion that everybody will go their own way after the celebration in Jacksonville.... that's not necessarily a bad thing and i'll be glad to draft up a return route description for anyone....

If I'm in the area of " THE TAIL" I plan on crank'n the turns. Welcome to join if you want. I have 1 week additional time to get back home ...... or will cruise with those who need to return FAST! Time spent at home and time spent on the bike are one in the same to me...... WORK IS A FOUR (4) LETTER WORD.

Yes..................there is more :crazy:

additionally, i will prepare a binder of doc forms/route descriptions for each of us for the ss1k. i've prepared a route that will be an 'out-and-back' to Socorro,NM hoping to optimize on the southern route and warmer conditions. i don't want ice in Raton..... i'm open to more ideas. mid march, april????? good time to dry-run our gear that we’d use for the 50cc…

I dig Socorro, NM --- If it don't snow on the 21st --------------- yeah RIGHT :lol: and I don't go the distance to Witchita, KS ............. (highly doubtful now) this is cool 8)

towneh: Howz bout thoz roads that go east / north east and blow off that dip in I-25 east of Santa Fe, NM :sleeping: (Zzzzzzzzzz)

There's a hook up that is just south of Las Vegas, NM back onto I-25

Dysco

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 12:44 AM

Harry- Planning on doing the 50cc in April. I have a friend getting hitched in Atlanta around that time. I was going to do the Deals Gap thing and maybe hit Beale St on the way in and head down to Key West on the way out. I'm planning on doing the 50 then, but if there's a time problem, I'll do it in early May.

To be honest I'm not official. I have a documented SS1K with witness forms in an envelope in my tank bag from my trip to Seattle in June. I never turned it in because I was going for 1500/24. I made it 1250 miles and wimped out because I was pretty unprepared for the ride in general (honda 919, no windshield). On the way back I got caught up at a friends BBQ in Portland and blew all my timelines so I didn't even try. I was always planning on completing the BBG but I never had the time.

The 650 has a 4 gallon tank and in the last 1000 miles (since I got it on 11-27) I've been averaging 55 MPG city and I'm no stranger to the redline. I figure I can make at least 65 MPG highway with it at 75-80 mph. Doesn't really have the cruising speed of the 919- it has pulling power all the way to 100 but I feel bad taking it over 90. I really miss the scary accelleration, but the inline 1 has it's advantages. I just ordered a set of tires that I'm going to stud for winter riding. Going to try to make it without a car this winter.

Anonymous

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 09:44 AM

I had another thought on my mileage issue... Something Gary said got me thinking... What about gearing?

If I gear my bike down for accelleration and "wheelie power", my mileage goes to shit of course because of increased rev's, yadda yadda. What if I go the other direction? I.e. gear it up a lot, to where I lose some of the "torque factor" of the bike but lower the revs substantially, thereby saving gas? Since I'm already piped/jetted I'll still have usable power I think, I won't be wheelieing at all (but I won't be doing that on this trip anyway) however I should save gas in the process. What do you guys think?

Dysco, I'd like to see that studded-tire bike after you get it sorted out! :shock: Perhaps you need the line at the bottom of my signature more than I do! :lol:

Dysco

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 10:25 AM

Dude. You have no idea. I got off work this morning around 730 and I had to scrape the ice off my seat. The frost on the rest of the bike is still there. I kept sliding on ice from the crown of the lane to the bottom of the tire grooves at speed. Can't wait for the studs.... and my snowmobile bibs that are in transit as I type.

In other news, I had to do traffic court this morning and held up the line taking off all of my gear at the metal detector. It was pretty hilarious- I saw a lot of these today: :shock:

gary n

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 11:09 AM

Ralph,

You will save fuel but I don't think it will be a substantial amount. But with that small tank every little bit helps! You are basically creating an overdrive with your sixth gear.

I don't remember the rpm/mph relationship on my Superhawk. If you normally are at 6000rpm for 80mph and you can re-gear and drop it to 5500rpm. You have saved 500rpm. Since a 4-stroke fires every other revolution, you have gone from firing 3000 times per minute to 2750 times per minute - a savings of 8%. I don't know if that will translate directly into 8% less fuel consumed though since fuel consumtion varies at different rpm.

It will also affect the rest of your gears. So, depending on how high you gear it, first gear could be like starting out in second gear now.

Also Ralph, I'm not leaving town so I'm going to meet you all on Saturday for the bike show. I will bring those risers with me and if you want to come by and look at the rest of that stuff you can do that this weekend too.

Anonymous

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 11:30 AM

Well, if we assume a linear increase in fuel use based on RPM, then yeah I think it would be 8% less. Of course it takes a LOT less fuel to maintain a speed, than to accelerate. Some recent fuel efficient designs (hybrids mainly, but other places too - not on bikes tho) actually drop the fuel output to 20% of maximum during steady cruise speeds, because the inertia of the vehicle handles the rest. The savings won't be quite so high on a bike because they are aerodynamically horrid, but still substantial.

Since 99% of my riding will be at steady speed on the highway, combined with taller gearing I think it might be enough to get me by. I can routinely see 140 miles before the RLOD (Red Light Of Death) under normal city riding; 120 miles if I play a bit, 110 if I act like a hooligan. I think with gearing, and cruising in 6th (yeah, like an overdrive essentially) at 80mph, that thing will be at fairly low RPM. 6th/90mph is usually about 5k RPM if I recall, so my guess is I could approach or be below 4 grand easily for the majority of this ride. Hmmmmm......... (Not to mention the decreased vibes will be easier on me personally.) I'm going to have to look into this. So, if going down a tooth in the front ups the RPMs by 500, going up a tooth should be near the same amount. That would be friendlier on the chain as well. I could go up 2 teeth if I really wanted to be anal about it, though I'd have to start out like an inline in 1st gear to get going. :D

Gary, I won't be on the bike saturday (temps, + beer) but if you'd be ok with it, could I "try before I buy" so to speak? I'm 99% sure I want the rest of that stuff too, of course I want to look at it first but I could pay you for the risers at that time if they work out. I'd just like to take some time to bolt them on, and go for a ride to see the difference. Wish I had some helibars to compare them to... oh well.

gary n

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 11:48 AM

Ralph, just put them on and try them out and if they work for you, you can pay me later. I'm not worried about the money right now. If you could look at the other stuff you are interested in and let me know what you don't want that would be a great help to me. I have somebody who is interested in the risers and double-bubble shield and some of the other stuff but I'm waiting to call him until after you check it out. If I'm in my truck I will bring it all with me and save you a trip up north.

You're right about consumption being different for accelleration or maintaining speed so the savings could be better if you can find the most efficient cruising rpm. Also, 1 in the front is more like 2 or 3 in the rear. Somewhere I saw a chart/program that would figure out the different ratios. I will try to find it for you.

Harry Biker

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 11:49 AM

Ralph,
I think your idea might just work! Obviously you can carry extra fuel and use it as needed and I think if you did have to use it, you'd still be OK w/ the IBA as long as you give explanation,(just having them read you did this on a Super Hawk should bring about some understanding)

Don't know what you'll be using for bags, but I cam across a nice bag @ www.revpack.com and their excursion model,(which is a bit more) has pockets for carrying extra fuel etc.

Also, as long as you have a throttle lock,(you are planning on getting one right)? and a comfy tank bag you should be ok without the heli's or similar. Genmar risers if you do go that route,(which may be what Gary has) are significantly cheaper that heli.

gary n

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 12:17 PM

I found this on the web by doing a search for "motorcycle gearing." There was an Excel file and another file to download too.

http://www.mtv411.com/auto/Motorcycle-Gearing-Calculator-Sprocket-ratio.htm

This will change your speedometer too, which will effect your worksheets and documentation for the Iron Butt. I'm sure they have a provision for this since other people must adapt their gearing too.

Harry, they are the GenMar risers. They are cheaper and easier to install than the Helibars. Since they are just a spacer, all you do is slide your clip-ons with all the controls intact off the top of the fork tube and slide the spacer on. 10-15 minutes to install them or remove them. No need to remove and reinstall all of your controls and grips. You just have about 3/8" less height gain than with the Helibars.

Anonymous

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 02:03 PM

Wow, lots of good info!

First off - Gary, yeah if you cage it down please bring that stuff, I'll look at it all and let ya know right away (except the genmars, need to try those). I'll grab that excel sheet from home. And yes it will screw up my speedo, but I may put a yellowbox on there to correct for that. There was a recent thread on the superhawk list about the speedo being high but the Odometer correct on some bikes? Seems odd so I need to check into that.

Harry, wow that pack is exactly what I've been trying to find! I think Santa is handling the tankbag for me actually... :D But that excursion thing is the shiznit! Especially with a couple of the other mods they have, you could carry half of what you own around with you in that thing. I doubt I'd need the add'l saddle bags with something that big, but one of my plans for early January is to pile up literally every piece of anything I plan on carrying on the floor and see how much room it takes up. I'll fill the tankbag accordingly and see what's left. That way I can judge my space needs.

I know we're hotel'ing it for the most part (or using houses along the way), but do you think we should be bringing sleeping bags or anything due to a lack of beds? Those tube-style side packs they have look like they'd be ideal for that, and aren't that much more $$. Plus I need to make room for a real set of tools, or at least enough to limp a bike to a suitable shop if necessary.

Nick_Ninja

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 02:16 PM

Anonymous

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 02:36 PM

rforsythe wrote:

but do you think we should be bringing sleeping bags or anything due to a lack of beds?

You will need a sleeping bag / Thermarest pad in Fontana, CA Not enough beds for all attending so far....... :o :o :o

Guess that answers that! :up:

Oh well, I guess if you're gonna buy bike luggage, may as well get the good stuff huh? I'll get one of those excursion packs as part of another paycheck though... :roll:

Nick_Ninja

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 06:26 PM

If your having second doubts about your fuel capacity, here is a guy out of 'Keybeck' that seems to have an answer :D

http://nbriders.tripod.com/fuel%20cell.htm

Anonymous

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 07:25 PM

I found this on the web by doing a search for "motorcycle gearing." There was an Excel file and another file to download too.

http://www.mtv411.com/auto/Motorcycle-Gearing-Calculator-Sprocket-ratio.htm
Hey - the first form on that page was written by Yours Truly! The guy stole it and didn't change a thing! Here's the original:
http://www.cosportbikeclub.org/misc/SpeedCalc.html

Cool :D

towneh

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 07:38 PM

so long as we're shoppin' for nice luggage...

http://www.chaseharper.com/BBags/BBags.htm
http://www.tourmaster.com/

look at those 'speed packs' they've even got a pic of a super hawk sporting one of their speed packs!!

even though i dropped hints to my 'local Santa representative' about luggage i'm afraid that it will be left to me for purchasing....

tank bag choice 1: tour master cortech tribag abt $150
saddle/tail bag " : chase harper/bbaggs/speed bag abt $350

money, money, money.... :P :lol:
henry

towneh

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 07:54 PM

oh yeah..... does anyone know a good supplier of PIAA H4 bulbs locally???

the cheap hi-perf bulbs usually run too hot. as usual, i'm looking for selection and reasonable cost.

thanx,
henry 8)

gary n

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 08:16 PM

Henry, Arizona Motorsports has that tank bag for $135.
http://store.yahoo.com/azmotorsports/cortribagsys.html

I have the Tourmaster Cortech tailbag/saddlebags combo. I have only used the tailbag so far but I was real happy with how it worked.

Ventura Pack Systems makes some nice luggage too.
http://www.ventura-bike.com/

Ralph, I know of one person who broke the plastic tail section twice on their Superhawk when they loaded it up with a bunch of luggage. It breaks where it attaches to the subframe by the rear peg mounts because there are only two little screws holding it on. They epoxied some metal to the inside of the plastic tail section to reinforce it. ZenRail makes a bungee hook/luggage support system but it was about $200 last time I looked.

Even though I don't think I will make the 50CC with you all, I am following this thread because I plan on doing the SaddleSore to New Mexico when you go.

Anonymous

Thu Dec 19th, 2002, 10:35 PM

Hmmm... Good to know Gary. What I'm thinking with that excursion bag though is that it has compartments that hang down on the side (check out Harry's link, they're in the touring category I think), so they wouldn't really put so much pressure down on the side or inwards so much as keeping the weight on the seat and support where it matters. I'm also planning on making a bracket of some kind (possibly from Carbon, depending on if I can hook up with nick's associate and learn how) to add support and keep things off the pipes. I will make sure I don't ding up the plastics though, especially since I just had them repainted. :D

So ... the way back ... I guess yeah it's up in the air, though there are what 4-5 of us going? How diversified can we get? I don't want to saddlesore it back to Denver, but I mean there are limited things to do coming back - if you cut through the dragon, you wind up on 70 I think (ick!), or you can go north and catch 80 back in right? Or go west from Florida and pick up I25, head back through NM, or whatever. There are a million ways to go - could even take side roads, though in BFE I dunno ... I've seen Deliverance. :guns:

I've also expressed interest in an stop in Austin, but I dunno if there will be time, plus it would be a big double-back to hit it I think. OTOH I could haul ass back and probably still have enough time to catch the AMA's at PPIR the 30th-1st of June (31st/1st are the main days), though I also need to evaluate my desire to spend 2 days in Colorado Springs. Guess it depends on if Bigtime will give my sore body dibs on a bed instead of the floor like last June. (For those that don't know, he does this every year - has a big ol' party in the springs, does steaks and shrimps, puts us all up for the weekend at his pad - it's definitely worth me trying to make it back for if possible.)

So, much to think about...

Harry Biker

Fri Dec 20th, 2002, 02:29 PM

Ok Gary,
We're gonna hold you to the SS1K w/ us!! Tentatively boys( :cry: since the Italian chick doesn't seem to want to come out & play) pencil in 4/11/03 for a 10pm departure,(you know that miserable time most of you picked :lol: ) and I'll assume we'll be back in time for dinner @ say Celtic Crossing for the celebratory albeit neophyte dinner :P Maybe we can also gain a couple more riders for this distance and I'll put out a post when we can get some idea of what the weather will bring.

BTW speaking of weather, plan on a chilly night as we enter the Cali mtns, east of San Diego. If it's 50 degrees out, we could be below freezing w/ wind chill from our speed.

Returning via Texas-hmmm. Well, I'll have access to a beach house in Galveston, Henry has a daughter near Big D, and Austin's bitchin'!!
Doing this route would most likely cost us the "Dragon", but we would have some coastal roads if we jumped on 98West, New Orleans & the French Quarter and then after re-grouping we could take 285 North which is fairly scenic and I think Ralph would certainly make the AMA @ PPIR by the party time May 31st. If that's the case, I'll likely join you @ the races.

Ideally this group finishes the ride together, however, this is just the start of the CSC annual touring and will not be the last EPIC ride(so I hope).
I must say I was hoping to get 1 rider to accompany me and am amazed and proud of quadrupling that #.
:twisted: Where you guys wanna go in '04? Cabo, Prince Edward Island, Prudho Bay, Great Lakes 50, Waltz across Texas, Buckeye 1000, Poker run from Hell, Laughlin?? Opportunities are endless.

Anonymous

Fri Dec 20th, 2002, 11:13 PM

Ok, 4/11. Noted, let's do this shiznit!! :D There should be a bigger group willing to go on the SS1K I agree - hmm, maybe even Spidey can get a kitchen pass for the weekend. :lol: I dunno what's up with the italian chick or any of the rest of 'em, though I bet we could convince Alicia to ride that SP-2 of hers down there with us (and maybe let a fellow Honda twin rider feel the difference ... *wink wink*), probably others. Long rides can be better or worse with lots of people, depending on the mentality of those going. I expect we'll be having some fun riding, I just don't like the idea of it turning into a group roadrace (which happens sometimes on these little club outings) and in the interest of not binning my bike right before the biggest ride I will have ever done, I won't join such events if they occur. :)

Yeah, those Cali mtns get cold. Then again plan for the same thing leaving the Colorado mountains as well - remember, there will still be snow *coming down* in the high country here at the end of May. I have been snowed on here as late as July. Cold weather gear is a given I think, though it should be easily stowable if possible.

Oooh, french quarter... :twisted: Wow, flashback of me 2 months ago... haha I think I can guide us around the good parts of N.O. if necessary at this point (there are some places we DO NOT go into, unless someone's packing). Granted it would cost us the Dragon coming back, but the return trip would be a lot more exciting as a whole IMO, since the rest of the way from the end of the Dragon to Denver is absolutely boring as hell. I've drive out there, and there ain't sh*t!

Provided we did make it back in time, Harry I am totally sure Bigtime (Matt) would be happy to put you up at his pad for the races, if you so desire. We usually party/crash (and party - OMG last year's "club night" was insane!), and get up early the next morning for a ride from his place to PPIR. Though this year I have no idea how he's gonna fit all the bikes in his garage, last year as it was he and I were literally picking them up and stacking them in like puzzle pieces. I think we got like 15 bikes in a single car garage though... :D

'04? :lol: Dude let's plan out this one first... hahaha

Anonymous

Sat Dec 21st, 2002, 12:38 AM

When are you guys planning on the SS1K?

I'm sure if Alicia's in town she'd be up for it.

I think I know another female rider that might be interested - Hanna - the tall chick with the british accent that was at the Toy Run. She told me that she rode to Vegas this past year with 11 other bikes! They did their run on Memorial Day weekend. She told me she'd definately be up for a Vegas run in '03.

Speaking of Vegas, Paul's got sombody at work that's willing to drive a chase vehicle! :up:

Anonymous

Sat Dec 21st, 2002, 08:18 AM

Vegas???

I think the SS1K run was a southerly trip, wasn't it? Vegas could be a cold ride in April... :o

Dysco

Sat Dec 21st, 2002, 08:33 AM

Cold is relative, dude. April's not bad for crossing the hump if you do it at midday... and if it's not snowing. :D Anyone up for a SS1000 in January? I'll be heading southeast.

Anonymous

Sat Dec 21st, 2002, 09:47 AM

Vegas was in addition to SS1K - tetatively planned for June-ish.

We did it this year June 21-17 (left Friday at 2 PM) & made it into Vegas Saturday night (would have been early afternoon if Alicia's bike hadn't broken down & spewn oil all over us!). The return trip was done in 1 day (Monday). Here's one of my favorite pics from that trip (click to see the full size pic):
http://www.cosportbikeclub.org/ClubPics/page26-Vegas/tn/img_0441.jpg (http://www.cosportbikeclub.org/ClubPics/page26-Vegas/img_0441.jpg)

Harry Biker

Sat Dec 21st, 2002, 12:00 PM

Nice pic web crawler! although I know you can't ride long this year, the 50CC crew is going past Vegas on 5/24/03, thus anyone wanting to have some company going to Vegas should plan on accompanying us. In fact, if you want to post that on scheduled events that'd be cool. Just keep in mind that they'll be on their own as far as lodging and return trip. Also, leaving 5/24 should make for just about perfect temps. BARN, you gonna ride to Vegas???

Anonymous

Sun Dec 22nd, 2002, 10:29 AM

So - will it be possible to throw a party at this guy's house in Fontana? The CSC coordinators (Spidey, Milehigh, Harry, and myself) met last night and were talking about having the club people who want to go to Vegas ride with us to Fontana, party/crash there that night, and us 50cc'ers will continue to San Diego while the rest of them can double back to Vegas.

So what's the verdict on this? Personally I think it'll be a blast, but it isn't my house so I don't want to bring 20 bikers in tow without knowing it's alright first. :D

Harry Biker

Sun Dec 22nd, 2002, 07:25 PM

Greetings,

Here's a few goodies that may come in handy for long distance traveling-
www.pdktech.com this is a light flare that is safer that the one I currently have packed in my tank bag,(fire hazzard) and is only $15.00

Also, for anyone not using an MP3,(which I'll assume will only be me)
www.discgear.com is a pretty nice carrying case for cd's. $25.00

For you tech geeks:
www.techsox.com these may lighten your packing load,(as you may not need to carry another pair) and they seem to be a good sock for higher temps

Anonymous

Sun Dec 22nd, 2002, 07:40 PM

Also, for anyone not using an MP3,(which I'll assume will only be me)I don't have an MP3 player yet (I'm too cheap to buy one!) :lol:

Nick_Ninja

Sun Dec 22nd, 2002, 09:59 PM

Harry Biker

Mon Dec 23rd, 2002, 11:21 AM

Hey Jeff,
Did you ride 1K this past weekend?

Anonymous

Mon Dec 23rd, 2002, 02:00 PM

Ok, did some calculating...

With my current gearing, the speedo is actually right on. I said 90mph at 5000 RPM in 6th - according to that calc page on the CSC site, it's 89.1mph. (As accurate as I'm gonna get with an analog readout.)

With a stock 41 tooth sprocket, and no changes in the front, if I drop to a 36 tooth I can sustain about 78mph at 3800 RPM in 6th. That's about the most cruising speed I expect to attain under normal riding for the 50cc, so that should save a ton of gas. Ironically wiht 10,000 RPM my speed would be 203mph... :lol: I'd never see that, but it's amusing to think about nonetheless. Since we'll be at sea level for most of this I think the power loss will be acceptable, so my first plan is to go for a 75-80mph cruise in 6th up the highway and see how far I can get (will bring some extra gas for when I run out - I want an absolute value - anyone wanna join me?), then figure at least 30 miles more from such a drastic gearing change.

So - what will happen to my chain length? Will I need to remove links for something like that, do you think? I'm not sure the wheel will move far enough back in the guides to adjust properly.

Anonymous

Mon Dec 23rd, 2002, 02:24 PM

Anonymous

Mon Dec 23rd, 2002, 03:13 PM

So - what will happen to my chain length? Will I need to remove links for something like that, do you think? I'm not sure the wheel will move far enough back in the guides to adjust properly.You will definately have to lose some links for that drastic a change. You're talking about 5 links, which is pretty close to 5 inches, isn't it?!

I know - how 'bout an extended swingarm? :D :lol:

2.5" (top and bottom), minus distance around, though the decreased radius of the sprocket will compensate for that somewhat. I'll be just outside the adjustable range probably, and will leave no room for flex.

My guess is losing 5 links will leave me just a little bit further out than I am now (1/2" increased wheelbase - oooh) but leave room for chain stretch still.

So, who has a chain tool and can do this sort of thing? :D

Anonymous

Mon Dec 23rd, 2002, 03:16 PM

So, who has a chain tool and can do this sort of thing? :DMileHigh probably has one & could probably help you out, but I don't think he's watching this thread.

Nick_Ninja

Mon Dec 23rd, 2002, 05:13 PM

Harry Biker wrote:
Did you ride 1K this past weekend?

No. In the process of switching jobs. Have too much busy work to ride.

Anonymous

Mon Dec 23rd, 2002, 09:50 PM

rforsythe wrote:

So - will it be possible to throw a party at this guy's house in Fontana?

No,at least @ his house. When I offered to give him a call and get a place to hang for the night I was under the impression that it would be only the three or four that were yakin' about the trip. I really don't want to impose a whole gang of bikers on him, his wife, or his two kids.

K, Harry/spidey your thoughts? It would be cool to have everyone ride with us at least to Vegas, but I don't have the money or desire to stay there to chill with the crew. so how do we bring everyone out there and do this thing?

Anonymous

Tue Dec 24th, 2002, 01:24 AM

K, Harry/spidey your thoughts? It would be cool to have everyone ride with us at least to Vegas, but I don't have the money or desire to stay there to chill with the crew. so how do we bring everyone out there and do this thing?Simple. We don't. We pick a spot near Vegas, like a gas stop 30 or so miles out of town, stop for gas, say our good-byes & well-wishes, then hit the road together, with one group exiting in Vegas, while you guys continue down the highway. That's the only way I can see it happening.

Harry Biker

Tue Dec 24th, 2002, 09:04 AM

Well said Spidey!

If people want to go to Vegas and also enjoy some of the best roads ever en-route, they'll go.

Anonymous

Wed Dec 25th, 2002, 09:10 PM

Gary, I totally spaced out checking out those risers @ the show! (And the other stuff too...)

When can ya meet up so I can look at it? For real this time? :D

Cap

Thu Dec 26th, 2002, 09:04 AM

I've got a chain tool, and I've taken out links before. If you still need it, let me know. I might be able to help you with it, depending on when. You'll probably need to get and extra master link. My tool can press on the rivit type, which I trust more than the clip type. Let me know!

Anonymous

Thu Dec 26th, 2002, 09:19 AM

:lol: I told my dad yesterday about our little ride here... He gave me this :wtf: look, and I said "well I mean it's a lot of riding, but we're working now on building up the endurance and conditioning for the ride, since we have to do the San Diego to Jacksonville part in under 50 hours". His reply was "That's not endurance. That's beyond endurance. I don't even know what to call that!" then came back with the :wtf: look. :D

Harry Biker

Thu Dec 26th, 2002, 08:34 PM

:idea: Hey guys,
We should go for a putt this Saturday. It's looking like the temps will be good and I think I'd be up for a 100 miler or so!!!
It'd be nice to meet both Dalton and Mike. Newbies have to buy the coffee :P

Also, I can't yet ride the extreme twisties as I can't rear brake and hard front braking jacks up my shoulder :cry: So, assuming you're hip to the flats or nothing more twisty than say CO. 105 to Palmer Lake I'd be happy to meet any/all @ Diedrich's coffee,(which is just the other side of University & Panera Bread in the Ranch-right next to Whole Foods) which has mo-betta coffee.
Shall we say 10:30 w/an 11am departure?? Henry if you're riding, I'll ride the "dresser" so's we can access the CB-good buddy.

Anonymous

Thu Dec 26th, 2002, 10:22 PM

Harry, your conversation in the 1088 topic got me thinking...

What's an average budget to plan for a trip like this?

Of course our stay in Fontana and Houston will be cheap (we should kick a few bills in our hosts' general directions for the hospitality, especially if they're changing our oil and stuff in Houston!), food during the 50cc part will be what you bring (snack foods and stuff), etc.

As I see it, we have a night in San Diego - need to figure out how many people they'll let stay in a hotel room from 2pm until 10pm, without them thinking there's something "iffy" going on in there - plus food and stuff there. A night in Jacksonville. Plus hotel/motel (motel 6? cheap) each night we are heading back, another reason to cut some time off. Plus food and gas (LOTS of gas, I figure $3-400 worth), tires, spares, police bribes, hookers, etc. (j/k on the spares... lol :D )

I'm going to have to start planning for this now financially, so thoughts or comments anyone? (hrm, this probably means no track bike for Ralph this year, unless something I'm not really expecting happens...)

Oh, got my tankbag for xmas, and a nice duffel I wasn't expecting from my mom - coincidentally with a hard bottom, strap-down points (really for a shoulder strap, but that's not how I see it :D ), and lots of room, plus cordura material, perfect bike size. Will go great on top of that lower-model excursion pack! Will need the rain cover for sure though. Oh well though, that's cool. Got my new spidi track gloves too, though I'll be getting some more tour-type ones for this thing. (plus gel grips)

gary n

Fri Dec 27th, 2002, 10:06 AM

Ralph, I will be home this evening, tomorrow evening, most of the day Sunday and Monday evening. I think I'm going to be out of town from Tuesday afternoon through next Sunday. Let me know if any of those times will work for you. Are you going on the ride from Morrison up the canyons or the one south to Palmer? I will throw the risers in my tankbag just in case I see you.

Harry, I am going to try to make the ride through Palmer on Saturday morning - I've been fighting a cold since yesterday so it depends on how I feel in the morning. The weather should be perfect so I hate to miss a chance to ride.

Anonymous

Fri Dec 27th, 2002, 11:00 AM

Gary, I might be going tomorrow, not 100% on that yet. I need to check with the g/f, she's getting back from visiting her family tonight. However I might be able to convince her to go for a bit of a ride tomorrow... :D If she comes I'll be taking it pretty easy (she's not a fast rider anyway, and especially not so in the turns, though she is getting better) but I don't think Harry will be pushing it either if he goes.

What sort of tools do I need to put those on? Just a spanner and maybe a screwdriver? What I'm thinking is maybe I could try them out tomorrow if I go, just put them on before the group leaves, since that shouldn't take too much time. Then I'd know pretty quick.

Also, what part of town do you live in? Maybe PM me your # so I can call you, I'm not sure what my level of activity on here will be this evening.

Anonymous

Fri Dec 27th, 2002, 11:02 AM

gary n

Fri Dec 27th, 2002, 11:15 AM

Ralph, you need a wrench for the bolt that holds the front brake line splitter to the frame (there is a spacer that moves the splitter up to give you more play in the brake lines) and an allen wrench to remove the clip-ons. I'm in Broomfield. I will PM my phone number.

I was planning on the canyon ride until Harry mentioned the ride to Palmer. Either one will work for me.[/img]

Nick_Ninja

Fri Dec 27th, 2002, 04:06 PM

Harry Biker wrote:

Hey guys,
We should go for a putt this Saturday. It's looking like the temps will be good and I think I'd be up for a 100 miler or so!!!
It'd be nice to meet both Dalton and Mike. Newbies have to buy the coffee

Dalton's bike has the heads off getting a polish job done. He can't make this trip. I might show @ Morrison @ 10:00 for b-fast.

towneh

Fri Dec 27th, 2002, 04:31 PM

yep, there was a cb (midland 75-822) and a kit for helmet-based audio system under my tree!!!! it is my intent to show up for better coffee. still building the list of 24hr stations for the 1kss in early april (fuel is hard to come by in the vicinity of Glorieta,NM).
tomorrow,
henry
(harry, monday looks like 'tire replacement' day. do you want drive a nail in my 170/60zr17 D207 ???) :idea:

Harry Biker

Fri Dec 27th, 2002, 05:34 PM

Ralph,
I don't think the total cost will be all that bad, albeit prepare for the worst,(and I'm glad to hear you're thinking of that now!!)

Gas will not exceed $250. $300 though is a safer bet. I figured that @ $1.75/gallon,(yes I know some stations may be higher and some lower) x 5 gallons,(average tank size) x 28 fill-ups!!
That's 5600 miles divided by 200 miles,(again average range-neither you nor I will quite hit that, but then again, we won't be putting 5 gallons in either)

Water while on the bike should be free,(assuming you have a Camel Back or similar, or carry a gallon etc.)

Buy your food you plan to eat while on the 50CC, ideally in Denver.
Yes we will also hit some restaurants, but most likely before and after the 50CC.

You do not need to pay any $$ for Houston and you will be fed too. My family is a bunch of bikers and that means you do not pay.

As far as oil goes, I think we'll all be ok changing oil in Jacksonville. That'll be approx 3600 miles,(assuming you change oil right before we leave) Surely if you're using a synthetic that'll be fine and because it is freeways, you'd likely not need to change it until Denver.
I however will most likely change mine in Jacksonville. 5 bikes, 5 different brands :lol: 5 different shops needed.

We've yet to decide about sleeping arrangements on the return trip. Assuming we do double back @ least to Houston,(you can most likely also sleep @ the beach house for free,(but you could also do that in Austin I'll assume)

So, we're talking most likely 3 nights paid in a hotel or KOA type cabin,(I know, that's for wusses).

Ralph, if you want to go in on the cheap,(I do) we should shoot for KOA's. If you'd prefer motel 6 type place @ least we won't have to carry a sleeping bag. However, with the cabin, typically 3 can sleep in their own bed. Motel 6-unless there's a pull out bed then only 2 can sleep to a room,(and I ain't sleeping w/ no stinking biker-in the same bed, unless he's a she and that does not seem to be happening..kidding of course Michelle)

So, I figure the trip could safely be done w/ gas, fresh tires, 3 nights lodging and fairly decent food for $ 800. Have a credit card for emergency $$ and you'll be fine.

Yes, $ 800 is not the cheapest,(and I realize since most of our bikes are not completely set up the way we want them it's actually more) but when your girl friends, in-laws, kids, and grand kids ask you about how you spent your summer, the stories and memories will be worth it.

Go play with the canyon boys tomorrow. I'll fart around w/ King Henry and his CB on the boring ride and I'll be on the Harley thus you must stay where you can still sound the best :lol:

Anonymous

Fri Dec 27th, 2002, 06:24 PM

Cool, I was using the equation of 6000 miles / 150 miles a tank * $8 a tank, so that's a high end figure. I'd just hate to get close to home and get the dreaded "card denied" message at the pump... :D

I'm debating bringing a camelback, though I probably should get one. Spidey I think was talking about these L-shaped nozzles that are perfect for helmets. What do those cost anyway? Where do I pick one up?

For food: I suggest one of us (i.e. not me) with a Sams Club membership or something similar, buys bulk food. We can all get it a lot cheaper that way, and with 5 of us buying in large quantity should be fine.

I know we don't need to pay money in Houston and all, it's more of a show of gratitude for the hospitality and help...

Oil, oil, oil... Hmm, well, being as these will be the easiest miles my bike has ever seen, 5600 miles between changes might be ok actually. I think I'll bring some extra, plus a filter "just in case", but I *only* use the best synthetic oil I can get my hands on. (Castrol right now @ $5/qt, will switch to the Mobil 1 stuff next change however.) I'm pretty adamant about giving my bike good stuff. We'll see, but unless we get some damn good pricing I doubt I'll pay for shop labor to change it.

I'm all for cheap on the lodging situation, and have absolutely no problems putting a sleeping bag on the bike. I just threw motel 6 out there as it was the first thing that popped into my head, KOA is fine with me. While I don't want to come back looking (and smelling) like a hillbilly, I don't need the four seasons either. Just a place to shower in the morning... I am not sure what my lodging would be like in Austin currently, I'm not sure the people I plan to go visit are set up for guests. Which brings up another interesting question - are we all riding back together, splitting up, or ?? What's the plan, stan? I'd prefer to stay with at least one other person, just because of the distance factor primarily. I'm also kind of waiting for Matt to figure out if he's having his AMA party this year, since that determines how fast I try and get back...

Dysco

Fri Dec 27th, 2002, 11:01 PM

Ralph-

a camelback (or whatever) bladder is essential. I used the one that I mountain bike with (they all have an L shaped nozzle lately) and the only problems I had were:

1) Having the nozzle fall to where the tank and I came together- lucky I had my rain gear on at the time... Find a way to route it that it's not hanging out all the time. There are a million ways to do it- my latest idea is to tape elastic cord 12 inches from the tip and hook the other end on a quick release to a ring on my jacket.

2) Bring/buy bottled water for it. Most gas station tap water tastes like ass- it'll ruin your whole on-bike water experience. Do the bottled water thing.

Be sure to drink lots of water- the more you drink, the farther you can go.

Oh yeah- take a bottle of advil on each bike.

Harry Biker

Sun Dec 29th, 2002, 12:37 PM

Ralph,

If you don't want to spring for a bladder type drinking system you could consider a gallon jug and drill a small hole in the top and just fish in some tubing-walla, cheap drinks.
I'll agree w/ Mike about the taste of water as bottled water is better, but sometimes you can luck out and get ok tasting water from a softdrink dispensor. I used that system last year for Vegas and it was free.

This is most likely what I'll be eating while on the bike, or @ a gas station:
bananas, power bars, jerky and trail mix. So if you can tolerate those tasty morsals I gladly split the cost.

Scenic byways, Deals Gap, T.W.O., Nat'l parks, Ozarks, New Orleans, Galveston etc. etc.?????

I know Jeff has more vaca and am not sure what you prefer to do. Henry seems flexable and I am too. So I suggest we vote.

My vote is to return to Texas and for this year miss out on the Gap. I've already cleared it w/ my wife and she is cool w/ you sleeping @ the beachhouse /condo if you do not want/get to crash in Austin.

Ralph, where are we @ w/ witnesses and back-up witnesses on both coasts?

Harry

towneh

Sun Dec 29th, 2002, 02:56 PM

for what it is worth; i keep water 'ONLY' in my camelback because the other stuff (i.e. gatorade and the like..) make the reservoir/hose/bite-valve 'gummy'. i will carry some bottles of gatorade and/or buy it on the road because electrolytes are important for endurance.

simple road food like harry has mentioned is essential; i add fig bars as well...

my vote is to return to Texas; i might visit my daughter in Tyler or just keep going.... i don't think i'd really enjoy the Deal after shooting across the country at break-neck speed!!!!

i will tape up the connections for my audio system next time! i will place the order for my cb antenna tomorrow. i'll have another set of tires on tomorrow as well (thanx mike/jim...).

the fuel list for the 1k to socorro will be verified next week; i'll verify it again in early april... i'm laying out an east-west 1k ala jeff's suggestion to wichita with a list of fuel stops as well.

and the beat goes on...
henry :D

Anonymous

Sun Dec 29th, 2002, 09:58 PM

Ok, installed some goodies on the hawk this weekend (thanks gary!):

Sargent seat... Ohhh yeah baby! I like!
Risers - Have not ridden with them yet, however as my 4runner's radiator just started spewing coolant like a fountain (A/C condenser coil came unbolted and planted itself in the radiator) I'll be riding a lot this week, so I'll get to try them.
Mirror extenders - holy crikey, I can see past my elbows!
Double bubble screen - same as the risers, have not tried it yet. Will shortly...

Also got a 15 tooth sprocket, which I'm ready to install as soon as I verify my technique, I just need to make sure I do this right so as to not mess up the clutch slave cylinder, since I do not want to bleed that thing right now (a BITCH if there is air in the line). I'll change that fluid when I get steel lines for the clutch/brakes... I'm thinking I'll leave the 15 on if I like it, except for the trip and mileage testing (that'll get a 16 front and 36 rear, plus a custom length chain). Though I expect some frontal gravity issues... :twisted:

Gary I'll let ya know asap on this stuff. So far, I like it! :D

gary n

Sun Dec 29th, 2002, 11:33 PM

Ralph,
I was pretty sure you would like the seat - I was extremely happy with the difference it made! If the red piping bothers you, check with a shoe repair shop and they may be able to dye it black - I don't know what kind of dye you would use since it's not leather.

Henry,
does the CB antenna that fits on the handheld unit not do a good job? Are you going with a 3' whip instead? I am still interested in a CB for trips even though I probably won't make the 50CC this year.

I didn't make either of the rides this weekend since my cold was still kicking my butt. It sounds like everybody had fun though.

Anonymous

Sun Dec 29th, 2002, 11:54 PM

Actually, the red ties in well with the taillight, and the bit of red lettering/striping in my devil cans (and the seat kinda matches the carbon fiber too), so I think I'll probably leave it. :up: It almost looks ... "planned"... :D

I think for our trips the handheld antenna might be ok, but for catching truckers on it you might want something better. There was that license-plate mounted one I saw, that might work well. Especially on a sportbike of sorts, a 3' whip will be interesting.

gary n

Mon Dec 30th, 2002, 01:18 AM

towneh

Mon Dec 30th, 2002, 08:02 AM

hi gary n ralph,

here is the story about the handheld cb. used it the other day with the 6AA batterys and the rubber-ducky antenna. it works but the range is pretty short. i'm leaning toward using the kit that the unit came with to convert it to a mobile unit. while it is a great thing that the unit will plug into my electrical system, it will also require an external antenna.

i also believe that a 3 foot antenna would beat me silly on the back of my RF. i will order a Firestik model ds14-fg which looks like a 14inch cell phone antenna. Epinions and other groups have a high regard for this antenna. it is designed to address the problem of 'no ground plane' which is true for motorcycles and other low mass vehicles. however, there will be some 'creativity' in play to install it!

that's my take on the antenna issue,
henry

Anonymous

Mon Dec 30th, 2002, 01:11 PM

Tapeworks or Tricktape could fix you up with some red flames or other graphics too.

That was my thought on the 3' whip too - is it going to flop around too much at higher speeds? Henry mentioned ordering a CB antenna so I figured the hand-held one wasn't working good enough.

Don't want decal flames... I have some ideas for some pretty cool stuff there though, for the tank on the Yamy... :D Actually I just had a moment of inspiration, and am considering figuring out some kind of wicked tribal design for the hawk. Unknown whether I will use the current fairings, or something else, or find another set and play with those. I'm thinking airbrushing will be the way to go just because of the level of detail and color variation I want and would feel bad destroying the new paint job on the thing. I want to learn to airbrush on curved surfaces (so I can do my XS750 tank, and maybe my own helmet) anyway... We'll see. That's a long way out yet.

I spent an hour and a half cleaning the bike last night - 45 min of which was spent on the chain alone. I really need to keep that clean from now on! (I had actually forgotten it wasn't supposed to be black... :oops: )

3' whip - my concern would be a suitable mounting place. You need to bolt to something substantial, especially since the top will be free and it could flop around. I'm just going to pick up one of those license plate antennas I think, or fabricate something of my own (i.e. make a bracket w/ a BNC panel connector, use the radio's antenna on that, run a cable to the radio). This will make for less clutter up front, and I'm guessing I could do it for about $5 total. (Offer applies to anyone who wants something like this, I'll do it for cost of materials and a beer.)

Harry Biker

Wed Jan 1st, 2003, 11:20 AM

Happy New Year!!!!! '03 Should be 1 great biking year!!

Only 142 days left shoppers :lol:

Get yer "Screaming meanie",(or similar) as I think it's only fitting that we stop (temporarily) for a broken bike, but the would be Iron Butter that needs to catch a few winks should be left SOLO for whatever time they may need @ the local Iron Butt motel -thus the need to awaken oneself.

I do hope we're all in agreement about that as I know you know, w/ 5 riders the chance that we'll all want to nap,(if needed to stay safe) @ the same time ain't gonna happen.

I've decided to only carry a sleeping bag and tarp for just such a need and the possibility of most likely 1 camping night,(which I think would take place mid-Texas on the way home)

New Orleans & the French Quarter is an issue. Since it's only pedestrian- unless we actually have a hotel nearby, that would leave us parking potentially loaded bikes where they can't be observed by the good guys.

Returning via Houston- all are welcome to stay in Galveston w/ my wife & daughter. I'd appreciate knowing who's going to do that by Feb. 1st.

Ralph,
Who's are planned witnesses on each coast?

towneh

Wed Jan 1st, 2003, 01:42 PM

Hello harry, Jeff, Ralph, Dalton, et al,

answers in reverse order….

>>> I’d like to sign up for the Galveston retreat on the return leg; it turns out that my daughter will be preparing for her semester finals at UT.

>>> New Orleans is almost as rough as New York but there are some sections that are downright spooky. I’m not crazy about leaving my trusty steed unattended either! While it might not be right on the F Qtr, I’m sure we’ll find a nice dining establishment where we can observe our bikes.

>>> I think you’re right about the ‘minimalist’ approach to camping equipment. However, the wuss that I am will cause me to include a thermarest pad.

>>> ok,ok I’ve concluded that my little alarm clock ‘might not’ be enough; better to err on the safe side of preventing over-sleep problems. I will buy an ‘obnoxious’ S.M. unit.

>>> then additionally… :idea:
As for individual personal responsibilities and support amongst us, I would suggest a ‘buddy system’ just like scuba divers implement. The notion of ‘everybody checking everybody’ becomes redundant and wasteful of time. This being said, I realize that we have 5 riders that have committed to participate in this challenge…. No worries; continue with our efforts because one of us may not be able to participate <<OR>> we may add another rider to our little jaunt! Sleep; when we need it should become a personal responsibility to ourselves. The one(s) who sleep will catch-up later on in Hou or JacksV. As for what happens in the event of vehicle failure or accident; all that will hinge on the Law and your buddy. That means that ‘buddies’ will need to understand what each other expect of the other… I know, I know… another form of commitment! :o

Harry will start the clock for our 15-minute fuel/flush/food stops (my gps records stop times as well…) and I’ll bring a whistle to announce the 2 minute alert! (the buddy system would work well here as well…) Better to reserve any time we can for when we really need it.

Got me another item to experiment with…. an 90/130 watt H4 bulb! Anybody up for a dark ride out on rt. 86 on Friday or Saturday evening?!?!? (assuming we don’t have any ice/etc) :o

my mp3 player with eargel/earbud speakers works nicely. the unit is a Rio Volt SP50 which is the bottom of their line. compressed mp3 files mean about 8+ albums on one CD. If anybody else wants to go this route, I’ll gladly rip/burn his or (her???) selection. :D

Just sent back my trial-fit aerostitch; the wearable suitcase is everything they said it was. I wanted to run the ‘deluge’ test but I was too excited…. I’ll get my custom by Jan 9th. I’ve already started mapping out where everything will be stashed. :lol:

Ralph, any hope regarding the 200 mpg range ??? I think we’ve got Harry to switch to his peppy Yamaha and Jeff/Dalton are old hands at this stuff… I know that I’m holding our stops to 177 miles to address windage and other potential performance deterrents. I don’t think you’re going to get everything you’ll need with gearing changes. Anything on the bigger tank/fuel cell ??? oh yeah, witnesses at both ends are important too!!!

workin'
Henry

Harry Biker

Wed Jan 1st, 2003, 05:36 PM

Anonymous

Wed Jan 1st, 2003, 05:42 PM

:lol: You're bringing a whistle....with all the figs you'll be eating couldn't you just be the FART ALARM? You know...you could give off warning blasts every 30 seconds or so. If a rider was still in the store, you could press the intercom system @ the station and, well, you know :P

:spit: Sounds like this will be him: :fire: :lol:

Guess he should be in back then, huh? Wouldn't want to asphyxiate any of the rest of the group accidentally... :D

Anonymous

Wed Jan 1st, 2003, 06:21 PM

I'm amazed this thread is 9 pages for 5 people going on a little road trip! :lol: Wonder how many more it'll get to by May...

Here's a link for saving gas. It's all stuff you know already, but good nonetheless:
http://www.peemac.sdnpk.org/resource/fert/tips6.html

I'm seeing what other options I can come up with. From a pure safety standpoint I'm against the idea of an external fuel bottle, cell, or tank of any kind, and for the cost of a cell I could probably get the Harris tank and paint it myself. However they don't have it listed on their site anymore so I'm trying to find out what I can.

Of course that'll really screw up the magnetic tank bag I just got... :roll: It's just never easy...

On the people on each coast, I should have it taken care of now. I'm getting a list of everyone's names and numbers, I'll post back when I have it.

towneh

Wed Jan 1st, 2003, 07:02 PM

http://www.streetfighters-usa.com/harris_f_t_accessories.htm

http://www.zenbikes.com/HARRIS-TANK.html !talk rice with these guys

http://www.ema-usa.com/misc/misc_harris_fueltank.shtml

http://www.eti-fuelcel.com/ !something a bit different...

towneh

Wed Jan 1st, 2003, 07:18 PM

http://www.streetfighters-usa.com/harris_tanks.htm !oops; pictured but NOT listed........ ask 'em what's up!!!

and the japanese site only want 130k yen for the 24litre tank!!!!

ema looks useless.

eti explains why space crapper components cost as much as they do. :lol:

just fartin'figs here,
henry

Anonymous

Wed Jan 1st, 2003, 07:52 PM

Hahaha. Thanks for the links! Yeah, I saw the SP-1/2 tank, that's unbelievably expensive though. It used to be that a Harris tank could be had for about $500 plus the filler cap. Used ones virtually never pop up however. 24 liters is a lot of gas, so that would be useful, but I don't even know what to think about the 130,000 yen... :D

I emailed Harris to fnd out what's up, waiting for a reply. That'll come in hopefully while I sleep, so in theory I should know by the morning. (They're a UK-based company)

towneh

Wed Jan 1st, 2003, 08:07 PM

130k yen === about 1100 US ;)

Anonymous

Thu Jan 2nd, 2003, 11:09 AM

I think I have a place for us to crash in Jacksonville now as well, a guy offered up his place (with pool and maybe a hot tub by then) for the group after we get there...

Harry Biker

Fri Jan 3rd, 2003, 01:48 PM

:D You score that and I'm certain our fig totin friend and others would be happy to buy you a dinner.

Ralph,
you riding tomorrow?

Anonymous

Fri Jan 3rd, 2003, 01:53 PM

:D You score that and I'm certain our fig totin friend and others would be happy to buy you a dinner.

Ralph,
you riding tomorrow?

Umm, maaaaybe. I'm picking up a new radiator around 8:30am, and replacing the one in my 4runner, so if I finish that quickly enough I might go out for a bit. Hard to say really... I don't think it'll take very long, but my mechanical projects always seem to take more time than I plan on. :D

You?

Cap

Fri Jan 3rd, 2003, 03:09 PM

Umm, maaaaybe.

Yeah, we'll see when I show up at Ralph's house on my bike! LOL! He won't be able to resist getting out there!

Anonymous

Fri Jan 3rd, 2003, 03:55 PM

Umm, maaaaybe.

Yeah, we'll see when I show up at Ralph's house on my bike! LOL! He won't be able to resist getting out there!

I will either be knee deep in grease, or sipping coolant through a straw... :D

Harry Biker

Mon Jan 6th, 2003, 07:32 PM

Hey Henry -aka map guru,
Do you have us doing the "1604" loop in San Antone?? The MTF are in agreement that this is the best way vs staying I-10 the entire way.

Sadly, 1 of us recently got laid off and that may have a huge impact on Fontana. I hope you can still make the ride & I know you will do what you can do. Where does that leave Dillon?

We had talked about "Vegas #3" and the good possibility that we would have some riders from CSC go this far. So here's our options:
1) Fontana if we're lucky,(but it seems risky)
2) Vegas. A nice jaunt and likely cheap as people can cram into a room if they so choose,(assuming we get other riders) Keep in mind that it's a holiday weekend and that means Southern Cali will all be playing in Vegas and rooms will be hard to come by if we don't act fast.
3) Mesquite. Kinda like Vegas. 80 miles north on the boarder. VERY cheap rooms
4) push it into San Diego

Thoughts?

towneh

Mon Jan 6th, 2003, 09:41 PM

harry,
the software i'm using suggests using the 410 loop because the 1604 drops to a two-lane just south of Live Oak...... still working out alternatives with all the possibilities.
later,
henry

Anonymous

Mon Jan 6th, 2003, 10:13 PM

harry,
the software i'm using suggests using the 410 loop because the 1604 drops to a two-lane just south of Live Oak...... still working out alternatives with all the possibilities.
later,
henry

FWIW I've driven in rush hour in San Antonio around the loops - it's about as nuts as sunday morning in Denver. Not sure if two lanes will really slow us down that much, but time is of the essence. Also remember it takes a little bit of time to get from the outer to the inner loop (is that what it suggested taking?).

Who got laid off?

As for pushing it to SD - err, I have mixed feelings about that. A big part of me is saying not to burn myself out before the big push to Houston, which I'm inclined to agree with. Thoughts?

Harry Biker

Tue Jan 7th, 2003, 06:54 AM

The two lane is only for a few miles, but reportedly can get riders 2nd guessing where they are exactly- but you're the GPS guy!!! You know...kind a like the Skipper. You won't get us lost.

MAN!!!!! Warm weather heading our way. I know If I were not working it's be a great day to get a little SS1K in just fer the frick of it.

Too bad the mileage contest has yet to begun though huh? When it does begin though....I plan to win it :D

So there I was fartin around the ole Harley parts catalog last night....man they have some goodies. Might just have to make my touring bike an actual TOURING bike... also- I checked out Russell Day Long Sadles. Could be a nice little putt to Shasta Lake Cali to get it put on & me butt measured up nice & perty.
Anyone know of a local fuel tank repair place that can expand my stocker?

gary n

Tue Jan 7th, 2003, 08:48 AM

Harry, are you wanting to enlarge the tank on your Harley? Check the different catalogs - Custom Chrome, Bikers Choice, etc. There are 5, 6 and 7 gallon tanks available. A friend of mine in Dallas put 7 gallon tanks on his Heritage Softail. You might run into clearance problems - his stock windshield was hitting the tank at full turn of the bars.

I am planning on making the trip as far as Vegas with you all. I know rooms will be hard to find that weekend. I will make my reservations shortly.

Harry Biker

Tue Jan 7th, 2003, 06:54 PM

I thought about them, only I've not seen,(have not looked very hard) for an enlarged FLH tank. It differs from the others.

So VEGAS it is and must be then!!!!!!!

Anonymous

Tue Jan 7th, 2003, 07:23 PM

So can someone (Henry?) make up a revised travel plan with new dates/times as necessary and post it up? I have confirmed witnesses at both ends of the 50cc (including one cop I think) and a possible place to crash in Jax (actually 2 ppl offered, one has a jaccuzi and a g/f with stripper friends apparently), I just need to post back to all these people with the nailed down dates and times... was holding off until we were 100% sure of everything. I think we can be at this point.

If we're staying in Vegas, can someone get a room somewhere reserved? That's going to be a real busy weekend... Also - are we 100% sure we can safely park the bikes there? I'm a bit leary of that one, unless someone can ease my mind a bit.

towneh

Tue Jan 7th, 2003, 09:33 PM

here is what i think the lastest travel plan looks like; some of the finites are 'roughed'....
leaving at 0500 on the 24th, stopping in vegas somewhere/sometime
leaving vegas sometime early to mid-morning so that we arrive in SanD abt early afternoon to have a nice lunch and crash (sleep) till about 2100.

rally with witness(es) at designated fuel station (Mobil Sunsett Cliffs & W. Point Loma on Sunset Cliffs Blvd (South-West))near exit 0, rt 8, fuel at 2200 and GO

arrive in Hou abt 2030; crash (sleep) till 0330 and hit the road at 0400

if all goes well, rally with witness(es) at designated fuel station (Shell Station at 1539 South 3rd Street) at abt 1830 near exit a1a, rt 202, fuel up for documentation and collapse.

this is the schedule so far as i know it,,,,, it has been pretty dynamic. fueling intervals are still up in the air... i'm sure you'll let me know if i've screwed up here :lol: it's still a 'drill' at this point but it needs to come together in the near future!

later,
henry

oh yeah.... for those who desire we've got to allot some time for the 'beach ritual'.... vessels not included!!!

Harry Biker

Wed Jan 8th, 2003, 07:13 AM

So many cool things to do....so little $$-

I'll make a deal with you....like Monty Hall-That was a 70's game show for all you wipper snappers :) I do not have the time to get a good research going for an economical place to stay in Vegas, so if you can do that, I'll reserve 1 night. 1st to pay me back for their share can get the other bed. All others can be on the floor.

The last 2 yrs the CSC went I've stayed @ Bally's,(very nice) and connected to Paris. It was reasonably priced.
Last year we stayed @ Palace Station. Not quite on the strip, but 1/2 mile away or so. Cheaper too. Vegas will inflate the costs of that weekend. Remember, we won't have more than 20 hours or so in Vegas. A nice pool would be awesome though and Bally's trumped Palce Station's for sure.

As fas as bike safety goes. The Southern portion of the strip vs the older Northern portion most likely is safer. Bally's had a great arrangement and I felt 95% secure. Palace Station I felt 75% secure. We do not want to park below ground. Ground level next to valet is our safest bet. That being said, I've parked an MC in Vegas or surrounding areas 5 times and never had a problem. When I bought my dresser in Vegas,(I've bought 2 bikes from Sin city) I parked close to Olympic Gardens which should be experienced @ least once by every red blooded American male!!!!! :D and this was the most risky parking I did,(north side). Still no problem.
Santa got me a VERY stout lock that I'll be bringing and it can lock 3 bikes.

Let's coordinate our departure time to take in the scenic route which is not 1-70 to I-15. We will take in Nat'l. Parks,(their boarders @ least) and end up going through Zion!!!!!!!!! Also, arriving in Vegas so's we can access one of their awesome pools would be something to look forward too. Damn! I'm going to be eating cinnamon rolls soon :lol:

towneh

Wed Jan 8th, 2003, 10:28 AM

Let's coordinate our departure time to take in the scenic route which is not 1-70 to I-15. We will take in Nat'l. Parks,(their boarders @ least) and end up going through Zion!!!!!!!!! Also, arriving in Vegas so's we can access one of their awesome pools would be something to look forward too. Damn! I'm going to be eating cinnamon rolls soon :lol:

with that being said (i.e. 20 hrs in LV, etc...), we need to restructure our route/departure times to mesh with our original intent **OR** shift back our departure from SanD. please give me some suggestions as to what roads we will take to include the Nat Parks and Zion!!!

it is a moving target...
henry

Anonymous

Wed Jan 8th, 2003, 10:53 AM

First message board bug...

Without this post in here, even though Henry's is really the first post to start page 10 of this thread, it won't list page 10 ... but the index shows that he was the last one to post. Odd.

towneh

Wed Jan 8th, 2003, 11:42 AM

Amerisuite on Paradise Road (just east of the Strip... indoor and outdoor pool--3 year old facility above-ground parking but no valet.... May 24th with a 3pm check-in.
:) henry :)

Harry Biker

Wed Jan 8th, 2003, 12:14 PM

It won't take 20 hours. 14- 15 max!!

I -70 to Utah. South on 24to Hanksville,( just past Green River.)
@ Torrey, we pick up 12 South to Mount Carmel
9 West through Zion
I-15 South to Vegas.

This tells me we should depart Denver approx. 1am. Gas stations could be an issue, but I doubt it as most open by 6am.

Harry Biker

Wed Jan 8th, 2003, 12:26 PM

Nice quick work finding that! I knew Vegas would be selling out. There still should be rooms available though for other CSC members that want to stay longer than we can.

Ralph, you should put out a global post re: VEGAS # 3. We're leaving no later than 2am on 5/24. Tell em to get rooms quickly.

Henry,
I'll pay you 1/2 the room today. Unless someone can beat me to you, that means I've got a bed :) Anyone else can then pay 1/3rd. All except for Surfing astronauts should be able to bed down for free don't you think? :lol:

Harry Biker

Wed Jan 8th, 2003, 12:30 PM

:idea: Since we're now on a roll as far as making reservations. Henry, do you want me to lock in Motel 6 tonight? Let me know & I'll put Mr. Visa into action.

Anonymous

Wed Jan 8th, 2003, 01:13 PM

Harry, go ahead and make the post about Vegas #3, you probably have the details more in order on this than I do. You are a mod for the announcement forum, so you can post it there. Do that and then spidey or myself can bounce it to the email list.

Someone with Mr Visa ;) should lock down the hotel/motel rooms or KOA cabins in every location we plan to be, even if we might have other accomodations (i.e. jacksonville). We can always cancel the rooms later or put them on different cards, but this way we won't have to worry about reservations.

Harry Biker

Thu Jan 9th, 2003, 11:51 AM

Gary,
Just an FYI....don't know if you'd be interested in a Concourse, but there's a pretty good deal for an '02 w/ service deal-which means free service likley for the next 2-3 yrs!! It's in today's paper. I'm tempted myself to call.

I've owned one of these before and you get a lot of bang for your buck. Almost a 300 mile range stock. Approx. 135 mph. Good weather protection. Stock hard bags that are removable. Handles pretty good,(not S-Hawk good). good ergos etc. etc.

Also, we do have a reservation in Vegas @ Amerisuites, although I'm sure you can actually get on the strip as we're not.

gary n

Thu Jan 9th, 2003, 01:20 PM

Harry, it's all yours - go for it. The Concorse is a nice bike but needs an update real bad. I'm going to wait for about another year and then I would like to get something like the FJR1300 or the new Interceptor. I really liked the FJR when I got to see it up close and in person at the show. My work schedule doesn't allow for much time off so a touring bike is wasted on me for now.

I traded the Hawk for a '99 Hayabusa. It is super clean and in my all-time favorite color - the copper/silver. I've only ridden it a couple of times but I'm in love. It's a torque monster and more comfortable than the hawk was with the GenMar risers. I will put Helibars on it soon which should make a big difference.

I will make my Vegas reservations soon so I'm sure to have place to stay. I have a good friend who has family in Vegas and may meet me there. In that case I would have a place to stay for free.

I haven't looked at a map, but it looks like we are going to miss the Escalante Staircase on the way down. I will have to pick it up on the way back.

Harry Biker

Thu Jan 9th, 2003, 01:37 PM

8) BUSA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 8)
Very cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!! '99, best year, best color!! Kind of like a black CBRXX. Why call a silver or red or blue CBR1100XX a Blackbird??

I'm not exactly sure where the Escalante Staircase is, but we do go through the town of Escalante. I guarantee you will not be unhappy with the route. I did goof a tad though. I forgot to add road 89 South then to 9

gary n

Thu Jan 9th, 2003, 02:01 PM

Paul talked about the Escalante Staircase before the Vegas trip last year. I think he must heve been talking about the road after it leaves the town of Escalante and touches the edge of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument on the way to Zion. You've got it covered - I thought we were headed through a different part of the state because I didn't recognise the names and roads. You're right - we won't be disapointed. I've seen pictures and it looks amazing. I can't wait!

Harry Biker

Fri Jan 10th, 2003, 11:12 AM

Nothin like a 220mph speedo and hwy 24 South towards Hanksville. My guess is you could do that stretch in 20 minutes!!!

Have you heard from Paul? I think he may be going too??

gary n

Fri Jan 10th, 2003, 12:18 PM

I haven't heard from Paul, but when I saw Bob at the bike show he mentioned that he had seen Paul and it sounded like he would make the Vegas trip this year. Bob had also mentioned the possibility of his wife driving a chase/support vehicle.

Harry Biker

Sat Jan 11th, 2003, 07:09 PM

Ralph, Jeff, Dalton-

Rumor has it the IBA is taking a long time to process riders records for proof of this ride. We are not clear if we can do the 50CC prior to the IBA processing our documents. It is possible we could submit our SS1K paperwork and still complete the 50CC without their blessing, but what a huge risk. Unless someone actually checks this out, we may want to bump up this ride from 4/11/03 to ASAP. Physically I should be able to do this in 3 weeks.

Henry and Mike,(who may join us on the epic ride :) ) are willing to do this from approx. a 4AM start,(we should be able to do this in a max of 16 hours-I'll guess 15 hours) if our temps don't drop below 30 degrees and no precipitation-on a weekend. We could get lucky weather wise....or maybe not. So assuming you'd want to go with this group be ready to ride w/ about 1 weeks notice. CB's will make a huge difference. Henry got completely hooked up for $ 200 and was chatting w/ his good buddies all day today.

Assuming this does not work for you. I'm most likely going to ride out just past Reno-North of Redding to get a seat, but I'll likely do that in April and company's almost always good. That is unless I buy an RT, no I mean a Concours, or maybe I just need to do it on an FZ1 :lol:

Dysco

Sat Jan 11th, 2003, 08:45 PM

Yo Harry- I was totally right... (I kick ass! :D)

Off the IBA site:

"NOTE: Due to verification, this list is approximately 60 days behind any given ride date...Last update 01/03/03 for rides through September 30, 2002"

Mike

towneh

Sat Jan 11th, 2003, 08:58 PM

excerpts copied from the iba website for clarification…..

the witness requirements for the ss1k…

Witnesses for the basic SaddleSore 1000 and Bun Burner 1500 may be a friend (but not one on the ride with you), spouse or even gas station attendant willing to answer a letter from the IBA about your start or end time.

the 50cc is classed as an extreme event with the following rules for witnesses…

Find at least one police officer, firefighter, judge, notary public or authorized Iron Butt Association member (if you are on-line, there is a list maintained at: http://home.earthlink.net/~s2rider/witness-state.html) willing to sign your witness form (sample attached). If you use a Police Officer, or other public official, you may fill out the witness section with the Police Station/Fire House or other business address. Ask the officer/firefighter (etc) to supply his badge number and note it on the witness form. Should you be unable to find a willing police officer (please note that to date, this has rarely been a problem for our thousand-miler - it is easier than it sounds) or you wish to start your ride from a motorcycle dealership, the Iron Butt Association will gladly accept the signature of any two dealership employees. If that is not possible, you will have to find at least three (3) independent eye-witnesses.

and here are the details pertaining to the certification process...

When we get your ride documentation, one of several people will start the verification process. Due to the extensive work involved (keying data into mileage spreadsheets, map verifications, witness contacts where needed and certificate preparations) and the fact that approximately 60% of the labor involved with producing these awards are performed by volunteers, it will usually take a minimum of five to six weeks before your certificates will be ready for signature and mailed to you. We realize this is a long time to wait for your certification. However, our certification process is very thorough. In fact, the certification process is what gives your certificate value. It would be very easy for the Iron Butt Association to simply take money and print up a certificate, however, the value of the entire certification program is in the fact that not just anyone can get the SaddleSore certification. The downside is this process takes time... We can only offer that when you recieve your certification you know that not only you earned it, but so did any other rider that you meet with the same certification.
Before we can issue your certification, you may be asked to clarify certain aspects of your ride and/or documentation by either e-mail, phone or letter. Additionally, certain aspects of your ride are subject to audit by yet another set of IBA volunteers charged with insuring only people that rode the miles get the award. Should your package get tagged for that audit, it too may delay the final determination of your claim for the award.

--what is long and hard???
the ride!
:lol: henry

Harry Biker

Wed Jan 15th, 2003, 07:45 AM

Ok....made a reservation for 1 room & 2 beds @ the fabulous Motel 6 in SD. I have a confirmation #, but interestingly they did not bill my credit card. Could be that they could not plug me into the computer as they did not recognize my zip code.

So....anyone else wanting a room, you know what to do. Last week they had several available. They'll love us too as we'll only be in the room/s for 7 hours :)

:idea: I have a thought for New Orleans- you guessed it KOA Kabin 8)
This is located 30 miles east of the French Quarter and they offer a free shuttle!!,(no driving in the quarter) Hurricanes here we come! 3 beds in 1 room!! Think about it!!!!!
Course...if you do take this offer you must publicly admit that you are a wuss :lol:

For anyone itching to get the SS1K even sooner than planned-you know who you are :P - This Sunday's looking pretty good weather wise.

Lastly, who, what, where are our witnesses??????? Also, where are we sleeping in Jacksonville again?

towneh

Wed Jan 15th, 2003, 10:06 AM

hello harry,
this will be formal notification that i --am-- a wuss. tell me what you need to secure a place in your KOA Kabin near the Big Easy... let me know abt my portion of the M6 in SanD. perhaps we could sub-let the room to those with 'special needs'!?!?!?!?!?!?

soooooo, we'll keep the 177 (+/-) range and you fill every-other!!!! is this new range capability stemming from a new steed or an aux jug??

-wuss in yellow-
:lol: henry

Harry Biker

Wed Jan 15th, 2003, 10:19 AM

Both, maybe ;)

still dealing with the cell guy in Seattle. He'll send me the sh-t which is a lot more than the feull cell for $800,(fingers crossed)

Still need to actually get the new steed and am working on that too.
Life is short. $$'s nice, but not that important since you can't take it with you.......

Motel 6. We'l square up with them @ check out. price w/ tax was $66 in change.

KOA won't work that way, thus I'll be using the VISA tonight, unless anyone objects to staying there. I do think it's a good way to go to keep the bikes safe and still enjoy what that town has to offer. Not to mention it'll be cheap,(I get 10% off)

Anonymous

Wed Jan 15th, 2003, 11:26 AM

Ok, I should have more than enough witnesses at both ends and maybe even a cop in Jax, I'm making my big list of names and numbers now and will post it back here (have been pretty busy recently so I have not had time).

Lodging in Jax - I have had 3 people offer lodging and one guy offered to research hotels for us, I think reserving something would still be prudent just in case but I think this will work out.

Fuel cells ... $120?! That's f'in cheap! The line and fittings will probably be another $25-30 plus prep/install time, but still, that's not a bad way to go. If I can figure out a way to get that and the luggage on the bike at the same time, I'm down for that as my fuel option, and I may just leave the gearing as one-down in the front for more fun (plus a sprocket+chain = $$). I should prolly find another rear plastic section tho since I can all but guarantee I'll be scratching it up. Wonder about the subframe strength too, that may need some help. Probably just a cross-brace down to something low would work. That can be bolt on with some creativity.

CB - that chatterbox thing looks the business! that's the same radio we were talking about before that we liked, right? Looks the same in the pics but they didn't list any model info. Either way that price is great and has everything one might want. (I wanted that radio because of the weather receive capability, which is why I ask - the CB portion I don't care much about, CB's are CB's.)