Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Crusty on December 04, 2014, 08:51:30 AM
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Possibilities
I’m seriously considering hitting the road for a while when the weather gets warmer. It’s been decades since I lived as a true Tramp and since I’m not nearly as young and flexible as I used to be, I have to think things out a bit first.
I have a good tent, and it should be adequate for at least this summer. I’ll probably want to get a better sleeping bag; and I think I should get an air mattress. I’ve been using a couple of Thermarest pads, but I think one air mattress would be a better idea than two pads on top of each other. Also, I think I should get a Jet Boil. I’ve really become addicted to my morning coffee.
Another thing I‘m pondering is what bike should I ride. I thought about getting a cheap used Guzzi. (a Tonti five speed in some flavor), but finding shops is kinda tough sometimes, and I still haven’t gotten over the time my 850 T ate it’s u-joint in Minneapolis. There was only one dealership in the state, and they didn’t have one. I had to leave my bike there for a month, then fly back and pick it up. Then I had to redo the job out in the parking lot, as the kid who worked on the bike didn’t know much about the bike, and didn’t do the job right.
My Norge has lost its sparkle for me. It’s got less than 65,000 miles, and it just doesn’t quite give me the feeling that it would be trouble free enough. Add to that the scarcity of Guzzi dealers, and using it looks even less attractive. I don’t know if I’ll sell it or store it.
I’ve thought seriously about getting an old Buell S3-T, but they’re getting pretty scarce, and they aren’t quite as cheap as they were a few years ago. The problems that plagued my old ’98 have been addressed, and the bike could be pretty reliable. If I could find one cheap enough, it would be a serious contender.
I’m thinking about getting a used Sportster; preferably one from between ’91 and ’03. The Sportster has an incredibly stout engine. It should be good for close to 100,000 miles without serious maintenance. If I get a 5 speed, it’ll have belt drive, which is low maintenance, and should it become necessary, easy to replace. Oil changes are a snap as is primary chain adjustment. And if something does go wrong that I can’t fix on the side of the road, there are Harley dealers everywhere. And there are even more decent Independent repair shops. Yeah, Sportsters vibrate; but I used to drill rock for a living and the vibes are nothing compared to what a Jackleg drill produces. I can handle the vibes.
I’ve owned a few Sportsters over the years, and I’ve put tens of thousands of miles on them. Right now, there’s a glut of used Sportsters on the market, and the prices are really affordable. I’ve found three this week alone on Craigslist for well under 3 grand (two are $2500 and the prettiest one is at two grand). One thing I have to consider is how much it will cost me to set up the bike. I don’t like forward controls, ape hangers or loud pipes. If I’m going to be riding this bike for days at a time, I want it to be comfortable. Mid controls and Highway pegs work for me, and I know what bars would be right, as well (they came stock on a ’79 FXEF, along with many other models). Plus, I want waterproof hard bags. That could be a bit tough to find, but I know they’re out there.
So far, it all looks pretty much doable. There’s only one small problem, and that’s medical. I have to take a blood thinner every day, and the level of it in my blood is critical. Too much, and I could bleed to death; too little and I’m likely to have a stroke. I’ve been getting my blood drawn every week or two to measure the levels and that involves going to the hospital and having them stick me with a needle. I know that there’s a device that measures the levels that works in a similar manner to what diabetics do to measure their sugar. I prick my finger and place a drop of blood on a little piece of film, then insert it into this device that reads the level of Warfarin in my blood. For some stupid reason, the insurance company won’t pay for this device even though it would save them thousands in short order. They will pay for the supplies for it, though. I guess I’ll just have to pony up the cash and buy the tester on my own (Any time you think dealing with a government bureaucracy is bad; just try dealing with an Insurance Company bureaucracy. They make the Feds look streamlined).
Back when I was a Tramp, one of my travelling companions was David Kaelin. He never paid rent anywhere. He had a job working on a Tow Boat pushing barges on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and he worked one month on, one month off. When he was at work, he lived on the boat. When he was off the boat, he would get on his bike and travel. I learned a lot from him about how to live on the road. I think it can be done for a reasonable price.
I have many friends and Family that I haven’t seen for a long time. I’d really enjoy travelling around, maybe catching a few Flat Track races, and visiting my two brothers and sister and their families, and seeing my friends across the country. I also want to see a few things that I just never got around to; like Monument Valley or Las Vegas or the North side of Lake Superior; or maybe even Alaska. I still have the itch to ride up to the Arctic Circle.
After doing this for the summer, I could jump on a plane and fly to Brisbane and spend some time with Ron and Melia and let the winter here pass by. For once, I could do North in the summer and South in the winter. For years, I would go to a warm climate in the summer, and then come back to New England for the winter months. I didn’t even have the sense that God gave a duck!
Oh; one other thing I’d have to get is a laptop computer so I could keep in touch with everybody and post on my favorite forums. I also have to learn how to take pictures with my cell phone, but that will be easy enough, or maybe just get an inexpensive Point and Shoot camera.
Things are looking pretty interesting for the coming year!
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I’ve thought seriously about getting an old Buell S3-T, but they’re getting pretty scarce, and they aren’t quite as cheap as they were a few years ago. The problems that plagued my old ’98 have been addressed, and the bike could be pretty reliable. If I could find one cheap enough, it would be a serious contender.
I’m thinking about getting a used Sportster; preferably one from between ’91 and ’03. The Sportster has an incredibly stout engine. It should be good for close to 100,000 miles without serious maintenance. If I get a 5 speed, it’ll have belt drive, which is low maintenance, and should it become necessary, easy to replace. Oil changes are a snap as is primary chain adjustment. And if something does go wrong that I can’t fix on the side of the road, there are Harley dealers everywhere. And there are even more decent Independent repair shops. Yeah, Sportsters vibrate; but I used to drill rock for a living and the vibes are nothing compared to what a Jackleg drill produces. I can handle the vibes.
I’ve owned a few Sportsters over the years, and I’ve put tens of thousands of miles on them. Right now, there’s a glut of used Sportsters on the market, and the prices are really affordable. I’ve found three this week alone on Craigslist for well under 3 grand (two are $2500 and the prettiest one is at two grand). One thing I have to consider is how much it will cost me to set up the bike. I don’t like forward controls, ape hangers or loud pipes. If I’m going to be riding this bike for days at a time, I want it to be comfortable. Mid controls and Highway pegs work for me, and I know what bars would be right, as well (they came stock on a ’79 FXEF, along with many other models). Plus, I want waterproof hard bags. That could be a bit tough to find, but I know they’re out there.
Couple of thoughts on the bike front.
IF you want easy support anywhere, then go with the Sportster.
I would actually say 04-06 (Carb, STOUT, comfortable, more options for accessories and whatnot, plus more likely to have something in stock if needed).
Prices of an 04-06 won't really be any more than a decent latemodel solidmount.
Setup is probably easy with take-offs. Even if it's got loud pipes, forwards, and apes (and a LOT of them don't) since so many people change that stuff out, you should be able to find cheap used midmounts, bars, and stock mufflers.
THAT SAID - IF YOU SERIOUSLY THINK YOU MIGHT WANT AN S3T, I've got one for you that I've been toying with selling because as AWESOME AS IT IS, I just don't think it's me. I think I'm more of a W650 or Bonnie, or even Scout kinda guy.
I've got a price in mind that I've floated and it was a magic number that I'd sell it for (it would convince me).
But I'd give you a significant WG discount.
It's VERY clean, very nice, and very well appointed (Buell Supertrap, Buell RACE ECM, Corbin, taller windscreen, Fiam, etc.)
Still, the Sporty might make more sense.
Then again, life isn't always about making sense.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-y1ku9IzZJQ4/VCtJs_tlWLI/AAAAAAAAA2s/WtpV9qAXZNY/w1305-h736-no/IMG_20140907_104231_464.jpg)
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If I were lucky enough to do something like that.. I would get a used but like new KLR..
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another good choice for this might be a vstrom 650 adventure
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another good choice for this might be a vstrom 650 adventure
;-T Any 650 V Strom would be perfect for this type of duty, and lots of folks have ridden them on long trips for that very reason. Economical, super reliable, roomy, and there are thousands of very nice used models out there for sale under $4K.
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I always "just go". Putting my money were my mouth is:
Some where in New England Fall of 2014
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/Canada%20Fall%202014/DSC_0111_zps1ae5757f.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/Canada%20Fall%202014/DSC_0111_zps1ae5757f.jpg.html)
Mexico
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/Jan09MC113_zps1cd37c9b.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/Jan09MC113_zps1cd37c9b.jpg.html)
Big Bend National Park
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/Jan09MC487_zps3adb89bd.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/Jan09MC487_zps3adb89bd.jpg.html)
Copper Canyon , Mexico
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/Jan09MC208_zpsfd1c7ebd.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/Jan09MC208_zpsfd1c7ebd.jpg.html)
Canada
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/DSC_0211_zps0a0249ec.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/DSC_0211_zps0a0249ec.jpg.html)
Alaska--that's RK with the fish pole
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/DSC_0336_zpsc9eb7600.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/DSC_0336_zpsc9eb7600.jpg.html)
Just go. ;D ;D :BEER:
Matt
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This is going to be about the experience, not about the bike. I imagine that when you're done, the specific brand and type of bike you went on will be 3% of the tales you'll tell and memories you'll have.
Be a real tramp. Either ride what you've got (your Norge is probably as or more reliable than anyone else's used bike, especially one of unknown provenance), or get some tramp bike and take off.
You're not meeting a schedule, you're not racing a clock, if it breaks you fix it or get help, you won't need a dealer.
I might see you on the road next summer. No telling what I might be riding ....
Lannis
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I know two guys who do this every year and they both use the Wee Strom. Before that they had used Connie's. If looks isn't among the top 5 reasons to buy a motorcycle then there are too many advantages to ignore with the DL650: bullet proof design, dealer network (even after Chapter 11), after market support, and parts availability.
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My two cents, get a smart phone, one of the larger ones. It can be a phone, GPS, computer and camera. Lord know what else. Point being, traveling light, combine as many functions into one device to save room - and only carry one charger.
I borrowed my wife's self inflating pad from REI for the last rally. Worked better, and quieter, than the air mattress. Kinda bulky though. Bought a Wolfman medium water proof duffle to put it and the tent in (along with a few minor items).
For the bike, whatever gets good mileage and fits you real well. Both can cost you too much if you choose wrong. :) While I think the V-strom is an excellent choice, the CB1100 would be nice too. 52+ mpg, smooth, flickable, fuel injection...... Not too hard to pick up if you fall, especially if you have the case savers on. Motor is not all that exciting, but it will get you to where you are going. Chain will want lube at the end of each day - and last, maybe to 20K miles.
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Possibilities
I’m seriously considering hitting the road for a while when the weather gets warmer. It’s been decades since I lived as a true Tramp and since I’m not nearly as young and flexible as I used to be, I have to think things out a bit first.
I have a good tent, and it should be adequate for at least this summer. I’ll probably want to get a better sleeping bag; and I think I should get an air mattress. I’ve been using a couple of Thermarest pads, but I think one air mattress would be a better idea than two pads on top of each other. Also, I think I should get a Jet Boil. I’ve really become addicted to my morning coffee.
Another thing I‘m pondering is what bike should I ride. I thought about getting a cheap used Guzzi. (a Tonti five speed in some flavor), but finding shops is kinda tough sometimes, and I still haven’t gotten over the time my 850 T ate it’s u-joint in Minneapolis. There was only one dealership in the state, and they didn’t have one. I had to leave my bike there for a month, then fly back and pick it up. Then I had to redo the job out in the parking lot, as the kid who worked on the bike didn’t know much about the bike, and didn’t do the job right.
My Norge has lost its sparkle for me. It’s got less than 65,000 miles, and it just doesn’t quite give me the feeling that it would be trouble free enough. Add to that the scarcity of Guzzi dealers, and using it looks even less attractive. I don’t know if I’ll sell it or store it.
I’ve thought seriously about getting an old Buell S3-T, but they’re getting pretty scarce, and they aren’t quite as cheap as they were a few years ago. The problems that plagued my old ’98 have been addressed, and the bike could be pretty reliable. If I could find one cheap enough, it would be a serious contender.
I’m thinking about getting a used Sportster; preferably one from between ’91 and ’03. The Sportster has an incredibly stout engine. It should be good for close to 100,000 miles without serious maintenance. If I get a 5 speed, it’ll have belt drive, which is low maintenance, and should it become necessary, easy to replace. Oil changes are a snap as is primary chain adjustment. And if something does go wrong that I can’t fix on the side of the road, there are Harley dealers everywhere. And there are even more decent Independent repair shops. Yeah, Sportsters vibrate; but I used to drill rock for a living and the vibes are nothing compared to what a Jackleg drill produces. I can handle the vibes.
I’ve owned a few Sportsters over the years, and I’ve put tens of thousands of miles on them. Right now, there’s a glut of used Sportsters on the market, and the prices are really affordable. I’ve found three this week alone on Craigslist for well under 3 grand (two are $2500 and the prettiest one is at two grand). One thing I have to consider is how much it will cost me to set up the bike. I don’t like forward controls, ape hangers or loud pipes. If I’m going to be riding this bike for days at a time, I want it to be comfortable. Mid controls and Highway pegs work for me, and I know what bars would be right, as well (they came stock on a ’79 FXEF, along with many other models). Plus, I want waterproof hard bags. That could be a bit tough to find, but I know they’re out there.
So far, it all looks pretty much doable. There’s only one small problem, and that’s medical. I have to take a blood thinner every day, and the level of it in my blood is critical. Too much, and I could bleed to death; too little and I’m likely to have a stroke. I’ve been getting my blood drawn every week or two to measure the levels and that involves going to the hospital and having them stick me with a needle. I know that there’s a device that measures the levels that works in a similar manner to what diabetics do to measure their sugar. I prick my finger and place a drop of blood on a little piece of film, then insert it into this device that reads the level of Warfarin in my blood. For some stupid reason, the insurance company won’t pay for this device even though it would save them thousands in short order. They will pay for the supplies for it, though. I guess I’ll just have to pony up the cash and buy the tester on my own (Any time you think dealing with a government bureaucracy is bad; just try dealing with an Insurance Company bureaucracy. They make the Feds look streamlined).
Back when I was a Tramp, one of my travelling companions was David Kaelin. He never paid rent anywhere. He had a job working on a Tow Boat pushing barges on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and he worked one month on, one month off. When he was at work, he lived on the boat. When he was off the boat, he would get on his bike and travel. I learned a lot from him about how to live on the road. I think it can be done for a reasonable price.
I have many friends and Family that I haven’t seen for a long time. I’d really enjoy travelling around, maybe catching a few Flat Track races, and visiting my two brothers and sister and their families, and seeing my friends across the country. I also want to see a few things that I just never got around to; like Monument Valley or Las Vegas or the North side of Lake Superior; or maybe even Alaska. I still have the itch to ride up to the Arctic Circle.
After doing this for the summer, I could jump on a plane and fly to Brisbane and spend some time with Ron and Melia and let the winter here pass by. For once, I could do North in the summer and South in the winter. For years, I would go to a warm climate in the summer, and then come back to New England for the winter months. I didn’t even have the sense that God gave a duck!
Oh; one other thing I’d have to get is a laptop computer so I could keep in touch with everybody and post on my favorite forums. I also have to learn how to take pictures with my cell phone, but that will be easy enough, or maybe just get an inexpensive Point and Shoot camera.
Things are looking pretty interesting for the coming year!
Man, this sounds like fun! Don't forget a Gopro :BEER: Maybe I'll try something like this in Italy. Thanks for the idea ;-T
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I'd go with the Norge, should be more reliable than a Buell 'tuber or a Sportster... Just keep up the maintenance and the Norge should do fine. As for electronics, there's a bunch of solutions- big screen cell phone for everything or cheap cell phone + tablet or laptop. WiFi is getting pretty common, and you can get a cell modem on a pay as you go plan pretty cheap for the places with no WiFi. For camping gear a decent tent, Thermarest, and sleeping bag rated for a bit colder than the coldest temp you'd ride in should suffice. Add a few days worth of clothes and munchies and maybe some compact cook gear and you're good to go!
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Man O Man Kev thats a nice looking Buell.
Galaxy S5 Active phone has a 18 mega pixel camera that takes really good photos and its waterproof and pretty much shockproof in the right case. Get a used IPad and you are set to jet.
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If I were lucky enough to do something like that.. I would get a used but like new KLR..
on second thought, you'd look pretty good touring on a Sportster.
http://www.rubberonroad.com/2010/02/turning-an-h-d-sportster-into-a-touring-bike/
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I'd go with the Norge, should be more reliable than a Buell 'tuber or a Sportster... Just keep up the maintenance and the Norge should do fine.
I think the potential reliability concern is IF something funky happens (like a dash failure, I know they are a lot less common on the Norge than the B11) then he's dead in the water without any hope of timely help.
And FWIW the late-model Sportys are darn near bulletproof. WAY MORE so than my Cali was, and arguably more so than my B11 (ok, not arguably, considering the trouble Jay has had with it, our Sporty has been WAY more reliable).
But the big advantage is local mechanics and parts pretty much EVERYWHERE for a Sporty (or sporty motor).
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If you're going to be a tramp you want a ratty old bike like a loop or an EV. You don't need to travel long distance in a day because you have no timeline. If you breakdown all you need to do is let us know and sit tight until you figure it out or one of your forum buddies picks you up.
I say go for it, it will add years to your life or at least life to your years ;-T
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Your biggest challenge seems to be the blood thinner. Have you checked into changing from Wafarin to one of the new ones that don't require frequent blood checks?
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Your biggest challenge seems to be the blood thinner. Have you checked into changing from Wafarin to one of the new ones that don't require frequent blood checks?
I have a mechanical aortic valve. I can't use the new drugs. If you listen to all the warnings in the ads, they specify to not take it if you have an artificial valve.
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The Buell would scare me more than the Norge but you know better.
;-T on a Tonti Cali or VStrom too.
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If you're going to be a tramp you want a ratty old bike like a loop or an EV. You don't need to travel long distance in a day because you have no timeline. If you breakdown all you need to do is let us know and sit tight until you figure it out or one of your forum buddies picks you up.
I say go for it, it will add years to your life or at least life to your years ;-T
And Kiwi Roy is the man who knows. He bought a partially running non-charging EV in Colorado last year and showed up at the Ouray NAR. He relaxed, worked on his bike till it would get him to the next stop, and headed there on his way to British Columbia, fixing it as it needed it.
Never saw a man as "Un-Worried" about whether his bike would get him there or not. Just do what you gotta do and go, that was the spirit .....
Lannis
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First of all, this sounds like great fun, and I would love to jump on the bike and just ride. Besides, I have 17 states left to ride through on the EV to collect 49, and I'm determined to do that. Time is really in shorter supply than money for something like that (even though the money part is in bad shape too ::)).
As for bikes, I thought this was a Guzzi forum. I would not hesitate to ride my '98 EV anywhere right now. It has 133,000 miles on it and runs just fine. I'm used to working on it, its quirks and potential failures, and I don't wish to relearn all this on a new ride. In fact, the only thing I would do embarking on a 10,000 mile ride is check the air in the tires, have enough dough on hand for a new set of skins along the way and just pack and go.
Oh yes, I might get a new set of shocks if funds permitted, but would go with the current ones if necessary. ;)
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Crusty,
You have a great opportunity and I hope you jump on it. I have wanted to do the same thing. I am new to Guzzi and am still learning but before I purchased my 89 Lemans I knew I wanted a carburated low tech bike and the older Guzzi fit that description. In my research it appeared that these older bikes are very reliable and less prone to some of the problems that you get with bikes with a lot of electronic controls. The Guzzi being shaft drive is a big plus with not having to deal with a chain or belt. Simplicity of maintenance is also a huge plus. You have a great resource in this forum and parts available between MG and Harpers.
That being said, there are HD dealers on every corner so when you need help it is close by.
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Roll baby roll... get out there and do it... Lord knows I am working 14 hr days right now.. and my 30's were gone in a blink...
Do it!
Rat out.. be free.. forget the GPS.. ride with the weather patterns.. roll into little crappy towns and create some questionable looks.. enjoy it bro.. time is short in our lives..
Buy some crappy thing that worries you.. you might have an adventure.. isn't that what you are looking for?
My best vacations on the bikes? Start date, end date.. a general direction.. and I am off.
I made some awesome friends on the road that way..still in touch with them.
One of them used a beer can to protect his oil filter from rocks from his front tire.. the other guy was on a ratted out Road King with faded cheap leathers (black faded light brown) no windshield for thousands of miles..always stopped at the tavern and always order two beers to kick it off for himself.
Go for it...
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Go!! Absolutely !
I left the US in 2012 with a backpack. Still in South America- Huanchaco Peru. Bought a cabin on a container ship and came down to Colombia and have been wandering around down here since. I got tired of sitting on the damn front porch every day (I am 63) and life getting to where it didn't seem to have any point. All I had to look forward to was radio nets occasionally (I am an amateur radio operator) and it was not enough. So go absolutely. Reason I found all of you is looking for a bike to continue my trip on, doing something like you plan to do Crusty but for me, because I am tired of riding the bus. I could not be more in favour of what you are planning to do. Absolutely.
What else you ought to consider is writing about your other travels as well.
Respectfully
Expat
If I was going to come back to the US and wander I am damned if I wouldn't be tempted to do it on something like this...
http://advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1028316
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The Guzzi being shaft drive is a big plus with not having to deal with a chain or belt.
Shaft drive is awesomely convenient on the road, and I'd argue better with dirt/gravel than a belt.
But a belt requires almost no other attention. They tend to set and not require any adjustment for often 10s of thousands of miles, and obviously they require no cleaning or lubing.
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Early to mid 90's BMW airhead GS.
Shaft drive, easy to do roadside repairs/maintenance, pretty good dealer support, good owners group support.
Mines been trouble free.
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Sounds like great fun and adventure though I'm a motel/resturaunt type of guy. As far as choice of bike..............m ost comfortable.
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Buddy of mine, years ago, planned us out a "Hobo" tour(Natchez Trace down into New Orleans) involving bathing in streams, sleeping just wherever etc...
We were hardly going spend a dime, which was about all I had.. I was ALL UP for it ;-T
At the last second, he invites his girlfriend.
EVERY night was spent in a nice hotel room w/ the bill split two ways and I got stuck on the fold-out cot each night! :wife:
Anyways, left them in Orleans and continued down to Mexico, turned around and came back home to Hotlanta. :bike
Bike was a `71 BMW R75/5. NO problems whatsoever.
For what it's worth, if I were to do it tomorrow, it would be on Kev's Buell !
I love that thing !!
Also, learn of your surroundings when tent camping, I was warned by the tourism center in Brownsville that several small gangs run through the parks at night.
I got a motel room... :BEER:
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Well, If you are not going to wander on a guzzi my recommendation would be to do it on a 650 v-strom. Very reliable, good handling do anything fun pack mule of a motorcycle. Travel at almost any speed you want. Good gas mileage- mine averages 53mpg on regular doing my normal run around riding. It gets higher gas mileage riding steady on the hiway at 55 -65. Its easy to find a used one already setup for traveling and at a really good price. I bought mine from a guy on the ADV rider site and after I paid him I rode it 400 miles at night in the rain to get it home. Two weeks later after a tire and oil change I took it on a 28 day 8100 mile ride about the USA. If you are going to wander about in the U.S. its a great bike choice.
Having said all that I know that whatever your bike choice you are going to have a great and memorable time. More than our bike and equipment it is our attitude that is the determining factor in our adventures. Have fun.
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Also, learn of your surroundings when tent camping, I was warned by the tourism center in Brownsville that several small gangs run through the parks at night.
I got a motel room... :BEER:
Looks like the tourism center would mention that to the local cops rather than bothering the tourists with it? "Small gangs running through the park at night" sounds pretty easy to find and stop to me!
Lannis
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Yes, she could not believe I was tent camping on a motorcycle around there..
Tried to pitch tent near road on South Padre Island, sand and wind got the better of me.
Well, all this was 30 15 years ago.
Probably gotten a little better since then. :BEER:
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Looks like the tourism center would mention that to the local cops rather than bothering the tourists with it? "Small gangs running through the park at night" sounds pretty easy to find and stop to me!
Lannis
I would think that's exactly the type of thing that a tourism center worker with a brother-in-law with a motel would tell tourists regardless of the truth.
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I have a 2005 Sportster 1200R. It has all the juice I need. It does vibrate more than a Guzzi, but not nearly like a 2003 or older Sporty, or a pre-2001 Bonneville. It has the advantages of a single carb, no balancing to worry about. Also, hydraulic lifters that need no adjustment. Belt drive, as described. Super parts and service availability. Mine eats fuel like crazy, (30 something MPG) at least as compared to the other similiar bikes I've owned (Guzzi, BMW, late model Bonneville. As a comparison, BMW K75 got 45 mpg and the Bonneville with sidecar gets better than the Sporty. Does the extra 300cc mean THAT much?). I put a 4.5 gallon tank on mine and now I can go a whopping 100 miles before hitting reserve. ;). Comfort is relative, but the Sporty is definitely a solo machine for me unless I find a ballerina who wants a ride; unlikely. :-\ People can and have toured on them. The center of gravity seems higher on my Sportster than a Tonti Guzzi. It also seems more short coupled. The numbers probably deny it, but a Tonti Guzzi feels more at home and balanced on a bigger variety of road conditions. I hope you have a wonderful journey. Please post a log here. ;-T
(http://i58.tinypic.com/15razye.jpg)
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I wouldn't worry too much about gps. On my hobo trip through the States last October, every time I was stopped by the side of the road with a map open, some very helpful person stopped and helped me find my way. Met some very nice people to boot! :BEER:
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I would think that's exactly the type of thing that a tourism center worker with a brother-in-law with a motel would tell tourists regardless of the truth.
Good point! My mind's not yet cynical and devious enough to have considered that ...
Uh, no offense to present company of course! ;) :D
Lannis
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I have ridden through more US States on a Guzzi, but I've ridden Harleys in more countries. I've put more miles total on Harleys than Guzzis, though I've put more miles on Guzzis than Sportsters. I have toured extensively on both marques and both make good machines. The things that I'm factoring into my decision are that in 1979, my 850 T3 ate its U-joint while travelling through Minneapolis, and I had to leave the bike at the only Guzzi shop in the state for a month while I rode a bus back to Louisville to go back to work on time. Also, my Norge electrics do funny things. I think it's all dash related, but things still get screwy for uncertain reasons. I have no assurance that the bike won't die without warning in the middle of Nevada on US 50; and that would really suck. Mechanically, the bike is as reliable as an anvil, but electrically it does weird things. Right now, sometimes when I hit the starter button, the bike will run only while the button is depressed for a few seconds. After a few seconds, it will run fine, but once I had to ride for a couple of miles with my thumb pushing the starter button before the engine wouldn't die. (Fortunately, the starter cuts out after the bike fires). Plus, my dash likes to blare SERVICE! even though there's nothing wrong, and it trips all the codes in the memory. It's running fine, but the idea of having to spend big money on a dash while on the road scares me, especially when dealers are so scarce and competent dealers are even scarcer.
I deliberately picked a '91 through 03 Sportster as these are the most reliable and easy to maintain. They do vibrate more than a rubber mount, but there are a few design features that I prefer over both earlier and later models. As far as fuel mileage, I've owned three others (an '86 1100, and a '79 and an '84 10000 that always gave me well over 40 MPG. Maybe when Harley built the rubber mount bikes, they did something that caused them to be gas hogs?
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Crusty: " As far as fuel mileage, I've owned three others (an '86 1100, and a '79 and an '84 10000 that always gave me well over 40 MPG. Maybe when Harley built the rubber mount bikes, they did something that caused them to be gas hogs?"
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It does weigh about 50 pounds more than a pre 2004 Sporty. Plus my lard arse. :D I can't nail down an answer to this. Some guys report far better mileage with the same type bike. Others say mine is typical. Mine starts and runs reliably, with the occasional carb fart. Maybe all I need is a J.B. Ratguzzi inspired Frankentank. 7 gallons? :D
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I've owned both solidmount EVO Sportsters and rubbermount EVO Sportsters.
I don't believe the solidmounts are in ANY way more reliable.
Shorty, I tend to get poor mileage on a lot of my bikes compared to a lot of other owners of the same models.
As low as 47 sometimes on my V7 where other have gotten as much as 57.
As low as high 30's on my Jackal or low 40's on my B11 where others got 40 and 50 respectively.
And on my rubbermount Sportster I usually get only 40 wire others have gotten 45+. But I almost NEVER get only 30.
Someone futz'd with your jetting???
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I've owned both solidmount EVO Sportsters and rubbermount EVO Sportsters.
I don't believe the solidmounts are in ANY way more reliable.
Shorty, I tend to get poor mileage on a lot of my bikes compared to a lot of other owners of the same models.
As low as 47 sometimes on my V7 where other have gotten as much as 57.
As low as high 30's on my Jackal or low 40's on my B11 where others got 40 and 50 respectively.
And on my rubbermount Sportster I usually get only 40 wire others have gotten 45+. But I almost NEVER get only 30.
Someone futz'd with your jetting???
check PM Kev
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For a long solo trip to parts unknown, I'd want a bike I didn't have to worry about, unless being broke down in the middle of nowhere is part of your planned adventure. Seems you don't trust your Norge, so you must be pondering reliability. If you want trusted reliability and dealer service not far away and good price point , buy used Japanese.
The DL650 has been mentioned, the DL1000 is another great choice. But a better bargain with super road performance would be a 1200 Bandit. You can add side bags trunk etc. But I had an extended camping trip on mine with a large duffle bag an the rear seat and a tank bag.
The damn bike is bullet proof, comfortable, extremely fast. Any used Jap bike in that category would work for me to roam around the continent. My FJR is my long distance ride of choice. It's reliable, comfortable, 45 MPG, but it's heavy and maybe more expensive than other possibilities. If you trusted the Norge, that would almost be its equal. In any case enjoy the adventure. Wish I could be there with you.
Bill
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love my Bandit. stock seat is a killer. get a later one or a 1250 unless you can live 33 mpg.
very cheap used motorcycle.
(http://g1.img-dpreview.com/34AD824BD7AD40C8865DD1ACD0259763.jpg)
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I don't understand?
If you guys are so convinced you Guzzis are going to break down why do you even own one?
Shute the electrics may be a bit flakey but all you need is to figure out how to bypass it.
Sent from my shoe phone!
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I don't understand?
If you guys are so convinced you Guzzis are going to break down why do you even own one?
Shute the electrics may be a bit flakey but all you need is to figure out how to bypass it.
Sent from my shoe phone!
I think his concern is no one knows how to bypass a failed dash on a CARC.
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A Guzzi forum-and did anyone say Jackal?
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first go to REI and get a cot. slightly bigger to stow but way more comfortable than a air mattress. when do you hit 65. medi-care with an AARP United health care supplement cures medical costs. I haven't paid a dime for any of the 6 procedures I have had this year and the prescription costs are very low.
98-2002 EV or Jackal is a good choice. cheap, reliable and members everywhere willing to help. DL 650 was in my garage for 2 years until I totaled it. great second choice as is a KLR 650. last 2 run on cheap gas and get great MPG. and have big gas tanks.
for the last 3 years I have left with only a general direction in mind and traveled for a month give or take a few days. usually 10,000 miles. I plan nothing and expect nothing so I'm never disappointed, but I enjoy it all. When I see an interesting road I take it. when I see a lake or a stream i pull out a collapsible rod and a cigar and fish for a while. I just did a 10 K on a wing and only about 500 miles was on the interstate. I rough it in flea bag motels. I value the private shower / toilet and a dry roof over my head.
I have been hauling small lap top but if you can tolerate one of the new gizmo phones (I can't, flip for me) it would be better. lap tops don't like the heat of a saddle bag.
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I don't understand?
If you guys are so convinced you Guzzis are going to break down why do you even own one?
Shute the electrics may be a bit flakey but all you need is to figure out how to bypass it.
Sent from my shoe phone!
Why do I own one? because when I owned my V7 Sport, I never had to worry about the bike. I want a bike that's as trouble free as it was. I rode across Nevada in August, 1978 and the bike never missed a beat, even though the temps were really close to 120F. I've figured out how to bypass the SERVICE! warning, but not the right meds to straighten out the schitzophrenic dash. My Norge was pretty much trouble free until the dash got weird. And lastly, I still own it because I used it for collateral on a loan when I was trying to save my house, and the bank holds the title. I told the Loan Officer that if they gave me a loan, I would give my Word of Honor that I'd pay it back. Also, the Norge is my only motorized transportation at the present time.
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A Guzzi forum-and did anyone say Jackal?
:+1
Dusty
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love my Bandit. stock seat is a killer. get a later one or a 1250 unless you can live 33 mpg.
very cheap used motorcycle.
(http://g1.img-dpreview.com/34AD824BD7AD40C8865DD1ACD0259763.jpg)
LowRyter...Your B12 picture makes me miss mine so! What a machine and could easily be modded into a super sports tourer. Mine with just a few simple mods turned over 125 MPH in the quarter mile. For me even stock it was very comfortable.
Bill
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I think his concern is no one knows how to bypass a failed dash on a CARC.
Fair enough, I have no experience with modern Guzzis.
Something simple like a carbed California II, or an old loop then.
I think an EV or Jackal would be my choice although the tanks are too small, I barely 150 miles on the EV
Carry a couple of spare wheel bearings, or replace them before setting out, make sure the uni joint is in good condition.
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The more I see of the computerized stuff, the more I like my non-computer bike :)
I have had a couple issues when riding distances. Throttle cables and that weird thing with the front spring (it collapsed on me after hitting a big bump). But, a couple hours and I got it back on the road (pull the fork tube, disassemble, unjam the spring seat, reassemble). I would (and do) ride my 30 yr old T5 anywhere, including graded dirt roads.
So, I'd say, get a 80/90's era goose of choice and go. Would be fairly cheap too :)
PS if you like the fairing option, then look for an SPIII or Cali III. My T5 has an SPIII fairing and I love it.
PPS I would not rule out electronic fuel injection either. It's just those pesky dash panels that annoy me.
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The more I see of the computerized stuff, the more I like my non-computer bike :)
I have had a couple issues when riding distances. Throttle cables and that weird thing with the front spring (it collapsed on me after hitting a big bump). But, a couple hours and I got it back on the road (pull the fork tube, disassemble, unjam the spring seat, reassemble). I would (and do) ride my 30 yr old T5 anywhere, including graded dirt roads.
So, I'd say, get a 80/90's era goose of choice and go. Would be fairly cheap too :)
PS if you like the fairing option, then look for an SPIII or Cali III. My T5 has an SPIII fairing and I love it.
PPS I would not rule out electronic fuel injection either. It's just those pesky dash panels that annoy me.
That's just it (the PPS). It's not the computers per se. We've had computers in every car on the road for decades now. They are, for the most part, quite reliable. Probably more reliable than any electronic ignition module made decades before that.
The issue in this particular case was some goofy decision to make the ECM reliant upon a much less trouble-free dash for certain CARC models to work. The flaky dashes have now given those otherwise bulletproof reliable bikes a black eye.
There ought to be a way to just shut off the anti-theft logic on the older ones so owners won't have to worry about it anymore. It's not like anyone is stealing a 8 year old Breva 1100 or Norge anyway.
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Kev; you're doing a better job of describing my logic than I can. Thanks.
I have thought about an older Tonti. If I could find one cheap enough, I might go for one. I focused on Sportsters mainly because there are so many of them out there that there are bargains to be had. I also am having a hard getting past the time my 850 died in Minneapolis and I had to leave it there for a month. I know that parts availability has improved a lot, and that, if necessary, parts can be Overnighted, but the distrust is still there. It can be overcome, though.
I also have a similar distrust for Buells. While I know that all the problems I had with my S3 have been addressed, I still have that little bit of uncertainty.
The reasons I focused in Sportsters between '91 and '03 are that in 91, Harley started putting a 5 speed transmission in them, and the MoCo also moved the alternator to the crankshaft from the back of the clutch basket. Which means that if a rotor goes south, it won't cost as much of a fortune to replace. Also, they started putting belt on them, which means less maintenance. The rubber mount Sportsters would probably be fine, but they're too new and thus too expensive. There are also a couple of things that I don't care for in the design of the rubber mounts, but price is the biggest thing.
The best deal that I've seen, so far is this Tonti; and if I can come up with the cash, I'll probably spring for it.
http://hartford.craigslist.org/mcy/4752105620.html
Then all I'd have to do is sort out the wiring issues, get some hard bags and put tires on it.
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Guess we're thinking similarly.
Sporty, I hear you on the prices, though the rubbermounts (especially the carb ones) are now getting old enough that they're in the same ballpark. Like airheads, the price levels out and sorta sits there. You can spend as much on an older solidmount as you would an 04-06 rubbermount these days.
Not pushing, just explaining.
As for the Buell thing, you know them better than I.
But I'm not kidding on the make you a deal thing... Though maybe you wouldn't want to use this one for that.
I'm looking to hand it off to a new "steward" to look after it cause it's such a clean example.
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After sitting in Ely Nevada and wanting to get to Tonopah Nevada but that being at the ragged edge of what the Quota could do I had to take the long way around, but with better spaced gas stops.
So I'm a wee bit more keen on good mileage and proper sized gas tanks; no matter what you ride. 'Cause some places in the west are might wide between gas stations. Wider still for food and lodging. Or use gas-paks.
Too many good choices for you; but in your case I think you'd enjoy the trip more with a machine you knew rather than worry about a mount with evils you didn't know. And what fits you, again, our western states can be a bit too big when it comes to lousy ergo's. :P
Or arrange to ride different bikes across the country. It will mean a bit more planning; but you could start off on the Beull, swap for a Bandit 1200, then a HD, then a Jackel etc. Then you can claim you once took a vacation so long you went through eight bikes! ;D
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If on a tight budget I'd also pay attention to the ergos of whatever bikes you look at, seat especially. Some HD's have some pretty awful seats fitted to them. Same with bars.
Having said that, it can be fairly simple (and cheap) to 'fix' a bad seat.
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The best deal that I've seen, so far is this Tonti; and if I can come up with the cash, I'll probably spring for it.
http://hartford.craigslist.org/mcy/4752105620.html
Then all I'd have to do is sort out the wiring issues, get some hard bags and put tires on it.
That's the ticket, comfy seat, take off the pillion and replace it with a good size rack then all you need is a top box.
I did something similar with my EV took the hard bags off and replaced the rear seat with a flat deck cobbled up from 1/8 aluminum to act as a table when camping rough. Everything I "really" need will fit in the top box and I'm not weighed down by two enormous hard bags full of crap I never use, The tent straps on top of the top box.
I met up with my buddy in Oregan, weighed down with everything but the kitchen sink so I bought a $10 duffle bag and strapped it on the back to take some of his surplus crap.
Small white gas stove that will run on gas at a pinch, 12Volt USB charger, spare wheel bearing
A Spot www.findmespot.com (I may have the url wrong or is it a China thing) to let family and friends (us) track your progress or call for help. I like a GPS (cheap old TomTom in a plastic bag) to get me through a strange city, also great in the dark or fog to give a heads up on corners.
PS, you can see we want you to live our dream.
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If on a tight budget I'd also pay attention to the ergos of whatever bikes you look at, seat especially. Some HD's have some pretty awful seats fitted to them.
THAT'S the understatement of the year... and I'm under the impression it's MOST of them... almost all... :BEER:
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love my Bandit. stock seat is a killer. get a later one or a 1250 unless you can live 33 mpg.
very cheap used motorcycle.
(http://g1.img-dpreview.com/34AD824BD7AD40C8865DD1ACD0259763.jpg)
If I was going to go to the Dark Side and get a Japanese 4, it would be one of those .... Always have liked 'em, don't know why .....
Lannis
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Just a quick update; everything seems to be falling into place for this trip to happen.
I have the bike set up the way I want, with a sissy bar, luggage rack and saddlebag support brackets. The bike already has a windshield, touring seat and highway pegs. I got a set of good sized saddlebags and I did a "dry run"; packing the bags with a week's worth of clean clothes and I think I'll have no problems with enough room for what I'll be carrying. I bought a little Isobutane stove and a stainless pot to boil water in. The pot comes with 2 nesting cups that store inside it, and the stove fits inside as well, I did a dry run on the stove, and it works pretty nicely; so I don't have to worry about having a leisurely cup of coffee in the morning. I slept on the sleeping pad the other night (on the bedroom floor), and I think it will work fine. My only hiccup right now is my sleeping bag. The zipper loves to snag, and the last thing I want to deal with at 2:00 AM when I have to go to the can is a stuck zipper. I'm thinking of getting an Army MSS (Modular Sleep System) bag. My reasoning is that the zippers are designed for smooth, quick opening. (In combat conditions, a GI has to get up in a hurry). There are cheaper sleeping bags that would be warm enough, but I don't know if the zippers would snag, like on my present bag.
I'm also enlisting the help of my Primary Care Physician to hopefully coerce the Insurance Company into letting me get a self tester to take my INR readings. I really don't want to have to stop at a hospital once a week and get my blood drawn. I get my prescriptions from Target Pharmacy, so I should be able to get them refilled without any trouble.
I've got my tickets ordered for three of the Miles (Indy and the two Springfields) and I have front row seats at the finish line for all three. Tickets for DuQuoin aren't available yet, but it's the same promoter for DuQuoin and Indy and the nice lady I spoke to when I ordered my ticket for Indy said that the tickets should be available this week or next.
As the kick off time gets closer, I'm feeling more and more anticipation. I've been spending hours looking at the Campground Locator site: http://www.uscampgrounds.info/ (http://www.uscampgrounds.info/).
I have a tentative route planned for the first leg of my journey, and there's no Interstate Highway on it. This is going to be an Adventure!
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Always a room out here for you Crusty. :bike
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I guess I missed something. Did you buy that Guuzi or did you go for an HD?
Sleeping bag zippers. Go to REI and try them before you buy. I have a North Face and if I don't get it right it will stick too. Funny that the one bag I had that NEVER stuck was a cheapo from Costco...
I'll let someone else comment on the Army surplus stuff since I have not used the newer system. The old mummy bags would get a zipper stuck every now and then. Not fun.
FWIW, I have found that some bags like to be opened from the outside and some from the inside. Can be a bit of a PITA.
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Thread went from December 9 to March 8. From what you describe it sounds like you went with the Sporty.
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DR650 with a set of Pelicans and a big fuel cell. 250 mile fuel range, ability to explore non paved surface, reliable, parts are cheap and everywhere.
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Matthew; Thanks for the invite. I think I'll take you up on it. (to be honest, I was planning to stop by and visit, anyhow. ;) )
Charlie b and Samfrank, I had posted other threads about what bike I decided on and why; I guess you guys missed them.
I finally wound up with a 2005 XL1200 R Roadster. It has better suspension than most Sportsters, and has a better (double disc) front brake. It also has a rubber mounted engine. I got it for a very decent price, so that's what I settled on.
Back in the '70s, I had an Army surplus Mountain sleeping bag. Although it loved to molt feathers, it was warm and it never fouled its zipper. This week, I'm going to go to a Surplus store and check out the new MSS bags. I want to "Try Before I Buy".
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Good choice and good idea on the sleeping bag.
And if you get near this area give a shout too.
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Good choice and good idea on the sleeping bag.
And if you get near this area give a shout too.
The absolute best Mexican food I've ever eaten was in Albuquerque in 1969. The restaurant that I used to frequent (Paco's) went out of business, but I still want to go back there for a truly magnificent meal. Cheese enchiladas, burritos, Chiles Rellenos, and especially, Sopapillas. I'll send you a PM if it looks like I'm going to get close to you. And if you know of a good Mexican restaurant, all the better!
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The ones I like are Garcia's (inexpensive but good food), Cervantes, Sadies, El Pinto and El Patron (expensive but has some things like casserole style enchiladas that you don't find everywhere).
There are quite a few others, actually several hundred others :)
Then there are places like the Owl Cafe and Hurricanes where you can get diner type food with NM chiles. Heck, I don't think there's a restaurant in town that does not have green chile to put on anything you order.
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PM sent.
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I went by Ernie's yesterday and he took a couple of pictures of my new Sportster. It's a lot different from the Guzzi, but it's fun to ride!
(http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y468/Crusty1950/05%20Sportster%201_zpsqtows4yd.jpg) (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/Crusty1950/media/05%20Sportster%201_zpsqtows4yd.jpg.html)
(http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y468/Crusty1950/05%20Sportster%202_zpsp896rkoi.jpg) (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/Crusty1950/media/05%20Sportster%202_zpsp896rkoi.jpg.html)
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That's a nice looking bike right there.
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Windshield, touring seat, luggage rack, saddlebag supports... Already set up pretty darn well for your trip.
Have you figured out bag solutions? You might consider something that goes over the sissybar too.
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Great plans, hope it works out for you.
Regarding the blood thinner, you could switch from the Warfarin type to a different type of pills like Xarelto, Pradaxa and another one I don't remember.
Take 2 pills ( 1 if it is xerelto) a day and that's it. No more testing. Done. You're good.
It really made my life a lot simpler. Only drawback is the price is a lot higher.
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That's a nice looking bike right there.
Nice looking seat for sure. A bit different from the "Cobra" seats that people like so much on Sportsters that were ridden bar-to-bar ... !
Lannis
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Great plans, hope it works out for you.
Regarding the blood thinner, you could switch from the Warfarin type to a different type of pills like Xarelto, Pradaxa and another one I don't remember.
Take 2 pills ( 1 if it is xerelto) a day and that's it. No more testing. Done. You're good.
It really made my life a lot simpler. Only drawback is the price is a lot higher.
I can't take them. I have an artificial heart valve (a 21 mm Stainless and Carbon Aortic Valve). My doctor is working with me to get the Insurance Company to cough up a portable tester. After hearing some of the horror stories about some of the other blood thinners, I have no problem taking Warfarin and getting my finger pricked once a week. It's a lot better than hemorrhaging internally.
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How To Become a Tramp; Chapter 92
Everything's coming along reasonably well. I haven't done a Dry Run yet; there's still too much melting snow along with road salt all over the streets here. Every time I take my bike out, I wind up at the "Magic Wand" Car Wash. My poor bike has almost as much time in the wash bay as it has on the road. Yesterday, I went and picked up a set of stock mufflers for the bike. I'll be putting them on this week. I prefer quiet bikes and the mufflers that were on my Sportster were too loud for my tastes. I was lucky enough to find a pair of almost totally unused stock mufflers for a give away price. That will pretty much be it for setting up the bike.
The Saturday after Easter, I'm meeting with some friends for lunch at the Dinosaur BBQ in Stamford, CT (about 150 miles away). I'll be riding about 50/50 Interstate and secondary roads. I figure that will be the best chance on seeing how the bike rides with everything loaded. As far as what I load, I *Think* I've pretty much got it figured out; but I'm sure there are things I'll wish I had brought and things I'll wish I'd left behind. That's always true. As the time gets closer to Departure, I'm getting more and more enthused; and of course, more worried. I'm pretty much committed. The biggest area for concern is my Health Insurance Plan. They haven't decided whether to give me a INR Self Tester. Between my Doctor's Office and me, we've mounted a serious offensive that I hope will result in my getting one. Otherwise, I'll be stopping at local hospitals all over the country to get my blood drawn. I've stated repeatedly that Insurance Company bureaucracies make Federal Government bureaucracies look streamlined. This experience is just more proof of the truth of that statement.
I have bought tickets to the May and September Springfield Miles and the Indianapolis Mile. I haven't got a ticket for the DuQuoin Mile, as they're not available yet, but I will. I've talked with my family members and a few old friends who I'll be visiting along the way, and they're all excited for me. It'll be really nice to see them all again. I'm also looking forward to seeing sights and going places that I've always wanted to go and see. (I'm still kicking around riding up to the Arctic Circle)
Hopefully, it'll all kick off on schedule!
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Looking forward to the trip reports! ;-T
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I think his concern is no one knows how to bypass a failed dash on a CARC.
(yes, I know that I'm late to this thread).
The failed dash never rendered my B11 unridable. Only the digital display failed. The speedo, tach, fuel gauge, signals, etc all kept working.
I was just highly annoyed to the lack of a working odometer readout. And even though, it would work briefly on initial key-on, so, I could still keep track of mileage for maintenance.
Of course, this is moot, since you just sold the Norge.
In any case, enjoy your trip. I'll be watching for your trip report.
If your travels find you in South Central PA, look me up. There are a few other WG members in the area too.
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I went by Ernie's yesterday and he took a couple of pictures of my new Sportster. It's a lot different from the Guzzi, but it's fun to ride!
(http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y468/Crusty1950/05%20Sportster%201_zpsqtows4yd.jpg) (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/Crusty1950/media/05%20Sportster%201_zpsqtows4yd.jpg.html)
(http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y468/Crusty1950/05%20Sportster%202_zpsp896rkoi.jpg) (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/Crusty1950/media/05%20Sportster%202_zpsp896rkoi.jpg.html)
That's purdy. ;)
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Crusty if you head up to Alaska I live 10 minutes south of Whitehorse Yukon on the Alaska Highway. You are welcome to pitch a tent, and I have an awesome shop if you want to service your machine.
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Couple of thoughts on the bike front.
IF you want easy support anywhere, then go with the Sportster.
I would actually say 04-06 (Carb, STOUT, comfortable, more options for accessories and whatnot, plus more likely to have something in stock if needed).
Prices of an 04-06 won't really be any more than a decent latemodel solidmount.
Setup is probably easy with take-offs. Even if it's got loud pipes, forwards, and apes (and a LOT of them don't) since so many people change that stuff out, you should be able to find cheap used midmounts, bars, and stock mufflers.
THAT SAID - IF YOU SERIOUSLY THINK YOU MIGHT WANT AN S3T, I've got one for you that I've been toying with selling because as AWESOME AS IT IS, I just don't think it's me. I think I'm more of a W650 or Bonnie, or even Scout kinda guy.
I've got a price in mind that I've floated and it was a magic number that I'd sell it for (it would convince me).
But I'd give you a significant WG discount.
It's VERY clean, very nice, and very well appointed (Buell Supertrap, Buell RACE ECM, Corbin, taller windscreen, Fiam, etc.)
Still, the Sporty might make more sense.
Then again, life isn't always about making sense.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-y1ku9IzZJQ4/VCtJs_tlWLI/AAAAAAAAA2s/WtpV9qAXZNY/w1305-h736-no/IMG_20140907_104231_464.jpg)
What a good looking ride. I never looked at Buell but that is something that would make me ride a ...Harleysortathing
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What a good looking ride. I never looked at Buell but that is something that would make me ride a ...Harleysortathing
I rode it, and enjoyed it. The ergos are very close to your Norge.
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I rode it, and enjoyed it. The ergos are very close to your Norge.
It was basically a Harley Griso. 8)
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Crusty, when it comes to things you should have packed but didn't, there are shops. When it comes to things that you did pack but shouldn't have, post them home.
Don't forget a book to read in your tent, and a light to read by.
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Hey Crusty, just a thought about meds. I found that the CVS in NY state I used off and on the past two years had difficulty filling my prescriptions from my Mass Drs. previously written to CVS here in central Mass. Usually required the NY CVS to phone the physician and getting new prescription -no big deal but usually cost a day or two before everything was good....so don't wait till the last day to try and fill a script out of state-give it a little lead time. ;D Hope the journey goes well.
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Looks like the Springfield Mile will feature Troy Bayliss...
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Looks like the Springfield Mile will feature Troy Bayliss...
I wonder if he'll make it into the Main?
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Hey Crusty, just a thought about meds. I found that the CVS in NY state I used off and on the past two years had difficulty filling my prescriptions from my Mass Drs. previously written to CVS here in central Mass. Usually required the NY CVS to phone the physician and getting new prescription -no big deal but usually cost a day or two before everything was good....so don't wait till the last day to try and fill a script out of state-give it a little lead time. ;D Hope the journey goes well.
I've been getting my scripts filled at Target Pharmacy. Tomorrow, when I go over there, I 'll ask if I can get refills at other stores around the country, and if it will take a couple of days or if I can just get a refill.
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I did not read thru all the suggestions, but make sure you check in with someone daily. I have read stories of motorcycle riders laying in a ditch for days. Had one young lady tell me a story about being pinned under her car for a night when she was ran off the road. A truck driver noticed the car the next morning. Her story was unbelievable. Buy a cheap prepaid phone that covers areas that your current cellular plan may not. You can get an annual prepaid plan.
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Did you ever get the feeling that you were meant to do something? When Terri (my ex) and I were trying to buy our house in Leominster, it seemed that there were numerous reasons why it wasn’t going to happen. First, someone put an offer in a couple of hours before us. Then, the Mortgage guy told us he didn’t think that the bank was going to approve the loan. Every time something was about to stop the purchase, a solution appeared out of nowhere. There were quite a few reasons why we shouldn’t have gotten the house, but in the end, it was ours.
That’s the way it feels regarding this trip. A few months ago, it was a dream with a lot of things that could prevent it from happening. One by one, however, the difficulties have been dealt with. I have a bike that I bought specifically for this trip, I’ve got a self – testing meter to keep track of my anti-coagulant levels, I sold my Guzzi and I just signed a six month lease on cheap storage. Everything is just falling into place. It’s almost scary how it’s happening.
Don’t get me wrong; it hasn’t been too easy. I’ve been running around like a chicken with its legs cut off. There’s a lot to do, and I’m the one who has to do it all; but it’s the things that are beyond my control that have come to me.
Take the meter; first, I was told by a manufacturer that the Insurance company would not cover one. If I purchased one out of my own pocket, they would pay for the supplies, but not the meter itself. Then, I was told by the Ins. Co. that they would rent a meter for me to use on my trip, but I would have to give it back in a couple of months. Finally, I got a call that a meter of my own (not a rental) was being shipped from a supplier and that the Insurance Company would pay for supplies. The story is more involved than that description, but that’s the general gist of it.
Or the garage; I had been looking for cheap storage, and was thinking about using a place here in town that has partitioned areas in an old mill building, when I just happened to see an ad on Craigslist for a 1 bay garage a couple of blocks from here for about half the price of a similar sized storage area. I decided I’d call about it the next morning, but the ad disappeared. I figured it was gone, and that I’d missed out on it. Then the ad reappeared a couple of weeks later and I wound up getting it. It’s actually bigger than I need, but the price is still a lot less than I was expecting to pay.
All my Snippets lately have been focusing on my upcoming trip. I guess that’s understandable considering it’s the most important thing that’s dominating my thoughts. Once the trip starts, I’ll be writing about my experiences as they happen. I’m starting to shape my plans. I think my first “destination” will be to North Carolina. I haven’t been to my parent’s grave in way too long and I want to say a few things to them. Mainly, how much I miss them, but with a few personal items as well. And I promised my sister Grace that if I came within 200 miles of Fayetteville, I’d make it a point to stop and visit. From there, I’ll probably head towards Cincinnati and visit my brother David. Then on from there. The only definite dates and places are the four races that I’m planning see and my two Doctors’ appointments on July 28 back here in Taxachusetts.
Well; I guess I ought to clean out a couple of the plastic storage bins that Ernie gave me and think about what I’m going to pack in them.
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;-T
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Just a quick update.
I'm going to be heading out next week. I'm busier than a one armed paper hanger trying to get everything done before I hit the road. Address changes, packing up and putting the things I want to keep in storage, getting junk furniture to the dump, and so on.
I had a disastrous weekend revolving around putting new tires on the bike. I bought a set of Dunlop American Elite tires and I could not get the rear mounted on my wheel. After wrestling with it for three hours, I surrendered and took it over to my friend's shop. Even with the tire machine, it took both of us to get the tire on the rim. I've been mounting my own motorcycle tires since 1972, and this is the first tire I could not mount on my own. Being a bit unfamiliar with the new bike, it also took me a while to get the wheel back on the bike. From start to finish, it took me almost 12 hours to change the rear tire on Saturday (by contrast, it usually took me about an hour to change the rear tire on the Norge). Then, to add insult to injury; Sunday morning, when I went to take the bike out, the front tire had gone flat. So I pulled the wheel and took it over to the shop yesterday morning and got the front tire changed.
Other than that, I loaded the bike with full saddlebags and my tent, sleeping bag, etc.,and went on a shake down ride a couple of weeks ago. I found a couple of minor issues that I have since addressed, but I think it will all be good. My tentative plan is to head to North Carolina and visit my parents' graves and spend a couple of days with my sister and brother-in-law, then head towards Cincinnati to see my younger brother then head for Springfield, IL to see the Mile on the 24th. I still have to get a new flip phone (I think I'm going to go with Metro PCS - they have the best rates) and I have to get a cheap Point & Shoot camera. Things are hectic, but the anticipation is building.
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I'm sitting in a MacDonald's just north of Richmond, Virginia drinking my morning coffee. I'll be in Fayetteville this afternoon if I take my time. I didn't take any of the routes I was thinking of, though I did cover a lot of back roads in Massachusetts and New York. I slept in a truck rest area 'cause I couldn't find a campground and I slept well. The Tramp in me is back!
I'm lovin' it!
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I'm sitting in a MacDonald's just north of Richmond, Virginia drinking my morning coffee. I'll be in Fayetteville this afternoon if I take my time. I didn't take any of the routes I was thinking of, though I did cover a lot of back roads in Massachusetts and New York. I slept in a truck rest area 'cause I couldn't find a campground and I slept well. The Tramp in me is back!
I'm lovin' it!
Stay safe - but have adventures!
;-T
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... The Tramp in me is back!
I'm lovin' it!
(http://i1282.photobucket.com/albums/a538/broughsuperior/tramp_zpsflejovze.jpg) (http://s1282.photobucket.com/user/broughsuperior/media/tramp_zpsflejovze.jpg.html) Go, Mr.Crusty, go!!
Keep us informed, son!!!
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Stay safe - but have adventures!
;-T
Reminds me of the Gumball Rally scene where the woman in bed with Franco says
"Be Careful". And Franco says
"I cannot do the job I must, AND-a be careful ..."
"Then be lucky!"
"Ahh, that's-a better!"
So be lucky!
Lannis
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Finding a place to camp is not a small job even with a GPS and KOAs loaded for the states and Canada. Trying to get away from the hustle and bustle is not easy now adays. I found that out on my trip to Alaska and back.
It is amazing tho after a week or two, how you don't seem to need as much stuff as you thought before you left. A rundown old RV, camping spot in the middle of nowhere when it is 38 degrees and raining turns out to be pretty dang good stop! Even if you have to clean up your room and make your bed, throw out wet towels! I slept very good. Left the next morning in the rain, couple drinking coffee under the overhang covering the porch where I was readying my bike to leave, say, do you really have to leave in this? I say, no I don't, but I am. We all laughed before I cranked and left.
Good luck on your trip, and keep us posted of some of your travels! I know how hard it is to be able to post on a site while traveling, no wifi, hungry, wet tired. We understand!
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Ever hear of the Back of the Dragon? It's Virginia Route 16; a Scenic Byway. I discovered it by accident yesterday.
I left Steve and Grace's house yesterday morning to head toward Cincinnati. Of course, I planned to use only backroads, and I was enjoying the temps in the 80s and the smooth roads as I worked my way north and west. I had been following US route 52 when it merged with I-81 South. Somehow, I missed the exit where 52 broke off and continued North and west. A few miles later, I stopped in a rest area and looked at a large map of Virginia and discovered my mistake. I saw that if I continued a couple of miles further, I could take route 16 to Tazewell then take 460 to 52 and continue on my way. As I first turned on to 16, there was a sign saying Welcome to the Back of the Dragon. If you like twisty roads and magnificent scenic vistas, I strongly recommend riding it. The Tail of the Dragon is well known but I only saw three other motorcycles on 16, and maybe half a dozen cars in an hour and a half and it has close to 17 brazillion turns. I discovered it by accident, but it was true Serendipity.
My battery is getting pretty low, so I'll continue this later.