Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Asylum on March 03, 2015, 05:31:56 PM
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I was curious as to what riders pack on let say a weekend trip. Just hotels for the night.
I know it sounds noob of me ::), but I've never taken bike trips. This summer I plan on doing a few.
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You have summer way up there?
Kidding!
JB
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You have summer way up there?
Kidding!
JB
Ya, like 3 days. So I gotta plan well ahead.
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.45
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.45
Well of course guns and ammo, but I mean besides that.
And before anyone goes there, I'm not talkin penis size.
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Depends on your saddle bags etc.
Spend a day or two listing what you use around the house, clothes, toiletries, meds, must have electronics etc. Then cut that by at least a third and you'll still be overpacked. Add your helmet, jacket, riding pants very basic tools and raingear. Throw it all on the bed in the guest room . See if it fits in your saddle bags. Then reduce by another third. Add road maps, dealership lists and mgnoc members list, credit card and cash insurance papers. You're set. For a long weekend, week or month. Just lander clothes and replace toiletries.
Unless your going to Kathmandu anything you may have forgotten will be readily available.
Dave
Galveston
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Tent
Sleeping bag
Air matress
White gas camp stove
ex military mess kit
Flashlight
Coffee - those Starbucks one cup minis
Spare pair of pants if going over a week
1 shirt for every 2 days
Socks & underwear
A hoodie is good for sleeping if it's cold and around the fire
Way more tools than I ever need
I cut myself down from 2 sidebags and a top box to just the top box otherwise you take too much crap
Beer of course, pick that up at the end of the day
Food
A steak is nice with a spud to throw in the embers, you feast like a King
Bagals & cream cheese for breakfast with coffee
Stop somewhere for lunch or a late breakfast.
Large bottle of water, carry that outside the top box so it's handy
I made a little rack for the EV that can do backup as a table if camping in the rough
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s526/Kiwi_Roy/Camper/Camper4_zpsaf61132d.jpg)
Of course I still end up taking more than I need, this was heading out for a 10 day trip to Idaho
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s526/Kiwi_Roy/September%20trip/37281159-67ca-40a5-87c4-0e16ec6a9ec0_zps356a7571.jpg)
Somewhere along the way the bottle of oil behind the seat disappeared.
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s526/Kiwi_Roy/September%20trip/CIMG6915_zps18848121.jpg)
A cargo net and a couple of Rok straps come in real handy
Of course toiletries, a camera and raingear
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Tent
Sleeping bag
Air matress
White gas camp stove
ex military mess kit
Flashlight
Coffee - those Starbucks one cup minis
Spare pair of pants if going over a week
1 shirt for every 2 days
Socks & underwear
A hoodie is good for sleeping if it's cold and around the fire
Way more tools than I ever need
I cut myself down from 2 sidebags and a top box to just the top box otherwise you take too much crap
Beer of course
Food
So, what your saying is either get a side car or bike trailer ;-T
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ask Storm Truck :pop
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Undies, shirt, pants, socks, walking shoes maybe, bath supplies, rain gear, tire kit, water and snacks. Roll your clothes rather than fold.
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Of course I still end up taking more than I need, this was a 10 day trip to Idaho
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s526/Kiwi_Roy/September%20trip/CIMG6915_zps18848121.jpg)
You did a great job of concealing the beer ;D
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Cameras, laptop, warm clothes and toothbrush.
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I travel mostly in the mountains and it can drop below freezing overnight even in July. I prefer not to camp out but carry the survival basics just in case. Here's my kit for a solo long weekend on the Guzzi:
In small panniers:
Down bag (2.5 lb)
Bike cover (it can serve as a ground cloth/rain cover in a pinch)
Tool kit including a lot of zip ties, clean shop rag, hand cleaner, Gorilla tape
Street clothes (change of pants, shirt etc)
Underlayers: high-quality polyester (fast dry) tees, turtleneck, socks -- two sets each; one set longjohns
Extra gloves
Toilet kit: usual but implements smaller to fit in tiny bag (cut the handle off hairbrush, half-length toothbrush, etc)
Two quarts water in quart containers
In tank bag:
Hi-calorie/low-sodium snacks (granola bars, chocolate, unsalted nuts, dried fruit etc)
Maps, paperback book
Camera
In pockets:
Phone, spare glasses with lens wipes, Leatherman tool etc
Two-up requires more stuff so top box and big panniers are needed. Tent, camp stove with fuel may come along. Gail gets one pannier bag and the top box to pack her stuff.
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Great lists guys. This is what I was afraid of, if I over did it.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5wW-4C2T0Gg/UwIg89Pc3iI/AAAAAAAADRY/fg8yXH6r9vA/s1600/overpacked-motorcycle.jpg)
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Three days or three weeks; it’s the same.
(http://www.dankalal.net/2014trip20/photo179.JPG)
Electronic
Smartphone w/GPS maps
Spot w/batteries
Canon Camera w/case
Conversion wall plug, EU, UK, etc.
Charger: Canon (and spare battery)
Charger – USB
Garmin Dakota GPS
The Spot device is a passive thing that records where I’ve been on a web site (that can be accessed by anybody I choose). It helps to remind me just where I’ve been when I come back.
Navigation
Maps
Pocket information card
The information card is a laminated card that I create prior to my overseas trips. It fits into a shirt pocket and contains all sorts of information for emergencies as well as plenty of other helpful information.
I use only water-proof laminated maps and keep them in my riding suit. If I have maps I’m not using, they will go in the bottom of the duffle-bag.
Toiletries
Hair Brush
Toothbrush and paste
Glasses screwdriver
Razor and gel
Deodorant
Shampoo
Detergent for sink-washing
Sink stopper
I carry a flat rubber sink stopper for doing washing every night (do not count on the hotel having a stopper). Tide makes individual packets for this, which works very well and can never leak.
Travel
Passport
US driver's license
Insurance cards
Medex travel card (evacuation coverage)
Visa credit card
Travelex cash card (EMV capable)
First aid kit
flashlight
Ear plugs
Kansas flag (4)
Duffle tie-down straps
Ferry tie-down straps
Ziploc bags (gallon and sandwich)
Personal Cards (business cards)
Tire Pressure Gauge
Pen
Water-bottle pouch
Alcohol breathalyzer (required in France)
My first aid kit is fairly small and dedicated mostly to road-rash. I also carry anti-diarrheal pills and Pepto-Bismo (sometimes needed in strange locations with strange food)
My flashlight is actually just the zipper tab on the riding suit (LED)
I always ride with ear-plugs
I carry the Kansas flags as a sort of gift to people along the way who have really done something good. It’s nice to have a little something to reward your Hotel owner for letting you park the bike in his special place.
The duffle tie-downs are the yellow things that I made to include a quick disconnect.
The blue Ferry tie-downs are packed when I know I’ll be on a long ferry during the trip. They go in a nylon zipper bag. They have a fairly heavy hook on each end and pull tight (but do not have a ratchet).
The water-bottle pouch clips to the duffle-bag.
My duffle-bag is a yellow small size Ortleib water-proof duffle (not sure the model name). It has no zipper but instead simply folds over and straps shut. It has no external pockets. There are likely many bags out there that are cleverer, but this is what I want—a very basic duffle bag with nothing else going on. I strap it down on either end with the two yellow straps. I do not use bungee cords (they cannot be trusted).
I empty my wallet of every card that I do not need
My passport and information card are in the front pocket of my shirt (which is buttoned shut).
Clothing
Helmet w/bag
Gloves
Socks (1+1)
Underwear (1+1)
Pants (1+1)
Shirts (1+1)
light weight waterproof windbreaker
Polar-tech pull-over
Aerostich Roadcrafter
Motorcycle boots
Walking shoes
Shoe bags (2)
Hat
Silk Scarf
I use the helmet bag for holding dirty laundry
I wear clothing, and I pack a spare of the same. That’s it. I wash every night and start every morning with clean, dry clothes. The key is to buy the right ones. My shirts are TravelSmith fast-dry long-sleeve. Underwear is Exofficio fast-dry. Socks are smart-wool, pants are Dockers (not jeans) which pack slim and flat.
The polar-tech jacket is a pull-over thing that I can wear as a liner with the riding suit and off the bike as well (under the jacket).
I use a one-piece Aerostich Roadcrafter and have used it since 1993. It works. It’s waterproof (virtually) and I wear it all the time.
My boots are Sidi.
After I park the bike for the night, I immediately switch to my walking shoes (and then put the clothing in the sink to soak). These were selected to be low (for thin packing) but with a very sturdy and aggressive sole for hiking (think of a thin hiking boot).
The shoe bags keep each shoe separate from everything else.
I wear the long silk scarf regardless of temperature. It really makes everything more comfortable.
The belt I use can also be used as a tie-down strap if needed. These are found in camping stores—very cheap.
When I walk around, I look nothing like somebody who arrived on a motorcycle. Actually, with the black Dockers, walking shoes (not tennis shoes) and long sleeve shirt I look presentable enough for any restaurant I might be at in Europe.
Events before leaving
Stop mail
Stop newspaper
Notify Visa
Wash and waterproof the Roadcrafter
Clean helmet
Update GPS maps
Check helmet shield for replacement
Check boots for integrity
Check shirt buttons
Check condition of shoe laces
Check or reinforce pants button
Ensure Verizon Global Data plan
How to pack?
All the toiletries go in a zipper travel bag; all the electric things go in another zipper bag. One bag goes crosswise in one end of the duffle, and the other in the other end.
The base of the duffle has my pants, flags.
One shoe has the sole facing forward in the front, and the other has the sole facing rearward in the rear (as the duffle bag sits cross-wise on the seat). This gives a flat surface from the outside.
Yesterday’s clothing (in the helmet bag) goes in the middle.
Then I stuff the jacket making sure I push it into all corners of the duffle-bag.
The polartech pull-over goes next (again pushing it into all corners)
Then the hat
Then I strap it shut.
Then I strap the duffle-bag to the bike
At the first stop I’ll double pull the straps.
As you can tell, if it were not for the pull-over and the jacket, I would hardly have enough to fill out the duffle bag. So I could easily pack even smaller, but there’s not much point. The whole thing weighs around 12 pounds.
I park the bike for the evening, unclip the two straps and walk away with the duffle bag holding everything I have.
I can pack for a motorcycle trip in about twenty minutes. Most of the stuff I mentioned isn’t what I would wear normally (such as the shirts and underwear and socks) so this stuff is just put away until I need it.
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Great lists guys. This is what I was afraid of, if I over did it.
I'm sure that was an epic trip but how can you enjoy riding with all that stuff?
Oh I forgot, a Spot tracker so family can follow my progress
www.findmespot.com
Great List Daniel, I will be stealing some of that ;D
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I was just about to say "Daniel Kalal takes everything he needs for multi week trips in a yellow hold all." but I see he got in before me.
Pete
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Make two piles. One is "gotta have" . Second is "would like to have." Delete number two. ;D Cut number one in half, and you'll be about right. Everybody takes more than they need. Less=more. ;D
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Uh , didn't the OP say weekend trips staying in motels ? You guys are trying to equip him for a month on the road camping out ;D
Dusty
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Wow Daniel, looks like your ready for anything that comes your way. Ah ha, you forgot the bug spray.
I guess if I'm riding with you all I would need is my wallet and toothbrush ;D
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Three days or three weeks; it’s the same.
(http://www.dankalal.net/2014trip20/photo179.JPG)
Looking at your pic, is that everything from your list?
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you forgot the bug spray.
No; that's why the shirts are long-sleeve.
It works on any bike (no need to bother with saddle-bags or a tank bag)
(http://www.dankalal.net/2009trip17/photo064.JPG)
(http://www.dankalal.net/2011trip10/photo083.JPG)
(http://www.dankalal.net/2012trip10/photo005.JPG)
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Cell phone, credit card, and cigars. Done.
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Dan, how's the Griso on dem trips?
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I like Daniel's list for hotel stays.
I tend to have a lot of stuff on the bike all the time, like tools, rags, extra oil and cables, etc, so the only things 'extra' I carry are clothes for whatever type trip I am on. Max is 4 days worth of underwear (I wear riding pants and jacket when on the bike). Every 3 days I plan to do laundry.
Bottom line is start out slow. Take a long day ride. See if you need anything you didn't bring. Then do an overnight trip (even if just an hour from home). Then do a weekend.
And remember, there are stores where you are going. If you forget something you can always run by the local store (if not in the hotel) and buy it. Heck, I know people who buy a pack of new underwear and socks every few days instead of doing laundry.
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Dan, how's the Griso on dem trips?
That's Pete's Griso. Excellent. The Griso is an excellent touring bike. I really went back and forth before buying the Stelvio. The fuel capacity is what decided it for me. Otherwise, I could tour happily with either one.
(I notice you didn't ask about touring on a Royal Enfield...)
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I have 40l H&B bags on the EV plus a small rack on the rear fender with a Willie & Max tailbag.
For a camping trip:
Tent - 3 man Eureka
Ground sheet
Sleeping bag
air mattress
collapsible cooler
Umbrella
rain gear/gloves/boot gaiters
camp shoes
tools
Clothing:
one complete change of clothes
shorts/bathing suit
underwear & sox as req'd
T shirts as req'd
sweater
a shirt with a collar
toiletries
face cloth
towel
bug juice (eg Muskol)
sunscreen
camera & charger
a book
a cup
a hat
flashlite & batteries
beer mit
maps
misc. lightbulbs, fuses, zip ties, nuts & bolts etc
Plus what I am wearing. Helmet, jacket, gloves, jeans, boots etc.
All the hardware/tools/raingear fits in the Willie & Max tail pack.
Sleeping bag, air mattress, shoes, brolly etc go in one pannier
Clothing, toiletries, all the small stuff (in a carry all) go in the other pannier.
Tent, groundsheet & cooler are strapped to the pillion.
Two up is a completely different matter.
Cheers!
G
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That's Pete's Griso. Excellent. The Griso is an excellent touring bike. I really went back and forth before buying the Stelvio. The fuel capacity is what decided it for me. Otherwise, I could tour happily with either one.
(I notice you didn't ask about touring on a Royal Enfield...)
The reason I asked about the griso is because that's what I'll be riding.
How was it on the Enfield :pop
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Seriously Geoff, nuts & bolts?
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How was it on the Enfield
Relaxed. (In general, that's also good advice for riding in India)
By the way, at Luap's last Missouri get-together, I added a tent and sleeping bag...
(http://www.dankalal.net/2014trip11/photo001.JPG)
...all into that same yellow bag with all the other stuff.
(http://www.dankalal.net/2014trip11/photo030.JPG)
(it's not quite the bag Mary Poppins used, but close)
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I have done a bunch of multi day motorcycle trips, east coast to west coast a few times. I mention that not to brag, just to establish a baseline. In every case I come home and realize that there is stuff I took that I never used, usually clothing. Let's face it, you can go more than one day on a pair of underwear. You can wash your socks in the sink and let them dry overnight. If still damp in the AM lash them to the top of your pack and let them air dry at 60 mph. Don't need a hair brush. This is not a fashion statement. Cotton kills so pack synthetic shirts and be wary of bluejeans. I like to wear riding pants like Darien pants and light pants or shorts underneath. If you forget something there is always WalMart.
On the critical list: rain gear (it WILL rain), heated vest and controller (even at 60F you can experience hypothermia), extra gloves, extra credit cards carried in a hidden spot, copies of drivers license and other critical documents, some kind of road side assistance plan. If you never need this stuff...great. If you need it and don't have it you are in deep shit.
Don't forget a camera and take photos of everyone you meet along the way. That way you will remember what an amazing trip you had. The amazing part is always because of the people you met, not the places you saw.
Peter Y.
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For moteling, a tank bag is plenty unless you are going to be out for several days.
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Oh, I forgot...leave the .45 at home.
ducking now for the incoming rounds....
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For moteling, a tank bag is plenty unless you are going to be out for several days.
Yes! I can't imagine what everyone does with all that stuff they listed.
1) My toiletries go in a little quart zip-loc bag. Pill case, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, disposable razor, done. You're riding a motorcycle in the USA, you don't need much. Since about 1968, every motel room in the USA includes washcloths, towels, and soap.
2) A couple pair of Ex Officio underwear (you can wash it out in the motel and it's dry by morning). 3 pair merino wool socks. You're wearing the only other clothes you need.
3) No electronics. Leave that crap at home (well maybe except a little camera, we'll want to see where you went). You can tell us about it when you come back. You're on holiday, you don't need electronic ankle bracelets, leashes, and teddy bears.
4) The stuff in your wallet is already there. Money, credit cards, ID, health insurance card. That's it.
5) Rain gear and alternative riding gear - maybe a mesh jacket if you're wearing a heavy one, and a heavy jacket if you're wearing mesh. If the climate is not going to be too radical, your rain gear can go over your mesh at night. You'll have to make the call on that.
This stuff will go in a tank bag or one top box or tail bag, easy. If your riding gear is bulky, maybe strap it on top.
Camping is a different story, but moteling it is easy-peasy. I enjoy both!
Lannis
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Clothing
Helmet w/bag
Gloves
Socks (1+1)
Underwear (1+1)
Pants (1+1)
Shirts (1+1)
light weight waterproof windbreaker
Polar-tech pull-over
Aerostich Roadcrafter
Motorcycle boots
Walking shoes
Shoe bags (2)
Hat
Silk Scarf
I use the helmet bag for holding dirty laundry
I wear clothing, and I pack a spare of the same. That’s it. I wash every night and start every morning with clean, dry clothes. The key is to buy the right ones. My shirts are TravelSmith fast-dry long-sleeve. Underwear is Exofficio fast-dry. Socks are smart-wool, pants are Dockers (not jeans) which pack slim and flat.
The polar-tech jacket is a pull-over thing that I can wear as a liner with the riding suit and off the bike as well (under the jacket).
I use a one-piece Aerostich Roadcrafter and have used it since 1993. It works. It’s waterproof (virtually) and I wear it all the time.
My boots are Sidi.
After I park the bike for the night, I immediately switch to my walking shoes (and then put the clothing in the sink to soak). These were selected to be low (for thin packing) but with a very sturdy and aggressive sole for hiking (think of a thin hiking boot).
The shoe bags keep each shoe separate from everything else.
I wear the long silk scarf regardless of temperature. It really makes everything more comfortable.
The belt I use can also be used as a tie-down strap if needed. These are found in camping stores—very cheap.
When I walk around, I look nothing like somebody who arrived on a motorcycle. Actually, with the black Dockers, walking shoes (not tennis shoes) and long sleeve shirt I look presentable enough for any restaurant I might be at in Europe.
Hi, Daniel.
I went to look at the shirts you described, and the only things close to that description that I could find on the TravelSmith site are the TravelSmith Qwik-Dry V-Neck T-Shirt and the TravelSmith Qwik-Dry Crewneck T-Shirt. They have long-sleeve shirts, but nothing that I could find that indicated Fast-Dry or Qwik-Dry. Would you be able to point me in the correct direction? I prefer to ride with long sleeves.
Oops, I think I might have just found it:
http://www.travelsmith.com/travelsmith-uber-utility-chambray-shirt/men/shirts/794360 (http://www.travelsmith.com/travelsmith-uber-utility-chambray-shirt/men/shirts/794360)
The description indicates that it is fast-drying.
Thanks,
Shaun
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I might have just found it..
The name has changed over the years, but the shirt looks the same:
"TravelSmith Hemisphere Original"
You only need to give the shirt a squeeze and hang it up. It will be dry in the morning even if it's dripping in the evening. It's a very high quality shirt.
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...No electronics. Leave that crap at home...
Really; I think if somebody wants to carry a camera and a phone and a gps with them (was anything else mentioned?) the world will still turn.
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Really; I think if somebody wants to carry a camera and a phone and a gps with them (was anything else mentioned?) the world will still turn.
Well, I DID say "a little camera", although I generally like to let you take the pictures, because they're composed so much better and have so much better subject matter than mine will ever have.
Of course the world will still turn if people take their normal load of iPads and iPods and tablets and GPS and smartphones and dumbphones and this is the house that Jack built, but my suggestion is to leave all that stuff at home and maximize your time of experiencing the actual world and actual people rather than the virtual stuff that seems to have taken over .... Just my suggestion, mind you, I didn't manage to pass any sort of law about it .... ;-T
Lannis
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I say don't waste a bunch of time planning and getting all the doo dads and go ride.
keep it simple, phone, credit card, toiletries and meds maybe Advil or something. Pack and wear old socks and undies and trash them as you go. I'd take a flask for the evening but that's just me. Put on the best riding gear you got and some tools and go have fun. Don't wait for anyone or anything. You'll only waste fun time.
Just go make some memories, you'll know what YOU need next trip.
And ride safely
Js
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The name has changed over the years, but the shirt looks the same:
"TravelSmith Hemisphere Original"
You only need to give the shirt a squeeze and hang it up. It will be dry in the morning even if it's dripping in the evening. It's a very high quality shirt.
Thanks, Daniel.
Shaun
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toilet paper or an extra shirt.
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.45
Corbon Powrball.
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Been doing this for years and years. 55 year later I still always pack to much. Way to much.
When I left home it was 87 degrees.
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/DSCN0803_zps35042789.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/DSCN0803_zps35042789.jpg.html)
Three weeks later it was around 32 degrees. It takes a lot of room to carry cold weather gear.
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/DSC_0157_zps6a9549f8.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/DSC_0157_zps6a9549f8.jpg.html)
Around the end of June, on that ride, I shipped home about 45 pounds of gear. Motorcycle was much more enjoyable.
For a overnight at a motel all you need, in addition to normal seasonal riding gear, is a shaving kit. ;D And I'm not all that sure you need that. But, as long as you have room carry as much as you want. I always have a camera, cell phone, credit card, cash, AAA card. What ever tool came with the motorcycle.
AAA card and a cell phone-always.
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/DSC_0251_zpsfa1792e2.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/DSC_0251_zpsfa1792e2.jpg.html)
:BEER:
Matt
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For a overnight at a motel all you need, in addition to normal seasonal riding gear, is a shaving kit. ;D And I'm not all that sure you need that.
And that's sort of the question I was answering, and suggesting minimalist luggage.
A very enjoyable thing to do, by yourself, is to ride, say 500 miles to the west of your home, and get a motel room. Next day, ride 500 miles northeast, and get a room. Next day, ride home.
You don't have to make any plans, you just ride all day and look at the scenery and meet people at mom-and-pop restaurants and overlooks and gas stops, and talk, and see more sights, and relax with your feet up with a pizza and a diet Pepsi on the plastic chair in front of the motel room at night.
For a trip like that, you don't need any more than what I suggested earlier.
You need MUCH more stuff than that if:
1) You have to do something or look like something at your destination.
2) You're camping.
3) You're riding to a place 6,000 miles from home in dodgy weather.
But just for bimbling around for a few days? Free yourself up!
Lannis
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Oh oh! I almost forgot baby wipes. Multitude of uses including wiping the occasional baby.
Dave
Galveston
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And water. I always carry water. :BEER:
Matt
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I always take my older socks-tees-undies that were getting close to getting rid of and do just that to lighten up the load as I go, I'll use the old tees to check the oil and such, then if I find a cool tee somewhere I'll have room for it :BEER:
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Quote from dilligaff:
And water. I always carry water.
:+1
GliderJohn
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I'm in 100% agreement with Lannis (on this one:-)). For a weekender you don't need much.
A standard travelling rule that I have followed for many decades (two wheeling or DC10'ing) is "take less stuff and more money"!!!
However!!!... (call me old school) I don't leave home without my 30 year old hand-held Uniden CB radio. It's always tucked into the side pocket of my tankbag (which virtually never comes off the bike). It has saved my ass on many occasions. Nothing will get you help faster, especially on the interstate.
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I'm in 100% agreement with Lannis (on this one:-)). For a weekender you don't need much.
A standard travelling rule that I have followed for many decades (two wheeling or DC10'ing) is "take less stuff and more money"!!!
However!!!... (call me old school) I don't leave home without my 30 year old hand-held Uniden CB radio. It's always tucked into the side pocket of my tankbag (which virtually never comes off the bike). It has saved my ass on many occasions. Nothing will get you help faster, especially on the interstate.
Now that we've gotten into real detail, I will say that my little kit includes a pocket-pack of baby-wipes (unscented and flushable; keeps a boy neat and clean when used on potentially moist patches), and I do generally strap a pint or liter of water in an easy-to-reach place on the bike.
I can't think of any occasions where a CB radio would have "saved my ass" over the years, though. The only thing I know about CB radios is that when one of the local boys pulls up in my yard in his pickup truck and tells me that the hunt club has shot a deer on the timber-company land next to me, and the deer expired on my side of the river and can they go in after it? .... that his CB radio seems to be full of excited, screaming "hunters" trying to tell each other where the deer is and there's one about to cross the highway at the pipeline and Red might get a shot at it if he looks right now out the window of his truck.... ;)
But if you know how to use it, that's a good thing!
Lannis
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I was curious as to what riders pack on let say a weekend trip. Just hotels for the night.
I know it sounds noob of me ::), but I've never taken bike trips. This summer I plan on doing a few.
All you'll need is a tank bag for that kind of trip. And/or a small set of saddlebags.
1) small tool kit and tire plug kit for the bike.
2) toiletries.
3) an extra set of socks and underwear. And swim trunks if you want to hit the pool or hot tub.
That's pretty much it for an overnighter/weekend trip.
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That's pretty much it for an overnighter/weekend trip.
Of course, there's no right or wrong in a list like this, but I'm surprised that more people don't include walking shoes as a standard pack item (even for a single overnight). After the ride, about the very first thing I do is take off the riding boots and put on the shoes (even though my boots are comfortable).
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Of course, there's no right or wrong in a list like this, but I'm surprised that more people don't include walking shoes as a standard pack item (even for a single overnight). After the ride, about the very first thing I do is take off the riding boots and put on the shoes (even though my boots are comfortable).
True. I didn't think about that, but I do usually carry some walking shoes or light hiking boots when travelling.
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Of course, there's no right or wrong in a list like this, but I'm surprised that more people don't include walking shoes as a standard pack item (even for a single overnight). After the ride, about the very first thing I do is take off the riding boots and put on the shoes (even though my boots are comfortable).
When I was wearing my Sidi Aerostich "Combat Touring" boots all the time, I did the same. I still wear them when there is much riding and little walking in the plan, although they're good for a mile or so of walking before you start thinking "Why didn't I bring something else?"
But when I'm packing light, and there MIGHT be some considerable walking to do, I wear my Timberland zip-side boots. They're as comfortable as anything else I have to walk in, and they provide a goodly amount of protection on the bike (besides being waterproof). Not as protective as purpose built motorcycle boots, but sometimes the comfort on a "mixed" day of walking and riding is worth it in the big equation ....
Lannis
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Seriously Geoff, nuts & bolts?
Yep. I would rather have them and not need them....
It's kind of a holdover from my Brit bike and Harley days.
The heated vest is a good idea, depending on the time of year.
G
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I travelled for about a month up and around the West Coast of the U.S. on the Griso Pinko back in 2010, (Good grief! Five years ago!). Everything I needed fitted in the tank bag and tail pack and most of the tail pack was full of lap-top, Navigator and some hand tools, far too many tools in fact, I didn't need any of them!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4141/4736268781_e190477a3d_z.jpg)
Over here nowadays if I'm just 'Weekending' it a tank bag is all I really need but I still tend to over-pack.
Day trippin'
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8055/8136780259_8b4137c09d_z.jpg)
Pete
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Might seem silly , but I never leave on even a day trip W/O a couple of nicely broken in cotton bandanas . Preferably a white one and a red one . Can be used for a myriad of purposes , medical , to signal for help , even "I surrender" in case of enemy attack ;D
Dusty
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For any MC trip, I like to have with me:
12V compact air compressor. (The Slime brand "Powersports" compressor is a good one at a good price; I don't trust CO2 cartridges.)
I highly recommend this kit -- it has served me well for many years and has saved me from being stranded with flat tires on two separate long-distance trips:
(http://www.slingshotforums.com/attachments/0363-0019-png.2997/)
SAE plug hard-wired to the battery (to power the above air compressor (and other things) without having to unload the bike or remove the seat)
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41VwHgzEyjL._SX300_.jpg)
(Good idea to make sure it is fused and that you bring an extra fuse.)
SAE-to-USB connector cord (to charge USB devices, such as cell phones and digital cameras)
(http://burnsmoto.com/img/usb-wp-sae-400.jpg)
tire plug kit (either gummy-worm type, with reamer and insertion tools, knife or sharp scissors, and fresh (check before leaving!) rubber cement, or the "Stop-n-Go" brand kit)
(http://static.twisted-throttle.net/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/28496d0a14ec004b76332fd2427e3099/p/h/phpd7Ucxc.jpg)
tire pressure gauge (I find that a digital gauge with lighted dial travels best.)
small LED flashlight with fresh batteries
LED head light with fresh battery (i.e., camping style light to strap on your head -- makes it possible to light what you're working on if you're alone)
stock tool kit, plus a few supplemental tools (e.g., Allen wrenches, select sockets and compact driver), depending on the bike
zip ties (assorted)
Duck (or duct) tape
crimp-style electrical connectors
spare headlight and tail light bulbs
spare fuses
a few spare assorted bolts and fasteners
microfiber cloth
cotton cloth
nitrile gloves
small first aid kit
Swiss Army-style knife
Leatherman-style multi-tool
health insurance ID card
cash and credit cards
maps / passport / visas / other travel documents
driver's license and (if required) insurance card (duh!)
Roadside Assistance card (I have coverage via the AMA)
current vehicle registration papers and up-to-date tag (via sticker in Fla.)
spare clutch and brake levers (too paranoid?)
This looks like a long list, but most of the items are very small and light, and it's easy to pack them creatively to take up very little space.
In addition to the above, I am toying with the idea of getting one of these:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61zBne6%2BOEL._SL1000_.jpg)
It's a portable jump-starter / USB charger. For around $100, you can have enough power to jump-start a vehicle, run USB-powered devices, etc., whenever and wherever you need it. I have not needed one on any of my trips, yet, as I tend to keep the batteries of my vehicles in good working order, but one never knows...
I keep Crampbuster throttle rockers on my travel bikes; my gf prefers her Vista Cruise; others like the Throttlemeister. I recently bought an Omni-Cruise from Lee Parks, but have yet to try it.
(http://cdn3.bigcommerce.com/s-cll2t3r/products/92/images/300/OMNI_CRUISE__46193.1413910767.1280.1280.jpg?c=2)
http://www.leeparksdesign.com/omni-cruise-throttle-lock/
Whichever you prefer, I recommend you get something like this on your bike so you can give your right hand a little relief from time to time.
As for MC gear, travel clothing, and personal items, others have covered most of the points I would make. The ones I will emphasize are:
Bring a spare set of MC gloves. (I prefer to bring a pair of lightweight (non-insulated) waterproof gloves as my back-up pair, plus a pair of glove liners if I need extra warmth. Riding with wet gloves is a bummer, and once your primary gloves get wet (which will eventually happen), they will take forever to dry out).
Bring a rain suit, and wear waterproof boots (or bring waterproof overboots) -- if only to ensure that it will not rain during your trip. ;)
Pack a spare face shield. (I travel with one clear and one dark smoke.) Keep the extra shield in a tube sock or better yet in a wearable shield travel bag like this:
(http://images.motorcycle-superstore.com/ProductImages/OG/2009_Fieldsheer_Visor_Bag.jpg)
Small bottles of sunscreen and bug spray.
Pepper spray. (Or bear spray -- depends on where you're going!)
Don't forget your eyeglasses and/or sunglasses.
A ball cap or other small fold-able hat to hide helmet-hair when you're off the bike.
A small cable-style gear lock for your helmet and jacket, and a disc lock for the bike, so you can enjoy your time off the bike with less worry. (I try to keep all valuable items and most emergency items in a tank bag that can convert to a shoulder bag or backpack, and take that with me when I'm off the bike. That way, mostly what is in the bags that I leave on the bike is my laundry. Who wants someone else's laundry?)
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This is how I was loaded for the last Colorado not-a-rally in 2013 (mine is the red 850T on the right). Three-day trip, set up for camping, but I had too much stuff -- I've pared it down a lot and would now do it with a smallish tank bag in place of the extra set of panniers.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/90979552/2013-06-22%2012.43.43.jpg)
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Of course missing from all of this great advice are the four most important items to always carry on a MC trip .
1. Sense of wonder and adventure
2. Sense of humor
3. Common sense
4 Your motorcycle
Dusty
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When I left home it was 87 degrees.
Three weeks later it was around 32 degrees.
Around the end of June, on that ride, I shipped home about 45 pounds of gear.
But we're talking overnighters / weekenders. :D
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True. But I enjoy posting pictures and I seldom do an overnight or weekend ride unless it's to one of the local rallies. That why I added this as a way out. ;D
"For a overnight at a motel all you need, in addition to normal seasonal riding gear, is a shaving kit. ;D And I'm not all that sure you need that. "
Our SP loaded out for a two up ride to the MGNOC LA State Rally.
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/DSC_0001_zps35b2e4fb.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/DSC_0001_zps35b2e4fb.jpg.html)
:BEER:
Matt
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True. I didn't think about that, but I do usually carry some walking shoes or light hiking boots when travelling.
+ flip flops
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I carry leather sandals. When camping I also carry flip flops for the shower. :BEER:
Matt
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Tent
Sleeping bag
Air matress
White gas camp stove
ex military mess kit
Flashlight
Coffee - those Starbucks one cup minis
Spare pair of pants if going over a week
1 shirt for every 2 days
Socks & underwear
A hoodie is good for sleeping if it's cold and around the fire
Way more tools than I ever need
I cut myself down from 2 sidebags and a top box to just the top box otherwise you take too much crap
Beer of course, pick that up at the end of the day
Food
A steak is nice with a spud to throw in the embers, you feast like a King
Bagals & cream cheese for breakfast with coffee
Stop somewhere for lunch or a late breakfast.
Large bottle of water, carry that outside the top box so it's handy
I made a little rack for the EV that can do backup as a table if camping in the rough
(http://i1304.photobucket.com/albums/s526/Kiwi_Roy/Camper/Camper4_zpsaf61132d.jpg)
Of course I still end up taking more than I need...
I love that rack. Looks like exactly what I need. What did you use? Steel? Aluminum? Other than the 90 degree bends, did you reinforce it at all?
That looks like something I can do.
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toilet paper or an extra shirt.
??????
And water............La st summer a mate had to be CasEvacted from Hungary after he got seriously dehydrated and had a small stroke............. ..whats worse was for a while I thought I might have to go out there and ride his Harley back........
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A small soft sided cooler. One that you can fold up. Saddle bags will do but......These things make great saddle bags and do a great job of keeping the beer cool. http://www.revpack.com/saddlepacks-deluxe/ ;-T
When I do a weekend rally I prefer not to show mt handed. ::(
(http://i1354.photobucket.com/albums/q692/2jabam3/Picture025_zps0356c06c.jpg) (http://s1354.photobucket.com/user/2jabam3/media/Picture025_zps0356c06c.jpg.html) :BEER:
Matt
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I love that rack. Looks like exactly what I need. What did you use? Steel? Aluminum? Other than the 90 degree bends, did you reinforce it at all?
That looks like something I can do.
1/8" Aluminum, I just measured the distance between the two bolt holes marked it on the side plates then cut both together freehand with a coping saw.
I'll send you a few pictures in the morning.
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:+1 on dilligaf (water).
For a weekender, staying in motels..........Tra vel size toiletries including a partial roll of TP. Pair of comfortable tennies. A shirt or two and extra set of underwear, socks and jeans. You can wash your clothes in the motel sink, hand wring them, then wrap them in a towel and wring again. They'll be dry by morning. Many motels even have a hair dryer (for drying socks) and a clothes iron in the room. I always have Frogg Togg rain gear packed in my saddlebags. Reasonably effective on a bike, reasonably priced and pack down reasonably small. You still packed too much. Oh well...........Jack . Ooops, oh yeah, a small LED flashlight and tire gauge. Egads, most important of all, a nice fluffy towel (Hitchhiker's Guide).
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(I notice you didn't ask about touring on a Royal Enfield...)
That's quite alright, Daniel - I think they are just being polite, but there are some of us quite aware of the joys of touring on an Enfield. Only a few extra tools & parts, just in case. Lots of fun.
Mal
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For moteling, a tank bag is plenty unless you are going to be out for several days.
this. A tank bag is good for a weekend if you are staying in a motel.
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I was curious as to what riders pack on let say a weekend trip. Just hotels for the night.
I know it sounds noob of me ::), but I've never taken bike trips. This summer I plan on doing a few.
Ha Ha Ha! Thought this was another of those tedious gun threads!
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Might seem silly , but I never leave on even a day trip W/O a couple of nicely broken in cotton bandanas . Preferably a white one and a red one . Can be used for a myriad of purposes , medical , to signal for help , even "I surrender" in case of enemy attack ;D
Dusty
I didn't know you had been in the signal corps!
(http://www.3rdbillericayscouts.org.uk/Orion/Activities/Semaphore/sailor.jpg)
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I didn't know you had been in the signal corps!
(http://www.3rdbillericayscouts.org.uk/Orion/Activities/Semaphore/sailor.jpg)
:D :D :D :D :D
Was thinking more a gang of BMW riders invading a camp out :o :D
Dusty
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Bare min, weekend, week, month, 6 months, same needs, as said you can buy more if essential, far more likely you dump something or bring home unused.
Coupla tricks
ride in boots you can walk or go to dinner in, spare shoes either light runners or sandals.
Swimming trunks that you can wear as shorts (short trousers) I often don't even bother with spare longs, usually never wear them if I do, if cold I keep my leathers on, maybe difficult for people with bulky fancy coloured riding pants, their problem.
Merino base layer, warm even wet but more important it wicks and doesn't stink, synthetics may dry quickly but you have to wash daily cos they pong
Ditto socks, wool can go many days, synthetics stink
Most important and I see this forgotten so often
Pack when wearing the least you'll ride in, even if it's pissing down and freezing
If you're fully loaded wearing a mas of clothing and wet outfit on, where you gonna put it when sun comes out ?
Example, in Sahara desert 1985
(http://jacksonracing.com.au/images/africa/wallshot.jpg)
Taking a fancy Italian handbag was stupid, I bitched about extra weight for years
Last year on UK/Ireland trip for 6 weeks, no handbag
(http://jacksonracing.com.au/images/guzzi/Natwells.jpg)
Big Oz trip below , slightly more cos I had some extra rain suits to show client in Sydney but rack is good to carry ours, even quicker access than tankbag as above
Did I say wets must be quick and easy to get at / on ?
Otherwise you're soaked
(http://jacksonracing.com.au/images/guzzi/cali/park0001.jpg)
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Merino base layer, warm even wet but more important it wicks and doesn't stink, synthetics may dry quickly but you have to wash daily cos they pong
Ditto socks, wool can go many days, synthetics stink
****
Spoken like a man from sheep country. ;D
Good points, tho. Still, while I, too, am a fan of wool, some of the new stuff is near magic.
On the thread as a whole, even I, who'll read most anything here, gave a slight eye roll when I saw this one.
Well, just read through it, and am glad I did.
I've traveled enough to have my own list and am at an age where I think I have it figured out. But.
Think I'll print Daniel Kalal's list and mod it with some others' suggestions.
I have gotten Kathi to believe agree that she only needs one of the Norge's panniers for her hair stuff, leaving one and the top case for her clothes, etc., thus leaving me the tank bag. ::) :wife:
Seriously -- tho the above was more serious than I might wish ::) -- I have actually gotten to the point where we travel lighter than we once did. If nothing else, I take way fewer tools!
Well, that's the theory, at least; the ride to New Hampshire this June will see how reality meshes with that. ;)
Bill
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Jack said: "Bare min, weekend, week, month, 6 months, same needs, as said you can buy more if essential, far more likely you dump something or bring home unused".
That's me. Been doing this stuff for over 55 years now and "that's me". I don't care how hard I attempt to cut back I always take stuff I never use. And this is the sad part-it's always the same stuff!!!!
I have learned however how to stay dry and warm. ;-T :BEER:
Matt
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...I always take stuff I never use....
Especially for my European trips, I use an extensive checklist that includes everything I need to take; I scrupulously adhere to it. Nothing I take is not needed and used (save the first aid kit).
When I return, I'll review and pare down that list to remove things that were not needed or add things that I should have taken. Only things that work well are kept on the checklist (that's how I arrived at Smart-wool socks as the best for me). For the last few trips, that checklist has not changed.
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Especially for my European trips, I use an extensive checklist that includes everything I need to take; I scrupulously adhere to it. Nothing I take is not needed and used (save the first aid kit).
Having spent most of my military career living by check lists I have to agree with Daniel that a check list is the way to go. Working with some of the students from the Nuclear Power School I'm not sure those sailors can go to go to the bathroom without a check list. ::( me off.
So, for now, I'll forgo a checklist. However, when I start taking this motorcycle stuff serious....... :BEER:
Matt
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I didn't know you had been in the signal corps!
(http://www.3rdbillericayscouts.org.uk/Orion/Activities/Semaphore/sailor.jpg)
Let's see - I've been told that a red bandanna on your handlebars means you know a Hell's Angel. And at one time (still?) red meant Crips and blue meant Bloods - I was in Los Angeles in the early eighties wearing a red bandanna and a couple of black girls in a grocery store wanted to know if I was a Blood - I didn't have a clue what they were talking about, and told them so.
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Let's see - I've been told that a red bandanna on your handlebars means you know a Hell's Angel. And at one time (still?) red meant Crips and blue meant Bloods - I was in Los Angeles in the early eighties wearing a red bandanna and a couple of black girls in a grocery store wanted to know if I was a Blood - I didn't have a clue what they were talking about, and told them so.
Having heard so many rumors about what stuff means , I simply pay no attention at all . Let's see , if I wear green on Thursday it means I am gay , or was that blue on Tuesday . If I wear an ear ring on the left side it means the same thing , or maybe that was on the right . Green motorcycles are bad luck , there is a whole civilization living a thousand feet below the surface of the Earth and that is where UFOs come from , the devil made me do it , ad infinitum :D Shoot , my neighbor thinks every time a small plane flies over it is some agency looking for escaped aliens ::) :D
Dusty
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Dusty,
Not all that sure about all that other stuff but the "whole civilization" thing is correct. I've met some of them. Right sure that a least one of my motorcycles came from there. ;D :BEER:
Matt
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Especially for my European trips, I use an extensive checklist that includes everything I need to take; I scrupulously adhere to it. Nothing I take is not needed and used (save the first aid kit).
When I return, I'll review and pare down that list to remove things that were not needed or add things that I should have taken. Only things that work well are kept on the checklist (that's how I arrived at Smart-wool socks as the best for me). For the last few trips, that checklist has not changed.
Good advice, for us there's no need for list, completely habit, small bag each for clothes/ toiletries is all that needs packing
My bike here always has tools, spares & wets, last puncture I got was on a working day 20 miles from home, exactly same as being 1000 miles away, fix it, ride away.
Ditto glove change, our weather can change in an hour, I'm too old to ever get caught short again.
My UK bike only slightly different, I take riding gear , tools etc on plane, silly really as I go every year, this year I'll leave helmets, gloves, wets & some tools etc there.
Will make journey from Heathrow on underground an awful lot easier next time.
Something about 5 P's applies to travelling as much as racing.
Smart wool socks are the dogs, very high merino content, I got some snowboarding mid weight ones years ago, I take 2 pairs + one pair thin merino or cotton, is enough.
Lasted superbly (added nail clippers to toiletries to save socks)
Brilliant for walking as they are for riding, always cheap on US clearance sites (get last years colour scheme). Sierra Trading is good one.
Shameless plug for my WON-Z suit, this from customer who totally got it, does away with all bulky gear, wear against cold or wet, I don't carry big jumpers anymore
http://advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1043853
Scroll to "get out of bourke" on first page if you don't read all, gets more later in tale too.
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Daniel, your checklist was more complete than mine so I 'stole' it. Thanks.
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...this year I'll leave helmets, gloves, wets & some tools etc there...
not sure where your base is, but I've learned to do the same thing: I keep a helmet and boots in Mandello del Lario. I was getting tired of hauling those bulky things around in airports.
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not sure where your base is, but I've learned to do the same thing: I keep a helmet and boots in Mandello del Lario. I was getting tired of hauling those bulky things around in airports.
London, family there so absolutely no reason not to have stuff there, up and down escalators on underground after 24 hour flight should be with a rucksack only, time I (re) learnt that one.
The beauty of doing many road trips a year is knowing exactly what you need, only one nice shirt (and a dress for her) to go out in, chances are you're with different people every time so no-one knows it's your only posh kit, they're just stunned that you have that in your saddlebags, rolled tight.
I'm always amazed at the stuff people carry on bikes especially those with all weight behind and above rear wheel, horrible to ride,