Cross County Ride... Carry extra fuel or no…?

[radguzzi]

Thanks all for the great input…

This will be a slab fest and not a three week leisurely ride unfortunately. I may even try to knock put an Iron Butt 1000 just to do it.

So, for the aforementioned peace of mind and to error on the side of caution, I will carry at least one small fuel container, probably two for balance of weight purposes. I have been searching for ½ gallon containers, I fear the 1 gallon Rotopax are a bit too large.  Even though I will be packing light, the space in the two National Cycles side bags as well as a waterproof duffle bag / Dry bag across the back seat for some clothes, the iPad, cell and camera.

The plan is to, as mentioned, not pass up fuel opportunities after the 100 mile mark.  This will make for a large number of stops but it is what it is.

I am going the lower route as I do not want to encounter the Chicago and Detroit traffic.  Plus I like the Memphis and North stretch.  Another thing is that if I navigated through Utah and Colorado, I would be temped to stop and take photos for days on end.  That would not be a bad thing but I would rather share those times with my spouse of 40 + years. 

As for hydration, I always travel with a Camel-Bak so by the time the Guzzi needs fuel, I will need to empty the bladder.

The tank bag will have energy bars for snacks between food stops…

I am hoping to take some time off the slab, enjoy lunches in small towns but I cannot lollygag…  Either way I am looking forward to great adventure…! 

Rich A,
I do appreciate the offer to stay overnight at your place however, I do not want to be that guy that blows in to poach a couch late in the day and then split early the next morning.

Thanks, we will hook up another time I’m certain.
Best,
Rob

[rocker59]

That's the slippery slope: "Things can happen."  We all have our anxiety quotient that we need to work through.  For some, that means never getting on a motorcycle for fear of what might happen, and for others, it means base-jumping from the Eiffel Tower.

Do what seems right for you and carry on.

For me, it's not so much anxiety, but wanting to be able to fix small problems at the roadside which would otherwise delay or end my trip.  I know I can call a tow truck, or family member, or WG member for help, but I'd rather just plug the tire and keep going...

I know people who carry no tools or tire plug kit.  For them, a minor flat tire ends their day, and/or their trip, and requires a tow truck ride.  Without basic tools, fixing things like a shifter that's come loose, or replacing a burnt out tail light bulb is something they cannot do.

I do understand the slippery slope, because at the other end, I know people who have been known to carry complete spare starters, and such.  For that I'd just push start my bike.

 

[charlie b]

No problem.

PS, if you do plan on night riding, keep in mind at that time of year dark is closer to 10pm and it starts getting light at 4 or 5am  :)

PPS for less fuel consider one or two of the MSR stove fuel bottles.

Grew up on Phx and it was not unusual for the temp to be over 100F at midnight in July.

charlie

[radguzzi]

I'm thinking that these will fit in the National Cycles side cases, one each. 

3 Liter, they are actually shorter than the 2 Liter.  Tonight I will make a foam template to insure that they will fit with no issues...