USA tour Aug 2011

Hello Friends,

I'm planning a cross country trip in August, likely the last two weeks. It will originate from New Jersey. We are still in the planning phases. I intend to update this thread until we leave, I'd like to invite any and all to put some miles on with us. Join us for a leg of the trip. I'm the only VFR rider so far. (1990 750F) If anyone has any advice, or suggestions as to what I should look out for, pre ride must haves, or any advice in general please don't hesitate to post it. This is my first BIG adventure.

All though tentative, the trip will be close to this route:

Checkpoint 1: Central NJ (home)
Checkpoint 2: La Crosse Wisconsin
Checkpoint 3: Mitchell, South Dakota
Checkpoint 4: Deadwood, South Dakota
Checkpoint 5: Vail, Colorado (possibly Denver)
Checkpoint 6: Las Vegas, NV (probably extended stop here 2 days)
Checkpoint 7: Santa Monica Pier, California
Checkpoint 8: Phoenix, Arizona
Checkpoint 9: Roswell, New Mexico
Checkpoint 10: Fort Worth, Texas
Checkpoint 11: New Orleans, Louisiana
Checkpoint 12: Norfolk, Virgina (Virgina Beach)
Checkpoint 13: Lewes, Delaware (Ferry across to...)
Checkpoint 14: Cape May, New Jersey (stop in Atlantic City)
Checkpoint 15: Hampton, New Jersey (Home)
Checkpoint 16: My Chiropractor / My Bed for an extended sleep.

Next issue, my motorcycle...please don't be shy with suggestions, tips, warnings, reasons not to go etc....

I'm riding a Gen 3 1990 VFR 750 with 23,000 on the odometer. I consider it to be in excellent condition but want to be as safe and prepared as possible. I plan to replace my regulator rectifier before I leave, along with new tires and brakes. I will also carry the needed things such as chain lube (nightly while on the trip), extra chain, metric tool kit, first aid kit, rain gear, heated gear, cool gear, light camping gear. I plan to keep it as light as possible. I know I haven't listed everything yet, but you'll help me with that.

What do you think? Will you join up if we pass your area for a small trip? What more do I need? What maintenance should I do before I leave?

I'm hoping to be able to upload some updates as I'm out there. HELP!

Thanks in advance, I'm looking forward to your replies and suggestions as I know you're all better at this than me.

 

I'm thinking about trying to find a center stand before I leave, may help if something goes wrong.

 

Carry a spare fuel filter.
Make sure your Regulator-Rectifier is up to date.
Back in the dark ages when I rode a BSA Spitfire I carried a
parachute cord so that my buddy could tow me if needed . . .
which eventually did happen. A small flashlight should be in your kit.
I'm sure this thread will bring out many items people will suggest
you have on-board. Good luck on your trip.

 

I envy you. Would love to do a cross country trip!

My thoughts:

Tire Plug kit with 4 Co2 cartridges. Light and small. The 4 should be enough for full inflation, but if not, it will at least keep you going until civilization.

I wouldn't bother with an extra chain. 1. Its heavy. 2. You'll need to carry the tools to change it. 3. If your chain get's THAT bad, presumably you'll start noticing it ahead of time, and will be able to plan accordingly to get it replaced. You're going to need an oil change or 2 anyway...

Sometimes not planning is what makes it fun. But if you have a general idea on you're route, you might want to look for service shops that are within, say 50 miles of your checkpoints (or evening stay, or layover, etc....). This way, IF something is going or goes wrong, you have a general idea on where to go for help!

Duct Tape
Zip Ties
Lens Cleaner/Anti-Fogger
Extra Glasses/Sunglasses
Camera?
Motrin/Tylenol or similar
Lock and Cable?
Air Pressure Gauge

Remember to hydrate often! At every fuel stop, or pee break. Stretch out, and drink water.

Should be a blast. Enjoy!

 

Thank you, I forgot to mention the Camel Pak in my supplies. I have a GIVI top case that I'm going to have installed, just have to find the time to work that out. Tank bag and soft saddle bags as well. Camera will be for sure, contemplating the GO pro camera set up but $ will decide that for me as we get closer to the date. Keep the suggestions coming, and thanks in advance!!

 

Map Overview, seems far.

 

Just looked at your map. For your own sanity, try to get off the 4 lane slabs and ride the back roads. You won't regret it!

 

I'm sure the CO contingent would be happy to get you through our neck of the woods and into Utah using much sexier, and more direct routes than yawn inducing I-70; if you're interested? A few of us have already been talking about several in-state, overnight trips. If we can get our schedules to match-up, I'm sure there would be couple of us that could possibly join your group and ride the whole state into Canyon Lands UT or the general vicinity. If not, we can at least get you off of the beaten path and on to some great routes. CO is definitely worth it.

 

Sounds awesome, please keep in touch. We're flexible and open to adventure. As it gets closer, I will post the exact dates and schedule once we get it all mapped out. Thanks for the suggestion.