Seeking advice for first Long Trip...3500 miles summer 2010 - Motorcycle-Journal Forums

vtbme · 05-29-2009, 06:14 PM

So I have some sabbatical time coming my way and I'm thinking of spending some of it at Borderlands Ranch in South Dakota next summer. Considering timing that would put me cruising past Sturgis 1-2 weeks before the rally (don't really think I want to be in that madness). From there I might head to a music festival around the Great Lakes, plus assorted stops before heading back to NC.

Lodging - as I look at the map, I realize I know a few folks in several states who might put me up for a night or two. I'll try to avoid camping as I don't have much experience, will probably be traveling alone and don't want to carry that extra gear.

Hopefully I will purchase something in the 800-900 before the end of this year and start getting comfy with it.

Things I figure I'll need for the new bike:
*windscreen
*grip heaters (have these on the 250 and love them)
*saddle bags (maybe) - I have a Kuryakyn Grantour (doubles as back support) and Cargo Endurance Tank/Tail...and I don't might packing super light.
*cover
*rain gear
*gps

Those are just the basics. Oh and some Monkey Butt!

Took my longest one shot ride today...200 miles and it took me 8 hours

with 1 gas stop, 1 lunch stop, 1 water stop...and several turn-arounds and looking at the map stops. I'm pretty sure 8 hours will be my max and I plan to take backroads like today. I won't be in a hurry but I don't want it to seem like it will never end. But yikes...today's ride works out to 25mph average...there was some nasty construction and traffic in parts, but I thought I'd average about 35 with the stops! I don't know how you guys do those 12 days at 60+mph...hats off to ya.

So, I'm basically looking for any tips regarding a long trip and how to prepare/train. Thanks.