^Yeah, I'm got family close to both major stops. So I should be fine. Plus AAA. But we all know how "reliable" they are.

 

Haha, you'll be stopping a lot early than that! 200 miles = ain't gonna happen

 

^I've got nonstop before fill ups before. Guess it just depends on the person/patience. I've done 5 hours before. Only stopping for gas. Wasn't too bad.

 

Are you going to be riding any at night? Reason I ask is b/c I had a headlight bulb burn out once at night on a trip. :O Made for an interesting evening, to say the least! ;-) Since then on trips, I carry a spare headlight bulb in my trunk area wrapped in bubblewrap. I use "CandlePower" brand www.candlepower.com ...its inexpensive & brighter than stock. Just a suggestion. ;-)

 

Not knowing your experience level w/ trip riding, I'm just throwing things out there. ;-) Here's another... Be sure to secure your gear extremely well. Those spider nets seem like they'd be good by themselves but they're not...make sure you use very good straps. Sure, you can still use the spider net but supplement securing your gear w/ straps. You don't want to lose your gear/load or have it shifting around while you ride.

 

I usually find if you've fitted a new chain, you can expect to have to adjust it 1st or 2nd time out After that, the next time it needs adjusted its time for another new one
Have a good trip

 

Please remember that your body is VERY fatigued after spending a lot of time on a motorcycle. Get a good night's rest before riding the Dragon, or ride it at a very relaxed pace. I'm sure you already know this and have accommodated accordingly, but it never hurts to say again. Have fun when the time comes!

 

Triple A is very reliable. Make sure you've got the motorcycle option. I've used them three times and they showed up within an hour. They'll tow within 100 miles--that's a long way.

You need a good tire kit. (That's why I had the tows--I stupidly forgot mine; twice.)
Good rain suit, not a cheap one, and rain covers for tailpack or whatever luggage you have.

You shouldn't need fluids like oil or coolant. The F4i will go forever without oil adds. Ditto chain lube. O-rings take care of it.


A Throttlemeister throttle lock would be an absolute must. You will really need the relief.

Be very cautious about long legs without getting off the bike. In September, I injured myself badly on my Triumph Sprint--similar riding postion--by overdoing it on a 12-hour ride without rest stops. Ten weeks of sheer hellish pain with a pinched neck nerve, just now resolving after weeks of physical therapy.

I could have avoided that with more rest stops and stretching.

--Paul

 

+1 to neck strain injury (had it and its not fun)

Remember to also pack your stuff in bags, like those 2 gal ziplock bags. if it does decide to rain on you, which it probly will, atleast you'll have dry clothes and other stuff. but seriously pack a rain suit. TRUST ME!!!

Also, let me know when ur in the cleveland area. i'll meet up with ya for a beer and some grub. i'm from solon so its not far at all.


-Pack whatever you might need but don't OVER DO IT. Think of the condom rule! Better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it.

 

Damn dude; you're hardcore... glad you're doing better.