I want to head back to Seattle from N. Texas for my class reunion in mid October. I'm pretty sure that my wife won't be able to get the time off, so I've been pondering about riding up there. Mapquest says it's about 1977 miles one way. I guess my question is this: Should I do it and what kind of prep work would need to be done for me and the bike?

 

I would do a complete tune up before you leave for Seattle, then before you return to Texas I would do an oil change.

Kenny

 

take chain lube and maybe a qt of oil with you. maybe also a basic tool kit. Also I would highly recommend somethin to give your rump a bit of a break, I had my seats reupholstered by a local guy (60 bucks for both seats) and then also rigged up a vista cruise to give my wrist a break. I would recommend a cramp buster or something to give your wrist a break.

 

I would get a oil change, adjust chain if needed, and check the tire. As stated above take a quart of oil, chain lube and some basic tools. Make sure like every 300 miles check your tire/air. When you go back to N. Texas repeat step oil change, chain etc. Long rides like that by yourself is kinda boring so if you bring a iPod/mp3 player will help. Have a safe ride up to Seattle.

 

plus you'll be deaf if you don't have ear plugs or music of some kind

 

On short rides I don't wear ear plugs or use an ipod. I like to hear my exhaust and motor scream that's just me.

 

I also like to hear my exhaust on short or in town rides but if I'm going to be out all day, I'll have it with me because my ears start to hurt after about an hour. I'm still trying to figure out a way to bring it up to my wife that I want to ride up there.

 

I encourage you to do it. That being said, I've done these type of trips...& there's always things that occur that you don't expect or anticipate. If you've got an adventurous attitude, you'll take them in stride & enjoy yourself. Main thing about a trip like this is to allow yourself *plenty* of time to do it. If possible, I always build in at least an extra day or so on each leg on a long trip, just to allow myself time w/o feeling rushed. The added stress of being rushed really takes the fun out of things. So, make the extra time for the trip if you can.

Planning is a must. However, you don't want to drive yourself nuts w/ trying to figure out everything under the sun to take. Stick to basics. Remember, you'll have to drag around everything that you pack. Less can be more, if you know what I mean. Research other rider reports on the various forums for trip lists, pick out the things that you think will apply to you, & go from there.

Basically, try to pack as little as possible w/ the most benefit to you, & the kind of trip you are doing. Clothing really takes up space...so try to get by w/ as little as possible. Too, remember you can always ship a box to your location w/ stuff like this. I've done this & its quite handy.

As for supplies, on a trip like this, I'd take one of the flat tire repair kits. They are compact & really work. I saw one used just this past wknd on a tire that I thought there was no way could hold air but it did. That can be invaluable til you can get your bike to a proper repair shop or til you can get a new one. A tool kit has already been suggested & is a good idea. Chain-lube also is a good idea. A small can of Honda-polish or the like can be nice to have to clean off bugs from your visor, etc.

Naturally, you'll want your bike to be completely ready of course. Not required but I'd suggest new tires. 4k roundtrip is a long way & you'll want the peace of mind riding on new rubber & nice tread. Too, at that time of yr, from your location in TX to Seattle, you *WILL* encounter weather. You'll want a rainsuit & good quality bags. Additionally, some items I put in ziploc bags...ziplocs are invaluable on trips like this. They come in all sizes. You can keep your dirty clothes in them to keep the stink off the clean stuff as well. Also, you can compress the air out to make your bulk smaller.

You can couch-surf if you're not adverse to making friends. It never ceases to amaze me, the way folks will open their homes to fellow bikers & travelers. It can be a huge money-saver. If you were coming thru my area, I'd offer you a nice couch & secure garage for your bike/gear.

If possible, for a trip of that magnitude, get a membership w/ AAA. Many areas aren't necessarily covered by AAA coverage but I've seen AAA in the middle of nowhere USA helping riders when they've broken down. They'll arrange transport of your bike if its out of commission, help w/ lodging, etc. In this same realm, be sure you have a really good cell phone, one w/ gps all the better.

Another good idea is to set up a blog, like on blogger.com. If your phone has the capability, you can post progress & updates from your trip. That way, family & others can keep up w/ your general location along the trip, etc. If staying in motels, often times they'll let you use their computers for such postings when they only take a few moments.

I could go on. ;-D Simply, plan, plan, plan, but at the same time - be open to adventure & don't let yourself get rushed.

Happy trip planning!

 

For some reason I have a feeling your wife will want you to fly up there.

 

agreed on your wife flying, pass RR seats are about the most uncomfortable it gets lol and I suggested earphones for the wind noise at highway speeds, its deafening. I'm headed to the Madison, IN area this weekend from the NE corner of IN. It's my warm up trip for my gang's trip to Deal's next month.