tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26482581581899162572024-03-05T06:28:00.178-08:00Life on Two WheelsMy life on two wheels, either the ones with a motor, or the ones I have to pedal. Trips, gear, and miscellaneous.
Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.comBlogger210125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-18150238319710876172022-03-14T05:37:00.000-07:002022-03-14T05:37:41.973-07:00Longtime, No Post.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;">After a hiatus of almost five years……I’m back, back to the world of adventure motorcycles, and very excited about it. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Last year I started getting the itch for another bike. All my riding gear and helmets in the closet were calling out to me, time for some more two wheeled adventures.</p><p style="text-align: left;">So after Christmas I started to look for some new wheels. I loved my old Vstrom 1000, and regret selling the thing, it was stupid on my part. The Guzzi was great, but not for what I was using it for.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiTp1DMUgpP_Y8inilfSTHnQgqg5TxWK3kxQvYTzWKdlDa--h-qPXrKoIdy6ol3W9auvqIr-ebFt3VmE_vGhltGeYWrbC7Iv9X_Uut4KqPhS-mqI6Npg22YsJlofeTeFxtrSeF5f4RAOGzLrvjH2zF7C8zQWms-xC8almuvNi6NEhjevi6b3BxBZlbz6A=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1530" data-original-width="2048" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiTp1DMUgpP_Y8inilfSTHnQgqg5TxWK3kxQvYTzWKdlDa--h-qPXrKoIdy6ol3W9auvqIr-ebFt3VmE_vGhltGeYWrbC7Iv9X_Uut4KqPhS-mqI6Npg22YsJlofeTeFxtrSeF5f4RAOGzLrvjH2zF7C8zQWms-xC8almuvNi6NEhjevi6b3BxBZlbz6A=w453-h338" width="453" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;">There is a plethora of ADV bikes out there now, most are huge, 1000cc and up seems to be the norm these days. I know I didn’t want one of those. I fell in love with the Honda 300 Rally, but after some deep thought, as deep as I can get in my thoughts, I knew this was not the bike. I had a hard look at where I wanted to ride and how I wanted to ride. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZzVuHskQMiamySPoM737AzMtH_sPBYTI-o7GcHDT5oPp0AXVHBxdKPDgH9tp3Tux9sOyNEMlTUCMmdsFGcBDspFhCZ3rWnWJxYB1YnQ_cw18BS6hwfdOPVK9jbn6YmfbGjvYUS1NRvmHqaZvNWIMcndSH8VgEZC25RRUa_b7USukPDgYE3PqAxmoI4g=s1920" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZzVuHskQMiamySPoM737AzMtH_sPBYTI-o7GcHDT5oPp0AXVHBxdKPDgH9tp3Tux9sOyNEMlTUCMmdsFGcBDspFhCZ3rWnWJxYB1YnQ_cw18BS6hwfdOPVK9jbn6YmfbGjvYUS1NRvmHqaZvNWIMcndSH8VgEZC25RRUa_b7USukPDgYE3PqAxmoI4g=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">The majority of my riding would be back roads, highway and gravel roads. As much as pictured myself trail riding, I knew that was not going to happen too often. Reliability, ease of maintenance are important, more important than character. Character and reliability seldom go hand and hand.</p><p style="text-align: left;">The bike for me was going to be comfortable, not too big, good to commute on, good to take on multi day trips to far away places, be good on gas, and not cost me a fortune to buy. If you are thinking it sounds like a Honda, then you’d be right. Always been a fan of Big Red.</p><p style="text-align: left;">About six or eight years ago I sat on a CB500X at a dealership in the States. I was on a work trip killing time, and we had hit the local bike shop. It was the first 500X I had seen. I threw a leg over it, and my initial impression was “wow, this seems really comfortable for a small bike” That was it though, never really thought much about it after that.</p><p style="text-align: left;">After ruling out the 300 Rally, I kept poking around the Honda website, under the Adventure bike tab, I noticed the 500X. “Hmmm, kinda like a mini Africa Twin, at half the price” Further research was required.</p><p style="text-align: left;">So, over the next week I scoured the internet for every print and video review of the bike, and for the most part the bike gets glowing reviews, especially the revised 2022 model. It’s a very underrated motorcycle that a lot of riders ignore, and pass over because of it’s displacement.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQW3LeSckNq6X957hNWrGPBsdCvm994Jb3P_qSQg598dydmDETn3hkjYa4S_-ic0dyG-400ZfJG7wSpmwjQTh9LzNvxoS_9Q2JpWPcX4KiogEDygZHGPd3LqsjSrfip76lP5guysrJx0G7RvvxZb8k8y2cLxnC1LCukUC5A5mT4l5dLBDIdHVdxpLTCQ=s1000" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="867" data-original-width="1000" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQW3LeSckNq6X957hNWrGPBsdCvm994Jb3P_qSQg598dydmDETn3hkjYa4S_-ic0dyG-400ZfJG7wSpmwjQTh9LzNvxoS_9Q2JpWPcX4KiogEDygZHGPd3LqsjSrfip76lP5guysrJx0G7RvvxZb8k8y2cLxnC1LCukUC5A5mT4l5dLBDIdHVdxpLTCQ=w433-h375" width="433" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;">I won’t bore you with all the details of what’s changed on the bike for this year, there could be a future owners review to come shortly.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I was like “shit man, this bike ticks all the boxes” I trudged down to my local dealer. I’m not a fan of them, I’ve seen happier people in a morgue or funeral home. But for the sake of looking it did the job. They happened to have a leftover 2021, and a new ‘22 model on the showroom floor. Loved the new ‘22 model. It did look like a mini Africa Twin. Some people actually call it the Halfrica Twin. Threw a leg over it, and right away felt at home. Very much like my old Vstrom in a smaller friendlier package.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I briefly talked to a salesman who seemed to know less about the bike than I did, and really showed almost no interest in selling something, even after I told him I was planning on buying within the next month. I figured I’d at least give them a chance before going else where. In the words of Youtuber Ozzyman, “ya, nah”</p><p style="text-align: left;">I quickly fired off an email to my prefered and Zac Kurylyk approved Honda/KTM dealer inquiring about availability of a 500X, and within an hour they responded with, yup, we have 3, two are on hold and there is a red one available. I wrote back, slide my $200 deposit on the Monkey Bike over to the 500X. Ya, a Monkey Bike, that’s another story for later.</p><p style="text-align: left;">So with spring in the air and the snow almost all gone I’m hoping to go pick this up soon. Planning a trip up to the dealer to have another look and get the buying process started.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Plans for this year…local rides, and the Fundy Adventure Rally reunion in September. That should be fun. If time allows I’d like to do a 2-3 day trip around the province later this fall</p><p style="text-align: left;">Next time will be my initial impressions of the bike, and what accessories I’m leaning towards.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-54312355588497455292017-06-23T13:09:00.000-07:002017-06-23T13:09:19.867-07:00Speedy WheelsIt's been awhile since I updated here. Not a lot going on with regards to all things two-wheeled with a motor. The poor Guzzi has been collecting dust in the garage since getting back from New Jersey in May.<br />
<br />
Lately I have been spending a lot more time in hotel rooms than at home. Work has been crazy busy and somehow I have ended up on the "being gone for a week at a time"cycle, and not a motorcycle.<br />
<br />
Oh, and we haven't exactly had the best spring weather wise. It's been cool, rainy and foggy. Kinda like my bike ride to New Jersey this year. Those rare nice days that we did have were taken up with backyard renovations. A necessary evil if you want the missus off your back in the summer so you're free to ride, surf, windsurf, etc.<br />
<br />
If you remember my back tire on the Goose was toast after the Jersey trip. I wouldn't dare ride on it further than the bike shop to get it replaced.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e9OpjcvdTA0/WR1xtRaIWqI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/-WovsYUkn3sIDCkgsLOnUKBP6hm1yRKLgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_20170518_065914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e9OpjcvdTA0/WR1xtRaIWqI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/-WovsYUkn3sIDCkgsLOnUKBP6hm1yRKLgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/IMG_20170518_065914.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My buddy Tim owns MotoSport Plus, the Yamaha, Suzuki dealer, and he was able to get me a new Pirelli Sport Demon at a smokin' deal. Thanks Timmy.<br />
<br />
Yesterday was a real nice day, sunny and 25C so I finally got around to dropping the Goose off at MSP. I never had an appointment so I figured it would be an all day affair, thinking the service techs would replace the tire when they got a chance. I rode the bike around the back of the shop, and they told me to take it right in the service bay. Sweet.<br />
<br />
Lucky enough the service tech had worked on Guzzi's before and was familiar with the shaft drive and what was involved in taking the wheel off. Sweeter.<br />
<br />
One of the salesmen, Scott asked me if I'd be interested in taking out a GSX-S1000F instead of waiting around. So let me think.........instead of hanging around the showroom, even though it is filled with lots of nice bikes to look and sit on, I could go out and enjoy this beauty of day on rocketship with wheels. Ummm. YA!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UYnvxcZo_lk/WU10Vfi0QYI/AAAAAAAAFFM/zJlcTzGPNYU2P7T4MEkStCf5Du7E4pYaACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170622_100308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UYnvxcZo_lk/WU10Vfi0QYI/AAAAAAAAFFM/zJlcTzGPNYU2P7T4MEkStCf5Du7E4pYaACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_20170622_100308.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
It's been quite awhile since I rode anything other than a V-twin. This fire breathing 4-cylinder that has, you guessed it 999cc, putting out 145hp and 78ft/lbs of torque. All that power hauling a measly 472lbs across the tarmac.<br />
<br />
I would never had admitted to Scott, but I was a little intimidated by this thing. The Vstrom 1000 had a smudge under 100hp, and it by no means was fast. The Goose has a whopping 50hp, it's a torquey little thing, but it by no means will get you in trouble.<br />
<br />
I threw my leg over the bike, and quickly realized that this was not your typical sport bike. To be completely honest I knew next to nothing about the bike. Read a small article about it a couple of years ago when Rob Harris of CMG test rode it. The GSX is not my typical kinda ride.<br />
<br />
I was expecting typical sport bike ergos. But when I grabbed the handlebars I quickly noticed that one, they weren't clip ons, and two they were in a comfortable position. The foot pegs were also comfortably placed. I wasn't hunched up with my feet under my arse. It was a sporty position but<br />
comfortable.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-agP3rksfk-s/WU10VZyi-5I/AAAAAAAAFFE/y4Pa2AZl0Tswc1zZ2MlV-HC1QsUYtQ3OgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170622_100254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-agP3rksfk-s/WU10VZyi-5I/AAAAAAAAFFE/y4Pa2AZl0Tswc1zZ2MlV-HC1QsUYtQ3OgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_20170622_100254.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The GSX has ABS and selectable levels of traction control. I didn't play with it, or get an explanation of how it works. I cycled through the settings with the mode controller next to the left handgrip and figured out Level 3 was max TCS, so I left it there. I believe they call that the wimpy rider, or rain mode.<br />
<br />
I pushed the starter and the four cylinders roared to life. It didn't really roar, the bike is pretty quiet, it does have a pretty mean low key rumble coming from the stock pipe that announces to the world that this thing can haul the mail.<br />
<br />
I tentatively rode across the parking lot, and pulled out into the busy traffic of Rothesay Avenue. The bike was comfortable right from the get go, however shifting from 1st to 2nd was lurchy. If that's even a word. At first I was wondering if it was me getting used to clutch sensitivity or what I thought was an overly sensitive throttle. It didn't take much twisting of the wrist to get the ponies going.<br />
<br />
Other than that first to second gear lurchiness it was quite easy to ride at slow speed in city traffic. The bike felt light and maneuverable, as I weaved myself through the two lanes of traffic.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tRO_qq6upj8/WU10WVHfkOI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/h8by-xqqcXYGp31VPrA_zELq8rvgwHjmACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20170622_100334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tRO_qq6upj8/WU10WVHfkOI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/h8by-xqqcXYGp31VPrA_zELq8rvgwHjmACEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_20170622_100334.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I headed out to Mispec Beach, it's a nice quiet, twisty road that has it's share of bumps, and potholes. Good way to see how the suspension works. The Gixxer soaked up the worst of the bumps and never really lost it's composure, although the pace wasn't fast. There were no jarring impacts, not like some of the ones I have had on the Goose.<br />
<br />
The whole time I had been riding this thing I had the feeling that I was trying the restrain a fire breathing dragon. The Gixxer wanted to run, and run fast.<br />
<br />
I hit the onramp to the Mackay Highway and let the ponies go, fack!!!!! this thing goes. It reminded me of my old CBR600F4, but a whole lot faster. The acceleration was crazy, and I could see getting addicted to this very fast. Even in 6th gear cruising on the highway, a quick twist of the throttle leapfrogs this thing from a sedate law abiding 120 to 180 in a heartbeat. Literally.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TNuwJVWP53w/WU10WTTa3pI/AAAAAAAAFFU/i0B2ueYZAAk9ncfIxSZsO-gmFmI-XmQPgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20170622_100346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TNuwJVWP53w/WU10WTTa3pI/AAAAAAAAFFU/i0B2ueYZAAk9ncfIxSZsO-gmFmI-XmQPgCEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_20170622_100346.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After about an hour what really surprised me the most was how comfortable and user friendly this bike was. The soul of super bike with realistic, comfortable ergos. The small windscreen provided pretty good protection too, and no helmet buffeting at highway speeds.<br />
<br />
Throw some luggage on this bad boy, and you've got a pretty decent sport touring bike.<br />
<br />
Would I buy one? Nah, it's just not me anymore. I'm too old for that kinda shit now. I like the slow life now. I was pretty happy to get back on the Guzzi again.<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-36946349040581901572017-05-22T10:09:00.002-07:002017-05-22T10:36:47.888-07:00RIP Nicky HaydenSad news today in the world of motorcycle racing. #69 The Kentucky Kid, Nicky Hayden has passed away days after a horrible cycling accident in Italy.<br />
<br />
Condolences to all his family, friends, and fans.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo4y4iJMeWs/WSMhoW6LzWI/AAAAAAAAFEc/WgLm3wZw_QUCMrPGuvWkCnwv0GAjE5KSQCLcB/s1600/DAcpfUjXUAkzH7u.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo4y4iJMeWs/WSMhoW6LzWI/AAAAAAAAFEc/WgLm3wZw_QUCMrPGuvWkCnwv0GAjE5KSQCLcB/s400/DAcpfUjXUAkzH7u.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7peKj4-N0M/WSMbIfm5UGI/AAAAAAAAFEM/WDHu1EzKSek4WF5ICUuaqYd_5fXroyK4wCLcB/s1600/5f66fbf3f2162f0f730f6a706700a16e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7peKj4-N0M/WSMbIfm5UGI/AAAAAAAAFEM/WDHu1EzKSek4WF5ICUuaqYd_5fXroyK4wCLcB/s640/5f66fbf3f2162f0f730f6a706700a16e.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-827205214922452982017-05-21T09:18:00.000-07:002017-05-21T09:18:42.905-07:00Tale of Two RidersI'm gonna keep this short this week, it's about two riders, one, you most likely don't know, having a ball on a trip of lifetime, and the other, a talented, well loved motorcycle racer fighting for his life in a hospital bed.<br />
<br />
Pete sent me a text the other day with a couple of pictures attached. They were of his friend, John Galloway, on a trip of a lifetime in Vietnam. I've met John a couple of times, used to own an R6, and then was inspired by the lure of adventure and went out and bought a lightly used BMW 700GS, from another mutual friend and neighbour Jen.<br />
<br />
John is currently in Vietnam riding a 125cc scooter around<br />
exploring what looks like an amazing country.<br />
<br />
Oh, and he is rocking a Bigland Adventures t-shirt too. Might be the closest I come to ever getting there.<br />
<br />
I'm gonna see if John can write something up about his adventures to post up here for your reading enjoyment.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DR33RmO3ru4/WSG17KuWHRI/AAAAAAAAFDk/dbHfbtxg5RAt-G-CgetnlhkbUCs8NA2SACLcB/s1600/IMG_5865_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DR33RmO3ru4/WSG17KuWHRI/AAAAAAAAFDk/dbHfbtxg5RAt-G-CgetnlhkbUCs8NA2SACLcB/s640/IMG_5865_0.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qMYC6kmJWb0/WSG17BbQ1EI/AAAAAAAAFDo/6CSFkhXouTALI4R89Sq1hzpTMidwEQS5QCLcB/s1600/IMG_0951_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qMYC6kmJWb0/WSG17BbQ1EI/AAAAAAAAFDo/6CSFkhXouTALI4R89Sq1hzpTMidwEQS5QCLcB/s640/IMG_0951_0.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On a more sombre note, one of the world's most talented road racers Nicky Hayden was severely injured in a bicycle accident in Italy this week, after being struck by car. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn37WMQ1B5Q/WSG6nzf1B3I/AAAAAAAAFD4/kG9LOSDwxBE1rQFztBZH9VTtTv9rV1YsgCLcB/s1600/DACgvZaXsAAmwzV.jpg-large.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn37WMQ1B5Q/WSG6nzf1B3I/AAAAAAAAFD4/kG9LOSDwxBE1rQFztBZH9VTtTv9rV1YsgCLcB/s640/DACgvZaXsAAmwzV.jpg-large.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've followed Nicky off and on throughout his career, especially when he was coming up behind Miguel Duhamel on the Honda team in the AMA 600 series. The Kentucky Kid won pretty much everything on American soil and went on to a successful career in MotoGP. Recently he had just made the jump to World Superbike. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-heLIZbDgaeY/WSG6n3q_4zI/AAAAAAAAFD0/4J6kM6XWXbkLiT3wHhuM7wP9-tU9DeHwwCLcB/s1600/Nicky-Hayden-MotoGP-942281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-heLIZbDgaeY/WSG6n3q_4zI/AAAAAAAAFD0/4J6kM6XWXbkLiT3wHhuM7wP9-tU9DeHwwCLcB/s640/Nicky-Hayden-MotoGP-942281.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nicky comes from a big family of racers, inheriting the famous number 69 from his Dad. He chose 69 because you could still read the number when the bike was upside down in the ditch. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last report was Nicky was in very critical condition with a severe brain injury.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There has been an outpouring of well wishes from fans and almost everyone in motorsport. This weekend all the Nascar drivers put a 69 sticker on their cars to show support for Nicky and the family. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We are hopefully of a full recovery, but this is eerily similar to another tragic accident with another famous racer. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HOuKFH_ZzsQ" width="560"></iframe></div>
Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-64982407687951045312017-05-18T03:25:00.000-07:002017-05-18T03:25:33.910-07:00The Butt BurnerAll week in Joisey I had been keeping a keen eye on the weather. It had been nice here, sunny skies for the most part, but that beeatch Mother Nature wasn't done with me as far as staying dry on a motorcycle.<br />
<br />
I had hoped to take a leisurely two day ride home. Leaving on Saturday and possibly stopping for the night at my cousins place outside of Augusta.<br />
<br />
Yet again an intense rainstorm was bearing down on the east coast. Rain was forecasted too begin early Saturday and intensify throughout the day to heavy rain. Not ideal riding conditions when your back tire was on it's last km's. I figured I had enough tread left to get me home, but didn't want to push it riding in standing water.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I6VDPuUsATA/WR1rm07cuZI/AAAAAAAAFBQ/gQVcjqhmsGg6oKwfv1FWrcRwPxhFYjA_gCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170511_100859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I6VDPuUsATA/WR1rm07cuZI/AAAAAAAAFBQ/gQVcjqhmsGg6oKwfv1FWrcRwPxhFYjA_gCLcB/s400/IMG_20170511_100859.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>If the hotel had just been 1km further away</i></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSXPq9bfBog/WR1rnC6_dyI/AAAAAAAAFBU/JT-ncHt6tnI_SKF7ebMKWpit4FrFDrd6QCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170511_110333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSXPq9bfBog/WR1rnC6_dyI/AAAAAAAAFBU/JT-ncHt6tnI_SKF7ebMKWpit4FrFDrd6QCLcB/s400/IMG_20170511_110333.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
So the plan was hatched to head out in the wee hours of Saturday morning and stay ahead of the worst of it. Unfortunately my simulator schedule had us finishing Friday at 8pm, and an escape from the NY area at that time of day appealed less to me than the early morning option.<br />
<br />
My week at FlightSafety had been good, one of the better training sessions I've had in awhile. Ground school was pretty laid back, and our sim instructor Vladimir (the former Aeroflot pilot) worked us hard in the sim, making the four hour sessions go by at fever pitch. I was a little disappointed with the lack of vodka shooters during the debriefs. Pretty sure that was Russian tradition. I'll cut the guy some slack, he was after all from Kazakhstan. Watching the "Long Way Round" paid off, Vlad was impressed I knew about his hometown of Almaty and Magadan in Siberia, where he was based with Aeroflot for 15 years.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G1upznFxAlY/WR1tQQ8114I/AAAAAAAAFCk/V3jA7E0zrQkEPhMRFbl3J3PXkZXWzrf7ACLcB/s1600/aeroflot-a320-aeroflot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G1upznFxAlY/WR1tQQ8114I/AAAAAAAAFCk/V3jA7E0zrQkEPhMRFbl3J3PXkZXWzrf7ACLcB/s640/aeroflot-a320-aeroflot.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dTwGQxoeU7I/WR1tQUparOI/AAAAAAAAFCc/gdyTDZrYV9Mi1hi347Lb_ysfMDvSH0kmgCLcB/s1600/aeroflot-flight-attendants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dTwGQxoeU7I/WR1tQUparOI/AAAAAAAAFCc/gdyTDZrYV9Mi1hi347Lb_ysfMDvSH0kmgCLcB/s640/aeroflot-flight-attendants.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Aeroflot doesn't look too bad to me.</i></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qx3kO1ui9sk/WR1tQW45j3I/AAAAAAAAFCg/bXXk2d9_1qc-2GikPeYR2EMsXHBmz2xiwCLcB/s1600/magadan-a-mask-grieve-a-monument-subjected-to-repression-in-days-of-A4XC3K.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qx3kO1ui9sk/WR1tQW45j3I/AAAAAAAAFCg/bXXk2d9_1qc-2GikPeYR2EMsXHBmz2xiwCLcB/s640/magadan-a-mask-grieve-a-monument-subjected-to-repression-in-days-of-A4XC3K.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Magadan</i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
Saturday morning my alarm rudely woke me up at 0330. Thing were a little foggy. Maybe I shouldn't have had that fourth Sam Adams last night. I peered out the window to see a black sheen on the parking lot. The rain had begun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HveMREVXrKk/WR1rzVZmw3I/AAAAAAAAFCU/fa5GISyBKBEyrm10Krht3UEbl05x8kQlACEw/s1600/DSCF7101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HveMREVXrKk/WR1rzVZmw3I/AAAAAAAAFCU/fa5GISyBKBEyrm10Krht3UEbl05x8kQlACEw/s640/DSCF7101.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I quickly checked the weather radar and figured I should be in the clear around Westchester, not too far away.<br />
<br />
Exiting the elevator, I was greeted with remnants of last nights wedding at the hotel. About a dozen or so highly lubricated revellers were in the lobby to see me off on my journey. So nice of them to stay up past their bedtime.<br />
<br />
I loaded up the Guzzi, and under light rain and darkness headed out for what was going to be a long day in the saddle.<br />
<br />
The road was wet as I made my way to the I95, light rain was falling and the droplets obscured my vision through the visor. I hate riding in the rain, and in the darkness. I felt awkward this morning, like my balance was off a bit. Not sure if Sam Adams had something to do with this or I was just being overly cautious on the wet roads. My back tire was pretty worn which concerned me.<br />
<br />
At 4am there's not a lot of traffic, even for the NYC area. It was like home........in the middle of the day.<br />
<br />
My route this morning would take me across the George Washington Bridge and it's wallet liberating $15 toll. That went a little smoother than the last toll booth. Even at 4am the girl at the booth managed a smile, or was it a smirk.<br />
<br />
I took the first right off the bridge onto the Henry Hudson Parkway. It's a four lane divided highway, with a 45-55mph speed limit. Best thing........no transport trucks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hx3nrTS-T2Q/WR1t4LAiAII/AAAAAAAAFCw/4CD0hkC7QPUaL0EFoaLyfHcSlXBKYz-mgCLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-17%2Bat%2B9.16.41%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hx3nrTS-T2Q/WR1t4LAiAII/AAAAAAAAFCw/4CD0hkC7QPUaL0EFoaLyfHcSlXBKYz-mgCLcB/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-17%2Bat%2B9.16.41%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For the most part it was quiet as well, but as luck would have it a cabbie who seemed to be texting, with the interior light on had decided that he was gonna take his half of the road..... out of the middle. Hell, maybe he was drunk and figured if he kept to the white line in the middle he'd be safe. Makes sense, I guess, and keeps you out of the ditch. I decided that keeping a safe distance away from him was the best course of action.<br />
<br />
Before long Mr. Cab managed to negotiate an exit ramp, and was no longer my problem.<br />
<br />
The Hudson Parkway turned into the Cross County and then the Merritt, it was easy to follow, and I'm sure it would have been quite scenic if it wasn't for the darkness of the wee morning hours.<br />
<br />
The rain finally let up around the Sanford, Ct. area. It was still cool though, and my hands were getting cold despite my warm gloves, and at the next rest stop pulled over and got out my heated glove liners.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kCmfK0dM81s/WR1r0PyfsJI/AAAAAAAAFCU/PDiss2N2XEI1usqvbCdu_A6ONmrScdt2ACEw/s1600/DSCF7105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kCmfK0dM81s/WR1r0PyfsJI/AAAAAAAAFCU/PDiss2N2XEI1usqvbCdu_A6ONmrScdt2ACEw/s640/DSCF7105.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHleVE5hk4I/WR1rzvhkjPI/AAAAAAAAFCU/f7jXMOmnhDMoaH4e3kwFoHCkvgeeoNLggCEw/s1600/DSCF7102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHleVE5hk4I/WR1rzvhkjPI/AAAAAAAAFCU/f7jXMOmnhDMoaH4e3kwFoHCkvgeeoNLggCEw/s640/DSCF7102.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uhoUnNqbNj8/WR1rzm1zQAI/AAAAAAAAFCU/xowdHbewcOEAD5i4JmtNBwCrPwZeM_rPwCEw/s1600/DSCF7103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uhoUnNqbNj8/WR1rzm1zQAI/AAAAAAAAFCU/xowdHbewcOEAD5i4JmtNBwCrPwZeM_rPwCEw/s640/DSCF7103.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It seemed like daylight was fighting to come along. The low overcast made it darker than normal and my headlight was still illuminating the road in front of the bike.<br />
<br />
Despite having only one cup of coffee just after I awoke, I pushed on with a dangerously low caffeine /blood level. Just south of Hartford I exited the Merritt Parkway (Route 15) for the I91, and then the I84 into Mass. Not my ideal roads for travel, but I had to make some distance today.<br />
<br />
Other than the early morning truck traffic it wasn't bad going.<br />
<br />
Back to that caffeine/blood level. I pulled into one of those Interstate Service Centres, there was a sign for McD's and that was good enough for me. I fuelled the Guzzi, and then myself. Dining to a gourmet Egg McMuffin and small black coffee.<br />
<br />
I'd like to spin exciting tales of adventure on the trip home, even meeting some interesting characters, but alas there were none. Just Guzzi and I droning along on the Interstate. The weather did improve, and I managed to put my sunglasses on for the first time. The temp hit a balmy 21C in Maine.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5bK_00X9TPI/WR1r0afhy9I/AAAAAAAAFCU/0P2DmY06prgrlaJOiHh2yNZ8fHWBoWYRACEw/s1600/DSCF7106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5bK_00X9TPI/WR1r0afhy9I/AAAAAAAAFCU/0P2DmY06prgrlaJOiHh2yNZ8fHWBoWYRACEw/s640/DSCF7106.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Just east of Portland, Me on another coffee/gas stop</i></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-chZaf5laWkM/WR1r04ww69I/AAAAAAAAFCU/ECEaOTGa2zsygkD6V_xIgQ7UBXdjt87zgCEw/s1600/DSCF7108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-chZaf5laWkM/WR1r04ww69I/AAAAAAAAFCU/ECEaOTGa2zsygkD6V_xIgQ7UBXdjt87zgCEw/s640/DSCF7108.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Off course as the temp went up, so did the bug population, and I was now being pummelled by all kinds of the winged annoyances. I do miss having a bigger windscreen to protect me from the kamikaze insects, and as always there's that one bug that hits your face shield just in the right spot. So you give it a flick with your finger, and the little F'er smears, making a big mess. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w3JkyJgn87s/WR1xs_C4UGI/AAAAAAAAFDE/7LOU8_aQm3wXCctrpXZLZ_s_Wi1-BWXMACLcB/s1600/IMG_20170518_065749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w3JkyJgn87s/WR1xs_C4UGI/AAAAAAAAFDE/7LOU8_aQm3wXCctrpXZLZ_s_Wi1-BWXMACLcB/s640/IMG_20170518_065749.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yrJhM7hS0Qg/WR1xtaPukHI/AAAAAAAAFDI/D0hNxkCp838v5ZiI_8Xp9rmy5NvhjCpWgCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170518_070212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yrJhM7hS0Qg/WR1xtaPukHI/AAAAAAAAFDI/D0hNxkCp838v5ZiI_8Xp9rmy5NvhjCpWgCLcB/s640/IMG_20170518_070212.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1tretzXNESg/WR1yuIQfwPI/AAAAAAAAFDU/MxgHDjphWsEkyUHGY6NJ3vL3nwkJeLUWACLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-18%2Bat%2B7.08.14%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1tretzXNESg/WR1yuIQfwPI/AAAAAAAAFDU/MxgHDjphWsEkyUHGY6NJ3vL3nwkJeLUWACLcB/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-18%2Bat%2B7.08.14%2BAM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-erEkNiU35DM/WR1r1uYJ_fI/AAAAAAAAFCU/9KKY9HesWq0YTkYHFBzqQBQBsIwtxTSHQCEw/s1600/DSCF7112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-erEkNiU35DM/WR1r1uYJ_fI/AAAAAAAAFCU/9KKY9HesWq0YTkYHFBzqQBQBsIwtxTSHQCEw/s640/DSCF7112.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iq4FWYKVsMI/WR1r1pq3TcI/AAAAAAAAFCU/YSJeWJNkhaUkNmvZgw6a5HjK-PIpq8g4QCEw/s1600/DSCF7113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iq4FWYKVsMI/WR1r1pq3TcI/AAAAAAAAFCU/YSJeWJNkhaUkNmvZgw6a5HjK-PIpq8g4QCEw/s640/DSCF7113.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ONFUt3TTewM/WR1r2aJy36I/AAAAAAAAFCU/nipgJS0ELLsTm82h27j_Xz0HRbzqrEMXACEw/s1600/DSCF7115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ONFUt3TTewM/WR1r2aJy36I/AAAAAAAAFCU/nipgJS0ELLsTm82h27j_Xz0HRbzqrEMXACEw/s640/DSCF7115.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Along Route 9 in Maine. Otherwise known as the Airline Route headed for the Canadian border</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Before I crossed back into Canada I stopped at the Duty Free shop. The missus need some tequila, because it's the season of the margarita. Booze is a quite a bit more expensive north of the border. Free health care and all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lRr1Y25QiXs/WR1r2QrXC6I/AAAAAAAAFCU/EYzLs7ZzcbkrxCygDK-v2t1QUyqgrZKGwCEw/s1600/DSCF7117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lRr1Y25QiXs/WR1r2QrXC6I/AAAAAAAAFCU/EYzLs7ZzcbkrxCygDK-v2t1QUyqgrZKGwCEw/s640/DSCF7117.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YlbeWTvW8lg/WR1r2p2VuMI/AAAAAAAAFCU/9fs9zn5zZ4Iquc4HWS80xeTbKW9yMuZRACEw/s1600/DSCF7118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YlbeWTvW8lg/WR1r2p2VuMI/AAAAAAAAFCU/9fs9zn5zZ4Iquc4HWS80xeTbKW9yMuZRACEw/s640/DSCF7118.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
For the most part the Guzzi is a pretty comfortable bike even with my 185cm, 83kg frame. Although my arse would not be able to take it without the Airhawk seat cushion. It's been a butt saver on many a trip and bike. However after 10hrs the body gets sore regardless, especially at 120-130kph. The wind beats you up despite the best efforts of Dart's Merlin windscreen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RsAkvny3TxQ/WR1xs1IXQ2I/AAAAAAAAFC8/QjnM5VMcaKgZHEUWqUJNk9JtY6Gx_UFOACEw/s1600/IMG_20170518_065824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RsAkvny3TxQ/WR1xs1IXQ2I/AAAAAAAAFC8/QjnM5VMcaKgZHEUWqUJNk9JtY6Gx_UFOACEw/s640/IMG_20170518_065824.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
11hrs and 20mins after I left the hotel in East Rutherford, I'm thankful to be pulling into my driveway at home. I was pretty knackered.<br />
<br />
My back tire was now completely shot, in hindsight I should have had it replaced when I was sitting in Jersey all week. I never realized how dangerously worn it would be by the time I got home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9OpjcvdTA0/WR1xtRaIWqI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/-scfYhaYjXw9qyLcTnvgN_ogKcmElztXACEw/s1600/IMG_20170518_065914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9OpjcvdTA0/WR1xtRaIWqI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/-scfYhaYjXw9qyLcTnvgN_ogKcmElztXACEw/s640/IMG_20170518_065914.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HlEj3m_PRDM/WR1xs8rRqWI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/HHQCk6o_h58OSdDvCAW3tdgIukAA8rCygCEw/s1600/IMG_20170518_065851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HlEj3m_PRDM/WR1xs8rRqWI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/HHQCk6o_h58OSdDvCAW3tdgIukAA8rCygCEw/s640/IMG_20170518_065851.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Overall it was a good trip, hopefully next year I can take a leisurely ride home, instead of the buttburner one day affair. It took me two days to recover.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been saying this for awhile now, but next year I may tack on a weeks vacation and take a spin down to Kentucky. My grandfather went to school in Berea, and I'd like to go visit. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-26390410056234367132017-05-16T05:02:00.000-07:002017-05-16T05:02:20.771-07:00One YearI'll continue the rest of my story on my journey to the Garden State a little later.<br />
<br />
One year ago today I was waking up in a hotel room in Danbury, CT. It was day three of my ride to Joisey. The previous day was gorgeous, sunny, warm, and I had just rode from Augusta, Maine through the White Mountains to get here. It was a beautiful scenic trip on some great roads, and I had thoroughly enjoyed my day on what was really my first touring trip on the Guzzi.<br />
<br />
It was a helluva way to spend my birthday. Only thing better would be to share my evening supper with my friends and family.<br />
<br />
I had just toasted my 47th year of life with a couple of Sam Adams and retired to my room, the fatigue of being on the bike all day was setting in.<br />
<br />
I did my usual brief surf around the inter web, double checked tomorrows weather, and the usual Facepage check in. That's when the euphoria of the day came to a crashing halt. Another rider friend of mine informed me of Rob Harris accident and passing.<br />
<br />
For the past year I have struggled with motorcycle ownership. A couple of times I have put the bike up for sale, only to take the ad down a few weeks later. I even had people wanting to buy my bike, but when push came to shove I couldn't.<br />
<br />
Rob was the first person I knew, since I was a teenager, to lose his life in a motorcycle accident. Like myself he was married with two daughters and for a long time I had issues with my own mortality and the thought of leaving my wife and girls without a husband and father.<br />
<br />
In fact it wasn't until my first ride on the bike this spring that my love for motorcycles returned. The desire to go on road trips, and find adventure was once again filling my brain.<br />
<br />
That first ride in April was when I got off the bike and decided that I would be riding to Jersey for sim training instead of taking a airline seat.<br />
<br />
Rob loved life, loved all things two wheeled and there is no way of knowing when your time is up. So may as well enjoy the things that make you happy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KXGcwqYAicg/WRrp_H1XFQI/AAAAAAAAFBA/jiv7im4xaPs9HedcwbfPAo2W8A7BCb5PQCLcB/s1600/11666187_10153349604390115_4355413029178581027_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KXGcwqYAicg/WRrp_H1XFQI/AAAAAAAAFBA/jiv7im4xaPs9HedcwbfPAo2W8A7BCb5PQCLcB/s640/11666187_10153349604390115_4355413029178581027_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-25567398521155659522017-05-10T07:50:00.000-07:002017-05-15T15:13:31.788-07:00Onward to JoiseyI woke up early on Sunday morning, a brightness was piercing through the crack in the blinds. Nah, couldn't be.......was that sun. Yes, fuckin' A it was. Today was looking better already.<br />
<br />
My enthusiasm was short lived however as the skies began to cloud over as I made my way through the Fairfield Inn's merger breakfast, it was included with the room price, so I shouldn't complain too loudly.<br />
<br />
By the time I loaded up the bike and got ready to depart, the gray skies were back, and it looked again as if rain was threatening.<br />
<br />
Today's ride was more of the same, backroads with short stints on the Interstate only when necessary. It was only a short ride too, just over 200km. Easy peasy after two long, wet days in the saddle.<br />
<br />
I headed west along a rural road out of Great Barrington to connect to the Taconic State Parkway. It's a divided four lane highway with a 55mph speed limit. Traffic was pretty much light to nil at this time of the morning, and it was nice not to have be constantly checking the mirrors for approaching cars all the time. I'm guessing most Massholes.....I mean residents of Mass were either sleeping or getting ready for prayer service.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yw-42s37f8k/WQ-IfQtYG7I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/n5FTJQd-f0Q3O32_JSrNKyRgRXia7repQCPcB/s1600/DSCF7068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yw-42s37f8k/WQ-IfQtYG7I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/n5FTJQd-f0Q3O32_JSrNKyRgRXia7repQCPcB/s640/DSCF7068.jpg" width="446" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jCJfNAMRnlE/WQ-Igdoc4RI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/TzfEzUlmTKI4CMXQ2esBX8K0CeVh7rS8ACPcB/s1600/DSCF7071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jCJfNAMRnlE/WQ-Igdoc4RI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/TzfEzUlmTKI4CMXQ2esBX8K0CeVh7rS8ACPcB/s640/DSCF7071.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
It wasn't long before I crossed into the Empire State. So far the rain had held off but I could see showers on the horizon. In fact the rain began to fall shortly after I was headed southbound on the Parkway. Just enough to soak all my gear before abating again. It would be the last of the rain today thankfully.<br />
<br />
My first stretch of Interstate was the I84 to cross the Hudson River depositing me in the City of Newburgh. I've been to Newburgh before, it has a bad reputation as being the eighth most dangerous city in the USA.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GRxgec2Bmc0/WQ-IgRb6MDI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/t4yTwgUyZhIQZ2Sv5r8vD18KWL8ly3HTACPcB/s1600/DSCF7072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GRxgec2Bmc0/WQ-IgRb6MDI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/t4yTwgUyZhIQZ2Sv5r8vD18KWL8ly3HTACPcB/s640/DSCF7072.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>This part of Newburgh has seen better days</i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
Exiting I84 I took the 9W, which makes it way through urban Newburgh, multiple stop lights and sketchy looking neighbourhoods. I wasn't too concerned at 9am on a Sunday. I reckon most of Newburgh's criminal elite were still in bed, or getting ready for church services as well.<br />
<br />
I figured if anyone gave me a second glance I'd rev the engine of the mighty Guzzi and squint my eyes in a gunslinger kinda way, give them my best Eastwood stare for a second, pop the clutch and get the hell out of there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ba5wPYY80t8/WQ-Ig8cbXaI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/eoR8M9ZZJrEhdOvM8bfhRux8oi-vbmlZgCPcB/s1600/DSCF7074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ba5wPYY80t8/WQ-Ig8cbXaI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/eoR8M9ZZJrEhdOvM8bfhRux8oi-vbmlZgCPcB/s640/DSCF7074.jpg" width="614" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Just outside of Newburgh the sun made an appearance. On the other side of the Hudson River.</i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
After a few more nervous miles I was back in a comfortable more rural setting cruising along at 80kph. Before you get to West Point, there's a beautiful section of road that climbs up a big hill. Descending the backside is awesome, nice sweeping corners and an incredible view of the Hudson River Valley. It reminds me of sections of the Cabot Trail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQHUZAoqw28/WRMh8KRYP5I/AAAAAAAAFAA/nwQydOYnEegqvXyajX66uBJMvrWCyMG5QCLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-10%2Bat%2B9.28.41%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQHUZAoqw28/WRMh8KRYP5I/AAAAAAAAFAA/nwQydOYnEegqvXyajX66uBJMvrWCyMG5QCLcB/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-10%2Bat%2B9.28.41%2BAM.png" width="598" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The 9W then turns into the 202, which runs through Bear Mountain State Park. Another beautiful section of road, which for the most part had very little traffic. The road is a little rough in places and it has a lot of cyclists. I mean a lot, they ride in packs and not necessarily in single file either. Some of them in the middle of the lane doing their best doped up on EPO Lance Armstrong impression.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z04r4k_rJ2E/WRMhGcYptuI/AAAAAAAAE_4/GG2zcpE9q5wi6kcyPq2hz6iBJEzoFhh7wCEw/s1600/DSCF9004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z04r4k_rJ2E/WRMhGcYptuI/AAAAAAAAE_4/GG2zcpE9q5wi6kcyPq2hz6iBJEzoFhh7wCEw/s640/DSCF9004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UH-QEFT64Js/WRMhGVKhUVI/AAAAAAAAE_w/t42MdJT9bQYP7bpmB8Q8t3wiscBcTKjvACEw/s1600/DSCF9007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UH-QEFT64Js/WRMhGVKhUVI/AAAAAAAAE_w/t42MdJT9bQYP7bpmB8Q8t3wiscBcTKjvACEw/s640/DSCF9007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UvOaT2SXLZE/WRMhGX2zAWI/AAAAAAAAE_0/ooyV1uP6jBYWVXb9COo0ynjdHr4BdQ_8wCEw/s1600/DSCF9014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UvOaT2SXLZE/WRMhGX2zAWI/AAAAAAAAE_0/ooyV1uP6jBYWVXb9COo0ynjdHr4BdQ_8wCEw/s640/DSCF9014.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>These are from two years ago, on my last big trip on the Strom. Weather was much nicer.</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Off the 202 Garmin took me on an interesting urban/residential road to get me over to the Palisades Interstate (more of a parkway than an Interstate). Wayne Road/Main Street, was a curvy, hilly route through some nice, eclectic neighbourhoods. It was slow 25-30mph, but fun. I guess it's popular with the bikers down here because I passed more motorcyclists on this stretch than I had the whole trip.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LsGaCSrhTXI/WRMiFFp1FCI/AAAAAAAAFAE/vbbErA8WF2wQIq_QCgGlAOByE8wbZIHHwCLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-10%2Bat%2B9.29.19%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LsGaCSrhTXI/WRMiFFp1FCI/AAAAAAAAFAE/vbbErA8WF2wQIq_QCgGlAOByE8wbZIHHwCLcB/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-10%2Bat%2B9.29.19%2BAM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The Palisades Parkway took me to the I287 for quick jaunt to the New York State Thruway which changes to the Garden State Thruway when,...... ya you guessed it, it crosses into Joisey.<br />
<br />
It's getting close to 10am and traffic volume has noticeably picked up, and my caffeine level has noticeably plummeted.<br />
<br />
I pulled into a highway rest stop and had a Starbucks and something eat. I only had another 35km to go, but it would be the most intense of the trip with all the traffic.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGVOD7iRmlI/WQ-IhNSzYLI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/h-AS9EbBWfoxjYvgJeOIwx6rNJt670oaACPcB/s1600/DSCF7075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGVOD7iRmlI/WQ-IhNSzYLI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/h-AS9EbBWfoxjYvgJeOIwx6rNJt670oaACPcB/s640/DSCF7075.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The one thing I really enjoy about the Guzzi, is most people have no idea what it is, and those that do, either ride one, or have ridden them, and they are quite passionate about the brand.<br />
<br />
I had just dismounted the bike when an older gentleman who reminded me of this guy,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3-dcA50LQs/WRMl-fvvzSI/AAAAAAAAFAc/ygzIQ0ZmCPopqMB6Kt2dZPpc2zCcha0EwCLcB/s1600/carini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3-dcA50LQs/WRMl-fvvzSI/AAAAAAAAFAc/ygzIQ0ZmCPopqMB6Kt2dZPpc2zCcha0EwCLcB/s200/carini.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
came up to admire the bike. He told me he owned a few Guzzi's in the past. He raced for Yamaha for awhile, but said he always loved the Italian and German bikes. Something sexy about them he said. I'd have to agree. I'll touch on that a little later.<br />
<br />
Once I was refuelled I continued on the Garden State, before a very brief run on I80, which required a $1.50 toll. Oh, and for some reason I wasn't expecting that toll, it took me by surprise. Of course earlier I took my toll money out of my tank bag and put in my pants pocket, which is zipped.<br />
<br />
Fuckin' toll booths, sometimes I feel like I'm a turtle stuck on it's back at these damn things. Timing it so that I can roll up in neutral so I can have two hands free to awkwardly unzip the side pocket of pants, fish out a couple of american bills that are all the same colour, not really knowing how much you have in the balled up mess of money in your hand, as you pass it to the bored, and equally unimpressed toll collector. All the while doing this with thick winter riding gloves because the temp has been above 10C. Then you have the impatient asshole cager behind you honking on the horn.........FUCK OFF!<br />
<br />
With my toll paid to the great state of New Jersey I sped off to again exit the interstate a few hundred meters away. JC.<br />
<br />
I'm now on the 17 which takes me directly to my hotel. It's a very busy six lane divided road/highway, where everyone is changing lanes, speeding, texting, talking, applying makeup, etc, in a vain attempt to be the first one to win the race to the next red light. I hate it. Always alert to the Suburban deciding he wants the space I am currently occupying, or the woman in the Impala coming up behind me at a high rate of speed while I'm stopped at light. It requires constant attention and I'm always trying to find a semi-safe escape route.<br />
<br />
It is short lived and I am glad to be pulling into the parking lot of the hotel. I can rest, and Guzzi gets a break for the next week, before we take the long trip home again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-22_91buIwkM/WRMie59fyLI/AAAAAAAAFAI/WobBn9ou2cAYTgaQXChuVVgmeV8WgXTCACLcB/s1600/IMG_20170507_111235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-22_91buIwkM/WRMie59fyLI/AAAAAAAAFAI/WobBn9ou2cAYTgaQXChuVVgmeV8WgXTCACLcB/s640/IMG_20170507_111235.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01ley0k9Wmc/WRooAPnPmCI/AAAAAAAAFAw/2gqZ2cyk0ksK7m5nE_OGL3uxOlS3Ak-RACLcB/s1600/IMG_20170507_125837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01ley0k9Wmc/WRooAPnPmCI/AAAAAAAAFAw/2gqZ2cyk0ksK7m5nE_OGL3uxOlS3Ak-RACLcB/s400/IMG_20170507_125837.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
In the past I have written numerous posts about other motorcycles, what's the best, what's the perfect bike.....is there one? Someone commented that the perfect bike is the one in the garage right now.<br />
<br />
He's right. The more I ride the Guzzi, the more I love it. For a physically small motorcycle it is very comfortable. With nothing more than a windshield and an Airhawk seat cushion I can ride in comfort all day. I don't like the Interstates, but the V7 will cruise happily at 120kph. It won't be as comfortable as a say a BMW 1200RT, but it will do it. I like the backroads, and that is where the little bike shines in my opinion.<br />
<br />
The V7 ticks all the boxes for me. Small, maneuverable, easy to ride, highway capable, lots of character, easy to work on, different and affordable. Oh and it sounds awesome.<br />
<br />
<b><i>So there.</i></b><br />
<br />
I'm here in Joisey until Saturday morning. My last simulator session is from 4-8pm on Friday. Awesome time to leave the NYC area. Not. Plan is to leave oh dark and early Saturday morning, for a leisurely two day ride home through the mountains again.<br />
<br />
That was the plan..........until that bitch Mudder Nature ruined it all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CLzRqHn542U/WRMjbkFgtjI/AAAAAAAAFAQ/_qDxnVENhz8GRK8c8GuLYv_7EuNZqOruACLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-10%2Bat%2B10.25.05%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CLzRqHn542U/WRMjbkFgtjI/AAAAAAAAFAQ/_qDxnVENhz8GRK8c8GuLYv_7EuNZqOruACLcB/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-10%2Bat%2B10.25.05%2BAM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just guess which direction that's headed? Unless the forecast changes it's gonna be a 0430am departure, balls to walls for home to get ahead and stay ahead of the rain. With any luck I should run out of the rain by New Haven, CT, and be dry from there all the way home. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was really hoping not to have to another metric Ironbutt. Fack!</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-26758092630957102002017-05-07T18:06:00.000-07:002017-05-07T18:39:26.432-07:00That Time of the Year Again and MoreEvery year Transport Canada requires me to complete recurrent training in each of the aircraft that I currently fly. For the last three years the training for the Falcon 2000LX takes place in lovely Teterboro, New Jersey, across the river from the madness known as The Big Apple. I do think a lot of that madness makes it's way across the Hudson, because it isn't too calm or tranquil here either.<br />
<br />
I've been flying since 1988, and the training thing is starting to get old. I know it's required, but for me it's like a mandatory trip to the dentist. I know it's good for me, but I don't like it. It's a week of my life I'm not getting back. Basically it consists of 2 full days of ground school, where we review aircraft systems, operations, changes that have occurred in the last year, yada, yada, yada. Then it's 3 days of flight simulator. That's not too bad. We go over emergency procedures you couldn't do in the real airplane. Fires, engine failures, multiple system failures, etc, etc.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qkmx98ug240/V0GstAW8xfI/AAAAAAAAEiY/-tbytJ_45H4gtAzQGXJYxMzJyydOpFd0gCPcB/s1600/IMG_2633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qkmx98ug240/V0GstAW8xfI/AAAAAAAAEiY/-tbytJ_45H4gtAzQGXJYxMzJyydOpFd0gCPcB/s640/IMG_2633.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-woc4KTojimk/Vi01t1ykZCI/AAAAAAAAECw/eJnfb9bWpDwChDO5ZmNSVUb1Fb9RbPXSgCPcB/s1600/FlightSafety-Cessna-simulator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-woc4KTojimk/Vi01t1ykZCI/AAAAAAAAECw/eJnfb9bWpDwChDO5ZmNSVUb1Fb9RbPXSgCPcB/s400/FlightSafety-Cessna-simulator.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>The Box, or the simulator</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
To make matters worst the company expects us to travel to training on our weekends off, and we only get two of them a month. So basically for this month..........none.<br />
<br />
To make this little foray into training a little easier to take I ride my bike to Joisey. I take two or three days to get there, and two to come home. If it's my weekend off, I'm at least gonna enjoy it.<br />
<br />
I've done this trip once on my old Vstrom, and now, this is the second year on the Guzzi.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19IDoxfdbDaFiBPwmz6vy1dxvtruG_cRRSQTLN_1SYozgz5KM5tlO6KjG8phjwRc9JDysvn60CtUT7lha9SUdFy-HP4QbCMUTwiR8QC98JmEyXlh0xIoOQJDH1FVat7rZs1J5ZHG_pAAQ/s1600/blogger-image-2074617009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19IDoxfdbDaFiBPwmz6vy1dxvtruG_cRRSQTLN_1SYozgz5KM5tlO6KjG8phjwRc9JDysvn60CtUT7lha9SUdFy-HP4QbCMUTwiR8QC98JmEyXlh0xIoOQJDH1FVat7rZs1J5ZHG_pAAQ/s640/blogger-image-2074617009.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>I love the Guzzi, but really miss the ol' Strom. Never should have sold it.</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uT1X092B5uo/Vz8jrH1HQEI/AAAAAAAAEhg/VJ6S76L57BI9ALfj3Y0_sJIpCz_bmZQOgCPcB/s1600/IMG_0103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uT1X092B5uo/Vz8jrH1HQEI/AAAAAAAAEhg/VJ6S76L57BI9ALfj3Y0_sJIpCz_bmZQOgCPcB/s640/IMG_0103.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mount Washington</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-laGID3xEL1I/Vz8jrOTM0MI/AAAAAAAAEhg/5E5l1h8zAT0rmDRwLS6PWN3DQ0VM__MkgCPcB/s1600/IMG_0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-laGID3xEL1I/Vz8jrOTM0MI/AAAAAAAAEhg/5E5l1h8zAT0rmDRwLS6PWN3DQ0VM__MkgCPcB/s640/IMG_0099.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Each year I try and find a slightly different route to get here, avoiding the Interstates as much as possible and sticking to the secondary roads in an effort to find the best motorcycle roads out there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FqRVXAWkD6Q/Vz8jrSuuGUI/AAAAAAAAEhg/wTQEvKZYDC8l9zrIU-iv_TyjOki8XlpFwCPcB/s1600/IMG_0110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FqRVXAWkD6Q/Vz8jrSuuGUI/AAAAAAAAEhg/wTQEvKZYDC8l9zrIU-iv_TyjOki8XlpFwCPcB/s640/IMG_0110.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aF8UQt0pmj4/Vz8jrSEAdfI/AAAAAAAAEhg/FkiUMFxH5l47Sp_DRKaPxikQfu2-rcNvwCPcB/s1600/IMG_0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aF8UQt0pmj4/Vz8jrSEAdfI/AAAAAAAAEhg/FkiUMFxH5l47Sp_DRKaPxikQfu2-rcNvwCPcB/s640/IMG_0107.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This year was the best one so far.........as far as roads go. It was the worst for weather, unless you enjoy being wet........and I'm not going there.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tLQe7LxURnQ/WQ-ITPpAFcI/AAAAAAAAE9c/YmVFyJmU9BAhff7IM071gE5ldoqRKvH_QCLcB/s1600/DSCF7031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tLQe7LxURnQ/WQ-ITPpAFcI/AAAAAAAAE9c/YmVFyJmU9BAhff7IM071gE5ldoqRKvH_QCLcB/s640/DSCF7031.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Bike is loaded and ready to go.........the dog is not too impressed that I am leaving again.</i></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PCYPa-47Awk/WQ-LygYpoKI/AAAAAAAAE_M/5oGosEhaeZo5_odYoNoeCruretnKqwoDACLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-07%2Bat%2B4.59.17%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PCYPa-47Awk/WQ-LygYpoKI/AAAAAAAAE_M/5oGosEhaeZo5_odYoNoeCruretnKqwoDACLcB/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-05-07%2Bat%2B4.59.17%2BPM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The forecast was looking rather ominous for Saturday in our neck of the woods, so I decided to try and beat most of the rain by leaving a day early, and making my way as far as Lewiston, Maine. I figured if I left at noon, I'd probably only end up riding in the rain for about an hour, then I'd sleep through the worst of it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dUdVoWqGbSM/WQ-IRnSBehI/AAAAAAAAE9U/tVj9OOaZbWo02Lwxz7qRYGT5le49ZwGDQCEw/s1600/DSCF7032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dUdVoWqGbSM/WQ-IRnSBehI/AAAAAAAAE9U/tVj9OOaZbWo02Lwxz7qRYGT5le49ZwGDQCEw/s640/DSCF7032.jpg" width="574" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The ride to the border was pretty good, it's divided highway, and boring, but it gets you out of the country fast. The weather was overcast with a balmy temp of 10C. I had the heated jacket on taking away the chill. Within an hour I was exchanging pleasantries with the nice CBP officer at the border and after a few "yes sir, no sir, three bags full sir" I was on my way. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Route 9 to Bangor is not a bad road, speed limit is 55mph, or as Scotty Goggles says "a double nickel" (Harley thing). It also happens to be the best cruising speed for the Guzzi, it's happy place. It'll do 70 all day long, but for me and the Guzzi, 55 is where it's at.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The 9 snakes it's way westward, a lot of hills, and sweepers, and not much traffic. The pavement has seen better days and big cracks, potholes and frost heaves abound, keeping me alert.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From Bangor, I jumped on the I95 and pushed towards Lewiston, I was in a rush to head off the rain, so that was the quickest route. The further west I rode the darker the skies turned, and the cloud ceiling dropped lower towards the ground. Just as I had planned it, the first drops of rain hit my shield about 60km from Augusta. Before long the road was rain soaked and so was I.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My Olympia gear that I used on our Labrador trip is still working well, it kept me completely dry, with my heated jacket keeping me comfortable as the mercury continued to fall to a pleasant 8C.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Before long I was pulling into the Residence Inn, having another 466km under my belt. Supper tonight was the last frozen pizza from the cooler, and two Goose Island IPA's to wash it down.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I went to sleep hopeful tomorrow would be a little better weather wise, because my route through the White Mountains would be very scenic.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I woke up in a very dark room, no slivers of sunshine cutting through the bedroom. Peering through the blinds I was greeted with RDF. Any Newfoundlanders will know what that is, or ask Carl Wells the former CBC weather man from Da Rock. RDF (rain, drizzle, fog)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The day was shaping up to be a very wet one. Forecast was for showers, but improving closer to my next destination. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After a less than stellar Residence Inn breakfast I loaded up the Guzzi, plugged in my jacket for added warmth and headed off into the fog. For added measure I wore my heated glove liners. It wasn't the warmest of mornings at 8C. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_o4sFm6aT78/WQ-IRqgr5OI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/huVDJvVFETkc1heYdNDYLPnWui0SA7m1gCEw/s1600/DSCF7033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_o4sFm6aT78/WQ-IRqgr5OI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/huVDJvVFETkc1heYdNDYLPnWui0SA7m1gCEw/s400/DSCF7033.jpg" width="342" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Maine is very international.</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nothing against Maine, but I find the riding drastically improves as soon as you cross into the "Live Free or Die" State. The roads get nicer and views (if you could see them through the fog) get better.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the water, love living near it, playing in it, but riding motorcycles is so much better in the mountains, and New Hampshire does not disappoint. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The only disappointing thing was old man weather. The drizzle and fog was now a steady rain. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This year I took a southern route through White Mountain National Park, cutting west below Mount Washington. I had no idea what the route would entail, but I saw a very cool road on my Garmin Basecamp mapping software and took a chance. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j01reYSsLzk/WQ-IUFDnvEI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/clxmGRK9DFEDv4FFBGM7gERbXJU941lnQCEw/s1600/DSCF7037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j01reYSsLzk/WQ-IUFDnvEI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/clxmGRK9DFEDv4FFBGM7gERbXJU941lnQCEw/s640/DSCF7037.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The chance paid off, the roads ran next to fast flowing rivers in the valleys, before I turned onto <span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">Kancamagus Highway which snaked it's way further skyward into the cloud and fog. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iPBAz1FGs1s/WQ-IVP7aNyI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/s6CWQRTuFaozaDdSASvyaiTpByVMroGawCEw/s1600/DSCF7038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iPBAz1FGs1s/WQ-IVP7aNyI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/s6CWQRTuFaozaDdSASvyaiTpByVMroGawCEw/s640/DSCF7038.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K3yMV2Cgyns/WQ-IUb2InzI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/e-WUzOsUvfUW4MAuYtPkevrnacbgaYvhQCEw/s1600/DSCF7040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K3yMV2Cgyns/WQ-IUb2InzI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/e-WUzOsUvfUW4MAuYtPkevrnacbgaYvhQCEw/s640/DSCF7040.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><span style="color: #1d2129;">Now, the roads up until now had been pretty quiet, not a lot of Mainers or Live Free or Diers on the move. Once in the National Park it </span>became<span style="color: #1d2129;"> void of cars. I passed one other silly fucker on a bike. No he </span></span></span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">wasn't</span><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"> on a Harley either. I'm guessing the weather has them all to scared to leave the garage. Nope it was a guy, or girl, could really tell, on a Ducati Multistrada. All the Italians out in the rain. Bellissimo.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MV47KDb6kxI/WQ-IVVEZ7CI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/qiwmV1OyUSI0NnwRiJ6cARdHbzgjhhtBwCEw/s1600/DSCF7041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MV47KDb6kxI/WQ-IVVEZ7CI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/qiwmV1OyUSI0NnwRiJ6cARdHbzgjhhtBwCEw/s640/DSCF7041.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kY8BR72pZRM/WQ-IWC1x18I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/IHBXmQFf8TsKqmuiRoOIf44WB-G96LkQgCEw/s1600/DSCF7044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kY8BR72pZRM/WQ-IWC1x18I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/IHBXmQFf8TsKqmuiRoOIf44WB-G96LkQgCEw/s640/DSCF7044.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q92F_ymDFIQ/WQ-IWpMdAzI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/YD-clZqeGIEbFTkZECSstqV4QvBEf1l-gCEw/s1600/DSCF7045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q92F_ymDFIQ/WQ-IWpMdAzI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/YD-clZqeGIEbFTkZECSstqV4QvBEf1l-gCEw/s640/DSCF7045.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">The Kancamangus Highway tops out close to 3000ft. I'm guessing the views from the summit must be pretty nice. I was full on IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) at this point.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhi9fJPuTcE/WQ-IXk-aXWI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/UMHPgexh94oDnYYWNxXE0PmzlH3yFoU6wCEw/s1600/DSCF7047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhi9fJPuTcE/WQ-IXk-aXWI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/UMHPgexh94oDnYYWNxXE0PmzlH3yFoU6wCEw/s640/DSCF7047.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OqBFIx4Yvyk/WQ-IXLxxQGI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/EmOPZwxYfLQMHTG_R-PPZB4IkR-TOtwHwCEw/s1600/DSCF7048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OqBFIx4Yvyk/WQ-IXLxxQGI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/EmOPZwxYfLQMHTG_R-PPZB4IkR-TOtwHwCEw/s640/DSCF7048.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Not sure, but there maybe something scenic worthy viewing over there.</i></b></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-s321WBbOY/WQ-IYHZCbEI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/r7EqQvrBSFo3lE_LBZB1tVkzEcSzfTsTACEw/s1600/DSCF7049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-s321WBbOY/WQ-IYHZCbEI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/r7EqQvrBSFo3lE_LBZB1tVkzEcSzfTsTACEw/s640/DSCF7049.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i>A balmy 9C!</i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #1d2129;">Descending the backside of the mountain through the hairpin turns the fog started to lift, and the temp began to rise. Soon it was a blistering 15C, and I was dialling back the heat on my jacket. Shit, could it be turning into a nice day?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wnqv7cS2YnY/WQ-IYe_7L_I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/Rohfag3ly7Q2HUCEhkCcHXipDRxLqBKsQCEw/s1600/DSCF7051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wnqv7cS2YnY/WQ-IYe_7L_I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/Rohfag3ly7Q2HUCEhkCcHXipDRxLqBKsQCEw/s640/DSCF7051.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i>Best view of the day in the White Mountains.</i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #1d2129;">I slowly made my way out of New Hampshire and into the Green Mountain State, otherwise known as Vermont. The short lived respite in the rain was over and it was back to a steady pour. I rode a mix of backroad with short stints on the Interstate. The further into Vermont I rode the better the weather turned.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #1d2129;">I was getting hungry and desperately needed a coffee, however exits off the highway continued to pass by, the rain was relentless and as funny as this sounds I didn't want the bike sitting in the rain. At speed the GPS and tank bag are shelter from the wet. Sitting still they get soaked.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #1d2129;">On the horizon I see spots of blue sky, and before long the makers of May flowers have stopped their deluge. I pull off the highway and find a gas station/deli/garden centre. No shit.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-liohj6EDt7k/WQ-IY8nxOMI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/LBxnjVMfKJMO8qVzRFkVKHzymvS8C29HACEw/s1600/DSCF7055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-liohj6EDt7k/WQ-IY8nxOMI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/LBxnjVMfKJMO8qVzRFkVKHzymvS8C29HACEw/s640/DSCF7055.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">Need some groceries, a chicken salad wrap, begonia, gas.......</span></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">The weather improved dramatically at this point, the sun came out and the temp soared to 21C. Heated jacket was switched off, lightweight gloves went on, and I asked Garmin to reroute me on a slightly friendlier route than the Interstate it currently had me on.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">A little bit about GPS's. They only tell you to go where you program them to take you too. Faster route is not always the shortest distance, and shortest distance may take you long time. Oh and don't rule out ending up on gravel roads that may not have qualified as a road since Roosevelt was President. It maybe your programming error, or a dreaded database error.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">So off I go the Garmin leading the blind, which had me second guessing the routing in question. I had gravel roads selected as an avoidance, but here I was heading onto the dirt, with the Interstate a mere 100m to my left.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">Fuck it, you only live once, as my daughter says. Plus, I'm still an ADV rider at heart. Actually the road was pretty good gravel, probably smoother than most paved NB roads. A little greasy at best. When in doubt gas it, right.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-009XJyrHAZk/WQ-IZ4OyRpI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/bTuJ0lc4e0w9Y7jK0s-6cyQ7mnIB9tZKACEw/s1600/DSCF7056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-009XJyrHAZk/WQ-IZ4OyRpI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/bTuJ0lc4e0w9Y7jK0s-6cyQ7mnIB9tZKACEw/s640/DSCF7056.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i>Beats the Interstate any day of the week.....month.....year.</i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t6tYl810LOY/WQ-IaTCmi3I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/-GgxZJPXYNM_mONapxRa_Dn2LryICf19QCEw/s1600/DSCF7057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t6tYl810LOY/WQ-IaTCmi3I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/-GgxZJPXYNM_mONapxRa_Dn2LryICf19QCEw/s640/DSCF7057.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;">The dirt didn't last long and I was spit out on the pavement, which turned into a lovely backroad romp at 80kph.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3LveewoxZE/WQ-IZ5H0IrI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/40rWDe3qm5Yx9YecyXJch7v_cgWx7iwwQCEw/s1600/DSCF7058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3LveewoxZE/WQ-IZ5H0IrI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/40rWDe3qm5Yx9YecyXJch7v_cgWx7iwwQCEw/s640/DSCF7058.jpg" width="498" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;">Oh and I was sent on another Garmin shortcut. It sent me up a nice little gravel road again, which Guzzi and I had no problem riding on......until the gates at the end. Oops. Database error me thinks.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cCTZRvdRGrs/WQ-IcO5AdXI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/d5t71KxxEeYNRAMaVvzkXpYeMHJofT0yACEw/s1600/DSCF7060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cCTZRvdRGrs/WQ-IcO5AdXI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/d5t71KxxEeYNRAMaVvzkXpYeMHJofT0yACEw/s640/DSCF7060.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i>Wish our paved roads at home were as nice as this gravel one.</i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HH-4djEd2kQ/WQ-IcCWob6I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/QExP7_LStJMhpiq044uiR8hDNJ46GJqWQCEw/s1600/DSCF7061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HH-4djEd2kQ/WQ-IcCWob6I/AAAAAAAAE_Q/QExP7_LStJMhpiq044uiR8hDNJ46GJqWQCEw/s640/DSCF7061.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i>The Guzzi doesn't mind getting dirty</i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nkK9bCaV_7s/WQ-IeIKQc8I/AAAAAAAAE_c/5NyhLsgyglUsd6tqcHITlliqEzCPf8f9ACEw/s1600/DSCF7063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nkK9bCaV_7s/WQ-IeIKQc8I/AAAAAAAAE_c/5NyhLsgyglUsd6tqcHITlliqEzCPf8f9ACEw/s640/DSCF7063.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cccccc;">I crossed into western Mass, which looked oddly like the rest of Vermont. Beautiful state, and the incredible riding continued. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cccccc;">What was a long day in the saddle was brought to a close as I pulled into the parking lot of the Fairfield Inn in Great Barrington, Mass under sunny, warm skies. Great Barrington is a quaint little town, just south of Pittsfield, Mass. Too bad I was too knackered to explore it more. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cccccc;">Tonight it was Subway and listen to the Ottawa Senators win in overtime on the internet. Video was not available in the USA. Thank you Rogers. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cccccc;">More to follow in a later post because I'm too tired to write anymore. Oh and one more thing......The Mad Bastard is off for me. It sucks I know, too many logistical things and time off to get it done this year, I am disappointed. In honour for Rally Master Harris I did this,</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cEUai05czB8/WQ_GZHbIm_I/AAAAAAAAE_g/opQtT9oDugYmLNrqJC71nbvmRb1xLLa1ACLcB/s1600/17991348_1366770160079686_5337319520868195737_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cEUai05czB8/WQ_GZHbIm_I/AAAAAAAAE_g/opQtT9oDugYmLNrqJC71nbvmRb1xLLa1ACLcB/s640/17991348_1366770160079686_5337319520868195737_o.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3LEfOfFzw1Y/WQ-IeTh0sII/AAAAAAAAE_Q/F8x3sHkxab8vXO0nBUFWB1i489PXvBoDwCEw/s1600/DSCF7065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3LEfOfFzw1Y/WQ-IeTh0sII/AAAAAAAAE_Q/F8x3sHkxab8vXO0nBUFWB1i489PXvBoDwCEw/s640/DSCF7065.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cccccc;">Not a bad day of riding.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-9424669321364460752017-03-31T12:28:00.003-07:002017-03-31T12:28:57.405-07:00Mad Bastard 2017Spring has sprung, well at least on the calendar anyway, and in southern locales it must be warm. In the Maritimes it's kinda like winter lite. The temperature hasn't gone up a whole lot, but the days are longer, and the sun is warmer. The snow is starting to melt away, and thoughts of all things two wheeled are flooding back into my brain.<br />
<br />
Too be honest I was a little on the fence on whether or not I'd make the trek to London, Ontario for the 2017 edition of the Mad Bastard Scooter Rally (MBSR). I was going to be pretty busy with some paddle boarding events I was organizing this year. I then realized that this years rally was a tribute to Rob Harris, the maddest bastard of all, and creator of this mad capped event. Plus I had a scooter, two in fact, and a pickup truck to get said scooter to London. I also had the required vacation time to pull this off.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UuMx25Y-3J8/V3KNR0DKm0I/AAAAAAAAEpA/4bH0Tl1JbnMj6YskfjgBEV-fqK8Ul__YgCPcB/s1600/13521925_1148861301822821_3320581825017720786_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UuMx25Y-3J8/V3KNR0DKm0I/AAAAAAAAEpA/4bH0Tl1JbnMj6YskfjgBEV-fqK8Ul__YgCPcB/s640/13521925_1148861301822821_3320581825017720786_n.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So I ran this by the missus, and got the thumbs up from her, and decided to commit.........or be committed. I was entering in the 50cc and under "straightjacket" class after all.<br />
<br />
Monday April 3rd is the official first day of registration for MBSR 2017. Personally I think April 1st would have been more fitting.<br />
<br />
For those of you unfamiliar with the MBSR, this years edition takes place in London, Ontario, June 23-25. The rally is over 600km, and comprised different categories for different engine size. Like I said I'm in the straitjacket class, which is the craziest of the crazy at 50cc. Go completely looney or stay home.<br />
<br />
<div class="paragraph" style="line-height: 1.75; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<strong style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">Straitjacket Class (24 hours)</strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">- All scooters and mopeds up to 50cc in capacity</span><br /><strong style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">Heavily Medicated (20 hours)</strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">- All scooters greater than 50cc but no greater than 110cc</span><br /><strong style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">Therapy Required (18 hours)</strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">- Scooters greater than 110cc but no greater than 200cc</span><br /><strong style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">Day Release (16 hours)</strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">- Scooters greater than 200cc</span></div>
<div class="paragraph" style="line-height: 1.75; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></div>
This is not a race, you win by accumulating the most points by overall time, pictures of various places along the route, costume worn, waitresses kissed, exposing yourself to nature, etc. Ya it's a little nuts, but that's the fun.<br />
<br />
So my biggest decision so far is what to wear for this event. I may harken back to my youth, when I tore around town on my Elite 125 as a skate punk. I have the Vans hightops already. A trip to Value Village or military surplus store to get the some other things. A skateboard strapped to the side of the Ruckus, a helmet mohawk, order up a Dead Kennedy's or Sex Pistols t-shirt, and I'm ready to roll.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-adMfBTNqXLc/WN6t3wp8_-I/AAAAAAAAE74/SVgeSKllBN8MCEK3GD7BfF6lr6e-8AGggCLcB/s1600/dead-kennedys-brick-logo-sticker-s109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-adMfBTNqXLc/WN6t3wp8_-I/AAAAAAAAE74/SVgeSKllBN8MCEK3GD7BfF6lr6e-8AGggCLcB/s320/dead-kennedys-brick-logo-sticker-s109.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-57jvXoSCiQ8/WN6t3-n_2uI/AAAAAAAAE78/B02Qwf5urEc_E1QEYZSicytV4AcWA4ReQCLcB/s1600/sexpistls3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-57jvXoSCiQ8/WN6t3-n_2uI/AAAAAAAAE78/B02Qwf5urEc_E1QEYZSicytV4AcWA4ReQCLcB/s640/sexpistls3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ybdgNU81OQE/WN6rdbthqII/AAAAAAAAE7s/2PemGwUb3iIjz7u4pGaO0RwOblfpjFFVgCEw/s1600/023bdaaf7eed8a160b180ea8c835115e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ybdgNU81OQE/WN6rdbthqII/AAAAAAAAE7s/2PemGwUb3iIjz7u4pGaO0RwOblfpjFFVgCEw/s320/023bdaaf7eed8a160b180ea8c835115e.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I know what most of you are thinking...........mods, mods, what mods are gonna make, oh and farkles too. No engine mods for sure. Keep it simple and hang on to that Honda reliability.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QPx4n1RkhF8/V5NdgVEIbvI/AAAAAAAAEsI/O8Gw-8Q3TB4kWNF6Lo3ynSq-MP3H4ETFQCPcB/s1600/IMG_1855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="608" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QPx4n1RkhF8/V5NdgVEIbvI/AAAAAAAAEsI/O8Gw-8Q3TB4kWNF6Lo3ynSq-MP3H4ETFQCPcB/s640/IMG_1855.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm not 16 anymore, even if I still dress like I do, so the big mods are comfort only. Cramp buster for the throttle hand, foot pegs so I can change up foot position. USB port for the GPS, extra gas can, and some better road oriented tires. Maybe even with whitewalls. (to eck out all the speed I can, and to smoothen out the ride). I think a windscreen will be order too, and of course the Airhawk seat cushion will along for the ride to keep my arse from going too numb.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vDREB93kh4s/WN6rdRgUxyI/AAAAAAAAE7o/Fi--Bm0V1nIB_vbCNXOZFcTOKcgbbIAzwCEw/s1600/likethis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vDREB93kh4s/WN6rdRgUxyI/AAAAAAAAE7o/Fi--Bm0V1nIB_vbCNXOZFcTOKcgbbIAzwCEw/s400/likethis.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So stay tuned as things begin to unfold. As always, I'll be dragging the video camera along to record the events, and hopefully make it into a short Bigland film. </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-83309386134022430882016-11-19T03:55:00.001-08:002016-11-20T04:46:53.470-08:00New Offerings for 2017<br />
As the sun starts to move away from those of us unlucky enough to be situated far above the equator, and temperatures head towards single digit numbers, it marks that time of year when all the motorcycle manufacturers start peddling their wares for the 2017 season. The biggest motorcycle show of the season is EICMA in Milan Italy. The major players in the motorcycle industry have lavish unveilings of what will be new for 2017.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P1CZ25ZOhdg/UpsxFm9CfbI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/tkTLP_jZYQcB9G7bdARu2hC56SpxezMSACPcB/s1600/blogger-image-1778286459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P1CZ25ZOhdg/UpsxFm9CfbI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/tkTLP_jZYQcB9G7bdARu2hC56SpxezMSACPcB/s400/blogger-image-1778286459.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's that time of year again</div>
<br />
<br />
Right off the bat, I'm not gonna talk about everything that went on, cause for most of it I don't really care, like the latest super bikes, etc, etc. Head over to CMG and checkout all the details for that.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On the Guzzi front.......other than the new bagger, the Flying Fortress, which really does little to impress me, there isn't much new here. Re-hash of the same V7 styling, and that's about it. The V7 line is pretty nice, but nothing too earth shattering to report. A redesigned Norge or Stelvio would've be pretty sweet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b85_Q-b7FJc/V0GtBvN95rI/AAAAAAAAEig/-QAaaXJIdcMYax3nM_Hr7-pc5T5tdvcvwCPcB/s1600/IMG_20160519_104125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b85_Q-b7FJc/V0GtBvN95rI/AAAAAAAAEig/-QAaaXJIdcMYax3nM_Hr7-pc5T5tdvcvwCPcB/s400/IMG_20160519_104125.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I have always been a fan of Honda, they have turned out some pretty epic bikes, and some epic failures. I will say Honda has some major cajones, because some of the bikes they have brought to the market have been.......shall we say "fuckin' weird". We have the NM1, and then a MotoGP winning race bike. Go figure.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgedqCKN9dU5wk7-32B2bGH7JZvfP2vJbh9XFwNw3QxFMBMPQ46WHv3DBI9ZWNk-lkJnEU1OJHxG29XF7flm1ju3tqkUHrvJ5eze3g2W9GvBKJJ8ZetySvSks18Rnuc41yqvD8HhuCiSIt/s1600/2015-Honda-NM4-Action-Left.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgedqCKN9dU5wk7-32B2bGH7JZvfP2vJbh9XFwNw3QxFMBMPQ46WHv3DBI9ZWNk-lkJnEU1OJHxG29XF7flm1ju3tqkUHrvJ5eze3g2W9GvBKJJ8ZetySvSks18Rnuc41yqvD8HhuCiSIt/s400/2015-Honda-NM4-Action-Left.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The CRF250L has been a real success for Honda. It's a no frills, cheap to buy, dual-purpose bike, that makes a very good, small ADV bike. Patrick Tahran modified one into a rally bike, and was quite successful with it. However the CRF needed to be extensively modified to turn it into a decent ADV bike.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NI9v8n0Ose4/WDGXnhKODZI/AAAAAAAAEyk/MpBuQFE_k7IlEVqZds0mcGALjVUJgBZ9ACLcB/s1600/GalleryImages_Honda_17CRF250Rally_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NI9v8n0Ose4/WDGXnhKODZI/AAAAAAAAEyk/MpBuQFE_k7IlEVqZds0mcGALjVUJgBZ9ACLcB/s400/GalleryImages_Honda_17CRF250Rally_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pepwYGUgSic/WDGXnp8SZmI/AAAAAAAAEyo/htij84HtNIovteqhRRgnCGfyej1PNZPqQCLcB/s1600/GalleryImages_Honda_17CRF250Rally_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pepwYGUgSic/WDGXnp8SZmI/AAAAAAAAEyo/htij84HtNIovteqhRRgnCGfyej1PNZPqQCLcB/s640/GalleryImages_Honda_17CRF250Rally_4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmtFjTfNxzU/WDGXntuSt1I/AAAAAAAAEys/c1Cu8obON7UIyoogcC3YUIEzgdNChTy0wCLcB/s1600/GalleryImages_Honda_17CRF250Rally_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmtFjTfNxzU/WDGXntuSt1I/AAAAAAAAEys/c1Cu8obON7UIyoogcC3YUIEzgdNChTy0wCLcB/s640/GalleryImages_Honda_17CRF250Rally_13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
So for 2017 Honda brings us the CRF250L Rallye. Same dependable low maintenance bike, with a bigger gas tank, small Dakar style fairing, and upgraded suspension. What's not to love? All the ADVRider crowd want a bigger engine, better suspension, etc, etc. I read the forums. Everyone wants a full blown Dakar race bike that only 2% of us can actually ride to it's full potential, and can afford to buy.<br />
<br />
I'm going to go off on a little tangent right now. The ADV bike market has it all wrong, bigger is not always better. Unfortunately North America is the land of the bigger is better mentality. Everyone needs the 1L of soda in a Big Gulp, and the 1/2 a bag of potatoes in a large fries. For the two-wheeled enthusiasts, it's 1800cc or nothing. Europe is far more refined and have their shit together. Small displacement bikes are a way of life and not looked down on.<br />
<br />
The ADV bikes keep getting bigger and bigger. KTM's 640 ADV grew to a 990, 1190, and now a 1290, because everyone needs a 150hp bike for exploring the backroads. If I were going to travel the world on an ADV bike, it would be on a 300cc or less. Why the hell would you want to muscle around a giant motorcycle in the third world and stand out like a sore thumb.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oin-t__Gw88/WDGYHbwszSI/AAAAAAAAEyw/RbNXPzzHyz8WqRa_Yorkjxijy9-pe7vowCLcB/s1600/KTM-1290-Super-Adventure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oin-t__Gw88/WDGYHbwszSI/AAAAAAAAEyw/RbNXPzzHyz8WqRa_Yorkjxijy9-pe7vowCLcB/s400/KTM-1290-Super-Adventure.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So I was pretty happy to see that not only did Honda step up and bring us something small and cool, so did Kawasaki and Suzuki.<br />
<br />
Kawasaki really surprised me when they mated a KLR, Versys and Ninja 300, and the result was what they called a Versys-X. I call it the KLR they should have built in 2008. I would have no qualms about taking this over the TLH. I think it would be perfect.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tk99phlCpwQ/WDGWMrFchCI/AAAAAAAAEyY/7i2lUuAf9GMxLQK6az74WqZQQkdXfO4WQCPcB/s1600/nmhNIkW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tk99phlCpwQ/WDGWMrFchCI/AAAAAAAAEyY/7i2lUuAf9GMxLQK6az74WqZQQkdXfO4WQCPcB/s320/nmhNIkW.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGTwhJfUbJo/WDGWMjTI3WI/AAAAAAAAEyU/mDxy2T__0cUkJvWF6koZ_HSnU-BcK7vHQCPcB/s1600/17KLE300C_44SGN1DRF00D_C_001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGTwhJfUbJo/WDGWMjTI3WI/AAAAAAAAEyU/mDxy2T__0cUkJvWF6koZ_HSnU-BcK7vHQCPcB/s640/17KLE300C_44SGN1DRF00D_C_001.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Then along comes Suzuki with a wait for it........VStrom 2fity. A pint sized, parallel twin Strom. Like the rest of the VStrom line it looks to be a little more road worthy than the others.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cRRESYbrc8c/WDGWMbuzaZI/AAAAAAAAEyM/XgB1yDayvWgQgkGl1-MHogUR2wc2pnzTQCPcB/s1600/2017-suzuki-v-strom-650_yel_l7_p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cRRESYbrc8c/WDGWMbuzaZI/AAAAAAAAEyM/XgB1yDayvWgQgkGl1-MHogUR2wc2pnzTQCPcB/s640/2017-suzuki-v-strom-650_yel_l7_p.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
To top it all off, the maker of the original ADV bike, former aircraft engine manufacturer BMW releases a G310 GS. It's touted as an urban commuter capable of weekend adventures on gravel roads. In reality most GS's never leave the tarmac.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CyE8JgE9SbI/WDGWM9nrsDI/AAAAAAAAEyc/fQ0dcdsEzK4I7c4cH9buzdTTDnA6lIMnACPcB/s1600/wcms_G310GS_outdoor_1920x1080_05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CyE8JgE9SbI/WDGWM9nrsDI/AAAAAAAAEyc/fQ0dcdsEzK4I7c4cH9buzdTTDnA6lIMnACPcB/s640/wcms_G310GS_outdoor_1920x1080_05.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The CRF Rallye and the Versys-X are already on their respective Canadian manufacturers websites. No prices yet. The wee-weeStrom and baby Bimmer have made appearances at the big Long Beach Cali bike show, which bodes well for arriving on our shores.<br />
<br />
2017 is going to be an exciting year for the baby ADV bikes. If these bikes are priced accordingly it could mean a bigger influx of young riders into this segment of the market. As HD is finding out, the new generation of would be riders are not saddled with piles of cash, and the thought of a $15-20K motorcycle is out of the question. These new affordable offerings may just be the ticket, because up until now, all we had are some 1980's designed thumpers as smaller options.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xp_9h9RUvKw/WDGY2LnQfkI/AAAAAAAAEy8/N6DzxNeX9bYaIMV9YvAvoJ3fogXMjyo-wCLcB/s1600/DR200S_YEL_L5.ashx_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xp_9h9RUvKw/WDGY2LnQfkI/AAAAAAAAEy8/N6DzxNeX9bYaIMV9YvAvoJ3fogXMjyo-wCLcB/s320/DR200S_YEL_L5.ashx_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rear drum brake??? Really in 2016.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RgeALtU4gpY/WDGY2MYXa4I/AAAAAAAAEy4/MVY-ep-MyxgbCPAwntcvP26uyIQD3siAQCLcB/s1600/img.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RgeALtU4gpY/WDGY2MYXa4I/AAAAAAAAEy4/MVY-ep-MyxgbCPAwntcvP26uyIQD3siAQCLcB/s400/img.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-35304267854387759532016-11-19T03:55:00.000-08:002016-11-19T03:57:32.617-08:00It's Been AwhileI haven't written anything moto related in quite awhile, I guess there hasn't been much to write about from my perspective. I have been focusing most of my energy on my true love of surfing, so everything two wheeled has taken a back seat.<br />
<br />
I have been riding, just not a lot. The Guzzi has been out a few times, and I continue to run errands as much as possible on the Ruckus. The season is coming to a close quite fast, and there are really only a couple of days left if you look at the forecast. Next week the highs for the day are barely above freezing. Once the salt hits the pavement, riding days are few and far between.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xYkF96vLa08/WDA8Yc06TtI/AAAAAAAAEx8/0u668cFFvTgkNOgJSx37Xn_G3738vHjXQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xYkF96vLa08/WDA8Yc06TtI/AAAAAAAAEx8/0u668cFFvTgkNOgJSx37Xn_G3738vHjXQCLcB/s640/DSC_0021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8LpEndAPGY/WDA78eMcoQI/AAAAAAAAEx4/P5-wupJrx_wSru6GNreH39Xx8MlTg0MKgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8LpEndAPGY/WDA78eMcoQI/AAAAAAAAEx4/P5-wupJrx_wSru6GNreH39Xx8MlTg0MKgCLcB/s640/DSC_0013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Out for a ride with my cousin Rylan and his wife Emily when they were down for a visit from Ontario.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hh52cem_LLE/WDA77b9KNEI/AAAAAAAAExw/YefvGHfNtXsbNwStrVMGe_PWzFFWASavACLcB/s1600/IMG_2743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hh52cem_LLE/WDA77b9KNEI/AAAAAAAAExw/YefvGHfNtXsbNwStrVMGe_PWzFFWASavACLcB/s640/IMG_2743.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kim and I did some scooter riding together.</div>
<br />
<br />
This weekend I'll be putting some stabilizer in the Guzzi, and the scoots giving them a wash and hooking up the trickle charger. The scoots need oil changes so I'll get that done before it turns real cold.<br />
<br />
I had a bad year for riding, it started off shitty and continued that way for the rest of the season. Rob Harris' death had a big impact on that this year. It happened on my birthday while I was away traveling on the bike, and it fucked me up. Here I was in a hotel room 1000km from my home and my family, and I wouldn't be getting back for another week. It sucked, because all I could think about was being with my girls.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Z3Mree8Scs/V0GtB4DAdCI/AAAAAAAAEig/8q4o3M2DuSkVNYyP1AP2fLGNUKwuhU7DACPcB/s1600/IMG_20160521_134225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Z3Mree8Scs/V0GtB4DAdCI/AAAAAAAAEig/8q4o3M2DuSkVNYyP1AP2fLGNUKwuhU7DACPcB/s400/IMG_20160521_134225.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After my week of flight simulator training, I did the 12hr ride home from NYC in one day.</div>
<br />
<br />
But, like everything in life, time heals old wounds, and in the last couple of weeks I have been thinking more and more about riding, and going on trips again. Really up until two weeks ago I was ready to sell the Guzzi and be done with it.<br />
<br />
Yesterday I realized that was indeed back to normal again. Whatever normal is? My friend Tom emailed me to say he was in a bike accident. Car pulled out on him while riding down a gravel road on his KLR. It gave me flashbacks to May 14th. Luckily Tom escaped with only minor injuries, a broken wrist and ankle. In Tom's words "I got out of dish duty for two months" Oh.......the KLR will need a new fairing. Here's to a speedy recovery Tom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6eeDsb09nnQ/Uok9Gp2oLkI/AAAAAAAAB1I/rInweauZS4EGOWWk_fo47WCrGjayZ6yHACPcB/s1600/DSCF7137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6eeDsb09nnQ/Uok9Gp2oLkI/AAAAAAAAB1I/rInweauZS4EGOWWk_fo47WCrGjayZ6yHACPcB/s640/DSCF7137.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tom is now one of the organizers of the FYNOR (Freeze Your Nuts Off Ride) a ride I had hoped to participate in this year, but was away working.</div>
<br />
<br />
I still want to ride, and I am still planning my annual bike trip to New York for work next spring, and hopefully the Mad Bastard Scooter Rally in June.<br />
<br />
I'm hoping 2017 is gonna be a better year, cause 2016 so far has sucked, and it's almost over.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-62573007061562372442016-09-03T18:29:00.000-07:002016-09-03T18:29:14.004-07:00There is a Perfect Bike After AllI'm the first to admit, I tend to gravitate to the more oddball things in life. Things like running around a giant lake in Newfoundland covering 67 painful kilometres. Ok, running is a bit of stretch, more like jogging which turned to a death march. Then there is surfing......in Saint John........in the winter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OEFef9wlZlA/V8t3CR1-wjI/AAAAAAAAEws/AdJRK8kXPxgI2JyvS5GYIn-a8kKVXaB5wCLcB/s1600/15180227326_a6a28fceb4_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OEFef9wlZlA/V8t3CR1-wjI/AAAAAAAAEws/AdJRK8kXPxgI2JyvS5GYIn-a8kKVXaB5wCLcB/s640/15180227326_a6a28fceb4_o.jpg" width="470" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9lhqRvlxHxY/V8t3DNZHtZI/AAAAAAAAExA/JaRtawEGTqcNqF-2XnRR-NtGrMN4OoyigCLcB/s1600/image2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9lhqRvlxHxY/V8t3DNZHtZI/AAAAAAAAExA/JaRtawEGTqcNqF-2XnRR-NtGrMN4OoyigCLcB/s640/image2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGRmWNWdb5Q/V8t3Ci54HOI/AAAAAAAAEww/B2Fe56x0_vYetayjHFaXrEyJ7qN-vc1BgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGRmWNWdb5Q/V8t3Ci54HOI/AAAAAAAAEww/B2Fe56x0_vYetayjHFaXrEyJ7qN-vc1BgCLcB/s640/IMG_2020.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My odd ball tastes carry over to vehicles too, even though my driveway has two normal vehicles. Being a "family" guy has something to do with that. Otherwise I'd probably have an old Westfalia, an original MINI Cooper and a Sprinter van in the driveway instead. It's part of the reason the Guzzi is there. There might be three other ones in the city. Plus it's cool.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kIaXoi5SKkU/V8t3-sCAQPI/AAAAAAAAExI/PJCIojfpFaIIOq60h6KkO_gdmg2GD19_QCLcB/s1600/1288374371930_WIDESCREEN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kIaXoi5SKkU/V8t3-sCAQPI/AAAAAAAAExI/PJCIojfpFaIIOq60h6KkO_gdmg2GD19_QCLcB/s640/1288374371930_WIDESCREEN.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3TNlvAktVs8/V8t3-zGS7yI/AAAAAAAAExU/X7MyUCvUb4cdWfWIxHYJ--DxiFwako-lwCLcB/s1600/mercedes-benz-sprinter-van.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3TNlvAktVs8/V8t3-zGS7yI/AAAAAAAAExU/X7MyUCvUb4cdWfWIxHYJ--DxiFwako-lwCLcB/s640/mercedes-benz-sprinter-van.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1PdGRcmzjM/V8t3-i8QM6I/AAAAAAAAExM/mCCaAFlrmeIBjMTBolYJ8xbhoioc8zfCQCLcB/s1600/Mini_Cooper_S_1964.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1PdGRcmzjM/V8t3-i8QM6I/AAAAAAAAExM/mCCaAFlrmeIBjMTBolYJ8xbhoioc8zfCQCLcB/s640/Mini_Cooper_S_1964.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
So as much as a BMW 1200GS or Honda Africa Twin would be awesome to have, and either one would be a good candidate for the "perfect" bike, my eye would continue to wander to the more eclectic things in life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BZMc6FGgdyU/V8t3C25ePII/AAAAAAAAExE/3AEesZXQEscBDYc3y16W6KHYoAtCZ1kTwCEw/s1600/DSC_0046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BZMc6FGgdyU/V8t3C25ePII/AAAAAAAAExE/3AEesZXQEscBDYc3y16W6KHYoAtCZ1kTwCEw/s400/DSC_0046.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The Ruckus is kind of eclectic, it has a cult following, there are a lot of them around, which kind of goes against something being eclectic. It's just not a traditional looking scooter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAsHRxLW-2Y/V8t3-iP1xDI/AAAAAAAAExQ/DZ1EKh3V_JwtkNBWIp8cMSpAdnDX8HphACEw/s1600/5437367_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAsHRxLW-2Y/V8t3-iP1xDI/AAAAAAAAExQ/DZ1EKh3V_JwtkNBWIp8cMSpAdnDX8HphACEw/s640/5437367_orig.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I came up with a list of must haves for "the" bike. The one I'd live with for a very long time.<br />
<br />
Must be capable of riding on dirt roads.<br />
<br />
Capable of cruising on secondary highways. Interstates are boring, and I'm not interested in riding on them. So 60mph is just fine.<br />
<br />
It has to have character. I don't think I could live with something like a Honda NC750X. Not that there is anything wrong with it. The Guzzi has character.<br />
<br />
Storage space. I need room to put all my shit somewhere, and I don't want to be buying saddlebags, top cases and tank bags. I know this is a stretch on a motorcycle.<br />
<br />
Most of all it has to fun to ride. I mean if it's not fun, why do it. I use my bike to commute to work for almost 8 months of the year. It's my kind of decompression after a busy day or shitty flight. Ya, it happens, like when the Marriott forgets the turndown service and you don't get the chocolates on the pillow, or the pub is out of Goose Island IPA.<br />
<br />
The perfect bike for me is there and it is waiting for me, not sure when I will get it, or where. Bringing it home could be an adventure in itself.<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-88017700606771446272016-08-31T05:26:00.002-07:002016-08-31T05:26:55.061-07:00Honda's ADV Scooter...........Perfect Bike??? Is it a Bike? Scooter?Honda has been teasing us with glimpses of it's latest maxi-scooter. Let's be honest, from what we can tell it doesn't really fit into the scooter category, nor does it fit in with the motorcycles. Scooters typically have a CVT transmission, using belts, pulleys, etc to make the back wheel move. This new "scooter" from what we can tell uses the same transmission as the Africa Twin DCT model.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8GcoDlZHrLk/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8GcoDlZHrLk?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First teaser video</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now we have all seen the concept bike/scooter pics released from the Japan Motorcycle Show, and Honda in fact is putting it into production, but what that will look like is still sort of a mystery.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BulPktHuC2U/V5dgeTh1PKI/AAAAAAAAEs4/Ky14wQM1YfAYEgVjivpmjqCQ4Y1JWUo7QCPcB/s1600/Honda-City-Adventure-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BulPktHuC2U/V5dgeTh1PKI/AAAAAAAAEs4/Ky14wQM1YfAYEgVjivpmjqCQ4Y1JWUo7QCPcB/s640/Honda-City-Adventure-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The new City ADV as it's called is based around Honda's 750 Integra, which is only available overseas. I cannot imagine Honda selling a lot of these in the land of the V-Twins, and assless chaps. Not sure what they were thinking with the NM1, unless there is a large legion of Batman wannabes looking for a Batbike.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GA6OlwaRDnk/V8bM0iRgJUI/AAAAAAAAEwQ/A03FwvUGLXQvdytTmf-wF1tZFmWwNX4BQCLcB/s1600/2015-Honda-NM4-Action-Left.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GA6OlwaRDnk/V8bM0iRgJUI/AAAAAAAAEwQ/A03FwvUGLXQvdytTmf-wF1tZFmWwNX4BQCLcB/s640/2015-Honda-NM4-Action-Left.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lWiFq3xQUOQ/V8bM0rnZaUI/AAAAAAAAEwU/7XZA09l2I-AAOLCN7-4NawE6WdGdfV6cACLcB/s1600/Honda-Integra-NC750D-maxi-trial-sccoter-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lWiFq3xQUOQ/V8bM0rnZaUI/AAAAAAAAEwU/7XZA09l2I-AAOLCN7-4NawE6WdGdfV6cACLcB/s640/Honda-Integra-NC750D-maxi-trial-sccoter-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think Honda will release the City ADV or X-ADV to the North American market. The ADV segment of motorcycling is growing faster than any other right now, and the population with any real money to spend is getting up there in age.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So when you are too old to throw a leg over that 1200GS or Africa Twin, but still want something cool and ADV style to ride, with a decent motor, you can step through the City ADV, and be riding again after that double knee or replacement surgery.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am very excited about this bike/scooter, whatever. It kinda ticks off most of the boxes for me. I love a scooter, would still like to ride gravel roads, and it has a good sized engine for touring. Oh, and when my hips and knees are shot from too much trail running, I can slide onto the seat and go for a ride. It's like the off spring of an Africa Twin and a Ruckus.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/aCj74WnXs9w/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aCj74WnXs9w?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So fingers crossed that Honda does indeed change my horizons forever.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-71821784924453089492016-08-29T03:58:00.000-07:002016-08-29T03:58:15.671-07:00Is There a Perfect Bike?The never ending quest for the perfect bike, does it really exist? For some, I'm sure it does, for others, not a chance. Unfortunately for me, I think I fall into the later category. I really don't think there is one perfect bike......at least for me anyway.<br />
<br />
I have gone through my fair share of bikes, a 1972 Honda Z50, 1984 Honda Elite 125, a 1995 Honda CBR600F3, a 2000 Honda CBR600F4, 2007 CBR125R, 2009 BMW G650 X-Country, 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 400R, 2006 Suzuki Vstrom 1000, a 2001 Honda XR250R, and my current steed a 2014 Moto Guzzi V7. That's ten bikes, not including the new 2016 Honda Ruckus scooter. I have no idea why I cannot be happy, or live with the bike I have. I get bored.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UzhER6JiHvU/UZT8qfuo54I/AAAAAAAADCQ/q-GNMXrWoeAkCYgVbgaWAwW-LKqD_Q89wCPcB/s1600/IM001558_800x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UzhER6JiHvU/UZT8qfuo54I/AAAAAAAADCQ/q-GNMXrWoeAkCYgVbgaWAwW-LKqD_Q89wCPcB/s640/IM001558_800x600.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzqoBiFpkAY/UZT_UD1N7qI/AAAAAAAADCU/x5gT4YUuNo0MdmTAtHKJnXlTV7g85OzhQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzqoBiFpkAY/UZT_UD1N7qI/AAAAAAAADCU/x5gT4YUuNo0MdmTAtHKJnXlTV7g85OzhQCPcB/s640/DSC_0003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mRNZFIYRyx8/UZVLRVkDWyI/AAAAAAAADCM/fQ0LFhpXan8ASzT8dtFAoDFlaC-HYeG2ACPcB/s1600/DSCF3056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mRNZFIYRyx8/UZVLRVkDWyI/AAAAAAAADCM/fQ0LFhpXan8ASzT8dtFAoDFlaC-HYeG2ACPcB/s640/DSCF3056.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNpdylk64Jk/UrV_r-ZmS4I/AAAAAAAAB5c/WkI2JPhrdqYTGHM3Xik9ZY4MiMgICcdTQCPcB/s1600/IMG_0811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNpdylk64Jk/UrV_r-ZmS4I/AAAAAAAAB5c/WkI2JPhrdqYTGHM3Xik9ZY4MiMgICcdTQCPcB/s400/IMG_0811.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kx8QFts6NIU/VCF6acCVuSI/AAAAAAAACNM/zRzonFvMCtgMFiWb4G4TOJ1bQe0gbCzEwCPcB/s1600/blogger-image-239385392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kx8QFts6NIU/VCF6acCVuSI/AAAAAAAACNM/zRzonFvMCtgMFiWb4G4TOJ1bQe0gbCzEwCPcB/s400/blogger-image-239385392.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwm2qn3mIDz-aWvookXrOfNV4oO28Z4_ifZavWS8Uv0PrWFIKvKxqunIarkEu3q3VBcRxRM_zrQ9PNyDJF5bA8GjCGXRg6q0kv4kY9-LseHkqBPUnjut9u_9QSRlZLj70smWMtYPEGR5OF/s1600/DSC_0255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwm2qn3mIDz-aWvookXrOfNV4oO28Z4_ifZavWS8Uv0PrWFIKvKxqunIarkEu3q3VBcRxRM_zrQ9PNyDJF5bA8GjCGXRg6q0kv4kY9-LseHkqBPUnjut9u_9QSRlZLj70smWMtYPEGR5OF/s640/DSC_0255.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n74TakLBoDE/Vegzh3NMbUI/AAAAAAAAC9s/ENCoV3vdw-gML1jAj2SaSPskHcYJRQhRwCPcB/s1600/IMG_2337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n74TakLBoDE/Vegzh3NMbUI/AAAAAAAAC9s/ENCoV3vdw-gML1jAj2SaSPskHcYJRQhRwCPcB/s640/IMG_2337.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Lately I have been on the scooter kick and the idea of having a large Vespa, such as the 300GTS Super Sport would be awesome. It's fast enough, I can tour, commute and it's practical around the city. But will I get bored of it? Will I go through another ADV bike phase? I already have a scooter in the garage, will I still ride the Ruckus if I have a Vespa? Too many questions and not enough answers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GnL0yvLQ118/U754bdY6PBI/AAAAAAAACCk/y7LF1DnhRX8qRUNsmoXEjDKi7dzi_5KtgCPcB/s1600/blogger-image--189441921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="334" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GnL0yvLQ118/U754bdY6PBI/AAAAAAAACCk/y7LF1DnhRX8qRUNsmoXEjDKi7dzi_5KtgCPcB/s640/blogger-image--189441921.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I think a lot of the problem is my bike purchases have all been compromises, don't want to spend too much money on a two-wheeled toy. I guess that's the dilemma of most people that aren't independently wealthy. Mind you if I added up all the money spent on bikes in the last 10 years I could have just got the one that I wanted and be done with it.<br />
<br />
So what is the <i style="font-weight: bold;">one?</i> For all you ADV riders out there, this is gonna sound lame, but <i style="font-weight: bold;">the one</i>, is a BMW R1200GS. I fucking love that thing. Oh and it gets better, after reading The Long Way Round, and fantasizing about doing my own adventure is when it all began. That was 2005. Then I watch the video series, and went whoa. The 1150GS was awesome. I mean it was way too big a bike for that kind of trip. If I were to ride around the world it would be on a Yamaha XT250 in Austin Vince style. But those big beepers were awesome. Then the 1200GS comes out! Even better.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4F1a9SCntGg/UZU_TNiN_RI/AAAAAAAADD0/n6P8urxWiTAIi9P2osTUbU2HeJ4NtDcyACPcB/s1600/240px-Long_Way_Round.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4F1a9SCntGg/UZU_TNiN_RI/AAAAAAAADD0/n6P8urxWiTAIi9P2osTUbU2HeJ4NtDcyACPcB/s640/240px-Long_Way_Round.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
In 2009 I briefly rode a used '06 that Atlantic Motoplex had, and the love affair blossomed. But the wallet never, so it remained an unobtainable dream. Bikes came and went.<br />
<br />
The first Fundy Adventure Rally gave me an incredible opportunity to spend an entire day flogging a F800GS. It was a bike on my radar that would be a reasonably priced substitute for it's big brother. The 800GS was awesome, but not really awesome. I never enjoyed it on the highway. It was buzzy, and not nearly as highway capable as my then current bike, the VStrom. If I'm shelling out $15K, the damn thing better be comfortable on the highway.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pQU4Oeg5UGc/VA13mHfLHSI/AAAAAAAACKk/tWFQ2XPkQYABRJt4U2zTBF--1UlO8kttwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pQU4Oeg5UGc/VA13mHfLHSI/AAAAAAAACKk/tWFQ2XPkQYABRJt4U2zTBF--1UlO8kttwCPcB/s640/DSC_0361.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ssD6bQfMOXs/VA13piIYhyI/AAAAAAAACKs/HvDTtoJbY_Ac2l1vSd6xow2sKwcVPXsCgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ssD6bQfMOXs/VA13piIYhyI/AAAAAAAACKs/HvDTtoJbY_Ac2l1vSd6xow2sKwcVPXsCgCPcB/s320/DSC_0363.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcrRqJ_FBkI/VA14PIG7kDI/AAAAAAAACLM/ZJ2VXrUEKHw46Y9xLfX6JUAJPMDoZRFtwCPcB/s1600/DSC_0365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcrRqJ_FBkI/VA14PIG7kDI/AAAAAAAACLM/ZJ2VXrUEKHw46Y9xLfX6JUAJPMDoZRFtwCPcB/s640/DSC_0365.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Oh, and just a little rant, what the fuck is up with BMW seats? Are they some kind of Gestapo torture device. Shit they are uncomfortable. My G650 was the same way. My first long trip on the bike, left me in a crippled state, and a numb arse.<br />
<br />
The Strom was a very capable bike, great highway machine, could eat miles while cruising anywhere from 120-150kph. Any hard off road would be difficult. The Strom was quite top heavy and had cast wheels. But it was basically a gas and go, change the oil every once and while machine. I do regret selling that machine. It was set up perfect. Not sure what I was really thinking.<br />
<br />
So I continued to dream of the big GS. Everyone I'd see one the road would turn my head and stare with envy.<br />
<br />
I figured I'd put the whole GS thing behind me and go with a retro bike. I like the retro bikes, and would fill the garage with them if I could. The Guzzi is an awesome bike. It has tonnes of character, and the best exhaust note. It's really comfortable, and with the small Dart Flyscreen is a very capable tourer. There is no logical reason to sell it.<br />
<br />
Along comes The Fundy Adventure Rally part Deux. I have to admit I was pretty intimidated by the 1200GS, not riding it on the slab, but to push it through its paces in an off road rally. I was really hoping Rob was going give me the CMG CRF250L. One it's small and light, and two, I was interested in buying one.<br />
<br />
I was scheduled to ride in Clinton Smout's BMW rider course, and had thought I'd be on the 250L. I hadn't ridden off road, or even on a gravel road in a year, and wasn't too confident in my abilities. I scared the fuck out myself a couple of times the previous year on the 800GS, and wasn't keen on repeating that.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LsFrENGhNv4/VflfcYxQ5HI/AAAAAAAAC-4/JUWz4YsxpeUTM9l_jIeb225ak0AffgHvgCPcB/s1600/IMG_0027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="594" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LsFrENGhNv4/VflfcYxQ5HI/AAAAAAAAC-4/JUWz4YsxpeUTM9l_jIeb225ak0AffgHvgCPcB/s640/IMG_0027.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Rob had other plans and I ended up the CMG longterm test 1200GS. Yup, it was as big as I remember it was, but now it was liquid cooled with even more power and throttle-by-wire. I was given the bike at the start of the class. No time to get to know the big girl again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jXwwwWnmbwo/VgkedJIyetI/AAAAAAAADJY/OT_wtnPnhxEV5y5wGe7VzvErHVQcB8h4wCPcB/s1600/P9120066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jXwwwWnmbwo/VgkedJIyetI/AAAAAAAADJY/OT_wtnPnhxEV5y5wGe7VzvErHVQcB8h4wCPcB/s640/P9120066.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We bonded immediately, and the love affair lasted a whole two days. I really didn't want to give it back. You can read my review of the GS here <a href="http://biglandadvfilms.blogspot.ca/2015/09/my-thoughts-on-big-beemer-r1200gs.html">http://biglandadvfilms.blogspot.ca/2015/09/my-thoughts-on-big-beemer-r1200gs.html</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Raw1KCWnBBE/VgqXOYJeNbI/AAAAAAAADKM/Pe7OBv_Erhs7n4v_bWWLLltgEuLcZyrsgCPcB/s1600/DSC_0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Raw1KCWnBBE/VgqXOYJeNbI/AAAAAAAADKM/Pe7OBv_Erhs7n4v_bWWLLltgEuLcZyrsgCPcB/s400/DSC_0042.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2zAUXFJnQY/VgqX93Y4_5I/AAAAAAAADKo/FY8ScGvqUSQAqC7_pDjVwy3jtUfUulBOQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2zAUXFJnQY/VgqX93Y4_5I/AAAAAAAADKo/FY8ScGvqUSQAqC7_pDjVwy3jtUfUulBOQCPcB/s640/DSC_0047.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zQIiJ6vxyfI/VgqYfo3zIwI/AAAAAAAADK4/TxpT6UwJA6AMvOo91DAb4ujeWjkQs-iuQCPcB/s1600/DSC_0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zQIiJ6vxyfI/VgqYfo3zIwI/AAAAAAAADK4/TxpT6UwJA6AMvOo91DAb4ujeWjkQs-iuQCPcB/s400/DSC_0050.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
To sum it up the big Beemer took everything I and the rally could throw at it in stride. Fast gravel roads, steep, rock strewn ATV trails, and multi-lane highway.<br />
<br />
Oh, and then there is the price.........BMW Motorrad Canada pricing is as follows<br />
<br />
Base price <b>$19800</b><br />
<br />
Triple Black Model (black engine and spoked wheels) <b>$715</b><br />
<br />
Touring Package (Dynamic ESA, GPS prep, Onboard computer pro, cruise control, luggage case holder) <b>$1750</b><br />
<br />
Freight and PDI <b>$750</b><br />
<br />
Grand total of ...........<b>$23015.00 </b>or about the price of nicely equipped VW Golf.<br />
<br />
The negatives, besides the price. The pure size and weight of the bike. It's big. Closest dealer is in Moncton an hour away, and service is mucho dinero. But you have to pay to play.<br />
<br />
The night after the rally I joined former head honcho of Honda Canada, Warren Milner by the campfire and we chatted about the new Africa Twin that was due out. Specifically about the DCT (dual clutch transmission) and mass centralization. I was very intrigued about the new bike, and filed it away in the back of my mind.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7j_SvAx2o_e57AlNehpeVF3txQU1fY9oysAMhAP0QhpugynIWJ8wuciJ-42GtpW_vuP8hC2mPu_M_RdS-PRcsW6jeBUjmsXIPAtutdlehBvQeDMZfhbW7WkR5OYYQOswmuAJTUKqZttZ/s1600/2016-Honda-Africa-Twin-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7j_SvAx2o_e57AlNehpeVF3txQU1fY9oysAMhAP0QhpugynIWJ8wuciJ-42GtpW_vuP8hC2mPu_M_RdS-PRcsW6jeBUjmsXIPAtutdlehBvQeDMZfhbW7WkR5OYYQOswmuAJTUKqZttZ/s640/2016-Honda-Africa-Twin-7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Could the Africa Twin be a better "Perfect Bike"? A test ride on the Honda is in order. So far it has received glowing reviews, and the DCT has impressed more than a few diehard motorcyclists.<br />
<br />
Whatever "perfect bike" awaits me down the road, it will be awhile. Two and half years until the 50. A fitting time to get <b><i>the</i></b> one.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-51058129897256223762016-08-21T13:57:00.000-07:002016-08-21T15:54:58.797-07:00The Soundtrack of Our LivesI won't be writing about motorcycles, scooters or anything else like that today. I maybe getting a little too deep or philosophical in my old age, but what the hell, I'm most likely past the halfway point of my life right now so I'm allowed to be a little "deep"<br />
<br />
Everyone knows, or at least everyone in Canada knows The Tragically Hip's Gord Downey's situation. The 52 year old frontman of one of the most Canadian bands to ever walk the stage is dying from terminal brain cancer. They played their last show on Saturday August 20th in Kingston, Ontario.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzm0anNhpqAuxkHcrQDaP1u7W8i_NDZl9IeVlQZ5dCcRUgUy0WsWvbLaOVsRF8AEH29btHumsSI_bs65Q6aushjSMgysD2GFEdKUP8hsuH3dM_y2rFqBBDsggUUVdofbRYTgBTd7SHEPl/s1600/slide_499278_6956902_compressed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzm0anNhpqAuxkHcrQDaP1u7W8i_NDZl9IeVlQZ5dCcRUgUy0WsWvbLaOVsRF8AEH29btHumsSI_bs65Q6aushjSMgysD2GFEdKUP8hsuH3dM_y2rFqBBDsggUUVdofbRYTgBTd7SHEPl/s640/slide_499278_6956902_compressed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
In the lead up to this concert there has been a lot of press about the event, about Gord, and what this means to Canadians. It seemed like the entire country was rallying around Gord and the band.<br />
<br />
I was never a big fan of The Hip, as they are known here in The Great White North. I never bought an album, none of their songs were on my playlist. Whether it was a mixed tape from the 90's or on my iPod now, there is no Hip.<br />
<br />
The concert last night was broadcast for free on CBC, no pay-per-view, no commercials, no time delay to bleep out bad words, it was live, raw, and yes Gord said "fuck" many times. I never quite grasped the effect The Hip had on Canada until last night. The country was basically closed for business from 9:30pm until 12:30am as the Toronto Police Department Tweeted.<br />
<br />
The final concert was held in the Downey's home town of Kingston, Ontario, at a small arena that 8000 lucky ticket holders got into. In downtown Kingston the main square was filled with 30,000 fans watching on big screens. All across Canada people gathered in stadiums, theatres, and filled downtown streets to witness the last Hip concert ever to take place. Even Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in attendance.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yBN2Decj2qM/V7oS6UpQOxI/AAAAAAAAEvg/h8pxp86rcCE0E3rxEG_vBCFtJLWXh82IgCLcB/s1600/13995505_1211627095524134_2277608672276416626_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yBN2Decj2qM/V7oS6UpQOxI/AAAAAAAAEvg/h8pxp86rcCE0E3rxEG_vBCFtJLWXh82IgCLcB/s640/13995505_1211627095524134_2277608672276416626_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i5pkOAR6Rs8/V7oS6mAjPkI/AAAAAAAAEvo/rWeuKfrNIPwIC05VTQjsHu6z9muynZAmgCLcB/s1600/o-TRAGICALLY-HIP-KINGSTON-570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i5pkOAR6Rs8/V7oS6mAjPkI/AAAAAAAAEvo/rWeuKfrNIPwIC05VTQjsHu6z9muynZAmgCLcB/s640/o-TRAGICALLY-HIP-KINGSTON-570.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Other than an Olympic hockey game, I have never witnessed an event like this bring so many Canadians together. The Olympics in Rio were put on hold by the CBC to air this!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5IMJTdeC_zI/V7oS61hN3dI/AAAAAAAAEv0/IhCxLbRKklUd-KyQVkl3GFYfaFFitbDDgCLcB/s1600/tragically-hip-bobcaygeon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5IMJTdeC_zI/V7oS61hN3dI/AAAAAAAAEv0/IhCxLbRKklUd-KyQVkl3GFYfaFFitbDDgCLcB/s640/tragically-hip-bobcaygeon.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I also watched the concert from the big screen in my living room, it was just my wife and I, no big crowds, or get togethers. Even if you don't like The Hip, you had to appreciate what was going on.<br />
<br />
The concert lasted three hours and had three encore performances. It was pretty amazing, and emotional. To be watching a dying man put on his last performance tugs at the emotions. I don't care who you are.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cbc.ca/player/play/748010563966/">http://www.cbc.ca/player/play/748010563966/</a><br />
<br />
Gord is a pretty amazing performer, more poet than singer. Reminds me of Dylan without the annoying voice. He moves oddly around the stage, his facial expressions sometimes looking like a crazy man, before quickly snapping back to normal, if there is a normal. I liked it. It wasn't the norm.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IBGAwTBFF2Y/V7oS6eYdE3I/AAAAAAAAEvk/EVvuHop_uN4dUbGdfkqF0LTP5H4q53MuQCEw/s1600/o-GORD-DOWNIE-570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IBGAwTBFF2Y/V7oS6eYdE3I/AAAAAAAAEvk/EVvuHop_uN4dUbGdfkqF0LTP5H4q53MuQCEw/s640/o-GORD-DOWNIE-570.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iXV91n8J-1Q/V7oS6hih5gI/AAAAAAAAEvs/mC9VU3YbBdwri_R8W2OKVySzerMrOK_2wCEw/s1600/slide_499278_6942352_compressed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iXV91n8J-1Q/V7oS6hih5gI/AAAAAAAAEvs/mC9VU3YbBdwri_R8W2OKVySzerMrOK_2wCEw/s640/slide_499278_6942352_compressed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jQnV2sRZkaE/V7oS6d-yDNI/AAAAAAAAEvc/XS6MqKdtelssAY7nw-5cgNRYgiv3yuW2gCEw/s1600/gord-downie-tragically-hip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jQnV2sRZkaE/V7oS6d-yDNI/AAAAAAAAEvc/XS6MqKdtelssAY7nw-5cgNRYgiv3yuW2gCEw/s640/gord-downie-tragically-hip.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I came to the realization at the end of the show that I knew almost every song they played. This is a band I never really paid a whole lot of attention to. How is that possible?<br />
<br />
Then I read or heard someone say "The Hip played the soundtrack to our lives" It's true, the Hip were always in the background during what I call the formative years of our lives. Out of high school, in college, or university, then shitty jobs, falling in love, settling down, and all the parties along the way, The Hip were the background music in our lives. Just like the background music in those American Pie movies that you never really noticed while watching the movie, but instantly recognized when played on the radio.<br />
<br />
So yes, I will be adding The Hip to my playlist, to play in the background for who knows how much of my life is left, or maybe it will be there to remind of how I got here.<br />
<br />
Gord...thank you for the music.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-78020461414253293712016-08-15T06:00:00.001-07:002016-08-15T06:00:59.432-07:00Riding a MarathonIn 1997 I moved from my home in Newfoundland to Nova Scotia to start a career at Air Nova. Prior to that I had been flying my arse off at Air Labrador, putting in 1000hrs a year. It doesn't sound like much, but that is a lot of work. I never had a lot of time for regular exercise so I quickly ballooned to a hefty 215lbs. To lose the weight I started running, first it was around the little lake by my place in Dartmouth. It was a struggle and it hurt, but soon I was able to shuffle through a 5k.<br />
<br />
I did a 5k running race, which then led to a 10k, then a half marathon, which led to me adding some swimming and biking to the mix. A triathlon was completed, and that pushed me to an Ironman, a couple of marathons, and ultimately an ultra marathon. Never once did I volunteer to help out a race.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TIBldvjq6Fo/V7Gpf9wB97I/AAAAAAAAEu0/uiIjp0WlL94TjmXcNNHaG8QgQOvJJXtYQCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160814_071618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TIBldvjq6Fo/V7Gpf9wB97I/AAAAAAAAEu0/uiIjp0WlL94TjmXcNNHaG8QgQOvJJXtYQCLcB/s640/IMG_20160814_071618.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
This past weekend I combined my love of all things two-wheeled with my like of running. Running and I have a love hate relationship so I'll just call it a like.<br />
<br />
The annual Marathon-By-The -Sea was this past Sunday, which saw 1800 runners compete in the 10k, half and full marathons through a very tough, hilly course in the Port City. A friend of mine, Rod Paul, is one of the co-directors of the race, and I asked him if he needed some help. Finally I was going to give back to the running community.<br />
<br />
Rod decided to put the Ruckus and I into action as the lead out rider for the marathon. Basically it's like Smokey and the Bandit. I was Bandit, minus the Trans Am, cool moustache and cowboy hat, making sure the course was clear for the lead runner, whom we will call Snowman, minus the tractor trailer load of Coors.<br />
<br />
The Ruckus and I had carte blanche to ride all over the course. It was awesome. I was riding on the wrong side of the road, sidewalks, the Harbour Passage walking trail, the Harbour Bridge, the trails in Rockwood Park, and was stopping traffic. It was all to ensure that the race leaders could go as hard as they could, safely and without interference. The roads were not closed, so we had to deal with Sunday morning traffic, which thankfully was light.<br />
<br />
It was a perfect day for a marathon, cool, overcast with drizzle and some showers. So needless to say I was dressed in full rain gear.<br />
<br />
I lead out all the runners for the first part of the race, along with the lead out riders for the 10k and half. They were on bicycles. The course went up Water Street then onto the Harbour Passage walkway, which winds it's way past the Hilton, and Long Wharf. By the time we hit the open road on Chesley Drive a pack of 7-10 runners had broken away from the main field. The 10km turn was just after crossing the Reversing Falls Bridge which is where some the faster runners turned off. Part way up Maniwagonish Road was the turn for the half. At this point there was 5 or 6 runners directly behind me, and I figured they were all half marathoners at the pace they were running. I rode up just past the turn around cone and stopped, figuring I'd have to wait a little bit for the first marathoner.<br />
<br />
All of them hit the turn around, but one. He looked at me, waved his finger in a keep going motion, and said "I'm in the marathon" Shit this guy was fast. So, fast there wasn't another runner in sight.<br />
<br />
I took off and for the next two hours it was basically the two of us. The only point on the course where you can see your competition is at the turn around in Lorneville, and this guy had a huge lead. It was pretty impressive to witness. They guy was running between 15-20kph.<br />
<br />
The marathon course is brutal, it's a lot of hills, with some trail running mixed in. There's a section of the Spruce Lake Trail, which was pretty soft gravel, and then more trail in Rockwood Park, plus some tight turns on a narrow sidewalk before the Harbour Bridge. It's not a fast open road course like Boston or New York. Having to slow down to negotiate corners, then accelerate again repeatedly is exhausting.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c5yzZfnFtUE/V7Gpf-eay7I/AAAAAAAAEvA/DJGf91_nUQA8BLSoFDLzZNuCEP_tUAS7QCEw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-08-14%2Bat%2B2.52.24%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="429" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c5yzZfnFtUE/V7Gpf-eay7I/AAAAAAAAEvA/DJGf91_nUQA8BLSoFDLzZNuCEP_tUAS7QCEw/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-08-14%2Bat%2B2.52.24%2BPM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Spruce Lake Trail</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xg4qSeJ3WjA/V7GpgOKYhMI/AAAAAAAAEvA/kWnqWaZljxo2UFEbzHZYzaxKkz3DkPA_gCEw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-08-14%2Bat%2B2.53.03%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xg4qSeJ3WjA/V7GpgOKYhMI/AAAAAAAAEvA/kWnqWaZljxo2UFEbzHZYzaxKkz3DkPA_gCEw/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-08-14%2Bat%2B2.53.03%2BPM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Once we hit Rockwood Park, we started to catch up to the slower half marathoners. At this point in the race it's hard to see if another runner is catching you. Which was the case. As we hit the open road again I noticed another guy starting to catch the leader.<br />
<br />
The leader of the marathon and I had been together for over two hours, and we had only spoken twice to each other, once at the half turnaround and once in Rockwood Park. I had to slightly veer off course to avoid a curb, and he asked me if he was to follow the trail. That's it.<br />
<br />
He was in the zone and I didn't want to bother him with chit chat.<br />
<br />
However I thought as we got closer to the finish line, I was going to pull alongside him, ask him his name, and congratulate him on a fine performance. Once he crossed the finish line I figured I wouldn't get the chance.<br />
<br />
The second place runner was going to ruin my chance of that. With less than a kilometre to go, it's turning into a sprint finish, and I'm right alongside witnessing it. This was so cool. I felt bad at the same time. Here was this poor bastard who led the race for 41km, and could possibly lose within sight of the finish line.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7DznqTR6vqE/V7GpgVhjgwI/AAAAAAAAEvA/v8jrSBKlopgQ7qv2H4w8GJkuaz4gTgNAgCEw/s1600/raceleaders.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7DznqTR6vqE/V7GpgVhjgwI/AAAAAAAAEvA/v8jrSBKlopgQ7qv2H4w8GJkuaz4gTgNAgCEw/s640/raceleaders.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The battle for first</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rgJ-yNSXxkY/V7Gpf-9ZuDI/AAAAAAAAEvA/vxejj1haWWUdsEDRwvWKiEuUN9jnddldQCEw/s1600/IMG_20160814_075042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rgJ-yNSXxkY/V7Gpf-9ZuDI/AAAAAAAAEvA/vxejj1haWWUdsEDRwvWKiEuUN9jnddldQCEw/s640/IMG_20160814_075042.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As a volunteer, you have to be neutral in your support of the runners, but I couldn't at this point. I turned around and looked him in the face and yelled "dig deep!" Not that he wasn't already. I have no idea where he found the energy but he surged and held off the last minute charge from the second place runner and crossed the finish line first, <b>FOUR</b> seconds ahead of the next runner. Four seconds separated two runners after 42.2km. Nuts! 2:42 was the winning time.<br />
<br />
Turns out the winner was Ryan O'Shay, a New Brunswick boy from New Maryland, and I did get to congratulate him, and shake his hand. He told me he was toast at the 28km mark, and a sprint finish wasn't the way he wanted to finish the race.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3tIRtMokASk/V7G3szeGt7I/AAAAAAAAEvM/qqNiAhyZArgX_gkfCQPk8BO5KDg0r14lgCLcB/s1600/ryan-o-shae.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3tIRtMokASk/V7G3szeGt7I/AAAAAAAAEvM/qqNiAhyZArgX_gkfCQPk8BO5KDg0r14lgCLcB/s400/ryan-o-shae.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The Ruckus turned out to be perfect for the marathon, the big tires enabled me to easily negotiate the trail sections, pop over curbs, race down sidewalks, and it was quite comfortable after three hours in the saddle.<br />
<br />
This is where the scooter is far superior to the motorcycle. It would have been exhausting riding a motorcycle at those slow speeds for so long.<br />
<br />
I had a lot of fun, was inspired by all the runners, and cannot wait to do it again next year. I might even be inspired enough to do a half marathon next year. Might be.......or maybe I'll just stick to my 7K trail run.<br />
<br />
<br />
What's next?? The Guzzi maybe going on the selling block, and what replaces it will remain a mystery. Another adventure is in the works, and it maybe of even grander proportions than the Labrador one.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-2970886308810693292016-08-08T04:43:00.001-07:002016-08-08T04:51:43.576-07:00The Next RideThe Ruckus has reignited my passion and affinity for scooters. The ease of use...... just get on, twist the throttle, and go with a big shit eating grin on your face. No clutch or running through the gears. Simplicity at its finest.<br />
<br />
The Guzzi is not even a year old yet, and my mind is wandering to a replacement for it already. A bigger scooter, a maxi-scooter as they call them. The Honda City ADV mentioned before would be quite a beast if it ever makes it to the shores here. Although the Honda City that it is based on is a Euro model only, so I think it maybe doubtful. I really should be living in the old country.<br />
<br />
So what are the other options? Let's face it, I don't ride off road, and I have the Ruckus for my short jaunts onto the gravel or the odd trail. I don't need to go balls to walls on a KTM. Most of my longer trips are on pavement or smooth gravel at the worst, so I really have no need for a big ADV bike, as cool as they are.<br />
<br />
I do want to start doing some longer touring trips, and keep up my yearly New Jersey trip for work, so a long distance capable stead is needed. I know you can tour on anything, but being able to jump on the interstate from time to time and cruise at 120kph is nice. Sometimes you just need to get somewhere fast. So my eye has wandered to the maxi scooters!!!<br />
<br />
I know, you're all thinking.......WTF, a scooter, dude turn in your man card.<br />
<br />
I've pretty much ridden and owned all types of bikes, sport, cruiser, ADV, dirt, so I have nothing to prove, and I really don't give a shit. Ride one and you'll get it, whether you admit it or not.<br />
<br />
The maxi scooters provide a big engine with a CVT so no shifting, loads of cargo space, and the weather protection is awesome, especially in our neck of the woods where it's cold and wet. The Suzuki Burgman for example has 50L of underseat storage, two glove boxes, and electrically adjustable windscreen, plus heated grips, heated seats, and can cruise the interstate at 120kph with the cruise control on.<br />
<br />
What are the options? There's the above mentioned Suzuki Burgman 650, BMW C650GT, the Yamaha TMAX and that's about it. Kymco has a 500, but there are no dealers in the area. In my neck of the woods the Suzuki and Yamaha are down the street where Tim Hovey owns the dealership, and BMW is an hour away in Moncton. Honda has a 300, as does Vespa, but they don't cut the mustard.<br />
<br />
The BMW C650GT is a luxury touring scooter, no doubt about that. 647cc engine putting out 60hp (10 more than the Guzzi), but weighing in at whopping 261kg, with an even more whopping price tag of $11550.00. That however is before you add the Highline Canada package which is another $750 and gives you heated seats, grips, and tire pressure control. Another $1K for luggage rack and top case, because like a good BMW owner it has to be the overpriced OEM one. Now it's a $13200 scooter, plus an enormous freight charge, PDI, admin fees, and of course tax.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKxLeYBKoxY/V6hnGi4KsbI/AAAAAAAAEts/ArZAZr0GEcYFH1KXhurzsUT-MkJEKjQpQCLcB/s1600/012612-2013-bmw-c650gt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKxLeYBKoxY/V6hnGi4KsbI/AAAAAAAAEts/ArZAZr0GEcYFH1KXhurzsUT-MkJEKjQpQCLcB/s640/012612-2013-bmw-c650gt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Those Europeans know how to have so much fun. "Let's head to the beach in Nice this weekend my darling"</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vcJMBKFT1fE/V6hnGZ_6nWI/AAAAAAAAEto/dr3wJWYshPMLTglUkH8gQoWpJqu9Luv3wCLcB/s1600/052713-2013-bmw-c650gt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vcJMBKFT1fE/V6hnGZ_6nWI/AAAAAAAAEto/dr3wJWYshPMLTglUkH8gQoWpJqu9Luv3wCLcB/s640/052713-2013-bmw-c650gt.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
That's a lot of cash, or credit. But that does get you a pretty damn comfortable, fast scooter that will tour quite easily with the big boys, and not take up too much space in the garage.<br />
<br />
Downside.......it's $13K, and the closest dealer is an hour away which can be a pain in the arse with warranty and servicing. The Guzzi is living proof of that.<br />
<br />
Next up the Yamaha TMax. I've had a thing for these for quite awhile. It't considered the sport bike of scooters and it has put more than one motorcycle rider to shame.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usoUjG2c08s/V6hnnpgo6uI/AAAAAAAAEt4/yxdUDhv3xCIWRAOJRWbWfR_BBdSuZzUVQCLcB/s1600/2012_YAM_XP500HMRS_EU_NA_ACT_001_03_gal_worlds_full_tcm114-553854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usoUjG2c08s/V6hnnpgo6uI/AAAAAAAAEt4/yxdUDhv3xCIWRAOJRWbWfR_BBdSuZzUVQCLcB/s640/2012_YAM_XP500HMRS_EU_NA_ACT_001_03_gal_worlds_full_tcm114-553854.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yes folks, that is a Roland Sands Tmax.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4_twz3Baa-4/V6hnni2IYdI/AAAAAAAAEt0/9VNRf-oXu48PLHtkcMFVQiAKnRhVoF0xwCLcB/s1600/2016_YAM_XP500SP_EU_DNMS_STU_001_03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4_twz3Baa-4/V6hnni2IYdI/AAAAAAAAEt0/9VNRf-oXu48PLHtkcMFVQiAKnRhVoF0xwCLcB/s640/2016_YAM_XP500SP_EU_DNMS_STU_001_03.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKebE7W9PL8/V6hnnrcRfLI/AAAAAAAAEtw/4s-GmDxSDrAzkPgmWHSZv4J3RKQJBheHQCLcB/s1600/yamaha-tmax-6_600x0w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKebE7W9PL8/V6hnnrcRfLI/AAAAAAAAEtw/4s-GmDxSDrAzkPgmWHSZv4J3RKQJBheHQCLcB/s640/yamaha-tmax-6_600x0w.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
More Europeans having fun.</div>
<br />
<br />
Although it is down on engine size compared to the BMW and the Burgman at 530cc it is quite a bit lighter in weight, tipping the scales at 220kg, 50kg lighter than the Suzuki! More than making up for the loss in displacement.<br />
<br />
It doesn't have the finer accoutrements that the Beemer and Burgie have, lacking an electrically adjustable windshield, heated seats or even heated handgrips. It does have a keyless system, but that is not a selling feature for me. The underseat storage is also smaller, so a top box is necessary.<br />
<br />
Retail price is $10499, but with a rack, top box, liner, and tunnel bag it's only $11268. Plus the dealer is down the street.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6U3cfgtjgyk/V6hoJhy7USI/AAAAAAAAEuA/CauO2wfpXj83JCOS6vIRVOb9lRAiFGN5gCLcB/s1600/2013-suzuki-burgman-650-abs-launched-in-uk-price-announced-video_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6U3cfgtjgyk/V6hoJhy7USI/AAAAAAAAEuA/CauO2wfpXj83JCOS6vIRVOb9lRAiFGN5gCLcB/s640/2013-suzuki-burgman-650-abs-launched-in-uk-price-announced-video_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think this guy might be North American. He looks a little more serious, and couldn't find a date.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YSQWTNn3U5s/V6hoL0TxnKI/AAAAAAAAEuI/LF8UO-gf-q47Xj7ApUNsW_OxZd8PGE-IgCLcB/s1600/2013-suzuki-burgman-650-is-all-new-photo-gallery_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YSQWTNn3U5s/V6hoL0TxnKI/AAAAAAAAEuI/LF8UO-gf-q47Xj7ApUNsW_OxZd8PGE-IgCLcB/s640/2013-suzuki-burgman-650-is-all-new-photo-gallery_8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Also down the street and in the same showroom is the Suzuki Burgman 650. Some say this is the Goldwing of touring scooters, and just by looking at one and reading the reviews I'd have to agree.<br />
<br />
It is a 633cc, 277kg beast of a scooter. Really the only scooterness to it is the CVT. It comes with an electrically adjustable windscreen, heated grips, seat, cruise control, and has a massive amount of storage, both in the glove boxes and underneath the seat. 50l of storage under your arse. Enough for any weekend adventure.<br />
<br />
The Burgman is on sale right now for $10500, and really needs no accessories.<br />
<br />
What all these scooter boast is all day riding comfort, whether it's backroads or droning along on the interstate. You are completely protected from the elements, which is what makes these great commuters as well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LnJOrWhQK5E/V6hocwMcl5I/AAAAAAAAEuQ/UR4ssw5XQVsawWEYHgx5OgEr-TaAnJtNgCLcB/s1600/Burgman_650_Executive_04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LnJOrWhQK5E/V6hocwMcl5I/AAAAAAAAEuQ/UR4ssw5XQVsawWEYHgx5OgEr-TaAnJtNgCLcB/s400/Burgman_650_Executive_04.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Apparently chicks dig the maxi scooters too. Although her choice in riding attire is doubtful. Maybe she is on her way to work at Moxie's.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ov1WYfbL1ns/V6hoeAXN58I/AAAAAAAAEuU/vpwvShBslSUYwZ9jfMDDO_CuDPB8x0bcQCLcB/s1600/MotorcyclevsScooterPartII9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ov1WYfbL1ns/V6hoeAXN58I/AAAAAAAAEuU/vpwvShBslSUYwZ9jfMDDO_CuDPB8x0bcQCLcB/s640/MotorcyclevsScooterPartII9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The BMW is a big scoot compared to the Honda NC700X.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So what would I buy? Hard to say. I'd rule out the Beemer on price alone. The Tmax has soul, if anything other than a Vespa has soul. It's more like a sport touring bike disguised as a scooter. The Burgman........it ticks off everything on the list of must haves for touring, but just seems boring. There is always a compromise. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now, I'm just looking and probably won't buy anything. But after having a hard look, the scooter seems to fit my lifestyle more than a bike. 90% of my riding is commuting to work, where the added weather protection and luggage space is an asset. The rest of my riding consists of the two to three road trips I take a year. Once again the added comfort of a maxi-scooter is an asset. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Who knows what the future will bring.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course the Russian bike with the sidecar is still in my dreams</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-20558474868116326962016-07-26T06:53:00.002-07:002016-07-26T06:53:56.257-07:00Bikes......Scooters........Why I Love the Step Through CVT'sI blame it all on my parents.....my affinity towards scooters that is. It's all their fault, and I'd like to thank them, because in hindsight they probably saved my life.<br />
<br />
I've had a motorcycle licence since I was 16 years old. The year was 1985, and I lusted after the latest and greatest sport bikes. The Honda Interceptor 500 was what I dreamed about. It was state of the art at the time, and was a two-wheeled weapon for the road. By todays standards it's pretty meek and mild, but back in the day it was all I could dream about.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-utEdLPNOlWo/V5dgeUeoqzI/AAAAAAAAEs4/Ehr_6II-tYAXEXhlvabdw40DHEWt9XXrwCEw/s1600/Honda%2BVF500F.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-utEdLPNOlWo/V5dgeUeoqzI/AAAAAAAAEs4/Ehr_6II-tYAXEXhlvabdw40DHEWt9XXrwCEw/s640/Honda%2BVF500F.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My dreams of being like Fast Freddie Spencer however were dashed when I ended up with a Honda Elite 125 instead. If the Interceptor 500 was a weapon for the road, the Elite was a spoon from the cutlery drawer.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, compared to my friends armed with bicycles, and a bus pass, I was loving the 125cc of scooterness. I was free to fly, and it was my first taste of independence. Much like my daughter Maggie is experiencing now with her Honda Giorno.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hdPGJC7UpX4/V5NdgZ_50XI/AAAAAAAAEsI/ciiZIa3yGbw3wyY8HJ0zZdLm7rvD6acLwCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160722_114630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hdPGJC7UpX4/V5NdgZ_50XI/AAAAAAAAEsI/ciiZIa3yGbw3wyY8HJ0zZdLm7rvD6acLwCKgB/s640/IMG_20160722_114630.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I rode the piss out of that thing, still pretending I was Fast Freddie on the Interceptor. The fact that my parents would not allow a real motorcycle into the house most likely saved my life. At 16 years old, you're pretty much an idiot. Some of us never outgrow that. I'd like to think I have now, at the age of 47, but let's be real, I still have my moments. Being a testosterone fuelled 16 year old with visions of being a MotoGP racer on sport bike probably would not have ended too well for me. Luckily the Elite accelerated at the speed of smell, and would reach a top speed of 100kph, downhill with a tailwind. It took the entire length of the Harbour Arterial to get it to warp speed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIApNkphj7uQc0l3yz4Yy22tOCrFAaxZ0sOVuCzBW-XjcXuVU-gHflv6qVWHUMvqjBcmvpPZDOM2dbkUfhtL8fzUUAtXcwURuZiYMqHkogDKcrSuooXZc5joQ1jSuHXeAnoBb87EmDRgp-/s1600/2392273673_8128b9b12e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIApNkphj7uQc0l3yz4Yy22tOCrFAaxZ0sOVuCzBW-XjcXuVU-gHflv6qVWHUMvqjBcmvpPZDOM2dbkUfhtL8fzUUAtXcwURuZiYMqHkogDKcrSuooXZc5joQ1jSuHXeAnoBb87EmDRgp-/s640/2392273673_8128b9b12e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I became aware of our mortality at a young age, when a BMX riding buddy of mine, who was also a talented motocross racer died on my dream bike the Honda Interceptor 500.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-INzSAyJ5Z6s/V5dgec57MeI/AAAAAAAAEs4/2k7UIAZaMaQNKNehTRCRmfeZv0AFbzxVgCEw/s1600/Honda%2BVF%2B500f%2B84.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-INzSAyJ5Z6s/V5dgec57MeI/AAAAAAAAEs4/2k7UIAZaMaQNKNehTRCRmfeZv0AFbzxVgCEw/s640/Honda%2BVF%2B500f%2B84.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
McDonald Drive in St. John's, NF is pretty straight road through a residential area in the east end of the city. It begins at the T- intersection of Logy Bay Rd. Oliver's Store used to be there. I bought a lot of Hubba Bubba and Fun Dip there.<br />
<br />
My friend Robbie Cook was headed south on Logy Bay Rd, turned onto McDonald Drive by Oliver's Store headed westbound. The speed limit is 50km/hr.<br />
<br />
Motorcycles have an insane power to weight ratio, and can accelerate to triple digit speeds in a heartbeat. Even a 1984 Honda Interceptor was fast.<br />
<br />
Robbie took the turn at Oliver's and pinned it, cresting a blind hill at more than double the speed limit. At the same time an elderly woman in a car was further down McDonald Drive headed in the opposite direction, and was making a left turn onto one of the side streets on her way home. There was almost no way she could have seen Robbie. She would never, in a thousand years, thought a motorcycle would be coming up that road at that rate of speed.<br />
<br />
He hit the back quarter of the car as she was part way through the left turn. The force of the impact spun the car almost 360 degrees. Robbie was thrown from the bike and hit a telephone pole and mailbox. He survived the initial crash, but sadly succumb to his internal injuries a week later.<br />
<br />
A foolhardy mistake robbed a family of their child, we lost a friend, and an elderly woman was traumatized for life. Robbie was the first person that was my age to die. It was a big deal, and it rocked all of us.<br />
<br />
It was then I realized that my parents were looking out for me by not allowing a big bike into the house, because that easily could have been me doing that stupid shit.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, I know I could, and can be easily smucked by a dumbass inattentive driver at an intersection, but life is a risk, and when it's your time........it's your time. However doing stupid shit that speeds up our departure from this life is something we can control.<br />
<br />
So, I have an affinity to the scooter because of this. If I was allowed to buy that Interceptor 500, I most likely would have never, ever given a scooter a second, or even any glance at all.<br />
<br />
My early years on that Honda Elite are some of my fondest memories. I loved that thing.<br />
I think my reason for liking scooters so much now is it brings me back to the past, and the good times I had, making me feel younger again.<br />
<br />
The other day I was giggling in my helmet while riding the Ruckus around. I'm wearing Vans sneakers like the ones I had in high school, and I once again have braces on my teeth. Well, now they are called Invisalign, and I'm ripping around town on scooter like it was 1985 again, and I'm still listening to Stiff Little Fingers and The Clash. The only way it could be any better was if Rick Mercer was sitting on the back of the scooter and we were headed to Geoff Brown's place to partake in some smoking of the Mary Jane.<br />
<br />
<br />
Honda is releasing a new scoot later this year. If it actually makes it to Canada is another question. However this new scooter is as close to a cross between an ADV bike and scooter as you can get. It's based on the engine in NC750X. So yes it is big and relatively powerful.<br />
<br />
It's the new City ADV. I mean it looks like an Africa Twin step through, kinda. I love the damn thing. That...... right there, will be enough for me to give up the Guzzi and go full on scooter. Assuming of course, Honda Canada imports it for sale, and it's not just relegated to the European market. The Euros get all the cool bikes and cars. Bastards.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BulPktHuC2U/V5dgeTh1PKI/AAAAAAAAEso/lgVPfKrWvOIvSJgmSwyuuCwTJXBG6gvQwCLcB/s1600/Honda-City-Adventure-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BulPktHuC2U/V5dgeTh1PKI/AAAAAAAAEso/lgVPfKrWvOIvSJgmSwyuuCwTJXBG6gvQwCLcB/s640/Honda-City-Adventure-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hFEjvggKXpI/V5dge9XgdlI/AAAAAAAAEs4/fciYHXqAPrMwoLD7C8Xn4lz3340D4aG2ACEw/s1600/city_adventure_concept.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hFEjvggKXpI/V5dge9XgdlI/AAAAAAAAEs4/fciYHXqAPrMwoLD7C8Xn4lz3340D4aG2ACEw/s640/city_adventure_concept.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tVwK4rqjmgk/V5dge_lxVaI/AAAAAAAAEs4/sDJml0Gh7yYRrq5zL0cxQk-fOrTFtYCZwCEw/s1600/honda-city-adventure-patents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tVwK4rqjmgk/V5dge_lxVaI/AAAAAAAAEs4/sDJml0Gh7yYRrq5zL0cxQk-fOrTFtYCZwCEw/s640/honda-city-adventure-patents.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The above are concept versions of the scoot, however Honda has confirmed it's going into production, and even released a teaser video. I have my fingers, toes and and anything else I cross, crossed hoping it shows up on a dealers floor near me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/cIckttNOzBc/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cIckttNOzBc?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know I'll be ridiculed and made fun of for riding a scooter, but I don't care. I'm 47 years old, I don't give a shit about what people think anymore. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Come on Honda........bring it to Canada, I promise I'll buy one.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-9469365874089698032016-07-23T05:24:00.000-07:002016-07-23T05:24:32.514-07:00A Rucking Good TimeThe past couple of weeks I've been getting to know the mighty Ruckus. It's limitations, there are many, and what it does well. Not so many. We have just over 300km on the little beast so far, and everyone in the family is loving it so far.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hdPGJC7UpX4/V5NdgZ_50XI/AAAAAAAAEr8/_WtIyaNRH28yuddEDPf3uCIlFn2GcUkpQCEw/s1600/IMG_20160722_114630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hdPGJC7UpX4/V5NdgZ_50XI/AAAAAAAAEr8/_WtIyaNRH28yuddEDPf3uCIlFn2GcUkpQCEw/s640/IMG_20160722_114630.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GG1QggEv5bY/V5Ndf_EOvAI/AAAAAAAAEro/WJXc7E36N2Ia3XpHG4Qw1zQFMuigRfEegCEw/s1600/IMG_20160715_135414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GG1QggEv5bY/V5Ndf_EOvAI/AAAAAAAAEro/WJXc7E36N2Ia3XpHG4Qw1zQFMuigRfEegCEw/s640/IMG_20160715_135414.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
My oldest daughter Maggie spent the day riding it on her scooter training course at Motorcycle Safety Quest. This week she passed all her written tests, did the road test and is now a fully licensed scooter girl. I am a very proud and worrying father now. She has since ditched the Ruckus for her Honda Giorno.<br />
<br />
My youngest, Katie, who can't even get her licence for another two years is using the Ruckus as a minibike. She's tearing up laps around the yard, and on the green space across the street.<br />
<br />
The big reason I bought the Ruckus over a Yamaha BWS50 was the low seat height, so it was easier for the girls to ride, and I think it is much cooler looking.<br />
<br />
I've been using it mostly for running around town, where it has proved to be quite a good little commuter, getting 170km on 4l of gas. Not too shabby.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c5NoXt_6E00/V5Ndf8TC8XI/AAAAAAAAErs/6gK1gTBs5-o1x_3yOHQtn7k0Em_G86ZsgCEw/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c5NoXt_6E00/V5Ndf8TC8XI/AAAAAAAAErs/6gK1gTBs5-o1x_3yOHQtn7k0Em_G86ZsgCEw/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QPx4n1RkhF8/V5NdgVEIbvI/AAAAAAAAEr0/D6eCgL1BLPQ-cp_PX-5g5SYm1uglZ-K2QCEw/s1600/IMG_1855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="608" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QPx4n1RkhF8/V5NdgVEIbvI/AAAAAAAAEr0/D6eCgL1BLPQ-cp_PX-5g5SYm1uglZ-K2QCEw/s640/IMG_1855.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The huge limiting factor is the 49cc engine, it's anemic, but I guess, what can you expect with 4hp, and a CVT. Steep hills really slow it down. I rode some that are 7-12%, and the little GET engine struggles, but will grind it's way up, slowing from 50kph to 30kph. This would be an amazing scoot with a 125cc engine. Which is an option available.<br />
<br />
Even though the little Ruckus doesn't have enough power to get out of it's own way, it's a total hoot to ride, and puts a huge smile on my face. It just takes a little attitude adjustment after coming off the big bike. It's not about speed. It's about fun. The big tires also make it pretty capable off road, as long as you go slow, it's no KTM, or even an XT250. The suspension is meek at best, the big tires soak up the worst of the bumps. But if you're willing to putt along at a snails pace the Ruck will more than get you there. Gravel roads are where the Ruck likes it best. Like FAR A Routes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2nDa2IJOv9c/V5NdgaQHkVI/AAAAAAAAEr4/H0HDbziJo8AgVoFvFcV5X4VIDjMy1qasACEw/s1600/IMG_20160720_110517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2nDa2IJOv9c/V5NdgaQHkVI/AAAAAAAAEr4/H0HDbziJo8AgVoFvFcV5X4VIDjMy1qasACEw/s640/IMG_20160720_110517.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wQTcxC528PI/V5NdgPmfq4I/AAAAAAAAErw/75VZeD8E0eo8pX51HOYXjTeLbyK-lB6nQCEw/s1600/IMG_20160720_110454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wQTcxC528PI/V5NdgPmfq4I/AAAAAAAAErw/75VZeD8E0eo8pX51HOYXjTeLbyK-lB6nQCEw/s640/IMG_20160720_110454.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The other downside to the Ruckus is the lack of storage. Most conventional scoots have underseat storage. The Ruckus kinda does, the seat opens up, but it is really only good for storing a backpack. It's all open underneath. I have my old Wolfman tank bag in there right now and it does the trick. I did order a storage kit, that encloses the area underneath the seat. The nice thing is that it still leaves some open storage area toward the back for strapping down a dry bag.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mKgK-9QtA4w/V5NdU4q-TrI/AAAAAAAAEsE/nW0EcDJECCgU_fLuv02s1g3sGUKMbKzBwCEw/s1600/%2524_57-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mKgK-9QtA4w/V5NdU4q-TrI/AAAAAAAAEsE/nW0EcDJECCgU_fLuv02s1g3sGUKMbKzBwCEw/s640/%2524_57-2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ar-MuMZ4x4c/V5NdU2dQbpI/AAAAAAAAEsE/OrYXCEsLkcsqIK87bP9Xl2ylbVJDhivgQCEw/s1600/%2524_57.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ar-MuMZ4x4c/V5NdU2dQbpI/AAAAAAAAEsE/OrYXCEsLkcsqIK87bP9Xl2ylbVJDhivgQCEw/s640/%2524_57.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I thing the Ruck would make a good little kite surf exploration vehicle. Kitesurfing requires little gear, kite folds up small and the board is not that big. Plus you can ride it right up the beach. Big tires, big fun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z74tLF0E0lk/V5Nf7REtZhI/AAAAAAAAEsQ/PfTI885dJOEJS4eVa8lKhiO2yIpSB9vIQCLcB/s1600/12010535_10153094974707452_5832205352993584171_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z74tLF0E0lk/V5Nf7REtZhI/AAAAAAAAEsQ/PfTI885dJOEJS4eVa8lKhiO2yIpSB9vIQCLcB/s320/12010535_10153094974707452_5832205352993584171_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hgSu-JIu49c/V5Nf7tHhNTI/AAAAAAAAEsU/FCJ55OMBbL0daGgNcGH78yw9MSts_zmwACLcB/s1600/origin_colours.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hgSu-JIu49c/V5Nf7tHhNTI/AAAAAAAAEsU/FCJ55OMBbL0daGgNcGH78yw9MSts_zmwACLcB/s320/origin_colours.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjVuY7ZHZRKfVLKkALvXC6uI1nWeB3BMzNZaVVOBIl0qS2YAYzKMjjWOMgrkgIIeoS0yiZ-DPYJ8jaV7tF8OTE-76ny_13PlPOqO4Nkg0-7luqjNG2Z9LWOUYaiGv7C3oR1cLc5C5jDjt/s1600/IMG_20160722_120259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjVuY7ZHZRKfVLKkALvXC6uI1nWeB3BMzNZaVVOBIl0qS2YAYzKMjjWOMgrkgIIeoS0yiZ-DPYJ8jaV7tF8OTE-76ny_13PlPOqO4Nkg0-7luqjNG2Z9LWOUYaiGv7C3oR1cLc5C5jDjt/s640/IMG_20160722_120259.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The other benefit to the Ruckus is if I decide to take a surf/windsurf trip to say PEI or the Magdalen Islands, it gets loaded in the truck with the rest of the gear, and I have some cheap, fun transportation while I'm there. No wind or surf, explore time on the scoot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next update.......thoughts on going full on scooter, and ditching the Guzzi. </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-28461339639660851982016-07-07T09:21:00.002-07:002016-07-07T09:21:47.747-07:00Life in the Slow LaneThe throttle is pinned and I am rocketing uphill at a blistering 30kph. The 49cc of fury underneath my arse cannot do anymore to propel me up the increasingly steep hill. It's a good thing this is a rural road with little traffic. Truth be told, except for going downhill, or coming to a stop, my right hand has been cranked for the whole ride. Such is life aboard a Honda Ruckus.<br />
<br />
Yes folks my new steed is the Ruckus, one of Honda's most popular, much loved and modded scooters. I've been in love with the fat tyred, bugged eyed, dual headlamped, step through since I first laid eyes on it. The damn thing just looks cool, as cool as a scooter can look, at least with a grown adult on it.<br />
<br />
What started as a trip to the local Honda dealer to get my daughter a cute little scooter, quickly turned into the purchase of two scooters. My wife under a moment of weakness and some gentle prodding from her husband suggested we get two scooters. So we walked out the door with a slightly poorer bank account, but richer in two wheeled motorized bikes, a Honda Giorno, and Ruckus.<br />
Like I've said you cannot have two many bikes in the garage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sSIxlw6AEO8/V35pvcAu_3I/AAAAAAAAEqE/fdCB1L1zFFgx8IwPZ1S-RYpR2J7C8UJggCLcB/s1600/13592286_1749297635352297_1161319559731266264_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sSIxlw6AEO8/V35pvcAu_3I/AAAAAAAAEqE/fdCB1L1zFFgx8IwPZ1S-RYpR2J7C8UJggCLcB/s640/13592286_1749297635352297_1161319559731266264_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can tell by the smiles that the girls love them. Katie has another 2 years before she can get her licence, but has already wore a dirt path around the yard on the Ruckus.</div>
<br />
<br />
So now we have an Italian (the Guzzi) a wannabe Italian (Honda Giorno) and a bug eyed freak of scooter that will soon be masquerading as an ADV bike. Who says you need a 1200GS to have an adventure. Just ask Mike, who put on 40000 miles on his Ruckus.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/hm8t5WWYctI/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hm8t5WWYctI?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This morning I took the Ruckus out for a good little spin, time to see what this beast could do, or could not do. Now coming off a motorcycle, you have to readjust the way you approach riding. Nothing, I mean nothing happens fast. It doesn't accelerate fast, get up to speed (60kph) fast, and oddly enough doesn't slow down fast. (drum brakes). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o_Ke1JIQYqM/V35w24Gt-xI/AAAAAAAAEqU/jpY87LaC8WMgZnzTUnlTKzdxY_8LY8W7gCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160707_103112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o_Ke1JIQYqM/V35w24Gt-xI/AAAAAAAAEqU/jpY87LaC8WMgZnzTUnlTKzdxY_8LY8W7gCLcB/s640/IMG_20160707_103112.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The suspension is not all that great, bumps taken at speed tend to unsettle the scoot, but not to the point of being out of control. At speeds over 50kph it's noticeable that the wheels need balancing, there seems to be some wobbling going on. Mind you it's only brief forays when the speedo needle moves north of 50 anyway. Add that to the character of the scoot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qoed4H55cIg/V35xAk0ky8I/AAAAAAAAEqY/LeZP0kSIlTsp7q9QnkGRXqf4d-wRBJ3xwCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160707_103127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qoed4H55cIg/V35xAk0ky8I/AAAAAAAAEqY/LeZP0kSIlTsp7q9QnkGRXqf4d-wRBJ3xwCLcB/s640/IMG_20160707_103127.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The brakes........well it is 2016 I believe and I'm not sure why any manufacturer would put drum brakes on anything with two wheels. I mean my $1400 bicycle has disc brakes. To put it bluntly the drum brakes suck.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kWv7nNuc2wQ/V351z2wWVII/AAAAAAAAEqk/Xwa8WvT3LKAvhZ8PQHpj6ea8gboHdP3-wCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160707_121901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kWv7nNuc2wQ/V351z2wWVII/AAAAAAAAEqk/Xwa8WvT3LKAvhZ8PQHpj6ea8gboHdP3-wCKgB/s640/IMG_20160707_121901.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For being only a 49cc scoot, it is quite comfortable for my 6'1" frame. The handlebar is quite tall and wide, almost like a dirt bike or dual sport bike. The seat is wide and comfortable, and at no time did I feel cramped. Instrumentation is bare bones basic, a speedo, with ODO, and high engine temp light. Next to it is a single turn signal light. A low fuel light (comes on when 1L of the 5L tank remains) and high beam light are below. Really what more do you need?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D_1PtHrmB-c/V351zwrlljI/AAAAAAAAEqo/0a-g10CThqQi3B2ZIHIZBTnzM9ZJH02vwCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160707_121925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D_1PtHrmB-c/V351zwrlljI/AAAAAAAAEqo/0a-g10CThqQi3B2ZIHIZBTnzM9ZJH02vwCLcB/s640/IMG_20160707_121925.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There is no storage on the scoot, nadda, none. However there is space for storage, if that makes sense. The seat lifts up, and my old Wolfman tank bag fits inside perfectly, and didn't even have to be strapped down. So now I have a place to store extra gloves, rain gear, paperwork, etc.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think my old Gears saddlebags that I just used on the Guzzi will fit as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HnbTaiclTZE/V355Ze7te6I/AAAAAAAAEq8/8Uh_QwlbHsEJy9cQ4ftKn73OzbT14hMFQCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160707_124316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HnbTaiclTZE/V355Ze7te6I/AAAAAAAAEq8/8Uh_QwlbHsEJy9cQ4ftKn73OzbT14hMFQCLcB/s640/IMG_20160707_124316.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-10qufP6wsSY/V351z6dnYGI/AAAAAAAAEq0/XoUWdrr-d3g9k8Li3bn9x7q_0q2GKj53ACKgB/s1600/IMG_20160707_121913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-10qufP6wsSY/V351z6dnYGI/AAAAAAAAEq0/XoUWdrr-d3g9k8Li3bn9x7q_0q2GKj53ACKgB/s640/IMG_20160707_121913.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Scoot also comes with a kickstarter for back up. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What are my plans? Basically turning this already great scoot into a mini ADV bike. First test will be the Fundy Adventure Rally. I plan on riding it up, and doing the single day, solo 250km self guided tour/scavenger hunt. Might turn into a 10-12hr day, but that will be the adventure part. I'm guessing I'll be solo too, since no ADV bike rider will want to putt along at 30-50kph for the whole day, unless I can find another Ruck minded person out there to join me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then of course there is next years Mad Bastard, which will be the highlight of 2017. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are a few mods needed, a windscreen would be nice, and a set of handguards, and for both rallies I'll need to carry extra fuel, which I can strap to the floor between my feet. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Overall I love the damn thing, flaws and all. I'm at a point in my life when I no longer need or want to go fast, and revel in the simpler things in life. I'm already dreaming of some crazy, fun adventure trips on the thing. Multi day trips to explore different areas. Backroads tour around New Brunswick, the TLH again once Quebec finishes the ATV path from Natashquan to Blanc Sablon. The possibilities are endless.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-68712805744014149472016-06-28T09:03:00.000-07:002016-06-28T09:03:51.639-07:00The Mad Bastard Scooter RallyIf you've have browsed through this blog at all, you'll know that I have a small fascination with the scooter. My first street-legal bike was a 1984 Honda Elite 125 that I dearly loved. At sixteen years old it was my first taste of freedom and independence. I was no longer dependant on my parents or public transport to get me where I wanted to go. Yes, and I heard enough of the "fat chick and, riding a scooter" comparison jokes to last me a lifetime.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UuMx25Y-3J8/V3KNR0DKm0I/AAAAAAAAEo0/W0YRpiYSnPca3nD9h6YNXqkCG_WsjVhOACLcB/s1600/13521925_1148861301822821_3320581825017720786_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UuMx25Y-3J8/V3KNR0DKm0I/AAAAAAAAEo0/W0YRpiYSnPca3nD9h6YNXqkCG_WsjVhOACLcB/s640/13521925_1148861301822821_3320581825017720786_n.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The Mad Bastard Scooter Rally has been on my radar for a longtime. I found out about it when I met Rob from Canada Moto Guide. The rally was one of his evil genius ideas thought up, after I'm guessing one too many scotch fuelled evenings. It started as a trip around Lake Ontario with a long term test Honda Ruckus for CMG and then grew into a crazy assed event that is now run by the scooter giant Kymco. I'll let the original Mad Bastard tell you more about it in this tribute video to the big man himself.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/167406625" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe><br />
<a href="https://vimeo.com/167406625">Rob Harris Tribute, MBSR the movie.</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/teckvlog">TECK VLOG</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
The rally is only held every two years, so 2017 is the next one. I'd have to say this is a bucket list item for me, even more so since Rob's passing.<br />
<br />
The upcoming rally will be held in London, Ontario at the end of June. Lovely time of year and a lovely part of southern Ontario. It's not for the faint of heart, and is no doubt a riding challenge. Distances are usually in excess of 500km, that's a hell of long way on scooter........ in a day. But nothing worth doing is easy.<br />
<br />
So now I need a scooter, preferably 50cc, so I can enter in the straight jacket class. That is of course unless I can find a 1984 Elite 125 in decent working order and I can go the nostalgia route.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIApNkphj7uQc0l3yz4Yy22tOCrFAaxZ0sOVuCzBW-XjcXuVU-gHflv6qVWHUMvqjBcmvpPZDOM2dbkUfhtL8fzUUAtXcwURuZiYMqHkogDKcrSuooXZc5joQ1jSuHXeAnoBb87EmDRgp-/s1600/2392273673_8128b9b12e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIApNkphj7uQc0l3yz4Yy22tOCrFAaxZ0sOVuCzBW-XjcXuVU-gHflv6qVWHUMvqjBcmvpPZDOM2dbkUfhtL8fzUUAtXcwURuZiYMqHkogDKcrSuooXZc5joQ1jSuHXeAnoBb87EmDRgp-/s640/2392273673_8128b9b12e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are plenty of used 50cc scooters for sale. The Honda Ruckus which is by far my favourite however it still fetches a hefty price tag, but would be pretty cool set up as an adventure tourer or........</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w3CJ6LHjxns/V3KURVRNAOI/AAAAAAAAEpc/Kay1Dqmoy3MiA80ZRRprdZMLoLxmloe4QCLcB/s1600/IMG_0340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w3CJ6LHjxns/V3KURVRNAOI/AAAAAAAAEpc/Kay1Dqmoy3MiA80ZRRprdZMLoLxmloe4QCLcB/s640/IMG_0340.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SiQYrGL2ut8/V3KURRZoc1I/AAAAAAAAEpU/Bvu92unjDmcq7cErXOP4RZ3qTzNRstXSwCLcB/s1600/Picture014-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SiQYrGL2ut8/V3KURRZoc1I/AAAAAAAAEpU/Bvu92unjDmcq7cErXOP4RZ3qTzNRstXSwCLcB/s640/Picture014-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
......as the Sons of Anarchy wannabe. After all it is a scooter rally where everything is made fun of, and costumes are encouraged.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7LUh_66eiw/V3KNRqlv-HI/AAAAAAAAEpA/erldkpGKOcsBPERLriUFNXy9CO8uYxHgQCKgB/s1600/50d186232bce50d0e1a019f7f94184f2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7LUh_66eiw/V3KNRqlv-HI/AAAAAAAAEpA/erldkpGKOcsBPERLriUFNXy9CO8uYxHgQCKgB/s640/50d186232bce50d0e1a019f7f94184f2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Other options are Yamaha's BWS 50</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bksV_iTSW8c/V3KUEzh8hrI/AAAAAAAAEpM/EHni4PLUkCobgbD8iNz81AoT7rjJGLm8gCLcB/s1600/%2524_27-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bksV_iTSW8c/V3KUEzh8hrI/AAAAAAAAEpM/EHni4PLUkCobgbD8iNz81AoT7rjJGLm8gCLcB/s400/%2524_27-2.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbHmAcV48x6McB3qZdRFWROPeY3FfRz_fGR91_HkcpmuALbbvt_Q34PiP5lGvXrsERar0rjZxivUssbiv0mQ7wBxKZRwJo2BuV9r90r6iXk751NKxIACwcAohGQB5H_PceIlnn434ZEbz/s1600/%2524_27.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbHmAcV48x6McB3qZdRFWROPeY3FfRz_fGR91_HkcpmuALbbvt_Q34PiP5lGvXrsERar0rjZxivUssbiv0mQ7wBxKZRwJo2BuV9r90r6iXk751NKxIACwcAohGQB5H_PceIlnn434ZEbz/s400/%2524_27.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What would be really cool, is to do this with my daughter. Maggie will be fifteen this year and she can get her scooter licence for 50cc and under. However I'm not so sure she'd be up for an adventure of this magnitude. It would be a good trip for her, see a different part of the country, have some father daughter bonding time, and meet an eclectic group of people</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My youngest, Katie certainly would, but we'll have to wait for the 2019 running of the rally.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
How will this shape up? Who knows, might be another one of my dreams that never makes it off the page. Then again something needs to get going soon, it's been too long since I've had a proper adventure. Kill two birds with one scooter, Fundy Rally and The Mad Bastard on 50cc of Fury.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-60616220907656519652016-06-25T03:40:00.002-07:002016-06-25T03:40:47.223-07:00Keep PedallingThe Great Cycle Challenge is coming to a close. So far I have hauled my ass 900km on my bicycle for the month of June. Only another 100km to go. Tomorrow, June 25th I'll squeeze in another 50km and Sunday I'll try and get another 100km to surpass my goal of 1000km. I've raised almost $1300 for sick kids. Not bad for a guy who really has no friends and generally doesn't like people.<br />
<br />
What's next then? Well, I really love riding my bike, love riding it long distances. Something peaceful, and zen like about spending long hours in the saddle. Also there is a raw, isolation of sorts. I mean it's just you and a machine working in harmony to propel you along the road. It's very basic, and I like basic.<br />
<br />
I'm not gonna lie, the Trans America Bike Race is lurking in the depths of my mind. If you don't know what that is, then let me educate you...... or you could just watch "Inspired to Ride" on Netflix. The Trans America Bike Route was established in 1976 to celebrate the United States bicentennial. It was a route for cyclists to traverse the continent. Typically riders would start in Astoria, Oregon and head eastward to Yorktown, Virginia, 4400 miles and 10 states later. The route was put together by the <a href="https://www.adventurecycling.org/about-us/" target="_blank">Adventure Cycling Association</a>, which is celebrating it's 40th anniversary.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7buA-ZXNLO4/V25e41e2EvI/AAAAAAAAEoM/eljOi2PdCBIhWIkbJSXMEVkp_n0h-w6sgCLcB/s1600/Advent1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7buA-ZXNLO4/V25e41e2EvI/AAAAAAAAEoM/eljOi2PdCBIhWIkbJSXMEVkp_n0h-w6sgCLcB/s400/Advent1.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
In 2014 Nathan Jones decided to have a race following the Trans America Bike Route, hence the Trans America Bike Race was born. There is no race fee, no prize money, and no support what so ever. Basically show up at the starting line and go. Forty racers showed up for the inaugural event, along with a film crew.<br />
<br />
Mike Dion who also filmed his attempt at another self supportive race, the mountain bike race, Race the Divide, was on hand with a film crew to record the big event. The movie "<a href="http://watch.inspiredtoride.it/" target="_blank">Inspired to Ride</a>" has been inspiring trans continental racers ever since, including myself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESkWuelDiqQ/V25e47A1qLI/AAAAAAAAEoY/ZUXH_u0sPqUouk19r9oJKvtypzh5RkvigCLcB/s1600/Inspired-to-Ride-DVD_109b9da3-6f8d-41b1-a6f3-3e3ae0168fc5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESkWuelDiqQ/V25e47A1qLI/AAAAAAAAEoY/ZUXH_u0sPqUouk19r9oJKvtypzh5RkvigCLcB/s320/Inspired-to-Ride-DVD_109b9da3-6f8d-41b1-a6f3-3e3ae0168fc5.png" width="277" /></a></div>
<br />
These types of races are very grassroots affairs, and really will only cater to certain individuals. I mean really, how many people would consider riding their bike, let alone race it across the country. The rules are pretty simple, start in Astoria, and finish in Yorktown. The clock always runs. So the first one to the finish wins. If you can ride fast, consistent on little sleep, you will rock it. No drafting, no outside help that is not available to any of the other racers. i.e., mom can't help you, but a local bike shop can.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gGZXXoChSMw/V25e47QtbMI/AAAAAAAAEoQ/gSxOpbbApzEkUlw3FleMs06MeYAokRZAwCKgB/s1600/EClark_140622_8160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gGZXXoChSMw/V25e47QtbMI/AAAAAAAAEoQ/gSxOpbbApzEkUlw3FleMs06MeYAokRZAwCKgB/s400/EClark_140622_8160.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mike Hall of the UK</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DtNvnrBvqr4/V25e5M4PnJI/AAAAAAAAEoU/W9rDfPYdYAEsBCdP7LadJ3EZ_0uwm2RtgCKgB/s1600/lael-wilcox-source-trans-am-bike-race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DtNvnrBvqr4/V25e5M4PnJI/AAAAAAAAEoU/W9rDfPYdYAEsBCdP7LadJ3EZ_0uwm2RtgCKgB/s400/lael-wilcox-source-trans-am-bike-race.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lael Wilcox of Alaska</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Mike Hall won the first race, and still holds the record. 17 days 16hrs. He was riding over 260 miles or 418km a day!!! I find that hard to wrap my head around. This years winner was Lael Wilcox from Alaska in 18 days, the first woman to win the race. Not only did she beat everyone, but she also rode her bike from Alaska to the start line in Oregon.<br />
<br />
A race like this scares the shit out of me. It's not a single day affair like an Ironman or an ultra marathon, it's riding a bike fourteen to sixteen hours a day for three or four weeks. There's no rain day or day off. It's ride Sally ride. The distance itself is difficult to imagine, close to 7000 km of pedalling, over the Rocky mountains, across the plains, and relentless ups and downs of the Appalachians. Oh ya, let's not forget the weather, 30-40C, down to just above freezing and snow. I'm thinking it would be THE toughest thing I have even contemplated.<br />
<br />
Now, this is not in my immediate future, but it is on the radar. Right now I have get in one hundred kilometres before Sunday. After that, a two hundred kilometre day, and then maybe by late summer, a 400km day. Just to see if I can do it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-23086412022204200642016-06-18T11:11:00.000-07:002016-06-18T11:11:34.629-07:00My Arse is Sore Again......280km on a BicycleOK, so I've changed the name of the blog again, hopefully for the last time. Change is good though. Last fall I bought a new bicycle. It's a Specialized Tri Cross, a cyclocross bike. Basically it's like a road bike with bigger tires, disc brakes and lower gears. I hadn't done any real biking since my triathlon days. As you know I was briefly toying with the idea of doing another Ironman, which of course is hard to do without a bike.<br />
<br />
I spent most of the winter biking indoors on the bike trainer, and soon found out that I would rather spend a good 90mins biking than running. Once spring finally arrived, I started riding outside and began running less and less. So I shelved my triathlon plans and just continued to ride.<br />
<br />
The Tri Cross bike with it's bigger tires, 32mm verses the 21mm on my old tri bike, and the more relaxed frame geometry made riding enjoyable again. Rural roads in New Brunswick leave a little bit to be desired, a patchwork quilt of asphalt repairs, potholes, cracks, and chip seal make for a rough ride. Like riding the cobbles of Paris Roubaix. The larger tires and lower air pressure make these roads a lot more comfortable to ride on. What I'm really trying to say is.....the new bike makes riding enjoyable again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HeLVDstLcBY/V2VWoaneWII/AAAAAAAAEnA/cu5OEeapbtMZz_XGjiGGakkE1O_darNOwCLcB/s1600/13411634_1731148843840143_7624388174907232970_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HeLVDstLcBY/V2VWoaneWII/AAAAAAAAEnA/cu5OEeapbtMZz_XGjiGGakkE1O_darNOwCLcB/s640/13411634_1731148843840143_7624388174907232970_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
What I really wasn't prepared for was the hills. I never realized how many hills there are in New Brunswick. I'd get back from a ride and look at the data from my Garmin, and the elevation profile looked like a row of sharks teeth. What doesn't kill ya, makes ya stronger.<br />
<br />
The spring wore on and my rides continued to get longer and longer, 30k, 50k, 90k, and 100k. Like the motorcycle, I enjoyed spending hours on bicycle, seeing the world at a relaxed pace, and pushing my body to go further and further.<br />
<br />
I signed on to ride in the <a href="https://greatcyclechallenge.ca/Riders/TerryBurt" target="_blank">Great Cycle Challenge</a>. It's a fundraiser for sick kids across Canada battling cancer. Something no kid or parent should have to go through. So being a dad with two healthy kids at home I felt an obligation to contribute, help out and give some meaning to riding my bike. I pledged to raise $1000, and ride 1000km in the month of June. Thanks to the many that donated I have surpassed my goal $1000, and I am currently pedalling slowly towards the 1000km.<br />
<br />
I decided to get in some serious mileage this week since I was off work and headed out for a two day trip. It was gonna be like a motorcycle road trip, ride somewhere over night and ride some more.<br />
<br />
Day one I planned for about 160km, it would be my longest ride since I did the Ironman in 2000. Looking back I don't know how I rode 180km in under 6hrs and then went on to run a marathon. My brother in law has a cottage in the Village of Gagetown so I figured that would be a good stop for the night.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m56!1m12!1m3!1d89021.3763457024!2d-66.2821317953287!3d45.79287028197348!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m41!3e1!4m5!1s0x4ca7ad5a31d43013%3A0xee1bfb0043633c69!2s1+Netherby+Rd%2C+Rothesay%2C+NB+E2H+2Y4!3m2!1d45.3479198!2d-66.02618799999999!4m5!1s0x4ca64e9929523c3b%3A0x1a3084dacdfb69fc!2sGrand+Bay-Westfield%2C+NB!3m2!1d45.3614925!2d-66.2416978!4m5!1s0x4ca6872bf26dee79%3A0x53b3502aae780fad!2sFredericton+Junction%2C+NB!3m2!1d45.662936099999996!2d-66.6131432!4m5!1s0x4ca67e6764806f69%3A0x6185b66db249b5d1!2sTracy%2C+NB!3m2!1d45.6768431!2d-66.6829181!4m3!3m2!1d45.8327646!2d-66.6729928!4m5!1s0x4ca69933bb109d03%3A0xecc3371ea5c01070!2sBurton%2C+NB!3m2!1d45.875186!2d-66.3611366!4m5!1s0x4ca6eca23b202261%3A0xffed900a6e8094f1!2s29+Old+Mill+Rd%2C+Gagetown%2C+NB+E5M+1T9!3m2!1d45.7618267!2d-66.1422572!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1466258745738" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The day started off with me over sleeping. I set my alarm for 0500, but forgot to turn it on. So now it's 0550, and I'm just opening my eyes. So much for getting out of town early. I checked the weather while eating a light breakfast and having my morning coffee. North winds at 20kph. In my face for most of the day, but not too bad. Grab my Garmin watch off the charger.......WTF it's almost dead. Why's it dead? It's been on the charger for almost an entire day. Fuck, the desktop computer is turned off. Damn it, longest ride of the year, and no Garmin. Yes I'm a <a href="https://www.strava.com/athletes/13074472" target="_blank">Strava</a> junky. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I finally rolled out of the garage just before 7am. The sun was shining, but it was cool, long sleeve jersey and leg warmers were on. The worst part of the day was the ride thru the city. Saint John sucks arse for cycling. There is no safe, easy way from east to west. There's Foster Thurston Rd, which is minefield of potholes, massive cracks, no shoulder and big hills, where there is a chance you'll be killed by a sleep deprived doctor speeding home from the hospital in his Mercedes. Then there is Rothesay Ave, flat, but, no shoulder, potholes, catch basins that are recessed 5 inches into the pavement, endless strings of traffic lights and heavy traffic. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You are not allowed to bike on Route 1, or the Saint John Thruway.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B_NAbvUonuk/V2VWo5VqkUI/AAAAAAAAEnQ/fMqgEkXEToQrHMfFhfee_os6hg9XI5b1gCKgB/s1600/13482797_1730900010531693_8254836501051288278_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B_NAbvUonuk/V2VWo5VqkUI/AAAAAAAAEnQ/fMqgEkXEToQrHMfFhfee_os6hg9XI5b1gCKgB/s640/13482797_1730900010531693_8254836501051288278_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Harbour Bridge in Saint John</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Thankfully traffic along Rothesay Ave is light at this hour of the morning and I was able to speed across the city pretty quick. I was riding into Grand Bay in just over and hour. I stopped at Tim Horton's to replenish my caffeine level and have a second breakfast. I figured there wouldn't be too many opportunities for a meal between Welsford and Fredericton Junction.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PRQW4cC4ixU/V2VWoUBTzYI/AAAAAAAAEm8/aadTb7NvR-k8QB5Q34VigVa_DYaFkDtIwCKgB/s1600/13403094_1730900013865026_9044501173782839680_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PRQW4cC4ixU/V2VWoUBTzYI/AAAAAAAAEm8/aadTb7NvR-k8QB5Q34VigVa_DYaFkDtIwCKgB/s640/13403094_1730900013865026_9044501173782839680_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm thinking the majority of patrons at the Tim's are regulars on an early Thursday morning. I had that feeling that I did not belong, and I was getting that "there's a stranger in town" look. I don't get it, a sweaty lycra clad guy stands out. What? Funny how I got lots of strange looks but no one dared to talk to me. "Don't talk to him George, the exercise may wear off on you" Ok, ok, that's my inner asshole talking. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I fought my way through the Grand Bay - Westfield commuter, rush hour traffic and continued up Route 177 to Welsford. Once out of the Grand Bay area, traffic almost becomes void and it's a pleasant ride. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I stopped at the Irving in Welsford, loaded up on water and had a pee break. The 101 north was all new to me and I wasn't quite sure of what services there were. It was 75km to Fredericton Junction and I did not want to run out of water.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtLWfqSahrw/V2VWou8Ba6I/AAAAAAAAEng/lU6jEGwljdEwsFU1_6XMyArnQutMevCuACKgB/s1600/13433217_1731145817173779_1258242228677293912_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XtLWfqSahrw/V2VWou8Ba6I/AAAAAAAAEng/lU6jEGwljdEwsFU1_6XMyArnQutMevCuACKgB/s640/13433217_1731145817173779_1258242228677293912_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The 101 was a good road for the most part, only a couple of good climbs in the first part, but was made up of mostly rolling hills. The big problem was the ever increasing headwind. What started out as a light wind was now turning into a good breeze. It was quite a grind, and it never let up until I turned the corner eastbound on the 655. The trees provided some break from the wind, but any open areas I'd be pummelled by the crosswinds. The sound of the wind in my ears all day was giving me a headache. Even with my earbuds in listening to music.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4SD4tT6Viug/V2VLa1iDjaI/AAAAAAAAEmw/s8RQ6VcTDtkxJZXbVaCtGzEbNC2m7fjmQCKgB/s1600/GOPR0788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4SD4tT6Viug/V2VLa1iDjaI/AAAAAAAAEmw/s8RQ6VcTDtkxJZXbVaCtGzEbNC2m7fjmQCKgB/s640/GOPR0788.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I stopped for a break about 30km from Oromocto after putting in 80km nonstop. I topped up my water bottles, gulped down a chocolate milk, bag of M&M's and a Joe Louis. Healthy treats.<br />
<br />
The road to Oromocto was fairly flat, which was a welcome relief, because ever since passing the 100km mark, my left knee started to get a little sore. Which was a bit of worry considering I still had over 60km to go, and another 100k tomorrow. I'm thinking it maybe a slightly misaligned cleat on my shoe. At least that is what I am hoping it is. I may change out my pedals and shoes when I get home, and try out my road pedals and shoes from my tri bike. I am currently using mountain bike shoes and pedals.<br />
<br />
Traffic picked up as I inched my closer to Oromocto, but for the most part everyone gave me lots of room on the road. No haters.<br />
<br />
I had planned on stopping at McD's cause I had a craving. Riding for 6 or 7 hours will do that to you. Tim Horton's appeared on the horizon first and it was a shorter detour off my route, so a chilli deal it was. I won't lie to ya, it was nice to sit on a chair, my arse was getting sore, and I think I had the beginnings of saddle sores.<br />
<br />
It was only another 40km to the cottage, and it was a quartering tailwind, unfortunately the strong wind from earlier had faded, so the push I was hoping for was now gone. I was grateful it wasn't in my face, and the road was fairly flat because I was starting to feel the effects of a long day in the saddle.<br />
<br />
Did I mention that my arse hurt? That and I think my junk food diet was backfiring on me, and my energy levels were crashing. Oh and maybe the fact that this was my longest ride by over 60km in 16 years might, just might have something to do with it.<br />
<br />
It seemed like the longest 40km ever, and then the cruel end to the day was the two big hills just before Gagetown that left me spent, more mentally than physically.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwu839PKtj0/V2VWo_tijwI/AAAAAAAAEng/DopmR_GgFEMX2nqPkWBWJbRFs2GOlSuIQCKgB/s1600/13483259_1731145820507112_3457160798448892976_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwu839PKtj0/V2VWo_tijwI/AAAAAAAAEng/DopmR_GgFEMX2nqPkWBWJbRFs2GOlSuIQCKgB/s640/13483259_1731145820507112_3457160798448892976_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was pretty happy to reach the cottage. I wasn't completely exhausted, but tired and I had a headache. A nice cold beer, and a cold shower (no one told me you had to turn the hot water heater on) made things a lot better. It felt good to put in a big day like that, especially considering my fitness level. I figured my average moving speed was around 21km/hr. The real test would be the ride home.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1uMhXiZwhqk/V2VWoUwZffI/AAAAAAAAEng/U6c3r4Ypdn8XH8J3iV1GXDUHWAX7PK__ACKgB/s1600/13415586_1731323713822656_7820852359869873500_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1uMhXiZwhqk/V2VWoUwZffI/AAAAAAAAEng/U6c3r4Ypdn8XH8J3iV1GXDUHWAX7PK__ACKgB/s640/13415586_1731323713822656_7820852359869873500_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sunrise in Gagetown, purdy damn nice</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I woke up with the sun after sleeping for close to ten hours. I passed out around 8pm. It was a cold morning, temperature in Saint John was 2C. Ouch. Lazy breakfast and a couple of coffees it is.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpoXENCMBqI/V2VLl8GY1_I/AAAAAAAAEm0/7u2mPkq-6a0wfyRo5cahwR7eJ5qu_oB9ACKgB/s1600/IMG_20160617_073542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpoXENCMBqI/V2VLl8GY1_I/AAAAAAAAEm0/7u2mPkq-6a0wfyRo5cahwR7eJ5qu_oB9ACKgB/s640/IMG_20160617_073542.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Smoke stack from the old lumber mill.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Surprisingly my legs and butt were feeling good, new bike shorts help. Thank you Louis Garneau and your nicely padded shorts. I could feel my knee, but it wasn't painful, so I was good to go. Not that I had a choice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Right off the bat, the 102 south has a lot of hills, slow, lowest gear climbs, followed by coasting the downhills in the aerobars. Thankfully my legs felt pretty fresh, I'd even say better than yesterday. I wasn't sure how quickly I'd recover from a big day in the saddle, and was a little nervous of day two turning into a sufferfest.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yqqUyUz4IwQ/V2WHcV8KYII/AAAAAAAAEn8/hCFnXCsyCNMuB1lhklh0fo7ucaWF0lGeACLcB/s1600/IMG_20160617_090732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yqqUyUz4IwQ/V2WHcV8KYII/AAAAAAAAEn8/hCFnXCsyCNMuB1lhklh0fo7ucaWF0lGeACLcB/s640/IMG_20160617_090732.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After Evandale the road levels out for awhile, and I was able to make good progress. The sky was clear and it was warming up nicely. Traffic was very light, and that was a welcome situation. Sometimes ten to fifteen would go by without seeing another vehicle. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GtfySzqeoWY/V2WE2qUxOTI/AAAAAAAAEnw/lQmh1xHdpMQpgFjcvQfGO1k7CTGLd2GyQCLcB/s1600/GOPR0801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GtfySzqeoWY/V2WE2qUxOTI/AAAAAAAAEnw/lQmh1xHdpMQpgFjcvQfGO1k7CTGLd2GyQCLcB/s640/GOPR0801.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IXSqVCJwKFM/V2VLbrejCzI/AAAAAAAAEmw/yJ3BCXdkX4IokTNniYgSbA19Qujhsp1hwCKgB/s1600/GOPR0799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IXSqVCJwKFM/V2VLbrejCzI/AAAAAAAAEmw/yJ3BCXdkX4IokTNniYgSbA19Qujhsp1hwCKgB/s640/GOPR0799.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxJspMzxFZc_VXtmp93bMDdVAsaWHRf-FTA_Ykqm1NZDkH6Eo6Ko9ijf03eoMaVjF8jHBQC155TPuefg01c' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Brown's Flat is not flat, at least the road isn't anyway. The low gear, out of the saddle climbs begin again at "Brown's Flat" Luckily at the top of the first climb is an Irving, which has coffee. So after a small jolt of caffeine and sugar, I purchased the last Mae West on the rack, and refilled my water bottles, for the final 53km push home. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The wind is back and it was picking up quickly. Luckily it was a tailwind this time, and I felt good like I was actually moving quickly. Unfortunately the closer I got to Saint John the more the traffic picked up. It wasn't too bad until I hit the westside, and had to make my way across the bridge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The ride up Rothesay Ave on a Friday afternoon was miserable, and I was now back into a headwind gusting to 45kph, and jostling a constant stream of cars. It basically sucked big hairy donkey balls. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you plan on cycle touring through New Brunswick avoid Saint John like the plague during the day, come thru during the wee hours of the morning, or just don't come this way. The next time I'll take the ferry from Westfield and come across the Kingston Peninsula. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m34!1m12!1m3!1d714558.3186947746!2d-66.52946108943765!3d45.605751807263076!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m19!3e1!4m5!1s0x4ca6eca23b202261%3A0xffed900a6e8094f1!2s29+Old+Mill+Rd%2C+Gagetown%2C+NB+E5M+1T9!3m2!1d45.7618267!2d-66.1422572!4m5!1s0x4ca64e9929523c3b%3A0x1a3084dacdfb69fc!2sGrand+Bay-Westfield%2C+NB!3m2!1d45.3614925!2d-66.2416978!4m5!1s0x4ca7ad5a31d43013%3A0xee1bfb0043633c69!2s1+Netherby+Rd%2C+Rothesay%2C+NB+E2H+2Y4!3m2!1d45.3479198!2d-66.02618799999999!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1466272037627" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe><br />
<br />
So what did I learn? My legs will outlast my arse, and I need a new seat. I have an email in to my friend at Cyclesmith looking for a Brooks saddle. Supposedly one of the finest for riding any distance. My right cleat maybe slightly out of whack causing my knee pain. The Blackburn bike luggage, is awesome, and worked perfect, as did the lighting system I have. I had a couple of comments on how bright the headlight was even in full daylight. Riding at a "touring" pace is way nicer than a full on aerobar 180km Ironman time trial. I have a whole different level of respect for the folks racing in the Trans America Bike Race. 4200miles. Doing 200-300 MILES a day is incredible.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/PYbWn5IMoYc/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PYbWn5IMoYc?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've watched this a few times, and one of these years, I'll be there.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-23608804027633614442016-05-22T06:39:00.002-07:002016-05-22T12:25:37.060-07:00My Arse is Sore. Over One Thousand Kilometres on a GuzziThe last week has been a rough one. Rob's passing on my second night away took the wind out of my sails before I even arrived in Jersey to start five days of training, and at times like this you just want to be with the ones you love. So after two full days of ground school, and three days in the simulator it was time to get home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qkmx98ug240/V0GstAW8xfI/AAAAAAAAEhs/D8IpgmskEZgB9KZI4FYpTMs8o9k3rLyuwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qkmx98ug240/V0GstAW8xfI/AAAAAAAAEhs/D8IpgmskEZgB9KZI4FYpTMs8o9k3rLyuwCLcB/s640/IMG_2633.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My flying schedule for the next week also has me away from Tuesday to Friday, so I decided to Iron Butt it home all in one day. Just over 1000km. It would be the longest, single day ride I have ever taken.<br />
<br />
I had the trip planned out on Garmin Base Camp, 1005km and a moving time of 9hrs 45mins. The plan was to take the George Washington Bridge, with it's money liberating $15 toll, then connect with the Merritt Parkway, then the <b>I</b>84, <b>I</b>290, <b>I</b>495, <b>I</b>95, <b>I</b> Am Lost, <b>I</b> Don't Know, <b>I</b> Don't Like the Interstate, and <b>I</b> Hate Toll Booths.<br />
<br />
That was the plan anyway.<br />
<br />
Friday night, my training partner, windsurfing, dog walking, trail running, and drinking buddy, Pudge (apparently his real name is Jim) celebrated the end of our last sim session as we always do.....in the hotel bar. Chicken wings and too many IPA's were consumed leaving me a little foggy at 4am on Saturday. Not an auspicious start to the day.<br />
<br />
It was a nice predawn morning in East Rutherford, sky was clear and it was 13C. I loaded up the bike gave it a quick once over and headed off into the darkness at 0500. I left early to avoid the infamous NYC traffic.<br />
<br />
I only road the bike once since arriving in Jersey. Thursday I took a run over to Motorcycle Mall, the local Guzzi dealer, as well as Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Ducati, Victory, Aprilla, KTM, Polaris, Kymco, MV Augusta, and Yamaha. It's huge. I wanted to pick up a litre of engine oil to have, just in case. It was cool to see that many bikes all in one place, especially Guzzi's. They had the entire line of V7's, including the new Sternello, the new V9's, a Griso, Audace, and the beautiful Eldorado. I can see myself with one of those, and an Africa Twin in the garage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4YYt6F05YrA/V0GtBUMjfcI/AAAAAAAAEh4/eGGMEwl8PVoOZtHMMUYUHH2TPIcoO3XMwCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160519_102846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4YYt6F05YrA/V0GtBUMjfcI/AAAAAAAAEh4/eGGMEwl8PVoOZtHMMUYUHH2TPIcoO3XMwCLcB/s640/IMG_20160519_102846.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
New V7 Sternello Scrambler</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jt--Y4lsbZA/V0GtBXAhTOI/AAAAAAAAEh0/gIfv5x29-Kk8jr60XGlgzRdqdRwJnEpyQCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160519_102937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jt--Y4lsbZA/V0GtBXAhTOI/AAAAAAAAEh0/gIfv5x29-Kk8jr60XGlgzRdqdRwJnEpyQCLcB/s640/IMG_20160519_102937.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The V9's</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4oV-8gd2hTw/V0GtBiwlS5I/AAAAAAAAEh8/9uc8K6TLmdoH-QE-uJlgqmnR8qEX54CTgCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160519_103052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4oV-8gd2hTw/V0GtBiwlS5I/AAAAAAAAEh8/9uc8K6TLmdoH-QE-uJlgqmnR8qEX54CTgCLcB/s640/IMG_20160519_103052.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ducati MultiStrada Adventure</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b85_Q-b7FJc/V0GtBvN95rI/AAAAAAAAEiA/U8GRDTHKZWsdNRKdikbxZG0bZ0f8gLYBACLcB/s1600/IMG_20160519_104125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b85_Q-b7FJc/V0GtBvN95rI/AAAAAAAAEiA/U8GRDTHKZWsdNRKdikbxZG0bZ0f8gLYBACLcB/s640/IMG_20160519_104125.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The brand spanking new MG21 Flying Fortress</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pswPZgMHgM0/V0GtBvCJOFI/AAAAAAAAEiE/xOhYRShssPA3hpQyyROgfdXVNRuY33adgCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160519_105031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pswPZgMHgM0/V0GtBvCJOFI/AAAAAAAAEiE/xOhYRShssPA3hpQyyROgfdXVNRuY33adgCLcB/s640/IMG_20160519_105031.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
Setting off from the hotel, I had a rough idea of how to get over the GWB to cross the Hudson River to New York. The almighty (Garmin) was the voice in my head leading me in the right direction.......right up until I came to the on ramp for the I95, which was closed. The detour sign was of no help and I just ended up riding in circles around the Gillette Stadium in the dark. Garmin was bound and determined to put me back on the closed on ramp. Fuck. I managed to find my back to the area near my hotel and reset Garmin and told it to take me home the fastest route instead of the preprogrammed route I had made with Basecamp.<br />
<br />
I had planned on fueling up in Westchester, NY about 60km away, since I was down to about 1/4 of tank, but since I was now riding around aimlessly in Jersey, why not save time, and get gas now. When paying at the pump in the US, most gas stations outside of Maine require you enter a zip code of your address that is attached to your credit card. Not possible if you have a postal code, resulting in having to go inside and prepaying. <br />
<br />
The kind gas station attendant, who apparently was also Canadian, but I'm guessing by the accent, his journey to America originated in India, showed me a neat trick to cheat the system. Say your postal code is A<b>1</b>A<b>3</b>S<b>9</b>, enter the numbers only 139 followed by 00. 13900. Works like a charm.<br />
<br />
I was finally on the move again, and made to the GWB, where $15 later I was now in the state of New York. Since I had the route change, Garmin kept me on the I95, and I was now headed into the Bronx, where I am glad it is not the 1970's. I'd be lucky if I made it out of there alive.<br />
<br />
It's Saturday morning, it's not even 6am yet and there is a tonne of traffic, it's moving well, but it's busy. Do people sleep or take a day off around here?<br />
<br />
My plan for a quick escape from NYC is thwarted when four lanes of traffic comes to almost a standstill. The road info sign above is kindly telling all of us that there is an accident ahead with major delays. Double fuck. Of course in typical NYC fashion, everyone is trying to change lanes in order to gain a two car length advantage on the next commuter, there are wall to wall tractor trailers, and then there is little ol' me on on my svelte Italian stead.<br />
<br />
I know lane splitting is not legal, except in California, and the rest of world outside of North America, but being Canadian, with a foreign plate I figured if by the small chance I get caught I'll fake a Quebecois accent and plead ignorance. So nonchalantly I begin a slow weave through the traffic, that is moving at a first gear, clutch slipping pace. It's one of the times I'm glad I never had a sidecar.<br />
<br />
Before long I make my way to the accident scene, a couple of badly crumpled yellow cabs and pieces of yellow cabs are laying at odd angles occupying three lanes of the interstate. Sorry I never stopped for pics. Once clear of that mess it was clear sailing.<br />
<br />
The rest of the ride home was uneventful, I had a nice tailwind, and Guzzi was cruising comfortably at an indicated 120kph, which translated to 113kph on Garmin. I wasn't flying, but I wasn't worried about being pulled over by the boys and girls in blue either.<br />
<br />
Traffic was moderate for a Saturday morning, I was either passing someone or someone was passing me. The traffic really doesn't let up until Freeport, then it just disappears and your by yourself on the road.<br />
<br />
Best part of the day, and thankfully it was near the end was the Airline, or Route 9 from Bangor to Calais. It's a wonderful stretch of single lane, with enough hills and curves to make it interesting. With a speed limit of 55mph, it's the Guzzi's happy place, and after a long day of interstate droning, it kept me awake and wonderfully entertained.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S7MGeFOCeIo/V0GtB1wUkmI/AAAAAAAAEig/O7iiGZNhudwfXUZHmYyx4z7d0tfYiwjYwCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160521_071513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S7MGeFOCeIo/V0GtB1wUkmI/AAAAAAAAEig/O7iiGZNhudwfXUZHmYyx4z7d0tfYiwjYwCKgB/s640/IMG_20160521_071513.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-axKRIWZa1_o/V0GtBziOyaI/AAAAAAAAEig/6Oen5shPM4MaPVSk21RBKIMim4UDOD4ewCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160521_071547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-axKRIWZa1_o/V0GtBziOyaI/AAAAAAAAEig/6Oen5shPM4MaPVSk21RBKIMim4UDOD4ewCKgB/s640/IMG_20160521_071547.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Z3Mree8Scs/V0GtB4DAdCI/AAAAAAAAEig/siX685ajprwfNuCuEWhqLNZEpzjr_In3QCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160521_134225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Z3Mree8Scs/V0GtB4DAdCI/AAAAAAAAEig/siX685ajprwfNuCuEWhqLNZEpzjr_In3QCKgB/s640/IMG_20160521_134225.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a long day when I finally got home, almost 12hrs of being constantly on the move. I stopped twice for more than 15mins. The rest were gas and goes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Guzzi turned out to be a very worthy steed for a long trip, 1000km in day was a bit too long, comfort wise, but I wouldn't hesitate taking it on a cross Canada trip. A casual 600km a day would be wonderful. It just goes to show that you do not need a $30K Gold Wing to see the world.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignMF0Qn3d2pc_xln5Yy5TQGkgijlW7Nm_9SfOoQE-d-MwyEMkBp8G7ouLCweLKFbZuiuSlGpP3dOwJz8jbodAbY17o9rbny5Nsy1k0DUoANjRkroVmrnck-0Ry-1K4R_ilyoFXVuSzP77/s1600/13254639_10153819573238051_3891473964978436117_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignMF0Qn3d2pc_xln5Yy5TQGkgijlW7Nm_9SfOoQE-d-MwyEMkBp8G7ouLCweLKFbZuiuSlGpP3dOwJz8jbodAbY17o9rbny5Nsy1k0DUoANjRkroVmrnck-0Ry-1K4R_ilyoFXVuSzP77/s640/13254639_10153819573238051_3891473964978436117_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rob's memorial was held in Toronto yesterday, and on the long ride home my thoughts were with him and his family.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then something weird happened.....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once I was back in Maine I turned off the Garmin voice guidance to my Sena and started listening to music on my phone. I put on the whole playlist and hit shuffle. Everything from Van Halen to Stompin' Tom Conners. Just after I cleared Canada customs in St. Stephen, one song ends and then a voice starts talking to me about a 1200GS. It's Rob's voice, explaining how well the GS does off road. It sends cold shivers through me, and tool me completely off guard. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last fall I helped Rob with a short video review of the R1200GS, he sent me an audio file with a narrative. Somehow when I updated my music on my phone, that file made it's way there too, unbeknownst to me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It freaked me out to say the least.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/141698803" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe>Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2648258158189916257.post-5107990636392831012016-05-20T07:52:00.002-07:002016-05-22T03:17:28.978-07:00Gear ReviewLast Friday, the 13th of May, I started my annual road trip to East Rutherford, New Jersey for recurrent flight training. Since I am spoiled private jet pilot that never sees an airport terminal, or has to go through airport security, the mere thought of having to fly commercially makes me....well sick. Jammed into an uncomfortable seat next to people you really don't want to be around, and then having to wait hours at another airport for a connecting flight, etc, etc, etc. It sucks. If you watch the news, the line ups at TSA are off the hook. Three hours to clear security.......WTF.<br />
<br />
So each year I make it a motorcycle trip, which is way better, even if it is to Jersey. This year I took three days to get here, took my time and saw the sites along the way.<br />
<br />
I made the pilgrimage to the school of flight on the Guzzi this year. I was a little hesitant since it was a smaller bike, and with the clutch issues from last fall, wasn't 100% confident in it's abilities to deliver me to school on time. I certainly didn't want to have a tardy on the first day. Part of my problem is reading bike specific forums, where mechanical issues of a few owners can dominate a thread, and before long your doubting the mechanical abilities of your motorcycle, even though there is nothing wrong.<br />
<br />
The Guzzi performed flawlessly, and turned out to be a surprisingly good, and comfortable touring bike. No problem pulling 120kph on the interstate, and easy to put in a long day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vTBiygg7Kkk/VyCPmQTCXRI/AAAAAAAAEfQ/0vkaDxT5AXMj7Yno7XvBN58G1nzmtQjqgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160416_150604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vTBiygg7Kkk/VyCPmQTCXRI/AAAAAAAAEfQ/0vkaDxT5AXMj7Yno7XvBN58G1nzmtQjqgCKgB/s640/IMG_20160416_150604.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Prior to leaving I added a few things to the Guzz, to make it more comfortable for the 1200km trip to The Garden State.<br />
<br />
Top priority was the Dart Merlin Flyscreen, that I reviewed before. It is a must have to ride comfortably at speeds over 100kph for any length of time. It doesn't provide the protection the Strom Givi screen did, but it more than does the trick.<br />
<br />
I had a set of old Gears, soft saddlebags that I threw on, they were less than $100 new, and work pretty good. They are expandable and hold quite a bit of stuff. I keep some tools, tire plugs, air compressor, bike cover, rain gear, jacket liners, and spare gloves in them.<br />
<br />
I will say the rain covers suck. Water pools at the bottom, and soaks through the bag. The easy solution was to stuff my gear inside the rain covers, and put it all in the saddle bag. Viola, problem solved.<br />
<br />
My trusty Airhawk seat cushion was also added. The stock seat is not bad for day trips, but for three days of riding, one which was close to 11hrs, the added butt comfort was welcome. I don't think any seat is perfectly comfortable after 10 hours.<br />
<br />
The FirstGear tank bag I bought, worked really well, and the GPS pouch was awesome. It's not too big, but is also expandable in case I need to squeeze in a few pints of microbrew.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--tjvewd6-VI/VzynHOKjksI/AAAAAAAAEgM/fAGYQ63VsdUYDin0opGzuve9Yfjv3as6ACLcB/s1600/IMG_2634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--tjvewd6-VI/VzynHOKjksI/AAAAAAAAEgM/fAGYQ63VsdUYDin0opGzuve9Yfjv3as6ACLcB/s400/IMG_2634.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qce-WUSN4ww/VzynHD0zxPI/AAAAAAAAEgQ/Ul5BBRcTZmUarSPICdJ5NnHAqmY5GIAmACLcB/s1600/IMG_2636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qce-WUSN4ww/VzynHD0zxPI/AAAAAAAAEgQ/Ul5BBRcTZmUarSPICdJ5NnHAqmY5GIAmACLcB/s400/IMG_2636.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All zipped up with the GPS hidden from site. Nice cellphone pouch. I can quickly glance to see if I have any messages waiting.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bzKxBot_jys/VzynHCREUNI/AAAAAAAAEgU/QBmvOpiGVKUKNmcPnkj-Sm_GdzKhQy6uACLcB/s1600/IMG_2637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bzKxBot_jys/VzynHCREUNI/AAAAAAAAEgU/QBmvOpiGVKUKNmcPnkj-Sm_GdzKhQy6uACLcB/s320/IMG_2637.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I keep toll money in this pocket, it closes with velcro. The bag also comes with clips if you do not want to use the magnet attachments, or have a plastic tank.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bDu14SMZ8ZU/VzynIZMvkSI/AAAAAAAAEgc/I3kf0rSemsopD1fanWRU6RKPRJehlsBBACLcB/s1600/IMG_2638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bDu14SMZ8ZU/VzynIZMvkSI/AAAAAAAAEgc/I3kf0rSemsopD1fanWRU6RKPRJehlsBBACLcB/s320/IMG_2638.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Magnetic attachments</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7COYMuzwo4I/VzynIaEmghI/AAAAAAAAEgY/V_NSzZ2CIq4bFAuMoTXQb5NqGRLYXMM2wCLcB/s1600/IMG_2639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7COYMuzwo4I/VzynIaEmghI/AAAAAAAAEgY/V_NSzZ2CIq4bFAuMoTXQb5NqGRLYXMM2wCLcB/s400/IMG_2639.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lots of room for stuff, plus two exterior side pockets.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YNj2nWlzMEk/VzynIQwzTMI/AAAAAAAAEgg/mwpy0fiLV-URNZ_cKGLPsgcuFD8c-DPmACLcB/s1600/IMG_2640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YNj2nWlzMEk/VzynIQwzTMI/AAAAAAAAEgg/mwpy0fiLV-URNZ_cKGLPsgcuFD8c-DPmACLcB/s640/IMG_2640.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
GPS pocket. Touch screen on the Zumo works through the plastic cover.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Only downside is it's not waterproof. There is cover that comes out of a pocket at the front of the bag, but I have yet to use it. My experience when riding in the rain is, deflection from the windscreen prevents the bag from getting wet. I rode for an hour on Friday on the I95 in light to moderate rain and don't think there would be a need for the cover unless I was parked somewhere.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKCC3n_3afqoTyWQjTA_W9kZ9PFHCFEwHj1ICARsEooNREzgGSfbt14k4FHK2DFp0bJ-_P-uZ6TADSxi_zhp9pLS7_I_6xCkoKEDKn4w09jcZh9DWEnbU917dFPDxUcvDCVoseTxr5Ls7/s1600/IMG_2641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKCC3n_3afqoTyWQjTA_W9kZ9PFHCFEwHj1ICARsEooNREzgGSfbt14k4FHK2DFp0bJ-_P-uZ6TADSxi_zhp9pLS7_I_6xCkoKEDKn4w09jcZh9DWEnbU917dFPDxUcvDCVoseTxr5Ls7/s640/IMG_2641.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Until recently I only had one full faced helmet. My old Icon Alliance was 9 years old and had seen better days so that was retired from service quite awhile ago. I have a Bell Bullitt, which is nice, but the retro look also has a retro noise level at speed. It's extremely noisy and drafty. I am not a fan of ear plugs so that idea was out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I spent a lot of time researching helmets, wanted something quiet, comfortable and light. I knew that came with a premium price tag. I looked at Schubert but the one I wanted was not available in my size and the others were a cool $1K. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I stumbled on to the Shoei RF-1200 Terminus. The graphics were kinda old school and matched the Guzzi, and the helmet received great reviews. I was looking for something that was quiet since my head was no longer tucked behind a big windscreen. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sizing was a gamble since I ordered it from <a href="https://www.canadasmotorcycle.ca/shoei-rf-1200-terminus-helmet.html" target="_blank">Canada's Motorcycle</a>. Typically I wear a size small in a Bell helmet, except the Bullett, which was a little tight in that size. My LS2 Bobber helmet is a medium and fits well. The small would have been too snug. I guess my old noggin is a medium/small. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I ended up ordering a medium and it fits perfect. First impression......beautiful helmet, great graphics.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zV4HWYWTYOg/VzynJVYTPWI/AAAAAAAAEg4/EHrsWOjYZQ0iPtxrMWo4CRQfMo1C9UYPQCKgB/s1600/IMG_2642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zV4HWYWTYOg/VzynJVYTPWI/AAAAAAAAEg4/EHrsWOjYZQ0iPtxrMWo4CRQfMo1C9UYPQCKgB/s640/IMG_2642.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4FLC5uACdvw/VzynK0qxAWI/AAAAAAAAEg4/GwiGKsB1l00_ItMJbgsaRjrUV3v8KNf4wCKgB/s1600/IMG_2645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4FLC5uACdvw/VzynK0qxAWI/AAAAAAAAEg4/GwiGKsB1l00_ItMJbgsaRjrUV3v8KNf4wCKgB/s640/IMG_2645.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After three days and 1200km of riding I've come to the conclusion that this is the best helmet I've owned yet. It's very comfortable, and light weight. At first the cheek pads were a little tight, but either I'm used to it or they have "broken in". At interstate speeds, 120kph, the helmet is relatively quiet, I have no problem hearing the Sena BT. It cuts through the wind nice with no buffet. There is a slight whistle with the chin vent open.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ujW3bLKVKM/VzynJ1ruKUI/AAAAAAAAEg4/lvXajXkBJQ4wrmBLVw99MA0tNlNExG52QCKgB/s1600/IMG_2644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ujW3bLKVKM/VzynJ1ruKUI/AAAAAAAAEg4/lvXajXkBJQ4wrmBLVw99MA0tNlNExG52QCKgB/s640/IMG_2644.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Vents....yes there are many vents on this helmet, no excuse for being a hot head. The above mentioned chin vent, a forehead vent and two more side vents near the top, plus a rear exhaust vent.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The helmet comes with a breath guard and chin curtain, both which I have installed, and Shoei's pinlock anti fog system which I cannot comment on since I haven't used it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My ride down consisted of rain, fog, sun, and temps between 10C and 27C, and in typical east coast fashion....all in one day. No real issues of fogging except when stopped, and cracking the visor alleviated that problem.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My only gripe, and it is a minor one, is the field of view. I find it to be slightly narrow. Mind you I have been wearing open faced, and dual sport helmets for a long time and that may have skewed my view. No pun intended. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Is it worth the hefty price? I think so, especially if you do a lot of riding and long trips like I do. The weight, comfort and noise levels are worth that alone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q4U_9-KAiWc/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q4U_9-KAiWc?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So what's up next? The Fundy Adventure Rally documentary will need some tweaks in the wake of Rob's death, also the future of the rally itself is in limbo at the moment. A rewrite of the storyline is in order. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tomorrow I head home from Jersey. I had planned to ride home in two days and stick to the backroads and do some more exploring and sightseeing. However since Rob's death all I've wanted to do is go home and see my family. It's been really tough being away from them this time, so I'm basically getting on the Interstate at 5am tomorrow morning and heading home in butt numbing 1000km ride.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Some pics from the ride down</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-laGID3xEL1I/Vz8jrOTM0MI/AAAAAAAAEhM/Tv_cEC5-wt0fnKJZyvSHqnnc_rp1WqsKACLcB/s1600/IMG_0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-laGID3xEL1I/Vz8jrOTM0MI/AAAAAAAAEhM/Tv_cEC5-wt0fnKJZyvSHqnnc_rp1WqsKACLcB/s640/IMG_0099.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Some ADV fun on a gravel road in Maine. Need some scrambler tires once these wear out.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uT1X092B5uo/Vz8jrH1HQEI/AAAAAAAAEhI/XbNdOvm69SQDm1fJTitos5vqBTNhyqUuACLcB/s1600/IMG_0103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uT1X092B5uo/Vz8jrH1HQEI/AAAAAAAAEhI/XbNdOvm69SQDm1fJTitos5vqBTNhyqUuACLcB/s640/IMG_0103.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Mount Washington, NH</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0R9Y_IOfARvc5NCsHbFZl6-Sv6Cnbg-vuMMFKXd6lNssq50SN7jMQOwk_11z6zTxo5N0cZK28eM8CYR4rpz3JNWogcwSZR-8ZYd-qF_5tA3box6d-KfiosRS42Jx7T98v6U7sr51XSq8u/s1600/IMG_0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0R9Y_IOfARvc5NCsHbFZl6-Sv6Cnbg-vuMMFKXd6lNssq50SN7jMQOwk_11z6zTxo5N0cZK28eM8CYR4rpz3JNWogcwSZR-8ZYd-qF_5tA3box6d-KfiosRS42Jx7T98v6U7sr51XSq8u/s640/IMG_0107.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>This was just after I crossed into New York State from Connecticut. What a beautiful road with smooth pavement. The switchbacks on one of the hills was awesome.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqRVXAWkD6Q/Vz8jrSuuGUI/AAAAAAAAEhc/1y-bS5Swogg2bobTOtd4ZRBcemnNatUJwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqRVXAWkD6Q/Vz8jrSuuGUI/AAAAAAAAEhc/1y-bS5Swogg2bobTOtd4ZRBcemnNatUJwCLcB/s640/IMG_0110.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll save the real bike trip for another time. My longtime friend James, or Jimbo as I like to call him just bought a nicely setup BMW F650GS and is eager to go on a road trip. So I'm thinking we need to head off on a long weekend in June or July for some 2 wheeled fun.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Bigland Adventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326272346060243713noreply@blogger.com0