Cross Country 2008
In April 2008 I got a motorcycle license and bought my first bike, a 2007 865cc Triumph Bonneville. I was hooked. I love to ride. The bike only had 6 miles on the odometer when I got it. 4 1/2 months later it reads over 12,000 miles.
The following is the account of my journey across the United States from New York City to the West Coast and back again. This is the blog I kept as I rolled along. It has been placed here in chronological order. The words have been kept as they were (mistakes included). I have added links to many of those words for further inquiry. More photos have been added as well. If you click on any link or photo they will open on a separate page. Hope you enjoy the ride.
Cross Country 2008
Nygumbo presents a one man army across the nation!
It’s time to go. July 7, 2008. Happy Birthday C.C. and Ro!
Let’s hope 7 is my lucky number too!
Time to go!
CHARGE!
The Projected Route West
On My Way in PA!
I left New York City on Monday afternoon. Got a late start. Victor saw me off. Victor is my drunk ex-super who took this picture. You can see his tall boy in the bag behind my bike. He was ripped.
Rain Day 1: I was one of those guys you see sitting under the overpass.
I can’t believe I thought about leaving my full helmet at home. With the half helmet in a heavy rain, it feels as though every kid I taught for the last 15 years was standing on the side of the road pelting me in the face with rocks.
I got to Cherry Springs State Park to camp for the night. A group of people were renovating this old cabin for an Eagle Scout project.
I was only one of two people camping at this site.
Cherry Springs is supposed to be the darkest place on the East Coast. They have these observatories that you can rent out. Unfortunately, it was a cloudy night, so the celestial heavens were closed for the evening.
I had to ride around a little with no helmet. It felt good!
Major Laptop Problems!
I’m OK, but the laptop is messed up! The screen went dark! I can barely make out what’s going on if I look at the screen in bright light. I am just outside Chicago right now. I think I am going to skip it. Screw cities. Already I am bumping into that city attitude. I’ll get enough of that when I get back to NYC. This laptop is difficult to work, but I’ll give it my best. I am at some buffalo wing place in Michigan City, Indiana sitting by a window in order to see the screen just barely. Photos will be even more difficult, but here we go.
Pennsylvania to Indiana
After visiting the darkest overcast place on the east coast I saw this old bus someone coverted into a residence.
I was just about to cross the border into Ohio when I noticed a bunch of bikes and hot rods in the parking lot of a restaurant. The Quaker Steak & Lube. Naturally I checked it out.
While there I got some advice from a giant tatooed biker. He kind of looked like that long haired guy from the Oak Ridge Boys. He told me to watch out for the antelope. An antelope took a friend of his out at Sturgis last year.
I dunked this chick on my second throw.
There’s more, but I’ve got to hit the road.
Later.
South Dakota!
Greetings from South Dakota! I was planning on getting further into the state, but the sun was beaming in my face and I had already rode a few hundred miles. I saw a sign for a Super 8 Motel with internet so I decided to call it a day. I’ll try and get some photos up before nights end. I want to thank those of you who have left comments. It’s nice to hear from everybody.
Back it Up!
OK I’m in South Dakota. But that’s a big jump from Michigan City! So let’s back it up a little.
Now I am at a motel computer and I can see my photos.
So it’s back to the biker gathering in Erie, PA. Remember, you can click a photo to see it larger.
And just before Erie I visited an old sawmill in Galeton, PA.
Enough of PA. I went on to Ohio. I camped out at a site just off the first exit into the state. The next morning I continued west into Cleveland. I stopped for a few photos and moved on.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The Blue Angels were my favorite as a kid. I believe this is the Phantom 2 fighter jet.
Holy Toledo! Toledo Ohio that is, I got lost a bit. I didn’t have a plan for this route. I was riding along the Maumee river then missed a turn. I stopped at a little Ice Cream place and had a chocolate shake. A nice girl that worked there helped me focus back on my path. I crossed the river again and rode along Route 24 to Route 6. This is a place called Roche de Boeuf.
Then it was west into Indiana where I camped at Chain O’Lakes State Park. Nice site. Friendly people. Passed a town called Albion on the way. That’s the name of one of my favorite Babyshambles tracks.
Then it was on to Michigan City. I spoke of that in an earlier Post.
So, Chicago was out of the question. I turned south when I saw this huge storm headed toward me. I stopped to put on my rain gear. As soon as I put the last piece on and place my full face helmet on my head, BOOM! The storm wailed. It was a heavy rain with gale force winds and lightning. I crouched behind a road sign and waited it out. Just before the storm I was taking this picture. I should have taken a photo in the opposite direction as well. The contrast of the storm to this sky was amazing. Like Yin and Yang.
The rain suit is amazing. I wish I had gotten Rain gloves. I’d have been completely dry. Riding in the rain isn’t all that bad with the right equiptment. It’s kind of fun!
I got a little lost again after heading west. Once I found my way I shot across Illinois to another State Park called Johnson Sauk Trail S.P.
That night I did take the time to write a bit.
“Doing well. Not everything has gone as expected, but as I sit here at the campsite in Johnson Sauk State Park Outside of Annawan, Illinois, I am feeling good. I have a fire going compliments of my neighboring campers who gave me some wood. I have Charlie Daniels playing on my iPod and there’s a cool breeze blowing through the pines keeping the fire ablaze. As I sit here I realize my feet are damp. I haven’t had time to notice. A small but hugely powerful storm blew by today. I had just left Michigan City, Indiana after deciding against going to Chicago. I had stopped for gas and just sensed the feel of the city. It was hostile. I was out here to put the the attitude of the city behind me. Everywhere else I had been (betwwen NYC and Michigan city) I had encountered nothing but warm, friendly people. In Michigan City it was back to the fast pace and the sharp tongue. I turned the bike around and headed south. As I write there are 3 June bugs bouncing around me. One is actually resting on my finger as I write. I don’t know if it’s the light or they are trying to tell me they’re upset about their cousin dying as he bounced off my forehead going 80MPH on the way here today.”
The next morning.
Some wild turkeys strolled by.
An old round meeting house in the park.
Now it was across the Mississippi River and into Iowa.
I rode north up the Mississppi to Effigy National Monument.
It’s a grass bear made by indians thousands of years ago.
Views from the cliffs above the Mississppi.
That night I camped at Beaver Creek Valley State Park, Minnesota. The ranger warned me that upon entering the campsite I would have to cross a running stream with lots of slippery algae. He said many a motorcycle has taken a fall there. In fact one went down today. It was almost dark. I had no choice. He said to follow the car tire path where there would be less algae. I did. Just as I had almost traversed the stream I felt the slip but I did’nt go down. While setting up camp I met the man that did go down. Rick and his daughter Renee (correct me if I’m wrong) stopped by to say hi. Very nice people. They invited me for S’mores. Mmmmmmmmmmmm. But I had to set up camp and eat first. I walked down to their site, but I was too late for s’mores. They had gone to bed.
Much to my surprise, when I woke up the next morning, a ziplock bag was on the seat of my bike with graham crackers, marshmellows, and Hershey’s. Thanks again for that! I saw them again before heading out today. Rick recommended some good routes and sites in South Dakota and Montana. He is a Lewis and Clarke head too. He told me where I could see a place where Meriwether Lewis carved his name. It’s just northeast of Yellowstone.
Headed west on Route 16 I saw this. It’s the old version of that machine I saw before the big storm. Pretty cool, huh?
Then I drove like a madman to South Dakota. I was doing between 75 and 90 all the way to Sioux Falls. When I was approaching I noticed a hotel sign which said High Speed Internet. I decided it was time to get back to the blog and sleep in a bed. It’s nearly 2:30am now, so I’m glad I’ll have a bed to sleep in. I was going to get to blogging right when I arrived, but I figured I’d take all the bags off my bike and ride into town and get a bite to eat. Most everything is closed on Sunday. I found some Chinese food and then stumbled upon Falls Park. What do you know? Sioux Falls is named after Sioux Falls. It’s really a nice site.
At night they had a lazer show with a history of the Dakotas and Sioux Falls so I stuck around. I didn’t get back to the motel until almost 11:00.
Tomorrow it’s off to the Badlands!
Ohio to South Dakota (video)
Videos
So I am still having problems with video and photos. But here is a quick update. I spent the night in the Badlands. It’s beautiful. At night I went to a bar on an indian reservation. Had a blast. I met some guys from Oregon at the campsite and they drove to the bar. Good thing because we befriended the bartender and were out until sunrise. There is no way I could have ridden the bike. I may have deleted the photos from that night by mistake. Sorry Ely and Reid. No puking parking lot shot for you guys. Now I am staying a couple night in Keystone. It’s a small town just under Mt. Rushmore. I checked into a hotel to rest a bit. Pool, Hot tub, and a bed! Very nice. Very necessary. You can see Mt. Rushmore from the hotel. So today I will just ride around the Black Mountain hills of Dakota and enjoy the day. Hopefully I’ll have some photos for you later tonight.
Seem to be having problems with the videos. I’ll keep trying.
See ya soon!
Actually, Let’s try this.
Black Hills
First of all, can anyone see the videos? I can’t anywhere I’ve stopped.
Still no pics for now. I’ll try to stop at a library or something and upload along the way. Yesterday was fantastic. I went to Mt. Rushmore, The Crazy Horse monument, and Custer State Park. Only saw one buffalo though. Today I head west again. I’ll be going to Devil’s Tower and the site of the Battle of Little Big Horn. I am also going to see a tree that Meriwether Lewis carved his name in. Yellowstone is far. Don’t know if I’ll make it there before dark. I don’t want to push it anymore. As my friend Thierry reminded me: It is vacation! I can’t wait to share videos and photos. Later y’all!
Oh! Kep, there is a BMW meet in Gillete, Wyoming this weekend. BMW’s all over these lands. That, and Harleys. I still have not seen a Triumph since I left NYC. I don’t know if I’ll get to Gilette. If I do I’ll be sure to rub it in. Sorry bro. I really wish you could be here with me.
And lastly, happy anniversary dad. Big 25!
I found an Internet Cafe!
Hello Nygumbo fans. I’m back! I am going to post a bunch of pictures then add text if there is time. Here we go!
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
The falls that the town was named after.
It said 104 when I hit the button. It dropped to 102 before the shutter clicked.
The Corn Palace, Mitchell, SD
Then it was off to the Badlands!
I found a bar on the indian reservation. The woman to the right is from the Sioux Nation. She told me she could tell I had a good spirit from the moment I walked in the door. The Sioux are so perceptive.
This is the bartender who was feeding us drinks until sunrise!
This is the result of that experience. Say hello to Reid from Oregon.
OK, back to the badlands!
A Badland Goat.
Takin’ Care of Business in a Flash!
A last shot with the Badlands.
I flew across South Dakota and shacked up at a motel in Keystone for the next two nights. I needed rest and relaxation.
Here is an old train from the 1800’s
Chillin’ in Keystone at the Ruby House.
I checked out this guy sculpting with a chainsaw. I gotta try that.
Keystone is the town just below Mount Rushmore.
Today is Jimmy’s Birthday. Happy Birthday Jimmy!
Nearby is the Crazy Horse Monument. It is being worked on by one family and is far from finished. The project is being worked on by the children and grandchildren of the man who began the project.
I went to Custer State Park and only saw one buffalo.
I went back to Mount Rushmore at night. I figured out how to park for free. Otherwise it’s 10 bucks.
Profile
I was so disappointed at having only seen one buffalo. So I went back to Custer State Park. The tatanka did not let me down!
People thought I was nuts walking amongst the buffalo, but I couldn’t help myself!
I stopped by Deadwood on the way to Devil’s Tower. I met Wild Bill.
I stayed at the campsite under Devil’s Tower. A storm blew in. I hung out with a guy named Tim from upstate NY. We drank beer and watched the lightning.
The next day I was inspired to ride like the devil all the way to Yellowstone. The winds were incredible. I had to ride at a 20 degree angle just to keep from blowing into oncoming traffic. In the Rockies I played in the snow. I have a video of my sliding down this snowbank but can’t upload it right now.
Beyond the train yard you can see the dust blowing. It was brutal.
I finally made it to Yellowstone! Old Faithful.
Yellowstone is beautiful.
A mule deer.
And more buffalo!
A bald eagle
An Eagles Nest
Cooking steak on the campfire!
Well folks, that does it for now. There is so much more to say. I just don’t have the time. It gets really cold here at night and I am at least an hour from the campsite. The sun will be setting soon and I gotta get back and start a fire.
Thanks to all of you who have left comments! It’s nice to hear from you.
Yellowstone National Park
Hey There! I am in a library here in Butte, Montana. Didn’t expect to be here but a storm blew out the electricity at the gas station I intended on fueling up at. In Montana gas can be far and few between. So I ended up in Butte after going 163 miles on a tank of gas. I had to kick in to reserve at 140 miles. Thats a record for me!
Let me go back to Yellowstone before I move on.
I hit the 5000 mile mark!
This is called the Dragon’s Breath Spring. It sounds like it’s breathing.
There are lots of fly fishermen throughout the park.
OK Brancusi. Here is a bird in flight!
Smimming to Mama!
That night I stayed up and sat around the fire with a fun family from the “rural Suburbs” of Chicago. The next morning another family pulled up with an owl stuck in their grill.
Let me add that the internet cafe I found was in West Yellowstone. Cammy who runs a travel business out of the same location was real kind and gave me a great deal on the internet time. Cammy, I can’t find your business card. So leave a comment and I can add the # of your business. Thanks again. After Yellowstone I crossed the Continental Divide and went south to The Grand Tetons.
The Tetons.
After leaving the Tetons I continued into Jackson Hole. There waqs a storm ahead so I stopped to gear up. While along side the road I heard “Hey look!” It was an older gentleman pointing out my bike to his friend. His friend told me he useed to hold the speed record in a 1954 Triumph Tiger. I said “That’s what Brando rode in The Wild One. He said yes. He used to love beating the pants off the Harleys. Then I rode into the mountains of Idaho. The rains were coming down heavy when a big mama moose and her baby jumped out in front of me. Unfortunately I couldn’t get my camera out. It was packed up because of the rain.
I headed North from there and caught this shot. Kind of erie. A big cross shape behind my shadow and a rainbow ahead.
I stayed the night at a motel in a town called Lima. Had a nice talk about the area with the hotel hostess. And more good conversation with Dorinda and the people at a cafe. They told me I can find crystals in the mountains. That’s where I am headed today.
Lima.
Then it was off to Bannack. A Ghost Town in Montana!
An old stage coach shed.
More Bannack!
I had to take shelter as a couple storms passed through.
An Old Masonic Lodge
There’s an hour time limit here at the library. I better go dig for crystals.
Later!
Gotta Love the Local Libraries
Hello! Libraries have computers with online access! I am in Polson, Montana on my way to Glacier National Park. I just posted yesterday but had to run out without checking things. I will try to post a video as well. They will be unedited, but fun none the less. I will tell you about the crystal digging in my next post.
Here is a Scary Moment
Once he passes you can move on. I have no editing software to crop.
I was really afraid this sucker was going to knock me over.
They are huge!!!
Found a Computer at a Cafe Outside Glacier. Yahoo!
So I traded the Triumph in for this classic!
Here I am digging for crystals! I found a bunch. It reminded me of digging in Dirk’s sandbox as a kid. Unfortunately I keep forgetting to photograph my booty! I am sure you would all like to see my booty.
Having been conceived across the street from a Budweiser brewery I have a special place in my heart for these guys.
The Budweiser Clydesdales. Fantastic animals.
Having fun in front of the campfire.
Glacier National Park
This is underneath one of the snow drifts carved out by the melting waters beneath.
Some Bighorn Sheep. WOW!
A tunnel under the road.
It’s just awesome riding on these roads with 3000 foot drops beside you. Glacier is beautiful.
Here’s a mountain goat.
And a little baby.
It was tough to say goodbye to Glacier. But I gotta move West. I should be in Washington tonight.
Last night I went to a local joint called Packer’s Roost. I drank the local beer called Moose Drool and ordered the Packer’s burger. Big Nick’s can’t compare! There was a great band playing. Good mountain music. Banjo, Mandolin, Guitar, and drums. Serious jamming!
Packer’s Roost. While there I was talking to Rex. He used to ride bulls, now he chops wood to make ends meet. He told me after fuel and beer money he makes about $3 an hour. I said that’s hard work for $3 an hour. He said “You gotta do what it takes.” How true. I told Rex about the Moose in the road. He grinned with his toothless smile and declared, ” You don’t have to stop for moose, they’re so big you just ride under ‘em!”
OK Nygumbo Fans. Time to travel. Next time I’ll try to post some of the videos riding the twisty roads in the Glaciers. It’s nuts! See ya!
Riding in Glacier (video)
I Made it to Washington
As I’ve said, I can hardly see these vids, but I think this gives a good idea of the experience.
But first…..My Booty!
It’s hard to believe that you can just dig these suckers up, but it’s true. Then you want more. I felt like Bogart in the ‘Treasure of the Sierra Madre.’ I think I would kill for gold!
Also, I want to thank the kind folks at The Commissary at Gresko’s. That is where I used the computer yesterday. When I was done they gave me a big Toll House Cookie. It was good! People have been very kind to me on this trip. Lagniappes everywhere I go!
It took a lot longer to get through the rest of Montana and Idaho than expected, but I was determined to get to Washington. When I turned on to Route 20 it became desolate and mountainous. The sun was dropping quickly as was the temperature. I decided not to camp. I figured I could shack up at the nearest town, Ione. It turned out to be a bust. I had to go another 37 miles. I thought it was beginning to rain but it was the bugs plastering my face shield with guts. I had to stop a few times to wipe them off just so I could see all the deer that continuously jumped in the road. OK, only 4 jumped in the road, but I saw plenty more on the sides. Then there were these signs.
Needless to say it was not the most pleasurable ride. But I made it to Colville, WA and found a motel. Then I went to a bar and had a burger and a couple of beers. I was talking to some of the locals about their nightmare border crossing stories. I think i may scrap Vancouver. My bag is packed tight. I don’t need those border assholes tearing everything up. I’ve experienced it before. It’s not pleasant. I’m thinking of doing a Canada trip next year and up into Alaska. We’ll see.
I’m Back Online
OK. Let’s bring everybody up to date. I had made it to the state of Washington when we last met. After that grueling ride I stayed in a motel. When I woke up the next morning this little guy was hanging out just above my door.
Then it was across Route 2 and through the Northern Cascades. I was high in the clouds.
It was cold and rainy for much of the ride at almost 8000 feet high. A strange and wicked environment.
An old farm
I came across a herd of elk.
I rode until dark again and stayed at the last town before having to catch a ferry to cross to Washington’s Northern peninsula.
The next day I crossed on the ferry.
I completed the last of my western travel as the Route 101 turned south without seeing the ocean yet. I rode into Olympic National Park to the Hoh Rain Forest where I saw Bambi.
Then I entered the forest and found a new home.
There were 26 miles of paths through this amazing lush forest.
And finally just before dark I saw it. The Pacific Ocean with giant trees all along the beach which drifted and bleached in the sun.
I pitched my tent at a campsite between the rain forest and the ocean. Then I was introduced to the reason they call it the rain forest. It rained all night. Then all the next day. I decided to pack it up and head south. It was ugly. I rode all day in the cold rain. Then I came upon the Columbia River which was the end of the line for Lewis & Clark before turning back east. The rain was horizontal and I had to cross a 4 1/2 mile bridge to get to Oregon on the other side. With the gusts of wind, rain, and fog it was the most frightening part of my journey to date.
Oregon
What can I say about Oregon. Nothing good. It is my least favorite place I’ve encountered on this journey. I really thought I was going to be impressed. NOT! There was some nice scenery but pretty lame other than that. As I was at the northern tip I asked a guy if there was anything cool I should check out on my way south. He said there is a cheese factory in Tilamook and a Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum in Newport. Thanks Huckleberry, not what I had in mind. Also the roads in Oregon were awful. An erratic textured patchwork of bumps and grooves. Two people nearly drove into me and there were loads of crappy beach towns with neo-conformist former hippies. But as I said I did find some nice scenery.
Later to you Oregon.
Then….
California
California has everything Oregon had on it’s coast and more. Then there is the redwoods. .magnificent and huge.
And I got to ride through one of those badboys!
After that I rode well into the night to see my cousin in Berkeley where I am now.
After Berkeley It’s Time to Move East
Hello everybody. After leaving Berkeley I headed toward Yosemite.
I was still pretty upset about my cousin asking me to stay at a hotel in Berkeley when I visited. Yes, the same cousin who my family gave a home to for years. But a good dip in a waterfall cooled me off.
The bike is filthy but it’s been running like a dream.
After Yosemite the terrain became hot and dry. Apparently it hasn’t rained in these parts for quite some time. I stopped at this old foundation of a home.
I went south to Sequoia National Park. Man these trees are awesome!
Campfires were necessary for warmth earlier in the trip. Now I make ‘em just because fire is cool!
A little morning desert meditation.
If you look at the center of the photo you will see a jet that used me for target practice as I was going down the road. I mentioned this to a park ranger in Death Valley and he said, “Yeah, they do that.”
Death Valley. That’s 117 degrees in the shade!!!
Death Valley is an interesting place, but there is a reason I was the only bike there. The heat was brutal.
An old steam engine.
An old wagon train used for hauling Borax.
As the sun set I headed toward Vegas.
Then I checked into a cheap motel where I stayed when Linda and I crossed the country 5 years ago. Can’t beat 38 bucks a night.
That’s it for now. Again time is up at the library.
Greetings From Bluff, Utah
I camped out last night in Bluff City. It’s a small town founded by Mormons in 1880.
But let’s get back to Vegas first.
I had a great meal and a couple mojitos next to a canal in Venice.
The ceilings are painted like the sky. It feels as though the clouds are moving.
I went to downtown Vegas and saw that crazy light show. I’ll post video of it when I get home. So stay tuned nygumbo fans. But they also display a lot of the old Vegas neon signs.
I must admit, being in Vegas made me a little home sick. It was time to get back to nature where I could be one with mother earth! As I stood along side Route 66 I looked at a hell of a storm ahead in the direction of the Grand Canyon. I actually thought of skipping the canyon to avoid the storm. What a mistake that would have been. Though I have been there before, the Grand Canyon is always breathtaking.
I was afraid I wouldn’t get a campsite. When I tried to make a reservation I was told they were booked. But, because of the rain many people canceled. Lucky me. Not only that, but the rain stopped and I woke up to a sunny sky. Reason to jump for joy!
Here is an interesting road crossing sign.
What a place.
I knew I wanted to head toward Mesa Verde. I was side tracked when I saw nature’s skyscrapers. Huge rock formations were to my left so I changed direction. I then had an Easy Rider moment. Fortunately it wasn’t rednecks with shotguns, but Navajo indians in a pick up truck pelting rocks is no picnic. I was tagged in the shoulder with a boulder! Today I am forming a posse to hunt them down. Even if we don’t get them…you can never have too much posse.
The locals told me about some small roads to take on the way to Mesa Verde. After that I am back tracking to Monument Valley to see more of this awesome beauty.
The place I had entered was Monument Vally. I wish sunset could last forever. The colors are fantastic. This is a rock formation called Mexican Hat.
I’ll be back with more monuments and who knows what else. See ya soon!
Heading East
I am finally on an eastern route. Although I have been making my way in an easternly direction it has been anything but direct.
Remember I mentioned the Mormon’s who founded Bluff City. This is the only existing cabin left from a large group.
As I was riding along a reccommended road I saw a sign which said Canyons of the Ancients. It didn’t look like much but I decided to explore a bit. I just started hiking. And look what I found!
Apparently there are ruins and petroglyphs throughout these canyons. But I forgot to carry water when I excitedly started wandering into this vast canyon. If you don’t have water bad things can happen.
The following evening I had a special beer in the horses’ honor.
I have always wanted to see Mesa Verde. It’s an entire city of ancient cliff dwellings.
It’s fascinating to see these ruins. I met a guy Dan while taking this photo. He told me of an old man in Utah who sold his property to the Department of the Interior 4 years ago that contains untouched ruins larger than Mesa Verde. If you hear of it opening to the public, let me know!
There are so many unusual and colorful rock formations out here.
I’ve got it made in the shade.
This was my view.
This is the southern part of Canyonland. It has many windy roads weaving between these amazing sites.
That night I camped right along side the Colorado River just outside Moab.
Here’s how it looked in the morning.
Then I went to explore the northern part of Canyonland. My lens needs cleaning. There is dirt behind the outside lens. Life on the road is tough and dirty.
No, it’s not the Grand Canyon. It’s Canyonland.
I then took a road Dan had suggested. It’s the same road where I found the campground I stayed at the night before. The road runs along the Colorado and along the way is Castle Valley.
And then another milestone. 10,000 miles.
10,000 miles without a scratch. Then at 10,015 miles I pulled over to take the following picture and hit some loose gravel. The bike went down.
Fortunately I was able to pull my leg out. The damage was minimal. I just bent my clutch handle and scratched the mirror. But damn that bike is heavy. Of course my bags didn’t help. I couldn’t lift the bike. A guy passed by on a Harley and stopped. He was returning from Sturgis. With his help I got the bike back up. I had flooded the carbs, but after letting the bike sit for a while it started up and I was on my way.
Now I am headed East!
You know I love reflections. Especially when they are of me!
Who Said There’s Nothing To Do In Kansas?
Though I am guilty of having said it myself, I have to disagree with that statement now. In the footsteps of the great Clark Griswald, I tied a dog to the bike, spray painted ‘Honkey Lips’ on the gas tank, and visited The Worlds Largest Ball of Twine in Cawker City, Kansas!
Also in Cawker City there is a guy who collects all kinds of junk and old cars. While I was taking some pictures he pulled up on a bulldozer and asked if I was interested in buying. I was taking a picture of this old Dodge pick up at the time.
Have a look at the emblem on the grill. Dodge was ‘Dodge Brothers‘ and they used a star of David on a globe as their symbol.
Here in Hollenberg Kansas, you can find one of the original stops for the Pony Express. Between 1860 and 1861, Pony Expess riders would stop at such places to change horses. Then every three stops they would change riders. The telegraph came around in 1862 putting the Pony Express out of business.
As if that wasn’t enough, I found the geographic center of the United States in Lebenon, Kansas.
At 2am I was awakened by the sound of thunder. I got up to take a picture.
Ain’t it funny how the night moves.
Well Folks! The cross country adventure has come to an end. It hurts to write that. From Kansas I flew across Missouri. I stopped briefly to check out a few sights.
I stopped at the Locust Creek Covered Bridge. I wasn’t expecting a 2 1/2 mile gravel road to get there, but I had to ‘get back on the horse’ after that drop in Utah.
Coast to Coast – Mission Accomplished!
As I rode across Route 36 about to pass into Illinois I had to make another stop. My friend Marc and I passed through here 9 years ago on mad cross country trip. At that time we went out of our way to see it. Hannibal, Missouri. Boyhood home of Mark Twain.
I flew across Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and West Virginia. I was ready for some rest and the company of friends.
I stopped by my Dad’s place in Maryland.
Stopped by my friend Brian’s place. His was the first street bike I ever rode. Sorry Dobro, I had to move north. Ran out of time.
Then I headed North to New Jersey. Worst ride of the trip. And the worst part of New Jersey was Delaware. It took over 2 hours to get through Delaware. I wanted to stop in Margate to see my friend Bob, but traffic held me up and I went straight to the friendly faces of Belmar.
That night we went to an awsome show at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park! It was Todd Rundgren and friends doing Sgt.Pepper. Great Show!
Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band. The Album cover had many people on it. Do you know who they are? Click Here.
Jersey had it’s share of wildlife.
Then it was back to New York City!
Over 10,000 miles of fun and adventure had come to an end.
I hope you have enjoyed the show!
It’s time for new adventures.
Coast to Coast
Mission Accomplished.
MAPS
Day 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,
Day 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28,
Day 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42,
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Touring Sites
http://www.worldweb.com/ Tremendous Travel Site
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http://freepages.history.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~gtusa/usa.htm
http://www.legendsofamerica.com
http://gorp.away.com/gorp/activity/byway/topten.htm
http://ghosttownsandminesofnevada.com/
http://www.lostamerica.com/ghost.html
http://www.ghosttowngallery.com/
http://www.legendsofamerica.com
http://www.yellowstoneparknet.com
http://www.byways.org/explore/
http://www.roadsideamerica.com
http://www.motorcyclemaniac.net/WebPages/FavoriteRides.html
http://www.touringdepot.com/home.html
http://www.motorcycleroads.us/index.html
http://www.motorcycleroads.com/
http://www.ridetellico.com/Home_Page.html
http://www.openroadjourney.com/
http://www.sportbikeroads.com/st_list.htm
http://www.sportbikeroads.com/
http://www.pashnit.com/motoroads.ht
Camping Links
http://www.hikercentral.com/campgrounds.html
http://www.usa.worldweb.com/WheretoStay/Campgrounds/
http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/moab.html
http://www.freecampgrounds.com
http://www.gocampingamerica.com/
Events Links
http://www.motorcycleevents.com/calendar.php
http://www.woodennickelbuffalo.com/directions.html
State Links
http://www.huntleigh.com/~artpike/Welcome.html
http://wyoparks.state.wy.us/Sites/
http://fwp.mt.gov/lands/site_281892.aspx
WIFI LINKS
http://www.jiwire.com/browse-hotspot-free-united-states-us.htm
http://www.wi-fihotspotlist.com/
The following is a list of park units that offer AT&T Wi-Fi Service:
CALIFORNIA
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve
Auburn State Recreation Area
Brannan Island State Recreation Area
Bolsa Chica State Beach
Clear Lake State Park
Columbia State Historic Park
Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area
Crystal Cove State Park
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Doheny State Beach
Ed Z’berg – Sugar Pine Point State Park
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
Half Moon Bay State Beach
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Huntington State Beach
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
Lake Perris State Recreation Area
Leo Carrillo State Park
MacKerricher State Park
Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Monterey State Historic Park
Morro Bay State Park
Mount San Jacinto State Park
Mount Tamalpais State Park
Natural Bridges State Beach
Old Sacramento State Historic Park
Old Town San Diego SHP
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Pismo State Beach
Point Mugu State Park
Richardson Grove State Park
Salton Sea State Recreation Area
Samuel P. Taylor State Park
San Buenaventura State Beach
San Clemente State Beach
San Elijo State Beach
San Juan Bautista State Historic Park
Silver Strand State Beach
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
Sonoma State Historic Park
South Carlsbad State Beach
Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park
Torrey Pines State Beach
Van Damme State Park
Will Rogers State Historic Park
William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park
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Drake Well Museum
202 Museum Lane
Titusville, PA
4411 W 12th St, Erie, PA
Where the Ducks Walk on the Fish
Linesville-Hartstown Rd., Linesville, PA
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July 17, 18, 19, 20, 2008
Scenic Bike Routes – Roar on the Shore™ 2008
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The Vintage Triumph Roadshow
July 25 and 26, 2008
“The Vintage Triumph Roadshow” rolls into AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days
The Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum has announced it will host “The Vintage Triumph Roadshow” during 2008 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days and invites the participation of all Triumph owners in this noteworthy event.
“The Vintage Triumph Roadshow” will be held at the Motorhead Café on July 25 and 26, 2008. It will honor the VMD Marque of the Year, Triumph. Inspired by “Antiques Roadshow®,” the hit PBS program, “The Vintage Triumph Roadshow” will feature Triumph expert and Baxter Cycle owner, Randy Baxter, appraising classic Triumphs and Triumph memorabilia.
Baxter will be appraising both correctly restored and original unrestored Triumphs, but he will do more than simply assign a dollar value to the motorcycles. Baxter will also share restoration trends and tips with the audience.
If you own a correctly restored Triumph and have ever wondered if your paint color and pin striping would pass concours judging or if your decals are authentically placed, this is the event for you. Additionally, if you own an original unrestored machine, Baxter and the Museum invite you to participate in “The Vintage Triumph Roadshow” and allow fellow enthusiasts to appreciate and learn from your classic bike.
Triumph owners who would like to participate in “The Vintage Triumph Roadshow” are invited to contact Mark Mederski, Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum executive director, at (614) 856-2222 or mmederski@motorcyclemuseum.org, or submit a completed application form (PDF). Owners must register in advance to have machines and memorabilia appraised by Baxter during “The Vintage Triumph Roadshow.”
Enthusiasts who plan to attend “The Vintage Triumph Roadshow” as spectators do not need to pre-register.
http://www.motorcyclemuseum.org/news/2008/roadshow.asp
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AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days
July 25-27, 2008
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Lexington, Ohio
It’s the biggest celebration of vintage motorcycles on the continent. And old bikes are just the beginning. From North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet, to vintage racing, to new-bike demo rides, to auctions and bike shows, there’s something at VMD for anyone who loves motorcycles. Just ask any of the tens of thousands of people who make VMD a part of their summer every year.
The 2008 version of VMD takes place July 25-27 on the park-like grounds of the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. This year, VMD honors one of the most popular and enduring brands in motorcycling by naming Triumph as Marque of the Year. There will be special displays of the British bikes and other activities.
Plus, all the traditional elements of VMD will be back as the event grows bigger every year. Expect three bike shows, the annual Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum Auction, North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet, demo rides of new bikes, stunt shows, and a full slate of American Historic Motorcycle Racing Association action, including road racing, motocross, flat-track and trials.
New this year is “The Vintage Triumph Roadshow.” Hosted by the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the show offers owners of vintage and antique Triumph motorcycles a chance to get their bikes critiqued and appraised by Randy Baxter of Baxter Cycles.
Also new this year will be a special display of pre-1980 cafe racers of any marque. And, in honor of Triumph, the Featured Marque for 2008 VMD, modern Bonnevilles and Thruxtons that have been customized in the cafe racer style are also welcome. If you would like to show off your cafe racer at VMD, send an e-mail to Will Stoner at the AMA or call (614) 856-1900, ext. 1415
http://www.amadirectlink.com/vmd/2008/
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AMA
http://www.amadirectlink.com/roadride/riderresc/trip_planner.asp
33 Secrets for Smart Touring
1) Eat at weird times. Everyone and their dog eats around 8 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. To get in and out of restaurants in a hurry, don’t be hungry then.
2) A short metal cable with loops on both ends (like those made to keep people from stealing bicycle seats) is perfect for securing a jacket and helmet to your bike’s helmet lock.
3) Carry a spare key. Zip-tie or duct tape it somewhere hidden on your bike, or better yet, give it to a traveling companion.
4) Portable weather radios are now in the $20 range, and the first time one saves you from running right into a massive storm, you’ll wonder why you ever traveled without one. Check accessory companies like Aerostich, or Radio Shack.
5) On high-mileage days, you’ll feel a lot better if you carry eyedrops and use them every time you stop for gas.
6) If you’re nearing the end of your riding day, and want to set yourself up for a quick getaway in the morning, consider riding to the far side of the next city you reach before you stop for the night, eliminating urban traffic the next day.
7) Take a tip from off-road riders and carry a backpack hydration system so you can drink while you ride. A must for arid weather.
Going on a long, complex trip? Keep yourself organized with the envelope system. Before you leave, prepare one envelope for each day on the road. Mark the dates and locations on the outside, then stuff things like hotel reservation info and lists of things to see inside. Instead of juggling your entire stack of literature to find the piece you need, you can just open up that day’s envelope.
9) A simple map case attached to your bike’s tank (we’ve used a Rev-Pak version that has been available through www.whitehorsepress.com for years) can keep you on course without the bulk of a tankbag.
10) Keep your stuff dry in saddlebags by using trash compactor bags as waterproof barriers. They’re thicker and more durable than standard garbage bags.
11) Use earplugs to help reduce wind noise. You can get them from most mail-order shops or dealers, or in bulk from safety-equipment supply houses.
12) Don’t forget that pack-and-ship places are just about everywhere these days. They’re perfect when you spot that antique umbrella stand you’re dying to buy hundreds of miles from home.
13) Don’t forget a small towel or rag for wiping dew off seats, windshields and mirrors, and even for doing a quick whole-bike cleanup. Those synthetic chamois cloths work particularly well.
14) Pack extra bungees and zip-ties. ’Nuff said.
15) Go ahead, buy that GPS you’ve always wanted. They’re perfect not only for finding yourself, but also for allowing you the freedom to get lost in the first place.
16) You’ve heard it a million times, but we’ll say it again: look over your bike carefully every morning on the road. Checking the simple stuff—air pressure, oil level, loose or missing fasteners—can save you from big trouble.
17) Sign up for AMA MoTow. For $25 a year, you get peace of mind, knowing that if you do break down, a motorcycle-savvy towing crew is only a phone call away. To sign up, call the AMA at: (614) 856-1900.
18) Stash a little cash somewhere hidden on the bike or on you, so you can make something happen when all else fails.
19) Before you take off from the hotel or campground in the morning, double check every strap on tankbags or soft saddlebags, and every latch on hard luggage.
20) Especially if you’re riding alone, wear a dog-tag with your name and contact info. You can get them lots of places, including your local army surplus store.
21) Take a look back at where you were parked every time you leave someplace. You’d be amazed at what you find.
22) A cellphone can be a lifesaver in an emergency. You can dial 911 for help anywhere you find cell service, but you’ll need to tell a dispatcher where you are. Keep track of route numbers, interstate exits, towns you’ve passed, mileposts—anything that can save emergency officials time in getting to you.
23) Good motorcycle gear really is worth it. Waterproof, breathable linings in boots and jackets will transform the way you think about bad weather. A number of companies offer materials that work well, but always test your gear on a rainy day at home before facing a storm on the road.
24) Do routine maintenance at home with your bike’s toolkit, so you’re sure you have what you need along the side of the road.
25) On a long tour, plan for at least one day every week of doing nothing. Time is the ultimate luxury, and can mean the difference between a vacation and an endurance run.
26) Be realistic with your daily mileage. In really scenic areas, 150 miles may make a very full day. Don’t assume you can achieve freeway mileage on good back roads.
27) Guidebooks can be invaluable, but these days, a search of the Internet can add spice to your trip by revealing special-interest locations most books fail to include. One of the sites we’ve used is www.roadsideamerica.com. World’s largest concrete bison, anyone?
28) It is possible to use a kit to make emergency repairs on tubeless or tube-type tires alongside the road. But before you count on this as your safety net, practice using the kit on an old tire in your garage.
29) A packable motorcycle cover not only keeps your bike clean and dry overnight, it also discourages thieves. And don’t forget a stout lock of some kind for the bike itself.
30) If you can afford it and are short of time, you could always ship your bike somewhere cool and ride it back. Call the Federal Companies at (800) 747-4100, ext. 217 or 218, for details.
31) If you call a hotel—even if you’re two blocks away—you can often get a better rate than if you just walk in. And if you have access to a computer, there are some spectacular Internet-only deals available these days. Either way, do yourself a favor and have a reservation by 4 p.m. You never know when a convention will take over your destination city. Remember that AMA members get a discount at Red Roof Inns (call (800) RED-ROOF and use AMA code CP503343).
32) A nap can do wonders on a long day.
33) If you’re traveling east or west, schedule your breakfast or dinner times near sunrise or sunset so you don’t have to stare into the sun when it’s low on the horizon.
Touring Essentials: Don’t leave home without ‘em
Your bike, your gear, your comfort.
Your bike
Motorcycles are more reliable than ever, and a cell phone and MOTOW roadside assistance can get you out of a lot of troubles without getting your hands dirty.
But it still makes sense to carry some basic tools and repair items with you.
Probably the thing most likely to immobilize your bike is a flat tire. You can usually get to someplace that can do a permanent repair or replace the tire just by carrying and using a simple plug kit and a means for inflating your tire, such CO2 cartridges or a small pump, either powered by your bike or by hand.
No tools are useful if you don’t know how to use them. Practice your repair techniques on an old tire at home, before you have to learn the hard way by botching your last plug alongside the road.
To help avoid tire problems in the first place, an air pressure gauge should be an ever-present part of your travel gear, and should be used frequently.
Like a tire repair kit, a flashlight and a spare fuse at night could mean the difference between being blind and stranded on a dark road (and maybe in danger of being hit by other traffic) or being back on your way quickly.
Know your bike and know what special tools it requires. Within reason, carry along anything that a repair shop might not have.
Is there a weak spot on your machine? Carrying a spare electrical relay, headlight bulb, fuel filter or whatever else is known to fail, due to vibration, wear, or quirks of your particular machine, can save you a lot of wasted time seeking spare parts on tour.
It really all comes down to knowing your machine and intelligently assessing what you’re most likely to need on tour to keep it happy, healthy, and humming down the highway
Your gear
The first goal of your gear is to keep you safe. But you’ll also be safer if you’re dry and warm and focused on your riding, instead of wet and shivering and searching for a rest area with a hot-air hand dryer to thaw your frozen digits.
The farther you travel, the wider the range of weather conditions you may encounter. But even a short ride can put you through a swing of 40 degrees. Just ask anyone who’s ridden to the peak of Mount Evans in Colorado or Mount Washington in New Hampshire.
You need to be prepared for 45 degrees in the morning, 85 degrees in the late afternoon, and the rain that will hit somewhere along the tour—all without having a chase truck along to carry extra gear.
Instead of carrying different gear for every situation, consider versatile pieces that work together. A jacket with adjustable vents and a removable lining can cover a wide range of temperatures. In warm seasons, a mesh jacket and a rain suit to wear over it (and shut off the ventilation) covers a wide range with little bulk.
An extra pair or two of gloves takes up little space. But having dry gloves to put on if the weather turns cold and wet is worth a lot.
Adding electrically heated gear greatly extends the riding temperatures in cold weather, while taking up little packing space.
Your comfort
Anything that’s even the most minor annoyance on a short ride will really, really get on your nerves on a long tour.
Are your levers adjusted properly? When you rest your fingers on the levers, the back of your hand should be in a straight line with your arm, so your wrists aren’t bent and putting pressure on your nerves.
If you’re traveling a lot, is it time to spring for an aftermarket seat? Several manufacturers will make one suited to your kind of riding. For other riders, greater comfort is as simple as adding a sheepskin cover or a pad to the existing seat.
If wind buffeting is bothering you, consider a different-size windshield. There are also add-on lips you can get to extend your existing shield. Remember that a little buffeting that is barely annoying on your 20-mile commute will have you ready to rip off your windshield and chew it up in anger after four 500-mile days on the road.
Don’t forget things like a tinted faceshield for your helmet or sunglasses, earplugs, a bottle of water, aspirin, sunblock, etc. These things can greatly improve your comfort when you need them.
Make your own list
Armed with these guidelines, make a list of the things you think you’ll need on your tour. Then, revise it after each trip. Cross off things you didn’t need and add things you needed but didn’t have with you.
To get started, use our list, which is based on input from some experienced road riders.
Then get out there and enjoy the ride.
A quick check list of stuff to take on tour
Here are a few items you might want to consider including in your own personal moto-touring packing list:
Clear Contact paper or low-tack tape (great for protecting motorcycle bodywork from luggage straps and bungee cords)
Soft-hook tie-downs (great for creating bungee cord hooks)
Bungee cords
Siphon hose
Ziplock bags (thousands of uses—you can even drain gas into a bag from one bike’s petcock, then pour it into another bike)
Zip-ties
Duct tape and electrical tape (wrap a small amount around each leg of the pliers in your bike’s tool kit to save space)
Flat repair kit (tube or tubeless, depending on your machine)
CO2 cartridge tire inflators, or another type of inflation device
Chain master link
Handi-wipes
Cellphone
Bike cover
Flashlight
Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife
Tire pressure gauge
Shop rags
Extra fuses
Extra ignition key
Towel
Aspirin
Earplugs
Sunblock
Chapstick
$20 bill hidden on bike
Up-to-date license and registration
Spare glasses
Spare dark or light faceshield
Bandana (protect your neck from cold or your mouth from dust; or, in hot weather, soak it in water and tie it around your neck)
Laundry detergent (powder)/clothespins (for washing out a shirt in your room)
Space blanket
Lighter
Rain-X (check your windshield manufacturer for use)
Faceshield cleaner
Water (one of those backpack hydration systems can be a lifesaver in hot weather)
U-lock/disc lock
Raingear (with glove and boot covers)
Walking shoes
Weather radio
Spare helmet hardware (plastic screws)
Garbage bags (for rainproofing your luggage or even as an extra windproof layer on you in extreme cold)
Telephone calling card
Camera
Emergency medical and contact info in wallet
The Most Awesome Map Site
http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/historic_parks.html
