Kingston, ON to Victoria, BC-First long trip

Hey all, so I'm about to graduate from university and as it look right now, I'm going to be able to take the entire month of August off before I have to return for grad school in September.  This amazing girl from school lives in Victoria and she's offered me a place to stay and to be a 'tour guide' of the west coast if I was to go out there to see her, so it looks like I'd better start planning...

The thing is, I've never gone really long distance before.  I use my Viffer to commute to school (about 100km one way, all TransCanada slab) but that's been about the extent of my long distance riding.  I have, however, been riding consistently since I was a little kid (only about 2 years total without a bike of some sort), and have done many 5-600 km 'twisty' days of mixed riding with friends.

The good news:  I have pretty much no responsibility to anyone for anything during this window of opportunity.  I am free and clear to do whatever, go wherever, etc.
The bad news:  I am a student with fairly limited economic means, so I have to do this as inexpensively as possible.

The bike:  

Silver '01, purchased last year-13,500km (8500 of which are mine)
-Givi touring windshield
-Givi sideracks and monokey hardbags  (36L)
-Nelson Riggs magnetic tank bag (expandable)
-New (<200km) PP2CT F+R tires
-accessory outlet hardwired
-synthetic oil used since new (verified)

What I have for gear (so far):

Held short cuff gloves
Icon helmet(matte black)
PowerTrip leather jacket (black)
Teknik textile jacket (silver/red)

I also have some pretty high end camping gear (1 man tent, sleeping bag, small stove, etc) that packs up really light and small and a GPS unit (both a standalone and a smartphone app).

I know that I'm going to need the basics, like a good quality rain suit and maybe a quieter/more comfortable helmet, but I'm sure that even with lots of time to plan that I'll overlook something glaringly important, like a portable air compressor or pump....see, I just thought of something else that I have to get.

I need help making sure that this trip happens-there is something about this girl that tells me I need to ride across the country to see her, and that I shouldn't pass this opportunity up.  Any advice, experiences, trip route suggestions, etc are appreciated.  Rest assured that I will be documenting the entire trip, with photos, videos, and a story for everyone as well.

Are you going across Canada or are you going to do a little side trip into the USA?

[image: View Post]SiRCivic, on 24 March 2011 - 07:56 AM, said:

I need help making sure that this trip happens-there is something about this girl that tells me I need to ride across the country to see her, and that I shouldn't pass this opportunity up.  Any advice, experiences, trip route suggestions, etc are appreciated.  Rest assured that I will be documenting the entire trip, with photos, videos, and a story for everyone as well.

Yes, it sounds to me like you need to make this trip.  I think we'll understand if you don't document, um, all of it...   :biggrin:

I'll PM my trip list if there's no length limit.

August should be good for camping.  Take your gear.  I usually don't cook.   Shopping, cleanup, coolers - too much messing around.  Take a plate and a basic set of cutlery for take out and the like.

Gear: Get a pair of leather or textile riding pants (at a minimum).  I usually ride in a t shirt and bicycle shorts under my riding gear.  This keeps my jeans clean for changing into at the end of the day.  Don't pack lots of clothes, but plan on doing a rinse nightly.  Hardcore types have three sets of clothes:  one on, one clean, and one drying.

Don't take the direct route, and stop at some landmarks, parks, etc on the way.

Glenn

[image: View Post]Gerrys02800, on 24 March 2011 - 08:42 AM, said:

Are you going across Canada or are you going to do a little side trip into the USA?




Not sure yet.  From what I understand, the route through the States is shorter, but also more scenic.  I'm not going to be pressed for time at all, but I also don't necessarily want to spend the entire month on the road either...the faster I get to BC the longer I can spend there   :biggrin:

[image: View Post]rdguy, on 24 March 2011 - 08:54 AM, said:

[image: View Post]SiRCivic, on 24 March 2011 - 07:56 AM, said:

I need help making sure that this trip happens-there is something about this girl that tells me I need to ride across the country to see her, and that I shouldn't pass this opportunity up.  Any advice, experiences, trip route suggestions, etc are appreciated.  Rest assured that I will be documenting the entire trip, with photos, videos, and a story for everyone as well.

Yes, it sounds to me like you need to make this trip.  I think we'll understand if you don't document, um, all of it...   :biggrin:



Hahahaha yeah, some things I'll have to keep private.   Good advice though, thanks.  PM away!

I would say when you leave go the USA route and enjoy the ride down to Victoria. Plan a route that will take you to the following:

When you get into the WA area, google Twisp WA from there, take the #20 to the following cities: Winthrop - Marblemount - Concrete - this is a great ride with places to camp if needed. Then any route you want to arrive on the #5 hwy to the border crossing. Once you cross into Canada your on the #99. Follow that until you hit # 17, which will take you to the Tsawwassen Ferrry terminal which is a 1.5 hour ride to the Island. Catch a nap and when you drive off the ferry your in Sidney BC ... about 30 min from Victoria

When you leave. then go into the BC interior - Alberta and make your home.

enjoy the ride down, see the sights - punch it home.

Really, enjoy the ride.  Else you could fly.  The Upper Peninsula is nice riding, and then it's straight west through N Dakota and Montana.  Come back via Thunder Bay.

Glenn

[image: View Post]Gerrys02800, on 24 March 2011 - 11:15 AM, said:

I would say when you leave go the USA route and enjoy the ride down to Victoria.

This might help you think about what you need.

http://www.ironbutt.com/tech/aow.cfm

Hey,
That should be a great trip!!  I'm jealous!

Now, as for suggestions, here's what I got--based on what you said:
-enjoy getting there as much as possible
-if you're going in August and money's tight, I'd leave the rain suit home (now, if you have $50-60, you can find some that will be fine; have you heard of motorcyclegear.com?); weather is usually quite nice, and you can always wait out the occasional shower (invest that money in love gloves...)

-you could swing by Seattle on the way there to check it out and take the ferry from there (or on the way back)
and my only important piece of advice: don't rush too much. Give yourself time to rest (one stop every 2hours), if you get tired or if it rains to much, stop for coffee or whatever.

It will make the trip more enjoyable and a lot safer. Other than that, enjoy and, yes, please document!!!

One last thing. If you think you'll have some spare time once in Victoria, you can always try and contact some members in advance to see if they can show you some good roads.

Cheers and enjoy!!

C

Good luck on the trip! The rewards certainly justify the what it takes to get there.

Monk, thanks for posting the IBA travel list, I very much enjoyed reading it.

Now I know why I joined this board, you guys are great!  Thanks for all the advice so far.  That Iron Butt AOW site is really going to help give me a good idea of what to expect, I've already added it to my bookmarks.  

I think you guys are right, enjoying the actual trip there is what's important to focus on, and then just booking it home afterwards.  That way no matter how it turns out, the trip is still memorable in a good way.  

On a side note, anybody from the west coast know what the job market is like out there for recent grads? Just in case.....

Sounds like a great trip in the making.

Here are some links to some other threads from this site. You might want to coincide your trip with the VFRD Nelson rally. Great roads and you will be able to meet 20-30 fellow VFRD members. The first link is to last years ride, not an official VFRD rally. http://www.vfrdiscus...the-best-of-bc/

The second link is to this year's rally in August. http://www.vfrdiscus...__1#entry732737

Hi Sir civic,
Be prepared to be blown away by a trip of this magnitude,....now back to reality! :mellow:
I am jealous as I lived in Vancouver for a few months last year for the Olympics and loved it.One of the best places in the world and Ive been around the globe.I also got to know some of the local ladies. :goofy: Beautiful,intelligent and cool.
I'm an experienced tourer.Many trips to the southern Appalachians,New England,Eastern Canada,Europe,several California and cross country USA so I'll throw in my 2 cents.
My advice would be,

Do a few shorts trips before you leave
Since you've never toured or even taken a trip ,I would get your feet wet,(literally) by taking a few short trips before you go.All day,overnight,weekends,multiple days.You will get a feel for what it takes to be away from the conveniences of home and long days in the saddle ,exposed to all kinds of weather and problems.Believe it or not ,to get on the bike day after, day after, day does creates  mental and physical challenges that does take some conditioning and adjustment to.You'll get,sore wrists,butt,back.You'll be tired as you won't be sleeping in your own bed,maybe on the ground,and riding 8-10 hrs a day does wear you down,especially as your mind gets assaulted by so many(countless) new and beautiful sites.

Be realistic,50 Miles an hour average
Sounds like you want to spend time in BC with your friend as much as you want to do the trip.I would get there as quickly and safely as possible all the while taking in sites,photo ops and taking to locals.This will give you more options on your return trip in case you want to wait to the last second to return if things go well   :biggrin:   A good rule of thumb that many experienced tourers use is the 50 miles per hour average.No matter what speed you hold at all day on slab,when you factor in ,food,fuel,bathroom and stretch stops you will still average about 50 miles per hour,even if you hold at 75 mph on the slab.If you get off on the twisties,hey that's why you got a VFR!,double your MPH average.
10 hr day via slab = 500 miles
10 hr day via twisties = 250 miles
Of course these will vary but they are a good place to start but believe me if you've never done it ,10 hrs in the saddle is a long time.A lot of my friends refer to me as an Iron Butt as I can go for 12-16 hrs in the saddle but 8 is a good target to shoot for.This also doesn't factor in bad weather,and break-downs.
Google maps says the faster way is via a US route,not the most scenic but you could fast track the first few days ,but take the twisties once you get out west.You won't regret it.
http://maps.google.com/

Equipment
Seems like you've got you bike sorted a couple of things I would add,
DO NOT ELIMINATE A RAIN SUIT.- It  will rain,you will be uncomfortable if you get wet, especially if it's cold.
Heated grips-it gets cold at the high elevations,even in August.When I went X-country I rode through several blizzards in August and September.You can get an under the grip model for about $40.That's what I have on my VTEC.
Vista-cruise throttle lock-Your wrist will thank you.Have one on every one of my bikes @ $20
Heli-bars-Keep a look out on the forum or Ebay for a used set. Will help with comfort over many miles.
After market seat-Same as above
Heated vest-Same as above
Tire puncture kit-A must on a long trip
Waterproof cool-weather gloves.If your first set gets wet or it gets very cold
Water wind-proof light fleece-Good to wear on or off bike ,doesn't take up much weight or space
Textile all the way-I wear full leathers all the time for sport riding,but for touring,textiles the way to go.Lighter,water resistant,warmer,cooler.If leather gets cold,hot,or wet it takes a looong time to adjust.
Fleece neck gator-Keeping your neck warm makes a huge difference when cold
Extra regulator-As you know a weak point on our bikes,mine went on my 4 gen and I was stuck for 5 days while waiting for one
Volt gauge-See above
Light weight trickle charger-See above
Assorted tools-More than stock set

This trip could change your life.For me sport-touring is like a drug.Seeing things and hitting roads you've never been on is addictive.Something you will remember the rest of your like.Hey you may end up moving out there, :fing02:
I'm about 2 hours south of the Adirondacks,and Vermont if you want to meet up during the spring and summer for one days or overnights ,I'll defiantly be up for it .
Michael

First thing to do is avoid buying gear in Kingston. GP Bikes in Whitby has everything you need a 50% of what a K-Town store will charge you. They'll do everything mail order as well no problem.

PM me once the weather is gets nice we can setup a day ride somewhere. I'm only a half an hour out of K-Town. Lots of great riding north of Kingston.

Or like said in the post above, some great mountain riding only 2hours away in upper NY state. My brother and I are already talking about a trip always room for more. And it makes for a good shake down trip.

I went to the east coast 5 years ago when I got my 07. Ik never camp from the bike again. But I think a lot of that is age now.

[image: View Post]mznyc, on 25 March 2011 - 10:41 AM, said:

http://maps.google.c...=N&hl=en&tab=wl

Interesting link...

Google maps says 1 day 23 hrs. through the US. Riding vs. driving is harder, so double the time to 4 days and you should be good. Take 5-7 days if you want to look around a bit, or even take a day off. I've done 9-10 hr days on the bike, and the fun goes out of it after the first 6 hrs.  

Get some earplugs ~ wind noise will fatigue you like you wouldn't believe.

I had a roommate years ago that once rode his Virago 1100 from Kingston to Edmonton non-stop, but I don't think he would recommend it.

Thanks to everyone for the replies and interest.

[image: View Post]dweese, on 26 March 2011 - 11:44 AM, said:

First thing to do is avoid buying gear in Kingston. GP Bikes in Whitby has everything you need a 50% of what a K-Town store will charge you.

+1 on GP Bikes.  I bought my Givi stuff from them, got a pretty fair deal...not as cheap as I could get online, but the guy spent a good 45 minutes with me making sure the bags would fit right, and I don't mind paying if the service is good.

[image: View Post]SAFE-T, on 26 March 2011 - 12:20 PM, said:

[image: View Post]mznyc, on 25 March 2011 - 10:41 AM, said:

http://maps.google.c...=N&hl=en&tab=wl

Interesting link...


Hahahaha I didn't even catch that....I looked at the map, though, it's going to be farther than I thought.  I'm thinking that I might take my time going out there, budgeting for 8-9 days even.  I don't want to feel rushed, that would take alot of the enjoyment out of the experience.  Regardless of how long it takes me to get there, the timing should work out that I'll be in BC at the same time as the PCNW meet that is being set up, so with any luck I'll be able to meet up with some of you guys in person as well before I have to start heading back.

Is it too early to start getting excited?

[image: View Post]SiRCivic, on 30 March 2011 - 06:14 PM, said:

Thanks to everyone for the replies and interest.

[image: View Post]dweese, on 26 March 2011 - 11:44 AM, said:

First thing to do is avoid buying gear in Kingston. GP Bikes in Whitby has everything you need a 50% of what a K-Town store will charge you.

+1 on GP Bikes.  I bought my Givi stuff from them, got a pretty fair deal...not as cheap as I could get online, but the guy spent a good 45 minutes with me making sure the bags would fit right, and I don't mind paying if the service is good.

[image: View Post]SAFE-T, on 26 March 2011 - 12:20 PM, said:

[image: View Post]mznyc, on 25 March 2011 - 10:41 AM, said:

http://maps.google.c...=N&hl=en&tab=wl

Interesting link...


Hahahaha I didn't even catch that....I looked at the map, though, it's going to be farther than I thought.  I'm thinking that I might take my time going out there, budgeting for 8-9 days even.  I don't want to feel rushed, that would take alot of the enjoyment out of the experience.  Regardless of how long it takes me to get there, the timing should work out that I'll be in BC at the same time as the PCNW meet that is being set up, so with any luck I'll be able to meet up with some of you guys in person as well before I have to start heading back.

Is it too early to start getting excited?

I think it's just about time to get excited. God knows others are... :cheerleader: This being said, I'd take my time to get out here; you can scope some interesting roads and enjoy the trip. BTW, have you ever heard of Destination Highways? If you don't have the book, you can check out their web site (link here). Great descriptions of all the best roads in BC, and I'm sure you can hit a few on your way here or out of here. We always do when we meet in Nelson. Trust me, you won't regret checking it out....

C

[image: View Post]PolarBear, on 30 March 2011 - 06:55 PM, said:

I think it's just about time to get excited. God knows others are... :cheerleader: This being said, I'd take my time to get out here; you can scope some interesting roads and enjoy the trip. BTW, have you ever heard of Destination Highways? If you don't have the book, you can check out their web site (link here). Great descriptions of all the best roads in BC, and I'm sure you can hit a few on your way here or out of here. We always do when we meet in Nelson. Trust me, you won't regret checking it out....

C



Thanks, I have checked that out before.  I'm actually hoping to do one better:  I'm just wrapping up a degree studying GIS (basically the theoretical stuff behind google earth and digital mapping) and I'm currently working on an algorithm that will find me the curviest roads between here and there within a set time period of travel.  All I'll have to do is input my total desired travel time (based on an average speed), select point A and point B and it will map out the most fun route between any two destinations.  If it works, I'll be spending the next year developing an application so that others (non-GIS people) can use it as well.  I actually got the idea from reading about the Destinations series in an old Cycle Canada that I picked up at a garage sale.  If it doesn't work, I'll have to find a new plan for my Masters   :huh:

FWIW, you've got a fabulous trip ready to go! I rode to Newfoundland and back last summer in preparation for my Ottawa to Nanaimo trip. A couple equipment items I learned about:

1.  Tires: Between now and then, you might be needing new tires or at least you will need a set when you get out to Victoria (figure the time between now and August PLUS another 5000 kms to get you out there). I would order a set of PR2s and have them drop shipped to your friend's place. Check either Bayside in Vancouver or Pete's in Montreal for some good prices (Pete's in particular, has incredible deals).

2.  Riding pants: I noticed in your list of gear you don't have any riding pants. You might want to consider getting a set of Joe Rocket Alter Egos or something on closeout (since money's tight). Wet jeans in a long day really do suck.

3.  Raingear: For a budget set, I bought a construction outfit from Crappy Tire that lasted me a season. Cost me 20$. Just make sure you buy it MUCH bigger than you are so it fits over the gear. That or go to CT in your gear and try them on.

4.  Additional lighting: I know you mentioned your budget as a concern but you might want to consider adding additional lighting to the back of the bike, particularly for the ride back when you'll be riding into dusk. Admore lighting out of Calgary makes a set of drop-in lights for the Givi V-35s that aren't hard to wire up. They add quite a bit of light to the back of the bike, give the drivers behind you a better idea of how much wider you are, and integrate the turn-signal capability out of the box. I'd be happy to help you out if you're up for a ride to Ottawa one day.

At the least, I'd add some reflective tape under the red lenses so you're a little more visible.

Hope these ideas help! Keep us updated on the plans!

WooHoo!  Just got a call from GP Bikes, my Givi bags are in!  And to top it off, because it took so long (I ordered them last year, but they were on backorder) they are throwing in a $50 gift certificate for their new store.  I'm gonna head to T.O. this weekend to visit family and pick them up on the way back.  Any suggestions on what to spend the $50 on?

I also told my family about my plan-my Dad is going to help out by lending me some of his gear if I need it.  So now I've got leather riding pants, a throttle lock, rain gear, travel charger/booster, tire puncture kit, toolkit, and a lambskin seat cover (if I REALLY wanted it).  He's even offered to take the top box (40L) off his Vstrom if I want it-it's got auxiliary LED brake and running lights already installed.

Things are starting to take shape already, and it's not even April yet.  I guess the universe wants me to make this trip   :tour:

Thanks to everyone for their advice so far.

I'd seriously consider this route and if possible a side route up and back to Jasper. If the weather is nice you won't believe the scenery.

Full Size

Yep, excellent route. Great roads in Washington, great roads around Nelson/Kaslo/New Denver.
If you have time avoid going on the #1 to Banff (boring, traffic, slab). Loop through the mountains and head back towards highway 3 instead. Take the 97 through Invermere and stop at Radium Hot Springs for a dip in the hot pool (natural hot springs).
Then head straight across to the Icefields Parkway en route to Jasper - one of the most beautiful roads in Canada (IMHO).
Keep us posted on details. I'd happily be your guide in our area.

mike

[image: View Post]choco, on 31 March 2011 - 09:29 AM, said:

I'd seriously consider this route and if possible a side route up and back to Jasper. If the weather is nice you won't believe the scenery.

Full Size

Once in a lifetime trip. ENJOY    !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

hey man,

great to hear that you're about to undertake this awesome trip!

I did a simmilar one, from Toronto to Los Angeles and then back, making a big loop around the US en tour.  

things I wouldn't miss if I was you,

Black Hills and Colonel Custard National Wildlife reserve then drive by the Mt. Roushmore (as its not much to see - and it cost 15 bucks to wait inline with about a million germans in rented RV's to get a bit closer to the mountain)

yellowstone - its like being an astronaut. minus the clumsy suit.  


as far as  tenting it across the US, take advantage of National Forests - which have campground set up and are free.  Also if you're in a pinch for money, you can always camp for free on any federal land in the US.  just make sure you take all the usual security measures.
make sure you have  a really good sleeping mat.  becasue after my month on the road, without a good mat, I regretted not spending the extra scratch on it. would have been best money spent.
I also left a bit of room in my sadlebags for a can of stew/soup/noodles or whatever food I could grab at the local grocery store for the day.  I usually cooked a few eggs every morning for food. a loaf of bread, like hard french bread would last a few days,  and I would buy like 6 eggs (got one of those plastic container things to keep them in and not break) and two tomatoes (carbs, protein and vitamins and al the other good stuff), have that in the morning made in a teflon coated camping pan over a little burner (the ones that attach directly to a small propane tank - which would last almost three weeks like this) in the morning so that I'm not waiting on the local restaurant to open for breakfast - some of the best riding on the back roads I found to be in the morning - if I got on the road by 7am, i could cover good distance, have lunch and dinner and get to the next campground in good time... not setting up in the dark helps.. but sometimes you have to, so be familliar with your gear.  sounds like you are.


well,

enough with all the advice.  I went without knowing jack all about long distance touring, and only having ridden for a few seasons up till then.  I just got a map of the US from my local CAA place - where I got the membership ***THAT YOU DON'T WANT TO OVERLOOK***  should something happen, you don't want to be left to the mercy of the road! Get the CAA platinum membership, its $115 peace of mind - as is a functioning cell phone for that matter.  If you go the american route, you may have to get an unlocked phone, or just pick up a phne at 7-11 when you cross on a pay as you go basis, and just use it for emergencies and to have anyone who needs to get a hold fo you have somwhere to call.

where was I, oh yea, I got a map and set off.. I found out along the way what worked for me and more times than not I ended up talking to some other bikers from the area or jus someone who wanted to chat about motorcycles and got suggested all these amazing roads and way s to get places!

don't alienate yourself from the world with technology... don't be afraid to chat up locals and find out a good camp ground or a good road or restaurant and such...


BEST OF LUCK MAN!


as you have a few more months before you go keep reading what people here have to say and take it as a guide, but dont' overthink the thing... JUST DO IT!

[image: View Post]vfrgo, on 31 March 2011 - 12:42 PM, said:

  I just got a map of the US from my local CAA place - where I got the membership ***THAT YOU DON'T WANT TO OVERLOOK***  should something happen, you don't want to be left to the mercy of the road! Get the CAA platinum membership, its $115 peace of mind - as is a functioning cell phone for that matter.  If you go the american route, you may have to get an unlocked phone, or just pick up a phne at 7-11 when you cross on a pay as you go basis, and just use it for emergencies and to have anyone who needs to get a hold fo you have somwhere to call.

I can't believe I forgot CAA... :blush:    Yes, get one of the upgraded memberships that will pick up a bike.

[image: View Post]vfrgo, on 31 March 2011 - 12:42 PM, said:

I also left a bit of room in my sadlebags for a can of stew/soup/noodles or whatever food I could grab at the local grocery store for the day.  I usually cooked a few eggs every morning for food. a loaf of bread, like hard french bread would last a few days,  and I would buy like 6 eggs (got one of those plastic container things to keep them in and not break) and two tomatoes (carbs, protein and vitamins and al the other good stuff), have that in the morning made in a teflon coated camping pan over a little burner (the ones that attach directly to a small propane tank - which would last almost three weeks like this) in the morning so that I'm not waiting on the local restaurant to open for breakfast - some of the best riding on the back roads I found to be in the morning - if I got on the road by 7am, i could cover good distance, have lunch and dinner and get to the next campground in good time... not setting up in the dark helps.. but sometimes you have to, so be familliar with your gear.  sounds like you are.


I like getting up about 6, and getting on the road ASAP.  I might have some OJ at the camp while packing.  A late-ish breakfast (9.30 or 10) at a diner, back on the road and an early dinner.  These days, that's the only way I can keep from puffing up like the Michelin Man on road food.   :biggrin:    I know some people can cook on a trip like this, I'm just not one of them...  YMMV, as they say.  Vfrgo is right about vitamins and such - even I keep some apples in the tank bag.

[image: View Post]SiRCivic, on 30 March 2011 - 07:31 PM, said:

Thanks, I have checked that out before.  I'm actually hoping to do one better:  I'm just wrapping up a degree studying GIS (basically the theoretical stuff behind google earth and digital mapping) and I'm currently working on an algorithm that will find me the curviest roads between here and there within a set time period of travel.  All I'll have to do is input my total desired travel time (based on an average speed), select point A and point B and it will map out the most fun route between any two destinations.  If it works, I'll be spending the next year developing an application so that others (non-GIS people) can use it as well.  I actually got the idea from reading about the Destinations series in an old Cycle Canada that I picked up at a garage sale.  If it doesn't work, I'll have to find a new plan for my Masters   :huh:

I wondered what you were studying.  So let me get this straight: you can beta test your work on your VFR?  Normally I'm not a jealous man, but...

Yes, it is time to get excited.

Glenn