I need some guidance from the collective...

I am beginning to acquire some items for an epic trip next summer with my just retired uncle.  He has this crazy idea to ride to Alaska and up to the Arctic Circle then back to the southeast in 6-8 weeks.

I have recently purchased a 3 person hiking tent for those occasions when we will be just done for the day wherever we may be.  Also looking at a few hiking cots for a little more comfort.  I have secured some first aid travel kits for (wait for it) hiking.  We have settled on hiking/back packing equipment for the items we will be taking as they are typically lighter and pack more tightly.

Here is the area where I know I need some direction.  My uncle has ridden to the Black Hills, Milwaukee and Sturgis several times. He knows how to ride without a doubt. He started almost 50 years ago on a Triumph and purchased a new Harley in the early 70s.  He still has his 1978 75th anniversary something or other (kind of a dresser) as well as CPO Harley that is quit capable (stainless steel brake lines, very nice quality stuff along with some usable creature comforts) but he is going to purchase a new Road King in a few months and break it in before we head out.

That being said, I am not taking any of my VFR's.  I am strongly considering taking my 110,000 mile 2003 ST1300A.  I am also considering trying to get some "marketing support" from Motus or Aprilia or Kawasaki or even Honda to write about the trip briefly each day and give an honest opinion of how the bike I am on is doing and what changes I would make (if any) for others who may to make a similar trek.

So I am looking for a bike that can cut loose a bit (primarily in the sweepers), handle the lack of pavement in Alaska and not need to stop for repairs or to replace parts that have fallen off on a 7 week journey.  I have identified the usual liter class suspects Aprilia Caponard and Tuono 1100, a Ducati Multistrada, Triumph Explorer, and Africa Twin.  I was considering the VFR1200X until this video review http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/video-commute-2016-honda-vfr1200x  confirmed what I felt I would think of the specs.

So what do you guys think?  I am right now leaning towards the Multistrada having not put a leg over the Tuono 1100 if I can't get some kind of Motus marketing adjustment for writing about the bike as I review kit and ride stuff daily.

CC, while not on my bucket list it sounds like you're planning a great adventure.

As to which bike - well, weight, fuel range, and reliability should be major factors in your decision. Nick Sanders rode an R1 around the world but no many of us have that kind of determination.

The Tuono seems to be a really odd choice - even with a set of TKC80s. And your ADV picks are all on the large size, excepting perhaps the Africa Twin. Don't forget that you'll be riding a lot of non-paved roads once you get to Alaska. Add a little moisture and those roads become extremely treacherous, and a tip over or two isn't out of the question.

I'd suggest a V-Strom 650 w/wire-spoke wheels (not so flashy, but cheap), or a BMW F800GS (cool, but pricey). Both seem to be reliable, offer great range, and are reasonably light.

It's a long round trip Tennessee. Have you given any thought to taking the Alaska Marine Highway from Bellingham, Wash to either Skagway or Whittier, Alaska?

Lorne,

Thanks for the input.  I considered many middle weight bikes primarily for the reasons you raise.  I have half a mind (many would say stop the statement right there) to take my ST up to Seattle and buy a left over KLR650 to thrash on the Alaskan Highway then pick up my ST in Seattle.  I do not think I could make the cross country parts of the trip on a wee-strom.

If I were going to attempt that I would probably just as soon take one of the VFRs. I kind of want to use one bike for the entire trip and am comfortable enough on loose dirt/gravel to attempt it on whatever I ride cross-continent.

My uncle has studied his routes and where he wants to go for many years and he has mentioned Skagway.  I am just "bandwagonning" onto his efforts so any and all input is greatly appreciated.  

I also agree on the V-strom, it is much more capable than you think, It is capable of high speeds with lots of gear, has lots of luggage options, has a huge range, is super reliable and comfortable and doesn't handle badly at all.

I deffinetly would not take an Aprillia of any sort.

Whatever you decide, sounds like it will be a blast.

dont count out the Guzzi Norge

[image: norge8.jpg]

and believe it or not, this is a very capable machine. Also the most comfortable bike I have ever ridden

[image: 412259_1_1998_Harley-Davidson_FLHTPI.jpg]

With an 8 weeks window, I'd say it does not matter WHAT you ride... 

Heck a Dutch guy rode a Guzzi V7 from Deadhorse to Ushuaia... He is now on his way to Tokyo :goofy:

The one consideration I'd make is "do I want to be -at least have a chance to be- able to fix any issues myself along the way"  or not. A simple, older carburetor bike will allow for that to some degree. any hi-tech will involve calling and waiting for the AAA..

TN to Seatle ~4,500km one way, for which a Vstrom (or F800GS) would do nicely, assuming you two donot intend to superslab at high speed.  Redslut did 860km in one day to the north of Denmark (with some torrential rain).

Yes, have a few targets to hit (I had 2 Scandic NR's, a seriously ill former colleague, the crazy Fin and the Joey Dunlop memorial, the rest was up for grabs) but the biggest gift you and your uncle can give each other is the gift of being on the road, smelling the roses and shit by the roadside.  Thing is, life happens when you are busy making plans.

By accepting that weather/whim might bring you to other places, you might end up in unexpected places....

[image: 22_zps1qlemi3c.jpg]

You need to stop for fuel anyway and you have the time.

Get into shape (last time I saw you in 2012 you look OK already....), do regularly fitness/exercise. Keep up the good work

6th gens do ok on gravel...

[image: 1adb839c.jpg]

Yammie?

[image: 20_zps471296b8.jpg]

Would I take this one to Alaska?

[image: a7c878de.jpg]

Or a Vstrom with additional options to keep me warm at night??

[image: dl1000_zps3a6e7f64.jpg]

(Man I was a fat f@cker then.....)

don't go overboard with the luggage (like my brother tends to do,,,,,,

[image: 20130427_03_zpsd318d9c1.jpg]

Like I said....

[image: P6207533_zpsxjc59wzr.jpg]

No power, but it will go on and on....

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Last for now, GEAR!

Get and start using nice outdoor gear (Polartec fleeces, beanie etc). I *think* you've been around the world too so know that weather and home comforts are not like home everywhere.  There is no bad weather, only bad clothing....

Cold head while cycling with a helmet on at 6AM in winter?

Not me!!!!!

Just remember your uncle will be on a road King, while it will do ok on the highway, it will be slow going off highway, in dirt in Alaska.

Ride the ST to California, borrow Chris's CB and ride it to Alaska.  The CB has the same ergos and weight as the Multi without all that pesky horsepower. 

http://www.cycleworld.com/2014/10/02/2015-honda-vfr800x-crossrunner-first-look-adventure-motorcycle-review-photos

Pick up a souvenir when passing through Canada. 

Sorry, I thought these were available here but I may have been wrong :(

used Tiger 800's are getting cheap....... and the 650 Versys will do anything a Strom will with more comfort imho. Smaller DS will do just fine riding with a Road King and the low speed limits in Canada.

With regards to VFROZ and Lorne I will have to revisit the wee Strom.  We will find triple digit cruising in many areas as we traverse the continent so I was discounting anything smaller than a VFR800 or so because at triple digits I get about 140 miles per tank and fuel stops can become the primary consideration in more isolated areas of the west.

I could do a Guzzi Timmy and test rode EVERY american classic at Daytona bike week this past year in trying to find something that I could love on this trip knowing that my uncle will not budge from his brand.  I kind of like the Indian Roadmaster and there are a couple of Victorys that I could do this trip on and I did not mind the Road King and Road Glide that tested. None of them in Police bike spec  :wink:

Excellent feedback Dutchy, thank you for sharing your vast experience with road trips on two wheels.  6-8 weeks for the ride is good and could probably be done by Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels on a moped but we are leaving from SC during the week following Memorial Day and taking a southerly route across the US to the Grand canyon and then up the coast of California to the Arctic Circle.  I know we will hit Idaho and Yellowstone but think he is planning that for the ride home.  I want to do Zion on the way out so the trip will be about 10,000 - 11,000 miles or 16-18,000 km.

I will be linked on my phone working many days while riding, stopping to say hello and buy lunch for some clients on the way and therefore hauling a small lap top for daily ride notes and emails so I can just as easily plug into a power commander and check a fuel injector issue as pull apart a carb on the side of the road.  

I do like that you brought the wrenching vs towing issue to front of mind as I decide how much is enough for roadside tools to carry.

All great recommendations on packing lightly and the newer tech type under garments allow for a sink wash and drying while bungeed to a soft tail bag on the road.

3DCylce has nailed the point that has my net cast wide for suitable bike.  The pacing item will be the Road King on the Alaskan Highway and through the Yukon.

Randy I haven't ruled out a "swap" while in Cali for the little CB500X.  And thanks to my Canadian brother for the 800 Cross Runner link.  It's good to have options.

Regarding the inexpensive used Tiger 800s I think I am going to want to start with a new bike as opposed to a new to me bike.  If I take a used bike it will be one of my current bikes as I know them and know what expendables and maintenance they will need on a 10,000 mile trip.

So I rented a Super Tenere in Australia, and expected to return it knowing that I had to have one. I didn't. It was nice, but not life-changing. I just bought a V-Strom 650 and love it every bit as much, and for the price it is outstanding!

Polarbear and I recently did a little Vancouver Island ride on our V-Stroms (I'm a terrible influence), and over coffee and cookies he said "tell me again why we need our VFRs?"

what made the police FLH so comfy for me was the foot, butt, hand triangle was perfect. Also the seat on a police bike is an ass cradling solo seat that has its own suspension.

[image: RoadKingSeatAfter.jpg]

This little video has me thinking big red...

Hip, thanks for the heads up on the Yamaha.  Would consider an FJ1300 as a sub for my ST.

Depending on how deep your pockets are the KTM super duke would do well here. I believe a tad better over the Aprilia IMO,  though it be close. but on the gravel off pavement I think the KTM well hold up better.   On a side note if you make it to Seattle, and the timing is good, drop me a note,  be fun to hook up. ;)

CornerCarver,

I know you said you were not taking any of your VFR's, but it has been done.................

http://advrider.com/index.php?threads/two-reasonable-guys-and-one-idiot-on-a-vfr-have-dinner-in-prudhoe.706698/#post-16387807

LookingHard

RVFR, thanks for the invite (pending schedule match).  We will definitely take you up if the timing works for you.

I found this test and while it is biased toward the off-road section they do offer candid and insightful feedback on the road portion of the bikes tested. They really like the KTM 1190R.

One consideration that hadn't been mentioned is the type of fuel available. many new bikes and especially those of a higher tune will have minimum requirements that may not be met in out-of-the-way locales. 

Also, get some space saver bags for your clothes. They're waterproof and have a one way valve so you can seal and compress the contents with a vacuum type seal.

Another great tip is to pack some items ahead of time and ship to a known waypoint. Nothing like having a bottle of bourbon and clean socks/underwear waiting for you after a long day or week!

I would love to try the new Africa Twin myself.

Harley has an upper hand with their dealer network and being able to plan for cost of tire and oil changes ahead of time at those locations.

SEBSPEED I would love to try the new Africa Twin myself.

timmythecop, 12/10/2016 at 7:58 PM

what made the police FLH so comfy for me was the foot, butt, hand triangle was perfect. Also the seat on a police bike is an ass cradling solo seat that has its own suspension.

[image: RoadKingSeatAfter.jpg]

I know that if WWII was held today that we wouldn't have video of all the Harleys riding through the forest and over bombed out roads of Europe because a different design would be chosen but they do have the history of being able to get it accomplished with pretty much the same bike they are selling today. 

When you think about it, it's kind of weird that most people on this site have only motorcycles manufactured by the Axis power countries.  I am sure we have a few Triumph and Harley owners here as well but the vast majority of bikes today are made by German, Japanese or Italian companies.

If you really are set on having an adventure, there's a Multi in the classifieds. Not new but only 6k miles.
We have a saying at my house...if you think life is dull, your car/bike is not old enough and you're not driving far enough.


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That is a great looking bike and the mileage is amazing for bike of that age.

After leading the Ducati demo rides the last couple of years I think i would want a 2015 or newer with the 160 hp and other doodads and geegaws.  I really liked that bike.

Still may take the ST1300 with 110,000 miles. ;-)

Really trying to find the flaws in a Triumph Explorer right now.

2 hours ago, CornerCarver

\

Really trying to find the flaws in a Triumph Explorer right now.

My brother owns a motorbike repair shop.  New era Triumphs are always there with odd problems.

Your ST1300 may not be a bad choice... 

if anything was duff, it would have broken by now no? You know her inside out, a trusted companion goes a long way..

Should she fail completely during the trip, how long would it take you to acquire another motorcycle?

You contact "us" on VFRD, it might take 3 days including a nice T-bone steak at a local restaurant and yous are on your way again..

So you might miss one of your targets, c'est la vie..

I failed to reach...

[image: Kry%C5%BEi%C5%B3_kalnas_(G%C3%B3ra_Krzy%]

(not religious by a mile, but this was a "must see")

Test the alternator and RR, chuck in a spare and you are good to go..

timmythecop, 12/13/2016 at 3:08 AM

My brother owns a motorbike repair shop.  New era Triumphs are always there with odd problems.

That Triumph Expedition has shaft drive (perfect for an 11,000 miles trip) and electronic cruise control possibly better than shaft drive but also possibly something that needs frequent repairs on the Trumpet.

At this point if I take a bike that I currently own it will be the ST1300.

Some food for thought:

Sweeper, 12/10/2016 at 11:44 AM

Ride the ST to California, borrow Chris's CB and ride it to Alaska.  The CB has the same ergos and weight as the Multi without all that pesky horsepower. 

The CB gets my vote and will accelerate up to triple digits, but hits a wall around 105mph (so I have been told :pinocchio: ).   The tank range is over 200 miles.  Mileage is worse mileage at faster speeds, but probably not enough to rule it out.  It will probably still outrun more thirsty bikes with exception to the ST (for that matter, I would rule out thirsty bikes with small tanks on your list).  I went down two teeth on the rear sprocket with JT steel and a new EK 3D Z series chain and the bike is totally transformed.  The drive train is smooth as silk without the kinky stock chain rattling around and top speed is now theoretically 114mph.  Mount some Pirelli Scorpion Trail 2s and you get a track ready tire that will also do light trail work without issue on a bike that is just simple and silly at the same time.  The benefit of switching out half way is this will limit scheduled time needing to maintain a motorcycle during the trip (tires, oil, etc).  A low power bike is considerably nicer to tires, although your right wrist still has a say.

slo1, 12/10/2016 at 2:48 PM

used Tiger 800's are getting cheap....... and the 650 Versys will do anything a Strom will with more comfort imho. Smaller DS will do just fine riding with a Road King and the low speed limits in Canada.

A Versys or Wee Strom would be a CB500 with more power, faster triple digit speeds, similar Japanese reliability, and most of the same lightweight fun.  In hindsight, I should have bought a Versys to keep up with you hooligans chasing GSXRs on the Foothills.  Then I remember that I don't even do that on the VFR because I do that stuff on a certain BMW at VIR, and the 500 is for a different purpose, but I digress.  I don't think you should underestimate the benefit of reliability for a trip like this.  For that matter, are you sure you want to do this alongside a Harley?  Also consider your knowledge (and your Uncle's) of the bikes in question and combined experience fixing each bike in question on the side of the road (or lack of need to do so).  On the other hand, you may want to consider going all in, and buy the exact same bike as your Uncle's and then carry common failure parts (if feasible).  A mix of SAE and metric toolkits is inefficient use of space and spare parts (ie how cool was it when Matt's caliper bolts fell out and Christian pulled redundant bolts from his subframe to reattach the caliper).  At the very least, duplicate tools can be helpful, as well.  A Motus would be cool, but consider you might need to abandon it in backwoods Alaska and ride 2-up with your Uncle for lack of knowledge, support, and parts along the way.

CornerCarver, 12/13/2016 at 0:15 AM

That is a great looking bike and the mileage is amazing for bike of that age.

After leading the Ducati demo rides the last couple of years I think i would want a 2015 or newer with the 160 hp and other doodads and geegaws.  I really liked that bike.

Still may take the ST1300 with 110,000 miles. ;-)

Really trying to find the flaws in a Triumph Explorer right now.

The Explorer is a Triumph:  that is the flaw.  I'm sure Kimball overlooked this when he bought his, but for the fire-sale price it was a no-brainer.  A major complaint repeatedly heard from the Triumph crew is the several week to month delay to obtain replacement parts, even common failure items.  I don't know if this has changed in recent years, but this kept me from buying a Triumph as a do-it-all bike back when I could only have just one motorcycle.  A Street Triple has always been on the top of my next buy list, but only as a second or third bike in the stable.

And of course, everything Leon says is true.

CornerCarver, 12-12-2016 at 10:07 PM

I know that is WWII was held today that we wouldn't have video of all the Harleys riding through the forest and over bombed out roads of Europe because a different design would be chosen but they do have the history of being able to get it accomplished with pretty much the same bike they are selling today.

The HD may have the same looks as the ones produced during WW2 but under the skin a lot have changed. In fact HD is way ahead of the competition in certain areas. They are the first mayor brand to have produced an electric motorcycle, the LiveWire. The next big thing will be autonomous vehicles and again it is Harley Davidson to be the first to have produced an autonomous motorcycle:

They have to make the electric bike Autonomous. No Harley owner would ride a bike that didn't make their ears bleed or drip oil.

Rosso even though that is a joke (and a funny one with video evidence to boot) the first part of your post rings a bit true. Harley has had stainless brake lines, led lighting and other "advanced" standard items for long period of time.  Many of them may be related to styling touches (such as their clever fuel tank caps, fuel gauges, keyless start and alarm functions) but they woudl be welcome on the bikes that I am shopping and Honda could add a few bits to their larger bikes that already weigh close to 600 pounds.

For a trip you mention, if not a bike you already have, I think a BIG BMW GS (1100,1150 or 1200) would do it in style comfortable whit no chain adjust/oiling issues :wink:

But a other bike that I think would be nice to try, as its a VFR (we are on VFRD after all), for a trip like this is the 800X Crossrunner whit a set of DS tires on it.

But yes, the new Africa twin (or even a older one) is a great bike! You did not get the Yamaha 750 SuperTenere, that might be a bit more comfortable for longer riding distance than the AT (seat comfort), so its out...

The 800X is not available in the US.

I also have issues with that video in the OP....his hp & torque figures are waaaay short, unless they've totally neutered the 1200X in the US.

Africa Twin gets my vote, with the Pan as the 2nd choice but you know your own situation and are best placed to figure it out.

Best of luck.

Just a couple of things that I came across today. Maybe hold out for the new Multi 950.

Just got a message from Big Number One in B'ham. Year end closeouts on Ducati. Just in case Santa needs a little help CC.


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Going to ride a couple of BMW's this afternoon...GS, GSA and S1000XR...maybe ride a Triumph Explorer tomorrow.

Then probably buy a Victory Vizion Touring model to ride with the Harley.  :wink:

Can you say "zero ground clearance"?

Fine on the highway...

7 hours ago, Auspanglish

Can you say "zero ground clearance"?

Fine on the highway...

It doesn't matter if your riding partner is on a Harley Utra Glide then we can only travel at that pace.  Even with the better ground clearance offered by a VFR800 I would rather slow down and dodge the deeper holes than to count on the ground clearance to plow over/through them.

Regardless, I am still hoping to find a bike that I will keep beyond this event and not just a bike that I want to sell once I return.

Thoughts thus far:

Anyone could do this on a BMW GS/GSA

I don't want to be just anyone

There are a lot of good to great bikes available right now

May just roll with my 100k+ 2003 ST1300 just because.  It weighs less than; 1. Indian Roadmaster, 2. Victory Vision Touring, actually less than most other full dress US made bikes

700lbs is still a lot of weight to push around on questionable surfaces around the arctic circle and north

Triumph Explorer is next up to test ride.  Can an Aprilia Tuono 1100 be far behind?  Not sure how close to Knoxville the nearest Aprilia dealer is located.

Sweeper, 12/16/2016 at 2:56 PM

Just a couple of things that I came across today. Maybe hold out for the new Multi 950.

Like that he made, not so much that it has already been done but still like that Victory.

I was kinda hoping you would choose this:

howz about a Ulysses?  It keeps it american for the theme and they are piratically given away in today's market

You have two problems: getting there and then what about Alaska and the roads way up north.  When I went in Alaska in 2010 I only had 3 weeks but we still did 4,000 miles in Canada/Alaska on the bikes plus another 3,000 with a trailer from San Diego to Canadian Border, and 1,500 miles on a ferry in order to save time tires and asses.  So many things to consider ....read some of the ride reports on advrider. 

Any bike can do it BUT.........................................

We took KLRs which you could leave in a ditch forever if things went to hell.  We left some bikes for Dead on the main Alcan highway when we hit 20 mile stretches of gravel and frost heaves. And then the bad roads and dirt in the rain.  Rained every day except one for three weeks!

So when I go again I will take an African Twin or my trusty and disposable KLR.  I would take an adventure bike for sure with fairly decent suspension travel and lots of gas.

What do you think about this one Timmy?

http://www.motoguzzi-us.com/motorcycles/stelvio-1200-ntx.html

Bonus I have read about 30 accounts of various transAlaskan rides and how they prepared (body, bike and gear) and what they would have done differently.  You have been there and I greatly value your thoughts (I think I read a ride report from that trip of your several years ago) but eventually I just have to do it.

My uncle has been planning this for about 4-5 years.  Several Hog riders have done it and he will too.

That being said, I would love love love an Africa Twin but it seems hardly necessary for an 11,000 mile trek when the AT will shine off the pavement and the HD will shine on it.

I think I can do this on damn near anybike available today.  So we will find out if I am capable or delusional.

Dunning-Kruger Effect is a distinct possibility.  :goofy:

Most likely incident will be a low speed tip over in Alaska. Harley's handle those fairly well compared to plastic covered bikes like your ST.
What about a Versys 1k?


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If my bike budget is $20k'ish then I can certainly make a Versys very capable and stay well under budget. Good 1000Ninja engine and more in the vein of what I am looking for I think (99% street bias and a tall sporty bike).

Kind of want cruise control even though the odds of getting two bikes synched on the same cruise speed are inversely proportional to the distance to the next fuel stop...

I like your point about anyone could do it on a BMW GS or KTM.  As far as a Guzzi goes, it has taken me a year to really get my 2001 right (low mileage bike at that). But the plus side of the Guzzi is the low weight, engine and tranny are low on the bike, and this makes for a very fine low speed crawler and lots of confidence.  They also have good suspensions, which you will need.  The here to Canada you will need comfort and wind protection (have you ever ridden through the plain states?).  Canada to the end will be mostly about tires and suspension.  I would plan on a tire change somewhere on the way up there.

Some sort of cruise or throttle lock is a need, not an option.

We all expect a lot of pictures!!!!

This may be quirky enough for me.

if you want that, go with the simpler, better version, that is more dirt oriented. Less than half the cash too.

or go with the guy who started the whole thing

12 hours ago, CornerCarver

Bonus I have read about 30 accounts of various transAlaskan rides and how they prepared (body, bike and gear) and what they would have done differently.  You have been there and I greatly value your thoughts (I think I read a ride report from that trip of your several years ago) but eventually I just have to do it.

My uncle has been planning this for about 4-5 years.  Several Hog riders have done it and he will too.

That being said, I would love love love an Africa Twin but it seems hardly necessary for an 11,000 mile trek when the AT will shine off the pavement and the HD will shine on it.

I think I can do this on damn near anybike available today.  So we will find out if I am capable or delusional.

Dunning-Kruger Effect is a distinct possibility.  :goofy:

 The most important part of one's plan is to go!!!  We committed when we booked a ferry ride back on the Inland passage...best thing I ever did! You will never achieve plan perfection as there are too many variables and part of the fun is to just Wing it!  Every kind of bike in the world travels up to Alaska!  It is all good.  Even if they don't go down bikes take a beating though!

Think about tire management!  This was a common sight.  On the way up to Dawson City.

I remember this guy ..... he was "done" almost to Haines I think after coming from Florida.  He was on a tour competition of sorts.  Nobody with him and he was totally wired and exhausted....this shot was after a grueling gravel section of the main highway (maybe twenty miles again plus...but lots of these sections not just one).  Lizard was his name and on a brand new "mostly then" Harley.  The moral of the story is to stop when you need to....especially with the extra time you have available.

Also think about renting a POS KLR or Vstrom or something similar when you get to Fairbanks if you really want to ride the dirt.  We started "the top of the world" in the sun and then it turned in to a quagmire. Wow that looks like sun but most of the time it looked like this.

Or this on the way to Denali.  We camped in the rain that night again.  We used heated vests and grips every day.

More Sun and shrapnel.

Do it! The trip is a right of passage and not about corners ...CC!

We are committed as I agreed to go with him and thought the summer of 2018 was the goal.  He was packaged out at his job last January and has been stepping up the planning.  We are now leaving South Carolina on Wednesday May 31st or Thursday June 1st.

The Moto Guzzi dealer in GA tells that the Stelvio is discontinued and the last one has probably been built already. No factory cruise available but aftermarket stuff works (so says he).

buy the Alaska (Africa) Twin in Seattle, take it up and back, then sell it when you get back to Seattle.  Stick with Big Red.  You know every town will have a dealer so you can get parts and service if needed.

Or get a Grom.  

http://lanesplitter.jalopnik.com/this-nutty-bastard-rode-a-honda-grom-from-portland-to-1625358412

CornerCarver, ‎12‎/‎10‎/‎2016 at 7:08 PM

This little video has me thinking big red...

Just watched this.  That about sums it up. Captures the essence of the ride.  Actually watching this could cost me a lot of money as I want to go back more than ever and on an Africa Twin.  And gas is a problem but you can work around it.

Fresh Halibut and Alaskan Beer in Hyder on the BUS. It rained that night!

I just witnessed a Carver BMW group test ride, and I do believe the waters have muddied. I actually rode the bike he should take, '98 VFR 800!

I read somewhere the '17 Africa Twin will have an optional rear suplimental fuel tank. I still vote Big Red. 

As a side note, all three Carvers could have showed up at a BMW bike dealer in a separate M3s, but didn't. Opportunity missed...

5 hours ago, KevCarver

I just witnessed a Carver BMW group test ride, and I do believe the waters have muddied. I actually rode the bike he should take, '98 VFR 800!

I read somewhere the '17 Africa Twin will have an optional rear suplimental fuel tank. I still vote Big Red. 

As a side note, all three Carvers could have showed up at a BMW bike dealer in a separate M3s, but didn't. Opportunity missed...

Muddied indeed. On paper the S1000XR BMW was what I was looking for, a little better Multistrada is what I saw it as with excellent cruise control and very highly rated BMW Dynamic ESA, a veritable alphabet soup of helpful rider aids. with 160 hp and in a recent head to head shoot out against the Multi it spanked it.

On paper.   Under my arse it felt by far the most flickable of the 3 BMWs we took out today as well as the 2 VFRs (5g and 6g) and the ST1300 that we headed over to the BMW dealership on.  The 17" front wheel made it seem the most sporty (which is what I was looking for - a tall sport bike good ergos and ) and the 150+ hp at the wheel allowed for 2nd and 3rd gear power wheelies over the undulations in the road that the dealer had us follow them around.  This sporty, flickable feeling made me want to ride it more like a tall sport bike and use proper body positioning. The S1000XR does not want you to do this though.  The seat pan is 'scooped" a bit for lack of a better term and the scoop curves as most backsides.  The problem occurs when you want to sneak a cheek off the saddle and move your center of gravity inward on a turn.  The corner of the seat does not cooperate and you get hung up or have to stand up a bit in the saddle to move out to proper body positioning.  I don't have any pretense of dragging a knee on the street on a Multi or 1000XR but it would be good to be able to get into a familiar position when the twisty bits arrive and tighter corners present themselves for carving. Although our test loop didn't include steady state cruising on a highway there was some vibrations especially in the bars between 4k and 6k rpm. 

Next up for me was the R1200 GS Adventure or Big Gertha as the salesperson called it.  I have previously mentioned that I think that bike is overkill for what I need to keep pace with (an Ultra Road Glide or whatever the correct nomenclature is for the new touring HD).  As a result I went into this test ride with a bias against the GS and more specifically the GSA as it seems to me like bringing an M1Abrams to the cabin for the fall deer hunting weekend - sure it'll get the job done but do I want to be that guy?!?! So I shifted from the S1000XR to Big Gertha and off we went.  Is the GSA heavy?  YES.  Is it possibly the best get on it and go anywhere you want bike I have ever thrown a leg over?  Also, yes.  It has gobs of torque and on our second lap of the little test course it also power wheelied over a couple of small rises in the road (perhaps Torque wheelie is more accurate).  I would need a bit of time to become familiar and proficient with everything that a pilot can alter from the saddle of a GSA but the heated grips and  comfortable seat are a treat and the Pro-gear shift assist just took a couple of unwanted upshifts before I stopped preloading my shifter foot and stopped using the clutch as well. Very comfy seat and super smooth bike. It is overkill to the max.

I was next on the standard R1200 GS with cast wheels and the smaller 5 1/2 gallon tank.  After initially thinking the 1000XR was going to 'fit" my needs and then being disappointed in the execution of the small items that I feel would be difficult to correct with aftermarket items (not sure a Sargent saddle will alleviate the corner in the butt issue) and then being head-shakingly impressed with the GS A I thought we were headed for a Goldilocks ending and the standard GS would be perfect for me - not too hot, not too cold, just right. 

It wasn't.  I prefer the large and in charge Big Gertha to the standard GS.  It felt more smooth, the optoins that are standard on the GS A can be added to a GS and I enjoy farkles as much as the next guy but the GS A package integration is right where you would expect a German product to be after 35 years of refining (defining?) the market. A bike that size shouldn't be this capable, but it is, never putting a wheel wrong or felt like I needed to get used to some shortcoming.  Only thing close to a nit to pick for me was that it has so much torque that I forgot momentarily that it is a boxer twin and bumped the rev limiter once just after climbing aboard.  I will have to adapt to a bike with a red line so low but as I left the dealer on the ST1300 I twisted its' tail up the on ramp and had to look down to see what was wrong...it felt well down on power.  Top tip, ride something slower than what you brought as your last bike before leaving the dealer.

In summary, after the BMW visit, if I select a bike from the propeller heads it will oddly enough be the bike that I LOL'ed about when the Hitler parody called it a tractor while pining for his beloved VFR.

Next stop is looking like Triumph for a ride on an Explorer.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2016-Honda-Other-/182391890476?forcerrptr=true&hash=item2a7767622c:g:0zwAAOSw2xRYSs3F&item=182391890476

9 hours ago, timmythecop

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2016-Honda-Other-/182391890476?forcerrptr=true&hash=item2a7767622c:g:0zwAAOSw2xRYSs3F&item=182391890476

Its perfect!  Everything you wanted and a VFR.  Timmy wins. Game over.

The VFR1200X has extremely intrusive traction control and has lost some 50hp in the migration from the 1200F.  If I go with a Honda it will be the Africa Twin.

The Triumph Explorer XCA is the current front runner.  Rode it today.  Compared to the BMW GS or GS A the Triumph is not a better all around bike.  I don't know when I will ever ride a better all around bike than the BMW GS.  If you want the best tool for this job then buy the GS.  Having the best tool for the job is great when we are talking about appliances or actual tools like drill press or shop vac or even a nice Vaughn hammer but I am passionate about motorcycles and the Triumph (while it seemed just "less" than a GS) seemed to be more passionate about the ride.

Objectively the only place the Triumph Explorer XCA is better than a GS would be in front end feedback/feel or general agility/flickability if you will and a standard heated seat (front and rear).  The BMW has a better feeling stock seat and would trounce the Explorer in any measured test off pavement but that sweet 1215cc Triple actually has some heart and wants to run and rev.

If you are playing a video game and the game has you riding from SC to Alaska and back the cheat code would give you a BMW GS A.  That is how Tall Carver (Stephen) described the BMW.  He said it would make the trip too easy.  Instead of taking candy from a baby he said you would be punching a 5 year old in the face and taking not just his candy but everything else.  Not cool.

Will ride a few more bikes on the list before making a decision but after the first quarter the leader is the Triumph Explorer XCA.

I did not like the front end of the GS at all, too wishy washy and with blustery side winds it was all over the place.

The Explorer is much more solid and feels less of a whale.

Off road and on road, amongst my well travelled and avid bike riding buddies, those who ride the GS are soft in the middle in all aspects of life and not as capable as riders, those who swear by both the 1050 and the 1215 triples are much more hardcore, passionate, eat-drink-sleep, extremely capable demanding riders. They love their Triumphs and do insane amounts of miles on them. The others complain when there are stretches of gravel with potholes.

The GS has come to symbolize poser almost as much as a Harley. It is a nice mike though.

Lets fit an 8th Gen axle to a 5th (or 6th) Gen and mount up a Crosstourer 1200 rear spoked wheel! Find something for the front with a bit of extra travel and wire wheel. Then mount some flat bars in place of clipons.

5 hours ago, KevCarver

Lets fit an 8th Gen axle to a 5th (or 6th) Gen and mount up a Crosstourer 1200 rear spoked wheel! Find something for the front with a bit of extra travel and wire wheel. Then mount some flat bars in place of clipons.

Ok, let's workshop it and see what we think will fit.  I like the idea of that smaller rear wheel from the 1200X with the 150 tire.

Not sure how much more travel we can get in the rear of a 5/6g but you almost have me convinced.  What long travel ADV style bike has 41 or 43 mm RSU forks?

16 hours ago, CornerCarver

I like the idea of that smaller rear wheel from the 1200X with the 150 tire.

Oh! I wasn't even paying attention to that. There was talk of the standard VFR1200 tire being too wide to fit an 800 swinger, so that solves one issue.

A quick Googling reveals the WeeStrom forks are 43mm uppers with 150mm (5.9") of travel. Only preload adjustable, but I'm sure someone has changed that by now. I'm seeing 4.25" of travel on the 6th Gen.

Front wheel is 19" and tubeless, with 310mm rotors.

CornerCarver, 12/24/2016 at 10:10 PM

Ok, let's workshop it and see what we think will fit.  I like the idea of that smaller rear wheel from the 1200X with the 150 tire.

Not sure how much more travel we can get in the rear of a 5/6g but you almost have me convinced.  What long travel ADV style bike has 41 or 43 mm RSU forks?

I like where this is heading. 

CornerCarver, ‎12‎/‎23‎/‎2016 at 8:29 PM

The VFR1200X has extremely intrusive traction control and has lost some 50hp in the migration from the 1200F.  If I go with a Honda it will be the Africa Twin.

The Triumph Explorer XCA is the current front runner.  Rode it today.  Compared to the BMW GS or GS A the Triumph is not a better all around bike.  I don't know when I will ever ride a better all around bike than the BMW GS.  If you want the best tool for this job then buy the GS.  Having the best tool for the job is great when we are talking about appliances or actual tools like drill press or shop vac or even a nice Vaughn hammer but I am passionate about motorcycles and the Triumph (while it seemed just "less" than a GS) seemed to be more passionate about the ride.

Objectively the only place the Triumph Explorer XCA is better than a GS would be in front end feedback/feel or general agility/flickability if you will and a standard heated seat (front and rear).  The BMW has a better feeling stock seat and would trounce the Explorer in any measured test off pavement but that sweet 1215cc Triple actually has some heart and wants to run and rev.

If you are playing a video game and the game has you riding from SC to Alaska and back the cheat code would give you a BMW GS A.  That is how Tall Carver (Stephen) described the BMW.  He said it would make the trip too easy.  Instead of taking candy from a baby he said you would be punching a 5 year old in the face and taking not just his candy but everything else.  Not cool.

Will ride a few more bikes on the list before making a decision but after the first quarter the leader is the Triumph Explorer XCA.

Did you ride the new 2017 improved model of the XCA with electric windshield? 

I have ridden a few of the older variant and it does have some punch.  In terms of Alcan travel it should have enough suspension travel.  This is important as I even bent a KLR rear wheel on a pothole on the ALCAN.  God only knows what would have happened to my VFR or Wing in that scenario.  Wire wheels tend to be more rugged.  I felt the Explorer was a bit top heavy and you probably will have to carry emergency gas. 

There is lots to be said of the GSA for travel up north as it has a huge gas tank plus a large OEM pannier kit and many aftermarket bag options.  Having a tanker along will give you some backup if your Harley relative opts not to carry emergency gas.  Comfort will be very important on a trip like this so do not discount that.  The GSA will be a good stablemate for the Harley whatever and you should be able to cruise at comparable highway speeds in the USA. As I remember road conditions limit speeds up North not the bike.  The BMW was one of most popular bikes up in Alaska. My experience with the GS riders up there was very positive as one of them ran down our low rent KLRs to hand deliver some used/laundry "undergarments" which had fallen off the bike. They knew it was us since there were no brand names on the gear!

Like the GSA, Triumph has lots of amenities standard which is good as well.  Indeed it looks like the Triumph is starting to creep up in price too when the options add up.  The GSA costs a bunch but if money is not a major consideration the BMW still seems a good North to Alaska option.  Not sure what the Triumph has these days for factory bag options but storage capacity would be another important consideration.  I forgot are you planning to camp along the way?  Not sure if the 2017 still has "floating" bags mounts or more rugged fixed case options?

What is your next bike test?

Definately the 2017 Triumph XCA as in addition to the cool new electric windscreen you get front and rear seat heaters and brembo brakes in place of the Triumph branded units on the 2015. The drawback is that the Triumph is within $3,500 of the full zoot  GS A but the BMW price does not include bags and Trumpet price included Motech 45 liter bags and mounts.

I know the BMW would be ubiquitous in Alaska and that is part of the reason for wanting to do it on something different.

Next to test are Africa Twin and VFR1200X to confirm that the 1200X has traction control that wants to kill you and has lost almost 1/3 of the 1200F HP.

I am almost committed to an odd build but don't want to let the cat out of the bag yet. Let's just say that my shop foreman really wants me to do it on a Honda and more specifically a VFR.

Quote

In My Garage::13 V4 Hondas

And that's a conservative number! So why give up on it now?

I really like the Africa Twin idea, but it's tube tires are a let down. Even though it's not a V anything, it is half of my Civic engine!

Now that you're missing your extra test riders, I'm happy to ride the VFR1200X and AT with you, but as noted the reviews on the 1200X aren't great.

Seems like the 800X would be a nice ride, but lacks wire wheels. Apparently that's good in off road conditions. Oh, and you can't get one here. Thus the only clear solution I can see...!

And let's face it, the only real design parameter is to (at the very least) match a giant Harley tourer. It's design parameter appears to be Kansas...

So you can't buy an 800x here but you can build one. Is it not mostly a parts bin special?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

8 hours ago, Sweeper

So you can't buy an 800x here but you can build one. Is it not mostly a parts bin special?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

This makes the most sense of any of the recommendations.  The only problem will be getting it done before the trip, and as I recall there are already a number of unfinished projects hanging in the balance.  Even if it is completed just before the trip, the idea of taking an untested Frankenviffer to Alaska is tenuous at the least.

My 500X now ticks all of the right boxes with exception to your propensity for fast bikes.  Theoretically, it will do 114mph at redline in 6th by dropping 2 teeth off the rear sprocket and still purrs like a kitten if you stay off the limiter.  The Cogent suspension can be adjusted for anything from corner carving motard to backwoods trail climber.  Being a mini Africa Twin Swiss Army knife, swap out wheels somewhere in Washington for spoked ones with new tires that improve offroad bias (see Rally Raid), reducing pothole and tire maintenance concerns simultaneously.  For the record, it probably has better wind protection than your ST1300 (unless you have fitted hand guards).  Call up Rick at Cogent Dynamics and see what he can do for a build.  He regularly builds custom bikes designed for navigating a battlefield and ridden by men who are not at all squishy in the middle.

Really, it all seems like overkill compared to the guy who did this on a Grom, where each pothole and shrapnel loaded semi passing greeted with giggles the whole way.  Nothing compares to boy-like spirit while paradoxically knowing his cojones are far larger than every rider who assuredly passed him on a GS.  Each bike saying "look at the BMW" in distraction from the journey at hand.  No, not this guy with only a milk crate and a fanny pack.  One with the essence of riding, he absorbed the scenery at slower speeds with a nearly unwreckable bike that disappeared beneath him as if propelled through the country at 50mph on a magic bumpy carpet ride.  Recognition of every foot rather than every mile in a symphony of self-restraint.  A GS that transports the rider in pure comfort at light speed will end the trip before it has begun.  Nearly every bike is faster than a Grom and most are faster than a 500X:  but that isn't the point...

Whoever suggested the ST or VFR for the cross continent then pick up Stephen's 500 for the north and south trip was barking up the right tree!

As far as building an 800X, the engine and drivetrain would be proven VFR durable (possibly with a spare R/R!) and the forks are just making sure the bolts are tight. After verifying geometry, of course. GMD is a short drive away in North GA. 

I'm waiting for the AT review... 

I can tell you the review. It's great but has tubed tires...

1 hour ago, SEBSPEED

I'm waiting for the AT review... 

Me too! But I would buy it for future rides/tours as well. 

44 minutes ago, KevCarver

I can tell you the review. It's great but has tubed tires...

I felt the same way until I started reading that some KTM 1190R folks are putting tubes in the fronts as a bent rim does not hold air (tube does though).

My KLR rear after I cleaned the dirt off courtesy of one MF huge Alaska pothole.

[image: 19219630274_14c49588ec_z.jpg] /url]

Oh man, you're not helping... :rolleyes: :goofy:

35 minutes ago, KevCarver

Oh man, you're not helping... :rolleyes: :goofy:

Most likely I would still want tubeless but ..............you never know?  I guess the correct answer is ......IT Depends or the Perfect Bike for what? 

OK I am ready for the review now.

Tubed is always better off the bitumen...

The thot plickens

Sweeper, 12/27/2016 at 11:18 PM

So you can't buy an 800x here but you can build one. Is it not mostly a parts bin special?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It appears to be not as much a parts bin special as we initially hoped.  Still we will press on, the 1200X wheel is in route from Germany.  It does not appear that it will directly bolt to an 8G rear hub so we will call on some VFRD brothers to help fab some additional parts.  Still trying to determine how to raise the rear and fit a shock with additional travel.

Have pretty much settled on 1000 V Strom front end as the forks are the same as the 650 but have cartridge internals in place of the cheaper 650 internals. Lots of discussions on the Vstrom forum regarding fork flex and it appears that the fork tubes are pretty close together and flexy so still looking at options for the triples and possibly late model VStrom USD forks.

Stay tuned and please keep the input coming, especially if you see us about to step into something that you have already done and regretted.

007, 12/28/2016 at 7:31 AM

This makes the most sense of any of the recommendations.  The only problem will be getting it done before the trip, and as I recall there are already a number of unfinished projects hanging in the balance.  Even if it is completed just before the trip, the idea of taking an untested Frankenviffer to Alaska is tenuous at the least.

Only one of those projects you see in the shop has to be done soon (the 25th anniversary VFR) and we think we can have a running Frankenviffer to ride around here before mid-March.

http://advrider.com/index.php?threads/ohio-alaska-honduras-as-long-as-it-takes-me.362479/

Here is a link to my buddy's Istvan's trip. He was pretty much trying to do it on a low budget solo on a terrible KLR650. Some pretty good info once you get closer to the pacific NW part. It is a highly entertaining read, as he is a pretty good writer. I can always give you his contact info if you want to ask specific questions on his experience.

My takeaway from his experience is: always have extra gas cans. Don't do it on a KLR. Don't ride bicycles maintained by hippies.

Thanks for that link Yoshi!  I am going to lose most of my day reading it.

This has me thinking I really need to get a leg over on the AT this week.

A good friend of mine (who in the 70's rode a XT500 from NL to South Africa) recently traded his XT1200Z -and his GF her 1200GS) for a set of AT's, they are very very happy.

They are keen offoaders but value comfort on tarmac too.

If you have the chance, do try one!

CC are you taking an Africa Twin out in the snow this weekend?

No.  Great idea though.  And I am heading to the Clemson beating of Alabama in the morning so it will be later in the week before I get to try it out.  Running into a few issues with off set on the 1200X wheel mounting face versus 3/4/5/6/8 Gen offsets.

If we don't find a wheel solution by the end of the month we are moving in a different direction AT?).

14 hours ago, CornerCarver

 Running into a few issues with off set on the 1200X wheel mounting face versus 3/4/5/6/8 Gen offsets.

If we don't find a wheel solution by the end of the month we are moving in a different direction AT?).

It's really only a single issue, and if my idea pans out it will work beautifully.

Waiting with wild anticipation for the AT review...

CornerCarver, 1/7/2017 at 7:37 PM

  And I am heading to the Clemson beating of Alabama in the morning so it will be later in the week before I get to try it out.

Step #1 complete!

I guess I'm a minimalist:

http://advrider.com/index.php?threads/ninja-250-2-up-tx-to-argentina.675841/

My fav of all time: 

Across the Country on a Honda C70

[url=http://advrider.com/index.php?threads/831076] 250cc Sherpa thru South America and Back[/url]

http://www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles/range/coming-soon-2017/x-adv/x-adv_overview-new.html?utm_source=Honda Motorcycles & ATVs (Default)&utm_medium=social&utm_content=738147213_738147216&utm_campaign=X-ADV

"Inspired by adventure itself"

19 hours ago, 007

http://www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles/range/coming-soon-2017/x-adv/x-adv_overview-new.html?utm_source=Honda Motorcycles & ATVs (Default)&utm_medium=social&utm_content=738147213_738147216&utm_campaign=X-ADV

"Inspired by adventure itself"

Wow! That is... something. I get the feeling the left hand and foot would get bored. But I can't tell for sure. 

CC - Thought of you when I saw this in San Diego yesterday. 

Apparently riding in Alaska is not great in January!  Tires biased for long distance seems to be his choice.  So at least an Africa Twin is an option for heading South. 

Now that padding for camping (?) would not be my preference.  I opted for a cot a few years back and it has been HUGE!  I will post up if you are still looking for options here.

So based on what you have ridden so far:

1. Save money and take the ST1300 which would be great for most of the trip to get there and adequate in Alaska.  Rent a KLR up there if you want to ride really tough stretches in dirt/gravel to Artic Circle etc. That way your Uncle could rest and see the sights for a few days.  One of our problems in our 3 week trip is that we did not have time to explore a town/city for a day or so.

2. Spend the $$ and buy a GSA which would be perfect for the trip up and better than the ST for crappy roads under repair etc in Alaska.  Have to love the big tank too.  Ideal bike for loafing along with a Harley.  That bike would be superb for most conditions but would be a handful if the weather turned to crap and you were fully loaded with street focused tires in the mud.  I passed a bunch of the Big BMWs struggling on the "Top of the World" Highway in the pouring rain for example.  The pristine GSA could have a few dings though when you get back.

When I go back to Alaska I will either do a repeat of my KLR voyage or buy a CRF1000.

Wow, so many great suggestions, and an Epic trip that has been on my bucket list for over 15 years. (my original plan was to do it on the Vmax's with my cousin and pulling a trailer with fuel and supplies (I do tow a dirt bike around)

I also of course ride many bikes and if you are going new so you can write about the tip etc. I would look at amore adventure bike and with that shoot out and how you want to ride I think the KTM 1190R would be the right ticket to have fun no matter how you are riding.

Well, wonder how the bike selection panned out.

When you are sitting on a fastball and the guy on the mound flings one in towards your head that bends gently over the plate for strike three...

To review the selection criterion for the new mount was a bike that would pair nicely with the HD that my uncle was taking to Alaska. This is his trip that he has been planning for several years. So, the bike that I would have purchased for myself for such an adventure was 60/40 the Triumph Explorer 1200 over the BMW GS. I loved the Triumph test ride and it seems that the transmission issues of the of the 2014-2015 models have been resolved in the 2017 release.  Still don't get the warm fuzzies about some of the warranty issues I had read about from other Triumph owners when I consider what was ahead for this bike on this trip.  

My like affair with the big BMW is documented in this this thread on the test ride.  I think the initial vague feel from the front on turn in would be soon forgotten and the bikes reputation and capabilities are as stellar as everything you have read on it.

That being said, Tim (my uncle) last owned something other than a Harley when he sold his Triumph in 1978 (IIRC) and bought his first Harley. The outcome of my efforts to seduce him to an ST1300 were destined to fall as flat as North Korean missile test. So what's a guy to do?

I swerved back to the tried and true Honda tent and tossed an F6B in the back of the Tundra for the ride home.  The Honda dealer in Rockingham North Carolina (Sport Cycle) does a well enough job in accommodating out of town buyers.  They buy Hondas in bulk and offer great pricing.  I picked up the GL1800 F6B Deluxe for $16,498 plus TTL. List price is $21,500 or so.  We only had one SNAFU, the bike that I reserved to pick up at noon on Wednesday was not out of the crate yet when I arrived at 1212...the sales guy (Keith) had confused the dates and had me down for a pick up a week later.

We waited 3 hours for it to be assembled and stuffed in the back of the truck so we could head back to Maryville.  I had initially hoped to pick it up and ride it down to SC to Tim's house so we could leave from the same place for the trip. That wouldn't work as there are many farkles that need to be added for a trip like this.  I brought it back to Casa de Carver and starting farkling.  Here are a few pictures of the stocker and then some of the upgrades as we added them.

Pardon the mess, we just moved 3 homes into this one and the over flow is filling my garage.  For this reason I sent the bike home with my "shop foreman" for a few days to install the Heli Bars.  He refused to open the brake lines in this mess. 

Allow me to get a few more pics tomorrow to show the highway pegs, Heli bars and some others mods.

I spoke to a moderator today and we are going to make sure that this is in the correct area of the forum and I will begin posting daily trip updates during our time on the road here.  I know this is not a VFR but I call it my Honda-Davidson as it is the most Harley-esque bike that my favored brand makes and I think it pairs perfectly with Tim's new HD.

Our official departure is next Wednesday June 7 from Clemson, SC.

Stay tuned as I will give ride reports of the various farkles and gear as well as some of the stuff we will use for camping and documenting the trip.

Et sic incipit!!!   Wahey!!! :cheerleader:

Into the great wide open!!!

13 hours ago, Dutchy

Et sic incipit!!!   Wahey!!! :cheerleader:

Into the great wide open!!!

Now begins a new life unless I part with it upon return home I suppose.

Wow that's a beast.

Is that a V8 Windsor motor in that thing?

If I'd known you wanted to go that route I would have offered up the Valkyrie :).  Can't wait to see how this one turns out, and to ride it.  From your F6 bro'.  

The big flat 6 engine is a beast. 

The bike is long, no doubt, but just seems to fire forward with a turbine like thrust. I think it looks really good without the trunk.  I will post some pics tonight and a link to the daily blog that I will be updating (pinkie promise).

[image: 1200.jpg]