The Official Motorcycle Ride Tales Thread

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

Where are all the anchored riders? C'mon! Show us your two wheels! Talk up your favorite ride or rally. Share ride tales and the good, bad and ugly from your road trips.

To add your photo, click Reply and use the Grab/Upload Attachment button at the bottom of your reply page.

[SKC Eric S. Highland]

I'm not a rider or biker by any means, although I have been to Sturgis on a couple of occasions, my wife being from Rapid City, SD. I just wanted to give a plug for some Coasties I met there who were part of a bike club. Don't know how many were Chiefs but they did have some very nice Harleys.

Maybe someday.. but I'll never be a true biker.. I'll be one of those posers that loads his bike into a covered trailer and drives it to the rally in comfort. ~shrugs~ sorry guys but at least I'm honest.

v/r

[DCCS Brett Wickett]

Well let's see. I figure anytime I get on my bike it is a good adventure. and everytime I make it home unscathed it is a successfull mission...with that, I have a 2003 GL1800 " Goldwing" I try and take a two week trip every summer and go somewhere. Last summer I left Iowa and went to OK, AR for a few days, then headed to N. Georgia and TN. just rode around the mountains for 6 days then came back to Iowa. Was gone 2 weeks, did 4600 miles. This summer will be xfering, so probably won't make a long trip. But next summer hoping to go to Glacier National Park. If not there, then maybe back to the Smokey Mtns. Have been riding since I was 10, this is my second Wing. Ya gotta love a "couch rocket" for touring. It is not uncommon though for my wife and I to leave on a Saturday morning and just ride, no map, no direction. Just go. Then stop for the night somewhere, read the map, see where we are and figure out how to get back home. Figure if it took a day to get there it will take another to get home. You can see some cool stuff in little towns across america. For all you riders, "Ride and ride often, but always keep the round rubber on the road. Be safe.

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

He is my bikes. Hope some one can appreciate them.

[PACS Steve Carleton]

Since the weather is warmer this weekend, I'll wash/wax the bike before posting a picture -- But as my friend says, if it's clean, you are not riding.

[MKC Tony Balcer]

04FLHR Road King
I’ve also attached a copy of an article that I wrote for my HOG Chapter a couple of months after I got the bike…

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b67/RizzosOldMan/DSC00981.jpg


__________________________________________________ ______
Surviving Turkey Run
(The birth of The RoadKills)
Tony Balcer
Last Month I was coming home from showing
off my new scoot to my bro in Wiscasset and decided to
go the back way. It's a nice little run down through
Litchfield and takes you right down the Pond Road next
to the Cobbossee. Besides, the 27 is pretty boring this
time of year.
It was a beautiful sunny day, but was a little
cool, so I had the windshield on the bike, which later I
would be very grateful for. Anyhow, once I hit the Pond
Road I was just tooling along at about 45 or 50. I was
coming down the hill near Loon Point when I noticed a
Thanksgiving sized tom turkey standing along side the
road. All of a sudden, his mate, which I had not seen
initially, bolted across the road. In the fraction of a
second it took me to think, "Oh no! He's going to follow
her!", he was on the road directly in front of me. I could
not go around him as there was oncoming traffic. I had
to accept I was going to hit this monstrous bird and all I
could think about was something I learned in the rider's
safety course I took a few of years ago. "Don't slam on
the brakes or try to make any radical maneuvers around
it." This turned out to be good advice as I was able to
maintain control of the bike during this whole ordeal. I
just rolled off the throttle and ducked down behind the
windshield as low as I could and death gripped the
handlebars.
At the same time, the bird realized I was about
to run his turkey butt over and decided to take flight. I
think in hindsight he may have realized that was a bad
idea. Bam! He nailed the right side of the windshield
right where the support frame is. It must have been
quite a sight as blood and turkey feathers were
everywhere. I felt like a NASCAR driver emerging from
the smoke during a big crash! He went butt over tea
kettle right over the top of me and off the left side of the
road. I looked in my mirror and didn't see any traffic
behind me, so I slowed down, turned around and
parked on a logging trail just off the road. I quickly
inspected the bike for damage, then patted myself
down. "Ok, bikes cool, I'm cool.”
“Now, where's that damn bird?" After all, I'm on
a bagger and that sucker would fit nicely in one of them.
Turkey... Yum... But unfortunately, he was nowhere to
be found. I combed the woods for over a half an hour.
That's some tough bird! I decided to walk around and
collect all the turkey feathers I could find, I had about
two handfuls. For what ever morbid reason, I thought it
would make a cool souvenir.
This brings me to the birth of The RoadKills.
That night I was telling my little anecdote to a longtime
friend and Harley enthusiast named Dean, and I came
to find out he had many similar stories. The same when
I told a couple of fellow AHOG members. I thought this
was kind of cool in some sick and twisted way, so my
bro Dean and I decided to form this club called "The
RoadKills". The guidelines were very simple. First kill,
get a "RoadKill" patch with a gold star. Every
subsequent kill, get another gold star. Kills only count
for the HD you are on now. Sell the bike, start over by
removing all gold stars. If you own more than one bike,
first... Lucky you... Second, You count them as one
bike. Of course it is inevitable that you will have a
"Close Call". Well, "Close Calls" only count if you mess
your pants or survive a near death experience. I had a
guy in AZ make me up some patches and we were off
and running. Or should I say off and hunting.
I guess the moral to the story is to "ride safe" as
we always tell each other. As we all know, sometimes
the road is unfriendly to people on 2 wheels. It's
important to stay alert and not panic when things go
south. The other factor is that you may be doing every
thing right and by circumstance, find yourself in a less
than desirable situation. This is why I am a solid
advocate of taking a motorcycle safety course. The
riding skills that I learned have helped me out of many
challenging situations. Well worth the money and the
life saved may be your own.
Ride Safe.

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

Looks like serious comfort, Brett! I followed a guy through Deals Gap who was on a bright yellow Wing. He smoked a few squids, too. Pretty amazing stuff.

Tony,
So how many kills do you have logged???

I've been on a BMW 1200GS the last year and half. Nice ride and quick off the mark when I need her to be. I put the break in miles on in VA and rode VA to southern CA last year as part of a PCS. No clocks, no email, no agenda and no interstates - all secondary highways and country roads for 3 weeks. I'm anxious to do it again when this tour is done.

A few pics from the trip.... Utah and central CA were sweet...

[MKC Tony Balcer]

Tony,
So how many kills do you have logged???

Master Chief,
6
1- Turkey
1- Grouse
2- Grey squirrels
2- Red squirrels
Almost clipped the neighbor's cat yesterday! That wouldn't have been good!
My bro cut a deer in half last year. Got banged up and totalled his full dresser. My other bro took a sparrow in the face while he was riding out west. Had to ride 40 miles to get 6 stitches in his face. Said it sucked because he could only see out of one eye, the other was filled with blood.

[DCCS Brett Wickett]

Yea MC, the wing is pretty comfy. And I had ridden the gap, pretty amazing road. People think the wing is a big slow cumbersome bike......LOL, it is actually pretty friggen quick, and handles more like a sport bike than a full dress highway cruiser. Not much out there that will take it for quickness except for the rockets and the sport cruisers. Your pics look like you had a good time. I love those kind of trips. Take care and ride safe.
Brett

[MSTC M McElney]

Eric, I like your honesty. I rode from Seattle to the "Sturgis Trailer Rally" this last year and had a great trip. Good weather most of time, some great scenery in the Black Hills and best of all no accidents in our party. Unfortunately 3 riders were killed when a porta potty came off the back of a truck by Mount Rushmore, we went by about an hour later and it didn't look good. We had few minor bike issues but that just adds to the fun. Is anyone heading to the Laughlin River Run this year in NV?

[BMCM Deane Smith]

I don't own a bike, but have ridden with several friends of mine...when they loan me a bike! One of the greatest things that I have done in the Cg was when I reenlisted my EPO up above the Columbia River after riding bikes all morning. I convinced the AIRSTA to stop by and we took pictures from the helo and from the mountain. We did a morale raffle to see who would get to ride in the helo and take pictures. Remember, the PERSMAN states that commands should attempt to fulfill members requests for reenlistment. I'm glad he asked or I would have never been able to share in this experience.

The picture doesn't do justice to the moment!

[MKC William Brown]

I'm glad to see this thread. If there's one thing I am passionate about, it's my bike. I love to ride. Even a trip to the grocery store is more fun on my bike. I attached a picture of my last real fun ride back in 2004. I took my son to the mountians in Virginia. At night we camped at a local camp ground in the Shenandouh Valley and by day rode Skyline Drive. That was my first real adventure on my bike. Before then, I would just take short day trips around town with other friends. I'm looking forward another ride this summer. I can't wait for the warm weather. This Long Island weather is really starting to get to me. :)

Bill

[MKC Tony Balcer]

Well, I couldn't help myself yesterday. I saw this one and just had to have it. So I traded the RoadKing in on it. 06 FLHXI Street Glide. It's Black Pearl, but to me it looks more like a gunmetal grey. It changes color in the sun from black to grey. Anyway, guess I'm just a big sucker for Big Harley's. This is my 3rd HD. This is the shot off the web site, but I'll post some more when I get the chance.
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b67/RizzosOldMan/FLHX.jpg

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

My new black beauty.

2006 Kawasaki ZX-14 Ninja

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

Nice rides!

After getting back into riding a couple/few years ago, I learned BMW riders are usually mistaken as "pretentious" or "aloof" or something... whatever. It gets old. Rather than waste energy fighting a narrow minded stereotype, I thought it best to just drive it home with a laugh.

Meet my wife and little one rendering a BMW riders salute...

[BMCS Bill Gheen]

My 2000 FXDWG (no that is not a leak under it). Just got back from Myrtle Beach Bike Week.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h176/Sea_Worthy/BillsHOG.jpg

[LT Arthur Nelson (MKC) (Ret)]

MC Stevenson, we know your photo is in fun, but I don't know if I would post a picture of "my little one" flipping the bird...

Chief Gheen, don't lie; we all know about Harley's and oil leaks! I had a 94' Harley and never changed the oil, just the filter!

[BMCS Bill Gheen]

LT,

So yours was a 94, it tells me your not familliar with the new twin cam. Trust me, it dosen't leak ;)

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

MC Stevenson, we know your photo is in fun, but I don't know if I would post a picture of "my little one" flipping the bird...
Its pretty nice having a 10 year old who understands what it means to be facetious; to mock a senseless stereotype. If viewers don't get that (especially after this post), I might be inclined to refer them to a work life counselor.

[LT Arthur Nelson (MKC) (Ret)]

Yea... introduce to me any CG work life counselor telling me it's "ok" to post a 10 year old daughter flipping the bird.
And aren't you one of the monitors, or "higher beings" of this sight?

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

LT,
I have no interest in using this public venue to address your personal judgments and I will not use it to perpetuate your angst/drama. However, I will make the time to hold an adult conversation.

310.732.2002
562.264.0068

I look forward to your call.

[LT Arthur Nelson (MKC) (Ret)]

Master Chief,
My apologies and I mean in no way any disrepect, flair nor drama to you and most importantly your family.
I was only expresing my opinion as you have yours... and isn't that what this site [in part] is suppose to be about; expressing one's opinoins and views?

[BMCM Stuart S. Slesh]

I don't see what the issue is. It's a gesture. It only has the weight that you allow it to have. In the biker world, when someone is smiling when they give it to you, it's the same as a wave. I'm also one of the monitors of the site, and I don't see a problem with it. I also know alot of work life counselors who would see a picture of a wife and mother, spending time with her daughter, in a picture taken by a father and husband. I look at the picture and see a family sending time together sharing mutual interests. I guess I'm a glass is half full kinda guy.

[FSC Jayare Parker (Ret)]

I know I would be ticked off even hearing about any of my kids using the finger and I definitly would never show a picture like that around and if one ever existed I would tear it up. My kids are older than that and it would be hard for me not to want to break their finger off to give them something to think about what that finger is and isn't for. (I really wouldn't break their finger but you know what I mean) :rolleyes:

Do I think 10 years old is old enough to flip someone the bird? Heck no. :confused:

Before anyone asks, no I'm not one of "those church people" or "one of those bible thumpers" it's just how I see it, and if anyone out there is a very religous person I don't mean any disrespect to you.

Do what you will with any of your pictures, it's just my 98 cents short of a dollar. :D


Jayare

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

Points too often get missed here when we rush to throw down opinions. Targeted, personal judgments don't work. Honest opinions do. Sometimes its a fine line.

I'm proud my 10 year old has the brain capacity to understand that flipping the bird is wrong, but doing it once to help me drive home how pathetic the stereotype is (the BMW riders salute) shows a pretty broad perspective on life not usually found in a kid that age.

Would she do it again? Of course not. That's the point.

[PACS Steve Carleton]

Let's take a look at the "bird" photo from a different perspective.

I personally do nothave a problem with it, however, this board advertises itself as a Coast Guard Chief's Forum. The content and opinions contained herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Commandant....

The fact that Master Chief is clearly identified as a Coast Guard Master Chief, and this is an open forum and we want people to read what is here, what message does it send to people outside of the Coast Guard? What about the junior personnel in his Chain of Command?

We need to remember, that we as Chiefs are representing the Coast Guard 24/7 and that includes when we post here.

Just keep that in mind when we post here.

[BMCS Burt Ford]

Can I weigh in? I dont have a motorcycle but I do have a bicycle but no cool pics like Deane.

Does anyone think thier kid does not know what the finger is at 10? If you think they dont, you need help. They all do, usually earlier than that. I think its funny. I have seen BMW riders doing that and the first time one was behind me in Maryland and one comming towards us did that I about flipped. But I thought it was to me. Then I realized it was not and got a kick out of it.

Now I am off to look at my bike, might need an oil change!

[BMCS Jim Madsen]

In MY OPINION... Everyone needs to take a deep breath and relax. This is a great site for sharing professional opinions. The topic of this particular thread involves personal recreation. Comments on a persons parenting skills or family values are not appropriate in any thread in this venue. I don't personally know MSTCM Stevenson, but it looks to me like he and his wife have a good relationship with their daughter. That in itself is a good thing. While I may find the picture itself inappropriate at a glance, at least there is some commentary that explains the reason for it. I don't understand much about "ART" either, but when someone tells me what it means, at least then it makes sense. If you choose to let it offend you, don't look at it.

[MSTC M McElney]

Just a thought, but maybe we should lock our kids up in boxes like Veal to ensure they have absolutely no social awareness. When my kid gets to 10 years old, if flipping the bird on a family weekend (and only for a picture) is a big concern I will consider myself pretty lucky.

Marc

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

What about the junior personnel in his Chain of Command?

Few visit the site largely because they think it's too serious and uptight. Otherwise, feedback has been along the lines of "oh... good one!" or "too funny!"

They understand protocols, but they are also realists. I consider myself lucky in that regard. Great crew.

[BMCS Dennis Endicott (Ret)]

Interesting turn this thread took.

It does drive home the point that although we are all Chiefs, we certainly didn't get cut from the same bolt of fabric.

I'd like to point out that in an officer's forum (if there ever was such a thing), 1)that picture wouldn't have been posted, 2)if it had been posted, it would have been pulled immediately, and 3)the officer posting it would have probably been given some disturbing career alternatives.

Good for us that we can discuss and argue over it. I bet it has sparked some debates with the lurkers (both officer and junior enlisted).

[ETCM Joseph Harold]

I thought it was her index finger. :)

Lighten up everyone.

[BMCS Bill Gheen]

Just had to do it :)

[DCCS Brett Wickett]

Wow, and to think I thought this was going to be a great thread because it showed the different bikes people like to ride. But now......I wonder how many that have posted parenting comments even ride at all? Lets see, Beemers have been flipping the bird for a wave as long as I can remember, Harley's have been leaking oil for as long as I remember, Honda's, Susuki's, Yamaha's, Kawasaki's have been Jap bikes as long as I remember. (Was not making a racial comment at all, so don't go there) For the most part, everyone that rides, and has a passion for riding gives all other riders a hard time about the bike they ride in one form or another. But when it comes down to it we all know, regardless of what we ride, that a biker is a biker and two wheels is all that counts. This was a thread about bikes, and riders, and what we as riders like to ride. It is not a thread on parenting. When I grew up if I said something SUCKS I had better be talking about the Hoover. Times have changed. Lighten up, and if you don't know what something means, try asking before you go off on someone. Chances are it has a simple meaning. Now for all you bike riders, GET OUT THERE AND RIDE. For everyone else........well go fishing or something, be proud of your kids for who they are, and try your damnest to include them in your passion. OK, I'm finnished. You guys are great...........LOL don't take life so serious. Hey I gotta get the Big Bird out now and go flip off a Beemer, providing I don't hit an oil spot from a Harley and slid off the road while I am trying to drink my coffee and adjust the stereo on my Goldwing. :D

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

Hey I gotta get the Big Bird out now and go flip off a Beemer, providing I don't hit an oil spot from a Harley and slid off the road while I am trying to drink my coffee and adjust the stereo on my Goldwing. :D

Amen - let's ride, you bastages.
I'll be back later to use you guys for therapy. Specifically: I'll need at least 10 reasons for not dropping 20K on one of these (http://motorcycleinfo.calsci.com/R1200GSHP2.html). :cool:

[BMCM Stuart S. Slesh]

Steve, you lost me on the "what do our junior enlisted think....."

I get that I'm in the CG 24/7, but my family has never been in it. My son doesn't have a regulation haircut. My wife's hair goes below the bottom edge of her collar, and she hasn't worn a uniform since she left catholic school. How I raise my children is my concern and mine alone. If local authorities are called in it could involve the CG. But what kind of thought police are going to respond to someone flipping the bird ? We're not talking child abuse here. We showing that some people have different moral standards than others.

The thread is in CPO after hours. I think that the thread shows that some people are still human. I haven't seen one person holding up their defensive driving certificate and reminding people to drive safe.

I'd like to state for the record, for anyone reading this, that I have never drank underage, smoked without parental consent, used foul language, taken something that didn't belong to me, violated any motor laws, played my music too loud, or lied, fibbed, or otherwise shaded the truth.....though that might not be entirely accurate.

[LT Arthur Nelson (MKC) (Ret)]

This thread once again proves histroy on this site. Most discussions go off on tangents not related to the original post.
Get it back to the motorcycle riding forum it is. Especially with summer vacations & PCS'ing coming soon, I am sure there will be good road-trips and adventures to tell us about. BTW I am envious since I sold my last bike 4 years ago and miss it...

[PACS Steve Carleton]

Stu,

My point was -- This is a CG related site, we use our names, people draw conclusions from what they see and read and connect to people's names and rank.

When your name is attached to something that could in some people's eyes be considered offensive, then it looks to some people like CG Chiefs don't care about what message they send by what they post.

Think about it, what if I worked at Harley-Davidson, but rode a Honda to work, what message do you think that sends, people draw conclusions based on what the see.

I'll start a new thread and we can continue this argument there.

Let's get back to talking bikes --

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Questions about "excessively dangerous activities"?

I am an avid street and offroad/ Motocross racer. I have had numerous injuries over the years while on active duty. The worse being a compound fracture of the tibia and fibula about 10 years ago. After spending 18 months on light and getting a medical board i was recommended for retention and was fit for full duty. This year i have been competatively racing the local hare scramble series which is just an off road race through the tree's. I am a good fast racer who always nothing but the best of everything thing when it comes to safety gear. I am currently in second place in the B Open (intermediate) class points. This year i have had plenty of bumps, bruises, scrapes etc. Not to mention a badly bruised foot and one broken toe. I have only missed a couple of hours of work to have my toe xrayed or to go the the pharmacy for some motrine. Untill this week, while racing i broke my collar bone so i had to miss a one week ATON patrol (small river tender) while i heal up. Because of the sport i love i have always heard rumor about the command being able to stop me from competative racing. Is there any true writen instruction that i can refere to? Its a bummer that this is the only unschedule time off i have asked for in years and i may have to quite racing.

thanks your input is appreciated
Ben

[BMCS Bill Gheen]

Ben,

I am not aware of any instruction regarding your cause, however it doesn't mean one doesn't exit, even if within your own command.

I do know that the Command can do things, looking out for their (the CG's) best interests.

[BMCS Dave Considine]

Amen - let's ride, you bastages.
I'll be back later to use you guys for therapy. Specifically: I'll need at least 10 reasons for not dropping 20K on one of these (http://motorcycleinfo.calsci.com/R1200GSHP2.html). :cool:


Master Chief

When Master Chief (MST no less) Tim White retired a few years ago his wife bought him a cherry red 1958(?) corvette. He's a civilian planner for Sector Boston now. Give him a call and have his wife drop the "retirement gift" hint to your family and friends. Might get you that BMW. I remind my wife all the time to start saving.

Dave

[BMCS Dave Considine]

Right now this is all I can afford

[BMCS Jim Madsen]

I got this in an e-mail and just had to share.

[MECS Scott Pugh]

Is that Brittany Spears and her hubby on their motorcycle?

[BMCM Stuart S. Slesh]

Well at least the parents care enough to wear helmets.

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

Master Chief

When Master Chief (MST no less) Tim White retired a few years ago his wife bought him a cherry red 1958(?) corvette. He's a civilian planner for Sector Boston now. Give him a call and have his wife drop the "retirement gift" hint to your family and friends. Might get you that BMW. I remind my wife all the time to start saving.

Dave

Thanks Dave. Will do. I never met Tim, but know of his Boston antics and the smooth transition he made to the civilian sector. He greased that one well!

I've been holding onto this too long:

Before the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, the French, anticipating victory over the English, proposed to cut off the middle finger of all captured English soldiers. Without the middle finger it would be impossible to draw the renowned English longbow and therefore they would be incapable of fighting in the future. This famous English longbow was made of the native English Yew tree, and the act of drawing the longbow was known as "plucking the yew" (or "pluck yew").

Much to the bewilderment of the French, the English won a major upset and began mocking the French by waving their middle fingers at the defeated French, saying, "See, we can still pluck yew!" Since 'pluck yew' is rather difficult to say, the difficult consonant cluster at the beginning has gradually changed to a labiodentals fricative "F," and thus the words often used in conjunction with the one-finger-salute!

It is also because of the pheasant feathers on the arrows used with the longbow that the symbolic gesture is known as "giving the bird."

;)

[PACS Steve Carleton]

Do you think that could qualify as an infringement of Honda's concept of an airbag on the Gold Wing?

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Can any one beat this 1/8th mile pass?

6.72 SECONDS
112 MPH


Got to love the 14.
How about you V-twin riders?

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Thought i would get the topic back on track.

You guys are probably to old for this.

[BMC Scott Coder]

No pictures that I can post right now, but My 2003 Nighttrain will just about go head to head with that ZX-14 (1/4mile, not top end)

103" Stroked motor w/ branch flow metric heads
585G S&S gear drive cams
Branch dome top pistons
Power commander intake management
S&S EFI Manifold
Vance and Hines 2-1 exhaust

2 years ago at infinion raceway I made a 1/4 mile pass at 10.76 @ 143MPH

Yeah, I know yours will do it off the showroom floor, but I'm down 2 cyclinders. :eek:

Nothing like spending 20k on a bike then an additional $5800 in the motor. I am not my wife's biggest fan.

I'll post a picture when I get a chance.

Scott

[MKC Harold Whitt]

Here is a Vtwin for ya ,,,
944cc's of some of the most beautiful race inspired italian engineering ever to intake, compress, ignite and exhaust, inorder to turn reciprocating mass into rotary motion , motion that evokes EMOTION ...............



Loud Clutches Save Lives

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Scott,
I know you V-twin (non-duc's) are at a disadvantage, thats why they you guys get your own class, such as the WNBA or WPGA, just kidding you politicaly correct nuts. I havent made a 1/4 mile pass yet, but will the suspension tied down and a few other no cost mods the 14 is turning 160 ish. Maybe anothe 5k and you can catch us. We wont even mention 200+ miles an hour with the speed limiter removed.

Scott just good Harley vs. sport bike talk, dont take me serious.
Love then to.

Ben

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Love the DUC.
Thats cant be just a v-twin, even though it is. Maybe the Harley guys can catch up some day. Even with their high horsepower thumper motors i think they are still under 130 hp at the crank.
I looked at the Aprilla before i got the 14. Awesome Euro bikes. Some day one of each.

Ben

[BMCS Jim Madsen]

I just want to know how someone can ride something like that and not bust their balls every time they hit a bump? I don't have a bike (yet) but have been looking at cruisers. At my age, I don't feel the need for speed. I do however, need to be comfortable for a longer ride. One without white knuckles.

[PACS Steve Carleton]

Show up in force tomorrow! July 19, 2006 is Ride Your Motorcycle to Work Day!

http://www.ridetowork.org/pages.php?pageid=12

[BMC Scott Coder]

Ben,

Good stuff, I will continue to violate rice burning 600's-1000's light to light. Maybe the Edelbrock Nitrous System is next on the o' girl.

I guess we all can't be lucky enough to burn middle eastern gas in a US V-Twin.

"counter ribbing" Ride on.

Scott

[OSC Donald McClain]

I'm glad to see that the this forum has gotten back to what it was intended for - those that ride!

Lets see - currently sailing one of the seven seas so no pictures available at this time.

During last inport I purchased a 2001 FLHTCU. For those of you that refuse to ride a Harley the FLHTCU is an Electra Glide Ultra Classic - fully loaded.

Since getting my bike everyday has been like - a child waiting for Christmas morning - I just can't seem to get enough of it. Is this normal? :D

Counting the days until RTHP and then the riding begins again :p

Don
Charleston, SC H.O.G
Chapter 4774

[MKC Tony Balcer]

Can any one beat this 1/8th mile pass?

6.72 SECONDS
112 MPH


Got to love the 14.
How about you V-twin riders?


Ben,
Do you know why that bike is that fast? Because you have to hurry up and get there because the thing is so damn uncomfortable to ride! I’ll take my big cruiser any day.

Scott,
I’m doing a stroker this winter. Just got my race tuner yesterday… Next… CAMS… By the FEB I should have all the parts… (little at a time and she’s not as likely to make you sleep on the couch!)

[BMC Scott Coder]

Tony,

When you order your cams, make sure you get gear drive. I bought the S&S 585G. The cams are nice and it gets rid of the only weak link in the engine, the cam chain. The cams are a little noisy but they provide a noticable differance.

You should be happy with the 103 stroker kit. Good power, nice thump and killer torque.

Scott :cool:

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Senior Chief Madsen,
Its not the position that makes the junk uncomfortable it the sudden decelarations from setting the front tire down at over 100 mph.

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Tony,
A scooter (Vespa) would be comft to, but why sacrafice performance for comfort. I guess i just dont get it yet. Must be an age thing.

Got to love the Harley vs. Sportbike conversations.

Ben

[BMCS Jeffrey Zappen]

Just got back from Laguna Seca (Monterey, CA). Saw MotoGP and the AMA races. I go every year that I'm close enough to get there in three days or less. Got to love the roads up here in Northern California!

Later,

Jeff
01 Ducati ST4

[MKC Tony Balcer]

Tony,
A scooter (Vespa) would be comft to, but why sacrafice performance for comfort. I guess i just dont get it yet. Must be an age thing.

Got to love the Harley vs. Sportbike conversations.

Ben

I hear ya. But when I ride, my avg trips are between 500-600 miles a day. It was very tough to do that on my GSXR That thing would beat the pi$$ out of you. But she would go from 0 to 130 pretty quick.
I guess you are right it must be an age thing. Just like the young bull said to the old bull. "Hey dad, lets run down the hill and get one of those cows." He said, "No son, lets walk down and get them all."

[MKC Tony Balcer]

BTW: All people on 2 wheels are my friends... HD or not. I just love bikes and I have owned a bunch. I just happen to love my FLHXI. Also if you all didn't know. Next year all HD's are going to be SPEFI and 96" vice 88". Little FYI for ya...
T

[BMC John Phillips III]

I don't drive motorcycles for personal reasons, but if I did, mine would probably look something like this:

[ETC (FT type) Ed Shank]

04 HD FXSTB (11400 miles) and an 06 FLHT (4320 miles) I used to ride and race rice rockets when I lived in NH and used to tag along with my dad on club rides. The guys used to tell me I had to ride in the back because you don't have to go fast to look good. I told them I ride in the back to pick up all the parts they lose on the way to where-ever we were going. I could open a swap meet by the time we got to our destination.

I attend Laconia every year, have done Daytona a couple times and Sturgis is on the plan for next year.

My most memorable trip would have to be riding my GSXR 750 from NH to Key West Fl. to report into the CGC Mohawk after boot camp. A huge tank bag and my sea bag strapped to the p-pad off I went. In NC my bike started acting up so I pulled over on Rt 13. A state trooper stopped to help me. He asked if he could take a spin to see if he could help me. He took off down the road and then came back past me doing about a buck thirty. He came back and said he was thought I might have something in the carbs. I took back off down the road and the problem showed up again. I asked a mechanic for a bike shop and he sent me to this house behind the gas station. It was the same trooper. He invited me in, let me call a mechanic (who diagnosed water in the gas) showed me his extensive collection of bikes, fed me dinner, gave me a ride to the store for dry gas and sent me on my way. Bikers helping bikers. I stop everytime, even if I have somewhere to go.

If anyone in the tidewater area knows of upcoming rides or wants to hook up for a ride let me know. Always looking to rack up some mileage and find some unknown hole in the wall for a beer and swapping stories.

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Tony,
It was a joke. Sorry if i offended you. It just good conversation between Harley guys and Sportbikers. I ride with anybody who wants to go out and just have a good time reguardless of what type of bike they ride.

As for the GSXR beating the new ZX-14 not a chance in the world. The Busa was the ticket, but with the release of the 14 the 1000's dont have a chance. Its on the covers of all the magazines. Zero to a million fastest bike on the planet in a straight line and for the twisties its all about the rider. If you can beat my lap times i would have fun riding with you. As for 0-130, what did you do with 4th, 5th and 6th gears.

Ben

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

ETC,
Post the topic when you go for the big ride. I have wanted to go to some of the big rides.

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Why Harley guys hate sportbikers.

www.twistedlimit.com/cbr/Twistedlimit317.wmv

Now thats funny.

[YNC Josh Braarud]

It's not about sportbikes or cruisers. It's about standards. British standards.

Here's my "new" ride. It's a 1998 Triumph Thunderbird, British Racing Green, and with an 885 cc triple. She sounds amazing.

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/9527/img0305cw8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[MKC Tony Balcer]

Tony,
It was a joke. Sorry if i offended you. It just good conversation between Harley guys and Sportbikers. I ride with anybody who wants to go out and just have a good time reguardless of what type of bike they ride.

As for the GSXR beating the new ZX-14 not a chance in the world. The Busa was the ticket, but with the release of the 14 the 1000's dont have a chance. Its on the covers of all the magazines. Zero to a million fastest bike on the planet in a straight line and for the twisties its all about the rider. If you can beat my lap times i would have fun riding with you. As for 0-130, what did you do with 4th, 5th and 6th gears.

Ben

None taken. I just love being on 2, don't matter how you do it. If I hit the megabucks I would have one for each day of the week.
I took the boat on our 3rd annual "morale ride" up through the Kang over in NH. Was about a 500 mile day. There were 3 HD's and 8 sport bikes. The guys on the sport bikes all said the same thing, their elbows and lower backs were shot at the end of the day. After I dropped them off, I rode another 120 mi to my house. I like sport bikes, but they suck for long trips. The State troopers get a little pissed if you go over 80 anyway, so what's the point of having a bike that will do 200 mi hr? The fastest I've been on my FLHX is about 115 and (that's stock 1450) My thing is I like to be very comfortable at 75 or 80, could never say that about my GSXR. Last year I rode my FLHR to my Dad's in MI about 1500 mi. It was a nice ride there, but coming home in the rain sucked. I don't see doing trips like that on a sport bike. It would just beat the hell out of me. When I get this bike paid off though, I think I'm going to look at the Buels.
I like to ride a lot. That's why I've had this bike for 4 months and just rolled 10k. Oh, BTW of that 4 months, we were u/w for a month and half.
Anyway, ride safe, no matter what you ride.

[MKC Tony Balcer]

It's not about sportbikes or cruisers. It's about standards. British standards.

Here's my "new" ride. It's a 1998 Triumph Thunderbird, British Racing Green, and with an 885 cc triple. She sounds amazing.

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/9527/img0305cw8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Josh,
One of the gals on the ship has a Triumph. Nice bike and it sound like a pissed off chain saw! Good looking bike though.

[DCCS Brett Wickett]

I'll be riding from NJ to OK in a couple weeks if anyone wants to go. Will probably have to take interstates going down just to save a little time. But intend not to hit them much on the way back. Have fun and be safe.

[ETC Chris Wagner]

I currently own a 1988 Harley FXSTC. It is Corvette Chrome Yellow with blue flames. I have it hibernating at my Dad's place in PA until my tour in PR is up next summer. I had a little mishap on a bike during my first tour in PR and figured it would be better to fight off riding withdrawal for a few years rather than picking my damaged hide out of some wacko's grill.

Once upon a time I had a YZ 490. The machine was just insane. :D When I bought it the front tire looked brand spanking new, but the rear tire was nearly bald. I did not realize why until I went for my first good hard ride. I had to practically fly her. The front tire only touched the ground when she was stopped. :eek: It had some major compression too. The arch of my right foot got bruised a few times when she kicked back while I was trying to kick her over. I did not keep the bike long. It was way too big for the riding area I had at the time. Good memories!!

[HSC Chris Fly]

Hey all,
I currently ride an '88 BMW R100RS, I haven't ridden much since I moved to San Diego last month. I'm still getting used to the traffic and my wife still freaks out when I talk about riding to work! Here is a pic of my Beemer.
Chris
http://threeflys.smugmug.com/photos/40603424-M.jpg

[HSC Chris Fly]

Nice rides!
rendering a BMW riders salute...

Master Chief,
I always thought that was the AdvRiders salute! :D Good to see someone else has the good sense to rider a beemer also! I'm down in San Diego, I might have to ride up to see you sometime. I work for the San Pedro SEHO, so I'm sure I'll be up there soon.
Chris

[BMC Scott Coder]

Las Vegas bike fest starts today. Not quite Sturgis, but it is a great time with some heavy hitters in the custom builder and racing world. I will post a few pictures of the events on here after the weekend is over.

Scott

[BMC Robert Ornelas]

Here is my mistress "Layla" 2003 FXSTD. Pictures where taken a couple of weeks ago on our trip to Wales.

[BMCS John Brady (Ret)]

Been meaning to show off my baby.... That is the boy on the back

[BMC John Phillips III]

Robert, you should send that second photo into a contest or magazine. It's very nice, professional quality.

[ETC (FT type) Ed Shank]

I finally have pics of my bikes, and figured out how to resize them to fit. Riding to Orlando for the Ordnance conference first week of December. The first one is my hot rod 04 Night Train, the second one is my old man bike 06 Electra Glide, the third one is the sportster my son and I are rebuilding for his 16th birthday (in 6 years).

[BMC Robert Ornelas]

JP3

Thanks; I sent it out to HD for their Photo Contest. We'll see what happens????

Rob

[OSC Daren James]

Here is what I like to ride on. It gets me where I need to go in a hurry. I'll save up for something a little more comfortable in a few years, maybe a Street Glide.

http://inlinethumb43.webshots.com/682/2675908960094422841S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2675908960094422841ehBcib)
If anyone is interested you should be checking out the new site,
www.coastguardriders.net
We've got patcheshttp://inlinethumb50.webshots.com/561/2790128180094422841S425x425Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2790128180094422841WuVHYs), T-shirtshttp://inlinethumb09.webshots.com/8/2483759700094422841S425x425Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2483759700094422841uqETWL),
decals and magnetshttp://inlinethumb64.webshots.com/1727/2176598620094422841S200x200Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2176598620094422841pnVshp), and soon we'll have coins.
Here is our group in Petalumahttp://inlinethumb29.webshots.com/1116/2665408680094422841S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2665408680094422841RRvyjd)

Drop me a line @ daren_james@yahoo.com for any more info, or look me up in global. If your passing through the TRACEN in Petaluma drop by OS A school.

[BMC Robert Ornelas]

Hey guys

My bike made the "centerfold" in the 2006 European Hog Tales Road Book. Don't know if it made it back in the U.S. Hog Tales.

Cheers

Rob :cool:

[MKC Benjamin Saiz]

Any St Louis riders want to educate me where i might find the sport bike scene or where i can find the best twisties?

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

WOW... A lot of nice bikes here... Perhaps some of you are down my way.. Here in Daytona it is Bike Week :D

Ride Safe!

Wray... :cool:

[HSC Chris Fly]

Any St Louis riders want to educate me where i might find the sport bike scene or where i can find the best twisties?

MKC,
Look up HSC T.J. Miles, he is there at the MLC safety office. I know he had an FZ6 when he was in Astoria, probably still does.
Chris

[BMC Robert Ornelas]

Well now that the sun is some what rolling out (out here at least) has anyone completed or have any rides planned this summer/fall? I'm looking to either head to Normandy to pay my respects or Ireland.

Cheers

Rob

[BMCS Jim Madsen]

Rob,
I might suggest the east coast route of Scotland up to Loch Ness. It is beautiful up there. Leaving Aberdeen and heading up toward Fraserburgh and over to Banff then on to Inverness. I've done it in a car many years ago but it would be great on a bike, as long as it stays dry. There are some castle ruins along the way and some beautiful, rugged coast line. The East coast is alot drier than the west.

Jim

[BMCS Dave Considine]

Well now that the sun is some what rolling out (out here at least) has anyone completed or have any rides planned this summer/fall? I'm looking to either head to Normandy to pay my respects or Ireland.

Cheers

Rob

I would recommend Ireland, like Great Britain it is perfect for motorcycles. My parents live in Galway, let me know if you go - the old man will definitely buy you a pint of the Goodness. He:D 's ex-Navy but still a good guy.;:D

[BMC Robert Ornelas]

Senior

Thanks for the offer! If I don't make it to Ireland this summer..my last hooray is a two week caravan trip around the island before I leave next year.

Cheers

Rob

[MSTC M McElney]

Sturgis is only 2 weeks away!!!!!! Anyone else headed to the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota?

Marc

[BMC Russell Miller]

I wish,one phrase, hurricane season I lucky if I can take leave and go home on the weekends

[FSC Mike Rawski]

I haven't looked through the rest of the thread yet. Any other track riders? Here I am on my newest toy, an Aprilia SXV 550 supermoto. I also have a GSXR 600 track/race bike. I don't do much street riding, Houston area drivers are pretty scary and after getting some track time the road is just plain boring.

[FSC Mike Rawski]

2 years ago at infinion raceway I made a 1/4 mile pass at 10.76 @ 143MPH

Scott

About the same time I pulled off a 10.70 at 137 mph on my gsxr750. Stock wheelbase, raised rear, stock front height.

Lots of weekends at the drag strip and decent coaching, just a couple benefits of dating who is now one of the fastest females in the country. (also now my Ex) At the the time she was pulling low 9s on a gsxr 1K, lowered and stretched 6 inches over stock.

[MKC Patrick Poponea]

Greetings all,
I just bought my first bike back in June. 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom. I am having fun riding to work when I can.
BTW, BMCS Brady, how are you? I haven't talked to you since I left Station Miami in 1999.
680

[MSTC Andrew Grow]

A few pics of my '06 KLR650 on my transfer from SSM, Michigan to Juneau. Yup, I rode it the entire way!

Badlands
http://spicymchaggis.smugmug.com/photos/169336937-L.jpg

Yellowstone
http://spicymchaggis.smugmug.com/photos/169962551-L.jpg

Icefields Parkway, Canada
http://spicymchaggis.smugmug.com/photos/170322851-L.jpg

http://spicymchaggis.smugmug.com/photos/170823354-L.jpg

[HSC Chris Fly]

Andy,
I've gotta ask, did you have a support truck? You've got no saddle bags or boxes? I bet that trip was AWESOME! One of my goals is to ride the AlCan on a bike.
Chris

I'm really liking that new BMW F800GS! :)

[MSTC Andrew Grow]

Andy,
I've gotta ask, did you have a support truck? You've got no saddle bags or boxes? I bet that trip was AWESOME! One of my goals is to ride the AlCan on a bike.
Chris

I'm really liking that new BMW F800GS! :)

Yup, my wife drove the truck behind me. Hence no luggage! She had her Yamaha TW200 on the trailer.

As for the F800GS...it looks awesome. Way out of my price league though! :(

[HSC Chris Fly]

That's the best way to make that trip, I'm sure!

[FSC Mike Rawski]

that does look like an awesome trip Andrew. I'm jealous! The seat on my aprilia motard kills me after about half an hour, your enduro has to be more comfortable than that!

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

A few pics of my '06 KLR650 on my transfer from SSM, Michigan to Juneau. Yup, I rode it the entire way!

WOW... I'm impressed... years ago I rode my 750 Suzuki "Water Buffalo" from the DC area to Corpus Christi... that was my first long ride, and I started out on a wet cold day... uck! I too had a support vehicle.. the girl I was dating from the Pentagon was following me in her Corvette. :D :D

Been through more girlfriends than motorcycles since then..

Wray... :cool:

[MSTC Andrew Grow]

Mike,

Yeah it was an awesome trip. The wife got some great video of me riding through Yellowstone, Glacier, etc.

Wray, I've had more motorcycles than girlfriends. Not sure what that says about me...:confused: :D

[ETC Pat Kaschube]

Mike,

Yeah it was an awesome trip. The wife got some great video of me riding through Yellowstone, Glacier, etc.

Wray, I've had more motorcycles than girlfriends. Not sure what that says about me...:confused: :D

Which costs more? :D

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Which costs more? ----> You need to ask?

Of course that was back in my "single days".... Tomorrow I celebrate my 20th wedding anniversary with my bride...

I didn't just settle, I was selective.

Wray... :cool:

[MSTC Andrew Grow]

Which costs more? :D

Yeah...so in case my wife reads this...the motorcycles cost more. Yeah, that's the ticket! :D

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Come on Andrew, be a man, we KNOW which costs more... 'fess up... ;)

Wray.... :cool:

[MSTC Andrew Grow]

Speaking of costing more...check out my new ride (still to be delivered - sometime in January)

2007 Ural Gear-Up. 2wd. 750cc of raw Russian power. :D I can't wait to get her up here!!! This picture isn't of my actual bike, as it's still in Russia enroute to the US of A.

[HSC Chris Fly]

Sweet! I've always loved the Urals! I thought about getting one for my first bike a few years back but read you need to be a pretty good mechanic if oyuget one of these. Not sure how true of a statement that was, but it was enought to scare me off. Again, sweet bike!
Congrats,
Chris

[BMCS John Brady (Ret)]

Greetings all,
I just bought my first bike back in June. 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Custom. I am having fun riding to work when I can.
BTW, BMCS Brady, how are you? I haven't talked to you since I left Station Miami in 1999.
680

Hey Pat,

Sorry I missed your post, being newly retired I am busier then I was on AD...... Need to get a J-O-B so I can relax a little. Hope all is well with you and congrats CHIEF. I settled here in Palm Coast so if you get this way drop me a line.

JB

[MSTC Andrew Grow]

Sweet! I've always loved the Urals! I thought about getting one for my first bike a few years back but read you need to be a pretty good mechanic if oyuget one of these. Not sure how true of a statement that was, but it was enought to scare me off. Again, sweet bike!
Congrats,
Chris

You just need to know how to do basic maintenance on them nowadays. The electronics and horn are from Ducati, the timing gears and tranny gears are made in Germany now, wiring harnesses are from Taiwan (same as US "made" harnesses), front brake is a big-azz Brembo...

If you can do simple valve adjustments (easy on an airhead) and change fluids, you can easily own and work on these bad-boys.

[FSC Mike Rawski]

my new story..

Tried motocross. Lasted ten minutes. Dislocated my shoulder. Healing well. Will go again!

[FSC Mike Rawski]

The trend continues!

Some things just can't be prepared for.

I had had a track day for Newbies (riders new to the track, not new to riding) this weekend. I was one of the instructors, showing lines, explaining why we use the lines we do, going over body position, basic stuff.

I prepped the bike the day before. Changed oil, clean and lubed chain, checked coolant, controls, brakes.....

Well, with only 750 miles on my new engine including three track days, she failed me. I had opened the throttle down the back straight to get in front of a couple students I was watching so I could pull them into the pit for a couple tips. Coming out of the next series of turns I got on the throttle and the back end spun up and the bike spit me off. It's a 550 motard, not a high power super sport. Well, back in the pits I find coolant all over the swing arm and the back of the bike.

I'm bringing the bike to the dealer this weekend for some tests to figure out whats wrong. Regardless, I think I'm going to ask them to buy the bike back.

Oh, I have a broken collar bone as a result of being thrown off the bike. Surgery to have it fixed with a plate and screws on Monday.

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

I don't have any "Tale" to tell, but, I was just wondering how many Harley riders are there here? I have a sportster, but am thinking of getting this:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b317/Stingwray/flhrc_road_king_r_classic_105th_ann.jpg

How many "Road King" riders are there in the house? How do you rate your Road King? (most I talk to love 'em) Anyone ever get down here to Daytona for Bile week, or Biketoberfest?

Wray... :cool:

[BMC Seth Tomas]

Just got back from 4 days in North Georgia riding in Suches. We rode for several days in the rain/fog, but then it cleared up Sunday morning for a final ride on the "Loop" that includes Wolf Pen Gap Road. Youtube Suches or Wolf Pen Gap Road and you will get an idea of the riding up there...best roads I've ever road. It is just slightly "lesser" than Deals Gap, but nice because it is not a crowded with bikes everywhere! Once I get pics/video downloaded from my camera, I will post.

Now its off to find new tires and peg feelers! I ground down the feelers on the Harley Night-Rod I was riding of a buddies! Unbelievable riding!

Highly recommended to anyone. T.W.O. (Two Wheels Only) is right there in Suches and is a great bike resort.

[BMC Robert Ornelas]

Wray

I'm a HOG rider...

2003 FXSTD (Softail Deuce)
2004 883 XL (Sportster)..wife's bike

Can't wait to head to Texas, so I can put more miles on mine.

59 and a wake up left out here!

Cheers

Rob

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Rob,
I really like that new 105th anniversary Road king.... Looking at that one, althoug I am going today to see a 2002 that I may keep for a while and trade in.....

I rode my 750 Suzuki from Wash DC to Corpus Christi... that was a haul.... any more I'd only do it on a big Harley... Where are you going in TX?

Wray... :cool:

[BMC Robert Ornelas]

Wray

Road King are nice; my dad had one back in the day. He also has a 98 Springer; recently stole my idea and bought an 05 Street Glide (in the color I wanted):mad:

Heading to MSST Galveston as a BOSN.

Rob

[MECM Steven Lowry]

Wray

Road King are nice; my dad had one back in the day. He also has a 98 Springer; recently stole my idea and bought an 05 Street Glide (in the color I wanted):mad:

Heading to MSST Galveston as a BOSN.

Rob


Hey Robert, I'll be heading to the MANTA in Freeport. I just picked up an 07 Street Glide. A black one(is there any other color?).

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Rob, I picked this up about a month ago.... on my first tank of gas I got 47 mpg. It is an '05.. not a bad deal for 10K.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b317/Stingwray/MyPictures107.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b317/Stingwray/MyPictures105.jpg

If you know any Rusty Wallace fans I will be selling my Sportster... It only has about 3700 miles on it..

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b317/Stingwray/Autograph.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b317/Stingwray/Rightprofile.jpg

Wray..

[BMC Seth Tomas]

Took longer than I thought to finally get the pics up from my Suches, GA bike ride back in the beginning of April. Here they are. It was too rainy and foggy most of the time (as you can see) to take pics. We stayed in a cabin about 6 miles north of Suches on Hwy 60. We ended up having a great ride with 4 of us (Fat Boy, Night Rod, Bandit 1200, SV650).

Enjoy.....I know I did!

Blind corners everywhere! I ground the feelers off the pegs during this trip on that Night Rod!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8db02b3127ccea8fcaa9a993300000016108QctmzFo0bK

T.W.O. Motorcycle Resort, Suches, GA:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8db02b3127ccea8fcab78d94900000016108QctmzFo0bK

Another stop along Hwy 60:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8db02b3127ccea8fcab6b586a00000016108QctmzFo0bK

The view from our cabin (the wx was like this all 4 days!):
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8db02b3127ccea8fcab17581600000016108QctmzFo0bK

[BMC Seth Tomas]

The cabin:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8db02b3127ccea8fcab10d92100000016108QctmzFo0bK

The sun finally broke out when we were within 2 hours of leaving!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8db02b3127ccea8fcab0ed93f00000016108QctmzFo0bK

Another pic of what ALL the roads look like up there!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b8db02b3127ccea8fcab0ad93b00000016108QctmzFo0bK

[DCCS Todd Holcomb]

Question for you motorcycle riders, I'm comteplating buying a bike but with the ever rising price of gas I am wondering what you guys are getting MPG wise? I will try to park the tahoe and use the bike for most of my commuting. I spoke to a few people over the past couple of days and what I gotten so far is the Kawasaki vulcan 900 around 50 mpg, Suzuki boulevard S-50 around 40 mpg, Kawasaki KLR (dualsport) 650 around 50 mpg and I read somewhere that Buell and H/D get the best out there but the article gave no numbers.

any input from you guys will help make my decision a little easier if I decide to move forward with a purchase.

Todd

[BMC Chris Gempp]

Honda makes a a scooter that gets 106 MPG:D

[DCCS Todd Holcomb]

and that is friggin awesome, but with a 30 mile commute just to the ferry oneway and me not being the smallest guy, somehow I don't think a scooter is going to work.

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Todd,
I think my Sportster was getting around 50 MPG, and my Softail 40-45... Most bikes you get will do well on gas. Be sure to get one you like, not just for the MPG.

One thing I really like about my Softail is the storage in the saddle bags. A bike doesn't do ya much good if you can't carry anything...I put six (6) 1.75L bottles of Captain Morgan in it a few weeknds ago... :eek:

Wray... :cool:

[ETC Pat Kaschube]

Todd,
I think my Sportster was getting around 50 MPG, and my Softail 40-45... Most bikes you get will do well on gas. Be sure to get one you like, not just for the MPG.

One thing I really like about my Softail is the storage in the saddle bags. A bike doesn't do ya much good if you can't carry anything...I put six (6) 1.75L bottles of Captain Morgan in it a few weeknds ago... :eek:

Wray... :cool:

Who knew a bike could run on Captain Morgan. :D

[HSC Chris Fly]

The BMW F650 gets around 65 mpg from what I've heard

[BMC Seth Tomas]

My '03 V-Star 1100 Classic gets close to 50 with easy cruising, but if hit the interstate and run her up much over 70 to pushing 80 it will drop to about 41-42mpg's.

I rode my buddies '07 SV650S yesterday for about a 150 mile run and was averaging just over 50mpg's....and that was with some hard riding in the upper RPM range!

As Wray said, make sure you get something that you will enjoy. Both for the looks and comfort. Comfort has a lot to do with it. I love my V-Star for all aspects of it. That SV650 I rode....I love the looks and handling, but once we hit that 150 mile mark yesterday, I was ready to quit for the day. The riding position isn't favorable for long days in the saddle.

[DCCS Todd Holcomb]

OK, after some more research, many questions to several riders around here, and a few test rides I settled on a Suzuki Boulevard C50. I got several conflicting stories about the mileage, and more than not came in around the 48-52-MPG mark. I guess the determining factor will be how I ride... I picked it up a couple of hours ago and thoroughly enjoyed the the first 44 miles I put on it. Rides good, is liquid cooled, and at this point has all the power and speed I need or require. It not to bad looking either. Thanks for all the advice and I'll spend a few days getting re-acquainted with riding and make sure I comfortable to tackle the commute. I believe, or better yet hope, I made a sound decision.

I have a windshield and hard locking saddle bags on order. I didn't get a C50T, already installed, because I don't like all the studs in the seats and back rest. I also hate chrome but will have to learn to take care of it as it seems most everything has chrome now, even if just a small amount, with the exception of the "sport cruisers" IE; ST1300, Concourse etc as well as a dual sport. They weren't comfortable enough for me to use as a daily commuter.

Again, thanks for the advice.

Todd

[ETC Rich Camara]

I just picked up this 2002 Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic with the Silverado package. I got it off E-BAY it was $4800 and only had 4000 miles on it. i've put in an after market air intake and a set of BUB Big Willey exhausts. Now I got the Harley sound for no where near the cost. I looked at Harley's but I can't believe the prices they are asking for a name.:eek: I've had about 6 other bikes over the years and with gas the way it is I decided to go with something a little more economical than my F250 diesel. I got about a 14 mile round trip commute to ELC Baltimore and I have definitely saved money. I was filling my truck about every 2 weeks for about $120. Now it costs me $15 (and that's premium) to go about 3 weeks depending on what kind of riding I do on the weekend. I feel alot better about riding now because there are so many more bikes on the rode now as opposed to 8 years ago when I had my last bike. I've already hit a couple Bike Fests this summer went to Gettysburg Bike Week and Carlisle Bike Fest. Both were about a 2 hr ride with about 9 other bikes....Good Times. Had the Ol Lady on back both times and the 1100 did a great job pulling us both through those hills of PA. Anyway this is a great thread...Keep the Chrome side up and the Rubber side down...

[OSC Chuck Owens]

Heres my scoots!! The Shovel is a 72stroked out with a jockey shift and 48 springer front end! She is a blast to ride! The other is my "Beater" 05 road glide!! I ride the Crap out of it!

[BMC Seth Tomas]

I just picked up this 2002 Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic with the Silverado package. I got it off E-BAY it was $4800 and only had 4000 miles on it. i've put in an after market air intake and a set of BUB Big Willey exhausts. Now I got the Harley sound for no where near the cost. I looked at Harley's but I can't believe the prices they are asking for a name.:eek: I've had about 6 other bikes over the years and with gas the way it is I decided to go with something a little more economical than my F250 diesel. I got about a 14 mile round trip commute to ELC Baltimore and I have definitely saved money. I was filling my truck about every 2 weeks for about $120. Now it costs me $15 (and that's premium) to go about 3 weeks depending on what kind of riding I do on the weekend. I feel alot better about riding now because there are so many more bikes on the rode now as opposed to 8 years ago when I had my last bike. I've already hit a couple Bike Fests this summer went to Gettysburg Bike Week and Carlisle Bike Fest. Both were about a 2 hr ride with about 9 other bikes....Good Times. Had the Ol Lady on back both times and the 1100 did a great job pulling us both through those hills of PA. Anyway this is a great thread...Keep the Chrome side up and the Rubber side down...

Rich,

Nice ride! I have an '03 1100 Classic that I've owned for about 4-5 years now. LOVE IT! I'm at 20k miles right now and haven't had a single problem (yet).

Aftermarket goodies include:
Memphis Fats windshield
Kuryakyn ISO Grips
Kuryakyn Hyper Charger with jet kit and K&N filter
Samson pipes
Legends forward controls
Mustang tank bib
MC Enterprises sissy bar
Yamaha luggage rack
Barons Oil Filter relocation kit with K&N oil filter (running Amsoil full synthetic)
cheapo off-brand saddle bags
wired for heated gloves and jacket

You'll love the ride!

I believe I pics posted of her higher up in this thread somewhere....

Seth

[ETC Rich Camara]

Seth,
I saw the pics of your bike while I was reading through this thread, it's sharp.. that's what promted me to submit mine, us "rice burners" gotta show some pride in our rides too..LOL. Got a question for ya...how much was the Oil Filter relocation kit you got and was it a hard install?? I can't beleive Yamaha making a routine task like replacing the oil filter so difficult. Remove the front exhaust ..come on.... I don't know what the engineer was thinking that day!! Shoot a reply when you can ....take care
Rich

[BMC Seth Tomas]

Rich,

Barons makes it for around $225 or so. I think Jardine also makes one. The Barons used standard over the counter K&N303 oil filters found at any parts store...makes it easy to get. You may need to special order the 303C (chrome) one if that is what you like. It comes with the chrome one, though.

Installation was a breeze...took maybe an hour total. Wait until you need to change the oil, though. All you do is drop the front pipe, remove stock oil filter, add oil filter cover and stainless braid oil lines, then clamp the remote filter bracket to the downtubes in front of the engine. Top off with oil, replace front pipe.....fire her up.....enjoy! Oil changes can now be done in under 10 minutes (and thats with taking the extra time to crack a cold one while the oil is draining out!).

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Are any of you planning on making it to Daytona this October for Biketoberfest?

http://www.biketoberfest.org/index.cfm

Wray... :cool:

[OSC Chuck Owens]

I will be there at least one day! All depends on the job! Where ya stayin?

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Chuck,
I live here in Ormond Beach..so I'll be staying in my house... If my other house (was my Mother's) isn't rented you and others can use it.. Last year I had a vendor from SD rent it.. he said he wants it again, but.... we'll see.

Wray.. :cool:

[OSC Chuck Owens]

Wray!! Appreciate the invite and offer! But I got the best spot in da area and it is FREE!! keep in touch will try to meet up during the craziness of that week

Chuck:p

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Chuck, where is that? I live in Ormond Beach... My subdivision is "The Trails".. You can google it... It is right off SR 40.

Wray... :cool:

[DCCS Todd Holcomb]

I've installed a windshield, locking saddle bags, and am trying out some lowers I've fabbed to get rid of the head buffeting (I've seen it called on some forums). I think I made them a little big but will run with them a few days to see how they work out. So far so good, I'm getting between 50-53 MPG and once I get a final design for my lowers hammered out I'll start my fabrication of a driver backrest and a tag holder with the cross axe-hammer and Anchor with a star.

I am a little PO'd I bought a first gear Kilimanjaro black jacket but one of the seams started fraying and they wll replace it but I'm being told a black one can't be found and the 09's are gray and black and if I want to go with an 08 I only have bright yellow or red. So I may get my money back and buy one online. I'm also being told there is a wait for the 09's. The dealership I went with has a great reputation as far as I've been told and I have had nothing but great servise but the jacket thing sux.

Hope everyone has a safe and fun holiday weekend.



Todd

[DCCS Brett Wickett]

Hey Todd, send some pics when you get time. I have evacuated, not sure when we will be back. I hope I still have a bike and a house when we return.

Brett

[DCCS Todd Holcomb]

Brett,

Will do. Take care and we have our fingers crossed for you and everyone else in that area.

Todd

[BMC Seth Tomas]

This thread seams to have died off.....time to rejuvinate (sp?) it!

It seems as though half my Station has gone out recently and either bought a cruiser or traded in a sport bike for one.....now they want to start a "gang"! LOL! :D

I found the www.coastguardriders.net site and just signed up....anyone here a member?

...ride safe...

Seth

[DCCS Brett Wickett]

I signed up a few years ago, but there was not much going on there. Have not visited the site in a long time though.

[BMCM Deane Smith]

We're going to be doing some RV'ing next week in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Ironically, it's the same week as the Sturgis Bike Rally. That should make for an interesting/fun week.

[BMC Seth Tomas]

We're going to be doing some RV'ing next week in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Ironically, it's the same week as the Sturgis Bike Rally. That should make for an interesting/fun week.

Have FUN! I wish I could pull that one off.....one of these years I'll make it to Sturgis! Take plenty of pics for us (or me....)!

[DCCS Brett Wickett]

For whate ever reason I don't have any desire to go to Sturgis, but I would liek to be RVing in the Black Hills. Take some pics to share when you return.

[BMCM Deane Smith]

Take plenty of pics for us (or me....)!

Take some pics to share when you return.

Will do! This will be our 2nd trip to the Black Hills, first was pre-kid days back in 1999. I love it up there and now am only 8 short hours away. We figured we'd go ahead and get a trip in before I have to go back to work.