Another Newbe Question

[Coptermike]

I have about 700 miles on a new 2013 RT Limited, most of it in the local area here in Texas. However, I have the opportunity to make a trip to Illinois for work and then on to Maggie Valley for the owner's event, finally returning to Texas. Total mileage is about 2500 over two weeks. 600 mile service is complete.

Since I am a rookie and part of this trip will be solo, I wanted to ask all of you great people for some advice regarding anything you can think of that would be helpful for me to pack and any traveling hints. For info, I am one up only and have an RT-622 trailer....space is not a problem. Will be using motels for sleeping.

I think maybe the first big hurdle is to determine how long my posterior holds up the first day......

Thought maybe someone might have a great list of stuff or a reference to a thread that might give me some good information. Any advice or help would be appreciated and I hope to meet some of you at Maggie Valley.

[Bob Denman]

Hi Mike!
what do you figure your mileage totals will be for each day's ride? I had never done more than 400 miles in a day prior to headuing to Missouri for SpyderFest. I managed the 600 plus mile days pretty well... Way better than I thought that I would!
Keep yourself hydrated...
Fuel stops every 120 miles or so; don't try to stretch it too far; it'll be one less thing to worry about!
LOTS of good sleep!
Don't eat too much; a full belly can make you sleepy!
Preparation will help you to remain confident and keep you from worrying about anything more than the traffic around you. That confidence gives you strength!

[Cruzr Joe]

Use a good seat cushion when possible, Airhawk "R" or similar

Keep Hydrated

Print out a copy of "Spyders to the Rescue" in case you need some help

Relax and don't try to do more miles in one day than you feel comfortable with

Cruzr Joe

(See Spyders to the Rescue on the home page.

[Jeriatric]

If possible start with a lower mileage day and add miles per day incrementally until you have a good idea of what works for you.

Basic tools - a search here will help identify what you need based on your mechanical and spyder familiarity.

The typical, other stuff. Flashlight, first aid kit, blanket.....commonsense items.

Most of all......allow enough time each day to enjoy yourself.

[Hberninger]

Coptermike,

Google "motorcycle packing lists" and you'll find many different opinions about what to pack.

On my last trip, I blew a fuse for the 12v outlet in the trunk. (The only problem I've ever had). I wish I had familiarized myself with the location and layout of the fuse block before I had an issue. If I would have pre-familiarized myself, it would have been a 5-minute fix.

I have toured on motorcycles for several years. In the beginning I over-packed. I pack much less now. Every year I look over my pack list and cross off the things that I've never used and probably never will. Unless you are going to Alaska or to some where desolate, anything you need but don't have is not very far away.

[Agent K]

Hydration and taking your time.

[SpyderAnn01]

You may want to get a tire repair kit and compressor also some additional tools (if you know how to use them!) a quart of oil, spray cleaner (Original Bike Spirits) some microfiber cloths. Be sure to get a hitch lock for your trailer and it is a good idea to have a second lock so that you can detach the trailer and lock it at your hotel. A small package of those gel pod detergent thingies and some dryer sheets some people even bring a roll of quarters for the laundromat.

As for clothes set out what you think you will need then take a second look and you may be able to leave some of it at home. For the Owners Event you will not need anything but motorcycle riding clothes so don't take up a bunch of space with non riding clothes. I usually pack a small bag with my clothes and things that I need for travel days then I don't have to bring in everything I've packed each night.

Don't forget chargers for your electronics

[Bob Denman]

Clothes... you can always mail the dirty laundry home!

[Chupaca]

Relax..take advantage of the fuel stops. Walk around stretch have plenty liquids. Pack for all kinds of weather. Carry some of the oil in your roadster and some gas. If handy the basic tools plug kit and air supply. You will be fine once you get on the road...enjoy..!!

[samewok]

I always car a patch kit and a compresser. Also oil and antifreeze in squee bottles.

[joet82]

I have about 700 miles on a new 2013 RT Limited, most of it in the local area here in Texas. However, I have the opportunity to make a trip to Illinois for work and then on to Maggie Valley for the owner's event, finally returning to Texas. Total mileage is about 2500 over two weeks. 600 mile service is complete.

Since I am a rookie and part of this trip will be solo, I wanted to ask all of you great people for some advice regarding anything you can think of that would be helpful for me to pack and any traveling hints. For info, I am one up only and have an RT-622 trailer....space is not a problem. Will be using motels for sleeping.

I think maybe the first big hurdle is to determine how long my posterior holds up the first day......

Thought maybe someone might have a great list of stuff or a reference to a thread that might give me some good information. Any advice or help would be appreciated and I hope to meet some of you at Maggie Valley.

FRED RAU'S "MOTORCYCLE BIBLE"! everything you'll need to know for the basics of long distance riding.

[Coptermike]

Hi Mike!
what do you figure your mileage totals will be for each day's ride? I had never done more than 400 miles in a day prior to headuing to Missouri for SpyderFest. I managed the 600 plus mile days pretty well... Way better than I thought that I would!
Keep yourself hydrated...
Fuel stops every 120 miles or so; don't try to stretch it too far; it'll be one less thing to worry about!
LOTS of good sleep!
Don't eat too much; a full belly can make you sleepy!
Preparation will help you to remain confident and keep you from worrying about anything more than the traffic around you. That confidence gives you strength!

Bob,

Thanks for the vote of confidence. I don't think I should have to do more than 450 miles a day. Hydration seems to be a theme from everyone. Sleep is not a problem....I figure if I can still walk when I get off the Spyder, I can make it to the bed....

[Coptermike]

You may want to get a tire repair kit and compressor also some additional tools (if you know how to use them!) a quart of oil, spray cleaner (Original Bike Spirits) some microfiber cloths. Be sure to get a hitch lock for your trailer and it is a good idea to have a second lock so that you can detach the trailer and lock it at your hotel. A small package of those gel pod detergent thingies and some dryer sheets some people even bring a roll of quarters for the laundromat.

As for clothes set out what you think you will need then take a second look and you may be able to leave some of it at home. For the Owners Event you will not need anything but motorcycle riding clothes so don't take up a bunch of space with non riding clothes. I usually pack a small bag with my clothes and things that I need for travel days then I don't have to bring in everything I've packed each night.

Don't forget chargers for your electronics

Thanks good advice, especially about the chargers! Does anyone else wish everything could be charged by some sort of universal charger?. Any specific advice about the hitch lock and a secondary lock? Also, does anyone sell aftermarket cover for the trailer? BMPs price seems a bit high

[northstarbrian]

Coptermike,

Google "motorcycle packing lists" and you'll find many different opinions about what to pack.

This is very smart advise. One thing I put in my bags when doing a 5000+ week ride other than what you will see is eye flush drops. It never fails when I ride I am ok, but when I am at some place that has lost of wind. (Wyoming) dust gets in your eyes. I have even gotten gas in my eyes one time. Your eyes are very important to you and it is important to listen to them. Examples: You have been riding for a while and yours eyes see a nice place to eat. Listen and go eat. Your eyes see your gas is getting low or your reaching 125 miles (fill up). Your eyes are getting heavy (stop and rest). Your eyes are your first line so keep them happy.

[Air Force PAO]

Copter Mike

I use the checklist from micapeak.com to take my road trips.

My next venture is: July & August, 7 national parks, 10 states, includes Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Las Vegas, Sturgis, Mt. Rushmore, & more. 4,000 miles.

You read it here first.

[CyncySpyder]

Highly suggest reading thru this thread, its got alot of good and useful info for newer Spyder Owners
http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?41346-quot-Do-s-and-Do-Nots-quot-for-new-Spyder-owners

Also, if you have enough time, I'd suggest ordering a Utopia Backrest and install it before your long trip, if at all possible. It is totally worth the price and will help alot. Also, again if you have time, get some type of highway peg or floor-boards installed, as having multiple positions to put your feet, legs and ankles will greatly help with your knees, butt and back getting all twisted up in uncomfortable knotts. Always try to keep your legs moving while on long distance rydes, otherwise, they will get sore fast.

[Coptermike]

Highly suggest reading thru this thread, its got alot of good and useful info for newer Spyder Owners
http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?41346-quot-Do-s-and-Do-Nots-quot-for-new-Spyder-owners

Also, if you have enough time, I'd suggest ordering a Utopia Backrest and install it before your long trip, if at all possible. It is totally worth the price and will help alot. Also, again if you have time, get some type of highway peg or floor-boards installed, as having multiple positions to put your feet, legs and ankles will greatly help with your knees, butt and back getting all twisted up in uncomfortable knotts. Always try to keep your legs moving while on long distance rydes, otherwise, they will get sore fast.

Thanks for the other thread as well. I have read through that document several times. Great reading. I will look into a back rest at least...thought I could probably see some of these other accessories (foot pegs, etc) at the Maggie Valley event.

Thanks

[Coptermike]

Copter Mike

I use the checklist from micapeak.com to take my road trips.

My next venture is: July & August, 7 national parks, 10 states, includes Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Las Vegas, Sturgis, Mt. Rushmore, & more. 4,000 miles.

You read it here first.

I will check that one out!

What a trip! Thanks for the encouragement.....if you can do I can do it

[jerpinoy]

If your sort out all these suggested stuff then you'll be alright but one thing you don't forget is wet ones.

Wet ones have many uses JMHO.

[SpyderAnn01]

Thanks good advice, especially about the chargers! Does anyone else wish everything could be charged by some sort of universal charger?. Any specific advice about the hitch lock and a secondary lock? Also, does anyone sell aftermarket cover for the trailer? BMPs price seems a bit high

You should be able to find the hitch lock at a hardware store or even Walmart. Mine has a pin and a small lock that slides onto the pin. The other lock I use is about 3' long cable with a lock on the end I put it through the wheels it I can't lock it to something else like a light post. Check out bicycle locks for one like it mine was a Buell MC lock.