Traveling advice

[Laila's Dad]

Hello all,

Seeing everyone so excited about Spyderfest 2013, got me to thinking about what it takes to prepare for a trip on the spyder. I asked in a previous thread if anyone kept gas cans with them and when folks stopped to get gas. I got some good info and I thank y'all for that...now I want some official trip planning advice. If you all would so oblige me, below are the scenarios I would like trip planning advice on:

1 Dallas to Austin, TX is about 3 1/2 hours a way - what kind of things should I bring and plan for before leaving and what should I be mindful of while on the road?

2 Dallas to Ozark, MO is about 7 hours away - what kind of things should I bring and plan for before leaving and what should I be mindful of while on the road?

3 Dallas to Orlando, FL is about 18 hours away - what kind of things should I bring and plan for before leaving and what should I be mindful of while on the road?

I know that many of you have taken trips of similar distances, so how did you prepare?

 

[MouthPiece]

If you're coming from Texas going to the Ozarks, I would imagine that you should have alternative routes (just to mention one thing) because of the tornado fronts that generate in Texas and head up that way. I'm coming from Flarda and will be doing the same.

Chris

 

[Bob Denman]

FIRST: Make sure that the bike is up to the trip...
Oil changes
tires and their pressures
drive belt
the electrics... :shocked:

Then it's on to you...
Route planning
Motels along the way?
Fuel stops; figure every 135 miles or so...
Health issues?
medications?
Next; Packing
What weather is forecast for the area in question?
Riding gear versus off-bike clothing...
Money: :yikes:
Carrying cash, versus credit cards or some sort of travelers checks

Anyway; this is how I've done it... I hope that it helps! :thumbup:

 

[currin20fan]

Traveling

Check this out.............www.micapeak.com. Scotty posted this a while back and its a big help to let you know just what you need to take with you while traveling. Its under "checklist"

 

[Oldmanzues]

I carry at least a quart of water with me at all times. Stay hydrated. A whole long subject.
Spare food/snacks. I carry a "school pencil box" of cheese crakers and/or engery bars, just in case.
A suggestion for clothing/personal items, put in a box and take to a motel (spare room) use just those items for a couple days. You can find what you use and do not. Try packing on the Spyder. Many motels have a washing machine that a guest can use, but usually you have to ask.
All good advice above, as usual.
Biggest thing, plan on having fun. Forget something, local store or do you really need it.
Oldmanzues

 

[JkRbbt]

The first couple of times I headed out on the open road on my H/D Ultra, I way over-packed. Take everyone's advice and then when you get home, get a pencil/paper and write down what you USED/NEEDED! Next time you will not over-pack. Also write down the things you FORGOT! pps: Won't be long before you will be the one handing out advice. :thumbup: Have a great trip!

 

[SpyderAnn01]

I carry at least a quart of water with me at all times. Stay hydrated. A whole long subject.
Spare food/snacks. I carry a "school pencil box" of cheese crakers and/or engery bars, just in case.
A suggestion for clothing/personal items, put in a box and take to a motel (spare room) use just those items for a couple days. You can find what you use and do not. Try packing on the Spyder. Many motels have a washing machine that a guest can use, but usually you have to ask.
All good advice above, as usual.
Biggest thing, plan on having fun. Forget something, local store or do you really need it.
Oldmanzues

:agree: I have the RT-622 but I still take a small bag for nights on the road so I don't have to unpack the trailer.

 

[Ga Blue Knight]

Besides all of the above go to the BRP site and get a list of Spyder Dealers along your route, just in case. Also take more than one credit card as sometimes when out of your normal area the bank security folks will shut down a card thinking its stolen. The most inportant advice is to ride your own ride and stay within your comfort limits. It does no good to do a 600 mile day if you are not used to it than have to lay up a day or do a reduced 300 mile day getting over it. Dress in simple layers as weather changes will be guarenteed that time of year. I wear jeans, long sleeve tee shirt, pullover sweater and leather Jacket. They come on and off as needed. Bring only three extra tee shirts, underwear and socks. Wear one set, wash one set (letting it dry) and one spare set. Stay away from very seet snacks as they will cause you to have a suger crash after they boost your energy. Use slow release snacks like peanut butter crackers, cheese, and nuts with rasions. Drink water at every stop whether you are thirsty or not to keep hydrated. Getting low in fluids can make you feel lethargic and sleepy. As I am an old codger with arthitis I take two Alieve tablets in the morning to keep joint swelling down. Talcum powder your bottom and feet each morning to keep rashes away. Other than that you should be good to go

 

[Jharpo]

Travel Cubes


I suggest you and anyone traveling, go to ebags.com and check out the "travel cubes". Inexpensive, well made, fully zippered bags in several sizes. Makes packing not only organized but much faster and all but the smallest cubes have handles. They are really great.
p.s. - I wish I was only 700 miles from Ozark. My trip will be over 1000 miles each way. Can't wait!

 

[Hberninger]

Hello all,

Seeing everyone so excited about Spyderfest 2013, got me to thinking about what it takes to prepare for a trip on the spyder. I asked in a previous thread if anyone kept gas cans with them and when folks stopped to get gas. I got some good info and I thank y'all for that...now I want some official trip planning advice. If you all would so oblige me, below are the scenarios I would like trip planning advice on:

1 Dallas to Austin, TX is about 3 1/2 hours a way - what kind of things should I bring and plan for before leaving and what should I be mindful of while on the road?

2 Dallas to Ozark, MO is about 7 hours away - what kind of things should I bring and plan for before leaving and what should I be mindful of while on the road?

3 Dallas to Orlando, FL is about 18 hours away - what kind of things should I bring and plan for before leaving and what should I be mindful of while on the road?

I know that many of you have taken trips of similar distances, so how did you prepare?

I have taken 2 & 3 week trips alone and do a 5 or 6 day trip with a group every year. Here's my 2-cents worth: Make a checklist. After every trip, review what you used and what was extra - then refine your list. In the beginning, I over-packed. I found I could do fine with much less "stuff". After several trips, you'll have a list that fits your needs. On the top of my list is a cell phone. As for other things, unless you are going into the wilderness, you will never be far from a Wal-Mart or some place where you can get what you forgot. I'm not a mechanic, so I don't carry an excessive amount of tools. That's why I pay for a road-side assistance program.

Relax and enjoy your rides.

 

[PrairieSpyder]

I haven't done a motorcycle road trip yet. Syderfest will be my first. But I follow one overall rule for all kinds of travel. Make a list of everything you think you'll need and how much cash to carry. The delete half the stuff and double the money.

 

[Raknid]

I agree with much that has been said, especially do not overpack and keep a checklist that you refine. Or have different versions of list based trip length, camping or hotels, going with others that can share tools, etc.

I make sure have a tire patch kit, plug in mini compressor for air. Other than that, basic tools. Job gets bigger, I am calling for a tow.

Don't forget to hydrate and make sure your full gear is waterproof. Be flexible on itinerary. Stuff happens on the road. Traffic, come upon things you may want to see (and did not plan for), weather, etc. Enjoy the trip and do not let get-there-itis get to you. I know it is tough when trying to get home. I usually plan extra return time just in case. If i get home early, I have some extra time to clean the bike.

Have fun!

 

[Yazz]

All the above is great advice, just want to add one more thing...

When planning a road trip on a Spyder, think miles not time.

You'll be stopping for gas more often than a car would. Also, at gas stations there might be people with questions which makes stops even longer.

Sometimes you can do alot of miles, sometimes not. It depends of the weather and terrain.

 

[asp125]

As others have said, pack the essentials for safety (tools, AAA card, leatherman), communication (phone), route finding (maps or GPS), and personal comfort (hydration, rain suit, any meds etc)

Beyond that, comes clothing etc. I always bring too much. Try a short overnighter, pack what you think you'll need. Other than the essentials if there was something you didn't use, remove it from the list next time.

I try to me a minimalist, since I ride two wheels. But with the Spyder and luggage space I suspect I will have room for some "luxury items".

http://canyonchasers.net/tech/packing_list.php <- I use this one.

 

[thehawk]

along with what others have said, I prefer the new Gorilla tape to duct tape and always include some nylon zip ties (not plastic) and an assortment of worm-drive hose clamps. these can be 'seriesed' for bigger spans. once had a weld break and they were invaluable!

thehawk

 

[NancysToy]

All good suggestions. As you have seen, what you carry will depend a lot on your climate, your skills to affect roadside fixes, how populated the area is, and on your own personal preferences. I doubt if any two of us have the same "junk in the trunk". If I had one piece of new advice to add, it would be "think like a backpacker." A motorcyclist must carry the bare essentials unless he has a trailer behind. I would also suggestr doing a small trip first...a 200-300 mile day, out and back, is a good test. Then you can start to stretch things out, as you learn your limits and endurance.

Essentials to me:
Rain Gear
Gorilla Tape
Zip Ties
$100 in an envelope, tucked away where you can get it if your wallet disappears
Credit cards
Cell phone
Spare key
Stop-N-Go tire patch kit & small compressor (Ride-On in tires is a good alternative)
Sun screen
Water
Protein snack bar
Sunglasses
Spare gloves

I carry plenty of other stuff, depending on the distance and conditions, but these things accompany me anywhere. I also recommend checking all fluids before you leave, checking air pressures, and considering your service needs so you don't have to arrange for service on the road, if possible. Get out there and try a short road trip, then longer ones. You will quickly figure what is essential.

 

[Bob Denman]

Well since I'm now also considering what to carry on the trip to Ozark yes::yes::yes::yes, I'm now gonna have to go back and read all of these great suggestions again... only more carefully! :2thumbs:

 

[Schnauzer]

Hello all,

Seeing everyone so excited about Spyderfest 2013, got me to thinking about what it takes to prepare for a trip on the spyder. I asked in a previous thread if anyone kept gas cans with them and when folks stopped to get gas. I got some good info and I thank y'all for that...now I want some official trip planning advice. If you all would so oblige me, below are the scenarios I would like trip planning advice on:

1 Dallas to Austin, TX is about 3 1/2 hours a way - what kind of things should I bring and plan for before leaving and what should I be mindful of while on the road?

2 Dallas to Ozark, MO is about 7 hours away - what kind of things should I bring and plan for before leaving and what should I be mindful of while on the road?

3 Dallas to Orlando, FL is about 18 hours away - what kind of things should I bring and plan for before leaving and what should I be mindful of while on the road?

I know that many of you have taken trips of similar distances, so how did you prepare?

The first thing you want to do is make sure you have your route planned. Notify someone if possible at both ends of this info. Call during the journey.
"Know your LIMITS" Can you ride that long safely.
Granted you'll be stopping about every 100 miles for fuel, but will your stamina allow for a full day in the saddle.
Do you have an "ICE" packet.. In Case of Emergency. with all your info and contacts. "We have ours on a flash drive. I really wonder if it would be found.
Keep a stash of cash on hand. Preferably not in your pocket / wallet.
Dress accordingly and take extra just in case.
Keep plenty of fluids ( Water )on board, the frunk is a great ice chest. That big-ole sippy-cup is great, but caffeinated drinks are not the best for hydration.

Again "KNOW YOUR LIMITS"

 

[Laila's Dad]

Well since I'm now also considering what to carry on the trip to Ozark yes::yes::yes::yes, I'm now gonna have to go back and read all of these great suggestions again... only more carefully! :2thumbs:

You know Bob, when I ask questions like these it is with the intent that it will help more than just me. It is good to know that some of the veteran spyder riders still like a little info now and then. That makes me feel a little less inadequate.
nojoke

 

[MickeyFisher]

Again, all good suggestions. But definitely be conscious of hydration and sunscreen, even if it doesn't seem like it is all that hot or sunny out. I drink water or gatorade at every fuel stop and generally reapply some sun screen there. I'm always surprised at how quickly I get dehydrated while riding.

When I did my first big trip on the Spyder, I figured I'd do 600 miles a day, easy. I could drive double that in a car in one stretch, surely it'd be no problem. Brother, I was dead wrong! It took me a year to work up to a 700 mile in a day kind of ride, and I needed a little assist from Aleve for that, lol. So like others have said here, take time and ride your ride.