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Prepping for first big road trip - Now with pics

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Old Jul 14, 2005 | 09:14 PM
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Default Prepping for first big road trip - Now with pics

Howdy all, getting ready to head out for 3 weeks on about a 4,500 mile road trip from KC up to MT, Canadia and back. Well, and stopping to see the parents. Had a couple questions.

Anyone know of a decent leather jacket that won't kill ya in the heat? I've got a biker's club jacket 50's, but I've lost 80 lbs since I bought it and it doesn't fit for **** any more, nor does it have any vents. So, all I've got for wearable riding gear at the moment is the new HD mesh jacket. On a long road trip I'm figuring that a feller'd get too dehydrated using it. HD has some nice jackets but at $600 it better cook and clean too. [:@] Also, just want some extra protection since I'll be riding unfamiliar roads for such a large amount of time.

Planning on picking up a windzone toolkit, and I got some cruiserworks defenders on the way. The old boots aren't rain friendly at all. I was planning on trying to rig up a way to get some water, for when I'm actually rolling. Current best thought is the place that makes the saddlebag inserts for heritages. They've got some cup holders there that should fit on a softtail. Welcome to suggestions though.

The last question is a bit more of a quandry. I was wondering if there's any trips or tricks to prevent swampass. The first few hundred miles are ok, but once it starts chafing the fun's over. Best suggestion I've heard so far is a older friend of mine that gold bond's up before heading out for the long hauls. At least delays the inevitable, albeit in a pretty humiliating manner. [:'(]

Gonna go get the luggage rack ordered this week. After that it's just packin and waitin for the day.
 
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Old Jul 14, 2005 | 09:36 PM
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Default RE: Prepping for first big road trip

I have a HD Nevada Jacket. Vents front and rear, plenty of pockets and storage. Chicago HD www.chicagoharley.com gives 20% so it was just under $400 delivered to my door.

Be sure to take a digital camera so you can post some pics along with the story of your ride.
 
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Old Jul 14, 2005 | 10:01 PM
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Default RE: Prepping for first big road trip

Here's your solution for chaffing:

http://www.antimonkeybutt.com
 
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Old Jul 15, 2005 | 01:53 AM
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Default RE: Prepping for first big road trip

Get a camelback for the water problem. I use them when I'm flying, riding, or running. Can't beat 'em, and you can get them in different sizes for your comfort. I've used them in 120+ degrees, and they stay cool too...

Mac
 
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Old Jul 15, 2005 | 09:13 AM
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Default RE: Prepping for first big road trip

Ahh, thanks Mac! I didn't think about that. I'll have to swing up to Cabela's and check them out.

One last question. Right now the bike has no security system on it. Would the factory system be worth putting on it? I bought the bike out of the crate before the dealer even opened it up, so they never put on the standard stuff. Most of the time I'll be with a big group of people, so I'm not worried about it. But the first 1,000 miles I may be solo. But, it's nebraska.
 
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Old Jul 15, 2005 | 10:01 AM
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Default RE: Prepping for first big road trip

I wouldnt worry with the security system, just pay the insurance premium. I would recommend some highway pegs, cause feet placement or variation is the key to comfort on long hauls, also, carry some winter gear because even in the summer you may find the temp to be less that comfortable. Enjoy the ride.
 
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Old Jul 15, 2005 | 04:53 PM
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Default RE: Prepping for first big road trip

Yar! I've got the diamondplate short pivot attachmen pegs attached to the mustache engine guard.
 
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Old Jul 16, 2005 | 03:13 PM
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Default RE: Prepping for first big road trip

for swampass nothing beats corn starch
 
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Old Aug 4, 2005 | 04:32 PM
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Default RE: Prepping for first big road trip

don't forget good sunblock. when i moved from philly to fla.. i got there and had an outline of my half helmet on my face and a wicked sunburn on the inner side of my elbows....sunblock saved my *** on our last trip....oh and most importantly make sure you paid your hog dues incase you need a tow..saved me 300 last ride
 
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Old Aug 4, 2005 | 10:22 PM
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Default RE: Prepping for first big road trip

If you haven't already left; don't forget the RAINGEAR!! I know we have forgotten what rain is here in Kansas, but you're not in Kansas anymore Toto.

 
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