The wife and I will be taking the SS Badger ferry from Ludington, MI across the lake to Manitowoc, WI at the end of June. Aside from using two tie-straps, anything else I should be doing with our '16 Ultra Classic? We have security and alarm installed, so do I need to disable any of that during the 4-hour trip across Lake Michigan or...???

Thanks!!!

 

Living near Ludington we have taken the Badger many times. I have traveled with my Goldwing and now my Ultra never a problem. Usally you tie down the forks, use a soft tie or I put on a set of teardrop tie downs on forks makes it simple to tie down. The only other tip is take with you what ever you want on deck, camera, jackets, ect. You cant get back to bike once you leave. Also they have a breakfast buffet on board for morning crossings. Bob

 

Don't forget to bring a barf bag, just kidding, not really :>).

 

I took the Lake Express from Milwaukee to Muskegon last September. It's faster, 2 hours instead of 4. Much more modern craft. But it was choppy that day and I turned green within 30 minutes. They do have dramamine available. Next time I'll take it before I board.

Although they provide tie-downs, they are pretty dirty, greasy. I brought my own. Two in front and two in back.

 

One year a bunch of cyclists asked for a below deck tour. We were taken into the engine area. The engineer set a quarter on edge and slowly brought the engine RPM's up. What a well balanced engine.

 

I traveled on SS Badger two years ago with a limited towing a Bushtec trailer. I used 4 tie downs 2 for the bike 2 for trailer. Didn't need to put alarm in travel mode - bike isn't going anywhere so I put the fob in the fairing pocket. It was a great crossing and nostalgic being on a coal fired steamer. Took advantage of the buffet breakfast. Overall a very positive experience- enjoy your trip.

 

I have taken the Bagger - you will love the trip - very relaxing.

If possible, put the Harley tie downs on your bike - this just makes it much easier. I carried my own tie down straps - ones that I use when I trailer the bike during the winter. All that was needed is 2 - as someone aid, bike will not go anywhere.

Also, since you have the alarm, yes, do disable it just like if you were towing.

Special note. Been married for a lot of years so, the wife and i decided to get a cabin for the return night trip This way, we could sleep a bit and even have some fun. Got to our room...wow, they are so small - there way NO WAY -and she didn't have a place to run (LOL). Still, was worth it just to relax a little.

Enjoy

 

I appreciate this thread. The wife and I are riding to Milwaukee in three weeks. I was told there was a ferry that would allow us to easily bypass Chicago. I checked out the website briefly but did not notice if a reservation is required.

Thanks

 

Cosmic - yes, do make reservations. My opinion, the Bagger is slower.....but you'll get a better ride.

 

I have never taken the ferry. But, I have considered it so thanks for the tip about seasickness. When I go boating on big water I take Bonine. It is non sedating, unlike Dramamine.

It's available generically too.