I'm in west Michigan and have used the ferry as well. But, I prefer to go across the bridge into the U.P. then head west. The U.P. Has some nice riding and a lot less traffic. I avoid Chicago traffic and the area at all cost. Been there done that, not a fan.

 

When we did the Harley museum thing we were told to avoid Chicago at all cost. So we coughed up the money for the fast fairy. a nice relaxing 2 plus hours. The way back we went up thru the U.P. , mackinaw bridge route. Very nice ride.

 

I have been on the Lake Express with my bike many times. The ferry did supply tie downs, but there are no wheel chocks for your bike. You have to tie 4 corners and pull against the opposite pair of tie downs. I traveled with my own soft loops as they offered more options to tie the bike down.

Work as fast as you can to secured your bike because the ferry will leave port whether your bike is secure or not.

It is a nice trip when the weather is good.

Ken

 

Sounds like a blast! Enjoy.

 

Since I'm headed out on a weekday I think Im gonna give the High Speed ferry out of Muskegon a try, instead of that mess which is west on 94 to 80 past Gary and under Chicago, believe me if you can avoid that whole stretch on a weekday, do it.

Also heard on here that they're working on the bridge over the Des Plaines River, another good reason to take the Ferry.

 

We have 3500 miles under our belt. We arrived Maine in time for the wedding and we passed through the urban sprawl painlessly except for horrendous thundershowers. Wednesday we are headed southward, in our goal for 38 states. We have knocked off 19 so far. Water pump on the road glide quit, but that has been our only issue so far. I can’t relay the wonderful road experiences we have had. I do post on Facebook daily, but those photos are not interesting to you. Enough to say we really appreciated the help passing Chicago and Detroit urban areas. In the end I went through Canada and had a great stop at Niagara. Thanks again for sharing your road experience with us. We did 3500 miles in 10 days. Much of this on two lanes. As you know, that means a lot of seat time. I’ll need an oil soon. Pray for good weather. I’m not sure Maureen is ready for another week of thunderstorms and being soaked. In our 70s, it takes its toll on these old bones.

 

6100 miles, on the Kansas/Colorado border. Floods, heat, traffic in Niagara Falls, but the worst was riding at 70+ in St Louis traffic with construction, disappearing lanes, cars who cut in at 75 with inches to spare. Of all the tough aspects of the ride, that ride through St Louis was the most terrifying.

 

Glad you made it through Satan's country safe!

Here's to good weather!

Godspeed.

Sorce