Input on a long trip
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6th Gear
Joined: Apr 2008
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Input on a long trip
Hey, I'm in the seattle area and have to go to billings mt again on monday. My plan because its the cheapest thing to do, is ride from here to billings on monday, one stretch. Its about 800 miles or so. Anybody think this is doable? I'm not an ironbutt by any means. My sister is undergoing major health issues and in hospital there. I just got back last night and have to work for a few days but need to be back over there on monday. I figure to ride over on monday and ride back on friday on my 2006 heritage. With gas the way it is and airfare out the roof I can save 5 or 6 hundred bucks by riding. I'm nervous about it but the weather looks ok and i need to be over there for her second major surgery in a week. Input? concerns? any thoughts would be appreciated...Jim
Cruiser
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 180
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From: Oregon City, OR
It won't be the most fun ride in the world, But it's doable. I believe you will qualify for an Iron Butt after that trip.
As long as your bike is ready, tires, brakes etc. Layer up, you may want to invest in some moisture wicking long-johns. Stop often, it doesn't have to be long but it keeps you fresh. (I don't always do it but one stop at the halfway point of a tank of gas goes a long long way)
A cramp buster or throttle rocker goes a long long way too. Just being able to loosen up on the right hand makes a world of difference.
Stay hydrated, eat fairly light, and try not to rush. There's plenty of daylight this time of year. Riding too fast for that long can wear you out.
Try to enjoy it, and best wishes for your sis.
J
As long as your bike is ready, tires, brakes etc. Layer up, you may want to invest in some moisture wicking long-johns. Stop often, it doesn't have to be long but it keeps you fresh. (I don't always do it but one stop at the halfway point of a tank of gas goes a long long way)
A cramp buster or throttle rocker goes a long long way too. Just being able to loosen up on the right hand makes a world of difference.
Stay hydrated, eat fairly light, and try not to rush. There's plenty of daylight this time of year. Riding too fast for that long can wear you out.
Try to enjoy it, and best wishes for your sis.
J
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,858
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From: Puyallup Wa.
You can do it but if it was me. I would only do it one way either to there or to home. But I would not want to put myself in a spot that I had to do it both ways. Thats one of those High alert rides those big red spots on the road means all those antelope or what ever they are get in the road. Plan two days down and get a feel for things then one shot back. Good Luck hope your sister gets well soon.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 4,351
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From: Illinois
I agree that it is doable, but I also agree it won't be much fun after the first half of the trip. The advice about stopping halfway through a tank of gas to strecth and get a drink of water is great advice. Even if it is only for two minutes, it will make a huge difference at the end of the day.
Be careful. Best wishes to you and your sister.
Be careful. Best wishes to you and your sister.
Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 234
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From: southern california
have you looked at leaving thursday after work? maybe get 200 miles or so behind you. motel 6 it for 39 dollars then start fresh friday morning. hope everything turns out ok for your sister.
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6th Gear
Joined: Apr 2008
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Thanks for the replies! I'm taking the bike in in the morning for an oil change and a checkover, my local dealer was nice enough to squeeze me in on short notice, just to make sure everything is good to go. Tires are fine. I like to stop every couple hours for a smoke anyway so it should be good. i must say I'm not as enthused as some rides but its gotta be done. thanks again, Jim
Tourer
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 294
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I went from Missoula to Portland via Polo Pass on Route 12 in one day. You lose an hour in your direction but if you go on the interstate you should be able to do it in one long day. I left at 8:00 am and arrived in Portland at 4:00pm. Since I 90 is much faster, you still have two additional hours and the time loss. Go for it, iron butt!_
Last edited by DBlass; Jun 14, 2012 at 10:18 PM.
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