So me and the guys have decided to head to Rolling Thunder next year. The trips about 300 miles. My concern is I have been told that all you do is idle all day whine waiting in line for the parade. I have a 48 and am concerned about the 2.1 gas tank? I am bringing a 1 gallon reda can in my buds saddlebag as a precaution for the trip.

Opinions?

 

Last time I was there was 2010. Everyone stages in the Pentagon parking lot and if remember correctly gates open at 0600 and the procession begins to leave at noon. We got there about 7:15. You que up in rows as you arrive but once you are in position you shut the bike down. Yeah you're waiting for hours but the bikes not running. You might top off the tank before you get to the Pentagon but you'll be fine.

 

Sounds good. That's what I figured but my buddy who sent years ago was telling me how he burnt half a road king tank just waiting in line. Guess he didn't shut the bike down. Thanks bud

 

Need to get up there myself, it's on the list just not for next year. I would still keep the spare fuel in your buddies saddle bag!

 

The other option is to go down on Constitution Ave. and watch the parade instead of being in it. Find a place to park and find a place to stand or sit. Getting in and out of town can be a bear and gas stations are a bit sparse.

 

I actually switched to the 3.3 gallon tank. That an a extra gallon reda pack in the buddies saddlebag should be fine.

 

I have been involved with Rolling Thunder for years. I wouldn't worry about the gas. For me the best option is to ride to the Pentagon with one of the police escorted groups leaving the HD dealers, then break off and find a place to watch the parade through DC. Just be careful riding in the group. The riders abilities vary greatly from expert to no business riding. Every year we have crashes heading up to DC.

 

Yeah, you don't want in parade, park across from Lincoln Memorial in the grass like we do every year and watch parade! If you get in parade you'll be trapped in parking lot staging all morning! Usually hot out then, porta potty's are a mess!

 

See you there we will be on the Harley.

 

will disagree with those who say you dont need to do the ride. Everybody needs to ride it once. It is an experience going over Arlington bridge and everyone lined up waving flags and slapping hands with you. You will not get that parked. nor will you see the gunny saluting you as you ride past him. pretty sure he doesnt salute the grassy area. Get to the parking lot early to leave early. take some snacks, water and something to either make shade of or stretch out on. The ride is short, less than two miles. fuel wont be a problem even if you were on reserve when you started.