Long Distance Safety
Road Captain
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 502
Likes: 0
From: lone grove, oklahoma
Besides the obvious things (eating before you leave,taking frequent breaks etc.) take some artificial tears with you and use them at every stop this really delays the onset of tired eyes and makes a long trip much more comfortable. Stay safe and good luck.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,926
Likes: 185
From: Utah
Hadn't thought about the artificial tears. Good tip. Even though I'll probably ride with glasses instead of contacts for that same reason, adding the artificial tears is a good idea.
Our route should be relatively low on traffic -- we're taking the loneliest road (Hwy 50) across Nevada and then returning to Utah via I-80. We will have the greatest traffic at the end of the ride -- coming through SLC -- but by the time we get there it should be past any kind of rush hour.
Thanks for all the good suggestions.
Our route should be relatively low on traffic -- we're taking the loneliest road (Hwy 50) across Nevada and then returning to Utah via I-80. We will have the greatest traffic at the end of the ride -- coming through SLC -- but by the time we get there it should be past any kind of rush hour.
Thanks for all the good suggestions.
Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 716
Likes: 10
From: Shreveport,La
I am thinking of doing a Saddle Sore 1000 this May. The route is well planned and I'll be riding with a few other guys with a kind of "buddy system" (you either both make the 1000 miles or neither of you does, but you stay together). My wife is really worried about the length of the ride. I'm basically getting the "do whatever you want" response, but it's more than obvious she doesn't want me to go. I'd be interested in some experienced and informed opinions on the dangers of a long distance ride.
BTW, I'm not just looking for ammo in my discussion with my wife, and I don't need a bunch of guys telling me "get some stones and do what you want". I sincerely care about her worries and I want to be able to either ease them or, if appropriate, give heed to them.
Thanks,
BTW, I'm not just looking for ammo in my discussion with my wife, and I don't need a bunch of guys telling me "get some stones and do what you want". I sincerely care about her worries and I want to be able to either ease them or, if appropriate, give heed to them.
Thanks,
Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 527
Likes: 0
From: Sparks, NV
Since you're from Utah, you probably understand that you have to watch your gas. Those little towns on Hiway 50 are few and far between and they close everything up fairly early in the evening. They don't call it the "Lonliest Road in America" for nothing. Don't ask me how I know! Good luck and be safe.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,926
Likes: 185
From: Utah
Thanks,
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,220
Likes: 2
From: iowa
Do your homework. Know what is on your route, When I did the 1000/1500 I let a buddy who I trusted lay out the route. WHat a mistake. We started out on Interstate and made damn good time but about 10 hrs into it he cut off on to 2 lane highways, about 2 hours later it started getting dark and we still had 150 miles to cover. Needless to say it was not the way I would have planned it but I screwed up and let him plan it. Also, drink a lot of H2o and Gator Aid. And if you are not ending up at home after your 1000miles then have a room reserved, you will need it.
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 1,616
Likes: 17
From: Mid West
Our iron butt ride will be at least 2200 miles round trip, figuring 7-8 days ride with good weather and a few isolated odd stops beyond fuel, food and sleep. Should be able to average 300-400miles/day for the ride, more some days, less on others.
I am setting the trip up with a house sitter who we will call every day unless trouble, and taking a touring guide for bike shops, hotels, gas and so on. I will have had the bike fully serviced just prior to leaving out and may need one service on the road if we extend at all. Anything fails long term downtime and the old lady gets mailed home by air, I will stay with the bike.
I am setting the trip up with a house sitter who we will call every day unless trouble, and taking a touring guide for bike shops, hotels, gas and so on. I will have had the bike fully serviced just prior to leaving out and may need one service on the road if we extend at all. Anything fails long term downtime and the old lady gets mailed home by air, I will stay with the bike.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 3,450
Likes: 4
From: El Cajon Ca.
It's not a good idea to have your bike serviced just before a long trip. Have it done a week ahead of time so if the wrench made a mistake it will show up before the trip. I do all my own services so I know it's done right.