Farther
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« on: January 17, 2015, 09:13:04 AM » |
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This Spring I will retire and I am planning a cross country ride from Northern California (the State of Jefferson) to Andersonville National Cemetery in Georgia by way of Northern Minnesota to pick up my older brother.
In preparation for the trip I will be changing all the fluids on my low mileage '03 Standard, including brake, clutch, antifreeze, crankcase and differential. New Hondaline brake shoes will replace the current noisy EBC ones. The rear shock bushings are already the VTX poly models. I'm going to have my mechanic look at the headset and swing arm bearings. There are new Avons on the bike along with the spline maintenance (for the record, I don't like the Avons as well as the Metzgers). I like to keep my tire pressure at 45 # both ends. New, permanent, 90 degree, machined aluminum, valve stems have been installed for a couple of years now. A few years back I installed Interstate carb springs and an Interstate ICM. A belly tank has been on the bike since 2010 so the petcock is not an issue. I will be riding solo and camping so there will be the weight of the camping gear but it won't exceed the weight of a second person.
What, if anything, else should I be checking?
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« Last Edit: January 26, 2015, 04:04:36 PM by Farther »
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Thanks, ~Farther
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Bighead
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« Reply #1 on: January 17, 2015, 09:15:07 AM » |
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The weather 
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1997 Bumble Bee 1999 Interstate (sold) 2016 Wing
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Farther
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« Reply #2 on: January 17, 2015, 09:20:49 AM » |
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Ya, the weather is always a crap shoot. I rode to eastern South Dakota in 2010 for my 40th high school reunion and had excellent weather if you don't count 103 temperatures. There will be a rain suit in my kit but what bike prep do you recommend?
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Thanks, ~Farther
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0leman
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« Reply #3 on: January 17, 2015, 09:23:45 AM » |
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Weather is a definite item to keep your eye on. Several places between here and there that can snowy in the spring.
Big thing is there are a lot of roads and sites you probably have not seen. Take your time and enjoy the trip.
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2006 Shadow Spirit 1100 gone but not forgotten 1999 Valkryie I/S Green/Silver
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pago cruiser
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« Reply #4 on: January 17, 2015, 09:58:19 AM » |
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I do at least one 500-1500 mile trip each month for work, along with commuting 100 miles each day and a couple big trips with the wife each summer. Assuming the usual suspects are dealt with b4 you leave (and I think you have them covered), two words sum up my biggest concerns on road trips: flat tires. After several "learning experiences" roadside, I now carry 3 solutions - and have used them all - at one time, simultaneously! 1. A can of auto size (NOT beer can size) "spare tire in a can". For a small leak, these have enough "goop" type stuff inside, and enough air behind it to get you off the road and into town. 2. A reliable 12V air compressor. I've tried about 4 different flavors, and have settled on this:  Several folks sell them; also suggest the in-line pressure guage. Unless you have already, need to install a 12V poweroutlet with good sized (12g) wires direct to the battery. 3. A well designed, hand gun type tire plugger. This forces the plug into the hole. Like this one:  I carry the air compressor, gauge, a 10' extension cord (have filled a few friends tires), the tire plugger gun/tools/plugs all in a small Pelican case EVERYWHERE I go. A couple summers ago I had a rear flat on I10 maybe 30 miles outside Van Horn TX (no cell phone service), apparently caused by a truck tire shard; the MAIN reason I will not ride in TX after dark. Left a jagged hole that took 3 plugs, the goop, and the air comp together to limp into Van Horn just after dark. The hole was leaking so bad I could only go about 2 miles before I had to stop and fill the tire up; again, and again, and again, and again, and again, and again, etc.. I was worried about running the battery down, so during filling the tire I would keep the rpm up on the bike. Could only run about 5 MPH on the shoulder of the freeway, with traffic zipping by doing 80-85 three feet away... But if I had not had all three of those items, I'd still be walking... Oh, If you have not already, know how to use a couple screwdrivers to short around your starting relay. Sounds like a fun trip. You gonna ride the Loneliest Hiway in America?
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Just because you are not paranoid doesn't mean they're not out to get you
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The emperor has no clothes
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« Reply #5 on: January 17, 2015, 11:06:42 AM » |
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Sounds like you've got everything covered pretty good. Congratulations on the retirement. (Always wondered where you were from) 
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Jess from VA
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« Reply #6 on: January 17, 2015, 11:28:55 AM » |
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The only other thing I can think of would be to pull the seat and side covers and do a general cleanup inspection/dielectric grease of wiring/battery and connections and that pesky starter relay plug that people post pics of burning up. Maybe put in all new fuses, and maybe new bright bulbs in tail and signals. How old will the battery be when you leave?
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NITRO
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« Reply #7 on: January 17, 2015, 11:52:04 AM » |
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Check brake rotor thicknesses.
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When in doubt, ride.
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pancho
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« Reply #8 on: January 17, 2015, 12:09:26 PM » |
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Sounds like a good trip Farther,, have fun. Wow,, Andersonville cemetary,, now that's a destination!
Personally I wouldn't worry too much about the bike, it can be over done,, I'd be more concerned about the mechanic tearing into the swing arm and head than the bearings themselves. I mean, how many miles will you log before getting back home 8K 12K ?? I would be prepared for flats like pago suggested, have my compliment of tools, enough money for an emergency, thank the Lord and hit the road.
Don't forget toilet paper......
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« Last Edit: January 17, 2015, 12:11:30 PM by pancho »
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The most expensive things you will purchase, are those things you would not have needed if you had listened and obeyed.
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Bighead
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« Reply #9 on: January 17, 2015, 01:21:02 PM » |
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besides the weather I woul;d check the Voltage on the battery but other than that sounds like you got her covered 
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1997 Bumble Bee 1999 Interstate (sold) 2016 Wing
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sandy
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« Reply #10 on: January 17, 2015, 01:23:27 PM » |
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Camelback makes several 100 OZ bladders for water. I have one that I strap onto the luggage bag. Extend the tube so you can drink while you're moving. Dehydration can be rough if you're many miles out of town. Hint: The lunch time waitress can be "smiled" into refilling with ice and water.
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Tfrank59
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Posts: 1364
'98 Tourer
Western Washington
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« Reply #11 on: January 17, 2015, 03:59:13 PM » |
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I do at least one 500-1500 mile trip each month for work, along with commuting 100 miles each day and a couple big trips with the wife each summer. Assuming the usual suspects are dealt with b4 you leave (and I think you have them covered), two words sum up my biggest concerns on road trips: flat tires. After several "learning experiences" roadside, I now carry 3 solutions - and have used them all - at one time, simultaneously! 1. A can of auto size (NOT beer can size) "spare tire in a can". For a small leak, these have enough "goop" type stuff inside, and enough air behind it to get you off the road and into town. 2. A reliable 12V air compressor. I've tried about 4 different flavors, and have settled on this:  Several folks sell them; also suggest the in-line pressure guage. Unless you have already, need to install a 12V poweroutlet with good sized (12g) wires direct to the battery. 3. A well designed, hand gun type tire plugger. This forces the plug into the hole. Like this one:  I carry the air compressor, gauge, a 10' extension cord (have filled a few friends tires), the tire plugger gun/tools/plugs all in a small Pelican case EVERYWHERE I go. A couple summers ago I had a rear flat on I10 maybe 30 miles outside Van Horn TX (no cell phone service), apparently caused by a truck tire shard; the MAIN reason I will not ride in TX after dark. Left a jagged hole that took 3 plugs, the goop, and the air comp together to limp into Van Horn just after dark. The hole was leaking so bad I could only go about 2 miles before I had to stop and fill the tire up; again, and again, and again, and again, and again, and again, etc.. I was worried about running the battery down, so during filling the tire I would keep the rpm up on the bike. Could only run about 5 MPH on the shoulder of the freeway, with traffic zipping by doing 80-85 three feet away... But if I had not had all three of those items, I'd still be walking... Oh, If you have not already, know how to use a couple screwdrivers to short around your starting relay. Sounds like a fun trip. You gonna ride the Loneliest Hiway in America? Does anybody have an opinion about those CO2 tire inflators? I carry two of those with me, and the manufacturer claims they will fill a motorcycle tire. Thinking about buying a small compressor, but $100 is a lot right now and I'm not planning a long trip anytime soon.
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-Tom
Keep the rubber side down. USMC '78-'84 '98 Valkyrie, ‘02 VTX 1800, '96 Royal Star, '06 Drifter, '09 Bonneville, '10 KTM 530, '04 XR 650, '76 Bultaco, '81 CR 450, '78 GS 750...
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Bighead
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« Reply #12 on: January 17, 2015, 04:32:29 PM » |
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you can get a smal tire compressor at any auto parts store for about $25 I have one that used to stay in the jeep when I had it. It is slow but will inflate a car tire to 40 psi.
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1997 Bumble Bee 1999 Interstate (sold) 2016 Wing
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Red Diamond
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« Reply #13 on: January 17, 2015, 11:20:34 PM » |
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My biggest concern on trips, ALTERNATOR.
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 If you are riding and it is a must that you keep your eyes on the road, you are riding too fast.
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Farther
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« Reply #14 on: January 18, 2015, 09:59:42 AM » |
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Good suggestion on battery and light bulbs. Both are on my list. I will be carrying a tire repair kit with plugs and CO2 cartridges and I have a tire compressor from my Miata roadster too. Ride-On has been in the tires for about five years now. I am less concerned about what to take than the pre-trip bike maintenance and was hoping that this thread could stay on topic of bike prep and not what to take.
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« Last Edit: January 18, 2015, 10:04:17 AM by Farther »
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Thanks, ~Farther
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gordonv
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Posts: 5763
VRCC # 31419
Richmond BC
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« Reply #15 on: January 18, 2015, 08:32:02 PM » |
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I am less concerned about what to take than the pre-trip bike maintenance and was hoping that this thread could stay on topic of bike prep and not what to take.
OK. Without reading all the posts again, to see what has been said or not, I think there is nothing other than regular maintenance that requires to be done. The other things about insuring that the tires will last, the oil change, and any other maintenance that might hit while on the road is done before you leave. Then there is maybe cleaning the starter and the alternator. Something most of us should do anyways. So that they are failure free.
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1999 Black with custom paint IS  
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Farther
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« Reply #16 on: January 20, 2015, 03:34:03 PM » |
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All good ideas.
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Thanks, ~Farther
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Jersey mike
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« Reply #17 on: January 20, 2015, 05:38:24 PM » |
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I'm still a little old school when it comes to emergency communications so I keep a hand held CB radio with me. They don't have the long range on a traditional CB but having access to CH9 is important and the one I have has a weather band also.
Just a thought.
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art
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Posts: 2737
Grants Pass,Or
Grants Pass,Or
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« Reply #18 on: January 20, 2015, 06:59:51 PM » |
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How many miles on your bike? Over 60000 miles yes an alternator may be good to carry. When out in the middle of nowhere is a good time for it go out. Steering head and swing arm bearings should be good for 100000 + miles. Checking the rear drive and wheel bearings is a must. Carrying extra wheel bearings is easy and recommended. I put 150000 miles on my standard before changing steering head bearings and even then they felt and looked good. Good luck on that trip, wish I was doing it.
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PhredValk
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« Reply #19 on: January 20, 2015, 07:51:55 PM » |
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Two of each fuse that the bike uses, including the big charge link from the alternator. Tool kit with duct and electrical tape. Some kind of handlebar or engine mounted cup holder to keep water handy. It seems that the more you have prepared for the less goes wrong. Have a great trip. Fred.
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Growing old is mandatory, growing up is optional. VRCCDS0237
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Novavalker
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« Reply #20 on: January 21, 2015, 12:41:17 PM » |
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I would inspect and re-lub the drive shaft and pinion cup too.
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“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”
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Tfrank59
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Posts: 1364
'98 Tourer
Western Washington
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« Reply #21 on: January 21, 2015, 01:34:54 PM » |
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Two of each fuse that the bike uses, including the big charge link from the alternator. Tool kit with duct and electrical tape. Some kind of handlebar or engine mounted cup holder to keep water handy. It seems that the more you have prepared for the less goes wrong. Have a great trip. Fred.
This is true, but Murphy's law says the thing that you didn't prepare for – that's what breaks! And reality is you can't cover every potential failure, so the question is is there a good way to get towing (assuming you have cell phone service or some means of communication), like AAA or whatever for automobile drivers? I know a lot of people use their auto insurance company for towing, but in Washington state I'm not required to have motorcycle insurance so I don't have any, and I'm wondering if there's a another way to have towing for a big bike anywhere in the country, should I need it.
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-Tom
Keep the rubber side down. USMC '78-'84 '98 Valkyrie, ‘02 VTX 1800, '96 Royal Star, '06 Drifter, '09 Bonneville, '10 KTM 530, '04 XR 650, '76 Bultaco, '81 CR 450, '78 GS 750...
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The emperor has no clothes
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« Reply #22 on: January 21, 2015, 04:37:05 PM » |
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Two of each fuse that the bike uses, including the big charge link from the alternator. Tool kit with duct and electrical tape. Some kind of handlebar or engine mounted cup holder to keep water handy. It seems that the more you have prepared for the less goes wrong. Have a great trip. Fred.
This is true, but Murphy's law says the thing that you didn't prepare for – that's what breaks! And reality is you can't cover every potential failure, so the question is is there a good way to get towing (assuming you have cell phone service or some means of communication), like AAA or whatever for automobile drivers? I know a lot of people use their auto insurance company for towing, but in Washington state I'm not required to have motorcycle insurance so I don't have any, and I'm wondering if there's a another way to have towing for a big bike anywhere in the country, should I need it. I think an AMA membership covers towing.
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Icelander
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« Reply #23 on: January 21, 2015, 05:56:00 PM » |
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I don't have AAA insurance but have them for roadside service. It's been invaluable and since I have the RV Plus subscription, They'll tow my car, trailer or motorcycle.
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1998 Valkyrie Tourer.
VRCC Member #36337
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gordonv
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Posts: 5763
VRCC # 31419
Richmond BC
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« Reply #24 on: January 21, 2015, 06:44:18 PM » |
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This is were I'll give a little plug for the GWRRA (and Valkyrie) and Road Side Plus.
The extended Plus insurance will cover towing to 100 miles. Also covers the whole family (who ever you register). I get my Goldwing Assoc. membership and the roadside assistance for $80 a year for the family. I was paying over $100 a year for CAA (AAA, BCAA) just for one person, and the motorcycle coverage was another $40.
Then I have their Goldbook which lists people who are willing and able to help.
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1999 Black with custom paint IS  
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garyheskett All 49 x 3 st.louis
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« Reply #25 on: January 22, 2015, 09:48:31 AM » |
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If you happen to come through St. Louis on your way south from Minnesota, you are welcome to spend the night at my house. Have a couple extra bedrooms, garage, wash the bike, even minor repair work. I've been retired a few years now---couldn't be better. Took 7 motorcycle trips last summer.
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Tfrank59
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Posts: 1364
'98 Tourer
Western Washington
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« Reply #26 on: January 22, 2015, 10:10:05 AM » |
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I don't have AAA insurance but have them for roadside service. It's been invaluable and since I have the RV Plus subscription, They'll tow my car, trailer or motorcycle.
We had AAA for our three cages and they said they wouldn't tow my motorcycle – curious
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-Tom
Keep the rubber side down. USMC '78-'84 '98 Valkyrie, ‘02 VTX 1800, '96 Royal Star, '06 Drifter, '09 Bonneville, '10 KTM 530, '04 XR 650, '76 Bultaco, '81 CR 450, '78 GS 750...
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Icelander
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« Reply #27 on: January 22, 2015, 10:34:14 AM » |
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You may have to upgrade to the RV Plus to get that.
They towed my bike home a couple of months ago when I got a flat tire at work.
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1998 Valkyrie Tourer.
VRCC Member #36337
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Bighead
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« Reply #28 on: January 22, 2015, 04:01:33 PM » |
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In my opinion you guys worry about waaaaayy to much stuff happening on a long trip. I rode to California and to Nova Scotia last year and didnt take anything extra from what I would have taken on a day trip from home. Do Motorcycles break yes, but if all you are thinking about is breaking down why not fly or trailer your bike. There is waaaaaaaay tooo much overthinking going on in this thread. I would walk out in my Garage right now and ride where ever anyone wanted and only check the tire pressure before leaving. Oh and I would have FUN doing it 
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« Last Edit: January 22, 2015, 04:13:28 PM by Bighead »
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1997 Bumble Bee 1999 Interstate (sold) 2016 Wing
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Tailgate Tommy
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Posts: 1438
2000 Interstate, 2001 Interstate and 2003 Standard
Fort Collins, Colorado
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« Reply #29 on: January 22, 2015, 04:29:47 PM » |
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Two of each fuse that the bike uses, including the big charge link from the alternator. Tool kit with duct and electrical tape. Some kind of handlebar or engine mounted cup holder to keep water handy. It seems that the more you have prepared for the less goes wrong. Have a great trip. Fred.
This is true, but Murphy's law says the thing that you didn't prepare for – that's what breaks! And reality is you can't cover every potential failure, so the question is is there a good way to get towing (assuming you have cell phone service or some means of communication), like AAA or whatever for automobile drivers? I know a lot of people use their auto insurance company for towing, but in Washington state I'm not required to have motorcycle insurance so I don't have any, and I'm wondering if there's a another way to have towing for a big bike anywhere in the country, should I need it. I think an AMA membership covers towing. I have AMA. Never have needed it. It's free if you set up your membership to auto renew yearly, as I recall.
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Farther
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« Reply #30 on: January 22, 2015, 05:18:00 PM » |
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If you happen to come through St. Louis on your way south from Minnesota, you are welcome to spend the night at my house. Have a couple extra bedrooms, garage, wash the bike, even minor repair work. I've been retired a few years now---couldn't be better. Took 7 motorcycle trips last summer.
Your offer is much appreciated. I will sent you a private message.
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Thanks, ~Farther
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Tfrank59
Member
    
Posts: 1364
'98 Tourer
Western Washington
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« Reply #31 on: January 23, 2015, 04:45:32 AM » |
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Two of each fuse that the bike uses, including the big charge link from the alternator. Tool kit with duct and electrical tape. Some kind of handlebar or engine mounted cup holder to keep water handy. It seems that the more you have prepared for the less goes wrong. Have a great trip. Fred.
This is true, but Murphy's law says the thing that you didn't prepare for – that's what breaks! And reality is you can't cover every potential failure, so the question is is there a good way to get towing (assuming you have cell phone service or some means of communication), like AAA or whatever for automobile drivers? I know a lot of people use their auto insurance company for towing, but in Washington state I'm not required to have motorcycle insurance so I don't have any, and I'm wondering if there's a another way to have towing for a big bike anywhere in the country, should I need it. I think an AMA membership covers towing. I have AMA. Never have needed it. It's free if you set up your membership to auto renew yearly, as I recall. Okay, thanks for that tip about AMA. I will check into it. And again I think that just having something set up for towing (and on a long trip maybe even from way out in the boonies), will give you the peace of mind that while okay maybe you didn't overhaul the whole bike, but you did the basic maintenance, and if something breaks it breaks. Deal with it if and when it happens. Like a lot of people are saying do your due diligence to prepare, and then just enjoy the trip! And of course post your pics when you get back 
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-Tom
Keep the rubber side down. USMC '78-'84 '98 Valkyrie, ‘02 VTX 1800, '96 Royal Star, '06 Drifter, '09 Bonneville, '10 KTM 530, '04 XR 650, '76 Bultaco, '81 CR 450, '78 GS 750...
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eric in md
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Posts: 2495
ride hard now we all can rest when were gone !!!
in the mountains .......cumberland md
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« Reply #32 on: January 24, 2015, 05:39:43 PM » |
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starter button service.. carry a alternator. lots of gas money and roll on
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Chrisj CMA
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« Reply #33 on: January 26, 2015, 11:03:30 AM » |
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I take it you have OEM front rotors with EBC pads. If you in fact have EBC rotors then DO NOT throw OEM pads on there, they will eat the rotors up.
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Farther
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« Reply #34 on: January 26, 2015, 02:16:09 PM » |
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I have stock rotors. The dealer only carry EBC so I will have to ordere the Hondaline pads.
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Thanks, ~Farther
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Tfrank59
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Posts: 1364
'98 Tourer
Western Washington
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« Reply #35 on: February 11, 2015, 12:28:16 PM » |
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I don't have AAA insurance but have them for roadside service. It's been invaluable and since I have the RV Plus subscription, They'll tow my car, trailer or motorcycle.
We had AAA for our three cages and they said they wouldn't tow my motorcycle – curious So a follow up on this – I bit the bullet and bought some motorcycle insurance even though it's not required in my state. I ended up with progressive, because USAA doesn't do motorcycle insurance, and I got roadside service that is very comprehensive and will even pay my hotel if I break down, all for about 150 bucks a year. It's worth it for the peace of mind especially on a trip. 
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-Tom
Keep the rubber side down. USMC '78-'84 '98 Valkyrie, ‘02 VTX 1800, '96 Royal Star, '06 Drifter, '09 Bonneville, '10 KTM 530, '04 XR 650, '76 Bultaco, '81 CR 450, '78 GS 750...
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Farther
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« Reply #36 on: February 11, 2015, 12:38:39 PM » |
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Probably the best advice I have gotten so far is to take half the crap you think you need and twice the money.
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Thanks, ~Farther
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Tfrank59
Member
    
Posts: 1364
'98 Tourer
Western Washington
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« Reply #37 on: February 11, 2015, 10:17:20 PM » |
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Probably the best advice I have gotten so far is to take half the crap you think you need and twice the money.
I really don't see how you could take half the stuff suggested here without pulling a huge trailer just for spare parts.
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-Tom
Keep the rubber side down. USMC '78-'84 '98 Valkyrie, ‘02 VTX 1800, '96 Royal Star, '06 Drifter, '09 Bonneville, '10 KTM 530, '04 XR 650, '76 Bultaco, '81 CR 450, '78 GS 750...
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R J
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Posts: 13380
DS-0009 ...... # 173
Des Moines, IA
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« Reply #38 on: February 12, 2015, 12:17:00 AM » |
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I would inspect and re-lub the drive shaft and pinion cup too.
Be sure & clean the 2 little holes out in the pinion cup.
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44 Harley ServiCar 
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Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005
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Posts: 13833
American by Birth, Southern by the Grace of God.
Beautiful east Tennessee ( GOD'S Country )
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« Reply #39 on: February 12, 2015, 10:43:15 AM » |
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Take the right side cover off and clean the starter relay. Several of these have fried and when they do the bike goes nowhere. 
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 I've seen alot of people that thought they were cool , but then again Lord I've seen alot of fools.
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