June 2015 - US bike RIDE

[live2ride]

Hello to all Valkyrie riders.

This is my first post in this forum. I purchased a Valkyrie about 2 months ago, and now I am planning a  ride to cover the 4 corners of the United States. I am estimating a trip of 9,000 - 11,000 miles and 31-33 states. Please share tips, advises, suggestions on places to see, roads to ride, gear to take, places to camp...
Would love to have riders join me on this trip or even portions of it....

I also created a facebook group for this event, its open so feel free to join... https://www.facebook.com/groups/usbikeride/

[Oss]

just make damn sure you stop by for Inzane
in June

Spearfish South Dakota or so I am told

I would suggest going west before north and east just because
of the heat

Have fun, make sure you have a comfortable seat before starting the trip by taking a 400 mile ride tomorrow and see how you feel

[live2ride]

I originally planned to go west then north, now i am rethinking it due to the fact that the PCH is a much better ride going south (on the ocean side) considering the fact it will be one of my personal highlights of this trip, i am thinking of reversing it.

The seat I have is very comfy, I also have a back rest, the only think i need to improve the comfort is get higher risers.

now i am researching the most cost effective gear... any recommendations ?

Also I figured I will have more chances making it to inZane if i take the east coast route first as i plan to spend extra time on the west coast and the southwest region.

[IamGCW]

Quality riding gear, especially the rain suit.  Simple tool kit.  Small quality tent.  Ground mattress.  Small cook stove.  Small tarps.  Bungee cords and bungee nets.  Large T-Bag.  Pack and unpack 3 times minimum.  Each time remove something.  Buy what you need along the way and toss out or ship home the things you aren't using.  Pack clothes into ziplock bags and then in trash bags inside the T-Bag.  Chaps keep the pants clean.  Water and energy bars help.  There is a forum ADVRider.com that has good info on trips, stealth camping, packing lists, help lines (also VRCC is great for help). 

If you have a smart phone a free tracker I use is SPOTWALLA.  Another forum member tracked my progress and encouraged me to be safe, stay hydrated, and texted weather info as I traveled.  He also was my base crew should I need help.  If you can while traveling keep a thread rolling with your trip and post pictures. 

Last year I did a 11K mile trip.  Started with double darkside and new brakes.  Tires are still good, brake inspection is in a week.  Service the rear end before heading out.  Bring a toothbrush since you will get bugs in your teeth smiling as you travel the greatest country in the world, USA.

Gil

[gordonv]

Congratulations on getting the bike.

I think we also need a little more info. I don't do the Facebook thing, so you might have posted there already.

When do you plan on leaving, and how long do you want to take?

Like mentioned, there is the annual Inzane ralley this year in SD, around the Black hills. Mt Rushmore, Yellowstone.

I would like to go to those places around Utah (?), Zion, Monument, and the other parks there. Maybe even the Grand Canyon.

[sandy]

If you want to enjoy the trip, take at least a month, so you can stop and absorb the experience.

[live2ride]

IAMGCW, Great tips, thank you.

I have already submitted requests to AT&T and Verizon to sponsor Live audio, video and 2 GPS signals (one on me, one on the bike)... We'll have to see how that's gonna work out, but even if they dont do it, I will find another way to stream it to webviewers live. I will also check out SPOTWALLA. I know what darkside is, and would only trust a CT on a long ride like that, but what do you mean by double darkside ???


Gordon, I am working on a detailed map, which will include precise camping spots, gas stations and POIs...I will share it here, maybe we can collaborate and hit that ride together, maybe other members can join as well... the more of us the safer we all are...


Sandy, I will be rolling out with an open time frame... I estimate about a month, but it may last two... who knows... once I am on the road, my only concern will be to make the MOST i can out of this trip.

[IamGCW]

Double darkside is a rear tire on the front, often running it in reverse direction.  That gets you more tread and longer life.  There are many threads on it, I run a Dunlop 404 and love it.  Snow, gravel, rain, hot, mud all in one trip and it went fine.  You may want to post in the Florida section, we have many long distance riders there.  As well several are expert Valk mechanics that can help you prepare the bike or repair the bike after the trip (if something fails). 

Spotwalla is free.  So long as you have cell or wifi it uploads your position.  The app on the phone allows for custom icons to be displayed during stops.  Fuel, lodging, help, ok are a few.  I paint position every 10 minutes.  During our last trip I shared a secure link allowing anyone to track us (stalkers).  It works ok for me, but there are many other apps that may work for you.  Grumpy uses one that emails his wife (I think that what he said).

For my trips I carried two GPS and maps.  I kept a card in my wallet with emergency numbers.  I also had a larger paper in my T-bag with the same info.  I also carried a few cardboard signs for the "Billy Boy" girls to pose with.

Gil

[NEHI]

      In the last 5 years I have put 72k with over 8 months total time on my Valk touring the US and Canada. The route that you have planned will not give you the chance to see some of what our great country has to offer. I live in Boynton Beach,fl. Before you plan much more we need to sit down and talk. I can give you a wealth of info on where to go, camping, packing and things you have not thought of yet.
   E mail me.
    BSCW90@yahoo.com

[BobB]

I just want to point you to the Southern California Motorcycling Association (Google SCMA).  They organize four corner rides an you may find useful information there.  Congratulations on your choice of rides and welcome aboard.

[baird4444]

      In the last 5 years I have put 72k with over 8 months total time on my Valk touring the US and Canada. The route that you have planned will not give you the chance to see some of what our great country has to offer. I live in Boynton Beach,fl. Before you plan much more we need to sit down and talk. I can give you a wealth of info on where to go, camping, packing and things you have not thought of yet.
   E mail me.
    BSCW90@yahoo.com

yes siree....
   if you really want to see this country stay
   off the super slabs, slow down just a bit
   and enjoy the ride!!

[Woton]

Clearly a great bike choice, and from your quote in the signature line it's obvious you intend to go into this trip with your eyes open.

Many of us don't do Facebook, but all of us would like to know a bit more about you and what brings you to this adventure at this point in life.

[Jess from VA]

Pick a route further from Chitcago.  

For instance, in Buffalo, take the 401 across Ontario to Port Huron/Sarnia Blue Water Bridge, go North thru the UP and West from there.  (Unless you carry a firearm)

Here's some good risers, straight bolt up.   http://www.aeromachmfg.com/RISER_SET_4_VTX_Retro_1300_p/am-4120c.htm

[live2ride]

What about these ? http://www.ebay.com/itm/5-5-Chrome-Handlebar-Risers-For-Honda-Shadow-VT750-1100-VTX-1300-1800-GOLD-WING-/221604153070?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&fits=Make%3AHonda%7CModel%3AValkyrie+1500&hash=item3398a306ee&vxp=mtr

I am 5-10, currently have the stock risers, which are good when i sit up streight, but if i try to lean on the backrest, the handle bar is a bit too far to be comfy...


A bit about me:
My name is Andrey Sergatiuk, I am 28 years old, currently a Real Estate Agent in South Florida. I have lived here for 14 years, 4 years ago I got my first motorcycle, a 2005 Suzuki M50, Since then I spend more time on 2 wheels than I do on 4. I have always wanted to do a road trip on a bike, however the M50 is not an adequate motorcycle for such a ride. Approximately 2 month ago I acquired a 1998 Honda Valkyrie which is built exactly for that purpose.
I am always drawn to new adventures and facing the unknown, this is what this trip will be about.
I enjoy a good physical and mental challenge, as a kid, I always looked for the next highest tree to climb, the next adrenaline rushing adventure or the next unknown place to explore. With time, work-life, and adulthood, many of those adventures, desires and opportunities faded into the past. So I declare 2015 to be a year full of adventures, new experiences, explorations and challenges...



NEHI, I will take you up on the offer (: (thank you !!!)
Will send you an email later today.


IAMGCW, you have opened my eyes to a new world... never thought that is even doable. I will look into that !!!

[flcjr]

A few of us from Montana will be attending Inzane. If you happen to make it to that you could sure join us for the trip back west and we could point in the right direction around here.  If you don't make Inzane look me up when your near by and I may join you for a day or least offer some local knowledge it appears your route will take you thru my home town. Check out the Vortex on the homepage it maybe a valuable tool on your trip!

[Jess from VA]

Andrey, there is a pretty large and competent Valk crowd in FL.  I recommend you hook up with them on some rides and lunches (they are big on lunches LOL), and do some tire kicking and look their bikes over for mods and ideas.  Most will have different risers, seats, boards yada, and you can sit on their bikes and talk things over.  There is a pretty active FL chapter of VRCC on this site.  

Those 5.5" risers will require rerouting of the throttle cables, unlike the 4"ers I posted.  Not a big job to reroute the cables, but not a straight bolt up.

I'm 5'9" and have 5.5s on one valk, and 4" on another.  I like the 5.5s better for travel and laid back cruising, and the 4" better for technical mountain twisties.  Either are fine, but the stock 3 1/8" risers are too much of a reach for me.  

[live2ride]

Its been a few days since I had a chance to read the last comment (real estate has been booming overwhelmingly), thank you for the GREAT TIPS.

I am trying to plan it out in the best possible way to make it to inZane... LOTS of planning... ugh...

So far I have the east side of my trip planned...


Any tips on where to camp or stay without breaking the bank ?

[Hooter]

   IF that is your bike in the pic the seat is a good one. This is just me, put some passing lamps on that thing. You need to be seen and that time of  year in some states people are still not used to bikes. Some think the headlight alone is enough which is fine, but extra light to the front is most important IMHO. Pack as light as you can, most over do it.. Take some basic tools and a tire kit. These guys are right. As much as you can stay off the expressways. Your going on a vacation to enjoy yourself, the bike and the experience, the  xway doesn't do that for you. Find routes that will allow you to take your time but allow you to ride the pace you want to. To go like hell isn't fun for very long and it will beat you up and wear you out. Then the trip becomes work and 4 corners may become 2? If you get tired get off the bike for a while.
   Drink water even when you don't want it. You will unknowingly dehydrate. Sunscreen is your friend as well. Go over the bike before you leave. Check all the nuts and bolts / fluids/ tires. Rain suit, get a good one. Don't forget any management med(s) you may take along with any over the counter stuff you may use like aspirin and allergy meds.
   Welcome to the forum. The advise you will get here is all good. Most of us have done what you are about to do or have a ton of mile on us taking trips.
   Let a wife, friend or S.O. know your route. Call each night and let someone know where your are and that you are OK. IF you should have a problem or need any help come here and ask. These guys will go out of their way to help someone and are all over the country.
   Plan well and enjoy the trip.

[Momz]

May I suggest "Mick-O-Pegs" to help relieve minor leg discomfort and possible cramping.

http://ridingiswonderful.com/id31.html

[WNGD]

Im glad to see you ride often. Trips like this are not simply a matter of I have ridden for years.....
If you are not used to 400 mile or 8 hour rides, this is very ambitious. Count on at least 20% longer times riding than any maps tell you it will be.

10 hours in a car is nothing. 10 hours on a bike back to back are long days.....

[Black Pearl's Captain]

I wouldn't base my route direction on being on the coast side of the west coastal highway. Most of the time you can't see the ocean thru the tree's and the pullouts are the only place you can stop. There are forest service camps all across the nation, that or hidden camping are the only cheap camping there is left. The west coast highway is a lot like A1A in your state, lots of slow traffic including large trucks. You see very little ocean anywhere in Oregon and Washington. There isn't really any highway on the "coast" in those states. You will tire of the slow traffic. Fly some of it with google map.

Don't miss avenue of the giants.

Small towns in most western states have city campgrounds cheap or even free. I camp 95% of the time on my trips now and usually try for free. Rodeo grounds have never let me down. I can't make a lot of west state camping suggestions without knowing your route better. Lots of places to camp out west but not with glaringly obvious road signs saying camp here.

[Rams]

Not necessarily advice but, I do suggest you consider a pull behind bike trailer.     On a trip that long, I know I'd be packing heavy.

I used to travel on longer trips with my Valkyrie loaded down, then I got the pull behind.    I've never regretted it.    No longer do I need to take extra time to load up and tie down/secure "stuff" on the bike and then at every stop double check to ensure everything is still secured.    No longer do I have to empty a saddle bag or T Bag to find that something I want.    Now, I simply put it all in the trailer and go.    The trailer is securable and can be padlocked to a sign or whatever to keep it from being borrowed while I'm out investigating the scenery.     Of course, anything can be stolen if the thief wants it badly enough but, I think the convenience speaks for itself.    

Yeah, it does take the fuel mileage down a notch or so but, not significantly and the bike is naked, handles well and allows me to really enjoy the journey.    Just something to consider.   The only problem is, one tends to forget that trailer is back there but, it'll remind you the first time you miss that pot hole with the bike but not with the trailer or, cut a corner too close.    Generally, once is enough to get and keep your attention.  

May I suggest "Mick-O-Pegs" to help relieve minor leg discomfort and possible cramping.

http://ridingiswonderful.com/id31.html

Mick O Pegs, one of the best additions I have put on my Valkyrie.   

[Black Pearl's Captain]

Im glad to see you ride often. Trips like this are not simply a matter of I have ridden for years.....
If you are not used to 400 mile or 8 hour rides, this is very ambitious. Count on at least 20% longer times riding than any maps tell you it will be.

10 hours in a car is nothing. 10 hours on a bike back to back are long days.....

Uhh he's 28, I'll bet he can handle 12-16 hour days day in day out. I can at 48.

[Oss]

Funny, but I find I am much sharper on a long bike day than
a long car day.  Perhaps because I am forced to walk around every few hours
and I am not stuck in air conditioning falling asleep

Please get a national park pass immediately and dont lose it

You have a back seat, put your bag on that back seat, it then is a full sized
backrest

this is what I mean   Pic at Stonehenge WWI memorial in background is Mt Hood over a hundred or so miles away



 A plastic garbage bag is a dandy rain cover, a few rope/web bungees
and a full size bungee are must haves as you may need them from time to time or if you break your kickstand spring like I did in Alabama in April

I have a trunk rack as you can see but found using the back seat lowers the center of gravity and makes the bike more stable in the wind.

On both of my coast to coast trips I was real happy NOT having the trailer. But I did not camp out anywhere preferring the motel and hot shower over being under the stars or in the rain and wind

Its your trip, as long as you have fun it will be terrific

edit

Yeah what Black Pearl said about Beartooth
took 16 from Keystone to 90 (you kind of have to ride it an hour or so)
to Ranchester then over 14 to Cody  sign for Chief Joseph then right turn for Beartooth
to Red Lodge. You stay overnite and ride back thru the pass and into Yellowstone down into the tetons or pick up north for Highway to the Sun in Glacier   LoloPass is a rush downhill for hour after hour along the river

[gordonv]

I didn't re-read, but it was mentioned about double darkside.

That reminder me about need tires and oil changes while on the road. Plan how far the tread on your tires will take you before you need to change them. Maybe change tires before the trip.

Oil changes, others have mentioned about buying a oil catcher, oil and filter at Walmart, change your oil in the parking lot, and turn the stuff back in at the auto center.

I would also recommend a AAA type service. GoldWing (& Valkyries) riders have a membership with AA service. My annual family membership is $80. Gives me a Gold Book with names of people who have offered help to others who are on the road.

I drive with this tire patch kit and an air compressor. Don't want to wait for service when I have a flate on the road. Pocket Tire Plugger, 2nd over (I bought 2 to get free shipping, and gave one to my brother as a Christmas gift)
http://www.stopngo.com/tire-pluggers/

[Black Pearl's Captain]

I'll make a rambling post as I look at the map.

If I was from Florida riding northwest I wouldn't miss Lolo pass and for not miss Beartooth pass. Beartooth comes along with Yellowstone. I personally would spend twice the time in Yellowstone than I would riding in California (spend a night if like wild mountains). Traffic totally sucks in Yellowstone, book a "particular" campsite now for Yellowstone if you know you want. If you don't (I doubt your plan is hard enough to do that) show up at the Bridge Bay campground at 8:45 am. and wait for the 9:00 mandatory check in time to elapse. It's the only time a walk-in will get a site in park. They have a huge tent camping area.

Like I said, don't miss Beartooth pass and get there before 1-2 because it's a long way to anywhere in the dark. From Yellowstone ride up to the sharp switchbacks in Montana, turn around and ride Chief Joesph highway to Cody.

If you make Inzane (you should, riding in the area is great) ride across northern Wyoming not southern. 16 from Cody to Buffalo is pretty darn scenic. Devils Tower is near Gillette Wy. on the way to Inzane.

Why would anyone cross Kansas riding to San Diego? I get the Arkansas portion but head straight across the top of OK (412 is nice) and right out the panhandle into NM. Ride west thru the Dry Cimmaron canyon on to Capulin NM (NM 456 & 325). Kenton OK then west on 456. There is some dirt but it's a good ride. Ride up the Capulin volcano then over to Raton NM. Ride north to Denver from there. I assume you want to see Denver (why???).

99% of all riders are "sorry" they didn't spend more time in the south half of Utah. Ride 12 from Torrey Utah to Bryce Canyon park. It's the best road in Utah. Ruby's Inn and RV has good priced camping right at Bryce Utah.

From Bryce hit Cedar Breaks to the west then back east on 14 and ride Zion east to west. Or hit the North rim of the grand canyon to the south before you go to Vegas. I'd do North Rim (or both). Ride back thru Zion from North Rim.

Ask Willow why you want to ride to Amboy California.

Are you used to the West? It's long miles between things out west. Do you have a standard tank?

[3fan4life]

Let me know when you will be riding through VA.

If I'm not working I'll be glad to share some wind with you.

[bludragon]

Do not forget to include the Beartooth Highway on your trip. Located on Great Divide between Montana and Wyoming

[mrider]

try Allstays app, just plug in any infor you want and it'll show you everything along what ever route you decide to take at the spur of the monent.......included gas stops food cheap places to camp and motels.....Me and brother fiddle used it last march on a 10 trip out to cali and back to tx worked damn well and is free!! good luck relax and if you see a road that peaks your interest just go for it have some fun.....remiember your still young enough that it really doesn't matter!! 

[live2ride]

LOTS OF GREAT INFO !!!! THANK YOU GUYS !!!!

I will check out Allstays (started using "furkot" for the planning and routing but its a little commercialized)

Captain, I thank you for criticizing my route... that is exactly the type of feedback I am looking for. The map I made is very general, and with your tips, I will now be able to tweak it precisely to make it the best possible route. I am very unfamiliar with the west and even less familiar with the north and central states. Your detailed post is very appreciated and I will now know which roads to look for when I make a detailed route.

bluedragon, thank you I will check it out.

Oss, I found the pass you mentioned, its not bad, $80. does that cover ALL national sites ? their website is not very specific, when I add it to the cart, they have "related products" on the bottom, so do I need those as well for the particular parks, or this one pass will cover all ?

http://store.usgs.gov/b2c_usgs/b2c/productdetail/(xcm=r3standardpitrex_prd&layout=0_1_3&uiarea=1)/.do?productkey=000000000000206946&scenario=basket&detailScenario=basket



Once again, Thank you all for awesome feedback and tips... It is extremely helpful (especially to one who has no experience of the caveats of such trips as well as the places and roads to ride and visit. please keep them coming (:

[sheets]

Hwy 001 in northern California and Oregon coast; As somebody said not much to see of the Oregon coast line. There are a few miles of spectacular beach and ocean view in the southern portion - Port Orford south. Ocean views in Oregon are by in large hit and miss. About the same in the far north of Calif.

After taking the Avenue of the Giants (scenic alternate to Hwy 101), Gas up in Garberville, then pick up Hwy 001 in Leggett. 25 miles +/- of twisty two lane through the woods before you break out onto the west coast of Cali. Miles and miles of ocean view from there south.

I prefer riding the coast, Oregon and California in the southbound direction, primarily because the wind typically blows out of the north. Traveling southbound you will have the wind at your back. It can get windy on the west coast. Why fight the wind if you don't have to. Also, southbound travels allow you to easily pull off the road to take in the views without crossing traffic. Fort Bragg is a good size town with all amenities. As you travel south, cruise the town of Mendocino for coffee or lunch.

Hwy 001 from Leggett to San Francisco is a slow scenic two lane road. Even with no traffic it is slow going, so you can soak it in and not risk running off the road. It is very unforgiving with no margin for error. Don't be in a hurry or have unrealistic deadlines to meet by the end of the day. 

Sounds like the ride of a life time. sheets   

[gordonv]

Forget exactly where, but Custor's last stand isn't too far away to the West of Spearfish. Was thinking of stopping by on the way to Inzane.

The Black Hills, and Mt Rushmore along with Crazy Horse when you are at Inzane.

If you are north of San Fran, I stayed in Healdsburg CA (Hwy 101). Many wineries stores there. Unusual for me, from BC, you need to pay for your tastings, $5 for 3 types (but they never held is to only 3, and they where sometimes almost a real drink), so $10 for my brother and I. We stayed just out of DT, and walk into town, and spend the afternoon there, drinking and eating. Couldn't even visit all the stores, was too drunk to continue walking and couldn't drink any more.

From between Crescent City CA, and Grants Pass OR (Hwy 199), there are some caves. I can't remember the names, but if interested I could look further into it. Central Oregon was fairly flat and un-eventful driving on I5. I would be more interested in following the coast.

Oregon. There are a couple of places I wouldn't mind visiting. Tillimook cheese factory in the North West. Close by or near Portland, there is 2 different flight museums. One of them has the Spruce Goose on display.

The road along the Columbia River is suppose to be nice, I'm sure the guys from Seattle WA (the Vermin) would be helpful in suggestions there.

I was also thinking of Crater Lake OR.

[IamGCW]

If you are handicap the park pass is free.  Seniors get a great discount as well.  As mentioned join us on the Florida board and get to one of the many rides.  Specifically check out James III fuel tank.  Perfect for the long trips.  I strapped 4 gallons (2 2 gallon cans) to the passenger floorboards.  There is also a belly tank option for Valks.

Towing a trailer allows you to carry stuff you'll never need, but gives you insurance.  Also it will affect your gas mileage.  If you drop the trailer while riding an area make sure you can lock it up. 

AAA Florida has a motorcycle option.  The option gives you better towing.  I carry paper maps for the chats along the way, but use the GPS for on the road.  I usually give the maps away as I go, there has always been someone needing a map.  Creating a city list made programming routes easier, just uploaded the list into the favorites (Garmin GPS).

Gil

[Willow]

Oss, I found the pass you mentioned, its not bad, $80. does that cover ALL national sites ?

A Parks Pass is worth its cost if you visit just a few parks.

Their description is a little unclear as to what it doesn't cover.  All US national parks entry fees are included.  Fees for some activities within the parks are not necessarily.  A few years ago we discovered that the parking fee at Mount Rushmore is not covered by the pass although logic would tell you that site should be included among national parks.  The person at the gate explained to us that the parking fee is not an entrance fee, this despite it was the only way to get into the site.  There are some places that you will automatically assume are part of the National Parks system that are not.  Be ready for those little surprises.

Traveling across the country you should visit several National Parks.  The pass will be well worth its cost and it's good for a year.

[..]

Its been a few days since I had a chance to read the last comment (real estate has been booming overwhelmingly), thank you for the GREAT TIPS.

I am trying to plan it out in the best possible way to make it to inZane... LOTS of planning... ugh...

So far I have the east side of my trip planned...


Any tips on where to camp or stay without breaking the bank ?

Is the Cherohala Skyway included on this route?

http://www.cherohala.org/

If you want some more road tips north of Atlanta to Asheville PM me.

[GiG]

Andrey:
You are in for a great trip 
You are welcome to stop by for a night of lodging when you pass through MI. I may get a chance to ride a bit with you.
Regarding: "the fact...going south (on the ocean side) considering the fact it will be one of my personal highlights of this trip, i am thinking of reversing it." ... Yes, north PCH to south will put you closer to the ocean - by 8'. Proximity to the ocean on PCH is not a concern.
You don't need a trailer riding solo, and will have a better time without one. Especially if you have no experience with one, a long  solo trip is no time to learn.
Along those lines, whatever mods you do, make sure you do at least 200 miles before the trip, so not to find out on the road your new mod's shortcoming (shakedown rides are the rule for distance riders).
Raymond's advice is spot on.
When you get tired, stop.
When stopping for the night, I like to roll through a town and take mental notes of the motels, restaurants, bars & try to pick one on the far side of town.
That way, you are less likely to get stuck in morning commute traffic on the way out. Pick a motel with restaurant within walking distance so you can leave the kickstand down.
Check all fluid levels every morning!
CHEERS
GiG

[Garry 2r's]

Looks like a great ride. Definitely add the extra driving lights. Some of us have put these on and work real well.  https://www.superbrightleds.com/moreinfo/mini-auxiliary-lights/2-round-10-watt-led-mini-auxiliary-work-light/1386/  I noticed you have rubber style valve stems you might consider changing them to the double nut style.  Have a safe trip and enjoy the scenery,( next time include MI) 

[..]

Just do it right and use these.

http://patchboy.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=P&Product_Code=17-562&Category_Code=6-3

Easy peasy.

[hbeck32]

I have plenty of 90 degree metal valve stems, pm me your address and I will mail you 2 next week free. I am working on making the trip with you. I have sent you 2 messages via Facebook messenger. LETS RIDE!!
When are you planning on leaving? I live in Central Alabama.

[JimmyG]

I am very interested in following your planning, route, etc. I am planning a trip also. I am meeting up with my step brother and we are heading out in June, around the 28th, to out  West and North, Dakotas, Wyoming, Utah, etc.  He is planning the route for us and I am doing calculations for fuel, stops, camping, etc.  We plan on minimum of 3 weeks. He has to work for a living, poor guy.   Be sure and keep us posted.


One tip I would like to suggest.  Many of the guys on the board are very helpful, as you have seen.  Many are also pretty darn  good mechanics and they would be a great resource for you if you got caught out somewhere with a problem. Although this is not likely, with a Valkyrie, still you need to be aware that anything can happen.  It would be great to have a network of these guys post their locations throughout the trip route and list what they could help with, if needed.   Just a thought.   Good luck planning,
Jim