MOTO ZEN for March
Posted on March 19th, 2010 by admin
On The Road Again
Posted on March 9th, 2010 by admin
It’s time for some Motorcycle Zen. I will be riding to Death Valley tomorrow to meet up with some California Riders for some Camping and Sightseeing. It will be my fourth trip to Death Valley via Motorcycle and now is the time of year to go before it gets hot!
I was planning to cut through Central New Mexico to I-40 but with storms rolling in from the Southwest, I am having to re-route further south. Just getting out of Texas is a monotonous journey on I-1o. You can see by the map image that
Above is my route. To check my progress go to my SPOT Satellite Tracker Shared Page if you want to see where I am during my 7 day ride. It’s 1421 miles from Texas Hill Country to Death Valley, Ca.
I will be riding my 2000 BMW 1150GS and once I clear N.M. it should be great weather ahead. Check back from time to time for updates and Blog’s if I can get service in these remote and semi-remote areas.
Day #1 goal is to reach Deming N.M. for the first night and then Vegas for night #2 for some 700 mile ride days.
Here is a picture from Rhyolite Ghost Town near Death Valley from 2007.
BE SEEN
Posted on March 5th, 2010 by admin
Get your tickets for the South Texas Motorcycle Expo and Stunt Show
Posted on February 25th, 2010 by admin
You can buy your advance Tickets at H.E.B.. You can also print get a $2.00 off coupon for use at the gate.
Is it cheaper to buy the $15.00 tickets in advance, or use the coupon at the gate? I E-mailed the Admin to STXM to find out.
Here is the link for the Coupon Just submit your email address to get your Coupon.
WW II Aircraft Carrier Color Footage
Posted on February 20th, 2010 by admin
We’ve all seen the recycled stock WW2 documentary footage in the old War Movies.
Here is a link to some great and rare color footage, most even I haven’t seen.
Just click on the image of the Pykrete Aircraft Carrier. What is a “Pykrete” Aircraft Carrier?………………Google it!
South Texas Motorcycle Expo and Stunt Show
Posted on February 20th, 2010 by admin
Yes folks, the 7th Annual South Texas Motorcycle Expo and Stunt Competition is coming to San Antonio, March 19 - 21st. Sounds like a good reason to ride and see some spectacular stunts and maybe some good mishaps! Click on the pic to learn more.
Two Wheeled Texans 5th Annual Pie Run
Posted on February 11th, 2010 by admin
Here is my take on this great Ride to Eat.
The Pie Run
by
Zeke
Through the Two Wheeled Texas (TWT) Forum I learned about a ride called the “5th Annual Pie Run”. I had been lurking on the TWT Forum for the last year but hadn’t participated in any of their rides. The “Pie Run” involved food and riding, so I was in.
Apparently, the Admins for TWT had started riding to the “Koffee Kup” Cafe in Hico, Tx five years ago for some pie,tp kick tires and swap some lies. Every year the participation grew, pretty much the same evolution as any good “Ride to Eat”. There was no cost, other than what you would eat and fuel. The TWT Admins even got sponsors to donate gifts for a free raffle.
In my effort to locate the ultimate eating spot and find adventure, I put out the information to our Chapter. My co-rider Cecilia Roberts was in and I got several definite maybes from WagDaddy, Jarhead, Dave Murray and a friend named Paul Cadran.. With the recent cold weather spell, I was sure it was going to be just Cecilia and I. As the time grew near, Dave Murray called “No Joy”having a schedule conflict. At the 11th hour, I got a voice mail from Paul Cadran after he looked at his thermometer deciding he was better off sleeping in bed. Plan “A” was to meet up at the Country Store, in Briggs, Tx on Hwy 183 on Jan 30th at 0900. The store has coffee, commodes and fuel. I also hear they have good hamburgers but haven’t tried them yet.
Cecilia and I donned our winter riding gear and we rendezvoused with two shadowy figures at the country store, WagDaddy and Jarhead. I couldn’t really say they looked happy but they appeared enthusiastic. I grabbed some water and my morning “Cup of Joe”, filled one tank, drained the other and we were off. The morning route to Hico was simple, get to Hico as fast as we could to get get through the cold and make the 1100 meet up time. We would take a more scenic route back when it warmed up but the joke was on me because it never warmed up. The thermometer on the my bike read 29 degrees when we left Briggs.
From Hwy 183 to Hwy 281 the route was a no brainer. as Hwy 281 dead ends at the front door of the Cafe. The ride was pleasantly cold even but even with my heated gear I was cold! I couldn’t help but think how cold WagDaddy and Jarhead were and what the wind chill factor was. I wanted to get a second look at the coffee I drank earlier so we stopped at a gas station in Hamilton. I thought it was prudent to get WagDaddy and Jarhead to down some hot chocolate to keep their body core temperature up. With just 22 miles to go, this was a wise decision as we warmed up from miserable, to uncomfortable.
After our short break we completed the last few miles to find a parking lot full of Bikes. I recognized a White Gold Wing with a Blue Knights sticker on its trunk. It belongs to a Border Patrolman named Dave (FJR Bandit), whom I had meet at one of my Long Distance Rider meets in Deming NM. Dave rode to San Antonio the previous night to link up with some other riders. Dave and his friends left San Antonio at 0600 and made their ride in. All in all, it looked like there were about 70 motorcycles in the parking lot. WagDaddy mentioned that it felt like he had a flat spot on his tires the last few miles but there was nothing apparent.
Koffee Kup Cafe, Hico, Tx
The other kind of Texas Chili
We had arrived a little late but it prevented us from having to wait for a table. We kicked a few tires and went inside the Cafe. I located Dave the Border Patrol guy eating a bowl of Chili and we exchange salutations. I quickly rejoined our group as we prepared to order our meals. Since I am searching for the Ultimate Burger, I had to sample their Burger along with a cup of Chili, Cecilia had the Beef Tips (Special), WagDaddy had the Chicken Fried Steak and Jarhead had the Chili.
Shortly after sitting down, Terry and Chuck, TWT Admins introduced himself and welcomed us. Terry took out names for a raffle. Part way through the meal, WagDaddy was informed he was a raffle winner. WagDaddy left the warmth of our table to claim his prize, which was a Motorcycle trickle charger. Not bad! Of course, what would a Pie Run be without pie? I had Cecilia order a whole Key Lime Pie to take to a dinner party later that night.
After filling out bellies WagDaddy and Jarhead topped off their fuel tanks at the gas station across the street. WagDaddy asked me to ride his bike to see what I thought about his tire. As I rode forward WagDaddy said “I see the problem!”. I looked at his tire, which had a 6 inch long cut on the edge of his tread. It still held air but it wasn’t ride-able. See what I mean, every rides an adventure, especially with WagDaddy.
Some people have good luck, some people have bad luck, some people have both. Doug (WagDaddy) winning a raffle prize!
The good kind of “Texas Chili”
If you are not familiar with Hico, there are no Motorcycle repair shops. WagDaddy called his better half, Dianna, who was enjoying a day away from WagDaddy. While WagDaddy was about to inform Dianna that she would have to interrupt her shopping, grab the truck, trailer and drive 120 miles to pick him up, I decided to have a look around. I found a motorcycle gear store on 281 at the north end of town. I went inside a found an older woman carrying a Pomeranian dog. She said the only people who did work on Motorcycles was a custom painter who painted pin striping on Motorcycles. She pointed to a business card holder with his card and after scouring the streets of Hico, I returned to the gas station.
I told WagDaddy to call the number which was worth a shot, there was nothing to loose. Listening to WagDaddy’s half of the conversation, I learned that the guy had a Metzler tire which ironically would fit WagDaddy’s Road King but it had a “White Wall. For $30 under the retail of the tire, WagDaddy’s tire could be changed and we could be on our way. We all followed WagDaddy to the obscure location as he limped for 7 miles down country road 220. In about an hour WagDaddy had his new tire and we were back on the road.
We had to retrace our route back since we were already running late for our dinner. Although we had an appointment, a Blue Knight never leaves his Wing Man. In retrospect, had we stayed home we would have been cozy and warm but we wouldn’t have had the experience of scrounging tires in Hico with WagDaddy.
Like the sign says, “Pie Fixes Everything”………..
………….So does a good Mechanic!!!
Cooking on the go!
Posted on February 11th, 2010 by admin
On the go but what a fresh home cooked meal when you reach your destination? Check out the “Muff Pot” made to put on a Snowmobile muffler. I am going to order one and try it out. Just click on the picture to learn more and order one.
I am ordering one and will do a product review as soon as I get mine!
MOVE OVER AMERICA!
Posted on February 8th, 2010 by admin
Too many times I have had close calls while on Traffic stops from motorists who drive too fast or even speed while passing stopped emergency vehicles or accidents scenes. I even had a truck mirror brush the back of my uniform shirt on one stop, leaving its paint transfer on my back.
I am all for new Laws that pertain to idiots since you can’t shoot em for some reason.
Find out about the laws in your states and be more aware of whats going on along the roads in your state. Click on the picture to learn more.
Gray Eagles Film P-51 Mustang
Posted on February 2nd, 2010 by admin
I got this link from friend of my Dad’s, Charlie Warren, who served with him during WW2 in the 351st Bomb Group. The link will take you to a film by Chris Wood. The Gray Eagles Foundation is dedicated to preserving the memory of the greatest generations and carry on their legacy.As you watch the film clip you will get what it is all about.
Click on the picture of the “Cadillac of the Sky” and enjoy.
WW2 Slide Show “Iwo Jima”
Posted on February 2nd, 2010 by admin
Here is a great slide show of WW2 photographs taken on the Island of Iwo Jima, with a couple of pictures I have never seen published before. Those would include the aftermath of a bloody attack by the Japanese behind the American lines on the housing tents for Air Force and other support personnel.
Just click on the picture of the Memorial which now adorns the top of Mt. Suribachi. Special thanks to Keith Jackson for the link.
Edwards Air Force Base “AIR SHOW”
Posted on January 28th, 2010 by admin
Here is a series of great Aviation photographs from Bernard Zee, taken at the 2009 Edwards Air Force Base Air Show. To see more of the great pictures click on the picture of the B-2 Stealth Cycle. You can also order prints of Bernard’s work, if you see one you just gotta have.
Click on the picture of the B-2 Stealth Motorcycle and enjoy!
North to Alaska!
Posted on January 28th, 2010 by admin
In June, I am riding to Alaska for my first “Hyder Seek” Adventure. I could sit here and type a whole lot more about this event but I am too lazy. So click on the picture to find out what it’s all about.
Two Wheeled Texans Forum 5th Annual Pie Run Hico, Tx Jan 30th
Posted on January 28th, 2010 by admin
Riding and eating, it don’t get no better than that! Meet up in Hico Tx with others who feel the same way. If your local, meet at the fuel station on Hwy 183 in Briggs, Tx and you can ride up with us. Meet time is 0915 hrs, on the road by 0945. Get there a little early if you need to empty the bladder and fill it with a Cup of Joe. Click on the post to go to the TWT Forum for information and the Thread.
Two Wheeled Texans
Posted on January 27th, 2010 by admin
There are a lot of folks who ride in Texas. Texas has Plenty of roads and from where I live, it takes a whole days riding just to get out of the state. “Two Wheeled Texans” (TWT) is an excellent Forum and resource and a good way to meet other folks who ride. This coming weekend they will be hosting their 5th Annual Pie Run to Hico, Tx, on Sat Jan 30th. I’m going to go check it out for my first time.
If you live in Texas, or are going to ride to Texas, you might want to take a look around. Just click on the image and check it out for yourself.
Kawasaki “Let The Good Times Roll”
Posted on January 10th, 2010 by admin
Here is a vintage commercial that ran in the 70’s, when I first got introduced to Motorcycling. I always remembered the slogan and jingle. Just click on the image to enjoy a blast from the past.
1966 Kawasaki F-1
Motorcycle Cannonball Run
Posted on January 10th, 2010 by admin
One of the first Harley Davidson Motorcycles, Circa 1903
This event is the real deal. Can you imagine doing an endurance ride, Coast to Coast on a Pre-1916 Motorcycle? Can you even imagine riding one? Well here is an event for the eccentric and the tough. Click on the image to visit the website and learn more about this unique adventure.
The HONDA Song
Posted on January 9th, 2010 by admin
Corney but kinda cute. Click on the picture to enjoy the Hondel’s and their Honda Song.
Nimble Goldwing
Posted on December 28th, 2009 by admin
Practice makes perfect. Watch this guy ride his Wing to the edge of its performance envelop.
Road Conditions Quiz
Posted on December 28th, 2009 by admin
Test yourself to see how Road Savvy you are with this quiz from www.Motorcycle.com
Just click on the pic.
Nothing Like A Nice Winter Ride
Posted on December 28th, 2009 by admin
Here is a cool and I mean “COOL” YouTube video from Alaska. Enjoy the ride on the Dalton Highway!
New Machine
Posted on December 20th, 2009 by admin
I just added a new Machine to my fleet today. I had my friend Bob ride it home from the dealership and I haven’t had time to ride it yet, so my review is pending. Can you guess what it is? Here is the cockpit view.
Here is the right side view.
Wassup?
Posted on December 18th, 2009 by admin
Well, I am trying to finish up some ride stories after a hard drive crash. In the meantime, I added a new joke on my Humor page and a new recipe for “Super Chicken” in the Food section.
Audie Murphy Petition for the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Posted on December 18th, 2009 by admin
Bring yourself up to speed and read my page about Audie Murphy here: Audie Murphy
There is a movement to petition President Obama to award Audie the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award. If you agree that he should be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, please sign the online petition. Disregard any prompts for you to register for anything, or to receive any news lettersetc and just sign the petition. You should receive a thank you note as verification. If you have any questions, shoot me an email.
Thanks for your support!
Lt. Audie Leon Murphy
Oh, there is gossip out there that the rights to Remake the Movie “To Hell and Back” have been purchased and is about two years out from being a reality. It will be done along the lines of the Movie “Aviator” about Howard Hughes and will cover Audie’s life from childhood, War and beyond.
Farwell to a Friend: Day #2
Posted on December 3rd, 2009 by admin
I awoke and called Cecilia to find out the latest Doppler Data for El Paso. Cecilia said it looked like several small weather cells were clearing the area moving N/E, the same went for Deming and clearing near Tucson. With the latest weather report, I decided to move on hoping for the best and that I could push through to Tucson and miss these intermittent squalls. It was now about 0900 hours, Central Time.
I made my way north on I-10 to El Paso and as I reached the city limits, I saw the remnants of the recent rain but the sky was clearing. This got my hope up that all would be well down the road. As I reached Las Cruces NM, the same evidence of the recent rain was on the roadway with some light sprinkling. I topped off my tank and called Cecilia again. The latest Doppler images again showed medium and large squalls moving N/E with threats of hail. As I hit the road towards my next way point, Deming, I thought I would luck out and miss any serious weather altogether. I would grab lunch in Deming and recharge for my push west. My goal for the day was to at least make Phoenix Az.
As I reached Deming and pulled off the Interstate, all hell broke loose. It started to hail so I made a bee line to the Denny’s just around the corner. It was starting to get cold so after my brunch, I would put on my heated gear, an Aerostich Windstopper Kanetsu Vest.
WINDSTOPPER Electric Vest
After a bowl of soup and salad, I buttoned up. I left my Elk Skin Roper Gloves on. They are not insulated but they were dry. I always carry a second pair of gloves, so I had a pair of winter insulated gloves as a back up. I hopped on I-10 once again but this time in a down pour. All was going well for the first 60 miles with a light rain but the temperature was continuing to drop. My thermometer was reading 52 degrees in Deming but it had now dropped to 42.
All of a sudden a torrential downpour ensued and the sky grew a darkish gray. Up ahead, I could see some distress and visibility decreased with what looked like a light fog. There were cars on the center median and on both the east and westbound shoulders with two tow trucks and a Border Patrol vehicle on the center divider. In an instant, the rain turned to 1/2″ hail and temperature dropped to 39 degrees. I immediately slowed down from 80 to 45 and moved into the slow lane. I was in front of a pack of cars with a big rig behind me. Fortunately he slowed down too, perceiving what was to come.
An SUV (Lincoln Navigator) passed me on my left, continuing at the speed limit of 80. As soon as the Navigator passed me, it started veering out of control. First it veered towards the right and I saw the brake lights come on. The driver over corrected then began fishtailing and skidding towards the center median and a tow truck and Border Patrol Vehicle. I thought I was going to be witness to a catasrophic collision, with the SUV skidding into the disabled cars on the median. The driver then steered right, again over correcting and went off the highway, down the embankment and began sliding sideways. I watched in amazement as the vehicle failed to roll over. What a lucky ’son of a Gun”. It was still skidding as I passed by it. All the traffic behind began slowing to a stop. I feared stopping, afraid that someone would skid into me from behind, so I kept moving, now at 25 mph. The road was slick with frozen ball bearings and I feared that if I stopped I would end up falling over with all the hail balls on the ground.
I kept checking my left side view mirror. At my 7 o’clock position and Camero was fishtailing, also skidding out of control and went onto the center median and overturned. I focused straight ahead and thought about the idiots in their cages as I continued on. This sudden Hail Storm lasted for about 10 miles and then became a light rain and then the temperature began to climb back up into the low 50’s. I made it to Lordsburg where you usually fear unexpected Dust Storms but with the percipitation, there was no dust to fear. I had a strange sense being victorious over what Mother Nature had just thrown at me. With my sense of invincibility, I pushed on defying the Gods.
With my left hand bruised from the Hail and both hands and neck chilled from the cold wet air, I donned my Balacava and put on my insulated gloves, as my Elk skin gloves were thoroughly soaked. Fully prepared for any further weather and warming back up, I got back on I-10 and continued towards Tucson. As I worked my way west, the skys started to clear and I got a few breif glimpses of the sun. I pushed my way through Tucson and north to Phoenix without further incident but even with the heated vest, I was chilled.
Doppler Satellite Image of the Storm. Severity chart is along right margin. Purple area east if Lordsburg, is where the other vehicles ran off the roadway.
As I pulled into the parking lot of the Best Western Tempe, Az, I noticed a Waffle House Restaurant. I immediately began thinking of their Hash Browns, for which they offer various toppings. After checking in, I would feast on a Breakfast for Dinner.
Click the above to check out Waffle House.
If you’ve been to a Waffle House, which are normally found in the Southern U.S. you will become an instant fan. A no frills breakfast can always be found with unusually sides and CHEAP too! For $3 and change, you can get a triple order of Hash Browns, topped with various toppings from onions to chili. If you leave there still hungry after dishing out $5.00 you have some serious dietary issues.
For my dinner I got the two egg breakfast with a triple order of hash browns, smoothered (onions) and toppped (chili), and orange juice and coffee for $6.82.
Hash Brown Menu
I couldn’t finish my Taters but felt fortunate to be in a land of plenty, where I could enjoy such a “Gut Bomb”. With belly full and the worst weather wise behind me, I was looking at continuing the ride. I retired back to my room and saw News reports of snow on the Grapevine in California, along my proposed route along I-5. As I whip out my lap top consulting the National Weather Service, the Weather resource on my Website and Microsoft Streets and Trips, I started to develop plans A, B and C for day #3. With 1,000 miles of my 1,800 mile ride done, I was still on course and on time despite my brush with Mother Nature.
Day #3…………….
Farwell to a Friend Day#1: Texas to California
Posted on December 3rd, 2009 by admin
Last Saturday afternoon, I left what was then a sunny Texas on ride with a Mission, to attend a funeral of a friend, Roger Kellman. Roger was a comrade at the Police Department and a fellow outdoorsman who died unexpectedly at age 48 from a Heart Attack. Roger was two years from his retirement but didn’t make it, so I felt compelled to pay my respects.
In planning my ride, I was faced with looming winter storms threatening South Cental New Mexico, with foul weather moving into Central Tx. I could plan on being trapped between the two weather fronts but if I could bust through one, I would leave the other behind. As this was not so much a pleasure ride to cover the 1,800 miles to my former stomping grounds as quickly and safely as possible. My plan was to ride the giant slab from Central Texas by taking Interstates 10 and 5 to the S.F. Bay Area. Day #1 was to ride from Florence, Tx to El Paso, so 500 miles plus change the first day, would get me out of Texas.
I made my way out of Texas “Hill Country” via SR 29 towards Junction, which is where I would pick up Interstate 10 to a long ride west. I was accompanied by my friend Merritt Frances, who would escort me a short distance. The weather was fantastic, being in the low 70’s so I hoped it would the sign of things to come.
Merritt and I rode to Mason Texas(92 miles) and arrived around 1300 hrs. Being Thanksgiving weekend, the choices of eateries were few but we settle for some BBQ at Cooper’s. I highly recommend it but unless you are passing through, a motorcycle rider, or a hunter, there is not much cause to go to Mason. Cooper’s is no frills but it seemed like most of the order were to go, for their home made bread and sausage. After a quick lunch, Merritt and I parted and I continued on.
Cooper’s BBQ Mason, Tx
I had been watching the doppler radar on my IPhone so I knew I would be facing decent weather until reaching El Paso, Tx, where winter weather warnings were in effect for the weekend, threatening rain and hail with possibilities of ice on the road. I made good time and the ride was not remarkable since it was all on the interstate but as I neared Van Horn Tx, the temperature had dropped to the low 50’s (wind chill about 40 degrees) and was getting dark. I arrived in Van Horn around 1900 hrs, tired and cold, opting to have some soup and salad at a local Diner. I didn’t catch the name but found a diners attached to the Chevron Staion on Golf Course Rd south of I-10. The soup of the day was Chicken Noodle and it warmed me well.
The weather report indicated that winter weather was moving into South Central New Mexico, right over my route from El Paso to Tucscon Az. This would be 500 miles of hell if it developed. I knew if I could at least reach Tucson, weather to California would be fairly smooth sailing. Watching the doppler on the phone, I called my girlfriend Cecilia and had her get on the NOAA weather site for the latest satellite images. Cecilia said that some small cells were forming of El Paso, which was about 100 miles from my present location. I asked two Truckers in the restaurant who had just come from El Paso what the weather was like, they said it was clear. It was now 2000 hrs, so I decided to push onto El Paso.
With my Aerostich suit and winter weather gear on, I hit I-10 for El Paso. Well as I got about 10 miles out of Van Horn it started to rain. I not wanting to ride the next hour and a half into the rain, with temperatures dropping into the 40’s, in the dark with the threat of hail and ice looming, I decided to call it a night. I made a u-turn and headed back to Van Horm. I figured if I have to ride through a storm, I would rather do it during the day light. Tomorrow would be another day and maybe the threats of foul weather would clear. Boy was I wrong.
Day #1 486 miles from Florence to Van Horn, Tx. This doesn’t count the 40 mile turn around back to Van Horn.
I tried to get a room at the Holiday Inn Express, since the Best Western in Van Horn went out of business. I knew they had Wi-Fi which I needed to get my real time weather info for my route planning. Of course the Holiday Inn was full but was referred to the Hampton Inn. Hampton Inn’s are usually reliable so it seemed like a good substitute. There were vacancies galore but was informed the Motel was no longer with the Hampton family and that there was no internet service there. Tired and cold, I took the room and figured I would deal with things in the morning.
Freshly showered and warm, I contemplated turning around and heading for home or continuing on, hoping to skirt the bad weather on Day#2. With no internet, I watched the weather channel for the latest weather information.
If you have ever been in Van Horn, I cannot really think of a good Metaphor to described it but I will try. It is located along I-10 in the middle of the West Texas desert. It’s not close to anything of interest and lies in the middle of nowwhere. If you were going to give Texas and enema you would stick the tube in Van Horn.
Day #2……..stay tuned.
DEMING VETERANS DAY GATHERING by JIM SMITH and…..
Posted on November 24th, 2009 by admin
Jim Smith is a GWRRA Member wtih California Chapter CA2Q. Here is his version of his first Veterans Day Gathering in Deming. Click on the picture for more.
Here are some more takes on the event. Click on the picture!
My Tribute to Audie Murphy
Posted on November 20th, 2009 by admin
Who is Audie Leon Murphy? If you don’t know, you have a duty to find out!
Click on Audie’s picture to visit my special page.
Home Sweet Home
Posted on November 13th, 2009 by admin
Okay folks, I am back from a 5 day 1900 Mile ride through west Texas and New Mexico. This included a Veteran’s Day Gathering/BBQ of Long Distance Riders in Deming. I am currently working on the ride story and uploading the pics which I hope to share in the next couple of days.
Tomorrow, I will be taking my Sweetheart on a B-17 ride at Georgetown Airport. I will have a little blurb on that too with some pictures. It will be my third flight in a B-17.
Check it out here:
Back at ya soon!
Be a Two Percenter
Posted on November 5th, 2009 by admin
Are you a Two Percenter? Less than 2% of Americans are licensed Motorcycle riders. The same goes for the percentage of our population that fly aircraft, sky dive and mountain climb. Motorcycle riding requires one to have coordination, good judgment and to posses fine motor skills in order to master it safely. Not everyone is cut of to ride and frankly I’m glad, otherwise the road would be a lot more crowded. I have friends that don’t ride and shouldn’t ride and I recognize their limitations, so I don’t encourage them. I just wouldn’t want to see them get hurt.
I take great pleasure in going out on a ride on the weekends in lieu of sitting home watching TV, watching other people having fun. I can go out and make new discoveries and I am always meeting someone new. Like a wise man said, “I never met a stranger on a motorcycle”.
No other form of travel gets you there quicker, while you experience the feel of the road as it winds and undulates underneath you, as you traverse over the varying terrain. From the inside of a car, you can’t experience the velocity as the whips over your body, the smell of the foliage, the unrestricted views and the thrill of a powerful machine.
I often feel blessed on a long road trip while I am fueling up and look over at a Father/Husband, pumping fuel at the next island and starring at my machine with envy in his eyes. With a nod and a cordial “Nice bike” comment, I can see that he is imprisoned in his own mind. Wishing he could escape his nagging wife, while his kids bounce off the car interior like excited Protons and Neutrons. You can just see it in their faces, as I ride off with a smirk on mine.
As I get ready for another ride, I feel truly blessed that I can enjoy such an activity. If you ride, you are part of an Elite crowd which sets you apart from the average Joe. People look at you when you ride. You experience it every time you stop at an intersection, all eyes are on you as the “Cager’s” look out of their fish bowls, mouths pulsating as they breath each others expended air.
So enjoy your next ride and think about how lucky you are. Besides, it is also good therapy. It’s cheaper than a Psychiatrist although sometimes, it may take two tanks of gas to clear your head.
Maybe, I’ll see you one the road soon!
RICH AND JIM’S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE
Posted on October 29th, 2009 by admin
Read about Jim Smith’s and Rich Sciacquai’s latest ride. Rich and Jim are friends and members of GWRRA’s Chapter CA2Q in San Ramon, Ca. If you can’t get away from your home or desk, read about some folks who can and did.
Click on the image and enjoy!
I also have a link to Jim’s Personal Web page on my “Links Page“.
BLUE STAR MOTHERS
Posted on October 21st, 2009 by admin
No matter how far down you put your head in the sand, our country is at War! Regardless of your political views about the War or the Military, you have the duty to help support the Men and Women who fight for you. While you are safe and snug at home with your families, selfless Americans are putting their personal lives on hold and risking life and limb so you can go about your daily business.
You can send tax deductible cash contributions or send the troops goods and sundries. Do your duty. For more information, visit the Blue Star Mothers website and see how you can help. Just click on the image and learn how you can get a warm and fuzzy feeling.
Below is a list of items that are being requested to send to our troops.
Coffee, tea, creamer packets, sugar and Splenda packets
Baby Wipes
feminine products
Chapstick
hand lotions
shampoos
conditioner
hand sanitizer
liquid laundry soap
foot powder
Q tips
nail clippers
disposable razors
kleenex
wash cloths
Ziploc bags
batteries, all sizes
bug spray
duct tape
disposable cameras
insoles
sweat bands
harmonicas
kazoos
writing paper, envelopes and pens
thick socks
Small sizes of the above are best….so they can be shared among more people, and are easier to mail.
……and the snacks….cookies, hard candies, jerky, etc are ok, but some troops ask for healthy snacks…nuts, fruit leather, dried fruit, fruit cups, microwave soups, etc. microwave popcorn, tuna/crackers snack packs are huge! and of course, cash contributions to help cover postage are always welcome.
OSH KOSH by GOSH
Posted on October 21st, 2009 by admin
Take a look at this You Tube video of the Osh Kosh Air Show. Just click on the image and enjoy!
TRIP PLANNING MAPS & Weather
Posted on October 7th, 2009 by admin
I’ve created a page with helpful map sites and weather for trip planning. You can get all your resources from one page. Links will open up in a new tab so you can keep all the windows open while you are planning. Check it out.
NEW LINKS
Posted on October 6th, 2009 by admin
Don’t forget to check my Link Page if you need resources on and for the road. Just click on the images and visit my Links Page some some excellent resources.
Need a Campground? Try the Campground Map.
Need ideas for a ride in Texas? Try “Hill Country Cruising”.
VETERANS DAY GATHERING Deming New Mexico Nov 7th
Posted on October 5th, 2009 by admin
It’s that time of year again, when Long Distance Riders gather at Don Camerons home in Deming New Mexico, to honor Veterans, eat some good BBQ, play games and swap lies. The cost is a measily $10. You do not have to be a Veteran to enjoy a great journey and meet riders from all over the country.
To register or for more information click on the image below. I hope to see you there and if you are from the Austin area and want to join me on the ride there, let me know.
WW2 and MILITARY AVIATION PRODUCTS
Posted on September 26th, 2009 by admin
Check out my Amazon aStore for books, DVD’s and other products available through Amazon. Just click on the pic!
BEEN THERE, DONE THAT
Posted on September 26th, 2009 by admin
Here is a humorous short story from the GL1800 Forum. I can relate.
========= I’m a Idiot ===================
Went and ran some errands today 30 miles from home.
I got talking to a friend I meet in the store about fishing and hunting.
I got talking to a friend I meet in the store about fishing and hunting.
He showed me a big sale they were running on brooms, awesome deal.
I bought two, walked out and forgot I rode the Goldwing shopping…………
What a idiot. The store was nice enough to let me return them.
Reminds me the day my wife came home with a new broom, and I suggested the next time she should buy a “two seater”.
It took a good week before I could come back in the house.
====================================
Click on this link to view the forum and original posting.
MOTORCYCLING Stuff from Amazon.com
Posted on September 25th, 2009 by admin
Check out this great selection of Motorcycling Books, DVD’s, Gear, Tools and other related products you can purchase at Amazon.com. Just click on the book and start shopping!
RENO AIR RACES
Posted on September 18th, 2009 by admin
Well I am off to the Reno Air Races and will be back in a few days. Flying, not riding though. See you when I get back.
Here is a link: 
IRON BUTT RALLY FINISH
Posted on September 11th, 2009 by admin
For the wrap up and results of the Iron Butt Rally, click on the logo.
NEW LINKS
Posted on September 11th, 2009 by admin
Check out my Links Page for some new links and a reminder of other helpful sites.
Joy Dutta’s Personal Blog and Susan Coles personal site. Great resources for all things Gold Wing. If they don’t have an answer for you, they will find one.
The Honda Gold Wing Meet Up Group of Georgetown. A great group of people who love to ride and eat.
DAY 10 OF THE IRON BUTT RALLY
Posted on September 4th, 2009 by admin
Click on the Logo for and update.
NEW GEAR
Posted on September 4th, 2009 by admin
Well after my last two rides, I suffered some casualties in the way of worn out gear. So I just ordered replacements. Since I believe in ATGATT (All The Gear All The Time) and with the miles I ride, I tend to go through gear much faster than the average rider. I will talk about the gear gone by and offer some opinions as to how they performed.
When looking for gear I usually go to all the local dealers to look at the latest models and try them on for fit and sizing. Then I look for the cheapest price and order online. In the case of the Phoenix jacket, Georgetown Honda had them on sale, so the rack price was what I paid for my original Phoenix in 2001, $104.
The main zipper to my Joe Rocket “Phoenix” mesh jacket finally broke. I bought this jacket the first year they came out with the Phoenix line around 2001 and it has served me well. In hot weather I always ride with my skin protected from the sun’s rays, so having a perforated jacket actually keeps me cooler and still allows the evaporative cooling process to take place. I give this jacket high ratings. I opt for the lighter colors, which do not absorb the sun’s heat so readily. Lighter colors also make you more visible and are about 10 to 15 degrees cooler to the touch when left out in the sun. Below you can see the first model Phoenix which I am wearing, compared to the newer model.
Above is the older Phoenix jacket on its last trip this August near Death Valley. The pants I am wearing are mesh made by Olympia Motorcycle Gear. Either the Olympia and Joe Rocket Phoenix pants are good quality options in mesh pants. I replaced the Phoenix pants with the Olympia after the crotch wore out, after 4 years.
Note: The new model Phoenix Jacket up above is more stylish, they added black fabric which collects heat in the hot desert sun which is retarded. Seems like everything made for motorcycling has to be black, which has no place in in the hot sun. “I ride because I love to ride. I don’t ride to be loved. “ Which means form and function takes place over fashion sense.
My helmet, the White Nolan N-Com is over a year old but has seen its better days. The first day I wore the N-Com the vent covers on the jaw piece of the helmet popped off. The sun visor of the N-Com is also located on the outside which collects bugs when not in use, so when you want it, you end up looking at the bowels of all the bugs you killed. I preferred the inside mounted flip down sun shields like my Schuberth Helmet which is similar to modern Pilots Helmets. The N-Com proved it’s ability to handle heavy rain for hours on end and it easily accommodates head phones and commo gear. The Nolan is an adequate helmet but I couldn’t wait to replace it.
The Schuberth Helmets are my favorite but are hard to get except in Germany and Europe. You can still find some in the U.S. but the tend to all be in the small or non-typical sizes.
The Schuberth C2 left, the best helmet made if you can get them. The Nolan on the right. Nolan stopped short of making a good helmet so they lost me as a customer. The two vent tabs on the front of the jaw are what fell out on my first ride with the Nolan.
The Scorpion EXO-900.
I bought the Scorpion “Transformer” EXO-900 Helmet. A versatile helmet, in has an inside mounted sun shield. Starting at $269, it is also a good value. It has an air pump so you can adjust the comfort level of the interior padding. It is also a very quite helmet, reducing air noise significantly and is less noisy than the Nolan. My views will surface as I use the helmet more but I like it much better than the Nolan. The Scorpion is also Commo gear friendly and is set up for easy installation. The Scorpion performed well in severe weather but most folks don’t ride in the weather I do. Some water got on the inside surface of the face shield during one storm, which was irritating because I couldn’t wipe it off. The Scorpion also has an adjustable air bladder, so you can custom fit the helmet to fit your head. The ventilation is excellent and is this Helmet is now my preferred choice.
My gloves, the Elk Skin “Ropers” from Aerostich can’t be beat for hot weather gloves, they are supple and their light color does not absorb the suns heat. For some reason, gear manufacturers do not make desert compatible or color appropriate clothing for hot weather, making all gloves black which means HEAT! The Ropers are not insulated and offer marginal crash protection but do offer comfort. They have a built in rain squeegee to wipe off your face shield and will transfer dye to your hands when wet. Although these gloves don’t offer knuckle protection, I love em. This was a no brainer, order more of the same for $39!
The Roper from Aerostich.
My AlpineStar boots just wore out on the gear shift protection pad. It can be repaired for a few bucks by a local cobbler but I wanted a good hot weather boot. I chose the Sidi Champion Air Boot. Hard to find, I finally found a pair on EBay. I like the quality of Sidi Boots but they are pricey. The jury is out until I have a chance to wear them and test them out.
The Sidi Champion Air Boot, $185 USD.
The bottom line for me when it comes to riding gear is needs to be functional. I’m not riding around to be popular or win a fashion contest. I want to be comfortable but at the same time well protected from the elements and the road. Through my experience I have also learned that quality is important. When you skimp on something as important as motorcycle gear, there can be a price to pay later either through frustration or injury.
Although I had to shell out a few bucks for new summer gear for now, it should last be another 5-8 years and help me enjoy more good times on the road. If you have any question, just drop me a line.
“It is only in adventure that some people succeed in knowing themselves - in finding themselves.”…André Gide
A DECK OF CARDS
Posted on September 4th, 2009 by admin
Although I am not the religious sort, I am a sucker for a good story, especially if it involves Soldiers from the WW2 era. Here is a story told by Tex Ritter. If you don’t know who Tex his, he is the father of actor John Ritter and was a star in his own right.
Click on this pic for the story.
The Best of Osh Kosh in 5 minutes
Posted on September 4th, 2009 by admin
The odd-looking bird seen here is the Virgin Mothership Eve, the aircraft that will carry Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo rocket aloft for a midair launch of tourists into orbit. Also known as the WhiteKnightTwo, “Eve” has a wingspan of 140 feet. The SpaceShipTwo will be mounted between the twin fuselages.
Click on the photo to view a You Tube Video of last years event. Kudos to slickhutto!