I’ve been everywhere, man
I’ve been everywhere, man.
I’ve been everywhere, man.
Crossed the deserts bare, man.
I’ve breathed the mountain air, man.
Of travel I’ve had my share, man.
I’ve been everywhere.
I’ve been to; Reno, Chicago, Fargo … (Johnny Cash)
I made a quick stop to see number two son at work, then my Mom (who cried) then home to number one son, pets, friends and neighbors. What’s next? (An oil change, rear tire change, tune up and … who knows.) But for tonight - it's a cozy bed and bathroom in house, no flashlight required.
It does feel kinda surreal to be back home in your own walls, in your own bed, doesn't it? I have found that especially longer trips require some adjustment to normal routine again. I am glad you made it home safely. Time to wind down, fix the gear, get the bike some TLC, and make plans for the next epic journey. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on a great trip!
ReplyDeleteThanks Sonja and Canajun for following along - it was fun sharing the ride. You're right, my little Star is in need of some TLC. Where to next?
ReplyDeleteWow, what a fascinating trip and such a well written blog about it. I'm not sure why I find yours so intriguing among so many others but I think it might be the similarity. When I read yours knowing that your home base is close to mine, it's much easier for me to think "hey, I can do that!" A trip to California is definitely on my wish list and its good to know it can be done on a bike as "small" as a 650. As much as I love my Suzi SV1000S, my old knees cannot take the riding position for more than a day at a time. Plus, the high twin exhaust means I have to stack all luggage behind me on the passenger seat which makes it very top heavy. Late last summer I added a 3rd bike to my garage: a Kawasaki Versys 650. I shyed away from a cruiser because I read that they can be hard on the back and butt due to the riding position, plus I also like to take side adventures down gravel roads. But after reading about your trip, I might need to rethink my position. During a day, I put on a lot of kms but never seem to get far --- if that makes any sense. I stick to back County roads usually but now I'm thinking that to truly see what North America has to offer, I might need to stick to more direct routes instead of the windiest roads i can find on google maps. Maybe a V-Star is what I need. After all, I still have my DR650 for the gravel travel. Cheers!
ReplyDeleteThanks k rowland s ... you are a brave soul who has read the entire epic adventure of 2011 (2010 was our test ride.) To see the Pacific coast of California was also a dream of mine and the journey a chance to find my voice, good posts and bad. Buying the Star made it possible as the Savage, though light and nimble was showing her limitations as a reliable touring bike: she served her purpose.
ReplyDeleteWhen my 'little' Star is packed I have a lovely back rest of tent and sleeping bag; the riding position and stock seat suit me to a 'T.' I am lucky to have found a model on the showroom floor that suits me so well. I will admit she has one flaw, the air filter case becomes annoying after a time. The key is to stop frequently. Remember, size is relative. It's only recently (I am reminded often) that a 650 has been defined as a small motorcycle. With the twin, I've never lacked for power and it always seemed to have a little in reserve when I needed it. (The Star and admittedly I don't really like gravel - Next goal - visit Clinton Smout at Horseshoe Valley for off road training!)
Karen:
ReplyDeleteYou've been keeping me entertained for hours. Thanks again for letting me follow along on your 2011 tour
bob
Riding the Wet Coast