BigJohn's 2017 BIG Ride

[FJRay]

Always wanted to do that ride on my KLR. Guess I'll just watch you do it and fantasize.

What is holding you back Ray?

Sold the KLR, lack of funds and lack of a good back.

 

[FrankD]

Alaska is still a dream. My dirt skills suck majorly right now ... so probably not Prudhoe Bay, but Alaska nevertheless.
Need to find good people to go with, as it is an endeavor I do not wish to undertake alone.

I sat through a presentation by Jim Hyde last week. Pretty much convinced me that I need to take a RawHyde beginner's course before I sign up for something like this. They offer a three-day training course on ADV riding skills/techniques in Castiac. Just put "RawHyde Adventures" into you browser of choice to get the details.

 

[bigjohnsd]

I've been out practicing on the freshly graded wet gravel. Lots of fun with the fully laden KLR. Have not fallen....yet!

 

[Pterodactyl]

Are you practicing while you have a hangover? That is the real test.

 

[FrankD]

I've been out practicing on the freshly graded wet gravel. Lots of fun with the fully laden KLR. Have not fallen....yet!

I took the lil' GS out on a trail ride a couple of weeks ago up to Santiago Peak. The trail is a double track with a mix of hard pack, loose silt, baby heads and a couple of rock gardens. It was my first deliberate off-road ride. The first drop shortened the front brake lever. The second drop took it off altogether. The ride back down with rear brake only can be described as "exhilarating" at best.

Lessons Learned:

1. Install lever protection - Tusk guards installed

2. Carry extra levers - 2x when I bought replacement parts

3. Get some tires that can handle off-road conditions. - Trade in the Anakee's (most BMW ADV's seem to come with these 80/20's) for some Mitas E-07's (recommended 50/50's). TDL for the next week or two

4. Get some off-road skills - still working this one. Found that keeping the shiny side up on the road doesn't translate to staying vertical off-road.

 

[bruinFJRguy]

You guys are so hardcore! Looks like a great trip. Have fun!

 

[bigjohnsd]

Can't drink enough to get a hangover any more.

 

[erixun]

Can't drink enough to get a hangover any more.

That right there is tempting the hangover gods, and will make them angry. I would advise you against making such statements. I found this out in Cancun last week... they are harder to get, but holy ****, they last longer now too.

 

[bigjohnsd]

If I Fri k more than a glass of wine or a beer or a drink my heart will go into overdrive. Good reason not to drink more than one.

 

[zzzzip]

Have a good trip and be sure to send postcards.