First trip with a pillion

[Malve]

We have done some local day rides and communicate well but this will be my first big trip with my gal...or any gal...or anyone for that matter. We are heading to Big Sur (maybe Monterey/Carmel) and I would welcome any advice...either for two up touring in general as well as input for a great trip up the coast.

I haven't made any reservations yet but may tomorrow. We leave early Friday and will return Sunday evening. I got me a new Yammy top case (thanks for the new wobble).

We may do a Hearst Castle tour on saturday or maybe a hike. Thinking breakfast in malibu Friday, lunch in SB and would like to hit Nepenthe on Saturday.

Open to restaurant and Hotel reccomendations although it does look like availability will be an issue. Budget is flexible and willing to drop a little coin for a special weekend but we both also are fine with modest accomodations so thought we might stay cheap a couple of nights and treat ourselves for one. Do want to eat well all weekend, for dinner at least.

As far as two up advice, I can sit for hours and hours and she wouldn't complain so what do y'all reccomend would be a good general time limit to get her off the bike and moving around? I know it's subjective but appreciate the input. On the same topic how may miles per day do you reccomend? (I know...even more subjective but still would like to hear some feedback).

Are there any Droid apps for two way, bluetooth communication?

Any and all input is appreciated. Thanks in advance for your help.

-Malve

PS She is taking the MSF class soon and at the moment is hot for a black FZ6

 

[Willie]

Shoot for a break every 1 1/2 hours just to stretch the legs, especially if this is her first. You don't want it to be her last. Tell her to relax and enjoy, but not fall asleep. Tell her to make sure she tells you if she needs to stop and stop if she askes. Keep in mind you have other input to keep the ride interesting to you, she is just sitting there. Maybe give her a camera to take pictures and snap away. You can get rid of the ones you don't want. Don't show her how fast the FJR is, keep the speeds down reasonably, unless she is a thrill seeker and then keep the speeds down, especially since this is your first 2 up riding. Keep in mind you will need more stopping distance because ye are two now

While it may be too late for this ride, I would definetly get some 2 up communication stuff, like Cardo Scala headsets. This is a safety issue

Oh don't forget to have a great time

Willie

 

[MojaveFJR]

We have the GMRSx for communications. you can blue tooth your phone, nav and audio source into them while still communicating along the route. You can also get cables and adapters for them that will charge as you ride.

Stay here; https://www.moonstonehotels.com/SOISpecials.htm

and ask for the romance package, you get dinner which is awesome, and there are some other treats put in the room prior to your arrival. Make reservations early as this place fills up on the weekends. Great place to launch from into Monterey. Stop and check out the seals. Dang elephant seals are HUGE!

 

[dcarver]

Remember your primary responsibilities are pillion safety and comfort if you want the pillion back for more.

I'd start with stopping every hour unless she says she's fine with it. Remember most ladies like 'improved' restrooms. Without 2-way communication, develop some hand signals. Sounds like she's into riding - but two-up each party has roles to play. Be sure she understands hers (riding neutral, read the road, no helmet-banging.. and well, this ain't your first rodeo you know the drill..

 

[Khunajawdge]

Do not give up on the idea of the black FZ1. Even after she starts riding it, you will most likely be carrying the gear for 2 after that, so this 2 -up ride will be a good break-in ride for how to pack for 2. You're not bringing a tent are ya?

Go Here.my favorite off season lodging is the Lucia Inn. The micro climate there even allows for a small banana plantation.

best,

 

[McRide]

We checked out many of the hotels on Moonstone Beach Road since we knew we would be returning .... Try the Cambria Shores Inn. Outstanding. Modest on the outside but like a Hyatt on the inside. All updated rooms, fireplace, 600 count bedding, modern furnishings, very private private back patio, Nothing else like it on the Moonstone strip. Short walk to the best seafood eatery in the area, also on MBR. Enjoy your trip.

 

[James Burleigh]

Hey, Malve, good to hear from you again. I haven't read all the responses in detail, so forgive me if I repeat other's advice.

I would say make it smooooooooth. That kind of neck-breaking acceleration we love when we're by ourselves needs to go out the window with a new passenger, unless you're passing or evading.

And speaking of passing, Hwy 1 is narrow, twisty, and full of sight-see'ers going slooooooooow. So you need to resolve yourself to taking it easy, and avoid the temptation to pass in bad locations (approaching blind curves, over DLs). Also, watch out for cars pulling in and out of sight-seeing pullouts.

Have fun! Wish I could shoot down and say howdy....

JB

 

[Malve]

Thanks for all the help and avice...all good stuff and really appreciated.

JB...We'll make it up your way soon and arrange to break bread with you at the least.

We ended up booking a room at the Ragged Point Inn so I will report back on it.

I also downdloaded an app for the droid that is basically a bluetooth walkie talkie so, I will also report on that.

Thanks again,

-Malve