Norfolk, VA to Jacksonville, FL

[Rick_W]

A little late but I wanted to report on my ride.

I rode down to Jacksonville last Saturday (Oct 11). After filling up the night before, I left Norfolk at ~0730 and headed across US-58 until I got to Emporia, VA - where I jumped on I-95 and headed South.

According to my GPS, I travelled 650 miles in 9 hours. My total time for stops was 22 minutes, which included a few stop-lights and two stops for fuel. Average speed for the trip was 71 mph.

My ass was ok for the first 550 miles, and then I started to squirm. I had an Airhawk seat cushion but never felt the need to put it on. If I had needed to go further than 650 miles, I probably would have put it on. More than anything, my knees would start aching. I found myself dropping my feet and/or standing on the pegs quite a bit. This is probably what kept my butt from feeling the pain until so late in the ride.

Currently looking at doing a SS1K when I leave to go back home.

 

[Rick_W]

Just wanted to add my mileage numbers:

Tank 1 - 223.9 miles - 5.105 gallons = 43.86 mpg

Tank 2 - 213.4 miles - 5.024 gallons = 42.48 mpg

Tank 3 - 236.9 miles - 5.661 gallons = 41.85 mpg

Tank 3 was in Jacksonville after riding around, shopping and getting something to eat.

My moving speed was typically 75-85 (GPS) mph.

 

[madjackdog]

My bike is fairly new and the longest run I've made so far is 250 miles, and even at that my legs and knees were feeling it at the end. I too was dropping my legs and standing on the pegs towards the end. Of course, I'm 62, so that might explain it. Going to Montana next year so I'll have to get in practice.

 

[RoadGlide]

Just wanted to add my mileage numbers:
Tank 1 - 223.9 miles - 5.105 gallons = 43.86 mpg

Tank 2 - 213.4 miles - 5.024 gallons = 42.48 mpg

Tank 3 - 236.9 miles - 5.661 gallons = 41.85 mpg

Tank 3 was in Jacksonville after riding around, shopping and getting something to eat.

My moving speed was typically 75-85 (GPS) mph.

Hi Rick, The next time you're heading to Jacksonville give me a yell if you need anything. Should you need a witness for your SS1000 and starting or ending in Jax let me know.

Wade

 

[Rick_W]

Hi Rick, The next time you're heading to Jacksonville give me a yell if you need anything. Should you need a witness for your SS1000 and starting or ending in Jax let me know.
Wade

Thanks Wade. I'm still here in Mayport - came down to oversee some inspections on the HUE CITY. Not sure whether I will get to leave this coming weekend (10/25) or next (10/31).

I'd be appreciative if you'd sign my starting paperwork when I leave. Meet ya the night before for a cup o' Joe.

 

[Rick_W]

My bike is fairly new and the longest run I've made so far is 250 miles, and even at that my legs and knees were feeling it at the end. I too was dropping my legs and standing on the pegs towards the end. Of course, I'm 62, so that might explain it. Going to Montana next year so I'll have to get in practice.

I've found that as my body gets used to the new riding position, I can ride longer before having pains. I'm coming from a Kawasaki Vulcan Classic 1600, so this is a totally different ride - but 100% more comfortable even in stock configuration.

Add in better mileage, bigger gas tank, and better storage - it's all-around a much better motorcycle.

 

[Low Level FJR Pilot]

Rick, good ride report. If you are still out there in Mayport and working on HUE CITY, let me know how they are liking their (overhauled) new WSC-6 antenna I just provided. Say hi to the CSO for me as well, he's a good guy, just can't remember his name right now. Take care and maybe if you ever make it to San Dog we can ride together, or next time I'm in Norfolk, if you know anyone that wants to loan me a Feej or a place I can rent one, we can ride.