tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-242822382024-03-13T11:00:38.262-06:00Motorcycle Blog by SilverwingerRiding motorcycles is what we doSilverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-51589819382372187622016-09-30T20:23:00.000-06:002016-09-30T20:23:13.253-06:00Goldwing Ride to Big Knife Park<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RTBnUtdYcJY" width="480"></iframe>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-76061234507231312332016-02-07T20:19:00.001-07:002016-02-07T20:19:17.471-07:00Jeep Wrangler YJ 1995<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U2htAs2_CAc" width="480"></iframe>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-6570541213800642202016-01-01T09:57:00.001-07:002016-01-01T10:00:15.415-07:00Something Good This Way ComesRumors of my demise are untrue, unfounded and just not so. My rather long hiatus may finally be over as I am ready to take this blog in a new direction, In cooperation with this blog, Vlogging hopefully will be added as I head into my retirement, that's right, these old bones of mine are heading for the scrapyard as I head into the sunset of my life.<br />
Maybe a little dramatic but as I take my leave from the working world, I hope to do more videos of motorcycle roads from the seat of my Goldwing and videos from the seat of an RV as I make my way to the good roads and from the seat of my trusty old Jeep.<br />
I have got a ways to go before I pull this all together, start a YouTube channel, link it to Facebook and this blog and work out the rest of the logistics, be patient but stay tuned.Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-59213316514201868062010-11-14T12:43:00.005-07:002010-11-14T13:35:23.306-07:00A Ride to the ParkHere is a motorcycle video I did of Clarence and I day taking a ride into Big Knife Park on the Battle River. Since the onslaught of cold weather and winter this may be the closest thing we can do to riding.<br /><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyz1e4hBNaBNr5fmsh8P__Q7BLi48gr5nhz_y5bjWs6T2QL2BNmNvfA8qkKPaHK4kw1pOQ5m2cGCw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-61370020350661516022010-11-08T18:56:00.003-07:002010-11-08T19:43:23.984-07:00Project Bike is RunningThe project bike is finally on the road.<br />I finally bit the bullet mooched a ride and haul from a Friend and took the bike into Red Deer to Ivan's Cycle and in the blink of a bikers eye he had the wing up and running smoothly. Ivan skillfully did in four and half hours what I couldn't accomplish in four months.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/TNiqoESbgeI/AAAAAAAAAgA/OFyrXNqcdnU/s1600/I%2Bphone%2Bphotos%2B347.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 394px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537363347174556130" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/TNiqoESbgeI/AAAAAAAAAgA/OFyrXNqcdnU/s400/I%2Bphone%2Bphotos%2B347.jpg" /></a> <div>Ivan removed the carbs replaced some faulty O-rings, cleaned the carbs and synched it into the smooth running machine that it is now. He told me some one had been into the carbs before and used some wrong O-rings which resulted in the leaky condition. These were the carbs that I bought off of E-bay as the original ones that came with the bike were extraordinarily filthy and gunked up from dirt and debris. After about six attempts myself at trying to make them serviceable and grunting and groaning them on and off the bike, I just gave up on them.</div><div>Took the bike up to him on Thursday and he phoned me Friday night to tell me it was finished and ready to go.</div><div>My good friend Garry and his faithful Dodge pickup helped bring the bike back to Castor on Saturday.</div><div>The weather was cool on Sunday but the forecast was for colder temps moving into the region, so it was now or spring to go for a ride. </div><div>I didn't want to go too far or too fast as the bike had been sitting for a few years and I am still not sure what condition all of the other components are in like the brakes, wheels, transmission or tires. The bike purred like a kitten and ran flawlessly</div><div>Managed to put on about 100 km hitting the highlights of Fleet, Coronation and Halkirk. The project bike will be a warm weather bike as the rider is wide open to the wind not like the full dresser wing back in the shop.</div><div>Most of the things I do with motorcycles I can not accomplish without the help of friends and I am truly blessed to have some good ones. And I can't say enough of about Ivan and his repair shop in Red Deer, great mechanic, great guy and if you were to ask me, I would recommend him highly for motorcycle work. </div><div>The project bike is a work in progress and I have some ideas but not sure where I am heading next, but now that I now it runs and runs well I can work on it and ride it at the same time.</div>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-45814216585086215852010-10-20T22:36:00.001-06:002010-10-20T22:37:55.910-06:00FreedomImage if you will, shedding every item you own, every problem you have, every burden you carry, every issue that haunts you, and becoming a free thinking, free riding, free man.<br />Image if you unpacked the bike you packed and retained only the things you really needed to survive on the bike. All you really need to survive is air to breath, water to drink and something to eat, the rest is just clutter. Add in some clothes to wear, cooking utensils, camping gear and some cash to buy gas and you will be completely outfitted to take the motorcycle ride of a lifetime.<br />Riding a motorcycle unencumbered by clutter, devoid of a befuddled mind and a yearning to learn is as close to being free as you can get.Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-62201032699035633082010-10-18T21:01:00.000-06:002010-10-18T21:05:37.990-06:00The HighwayThe highway is the ribbon that binds everything together, without the road there is no ride, no story, no adventure to be had and no new sites to see. The highway is your friend, your companion and must be revered, don’t lose sight of it and don’t stray far from it. There are good roads and bad roads and roads to be avoided and if you pick the right ones you will be rewarded. Most bikers will avoid the freeways, the four lanners where the drivers seem to be competing for a pole position or just living their life in a mobile living room.<br /> Most of the things the rider sees occurring in the cars dare not be attempted by the rider and the rider by virtue of being out there in the air shuns these things. Life in the slow lane is a better choice, how better to see the country, meet the people and enjoy the reality of real people. The pace is slower the sites more interesting the interactions more real and satisfying. My reality is the highway, the thing that takes me where I want to go, the conveyance of choice but it has to be the right highway. I don’t like to stray far from the highway when on a road trip, I don’t want to take ten mile excursions off the route to camp or eat and then back track to my resume my riding. Back tracking is a bikers no-no, something to be avoided. If caught in this situation it is better to re-route yourself and follow a new route to get you back on track avoiding back tracking at all costs, then all will be well.<br /> There are so many ways that riders have tried to explain why we ride, all true and have meaning for the rider. Being out there completely encapsulated, not a kinetic energy but a dynamic force hurtling down the road, you are the scene not just a part of one. A throwback to the cowboy era, a man on his horse on his own traveling with not a care in the world. Freedom of the open road, a free rider in a free country choosing where and when to go, which roads to take and in which direction to take them. Control, one man, one bike with the power and authority to hurl and guide his missile down the road.<br /> The biker pounds the pavement in his own reality and passes through other peoples reality only choosing to stop and participate if he wishes. To the passers by he is just a fleeting glimpse, a rider on a motorcycle, here and gone in the blink of an eye.<br /> The route ahead is taking me to a better road, more scenic, more curves, more motorcycle friendly and most importantly less traffic.Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-7688658263599255722010-10-03T19:28:00.004-06:002010-10-03T19:51:05.038-06:00Project Bike<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/TKkubosXybI/AAAAAAAAAe0/4R3bxV44sOQ/s1600/Project+Bike+005.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5523997470261496242" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/TKkubosXybI/AAAAAAAAAe0/4R3bxV44sOQ/s400/Project+Bike+005.jpg" /></a> The project bike is coming along slower than I would like, I have managed to get it looking like a standard bike again by replacing the parts discarded by the previous owner in his quest to make it a touring bike.<br />My biggest headache has been the carbs as they were filthy inside with rust, corrosion, dirt and gravel and a healthy dose of stinking stale gasoline residue.<br />I attempted to clean them myself and ordered carb parts to do the job but I failed in keeping the carbs from leaking like a sieve and gave up on the original carbs as I have had them on and off the bike and apart at least ten times in order to make them stop leaking and work adequately.<br />I bought a set of complete carbs off E-bay thinking I could just bolt them on and I would be away. When I received the carbs a quick check in the bowls seemed to indicate that they were in good shape and should work. They were in far better shape than the originals that I had taken off the bike, but alas they proved to have the same faults as the originals.<br />After some doubts, deliberations and anxious thoughts of cheapness, I have decided to take them to a mechanic to see if he can rebuild and get the bike running properly.<br />I have to make sure the bike will run properly before preceding with the next steps of new brakes, new tires, new mufflers and maybe a new paint job.<br />I got into this project cheap but I won't be getting out cheap as this thing is a money pit like most of these bright ideas. At first I thought if I couldn't make the bike viable I could just part it out and make my money back or a small profit, but I am way beyond that now.Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-41432410340857987802010-03-20T20:05:00.006-06:002010-03-20T20:46:47.394-06:00I hate Motorcycles..........That don"t run and look like crap, so I bought one.<br /><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/S6WAlQ0lrVI/AAAAAAAAAek/-SH3IanW0vY/s1600-h/DSCF0029.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450904301660908882" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/S6WAlQ0lrVI/AAAAAAAAAek/-SH3IanW0vY/s400/DSCF0029.JPG" /></a> And this one fit the bill, look at it, it looks crappy with that white fairing and white lidless saddle bags. I don't think a guy can have too many motorcycles so I picked this one up for a project bike and what a project it is becoming. If you think you can get into this kind of thing cheap and enjoy some trouble free riding you are in for a shock and some sticker shock. </p><p>First things first, off with the fairing, to the dump with those scuzzy looking saddlebags. But then I find out I need to replace the taillight mounts the headlight bucket, brackets and front signal lights not to mention after sitting for a few years in an abandoned granary it don't run so good any more.<br /><br /></p><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/S6WACntNYmI/AAAAAAAAAec/ibpf2cD-Dag/s1600-h/DSCF0033.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450903706508550754" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/S6WACntNYmI/AAAAAAAAAec/ibpf2cD-Dag/s400/DSCF0033.JPG" /></a> Looks better after a bath and those hideous looking white attachments banished to obscurity, but lots of work to do yet. The carwash didn't wash the rust off the mufflers or make a dent in the deeply embedded dirt hiding under the frame and plastics. And it didn't make it run any better either.</p><p>After a generous supply of carb cleaner and Sea Foam in a furtive attempt to clear the carbs did I realize that the carbs had to be removed and cleaned. And what a cleaning they needed, after years of running up and down a gravel road they managed to accumulate enough gravel and sand in the float bowls to start their own road project. </p><p>Carb removal on a wing is not for the faint hearted and after a brief struggle with the linkage and getting the carb pack to clear the frame and out did I get a look at the mess I thought I was going to fix with Sea Foam.</p><p>Cleaning was done with carb cleaner spray and some very fine wires to clean out the ports and I was very careful not to re-adjust the settings well it sat on the bench. Then after another brief struggle and colorful words sprayed at random around the shop I managed to re-attach the carbs, and what can I say other than it ran great, but the brushes in the starter decided to give out and it hasn't been running since I am still waiting for the parts to arrive to fix the starter.</p><p>While waiting for various parts to arrive from various parts of the northern hemisphere, I managed to score some new rear signal lights, headlight bucket and brackets and get all the signal lights and headlight working as well as attaching some new driving lights to the front of the bike.</p><p>My goal this year is just to get it up and running good and make sure it is going to be a reliable ride but I am still waiting for starter brushes, hand grips, windshield and a test ride.</p><p>Maybe next year I can address some new mufflers, some new paint and some new tires for the project but stay tuned I will update later on my progress. <br /><br /><br /></p>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-52537374455947269932009-08-27T19:45:00.006-06:002009-09-05T21:59:51.712-06:00Motorcycle Ride Video-Eleven Bridges RoadHere is a motorcycle ride video I did last Sunday with Dan and Donna-Lynne over the Eleven Bridges Road to Wayne, Alberta culminating in a stop for refreshments at the Last Chance Saloon.<br />I shot the video at great peril to myself as I put the bike on cruise and held the camera with my throttle hand. No bikers were injured, maimed or otherwise disfigured in the making of this epic journey.<br /><br /><span style="color:#33ff33;">Push the little arrow thingy to watch the video.</span><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyL-kewnumTbsaRctCt1Uf8Cc2Ju01l9H5jaEOROzPDTQBAMps37CGr1Xo8l4HeMbbOp0T98mz6pDo' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-90169087324589450382009-02-08T21:06:00.008-07:002009-02-08T21:45:14.397-07:00Motorcycle Tent TrailerNow that I have the Goldwing with its extra power and towing capacity, I would like to upgrade from my current cargo trailer to a tent trailer.<br />I am getting a little too old to be sleeping in a pup tent and the crawling around on the ground is hard on the old knees and back<br /><br />Looking over the net, most that I find are rather expensive for my budget.<br /><br /><p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-sYrV-cHI/AAAAAAAAAcg/bomOUHO5DNM/s1600-h/trailer1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300644826390098034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 196px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 160px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-sYrV-cHI/AAAAAAAAAcg/bomOUHO5DNM/s400/trailer1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This one is from <a href="http://www.leesurelite.com/">Leesurelite</a> and retails for more than $5,000 dollars. I like the layout and the room as well as the low weight of the trailer [250 lbs].</p><p>So why can't I build one for less?</p><p>I started doodling and doing some planning and this is what I come up with.</p><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-tOfvM2aI/AAAAAAAAAco/5m3jatcbboI/s1600-h/trailer+plan+5.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300645750987610530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-tOfvM2aI/AAAAAAAAAco/5m3jatcbboI/s400/trailer+plan+5.JPG" border="0" /></a> It should be simple enough to build the box, bend a little conduit piping and manufacture the hardware needed, take it to an upholsterer and get them to sew up a tent. The box would be about 5 feet long-40 inches wide and 18 inches tall. Once opened up the whole thing sets up quickly. As you lift the top of the box it pulls the canvas and the tent poles into position. The tubing can be made adjustable and pushed upward to make the canvas taut. Then a small board is extended to make the sleeping area 6'6 feet long.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-t5xcsB6I/AAAAAAAAAcw/-qvE6AcPJ5Y/s1600-h/trailer+plan.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300646494476175266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-t5xcsB6I/AAAAAAAAAcw/-qvE6AcPJ5Y/s400/trailer+plan.JPG" border="0" /></a> If all goes well it should end up looking something like this. Granted it will not have the sleek look of fiberglass like the retail model but it should be sufficient to keep one off the ground and have room to stand up in.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-unBbI7oI/AAAAAAAAAc4/OVluYNuRfSA/s1600-h/Trailer+plan+6.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300647271858761346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-unBbI7oI/AAAAAAAAAc4/OVluYNuRfSA/s400/Trailer+plan+6.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />The tubing had me stumped for a little while but with a tubing bender and some additional hardware the whole thing could fold down into the box neatly.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-vWHg293I/AAAAAAAAAdA/kWYhhDA_ml0/s1600-h/trailer+plan+2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300648080947214194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SY-vWHg293I/AAAAAAAAAdA/kWYhhDA_ml0/s400/trailer+plan+2.JPG" border="0" /></a> Attach the box to the top of a trailer, stick a cooler on the front frame and away you go camping.</p><p>Anyhoo, this is as far as I have gotten, the tent tarp still has a few wrinkles left to be ironed out and I don't want to get started on a doomed project unless I am sure that I can finish it and have a decent looking trailer to haul behind the Wing.</p><p>I think I can keep the cost down as I already have the trailer, just need to add stabilizer jacks to the bottom of it, buy some plywood and piano hinge, get the tubing, tubing bender and then find some fabric for the tent.<br /></p>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-2097617758450727352009-01-11T16:58:00.004-07:002009-01-11T17:37:27.374-07:00Goldwing Chrome<strong>And so it begins.</strong><br />One of the great things about having a Goldwing is the numerous add-ons that are available for that bike. When I acquired my Goldwing it had some extra chrome but by no means was it loaded. At first I was a little hesitant to order on-line but now after taking the plunge I find it to be a safe and fast way to find items for these older wings.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqIEMPZFNI/AAAAAAAAAaI/x9W2c51ipE4/s1600-h/trunk+rack.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290190317886706898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 346px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqIEMPZFNI/AAAAAAAAAaI/x9W2c51ipE4/s400/trunk+rack.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong>Trunk Rack-</strong> The wing needed a trunk rack to stow some extra cargo on those longer camping trips. this item was purchased from <a href="http://www.saber-cycle.com/store/">Sabre Cycle </a>in Missouri, good service and prices for Wings of all ages. I also managed to find a left side snap-on-pocket for the fairing, the only place on the net that I know of that had this item.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqID2T4dDI/AAAAAAAAAaA/4UaxUqM4T3g/s1600-h/bag+liners.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290190311999960114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 304px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqID2T4dDI/AAAAAAAAAaA/4UaxUqM4T3g/s400/bag+liners.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong>Saddle Bag Liners-</strong> Needed some bag liners for extra ease of taking things off the bike as the hard bags are permanently fixed and these are cool. These and the other items below have been ordered from <a href="http://www.jcwhitney.com/Motorcycle-Parts/10111.jcw">JC Whitney</a>, they have a few Wing items but there selection is limited. I also have a set of chromed levers coming.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqID47tq6I/AAAAAAAAAZ4/BB0mRKWWGAw/s1600-h/Bag+Chrome.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290190312703896482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 274px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqID47tq6I/AAAAAAAAAZ4/BB0mRKWWGAw/s400/Bag+Chrome.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong>Saddlebag Rails-</strong> My saddle bags lids are starting to show some wear and tear mostly from sun damage and these little bits of bling will distract the eye from the wear spots and prevent further damage to the lids, besides you can't have too much chrome on a Goldwing.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqIDlLxVqI/AAAAAAAAAZw/Dxta1zK3KH4/s1600-h/wind+deflectors.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290190307402536610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 375px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqIDlLxVqI/AAAAAAAAAZw/Dxta1zK3KH4/s400/wind+deflectors.jpg" border="0" /></a> <strong>Wind deflectors-</strong>These are handy when the weather gets hot and you want to direct a breeze towards your self.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqIDVZcImI/AAAAAAAAAZo/TFO1_yUctGo/s1600-h/lights.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290190303164899938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SWqIDVZcImI/AAAAAAAAAZo/TFO1_yUctGo/s400/lights.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Lights-</strong>How could you not add extra lights to the back of a wing, safety first and besides these will replace a couple crusty ones already on the bike.</div><div> </div><div>The temperature got up to zero yesterday and today so naturally my thoughts turned to biking and what I would need for the upcoming riding season.</div><div> </div><div>I have been buying these items on line and find that even with the difference in the dollar and the shipping cost it is easier and cheaper to buy out of the United States.</div><div>I have also ordered items from <a href="http://www.bikebandit.com/">BikeBandit.com</a> and found them to be a good reliable source of stock motorcycle parts and accessories.</div><div> </div><div>Next up I need to order a trailer hitch, tank rack and a stock looking antenna</div><div><br /><br /><br /> </div><div></div></div></div>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-40762212447485190712008-08-16T08:03:00.004-06:002008-08-16T08:32:44.275-06:00A Ride Around My Home TownHere is a video I made of a ride around my home town. I fashioned a home made camera mount on to the Goldwing and bolted down my cheesy little digital camera. Maybe not the greatest of cinema but not bad for my first effort at motorcycle ride video.<br />Enjoy the ride.<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzGsXKHHF13NMouGiF9P__wUGc2hw24lKibVUyKncRPvzWmY0RZIDBwEO9C1fUm7IE_8rf0GjwVnt0' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-54689860144853958132008-08-11T19:06:00.015-06:002009-02-08T21:48:08.019-07:00Kootenay Run 2008<div align="left">Only had time for five day run this year to test out the new bike, so Jane and Mike from Castor plus myself decided to challenge the Kaslo-Nakusp Highway.<br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDotJOtx1I/AAAAAAAAATI/1CEMQVJy1b0/s1600-h/kootenay+Run+2036.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233438629273913170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDotJOtx1I/AAAAAAAAATI/1CEMQVJy1b0/s400/kootenay+Run+2036.jpg" border="0" /></a> <em>Mike and Jane climbing the first hills and challenging some of the first curves out of Kaslo<br /></em><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"><br />The weather was great and the traffic light on this great motorcycle road.<br />Met lots of bikers on the roads, Ferries and campgrounds including a couple of Irishmen who were on a three week riding holiday picking up their rental bikes in Vancouver and then sampling some of Canada's best motorcycle roads.<br /><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDm1H7GBcI/AAAAAAAAATA/rdiMIKPsXCY/s1600-h/kootenay+Run+2084.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233436567338878402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDm1H7GBcI/AAAAAAAAATA/rdiMIKPsXCY/s400/kootenay+Run+2084.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a><em>Simon and Kieran </em></p><br /><p align="left">Also met a Valkyrie rider from Calgary named Peter and his wife who trailered their bike out behind a camper van and then just did the roads of their choice[best of both worlds]. Great talking about bikes with other riders and listening to their experiences and about their travels. Sorry Peter I forgot to take a pic of you guys and your bike.<br /><br /></p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDtGBRPInI/AAAAAAAAATg/xCSGBgfYiWI/s1600-h/kootenay+Run+2078.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233443454680244850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDtGBRPInI/AAAAAAAAATg/xCSGBgfYiWI/s400/kootenay+Run+2078.jpg" border="0" /></a> <em>Mike on his Crotch rocket</em></div><div align="left">We stopped often to enjoy the view and take some snaps of the scenery, Mike and I practised our riding style and tried to get a motorcycle magazine type shot of ourselves on the bike, pictures just don't do this road justice. I don't think you can find a road anywhere in the world that has as many curves and twister's as this one.</div><em><div align="center"><br /></em><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDtW7-MmII/AAAAAAAAATo/15gBEJi4pD8/s1600-h/kootenay+Run+2086.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233443745315985538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDtW7-MmII/AAAAAAAAATo/15gBEJi4pD8/s400/kootenay+Run+2086.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a><em>The Coffee gang at "Corner Gas"</em></p><p align="left">During a small cloud burst I ducked under this overhang at a small gas station to get out of the rain, Mike and Jane wisely stopped earlier to suit up in their rain gear. This dedicated bunch of friendly guys gathered here every day to drink their coffee and watch the motorcycle squids go by, often yelling out whether it was a Harley or a crotch-rocket. They must of seen a million bikes go by their front door all summer long. They welcomed me into the club and were quite gracious about sharing the overhang with me.<br /></p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDtrTJcUzI/AAAAAAAAATw/-kunBkF3oiQ/s1600-h/kootenay+Run+2033.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233444095134552882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDtrTJcUzI/AAAAAAAAATw/-kunBkF3oiQ/s400/kootenay+Run+2033.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a><em>Are these tables for anyone?</em></p><p align="left">No fast food along this route but some nice friendly small cafes and Bistros to tie on the feed bag and take a respite from the road.<br /></p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDuRbkYHiI/AAAAAAAAAT4/s2PZ9Y5-EX8/s1600-h/kootenay+Run+2083.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233444750230036002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDuRbkYHiI/AAAAAAAAAT4/s2PZ9Y5-EX8/s400/kootenay+Run+2083.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a><em>Ferry Rides are a highlight of the trip</em></p><p align="left">One of the many highlights of this route are the free ferries along the way crossing two different lakes and if you choose to go west you can even work in a third ferry on the way to Vernon.<br /></p><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDz6Dlo6uI/AAAAAAAAAUA/UZ3KBZ8sOFk/s1600-h/Road+trip3.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233450945725655778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SKDz6Dlo6uI/AAAAAAAAAUA/UZ3KBZ8sOFk/s400/Road+trip3.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><em>This is the route we were on and basically all the fun begins at Revelstoke as you head south on Highway 6 as the traffic thins out and the curves start to bend a little more and the road just gets better and better as you go. When you get to Creston you are back in the tourist zone with all of the traffic.</em></p><p><em></em></p>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-54254058162063670912008-07-24T21:20:00.005-06:002008-07-24T22:21:22.208-06:00With a Little Help From FriendsAfter a lot of searching the net and local dealerships with a lot of dithering about what I really wanted in a motorcycle, fate jumped in and I now have a new ride.<br /><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SIlHFF-6irI/AAAAAAAAASs/VQfAX1u75j8/s1600-h/Goldwing+new+011.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226786995371150002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SIlHFF-6irI/AAAAAAAAASs/VQfAX1u75j8/s400/Goldwing+new+011.jpg" border="0" /></a>Introducing the new to me, 1983 Goldwing GL 1100 Interstate previously owned by Deon and Cory of Edmonton Alberta. </p><p>I was really torn about whether I should buy a touring bike or go for one of the snazzy next to new cruisers. But in the end when I saw the ad for Deon's bike on the Internet, the deal was done.</p><p>I came home for lunch on Monday, sat down to check the latest motorcycle listings on Kijiji and spotted the bike which had only been posted in the last hour.</p><p>Breathless and excited I phoned the number and inquired about the bike and asked a bunch of silly questions and laid out a few scenarios on how I could make it to Edmonton (<em>I live three hours away</em>) before the bike was sold, and if we could load it into the back of my truck. The seller, Deon was very patient and tried to answer all of my breathless questions as I was starting to dither bad and was unsure what to do next.</p><p>Deon told me that when I finally decided what I was going to do to phone him back.</p><p>I paced furiously about the house trying to decide if it was worth the effort to race up to Edmonton to look at the bike, only to have my hopes dashed if someone closer decided to buy it before I could get there.</p><p>Dinner was on the table, but all I could think about was the bike. And if you have seen my girth, you would soon notice I haven't missed many dinners. Dinner would have to wait.</p><p>It was a no-brainer, this was the bike I had wanted, I would take a chance and jump in the car and head to Edmonton.</p><p>I phoned Deon back told him I was coming and much to his credit Deon told me others were coming later in the day to look at the bike but if I was to take the three hour drive to look at the bike, he would wait for me.</p><p>I told him I was only going to stop at the bank, grab the cash and maybe have to stop for gas somewhere along the road but I was on my way.</p><p>I must have smoked twenty cigarettes on the way to Edmonton constantly fretting about whether the bike would be there when I arrived or if some one else would snatch this Goldwing from my grasp.</p><p>Deon gave me some great directions over the phone as I neared his house, and when I walked up his driveway and into the garage I was sold. Deon was there and the bike was there.</p><p>Asked if I wanted to take it for a test drive I could only blurt out that if the bike started, I would buy it. Deon cranked the Wing to life and the deal was consummated. </p><p>Last week I lamented on the fact that buying a bike should be easy, and so it was, with the help and kindness of the seller. Deon waited for me to make the three hour drive to look at the bike while his phone was ringing off the hook from other buyers, he made it easy for me, for which I am grateful.</p><p>I had more help the next day as friends postponed a trip to their Mothers birthday lunch, to drive me up and pick up the bike. I wanted to buy them dinner when we arrived back at Castor but another friend who was happy that I had finally bought a Goldwing fed us for free.</p><p>Deon wasn't there when we arrived to pick up the bike, but his wife Cory was and with her help we put on my plate and I was ready to ride. Deon was a half hour away but I was so excited to get on the bike I never waited to thank him again for his help and kindness. </p><p>Its a great bike at a great price but the best part is the great people who helped me to be back in the saddle again.<br /></p>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-4288937867387386952008-07-21T07:16:00.003-06:002008-07-21T07:37:14.263-06:00Looking for Mr GoodbikeWhat an idiot I am.<br />I sold my bike and now am on the outside looking in. I stare with awe and bewilderment as I watch people on motorcycles whizzing by on the road, just like when I was a newbie with no motorcycle.<br />My grand plan to upgrade to a newer and bigger motorcycle ground to a halt as I seem to have hit a sellers market and everything I like and crave is beyond my monetary reach.<br />Of course not being able to make up my mind and determine what kind of bike I am looking for has cramped my motorcycle shopping.<br />My mind changes on a hourly basis as to whether I want a cruiser or a touring bike. I believe this may be some kind of mid-life-motorcycle crisis where my motorcycle hormones are raging out of control.<br />As the riding season slips away my motorcycleless induced bout of insanity slowly drags me into thoughts of rapture as I envision the possibilities of bikes that I will never own and then the thunderous crash of reality hits me as I look at the rats nest of possible mechanics specials that are awaiting me if I make a poor choice.<br />Motorcycle shopping is not easy, it should be though, last time I bought I went into the dealers and he had one choice for me and I bought it.<br />Simple and easy, the way it should be.Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-4679051097292123002008-06-27T16:27:00.002-06:002008-06-27T16:39:24.356-06:00Motorcycle For Sale<div align="left"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SGVpgTuRiZI/AAAAAAAAARc/xqRARaQxZ0A/s1600-h/TR+3+001-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5216691747149678994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SGVpgTuRiZI/AAAAAAAAARc/xqRARaQxZ0A/s400/TR+3+001-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div align="left">On Jun 27, 2008, post@kijiji.ca wrote:<br />You've received the following reply to your "<a href="http://reddeer.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-motorcycles-1981-Honda-Silverwing-W0QQAdIdZ58477784" target="_blank">1981 Honda Silverwing</a>" Ad on Kijiji:<br />From: <a href="mailto:lloydsmith@XXXX">lloydsmith@XXXX</a></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="left"><br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">I cant beleive you are selling your namesake, I have been a fan of your website, are you upgrading. </span></em></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div></div><div align="left">Oh man, I never thought any one would notice.<br />Yes as much as I like the little wing I feel it is time to upgrade to a newer bike, I wish I had the money to keep the silverwing and a newer bike but I need the money from the old bike to buy a new one.<br />I plan to keep on blogging only with a different bike, I will still blog under silverwinger as its not easy to start out again.<br />I still haven't sold the bike yet and am in no hurry to give it away so who knows I may have it forever.<br />But thanks for the e-mail, it is nice to know you were reading the blog even though I am not very regular with posting.<br />My latest post is about some Nigerian scammers e-mailing me about the bike.<br />I don't really have a lot of money to throw around and in fact when I bought the Silverwing I purchased it with my Mastercard and just recently got it paid off after three years. I planned to sell the silverwing and put another $2,500 on the master card again and try to buy a newer or bigger bike.<br />I first thought about a Goldwing but then got caught up in the Harley Hysteria{too expensive} and am now leaning towards a Yamaha V-star.<br />Currently I am eyeing a 1985 Goldwing with low miles, or a 2000 V-star 1100. The V-star is quite intriguing as it looks more like a Harley than a Harley does, and is better built.<br /><br />Hey, I think I just got a new posting for my blog.<br /><br /><br /><br /></div>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-51388531009933957392008-05-10T16:00:00.003-06:002008-05-12T18:47:06.360-06:001280 X 800 Wallpaper<div align="center">I made a couple of more widescreen wallpapers, these are 1280 x 800 and should fit your widescreen perfectly. Just click on the photo to see the full size pic, then right click and save to your pictures, enjoy. </div><div align="center"><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb01CwQoI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/zIsR1FKHE-8/s1600-h/Untitled+9.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198873414251594370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb01CwQoI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/zIsR1FKHE-8/s400/Untitled+9.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a>1280 X 800</p><p align="center">Going to the sun highway, Montana</p><p align="center"><br /></p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb1FCwQpI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/hatqyvqug24/s1600-h/Untitled+8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198873418546561682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb1FCwQpI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/hatqyvqug24/s400/Untitled+8.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a>1280 X 800</p><p align="center">Great views in Montana</p><p align="center"><br /></p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb1VCwQqI/AAAAAAAAARE/RDrk8Eh2Zr0/s1600-h/Untitled+7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198873422841528994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb1VCwQqI/AAAAAAAAARE/RDrk8Eh2Zr0/s400/Untitled+7.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a>1280 X 800</p><p align="center">Entering the Park</p><p align="center"><br /></p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb1VCwQrI/AAAAAAAAARM/8jA3n3JHkFw/s1600-h/Untitled+6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198873422841529010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb1VCwQrI/AAAAAAAAARM/8jA3n3JHkFw/s400/Untitled+6.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a>1280 X 800</p><p align="center">Heading south out of Alberta</p><p align="center"><br /></p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb1lCwQsI/AAAAAAAAARU/PEcuk7gSbc8/s1600-h/Silverwinger.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198873427136496322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/SCYb1lCwQsI/AAAAAAAAARU/PEcuk7gSbc8/s400/Silverwinger.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a>1280 X 800</p><p align="center">My trusty old 1981 GL 500 Silverwing Interstate<br /></p>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-38073144924504522812007-09-10T16:18:00.003-06:002008-05-29T20:04:35.189-06:00Motorcycle Camping<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RuXEQR6NrLI/AAAAAAAAAPk/E3XrgK69s-g/s1600-h/P8250036-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5108705136286215346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RuXEQR6NrLI/AAAAAAAAAPk/E3XrgK69s-g/s400/P8250036-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> In order to enjoy your camping you have to pack your bike to the nuts with all the things you may need to make life comfortable. Saddlebags, trunk, and a tank bag can accomodate a lot of your stuff, plus you can pile more on top if need be. Thats where a good supply of bungee cords or cargo netting strap comes in handy.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RuXEPx6NrKI/AAAAAAAAAPc/4Y88_8oNsWM/s1600-h/P8240081-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5108705127696280738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RuXEPx6NrKI/AAAAAAAAAPc/4Y88_8oNsWM/s400/P8240081-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> When planning for motorcycle camping, smaller is better and most camping outlet stores have smaller items that are perfect for motorcycle camping. One burner stove, small lantern, folding fry pan, pots with folding handles, paper plates and plastic cutlery will all do the job for you. Think small and buy accordingly and you can pack everything you need.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RuXERB6NrMI/AAAAAAAAAPs/bqs-dlz_W9Q/s1600-h/P8230066-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5108705149171117250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RuXERB6NrMI/AAAAAAAAAPs/bqs-dlz_W9Q/s400/P8230066-1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I even manage to carry a fold up camping chair with me, because one my pet peeves is that when you arrive at the campsight the only place to sit is on the ground or at the picnic table.<br /><br /><div></div>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-49936037189663320572007-09-03T11:22:00.001-06:002007-09-08T23:19:13.019-06:00Logan Pass-Going to the Sun Highway<div align="center"><span style="color:#33ff33;">[Click on pictures for full size version]<br /></span></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtzMhB6NrJI/AAAAAAAAAO8/GxQVI_RlaCk/s1600-h/map.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106180945351650450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtzMhB6NrJI/AAAAAAAAAO8/GxQVI_RlaCk/s400/map.bmp" border="0" /></a> Ian, Darcy and I met up at Grants house in Calgary and started our five day-three-state-two province tour which would include <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Logans</span> Pass, also known as "The Going To The Sun Highway".<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFnR6NrGI/AAAAAAAAAOk/iNhzxtX1WYw/s1600-h/P8220004-4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106032618656083042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFnR6NrGI/AAAAAAAAAOk/iNhzxtX1WYw/s400/P8220004-4.jpg" border="0" /></a> With fresh faces and no lasting hang overs, we assembled the packed and ready bikes and crew for the obligatory line-up and photo op. Seems to be some one missing, <em>never mind he is taking the photo.<br /></em><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFnB6NrFI/AAAAAAAAAOc/pyoXcXTJdRg/s1600-h/P8220019.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106032614361115730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFnB6NrFI/AAAAAAAAAOc/pyoXcXTJdRg/s400/P8220019.jpg" border="0" /></a> We burned a lot of rubber heading south out of Calgary on Highway 2 heading for our lunch stop at Fort <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">MacLeod</span>. I held the big <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Silverwing</span> back and took up the rear riding position as I expected to have to stop and pick up Yamaha and Harley parts along the way.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFOR6NrEI/AAAAAAAAAOU/hHvjHqklfQg/s1600-h/P8220021.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106032189159353410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFOR6NrEI/AAAAAAAAAOU/hHvjHqklfQg/s400/P8220021.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Nanton</span> was our first breather stop where we could stretch our legs, scratch our butts and take a picture of an airplane on a stick.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFOB6NrDI/AAAAAAAAAOM/Kn1N4DzbPfM/s1600-h/P8220022.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106032184864386098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFOB6NrDI/AAAAAAAAAOM/Kn1N4DzbPfM/s400/P8220022.jpg" border="0" /></a> After crossing into Montana, which has some of the best motorcycle roads on earth, we stopped to load the bikes with cheap beer, gas and smokes.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFOB6NrCI/AAAAAAAAAOE/2kAQuhOvL-c/s1600-h/P8220025-5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106032184864386082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFOB6NrCI/AAAAAAAAAOE/2kAQuhOvL-c/s400/P8220025-5.jpg" border="0" /></a> We entered <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Waterton</span> National Park from the eastern side, stopped and had another photo op, after paying the $12.00 entry fee. I must have intimidated the attendant at the gate as he over charged me outrageously and then had to refund me twice.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFNx6NrBI/AAAAAAAAAN8/3DIu2xG19_c/s1600-h/P8220027-7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106032180569418770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFNx6NrBI/AAAAAAAAAN8/3DIu2xG19_c/s400/P8220027-7.jpg" border="0" /></a> The first few miles of the park are rather tame, but a scenic ride none the less.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFNx6NrAI/AAAAAAAAAN0/ZojhYz8Wiy8/s1600-h/P8220030-0.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106032180569418754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxFNx6NrAI/AAAAAAAAAN0/ZojhYz8Wiy8/s400/P8220030-0.jpg" border="0" /></a> This stopping point over looking the lake is your first hint of what is to come.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEsB6Nq7I/AAAAAAAAANM/SM5yWOxT3LU/s1600-h/P8220051-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106031600748833714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEsB6Nq7I/AAAAAAAAANM/SM5yWOxT3LU/s400/P8220051-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Lots of curves and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">twister's</span> along the way but the amount of traffic <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">thru</span> the park curtails any canyon carving.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEsR6Nq9I/AAAAAAAAANc/5qSQw2t8cGg/s1600-h/P8220043-3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106031605043801042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEsR6Nq9I/AAAAAAAAANc/5qSQw2t8cGg/s400/P8220043-3.jpg" border="0" /></a> The road that was first blasted <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">thru</span> the mountains in the thirties slowly descends along some sheer cliffs and even the local mountain goats get nervous.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEsh6Nq-I/AAAAAAAAANk/1phacxnZzu8/s1600-h/P8220041-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106031609338768354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEsh6Nq-I/AAAAAAAAANk/1phacxnZzu8/s400/P8220041-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Lots of bike traffic carving its way past the tunnels and waterfalls along the route. Even if you had the road to yourself you would be going slow gawking at the marvelous scenery.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEsh6Nq_I/AAAAAAAAANs/WjG0R130nuI/s1600-h/P8220037-7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106031609338768370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEsh6Nq_I/AAAAAAAAANs/WjG0R130nuI/s400/P8220037-7.jpg" border="0" /></a> Lots of little pull offs to take a peek over the edge and shoot some pics.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEIB6Nq4I/AAAAAAAAAM0/Mr6UQXBRPXk/s1600-h/P8220064-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106030982273543042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEIB6Nq4I/AAAAAAAAAM0/Mr6UQXBRPXk/s400/P8220064-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Had a little construction delay that only amounted to about 10 minutes. Had to curtail my nasty smoking habit as there was a fire ban on with a no smoking in the park policy and the cruiser behind us looked ready to enforce the law.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEIB6Nq5I/AAAAAAAAAM8/5PP4VHmSceY/s1600-h/P8220063-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106030982273543058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEIB6Nq5I/AAAAAAAAAM8/5PP4VHmSceY/s400/P8220063-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Even the construction stopping spots offer up a great view. They were rebuilding some of the retaining walls.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEIR6Nq6I/AAAAAAAAANE/pQkJLGcFfTI/s1600-h/P8220062-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106030986568510370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEIR6Nq6I/AAAAAAAAANE/pQkJLGcFfTI/s400/P8220062-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Logans</span> Pass has to be one of the most scenic rides you will find anywhere, with deep <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">gorges</span> and towering mountains.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEHh6Nq2I/AAAAAAAAAMk/EkkAtfX3nTg/s1600-h/P8230079-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106030973683608418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEHh6Nq2I/AAAAAAAAAMk/EkkAtfX3nTg/s400/P8230079-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> After the pass and a night in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Kalispel</span>, we headed west towards Libby and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Bonners</span> Ferry, Idaho where we consulted the map and looked for the most scenic route.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEHh6Nq3I/AAAAAAAAAMs/P5I_dIVUMiQ/s1600-h/P8230073-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106030973683608434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxEHh6Nq3I/AAAAAAAAAMs/P5I_dIVUMiQ/s400/P8230073-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Great stopping spots along the Thompson Lakes region on Highway 2, Montana.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxDbB6NqzI/AAAAAAAAAMM/CLb_q1l_5BI/s1600-h/P8250095-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106030209179429682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxDbB6NqzI/AAAAAAAAAMM/CLb_q1l_5BI/s400/P8250095-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> North of Newport Washington where we found a great little road that took us back up to Canada. Highway 41 north is not a very heavily used road but it was a surprise to us as what a great motorcycle road it turned out to be, if you get the chance check it out.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtzLuR6NrII/AAAAAAAAAO0/_BkzOLcXd_M/s1600-h/P8260043-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106180073473289346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtzLuR6NrII/AAAAAAAAAO0/_BkzOLcXd_M/s400/P8260043-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> We wimped out when we made it to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Fernie</span> B.C. and stayed in a motel for the night rather than taking a camping spot. In the morning a photo op presented itself and we indulged.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxDbR6Nq0I/AAAAAAAAAMU/ol1b-POIzSw/s1600-h/P8250036-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106030213474396994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxDbR6Nq0I/AAAAAAAAAMU/ol1b-POIzSw/s400/P8250036-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> After getting back into Canada the ride to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Creston</span> B.C. was another great motorcycle road.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxDax6NqyI/AAAAAAAAAME/8FcG3pZpV6I/s1600-h/P8260044.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106030204884462370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxDax6NqyI/AAAAAAAAAME/8FcG3pZpV6I/s400/P8260044.jpg" border="0" /></a> Last day heading home we stopped for a break, some were reluctant to come this route through the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Crowsnest</span> Pass as the last time we were <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">thru</span> here in September we were stopped two days in a motel with no power because of an early snow storm. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Thankfully</span> this year there was no snow and we made it through.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxDah6NqxI/AAAAAAAAAL8/yijsIoQA4G8/s1600-h/P8260045-1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5106030200589495058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RtxDah6NqxI/AAAAAAAAAL8/yijsIoQA4G8/s400/P8260045-1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Just short of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Longview</span> Alberta we stopped to suit up as it had been threatening to rain and the low dark clouds ahead had lots of rain in them. We ended up riding the last two hundred miles home in a steady down pour.Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-20056892173759337302007-08-21T07:45:00.001-06:002007-08-21T07:58:19.849-06:00Motorcycle Route PlanningAnother great tool for planning your motorcycle trips is <a href="http://maps.google.ca/maps?ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en&tab=wl&q=">Google maps</a>.<br />It's a free service and here I am using it to plan out a five day trip down to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Kalispel</span> Montana, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Coeur</span> D<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">'Alene</span> Idaho and points <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">beyond</span>.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsrsxh6NqnI/AAAAAAAAAKs/4Hod4cHxzk0/s1600-h/map+1.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101149863610788466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsrsxh6NqnI/AAAAAAAAAKs/4Hod4cHxzk0/s400/map+1.bmp" border="0" /></a> We may or may not follow the route as planned out but gives us a general idea of where we want to go and how to get there. It also has the the benefit of telling you the mileage and time involved in the journey.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsrsxx6NqoI/AAAAAAAAAK0/fWxMZozeqrM/s1600-h/map+2.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101149867905755778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsrsxx6NqoI/AAAAAAAAAK0/fWxMZozeqrM/s400/map+2.bmp" border="0" /></a><br />The days of pouring over paper maps is over and one <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">doesn't</span> have to go out and buy the latest in GPS technology to find your way around the world.Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-84037522679579106212007-08-19T10:51:00.000-06:002007-08-19T11:32:03.312-06:00Getting Ready to Ride<div align="left">One of the better parts of going motorcycle camping is the anticipation and preparation before the ride.<br />Of course no one really likes packing but going by motorcycle presents a challenge of trying to get everything on two wheels that you may need after leaving home.<br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsh1lx6NqhI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/GwSyvlZSc-0/s1600-h/P8190004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5100455869910198802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsh1lx6NqhI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/GwSyvlZSc-0/s400/P8190004.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p align="center"></a></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;">The Tank Bag</span><br /></p><p align="left">The tank bag, or man purse as I like to call it sometimes, is one of the neatest and most versatile pieces of luggage one can get for the bike. I only have a small one but find it handy for carrying lots of personal items such as gloves, sunglasses, camera, and various other <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">knick</span>-knacks as well as holding a map. I resisted for many years but after acquiring one I really like it.</p><p align="left"><br /></p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsh3ZR6NqiI/AAAAAAAAAKE/Oe_5zYJ6oSw/s1600-h/bag3.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5100457854185089570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsh3ZR6NqiI/AAAAAAAAAKE/Oe_5zYJ6oSw/s400/bag3.bmp" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a><span style="font-size:180%;">Saddlebags</span> </p><p align="left"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Whether</span> you have hard bags or soft bags, this is where most of your gear will go. As you can tell from the picture above I have mine crammed full of camping and cooking gear. I managed to squeeze in a lantern, cook stove, coffee pot, condiments, cutlery, fry pan, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">inflator</span> mug, portable BBQ, and other h<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">andy</span> little items. </p><p align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsh7Yx6NqjI/AAAAAAAAAKM/hdmAhIPGILM/s1600-h/P8190006.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5100462243641666098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rsh7Yx6NqjI/AAAAAAAAAKM/hdmAhIPGILM/s400/P8190006.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;">Trunk and Rear Passenger Seat</span></p><p>The rear passenger seat for me will hold the most amount of gear, including tent, air mattress, camp chair, sleeping bag and clothes bag. Of course this is held all together with a stretchy and versatile cargo net that will hold anything and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">everything</span> in place. If you ride two-up you will not have this option and have to load up your trunk or rear luggage rack.</p><p>In my small trunk I carry my rain suit, snap on visor, tool kit and a few other misc. items </p><p>Smaller is better when it comes to packing items for the back of your motorcycle and with a little practise and a few <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">bungee</span> cords you can tie on all the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">necessities</span> that you will need.<br /><br /></p>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-13006972794987181212007-08-17T13:08:00.000-06:002007-08-19T11:40:31.119-06:00Packing for Motorcycle CampingGetting ready for a five day motorcycle/camping tour to Montana-Idaho and Washington state and it is time to pack the essentials.<br />One tool that I found to be most useful is the <a href="http://www.micapeak.com/checklists/mclist.html">Motorcycle/camping list </a>that can be custom made for yourself.<br />It is available from <a href="http://www.micapeak.com/checklists/mclist.html">Micapeak</a> a very good site for motorcycle enthusiasts, check it out and use this valuable tool to help you pack efficiently.<br /><a href="http://http//www.micapeak.com/checklists/mclist.html"></a>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-88582345787053541132007-07-12T21:44:00.000-06:002007-07-12T22:04:36.779-06:00The Very First MotorcycleIt only happens to you once in a lifetime, and that is the joy of owning your first motorcycle.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rpb2B-8USRI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/t0_iWe7Ecgw/s1600-h/P7120004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5086523343097841938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/Rpb2B-8USRI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/t0_iWe7Ecgw/s400/P7120004.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>It happened for my friend Jayden today and I was quite happy he stopped to give me a look and without hesitation offered me a short test drive. </div><div>I was impressed with the little bike and it was surprisingly comfortable to drive, with an ample seat, automatic drive, and integrated front and rear brakes. The fat bob tires smooth out the ride as it has a rigid suspension with loads of fender clearance.</div><div>It is powered by a 196cc four stroke Honda clone engine, and has a rope start, chain drive, giant headlight and kill switch on the handlebars.</div><div>When Jayden arrived the engine was warm as I think he had been riding the back alleys ever since they got the new bike home.</div><div>There is already talk of some serious modifications, which would include a sissy bar, custom exhaust, and making the bike street legal.</div><div>I think I was in my mid thirties when I got my first bike but I remember my smile was just as broad as Jaydens is today.<br /></div>Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24282238.post-6776060891335363332007-04-29T08:45:00.000-06:002007-04-29T09:08:15.106-06:00Gravel RoadsOnce in a while you will have the fortune, or misfortune, depending on how you look at it to travel down a gravel road with your motorcycle.<br />Gravel and street motorcycles are not that compatible but with a little common sense they can be navigated with ease.<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Sometimes</span> the only access to your destination is by gravel roads and you will not want to bypass it just because of a little gravel.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RjS0QPjE3xI/AAAAAAAAAJs/8mLTj_Wa3jM/s1600-h/abc.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5058866472588467986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_UtWvAmS6LyQ/RjS0QPjE3xI/AAAAAAAAAJs/8mLTj_Wa3jM/s400/abc.jpg" border="0" /></a> The best way to stay upright on a gravel road is to slow down take an ultra light grasp of the bars and let the front end of the motorcycle do its thing.<br />The loose stones on the road will jerk the front tire around and the worst thing you want to do is jerk back or try to man handle the steering. Usually you can follow in the tire tracks of the cars where the loose stones have been pushed to the side and all that is left is the packed base. It is when the tire tracks cross where you will ride over loose stones and your front tire will skip from side to side and this is where the loose hands on the steering comes in, let the front tire jump around a bit and it will correct itself.<br />Gravel road graders usually grade the road by bring the gravel, kicked off to the side, back to the middle of the road to form a crown. So riding close to the ditch will keep you out of the really loose stuff and some times all that is left on the sides is hard pack.<br />At any rate if you are out riding around with no destination try a little patch of gravel riding to practise just in case you find out that you have to challenge a gravel road some day.Silverwingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14793760945572716116noreply@blogger.com3