Saturday, December 17, 2011

Sport Touring: Is it about the journey or the destination? It all depends on perspective.

It is mid December in the North Eastern region of the U.S., temperatures are hovering around 40F/ 4C and that can only signify that good old winter is upon us as well as the end of moto-season, or is it? A significant event indeed in moto world, although not quite as dramatic as REM’s “It’s the End of the World as we know it…” but I do “feel fine” about it. I do feel fine about it only because I don’t view this as the end of the moto season, I think of it as a “rest stop” in this journey called sport touring, punctuated by breaks and scenic detours along the way.

This season has been an exciting beginning for me, I found my way back into motorsports after being absent for a decade and was able to check off an item from my bucket list, I finally went on a Sport touring trip! No, I did not go as far and as long as had envisioned, nor did I ride an overly expensive steed with excess horsepower. I only managed to ride as far as Indiana (from Maryland), on what most would consider a glorified scooter. However, along the way I rediscovered the joy of riding the open tarmac at highway speeds or just chugging along back roads. I also encountered the challenges and dangers of the sport, bad roads and bad weather tested my stamina and determination, and close calls induced self-doubt. Ultimately, for reasons only my fellow moto-enthusiasts can understand, I'm still riding!

Tomorrow Scully will go into hibernation; I will miss her. She has been my “Road tripping” ally (RHCP), and during our short interaction it has never let me down. We have traversed across a few states, through varied terrain and bad weather, and through it all I was never let down. One man, one machine, 3400 miles/ 5440 km and many more to follow, my 250R has delivered, like a loyal friend always ready for the next adventure, no complaints no hesitations.

During these upcoming times of frigid, gloomy weather while Scully sleeps, I will begin to plot our next moto adventures on the U.S. map that hangs on my wall. The destinations are less relevant then the journey, but the list is ambitious. Maryland to California via Route 50, Yellowstone, Glacier National park, Bear tooth Highway, Canada and most importantly my “Mecca”: Northern California Redwood Coast, all in due time.

So you see my fellow moto enthusiast, indeed, it’s all dependent on perspective, at least for me winter is a “rest area”, a time in which to re-asses, plan, plot routes and confirm progress. I will refrain from dwelling in the fact that I’m unable to ride, rather, I will rejoice in the fact that I was able to fulfilled my moto ambitions, visited old friends, saw new places and enjoyed my existence on two wheels! I will go through this winter solo, without my road “ally” Scully, but in the end I know that “…it’s always better when we are together…” (J. Johnson). For this reason I will look forward to the spring, when the sun will shine and the tarmac will entice me to follow its endless path, because for me it’s not always about the destination, or about the journey, it's about The Ride. Until then I will dream of “Californication” (RHCP). Enjoy the Ride.



Ready for Hibernation at a remote, climate controlled subterranean den.

Back to basics, walking home after dropping it off.

To the journey on two wheels.

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Gear Review and updates: First Gear Heated gloves and Slime Moto spare pump.

Ambient temperature 32F/ 0C

Like a craze burger-eating fool after a long night of throwing back a few IPAs, eating some fries trying to squeeze a Heinz bottle running low on ketchup I am trying to squeeze the last few rides out of Moto season 2011. And so I woke up this morning to a sunny, bright but frigid day! The thing is, it was so nice out I could almost hear Bono in the background singing “It’s a beautiful day, don’t let it get away”, and like most dedicated motor heads I had to go out if only for a short stroll…and to test out some gear.

But before we get to the gear let’s go back in time. It’s late one evening back in winter ’09 around 12:30 am; I’m finishing my bus route pulling into the bus depot. I have a three-mile bicycle ride home ahead of me; temps are in the 30’s F/ 1C, no problem right? Except my gloves are useless, I arrived home and what used to be my hands are now ice blocks and they hurt and burn so bad, I considered making my way to the ER fearing if I did nothing I’d surely loose some fingers. Half hour later and warm water and I regained some feeling on my hands and swore that I ‘d never go through that unnecessary agonizing pain again.

Fast-forward to September ’11; before I went on my tour I picked up a pair of First gear heated gloves and today was a perfect day to test them to their full potential. My first impression: heated gloves are a necessary, inconvenient luxury. These things are thick, cumbersome and make you feel insecured about your moto skills at first, like a High School junior trying score a prom date. I geared up, warmed up Scully and we were on our way. My first thought is: wow, my hands are warm! I can feel the temperature differences in a couple of points in my body where the wind was leaking in but not my hands. At least not the top of my hands, my palms did feel a bit cool but nothing uncomfortable. After a while my hands were so comfortably warm that I had to turn the heat off, they worked well around 30F/0C and up to speeds of 40mph/64kph. They're supposed to be water proof but I have not had a chance to fully test that claim. I did find out that if your hands are wet it's almost impossible to get these gloves back on as the liner sticks to the skin.



The part about being inconvenient plays in when you have to figure out how to route the wires and temperature regulator (troller) and connect it all to the bike and yourself. The wires are as inconvenient as an ex-fling who can provide you with some “comfort” but you have to endure the aftermath. So far I run the wires through my sleeves, I rigged the troller with some electrical tape to my left torso (see pic) and coincidentally am able to see the settings through my left mirror when I need to make adjustments. I think they are a bit of a luxury because these are pricey or maybe I’m just a cheap bastard, either way I hope these things last. I don’t plan to ride in any colder weather, so at least for now the gloves are working well. The fit is ok, the workmanship is questionable and durability is to be determined. I will write a long-term report later.

The second item on my list is the Slime pump. I got this pump after getting sick of hunting down a gas station that had an air pump to top off my tires and being extorted for a buck each time, it’s freaking air and I’m buying petrol! Oh wait, what was that? You want another dollar out of me, no thanks. I figured after a few times of pumping my own tires this thing will pay for itself. So far it has worked well and efficiently. It does however vibrate so intensely that if you leave it on the ground you’d think it might brake into pieces.


Lastly, my tank bag has proven to be practical and durable, once again I stuffed this thing with groceries to the max and it held in place for the short ride home. I’d probably not stuff it this way on a long trip since it does become a bit obtrusive, but overall I’m still happy with this purchase and would recommend it if you are in the market for a tank bag. That’s enough rambling for today, if you are in a warm climate what are you waiting for? Get out and Enjoy the Ride.


Sunday, November 27, 2011

In search of: two-lane roads and moto-bliss amidst the madness.

As the inescapable flaky and icy days approach us, warm and sunny days are as scarce as petrol for under $3 a gallon, at least in the U.S. So when such day does arrive you got to…. Well ride it out. By now you may be aware that I enjoy living in a metropolis as much as going to dentist after visiting the local department of motor vehicles to register my moto, but I digress. The day started out unlike most others it was sunny, it was warm and the weather called for 69F! I know, hard to believe in late November but I won’t argue with the weather. It’s time to warm up the 250 and head for a stroll, but where to? The warm weather will only peak for a couple of hours so a cross-state line jaunt is off the schedule; ah I’m brain fucking the idea just get out and ride!

I’m out the door, the 250 feels smooth, the shifting is right on the throttle is responsive, it leans, it stops it cruises along nicely. I’m having a good day in The Matrix but I still have not found what I crave. And then I remember that there is a place near by where the mental fog evaporates, where the antidote to stagnation and boredom exists, albeit in a minute dose. I found this place unintentionally; actually the fellow who sold me my old ride recommended it. This place is inconspicuous to the non-moto enthusiast but to me it is a refuge and a playground. It’s really nothing special when you look at it, it could be anywhere in the U.S. In another realm this road would lead you to a small town, except here it’s within 15 miles of Washington D.C!

It’s probably about 5 miles/ 8km long, but within those miles you can be transported to another place, another state of mind. Where the weather is great the tarmac is decent, cages are scarce and most importantly your mind is free, if only briefly. It reminds me of the beauty of riding, one may ride cross-country, across the state or around the neighborhood for that one elusive moment [insert own thought] and when you find it it’s moto-bliss. It was a great short ride, it made my day, I got home safe pet my boxer pup and was happy I get to ride another day.

There is “Hope” (Jack J.) and so the search for new two-lane roads and moto-bliss whether near or afar goes on, ‘till then Enjoy the Ride.




Thursday, November 24, 2011

Thank you 250R, a “seasonal” random thought.

I’m what some may call the antithesis of a celebrant, so when fall/winter approach and most begin to plan for stuffed bird day, excess and mythical fat man season, I’d much rather find a secular serene realm where to retreat. Ah ha, you say, there is a name for that Mr. "Green". I think it’s great that many will participate in the festivities but for those of us who’d rather be exempt, let us be free of such rituals. Some of us moto enthusiast will follow our own two-lane path.

I suppose it may be that the joy and or experience many seek during these designated times I tend to experience most times I ride my moto, albeit through an inverse approach, allow me to elaborate. I enjoy being in open plains and forested mountainous terrain surrounded by unfamiliar sights instead of familiar disgruntled travel weary individuals. Every time, I return home from a moto-run whether it was a circuit in the neighborhood or cross State lines jaunts I’m grateful that I made it back home and will ride another day.

One can argue my seasonal aversion is based on perspective of either being overtly grateful and generous once year or simply year round? I prefer the latter. So here is to the stuffed bird day, excess and mythical fat man season! Enjoy the Ride.


Thursday, November 10, 2011

A straight line is the shortest distance between point A & B, but it does not always lead to the most scenic destination.

Mileage: 220miles/ 352 km
Ambient temperature: 40F/ 7C


I live in a monolithic Metropolis, and the unrelenting pace of inhabiting it sometimes makes one feel like a wound-up toy that must be set free to run; enter the 250R. The other day I woke up and decided it was a good day to ride out to the Atlantic Ocean via the most direct route I can find, and so I did. I’m from Southern California and while living there I enjoyed the luxury of being able to go to the beach on a whim, whether it was via bus, car, Moto, on my road bike, even running along the shoreline by El Segundo, CA. When I lived in Northern California I was afforded an even better luxury, the beautiful Redwood forested foggy north coast, but I digress, let’s get back to Sport-touring on the 250R.

With the temperature hovering around 45F/7C, I set out due East early morning, I have three layers on, and my heated gloves stashed in my tank bag just in case. The ride starts out slow, riding through the city onto highway 50 Eastbound across the Bay Bridge in Annapolis, MD. until I finally reached the other side where the two-lane road begins…. sweeping turns and smooth tarmac, Ah relief.

It’s amazing how tranquil the ride was and how much the area reminded me of the Midwest U.S., with lots of farms, barns, John Deer tractors and small main streets. I have a Maryland map but not a Delaware map, I’m winging it, I have enough fuel, water and a snack in my bag, it’s time to just “ Let it roll”. I know I’m close to the water I can sense it now, I’ve just got to find the back road that will lead me to the water. For a moment I became distracted by this road sign, there is a sweeping left turn on the road, oh, wait, stop reading it! It was not a close call but I did have to perform a dirt track like maneuver dropping my left foot, leaned hard left to get back on track and avoid the ditch, no problem I got this.

Finally, after meandering through Delaware I reached my destination The Atlantic Coast near Slaughter Beach, via a non-tourist outlet (see pictures). By the time I arrived the fog was ubiquitous, it was low tide and eerily silent. I could not see or hear the waves. By now you are thinking bummer, you rode all the way out there and there is not much to see! I know, but I went there simply for the salty ocean smell and the engulfing fog that I find to be serene. And you may ask why ride to a point less destination? It was a beautiful day and because on occasion when I ride for the simple joy of riding it feels like the “time of your life” (GD).

My first State crossing sign.

My view to the South.


My view to the North.

My view inland.

Side note: one of the best ways to end a moto-ride, pizza, tea, baked goods.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Gear Review: Moto Tank bag

I have been tooling around on the 250 for about three months now and some things are beginning to flow, such as carrying gear atop the gas tank. I currently use First Gear’s Silverstone Tank bag II, I got this bag based on another 250 rider recommendation and it turn out to be right on. I have now used this bag for over 2500 miles and I would definitely recommend it, based on the following: First, it is an ideal size for the 250, second: it’s versatile and practical and third: it looks decent on the bike.

The 250 holds what sounds to be a measly 3.3 gallons of fuel, thus the tank is rather small in comparison to other bikes. However, that becomes irrelevant once one discovers that the bike provides freakishly efficient fuel consumption. The bag measures approximately 13Lx8Wx6H and its expandable to about 7 inches, it attaches to the tank via four magnets, two large up front and two small out back. This is an excellent combination and they hold the bag in place at both high and low speeds. I have loaded this bag almost to capacity (gloves, food, maps, water, phone, adapters, coins, iPod, sun glasses) even carried a half gallon of milk and the magnets did not budge!

This bag has multiple practical features such as the clear top pocket for maps, three outside pockets, three different carrying styles, a detachable clear map case and a rain cover with a clear top that allows one to view the map inside the bag’s pocket. The bag includes a carrying handle obviously, but there are also backpack style straps that free up your hands to carry a helmet. etc. There is also a shoulder strap if you want to carry it like a man-purse (I prefer the backpack feature). And if for some reason you don’t want to bring the bag you can detach the base and bring it as map storage only.

The bag is firm and holds its shape when empty, is made of durable materials but is not waterproof. The rain cover does a decent job at keeping your items dry. There are only a couple of drawbacks when choosing this bag, first the price is a bit high and it does not include a water reservoir, (this may be a matter of personal preference). I’ve since added a Camelbak 3 liter reservoir and makes for a good combination on long trips and hot summer days. I usually prefer to avoid carrying items on my back and this Bag serves as a good alternative.

How do I know is the right size or at least sufficiently large? Well, if it does not fit in it maybe I don’t need to bring it along; it’s a bike after all not a wagon. I’ve included a few pictures to highlight some of its features.







Sunday, October 9, 2011

A Sunday Moto-stroll to Northern Virginia

Woke up this morning and the weather was excellent, the 250 was ready to roll and the road was calling. What should one do? Simply Ride. I obliged and went on a Sunday stroll, and a solemn walk through the grounds of the USMC National Museum. Here are a few pictures from the visit, think of it as your personal virtual tour.







































Semper Fidelis.

Friday, October 7, 2011

Moto-Touring: How it all started, meet the 250’s predecessors.

I normally prefer to forge and create new memories but sometimes I will take a duly nostalgic walk down moto-lane. Most of us have fond memories of events that served as the catalyst for our present reality [fill in the blank]. Some of my fondest memories include my initiation into moto-sports. I’ve always been fascinated with two wheels, but I’m unable to recall the exact moment I decided that I must have a Motobike. Join me; grab a Pale Ale let’s walk.

Undeterred by the risk involved in the sport, I signed up for my local MSF course in Southern, CA. I easily passed the course and was on my way to obtaining my M endorsement, fast-forward two years to January 00’, and I met Blondie (aka 00’ yellow 883 sportster). It had been two years since my MSF course but I was determined to ride, and went out and got me a shiny new Ride, some may call it a quarter life crisis.

It took a few weeks before I could ride on the super slab and eventually I did, and it was exhilarating! I spent many lunch breaks and weekends riding around So Cal., up and down The Sunset strip,Los Feliz Boulevard, Melrose avenue, Hollywood Boulevard, Mulholland Highway, Los Angeles Crest, Malibu, Ojai, Pacific Coast Highway, San Diego and along the Coast near Santa Barbara. It had always been my goal to moto-tour and back then I went on my first overnight moto trip to Morro Bay, CA. It was a short trip but it cemented my interest in touring. However, Moto bliss ended soon after that trip, as I had to return to school and Blondie and I parted ways. With only 6500 miles/10,400km on the odometer it was a tough decision.

For the next ten years I meandered through the shiny, waxy aisles of various moto dealers, daydreaming and plotting my next two wheel rendezvous. After various moves across the States due to either miscellaneous or important reasons I landed in Maryland, U.S., and was finally able to afford another ride. And that’s when I met Ed (aka 07’ Gray 883L Sportster). Unfortunately, just like in dating some interactions are only temporary.

Ed was extremely utilitarian, handled poorly; lacked acceptable suspension and the quality of the ride was far from safety or confidence inspiring. Once again my steed and I parted ways, except this time I was glad. This road trip only lasted 1300miles/2080km. Fortunately, by then I had decided to get off the Hog, made in the U.S. wagon and was determined to find a ride that complimented my riding style, moto-touring aspirations and most importantly, my budget. And that’s how I met Scully and how this Blog was started, Enjoy the Ride.

Blondie, Circa 2000 near Morro Bay, CA.


View Larger Map


Mr. Ed, 04/2011, at Quantico, VA., paying homage to the Leathernecks,
Semper Fi.


View Larger Map

Sunday, September 25, 2011

Sport-touring gear set up: A complicated yet fun endeavor.

With only one tour under my helmet, I’m still a Sport-touring neophyte, and am still trying to figure out what gear combination will work best while on the tarmac. There is one thing that I have figured out rather quickly and that is: less is more. Less gear reduces worries about loosing it or having someone borrow it indefinitely, however, a dilemma remains as to exactly what gear to bring along.

The following pictures include some of the gear that I have taken with me on trips. I will also include a few words as to how this gear has performed. I hope that you will find this useful and maybe even aid you in deciding what to include in your set up.



These are the basics and some miscellaneous. I bring three pairs of gloves: one is waterproof/heated (Firstgear), one is a regular leather with carbon fiber inserts, and one is leather with fabric. I bought the last pair at a hardware store, after getting tired of my leather gloves soaking up water and being damp. These dry fast, provide almost no protection, but I figure if am Tarmac Surfing in the interstate at 65 mph/ 104 kph in the rain, I have bigger things to worry about.

The small piece of wood is for the bike stand for those times when parking the bike on soft surfaces along with a Kryptonite disc lock for security.  There is also the mandatory O-ring safe chain lube to keep her running smoothly, spare set of keys attached to an oversize carabiner (idiot proofing), lodging paper directories and paper maps. I admit paper sounds antiquated, until the idiot phone breaks or disappears, and since I don't carry a regular GPS (personal preference) paper serves as a back up. Finally, lots of bungee cords and my moto-journal.

The intended set up with the three season 0 degree sleeping bag stored in a Seattle sports dry bag, a three season one person free standing tent and sleeping pad on top.

The actual set up. Almost the same as above except the tent is now inside the saddle bag, the bag is now covered with a reflective vest for added visibility, and secured with a net that proved to be invaluable.

The preferred set up. This time without camping gear and only the essentials; although I like to camp, the gear is bulky and takes lots of space, as you can see from the almost bursting saddlebags. I prefer to load these lightly for safety purposes obviously, and because it saves room for souvenirs (moto-shirts, Micro-brews, etc.) along the way.

The tankbag and saddlebags are First Gear Silverstone. So far I have no complaints, these are practical holding more than enough gear and look decent on the bike. These are not waterproof so I resorted to stashing my gear inside large heavy duty waste bags and small size ziploc bags, and thus far kept my gear dry.

I carry a 3 Liter Camel Back reservoir in my tank bag; so far I only had a need for 1.5 liters. If you look closely you will see the cable that runs from under the seat to the tank bag. That’s my power source, a Tender female connector that links to the phone's cigarette lighter cable, and voila! The phone (or iPod) is fully charge by the time I reached my destination.


Under the seat I carry a Slime moto spare that consists of an air pump and a tube of slime to seal a puncture. These two items fit perfectly under the seat, although I placed them in zip lock plastic bags, since water WILL reach under the seat when riding in the rain.

I bought these items based on favorable online reviews and fortunately I have not needed it thus far. As you can see from the picture, the battery tender cable can be plug to either the heat troller (regulator) for the gloves, to the air pump, or the Tender female power adapter (only one item at time). I have not had a chance to fully test the heated gloves on the field, but the power connection works wells and the gloves heat up nicely.

Rider's gear. I currently wear a Scorpion exo 1000 helmet. It's proven to be really comfortable and quiet. The only issue I had is that after six months the anti fog coating has worn off. I found this out on a cloudy rainy morning while on the Interstate.
The jacket is the transition 2 and the pants are Caliber both from Tourmaster. They are supposed to be waterproof, however, the jacket does not have a hood so I have to wear a Gore-Tex parka over it. Otherwise water leaks from under the helmet. The jacket is most likely waterproof, but the outer fabric absorbs water faster than SpongeBob making it even heavier than original.

The pants have worked well, they have kept me dry, although the fit is not the best the finish is fine and are baggy enough that one can wear street clothes underneath. Both pants and jacket have armor in the crucial areas. At the moment I'm researching other options such as a one-piece suit or a two-piece suit from a different manufacturer. For footwear, I've been wearing a pair of old Gore-Tex lined hiking boots that need to be replaced, as they are not longer waterproof. I found this out on the last trip, bummer. I'm not sure yet as to what I will replace them with.

On the trip I make sure to carry coins and cash for the unlikely toll roads and gas station in small towns where credit cards are seldom accepted. Lastly, for added peace of mind I signed up for AMA road assistance, in addition to my insurance company's, as well as added trip interruption benefits, and comprehensive coverage to my bike.
If you have any suggestions about gear/set up alternatives or questions about my gear, etc., feel free to send email. Ride safe and Enjoy the Ride.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

2500 mile update: Interstate impressions and road mannerism

I’ve now owned my 250 for almost two months and logged a few miles on it. Most of these miles have been at interstate speeds, so I thought I would share my experiences with those out there in motto- world that are still debating whether this bike can handle the super slab. It’s an axiom that this bike is not really intended for sport touring, however, some of us will defy engineers and push the limits of the 250, or is it the inverse? So how does the bike handle the Interstate? I’d say rather well. I’ve ridden the 250 through thunder storms while being passed by semis, light rain, strong head winds, up and down hills (up to 3585 ft / 1092 m) at times in the fog, up to 75 mph/ 120 kph fully loaded (+- 80 kg). And the 250 has delivered and impressed me with its subtle capabilities.


But is it comfortable you asked? I will say up to x distance, depending on terrain and rider stamina. Riding the 250 long distances at interstate speeds demands; fortitude, commitment and a positive mind set, the bike is rather light and wind shifts will affect its trajectory, thus it will require continuous rider input. Wind conditions will have a direct impact on ride quality, it’s unavoidable. The lower fairing provides adequate wind protection; the windscreen on the other hand leaves you exposed at high speeds, offering little protection. The rider has only a few options, full tuck or half tuck if you happen to have a tank bag that hinders a full tuck, or a bigger screen. At times I felt like I was in a boxing match taking direct jabs from the wind right on the face, resulting in my head flailing to the right and left repeatedly. Other times (few) I felt I had to really, really lean into the wind to be able to stay on my lane, a disturbing feeling.


The geometry of the bike (although relax by sport standards) places a lot of stress on the lower/upper back and neck requiring shifting of body positioning. The stock saddle is surprisingly comfortable for looking and feeling firm. My longest day on the saddle was 415 miles/ 664 km and I did not experience major issues during the ride. Sure, I had to shift sitting positions to relieve pressure points, but that is expected. The bike’s suspension and steering tracked really well, and at high speeds on smooth tarmac the 250 glides smoother than an electric monorail, the bike feels positively solid and at high speeds only minor weight shifts will carry you on your intended path. Even while fully loaded the suspension (at factory settings) handled road imperfections well, and trust me there were a lot!


Overall, considering the 250 is being utilized for something other than its primary [commuting] purpose, if one has realistic expectations and copious stamina the 250 will make a stupendous tourer. Would I change anything on the 250? So far, I can’t think of anything. I did want heated grips but instead I purchased heated gloves. Other than that I’m pretty satisfied with my purchase and the bike’s performance. Two things will make the ride more enjoyable: one will be to log more miles and consequently build more stamina, second; having the right cold/wet weather gear.

Friday, September 16, 2011

MD to Skyline Drive: 105 miles/ 168 km of undulating, twisting tarmac.


Miles covered: 380/608 km
Days riding: 2
Highest elevation: 3585 feet/ 1092 m


I concluded the second part of my Moto tour with a trip to Skyline drive in Shenandoah National Park, VA. There isn’t much to be said about riding Skyline Drive that hasn’t already been expressed. Here is a moto-enthusiast feeble pictorial attempt at capturing the experience. Sit back, grab an IPA and Enjoy the Ride.

Early morning at the gate to the park, the weather was great, sunny and cool, cages were scarce, with more than a few motos around. The tarmac was smooth and mostly free of debris. Moto Bliss.


The bike is warm up and ready to roll. With a 35 mph/56 kph speed limit within the park, there is plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. It was so relaxing I found myself yawning a few times.


There are many look out spots along the route, and although the weather was sunny and clear there was a blue Haze that hangs over the mountains in the distance.


A Rider's view, sweet.


More Haze and tarmac.


There is a beautiful valley in the distance.



More of that smooth, seductive path.


Her name is "Naked Lady", one of the many motos on the drive,except this one stood out.



Later on at the campground. The pumps are for decor only.



Home for the evening. This was just outside the southern point of the park at a private campground.


There was a half mile drive on gravel in order to reach the cabin. Nothing like a good old gravel road at the end of the ride to "wake you up".


The ride back home. There aren't easy routes home (D.C./Maryland Metro area) and riding on Constitution avenue feels like you are in The Matrix with plenty of sentinels along the way. And you most likely will have to perform some crazy maneuver-think Neo-moto- to get through this madness.


Sport Touring Moto-bagdes.