Sport-touring: A catapult into spring… riding forward

It’s late March on a Friday, I’ve just finished cranking out a few miles on the rat-mill, endorphins are flowing and the weather is cool with just the right wind speed to encourage one to set out on a moto ride. Who could resist? Not I.  Such is the seductive power of smooth tarmac coupled with moto bliss conducive-weather.  Spring is officially here and with it for most riders another official moto-season and another year.

The 250R (aka Scully) has been inspected: fluids, tires and all systems are “go”. It is time to let it do what it does best, let it run just like the unselfconscious child most of us once were.  Twenty-thirteen is here and it is demanding to be experienced not simply plow through, and sport touring is just the means to facilitate such endeavor. My U.S. map still hangs on the wall providing inspiration whenever needed it; the list of destinations is ambitions, as any worthy endeavor ought to be. 

Last year was an eventful one, full of fun rides, exciting adventures and one that saw the final departure of close friends, a catalyst for the present.  Louie Zamperini once said; “ Life is about experiencing all the things you find interesting and fascinating… participate in life”.  I find sport touring fascinating and I intend on participating. What are you waiting for? Go out there and experience reality, exponentially beautiful reality. 

Sport Touring: Common uncertainty…elusive perfection.

It’s early January and around the North East (U.S.) most motos are hibernating in their respective underground dens or garages, with not much else going on I have been looking forward to what has now become (by default) a yearly tradition: The International Moto Show. It’s early Saturday morning; I rolled out bed and on my way to downtown D.C. for my third annual pilgrimage via Metro Rail.

The Show has become a predictable event with the usual vendors and manufactures on hand, attempting to seduce you with their latest products, a conglomerate of exquisitely shaped metal on wheels, beautiful indeed. This past season was my second season with the 250R, and I must admit I have considered the options of what if I upgraded to (fill in the blank)? 

Similarly to most other aspects of quotidian affairs moto enthusiasts tend to continuously assess their moto aspirations, and the Moto Show is one of the best places to reaffirm or challenge your moto selections, and I am far from immune to such whimsical affairs.  I have a strong aversion to large crowds (and bullshit) and usually it only takes less than a couple of hours for me to scan, walk and assess the latest offerings.  This year I walked away really impressed with Honda’s latest offering the new CBR500R, in bright red with ABS of course.

source: www.motorcycleusa.com

It fulfills the 250R’s main shortcoming (at least for my purposes), added horsepower.  When you find yourself Tarmac Surfing on the super slab trying to pass a big rig and there is nothing left on reserve, it is an uneasy feeling. Thus I have considered the alternatives. As I mentioned in previous posts I am a big fan of BMW motos. Fast. Precise. Inspiring, except I am unwilling and unable to absorb the exorbitant price tag.

The CBR500R, on the other hand seems within reach of mere mortals with limited resources, definite bank accounts and everyday constraints, Me.  After ten years of being absent from the sport, common sense dictates that I should be content with my current status and cease to lust after new machinery. But human nature demands that one must continue to question and search for what one considers being, the next best perfect (blank).

I am aware of this fact, yet my unconscious self contradicts every logical thought and surrenders to a primal desire that propels one forward, forward momentum must be maintained figuratively and literally. Existence for most of us on this blue sphere is void of any type of guarantees, the bright fiery star on the horizon will set and rise each day whether one will be there to witness it, is… well uncertain.

 There is only one thing I know when I set out on a tour, and that is I want to Surf, for as long as I am able to claim this privilege.  If one’s existence is limited than time should be exploited.  At higher speeds and revolutions there is not time for hesitation of doubts, there is only time to simply be Be Yourself. Some have asked what is the best bike?, where are the best roads to ride? This is something I’m unable to answer.

After meandering through the aisles of a moto show and surfing the super slabs of the U.S. it is unknown whether the perfect moto and ride exist. What I do know is that every tour has and will be filled with common uncertainty and elusive perfection. This is reality, exponentially beautiful reality.

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Sport touring: …blissful solitude in a quiet realm

I’ve been on the road for two days, now riding north on Interstate 74 in Ohio eagerly awaiting to intersect Indiana State road 46, until finally a road sign directs me to exit and merge on to 46. I’m now approximately 55miles/ 88 km from my destination, Bloomington, IN., I’m exhausted, nearly spent. This is my first tour and already I’ve endured plentiful precipitation, strong winds, unplanned turns, uncertainty and utter silence. When I finally reached my destination I’m almost delirious, I’ve arrived safely, astonishingly! I can hardly stop talking, to my old friends I seemed unrecognizable, but they graciously withheld any criticism and instead welcomed me into their home until I settled down.

A year and a few thousand miles later I’ve learned to embrace the feeling, the feeling one encounters during endless miles and hours on the saddle fully immerse in one’s consciousness with minimal social activity. Humans have yet to discover (or disclosed) whether a time machine exists, however, I believe motos would make decent prototype.  During pre-trip planning, one can try to account for most expected incidents and plan accordingly along with scheduling an early departure; that is the plan. Until the day arrives, time warps and one looses track of it, and is relegated to counting miles in the absence of accurate time perception.

I agree with The Eagles when they sing that one may “look at the stars but still not see the light” and that is the case with time when touring. One may look at the clock and still be unable to discern time. It is actually a beautiful thing. We exists in a society that demands we account for all that we accomplish with titles, awards, wealth, etc. As a result some individuals choose to ignore such notion and truly exist if only for a brief time, through sport touring and remain unaccountable for time.

To the uninformed and uninitiated motorcycling consist of riding a bicycle like machine, although at higher speeds, a semi valid assumption. Except to be able to fully appreciate it one must be willing to embrace the uncertainty of the sport, and that is where the rewards await.  During most of my travels when I have encountered flocks of riders, most of the time they have been on hogs.  It appears sport tourers may be the soloist type, a member of a subculture within a microcosm.

 A rider willing to embark on a potential one way journey for the sheer joy of adventure, self validation, [insert own assumption], alone.  In search of blissful solitude that can only be achieved at higher revolutions, similarly to what most are trying to accomplish: to be yourself albeit at higher speeds. To engage in an affair that will demand the best of you, that is the allure of the road, intoxicating, irresistible and potentially final.

Ultimately,  The Ride will exact a toll on the jockey as a means of admittance into a parallel realm where it all decelerates, where material elements are irrelevant, ambitions rescinded for one must exist in the present. It is far from escapism from quotidian affairs, it is… heighten reality, exponentially beautiful reality. Where the most favorable choice is to simply allow the road to Send Me on my Way (RR). Enjoy the Ride.

Sport touring: Gear update and review

There are a few basic axioms in motorcycling: first, motorcycling will give your wallet a strenuous work out, second: perfect gear is an elusive proposition, and lastly this Lifestyle is inherently [insert own opinion]. I have now logged a few thousand miles (6150/3843km) on my 250R and have gained insight into a few things that I’d like to share, primarily my thoughts on gear.  When I re-started riding in ’10, I was unsure as to how long I was going to ride, thus I considered finding the best gear unnecessary and focused on the basics.  Here is my latest gear review and two cents on the topic.

Aerostich Roadcrafter one-piece suit

Miles < 2000/ 3200 km

I got this suit at the end of spring but did not get to wear it for very long as the temperatures rose rapidly to uncomfortable levels exceeding 90F/32C. Once the climate was more favorable I was able to truly test the suit. The first challenge you will encounter is that the manufacturer’s shop is located in Minnesota, U.S. You will most likely have to order online. They do offer extensive options in order to custom tailor the suit for you. I was fortunate to fit one right off the rack! At 5’6’’, 130, 30 inseam I settled for a 36 long red with black ballistics.

Initially the suit feels heavy and stiff and makes you wonder how are you going to ride in this thing for long distances. However, after a few hundred miles the suit begins to soften and it fits better, like an old pair of gloves. When I started riding I bought a Tourmaster transition jacket and caliber pants. The price seemed reasonable but that was it. The fit was off, it was bulky and claimed to be waterproof but after only one season I experienced a few leaks. I would not recommend it at all.

The Aerostich on the other hand is fully waterproof (Gore-Tex), I have been out in the rain and it has kept me dry, it is also somewhat windproof.  Once the temperature drops around 50F/10C you will feel the cold wind if you have layered improperly. The suit is made of what appears to be high quality materials and after a couple of thousand miles it still looks new. It has plenty of pockets and it has adequate vents along the pits. One of the main advantages of this suit is that it is incredibly easy to put on and take off. The two-piece seems more convenient initially, however, if there is significant probability of one becoming a bowling ball on the interstate, I’d rather be wearing a full suit.

The longest I’ve worn this suit is 10.5 hours straight on my last tour without any significant discomfort. I bought the suit with shoulder, elbow and kneepads only, I’d strongly recommend buying the hip pads and back pads for extra protection. The suit is great but not perfect. I find the sleeve cuffs to be too small to accommodate a gauntlet, and the neck flap fit could be improved. The suit is pricey, but the workmanship so far is solid, and considering its purpose the price seems reasonable. Based on my short ownership so far I’d strongly recommend it. This is my fair weather cold weather moto-suit; I still have not found appropriate summer gear. As I said earlier finding the perfect gear is an elusive proposition.

Picture source: www.Aerostich.com

Alpinestar Scout WP Boots

Mileage <2500/4000 km

These boots are solid. They provided support and protection in key areas (ankle, shin, toes) and are waterproof. I have ridden in steady rain; torrential downpours and these boots have kept my paws dry! I was concern that the rubber sole would wear out faster than expected, but so far it is holding, considering that I rarely walk far in them. They are semi comfortable and I think I’d be able to walk a mile or two. Actually, I have, in order to break them in faster I walked a couple of miles around the neighborhood.  The only concern I have so far is that the padding above my shifting foot has softened a tad and at times I have to reposition my foot in order to find a stiffer surface. Overall I’d recommend these boots.

 Picture source: www.alpinestar.com

Scorpion exo-1000

Mileage <6000/9600 km

I have been riding in this helmet for a while now and have found it to be a solid performer for the price. I have not owned a high-end helmet (e.g. Arai) so am unable to compare it to such. It is comfortable, the fabric breathes well and won’t become soggy with sweat, the dark visor is a plus, and it is fairly quiet (at least it wont howl at high speeds). The shield has a decent anti fog coating that works well as long as one remembers to wipe off the shield with a wet cloth (water only) regularly. Overall, I’d recommend this helmet or its newest version. 

Picture source: www.habayusa.org

Good luck with your search, procure the best gear you can find, trust me it will allow you to Enjoy the Ride.

Sport touring: Tarmac Surfing home at 70 mph, one destination infinite revolutions.

View Larger Map

Distance covered: 1041.5miles/1666.4 km

States crossed: 3

Highest elevation: 3670 feet/1118 meters

Temperature:  50F/10C

It’s 05:30; it’s dark, gloomy and is raining. I only slept a few hours in anticipation of this tour, destination: Asheville, NC. I’m standing at the local petrol station topping off the 250. The odometer reads .5 miles, I feel dishearten, .5 of 479 miles/ 766 km.  However, I’ve experienced this feeling before, this is a critical time when one must overcome complacency and regain one’s bearing. There is a goal in mind, it is time to set out and achieve it.

I have two options: return home and wonder, what if? Or let it roll, I chose the latter. The first 75 miles are tough as usual, the 250 is always in the zone but the Surfer must endure a brief period of uncertainty. It’s foggy and wet; I’m unable to see the road signs. I took an unplanned turn, I must refocus, pause, breathe, at last clarity. I recalled my surfing soundtrack and rolled the throttle full speed ahead.

Shorty, thereafter I spotted two fellow tourers, one on a new Triumph Tiger the other I was unable to identified, we exchanged “road greetings” (a peace sign) I feel reenergized and committed to the Ride. Any previous doubts evaporated and I welcome the uncertainty of the road, today I will surf. I’ve been riding for a few hours; I’m now 40 miles/ 64 km from Asheville. I’m surfing I 26 South bound at the foothill of the Smokey Mountains preparing to climb the mountain, the ride is smooth, I know my destination is near just a few dozen miles… until it all decelerates.

It’s a two-lane expressway, to the left there is a retaining cable, to the right a speeding cage, suddenly a wooden block is bouncing on the road, and it splinters as it hits the ground. There is only one way to go, forward. I see the driver trying to maneuver away from the flying deadly object, somehow he notices me on the left, neither one of us has a favorable out… I can see the block slowly bounce on and off the road, but I’m not afraid.  My consciousness heightened I decelerate and observed… the block rolled under the cage, as the driver hit the brakes, this is it!  My chance to roll out and I accelerated. I will ride another day. 

I finally reached my destination

After a long day on the saddle, it's time to relax

Home for the evening

 It’s now 15:00 and I finally made it to my destination, I’m elated. I checked into the local Hostel, drop off my bags and make my way to the local watering hole, I have a reason to celebrate.  The next day I woke up assuming that I was ready to ride the Tail of the Dragon, except I’m fatigued from the previous ride, and earlier that day I’ve received news that someone from my inner circle had departed this world, my mind wanders. I took another unplanned turn and traveled 25 miles in the opposite direction of the Dragon. I decided that I must heed this sign and turned back.

The Dragon will have to wait, with over 300 turns in ten miles; the odds are clearly against me. I must defer. I intended on spending three days in Asheville, except the temperature is dropping fast and the forecast calls for near freezing weather and that excludes the wind chill factor. It becomes clear now what I must do, another marathon run northbound before the cold front engulfs my chosen path. I enjoyed my brief stay, and just like that I’m back on the road, and once again I was greeted by the morning fog and cold weather.

There is only one favorable decision, embrace it. I slowly begun the climb to Sam’s gap, elevation 3670 feet.  It is a beautiful climb and exceedingly intoxicating descend, that day I surfed down a mountain. On the other side of the mountain the sky was clear the air was cool, the leaf colors vibrant enough to remind you that you are alive.  The descend is steep, the margin for error on a moto cannot be quantify, blink excessively and you will kiss the tarmac. 

I’m now heading northbound in I 81.  I’m surfing at nearly full throttle; it is an extremely windy, cloudy, cool day.  At my first stop, as I top off the tank I realized that I can’t stop shivering and I don’t have any more warm weather gear! But I can’t stop, I won’t stop, I’m coming home. This is a test of fortitude, Semper Fi.

The cages are setting an unforgiving, unrelenting pace exceeding 70 mph/ 112 kph, and the ferocious wind  conspires to sweep me off the tarmac. I’m not worry anymore, the view from my helmet may be limited but my outlook is serene, I tell myself Don’t Panic (Coldplay).  I settled into a rhythm, I can see beyond, beyond myself.  At 70mph I can see every detail, every imperfection and anticipate the discomfort of the road, except I don’t feel anything. I can see the vibrant leaf colors as they announced fall’s arrival, and rejoiced in a shower of leafs.  I can sense the presence of metal cages, and anticipate their lack of judgment. 

The moment that is so elusive, the time is now. In the middle of the highway, away from all that is familiar moto-bliss reveals itself. A reminder that all that matters is the present. The last mile is gone, the next mile may never come, but the road, the feeling I enjoy right now is undeniably axiomatic.  To other motorist I may look like a Simple Man (LS) riding a diminutive moto on a convoluted highway, but right now I am a happy, free man. This is reality, exponentially beautiful reality.

 It’s now 18:00 and after 497.5 miles/796 km I finally crossed the last  traffic light on this trip and triumphantly raised my left arm, and smiled. You may wonder and ask why ride such distance on such ill-suited steed? I’m a Tarmac Surfer, it’s what inspires me. What are you waiting for? Get out there, exist with a purpose and don't wait for me because I’m Already Gone (Eagles). Laugh. Live. Ride.

Along the way I picked up a couple of more touring badges, TN & NC, the evolution continues.

RL may you find your way home.

Sport Touring: The Tarmac Surfer Rises

 Distance: 310 miles/ 496 km
Weather: 55F/13C
Highest MPG: 78.4


View Larger Map

It’s been awhile since the 250R and I have seen the open road and today, well it was time to gear up and set out from my subterranean quarters. The destination: Eastern Maryland.  It’s early Saturday, the temperature is ideal hovering around 55F/13C.  It has been a long hot summer and I have spent an excessive amount of time in this thing we call Concrete Jungle (BM), it’s time to surf, enter the 250R.

As usual trying to leave Mega-metropolis behind it’s a bit challenging, its gravitational pull is fairly strong and it wants to drag me back into the Abyss. Once I reached the Otherside (RHCP) and crossed the Bay Bridge in Annapolis, MD., the cool ocean breeze and salty aroma offer the remedy I’ve been looking for, the highway narrows into a two lane road follow by multiple back roads to choose from, moto bliss is near I can sense it.

I’m not the only one who planned a day near the ocean and I have plenty of company on the road, Ocean City MD, is hosting Bike Week and thousands of moto-pilgrims are making their way to the shoreline. Everywhere I look there are shiny, powerful steeds, I scanned my surroundings in hope of locating another moto minimalist, but no such luck today. It appears I may be the only one riding a 250.

There are too many vehicles on the road and just like a Las Vegas buffet line things begin to slow down, this is not an option for me ,  I must keep moving. I checked the map on my tank bag and plotted a new route, ah beautiful it works and I continued to roll.  One of the things I look for while touring is small towns, I know that one day soon I will relocate and having an extensive knowledge of nice small towns may prove to be helpful, eastern Maryland offers a glimpse of possibilities.

Somewhere along scenic route 16 in eastern MD.

It ‘s now around 14:00 and I have been on the road for a few hours, the saddle feels like concrete bench at  a park  and the fuel tank it’s not the only tank that is running low, I need to find a place to eat and rest. I cruised past Ocean City, MD, on my way to Berlin, MD. A fellow moto enthusiast recommended a brewing company to visit if ever in the area, well, I’m in the area and I’m thirsty, except I will have to take it home.

After running in circles for a few minutes I located the Brewery, secured a couple souvenirs and cruised down main street looking for a place to eat and some sightseeing. Berlin, seemed like a nice town, albeit too nostalgic, I snapped a few shots, geared up and got back on the road, I’m only half way into this trip and it’s already 1600, time to let the 250 do what it does best, let it roll. It’s time for me to get home.

  Scully patiently waiting for me outside the local watering hole. I support my local and distant craft brewery.

The souvenirs, a couple of bottles of Bunker C robust porter (Alc. 6.8% by Vol) aged in bourbon barrels for six months, a special release. Each bottle individually number 183, 179 of 420 respectively.

Main street Berlin, MD. (north side)

Main street Berlin, MD. (south side)

A local biker friendly eatery, at least today.

I come out the restaurant and found the 250 surrounded by a bunch of v twin thugs. Everywhere we went we got add looks, almost as if to say,"dude is that really a touring motorcycle?" to which I'd had replied "why yes, it is and best of all I own it! Merci Beaucoup.

 It was a beautiful day, full of awesome weather, smooth tarmac, nice sightseeing and a few close calls that quickly brought me back to reality! In a time where faux-reality shows are ubiquitous, Comics superheroes have become blockbusters and social media pollutes your mind, Sport touring is reality, exponential beautiful reality. In the end I’d rather be my own superhero, a Tarmac Surfer.  Stop asking yourself, I wonder (SR) if..,[insert own question] go out there create your own reality and Enjoy the Ride. 

Ready to surf.

Sport-touring: and its varying degrees

Sometime ago when I first started looking for a moto (pre 250r) I ran into this guy selling a Yamaha 650, and about the only thing I remember from the conversation is the following “I don’t ride if it is 50F/10C or colder”. I thought that was peculiar, at that time I war eager to get back into riding and here is a guy with two motos unwilling to ride because is a little cold.

Fast forward to today and I’m that guy, except I won’t ride if it is 90F/32C or hotter, and that means the 250R has been parked a lot these days.  After a year of tooling around on the 250 I’ve learned a couple of things, allow me to elaborate.

I mentioned in previous posts that the 250 can handle the Superslab, except what I realize now is that I’d rather avoid the highway and find a back country road to surf.  The bike will do 70mph/112kmh just fine all day long, but in order keep up with traffic one has to go that speed and that leaves nothing in reserve for passing, trust me. Attempting to pass a big semi with almost no power left on tap is a challenging and unnecessarily risky affair.

I’ve also learned that I am a cold weather, and if necessary a wet weather rider. The other day we caught a break in the hot weather, it was unusually cool and a tad wet, I could not resist, I had to go tarmac surfing! There is an alluring element to riding in cold weather (not freezing), at least for me. It was one of the nicest rides thus far this summer.

Many riders look forward to summer as the ideal season for riding, I’m far from an idealist, the weather may dictate when one rides, but for me the state of mind dictates if I ride, and that tends to be when the weather is cool.  That time will soon arrive and when it does I will be back out there. I am a tarmac surfer. Until then keep on “Rocking in the free world” (NY) and Enjoy the Ride.

Sport touring: …just a weekend warrior no more

I once said, “in an ideal world I would be a year-round rider”. I suppose that time has arrived, is it ideal? It all depends on perspective. Due to unforeseen events I had to switch my desk riding location, from one that was moto-unfriendly to one that actually facilitates such indulgence. It has now been five weeks of daily moto-indulgence and I must say it has been… well [you fill in the blank].

Although my commute is only ten miles round trip through mega-metropolis I have found it to be a concurrently intrinsically rewarding, soul agitating experience. For example, during my first week of commuting I went five out five, as in five non-consecutive days of wet tarmac.  For the first five days I rode on wet tarmac, under cloudy skies, light drizzle to full on summer drenching storm, so please don’t ask “Have you ever seen the rain?” (CCR). I’ve seen it and surfed through it.

Monday thru Friday rain or shine the 250 and I will head out to ride the tarmac through this “Wicked Garden” (STP). Only time will tell how long this can be sustained.  In the meantime get out there and Enjoy the Ride.

Sport Touring: Enjoy the Silence, Enjoy the Ride

Miles: 150/ 240 km

This past Saturday, the allure of the open road was irresistible, and like any dedicated moto-pilgrim I set out on to the open Tarmac, due north-west, destination: Gettysburg, PA. I had previously visited Gettysburg last year on my old ride (883L) via super-slab. This time however, I decided to deviate from excessively fast paths and reverted to my true form: decelerated sport touring. Yes, I know it sounds like an oxymoron, you may ask isn’t the whole point of sport touring to travel at an accelerated speed?

It may be for others, however, for me traveling at 55 mph/ 88kph on an undulating State road is Utopia, just like the Eagles, when Tarmac Surfing I prefer to just  “Take it Easy”.  To the uninformed a CBR250R is incapable of epic sport-touring feats, to the rest and few of us whom test our fortitude on such steed, we know it to be a myth.  There are many reasons why I chose the 250R, speed was missing from that list.

It is early Saturday, the weather is ideal, road conditions are conducive to moto-bliss, it’s time, warm up the 250 and let roll. The first 20 miles are a bit annoying as I make my way out of mega-metropolis……until finally the long awaited two-lane road begins to meander through Northern Maryland. Through my limited 170 degrees view I can spot the iconic red barns and the peculiar bovine aroma… it is foul, and it is a welcome relief from the artificial blinding, headache inducing D.C. metro smells.

I have a destination in mind but no other agenda, once I reached my destination I simply turned around and retraced my tracks.  This act may be baffling to some, but to the moto-enthusiast or at least for me, the destination is less relevant than the Ride.  As I meandered through Southern Pennsylvania, my helmet mutes outside noise, and I rely primarily on my vision.  The 250’s single cylinder hums along, the rpms hovered around 5k, in fifth gear, this is where it likes to be. The wind, the humming it all encapsulates your mind, this is where it all decelerates. 

Your field of vision may be limited, but your sense of awareness is heightened.  Suddenly there is a sense of immediacy, and what matters most is what surrounds you.  Your muscle memory takes over, pull the clutch, up-shift, twist the throttle, and lean as the tarmac guides you, a congruent Waltz between man and machine. The miles roll on and now, in the absence of social media and every day constraints one begins to truly “Enjoy the Silence” (DM), and to simply appreciate being.

I have been asked many times why do I ride? Isn’t riding [fill in the blank]?  And once again, I’m unable to answer this proving question. I simply know that tomorrow, while some are “Sitting, waiting, wishing”  (JJ). I will be out Tarmac Surfing. I'm a motorcyclist, it’s what I do, it’s what inspires me. Now go out there, find your inspiration and Enjoy the Ride.

Map

Sport Touring: Gear upgrade and a three legged dog

The warm moto-friendly weather is back and I feel ecstatic. Although I’ve taken a break from blogging I have been riding in the local area, more like awakening from hibernation (muscle memory and reflexes need a touch up). It was a mild winter and now the open road is calling once again, ah what a feeling! I’ve also been taking inventory of my gear and decided that it was time for an upgrade.

I had been riding in an old, really old pair of hiking boots, so old the Gore-tex lining started to fail. Oh, and my gloves, well it is hard to find a good pair of gloves, that will leave your tactile senses unaffected, thus it was hard to let go but it was time. The other day I read a good review on AGV sport Laguna sport gloves and Alpinestar Scout WP boots and decided to give them a try.

First impressions.

The Laguna gloves are priced right and look nice, however, you will find a couple of obstacles to a perfect fit and that is due of course to price point, at this price you are unlikely to find a perfect fitting glove. However, my first impression is that these gloves look nice, are made of thick leather with re-enforcements in all the expected places. I have only gone on short (shakedown) rides and already encountered some issues, primarily the internal finish. There are some spots around the outer wrist that feel sharp and really uncomfortable after a few miles.

I am trying to modify these and still working on cutting and smoothing some of the excess leather to achieve a better fit. Second, although the gloves are labeled small they do fit differently, where my left hand feels snugger than my right hand. It could be intentional or it could be a defect, time will tell. On the upside, everything else about these gloves is nice. I really like the yellow stitching, the added protection of the gauntlet and most importantly the perforated leather around the fingers, a feature that will be greatly appreciated during summer.

The Scout boots are first and foremost practical with an added fashionable benefit of being decent looking. My old riding boots (hiking boots) are made from a combination of fabric and leather with a solid wide Vibram sole. They offered great stability but lacked protection in key areas. I was looking for a solid boot and also ordered the Sidi Adventure Rain, however, as soon as I open the box I was drawn to the Scout. I tend to avoid being an advertising billboard, and the Sidi’s had letters all over them, fit too large and were beyond stiff.

Fortunately, the Scout run true to size and are low key in the advertising department, offer a lot of protection and claim to be waterproof. These boots are stiff and will take awhile before molding to your paws. My first recommendation is learn to control your Moto before riding in Moto specific boots. These things are so stiff right now I have had to readjust my riding style since they’ve slow down my shifting and timing. Something I expect will change once they are broken in. Ultimately only time will tell if these were practical purchases, I will do a long-term review later.


By now you may be still be wondering, dude what’s up with the three legged dog bit?
I was out walking my dog the other and saw a three-legged Pomeranian and thought: I wonder if that dog could have reduced the risk of loosing its leg, would it have done it? As motorcyclist, we accept the risk involved in the sport, and rely on our skills and equipment to increase our success rate on the road, this odd encounter accelerated my intent to inventory my gear and take the necessary steps (pun intended) to upgrade.
Sometimes inspiration or motivation is found in unexpected places, either way heed your intuition, get out there and Enjoy the Ride.

Sport-touring: A work in progress...

If Confucius was around these days, I’m pretty sure he would be a moto-enthusiast and he may be quoted as saying: “A moto-journey of a thousand miles begins with a single mile” or something along those lines. Motorcyclists form their own microcosm, a subculture that deviates from the standard means of transportation and to some extent form of existence.

And similarly to the Macro society we inhabit it encapsulates individuals with different approaches to the sport. Some choose to be commuters, long distance tourers, weekend warriors, dedicated motorheads year-round riders or a combination of the aforementioned. I fall somewhere along weekend warrior and long distance tourer, at least for now, in an ideal world I would be a year-round rider, that is the goal.

This past month marked the completion of yet another yearly cycle of my existence on this blue planet. After a few decades of roaming around this place, yearly cycles become less of a party occasion and more of an assessment event, just like a rest stop when one tours. And the following questions may surface: Is this the intended path? How far is it from point A to point B? Am I on track? All these questions may only cause a bit of anxiety, and so at times it’s best to just roll along…. eliminate self-consciousness and simply ride.

When I first returned to the sport after nearly a ten-year absence, I felt I had to go out and make up for all those years and ride. I soon realized I should slow down literally and figuratively, and simply enjoy. I have now found a nice rhythm and a style that suits my state of mind. If I must identify myself I suppose I’d consider myself a tourer, but fundamentally simply a motorcyclist. My goals and moto-aspirations these days are simple: ride and record the adventures.

This is one of the reasons why I started this blog. The other day I came up with the idea that I should record and display the places I’ve traveled to on my bike, but how? The answer came in the form of stickers, State flag stickers that is. I’m also a Military history fan, and decided to borrow an idea from past military aviators and display the flags on a panel on my 250R, just like they would have displayed number of kills in dogfights. Only time will determine how many stickers I will be able to add to my panel, but that is less relevant than the adventure.

Ultimately, I do agree with Confucius, in that epic journeys begin with a single movement, my journey so far has taken me 3400 miles/ 5440 km, 8 States, and it has been awesome!

Some may think that motorcycling is a dangerous sport, and I agree, but I also ask the following: what isn’t dangerous? Would you rather sit in the safety of your home and wake up tomorrow and wish you had...[fill in the blank]. I won’t have that problem, motorcycling is my life’s passion! What is yours?. Enjoy the Ride!

Sweet, Fast, Naked Motos!

It has now been over a month since the 250R went into hibernation and I must say it has been bearable. As I mentioned in previous posts I used to live in CA where the weather is moto-friendly almost year round. If you can become proficient at navigating the traffic madness you can ride year round. Unfortunately, when I lived in CA I was missing a moto most of the time and missed out on riding, today I have a moto but the weather is less than friendly. I guess as some may sing you can’t always get what you want (RS) Or can you?

If one live in an ideal realm free of constraints (e.g. financial, labor,insert own constraint, time, etc.) I would be writing this blog while on break during an epic-moto trip, before I surf down the Beartooth Highway and drop down from a huge mountain. On my way to climb the going-to-the-Sun road in Glacier National Park, but I am far from an idealist and prefer a realistic approach to my existence.

As a realist I must accept the fact that I still inhabit The Matrix and it is currently excessively cold here! So what does one do when the weather slaps you with leaves, dumps ice flakes on your head and quarantined you inside your living quarters? You go window shopping at the International Motorcycle Show, a moto-enthusiast toy store!

I look forward to going to the show like a pup looks forward to running in the park, and I really enjoyed checking out all the new steeds. Before I went I thought I might walk out there wishing I had a different, bigger, better bike, at the end I walked out feeling pretty happy about my decision to get a 250R. I did find a potential replacement for my 250R should something happen to it. It was rather unexpected, a new 2012 green Kawasaki 650 (see picture below). It looks nice, fast, but most importantly the geometry is more relax and comfortable then the 250’s, although $3500 more expensive, ouch, maybe under ideal circumstances.

Overall it was a good outing, lots of nice shiny rides that would look good in my stable, if I had one. I will never have a stable full of fast, exquisitely contoured metal on wheels, and the weather will always be imperfect in some place, at some time. Some may think that overall it is difficult to get exactly what one wants, a valid assumption if what one desires consist primarily of material things. Fortunately, what I want these days are the intangible rewards that result from being able to enjoy freedom, freedom to roam on my moto…to do what I want Any old time (RS), and at least for now that is within my abilities. What are you waiting for? go out be free and Enjoy the Ride.


Here is a completely bias pictorial report from the show, grab a Brown Ale sit back and and enjoy.

Norton's Cafe Racer.

Triumph's take on the Cafe.

An old brand that refuses to go extinct.

Eric Buell's Super-Steed.

Kawi's Concours land rocket.

Super Ninja 1000+ tarmac scorcher.

Yamaha's 1300 excess sport-touring missile.

Triumph's speed triple naked beast.

Triumph's new too-tall for me Tiger.

250R Ninja apprentice, still running on carburetors.

Almost all new 2012 awesome slime-green 650.

My next go-to green machine (with a set of Givi cases), should anything happen to my 250R.

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.

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.

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.