Well, after working a bit and saving a bit of dough, i am off to ausiland and New ZeaLand via Singapore. I got a great price on the tickets which will have me leaving on feb 1 and comming back some time in april. I have gotten an flexible ticket, but suspect that i will not be needing it longer than two months. The first 4 days will be in singapore, then i will be spending about a week or two in Oz, then a small flight to NZ, and a return home from auckland.
I am very excited. As well, i am going to be remideing my tent condensation problem by simply getting a new and more propper tent. The other tent was good for sunny warm days, but wont get me through this trip for sure as I will be doing lots of hiking and playing in remote places.
Stay tuned!
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Newzealand In January - The preparation begins...
Ahhh finally, after many days and possibly weeks of indecision and passing the back back and forth between the brother and myself, we have decided to head to New Zealand for January.
We have heard great things about the country, and have decided to hostel and backpack it, so that should cut down on costs dramaticly. I am going to find work for the next 2 months in whatever job i can find, regardless of how much it may suck, and then off to the kiwis.
As for distance, i can honestly say that Newzealand, may be the farthest i will get for some time. With only southern africa, india, parts of china and russia being farther away.
I am stoked. Dispite the extraordinary ticket costs, I think this will be an adventure to remember.
More Later
We have heard great things about the country, and have decided to hostel and backpack it, so that should cut down on costs dramaticly. I am going to find work for the next 2 months in whatever job i can find, regardless of how much it may suck, and then off to the kiwis.
As for distance, i can honestly say that Newzealand, may be the farthest i will get for some time. With only southern africa, india, parts of china and russia being farther away.
I am stoked. Dispite the extraordinary ticket costs, I think this will be an adventure to remember.
More Later
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
There and back again PT 2
The weather had been the worst i had seen, and in a car i would have been fine to take it slow, but on a motorcycle, it was time to pull over. I checked the weather when i dried off in a hotel room, and decided that since there were storm warnings for the next few days, i would call the brother and cash in my return ticket home via the truck.After chatting with the bro, i fell asleep, and the next morning, after his arrival, we loaded the bike up onto the truck, and headed home.I thought the adventure would be over there, but we decided to take the ferry from Port Angeles in washington (near olympic national park) over to victoria, then the ferry from sidney to white rock, and then we drove home. Inbetween we visited both washington, and BC's capital cities, and were impressed by the architecture.We drove all night through the rain over the coquahala, and only the next day did i hear that there was a weather warning for BCs coast.All in all, it was a good trip. A little shorter than i had originally planned, but I think it was just right. I have some $$$ left over in the bank account, and i think that maybe saving it for a trip across canada this summer like i had originally planned is in order.Well, thanks for checking up on me. Sorry i couldnt post more pix. But i will get to those later, after I am all rested up.
There and back again PT1
Well, it has been a very fun trip. I cant say that i got as far as i wanted, because it was VERY cold in arizona. I yet again had to scrape ice off of my seat, and the drive through nevada had been insane near salt lake city. Try as i might, you cant compete with being so cold that your hands wont work the throttle and clutch. So in flagstaff arizona, afterseeing the giant redwoods, the oregon coast, most of california, the boneville saltflats, the northern side of the grand canyon, and most of the deserts in utah, arizona, and californina, i decided to turn around. It was a hard decision, but i think the right one.I spent a day or so contemplating the turn around, but after driving 5 days through the desert from the top of cali, to utah, and down through arizona, i decided that i could not handle driving across texas. It was becomming more of a marithon than a sight seeing tour, and i was paying for the visual experience, not the preteige of a sore rear and an empty bank account. So, the decision was made to return via the highway south of vegas and through cali.THe trip back was jsut as much fun, as i made sure to pick a route that i had not traveled before. Sticking mostly to the highway, i can say that the sacramento valley reminds me alot of home or of kelowna valley as there are lots of orchards and vinyards.Eventually after a number of days of hard riding i worked my way up to chehalis washington, right below seattle. THe past few days of weather had been pounding rain and scary mountain passes that reminded me alot of the coquahala, and almost cold enough to snow.At that point, I could not go any further.
There and back again
Well, it has been a very fun trip. I cant say that i got as far as i wanted, because it was VERY cold in arizona. I yet again had to scrape ice off of my seat, and the drive through nevada had been insane near salt lake city. Try as i might, you cant compete with being so cold that your hands wont work the throttle and clutch. So in flagstaff arizona, afterseeing the giant redwoods, the oregon coast, most of california, the boneville saltflats, the northern side of the grand canyon, and most of the deserts in utah, arizona, and californina, i decided to turn around. It was a hard decision, but i think the right one.
I spent a day or so contemplating the turn around, but after driving 5 days through the desert from the top of cali, to utah, and down through arizona, i decided that i could not handle driving across texas. It was becomming more of a marithon than a sight seeing tour, and i was paying for the visual experience, not the preteige of a sore rear and an empty bank account. So, the decision was made to return via the highway south of vegas and through cali.
THe trip back was jsut as much fun, as i made sure to pick a route that i had not traveled before. Sticking mostly to the highway, i can say that the sacramento valley reminds me alot of home or of kelowna valley as there are lots of orchards and vinyards.
Eventually after a number of days of hard riding i worked my way up to chehalis washington, right below seattle. THe past few days of weather had been pounding rain and scary mountain passes that reminded me alot of the coquahala, and almost cold enough to snow.
At that point, I could not go any further. The weather had been the worst i had seen, and in a car i would have been fine to take it slow, but on a motorcycle, it was time to pull over. I checked the weather when i dried off in a hotel room, and decided that since there were storm warnings for the next few days, i would call the brother and cash in my return ticket home via the truck.
After chatting with the bro, i fell asleep, and the next morning, after his arrival, we loaded the bike up onto the truck, and headed home.
I thought the adventure would be over there, but we decided to take the ferry from Port Angeles in washington (near olympic national park) over to victoria, then the ferry from sidney to white rock, and then we drove home. Inbetween we visited both washington, and BC's capital cities, and were impressed by the architecture.
We drove all night through the rain over the coquahala, and only the next day did i hear that there was a weather warning for BCs coast.
All in all, it was a good trip. A little shorter than i had originally planned, but I think it was just right. I have some $$$ left over in the bank account, and i think that maybe saving it for a trip across canada this summer like i had originally planned is in order.
Well, thanks for checking up on me. Sorry i couldnt post more pix. But i will get to those later, after I am all rested up.
I spent a day or so contemplating the turn around, but after driving 5 days through the desert from the top of cali, to utah, and down through arizona, i decided that i could not handle driving across texas. It was becomming more of a marithon than a sight seeing tour, and i was paying for the visual experience, not the preteige of a sore rear and an empty bank account. So, the decision was made to return via the highway south of vegas and through cali.
THe trip back was jsut as much fun, as i made sure to pick a route that i had not traveled before. Sticking mostly to the highway, i can say that the sacramento valley reminds me alot of home or of kelowna valley as there are lots of orchards and vinyards.
Eventually after a number of days of hard riding i worked my way up to chehalis washington, right below seattle. THe past few days of weather had been pounding rain and scary mountain passes that reminded me alot of the coquahala, and almost cold enough to snow.
At that point, I could not go any further. The weather had been the worst i had seen, and in a car i would have been fine to take it slow, but on a motorcycle, it was time to pull over. I checked the weather when i dried off in a hotel room, and decided that since there were storm warnings for the next few days, i would call the brother and cash in my return ticket home via the truck.
After chatting with the bro, i fell asleep, and the next morning, after his arrival, we loaded the bike up onto the truck, and headed home.
I thought the adventure would be over there, but we decided to take the ferry from Port Angeles in washington (near olympic national park) over to victoria, then the ferry from sidney to white rock, and then we drove home. Inbetween we visited both washington, and BC's capital cities, and were impressed by the architecture.
We drove all night through the rain over the coquahala, and only the next day did i hear that there was a weather warning for BCs coast.
All in all, it was a good trip. A little shorter than i had originally planned, but I think it was just right. I have some $$$ left over in the bank account, and i think that maybe saving it for a trip across canada this summer like i had originally planned is in order.
Well, thanks for checking up on me. Sorry i couldnt post more pix. But i will get to those later, after I am all rested up.
There and back again
Well, it has been a very fun trip. I cant say that i got as far as i wanted, because it was VERY cold in arizona. I yet again had to scrape ice off of my seat, and the drive through nevada had been insane near salt lake city. Try as i might, you cant compete with being so cold that your hands wont work the throttle and clutch. So in flagstaff arizona, afterseeing the giant redwoods, the oregon coast, most of california, the boneville saltflats, the northern side of the grand canyon, and most of the deserts in utah, arizona, and californina, i decided to turn around. It was a hard decision, but i think the right one.
I spent a day or so contemplating the turn around, but after driving 5 days through the desert from the top of cali, to utah, and down through arizona, i decided that i could not handle driving across texas. It was becomming more of a marithon than a sight seeing tour, and i was paying for the visual experience, not the preteige of a sore rear and an empty bank account. So, the decision was made to return via the highway south of vegas and through cali.
THe trip back was jsut as much fun, as i made sure to pick a route that i had not traveled before. Sticking mostly to the highway, i can say that the sacramento valley reminds me alot of home or of kelowna valley as there are lots of orchards and vinyards.
Eventually after a number of days of hard riding i worked my way up to chehalis washington, right below seattle. THe past few days of weather had been pounding rain and scary mountain passes that reminded me alot of the coquahala, and almost cold enough to snow.
At that point, I could not go any further. The weather had been the worst i had seen, and in a car i would have been fine to take it slow, but on a motorcycle, it was time to pull over. I checked the weather when i dried off in a hotel room, and decided that since there were storm warnings for the next few days, i would call the brother and cash in my return ticket home via the truck.
After chatting with the bro, i fell asleep, and the next morning, after his arrival, we loaded the bike up onto the truck, and headed home.
I thought the adventure would be over there, but we decided to take the ferry from Port Angeles in washington (near olympic national park) over to victoria, then the ferry from sidney to white rock, and then we drove home. Inbetween we visited both washington, and BC's capital cities, and were impressed by the architecture.
We drove all night through the rain over the coquahala, and only the next day did i hear that there was a weather warning for BCs coast.
All in all, it was a good trip. A little shorter than i had originally planned, but I think it was just right. I have some $$$ left over in the bank account, and i think that maybe saving it for a trip across canada this summer like i had originally planned is in order.
Well, thanks for checking up on me. Sorry i couldnt post more pix. But i will get to those later, after I am all rested up.
I spent a day or so contemplating the turn around, but after driving 5 days through the desert from the top of cali, to utah, and down through arizona, i decided that i could not handle driving across texas. It was becomming more of a marithon than a sight seeing tour, and i was paying for the visual experience, not the preteige of a sore rear and an empty bank account. So, the decision was made to return via the highway south of vegas and through cali.
THe trip back was jsut as much fun, as i made sure to pick a route that i had not traveled before. Sticking mostly to the highway, i can say that the sacramento valley reminds me alot of home or of kelowna valley as there are lots of orchards and vinyards.
Eventually after a number of days of hard riding i worked my way up to chehalis washington, right below seattle. THe past few days of weather had been pounding rain and scary mountain passes that reminded me alot of the coquahala, and almost cold enough to snow.
At that point, I could not go any further. The weather had been the worst i had seen, and in a car i would have been fine to take it slow, but on a motorcycle, it was time to pull over. I checked the weather when i dried off in a hotel room, and decided that since there were storm warnings for the next few days, i would call the brother and cash in my return ticket home via the truck.
After chatting with the bro, i fell asleep, and the next morning, after his arrival, we loaded the bike up onto the truck, and headed home.
I thought the adventure would be over there, but we decided to take the ferry from Port Angeles in washington (near olympic national park) over to victoria, then the ferry from sidney to white rock, and then we drove home. Inbetween we visited both washington, and BC's capital cities, and were impressed by the architecture.
We drove all night through the rain over the coquahala, and only the next day did i hear that there was a weather warning for BCs coast.
All in all, it was a good trip. A little shorter than i had originally planned, but I think it was just right. I have some $$$ left over in the bank account, and i think that maybe saving it for a trip across canada this summer like i had originally planned is in order.
Well, thanks for checking up on me. Sorry i couldnt post more pix. But i will get to those later, after I am all rested up.
There and Back Again
Well, it has been a very fun trip. I cant say that i got as far as i wanted, because it was VERY cold in arizona. I yet again had to scrape ice off of my seat, and the drive through nevada had been insane near salt lake city. Try as i might, you cant compete with being so cold that your hands wont work the throttle and clutch. So in flagstaff arizona, afterseeing the giant redwoods, the oregon coast, most of california, the boneville saltflats, the northern side of the grand canyon, and most of the deserts in utah, arizona, and californina, i decided to turn around. It was a hard decision, but i think the right one.
I spent a day or so contemplating the turn around, but after driving 5 days through the desert from the top of cali, to utah, and down through arizona, i decided that i could not handle driving across texas. It was becomming more of a marithon than a sight seeing tour, and i was paying for the visual experience, not the preteige of a sore rear and an empty bank account. So, the decision was made to return via the highway south of vegas and through cali.
THe trip back was jsut as much fun, as i made sure to pick a route that i had not traveled before. Sticking mostly to the highway, i can say that the sacramento valley reminds me alot of home or of kelowna valley as there are lots of orchards and vinyards.
Eventually after a number of days of hard riding i worked my way up to chehalis washington, right below seattle. THe past few days of weather had been pounding rain and scary mountain passes that reminded me alot of the coquahala, and almost cold enough to snow.
At that point, I could not go any further. The weather had been the worst i had seen, and in a car i would have been fine to take it slow, but on a motorcycle, it was time to pull over. I checked the weather when i dried off in a hotel room, and decided that since there were storm warnings for the next few days, i would call the brother and cash in my return ticket home via the truck.
After chatting with the bro, i fell asleep, and the next morning, after his arrival, we loaded the bike up onto the truck, and headed home.
I thought the adventure would be over there, but we decided to take the ferry from Port Angeles in washington (near olympic national park) over to victoria, then the ferry from sidney to white rock, and then we drove home. Inbetween we visited both washington, and BC's capital cities, and were impressed by the architecture.
We drove all night through the rain over the coquahala, and only the next day did i hear that there was a weather warning for BCs coast.
All in all, it was a good trip. A little shorter than i had originally planned, but I think it was just right. I have some $$$ left over in the bank account, and i think that maybe saving it for a trip across canada this summer like i had originally planned is in order.
Well, thanks for checking up on me. Sorry i couldnt post more pix. But i will get to those later, after I am all rested up.
I spent a day or so contemplating the turn around, but after driving 5 days through the desert from the top of cali, to utah, and down through arizona, i decided that i could not handle driving across texas. It was becomming more of a marithon than a sight seeing tour, and i was paying for the visual experience, not the preteige of a sore rear and an empty bank account. So, the decision was made to return via the highway south of vegas and through cali.
THe trip back was jsut as much fun, as i made sure to pick a route that i had not traveled before. Sticking mostly to the highway, i can say that the sacramento valley reminds me alot of home or of kelowna valley as there are lots of orchards and vinyards.
Eventually after a number of days of hard riding i worked my way up to chehalis washington, right below seattle. THe past few days of weather had been pounding rain and scary mountain passes that reminded me alot of the coquahala, and almost cold enough to snow.
At that point, I could not go any further. The weather had been the worst i had seen, and in a car i would have been fine to take it slow, but on a motorcycle, it was time to pull over. I checked the weather when i dried off in a hotel room, and decided that since there were storm warnings for the next few days, i would call the brother and cash in my return ticket home via the truck.
After chatting with the bro, i fell asleep, and the next morning, after his arrival, we loaded the bike up onto the truck, and headed home.
I thought the adventure would be over there, but we decided to take the ferry from Port Angeles in washington (near olympic national park) over to victoria, then the ferry from sidney to white rock, and then we drove home. Inbetween we visited both washington, and BC's capital cities, and were impressed by the architecture.
We drove all night through the rain over the coquahala, and only the next day did i hear that there was a weather warning for BCs coast.
All in all, it was a good trip. A little shorter than i had originally planned, but I think it was just right. I have some $$$ left over in the bank account, and i think that maybe saving it for a trip across canada this summer like i had originally planned is in order.
Well, thanks for checking up on me. Sorry i couldnt post more pix. But i will get to those later, after I am all rested up.
There and Back Again
Well, it has been a very fun trip. I cant say that i got as far as i wanted, because it was VERY cold in arizona. I yet again had to scrape ice off of my seat, and the drive through nevada had been insane near salt lake city. Try as i might, you cant compete with being so cold that your hands wont work the throttle and clutch. So in flagstaff arizona, afterseeing the giant redwoods, the oregon coast, most of california, the boneville saltflats, the northern side of the grand canyon, and most of the deserts in utah, arizona, and californina, i decided to turn around. It was a hard decision, but i think the right one.
I spent a day or so contemplating the turn around, but after driving 5 days through the desert from the top of cali, to utah, and down through arizona, i decided that i could not handle driving across texas. It was becomming more of a marithon than a sight seeing tour, and i was paying for the visual experience, not the preteige of a sore rear and an empty bank account. So, the decision was made to return via the highway south of vegas and through cali.
THe trip back was jsut as much fun, as i made sure to pick a route that i had not traveled before. Sticking mostly to the highway, i can say that the sacramento valley reminds me alot of home or of kelowna valley as there are lots of orchards and vinyards.
Eventually after a number of days of hard riding i worked my way up to chehalis washington, right below seattle. THe past few days of weather had been pounding rain and scary mountain passes that reminded me alot of the coquahala, and almost cold enough to snow.
At that point, I could not go any further. The weather had been the worst i had seen, and in a car i would have been fine to take it slow, but on a motorcycle, it was time to pull over. I checked the weather when i dried off in a hotel room, and decided that since there were storm warnings for the next few days, i would call the brother and cash in my return ticket home via the truck.
After chatting with the bro, i fell asleep, and the next morning, after his arrival, we loaded the bike up onto the truck, and headed home.
I thought the adventure would be over there, but we decided to take the ferry from Port Angeles in washington (near olympic national park) over to victoria, then the ferry from sidney to white rock, and then we drove home. Inbetween we visited both washington, and BC's capital cities, and were impressed by the architecture.
We drove all night through the rain over the coquahala, and only the next day did i hear that there was a weather warning for BCs coast.
All in all, it was a good trip. A little shorter than i had originally planned, but I think it was just right. I have some $$$ left over in the bank account, and i think that maybe saving it for a trip across canada this summer like i had originally planned is in order.
Well, thanks for checking up on me. Sorry i couldnt post more pix. But i will get to those later, after I am all rested up.
I spent a day or so contemplating the turn around, but after driving 5 days through the desert from the top of cali, to utah, and down through arizona, i decided that i could not handle driving across texas. It was becomming more of a marithon than a sight seeing tour, and i was paying for the visual experience, not the preteige of a sore rear and an empty bank account. So, the decision was made to return via the highway south of vegas and through cali.
THe trip back was jsut as much fun, as i made sure to pick a route that i had not traveled before. Sticking mostly to the highway, i can say that the sacramento valley reminds me alot of home or of kelowna valley as there are lots of orchards and vinyards.
Eventually after a number of days of hard riding i worked my way up to chehalis washington, right below seattle. THe past few days of weather had been pounding rain and scary mountain passes that reminded me alot of the coquahala, and almost cold enough to snow.
At that point, I could not go any further. The weather had been the worst i had seen, and in a car i would have been fine to take it slow, but on a motorcycle, it was time to pull over. I checked the weather when i dried off in a hotel room, and decided that since there were storm warnings for the next few days, i would call the brother and cash in my return ticket home via the truck.
After chatting with the bro, i fell asleep, and the next morning, after his arrival, we loaded the bike up onto the truck, and headed home.
I thought the adventure would be over there, but we decided to take the ferry from Port Angeles in washington (near olympic national park) over to victoria, then the ferry from sidney to white rock, and then we drove home. Inbetween we visited both washington, and BC's capital cities, and were impressed by the architecture.
We drove all night through the rain over the coquahala, and only the next day did i hear that there was a weather warning for BCs coast.
All in all, it was a good trip. A little shorter than i had originally planned, but I think it was just right. I have some $$$ left over in the bank account, and i think that maybe saving it for a trip across canada this summer like i had originally planned is in order.
Well, thanks for checking up on me. Sorry i couldnt post more pix. But i will get to those later, after I am all rested up.
Friday, October 27, 2006
Crazy roads, ice on the bike again and super hot reddings
It has been a long days ride. To make up for the slow few days traveling i have b-lined it from arcata to redding. Redding is pretty big in comparison to every place i have been through. The oregon coast is pretty sparse, and this certainly has a city feel to it.I am staying in a holiday inn tonight and will be calling the parents. No internet access unless you have a laptop, so i using the internet at a cafe down the street at 25c a minute.
The road to redding was the most winding and spiraling and close turning road i have been on... Second only to the road to hana, but it is a close call. I spent all day manhandling the bike through the corners. And the tire was getting eatenup by the sand.
I also have been keeping up on the bike maintenance, as the bike is currently in the shop down here at Lees Honda. Thanks to steve and the crew there i am getting a new back tire, chain and an oil change. Hopefully things will be solid once i leave. I beat the crap out of the chain in the sand in oregon more than once, and it was making a wonderful noise even at highway speeds, dispite my consitant attention to relubing.
Also, i am using the hotel here as a stay over, since by the time the bike will be out of the shop it will be 6pm, and i dont want to try and find a place to camp outside of a city in the dark. Bad idea.... That and i need to wash my clothes. I am starting to notice my own stink. I am sure everyone i meet will be appreciating the hygine check up.
Anyhow, moving on to salt lake city over the next few days. Gonna come back via plane to see sanfran and area. Not worth getting stuck in with the bike. And i want to ride across the continent first before it dies, and if it dies on me when i am in sanfran i would have been pretty unhappy.
Well, thats all for now. I'll post more from somewhere in salt lake. BTW. no pics yet again because my crappy camera is kodak. Dont buy one, they need proprietary software.
Best Regards
Richard W.
Professional Adventurer in the USA
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Oregon coast, and Californian Redwoods
Well, it has been a while since i have posted. I have finally found a library and will be making efforts to keep this posting process a bit more up to date. The First day down through washing ton got me to Nehalem Oregon where i camped the night at a state park near the ocean. It was nice falling asleep to the sound of the surf. But winters in oregon are nothing to be trifled with. The surf is not like it was when i was in maui, but harder faster and very brutal on the coast. I was told that in the winter the ocean drags most of the sand out to sea and in the summer gently returns it. I can see this myself as i watch the waves crash into the shore.
I spent my second night south of dunes city. A few friends had told me that it was a great place to see. And surely there was alot of sand. It was impressive, but I did not have much of an opportunity to stay and play in the sands. I am spending money on gas food and maintenance of the bike. I have made this a rule as I beleive that the round trip may take me 60 days at the outside.
I kept going until i got to brookings oregon, which is right near the border to california. A great little town that afforded me the opportunity to get some food fuel and water and camp for the night at another state park. These are great from 13$ to 20$ us, i can be garunteed a safe nights sleep. I am hoping that once I am out a bit more into the desert that i can skimp a little and use the vast amount of land avalible for some non park camping.
Other than that, it has been a great trip with some really cool sights. I have seen Stormy coast lines, whales jumping out of the ocean (which i couldn't get a picture of since the camera i have has a delay, and the wales dont pose), and giant redwood trees larger than my motorcycle or my SUV for that matter.
Well, I am off to Arcata, then to Redding and then eastwards to reno then salt lake city. More later. If the bike dies on me now, it was well worth it. I am so glad i have taken the opportunity.
Best Regards
Richard
I spent my second night south of dunes city. A few friends had told me that it was a great place to see. And surely there was alot of sand. It was impressive, but I did not have much of an opportunity to stay and play in the sands. I am spending money on gas food and maintenance of the bike. I have made this a rule as I beleive that the round trip may take me 60 days at the outside.
I kept going until i got to brookings oregon, which is right near the border to california. A great little town that afforded me the opportunity to get some food fuel and water and camp for the night at another state park. These are great from 13$ to 20$ us, i can be garunteed a safe nights sleep. I am hoping that once I am out a bit more into the desert that i can skimp a little and use the vast amount of land avalible for some non park camping.
Other than that, it has been a great trip with some really cool sights. I have seen Stormy coast lines, whales jumping out of the ocean (which i couldn't get a picture of since the camera i have has a delay, and the wales dont pose), and giant redwood trees larger than my motorcycle or my SUV for that matter.
Well, I am off to Arcata, then to Redding and then eastwards to reno then salt lake city. More later. If the bike dies on me now, it was well worth it. I am so glad i have taken the opportunity.
Best Regards
Richard
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Chased by Bikers, Captured By Friends
Well, the ride down to langley was a cold one, but the jacket was fantastic. My brother gave me a send off as we rode the last few Km out of town. Thanks Man, that was cool, just what i needed to get started. I fueled up in merrit and hope, as per usual, making my stops to coincide with a bit of a need to walk around.
And then on I went toward chilliwack. Well i have to say it was not uneventfull. As per my usual fare, I wave to the guys (or gals) riding similar bikes, but this time when i waved, I noticed there was a chap with exactly the same bike (older model). I thought it was cool that he waved back and was content in the fact that bike guys are pretty social creatures. No sooner had i forgotten about my passing, but I noticed a square single headlight in my rear view mirror. Moments later, the same bike i passed, zoomed pass me, waved and then signaled to stop by the side of the road. So in the adventurous spirit of the trip, i pried myself away from the 'time table' and stopped to chat.
Well, the excited, (and super informative) gentleman that dismounted, was quick to introduce himself as Norm. And moments later, I had every modification known to man about the KLR passed on to me as he inspected my bike for anything that I had done that he had not done to his. Upon my inspection of his bike, I noted that the only thing that was not customized was the gas tank. There were remounted fuses, modified seats, electrical accessory attachments, headlight toggles, and various things that I am not even qualified to understand, attached, bolted, and refit on his mount.
Truly this was a man with some knowledge. I hope that over the life time of using my bike I can get a few modifications in, but never as close to as much as this man has. He appears to live on his bike, and knows it well.
Moments later, myself and the man who is the repository for all things KLR, went our seperate ways, and I felt better knowing that there were guys out there willing to pull over on the coqu, for a chat about a bike.
A few hours later, through abbotsford and into langley, i stopped at my friends, and spent the evening catching up. My weekend promises to be one filled with activitied and good food. I a truly blessed with this good company.
Monday I will be leaving for oregon, making a quick pass through washington. Onward Ho...
And then on I went toward chilliwack. Well i have to say it was not uneventfull. As per my usual fare, I wave to the guys (or gals) riding similar bikes, but this time when i waved, I noticed there was a chap with exactly the same bike (older model). I thought it was cool that he waved back and was content in the fact that bike guys are pretty social creatures. No sooner had i forgotten about my passing, but I noticed a square single headlight in my rear view mirror. Moments later, the same bike i passed, zoomed pass me, waved and then signaled to stop by the side of the road. So in the adventurous spirit of the trip, i pried myself away from the 'time table' and stopped to chat.
Well, the excited, (and super informative) gentleman that dismounted, was quick to introduce himself as Norm. And moments later, I had every modification known to man about the KLR passed on to me as he inspected my bike for anything that I had done that he had not done to his. Upon my inspection of his bike, I noted that the only thing that was not customized was the gas tank. There were remounted fuses, modified seats, electrical accessory attachments, headlight toggles, and various things that I am not even qualified to understand, attached, bolted, and refit on his mount.
Truly this was a man with some knowledge. I hope that over the life time of using my bike I can get a few modifications in, but never as close to as much as this man has. He appears to live on his bike, and knows it well.
Moments later, myself and the man who is the repository for all things KLR, went our seperate ways, and I felt better knowing that there were guys out there willing to pull over on the coqu, for a chat about a bike.
A few hours later, through abbotsford and into langley, i stopped at my friends, and spent the evening catching up. My weekend promises to be one filled with activitied and good food. I a truly blessed with this good company.
Monday I will be leaving for oregon, making a quick pass through washington. Onward Ho...
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Richards Travel Rules # 001
Stay flexible... it will keep your mom happy.
Well, it turns out that my leaving tomorrow @ 12 noon was not the best time to happen. My mother called today and was very dissapointed that I was not able to make it for dinner tomorrow night. So, being the good lad that I am, I am staying one extra day to ensure that I have a full belly of my mothers home cooking, and a nice family gathering.
Actually... I cant turn down a free meal *shrug* who woulda thought. =)
Packing the Mule
Well, I have had to be realistic about what I bring, and what stays home. I have layed out everthing on the basement floor, and taken a good hard analysis of what is needed and what isnt.
All of the stuff you see here, is not even considering my clothes a few days of food and tools that i might need.
I figure I should be able to fit all of this into the cargo container, two saddle bags, tank bag, and dry sack. However, dismounting looks like it may be a bigger issue than planned. I tried it out the other day with a simulated full load, and my only concern is swinging the leg over during a dismount, other than that, everything should stow away fine. I am sure that there will be a stationary drop in the bikes future.
BTW, thanks to Dad @ Richard's Small Engines Fabrication Shop for custom mounting plate for the improvised action carrier rubbermaid cargo container. I was going to mount hard side cases, but I think the saddle bags should be fine. Maybe later when I have money I will install panniers from happy trails. These guys make some really light indestructable stuff. But for now, the nylon saddle bags are enough for me.
Also, I have waterproofed the tent with some tent waterproofing spray. Seems to work good. Water beads right off of it. Fairly happy that it will keep water from sticking to the surface.
Anyhow, off to pack the gear into as tiny a space as possible.
All of the stuff you see here, is not even considering my clothes a few days of food and tools that i might need.
I figure I should be able to fit all of this into the cargo container, two saddle bags, tank bag, and dry sack. However, dismounting looks like it may be a bigger issue than planned. I tried it out the other day with a simulated full load, and my only concern is swinging the leg over during a dismount, other than that, everything should stow away fine. I am sure that there will be a stationary drop in the bikes future.
BTW, thanks to Dad @ Richard's Small Engines Fabrication Shop for custom mounting plate for the improvised action carrier rubbermaid cargo container. I was going to mount hard side cases, but I think the saddle bags should be fine. Maybe later when I have money I will install panniers from happy trails. These guys make some really light indestructable stuff. But for now, the nylon saddle bags are enough for me.
Also, I have waterproofed the tent with some tent waterproofing spray. Seems to work good. Water beads right off of it. Fairly happy that it will keep water from sticking to the surface.
Anyhow, off to pack the gear into as tiny a space as possible.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Last Day, First Day
It was the last day at work today. Very moving. I appreciated everyones support and in many cases generosity. Its amazing to realize that I have met so many people at lotteries. Many of which whom I deal with on a regular basis. I am truly blessed to have met you all. I spent at least a half of an hour shaking hands before leaving. The workplace has become a steady environment in which have grown comfortable, leaving was by no means easy. Thanks for making it fun.
And on a lighter note: The trip. I have almost finished testing out the gear, and the luggage container is mounted on the back, ready to be filled. Tomorrow I will help a good friend move, then head home to pack my own gear. Thursday after a good breakfast, head to langley to meet some friends who have gratiously offered up a super comfortable bed for me to sleep in for the night, then on to oregon.
And on a lighter note: The trip. I have almost finished testing out the gear, and the luggage container is mounted on the back, ready to be filled. Tomorrow I will help a good friend move, then head home to pack my own gear. Thursday after a good breakfast, head to langley to meet some friends who have gratiously offered up a super comfortable bed for me to sleep in for the night, then on to oregon.
Monday, October 16, 2006
Langley, then Oregon!
This morning was warm enough that I drove to work Sans gloves. Not super warm, but warmer than it has been. No frost, or ice on the road at all. Gloomy clouds and rain yesterday that almost felt like snow, but i think that if I book it over the coquahala to langley thursday, I should be fine.
Also, I have been checking out www.couchsurfing.com in an effort to meet locals where I am going (and travel the most inexpensive way I can so the trip can be a long one). And I have had a number of postive responses from at least 3 to 4 people, but I have gone with the first response and will be heading to Bend Oregon the day after i am in langley (visting friends).
Its very exciting to be finally moving forward with the plan. I had thought at times it would never get to the point where I would be out on the road this year, but things are working out.
Stay tuned for more exciting tales
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Planning, Packing, Riding
Well, this week is the wrap up at work, and my final days as a Senior Programmer/Analyst . It has been a bit of a change of mindset looking for something new, but I think its part of the great adventure. Its not quitting a job, but rather finishing up a career, and exploring a new avenue that may have been neglected in the past. Whatever the years ahead hold for me, there is still a future, there is another bend, another road to be traveled, and other careers to be had.
And on that note, I have decided to embark on the trip with the bike. Back to plan 'A', but in reverse, states first, then canada, even if i have to do it in two stages. I think most of this decision was made because the travel time between destinations was 3 to 6 times what it would take if one was to drive it. And i figured that since I was to be waiting in places, and not having a place to sleep in others, I would take the risk and ride the bike. Weather for thursday looks warmer, so it may be thursday or friday that I get out of here rather than the weekend like previously thought.
I will be posting my USA itinerary on monday, so check back soon!
And on that note, I have decided to embark on the trip with the bike. Back to plan 'A', but in reverse, states first, then canada, even if i have to do it in two stages. I think most of this decision was made because the travel time between destinations was 3 to 6 times what it would take if one was to drive it. And i figured that since I was to be waiting in places, and not having a place to sleep in others, I would take the risk and ride the bike. Weather for thursday looks warmer, so it may be thursday or friday that I get out of here rather than the weekend like previously thought.
I will be posting my USA itinerary on monday, so check back soon!
Friday, October 13, 2006
From the smallest acorn grows...
I just thought i would take a moment out of my day to post this. These folks are lending their backs and sweat to a good cause to people who have been devistated by Katrina. I am always amazed at stories about how people put such amazing effort into helping others.
http://acorn.org/index.php?id=10223
http://acorn.org/index.php?id=10223
Canadian Itinerary
Well, with the ample amount of time I have had to plan I have put togeather a map of where I will be heading in canada. The USA Map will be up as soon as I can put my list together. The more I look at the whole traveling thing, the more I realize, that I can travel for the rest of my life and still not see everything. Well, here is canada. red is a location where I will be heading, blue is a location where I might head if I have time or I can get to it. Just click on it to open it in a new window
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
October Mornings
Typically october mornings here in BC tend to range from near freezing to mildly cool. Today in kamloops it was cold enough that the dew on the car outside had frozen, and the golf course across the street was covered in a white layer I almost mistook for snow. Enjoying the sight for a moment, I almost forgot that I was going to riding the bike to work today.
It wasn't so bad, though I am glad I bought the gloves last night. Springing 40$ for a warm ride to work was the best decision I have made this fall, as this was the coldest morning thus far.
I really want to get moving before the snow falls. The more time I spend sitting here waiting for the job to wrap up, the less money I have for the adventure, and the less time I have to accomplish it.
Currently I am on plan B) and possibly C). Of which (B) is getting a discover pass from greyhound for 620$ and touring north america. (C) is hitch hiking across canada, but its getting late in the season for that to be comfortable. Mind you, if this guy can walk across canada and start in january on vancouver island, I think managing to thumb rides might be easy in comparison.
More to come as decision time gets closer. I am not even going to mention plan (D)... heheh
It wasn't so bad, though I am glad I bought the gloves last night. Springing 40$ for a warm ride to work was the best decision I have made this fall, as this was the coldest morning thus far.
I really want to get moving before the snow falls. The more time I spend sitting here waiting for the job to wrap up, the less money I have for the adventure, and the less time I have to accomplish it.
Currently I am on plan B) and possibly C). Of which (B) is getting a discover pass from greyhound for 620$ and touring north america. (C) is hitch hiking across canada, but its getting late in the season for that to be comfortable. Mind you, if this guy can walk across canada and start in january on vancouver island, I think managing to thumb rides might be easy in comparison.
More to come as decision time gets closer. I am not even going to mention plan (D)... heheh
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Cold Mornings Warm afternoons and Cartoons
The sting of the cold BC air is evident as you get up at 7:30 and drive to work. Both my brother and myself are faced with the same issue most mornings as we drive our bikes to or from work. At this time there is a light frost on the car windows in the mornings, and I am reminded that the only reason I am spared the scraping of the windows, is because I am riding the motorcycle. The comfort in that fact is short lived with the realization that I have yet to buy gloves.
On a more positive note, I am reviewing my trip plans, and still intend to take a trip regardless if I have to hitch or not. So stay tuned.
Oh, and since do not have a related image to upload, I will upload a funny comic from my favorite strip 'get Fuzzy'. To those who know about my crazy custom voodoo doll idea, i think you will get a kick out of this.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
On a day like today
Oh I am telling you, on a day like today it would be great to get on the bike and make a run for the border. Its nice out, a bit crisp, very few clouds and sunny. It would be easy to do....hmm... Second thought, i dont think work would be too happy about me booking it. And also, I need to get settled and figure some things out. All this change is not comming easy, but in the end I am very sure it will pay off.
On a happy note, I am sleeping in my old bed courtesy of my parents *thanks* , and my bro has been kind enough to change me rent so that I can have a place to eat and sleep while I get my bags packed for the coolest trip ever.
It is looking like the dirty dog plan is going to be it. I have to figure out how to get all of my gear, enough appropriate food, and clothes into my backpack so that I can travel lightly and carefully on what I hope is less than 7$ a day.
More to come soon...
On a happy note, I am sleeping in my old bed courtesy of my parents *thanks* , and my bro has been kind enough to change me rent so that I can have a place to eat and sleep while I get my bags packed for the coolest trip ever.
It is looking like the dirty dog plan is going to be it. I have to figure out how to get all of my gear, enough appropriate food, and clothes into my backpack so that I can travel lightly and carefully on what I hope is less than 7$ a day.
More to come soon...
Friday, October 06, 2006
Things Change....
As usual my life is always a mix of good and bad. Things have changed for me in recent days, and in some good ways and in some bad. I am still making plans for the trip though. My brother is encouraging me to go to australia in january if i can afford the trip by then, but I have no idea how I am going to get 1500$ together for a round trip ticket. the idea of camping and backpacking sounds like a great idea. But I suspect that It would be a bit on the expensive side. Mind you, there are very few people I know who have flown to australia.
Well, there is one person I know, but he lied on a job application, couldnt do his job, spent two weeks on the beach before they revoked his work visa before they booted him in the rear and jettisoned him back home. Mind you he has become a bit of an urban myth as of late.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
A cold turn south?
Well, the weather has turned cold and doesnt look like its going to let up much. I have two options now after plan (A) which was to ride the inexpensive KLR650 across canada, now it appears (B) get a bus ticket and head east, or (C) hitchhike east and see where I can get or (D) drive south, and see if I can outrun the snow.
The odds are against me though. It appears that at this point, I am facing having almost 0$ for the trip. I am hoping that my last pay cheque will be able to finance this endeavour. I really do not want to put this off until next year, as I have a number of things to do between now and then, and as we all know 'tomorrow' never seems to come when you negotiate with yourself enough.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Labrador and Edmonton have Snow
Alright.... I admit it. The idea for the cross canada trip is a bit crazy. Edmonton has snow...period...fullstop. Has forcasts for below 0 degrees. I think that the trip might now not go as originally planned. I have a bit of time to do some research and decide what i want to do.
But for some really good news: I found a very cool game I thought I would share with everyone.
Friday, September 29, 2006
KLR650 Upgrades
Well, I have been looking into some parts for the bike, and have ordered them, only to finally have the money today and the guys at leading edge motorsports are installing as we speak. I thought i would share the joy of new gear. I already have the pump guard installed and did that within the first few days of owning the bike. I may n
eed a new back tire within the next few days. Especially if i am to take the bike across canada and into the states. As for that dream, I may have to move to plan B as i have heard that there has been some snow already in labrador. One thing that i really dont want to do is tangle with mother nature. She does not tend to be kind to those who cross her, and I am fully wary of this.Well, i am off to pick up the bike and check it out.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Seasons Change
The leaves have started falling. I took a walk today down the street and noticed that there were more leaves on the ground than were left on the branches. It has been colder in the mornings, and yesterday i was reminded of how close winter is, with a thick blanket of dew on the motorcycle seat. I wonder if maybe my plans need some revision.
Lately there have been many roadblocks and hurdles to overcome. I wonder if many of them will be show stoppers for this trip.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Testing the bike out on dirt...and hills...and rocks
So, last night, me and my brother were trying to decide where to go for a ride. The drive to the mclure ferry was an option, but i suggested something more apt for the offroad motorcycles that we both were driving. It was decided that we would ride up in bachelor, and try to get to deep lake. The offroad ride that we rode (in red) was within 1 km of the main road(Westsyde Rd.) so if anything happened, we didnt have to worry too much about getting help or coasting the bikes down.As it happens the bro was trying to work some bugs out of the bike, so this was a good trip, and with a few idle adjustments his bike was ticking along great.
This being my first attempt at anything other than easy grade logging roads i was a bit nervous. There are at least 4 to 5 very steep 100-150 foot slopes that required alot of leaning to climb. By the end i had cut my teeth at the fine are of hill climbing.
We stopped ont he way back at turtle hump, and regretted not bringing the camera. But it will come with us for sure.
So at the end of the day, there were no drops, no damage. The KLR650 performed amazing. A smaller bike would have handled better because it would have been shorter, but the KLR has alot of torque, so even when i was learning how to line up the hill in the wrong gear, it tractored through.
We are going to have to do that again!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
So i thought i would update with a pic of my current location. Soon to change. This is more of a test of the blogger tools than an actual post. As for the KLR650, it is in great running condition. Just need to do and oil change and give it a tune up before I go. Still nervous about doing this so late in the season, but i want to do this now. Because if I dont, I wont.
So here it is... Kamloops, BC:
Monday, September 25, 2006
Research Research Research
Well, I have been researching again the trip. It looks like the craziest part of it is going to be at the beginning, within the first 9 days. Labrador is getting colder by the day, and my plans to drive from quebec city to goose bay may be pre-empted by snow. I really hope that this is not the case, but i think i can make the drive in a day or two from labrador city. If it shows at least the road is dirt, so there shoul be some sort of traction. From goose bay there is a ferry across to the labrador highway. Its odd that no one has built a road as the crow flies, but i suspect the muskeg and mountains probbably are the issue. So cross your fingers. Lets hope its a warm winter, and it comes late.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Traveling is Dangerous, It gives you ideas on how small the world is...
Well, This being the first blog entry I have ever posted, I suspect that it is customary to ensure that the reader has some background. At this point my entire life is in turmoil. Nothing is certain. As anyone who knows me understands, I have made some significant changes lately. I have lost 40+ lbs, and am hitting the gym 2-5 times a week, have lowered my cholesterol, and am quitting my affluent job with a gaming corporation.
But one thing that I have re-discovered, is a love for adventure. I had forgotten about how to enjoy life for its more simple pleasures. I was pretty caught up in the whole, buy a house with a white picket fence, buy a dog, drive the SUV, sell the motorcycle, and look forward to being locked in with kids. But always in the back of my mind, there was something else. Something that never sits right, and i never experienced the uneasy almost anxious feeling until now. I know now that it is because right up until i graduated university I spent alot of time adventuring. I rock climbed, adventure raced, loved day trips to places i have not been, hiked, mountain biked, snowshoed and explored. After I graduated, that stopped. I stopped dead in my tracks because of university debt, and the expectation that I needed to become successful by getting a great job and a bigger paycheque. I was 300lbs and was on the fence between giving up and continuing the adventures i have experienced years before.
Well, fast forward 6 years to today. I have lost the weight, sold the house, quitting the job (because i am tired of being in the basement and not talking to people), and am planning a whole new set of adventures that will take me further than i have ever been before.
So this blog is for you guys. To keep in touch and know whats going on. Its going to be a few weeks before there are any new developments, but trust me, I will be living the life less traveled.
Best Regards
Richard
"It's a dangerous business, going out of your door. You step into the Road, and if you don't keep your feet, there is no knowing where you might be swept off to.'"Frodo, Book I, Chapter 3
But one thing that I have re-discovered, is a love for adventure. I had forgotten about how to enjoy life for its more simple pleasures. I was pretty caught up in the whole, buy a house with a white picket fence, buy a dog, drive the SUV, sell the motorcycle, and look forward to being locked in with kids. But always in the back of my mind, there was something else. Something that never sits right, and i never experienced the uneasy almost anxious feeling until now. I know now that it is because right up until i graduated university I spent alot of time adventuring. I rock climbed, adventure raced, loved day trips to places i have not been, hiked, mountain biked, snowshoed and explored. After I graduated, that stopped. I stopped dead in my tracks because of university debt, and the expectation that I needed to become successful by getting a great job and a bigger paycheque. I was 300lbs and was on the fence between giving up and continuing the adventures i have experienced years before.
Well, fast forward 6 years to today. I have lost the weight, sold the house, quitting the job (because i am tired of being in the basement and not talking to people), and am planning a whole new set of adventures that will take me further than i have ever been before.
So this blog is for you guys. To keep in touch and know whats going on. Its going to be a few weeks before there are any new developments, but trust me, I will be living the life less traveled.
Best Regards
Richard
"It's a dangerous business, going out of your door. You step into the Road, and if you don't keep your feet, there is no knowing where you might be swept off to.'"Frodo, Book I, Chapter 3
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
