What Preparation Is Needed for a 4,500 Mile Trip

I am planning on a 4500 mile round trip next summer, so thanks for asking for me!

Yup... you're all set now... bon voyage! Enjoy your trip! :laugh: :laugh: :ohmy:

You seem to be pretty well sorted as far as the bike goes, but how about the rider? Obviously I don't know anything about your physical condition, but being fit never hurt anyone - might be a good idea to prepare yourself for the trip by getting some exercise through the winter, maybe some running or swimming, lifting some weights etc., could make the difference between a great trip and a painful one.

And +1 on the earplugs.

I don't know if you have a windshield or not but it would cut down the fatigue factor considerably. In case of precipitation some sort of weatherproof storage for wallet, cell phone, cigs etc.

and never pick up hitch hikers! :woohoo:

Collander for draining vegetables. Boy scout mess kit. 45 auto for hunting and committing seppuku. Eternal flame torch for when your bic won't flic. Garlic for vampires. Couple of pocket virgins for sacrifice and bartering. Popcorn...just because you'll need popcorn. Eye black grease for riding into the sunset. 5,280 feet of good hemp rope to haul your ride out of that gorge when you missed that turn. Parachute for same reason. Bail money. Bribe money. Get out of jail free card. Identifying tattoo or serial number. And finally a mask for pulling hold ups.... :ohmy: :blink:

GPS rain cover is also important.

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Well guys, we are leaving for California this Saturday morning. Will be riding the Pacific Coast Highway (1), from LA to Napa Valley.

I want to thank each one of you who suggested things that should improve the trip. I had a thorough check-list, and then added the suggestions that you made to the list. All preventive maintenance has been done, and items are loaded.

There are 7 of us who will ride. The days are scheduled as follows: Day 1: Houston, Texas to Fort Stockton, TX; Day 2. On to Tucson, Arizona; 3. To Malibu, CA; 4. To Redwood City, CA; 5. Through San Francisco To Napa, CA; 6. Napa to Barstow, CA; 7. to Gallup, NM; 8. Wichita Falls, TX; 9. Home to Houston.

Yes, it is very ambitious, but I like challenges.

One of the group has a video camera. I hope to ride ahead of him some on the PCH. Will take lots of photos and post them. Thanks again.

I'll be thinking of you Bill. Have a blast :laugh: Looking forward to the photos.

Take some extra fuses with you 30 amp and 10 amp.
Check your wiring harnesses before you go... I recently rode 650 + miles and found several wires that had chafed through to the point that I blew a fuse. Had some electrical wire to re wrap, but also moved the harness to a position that it no longer rubbed against the bolt head it was wedged against.
I rode Hwy 1 from San Luis Obispo to Monterrey last weekend, the colors of the ocean and the flowers are outstanding this time of year.
Best of luck on your trip.
Grant.

Grant:
I have heard that there is a lot of slow moving traffic on Hwy. 1. We will be on the PCH on next Tuesday and Wednesday. What have you found it like?

bring your visa card.....everything...well almost everything can be fixed with cashB)