Las Vegas 2007

[Juice]

Ted and I have been entertaining the thought of riding out to our annual Vegas Rally this year. Our itinerary will consist as follows. We will spend four days on the road getting there by way of Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. That will give us three full days to enjoy Sin City and leave us 2-days for a 1,700 mile iron butt ride back home. The time frame will be the same as last year, late September or early October. If you can not make the ride don't worry. You can catch a flight with the girls. Last year we rented bikes from BMW of Las Vegas. I would however suggest that if you plan to rent a bike you need to get confirmation as soon as possible.

The purpose of this thread is to get some input and try and lock down a definite date. I know a lot of you guys work offshore so your date suggestions and comments are welcome. Nothing will be set in stone till about May. That gives everyone five long months to get there crap together before we book….I hope to see everyone in Nevada come next fall.

[Ritten]

September 21st-23rd looks like the only weekend that Nick and I will be home for. I come in from offshore on the 19th, so if we do a ride I'd be able to leave on Thursday, or that weekend.

[iridefar]

Ted and I have been entertaining the thought of riding out to our annual Vegas Rally this year. Our itinerary will consist as follows. We will spend four days on the road getting there by way of Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. That will give us three full days in Sin City and leave us 2-days for a iron butt ride back home. The time frame will be the same as last year, late September or early October. If you cannot make the ride don't worry. You can catch a flight with the girls. Last year we rented bikes from BMW of Las Vegas. I would however suggest that if you plan to rent a bike you need to get confirmation as soon as possible.

The purpose of this tread is to get some ideas and lock down a definite date. I know alot of you guys work offshore so your date suggestions and comments are welcome. Nothing will be set in stone till about May. That gives everyone five long months to get there crap together before we book….I hope to see everyone in Nevada come this fall.

So the ladies are actually going to ride next year, huh? Cool12

I would like to make this trip next year. I definately am interested in doing the IBA ride. Which one are you planning? If I am unable to go, I can serve as a witness for you when you make it back. I think I am still on the official IBA witness list (only needed if you are doing an extreme ride).

I bought a book last week while I was in AZ that has some sweet looking rides in it. I would be more than willing to loan it to you to help plan the ride. I definately recommend the Apache Trail. It is short (less than 50 miles) but has some great scenery. I have some pics that I will post in a ride report.

[Juice]

Below is the link to the Video edit from Vegas 06, Just in case you haven't seen it. The file is rather large file so please give it adequate time to load.....

"Clicky for Las Vegas 06" (http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/vegas.html)

[Save-the-Manatee]

I really do not care much for the saddle sore but I would be up for the 4 day ride there........Let me know some details.

[jamboa]

I have never been there. Not much on gambling. You know it is set up for you to lose. The ride part sounds like fun.
Jamboa

[Juice]

Just like being married.................qwer
You know it is set up for you to lose.

[kajunKLR]

Mid sept is cool with me, my B-Day is Sept 21 and i have a sister-in-law that is a dealer in Vegas. the wife can fly there on my FF miles and visit her sister prior to our arrival. have driven from LA to La in 31 hrs in a jeep, gotta break in the boar (07 KLR) sometime, vegas don't sound bad, keep us posted as to what is the pending details.

Cheers
Chris

[Gravity]

I left for Vegas on October 4th early in the a.m. I got a speeding ticket on the atchafalya (sp?) causeway that couldn't be fixed so the tone for the trip was set early. I drove through texas heat and ended up in Tecumcari NM after 1003 miles. I arrived in Vegas the next day, totally 1849 miles for the entire trip. I loved every moment of the trip, especially on the way home with the gerbings jacket liner. It was 36 degrees when I went through the mountains in AZ but the jacket liner made me warmer than toast.

I'm interested in this trip since I have kin there.

It should be fun,

Gravity

[Dirt Track]

I am interested in this trip. All will depend on my work schedule at the time. Leaving late Sept to Oct is great for traffic, but don't forget the heated gear for a run through Colorado and Utah. I went out to Utah this past Sept and rode in snow and slush covered roads up the Million Dollar Highway with 33 degree weather. The two passes were pretty slick and the RT does not behave well on slick roads. It was in the twenties in Torrrey, Utah (about 7,700 feet). Love to ride the Rockies and I have been wanting to get to Vegas since I have never been.

The photo was taken in Utah at an overlook off Hwy 95 with Hite Marina below.

[Gravity]

I didn't go through many passes, but on the way home, October 20th, It was very chilly!!! Without the Gerbing I would have certainly suffered from Hypothermia!!!

Best,

Gravity

[Dusty]

Exactly how cold will Colorado be in October?

[scootertrash]

Need Dates, I can't pull this and the coast to coast though. Might have to do this and a couple other small trips.

[Dirt Track]

Exactly how cold will Colorado be in October?

qwer Have you ever hopped into your fridge and spent a little time in there? Well, probably colder than that!

It was below 20* two mornings when I headed out from Utah. The passes will definitely be cold, but the lower elevations could actually be fairly nice, say 50* to 70* or so. This past year the Arctic air made an early appearance and it was pretty chilly. I would definitely not leave home without heated gear and good cold weather gear.

[Dusty]

Where are you guys going to stay?

[Juice]

Most likely somewhere centrally located on the strip. Last year we stayed at the Stratosphere at the north end of the strip and we walked our tails off. For this year I was thinking Caesars, The Aladdin, or The Paris. The problem with being centrally located on the strip is the price per room. Weekday rates at the Strat are about $90.00 a night while rooms at the Paris are about $225.00. If anyone has, any ideas or suggestions please feel free to throw them out there.



Where are you guys going to stay?

[jason70360]

When Brad and I went to the Suzuki dealer show a few years ago we stayed at the Paris and it was very nice. But of course Suzuki paid the bill.

[Juice]

I have been doing some brainstorming and just a little research. I can rent a five to eight bedroom vacation home for about $125.00 per room per night. We would have our own pool, a kitchen, BBQ pit, a garage for the bikes, easy access to the Las Vegas Strip. I think this would be a much better alternative then spending $240.00 per room in any of the hotels on the strip. I am also in the process of getting some info for a house on lake Mead. Of course we would have to have enough participants and they would have to prepay. What do you people think?

[kajunKLR]

trying to set my vacation schedule. have we come to a date for the trip. i know the weekend of the 21 sept has been mentioned more then once. if we leave mid week the girls could join us over the weekend. just need to make provision so that my rotation reflects these dates.

as for lodging for me, my sister-in law lives there, (small apartment) so i will probably stay there. my wife will fly in and join me. Owned

[Juice]

The weekend of Sept 21 is looking like a go. There is no way possible for me to leave mid week. There earliest possible that I could get out of the office would be that Friday around noon.





trying to set my vacation schedule. have we come to a date for the trip. i know the weekend of the 21 sept has been mentioned more then once. if we leave mid week the girls could join us over the weekend. just need to make provision so that my rotation reflects these dates.

as for lodging for me, my sister-in law lives there, (small apartment) so i will probably stay there. my wife will fly in and join me. Owned

[scootertrash]

Still plannin on riding?
And decorate that pool and jacuzzi with some scantly clad hot women and I would be on that like a duck on a junebugggg....lol. I like the idea of the house.

[Juice]

Yes, I will be riding


Still plannin on riding?


You are starting to vision the beauty of my plan.



And decorate that pool and jacuzzi with some scantly clad hot women and I would be on that like a duck on a junebugggg....

[scootertrash]

You are starting to vision the beauty of my plan.

I mean was there ever any doubt?

[Rocky]

The wife and I would really like to make it this year. We can't make the ride but we can fly in and meet ya guys for the Vegas Fun. Maybe We can rent a pair of bikes in Vegas. Who did you guys use for Bike Rentals last year?

[Juice]

http://www.bmwoflasvegas.com/



Who did you guys use for Bike Rentals last year?

[scootertrash]

House? Hotel? Tent? Are just stay up 24 hrs a day?

[Dusty]

I'm there dude.



And decorate that pool and jacuzzi with some scantly clad hot women

[Dusty]

Any preparations being made at this time?

[Juice]

Just killing time. We have about 10-12 that have shown interest in the ride to Sin City. Keep in mind that last year we had about the same number of players and only 5 were good to play come game-day.

If you have any plans ideas or suggestions please post up. As of right now September 21 looks like the magic number. I plan to leave BR on Friday morning. Spend 4 days on the road and meet up with my wife in Vegas on or about Tuesday.

Who all is planning on making the trip but will not be riding. IF you plan to rent a bike in Vegas I suggest that you do so as soon as possible.

Where are the ladies? My wife says that she is not going if she will be the only female.



Any preparations being made at this time?

[kajunKLR]

i have been buying a few things (farkle) to accomodate the ride. has anyone considered the exact route that we will take? i see dusty is in texas. 49 north to ark or west on 10 to texas. Ted/Nick you can step in here since you guys are the GPS guru. i have never driven north of shreivport. suggestions on the route, i know juice mentioned colo, utah, nev. this sounds good to me. actually anywhere is cool with me. is anyone else planning on riding their tractor (KLR) besides me? have to move up to a 16t front sproket for the trip so you guys don't vibrate me apart. maybe even put the stock pipe back on for the trip.

Cool12

[Juice]

Probably slab it to Amarillo. From there we can take our time and smell the roses. Ted has a pretty vast knowledge of Colorado. I am currently getting help from some Utah ADV riders. We are doing our best to tie Colorado, Utah and Nevada all together with a very minimum amount of interstate.


i have been buying a few things (farkle) to accomodate the ride. has anyone considered the exact route that we will take? i see dusty is in texas. 49 north to ark or west on 10 to texas. Ted/Nick you can step in here since you guys are the GPS guru. i have never driven north of shreivport. suggestions on the route, i know juice mentioned colo, utah, nev. this sounds good to me. actually anywhere is cool with me. is anyone else planning on riding their tractor (KLR) besides me? have to move up to a 16t front sproket for the trip so you guys don't vibrate me apart. maybe even put the stock pipe back on for the trip.

Cool12

[Ritten]

Slabbing it to Amarillo is probably the best bet to start out a 4 day ride to Vegas. From there the route is going to depend on what you want to see, but with the limited time to get to Vegas, I'd suggest heading north up past Colorado Springs and riding across the Rocky Mountain national park, from there heading west to Grand Junction and then head south down through Ouray, Telluride, and Silverton. Making a pit stop in the 4 corners area is a must and even a night in downtown Durango is awesome. From 4 corners there's always monument valley, the Grand Canyon, and a million sights to see on the Navaho reservation. Taking back roads down to Sedona, AZ might be a good idea before heading back over to Nevada.

That route right there is a FULL four days of hard riding with interstate and major highways!! Realisticly, you'll need at least 10 days to do that ride entirely on back highways. To make it to Vegas you'll be doing all of your sight seeing from the saddle.

[JayD]

.

[Juice]

What if we give ourself an extra day to get there? Meet up in Vegas on late Wednesday? If we could make Amarillo friday night. That would give us 5 days to get to Vegas from Amarillo?





Slabbing it to Amarillo is probably the best bet to start out a 4 day ride to Vegas. From there the route is going to depend on what you want to see, but with the limited time to get to Vegas, I'd suggest heading north up past Colorado Springs and riding across the Rocky Mountain national park, from there heading west to Grand Junction and then head south down through Ouray, Telluride, and Silverton. Making a pit stop in the 4 corners area is a must and even a night in downtown Durango is awesome. From 4 corners there's always monument valley, the Grand Canyon, and a million sights to see on the Navaho reservation. Taking back roads down to Sedona, AZ might be a good idea before heading back over to Nevada.

That route right there is a FULL four days of hard riding with interstate and major highways!! Realisticly, you'll need at least 10 days to do that ride entirely on back highways. To make it to Vegas you'll be doing all of your sight seeing from the saddle.

[Dusty]

That 900 miles from Baton Rouge to Amarillo by morning. Thats very doable. We just better not forgot to pack our monkey butt powder.......I'm so stoked. Lets ride..............


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What if we give ourself an extra day to get there? Meet up in Vegas on late Wednesday? If we could make Amarillo friday night. That would give us 5 days to get to Vegas from Amarillo?

[Ritten]

What if we give ourself an extra day to get there? Meet up in Vegas on late Wednesday? If we could make Amarillo friday night. That would give us 5 days to get to Vegas from Amarillo?


Here's the basic route that I outlined above. 2600 miles all together which means even with the 900 miles the first day, you'll still have 1700 to go. That's 425 a day which isn't a lot on flat highways, but up in the mountains it's a full day. But still doable with discipline to get up in the morning and hit the road.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/untitled-1.jpg

[kajunKLR]

Here's the basic route that I outlined above. 2600 miles all together which means even with the 900 miles the first day, you'll still have 1700 to go. That's 425 a day which isn't a lot on flat highways, but up in the mountains it's a full day. But still doable with discipline to get up in the morning and hit the road.

as for the nite stops, are we carring tents? do we hit the motel 6? tent is fine by me.

[Rocky]

You people are going to get my ass in a crack. I have been jonesn for a road trip. I can meet you guys in Amarillo. The wife does not mind that I ride, but she does not want to fly alone. IF I pay her girlfriend’s way, she will be happy to comply. Where there is a will there is a way.

[Dusty]

Is that girlfriends plural? Meaning that there is more then one girlfriend present? Can we get a visual confirmation? STFU






IF I pay her girlfriend’s way, she will be happy to comply. Where there is a will there is a way.

[Juice]

I was thinking that we could get a room in Amarillo, and camp in Colorado. It will still be a bit warm in the desert so I would think that camping in Utah, Arizona and Nevada is a negative.





as for the nite stops, are we carring tents? do we hit the motel 6? tent is fine by me.

[shortie]

You people are going to get my ass in a crack. I have been jonesn for a road trip. I can meet you guys in Amarillo. The wife does not mind that I ride, but she does not want to fly alone. IF I pay her girlfriend’s way, she will be happy to comply. Where there is a will there is a way.

If you pay my way, i'll accompany her AND be her girlfriend :p

[Ritten]

I was thinking that we could get a room in Amarillo, and camp in Colorado. It will still be a bit warm in the desert so I would think that camping in Utah, Arizona and Nevada is a negative.


September in the Rockies is the off season and you can get cabins/rooms for dirt cheap and they're aplenty. If there are 4 or 5 bikes in the group then splitting a room between two or three guys would be easier/cheaper/faster than camping. You can ride later into the evening without worrying about setting up camp, and the only thing to do in the morning is pack the bike up. You also have A LOT more room on the bike and less gear to store once you get to Vegas.

Just a thought...

[kajunKLR]

September in the Rockies is the off season and you can get cabins/rooms for dirt cheap and they're aplenty. If there are 4 or 5 bikes in the group then splitting a room between two or three guys would be easier/cheaper/faster than camping. You can ride later into the evening without worrying about setting up camp, and the only thing to do in the morning is pack the bike up. You also have A LOT more room on the bike and less gear to store once you get to Vegas.

Just a thought...

thats cool with me, this might allow for a few more stops at certain sights. i know we have to roll but we still have to stop for pic opportunities. also it would be nice to have a shower somewhere in these 5 days, lol.

[Dusty]

I know that you people do a lot of camping/adventure riding, so I will leave the preparations and planning up to you guys. This will be my maiden voyage for the duck. I am open to whatever works for your guys.

On another note: I need to build a tool kit for the bike. What tools do you people take on the road? I saw a list that someone had posted a while back but I cannot seem to locate it today.

[Ritten]

On another note: I need to build a tool kit for the bike. What tools do you people take on the road? I saw a list that someone had posted a while back but I cannot seem to locate it today.



I'd recommend your tool kit to be bike specific. When you do your maintenance to your cycle write down or put those tools aside for your tool kit. It'll vary from bike to bike. For example, BMW uses a shit load of torx head bolts on their bikes where as a lot of the japanese bikes use more allen head bolts. I think Nick has a list of generic tool kits that include the basics. On my bike I carry a tool kit for local riding, and then include more specialized items for my trips.

[Pentabilly]

If you pay my way, i'll accompany her AND be her girlfriend :p


+1!! I like the way you think!

[iridefar]

On another note: I need to build a tool kit for the bike. What tools do you people take on the road? I saw a list that someone had posted a while back but I cannot seem to locate it today.

If you do your own wrenching, mark the tools when you actually use them on the bike. This is a good way to determine which tools you actually need and which ones never get used. On some bikes you can take the whole bike apart with a 10mm & 12mm wrench. On the BMWs you can do most things with a couple of torx. If you have added Touratech goodies, you have to have allen wrenches, etc.

Most people take way too much stuff in their tool kits. I have seen people pack wrenches in their kits when they don't even have that size bolt anywhere on their bikes!

[Rocky]

There are some awesome roads to explore between Hwy 12 and Big Water, UT. I spent a few winters there exploring when I lived in Page, AZ. Check out Cottonwood Canyon Road or the Smoky Mountain Road (from Big Water to Escalante). Don't drive off the road in Glen Canyon NRA. The Park Service will freak out. There is a cool overlook called Alstrom Point off this road which is where all the cool pictures in the Lake Powell Calendars that have the canyon and Padre Bay in front of Navajo Mountain were taken from. At the top of the Smoky Mountain grade, there are some places where the smoke is coming from underground coal fires still.

Another cool road in the area is House Rock Road which goes from highway 89 down south to highway 89a. It is mostly a high speed burn on the gravel road. I have heard it referred to as the Honeymoon Trail. It is a fun route over to the Kaibab Forest or even to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. There is some hiking destinations there called the Coyote Buttes and / or the Wave. You have to make reservations to make that hike.

There is another cool off road side trip just north of where House Rock Road takes off of Highway 89 going North to the former Paria Town Site. Very cool rainbow dirt in that area. There are some former movie set buildings (actually recreations of ones that were there but were becoming to dangerous) to explore as well as an old graveyard, and some remains of old buildings on the other side of the river. There is a campground down there too.

Some of these roads are in the Grand Staircase National Monument and not in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. It is probably getting too warm down there to do much riding but there are some really cool spots to travel.

There are tons of dirt roads out there. The scenery is awesome.


When your in Moab, dont miss Dead Horse Pt. (state park) its worth the 20 miles or so out of the way drive. Boulder moutain is world famous for MC travel, just watch out for deer. Lots of em. So. Utah is the s*#&.

[Juice]

Slap12 Found my ADV thread I see..... Slap12


There are some awesome roads to explore between Hwy 12 and Big Water, UT. I spent a few winters there exploring when I lived in Page, AZ. Check out Cottonwood Canyon Road or the Smoky Mountain Road (from Big Water to Escalante). Don't drive off the road in Glen Canyon NRA. The Park Service will freak out. There is a cool overlook called Alstrom Point off this road which is where all the cool pictures in the Lake Powell Calendars that have the canyon and Padre Bay in front of Navajo Mountain were taken from. At the top of the Smoky Mountain grade, there are some places where the smoke is coming from underground coal fires still.

Another cool road in the area is House Rock Road which goes from highway 89 down south to highway 89a. It is mostly a high speed burn on the gravel road. I have heard it referred to as the Honeymoon Trail. It is a fun route over to the Kaibab Forest or even to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. There is some hiking destinations there called the Coyote Buttes and / or the Wave. You have to make reservations to make that hike.

There is another cool off road side trip just north of where House Rock Road takes off of Highway 89 going North to the former Paria Town Site. Very cool rainbow dirt in that area. There are some former movie set buildings (actually recreations of ones that were there but were becoming to dangerous) to explore as well as an old graveyard, and some remains of old buildings on the other side of the river. There is a campground down there too.

Some of these roads are in the Grand Staircase National Monument and not in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. It is probably getting too warm down there to do much riding but there are some really cool spots to travel.

There are tons of dirt roads out there. The scenery is awesome.


When your in Moab, dont miss Dead Horse Pt. (state park) its worth the 20 miles or so out of the way drive. Boulder moutain is world famous for MC travel, just watch out for deer. Lots of em. So. Utah is the s*#&.

[Juice]

Room accommodation's will be booked on Sunday July 1st. I will play travel agent and take care of the details. I just need commitments from those interested in staying at the same location as us.

[Rocky]

Robbers Roost is an area bounded by the Dirty Devil River, the Colorado Rivier, the Green River and the San Rafeal Desert. Its place in history was set by being the southern sancturary on the old Outlaw Trail that ran from Mexico to Canada.

Best ride into the Roost is found by taking SR 95 across the Colorado River. No more than a half mile after crossing te river, on the northern bank you will see Recreation Road 633 taking off to the east. You come around a rght hander with an uphill slant and on the inside you'll see the back of the stop sign on Rec Rd 633 as it hits the highway. This road will take you in along the very base of the cliffs. A couple hours in and the road snakes its way to the top of te cliffs where you'll run along the top for a good bit before turning into the Roost Flats. With a little imangination you have the likes of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid riding along with you.
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[scootertrash]

Times is ticking... gettin closer... we ever decide on the house or a room Juice Box?

[Juice]

In order for the house rental to be feasible we would need at least 6-8 people. At this time I only have one confirmation other then the wife and myself.

On June 30th I am going to book my room at "The Paris" Nicole will be flying in to join me on the 26th. Kevin if you are planing on making this one you should hook up with Ted and share a room. The average price per room at the Paris is $199.00 per night. That is pretty much the average on the strip. I will be more then happy to book you a room with us if you will be ready to commit at the end of June.




Times is ticking... gettin closer... we ever decide on the house or a room Juice Box?

[scootertrash]

Ted, Want to split a room? I mean I ride a BMW now so it shouldn't crimp your big ballin Adv Riding style...lol. Oh and no spooning! I will take the floor if there is only one bed. Let me know. I am on a budget paying for this new bike.........lol



In order for the house rental to be feasible we would need at least 6-8 people. At this time I only have one confirmation other then the wife and myself.

On June 30th I am going to book my room at "The Paris" Nicole will be flying in to join me on the 26th. Kevin if you are planing on making this one you should hook up with Ted and share a room. The average price per room at the Paris is $199.00 per night. That is pretty much the average on the strip. I will be more then happy to book you a room with us if you will be ready to commit at the end of June.

[Ritten]

Ted, Want to split a room? I mean I ride a BMW now so it shouldn't crimp your big ballin Adv Riding style...lol. Oh and no spooning! I will take the floor if there is only one bed. Let me know. I am on a budget paying for this new bike.........lol

Sure man. I won't be able to commit to the trip until basically the month before but I'll split a room with ya. We'll have to negotiate the spooning though.

[scootertrash]

Oh shit! Gay


I'll split a room with ya. We'll have to negotiate the spooning though.

[Harland]

Juice: Don't know how much time you want to devote to Colorado on your way out to Las Vegas, but I spent the last 6 days riding every good road in CO. Took 2 days to get to Taos, NM. From there the roads that I found to be the most fun (no off road) were 149 from Pagosa Springs to Gunnison, 50 (not too hot) from Gunnison to Poncha Springs then 285 to Leadville, then 91 to I-70 to 45 to Grandy, then 34 through Rocky Mountain NP to 287 (booring, but short) to 14 to Walden to 125 back to Granby to 134 to 131 to I-70 to 82 to 133 to 92 (Black Canyon of the Gunnison), then hard left on 50 to Montrose, then 550 to Durango. Yahoo and woopee. This takes about 4-5 days but the rides and scenery are spectacular. Go over many high mountain passes. In the RMNP I rode beside snow packs that were 15 feet high above the bike. One or two of the stretches are kind of booring but thankfully short but they are necessary to get from one point to another point. Bunch of unique and lovely little western towns on the route. I put about 4500 miles in the 10 days, including going and coming from MS. Harland

[Juice]

Thanks for the info Harland. It is much appreciated.



Juice: Don't know how much time you want to devote to Colorado on your way out to Las Vegas, but I spent the last 6 days riding every good road in CO. Took 2 days to get to Taos, NM. From there the roads that I found to be the most fun (no off road) were 149 from Pagosa Springs to Gunnison, 50 (not too hot) from Gunnison to Poncha Springs then 285 to Leadville, then 91 to I-70 to 45 to Grandy, then 34 through Rocky Mountain NP to 287 (booring, but short) to 14 to Walden to 125 back to Granby to 134 to 131 to I-70 to 82 to 133 to 92 (Black Canyon of the Gunnison), then hard left on 50 to Montrose, then 550 to Durango. Yahoo and woopee. This takes about 4-5 days but the rides and scenery are spectacular. Go over many high mountain passes. In the RMNP I rode beside snow packs that were 15 feet high above the bike. One or two of the stretches are kind of booring but thankfully short but they are necessary to get from one point to another point. Bunch of unique and lovely little western towns on the route. I put about 4500 miles in the 10 days, including going and coming from MS. Harland

[Rocky]

Awesome thanks for the heads up.


Juice: Don't know how much time you want to devote to Colorado on your way out to Las Vegas, but I spent the last 6 days riding every good road in CO. Took 2 days to get to Taos, NM. From there the roads that I found to be the most fun (no off road) were 149 from Pagosa Springs to Gunnison, 50 (not too hot) from Gunnison to Poncha Springs then 285 to Leadville, then 91 to I-70 to 45 to Grandy, then 34 through Rocky Mountain NP to 287 (booring, but short) to 14 to Walden to 125 back to Granby to 134 to 131 to I-70 to 82 to 133 to 92 (Black Canyon of the Gunnison), then hard left on 50 to Montrose, then 550 to Durango. Yahoo and woopee. This takes about 4-5 days but the rides and scenery are spectacular. Go over many high mountain passes. In the RMNP I rode beside snow packs that were 15 feet high above the bike. One or two of the stretches are kind of booring but thankfully short but they are necessary to get from one point to another point. Bunch of unique and lovely little western towns on the route. I put about 4500 miles in the 10 days, including going and coming from MS. Harland

[Juice]

I booked the wifes airfare last week. Baton Rouge to Las Vegas is $420.00. I am hoping to book my room next Friday.

[Save-the-Manatee]

I'm doing my best to clear my schedule to make a flight in to party with you guys. The wife is out. She can't get away from the damn work phone....

[Juice]

Where you at Kajun? Still making plans to join us in Sin City?



thats cool with me, this might allow for a few more stops at certain sights. i know we have to roll but we still have to stop for pic opportunities. also it would be nice to have a shower somewhere in these 5 days, lol.

[jason70360]

I'll think hard about this one but won't be able to commit until last minute b/c of work.

[Shaq Diesel]

Any estimates on total costs for the trip?

[jason70360]

Any estimates on total costs for the trip?

How bad do you want to bet on black?

[Juice]

Do you do any gambling? The rooms on the strip are steep. $200-$300 a nite paid in advance. I'm bringing about 1k for the road and 1.5k for Sin city. But i love my Jack Daniels, betting on football and playing poker. Conservatively you could make it for for about $1,500 total.



Any estimates on total costs for the trip?

[Shaq Diesel]

Not really a big gambler (funny thing is my dad loves betting on horses yet he instilled a "always work for your money" spirit in me so I find no joy is trying to "double up" without either using my brains or hands...).

$1.5K might be doable. Really gonna need to sell the RC before I can really commit though (should be getting her "sale ready" this weekend so I'll let you know within a couple of weeks).

[Juice]

I normally allow myself a very generous $100.00 a day while on the road. Eighth days on the road @ 500+ miles a day = about $30.00 for fuel, say $25.00 for food & $45.00 for shared lodging.

The three days is Vegas is all what you make of it. Vegas is one of my favorite city's to visit I have been going every year for the past 15 years. You can enjoy Sin city for very little money if you stay away from the gambling. Most of the big casino's on the strip offer free shows and comps to lure customers there. For the most part the food is cheap if you chose to go that route. There are $2.99 breakfast bars and $6.99 dinner buffets. Vegas has something for everyone. My wife was never big on gambling and always thought of Vegas as not the kind of place that she would be interested it. I brought her for the first time a few years back and her response was 'This place is awesome I had no idea"



Not really a big gambler (funny thing is my dad loves betting on horses yet he instilled a "always work for your money" spirit in me so I find no joy is trying to "double up" without either using my brains or hands...).

$1.5K might be doable. Really gonna need to sell the RC before I can really commit though (should be getting her "sale ready" this weekend so I'll let you know within a couple of weeks).

[Juice]

One more thing if anyone wants to book tix to Cirque du Soleil O you will need to let me know asap. (It may already be too late they normally sell out 3-4 months in advance) I have seen all of the Cirque du Soleil shows except for this one. I highly recommend them if you have never been in attendance. I have never been interested in the theatrical type stuff but I was completely blown away by these production shows. They are a bit pricey ($150.00 per ticket) but well worth the money for the entertainment value.

Trailer for KA

<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5oRP23dijPk"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5oRP23dijPk" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

[Juice]

Hotel booked.

The wife and I got 3 nights at the Luxor Casino and Hotel. Sept 25-27.

[scootertrash]

Ted, you still up for sharing a room? If I do that I won't have to pack Ramen Noodles for my nutrition throughout this trip.

[Ritten]

Dude, if I can go (which it's looking more and more like I will) then I'll be more than happy to share a room. Just don't bitch if Nikki and I keep you up all night. She's a screamer for sure! :D

[Shaq Diesel]

Why do I have the weird feeling that Kevin is going to back a small camcorder now... :)

[scootertrash]

I'll take sloppy seconds....
disclaimer... that is if she is a female, and is decent looking.....qwer



Dude, if I can go (which it's looking more and more like I will) then I'll be more than happy to share a room. Just don't bitch if Nikki and I keep you up all night. She's a screamer for sure! :D

[Dusty]

Is this the end of the line? Really I don't mind being third.




I'll take sloppy seconds....
disclaimer... that is if she is a female, and is decent looking.....qwer

[Juice]

Do you guys want to get together one Thursday night at a coffee shop? Maybe go over some routes and put a small itinerary together?

[scootertrash]

Sounds good to me.


Do you guys want to get together one Thursday night at a coffee shop? Maybe go over some routes and put a small itinerary together?

[Rocky]

The Valley of Fire its very beautiful much more than Red Rock, Go north on I-15 to the Valley of fire exit. Ride the Valley of Fire. See the whole thing. There are many petroglifs next to the road at Mouses Tank. Then you can ride along the North shore road of Lake Mead back to Vegas.


<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gKntGwM1vgY"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gKntGwM1vgY" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

[kajunKLR]

Where you at Kajun? Still making plans to join us in Sin City?

hey juice,
sorry about being out of touch, i just bought a house on main street new iberia (110 yrs old),picture below, and have been stretched very thin. i have had little time for computer and personal fun.
yes i am still set on going, althought i just took a ride to houston and back on monday and tuesday. i will have to either get a kidney belt are some type of back rest for the trip. sitting here with a stiff lower back. and also the wife is planning to meet me there. as mentioned before we will be staying with here sister while there.

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/2200/house2mh1.png (http://imageshack.us)

[Rocky]

I will not be making it after all fellows. I will be on crutches for the next 5-6 weeks + the KTM is toast. You guys ride safe.

[minig0d]

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,292166,00.html

Thats why yall are trying to go eh?

[jason70360]

I will not be making it after all fellows. I will be on crutches for the next 5-6 weeks + the KTM is toast. You guys ride safe.

Details?

[nickatnite]

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,292166,00.html

Thats why yall are trying to go eh?

Hell no...

Bunny Ranch. Isabella Soprano....

[Juice]

I just got word from Ara that he is going to be in the Utah region around the same period that we will be passing through. I'm looking forward to hooking up with him and Spirit for a gourmet meal under the desert stars.

[scootertrash]

Damn Dude, hope you recover in a fast efficient mannor. Tell the wife to be easy on you and no trick fuckin....


I will not be making it after all fellows. I will be on crutches for the next 5-6 weeks + the KTM is toast. You guys ride safe.

[scootertrash]

I keep thinking of just staying out in the Utah Colorado area and ride while you all or chasing whores and jackpots in Vegas. Somthing about the Mountians. qwer

Sounds good with Ara and Spirit.


I just go word from Ara that he is going to be in the Utah region around the same period that we will be passing through. I'm looking forward to hooking up with him and Spirit for a gourmet meal under the desert stars.

[scooterhose]

Nice house.Cool12



hey juice,
sorry about being out of touch, i just bought a house on main street new iberia (110 yrs old),picture below, and have been stretched very thin. i have had little time for computer and personal fun.
yes i am still set on going, althought i just took a ride to houston and back on monday and tuesday. i will have to either get a kidney belt are some type of back rest for the trip. sitting here with a stiff lower back. and also the wife is planning to meet me there. as mentioned before we will be staying with here sister while there.

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/2200/house2mh1.png (http://imageshack.us)

[Juice]

43 Days and counting Wooo Hooooo

[Rocky]

Head Bang



43 Days and counting Wooo Hooooo

[Save-the-Manatee]

Whats the word?

[Juice]

Come Thursday Sept 20th at 3:00 pm I will be on the road. Alone or with a group makes no difference to me.

[Ritten]

......I will be on the road. Alone or with a group makes no difference to me.


VERY wise words.

[Navaho6]

It would be hard or probably impossible for me to make this trip although I'd love to. I'm going to Mexico the week prior.

[Juice]

29 Days and Counting............

[Dusty]

I am still tying to clear my schedule. I can for sure fly in and meet you guys but taking 10-12 days off work is where the problem is.

[Juice]

Keep in mind that the wife and I will be unavailable on the 26th and 27th while in Vegas. We have special plans to get away and celebrate our anniversary.

[Shaq Diesel]

I'm about 90% in. Need to figure out the cheapest way to deal with my dogs...

[kajunKLR]

Come Thursday Sept 20th at 3:00 pm I will be on the road. Alone or with a group makes no difference to me.

juiceman,
you got clearence from the tower for an ealier departure? this should put us in Vegas for monday hopefully. this works well for me, since i may head back on the wed. the sugarcane festival is the weekend of the 29th. and the parades line up in front my new house, so i think i want to be there. i figure i can make it home in 2 days, maybe 3.

Cool12

[Juice]

Negative, I was originally schedule to depart on Saturday. I had to kiss some major ass to get away on Thursday. No way possible I can get away any earlier then noon that Thursday. I plan to stay with Scooter and Sandy in Dallas Thursday night. I have plans to meet up with Beemerchef on Monday in Moab.........



juiceman,
you got clearence from the tower for an ealier departure? this should put us in Vegas for monday hopefully. this works well for me, since i may head back on the wed. the sugarcane festival is the weekend of the 29th. and the parades line up in front my new house, so i think i want to be there. i figure i can make it home in 2 days, maybe 3.

Cool12

[kajunKLR]

did i miss something here about the scheduled take off date? i thought we were scheduled to depart on friday the 21st. juice is now leaving on thursday 20th, is anyone else leaving earlier? i am up for an earlier departure any day that week if someone needs a riding sidekick. drop me a line.
qwer

[Shaq Diesel]

Are we still going to sit down and do a rough sketch of the trip? Would be nice to do it soon so I can start figuring out what I'll need to get.

[Juice]

How about Tuesday of this upcoming week? Lets say Starbucks on Jefferson?



Are we still going to sit down and do a rough sketch of the trip? Would be nice to do it soon so I can start figuring out what I'll need to get.

[Shaq Diesel]

I have a softball game Tuesday evening. Unless if you want to meet at around 8pm.

[Juice]

Monday?


I have a softball game Tuesday evening. Unless if you want to meet at around 8pm.

[Shaq Diesel]

I'm free Monday.

[Juice]

How about the Starbucks on Jefferson? Say 6:00?

[Shaq Diesel]

the one near Corporate?

[Juice]

No, Kinda across the street from Churchills.




the one near Corporate?

[Shaq Diesel]

not showing it on starbucks.com but if it's in that area I should be able to find it... Do you have an exact address on it?

[Juice]

My Bad....It is a CC'S


not showing it on starbucks.com but if it's in that area I should be able to find it... Do you have an exact address on it?

[Juice]

The New version of Google Earth Kicks Ass


Our Hotel.

http://i11.tinypic.com/4v86xr8.jpg

[Juice]

Hey Stu

Are we on for today? 6:00 @ CC'S on Jefferson?

[Shaq Diesel]

Yeah, I'll probably be going there straight after work so traffic might make me a few minutes late.

[kajunKLR]

Yeah, I'll probably be going there straight after work so traffic might make me a few minutes late.

how about the minutes of the meeting (MOM)?

[Shaq Diesel]

umm... I'll try to sum it up...

- Leaving Thursday afternoon to make it to Dallas for Thursday night.

- Leaving Friday to spend some time in a place I can't remember the name of then try to make it to the Colorado border for night.

- Saturday the goal is to get to Pike's Peak and spend Saturday and Sunday in that area.

- Monday we're shooting for Moab, UT

- Tuesday we'll be exploring more around the general Moab area then hot-shot it to Vegas

- Wednesday-Friday will be Juice's anniversary stuff. I'll probably end up getting my 6000 mile service done and explore something around Vegas (haven't decided yet).

- Saturday we start the trek home. Probably visits to Grand Canyon and Big Bend on the way back.

- Plan is to get in Sunday night or Monday.

- Plan is to do lots of photography and just let things flow as they flow. The only hard points of the trip is arriving at Vegas for Tuesday afternoon/evening.

- We also cursed out Juice's lack of memory in his laptop and a on/off internet connection at CC's.

[scootertrash]

DAmn it! Moab, ahhhhh freakin work!


umm... I'll try to sum it up...

- Leaving Thursday afternoon to make it to Dallas for Thursday night.

- Leaving Friday to spend some time in a place I can't remember the name of then try to make it to the Colorado border for night.

- Saturday the goal is to get to Pike's Peak and spend Saturday and Sunday in that area.

- Monday we're shooting for Moab, UT

- Tuesday we'll be exploring more around the general Moab area then hot-shot it to Vegas

- Wednesday-Friday will be Juice's anniversary stuff. I'll probably end up getting my 6000 mile service done and explore something around Vegas (haven't decided yet).

- Saturday we start the trek home. Probably visits to Grand Canyon and Big Bend on the way back.

- Plan is to get in Sunday night or Monday.

- Plan is to do lots of photography and just let things flow as they flow. The only hard points of the trip is arriving at Vegas for Tuesday afternoon/evening.

- We also cursed out Juice's lack of memory in his laptop and a on/off internet connection at CC's.

[Juice]

My hotel reservations are Tuesday-Thursday so at checkout time on Friday the 28th I will be free to move about the country. That should give us 3 1/2 days to make it back to the Rizanch.....




umm... I'll try to sum it up...

- Leaving Thursday afternoon to make it to Dallas for Thursday night.

- Leaving Friday to spend some time in a place I can't remember the name of then try to make it to the Colorado border for night.

- Saturday the goal is to get to Pike's Peak and spend Saturday and Sunday in that area.

- Monday we're shooting for Moab, UT

- Tuesday we'll be exploring more around the general Moab area then hot-shot it to Vegas

- Wednesday-Friday will be Juice's anniversary stuff. I'll probably end up getting my 6000 mile service done and explore something around Vegas (haven't decided yet).

- Saturday we start the trek home. Probably visits to Grand Canyon and Big Bend on the way back.

- Plan is to get in Sunday night or Monday.

- Plan is to do lots of photography and just let things flow as they flow. The only hard points of the trip is arriving at Vegas for Tuesday afternoon/evening.

- We also cursed out Juice's lack of memory in his laptop and a on/off internet connection at CC's.

[Juice]

Looks like we might have picked up another rider out of Houston. Scott from RM.

[Juice]

Hey Stu

You can fill out a service appointment request ticket here. (http://www.bmwoflasvegas.com/service_request.asp)

[Juice]

For my reference and nothing more


Moab to I-70 via 191 (flat n' straight)

- I-70 West to exit 147/route 24 (flat n' straight)
- Route 24 to Hanksville (flat n' straight)
- Hanksville to Torrey (scenic)
- Route 12 at Torrey to Route 89 (very scenic)
- Route 89 to route 14 (okay)
- Route 14 to Cedar City (scenic)
- I-15 Cedar City to LV (slab)

Expect a significant increase in temps as you reach St. George, through Mesquite and into LV.

On the map:
1) Moab
2) Torrey
3) Cannonville
4) LV

http://i12.tinypic.com/6cr5s1j.jpg

[JayD]

umm... I'll try to sum it up...

Monday we're shooting for Moab, UT

- Tuesday we'll be exploring more around the general Moab area


Been to Moab/Canyon lands/ Arches a coupla times


Try Potash road and Shaefer rd which lead to the White Rim trail which I don't advise ya'll to go to far on with 90-10 tires and a full load

http://www.dm.net/~bahwolf/moab2005/moab2005-4.htm

Great photo ops too

http://www.pbase.com/jaydee/image/54056222/original.jpg

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Colorado_06_196T-72.jpg
.

[Juice]

More info for myself.....


The route mapped about it roughly 515 miles. All very good tarmac. The route is popular with everyone running Harley's to GS's to Stroms ... pretty much any road bike.

How long? Guess that would depend on your riding style and stamina. I do Moab to Cedar City in a day easy on a loaded KLR with a few stops with and have plenty of energy left.

The I-15 stretch from Cedar City to Vegas is wide open to move on. Heads up: I-15 between St George and LV can get damn windy in the afternoon.

There is really no way to save (or shave) miles when riding from east to west southern UT. Going south out of Moab through AZ and over to Vegas is about the same mileage without the scenery.

[Rocky]

Its going to be foogin hot in Moab. You guys be safe and remember to hydrate.

[LaHotsauce]

I'm about 90% certain I'll be on this ride, but I've never gone on a trip like this before. I've been shopping for some luggage and I'm on a budget. I want to get some soft saddlebags but I need to keep the rain out too. Any suggestions?

[Dusty]

What are you riding?


I'm about 90% certain I'll be on this ride, but I've never gone on a trip like this before. I've been shopping for some luggage and I'm on a budget. I want to get some soft saddlebags but I need to keep the rain out too. Any suggestions?

[ONE LOVE]

Nice photos jayD.

[LaHotsauce]

What are you riding?
2005 Hayabusa

[JayD]

Nice photos jayD.

thanks,
it's real easy to get good shots out there, just point and shoot

[Klantz]

I'm about 90% certain I'll be on this ride, but I've never gone on a trip like this before. I've been shopping for some luggage and I'm on a budget. I want to get some soft saddlebags but I need to keep the rain out too. Any suggestions?

I've got some old cortech soft bags that would fit... they aren't completely waterproof, but they work and I wouldn't be asking for much... I might even be heading to Houston this coming weekend, but not for sure. PM me if you want more details

[LaHotsauce]

I've got some old cortech soft bags that would fit... they aren't completely waterproof, but they work and I wouldn't be asking for much... I might even be heading to Houston this coming weekend, but not for sure. PM me if you want more details
PM sent...

[Juice]

Hey Scott

How many miles can you get to a tank?

[LaHotsauce]

Hey Scott

How many miles can you get to a tank?
In theory about 250, depending on the pace.

[kajunKLR]

guys,
i sincerly regret to inform you that it looks like i will not be making the ride after all of this antisipation. seems the Air condition on my new house (13 tons) has shit itself. and along with it, goes my funding for the trip. i am looking at anywhere from 18k to 25k to replace them. much duck work to do and also insulation. elect bill has been 950+ the last two months. i do apologise and i really wish i could make it but things just don't seem to be going my way at this time. i may take a couple days and take a ride up to ark or tenn. but i have to get home and settle the damage. i do appricate ya'll allowing me the oppertunity to tag along. drink a few for me. qwer

Regards
Chris

[Rocky]

Man, that blows. Sorry to hear about your misfortune but congrtas on the new crib.


guys,
i sincerly regret to inform you that it looks like i will not be making the ride after all of this antisipation. seems the Air condition on my new house (13 tons) has shit itself. and along with it, goes my funding for the trip. i am looking at anywhere from 18k to 25k to replace them. much duck work to do and also insulation. elect bill has been 950+ the last two months. i do apologise and i really wish i could make it but things just don't seem to be going my way at this time. i may take a couple days and take a ride up to ark or tenn. but i have to get home and settle the damage. i do appricate ya'll allowing me the oppertunity to tag along. drink a few for me. qwer

Regards
Chris

[Juice]

Sorry to hear that Chris. You will be greatly missed.




guys,
i sincerly regret to inform you that it looks like i will not be making the ride after all of this antisipation. seems the Air condition on my new house (13 tons) has shit itself. and along with it, goes my funding for the trip. i am looking at anywhere from 18k to 25k to replace them. much duck work to do and also insulation. elect bill has been 950+ the last two months. i do apologise and i really wish i could make it but things just don't seem to be going my way at this time. i may take a couple days and take a ride up to ark or tenn. but i have to get home and settle the damage. i do appricate ya'll allowing me the oppertunity to tag along. drink a few for me. qwer

Regards
Chris

[kajunKLR]

even though i can't make the ride, something good has come out of the preperations for the trip. below is a list of task that i had scheduled for the trip. i purchased much farkle and plan on doing the mods in the comming weeks. * indicates purchased and waiting for me at home.

task
*doo hickey / clean oil screen
*install 16T counter sprocket
weld shift lever
valve adjustment
oil and filter change
install 12 volt plugin.
*do T mod on carb
check wiring for fan, by bolt under the tank.
*install nerf bars
subframe bolt upgrade
*install new avon tires
*install fork brace
change fork oil
*install new footpegs
bypass sidestand and clutch switches
*install handlebar risers
*install throttle lock
install tool tube
*replace jetson pipe with new one / received upgrade free of charge
*install tank bag
construct backrest
make lanyard for top box

the term "All dressed up and nowhere to go" certainly comes to mind!

[kajunKLR]

even though i can't make the ride, something good has come out of the preperations for the trip. below is a list of task that i had scheduled for the trip. i purchased much farkle and plan on doing the mods in the comming weeks. * indicates purchased and waiting for me at home.

task
*doo hickey / clean oil screen
*install 16T counter sprocket
weld shift lever
valve adjustment
oil and filter change
install 12 volt plugin.
*do T mod on carb
check wiring for fan, by bolt under the tank.
*install nerf bars
subframe bolt upgrade
*install new avon tires
*install fork brace
change fork oil
*install new footpegs
bypass sidestand and clutch switches
*install handlebar risers
*install throttle lock
install tool tube
*replace jetson pipe with new one / received upgrade free of charge
*install tank bag
construct backrest
make lanyard for top box

the term "All dressed up and nowhere to go" certainly comes to mind!

[Fitty]

Hey Juice. Just looked at your route through Utah. If you have the time, continuing down 89 to 9 through Zion is VERY scenic too. One of my favorites last year. Doesn't take too long either.

[Fitty]

Check out pictures 57-79 at this link:

http://public.fotki.com/fitty/west_coast_gather_-_2006/page4.html

57-68 or 69 are taken on 12, with the rest taken on 9.

This is on 9.

http://images27.fotki.com/v995/photos/6/613910/3964819/P8240076Medium-vi.jpg

[Juice]

Awesome, thanks Bill.



Check out pictures 57-79 at this link:

http://public.fotki.com/fitty/west_coast_gather_-_2006/page4.html

57-68 or 69 are taken on 12, with the rest taken on 9.

This is on 9.

http://images27.fotki.com/v995/photos/6/613910/3964819/P8240076Medium-vi.jpg

[Shaq Diesel]

ok, so I'm thinking of starting to pack...

I'm assuming that the Denver (an hence Colorado since I'm too lazy to research temperatures for the whole route) area will be in the 60's. Higher elevations will be colder but I'll assume the coldest temperature we'll see is in the 50's (am I right?).

[Juice]

Pikes Peak Forecast (http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?site=PUB&llon=-105.219588&rlon=-104.869588&tlat=38.990417&blat=38.642917&smap=1&mp=1&map.x=124&map.y=108)

[Shaq Diesel]

Pikes Peak Forecast (http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?site=PUB&llon=-105.219588&rlon=-104.869588&tlat=38.990417&blat=38.642917&smap=1&mp=1&map.x=124&map.y=108)

damn... Have I mentioned the farthest north I have been in Virginia in the early fall?

You're making me want to get a heated liner now... :) Oh well, I guess I'll just get to try out the liner in the jacket I have.

[Juice]

I think that Pikes Peak will prolly be the worst of it. Prolly be some snow on the ground as well.....

[Shaq Diesel]

Another thing... Laundry breaks. Granted I don't do a lot of hotel staying and whatnot but how easy/hard is it to get hotels to do laundry service for you?

Juice and I talked about some techniques (well one technique) for packing for such a long ride. Basically just pack a bunch of clothes at the beginning and throw away things like cheap t-shirts and underwear (clothing items in most need of washing on a trip) as you go.

While that is still an alternative, I was thinking of an alternate plan. Basically bringing enough clothes to get you to Vegas (with a little extra to wear there) and getting your stuff washed for the return trip. It means you'll be riding around with a dirty clothes bag for some of the trip but it does cut down on the cost of throwing away cheap clothes (in exchange for paying to have a smaller amount of them cleaned). With the "throwing away" plan you'll pack heavy entering the trip and come home lite. With the "washing" plan you pack moderate and come home moderate, with the option of throwing away on the return trip if you need room for souveniors.

After looking at the weather mapping of the trip I (with my southern inbred hate of all things that are below 50 degrees F) will probably need to pack some addition warm weather clothes for Colorado/UT. This means I'll have to toss in a sweater and possibly long john pants for about 3 days in the trip. This makes the thought of washing a little bit more attractive.

Anyways, I sense I am about to enter a "Rambling State" so I'll cut it short right here. But I would like to get some thoughts on washing versus throwing away to see if I am missing something here.

Also, if anyone sees any deals on cheap t-shirts/underwear on sale (you know the 5 for $5 type deals) let me know. I'll be looking but since clothes shopping is not my fortay I'll probably end up missing something.

[Juice]

Stu, the Under Armour stuff will wash great in a sink at a hotel or rest area. I am only packing 3 days of street cloths, everything else is sink washable or disposable. Keep in mind that you will most probably come home with more then you brought. Especially when traveling through areas you have never been.

[Shaq Diesel]

Well, I have my clothes packing list just about set. Now I get to choose which wonderful gadgets I'll be bringing along... :)

[Juice]

Both the bike and myself are 100% complete and ready to geaux.......All I got left to do is pack. 9 days and counting.


rocket.ride:food;Danc.enBobies

[Shaq Diesel]

I was suppose to be ready this weekend. But then I started playing around with taking the dogs to the park and discovering the "Superstar" mode of Madden 2008... Needless to say you're well ahead of me.

I did get my key issue with my Jesse's solved and I'll probably mount them semi-permanently today as a "first step" gesture. I should start packing clothes to see if I am going to regret not getting Micatech's. :)

[Rocky]

Don't forget to see the donkey show. Its a must see.

[HeReaux]

Juice,if i fed ex my good luck tiki to you,will you put him in the crotch of 7 different strippers??

[I_FLY_LOW]

rule of thumb, from the avation community, barring any temperature inversions, or any other meterological anomolies... you lose 3 degrees of temperature per each thousand foot increase in elevation.. ie: @ sl, 70 degrees, @ 5000' would be 55 degrees.. @ 10000' would be 40 degrees... so pack accordingly..

[Fitty]

Brian, check out this pic of Zion. Not mine, I found it on a photo site. I'm pretty sure that's hwy 9 you see going through it. Beautiful.

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Zion.jpg

[Shaq Diesel]

I might not come back if that is anything near what those pictures describe. Time to go buy some more memory cards... :)

[Juice]

Wait till you see Nikki.




I might not come back if that is anything near what those pictures describe. Time to go buy some more memory cards... :)

[Shaq Diesel]

If Ted doesn't make it to Vegas I won't have my "Nikki" radar... :)

[Ritten]

Trust me........if you're a guy then you already HAVE "Nikki radar"!!

[Juice]

Stu, Did you book your room yet? I think Scott booked at the Stratosphere.

[LaHotsauce]

Yes I did. Brian, shall I book us one in Dallas too?

[Shaq Diesel]

Yeah, Scott and I have it worked out.

[Rocky]

Where is that? Utah?


Brian, check out this pic of Zion. Not mine, I found it on a photo site. I'm pretty sure that's hwy 9 you see going through it. Beautiful.

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Zion.jpg

[Fitty]

Yes. SW Utah. Zion NP.

[Juice]

Hey Stu

where you wanna meet me at Thursday afternoon?

[Ritten]

Looks like I'm officially out of the trip due to uncertainties with work. Ya'll be sure to call me if you need anything and I can run the phones or get info if need be. Enjoy the trip guys!

[minig0d]

Damn Juice this almost is turning into a solo trip after all!

[LaHotsauce]

Damn Juice this almost is turning into a solo trip after all!
You're right! I probably won't make it either.

[CapoLee]

Be safe and have a good trip.Wish I could go.Should be back on my bike soon.qwer

[Juice]

How are you feeling Scott?



You're right! I probably won't make it either.

[LaHotsauce]

I'm okay, but I can't get my surgury today. I have a 1:00 appointment for an exam only.

[Shaq Diesel]

Man, that sucks to hear about your accident. Is there a lot of pain or do they have you on pain killers to numb it?

[LaHotsauce]

Plenty of Vicodin. Doc says I don't need surgury at this time. I'm almost certain I can make the trip. I do however have another appointment at noon Thursday.

Here's a pic. Its gross. Click at your own risk.

http://roseway.net/Photo_091507_002.jpg




http://roseway.net/Photo_091507_002.jpg

[Juice]

Would make one hell of a ride report..........Rawk On!!!!!!!!!



Plenty of Vicodin. Doc says I don't need surgury at this time. I'm almost certain I can make the trip. I do however have another appointment at noon Thursday.

Here's a pic. Its gross. Click at your own risk.

http://roseway.net/Photo_091507_002.jpg

[Shaq Diesel]

Because I like to wait until the last minute...

Cargo-nets versus bungie cords, anyone have a strong preference either way? I thought I had some bungie cords but I remember my parents took them the last time they came to visit. Now I need to get something to tie down a duffle bag...

Also, anyone know of any good camera shops in the BR area? I'm looking for a place that actually stocks camera equipment and not just a place to buy a P&S.

[Juice]

I use ratchet straps cut to length. My loaded bag with camping gear weights in at about 75 lbs. I think that is asking a little much out of bungies. From experience I find that the ratchet straps work the best.


http://www.talcospecialties.com/images/longwide1.jpg



Because I like to wait until the last minute...

Cargo-nets versus bungie cords, anyone have a strong preference either way? I thought I had some bungie cords but I remember my parents took them the last time they came to visit. Now I need to get something to tie down a duffle bag...

[LaHotsauce]

I did a full "dress rehearsal" this evening. I'm using a pair of saddle bags, a tank bag, and a marine duffel bag tied down with a cargo net. It worked great. I have over 50 lbs in the bag and it stayed put no matter how hard I braked accelerated.

Brian, I disagree about going to Amarillo via OKC. Map Point says its 100 miles longer & an hour & a half more time.

[Juice]

I didn't check it for distance but Google earth, Mapsource and Mappoint all three say that it is faster to run I-35 north into Oklahoma. I would really like to tag Oklahoma for the "50 State Race" but not if it is 100 miles out the way. Can anyone that has made this run confirm or deny? Chappy, Tino, Fitty, Ted?






I did a full "dress rehearsal" this evening. I'm using a pair of saddle bags, a tank bag, and a marine duffel bag tied down with a cargo net. It worked great. I have over 50 lbs in the bag and it stayed put no matter how hard I braked accelerated.

Brian, I disagree about going to Amarillo via OKC. Map Point says its 100 miles longer & an hour & a half more time.

[2Evil4U]

I've run that route several times recently getting the kids to their bases in Cali.

I'd recommend 287 through Wichita Falls.

If you need to snag OK, go North on I44 out of Wichita Falls. You'll only have to go about 10 miles out of your way at that point.

I would also recommend that you watch the speed on 287. The cops will turn around to get you at 82 in a 70. (I know.)

My $.02

[minig0d]

Scott?!@?! wtf that sucks man! and shaq if you decide you want to go the bungee cord route you can get a whole mess of em at harbor freight for a few bucks... cargo nets if the walmart by you has their mini motorcycle section they have em for $5 (ones with big plastic hooks not the thin metal ones with rubber coated hooks)

[LaHotsauce]

Then we can do this

[Juice]

Thanks Aaron.




I've run that route several times recently getting the kids to their bases in Cali.

I'd recommend 287 through Wichita Falls.

If you need to snag OK, go North on I44 out of Wichita Falls. You'll only have to go about 10 miles out of your way at that point.

I would also recommend that you watch the speed on 287. The cops will turn around to get you at 82 in a 70. (I know.)

My $.02

[Shaq Diesel]

I have relegated myself to the fact that whatever I am missing, I will just buy on the road. I also know that I am going to freeze my living butt off at Pike's Peak. :)

The only thing I will allow myself to do now is get my house ready and prepare the format for my trip blog/ride report/Documentary on "What the hell am I getting myself into?".

[Shaq Diesel]

Scott?!@?! wtf that sucks man! and shaq if you decide you want to go the bungee cord route you can get a whole mess of em at harbor freight for a few bucks... cargo nets if the walmart by you has their mini motorcycle section they have em for $5 (ones with big plastic hooks not the thin metal ones with rubber coated hooks)

Walmart by my house doesn't have the motorcycle section. Tonight am I going to zip up my duffle and mount it and see how it works out. The more I think about this trip the larger my list of "things to do" grows. So I'm just going to enact the "ahh, f@&k it" moratorium on thinking of things to do and things to pack. If anything, I'll just end up doing a good bit of tourist clothes shopping. :)

[Juice]

Not our route just more of my reference stuff


http://i4.tinypic.com/4ys242q.gif


Start address: Colorado Springs, CO
End address: Moab, UT

Start at: Colorado Springs, CO

1. Head south on S Nevada Ave toward E Colorado Ave - 262 ft
2. Turn right at E Colorado Ave - 1.1 mi
3. Turn left at S Limit St - 0.2 mi
4. Turn right at W Cimarron St - 2.2 mi
5. Continue on US-24 W - 73.7 mi
6. Turn left at US-24/US-285 - 12.3 mi
7. Turn left at CR-302 - 0.7 mi

Arrive at: US-24/US-285

8. Head northwest on CR-302 toward US-24/US-285 - 0.7 mi
9. Turn left at US-24/US-285 - 1.3 mi
10. Slight right toward US-24 - 0.2 mi
11. Slight right at US-24 - 2.3 mi
12. Turn left at CO-306 This road may be seasonally closed - 11.0 mi
13. Turn left at CO-306/CR-321 This road may be seasonally closed - 0.6 mi
14. Slight left at CO-306/CR-321 This road may be seasonally closed - 8.2 mi
15. CO-306/CR-321 turns slightly right and becomes CR-209 This road may be seasonally closed - 1.1 mi
16. Turn left to stay on CR-209 This road may be seasonally closed - 5.2 mi
17. Turn left This road may be seasonally closed - 0.5 mi

Arrive at: Unknown road

18. Head southwest toward CR-209 This road may be seasonally closed - 1.6 mi
19. Turn left at CR-209 This road may be seasonally closed - 0.2 mi
20. Turn left toward CR-55C/Matchless Mountain Rd This road may be seasonally closed - 2.4 mi
21. Turn right toward CR-55C/Matchless Mountain Rd This road may be seasonally closed - 0.3 mi
22. Slight right at CR-55C/Matchless Mountain Rd This road may be seasonally closed - 0.6 mi
23. Turn right to stay on CR-55C/Matchless Mountain Rd This road may be seasonally closed - 0.3 mi
24. Turn left at CR-765 This road may be seasonally closed - 0.2 mi
25. Continue on CR-55 - 1.9 mi
26. Slight left at CR-742 - 1.1 mi
27. Slight left to stay on CR-742 - 5.9 mi
28. Turn left to stay on CR-742 - 10.3 mi
29. Turn right at CR-813/Jacks Cabin Rd Continue to follow CR-813 - 4.1 mi
30. Turn right at CO-135 - 11.6 mi
31. Turn left at WhiteRock Ave - 0.5 mi
32. Continue on CR-12 - 6.2 mi
33. Turn right at CR-826/NF-826 - 0.3 mi
34. Slight left at CR-12E - 1.6 mi
35. Turn right at CR-12 This road may be seasonally closed - 3.7 mi
36. Turn right This road may be seasonally closed - 0.3 mi

Arrive at: CR-12

37. Head south toward CR-12 This road may be seasonally closed - 0.3 mi
38. Turn right at CR-12 This road may be seasonally closed - 6.1 mi
39. Turn left to stay on CR-12 This road may be seasonally closed - 13.3 mi
40. Turn left at CO-133 - 23.5 mi
41. Continue on E Bridge St/CO-92 Continue to follow CO-92 - 20.7 mi
42. Turn right at Main St/US-50 Continue to follow US-50 - 29.8 mi
43. Turn left at CO-141 - 42.8 mi
44. Turn right at 4 2/10 Rd - 0.3 mi

Arrive at: CO-141

45. Head southeast on 4 2/10 Rd toward CO-141 - 0.3 mi
46. Turn right at CO-141 - 34.6 mi
47. Turn right toward CR-Y11 - 0.3 mi
48. Turn right at CR-Y11 - 4.2 mi

Arrive at: CO-141

49. Head south on CR-Y11 toward CR-Y11/River Rd - 7.4 mi
50. Turn right at CR-Y11/River Rd - 0.8 mi
51. Turn right at CO-90 - 4.8 mi

Arrive at: CO-90

52. Head northwest on CO-90 toward W 5 Rd Entering Utah - 11.8 mi
53. Continue on UT-46 - 21.6 mi
54. Turn right at US-191 - 22.1 mi
55. Turn left at W 200 S - 0.1 mi

Arrive at: Moab, UT






Juice- I'm in Grand Junction. If you ride from the Springs and end up in Delta, CO, you'll be on HWY 50. Take it north for about 35 miles. As you approach the "town" of Whitewater, Hwy 141- Unaweep Canyon- will be on your left. You'll see signs for the town of Gateway. It's a beautiful, twisting canyon. When you get into Gateway, you will see the Gateway car museum, Paradox Cafe and the Motor Lodge. Big, new facility built by John Hendricks owner of the discovery channel. Just past the cafe, etc. is the turn off for John Brown Canyon. If it were me, I'd prolly spend the night in Gateway. It's beautiful. The car museum is a Hoot. Good food and drink. If you make it to GJ, look me up. Jim 970-260-4576.

[2Evil4U]

my only other thought , if you're slabbing it through texas would be to take I20 all the way to I35W north in Fort Worth to save yourself from the mess that is the I30/635 interchange in Dallas .

[Juice]

Pikes Peak forecast for

Saturday: A chance of snow. Some thunder is also possible. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 32. West southwest wind between 10 and 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

[Shaq Diesel]

Only rain and snow? No hail or epic lightening strikes? Weak...

[LaHotsauce]

Wanna add Kansas too? Only 50 more miles...

[K2]

my only other thought , if you're slabbing it through texas would be to take I20 all the way to I35W north in Fort Worth to save yourself from the mess that is the I30/635 interchange in Dallas .

Amen 2E4U, and I would go so far as to recommend staying on I-20/Loop 820 West/South around the southern end of the DFW Metromess. I-35W will take you north right up through the middle of downtown FW, but at 9 to 10 pm, it shouldn't be a problem.

[Fitty]

I-35 to Salina and I-70 to Denver is longer but quicker to Denver than Wichita Falls, Amarillo, Dalhart, etc to Denver, but then you aren't going to Denver. Going 35 to OK City to get to Amarillo does add 100 miles. That other route to tag OK is probably better. And since you're going 287 then yes, stay on I-20 to Ft Worth.

But 35 to Salina and 70 to Co Springs adds 120 miles or so, but only 30 minutes. Interstate all the way except for that last bit of highway to Co Springs. Travelling at night I prefer the interstate. You could probably shave that 30 min difference some. It's all up to you. If you do choose this route I would go Hwy 80, 635, 35E to I-35 north, since it will be at night. I came through that way on a Friday morning and it wasn't that bad. Night would be no problem and it's shorter through Dallas.

Wish I could go with you guys. I have a feeling Stu is going to add some entertainment value to this trip. :D

[Juice]

Full Dress Rehearsal

http://juicebox.smugmug.com/photos/197932972-L.jpg

http://juicebox.smugmug.com/photos/197933393-L.jpg

[LaHotsauce]

Guys, please call me just before you hit the road.

Ride SAFE!

[Juice]

FAIL :respect:
Plenty of Vicodin. Doc says I don't need surgury at this time. I'm almost certain I can make the trip. I do however have another appointment at noon Thursday.

Here's a pic. Its gross. Click at your own risk.

http://roseway.net/Photo_091507_002.jpg




http://roseway.net/Photo_091507_002.jpg