It dawned on me the other day that I may not have thanked all of the people who helped me at some point in my preparation for this tour.
Brothers Ron and Jack. Dudes, many thanks for the hospitality. You made me feel comfortable and welcome in your homes. Thanks also to Kathy and Margee.
Danny Short has been a nearly always available riding companion. Danny and I learned about mountain riding together over the past 10 months or so. We talked for hours about cornering and braking...and how to avoid trouble. We have logged thousands of miles so far, hope there's a few more.
Keith Campbell has been with me from the start and was my first riding companion. I go to Keith when I need the straight scoop. We don't ride together enough.
Sherry. You held down the fort for almost two weeks...not a trivial matter. Thanks Sherry. Love, Bob.
The unabridged and fully authorized telling of Bob Frame's very first long distance motorcycle tour. I'm happy to have you along for the ride.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Monday, October 3, 2011
September 25: The Greatest Football Game Ever
So maybe the title is a bit, oh...exaggerated? Perhaps not my friend. Perhaps not.
Brother Jack and I left for the local sports bar where we planned to watch a bunch of games, but none as important as the Bills-Patriots game. As it turned out, it was a fabulous game that had everything going for it.
For starters, both teams are 2-0 for the season. The Bills had lost 15 in a row to the Pat's. Nobody beats the Bills 16 times in a row. Right? I mean...
The Pat's have a QB, His Majesty Tom Brady, who is one of the all time greats. The Bills have one of the few Harvard grads playing QB and he's got maybe 2 seasons under his belt. His uniform still had the price tag on it.
The Pat's come into Orchard Park and quickly put a choke hold on the Bills and go up 21-0.
I figure it's over and suggest, "Let's go see if we can find some volunteer work Jack, this thing is over".
"Au contrair", says Jack, who knows a thing or two about football.
And slowly the Bills begin to show signs of life. Ultimately they picked Sir Tom Brady off four freaking times. He hadn't been intercepted in nearly 500 passes. That nearly a year's worth. Get's robbed four times in one game. A week or so later, Jack sent me an email reminding me that after he'd been intercepted for the fourth time, someone said, "Now tell Brady ta go get his fuckin' shine box."
The Bills start scoring and slow the Pat's way down. With the score tied, the Bills throw a pass over the middle and he ends up in the end zone. Wait, he touched a knee...no TD...spot ball on the 1 yard line..run the clock out...kick a FG. Bills win.
Awesome. Just awesome.
Brother Jack and I left for the local sports bar where we planned to watch a bunch of games, but none as important as the Bills-Patriots game. As it turned out, it was a fabulous game that had everything going for it.
For starters, both teams are 2-0 for the season. The Bills had lost 15 in a row to the Pat's. Nobody beats the Bills 16 times in a row. Right? I mean...
The Pat's have a QB, His Majesty Tom Brady, who is one of the all time greats. The Bills have one of the few Harvard grads playing QB and he's got maybe 2 seasons under his belt. His uniform still had the price tag on it.
The Pat's come into Orchard Park and quickly put a choke hold on the Bills and go up 21-0.
I figure it's over and suggest, "Let's go see if we can find some volunteer work Jack, this thing is over".
"Au contrair", says Jack, who knows a thing or two about football.
And slowly the Bills begin to show signs of life. Ultimately they picked Sir Tom Brady off four freaking times. He hadn't been intercepted in nearly 500 passes. That nearly a year's worth. Get's robbed four times in one game. A week or so later, Jack sent me an email reminding me that after he'd been intercepted for the fourth time, someone said, "Now tell Brady ta go get his fuckin' shine box."
The Bills start scoring and slow the Pat's way down. With the score tied, the Bills throw a pass over the middle and he ends up in the end zone. Wait, he touched a knee...no TD...spot ball on the 1 yard line..run the clock out...kick a FG. Bills win.
Awesome. Just awesome.
Some thoughts.....
Started to call this "Final Thoughts". Sounded kind of somber.
"Some" has a lot of benefits when you know you can't be precise about things.
My overview: This was one of those experiences that is so densely packed that it takes a while for everything to settle in so that you can begin to assess how you actually feel about it. I have a sense that some of the minor issues/experiences are going to emerge as more dominant thems of how I feel about it overall.
My overwhelming sense now is first, I had a great time... two, that it was much, much tougher physically than I expected... and three, I am undecided about whether I'll do another one. Need time to let things settle in.
Drivers: A-....drivers were great for the most part...even the trucks. The truck drivers had tough conditions, especially on I-81...I could see the wind pushing them all over. When I was on Route 21N I had a guy in a small car come at me sideways having lost some control on a wet turn. Had an older guy in 441 try to take me out with a needless lane change. But the truckers were great drivers and always courteous to me.
Aerostich: A-....the fabric of the Darien suit is spot on for the conditions I was in. Much colder and I think we're asking for a raise...to a Road Crafter, let's say. But windproof, waterproof (light rain is all I tested), pretty warm. Don't like the collar...tough to get it comfortable and sealed snugly.
The Distance (2,000 miles): C...really was too long and I felt that it was at the outside limit of what I am (currently) capable of physically. Not to say I couldn't get in better shape and handle it better.
ST1300: C....WHAT??? a "C"?...Why? It's science... the average of A (for all the power and reliability...and good handling and great brakes, etc.) and the F for the things it truly misses on (like a readable dashboard and....well.....like that for one). Seriously, the bike did great, never skipped a beat...I became buddies with this motor...power to get you out of a sticky situation).
Sidi boots: B...holding up pretty well, but always a PIA to put on-take off. Kept my feet warm...mostly.
Gerbing Jacket and gloves: B...heat is uneven, but even "uneven heat" is life saving, welcome and so helpful to being able to concentrate on the traffic and the road.
iPad: F...you heard me, a stinking F. Found it impossible to blog from, checking full motion radar maps was impossible, hate the non-keyboard, using it to get email is awful. Bought a Macbook, packed the iPad and sent it home.
Regions Bank Vias Debit Card: F...this is a debit card attached to my personal checking account. Loads of money in the bank. Called them before I left to advise them of my travel plan. Whipped it out at the Apple Store and they refused it. Ran it twice. Called the Regions Bank number on card. Said there was a Visa Network Failure. I know this is BS, since I ultimately paid with a Charles Schwab Visa debit card. Lucy, you got some splainin' to do.
Weather.com: C...better than nothing but not terribly accurate. It will get you close, but can't predict rain worth a crap.
iPhone: A...for a travel tool, it is hard to beat. In fact, I've never seen anything better. Phone, text messager, music player, location based stuff-great, generate a map of where you happen to be- wow!! Fact is, I am still in the early stages of understanding how and when to use this gizmo. But gotta admit...cool tool.
Russell Day-Long seat: B-...still got a bit uncomfortable late in the day...but hey, it works.
Alaska Sheepskin: B+...could have had a bit more "cush"...but life is definitely better with it than without it.
"Some" has a lot of benefits when you know you can't be precise about things.
My overview: This was one of those experiences that is so densely packed that it takes a while for everything to settle in so that you can begin to assess how you actually feel about it. I have a sense that some of the minor issues/experiences are going to emerge as more dominant thems of how I feel about it overall.
My overwhelming sense now is first, I had a great time... two, that it was much, much tougher physically than I expected... and three, I am undecided about whether I'll do another one. Need time to let things settle in.
Drivers: A-....drivers were great for the most part...even the trucks. The truck drivers had tough conditions, especially on I-81...I could see the wind pushing them all over. When I was on Route 21N I had a guy in a small car come at me sideways having lost some control on a wet turn. Had an older guy in 441 try to take me out with a needless lane change. But the truckers were great drivers and always courteous to me.
Aerostich: A-....the fabric of the Darien suit is spot on for the conditions I was in. Much colder and I think we're asking for a raise...to a Road Crafter, let's say. But windproof, waterproof (light rain is all I tested), pretty warm. Don't like the collar...tough to get it comfortable and sealed snugly.
The Distance (2,000 miles): C...really was too long and I felt that it was at the outside limit of what I am (currently) capable of physically. Not to say I couldn't get in better shape and handle it better.
ST1300: C....WHAT??? a "C"?...Why? It's science... the average of A (for all the power and reliability...and good handling and great brakes, etc.) and the F for the things it truly misses on (like a readable dashboard and....well.....like that for one). Seriously, the bike did great, never skipped a beat...I became buddies with this motor...power to get you out of a sticky situation).
Sidi boots: B...holding up pretty well, but always a PIA to put on-take off. Kept my feet warm...mostly.
Gerbing Jacket and gloves: B...heat is uneven, but even "uneven heat" is life saving, welcome and so helpful to being able to concentrate on the traffic and the road.
iPad: F...you heard me, a stinking F. Found it impossible to blog from, checking full motion radar maps was impossible, hate the non-keyboard, using it to get email is awful. Bought a Macbook, packed the iPad and sent it home.
Regions Bank Vias Debit Card: F...this is a debit card attached to my personal checking account. Loads of money in the bank. Called them before I left to advise them of my travel plan. Whipped it out at the Apple Store and they refused it. Ran it twice. Called the Regions Bank number on card. Said there was a Visa Network Failure. I know this is BS, since I ultimately paid with a Charles Schwab Visa debit card. Lucy, you got some splainin' to do.
Weather.com: C...better than nothing but not terribly accurate. It will get you close, but can't predict rain worth a crap.
iPhone: A...for a travel tool, it is hard to beat. In fact, I've never seen anything better. Phone, text messager, music player, location based stuff-great, generate a map of where you happen to be- wow!! Fact is, I am still in the early stages of understanding how and when to use this gizmo. But gotta admit...cool tool.
Russell Day-Long seat: B-...still got a bit uncomfortable late in the day...but hey, it works.
Alaska Sheepskin: B+...could have had a bit more "cush"...but life is definitely better with it than without it.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
October 2: Abingdon, VA to Toccoa, GA
Highlights:
Sunday morning broke relatively clear and cold...temp 45F.
Got a late start...around 9:00AM
I-81 was a different experience today...light traffic. no trucks, no rain, no wind...nice riding conditions
Turned left on I-26 at Bristol, TN and headed south. Almost immediately the road became a legitimate scenic highway...absolutely brilliant views. Road rose to nearly 6,000', weaving through the valleys and over the gaps. The temps dropped into the high 30's. Gerbing jacket and gloves, now properly connected, worked beautifully...I never gave the cold a second thought. Also used a skull cap and a buff pulled way up on my head...very comfortable.
Arrived in Asheville before noon only to find that the interstate was shut down and I was forced onto a city street. Decided at that point to turn my life over to Garmin. Set the destination for "Home" and did what it told me....something I would not normally dare to do, given Garmin's willingness to send me on all manner of wild goose chases.
In 15 minutes I was on I-40 westbound, looking for a way onto the BRP. A good ways out of town I found the BRP and hopped on it southbound. Rode it most of the way to Cherokee and it was spectacular...bright sunny skies. light traffic, cool, no...make that COLD temps (down to 37F at 5,500'). The views were just gorgeous, though I was not inclined to spend much time at the overlooks.
At the first sign for Cherokee I dropped off the parkway and began a monstrous descent into the town of Cherokee where I found McDonalds for lunch. Had the most pitiful Native American wait on me...absolutely pathetic. Had approximately 3 teeth and could barely speak.
Weather still mostly sunny and very cool...no more that 55F.
Quickly found 441S and knew I'd be home soon. Ride south was smooth with light traffic and great weather.
Arrived home around 2:30PM.
Final thoughts to follow.
Sunday morning broke relatively clear and cold...temp 45F.
Got a late start...around 9:00AM
I-81 was a different experience today...light traffic. no trucks, no rain, no wind...nice riding conditions
Turned left on I-26 at Bristol, TN and headed south. Almost immediately the road became a legitimate scenic highway...absolutely brilliant views. Road rose to nearly 6,000', weaving through the valleys and over the gaps. The temps dropped into the high 30's. Gerbing jacket and gloves, now properly connected, worked beautifully...I never gave the cold a second thought. Also used a skull cap and a buff pulled way up on my head...very comfortable.
Arrived in Asheville before noon only to find that the interstate was shut down and I was forced onto a city street. Decided at that point to turn my life over to Garmin. Set the destination for "Home" and did what it told me....something I would not normally dare to do, given Garmin's willingness to send me on all manner of wild goose chases.
In 15 minutes I was on I-40 westbound, looking for a way onto the BRP. A good ways out of town I found the BRP and hopped on it southbound. Rode it most of the way to Cherokee and it was spectacular...bright sunny skies. light traffic, cool, no...make that COLD temps (down to 37F at 5,500'). The views were just gorgeous, though I was not inclined to spend much time at the overlooks.
At the first sign for Cherokee I dropped off the parkway and began a monstrous descent into the town of Cherokee where I found McDonalds for lunch. Had the most pitiful Native American wait on me...absolutely pathetic. Had approximately 3 teeth and could barely speak.
Weather still mostly sunny and very cool...no more that 55F.
Quickly found 441S and knew I'd be home soon. Ride south was smooth with light traffic and great weather.
Arrived home around 2:30PM.
Final thoughts to follow.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
October 1: Gaithersburg, MD to Abingdon, VA
Just going to post a few thoughts...details to follow.
8AM depart from Jacks...light rain, temp lo 50's....Jack and Margee up early to say goodbye. They've been great hosts both coming and going. "Thanks" to Jack and Margee.
route was 270S to 495S to 66W to 81S....100% interstates, in the rain, in the wind, in the traffic.
missed turn on I495...in the rain, in the traffic, early in the ride....way to go idiot. btw, the error took me a whole lot closer to DC than I intended. Massive idiot. Lets make a uTurn via the interstates...in WASHINGTON, DC ferchrissakes. Pulled it off somehow. Scared shitless. Through construction detours...Jack warned me. Somehow I found I-66 and made the transition. Rain, wind and getting colder. Settle in kiddo...this can't last all day. It doesn't last...but it disappears and then reappears. All day.
traffic numbers moderate...but ...super fast and aggressive...couple of 100MPH idiots, in the rain, in the traffic. I make peace with the notion that I'm going to have to ride in the 70-80 mph or be constantly caught in slower traffic. The trucks cruise at 70-75...passing one means a burst of speed to 80+ to punch past them. Then settle in at 75-77 until the next bunch appears ahead.
A word on trucks...god bless them- they do important work. But man do they disrupt some air. Sometimes I'd feel them ahead of me a from a long ways off. A couple of times I had a truck come up from behind when I wasn't aware they were back there (I know, I know) and it felt like someone was shoving my left side. The turbulence they create is amazing...feels like you are getting punched at first. Nervous as hell. But I eventually learned to take the beating and get over it.
trucks constant for 300 miles...just effing brutal. they travel in small convoys of 4-7 trucks...a real pleasure passing them...in the traffic, in the rain, in the wind. Don't want to get caught next to one for any longer than needed.
temp started dropping mid day and hit 43F.
noticed that Gerbing jacket and gloves were not working and thought I had a malfunction....Lights come on, but no heat...never thought to check my connections. Why would I?
left leg cramp while rolling at 75mph on I-81...jesus, I nearly jumped off.
wind was strong, gusty...really got slapped around...but not as bad as the trucks. did I mention the trucks?
longest day I've ever done...400....rode until my body said, "Hey asshole, that's it." This was a difficult day, to say the least, but it positions me toget home in three days. I need some recovery time and prep time for our British Columbia trip to visit Nick.
football traffic going to va tech for a football game was treacherous. 70 mph speed limit meant 75-80, with the trucks, in the cold, in the wind. I hope tech gets beaten by 75 points.
BTW, Aerostich gear rules. Stayed dry, wind blocked, felt secure and protected. Can't wait to see how the Roadcrafter suits does.
Saved the best for last: Forecast for snow tomorrow at elevations 3000'+...Abingdon sits at 2,000'. (EDIT: snow never happened. Typical TV news hysteria...sorry Jack)
Actually, this is the best: The Gerbing "malfunction" was pilot error...this nimrod connected it wrong. Won't make that mistake again.
Hampton Inn, nice hotel...room was comfortable, great bed sheets and pillows, nice bathroom, good TV and fast internet. They let me park the bike under the front canopy- lit up at night, protected.
8AM depart from Jacks...light rain, temp lo 50's....Jack and Margee up early to say goodbye. They've been great hosts both coming and going. "Thanks" to Jack and Margee.
route was 270S to 495S to 66W to 81S....100% interstates, in the rain, in the wind, in the traffic.
missed turn on I495...in the rain, in the traffic, early in the ride....way to go idiot. btw, the error took me a whole lot closer to DC than I intended. Massive idiot. Lets make a uTurn via the interstates...in WASHINGTON, DC ferchrissakes. Pulled it off somehow. Scared shitless. Through construction detours...Jack warned me. Somehow I found I-66 and made the transition. Rain, wind and getting colder. Settle in kiddo...this can't last all day. It doesn't last...but it disappears and then reappears. All day.
traffic numbers moderate...but ...super fast and aggressive...couple of 100MPH idiots, in the rain, in the traffic. I make peace with the notion that I'm going to have to ride in the 70-80 mph or be constantly caught in slower traffic. The trucks cruise at 70-75...passing one means a burst of speed to 80+ to punch past them. Then settle in at 75-77 until the next bunch appears ahead.
A word on trucks...god bless them- they do important work. But man do they disrupt some air. Sometimes I'd feel them ahead of me a from a long ways off. A couple of times I had a truck come up from behind when I wasn't aware they were back there (I know, I know) and it felt like someone was shoving my left side. The turbulence they create is amazing...feels like you are getting punched at first. Nervous as hell. But I eventually learned to take the beating and get over it.
trucks constant for 300 miles...just effing brutal. they travel in small convoys of 4-7 trucks...a real pleasure passing them...in the traffic, in the rain, in the wind. Don't want to get caught next to one for any longer than needed.
temp started dropping mid day and hit 43F.
noticed that Gerbing jacket and gloves were not working and thought I had a malfunction....Lights come on, but no heat...never thought to check my connections. Why would I?
left leg cramp while rolling at 75mph on I-81...jesus, I nearly jumped off.
wind was strong, gusty...really got slapped around...but not as bad as the trucks. did I mention the trucks?
longest day I've ever done...400....rode until my body said, "Hey asshole, that's it." This was a difficult day, to say the least, but it positions me toget home in three days. I need some recovery time and prep time for our British Columbia trip to visit Nick.
football traffic going to va tech for a football game was treacherous. 70 mph speed limit meant 75-80, with the trucks, in the cold, in the wind. I hope tech gets beaten by 75 points.
BTW, Aerostich gear rules. Stayed dry, wind blocked, felt secure and protected. Can't wait to see how the Roadcrafter suits does.
Saved the best for last: Forecast for snow tomorrow at elevations 3000'+...Abingdon sits at 2,000'. (EDIT: snow never happened. Typical TV news hysteria...sorry Jack)
Actually, this is the best: The Gerbing "malfunction" was pilot error...this nimrod connected it wrong. Won't make that mistake again.
Hampton Inn, nice hotel...room was comfortable, great bed sheets and pillows, nice bathroom, good TV and fast internet. They let me park the bike under the front canopy- lit up at night, protected.
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