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.