Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
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Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
We left off less than a 1/4 the way to Stewart yesterday.
Stopped at this gas station. Really old pump, the kind where the mechanical numbers roll in a circle. Did not get a pic!
Did meet a couple of German guys riding there. BMW and KLR. The KLR was changing his oil in the parking lot. We have seen them off and on for a week as we are traveling similar routes.
When Mary went inside to pay for the gas, she got a few shots of the store decor, here is one.
We had rain off and on all day, enough for the rain suit pants...sorta cold too, but the heated jacket liners did their job.
The trucks up here aren't shy of the roads, they move right along, but they are pretty good about staying in their lane.
We are getting into some of the mountains leading up to Stewart!
Amazing views. BC is full of incredible mountains and surprises.
One of those grated bridges some of you were asking about.
I sure am happy that only the first bit of road was bumpy. This has turned into a fantastic day of riding!
More in next post.
We left off less than a 1/4 the way to Stewart yesterday.
Stopped at this gas station. Really old pump, the kind where the mechanical numbers roll in a circle. Did not get a pic!
Did meet a couple of German guys riding there. BMW and KLR. The KLR was changing his oil in the parking lot. We have seen them off and on for a week as we are traveling similar routes.
When Mary went inside to pay for the gas, she got a few shots of the store decor, here is one.
We had rain off and on all day, enough for the rain suit pants...sorta cold too, but the heated jacket liners did their job.
The trucks up here aren't shy of the roads, they move right along, but they are pretty good about staying in their lane.
We are getting into some of the mountains leading up to Stewart!
Amazing views. BC is full of incredible mountains and surprises.
One of those grated bridges some of you were asking about.
I sure am happy that only the first bit of road was bumpy. This has turned into a fantastic day of riding!
More in next post.
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- #123
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
We stopped at this little rest stop and ate some sandwiches Mary had fixed.
Read about avalanches. The mountain pictured on the sign is the same mountain as in the following pic.
Little less snow when we were there. Not as cold either!
It was chilly though. Had on long johns, jeans, and rain suit for the rain AND the cold. Also, you can see I had put the soft lowers on.
Going over another metal grate bridge. Marys view to the left of the bike.
Marys view to the right and down.
There were two bears on the side of the road. We watched them for about 10 minutes. One ignored us, this one kept looking over at us.
Fantastic riding. Makes the gravel/construction worth it!
We turn off the 37 onto the 37A heading west toward Stewart!
Instead of the stories we had heard of this particular part of the road being the worst, it is the opposite. Great road, fantastic land!
These glaciers are huge, the pictures just don't convey how large they are.
More in next post.
We stopped at this little rest stop and ate some sandwiches Mary had fixed.
Read about avalanches. The mountain pictured on the sign is the same mountain as in the following pic.
Little less snow when we were there. Not as cold either!
It was chilly though. Had on long johns, jeans, and rain suit for the rain AND the cold. Also, you can see I had put the soft lowers on.
Going over another metal grate bridge. Marys view to the left of the bike.
Marys view to the right and down.
There were two bears on the side of the road. We watched them for about 10 minutes. One ignored us, this one kept looking over at us.
Fantastic riding. Makes the gravel/construction worth it!
We turn off the 37 onto the 37A heading west toward Stewart!
Instead of the stories we had heard of this particular part of the road being the worst, it is the opposite. Great road, fantastic land!
These glaciers are huge, the pictures just don't convey how large they are.
More in next post.
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- #124
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
This glacier comes right down to the road, only thing between the road and the glacier is the river. It is possible to hike over to it. In this picture, IF there was anyone there, they would just be a little speck. That is how big this thing is.
Here's another one that is even closer. There is just a stream between us and it. But it is just a fraction of the size.
The road into Stewart is a BLAST to ride. Lots of curves and towering mountains on either side of the road.
Then I made a mistake. I was at the front of the line, right behind the Pilot truck for the last few km's into Stewart.
This was by far the dustiest we and the bike have gotten on the entire trip.
We hosed the bike off, and we used some towels to wipe down our leather jackets, rain suit pants, boots, gloves and helmets. They started out white and looked muddy at the end.
The main drag in Stewart.
That car/tank/snowmobile looks like a lot of fun in the snow!
We saw some larger stores further north...but none in a town literally surrounded by glaciers!
This was our home the night we stayed in Stewart.
This glacier comes right down to the road, only thing between the road and the glacier is the river. It is possible to hike over to it. In this picture, IF there was anyone there, they would just be a little speck. That is how big this thing is.
Here's another one that is even closer. There is just a stream between us and it. But it is just a fraction of the size.
The road into Stewart is a BLAST to ride. Lots of curves and towering mountains on either side of the road.
Then I made a mistake. I was at the front of the line, right behind the Pilot truck for the last few km's into Stewart.
This was by far the dustiest we and the bike have gotten on the entire trip.
We hosed the bike off, and we used some towels to wipe down our leather jackets, rain suit pants, boots, gloves and helmets. They started out white and looked muddy at the end.
The main drag in Stewart.
That car/tank/snowmobile looks like a lot of fun in the snow!
We saw some larger stores further north...but none in a town literally surrounded by glaciers!
This was our home the night we stayed in Stewart.
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- #125
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Cool! Thank you for the feedback!
Cool! Thank you for the feedback!
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- #126
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Sidetracked and delayed.
We are leaving out of Stewart, headed for Prince George. It was not to be.
Packing up.
This is a very cool little town. Amazing sights, every where you look.
Stewart is right next to Hyder, Alaska...just a few km away. The only way to get to Hyder is by going thru Stewart, Canada.
We figure a 30-45 minute ride over & back, and then we'll be on our way to PG.
Nice little putt over, enjoying the view.
We arrive in Hyder. Even though it is an International border, there was no stop or checkpoint going into the USA here.
Here's the main drag in Hyder. Less than 150 people live here.
Mary says there is a place set up right outside of town by the US Park Service where we might see some bears. She read about it in the Milepost book.
Ok, let's go.
Wow, the road is so nice. Better than anything we have ridden on in thousands of miles!
Amazing scenery too!
More in next post.
Sidetracked and delayed.
We are leaving out of Stewart, headed for Prince George. It was not to be.
Packing up.
This is a very cool little town. Amazing sights, every where you look.
Stewart is right next to Hyder, Alaska...just a few km away. The only way to get to Hyder is by going thru Stewart, Canada.
We figure a 30-45 minute ride over & back, and then we'll be on our way to PG.
Nice little putt over, enjoying the view.
We arrive in Hyder. Even though it is an International border, there was no stop or checkpoint going into the USA here.
Here's the main drag in Hyder. Less than 150 people live here.
Mary says there is a place set up right outside of town by the US Park Service where we might see some bears. She read about it in the Milepost book.
Ok, let's go.
Wow, the road is so nice. Better than anything we have ridden on in thousands of miles!
Amazing scenery too!
More in next post.
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- #127
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
We get to the place.
It is a long, elevated walkway that was built right along a stream.
When the salmon are running the bears come out and fish and you can watch them from above on the walkway.
Park Ranger lets us know they are not running right now, but we are welcome to walk down it.
They have a few educational signs up-
On the walkway.
We did not see any bears. Saw some bear poop.
Imagined what the stream would look like with the salmon running.
It is a nice view, on both sides of the walkway. Got to stretch our legs in prep for the anticipated 700 km ride to PG.
When we get back to the end of the walkway, the Park Ranger asks if we are going to ride up to the glacier?
Says it is absolutely amazing, best glacier view anywhere. Says it is definitely worth it if our bike can make it. It is 17 miles of gravel road and you end up ABOVE the glacier.
Ok...we did the Haul Road to the Arctic Circle, we can do 17 miles.
Off we go.
We get to the place.
It is a long, elevated walkway that was built right along a stream.
When the salmon are running the bears come out and fish and you can watch them from above on the walkway.
Park Ranger lets us know they are not running right now, but we are welcome to walk down it.
They have a few educational signs up-
On the walkway.
We did not see any bears. Saw some bear poop.
Imagined what the stream would look like with the salmon running.
It is a nice view, on both sides of the walkway. Got to stretch our legs in prep for the anticipated 700 km ride to PG.
When we get back to the end of the walkway, the Park Ranger asks if we are going to ride up to the glacier?
Says it is absolutely amazing, best glacier view anywhere. Says it is definitely worth it if our bike can make it. It is 17 miles of gravel road and you end up ABOVE the glacier.
Ok...we did the Haul Road to the Arctic Circle, we can do 17 miles.
Off we go.
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Thank you for sharing your ride with us. The pictures are great! ThumbUp
Thank you for sharing your ride with us. The pictures are great! ThumbUp
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Loving every minute of it ,,,gonna miss it when you get back home but wish you the best of luck ....BE SAFE
Loving every minute of it ,,,gonna miss it when you get back home but wish you the best of luck ....BE SAFE
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
I can not begin to tell you how much I am enjoying your adventure. Ride safe
I can not begin to tell you how much I am enjoying your adventure. Ride safe
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- #131
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Before heading up the road....
I found a few more pics at Fish Creek, where the elevated walkway is.
Before walking out on it, I asked the Ranger, "don't the bears ever come up on the walkway?".
His answer was, "that has happened only a couple of times". :blink:
Right before the walkway started there was this display.
Even though there were no bears there...notice how Mary does not have her hand even on the rail? lol
We walked to the end...there was this sign. ROFL... The only emergency I could think of is a bear coming up on the walkway. Not sure how this exit, which led down to the woods near the creek, would serve any benefit. lol
Pic of Salmon Glacier coming up next...taking awhile, there are more than 400 pics to choose from.
Before heading up the road....
I found a few more pics at Fish Creek, where the elevated walkway is.
Before walking out on it, I asked the Ranger, "don't the bears ever come up on the walkway?".
His answer was, "that has happened only a couple of times". :blink:
Right before the walkway started there was this display.
Even though there were no bears there...notice how Mary does not have her hand even on the rail? lol
We walked to the end...there was this sign. ROFL... The only emergency I could think of is a bear coming up on the walkway. Not sure how this exit, which led down to the woods near the creek, would serve any benefit. lol
Pic of Salmon Glacier coming up next...taking awhile, there are more than 400 pics to choose from.
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- #132
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Thank you!
Cool! Still got a way to go to get back to Mississippi!
Cool! Thank You, we will!
Thank you!
Cool! Still got a way to go to get back to Mississippi!
Cool! Thank You, we will!
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- #133
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Ok, now we are headed up to Salmon Glacier.
Road looks good...relatively speaking.
You can see from the plants on the side of the road that it can be dusty...but for the entire 17 miles up we only saw several other vehicles, so for us the dust was not an issue, and the road was pretty smooth. There were a few rough spots, but Mary had gotten so used to them...she did not even take any pics. lol
Somewhere around this part of the road we had learned two things:
1. We were back in Canada
2. This was not a public road...it is a private road for a gold mining company. They maintain it, and allow the public to travel on it, but its' primary purpose is to enable the company to travel to their different mine sites.
We do know that we are on the right road though!
The vastness and beauty here is the same as what we have seen in the rest of BC.
The road is fun in a lot of spots too.
We stopped about halfway up, took a few pics, ate a sandwich, and just enjoyed the amazing creation all around us.
Still snow on the sides of the road in places.
We saw well over a dozen waterfalls in the 17 miles up.
If the road looks steep and winding...it was. We climbed 3700 feet in the 17 miles...probably 3000 of them in the last 8 miles.
More in the next post.
Ok, now we are headed up to Salmon Glacier.
Road looks good...relatively speaking.
You can see from the plants on the side of the road that it can be dusty...but for the entire 17 miles up we only saw several other vehicles, so for us the dust was not an issue, and the road was pretty smooth. There were a few rough spots, but Mary had gotten so used to them...she did not even take any pics. lol
Somewhere around this part of the road we had learned two things:
1. We were back in Canada
2. This was not a public road...it is a private road for a gold mining company. They maintain it, and allow the public to travel on it, but its' primary purpose is to enable the company to travel to their different mine sites.
We do know that we are on the right road though!
The vastness and beauty here is the same as what we have seen in the rest of BC.
The road is fun in a lot of spots too.
We stopped about halfway up, took a few pics, ate a sandwich, and just enjoyed the amazing creation all around us.
Still snow on the sides of the road in places.
We saw well over a dozen waterfalls in the 17 miles up.
If the road looks steep and winding...it was. We climbed 3700 feet in the 17 miles...probably 3000 of them in the last 8 miles.
More in the next post.
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- #134
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
We made it to the summit. Small parking area, restrooms, and amazing views everywhere you turn.
Just sittin, trying to take it all in.
After just looking for 15-20 minutes, we walk across the road to look around, and for a better view.
Made it up...not much of a climb for most, but with my leg and foot...I'm just glad I could get up there to share the views with Mary.
A few panoramic shots. No need to say much...pics speak for themselves.
In this shot, the narrowest point across the glacier is a little over 1 kilometer...just to give a bit of an idea of how big this is!
More in next post.
We made it to the summit. Small parking area, restrooms, and amazing views everywhere you turn.
Just sittin, trying to take it all in.
After just looking for 15-20 minutes, we walk across the road to look around, and for a better view.
Made it up...not much of a climb for most, but with my leg and foot...I'm just glad I could get up there to share the views with Mary.
A few panoramic shots. No need to say much...pics speak for themselves.
In this shot, the narrowest point across the glacier is a little over 1 kilometer...just to give a bit of an idea of how big this is!
More in next post.
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- #135
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
As much as I liked this place, Mary liked it even more!
We explored quite a bit.
Took lots of pics.
Then she realized that this is bear country, and we were up there alone, no bear spray. I told her to head on down I will take some pics and follow her.
The two German guys we met a few days ago arrive.
We met and talked with Keith Scott, "The Bear Man". He live up here at the summit during the summer. Has a tent set up near the restrooms.
He goes down the hill once a week for groceries. The rest of the week he is up here selling his DVD's, pictures and book.
He has been down to the glacier many times. He had some pictures of where he had set up his tent UNDERNEATH the glacier in a cavern. Crazy guy!
Well, our 30-45 minutes to Hyder before heading to Prince George turned into over 5 hours. We will not make Prince George today...but the sidetrack was WELL WORTH IT!
Will cover the ride down, and on to New Hazelton tomorrow.
As much as I liked this place, Mary liked it even more!
We explored quite a bit.
Took lots of pics.
Then she realized that this is bear country, and we were up there alone, no bear spray. I told her to head on down I will take some pics and follow her.
The two German guys we met a few days ago arrive.
We met and talked with Keith Scott, "The Bear Man". He live up here at the summit during the summer. Has a tent set up near the restrooms.
He goes down the hill once a week for groceries. The rest of the week he is up here selling his DVD's, pictures and book.
He has been down to the glacier many times. He had some pictures of where he had set up his tent UNDERNEATH the glacier in a cavern. Crazy guy!
Well, our 30-45 minutes to Hyder before heading to Prince George turned into over 5 hours. We will not make Prince George today...but the sidetrack was WELL WORTH IT!
Will cover the ride down, and on to New Hazelton tomorrow.
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- #136
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Leaving the Salmon Glacier, headed back to Stewart/Hyder.
We see a lot more vehicles on the way down than we did up. Little bit of dust, but not bad.
We are not pulled over to the side. This is the view Mary had on the ride down....looking back at the Glacier...and down the side of the road.
Another shot looking back. We had gone at least a mile and it still looks massive!
Looking forward. BC never fails to amaze.
Back close to the base mining camp...reminder that this is not a public road.
Another reminder...view off the right side of the bike as we are headed back...that is a LONG ways down.
Mining company 18 wheeler hauling ass up the hill.
At the bottom, still in Canada, getting close to Hyder.
More in next post.
Leaving the Salmon Glacier, headed back to Stewart/Hyder.
We see a lot more vehicles on the way down than we did up. Little bit of dust, but not bad.
We are not pulled over to the side. This is the view Mary had on the ride down....looking back at the Glacier...and down the side of the road.
Another shot looking back. We had gone at least a mile and it still looks massive!
Looking forward. BC never fails to amaze.
Back close to the base mining camp...reminder that this is not a public road.
Another reminder...view off the right side of the bike as we are headed back...that is a LONG ways down.
Mining company 18 wheeler hauling ass up the hill.
At the bottom, still in Canada, getting close to Hyder.
More in next post.
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- #137
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Back on pavement in the US for a few minutes before crossing back into Canada.
Back in Hyder. Recognize those bikes?
While there was no Customs station or checkpoint going from Canada into the US at Hyder, there is a Customs checkpoint going from Hyder, USA back into Canada. Showed our passports, answered a few questions and we were on our way.
Back at the "Largest Supermarket in the North" in Stewart, picking up some groceries for the rest of the day.
We left Stewart 5-6 hours earlier, we still have a ways to go.
Back at the dusty construction zone right outside of Stewart.
Yep, I'm in the front of the line. But I re-learned my lesson coming into town.
When the pilot truck arrived, I let everyone go in front of me, then hung way back and stayed out of their dust.
Looking back at our little dust trail.
Back on the pavement making time!
37A, the road from Stewart to the Cassiar hwy is a lot of fun!
We stop at the glacier and have a sandwich. This looked so big (and it is BIG) on the way in. After seeing Salmon Glacier it does not seem so big.
More in next post.
Back on pavement in the US for a few minutes before crossing back into Canada.
Back in Hyder. Recognize those bikes?
While there was no Customs station or checkpoint going from Canada into the US at Hyder, there is a Customs checkpoint going from Hyder, USA back into Canada. Showed our passports, answered a few questions and we were on our way.
Back at the "Largest Supermarket in the North" in Stewart, picking up some groceries for the rest of the day.
We left Stewart 5-6 hours earlier, we still have a ways to go.
Back at the dusty construction zone right outside of Stewart.
Yep, I'm in the front of the line. But I re-learned my lesson coming into town.
When the pilot truck arrived, I let everyone go in front of me, then hung way back and stayed out of their dust.
Looking back at our little dust trail.
Back on the pavement making time!
37A, the road from Stewart to the Cassiar hwy is a lot of fun!
We stop at the glacier and have a sandwich. This looked so big (and it is BIG) on the way in. After seeing Salmon Glacier it does not seem so big.
More in next post.
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- #138
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
We're back on the Cassiar now. Not going to make PG today, but we're shooting for Smithers.
Making good time. Running close to 80 mph and eating up the miles.
We've been traveling thru some beautiful country. Decide to stop at one of the dozens of streams we have crossed today.
Just messing around, testing out my new waterproof boots.
Oh yeah, that feels good to clean away a bit of the dust.
Ready? 1-2-3 click.
Back on the Cassiar.
Mary's getting some great pics, I'm starting to think about gas. It has been close to 150 miles since I've seen a gas station that's been open. (it's around 8:30 pm, and the two I've seen in the last 70 miles were already closed for the day)
Here we go!
Started in Stewart about 9 hours ago...lol
More in next post.
We're back on the Cassiar now. Not going to make PG today, but we're shooting for Smithers.
Making good time. Running close to 80 mph and eating up the miles.
We've been traveling thru some beautiful country. Decide to stop at one of the dozens of streams we have crossed today.
Just messing around, testing out my new waterproof boots.
Oh yeah, that feels good to clean away a bit of the dust.
Ready? 1-2-3 click.
Back on the Cassiar.
Mary's getting some great pics, I'm starting to think about gas. It has been close to 150 miles since I've seen a gas station that's been open. (it's around 8:30 pm, and the two I've seen in the last 70 miles were already closed for the day)
Here we go!
Started in Stewart about 9 hours ago...lol
More in next post.
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- #139
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
We're both a bit tired, decide to see if there is a place to stay in New Hazelton instead of pushing on to Smithers.
BC is definitely a place we want to spend more time in.
This is what happens sometimes when taking pics rolling down the road.
There, that's better without the trees in front of it.
Made it to New Hazelton a little after 9pm.
We're both a bit tired, decide to see if there is a place to stay in New Hazelton instead of pushing on to Smithers.
BC is definitely a place we want to spend more time in.
This is what happens sometimes when taking pics rolling down the road.
There, that's better without the trees in front of it.
Made it to New Hazelton a little after 9pm.
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Still loving every pic ,,,ride safe
Still loving every pic ,,,ride safe
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- #141
Blondie Gal
Gone but not forgotten.
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
We're having SUCH a good time riding along with you and Mary! Thanks to you both for the great pictures!
We're having SUCH a good time riding along with you and Mary! Thanks to you both for the great pictures!
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- #143
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
So today I am taking a break from posting pics to answer a couple of questions that I have had.
1. What mods did I make to the bike for this trip, and how have they worked out.
In 2012 we took a 11,000 mile trip through 16 States and 1 Canadian Province. There were a few things during that trip that I knew I wanted to change prior to the next big trip.
A. Get the heat under better control.
Last year we spent some time in traffic and the EITMS would kick in.
Also, on long runs interstate runs at 75-85 mph, in high ambient temps (90+*), the oil temp would start creeping above 230*, which is not acceptable to me.
I did two things to address this-
Traded out the PCV for a Power Vision
Installed the CVS fan from Wards Parts Werks
The Power Vision is an amazing tool that has worked well for me. Before leaving I did a bunch of auto-tuning (with the narrow band sensors) and got it running better than ever, and better MPG too. This was in 80* temps.
That is the map I used the entire time. However, as noted in an earlier post, I was able to use the "Tweak" tuning and the realtime MPG and Throttle position readings to get me better MPG when we needed to make it to a gas station that actually had gas. lol
ALSO, when we got into some warm temps, I am able to monitor the engine temp on the PV and use the "Tweak" tuning to richen it up a bit so as not to run hotter than I wanted.
Lots of other benefits to the PV. Very pleased with it.
The other thing I did was install the Ward Parts Werks CVS fans. I have known about these for awhile. Just did not want to spend the money, plus the looks of them was not all that appealing to me.
Well, I bit the bullet and installed it. WOW! The fans direct air right over the hottest part of the engine (right over the spark plugs). Works better than a parade fan that pushes the majority of the air between the cylinders, plus I can keep my cowbell in place.
EITMS has not kick in one time. Engine temp, as displayed on the PV, is an average of 20* cooler while running down the road. At an idle, just sitting, the engine temp would actually drop and stabilize around 210-220.
Very happy with the CVS.
B. Prepped for the gravel and dust that turns to cement when wet.
Took a piece of plastic (from an old saddle-bag liner) and make a front fender mud flap. Only 1.5", but that is all it took to keep mud & rocks off the oil cooler. It also never dragged the ground.
Mud Guard
Also, I normally run my Outlaw Air Cleaner with an exposed element. I keep a rain sock with me that I use if I'm in heavy rain for extended periods of time.
However, after reading how the dust turns to a cement like material when it gets wet, I changed my cover from a Cyclone style to a Bobber style. Has worked great!
Cyclone Style Cover
Bobber Style Cover
C. Prepare for the cold up north.
I normally run an 8" recurve windshield during the summer and a TALL Flat-top recurve windshield during the winter.
Since we were going to be doing some of our traveling in some pretty warm weather, and other in some pretty cold, I compromised and put the stock windshield back on. This gave us more air in the hot weather than my flat-top, and better protection in the cold weather than my 8" recurve.
A good compromise.
We already have been using gerbing jackets for a couple years now. We have one power port for a dual controller for the two jackets. Well, we thought it would be cold enough that we would want heated gloves also. So we added the gerbing gloves to our gear, and added a second power port for another dual controller.
Turns out that we wore the gerbing gloves quite a bit, but we never had to actually put any power to them.
C. More electricity!
On our last long trip we took I would spend a LOT of time each night making sure all the batteries were charged.
2 cell phones
MP3 Player
2 camera batteries
3 video camera batteries
Even though all were topped off every morning, sometimes we would run out of camera or video battery before the end of riding.
So I picked up a power-point at wally world and installed it in the tour-pak. Ran a line directly to the battery (with an in-line fuse). With that I added a 4 port USB hub so that we could be charging going down the road.
This is much better, I no longer need to be switching out batteries in the chargers in the middle of the night. Nor do we run out of charge during the days when Mary is snapping hundred of pics.
D. Highway peg heel rests.
Adding heel rests to the highway pegs added several extra positions to how I can stretch out. Huge improvement!
There are lots of other mods to the bike, but I'm pretty sure these were all that we did in prep for this trip.
Next post will be answering the other question we have had many times....What all did we pack? Will get to that one tomorrow.
So today I am taking a break from posting pics to answer a couple of questions that I have had.
1. What mods did I make to the bike for this trip, and how have they worked out.
In 2012 we took a 11,000 mile trip through 16 States and 1 Canadian Province. There were a few things during that trip that I knew I wanted to change prior to the next big trip.
A. Get the heat under better control.
Last year we spent some time in traffic and the EITMS would kick in.
Also, on long runs interstate runs at 75-85 mph, in high ambient temps (90+*), the oil temp would start creeping above 230*, which is not acceptable to me.
I did two things to address this-
Traded out the PCV for a Power Vision
Installed the CVS fan from Wards Parts Werks
The Power Vision is an amazing tool that has worked well for me. Before leaving I did a bunch of auto-tuning (with the narrow band sensors) and got it running better than ever, and better MPG too. This was in 80* temps.
That is the map I used the entire time. However, as noted in an earlier post, I was able to use the "Tweak" tuning and the realtime MPG and Throttle position readings to get me better MPG when we needed to make it to a gas station that actually had gas. lol
ALSO, when we got into some warm temps, I am able to monitor the engine temp on the PV and use the "Tweak" tuning to richen it up a bit so as not to run hotter than I wanted.
Lots of other benefits to the PV. Very pleased with it.
The other thing I did was install the Ward Parts Werks CVS fans. I have known about these for awhile. Just did not want to spend the money, plus the looks of them was not all that appealing to me.
Well, I bit the bullet and installed it. WOW! The fans direct air right over the hottest part of the engine (right over the spark plugs). Works better than a parade fan that pushes the majority of the air between the cylinders, plus I can keep my cowbell in place.
EITMS has not kick in one time. Engine temp, as displayed on the PV, is an average of 20* cooler while running down the road. At an idle, just sitting, the engine temp would actually drop and stabilize around 210-220.
Very happy with the CVS.
B. Prepped for the gravel and dust that turns to cement when wet.
Took a piece of plastic (from an old saddle-bag liner) and make a front fender mud flap. Only 1.5", but that is all it took to keep mud & rocks off the oil cooler. It also never dragged the ground.
Mud Guard
Also, I normally run my Outlaw Air Cleaner with an exposed element. I keep a rain sock with me that I use if I'm in heavy rain for extended periods of time.
However, after reading how the dust turns to a cement like material when it gets wet, I changed my cover from a Cyclone style to a Bobber style. Has worked great!
Cyclone Style Cover
Bobber Style Cover
C. Prepare for the cold up north.
I normally run an 8" recurve windshield during the summer and a TALL Flat-top recurve windshield during the winter.
Since we were going to be doing some of our traveling in some pretty warm weather, and other in some pretty cold, I compromised and put the stock windshield back on. This gave us more air in the hot weather than my flat-top, and better protection in the cold weather than my 8" recurve.
A good compromise.
We already have been using gerbing jackets for a couple years now. We have one power port for a dual controller for the two jackets. Well, we thought it would be cold enough that we would want heated gloves also. So we added the gerbing gloves to our gear, and added a second power port for another dual controller.
Turns out that we wore the gerbing gloves quite a bit, but we never had to actually put any power to them.
C. More electricity!
On our last long trip we took I would spend a LOT of time each night making sure all the batteries were charged.
2 cell phones
MP3 Player
2 camera batteries
3 video camera batteries
Even though all were topped off every morning, sometimes we would run out of camera or video battery before the end of riding.
So I picked up a power-point at wally world and installed it in the tour-pak. Ran a line directly to the battery (with an in-line fuse). With that I added a 4 port USB hub so that we could be charging going down the road.
This is much better, I no longer need to be switching out batteries in the chargers in the middle of the night. Nor do we run out of charge during the days when Mary is snapping hundred of pics.
D. Highway peg heel rests.
Adding heel rests to the highway pegs added several extra positions to how I can stretch out. Huge improvement!
There are lots of other mods to the bike, but I'm pretty sure these were all that we did in prep for this trip.
Next post will be answering the other question we have had many times....What all did we pack? Will get to that one tomorrow.
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Thanks for spending time to provide your updates on your bike. This truly will hep those preparing for a trip like your.
At the end of your trip, if your Dont mind, providing a breakdown of your expenses will really help in preparing for an Alaskan trip. So many times, we underestimate the cost and become surprised when we run out of funds.
Thanks again.
Thanks for spending time to provide your updates on your bike. This truly will hep those preparing for a trip like your.
At the end of your trip, if your Dont mind, providing a breakdown of your expenses will really help in preparing for an Alaskan trip. So many times, we underestimate the cost and become surprised when we run out of funds.
Thanks again.
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
I have been following your progress through the days and I am always looking for your post when I cannot see it in the home page. GREAT TRIP!!! GREAT Partner!! and you guys look to be having a GREAT time! Be safe and I am looking forward to more riding.
You are right, Mary is doing a fantastic job with the photos. But hey I think you are doing a great job with the posting. Ride Safe....
I have been following your progress through the days and I am always looking for your post when I cannot see it in the home page. GREAT TRIP!!! GREAT Partner!! and you guys look to be having a GREAT time! Be safe and I am looking forward to more riding.
You are right, Mary is doing a fantastic job with the photos. But hey I think you are doing a great job with the posting. Ride Safe....
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Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Glad it can be a help.
RE: finances...I don't want to think about it now, nor will I probably want to think about it later. :xzqxz:
But you are right! We have been surprised by how expensive food and motels are in Canada! I still have not figured out how Canadians get by. It's not just a little more expensive, it is significant. We are way over budget, have dipped into savings...not just because it is more expensive, but also because we are not covering as many miles per day as projected, making the trip longer than expected/budgeted for.
I am NOT complaining, this is definitely a trip making some amazing memories, but it has been a bit of a surprise $ wise.
I will take some time to do as you asked on a breakdown of expenses.
Yes, I agree! WOW! We will definitely be coming back to BC at some point!
Thank you! Will keep posting!
Glad it can be a help.
RE: finances...I don't want to think about it now, nor will I probably want to think about it later. :xzqxz:
But you are right! We have been surprised by how expensive food and motels are in Canada! I still have not figured out how Canadians get by. It's not just a little more expensive, it is significant. We are way over budget, have dipped into savings...not just because it is more expensive, but also because we are not covering as many miles per day as projected, making the trip longer than expected/budgeted for.
I am NOT complaining, this is definitely a trip making some amazing memories, but it has been a bit of a surprise $ wise.
I will take some time to do as you asked on a breakdown of expenses.
Regarding the Salmon Glacier area (and all of the other BC pictures
Yes, I agree! WOW! We will definitely be coming back to BC at some point!
Thank you! Will keep posting!
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Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
I have been asked a bunch of times, what all did we pack, how often do we do laundry, etc.
So here goes. We planned for a 45 day trip. We also knew that we would be in both HOT & COLD temps.
Regarding the temps. We cheated a little.
We wore our armoured mesh jackets until we hit Missoula, MT. We shipped our leather jackets and Marys leather chaps to Missoula (where our son and granddaughter are). We left the mesh with them and took the leather up into Canada and Alaska and back. Stop by Missoula on the way home for a short visit, swap the leather for the mesh. Pack up the leather and ship it home.
Almost everything else is in the picture below. Sorry it's fuzzy, I took it, not Mary. lol
We use stuff sacks for a few reasons.
* I can cram them in the trunk, taking up all the space available, that would just not be possible with hard cased containers
* We used magic marker on the stuff sacks, identifying what generally is in each one. That way we only have to open the one we want, instead of sorting thru a large bag to find one little thing.
* There is a lot of room in the trunk in the upper rear corners. Amazing how much you can get in them when you have such a flexible bag.
I'm just going to start at the top of the picture and work down.
Small soft cooler. This has one of those hard blue ice things in it that you freeze every night and it stays cold throughout the day. We keep whatever foods that could spoil in there. (sliced turkey, cheese, sandwiches, etc. It stays bungee'd to the rack on the Tour-Pak, along with the 2 gallon gas can.
Upper left-Large Red Stuff Sack- This has a couple of pillows in it and the power cord for the laptop. Yes, we took pillows! Some motel pillows leave a lot to be desired. Gotta have a good nights rest for tomorrows ride. lol Also, if I'm not wearing them, my longjohns go in there.
To the right of that is a zip lock bag. That has the extra batteries and memory cards for the camera and video camera. It goes in the TP at the top for easy access on the road.
To the right of that is a Blue Stuff Sack- This has some of Marys clothes. 2 under-armor type tank tops, 2 cotton tank tops, 1 dress shirt.
To the right of that is a Green Stuff Sack- More Mary clothes. 1 pair of blue jeans. 2 pairs of thin silk/wool long underwear and a long sleeve shirt.
To the right of that is another Green Stuff Sack- More Mary Clothes. 5 sets of underwear, 4 warm weather pairs of socks, 1 cold weather pair of socks, bathing suit.
Moving back to the left, directly to the right of the large red stuff sack is a black overnight bag.
It rolls up to go in the trunk, and unrolls and hangs up in the motel. Picture below.
It has all our tolietries, first aid kit, shampoo, pretty much everything we use on a daily basis at home, plus some.
To the right of that is a smaller Blue Stuff Sack- This has some of Marys clothes. 2 pairs of shorts, 1 skirt, and a Perri Ink Flag T-shirt.
To the right of that is a Medium Size Red Stuff Sack- This has non perishable food in it. Bread, nuts, jerky, etc.
To the right of that is a Blue Stuff Sack- this is all our vitamin bottles. Yeah, we take a lot of vitamins. Since the vitamin companies generally only fill a bottle around half full, and then lots of cotton, before we left we put 2-3 bottles worth in one bottle to save space. Even so, we have had to stop and resupply a couple of times.
On the left is a Yellow Stuff Sack- This is my clothes bag. Pair of blue jeans, 2 pairs of Muck Boot socks, two pair of under-armor type shorts, two under-armor type shirts, pair of short pants and 1 DK Custom cotton shirt with the two portable hard drives wrapped in it.
Hairbrush goes in the TP
To the right of that is a small Red Stuff Sack- this has all my e-cig stuff in it
To the right of that is a Medium Dark Blue Stuff Sack- this has more food stuff in it, can opener, corkscrew, gum, coffee, tea-bags.
To the right of that is a small Red Stuff Sack- this has all the computer wires and battery charges in it...specifically, 8 USB cables, 4 chargers and a mouse for the laptop.
That sort of black looking bag has our passports, receipts, etc. in it. It goes in the TP.
Then there is the large Dark Blue Stuff Sack that does not look full. It has two collapsible fishing poles in it, and all the fishing gear. Sometimes it is in the TP, sometimes it is bungee'd to the rack with the cooler...all depending on what room we have in the TP.
On the left is the gray laptop computer case. It goes in the TP on the bottom.
Then Marys tennis shoes, and we both have a pair of flip-flops.
Then the Milepost book, a regular mapbook, and print-outs of different routes are in the manila envelope.
At the very bottom left is my camo long sleeve shirt and Marys Fireweed long sleeve shirt. Depending on the weather, they are either in the TP or we're wearing them.
Then the Big Black Stuff Sack- This has our cold weather gear:
Scarves, wool neck wraps, quilted flannel shirt, chill blocker gloves and socks. We have not needed this bag. I've worn the flannel shirt a couple of times. Nothing else has been used. Oh, Marys leather chaps go in here when she is not wearing them.
The gerbing jackets have done a great job.
Not pictured/listed above:
What we wear each day, which is in addition to what is listed above.
Also, the following is in the Tour-Pak- Night glasses, CD's, bear spray, sunscreen spray, skin-so-soft, gerbing controllers, two flashlights, Marys brown hoodie, air shock pump, handiwipes. There are always 3-4 water bottles in the TP also.
Also, the following is in the trunk-
Tool bag, which is a overnight bag with two compartments. It is very heavy duty and works much better than the stuff sack I used for years. Marys VERY GOOD idea. Pictured below.
Mini air-compressor, set of sockets and torx, set of lyndal brake pads (front and rear), extra oil line, funnel, octane booster, two cable locks, couple of micro fiber towels, some blue shop towels, trash bag that we use to cover the sheepskin at night, and the soft lowers when not in use.
Also in the trunk are the rain suits when not being worn. These are Dry Bones suits from Pro Sport. They have been working very well for us for quite a few years.
As far as laundry, the muck boot socks and the under-armor shorts and shirts are easily washed in the motel and hung up to dry...they dry quickly. This is done every few days.
We have hit the laundry mat a few times for the jeans and cotton stuff, and Mary has also washed some that in bathtubs a few times. I think we have only been in two motels that had laundry facilities. That was nice.
Oh, we each have our warm weather light weight gloves and our gerbing gloves...so one pair or the other is always in the TP also.
The TP is relocated 2.5" back from stock and Mary has a pocket in the back of my backrest. She keeps the camera in there, sunscreen, water or coffee, tic-tacs, jerky, chap stick. Actually holds quite a bit.
I think that about covers it.
If I think of anything else, I will add it in. Feel free to ask any questions.
I have been asked a bunch of times, what all did we pack, how often do we do laundry, etc.
So here goes. We planned for a 45 day trip. We also knew that we would be in both HOT & COLD temps.
Regarding the temps. We cheated a little.
We wore our armoured mesh jackets until we hit Missoula, MT. We shipped our leather jackets and Marys leather chaps to Missoula (where our son and granddaughter are). We left the mesh with them and took the leather up into Canada and Alaska and back. Stop by Missoula on the way home for a short visit, swap the leather for the mesh. Pack up the leather and ship it home.
Almost everything else is in the picture below. Sorry it's fuzzy, I took it, not Mary. lol
We use stuff sacks for a few reasons.
* I can cram them in the trunk, taking up all the space available, that would just not be possible with hard cased containers
* We used magic marker on the stuff sacks, identifying what generally is in each one. That way we only have to open the one we want, instead of sorting thru a large bag to find one little thing.
* There is a lot of room in the trunk in the upper rear corners. Amazing how much you can get in them when you have such a flexible bag.
I'm just going to start at the top of the picture and work down.
Small soft cooler. This has one of those hard blue ice things in it that you freeze every night and it stays cold throughout the day. We keep whatever foods that could spoil in there. (sliced turkey, cheese, sandwiches, etc. It stays bungee'd to the rack on the Tour-Pak, along with the 2 gallon gas can.
Upper left-Large Red Stuff Sack- This has a couple of pillows in it and the power cord for the laptop. Yes, we took pillows!
Some motel pillows leave a lot to be desired. Gotta have a good nights rest for tomorrows ride. lol Also, if I'm not wearing them, my longjohns go in there.To the right of that is a zip lock bag. That has the extra batteries and memory cards for the camera and video camera. It goes in the TP at the top for easy access on the road.
To the right of that is a Blue Stuff Sack- This has some of Marys clothes. 2 under-armor type tank tops, 2 cotton tank tops, 1 dress shirt.
To the right of that is a Green Stuff Sack- More Mary clothes. 1 pair of blue jeans. 2 pairs of thin silk/wool long underwear and a long sleeve shirt.
To the right of that is another Green Stuff Sack- More Mary Clothes. 5 sets of underwear, 4 warm weather pairs of socks, 1 cold weather pair of socks, bathing suit.
Moving back to the left, directly to the right of the large red stuff sack is a black overnight bag.
It rolls up to go in the trunk, and unrolls and hangs up in the motel. Picture below.
It has all our tolietries, first aid kit, shampoo, pretty much everything we use on a daily basis at home, plus some.
To the right of that is a smaller Blue Stuff Sack- This has some of Marys clothes. 2 pairs of shorts, 1 skirt, and a Perri Ink Flag T-shirt.
To the right of that is a Medium Size Red Stuff Sack- This has non perishable food in it. Bread, nuts, jerky, etc.
To the right of that is a Blue Stuff Sack- this is all our vitamin bottles. Yeah, we take a lot of vitamins.
Since the vitamin companies generally only fill a bottle around half full, and then lots of cotton, before we left we put 2-3 bottles worth in one bottle to save space. Even so, we have had to stop and resupply a couple of times.On the left is a Yellow Stuff Sack- This is my clothes bag. Pair of blue jeans, 2 pairs of Muck Boot socks, two pair of under-armor type shorts, two under-armor type shirts, pair of short pants and 1 DK Custom cotton shirt with the two portable hard drives wrapped in it.
Hairbrush goes in the TP
To the right of that is a small Red Stuff Sack- this has all my e-cig stuff in it
To the right of that is a Medium Dark Blue Stuff Sack- this has more food stuff in it, can opener, corkscrew, gum, coffee, tea-bags.
To the right of that is a small Red Stuff Sack- this has all the computer wires and battery charges in it...specifically, 8 USB cables, 4 chargers and a mouse for the laptop.
That sort of black looking bag has our passports, receipts, etc. in it. It goes in the TP.
Then there is the large Dark Blue Stuff Sack that does not look full. It has two collapsible fishing poles in it, and all the fishing gear. Sometimes it is in the TP, sometimes it is bungee'd to the rack with the cooler...all depending on what room we have in the TP.
On the left is the gray laptop computer case. It goes in the TP on the bottom.
Then Marys tennis shoes, and we both have a pair of flip-flops.
Then the Milepost book, a regular mapbook, and print-outs of different routes are in the manila envelope.
At the very bottom left is my camo long sleeve shirt and Marys Fireweed long sleeve shirt. Depending on the weather, they are either in the TP or we're wearing them.
Then the Big Black Stuff Sack- This has our cold weather gear:
Scarves, wool neck wraps, quilted flannel shirt, chill blocker gloves and socks. We have not needed this bag. I've worn the flannel shirt a couple of times. Nothing else has been used. Oh, Marys leather chaps go in here when she is not wearing them.
The gerbing jackets have done a great job.
Not pictured/listed above:
What we wear each day, which is in addition to what is listed above.
Also, the following is in the Tour-Pak- Night glasses, CD's, bear spray, sunscreen spray, skin-so-soft, gerbing controllers, two flashlights, Marys brown hoodie, air shock pump, handiwipes. There are always 3-4 water bottles in the TP also.
Also, the following is in the trunk-
Tool bag, which is a overnight bag with two compartments. It is very heavy duty and works much better than the stuff sack I used for years. Marys VERY GOOD idea. Pictured below.
Mini air-compressor, set of sockets and torx, set of lyndal brake pads (front and rear), extra oil line, funnel, octane booster, two cable locks, couple of micro fiber towels, some blue shop towels, trash bag that we use to cover the sheepskin at night, and the soft lowers when not in use.
Also in the trunk are the rain suits when not being worn. These are Dry Bones suits from Pro Sport. They have been working very well for us for quite a few years.
As far as laundry, the muck boot socks and the under-armor shorts and shirts are easily washed in the motel and hung up to dry...they dry quickly. This is done every few days.
We have hit the laundry mat a few times for the jeans and cotton stuff, and Mary has also washed some that in bathtubs a few times. I think we have only been in two motels that had laundry facilities. That was nice.
Oh, we each have our warm weather light weight gloves and our gerbing gloves...so one pair or the other is always in the TP also.
The TP is relocated 2.5" back from stock and Mary has a pocket in the back of my backrest. She keeps the camera in there, sunscreen, water or coffee, tic-tacs, jerky, chap stick. Actually holds quite a bit.
I think that about covers it.
If I think of anything else, I will add it in. Feel free to ask any questions.
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
:wave4::wave4:,,,seems as though Mary packs three times as many clothes as you did ,just as Donna does when we go on a little trip ,,ThumbUp ,,,,,LOL ,,, got to be a man thing . Some great imfo and just keep it coming ,look forward to it each day .....pepperpepper
:wave4::wave4:,,,seems as though Mary packs three times as many clothes as you did ,just as Donna does when we go on a little trip ,,ThumbUp ,,,,,LOL ,,, got to be a man thing . Some great imfo and just keep it coming ,look forward to it each day .....pepperpepper
Re: Ride Report- Mississippi to Alaska & Back - Pic Heavy
Thanks for the bike info. The cooling fans looked interesting. I have power for recharging cells/etc in my tour pack for trips.
DW just got a new TG (she lets me drive sometimes) and she is loving it! Almost 300 miles now and we live on an island!
Yes, it is expensive. Even to us Alaskans. We have made the run from Prince Rupert to the USA many times, and it is beautiful.
Bear spray, did you pick some up while in BC? I know Canada customs always asks me about it...
Ride safe!
Thanks for the bike info. The cooling fans looked interesting. I have power for recharging cells/etc in my tour pack for trips.
DW just got a new TG (she lets me drive sometimes) and she is loving it! Almost 300 miles now and we live on an island!
Yes, it is expensive. Even to us Alaskans. We have made the run from Prince Rupert to the USA many times, and it is beautiful.
Bear spray, did you pick some up while in BC? I know Canada customs always asks me about it...
Ride safe!
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