On the Wing Last Year

On the Wing at Tannersville, NY last year.

Picked up the Goldwing this morning. New set of Bridgestone tires installed, brakes and throttle adjusted. Handlebar risers pulled back 1/2 inch putting them right in my palms, at the balance point where I don't have to reach to lean on the bars, and I don't have to pull back to shift my weight back, or from side to side. The grips feel like they're perfectly positioned for riding, at last.

Ramping up to leave

Attending to a few details, the components of my toolkit, first aid kit, and general safety gear. We're thinking less weight and lower volume constantly. For two people on the road for 3+ weeks, with intervals of high altitude roads necessitating the use of winter gear, packing for practical reasons predominates in our planning. Though the winter gear, Gerbing heated jackets and gloves could be shipped to our hotel in Rapid City, SD, it's possible to ride without it for a day. Heated handgrips and a variety of layered pullover, button up or zip up shirts and the full raingear probably render heated clothing unnecessary. But, Barbara will insist on heat, and her comfort is my priority.

Taking the Wing in for a new set of tires today. Though there's plenty of rubber on my Dunlops (10K miles) a new set of Bridgestones should take me cross country and back without trouble (I hope!).

Up and running with plans for the coast-to-coast tour, 2 up on a white goldwing, with the first destination, Sturgis South Dakota.