The Way I Figure it...

...we're a little behind schedule.

First, you've got to consider that we are only a bit more than twelve months before we set off on this adventure! If you think for a minute what this trip is going to involve, you will realize what we are up against. We need a good tour plan, reliable machines, riding gear, tools, first aid, communications, support services, cashola, group riding techniques, contingency plans, oh yeah... and quite a bit of riding time in various conditions under our belts. Practice, practice, practice!

So yes, I've got my clipboard out! Remember, though, the only thing separating us from failure once we set out will be preparation and experience. If you think we can just pick up bikes next Spring, throw a leg over the saddle and make it all the way to Tennessee and back safely, I would urge you to reconsider such a notion. A lot of people do just that. Some don't make it back.

Having said that, I wouldn't say we're doomed by any means. In fact, we do have enough time to plan this and prepare well. I look forward to it, really, I was just thinking originally that we would start a tad sooner.

When Patrick started talking about this trip, I knew immediately that I wanted to do it and I thought it would be great for all of us. I didn't do much thinking on it past the initial excitement. Then came September and the NASCAR Weekend. The packet he put together was a nice surprise and rekindled the fire.

In the Fall, a rough timeline started to take shape in my head: WINTER 2009-2010 - route planning and research, overall considerations (Pat brought up whether we wanted to use a support vehicle - prices were reasonable), research on bikes and gear ; SPRING 2010 - narrowing options for bike purchase, sign up for 2 day training (Motorcycle Safety Foundation's Basic Rider Course or Experienced Rider Course*see below) ; SUMMER 2010 - buy a bike and gear, take training, do some riding, come to Maine for a few days for guy time and the experience of a several-day motorcycle trip (this part is critical to work out bugs and to make some decisions about how we will prepare for the big trip and how we will ride together) ; WINTER 2010-2011 read articles on technique, safety, touring, the Dragon's Tail, save up the rest of the cash, purchase any remaining gear (tool kits, etc.), make reservations ; SPRING 2011 - motorcycle maintenance, physical conditioning, take care of business at home (make your significant other happy!), take a break from thinking about the trip ; SUMMER 2011 - get in as much riding time as possible but rest the week prior to the trip.

* I should mention that instead of taking an MSF course, I could run you guys through a modified course in part of a day that would hit the main points and focus on fine tuning your cornering (this is where the most technique is needed; plus, it will be the most critical skill for success on the Dragon's Tail). Guaranteed to be fun and would save you time and money. On the other hand, you would miss out on the insurance discounts you may be entitled to for taking the official course. You might make out better that way in the long term.

Well, that's my proposal, anyway. I'm just working backwards from the ultimate goal. I won't go into all the rationales for taking these steps. It's simply what I've learned. Opinions will vary. Think on it. Imagine what we need to do. Come to your own conclusions. Just remember that if we're riding as a group, we depend on each member having it together. Fatigue, lack of gear, crashes... it won't just ruin things for one person!

If this seems like a lot, consider the basics: get a bike and some comfortable gear, make the trip up here this Summer!