Old Bull's Motorcycle Blog/Podcast

October is Here

2011-09-30T18:18:00.000-08:00

Autumn colors from my last ride. But that was two weeks ago, now those leaves are on the ground and the snow is creeping down the mountains.
We are only a few weeks away from shoveling snow. That's ok, I got a lot of miles in this summer!

8K This Summer

2011-09-17T18:39:00.000-08:00

I took my road glide in for its 20,000 mile service the other day. Actually, I'm only a couple hundred miles short of 21,000. They convinced me to put on a new rear tire as my old one (new in June) was cracking in a few places. So, that's two rear tires and one front tire this summer. I tell ya, those things aren't cheap.
But, if there is one place a biker should never scrimp, it's tires. Especially in Alaska where the roads aren't always he best and most speed limits are 65 mph.
So, with fresh oil and rubber, I'll be ready early in the spring. Not that riding is over for this year, but it's awful close. It is getting pretty cool outside, in fact I put the liners back in my riding jackets.
I got about 6,000 on the road glide this season, and about 2000 on the super glide, so all in all it was a decent riding year.

Unions Blow!

2011-09-05T10:14:00.000-08:00

Jimmy Hoffa Jr gave a quick intro speech just before Obama in which he called the tea party 'sons of bitches'. That's reeeeaaaal nice you liberals. Just call more names and spew more profanity, that's all you got! HAhahaha. And where are the liberal women groups when women get called bitches? Unions suck!
Yes,I know Harleys are made by union workers, but that's the trade I have to make to ride American. The question is for how much longer? Most of their apparel is made in China, that bothers me.
We have the worst President of my life, we have a wider divide between conservatives and dumb a...., I mean liberals, and it looks like the worst is still ahead.
F-it, I'm going riding, I need my usual therapy.
Later

Last Long Ride of the Season?

2011-09-04T07:37:00.000-08:00

It's Labor Day weekend, a sign that the riding season is almost over for us in Alaska. A few other signs are school has started, the State Fair is almost over, and the leaves have begun to change color. I doubt if we'll see another day over 60 degrees.
So a buddy and I decided to ride to Soldotna for a shirt from the dealer down there. It was a good day of riding where we managed to skirt any real rain showers all day. We had some occassional sprinkles, but never really ran through any hard rain.
I put on about 350 miles for the round trip, but RP had closer to 400, as he had a little farther to go before nightfall. Both bikes ran great with no issues. And the best part was how light the traffic was for the trip. I'm sure the brunt of the weekend traffic was Friday night, which we spent in the garage listening to Skynyrd and drinking whiskey. We took off Saturday morning about 10:45 and returned around 6:30 pm.
Along the way, one stop was at Cooper's Landing for a bread bowl full of Buffalo chili.
At the Harley shop I saw a beautiful new Road Glide Ultra CVO. It was really something. Chrome all over the bike, special order gauges, custom two tone paint, and a $36000 price tag. Whoooops! Slowly step away from the bike Old Bull!
Then, the sales manager cranked up the stereo on a new Ultra Glide. George Thourogood and the Delaware Destroyers at 400 watts. You read that right, 400 watts out of 8 speakers and a hidden sub woofer. It was the loudest bike stereo I've ever heard.
So, will I get any more riding in this season? Yes, of course. September always has a few nicer days for motorcycling, but they get fewer and farther between. I'll still be commuting to work when I can, but yesterday may have been the last full day of distance riding for this year. If it is, it was a good one.
Later.

Weather Reprieve

2011-08-31T15:06:00.000-08:00

I got about 200 miles of riding in on Sunday and Monday. The sun finally came out for a couple days and conditions were good.
Sunday I rode to Anchorage and back, plus a bunch of roads around Eagle River ust to see where they go. About 70 miles that day. Then Monday I rode to work and ended up having to ride to Big Lake and back to pick something up. About 130 miles that day.
I rode to work again on Tuesday, but today It is raining pretty hard.
There is usually some good riding in Alaska right up to the end of September.
Later

Vacation Is Over

2011-07-25T12:20:00.000-08:00

I didn't do a very good job keeping up my posts during my vacation. In my defense, the access to internet was very spotty, and we dealt with quite a bit of rain. I'll get some pictures posted and write a brief recap of the 8 day trip. We rode 3600 miles and camped out most nights.
But now it's back to work, vacation is over. Later.

Day 3

2011-07-17T18:23:00.001-08:00

Day 3 we are overnighting at Fort Nelson. We had a few bouts of rain, but overall it's been decent weather.
tomorrow on to Dawson Creek, however, we may take a side route over to a dam an then south back on 97, and bypass Dawson Creek.

Sent from my iPod

2011-07-15T11:30:00.001-08:00

Day one: entering Canada about 2pm. I hope they are friendly towards Americans!

Vacation 'ey

2011-07-11T19:34:00.000-08:00

Just a couple days away from vacation, when I'm joining a buddy on a 3500 mile trek through the Canadian Yukon Territory. We are riding south on the Alcan Highway and north on the Cassiar Highway.
We both got new tread and tune ups to minimize and breakdowns or problems, and we are camping along the way.
One nice thing about campgrounds in Canada, you can always get firewood.
Should be fun if the weather cooperates at all, I'll let you know.

Later

Iron Butt or Lead Butt?

2011-06-29T06:32:00.000-08:00

A friend and I took off at 5:30 am on 'million mile Monday' for our first ever attempt at earning an Iron Butt membership. You probably know that means riding 1000 miles in less than 24 hours, along with detailed documentation. The bad news is that we did not make the required miles and shut it off in Wasilla. The good news is that we did ride 910 miles and neither of us wrecked! Not like the former Governor of Alabama who wrecked in Fairbanks the same day. He broke some bones but is gonna be OK.
Last summer I rode 715 miles in one day, this year 910 miles, I think I'll succeed on my next attempt.
I'm a little stiff and sore, plus I burned a little around my neck, but overall don't feel too bad for an old man.
I'm sure it will be worse traveling from Anchorage to Chicago on a freakin' plane, which I must do tonight. More on my Iron Butt ride later.

Iron Behind is Ahead

2011-06-24T12:45:00.000-08:00

Only a couple more days until a friend and I try to earn our Iron Butt Certificates. We will be riding our hogs 1000 miles in less than 24 hours. In fact, I think it will be about 18 hours. Now, neither of us has ever tried this feat, and we aren't sure we can do it, but we are both up to the challenge!
They have other awards like 10,000 miles in 10 days, 1500 miles in 36 hours, and stuff like that, but this first one is a good place to start.
If I get a few spare seconds during the ride, I'll tweet how I'm doing long the way.
Now, alot of people ask me why I'm doing this? Some say it's crazy, others think it's dumb. I don't really care about that. Maybe it's none of their business. It's just a challenge to myself to see if I have the stamina and a hard enough ass! Hahaha
OK, later.

Lookin For Sun

2011-06-12T08:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I rode north, trying to chase the sun and get some miles in. I took the old Palmer Highway to avoid some construction at the Knik bridge, then gassed up in Palmer.

I kept heading north through Sutton, and towards the Matanuska Glacier, and so far the sun was on my back. As I approached Sheep Mountain I noticed a ton of dark clouds coming around the shoulder of the mountain, and beyond it looked pretty grey. Then it got dark quick and at mile 121 it started raining. At this point I'm torn between stopping to put on raingear, or running for the restaurant at Eureka, which I knew was close. I hammered down and went for it. So I had to put up with about 4 miles of rain before reaching the restaurant, then went inside for some lunch and to dry off.

While I waited for my chicken fried steak, the rain clouds blew on by and it started drying up. I suppose I was inside about 45 minutes. I ate, drank coffee, and used the restroom before heading back out. I put on my raingear before heading back, as there were still some threatening clouds hanging low in the area. I started bak towards Palmer and quickly noticed the wind had picked up as well. After passing Caribou Creek, the rain was behind me, so I pulled over and peeled out of the raingear and headed for home. Not quite 300 miles, but I'll try going south today.

So far in June the sun has been hit and miss, but the wind seems to be consistent. There's no getting away from the damn wind. Oh well. Later.

Slicker Up

2011-06-04T07:07:00.000-08:00

Now that I have some tea and waffles in me, it's time to hit the road. The weather is supposed to get nasty this afternoon, but oh well. I need to get some miles under my belt to build up to the iron butt. I'll have to suit up in my slickers.
I think I'll head north until I start to tire then turn it around.
Naturally after a great May, June has gone to shit weather wise.
Later.

Weekend Run

2011-06-02T17:34:00.001-08:00

After returning from a rainy Oregon holiday weekend, we've had nothing but clouds and showers. But I'm not going to let that hamper my weekend. I'll monitor the weather closely and decide at the last minute whether I ride south or north.
Right now it looks like north will be the nicest. We shall see.
Later.

The Bears are Out

2011-05-16T17:19:00.001-08:00

The first bear mauling of the year happened today. The man was hunting the bear but the bear ambushed him. The hunted became the hunter!
When hunters are that dumb, kinda makes you root for the bear.
The guy lived, the bear didn't, his hunting partners shot it.

Pucker Time

2011-05-15T08:29:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I came about as close to crashing as I ever have on a bike. I was returning from a trip up to Eklutna Lake, trying to beat the rain home. Because of construction on the Glenn they constricted all traffic to one lane. There is plenty of warning and pylons to accomplish the merge. So there I was in a train of cars and trucks all traveling 65 mph in one lane, minding my business, mind probably drifting a bit, when all of a sudden traffic came to a stop.
I generally pride myself in watching ahead and anticipating traffic situations so I don't get surprised, however, the SUV in front of me was very dirty and I couldn't see through it's windows to the brake lights ahead of him. That, coupled with the fact we were just cresting a small hill and could not see over it for any distance, caused the sudden stop to catch me off guard. No excuses, I effed up.
The SUV in front of me went from 65 to 0 very quickly causing me to apply both brakes for all I was worth. In a panic stop from that speed, it's not unusual for a guy to skid the tires, which can be disastrous. When I felt the rear tire skid I let back off the rear brake and reapplied it. Again I felt the back tire skidding and slightly begin to drift to my left. I let off again before the tire drifted out enough to high side me. By this time it was obvious that I could not stop before rear ending the dude in front. I made a split second decision to run through the cones into the lane to mu right. Still breaking, I whipped it between the pylons and finally came to a stop in the cordoned off lane, a few feet in front of the SUV I had been following.
I sat there a few seconds trying to catch my breathe and take inventory on myself and my bike. Talk about a puckered up rear end!
Traffic started moving again and I nosed it back into the proper lane precisely where I had left it, behind that SUV. Further up, the highway opened back up to two and then three lanes for an incident free ride on home. It never did rain, just threatened to.
That close call reminds me why I generally always wear a helmet, it's a matter of when, not if you'll eventually wreck. Later.

FDX

2011-05-04T14:23:00.000-08:00

HD got my bike tuned and running great. I rode it down the inlet last weekend. My mileage is back to normal, and it has plenty of power. The stage 1 screaming eagle intake was the ticket!

Harley Davidson Super Glide

2011-04-10T08:19:00.001-08:00

It's gonna rain today, but yesterday we had some sun and I went on my first ride of the season. And what better way to start the season than with a new (to me) Harley Davidson Super Glide? My son and I stopped by a guy's house who had an ad running on Craig's list. He was selling his 2008 FXD Super Glide which had less than 2000 miles on it.

What a beautiful bike. He had a few bells a whistles on it, but it was still basically stock with Vance and Hines exhaust.

Next stop was the bank to properly document the deal. We both signed off and the funds were transferred. A half hour later I was on the first ride of the season, on my new Glide. Whoo hoo!

I plan on this being my daily rider, while the Road Glide is for touring.

Later

Four Hours of Hell

2011-03-27T17:50:00.001-08:00

The task? Upgrading those stock Harley speakers to something a little louder, speakers from Hogtunes.

The challenge? I've never taken apart my Road Glide Fairing.

The feat? It took me four hours to disassemble the windshield and fairing, replace the speakers, trade out the stock turn signals for Kurakyns, and reassemble it all.

The disassembly and replacement of parts took about an hour, but, reassembling it took me 3 damn hours. I fought that fairing until I was dirty, sweaty, and pissed. So I took a 15 minute break, cooled down and started again. Finally, my patience paid off.

I like the new sound as well as the new turn signal lights. And I learned alot about my bike. One thing's for sure, the fairing is not coming off again anytime soon. Hahaha

FW: Still Winter

2011-03-02T07:22:00.001-09:00

-original message-
Subject: Still Winter
From: "Bomsgym" <dlgbomber@yahoo.com>
Date: 03/02/2011 7:08 AM

It's still winter outside and the only hope for spring is the 5 minutes per day of daylight we are gaining. Meanwhile, I've added a couple mods to the glide. First was a lower profile windshield with a flared lip. Pics later. The second was a new light bar on the back that also is a third brake light. See pic.
Come on spring, I'm suffering from cabin fever!

18nth Annual Custom Cycle Show for 2011

2011-01-17T19:52:00.000-09:00

I was mistaken. Somewhere I thought I saw the cycle show was gonna be in January, which I thought was kinda strange. It's always been in March or April, at least in recent years.
Well, I googled it and found the current website for 2011, it's right here....
http://www.amcda.com/

Looks like it's April 9-10. I'll be there at least on one of the days, and am looking forward to it.
Later.

2011-01-07T18:43:00.001-09:00

100% tobacco free for one week. Let's see how long I can ride this pony!)Not by choice so much as doc's advice. Oh well, at least he didn't ban my whiskey. Hahaha.)Later.

Christmas Eve Wishes

2010-12-24T07:37:00.000-09:00

Merry Christmas to all, and Happy New Year!
Here's to miles and miles of riding and hopefully some decent sunshine this coming year.
I personally am going to attempt to earn an Iron Butt license plate frame for the hog in 2011. Probably in late June. I also have been required to moderate some of my habits. OK, if I have to I will, but one habit I won't back off on is bad mouthing our current President. More on him later.
Well another year that "peace on earth and goodwill towards men" seems out of reach. Chalk that up to the muslims. OK, I'll leave that alone too.
Happy Holidays everybody!
I'll blog some more next year!
Later

Gotta Love It

2010-12-17T08:02:00.000-09:00

You got to love Alaska to put up with the winters. It was -9 this morning, and I live in the warmer region of Alaska. Plenty of my friends and co-workers had -20 and colder this week.
One thing's for sure, when spring finally crawls back and cabin fever is at it's worst, we sure appreciate the sun.
I have one thing left to finish on my Christmas list. Not too bad this year, I still have 9 days to spare. Hahaha.
Later

Emailing: 017

2010-12-09T08:00:00.001-09:00

As we near the shortest day of the year (for daylight), and the temp
outside is about 5 degrees, I can't help but daydream about the first
day I brought my Road Glide home. It seems like only yesterday.
OK, well it was just last April. Hahaha.
After Christmas the countdown til spring commences! Can you say "cabin
fever"?
Later.

Other Blogs

2010-11-17T06:53:00.000-09:00

Today I'm gonna point out a couple of other motorcycle blogs that I frequent.
My blog is just a small hobby for me. I mostly write in the summer, during our riding season. So, in the winter it goes a little stale. Plus, since I have very limited computer expertise, my blog may appear to many as plain or simple, maybe even boring. That's ok with me, I don't feel the need to impress.
At any rate, there are a few other more advanced blogs that I like to read from time to time, you might like them too.
The first is "Bikes in the Fast Lane, Motorcycle News". It's author is a guy in France named Mike Werner. He does an exceptional job of providing the latest news on bikes, gadgets, and attire. His sight has advertising on it and enjoys huge traffic. It is a good daily read, as he updates it constantly.
The second site I'm recommending is called "Biker Law Blog, a Real Biker, a Real Lawyer". It's more of a traditional blog, but the guy spent money on software. It's like a blog on steroids. The author is Norman Gregory Fernandez, a real lawyer and biker from California. His blog is less commercial and more applicable to every day riders. He doesn't update it everyday, but a few times per week. He offers some interesting perspective and advise.
If I had better writing skills, my blog would be more like his.
So don't be alarmed because I don't update my blog very often, it's winter. In the meantime, check out those two for your daily fix on motorcycles.
Later

Bad Habits Pic of the Week!

2010-11-11T09:29:00.001-09:00

Hahaha!

Put to Bed for the Winter

2010-10-31T10:39:00.001-08:00

I had a great riding season, but it's over now.
Happy Halloween!

Garage Door

2010-10-12T08:26:00.000-08:00

They are coming to fix my garage door today. I tell you it's a real pain in the butt when your garage door is broke. Oh, I can open it if needed, but it weighs a freakin' ton.
Basically I use a shovel to pry it up a couple inches adn throw a two by four under it. Then, using both hands, I basically perform a dead lift and use the momentum of the door to throw it all the way up.
Well, today I should be able to just click the opener like normal. It kinda makes you appreciate it more.
Later

Pelosi the FREAK!

2010-10-09T08:02:00.000-08:00

Oh my effing God!!!!! Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House, Congresswoman from San Francisco just said at a news conference that the quickest way to stimulate jobs is to increase food stamp funding! What freakin' planet is she from??? I can't believe Californians keep sending her back to DC. The only people more fucking stupid than her are the voters in her district.
42 million Americans are on food stamps, that's ten million more today then when President Wonderful took office.And the Dem's only answer is to SPEND MORE MONEY.
Let's see, 9.6% unemployment means less tax revenue. So, let's tax higher to make up for the loss, AND let's spend tons more money. Hell, we'll just keep borrowing from China.
Ok, I'm better now. I had to vent before I had a freakin stroke.
Got back from a meeting yesterday around 4pm, clicked the garage opener and ....nothing. The door opened about an inch. So I clicked it back down. Then open again...again an inch. Clicked it back down.
Got out of the car and tried to assist it up when I clicked it...no luck.
So there I am, locked out of my house and no key. Tried to jimmy the back slider...not happening. Thought about kicking in the front door. Noooo, repairing the damage would probably cost more than calling a locksmith. OK, I called my daughter and she called me a locksmith.
He arrives and tries lifting the garage door while I activate it again. He gets it up about two feet. So I roll under the door and come back out the front door. $70 later I asked him to help me lift the door further. I disconnected the door from the opener and we both lifted it all the way open. He left and I examined the door. Turns out the spring that helps lift the door had busted. But my lesson is that I will now keep a spare key in the glove box of my car from now on!
Now, I kinda felt stupid about the ordeal, but then I saw Pelosi on tv. Hahahaha, I'm a fucking genius!
Later

End of Season

2010-10-08T22:17:00.000-08:00

Brother I'm saying the season is over.
The mountain tops are white and the morning temps are below freezing. Yet I still think there is a ride out there. I hope to run the highway south until I hit snow. The only variable is that I have a buyer stopping by at 10am to buy my V-Star. Cash talks, and bullshit walks, the way I see it. I'd love to sell it, except that i love that bike, and I hate to see it go.
Hopefully a guy named Bill will really buy it, but if not, I'll just store it, like usual.
We'll see, and I'm sure to let you know.
The roads are dry, and so am I, but still need another ride.

Later.

Wet Weather

2010-09-04T10:53:00.000-08:00

Another dark and wet weekend. I don't always mind riding in the rain, but come on! How about one sunny day on Labor Day weekend?

So, given the forecast is for 1/4 to 1/2 inch of rain today, I'll be turning my attention to the opening weekend of PAC-10 Football. Specifically Oregon State vs. TCU in their home state of Texas. Remember last year, TCU went undefeated in their regular season games, and are currently ranked 6th in the nation.
The Beav's are on the cusp of the top 25 and a win today should vault them inside the top 20.
Today is also the first time the Rogers brothers get a chance to play collegately in their home state. They both had fantastic high school careers there, but were not heavily recruited do to their size. The Beavs were then able to steal a couple of blue chips away from the likes of TCU, UT, and UO.
So, later today I'll be having an adult beverage and watching my beloved Beavers kick some Horned Frog butts! Go Beavs!

Lesson Learned

2010-08-27T11:54:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was a gorgeous day, sunny, warm, not even any wind. After setting the state record for the most consecutive days of measurable rainfall, I was itching to ride. So, about 3pm I was gonna bust out of the office and hit the highway. I was thinking that a nice ride to Palmer and back on the old highway was in order.
But before I was ready to go I got another phone call. Someone answering my ad on Craigslist for the V-Star. He asked questions and sounded pretty interested. He said he'd call for directions at 5 when he was off work. So there I was on the fence. Do I blow him off and go for the ride? I really would like to sell the bike, and thus far have only had 3 people interested enough to come look. Or, do I stay and wait for the call, and perhaps do a little cleaning on the bike in the meanwhile?
I did neither. I ended up leaving about 4pm on the Harley and rode south towards Girdwood. It may have been the nicest day of the year in Anchorage, and traffic was fairly light. I rode nonstop to the Girdwood turn off and then turned around at the Fish and Game office and headed home. It was a great ride along the inlet, ipod blasting, cruise control on, catching an occasional glimpse of surfacing beluga whales. The ride was only 60 miles and I wanted to go longer, but I want to sell that bike, so I got home a few minutes past 5.
I checked the phone and confirmed that no one had called. OK dude, I'm home, come take a look.
By 7pm it was quite clear he was not coming, and thus the lesson! When a day like that comes along you sometimes just have to say "eff it, I'm going riding".
Today it's back to rain outside, and I'm kicking myself for not running all the way to Seward or Soldotna and really getting a good ride in that day. Even an Oldbull can still learn a lesson.

Don't forget to vote today Alaska!

2010-08-24T06:32:00.001-08:00

Seward Ride

2010-08-22T09:46:00.000-08:00

I took a nice ride to Seward yesterday. It was sunny the whole way, although a bit cool. Traffic on the way there was very light and I was able to cruise about 70 mph almost the entire way. Coming home was a different story (as I expected) and it was bumper to bumper form Girdwood to Anchorage.
I tried to look up a friend who lives in Seward but could not locate the address he had emailed me.
Seward was hopping, there was some event that drew at least a thousand people to the fire station, plus the salmon derby was still in play. Add those to the usual traffic it draws for simply being a sunny day, and you have a very busy little town.
Finally back home, a good friend of mine arrived from working all summer at the Red Dog mine near Kotzebue, and naturally we had to wash off some of that mine dust with a few coldies.
I pretty much screwed off all day, so today I better get some chores done.
Later

Bringing It On Home

2010-08-19T12:51:00.004-08:00

Day 19 turned out to be the last day of my trip. We camped about 15 miles outside of Whitehorse and took advantage of the public shower room. We weren't in a big hurry to mount up, 'cause my partner in crime wanted to stop at the Harley shop again. We knew they don't open until 9AM, so we timed our departure accordingly.
We arrived in Whitehorse about a quarter of nine and stopped for gas. Then we proceeded to the Harley shop only to find them closed. It was Monday morning and the sign said closed Sundays and Mondays.
Oh well, we stopped at the Walmart and got some water and energy drinks, and even some snack bars, then we hit the road about 9:30 am.
I decided early on that I was joining the 700 mile club that day. From Whitehorse to Glennallen, Alaska (where my riding partner lives) is about 500 miles, a long day by most standards, however, I was determined to continue on to my home in Anchorage. That meant a full 720 mile day on the ole' hog.
We stopped to eat a couple times, plus the usual gas stops, but eventually I pulled up to my garage at ten minutes after midnight. Fourteen + hours, and 720 miles from when we started that morning. Yes, I am in the 700 mile club, and I do believe I can do the Iron Butt distance of 1000 miles in 24 hours. That attempt will have to wait until next summer. I'll round up a couple other buddies and attempt it in June when the daylight is long. Maybe for my birthday or something.
Well, that was my trip. There were a lot of smaller stories throughout the trip that I could (should) have written, but I'll come back to some of those later. Like when I suffer writer's block. Hahaha, Later.

2010-08-17T10:29:00.003-08:00

On day 16 we made it to Grande Prairie where we visited the local Harley shop. While there we both had our oil changed, then continued on our way.
We put some pretty good miles on that day and camped by some lake who's name I do not recall. Sucks to get old don't it! Haha.
Day 17 we got an early start and were trying to make Dawson Creek, which we did and grabbed a cheap hotel room. This is the start of the Alaska Highway and gave me that familiar taste of home. It was a fantastic trip, but the thought of sleeping in my own bed was really getting me motivated to ride hard.
From Dawson Creek we rode all the way to Whitehorse, something like 470 miles. It was also the day we passed the buffalo herd, and I almost hit a caribou (though I don't have a pic of it).
Did I say Whitehorse? Actually, we stopped about 15 miles short of it and camped at a RV campground.

Back North

2010-08-12T06:56:00.002-08:00

We had ridden through some pretty strong winds and apparently something blew into my eye. To compound the problem, I must have been rubbing my eye. At any rate, I woke up on Day 14 with my left eye extremely irritated and tearing. It was like a faucet and would not stop. Plus, my vision was blurred. I tried to ride, but after 15 miles I pulled over and told my buddy I could not continue like that.
We backtracked the fifteen miles to a Walmart on the main drag. They got me right in and examined the eye. The Doc said the debris was gone, but it looked like someone sand papered my cornea. He prescribed some eye drops which I picked up at their pharmacy.
The point is, we stayed another night in Kalispel. The next morning I was much improved and we headed for the border.
We made are way up through Bamph and Jasper and camped not too far from the famous Lake Louise.

2010-08-10T08:37:00.002-08:00

We entered the park from the southern entrance on day eleven. We spent the night at a campground. It rained that night and we all got wet. It was one of only two days of rain we experienced. We built a fire and stood around it in the rain for awhile, but finally went to bed. Our tents kept us dry and the next morning it was clear again.
Day 12 we road over the summit and exited the park at the east entrance. Then we rode around the lower end of the park and back to Kalispel. Although the rain was done the wind was not. That whole afternoon we road through winds I estimated to be about 35 to 40 mph, with even higher gusts.
We got a hotel in Kalispel and went to a laundromat.

Heat

2010-08-04T11:11:00.002-08:00

The next couple of days we spent traveling through 100 degree heat. Crossing Idaho and part of Montana on our way to Glacier National Park, we got a full dose of hot weather.
We camped at roadside spots that were not state or federal campgrounds, but merely spots where someone had camped before us. We would stop at rest areas and soak our t-shirts in a faucet or sprinkler and put it on dripping wet, but within 15 to 20 minutes of riding would be dry again.
My bike burned about a half qt of oil during this three day period, but not a drop the rest of my trip. Weird. I guess it was the heat.
Finally, we reached Glacier Nat. Park on day 10. This was probably my favorite part of the trip. Even though there were a lot of tourists, the park is beautiful and worth the trip from Alaska.

Gorge

2010-08-03T08:04:00.002-08:00

Day five we got to the Seattle area around 4pm. Not the best time to try and navigate through Seattle on I-5. The freeway was packed in all lanes and traffic was at a walking speed. Through some of it we were able to use the commuter lane, and that really helped. It still took more than an hour to get passed downtown Seattle and through that rush hour traffic. We grabbed a hotel about 30 miles south of Seattle.
Day 6 we rode down to Camas, Wa. and met up with our other to buddies for the remainder of the ride. We all then rode down the Wa. side of the Columbia River and ended up at Hermiston, Or. for the night. Weather was getting rather hot. Luckily, I had purchased a half helmet in Prince George and wore it instead of my full face helmet.
Later

More Pics from BC

2010-07-31T09:33:00.000-08:00

Prince George and Further

2010-07-31T09:22:00.003-08:00

Day four we rode to Prince George, where we stayed at a local rv campground. There is a Harley dealer there and my buddy's cruise control switch was acting up. So we spent about half a day in the shop visiting with two very lovely ladies, while they worked on his bike. I also chatted with a couple from Los Angeles who were riding to Alaska.
We finally hit the road and went as far as Hells Gate. We found a nice campground and set up camp. We were serenaded by a train about every half hour all night. Hahaha
Day five we crossed the border and rode to Seattle. Traffic there is a freakin' mess.
Later

2010-07-30T08:10:00.002-08:00

Day three, we started with a homestyle breakfast at Sally's, located at the corner where #37 connects with the Alcan. Great food and atmosphere.
We traveled down the Cassiar where the first 30-40 miles are rough and bumpy. Some places worse than others, but overall the worst road of the trip. Add to that the fact that the rain started around noon and never real let up the rest of the day.
We gassed at Dease Lake where I proceeded to drop my bike on it's side. I was simply turning around on some gravel and my boot slid right out from under me, and I couldn't stop it from going down. My buddy jumped off his bike and helped me lift it up.
We finally arrived at Bell South, wet, hungry, and tired.
We decided to hotel it and dry our gear out. Plus a nice meal at the restaraunt.
Day four we loaded up and headed for Kitwanga, Smithers, and finally Prince George.
Later

Last Room at Watson Lake

2010-07-28T07:03:00.003-08:00

We checked into a hotel in Watson Lake at around 8:30 at night (the last room they had). We asked the clerk what time the restaurant next door closed? He said at 9pm, so rather than going straight to our room, we hustled next door to get a meal. After finishing our meal, we returned to the hotel and found that someone else was already staying in our room. A woman who said they must have double booked the room and it happened all the time.
I finally found the clerk who was surprised anyone was in the room. Further investigation found that she was a shareholder of the local native corp who actually owned the hotel. He said shareholders have first right to any rooms and there was nothing he could do.
A maintenance man for the hotel suggested we could stay in one of the rooms he was renovating. It was suggested that they could refund half my money and we could roll out our sleeping bags on the mattresses. I accepted the space (as it was now about 10:30 pm) but insisted on a full refund. They finally agreed to a full refund and we hauled our camping gear into the torn up room. The next morning we were able to shower in another room two doors down, then packed up and headed down the Cassiar highway.
Later

Day 1 was July 1st

2010-07-26T15:11:00.001-08:00

Day 1, we left Glennallen about 9:30 am and stopped in Tok for lunch. There was construction near the Canadian border and we didn't ride very hard. We camped out the first night near Destruction Bay.
Day 2 we rode to Whitehorse and visited the local Harley shop. Later we rode on to Watson Lake, where we stayed at a hotel.
Later

Back Home

2010-07-20T16:28:00.001-08:00

The closer I got, the more I wanted to sleep in my bed rather than a sleeping bag. I rode from Whitehorse, YT to Anchorage and got in a little after midnight this morning.
It was a great road trip, and all I can say is I'm ready to go again!
I finished with over 6300 miles for the trip (over 700 yesterday) and my bike is over due for a 10,000 miles service.
Once I load my pics and get stuff organized (do laundry), I'll start recapping the whole trip.
Later

Ak Highway

2010-07-16T19:45:00.000-08:00

After getting our bikes serviced in Grand Prairie, Alberta we rode on
to Dawson Creek. Got my pic taken at mile 1 of the Alaska Highway,
which I'll post later. Should be home in a few days.

Sent from my iPod

Fwd: Glacier National Ride

2010-07-12T20:51:00.002-08:00

Sent from my iPod

Yesterday we rode into the park from the south end and camped in the rain. This morning the rain was gone and we rode to the summit and out the other side.
There were tons of people there, but we still had fun.
Now we are in Kalspel, Montana, but in the morning we ride north back into Canada. More later.
See ya

Sent from my iPod

Getting Warm

2010-07-07T06:25:00.001-08:00

day 7, Today is supposed to hit 90 degrees in western Washington. I bought a half helmet at Prince George and have already burnt my face.
Yesterday we came through Seattle near rush hour and realized why we live in Alaska. I swear if you commute through that nightmare on two wheels everyday, you are a statistic waiting to happen. Later.

tacoma

2010-07-06T21:58:00.001-08:00

we camped out near Hell's Gate in BC last nite. Tonight in Tacoma, Wa., at a hotel. We need a shower and meet up with two other riders tomorrow. From there, we still don't know where we are heading. It's a total last minute detail. Later.

2010-07-04T20:08:00.001-08:00

July 4. We were rain soaked all day yesterday, so we didn't make alot of miles. Made up for it a little today logging about 450 miles. Currently camped at a campground near Prince George, BC. Tomorrow, we head south down 97, after checking out the local Harley shop when they open. Later.

2010-07-01T12:27:00.001-08:00

Stopped in Tok for lunch. Only 90 miles from Canada where I lose cell coverage. Later

On The Road

2010-06-30T07:02:00.000-08:00

I'm taking off today for three weeks of touring. I'll try to post an occasional update, but I'll have plenty of pics when I get back.
So wish me no breakdowns or wrecks, and see you later!

Trial Camp Out

2010-06-21T14:46:00.000-08:00

We camped close to home at the Kings Mt campground last weekend to test out our motorcycle camping gear. It worked out well, and we beat the rain home. I had a happy Father's Day!

Long ride

2010-05-30T17:25:00.000-08:00

I took the HD on my longest ride so far this year. I rode to Glennallen and back, about 370 miles, and yes, my ass is feeling it. My back, however, feels fine, and the cruise control is great.

Non Yeilding Mama Moose

2010-05-20T07:43:00.001-08:00

I came upon this mama and offspring this morning on my walk. I waited awhile, but she refused to yield the path, so I turned around and headed home. Oh well, you gotta love Alaska.

Harley Davidson

2010-05-17T09:04:00.001-08:00

It was a three hour ride to get her home, one hour of rain and 37 degree temperatures over the pass, but it was fun. And I got 42 miles per gallon cruising about 70 the whole way.
It's a 2006 Road Glide, and she is sweeeet!
RL

2010-05-14T20:27:00.000-08:00

I'm a harley owner. My new (to me) 2006 Harley Davidson Road Glide. It's a sweet ride! Now, what to name her? I'm thinking Candy. Later.

Thursday, May 6, 2010

2010-05-06T14:21:00.003-08:00

Well, thus far I've made several shorter trips on the bike, post office, meetings, even down to Girdwood and back, but yesterday I got a decent ride in of over 100 miles.
I met up with a friend who rides a Harley and we took off in the late afternoon for a run out to Palmer via the old highway.
The temp outside was in the mid fifties and quite comfortable. We got rained on a few times, but they were mostly short showers of a mile or two, then we'd ride out of them.
The only suck part of the trip was running into rush hour traffic the last few miles to my house. Downtown and C st. were absolutely jam packed.
But overall, it was a fun after work ride to get the old riding uscles back in shape.
Later

2010-04-26T08:15:00.001-08:00

A big ole moose on the tracks where our trail goes under. This morning on my walk.

2010-04-18T08:58:00.000-08:00

Winter is dragging it's heels. This is from my morning walk.

Motorcycle Show a Bust

2010-04-04T08:17:00.002-08:00

The last two weeks I waited with huge anticipation for our annual motorcycle show. I'm sure it's not that big of deal compared to other cities with more people, but it's ours and it signals the end of winter. When the snow is melting and the sun is out, it sure doesn't take much to get Anchorage residents out of the house. Each year that becomes more and more evident.
I've attended 5 of the last 6 annual shows, and I'm sorry to say it gets a little worse each year. They used to hold it at he Egan Center downtown. For some reason you can almost justify 8 bucks at the door when you are entering the Egan Center, but it's a hard nut to swallow when you hand over 8 bucks at the door of the Ben Boecke hockey rinks. It's like the difference between attending a State Fair verses a County Fair in other states.
The number of booths hocking their wares is also dwindling. There was a booth selling helmets and jackets, and a booth selling flags, but that was all. You had your usual booths like the AMA, Abate, Christian riders, and a credit union, but beyond that....slim pickens.
Finally, the dealer's booths....again, Sliiiiiiiiiiim pickens.
Honda had their new VFR700 mid level tourer, Can Am had some of their new model Spyders, and Victory had some new Touring models as well, but that was pretty much it. I was very disappointed with Harley Davidson who had a few high end new models on display, but again, very slim inventory. And one would think that Harley could sell a lot of accessories at a show like that, but they didn't even have any. Weird.
I specifically wanted to see the Honda VFR1200 which has been in all my mc magazines of late, but none were found. I also would have enjoyed checking out the '10 Kawasaki Concourse 1300, but again...nothing.
I don't know the logistics, maybe Alaska hasn't received the newest and latest models yet? If that is the case, maybe they should push this show a few weeks later? They definitely need more participation from vendors, like maybe Alaska Leather, or the GPS store, or even the service depts. of the various dealers with aftermarket accessories for the asst. bikes.
The other thing they should offer to spice things up and perhaps enhance sales is a demo ride for various bikes. I mean they have that whole parking lot around the two arenas, mark out a course and have demo rides! People would line up all day for that. And what about a short technical course that riders could enter and ride their own bikes for a chance at some prize? You know, manage a tight, technical course in a certain time, etc...
I just don't think the organizers really have their heart in this thing anymore, and it shows. It's too bad.
Later

Finally!

2010-03-31T11:22:00.002-08:00

I got both bikes out yesterday afternoon. Nothing long, just a quick 10 or 12 miles on each to check everything out. Made some minor clutch adjustments and aired up the tires, everything else was good. If the sun stays out today I think I'll wash them after work.
I also tried out the heated gloves I bought awhile back, and boy are they nice! Your whole body feels warm when your hands are. A very nice accessory to have.
The annual motorcycle show is Saturday, so I can now say that the riding season has begun!
Later

2010-03-30T15:19:00.001-08:00

After 20-some years of driving trucks, I've gone back to cars. Sold the truck last week and now have a little 325xi. It's an '07, but has low miles and drives like new. And it's alot faster than my truck thus satisfying my need for speed! Hahaha.

Motorcycle Sighting!

2010-03-26T09:37:00.000-08:00

We had a sunny and warm day here in Anchorage yesterday, it got to about 40 degrees.

So I'm in the next door neighbor's garage watching him repair his water heater and enjoying a few adult beverages, when up the street comes the season's first motorcyle, at least the first for me.

It happened to be a neighbor gal from up the street. I've met her and seen her ride, but for the life of me can't remember her name. She is fairly young (about 19) and never wears a helmet, which kinda bothers me. A very pretty and bright young gal that I sure hope never wrecks that honda 600 she rides. I've said it before and will say it again, I'm staunchly opposed to helmet laws but not helmets.

So she was the first one in our neighborhood to bust out a bike, then her dad rode it down to the garage (where I was) and stopped and visited for a few minutes. I told him I was pretty anxious to join him with my bike, but it would violate a strict rule of mine about riding after having a few drinks....I never do. It's not because of the public's poor view on it, nor because of any laws prohibiting it, no, I just don't want to wreck! Hello!

I will predict that I'm riding my bike by late next week. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Later

2010-03-18T08:21:00.002-08:00

Holy smokes, I didn't realize I'd been neglecting my blog. Oh well, there hasn't been alot of MC news up here.
The forecast is for temps approaching 40 degrees today. WooHoo! And, since the time change, we now have over 12 hours per day of daylight. The fact we are still gaining over 4 mins per day means it won't be long until the streets and yards are finally free of snow.
There was a sale and open house the other day at Alaska Leather. The owner Barb had manufacture reps on hand and a nice spread of munchies. I attended and ended up buying some heated gloves. Then last night I installed the power supply on my FJR. I haven't tested them out yet, but can't wait to do so. Sometimes there is great riding in March and April, but the hands are always the first to freeze. I'll keep you posted on my satisfaction.
I know the annual MC show is drawing near, but I'm not sure of the date.
Been watching Craigslist in the event someone posts a bike that I just can't pass up.
OK, Later

Driver Faces Homicide Charge (ADN story)

2010-03-10T09:34:00.001-09:00

VALDEZ -- A Valdez man has been indicted on a charge of criminally negligent homicide in the death of a motorcyclist last summer, according to court records......(more)

Motorcycling Only

2010-02-23T06:30:00.002-09:00

Ok, I've decided to keep this blog all about motorcycles, touring, experiences on the road and gadgets. No more politics. Some of you are not interested in my political rhetoric, I get it. I won't call you any liberal names, or accuse you of being idiots, rather, I submit that difference of opinions is what keeps this nation strong.
And I can surely separate political debate from the fun of the open road. Therefore, I started another page at RussLindsay.net where I focus primarily on politics and current events. That way I can keep my rants and anti-Obama blogs away from my fun blog (this one) about motorcycling in Alaska. Plus, this is where I'll be reporting details of our pending trip down the Alcan to Portland, Oregon this summer.
So this blog will be a political free zone (as long as I can resist) and be hobby/fun oriented only!
Later

Strange Weather

2010-02-20T10:13:00.002-09:00

I just got back from a road trip to Fairbanks. I left Thursday morn and arrived back home Friday night. Of course I drove my Silverado, not a bike, it's only February! I should have ran into below zero temperatures and lot's of snow but didn't. In fact, I actually had a reading of 52 degrees just outside of North Pole. There was very little snow fall and the highways were sometimes clear and dry (except where snow and ice had melted). It mad for a pleasant drive (over 800 miles roundtrip), but that is some pretty strange weather. I literally could have rode a motorcycle from Gakona to Anchorage, I was very surprised.
Now the question is whether this is early spring break up, or is it a tease? Are we in for more severe weather in the weeks to come.
I have a feeling the severe weather is behind us. Although we may still get some big dumps of snow, the super cold temps are done.
Not long ago there was measurable snow fall on the same day in 49 States (excluding Hawaii), which may have been a first. At the least it's extremely rare.
Strange weather, but I hope that doesn't mean a rainy summer!
Later

Ready to Rumble

2010-02-07T12:07:00.001-09:00

The sisters.

2010-02-06T17:17:00.000-09:00

You Heard of Homesick? I'm Summer Sick

2010-01-24T17:41:00.006-09:00

Just dreaming about when the winter is finally over. Looking at a few pics from last summer. I can't complain much though, this winter has been pretty mild so far.
Next summer's Alcan Highway ride is coming together. I'm riding all the way to Portland and back. That is if my bod can hold up.
Meanwhile, here's a couple more pics from last summer's Canada ride. They get my juices flowing for more.
Later.

My Daughter Defends My Right to Rant

2010-01-12T18:15:00.002-09:00

That's her with Senator Ted Stevens (Alaska). I usually keep it light and talk motorcycles, but once in awhile I have more to say.
I will continue to slam this President and the liberal leaders in Congress for destroying the American way of life and trying to turn us into Europe.
If his political agenda succeeds, Obama will raise the taxes on EVERY American family in the nation, a direct contradiction to his campaign promises.I hope you Obama voters are happy.
If you disagree, feel free to comment. If you are tired of my rants, unfriend me or block me, I will not be offended. If you don't have an opinion, you too are part of the problem.
This week my baby daughter will be deploying to the Middle East to protect my right to rant and your right to disagree. This is still America (for now).
If anything happens to her I will hold this President personally responsible. This man promised to end the war and bring troops home. And you all voted for him. Now my daughter and 30,000 more soldiers are heading over there. Another freakin' lie. HOW' THAT FOR CHANGE???
She'd still be going if the other guy was President, I don't deny it. But the other guy didn't promise to bring them all home. In fact he said it would take years to.
She is my second daughter to serve and I'm very proud of them both.
So, if you are unemployed, uninsured, and plan on staying that way...he is a great President.
But if you are a working stiff just trying to get ahead and provide a better life for your loved ones...he is a fucking nightmare.
Continuing the war he campaigned against; raising taxes higher than any President before him; highest unemployment numbers in 30 years with no clue of how to fix it; financial payoff to the guys that helped elect him, but call it "stimulus"; apologize to the other nations for what a bad country we are; more world travel in the first year than the previous 4 Presidents combined; and allowing us to go soft on National security. I could keep going, but you get the jist.
I have to throw in one more...appointing Hillary 'effing' Clinton to Secretary of State!! Stupidity!

Be alert and safe Baby, I love and miss you! This summer when you get back, we'll have a heck of a party (but no rap). I hear it's really hot over there, but it's a dry heat. Hahaha

New Year, New Ride Plans

2010-01-06T08:20:00.002-09:00

Have bike will travel! Haha, but not until spring. My New Year's resolution is to put more miles on the two bikes than any other year. Well, tha's gonna be easy this summer. I'm taking both bikes down the Alcan Highway to the northwest and back to Anchorage. I'm riding one and my daughter is riding the other. That will be a minimum 5k miles on each bike.
Plus, I'm riding with a group of Harley riders for a week in between the north and south runs. That will be another 1500 or so on the FJR. My ass will be rubber by the time I'm finished.
I've never taken a 3 week vacation before in my working life, so I'm really looking forward to it.
The ride with the fellers in between the north/south trip will go east from Portland up to Glacier National Park and back. We may even drive through the corner of Yellowstone Park. We are still planning the actual route. these guys have ridden together before, I'm the new guy to the group.
If I manage to not piss them off, it may become an annual thing.
At any rate, planning the ride is fun, but looking out the window at snow is depressing. Currently we are gaining a couple minutes a day of daylight, so we are definitely heading in the right direction. That's a pic of my FJR loaded for my Whitehorse trip last summer.
Whoo hoo, come on summer!
Later.

My Christmas gift to myself

2009-12-23T20:01:00.002-09:00

Two Scottish Thistles wrapped around a dagger.

Merry Christmas Fellow Bikers

2009-12-23T19:48:00.003-09:00

I never made it to the House of Harley last weekend. I went to the airport to pick up my daughter and her Ak Air flight was 40 mins late. Then we waited 'til the bitter end for her bag but it never came down the shoot. As a matter of fact, it didn't make the flight.
So, by the time she waited in line at luggage and we finally left, there wasn't much Harley promotion time left, so we went straight home.
The next day in the morning newspaper, I saw who they crowned as Miss Harley Alaska, and I gotta tell ya, I don't think I missed much.
Probably just as well, I need a new Harley like a hole in my head.
Besides, in the winter I'drather spend it on a new tatt.
My daughter and I just returned from the parlor with new ink.
Merry Christmas everybody, and Happy New Year!!

Christmas Sale

2009-12-17T19:51:00.007-09:00

Big Christmas Sale at the House of Harley this Saturday. What a winter tease. I mean we have about 9 inches of snow on the ground outside, so anyone who buys a bike can't even ride it home. Hahaha, like the song says "should I stay or should I go now?"
I think I might mosey on down there just to look around.
Now I know they got some nice Road Glides for sale, but I'm really more fond of the Road King. And sometimes I think it might be worth it to go all out and get the Electra Glide. Any other time, if they had a nice one on hand I might go for it, but with this fool President we have I'm just trying to save my money. The local Alaska economy has yet to see the worst of times.
I think I'll just stick with the two sisters I already have.
Some guys have boats, 4-wheelers, snow machines, etc... Not me, I just have two bikes, and one of these days I'll have a third. With any luck it will be a Harley. I don't plan or think that it will be this Saturday, but you just never know. Hahaha.
Ultimately, I'd kinda like a seriously fast crotch rocket for rodding around on. Something like a Hayabusa, or an R1. You know, one of the fastest styles of bikes. At that point I'd probably sell the V-Star. How much fun would that be? The Crotch rocket for Saturday night rodding, the FJR for day in and day out use, and a Harley bagger for longer trips and camping.
Hey, tis the season for dreamin', but I don't think Santa could pull it off.
Well, short of a Harley just give me peace on earth and goodwill towards MEN, and I'll be happy.
Later.

Under the Guise

2009-12-05T12:39:00.003-09:00

Under the guise of change, Obama fooled all liberals into electing him.

Under the guise of stimulus, Obama paid off his campaign supporters.

Under the guise of insuring the uninsured, Obama is ruining everyone else s health care.

Under the guise of ending the war, Obama is sending 30,000 more troops.

Under the guise of saving the earth, Obama will impose the highest tax on Americans in the history of our nation.

Under the guise of a vacation, I may keep riding and not come back.

Winter Blues

2009-11-20T13:21:00.001-09:00

During a quick trip to Portland this week, I was envious of all the motorcyclists I saw still riding around in mid-November. I seemed to have forgotten that you can almost ride year around in the northwest. Meanwhile, back home in Anchorage the daytime high was about 8 degrees. Burrrr.
Then I started wondering if I would be such an avid rider if I could ride year around, or is the short Alaska riding season the thing that fuels my enthusiasm?
It's true that when you have just a few short months to ride, you almost go crazy waiting for that first spring ride each year. But I also think that if I could ride year around, I'd be just as excited about it as I am now.
Who knows?
Every few weeks I fire up the bikes and let them run well into normal operating temperature while staring out the door at the snow. This next summer I am riding down the Alcan all the way to Portland. It's in stone. But it's not enough to cure my itch right now, I don't know what could (besides and unusually warm weekend in Dec where the temps hit 40).
And it looks like I'll be riding with a new bunch of guys who refer to themselves as the 'Piss Hogs'. It should be fun, and I'm really looking forward to it, especially if my daughter rides along as well.
Enough babble for now, until next time.
Later.

Give Me a Break!

2009-11-08T08:10:00.000-09:00

No cycle talk this time...I'm pissed.
From the Senate, Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada issued a statement saying, "We realize the strong will for reform that exists, and we are energized that we stand closer than ever to reforming our broken health insurance system."
What rock is he living under?
After promising the moon to some and strong-arming others (in their own party), the House Dems barely eeked out enough votes for passage of the single worst bill in the history of our nation. The vote was 220-215, does that sound like a "strong will for reform"?
I am disgusted by their actions, specifically Nancy Pelosi. I mean you freakin' idiots in California, how can you keep voting her in? Oh yeah, San Francisco, say no more.
The so called 1.2 trillion dollar price tag will explode 4 times that I promise you.
Forcing all Americans to get health care or pay fines?? I thought this was a free country?
Cutting billions from Medicare, the very program that most seniors rely on?
These are just a few of the bad parts of this bill. This administration will forever ruin this great country, if it succeeds in its social agenda.
All the young people who voted for Obama for "change", or because they thought it was "time" for a president of color, you are the very people who will pay out your arse for the rest of your lives. You should really vote on issues, not emotions.
Next up....cap and trade. Oh yeah, they might as well double the utility bills for EVERY American family!
Give me a break.

Where's the Snow?

2009-11-02T07:42:00.004-09:00

I've been quiet lately, a little under the weather. Feeling much better now and ready to chat.
Where is the snow? Halloween came and went, and usually we have some white stuff. Last year it snowed on Oct. 6, but the annual average first snow is Oct. 23. Not that I'm complaining, I don't care if it waits until December to snow. It's just weird how Denver got 3 feet the other day and we are still bare.
Glancing through the local craigslist the other day, I saw this little gem. An '08 Electraglide for sale here locally. Damn I'd love to own one like this, except for the color. I mean, white kinda sucks.

Besides, I'm still paying off my FJR. Look at that thing though, it's like the Cadillac of touring machines. The only advantages my FJR has over the
Harley is it's faster, lighter, gets better mileage, and
costs far less. Otherwise, the Harley is the touring
King.
Just got me a book on motorcycle elecrical systems,
so I can learn how to properly add some electronics
to my bike. A fuzz buster for sure, and maybe some
additional lighting.
I fired up both bikes yesterday and ran them to
operating temp. Didn't ride though, haven't got
my Doc's medical ok yet.
I have more, but it can wait.
Later

Junk For Sale

2009-10-08T19:41:00.002-08:00

As many of you do, I habitually view the motorcycles list on Craigslist. Always hoping to come across that gem that has my name written all over it. I bought my FJR from a Craigslist posting. It is an excellent bike that I am really happy with.
But lately, I can't believe all the junk people are trying to unload on the Alaska Craigslist. I realize that the snow will be falling any day, but geesh!
In mid September I actually posted my V-Star on there to see if I'd stir any interest, but I don't consider it as junk. Some folks might, but I don't
It's really not even the bikes themselves, rather the inflated prices people are posting. I mean come on! I've seen the same guy repeatedly post a '82 Yamaha Maxim for 1500 bucks for over a month. Doesn't say how many miles it has or if it's even licensed. There are many other examples I won't bore you with.
I guess the message is buyer beware! Me, I'll wait 'til spring before I get too serious about any prospects.
Later

New Hog

2009-09-25T08:21:00.002-08:00

A friend of mine just purchased an '04 Electricglide Classic a couple days ago, so yesterday I stopped by to have a look. Beautiful is the word that comes to mind. The previous owner not only took very good care of this bike, he also spent a butt load of $'s on accessories.
It's painted a two tone blue and has tons of after market chrome from head to toe. The most impressive additions are the lights. This bike has so many add-on lights that it almost seems like a freightliner cruising down the road. Both fenders, both passenger floor boards, and the entire saddlebag wrap around all light up. And don't forget the Screaming Eagle pipes that sound tougher than hell when you goose the throttle. Someone has truly invested well over 23k or 24k on this bike, but it was done very tastefully. It doesn't come across as gawdy or over done. My buddy got a primo price on it to boot.
Checking this thing out really got my juices flowing. Damn, I'd love to own a similar bike, but not this year. The soonest I'd even consider one is next spring. Being as conservative as I am, I have to wait and see what Alaska's economic climate is in 2010 before I'd ever pull the trigger. Typically, we run several months or more behind the national trends. So our worst may still be in front of us. That being said, I'm content for now just having the Yamaha sisters. But I know one day I'll actually own and ride a Harley, meanwhile I'll just remain patient.
Congrats to my buddy on his new addition. His big challenge now is to convince his wife to let him keep his Sportster as well! Hahaha, good luck with that. This time I certainly can't use my usual saying "it sucks to be you"!
Later.

Leaves are Falling

2009-09-17T06:18:00.002-08:00

The sun was out yesterday so I decided to take a casual ride after work. Just a run down the inlet, my normal route for a mid-week ride.
The trees and shrubs are all turning fall colors, and my yard is starting to fill up with leaves. And as the leaves fall and clutter the streets, it serves as fair warning, at least in my neighborhood, to be on alert at even the most casual corners. Those harmless looking leaves on the pavement can wash you and your bike right through a corner and dump you on your arse. The main streets stay pretty clear, but the slower side streets can surprise you.
Anyway, as I rode south down the inlet, the temp fell from 63 degrees at my house to 57 degrees as I approached Indian. The further south I rode, the more the wind kicked up and the temp fell. Soon after I passed Beluga Point, the rain started falling. This was not what I intended for a casual after work ride.
So, I spun around and headed back before I got very wet. Heading back into Anchorage the temp rose back up and the winds died down. So I road the long way home, running up the east side of town before cutting back over to my house in midtown.
Only about forty miles, but better than nothing.
Then I watched a show on the tube about the new models Harley is putting out for 2010. I sure would like a Road King or a Road Glide, but damn...both my bikes together didn't cost me what a new HD would. How can they get those prices?
And don't suggest a used one, up here in Alaska everyone thinks their bike never depreciates. Hahaha
Oh well, the leaves keep falling, no reason to get a new bike and park it in the garage for 7 months.
Later

2009-09-14T14:02:00.001-08:00

Rainy and dreary out last weekend, so the only seat time I got was in the tattoo chair.

Biker Joke

2009-09-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

I don't usually post jokes, but this one has a Harley in it......enjoy.

HER DIARY ENTRY:

Tonight, I thought my husband was acting weird. We had made plans

to meet at a bar to have a drink. I was shopping with my friends all day

long, so I thought he was upset at the fact that I was a bit late, but he

made no comment on it. Conversation wasn't flowing, so I suggested

that we go somewhere quiet so we could talk.. He agreed, but he didn't

say much. I asked him what was wrong; He said, 'Nothing.' I asked him

if it was my fault that he was upset.. He said he wasn't upset, that it had

nothing to do with me, and not to worry about it.

On the way home, I told him that I loved him. He smiled slightly, and

kept driving. I can't explain his behavior I don't know why he didn't say,

'I love you, too.' When we got home, I felt as if I had lost him completely,

as if he wanted nothing to do with me anymore. He just sat there quietly,

and watched TV.

He continued to seem distant and absent. Finally, with silence all

around us, I decided to go to bed. About 15 minutes later, he came

to bed. To my surprise, he responded to my caress, and we made

love. But I still felt that he was distracted, and his thoughts were

somewhere else. He fell asleep - I cried. I don't know what to do.

I'm almost sure that his thoughts are with someone else. My life is a disaster!

HIS DIARY ENTRY:

Harley wouldn't start today, can't figure it out, but at least I got laid..

End of Summer

2009-09-08T06:20:00.002-08:00

What a nice ending to a pretty great summer! Labor Day weekend was in the low 60's and basked in the sun. But, now that Labor Day is past, the fair is over, and school is in session, I guess summer is officially over.
Sunday I took a ride on my V-Star up to Talkeetna, Ak., back down through Big Lake, Ak., then back home to Anchorage. It was about 220 miles and four hours of riding. When I started around 10:45 am, traffic was still pretty light. As the day progressed I could literally watch the highways fatten up with vehicles. By the time I mad it home around 3 pm, I was happy to be off the streets and out of the holiday traffic.
I only took a couple of pics that maybe I'll post later, after I see if they came out right. The bike ran well and I had no issues. Just a nice long ride on what may be one of our last warm weekends for the year.
I'm sure I'll be riding some all the way into October, but I'll have to start wearing my heated vest prett soon. I just hope we get as good a summer next year as we have had this year! I'm still planning on running the Alcan all the way to Oregon and back next summer, starting around my B-Day in late June and finishing around the 10nth of July. That seems to be the sweet spot for weather at this end at least.
My Air Force daughter visits me tomorrow for a few days! Yeah!
Later

Dems Are Lost

2009-09-03T11:38:00.001-08:00

12th straight month of declining sales for retailers. Hurray for Obama's stimulus plan! (or should I say election reimbursement plan?)

Her First Ride

2009-08-25T22:26:00.001-08:00

My daughter finished her AMA mortorcycle class and got her motorcycle endorsement. So, while she is here visiting we took advantage of the sunshine last Saturday and went on a ride to Girdwood and back.
I let her ride my V-Star, while I rode the FJR1300. We started by riding around the neighborhood a few times so she could get the feel of the weight, the brakes, and the clutch.
We then took a short 10 mile ride around town and got the bikes up to highway speed.
Upon returning home she told ne that her windbreaker was a poor choice of attire 'cause it flaps too much at speed. So after she changed into a better jacket I asked her if she was ready for the longer ride to Girdwood. She said she was, so we headed out.
She did really well and kept up with me at highway speeds. I had warned her about the heavy traffic on that highway, but it wasn't as bad as I had expected. We were only gone about an hour and a half, but it was the perfect length and conditions for her first ride.
She leaves his week, so I don't know if we'll get out again on this visit, but I got a feeling we'll ride again probably next summer..
Later

Mopping Up

2009-08-18T14:28:00.004-08:00

Just a few more pics from my Canada trip. I'm already planning to run the Alcan all the way to Portland next summer.

Wildfire smoke up ahead. Tok Cutoff between Tok and Glennallen.

Lot's of smoke.

Glenn Highway heading home.

Stop and stretch just this side of Caribou Creek.

About 2000 miles in 5 days. It was interesting and fun. I learned that next year I need to be in better physical shape to run the whole thing both south and north.
Later

A Few More

2009-08-18T06:55:00.005-08:00

A few more from my Canada trip.
Leaving Canada I rode through about 150 miles of pouring rain.
How'd I snap this one?

Waiting for road construction near Haines Junction.

A cry for a safer highway

2009-08-09T21:14:00.001-08:00

The following adn.com article was sent by:

RL (rlindsay@omnialaska.com)

And RL had this to say:

Check out this story from the Anchorage daily Newspaper.

---------------------------------------------------------------

A cry for a safer highway

By JAMES HALPIN<br />jhalpin@adn.com

Published: 08/08/09 13:01:10

The stretch of Seward Highway from Potter Marsh to just south of Girdwood has killed 98 people since 1977.

Passing lanes have been added, troopers' presence has increased and the stretch was named a safety corridor in 2006. But still the death toll rises, including a rash of deaths this summer.

That fact was a central topic at the Girdwood Community Center on Friday night, where fire chief William Chadwick called a meeting to discuss the mounting body count on the scenic byway this summer and how to stop it. There was no shortage of ideas.

You can read the full story online at:

http://www.adn.com/kenai/story/890055.html?story_link=email_msg

---------------------------------------------------------------
This article is protected by copyright and should not be
printed or distributed for anything except personal use.
For information on reprinting this article or placing it
on your Web site, please contact the Daily News marketing
department at (907) 257-4429 or marketing@adn.com.

Enemy #1

2009-08-03T05:42:00.003-08:00

I guess I'm partly lucky and partly a damn alert rider. I like to think it's more alertness than luck, but who knows. I haven't wrecked a car or truck in about 30 years. In fact, the last vehicle I wrecked was my old 1981 Yamaha Seca, and that was in '84. And it was a solo accident, I laid it down while scraping pegs around a corner. At any rate, back then there were no cell phones. And that is what I call the motorcyclist's Enemy #1.
I see them all the time, idiot drivers who even without their phones are average drivers at best. Toss in a cell phone and a drive up mocha and you have a recipe for disaster.
I used to say it was always a woman at fault, but I honestly believe it is 70% men who yack on their cells while driving.
So on Saturday, while riding Rosie through town trying to get to the freeway heading north, I had a close call. I was driving through an intersection in the left lane since the cars in the right lane were backed up waiting to turn right. Cruising along at about 35mph I noticed a pickup in the intersection signaling to turn left (across my lane). I was almost right on him (middle of the intersection) and was trying to make eye contact so I could be sure he saw me. His eyes told me he was looking beyond me trying to pick a hole to turn through. But, did he see me? I don't know, how could he not? It was a beautiful day and Rosie has twin head lamps. Could it be the cell phone the idiot had jammed in his ear diverted his attention? Maybe the moron isn't as good at driving with one hand as he thought.
Well, he started to turn right (cuss words!) in front of me! Then the dumb ass finally saw me and hit the brakes leaving about a quarter of his rig encroached into my lane.
Needless to say I had already reacted by swerving into the right lane, missing his rig by just a few feet.
For the next few miles, all I could think about was turning around, finding that guy, and shoving that phone up his ass. But, finally cooled down and actually had a very enjoyable ride after that.
That is now my mantra, cell phones are Enemy #1 to motorcyclists! Besides, no one can read my texts, my gloves are too thick.
Later

A Couple More From Canada

2009-07-24T19:53:00.003-08:00

Destruction Bay along the Alaska highway.

The Yukon River at Whitehorse.

Canada Ride Pics

2009-07-23T08:21:00.003-08:00

Check out the bugs on my visor, and a shot of 'Millionaire Falls'.

More Later

Back Home

2009-07-19T15:12:00.002-08:00

What a fun trip, however I came back a day early.
Where did I leave off? I had ridden to Haines, Alaska and once again had to go through customs. No biggy, except for the passport, it's easier than airport security.
Rode back to Beaver Creek, YT on Tuesday. I'd say it was about 330 miles or so. Picked a Hotel called Ida's. Like maybe a local owned it? Nope, it was some guys from India. Clean and comfortable, but there was an odd feeling I had while there. Can't put my finger on it, but I was very cautious.
Wednesday morning I was bounced out of bed a 5:39 am to the guy above me cranking Pink Floyd. There were a few construction workers staying there. Well, since I was up, I packed my shit and hit the road. It was raining off and on and the temp was in the low 50's.
After going through the security gate the weather started to unleash. It started pouring rain, and the winds really picked up. It made fore miserable riding conditions and poor visibility. I did the 120 mile or so to Tok and stopped at the restaurant to eat and dry out somewhat.
It doesn't matter how well you prepare, in that wind and rain, for that many miles, you will get wet. And I did too. I finished my meal and hit the road. The next leg was about 140. I continued on in the storm for about 50 more miles until it finally settled down.
Well, I finally got to the junction where I had to commit one way or the other. If I stayed on the Richardson Highway I'd be in Valdez in two hours, but turning right onto the Glenn Highway would put me home in 3 hours. I thought about it for two seconds and turned right. Let's face it, I'm tired and soaked, might as well head home.
So by coming home a day early, I only got 1775 miles for the trip. That kinda bugged me since I was thinking about 2k miles. I rested a day at home and on Friday decided to ride to Seward, Alaska for just a day trip. Weather was overcast and cool, but it never rained on me. That trip put me over 2k miles for the week. Allin all it was a great trip, and I'll have pictures back soon.
I did learn that I need to be a little more fit before doing it again. I'm still kinda sore.
Later

On To Haines

2009-07-13T21:18:00.001-08:00

Day 3 I planned on spending the day in Whitehorse when I got up this morning, but the weather begged me to ride. The rain that came through the night before had blown over and to the north. By nine AM the temp was 60 degrees and I couldn't sit still. I was on the road by ten and heading for Haines.
Boy am I glad I did! The 160 mile leg from Haines Junction to Haines, Alaska was by far the best of the trip! Maybe the best ride since I started riding again in '05.
I'll describe it later when I'm not typing on an Ipod.
Tuesday I'm heading back to Beaver Creek, Wed to Valdez, and Thurs back to Anchorage.
So far it's been a blast!
Later

Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail®. See how.

Staying Put

2009-07-13T06:50:00.001-08:00

Day 3 I've decided to spend a day in Whitehorse and hit the road on Tuesday instead. I want to have a look around town, plus give my body a day to recuperate. Yeah, I'm a little sore. I could ride today if I had to, but that's the point... I don't have to.
Plus, there is a tour of the local brewery today at 2!
Later

Beaver Creek

2009-07-12T17:14:00.001-08:00

Day 1 took me from Anchorage to Beaver Creek, Yukon Territory, about 440 miles. The 3 things that welcomed me to Canada were 20 miles of gravel highway, no cell coverage, and no Internet. I just wanted to text or email my kids to tell them all was good, but the only contact would have been a pay phone. No thanks.
I did meet some other riders who were heading to Ak., and warned me of the road to com.
Day 2 I found out they weren't joking. The road down past Destruction Bay and on to Haines Junction is pure crap! After HJ the road to Whitehorse is back to normal.
Later