RLINK For REVER
Do you travel to distant lands or perhaps just to the Starbucks around the corner? Well, either way, I have just the thing for you, especially if you like that extra sense of security along the way. Several years ago, I was introduced to the REVER motorcycling app, which tracks your rides and shows you local rides in your area. There is also an ability to share your routes with others.
More recently, REVER introduced a motorcycle security tracking system, which connects directly to your motorcycle. This system syncs with your telephone and sends you updated alerts if your REVER unit detects movement, vibration, or a low battery. So, imagine if you were hanging out in a less than desirable area… you can have some reassurance. Should someone attempt to steal your ride, or take parts off, you can run outside and handle business… or just call the local authorities.
I’ve been testing the generation one (1) version for roughly eight (8) months now and have observed a ton of positives and few negatives regarding the system.
The main positives are obvious, including the aforementioned ability to receive alerts via text messaging for security purposes. Something else that is worth a mention is the fact that you can upload your routes and also live share your routes directly with family and friends.
The only serious downside I’ve noticed about this unit is the battery current draw. I run this in parallel with the BMW audible alarm. Through testing, I have learned that when the motorcycle is not being ridden daily, the current draw is very intense, and will cause your battery to be so low that you cannot start your motorcycle. This will occur within approximately four to five days. Now, keep in mind I am running two systems, so if you only use the REVER system, you will likely have different results. I like redundancy and I like my coffee black.
If you already have the REVER app, you probably pay for the premium membership, which unlocks all of the features. This system is one of the included features with that membership. The device retails for $250 and I will post a link below.
On a side note, the generation two (2) system has been released. It is all-inclusive and takes up less room. I found out that when running my Rally seat (which is how I did my install video), I can install the system quickly and easily. However, when switching back to stock or my other aftermarket seats, I could not fit the unit in the same location and needed to reroute it further back under the tail section. This added a little more inconvenience and an extra 30-45 minutes to the install time.
If you are not mechanically inclined, I would highly recommend allowing your dealer to install the unit, which will probably run you 1.5 hours of service.
I look forward to seeing further advancements of this system and hearing positive outcomes from theft prevention and recovery!
Ride safe and see you out on the road.
Posted in Gear Review & Thoughts and tagged #adventure, #alarm, #bmwmoa, #bmwmotorrad, #explore, #klim, #madeforadventure, #makelifearide, #motorcycle, #spiritofgs, #travel, #xladv, rever, rlink by admin with
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Muc-Off cleaning solutions
Hello, my fellow riders! Whether you’re a Moto guy/gal or bicycle rider, I’ve got some awesome cleaning supplies to introduce today!
Ever since I can remember, I’ve been keeping things “old school” with liquid soap and water when it came to my vehicles or two-wheeled machines. I was never one of those guys that went out and thought about a soap specific cleaning aid. If soap and water were good enough for my old man, then they were good enough for me… right? Well, yes and no. Over time, companies like Muc-Off developed specific products which help clean up and protect our most prized possessions.
I was given the opportunity to review Muc-Off’s snow foam and high performance waterless wash and I have to admit I was skeptical at first.
Video of product in action – Youtube
The snow foam is a PH neutral pre-wash solution. Yes, you heard me right: You spray it on over the mud and grime, wait about five minutes, and spray it off without having to scrub the bike. I actually have a high pressure sprayer of my own, which I used for this, but they do have a compact portable unit, which I will discuss in a later review. The formula is designed to significantly reduce the possibility of damage to paintwork and protects wax treatments.
Now, for the waterless wash, this is your go to spray-on/wipe-off for those in-between heavy wash days. If your bike is dusty or lacking that shine, spray this on and wipe off with a microfiber cloth for a nice, quick and easy clean. I’ve used this on my truck, moto, and mountain bike and it works great. The price is pretty comparable to what you would spend in a automotive store and if you sign up on the website, they send out a coupon code for 15% off.
Keep checking back, as I will be testing the full range of their products in the coming weeks, along with the specially designed portable pressure sprayer.
Until next time, ride safe and I will see you on out there!
Posted in Gear Review & Thoughts and tagged #adventure, #bmwmoa, #bmwmotorrad, #camping, #campinggear, #explore, #klim, #klimgear, #klimlife, #madeforadventure, #makelifearide, #motorcycle, #mucoff, #outdoors, #review, #spiritofgs, #tires, #travel, #xladv, CRF250L, R1200GS by admin with
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Field Company Skillet Field Test and Review
Cast iron skillet for a traveling motorcyclist?! Some of you are already wondering, “What the heck is this guy thinking?!” Those take up too much room and weigh a ton! You cannot possibly expect someone to travel efficiently on a motorcycle and bring a cast iron along.
America!
Well my friends, today you will learn that it can be done and with a lot less weight than you might expect. You will be surprised with just how little room it actually takes up when packed correctly.
One of my New Year’s goals was to cook more while camping, which was partially inspired by my Latin American friends. I already had a pot to boil water in and some very tiny saucepans, but wanted something I could really cook with while on the trail. I did my normal YouTube research, read reviews, and almost bought an aluminum saucepan.
Someone ask for some gluten?
Luckily I didn’t! For whatever reason, maybe pure luck, I came across an ad for “Field Company” while on Facebook. It was like the computer read my mind and this creation of a forged light weight cast iron skillet appeared!
I clicked on the ad, which brought me to a very professional, clean looking site. As I was scrolling down admiring the amazing looking foods cooked inside the pan, there was the verbiage, “Light enough to use everyday,” and just underneath it, “25-50% lighter than most cast irons.” My interest was piqued and I continued stalking the site.
Upon clicking the products link, I learned Field Company offers two sizes, the No. 10 and No. 8. I measured the size of my OEM pannier on my BMW R1200 GSA and was delighted to see that the No. 8 would lie flat inside.
#8
Before purchasing or supporting companies, I always like to know a little something about them. Reading over the “about” tab on the Field Company website, I learned of the company’s rich family history and the thought process behind recreating a tradition, while adding a modern touch to improve upon their designs. Another awesome feature about Field Company is that you are supporting an American made product with your purchase. The pans come with a lifetime warranty and you can have peace of mind that it will be passed down from one generation to the next.
I decided to reach out to the company to express my desires and expectations. I was greeted with a welcoming response and my brand new, adventure camping No 8. skillet arrived within a few weeks.
Personalized note inside
After a few back and forth phone conversations about how to properly care for and season the pan, I hit the ground running and started cooking bacon like any normal man would do!
Bacon!
Over the next few weeks of camping, I tested out a wide array of foods inside the pan. The skillet was tested over direct flame made with wood, coal, and just about anything lying around, including Amazon boxes and Starbucks cups. After using it in the field (get it, “field” as in Field Company….ah, never mind), I brought it home and used it on my glass cooktop. This truly is one pan that rules them all.
Camp fire flat bread
Ok now for my set-up… I initially used a towel to wrap the skillet and placed it flat side down on the bottom of the left pannier. Keeping the skillet at its lowest point on the motorcycle is crucial for proper packing. The towel worked but took up extra space. I went to my local hardware store and picked up a thin rubber tool mat, cut it to size, and used that for vibration control and protection. To protect the seasoning, I placed a piece of aluminum foil over the top. My additional camping items then fit inside the skillet, taking up almost no room. I use the sides and corners of the pannier to hold my salt, pepper, and garlic in place.
OEM PANNIER
If you like camping, meat, and motorcycles, this is the pan for you! I encourage you to give it a try!
Till next time, ride safe and I will see you on the road less traveled!
Posted in Gear Review & Thoughts and tagged #camping, #campinggear, #castiron, #cooking, #explore, #madeforadventure, #makelifearide, #motorcycle, #outdoors, #review, #xladv, cast iron, R1200GS by admin with
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Motoz Tractionator GPS Tire Review
Hello 2018!
What better way to start off a new year than with a set of new motorcycle tires for the upcoming riding season?!
I bring you my latest semi long-term test review of the Motoz Tractionator GPS tires. I equipped these tires on my 2014 BMW R1200 GSA back in August, 2017 and set my sights on some curvy roads. My goal was to challenge these tires in wet/slick conditions and determine their cornering abilities. I packed my bags and headed north to Lorton, VA and started my way down through the Shenandoah National Park. I got exactly what I wished for because it rained non-stop for the next several days.
Besides the rain, the leaves were changing colors and falling off; thus, providing me with an even greater challenge of riding untested tires on curvy roads, in wet conditions, and also on a leafy surface!
Having had 30k miles of experience with the direct competitor (Heideanu K60 Scouts), I wanted to focus on identifying the riding characteristics of the Tractionator GPS tires in comparison. I have always heard rumors about the K60 Scouts being slippery as hell on wet roads and never thought much of it, as I drive all the time in torrential Florida rain and had never experienced an issue. It wasn’t until my recent trip to Alaska, riding two-up on a straight road to Kennicot, that I fishtailed and fully understood the slippery horror others using the K60 Scouts had experienced before me. With pure luck and cheeks puckered, I managed to keep us upright and push on.
With that experience in mind, I continued on to the Blue Ridge Parkway to further test the handling of the Tractionator GPS tires. Getting used to them and feeling more confident, I made my way down to the bottom of famous Tail of the Dragon. I started my first run moderately and pushed harder on the following runs.
Check out my YouTube video from Tail of the Dragon:
The Tractionator GPS tires claim to be 50/50 with an option of the rear tire being reversed for even more traction off-road. I would rate them as a solid 60/40 road configured and a 50/50 off-road configured.
What I can tell you is that these tires perform well in all conditions with the possible exception of ice since I tend to stay away from frigid temps if I can help it. They are by no means a full road tire or hardcore motocross tire, but rather are a good all around adventure tire for those seeking the ability to jump on and off the road with confidence. I managed to rack up just under 4,000 miles and the Tractionator GPS tires show no signs of wearing out anytime soon. If I had a crystal ball, I would estimate these will last a total of 8-10k miles on the rear.
Price Comparison:
Motoz Tractionator GPS – Front $139; Rear $210
Heideanu K60 – Front $154-195; Rear $189-285
For years, consumers have had limited tire choices for the larger displacement motorcycles which offer both on-road and off-road manners. The Motoz Tractionator GPS tires are a win in my book and I will continue to use them for my long distance adventure travels.
For more product information, click the link below:
http://pacificpowersports.com/products/motoz-tires/
Till next time, ride safe and keep adventuring!
Posted in Gear Review & Thoughts and tagged #adventure, #bmwmotorrad, #madeforadventure, #makelifearide, #motorcycle, #xladv, BMW R1200 GSA, motoz, Motoz Tractionator GPS, R1200GS by admin with
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2017 KLIM Kodiak Jacket & Pant
Below, I have included specifications from KLIM for the Kodiak:
KLIM’s Kodiak: The Touring Survival System
Engineered to bring a more refined fit to the KLIM lineup, the Kodiak collection enters the touring world in a sleek and tailored style built for abuse. Featuring fully armored KLIM Technology to battle the weather, abrasion and travel’s most troublesome obstacles, KLIM’s Kodiak is the high-mileage touring king.
Designed for riders looking for the ultimate in precision fit, Kodiak is built on a base of GORE-TEX® Pro Shell GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY® main body fabric. Integrated perforated leather overlays in high-abrasion zones add functional style while muted corporate branding finishes the rugged and durable look. Functionality is the core of any KLIM product and the Kodiak has more than most. Each piece comes equipped with genuine YKK® zippers, D3O® CE-rated level two armor, intelligent ventilation ports and functional cargo carrying pockets. Each piece also features Black 3M™ Scotchlite™ reflective material.
Kodiak is a name that should be taken seriously. As one of the most remote regions of the American frontier, it has a wild and unforgiving reputation. KLIM built the world’s most functional and aggressively tailored touring apparel to honor this region. After all, in Kodiak, there is no pretending or hiding behind claims. Out there, it’s simply perform or perish. And KLIM is riding on.
KODIAK JACKET
WEATHERPROOF/DURABILITY
•GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL
•GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY®
•PERFORATED LEATHER OVERLAYS ON SHOULDERS AND ELBOWS
• MUTED TONAL BRANDING
•YKK® ZIPPERS
ARMOR
•D3O®CE LEVEL 2 ELBOW ARMOR
•D3O®CE LEVEL 2 SHOULDER ARMOR
•D3O®CE LEVEL 2 BACK PAD
•SPACER MESH CHEST PADDING
CARGO
• 2 EXTERNAL CHEST POCKETS
• 2 EXTERNAL HAND POCKETS
• 2 INTERNAL ZIPPERED POCKETS
• 2 INTERNAL OPEN STASH POCKETS
• 1 EMERGENCY INFO CARD POCKET ON FOREARM
• 1 HIDDEN PASSPORT POCKET IN LINING
• 1 GPS TRACKER POCKET ON CHEST
• 1 WATER RESISTANT NAPOLEAN POCKET
VISIBILITY
• BLACK 3M™ SCOTCHLITE™ REFLECTIVE MATERIAL
VENTILATION
• 2 CHEST VENTS
• 2 SIDE VENTS
• 2 BACK VENTS
• 2 BICEP VENTS
• 2 FOREARM VENTS
• SNAP BACK COLLAR
FIT/STYLE/COMFORT
• ACTION BACK TAILORING
• REMOVABLE INTERNAL KIDNEY BELT
• ADJUSTABLE ARM STRAPS
• JACKET-TO-PANT CONNECTION
KODIAK PANT
EXTERIORFEATURES
• GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL
• GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY®
• PERFORATED LEATHER OVERLAYS
• YKK® ZIPPERS
• MUTED TONAL BRANDING
ARMOR
• D3O® CE LEVEL 2 HIP ARMOR
• D3O® CE LEVEL 2 KNEE ARMOR
• SLIDER SYSTEM TO HOLD D3O® IN PLACE
• PORON® XRD® TAILBONE ARMOR
CARGO
• 2 CARGO POCKETS
VISIBILITY
• BLACK 3M™ SCOTCHLITE™ REFLECTIVE MATERIAL
VENTILATION
• 2 FRONT THIGH INTAKE VENTS
• 2 BACK THIGH EXHAUST VENTS
FIT/STYLE/COMFORT
• ELASTIC BACK WAISTBAND
• REMOVEABLE KLIM® SUSPENDERS INCLUDED
• JACKET-TO-PANT CONNECTION
About KLIM
KLIM® Technical Riding Gear is a global leader in designing, developing, sourcing and distributing the most advanced powersports apparel for the snowmobile, motorcycle and off-road rider. Utilizing the world’s highest technologies in waterproof, breathable, durable and comfortable materials, like GORE-TEX® products, KLIM® offers gear for the most demanding riders. Driven by the continual feedback and input from dedicated test pilots and passionate customers, KLIM® strives to do one thing above all – improve the riding experience without compromise. For more information, visit www.KLIM.com.
*All images have been provided by KLIM.
Posted in Gear Review & Thoughts and tagged #bmwmoa, #bmwmotorrad, #explore, #klim, #klimgear, #klimlife, #madeforadventure, #makelifearide, #spiritofgs, #xladv by admin with
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2016 Honda CRF250L Bike Build For Less
2016 Honda CRF250L
Awesome Bike Build for Less
I picked up the CRF250L back in October and immediately started researching and reaching out to companies who I wanted to be a part of the build list. I attended the AIMExpo in hopes of landing some contacts with companies who wanted to make this happen. Everything seemed to be going well… I had parts ranging from oil all the way up to exhaust lined up. I went home from the show feeling confident this was going to happen. I called and emailed my newfound contacts, but to my surprise, all I got were crickets. I mean nothing, not even a call back or a reply to my emails.
Seeing that I wanted to get the CRF250L build done sooner rather than later, I used the power of Google and eBay to shop around for parts. In the long run, it probably turned out better doing it this way, as the bike was more personalized.
2016 Honda CRF250L
My parts build list & cost:
Race Tech complete suspension upgrade – Retail: $1215, discount: $940 (http://www.racetech.com)
Seat Concepts comfort seat – Retail: $279, discount: $250 (http://www.seatconcepts.com/store/)
Precision rear rack – Retail: $94 (http://www.pmracks.com)
Cyclops LED headlight – Retail: $65, discount: $59 (https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com)
Hammer Head folding shifter – Retail: $46, discount: $29 (http://soloracer.com/dualsportparts.html)
FMF Q4 exhaust – Retail: $390, discount: $292 (http://www.eBay.com)
FMF Megabomb header – Retail: $275, discount: $218 (http://www.eBay.com)
Barkbuster “Jet” hand guards – Retail: $85 (http://www.pmracks.com)
Digital voltage meter – $5 (http://www.eBay.com)
Battery tender – Retail: $12, discount: $8 (http://www.eurocyclesoftampabay.com)
Glyde by Gerbing heated auxiliary plug – Free (I had a spare)
Flatlands Racing bash guard – Retail: $110, discount: $100 (http://www.CRFonly.com)
Flatlands Racing radiator guard – Retail: $60, discount: $50 (http://www.CRFonly.com)
Labor on Rach Tech install – $200
FMF Carbon Heat Shield – Retail: $90, discount: 70 (http://www.Rockymountainatv.com)
Total retail: $2,926, total w/discounts: $2,400
Race Tech gold valve and spring.
FlatLands radiator guard and bash plate.
Honda vs. Yamaha vs. KTM:
You might ask why I didn’t buy the Yamaha WR250R or a KTM? Well, it’s very simple actually… Cost vs. reward. I knew going into this that I wanted a specific set of options. The Honda CRF250L was OTD at $5,500, w/options $7,900, whereas the Yamaha WR250R was $8,200 OTD, w/options approximately $10,600, and the KTM from a 250-350 was going to be around $9,000 OTD.
KTM makes a great product, but I’m not into servicing the bike every other weekend and wanted to focus on keeping the cost down. The Yamaha was also a nice bike, but by adding the options that would have been required to make it acceptable to me performance wise, it would have put the build at $10,600! I might as well buy a KTM 690 at this point. The CRF250L vs. WR250R torque and HP is comparable at stock.
Some stats:
The CRF250L base has a claimed 23hp and 16lbs of torque. After my install of the FMF, it added approximately 4hp without the programer or airbox mod. The FMF also removed approximately 8lbs of added weight over the stock which helps balance out the radiator guard and bash plate addition.
FMF Megabomb Header and Q4 Exhaust.
So, taking the performance data and cost as well as knowing the superior round the world reliability, can you see why I went with the Honda CRF250L? Multi-purpose dual sport for $8,000 or spend $2,000 more to ride blue and be butt hurt wishing I had a just bought the 690 KTM.
The build did not take any real technical skill except installing the front suspension. I wasn’t about to count and measure all the washers needed for the gold valve kit. After speaking with FMF, I decided not to buy the EJK. Their rep was pretty confident that unless my intention was to race this bike, the slight gains would not be worth it. Which I was glad to hear, as I’ve spent all my lunch money by now. The Q4 and Megabomb kit are designed to run effectively with stock programming.
PMRack.
In the end, the bike looks and sounds amazing. Would I buy it again? Absolutely! I have an upcoming trip planned in the mountains of North Georgia to put this bike through its paces.
Until next time,
Ride safe!
Posted in Gear Review & Thoughts and tagged #bmwmoa, #bmwmotorrad, #explore, #madeforadventure, #makelifearide, #spiritofgs, #xladv, CRF250L, Honda by admin with
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Wilcox Boots
Hello fellow Adventurers!
So a few months back, I saw an ad come across my Facebook feed for Wilcox Boots with a nice picture of mud, dirt, and the great outdoors! I decided to click on the ad and within a week found a pair at my door step.
The company was originally a Kickstarter design which I thought was pretty cool. What really caught my interest in purchasing these was the well done company video, expressing the quality, handmade workmanship, and “Made in North America” brand.
I was in the need for a good pair of American-made leather boots and these looked like they would fit the bill. The price was on the high end at $190.00, plus shipping, but I decided to take the plunge.
I now emphasize “Made in NORTH America” because I misunderstood the video by assuming the boots are made in the good ole’ USA. I later found out the footbed was made in Connecticut and the boots were made in Mexico.
Initially, I was pretty upset and almost sent the boots back because I really wanted to support the American workforce. However, I decided to put them on and was instantly blown away by the glove like feel on the interior and comfort of the footbed. They come pre-waxed which aids in the waterproofness and smooth finish.
I have since spent many days and long hours in these boots, which included roughly 10 hours straight walking around the 2016 AIMExpo. I can say these are the most comfortable boots I have ever owned. The quality and workmanship is second to none. With new designs and colors coming out, I know these will not be my last pair!
Relaxing after a long day at the AIMExpo!
In the end, I’m extremely happy with my purchase and highly recommend them for anyone looking for a great all around boot!
Below is a link to the site and they have provided a coupon code “2wheeladv” for 25% off.
http://bit.ly/2f0sq8F
Posted in Gear Review & Thoughts and tagged #bmwmoa, #bmwmotorrad, #explore, #madeforadventure, #makelifearide, #spiritofgs, #xladv by admin with
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Klim Krios Karbon Adventure Helmet
All aboard the KLIM KRIOS train!
Several months ago, I had the opportunity to meet one of the KLIM Regional Managers who happened to be at my local dealership (EuroCycles Of Tampa Bay). After checking out some of the new products coming in, I was asked about providing my input on a review regarding the new helmet they would be releasing soon.
Of course, I said I would be glad to, but did I actually think I would receive the helmet? Eh… 50/50. However, true to their word, the UPS man arrived a few weeks later and left a brand new Klim Krios Karbon helmet at my door.
After unboxing the helmet and looking over the features, I turned to my wife and told her to go pack for a camping trip!
My initial impressions of this helmet was that it’s super light, looks awesome, and has an easily interchangeable face shield. Included inside the box was the dark tinted shield.
We packed the R1200GSA and headed north to Helen, GA, through Deal’s Gap, around to Gatlinburg, TN and finally had to head back down south to Florida. I acquired approximately 1400 miles in total with the Krios and my longest day was roughly 550 miles, not to mention we were two-up.
With this helmet only weighing approximately 3.25 lbs, and being almost a pound lighter then my older helmet (Shoei Hornet X2), it was a considerably noticeable difference. In the past, due to a old injury, I would feel neck and shoulder fatigue within an hour or so of riding. Not the case with the Krios. Its low weight and well thought out peak design helps eliminate excess pulling from wind and diverts it to the open cutouts which in turn, either force air into the helmet for ventilation or create a stabilizer as it passes to the rear spoiler.
If I could change two things, it would be to add a windscreen opening on the right side, and to be able to raise the windscreen just a crack to add additional venting when in serious humidity.
All in all, I think this helmet was well thought out, looks good, and priced very reasonable at $549.99, which is well below what I believe it could sell for.
They have a transition lens as an option, and the ability to equip a Sena 10U headset, which is made specifically for the Krios. Currently two color schemes are available including, Element Matte White and Stealth Matte Black. Klim will be soon releasing several other color options which look pretty awesome!
I want to give a big thanks to Dustin and the staff at KLIM for making this happen!
If you have further questions about the Krios, hit me up! Until next time…
Krios enjoying the view.
Our waiter liked the helmet so much, he moved the table over just to sit it on top!
Posted in Gear Review & Thoughts and tagged #bmwmoa, #bmwmotorrad, #explore, #madeforadventure, #makelifearide, #niagarafallstourismcanada, #spiritofgs, #xladv by admin with
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GA, TN, and NC – Weekend Getaway
Happy Fall Y’all! It’s the better half of 2wheeladv, back to share about our most recent trip 2-up.We started out the Autumn Solstice with a little motorcycle ride up I-75 through hell, er… Florida, which has not quite gotten the Fall memo yet.
Once we caught sight of the mountains in North Georgia, the temperature significantly dropped and we started to enjoy ourselves. We came upon a fabulous creamery/ice cream shop which caught up with me and my lactose intolerance not long afterwards. I confess and repent of my foodie sins as this trip completely blew my non-dairy, gluten-free diet. 
We made our way to Helen, GA, and celebrated the first official day of Oktoberfest with a beer and pretzel. Not much else to taste that evening since the town center was hoppin’ (quite literally), but everything else shut down early.
We spent the night at the Unicoi Lodge, in an overpriced 1980’s room albeit on pristine grounds with lovely flowers. The next morning, we partook of German baked goods and carried on about our trip.
Next up, was slaying the Dragon Tail.
Following such badassery, we made our way to the lovely Gatlinburg, TN. We glamped in a hotel that night due to the rain and sipped on some delicious blackberry wine after tacos. The server loved the Klim Krios so much that he gave the helmets their own table.
We made our way back towards North Georgia via a scenic parkway. The rain kept it nice and cool and it was a lovely ride. We spotted our dream home along the way.
For our final evening, we spent the night at the Lake Oconee KOA in Greensboro GA.
It was a charming spot overlooking a lake. We relaxed in the hammock before I hid in the restroom for a half hour due to a spider blocking the door.
We returned to the Sunshine State the following day, but not without encountering a religious zealot at a Burger King. That’s middle GA for you. This licensed mental health counselor had to keep it moving in order to practice what I preach (tolerance, non-violence, etc.).
Overall, it was a relaxing, long weekend and a great way to celebrate the change of a season and new beginnings. Here’s to hoping for cooler days ahead in the Sunshine State.
Posted in Travel, Weekend getaways and tagged #bmwmoa, #bmwmotorrad, #explore, #madeforadventure, #makelifearide, #niagarafallstourismcanada, #spiritofgs, #xladv by admin with
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2016 BMW MOA Rally & Beyond
Longest adventure yet two-up! Written by 2wheeladv’s better half.
Could not have picked a better week to leave the country this past month with all of the political nonsense coming to a head, and story after story of senseless violence. We were reminded to go back to the basics on this trip, yet also enjoyed the finer things life has to offer and each other’s company, of course.
Our trip began with some Florida friends and a trip to good ol’ Cracker Barrel for some breakfast ham and hash brown casserole. We made our way over to Sanford for the Auto Train and made it there with plenty of time to spare, but then the train was 4-5 hours late so we had plenty of time to wait.
Good thing us GS riders can be spotted without question, for at the train station we met up with several new friends, waited together, and made a party out of it to boot. A little shady gas station trip later with our shuttle driver and personal body guard, we had some cheap wine and beer to go along with our pizza delivery.
Prior to boarding the train, we indulged in some local fried chicken and biscuits, courtesy of Amtrak, and continued on our journey of breaking every diet rule we have been trying to follow since New Year’s Day.
Minus the ridiculously long delay, the train ride to Virginia was smooth and we had a great night’s rest.
Lunch onboard the Auto Train
Once we disembarked, we followed some friends on a scavenger hunt for GS Giants, but after a while, the stop and go became too cumbersome with two-up and a fully loaded bike, so we did our own thing.
We made our way through the countryside of Pennsylvania, which is now one of my top places I must explore more in depth my lifetime. I picked out my farm at the top of a hill and dreamed about moving my fur babies there, plus several horses, cute little pigs, maybe a llama, goats, chickens… oh, and perhaps the husband. 😉
Interestingly enough, the scavenger riders ended up staying out the same hotel as us, just by the PA/NY line, which was unplanned and somewhat creepy, but as I said earlier, one can spot a GS rider, and apparently a certain pair of Florida GS riders, without question.
Holiday Inn
The following day, we rose early and continued on our way through the Allegany Mountains of New York. It was a lovely ride with perfectly moderate weather, and lots of sun. We rode all the way to Toronto.
Riding in for the first time
Toronto was a mind blowing city to ride through on a motorcycle, and the traffic was unreal, no matter the time of day. Toronto has so many skyscrapers that there are at least 3 main parts of the city. We checked out the BMW shop in Toronto, which sells both cars and Motorrad. Snooty to say the least, with the exception of one service rep, who reported that their insurance for Motorrad is 10k per year. We checked out the 4th floor Motorrad section then thanked our lucky stars that our insurance rates are much better. Explains why so many people were staring at us!
BMW Toronto
Had a taste of poutine at Smokes and made our way to the KOA Kampground. No way that we were going to shell out $400/night on a hotel! We bought some Canadian hard apple cider (the first of many), and Canadian candies to snack on and called it a night.
KOA West Toronto
We returned to downtown Toronto in the morning and acted all touristy at the CN Tower after enjoying some coffee and such from Tim Hortons. We also checked out Kensington Market, which is the most extensive farmer’s market we have visited. I convinced the husband to try Kombucha Tea along the way so he could experience what it feels like to be a glorified hipster.
CN Tower
Kensington Market
Kensington Market
Checked out Budd’s Motorrad on our way south, and the hubs got his hands on the new BMW GS Trophy Helmet, which is not yet available in the U.S. Might have pissed a few people off with that purchase, but the man could not stop himself and I really could not blame him.
Budds’ Motorrad
BMW GS Trophy Carbon Fiber Helmet
Us 2wheeladv-enturers then rode ourselves to the Marriott Fallsview on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. We parked ourselves in a top floor room for several days. Why would want to leave with a Jacuzzi tub and a perfect view of the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Wednesday evening fireworks?? Ate some overpriced appetizers along the way, and continued our mission to remain a wee bit tipsy on Candian hard apple cider throughout the trip.
Marriott Fallsview 23rd Floor!
We received punishment for our many drinks and poor food choices when it was time to walk everywhere… resorted to paying $4 one-way for the two of us to take a hillside elevator; although, it was not in operation when we attempted to use it to access the Journey Behind the Falls experience. Thus, we enjoyed a brisk walk all the way around the hill at 7:30am.
Next up was Ontario-on-the-Lake. Basically Canadian Wine Country. A pristine town with culture, amazing cheese, and wine. Tried some ice wine and it literally changed my life. Had to make some room in the panniers to bring home some booze. We have our priorities straight for sure.
We then made our way back to the American side and had a nice little chat with some Border Patrol Agents. 😉
Next up was Buffalo, NY. We checked into a Hyatt and then made our way to the MOA Rally in Hamburg, NY. I people watched before deciding it was more my honey’s deal than mine and scheduled a massage for the next morning (which was glorious after riding so much on the back of a motorcycle).
GS Giants Course
Later on, we dined at Oshun with Aaron from EuroCycles of Tampa Bay and met some more new and old GS friends.
Best meal we had during the trip for sure!
Saturday, husband returned to the rally and hobnobbed with the vendors while I gallivanted with the ladies. Had some delicious coffee at SPoT Coffee in Buffalo, enjoyed the massage, and met “The Man who stopped the Falls.”
For real, his engineering firm stopped the American Falls with a dam in the 70s. The Falls Stopper and his lovely wife took us on a tour of the American side of the Falls and we had burgers at On Top of the Falls.
Redverz Vendor
I reunited with hubby, and our group checked out Anchor Bar, birthplace of the Buffalo Wings. Interestingly enough, their spaghetti was the real winner!
The Original!
Dinner with friends.
After being accosted by an ununiformed, no ID, and open carry “security officer” in a parking garage, we lived to see the next day, which was mostly a riding day. We rode over 450 miles for Maryland Crab Cakes at Romano’s in Glen Burnie, MD. I had experienced them frozen, but fresh was amazing for sure.
Crab cakes!
The following morning, we toured DC and made our way back to the Auto Train. Got harrassed again by a man who was loading bikes for Amtrak and clearly took issue with GS riders. We were not the only ones, but at least our train was on-time for the return trip. We rode in coach on the way back, which will never occur again, if I have my way, but made it back to Sunny Florida. Hotter than hell, we stopped at a favorite Mexican spot in San Antonio, FL and finally made it back to our little farm. Not the hilltop one, but I am working on it. We immediately wanted to return to where we came from, where the weather was more moderate and duty did not call, but after settling back in, home did feel sweet after all.
Bridge to USA
Long Way Down…
No sleeping bag, just KLIM gear.
Unloading at the Auto Train, Lorton VA.
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