When I was in my early 20's, (1984) 4 friends and I planned to ride from Ga. to Cali. on our bikes. My job would not give me unpaid time off so I quit, then , 1 by1 all my freinds backed out. So I went alone. My bike was a 1980 Harley Sporster with a 2.2 gallon tank. I had a ball! took all backroads, met tons of great people, saw awesome places. I was gone 1 month. Now, 40 years later, I'm addicted to taking long m/c trips with my family. I enjoyed your story but would advise- Never get in a hurry. see all you can while you can. Ride safe.
Meet my buddy plan the same thing in 1983 and did it leaving in February in the snow from New York to Key West out to California. He wrote a 1978 yummy 650 and I rode a 1977 super glide that broke down daily. 😂. It took us about two months and absolutely was life-changing. I recommend it to everyone. we were 23 years old.
Good for you going out alone. I hate when I try to plan folks to come along then they female me or back out or complain. It seems hard but it's great to have people along but often then l they will threaten to blow trip for me but I make clear. I AM going! Love to have you along but I am going no matter what
In 1980, at the age of 24, I rode my 1966 BMW R50/2 to Oregon in 9 days, then took 5 months to tour America and return to NY. There is so much to see and experience in America. Complete strangers I met along the way took an interest in my travels, and many times I was invited to dinner or given a room for the night in exchange for sharing tales about my trip. I also learned that people who have the least to give will go out of their way to help others. I have lived my life trying to pay it forward. Thanks for stirring my memories. Bob
I've done a few of these long trips, and it's the difficulties that make it memorable. You guys are so great to have started doing this while still so young. This video is excellent, and I'm betting there will be more trips like this in your future. I really think the same trip on new bikes would not have been as adventurous and fun. Good times, guys!
I’m old and retired now, but many years ago did 2 long distance motorcycle rides, the longest being WI to LA on a Yamaha RD 400 2 stroke. Like you guys we didn’t have much money and rode what we had. Brought back memories, thanks for posting your story. One thing I remember saying back then was if we do this again it will be on back roads only, no interstates if we can help it. And no more than 250 miles per day.
Wow, I thought the world had gone to hell but you gave me a glimmer of hope for future generations with this wonder trip. Thanks from a 74 year old for renewing hope and memories of past rides in the 60s.
The memory of this trip will last your lifetime. I did a 26K mile ride in '17 covering 48 state rides on a 10 year old V-Star 650 at age 58. I did it solo but you got to share it with a friend. Perhaps you'll be able to recreate it with your kids someday.
I don’t know why you say 2 idiots, this is something people dream of doing and never get the chance, you guys did it and it’s something you will remember forever, nice video
You two brought a tear to my eye. My dearest best friend and I also shared a journey of a lifetime same as you. When he passed away from cancer in 2000, that journeys memory helped us through his final journey in life. What great memories of youth and adventure you will have forever. Our journey happened in 1970 17 yr.'s old on Honda cb350's spring break traveling from Denver to SanDiago and back in 6 days $50 in our pockets a camera. Sleeping on the ground, heat, snow, rain, breakdowns, of course our inspiration was Easy Rider back then. Anyway, what a great story you two have told and THANKS for sharing it. You've inspired me to gather my few pics and tell my story to friends and family
I've spent about five of my seven decades riding motorcycles and oddly the trips I remember best are the ones that involved a breakdown or something that didn't go to plan. The kindness of strangers, both riders and non-riders will always be remembered. The road is always an adventure and sometimes in ways that you didn't expect but that only adds to the story. As I try to remember when I'm being played up by fate, the worse the situation is now, the better the story is later. Thanks for sharing your adventure and many more in future. T.
That's awesome. I rode from NW Oklahoma to Key West on a 2007 883 with a peanut tank. 100-120 miles between stops was about as far as I could ride but that also turned out to be about the perfect amount of riding time before we all wanted a break. That was about 10 years ago and I still think about that experience every day it was amazing.
I liked your story.....I did a cross the USA trip.....starting in my home Tempe AZ to Maine in the spring of 1978.....I was on my green 77 Kawasaki KZ650 with 2300 miles.....my best friends 76 Honda cb 750 with about 5k miles......mine was bought new at Kellys Kawasaki in Mesa.....Larry was bought from some guy in Phoenix who wife had a fit when he bought the bike.....both bike were stock....mine had case guards....thats it...and some highway pegs.....and a ugly rack for the back......I had at least 50 -55 pounds loaded with some toss over saddle bags....when we got back I had 14800 miles. other than many flats.....dead battery......Larry had cam problems....His friend joined in the fun in Jacksonville FL he rode a Suzuki 550 triple 2 stroke....which to my surprise was my fav bike of the bunch.....we swapped bikes often .....my bike was liked least but voted best looking......it was the end of the 2 stroke rode bikes but when i got back i found a new last year 75? Suzuki 500 twin titan....which was one of the best bikes i ever owned.....I was hit at 18k miles.....what i would give to get 2 stroke street bikes back!
1980's bikes were very reliable....once you got them back into shape again, they will go for a long time. Not idiots for choosing those rides. In my 20's did it on a '67 Triumph Bonneville ... which made it but still not sure how. It was a tired oil burner (quart a day by the time I was done, plugs cleaned up once in the morning and once at lunch) that needed everything tightened up every night when I started and needed completely rebuilt when I got back....but it was one sharp looking ride. Now, in my mid-sixties getting ready do it again on a 150cc Vespa. You guys aren't idiots, just joining the club.
Absolutely brilliant job with the video and ride fellas. As a young fella I did a lot of touring in the 80s and 90s using just 2 bikes a 1978 Suzuki GS550B and a 1975 Kawasaki Z900 here in Australia. Nowadays a degenerative bone disease means I can no longer ride much so watching videos like this although sad at times really takes me back to my youth. Anyway thanks so much for sharing it’s road trip memories that you’ll always remember. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I took the wife on a tour around Cornwall in the in the UK this summer. We went on a 1974 Norton. I applaud you for taking old bikes, it makes it so much more fun! Great video, I loved it. BTW, I used to have a CB900 in the 80s, it was no better than yours. Thanks again.
Thank you for sharing, makes me think and start from the West Coast to the East Coast on my scooter Suzuki Burgman 400, the problem is I am 72 and will be a solo rider, can't hear very well without my hearing aids...and my broken English. God will decide if I will or will not. Beautiful America and God Bless our nation.
Well done fellas, at 51 years old and having had two back fusions I’m super envious of your youthfulness. I would have enjoyed going on a trip like this with my best friend. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Thank you for the video log of your long cross country. I had a few cross countries in the early 90s, none as long as yours, but mine were also eventful. I was 28 when my mother passed from cancer. Grieving, I rode from my rented bedroom in Miramar, San Diego to the Grand Canyon, a little over 500 miles, solo and back in 24 hours and obtained a iron-butt patch. I had a well worn 1982 Magna. I had only cash for gas, so no motels. I slept on the ground. It was early July and I roasted! My rear tire showed threads after the drive through the Mojave and I had to spend my food money on a rear tire. Later, I got pulled over by the police who thought I was a prison escapee! I realized going through the extreme heat of the desert, it's best to wear long sleeves and gloves for sun protection. I love hot tea, and I carried a thermos of the stuff, and sipped it on my breaks, even when it was 112 degrees out. I'm about to turn 60. Next year, I hope to ride with my 18 year old son on a motorcycle adventure.
I just turned 60 and started riding motorcycles when I was 8. Did you get a chance to ride with your son yet? If not, make sure you make it happen and good luck! Fellow rider.
Hey that was a great short film of an awesome feat considering what you guys were working with. Many people daydream about taking on a journey like that with a friend but never make it happen -you guys got moxie!!!!👍🏼
Enjoyed this story. I recall overcoming adversities as a young man on motorcycle adventures. Now, as an old man...I'd catch a plane home. As I told my children, have your adventures while you are young. These memories will be fun to recall and tell for the rest of your lives.
This is great. I rode a 81 Yamaha Maxim 650 I got for $300 from S. CA to Canada and the transmission started making noises in WA. It seized up soon after it crossed the border, I abandoned it and flew home ! Long trips really put a strain on already old parts for sure
Great adventure. Thanks for sharing it with us. I started riding on trips like this in the early '60's. Been doing it ever since. Sometimes with friends, sometimes solo. The memories are worth the frustration. Don't let this be the only time you did this. Keep doing it as often as you can. At times, you'll swear you're never gonna do it again. But after it's over, you'll have great memories. And you'll meet people you never imagined existed.
I'd say the old Kawi was the hero of the trip, can't blame a blown tire on the bike. I ran into "the Christian Motorcycle Association" at a motoamerica race a couple years ago, talk about awesome folks. I didn't really want to carry around my $800 Arai all day and they gladly checked it in, even put it in it's own bag. All free of charge!
Man!!! What an awesome story. It's funny how we all strive to do that "thing"! Whatever it is. There are hundreds of examples. You just go do it. My little adventure was not nearly this epic. But my buddy and I took two old Goldwings, one was a '78 and one was an '82. We did a 2500 mile trip through the Dragon and North Carolina and North Alabama, and then back to Florida. Both bikes were rescues and I worked on them them whole way. But nevertheless it was an awesome trip. That was 10 years ago. Now we are in the last phase of our adventures as we are now in our 60's and 70's. But I feel one more adventure coming .... Probably going to tackle the TAT on adventure bikes next. But we are simply just slowing down. The wives have rolled their eyes at us for 40 years. Old scooter riders never die, they just keep just keep going! Awesome adventure you enjoyed. Congratulations, bro.
Great story and journey , thanks for sharing it , last time I did it was 2017 , East Bay to Maryland on a 1999 Sporster in August , HOT ! I'm 73 now & planning to do it long round trip style in a few years on a KLX 300 , Good Lord willin' & the proverbial crik don't rise to high , thank you for sharing your wonderful ride.........
This could have turned out quite bad, I think the next time you try a road trip like this you need to understand and prepare the bikes better and carry tools and spares with you. In my youth I did some epic stupid things on bikes riding all over the country on old British bikes but was always able to overcome adversity due to having a good grounding in motorcycle mechanics and having tools and spares with me. One time in 1977 when I was 16, while touring in Scotland (400 miles from home) and in the middle of nowhere, I had a valve spring suddenly break which jammed up and bent a pushrod on my BSA 500 Royal Star, this was fixed by the roadside in less than an hour with me removing the top valve spring retainer of the affected valve with a screwdriver with the head still in place on the engine and removing the pieces of broken outer spring and refitting everything with just the weak inner spring to close the valve, then beating the pushrod straight again with rocks, then re-assembling to find that the bike ran perfectly, although I had to keep the rpm down due to the weak valve spring, happy days..
As much as I like motorcycles, my car habit usually eats most of my funds, however many times I have dreamed of doing the same thing in a 70s car. My 72 Chevelle or 76 Chevy short bed step side. But with old American muscle, fuel would be the biggest restraint. I live about 30 minutes from Branson Missouri on the Arkansas border. So it's similar to the scenery in hot springs, and the lake roads that snake thru the Ozark mountains. But I also imagine throwing a small camper in the truck, or tents and such, just bringing my shelter along, camping along the way
A few months ago I was in the Sierra Nevada mountains with no cell service, I ran out of gas on my bike in the middle of nowhere my gas light appears to not work. Lucky I was going up in elevation the for along time past the last small town. I ended up turning back and coasting about 5 miles back to that small mountain town . There was no gas stations for 15 miles. I ended up talking to a residents and they had a lawn mower with gas in it. I cut open a 1 gallon milk jug and tapped it to my gas tank to use as a funnel and held the lawn mower upside down over my bike while cars where driving by looking at this freak show. I made it to the gas station and was so lucky I had ran out of gas where I did.
Wow, you'll remember this for a lifetime. Thanks so much for sharing the trip, it reminded me of my younger days when I rode around the US on my bikes. First a couple of Jap bikes and then on Harleys. We didn't have a video camera to carry around and film it all, so I'm stuck with just the memories. Videos like yours helps with the remembering. Thanks again.
In 1984 I rode my Kawasaki 750 Turbo from Norfolk VA while i was in the NAVY, to Spingfield MO. I had no issues on my trip. Today at 63, I own a 2020 Harley Davidson Road Glide Special which is the bike to own for comfort.
something I learned from construction workers, wear long sleeves no matter how hot it is on your bike, save you from sunburn and help reduce dehydration
This vid popped up in my queue, I was intrigued at the title and also how short the video was for a coast to coast ride. However, I was very impressed with your story, your experiences, your bike improvisation / fixing skills and abilities, video editing and the rest. A great vid that beats the 101 episode yawn fests that other vloggers would do for such a monumental ride (which you did on clunkers!)….much respect ✊🏿 stay cool 😎 and ride safe!
I've taken some really long trips on my '77 Kawasaki KZ-1000, '78 Honda Goldwing and '86 Honda Goldwing without incident. The trick is to start out making short trips to sort out any problems before the long hauls.
I'm getting ready for a cross America trip this spring. Awesome hearing about your adventures. I've stopped to help many motorcycle riders in my local area, we have to stick together.
@@robmcguckin7605 yup did 6500 miles, across the country them down to the South then back across. Was epic fun. I saw so much, froze my toes in south Dakota, cooked my cajones in Georgia, swollen feet in Washington DC, dodged a tornado in Nebraska. Was awesome. I'm about to leave for a 9 day trip to Colorado next week. Somehow I keep missing that state on my trips. Where are you planning on going for your trip?
@@wyattblessing7078 Thats awesome man! My trip starts in NJ from home, traveling south to NC and Florida to visit friends then head west on Route 66 until San Diego. I'll store the bike at a friends garage until my 2nd leg which will be up the coast until Oregon and ultimately Alaska on the Dalton Highway 900 miles until the end of the road. :)
@@robmcguckin7605 that is epic. I'm jealous. I have been up the Cassiar Hwy and the AlCan. Been up the Dalton. I lived in Alaska for about 13 years. Be sure and go to the Moose's Tooth for pizza and beer in Anchorage. Your going to love that ride. I'm planning on doing it myself in about 2 years. Go see old friends.
@@wyattblessing7078 Don't be jealous yet my friend because right now, it's just a dream in the planning stage. :) Right now, I'm riding an older BMW R1100RS but for this trip am looking for either a GS, Africa Twin or maybe a Tenere. There is no way I'd attempt the Dalton HWY on anything other than an adventure bike. Mooses Tooth, I will add to the list, sounds like a great place!
Major kudos to you both for continuing on despite the setbacks along the way and maintaining your sanity. Much love to all the kind folks that stopped and helped you as well that is what we need more of in these modern times.
Two friends and I rode from Maryland to the Oregon coast and back the end of June - early July. I was riding my '90 Moto Guzzi California III and my friends were on a '71 Moto Guzzi 750 Ambassador and '73 Moto Guzzi 850 Eldorado. All three bikes were well prepared before the trip. We were carrying some spare parts, tire irons, spare tubes and most importantly - a small electric air pump. Zero breakdowns, just a leaky petcock which was tightened and one fouled plug on my Cal III. 6650 miles. That's one item checked off my "bucket list".
Great great video. I too in 1973 traveled across the country on a Suzuki 500 two stroke. Had a great time. I still ride but now shorter trips. Was that ITF Taekwondo I saw??
Never ride summer sun bare skinned. Ride desert at night. Need earplugs if riding without helmet. Once had a cb900 myself. You guys will always have these memories. You can always make new friends. But you can't make new old friends.
I have always ridden old bikes. My primary ride today is a 1987 GL1200 with 100,000 miles on it. When I'm in the states I ride it every day and make a cross country trip every other year.
Loved the video, it brings back many memories of traveling on my 1980 CB900C. Two big difference's though, the bikes were still new(er) so were a tad bit more reliable and we slept on the ground next to the bikes! haha.....
My girlfriend (now wife) and I rode from Van Nuys, CA to Fort Lauderdale, FL on a CB500 turbo, 35 years ago. We did about 400 miles per day. No breakdowns at all. A wonderful trip.
You guys are awesome. Thank you for sharing your journey. I have to point out, as a Bay Area native, that you missed riding the must-ride highway 1 along the coast of California but I suspect it might have been a safer choice given the state of your bikes.
Before a longer trip, it is normal to do an overhaul, especially on some old motorcycles. What you said at the end of the video intrigued me and made me write. Motorcycles from the 80s and 90s are very durable and reliable, but before a long trip any motorcycle needs some preparation! I wondered how many times the Honda broke down, which in my opinion is among the best motorcycles!
If you guys did this trip in July, you're crazy. I live about 25 miles southeast of Phoenix, and I don't ride in the daytime for about 5 months out of the year. Temperatures are usually around 110-115 degrees, and that is just plain dangerous. You can dress for cold, there is nothing you can do about heat, except drive an air conditioned car, which is what I do all summer.
Awesome journey, and great filming. Yes, a new low mile bike is the only way to go cross country, I do it on a Goldwing. I'm spoiled and nowhere as tough and gutsy as you guys! Well done!!! God bless you, get some new bikes you can stretch out on and keep on riding!
Man times change. Your cross country romp alot nicer than I ever saw. Set camp basically where ever we hit and didn't feel like going again. Many times right on the side of highway. Motels came in when a shower was a dream. Many great meals at some of least known cafes helped out my belt line. Worst time ever was loosing a chain on my Triumph heading up to Sturgis.
Reminds me of Trevor Ware's trip. If you haven't read about it, look it up. He and his friend took a CB550 and I think a CB900 from Arkansas to California. He went by KernCountyKid and had a blog on it. Trevor, unfortunately, got into an accident and became handicapped, but his story is still a great one and quite inspirational
Age 70, took a 1980 Kawasaki 1000 from WA to Sturgis (for the Party) and on to Chicago to catch Route 66. Rode 66 all the way to Santa Monica and the did the Pacific Coast Highway back to WA. It took about 8 weeks to cover all the miles (7000) and all the kitschy tourist attractions that made the Mother Road famous. Tips: 2 liters camelback (fill with ice every morning) Long sleeve tee shirts (at least 2) Metric sockets and wrenches (Harbor Freight fine) Black tape and zip ties
This is excactly the sort of thing I've been planning to do I put 20,000+ miles on a 1981 Suzuki Gs-650L during just over 1 year of commuting from June of 2022 to September 2023, ended up having a problem with the CDI ignition system and decided to spring for a more long-distance style bike to get closer to my goal of touring America on a bike. Ended up getting a 1986 Honda Goldwing 1200, it was one heck of a learning curve to work on compared to my normal trade of Suzuki (various Gs and GT series) and Yamaha (Virago and Vstar), but I've been gradually running/riding and working closer to my goal of cross-country travel with her.
A trip you’ll never forget. One of my shortest, yet memorable trips was from Southern Spain to Madrid on a cold January 7th 1993. In the military and shipped my bike over there. I’m thinking it was around a 400 mile trip but with the cold, I was stopping around every 30-45 minutes. 5 layers of cold riding gear but the cold just beat through it with no windscreen of that KZ-700. Ended up taking over 13 hours as I got a late start because of the timing of the bike being unloaded off the ship. And the cables were rusted and spent almost two hours freeing them up and jump starting the dead battery. Someone had turned on the ignition key while the bike was being transported. Hmm. But it was a trip I’ll never forget. Temperature was in the mid to low 20s when the Sun went down. It was crazy!
Great story , very fortunate one of you had some mechanical knowledge. I've done many motorcycle trips and had my share of problems on bike trips. Can't say I really liked being a mechanic all my life but it sure saved me many times. Like the old saying, Adapt and improvise. Key thing with motorcycle trips is PREPARATION. One of the interesting things of going to motorcycle rallies when a bunch of old guys are sitting around at night telling stories of there travels and problems they encountered.
Bravo, for the footage you filmed and the editing. Excellent level. Added superb narration makes this an A+ plus moto production. I too have do a similar trip in the 80’s so I totally get it. Cheers. Ride safe.
That was really ace, you appears in my list thing and I didn't expect to watch much but stopped work and watched the whole thing. Well done for making this journey and thank you for sharing it.
Really enjoyed your video guys. I've been fortunate enough to have had many trips in my 60 years. Hopefully many more. But it's is way cool seeing what you two did. Those memories will be some of the most fond ones you will ever have. Keep making them. Ride on and keep the shiny side up.
Nice video and what a memorable trip! After 43 years of riding and quite a bit of travelling my experience is ~ I use a very reliable/comfortable/fuel efficient motorcycle (mine is cb500x 71 mpg), travel back-roads ONLY, stop often for breaks (stay hydrated), don't set time/destination goals at all if possible (no pre-booking rooms or campgrounds), if I do have a final destination goal allow 2 to 3 days travel for what would normally take 1 day in a car on the interstate, start considering where I want to stop for the day at lunch time (I try to never exceed 6 to 8 hours travel including breaks), in the summer mountainous areas stay cooler (ideal), if I want to travel every day I get a room of some sort otherwise camping is way too much work unless I plan to stay at a campground for several days, make sure I do all maintenance pre-trip (oil, brakes/tires etc.), stop for many pics so I have photos of all the amazing scenery. That's how I fly @ #nobodycares!
Agree completely. Back roads all the way. Even high-powered bikes are no fun on interstates. I rode a BSA through Europe in the early 70's. Tried the autobahn once and that was that.
Just completed a mini tour along south coast of England & up through Wales on a Yamaha FJR1300 😁, did do a single motorway (interstate highway). It was all 'A class', 'B class', & some of the roads were tarmac with grass growing up the centre. Still completed 1500 miles in a week though😁. CA t wait till next spring to go on tour again 😎😁😁🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧
That was a awesome video… I’m sure it’s something to remember… I know a guy that was in the navy ..I think he was in San Diego … he got out of the navy so he was coming home… he bought a little Honda 350 twin and put his stuff on it and rode all the way to rising fawn Georgia… I bet that was a ride to remember.. but that was in somewhere around 1974.. less people driving with their cell phones out and other crazy stuff… I enjoyed the video guys… thanks…
I love this video! It makes my heart happy that you took this trip. And your ability to overcome the numerous obstacles was impressive. Good for you two! Keep adventuring.
I crossed the Canada on a 1974 Honda CB750 in 1976. Among the 4 bikes that I've ridden coast to coast was my 2000 Concours. Almost nothing changed over the years on the Gen 1 Connies except the colour and the star spring. I'm still riding. And still crossing the country.
Why cant I have friends like you? We used to do alot of this but my friends got old, married or had kids. Plenty of break downs and it was a good thing I was mechanically inclined. I had to hotwire a few, patch, plug adjust the chain but man you guys had a challenge. Get yourself a "Guardian Bell". It might help :)
It’s the buckets of optimism that is great when we’re young, there’s a lot of can do because we don’t think about the what ifs! Whereas as we get older we can think of too many things that might block our ideas! You’re definitely not idiots, but great young men on an adventure…. Good on you and I thoroughly enjoyed your story.
That Honda engine, no matter in 750, 900, or 1100 cc form, always has the stator and regulator rectifier go bad. I had one of these for years, and it would fail every 6 months or so. I don't think Honda still has fixed this issue with its other engines. What a shame.
It seems counter-intuitive, but you have to cover up in the desert or in heat in general. You lose fluids quickly even in humid conditions. I learned that the hard way…Good vid. I enjoyed it a lot. Do it again before time slips away. You always think you have plenty of time, until you don’t.
That was very nicely done! I bought a Virago 250 (its fast) and have thought a lot about doing what you did. Thanks for the good and the bad. Great vid!
THE TITLE ; Hahahaha . Got my first bike 40 years ago and my mom asked me if I wanted to go cross country . I told her no way ! She asked why . I told her while it is tempting I don't want to sleep on the side of the road . Kudos to you ! Good thing you had a buddy.
It’s 1974 me and buddy rode across country on a Suzuki 380 and a Kawasaki 900. Made it to Arizona and back. We camped out the entire time and together spent $400 on the trip. We hooked up with other motorcycles along the way. Fast forward the last six summers I have traveled with my girlfriend with ktm 500 and Honda trail 125 and a toy hauler to all the major parks in the west and eastern US
So many memories to be made. Life is too short. The only thing I can add is, early on I learned to carry tools, air pump, gas syphoning hose and jumper cables which I never got to use on my bike, but instead rescuing others to get them on their way.
Your story was just great. Enjoyed everything about the bikes and the fixes. Well done to you and your son. I wish the same for me one day soon. Thank you for the journey.
If your neutral light goes out on a Honda 900C there is a good chance that you can start it by finding neutral with your foot and starting as usual. I do it all the time. Great video!
When I was in my early 20's, (1984) 4 friends and I planned to ride from Ga. to Cali. on our bikes. My job would not give me unpaid time off so I quit, then , 1 by1 all my freinds backed out. So I went alone. My bike was a 1980 Harley Sporster with a 2.2 gallon tank. I had a ball! took all backroads, met tons of great people, saw awesome places. I was gone 1 month. Now, 40 years later, I'm addicted to taking long m/c trips with my family. I enjoyed your story but would advise- Never get in a hurry. see all you can while you can. Ride safe.
Great advice! Couldn't agree more. Life is short, slow down and enjoy it>>
Meet my buddy plan the same thing in 1983 and did it leaving in February in the snow from New York to Key West out to California. He wrote a 1978 yummy 650 and I rode a 1977 super glide that broke down daily. 😂. It took us about two months and absolutely was life-changing. I recommend it to everyone. we were 23 years old.
Yep life is very short
Good for you going out alone. I hate when I try to plan folks to come along then they female me or back out or complain. It seems hard but it's great to have people along but often then l they will threaten to blow trip for me but I make clear. I AM going! Love to have you along but I am going no matter what
In 1980, at the age of 24, I rode my 1966 BMW R50/2 to Oregon in 9 days, then took 5 months to tour America and return to NY. There is so much to see and experience in America. Complete strangers I met along the way took an interest in my travels, and many times I was invited to dinner or given a room for the night in exchange for sharing tales about my trip. I also learned that people who have the least to give will go out of their way to help others. I have lived my life trying to pay it forward. Thanks for stirring my memories. Bob
nice i had a 57 r60 bmw sold it 1979 when my wife became pregnant great bikes miss the 57 but I love my son
I've been riding since 1968. There's nothing like it. Two wheeled memories do last forever. Congrats on being friends. Good job!
I've done a few of these long trips, and it's the difficulties that make it memorable. You guys are so great to have started doing this while still so young. This video is excellent, and I'm betting there will be more trips like this in your future. I really think the same trip on new bikes would not have been as adventurous and fun.
Good times, guys!
I’m old and retired now, but many years ago did 2 long distance motorcycle rides, the longest being WI to LA on a Yamaha RD 400 2 stroke. Like you guys we didn’t have much money and rode what we had. Brought back memories, thanks for posting your story. One thing I remember saying back then was if we do this again it will be on back roads only, no interstates if we can help it. And no more than 250 miles per day.
Wow, I thought the world had gone to hell but you gave me a glimmer of hope for future generations with this wonder trip. Thanks from a 74 year old for renewing hope and memories of past rides in the 60s.
The memory of this trip will last your lifetime. I did a 26K mile ride in '17 covering 48 state rides on a 10 year old V-Star 650 at age 58. I did it solo but you got to share it with a friend. Perhaps you'll be able to recreate it with your kids someday.
Wow, that quite a journey solo. I'm 62, look forward to a trip one day. It WON'T be on my mt10 though.
I had one. Great bike I just wish they had a sixth gear.
My first bike was a v-star 650... not very powerful, but it'll take anything you throw at it!!
@@AngryD
Absolutely!!
26k miles in one trip? That's insane. Much respect
I don’t know why you say 2 idiots, this is something people dream of doing and never get the chance, you guys did it and it’s something you will remember forever, nice video
You two brought a tear to my eye. My dearest best friend and I also shared a journey of a lifetime same as you. When he passed away from cancer in 2000, that journeys memory helped us through his final journey in life. What great memories of youth and adventure you will have forever. Our journey happened in 1970 17 yr.'s old on Honda cb350's spring break traveling from Denver to SanDiago and back in 6 days $50 in our pockets a camera. Sleeping on the ground, heat, snow, rain, breakdowns, of course our inspiration was Easy Rider back then. Anyway, what a great story you two have told and THANKS for sharing it. You've inspired me to gather my few pics and tell my story to friends and family
I've spent about five of my seven decades riding motorcycles and oddly the trips I remember best are the ones that involved a breakdown or something that didn't go to plan. The kindness of strangers, both riders and non-riders will always be remembered. The road is always an adventure and sometimes in ways that you didn't expect but that only adds to the story. As I try to remember when I'm being played up by fate, the worse the situation is now, the better the story is later. Thanks for sharing your adventure and many more in future. T.
That's awesome. I rode from NW Oklahoma to Key West on a 2007 883 with a peanut tank. 100-120 miles between stops was about as far as I could ride but that also turned out to be about the perfect amount of riding time before we all wanted a break. That was about 10 years ago and I still think about that experience every day it was amazing.
I liked your story.....I did a cross the USA trip.....starting in my home Tempe AZ to Maine in the spring of 1978.....I was on my green 77 Kawasaki KZ650 with 2300 miles.....my best friends 76 Honda cb 750 with about 5k miles......mine was bought new at Kellys Kawasaki in Mesa.....Larry was bought from some guy in Phoenix who wife had a fit when he bought the bike.....both bike were stock....mine had case guards....thats it...and some highway pegs.....and a ugly rack for the back......I had at least 50 -55 pounds loaded with some toss over saddle bags....when we got back I had 14800 miles. other than many flats.....dead battery......Larry had cam problems....His friend joined in the fun in Jacksonville FL he rode a Suzuki 550 triple 2 stroke....which to my surprise was my fav bike of the bunch.....we swapped bikes often .....my bike was liked least but voted best looking......it was the end of the 2 stroke rode bikes but when i got back i found a new last year 75? Suzuki 500 twin titan....which was one of the best bikes i ever owned.....I was hit at 18k miles.....what i would give to get 2 stroke street bikes back!
Save a few ellipses for the rest of the human race.
1980's bikes were very reliable....once you got them back into shape again, they will go for a long time. Not idiots for choosing those rides. In my 20's did it on a '67 Triumph Bonneville ... which made it but still not sure how. It was a tired oil burner (quart a day by the time I was done, plugs cleaned up once in the morning and once at lunch) that needed everything tightened up every night when I started and needed completely rebuilt when I got back....but it was one sharp looking ride. Now, in my mid-sixties getting ready do it again on a 150cc Vespa. You guys aren't idiots, just joining the club.
Life is short, especially youth. However, moments like this may last forever. Never be too old to make more of them.🙂
Absolutely brilliant job with the video and ride fellas. As a young fella I did a lot of touring in the 80s and 90s using just 2 bikes a 1978 Suzuki GS550B and a 1975 Kawasaki Z900 here in Australia. Nowadays a degenerative bone disease means I can no longer ride much so watching videos like this although sad at times really takes me back to my youth. Anyway thanks so much for sharing it’s road trip memories that you’ll always remember. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Bros... this was like reading about the advertures of Lewis and Clark... FREAKING AWSOME JOURNALING!!
I took the wife on a tour around Cornwall in the in the UK this summer. We went on a 1974 Norton. I applaud you for taking old bikes, it makes it so much more fun! Great video, I loved it. BTW, I used to have a CB900 in the 80s, it was no better than yours. Thanks again.
Thank you for sharing, makes me think and start from the West Coast to the East Coast on my scooter Suzuki Burgman 400, the problem is I am 72 and will be a solo rider, can't hear very well without my hearing aids...and my broken English. God will decide if I will or will not. Beautiful America and God Bless our nation.
Well done fellas, at 51 years old and having had two back fusions I’m super envious of your youthfulness. I would have enjoyed going on a trip like this with my best friend. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Thank you for the video log of your long cross country. I had a few cross countries in the early 90s, none as long as yours, but mine were also eventful. I was 28 when my mother passed from cancer. Grieving, I rode from my rented bedroom in Miramar, San Diego to the Grand Canyon, a little over 500 miles, solo and back in 24 hours and obtained a iron-butt patch. I had a well worn 1982 Magna. I had only cash for gas, so no motels. I slept on the ground. It was early July and I roasted! My rear tire showed threads after the drive through the Mojave and I had to spend my food money on a rear tire. Later, I got pulled over by the police who thought I was a prison escapee! I realized going through the extreme heat of the desert, it's best to wear long sleeves and gloves for sun protection. I love hot tea, and I carried a thermos of the stuff, and sipped it on my breaks, even when it was 112 degrees out. I'm about to turn 60. Next year, I hope to ride with my 18 year old son on a motorcycle adventure.
I just turned 60 and started riding motorcycles when I was 8. Did you get a chance to ride with your son yet? If not, make sure you make it happen and good luck! Fellow rider.
Hey that was a great short film of an awesome feat considering what you guys were working with. Many people daydream about taking on a journey like that with a friend but never make it happen -you guys got moxie!!!!👍🏼
Enjoyed this story. I recall overcoming adversities as a young man on motorcycle adventures. Now, as an old man...I'd catch a plane home. As I told my children, have your adventures while you are young. These memories will be fun to recall and tell for the rest of your lives.
This is great. I rode a 81 Yamaha Maxim 650 I got for $300 from S. CA to Canada and the transmission started making noises in WA. It seized up soon after it crossed the border, I abandoned it and flew home ! Long trips really put a strain on already old parts for sure
Great adventure. Thanks for sharing it with us.
I started riding on trips like this in the early '60's. Been doing it ever since. Sometimes with friends, sometimes solo. The memories are worth the frustration. Don't let this be the only time you did this. Keep doing it as often as you can. At times, you'll swear you're never gonna do it again. But after it's over, you'll have great memories. And you'll meet people you never imagined existed.
I'd say the old Kawi was the hero of the trip, can't blame a blown tire on the bike. I ran into "the Christian Motorcycle Association" at a motoamerica race a couple years ago, talk about awesome folks. I didn't really want to carry around my $800 Arai all day and they gladly checked it in, even put it in it's own bag. All free of charge!
Man!!! What an awesome story. It's funny how we all strive to do that "thing"! Whatever it is. There are hundreds of examples. You just go do it. My little adventure was not nearly this epic. But my buddy and I took two old Goldwings, one was a '78 and one was an '82. We did a 2500 mile trip through the Dragon and North Carolina and North Alabama, and then back to Florida. Both bikes were rescues and I worked on them them whole way. But nevertheless it was an awesome trip. That was 10 years ago. Now we are in the last phase of our adventures as we are now in our 60's and 70's. But I feel one more adventure coming .... Probably going to tackle the TAT on adventure bikes next. But we are simply just slowing down. The wives have rolled their eyes at us for 40 years. Old scooter riders never die, they just keep just keep going! Awesome adventure you enjoyed. Congratulations, bro.
this brings back memories of me and the boys taking our hogs from Richmond to Sturgis…lots of nice ladies there…good times…
Great story and journey , thanks for sharing it , last time I did it was 2017 , East Bay to Maryland on a 1999 Sporster in August , HOT ! I'm 73 now & planning to do it long round trip style in a few years on a KLX 300 , Good Lord willin' & the proverbial crik don't rise to high , thank you for sharing your wonderful ride.........
You both did great. Just going across the USA is a blast. Ride on young ones🎅🏼🏍🇺🇸🦌🦬
This could have turned out quite bad, I think the next time you try a road trip like this you need to understand and prepare the bikes better and carry tools and spares with you. In my youth I did some epic stupid things on bikes riding all over the country on old British bikes but was always able to overcome adversity due to having a good grounding in motorcycle mechanics and having tools and spares with me. One time in 1977 when I was 16, while touring in Scotland (400 miles from home) and in the middle of nowhere, I had a valve spring suddenly break which jammed up and bent a pushrod on my BSA 500 Royal Star, this was fixed by the roadside in less than an hour with me removing the top valve spring retainer of the affected valve with a screwdriver with the head still in place on the engine and removing the pieces of broken outer spring and refitting everything with just the weak inner spring to close the valve, then beating the pushrod straight again with rocks, then re-assembling to find that the bike ran perfectly, although I had to keep the rpm down due to the weak valve spring, happy days..
As much as I like motorcycles, my car habit usually eats most of my funds, however many times I have dreamed of doing the same thing in a 70s car. My 72 Chevelle or 76 Chevy short bed step side. But with old American muscle, fuel would be the biggest restraint. I live about 30 minutes from Branson Missouri on the Arkansas border. So it's similar to the scenery in hot springs, and the lake roads that snake thru the Ozark mountains. But I also imagine throwing a small camper in the truck, or tents and such, just bringing my shelter along, camping along the way
A few months ago I was in the Sierra Nevada mountains with no cell service, I ran out of gas on my bike in the middle of nowhere my gas light appears to not work. Lucky I was going up in elevation the for along time past the last small town. I ended up turning back and coasting about 5 miles back to that small mountain town .
There was no gas stations for 15 miles.
I ended up talking to a residents and they had a lawn mower with gas in it. I cut open a 1 gallon milk jug and tapped it to my gas tank to use as a funnel and held the lawn mower upside down over my bike while cars where driving by looking at this freak show. I made it to the gas station and was so lucky I had ran out of gas where I did.
Wow, you'll remember this for a lifetime. Thanks so much for sharing the trip, it reminded me of my younger days when I rode around the US on my bikes. First a couple of Jap bikes and then on Harleys. We didn't have a video camera to carry around and film it all, so I'm stuck with just the memories. Videos like yours helps with the remembering. Thanks again.
In 1984 I rode my Kawasaki 750 Turbo from Norfolk VA while i was in the NAVY, to Spingfield MO. I had no issues on my trip. Today at 63, I own a 2020 Harley Davidson Road Glide Special which is the bike to own for comfort.
If You preferred riding off highway - try the Trans America Trail. My (1987 designed) KLR650 was even simpler than your 80s bikes!
something I learned from construction workers, wear long sleeves no matter how hot it is on your bike, save you from sunburn and help reduce dehydration
This vid popped up in my queue, I was intrigued at the title and also how short the video was for a coast to coast ride. However, I was very impressed with your story, your experiences, your bike improvisation / fixing skills and abilities, video editing and the rest. A great vid that beats the 101 episode yawn fests that other vloggers would do for such a monumental ride (which you did on clunkers!)….much respect ✊🏿 stay cool 😎 and ride safe!
Wonderful story, really. I enjoyed every aspect; the footage, your narration and of course friendship. Well done, well told.
I've taken some really long trips on my '77 Kawasaki KZ-1000, '78 Honda Goldwing and '86 Honda Goldwing without incident. The trick is to start out making short trips to sort out any problems before the long hauls.
I'm getting ready for a cross America trip this spring. Awesome hearing about your adventures. I've stopped to help many motorcycle riders in my local area, we have to stick together.
How was your cross country trip. did you make its happen? I'm planning one staring on March 1st 2025.
@@robmcguckin7605 yup did 6500 miles, across the country them down to the South then back across. Was epic fun. I saw so much, froze my toes in south Dakota, cooked my cajones in Georgia, swollen feet in Washington DC, dodged a tornado in Nebraska. Was awesome. I'm about to leave for a 9 day trip to Colorado next week. Somehow I keep missing that state on my trips. Where are you planning on going for your trip?
@@wyattblessing7078 Thats awesome man! My trip starts in NJ from home, traveling south to NC and Florida to visit friends then head west on Route 66 until San Diego. I'll store the bike at a friends garage until my 2nd leg which will be up the coast until Oregon and ultimately Alaska on the Dalton Highway 900 miles until the end of the road. :)
@@robmcguckin7605 that is epic. I'm jealous. I have been up the Cassiar Hwy and the AlCan. Been up the Dalton. I lived in Alaska for about 13 years. Be sure and go to the Moose's Tooth for pizza and beer in Anchorage. Your going to love that ride. I'm planning on doing it myself in about 2 years. Go see old friends.
@@wyattblessing7078 Don't be jealous yet my friend because right now, it's just a dream in the planning stage. :) Right now, I'm riding an older BMW R1100RS but for this trip am looking for either a GS, Africa Twin or maybe a Tenere. There is no way I'd attempt the Dalton HWY on anything other than an adventure bike. Mooses Tooth, I will add to the list, sounds like a great place!
Major kudos to you both for continuing on despite the setbacks along the way and maintaining your sanity. Much love to all the kind folks that stopped and helped you as well that is what we need more of in these modern times.
Two friends and I rode from Maryland to the Oregon coast and back the end of June - early July. I was riding my '90 Moto Guzzi California III and my friends were on a '71 Moto Guzzi 750 Ambassador and '73 Moto Guzzi 850 Eldorado. All three bikes were well prepared before the trip. We were carrying some spare parts, tire irons, spare tubes and most importantly - a small electric air pump. Zero breakdowns, just a leaky petcock which was tightened and one fouled plug on my Cal III. 6650 miles. That's one item checked off my "bucket list".
Great great video. I too in 1973 traveled across the country on a Suzuki 500 two stroke. Had a great time. I still ride but now shorter trips.
Was that ITF Taekwondo I saw??
Ah , memories that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Never ride summer sun bare skinned. Ride desert at night. Need earplugs if riding without helmet. Once had a cb900 myself. You guys will always have these memories. You can always make new friends. But you can't make new old friends.
A journey you’ll always remember! Thanks for sharing it.
Wow. Great adventure. Very daring with those bikes but your expertise was gold to keep them going. Thanks.
I really enjoyed the vid. Cheers from New Zealand
I have always ridden old bikes. My primary ride today is a 1987 GL1200 with 100,000 miles on it. When I'm in the states I ride it every day and make a cross country trip every other year.
Good for you guys. That is a trip you will always remember. There are a lot of really good people out there who will help folks who need it.
GREAT STORY; NICE VIEW AND THE HUMBLE WAY YOU DESCRIBED , Best Regards From Germany !
Loved the video, it brings back many memories of traveling on my 1980 CB900C. Two big difference's though, the bikes were still new(er) so were a tad bit more reliable and we slept on the ground next to the bikes! haha.....
My girlfriend (now wife) and I rode from Van Nuys, CA to Fort Lauderdale, FL on a CB500 turbo, 35 years ago. We did about 400 miles per day. No breakdowns at all. A wonderful trip.
I really enjoyed this terrific adventure guys. thanks for the over dub, good job!
You guys are awesome. Thank you for sharing your journey. I have to point out, as a Bay Area native, that you missed riding the must-ride highway 1 along the coast of California but I suspect it might have been a safer choice given the state of your bikes.
It’s the unplanned hiccups that adds to the story. Great video .
Before a longer trip, it is normal to do an overhaul, especially on some old motorcycles. What you said at the end of the video intrigued me and made me write. Motorcycles from the 80s and 90s are very durable and reliable, but before a long trip any motorcycle needs some preparation! I wondered how many times the Honda broke down, which in my opinion is among the best motorcycles!
If you guys did this trip in July, you're crazy. I live about 25 miles southeast of Phoenix, and I don't ride in the daytime for about 5 months out of the year. Temperatures are usually around 110-115 degrees, and that is just plain dangerous. You can dress for cold, there is nothing you can do about heat, except drive an air conditioned car, which is what I do all summer.
There's another way to ride in the summer: stay north.
Awesome journey, and great filming. Yes, a new low mile bike is the only way to go cross country, I do it on a Goldwing. I'm spoiled and nowhere as tough and gutsy as you guys! Well done!!! God bless you, get some new bikes you can stretch out on and keep on riding!
Man times change. Your cross country romp alot nicer than I ever saw. Set camp basically where ever we hit and didn't feel like going again. Many times right on the side of highway. Motels came in when a shower was a dream. Many great meals at some of least known cafes helped out my belt line. Worst time ever was loosing a chain on my Triumph heading up to Sturgis.
Reminds me of Trevor Ware's trip. If you haven't read about it, look it up. He and his friend took a CB550 and I think a CB900 from Arkansas to California. He went by KernCountyKid and had a blog on it. Trevor, unfortunately, got into an accident and became handicapped, but his story is still a great one and quite inspirational
Age 70, took a 1980 Kawasaki 1000 from WA to Sturgis (for the Party) and on to Chicago to catch Route 66. Rode 66 all the way to Santa Monica and the did the Pacific Coast Highway back to WA. It took about 8 weeks to cover all the miles (7000) and all the kitschy tourist attractions that made the Mother Road famous.
Tips: 2 liters camelback (fill with ice every morning)
Long sleeve tee shirts (at least 2)
Metric sockets and wrenches (Harbor Freight fine)
Black tape and zip ties
Great story boys. Brought back 50 years of trip memories to this old bike bum.
👍 You guys have Grit!! Really enjoyed the ride, thank you..👍
Cool story while I was drinking my coffee this morning. Thanks for sharing.
awesome guys you met those challenges like a BOSS you will always remember this trip
This is excactly the sort of thing I've been planning to do
I put 20,000+ miles on a 1981 Suzuki Gs-650L during just over 1 year of commuting from June of 2022 to September 2023, ended up having a problem with the CDI ignition system and decided to spring for a more long-distance style bike to get closer to my goal of touring America on a bike.
Ended up getting a 1986 Honda Goldwing 1200, it was one heck of a learning curve to work on compared to my normal trade of Suzuki (various Gs and GT series) and Yamaha (Virago and Vstar), but I've been gradually running/riding and working closer to my goal of cross-country travel with her.
A trip you’ll never forget. One of my shortest, yet memorable trips was from Southern Spain to Madrid on a cold January 7th 1993. In the military and shipped my bike over there. I’m thinking it was around a 400 mile trip but with the cold, I was stopping around every 30-45 minutes. 5 layers of cold riding gear but the cold just beat through it with no windscreen of that KZ-700. Ended up taking over 13 hours as I got a late start because of the timing of the bike being unloaded off the ship. And the cables were rusted and spent almost two hours freeing them up and jump starting the dead battery. Someone had turned on the ignition key while the bike was being transported. Hmm. But it was a trip I’ll never forget. Temperature was in the mid to low 20s when the Sun went down. It was crazy!
Great story , very fortunate one of you had some mechanical knowledge.
I've done many motorcycle trips and had my share of problems on bike trips.
Can't say I really liked being a mechanic all my life but it sure saved me many times. Like the old saying, Adapt and improvise. Key thing with motorcycle trips is PREPARATION.
One of the interesting things of going to motorcycle rallies when a bunch of old guys are sitting around at night telling stories of there travels and problems they encountered.
Bravo, for the footage you filmed and the editing. Excellent level. Added superb narration makes this an A+ plus moto production. I too have do a similar trip in the 80’s so I totally get it. Cheers. Ride safe.
That was really ace, you appears in my list thing and I didn't expect to watch much but stopped work and watched the whole thing.
Well done for making this journey and thank you for sharing it.
Really enjoyed your video guys. I've been fortunate enough to have had many trips in my 60 years. Hopefully many more. But it's is way cool seeing what you two did. Those memories will be some of the most fond ones you will ever have. Keep making them. Ride on and keep the shiny side up.
I am reminded of the popular book of the late 70s , 'The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance'.
Nice video and what a memorable trip! After 43 years of riding and quite a bit of travelling my experience is ~ I use a very reliable/comfortable/fuel efficient motorcycle (mine is cb500x 71 mpg), travel back-roads ONLY, stop often for breaks (stay hydrated), don't set time/destination goals at all if possible (no pre-booking rooms or campgrounds), if I do have a final destination goal allow 2 to 3 days travel for what would normally take 1 day in a car on the interstate, start considering where I want to stop for the day at lunch time (I try to never exceed 6 to 8 hours travel including breaks), in the summer mountainous areas stay cooler (ideal), if I want to travel every day I get a room of some sort otherwise camping is way too much work unless I plan to stay at a campground for several days, make sure I do all maintenance pre-trip (oil, brakes/tires etc.), stop for many pics so I have photos of all the amazing scenery. That's how I fly @ #nobodycares!
Agree completely. Back roads all the way. Even high-powered bikes are no fun on interstates. I rode a BSA through Europe in the early 70's. Tried the autobahn once and that was that.
Just completed a mini tour along south coast of England & up through Wales on a Yamaha FJR1300 😁, did do a single motorway (interstate highway). It was all 'A class', 'B class', & some of the roads were tarmac with grass growing up the centre. Still completed 1500 miles in a week though😁. CA t wait till next spring to go on tour again 😎😁😁🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧
@@stephenwilliams6103 I was about to pull the trigger on a FJR 1300 a few weeks ago but someone got there 1st. Great bikes!
That was a awesome video… I’m sure it’s something to remember… I know a guy that was in the navy ..I think he was in San Diego … he got out of the navy so he was coming home… he bought a little Honda 350 twin and put his stuff on it and rode all the way to rising fawn Georgia… I bet that was a ride to remember.. but that was in somewhere around 1974.. less people driving with their cell phones out and other crazy stuff… I enjoyed the video guys… thanks…
I love this video! It makes my heart happy that you took this trip. And your ability to overcome the numerous obstacles was impressive. Good for you two! Keep adventuring.
I crossed the Canada on a 1974 Honda CB750 in 1976. Among the 4 bikes that I've ridden coast to coast was my 2000 Concours. Almost nothing changed over the years on the Gen 1 Connies except the colour and the star spring. I'm still riding. And still crossing the country.
"Food is food." LOL as a fellow rider, I can relate. A very unique video perspective. Well done!
Nicely done you two! Great story-telling. The memories made will no doubt be enhanced thanks to those older bikes misbehaving. Thanks!
You will NEVER forget this trip.
Thank you!😀 I loved your motorcycle adventure across America. Excellent story telling
and video.👍 🏍
Why cant I have friends like you? We used to do alot of this but my friends got old, married or had kids. Plenty of break downs and it was a good thing I was mechanically inclined. I had to hotwire a few, patch, plug adjust the chain but man you guys had a challenge. Get yourself a "Guardian Bell". It might help :)
Great journey and great storytelling. Would love to see what you could do on a longer journey with a few GoPros.
It’s the buckets of optimism that is great when we’re young, there’s a lot of can do because we don’t think about the what ifs! Whereas as we get older we can think of too many things that might block our ideas!
You’re definitely not idiots, but great young men on an adventure…. Good on you and I thoroughly enjoyed your story.
If you had stop at Springfield MO you could have gone to the original BassPro and visited the gun and archery museum
That Honda engine, no matter in 750, 900, or 1100 cc form, always has the stator and regulator rectifier go bad. I had one of these for years, and it would fail every 6 months or so. I don't think Honda still has fixed this issue with its other engines. What a shame.
It seems counter-intuitive, but you have to cover up in the desert or in heat in general. You lose fluids quickly even in humid conditions. I learned that the hard way…Good vid. I enjoyed it a lot. Do it again before time slips away. You always think you have plenty of time, until you don’t.
That is a great story! Keep on riding!
That was very nicely done! I bought a Virago 250 (its fast) and have thought a lot about doing what you did. Thanks for the good and the bad. Great vid!
Sorry but a Virago 250 is not fast and if you plan on taking it across the United States, you may want to rethink it.
THE TITLE ; Hahahaha .
Got my first bike 40 years ago and my mom asked me if I wanted to go cross country . I told her no way ! She asked why . I told her while it is tempting I don't want to sleep on the side of the road .
Kudos to you ! Good thing you had a buddy.
It’s 1974 me and buddy rode across country on a Suzuki 380 and a Kawasaki 900. Made it to Arizona and back. We camped out the entire time and together spent $400 on the trip. We hooked up with other motorcycles along the way. Fast forward the last six summers I have traveled with my girlfriend with ktm 500 and Honda trail 125 and a toy hauler to all the major parks in the west and eastern US
Great video. Did also a bunch of big trips here in Europe in the last 25 years. Keep on riding guy's!
Well done, gentlemen. Cheers to a great trip! I hope you enjoyed Hwy 25 from King City.....that's my backyard!
bro lol that cb900 was a pain in the ass xD that concourse held yall down though!
So many memories to be made. Life is too short. The only thing I can add is, early on I learned to carry tools, air pump, gas syphoning hose and jumper cables which I never got to use on my bike, but instead rescuing others to get them on their way.
Your story was just great. Enjoyed everything about the bikes and the fixes. Well done to you and your son. I wish the same for me one day soon. Thank you for the journey.
Epic trip guys. That is what MC riding is all about. Memory of a life time.
If your neutral light goes out on a Honda 900C there is a good chance that you can start it by finding neutral with your foot and starting as usual. I do it all the time. Great video!
Sounds like you guys learned a lot of lessons the hard way. Love it! Thanks for sharing.
I enjoyed this video. Thanks for making and sharing it.
Check out "C90 Adventures"... Similar optimism, but world wide, mostly on a 90cc scooter....