This is by far the most informative video I’ve seen on how to take an adv bike on an adventure. I have a lot more confidence to try it now I’m watching your videos. Great job!
Good day to you! I am a senior rider on HONDA Cross Cub from Japan. I am enjoying camping,touring and upload video. This is so nice adventure video! Awesome! Have a nice day my friend!
Sterling - I really appreciate your recordings of your 6000mi trip. I just bought a BMW R1150GS last Nov. It went straight into storage when I got home with it as I live in Iowa. Its my 4th BMW. I appreciated seeing how you travel on your motorcycle and the equipment you use. Its always a good thing to learn from others who have developed a technique. And you have definitely put a lot of thinking and effort into your motorcycle travels. They were some of the best TH-cam Videos I've seen for me. I love motorcycling. I've ridden somewhere around 350,000 miles since my first BMW, a 1976 R60 I put about 175,000 miles on, mostly driving to work. Now I'm retired and about 70 years old but I have time to go places and your videos give me a lot of inspiration and practical know how. Many Thanks!
There are several adventure motorcycle enthusiasts that share their trips and advice on TH-cam, and all of them do a very good job, but nobody does it better than Sterling Noren. Thank you Sterling for inspiring me to discard my blinders and see the trail beyond my comfort zone.
Thank you so very much for this detailed but concise itemization and justification for these trips. I’m 76. I do this. When I was your age I did the camping you do. As I got older and richer I drifted toward campgrounds, then beds and breakfasts. Although I always carried the tent and bag (but no longer cooking gear (restaurants)). Last year I was gone for five months in Morocco, Spain, Portugal, France, Ireland, Scotland, England, Isle of Man. In April I’m headed out for six months around the US and Canada. I will camp out a lot. But at campgrounds mostly because for me meeting people is one of the riches (can be the richest…a dear friend I met in a 1.5 hour traffic jam just north of Marathon on the way to Key West). A dear friend I met when she picked me up as I was hitchhiking through Connemara, Ireland, in 1975. I saw her last summer, on my bike, in Paris, where she lives, which no longer allows motorcycles to park free (female mayor). And which is not a fun place to ride a motorcycle. For normal people. Anyway, thanks for this video. Esp the pants. I have the Latitude top and bottom. I wear the pants in Europe and Morocco because I’m doing more serious roads and tracks. I did not want to wear them this year in the USA. First, I’m 76. If you need to take a leak when you’re 76, you don’t have all day and the Latitude pants have no fly. And they don’t like to get pushed down over adventure boots. I was thinking of going with the Latitude coat and armored jeans (I have to buy a pair. I have the Dainese air pants for local riding.). I don’t want to take the Dainese pants because they are too limited. I cannot comfortably have them as my general purpose pants. But then I think the most prudent thing to do is use the Latitude pants because they are so much more protective. But I refuse to wear the clunky dirt boots. Then I feel nervous about this decision and ponder it some more. For me a lot depends on how I will drive. If I drive aggressively (with respect to the terrain-not other motorists) the risk reward cost heads toward the better protection. I’m trying to talk myself into not leaning 40 degrees and loading not more than .8 G. I don’t think I can keep that promise. So I bought a humongous Touratech top case. I have that on my T700 I keep in France and now I’ll have it on my American GS Adv 1200. The two perfect bikes for the countries they ride in.
Well looks like everyone wants to see the South America series, myself included. Great follow up video, might need to pick up one of those tables and that MotoTech tool thing too. Stay well.
If you want a way, to help remove the fire black from your cooking ware, try this. Before leaving home, rub the areas that the fire will touch with liquid Dawn dish soap. Let it dry, then go camping. When you get home, wash the black areas, and most, if not all the black will come off. By the way, a cheap piece of copper tubing, and a length of clear plastic hose (from the hardware store), also makes a good fire blower.
As a hammock camper I highly suggest a quality under quilt. It gets hung under the hammock and insulates your body from below. I regularly camp in -10 to 15F in the winter with my cold weather setup and wouldn't go back to the ground unless there was no chance of my camping spots having any trees or other way to hang my hammock.
Long time hiker and even longer biker here. Loosing the sleeping beg and switching to a top quilt and under quilt for the hammock; it will change your life. Jacks'R'Better makes my favorite but their are many options. Also the quilts and a neoair uberlite sleeping pad for when you have to sleep in a tent are probably lighter and pack smaller than 90% of the sleeping bags out there.
Impressive, comprehensive and informative review. For as simple as the "3 pair of clothes for 6 days of wearing" idea is, it's brilliant. Your cookwear selection is very helpful, too (cutting board/plate/saucer; knife selection, etc).
I like to use the cedar planks. They are cheap, easy to find, weigh nothing, you can soak in water and get them close to a fire, they give a nice taste to fish, make a nice cutting board..etc whatever, and you can use them in the morning as kindling/ fire starter. I also take in the inner boot liners out of my ski boots, and take those with me. The weight is negligible, but in some oversized crocs at night, they keep my feet warm without having to tromp around camp in riding boots, or sandles, or in the tent.
Fist off thank you for answering all the questions I had about your equipment. I noticed at the beginning of some of your videos the disclaimer "includes paid promotions" yet I never saw what I typically would consider an advertisement for a product. The items were showcased so seamlessly. Bravo! Now the one thing I would love and perhaps other people would also, is a detailed rundown of the roads you took. All of the road names and numbers on your route. Thank you and bravo for an incredible series! I look forward to watching more or your trip videos.
It was sponsored by Touratech so that's why it includes the "paid promotion" disclaimer. As for the roads, I did my best to label and describe many of the actual roads that I took, but I think anyone could do a similar ride with a little planning and preparation. I made up a lot of the route as I went along, based on the weather and other factors, and I don't think the actually roads I took are that important. There are so many good roads out there!
Thanks wished I had known you on my motorbike trip down through the USA as I stopped over in Bisbee 2018 ( Grand Hotel ) for one night down to Houston from Canada / back to U.K.
I think the best way to describe my feeling is the word “inspiring”. I really appreciated the didactic and generous way with which you share your findings and the gear arguments. Very well done.
lol those "BMW Straps" I used to be able to get them by the handful for free out of the bin when I swore off bungies. Last time I checked a shop wanted 5 bucks per. any rate, there are lots of options elsewhere. They are great for securing all sorts of things
Thank you, Sterling. For ALL your videos. This 30 day series has changed a lot for my future plans and dreams. I actually have an uncle and aunt in Bisbee and Tuscon where they run a Macular Degeneration clinic. I need to come see them, stay at your hotel, and venture forth to some of the wonderful places you have introduced us all to. I especially liked the open itinerary of the trip. It would be better I think than pushing hard with others to fulfill a preplanned route. (Although that is fun too in a different way) my best riding buddy and our group have faded some... I can't imagine not riding since I've literally ridden on 2 wheels on the streets since a family issue put me on a moped to the 7th grade and beyond. My area in Northwest Arkansas is Blessed with many dozens of awesome rides in a 3 hour reach. Yesterday, I spent 6 hours out and 5 on the bike and felt I could easily have done a few more hours on another loop had I the time. My next challenge is going to be crossing the "empty circle of nothingness" just outside my area of good riding. I've been out west a few times...riding thru Kansas (or Nebraska), even most of South Dakota, or going out thru Amarillo...a lot of empty, not too interesting riding is hard. When I did it before we stopped on short days and hotels with my wife (when she rode with me years back) Now I just want to "get across" those places to get to some great places on my list. Next, I'm going to see what 8-9, even 10 hours on the bike would feel like when I'm camping...and in the summer heat, and getting up and feeling good enough to do it again and still enjoy the trip and the sights...at 54 now and beyond. I feel like the only way I want to go see my (large) bucket list of places is on my motorcycle...and by camping...and doing it solo. When I was in the Army I saw a lot of foreign countries solo...I like the freedom of just making it up as I go. Some of the trips will require a few weeks at least. In time, I will have the time to do that... for now a few 2-3 day trips this summer will have to suffice. Also, i've made a few changes to my kit based on watching your videos as well - again thank you. Your talent and style of peaceful, informative, and simple joy resonates they your work. We are all Blessed to indulge.
Thanks I enjoyed the ride along. Yes the South America trip sounds like a good ride along series. Time to get 2017 Ural ready for my trip. Stay healthy and safe out there. 👍😁
If you post the South America trip it would be great! Glad you had the opportunity to roll like that. I use soft pans and waterproof bags also. As you say, they are dedicated to those only needed sometime things yet available. I am a bigger guy and the biggest thing I carry is a large tent. It also is great for those extended stay in the tent with weather, not feeling well, need more sleep. etc.. I like that you always pack a warmer than needed because it always gets colder than we think! Anyway, great vid. Looking forward to more my friend. Take care and be safe in your travels.
I have absolutely loved watching this trip through your eyes my Friend, I would love to see the South American trip. I am intrigued by your video/camera set up and how you store/edit videos for longer journeys though. Thank you again
Enjoying this video and have enjoyed several of your others. I like diners in the am after an hour or two of riding when I'm solo traveling around the US and Canada and find I can eat yogurt, potato salad, Ritzbitz, an orange, Planters Trail Mix etc for dinner at sunset after my tent is set up. Stove for tea first thing in the am. Fill gas tank late in every day so I can ride for hours early early in the am when stations aren't open yet or are far away. I carry cheap flip flops for showers and liking NB Minimus foldable sneakers for hikes, even did 5 mi on Mt. Washington NH this summer. I enjoy mixing in staying with relatives that live in "fly over" locales during my travels.
Thanks! I also like diners and pretty much stopped at one every day for lunch on my solo ride. I don't want to cook or prepare food at lunchtime and appreciate the interaction with other people during the day. For me, that worked really well on my solo ride.
I love everything about the Beer. I've blown 2 or 3 canteens/flasks/canteens from heavy plastic to aluminum, and messed up the entire contents of my pannier. But everything else is helfpul.
I don’t carry as much as you but it looks like you eat better. I also have a BMW 1200GS with similar luggage. I’m constantly downsizing and rethinking my gear. I use to end the day with a couple of beers but it’s a hassle to pack and keep cold. I rode a KTM 690 to South America, I never had hard liquor before but took some gin with me. I ran out in Mexico and found you can buy tequila anywhere south of the border so I switched. I kept it in a metal flask and it worked perfectly. I made it all the way to Ushuaia Argentina, a trip of a lifetime but did experience some issues. When I got home I took the BMW to Prudhoe Bay, the next year I went to Inuvik then the following year to Tuktoyaktuk. I use a 3 man tent that’s nice because I can leave all my gear inside. My camping is still evolving after all these years. My channel is BlackdogADV, maybe I should make a vide on how I camp and eat off the bike. Anyway, you did a nice video, now do one on your cameras and show how you make and edit them. Ron
It's amazing how much you appreciate a chair and a little table at a camp site after a long day of riding. That little bit of comfort/convenience goes a long way. Also, good sleep is super important on a longer camping trip. I will sacrifice size/weight for a good night's sleep. A good backpacking cot or a thick inflatable mattress can make all the difference. If you are traveling one up then you will have the space and never notice the 5 extras pounds on the bike.
I binge watched this whole series. That’s an awesome lifestyle and I hope to replicate on a smaller scale one day. Fantastic job and thank you for sharing!
+1 As the early inmate noted..."Hell YEA "...we want to see more more more. Please post your South America footage. Wow! Noticed your subscribers jumped 2X to 20.5K . Awesomeness ! We're all vicariously living through your lens and fabulous trips . No bear spray ? Going up through grizzly country in WY and MT, I usually carry a small canister. Thanks for sharing. Kam
Thanks! Been great watching. Try an underquilt for your hammock. Enlightened equipment or hammock gear. The underquilt compresses very well and will keep you super warm. And please post the South America videos!
Klim Latitude makes an excellent Gortex pant that goes with that Jacket. Too. You may know that. Good stuff here. Thank you for posting. Hate hearing the GS has issues. Ride safe and often.
I got the titanium micro folding firebox when he sought support to get it made. Tiny does a great job and great backup to gas but also a safe nice fire and heat source if all you want is a smore...
Great detailed report, I like that. Some things I find a little bit bulky but I admit also having some other "unnecessary" stuff I won't ever miss again on my trips
that was awesome. very informative. been wanting to go away from home for a weekend, or more, and not pay for a motel room. the clothes, cooking gear, how to pack it all. going to use this as a guide for future reference. thanks for explaining everything.
Thank you Sterling. I recently discovered your channel via @LivingOffTheSlab and I've already learned a lot from you about camera gear, setup and filming. I love the hydro flask for beer tip and just ordered the mini tongs from this video. I look forward to watching more of your channel and hope to one day make it to the Jonquil Motel.
Excellent video, many thanks! I have ridden thousands of miles but never camped so this helps me tremulously. As a side note, I lost my phone in CO one time when the ram mount (you show) broke and they both hit the road at a high speed. Don’t trust that thing and bring a spare phone lol!
I would suggest getting an underquilt for your hammock. They insulate and keep your very warm if you're hammock camping. I have a One Tigris brand and they work very well.
Definitely want to see your South American trip. Next time you are in Northern Colorado I would definitely love to meet you. Met Eva already at International Motorcycle Show in Denver but bring her along.
We watched the entire series on your up and down trip across the US. Excellent and enjoyed it all. We would love to see your South America trip. Thank you for your efforts.
I would love to see that trip,also as an outdoorsman myself I would like to suggest a simple 100% wool blanket for camping. They are fire resistant and when fully soaked, still maintain about 80% of their insulation value. On your hammock, if you pin or tie one wool blanket to the bottom side it will stop the heat loss and help you sleep like a baby.
Great ideas Sterling. Thanks for taking the time to set all that up and videoing it. Like everyone else, enjoyed your trip and agree that the Sth.American trip would be great to watch. Merry xmas to you and your family
I rode a Honda CH250 scooter with all my backpacking gear and camped off the scooter... A lot let stuff and luxuries than what he caries and i was fine for the few nights out camping alone in middle of nowhere.
Ditto..."Hell YEA we wanna see your South America ride". Sterling, love your videos. I am retired in Ecuador and the V-strom is now completely set up to begin touring/camping in South America. Would love to see your videos of Expedition 65. I'm sure it would provide excellent insight.
Thank you for the time and effort to share the gear you use. It's always good to see what others pack. I pack less, but my bike is smaller and I take shorter trips. I mostly pack my ultralight hiking and camping equipment, plus motorcycle tools.
Great walkthrough! So cool that you are passing along what works for you through trial and error. Couple lessons learned for me...I use my Pannier as a table with a folding top. Tents -only have a Kelty 3 person tent for my trips...for the minimal increase in bag weight/size, having a tent to house more than just me comes in super handy. Ice - fashioned a Yeti half gallon jug to mount to the pannier. Under right conditions can retain ice for several days. Have to plug the Helinox Chair 1 camping chair. Expensive but soooo worth it. I definitely need to add a hammock after watching your series. Way to go Sterling!
Sea to summit “red sleeping bag liner- the extra long version! - great option as a light “blanket”“ stretchy - which is a real bonus and includes a tension cord at top to adjust tightness around Chest / shoulders- packs down to next to nothing Ignore many reviews- they work - field tested for years - too many use as not intended AKA no sleep pad , cheap sleeping bag Arctic temps and hence, over rely on this bag liner
Just watched the entire series in 2 days. Just fantastic. Thank you so much for sharing your journey. I definitely learned a few things and really appreciated your explaining your gear and how you pack it. Please do more!
iclimb has some cheaper compact tables (mini, ultralight, extendable). The extendable one packs small and gives you coffee table height. But their ultralight compact mini beach is similar to the GSI. They also carry a few cots.
Another great video. I watched all the videos from your recent 30 day trip and enjoyed each and every one. My vote is heck yes I want to see your South America trip! Thank you for your service to the ADV community!
Hi Sterling, we followed along on every episode and thoroughly enjoyed the ride! Thanks for much for taking us all along :) Please share the South America trip I'd love to see it. Stay Cool & Stay Safe !!! -Ray
Enjoyed the series - thanks for putting it together! Sister used to live in Red Lodge, loved driving the Bear Tooth pass and the Glacier area. Just picked up a DRZ - enjoy riding north Phoenix area. Very well done video!
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Website for this video: www.norenfilms.com/videos/favorite-motorcycle-camping-gear/
Noren, please share the south-American trip as well. I would love to see it!
south georgia nice place ..
Hell YEA we wanna see your South America ride! Keep it up Sterling!
Duh! Post it!
This is by far the most informative video I’ve seen on how to take an adv bike on an adventure. I have a lot more confidence to try it now I’m watching your videos. Great job!
I want to watch the south America series for sure!
Good day to you!
I am a senior rider on HONDA Cross Cub from Japan.
I am enjoying camping,touring and upload video.
This is so nice adventure video!
Awesome!
Have a nice day my friend!
Sterling - I really appreciate your recordings of your 6000mi trip. I just bought a BMW R1150GS last Nov. It went straight into storage when I got home with it as I live in Iowa. Its my 4th BMW. I appreciated seeing how you travel on your motorcycle and the equipment you use. Its always a good thing to learn from others who have developed a technique. And you have definitely put a lot of thinking and effort into your motorcycle travels. They were some of the best TH-cam Videos I've seen for me. I love motorcycling. I've ridden somewhere around 350,000 miles since my first BMW, a 1976 R60 I put about 175,000 miles on, mostly driving to work. Now I'm retired and about 70 years old but I have time to go places and your videos give me a lot of inspiration and practical know how. Many Thanks!
Absolutely, please share the South American trip!
I did! It’s on the channel - Expedition 65
Really enjoy what you do! Thank you.
There are several adventure motorcycle enthusiasts that share their trips and advice on TH-cam, and all of them do a very good job, but nobody does it better than Sterling Noren. Thank you Sterling for inspiring me to discard my blinders and see the trail beyond my comfort zone.
Thanks for that!
Totally agree
Too much stuff for me, I would probably lose half of it
Hi Noren, Really enjoyed the series. would love to see the south America trip.
That would be a Yes Please for the South American series 👍👍
Carrying a very light weight backpack is genius for last minute shopping before hitting camp. Thank you.
@Buck Rogers I completely agree, you always have to pack some 'space to carry stuff'
Nice run down of all the gear.
Really enjoyed this last Solo series so yes, please share the South America trip 👍🏻
How amazing.. Motorbike and freedom. Don't need anything else. Stay safe brother
I built my whole camp kitchen around this series of videos!!! Absolutely STOKED!!! I love cooking in the backcountry!!!
Thank You Sterling!!!!
🏍🤙🍻
Right on! I hope you have some great camping adventures ahead of you!
Amazing what can be packed and carried. I definitely saved this video for reference
Thank you so very much for this detailed but concise itemization and justification for these trips. I’m 76. I do this. When I was your age I did the camping you do. As I got older and richer I drifted toward campgrounds, then beds and breakfasts. Although I always carried the tent and bag (but no longer cooking gear (restaurants)). Last year I was gone for five months in Morocco, Spain, Portugal, France, Ireland, Scotland, England, Isle of Man. In April I’m headed out for six months around the US and Canada. I will camp out a lot. But at campgrounds mostly because for me meeting people is one of the riches (can be the richest…a dear friend I met in a 1.5 hour traffic jam just north of Marathon on the way to Key West). A dear friend I met when she picked me up as I was hitchhiking through Connemara, Ireland, in 1975. I saw her last summer, on my bike, in Paris, where she lives, which no longer allows motorcycles to park free (female mayor). And which is not a fun place to ride a motorcycle. For normal people. Anyway, thanks for this video. Esp the pants. I have the Latitude top and bottom. I wear the pants in Europe and Morocco because I’m doing more serious roads and tracks. I did not want to wear them this year in the USA. First, I’m 76. If you need to take a leak when you’re 76, you don’t have all day and the Latitude pants have no fly. And they don’t like to get pushed down over adventure boots. I was thinking of going with the Latitude coat and armored jeans (I have to buy a pair. I have the Dainese air pants for local riding.). I don’t want to take the Dainese pants because they are too limited. I cannot comfortably have them as my general purpose pants. But then I think the most prudent thing to do is use the Latitude pants because they are so much more protective. But I refuse to wear the clunky dirt boots. Then I feel nervous about this decision and ponder it some more. For me a lot depends on how I will drive. If I drive aggressively (with respect to the terrain-not other motorists) the risk reward cost heads toward the better protection. I’m trying to talk myself into not leaning 40 degrees and loading not more than .8 G. I don’t think I can keep that promise. So I bought a humongous Touratech top case. I have that on my T700 I keep in France and now I’ll have it on my American GS Adv 1200. The two perfect bikes for the countries they ride in.
Well looks like everyone wants to see the South America series, myself included. Great follow up video, might need to pick up one of those tables and that MotoTech tool thing too. Stay well.
Yes, would love to see the South American trip.
More content PLEASE! Miss seeing your face and hearing your voice as I mill around the garage.
If you want a way, to help remove the fire black from your cooking ware, try this. Before leaving home, rub the areas that the fire will touch with liquid Dawn dish soap. Let it dry, then go camping. When you get home, wash the black areas, and most, if not all the black will come off. By the way, a cheap piece of copper tubing, and a length of clear plastic hose (from the hardware store), also makes a good fire blower.
South America tour...YES PLEASE!!!
We enjoyed our stay at your lovely Bisbee Hotel, The Jonquil. It was great speaking with you about bikes and touring.
Of course we want to see the South American trip!!!!
Yes, please share your South America ride!
As a hammock camper I highly suggest a quality under quilt. It gets hung under the hammock and insulates your body from below. I regularly camp in -10 to 15F in the winter with my cold weather setup and wouldn't go back to the ground unless there was no chance of my camping spots having any trees or other way to hang my hammock.
Long time hiker and even longer biker here.
Loosing the sleeping beg and switching to a top quilt and under quilt for the hammock; it will change your life. Jacks'R'Better makes my favorite but their are many options.
Also the quilts and a neoair uberlite sleeping pad for when you have to sleep in a tent are probably lighter and pack smaller than 90% of the sleeping bags out there.
Yes on the South America tour.
Impressive, comprehensive and informative review. For as simple as the "3 pair of clothes for 6 days of wearing" idea is, it's brilliant. Your cookwear selection is very helpful, too (cutting board/plate/saucer; knife selection, etc).
Agreed on the firebox! So versatile. You can even configure it to accommodate solid fuels or trangia burners when needed.
I like to use the cedar planks. They are cheap, easy to find, weigh nothing, you can soak in water and get them close to a fire, they give a nice taste to fish, make a nice cutting board..etc whatever, and you can use them in the morning as kindling/ fire starter. I also take in the inner boot liners out of my ski boots, and take those with me. The weight is negligible, but in some oversized crocs at night, they keep my feet warm without having to tromp around camp in riding boots, or sandles, or in the tent.
In 2021, I took a 4800 mile ride out west, inspired by Sterling. Thank you, Sterling!
65 day tour of South America. Do we want to see that? No. We MUST see that. Share please! That sounds epic!
Thank you Sterling. You’re very passionate about motorcycle and riding and you’re a very giving person. I hope we can meet someday.
This video series has been excellent. This gear review has been important to so many viewers. Thanks for all that you do with your talents, Sterling.
Fist off thank you for answering all the questions I had about your equipment. I noticed at the beginning of some of your videos the disclaimer "includes paid promotions" yet I never saw what I typically would consider an advertisement for a product. The items were showcased so seamlessly. Bravo!
Now the one thing I would love and perhaps other people would also, is a detailed rundown of the roads you took. All of the road names and numbers on your route.
Thank you and bravo for an incredible series! I look forward to watching more or your trip videos.
It was sponsored by Touratech so that's why it includes the "paid promotion" disclaimer. As for the roads, I did my best to label and describe many of the actual roads that I took, but I think anyone could do a similar ride with a little planning and preparation. I made up a lot of the route as I went along, based on the weather and other factors, and I don't think the actually roads I took are that important. There are so many good roads out there!
@@SterlingNoren thank you for responding! It's true that there are many great roads to choose from.
✌️
yes to latin america series.
Thanks wished I had known you on my motorbike trip down through the USA as I stopped over in Bisbee 2018 ( Grand Hotel ) for one night down to Houston from Canada / back to U.K.
South America would be great. Love all your videos. Inspirational!
I think the best way to describe my feeling is the word “inspiring”. I really appreciated the didactic and generous way with which you share your findings and the gear arguments. Very well done.
We KLR riders are happy with Sportsman's Warehouse, Walmart and Rocky Mountain ADV.
lol those "BMW Straps" I used to be able to get them by the handful for free out of the bin when I swore off bungies. Last time I checked a shop wanted 5 bucks per. any rate, there are lots of options elsewhere. They are great for securing all sorts of things
Thank you, Sterling. For ALL your videos. This 30 day series has changed a lot for my future plans and dreams. I actually have an uncle and aunt in Bisbee and Tuscon where they run a Macular Degeneration clinic. I need to come see them, stay at your hotel, and venture forth to some of the wonderful places you have introduced us all to.
I especially liked the open itinerary of the trip. It would be better I think than pushing hard with others to fulfill a preplanned route. (Although that is fun too in a different way) my best riding buddy and our group have faded some... I can't imagine not riding since I've literally ridden on 2 wheels on the streets since a family issue put me on a moped to the 7th grade and beyond.
My area in Northwest Arkansas is Blessed with many dozens of awesome rides in a 3 hour reach. Yesterday, I spent 6 hours out and 5 on the bike and felt I could easily have done a few more hours on another loop had I the time.
My next challenge is going to be crossing the "empty circle of nothingness" just outside my area of good riding. I've been out west a few times...riding thru Kansas (or Nebraska), even most of South Dakota, or going out thru Amarillo...a lot of empty, not too interesting riding is hard. When I did it before we stopped on short days and hotels with my wife (when she rode with me years back) Now I just want to "get across" those places to get to some great places on my list.
Next, I'm going to see what 8-9, even 10 hours on the bike would feel like when I'm camping...and in the summer heat, and getting up and feeling good enough to do it again and still enjoy the trip and the sights...at 54 now and beyond.
I feel like the only way I want to go see my (large) bucket list of places is on my motorcycle...and by camping...and doing it solo. When I was in the Army I saw a lot of foreign countries solo...I like the freedom of just making it up as I go. Some of the trips will require a few weeks at least. In time, I will have the time to do that... for now a few 2-3 day trips this summer will have to suffice.
Also, i've made a few changes to my kit based on watching your videos as well - again thank you.
Your talent and style of peaceful, informative, and simple joy resonates they your work. We are all Blessed to indulge.
Thanks a lot! See you in Arizona when you can make it down!
Thanks I enjoyed the ride along. Yes the South America trip sounds like a good ride along series. Time to get 2017 Ural ready for my trip. Stay healthy and safe out there. 👍😁
If you post the South America trip it would be great! Glad you had the opportunity to roll like that. I use soft pans and waterproof bags also. As you say, they are dedicated to those only needed sometime things yet available. I am a bigger guy and the biggest thing I carry is a large tent. It also is great for those extended stay in the tent with weather, not feeling well, need more sleep. etc.. I like that you always pack a warmer than needed because it always gets colder than we think! Anyway, great vid. Looking forward to more my friend. Take care and be safe in your travels.
I have absolutely loved watching this trip through your eyes my Friend, I would love to see the South American trip. I am intrigued by your video/camera set up and how you store/edit videos for longer journeys though.
Thank you again
Enjoying this video and have enjoyed several of your others. I like diners in the am after an hour or two of riding when I'm solo traveling around the US and Canada and find I can eat yogurt, potato salad, Ritzbitz, an orange, Planters Trail Mix etc for dinner at sunset after my tent is set up. Stove for tea first thing in the am. Fill gas tank late in every day so I can ride for hours early early in the am when stations aren't open yet or are far away. I carry cheap flip flops for showers and liking NB Minimus foldable sneakers for hikes, even did 5 mi on Mt. Washington NH this summer. I enjoy mixing in staying with relatives that live in "fly over" locales during my travels.
Thanks! I also like diners and pretty much stopped at one every day for lunch on my solo ride. I don't want to cook or prepare food at lunchtime and appreciate the interaction with other people during the day. For me, that worked really well on my solo ride.
Yes, please share the South-American trip...!!! We´ll be greatfull...!!!
You have it made!!! Can't wait to move there, SW.
I love everything about the Beer. I've blown 2 or 3 canteens/flasks/canteens from heavy plastic to aluminum, and messed up the entire contents of my pannier. But everything else is helfpul.
Your nightly “beer” routine……brilliant!!
I don’t carry as much as you but it looks like you eat better. I also have a BMW 1200GS with similar luggage. I’m constantly downsizing and rethinking my gear. I use to end the day with a couple of beers but it’s a hassle to pack and keep cold. I rode a KTM 690 to South America, I never had hard liquor before but took some gin with me. I ran out in Mexico and found you can buy tequila anywhere south of the border so I switched. I kept it in a metal flask and it worked perfectly. I made it all the way to Ushuaia Argentina, a trip of a lifetime but did experience some issues. When I got home I took the BMW to Prudhoe Bay, the next year I went to Inuvik then the following year to Tuktoyaktuk. I use a 3 man tent that’s nice because I can leave all my gear inside. My camping is still evolving after all these years. My channel is BlackdogADV, maybe I should make a vide on how I camp and eat off the bike. Anyway, you did a nice video, now do one on your cameras and show how you make and edit them. Ron
Yes, would like seeing the South America ride trip series
It's amazing how much you appreciate a chair and a little table at a camp site after a long day of riding. That little bit of comfort/convenience goes a long way. Also, good sleep is super important on a longer camping trip. I will sacrifice size/weight for a good night's sleep. A good backpacking cot or a thick inflatable mattress can make all the difference. If you are traveling one up then you will have the space and never notice the 5 extras pounds on the bike.
SPORTSMAN'S WAREHOUSE IS BY FAR MY FAVORITE OUTFITTER STORE.
VERY REASONABLE PRICES COMPARED TO BASS PRO / CABELAS.
South America ride! Off course!
thanks for these videos i'm retired and planing my first 2 weeler trip.. big help. stay safe
Yes would be very interested in viewing your 65 day trip of South America. Great video, thanks.
I binge watched this whole series. That’s an awesome lifestyle and I hope to replicate on a smaller scale one day. Fantastic job and thank you for sharing!
You can do it!
I feel very inspired. It was a real pleasure to go with You on this "virtual" trip. My Africa Twin is waiting for my own trip :D
+1 As the early inmate noted..."Hell YEA "...we want to see more more more. Please post your South America footage.
Wow! Noticed your subscribers jumped 2X to 20.5K . Awesomeness ! We're all vicariously living through your lens and fabulous trips .
No bear spray ? Going up through grizzly country in WY and MT, I usually carry a small canister. Thanks for sharing. Kam
Yes, definitely want to see the South American video
Thanks! Been great watching. Try an underquilt for your hammock. Enlightened equipment or hammock gear. The underquilt compresses very well and will keep you super warm. And please post the South America videos!
Hell yeah 65days in South America sounds awesome
Klim Latitude makes an excellent Gortex pant that goes with that Jacket. Too. You may know that. Good stuff here. Thank you for posting. Hate hearing the GS has issues. Ride safe and often.
I got the titanium micro folding firebox when he sought support to get it made. Tiny does a great job and great backup to gas but also a safe nice fire and heat source if all you want is a smore...
Yeah, please share your south america trip. We'll enjoy see it. Thanks
Please share the South America trip! New rider here and appreciate all the great videos and inspiration!
Great detailed report, I like that. Some things I find a little bit bulky but I admit also having some other "unnecessary" stuff I won't ever miss again on my trips
Man I would have to bring my truck to carry all that stuff on a trip!
bike must weigh a ton
that was awesome. very informative. been wanting to go away from home for a weekend, or more, and not pay for a motel room. the clothes, cooking gear, how to pack it all. going to use this as a guide for future reference. thanks for explaining everything.
Yes to posting the South America trip! Thanks!
I am half way through the series and I am loving it 💖
Thank you Sterling. I recently discovered your channel via @LivingOffTheSlab and I've already learned a lot from you about camera gear, setup and filming. I love the hydro flask for beer tip and just ordered the mini tongs from this video. I look forward to watching more of your channel and hope to one day make it to the Jonquil Motel.
yes please, I would love to see the South America trip!
Just watched the whole series of videos. Thoroughly enjoyed every one.
Excellent video, many thanks! I have ridden thousands of miles but never camped so this helps me tremulously. As a side note, I lost my phone in CO one time when the ram mount (you show) broke and they both hit the road at a high speed. Don’t trust that thing and bring a spare phone lol!
I would suggest getting an underquilt for your hammock. They insulate and keep your very warm if you're hammock camping. I have a One Tigris brand and they work very well.
Definitely want to see your South American trip. Next time you are in Northern Colorado I would definitely love to meet you. Met Eva already at International Motorcycle Show in Denver but bring her along.
We watched the entire series on your up and down trip across the US. Excellent and enjoyed it all. We would love to see your South America trip. Thank you for your efforts.
I would love to see that trip,also as an outdoorsman myself I would like to suggest a simple 100% wool blanket for camping. They are fire resistant and when fully soaked, still maintain about 80% of their insulation value. On your hammock, if you pin or tie one wool blanket to the bottom side it will stop the heat loss and help you sleep like a baby.
Thanks for the suggestion Tony. I love wool blankets a lot although I've never tried one for motorcycle camping.
Definitely would like to see the South American trip!
Great ideas Sterling. Thanks for taking the time to set all that up and videoing it. Like everyone else, enjoyed your trip and agree that the Sth.American trip would be great to watch. Merry xmas to you and your family
Yes Please for the South American series
I rode a Honda CH250 scooter with all my backpacking gear and camped off the scooter... A lot let stuff and luxuries than what he caries and i was fine for the few nights out camping alone in middle of nowhere.
Please share the South America trip, love your content. Thanks for sharing all your tips and tricks.
Ditto..."Hell YEA we wanna see your South America ride". Sterling, love your videos. I am retired in Ecuador and the V-strom is now completely set up to begin touring/camping in South America. Would love to see your videos of Expedition 65. I'm sure it would provide excellent insight.
Thank you for the time and effort to share the gear you use. It's always good to see what others pack. I pack less, but my bike is smaller and I take shorter trips. I mostly pack my ultralight hiking and camping equipment, plus motorcycle tools.
Great walkthrough! So cool that you are passing along what works for you through trial and error. Couple lessons learned for me...I use my Pannier as a table with a folding top. Tents -only have a Kelty 3 person tent for my trips...for the minimal increase in bag weight/size, having a tent to house more than just me comes in super handy. Ice - fashioned a Yeti half gallon jug to mount to the pannier. Under right conditions can retain ice for several days. Have to plug the Helinox Chair 1 camping chair. Expensive but soooo worth it. I definitely need to add a hammock after watching your series. Way to go Sterling!
I would love to watch the South America tour.
Thanks Sterling.
Really enjoying the thorough information, the channel in general and the low key delivery.
Glad you enjoy it!
Love to see the So. America Trip.. Please post
Sea to summit “red sleeping bag liner- the extra long version! - great option as a light “blanket”“ stretchy - which is a real bonus and includes a tension cord at top to adjust tightness around Chest / shoulders- packs down to next to nothing
Ignore many reviews- they work - field tested for years - too many use as not intended AKA no sleep pad , cheap sleeping bag Arctic temps and hence, over rely on this bag liner
Hell yeah. I really want to see the south America trip. Will be awesome.
Just watched the entire series in 2 days. Just fantastic. Thank you so much for sharing your journey. I definitely learned a few things and really appreciated your explaining your gear and how you pack it. Please do more!
+1 for the South America trip
iclimb has some cheaper compact tables (mini, ultralight, extendable). The extendable one packs small and gives you coffee table height. But their ultralight compact mini beach is similar to the GSI. They also carry a few cots.
Another great video. I watched all the videos from your recent 30 day trip and enjoyed each and every one. My vote is heck yes I want to see your South America trip! Thank you for your service to the ADV community!
Hi Sterling, we followed along on every episode and thoroughly enjoyed the ride! Thanks for much for taking us all along :) Please share the South America trip I'd love to see it. Stay Cool & Stay Safe !!! -Ray
Awesome, thank you!
Excellent review of your gear. Please post those videos of your trip through South Americca. Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2021.
Enjoyed the series - thanks for putting it together! Sister used to live in Red Lodge, loved driving the Bear Tooth pass and the Glacier area. Just picked up a DRZ - enjoy riding north Phoenix area. Very well done video!
Glad you enjoyed it!