I started watching g today on 17 April 2024. I did Chicago to LA and back via Colorado, Utah, NV and AZ last summer. On the way back I encountered extreme wind warnings in Limon CO. I thought I could get ahead of the weather but it caught me. I gave up 6 hours short of my goal for the day and spent the night in Brooklyn CO. Better to live and ride another day than play the hero. Love your content!!
N 7 days Doodle U hav my up most Respect👍👍N 23 I did that n 2 months but i visited family n WA & OR.& Montana exploring as much as I could taking many breaks Ect. But to ride that far n 7 days WOW U GO GIRL👍👍
I agree with michaelspurling I live in Arizona the dust storms, haboobs (sp), monsoon down pours we get to enjoy are no joke here. they are not fun to get caught in while on 2 wheels.
‘Just found your channel. As a 58 year old father to a 16 year old daughter and long haul commercial driver, I commend you on your travels and very happy you heeded warnings in the wind. Excellent video and hope my daughter is as brave as you one day!
Chase vehicles are never a bad idea on long trips, like Doodle realized. Tools, spare parts, extra fuel, first aid; and the security of knowing if anything goes wrong, you've got someone who'll be there in a few minutes. Plus, extra content if they document their perspective of the adventure too.
You are such a gem, sending an “air” hug on line. You and Itchy Boots started out as my favorites. Thanks to you added Moto Jitsu and Jerry Paladino. That was an exciting cross country trip!”
The last time I commented on one of your videos I said you were an inspiration. Understatement! You are quite incredible and your videos are professional, educational and very enjoyable. And 3000 miles is no mean feat; it's three times the length of England and Scotland combined. Marvellous! Well done.
Size matters, from El Paso, Texas to Texarkana, Texas is a 814 mile drive on the interstate highway system. These states; Alaska, Texas, Oregon, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, California and Michigan are larger than the UK.
@@fixento France will fit in Ontario, Canada 3 and a half times. I know many Europeans who couldn't believe a six hour drive was just from one major city to another major city and still be in the same province.
This was epic...was scary and real and the emotion and fatigue that I get from riding 3-5hr trips you definitely had more. It's refreshing how like...genuine? your content is? Not overly glamorized or anything. It's real life biking - real life adventure, it's not perfectly zen - there's a danger element and that makes it very intriguing to watch. Like wow I wouldn't have known about dust storms either, i'm from Louisiana, we don't know about those!
When I was a child, we lived in Lovington, NM, and the dust storms were so bad at times we couldn't even see the hood ornament on our car. They're truly blinding you, so stopping is the wisest thing you could do.
You got it worse than us up in the northwest the worst ive seen it is when you cant see the house that on the other end of the culdesac and across the street. But a lot of new mexico is just flat so its probably way worse
@@censored4christ162 A friend of my mothers years ago said that she and her husband pulled over because they couldn't see enough to proceed in a dust storm. They heard a crash and her husband said he was going over there to check on the people. He didn't return and within a few minutes an officer saw their car off to the side. He walked over there to check on them and she asked the officer if he'd seen her husband. They'd found a body a ways from the wreckage and didn't know where he belonged. It was her husband. The sandstorm was so blinding that a car did see him and hit him. Sandstorms are to be taken seriously.
Hey Carolyn, It's great to see you made out to the west coast safely. There are many challenging situations that we face when riding motorcycles especially on long road trips and it's always better to play it safe when there are dangerous conditions like strong winds or other bad weather to just stop and rest and wait for things improve. This trip was a wonderful experience for you and a memory of a lifetime.
Tools, tools and more tools... Here's the thing with cross country trips there's going to be a time that you are going to need them or you are going to need them if you see a fellow biker broken down... At least you went out and bought a tire repair kit and a portable compressor... Now you don't have to go out and buy a whole new set of Snap on tools they can be cheap garage sale tools... a good rule of thumb is to carry the tools you need to remove body panels, zip ties, spark plug wrench, 10mm wrench for the battery, so all the tools you would need to do a basic service on your bike and use those tools whenever you do a service on the bike if you need to go to the tool box to remove anything than you need it in your tool bag. I carry a tool roll for each of my bikes with the exception of the Hogs I just move that tool from bike to bike. Since, you are on an adventure bike it's really important that you carry your tools even when you are on the road. as far as the crash bars they are there to save you from damaging your bike they will generally give at the tabs where you bolt them to the bike this does not mean if the crash bars give your frame is cracked. It takes more than one or two drops to fatigue a frame to the point of failure unless the manufacture just did a crappy job on welding up the frame.
Congrats on an epic ride, one that you will remember for the rest of time. Also a great tale to tell in the future. Your spouse and family are special to live through the trip back home. I've had a couple epic tales like this in many decades of riding. 2024 late spring I'm adding a cross country/4 corners type trip to the bucket list. It will be a pleasure ride, so I plan on stopping and smelling the roses many times on the trip. Retirement is great for that adventure. Enjoy the ride and keep the wheels down.
Everyone Please be on the lookout for her and help and watch out for her as much as possible... Shes an awesome content creator. Cmon motorcycle community make her trip safe and fun
She's um finished already. YT content takes so much of an effort to edit that video's are sometimes months after filming. Plus its a bad idea for her to let people know where she is when she's there.
Doodle, I made a very similar trip ten years ago upon my retirement--from Maryland to northern California (3500 miles)--at the same time of year, but I did it on a Harley Electraglide Ultra, and experienced the same wind, storms, etc. that you have. I was 69 years old, but in excellent physical shape. Like you, there were times that I thought I would crash and die, e. g., in a massive sandstorm, even worse than a duststorm. Congratulations! Those who have experienced such a trip truly appreciate what you have achieved. Have an easy and safe trip back.
@@fdub301 Sadly, no. Zigzagged north and south to try to avoid extreme weather--e. g., softball sized hail in southeast Texas, snow on Rt 40 in Arizona, etc. thereby the 3500 miles.
@@fdub301 It still was one of the best adventures I have ever had, loved every minute and how I was treated along the way. But now I still enjoy east coast trips, mostly up and down the Blue Ridge area. 79 now, still glad I can ride! Thanks for your interest.
A hero is defined as “a person who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements and noble qualities.” Doodle, you are a true hero! As a father of two grown daughters and a long time rider, you are an inspiration! Be safe and you will be in our prayers.
congratulations on a successful trip, i look forward to seeing the series. i ride an earlier iteration of the tiger, they're great machines. a couple notes: the air pressure listed on the tire sidewall is max pressure, but you don't need to go that high - most road tires are great around 34-36 psi, and 50/50 tires around 30-32 psi (you'll get better traction and road-feel); also, you can stabilize the bike in crosswinds by sticking your knee out into the windward side. keep the rubber side down!
Hi i live in Australia and i enjoy watching your channel . I noticed you dont like the blue tiger have you thought of doing a vinyl wrap to change the colour or maybe a custom wrap to promote your channel . Wish you safe travels and cant wait to see your next training video
@@DoodleOnAMotorcycle I haven't done cross country in long time, but always used the stock center stand wherever I could. Could usually ride right off from it too after starting up. Save your back though like you do using your legs, back lifting. South Central Plains, Continental Divide Wyoming, Lower Idaho, Utah, Upper Nevada can have high winds just about any old day:)
Just got done watching this video. All I can say is WOW! In the face of adversity you were an absolute warrior. You are a true inspiration to all. I am looking forward to the next video of the series.
I live in New Mexico. The wind here is no joke. People should never ride into a dust storm! Wait for the storm to subside and then resume your journey. If the winds were at 46 MPH in the plains, chances are they were pushing 70 MPH through the canyon. You handled it well though.
Back when I was riding roads I was out on a ride in the east mountains when the wind picked up to 70mph gusts. Came out of a road cut broadside to the wind and it felt like my boat anchor of a TL1000R was just barely heavy enough to not get blown out from under me.
We got a new ac because one time the wind was so bad it blew apart in the wind. One panel of the side flew off and then that made it less able to cut through the wind because its a big square on the roof. Several pieces just blew away and we mever saw them again. So you also have to be carwduk in winds storms of debris. My ac unit pieces are flyingaround trting to cut peoples heads off out there 😂😂😂 big piece of sheet metal
What an inspirational journey…thank you for sharing…I am a new older rider and I appreciate your honest approach to riding and the learning process. Keeping being you 👍🏻
Springtime in New Mexico! I was riding south of Tijeras a few weeks ago in some fairly gusty winds (20-40 mph or so) and dust devils and it was fatiguing after just an hour - I can't imagine doing it for a longer time like you were in that insanity. Hard core!
I envy you soooo much!!!! You've done something that I always wanted to do but I had home life in the way.... now I feel I'm doing good by riding 700 miles in 1 day but suffering for the next few days. Glad you had a safe trip, able to meet friends, put you're feet in 2 oceans and hopefully you made a life time of memories!!!! Bless you and keep you safe!!!!
I have made that spring trip from North Texas going in to New Mexico twice (neither time I was on my bike) and the first time I got to experience that insane wind that just doesn't ever let up. The second time I was heading towards Roswell and there was this line of thunder storms from horizon to horizon that was so intense that we actually drove through a downdraft (may have been an F0 tornado) that nearly pushed my two ton XTerra off the road. The spring weather in that area is no joke.
Doodle, I'm in the UK and I got a Tiger 800 last October (first bike was a Street Triple!). Finally starting to get out on it now the weather is getting better and seeing you on your 900 is so inspirational - you just get on with it and don't let yourself get too in your head! I've been quite intimidated by the size/weight of my new bike but the more I get out on it the more I can't wait to do some long trips this season!! (long trips for the UK at least!)
When you see motorcycle adventuring you don't always get the real challenges. This is the first adventure video where some challenges seemed super discouraging like fatigue, weather, or being stuck somewhere which I overcame otherwise in a car. Things I didn't think about going through since adventure riders focus just on how they got out of the danger and what got them out. I also noticed now the small things or good people that rescue every adventure rider's trip. Maybe you can meet fans too (by RSVP?) when you visit their city. Its fun when you go by a fans city or freeway and I hope we can offer help as you run by. I hope I can do more of what you do someday once there is a way to afford having a motorcycle and the stuff that delivers you out. First has been hard to figure out which motorcycle brand to get that I would love to ride, but then the initial cost of protective equipment came up as the first priority.
Wow Doodle what a journey.. thank you for sharing the good and the bad. I have made this trip many times.. from North Carolina my home state to Cali my Dads home state but never on a bike. I admire your determination and guts it takes to ride that far and not knowing what to expect. Be safe out there...knees in the breeze.! ✌🏍😎
@@DoodleOnAMotorcycle I say this kindly to help, hasn't anybody told you to get a wristband or something to hold the front brake so the bike won't roll while you are picking it up? Locking the front brake should help you picking it up.
I have a 900 Rally Pro. I was looking into tank guards for these bikes before I even got mine. The consensus was don't do it. They are known for shearing off bolts in the motor mounting points, as well as breaking the subframe and totaling the bike. I felt everyone of those drops myself. I've dropped mine 3 times so far just coming to a stop. They are tall and top heavy. Glad to see you hanging in there. Ride on, and ride safe.
Cross-country trips are awesome, not cheap and takes a lot of planning but even then, the unexpected can happen, but always a sense of accomplishment when you finish the day and eventually reach your destination. I did Phoenix to Florida Keys and back (5,555 miles) in 10 days in March 2021 (posted on channel) and got really lucky with the weather by staying south, mostly warm for the most part. Then in June of same year, did San Diego to Washington state, looped Olympic National Park and back through a bunch of national parks, it was pretty epic given the scenery (compared to the straight shot on I-10 to Florida) and again managed to not get rained on until the last day when I rode through a monsoon storm in Arizona. Goal for this year is to hit the northeast corner of the country and ride to New York via the Pig Trail, Tail of the Dragon and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Attempted last year, but shop mis-balanced my front tire and had to abort within the first hour due to front end vibration. Props to you for going for it!
This was a marvelous recap, Doodle! It served a great reminder of why I will never attempt such a trek. Kudos to you! Yep, I realized that life without a risk is a life without a risk! HAHAHA! You're the best, Doodle!
I remember one time I was riding through mesa country somewhere in the Northwest corner of Colorado / Southeast corner of Utah, I caught a side gust that it felt like it lifted me up and dropped me a foot to the side. Not sure if it was really that dramatic, but that's what it felt like. How I didn't fall over I don't know.
That was good time. In 1966 while in the Marine Corp. (I was 22) I rode my new 1966 R 60/2 BMW from San Francisco home to Miami Fla. (3,600 miles in 5 days)Was March , 17* in Flagstaff Az. and snow, took some of Route 66 and rain thru Texas and tornado weather. Learned a lot about long distance riding. It was a perfectly reliable motorcycle and easy to up keep with the tools provided. Put 76,000 miles on it in a year and a half! Be safe and keep the rubber side down. Still riding long distance at 79!
You are awesome for sharing the trials and tribulations of the trip, it shows the true risks of motorcycle travel rather than acting like it is all rainbows and unicorns. This was an epic first long travel video!
Great videos. Love the new bike (good choice). Just wanted to give you a little tip when you drop your bike on the shifter side. A tall bike can be a challenge to lift for a short stature person, especially when dropped on the shifter side. And so, because the handle bar is hard over to the left, chalk behind the front wheel first before lifting - with a solid object, like a rock, 2x4 stick of lumber, a brick, or a tree branch to keep that front wheel from crawling away from you as you lift. Best of luck!🌹
Great video. On my 1st cross country I had that kind of wind going from Tucson to San Diego and it was not even a little bit fun. It was hours of my bike being at an angle fighting to go straight, and my bike wasn't as tall as yours, so good on you for getting through it! There are some trips we take that are more fun in retrospect than in the middle of. Loving the videos and seeing your adventures. I'm recommending you to others and especially women who are interested in riding. My wife has been riding for 10 years now and I think she is going to love these. And like you, touching water on both coasts was a thing I had to do! I grabbed a stone from the Atlantic to toss in to the Pacific.
Thank you for your amazing videos! People like me literally live these experiences through you. For those of us who have been on roadtrips with motorcycles and know the difference when it's 40 degrees and raining how desperate you can become to just find a gas station with a roof on top every 100 miles. Please keep them coming and keep staying safe! Also love to see you coming to Chicago!
I just got back 2 weeks ago from a trip out of Oklahoma City to Phoenix and I encountered these same conditions. 3,500 miles in 11 days. Thankfully, no major mishaps, but it wasn't totally issue free either. I tipped the bike over at a gas stop while trying to stuff my wind shirt into my already overstuffed bags. Lesson learned to not push away from the kickstand. Total bummer though. Those dust storms really freaked me out too. I also caught some dangerous crosswinds around Amarillo on the return, but thankfully missed the worst of it the next day. I also delayed my trip by a day to miss those wind gusts you got a taste of too. Congratulations on making it by yourself! I got a huge kick out of watching you tackle that after my experience. You're a brave woman. Respect for your effort.
Wow..What a journey. Thanks so much for your candid play by play of the trip. I'm in the early stages of planning a cross country. information from this video will surely help..Thanks again!
Made almost the exact same trip April 1 - April 23 of 2022 Savannah, GA to Tahoe, CA. and back. Six days there, and five days back, with a week's visit in between. It's a tough haul through Texas, New Mexico and Nevada.... that wind is fierce. I remember it well. Great job. You will never forget that ride!
Proud of her ? I take it that you're her mother or sister or something? Whatever it's great content and she is inspiring and yes indeed, thank you to the sponsors.
Just before you said you didn't perm your hair, I was thinking your hair looked great, like you had stopped for the day, showered and relaxed. Very glad you stopped early that day. Anyway, I was pleased to see the return of Future Doodle @17:40 -Yay! Lots of cool gadgets and gear at the end were some cool selections and great recommendations. Glad you were able to get the tires change. Cheers to that business for fitting you in.
This is awesome! I want to do this! 2900 miles in 8 days sounds and looked so tough. It is great to see all the cool people who offer help along the way. I like to think the vast majority of people out there are good.
It is tough especially that type of bike. Think of terms of riding on board all day long with wind pummeling you all the day long. I’m in my 60’s now and these days a 200 mi day is a long day. Not long ago twice that was a piece of cake.
You did the right thing stopping early for the night to avoid the wind storm. I just moved from Seattle to Mobile last October. I visited family in California and then drove I-40 across Arizona and New Mexico. I saw multiple 5th wheel and semi trailers on their side along the way. The wind is sketchy enough, add to that limited visibility and it quickly descends into just not a good idea. You learned alot and listened to your gut. Nothing negative in that at all.
I just did the same ride except that I went from Los Angeles to New Mexico in April and May. I didn’t hit a dust storm but I hit the most gnarly wind conditions I’ve ever experienced. I roughed it out for about 6 hours. It’s no joke. I’m glad you stopped. The storm you went through seems much tougher than the one I was in. Great video
Hallo war sehr sehr mit dir mit zu Fahren hab sehr genossen..Wirklich sehr Respektvoll so ne lange Strecke ganz alleine aufzunehmen..Hut ab .. Einfach nur supper..viel Glück u Spaß noch bei deinen weiteren Reisen..👍👍👍🍀🍀🍀
From a person who has only done half of what you've done already. YOU ma'am are an inspiration! I was smiling, bitting my nails, and laughing through out the whole video. Keep it going girl! Subscribing now. 😁
Hey. When picking up your bike. If you keep a short strap in your tank bag, you can put it around the throttle and front brake lever. So much easier lifting when the front wheel doesn’t rotate away. Safe journey 😊🇳🇴
Another great video filled with helpfull tips. Your authenticity and honesty is why I watch your videos. Thanks for making this one and congratulations on cycling cross country.
I took a 3,600 mile trip on a Ducati Panigale (even though I had a GS Adventure at home) a few years ago and ran into similar, fun conditions: unseasonably cold in Flagstaff, dust and wind in New Mexico and West Texas, and a hailstorm in Austin. The wind and dust were so crazy that the road crews were pulled inside (I found out when I stopped for a break to clean the INSIDE of my visor). There was a windsock on one bridge so you could plan which lane you wanted to get blown out of. :) The XD4 is designed for use with or without the peak. In fact, there is an extra spacer in the box. I find I have much less neck fatigue and pain after long days when wearing the Corsair X rather than the XD4. I loved this video. These trips seemingly always entail adventures, regardless of planning. Very trying in the moment, but great memories afterward. Not sure about having your mom drive behind you across the continent though….
Dang! Glad you made it to the safety of the Hotel, and you were blessed to listen to the native American man and seek shelter. Stay sage out there! Nothing but utmost respect to you tenacity!
In my over 50+ years of riding I have done many round-trip rides from my home State of Alaska to all over Lower 48 and Canada, including most recently Las Vegas in 2019, Washington last year, and I plan on Arizona this year. So as someone that has experience in long distance riding I want to assure you that riding across the Country in 7 days is a huge accomplishment so don't ever sell yourself short on that. Also knowing your limits and when to not take unnecessary chances is a very admirable trait that you obviously possess. I love your channel. Keep up the great work and stay safe and I hope you have many more long-distance rides in your future because, in my opinion, there is nothing like long miles and adventures on the open road to feed the soul.
Hi doodle. I have a pick your bike up tip. Get one of those rubber coated tie wraps and wrap lock your front brake on so then it's in gear (rear wheel locked) and front wheel locked with wrap. I also pit that on when putting on my rear wheel stand. Best wishes from Ottawa Canada 🇨🇦
I just received my helmet light and it's amazing! Added visibility and security. Thanks for showing me this safety device, it's an additional level of safety that could save lives.
Did a cross-country from east to west about four years ago. Wind so bad I had to pull over and sleep ina corn field in Kansas. NM was a whole other booger when windy. That stretch from Las Cruces to the border of AZ is sketchy on windy days. Best wishes of times, Met some people from all walks of life. Proud of you for facing the adversity head -on literally. Good vid
Good decision waiting out the storm, have personally watched semis get blown over in high winds, also have a friend that lost a leg riding in high wind, got blown off the road into the ditch. Great video!
Epic. Thanks doodle for showing all sides associated with doing a cross country ride. Things don’t always go to plan. We can’t control the weather. Ride and ride safe. You’ll never get to your destination if you’re dead. Looking forward to that tracker update. I have concerned family too. 😩
Great to see a young lady take on a cross country trip. The western US is bigger than most people realize, there's also micro-climates created by the geographical features. So in one day you can experience below freezing to 100+ degrees in temperature swing, basically every kind of precipitation known to man and winds strong enough to blow over an 80,000 pound semi. What you accomplished is far more difficult than most people realize. Also love that you did the flash forward in what looks like white sands national park. I'd highly recommend anyone take the detour from I10 and visit it. It's like nothing else I've seen in all my travels. Maybe someday you'll tackle an iron butt challenge. I did mine from Los Angeles to Houston on a ducati diavel. The 1500 mile straight shot was excruciating, but I took my time on the way back and had an absolute blast. As a solo rider myself, I love these videos. Really showcasing how much fun you can have with just you and your bike.
I really enjoy your channel thanks for all the content, I’m considering a 1000+ mile trip from CA to CO and I’m kinda nervous to do it, I have never ridden more than 100 miles one way on a trip, but your videos are really encouraging me to do it, thx!
Thanks for sharing journey aver the Saloum delta into Gambia. Very nice people that you met and interesting country. Glad that Alaska didn't have any damage on the boat ride. Enjoy the journey, stay safe, and enjoy!
I'm glad you stopped. I got caught in a dust storm in that part of New Mexico and I was running down the road in some blowing sand went across the road, and my bike started power sliding at about 55-60 miles. An hour like you said, you have to lean it over just to go straight scary. I was OK with the leaning to go straight but not the unexpected power slide because of the blowing sand across the road.
Your ride from cost to cost was a great trip and you were very informative - thanks. It takes years for most of us to experience all that you did on a single trip. You did great on this ride and I look forward to your many adventures in the future. Great job! I wish you the best and "keep the rubber side down." Tom.
This was better than watching any show on TV. VERY interesting. Thank you for making it. I have a KZ440 (450lbs) that I cannot lift off the floor and I am 5'10" and 190 lbs. You rock girl.
You can do it!! I couldn't lift my bike when I first got it (501lbs I am 5'3.75") but after practicing the proper technique a LOT... I can now! This video shows that process on how I learned to lift it th-cam.com/video/J7FH25rECvI/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Le0-V_ovyUNjLllZ
Your videos are the best! I also just wrapped up my first coast to coast and back solo motorcycle journey (Maryland to Monterey CA (+PCH 1 to Big Sur) and back). I've been home for 2 days and I am still cold! I missed the dust storm, but I hit a terrible 2 hour long thunder storm with marble size hail around Waco Texas). My ride was from April 14th to May 4th, I did it on my Low Rider St. Not sure what your exact timing was, but we may have been on the same route at the same time. Oh yeah.. the CA gas pumps.. lol.. I had the same problem! Can't wait to see more of your videos! Congrats!
Back in the mid 90’s I rode my Honda cb 900c through there heading west. It was no problem for that bike to hit 100 mph. However when I crossed from New Mexico into Arizona I was hit with a head wind soo hard that I could just barley do 60 at almost full throttle. It looks like you hit the same type of wind. Stay safe and take care out there,
Your trip shows me all the reasons i am happy being a local rider kind of guy! I love riding and listening to my music collection. I ride 50 to 100 mile per ride, all year round. I don't leave for a ride if the roads are snowy of the threat of snow is eminent. I ride a Rebel 1100. I'm 76 years old! Love to ride!
Ditto on the red/blue comment! I had a 1991 Kawasaki Zephyr 550 years ago. I loved the look of that naked bike -- no plastic, an inline four, mag wheels, round headlight, and a 4 into one chrome exhaust. The fly in the ointment was the deep purple metallic color. Eventually I sold it and bought a '92 Yamaha Seca II -- in bright red. 😊😊😊😊
Hello from and Irishman in Germany. When picking up your bike, you can see that the front wheel is turning, which makes it doubly hard. Use a cable tie or bungy cord to wrap around the front brake lever and it'll be much easier. I've been riding for nearly 50 years, so as you can imagine have dropped a few bikes in my time. Securing the front brake is a must. Brilliant video by the way!! Peace
The J& P Cycles you are at at 12:30 is only about 15 minutes from my house. I live in Phoenix and I find that most of the time the dust storms we get are a bit anti climactic. They look threatening but when they hit its just a bit of dust blowing around for a for a few minutes. Granted, the area south of town tends to get them a lot worse.
Great video. Appreciate all the learning you shared. I chose Harleys for my long distance trips because of the dealership network in case of breakdowns or general maintenance work. That has made long trips safer and less stressful. I live in Knoxville, Tennessee and want to do most of that trip one of these days, basically Knoxville to San Diego and back a different way, through Utah, Colorado to Knoxville. Ride safe!
Love your ride adventures : ) From my experience (trying to be somewhere at a certain time) can be dangerous especially if you are on a time crunch. This applies especially for private pilots and motorcyclist. One is reluctant to say no and will push on to be on schedule. If you have alotted a lot of time for unexpected delays this helps, but if you are behind, this can lead to fatigue and mistakes. I did a cross country ride like you and had to be somewhere. It was difficult to stay on schedule once I encountered a delay due to a mechanical issue. I made my Dad’s 80th birthday party in time (within 30 minutes) but I could have fallen asleep at some points during my journey. Be safe and allot plenty of time and if you can don’t have an end point appointment. That way you can enjoy your ride and experience more.
Yes sir, this is quality content right here kiddo. Thanks for taking me on a journey, pretty cool you ladies are forcing and or showing us to get out and do the thing!
Watch the whole 12 part series on the cross country trip! bit.ly/CrossCountryGAtoCA
Carolyn have you ever taken a trip to Ireland? Love your content! :)
I am start watching today on 3 April 2024
I started watching g today on 17 April 2024. I did Chicago to LA and back via Colorado, Utah, NV and AZ last summer. On the way back I encountered extreme wind warnings in Limon CO. I thought I could get ahead of the weather but it caught me. I gave up 6 hours short of my goal for the day and spent the night in Brooklyn CO. Better to live and ride another day than play the hero.
Love your content!!
N 7 days Doodle U hav my up most Respect👍👍N 23 I did that n 2 months but i visited family n WA & OR.& Montana exploring as much as I could taking many breaks Ect. But to ride that far n 7 days WOW U GO GIRL👍👍
I live in Arizona and the desert dust storms are no joke on a bike. The guy who suggested you wait the storm out gave you really good advice.
Yeah, get-there-itis can kill, whether you're in a small plane or on a motorcycle. The destination can wait.
I agree with michaelspurling I live in Arizona the dust storms, haboobs (sp), monsoon down pours we get to enjoy are no joke here. they are not fun to get caught in while on 2 wheels.
It gets pretty crazy in new mexico too sometimes. Sometimes it kicks up enough dust you cant see very far ahead.
How long do they typically last?
‘Just found your channel. As a 58 year old father to a 16 year old daughter and long haul commercial driver, I commend you on your travels and very happy you heeded warnings in the wind. Excellent video and hope my daughter is as brave as you one day!
Kudos to mom for being willing to follow. Thats something to be proud of, not embarrassed by.
Chase vehicles are never a bad idea on long trips, like Doodle realized. Tools, spare parts, extra fuel, first aid; and the security of knowing if anything goes wrong, you've got someone who'll be there in a few minutes.
Plus, extra content if they document their perspective of the adventure too.
@@nephicus339 They had several on Long Way Around, Long Way Down & Long Way Up...
Well said!!! Very well said!
A shout out to all your sponsors! Thank you! And thank you, too, Doodle. You are an inspiration!
You are such a gem, sending an “air” hug on line. You and Itchy Boots started out as my favorites. Thanks to you added Moto Jitsu and Jerry Paladino. That was an exciting cross country trip!”
The last time I commented on one of your videos I said you were an inspiration. Understatement! You are quite incredible and your videos are professional, educational and very enjoyable. And 3000 miles is no mean feat; it's three times the length of England and Scotland combined. Marvellous! Well done.
Size matters, from El Paso, Texas to Texarkana, Texas is a 814 mile drive on the interstate highway system. These states; Alaska, Texas, Oregon, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, California and Michigan are larger than the UK.
@@fixento France will fit in Ontario, Canada 3 and a half times. I know many Europeans who couldn't believe a six hour drive was just from one major city to another major city and still be in the same province.
This was epic...was scary and real and the emotion and fatigue that I get from riding 3-5hr trips you definitely had more. It's refreshing how like...genuine? your content is? Not overly glamorized or anything. It's real life biking - real life adventure, it's not perfectly zen - there's a danger element and that makes it very intriguing to watch. Like wow I wouldn't have known about dust storms either, i'm from Louisiana, we don't know about those!
Awsome.....
When I was a child, we lived in Lovington, NM, and the dust storms were so bad at times we couldn't even see the hood ornament on our car. They're truly blinding you, so stopping is the wisest thing you could do.
You got it worse than us up in the northwest the worst ive seen it is when you cant see the house that on the other end of the culdesac and across the street. But a lot of new mexico is just flat so its probably way worse
@@censored4christ162 A friend of my mothers years ago said that she and her husband pulled over because they couldn't see enough to proceed in a dust storm. They heard a crash and her husband said he was going over there to check on the people. He didn't return and within a few minutes an officer saw their car off to the side. He walked over there to check on them and she asked the officer if he'd seen her husband. They'd found a body a ways from the wreckage and didn't know where he belonged. It was her husband. The sandstorm was so blinding that a car did see him and hit him. Sandstorms are to be taken seriously.
Hey Carolyn, It's great to see you made out to the west coast safely. There are many challenging situations that we face when riding motorcycles especially on long road trips and it's always better to play it safe when there are dangerous conditions like strong winds or other bad weather to just stop and rest and wait for things improve. This trip was a wonderful experience for you and a memory of a lifetime.
Tools, tools and more tools... Here's the thing with cross country trips there's going to be a time that you are going to need them or you are going to need them if you see a fellow biker broken down... At least you went out and bought a tire repair kit and a portable compressor... Now you don't have to go out and buy a whole new set of Snap on tools they can be cheap garage sale tools... a good rule of thumb is to carry the tools you need to remove body panels, zip ties, spark plug wrench, 10mm wrench for the battery, so all the tools you would need to do a basic service on your bike and use those tools whenever you do a service on the bike if you need to go to the tool box to remove anything than you need it in your tool bag. I carry a tool roll for each of my bikes with the exception of the Hogs I just move that tool from bike to bike. Since, you are on an adventure bike it's really important that you carry your tools even when you are on the road. as far as the crash bars they are there to save you from damaging your bike they will generally give at the tabs where you bolt them to the bike this does not mean if the crash bars give your frame is cracked. It takes more than one or two drops to fatigue a frame to the point of failure unless the manufacture just did a crappy job on welding up the frame.
Congrats on an epic ride, one that you will remember for the rest of time. Also a great tale to tell in the future. Your spouse and family are special to live through the trip back home. I've had a couple epic tales like this in many decades of riding. 2024 late spring I'm adding a cross country/4 corners type trip to the bucket list. It will be a pleasure ride, so I plan on stopping and smelling the roses many times on the trip. Retirement is great for that adventure. Enjoy the ride and keep the wheels down.
Everyone Please be on the lookout for her and help and watch out for her as much as possible... Shes an awesome content creator. Cmon motorcycle community make her trip safe and fun
She's um finished already. YT content takes so much of an effort to edit that video's are sometimes months after filming. Plus its a bad idea for her to let people know where she is when she's there.
@@WeaselKonig Thank you ... realized this after watching whole video ..
@@edwardbegiebing6036 I appreciate what you said, Edward. I have daughters her age.
I think if anyone who follows her ran into her, they’d be extra kind and helpful. Doodle’s awesome.
I appreciate what you said as well. As a father and a human I appreciate kindness in any fashion
Doodle, I made a very similar trip ten years ago upon my retirement--from Maryland to northern California (3500 miles)--at the same time of year, but I did it on a Harley Electraglide Ultra, and experienced the same wind, storms, etc. that you have. I was 69 years old, but in excellent physical shape. Like you, there were times that I thought I would crash and die, e. g., in a massive sandstorm, even worse than a duststorm. Congratulations! Those who have experienced such a trip truly appreciate what you have achieved. Have an easy and safe trip back.
All the way across 50?
@@fdub301 Sadly, no. Zigzagged north and south to try to avoid extreme weather--e. g., softball sized hail in southeast Texas, snow on Rt 40 in Arizona, etc. thereby the 3500 miles.
@@vics8873 still a fun trip I bet. I only ask because I've heard a lot of guys talk about doing that when they retire
@@fdub301 It still was one of the best adventures I have ever had, loved every minute and how I was treated along the way. But now I still enjoy east coast trips, mostly up and down the Blue Ridge area. 79 now, still glad I can ride! Thanks for your interest.
@@vics8873 💪🏾
A hero is defined as “a person who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements and noble qualities.” Doodle, you are a true hero! As a father of two grown daughters and a long time rider, you are an inspiration! Be safe and you will be in our prayers.
I stopped at a lot of cool places crossing USA back - subscribe so you don't miss the 3 month series of my first cross country trip!
congratulations on a successful trip, i look forward to seeing the series. i ride an earlier iteration of the tiger, they're great machines. a couple notes: the air pressure listed on the tire sidewall is max pressure, but you don't need to go that high - most road tires are great around 34-36 psi, and 50/50 tires around 30-32 psi (you'll get better traction and road-feel); also, you can stabilize the bike in crosswinds by sticking your knee out into the windward side. keep the rubber side down!
Can't imagine having as much time as yourself. I did the coast to coast to coast in 6 days in between starting a new job.
Hi
i live in Australia and i enjoy watching your channel .
I noticed you dont like the blue tiger have you thought of doing a vinyl wrap to change the colour or maybe a custom wrap to promote your channel .
Wish you safe travels and cant wait to see your next training video
@@terrymoore9185 It's not free time, it's my job :P a fun one - but I am in production for 12+ hrs/ 7 days a week on my road trips
@@DoodleOnAMotorcycle I haven't done cross country in long time, but always used the stock center stand wherever I could. Could usually ride right off from it too after starting up. Save your back though like you do using your legs, back lifting. South Central Plains, Continental Divide Wyoming, Lower Idaho, Utah, Upper Nevada can have high winds just about any old day:)
It's great. Your logs bring a grin to viewers like myself that have dealt with extreme conditions during cross country road trips. Keep it going!
remember my first trip from Cedar Lake Indiana to Salt Lake City on my 68 FLH many many moons ago, Be Safe.
Just got done watching this video. All I can say is WOW! In the face of adversity you were an absolute warrior. You are a true inspiration to all. I am looking forward to the next video of the series.
I live in New Mexico. The wind here is no joke. People should never ride into a dust storm! Wait for the storm to subside and then resume your journey. If the winds were at 46 MPH in the plains, chances are they were pushing 70 MPH through the canyon. You handled it well though.
Back when I was riding roads I was out on a ride in the east mountains when the wind picked up to 70mph gusts. Came out of a road cut broadside to the wind and it felt like my boat anchor of a TL1000R was just barely heavy enough to not get blown out from under me.
We got a new ac because one time the wind was so bad it blew apart in the wind. One panel of the side flew off and then that made it less able to cut through the wind because its a big square on the roof. Several pieces just blew away and we mever saw them again. So you also have to be carwduk in winds storms of debris. My ac unit pieces are flyingaround trting to cut peoples heads off out there 😂😂😂 big piece of sheet metal
What an inspirational journey…thank you for sharing…I am a new older rider and I appreciate your honest approach to riding and the learning process. Keeping being you 👍🏻
Springtime in New Mexico! I was riding south of Tijeras a few weeks ago in some fairly gusty winds (20-40 mph or so) and dust devils and it was fatiguing after just an hour - I can't imagine doing it for a longer time like you were in that insanity. Hard core!
I envy you soooo much!!!! You've done something that I always wanted to do but I had home life in the way.... now I feel I'm doing good by riding 700 miles in 1 day but suffering for the next few days. Glad you had a safe trip, able to meet friends, put you're feet in 2 oceans and hopefully you made a life time of memories!!!! Bless you and keep you safe!!!!
I have made that spring trip from North Texas going in to New Mexico twice (neither time I was on my bike) and the first time I got to experience that insane wind that just doesn't ever let up. The second time I was heading towards Roswell and there was this line of thunder storms from horizon to horizon that was so intense that we actually drove through a downdraft (may have been an F0 tornado) that nearly pushed my two ton XTerra off the road. The spring weather in that area is no joke.
Doodle, I'm in the UK and I got a Tiger 800 last October (first bike was a Street Triple!). Finally starting to get out on it now the weather is getting better and seeing you on your 900 is so inspirational - you just get on with it and don't let yourself get too in your head! I've been quite intimidated by the size/weight of my new bike but the more I get out on it the more I can't wait to do some long trips this season!! (long trips for the UK at least!)
When you see motorcycle adventuring you don't always get the real challenges. This is the first adventure video where some challenges seemed super discouraging like fatigue, weather, or being stuck somewhere which I overcame otherwise in a car. Things I didn't think about going through since adventure riders focus just on how they got out of the danger and what got them out. I also noticed now the small things or good people that rescue every adventure rider's trip. Maybe you can meet fans too (by RSVP?) when you visit their city. Its fun when you go by a fans city or freeway and I hope we can offer help as you run by. I hope I can do more of what you do someday once there is a way to afford having a motorcycle and the stuff that delivers you out. First has been hard to figure out which motorcycle brand to get that I would love to ride, but then the initial cost of protective equipment came up as the first priority.
Wow Doodle what a journey.. thank you for sharing the good and the bad. I have made this trip many times.. from North Carolina my home state to Cali my Dads home state but never on a bike. I admire your determination and guts it takes to ride that far and not knowing what to expect. Be safe out there...knees in the breeze.! ✌🏍😎
8 days is great considering the difficulties. You inspire!
Congratulations on completing your road trip! When life takes you on an unexpected turn you keep on riding. Love the energy.
Those dust storms are insane! I have so much respect for you and what you accomplished. Did you set the little shell free in the Pacific?
No I kept it! 😁 it’s on my office desk now. wanted its good luck on the way back too
It’s also a great reminder to remind yourself what you’re capable of ♥️
@@DoodleOnAMotorcycle I say this kindly to help, hasn't anybody told you to get a wristband or something to hold the front brake so the bike won't roll while you are picking it up? Locking the front brake should help you picking it up.
I have a 900 Rally Pro. I was looking into tank guards for these bikes before I even got mine. The consensus was don't do it. They are known for shearing off bolts in the motor mounting points, as well as breaking the subframe and totaling the bike. I felt everyone of those drops myself. I've dropped mine 3 times so far just coming to a stop. They are tall and top heavy. Glad to see you hanging in there. Ride on, and ride safe.
Cross-country trips are awesome, not cheap and takes a lot of planning but even then, the unexpected can happen, but always a sense of accomplishment when you finish the day and eventually reach your destination. I did Phoenix to Florida Keys and back (5,555 miles) in 10 days in March 2021 (posted on channel) and got really lucky with the weather by staying south, mostly warm for the most part. Then in June of same year, did San Diego to Washington state, looped Olympic National Park and back through a bunch of national parks, it was pretty epic given the scenery (compared to the straight shot on I-10 to Florida) and again managed to not get rained on until the last day when I rode through a monsoon storm in Arizona. Goal for this year is to hit the northeast corner of the country and ride to New York via the Pig Trail, Tail of the Dragon and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Attempted last year, but shop mis-balanced my front tire and had to abort within the first hour due to front end vibration. Props to you for going for it!
I love that your Mom would actually offer to follow behind you to keep you safe, Wow! your Mom is awesome...
This was a marvelous recap, Doodle! It served a great reminder of why I will never attempt such a trek. Kudos to you! Yep, I realized that life without a risk is a life without a risk! HAHAHA! You're the best, Doodle!
Its amazing how crazy the weather is but you're quite the trooper for going for it. Be safe, drive safe.
I remember one time I was riding through mesa country somewhere in the Northwest corner of Colorado / Southeast corner of Utah, I caught a side gust that it felt like it lifted me up and dropped me a foot to the side. Not sure if it was really that dramatic, but that's what it felt like. How I didn't fall over I don't know.
That was good time. In 1966 while in the Marine Corp. (I was 22) I rode my new 1966 R 60/2 BMW from San Francisco home to Miami Fla. (3,600 miles in 5 days)Was March , 17* in Flagstaff Az. and snow, took some of Route 66 and rain thru Texas and tornado weather. Learned a lot about long distance riding. It was a perfectly reliable motorcycle and easy to up keep with the tools provided. Put 76,000 miles on it in a year and a half! Be safe and keep the rubber side down. Still riding long distance at 79!
You are awesome for sharing the trials and tribulations of the trip, it shows the true risks of motorcycle travel rather than acting like it is all rainbows and unicorns. This was an epic first long travel video!
Great videos. Love the new bike (good choice). Just wanted to give you a little tip when you drop your bike on the shifter side. A tall bike can be a challenge to lift for a short stature person, especially when dropped on the shifter side. And so, because the handle bar is hard over to the left, chalk behind the front wheel first before lifting - with a solid object, like a rock, 2x4 stick of lumber, a brick, or a tree branch to keep that front wheel from crawling away from you as you lift. Best of luck!🌹
Thanks!
Thanks!
Great video. On my 1st cross country I had that kind of wind going from Tucson to San Diego and it was not even a little bit fun. It was hours of my bike being at an angle fighting to go straight, and my bike wasn't as tall as yours, so good on you for getting through it! There are some trips we take that are more fun in retrospect than in the middle of.
Loving the videos and seeing your adventures. I'm recommending you to others and especially women who are interested in riding. My wife has been riding for 10 years now and I think she is going to love these.
And like you, touching water on both coasts was a thing I had to do! I grabbed a stone from the Atlantic to toss in to the Pacific.
I've very proud of you, as a fellow rider, for doing this. You are a rock star. Always, be safe and KEEP SCOOTIN'!
Thank you for your amazing videos! People like me literally live these experiences through you. For those of us who have been on roadtrips with motorcycles and know the difference when it's 40 degrees and raining how desperate you can become to just find a gas station with a roof on top every 100 miles. Please keep them coming and keep staying safe! Also love to see you coming to Chicago!
I really enjoy your travel videos. They have something different (better) then other bloggers. Thank you.
I just got back 2 weeks ago from a trip out of Oklahoma City to Phoenix and I encountered these same conditions. 3,500 miles in 11 days. Thankfully, no major mishaps, but it wasn't totally issue free either. I tipped the bike over at a gas stop while trying to stuff my wind shirt into my already overstuffed bags. Lesson learned to not push away from the kickstand. Total bummer though. Those dust storms really freaked me out too. I also caught some dangerous crosswinds around Amarillo on the return, but thankfully missed the worst of it the next day. I also delayed my trip by a day to miss those wind gusts you got a taste of too.
Congratulations on making it by yourself! I got a huge kick out of watching you tackle that after my experience. You're a brave woman. Respect for your effort.
You’re so inspiring. Thank you immensely for sharing your goals, vulnerabilities, courage, and sense of adventure. You’re kicking ass, woman.
Wow..What a journey. Thanks so much for your candid play by play of the trip. I'm in the early stages of planning a cross country. information from this video will surely help..Thanks again!
Made almost the exact same trip April 1 - April 23 of 2022 Savannah, GA to Tahoe, CA. and back.
Six days there, and five days back, with a week's visit in between. It's a tough haul through Texas, New Mexico and Nevada.... that wind is fierce. I remember it well.
Great job. You will never forget that ride!
You learned so much on this trip, proud of you. And thank you so much to the Sponcers !
Proud of her ? I take it that you're her mother or sister or something? Whatever it's great content and she is inspiring and yes indeed, thank you to the sponsors.
Just before you said you didn't perm your hair, I was thinking your hair looked great, like you had stopped for the day, showered and relaxed. Very glad you stopped early that day. Anyway, I was pleased to see the return of Future Doodle @17:40 -Yay! Lots of cool gadgets and gear at the end were some cool selections and great recommendations. Glad you were able to get the tires change. Cheers to that business for fitting you in.
This is awesome! I want to do this! 2900 miles in 8 days sounds and looked so tough. It is great to see all the cool people who offer help along the way. I like to think the vast majority of people out there are good.
It is tough especially that type of bike. Think of terms of riding on board all day long with wind pummeling you all the day long. I’m in my 60’s now and these days a 200 mi day is a long day. Not long ago twice that was a piece of cake.
You did the right thing stopping early for the night to avoid the wind storm. I just moved from Seattle to Mobile last October. I visited family in California and then drove I-40 across Arizona and New Mexico. I saw multiple 5th wheel and semi trailers on their side along the way. The wind is sketchy enough, add to that limited visibility and it quickly descends into just not a good idea. You learned alot and listened to your gut. Nothing negative in that at all.
Thanks!
Thank YOU!
Put a Velcro strap on bike, When you need to pick up bike, put in gear and lock front brake with the Velcro.👍
I just did the same ride except that I went from Los Angeles to New Mexico in April and May. I didn’t hit a dust storm but I hit the most gnarly wind conditions I’ve ever experienced. I roughed it out for about 6 hours. It’s no joke. I’m glad you stopped. The storm you went through seems much tougher than the one I was in. Great video
Hallo war sehr sehr mit dir mit zu Fahren hab sehr genossen..Wirklich sehr Respektvoll so ne lange Strecke ganz alleine aufzunehmen..Hut ab ..
Einfach nur supper..viel Glück u Spaß noch bei deinen weiteren Reisen..👍👍👍🍀🍀🍀
Doodle, you have inspired me to start road tripping on my bike, I have been waiting for this series to start!
Great video lived in west Texas for 4 years and dust storms are no joke glad you made it through 😊
From a person who has only done half of what you've done already. YOU ma'am are an inspiration! I was smiling, bitting my nails, and laughing through out the whole video. Keep it going girl! Subscribing now. 😁
Hey.
When picking up your bike. If you keep a short strap in your tank bag, you can put it around the throttle and front brake lever.
So much easier lifting when the front wheel doesn’t rotate away.
Safe journey 😊🇳🇴
Another great video filled with helpfull tips. Your authenticity and honesty is why I watch your videos. Thanks for making this one and congratulations on cycling cross country.
I took a 3,600 mile trip on a Ducati Panigale (even though I had a GS Adventure at home) a few years ago and ran into similar, fun conditions: unseasonably cold in Flagstaff, dust and wind in New Mexico and West Texas, and a hailstorm in Austin. The wind and dust were so crazy that the road crews were pulled inside (I found out when I stopped for a break to clean the INSIDE of my visor). There was a windsock on one bridge so you could plan which lane you wanted to get blown out of. :) The XD4 is designed for use with or without the peak. In fact, there is an extra spacer in the box. I find I have much less neck fatigue and pain after long days when wearing the Corsair X rather than the XD4. I loved this video. These trips seemingly always entail adventures, regardless of planning. Very trying in the moment, but great memories afterward. Not sure about having your mom drive behind you across the continent though….
experience is the best teacher they say. first time watching your channel, and I am very sure that this ride has taught you a lot!
Dang! Glad you made it to the safety of the Hotel, and you were blessed to listen to the native American man and seek shelter. Stay sage out there! Nothing but utmost respect to you tenacity!
It’s awesome to ride across the country so glad you got to make this trip
In my over 50+ years of riding I have done many round-trip rides from my home State of Alaska to all over Lower 48 and Canada, including most recently Las Vegas in 2019, Washington last year, and I plan on Arizona this year. So as someone that has experience in long distance riding I want to assure you that riding across the Country in 7 days is a huge accomplishment so don't ever sell yourself short on that. Also knowing your limits and when to not take unnecessary chances is a very admirable trait that you obviously possess. I love your channel. Keep up the great work and stay safe and I hope you have many more long-distance rides in your future because, in my opinion, there is nothing like long miles and adventures on the open road to feed the soul.
Hi doodle. I have a pick your bike up tip. Get one of those rubber coated tie wraps and wrap lock your front brake on so then it's in gear (rear wheel locked) and front wheel locked with wrap. I also pit that on when putting on my rear wheel stand. Best wishes from Ottawa Canada 🇨🇦
I just received my helmet light and it's amazing! Added visibility and security. Thanks for showing me this safety device, it's an additional level of safety that could save lives.
Carolyn, you’re still rocking it! All the best for your trip from Glasgow, Scotland 😛😛😛
Did a cross-country from east to west about four years ago. Wind so bad I had to pull over and sleep ina corn field in Kansas. NM was a whole other booger when windy. That stretch from Las Cruces to the border of AZ is sketchy on windy days. Best wishes of times, Met some people from all walks of life. Proud of you for facing the adversity head -on literally. Good vid
This was brilliant Doodle, thanks so much for posting. I'm thinking of my brother (from England) and I doing something like this.
Good decision waiting out the storm, have personally watched semis get blown over in high winds, also have a friend that lost a leg riding in high wind, got blown off the road into the ditch. Great video!
Amazing journey! Thank you for recording and sharing, I don't know you but I am proud of you. Stay safe and blessed always
Thank you again for taking us along on your adventure. Well done with being smart and flexible with plans. you rock!!
Epic. Thanks doodle for showing all sides associated with doing a cross country ride. Things don’t always go to plan. We can’t control the weather. Ride and ride safe. You’ll never get to your destination if you’re dead. Looking forward to that tracker update. I have concerned family too. 😩
Great to see a young lady take on a cross country trip. The western US is bigger than most people realize, there's also micro-climates created by the geographical features. So in one day you can experience below freezing to 100+ degrees in temperature swing, basically every kind of precipitation known to man and winds strong enough to blow over an 80,000 pound semi. What you accomplished is far more difficult than most people realize. Also love that you did the flash forward in what looks like white sands national park. I'd highly recommend anyone take the detour from I10 and visit it. It's like nothing else I've seen in all my travels. Maybe someday you'll tackle an iron butt challenge. I did mine from Los Angeles to Houston on a ducati diavel. The 1500 mile straight shot was excruciating, but I took my time on the way back and had an absolute blast. As a solo rider myself, I love these videos. Really showcasing how much fun you can have with just you and your bike.
I love your channel. It’s awesome to see your journey. It’s inspiring.
I am glad you are safe and decided to ride the offroad course too. Thanks for sharing the troubles and struggles honestly. 😊
What a total badass!!! I’ve done a few cross country trips myself and I know all the setbacks that can and will come outta nowhere!!!
You’re awesome 👏 the you are riding cross country on a bike that’s on my bucket list
I really enjoy your channel thanks for all the content, I’m considering a 1000+ mile trip from CA to CO and I’m kinda nervous to do it, I have never ridden more than 100 miles one way on a trip, but your videos are really encouraging me to do it, thx!
OKAY. I'm hoping you're OK. Have a nice trip. Keep us updated on what's going on. I love seeing your videos.
Thanks for sharing journey aver the Saloum delta into Gambia. Very nice people that you met and interesting country. Glad that Alaska didn't have any damage on the boat ride. Enjoy the journey, stay safe, and enjoy!
I'm glad you stopped. I got caught in a dust storm in that part of New Mexico and I was running down the road in some blowing sand went across the road, and my bike started power sliding at about 55-60 miles. An hour like you said, you have to lean it over just to go straight scary. I was OK with the leaning to go straight but not the unexpected power slide because of the blowing sand across the road.
Your ride from cost to cost was a great trip and you were very informative - thanks. It takes years for most of us to experience all that you did on a single trip. You did great on this ride and I look forward to your many adventures in the future. Great job! I wish you the best and "keep the rubber side down." Tom.
This was better than watching any show on TV. VERY interesting. Thank you for making it. I have a KZ440 (450lbs) that I cannot lift off the floor and I am 5'10" and 190 lbs. You rock girl.
You can do it!! I couldn't lift my bike when I first got it (501lbs I am 5'3.75") but after practicing the proper technique a LOT... I can now!
This video shows that process on how I learned to lift it th-cam.com/video/J7FH25rECvI/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Le0-V_ovyUNjLllZ
Your videos are the best! I also just wrapped up my first coast to coast and back solo motorcycle journey (Maryland to Monterey CA (+PCH 1 to Big Sur) and back). I've been home for 2 days and I am still cold! I missed the dust storm, but I hit a terrible 2 hour long thunder storm with marble size hail around Waco Texas). My ride was from April 14th to May 4th, I did it on my Low Rider St. Not sure what your exact timing was, but we may have been on the same route at the same time. Oh yeah.. the CA gas pumps.. lol.. I had the same problem! Can't wait to see more of your videos! Congrats!
Absolutely love your sense of adventure and desire to keep improving your skills and experience!
Back in the mid 90’s I rode my Honda cb 900c through there heading west. It was no problem for that bike to hit 100 mph. However when I crossed from New Mexico into Arizona I was hit with a head wind soo hard that I could just barley do 60 at almost full throttle. It looks like you hit the same type of wind. Stay safe and take care out there,
6:53 That is a crazy amout of electronic gear to tote across the country!
Your trip shows me all the reasons i am happy being a local rider kind of guy! I love riding and listening to my music collection. I ride 50 to 100 mile per ride, all year round. I don't leave for a ride if the roads are snowy of the threat of snow is eminent. I ride a Rebel 1100. I'm 76 years old! Love to ride!
Ditto on the red/blue comment! I had a 1991 Kawasaki Zephyr 550 years ago. I loved the look of that naked bike -- no plastic, an inline four, mag wheels, round headlight, and a 4 into one chrome exhaust. The fly in the ointment was the deep purple metallic color. Eventually I sold it and bought a '92 Yamaha Seca II -- in bright red. 😊😊😊😊
Hello from and Irishman in Germany. When picking up your bike, you can see that the front wheel is turning, which makes it doubly hard. Use a cable tie or bungy cord to wrap around the front brake lever and it'll be much easier. I've been riding for nearly 50 years, so as you can imagine have dropped a few bikes in my time. Securing the front brake is a must. Brilliant video by the way!! Peace
This is the first of your videos that I’ve watched. It was very entertaining. I hope you had fun on your trip.
The J& P Cycles you are at at 12:30 is only about 15 minutes from my house. I live in Phoenix and I find that most of the time the dust storms we get are a bit anti climactic. They look threatening but when they hit its just a bit of dust blowing around for a for a few minutes. Granted, the area south of town tends to get them a lot worse.
Great video. Appreciate all the learning you shared. I chose Harleys for my long distance trips because of the dealership network in case of breakdowns or general maintenance work. That has made long trips safer and less stressful. I live in Knoxville, Tennessee and want to do most of that trip one of these days, basically Knoxville to San Diego and back a different way, through Utah, Colorado to Knoxville. Ride safe!
Love your ride adventures : )
From my experience (trying to be somewhere at a certain time) can be dangerous especially if you are on a time crunch. This applies especially for private pilots and motorcyclist. One is reluctant to say no and will push on to be on schedule. If you have alotted a lot of time for unexpected delays this helps, but if you are behind, this can lead to fatigue and mistakes. I did a cross country ride like you and had to be somewhere. It was difficult to stay on schedule once I encountered a delay due to a mechanical issue. I made my Dad’s 80th birthday party in time (within 30 minutes) but I could have fallen asleep at some points during my journey. Be safe and allot plenty of time and if you can don’t have an end point appointment. That way you can enjoy your ride and experience more.
Yes sir, this is quality content right here kiddo. Thanks for taking me on a journey, pretty cool you ladies are forcing and or showing us to get out and do the thing!
That wind gust and the face made afterward at 9:24 summed it up! Glad you stopped.
You had me at "lucky shell." Congrats on all your achievements and thanks for being such a role model.