I'm back among the living!

Wishing you and yours a great, safe 2010!

Whew! Where did the time go?! I'm glad the old is over and the new is underway. I know it's a cliche, but the new year always brings new hope and inspiration. Like many others, I had a challenging year, but I am still breathing. The key to a stressless holiday, IMHO, is to avoid all stores. If I couldn't make the gift or purchase it online--it just didn't get gotten! (excuse poor grammar).

(The anguish on the face of these figures in Lorado Taft's "Fountain of Time" is exactly how I felt a few days before Christmas, click for closer look)

I think I've taken my last ride of the season (sigh). This decision has nothing to do with the cold weather that has gripped Chicago. In fact, on my last ride, which started off around 20 degrees F with a high that day of 24, was quite comfortable. My Tourmaster electrics are great. I dressed so well that I felt a bit too warm when I reached my destination. By the time I returned home and disrobed, I was sweating. Even the black ice that my back tires greeted didn't factor into my decision to end my ride season. No, I realize that the numerous must-do tasks that I procrastinate with during the summer, need to winter to resolve. Trying to also fit in riding is contrary to my "seek balance" and "let go" philosophy I've been trying to implement. I live in an environment that makes winter riding a challenge that I choose not to fit in this winter. (Big sigh)

Right now things are out of whack and I need to shift gears, so to speak. Besides, it's long winter evenings slurping down Japanese Sencha or various Oolong teas, while pouring over maps and tossing around trip ideas I fantasy for the new ride season that gets me through the winter doldrums. It is also the time that I re-read motorcycle classics and catch up on magazine articles on riding technique and safety. The last great book I read is Riding in the Zone: Advanced techniques for skillful motorcycling, by Ken Condon, a protege of David Hough. I've read it once and will re-read it before the start of spring. It's a must-read book for all two wheel travelers.

(Looks like a nice spring, summer or fall day, doesn't it? It was below freezing-fun!)

(LOOK where you want to go!)

When I saw this family out for an afternoon of ice skating, I thought of the motorcycle safety class axiom: look where you want to go. This family went down often that night. I wanted to yell to them to look ahead, look up, look anywhere but down, but I didn't. I just smiled at their family fun and tripped the shutter to capture images of one or more of them prostrate on the ice. I could relate. On my last ride, I found myself having to look at the ground more than I know is good. Mostly, one can scan the ground now and again to look for changes in the color or surface but one doesn't want to lock the eyes there. I must confess, I did some eye-locking on the last ride because those deceivingly small patches of ice that blended so well with the road surface caught me by surprise a few times. The longer I rode the better I was at winter scanning of seemingly clear roads, which is a bit different than summer scanning...imho.

(Seen on a power walk morning).

Physical issues that I plan to correct before the spring. I've read that despite my painful back, I should still do the weight lifting. I slowed down and stopped completely when my back became chronically inflammed. I've missed weight lifting but the back was giving me so much trouble that I thought I should lay off. But I'm convinced that when I was lifting--seriously lifting--my back seemed to breakdown less. Yes, "the old gray mare ain't what she used to be" but I'm not dead yet! I won't go down without a fight! Riding a motorcycle well--at least the way I want to continue to ride--requires excellent fitness. I believe that the older I get the more I need to rely on smart strategies and techniques to do what I used to do without thought.

Now, it's training most wisely. It is now better for me to do 25-30 miles a week of jogging than 60 miles a week of running/training, which I used to do a couple of decades ago. My knees and back now prefer long power walks, robust hiking, and inline skating over a ten miles early morning run. But even my "preferred" outlets were taking a toll on my back. My F800ST is a perfect bike for me because the slight forward position (which I actually uprighted a bit) keep the pressure off my tail bone. My Suzuki SV650 was perfect in every way except that after a 600 miles day, I felt it. This is not the case on the ST. I plan to keep up the long distance riding and there is a direct positive correlation with fitness and miles (IMHO). At least, that's true for me. My last Saddle Sore was a breeze compared to the first one. A fit body can handle more stress. Period. So this winter, I'm back to becoming one with free weights.

(I will miss Jesse Owens, my motorcycle--but heck, it's only for a few fly-by months)

So, this blog will, for the next three months morph into riding news, book and gear reviews an occasional rants about something motorcycle related (like that essay I've been working on about solo riding). This will also be the place I toy with some trip ideas and might even solicit some ideas from you. I have a motorcycle related project in the early stages that will help those living in a poor country. When the details are worked out, I will share it with you 'cause I'm hoping you might want to offer your two cents.

(The picture is of the City Auto Pound, situated on the lowest level of Chicago (the City's underbelly). It's where unluck illegally parked cars wind up. The area also provides a short cut through much of the downtown area. I motorcycle often in and out of this space).

Until next time...happy riding if you're still riding the asphalt. And if you're tucked away your ride partner for the winter, remember: "This too shall pass."

Introducing: The Scorpion EXO-900 Transformer

The BMW rally was a great place to check out vendors and spend a little cash. With a budget firmly in mind, I was receptive to being convinced to acquire a few "must-have" farkles. My own list included a new helmet. My friend, Lucas, wears a full-face Scorpion. He's not the kind to push his favs on others but he'll answer all your questions about a product he's been impressed with. He's likes his Scorpion and says it's quiet. Like me, he does a lot of research before parting with his dollars. So, the Scorpion was on my radar as a possible alternative to buying a fourth Nolan helmet. I've loved my Nolans. Obviously. Although some say, "if it's not broken, don't fix it," I say, change is good sometimes.

My friend, Claye, was also looking for a new helmet--the result of a theft in Johnson City, which I'll talk about in the rally blog that I'm working on. We knew that Nolan was having a big sale. I missed the Nolan vendor booth upon first search. Then Claye and I found the Scorpion booth. The helmets looked sleek and aerodynamic, almost space age to me. We checked out the full face, which I keep saying I'm going to purchase to add to my modular collection (helmets to me are like shoes are to some women--one can't have too many IMHO).

I shared with Claye, my friend's comments about his Scorpion. After much consideration and a return to the Scorpion booth, we both bought the Scorpion EXO-900 Transfomer helmet. It gets its "Transformer" name because the modular system that surrounds the front of the helmet is removable. This removable piece can be replaced with another, similar piece that surrounds the top part of the helmet, making a sort of external top guard. This operation opens the helmet's face and turns it into a 3/4 helmet. I'd never wear such a helmet--now; although I own a Nolan 3/4 helmet that I unfortunately bought in my first year of riding and wore about three times before shelving it in favor of a Nolan modular. Because of this, the helmet is also referred to a 3 in 1 helmet (modular, full face, and 3/4).

Claye and I thought the separate transformer feature so unimpressive that we each gave it back to the vendor for recycling. So, what is it I like about this helmet. Many things. Compared to my beloved Nolan N102, the Scorpion is significantly quieter. Since I didn't have a reference point, I didn't realize that my Nolan was noisy until I heard something different. My HJC Sy-Max seemed quiet until I experienced the Nolan. Wearing ear plugs also makes the noise less of an issue. But with or without ear plugs (I wear the Etymotic er6i noise isolating plugs) the EXO-900 is significantly more quiet.

The helmet has some interesting features. I like its internal visor system. On the left side of the helmet is a glove friendly slider that can be raised to releases a sun visor inside the helmet. It is not a deeply dark visor but it is certainly enough to block the sun from one's eyes. Both the internal and external visors are coated with an anti fog solution, which worked as I went through fog in VA on my way home from the rally. My Nolan's visor is external to the helmet. I've had no problem with this style but others have complained about it being caught in the wind and rattling. My problems started only after dropping the helmet, which I did several times. After that, the visor was randomly loose and occasionally giggled. The internal Scorpion visor can also be lowered fully or part way. It fits nicely over my eyeglasses. Speaking of which, if you wear glasses, to me, the modular is the way to go. Initially, I had trouble getting the new helmet over the glasses and had to remove them to get the helmet on. This didn't make me happy but I correctly attributed it to the helmet being new. After more than 2500 miles, I'm able to get it on and removed without removing my glasses.

The helmet has two top vents and one at chin level. I've not tested the venting system in 90 plus degrees Fahrenheit weather, but the air flow seems adequate. The helmet is a snug fit, which demands that I take care in inserting my ear plugs. If not, any protuberance will hurt, given the helmet's snug fit, after a few miles. On the back, bottom of the helmet is a small rubber bubble that is part of the "Airfit" system. If the bubble is pushed, it adds snuggness to the cheek and lower neck area. The more it's pushed, the more snug the fit and the more air is prevented from getting inside the helmet--pretty cool. This allows one to tweak the helmet for more snuggness around the checks and helps secure the helmet around the neck. I've pressed the bubble and frankly I don't notice much difference as it is already rather snug fitting in those two areas.

On the lower left side of the helmet is a doorway of sorts that looks as if it is the portal to a communication system. The Nolan has one in the same place that allows one to hook up a communication unit. I made one modification on the helmet. I loved the ratchet system on the Nolan for securing the helmet at the neck. It's a cool feature that allows easy opening and closing. The Scorpion has--or had--the old D-ring system, which I don't like. So for $10, Claye made the D-ring superfluous. We had installed a two-part slide and click system. It required minor surgery to remove the snap and replace it with the two part slide and click. Unfortunately, this doesn't remove the D-ring, so I'm left to tuck it away, which isn't a problem. So, I've had to tuck the D-ring behind the strap. This may seem complicated but it isn't and now that I've tucked the D-ring a few times, it sort of stays put.

Overall, an excellent investment. Selecting the new helmet was easy. The hardest part will be keeping the dang helmet from hard drops on hard surfaces!

Webbike World Video Review

Scale: 1 -- 10 (from weakest to strongest)

Performance: 10

Style: 9

Design: 9

Colors (available) 2

Cost: 10

"Share Your Adventure" with SPOT!

"Share your adventure ...," so says the advertisement for Spot, a messenger tool (i.e., satellite plus GPS) that allows you to inform others of your exact whereabouts. For some of us this might be more info that we want to share but the beauty of Spot is it puts you in control of just how much you want to share. You can select up to ten email addresses of family/friends whom you want to keep track of you. Think of the safety factor. Think of the possibilities for families who want to keep track of children--well perhaps it's not that great an idea for teenagers.

For me, this sounds like a perfect little gadget for the solo adventurer. In the UP of Michigan, cell phone coverage is dismal! Throughout Canada--forgetaboutit! I'm forced to check in with family via public phones (which I detest) or hotel phones or email--if I stay in a hotel with Internet service. The Spot allows one to send a text message that will include your satellite position. With the help of Google mapping, family/friends can zero in on your exact location. Cellular coverage becomes irrelevant. All the Spot needs is a clear view of the sky and a subscription service.

Another super feature of Spot is the ability to instantly connect to emergency help. This is the peace of mind loved ones will appreciate. I don't have a Spot yet. But riding solo moves this to the top of the list of essential tools for distance riding. For more than a week in Ontario, I had no mobile service and it would have been neat if, every now and then, I had the ability to send a message saying "I'm okay." I recall long days of riding and finally reaching the hotel just before dark and the last thing I wanted was to make the customary call or set up the computer to send an email. The Spot could make checking in easier and allow others to check in on me when they desired.

I'm looking forward to doing a gear/gadget review of this little doohickey after I get my hands on one.

Test riding the new Givi MonoKey top case...

Well, I am forced to take to the road this morning to test ride the new top case. It sure looks great! Given my total satisfication with the Givi 36 liter side bags, I went with the top seller in the monokey Givi top case too.

Saturday's family obligations reduced my riding to a shortie--only about 60 miles on a day that only a higher power could have made! It was absolutely amazing, hot but not scorching--perfect for my summer perforated leather jacket. Only a gentle breeze to contend with and a sparkling sun high in an azure sky. One could not ask for more! I left the family gala late and enjoyed a wonderful night ride back into the city. Everyone seemed out and about and sane.

But it's time to ride! Whereabouts still unknown. I'm going to pick a place and head in that direction. Here are some pics of Queenie's new look. The top case fits the helmet, and it will tote a pair of Rollerblades with its gear--but not with the motorcycle helmet. For long day rides, I'm going to love being able to take only the top case and leave the side cases at home.

I have myself a real tourer!

Ride safe!

In Provisional Praise of the GPS

Few things get me through a frigid Midwest winter’s night like curling up with an atlas and dreaming about fun roads to travel come springtime. Many afternoons I’ve napped on the sofa with my arms embracing an atlas with a regional map keeping company nearby. I love maps and the sensory experience maps generate while tracing my fingers along the tiny colored dots that symbolize a scenic route. For me, this tactile experience is dynamic, interactive and often directs me to research a place or a quirky city name I come across. Also, atlases and maps are additive, one leads to the purchase of another one.

So why did I purchase a GPS last year? And, why did it take me a full year to decide finally to try the contraption?

I used the GPS a couple of times last year--mostly as an expensive compass. I never mounted the GPS--out of sight, out of mind. When I did take it with me, I stuffed in my tank bag. The GPS set up looked tedious and required more attention than I cared to give it. The extra and costly topo map I purchased lacked the turn-by-turn direct route that I later regretted not purchasing. I learned to fiddle with the buttons and settings in the most basic way. The mapping software—at first-- seemed unnecessarily complicated. The wealth of free mapping tool available made dealing with the GPS software an unpleasant experience to say the least. This lack of immediate access to the GPS’s features created a barrier between the device and me. Turn to any page of an atlas and in a flash, parts of the world open before your eyes—instantly you are transported to place after place.

Touching and perusing a map gives me the same feeling as writing in longhand (versus drafting on the computer). Sliding my hand along paper as I craft words makes me feel alive, connected and engaged. It’s similar too to reading a book, turning its pages, and smelling its age--all impossible experiences when reading on a handheld computer or an eBook. Cradling a handheld or punching word into a computer creates a distance that prevents that connection I derive from reading a great book. It’s a clash between the old and the new.

But a trip late last season changed things and made me rethink the GPS. I became lost on some back roads. After riding around without much progress, I had to pull over several times on narrow, sandy shoulders to study the map. Eventually, I had to dig out the GPS, turn it on, and wait for the satellite tracking to locate me. At that point, I didn’t know how to work the “GoTo” or “Track” features—or even how to “Mark” my position. Yet, the compass saved me. Towns that don’t fit the grid model of my beloved Chicago can sometimes throw me off. For a good chunk of time, I felt trapped along the back roads of the town. I imagined being lost late into the night in a blackness that not even my headlight could illuminate well.

Another experience was scarier. While on the Lake Michigan trip, I encountered a detour. I thought I had followed the signs carefully. But after riding for far too many miles without seeing another sign, I turned around. And turned around again. Finally, I discovered that one of the signs had fallen down in spite of the sand-filled bags at the base to prevent this very thing. A most frustrating experience! In some communities, I’m not entirely comfortable roaming around and around. Men who may feel similarly have at least some assurance, I think, that they will be overlooked by the average jerk who may think twice about going against another man. As a lone female, I pose no threat, physical or otherwise to jerks. Eventually, I stopped at a gas station and received excellent guidance; by then I’d already done a slew of yelling inside my helmet. Detours shouldn’t, but some do, assume an insider’s knowledge of the roads and the signage is not always outsider-friendly. Usually, I can retrace my steps to see where I’ve become lost. That is not always possible. No matter how much freedom riding allows, as a woman and a black woman, I must keep my radar on alert at all times. After riding around a block a few times, my gut will begin to keep score, that sitting duck feeling is activated, and I am forced to ask someone for help or stop to study the map while judging if it’s is a good or bad idea to do so. As long as I’m moving, I feel safe(er). I’ve passed through some places where my gut tells me to keep moving.

Then there are those times when my pre-planning doesn’t include a road that I later decide to take. Spontaneity can be fun but it has it limits. Sometimes getting off the beaten path is a good thing, especially if one can get back on track. Some people seem born with an internal navigation system; they look into the sky, stick up a finger in the air and sense where they are and the direction in which to travel. Sadly, I’m not among that group.

For the GPS to resolve these challenges and add an additional layer for safety, I needed to learn how to use it. So, this past winter I re-read the 90 page manual, highlighting the important parts. I played with the software until I could select, mark, save and transfer routes to the device. I read some forums dedicated to the Magellan eXplorist XL and I tried to wrap my brain around the new language and information. Mine is not an “out-the-box” GPS. I had to install additional software to get exactly what I wanted—this was not cheap. Additional software ended up costing nearly as much as the GPS! That’s a whole bunch of atlases/maps I could have purchased! Although I’d read on forums that Magellan’s tech support “sucks,” my one experience proved otherwise. My one phone call hooked me to a patient woman who gave me clear instructions. Her unequivocal knowledge of the eXplorist XL had me running out of reasons not to like the unit.

Recently, I purchased the mounting ram and now the GPS is in easy eye view. The eXplorist has the largest screen of any handheld GPS. It is clearly readable in bright sunlight. I love that I can use it in the many state parks and trails I like to visit. It’s now loaded with both topo and direct route software. Although it will never replace my maps, I’ve now used it many times—along with a map visible in my tank bag, as a lone female traveler, it provides an added layer of security that a map never can. Turn-by-turn directions can prevent me from losing my way because of poor detour signage. Traipsing down unplanned roads is no problem for the GPS as it can re-calculate routes amazingly fast and steer me in the right direction. Yet, I don’t have to follow to the unit’s directions; I can go my own way and not feel constrained. Then it cleans up any bad judgment on my part. In addition, if I go somewhere and would like to get back to that place later or want to remember how I even got to this unplanned place, a couple of button clicks and I’m put back on track. This ability to drop “electronic bread crumbs” and the re-routing feature eliminate the need to stop, which can be the biggest security boon.

The GPS makes venturing off the beaten path a breeze for anyone, which is especially beneficial if you are female and traveling alone. Maps cannot compare to this built-in safety feature. If lost, I can follow the dropped “electronic bread crumbs” or use my back track feature to get back to where I came from. Those times when I felt like a sitting target, along some isolated road, stopping to check the map can be a daunting experience. While men can and may feel uncomfortable in unfamiliar places too, they are less likely to be pestered by another man and if so, they can at least put up a good physical fight It’s going to take me some time to dig out my hammer to fight back against someone who going to be bigger and stronger.

Yet, I don’t think GPS navigation will detract from my love of maps or ever become a device I’m learn to depend on. Gadgets fail. I will always sit down, pour over my maps, salivate over an atlas and trace roads with my finger. If you ever see me, you’ll also see a crumpled, folded map in the clear plastic window of my tank bag. At best, the GPS is a necessary supplement to a map—an added layer of safety. The Magellan eXplorist XL is a great GPS for hiking, boating, fishing and motorcycling.

However, I can never see myself falling to sleep on a cold winter’s night with my arms wrapped around my eXplorist XL, dreaming of a spring ride on an early Saturday morning.

Interesting Tank bags

I have a nice Nelson-Rigg magnetic tank bag that I adore. It's a workhorse. It's square and compact but expanding it makes it tall and deep--and the blue band along the front and end almost match my bike's blue. The description that comes with it says the magnets that are safely enclosed in thick material won't scratch the paint. Still, I'm careful with taking it on and off the bike. Its expansion feature has come in handy during impromptu stops at the grocery store. I've jammed in frozen vegetables, fresh fruit, bottle water, trail mix and still had room for the tire pressure gauge, mini-Maglite, mobile phone, Moleskine note pad, and a few other odds and ends. Here's the "but..." I've wanted a bag that doesn't require removal when fueling up. That might sound trivial but it can become annoying--and if I'm going to get into distance riding, removing the bag every time I gas up, can be a time robber. So, I've been on a quest for a more distance-friendly bag. Here's what I've found.

Panniers--a unique style:


I'm very impressed with Whitehorse Gear's Afrika Tank Panniers. They hang over the tank, leaving the gas cap exposed for easy access. The panniers are stylish and the bags appear ample enough to carry one's loot. Adjustable bungee cords allow the sides to be adhered to the bike's under belly. Two adjustable Velcro straps drape over the tank, which I assume means they might work on my SV. One only would need to keep the two pouches well-balanced when packing. This set-up sounds ideal. Not bad for $79.95



Big Mak AirBag Stealth SS, H3 Map Case

This is a clever system! The folks at BMA, who offer "unique" accessories for the BMW have come up with the answer to my tank bag woes. The Big Mak AirBag Stealth SS is one bag with an interesting optional companion bag. Before the bag is functional, a rack is bolted to the fuel filler cap. The bottom of the bag is then placed on this hinged mount, allowing one to flip up the tank bag when gas is needed. Imagine the amount of time saved in an Iron Butt, where time matters. The added bonus of this system is that one can attach to the Stealth, a separate and smaller bag, the H3 Map Case. This flatter, square bag is perfect for holding a map in its large clear pocket. This extra bag doesn't have a lot of depth (2.5 inches) but the top bag, The Stealth, is the real tank bag. With the two bags, a good height is created, which can help block the wind and serve as a tower to lean on if necessary. Take a look at BMA's system. The Stealth costs $179.90 and the H3 Map Case, $89.95 I'm open to other ideas.

Decisions, decisions.

My camping cargo!

Well, I’m set for my solo camping adventure.


Not knowing if solo camping is a permanent part of my motorcycle touring, I’ve kept my expenses low. The equipment I sought had to fit three criteria: decent, inexpensive and small. First the tent: I found one for $90 that was on clearance for $34. Can’t beat that! I grabbed it. The tent was made in China. I mention that in an effort to (perhaps) explain why the abysmal directions for erecting the tent. In two short, confusing paragraphs, I learned nothing! I’m one of those people who reads manuals, highlights directions and really follows instructions. But this tent came devoid of any coherent instructions. I studied the photo of the assembled tent and put it together based on the picture. It took me two tries to get it right. Once erected, I was happy I had decided to get a 2-person tent rather than a one person. This is a small dome tent that has just enough room for me and my loot—not an inch more. Its igloo design has a wide front entrance, privacy flaps and nice mesh cover. I like it; it will definitely serve me well. On a five star scale, with five being superior, I give the tent a 3.5; the instructions get a minus one!

Sleeping Bag

I selected the mummy style as I recall being bug-snug in one before. I am amazed that tents and bags run the price gamut! I found sleeping bags for $10.00 to well over $700.
After much research, I realized I could easily eliminate the high priced all-season, goose down-filled bags, guaranteed to keep me warm in below zero temps. I will not be scaling any icy mountains in the dead of winter. I opted for a hugely discounted bag for a whopping $35, which was a more than 50% discount. In print, it sounded good. In reality, it looks pretty darn good too. On the few nights I plan to use it, it will suffice. The bag earns a 3.5.

Sleeping bag pad

I found many sleeping bag pads, those items you place between your sleeping bag and the floor of your tent. Doing so will prevent you from feeling the cold and damp ground on which your tent is placed. To me the most important thing about these pads should be their ability to retain body heat, resist moisture, and ideally, add a little softness to the ground. Am I missing something? By now, I've learned that one can spend any amount on gear. I wanted cheap but good quality and I now know that it is possible if one is willing to hunt for bargains, which can be taxing. I found pads ranging in $10 to well over $200! A huge range in style and function exists. I found one $25 that was discounted to $12. When I opened the package and revealed a thick spongy pad--sort of like the memory foam mattresses--I wondered how well it would work. Well, it is surely better than nothing—I hope. For now, this gets a 3.

Headlight

This is too cool!
The lamp is large and operates from a twist wheel adjacent to the lamp. It is lightweight with an adjustable strap. The light is bright enough to illuminate the way if I have to answer a nature call in the middle of the night. It also doubles as a nice reading lamp. The only thing I don’t like about it is the military fatigue strap, but hey, I only pad $15 for it and I think it’s one of my favorite purchases. (Sidebar: while waiting at the airport to pick up my daughter who was home for spring break, I had a chance to use this as a reading light. It drained new batteries in thirty minutes!) Note to self: take extras. I rate this 4 out of 5.

Binoculars

Another potentially pricey item. Initially, confused with the mm numbers and zoom and power figures, I did some research to find out which features were necessary for my needs. One can’t go strictly by price as the same features can be found at all price levels. If desired, I could spend thousands of dollars on binoculars! Price varies also by function, glass quality and brand name. There is no need to buy binoculars designed for astronomy if all I want to do is birding. Do I need a zoom function? Lightweight, compact or something more robust? Sometimes I wish I were the kind of person who could see something, make a decision and get on with my life. This was not an easy purchase. Since I didn’t want to spend a ton, but didn’t want to buy junk, I found a pair of Bushnell (a name inextricably linked with binoculars) that retailed for $110. I bought them for $55. Good deal, eh?
They are compact, lightweight and have a medium zoom function. They fit my small hands well and I’ve already spied on an apartment building across the river. I was also able to read the fine print on a street sign far into the distance. I’m very pleased with this purchase. This gets a whooping 5 out of 5.

If camping becomes a permanent feature in my motorcycle touring, I will eventually upgrade the equipment. Until then, it’s good to know that I’m set for the season.

By the way, my friend Lucas, a serious outdoorsman, has ribbed me about my lack of desire to camp and cook my meals. To him camping and cooking go hand-in-hand. I believe him. I did it many years ago. Now, I've redefined things. Any activity that reminds me of domesticity will not be allowed on my trips! Camping is roughing it enough. I'd rather fast than cook on a vacation! So, don't expect any reviews of cooking gear--and don't try to convince me of its virtues, thank you very much.

Sidi Boot Update

For those wanting more info on the Sidi On Road Gor-Tex boot, check out the 31 reviews on Motorcycle Gear Review. Overall, the reviews are quite impressive and provide lots of firsthand experiences testing the waterproofness of the boots. Then there is the review Cruiser Magazine did on the top 12 waterproof boots--it's worth reading too. The boots examined in the article refer to a Sidi On Road Sympatex boot, which is an older version of the Sidi On Road Gor-Tex. The only difference I see between the two is a $30 price increase on the "Gor-Tex" version and the name switch. The review is thorough and well-done.

Sidi On Road Gor-Tex Boots

Now that I have over 130 miles on my new, waterproof Sidi boots ($260), I think it’s time for a serious review. I love these boots! They fit perfectly! From the moment I slipped my foot inside, they felt comfortable—no stress points to annoy you after a few miles. On the second day, I wore the boots to work to begin the break-in process. Only thing is, these boots need no break-in. I walked several miles in them that day and at all times, I felt as if I were wearing my favorite cross-trainers.

These stylish, tall boots extend above mid-leg. A wide, rigid panel that runs along the front of the boot is enough to make the rider feel that the leg is well protected. This would prevent the “ouch” I utter when backing up the bike and smacking my shin on the foot pegs. The boots fasten by four belt-like straps that are pulled through a plastic eye and adhered to four Velcro positions on the side of the boots. Consequently, the boots allow for considerable adjustment through a simple buckle mechanism.

The Sidi On-Road boots have extra padding on the inside ankle (the outer ankle is protected underneath one of the fasteners). When the boots are unfastened they reveal a loose waterproof inner panel that when tucked in provides extra waterproofing along the buckles that are used to fasten and adjust the fit of the boot.
I also like that each boot sports the extra layer of leather near the toe where ordinarily only one exists on the shift boot.

In my relatively short riding experience, I’ve had four pairs of boots. A pair of tall, leather, smokin’ Frye boots from the 70s. These stylish and sweaty boots took months to break in and feel totally comfortable in. From last season, a pair of HD leather boots with hard toe, sole and heel. I like them but they offer minimal ankle and shin protection and didn’t have the bend around the sole area needed for good foot position on a sporty bike. The other pair, an inexpensive touring boot, was fine but the online purchase without benefit of trying them on rendered them ill-fitting, forcing me wear thick, hot socks to take up the slack; still, them always felt too loose and unsafe. Yet, I bought the Sidi’s online too but they perfect like gloves, which I think proves that the Sidi sizing is truer than the cheap pair.

I love 99.5% of everything about the Sidi boot. However, there is one little thing that I hope is correcting itself. The sole of the Sidi boot has a textured, knobby appearance. My foot is flexed on the pegs, that is, I am on the balls of my feet. When it is time to shift, the knobby surface is caught by the pegs, which are also textured. Without a smooth, flat sole, foot movement is an issue. I can’t just slide my foot forward and underneath and shift gears. I consciously have to lift my foot slightly—as oppose to simply scooch it forward—and then aim it underneath to shift the gear. When I first wore the boots, this inability to move my foot easily was hugely annoying. My former boots all had a flat, less deeply textured, surface that made foot movement smooth and automatic. I must say that either now I’ve learned to compensate for this or the surface is dulling some to allow easier foot gliding. In any case, it’s not enough to diminish the beauty and functionality of this boot. Although pricey, they are among the best investments I’ve made!

Queenie’s home & Right Ear Betrayal!

For more than a year, I’ve complained about my microscopic ear canals that refuse entrée to anything larger than a pencil point. Thus every x-small to small plugs I’ve tried, my ears show their displeasure by spitting them out as far as possible the second I remove my helmet and throwing in a subsequent earache to boot. I thought I’d finally resolved my problem when I bought custom made plugs at the Cycle World Moto Show here in February.

I brought Queenie home Saturday afternoon. Before leaving home, I made sure I removed my new earplugs from their little yellow box to take with me. The train is several blocks away and my new boots felt like top of the line walking shoes! My reading on the train was distracted by thoughts of how it would feel to ride the bike for the first time since November 31, 2006. The shop had her outside, all dolled up waiting for me. In the words of Fernando Llamas, “She looked “Mahvahlous!” with her new Givi luggage and matching blue windscreen. Before mounting her, I inserted the earplugs; it took little effort for them to slip into place. I put on my Nolan and the world turned a bit quieter. I swung my leg higher than ever to clear the luggage. Pushing her off the center stand brought back fond memories; still, it seemed longer than 3.5 months since my last ride.

First impression: I felt rusty. My friction zone memory seemed fuzzy. Changing gears seemed stiff. I didn’t know if the boots were the issue or if the shifting indeed was harder than before. More than a few times, I couldn’t get into the second gear easily. I had to push hard and this bothered me. Ordinarily, my SV shifts smoothly, seamlessly and easily. I yearned for that feeling. I rode conservatively and cautiously, carefully maneuvering through the heavy homeward bound traffic.

The earplugs effectively shut out the engine and surrounding noise but not so much that I couldn’t hear what transpired around me—life was simply more muffled. Still, I felt like a novice. I took a route that required me to ascend a challenging incline with a mandatory stop at the top. Last summer, this would have been a non-issue. Saturday, I thought about it as I neared the steep incline. I managed it well but the second nature feeling about it seemed dormant from months of disuse.

Right ear Duplicity--
Inside the garage, I removed my helmet and immediately noticed that my hearing seemed lopsided and more acute out of one ear than the other. I searched for the earplugs. Only the left one was in place! I looked inside the helmet, removing the liner thinking that it had fallen inside the ear well and perhaps worked its way behind the liner. I couldn’t find it. I removed my jacket and performed my own strip search. I studied the ground. After talking to the garage attendant to let him know the bike was back, I moved the bike to its designated parking space and removed the side cases. I removed my jacket again and again patted myself down to no avail.

I couldn’t bear the thought of losing a plug before the season started—I felt some crying coming on. Just my rotten luck finally to spend the money on custom plugs only to lose them first “ride” out, a mere ten miles journey. My heart sank thinking about the money I’d just thrown away. As I headed toward the elevator something whispered, “Take another look.” I carried the luggage down the ramp near the entrance where I first removed my helmet. I studied the ground. I zeroed in on the dirty, oil-stained concrete and there I saw it, the little purple plug. I retrieved it and thanked the Higher Power. Evidently, when I removed the helmet, my right ear heaved the plug like a missile.

Whew! I’m glad I can still put my money where my ears are! Still, I’m thinking I’ve discovered another use for duct tape!

Camping Revisited...

Here’s the follow up I promised on the camping article I read in the February ’07 Road Runner issue—one of my “most favorite” magazines. I had admitted being annoyed that the first installment of the two-part article lacked a perspective that included women—not a word about any unique issues women might face or information germane to their camping needs. The February article, while well-written, I thought, should have offered something—anything that conceded that bikers and campers are a more inclusive group than the author had acknowledged. I probably would have been more forgiving had even a couple of sentences been plopped in as an afterthought. Women don’t necessarily need someone to tell them these things and it’s not just about being political correct—something I hear “trollers” ranting about on far too many forums. In my book, to be recognized shows that the writer has considered another important viewpoint—a wider audience, so to speak.

Anyhoo…a few days ago the April issue of Road Runner arrived—a Christmas subscription gift from my mother. As usual, I sank into its pages, momentarily forgetting my hives and the need to put away the perishable items sitting on the counter. That’s what Road Runner magazine does to me; I become oblivious to my whereabouts. A quiet, comfy spot to peruse the well-crafted narratives is all I want. I imagine snapping those inviting pictures the travel tales include. I follow the routes in my atlas, tracing the writer’s road details and dreaming of my own travels to those locations.

I read some of the April articles like the one on scootering in North Carolina; “Meandering in Manitoba;” and, an excellent review of the KTM 950 Adventure motorcycle. The “review” rider rode the KTM over 23,000 miles, through some of the most rugged off-road trails and challenging on-road conditions. After reading it, I went off to do some Internet research on the KTM. It is stunning in bright orange and black. It’s a tall bike, but a lowering kit would make it possible to ride this with comfort. It was after this ride review that I remembered to read the second installment of, “Is Motorcycle Camping For You?” The article, which offers ten steps to “enjoyable” camping, is again, well-written and unequivocally informative. Perhaps that’s all one should expect? Clearly, the author doesn’t know/value/care—or something else that is invisible to me—about gender-specific camping matters. To be fair, he does have one paragraph called, “Match the Campsite to Your Needs,” which doesn’t address what I’m talking about but embedded there in the author’s words is a message on the importance of staying in campgrounds that suit your comfort needs. It’s a stretch, I know. But I’ve concluded that there is no point in denouncing the author. After all, you can’t know what you don’t know.

It’s interesting that the April editorial to the readers mentions how negative stereotypes of ‘cyclists as “marauding motorcycle gangs” have mutated as the numbers of “well-educated, safety-conscious motorcyclists” increase and more motorcyclists devote their ride events to good causes and charities. If I were the editor, who happens to be a Christa Neuhauser, a woman, I would have asked the camping author to go one step further, to include something—anything that he would want the women in his life to know about camping. Just one or two words would have been mindful.

Hives, and Sidi Boots

I've spent most of the past week itching. From the palms of my hands to the bottoms of my feet, I've been a splotchy swollen mess. I've had a severe case of Urticaria, better known as hives. I will spare readers the vile pictures and offer only one--one of the milder ones. I documented the eruptions for the doctor because the thing about hives is that they appear, hang around from minutes to hours and then disappear, leaving little or no trace of their visit. Sometimes, the eruptions are brutal as in my case, when the welts and raised and swollen red skin debilitate you for days, unresponsive to the over-the-counter anti-histamines. You spend your time wanting to rip off your skin or shoot yourself. Instead, you itch and scratch. Eventually, you remember from previous attacks that the scratching only exacerbates the eruptions. I woke up one morning and wondered why the room was still dark only to realize that my eyes were swollen shut and my face looked like a basketball. Fortunately, my throat was still open. It's at that point when you need to seek immediate medical care as anaphylatic shock is not far off. You've probably heard of people eating peanuts or shellfish only to have their throat close completely. Without an immediate administration of epinephrine, they could die. Hives are mysterious. While medical efforts focus on treating the symptoms, the sufferer is always left with the questions: Why and when next? Mine are brought on by many common allergens: most things in nature; mosquito and other insect bites; too much dairy; too much citrus; stress; hot water; cold air; dry air; wool; some cats and dogs; and, a few people. I received the prescribed drugs Wednesday and more on Thursday and I'm hanging in there.

Never once has my motorcycle brought on a hives attack; in fact, I think it has prevented more than a few! Speaking of which, my gal-pal is ready to be retrieved anytime now. Although we had considerable rain on Thursday, the temps were in the low 40s, and I would have ridden in that happily. When I arrived home on Thursday, a package awaited me. The Sidi On Road Gor-Tex boots had arrived. They are magnificent!
I tried them on and for 30 minutes I stomped around the house, admiring the perfect fit and smart styling. And, for the first time in a week, I did not notice the distressful itching and burning skin. My mind drifted to riding in my new all-weather boots, along beautiful rustic roads lined with trees and nature all around me, with my non-drowsy anti-histamine stored securely in my body and in my luggage.