a good set of soft bags set up properly won't melt.
i'm a pretty big fan of hard bags personally. i don't do any crazy off road (bike is a 600 lb big tenere) and it's nice having lockable storage. hard bags are super convenient to just leave on your bike for commuting and daily driving.
I have the factory yamaha hard bags. wish i had another set of jesse panniers like my last bike had.. but not quite worth 1300 bucks to me at the moment.
i run a cheap amazon waterproof duffle on the rear rack for big trips. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07SB7WZCL/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
really been pretty happy with the duffle. I suspect one could moto camp with that and a tank bag if one were to pack light. i'm kind of a "bring it, might need it!" camper.
I bought a retracting cable combination lock, which is actually a baby stroller lock. Small and pocketable. I bought this one because it had a long cable and was all black: Buggyguard Anti-Theft Retractable Stroller Lock, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007N0TS3K/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_b0IFub00DRMWP
We have ones that are very similar, and pack up pretty compact. We’ve taken them on all our moto camping adventures and they’ve been perfect.
Yes, Rok straps are fantastic. They attach by looping through themselves around objects, so you dont need to use the usual array of anchor points, though they are still available to you.
I have several tents, but the one the girlfriend and I used exactly as you're proposing when we camped the Black Hills last year was great. Let me look in my Amazon history. It fit our air mattress great and still had room for our bags. Not room for much else but what else do you need?
Edit : My bad, not Amazon - Walmart!
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-4-Person-Instant-Dome-Tent/36779515
Used with this air mattress :
https://www.amazon.com/Intex-68765E-Classic-Airbed-Pillows/dp/B000HBIL9O
This was the singularly most comfortable camping trip of my entire life.
It's the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Tent. Got it on amazon for a good price. Fast set-up, mostly mesh for ventilation but has a waterproof fly you can put over very quickly. If you're on a budget, fantastic tent.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BMKD1DU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The straps that hold it to the side racks carry no weight, they just keep the bags from flopping around over bumps. The top of the bags are connected together with heavy-duty velcro. It's really strong stuff, and I don't have any concerns about weight or load causing failures.
My mod also doesn't affect the bags weight capacity of these Chase Harper bags I got off Amazon
Brand is Moon Lence. Got it off Amazon for $50. I packs small enough for the bike, even fits in my pannier (tight). I wanted a high back for full lounge mode, it did not disappoint. The low back model is even cheaper.
Here's the one I got https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072SWPR9R/
I ran something like these for a few years before going with hard cases. That includes 9 day camping trips. Throw a duffel on top and you have more than enough.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006JMKJ5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_JfPdFb9WA3S32
Thank's I would say 17 inches long and 5 1/2 inches round.🏍 Here is a link to one like it.
Alps or Big Agnes for a tent (I like Alps), Thermarest pad (1" max) and a down sleeping bag (again Big Agnes). I'd also get a microfiber camp towel.
This is my pillow of choice, it's really good. https://www.amazon.com/Trekology-Ultralight-Inflatable-Camping-Travel/dp/B07MQJPVWD/
Pebble Time is on Amazon for about $100. I would also get the Richard Tracy HAMMER watch band to give you more holes so you can tighten it more.
If you don't have heated grips get something like this It gets cold!
I've ridden a 1965 Ducati 250 all the way round Australia. I'll be taking it across the US, Europe and Russia in a couple years. Thin tires and how light it is are good things. The Duc has enough power and "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" was written about a Honda 305.
I've taken the Duc up from Compton to Portland. Compton because that's the west coast port of entry when you ship a bike from Australia.
I took 1/101 for most of it. Small bikes are easily hidden so you can camp pretty much anywhere. I don't react to poison oak/ivy though.
The main thing that I bring that I was never told to bring, that I assembled myself, is a spare smartphone. I picked up a used smartphone over at swappa.com, on this phone there's a few key things:
offline maps (using the OsmAnd app which is free, maps are free, works with basically any android smartphone, not sure if there's an iOS equivalent, everything can be downloaded over wifi, and GPS still works for the maps, you can pay like $3 for a plugin to add contour lines to the maps)
PDF of the bike repair manual
most smartphones have a compass built in these days
I keep it in airplane mode to conserve battery
some smartphones have FM radio built in (I've forgotten how, but I had heard once about a guy who used this to help find directions when he was lost)
most smartphones these days have a flash for the camera which can be used for a flashlight if my actual flashlight dies
and of course any spare space I have music saved because why not
also, if my actual phone dies, this might still be a functioning backup, if the phone has a SIM slot that's great, if not, 911 always works if it's really an emergency.
I use the GPX viewer app which does a great at viewing GPX files on my android phone. There seems to be an app by the same name on the Apple store but I am not sure if it's the same one.
It's not cheap but I actually really like my Camelbak Mule mil spec one. I had an Osprey hydration pack for awhile too - but went back to the Mule as I just like the layout better.
This is the one I own and recomend: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QQVHWP3/
I originally had one back in military school in college that was camo. That was years ago now and I don't know what happened to it. Replaced it with that Osprey - which was okay but I never liked the pocket layout. Got this again when I wanted to treat myself at one point - went with the all black one. It's great for a day pack too and not too big.
You really want a small chair if there isn't a picnic table wherever you're going. Nothing sucks more than getting off the bike after a long ass day, then having to sit on the cold wet ground.
I like these because cheap.
I was riding through the Angeles National Forest. The tunnel is roughly here: https://maps.google.com/maps?q=34.316183,-118.136009&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x80c2ef3f61602e5d:0x2ecf131ac3e5a8bc,%2B34%C2%B0+18'+59.22%22,+-118%C2%B0+8'+9.62%22&gl=us&ei=ROl0UNCyL8eLiwKHsYBQ&ved=0CCIQ8gEwAA
update: I picked up this and installed it:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B08MLHJSGX
Looks and feels surprisingly solid and hefty. The backrest slides into the side brackets as well as the shelf, Everything is held together by 4 bolts that I put together with locktight. Uses the existing Harley quick-release system on my bike. I'll take it out with what's left of this year's riding and early next spring before going on a serious trip but it does look solid at 1/2 the price of comparable mail-order from Canada
I do exactly the same. I bough a medic pouch like THIS an strap onto the beaver tail. The contents I just took out of a normal first aid for the car an put them in a zip-lock bag, as the pouch is not waterproof.
Alternatively Molle Sticks are very good quickly remove molle bags.
You sir are my hero. I told my friend about using ammo boxes for side boxes and i got a, "why do I ride with this redneck?" look :) I just messaged him your photo and he asked if I had been hiding a Honda from him.
I'm looking at using two 40mm cans about 2x as big as the one you have. About like this http://www.instructables.com/id/Ammo-Can-Saddlebags/
Buy
Get your packet of food. If it's clumpy (eg rice) break it up with your hands while its closed. Pour it into your cook pot with a couple tablespoons of water. Cover, heat, and stir frequently until it's hot.
Eat out of the pot and scrape up every last bit. If needed pour a little water in there and really scrape up and eat every bit.
Heat a little water and a few drops of your soap and clean out the pot. Dispose of the water in the fire pit or garbage.
Rinse out the pot and air dry, wipe dry, or heat up some water for a hot drink
When you're done put all those things inside the pot and put on the lid.
I stopped carrying tire spoons, a flat tire would mean for me calling a tow truck. I changed tires by hand a while ago and its something I never want to do again with the big Harley wheels. It may be easier on a lighter bike, that being said do you know there are combination wrenches with a tire spoon on one side and a 19mm or 24mm wrench on the other? https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Dry-Spoon-Tire-Wrench/dp/B003UMDYNK this could save you some room in your toolbox maybe
This road atlas is a great starting point - all of the dirt roads in the sierra foothills. figure out your route on the map and then trace the route onto your GPS navigation software to make a GPX track - Then: GO FOR IT!
​
California Road and Recreation Atlas - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1734315032/ref=cm\_sw\_em\_r\_mt\_dp\_3V23NH72ZQM5YTH5MG3B
nothing fancy just some cheap tarp poles, didnt like how treking poles were so short so i got these.
I went with this style mainly because they are short enough to fit in my wolfman pole bag.
packing cubes are great for keeping your clothes organized. I always just put my tent and sleeping bag where the passenger would go. kinda acts as a nice backrest for long rides.
MIS 11 ft x 9 ft Hammock Rain Fly, Hex Green Hammock Tarp Rain Fly Waterproof, Backpacking Tent Footprint and Multifunctional Sun Shade Shelter Canopy – 4 in 1 Perfect for Survival Picnic Hiking https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T5WS9Y6/
This is the one I have. Works great.
This fits my Megamat just fine: Wild Heart Waterproof Bag 55L 66L 77L Motorcycle Dry Duffel Bag for Travel,Motorcycling, Cycling,Hiking,Camping (77L, Yellow) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078LQVNX1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_SD6409BDEBNXD5RPEY4W?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Not sure exactly what size you need but I use these bags in various sizes to pack my gear on my bike.
Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack, Sleeping Bag Dry Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NQDH2Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_E1XG0ZXSYBJ2YE6MRSHA
That is a pretty awesome setup! Mine looks pretty similar when I'm using the tent and not the hammock.
Might sound crazy but I just bring a bicycle pump meant for mountain bikes. Pretty light and don't have to worry about the battery.
I got into /r/lightweight and /r/Ultralight for backpacking. It's been really helpful for dialing in my moto camping gear too. I went from needing to setup a base camp before I hit the fun roads to not noticing the weight even being there.
No moreso than inside the bag. The bottle goes in a rolltop sleeve. And at any speed at all, the breeze would be sufficient even if it were open.
Nelson-Rigg RG-1060 Black Trails... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084B8V582
I just need to have it rechargable via USB. Im essentially looking for a cheaper option than the Anker Powerhouse 100.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWW2TRT/ This is the pigtail adaptor I have. It allows my insta360 battery charger to recharge a pair of batteries quite quickly.
Yeah I had accidentally clicked onto this thing https://www.amazon.com/NOCO-GB40-UltraSafe-Lithium-Starter/dp/B015TKUPIC/ because I had been looking at this stuff for a little while before post. So I was a bit confused as to why I was lookin at a jumper box that I already had looked at.
So the one you got, have you charged it at all via a battery tender--> USB?
That's the 2nd big detail I'm looking for, if I can charge it Via USB, then Im sold.
I have this thing and it’s amazing
I wonder if using a dc to USB cable would work. Something like [this]((https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003MQO96U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_N70CPP017R7KAHMN6RJH) (except I don’t know if 5v would do any hard, charge it extremely slow, or not charge it at all.)
DC to USC-C can handle higher wattage, so maybe you can get that with a usb c to usb 3.0 adapter?
I had the same issue. Last fall I bought this cheap tent here, I set it up in my yard to test it, but haven't spent a night in it yet so I can't give an opinion on it. The poles are just over 15" and fit in my tusk panniers.
I have the Nemo Tensor Ultralight and love it. Super light, super warm since it's three inches off the ground. I hate the Vortex bag to blow it up so just blow up normal.
Nemo Tensor Ultralight Sleeping Pad, Long Wide https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MTPYNFR
A fellow motocamper recommended this chair, that I’m considering. It stores compactly, doesn’t weigh much but supports a good weight, and one of the nicest features is its detachable wide feet, which will keep the chair from sinking into soft ground.
I saw the other recommendation for a camp chair, and for basically the same pack size, you get a much more comfortable chair. As someone that's been there, I'd really advise against a tripod stool type of thing to sit on. Here's my suggestion.
https://www.amazon.com/Cascade-Mountain-Tech-Lightweight-Headrest/dp/B07DYMG8XB/
I bought this book before the trip and planned my route via those roads. This obviously wasn't much of the route, so after we would finish one of the roads and have a couple of days to the next one we would literally just pick a curvy road off the highway that went in that direction. A lot of our trip was planned that day via iphone maps. Also had some Butler maps, they're great.
I have these Wild Heart saddlebags. They're not exactly premium but they're not terrible and have held up pretty good for a couple years now. I don't know how well they would work with your setup due to the lack of side racks, they might flop around a bit.
I know it can get expensive but if you get serious about camping and have a bit of cash laying around you should look at inflatable bedrolls and a better sleeping bag. They pack up way smaller and you'll be more comfortable.
if you have places on the bike where i should have specific wrenches, i'm happy to hear. i carry a 'full' complement of trailside tools but don't want to miss something specific
as far as the hatchet goes i carry a morakniv that works well for batoning wood into kindling
I started to blog here: https://visorpeel.com
I don't like ads and don't like fb/instagram so trying to grow a community of ad-free community of user submitted adventure stories.
As someone mentioned ADV rider has a great section too. And theres some nice write ups floating about the motorbike related subreddits.
For books I recommend Jim Rogers' Investment Biker: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B010814OVG/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0
Along the lines of the portable battery charger, I would also recommend this handy little charger. It plugs right in to a battery tender (SAE) cable and gives you a 2.1A USB plug. While a phone doesn't suck up a ton of juice, I'd advise idling the bike while charging just to make sure you don't end up with a flat battery somewhere you don't have a jump handy. It's probably the cheapest and easiest way to put a USB charger on a bike, and comes with the added benefit of making you install an SAE cable, which is also very handy to have.
Yeah that's the idea, just a little hard flat thing that you can turn into a cooking/eating surface using what you'll have. The campsites may or may not have amenities provided. I almost always camp at places that have potable water, a picnic table with benches, a critter-proof food locker, and a fire ring in each site. They take a little bit of the isolation and manliness out of the experience, but I'm usually camping with a couple girls in the group and girls seem to appreciate having toilets and showers even when they're off in the woods somewhere. For a first trip you'll find things like not having to pack clean water really handy, so if that's an option I'd go for it.
Another thing you might find really handy is this little charger that plugs right in to a battery tender plug. If you don't already have a battery tender plug for keeping your battery charged when you aren't riding for a bit, I recommend picking up one of those too. This thing will let you charge your phone or camera. A phone doesn't suck up a ton of juice, but since you may not have a jump handy I'd just idle the bike while charging to make sure you don't end up with a flat battery.
Take loads of pictures, man! Let us know how you liked the experience. Best of luck.
A GoPro, a digital voice recorder (grab a used Sony ICD-PX470), a lapel microphone, extra batteries for the GoPro, a USB charger for the batteries, a USB battery bank that fits in your packpack, multiple microSD cards, a small notepad and pen for taking notes, a free version of DaVinci Resolve.
Disclaimer: I work for a DaVinci competitor, but Resolve is perfectly fine for amateurs and paid alternatives aren't needed for this kind of thing.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H24D839/
This is the one I bought for ~$40, I also have a 40F sleeping bag and slept out when it was in the low 50's/ high 40's and kept waking up during the night to remove layers because I was so warm. Ended up sleeping in my boxers that night and still kept pretty warm so it definitely does the trick. I feel like with the right sleeping bag and some long john layers you'd easily be able to do low temps
My buddy Jim actually just showed me a new set he's looking at here. He said he saw another touring fz09 using them, and the rider highly recommended. I'm currently in a no-spending mood so I won't be picking them up until Spring if I do, but they seem like a great deal.
Looks like Vuz Moto VUZ-MT Waterproof 12-Foot 3-Person Camping Tent with Integrated Motorcycle Port, 4 Points of Entrance, Green and White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CC4P75W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_W94TA2AHCHJQ7FPCSCQR
While there hasn’t been much camping or proper long haul road tripping in my life I do have a bit of an advantage with light packing- I travel a lot for work and tend to live in very tight shared quarters. Even with a few years experience of carting my life around in that red dry bag I’ve still found I packed superfluous shit.
One thing though- especially if you use top loading storage- I got a six of these kinda things for my clothes and toiletries:
It’s so easy to grab the right bag, pull out what you need, zip it back up again and pack it away neatly. Keeping everything tidy from the get go has made this super easy and for sure helps keep my pack compact!
Nice video. What camera is that? I'm thinking about getting a table like this.
Best Option would be to simply get several Multi-SD card packs from Amazon. Not a bad deal and it actually means less weight to carry but you do want a multicard case such as this that holds Six CF/12 SD/18 MicroSD
This is going to go over like a fart in church, but I have been using a regular old Coleman Sundome 2-person tent for years and it's worked great even in wind and rain. They're just $50, they set up in five minutes, they pack (fairly) compactly, etc.
I'm still trying to find something with the $400-$500 tents that makes them worth the extra money.
For moto camping I have loved this one, you can find fuel at plenty of box stores if you need more on the road. The fuel canister is larger than the stove when it is in the travel container.
Aqua Quest White Water Duffel - 100% Waterproof, Heavy Duty, Versatile, Comfortable - Durable Protective Dry Bag for Travel, Sport, Motorcycle, Boat, Fishing - 50, 75, or 100 L https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VHFKK4P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_Wom7FbG4MFRM9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got one of these dry bags and it can hold a lot of gear. Just put it on the bottom and tie It to a sissy bar and you can keep on stacking on top
This is fine, but at high speed, it'll push your levers and turn off the cruise control, but fine otherwise. I got the minimalist barkbusters also so cruise isn't a problem.
blue--net Motorcycle Grip Handlebar Muff Winter Warmer Thermal Cover Glove Pair Waterproof Cold-Proof Windproof Thick Motorcycle Handlebar Glove Windshield Gloves
by clarifylay
Learn more: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07GYRPL7T/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_yUd1Fb3NR7HQB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I rode for several hours in 30 degree weather and after hallucinating being in a bath for the last hour I got this. This one I thought I'd try because it runs off any decent powerbank with USB A.
I have a few 10,000 Anker powerbanks and I love the vest. I like that it doesn't have a collar and to answer a question in this thread, it runs for several hours on medium, which is pretty darn warm. I wear it over my base layer and it's quick to heat and change heat levels. I'm super happy with it!
Sorry I lied, I actually the 3-4 person version of the tent which is just enough room for two adults and all our gear.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YKVR8KL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_pWVQFbMP7QZGC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Cheapo thing from amazon. Its amazing. I really liked it cus I can remove it easily, and it holds almost any size bottle because of the way it straps.
Fly screen won't do much, it was too small for me. I use a Puig universal windscreen. 60$ and it gets all the wind off my chest. Unfortunately, I am 6'2 and it puts it on my forehead, but I prefer it and if my head gets tired i take it off, strap it to my bag, and let my chest wear out as my neck rests. I ride comfortable for 6 hours a day on the set-up I linked to, the last 2 hours can be annoying if the previous 6 hours was all high way. If it was all back roads at 65 and under I could ride forever.
I don't know what it is like to tour on a large and faired bike so I don't know if I am missing out. But I can guess that my Bonneville is so much more fun. ^(I might be biased.)
So I actually carry two pumps with me. The first is for inflating tires and it runs off the bike's battery. The thing with tire pumps is that they are designed for high pressure, low volume jobs, and you'd take forever/burn it out if you used it to inflate a mattress.
So I also carry a smaller pump which has a lithium battery and recharges off of micro usb. This pump is great for inflating the pad (or a pool inflatable!), but the best thing about it is that it blows so much air that you can use it to stoke your campfire! It has saved my ass getting damp wood going more than once. Here's a link to the second pump https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DCPMZQG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
40L dry sack, and a 115L hard topcase. Some Rok Straps to hold anything else in place.
Former is only when needed, the case stays on almost all the time.
Motorcycle finger squeegees. Unless you have higher end gloves with a built-in squeegee, these things are great for rainy weather. I live in the tropics and keep one in my jacket pocket at all times. Alternatively, you can get a piece of old windshield wiper rubber and sew it to the forefinger of your glove.
Used bicycle innertube. After 16 years of riding and using bungee cords, nets, straps of various types, I moved to Asia. On one of my first tours a strap broke. A friend whipped out an old innertube and threw it to me. Cheapest, most reliable strap I've ever used. And, you don't even have to knot it, just wrap it around itself and the tension will hold it tight. Six years later, that same inner tube is holding strong.
Spare key. Give it to a friend or stash it in a bag.
Gasoline camp stove and 1-2 fuel bottles. A gasoline burning stove allows you to have an emergency backup fuel supply. Everything needs to be multi-use and if you can carry one or two cans of fuel with dual purposes, bonus.
Emergency jump powerbank. If you're not all riding bikes with kickstarts, it would be good if someone has a power source for charging. Jumper cables are a cheaper alternative, but take up more space.
Extra inner tubes for tubed tires and/or tire patch kit for tubeless. If you're all riding the same bike, not everyone needs a backup set of tubes (but it wouldn't hurt). In a pinch, you can throw a tube in a tubeless tire and make it home. Someone's gotta carry the tools also, but not everyone.
I have this chair and love it, it's a much cheaper but equivalent version of the insanely expensive brand name ones. They also make little stool style chairs that are even smaller, but don't have back support.
Sorry for the link, I'm on mobile.
What everyone else has said... use the bike.
A key feature of whatever you choose should include a power switch. Some of these chargers draw a small amount of current even when nothing is connected to it. I left one of these that was connected directly to my battery in the on position without a device attached and it deep discharged my bike's battery beyond recovery (this was many weeks if not a couple months, by the way).
I'd also recommend looking for devices - chargers and battery banks - that support Qualcomm QC 3.0 quick charge. It's the gold standard for rapid, intelligent charging for most Android phones. Apple has a quick charge standard of their own that I have no experience with.
Here's what's worked for me:
CHAFON Motorcycle USB Fast... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087JCWX5Q
SAE To USB Adapter Motorcycle -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078FTSJWJ
Good luck and have a great time on your trip!
The one I use is an older version of this.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B002X797TS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_tHcsFbM91PJAF
The only difference is mine has a removable digital pressure checker, so I don't need to plug it in to check pressure.
Edit: It's actually this one.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B008CM7CYA/ref=psdcmw_2485553031_t3_B002X797TS
On the rack of the top box is the Kurakyn Grand Pet Palace. In the photo, the door is open (facing the camera). I bought mine from Amazon but the price is back to MSRP. I bought it earlier in the year for $220 and honestly it's worth it. Depending on your bike set up, you can either secure it on the back rack like we did, or if you have a sissy bar you can strap it with 2 buckle straps on the back of the pet carrier. Let me know if you have any (specific) questions. :)
Here's the link:
I know it’s not exactly what you’re looking for but this tent has the smallest poles I could find on amazon (14”). I use a smaller stuff sack for the tent and just pack the poles separately so it packs down pretty small and fits in my top case.
https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Salida-Camping-Backpacking-Tent/dp/B00NFCFO0Q/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=kelty%2Bpagoda%2B2&qid=1565751951&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0&th=1 This is the one I have been using, not as big as my old 3, but the poles are perfect sized. In super hot, could use more mesh, perfect 3 season tent. Enough room for all my gear and vestibule for boots, and drybag.
They're not the only supplier, just Google IBLE Sealline dry bag. There are a lot of suppliers.
https://www.ebay.com/b/Seal-Line-Bag-In-Current-Military-Bags-Packs/156459/bn_7022535552
ILBE Sack, 65L - Olive Green (Main) (Retail Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002PWFSK8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WrhVCbWC80VS9
I've been using MapFactor GPS Navigation on my Android phone. You can download offline maps. Great since I can't always get a cell signal.
I use this tent. I take it moto camping and backpacking. If you have extra money a little lighter would be nicer, but this has held up very well for me and I can set it up in under 5 minutes easily, and I can take it down in about the same time. I've camped in snow, rain, desert heat, mosquito hell, rainforests, Alpine Meadows, you name it. Gimmicky stuff is tempting but always adds unnecessary complication and is more likely to break.
Helinox has a set of accessory balls to put on the chair's feet, they're expensive as hell though. https://www.amazon.com/Helinox-Accessory-Ball-Feet-Black/dp/B00JWD2KWM/ref=sr_1_23?ie=UTF8&qid=1515927692&sr=8-23&keywords=helinox
Yeah that walking stick looks dangerous! I hope you don't do any lane splitting or riding through narrow passages with that thing strapped on haha. Ever thought about getting a collapsible one?
That sounds like a smart move, getting a lower-miles copy of your current bike to be the future host of its soul!
I had a pretty easy and fun time building my tail rack, and it's extra huge and has its own lights since the luggage obscures my onboard lights. Here's a few pics of it on my Instagram page. I happened to find a car luggage rack at goodwill for $6 and I chopped it up and welded it together, then installed some cheap LED signals from Wal-Mart with a trailer wiring harness going under the seat. Works great! Tho I'm not sure how bright they are in full sun. The only real problem with this is it's easy to overload the bike and your center of gravity goes way high (and further backward). Our total weight was around 1,000lb/450kg, exceeding the bike's capacity by at least 50lb/23kg... It was very awkward to control at low speed especially on dirty mountain roads and parking slopes. But I didn't crash or drop the bike.
Anyway, we went to the Denver, Colorado area for a week! It's about 625mi/1000km from our embarking point in Iowa, so it was my first really long ride.. about 1,450mi/2300km in total.. Went into the mountains and camped a little, and stayed with my gf's grandparents there too. I discovered I really enjoy the zoned out meditative long riding on highways even if nothing interesting is happening.
Does your username have anything to do with the book Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance?
Thanks for the encouragement Internet friend.
I have a copy of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance waiting for me at the library. So this trip still requires a lot of self-reflection, planning, budgeting, and research.
Hey, thanks for the lengthy write up! Sorry I didn't reply earlier. It read a little like Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance (although perhaps with a little less zen). I guess you can never be too prepared on ADV trips like that. Gonna try doing that run again?
I suggest the Platypus filter instead of water tabs. Takes up more space but the water tasts better and has a longer use. Plus if you are like me and allergic to iodine then you can't use the water tabs at all. https://www.amazon.com/Platypus-GravityWorks-Water-Filter-System/dp/B00A9A2HKM/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1512655845&sr=8-18&keywords=water+filter+kit
Buy these. Use one to practice and see how it works and how far it sprays. Keep the other close at all times. Sure helps me feel more comfortable that I've got something in case an animal (or a person for that matter) decides they want to mess with me or my stuff.
I rock this because I am a cheap bastard. Works great. Folds up and fits in my backpack with no issues.
Sweet dude! Thanks for the super detailed info and pics. Looks like a relatively cheap way to get out there and go!
I'm thinking I'll follow your plan and try to grab something that almost fits from another bike/eBay and retrofit the bitch to the frame. The only option Triumph offers is this tiny turd of a seat for $350.
Here's my mamma jamma: http://i.imgur.com/p9weAJU.jpg
Right, commercial MREs are quite expensive. My MREs are military surplus, purchased on the cheap years ago. Still, I wouldn't want to be eating them all the time. My plan was to have one for dinner after I set up camp, then another to get going in the morning, cheap dining otherwise. I don't want to have to carry cooking gear or deal with washing up.
I had considered an air mattress, but some are a little bulky. This one: https://www.amazon.com/Inflatable-Sleeping-Comfortable-Insulated-Backpacking/dp/B01MUA03L6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1501534473&sr=8-2&keywords=semi+inflating+pad
is probably OK, packs down reasonably small if the listed specs are to be believed.
The Minipresso with a hand grinder is my go to. For portable coffee. I actually carry one on the daily in my bag to work. MiniPresso GR Espresso Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VTA9F6U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_uHcNzbENJM3MN
Do not cut into or splice off of your wire harness. Get a battery tender pigtail that connects directly to your battery (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NCOKZQ/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_-1cAzb8YDMYBC). Then use a 'Battery Tender SAE to USB adapter to plug a USB cable into (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DJ5KEF4/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_r3cAzbN5DASR2). This was you can charge you bike when parked for a while and have the freedom to run the USB cable to your bars for your ram mount or into your bags to charge extra gear.
Could you elaborate a bit on the repeater idea and achieving a longer range?
I found this one on amazon here in canada that is apparently identical to a Baofeng: https://www.amazon.ca/Retevis-RT-5R-Handheld-Original-Earpiece/dp/B00JZJI7LQ/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1499375613&sr=8-9&keywords=Baofeng However the range is listed as 6km.
How do you get help with this? Basically you'd have to communicate with another HAM radio user and have them call for help?
I'm worried that in the areas I ride (Northern Ontario) there won't even be any radio operators to communicate with. My most likely chance is communicating with logging truck drivers, likely through a CB channel. If this radio can do CB channels, or a portable CB radio instead, that might be my best bet.
Hey sorry, been on the trip! That is an extremely affordable childrens bag i found on amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01C8L6Z2U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Ive made threads about it on reddit and triumphrat and loooove seeing these out in the wild. enjoy!
Well it did rain, and I kept my boots centered under the hammock and tarp. The rest of my stuff would have fit there and would have been fine. I have a cheap and light 8x10 ground tarp that I could have put down and folder half over my gear to keep it pretty rain proof.
That night, I put my helmet and jacket in my top case and my pans in my soft bag (just forward of the top case.) That was easier. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Realistically I just carry a fuel bottle for the stove with some gasoline in it. That way I can run the stove, but if I need it there's also a little spare fuel for the bike.
If I need to move it back and forth, a few feet of this: https://www.lowes.com/pd/EASTMAN-3-8-in-x-20-ft-PVC-Clear-Vinyl-Tubing/1000180543 Will make a siphon just fine.
ETA: These are the fuel bottles that the stove uses: https://www.amazon.com/MSR-MSRFUELBOTT-Fuel-Bottle/dp/B002L1413S
I'll help. That's an Alps Mountaineering tent, probably a Meramac model. I have the two person version of this and really like it. As a 6'3" guy who seems to enjoy camping in the rain, this tent has served me very well for 2 years so far. Edit - like someone posted earlier this seems to be the Lynx
I took a chance and bought this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NOM03OO/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_XwBpzbKN6VSBG Last year and I was pleasantly surprised by it. It's basically a Chinese copy of the REI equivalent
Thanks! Good to know. I was thinking about picking up a Camelbak. Still not sure. I hope to try out my equipment in the next couple weeks. I got one of those Thermarest camping pillows. It seems to compress really well. Hopefully that's not the pillow you found to suck!
I have one similar to this.
Bought it locally. It rolls up about 6" diameter, 18" long. I also attache a plastic hammer to it so I can always find my stake hammer.
Claims it's two person. You'd have to like each other. But it's good for me & my gear.
Awesome. I rode a DR650 on the TAT a few years ago and wrote about it.
I stay in the States (at least for now), and have this first-aid kit with me.
It's not perfect certainly, but I ride street and don't get far from civilization. I adore how compact these kits are.
Merino. Effin'. Wool.
People socks, in particular, seem to be the best deal running. I bought a bunch of 'em and they held up really nicely over a three month trip mostly spent in Keens. Wore 'em a couple days in a row, no problem, no stink.
They're absurdly comfortable, warm in the cold and reasonably cool in the heat. I can't say enough about 'em.
Also, put your dirty and clean laundry in separate bags.
Something like this should do. It's cheap chinese stuff, but it does the job for relatively cheap. No solar charger will charge your phone as fast as a wall outlet, but it does just fine for me if I leave it in the sun about 5 hours.
ive had good charge rate with anker 21W 2x usb port solar charger. the panels arent rigid. so, it feels reliable. i seem to get better efficiency charging to a lithium battery then using the battery to charge my devices. https://www.amazon.com/Anker-2-Port-Universal-PowerPort-Charger/dp/B012YUJJM8
took it on a 7day hiking trip and my phone & camera never died. i wouldnt attach it to my bike though. This is what i use on my speed triple. 2.1A: https://www.3brpowersports.com/products.php
Awesome! I'm glad it worked out for you. I will warn you that mine eventually failed after a 2 month cross country trip. I imagine the elements got to it. I went ahead and ordered one of these and just installed it on my bike. I ran it through a switch so I can cut power in heavy rain or when not using. I put the USB output on the side of my dash cluster with some double sided tape. It seems to charge much better as well.
If you want a serious all around pack, I got an Osprey Stratos 50l. While it's meant for backpacking, it works well if you sit upright on your bike and you don't have a tailbag or box that is too close to your back. Also, it has a warranty that will cover any damage for any reason forever. It also has a built in rainfly, a pouch for a camelback, and zippered pockets on the waist strap.