1040 miles, is it okay to go on a long trip?

[CHEMIKER]

I know I'm late to the party, but in case you ever do make the trip...

I like CanadianFZ6's recommendation of a plug kit, in addition you should bring something to pull out a nail/whatever if you need to, and a hand pump to re-inflate the tire. You can use a compact bicycle pump, it'll take you forever and you'll hate life but it's lightweight and will get the job done in an emergency.

Bring assorted mini fuses and headlight bulbs too. Between that and a tire repair kit, that's going to cover common problems and most of what you can do on the side of the road anyway. Most everything else will require a tow.

If it were me I'd bring a tinted visor rather than clip ons, but don't forget your clear one for night time, and be prepared to stop and switch them.

Bungeeing your backback to the passenger seat will work fine.

Sounds like you've already made your mind up about your helmet. Earplugs are your friend regardless of helmet.

a nice bright red sticker that says "55" on your speedo will help remind you not to speed. tix suck !

I agree with the tickets suck sentiment, but the limit on that road is 70mph (or 75, I can't remember). Either way, tickets do suck, but the limit on I5 is generous for California.

 

[lonesoldier84]

1) what better way to break the bike in

Isn't holding it at one speed in one gear a terrible way to break it in?

 

[Norbert]

Isn't holding it at one speed in one gear a terrible way to break it in?

yup.
good point. nice catch.

 

[sohail]

Already got a tire plug kit. I'll get some extra fuses though, that's a good one!

Extra tools so far:
Pliers
Wire Cutter
Zip Ties
Assorted Bungee cords
Flash light
Air gauge
mini-scissors
pen


BTW, I just changed the oil and cleaned the chain, so the bikes ready to go. Just need to get a helmet and/or clip on sun glasses...I may have to forego a better jacket and boots this time around.

So, tomorrow, i'll check out what's available from the local shops. The trip takes place on saturday, so if I can't find a decent helmet in time, I'll just plan out the san diego trip again, my girlfriend lives there!

Thanks for the recommendations and giving me a better perspective!

 

[FIZZER6]

Isn't holding it at one speed in one gear a terrible way to break it in?

This is true. But he is already well over 1,000 miles...on new bikes that is enough for a break in...engines are made with much finer tolerances than they were 20 years ago...3,000 or 5,000 miles break-ins are in the past.