So I'll be leaving my job in mid-March of this year to do a year or two of service work starting around August, and in the meantime I'll be riding my motorcycle across the country! Welcome to my blog where I'll be documenting the trip, my experiences, thoughts, musings, etc. for the next few months.
So, stealing from the opening scene of The Motorcycle Diaries, here's the idea:
The Rider:
Brian Becker. 24 years old, recent college grad, and ready to get out on the road.
I took this picture in the store because I was laughing at how ridiculous I looked in those leather chaps.
The Equipment:
A 2001 Yamaha V Star 650 Classic. I got this bike last fall after fantasizing over owning a motorcycle for as long as I can remember. I bought her with about 18,000 miles and have added on another 2,000 since then. She's in great shape; the previous owners were very good about maintenance and cleaning.
The Plan:
I guessing at least 10,000 miles in about 6 weeks. I'm planning to avoid highways as much as possible. While I am extremely thankful for Mr. Eisenhower's interstate system, getting from point A to B quickly is not important on this trip. "Thanks to the Interstate Highway System, it is now possible to travel from coast to coast without seeing anything," said Charles Kuralt.
One of the reasons I'm doing this trip is to see and spend some time with friends who have moved in the last couple years, but most places, I don't know anyone. So if you have a couch or floor I could borrow for a night along the way, or if you know someone that you could put me in touch with, I would be very grateful.
Thanks for reading and I'd love to hear from you. You can either comment on this page or send me an email at brianmotorcycletrip@gmail.com. Thanks!
Going to the Sun highway in Glacier National Park (MT) is a CAN'T MISS- my brother and I rode it's length in the bed of a pickup truck, and it was incredible.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great adventure! The Bard's will be following your blog! Have fun and be safe!
ReplyDeleteGod Bless,
Kathy & Paul
Nice! Sounds like a great trip. You should plan to stop in Hermann on your return route (which would be between instructions 174 & 175 on your posted route - MO Hwy 19, exit 175 on I-70, then 15 miles South.) Hermann is beautiful in April and we have some neat events here then too. We would love to see you and there are real beds available...no floor or couch sleeping needed!
ReplyDeleteAlso, I can help with good back roads recommendations for parts of your route. Have fun!
Brian!!!!
ReplyDeleteI am so excited for you! Do you think I can instal a car-seat on the motorcycle and Michael and I can come along with you? Ha ha ha. I have a friend that lives in Ann Arbor Michigan right now and I e-mailed her your stuff. I will definately be following you. Make sure to take a lot of pictures and keep this updated!!!!
Love,
Clarissa
Hey Brian,
ReplyDeleteWe'll be praying for your safe travels! I have a close friend in Seattle. If you're looking for a place to stay there, let me know & I'll get in touch with him.
Take care,
Uncle Rich
Brian
ReplyDeleteDad's still excited for you, envious as he can be, and hoping you have a great time.
I think there might be someone in DC who can put you up... Prayers for you.
Have fun!
Yo Brian,
ReplyDeleteHappy To hear that you're doing something fun! You sound just like Jack, always wanting to go traveling with friends somewhere..
Hope you have some safe and fun times,
Will