Blog Adventure USA

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2011-10-10T08:54:00.002Z

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Connecticut Or Bust 16.7.09

2009-08-10T20:50:00.003Z

I'm up for 0600 as it's going to be a long day and I hope to hit Connecticut tonight and catch up my good friends Bri and Dee. I'm packed and ready to go by 0645. Rick, Karen and Shelby have all got up early to see me off and even the peanut butter princess makes an appearance too.

I will really miss these people. A lot.

I hit the road and get onto route 2. It's nice and quiet due to the early start, there again there is no traffic here at the best of times. I want to try and make some progress as the forecast is for heavy thunderstorms anywhere south of the US border. Deep joy.

I blast along 2 east of Moncton then take route 1 to keep closer to the coast. If there's any breeze from the ocean it might just keep the inland rain heading my way at bay a little longer.

The run through Sussex county is ok though a little dull mainly due to the fact I'm not sightseeing today. I hit St John about 0830. This is a regular start/stop point for cruise ships but sadly there's none in the port today so I crack on along route 1 towards Calais.

River at Pocologan.

The border crossing at Calais takes about 15 minutes. The young lady asks the usual questions and for some reason calls all her colleagues to come look at the plate on the bike...and the giraffe. The passport is stamped and I'm away.

I stop in Calais for what will probably be my last look at Canada. The small lighthouse is in Canada, the bike in the US.

From Calais I take the airline road route 9 toward Brewster. Although I was told this is a truckers route there's little traffic on it today. It is however a nice route to ride. Through Alexander, Crawford, Wesley and Beddington until I need to gas up and find a little station come store in Amherst.

After fuelling up it's onward to Brewster. Despite the dull, but increasingly humid, weather this is a lovely stretch. The highway eventually gets a little busier toward Brewster and 1 then merges into I-95.

By this time I'm getting the shakes as my need for my noon Tim's fix is rapidly approaching. I can't remember if I stopped at Newport or Waterville but either way there was a Tim's and a soup combo for me 12 o'clock rations!

Sitting inside the restaurant you notice the small groups of bikers who use Tim's as a meeting place for posing and other activities. What I can't fathom is why anyone would want to ride one without a crash helmet. Undoubtedly it's not state law here. I still see no valid reason why a pesron would want to swop a head for a crushed melon. The 'freedom to choose' is a poor excuse when youre dead...

Although I don't want to move it's spitting with rain so off we go. It's 95 and 295 all the way south through Freeport, Yarmouth and Falmouth until I eventually come to Kitt and Portsmouth Harbour and the Piscatagua Bridge. I rode over her in 2006 twice. Never thought I would ever do it again. Like back home Portsmouth is an historical dockyard. I always wanted to visit which means I will have to come back again!

From Portsmouth it's a quick blast along 95 and into the state of Massachausetts. From Newburyport through Boxford, past Danvers and Peabody we come onto the dreaded 95 loop around Boston. For some reason I always torture myself and take this route knowing that life would be so much simpler if I took the 495 loop. However my brain remain in neutral and its 95 we go.

By now the weather is incredibly hot and humid and the increasingly heavy traffic isnt helping my circulation either. Slowly but surely I'm turning into a KFC.

It doesn't help when you arrive at rush hour either...

It takes forever to get south of the city and for the traffic to ease but ease it does. After the slow crawl around Boston its time to make up the miles. 95 isn't the most interesting place so its head down until we come to the outskirts of Pawtucket and the state line with Rhode Island.

From here its a straight run south and east toward my final destination. Auburn, Warwick and Nooseneck and then finally into Connecticut and hope is in sight. Through Hope Valley and onto New London where they even have a River Thames how cool is that!

One final push and I make it to my good friends Bri and Dee in Clinton. I have no idea what time I get there but I was knackered when I did! 680 miles.

Although I'm glad to be back with my buds here it signals the end of a fantastic 3 weeks in Canada. I will miss it a lot. Wide open spaces, unbelievable scenery and fabulous people, some of whom I can now count on as my friends. I miss them already. Trips like these are not just about the places you visit but the people you meet. I have met some wonderful people.

Off For A Last Spin 14.7.09

2009-08-06T21:12:00.000Z

Sunday is a day for sorting out my kit and having ridden a few miles over the past days I decide not to take a ride. The shipping papers I was promised last week have duly arrived however I need some further info from the company so can't complete them until tomorrow morning.

Unfortunately Rick is working until 7 ish but as always my ever willinghosts won't allow me to sit idly by and I hitch a ride with Karen into Moncton to try and get some odds and sods to take home.

This is the Tigers (local ice hockey team) coach and is pretty damned cool close up.

Although cloudy it's very humid and not really shopping weather so we wizz off to the Fundy area and backtrack to try and find Crooked Creek lookout as both Rick and Karen want to visit themselves but we couldnt work out exactly where it was. We eventualy find it after half an hour and this time take the lower road out of the lookout point. Its rock, gravel and mud but doesn't look too bad for the 'truck' to traverse. Although there are no direction signs we reckon it has to go to the valley floor so we take a gamble.

Fortunately we guess right and find a few more people further down the track which runs for about 4 km. At the bottom is the creek itself. The water is crystal clear and although pretty low it must turn into a torrent in the spring looking at the dry river tributary that runs alongside it. It is utterly peaceful.

Well it was. This was the last of six Jeeps that came thundering up the track. What an absolute blast!

From the creek we drive along toward the Fundy park entrance and find Mary's Point (more later) then to Alma and take refreshments. On the way back I can't believe me eyes when one of these appears in a garden. Llama or alpaca I have no idea. Either way I didn't expect to see one in Canada.

As is the ritual here I'm totally spoilt and have the world's best nosh ups. Alaskan crab legs, fresh salmon, peaches n cream, skerr berr trifle and very cold Corona.

Here are my good buds Rick and Karen...

I have no idea what I said but obviously it was bad....

Can you see Karen's several empties stage right...what a night!

Monday duly arrives and it takes a few hours to finally get through to New Jersey and the shipping forms are duly completed. I now don't need to go to New York until Monday to pay my dues so I can relax a little. The sun is out (most unusual!) so I decide it's time to strip the bike and attempt to remove 2 weeks of Canadian crud.

Fortunately I'm ably assisted by Shelby, Canada's favourite retard, and after a couple of hours I can see once again what colour the bike actually was. Apart from the tar deposits everything else has come off with a bit of elbow grease. Shelby has done a crackin' job of the wheels too but don't tell her I said so...

Time for some new decals too. You wouldnt believe how hard it was to find vinyls.

Along with any manual job it needs a supervisor...guess who volunteered?

It was all to much for the freeloader...Rick won't be too impressed either he's drinking his stash!

After another A1 BBQ I can no longer move without assistance so its time for a walk into town. Shediac is growing on me. It's a nice seaside town and in the summer it appears there's a festival of some sorts on very week so it's always lively. The whole town, including the gas station, is decked in lights at night. Nice touch.

Rick and Karen have the bay at the bottom of their street. I would kill for that...

On Tuesday the clan are all at work so I make a decision to take one last ride in New Brunswick before I head off east back to the USA early Thursday. I have various options but decide to revisit some areas I've been to previously where the weather spolit the pics. I head off down the highway to Moncton via the back roads through Dieppe.

I'm waiting at a red light when I get a tap on my shoulder. There's a guy in his fifties standing right next to me. "Where you from" England I reply "Great. Enjoy your stay in Canada" and with that he got back into his car. He typified everyone I met in Canada. They all wanted to know where the plate was from and how I'd got the bike here etc etc . Really nice folks.

I follow the Chocolate river and head toward Fundy taking the 114. Through Lower Cloverdale, Stoney Creek and into Hillsborough which seems a nice town.

Hopewell Cape, Mountville, running along the bay until Sawmill Creek Covered bridge (1905) in Albert County.

Into Riverside-Albert which gives me the chance to visit Lookout Creek and get some better snaps.

From here I take the Fundy coastal drive looking out over the Lars Larsen Marsh.

Toward Marys Point is the Harvey Tidal Dam and historic shipbuilding site.

This is a monument to some 18 ships that were built in this area the first named "Revolving Light" after the first lighthouse with a revolving light in the area. Its 196 feet long, like the original but only a third of it's width.

The original was shipwrecked in early 1900 of the coast of the Netherlands (I think) and its timbers were used to build a large farmhouse. A few years ago the present owner of the farm started to research where the timbers had come from and after many months found they had come from this same ship. Canadia TV made a programme about the story.

How they travellled the Atlantic in these things is beyond me. Brave souls indeed.

Anderson Hollow Lighthouse sits on the same site.

From here I continue along the 915 toward Alma. There's a gravel causeway that joins both the headlands but I haven't the heart to use it after Shelby spent so much effort on the wheels so we stay on the tarmac.

Through New Horton, Little Ridge and toward Cape Parlour. The road is fanstastic as it dives into the small capes and then rises steeply out into the surrounding cliffs.

There's a small turn off that leads up onto the highest cliff to one of my favourite spots...

Heading out of the cape looking toward Germantown Marsh way into the distance.

Busy isn't it...

Back into Riverside-Albert and the Old Bank of New Brunswick.

The trip back is a reverse journey and I get back about seven. Just in time to see my two fave Harley riders arrive back from P.E.I. Don't they look cool... and their bikes are nice and shiny still too!

After eating another food mountain it's a walk down to the bay and a wobble around the little Marina.

I have no idea who these people are but they were walking along the bay road talking some strange Franglais. All I could make out was "peanut butter" and "diet". The rest just lost me...

This is to be my last night in Canada and more importantly my last with my good friends here in Shediac. I will miss their warmth that makes you feel like instant family, their boundless generosity, and their friendship above all else. Trips like these are not necessarily about the places you've seen but more about the people you meet and the lasting memories they create. Rick Karen Janice and Guy will remain my good friends always...

Shediac Or Bust 11.7.09

2009-07-22T00:49:00.011Z

It's a beautiful start to the day and I get all my gear together and on the bike, tank up and make my way from St Anne Des Monts this time along the 299 into the heart of the Parc de la Gaspesie. The original idea was to head for Matame further east along the coastal route but I changed my mind this morning and decided to make inland straightaway and it turns out to be one of my better decisions.

It doesn't take long before I head into the mountains towards Cap Seize. The weather is tremendous, the roads completely deserted and I don't see a living soul for the next 40 miles or so. Even the moose stay away.

The Route du Parc is without a doubt one of the highlights of the trip. Through acres of unspoilt forest past Mont Albert, Mont Olivine and Mont 'Hog's Back'. The river follows the road to my right for the entire ride and is absolutely crystal clear. The problem with roads like this is you simply can't help but stop and take in the view. You could spend a week just touring this road checking out the gravel roads that lead off into nowhere, les chutes and the countless walking trails.

There is no excuse for anyone who lives in the eastern provinces to not come visit the Gaspe and ride this road, even if they're riding a HARLEY. Dump the trailer in Carleton or New Richmond a come ride. You won't be disappointed. Wussies...

For those back home this might look like a sign for a coffee grinder but in fact it's telling you the tarmac is about to end abruptly and turn into gravel.

....and trust me this is the good stuff in comparison to what I've ridden over so far this trip.

Sadly all good things come to an end and we drop out of the hills into Grande Cascapedia and back onto route 132 taking the rute we took a few days ago back toward New Brunswick but in reverse.

It doesn't take long to get to the province border and its au revoir Quebec and bonjour New Brunswick

Back over the Pointe A La Croix and into Campellton.

From Campellton I hit Route 11 at Sugarloaf as it's time to make up some miles. I spot the troopers who are covering both sides of the median and slowly disappear out of sight.

For those of you at home these signs are to scale. A moose is a 1000lbs+ of pure stupidity and you really don't want to tangle with one. If yousee a dear in the road head for it, by the time you get there it will have seen you and jumped out of the way. Moose don't jump. Hit one and it will rip a car in two.

Can you imagine a council in England allowing you to paint your house lime green...I think not. After filing up with gas I put the camera away as I don't intend to take more photos for a while as it tends to slow me down to much. It's a decision I will later regret.

The main highways can be a tad tiresome and apart from the trees, death wish truck drivers and the miles and miles of moose fence there is little else to do only daydream. The strong wind that has picked up makes life a little more interesting though.

I'm heading toward an overhead intersection when about 200 yds in front of me from the nearside comes a black bear (it looked black to me ) followed by two cubs. They run across the highway and into the brush. Like a complete loon I drop anchor and come to a sudden stop on the shoulder right were she disappeared. Camera out. Only a complete berk would sit there hoping she'll pop out for a family photo. Tourists huh?

I know that there is a slipway the other side of the brush. I'm tempted to ride the wrong way up the shoulder but even I'm not that stoopid so I wait for the traffic and spin the bike around and ride back up the road about 50 yds. I pull over again and look up the slipway and there she is standing in the middle no more than 30 yds away.

Her right leg is off the floor and she is looking directly at me. Even though she's still thin after hibernation she has a head the size of me shed and looks bloody enormous to me. Out comes the camera and as I size her up a truck thunders by and scares her and she's away into the thick trees.

I go across and sit, in gear ready to go, like fish bait but she stays hidden for good. If the camera had been, as it has most of the trip, on the ram mount I would have snapped her no problem. Probably the one and only time I shall see bears in the wild and I missed it. Bugger...

11 morphs into 8 and the traffic gets much busier ( I forgot it was a Saturday) and with the real strong gusty wind that has now appeared its a grind over the Miramichi Bridge and onward to Shediac.

I arrive about 1830 and take a few quick snaps of the bay before I make my way to Rick and Karen's place.

It's been a long day but well worthwhile to be back with good people...and cold Corona!

Mileage today 341...and it felt a damn sight farther!

Perce Roche 10.7.09

2009-07-18T12:21:00.019Z

I decide to skip breakfast and get on the road earlier than normal. Looks like it's going to be a beautiful day.

The one thing I noticed yesterday is how the steeples of all the churches, and in many cases the whole roof, glisten in the sun. I can't figure out if it's a special tile they use here or its all completely leaded. It has a bright steel look. Either way as I travel through the day they look fantastic in the early sun.

Heading out of Carleton- Sur-Mer (sounds posh does it not) I zip along the 132 where I just meet a town called....

Through Gesgapegiag down to New Richmond which has an English heritage apparently. I nip off 132 to go take a look. I must have blinked because I missed it.

Nice church though...

Views of the estuary as I try and find my way back to the 132.

Finally I get back on and go hunting Le Phare once again...The road hugs the red sandstone coastline through Caplan, Saint Simeon, Bonaventure and New Carlisle and into...

I can't remember where this was but it was somewhere in one of those villages. I shall have to return to check it out again...

The road continues through Hope Town, Saint Godelfroi and...

Through Port Daniel, Gascones, Newport, Pabos Mills, and Chandler.

I stay hugging the coast through Petit Pabos, Grand Riviere, Sainte Therese De Gaspe, Cap Despoire and finally to the reason I rode all this way. Perce Roche.

I'll admit it. From a distance it didn't look all that impressive. However as you get closer you start to realise what a magnificent piece of natural art this is. Carved over centuries it really is a most imposing strucuture especially when viewed end on. It would have been great to go kayaking for an hour up close but sadly that will have to wait for another day.

The little town itself was bustling with people too. Be a good overnight stop this.

After being chased from several hotel gardens (they were the only places you could get a reasonable picture) its time to leave and head further north and east.

Leaving Perce takes you way up high above the town...

Theres a cracking piece of road then through Le Trou De Chat toward Barachois. I was severly tempted to turn around and do it again. I resisted.

The road continus to follow the coast and you get wonderful views of the Roche from the other side of the headland.

From Barachois through St George De Mabais and Douglastown it doesnt take long to get to the town of Gaspe where lies a tale of woe... Due to the fact I'm down to my last $15 Canadien I decide to pop into the wonderful world of Desjardins banking to get some cash off the credit card. WRONG MOVE!

It accepts the card, and the transaction, but decides to swindle me out of $100 and keep it for itself. I then spend an hour with the very helpful lady there trying to sort out what's happened. She is at a loss. So am I. I now have a card that won't accept my PIN, won't seemingly work and may even have been blocked following the transaction.

This leaves me no money and no means of payment for fuel etc....A night sleeping in a cardboard box looms ever closer...

I leave Gaspe and head inland along the 158 to save myself the time lost. It actually turns out to be a nice run through the parc and across counry. Apart from the odd section of roadworks where they all seem to want to throw tar at my bike I dont see a soul until I get to Murdochville. Here's a few shots taken along the way through the Reserve Faunique des Chic Chocs.

After an hour or so the road comes to an abrupt end as it hits the Fleuve St Laurent (go look it up) and we turn left toward Trois Rivieres. The wind is blowing apace now off the water but it doesn't detract from the magnificent views.

Along the coastline with the mountains a permanent fixture. St Maxine, Monte Saint Pierre, Marsoui, and to the lighthouse at La Marthe

From here its a quick blast to St Anne Du Monts where I call it a night. I grab a quickie at Tim's and find a cheap motel where thankfully the card works. The decor thats greets is everything one would expect of french chic. I'm suddenly transported back to the late 60's and start singing Beatles songs whilst I throw my bags in the room.

The state of the art stereo system coupled with the rest of the decor has me strutting around like an extra from a Shaft movie.

No push botton technology here matey...press the switch and see what happens...the switches by the way came from the Apollo space programme parts bin.

With a great deal of help from Rick and Karen I get the card issue sorted. It appears that some older machines here cannot read UK chip and pin technology therefore the system will not authorise the transaction.

If you ever find yourself in this kind of pickle go onto your card's global website and use the ATM search engine to find one you can use.

As for me the weather doesn't look brilliant east of here for the next few days and Rick and Karen want me to go back into New Brunswick. The promise of Alaskan crab legs, home made puds and cold Corona is a despicable attempt to get me back and is undoubtedly against the Geneva convention but it works and I decide to sleep here and start back the following morning.

Miles today 317 long ones...

Le Gaspe...Ooo La La 09.7.09

2009-07-17T23:52:00.021Z

I say my farewells in Shediac and it's time to hit the road to the Gaspe Peninsula...and guess what...it isn't raining either!!! I decide not to hit the main highway just yet and have a wander along the coast through some of the small villages that line this lovely coast.

Over the bridge at Grand Digue I run up the Acadien Coastal Route 134 through Cap De Cassier, Breau Village, Cormierville, Cocagne and up toward the Dune de Bouctouche.

The coastline here is stunningly beautiful. I'm sure it gets hectic in the August period but today as in most of the days I've been here its calm and quiet. It's a struggle not to decamp and just sit on the beach.

Welcome to Nowheresville...and no banjos either.

Through St Edouard-Du -Kent, Cap Lumiere and Richbuctou finally coming to Rexton and their wooden bridge.

It's all very nice sightseeing but I have a long way to go today so I decide to jump on route 11 and make up some miles.

I fly past Saint Charles, Kouchibouguac (I've been here two weeks now and I still can't pronounce it) Laketon, St Margarets and Black River hitting the outskirts of Miramichi and over the bridge. Despite being a main highway the views are still pretty good.

It's a fairly mundane run through Lavillette, Jeanne Mance, and up route 8 to Bathhurst where I fuel up and take time out for my daily Tim Horton's. Once again the plate raises eyebrows and I chat for 15 ninutes with some local bikers before setting off again.

I continue up route 8 past Nigadoo, Point Vetre, Belledune, Gravel Hill and Backland before deciding to turn off at Charlo and return to the coastal route 134 for the last leg upto the border.

From the Eel River Crossing through to Dalhousie the scenery is spectacular as the Gaspe mountains appear across the bay.

I gas up in town head off toward the border. The views along the 134 which hugs the bay are superb and photos really don't do it justice.

I hit Campellton and the Pointe De La Croix. The bridge spans the Baie Des Chaleurs forming a natural border between New Brunswick and Quebec.

It's goodbye to NB for a while as I cross and make my way into French speaking Quebec. If nothing else it will give me the opportunity to brush up my very rusty french.

I run along the 132 with the mountains running on my left for miles. Through Oak Bay, Escuminac, Nouvelle and finally calling it a day at Carleton. This looks a busy seaside town and I manage to get a room with a view of the bay at a god price. The receptionist talks about the weather and tells me the best time for the Gaspe is August through to October. It's a bit late telling me now....

Tomorrow we hit Perce Roche...mileage today 250.

Ouch... 07/08.7.09

2009-07-14T13:58:00.014Z

I wake Tuesday with a completely frozen right shoulder and lower back. There will be no riding for me today. More painkillers required. I spend the day trying to sort out my pictures so far from the trip and updating the blog. I don't get to far. Tuesday afternoon is spent outside the hotel as the sun comes out with the hope it will help loosen me up...

Tuesday was a loss however my good buddies Rick and Karen are at hand as usual to make sure I enjoy myself. Unfortunately Rick is working this Wednesday but Karen is off and picks me up for a day out in the motor. This time to La Dune de Bouctouche.

The dune is a protected site and is part of a scientific study of the dunes that lie across the North Atlantic coast. Only 2000 people per day are allowed on the dune during the holday season to help protect it from over use. Fortunately for me the lobster isn't protected and I scoff my first lobster roll of my trip. Yum!

As you can see there's only room for another 1996 of us....

As I rode around Canada I noticed that many of the beaches had these raised boardwalks that meandered around the marsh flats and dunes. I can't recall seeing anything like this in the U.K. We could learn something here....

As hoped the old currant bun works its magic and by the end of the day I have rotary movement back and feel sure that I can whizz off again tomorrow. We make our way back to base. I can't remember what was devoured for dinner other than it would have been humungous!!! It would also have been accompanied by lashings of cold Corona courtesy of my bud Rick. Top Dude !!!!

More tomorrow

Pirates And Stuff 05/06.7.09

2009-07-14T12:41:00.008Z

The late night had been spent watching the tidal bore rush back up the Salmon River next to the motel. It's lit and is spretty cool to see. I'm up at the usual 0600 (still not sleeping) and fortunately all my kit is dry after yesterdays downpour. There's a storm forecast for the morning so I decide to go for breakfast and see if I can wait it out.

It duly arrives and I sit for an hour trying to update the blog alas to no avail due to the signal strength as it hails...yes I mean hails. By about 1030 it abates and I tog up and leave Truro. The intention is to travel down to Halifax and meet up with my bud Rick, who I travelled with from Cornhole to Moncton, and say hi before carrying on to the south tip of the island at Yarmouth.

The run to Halifax is nothing special but it has stopped raining even though the skies are not at their best and it only takes about an hour to get there. After a few wrong turns on the highway I get around Halifaz and decide to take the more scenic route onto 333 and wind my way to Rick's place.

The road is a delight. It meanders along the coastline through small picturesque ports. Probably a nightmare in the high season to get anywhere on here but today it's fine. I get to Peggy's Cove and it's the only semi busy place I've been to today. Apparently this is the world's most photographed lighthouse so who am I to disappoint....

The rock formations here are beautiful. The sheer power of the winter storms that hit make this a treachourous place when you realise that the buildings that sit a hundred yards away are completely covered in spray when the sea gets nasty. The lighthouse goes on the 'must see again list'.

The littel bays and inland lakes are a mecca for water sports even on a dismal day like today. Living on the water must be fab. Riding through Indian Harbour, French Village and Glen Haven I eventually land at Boutelliers Point and it only takes me a few minutes to find Rick's house.

It's great to see him again and I meet his lovely wife Lucy. I intended to stop for a chat and coffee but I'm told in no uncertain terms that I'm staying with them for the night. With the added temptation of a cold tinnie who am I to argue. I sit for the rest of the afternoon with them both on their rear deck hoping for the sun to come out and simply chillin'. They have the most beautiful view of the bay. When I find out how much the house itself cost I go green with envy.

It appears the Boutelliers were pirates and landed here after being kicked out of another area in Canada. Two of them were hanged for being really bad boys but the area still retains their name.

Lucy has cooked a lovely Sunday roast and I sit with them and their son Andrew and enjoy every single mouthful. The kindness of the Canadian people never ceases to amaze me. Rick and Lucy here, Rick and Karen back in Shediac. They are the most wonderful people and will remain my good friends always.

Lucy is gone for 0630 to work Monday morning, sadly I don't get the chance to say goodbye. This is the view from the rear of their house of the bay. Wonderful isn't it...

The weather forecast is not the best to go south and I still have much to see elsewhere in the provinces. So I decide to go back up north and into New Brunswick once again. Rick has taken the day to ride with me and we ride a little while west along the peninsula through Mill Cove, Aspologan, Bayswater and Deep Cove before heading inland along 14 north.

Canada is just mile and mile and mile of trees as far as the eye can see. I'm sure to the locals it just an everyday vista but to me it's simply amazing scenery. Through Sherwood, Waterville and Vaughan we tank up at Smiths Corner. I don't think I've seen more than half a dozen cars since we left his house an hour ago. He comments on it actually being busy on the roads today. I just laugh...

We turn east before reaching Windsor and head up 215, a route that Rick has not travelled before so I'm glad he won't be bored. Through Kempt Shore, Cheverie, Cambridge and Pembroke the road runs alongside the Minas Bay and Copequid Bay. Every now and then the sun pops out and lights up the sandstone coast. It really is most impressive.

Through Walton ( I believe the home to the world's highest recorded tide) and Noel where the road turns into a washboard with some humungous potholes. I really don't see how sportbikes could actualy survive long on Canadian roads. They would, quite literally, shake to pieces. Finally the road improves and we get to Green Oaks and decide to hit the highway for lunchtime Timmy's.

Unfortunately we hit the only intersection in Canada that doesn't have one and I start to get the uncontrollable shakes as de-tox sets in. Rick saves the day by finding another Tim's near Truro...phew! After my soup combo my faith in freedom and the Canadian way is restored :-)

Sadly I say goodbye to Rick here as he returns home. I truly hope to see him and Lucy again some day. As for me I head north back onto 104 and ride for a few hours till I get to Moncton. For some reason, I know not what, my old shoulder injury has flared up again during the day and I find myself taking a hotel in Moncton and hitting the high strength painkillers. Hopefully it will do the trick amd I'll be good for the morning.

Miles today 248

Nova Scotia Weekender 03/04.7.09

2009-07-11T01:37:00.023Z

First thing this morning was to book out of this dump and find somewhere else...after washing me smalls at the laundry. Fortunately I find Merry's b and b down the street at half the price and the place is spotless. I dump my bags and we're off to do the Cabot Trail. It costs 7 bucks to get in and its probably the best money I've ever spent.

Halifax is 5 hours flight time from the UK. You can be here in two days ride, one if you push it. Whatever you do in life come visit here and hire a bike, it really is biking nirvana.

French Mountain. The Highlands here are the only tract of wild land left in Nova Scotia and has been protected as such since the 30's.

This is the road to Meat Cove. This is the good bit. I managed to hang onto my fillings both ways.

Sugarloaf. The clouds roll off into the ocean....

At the bottom of the cove is a small tea room so I decide to stop. I walk in and the place is deserted. Cash till open... I call, no reply, and go into every room trying to find someone. Outside is a wooden veranda and I find the owner in the baby barn painting a sign. How can I describe her hmmmmm a bit cooky maybe?

However she makes me a fresh pot of coffee and a gorgeous piece of cherry pie. I sit on the decking and there's just me, the river, and total silence. The owner says take your time, hell take a nap if you want. When does the tourist season start I ask.....it started when you walked in honey. People here are just super chilled.

Meat Cove is only half way around the trail but I decide to head back to Cheticamp and enjoy the ride back without the picture stops. The Highlands here are the only tract of wild land left in Nova Scotia and has been protected as such since the 30's. Even though its the start of the holiday season there is simply no traffic at all. On a bike it's a dream.

I get back to Cheticamp for tea and have an iced coffee with my meal...the jury's still out on that one. The rest of the night is spend fighting with the internet connection and planning the next day's journey...but as always plans never go smoothly.

The day starts well enough but rain is forecast so I'm off reasonably early. The idea being to ride the rest of the Cabot and get some more pictures. I get past the halfway point and the weather turns rapidly from bad to worse as the cloud starts to move in low and fast.

Riding here anything could happen. Let's hope not...

Through Ingonish, Wreck Cove, French River, Skir Dhu and North Shore.

One should always be happy in the knowledge that there's someone out there having a crappier day than you...

This is the ferry at Englishtown that takes you across the river. As you can see the weather is pants.

From here its a wet windy run to Baddeck. This is the Bras D'or Lake what bit of it I can see.

The decision to go south instead of east is justified by a sky thats darker than hell itself accompanied by sheet lightning. South it is...

It's back across the Causeway along 104 through Antigonsih and New Glasgow until I get to Truro. By then I've had enough and find a cheap motel and crash. Clothes go in the dryer....again. The weather has been abysmal. Let's hope it's better tomorrow.

Today 290 very wet miles.

East To Cheticamp 02.7.09

2009-07-07T21:37:00.015Z

Welcome to Shediac. The lobster capital of the world.

This monster sits on the harbour.

Hopefully you can see enough detail about who built it.

Shediac is the home of Rick and Karen who have fed and watered me since Monday. Fantastic people but I have to move on today and find my way to Nova Scotia. I am under strict orders however to return next week and the lure of home made puds is hard to resist.

The weather sadly is not much improved and I'm expecting another soaking during the day. Therefore pictures are not plentiful today. I quickly make ground up the main highway until I get to Amherst. Its already started raining as I get into town. The main drag is shut as it appears they're having a bit of a do but the mural is cool.

The highway is boring so I decide to turn off and take the "sunshine trail" (don't laugh) along route 6. This runs along the coast against the Nortumberland Strait. Through Truemanville, Linden and Port Howe the weather is doing it's best to blow me around but I manage to snag a few pictures before I hit Pugwash.

Considering its chucking it down his sou'wester seems rather apt don't you think......through Wallace and Tatamagouche Bay it gets steadily worse. From Seafoam alll the way through to New Glasgow and into Antigonsih is just pants. A shame too as it's a nice area for biking. Unfortunately with the low cloud and mist I can't see any of it.

I can't remember where this was but I peed in it. Sorry......

The run upto the Curso Causeway is clouded in mist and fog and once over the other side and into Nova Scotia I head up route 18 toward Port Hood...and no I have no idea who Mr MacInnes is either.

Those of you from the real Scotland will know how unusual this is to see Inverness and the sun in the same picture...

From here it's up through Mabou, Black River and Marjoree Forks. I stop for my daily Tim's fix and talk with a guy who gives me some local advice re the animal population. That's the four legged kind. He tells me the Marjoree is one of two world class Salmon rivers that they have in Nova Scotia. Considering how clean the waters are here I'm not surprised.

From here it's a last dash through Belle Cote, Grand Etang, Point Cross and finally my destination Cheticamp.

I arrive to a full house and find a room at Laurie's which I can only describe as overpriced and underwhelming but beggars can't be choosers can they...

Mileage today 298 miles

Hopewell Rocks! And Other Weird Stuff 01.7.09

2009-07-07T20:59:00.014Z

Today is Canada Day and to celebrate I'm not going anywhere on the bike. Instead I'm being chauffered to go see Hopewell Rocks and the Fundy Bay shoreline.

The whole area around the bay is full of little inlets and bays. Through twisting narrow roads little gems keep appearing. You can sit and hear absolutely nothing bar the rise and fall of the ocean.

Cape Enrage lighthouse and the views from the hill toward the bay.

Fundy Bay is home to the world's highest tides. Twice a day over 100 billion gallons of water pours into the bay at high tide producing a tide of some 52 feet

The gradual tapering and shallowing of this body of water constricts the tidal flow into the bay, causing the water to rise from the average high tide of 3 ft (1 m), found elsewhere in the world, to the 52 ft (16 m) tidal range found at the head of the bay.

When the tide is out you literally walk along the ocean floor. If you ever get the chance come visit. The rock formations are most impressive.

This is how it looks when the tide is in.

From the shoreline the roads head inland through the national park. There are lookout points everywhere where superb views of the forest can be seen. It's hard to describe just how quiet it is here. I'm a couple of hundred feet above the forest floor yet I can hear the small river that runs through it. Nothing else. Peaceful it is.

Now. Time for some general weirdness. This is Magnetic Hill (no I knew nothing about it either till I started to plan the trip).

This is the few of the hill looking towards the sand road. What you do is drive your car to the end. Put it in neutral and the car will roll backwards UP the hill. Trust me it does. I sat there and did it twice. Weirdsville.

Here's the view from where the car starts and as you can see it's an uphill run...or is it?

It takes a while for your head to get around this. There is an answer as to why this happens howver I'm not going to tell you what it is. You'll have to Google it to find out.

After the day's festivities it's off to Karen and Rick's house for a pizza the size of a UFO and the last plate of home made pud. Yummy.

More later...

Normal Play Resumes 30.6.09

2009-07-07T13:05:00.008Z

The weather network is full of sadists...how can anyone stand there and tell millions of viewers that its going to be the same old same old with a smile on their face!!!!

Sadly they're right and its as dull as dishwater outside. However it's time to get out explore and I decide to visit Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) today giving me the chance to cross the Confederation Bridge. The pics are not brilliant quality, even the camera was struggling with the poor light. Or it was my rubbish photography, probably the latter...

I wizz out of town and through Memramcook and Sackville and take the 16 to the bridge. There's nothing more boring than sticking to main roads when you don't have to.

You don't see many of these on a Sunday ride to Barmouth do you Mick?

Through Baie Vert you really could be in the middle of nowhere. On through Port Elgin and Melrose until we eventually get to the bridge.

The curved bridge is 12.9 kilometre (8 miles) long and is the longest in the world crossing ice-covered water. It took 4 years to build at a cost of one billion dollars and will cost 17 bucks to cross with the bike today. It remains the longest bridge in the world over ice covered water crossing the Northumberland Strait.

What you can't see in the picture is the fact that the bridge continues to curve to the left and includes even higher spans.

The island is split into 3 counties, Kings, Queens and Prince. I head east and get off the main drag as soon as possible. As a newbie you quickly find that roads on the island are not always what they seem. A trip down to the nearest cove teaches you that just because there is tarmac on the approach to the bend does not necessarily mean there will be tarmc at the end. Hitting the foot of sand that awaited me soon taught me to be wary and to ease off the gas.

P.E.I. is potato country. Every single field is full of them for mile after mile. Undoubtedly the rich red soil is perfect for growing.

Lighthouse at Victoria by the Sea

Sadly the weather fails to improve and the sky gets slowly darker. By the time I getto Charlottetown I head north along 15 toward Backley Beach. I keep west on the coast road across Oyster Bed bridge through the Rustico villages (I think there were 5 of them all sharing the same town name).

As usual the freeloader is doing absolutely nothing other than chillin'

By the time I cross into Prince's county it's starting to rain so the camera goes away. Cavendish looks like the vacation capital of the island and looks ready set up for the holiday season, when it arrives.

This is rush hour on P.E.I. and as you can see it's going to chuck it down.

From here I head back south throug Stanley Bridge and Springfield back toward the bridge where I'm duly relieved of my 17 bucks, and it's back into New Brunswick.

Instead of taking the main route home I keep to the coast road. Through Murray Corner and the provincial park is fab. Absloutley empty of traffic and wonderful scenery. Little Shemoque, LeBlanc Shemoque and towards Cap Pele.

I'm so hungry by now I could eat this...

By the time I get into Moncton it's raining hard once again. Despite the crappy weather P.E.I. is a great place to visit. It takes about 10 minutes to et into the island mentality. Nobody seems to be in a rush, nobody speeds, everyone waves.
If this was a beer it would come super chilled...

Every one is complaining about the weather. Its the wettest coldest start to summer here in years. It's not just local either. There is a depressioj sitting over eastern Canada that's 1500 miles long and wide and is refusing to go anywhere.

I'm seriously hoping it does.

Mileage today about 200 mls.

Rain Stops Play 28/29.6.09

2009-07-03T12:03:00.006Z

The morning is fine but having breakfast with a room full of Jehovas Witnesses was kinda scary. I was obviously viewed as the spawn of the devil in riding gear. All very strange. With a waterlogged camera there's no pics today either.

We set off toward Montreal in clear weather. It didnt take long to get caught in traffic and we travelled 200 yds in around 20 minutes only to find 50 feet of roadworks and 3 blokes sitting on their backside doing nothing. Just like back at home!

The next obstacle is the American bridge over the river is shut so we spend 10 minutes riding around the ring road until we find the tunnel and finally get out of the city.

After a brief stop (it's 81f) we get going again and hit the rain. 30 minutes later its dropped to 60f and time for a bit of extra clothing. The rest of the journey was really nothing but rain to Riviere Du Loop where we headed east along 186 toward Edmundston. It finally starts to warm up and as we tank up about 10 miles out of town its back to 76f. The weather here is crazy....

Finally get in for 2130 and its a quick dash to the local Pizza shack for a bite to eat and then back for a few tinnies before bed.

Following morning is much the same. Heavy rain along with an annoying crosswind. Head out to the highway and head east again this time toward Moncton. Unfortunately for Rick he has to make Halifax, another added 3 hours for him. The temperature stays a little higher despite the incessant downpour and with a few stops for coffee we get through the worst of it.

By 1500 I'm off the highway into a hotel for a well earned shower. I'm picked up later by Karen and Rick who take me back to their place where I sit with them and their good buddies Janice and Guy and tuck into home made seafood chowder, or as I described it "soup with bits in" and a devine home made pud.

We reckon in two days we rode 1000km in the rain. Was it all worth it? With new friends like these you bet!

More soon...

DON'T Look Down 27.6.09

2009-07-01T13:06:00.012Z

It's an absolutely perfect morning. I leave the hotel by 0930 and jump on the expressway for the short trip into Toronto.

It takes a couple of minutes to find somewhere to park Myrtle and a short walk away from this.....by now I really, really don't want to go up.

I pay my 23 bucks and wait in line with the rest of the suckers for the elevator. It takes about 30 seconds to reach the viewing platform and that goddam awful glass floor. I have to admit the views of the city from the platform are pretty cool if ever so slightly terrifying...

Shaky hands I'm afraid. They'll calm down later.

From the outer viewing platform you enter the torture chamber inside the dome where lies the glass floor. A portion of the concrete floor replaced by some super duper reinforced glass stuff. I really do not like heights.....at all. Standing on the roof at home is about my limit. I don't really care that the glass can carry the weight of thirteen elephants per square inch. How the hell do they test that theory anyway?

I think it's about 550 metres down.

There's always one smart arse...

To my brain it may as well be mad of cling film. I dance around it for about ten minutes before I'm dragged on kicking and screaming by a bunch of kids. Why do they have no concept of fear? Do they want mine? Strangely enough its not that bad. Once I was on it I was ok. You can catch an elevator to the next deck up but I'm too tight to pay and I've had enough superhero stuff for one day.

Trust me you have no idea what it took for me to stand on this. If my legs look long its because they are trying desperately to reach the ground.

I get stuck in traffic this time getting out of Toronto but after a while it eases and I make some headway. Its pretty mundane on the expressway but it serves a purpose and I get a few miles under my belt. Past Port Hope, Belville, Trenton and finally up to Kingston where the skies start to darken. I have to get to Cornwall so I hope to make it dry.

5 miles from Cornwall the heavens open...and I mean open. I get off the bike at the nearest exit and grab the camera which is on the mount and put it away. I crawl into Cornwall where the water is at one stage to the soles of my feet. Unfortunately for me the town is holding a Jehovas convention so the first hotel I try is solid.

Outside another bedraggled biker, Rick, is looking for digs too so we venture next door. Only a double roomed corporate suite at megabucks is available but after a tag team charm offensive we get it for $80 piece which is pretty good here.

Beer and Pizza are the order of the day. Bumping into Rick is a stroke of luck. He lives in Nova Scotia and is on his way back with a new bike so there will be some company for the rest of the journey to Moncton.

Mileage today 300

More later....

Water And More Water 26.6.09

2009-06-26T12:10:00.013Z

I know. I owe you a blog from yesterday. Unfortunately Blogger was on the go slow last night so I will catch up today. It's 0800 and I'm sitting watching the weather show outside my window. The storm has rolled in from Syracuse and there is a thunder and lightning show par exellence.

I am going to wait another hour before I hit the road as the storm is going east and I'm off west to Niagara. The weather is meant to improve with highs of 75f+ and humidity around 83%. Right I'll crack on with yesterdays report. Later peeps.......

I wait till 1000 before I leave the hotel....I know so decadent and you're all working hard , its just not right is it lol. Light rain soon gives way to dry roads and the decision to leave late fully justified. Syracuse was under water at 0800 now it's all gone.

I'm able to move apace with the traffic whilst keeping a beady eye out for the local PD. They are seeing revenue dwindle themselves and are, to qoute one person "brutal". There's plenty of highway patrol about hiding in the median so careful as she goes.

The weather is still sticky but the sun comes out for a while before the sky darkens and it starts to rain again. Miles disappear fast and soon the fuel light is on. I pull into Ontario services where I grab a coffee and find wi fi access. Unfortunately no one is at home. Bugger.

Time to go....next stop Niagara. It doesnt take too long to blat along the new York thruway and as I do the weather gets better and better. After a couple of hours its around 82f and hardly a cloud in the sky. I hit the end of the thruway at the toll booths just east of Buffalo.

From here its only a few miles around the expressway that weaves its way around Buffalo. This is one of two huge bridges that span the Niagara river the second running behind the falls themselves. You can't see them yet but the mist rises way above the river.

Several people told me to skip the American Falls and go straight to the Canadian side so that's what I do. This is the Rainbow bridge that leads to the Canadian border.

Welcome to Canada. Waiting in line is hot however there are only a couple of cars ahead of me so it's not too bad. A few moments later I'm joined by another bike. Both rider and passenger were Brits and spotted my bike plate straightaway. The border check was a painless experience. The young guy in the booth just chatted away about the bike and my trip so far. Documents checked. All done.

The river and the Falls are only a minute away. Nothing really prepared me for the spectacle they deliver. They are truly magnificent. A real testament to the power of nature. There is so much spray that the road above is wet and there is a permanant plume that lines the viewing areas. Here are a few photos including Russ the freeloading giraffe...you'll be seeing more of him later.

The Canadian side known as Horseshoe Falls.

Looking down to the American Falls.

It was difficult to see the pictures or framing due to the sunlight but they didnt turn out too bad.

It's now 83 f and I am the only person amongst thousands who iswearing anything other than shorts. This strange vision of a man in bike gear standing under the plume of mist to try and keep cool is undoubtedly not what the tourists thought they'd see. After 20 minutes it's time to go. I hope to be back again later in the month.

Its another 60 miles or so to my final destination, Toronto, along the freeway. It doesn't take too long to lose the miles until about 20 miles before the city. Toronto has a population of 2.5 million and it appears they've all come out together and all want to go in the same direction as me. Coupled with roadworks its at a standstill which is further compounded by the bike going onto reserve.

You'd think that a major city would have gas stations at freeway locations but I couldnt find any. Crawling slowly toward the city sees the fuel level drop from 20 to 10 then to 5 miles only. I get off at Young St and with the help of a local biker get to a little gas station tucked away in the city....phew.

After 10 minutes to get my bearings and wondering whether I really want to do the CN Tower tomorrow I double back to Mississauga and find a hotel to crash in as it's now after 8. I find a bar round the corner with decent grub and a Marley tribute band playing so after a couple of pints and food I'm toast. Off to bed.

Here's a little vid of the Maid in the Mist. The power of the water is incredible. These boats are tough little buggers.....

Mileage today 340...

Busy Going Backwards 24.6.09

2009-06-25T23:25:00.028Z

After breakfast and copious amounts of american coffee I’m ready to go and try claim the bike. Weather forecast is 76f and cloudy with a chance of rain. The hotel calls me a cab and the first stop is to US Customs in Raymond Boulevard about 3 miles away.

True to form things don’t go smoothly and I pick the only taxi driver in Newark who doesn’t know where he’s going and who‘s forgotten his Sat Nav. After suggesting on a number of occasions that he’s going the wrong way he admits defeat and I navigate for him and eventually find the office. I don’t get charged for the sightseeing trip so I don’t mind too much.

US Customs is a painless experience. Harry goes through my papers and identifies that I’m missing the bike’s arrival notice from 2wGlobal and as such can’t sign off the necessary importation forms. The look of horror and sheer disbelief works its magic and after a quick call the port office faxes through the paperwork which Harry is happy to sign off on. After a handshake I’m in and out in 10 minutes flat.

I was very naughty and got away with it this time due in the main to Harry. I knew I should have gone to the port office first but skipped it and hoped I‘d get away with it which I did. America does not have bureaucratic red tape, it‘s all coloured crimson. There is no flexibility in any process. You do it right and to the letter or not at all....I was very fortunate.

Another taxi ride and I’m at 2wGlobal in Doremus Avenue where they remove the princely sum of $95 from my back pocket. After sign off again it only takes 10 minutes and the bike is back in my possession. There is not a mark on it and it fires up first time. It takes about 15 minutes to get back to the hotel after working out the somewhat confusing road system around the airport however I’m packed and ready to go by 1 p.m.

By now its very humid and getting worse by the minute with the morning sun being replaced by a threatening sky. I know I have to be out of New York soon as I-95 will be gridlocked in another hour. Time to go……..

Well are you ready?

At the toll I pick the only booth that’s run out of tickets so its off the bike and a quick visit to the office where I get one. From here it’s I-95 North along the turnpike towards the George Washington bridge.

I move along at a reasonable pace with good traffic. The weather is closing in and New York City to my right glimmers in what is left of a pocket of sunshine with the Empire State rising majestically to the skies.
As I approach the ’GW’ the sun has gone and it’s starting to rain. It is however boiling hot and the increased volume of traffic perpetuates the ever rising humidity.

New York is now clouded in mist and fog. I was going to take a detour into the city for you and take a few snaps but with things as they are I will leave that until my return journey. Promise…

The ‘GW’ is a two tiered bridge and is meant to be an expressway. I think they fibbed. According to the truck driver across from me its been like this since 7 this morning and there is now an accident on the span. Never mind. Here are a few pics that I managed to snap. The rain doesn’t help but c’est la vie…

When at a standstill the movement of the bridge can be most unnerving. It doesn’t so much sway or undulate but the span moves violently underneath you. It’s like a choppy sea crossing. With a fully laden bike plus fat boy slim riding it requires both feet on the tarmac. Sitting here also gives me the opportunity to see the bridge up close. I’m no engineer but it’s a hell of a structure.

It takes about 15 minutes to cross the bridge and by this time I’m so hot my underwear is in danger of spontaneous combustion. Fortunately the traffic eases and I get a little more air.

I’ve ridden this route before however I can’t recall the surface ever being this bad. It is quite honestly atrocious. This is the good bit and even this has no top surface. It’s like riding on the layer that they uncover before they re-tarmac the roads back home. They’ve just never come back to finish it. It just gets worse.

By the time I hit the New York State toll it ceases to be a highway as such and resembles the surface of the moon. It‘s also hammering down with rain and the spray coupled with the surface does not make a happy combo. The flash flooding makes it difficult to read the surface due to the spatial voids that litter this road now being full of water.

The highway deteriorates further. They even have huge metal plates attached to the surface to cover up the holes Those of you who don’t ride bikes just imagine an ice rink and you’ll get an idea of the grip levels available.

By the time I cross into Connecticut I take a detour into Greenwich.. The camera is on a handlebar mount and is getting soaked (not waterproof) and I need to get the rain cover on the tank bag before it soaks the contents including my laptop.

Yes they did forecast a chance of a shower however I don’t believe they meant this. Hard to tell with the picture but trust me the rain is coming down in buckets...and no I don't know why its all being underlined either...ggrrrrrr

Greenwich is a bit posh. You can tell because in the centre of town there is not a chain restaurant in sight, only a Starbucks. Far too well heeled for that. The Rolls Royce, Maybach and Bentley dealers aren‘t the usual high street affair either. It is a pretty place though even when it’s half submerged.

Purdy ain' t it....

Greenwich town hall. This is just the entrance. I ride a few of the residential streets for a bit of a nose. The houses are fantastic. It is a beautiful place. I’m told later that Greenwich is one of the richest towns, not only in the state, but in America.

I eventually find a Maccy D’s out on the outskirts where I decide to sit out the rain for an hour and dry out my kit. Good job as the camera is soaked and water has already started to leak into the battery compartment so it gets a good clean and wipe down. Ordering coffee is an experience. The young girl can‘t understand a word. I have to speak reallllllly sllllooowwwlllyyyyyyyy so she can work out what I want. After a fit of giggles from the rest of the crew I get my coffee.

I catch up with home whilst I sit there where they take pleasure in telling me it’s been 24C and 10 hours of unbroken sunshine. I can hear the laughter in the backgound. They offer to send me a brolly. I won‘t tell you what my reply was.

By 4 pm there is a break in the weather and I decide to go for it. I pack everything away including the camera so no more pics I’m afraid. I-95 is now gridlocked and it’s a slow crawl on and off for the next 30 miles. Despite the black, menacing skies I only get hit with light rain showers for the rest of the journey so the decision to stop earlier was undoubtedly the right one.

I get through Bridgeport, Milford, Yale and the outskirts of New Haven where a lot of traffic runs into I-81 and for the next 20 minutes I’m able to catch up a little lost time. Speeding…moi…nooooooooooooooooo

I arrive at Bri and Dee’s home around 7pm. I’m greeted like a long lost friend. After 10 minutes it’s like I’ve never been away. They even have tea for me! Unfortunately it’s all that flavoured stuff but the lemon ginger wasn’t half bad.

After a shower they go for Pizza as it’s kinda late by now to go out. Dee comes back with two Pizzas the size of dustbin lids. They bought me some Old Speckled Hen tinnies too and she’s been to the store and bought me some old English tea to carry with me on my trip. Friends like these are hard to find.

By 10.30 I’m bushed and I'm off to bed. It is so quiet here and with all the woodland that abounds here I half expect bigfoot to come waltzing up the drive. Today wasn’t too bad. I knew the weather had been poor here before I arrived and the forecast is much the same for the next few days. To be honest I don’t really care. It’s all part of the adventure right…….Journey today 262 Miles

See you tomorrow

PS Don't forget you can click on any of the photos to enlarge them.

The Joys of Air Travel 23.6.09

2009-06-24T08:34:00.004Z

Well there aren't any really not unless you're first class. It's 4 a.m and jet lag rules. The flight was thankfully unventful. Getting into the USA was fun as it always is. Its always nice to spend some quality time with my friends in 'secondary inspection' whilst they verify a few details. If nothing else they were courteous to the etxreme and only delayed me by 10 minutes. The latex gloves stayed in the box.as well which is always a blessing......

My hotel was only a short run from the airport which helps; after lugging motorcycle panniers, helmets and sundry items around the terminal I was just about knackered.

Good news is according to 2wGlobal the bike was 'discharged' today, no I didn't know it had been hospitalised either, so in a few hours I will start the process of release with a visit to US Customs. That should be fun. If all goes well I should be on the road for around noon.

I'm starving when's breakfast???

Gone But Not Forgotten

2009-06-15T13:19:00.003Z

Afer much cleaning and polishing the bike was dropped off at Liverpool docks on Thursday. 2WGlobal duly removed £590 out of my pocket for the pleasure of shipping with them ...OUCH! As I scribe the bike has left the shores of our delightful little island and should now be bumping across the Atlantic on the Atlantic Companion Voyager. It SHOULD be in New York on Tueasday 23rd June. There again so should I.....

Despite my best attempts I still can't find the time to go through my trip list and check all of those last minute details that I really should. I just know I'll forget something important. I have to contact US Customs today and try to arrange a meeting with them so they can fill in the necessary temporary import forms too.....otherwise I won't be going anywhere outside of the docks. In fact I'd better go do that now....

2009-04-18T17:13:00.001Z

test.............

The Fat Lady Sings 07.07.2006

2006-07-17T21:09:00.000Z

Well it's time to go home today. I fly in a few hours and I've been kinda busy so I'll update you as to what's been happening. I spent Monday 3rd and Thursday 6th trying to get the paperwork sorted for the bike's return trip home. What should be a simple process turned into a flippin' marathon.

I need two trips to Long Beach to sort everything out but eventually I drop the bike into the warehouse late on Thursday and leave her. I won't see her again until mid August at the latest when she arrives back in the UK.. I feel kinda sad leaving her all on her own. She's been a faithful companion over the past four weeks and got me out of some sticky situations. I'll be glad to see her home.

Total mileage for the entire trip here in the US has come to 10,321 miles. I've kept most of my fuel receipts, I've lost a couple too, and I don't think I'm far wrong from my original estimate of 366 gallons.

I succumbed to another baseball game on Friday night and went to watch the Dodgers play the Giants. It was fun. Barry Bonds plays for the Giants and is currently number two in the all time rankings for hitting home runs. They gave him plenty of stick. Something about being a steroid user??

Anyway here's some more photos of the game...oh and by the way the Dodgers lost. Schmucks.

You may not like the game but you can't deny that's one pretty backdrop.

Independence Day was amazing. I spent the evening watching the fireworks over the L.A. Rose Bowl. I've never seen fireworks that could make smiley faces before, or squares for that matter. Some of the displays were the size of a small planet. All the local roads are sealed off for residents and there's a real street party atmosphere about the place. It was way cool. I drunk no alcohol...well only a little bit.

I'll miss lots of things about America. I love riding on the city freeways. I know, they're always busy, but there's a real buzz about them when you're whizzing around on a bike. They can be scary and fun all at the same time. Lorry drivers here are undoubtedly on prescription acid. There are no limiters on their vehicles and they will fly past you at 90 and then make you overtake on the inside just for fun. Nutters.

I'll miss the wide, open spaces and the great stories behind areas across the 'wild west'.

I'll miss Mijares and real Mexican food, margheritas and shots. Baseball (sorry I've been converted) hot days, hot nights, chilling with a cold Corona under the pergola, the lovely towns I travelled through and the wonderful company that came with them.

I'll miss all my buddies from the 12.org site who I met and who were so wonderfully generous to me and all the folks I met who treated me with such warmth and generosity and invited me into their homes like I'd known them all my life. Thanks to my buddy in Waco for looking after me so well. Iced tea still sux!

Would I do it all again...absolutely. Would I do it in 25 days...not till hell freezes over. My body couldn't take it again!

Would I have changed anything. Yes. I'd have learnt how to use the self timer on the camera BEFORE I left home instead of a few days before I came back. DOH! I'd have bought a new wireless laptop as well and probably have saved myself a lot of the aggravation with I.T. There again it is now a bag of bits having been shaken to within an inch of its life for the past 25 days.

Always remember that if you take a sat nav (I took one of those dual purpose PDA's with a nav chip) that they will turn themselves on and run completely flat right at the moment you need them most, along with your telephone. Always remember too that they can tell you the fastest route, shortest route, but what they can't tell you anything about is the 'hood they're gonna send you through!

I'd probably have spent a little more time seeing some of the 'sights' too with three days to spare. Hindsight is a wonderful thing isn't it.

Today is packing day and a day for walking around like Mr Miserable. I've been to the mall to buy some pressies for home. Either that or the locks on the doors will have been changed when I get back. Before I leave I bury my boots and my leather trousers (pants) with full military honours. They have been battered by all kinds of weather, all the zips have broken, the stiching is starting to go and my boot uppers have separated from their soles and deserve a decent send off.

L.A. airport was horrible. The flight was the night flight from hell. What can I say... I'm back home.

Someone asked me the other day which was my favourite place. It's a bit of an unfair question really as I spent days travelling in some states and only hours in another. Having said that a piece of me will always remain in California. I think that's purely down to the people I met there.

Anyway I hope you enjoyed the blog. I read through it all for the first time last night. I'd forgotten I'd written half the stuff on it. It wasn't a bad read for a bloke who struggles normally to string two coherent sentences together. Thanks to everyone who's supported me and sponsored me through the challenge on both sides of the pond and for all the messages on the blog. It means a lot.

Well that's it...as they say the fat lady sings and I'm signing off. I'm off to plan my trip back!

If you hadn't guessed I'll miss America and its people...a lot.

Thanks
Andy

Welcome (back) To The Hotel California 30.06.2006

2006-07-17T15:16:00.000Z

Again it's an early start but I'm in no major rush today. Only around 350 miles to my destination in Pasadena. This is my last view of the Strip with New York New York in the background.

One block south and we take a right on Magnolia and we're onto I- 15 for the long, hot trip through the Mojave Desert.

I decide to tank up just before I get on the Interstate and whilst I'm there three cruisers pull up across from me. Turns out they're all English guys on a motorcycling break over here riding around Cali. They're amazed with what I've managed to achieve in the short time I've been here.

Just as I leave, I think it was Craig (or was it Chris...sorry mate I was hot) from Twickenham, comes over and puts a hundred dollar bill in my hand for my charities. A simple thank you sometimes doesn't seem enough does it?. He's a top bloke.

I jump onto I-15 and head south along the freeway toward Jean (that's a town not a woman). It's flat and not too inspiring but sometimes you have to get your head down and do the miles.

Through the town of Stateline and through Mountain Pass on to Valley Wells.

After a couple of hours I get to Baker. This place has the distinction of having the worlds tallest thermometer. I don't really need to look at it to know I'm roasting my bits off. If you can't quite make out the gauge have a look at the next one.

...and it's only ten in the morning.

I stop and gas up then take on fluid in a local cafe. A couple of guys come over and chat about the trip. They're really kind. After 30 minutes I've cooled down my core and I'm off again southwards.

We travel toward the mountains in the distance past Harvard and the ghost town of Calico, past Barstow and on to Victorville.

From here it gets a little more interesting as we fly along I-15 down into the Cajon Pass and toward San Bernardino. Although it's boiling hot and extremely dry the mountains still look pretty.

The road winds down through the mountains and before long I'm having to check my directions as soon the freeway splits and I need to make sure I head in the right direction towards Pasadena.

This is where I have my first real mishap on the trip. I'm travelling a good way behind a wagon but I don't see the piece of 2" steel bar that he's just flicked up off the deck and it hits me right across the toes of my left foot. They could hear me scream in San Francisco. It feels like I've broken all my pinkies. My foot throbs mercillessly all the rest of the journey but I'm real fortunate. I've got a swollen big toe and a few others are nicely shaded black and blue but that's about it. That could have been sooo embarrasing only 50 miles from home!

It's getting a little busy now so the camera goes away. Unfortnately I-20 is detoured and I follow the signs only to get a little waylaid. A stroke of luck though as a passing police motorcyclist stop to see if I'm ok. Looks like I was going in the right direction after all. I thank him for his help and with a big smile he shouts over his tannoy " no problem mate!" I haven't the heart to tell him he needs to work on the English accent a bit more. Top Bloke though.

I'm eventually back onto I-210 loop which takes me on past San Dimas, Citrus, Azusa, Monrovia, Arcadia and to my final destination Pasadena. I drag the luggage off the bike with what strength I have left and dive in the shower. I'm changed and refreshed and it's not until I go back to park and lock the bike up it finally hits me it's all over.

I'm not sure of the mileage just yet but its got to be close to ten and a half thousand. The bike has been superb throughout. Considering it was four years old before I even started here and had seen four british winters and had 32,000 miles on the clock. I can't actually believe it made it all that way without a single murmur. Bloody fantastic. I think my next bike will be another Kawasaki.

I'm pleased I've passed all my goals and delivered to everyone who sponsored me on this odyssey. I'm also real sad as I soon have to go home and leave this wonderful country and its people behind. They have been kind, warm and utterly amazing to me throughout. Don't, under any circumstances, make assumptions about Americans. Come over to their back yard and get to know them first. They are the most generous people I've ever met and I feel honoured to have been in their company even for this short amount of time.

As for me I'm going to float like a whale in the pool for an hour. I think I deserve it. I'll be back later for the final blog real soon.

Pasadena's kinda pretty isn't it.

Later Doodes

Welcome To Hell 29.06.2006

2006-07-14T20:23:00.000Z

I start out early and it's already real hot. It takes 15 minutes to get out of Vegas due to roadworks. I don't think I've ever seen so much new build housing in one place in my life. With such an influx of people its no wonder you always get 2 murders an episode on CSI.

I gas up and we're heading toward the Spring Mountains.

Along 160 where the roads have just been resurfaced and are simply divine. It climbs higher into the range through Mountain Springs and is an absolute joy to ride.

It's taken 76 miles to get here and I turn onto local 178 toward Shoshone.

This is taken close to the state line and is a view of Mt Charleston. From here you just spin around 180 and we're in...

California. Welcome back. Now this is where it gets interesting. The original goal was 48 states in 28 days remember...now we've crossed back into California, our original starting point.

So in effect that's the goal complete. All 48 states done. I started Monday June 5th at 1257 hrs in Port Hueneme and crossed back over this California state line at 1000 hrs on Thurday 28th June. I make that 25 days in all which includes 2 rest days for me and the bike. Not bad going really. However the trip isn't complete as we still haven't done the Valley or got 'home' to Pasadena so I won't call it quits just yet.

From the state line we head toward the Armagosa Range closer and closer to the Valley.

This is Shoshone. This is all there is to it. I'm at the gas station where it's a splash and dash. This is one place you do not want to run out of fuel...at $3.87 a gallon (the most expensive I paid on the entire trip in the states) I could run out of money first!

From here it's onto local 127 for another 30 miles to Death Valley Junction.

Just in case you forget where you are...by this time it's still only about 1000 but the leather jacket is now safely folded under the cargo net and I'm riding in my T shirt.

This is something I never do but there is simply no choice here. It's already 94f and getting hotter all the time.

Now you see revealed the secret of the upside down, on the move, left-handed camera shot. A magician never reveals his secrets and I'm immediately expunged from the Magic Circle.

I'm also playing silly buggers 'cos I'm so hot.

This is the Armagosa Opera House at Death Valley Junction. No, I have no idea why there's one there either.

From the Junction I turn onto 190 for the long run to Death Valley proper. Quiet isn't it.

I'm still at around 3000 ft here.

Now we're getting into serious territory...

I've ridden alongside a desert before. Mile after mile of palms then as you got closer the shimmering sands moved by the wind. They have a beauty that simply draws you in.
Not here mate. This place just gives you the finger as soon as you get to it. You can feel it scratching your name on the possible victims list as you get near. It's utterly hostile and utterly desolate. I feel like the only living thing here for miles...and probably am. I travel another 10 miles along Furnace Creek Wash past Twenty Mule Team Canyon until I come to Zabriskie Point.

I decide to stop and walk to the vantage point. It's about 200 yards and in this heat feels like 2 million miles. See that little blob...that's my bike that is.

No matter how much you drink here you feel perminantly thirsty. I could kill for a cold Corona. Here are a few pictures taken before I collapsed in a heap and had to be rolled back down to the car park.

It's incredible to think that people crossed this hell hole on foot and in wagon trains. How they managed it god only knows.

We're almost at Furnace Creek now and we've dropped 3000 ft in about 25 minutes. In the Valley the temperature rises 5.5 f for every 1000 ft drop. Now I'm baking alive.

You always new there was a hell on earth...now you know just where it is.

I dive into the visitors centre and cool down for half an hour. It's 108f outside and will be 116f in another 45 mins. I douse myself in water and go outside again...mad dogs and Englishmen come to mind.

I intended to ride to Badwater about 18 miles away but get as far as Golden Canyon and call it a day. This pale skinned Englishman has had enough. It's a long way back to Vegas and the heat is seriously starting to get to me. I take a few more photos and then I'm outta here. Next time I come I'll be in an air conditioned car.

From here I thread my way back onto the highway and ride up to Zabriskie Point once again for water. Whilst I'm there a nice lady offers to take a couple of photos of me. Her husband talks to me about the trip and thinks I'm absolutely nuts.

Someone told me that this was my best side. Nice to have friends isn't it? Apparently there's cold beer about 180 miles away in that direction.

I was too tired to push it into the Disabled spot...

From here I continue back up to DeathValley Junction and surprisingly it doesn't get any cooler. I take a different route back too, after all what's the point of being here if you don't have a bit of an adventure.

State Line Road. I don't see a single vehicle for 40 miles. You do not want to break down here.

Well the ambient temperature is about right.

Eventually I reach Pahrump again and civilisation. I tank up with gas and the last 70 mile back to Vegas. I hit the roadworks and spend 30 minutes trying to get fight my way through the Strip. By the time I get into the hotel I'm absolutely trashed.

I decide to treat myself to a bit of r and r and hit the pool. WOW. I'm sunbathing in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower. How cool is that?

After a quick bite to eat I'm off to walk the other half of the Strip. I did promise you some more photos didn't I? Enjoy.

Well that's your lot. The others didn't come out. I'm off to Coyote Ugly. Ha!

Later Doodes

Viva Las Vegas 28.06.2006

2006-07-10T19:00:00.000Z

Well at least you get half a smile...it is half past six in a morning.

There's still a lot of smoke in the canyon but the photos are still pretty cool...Hopefully I've caught some of the beautifl canyon colours.

This is taken from the edge of the precipice. Next stop 1000 ft down. Don't worry dear I survived you can put the insurance paperwork away.

It was full of tourists yesterday and this morning there's just me. It's so peaceful and quiet.

If you've never been to the Canyon then get your arse into gear and do it. This is one of nature's wonders that you have to see. All the roads have been resurfaced too so come ride them before they melt!

Sadly it's time to leave and I whizz back to the hotel to pack up the luggage and we're off.

The scenery starts to change pretty dramatically as we move away from the canyon along US 180 toward Red Butte and Valle.

From Valle it's south along local 84 through Red Lake toward the Bill Williams Mountains where before long we arrive at...

Admit it you knew that was coming didn't you.. Historic Williams is nestled in the mountains within the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pine trees.

Route 66 was known as America's main street and in its heyday served as a national thoroughfare that ran from Chicago to Santa Ana and was the only route for millions of Americans looking for a better life West.. It was the last town to be bypassed by the Interstate system. It had the last set of working traffic signals on that route too.

It looks a nice place to spend the morning but for me it's another gas stop. I do decide to do a bit of exploring though. I want to find some more of the original Route 66 if I can so off I go to look.

I follow the road for about 3 miles but it gives way to sand and gravel. No good. Back to the freeway. Turns out the freeway covers the old road anyway.

I ride for about 10 minutes. As we head toward Kingman I see a sign for Historic Route 66 and I take it. It brings me to Ash Fork.

There's simply nothing left to speak of in this town. I ride the small loop around it. The only building with paint on it is the hairdressers.

It's only when you visit places like this you can gauge the impact that the Interstate system had on hundreds of towns on Route 66. Another 50 years and nature will swallow this place up once again.

This is as far as the 66 goes so I spin around and back onto I-40.

After another few miles I have a stroke of luck...found it.

Straight innit...

Off I push toward the general direction of Kingman and over the Crookton Overpass.

Say hello to Seligman.

Tacky tacky tacky...but you just gotta love it!

Along 66 toward Peach Springs and the Grand Canyon Caverns with the Aubrey Cliffs alongside.

Peach Springs

Through Truxton and Hackberry and the road falls through a small ravine.

I drop into Kingman where I gas up and take on some fluid. It's 94f.

From here we're going to take I-40 West and then US 93 North toward Vegas.

93 is flat and straight. I measured 29 miles without a curve. It was sooooo hot I can't remember exactly but I think I'm right.

The Black Mountains run to our left and we ride into Lake Mead National recreation area.

We start to get closer to the Dam and the road starts to narrow dramatically. You can see the new highway to right and the new flyover. A new road was commisioned as it was felt that the old route over the Dam was too high a security risk. It won't be long before the Dam will be impassable to vehicular traffic so if you want to ride across it do it soon.

The road starts to stack up with traffic and comes to a sandstill as we get through the new security checks. By the time we're back on the black stuff it's nose to tail traffic.It takes another ten minutes through winding narrows until we come to...

The Hoover Dam. It's hotter than hell now and I stop and drink half of the lakes' contents. You can't see from here but in a few minutes it'll be total gridlock across the Dam road.

It takes 10 minutes to travel around 300 yds. It's too difficult to take photos as I travel across the dam itself. Plus the bike is waaaay too hot and the fan's singing like a wailing banshee. I need to get some cooler air into her sharpish.

That's a hell of a tide mark. I didn't know I'd drunk that much!

When you consider how old this thing is its even more impressive. It's all beautifully decorated in art deco style and all the doors are in gold leaf.

This is the view from the other side as you ride the narrows back up into the hills. The road is too narrow and too traffic laden to stop for any more.

There's no way on this earth or any other for that matter you'd get me to work in that tower!

At the top of the rise we hit the state line into Nevada. After this I'm off to the visitors centre where I wilt and a nice lady helps me to find a hotel on the strip.

I get a room at the Paris Vegas for less than $110. Bostin!

It takes another 40 or so minutes and then we hit the freeway and Vegas appears out of the heat haze.

I take it easy as the traffic begans to get real heavy. I'm looking for the turn off for Las Vegas Blvd North. From here it's another 25 minutes before I find it and get onto the Blvd proper.

This is the first real view up close of Vegas. The Stratosphere Hotel. The temprature is 105f and it's only 1530. It then takes 30 minutes to travel about 2 miles along the strip to the hotel.
Don't believe anything you see on CSI:Vegas. Nothing, and I mean, nothing moves on the strip. It's bloody chaos. Take my advice and never try and drive through here!

I park outside the hotel and I'm dripping wet, on the inside. Not a pretty sight. Fortunately they take pity on me at check in and I get my room sorted real quick. I park the panting bike in the multi storey and I'm straight in the shower.
After a cool down I take a walk outside to see the sights before it goes dark. This is where I'm stopping. No, not in the balloon, in the hotel behind.

Here's some of the piccies I took. You'll no doubt recognise most of them.

I go back to the hotel and get myself some grub. I come back outside to find darkness has fallen. This is when Vegas comes alive. A million megawatts of light and glitz. Not all the photos came out sadly but you get the picture I'm sure. What an amazing place.

This is the biggest bronze lion in the USA...I'm not making this up you know.There'll be more pictures tomorrow...

It's just after midnight and I'm absolutely worn out and my feet are killin' me. I've only covered about a quarter of the strip so I make a decision to cover Death Valley tomorrow as planned and come back here for another night. The hotels are cheaper than L.A. anyway. If you ever come here, and you must, bring some good walking shoes. You'll need them!

Today we covered 339 miles. Not that far but in the heat it was far enough. Tomorrow we need an early start for the Valley.

Later Doodes

Part Two 27.06.2006

2006-07-09T22:25:00.000Z

From Kayenta I drop south toward the Painted Desert and Marsh Pass.

We're deep into Navajo country now.

We're heading toward Red Lake and across more expanses of the Colorado Plateau.

This is why bike tyres wear in the middle only... I gas up at Tuba City then it's a quick squirt along US 89 and close to Cameron.

Here we're onto local 64 and no you're not there yet. This thing is BIG...It's another 50 miles yet.

I tag onto a group of Harleys for the last hour. It takes my mind off my sore bum. They've all got very nice tans...sadly they've got no brains either otherwise they'd be wearing lids. Each to their own I suppose.

No you're not there yet either. This is the Little Colorado River Gorge.

Now we're close...

The queue into the park via the kiosk. I would suggest this is the best 12 bucks you'll ever spend in your life.

The pictures are taken from numerous vantage points along the South Rim road from Desert View westwards. What you see in the pictures is not cloud or mist but smoke from a fire this morning that swallowed up 20,000 acres of forest in the North Rim. Today has more than made up for some of the shit days I've had on this trip. As for me I'll be back in the morning to try and catch the sunrise when hopefully the smoke will have reduced somewhat. Enjoy.

Mileage for the day 237.

Later Doodes

Valley Of The Gods 27.06.2006

2006-07-09T18:31:00.000Z

I'm up and gone for 0630. It's going to be real hot today so I need to be careful and stay out of as much midday heat as I can. I've still got enough gas for a while so I head of toward Shiprock and the Four States Area.

I tank up in Shiprock knowing I'll have enough to get me to Mexican Hat if not farther. From here its along the plateau toward the Entrada Sandstone formations. Here's some piccies...

I travel along the plateau until I get to...

the state line with Arizona. You'll be seeing this again later.

From Teec Nos Pos I take a sharp right and head along 160 toward the 'Corners'. Are you lookin' at me...

I cross back into New Mexico for a hundred yards and I'm in Four States Corner. Body parts in each state and Mr Wiggly in the middle...

I get my banner signed on the Colorado side. Now I could get it signed on every side whilst I'm here but I'm not going to do that as I'm going to ride through each state properly.

So we leave and cross out of New Mexico and back into Arizona. Before long we're into...

Colorado.

It's still only around 1015 and it's already in the high 80's. This place is absolutely deserted.

I take a left and hit 262 toward Aneth and Bluff. I'm not quite sure how I'll get through this traffic.

and before long I come to sunny Utah.

I travel through Aneth, Montezuma and toward Bluff. I'll leave you to savour the photos...

The escarpments back away and I run along a plateau for a few miles. Then it rises slightly and through the shimmering heat haze I'm met by the most amazing sight.
Welcome to The Valley of the Gods.

I have a splash and dash at Mexican Hat (now you see how it got its name). We still haven't made Monument Valley yet.

I take a break at this place carved in the rock and wedged beside the river. I have a hot cup of tea (the world's greatest coolant) and treat myself to a Sundae. It's so big I can't get it into the viewfinder. It was yummy. A family from Wisconsin sign my banner for me.

A few miles up the road I come around the corner to see this...Monument Valley.

This has to be one of the most photographed stretches of road anywhere. It seems to be in every travel brochure and when you see it in person you realise why...it's gorgeous. Let's go find Thelma and Louise.

It's time to leave the Valley as we drop into Kayenta for gas. No photogragh can give any real scale to the beauty of this place. If you've never been here get your arse off the chair and do it. It will not dissapoint.

It's a good job my mother can't see these...and it's time for another blog page too this one's about to go bang.

Part Two on its way doodes.

Billy The Kid 26.06.2006

2006-07-09T16:56:00.000Z

It's been raining lightly during the night but I know I'm heading away from any cloud and it'll warm up real soon.

I head out on US 84 toward Santa Rosa crossing through Melrose and onto Fort Sumner finding a few interesting markers along the way.

I wouldn't normally do this but I know I'll be OK for time today so I come off the beaten path to see if I can find it.

I'm going the right way then.

It seems strange that one of the 'heroes' of the old West still has to be shackled even in death.

These townships are the home of good 'ol god fearing folk.

After gas I head off up US 80 again toward Santa Rosa where I need to get onto I-40 and up to Albuquerque.

From Santa Rosa it's a quick run of 25 minutes along 40 gassing up again in Clines Corner.

The road drops down for several miles along the valley floor until we reach the outskirts of Albuquerque.

This is the loop road around the city.
It's painted in a pastel pink colour with a light blue stripe along the outside edge of all the crash walls. It actually looks kinda nice.

We're taking the I-25 north for just a little while and escaping the city centre.

We travel only a short distance through Bernadillo and then we're onto US 550 where we'll stay for the rest of the day. This is looking back at the city and the mountain that sits alongside it.

We're now into the Zia Indian territory and skirting the edge of the Santa Fe National Forest.

They're bored here too.

...and there I was thinking I'd overpacked.

This is the last major town for quite a while so I take the opportunity to gas up and take on fluid. From here we continue north west and the road climbs further to...

So which way do I pee then???

From Cuba I travel through the tiny enclaves of Counsellors, Nageez and Huerfano Trading Post on th e way to Bloomfield. Here's a few piccies...

I get into Bloomfield and carry onto Farmington. This was going to be my original overnight stop. There's a storm brewing but I decide to head for Shiprock as I'm moving away from it and I can put another 30 miles under my belt. Big Mistake.

Despite it's size there's not one flippin' hotel there and I have to turn around back to Farmington. I'm 10 miles out and the storm hits. It's not a rainstorm though but a duststorm. I'm physically sideways trying to keep the bike upright and all the traffic is crawling along at 20 mph. I've not seen anything quite like this since I was in Morocco.

I manage to get to a hotel on the outskirts of town and call it a night. It's starting to fill up with travellers so I'm lucky to get a room. Another lesson learnt.

You can't see it from the photo but it's so windy two guys held onto the bike for me whilst I stripped the luggage off in case it went over. Mileage today 370 miles.

Well tomorrow is my day. I get to see one of the things I have always wanted to see. Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon. Can't wait. I'm off to get the dust off my bits.

Later Doodes

Is This The Way To.... 25.06.2006

2006-07-09T14:44:00.000Z

It's time to move on and after a relaxing day off we say our goodbyes and start the journey toward New Mexico. A tank of gas and we're good to go.

First through McLennan and then Bosque County where I pick up a couple of interesting markers.

After an hour I need to fill up with gas at a little town called Hico. It's getting nice and warm again.

On north- west by passing Erath, Comanche, Brownwood and Coleman.

Wonder what she did in her spare time...

Eventually I hit Abilene and we have to jump onto I-80 for about 55 miles. It's pretty uninteresting and I take the opportunity to gas up at Tye before I find my way off the freeway and onto US 84 once again. This is where disaster strikes.

I don't know quite how but my MP3 goes flying out the tankbag and disappears down the road. I turn around quicky and spend the next ten minutes looking for it. All I find is body parts. I bury them gracefully at the side of the road and carry on. I'm really brassed off now. No music for a week. Nuts.

The scenery has started to change. Gone is the woodland and greenery and it's being replaced by a flat, sandstone landscape as we travel into Snyder. There's also a sickly smell to the air too that I can't quite put my finger on, and no, it's not me. I'm in Scurry County and this gives me a clue as to what it is...

This is oil country. These things start to appear everywhere. I hazard a guess and presume the smell is crude. It not nice. It sticks to your nose and you can't get rid of the taint.
We're now travelling into the vast area known as the Staked Plains.

I'm travelling along US 84 still and tank up in Post. It's now really flat again but the weather's nice. That sapping humidity of the southern regions has gone and it makes it so much easier to travel the distances.
It doesn't take too long to get through Slaton and then we're into Lubbock, the home town of rock and roll legend Buddy Holly.

Yes this is the way to....but you're not taking it. Say goodbye.

From Lubbock we continue on US 84 through Shallowater, Anton, Littlefield and Amherst.

I tank up in Sudan and on through Muleshoe up to the stateline in Farwell. Each of the towns has enormous silos. I think some of them were for corn and bean storage. This is where I hit the 40,000 mile mark on the bike too.

From the state line it's a short blast to Clovis, NM where I call it a night. I've planned the journey for tomorrow and stopping here is ideal...and my backside hurts.

Today I done 456 miles. Texas is ENORMOUS.

Tomorrow it's off toward Albuquerque and Shiprock.

Later Doodes

Waco 24.06.2006

2006-07-06T00:33:00.000Z

Waco is a nice place. Sadly its become famous (or infamous) recently for all the wrong reasons. The city has a lot of history behind it and I am lucky enough to have someone to show me around who has lived here all their lives.

This is the home of the Texas Rangers Museum. If you ever visit Waco this place is an absolute must. There are some great exhibits, stories of past cases and of course the history of the Rangers themselves, good and bad. I spent about two hours in there and thoroughly enjoyed it. I had no idea that they had been in existence for so long. Here's a few historical details for you...

This is the suspension bridge in the middle of the city. Although it's closed to traffic now you can still walk across the Brazos River.

Here's the local tour guide pointing out more interesting facts...gotcha Pod!

there's an enormous lake on the outskirts of town surprisingly called Lake Waco. Great for the watersports crowd.

and finally did you know that the lone star state is the only state that can fly its flag at the same height as the stars and stripes...No I didn't either.

A great day out and I've eaten some strange foods too. Well when in Rome etc.....

Tomorrow it's off again in our quest to get to New Mexico.

Later Doodes

The Lone Ranger 23.06.2006

2006-07-05T20:55:00.000Z

I gas up in Sulphur and I'm away. Today I'm off to see a buddy from the 12.org site in Houston and then it's up to Waco to see my mates Pod and the Bear.

It doesn't take long to reach the state line and after fuel at Hankamer it's off toward Houston.

This is on the approach to the city. I'm meeting up at Starbucks in Downtown so the sat navs on and we'll see what it can do.

It takes me through the community of River Oaks which is obviously the home of the well healed and the sat nav does it's job and takes me straight to the coffee shop. When it works these things are pretty good.

My buddy's there and I spend half an hour with him then it's time to move on. I find my way back onto I-10 trouble is with all the roadworks I can't get off the bloody thing.

At last I'm off it. I'm now running the country roads up towards Bryan where I can get onto US 6. I tank up at Sealy and ride through Bellville and on up to Brenham. From here it's onto US 6 and through College Station up to Bryan where I gas up again.

It's a real surprise to me just how green the southern half of Texas is. Here's a few more piccies and an interesting marker relating to the slave days.

It's a pretty straight run now through Hearne and Marlin up to Waco. It's boiling hot again. Sooner or later I'm going to have to relent and take my leathers off and wear jeans. There's lots of interesting markers along the route. Unfortunately I can't get to them due to the fact US 6 is being widened. Shame really.

By the time I get to Waco the sat navs gone awol so I ring my buddy Clare and she comes to get me. I'm only a block away from the PD. They take me off for iced tea and nachos...well I was thirsty!!

350 miles today. A nice run too apart from my run in with someone in Waco centre, but I'll let that one die a natural. Tomorrow I'm under orders to take a day in Waco and when people have been good enough to put themselves out for you you don't say no. The bike needs a little TLC too...prolly won't get any though!

Later Doodes

Hot and Sticky 22.06.2006

2006-07-05T19:37:00.000Z

It's an early start again today. It's gonna be real hot and sticky out there and I want to get as close as I can to the Texas border by tonight.

From Montgomery I whizz down I-85 and then take a detour through Bay Minette on the local roads. It doesn't take me exactly where I want to go but never mind as I'm soon on I-10 heading East and a short 20 minute ride from another state on the list.

This is the local crocodile breeding ground. As you can probably tell we've lost that lush woodland that we've seen over the last week as it now becomes more marsh like.

At last. The land of the Q Tips. Apparently where most retired Americans seem to be heading whilst waiting for god. Don't worry we won't be here long.

I stop and get the banner signed at , yes you guessed it, the visitors centre.

Just how the hell did he get that backed into there??

After twenty minutes or so we're back in to Alabama and heading toward Mobile.

This is the USS Alabama just on the outskirts of the city.

...and a quick shot of the city before the road dissapears into a long tunnel. From here it's not far to the state line with...

As you can guess I found the visitors centre in Jackson County. It's beautifully done in the old colonial plantation house style and is manned by wonderful people. The banner is duly signed and I'm given an ice cold drink, prolly cuz I'm sweating like a P.I.G. I don't refuse. Then I'm ordered to eat one of their home made cookies too. It's all true I tell ya!

When you look around at the terrain here you can grasp the scale of havoc that Katrina wrought on this land. This place is billiard table smooth with no natural defenses at all. Not good.

I ride by Pascagoula, Biloxi and Gulfport where it's time for more gas.

I stop later for a break before I melt and hit on a real find. The rest area is right next to NASA's Snellis Rocket Testing base. You can take tours of the facility too. I saw this as well. I thought this was supposed to be on the moon. Waddya mean it never happened!

For you disbelievers...

Here you go, Louisiana. From here it's off to New Orleans. Now when you're on a trip like this you take the advice of the locals and your friends and work colleagues on board. New Orleans is not the place to be at the moment. I caught something on the news a few days ago and it's been confirmed to me that the National Guard are back on the city streets. The advice is don't go there and get through the state as quickly as you can. Don't stray off the beaten path.

So we say goodbye to New Orleans and head I-12 to Baton Rouge alongside Lake Ponchartrain.

This is the bridge over the Mississippi. On the other side is Port Allen where I gas up and take on fluid. It is extremely hot and humidity is a killer.

The highway is built on huge concrete supports above the bayou for mile after mile.

God only knows what's lurking under that lot.

Past Lafayette, Crowley, Jennings and more gas that takes us finally to Lake Charles. It's over the bridge and a stop for the night the other side in a small place called Sulphur. You'll understand why it's called that when you visit.

536 miles today and my backside is dead...again. I'm only about 20 minutes from the Texas border but I can go no further. Apart from a ten minute thunderstorm it's been a very productive day. Tomorrow it's Texas.

Later Doodes

I Got Georgia On My Mind 21.06.2006

2006-07-05T18:50:00.000Z

It's an early start from Mark's house. For some inexplicable reason he has a bad head. Strange that. I say my goodbyes and I'm off for a quick visit to the police academy at CMPD to meet up with my buddy Captain Hummel.

Whilst I'm there the new recruits do their patriotic duty. Very professional they looked too.

With a quick photo of Michelle it's time for us to scoot off. I'd like to take up the offer to stay but time is against me. From here it's off to South Carolina and Georgia. I tank up and we're off. It's already ten thirty and I have to get a move on to make up the mileage.

It doesn't take long to get into the state of South Carolina. I stop at the visitors centre and get the banner signed and I'm off again. Through Spartanburg, Greenville and Anderson and into the state of Georgia. Don't ask me where the picture of the state line is I think I missed it.

I stop at the Georgia visitors centre ( handy these things aren't they) and a very nice lady signs my banner. It's already in the mid 90's and she tells me with great aplomb that it's going to be a 100 today. I haven't got the heart to tell her it already is in my underwear...

I fly along I-85 again passing Commerce, Jefferson and Oakwood having to stop at Buford for gas. Then it's through to Duluth and on into the city of Atlanta.

I have nothing against Atlanta but word is I don't want to drive through there. So I look for the 285 East loop and skip the city centre completely. By now it's boiling hot and I'm riding around a six lane interstate like a starfish trying to get some col air. It doesn't work. Look everybody it's a sign for Birmingham. Yam famous!

From here it's I-85 again and and through Fayetteville and LA Grange where I fill up with yet more gas.

I cross into Alabamie and through Opelika and and Tuskegee.
I've still got some miles to cover from here before the end of the day and it's 96f so I stop for a ten minute break and take on some fluid. It gives the bike a short break too. Then it's time for a quick fill up and I get to the other side of Montgomery where I stop for the night.

A short blog I know but I had to concentrate on getting miles under my belt today. I've covered 410 miles which isn't bad considering the late start. Tomorrow apparently it's gonna be even hotter. Whoopee!

Later Doodes

Oh Carolina 20.06.2006

2006-07-05T16:50:00.000Z

Well they promised better weather today but it's still grey and overcast outside. There again it is only 0700. I load up my stuff which has now dried up nicely and I'm off. From McLean through Leesburg and toward West Virginia. I look ahead to the Allegheny Mountains and there's blue sky and it's going to be a beautiful day.

Ok I'll cough to this one. I can't remember the name of the village. I know the building was over 400 years old. Do you know where it is? Answers on a postcard please to....

Not a bad view in a morning is it? It's like this all the way to the state line where we finally hit...

Virginia and travel through Jefferson County. We're not here for long and then we're into West Virginia...I've got a picture somewhere but I can't find it. Whoops. The road is magnificent as it weaves it's way through the most delicious scenery and small townships and over the Shenandoah River.

I tank up with gas at Charlestown and call my buddy Mark in Charlotte and tell him I'm on my way. Then it's off to find I-81 for the long run into the Carolinas.

I'm minding my own business and boogying away to Dancemix 2006 when I look in the mirror just in time to see the Xmas Tree lights come on. Oh crap.

I pull over and take off my lid, gloves, and sit and wait. Two State Troopers walk over to me. These guys are prisitine. I mean you could cause yourself serious bodily injury if you came into contact with the creases in their uniforms. They tell me I was going a tad over the speed limit (caught slowing down huh) and they ask for my licence and title. You can tell from the face of the younger officer he has no idea what he's looking at when I give him my licence. Hell, I've been looking at them for 27 years and still can't figure them out!

They ask me about the trip, shake my hand and wish me a safe journey. Top blokes. I'm gone. Never one to look a gift horse in the mouth I'm wary for the rest of the day. Comes in handy later.

Before long we're back into Virginia. This is an area steeped in history. There are numeorus battlegrounds nestled in the Shenandoah Mountains and Valleys unfortunately I have no time to explore. Jamestown is the home of the first permanent English speaking settlement in the US and celebrates 400 years of existence next year. Now that will be a 4th July party to go to. This area is well worth another visit.

For an Interstate it's a pretty one. I really do want to take the Skyline Driveway scenic route but I know I'll just sit and gawp at the scenery all day and arrive in Charlotte late. The road climbs up an down into beautiful valleys of green woodland for mile after mile. Here's a few piccies...

Most of these are taken on the go so they might be a bit fuzzy...

Via Timberville, Harrisonburg, Bridgewater and Staunton we're making good time and the weather is piping hot.

The road is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachians. Through Buchanan and via Salem, Roanaoke and Christiansburg until I finally need to leave the route.

We need to go South along I-77 and drop down out of the mountains.

The road drops sharply for several miles and this is the view that greets you. Absolutely magnificent.

It's about 170 miles now to Charlotte and time for more fuel. I tag onto a red Mercury that's travelling in the left hand lane. I sit right lane about 30 yds behind. If there's a radar close he'll break it first. He doesn't move for miles. He may as well have a target on his back.

I sit and wait and sure enough in my mirror comes the silver streak. Nice and quiet, no fuss. He sits in behind and it takes the dummy driving the Mercury three miles to see him and the troopers so close he could almost touch him. Your'e busted. It's lights, action and pull over mate. I'm not quite sure if he wants me as well so I glide by. He gives me a look, a wave and a smile. We'll call that a draw for today then.

As I drop into the city limits of Charlotte it's rush hour. This is for Mike and Darrell. The Queen city says Hi. Don't worry guys I'll not be drinking on my own tonight and I'll raise a glass for you both...HA!

I arrive at Mark and Debs house in about twenty minutes. There's guys from the 12.org site there too. I get greeted with a handshake and a cold beer (in fact several). After a shower it's chow time and Deb has brought some goodies to nibble on before we venture out later. They're putting me up for the night too which is real kind of them. More beer...why thank you very much! After all I am only here once.

Mileage today was 480 miles. Ouch.

Later Doodes

D.C Or Bust 19.06.2006

2006-07-04T00:14:00.000Z

These people represent everything that's good about this country. Kindness, warmth, generosity and above all friendship. I've known them less than 24 hours yet I feel like I've known them all my life. They will remain my good friends...always.

I load up the bike and Brian takes me into town to the local diner for breakfast. Yum! Sadly though I have to move on. He guides me onto Merritt and then peels off to go visit his family. I'm on my own now.

I carry on along the Hutch ( I know I've been here too long haven't I) and toward the George Washington Bridge. I know to keep the Hudson on my right and I cross over the East River and the lady at the toll booth confirms I'm going the right way.

The bridge appears from behind the tree lined parkway. You really can't get a better picture from here, unless of course you want to end up as roadkill

This is the entrance to the bridge. I choose the top deck so I can get a picture. It's a rush being able to stand and travel on this great icon of NYC. I can feel the bridge breathing underneath me as I'm standing taking this, moving and swaying under the constant traffic. There are warnign signs prohibiting photos from the bridge span itself so I respect them and put the camera away.

It's a suprisingly easy route to get off the bridge and on to I- 95 south and we're away. It's too busy to take piccies as we head through New Jersey and I gas up again. A young attendant at the station signs my banner for me and I lose some of the internals from my new lid. Crap. Never mind. By now its in the 90's and I need to get a move on.

I run along I- 95 until I come to the state line with Pennsylvania. I'm under strict orders to visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell...and no I didn't know what it was. I come off I-95 onto 90 West and over Bettys Bridge in to Philly. You can't see it in the piccies but it's now roasting hot with 90% humidity.

In the centre of the city there is a small enclave of older buildings They're packed with tourists and I can't get to most of them. Parking is a major pain

This is Independence Hall. In around 11 years two major events took place here that changed the world as we know it and shaped the fledgling American democracy. They were the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. Pretty cool all round. I'd like to visit again sometime.

This is the Liberty Bell. It has an interesting story to it but it'll take to long to include it here. You will be tested on my return.

Is this the best name for a fire tender ever...

This is a view of Philly on the way out and a few more besides. It was just too damned hot to take any more.

If you look close that is an old London sightseeing bus in the background.

It's back onto I-95 again and into Delaware. It's a real small state and we're in and out in a flash, with signature of course.

After the toll station it's goodbye to Delaware and hello to Maryland. What is doesn't say is prepare to get sodden.

It throws it down all the way to DC. I'm now counting the seconds between the lightning and the thunderstorm. Just one second. The lightning is now trying to attach itself to my helmet. It takes what seems an age but I finally get through Silver Springs and into Washington D.C.

This is either the reflection of the flash in the rain or a reflection of my natural radiance. Be like that then.

As I approach the centre along the Parkway the rain has turned into a biblical flood. There are rivers flowing along the gutter and it's like riding the Mississsippi mud flats. The Parkway is a million dollar road and there's no hidey hole for me to take shelter in. No Mc, BK, Wendys etc....zilch. Snobs. Like they don't eat it right???

I get somewhere near the centre. I had hoped to take a couple of shots but it's now so dark there's little point. If you don't know what the White House looks like it's time to give over. Traffic was gridlocked so it's time to get the hell out.

There's a brief respite in the weather so I grab a bloke off the sidewalk who's walking his dog. He asks me to hold his cigarette whilst he signs the banner. I gesture to the dog but he's having non of it. Obviously a non smoker.

It starts to piss down again and I've had enough and I join the crawl out of D.C.

16, yes 16 lanes of stationary traffic I'm now wetter on the inside than Shamu on the outside. The bike is entering meltdown phase and if I'm not out fast I'll be riding a mimi moto. Eventually we get away and hit gridlock again in McLean.

I decide to call it again. It's the shame the weather this afternoon spoilt the last part of the day. Tomorrow looks better. I'm now off to put all my riding kit, including myself, into the dryer. It's the end of week 2 and I'll give you a recap and milage check on the next blog.

Later Doodes.

Welcome To The Jungle

2006-06-26T02:28:00.000Z

The sun is out and it's going to be a beautiful day. After breakfast Brian and I jump in the convertible and it's off to NYC we go. He takes me off I-95 and shows me a better route into the city for my journey tomorrow down the parkway. It's a lovely stretch of road that winds its way through woodland. I really didn't think it would be so green so close to the conurbation.

What d'ya expect I was going fast...

Before we hit the sights Bri has a treat in store for me. He was a cop for 17 years working in the Bronx so he takes me on a little tour.
Welcome to Fort Apache:The Bronx. Remember the film with Paul Newman. This is where it was shot. They used the original police station too but sadly it is now condemned due to its age and they have moved the Precinct into a new station house.

Nice place this...not.

We leave his buddies at the precinct and start to make our way into the city.

This is taken from the East River Drive.

Being here is a rush. I was like a kid in a candy shop. Everything that's been said or written about the Big Apple is probably true and I was hanging out the car like a complete pillock takin' photos of anything and everything. The sights and sounds of this place are incredible. Here's a few piccies....

So turn it round yourself!!!!

If my memory serves me right this is St Patricks. I'm sure that I've read that since the tragedy of 9/11 a member of the surrounding precinct visits every day for the blessing, no matter what their denomination, and carries that blessing back to their work colleagues.

This is the first view I get of Times Square.

In the distance is the old lady herself.

This thing is soooooo tall you really can't get a better picture of it from the ground.

My all time favourite the Chrysler Building. It absolutely glistens in the afternoon sun.

Here's a view of the city from the approach to the Brooklyn Bridge.

Unfortunately I don't get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty due to the construction work that's taking place. I'll come back again for that one.

We arrive at the site of 9/11 and park close by under the watchful eye of one of our NYPD colleagues. I know this is a difficult time for my buddy. He spent many months as part of the rescue teams that cleared this site. I know he lost family, friends and work colleagues here on that fateful day. I have always wanted to pay my respects here and I do so.

When you see this area on TV there is simply no perspective of how large an area it covers. It's around 10 city streets square. I simply can't comprehend what happened here, even now. What really pisses me offis the tourists who stand there having there picture taken against the backdrop. This is a mass grave. I really do want to smack them where it hurts. They're beginning to make my blood boil and I have to leave. Tossers.

This is the Intrepid. A day out in itself with every type of aircraft on board. If this is your bag well worth a visit. There's lots more piccies but it's just too slow trying to load them up on the blog.

As I leave the city I make myself a promise to return...soon. From here we head back to Connecticut and to a neighbours house where I'm invited in and enjoy the pool, some beer and some crackin' ribs. An absolutely brilliant day.

Later Doodes

Back To The Future 17.06.2006

2006-06-24T19:57:00.000Z

The sun is trying to break through as I gas up and head out of Keene. She's been parked next top this monstrosity all night but fortunately I don't think it'll cause any permanent mental scarring! This area of New Hampshire is just too pretty to ride through quickly. On top of that the roads are narrow and heavily patrolled this morning by the PD.

...although it's still a little cloudy outside the lakes and woodland still look stunning.

This is the small village of Dublin and then we move onto Peterborough. I leave the main road and decide to head into the village for a nose around. I wasn't disappointed.

Still wanna retire in Cannock? These homes are divine. They are half the price of those at home and that's in US$...

Hey howdya get up there cow?

We was smokin' a joint....

Sweeeeeeeeet!

I head on up toward Manchester through the town of Milford. All the kids are out in the square doing a car wash for Fathers Day weekend. For some strange reason they don't offer to wash my filthy bike. Who says kids today are stoopid?

It doesn't take too long to get to the outskirts of Manchester where we jump onto 101 for our journey into Maine via Exeter and Hampton.

Over the Piscataqua Bridge which is the border line between Maine and New Hampshire. The state line is marked by the sign in the right hand side of the picture under the bridge steelwork.

This is Kittery, Maine. The road ends a little further on where it comes to the entrance to the US Naval Sea Command Base. This is it for us. I've come as far north as my trip will take me and from here it's all southbound. I stop to gas up and come to the first roundabout I've seen since I came to the States. Weird huh? From here I now have to travel back into New Hampshire.

I would have liked to have visited Portsmouth. Like its name suggests it is a historical shipyard and still has a large naval presence. There's an abundance of historical markers but no time to see them. Here's a few quick snaps from the bridge on the way out.

I have to move on. It's not long before I hit the state line with Massachusetts. By now the temperature is in the high 80's and the roads are full of people heading to the beach. I stop at a local rest area for gas and fluid and a family sign my banner for me. I'm about 3 miles from Boston. I was hoping the loop would take us close to the city for some piccies but unfortunately the road spins away west and I saw nothing of it.

I hit the Rhode Island state line and look for the visitors centre. It's marked at the next exit and I follow the signs. However the building it directs me to is not the centre but an old folks home. I meet the lovely Rose in the car park who must be in her 80's. She's so excited when I explain to her what I'm doing and she signs my banner for me. Bless her. She was an absolute star.

I look for gas a little further down I- 95 and come off at the next exit. I knew it was a mistake when I saw the weeds growing in the concrete. It doesn't take long to realise I don't really want to be in this 'hood so it's no stoppie red lights and I get my bearings and leave pronto. Lesson learnt. Everybody's heading for the Cape beaches but I have to stick to 95.

I skirt by Pawtucket, Providence, Cranston and fill up again at Warwick. I'm now only about an hour away from my stop for tonight with Brian and Dee in Connecticut. It's mostly two lanes from here and the road is bordered by beautiful woodland. I follow a gorgeous AC Cobra and try to take a picture on the move of it's licence tag VENMUS but it doesn't come out to well. It's also gone very, very dark outside and rain is most definately on it's way.

I've only got ten minutes left to go and it starts. Luckily it's only a few drops and I get to Clinton unscathed. I fill up and go look for the house. I haven't realised it but I've passed it and then there's a horn blaring away behind me. I pull over and it's one of the neighbours who guides me back. It's an absolutely divine home. My wife would go potty for it. I won't put any pictures on the blog though . It's important to respect peoples privacy especially when they've been good enough to put me up for the night. Suffice to say I wouldn't mind it if it was mine!

After a tremendous welcome I down a few beers (well it's hot!) and I go get a shower. I come down to find Brian washing half of Montana off the bike, and he then proceeds to adjust chain, change the oil and filter and remove and replace the front brake pads. All this and I only met him for the first time half an hour ago. Now that's what you call a welcome!

Afterwards we run into town for a delicious Thai meal where I'm beaten into submission and agree to take the Sunday off. To be honest I'm ready for a break after 12 days in the saddle so it'll give me chance to recuperate.

Only 300 miles today but with heavy traffic it wasn't so bad. Tomorrow I'm in for a treat. I'm goin' to the Big Apple.

Later Doodes

Ocean's Ahead 16.06.2006

2006-06-22T04:39:00.000Z

I'm up early as today will be a long one. It's not so much the distance its the fact that we're now heading into the most populous area of the US and traffic will undoubtedly determine how far we can go each day.

I know, I said I'd wash her off. I lied. I'll do it tonight. After a chat with Sam Adams I was to happy to ride safely...well ya wouldn't want me falling off now would ya...

.
Before I leave here's a few more images of Lock Haven I thought you'd like..

It's a steady climb out of the valley back onto I-84 with beautiful views in the early morning sunshine. Through Williamsport, Danville and Bloomsburg to Nuangola where I stop for gas and fluid. From there we take a detour onto I-81 through Wilkes Barre and then onto I- 84 toward New York State with views of the Pocono Mts.

Nice here it is...

After travelling through Milford and Fort Jervis we come to the state line with New York. People sometimes assume that New York City is New York state. It's not. The state itself is enormous running back west all the way to Niagra.

These were taken a few miles inside the state line.

I carry on along I-84 and take a tank of gas at Montgomery. Here I see my very first sign for the Big Apple. 349 miles. Sadly though it'll have to wait as I've got another few states to do just yet.

This is the bridge over the Hudson River which runs from the Canadian border straight to New York City.

This is the old bell that used to guide the ferries across the river prior to the bridge being built.

Connecticut is full of English town names, Milford, Derby, Meriden, Bristol, the list goes on and on. You'll also be pleased to know the traffic is just the same. I have this annoying habit of being able to hit urban areas bang on rush hour and Hartford is no exception. I couldn't even get a photo.
It's getting hot and the bike is beginning to run on full heat. I need to get out of here. We ride through countless sets of roadworks and backlog. American drivers do not like you filtering in the lanes. They sit there hootin' and hollerin'. The PD are out in force as well as the state troopers. It takes an age but we soon leave the state.

I come somewhat off the beaten track to find this one and to cool the bike down a little. This is a little place called Longmeadow. Seems nice enough.

I crack on through Massachusetts via Springfield , Northampton and Greenfield. It's real busy with traffic and I'd forgotten it's Friday afternoon and fathers day this weekend too. Every body wants out. After an age I get to the Vermont border.

I get to the visitors centre and they oblige with a signature on the banner. The lady grabs me whilst I'm takin a photo and next minute I'm in one. They are really very pleasant people here.

This is for everyone at work who seems to think that I'm at home watching Trish... or should that be Trash.

From the state line I ride up to Brattleboro and then take local 9 through the most gorgeous scenery until I get to my next state. It doesn't take long.

A bit like my backside then...

Over the bridge and I'm in Keene where I crash for the night. It's been a long day but I'm not quite sure of the mileage. I'll update that shortly.
If you ever decide to come up this way bring a tent or lots of cash...it's bloomin' expensive!

Mileage 435...

Later Doodes

Pennsylvania 65000 15.06.2006

2006-06-22T02:34:00.000Z

It’s bright and early and time to go. Here’s everything you ever needed to know about Wapakoneta and were afraid to ask. I’ve been here ten hours and still can’t pronounce it.
I take I-75 north toward Toledo and the state line with Michigan.

This is Findlay self proclaimed Flag City, USA. It's like the 4th July every day.
You gotta admit it, it looks damned impressive. You should see it up close it’s massive.

Over the Blanchard River, passing Bowling Green, in the direction of Detroit. It’s not the most mesmerising of freeways but we get to Toledo pretty quick and then have fun trying to find the state line.

Cos we’re off the beaten track a little there’s no state signs, but this is Temperance, Michigan. After gas and the banner signing by the delightfully named Autumn LaPlante ( how cool is that name) I’m off again trying to find the connector to I-75.

Unfortunately the road we want to take is closed and the diversion signs are crap. The sat nav is screaming for me to do a U-turn and go down the closed route. I beat it severely about the head and turn it off. After 15 minutes I finally get out of Michigan and take the Ohio Turnpike east. I know that’ll take me toward Pennsylvania.

What this is supposed to say is Ohio Welcomes You. What it actually says is don’t give up your day job Smithy.

I stick with I-80 east and plough through Pennsylvania via Sandusky, Norwalk, Elyria and gassing up at Warren. If anyone wants to know what I want for Xmas I want one of these. This picture does no justice to these wheels. This thing was about 7 half feet off the floor with a power station chimney as an exhaust. It came past me at 90 with a trailer! The noise was incredible. It sounded like it had come straight from the bowels of hell itself. I want one…now.

I start to work my way across the Allegheny Plateau. This state is really worth a visit for it’s outstanding woodland. The Allegheny Mountains can be seen in the distance.

I would have shown you some more pictures but the battery went flat. Yes I know I should have put them on charge…whatever. I continue after more gas skirting Brookville and St Petersburg and onto Du Bois. I was going to tell you all about Du Bois but I’ve forgotten it all. Tough.

With the Bald Eagle Mountains on my right I pass by Bellefonte and then start to look for a hotel for the night…..I take a chance on the next exit to Lock Haven and I’m even luckier to find a decent hotel smack bang in the middle of town.

I charge the camera up quick and take a few piccies because I’ve been a very bad boy letting it go flat. I know, I should be ashamed of a bike this filthy shouldn’t I.

That was a brand new gold chain last week. Nothing deserves to be that dirty. I shall go and wash her immediately.

This is the view of the Bald Eagle Mts from the car park. It’s a two minute walk to the main street. What a place. It’s like Pleasantville without Reese Witherspoon. Like going back to a different era. I'm sure it must have it's seedier side but I couldn't find it...and I looked really hard too!

...and this is where I had my tea. It was very nice too. The entire fire brigade were in there having theirs. I'll tell you all about them when I get back.

Well 484 miles today so not bad. Tomorrows a big day travelling through New York State, Connecticut, Vermont and New Hampshire. So it’s off to bed. Nite nite.

Later Doodes

Americana 14.06.2006

2006-06-19T01:44:00.000Z

We're out the door by 0730 and with Mike, who's brought his 12r too, we head off to meet up again with Gary on I-65 at the Cracker Barrel. I've rushed around since I got here and this is my ninth morning on the bike so I'm gonna take it a little easier today.

After a hearty breakfast, and no I don't like grits, we tank up for gas which is paid for after much argument by my two buddies we ride along until we get to...

Kentucky. The home of a delightful number of distilleries.

We stop at the Corvette Museum. As American as apple pie.

If your'e a real fan you can have your name inscribed onto the pavers...for a price I'm sure.

From the museum we leave Gary as he shoots off back home and I lose Mike a few miles further up the road. They have not allowed me to spend a single dollar whilst I've been in Nashville, even paying for my gas before they split today. I've never met these guys in my life before but this is the comaraderie that exists within the motorcyling world especially within 12r.org. I'm very lucky to have such people to rely on during my trip here and lucky to count them as my friends.

From the Bowling Green I make my way along the edge of the Mammoth Cave National Park until I need more gas which I get at...

Elizabethtown. This one's for you Lizzie.

From here I need to head towards Louisville so that I can cross into Indiana. It takes about an hour to get there. It's not easy in these cities trying to find the state lines but I know it'll be somewhere near to the river.

Where there's a river there's a bridge and there's normally a sign somewhere nearby.

Told ya.

I get the banner signed at the Visitors Centre and one last shot of Louisville. By now I'm basting nicely and the bike's not too chuffed about it either so it's time to go.

I now head north onto I-71 heading for the city of Cincinnati. This is a city of a million people. I do not want to get stuck in that lot.

This is the approach into the city and the next few shots are taken as we get closer. I'm gettin' pretty good with these upsidedown shots...you figure it out. Trigger fingers still a bit itchy though.

It got a bit scary after this and I sat in gridlock for 30 minutes, simmering gently. After escape it was time for a quick blast up I-75 through Dayton, Troy, Piqua and finally coming to the historic town of Wapakoneta.

Yes it's historic. Why's it historic I asked. The lady said with pride 'it's the town Neil Armstrong was born in'. It's beeen an easier day mileage wise at 405 miles. I've got plenty in the bank so I'm not too concerned. The heat was incessant and the same is forecast tomorrow. I'm not complaining though...not after the Plains anyway.

Later Doodes

Walking In Memphis 13.06.2006

2006-06-19T00:30:00.000Z

I'm up bright and early and leave Bentonville. Today's destination is Nashville Tennessee where I'll be meeting up with a couple of buddies from the 12r.org for a night out. No time for messing about off the beaten track it's I-40 all the way.

I travel for a couple of hours with the Boston Mountains as my companion. Here's a couple of pictures...

I hit Clarkesville for gas and on past Lake Dardenelle, Russellville and Conway.

We head east as I- 40 splits. Originally Fort Smith was a destination on the tour however our detour into Kansas and Oklahoma yesterday negated the need for us to travel that far south. More time saved.

Like a number of other cities before it Little Rock is a nightmare with major roadworks throughout the centre and freeway. No emergency lanes mean no piccies...sorry. It was also blazing hot and traffic was real busy too. Bill and Chelsea are out for the day so I decide not to call in anyway.

I manage to get out of the city and stop at Lonoke for gas. I'm joined by a couple of guys on cruisers and one on a Gixxr all from the town of Stuttgart, AK. They come over to talk to me as I take a five minute break and can't believe what I'm attempting, especially on a 12r. They wish me luck, shake my hand and I'm off again. Now we're heading for Memphis.

The scenery continues lush and green and it's a pretty uneventful journey until we come to...

Memphis...why thankya very much.

This is the state line over the Mississippi. I know it say Arkansas on the sign but trust me it says welcome to Tennessee on the other. It also says no emergency lane and feel free to take photographs and become todays roadkill.

This is a shot of downtown Memphis and it's the only one your gonna get. The freeway was a nightmare. No emergency lanes, static traffic and roadworks everywhere. I couldn't wait to leave. How Elvis ever left the building is beyond me.

After cooking nicely at a steady 95f I finally get out and stop for gas. It's another 2-3 hours to Nashville so it's time to crack on. Up I-40 through Brownsville, Jackson and through the Natchez Trace State Park and another tank of gas. After what seems an age I finally arrive at Nashville and the sat nav takes me to the hotel door to be met by Mike and Gary. I'm bushed. 555 miles in real difficult heat but I made it.

After a quick shower it's time for a meal at the Big River Grill, more cold beer and then a couple of hours at the B.B.King club to watch a blues band. Magic stuff. Here's a couple of shots of Nashville. The others were rubbish. Don't blame me it was the cold pints of Steamer!

Later Doodes