Beyond today...

Hey, if I stand on a binder I can see departure day from my desk!!!!!!

Soon.....really soon

Virtually all the prep is done. Tires, tune ups, oil changes are done (almost). I feel like I can't wait but it's only 6 days away now. Even though I've planned this to excess, I am still coming across ideas for things to do and places to see. If things work out I'd really like to make a run to Skagway and perhaps the ferry to Haines and north back up to the Alaska highway. It looks like we'll have plenty of time to make it to Valdez for our reserved ferry ride on July 24th.

This time next week we should have some entries from the road with some photos too......Yay!!

Three weeks and counting.....

It is indeed geeting close. My ride to B.C. was fantastic and the bike worked perfectly. I learned a few tips regarding travelling light and got a feel for the new handlebars. I got the windshield working right so I don't have to use the big parachute Givi windscreen. A new rear tire is on order. Can't wait!!!

Weather link for Alask and Region

http://www.arh.noaa.gov/

Hope this works. Just something to consider on a daily basis as we get closer to "Mush!"

It's getting closer. I can Feel it.

So, the children have graduated; the computer system rebuilt; all birthdays celebrated, and the grass has been cut. It's time to change my focus to our upcoming trip.
After a good deal of research I have found the best gear for this trip at Mountain Co-op on 124th street. A girl named Karen was a HUGE help. I have a list of exactly what I will be purchasing.
I still need a new front tire for my bike. I'm going to add lowers, but I'm uncertain (still) as to whether or not I should put on a shield. I've ridden for 25 years without.
I've decided to travel Ultra-light for this trip.
Tent
Bag
1 pot
burner
1 change of clothes
hatchet
tools
rain gear
xtra fuel cell
oil
water/fluid
usual small stuff like matches/pens, rag etc.
I'll completly refine the list as I go. I usually end up carrying far more than I ever need or use. Hopefully I'll get it all "just right"

Have fun on your Shake-down, Dave!

About time for an update

Well, its 2 months from departure and I just can't wait. The bike is getting close to it's final Alaskan form. I have installed new handlebars, another 12v socket, a windshield bracket, a new front tire, and an audio amplifier. Really the only thing left is a quality top box to carry my laptop in.

This upcoming weekend will be a trial run for the complete set up. I intend to load the bike with as close to the Alaskan load as possible to see how it packs and rides with the weight. It will also give me a chance to try all the camping gear I have accumulated (thanks brother Q).

My plan is to ride 1400 km over 2 days....should be a good shakedown.

Stay tuned

Chain woes

Yesterday I went about changing my front sprocket to a bigger 16 tooth one. Alas... I discovered it is pretty worn and need to change the chain and the rear sprocket too.

Not a really big deal but better now than on the highway to Alaska!